Day 10: J is for jousting, jesters and Jo
North Northumberland has experienced many territorial incursions from the Scots over the centuries, as well as from Vikings and others from the European mainland. This explains the substantial number of castles, or at least ruins, which are to be found along our coast and border. From the site of the battle of Carham in the north west corner, which will have its 1,000 year commemoration next year, and Flodden Field at Branxton, to Norham and the great Elizabethan walls in Berwick, down the coast to Bamburgh & Dunstanburgh Castles, and Alnwick castle in the centre of the constituency - this most northerly corner of England can boast a history of defensive warfare second to none. Now these great stone beasts teach the young generations about battles and living conditions, and at Alnwick jesters and clowns entertain in old fashioned ways.
But perhaps the most important lesson that I always hope visitors to our battlefields and castles learn is that we have made great great strides in learning to live peacefully side by side. Which is why the murder of my colleague Jo Cox last year was so unutterably shocking. That a woman who believed so strongly in democracy and the rule of law that she presented herself for election should be gunned down in the street whilst serving her constituents seems barbaric, out of kilter with the improvements we have made in negotiating solutions between those with differing views.
So today, as we take a moment to remember the bubbly & loving Mum of two wee bairns, wife to the strongest man Brendan and a voice for harmony rather than division, please hug your children and loved ones extra tightly.
If you have any issues you would like to discuss please don't hesitate to contact me anytime on 01665 478188 orĀ trevelyanoffice@gmail.com