The Duchess of Northumberland

Each year the Duchess of Northumberland presides over an evening of awards for people throughout the County of Northumberland for their voluntary work on environmental projects.

In 2012 I was asked to assist the presentation and introduce the Duchess.

So I wrote a poem and framed it before awarding her for her vision in creating the Alnwick Gardens and also for her tireless efforts to promote our beautiful County.

Groups and individuals across the County including Wansbeck have been recognised for their contributions year on year.

Alnwick Gardens

Not far from Hotspur’s stoney walls

lies a garden that enthrals

all those who enter

A symphony of gurgling sounds

where waterfalls and life abounds

as plants and people do the rounds

birds, bees and bugs and abundant fauna

all play and display in their chosen corner

mixing with Sons and Dads and Nieces

who come to admire the wondrous species

It is humble grandiosity

enjoyed by human curiosity

and wonder at the magic

in the minds of its creators

to whom we must all be grateful

and bring witness and salutation

for their vision and dedication.

Alan Thompson June 2012