ONE of several old sayings we remember best is that of St Swithin's Day, July 15, also spelt 'Swithun'.

St Swithun was an Anglo-Saxon bishop of Winchester and subsequently patron saint of Winchester Cathedral. His historical importance as bishop is overshadowed by his reputation for posthumous miracle-working. According to tradition, if it rains on Saint Swithun's bridge (Winchester) on his feast day  July 15) it will continue for forty days.

Despite the saying being localised to Winchester, many people across the country are interested to see what the day dawns for them. For our district it's not good news if you're a barbecue fan. 

Despite having a warmer than average June over the UK, we have had a less than impressive July so far especially around our district and if the weather forecast from the Met Office is anything to go by and if an old saying proves to be accurate, it's not going to improve anytime soon.

There is heavy rain and thundery showers forecast for Skipton and Craven for much of Saturday and on and off showers for at least the next fortnight. Payback, many will say, for having a nice stretch of wall to wall sunshing just a few weeks ago.

Mind you, I think most of us would rather have some rain than the 40oC temperatures they are experiencing across parts of Europe.