10th century church

The press release is out for the play Nathaniel has a part in. It’s “The Bounds” at Live Theatre, Newcastle from 17 May till 8 June, then it transfers to the Royal Court in London. He and another boy play the part of “Boy” on alternate shows. However only the adults go to London - they’ll find two new boys there. It’s an adult play - age 14 and over. He’s busy learning his lines.

Mr C went at 7.30 to Whitley Bay to pick up the boys, their mum being at a work thing in Milan and Dad at work here. James had a second breakfast when they got here. They walked with me to drop off a present for Adele who is stuck at home with a broken leg, having tripped over the hoover cord. Then we walked along Hillside West to see the huge crane working on one of the £1,000,000+ houses being built there. James thought they had a lovely view but if he had that money he’d not want a house only a foot away from the neighbours - unless Thomas owned the next door house.

After lunch - French Toast aka Eggy Bread - we played monopoly till James bankrupted Thomas and me, then we persuaded Mr C to leave his Baltic route planning to come out with us. We went towards Alnwick and parked up to look at a 10th century church, still in use. They spent ages looking at gravestones to see what age people died in 18th century. They found one with skull and crossbones. I lied and said it was a pirate but in fact many exist as it was popular to represent death, particularly in 18th century.

It was a short walk to the ruined castle where they couldn’t resist climbing, disobeying the notice saying not to - in fact there was so much on the notice we didn’t see that instruction till we came out. I’m glad they kept warm - it was 5 degrees today and grey with occasional showers.

After tea we’ll have a bit of Race Across the World before bed.