The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council

Big plans, bright future

MARCH 2014

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

1,245

PAGE 3

CONTENTS

Stockton News is published by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and distributed to households across the Borough free of charge. If you have not received a copy please call (01642) 526098 or email snews@stockton.gov.uk

Stockton News aims to provide news and information about the Council, its partner organisations and local community groups and businesses. Every effort is made to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication. Your views and comments are welcome.

Stockton News is produced by Stockton Council’s Communications Team and designed by Twentyseven Design. Pictures courtesy of Dave Charnley, Peter Mernagh, Gary Walsh, Gilbert Johnston, Rebecca Hues, Doug Moody, Bosh Creative, Evening Gazette, Dave Jamieson and others. Front cover main picture: 1,245 Sunflowers commemoration

There is an audio version of Stockton News. Call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or email snews@stockton.gov.uk

CONTENTS33Turning the

Borough gold20Money saving street lighting

BIG NEWS FOR STOCKTON-ON-TEES

News Round Up 4BIG PLANS FOR AN OUTSTANDING BOROUGH

Economic Regeneration and Transport 6

BIG PLANS FOR YOUR AREA

Ward Surgeries in Your Area 40

BIG PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

What’s On 44

BIG PLANS FOR THE CARE WE PROVIDE

Adults Services 34

AMBITIOUS, EFFECTIVE AND PROUD TO SERVE

Your Council 13

BIG PLANS FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF OUR BOROUGH

Children and Young People 36

BIG PLANS FOR OUR PLACES AND OPEN SPACES

Environment and Housing 17

BIG PLANS FOR THE HEALTH OF OUR PEOPLE

Health and Wellbeing 22

BIG PLANS FOR GREAT EXPERIENCES

Arts, Culture and Leisure 24

BIG PLANS FOR KEEPING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE

Community Safety 27

BIG PLANS FOR HELPING OUR COMMUNITIES PROSPER

Strong Communities 30

The Duathlon Festival returns! One of the country’s premier Duathlons is back to challenge athletes of all levels in this exciting run-cycle-run race.

Distances:Novice: 2k run -10k cycle -1k runSprint: 5k run - 20k cycle -2.5k runStandard: 10k run - 40k cycle - 5k runThe Duathlon takes place on a closed road circuit with goodie bags for all entrants.The Duathlon will also act as a qualification event for the GB Age-Group Team for the 2014 Pontevedra ITU Duathlon World Championships (Standard) and the 2015 ETU Duathlon European Championships (Sprint).

Cost: Various pricing for each event, please visit the website for full details

Address: Riverside, Stockton, TS18 1SW

Booking: Booking is essential. To register visit the website – applications must be received by 19 April, 2014

Stockton Duathlon 2014

www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon

Sunday 27 AprilStockton Town Centre – Riverside

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council

Big plans, bright future

MARCH 2014

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

1,245

24Events galore!

NEWS ROUND UPNEWS ROUND UP

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WELCOME TO THIS SPRING EDITION OF STOCKTON NEWS.It’s that time of year again when we set our annual budget for delivering services to you. This year has been particularly challenging, as we face further reductions in funding for the Borough’s services. However, we remain absolutely committed to delivering the very best we can with our much reduced budget and you can read all about this on page 13. In this context it is particularly pleasing to be able to bring you more news of the investments we are making to reduce our costs. You can read about our latest “Invest to Save” scheme – an ambitious programme of street lighting investment – on pages 20 and 21.

I’m also delighted to report great progress on our many regeneration schemes across the Borough. Despite these challenging times, our work continues at pace across our town centres and across our many housing regeneration sites. We’re working hard with our partners, to keep this going and remain focussed on our ambitious plans for the Borough.

I’m also pleased to report the continued success of Tees Valley Unlimited. Our Local Enterprise Partnership continues to bring great value, new businesses and jobs to the Tees Valley and the recently signed “City Deal” – only the 17th in the country – marks another milestone in delivering our ambitions for the area.

And as always, I’m struck when I look through this edition of our Community magazine, by the many people that make our Borough such a great place to live and work. You can’t fail to be impressed by the many stories of remarkable people dancing in the streets, volunteering, winning awards, setting up their own businesses and helping others. We could fill these pages many times over with stories of local success, community spirit and involvement. I hope you’ll enjoy reading about at least some of the people who make this place what it is.

Finally, don’t forget to pull out and keep our spring/summer events guide, it’s full of great ways to spend your time in Stockton. 2014 promises to be another great year of events in the Borough – you won’t want to miss them!

Neil SchneiderChief Executive, Stockton Borough Council

New manager for Preston ParkThere’s a new manager at the helm of Stockton Borough’s flagship museum, Preston Park Museum and Grounds.Margie Stewart-Piercy (pictured) joins Preston Park’s team of committed staff and volunteers at a time of great success following the attraction’s two-year, £7million refurbishment.She brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge having previously worked as Regional Manager for the Museums, Libraries and Archive Council and Arts Council England.She said: “My predecessor Nick Smith and Stockton Council have developed Preston Park into a highly successful venue and my ambition, with the support of the team, is to build on this success with future development and an ever expanding events programme.”To find out what the park and its museum have to offer visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

More than £10million for flood defencesFollowing a successful application from the Council and the Environment Agency, the Government has made an allocation of more than £10million to pay for flood defences at Port Clarence and Lustrum Beck.

Stockton Council and the Environment Agency submitted the bids for Flood Defence Grant in Aid funding to enable flood defence and alleviation work to be undertaken.

The confirmed £9million will fund a flood defence scheme at Port Clarence and Greatham which suffered the worse tidal surge in more than 150 years in December.

Meanwhile, £1.2million has also been allocated for a flood defence scheme at Lustrum Beck where properties were among the worst affected during the Autumn 2012 floods.

This funding combined with the £415,000 already secured from the North-East levy means there will be £1.6million available

to help protect properties at Lustrum Beck from flooding.

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “There is a vital need to improve flood defences for Port Clarence and Lustrum Beck so this is excellent news and a welcome relief for many residents.”

The Stockton Council and Environment Agency websites have a range of flooding advice and information.

To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/flooding or www.environment-agency.gov.uk where residents can also sign-up to a free flood alert service.

Flooding of Lustrum Beck

in September 2012.

Tees Valley Unlimited (TVU) has wasted no time in driving forward a number of programmes under the area’s City Deal, which was only announced in December.The Tees Valley City Deal was announced by Prime Minister David Cameron during his visit to the Tetley Tea factory in Eaglescliffe.It will see the Tees Valley and the Government work together to attract more investment to the area, build better transport links, train the local workforce and create new jobs.TVU is already working with public and private sector partners to secure funding for a new Tees Valley Skills and Apprenticeships Programme (you can read more on page 12) .A Tees Valley Business Growth Hub is bringing together a number of different support programmes that will help companies who are looking to expand.

The Growth Hub team will offer one to one advice to ensure local companies are best placed and sufficiently supported to become more successful. The City Deal also earmarked funding to carry out a feasibility study to support Tees Valley’s ambition to establish an industrial carbon capture and storage project.These are just some of the examples of work delivered through the Tees Valley City Deal that will help promote the Tees Valley’s attractiveness in a globally competitive market, supporting companies already here and bringing in further international investment and job opportunities.For more information visit www.teesvalleyunlimited.gov.uk

Stockton Council’s Hardwick ward has been renamed Hardwick and Salters Lane ward.

The decision was taken by Stockton Borough councillors at a special Council meeting following a consultation with residents living in the ward.

Of the 456 people who responded to the consultation, 294 were in agreement with changing the ward name, 151 people were against the change and 11 respondents had no view.

The change took effect on 17 February 2014 when the Council published its revised Register of Electors.

New name for Stockton ward

A great Deal happening

Major landlord mergerFour of Stockton’s biggest landlords will join an exciting new partnership next month.

Tristar Homes, Erimus Housing and Tees Valley Housing will join Housing Hartlepool to become part of the newly-formed Thirteen Group from 1 April.

The landlords’ current parent companies, Vela and Fabrick, will merge to become Thirteen, which will offer strategic direction to the four landlords and to the fifth partner in the Group – Thirteen Care and Support.

Customers will retain their existing landlords but the partnership means the quality and range of services provided can be improved and enhanced.

Other benefits include:

Investing more in improving and maintaining homes and neighbourhoods

Providing additional specialist services, such as supported housing for vulnerable people

Building more much-needed affordable homes

The Thirteen Group will be one of the North East’s ten biggest employers and the region’s biggest registered housing provider.

Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive, said: “We understand the economic challenges we face as a business and those faced by our customers. We are creating a more sustainable organisation so that we can harness additional capacity to better serve our customers and communities by enhancing services and adding value.”

For more information about the merger call 0300 111 1000 or visit www.tristarhomes.co.uk

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

BUSINESS AS USUAL!Anyone who visits Stockton Town Centre will not fail to see the scale of the works now under way, however that doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty to see and do.

Stockton Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford, said: “Stockton is very much open for business and the multitude of independent shops means you can buy items here that you can’t get at other town centres or retail parks. I really would urge people to be patient with the works and to take the time to rediscover Stockton as it really is offering something quite different.”

The extent of the works does mean people have to change their normal walking route around the town centre however access to shops is maintained at all times and noise and disruption is kept to a minimum, wherever possible.

A special map which shows the pedestrian routes has also been produced for visitors who can pick a copy up from the Rediscover Stockton Shop. From gourmet food to specialist clothing boutiques, handmade wooden toys to charming cafés, 2014 really is the time to rediscover Stockton.

Among the latest businesses to establish themselves in Stockton Town Centre is Earls of Ashwood Ltd, an independent cheesemonger and delicatessen retail outlet in the Castlegate Centre’s Spencer Market Hall. Their produce ranges from speciality cheeses, olives and charcuterie to antipasti, artisan confectionery, hand pulled pork pies and much more.

Carole Earl said: “We came to trade in Stockton for two purposes. To bring local residents the opportunity to purchase fine foods and gourmet cuisine. Having lived, studied and worked in Stockton in the past, we are also keen to advocate the Town’s renaissance and fully support the exciting plans for the growth of the independent trader and the rebirth of Stockton’s famous High Street.”

More than 50 businesses have chosen to expand, relocate or establish themselves in Stockton Town Centre in the last year – to find out more about them see pages 8 and 9.

PROGRESS ON THE GROUND The works have now moved into the northern end of the high street with fencing in place in various areas from the Town Hall to the Globe Theatre to allow the transformation to safely progress.

Before the end of the summer the area in front of the Rediscover Stockton Shop will have a major make over. New paving and street furniture along with plants and trees will be installed to create a dedicated specialist markets and events area. The pedestrian crossing will be upgraded and road resurfaced.

This phase will also see the foundations for the Automaton art feature installed. Inspired by George Stephenson’s Locomotion Number One, the automaton will emerge from a plinth to promote Stockton’s heritage and rich industrial past at a set time each day.

Meanwhile between now and the end of the year work in the central part of the High Street will bring a focal point to the High Street, incorporating seating, grass, feature lighting and a stylish water feature. It will also double up as an event space to provide the perfect place to sit, relax and enjoy Stockton’s packed programme of events.

IMPROVED ACCESS TO THE HEART OF THE HIGH STREETParking on the High Street and a new signal controlled junction are making it easier for people to visit the town’s shops and businesses.

34 short stay bays have been created outside The Shambles so people can park on the High Street. Work is also under way to create more short stay parking on the former Lindsay House site.

The completion of a £6 million project to improve bus access and journey times is also helping visitors to come into the town centre.

The scheme has seen a complete overhaul of the junction including the removal of the roundabout at the junction of Stockton’s Riverside and Bridge Road and the installation of two new linked signal-controlled junctions in its place.

It represents the single biggest infrastructure investment in the £57million Tees Valley Bus Network Improvement (TVBNI) project and will complement the regeneration of Stockton Town Centre.

The improved junction is called St John’s Crossing, after the point nearby where the Stockton and Darlington Railway once crossed Bridge Road and where the first rail was laid in 1822.

Richard McGuckin, Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, said: “The introduction of the St John’s Crossing junction is already having a significant, positive impact on Stockton Town Centre’s businesses and shops as well as reducing bus journey times and improving road safety.

“The new junction is complementing the on-going regeneration of Stockton Town Centre by making it easier for people to access the town’s growing shopping and cultural opportunities.

“Easy access to the town centre by public transport is vital to Stockton’s future prosperity so I’m pleased to hear informal feedback from bus operators has been very encouraging.”

The £57million Tees Valley Bus Network Improvement (TVBNI) project includes £38million contribution from the Department for Transport.

An artist’s impression from the central and northern part of the High Street.

St John’s Crossing

Shambles car park

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Stockton Town Centre is very much and there is plenty of choice for shoppers.

ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

Here are just some of the 50 new businesses to arrive in Stockton Town Centre in the last year:1 Wags and Whiskers 2 Wild Willow Florist 3 Stockton Beds 4 Beanie Girl 5 Andreas Boutique 6 Old Autumn House 7 Jokers 8 Player’s lounge 9 Made by Marianne 10 Bennett’s Fish and Chips 11 Liberty Fashion 12 Furniture Express 13 Blooms Florist 14 Blue Corn Bakery 15 Jack and Jill’s Toys 16 Alfordes Bikes 17 Bootylicious Bootcamps 18 Mini Munchkins 19 Andrea’s Pantry 20 Music Lounge 21 The Stottie Co 22 Earls of Ashwood 23 Faking It 24 Sporting Pro 25 Remember Me Tea Rooms 26 Neil Sinclair News 27 Nanny Ma’s/Tippie Toes 28 Wonka’s Delights 29 Poppy Rose 30 Roman 31 The Dress Boudoir 32 Latte Da 33 Tom’s Shoe Repairs 34 Look Good Feel Good 35 James Cameron 36 New York Candy Company 37 Catch of the Day 38 Katie’s Kards 39 The Italian Job 40 Officer’s Club 41 Precious Little Pumpkins

COME AND SEEFOR YOURSELF!

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25 YEARS FOR MARKET TRADERStockton’s 700 year old traditional market continues to be held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. It is now settled in its new permanent location at the southern end of the High Street. This spring each stall will be covered with a specially designed hard wearing canopy to complete its new look. Liz Hutchinson’s (pictured) love of Stockton’s busy market, its traders and customers, has kept her stall running for 25 years. In all weathers, you can find Liz running EM Hutchinson, a stall selling vacuum parts, domestic appliances, batteries and other household goods.Liz said: “This is one of the most thriving markets in the region. A lot of markets have gone quite small and there aren’t as many stallholders left on them.“But that’s not a problem with Stockton. In fact with the redevelopment of the High Street I can only see it getting better.

MARKETS WITH A DIFFERENCEThroughout 2014 the town is hosting its busiest ever specialist markets programme. Markets coming soon include:

Easter Schools MarketWednesday 26 March, 10am-2pmStockton High Street

Farmers’ Market Saturday 29 March and Saturday 26 April, 9am-2pm Wellington Square

Stockton Riverside College Student Market ChallengeWednesday 2 April, 11am-3pmStockton High Street

Chic VintiqueSaturday 12 April, 10am-4pmStockton Parish Gardens

Oriental evening marketThursday 8 May, 6pm-9pmSilver Street, Stockton

For full details of the specialist markets programme visit www.stockton.gov.uk/specialistmarkets

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

In Thornaby a McDonald’s drive- through and new Asda petrol station have been developed on the previously derelict site.

The £2.5 million scheme has created more than 70 full and part-time jobs.

Meanwhile in Thornaby Town Centre, InShops has re-opened. In January the national chain went into liquidation but the Town Centre management company La Salle has now taken on a temporary lease of the units in Thornaby so trading can continue.

More investment in town centres

The face of Billingham is continuing to change as the construction of the town’s new £2.7million Library and Customer Service Centre gets under way.It’s a real home-grown affair as Stockton-based Interserve Construction won the contract to build the state-of-the-art facility.

It will bring together the town’s main public library, customer services for Stockton Council and Tristar Homes, a cash office and Billingham Town Council’s headquarters all under one roof.

The new centre will benefit from the latest self-service technology, supported by professional librarians and highly-skilled customer service staff.

It is being built on the site of the town’s former Art Gallery and Council offices and

is expected to open during this winter. The two existing library buildings – Bedale Avenue and the Roseberry library on the Causeway – will only close once the new one is open.

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “We know how much our residents value library services and this new facility will help to promote library use even more while offering people all the services they need under one roof.

“The existing customer service centres in Stockton and Thornaby central libraries are hugely popular and serve around 9,000 visitors each month. Bringing more people into Billingham Town Centre will be a major boost for local traders.”

One of those looking to benefit is Gary Roberts of Roberts’ Family Butchers, who said: “This new facility is great news for the town centre as people who visit the library or customer service centre are likely to combine their visit with a trip to

the shops. It will help boost our trade and encourage more people to come and see what Billingham has to offer.”

And it’s not just the Library and Customer Service Centre which is progressing – the £2.3million works to upgrade Billingham Town Centre’s paving, seating, lighting and bandstand were completed at the end of last year.

This phase of work complements the new public toilets, CCTV, new windows and stairways delivered in early 2013 as part of the wider redevelopment of the town centre.

The investment has been carried out by the Council in partnership with the town centre’s owners Mayforth.

Meanwhile, work is under way on a new JD Wetherspoons pub in the West Precinct and planning applications are being considered for a number of other developments including retirement flats on the Billingham Community Centre car park site and the transformation of the Billingham Arms Hotel into flats.

For further information about investment in Billingham Town Centre, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/billingham

New-look Billingham is taking shape

Works complete in Billingham Town Centre

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services,

Richard McGuckin and Interserve Project Manager Eddie Wooton on the site of the new

Library and Customer Service Centre

After

Two new long-stay car parks, heritage-style street lighting and improved access to the Town Hall and war memorial form part of a Stockton Council investment of more than £500,000 in Yarm.Following successful negotiations with landowners, the Council is planning two new long-stay car parks, each with around 40 spaces.

The car parks, at Silver Street, behind Barclays Bank, and behind the Blue Blue Bell pub next to Yarm Bridge are being progressed after many months of negotiations.

They will complement the short-stay pay and display and residents’ parking arrangements that are due to be introduced on Yarm High Street after Easter.

New heritage-style street lighting columns will be installed along the High Street at the same time as the short-stay pay and display meters, with work due to start in March and expected to last around six weeks.

Work to improve the paving and lighting around Yarm’s Town Hall and war memorial are also set to get under way in April and are scheduled for completion in July.

The Council’s Head of Technical Services Richard McGuckin, said: “We have worked alongside Yarm Town Council, the Chamber of Trade and the Showmen’s Guild to plan these works very carefully.

“As a result, we have been able to make arrangements to ensure minimal disruption to Yarm Gala and programme the work so they will be complete before the town’s First World War centenary commemorations in August.

“We will be cleaning the town’s war memorial in time for those commemorations and installing new lighting to illuminate the Town Hall in spectacular style at night. The new paving there will improve disabled access and also benefit people with prams and pushchairs.

“We’re putting in better CCTV in the High Street area which, combined with the superior lighting, will improve community safety. We’re also upgrading the High Street’s Pelican crossings to Puffin crossings equipped with sensors to give people the time they need to cross.

“There will inevitably be some disruption whilst the work takes place but we will be doing everything we can to keep it to a minimum.

More information about the works are on display in Yarm Library.

Investing in Yarm

Norton High Street is also seeing a flurry of new developments.

The end of January saw independent ladies’ boutique, Call Me Pretty, open at The Mews next to the Co-op. The new boutique specialises in High Street fashion and affordable clothes including brands like Vila, Fransa and Vero Meroda.

Jane Longhorn, who owns the boutique along with her husband, said: “We chose Norton as we felt it was an excellent location. There are some fantastic businesses here already like Cafe Lilli, Cafe Maison, 12 Harland Place and Mooi Hairdressers. The High Street has a great

footfall and we believe there is nowhere like this north of the river.”

Other recent developments include the refurbishment of Blackwell’s Butchers which, alongside selling traditional meats, pies, pastries and hampers, offers a deli, corporate catering and the opportunity for people to hire the shop for the evening so they can have a meal cooked for them.

Meanwhile, JD Wetherspoon has bought and refurbished the Highland Lad which has now re-opened as the Highland Laddie.

Next month, work will start on re-laying paving stones on the High Street between Leven Road and Harland Place.

Artist’s impression of the main library area

Before

Picture courtesy of Dave Jamieson

Call Me Pretty boutique

The Highland Laddie

Proposed car park site behind Barclays Bank

Yarm High Street

Artist’s impression of the children’s area

YOUR COUNCIL

PAGE 13

ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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PAGE 12

Tees Valley Unlimited (TVU), the Local Enterprise Partnership for Stockton, Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland, is working with public and private sector partners to secure funding for a new Tees Valley skills and apprenticeships programme.

The programme will allow Tees Valley employers to apply for a 12 month wage subsidy of 50 per cent (up to £11,000) towards the employment costs of a new trainee, apprentice or graduate.

This will support local companies looking to recruit more staff enabling them to grow and take on new business, while helping train the local workforce and offering young people a more prosperous future.

To qualify for the funding, companies must be based in the Tees Valley and be creating a new job or a number of jobs before June 2014 which will last at least two years. They must be able to demonstrate that the new roles have a training element.

The Tees Valley skills portal on TVU’s website provides lots of information for both interested companies and apprentices. For more information visit www.teesvalleyunlimited.gov.uk or telephone (01642) 524400.

Councillors met on 26 February to agree the Council budget for 2014/15 and reluctantly agreed a 1.9 per cent increase in Council Tax for the coming year.In setting the budget and financial plan for the next four years, the Council had to meet the combined challenge of:

more reductions in government funding increased demand for Council services delivering the savings already identified over the past four years

In line with the well-established approach at Stockton, the plans set out a realistic and robust approach not just for the coming year but for the longer term.

Funding cuts Government funding to Stockton has reduced every year since 2010/11, when the Council received £120million. By the end of this planning period in 2018 we estimate that the annual funding from the Government will have fallen to £53million per year. That’s a reduction of 56 per cent in cash terms or 74 per cent when inflation is taken into account.

Rising demands At the same time demand continues to rise for a number of vital services. We have made a serious and sustained commitment to protecting the vulnerable in the Borough and have seen increasing demand for services to support vulnerable children. At the same time we continue to support adults in need of social care and also continue to face a tough challenge on rising energy and waste disposal costs. An increasing proportion of our total budget is spent on these services and these areas alone account for over 40 per cent of our expenditure each year. We are also seeing an increase in numbers of people requiring our services following changes to the welfare system.The budget also includes extra investment in infrastructure across the Borough. The projected impact of housing developments, particularly in the south of the Borough and changes in the rules governing financial contributions from housing

developers places additional demands on our budgets. Residents have also identified additional work on roads and pavements as a significant concern so we have allocated funds to look at further improvements.

Savings We are doing all we can to face these challenges by delivering services as efficiently as possible. Since 2010/11 we have already identified £39million in annual savings.We now have 720 fewer full time equivalent employees than four years ago and expect that this number will rise by a further 150 over the next couple of years. Salaries for all employees have been frozen for three years and in the case of senior managers, for five years. The allowance paid to councillors have been frozen again for the coming year in line with the pledge to deliver a 15 per cent reduction in allowances agreed last year. However, despite all of this, by the end of this financial plan in 2018 there is still a need to find an additional £16.8million in annual savings.So, as well as continuing to target further savings, we also continue to make the most of our “invest to save” programme which identifies areas where we can invest capital to save on-going annual costs. The £14million investment in new street lighting (see page 20 and 21) will, by the time it is complete, save us £1.8million each year in electricity and maintenance costs. This major programme follows our recent investments in renewable energy technology and new efficient recycling vehicles. Our £2.3million investment in the Spark of Genius Joint Venture to care for and educate some of our Looked After Children will save us £400,000 each year. And we are proposing a £340,000 investment in a feasibility study to potentially convert waste energy into a heat source for use or sale. We will always look for new investments or new ways of delivering services as a preferred option to cutting services.

Big Plans Despite these challenges we continue to forge ahead with the wide range of exciting regeneration schemes across the Borough. The regeneration of our town centres, our support to businesses to create jobs and to housing regeneration developments continue to bring life and prosperity to the Borough.Award winning Nifco Toolmaking Apprentice Joshua Appleyard.

(Picture courtesy of The Evening Gazette)

Tees Valley skills and apprenticeships programme

RED

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£120m

£96m

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£88m

£80m

£68m

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£53m

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2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

No easy answers

YOUR COUNCILYOUR COUNCIL

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Last April the Government implemented the biggest change to the welfare system in decades. Stockton Council and its partners in the voluntary and community sector are working together to protect the most vulnerable and to offer advice and support to those affected.If you are struggling to cope financially or are starting to get into debt it is best to get help quickly. There are organisations across the Borough that can help and they offer free, impartial advice.

Here, we look at two examples of how we’ve supported residents to cope with the impact of the welfare changes.

Alan“When the Government changes came in I wasn’t sure how it was going to affect my family,” says Alan. The 44-year-old ex-serviceman was self-employed but in May last year, found that he could no longer work due to ill health.

“When I couldn’t work I became very depressed,” he says. As a single parent with six children living at home, four of whom are under 16, Alan started to have difficulties paying his Council Tax.

Because he has more than four bedrooms Alan lost some Housing Benefit, which resulted in a shortfall in his rent. Alan was referred to the Council’s Welfare Rights Service for support.

“I did some form filling to see if the Council could help me,” says Alan. “Someone visited me to help clarify some points on the form.”

