Spring is in the air

Today was a non-walking day for me. I'm leading walks on Monday and Tuesday, so I thought I'd be on the safe side and have a rest today.

The weather was gorgeous and I felt fit, so I went to Hexham to walk the route of the Singing Walk for Friday. The world and his wife were out. There were families, couples, dog walkers (lots of them), children in the playgrounds, young people "hanging out", golfers, footballers and a stray photographer.

I loved the way this tiny dachshund was trotting between its owners. Very cute.

This afternoon I've been to see a preview of the film Lady Macbeth in Hexham. William Oldroyd, the director, decided to adapt Nikolai Leskov's novella "Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk for the screen. A 19th century young bride is sold into marriage to a middle-aged man.

The film is beautifully shot in County Durham and Northumberland. It allows plenty of time for the audience to think about what is happening and to gradually develop reactions. Fascinating stuff.

There was a Q & A afterwards with the director. The main interviewer hogged the question time herself which was a shame. That's a minor criticism.

So all that remains is Line of Duty  followed by an early night and an early start tomorrow for the West Hall Circular. Can't wait.