A Place of Solace

As Freemen, we all know how important it is to protect the Moors – but how important is it to others? Our intrepid reporter Tracy Kenny (Tanners) caught up with a couple of Newcastle residents to find out… During the COVID-19 pandemic, many have sought solace in the simple pleasures of the Town Moor; the vast open green space providing a much-needed safe haven to promote physical and mental wellbeing during an otherwise fraught time. We caught up with Karen and Arnie Green, who have been living in a flat on the very edge of the Town Moor for 20 years and as a result, couldn’t have felt more blessed during lockdown. “Back in 2000, we were slightly dubious about viewing a first floor flat, but as soon as we stepped through the front door and were greeted with panoramic views of the Town Moor set against a stunning sunset, we knew this was our forever home. 20 years on, we still have everything we need right here and adore the fact we can look out of our window at 1000 rolling acres, dotted with cows peacefully grazing, yet we are only a 30 minute walk from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The Town Moor really was a place of solace for us during March/April; we walked daily across the moor and often racked up to 11 miles on the Fitbit without even having to leave the Town Moor boundaries. It was also great to see so many families walking and playing out together, not just the usual individuals walking their dog, but complete family groups with both parents! Our neighbours are both elderly and due to health issues haven’t been out of their flat since March, apart from walking their dog every day on the moor. If it wasn’t for the moor on their doorstep, I’m certain they wouldn’t have ventured outside at all which would have been devastating for their mental health. The large amount of space available ensured they could keep 20 metres apart from anyone else (rather than the recommended 2) if they so wished, which was just that added peace of mind. Seeing snowdrops or daffodils are the more common signs that denote Spring is here, but in our flat the sign is slightly more unique – the sudden appearance of cows on the Town Moor. When we first spot cows on the Town Moor (normally in April) we know for certain that winter is over and spring is here. The cows are very entertaining when they first arrive and charge around kicking their back legs and head butting each other, having an absolute ball – it’s just wonderful to watch. A few years ago, we were privileged to witness one of the cows giving birth to a calf just outside of our window, it was tiny and jet black, it had us absolutely mesmerised for days – so it’s fair to say life on the Town Moor is never dull. If this last year has taught us anything, it’s to be grateful for what you have and count your blessings; the Town Moor with all it’s simple pleasures and natural wonders would absolutely be at the top of our list”