Enjoy a day out fit for a King and his Queen Consort at award-winning Bamburgh Castle where a majestic line up of special events is planned to celebrate the Coronation Weekend (Saturday May 6th to Monday May 8th). Based on Bamburgh’s royal past over the centuries and the monarchs who have called the Castle home or visited the village, events will be running at the iconic coastal fortress inspired by kings from the Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria right through to King Charles III. Starting with the 6th century, King Oswald is in the Castle with his army of followers in the form of the brilliant Acle Re-enactors. Visitors are invited to step back in time to 633 when Bamburgh was a royal citadel and home to the Kings of Northumbria. King Oswald will be looking for volunteers to train as his warriors - but are you brave enough to fight for King and country? Rule from on high and have a coronation of your own and be crowned King or Queen of the north, 150 feet above the shore on the Castle's Throne - a replica of the throne Saxon warriors once swore allegiance to the King in medieval times - see the original throne inside the Castle Staterooms. History lovers and fans of The Last Kingdom and newly released feature length special Seven Kings Must Die, will know Bamburgh Castle is the real Bebbanburg and Uhtred the Bold was once its ruler. Coronation special 'Follow in the Footsteps of Uhtred' tours with Ragnar the Viking will be taking place over the weekend. Tours includes entry into the Castle grounds and Staterooms where an exclusive The Last Kingdom exhibition with new interpretation of costumes and props can be seen. Visitors can ascend and sit on the famous Wessex Throne where monarchs in the series were crowned. Princes and princesses can pit their skills at the Uhtred Warrior School with Ragnar where they will learn warrior techniques including sword training and finding out who has the loudest battle cry. Historian and Bamburgh Castle expert Carol Griffiths will be giving fascinating talks about the monarchs who've influenced the Castle over the centuries. Talks are included free with general admission on May 5th, 7th, 9th and 9th. The Royal family are famous for their love of horses – and Shetland pony Marley will be trotting in to the Castle to meet visitors on May 7th and 8th. And crowning the activities on Sunday May 7th will be a community sand art event. Bamburgh Castle has teamed up with sand artist Claire Eason of Soul 2 Sand to create a giant commemorative artwork on the beach beneath the castle, which the then Prince of Wales visited in 2012. Bamburgh Castle visitor services manager Karen Larkin said: “We are excited to be making our own unique piece of history to celebrate the Coronation of his Majesty the King. “His Royal Highness is a lifetime enthusiast and champion for the environment. What could be more spectacular than an extraordinary tribute to him etched into the shore here on the magnificent Northumberland coast. It will be the most incredible sight to see. “We’d love people to join us and be involved in Bamburgh Castle’s tribute to this historic occasion with a piece of art that will go down in history. Be a part of it either by joining Claire to rake the design – or by watching and photographing the artwork from the Castle as history is created beneath you. “Places to volunteer to make the artwork are free but limited. These are being allocated on a first-come basis via pre-booked sessions between 12 noon and 2.00pm. Anyone who would like to take part should visit the Castle website for details.” Karen added: “Bamburgh has a special connection with monarchs over the centuries. Where better to come to celebrate the Coronation Weekend than by following in the footsteps of Kings and Queens to Bamburgh and to enjoy a day out fit for a King and his Queen Consort. The Coronation celebrations and royal theme will continue at Bamburgh Castle with a special ‘Meet the Author’ audience event with Annie Garthwaite on Friday May 12th at 11am.  Annie’s debut novel Cecily is a is a Sunday Times and Times 'Top Pick' and a Waterstones Best Book. This astonishing story plunges you into the blood and exhilaration of the Wars of the Roses and reimagines the life of Cecily, Duchess of York – mother of Kings, wife and shrewd political player. Bamburgh Castle became the first Castle in England to fall to gunpowder during the Wars of the Roses. A special tour will follow Annie's talk. For more information about Coronation events or to book tickets go to bamburghcastle.com

