News

Residents in the Bothal Ward now have five new seats to enjoy, installed by Ashington Town Council with funding from County Councillor Scott Amery.

New seats have been installed at Holy Sepulchre Church, Booths Road and Bothal Cottages (two seats). A fifth seat has been moved to a better spot in the ward. It previously sat close to the road on uneven ground at Booths Road/First Row and is now on the path running from High Market down to Holy Sepulchre Church, where it can be used safely and comfortably. The much-loved “Happy to Chat” bench at Holy Sepulchre has also been replaced in its familiar spot.

The new seats are more accessible, with armrests that make sitting down and getting up easier. They are also more durable and need less maintenance, so they will serve residents well for years to come.

Saturday 21 November 2026, 2pm to 5pm, Station Road and the Masonic Hall, Ashington

Ashington’s Christmas Light Switch On is moving to a Saturday afternoon. After many people asked at last year’s event for a Saturday instead of the usual Thursday night, organisers have made the change.

This year’s event also features a new Christmas tree, chosen by the public after last year’s tree divided opinion, with people either loving it or hating it. Once again, lighting installations will be supplied by Blachere Illuminations, a leader in the field.

“I’m delighted to be switching on the lights this year, and it’s wonderful that the event is now on a Saturday afternoon so more families can join in. There’s something for everyone, so I’d encourage everyone to come along, bring the children, support our local businesses and help us start the festive season in style.” Cllr Caroline Ball, Civic Head

The Finance and General Services Committee meeting on Tuesday 20th October 2026 at 6.00pm in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, 65 Station Road, Ashington.

Following the Hirst Division County Council Election held on Thursday 1st October, Ashington Town Council is pleased to share the official result, with Melanie Fox duly elected as County Councillor for Hirst.

Ashington Town Council has a busy October half term lined up for families.

Ashington Town Council is pleased to announce that the third round of its Small Grants Fund will open for applications on Wednesday 7 October 2026.

We’re giving some of the seats around Bothal an upgrade, thanks to funding from County Councillor Scott Amery through his Northumberland County Council Members Local Improvement Scheme (MLIS).

Ashington Town Council’s Civic Head, Cllr Caroline Ball, was delighted to attend the Harvest Thanksgiving Service at Trinity Church (Methodist / United Reformed) on Sunday 20th September.

The Full Council meeting on Tuesday 8th September 2026 at 6.00pm in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, 65 Station Road, Ashington.

Ashington’s first-ever junior parkrun will burst into life on Sunday 4th October at Hirst Welfare Centre — and every child, family and cheerleader in the town is invited.