WE spent the bank holiday weekend in County Durham to visit Kynren, which, as I’m sure all your readers know, is magnificent, beautiful and moving.

We also did the back stage tour of the Bishop’s Palace, and look forward to returning again next year to see that restored (and see the amazing Kynren again).

It's wonderful to see this imaginative regeneration, and the engagement of the local community.

Two things added to the enjoyment of our visit, the first being roundabouts of all things.

The good roads are dotted with roundabouts, and each one is differently landscaped and immaculately kept.

I loved the dolly-mixture colours of the wild flowers, and the elegance of curves of grasses and hedges along with the more sculptural designs.

Well done to the local council for installing these islands of beauty that give pleasure to travellers.

The second thing that really enhanced our visit was the people.

Whether it was in a shop, hotel, restaurant or on the street, or a bus driver or helper at Kynren, without exception everyone we met was warm and friendly, genuinely pleased to speak to you and extremely helpful. The nicest people in the country. Thank you.

Jean Illingworth, Norton, Malton