Irene, remember one of the Cruises we went on with Cunard. We made really good friends with 2 girls at our Table, Carole and Rachael, who worked at the English School in Hong Kong. They told us that they were really big fans of Coronation Street ... and they followed it in Hong Kong. Quite soon the excitement level rose as it became clear that Jean Alexander was on board. She was a lovely Lady and made the Cruise even better. We had a great time chatting to Carole and Rachael about Hong Kong and we met them the following year in Durham. Xxxx

Another excellent night we had Irene was when we went to see Hall and Oates at the City Hall in May, 2005. They didn’t let us down playing: One on One; She’s Gone; Maneater; Out of Touch, and many other favourites. Our friends Peter and Diane were about 5 rows ahead of us. An enjoyable time for everyone. Xxxx

It was really emotional when we went to Ground Zero in New York, Irene. We had a great time all round New York .... even seeing a Shop from Seinfeld! We enjoyed the shopping and the boat trip. However, that time we had at Ground Zero was very sobering. Xxxx

All those times we stayed with Rob and Fran when we were in Oxford. It was great to see Ella and Rowan. We always had a great time. It was the same when they came to see us in Newcastle. Such a lovely family. Xxxx

We used to really like having dinner on our many cruises. Most of the time we were able to sit at a good table near a window. Irene, we used to love watching the sun go down over the sea in a relaxed atmosphere. Magical. Xxx

You also organised a Conference at Slaley Hall, Irene. You had to make sure that everything would go smoothly. You were offered the best room as part of the deal! You couldn’t turn it down. Once again you managed to plan everything to perfection.... everyone enjoyed the Conference .... and your colleagues thought you had done a really good job. Xxxx