The Miners' Picnic returned to Woodhorn Museum for the first time in three years.The Miners' Picnic returned to Woodhorn Museum for the first time in three years.
The Miners' Picnic returned to Woodhorn Museum for the first time in three years.

Northumberland Miners' Picnic hailed a success as it makes triumphant return to Woodhorn Museum

Hundreds of people descended on Woodhorn Museum as the Northumberland Miners’ Picnic made a return after a three-year absence.

More than 1,400 people attended the event last Saturday as it returned in person for the first time since 2019 following the Coronavirus pandemic.

The event started with the traditional miners’ memorial service and wreath laying, commemorating those who died in the coal mining industry.

Four local brass bands – Ashington Colliery Brass Band, Bedlington Brass Community Band, Ellington Colliery Band, Newbiggin Jayess Brass Band – performed together during the service, before taking to the main stage.

The music continued throughout the day on the main stage with more local acts, including pit-pop, folk-rock brass band Dennis; afro-Latin percussion and brass duo, Ladies of Midnight Blue; and headline act, ska and brass influenced, The Baghdaddies.

Families also took part in a mini Pride event in Woodhorn’s pit yard with Curious Arts while there was also crafting, storytelling and more activities.

Performers from Let’s Circus entertained the crowds with its new pony-themed street theatre performance, On the hoof, and there were pop-up artworks across the site from artists including Jason Wilshire-Mills, and an animated documentary featuring people from across South East Northumberland.

Rowan Brown, chief executive of Museums Northumberland: “Seeing crowds of people back at Woodhorn Museum to celebrate the Northumberland Miners’ Picnic in person has been an absolutely joy.

"There’s always a great atmosphere on site as families enjoy the live music and events, and explore the museum.

“It’s been two years since we all came together to celebrate Northumberland's proud mining heritage and this weekend saw more than 1,400 people take part in fun, creative activities throughout the museum and experience some amazing live music and performances.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all the artists and performers that helped make this year’s event so special.

"I’d also like to acknowledge the ongoing support of our funders and thank all the staff and volunteers at Museums Northumberland for their hard work and dedication to deliver another memorable Northumberland Miners’ Picnic."