Welfare Rights officers worked with colleagues in the Council’s Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support teams to give Alan a full benefits check and

identified that he was entitled to Income Support and other discretionary payments.

The resulting extra income of £196 per week means Alan can remain in his

home and pay his Council Tax.

“Welfare Rights were brilliant,” says Alan. “They took a lot of stress and worries away and helped me quickly. I’m hoping to get back to work in the near future.”

Craig“I didn’t really have time to think how I would be affected by all the changes,” says 46-year-old Craig. “The changes felt almost instant and my benefits were stopped.”

Craig lives alone in a two-bedroom flat and was in full-time employment until recently, when he was diagnosed with severe arthritis. When an assessment declared that he was fit to work, Craig lost his entitlement to Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support. He was also affected by the spare room subsidy.

Craig believed the outcome of the assessment was wrong and was referred to the Council’s Welfare Rights Service for support by his local councillor. At the time he was threatened with a bailiff action.

Officers from the service gave Craig a full benefits check and successfully appealed the finding that he was fit to work. They then had Craig’s Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support reinstated.

“Welfare Rights liased with the bailiffs to explain my situation and they have helped me so much,” he says. “They were brilliant. It was like a big weight lifted off my shoulders when the outcome of an appeal was in my favour.”

Working with colleagues in the Council’s Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support sections, Welfare Rights officers also helped him to successfully apply for other discretionary payments.

The resulting extra income of £113 per week means Craig can remain in his home and pay his Council Tax.

Officers are working alongside Housing Options to try and identify a one-bedroom property for Craig to move to.

“When you’re in a situation like that you can’t see any way out,” says Craig. “It was great to even just talk to someone. Welfare Rights are doing an outstanding job. They helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can’t praise them enough.”

Lending a helping hand

HELP AND ADVICE IS AVAILABLE FROM: The Council’s website at www.stockton.gov.uk/benefitchanges or telephone Stockton Council’s Welfare Rights Service (01642) 526141Stockton Council’s Housing Options Service, 16 Church Road, Stockton, open Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm (01642) 528389

OTHER EXTERNAL AGENCIES: Stockton District Advice and Information Service 0844 4111 444/0300 3300 650 For appointments telephone: (01642) 633877

Five Lamps (01642) 608316 www.fivelamps.org.uk

The Money Advice Service: 0300 500 5000 www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

StepChange Debt Charity (formerly Consumer Credit Counselling Service) 0800 138 1111 www.stepchange.org

National debtline 0808 8084000 www.nationaldebtline.co.uk

The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Kathryn Nelson, is leading the way in encouraging local people to sign-up to the Borough’s Credit Union – and around 60 Council staff have already followed suit.Credit unions are not-for-profit organisations that not only help those struggling to qualify for borrowing but benefit the community in the way they operate – and the more people that join, the more people benefit.

They offer a safe alternative to illegal money lenders, who are known to take advantage of those in need of cash by demanding extortionate interest rates and plunging borrowers deeper into debt.

Stockton’s community bank, Tees Credit Union (TCU), is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and offers a range of attractive products and services to its members including safe savings and low-interest loans.

After establishing a regular savings pattern over a period of 13 weeks, members can obtain a loan whether it is for a wedding, holiday, home improvements or to pay off credit card bills.

TCU also offers a reloadable prepaid card and e-account, which works in a similar way to a high street bank account. The card gives you the freedom of a debit card and works just the same, with a secure PIN number but without the hassle of credit checks.

Other benefits offered by TCU include a free death benefit scheme whereby a nominated beneficiary can receive your shares, half of your savings and any outstanding loan may be paid off – an invaluable service when your next of kin may need it most.

The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Kathryn Nelson, said: “Tees Credit Union offers a friendly and local financial service that is fair and accessible to everyone living or working in the Borough.

“There are around 500 Credit Unions in the UK based on the principle of members helping members. I am keen to support our local Credit Union, which is growing, and offering a whole range of products to members. I would encourage everyone to consider joining.”

There are lots of collection points across the Borough, including schools and community centres in Billingham, Norton, Stockton and Thornaby.

For further details of TCU’s services, call into South Thornaby Community Centre in Havilland Road, call (01642) 753517 or email info@teescreditunion.co.uk

Details can also be found on TCU’s website, visit www.teescreditunion.co.uk

Fathomingyour finances

The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Kathryn Nelson with Dianne Patterson from Tees Credit Union.

ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

PAGE 17

YOUR COUNCIL

PAGE 16

At the end of last year Stockton Borough residents, small businesses and community groups were invited to join the Big Community Switch.The scheme sees people join together to form a single, powerful buying unit to negotiate cheaper energy costs through an auction in which energy companies are invited to offer their best deal.

After the auction took place, those who signed up were set to save an average of £165 per year on their gas and electricity bills (based on a dual fuel monthly direct debit tariff).

This is the second time Stockton Council has worked with the collective switching organiser iChoosr to run a big community switch auction.

Norton resident, Maggie Horner, (pictured) said: “I was really surprised at how easy it was to switch. I tried to do it myself a while ago because I was dissatisfied with my old supplier but it

seemed to be a bit of hassle. All I had to do this time was answer a few easy questions and it all went through – no problem. I’m looking forward to seeing the reduction in my energy bills.”

Over the two auctions, 2,249 people in Stockton registered and 230 of these went on to switch, making an average saving of £118.

One resident, on an electricity-only tariff, switched to make a saving of £524 a year!

Stockton Council will be supporting another Big Community Switch in the autumn. iChoosr runs auctions throughout the year.

Richard McGuckin, Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, said: “The Big Community Switch is one way in

which we can help those struggling to heat their homes and prevent people from suffering from fuel poverty in future.

“The more people that sign up, the bigger the buying unit to attract lower prices from competing suppliers so if you haven’t done so already it really is worth finding out more about how you, your friends and your family can get involved and benefit.”

For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/bigcommunityswitch

Flick that switch!

Green waste collections start again in April and continue through until October.

Red Week collections start week commencing Monday 21 April and end week commencing Monday 13 October. Blue Week collections start week commencing Monday 28 April and will end week commencing Monday 20 October.

You can also purchase additional green waste bags from the Council’s Customer Service Centres – reusable bags are available at £2 per bag and a roll of 26 disposable sacks is available at £3 per roll.

Alternatively have you considered composting your own garden and green waste? This will give you free compost and reduce the amount of rubbish you put into your bin. For more information

visit www.teesvalley.getcomposting.com or call (01642) 391959

Please note there are some changes to the items you can place in your Blue Box and White Bag.

White bags can now also be used for metal items such as foil and aerosols as well as clean plastic bottles such as milk, pop, cooking oil, washing and laundry liquid, shampoo, toiletry and baby care bottles and containers such as yoghurt pots, margarine and butter tubs.

Please note we cannot now accept plastic carrier bags or crisp packets for recycling.

Blue boxes should contain glass, bottles and jars and batteries (in a clear bag).

Blue bags should contain newspapers, magazines, telephone directories, catalogues and envelopes.

Don’t forget to have your wheeled bins and recycling out before 7am on the morning of collection!

You should have received a booklet containing all of these details but to find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling or email careforyourarea@stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 391959.

Did you know?If you need bulky waste removing from your property you

can place your order online just visit www.stockton.gov.

uk/bulkywasteform and follow the simple instructions. A

payment is then taken online and once a collection date is

arranged you will be sent a text or email confirmation.

Up your street in 2014

If you want to vote in the European Parliamentary election on Thursday, May 22 to decide who will represent you in the European Parliament for the next five years, you must ensure you are on the Council’s Electoral Register.If you have recently moved to the area or moved home you will need to register at your new address. The necessary registration, postal and proxy vote application forms can be downloaded online from www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or www.stockton.gov.uk/registertovoteThey must be returned by the following deadlines:- Register to vote forms by 5pm on Tuesday, May 6- Register to vote by postal vote or postal proxy vote forms

by 5pm on Wednesday, May 7- Register to vote by proxy forms by 5pm on Wednesday, May 14

The results of the final count from the election will be announced on Sunday, May 25.You can find the results by visiting www.stockton.gov.uk/electionresults

Don’t miss out on your chance to vote Look out for your green waste collection team: Left to right Christopher Connor, Adam Wesson and Kev Sturman

Here is our regular update on the consultations being carried out by the Council. Having a say on school nurses More than 700 parents, carers and young people took part in a 12-week consultation on the School Nursing Service to help shape its future. The survey revealed children and young people would like the service to be more flexible and for nurses to be in school more frequently to work with them on a range of health issues. Over coming months the Council, the School Nursing Service, and other partners will use the results of the survey and national guidance from the Department of Health to design the new service.For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/schoolnursereview or call Gemma Mann, Health Improvement Specialist on (01642) 524293.

Gypsy and traveller sites consultationA six-week public consultation to seek views on a shortlist of six plots of land potentially suitable for gypsy and traveller families in Stockton Borough ended on 17 March 2014.

The Government requires all local authorities to identify sites with sufficient space to meet the needs of the gypsy and traveller community. In Stockton, the Council is required to identify potentially suitable sites for 26 additional pitches. The Council is now considering all of the responses, which will form part of a further assessment of the sites. This will inform a draft Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Site Allocations Local Development Document which will be released for public consultation this summer.To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/gypsytravellerconsultation

Community transportA special piece of consultation work has been carried out to help the Council identify ways in which it can work with partners to provide suitable transport arrangements once the £300,000 subsidy the Council provides to Compass Royston, Leven Valley, Arriva, Stagecarriage and Stagecoach for some rural, weekend and non-commercial routes ceases at the end of this month. As Stockton News went to print representatives from the Council as well as voluntary, community and social enterprise

groups and Town and Parish Councils have been meeting to review the results of the consultation, which ended in January, and are starting to develop specific transport solutions for the affected areas. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/consultations or telephone Jonathan Kibble, Stockton Council’s Sustainable Travel Officer on (01642) 526735.

Yarm Parking New short-stay pay and display parking arrangements are due to be introduced on Yarm High Street after Easter, after representations were sought on the recommendations of the Council’s Appeals and Complaints Committee the new arrangements have been agreed.Visitor parking in the High Street will be managed through a pay and display system operating from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. The first 60 minutes’ parking will be free, with a £1 charge for the next two hours and £1 for additional hours with no maximum stay.Parking will be free after 5pm and on Sundays and drivers will be able to leave their vehicles in Yarm overnight, free of charge, until the next pay and display charging period begins.

Maggie Horner has switched and saved

ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSINGENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

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Mandale Park is not the only area that is seeing the redevelopment of brownfield land. In the last three years around 75 per cent of all new homes in the Borough have been built on brownfield sites – that’s 1,490 properties.The Council would like to see even more houses constructed on brownfield sites. However, these sites are often expensive for developers to bring up to a suitable standard for development.

National planning policy says that local authorities must be able to provide evidence that they have a five-year supply of deliverable housing sites to accommodate their population. Stockton Borough is unable to demonstrate this at the moment.

As a result, the Council is left with difficult decisions when developers apply for permission to build on greenfield sites – sites that have previously been undeveloped.

However, that doesn’t mean brownfield development has stopped altogether. At the moment several brownfield areas within urban settings are being developed including:

760 proposed new homes at Meadow Rise at Hardwick. 620 of these have already been built.

105 new homes planned for Nursery Gardens in Central Stockton. 97 of these have already been built.

117 new homes are planned for West End Gardens (the area in Central Stockton bounded by Dovecot Street, Hartington Road, St Bernard’s Road and Worthing Street). Planning permission has been granted to redevelop the area so a number of new houses, bungalows and apartments can be built

170 new homes at Swainby Road, near Stockton Town Centre.

Around 210 new homes are also planned for the Victoria Estate, in Stockton Town Centre.

For more information about the housing schemes on-going across the Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/housingregeneration or contact the Housing Regeneration Team on (01642) 524970 or (01642) 526078 or email housingregeneration@stockton.gov.uk

It’s been a decade of change at Mandale Park.All but around 20 of the estate’s original 578 properties have been demolished, and over 770 new homes have been built in their place.And it’s almost ten years to the day since residents moved into the first of those new homes back in April 2004.The £100million scheme to regenerate the estate is being led by Stockton Council in partnership with Tristar Homes, Barratt Homes, Keepmoat and Isos Housing and has received financial support from the Homes and Communities Agency.Of the new homes built so far, 220 are affordable homes for rent or shared ownership.

