FROM street parties to giant stotties and Guinness World Record attempts.

That's the legacy of an event which has made such an impact on the Tyne Valley and beyond over the past half decade.

The annual Northumberland Day has become a leading event on the county's calendar, celebrating the county's culture, heritage and people.

And while it couldn't take place as normal due to the coronavirus pandemic last spring, Northumberland Day proved it could still be a real hit with a host of online activities.

The celebration was the brainchild of Dr Stuart Madnick, the American businessman who grew to love the Tyne Valley and Northumberland as a whole.

Dr Madnick has owned Langley Castle, south of Haydon Bridge, since 1986, and the Mediaeval castle has provided an iconic backdrop for the event.

Northumberland Day was launched five years ago with a successful attempt by the castle's head chef, Mark Percival, to successfully make what was believed to be the world’s biggest stottie.

Working alongside Dean Gibbon, head baker at Geordie Bakers in Newcastle, Mark produced the flour-based delight, which was one metre in diameter and weighed over 60kg once filled with ham and pease pudding.

The first cut of the stottie was made by the sword of military historian and re-enactment specialist John Sadler, before it was cut into smaller sections and sold off to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance.

Flags, banners and balloons bearing the county’s colours were the order of the day at a series of activities.

In Haydon Bridge, Church Street was closed to traffic as people of all ages took part in fun-filled events.

A giant Northumberland flag was raised in the middle of the street, while musicians performed, a picnic was eaten and children had their faces painted.

They even threw wet sponges at the Rev. Benjamin Carter, who was one of four villagers who agreed to place their heads and hands in the pillory.

Celebrations also took place in Haltwhistle, which included Northumberland Day walks organised by Haltwhistle Walking Festival.

Crowds also turned out at Hexham Abbey, where young string artists and Northumbrian piper Sue Dunne provided a musical backdrop for a memorable day of heritage and history-focused activities led by Kevin Robson of Wild Dog Outdoors.

While the pandemic is likely to restrict activities again in 2021, more online celebrations are expected on May 30.