Farne Islands to remain closed for the breeding season, as first positive cases of bird ‘flu are confirmed this year Visitor landings on islands will be restricted until the end of August to prevent disturbance to birds and spread of the virus As birds begin to return to the islands for the breeding season, three positive cases of Avian Flu have been confirmed 6,000 carcasses collected last year was just ‘tip of iceberg’ Sail around boat tours of the islands will continue allowing visitors to still see these special islands, which are home to rare seabirds including puffins, Arctic terns and guillemots. The National Trust has today announced that a handful of cases of Avian Flu have sadly been confirmed on the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland, as more seabirds return for this year’s breeding season. As a result, visitors won’t be able to land on the Farne Islands until at least the end of August when the breeding season comes to an end. During this time, National Trust rangers will continue to monitor the islands which are home to rare seabirds including Atlantic puffins, Arctic terns and guillemots. Avian Influenza is still prevalent in seabird populations, despite government restrictions on housing poultry being lifted last week. The conservation charity believes it is prudent to continue to take a precautionary approach due to the three confirmed cases and the as yet unknown risk to seabirds for this year’s breeding season. However, sail around tours of the islands offered by local boat operators will continue to run offering a chance to see the wildlife who live and breed on the islands including grey seals. Last year, while the islands were off limits due to the outbreak, rangers contributed to national monitoring and research into the impacts of bird ‘flu on the breeding populations and removed over 6,000 carcasses of birds which had succumbed to the virus. Guillemots and kittiwakes were impacted the most, with 3,542 and 818 dead birds collected respectively, thought to have perished due to the disease. These numbers are likely to be just the tip of the iceberg as many dead birds in the densely packed cliff colonies will have fallen into the sea. The decision has been taken at a crucial time for the thousands of seabirds returning to the islands to begin the main breeding season. Species such as puffins and guillemots are already back on the islands, and Arctic terns will return very soon to nest. Harriet Reid, Lead Ranger for the Farne Islands said:  “Avian Influenza was rife on the islands last year and it was very distressing to see these precious seabirds impacted by the disease.   “Sadly, with confirmed cases, there is a strong likelihood that we will see thousands of birds affected by the virus again this year. Many of the species we care for are rare or struggling already due to climate change. By restricting access to the islands for visitors and limiting disturbance - which can cause distress to sick birds and potentially increase the transmission of bird flu - we hope to give the birds the best chance of survival." The Farne Islands is a National Nature Reserve and home to approximately 200,000 seabirds. The National Trust has cared for the Farne Islands for just under 100 years, and there are no records of anything so potentially damaging to the already endangered seabird colonies. Ben McCarthy, Head of Nature Conservation and Restoration Ecology at the National Trust said:   “The on-going impact of Avian Influenza on our wild birds is unprecedented. As threatened seabirds return to their breeding sites they become more susceptible to infection due to the high densities in these spectacular colonies. “We are working with partners to investigate measures to mitigate the impacts as well as better understand the long-term impacts of this pernicious disease. We are doing everything possible to mitigate the impact on the Farne Islands and our other seabird sites we manage.”   National Trust rangers will continue to manage vegetation and improve nesting habitat on the islands to ensure the birds have the best opportunity to breed successfully. They will also monitor the various bird species to understand how many have returned, the numbers of breeding pairs and how many chicks fledge. While visitors are unable to land the Islands, local boat companies continue to offer a range of sail around tours for visitors to experience the magical nature and marine life around the Farne Islands.  Billy Shiel Farne Island Boats trips is a family business which has been operating trips to the Farne Islands and Holy Island since 1918. The company offer a range of tours and cruises, including Puffin Seabird cruises, Grey Seal cruises, Holy Island trips, Sunset Cruises and Rhib Rides. Rachel Shiel said: “Our boat trips continue to sail around the Farne Islands to view the nesting seabirds and the grey seals at close quarters. These trips provide a fantastic vantage of the fabulous Farne Islands without disturbing the important work being undertaken by the National Trust to monitor and protect the wildlife.” Serenity Farne Island Tour owners Andrew and Toby Douglas run a fleet of purpose- built catamarans based in Seahouses Harbour. Andrew said: “Avian Influenza continues to represent an incredibly high risk to bird populations. Serenity Farne Islands Tours are fully supportive of the National Trust’s actions as the Farne Islands breeding season begins in earnest. “We will continue to offer a variety of tours, including our two-hour Puffin Seabird Cruises aboard our latest double decker catamaran. Grey Seal cruises and trips to historical Holy Island will also continue throughout the Summer. Our fleet accommodate visitors who wish to see the spectacular wildlife of the Farne Islands from the perfect vantage point.  “Whilst unable to land, our knowledgeable guides will still be able to provide full commentary and address all questions keen visitors to the Islands have. Sunset Cruises will be starting again mid-May.” All tour details are available on our website – www.farneislandstours.co.uk. We look forwards to see you all over the forthcoming months. For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farne-islands

