‘Consett in Focus’ Documentary Photography Group first project was the ‘Consett Corona Photo Project’ which started in March 2020 at the start of the First National Lockdown.

Now as it, hopefully, reaches its conclusion, they are starting out on a new Project documenting Culture and Hobbies in the Consett area.  You can still view the original projects photographs at:

https://www.facebook.com/ConsettCoronaPhotoProject

This month we are highlighting images from the Corona Project that show Culture, plus the first image of the new project. 

‘Consett in Focus’ Documentary Photography Group
Edmunbyers, Co. Durham, ENGLAND – 9th June 2021: General photos of The Biking Vikings at Edmunbyers, Co. Durham.
(Photo by George Ledger Photography)

1 – The Biking Vikings (NE) – is a group of motorcycle riding, stilt walking, pipe and drum playing Vikings who raise funds for Brain Tumour Research. Each year they would normally perform at County Shows and other venues and raise much needed money for Brain Tumour Research charity. During the pandemic none of the events has been able to go ahead but they have still entertained various local Care Homes and managed to raise some money by making and selling Viking themed cards, crafts, models and even jewellery. Currently the same group are performing at various events and locations around our area but this time dressed as Santa’s – Do not miss them! 

Jemma Creative Kitchen (Image: Steve Webb)

2 – Creative KitchenMany people were furloughed or had to work from home during the pandemic. Jemma decided to change career and had to adapt to the changing restrictions and set up ‘Creative Kitchen’. She taught home baking to children online at first, but returned to the classroom when permitted.

‘Consett in Focus’ Documentary Photography
Consett, Co. Durham, ENGLAND -27th February 2021: General images taken of Jack Farren Ballet Instructor at Pauline Cook Dance Studio, Consett, Co. Durham, ENGLAND (Photo by George Ledger Photography)

3 –  Dance Classes –Studios such as The Pauline Cook School of Dancing in Consett, only managed to open their doors for short periods between lockdowns. However being ever resourceful, they have maintained some teaching for their dancers via Live Zoom lessons. The photograph shows Jack in the studio teaching one lesson via Zoom. 

Ros Jewellery Making Classes (Image: Debbie Todd)

4 – Jewellery Making ClassesRos opened her doors following Stage 3 of the Governments Roadmap of recovery in May 2021. This was the first time she could welcome customers to her silvery jewellery workshop which she runs at No 1 Indutrail Estate, Consett.  Her premises are covid secure and PPE is provided, along with locally home baked cakes.

‘Consett in Focus’ Photography Group
Crafting Club (Image: Chris Bruce)

5 – Crafting Club – Many Church Halls and Community Centres run craft clubs, St John’s at Snods Edge is no different. The ladies have even used their crafting skills to good use to making a Corona-19 Commemorative quilt which is on display in the church.

Music Lessons (Image: Steve Webb)

6 – Music LessonsIan, of Consett Music Tuition, had continued to tutor his pupils during the pandemic via ‘zoom’ but the normal interaction had obviously not been the same. He was certainly looking forward to welcoming back pupils to his studio in April 2021 when we photographed him.

Documentary Photography Group
Shotley Bridge, Co Durham, ENGLAND -30th May 2020: Corona virus Lockdown images, Helen Heath, Peble painter putting pebbles out around Shotley Bridge (Photo by George Ledger Photography)

7 – Pebble Painting –  Early on during the first Lockdown, Pebble painting became a popular activity to keep a smile on everyone’s face. Helen is a highly creative person who painted and hid stones in her neighbourhood for people to find.

Blackhill, Consett, Co. Durham, ENGLAND -14th December 2021: Consett in Focus (CiF) project – CBS – Pantomine rehearsal at Blackhill Club (Photo by George Ledger Photography)

8 – Pantomime – Is there a better way to put a smile on your face than see a Pantomime? The CBS Theatre Group have been ‘treading the boards’ for over 80 years and this January will be putting on Aladdin at Consett Empire (10th – 15th at 7.15pm, with a matinee on Saturday 15th at 2.15pm). The photo shows some of the cast during rehearsals at Blackhilll club.

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‘Consett in Focus’ Documentary Photography Group will continue to exhibit the Corona Project photographs and show them to as many groups in our area as possible. If you would like to know more about this :

Visit our Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/ConsettCoronaPhotoProject

Or email us – consettcoronaphoto@gmail.com


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