Members of a classic car owners club were full of praise after a visit to a Victorian visitor attraction in Darlington.
Thirteen members of the Tees Valley MG Owners Club visited the Tees Cottage Pumping Station complex, at Broken Scar on the A67 near Low Coniscliffe, during their monthly get-together - the first time many of them had visited the site.
Mandy Rees, who organised the visit, said: "I have passed the sign for Tees Cottage Pumping Station on Coniscliffe Road in Darlington more times than I care to remember and have often wondered what was behind those brick walls.
"The opportunity presented itself to find out when I was tasked with organising a run in September for Tees Valley MG Owners Club.
"I could not have picked a better destination.
"We were greeted at the gates, shown where to park, served coffee then given a guided tour.
"The site was a revelation, with incredible examples of working historic engineering housed in beautiful buildings all set in spacious grounds.
"The volunteers gave as much time as we needed to explain everything and answer all of our questions.
"The afternoon was rounded off with a selection of homemade cakes and scones."
Mandy is now encouraging others to visit the site.
She said: "If, like me, you have also driven past those brick walls, please take a moment to check out when the next open day is taking place, note the date in your calendar and go along to support our local heritage.
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"There is car parking and gazebos if the weather is not good.
"You will not be disappointed."
If you are interested in visiting Tees Cottage Pumping Station and are interested in vintage and veteran vehicles, make a date to attend the Gala Day on Sunday, October 6.
If you are interested in organising a group visit to the pumping station, please contact TCPS at chairman@tcps.co.uk.
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