The third annual 'Images of Shotley' exhibition, held over two days this year, was again successful in raising funds for Golden Wood.

One of the aims of The Viking Forest Project is to encourage children to be more aware of the countryside around them, and so we were very pleased to see such large number of entries in the Children's Art Competition this year, well over 200 were received from Shotley Kidzone, Shotley County Primary and Holbrook High School.

Our grateful thanks go to local artists and craftspeople for their support, to John Webb for the loan of his collection of historical documents and photographs of places and faces old and new, and to the W.I, for their lovely cream teas and donation.

Wonderful music from 'Mood Swings' a young jazz quartet, was enjoyed by an appreciative audience and thanks to David Armes for the chilli supper. The now traditional 'Dawn Chorus' walks led by Ian Peters and of course the breakfasts afterwards were much appreciated and well supported.

Our 'Reflections of Rural Life' also included a visit from the Woodbridge Excelsior Brass Band, funded by Shotley Parish Council in recognition of 100 Years of HMS Ganges. There was also a tug of war, won by a team from the Rose Inn, Morris dancers and a display of tractors loaned by local farmers which proved a big hit and will hopefully be expanded upon next year.

Over the weekend more than £500 pounds was raised, this will help to maintain Golden Wood and contribute to the future purchase of more land for the community to plant woods for our children's, children's children! Thank you to everyone who helped to make this event a success.

The Viking Forest Project is affiliated to the Greenlight Trust, for information on this and Golden Wood please contact Ian Peters on 787460.