Carrick is my mum’s maiden name. It originates from the border region between Scotland and the north of England – territory that changed hands many times over the centuries. Carrick is a habitational name meaning ‘rock’ from the Gaelic ‘carraig’. The surname was first found in Ayrshire and those who lived in the steep and rocky area were known as the ‘men of Carrick’. The most notable ruler of Carrick was Robert the Bruce, Earl of Carrick and when he became King of the Scots in the early 14th century, the title went with him. Since the 15th century the title has automatically transferred to the heir apparent to the throne with the currently holder being Prince William.

As far as my research goes I can’t prove I’m descended from Robert the Bruce just yet, but I can trace my family back to Northumberland, in fact, they’ve never moved very far out of the area! The first Carrick I have was John Carrick who was born around 1750 in Alston, Cumbria. A town which claims to be the highest market town in England. His son William was baptised there and moved to Haltwhistle and flitted between there and Allendale, sometimes ending up in Tynemouth, but never far from Hadrian’s Wall!

My Granddad was even born a house called Roman Wall Villa, the back wall of which was in fact the Roman Wall!