This offer of a range of housing options has allowed many long-standing residents to return to the estate, while attracting new residents of all ages and incomes.But the work doesn’t stop there – another 90 new homes are scheduled to be built, including an additional 26 affordable homes.Complementing the residential areas is the £1million Allison Trainer Park, which was renamed in tribute to the former Mandale and Victoria ward councillor who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2010. The park features football pitches, cycle ways and hundreds of new trees for the whole community to enjoy.Julie Nixon, Stockton Council’s Head of Housing, said: “Here in Stockton we are committed to providing residents with good quality, affordable housing and I am delighted with the changes which have transformed Mandale Park over the past ten years.“The regeneration has benefited not only existing residents but those who have moved into the area as a result of the

Building on Brownfield

redevelopment. Already we have been able to deliver hundreds of new build homes and a modernised park.“I look forward to the completion of the estate – it is creating an area everybody can be proud of and will benefit current and future generations for many years to come.”The project continues to offer a range of training and employment opportunities for local people – around 95 per cent of people Barratt and Keepmoat are employing to carry out the construction work are from the local area.The work on the estate is due to be completed in 2016. In the meantime, plans are now under way to commemorate the ten year anniversary of the first residents moving into their new homes.This will be a real community event for people of all ages so residents of Mandale – look out for your invitation!For more information on housing regeneration schemes across the Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/housingregeneration

Mandale Park –10 years on

ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSINGENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

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Super-efficient street lighting is on its way to Stockton!The Council has agreed a three-year programme to replace almost 28,000 lantern bulbs with modern LED lighting units.

All street lighting columns over 25-years-old – around 8,500 in total – will also be replaced.

The scheme will see the Council invest around £14million but on completion it will generate projected savings of £1.8million per year.

The savings will come from the lower energy bills and reduced maintenance costs associated with the more efficient and reliable LED lighting.

The money saved can then be invested in other services.

Richard McGuckin, Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, said: “During 2012/13, the energy costs associated with street lighting represented 65 per cent of the Council’s overall

energy bill so the introduction of the LEDs will really help us dramatically reduce this on-going, long-term expenditure.

“The new LED lights have a longer lifespan so they don’t need to be replaced as often, which makes them far more environment-friendly. When they do expire, they are fully recyclable and contain no toxic materials.

“They also generate a better quality of light while using a great deal less energy than the current lantern bulbs. We know that better lighting makes people feel safer so this programme can benefit all of our communities.”

Look out for details of when the street lighting programme is coming to your area in forthcoming editions of Stockton News.

The current street lighting How streets will look when lit by the new LED lighting

A bright idea

What work will you need

to carry out?The work we carry out in your area

will depend on the lighting columns you

currently have. In most areas all we will

need to do is remove the existing lantern

and replace it with a new LED lantern,

which only takes around 20 minutes per

replacement. In other areas we may also

need to install additional street lighting

columns, or replace the

columns altogether.

How will this work affect me?

Throughout the works we will do

everything we can to keep any disruption

to a minimum. If we are only replacing the

lanterns on your street, this should only

take around 20 minutes per street light.

If we need to repair, replace or install a

street lighting column the work will take

longer as this will involve disconnecting

and re-connecting the electricity supply.

The work we carry out will not affect the

electricity supply into your home.

Will I notice any difference?

Yes. It might take a little time for you to

get used to your new LED lighting. You

should notice a white light source which

allows colours to be more easily identified

during the night time. You may also notice

that the light is focused downwards rather

than spilling into surrounding gardens,

driveways or fronts of properties. This

makes sure the footpaths and roads are

lit to the correct standard.

What makes the LED street

lights more reliable?

The existing, old-fashioned lamps are lit

by a single bulb – if this fails the light goes

out altogether and needs to be replaced.

The new LED light source units are made

up of multiple light source elements. If

one element fails the rest will continue to

function. This makes it extremely unlikely

that the units will suffer a total light

outage, which dramatically reduces costs

associated with routine maintenance.

How can I report a broken

streetlight?To report a faulty or broken streetlight,

complete the online form available at

www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline

or during normal office hours, call

(01642) 526769. If the faulty streetlight is

due for imminent replacement as part of

the programme and does not pose a risk

to public safety, the repair may be put

on hold.

Your street lighting questions answered

HEALTH AND WELLBEINGHEALTH AND WELLBEING

PAGE 23PAGE 22

More than 400 people from across Stockton have so far been helped to make positive lifestyle changes, access health services and stay out of hospital thanks to three innovative pilot projects designed and delivered by local voluntary organisations.The projects have been supported with funding from Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which made £400,000 available to Synergy VCS Consortium to design innovative solutions to local health problems.

Synergy is a partnership of local voluntary organisations and the three projects involve 11 organisations that are now delivering in-depth support to people across the Borough. Here, we find out more about each of the projects and how they are helping local people.

Improving Futures Improving Futures offers support to families, single parents, young care leavers and young carers. Project workers encourage people to make healthy lifestyle choices, be more physically active, and register with health services.

Hardwick resident, Mark Leeson, is one of those to benefit. Mark has epilepsy and was lacking in confidence but together with his wife Miranda, he started attending sessions delivered by Hardwick in Partnership as part of the project.

Mark was supported to complete a National Open College Network NOCN course in Nutrition, Performance and Healthy Eating which focused on the function of food, the digestive system and

different types of food and their benefits on the body.

Mark enjoyed learning more about food and the link to his health and is proudly awaiting the arrival of his course certificate so he can put it up on the wall at home. The course has given him the knowledge he needs to make healthy lifestyle choices.

The Improving Futures project is also delivered by Know How North East, Eastern Ravens Trust and Groundwork and has helped more than 250 people.

Healthways Meanwhile more than 100 people have engaged with Healthways, which offers support to vulnerable families at risk of poor health outcomes. The project helps them to develop healthy behaviours and supports access to mainstream health services. The partners in this project are Five Lamps, Big Life Families, A Way Out and Bridges.

Close2Home Finally, Close2Home identifies and supports people with long-term conditions and mental health needs who have previously been admitted to hospital and find it difficult to access services or are socially isolated. The project aims to

reduce emergency admissions to hospital and improve wellbeing and self-care for patients.

So far the project has provided intensive support to more than 30 people thanks to its partners Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind, Stockton District Advice and Information Service and 3ScoreYears&10 Community Interest Company.

Dr Paul Williams, Stockton GP lead for Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees CCG, said: “Stockton’s voluntary organisations are well-placed to understand the needs of Stockton’s people and to come up with innovative ideas that can help improve people’s health and encourage positive changes to lifestyles.

“Working with Synergy, we were keen to test an approach whereby organisations were supported to work together to come up with their own solutions to problems, and I’m delighted that the projects are proving to be successful.”

All three projects run until spring 2014 with discussions to follow about how the voluntary sector can contribute to a healthier Borough in the future.

For more information on any of the projects, contact Synergy VCS Consortium on (01642) 688861 or email: info@synergy-vcs.org.uk

Health drive has Synergy on its side Once again we bring you news of how

Stockton Council, NHS health partners and other organisations are working together to tackle health inequalities through the Borough’s Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2013 – 2018.Most of us will know someone who has suffered ill health due to heart problems but there’s lots you can do to keep your heart healthy.

Of course, regular exercise and a healthy diet are great lifestyle choices but no matter what your lifestyle it’s also important to get checked out.

A free NHS Healthy Heart Check can help you lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and some forms of dementia.

The check only takes around 30 minutes and includes testing cholesterol levels, blood pressure, pulse and a body mass index test which includes a measurement of your waist – all painless but invaluable!

Tony Cooper, 57, (pictured) knows a thing or two about the importance of having regular health checks.

At the age of just 18 Tony was diagnosed with diabetes, which has had a general negative effect on his overall health.

In 2008 he suffered a heart attack – yet how fortunate was he to be to be sitting in his doctor’s surgery when he began to feel unwell!

After being taken to hospital, tests revealed Tony had actually suffered the primary heart attack the day before.

In the same year Tony underwent several procedures to his heart including the use of a balloon to widen an artery, an angioplasty which uses stents to also widen the arteries and, ultimately, a full heart bypass.

And he has the scars to prove it. His chest bears the scar of his open heart surgery as does his right leg, where surgeons removed a vein to use for his heart.

Today, he occasionally feels the effects of mild angina and always carries a pocket-sized atomiser to spray medication into his mouth to alleviate any pain.

In Tony’s eyes, a Healthy Heart Check for the body is like a service for the motor car!

He said: “I would recommend that everyone has a healthy heart check or as I call it ‘an MOT’. People should watch what they eat and not eat rubbish.

“I wasn’t aware there was a problem with my heart but if people get themselves checked out the tests can

put their mind at rest.”

Tony and his wife Janice recently moved into a bungalow and have benefited greatly from the support of their friends.

“Thanks to our many fantastic friends who chipped in with decorating and who also help me out with the garden,” he said.

Since 2008, around 27,000 people have taken up the invitation to have a Healthy

Heart Check. Death rates from heart disease have reduced at a faster rate

in Teesside than England.

Partners walking, and working, together left to right Jacky Duncan, from Know How North East/Corner House Youth Project, Mike Robinson from Stockton CAB, Peter Kelly, Director of Public Health, Dr Paul Williams, Stockton GP lead for Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees CCG and Jon Goodwin from Synergy VCS Consortium.

Mark Leeson (left) and senior youth worker,

Jon Brodie from Hardwick in Partnership Ltd At the heart of the matter

If you are eligible for a healthy heart check, you will be invited by a GP Practice for one every five years. Alternatively, you can make an appointment at your GP practice at your convenience.Checks also take place in community venues and workplaces across the Borough. To find out more visit: www.healthyheartchecktees.nhs.uk

A Healthy Heart Check

ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

PAGE 25PAGE 24

More than 60 of the UK’s up and coming acts are set to play this all-day music extravaganza! This year’s event will be hosted across eight town centre venues including Captain Cook’s replica ship HM

Endeavour. Headliners Young Rebel Set will take to the stage at ARC with a whole host of artists still to be announced. To see the full line-up and book tickets go to www.stocktoncalling.co.uk

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Fresh local produce will be the deal of the day at the specialist Farmers’ Market in Wellington Square, where a wide range of locally grown and homemade goods will be on offer. The Farmers’ Market is part of Stockton Council’s ongoing specialist market programme which complements the traditional weekly

market. From savoury goodies to sweet treats, you’re certain to find something to suit your taste. For full details about Stockton Council’s diverse programme of markets in the Town Centre visit www.stockton.gov.uk/specialistmarkets

The run-cycle-run event made its debut last year and was so popular that it’s back for 2014. The great atmosphere of a safe, closed road circuit will help you enjoy yourself and achieve personal goals. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced athlete, there’s a race to suit all abilities:

Novice 2k run, 10k cycle, 1k runSprint 5k run, 20k cycle, 2.5k runStandard 10k run, 40k cycle, 5k runThere will be a £2000 cash prize for the Standard Distance Race.

For more information and to book your place visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon

Stockton prides itself on hosting a whole range of exciting events for people of all interests and this year is no different. Over the coming months we’ll be putting people through their paces with thrilling sports events, hosting music festivals and unique shopping experiences. Find out more at www.stockton.gov.uk/events

STOCKTON DUATHLON FESTIVAL

STOCKTON CALLING

SUNDAY 27 APRIL 2014

SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2014

29 MARCH, 26 APRIL, 31 MAY 2014SPECIALIST FARMERS’ MARKET

COMMUNITY SAFETY

PAGE 27

ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

PAGE 26

Our sporting heroes!

Stockton has a great community of volunteers – those modest heroes who quietly go about their business, helping others and contributing to all areas of the community.Now, in the first scheme of its kind nationally, Stockton Council has enlisted a group of Volunteer Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers. Team members

carry out a minimum of 16 hours of volunteering per month but can do more. Following a 12-week training course covering everything from environmental

crime, nuisance vehicles and anti-social behaviour to traffic management and events, volunteers progress to working in the field alongside employed Enforcement Officers.Currently Stockton has capacity for up to 12 Volunteer Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers and five Despatch Officers. The age range for volunteers begins at 18 years with no upper age limit.Graeme Small, Assistant Security Services Manager of Stockton Council’s Neighbourhood Enforcement Service, said: “We are proud to be the first council in the country to create this scheme. Our Volunteer Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers add strength and support to our team and are an invaluable asset to the service.“Several of our employed team began as volunteers and are now pursuing careers as employed Enforcement Officers, Despatch Officers or working in our Control Room. Currently we would welcome enquiries from people who would like to become Volunteer Despatch Officers.”To find out more about volunteering opportunities in Stockton, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/volunteers

Helping to keep our communities safe

Shannon Harker – one of Stockton’s new Volunteer Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers

With a host of exciting events held throughout the year, Stockton’s libraries are about much more than books.

Just last month Stockton Central Library welcomed two recommended Five Star Reads novelists to celebrate National Libraries Day on 8 February.

Author Susan Elliot-Wright presented her debut novel, The Things We Never Said, a compelling tale of two intertwining stories set in the past and present.

She was joined by Sarah Stovell, who talked about her second novel The Night Flower, a thrilling Dickensian adventure story set in the Victorian period.

The authors stopped by to read excerpts of their novels, discuss their work with visitors and sign copies of their books.

Hot on the heels of Five Star Reads was a visit from National Poetry Day founder, William Sieghart, who opened the doors to his Poetry Clinic at Stockton Central Library.

