Kielder Reservoir

The ‘jewel in the water crown’ is set to celebrate a special anniversary.

As Kielder Reservoir in Northumberland approaches its thirtieth birthday, tourists and locals alike are invited to hear its extraordinary story as told by the people who live and work there.

‘What the reservoir means to me’, a special exhibition at Tower Knowe Visitor Centre, is one of a series of activities taking place in Kielder Water & Forest Park to commemorate the anniversary.

On Wednesday 26 May 1982 her majesty the Queen officially opened Kielder Reservoir in Northumberland. The largest man-made lake in northern Europe; the Northumbrian Water project had a big impact on the remote valley and is now one of the county’s top tourism destinations.

Elisabeth Rowark, from Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, said: “Kielder is such a special place and a place that many people hold dear to their hearts. It’s sheer scale, the breathtaking scenery and the pure, idyllic tranquillity makes it such a majestic and memorable place.

“We’re inviting everyone to join us in celebrating Kielder Reservoir’s first 30 years and what better way than seeing this special place through the eyes of those in the know.”

The exhibition showcases deeply personal stories that capture the reservoir’s fascinating history such as the tale of Jonty Hall, the little boy who dammed the River North Tyne to form the reservoir in 1979 and now manages the reservoirs maintenance, and Richard Bond, who used to catch tiddlers in his socks and now manages Kielder Salmon Centre, looking after salmon, pearl mussels and other endangered species.

Children are also invited to art and craft workshops where they can contribute to the celebration of Kielder’s special history by taking part in one of three activities. They can help to colour in a giant commemorative sail that will eventually be displayed at the visitor centre, log why they love Kielder so much on a special collage, or make mini baskets or foam animals to take home.

The special weekend of activities will take place on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May and includes:

Tower Knowe Visitor Centre

The exhibition stories:

• Jonty Hall – pressed the button to form the reservoir and now manages the maintenance
• Richard Bond – used to catch tiddlers in his socks and now manages the Kielder Salmon Centre
• Peter Pattinson – won his first fishing competition at Kielder aged 14 and is now assistant operations manager
• Jayne Dolbear – senior watersports instructor at Calvert Trust Kielder
• Kelly Hollings – returned from working in North America to be an estates officer for Northumberland Wildlife Trust
•  Ellen Earsman – her daughter was chosen to present a posy to the Queen at the opening of Kielder Reservoir and now Ellen works at Leaplish Waterside Park
• Dave Raggett – passionate about renewable energy and looks after Kielder’s hydro-electric plant
•  Maria Smith – an architect who fell in love with Kielder and designed Freya’s Cabin and Robin’s Hut artworks

For interview requests contact Philippa Clark on 0191 301 5538.

Visit the interactive exhibition or take part in the art and crafts workshops from 11am to 3pm both days. Pre-booking not required. There will be free tea, coffee and birthday cake for all visitors.

Jonty Hall

Fishing

To mark Kielder’s 30th birthday, Northumbrian Water has released thirty very special rainbow trout into the reservoir. Lucky anglers that catch a fish with an anniversary tag can win a variety of prizes including day fishing permits and 2013 season permits.

Activity taster days at Calvert Trust Kielder

Drop in anytime from 10am to 4pm to try your hand at the top outdoor activities Calvert Trust Kielder has to offer. For £10 per person, visitors can experience the High Ropes course on Friday 25 May, the indoor climbing wall on Saturday 26 May or the giant King Swing on Sunday 27 May. No booking required.

Kielder Observatory

On Saturday 26 May there is an Aurora Night at the award-winning Kielder Observatory. Learn about the incredible energy that the sun releases second by second, how this energy interacts with the earth’s atmosphere and gives a light show like no other. Booking required through www.kielderobservatory.org.

Mountain biking and cycling

Join in the celebrations by cycling 26 miles around the shoreline of Kielder Water on this anniversary weekend. Purple Mountain bike hire centre has a special family offer available on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May – hire two adult bikes for the full day and get one children’s hire for half price or hire three adult bikes for the full day and pay £5 for one children’s hire. Offer must be pre-booked by calling 01434 250 532.

Kielder Water & Forest Park, which spans 250 square miles, is home to the largest forest in England and the largest man-made lake in northern Europe. It was voted the most tranquil place in England by the Campaign to Protect Rural England. For more information go to www.visitkielder.com.

‘Like’ Kielder Water & Forest Park on Facebook -http://www.facebook.com/kielder

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Cragside House, Gardens & Estate. Credit: John Millar

Gardeners at the National Trust’s Cragside in Northumberland are predicting the best Rhododendron display in years thanks to the mild winter and April showers.

Huge numbers of flower buds are bursting into colour at Cragside in Rothbury, the former home of Lord Armstrong who created his 1000 acre estate to replicate the Rhododendron forests of the Himalayas. Gardener Neil Cuthbertson says this year’s displays promise to be spectacular:

“The Rhododendron season is one of the best times of year to visit Cragside. The whole estate is awash with pink, purple, white and red Rhododendrons, complimented by the scented yellow and orange Azaleas. You can explore the estate on foot as we have over 40 miles of footpaths, or by car around our 6 mile carriage drive. Either way, this is a great year to visit as we’re expecting the best display in five years. The number of flowers buds ready to bloom is phenomenal.”

Rhododendron flower buds form in autumn and weather conditions over the winter and spring months effect the survival of those buds. During harsh winters, stems will snap under the weight of the heavy snow and a hot dry spring will reduce the longevity of the bloom. The combined mild winter and April showers this year has resulted in masses of flower buds that are predicted to last a good few weeks.

Neil continued:

“The Rhododendrons at Cragside are in bloom from mid May to mid June. With over 100 varieties spread out across the rock garden and wider estate, it’s no wonder people come back each year to see Lord Armstrong’s historic estate in all its glory.”

This year the National Trust are continuing their Whit week late night openings for visitors to experience the Rhododendron blooms in the evening light. Justine James, Customer Development Manager at Cragside told us:

“We’re open until 9pm on the 6, 7 and 8 June for our local visitors and supporters. Cragside is wonderful in the evening light, particularly when the Rhododendrons are in bloom. We want to give people the chance to pop in after work, or at a quieter time of day, to have a cuppa and something to eat, and then take a walk or drive around the estate.”

Cragside Gardens and Estate are open Tuesdays to Sundays (and Mondays during school holidays) from 10am to 7pm. On the 6, 7 and June the estate will close at 9pm (last admission 8pm). The House is open from 1pm to 5pm.

