The volume is an annotated printed memorandum book for the year 1797 (entitled 'The Newcastle' and printed by S. Hodgson). It contains printed columns for weekly accounts and appointments etc. with each page opening representing one week. At the back of the diary is printed information comprising a pocket trade directory for the Newcastle-upon-Tyne area. Clarke completed the diary until the week of 28 May when entries cease. The end papers of the diary have been used by Clarke to note the names of the people that he invited to dinner and supper between January and April. The diary entries themselves are largely dinner engagements giving the name of the host. These entries are accompanied with weekly financial accounts.
The volume contains one loose item, a receipt for a sum of money paid as interest on a loan provided by Ambrose Surtees. It is dated 12 January 1797.