As the days get warmer and evenings become longer, May half term is the perfect time to head outdoors and experience some of nature’s wonders.The National Trust, which looks after some of the region’s most iconic countryside including Hadrian’s Wall and the Cragside estate in Rothbury, has an action-packed half term with events and activities every day to keep both you and your kids entertained.Lend a hand doing wildlife surveys, get a taste of adventure with rock climbing and abseiling or stay indoors and get crafty making your very own working lighthouse.Every trip to a National Trust place helps the charity to look after the special in its care, so your adventures will ensure that places can be explored for generations to come.Here are some great ways to keep kids and parents entertained this May half term…Coastal BioblitzHawthorn Dene, Durham CoastSaturday 23 May, 9am – 10pmLend a hand with a marathon habitat survey at Hawthorn Dene and help the National Trust improve wildlife conservation on the Durham coast. You don’t need any experience to get involved as the Trust Rangers will be on hand to offer expert guidance. Along the way you’ll pick up some wildlife spotting tips and identification skills, while surveying various habitats and species including rock pools, fresh water, grassland, woodland, insects, birds, bats, moths, mammals.Family Camping FestivalGibside, Rowlands Gill, GatesheadSaturday 23 May – Monday 25 May, 9am – 4pm, £70 per pitchGrab the tent from out the loft and give the kids a real taste of the wild! Spend two nights camping under the stars at Gibside and you can even bring the dog along too. Over the course of the three days you can take part in lots of family fun activities such as storytelling, bat walks, live music, den building and more.Musical Box in the Labyrinth and Sounds of Cragside Cragside House and Gardens, Northumberland Labyrinth Musical Box from 23 May, Sounds of Cragside Saturday 23 – Sunday 31 May.Can you find the Musical Box? Deep in the heart of the Labyrinth discover a brand new creative play and art installation as the treehouse is transformed into the Musical Box - harness your energy and transform it into light and sound! Discover the art of engineering and create your own power, with everything from a pedalo to bikes and hand cranks, to reveal a secret wonder of sound.Then, experience Sounds of Cragside: a weekend of audible treats to mark the opening of the Musical Box in the Labyrinth. Enjoy an exclusive concert or discover the sounds of the house on a new indoor sound trail. Tickets 50p.Explore the hidden sounds of Cragside with sound artist and Musical Box co-creator, Dan Fox: don some wireless headphones and delve into the hidden sounds of insects, water and the land to discover all of the weird and wonderful sounds of Cragside – eavesdropping has never been so much fun! Tickets: £5 and booking is essential.Shaun the Sheep’s Baa-rilliant Bank Holiday Wallington, Cambo, NorthumberlandSunday 24 & Monday 25 May, 11am – 4pmFlock to the National Trust’s Wallington to meet the nation's favourite fleecy friend, Shaun the Sheep, and enjoy two days of sheep-filled fun to celebrate the release of Shaun the Sheep The Movie on DVD on 1 June. There will be screenings of three special episodes of Shaun the Sheep and a behind the scenes look at how Shaun the Sheep The Movie was made. Families can enjoy craft activities, a character trail, tractor and trailer rides and sheep shearing demonstrations. Shaun himself will be making appearances throughout the day.Tours to the TopPenshaw Monument, Tyne & WearSaturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Monday, 10am-5pm, tours every 20 minutes, Tickets £5The iconic Penshaw Monument is a great place to survey your kingdom! Tours, led by National Trust guides, begin with a climb up the secret spiral staircase which leads to the Monument's rooftop walkway. Once at the top, there are spectacular views across Wearside and County Durham. What will you spot?Taste of AdventureAllen Banks and Staward Gorge, NorthumberlandSunday 24 May, 9.30am, Tickets £30If you love adventure then this is for you. The day includes a two hour underground exploration of Tyne Bottom Mine before you head to the National Trust’s Allen Banks for a spot of abseiling from the impressive Raven Crag. And before you head home, you’ll make a few craft items carved from the things you find in the woods around you.Family Games DaySeaton Delaval HallMonday 25th May, 11amA traditional day of family games awaits you at the National Trust’s Seaton Delaval Hall on bank holiday Monday. Families should flock to the Paddock for games