Visitors enjoyed hearing inspiring poems from his anthology, Winning Words, while 12 lucky people won a one-to-one consultation with him.

William also spent time explaining the benefits of poetry as a healing aid for people with anything from social anxiety to mild depression.

The exciting programme of events in the Borough’s libraries will continue throughout 2014. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Great reads and great rhymes!

L-R: Stephen Miller, Alison Curbishley, Josef Craig, Gill Prescott, Syd Robinson, Stuart Hall and Geoff CookStuart Hall winner of Personality of the Year

William Sieghart

Audience members in Billingham Forum’s ice rink were wrapped up warm as they waited in anticipation for the results of the 2013 BBC North East Sports Awards last month.This was the first time the awards have been held in the Borough and represents a real coup for Billingham Forum, which boasts top-class facilities created in a £18.5million refurbishment.

The event recognises the achievements, success and contributions of the sportsmen, women, teams, coaches and volunteers in our region.

Hosting the awards were BBC Look North presenters Jeff Brown and Dawn Thewlis along with Alastair Brownlee from BBC Tees.

Darlington-based boxer Stuart Hall claimed the main award of Sports Personality of the Year after winning the IBF bantamweight world title in December.

Personality of the Year Stuart HallTeam of the Year Durham Country Cricket ClubJunior Shanice DavidsonDisabled Josef CraigInspiration Gill PrescottPerformance Ben Stokes/Garrick PorteousJackie Milburn Award Geoff CookUnsung hero award Syd Robson

Steve Chaytor, Managing Director of Tees Active, which manages Billingham Forum on behalf of Stockton Council, said: “We’re thrilled that the BBC brought these prestigious awards to Tees Valley and in particular, to Billingham Forum. It was a truly memorable evening.”

The event was organised by BBC North East, BBC Outreach, Sport England, Stockton Council and Tees Active Leisure.

Local gymnasts show off their skills before the event

Tackling crime and disorder across the BoroughStockton residents have identified their top priorities in fighting crime in a record-breaking response to a consultation on crime and community safety.The Crime and Disorder consultation survey is carried out every three years by The Safer Stockton Partnership (SSP) to seek residents’ views about how crime and disorder should be tackled across the Borough.Crime and anti-social behaviour has steadily reduced across the Borough since the last survey three years ago.This time an impressive 5,488 people responded to the survey – a five per cent increase on the number of responses received in 2010.

Geoff Lee, Chair of the SSP said: “The magnificent response to the survey shows how important an issue crime and anti-social behaviour remains for many people and we will now continue the progress we have already made in tackling all these issues as well as planning our work for the next three years.”The following key issues were raised as priorities:

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Violent crime (including robbery) Drug related offending Criminal damage Alcohol related crime and ASB Domestic violence

Steven Hume, Stockton Council’s Community Safety Manager, said:

“We want to ensure Stockton Borough remains the safest place in the Tees Valley so we are grateful to the public for letting us know what they think and what their priorities are. Their views will feed into the Community Safety Plan which helps the Council further shape its services and work alongside the SSP to reduce crime and the fear of crime.”The Community Safety Plan outlines how the Partnership will work with the Council and other agencies to develop projects and initiatives to reduce crime. For more information visit www.saferstockton.com

COMMUNITY SAFETYCOMMUNITY SAFETY

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Schools across the Borough are appealing to parents to park responsibly when dropping off and collecting their children.Irresponsible parking outside schools is a national problem that can compromise road safety and endanger children.There are safety restrictions around every school in the Borough including zigzag keep clear zones.Anyone observed stopping in the keep clear zone will receive a fixed penalty charge.

To help reduce congestion, Stockton Council operates a fully-supervised ‘walking bus’ scheme using fixed routes with designated ‘bus stops’ and pick-up times.A number of schools also operate ‘park and stride’ schemes encouraging parents to park in an identified safe area and then walk the last part of the journey.

Road Safety Officer, Peter Fleming, said: “We are all busy people and we realise that many parents use their vehicle for the school run.“We know the majority of parents do park responsibly but by highlighting the risks of parking too close to our schools we are hoping that everyone will find a safe and legal place to park.”To find out more about ‘walking buses or ‘park and stride’, call the Council’s Technical Services Team on (01642) 526737 or email: technicalservices@stockton.gov.uk

Around 1,000 year six pupils from Stockton’s primary schools competed in the Borough’s 17th annual road safety quiz but only one team could win!The final saw defending champions Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary RC Primary in Billingham battle it out against Ingleby Barwick schools, Ingleby Mill Primary and Myton Park Primary.

And Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary RC Primary emerged victorious once again, proving they really are road safety stars!

The event was organised by Stockton Council’s Road Safety Team and supported by TFM, The Forum Theatre Pantomime and Tees Active, who kindly donated prizes.

Keeping standards high With over 1,300 food businesses in the Borough, Stockton Council’s Environmental Health team is kept very busy!And while the team takes tough action to ensure food safety in the Borough’s many eateries, they also play a vital role in helping local food businesses to improve.A key part of this work sees officers from the team work closely with food businesses to provide help and advice on how they can maintain high standards of hygiene.Since consulting with the Environmental Health team, Borge, a popular restaurant in Stockton Town Centre, has consistently

been awarded a five star National Food Hygiene Rating in both its restaurant and function room.The business was originally awarded three stars in 2008 under the Council’s ‘Scores on the Doors’, a localised part of the national rating scheme but contacted Environmental Health team for advice on how to improve.Thanks to that advice, Borge’s rating increased to four and then the maximum five stars award, which the restaurant has retained ever since.Manager Joe Fraser said: “The scheme has been an excellent tool for our business. It has allowed us to show our current and potential customers how dedicated we are to food quality and safety.

“The scheme has led to increased business and the proactive and supportive approach taken by the Environmental Health Team has been welcoming and refreshing.”For more information, contact the Environmental Health Team on (01642) 526575, visit www.food.gov.uk/goodbusiness or view the Business Toolkit at www.food.gov.uk/policy-advice/hygieneratings/toolkit

The highest tide in 150 years brought serious flooding to Port Clarence in December.Around 370 homes were evacuated and residents were taken to Billingham Forum where they were given food, refreshments and a bed for the night.Stockton Council worked alongside Cleveland Police, Tristar Homes and a range of other organisations to protect and maintain the safety of those living in the affected area and were on hand to offer practical and financial support while the clean-up operation began. A huge amount of work was done by local voluntary and community organisations to help people return to their homes and get back on track.

The high tide also caused significant damage to the tidal flood bank to the south of Greatham Creek and an RAF Chinook helicopter was drafted in to winch tonnes of boulders from the sea front to prevent further flooding. The Environment Agency is currently leading on a project to make permanent repairs to the tidal bank.Stockton Council is continuing to work to tackle the causes of flooding and the damage it causes. Last month the Government announced that more than £10million had been allocated to the Borough to tackle flooding as a result of bids submitted by the Council and the Environment Agency for Flood Defence Grant in Aid funding. Find out more on page 4.Winning pupils from Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary RC Primary

(L-R) Scarlett Spence, Jessica Mahon and Tiege Kidson.

Road safety stars retain their crown!

An RAF Chinook helicopter at Greatham Creek

Borge

United response to floods in Port Clarence

You can help keep your family, home and property safe by taking some simple steps: Sign up to free flood warnings: If you live in an area affected by flooding make sure you sign up to the Environment Agency’s free floodline warning direct service. It only takes minutes to sign up and will give you notice through a direct message when flooding is expected and may affect your property. You can receive warnings by telephone, mobile, email SMS text message or fax. Sign up at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodMake a flood plan and kit: Work out what information and equipment you may need in a flood and keep these items safe in a ‘grab bag’. The Environment Agency provides a checklist on their website to help you prepare. Visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodSandbags and flood protection: It is the responsibility of private householders and landlords to provide flood protection equipment such as sandbags and barriers at their properties. You can buy sandbags at a local builder’s merchant or online.A range of advice and information are available at www.stockton.gov.uk/flooding or www.environment-agency.gov.uk

BE PREPARED

Think before you parkFlooding in Port Clarence

STRONG COMMUNITIESSTRONG COMMUNITIES

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One Stockton Council employee, who is normally out on our streets in his day to day job, is street cleaner 56-year-old David ‘Bugsy’ Bryan (pictured). Bugsy took centre stage in the first episode of Ashley Banjo’s Big Town Dance and won the hearts of the nation.

Bugsy was due to retire from the Council after 36 years’ service last year but decided to dance on for a little while longer and is planning to retire this year.

He said: “I had a wonderful time taking part in the programme which was brilliant for Stockton. I left school at 14 and I’ve been very lucky to have a job all this time. I’m now I’m looking forward to my retirement!”

Lord of the Dance

People of all ages turned out in their thousands to take part in Sky 1’s Big Town Dance, which hit television screens across the nation recently.The massive community dance extravaganza saw everyone from Council workers, pensioners and police officers to bus drivers, teachers and young people unite to “bust some moves” in Stockton High Street.

Leading the project were Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashley Banjo and Diversity, who spent time challenging the people of the Borough to unite and learn the moves needed to put on the spectacular dance event.

Big Town Dance was one of many exciting events to attract hordes of people into Stockton Town Centre last year and there’ll be plenty more in the months and years ahead.

Stockton’s big dance

STRONG COMMUNITIESSTRONG COMMUNITIES

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Twenty years and still going strong!Our regular “Spotlight On” feature is about shining a deserved light on some of Stockton’s remarkable voluntary, community and social enterprise sector (VCSE) organisations and the invaluable contribution they make to the Borough.Stockton Residents’ Community Group Association, better known to many as SRCGA, is rightly proud of the unique relationship it has built with residents over the last 20 years.Since 1984 local community groups in the Borough have received immense support from SRCGA. Engaging the community is a crucial part of its work. It has supported more than 420 grassroots organisations in helping to build their capacity, governance, funding, sustainability, health and training.They can provide community groups with key requirements, giving them foundations to make them more robust such as drawing up constitutions, opening bank accounts, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, policies and procedures and even photocopying!SRCGA also share a database with Catalyst (the organisation which brings together Stockton’s voluntary organisations) of more than 700 groups and organisations, which allows them to share the good work and information they, and other organisations, provide.

In addition SRCGA has supported grassroots groups to submit and secure funding applications to the value of more than £70,000.It’s normally SRCGA that nominates groups and volunteers for awards so they were delighted and proud to be winners of the Catalyst Outstanding Achievement Award 2013.Julie Derbyshire, CEO of SRCGA, said: “What an amazing 20 years it has been, a rollercoaster of a journey, challenging but exciting at the same time. I feel very proud and honoured to have been given the opportunity to play a small part in helping to shape Stockton.“I have met some wonderful, inspirational people who never cease to amaze me – people who work unconditionally to bring about change within their communities. To all the people, agencies and Stockton Borough Council a huge heartfelt ‘thank you’ – you are all amazing.”If you would like to find out about the work of SRCGA, contact their team on (01642) 733912.

Guides (left to right) Jessie, Imogen, Emily, Abi, Holly and Rebekah enjoying the outdoors

TAKING THEIR SEATS Two prominent Borough organisations have appointed to senior positions.

The Board of Catalyst, which supports and leads the voluntary and community sector, has appointed its new Chief Executive Officer, Steve Rose, while Tony Beckwith has been appointed Chair of the Borough’s health watchdog, Healthwatch.

Both have a wealth of experience. Steve, who has been acting as Interim Chief Executive since January 2013, is an experienced manager having previously worked at a senior level in both the voluntary sector and local authorities. Tony has worked at a senior level within the health service and local government.

For more information on Catalyst visit www.catalyststockton.org or call (01642) 733906 and for more information on Healthwatch visit www.healthwatchstocktonontees.co.uk or call (01642) 688312.

Steve Rose

Tony Beckwith

Counting down to the centenaryThe “1,245 Sunflowers” project is just one of many events taking place across the Borough to commemorate the First World War centenary.

Museums across the Tees Valley have secured almost £400,000 from the Arts Council to bring the story of the First World War to life.

A touring exhibition will visit libraries and museums across the area with a variety

of wartime items going on display. It stops at Preston Park Museum’s Music Room from 27 to 29 May and at the Rediscover Stockton Shop on Stockton High Street from 24 June to 6 July.

Have a look back at the lives of women and the challenges they faced at home and work during History Wardrobe’s talk and fashion show at Stockton Central Library on 11 June.

Stockton Council has secured £34,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to lead a year-long youth project which will see a group of 13 to 25-year-olds research the

contribution and sacrifices made by the people of Stockton during the First World War then produce a film, graphic novel and an exhibition of their work.

