Hi all,

Hope you're all enjoying this fantastic summer. It's a rarity to have this length of good weather up in the great north of England - so I've been taking advantage of it as many of you have. Crack the barbecue out as much as possible, relax and enjoy. Here's a couple of shots from the garden this year which is looking amazing - the best in 8 years of living here.. See if you can spot little Jacob enjoying the weather :)

You might remember that Derek went down to sunny Bournemouth in January to film the TDN Showcase at the prestigious Sandbanks Hotel.  Acts from across the south came to show off their talents, and took time to come and talk to me for this brand new series.  It kicks off this week with singer/songwriter Helena Mace www.helenamace.com .   Catch the show on The Holiday and Cruise Channel on sky 284 this Friday at 9pm.  It's available too online at www.holidayandcruisechannel.co.uk/the-showcase.html