Volunteers Put Life Back into Prudhoe Cemetery

The Prudhoe Local History Society has been awarded Best New Project at the LOVE Northumberland awards for their restoration project of St Mary Magdalene Cemetery in Prudhoe. The group was recognised for its work to restore the site, which was closed in 1909 and had been left to become overgrown since the 1980s. Work started on the site in January, with help from the council, the church and grants from the Town Council and Land of Oak and Iron Project. Neighbourhood Services also offered mechanised help, however most work is done by hand. The site is now open to the public, allowing residents to visit the graves of relatives and discover some fascinating stories. The site is also now a flourishing place for wildlife, including birds, bats and deer. I recently met with Len Franchetti, Ed Graham, Ray Moore, Derek Tulip and Michael Foster to hear all about the great work they are doing, along with fellow members of the Society, Ann Blackburn and Gary Brown- it was fascinating to hear their enthusiasm about the project.

Congratulations to everyone on their fantastic work and very well deserved award!