including croquet on the lawn and ‘ride a cock horse’, races, hoops and to have a go at archery.Rock Pool RambleLindisfarne Castle, Holy Island, NorthumberlandMonday 25 May, 1pm, Free eventJoin the National Trust ranger for a ramble along the shore at Lindisfarne Castle. What will you discover hiding amongst the seaweed? There are crabs, sea urchins, lobsters and lots more species just waiting to be discovered by your young explorers.May half term funGibside, Rowlands Gill, GatesheadMonday 25 – Friday 29 May, 11am – 3pm, Free eventSearching for a week of planned activities for over May half term? Look no further. Join in at Gibside every day of the week for some real outdoor fun. Kick off the week with Explorer Monday then enjoy Foodie Tuesday, Wildlife Wednesday, Adventure Thursday and finish it all off with Fit Friday.Bewick’s Boredom BustersCherryburn, Stocksfield, Tyne ValleyMonday 25 May – Friday 29 May (except Wednesday), 11am – 3pm, FreeHailing from Northumberland, Thomas Bewick was a wood engraver and naturalist who revolutionised print art in Georgian England. But before that, he was the original ’50 Things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ child - staying outdoors late, climbing trees, swimming in the river and building dens in the woods. Over May half term join us at his birthplace and be like Bewick. On Monday we welcome Bewick’s Feathered Friends where you can see birds of prey – a subject Thomas enjoyed drawing, and then over the course of the week we’re hosting Bewick’s Boredom Busters and will indulge in all things outdoors, ticking many of the tasks off your ’50 Things’ list.South Tyne Trail Cycle RideAllen Banks and Staward Gorge, NorthumberlandTuesday 26 May, 10am, Free eventGet our your bike for an 11 mile ride along a section of the South Tyne Trail old railway line cared for by the National Trust. You’ll be rewarded with great views of the surrounding countryside. The star of the show is Lambley Viaduct which has the best views of all.Get Crafty - Design a working lighthouseSouter Lighthouse and The LeasTuesday 26 & Wednesday 27 May, 11am, £3You’ve seen the lighthouse in person, and now you can make your own. The National Trust has put together a pack of all the things you need to build your own lighthouse with its very own working light. Then it’s up to you to decorate it just the way you like.Get Crafty - Design a t-shirtSouter Lighthouse and The LeasThursday 28 May & Friday 29 May, 11am, £3Will you take inspiration from the seaside, the garden or the lighthouse itself when you design your own t-shirt? The National Trust team has t-shirts and an array of things to decorate them with - all you need is your imagination to create a masterpiece that you’ll wear with pride.Outdoor climbing adventureHadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort, NorthumberlandSaturday 30 May, 10am-1pm &1.30-4.30pm, Tickets £15Try rock climbing at the atmospheric Crag Lough just below Hadrian's wall and get a real feel for this fantastic outdoor sport. This three hour session provides an introduction to movement skills, belaying and climbing calls. You will also do some bouldering and bottom rope climbing, whilst developing movement skills and learning how to tie a figure of eight knot.50 things funWallington, NorthumberlandTuesday 26 May to Sunday 31 May 2015Enjoy wild play at Wallington and see how many of our 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾ activities you can do before you head home. Throughout the week there will be a chance to take part in a variety of activities from gardening to squirrel spotting and creatures of the night walks, cooking on a campfire to kite flying and orienteering to wild art.Ranger Bushcraft Day: SaplingAllen Banks and Staward Gorge, NorthumberlandThursday 28 May 2015, 10am, Tickets £10Head outdoors and experience nature in the National Trust’s Allen Banks woodland and work towards 'Sapling' status. If you already have bushcraft experience, or recently achieved 'Acorn' status at Housesteads, this is an adventure not to be missed. Try out advanced fire making techniques and cook marshmallows on an open fire, as well as mastering basic shelter building tips. There will also be a selection of other activities on offer which may include orienteering, nature relay, nightline, blind trail, camera clicks, shelter building, spiders web and using tools to make craft items such as cooking sticks and kazoos.For more information on what’s happening with the National Trust in the North East this May half term log on to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/northeast and click on ‘things to see and do’.

