Down to Tynemouth to deliver memory sticks to most of the County Records Committee who handily live very close to each other. Stopped at Blyth South Harbour and found three Snow Bumtings near the pier. On to St Mary’s but no luck with the Siberian Chiffchaff there as too windy. On to Tynemouth and a stop at Colin Bradshaw’s garden at 9 Tynemouth Place. A peer over the fence here (permission granted !) drew results with the Lesser Whitethroat coming to the feeder. This bird is thought to be of an eastern race (probably blythi rather than halimodendri). Unfortunately not calling and views of outer tail not easy. Finished at Swallow Pond where excellent views obtained of a Water Rail by the screen. Janet had taken her bridge camera and managed some close-ups. TRD/JD
