The last six A4 steam locomotives at Shildon

Week 8  National Railway Museum, Shildon

I was fortunate in that a friend of mine invited me along to a 'private viewing' of the last remaining A4 streamlined locomotives in the world. Three were in light steam and were floodlit. Private - being us and over 100 others, so it was difficult to take a reasonable picture of all six! This was the best I could do without other people in shot.

For those interested, they are from left to right; 'Union of South Africa'; 'Dwight D. Eisenhower' (on loan from America); 'Bittern'; 'Dominion of Canada' (on loan from Canada); 'Mallard' (worlds fastest steam locomotive); and 'Sir Nigel Gresley'.

The Keep, Scarborough Castle

Week 7 Scarborough Castle

Taken on the last day of week 7 (must do better). It must be nearly 30 years since I last visited Scarborough Castle! Being born in the town and leaving aged 16, it is the iconic image that I remember almost daily, growing up. The western side (the crumbling side facing) is the image I carry with me when anyone mentions the castle (albeit only the top half sticks up above the curtain wall). What I had forgotten was the near perfect and beautiful architecture of the southern face (visible in image). A fantastic castle with great 360 degree views on a clear day.

Aconites & snowdrops at Great Givendale Church

Week 6 Great Givendale Church

Great Givendale Church is dedicated to St. Ethelburga. She was married to Edwin King of Northumbria. Part of the church is 12th Century, but it was re-built in 1849 and is now a grade 2 listed building and still used for services. In spring there is a fine display of snowdrops and aconites, so my intention this week was to take full advantage of spring and a bright sunny day when they were in bloom. The church is on the 50 mile route of The Minster Way, which links the Minster at Beverley with York Minster.

Howden Minster

Week 5 Howden Minster

Howden Minster has been around since Saxon times, but was rebuilt into what is seen today in the 1300's. The roof of the chancel collapsed in the late 17th century, but the rest of the church is complete. The church is dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul and is one of the largest churches in the East Riding. Taken on a freezing cold, overcast day, my image is looking through what would have been the east Window along the ruined chancel to the central tower. Howden is a town with many historic buildings featured in a town trail, the Minster is a hidden gem. I will certainly return and have a good look around the town on a good day.