The Family Holiday Association yesterday launched Seaside Walk Week (23 to 31 May), the charity’s flagship fundraising initiative to mark their 40th anniversary. Beginning over the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May, Seaside Walk Week is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a guided walk at the seaside with good company and raise money for the charity.The Week comprises a series of guided walks along the UK’s coast, encouraging the nation to explore the Great British seaside with family and friends.Since 1975, the aim of the charity has been to help families have a break – anything from a simple day out to a few days in a caravan at the British seaside. Simple these trips may be, but for those affected by severe and sudden illness in the family, bereavement, disability, mental health and abuse, they can be nothing less than a lifeline. With trips to the British seaside at the heart of the Family Holiday Association’s work, Seaside Walk Week is a fitting way to celebrate four decades of providing breaks for struggling families.The families supported in this way are referred by professionals in the community such as teachers, social workers, health visitors and other charities – the people who are best placed to identify those who will benefit the most. For over half of these families it is the first time they have experienced a family holiday, bringing hope and happiness to children, parents and carers who are struggling with the worst challenges life can bring. By getting the chance to paddle in the sea, build that first sandcastle and share happy times just like other families, they can take home precious memories and a new sense of hope.Family Holiday Association celebrated the launch of Seaside Walk Week by organising a daytrip to Bristol Aquarium for families from a North London Children’s Centre. The trip was made possible through support from including First Great Western, the Aquarium, HF Holidays and Usborne Books.The official seaside walks will range from two miles to ten miles in length, giving families and their children the chance to get involved, as well as more experienced walkers. With a common finishing point at each walk location, participants will have the chance to socialise, celebrate and refuel together.Neil Oliver, TV presenter added, “I really want to encourage everyone lucky enough to enjoy holidays to support Seaside Walk Week. The money we raise will help children see the sea for the first time in their lives. Together we can give families who can’t see any escape from the daily struggle of impoverished lives, a break.” Anyone interested in participating in Seaside Walk Week can register at SeasideWalkWeek.org.uk. It's just £15 per adult to register, £5 for children aged 5 to 16 and under-fives go free. There is no minimum sponsorship required but, as it's our 40th anniversary, it would be great if each family or group could raise £40 or more.Seaside Walk Week will take place thanks to our partners including First Great Western, The Guild of Registered Tourist Guides, HF Holidays, Higgidy, Hildon Water & Big Welsh Walk, Usborne Books, VisitEngland, Welcome to Yorkshire, Wightlink and YHA.

Northumberland’s famous dark skies put on a good show for runners at Kielder Water & Forest Park this weekend.More than 80 people turned up to take part in the first ever ‘Dark Skies Run’ on Saturday April 18, 2015.The race, which started during the daylight, saw entrants running through the sunset and cross the finish line under the stars of the darkest night skies in England.Race Director, Phill Turton said: “All our entrants had been speculating for weeks on social media as to what the weather would be like but the weather Gods were definitely smiling on us!“While the temperatures plummeted to nearly zero degrees late on, there was virtually no cloud and the night sky was simply stunning.”One of the largest Dark Sky Parks in the world, Kielder was awarded gold tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies association in December 2013, making it the perfect venue for the ultimate starlit running challenge.Organised by Trail Outlaws and supported by Northumbrian Water, the event followed the Lakeside Way trail around northern Europe’s largest man-made lake.Runner David Toth, who took part in the 26.5 mile challenge, said: “Seeing the day turning to twilight and the subsequent sunset over the water was stunning and then running the last few miles under millions of stars was absolutely breathtaking.”For one racer, the Dark Skies Run was the finish of an incredible day that had started at midnight on Friday April 17.Sunderland Stroller, Malcolm Cox, ran an unofficial marathon distance around Lake Windermere, Cumbria, before cycling the 90 miles to the start line of Kielder’s Dark Skies Run.Not only did Malcolm finish his second long-distance run of the day, he won the Men’s over 50s category with a race time of 4 hours and 20 minutes.The overall winner of the Dark Skies Run and first in the Men’s over 40 category was Philip Hewitt who completed the race in 3 hours 50 minutes and 35 seconds.Claire Baharie, also a member of Sunderland Strollers, was the first female to cross the finishing line in 4 hours 12 minutes and 10 seconds.

