Huge park artwork celebrates mining town

More than 1,100 primary children were asked what their former mining town meant to them, with the answers inspiring a huge artwork in a park.

The Heart of Ashington depicts symbols of footballs, conifers, ash branches and dog paw prints drawn with bio-degradable marker on the grass of the town's People's Park.

The 80m (262ft) in diameter artwork is part of the Animating Ashington series of workshops that runs until the end of August, aimed at reimagining public places and encouraging people to take pride in their town.

Artist James Brunt spent four days creating the piece with the help of school children and said he loved "seeing and chatting with the same people every day".

He said: "We became part of the park's community, accepted by the locals.

"After many conversations about what the park meant to people, we adapted the work and the artwork grew."

Mr Brunt said that even though the work would fade within five weeks, he hoped it would leave a legacy, "showing people that creativity is around us in the everyday stuff".

The project was co-ordinated by outdoor art specialists Walk the Plank and commissioned by Northumberland County Council.

Project senior producer Bev Ayre said: "James's work brings people together in a shared space, inviting reflection, connection and joy, all central to the spirit of this programme."

The county council said it was part of the Regenerating Ashington Programme to "grow, renew and connect the town".

Mr Brunt added: "No matter our backgrounds we deserve to see and do amazing things.

"Art is not and should never be elitist."

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