For once the North East seems to be having its fair share of proper summer sunshine and most of us can't quite believe our luck.
The Hoppings fair on Newcastle Town Moor has had a near-unbroken dry spell for its run which is almost unheard of and now we seem to be heading full-tilt into a weekend that promises more of the same, with just a low risk of a shower. So we hope.
With many people having had to swelter in offices during the rising temperatures of the working week - so missing out on a chance to make the most of the ice cream and shorts weather - they no doubt will have made early plans for their two-day break. And bars and restaurants around Newcastle will be gearing up for a busy weekend as the crowds flock to the city to enjoy themselves.
