Five of us got around a kitchen table in deepest Hexhamshire last week to read through the first draft of the community play, and have a good laugh along the way. Local farmer and playwright David Nixon has made a flying start on the script, smelting entertaining stories, sketches and characters from the bulky ore of lead industry history. Further writing and readings to come, polishing up those characters, and then it’ll be set, props, costumes and all the rest. Plenty to do this year; plan is for the show to tour the region next autumn and winter.
The Dukesfield Smelters and Carriers Project aimed to celebrate and discover the heritage of the Dukesfield Arches & lead carriers' routes between Blaydon and the lead mines of Allendale and Weardale. A two year community project, it was led by the Friends of the North Pennines in partnership with Hexhamshire and Slaley Parish Councils and the active support of Allendale Estates. It was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the generous support of other sponsors.
Friends of the North Pennines: Charity No:1137467
