Friday 7 November 2014 saw a proud day in the history of Ashington and its heritage when a walking trail was officially opened to mark the site of the former colliery.

The opening event began with welcome drinks at The Portland Hotel in Ashington. Wansbeck MP Ian Lavery made a welcome speech which recognised the originator of the trail George Nichol and the contribution made by the Heritage Trail committee in bringing the project to fruition.

Guests were then transported to the trail entrance where Sir John Hall revealed the Ashington Colliery Heritage Trail sign and logo and cut the ribbon to open the footpath. An opportunity to walk the trail and read the information panels followed.

Guests then returned to The Portland Hotel for a buffet lunch and were entertained by Susan Robertson who performed The Colliers Requiem taken from the musical Fell Em Doon written by local author Mike Kirkup.

Amongst those in attendance were representatives from Northumberland County Council, Ashington Town Council, Ashington High School, including Oliver Thompson who designed the trail logo, Friends of Ashington Woods, contractors used in relation to work on the trail and a number of selected guests.