I have recently re-discovered a book that belonged to my Grandfather. Published in 1896 Birds of the Derwent Valley, as it's title suggests is a compendium of the birds spotted in the area. The introduction describes the Derwent Valley as being "much better known by tourists and excursionists since the opening of the Shotley Bridge road and the Consett Branch of the N.E.Railway".
The road is now the A694 and a busy commuter route to Gateshead and Newcastle, while the Consett Branch of the N.E.Railway is now the Derwent Walk. Being a member of Blaydon Harriers who are based near one end of the 'walk' and living in Medomsley, a few mile from the other end, the 'walk' tends to feature heavily in my training runs.
The Derwent Walk is an 11 mile route which rises gently, just over 500ft from Swalwell at its northern end to Consett in the south.
On this mornings 5 mile run I spotted Curlew and a Red Kite (introduced into the area in the '90's). And, so back to the book, which reflects a different time and attitude. With a surprising number of the birds featured being identified after they have been shot or their eggs taken.
The road is now the A694 and a busy commuter route to Gateshead and Newcastle, while the Consett Branch of the N.E.Railway is now the Derwent Walk. Being a member of Blaydon Harriers who are based near one end of the 'walk' and living in Medomsley, a few mile from the other end, the 'walk' tends to feature heavily in my training runs.
The Derwent Walk is an 11 mile route which rises gently, just over 500ft from Swalwell at its northern end to Consett in the south.
On this mornings 5 mile run I spotted Curlew and a Red Kite (introduced into the area in the '90's). And, so back to the book, which reflects a different time and attitude. With a surprising number of the birds featured being identified after they have been shot or their eggs taken.
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