The opening of the Chilton and Windlestone – Our Heritage at the Pavilion exhibition takes place on Friday, 25 September.
Located in the historic Miners Welfare Recreation Ground Pavilion, this exciting new community hub brings 150 years of local history back to life through the project titled Our People, Our Place, Our Heritage.
The transformation of the much-loved pavilion building was driven by a powerful grassroots effort. The restoration work was led by project sponsors, Sue Reece and Ben Race, supported by Charity Trustees and project team, Andy Coulthard and David English, who successfully brought the vision to life by bringing together local contractors, passionate volunteers, friends and family working side-by-side to restore the structure.
Thanks to this collective community spirit, the building has been completely revitalised for future generations.
The heritage centre offers visitors a hands-on experience to connect with, explore and shape local history:
- Changing Exhibitions: Explore a dynamic rotation of displays showcasing the social reform, healthcare, and daily lives of Chilton and Windlestone’s communities.
- Research the Archives: Dive deep into local history by exploring thousands of photographs, official documents, and unique physical assets. This extensive collection is entirely built from the stories, photographs and items donated by the community, including the late Brian Turner’s historical collection, generously gifted to the archive by his family.
- Talks, Tours & Film Shows: Enjoy an engaging programme of historical talks, guided tours, and community film screenings hosted in collaboration with prominent local partners, including Capturefilms Redhills Durham, and Beamish Museum.
- Relax in the Café: Grab a cuppa, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the beautiful pavilion park, catch a game of bowls, croquet or tennis proudly maintained by the Groundwork volunteers led by David English.
- The Heritage Trail: Walk the Heritage Trail to see the key buildings and places highlighted in the exhibition.
- Preserve the Heritage: Learn how you can directly contribute to preserving our shared history, whether by sharing your own stories, donating family photographs, or joining the volunteer team.
Admission to the centre is completely free for everyone. To help keep this vital community resource running, visitors will have the opportunity to browse and purchase bespoke local heritage merchandise. Every purchase made, along with any voluntary donations, goes directly back into the ongoing operations, care, and maintenance of the centre.
This vital community asset is proudly funded and supported by: The National Lottery Heritage Fund; Miners Welfare Recreation Ground Charity Trust; Durham County Council; North East Area Miners’ Social Welfare Trust Fund; The Green Energy Fund and livin Community Fund.
Mark your calendar for Friday 25 to Sun 27 September and join us to celebrate the rich heritage of our people and place.
Become a Heritage Volunteer
The opening brings a fantastic opportunity for community members to get involved first-hand. The centre is looking for passionate heritage volunteers to help support daily operations.
As a volunteer, you can share your invaluable local knowledge with visitors, host visiting schools, and guide local community groups through our shared history.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
