Libby's Celebration of Stanley
I’ve discovered that there’s a lot more history in Stanley than I ever realised. What really stood out to me is how much people went through in the past. Every part of Stanley has its own story, but many of them went through the same struggles—especially during the mining days. I was shocked to learn that young kids lost their lives in the mining disaster. It’s awful to think that people my age were expected to work in such dangerous conditions. It makes me feel like we should be more grateful for the lives we have now, especially when you think about what those young people went through.
Right now, I wouldn’t say Stanley is in a great place. There isn’t much communication between people—it just feels like a boring town with not much going on. In the past, there was more connection and people worked together more. I think we could bring some of that community spirit back if we really made the effort.
I’d like there to be more things to do in Stanley, and more ways for people to connect—like cinemas, sports, or even just spaces for walks and socialising without having to rely on social media. I want to actually get out, meet people, and do things in real life
“I want to actually get out, meet people. and do things in real life.”
- Libby Herdman
Consett Heritage Project / October 14th, 2024
Duncan Barnett - Consett Heritage Podcast
Duncan Barnett's ancestors came to Consett in the 1700s to work at the very earliest incarnation of the iron works, and his family worked in 'the Works' for generations. His job was in the plate mill. After the closure, he went on to get his degree, masters and PGCE and worked in the community with young people to support crime prevention in the young, and as a district councillor for Benfieldside. As well as this, he played in bands and worked in security for bands in the area. Listen to what he has to say about his eventful life in Consett and beyond.
Consett Heritage Project / March 12th, 2025
Delves Lane Primary School Poetry Anthology
The children at Delves Lane Primary School learnt about the history of the Consett Steelworks and developed their understanding of the impact that the steelworks closure had, and continues to have, on the community. They created paintings, poems and decorated a quilt. Each group chose a photo relating to the Consett Steelworks, and wrote their own poems using poetic techniques. We hope you enjoy them!
Wellbeing and the Arts / March 25th, 2026
Digital Inclusion / March 25th, 2026
Odin's Poems
As part of our digital inclusion programme, we are open to all kinds of suggestion of help from the members of the community. Odin has been to quite a few of our sessions, and we have helped him in all kinds of ways to get reconnected. This week I was personally delighted that he brought along some poetry that he has written, to share with us, and asked for our help to digitise.