For more information about Cragside log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside and to keep up to date with the latest goings on follow them on Twitter @NTcragside or like their Facebook page www.facebook.com/cragside.

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British Cycling

In what can only be described as the most exciting year the UK has ever seen, British Cycling’s Breeze Network is on the hunt for inspirational women to become the next generation of Breeze champions in Northumberland.

The Breeze network empowers women to change the face of cycling for good and leave a lasting legacy. Led by women for women, Breeze relies on a hugely important group of volunteer champions to make this programme come to life.  Breeze champions will help other women enjoy the fun, fresh air and freedom offered by bikes rides. There is no need to be a cycling expert – just be confident on a bike and keen to help others.

If there are any enthusiastic women out there who want to bring out the exciting, friendly and sociable elements of bike rides – Breeze has just the thing. This Ride Leader Award empowers and supports women to lead and deliver women-only bike rides in their local area and shares tips and advice on all practical aspects of a ride.

What: Breeze Champion Training Course
Where: Blyth Sports Centre, Bolam Park, Blyth, Northumberland, NE24 5BT
When: Saturday 26 May
Time: 08:45 – 17:30
Cost: FREE

Natalie Justice, Breeze Network Project Manager for British Cycling, said: “We are so excited about this course and can’t wait to meet some fabulous people who’ll encourage local women to get on their bike and have fun. There really is no better time to be helping women get on a bike, so what are you waiting for? Go to the website and find out more.”

After completing the award and receiving their fabulous free Breeze kit and British Cycling Ride membership, the Breeze champions will be able to deliver their bike rides. The great thing about this network is that women don’t have to lead alone. Add an extra dose of girl power and team up with a friend to become Breeze buddies and deliver the ride together. The opportunities are endless.

There are still spaces available, so register today to guarantee your place. It’s a fun one day ride leadership course where women will meet fellow champions and the best thing about the course is that it’s absolutely free. So, on your bike, get set, go to  www.breezebikerides.com and fill out an application form right now.

Learn more about cycling in Northumberland and browse our online cycle routes.

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Flodden 2013

The Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum is looking to expand by a further 25 sites and is seeking nominations from across the UK for sites which relate to the Battle of Flodden, either directly or indirectly and which will help in the development of the network of the Ecomuseum. The search for new sites is part of the development phase for the wider Flodden 500 project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The Flodden 500 project application is the first substantial cross-border project that the HLF has considered and approved in recent years. The project will include new cross-border archaeological and historical  research, cross-border education initiatives and commemorative events as well as the extension of the existing Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum sites from 12 to perhaps 30-40. The aim of seeking nominations is to identify a ‘long list’ of as many Flodden related sites as possible. This list will be distilled down to a ‘preferred list’ of sites, perhaps 15 in Scotland and 10 in England to equal the balance of sites each side of the border, which will be included in the full Flodden 500 HLF application. If this application is successful these sites will be added into the Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum with their own web pages, leaflets and new interpretation.

The 9th of September 2013 will mark the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Flodden, fought in the north of Northumberland between James IV of Scotland and Thomas Howard, the Earl of Surrey, on behalf of Henry VIII of England. This battle, though triggered by Henry’s invasion of France in the Summer of 1513, was really about statehood and kingship and Henry’s lack of respect for the Scottish King (20 years his senior) since coming to the throne four years earlier. In a rising atmosphere of threat and insult, James IV invaded England on 22nd August 1513 and within 18 days lay dead on the Battlefield of Flodden, by the small village of Branxton, less than 5 miles south of the Scottish Border.

Flodden Battlefield

It would be the last time a British monarch was to die on the battlefield at the head of his army, and Flodden is often remembered solely for this reason. It was however a national tragedy, particularly for the Scots, with estimates of their total dead, both during and in the aftermath of the battle, ranging from 10-20000 men, women and children. This was a tragedy that has echoed down the ages and today forms the basis of traditions that still drive aspects of the Common Riding festivals that dominate the summer months in the Scottish borderlands. It spawned legend and literature and for a generation left Scotland without effective leadership at all levels. Perhaps more relevant today, with renewed calls for Scottish independence, is the battle’s status as the trigger that ultimately led to the Union of the Scottish and English crowns in 1603, under James VI of Scotland, barely 90 years after that fateful slaughter.

The Battle of Flodden stands as a reminder of the hubris of Kings and nation states and of how the politics of sleight can get rapidly out of hand, effecting us all. For many years it has fallen out of the national memory of both Scotland and England, being commemorated almost exclusively in the border areas though the Common Riding festivals and at the site of the memorial cross on the battlefield itself. Yet with the impending quincentenary interest in the events of the summer of 1513 is increasing again and has led to a number of projects aimed at creating both a fitting commemoration for the battle and also a lasting legacy of sustainable development through the commemoration.

In 2008 a committee, Flodden 500, was convened by the owner of the Battlefield, Lord Joicey of Ford and Etal Estates, and over the last four years this group has worked towards developing a framework within which an appropriate commemoration might occur. As a first step, through the auspices of the Glendale Gateway Trust, a grant was successfully sought in 2010 from the European Northumberland Uplands LEADER+ fund to establish a network of Flodden related sites, known as the Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum. This, the first ecomuseum in England, is a community driven initiative to protect and celebrate the heritage of northern Northumberland and Scotland, linking 12 sites (4 in Scotland and 8 in England) together through a website (Flodden1513.com) along with common marketing and branding.

Nominations for new sites to be included in the Ecomuseum might come from the fact that someone lives next to York Minster, Edinburgh Castle or Linlithgow Palace and thinks that these nationally iconic buildings should be included for their part in the build-up to the battle. Or perhaps someone knows that their local church includes a memorial to the men of the village, town or city who went to the battle. Nominations could also be based on the fact that local or national museum have banners or flags, swords or armour that were at the battle. Or maybe that a particular community or location is the site of a legend, story or a tradition that is born of the battle. The Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum can connect sites of all type and scale.

If any individual, community group, society or organisation know of a link to Flodden and would like to be involved in the building the Flodden1513 Ecomuseum network to commemorate the quincentenary of the Battle, the Flodden 500 group would urge them to get in touch and nominate their site.

Nominations are being sought under 6 categories

• Sites that form part of the Battle Landscape
• Sites that form part of the wider indirect battle landscape
• Sites that memorialise the events of the Flodden Campaign
• Sites that have an association by legend or story or which have led to the forming of community tradition
• Sites that are associated by possession of an artefact related to the battle
• Sites of the same date that help us understand the 16th Century landscape of Flodden.
• Site of the same type that inform issues of Border Warefare

Community consultation dates to discuss the expansion of the Flodden 1513 Ecomuseum

More information and nomination forms can be found on the Ecomuseum website www.flodden1513.com and also on the visitnorthumberland.com Flodden battlefield page.

