News

Kynren, the award-winning live outdoor show in Bishop Auckland, has started 2025 with a string of prestigious accolades – and an exciting national nomination for one of its key team members.

Kynren has been named Team of the Year at the National Association of Cultural Enterprises Awards, a major honour that recognises the passion, dedication, and hard work behind one of the UK’s most spectacular live experiences.

This award celebrates the strength of the Kynren team – made up of nearly 1,000 volunteer cast and crew members – and acknowledges the show’s powerful sense of community, its commitment to sustainability, and the consistently high-quality visitor experience it delivers.

Adding to the celebration, Kynren also just achieved double success at the North East England Tourism Awards last night, winning:

• Event/Festival of the Year – voted for by the public
• Volunteer Team of the Year

These regional awards shine a spotlight on the heart and soul of Kynren: its dedicated volunteers, known as the Archers, whose passion and pride help create unforgettable performances for audiences from across the UK and beyond. With 95% of volunteers returning for 2025, the show’s community spirit continues to thrive.

As if that wasn’t enough good news, Kynren’s very own Wendy Wilshere, Head of Volunteer Casting & Engagement, has been shortlisted for VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar 2025 – a national award that recognises individuals who go the extra mile to make holidays in England special.

“Wendy is a true champion of our community,” said Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren. “Her passion and dedication embody the spirit of the Archers, and we’re thrilled she’s getting the national recognition she deserves.”

Help Wendy Win!

Voting is now open and runs until midnight on 23rd March. Wendy needs your support – and your vote could make all the difference!

Click here to vote for Wendy!