Last updated 16:16, Thursday, 20 November 2008

THE Kielder version of the Northumberland Lights events staged all around the county is called Out of Water.

Almost two kilometres of the lakeside path from Matthews Linn to Mirage near Bakethin Weir was illuminated with literally thousands of lights in every hue imaginable. There were wonderfully exotic palm trees which changed colour. Some were on a desert island in the middle of Lewisburn inlet; others were set in a forest glade. The new and exciting Lewisburn bridge was not only lit from end to end but had amazing sound effects as walkers crossed over. In all, the event attracted hundreds of visitors.

THE country dance classes in Tarset village hall were once again very popular. On a couple of occasions the dancers were able to dance to live music provided by Billy Charters, one-time Kielder postmaster, on his accordion. Although the classes are over for this year, there will be a refresher evening on December 8, with the end of season dance following on Saturday, December 13, with music by the KirkCowan Sound. The proceeds for the evening will go to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

HERE are some dates for your diary.
Thursday, November 27, is the night of the Kielder Community Christmas bingo and grand raffle, which is held in the community hall in Kielder First School, at 7pm. Friday, November 28, is the Northumberland Night in Falstone Village Hall. Starting at 7.30pm, local stars will entertain you, with MC Eddie Milligan in charge. Light refreshments will be available. Entry is free, though a donation to church funds would be appreciated. The Northumberland Travelling Theatre is coming to Kielder Community hall on Monday, December 8, to perform Straw-headed Peter, starting at 7pm. The ever-popular Turkey Trot whist drive will be held at Kielder on Thursday, December 11, at 7.30pm. On Saturday, December 20, Kielder Castle is holding a mini Christmas Fayre between 11am and 3pm. With lots of lovely gifts on offer, what a chance to tick off the last of your Christmas list. After 3pm the carol singers will be there to put you in the Christmas spirit – why not join in. On long weekends, Friday through to Monday, throughout December, Kielder Forest Christmas trees will be on sale in the castle forecourt, as well as gifts in the castle shop. To keep you refreshed while you shop, why not pop in to the Duke’s Pantry next door for a bowl of soup, perhaps, or a sandwich and a cup of tea?

FALSTONE village hall committee would like to say a big thank you to everyone who came and supported the Family Supper Dance in the village hall last Saturday. Numbers may have been small but the enjoyment was huge. The Little Big Band played every kind of music you could hope for – from ballroom to Gay Gordons, from rock ’n’ roll to line dancing. All tastes were catered for and the revellers danced the night away. A bar and wonderful supper were laid on to keep energy levels high. The evening was such a success that the committee hopes to make this an annual event. Watch this space!