Additionally the group can be contacted to discuss nominations by emailing contact@flodden1513.com.

The deadline for nominations is 17th June 2012.

You can also download the full press release online.

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Kielder Vintage Car Rally on Sunday 13 May

As a ‘new’ car it had its faults – dodgy brakes, vague steering, a grumbling gear box and woodworm in the floor. And the wife’s reaction wasn’t all that good either when it pulled into the drive for the first time!

But now Peter and Kate Marshall from Hexham wouldn’t be without their prized 1936 Morris 10/4.

Peter, a former motor mechanic, bought the 1200cc model with just 77,500 miles on the clock and pop up indicators as a retirement project and then lavished 12 months of Tender Loving Care, stripping it down and rebuilding it bit-by-bit.

Now he’s adding an extra layer of polish to take part in the 6th Vintage Vehicle Rally being hosted by the Forestry Commission in Kielder Water & Forest Park on Sunday 13 May.  The event has grown to become a spectacular celebration of the golden days of motoring  and over 170 tractors, cars, motorbikes and buses will descend on 18th century Kielder Castle.

Peter said:

“It’s a lovely car and runs like clockwork. Originally it cost £175 and in its day it was quite step forward in motoring and the kind of vehicle the local professional would have driven such as the doctor or bank manager.  During the war they were used by the army bomb disposal squad.  My wife was a bit sceptical at first, but she loves it.  It polishes up really well.”

This year’s rally has been organised by Wesley Turnbull, from Bellingham, a retired Jumbo jet flight engineer.

“We’ve got motorbikes from the 1930s and all kinds of family cars spanning the decades,” said Wesley. “Interest in vintage vehicles is alive and kicking in the North East and Borders as the great turnout proves.”

A special walk will also be held during the event to mark the 150th anniversary of the famous Kielder Viaduct,  which carried its last train in 1958 and is now owned by the Northumberland and Newcastle Society.

The event runs from 10.30am to 4pm and entry is free. For further details contact Kielder Castle Visitor Centre on 01434 250209, or go to www.visitkielder.com.

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Tawny owl chicks in Kielder

Investigating the tangled relationships of Kielder’s Birds of Prey

A 26 year old research student is working the Forestry Commission to unravel the complex relationships between birds of prey in Kielder Water & Forest Park.

Goshawks, buzzards, ospreys, peregrines, sparrow hawks, kestrel, merlins and several owl species live in the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) Northumbrian wilderness, but little is known about the way they interact as a ‘feathered’ community and with other birds.

Now Sarah Hoy wants to shed light on this mysterious world.

She is striving for a postdoctoral degree at Aberdeen University, and her studies, part funded by the Natural Environment Research Council and Natural Research Ltd, will be much more than a desktop exercise.

For she will spend the better part of the next three years working with Forestry Commission rangers and ornithologists, putting down temporary roots in Kielder village.

“There are few places you could do this kind of research,” said Sarah. “Not only are there long established study populations of birds like goshawk, tawny owls and peregrine falcons in Kielder, but there is a mountain of data already collected which can be further analysed.”

For more than thirty years Kielder has been the centre of the UK’s longest running tawny owl research project of its kind and other species have also been monitored by experts. Research may probe what effect the presence of goshawks has had on the tawny population and how owl behaviour and foraging times have been affected. More light may also be shed on raptors predating other raptors -  a fairly common, but not well studied phenomenon.

Sarah, originally from North Lincolnshire, studied zoology at Manchester University and completed a Master’s degree in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation at Imperial College London.

Martin Davison, Forestry Commission ornithologist, said:

“It’s fascinating research, which could help our understanding of bird behaviour in what is a man-made forest. There are always winners and losers in nature and as Kielder matures some species do well, while others, like kestrel, decline. But fortunately human persecution, with birds being killed and eggs and chicks stolen, is not a major problem in Kielder.  That means it is possible to look at the way species naturally impact on each other.”

People can find out more about forest birdlife by taking part in an owl night at Kielder Castle on Friday 18 May as part of the Wild at Kielder season.  There will chance to join an evening visit to a Tawny owl nest box and watch chicks being ringed and weighed by experts.   Booking is required on 01434 250209 and the cost is £10.  It starts at 7pm. More information at www.visitkielder.com.

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Wallington House and Gardens

National Trust to debut new Wallace & Gromit animation over Jubilee Weekend

The National Trust has launched a campaign teaming up with national treasures Wallace and Gromit to help lead the country’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The loveable duo’s new mini animation will be shown for the first time ever at Trust places including Wallington in Northumberland.  The funny flick has been specially created for the National Trust festivities as part of their Summer of Celebration campaign and shows the pair preparing for the big weekend, by scaling the ladders to hoist the bunting up around a magnificent Trust manor.

The green grass carpet will be rolled out for the mini animation – A Jubilee Bunt-a-thon – and a behind the scenes documentary, which are to be exclusively screened at the Trust’s 70 Jubilee parties across the country. Their films have already met with the royal seal of approval with Camilla declaring that Wallace and Gromit are Prince Charles’ “favourite people in the world”.

The one-minute animation begins in the familiar setting of 62 West Wallaby Street with the ever faithful and long suffering Gromit sitting at his sewing machine making miles of bunting to adorn National Trust places across the country.

The film in numbers:

30 – number of people who contributed to the making of the film
3 – months it took to make
500 – hours taken to complete from storyboard to post production
60 – metres of bunting used to decorate West Wallaby Street and National Trust property
8 – hours spent brushing the grass with a fork to achieve the correct look
30 – kilograms of plasticine used
4 – number of Gromits used in filming
254 – weight in kilograms of the National Trust property in the film

Tony Berry, Visitor Experience Director of the National Trust, comments:

“The National Trust and Wallace and Gromit are two of Britain’s greatest treasures and we felt it fitting that in this summer of celebration we should bring them together. We are holding our very own premiere of Wallace & Gromit’s Jubilee Bunt-a thon at our properties. It was made exclusively for the National Trust and we are really excited that it will encourage the nation to join us for an extra special Diamond Jubilee celebration.”

