History in the making
EMMA CURRY
ADRY stone-walling project which helped rebuild 42 metres of wall in Lumb ended with a celebratory event.
Representatives from Proffitts – Investing in Communities, society of musicians the Larks of Dean Quire and everyone involved gathered at Peers Clough Farm to mark the conclusion of Build the Past.
The scheme was funded by a Heritage Lottery grant and included 15 practical dry stone walling days with master dry stone waller Alan Rhodes, including one when Water Primary School pupils took part, helping to rebuild a stretch of wall.
Volunteers also helped to research the history of the local area at Lancashire Archives, Bacup Natural History Museum and Rawtenstall Library.
The group were welcomed at the farm for the celebratory event by staff from Proffitts, before Larks of Dean Quire leader Jane Seymour spoke, and there was a performance of old hymns to tunes composed by the original Larks.
The event continued with a chance for guests to explore the exhibition and there were activities for children to take part in.
Interpretation panels provided information about the area and artwork by Water Primary School pupils was on display.
A guided walk was led across the moors by Chris Thomas from Peers Clough Farm, and walkers were given special permission to enter the chapel by English Heritage.
Rachael Gildert from Proffitts – Investing in Communities said: “After a very gloomy start to the day, the weather became bright and sunny just in time for the launch and we were able to enjoy a really fantastic afternoon.
“The performance by the Larks of Dean Quire, even in the rustic barn setting was truly wonderful.
“It was great to welcome so many visitors on the day and share what we had learnt about the area and follow in the footsteps of the original Larks of Dean across the moors to Goodshaw Chapel, which had been specially opened for the occasion.
“Thank you to everyone who has taken part and been involved in the past few months.”