Farming families in Upper Coquetdale celebrate their new mains electricity connection.

Farming families in a remote valley in Upper Coquetdale in the beautiful Northumberland National Park have finally got mains electricity for the first time. Cables are run underground "wherever possible to preserve the area's natural beauty and reduce visual impact." (Picture gallery in comments.) | AI News Digest

Published: August 30, 2025, 6:13 p.m. Human Interest Positive

Farming families in Upper Coquetdale, Northumberland, have finally received mains electricity after decades of reliance on generators. The connection, funded by the Home Office and Ministry of Defence, was made possible by the need to power emergency communication masts in the area. Residents like Shona Anderson express joy at the newfound convenience, allowing them to enjoy modern amenities without the hassle of power outages. The project included a mix of overhead and underground lines to preserve the area's natural beauty. While some homes remain off-grid, the community is grateful for the progress made and the opportunities it brings for future generations.

NorthumberlandMains ElectricityFarmingCommunityRural Development