Nick Park, creator of Wallace and Gromit, comments:

“I have to pinch myself when I think how far Wallace and Gromit have come; from ideas in my head, to ‘film stars’ working with great organisations such as the National Trust, which the nation holds dear to its heart.  At Aardman we are thrilled that Wallace and Gromit have had a chance to explore all the Trust has to offer – from helping to put up bunting to enjoying their Wensleydale cheese platter at a picnic. Wallace and Gromit are in for a cracking summer at the National Trust.

“The National Trust has a special place in my heart from a childhood memory of completing a paint- by- numbers at Stourhead, to Montacute House, on which we based Tottington Hall in the Curse of the Were-rabbit.”

The nation’s much loved comedy duo have paired up with the Trust for some cracking Jubilee parties this summer which as well as the debut of the mini animation and behind the scenes ‘making of…’ film, will also feature Wallace and Gromit model making workshops with trained Aardman animators, themed trails, a variety of fun games for children and exclusive themed retail and catering treats for all the family.

Wallace and Gromit themselves are due to visit Wallington in Cambo Northumberland to meet visitors and help with their very own bunt-a-thon record attempt.

Julie Tucker, events and promotions manager at Wallington said:

“We’re really excited to be the only National Trust place to welcome Wallace and Gromit for our Diamond Jubilee celebrations on Monday 4 June. As well as meeting these much loved characters, visitors can join the fun and games, add their ‘Best of British’ design to the Wallington Bunt-a-thon record attempt, or settle down on the grassy courtyard to watch the Royal Pageant on a large outdoor screen.

“We’re also holding a tea party where you can enjoy freshly made scones, cakes, sandwiches, sausage rolls and a nice up of tea in our street party style marquee. We’re encouraging people to book this early as places are limited.”

For more information on the event at Wallington log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events or call Wallington on 01670 773600. To keep up to date with news from the team at Wallington follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WallingtonNT

Wallace & Gromit’s Jubilee Bunt-a-thon will be shown on 4th June at Wallington as part of the Summer of Celebration Diamond Jubilee parties.  For a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Wallace and Gromit film visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallaceandgromit.

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Screen grab from the latest osprey footage

High definition cameras are giving experts the first close up views of pioneering ospreys in Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland.

The dramatic footage shows a female osprey calling for a fish and pacing her nest soon before laying two eggs on an artificial platform put up by the Forestry Commission in the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) wilderness.

Pictures – being beamed live to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre – also revealed that her male partner has an identification tag after being ringed as a chick.  Rangers are now trawling through the records to track down his origins.

Elisabeth Rowark, Director of the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, said:

“The pictures are stunning.  Last year the couple bred for the first time so we didn’t have cameras on them.  But over the winter the Forestry Commission has erected a CCTV link to reveal daily story of osprey family life.”

News from Kielder’s other nest – which in 2009 produced the first osprey born in North East England in at least two centuries – is also excellent.  CCTV has spied three eggs in the tree top eerie.

Martin Davison, Forestry Commission ornithologist, explained:

“We are excited by what we are seeing.  The female on the new nest is pretty noisy, staying put even before laying eggs to guard the site from other ospreys. That means the male must catch fish for her.  Getting such a clear view of the male’s white tag is also a massive bonus. Knowing where he was born will help us chart the recolonisation of this once extinct species back into England.  These are incredibly exciting times for everyone who loves these fish-eating superstars.”

New nest footage can be seen and downloaded at https://vimeo.com/41199271

You can also follow the fortunes of both nests at  http://kielderospreys.wordpress.com and get regular Twitter updates @KielderOspreys  To record your own osprey sightings go to the VisitKielder Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/kielder

Kielder Osprey Watch 2012 is being organised by the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, the RSPB and Northumberland Wildlife Trust.

The partners are working hard to ensure that the ospreys are here to stay by maintaining a high quality habitat in Kielder Water & Forest Park and safeguarding and monitoring the nest site.  To find out more go to the Ospreys page on visitkielder.com.

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Rob Mews from Northumbrian Water

A north east water worker is gearing up for the challenge of a lifetime to raise funds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, although his football loyalty lies with the Black Cats.

Rob Mewes, a Northumbrian Water employee from Washington, is planning a 324 mile charity cycle by circling the organisation’s famous Kielder Reservoir, not once or twice but an astonishing twelve times later this year.

The largest man made lake in northern Europe boasts a 27 miles shoreline and Rob’s mammoth ride is almost the equivalent length of the English Channel.

Since his father was diagnosed with the same condition as Sir Bobby in August 2010, Rob (33) has been determined to tackle the marathon distance over the course of three days.

Rob said: “Half the family supports Newcastle and half Sunderland but the one bond we all share is a deep respect for Sir Bobby and the foundation he began.

“My dad has a stage four brain tumour and my mum has made a move to part time hours now so she can take care of him. The foundation has been such a wonderful support to the whole family, especially my dad who is having such a tough time; I am determined to give something back.”

Sir Bobby and Lady Elsie launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in 2008 and it has gone on to raise more than £4million to help find more effective treatments for cancer.

The charity funds projects within the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust that directly benefit cancer patients from across the north east and Cumbria and which contribute significantly to international efforts and research into fighting the disease. This includes the clinical trials of drugs at the Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle.

Rob added: “I’m not a keen cyclist but I’m confident I can achieve my goal because I am mentally ready. I just need to start practicing cycling now! On a more serious note, once I set something in motion, I will definitely do it.

“I hope to raise £2,000 in total and would love the donations to start flooding in now to spur me on with my training.”

Pauline Buglass from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation said: “We’re very grateful to Rob for his efforts in aid of the charity. He’s obviously very determined and has strong personal reasons to want to raise funds to fight cancer.

“No doubt this will be a huge physical challenge for Rob and will involve a huge amount of training and preparation. We wish him all the luck in the world.”

Rob’s employer, Northumbrian Water, has started the ball rolling by donating £50.00 via an employee sponsorship fund called Cheque it Out.

The trail Rob will be using is the Lakeside Way, a multi user trail that encircles the shoreline of Kielder Water in Northumberland. Suitable for walkers, runners, cyclists and horse riders, it is 27 miles long and is open all year round. For more information on Kielder Water & Forest Park in Northumberland go to www.visitkielder.com.

Rob’s mammoth effort begins on Thursday 6 September 2012. Donate via www.justgiving.com/oneandonlynormanmewes or by sending a text to 70070 with GQHB91, space followed by the amount e.g. £10.

For more information about the event and Rob’s progress go to: www.facebook.com/rob.mewes or @MewesRob on www.twitter.com.

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Kielder Classic Rally 2012

Escorts, Chevettes and Porche 911’s were back in Kielder Water & Forest Park on Saturday (28 April) for an historic rally of epic proportions.