Plans for these exhibitions, events and activities are progressing at a pace and there will be more details on www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Yarm 1914 Commemoration Group will be carrying out a research project in primary and secondary schools and providing activities for all the family. To find out more visit www.yarm1914.com

SPOTLIGHT ON…

Guiding hands needed!Since its inception in 1910 Girlguiding has been an integral part of our Borough. But for local groups to continue to operate successfully, more female volunteer leaders are needed to give their time and support. Can you lend a guiding hand?Leaders are not only given training but also offered the opportunity to complete a recognised Girlguiding Leadership qualification and can decide how much time they want to spend volunteering.During term-time, Girlguiding Cleveland runs weekly meetings in Stockton, Billingham, Eaglescliffe, Ingleby Barwick, Thornaby and Yarm for girls aged five to seven (Rainbows), seven to 10 (Brownies), 10 to 14 (Guides) and 14 to 25 (Senior Section).The lives of children and young people are enhanced by Girlguiding, which offers children and young people an array of challenging and fun indoor and outdoor activities including crafts, games, trips and adventurous pursuits.

Volunteers can also take part in other fundraising projects and get involved in organising events such as camps and themed activity days.To find out more email the County Commissioner, Christine Brooks info@girlguiding-cleveland.org.ukVolunteers will be required to go through DBS clearance.

Turning the Borough

Local people will be invited to help turn the Borough gold as part of a moving project to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War.

The “1,245 Sunflowers” project will be a community driven centrepiece of a Borough-wide programme of events, exhibitions and activities to commemorate the centenary. The one-of-a-kind project will honour the 1,245 soldiers listed in Stockton’s Book of Remembrance who gave their lives to fight for their country.

During the Easter Holidays (April 14 to 27) families and individuals across the Borough will be invited to collect sunflower seeds to plant in memory of those who fought and died in the war. Seeds will also be offered to schools, businesses and community groups and they too will be asked to grow a memorial sunflower of their own.

Each seed pack will signify one of Stockton’s fallen soldiers and will be issued with tags bearing the name and date of birth of the solider to tie around the plant stalks as they grow.

Anyone who plants seeds will be encouraged to adopt the memory of their particular veteran by researching their life and the impact the war had on the local community with the hope

that these stories will add a human and local significance to people’s awareness of the global conflict.

The Council’s Creative Partner, Mike McGrother, is leading the project and says that the choice of bright flowers will help to signify the vibrancy and youthfulness of those whose lives were lost between 1914 and 1918.

He said: “One hundred years after Britain – and Stockton – joined the war, we will remember them not just as soldiers but as the ordinary people of Stockton, who paid an extraordinary price for their town and their country. Significantly, sunflowers are expected to reach full bloom at the end of the summer but these will be cut down early in August as a fitting tribute to the lives lost prematurely during battle.

“Inspiration for the project also came from the 19th century hymn, Abide With Me. The sunflowers’ growth pattern mimic the line ‘shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies’, from the popular wartime song.”

The project will end in a special reflective event on 4 August, which is the 100th anniversary of Britain entering the war.

Look out for further details of the project in forthcoming editions of Stockton News or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events or www.1245sunflowers.org

ADULTS SERVICESADULTS SERVICES

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A Stockton social worker has won national acclaim for her work in dementia care. Corinne Walsh scooped the ‘Dementia Care Inspiring Leader’ award at the National Dementia Care Awards.A Stockton Council employee, Corinne is part of the Borough’s integrated mental health services for older people team, which brings together the Council and Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys Foundation Trust.The judges were impressed by Corinne’s passion for the role, her links to dementia care initiatives and the range of projects she has devised. One such project is Stockton’s dementia cafe, ‘Fusion’, which offers support, entertainment and opportunities to socialise to carers and people with dementia.Every year Corinne also organises a town-wide programme of activities to mark Dementia Awareness Week and throughout the year she runs dementia care-themed educational sessions and creative workshops.Since receiving the award Corinne has become Project Leader for the North Tees Dementia Collaborative.She said: “I feel privileged to have been nominated by my colleagues for this award and to have the opportunity to work in partnership with them on projects that have real value for people living with dementia and their families.”

National recognition for dementia leader

A project to make Stockton a more dementia-friendly Borough has won national recognition from the Alzheimer’s Society.The Dementia Friendly Stockton Project, led by Stockton Council and Cleveland Alzheimer’s Residential Centre, encourages organisations across the Borough to take a number of affordable, achievable steps that will make them more accessible and meet the needs of customers affected by dementia.A dementia-friendly community is a city, town or village where people with dementia are understood, respected, supported and are confident they can contribute to community life.Local shops, restaurants, libraries and other organisations across the Borough are now being offered support to increase their awareness of dementia and make their premises more dementia-friendly.All organisations taking part in the project can display the national ‘Working to become more Dementia Friendly’ symbol.If you have a business and would like to join the project to become more dementia friendly contact Peter Otter, Dementia Friendly Link Worker for Cleveland Alzheimer’s Residential Centre on (01642) 611110.

Becoming a dementia-friendly borough

When 42-year-old married mum of two Sharon Bimson (pictured) embarked on a Tees Achieve night school course for fun, never in her wildest dreams did she imagine it would lead to her receiving a national award.

Sharon, who runs Sadie May Cakes from her home in Grangefield, Stockton, makes cakes for all occasions and, specialising in weddings and is now the proud holder of The North of England Wedding Award.

The Awards recognise those businesses which go the extra mile for their customers, providing ‘outstanding service and inspiring their customers to want to actively and positively promote them.’

Sharon initially enrolled on a Tees Achieve sugar craft course, held at Egglescliffe School, for pure enjoyment. She wanted to do something creative and thought it would be great for her as she had a degree in design and had attended art college so felt she would enjoy learning a new creative craft. Little did she know it was the start of a journey!

Not only did Sharon thoroughly enjoy crafting the flowers and gaining a sense of achievement but she also enjoyed being part of happy times as people celebrated occasions such as birthdays and weddings.

She said: “I took a giant step to start my business, leaving a successful career as a senior manager in marketing, with a goal to have more time for my two children at primary school.

“Having my business has allowed me to be there for my children. Being able to pick them up from school is a real privilege.”

Sharon didn’t let the practicalities of setting up a business stop her and got on with registering with HMRC as a self-employed sole trader and sorting out her National Insurance. She also contacted Environmental Health and gained a five-star hygiene rating from Stockton Council.

It’s been quite a journey for Sharon. Prestigious magazines such as Belle Bridal, Unveiled and Wedding Ideas have all featured her Sadie May Cakes business.

“Although we are still in the early stages of 2014, I am fully booked this summer and already taking bookings for 2015!” she said.

To see some of Sharon’s wonderful creations visit www.sadiemaycakes.co.uk

To find out more about what Tees Achieve can offer you and the wide variety of courses available visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve The new summer-term starts on April 28.

You can also call into Tees Achieve in person at Billingham Community Centre, The Causeway, Billingham, TS23 2DA.

Alternatively, email tees.achieve@stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 527904.

Working together to tackle social isolation Social isolation affects many older people across Stockton Borough.To help tackle it Synergy VCS Consortium is launching a new initiative to seek the views of people over 50 as well as the agencies that work with them.

Trevor Redfern has recently been appointed by Synergy to coordinate this piece of work. He has organised focus groups and consultation sessions to find out about the impact of loneliness, what services and projects should be put in place to reduce it and how older residents can be involved in the design and delivery of future services that affect them.

The research will inform a vision and strategy for reducing the impact of social isolation on the Borough’s older residents and Synergy hope to use it to secure funding to develop a project to tackle social isolation.

It will build on the work Stockton’s Over 50’s Assembly completed last year to understand how and why people become lonely.

Synergy are supported in the development of this work by a steering group including organisations such as Stockton Council, Catalyst and other voluntary and community groups.

To find out more email: trevor.redfern@synergy-vcs.org.uk or call (01642) 688 862.

Corinne Walsh accepts her award from BBC’s Bill Turnbull, joined by award sponsor Jackie Pool of Jackie Pool Associates Ltd, which develops dementia leadership programmes and training materials

From marketing to making cakes!

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CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

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“Teaching is all about people.” That’s the maxim of Stockton Riverside College Principal, Phil Cook (pictured), who isn’t a man to sit in an office behind closed doors. The 48 year old cares deeply about helping young people and adults succeed and prefers “getting out there” to talk to students and staff.To say Phil is passionate about what he does is an understatement. He works long hours – starting at 7am and often not finishing until after 9pm but, as he says, “That’s my choice.”

Phil’s day begins with responding to emails and other administrative tasks. Then he is out the door and amongst his students and staff where his energy and enthusiasm are infectious.

Since joining Stockton Riverside College it appears there has been a huge cultural shift, after all it’s unusual for a Principal to be so visible, and to some Phil’s style may seem unconventional.

But he’s getting results and positive feedback - and that’s what matters.

Phil joined the College in February last year, from Barnsley College. In educational terms, that’s a relatively short time to make an impact but already he’s making his mark by raising the College profile and the aspirations and achievements of all under his wing. In just ten months there has been a dramatic rise in both success rates and in positive responses from student and staff surveys.

Phil is responsible for around 5,000 students and the 450 staff, across both the Stockton Riverside College site at Teesdale and Bede Sixth Form College in Billingham, and he makes a point of listening to them.

He has created a Staff Association and student Principal Forums to encourage a spirit of openness so people can freely suggest ideas for improvement and innovation.

He says: “I’m privileged to do this job. It’s wonderful to work with such a diverse mix of people on a daily basis.”

“Sometimes organisations must undergo change which some people view as challenging and some as exciting,” he said. “I’m one of the latter. Primarily when dealing with change the first thing we must ask is, ‘if we do this, how will it positively impact our students?’ And we won’t do the easy things, we will do the right things.”

The College has superb facilities yet Phil insists: “We are very fortunate but if we cast our minds back to our own learning experiences, it’s the teachers we remember not the building.”

Phil’s job also involves working with outside bodies and businesses, maintaining links with the local community whilst crucially navigating Government policy to ensure the organisation remains sustainable and successful at a time of continuing funding cuts.

But at the heart of his work are his students - their enjoyment - their confidence – their skills - and their future.

In any spare time Phil does have, he enjoys gardening but says he has another, and very important job – “taxi driving” his two children Jack (15) and Caitlin (13). He and his wife Barbara also have two dogs, two cats, nine chickens and not forgetting seven goldfish!

On a more serious note the reading he enjoys isn’t fiction or detective novels – no – Phil’s almost embarrassed to admit he thoroughly enjoys reading ‘academic papers and journals’ but doesn’t want to be seen as ‘sad’!

It’s highly unlikely that anyone who meets Phil would think that!

There are a growing number of children in Stockton who need to be fostered and Stockton Council needs more foster carers to help look after them. Here, Vanessa and Neil Scollen, a couple in their 50s from Norton, share their experience of becoming foster carers.

“After our grown up children had left home, our house felt very quiet and empty. We had our first Christmas and holiday without them and we didn’t enjoy it. With spare bedrooms in our ‘empty nest’, we felt that we still had the space and energy to look after children.”

Initial Enquiry

“We phoned Stockton Council’s Child Placement team and spoke to a friendly social worker who instantly put us at ease. She sent us an information pack to read, and we agreed that fostering was something we wanted to pursue.”

Initial Visit

“Days later, two social workers visited us at home for an informal chat. They were very approachable and we talked about ourselves and the types of fostering that would suit our circumstances, as we wanted to continue working as child minders, which was still possible. We also showed them our spare bedrooms, which could accommodate children. There was no pressure to officially apply to foster but after they’d left, we knew fostering was for us.”

Preparation for Fostering Group“We were invited to take part in ‘Preparation for Fostering’ training, which lasted four days and included meeting current foster carers. We needn’t have been nervous beforehand, as we were given a warm welcome by the social workers running the training, and everyone was really friendly and in the same boat as us. “Together, we learnt about why some children need to be fostered, the role of the foster carer and understanding behaviour, as well as moving children on. What surprised us most was that as foster carers, we’d be working within a team of people to care for a child, so we felt reassured at the amount of support we’d get.”

Assessment

“We expected the assessment to be intrusive but we soon realised how important it is to safeguard children by placing them with safe carers. Our social worker made us feel very comfortable and we opened up about our childhoods, our relationship and lifestyle, as well as completing our family tree, police checks and a medical. It was very thorough and we had to be patient but we understood how necessary it was.”

The Panel

“Following the assessment, our social worker compiled a report about us, which was submitted to a panel of people to decide if we should be approved as foster carers. When we heard we’d been approved, we felt ecstatic and ready for our first placement.”

Placement“Soon afterwards, we welcomed a baby boy into our family who was just 12 hours old. He’d come straight from the hospital where he’d been born. At first sight, we just wanted to hold him and give him the love and care he needed. Our social worker gave us the space and time to adjust, but it was reassuring to know they were there if needed. His gorgeous smile gave us so much happiness and ten months later we moved him on as a little bundle of joy. It was hard to say goodbye but we had to stay strong, as before we knew it, another child came to us and we were needed once again. “The children we’ve fostered are always in our minds, as they become part of your family. We’d tell anyone to foster, we only wish we’d done it sooner.”

