Miners’ Picnic to honour Woodhorn disaster anniversary
Brass bands, family activities and a special memorial performance will feature as the Northumberland event returns
The annual Northumberland Miners’ Picnic, due to take place at Woodhorn Museum on Saturday, June 13, will be a day of culture, community and remembrance.
It will begin with the memorial service when Ashington Male Voice Choir, celebrating its centenary, will perform a special song commemorating 110 years since the Woodhorn Colliery explosion which claimed 13 lives.
Ellington Collery Band, Jayess Newbiggin Brass Band, Bedlington Community Brass Band and Ashington Colliery Brass Band will perform on the main stage and there will be performances by Northern Proud Voices, Northern Monkey Brass Band and Ladies of Midnight Blue in a programme compered by Bread & Butter Theatre Company.
Visitors will be among the first to see The Northumbrian Miner, a new sculpture by artist John O’Rourke, and hear the story of the Cramlington Train Wreckers from Ed Waugh who has been keeping their memory alive 100 years after the General Strike.
There will be family entertainment throughout the day (10am to 5pm) with attractions including Bugs & Beasties workshops and circus skills activities.
Jo Raw, Northumberland venues manager for North East Museums, said: “The Northumberland Miners’ Picnic is about remembering, celebrating and bringing people together.
“From music and storytelling to hands-on family activities and heritage displays, it’s a chance for people of all ages to come together and celebrate the stories, creativity and community spirit that continue to shape our region.”
The event is free but onsite car parking costs £5. Free shuttle buses will run between Ashington Leisure Centre and the museum. Visit the website for details.