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The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Big plans, bright future
MARCH 2017www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktononteesnews
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CONTENTS
Stockton-on-Tees 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 [email protected]
Stockton-on-Tees 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-on-Tees News is produced by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Communications Team and designed by Twentyseven Design. Pictures courtesy of Dave Charnley, Peter Mernagh, Gary Walsh, Gilbert Johnston, Doug Moody, Dawn McNamara, Gilmar Ribeiro and others.
There is an audio version of Stockton-on-Tees News. Call 01642 526098 to order a copy or email [email protected]
CONTENTSBIG NEWS FOR STOCKTON-ON-TEES
News Round Up 4
BIG PLANS FOR THE HEALTH OF OUR PEOPLE
Health and Wellbeing 16
BIG PLANS FOR AN OUTSTANDING BOROUGH
Economic Regeneration and Transport 6
BIG PLANS FOR YOUR AREA
Ward Surgeries in Your Area 42
BIG PLANS FOR THE FUTURE
What’s On 45
BIG PLANS FOR THE CARE WE PROVIDE
Adults Services 35
BIG PLANS FOR OUR PLACES AND OPEN SPACES
Environment and Housing 12
AMBITIOUS, EFFECTIVE AND PROUD TO SERVE
Your Council 37
BIG PLANS FOR GREAT EXPERIENCES
Arts, Culture and Leisure 23
BIG PLANS FOR KEEPING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE
Community Safety 14
BIG PLANS FOR HELPING OUR COMMUNITIES PROSPER
Strong Communities 36
BIG PLANS FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF OUR BOROUGH
Children and Young People 18
You’re hired! 8 Time to explore Preston Park 28 32LIVE in Stockton
NEWS ROUND UPNEWS ROUND UP
PAGE 5PAGE 4
WELCOME TO THIS SPRING EDITION OF STOCKTON-ON-TEES NEWSIt’s time for the Council to set its annual budget for the services we deliver to you. It continues to be a challenging time as we face on-going reductions in funding and increasing pressures on our social care services. You can learn more on page 38 about how the Council plans to meet the savings it needs to make and how it will use the money it has to pay for services while continuing to invest in our Borough.
We’ve also got a lot of positive news to share with you in this edition. It’s recently been announced that a new International Study Centre will open at Durham University’s Queen’s Campus in September welcoming students from across the world and Stockton Town Centre has been crowned the winner of the Great British High Street of the Year Awards in the Rising Star category. The High Street beat off strong competition to scoop the prestigious accolade which is an endorsement of having a good long-term plan which is starting to see improvements. It is becoming a great all-round destination for everything from world class events to specialist markets, sophisticated cocktail bars, trendy pubs and quirky independent shops alongside national chains. There remains a lot more to do and with lots more challenges, particularly within the retail sector – but we’re on with it. You can read about the latest developments on pages 6, 7, 30 and 31.
Meanwhile, we are pleased to see so many of our Borough’s businesses doing so well. On page 9 there’s a really interesting story about Harrison Packaging who supply major UK retailers including Marks & Spencer.
And it’s not just manufacturing where Stockton stands out. The Borough’s also has some fantastic home grown musical talent. On pages 32 and 33 you can find out about some of the artists and what they like best about the area.
Finally, don’t forget to pull out and keep the PLAY pages of this magazine which highlight a selection of the spring/summer events programme – such as the new music and comedy festival Stockton Stages and the usual favourites like the Stockton Cycling Festival, Duathlon and SIRF which celebrates its 30th birthday this year.
Three business women from the Borough are among the most entrepreneurial in the North East.
Claire Moore of School House Recruitment, Jacqueline Gallazi-Ritchie of All England Gas Services Ltd and Joanna Wake of RAW Digital Training were all named winners at the prestigious annual North East Women Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.
Now in its 17th year, the awards celebrate women’s achievements in a range of sectors.
Winner of the Sage-sponsored Best Small Business Award and the Susan Dobson Award for Entrepreneurship, Jacqueline Gallazi-Ritchie, said: “I was very humbled to be nominated, but to have won both awards is truly an honour, not just for myself, but also the team at All England Gas.”
