Friends of Crofton Field in Blyth win hat-trick of awards

By Craig Buchan
Published 10th Nov 2022, 14:43 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

A Northumberland community group has won three awards this year, after less than two years in operation.

Friends of Crofton Field, based in Blyth, was formed in March 2021 with the ambition to transform the former Crofton Mill pit heap, carnival field, and adjoining Dune Walk car park.

The group of 30 volunteers have been working to revitalise the woodland, improve its wildlife potential, and improve access by foot.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

At the LOVE Northumberland awards, the group were presented with a Highly Commended Award in the best urban project category for their work transforming the woodland on the former colliery heap.

The Mayor of Blyth, Councillor Warren Taylor, presented the Blyth in Bloom award to the group.The Mayor of Blyth, Councillor Warren Taylor, presented the Blyth in Bloom award to the group.
The Mayor of Blyth, Councillor Warren Taylor, presented the Blyth in Bloom award to the group.

They then picked up a Gold Award at Northumbria in Bloom’s Conservation Award ceremony for work across the whole site.

The Blyth in Bloom Silver Gilt Award was then scooped up for their work on the Dune Walk car park community garden, a project which involved a number of local children and adults with learning disabilities in addition to the group’s volunteers.

Friends of Crofton Field chairperson John Whittle said: “We are a friendly, well organised, and well-equipped group.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Far from resting on our laurels, we have a full autumn programme scheduled, which includes tree planting, woodland planting, footpath work, and work to brighten up the entrance on Plessey Road.

Members of the group's management committee were presented with their LOVE Northumberland award by the Duchess of Northumberland.Members of the group's management committee were presented with their LOVE Northumberland award by the Duchess of Northumberland.
Members of the group's management committee were presented with their LOVE Northumberland award by the Duchess of Northumberland.

“More people are needed to help with the transformation of this area much valued for walking, quiet recreation and the enjoyment of nature.”

The group meets every other Monday afternoon and one Saturday per month to carry out the work.

You can contact [email protected] to get involved with the group’s work.

Related topics:BlythNorthumberland