Andy Mitchell

  A wonderful visit to Whorlton Bridge in Teesdale a few weeks ago. Recently reopened after extensive repairs, the bridge has once again made it possible to cross the River Tees here after a long period of closure. Set against the stunning Teesdale countryside, it remains a real hidden gem and a fantastic place to enjoy fresh air, local history, and beautiful views. Of course, after waiting so long for it to reopen, it seemed only right to test it out. I'm pleased to report that both the bridge and my nerve held up remarkably well, although one may have been wobbling slightly more than the other!

The Brusselton Incline in County Durham was part of the original Stockton & Darlington Railway, the world's first public railway to use steam locomotives. Opened in 1825, it used a stationary steam engine and ropes to haul wagons over the hill, helping move coal from the Durham coalfield to the Tees. It carried both freight and passengers before closing in 1858. Today, parts of the route, stone sleepers and the former engine house still survive, making it one of the most important railway heritage sites in the area. And, because even Durham hills don't give anything away for free, the railway needed ropes and a steam engine just to get over the top. 😄

"The Original World Cup" Statue by Nigel Boonham in West Auckland County Durham is the sort of place where the hills look you dead in the eye and say, “Aye, we’ve seen worse,” before immediately pelting you with sideways rain, sunshine, hail, and a rainbow, all before you’ve finished your cuppa. It’s a county built on perseverance, grit, and the occasional moment of “Wait… seriously?” One example of grit that deserves its own statue made of pure determination? West Auckland winning the Lipton Trophy. Twice. This mighty tale begins beside the River Gaunless, a name that literally means “hopeless,” as if the Vikings took one look, shrugged, and said, “Aye, good luck with that, pet.” It’s the sort of name that sounds like it should come with a leaflet and a support hotline. And yet, right next to this allegedly hopeless river, something spectacular happened. West Auckland, a village with enough heart and humour to make even the Gaunless reconsider its name, sent out a football t...