Becoming a foster carerDay in the Life Phil Cook Principal of

Stockton Riverside College

To find out more about becoming a foster carer, email: child.placement@stockton.gov.uk or call: (01642) 526218. You can also visit Stockton Council’s website: www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering

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North Shore Academy is continuing to improve and has moved out of special measures.Ofsted inspectors found: “The relentless determination of the principal, senior leaders and governors has resulted in many important aspects of the academy’s work improving significantly within a very short space of time.”The report also noted: “Students behave and feel safe. They have good attitudes to learning

and their behaviour around the academy is calm and purposeful.”Meanwhile, figures released by the Department for Education in January have confirmed last year’s GCSE results were the Academy’s best yet.In a remarkable improvement, 53 per cent of the Academy’s students achieved five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C including English and maths compared with 22 per cent in 2012.

Bright future for North Shore Academy

Four of Stockton’s highest-achieving primary schools have won national recognition for their top-class performance.Junction Farm, Durham Lane, St Patrick’s RCVA and The Links primary schools all featured in the “Top 500 State Primary Schools” list published by The Sunday Times.The list is based on schools’ Key Stage 2 performance in English and maths over the last three years.Junction Farm Primary School in Eaglescliffe not only featured in the top 100 but also in the top 50 of the Department for Education’s own league tables for 2013 – the highest ranking of any Stockton primary school.Head teacher, Karen Norton, said: “We suspected we’d done well but didn’t know quite how well so I’m absolutely ecstatic! This is a tremendous achievement but I have to stress that it is the result of a total team effort.“It’s thanks to a combination of amazingly hardworking staff, pupils who are keen and eager to learn and the support of the local authority, governors and parents, who always push us to improve.

“These tables are based on the results of tests our pupils take in Year 6 at the end of their time in primary school so it’s rewarding to know that they are entering secondary school with a strong foundation from which they can realise their dreams.“I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to our success and also say a big well done to the other schools that have won similar recognition.”

Stockton schools flying high!

Staff, parents and carers at Harrow Gate Primary School have received a prestigious national award for building strong relationships between home and school.It’s the first primary school in the Borough to receive the Leading Parent Partnership Award (LPPA). The accolade recognises ‘family friendly’ schools where home-school links are at the heart of their ethos. Headteacher Jackie Warburton said: “The days are long gone where parents leave their children at the school gate. We are proud to be acknowledged as a highly inclusive school and thank everyone, including our full time Parent Support Advisor Susan Dobbing, for all their hard work and commitment to listening to parents’ suggestions and responding to their views.”

STOCKTON PARENTS LEAD THE WAY

The work of Stockton’s Youth Offending Service has won praise from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation.A report published following a three-day inspection found strengths in engaging with children and young people, their parents and carers in carrying out initial assessments and intervention plans, identifying diversity issues and assessing the likelihood of reoffending.“The Youth Offending Service can be proud of the progress made since our last inspection in 2010,” said the inspectors’ report. “Staff delivered high quality reports, assessments of reoffending, harm and

vulnerability. They were well supported by their management team through robust quality assurance procedures.”Head of Children and Young People, Shaun McLurg, said: “The outcome of this report is testament to our dedicated and efficient Youth Offending Service team who do all they can to make sure the right support and interventions are in place to reduce the likelihood of young people reoffending.“We are delighted with the inspectors’ findings and the team will continue to build upon its strengths and address areas for improvement identified by the inspectors.”

PRAISE FOR STOCKTON’S YOUTH OFFENDING SERVICE Stockton Borough parents, carers and professionals have been

finding out about Government changes to special educational needs (SEN) legislation.More than 100 parents and professionals attended an event organised by Stockton Council with the parent participation group, Stockton United for Change, to explore the new arrangements.Stockton Council has launched an e-newsletter to keep people informed (paper copies are available).The main changes are:

Education, Health and Care Plans to replace Statements of SEN and Learning Difficulty Assessments A ‘Local Offer’ will provide information about local services and how to access them Personal Budgets to provide information about the money available to meet a child or young person’s needs so families can have a say in how it is spent.

To sign up for the newsletter or for further information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/sensupport or contact Stockton United for Change by emailing stocktonunitedforchange@gmail.com or calling 07935 447375.

Changes to special educational needs legislation

Young people from across Stockton Borough have been honing their business skills thanks to a packed programme of events organised by Stockton Council to mark Global Entrepreneurship Week. Pupils from Stockton Sixth Form College set up their own ‘pre-loved’ pop-up clothes shop in The Shambles in Stockton Town Centre. The entrepreneurial teenagers sourced clothes to sell as well as promoting and running the pop-up shop. The Borough’s secondary schools were tasked with producing

a range of sweet tasting goodies to sell as part of a “sweet treat food challenge”. The Bright Idea Challenges saw primary school pupils work in small teams to come up with innovative business ideas, design and make products to sell, buy and budget for necessary basics and pitch ideas to others to get their businesses off to a start. To find out more about how Stockton Council is supporting enterprise in Stockton Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/entrepreneur or call (01642) 527573.

Young entrepreneurs showcase skills

Headteacher Karen Norton celebrates with children from Junction Farm Primary School

Principal Bill Jordan with students from North Shore Academy (Picture courtesy of Evening Gazette)

Northfield pupil, Karen Tommaney with Debbie Fixter from Little Sprouts, a Thornaby based catering company

(L-R) Students Samanta Zduzj, Alex Siddle, Laura Etherington and Sophie Dixon outside the pop-up shop

Up to June, 2014 www.stockton.gov.uk/wardsurgeries

NORTH WARD SURGERIES

Billingham Central09 April 2014, Billingham Youth & Community Centre, 6:30pm – 7:30pm14 May 2014, Billingham Youth & Community Centre, 6:30pm – 7:30pm 11 June 2014, Billingham Youth & Community Centre, 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Councillor Mrs Ann MccoyTel: 01642 535604 Email: ann.mccoy@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Barry WoodhouseTel: 01642 371638 Email: barry.woodhouse@stockton.gov.uk

Billingham East28 March 2014New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm25 April 2014New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm30 May 2014 New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm

Councillor Mick StokerTel: 01642 371641 Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Evaline CunninghamTel: 01642 532090 Email: evaline.cunningham@stockton.gov.uk

Billingham North14 April 2014, North Billingham Methodist Church, 6:30pm– 7:30pm12 May 2014, High Grange Community Centre, 6:30pm– 7:30pm09 June 2014, North Billingham Methodist Church, 6:30pm– 7:30pm

Councillor Mrs Lynne ApedaileTel: 01642 554344 Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Colin LeckonbyTel: 01642 872896 Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk

Billingham North 01 April 2014, North Billingham Methodist Church, 7:15pm- 8:15pm06 May 2014, High Grange Community Centre, 7:15pm- 8:15pm03 June 2014, North Billingham Methodist Church, 7:15pm- 8:15pm

Councillor Ray MccallTel: 01642 880999 Email: ray.mccall@stockton.gov.uk

Billingham South10 April 2014, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room , 6:00pm– 7:00pm08 May 2014, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room , 6:00pm– 7:00pm12 June 2014, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room , 6:00pm– 7:00pm

Councillor Mrs Jean O’Donnell Tel: 01642 559717 Email: jean.odonnell@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Michael Smith Tel: 01642 371782 Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk

Billingham West28 March 2014, Wolviston Court Community Centre, 6:00pm– 7:00pm25 April 2014, Wolviston Court Community Centre, 6:00pm– 7:00pm30 May 2014, Wolviston Court Community Centre, 6:00pm– 7:00pm

Councillor Mrs Mary WomphreyTel: 01642 555755 Email: mary.womphrey@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Mick WomphreyTel: 01642 555755 Email: mick.womphrey@stockton.gov.uk

Up to 31 June, 2014 www.stockton.gov.uk/wardsurgeries

CENTRAL WARD SURGERIES

Bishopsgarth & Elm Tree 24 March 2014, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm – 6:30pm08 April 2014, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm28 April 2014, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm – 6:30pm1 May 2014, Bishopsgarth School, 6.00pm – 6.30pm6 May 2014, Elm Tree Community Centre 6.00pm – 7.00pm3 June 2014, Elm Tree Community Centre 6.00pm – 7.00pm5 June 2014, Bishopsgarth School 6.00pm – 6.30pm

Councillor Mrs Julia CherrettTel: 01642 785473 Email: julia.cherrett@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Elliot KennedyTel: 01642 618851 Email: elliot.kennedy@stockton.gov.uk

Fairfield14 April 2014, Fairfield Library, 4:30pm– 5:00pm12 May 2014, Fairfield Library, 4:30pm– 5:00pm09 June 2014, Fairfield Library, 4:30pm– 5:00pm

Councillor Maurice PerryTel: 01642 586914 Email: maurice.perry@stockton.gov.uk Councillor Bill WoodheadTel: 01642 584409 Email: bill.woodhead@stockton.gov.uk

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WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA

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Grangefield03 April 2014, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm14 April 2014, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm01 May 2014, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm12 May 2014, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm19 May 2014, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pm05 June 2014, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm09 June 2014, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm

Councillor Carol ClarkTel: 01642 675688 Email: carol.clark@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Michael ClarkTel: 01642 675688 Email: michael.clark@stockton.gov.uk

Hardwick & Salters Lane 11 April 2014, Salters Lane Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm12 April 2014, Aspen Gardens 11:00am – 12:00 09 May 2014, Salters Lane Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm10 May 2014, Aspen Gardens, 11:00am – 12:00

Councillor Nigel CookeTel: 01642 589442 Email: nigel.cooke@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Norma Stephenson OBETel: 01642 675891 Email: norma.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk

Northern Parishes10 April 2014, Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles 7:00pm - 8:00pm01 May 2014, Wolviston Village Hall 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Councillor John GardnerTel: 01740 645357 Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk

Norton North16 April 2014, Norton North Community & Resource Centre, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Councillor Steve NelsonTel: 01642 534417 Email: steve.nelson@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Mrs Kathryn NelsonTel: 01642 534417 Email: kathryn.nelson@stockton.gov.uk

Hartburn07 April 2014, Elmwood Community Centre, 6:45pm start12 May 2014, Elmwood Community Centre, 6:45pm start 02 June 2014, Elmwood Community Centre, 6:45pm start

Councillor Terry LaingTel: 01642 587356 Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Ken LuptonTel: 01642 587286 Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk

Newtown04 April 2014, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm18 April 2014, Newtown Community Resource Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm02 May 2014, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm16 May 2014, Newtown Community Resource Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm30 May 2014, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm

Councillor Paul BakerTel: 01642 608406 Email: paul.baker@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Bob Gibson OBETel: 01642 614482 Email: robert.gibson@stockton.gov.uk

Norton South01 April 2014, Albany Resource Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm15 April 2014, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place, 5:30pm – 6:30pm29 April 2014, Albany Resource Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm13 May 2014, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place, 5:30pm – 6:30pm27 May 2014, Albany Resource Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm10 June 2014, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place, 5:30pm – 6:30pm Councillor Bob CookTel: 01642 890058Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Eileen JohnsonTel: 01642 673952Email: eileen.johnson@stockton.gov.uk

Norton West 01 April 2014, Crooksbarn Primary School 4:30pm – 5:30pm, The Education Centre 5:45pm – 6:45pm07 April 2014, Glebe Community Centre, 10.00am – 12noon05 May 2014, Glebe Community Centre, 10.00am – 12noon06 May 2014, Crooksbarn Primary School, 4:30pm – 5:30pm, The Education Centre 5:45pm – 6:45pm02 June 2014, Glebe Community Centre, 10.00am – 12noon03 June 2014, The Education Centre, 5:45pm – 6:45pm Councillor David WilburnTel: 01642 532517 Email: david.wilburn@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Norma WilburnTel: 01642 532517 Email: norma.wilburn@stockton.gov.uk

Parkfield & Oxbridge03 April 2014, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only), 6:00pm – 7:00pmOxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only), 6:00pm – 7:00pm17 April 2014, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, 6:00pm – 7:00pm01 May 2014, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only), 6:00pm – 7:00pmOxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only), 6:00pm – 7:00pm15 May 2014, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, 6:00pm – 7:00pm05 June 2014, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only), 6:00pm – 7:00pmOxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 6:00pm – 7:00pm

Councillor Mohammed JavedTel: 01642 602420Email: mohammed.javed@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor David RoseTel: 01642 789993Email: david.rose@stockton.gov.uk

Roseworth16 April 2014, Redhill Children’s Centre , 5:30pm – 6:30pm14 May 2014, Kiora Hall, 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Councillor Jim BeallTel: 01642 871759 Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Miss Barbara InmanTel: 01642 586564 Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk

