The service was led by the Revd Lesley Sutherland, Priest-in-Charge of All Saints Parish Church which is based in Lanchester. The Dean of Durham blessed the handmade banner which celebrates Burnhope’s history, heritage and community spirit.
Luke Akehurst MP, Member of Parliament for North Durham, delivered the first reading whilst pupils from Burnhope Primary School shared the second reading. Ian Galloway, Treasurer of Burnhope Community Centre and a member of staff at Cranmer Hall, St John’s College, Durham University, also addressed the congregation. Local councillor Alison Gray and Derek Coates, Chair of Burnhope Parish Council, were among those in attendance.
The banner was created by members of Burnhope Community Centre Craft Club following conversations with local community groups about what Burnhope means to them. Ideas such as “welcome” and “community” emerged alongside memories, landmarks and traditions associated with the village.
Using photographs from old and new as inspiration members crafted individual sections of the banner using fabric, appliqué, painting and 3D felt techniques.
