As part of an amazing day yesterday, a group of mayors and their consorts and other invited guests, including Lord and Lady Derek Foster  and MP Helen Goodman, attended a civic event – ‘Tea in the Park’ – at Hackworth Park in Shildon.  We had tea in the Rest House provided by a wonderful local firm, and listened to the Durham Constabulary Brass Band performing in the band stand in the park, which looked at its stunning best.  Afterwards we all decamped to Locomotion for individual explorations of the site and visits to the Flying Scotsman.  I might have known though – Anthony Coulls and Locomotion manager Gary Campbell ambushed us and gave us the guided tour and access to the Flying Scotsman in all her glory.  I cannot thank everyone at both the Town Council and Locomotion for helping me to show Shildon off at her very best and  making this such a wonderful day for everyone.