Special Award For A Special Place - 17th February 2003

Loyd Grosman presented a national award to local people and Northumberland National Park Authority for the innovative work done at Hareshaw Linn, Bellingham, at a ceremony in London.

Loyd Grosman as patron of the Association for Heritage Interpretation presented the special 'Volunteers in Interpretation' Award at the Museums & Heritage Show.

Graham Taylor, Chief Executive of the Northumberland National Park Authority said, "The project with the people of Bellingham, which grew out of our plan to improve the local beauty spot of Hareshaw Linn, developed into a major project involving all generations and including community arts and a memorable play. Together these activities involved many hundreds of local people. It was a very moving experience to be involved in. It has changed this Authority."

The Association of Heritage Interpretation's judge's recommendation was: 'I liked the 'democratic' approach to the interpretation of Hareshaw Linn – largely by the community for the community. The involvement of children was particularly successful.'

Clive Emerson, Northumberland National Park Authority's Lead Member for Community Development and Planning said, "Volunteers were involved at all stages in the Hareshaw project, whether as part of the Hareshaw Local Community Group initially set up to help steer the project forward; on practical footpath restoration works; or getting involved in drama and dance, photography and poetry. It has shown that as a National Park Authority we can change our way of working in the future by involving local people and volunteers much more at the heart of all our activities."