“On behalf of the steering group, I am very pleased to record once again our gratitude for your extremely successful management of this complex and multi-stranded project.”

Ian Forbes OBE, Chair of Friends of the North Pennines.

Project Manager of this community based, volunteer led project, centred on the Dukesfield Arches in Hexhamshire. Its true strength is the eclectic and enjoyable activites, from a Heritage Cook-Off and celebratory beer, to the transcription of over a million words from archive documents. I also developed and delivered fantastic outdoor learning sessions for local Primary Schools to explore their local heritage.

Ian Forbes, project chairman, said: “It is remarkable in being a truly integrated project with archaeology, conservation, community, arts, education, acting and even brewing working together to bring this bit of history to life. Volunteers and professionals have worked together with huge commitment and enthusiasm. It has been enjoyable for all, great fun, immensely rewarding and we have all learned loads more about the truly regional importance of the lead industry.”

Feast your eyes on more from this project here: www.dukesfield.org.uk

Winner of the best coast or countryside project in the 2015 Love Northumberland Awards.

Awarded second place Highly Commended in the Heritage category of Constructing Excellence North East Awards 2015.

Dukesfield was also one of four shortlisted industrial projects in the prestigeous Historic England’s 2015 Heritage Angels Awards.