HIGH spirited ladies set off on April 28 for our spring holiday in the Peak District.

Our first stop was at Crich Tramway Village, where volunteers restore, repair and run vintage trams over a mile on an old lead mine.

We had a ride and enjoyed the views, fascinating.

Our hotel was opposite Derby railway station, comfy with excellent breakfasts.

It was featured in the Bradshaw Books and spoken of by Michael Portillo in The Great British Railway Journeys series.

On the second day we went to Chatsworth House which was wonderful and historic.

It was used during the last war by girls from Penrhos College, North Wales, we even saw the dormitory and beds set up since the outbreak 75 years ago of the Second World War.

Our guide gave us a detailed tour and later we walked the gardens and saw the famous Emporer Fountain.

On the third day some of us visited the Royal Crown Derby factory, famous for its beautiful porcelain china.

It's the only English working pottery left.

The china is delicately handled and we saw hands on artists painting the vases and plates.

Later, when we were free to look around, we saw the light and airy cathedral.

On the fourth day, the light rain suited our visit to Masson Mills, where we saw original, noisy looms working to weave cotton textiles, even children worked there amongst the noise and dirt.

Later we sampled Bakewell tarts and pudding in the same town.

Our final day was the National Memorial Arboretum near Tamworth, it was breathtakingly beautiful, giving a serene and honest place of rest and peace for all who have loyally served our nation in many different ways.

This was a poignant finish to a very happy, enjoyable holiday amongst like minded WI ladies and I strongly recommend anyone to partake themselves.