Promise Five

Paintbrushes poised, we’re primed to be one of four host venues of what is described to be Durham County Council’s most ambitious public engagement campaign yet.
Residents of County Durham are invited to share what they love most about the Land of Prince Bishops. The stories and memories will be brought together and illustrated on a giant mural created by artists Kristian Jeffrey and Kara Strachan.
The talented duo will be here from Friday 1^st until Sunday 3^rd June outside M&S Outlet, where shoppers will be able to witness the creation taking shape.
Once complete the unique piece of artwork, which is part of the council’s ‘Celebrating Durham’ campaign, will go on a whistle stop tour of the county and beyond to showcase residents’ love of one of the UK’s most historic regions.
To feature on the mural, shoppers are asked to tell their tales of the county starting with ‘I love Durham because…’ and drop them into Dalton Park’s Customer Services.
Louise Thompson, Marketing Manager at Dalton Park, said: “There’s something about County Durham that everyone loves. Whether they live here or visit regularly, I’m sure there are millions of memories just waiting to be shared.
“Myself and the team have posted what we love about our county and can’t wait to hear our shoppers’ thoughts and watch the mural come to life at the centre next month!”
Councillor Simon Henig, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “This is the most ambitious public engagement campaign we have ever launched but we really want to show just how amazing and diverse our county is.
“It’s our places, communities, award-winning partnerships, cutting edge businesses and technologies, innovation and attitude that makes us stand out from the crowd. This artwork will celebrate all of those qualities and attributes.
“And, of course, one of the best things about County Durham is its people so it’s really important that this project reflects their thoughts on what makes our area such a great place.”
As well as Dalton Park’s Customer Services, members of the public can submit their thoughts on Durham by tweeting @DurhamCouncil and using the hashtag #HelpDurhamShine. Messages should begin with the words ‘I love Durham because…’