Out and About

From the revamping of a train station to the 40th anniversary of a cathedral, and a community fun day to a black tie charity fundraiser, it's been a busy and varied few days.

Taking selfies at the opening of the upgraded Darlington Railway Station.

Friday morning saw the official unveiling of an extension to Darlington railway station, including two new platforms. The £140m development also includes a multi-storey car park, new entrance and concourse, which connects the new buildings to the original Victorian structure. Friday's event welcomed several special guests and brought the four-year project to a conclusion.

Later that day St Mary's Cathedral in Coulby Newham celebrated a ruby jubilee. A busy mass was suceeded by a substantial supper for the clergy and congregation. The cathedral itself was modelled on Roseberry Topping and the last sun of the day caught it beautifully on this landmark occasion.

Then on Saturday, it was off to the KFC Youth Foundation's hub in central Middlesbrough for a community fun day. Open to all from the vicinity, it proved particularly popular with youngsters with football, face and henna painting and biscuit decorating among some of the activities on offer. Firefighters, police officers, MP Andy McDonald and Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Storey joined in the fun too.

Donning some smarter attire, I was back out to cover a Great North Air Ambulance fundraiser at Hardwick Hall in the evening. Organised by Darlington-based HR2day, the night included drinks, dinner and a charity auction in support of the life-saving organisation.

A hectic but rewarding couple of days documenting some interesting and important functions taking place in the North East.

@darlingtonbc @Darlingtonrail2 @TeesValleyCA @mary_cathedral @MichaelMcGeary @kfc @AndyMcDonaldMP @HR2dayLtd @GNairambulance @HardwickHHotel