The spectacular 62,000 hectare Forestry Commission woodland – dubbed rallying’s Wembley for its stern test of man and machine – hosted the 21st Pirelli Rally.

Marking the milestone – and to celebrate over 50 years of car sport in England’s biggest forest – classic marques from the 1960s and 1970s went head-to-head to tackle tough forest stages before their modern day counterparts competed in the MSA British Rally Championship.

With over 50 entries this was the biggest classic car rally ever held in the forest and drivers were full of praise for the super-fast stages.

Winners included Nick Elliott and Dave Price and Julian Reynolds and Patrick Walsh, both in Escorts, and Rikki Profitt and Phil Harrison in a Porsche 911.

Classic rally cars tackled Kielder Forest once again on Saturday as part of the British Rally Championships. Photos: Mark Pinder.

Jonathan Farries from the Forestry Commission said:

“It was a stunning sight to see these historic rally cars back again as Kielder is a spiritual home of the sport.”

For a full race report go to http://www.pirelliinternationalrally.co.uk

You can find out more about Kielder Water and Forest Park on the visitkielder.com and visitnorthumberland.com official visitor websites.

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Submit your Northumberland photos

Join the “Image of Rural Europe” photography competition by submitting your photos of Northumberland.

With the support of the Northumberland National Park Authority, Northumberland Uplands Local Action Group is participating in a Rural Photo Competition organised by the European Network for Rural Development in Brussels. The themes for this competition are: Rural Youth; Rural People; The Spirit of Leader; Rural Diversity; Rural Environment and Rural Employment.

Professional, amateur and school aged photographers alike are encouraged to submit their photos on Rural Development in order to be in with a chance to attend a high profile awards ceremony, in the presence of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, on 27th June, 2012. The overall winning entries will be displayed at a major exhibition in the Berlaymont building, in Brussels from 22 June to 10 July, 2012.

How to enter

Click here to download the application form

If you would like to apply please complete the form and send this with your photographs to Tom Burston tom.burston@nnpa.org.uk or Philippa Craig philippa.craig@nnpa.org.uk. Photos should have a minimum size of 5MB, 300 dpi resolution.

Further details about the competition

Images of Rural Europe aims to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Rural Europe by collecting photos covering a variety of rural development themes, from all EU Member States.

This competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers who are resident in one of the EU Member States. Each entrant may submit as many photos as they wish.

Click here to download the flyer containing more about the photography competition

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Rally Car at Kielder

Escorts, Chevettes and Porche 911’s will be turning back the clock in Kielder Water & Forest Park on Saturday (28 April) for an historic rally of epic proportions.

The spectacular 62,000 hectare Forestry Commission woodland – dubbed rallying’s Wembley for its stern test of man and machine – hosts the 21st Pirelli Rally this weekend.

And to mark the milestone – and celebrate over 50 years of car sport in England’s biggest forest – classic marques from the 1960s and 1970s will go head-to-head to tackle tough forest stages before their modern day counterparts take to the forest as part of the MSA British Rally Championship.

Jonathan Farries from the Forestry Commission said:

“The classic cars will start under the battlements of 18th Kielder Castle and it will be a stunning sight to see them back again as Kielder is a spiritual home of the sport.  The competition will be hot throughout the day.”

The historic rally starts at 7.30am.  The first car is due to cross the finishing line at Carlisle racecourse after 2pm. For spectator viewing points and car parks in the forest visit http://www.pirelliinternationalrally.co.uk/2012/.

You can find out more about Kielder Water & Forest Park on the visitkielder.com and visitnorthumberland.com websites.

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The Romans return

Roman Soldiers are preparing to invade the National Trust’s Wallington in Northumberland this May Bank Holiday after calls from visitors for a repeat of last year’s popular family event.

Last May, over 8000 people turned out to see Wallington turn back the clock nearly 1900 years and find out what life was really like for the battle hardened warriors stationed on the bleak and brutal northern fringes of the Roman empire.

Aptly named ‘The Romans Return’ the event at Wallington on Sunday 6 and Monday 7 May will see re-enactors from York based company Comitatus, setting up camp in the central courtyard. Soldiers will be put through their paces with Latin drill as well as taking part in missile competitions and combat sparring while the Cavalry squadron will display their power and skill on horseback.

Julie Tucker, Events and Promotion Manager at Wallington tells us:

“Our Roman event was hugely popular last year. Many people who came along were keen to know whether we were planning to hold the event again. We’re hoping that this year’s event on the 6 and 7 May is just as popular. It promises to be a day packed full of fun that all the family can enjoy with some great demonstrations.”

Like the elite soldiers of the field Roman army, Comitatus riders are able to carry out horse archery and use the two-handed lance while riding without stirrups and guiding their charge with their legs alone.

Children will have the chance to handle everyday Roman objects in the encampment and see crafts being demonstrated as well as have a go at traditional 2,000 year-old games and take part in drill training.

If the discipline of being a rank and file foot soldier doesn’t appeal, then younger visitors can meet the cavalry soldier’s best friend at pat the pony sessions.

Meanwhile, the whole family can put their best foot forward on the Latin trail through Wallington’s woods with clues written in the language of ancient Rome.

Romans at Wallington Hall

Julie Tucker, Wallington’s events and promotions manager, says:

“Back in the second century AD, Wallington would have been north of Hadrian’s Wall in the heart of what the Romans saw as the barbarian lands and the end of civilisation as they knew it.

“It’s hard to imagine now just what a wild and inhospitable area this would have been 1,900 years ago, but Comitatus will be bringing the challenges of those times very much to life.”

It would have been normal for the Roman army to recruit young locals into their ranks to boost their numbers. Julie adds: “They would often take young children to bring up within the strong disciplinary regime of the army, turning them into effective and ferocious fighters – although they were often shipped overseas to do their training as the Romans were wary of local uprisings.

“Thankfully, any young recruits who take up the challenge to be put through their paces by the soldiers of Comitatus will be going home with their loved ones at the end of the day.

“This promises to be a fabulous event and a fun way for everyone to discover what it was like being a Roman on the northern frontier all those centuries ago.”

Find out more about “The Romans return to Wallington” on visitnorthumberland.com.

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Crossbills at Kielder Water & Forest Park

Nature fans are being urged to de-stress by turning off the MP3 player and tuning in to the dawn chorus.

The Forestry Commission is staging an early morning trek in Kielder Water & Forest Park on Sunday 6 May setting out at 5am – and this year’s choral offering could be a vintage one.

