Mark & Clare Miscellany 2024

Termination

Dear Mark, Clare, John-Luke (7), and Isaac (4),

In the absence of a viable alternative, we regret to inform you that your year is being made redundant. Your official termination date is 31 December.

As part of your redundancy package, you retain access to the following:

• Mark's new cybersecurity software job, which kicked off in early November,
• Isaac’s much anticipated and enthusiastic start to Reception class.

We’d also like to take this opportunity to reflect on some of the highlights of our time together. These include an unexpectedly long and lively five-week stay at Brancepeth Castle over the summer, with a steady stream of visitors and plenty of adventures. Of particular note were the beach visits along the Durham coast where dolphins were spotted offshore.

You embraced every training opportunity available this year: skiing lessons, summer climbing club, John-Luke’s twice-weekly chess sessions, and Isaac’s ballroom dance classes. We're confident that you will continue this progress in the year ahead.

The investment in English Heritage membership was fruitful, sparking numerous visits to Kenilworth Castle and intriguing explorations of Roman forts along Hadrian’s Wall. John-Luke had a keen interest in historic board games, while Isaac proved his ability to scale ruined walls to unnerving heights.

On a less fortunate note, Clare’s newfound enthusiasm for tag rugby ended the year with a broken hand. Here’s to a speedy recovery and a swift return to play in 2025!

As you prepare to embrace the opportunities and challenges of a brand-new year, we wish you every success and thank you for all you’ve brought to 2024.