Illuminated Sheep will have people flocking to library events

26 Oct 2022 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Northumberland Library Service is shining a light on its work in the community by taking part in the county-wide ‘Illuminated Sheep’ project.

‘Illuminated Sheep’ is part of Lindisfarne Gospels 2022 – a programme of events inspired by the display of the Lindisfarne Gospels in the North East this autumn.

A full flock of 30 life-sized illuminated sheep, created by artist Deepa Mann-Kler, will appear around the area – including County Hall and many of the county’s libraries.

Cllr Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: “The Illuminated Sheep are bound to be popular with children and adults alike.

“There are plenty of events where people will be able to see the illuminated sheep and where they can get involved in the project – one of my favourites baa none!

“The initiative is another way we can enrich the experience of using our library service for the people in our communities and at the same time promote the exhibition of the historic Anglo Saxon ‘Lindisfarne Gospels.”

Pupils from Morpeth First school visited County Hall to hear sheepy stories and create a fantastic Northumberland flag themed blanket to keep the sheep warm.

Children’s author Morag Hood toured libraries in the north of the county with children from St Mary's First school Berwick, Branton Primary, St Michael’s Primary Alnwick and Amble First for a workshop featuring her picture book Brenda is a Sheep

Three sheep focused author events will include a talk with The Red Shepherdess Hannah Jackson. Sally Unwin will talk about her new book ‘What The Flock’ – which looks at raising children, rearing animals and other goings-on at the family farm (Alnwick Playhouse Wednesday, November 2, 7pm).

And naturalist and writer Lee Schofield will be at Hexham Library, Queen's Hall on Tuesday, November 8, at 7pm to discuss his book ‘Wild Fell’ about his ‘rewilding’ work in the Lake District National Park.

There are also lots of free half term activities for youngsters including Spooky Sheep events combining the themes of Halloween and sheep - events are at Bedlington, Prudhoe, Cramlington, Ashington and Hexham.

And for those with a crafty streak in them why not try Felt Making as part of the Big Draw Festival at Hexham, Cramlington, Ashington and Berwick Libraries?

*To book or for more information go to www.eventbrite.com/cc/illuminated-sheep-1230289.

For more information about the Illuminated Sheep project go to www.visitnorthumberland.com/explore/things-to-do/events/arts-culture/illuminated-sheep