The annual excavations at the Roman fort of Vindolanda in Northumberland are starting this year with the help of some very special volunteers. The Vindolanda Trust has given 10 of its highly sought after excavation places in the opening two week period to Operation Nightingale, an award winning project run by the Defence Archaeology Group (DAG) which uses archaeology to aid the recovery of injured service personnel.Under the supervision of experienced Vindolanda archaeologists, serving personnel and veterans will be working alongside volunteers from around the world with the shared ambition of discovering more about this fascinating Roman site between 30th March and the 10th April. The team will be carrying out their operation ‘Exercise Mars Tablet’ in the late 4th Century barrack blocks within the south east quadrant of the last stone fort, near the area where last year a volunteer at the site uncovered an exceptionally rare gold coin of the Emperor Nero.Dr Andrew Birley, Director of Excavations explained: '‘The serving personnel and veterans will be involved in everything we do, as well as introducing the skills of excavation, surveying, artefact handling and recording, the volunteers at Vindolanda also foster mutual support, lasting friendships and take away with them some of the pride and passion which Vindolanda has in abundance’Some of the service personnel and veterans have both physical and mental injuries sustained in operations in Afghanistan and other environments and Dr Birley noted: ‘there will be challenges for individuals and for us as a team. We are aware that one gentleman has no upper limbs due to his combat injuries and another is registered blind, but support is in place to ensure that all participants can gain as much as possible from the experience within their individual abilities’. Sgt Diarmaid Walshe RAMC, Project Manager of the Defence Archaeology Group and himself a qualified archaeologist commented: ‘We are very fortunate to be working with the Vindolanda Trust on this unique site. Our programme uses archaeology as a pathway to their recovery, giving individuals something useful and rewarding to do which in turn can help them rebuild their self-esteem, provide them with a sense of purpose and give them something positive to strive for’. It also has the addition benefit to prove a focus to both our service personal and veterans to put something back into the community as a way of showing their gratitude for all the public support shown to them.In addition to the service personnel who are taking part in the dig the Vindolanda Trust is extending its generosity to serving personnel who wish to come along and support their colleagues by giving them free entry into the site. The Trust’s spokesperson said: ‘we hope the public will come show their support for the volunteers. Serving military personnel will be admitted free if they show their MOD card to our staff during these two weeks’.The Vindolanda excavations run this year from the 30th March to the 25th September and will see nearly 400 volunteers take part in the longest ongoing excavation on Hadrian’s Wall. Last year was an outstanding season for discoveries and with the excavations continuing in the same areas it looks like 2015 may be just as exciting.

Birders in Northumberland are in a flap after two amorous ospreys returning from Africa before their other halves have enjoyed a sneaky fling.The two-timing birds are the first ospreys to be seen returning to Kielder Water & Forest Park, with the male arriving first and the female three days later.With their partners still away, they shared a romantic encounter before the male sealed their new found affection with a gift - a freshly plucked trout from Kielder Water.The rare species, which normally form faithful pairs for life, were extinct in England for 150 years but have bred successfully in the Park every season since they returned to the North East in 2009.This is the first year at Kielder that an established female has returned before her male and another established male is already present without his female partner to court.While the ospreys’ fowl play might initially ruffle the feathers of their partners, it’s hoped that they too will return home safely to breed with their respective half and all will be forgotten.Joanna Dailey, Kielder Osprey expert volunteer, said: “We’re very excited by the arrival of our birds. “This ‘hedging the bets’ is normal behaviour, and it is fascinating to observe, but we hope it will end very soon with the arrival of the long term partners!” The antics are being watched by visitors through a camera on the nest and footage is beamed to visitors at Kielder Castle.Wildlife lovers can also keep up to date with the story as it unfolds through the Kielder osprey blog at kielderospreys.wordpress.com.

Four Northumberland busesses have been named as a finalist in the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2015.Tourism Event of the Year - Kielder Winter WonderlandLarge Hotel of the Year - Matfen HallHoliday Park/Holiday Village of the Year - Seafield Caravan Park, SeahousesSustainable Tourism Award - St Cuthbert's House B&B, SeahousesThe finalists now go forward to the glittering Awards Ceremony which is being held on Monday 11 May 2015 at the Sage Gateshead. The Awards will take place in the North East for the first time, coinciding with an exciting year that also sees Rugby World Cup 2015 coming to NewcastleThe VisitEngland Awards attracted a total of 345 applications. All 70 finalists will have to wait until the Awards Ceremony to find out which award they will receive. All are guaranteed to receive either a Gold, Silver, Bronze or Highly Commended Award.James Berresford, Chief Executive of VisitEngland said: “It’s been another successful year for our Excellence Awards as we’ve received hundreds of applications of an extremely high standard. That’s why all the finalists should be incredibly proud that they’ve been short-listed against such tough competition. I’d like to congratulate all the finalists who now represent the top five in their category in England and wish them all the very best of luck on Awards night at the Sage Centre in Gateshead - a spectacular venue to celebrate the industry’s best.”Speaking on behalf of Northumberland Tourism, general manager Jude Leitch said: "We are so proud of everyone at St Cuthbert's House, Matfen Hall, Kielder Winter Wonderland and Seafield Caravan Park. They have done a remarkable job to be nominated as finalists and we wish them every success at the VisitEngland Awards."