Landing access to the Farne Islands to be restricted in efforts to protect precious seabird colonies   The National Trust has announced that visitors won’t be able to land on the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland, at the start of the 2023 season due to fears that Avian Influenza (bird flu) will rip through the seabird colonies once more.   Last year, while the islands were off limits to wildlife enthusiasts, rangers contributed to national monitoring and research into the impacts of bird flu on the breeding populations and removed over 6,000 carcasses of birds killed by the virus. Seabirds including the Guillemot and Kittiwake were impacted the most, with 3,542 and 818 respectively, thought to have perished due to the disease. These numbers are thought to be just the tip of the iceberg as many dead birds in the densely packed cliff colonies will have fallen into the sea.   With the virus persisting in the environment and now impacting wintering birds on both the Islands and mainland UK, the conservation charity believes it is prudent to restrict access to visitors seeking to land on Inner Farne and Staple islands. Sail around tours of the islands offered by local boat operators will continue to run.  The decision has been taken ahead of the main breeding season which will see species such as puffins, guillemots, and arctic terns returning to nest.   National Trust rangers will continue to manage vegetation and improve nesting habitat on the islands to ensure the birds have the best opportunity to breed successfully. They will also monitor the various bird species to understand how many have retuned, the numbers of breeding pairs and how many chicks fledge.   While visitors are unable to land the Islands, local boat companies continue to offer a range of sail around tours for visitors to experience the magical nature and marine life around the Farne Islands.    Billy Shiel Farne Islands Boats trips is a family business which has been operating trips to the Farne Islands and Holy Island since 1918. The company offer a range of tours and cruises, including a 2-hour Puffin Seabird cruise, and 1.5-hour Grey Seal cruise, as well as a diving and snorkelling trips for those who are a little more adventurous.   Serenity Farne Islands boat tours, based in Seahouses will be operating a variety of tours to accommodate visitors who wish to see the spectacular wildlife of the Farne Islands from the seaward side. These trips will include longer sailings for photographers as well as our regular cruises around the Farne Islands.   Golden Gate offer a variety of sail around tours, and also offer landing trips to Longstone to visit the lighthouse. For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farne-islands

Fans of the hit Netflix series The Last Kingdom will be able to get up close to costumes and props worn by actors in the sword-wielding saga in an exhibition at Bamburgh Castle - the original fortress of Bebbanburg in Northumberland. The exhibition includes costumes worn by Alexander Dreymon who plays Uhtred of Bebbanburg, Thea Sofie Loch Næss who starred as Skade, Ola Rapace who played Viking warrior Bloodhair, and Cavan Clerkin who played warrior-priest Father Pyrlig. The Last Kingdom is produced by leading drama specialists Carnival Films, whose shows include television and film sensation Downton Abbey. Nigel Marchant, Producer, Carnival Films said: “It’s truly wonderful that Bamburgh Castle are putting on this exhibition and giving the show’s loyal fans and members of the public the chance to step into the real Last Kingdom. The props and costumes are such an integral part of the series, it seems only right they get to stand proudly on display at Uhtred’s ancestral home of Bebbanburg.” Karen Larkin, visitor services manager at Bamburgh Castle, said: “Fans of The Last Kingdom will be able to see for themselves that Uhtred’s sword has returned to Bebbanburg as he said it would! “The exhibition includes a bespoke selection of key props and costumes from the series. It’s located in the Castle’s King’s Hall on the very footprint of Bebbanburg’s medieval banqueting hall – our Valhalla – where the real Uhtred could have feasted. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it!” “Even if you haven’t watched the series, the exhibition will bring to life characters based on Bamburgh’s epic past as capital of the kingdom of Northumbria and the kings and queens of its Golden Age.” News of the exhibition comes as Carnival Films announced the release date for the feature-length movie – Seven Kings Must Die – on April 14th on Netflix. The Last Kingdom at Bebbanburg exhibition opens on Saturday February 18th when the Castle reopens daily to visitors from 10am until 5.00pm (last admission 4.00pm). To mark the launch of the exhibition, Follow in the Footsteps of Uhtred tours will be taking place at the Castle on Saturdays throughout February and March. Included with general admission, tours will be led by Ragnar the Viking aka Robert Jones who’ll be comparing the real history of Uhtred with the fictional version. And to crown it all, you’ll even get the chance to become Queen or King of the North and be photographed sitting in the Wessex Throne. Entry into the exhibition and Follow in the Footsteps of Uhtred tours is included with general admission (adults £15.50 / children £7.65. Under-fives free. Family tickets £41.00). Tickets are available on the gate or at www.bamburghcastle.com