Award winning women
It’s almost 10 years since construction work began on our iconic Infinity Bridge and we want you to help us mark the occasion by sending us your photographs of this truly stunning structure.There are prizes to be won! Not only will the best image feature on the front cover of the May edition of Stockton-on-Tees News, the winning photographer will also win VIP tickets to the Stockton Calling Music Festival.
To enter, post your picture on your Facebook wall and tag the Council so we can share it. Don’t worry if you don’t do Facebook or have difficulty tagging, just email your entry to [email protected] or post it to Infinity Bridge photographs, Communications Team, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, TS18 1LD (please include your contact details).
Entries must be received by Sunday 9 April and will be judged by the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees.
Neil SchneiderChief Executive, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Stockton-on-Tees welcomes studentsDurham University’s plans to create a new higher education facility for international students on the banks of the River Tees are progressing well.
Leading global education provider, Study Group, will operate the new International Study Centre (ISC) at Queen’s Campus in collaboration with the University. Courses at the ISC will help develop students’ language and study skills to prepare them for entry to Durham University undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
From September, the Thornaby based facility will welcome students from all around the world. Students attending the ISC, which is a short walk from Stockton Town Centre, will be a year-round presence in the Borough.
Study Group already runs similar facilities in the UK, Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand and the USA.
New base for sea cadetsA special guest was on hand to officially open Stockton-on-Tees Sea Cadets’ new £460,000 base in Thornaby.Captain Philip Russell RN, Captain Sea Cadets, unveiled a plaque at the official launch of the cadets’ riverside building at Thornaby Place.
The two-storey building – named ‘Apedaile House’ in recognition of the cadets’ President, Alderman Lynne Apedaile – has been transformed into a bright, modern and fully-accessible facility boasting a ground floor wet room, a fully equipped catering galley and a lift to improve disabled access. An adjoining annexe has also been refurbished and now has new changing rooms and showers, a high quality kitchen and central heating.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council supported the Sea Cadets application for a Community Covenant Grant to help buy the facility, ahead of its refurbishment.
The Sea Cadets is the UK’s largest maritime charity for young people aged 10 to 18. For more information visit www.sea-cadets.org/stockton
Jacqueline Gallazi-Ritchie
Can you do better?
Get snap happy on the banks of the Tees
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT
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The Globe TheatreMajor works to create a 2,500 capacity live music and comedy venue at The Globe are expected to begin this summer.
Sophisticated cocktail bars and trendy eateriesFrom classy cocktail bars to stylish new eateries offering tasty locally sourced food – Stockton has it all.
Hampton by Hilton Hotel A 125-bed Hampton by Hilton Hotel is expected to open in Autumn 2018.
Heritage in the 21st CenturyListed and heritage buildings will benefit from a £2million boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Retail growthStockton is home to lots of new independent businesses that are thriving alongside national chains.
The Georgian TheatreWork to increase the capacity of the much loved Georgian Theatre is nearly complete.
Swallow HotelThe transformation of the former Swallow Hotel into student accommodation is expected to start this year.
Year round eventsFlexible, multi-purpose space means the town can host a world class events programme attracting visitors from far and wide.
Stockton’s a Rising StarIt’s no surprise that the town captured the imagination of the Head of Google Retail and beat other high street names to take the Great British High Street “Rising Star” crown.
You just have to take a walk around to see how much it offers shoppers and visitors alike.But it doesn’t stop there. On these pages you can learn more about the latest developments.
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT
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Harrison Packaging in Thornaby is one of the longest established printed carton manufacturers in Europe, supplying major UK retailers and well-known brand names alike.Founded in 1882, the company has grown significantly in recent years and now has 130 employees at its modern facility on Teesside Industrial Estate.
Sales Director, Mike Baum, said: “We now have a diverse customer base from new start-ups to much larger organisations such as Bettys and Taylors of Harrogate, where we are a key supplier of packaging for the Yorkshire Tea brand.
“We produced the 2016 M&S Beauty Advent calendar, supplying 10.2million components to exacting specification and a very tight schedule. Work has already started to secure the 2017 version and we’re confident we’ll rise to the challenge.
“Our team has done a great job moving us into more added value areas through innovation, including a first foray into the premium drinks market. We recently rebranded using rich black and gold imagery to reflect this change, whilst hinting at our rich heritage.
