The original Ponteland Hide was supported by a donation from the Group over 20 years ago and was due a renovation, so when plans to do this were announced, its members decided they would like to maintain the link, and contribute financially towards the work. The money raised came from the donations made by members attending group meetings and walks.

Accepting the cheque from Ponteland Group Chair Chris Wright, Alex Lister Northumberland Wildlife Trust Druridge Bay Living Landscapes Manager said: “This is a very welcome surprise from the Ponteland Group and I am delighted its members wanted to maintain their strong links with us and keep their Ponteland Hide going for a few more years to come.”

Meeting on average once a month, the Group has been in existence for 44 years, has a mailing list of hundreds of supporters and usual attendance at its meetings usually welcome between 40-50 people.