Community Unites in Poignant Tribute at Northumberland Miners’ Picnic Memorial Service

15 June 2026

The Northumberland Miners’ Picnic Memorial Service took place on Saturday 13th June 2026 at Woodhorn Museum, drawing what organisers believe to be the most well-attended service in the event’s long and
proud history. Despite a brisk, windy day, the sunshine held and the community came together in their hundreds to pay heartfelt tribute to the miners who dedicated and in many cases gave their lives to
Northumberland’s coal industry.

A Moving and Solemn Ceremony

The service, led by Ministers of Ashington & Newbiggin Churches Together, provided a deeply reflective space for former mining families, dignitaries, union representatives and members of the public to come together in shared remembrance. The atmosphere throughout was one of quiet dignity and community pride.

A particularly powerful moment came with the performance by the Ashington & District Male Voice Choir of ‘Woodhorn Disaster’, written by Derek Hobbs and Mike Kirkup as part of their celebrated work ‘Fell ’em Doon’. The piece names all 13 miners who lost their lives in the Woodhorn Colliery disaster of 1916, ensuring that each man was remembered by name. The choir’s rendition moved many in attendance and served as a fitting centrepiece to the commemorations.

Music throughout the service was also provided by Brass Marras, whose accompaniment added further warmth and solemnity to the occasion.

Laying of Wreaths

Wreaths were laid by an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, elected representatives, trade union members and community organisations, reflecting the breadth of support for preserving Northumberland's mining heritage. Among those paying their respects were the Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland, the High Sheriff of Northumberland, the Mayor of Newbiggin by the Sea, Ian Lavery MP for Blyth and Ashington, Civic Head of Ashington Caroline Ball, and Chair of Northumberland County Council, Councillor John Beynon.

“This memorial service stands as a poignant reminder of our mining heritage and honours all those who worked in the Northumberland Coal Mines. It’s a time for reflection and remembrance as we pay our respects to the miners who shaped our community. To see so many people come together today with such warmth is truly humbling.”

— Ashington Civic Head Cllr Caroline Ball

A Celebration for All the Family

After the service, the Northumberland Miners’ Picnic continued in fine form for the rest of the day. Children enjoyed a wonderful range of crafts and activities, while families gathered around the stage to enjoy a full programme of live entertainment. The atmosphere throughout the day was one of celebration as much as remembrance — a joyful reflection of the community spirit that the Picnic has always embodied.

Heartfelt Thanks

Organisers wish to extend their sincere and heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this year’s service and Picnic such a memorable occasion. In particular, grateful thanks are due to:

• Woodhorn Museum: for providing such a fitting and beautiful setting, and for their continued support of this important event.

• Ashington & Newbiggin Churches Together: for leading a service of genuine spiritual depth and compassion.

• The Ashington & District Male Voice Choir: for their deeply moving performance of ‘Woodhorn Disaster’, honouring the 13 men lost in the 1916 colliery disaster with dignity and tremendous heart.

• Brass Marras: for their musical contribution, which added so much to the atmosphere of the day.

• All dignitaries and union representatives: who travelled to lay wreaths and stand in solidarity with the mining community.

• Every volunteer, organiser and supporter: whose hard work behind the scenes made the day run so smoothly.

• All members of the public: who attended and showed that the memory of Northumberland’s miners remains very much alive.

We look forward to welcoming the community again next year for what continues to be one of the most important and cherished events in Northumberland’s calendar.

Photographs courtesy of Ashington Camera Club