Run in partnership with the Mirror newspaper, VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar recognises and celebrates those in the industry who go the extra mile to ensure tourists in England have an amazing and unforgettable visitor experience. After making the shortlist, the vote is over to the public, and we want to encourage everyone to vote for Ranger Jane.    Ranger Jane was shortlisted for her passion for Northumberland, her sustainable and educational approach to the fantastic tourism product that she offers, and her extraordinary story that led her to start her own business.   Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said, “Ranger Jane is an exemplary example of the fantastic people driving the tourism industry in Northumberland. Her passion for Northumberland’s coast and wildlife, along with her sustainable approach to everything she does, provides visitors with a fun and engaging experience and educates them on how to care for Northumberland’s landscape.   “To be nominated as England’s next Tourism Superstar is a monumental achievement for Jane and recognition of Northumberland’s growing reputation as a responsible tourism destination. It demonstrates the endless experiences and first-class welcome people can expect when they visit.”   Following over ten years' service as a National Trust Ranger, Jane recognised the need to educate visitors to Northumberland’s coast, particularly after the COVID pandemic saw a surge in visitors. Since opening for bookings in May 2022, Jane delivering over 100 guided 'Seashore Safari' experiences before the end of the 2022 season.    Ranger Jane’s Beach School offers a range of tours and activities along the protected landscape of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. During her Seashore Safaris, guests carefully explore the rocky shore learning how to find creatures in their natural habitat with minimum disturbance. Jane’s primary tour objective is to connect her guests with nature and bring compassion and respect for the secret world of the rockpools.  In summing up her nomination, Jane commented, “My passion for rock pooling began with a lost wooden fish box at the age of five in 1975 when I came on family holidays to Low Newton and Embleton on the Northumberland coast. I love sharing my passion for the coastal environment on my safaris, and am humbled to have been nominated by Visit Northumberland and recognised and supported by a number of local holiday cottage owners.”   Jane’s Seashore Safari activities are a 90-minute guided experience at north beach in Seahouses for up to eight people in a group. To vote for Jane and help her take home the gold and win the title of England’s Tourism Superstar 2023, visit  https://www.visitbritain.org/tourism-superstar-2023. The ballot closes at midnight on March 20 with winner set to be announced on March 25.  

As part of Hadrian’s Wall 1900 Festival a contemporary large scale public artwork that celebrates 1900 years of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site APERTURA by Ed Carter, Nicky Kirk and Tony Broomhead is an interactive sonic sculpture set in the picturesque setting of Northumberland National Park's, Walltown Country Park. After months of development this unique installation is being described by organisers as an evocative intervention in the landscape. Until early October visitors can experience a sound sculpture made up of 1900 copper wind chimes that creates an evolving soundscape the everchanging breeze. Inspired by the World Heritage Site and the stunning landscapes of Northumberland National Park, APERTURA frames, and provides a new viewpoint to this section of Hadrian’s Wall, inviting audiences to experience a constantly evolving, interactive spectacle of shimmering light and sound. The free to attend artwork funded by North of Tyne Combined Authority will encourage people to come together in a shared physical space in order to engage, celebrate and listen. At the heart of the project is the opportunity to engage with local, regional, national, and international audiences, opening conversations about Hadrian’s Wall as an inspiring cultural bridge, rather than a static geographical border. As part of the project the team is engaging with local communities to contribute to the artwork by designing their own sails, which will be added to each wind chime, and bring the piece to life” APERTURA is being delivered by a team led by Gateshead based artist Ed Carter who has been collaborating with Nicky Kirk and Tony Broomhead for over 20 years. As individuals and working collaboratively the team have delivered a number of high profile artistic, architectural and temporary projects locally, in the UK and internationally. At the end of the installation period, the temporary suspended chimes will be given to local schools and community groups as sets of wind chimes, to ensure the underlying concept creates a legacy that remains in the local communities of Hadrian's Wall Jane, Lady Gibson, Chair of Hadrian’s Wall Partnership said: “APERTURA is an artwork that interprets