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Stockton Town Centre03 April 2014, The Willows Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm10 April 2014, Parkfield Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm24 April 2014, Culture CIC, Dovecot St 6:00pm – 7:00pm01 May 2014, The Willows Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm08 May 2014, Parkfield Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm22 May 2014, Culture CIC, Dovecot St, 6:00pm – 7:00pm05 June 2014, The Willows Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm

Councillor David ColemanTel: 01642 673952 Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk Councillor Paul KirtonTel: 01642 559331Email: paul.kirton@stockton.gov.uk

WEST WARD SURGERIES

Western Parishes04 April 2014, The Chapel School Room, Carlton, 7:00pm – 8:00pm02 May 2014, Stillington Village Hall, Stillington, 7:00pm – 8:00pm06 June 2014, The Wilson Centre, Long Newton 7:00pm – 8:00pm

Councillor Andrew StephensonTel: 0778 529 3416 Email: afsegg@hotmail.co.uk or andrew.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk

Eaglescliffe04 April 2014, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 – 7:30pm15 April 2014, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 6:00 - 7:00pm02 May 2014, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 - 7:30pm20 May 2014, Egglescliffe Community Centre, 6:30 - 7:30pm06 June 2014, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 – 7:30pm

Councillor Alan LewisTel: 01642 784910 Email: alan.lewis@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Mrs Maureen RiggTel: 01642 785689 Email: maureen.rigg@stockton.gov.uk

EaglescliffeNo April Surgeries12 May 2014, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm – 6:30pm16 May 2014, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 5:45pm - 6:45pm 9 June 2014, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm – 6:30pm Councillor Phil DennisTel: 01642 790916Email: phil.dennis@stockton.gov.uk

Yarm01 April 2014, Yarm Library, 5:45pm – 6:30pm06 May 2014, Layfield Primary School, 5:45pm – 6:30pm03 June 2014, Levendale Primary School, 5:45pm – 6:30pm

Councillor Ben HouchenTel: 01642 786639 Email: ben.houchen@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Andrew SherrisTel: 01642 786767 Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Mark Chatburn Tel: 01642 789982 Email: mark.chatburn@stockton.gov.uk

EAST WARD SURGERIES

Ingleby Barwick East(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West)08 April 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School, 6:00pm – 7:00pm07 May 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School, 6:00pm – 7:00pm03 June 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School, 6:00pm – 7:00pmResidents of Maltby & Hilton are welcome at Ingleby Barwick Ward Surgeries but if unable to attend, can request a meeting with Councillors Corr, Faulks and Kirby by appointment before Parish Council meetings.

Councillor Gillian CorrTel: 01642 764056 Email: gillian.corr@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Kevin FaulksTel: 01642 764874 Email: kevin.faulks@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Jean KirbyTel: 01642 762092 Email: jean.kirby@stockton.gov.uk

Ingleby Barwick West(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East)08 April 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School, 6:00pm – 7:00pm07 May 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School, 6:00pm – 7:00pm03 June 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary Schooll, 6:00pm – 7:00pm

Councillor Ken DixonTel: 01642 764650 Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor David HarringtonTel: 01642 764652 Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.ukSkype: david.harrington01642Councillor Ross PattersonTel: 01642 764865 Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk

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Mandale & Victoria26 April 2014, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 11:00am - 12:00 noon31 May 2014, Rochester Court Sheltered Housing, 11:00am – 12:00 noon

Councillor Tina Large Tel: 01642 676509 Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Steve WalmsleyTel: 01642 604176 Email: steve.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk

Mandale & Victoria16 April 2014, Riverbank Children Centre, 10:30am – 11:30am17 April 2014, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm15 May 2014, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm21 May 2014, Rochester Court Sheltered Housing, 10:30am – 11:30am

Councillor Tracey Stott Tel: 01642 674471Mobile: 07528 014 605 Email: tracey.stott@stockton.gov.uk

Stainsby Hill14 April 2014, Eltham Crescent Community Centre, 5:00pm – 6:00pm19 May 2014, Eltham Crescent Community Centre, 5.00pm – 6.00pm

Councillor Derrick BrownTel: 01642 751028 Email: derrick.brown@stockton.gov.uk

Stainsby Hill10 April 2014, South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm17 May 2014, Thornaby Pavilion, 11:00am – 12:00

Councillor Mrs Sylvia WalmsleyTel: 01642 602375 Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk

Village14 April 2014, The Griffin Pub, 5:00pm – 6:00PM12 May 2014, The Griffin Pub, 5:00pm – 6:00pm 09 June 2014, The Griffin Pub, 5:00pm – 6:00pmCouncillor Ian DalgarnoTel: 01642 882985 Email: ian.dalgarno@stockton.gov.ukCouncillor Mick MooreTel: 01642 764381 Email: mick.moore@stockton.gov.uk

WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA

WHAT’S ON

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WHAT’S ON

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WHAT’S ONA look at what’s going on across Stockton from March 2014 to May 2014. This is just a taster so make sure you visit our events website www.stockton.gov.uk/events for a full list with the very latest details. The events listed are subject to change. We reserve the right to alter or cancel any event.

REGULAR EVENTS MARCH - MAY

Café ScientifiqueDate Monthly Time 8pm to 10pm Location The Point, ARC, Dovecot Street

Café Scientifique meets monthly to chat about current issues in science and technology. Free entrance but participants (other than students and the unwaged) are invited to make a donation of £3 towards expenses. Held on the third Tuesday of the month. Visit: www.cafesci-stockton.org.uk

Tees Barrage Park RunDate Every Saturday Time 9am Location Tees Barrage International White Water Course

The hour long run is open to everyone regardless of running pace or level of fitness. You must register at www.parkrun.org.uk/teesbarrage

Your local libraryTo find out more about the huge range of regular and special events held at Stockton Borough libraries, from craft events to parent and toddler as well as reading groups, pop into your local library or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries

Tees Heritage ParkGroundwork North East offers a range of walks, workshops and events suitable for adults, children and families. All walks are free and funded through Big Lottery Community Spaces. Some have limited spaces available. To find out more or book a place visit www.fthp.org.uk email amie.henry@groundwork.org.uk or telephone Amie Henry, on (01642) 613636, 07587 778449

Wynyard Woodland Park Planetarium and ObservatorySee the beauty of the night sky in the Planetarium’s star-theatre and observatory near Thorpe Thewles. Over the coming months there are a host of exciting public planetarium shows exploring highlights of the night sky as well as special events and regular Cleveland and Darlington Astronomical Society meetings. Visit the website for full listings www.wynyard-planetarium.net

Preston Park Museum and GroundsThere’s so much to do this spring at Preston Park. From exhibitions to special and regular events there will be something to suit everyone. As the weather gets warmer there are a host of garden-inspired events. Come along to see the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden planted up for the season or take a garden tour.

Join us for the popular monthly food demonstrations with resident cook Deborah Batley. Explore home-grown recipes, sample some tasty treats and take home new ideas to inspire your own culinary creativity.

Book up to learn a new traditional pastime and make a beautiful item to take home at the special ParkMade taster days.

For full details about all these events and more at Preston Park Museum and Grounds visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk or call (01642) 527375.

MARCH

Easter Farmers’ Market Date Saturday 29 March Time 9am – 2pm Location Wellington Square, Stockton Town CentreHigh quality food and drink produced within 50 miles of the Borough are the order of the day at the ever popular Farmers’ Market. The perfect opportunity to sample local food and support local businesses by purchasing a variety of tasty treats. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

APRIL

Stockton Riverside College Student Market ChallengeDate Wednesday 2 April Time 11am – 3pm Location Wellington SquareStudents from Stockton Riverside College will compete to run the best stall at this market challenge, featuring a range of products and goods, including handmade treats. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Lambing LiveDate Saturday 5 April to Sunday 20 April Time 10am – 4pm Location RSPB Saltholme, Seaton Carew Road, Port ClarenceCome along and see the newest arrivals to the Saltholme Team. The Easter holidays signal the arrival of the lambs, come along and learn how the sheep at Saltholme help make it a great place for wildlife and take part in some fantastic craft activities.

If you arrive by car entry is £4 per car. Entry is free for RSPB members.To find out more visit www.rspb.org.uk/saltholme

History of Modern Brewing by Bryan CooperDate Tuesday 8 April Time 2pm – 4pm Location Stockton Central LibraryBryan Cooper, a local family historian will give an exciting talk on his research into his own family’s links with brewing in the area. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Chic VintiqueDate Saturday 12 April Time 10am – 4pm Location Parish Gardens, Stockton Town CentreVintage and retro clothes, collectables, quality gifts and all things gorgeous are the name of the game at our Chic Vintique Market. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Poetry Reading WorkshopDate Wednesday 16 April Time 5.30pm – 7pm Location Norton Library, Norton High StreetStockton poet Mark Robinson is offering a poetry reading workshop to explore poems, share views on style and meaning and to help build your confidence in reading poetry. Mark’s latest poetry collection focuses on the cultural transformation of the North of England from the miners’ strike to the Big Society. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

WHAT’S ON

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WHAT’S ON

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Stockton CallingDate Saturday 19 April Time 1.30pm – 11.30pm Location Venues across Stockton Town Centre The ever-expanding Stockton Calling takes place in eight of Stockton’s finest venues and showcases the best in up and coming acts from around the UK and beyond.

The visually and audibly captivating Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) will headline The Georgian Theatre stage. This event is for all ages but under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.

Advanced tickets: £15, or £18 on the door. Booking advised, tickets available from ARC Box Office, Green Dragon Studios, and The Storytellers. For more information visit www.stocktoncalling.co.uk

World Book Night with Kate FoxDate Wednesday 23 April Time 7pm – 9pm Location Stockton Central LibraryCelebrate World Book Night with northern stand-up comedian and poet Kate Fox. Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy and poetry and receive a free book (while stocks last). Adults only. Tickets cost £6. The event is for people aged 18 and over. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

From March to May there’s plenty going on at your local arts and entertainment venues – simply call or visit their websites:

ARCvisit www.arconline.co.uk tel (01642) 525199

Billingham Forumvisit www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk tel (01642) 552663

Georgian Theatrevisit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk tel (01642) 674115

Farmers’ Market Date Saturday 26 April Time 9am – 2pm Location Wellington SquareHigh quality food and drink produced within 50 miles of Stockton Borough are the order of the day at the ever popular Farmers Market. The perfect opportunity to sample local food and support local businesses by purchasing a variety of tasty treats. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Oriental Evening MarketDate Thursday 8 May Time 6pm – 9pm Location Silver Street, StocktonCome and enjoy the first evening market of the year with our oriental market. Come along for a great mix of oriental themed goods including a mixture of food and other products. For more information visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Stockton Duathlon 2014Date Sunday 27 April Time All day event Location Stockton Town CentreOne of the country’s premier Duathlons is back to challenge athletes of all levels in this exciting run-cycle-run challenge. See pages 24 and 25 for more details or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon for full details.

MAY

The Garden Show at Preston Park Date Saturday 3 – Monday 5 May Time 10am – 5pm Venue Preston Park Museum and GroundsA fantastic Garden Show with family entertainment, offering something for everyone.

Cost Adult £4.50, Concessions £4, Children (3 – 17 years) £1. Children free on Saturday and until noon on Sunday. For more information visit www.garden-festivals.com

Ladies Cupcake RideDate Sunday 11 May Time 9am Venue Preston Park Museum and GroundsEnjoy a ladies only 34 mile cycle ride finished off with a well-deserved cup of tea and homemade cupcake. The ride with British Cycling BREEZE status starts at Preston Park and follows the River Tees towards Middleton St George via quiet country lanes. It then heads to Sadberge and Stillington before returning to Preston Park. Advance booking £17, £20 on the day. For more details visit www.bluegiraffebicycles.co.uk or call 07549773752

Tees RegattaDate Saturday 17 MayTime 9am – 6pmVenue Tees Watersport Centre, Dugdale Street,

North ShoreCome and watch the fantastic Tees Regatta organised by the Tees Rowing Club, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

The event will be a great spectacle along the River Tees with a range of participants from novice to elite. The regatta offers a range of boat classes including singles, doubles, fours, and eights. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Makers’ Market & Craft FairDate Saturday 24 MayTime 10am – 3pmVenue Parish Gardens, Stockton Town CentreA craft market selling unique handmade products including textiles, cakes, wood turned items and jewellery, come along, browse the stalls and enjoy the live music. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Food, Fitness and Fun MarketDate Friday 30 MayTime 10am – 3pmVenue Stockton High StreetCome and try our market aimed at keeping you healthy over the spring and summer months. A fantastic market to encourage healthy living and exercise whilst also offering advice on healthy eating with exercise and cooking demonstrations. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Farmers’ Market Date Saturday 31 MayTime 9am – 2pm Venue Wellington Square, Stockton Town CentreHigh quality food and drink produced within 50 miles of the Borough are the order of the day at the ever popular Farmers’ Market. The perfect opportunity to sample local food and support local businesses by purchasing a variety of tasty treats. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Arts, Culture and Leisure

Big plans for great experiences

Have you visited us recently?

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