First for oaks
The tree which gave Derwent its name is about to be celebrated in the area’s first ever three-day oak festival.
Derwent comes from the Celtic word derw or daur, meaning oak tree. ’Old knobbly’ will be traced back to its roots in the spring calling where crafts, drama, history and heritage combine to extol Quercus petraea.
Running into the Easter weekend, Derwent Oak Festival - from 9 to 11 April - promises plenty of action. There will be a raft of demonstrations where skills ranging from riven-oak fencing to charcoal burning, sculpting, swill-basket and pencil making will be shared.
Behind the gathering is Bassenthwaite Reflections, the community landscape programme designed to encourage people to look after the lake and its surroundings.
Festival organiser, Andy Winthorpe, of Grampus Heritage and Training, said the family event was a perfect way of reaching out to locals and visitors to show the impact of such an important and historic species.
He said: "It’s easy to take oaks for granted but the significance to the area is immeasurable. England’s most distinguished and well loved trees have special relevance to the Derwent area. We have ancient oak woodlands and a bounty of history linking back to Norse times.
"We hope people will come along and enjoy a great programme running across three days. There are even 150 free tree oak saplings to be handed out. We aim to appeal to all ages and abilities and a warm welcome awaits."
Theatre by the Lake will be visiting the festival with a presentation of Storytree on Good Friday and Easter Saturday. And Romanian textile students join Cumbrian peers to show off oak-inspired fashion at lunchtime every day.
Special activities for children are planned and there will be samples of oaky foods and drinks, including smoked meats and cheeses.
"Because oaks are in our history and hearts, a festival in their honour is long overdue," said Andy.
"We are delighted to be staging this event and look forward to sharing skills and knowledge. Where else could you see a totem pole being carved and walk away with your own little oak – first come first served for saplings!"
The festival will be held at Derwent Hill, next to Portinscale footbridge, from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free and the programme varies daily.
Ring 016973 21516 to find out more. Reflections is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. For further information call 017687 73204 /74785 or www.bassenthwaite-reflections.co.uk
