In 1963 we took the children for their first holiday in Newcastle. If memory serves me right we stayed in a converted garage at the back of someone's house. As usual I took along the sketchbook and some pencils.

Newcastle, Co. Down

Pencil sketch 1963

The bridge over the Shimna River. Behind that bridge was (is?) a boating pool. Many a holiday I spent rowing (or was it paddle boats?) our youngsters around that pond. Then it was off to the amusements in the building in the centre of this drawing. Or sticky candy floss bought in the building on the left.

The bridge Newcastle. Co. Down 1963

Newcastle Yacht Club

Pencil drawing 1963

A board on the wall grandly declared this harbour building as the "Yacht Club" although, as you see, it was derelict when I drew it in '63. What was it originally I wonder?

The terrace of houses in the background I think is called "Widow's Row". Something to do with the men-folk being lost at sea. Can anyone give me more details?

Derelict building Newcastle Harbour 1963

Brian isn't the only 'your place and mine' member who has been remembering summer days spent in Newcastle. Read MEMORIES of day trips to and holidays spent in the place where the Mournes sweep down to the sea. (Editor)

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T he boating pond is still there, it used to be rowing boats but its now pedalling swans :) the amusements in joyland and the shop with the candy floss is the bon bon! they are all still there!!! :)