AN HISTORIC get-together held almost every year in Prudhoe is to begin again with a slightly different arrangement.

The Prudhoe People's Treat is over 100 years old but couldn't take place last year because of coronavirus restrictions.

Brenda Wilkin, Treasurer of the Prudhoe People's Treat, said: "People keep asking when the Treat will be coming back.

"We just feel that it’s something nice for the community.  I’ve been helping for 31 years, I love going and enjoying a treat."

This year's event will be an afternoon tea.  It will take place on December 7, 8 and 9.

Ms Wilkin said: "It's been going for 117 years.  We didn't want to go and do nothing so we're doing the same event on a smaller scale.

Usually 150 people attend each day, but last year they couldn't host the event as all gatherings were illegal due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.  

It's an occasion looked forward to by people who haven't seen friends for 12 months - this year that number might be 24.

They will have a gathering of 40 people on each of the days and it will be held at Prudhoe Big Club.

They are keen for this not to scare people off, however.

She said: "A lot of people still suffer from social distancing, so it will be COVID-friendly and socially-distanced. 

"Once it gets going, you won't notice a difference to normal.  It will be the same event as usual with all the entertainment we usually do.  There will also be plenty of room for people to dance and enjoy themselves in their bubbles at their tables."

The organisers want to encourage people of all ages to attend the event, which used to be called 'Prudhoe Old People's Treat' and 'Prudhoe Aged People's Treat'.

This was changed when many of the attendants noted that they didn't feel particularly old or aged and it should be opened up to all.

"We've managed to persuade some younger people to come over the past few years and it's important that they do so that this tradition doesn't die.  We would ask people to give it a chance and get a ticket."

To book your seat, contact Lynn on 07719 966 763 or Brenda on 01661 835171 by August 31.