A new music and creative arts festival for over 18s taking place on Beal Farm Northumberland this September 4th - 6th has revealed its first wave of acts. Music will be showcased from a range of internationally renowned artists, as well as a selection of up and coming acts and North East talent. Headliners for the festival include Reverend and The Makers, Craig Charles, DJ Yoda, Smoove and Turrell and The Skints. Further acts including another Friday evening headliner are still to be revealed and will be announced in due course.Set within 4 different marquees opposite the Holy Island, entertainment will be on offer from the Friday evening, all day Saturday and into the early hours of Sunday. A great range of North East talent will be showcased including; Nadine Shah, The Lake Poets, Johnny Dickinson, Hannabiell and Midnight Blue, Frankie & The Heartstrings, The Happy Cats, Trev Gibb, Backyard Rhythm Orchestra, Shields, Slow light Quartet, Mister Tooley, World Headquarters (WHQ) and Dancing with Ghosts.The first wave line up also includes internationally renowned Ghetto Funk All-stars and acts JFB, Jackie Oates, The Church, Sean Taylor and The Tribe.The Lindisfarne Festival will be a truly niche, intimate 2 day camping festival with a capacity for 2000. The event promises to have something for everyone and includes music from indie rock, soul and funk, blues, folk and jazz to hip hop.Tickets are available to buy online at £78 for the weekend or £50 for the Saturday from 9am on the 24th March via http://www.lindisfarnefestival.com/. Ticket prices include camping and entertainment for either 1 or 2 nights.Conleth Maenpaa, Owner of Nokomis and Bor Events and Founder of Lindisfarne Festival commented: “We are delighted with the artists we have managed to secure for our inaugural Lindisfarne Festival. Being in its first year it was important that we started off small to create an intimate setting, whilst securing a range of credible acts and entertainment. We feel we have something for everyone. A great combination of internationally renowned performers as well as a range of up and coming artists too. It was also very important that we secured a good concentration of acts from the North East, showcasing the amazing breadth of local talent we have here and capturing a strong regional flavour.”Conleth Maenpaa added:“Whilst the heart of any festival is the music, it is important to add that Lindisfarne Festival aims to be so much more with a range of creative therapies, wonderful gastronomy and the breath-taking back drop of Holy Island. We do hope people will join us in making this an event to remember and one that will become part of the fabric of the North East for years to come.”Further details of the festival are available via http://www.lindisfarnefestival.com/ or on our facebook and twitter pages @lindisfarnefest

Battlesteads Hotel and Restaurant in Wark, near Hexham, is proud to announce the opening of its new on-site observatory. Launching in March 2015 the observatory is located within the hotel grounds, sitting at the edge of the Northumberland National Park which gained Dark Sky Park status in December 2013. The Northumberland National Park is the largest protected Dark Sky Park in Europe, offering an unrivalled vantage point from which to admire the county’s dramatic night-time sky.The observatory will be fully accessible throughout the night to guests staying in one of the hotel’s five newly constructed eco-lodges. Facing south, it can accommodate up to 25 budding or seasoned astronomers and is equipped with the latest telescopes chosen for their technical prowess and ease of use. These include a Celestron C11 OTA on a EQ8 mount, an enormous set of 25 x 100 mounted binoculars specifically for guests with wheelchairs, plus a range of smaller telescopes targeted at true beginners.Under the watchful eye of Roy Alexander, professional astronomer and teacher, Battlesteads will run courses targeted at all levels of stargazer, from introductory ‘Get to know your telescope’ sessions to sessions focussing on identifying and tracking some of the night-sky’s star performers.Courses will be priced from £15 and the eco-lodges are priced at £165 per night for bed and breakfast based on two people sharing.Commenting on the Dark Sky Observatory, Richard Slade, owner of Battlesteads, says:“This marks an exciting new chapter for Battlesteads. We have had a vision to open up our beautiful skies to guests for many years and to see these plans now come alive is out of this world. Astro-tourism is an emerging and growing leisure market. With such a world-class environment for studying the stars on our doorstep it made sense to embrace this and add to the many reasons to visit Battlesteads and the county of Northumberland.”The observatory has been constructed and developed in accordance with Battlesteads’ ongoing green credentials, using sustainable materials and powered by the hotel’s 36-panel solar PV tracker. Previously awarded a Platinum level rating in TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders Programme in 2014, a scheme that helps travellers make greener choices when deciding on a hotel trip, Battlesteads also boasts a Three Star Sustainability Champion status from the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA), and was previously voted Considerate Hotel of the Year (Considerate Hotelier) and Green Hotel of the Year (Hotel Cateys) in 2011.The project is supported by a Rural Economy Grant, North East Small Business Growth Fund, for which the funds are provided by the Rural Development Programme for England. Defra is the Managing Authority, part financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in rural areas.For more information on Battlesteads’ Dark Skies Observatory, the astronomer courses available and to book your stay visit www.battlesteads.com.

