Whickham - Silver Gilt award

This former mining town has been transformed into a very attractive residential area. Iit retains proud links to its past through the evocative sculptures in the excellent Watergate Forest Park but is also a very attractive town of the present day. 

The Hermitage Garden is a fantastic asset to the town, where the judges were in awe of the enthusiasm, drive, skill and farsighted vision of Dave Peacock in rescuing this peaceful haven.  

The judges applauded the plans for a wildlife area in Chase Park and the involvement of children in this and other environmental projects.

The Library Garden has transformed a derelict area subject to anti-social behaviour into a little gem and it is now a place of tranquillity for library users.

The judges were pleased to see the bird boxes constructed by Front Street Parochial School and Gibside Special School positioned in Chase Park.·