It's out with the Carrot and in with the Bugman

IT'S all change at the Mortimer domicile. Amie (aka 'Carrot' for her love of that particular vegetable) is upping sticks and moving to a different part of Cullercoats ('across the Metro tracks' if you must know).

- Peter Mortimer

Amie has recently married Mustafah, her paramour from Istanbul. Before too long there will be a third party in that particular union, as a baby (nicknamed Bumpo for the moment) is on its way.

Alas, this house is not really suited to newborns and/or newlyweds, nor would Amie and Mustafah expect or want it to be. Farley's Rusks are a mainly forgotten memory for your correspondent.

But the couple love the North Tyneside coast (Amie's a native of Wolverhampton, not noted for its spectacular beaches) so naturally they're keen to stay pretty close. I'm sure Bumpo will be happy hereabouts too.

I'm pleased for both of them, but there's a sadness and nostalgia also, as friends and helpers clump up and down the stairs carting off boxes, suitcases, clothing and memories.

Every person who has cohabited in this house over these past 40-odd years has left behind them a piece of their own individual history, and it's a history that soaks into the walls and becomes part of the house's character.