this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site within a contemporary context, the location providing a monumental platform to shape a cultural dialogue about togetherness, dialogue, and commonality. We can't wait to invite visitors from around the world to come and celebrate this special event” Ed Carter said: The history of Walltown Country Park provides the ideal context in which to explore the ideas behind this piece of work. The quarrying work has left a large opening in a central section of Hadrian’s Wall, offering a tangible analogy for the notion that “openings mediate between the worlds separated by architectural barriers” (Rudolph Arnheim).” Individuals, groups, venues and organisations along the length of the wall are being encouraged to get involved and be part of this incredible year by visiting https://1900.hadrianswallcountry.co.uk/ and submitting their own activities to the programme! The HW1900 Festival programme to date is available to view at https://1900.hadrianswallcountry.co.uk/  The North of Tyne Combined Authority is a partnership of three local authorities: Newcastle City Council, North Tyneside Council, and Northumberland County Council and the North of Tyne Elected Mayor.

Farne Islands to close to visitors due to impact of Avian Influenza on internationally important seabird colonies: · Bird flu now impacting seabirds including Guillemots, Terns and Puffins · Hopes that island closure will help limit spread of the disease and any risks to people · Conservation charity calls on Government to act to do more to protect important seabird colonies · Boat tours are set to continue with visitors able to sail around the islands The National Trust has announced it will be closing the Farne Islands[1], off the coast of Northumberland in the North Sea to visitors, from Sunday 3 July, due to the impact of the spread of Avian Influenza (bird flu), on its precious seabird colonies. The disease which was first discovered in UK domestic bird populations last winter, is now impacting wild birds, with infection proving to be fatal. It is spread when birds come into direct contact with an infected bird, faeces, body fluids or indirectly via food and water. The risk to people is considered to be very low and people are rarely affected. Symptoms are similar to normal flu, with a runny nose, sore throat and fever. Simon Lee, General Manager for the Farne Islands said: “While we have no confirmed test results from the islands, we are now starting to see the terribly sad and distressing impact of Avian Influenza on our internationally important and threatened seabirds who make the islands their home. “Seabirds nesting in dense colonies, most of which are threatened, such as Arctic Terns, are particularly vulnerable now as they have returned to the islands in their thousands to breed, nesting in close proximity to each other. “Our ranger teams work tirelessly to monitor and protect these colonies, but due to finding significant numbers of dead birds, we simply have no other choice but to close the islands. “We understand how many people love to visit the islands, but we must do everything we can to protect and to try to help these much-loved seabirds by limiting the spread of the disease. “The effect of the disease on the colonies we care for could be devastating due to many species having low reproduction rates, which means the loss of adult birds has a huge impact on populations being able to recover. Mr Lee continued: “Many of the birds which nest here, such as the vulnerable Atlantic Puffin[2], are already experiencing huge pressures due to climate change with warming sea temperatures impacting food stocks. “By closing the islands we will reduce the risk of disturbance on the birds, which will hopefully help at least slow down the spread of the disease during this breeding period before they leave the islands in late summer to continue their annual migratory cycle. The Farne Islands, a National Nature Reserve, are home to approximately 200,000 seabirds including Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Shags in addition to Arctic Terns and Puffins. Several hundred dead birds have so far been found with these deaths reported to Defra. Ben McCarthy, Head of Nature Conservation and Restoration Ecology at the National Trust, added: “We are committed to working with Government agencies including the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) to protect our wild birds, and we are also working alongside other organisations including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and British Trust for Ornithology (BTO). “However, time is of the essence. We desperately need Government to do more to recognise the impact on our wild bird populations and to take more effective action, including a National Response Plan that includes practical steps to support our conservation teams, surveillance and monitoring of spread in wild bird populations, research into ways of slowing its spread, and clear biosecurity measures.” The Ranger team will remain on the islands to continue to monitor the birds while the islands are closed to visitors. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised that the risk to the general public's health is very low, but people should not touch sick or dead birds. If found, please report any dead birds to Defra on 0345 9335577.