Mike added: “We’re proud of our roots and it’s fantastic to know the contribution we are making to the future of the Stockton-on-Tees area.”
For more information visit www.harrisonpack.com
Sales Director, Mike Baum
Stockton-on-Tees has a long-standing tradition in manufacturing that is still very much in evidence today. Through our regular Made in Stockton-on-Tees feature we take a look at some of the Borough’s manufacturing success stories.
The finishing area
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is helping employers to take on apprentices and people searching for a route back into work.Andrea Broughton owns Mrs B’s @ Whinstone and Barley Fields which provides holiday, before and after school care. She said: “My first apprentice is now a fully paid member of our team and I have since taken on another two young people. The Council’s Learning and Skills service is a very professional team with your best business interests at heart.”Craig Hill has also benefitted from the service after being unemployed for more than a year.He completed a three-week ‘Directions’ course and then gained a Level 2 qualification in Food Hygiene before taking up an apprenticeship at Thyme Café at the Belasis Business Centre in Billingham.
Craig said: “I’ve gained so much from the support I’ve received and it has been great to build my skills and start my apprenticeship. I’ve discovered new skills and confidence that I didn’t have before and now I’m looking to the future.”For more information about apprenticeships email [email protected] or call 01642 528112.
Andrea Broughton with her apprentice Kayleigh Hughes
You’re hired!
Craig Hill enjoying his apprenticeship at Thyme Café
A taste for Enterprise
Noorulain Zafar has found success
with her Samosa2Go brand
A young entrepreneur from Egglescliffe School is looking to the future after a promising start in the world of business.Noorulain Zafar, 15, is a member of the school’s ‘Egglescliffe Enterprise’ group and has found success in sourcing and selling tasty food products under her ‘Samosa2Go’ brand.
She has sold the samosas at various school events to rave reviews and made a profit of over £900 thanks to her stall at the Stockton Sparkles Market.
Noorulain says: “Alongside all the support from school and my family, this has been an experience to remember.
“Selling at high profile events has opened my eyes to the world of business and how life is outside the classroom – an insight every teenager should have.
“The reaction I’ve got from the local community and the buzz surrounding Samosa2Go has been totally overwhelming. It’s something I won’t forget and that’s why I intend to continue with Samosa2Go and further my insight into the business world.”
Any young people wishing to start up in business are encouraged to contact the Council’s Business and Enterprise Team on 01642 527567.
ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT
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Major step forward for Ingleby Barwick leisure and library complex
Ingleby Barwick’s very own leisure facility is on target to open next year.The plans were approved last month so a contractor can now be procured.
The multimillion pound leisure centre, library and customer service point will feature a wide range of facilities including swimming pools, a health and fitness suite, a gym and community access library.
Work is expected to get under way later this year with the facility opening to the public in 2018.
Richard McGuckin, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Director of Economic Growth and Development, said: “The approval of the planning application is a significant milestone
in the development of this facility which is going to bring some excellent services to the heart of Ingleby Barwick and we hope it will be enjoyed by residents and visitors from across the Borough.
“We’ve been working closely with All Saints CE Academy and the Diocese of York on this project and we’re looking forward to continuing that relationship as the scheme progresses.”
The leisure centre is being designed by Ellis Williams Architects and will be operated by Tees Active Leisure which already operates high quality fitness and leisure venues in the Borough on behalf of the Council.
Keep an eye on future editions of Stockton-on-Tees News for more updates.
Ingleby Barwick roadworks completeA major highway improvement scheme to alleviate traffic congestion in Ingleby Barwick is now complete.The dualling of Myton Way and Ingleby Way was carried out by the Council in partnership with Lumsden & Carroll and was part of a wider project to reduce peak period congestion in the area following the upgrade of the Quarry Farm roundabout.
The improvements allow the roads in the centre of Ingleby Barwick to better deal with a growing population and for traffic to flow more freely to meet the needs of residents, visitors and businesses.
Makeover for shopping paradesShopping parades across the Borough are gaining a new lease of life.Shoppers visiting Redhill Road shops in Roseworth will notice that improvements have been made to the paving, benches, bins and landscaping.
And Thirteen Group is enhancing the canopies of the shops they own too.