Thousands of crossbills have descended on the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) wilderness to feast on plentiful seed produced by a bumper cone crop.

Martin Davison, Forestry Commission Ornithologist, said:

“The forest was packed with crossbills last year so it really is something special to see them again.  It’s possible we have Britain’s biggest breeding population. With so many still here they are really turning up the volume on the dawn chorus.”

The crossbills could leave by the end of May – so the walk is a great chance to hear and see them.  Look for a bird hanging upside down like a parrot stripping seed from cones. Males are a distinctive brick-red and females greenish-brown.

The morning walk is being staged as part of International Dawn Chorus Day and Wild about Kielder season.  Wildlife fans will be joining other outings around the globe as the sun rises.

Martin Davison, who will lead the trek, added:

“Each dawn chorus is unique, building to a magnificent crescendo. I’ve spent over 30 years studying birds in Kielder, but it is still magical.”

Places must be booked on 01434 250209.  The cost is £14 including a post-walk breakfast at Kielder Castle. Bring walking boots, binoculars and waterproofs.

Find out more about Kielder Water & Forest Park on the visitkielder.com website and on visitnorthumberland.com.

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Gainsboroughs-Reynolds painting of Susannah Trevelyan

Two paintings that are nearly 250 years old and almost identical in content are set to be displayed together for the first time ever in an exhibition at a National Trust attraction in Northumberland.

The paintings of Susanna ‘Suky’ Trevelyan and Charlotte Walpole, the Countess of Dysart, show both ladies in identical poses wearing fairytale white and gold satin dresses with cascading ringlets. But questions still remain as to how they came to be so similar.

The portrait of Suky, which hangs in the house at the National Trust’s Wallington in Northumberland, was originally painted by Thomas Gainsborough in 1761. Last year the Trust revealed that Trevelyan family rumours that the original portrait had been over-painted were in fact true. The painting by Gainsborough was the subject of extensive re-working with approximately 80% of the original portrait having undergone change.

It is not known yet whether the adaptations to the painting were of the brush of Sir Joshua Reynolds, or more likely by one of the artists working for Reynolds at the time. But there is no doubt that Reynolds directed the change as the dress in a portrait by the artist of Charlotte Walpole, painted in 1775, which usually hangs in the Trust’s Ham House in Richmond upon Thames, is almost identical to the one of Suky.

Lloyd Langley, House and Collections Manager for the National Trust at Wallington tells us:

“It is extraordinary that we have in our collection a painting potentially by not one, but two, of England’s greatest artists, which is unusual and of great interest. Last year we were delighted to be able to prove scientifically that the over-painting of Suky was not just a rumour.

“To be able to display this painting for the first time alongside the almost identical painting of Charlotte Walpole, and to share the story of this discovery with our visitors is fantastic.”

Suky 9 - Reynolds painting of Charlotte Walpole

The exhibition A Tale of two Dresses will not only display the paintings side by side but will reveal the scientific work of Nicola Grimaldi of the Conservation Department of Northumbria University and show just what it was in Suky’s portrait that was over-painted.

Lloyd Langley continues:

“We were told last year that up to 80% of the Suky painting was re-worked but now we know a lot more about what was in the originally picture. X-rays show that she was in fact wearing a hat and a Van Dyke style blue dress with extravagant ruffles, and, that she was holding a little white dog, similar to those in other paintings we have at Wallington commissioned by Sir Walter Calverly Blackett, Suky’s uncle.”

The Trevelyan family story goes that the changes to the original portrait of Suky were made following a dismissive comment by the influential 18th Century social commentator and agriculturist, Arthur Young, who referred to the work as “a painting of hat and ruffles,” on a visit to Wallington sometime between 1768-1770. Young’s throwaway remark is said to have greatly irritated Sir Walter Blackett, who asked his friend Reynolds to work his own magic on the picture.

The exhibition A Tale of Two Dresses will be on display at Wallington from Saturday 28 April to Sunday 1 July. The house is open daily except Tuesdays from 12noon to 5pm, last entry 4.00pm. After the 1 July the exhibition will move to the Trust’s Ham House in Richmond upon Thames.

For more information about Wallington log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington or to keep up to date with what’s happening ‘like’ them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WallingtonNT  . Or learn more about Wallington House, Gardens and Estate on visitnorthumberland.com

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Skimming stones

The National Trust has launched a nationwide campaign to encourage sofa-bound children to take to the outdoors and enjoy classic adventures from skimming stones to building dens.

The charity’s 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾ campaign provides a checklist for under-12s (and those who are young at heart) including everything from running around in the rain and bug hunting, to setting up a snail race, damming a stream, flying a kite and making a (delicious) mud pie.

To kick start the campaign the National Trust is opening its doors for free on the 21 and 22 April and will be encouraging visits to the countryside places they cares for, which are always free to access. Properties including Wallington and Cragside in Northumberland and Gibside near Rowlands Gill will be free to the public to explore.

Tree climbing

The ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾’ initiative is in response to a report commissioned by the National Trust which reveals fewer than one in ten children regularly play in wild places; compared to almost half a generation ago, a third have never climbed a tree, one in ten can’t ride a bike, and three times as many are taken to hospital after falling out of bed, as from falling out of a tree.^*

Kids can pick up a free 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾ scrapbook from participating properties – and start ticking off their outdoor adventures to do list. Plus, the fun can continue at home by visiting nationaltrust.org.uk/50things where children can fill in their completed activities and earn points towards their very own explorer badge.

Mick Wilkes, Property Manager from the National Trust comments:

“We’re hoping lots of families will visit us when we open our doors for free on the 21 and 22 April and have a go at one of the 50 things we’re offering. The activities are aimed at helping families make the most of the outdoors, particularly at places like Gibside where through our programme of events or by simply visiting you can take part in many of the 50 things. To find out what you can do and where log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/50things”

Bug Hunting

Tony Berry, Visitor Experience Director of the National Trust, comments:

“We’re hoping that the nation’s children will embrace the 50 things and start having their very own outdoor adventures with their family, with our Free Weekend the perfect opportunity to get outside in the fresh air.”

