A REGENERATION project continues to go from strength to strength as it reaches its landmark 10th birthday.

Supporters of No. 28, a project to help regenerate Hexham’s east end, gathered at Hexham Priory School for a fun day to celebrate a decade since its formation.

The organisation hosts a wide range of initiatives to make local residents feel part of the community, ranging from creating a community garden, hosting a branch of the Northumberland Credit Union, clubs and activities.

To mark the 10th birthday, a fun-filled day of activities was held with Hexham East Residents’ Association providing go karts and entertainer Nutty Professor, while Claire’s Cool Creatures also attended with her range of animals including pigs, hens, turtles, lizards and a snake.

Active Northumberland brought a rowing machine and an archery set to let people have a go at a new sport.

Claire Heaviside, No. 28 project manager, said: “There’s so many people to thank, not just for all the fantastic help and support everyone gave us on the day of our 10th birthday, but to all the wonderful people who have massively contributed to Number 28 over the past 10 years.

“From supporting residents in times of great difficulty to learning essential life skills, and even learning to make jam, we’ve done it all.”

The project was supported by Northumberland County Council and housing association Karbon Homes, who provided much-needed funds to the scheme.

Karbon’s community investment manager, Paul Moralee, said: “I love the No. 28 community house and all the work that goes on there. It’s a real hub of the community in Hexham East and it was great to be able to celebrate its 10th birthday with both the Number 28 team and the many members of the local community that use the project.

“The work of No. 28 mirrors that of Karbon’s perfectly, which is why the partnership has continuously grown from strength to strength.

“It brings people together, through a variety of groups and activities with something to suit all ages, helping to create a strong, sustainable community which benefits the many Karbon residents living in the area.”

There a number of activities planned at No. 28 in the coming months.