Ferens

The first half of a two day football and walking visit in Co. Durham started with a noon kick-off at New Ferens Park, home of Durham Women FC. Everton were the visitors in a League Cup tie, giving me my first chance this season to actually cheer on my own club.

On a 3G pitch and in pouring rain Everton dominated possession and territory for much of the match, but a defensive error gifted a goal to Durham who sat deep and defended resolutely, and successfully, for the rest of the game. So disappointment for us Evertonians in the healthy 200+ crowd.

After the match I took the scenic route back into Durham, with a couple of miles along the bank of the River Wear. The rain didn't ease much so there wasn't any butterfly activity, but there was plenty of bird life, with Kingfisher, Cormorant, Grey Heron, Sand Martin and Grey Wagtail. I also watched a Sparrowhawk flush a small bird from a tree and a subsequent aerial chase which finshed in an escape.

About half way back into the City there was a sizable beach which had a good collection of old bricks so I had fun looking for different makers. As expected there were plenty displaying the legacy of industry further up river.

Back in Durham I had a couple of hours wandering before catching a bus out to my lodgings for the night. It's now thirteen years since I worked here and while it is an ancient city there is still plenty that has changed and much that I've forgotten.