The Land of Oak & Iron is inviting local craft businesses and organisations to get involved with one of the most successful events in the Derwent Valley this summer.
Chopwell WoodFest is set in beautiful woodland and aims to bring the heritage of the area to life. This year it will take place on Sunday 8 July at Chopwell Wood, a 360-hectare mixed woodland in the heart of the northeast. Visitors can make a willow hurdle, have a go on a pole lathe, turn their hand to pottery, and learn about honey making and the wildlife around us.
The event is organised by the Land of Oak & Iron in partnership with the Forestry Commission and Friends of Chopwell Wood, who want to increase the number of local craft businesses on show.
Last year over 1,500 people of all ages had a fantastic time trying out new ‘old’ skills, such as spinning wool, weaving willow, turning a clay pot and traditional woodworking. In the bushcraft dell children of all ages enjoyed toasting marshmallows, building dens and discovering a whole host of other natural activities.
Karen Daglish, Land of Oak & Iron Partnership Manager said “This event is a great way for people to learn about the amazing industrial, cultural and natural heritage of our area. It’s also a great opportunity to share skills and knowledge, and introduce local craft businesses too.
“We’d love to see more local businesses and organisations, that in some way showcase the heritage of our beautiful Derwent Valley and surrounding area, such as wood carvers and jewellery makers, register for a stall, at what promises to be a great day out for people of all ages.”
Pitches are £10 for not-for-profit or community organisations and £20 for other businesses and commercial organisations. Pitches inside the marquee are for a 6′ table which we will provide; outdoors stand holders are responsible for providing their own table and shelter from the weather.
The Land of Oak & Iron aims to work with local communities and partners to celebrate, conserve and enhance its natural, industrial and cultural heritage. It is an area which has a fascinating industrial past of iron and steel making, an abundance of natural woodland, intriguing stories of people who helped shape history and is the home to rapper dancing.
To register as a stall holder please complete this online form by 27 April 2018 https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CWF2018.
The Land of Oak & Iron Landscape Partnership is a four-year programme of events and activities, supported by National Lottery players through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and hosted by environmental regeneration charity Groundwork NE & Cumbria. Comprised of 14 inter-connected projects with partners including Durham Wildlife Trust, Tyne Rivers Trust and the local authorities of Durham, Gateshead and Northumberland, the Land of Oak & Iron offers superb parking, cafés, facilities, access and events too.