Windlestone Road in Billingham is also being rejuvenated with the introduction of new paving, seating, trees and additional parking.
Meanwhile, at the front of High Newham Court in Hardwick, the paths have been upgraded to improve safety for pedestrians.
Director of Economic Growth and Development at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Richard McGuckin, said: “These shops are really well used by residents so it is important that they are kept in a good state of repair and that they are maintained so they are accessible for everyone.”
A new way to travelA Community Transport Bus Service has been launched to help people who don’t have access to local bus services travel around the Borough.
The innovative scheme will test whether there is a demand for a commercial bus service in certain areas.
The buses run on weekdays between Norton, Stockton Town Centre and Hartburn, and between Wolviston Village and Billingham Town Centre.
They can seat between eight and 16 passengers and have removable seats to allow space for three wheelchairs.
Anyone who would like to use the service must register first. Membership is free and you will be issued with a card to show the driver when you get on board.
To find out more about the routes, timetables and how to become a member visit www.stockton.gov.uk/communitytransport
ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSINGENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING
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The first residents will soon to be welcomed at the exciting new West End Gardens development in Stockton.Situated off Dovecot Street, West End Gardens features a range of two and three-bedroom homes, as well as bungalows and apartments for affordable rent.The new homes include dining or breakfasting kitchens (including an oven, hob and extractor), off-street parking and great family bathrooms with showers.Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has delivered the development in partnership with Thirteen Group and Keepmoat Homes. Martin Hawthorne, Director of Development and Regeneration at Thirteen, said: “This mixture of new houses, bungalows and apartments, not only provides much needed housing but stimulates the ongoing development of a sustainable and vibrant community in the area.”Richard McGuckin, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Director of Economic Growth and Development, added: “I am sure the first residents will have a great time living in this family-friendly area.”
The first six, two-bedroom homes have been handed over to Thirteen by Keepmoat, who built the properties. To find out more visit www.thirteengroup.co.uk
Repairing the roadsStockton-on-Tees Borough Council is carrying out a carefully planned maintenance programme to help prevent damage to the Borough’s roads and footpaths.Richard McGuckin, the Council’s Director of Economic Growth and Development, said: “We take the upkeep of our roads and footpaths very seriously and we know how important this issue is for our residents and businesses alike.”
And you can play your part and help the Council by reporting damaged roads, footpaths and potholes online. It’s easy to do – www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline or call 01642 391959.
A £14million programme to install super-efficient lighting across the Borough is continuing.In Billingham North and Hardwick modern LED lighting units have been fitted instead of the old style lanterns, and columns over 25 years old have been replaced too.
Work is now under way in Norton West.The programme will be on-going until the end of the year when the new street lights will have been rolled out across the whole Borough.For further information and to find out when the street lights in your area will be replaced visit www.stockton.gov.uk/streetlighting
Big plans, bright future!
If you are unsure of your collection week you can find out more on the website or by signing up to My Stockton – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/mystockton or call 01642 391959.
Easter collectionsDuring the Easter period, waste and recycling collections will be carried out as normal with our staff working on Good Friday to ensure there is no disruption.
Making Stockton home
KNOW YOUR KERBSIDE COLLECTIONS
The fortnightly kerbside collections of green waste are starting soon:
• Red week collections begin on Monday 17 April
• Blue week collections begin on Monday 24 April
COMMUNITY SAFETYCOMMUNITY SAFETY
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Cleveland Fire Brigade and health organisations are joining forces to help keep residents safe and well.The Brigade has expanded their usual home visits to those aged over 65 to include checks and advice on health-related issues such as dementia support, befriending services, smoking cessation and alcohol support services, in addition to fire safety related advice.
Ian Hayton, Chief Fire Officer, said: “We’re delighted to be working with our partners in health and social care to use our skills and experience in keeping people safe in their homes.
“Looking at a wider range of issues will allow us to make every contact count.”
A new bridge to help reduce the risk of flooding has opened on Durham Road.Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, in partnership with the Environment Agency, replaced Londonderry Bridge as part of the Lustrum Beck flood alleviation scheme.
Richard McGuckin, the Council’s Director of Economic Growth and Development, said: “The old bridge was a major contributor to the serious flooding seen in this area due to its arches obstructing the beck’s flow.
