VOLUNTEER gardeners have celebrated their village’s industrial history by commissioning a sculpture of a miner and a coal tub planter.
In their most ambitious project yet, West Auckland in Bloom called on the expertise of Graham Robson, of Grange Ironworks, and local chainsaw sculptor Lee Hoskins, to produce the pieces, which now form a centrepiece on the village green.
Jean Pattison, of West Auckland in Bloom, said it had been difficult to raise cash for the project while Covid-19 restrictions were in place so an application was made to Auckland Gateway for funding.
Auckland Gateway was formed five years ago with a £1million Lottery grant which was awarded to each of the 150 most deprived areas in the country. The group represents six villages in the area, including West Auckland.
Chairman Lee Brownson said a grant of £2,500 was quickly approved.
He added: “It was a no brainer and the decision was unanimous.”
Of West Auckland in Bloom’s efforts to beautify the village over the past two years, Mr Brownson said: “It is incredible. It is amazing what a difference the colour makes and it has brought people in the village together.” The total cost of the centrepiece was £2,870 with West Auckland in Bloom using £370 of its own funds to cover the balance.
