A full-on day in Newcastle

Arrived in the city at 0920, so easy to park.

Mooched around the Quayside and shot pictures of the bridge into the sun.

Wandered in town as the streets became busier and busier - shoppers and football supporters. "Are you going to win?", I asked one young boy. "Yes" he said with convition. (Sorry that didn't happen for him.)

Saw small but vocal demonstation against the use of trapping, live skinning and use of animal fur for clothes.  People still went into the shop. Posters were awful.

Ventured into Apple shop to report on low battery life of phone. Had to return after an hour. The place was heaving and there were loads of assistants. Nice young woman ran diagnostic tests, pronounced battery OK and wiped phone so I could start again. I still have to charge it once a day to expect it to work! (There seemed to be a few people near me complaining about the batteries.)

Queued to see Fenwick's window - a very traditional activity. The queue was long but people waited patiently. I was alongside twin boys aged 4. They waved at the Beatrix Potter characters and were full of wonder. See extra for the best way to see the windows.

A band played, buskers busked, jugglers juggled and it was a very jolly sort of atmosphere in the centre of the city.

I wish that so many people did not smoke though.

Met Julie in Side Gallery to see Childhoods 1977 -2016. It's a wonderful exhibition with contributions from around the world. Children and where they sleep was probably my favourite set.

Then to the Library to hear Charlie Hardwick interviewed as part of the Books on Tyne book festival. Charlie was one of Julie's pupils in her art class in the middle school, back in the day. Charlie didn't know that Julie was there, but told a story about what a wonderful teacher she was. Afterwards she was happy to pose for photos. I've seen Charlie in lots of plays in the north east; you may recognise her from Ennerdale, where she played Val.  There is not time to tell you all she said, but it was fascinating and inspiring.  Her Mam was in the front row of the audience.

Outside the library we heard drums and whistles. It was a march organised by the Samosa Sisters to support the right of women to walk in the streets without fear of being attacked. (NB Kendall - I said I never see demonstrations!). We joined in for a while then went to find food.

Wagamama in Old Eldon Square was new to us and we raised the average age a little! The food was excellent and service was good.

By the time I drove home I was too tired to blip, but what a day of rich experiences.

PS If anyone has the energy, here is a link to a Flickr album from the day.