“Now we have a single span bridge which will help to reduce the flood risk to more than 150 homes.”
The Environment Agency has built new flood walls along Lustrum Beck at Bedford Street and Duddon Walk – tying in with a raised embankment at Newtown.
All of these improvements come after the completion of a new lifting screen at Primrose Hill and a new flood wall at Bishopton Road.
Ted Thomas, Project Manager for the Environment Agency, said: “We’ll now turn our attention to the next phase of work, which is to store extra flood water in the catchment upstream of Stockton and create a new habitat.”
Did you know that legislation introduced nationally in April 2016 made it compulsory for owners to microchip their dogs and to ensure that the information on the microchip is kept up to date?
And it’s not just the law, it could help you be quickly reunited with a lost or stolen pet and also prevents the cost and upset of housing animals in kennels and rehoming.
Beryl Hebron, of Stockton, is an advocate of microchipping after being reunited with her lost dog. She said: “Susie went missing in the woods near Preston Park and we were totally devastated. Thankfully, the Animal Welfare team called the next morning to say they’d found her which was a big relief!”
The Council’s Animal Welfare Team holds free microchipping appointments for dogs on the second and fourth Thursday of every month in their offices on Church Road.
The Dogs Trust also offers free microchipping sessions.Visit www.chipmydog.org.uk to find out more.
To make an appointment to have your dog microchipped or for advice on how you update your personal details for a dog which is already chipped, call 01642 526575 or email [email protected]
Building bridges
Making the Borough saferStockton-on-Tees Borough Council is working with taxi drivers to make the Borough safer.Nearly 700 hackney and private hire firms have taken a special course so they can help protect vulnerable adults and safeguard children.
They learnt about identifying signs of harm, abuse and neglect as well as how to report concerns and when it is appropriate to share information taking into account passenger confidentiality.
Tahir Ali, Secretary of the Stockton Hackney Carriage Association, said: “The course was great and it was really useful to learn about the support services available so we can make sure anyone who needs help knows where they can get it.”
The Council’s Learning and Skills Service also delivers a Level 2 NVQ in road passenger vehicle driving for taxi and private hire operators which covers everything from providing a safe and legal vehicle to safely transporting children and young people, and offering assistance to wheelchair users.
Anyone interested in either course should email [email protected] or call 01642 528112.
Be safe, be seenAs more and more people take up cycling, it is even more important that all road users know how to stay safe:
• Wear a helmet and bright clothing when cycling
• Be aware of vehicles, especially when cycling onto the road from a path
• When driving, look out for cyclists and maintain a safe passing distance
• Visit the Hub, Stockton’s one-stop resource centre, for local cycling routes, training, guided rides and more.
For more information about the Hub, visit www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com
Dennis Hancock from the Environment Agency (left) and Richard McGuckin from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Staying safe at home
Terry and Moyra Widham talk to Cleveland Fire Brigade Watch Manager, Kevin Harrison
CHECK YOUR CHIP Beryl Hebron and Susie
Have your sayCleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner is attending a number of community meetings.
For full details visit www.cleveland.pcc.police.uk and search “Your Force, Your Voice”.
Barry Coppinger can also be contacted by email at [email protected] or on 01642 301653.
HEALTH AND WELLBEINGHEALTH AND WELLBEING
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We continue to bring you news of how Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, NHS health partners and other organisations are working together to tackle health inequalities through the Borough’s Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy.
In this issue, we speak to an active family who all understand the importance of keeping fit. Take one look at this family and you will see that there is no age limit on physical activity. Grandmother Chris Mahoney, 72, from Wolviston, mother Julie Ground, 48, and daughter Rachel Grounds, 17, both from Billingham, all lead healthy lifestyles through regular swimming, weight training, classes such as Clubbercise and much more.
“I go to classes with my mam and other occasions with my daughter, and sometimes we all go together. It’s nice having a shared passion. It helps me to stay trim and makes me feel fit and healthy,” said Julie.
Daughter Rachel, added: “Exercise is all I’ve known since being young. My mam, grandma and dad have always been physically active and my brother runs and goes kick boxing.
“Once you see the improvements to your physical health and how you feel after each session, it becomes addictive.”
