Written by Kevin O'Hara, conservation officer at Northumberland Wildlife Trust

Where do they all go in winter? - Part 1

Recently I felt the first twangs of winter; the 'first frost' gripped my garden, the chickens came skidding out of their ark, and I had to break the ice on their drinking water. I really like those first days, when we still have some daylight left to enjoy the wonderful colours and smells. I take the camera and binoculars with me when I walk the dogs, keeping an eye out for winter thrushes or other visitors. The clocks have altered and we start the long haul of winter - not until February will some real light return to the sky, and warmth to the sun.

It is during these months that we wonder where, exactly, many of our resident wildlife species go to survive the coldest and wettest days of winter, especially those that are more delicate and less mobile.

Be part of The World's Biggest Coffee Morning, Macmillan Cancer Support's biggest fundraising event in the calendar. On Friday 30th September 2011 from 10 until 1pm the annual Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning and Lunch is taking place at Bell View Resource Centre in Belford.

Last year this national event raised over £8 million, enabling Macmillan Cancer Support to improve the lives of people affected by cancer, both those living with cancer and also their families and carers.  Providing vital medical, emotional, practical and financial support, pushing for a better cancer care system. For anyone, at any time, for as long as they need, giving people the strength and energy to face the fight and get through it.

Sent in by Bell View Belford

Have you or someone you care for been affected by stroke?

If so the Stroke Association, a nationwide charity working with a local charity Bell View based in Belford, would love to hear from you.

It is launching a Peer Support Service, which aims to provide support and information for stroke survivors and their carers. Why not come along to an information event on 1st September at 1pm at Bell View Resource Centre on West Street in Belford. Or contact your local coordinator Trish McLaughlin on 07852953133 for more details of this or future planned events.

Bryan Johnson sent in these pictures of a model boat exhibition which continues this week at the Methodist Church in Seahouses. All the models have been hand-crafted by local fishermen.

The models are on display from 10am-4pm today, tomorrow and Wednesday, with refreshments available in the hall. Entry is free but donations to church funds are appreciated.

Pictured from left: Ken Dawson (fisherman) Robert Douglas (lifeboat coxwain) Rev Pauline Fellows, G N Dawson (fisherman) and Ron Burton (fisherman)

Sent in by Paul Harrison from Bell View

Bell View, a charity based in Belford, recently got together a group of older people for lunch to promote the launch of their new and expanded food service 'Good food to your Door'. Freshly prepared nutritious meals available for older people in the Belford area, to pick up, have delivered or enjoy in the Community Café. Meals provision which is flexible, reliable and good value, at the same time catering for a wide range of dietary needs, with a varied menu.

The newly-planned service consists of three main elements these being, the Frozen Meals service, enabling people to buy frozen meals in bulk. Choosing from a monthly menu, with vegetarian options which can be collected or delivered free within a five mile radius of Belford.

Sent in by Bell View

Nordic Walking Sessions with qualified tuition are due to start on a weekly basis in Belford. The charity Bell View working in partnership with Age UK Northumberland and North Country Leisure Sport Development are encouraging people to sign up and give it a try.

Making the most of the beautiful rural location, these sessions can be adapted to suit most levels of ability, with the overall aim of keeping people active, improving health and well being, and increasing strength.

Sent in by Bell View Belford

Older People from Bell View enjoying a feast of Strawberries and Cream at Bell View in Belford.

Sent in by Bell View Belford

Bell View Resource Centre on West Street in Belford are hoping for fantastic Summer weather for the day, as they are busy organizing their Annual Summer Fair. Taking place on Sunday 3rd July from 2 to 4pm, in addition to music from "Heads on the Block" performing in the gardens there will be a raffle, tombola, bric a brac and cake stall, followed up by a delicious cream tea.

Resource Centre Manager Paul Harrison said: "We hope as many local people as possible will join us, enjoying the food, music and good company, at the same time supporting our work in Northumberland as a charity!".

Sent in by Bell View Belford

Congratulations go to Sarah Elliott from Belford after she was lucky enough to win the special Anniversary 49 Club Draw at Bell View in Belford.

Resource Centre Manager Paul Harrison said: "Our weekly lottery scheme, the 49 club has proved a great success, where supporters can win cash whist at the same time the Charity also benefits from much needed funds".

Numbers are still available, to support this worthy cause which ultimately strives to make a difference to the lives of Older People in North Northumberland, contact Bell View on 01668 219220.

Pictured: Bell View volunteer Dorothy Goodall (on the left) handing over £95 to winner Sarah Elliott

Sara Fisher took this picture of boats at Beadnell.

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