Tynemouth - Windy but sunny

Waves crash into the north face of the the pier.

A different world, the south facing side. Seabirds taking shelter in the sunlit lee of Tynemouth Pier

The statue of Collingwood, the naval officer rather than the cricketer.

A Geordie lad, he was the first to engage the enemy and Nelson's second in command at Trafalgar. He took over command when Nelson died. Ended his career Admiral Lord Collingwood, but died at sea circa 5 years after Trafalgar.

A rather more quirky shot, I do like quirky

Canon 5DII

TUC Day of Action - Gateshead Civic Centre

I was caught out and moved almost to tears by the band who played the old Methodist tune that I knew from my youth to "While Shepherds Watched", with the chorus "Sweet chiming Christmas Bells". Funny how an unexpected piece of music can carry you back to your childhood. The lovely banner is that of one of the teachers' unions.

For a protest primarily about pensions, there were a good number of relatively young participants.

Three smiling young nurses. This was a very sweet tempered event, most people were happy to pose for the camera.

Need I say more?

These and other photos of the event are on sale via the agency Alamy