Partners in Creative Learning will work with Stoke-on-Trent City Archives to uncover the hidden story of the suburb of Bentilee. Buried in the city archives and underneath the grass of Berry Hill Fields nature reserve lie a wealth of mining stories waiting to be explored.

In an another project, New Vic Youth Theatre will be working with the Wedgwood Institute, managed by the Prince’s Regeneration Trust, to collect people’s memories of the iconic Burslem building. This youth-led project will complement the much larger £2.5million Heritage Enterprise grant allocated by HLF to support the planned regeneration of the site.

These new awards add to the cumulative impact of HLF-support in the area, and represent their on-going commitment to investing in the heritage of Newcastle under Lyme. HLF awards in Newcastle now total over £4m.

[quote=Alison Wedgwood, HLF committee member]"I'm absolutely delighted about this HLF-support going to two extremely worthwhile projects in North Staffordshire"[/quote]

Alison Wedgwood, HLF committee member and ex-councillor for Bentilee said: “I'm absolutely delighted about this HLF-support going to two extremely worthwhile projects in North Staffordshire, it yet again goes to show how much incredible heritage exists in the area. It also demonstrates how local organisations can come up with innovative ideas to engage the next generation to really explore and cherish their heritage.”

Lynn Parry, New Vic Project Manager, said: “We weren’t sure about approaching HLF for our group’s project but are so delighted that we did and would encourage other groups based in the Newcastle area to do the same.”

Apply for funding

There will be a funding surgery for youth groups to come and discuss their ideas for new heritage projects on Tuesday 8 November at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, from 10am-3pm. Advanced booking is essential so please contact local officer Elise Turner on 0121 616 6883 or via email.