A new beautifully illustrated book, telling the story of the creation of the Bamburgh Ossuary along with tales of Anglo-Saxon ancestors, a study of St. Aidan the man and the church, and the fascinating archaeology of Bamburgh - is out now. The book ‘Accessing Aidan, the story of the Bamburgh Ossuary’ explores a series of fascinating stories of our Anglo-Saxon ancestors as well as the remarkable circumstance and characters that resulted in the Bamburgh Ossuary. The publication of the book was made possible through the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as part of the wider ‘Accessing Aidan’ project to showcase and share the heritage of Bamburgh to new audiences in innovative ways. The book covers the creation of a brand-new ossuary in the crypt of St Aidan’s Church, Bamburgh for over 100 Anglo-Saxon skeletons, originally excavated from the sand dunes to the south of Bamburgh Castle.  Contributors - archaeologists Graeme Young and Jessica Turner, the osteologist Professor Charlotte Roberts, author John Connell, and architect Robert McKibbin - come together to tell a remarkable story of St Aidan and his Anglo-Saxon congregation. There is an in-depth exploration of the amazing evidence of their lives that their bones tell us making some of the remarkable research available for the first time. The book explores the life and work of the gentle saintly Aidan as well as the fabric of the church dedicated to him that holds the ossuary.  This fabulous book, with wonderful illustrations and photographs, is also a celebration of the present-day community that created the ossuary so that everybody can access the story of Aidan. Jessica Turner said: “This book is a brilliant conclusion to the Accessing Aidan project and years of hard work by so many people. I really hope that the amazing, varied contributions appeal to a wide audience; there really is something for everybody in this book”.  David Renwick, Director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It is fantastic news that thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to support the publication of ‘Accessing Aidan, the story of the Bamburgh Ossuary’. This wonderful new book will ensure that these amazing stories are preserved for years to come, meaning that local communities and visitors can learn more about Bamburgh’s rich heritage”. The book is available online from the Bamburgh Bones website: www.bamburghbones.org priced £10. It is also available at St Aidan’s Church in Bamburgh and Bamburgh Castle.

Forestry England is urging people to stay away from its woods in much of northern England in the aftermath of storm Arwen. A huge swath of the nation’s forests including Thrunton Woods, Kidland, Harbottle and Simonside near Rothbury, Kielder, Hamsterley and Chopwell, plus Grizedale Forest and Gisburn in the north west, have been badly affected by uprooted trees, loose branches, downed power lines and blocked access. Teams are working quickly, but above all safely, prioritising people who live in the forests by restoring access and helping restore power, emergency access and other services. Kevin May, Forest Management Director for North England said:  “This was a very significant storm and it’s caused a lot of damage.  Our immediate concern is for people who live and work in the forest and we are working intensively to restore some kind of normality.  Many of our woodlands will still be dangerous and are simply not safe for visitors at the moment.  There is also the risk from hanging trees – those that have been blown over, but have been caught on other trees. These can fall with little or no warning. Our message is to stay clear for the time-being and that will speed the recovery.  Our website, forestryengland.uk, will be kept up to date with the latest information.” Over the next few days Forestry England will carry out an aerial survey of its 90,000 hectares (222,000 acres) of land in northern England to assess Arwen’s impact and map the worst affected areas.  Kielder alone covers 63,000 hectares (155,000 acres) and is the nation’s largest forest. In some areas harvesting machines are being used to clear trees from highways.  Forestry England staff have also been checking on residents who live in remote areas and providing assistance where required. Once woodlands are made safe, a major clear up operation will begin and a full assessment of the damage made.  This is likely to take some months.  Plans will then be drawn up for long-term recovery to ensure the region’s forests continue to flourish for people, wildlife and the economy.

