A COMMUNITY group born out of Haydon Bridge’s success in lobbying for a by-pass is growing in both size and stature.

The Get It Together Society, abbreviated to GITS, was set up five years ago to organise social events in a village previously divided by the busy A69 trunk road.

Its name was initially a light-hearted and temporary title and its remit was simply to provide new opportunities for people to meet and make new friends.

Now the group, which hosted a successful fireworks display on the Old Bridge at New Year and organised the Haydon Bridge Performing Arts Festival for two consecutive summers, is planning for the long-term.

The society’s vice-secretary, retired clergyman John Harrison, said the group has the potential for many more community-based events, but has stressed that support from local people will be key.

He said: “The name was temporary, but I think it’s here to stay. The group has developed in shape and formality and I think it has a positive role to play.

“The building of the by-pass pulled the village together. There was a memorable street party when it opened and since then there has been more scope for social activities.

“We have built this momentum and so long as our events are wanted and supported by the community, we’ll keep doing them.

“We’re all working for the good of the village and its people and we welcome input from other groups and individuals.”

The GITS’s most high profile event came in June 2014 when Mr Harrison dressed as a bride to take part in a six-and-a-half-mile walk along Hadrian’s Wall, which was followed by a mock wedding.

It raised £1,500 for Tynedale Hospice at Home and also the Haydon Bridge Performing Arts Festival.

The GITS is enjoying an active summer. In July, it hosted a Songs from Stage and Screen event at St. Cuthbert’s Church and a family picnic at Shaftoe Trust Primary School’s walled garden.

A quiz will take place at the General Havelock Inn, on August 18, from 8.15pm, and on September 19, there will be a 70s disco at the Haydonian Social Club.

All events are in aid of future village events, which are likely to include another New Year fireworks display.

More details at www.getittogethersociety.co. uk