18 members from Newcastle and Durham enjoyed a trip to York on 3rd January. The first port of call was the National Railway Museum where York’s giant wheel, the Yorkshire Eye was the main attraction. Ric Flower promised not to rock the pods while everyone enjoyed a bird’s eye view of the Minster and the historic centre of York. It was all too much for some though and Flick Randell became very disorientated and thought we were taking a different route on the second rotation. Luckily, Gabi Clark was on hand to explain the circular nature of wheels.

Next a short walk into the shops, although this was too dull for Kat Fellows, Moira Quinn and Sophie Garman who travelled in style on the road train instead. After admiring the views of York Minster, which Ollie Clark and Lucy Humphreys were astounded by (see photo!), everyone set off to peruse the January sales. Star buys included Adam Hall’s striking union jack pyjamas (to be showcased at the Easter party) and Sam Key’s pound shop gloves at 50p.


A little rain began to fall but couldn’t spoil the occasion. With darkness falling and the trees beginning to twinkle, the group gathered in front of a castle where an ice rink had been placed, to test their skills on blades. The rain added even more excitement with extra slippery skating. Alex Clark won the award for most spectacular fall yet graceful recovery, and Phil Stubley was the clear leader in the newcomer awards giving a stunning performance despite it being his first time on the ice.

The group had worked up a serious appetite and so Pizza Express was our next stop. Pat Keys advised us on the menu using his pizza restaurant experience and Nick Hall was the ultimate gentleman giving up his “Chocolate Glory” when there were only 5 left for 6 diners.

Yet, all good things must come to an end, and so 18 day trippers collapsed onto the train, exhausted, but some still had a little energy with Laura Collingwood, Kat Huscroft, and Rachel Watts not too tired to indulge in a some beautiful face painting to pass the homeward journey.

Chris Vernazza