A wildlife charity in the region has launched its own Rock Festival as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Running between this summer and next March, geologist and trustee of Northumberland Wildfire Trust Ian Jackson will reveal a number of secrets about different sites across the region.

The event, which will take place virtually, will also use a number of images, videos and downloadable walking trails that will all be available on the NWT website.throughout the next few months.

“This region is blessed with outstanding rocks and landscape - rocks and geology play a very special role in the landscape, wildlife and history of the Region,” said Ian.

“Just think without the once molten rocks of our world famous Whin Sill Crags, Emperor Hadrian wouldn’t have had anywhere to build his Wall.”

Ian, who also lives in Bardon Mill, has previously worked for the British Geological survey for a total of 38 years and has also worked on a number of global projects involving getting geoscience data digital ready and accessible on the internet.

“Even though it’s not as obvious anymore, we all owe a lot to our rocks. Coal and lead mining used to provide the jobs for many northeastern families,” he continued.

“Most of our towns and villages would not exist without them and all our lives would be very different.

“Every one of these 50 Geo-Sites has a very special story to tell. From rocky connections with our landscape and wildlife, to the history and the origins of our heritage and culture.”

More information on the Rock Festival is available at: www.nwt.org.uk/50th-anniversary/rock-festival.