The delights of Alnwick have been exposed to a whole new audience as the Downton Abbey Christmas special, filmed in the Northumberland town, screened in America this morning.The historical drama has been a big hit in the States, showing on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) on Sunday evenings and attracting around nine million viewers, placing it second only to the CBS channel in the ratings for the 9pm slot.The Alnwick episode hit US screens at 2am (UK time) on the east coast and 5am on the west coast.With such a high-profile exposure, it will be viewed as another huge boost for the tourism industry in the town which relies heavily on the visitor economy.Almost six million viewers on this side of the Pond tuned in to ITV to see the Christmas Day episode, which used locations in and around Alnwick Castle during filming last summer.The quintessentially British series has won a string of awards in the US, including the award for outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series at the Screen Actors Guild Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday, January 25, 2015.And Joanne Froggatt landed the gong for best supporting actress in a series, mini-series or TV movie at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, January 11, 2015, for her role as maid Anna Bates. She won the award for a rape storyline which shocked its devoted viewers. The star’s character was attacked by the valet of a visiting guest and although no sexual violence was shown, the scene prompted 244 complaints to the broadcasting regulator Ofcom. Story from Northumberland Gazette

The beginning of March heralds the start of a new visitor season for some of the region’s best loved attractions, and this year there are lots of new things to discover.Iconic buildings including Cragside, Wallington and Souter Lighthouse are all dusting down the furniture to open their doors to the thousands of visitors who enjoy National Trust attractions each year.This year, the Trust is opening up new spaces at Wallington and tempting visitors with tasty treats from the new bakery and butchery at Gibside, and from Cragside’s newly restored kitchen range. The conservation charity will also be celebrating 90 years caring for the Farne Islands on the Northumberland Coast and 25 years caring for Souter Lighthouse in South Tyneside.Joanna Royle, Head of Marketing and Supporter Development for the National Trust said:“Every year we welcome over 1.7 million visitors to National Trust places in the North East, from tourists visiting for the first time to family members who enjoy events and activities on weekends and school holidays. We’re constantly looking for ways to improve the experiences we offer our visitors and supporters, to make their visit as enjoyable as possible. Our aim is for people who love the places we look after to continue to support us by visiting regularly, joining as members or volunteering. It's only through this type of support that we can exist as a charity.”With a new visitor season just around the corner, here are just some of the highlights you can expect from the National Trust across the North East in the year ahead….Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland2015 is general election year and the Trust has got campaign fever at Wallington, the home of the very political Trevelyan family. Beginning his political career at the age of 22, Sir Charles Trevelyan was passionate about politics and people. His socialist beliefs led him to give his 13,500 acre family estate to the National Trust back in 1941, to be enjoyed by everyone for generations to come.This generous gift is at the heart of what is set to be a very democratic year at Wallington, beginning with the opening up of the west wing of the house. From late March to June, visitors can join a tour to see the west wing for the first time, hear stories of the Trevelyan family who lived there, and cast their vote on its future use. Allen Banks and Staward Gorge, NorthumberlandAfter Rangers caught an Otter family on video on the river Allen for the first time this winter, the National Trust were devastated when the wildlife camera was later stolen. Spring sees a turn-around in the charity’s luck as environmentally conscious wine brand Banrock Station has come forward with funding not only to replace the stolen equipment, but also to help protect Otter habitat on the river. This money will enable National Trust Ranger’s to monitor the Otter family to see if any more young are born this summer and identify where habitat improvement work can be done along the river. The funding has been secured through Banrock Station’s ‘Vote For Nature’ initiative in partnership with the National Trust. Launched last year, the initiative asked the nation to decide how £100,000 should be shared between National Trust projects benefitting five endangered species; pine martens, puffins, red squirrels, bats and otters. Allen Banks has also been successful in securing funding to monitor the Red Squirrel population in the area.Gibside, Rowlands Gill, GatesheadIt’s all about getting a taste of the region at Gibside this spring as the newly opened butchery and bakery get into full swing. Housed in a new building within Gibside’s market square, where regular farmers’ markets take place, the butchery and bakery give local suppliers the facilities they need to help their businesses thrive. In addition, Gibside has converted more spaces into creative studios. Gibside is the National Trust’s fastest growing attraction in the North East, with visitor numbers increasing from 65,000 to 200,000 in the last ten years. It’s easy to see how Gibside’s diversification benefits both local businesses based there, and the Trust as a charity which relies heavily on visitor support. Next time you’re there we’d recommend a pizza from the wood fired oven.Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, South TynesideThe National Trust first opened the doors of Souter Lighthouse to visitors on 19 July, 1990. 