Thirty years after he took up the role of Director of what was then called the North East Civic Trust, Graham Bell has announced his retirement from Cultura to coincide with its 60th anniversary in 2025.  Graham succeeded Neville Whittaker, the first director, who also served for 30 years.  Graham has led the Trust through many significant projects throughout the North East, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and beyond, which have preserved and enriched the fabric of the region.  He will continue with his other personal roles in the UK, with Europa Nostra and across Europe. Deborah Jenkins, Chair of Cultura, is taking on the executive leadership of the Trust during a transition period from 1st August, working with trustees to ensure the continuity of existing commitments and relationships, and to build the vision for the next stage of the Trust's work. An important task in the coming months will be to celebrate the 60th anniversary, bringing together many of the people who have been involved with the Trust over six decades for a series of events in the autumn, reflecting on its history and future. From 1st August, Graham is continuing as Project Advisor on existing projects on a part time basis until his official retirement.  therefore, for all enquiries, please contact either deborah.jenkins@culturatrust.org   or joan.robson@culturatrust.org Deborah Jenkins, MBE,DL Executive Chair    

Today marks a new future for Warwick Bridge Corn Mill as ownership transfers from Cultura Trust to Warwick Bridge Corn Mill Ltd.  See full press release below:- On 28 March 2025, Cultura Trust handed over the keys and freehold of an historic watermill to Warwick Bridge Corn Mill Limited (WBCML), which has operated the mill as a tenant since 2020. This will allow WBCML to begin trading again immediately. Cultura Trust, formerly North of England Civic Trust, acquired the mill in 2015 and raised nearly £2m to purchase and restore the grade II* listed mill back to full operation, thanks to £1.4m from the The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £187,000 from Historic England, and other grants from Cumbria County Council and a range of charitable trusts and donors. A grant from the Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) in 1999/2000 had helped establish that a working mill and bakery was a viable proposition, powered by its revived historic water supply. AHF and the Plunkett Foundation provided grants and advice to establish if a Community Benefit Society could be set up to run the mill. Supported by nearly 250 not-for-profit shareholder investors and the Co-Operatives UK Community Share Scheme, fit-out of the bakery ready for operation was achieved. WBCML was born. Building up the operation of stoneground flour and artisan crafted baked products from a start during the Covid pandemic has not been easy for WBCML or Cultura. The transfer of the freehold gives WBCML full control over its premises and business; it frees up Cultura to move on to other projects. Deborah Jenkins, Chair of Cultura, explained that ‘this arrangement is a logical step for a community and its asset. It does mean that Cultura must write off a substantial debt, but our charitable role, in this our 60th anniversary year, is to enable projects and support communities.’ Fiona Brew, Co-Chair of WBCML, welcomed the opportunity that ownership of the mill brings: ‘Warwick Bridge Corn Mill Limited is excited to be able to trade again and return to supplying our markets, wholesale customers and community. We would like to thank everyone for their support and words of encouragement over the last two months and look forward to seeing you again.’ The transfer has received invaluable support from local MP, Julie Minns: ‘starting a new local venture during Covid was a tough call. But this unique project has persevered and deserves our support – and custom – as it moves into a new phase.’        

  Curious about Barnard Castle?  Come along to a FREE talk on the evening of 11th April to learn about one of the hidden gems - Ambrose Edwards' 18th century town house on Market Place and the project proposals for this property and the Castle which will benefit the town. No charge but early booking recommended - email hello@culturatrust.org    

  This week there are two chances to be involved in some tree maintenance and planting sessions at Camp Farm Maryport.  Join us on Thursday 6th February or Saturday 8th February between 10am and 4pm. Working with Sue, our community engagement officer, and the lovely volunteers at People Plant Trees you can help maintain the woodland created on the farm in 2024. See the poster for more details or clink on the link:-  https://www.peopleplanttrees.co.uk/events