A HIKER from New Zealand is hoping to trace a couple he met up with the last twice he was in England on a walking trip.

Brendon Johnston bumped into the couple, who believes are from the Darlington area, when he was in the country in 2012 and the following summer.

The Kiwi is planning on returning to the UK this year and is hoping to be able to meet up with them again.

He said: "In July 2012 I hiked Wainwright's Coast to Coast walk from St Bees to Robin Hoods Bay.

Whilst in the Lake District and during my hike from Grasmere to Patterdale I met Gordon and Bev who were on a day hike. This happened near Grisedale Tarn and we chatted before carrying on our walks.

"The next day we had a chance meeting at the Patterdale Hotel Carpark area.

"This in itself was not outside the realms of happening. Why I say that is I was staying in the Patterdale area for a couple of days, Gordon and Bev at the Patterdale Hotel and Patterdale isn't a big Village or Hamlet. We had a nice chat before saying our goodbyes."

He added: "As I particularly enjoyed the Lake District I came back for the Summer of 2013. Here I based myself at the village of Glenridding.

"It was here in August 2013 where destiny came our way and we had our second chance meeting.

"It was lovely to see Gordon and Bev and we were all surprised but pleased to meet again. We then again went our separate ways and I now cannot understand why I didn't obtain contact details for them.

"During the English summer of 2014 whilst back in New Zealand, I made two enquiries to see if I could track down Gordon and Bev.

"Firstly, I rang the Patterdale Hotel and explained the situation to the receptionist and that I had a photograph of all of us. The receptionist was very helpful, but from her end the logistics didn't make it feasible."

Do you recognise Gordon and Bev? If so, contact The Northern Echo on 01325-505063 and we will be able to put you in contact with Mr Johnston.