The 50 Things to Do Before you’re 11 ¾:

1. Climb a tree
2. Roll down a really big hill
3. Camp out in the wild
4. Build a den
5. Skim a stone
6. Run around in the rain
7. Fly a kite
8. Catch a fish with a net
9. Eat an apple straight from a tree
10. Play conkers
11. Throw some snow
12. Hunt for treasure on the beach
13. Make a mud pie
14. Dam a stream
15. Go sledging
16. Bury someone in the sand
17. Set up a snail race
18. Balance on a fallen tree
19. Swing on a rope swing
20. Make a mud slide
21. Eat blackberries growing in the wild
22. Take a look inside a tree
23. Visit an island
24. Feel like you’re flying in the wind
25. Make a grass trumpet
26. Hunt for fossils and bones
27. Watch the sun wake up
28. Climb a huge hill
29. Get behind a waterfall
30. Feed a bird from your hand
31. Hunt for bugs
32. Find some frogspawn
33. Catch a butterfly in a net
34. Track wild animals
35. Discover what’s in a pond
36. Call an owl
37. Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool
38. Bring up a butterfly
39. Catch a crab
40. Go on a nature walk at night
41. Plant it, grow it, eat it
42. Go wild swimming
43. Go rafting
44. Light a fire without matches
45. Find your way with a map and compass
46. Try bouldering
47. Cook on a campfire
48. Try abseiling
49. Find a geocache
50. Canoe down a river

You can find out more about National Trust properties in Northumberland online at visitnorthumberland.com.

Which of these activities did you do by the time you were 11 3/4? Leave us a comment below!

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Roe Deer in Kielder Water & Forest Park

The Forestry Commission is urging nature lovers to wake at the crack of dawn and join an expedition to track down magnificent roe deer.

A spring safari setting out at 6am from Kielder Castle is being staged through the wilderness of Kielder Water & Forest Park on Saturday (21 April).

View the event details online

The event is part of the Wild about Kielder season giving people chance to see the forest’s stunning wildlife at close quarters.

Philip Spottiswood, Forestry Commission Wildlife Manager for Northern England, said:

“An early start gives us the best chance of seeing this shy creature in its natural setting.  We will keep our eyes peeled for young bucks, now sporting fully grown antlers, who are breaking away from small family groups to stake out territorial claims.”

This time of year is good to see deer as they are working extra hard to replenish fat reserves lost in the winter, especially pregnant females.

Places on the safari are limited as a mini-bus will be used to transport people through the forest.  The price of £16 per person also includes a full English breakfast at Kielder Castle. Bookings and further information on 01434 250209.  Bring binoculars and warm clothing.

Find out more about the event on visitnorthumberland.com and learn more about Kielder Water & Forest Park.

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Nesting chick in 2011

Another pair of rare ospreys has returned to Kielder Water & Forest Park in Northumberland.

The news that everyone has been waiting for duly arrived today when the birds were spotted in binoculars building their tree top nest on an artificial platform erected by the Forestry Commission.

The couple bred successfully for the first time in the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) wilderness last summer.

Earlier this month experts revealed that the original Kielder osprey couple – which produced the first chicks in 2009 – were also back for a fourth year running.

Philip Spottiswood, Forestry Commission Wildlife Manager for Northern England, said:

“News that both pairs are back aiming to raise more chicks is a massive step forward. The second pair arrived a little late, causing us one or two anxious moments.  But the prospects are looking good and we hope to add to the nine chicks raised in Kielder since the species returned to breed for the first time in at least two centuries in 2009.”

Last summer’s first time parents had two chicks – one of which was much less developed than the other, but which nonetheless pulled through to grace the skies above Northumbrian Water’s Kielder Reservoir along with its sibling.  The nest was monitored from afar to avoid disturbing the family.  But this year cameras have been erected and live footage will soon be beamed into Kielder Castle Visitor Centre and Leaplish Waterside Park for visitors to enjoy. A nest cam on the original nest is already showing live images at Kielder Castle.

On the “to-do” list for the ospreys is a rapid courtship, laying and incubating eggs, nurturing and feeding youngsters and teaching them how to hunt on Kielder Water.  And all before the end of August!

Second pair of Ospreys nest

Kielder is only the second location in England where ospreys have naturally recolonised after becoming extinct in the mid-19th century.

You can follow the birds’ fortunes at  http://kielderospreys.wordpress.com and sign up for regular updates on Twitter @KielderOspreys .

To record your own osprey sightings go to the VisitKielder Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/kielder.

Kielder Osprey Watch 2012 is organised by the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, the RSPB and Northumberland Wildlife Trust.

The partners are working hard to ensure that the ospreys are here to stay by maintaining a high quality habitat in Kielder Water & Forest Park and safeguarding and monitoring the nest site.

To find out more go to www.visitkielder.com or Kielder Water & Forest Park on visitnorthumberland.com.

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Knight opens Warkworth Castle

English Heritage has made a welcome return to its daily opening hours, with properties across the North East and Cumbria now open every day for the season.

In what will become a regular sight at English Heritage properties as the year goes on, a medieval knight took time out of his busy schedule, stopping by at Warkworth Castle to officially open the site for the season and offer visitors a glimpse into the months ahead. With a fun-packed programme of events to look forward to, people of all ages will be able to see history brought to life at sites across the region.

And this Easter, English Heritage is inviting people to spring into action by visiting a magnificent historical destination, including Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, Lindisfarne Priory, Dunstanburgh Castle and World Heritage Hadrian’s Wall sites, Birdoswald, Chesters, Housesteads Roman Forts and Corbridge Roman Town.

Caroline Sinclair, of English Heritage, said: “After a long winter, English Heritage is happy to be able to welcome visitors back to its sites on a daily basis. With Easter just around the corner, the school holidays will give families across the region the perfect excuse to make the most of the stunning destinations on their doorstep.

“Kicking off our exciting events programme, we’ve got the popular Easter Family Fun Trails returning to a number of our sites over the Easter weekend – guaranteed to put a spring in your step! What’s more, this season, we have pulled together our most adventurous programme of events to date. Our knight will be returning to Warkworth Castle in June, for the Medieval Royal Combat event and with everything from a sleepover at Belsay Hall on 19 May, to Vikings at Lindisfarne Priory and Belsay’s Grand Medieval Joust this summer, there is something to suit every taste.”

2012 is an exciting year for English Heritage. From castles and culture to coast and countryside, inside each and every English Heritage property is a fascinating historic experience. With an inspiring programme of events and new exhibitions now open at Carlisle Castle and Housesteads Roman Fort, there is something for people of all ages to enjoy this season with English Heritage.

