🎉 The April 2026 print edition of Consett Magazine is out now.
As spring settles across Consett and the surrounding villages, this month’s issue reflects renewal, resilience, and the people who continue to shape our community in meaningful ways.
From lifelong volunteers and family-run businesses to local heritage, education, and inspiring personal stories, the April edition brings together the voices and moments that define life across DH8.
If you would like to be featured in the May 2026 issue, please call 01207 438 292 or submit your story online.
This month’s front cover features Eric and Sylvia Hepplewhite, a couple whose lifelong dedication to community life in Lanchester continues to inspire generations.
What’s Inside the April 2026 Edition
From Boys’ Brigade to Village Poppy Project: Eric Hepplewhite’s Story
A powerful story of lifelong service, youth leadership, and a remarkable community project that brought thousands together.
Butsfield Young Farmers Club Still Thriving After More Than 90 Years
A celebration of youth, tradition, and community spirit, showing how local organisations continue to evolve and inspire.
Why Mealtimes Matter at Shotley Bridge Nursery School
A thoughtful insight into early years education, independence, and how everyday moments shape lifelong skills.
Hop into Spring: Volunteer and Support Your Local Hospice
Opportunities to give back locally, highlighting the vital work of Willow Burn Hospice and its volunteers.
Behind the Baton: William E. Westgarth MBE
A look back at the man who helped shape Consett’s musical heritage and brought a community together through song.
The Divergent Journeys of Two Shotley Bridge Swords
A fascinating historical feature connecting local craftsmanship to national and international heritage.
The People Behind the Pour: Dougie Hannaby
A behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s largest employers and the people driving its success.
The Family Behind Lanchester Country Basket
A story of local enterprise, resilience, and keeping village life thriving through independent business.
Steph Leithrow and the Story Behind Country Homes and Gifts
A family-run business at the heart of Lanchester, built on community, creativity, and connection.
New College Durham’s Leadership Enables Launch of Connect Multi Academy Trust
A regional milestone in education, reflecting long-term impact and future growth across County Durham.
A Life of Determination, Science and Quiet Generosity
A moving tribute to a proud Consett native whose life journey left a lasting legacy.
Community Features, Poetry, and Local Voices
From creative writing to community updates, celebrating the voices that make Consett unique.
Have a Story to Share?
Consett Magazine is made by and for the people of DH8.
If you have a business to promote, a community event to highlight, or a local story worth telling, we’d love to hear from you.
Print deadline: 15th of each month, distributed in the first week of every month.
📧 [email protected]
📞 01207 438 292
🖊️ Submit your story online with firefly.ad – Add news, not noise
Front Cover Image, Eric and Sylvia Hepplewhite, photographed by George Ledger – Communities in Focus, in the Consett Magazine April 2026 Print Edition




