Annfield Plain
An academic exploration of a County Durham village, detailing its rich heritage, geographical context, and notable figures.
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Defining Annfield Plain
Village Overview
Annfield Plain is a village situated within County Durham, England. It occupies a strategic position on a plateau, nestled between the larger towns of Stanley to the northeast and Consett to the west. Historically, its development was intrinsically linked to the region's significant coal mining industry.
Demographics
According to the 2001 census, Annfield Plain recorded a population of 3,569 residents. By the time of the 2011 Census, the village had been incorporated into the ward of Stanley parish, with the ward itself encompassing a population of 7,774. This demographic data reflects the evolving administrative and residential landscape of the area.
Geographical Context
The village is characterized by its plateau location, with much of the surrounding landscape comprising rough moorland. A prominent feature in the vicinity is the Pontop Pike television mast, a significant landmark visible across the region. Annfield Plain is situated within the broader Derwentside area, with proximity to the Tyneside–Wearside conurbation, placing it approximately 12 miles (19 km) from Newcastle upon Tyne and a similar distance from Sunderland.
Geographical Features
Topography and Elevation
Annfield Plain is situated at an elevation of approximately 250 meters (850 feet) above sea level. This elevated position on the plateau influences the local climate and landscape, contributing to the character of the surrounding moorland.
Historical Transport Links
Historically, the village was served by the Stanhope and Tyne Railway, a crucial artery for transporting coal during the 19th century. While the original route has been largely superseded, parts of it now form the basis of the Sea to Sea Cycle Route (C2C), which passes through Annfield Plain, connecting Whitehaven in Cumbria to Sunderland on the east coast.
Road Network
The village is strategically located with access to key road networks. The A693, historically passing through Annfield Plain and now bypassing it to the southwest, connects Consett and Stanley. Additionally, the A6076 provides access towards Lanchester, and the B6168 links to Catchgate and Flint Hill, eventually joining the A692 towards Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Historical Trajectory
Early Settlement and Industry
The earliest evidence of habitation in the Annfield Plain area dates back to the 16th century, primarily associated with sheep farming. The village's deep connection with mining began in the late 17th century with the excavation of shallow mines. The construction of the Stanhope and Tyne Railway in 1834 significantly boosted the transportation of coal, and limekilns were established, utilizing local coal and imported limestone.
Industrial Revolution Impact
The burgeoning Industrial Revolution fueled a substantial increase in coal demand. This led to the sinking of numerous deep mines throughout the 19th century. Annfield Plain experienced considerable growth, with the development of light industries including a brewery, a mill, and a candle factory. Essential services, such as a school, a church, nonconformist chapels, and various shops, were established to support the growing population.
Name Origin
The name "Annfield Plain" has historical roots. "Anfield" likely derives from "the fields of An," referring to an individual predating the Norman Conquest. The "Plain" component originally referred to an inclined plane on the Stanhope and Tyne Railway of 1834. The engine powering this plane was known as the Anfield Engine due to its proximity to Anfield House. The spelling evolved to "Annfield Plain" around 1856, coinciding with the construction of housing for miners on the plateau.
Administrative Framework
Governance and Representation
Annfield Plain falls under the jurisdiction of the County Durham unitary authority. Locally, the village is represented on Durham County Council by councillors Michele Hodgson and Thomas Nearney, both affiliated with the Labour party. At the national level, Annfield Plain is situated within the North Durham parliamentary constituency, represented in the UK Parliament by Kevan Jones (Labour).
Public Services
The primary law enforcement agency serving Annfield Plain is Durham Constabulary. The village is located within the Derwentside division, with the nearest police station situated in Catchgate. Emergency medical services are provided by the North East Ambulance Service, and fire services are covered by the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.
Notable Figures
Arts and Entertainment
Annfield Plain has been the birthplace or home of several notable individuals in the arts:
- Alun Armstrong: An acclaimed actor, known for his roles in the original cast of Les Misérables and the television series New Tricks.
- Tom Lamb: A former miner who transitioned into a respected artist, renowned for his depictions of underground mining life.
Sports and Public Service
The village has also produced figures prominent in sports and public service:
- Glenn McCrory: A former professional boxer who held the Cruiserweight World Champion title.
- Joseph Crawford: A significant trade unionist, who served as President of the Trades Union Congress and General Secretary of the National Association of Colliery Overmen, Deputies and Shotfirers.
- Darren Grimes: A political commentator and currently a Councillor for the Annfield Plain ward, elected in 2025.
- Micky Horswill: A former professional footballer.
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References
References
- âAnnfield Plain Golf Clubâ, âGolfâs Missing Linksâ.
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Academic Disclaimer
Important Notice
This document has been meticulously crafted by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. It is intended solely for informational and educational purposes, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview suitable for advanced academic study.
This is not a substitute for professional consultation. The content presented herein should not be considered definitive historical, geographical, or administrative advice. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source material, users are encouraged to consult primary sources and expert opinions for critical decision-making or in-depth research.
The creators of this AI-generated content are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.