Exhibition Pictures

Well, the pictures are in place at the People's Theatre.You can download a PDF (16mb) showing most of the landscapes and a price list here.The hanging went surprisingly quickly: this was particularly due to Robert's patient and efficient help.The dreadful weather over the previous several days did a lot to increase the stress.On Friday 18 January I had to go to Alnmouth to pick up two paintings from Mick the framer who runs the Old School Gallery with his wife Amanda.

Given the weather forecast I had decided to go by train rather than risk a  car or bus journey.The chances of the A1 getting blocked were considerable and I just didn't feel like more stress and danger. When I got to the station all the trains seemed to be on time-except the one I was due to take.But I had an anytime ticket and so could catch the next train-in less than an hour.On the journey to Alnmouth I noticed the countryside getting whiter. You can see Northumberlandia on the left as you head north-about 15 minutes from Newcastle.It's profile is quite evident. Its a nice idea to produce an earth work but really it is rather timid and basic. It doesn't look very big, either.

From Alnmouth Station it is a 20 minute walk to the village. So, there I was with my walking pole,my gardening boots and my trusty umbrella. The umbrella was a great help as the snow was coming sideways at me. Visibility, because of the brolly in front of me was almost zero but,hey, Alnmouth is in my genes and it is a straight road.

At the gallery they were most welcoming and Mick's work set off the paintings nicely. He is very quick at understanding what you are aiming for. A cup of tea from Amanda was really very welcome and then, I had not expected it-a lift back to the station with my parcel was a kindness I shall remember for quite a while.Well,almost to the station,we got onto the bank which proved slippery and I had to leave Mick and press on for my train.

At the station I noticed someone selling coffee. I cannot recall the name of the firm in question but this seemed a little desperate. There seemed to be a small, square shaped tent made of transparent plastic material. Maybe there was one of those little vans attached. But you had to think, how do they put up with it?What do they do about a lavatory? Presumably there is some deal with the station. It is a manned station now,again, but I couldn't see a lavatory for passengers.I suppose that this kind of stall is the modern version of those  canvas and wood coffee stalls you used to see in the past.When the train approached you could see its lights about 150-200 yards away-but hardly see the train itself.