Brass and banners

I've been to the market again today at Stoneleigh Park (I do like it over there), but I didn't buy anything, however, my dad did buy 4 new chickens and they are settling in well. The girls are also laying eggs like they are going out of fashion and I have had a basket outside the front of the house with a little honesty box for people to leave their money!

I expect to be baking in the next couple of days so I will have some recipes to share, I haven't decided what to bake yet but I can guarantee that it will be very tasty. I made a simple tea tonight of plaice, peas and potatoes, the potatoes were fresh out of the ground and let me tell you they were delicious! As it was a nice evening we were able to eat outside again which was a bonus, I have a feeling that will be the last time this week though as the weather looks quite unsettled for the rest of the week.

We are having a quick trip to David's home town of Durham City at the weekend for the 127th Durham Miners' Gala (also known as The Durham Big Meeting), it's a wonderful occasion, very colourful, and full of nostalgia - lets hope we get a nice day as we are really looking forward to it.

I've posted a link to a story about the Gala that appeared on the BBC website today, and also a couple of photos from the Gala in 2005 (which is the last one I went to).

Chilean miners will visit 127th Durham Miners' Gala

Me in front of the Trimdon Grange Colliery banner

The Lumley 6th pit Lodge banner marches through the Market Place

The brass bands and colourful banners are quite a spectacle and if you have an interest in the mining industry then you should definitely visit Durham for the Gala, and why not go and see Billy Elliot the musical as well next time you are in London, you'll love it!

Cindy xx