A spectacular year of events and activities will see Hadrian’s Wall come alive with culture, heritage and art. Hadrian’s Wall Partnership, which is co-ordinating a year-long festival celebrating Hadrian’s Wall 1900th anniversary in 2022, is thrilled to announce they have been awarded pivotal funding from North of Tyne Combined Authority.  Hadrian’s Wall 1900 Festival will mark the 1900th anniversary of the commencement of the building of Hadrian’s Wall. Organisations, communities, and individuals are planning to celebrate this unique anniversary in a myriad of different ways across 2022 in a packed programme that will include everything from community events to high profile arts commissions.   Jane, Lady Gibson, Chair of Hadrian’s Wall Partnership, said “This funding means that we can now formalise our delivery team and start planning for a truly remarkable festival in 2022”  Hadrian’s Wall 1900 Festival is a huge opportunity to unleash the recognised economic potential of Hadrian’s Wall’s cultural and heritage capital, and to build back stronger after Covid-19. She went on to say “Although this funding is hugely significant we still have a long way to go and we cannot stress enough how important it is that individuals, groups, venues and organisations along the length of the wall get involved so they can enjoy a spectacular festival in 2022 “ From Hadrian’s birthday on 24th January to Saturnalia on 23rd December 2022, the year-long Festival, will bring communities and visitors closer to the people that have lived and worked along the Wall from pre-Roman times to the present day.  Anyone interested in creating an activity or event which could become part of the year-long festival is invited to register on their website.Over 100 ideas have already been received.   This is an exciting opportunity to really deliver something unique and be part of a once in a lifetime festival! Hadrian’s Wall 1900 festival will provide opportunities for everyone to celebrate and find their connection to the Wall whether it be Roman history, dark skies, the natural environment, cultural diversity, food, music, the arts and more. Ultimately the festival will celebrate 1900 years of this incredible World Heritage Site. By connecting people and places through time and bringing to life the culture and experiences of local people living and working along the Wall this festival will deliver something that will stand the test of time, just like the Wall itself!  The festival will build the reputation and profile of this much-loved World Heritage Site as a varied, high quality 21st century visitor destination, and as a significant element in the transnational Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site which includes which includes the Antonine Wall in Scotland and the roman defences across Europe from the Dutch coast to the mouth of the Danube. The funding from North of Tyne will ensue that the Hadrian’s Wall Partnership can develop the festival’s co-ordination team to ensure as many people as possible can support, take part in, and engage with this incredible anniversary.  Cllr Glen Sanderson North of Tyne Cabinet Member for Culture, Creative and Rural and Leader of Northumberland County Council said: “This unique festival will give communities and visitors something to look forward to in 2022. Hadrian’s Wall is known throughout the world and celebrating its 1900th anniversary is a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase our region and tell our story.    “This is important funding, it will boost our businesses, economy and tourism helping ensure a strong recovery from the pandemic.”  

Lindisfarne Festival serves up extra tickets ahead of 2021 return! With a month to go until the colourful awning comes up on the sixth Lindisfarne Festival, organisers have released extra tickets to ensure lots more people can bathe in the very best of good times. Following the Government’s further easing of Coronovirus restrictions on July 19th, the much-loved camping festival, which pitches up on the beautiful Beal Farm overlooking the majestic Holy Island, will now be able to welcome hundreds of additional revellers from September 2nd to 5th. Festival director, Conleth Maenpaa, said: “The lifting of remaining Covid restrictions has allowed us to make a new tranche of tickets available, including some much sought after Saturday passes which had sold out.” Small but beautifully formed, the three-day music and arts extravaganza has been growing in popularity year on year since its debut in 2015 and has built a reputation for being the ultimate end of summer party for grown-ups (the event is strictly over 18s only). Conleth added: “The demand we’ve seen so far really demonstrates how eager people are to come together again and soak up a very special and shared experience. We are so excited to welcome everyone back to Lindisfarne Festival. It has been too long.” Headlined by Grammy Award-winning British electronic music duo, Groove Armada and BRIT Award and Mercury Music Prize winner, Dizzee Rascal - who is topping the Friday night bill - the Lindisfarne Festival line up for 2021 has hit the right note with thousands of festival goers who already have their tickets in a safe place. Although plans for the 2020 event were shelved like so many others when the Covid-19 pandemic took hold, the vast majority of the acts were rebooked for this year’s return including Alabama 3, From The Jam and Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club. They will be joined by an array of acts spanning a rainbow of musical genres. More than 200 musicians and performing artists will take to the Festival’s 10 distinct stages. As well as the storming music menu, Lindisfarne Festival, which regularly welcomes more than 5,000 good-time seekers to its stunning location, will also be bringing the funny, thanks to a three-hour comedy feast inside the confines of the excellent Dingle Dell tent on Saturday afternoon. North East comedy hero, Gavin Webster will be hosting proceedings with Edinburgh Festival favourite, Lauren Pattison leading the laugh-making charge alongside the likes of Gareth Waugh, Ryan Cullen and Nicola Mantalios.  