For further information on property opening times and prices visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/northeast

Highlights in the English Heritage spring programme of events, include:

• ‘Dragon Family Fun Trail’ (Sat 21 – Sun 22 April, Chesters Roman Fort, 10am – 6pm). Calling all dragon hunters! St George needs your help to find all the mini dastardly dragons before they distress the damsels. Your dragon hunting skills will be rewarded with a certificate. Adults £5.20, concession £4.70 and children £3.10. English Heritage members and under 5s free
•  ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Presentations’ (Sat 5, Sun 6 & Mon 7 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 11am – 5pm). A weekend of fashion from the past, see a variety of sumptuous Tudor costume displayed in fashion presentations revealing the secrets of Tudor courtly costumes, Plus presentations dressing the gorgeous Georgians, for the fashion conscious gentleman and lady. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
•  ‘The Imperial Roman Army’ (Sun 6 & Mon 7 May, Chesters Roman Fort, 11am – 5pm, army displays at 12pm & 3pm). Join the armoured ranks of the world famous Ermine Street Guard as the Imperial Roman Army is put through their training. Witness the colourful and armed Roman soldiers as they practice their combat skills, battle tactics and artillery firepower that made the Roman army a formidable fighting force. Youngsters can join in the drill and training with sessions throughout the day. Adults, £6.50, concessions £6.00, children £4.50. English Heritage members free.
•  ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Display’ (Tue 8 – Fri 11 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 10am – 5pm). Tudor costume fit for a King and Queen on display. A variety of replica costume for Tudor nobles plus hands on activity for children. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
• ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Presentations’ (Sat 12 & Sun 13 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 11am – 5pm). A weekend of fashion from the past. To commemorate the Titanic’s first and only voyage, we invite you back to April 1912 and take you on an evocative journey into Edwardian society. Lucy Adlington from The History Wardrobe follows the story of famous dress designer Lady Lucy Duff-Gordon – known in Society as ‘Lucile’. A unique presentation of historical costumes, documents and survivor testimonies offers a fascinating glimpse into life on board Titanic… and the aftermath of the tragedy. Plus presentations dressing the Jacobeans, 17th Century costume from rich to poor. Plus sumptuous Tudor costume on static display. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
• ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Display’ (Mon 14 – Fri 18 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 10am – 5pm). Tudor costume fit for a King and Queen on display. A variety of replica costume for Tudor nobles, plus hands on activity for children. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
• ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Presentations’ (Sat 19 & Sun 20 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 11am – 5pm). A weekend of fashion from the past, taking a look at costumes from Victorian sporting life, appropriate for this year’s Olympics. And presentations of medieval dress for the nobles and servants. Plus sumptuous Tudor costume on static display. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
• ‘Museums at Night: Historic House Family Sleepover’ (Sat 19 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 7pm – 8am). Have you ever fancied a sleepover in a historic building? Here’s your chance especially for Museums at Night. Bring your family for a unique night time event. You’ll be met and welcomed to the Hall by our costumed performer where a welcome drink awaits. With 10 bedrooms inside the Hall, each family will have their own unique room. Belsay Hall has no furniture at all, but we provide camp beds for everyone – don’t forget to bring your sleeping bag and pillows. The night’s activities will start with a family tour of the Hall and its otherwise secret servant’s quarters, followed by a warming supper in the Hall’s tearooms. Then a twilight walk to the medieval castle for some storytelling in the Hall of the castle Keep, then back to the Hall for a bedtime drink. After your unique night, it’s off to the tea rooms again for a hearty Northumbrian breakfast to end your special sleepover. Suitable for families with children aged 8 +. Adults £55, concessions, £55, child £45. English Heritage members: Adults £50, concessions £50, child £40. Booking essential. To book please call the site on 01661 881636.
• ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Display’ (Mon 21 – Fri 25 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 10am – 5pm). Tudor costume fit for a King and Queen on display. A variety of replica costume for Tudor nobles men and women, plus hands on activity for children. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.
• ‘Fashion from the Past – Costume Presentations’ (Sat 26 & Sun 27 May, Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens, 11am – 5pm). A weekend of fashion from the past, taking a look at fashion with rations from the 1940’s contrasting with displays of Regency dress for dandies and ladies. Plus sumptuous Tudor costume on static display. Adults £7.70, concessions, £6.90, children, £4.60, family ticket £20.00. English Heritage members free.

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Wallington House, Gardens and Estate

Staff and volunteers at the National Trust’s Wallington in Northumberland are aiming to create Britain’s longest line of bunting for their summer celebrations and they need your help to do it!

Research shows that the longest bunting made so far was by the Fairtrade Foundation in London who hold the official Guinness record. They made a line of bunting 3,427.94 metres long in May 2011. Wallington’s aim, whilst not going for the official world record due to costs involved, is to make their bunting even longer with the help of their visitors to celebrate the ‘Best of British’ feel expected to sweep the nation this summer.

Gillian Mason, Visitor Experience Manager at Wallington tells us:

“The summer of 2012 is likely to be remembered as one of national pride as we celebrate the Diamond Jubilee and a number of sporting activities. At Wallington we wanted to do something celebratory that everyone could join in with and came up with the idea of the longest line of bunting ever! ”

In order to beat the record Wallington needs to make over 17,200 flags which when joined together will make around 3,440metres of bunting.  Gillian continued:

“So far we’ve sent out 2,000 flags to our local schools, community groups, colleagues and supporters asking them to design a flag which sums up their idea of the ‘Best of British’. The line of bunting has already started by visitors to the property who have also been decorating flags and we hope to have lots more in time for our Diamond Jubilee celebrations on Monday 4 June when the bunting will be draped around the central courtyard.”

The theme of the flag design should be Best of British and creativity so far has been really varied, as Gillian explains:

“We’ve had pictures of national significance including the Queen and her Corgis, a double-decker bus, bowler hats, brollies and rain clouds, and some that are more specific to Wallington such as red squirrels and cream teas.”

People wanting to add their contribution to the Wallington bunting, which is being donned the Wallington Bunt-a-Thon, can do so by visiting Wallington or logging onto their website to download a flag template.

Flags should be triangular shaped with two long sides of 23cm and one short top side of 16cm. The length from the top of the flag to the point should be 23cms. The flags can be made out of any sort of white or light coloured fabric such as cotton or bleached calico.

Gillian continued:

“We are keen for people to recycle unwanted material as much as possible – old sheets or curtain linings are perfect. If it’s a fabric that tends to fray then we’d suggest using pinking shears to cut the shape. We’re also looking for donations of fabric so if there are any fabric companies out there willing to help please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

Flags should be decorated using pencil or fabric crayons but not felt tips as the ink may run should it rain! You can also stitch your design. Complete designs should be sent to: Gillian Mason, Visitor Experience Manager, Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland NE61 4AR. For more information log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington or call 01670 773600. You can keep up to date with Wallington’s progress on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/WallingtonNT.

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