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CHARLIE Allen is the Canon Chancellor at Durham Cathedral. “I’ve only been in post for a short time, but I’m feeling very much at home and enjoying life as part of the community here,” she says. “Durham Cathedral is a spectacular landmark, well known throughout the world and close to the hearts of many across the region. As an Anglican Church, the Cathedral is a place of worship and prayer, a focus of pilgrimage, mission and spirituality for the North East of England. It is also a place of hospitality and welcome, where visitors come in droves, and where local people find a home.” The Canon Chancellor’s role is to be something of an outward face to the Cathedral, and she is looking forward to getting to know people across the region.

Moving to the North-East was something of a homecoming for her, as she was born in Sunderland and went to university in Durham. Following university, she trained for ordination in Cambridge where she also studied for an MA.

“Life at home is never dull, with two young children and a very large sociable hound,” she says. “We hope to add chickens into the mix in the near future. When time allows, I delight in cooking for friends, cycling, dabbling in stone carving and stained glass work, or hiking along a Northumbrian beach or costal path. We are relishing the opportunity to delight in all that the North-East has to offer.”

Favourite place to pick up Christmas gifts in the North-East?

A very good question – to which I’m not yet able to give an answer. I’m hugely looking forward to finding out though, and will have much fun exploring.

Favourite stop-off for coffee?

The dog’s favourite places for coffee in Durham are The River View Kitchen and Cafedral – she has good taste, and I agree with her judgement!

Favourite day out?

I’m spoilt for choice on this one. As a family, our current favourite is a trip to the village of Alnmouth, where we love to walk along the beach, collect buckets full of shells, and warm up over lunch in one of the many delightful eateries there. That said, we recently enjoyed paddleboarding at Cragside and surfing at Bamburgh…. so much choice!

Favourite North-East landmark?

I genuinely have to say Durham Cathedral! The Angel of the North comes in a close second – whenever I drive past it I feel as if I’m being welcomed home.

Your inspiration?

God. To have been given the gift of life is an amazing thing. Use it wisely and generously, and try to bless others in all you do.

The best thing about living in the North-East?

The people. Direct, warm and welcoming – it’s a great combination of virtues.

What is your Christmas message to the region?

Hope. The wonder of the Christ-child coming in to our midst is a reminder that light can shine in darkness, that peace can banish war, and that joy can be found even when all seems lost. There is always hope.

What are you hoping Santa will bring you this year?

Christmas dinner. Seriously! With all the exciting things going on at the Cathedral this year, I have no idea how I’ll find time to cook it!

CHRISTMAS AT THE CATHEDRAL

December 15 7.30pm-9pm: The Messiah. Durham Cathedral choir is joined by the Avison Ensemble, for the festive performance of Handel’s famous Oratorio. To book tickets visit https://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/whats-on or call 0191-3887178.

December 16 4.30pm: Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Blessing of the Crib. This service is particularly suitable for children.

December 22 7pm/December 24, 3pm. Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. A highlight of the Advent season. All welcome.

December 28 Various screenings at 1.30pm, 3.30pm and 7pm: Witness the magic of The Snowman film on big screen with live musical accompaniment. Tickets available online at https://www.carrotproductions.com/the-snowman/ or phone 0344-8000-410.