This autumn homes and gardens at Wood Green took centre stage in a celebration of Recipes for Life.

Washing lines were adorned with textile banners and walls turned into murals mapping the neighbourhood following the year-long project.

Together pupils from The Drive Community Primary School and the hensioners created the artwork, reflecting the things that make for a good life.

Funded with £10,000 from Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All, the project aimed to improve wellbeing and reduce loneliness by developing community links and relationships through creativity.

Pupil Lily Perrin, aged eight, said: “I’ve really enjoyed spending time with the hensioners, hearing about their lives and all of the things they have done.

“I liked doing the artwork and seeing my friends enjoying themselves. It is nice to be able to help someone, young or old, to try something new and working together has been great.”

Supported by Equal Arts, the group worked with textile artists, film-makers and ceramicists to document their ideas through stories, drawing, painting, collage, pottery, film and photographs.

Our associate Betty Hill said: “A key part of the project was the time the group spent baking and eating together, sharing ideas and stories.

“The project has fostered valuable relationships between the two groups, it’s been fantastic to see what they’ve created, learning alongside one another.”

Over 50 pupils and members of the community turned out for celebratory event at the sheltered housing scheme in Bill Quay run by The Gateshead Housing Company.

Lesley McCartney, Year 3 teacher, added: “The feedback back from pupils and parents has been so positive. Families have told me how excited their children have been when they know they’re visiting Wood Green, it’s been great to see them learning so much from one another.”