First job of the day was to attend the official opening of new teaching facilities at Carmel RC College in Darlington.

MP Alan Milburn performed the opening and the Rt Rev Bishop Seamus Cunningham gave a special blessing.

It was a stunning occasion, with brilliant visual presentations and music so typical of Carmel, which has a reputation as one of the best schools in the country.

There was also a moving tribute from Mr Milburn to Carmel's principal, Jim O'Neill, who is retiring soon after 16 years of what the MP described as "outstanding leadership".

I have to agree. There are few people I've met during my time at The Northern Echo who are as widely respected as Jim.

He's done a fantastic job and Carmel is in better shape than ever now that the new facilities have been unveiled.