Writing the Reiver Trails
The Reiver Trails is an ambitious new initiative bringing ten way-marked recreational routes to life, supporting local businesses and contributing to sustainable growth across rural Northumberland. The project is a collaboration led by Forestry England, Northumberland National Park Authority and Kielder Trust, with funding from Northumberland County Council. Check out the growing website to find out much more.
I’m delighted to be joining the team, reuniting with longstanding clients Paul Nichol of KT, Alex MacLennan at FE and Duncan Wise from NNP, to research the Border Reivers and prepare engaging new storylines and content to support the trails. As Paul has often pointed out, the Border Reivers is a familiar term and regularly used in regional branding, but how much do people really know about who they were and what they did? I’m looking forward to delving deeply into their history, and finding ways to make greater connections with today’s border communities, marking the lesser-known places associated with their exploits, and adding value to the experience for trail users.
The trails were launched to great enthusiasm and excitement at Stonehaugh Community Hall, tucked away on the edge of Kielder Forest. The event demonstrated the deep commitment to this exciting new project from the partners, and highlighted the regional, national and international opportunities to make physical and interpretive links between Hadrian’s Wall, Kielder Water & Forest Park and beyond.
I can’t wait to get started on the research – and to be working with my local friend and colleague, the brilliant Dr Maire West, who will be ensuring the integrity and accuracy of everything we produce.
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