Youngsters take part in magical event at Kielder

Mar 22 2010 by Laura Caroe, The Journal

YOUNGSTERS lit up some of the darkest night skies in the country during a magical event.

Hundreds of people visited the enchanting Kielder shores, in Northumberland, for the first ever Festival of Lanterns, on Saturday.

The Northumberland village has the darkest skies in England, thanks to the lack of light pollution in the isolated village.

But for one night only a parade of lanterns made their way to the shores with their creations in the shape of salmon, herons and stars, and the dramatic landscape was ablaze with light.

Schoolchildren were heavily involved in the build-up to the festival, including designing lanterns and putting the materials together.

Visitors made lanterns during workshops on the day and also brought their own creations to the event.

Kelly Hodgson, a member of Northumbrian Water business services team, said: “It was a spectacular night especially as once everyone arrived at the water for the final it was dark.

“Lots of children from schools in the area created their own lanterns and some people brought their own so there were hundreds everywhere. It looked amazing and a lot of fun was had by everyone involved.”

During the day, members of the public had the chance to experience the unique setting by taking part in a range of free, family orientated music, art and dance workshops celebrating the county’s heritage and cultural diversity.

Coun Isabel Hunter, executive member for culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are pleased to be able to support this exciting event.

“It offered opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy a magical experience that celebrates Northumberland’s distinctiveness.”

Large-scale images were also placed in the forest as illuminated installations and marked the route of the procession.

The night ended in an extravagant water, light and music finale incorporating floating lanterns and water jets.

Shona Hendrick, events and activities development officer for Kielder Partnership, said: “In the months leading up to the event, the community were heavily involved and we’ve had a variety of schools and groups making lanterns for the parade.

“It was a great time to see everyone join together and celebrate Northumberland in an event for all the family.”