Jess discovers the north

It’s been a very busy week this week as I had five days to show Jess some of the exciting things in the area.

We began by visiting the Monkey Forest. Having not been for years it was great to go back and not run round it (how could I young me not run round and see all the monkeys?). Anyway we both enjoyed it particularly as they had three eight week old babies which were adorable so we spent hours in there. After our picnic (I've not had a proper picnic for years!), we picked Helen up and went for an unexpectedly long wander at Tegg's Nose in Macclesfield (not sure Jess enjoyed that so much).

Tuesday was animal themed again as we visited Knowsley Safari Park. Again I'd not been for years but nothing has changed, this time the baboons left muddy handprints all over the car (as expected) and decided to dismantle the windscreen washer jets, but otherwise we made it through unharmed. Again we had a picnic (two in a week) before discovering the wolves and watching the sea lion show, which as ever was great! From there we headed to Manchester for a Comedy Club pizza (they really are great) and for a night of Toby's comedy club, joined by Helen. As ever a great and very funny evening!

Wednesday and Thursday were a little quieter exploring Congleton, whilst we ventured to Waterworld on Friday. Jess is an avid swimmer so this was a must whilst she was up north, and whilst it’s not so much my thing I really enjoyed it. That evening we went to Winsford to see 'A Joke' at The Theatre Space. It was great to be back there but odd not to be working on the show. It’s a three hander which is going up to the Fringe and very well written and acted by all, although Richard was possibly the best (not that I'm biased).

Saturday was supposed to be Sheffield Comic Con, however we drove there to find the guests has cancelled so we came back, fed the ducks and had an ice cream in Buxton. Sadly Jess headed home Sunday morning as she is off on holiday soon. After I'd put her on the train I once again headed to Sheffield for a more successful day meeting the charming David Gooderson and catching-up with Sophie. As I sit here writing this my rather busy week is starting to catch-up with me.