25 years later and it’s on course to have one of its most successful years to date with over 28,000 expected. In its 25th year, Souter will be carrying out major restoration work to the metal and glass diamond panels in the lantern room at the top of the tower. Outside along The Leas, The Trust is working with the local Coastal Conservation Group to undertake the first ever annual wildlife survey of this stretch of coastline. This includes an intensive eight week Storm Petrel ringing project, the longest of its kind.Cragside, Rothbury, NorthumberlandVolunteers at Cragside will be getting to grips with Victorian cooking in April on the newly restored kitchen range. Thanks to money raised through raffle ticket sales last year, the National Trust has restored the kitchen range in Lord Armstrong’s impressive kitchen, which has the first example of a working dishwasher, a service lift and a water powered spit. Victorian baking days will take place every Wednesday in the house and visitors will be invited to taste a slice of Victorian life with a variety of historical cakes.Lindisfarne Castle, Holy Island, NorthumberlandLindisfarne Castle is showing its age and is currently experiencing severe water ingress problems that are affecting the external stonework, internal plaster and decor of the building. The castle has 101 historic windows, 38 of which currently leak in bad weather.In 2014 the National Trust undertook survey work to inform a programme of works going forward. This summer, they will begin trial works to investigate the best conservation techniques to help make the building watertight for the future. The conservation work will begin in 2017, and is estimated to cost over £1million. The Trust will be launching a major fundraising campaign to help fund the work.Farne Islands, NorthumberlandThe Farne Islands are one of the most exciting seabird colonies in England with unrivalled views of 23 species, including around 37,000 pairs of puffins. It's also home to a large grey seal colony, with more than 1,000 pups born every autumn. 2015 is the 90th anniversary of the acquisition of the Farne Islands by the National Trust. The conservation work carried out by the National Trust has resulted in a thriving natural habitat for wildlife, making it one of the most important seabird nature reserves in the country.Seaton Delaval Hall, NorthumberlandThe gardens and grounds at Seaton Delaval Hall are sure to put a spring in your step this season, with new woodland walks enabling you to enjoy the beautiful displays of bluebells and historic daffodils. Families can enjoy a year of Georgian themed activities and events and look out for newly carved Delaval sheep. The Central Hall will also be fully open after a number of years of major conservation work.Washington Old Hall, Tyne & WearThe National Trust will be bringing a warm glow to the inside of Washington Old Hall this year. Six out of the seven fireplaces in the hall have been fitted with a realistic fire setting, giving you a better idea of what it would have looked, felt and even smelt like in the 17th century.Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads FortRekindle your love for Hadrian’s Wall this year with guided walks and talks from experts on Saturday 18 April to celebrate World Heritage Day – the International day for Monuments and Sites. The day aims to highlight the importance of conserving monuments and sites of cultural heritage as well as celebrating the diversity of our heritage. The National Trust look after six miles of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hadrian’s Wall from Sewingshields in the east to Cawfields in the west. The charity work in close partnership with English Heritage to conserve Housesteads Roman Fort, one of the best preserved Roman Forts in Britain

Runners are being given an out of this world opportunity to race under the darkest night skies in England.The inaugural ‘Dark Skies Run’ at Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland, will take place on Saturday April 18, 2015.Kielder was awarded gold tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark Skies association in December 2013, making it the perfect venue for the ultimate starlit running challenge.Organised by Trail Outlaws and supported by Northumbrian Water and the Forestry Commission, the 26.5 mile challenge will start at Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centre and follow the Lakeside Way trail around northern Europe’s largest man-made lake.Entries into the unique race, which will take place during International Dark Skies week, will open at midday on Sunday February 8.With space for just 300 people to take part, event organisers are urging people to book their place quickly.Ultra Marathon runner and organiser, Phill Turton said: “We’ve ran in events all over the north of England, but a late training run around Kielder Reservoir was something we’d never experienced before.“The combination of the stunning Lakeside Way Trail and Kielder’s darkening skies made this something really special. It sounds crazy but it wasn’t just running, it was an almost spiritual experience and we knew we had to share it with other runners in an organised event.”Customer Experience Manager at Northumbrian Water’s Leaplish Waterside Park, Peter Pattinson, said: “We’re really excited about this long distance race. It’s a special opportunity for runners to take advantage of our starry skies as this is a run that’s not normally allowed. Safety is our top priority – the event is organised by professionals and head torches are mandatory.“This event adds to the growing number of sporting events available at Kielder both on the water and in the forest.”Entries are open from midday on Sunday February 8 at www.trailoutlaws.com. The price is £40 and entries are restricted to over 18s only. ENDS For media information, contact Janine Scott, communications advisor from Northumbrian Water, on 0191 301 6713 or [email protected] (photo credit Ian Glendinning)Notes to editorsKielder Water & Forest Park is a growing destination for sporting events. Only this week, Steve Cram unveiled a new Half Marathon race at the Kielder Marathon weekend held on 3-4 October 2015. The weekend includes the Kielder 10K, Run Bike Run and Junior Races. Entries are available at www.kieldermarathon.com.About Kielder Water & Forest ParkKielder Water and 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 awarded the number one tourism experience in England by Visit England 2013, and the most tranquil place in England by the Campaign to Protect Rural England. For more information see www.visitkielder.com.About Trail OutlawsTrail Outlaws was set up in 2014 by North East based Ultra Marathon Trail Runners Phill Turton and Tim Bateson. Their aim is to promote trail running along the trails they love to run in the North East. As well as the Dark Skies Run, 2015 sees the first running of the 200km “Sandstone Way Ultra Marathon” which allows people to run the full length of Northumberland in one go and the “St Cuthberts Ultra Marathon” which starts on Holy Island and follows the 100km St Cuthberts Waymarked trail into Melrose in Scotland. They are also currently developing an urban trail series with the aim of highlighting some of the hidden gems that exist on the outskirts of many of the regions towns and Cities. The first of these events was a half marathon and 10km trail event at Penshaw Monument in Sunderland which was hugely successful and is now into its second year, with an additional marathon event. To learn more visit www.trailoutlaws.com or call 07897 700059.

