Held across The Artists Hub, the Spanish Gallery, Market Place and Bishop’s Palace Green on Saturday 26 September, the free Heritage Fayre event brought together local heritage organisations, exhibitors, speakers and community groups, with visitors able to explore exhibitions, enjoy demonstrations, take part in activities and discover more about the stories that have shaped Bishop Auckland and the surrounding area, writes Yvonne Hawkey.
A highlight of the day was the programme of free guest talks at the Spanish Gallery, which included community champion Dr Bob McManners OBE, local historian Tom Hutchinson, local sports author John Phelan, and leading archeologist Dr Anne Allen.
Each talk also provided an opportunity for visitors to ask questions and learn more from the speakers.
At The Artists Hub, visitors could meet exhibitors from across the county, including the Weardale Railway Trust, Durham Castle and Cathedral World Heritage Site, County Durham Forum for Heritage and History, and Northumberland and Durham Family History Society.
There were also demonstrations throughout the day from the Tynedale Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, alongside a range of hands-on activities, including peg doll making, peg-loom weaving and a “Through the Ages” activity delivered by the artists in residence.
The Market Place was also brought to life with heritage bus rides provided by the Aycliffe & District Bus Preservation Society, while the Northern Bygones Society attracted plenty of interest with its impressive collection of classic and vintage vehicles.
Mayor Michael Siddle said: “The Heritage Fayre is fast becoming an integral part of Bishop Auckland’s annual calendar, and it was fantastic to see so many people coming along to enjoy the day.
“We had some truly beautiful classic and vintage vehicles on display, and choosing the winner was certainly no easy task!
“It was wonderful to see the town come alive and so many people enjoying and celebrating our heritage together.”
Sarah Harris, Town Clerk at Bishop Auckland Town Council, added: “We were delighted to welcome so many people to this year’s Heritage Fayre and see residents and visitors enjoying everything the day had to offer.
“From the fascinating free talks and heritage exhibitions to the demonstrations, hands-on activities, heritage bus rides and classic vehicles, there was a wonderful variety of things to see and do.
“Events like this are a fantastic way to celebrate Bishop Auckland’s history while bringing our community together.
“We would like to thank everyone who attended, as well as all of our exhibitors, speakers, partners and volunteers who helped make the day such a success.”
Yvonne Hawkey
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