Alongside the music and the stand up, there will be a diverse programme of creative workshops, spoken word, yoga and holistic therapies on offer as well as street performers all over the place and luxury glamping packages for those not so keen on the camping bit! Conleth added: “We’re absolutely thrilled with the entire programme across the Festival. Every day and every stage has got so much to get excited about. We’re counting down the days!” Earlier this month, Conleth and his team set out a range of recommendations and guidelines in the context of the pandemic which ask everyone who comes to Lindisfarne Festival to look after themselves and each other. While vaccines, lateral flow tests within 48 hours of the event, face masks and good hand hygiene are not a condition for entry, they are being strongly encouraged, alongside a serious and sensible request that anyone displaying Covid-19 symptoms should say away and/or return home immediately if they begin during the event. Conleth said: “We take our duty of care to everyone involved in Lindisfarne Festival incredibly seriously and our aim is for each and every person to return from the event without illness or injury – and with a big exhausted smile on their faces! “The response to the guidelines has been really positive with the vast majority of people feeling reassured that we’re doing all we can to keep everyone safe while they’re with us. Lindisfarne Festival really does feel like a big family and so why wouldn’t we look after our brilliant brood!” Lindisfarne Festival tickets are on sale now via www.lindisfarnefestival.com/tickets with a range of options including a 3-day festival pass priced at £110, including camping. Keep an eye on the Festival’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for updates.          

 A brand-new film installation exploring Grace Darling and her historic rescue of nine stranded survivors onboard the shipwrecked SS Forfarshire in 1838 will open at the RNLI Grace Darling Museum on 7 September 2021 - the 183rd anniversary of the rescue. The multi-screen visual installation by artist Sophie Dixon (www.sophie-dixon.com) explores the story of Grace Darling from her childhood, right through to her death in 1842. Titled, ‘Grace’, the new installation at the RNLI Grace Darling Museum in Bamburgh, Northumberland, forms part of the Arts Council England-funded Meeting Point programme, led by contemporary arts agency Arts&Heritage (www.artsandheritage.org.uk). Artist, Sophie Dixon, said: “Grace Darling’s role in the rescue of crew and passengers on board the paddle steamer Forfarshire is known all over the world, but for many people, that’s all they know about her. “Inspired by various, often conflicting accounts, ‘Grace’ is a poetic exploration of Grace Darling’s life and the impact of her fame.” The multi-screen video installation has been developed using archival documents and digitised objects from the museum’s collection, as well as letters, factual records and reference photos from the Northumberland and Trinity House Archives. Visitors will be transported to Grace’s home on Longstone Island where digital   reconstructions of items from the museum’s collections will bring her story to life. An original score by musician Kathy Alberici weaves together sounds of the Farne Islands and North East voices. Marleen Vincenten, Heritage Development Manager at the RNLI Grace Darling Museum, said: “Sophie’s film will bring a new perspective to the story of Grace Darling and help visitors to our charity’s museum learn more about her as a person. “A lot of people know about her role in the rescue but they are often less aware of her life before and after that, and the impact that event had on her. It will really help those who know the story well to experience it differently.” ‘Grace’ is presented as part of Meeting Point, a national programme led by contemporary arts agency Arts&Heritage (www.artsandheritage.org.uk) that partners leading UK and international artists with museums and heritage sites to produce new artworks inspired by the museums and their collections. Steph Allen, Executive Director at Arts&Heritage said: “Working with artists can help museums present their collections in an entirely new way. ’Grace’ uses digital technology to tell a story many of us have grown up with, but from the perspective of Grace Darling herself.  “It opens up parts of Grace’s life we don’t know about and helps us better understand a story that’s nearly 200 years old.” ‘Grace’ opens at RNLI Grace Darling Museum on Tuesday 7 September and runs until Friday 1 October 2021. For more information visit www.rnli.org/gracedarling. A dedicated website for the film installation has also been created – www.grace-darling.film. For more information about Meeting Point, visit www.artsandheritage.org.uk.