Visit by HRH The Duke of Gloucester to Berwick Barracks

Built between 1717 and 1721, to the design of the renowned architect Nicholas Hawksmoor, the Berwick Barracks formed an austere setting for a showcase event by Northumbria Basketry Group during the visit to north Northumberland by HRH The Duke of Gloucester on the afternoon of April 1^st.

The event offered an outstanding platform to display baskets from all ten of our self-help groups, members' baskets from the BA 50, elegant plant support obelisks by Lou Washington, amazing willow sculptures by Anna Turnbull, and colourful bundles of locally grown Salix Alba willow. The latter brought vivid colour and natural form as a contrast to the square's hard landscape.

Charlotte Boxall organised the excellent display arrangement, and Elaine Blackett-Ord introduced the Duke to Anna, Lou, Charlotte and me. The Duke asked questions about the items on display, allowing us to elaborate about specific items. We presented the Duke with a copy of our book, "The Fishing Baskets of Northumbria", to take to his wife, who is an Honorary Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers.

The showcase event was a fitting celebration of the countless hours members have devoted to the success of Northumbria Basketry Group since we formed in 2007.

Many thanks to Caroline Pryer, the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, and to Penny Edwards and her team, who provided such magnificent support during the day.

My thanks to Elaine for the images.