We have sunshine! Grab it while it lasts

The North East of England isn't noted for its fine weather. The weather isn't as bad as people make out, but there certainly isn't enough sunshine on average. Like much of the country, the North East is bathed in sunshine today. The fact that we have a lot of sun, almost nothing in the way of clouds and no cold breeze off the North Sea makes a pleasant change. The world is a much better place when it is like this. But the forecast is for thunderstorms tomorrow and then drizzle over the rest of the weekend - typical for a Bank Holiday weekend.

The North East is placed where the cold of the Arctic Air hits us first and hits us hard. We are the last place in England to get the end of Winter and the last to see the start of Summer. We are at the end of the queue when it comes to phenomena like the one we are currently having - warm air being dragged up from the Mediterranean. So it is little wonder that people in this part of the world have hardened to the cold and bask in the slightest amount of sunshine.

All it takes is some sun, not any heat in particular, to get people in their shorts, walking around instead of driving and getting the barbecue on. And I like that. People that embrace all that they are given are always alright in my book. The fact that British like a moan about anything and everything hasn't escaped this part o the country, but the moans are one thing, while the activity is another. You see people interact with the great outdoors here in a way that I haven't experienced in others parts of the country when I have lived or travelled there. They get out to walk the dog, get on a bike or go for a run in the rain, the sleet, the wind and the snow. I suppose if you have no choice bit to deal with the elements then you find a way to get on with it.

I have just been writing a book for someone that practices cold exposure as part of his life. This means a cold shower in the morning, a regular dip into an icy lake and a general connection to the cold. He grew up in the Ukraine and it was rare that they had hot water, so the cold exposure that he uses now in adult life I suppose comes naturally to him. I can see parallels to this life and the people of the North East.

We know that the cold is just around the corner. The warmth that we are feeling today won't last forever so the people around here drain as much as they can from it. The beer gardens will be filled until closing time and the air will be thick with the smell of half-cooked burgers and chicken that is dangerous to eat. Mixed with a few beers, there will be a lot of upset bellies in the morning, but it will all be worthwhile!

Does Sunderland sit in the shadow of Newcastle?

Having lived in the North East for some time a strange phenomenon happens whenever you meet a certain type of person. This person looks down on the rest of the North East like they are the poor relation. They feel superior and act as though the rest of the world want to be one of their select bunch. What has made them like this?

• Is it the fact that they have achieved great things in their life?
• Does it stem from owning riches beyond the imagination of others?
• Have they been chosen by a higher power to be 'better' than everyone else?

No. The people that I refer to are people from Newcastle. They feel that the accident of being born in or near the city suddenly elevates them above the rest of the people that live in this part of the country, and probably the rest of the world too. You can feel it when you walk through the city. You can hear it in conversation. You know it from the way they support their football team. They feel that being part of the city of Newcastle makes them something that everyone else aspires to.

Now I like Newcastle. The city is a great place to spend time, do some shopping and get some amazing food and drink. It has some museums that deserve greater exposure, nightlife that is lively and entertaining to a point and a history that is something to be proud of. But not for one second do I, nor anyone else I know, want to be a Geordie.

There is a city just down the road that has as much history and things to do as Newcastle but doesn't quite get the same exposure. Sunderland has a city centre that could do with a little investment, but it has a great deal that Newcastle cannot offer. The museums stand up to its neighbour and the fact that you can visit the beach from Sunderland is a bonus that the bigger city cannot compete with.

Sunderland is seen as the poor neighbour, and looks like to stands in the shadow of Newcastle but that isn't necessarily the case. House prices may be higher in Newcastle, but Sunderland has the draw of jobs with the Nissan factory on it's doorstep. If only for another couple of weeks, Sunderland can boast a football team in a higher league. Take the small wins while you can.

Nationally, there is a lot more awareness and exposure for Newcastle than there is for Sunderland. People think about stag parties and hen do's, they think about Newcastle races and some sightseeing in the city. It has an airport, the rest of the North East is constantly told. It is a growing city that has managed its image well and developed into a destination. Maybe Sunderland is on the same path. As I said earlier, the city centre needs a lot of attention. It looks drab and doesn't attract the higher end shops that would allow it compete with the city up the road.

I think that there is a lot to do in both cities, but the way that Newcastle has grown sees it attract more investment and attention at the moment. Who knows what the future will bring?