Love your region, hate the potholes

MY wife and I have just returned from Newcastle, which was, as usual, an absolute delight. We have been visiting this area for more years than I care to remember.

It is without doubt one of the finest parts of the country, with so much to do and see.

We had a splendid visit to Belsay Hall ,Castle & Gardens. Particular praise to the head gardener and her team. Also to the very friendly tea ladies.

Another super visit to Wallington with identical praise as above. The only difference being I do not know the gender of the head gardener. I do know, however, the tea lady was Megan.

An annual pilgrimage to Druridge Bay was even blessed with lovely weather. We booked in for four of our days at a pub in Stamfordham which should be called a restaurant with rooms. We have never enjoyed a stay more anywhere! It was splendid.

Hopefully by now you must be beginning to think we love to visit you, which is indeed the case. Unfortunately we may never return. The reason is simple: “We cannot stand the potholes which are everywhere!”

One nearly wrenched the steering wheel out of my hands. They are a total disgrace. I cannot believe that there are not thousands of people who feel like I do. Surprisingly the worst-affected area appears to be Ponteland.

Get your council to get their act together before it is to late. We did intend coming back again this year. We possibly will never return if nothing is done. PETER SMYTH & the three friends who accompanied him