
Living On The Edge
ALLAN POTTS watches our wildlife struggling for survival in the short, cruel days of mid-winter.
Christmas Gifts And Treats
THERE is still time to go out into Northumberland to find some Christmas shopping inspiration.
The 47-pipe Salute To A Master Musician

STEWART BONNEY learns about an annual course for students of the Northumbrian pipes inspired by one of the instrument’s greatest exponents.
Green Symbols To Mark Winter’s Darkest Days
TONY JOISCE examines the history and traditions associated with Christmas trees.
Hot On The Trail Of The Grey Invaders
STEWART BONNEY meets front-line combatants in the battle to rid the county of grey squirrels.
Something Of The Night
MIKE PRATT, Chief Executive of Northumberland Wildlife Trust, advocates a journey of discovery into the darkness.
Why We Shouldn’t Kill The Messenger
Doves have lived alongside humans throughout recorded history. IAN KERR looks at this versatile bird which is capable of arousing such contrasting emotions.
A Shoreline Spectacular
STEWART BONNEY seeks expert advice on where to go birdwatching along the coast this winter.
Curtain-raiser To The Manor’s Secret Garden
Thrust into the limelight when it featured in a creative theatrical event, a secluded walled garden will soon reveal its hidden life to a wider audience.
A Dog Walker’s Winter
ANDY CRAIG never leaves home to embark on his daily coastal walk without Trooper the lurcher — and his trusty camera.
A Performer With Rhythm In His Bones
PHIL HUNTLEY meets an entertainer whose unusual choice of instrument has been heard by audiences both at home and abroad.
Following The Plot Can Pay Dividends
RUNNING a smallholding involves a lot of hard work at times but for members of the Northumbria Smallholders’ Association it’s a far from unrewarding or lonely life. In between monthly social evenings, where the highlight is a tasty pool supper, they also get together at regular craft club nights where advice and ideas are exchanged, and they turn their hands to activities ranging from carving dressed sticks to spinning wool. STEWART BONNEY talked to two couples who play leading roles in this active community group.
A Rare Collection Of Four-legged Gems

SUSAN BURKE meets Barbara Murdy and the reindeer she keeps at her remote North Tynedale farmstead.
A Walk Through The Tranquillity Of Winter
JOHN SURGEY finds rural peace in abundance on a route linking Allendale and the small settlement of Wooley.
Building Walls That Won't Come Tumbling Down

SUSIE WHITE meets a master craftsman whose stone walls and buildings can be seen in gardens across the country.
Also In This Issue...
NEWS VIEW
Cheviot rivers' clean bill of health
New coastal plan crosses boundaries
Shore-on-line
First with first aid
Bats welcome at restored bastle
BOOK REVIEWS
READERS' LETTERS
WHAT'S ON GUIDE