The hugely popular Wooler Wheel cycle sportives will number three in 2015, with a second cross-border event added to the calendar.Two of the rides will be limited to 1,000 riders and the other 500, and as the word continues to spread about the highly respected Wooler Wheel events it is more important than ever to enter early.Entries for the Wooler Wheel Borderlands in May, the new Big 'Un in July, and the Classic in October are now all open via the British Cycling website.Beth Mills of Wooler Cycle Hub said: "The Wooler Wheel events have grown year-on-year, and we are delighted to have now created the 'Triad', with the launch of our second cross-border ride - the Wooler Wheel Big 'Un."Many riders have tackled the previous two Wooler Wheel sportives in the same year, and we have now issued our entrants with a new challenge - to join the Wooler Wheel 300 Club by completing the three longest distances in 2015. Those riders who do so will cover just over 300 miles, and we will recognise that achievement appropriately."Beth added: "The Wooler Cycle Hub's 'Routemaster' has created a fantastic challenge with the Big 'Un, taking riders around the Cheviots, along the south bank of Kielder Water and past the Kielder dam, and all avoiding the few busy roads in the area. This is a wonderful ride, aimed at elite riders, which covers 200km of some of the most incredible cycling roads in north Northumberland and the Scottish Borders."Once again the 2015 rides will all start and finish at John Swan Ltd's auction mart in Wooler, and the organisers are indebted to the local company for their support. Further support for the 2015 events has come from Kielder Water and Forest Park, Marshall Leisure, Doddington Dairy and Northumberland National Park. Edinburgh Bicycle Co-operative have continued their unstinting support of the events and will again provide mechanical support on the rides."We could not run the Wooler Wheel events without the support of all our partners, sponsors and especially all the volunteers who help to make the rides so special for those taking part," Beth said."Time after time the feedback we get from riders after the events is full of praise for our cheery marshals who provide encouragement to riders and of course for the wonderful routes themselves, which show off the very best of our region."We are looking forward to welcoming even more cyclists to north Northumberland and the Scottish Borders in 2015 with the expanded calendar of Wooler Wheel rides. We established the rides to bring people to the area, and in turn give local businesses a boost, and as our events continue to grow and rider numbers increase so too does the impact on the local economy, which is as important now as it has ever been." Wooler Wheel route descriptions:Saturday, May 16 - WW BorderlandsA repeat of the sportive introduced in 2014, with routes of 60, 100 and 170km, and a dedicated junior sportive of 30km.The 170km ride takes in some of the best cycling routes in north Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, and iconic viewpoints, including Lindisfarne and Bamburgh castles, Scott's View near St Boswells, and the memorable climb up to Whitton Edge.Entries close on May 3.Saturday, July 25 - WW Big 'UnA complete circumnavigation of the High Cheviots on quiet roads covering 209km (130miles), with an estimated total ascent of 3200m and a maximum altitude of 396m.On reaching Kielder Castle, around the halfway mark, riders will not only be met with sight of a feed station but also the opportunity to grab a free sports massage. This ride does not go down any stretches of the A68.Entries close July 12.Saturday, October 3 - WW ClassicThe original Wooler Wheel, and still a firm favourite. With routes of 50 or 100km, this is a great introduction for first time sportivers, but is still demanding enough for experienced cyclists. It is also the perfect way to wind down the season for elite riders.Entries close September 20.