To accompany regular exercise Public Health England is urging parents to ‘Be Food Smart’ and take more control of their children’s diets. A new “Be Food Smart” app has been developed to highlight just how much sugar, saturated fat and salt can be found in everyday food and drink that their children consume.
The free app helps and encourages families to choose healthier options and works by scanning the barcode of products. The app allows parents to compare brands, and features food detective activities for children and mini missions that the whole family can enjoy.
To find out more about how to get active like this family visit www.teesactive.co.uk or call 01642 528539.
For more information on the Change4Life App, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/change4life
Changes to urgent care servicesA new integrated urgent care service is being launched on 1 April.NHS Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have announced that the 24/7, GP-led facility will be operated from the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool.
It will include out of hours services, where patients can see a GP or Urgent Care Practitioner for urgent care needs on evenings and weekends, and will also cover minor injuries.
Patients will continue to access their own GP practice as they do now. However, when local practices are closed you will call 111 for an appointment with the urgent care service.
For more information, visit www.hartlepoolandstocktonccg.nhs.uk
Mayor’s screening messageThe Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Ken Dixon, recently paid a special visit to the endoscopy unit at the University Hospital of North Tees.The Mayor said: “It was really insightful to tour the endoscopy unit which does great work screening for bowel cancer. I learnt a lot about the causes, prevention and treatment of the disease which is a subject that is close to my heart as Bowel Cancer UK is one of my charities.
“All of the staff who spoke to me were really inspirational and I would like to thank them for the fantastic work that they do.
“Bowel cancer is a preventable and curable disease if it is caught early enough so I strongly urge everyone to get themselves checked out if they suspect any signs or symptoms.”
All men and women aged 60 to 74 registered with a GP are sent a home test kit. If you are over 75, you can ask for a kit by calling the Freephone helpline 0800 707 60 60.
Fitness for all the family
The Mayor and Mayoress, Mrs Linda Dixon with Deputy Matron, Alison McCullagh
Keeping the Borough warmIn previous editions of Stockton-on-Tees News we learnt that a scheme to help people stay warmer in their homes has improved efficiency and reduced fuel bills but now new research by Newcastle University is highlighting the health benefits too.
Between 2012 and 2016 the Council used money from the Government funded ECO initiative and its own Public Health budget to ensure nearly 5000 homes had improvements like new boiler installations and loft, cavity and external wall insulations.
Sarah Bowman-Abouna, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Interim Director of Public Health, said: “The health benefits are still accumulating, however, Stockton Borough now has the second lowest level of fuel poverty in the North East and it’s really pleasing to learn that residents are already experiencing a better quality of life with those who received external insulation at the beginning of the scheme having fewer practice nurse and outpatient hospital appointments.”
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLECHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
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CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Places to playNow spring is here it’s time to get out and about
in the fresh air and what better way to keep
the little ones entertained during the Easter
holidays than to spend an hour or two at one of
the Borough’s play areas.
There are more than 40 play areas in parks, country parks and other green spaces
across the Borough as well as 14 multi-use games areas which can be used for all
kinds of informal ball games.
For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/parks
PAGE 18
John Whitehead Park, Billingham
Grangefield Park, Stockton
Wynyard Woodland Park
Windmill Park, Ingleby Barwick
Helen CaswellMarketing and Recruitment Officer – Fostering & AdoptionAdopting or fostering a child or young person requires patience, commitment and love but is also an extremely rewarding and inspiring experience – something that Helen Caswell knows well.
Helen promotes all aspects of fostering and adoption from short respite placements, to medium and long-term care for individual children and babies, sibling groups, teenagers and young people over 16 who aren’t ready to live independently and need supported lodgings.
Her expertise is grounded in her own personal experience. Helen and her husband, Stewart, have been foster carers for 12 years.
Helen says: “The need for stable and loving homes can never be underestimated. In 2016, we had 419 children in the care of the local authority and the numbers are rising every year.”
Helen works with the Child Placement Team and the Tees Valley Fostering Network to develop a programme of events and awareness-raising opportunities for prospective foster carers and adoptive parents across the region.
The job also involves helping to support existing foster carers so she works alongside social workers to provide practical help such as organising events and producing materials to help foster carers stay informed.
“People often think they aren’t eligible to foster or adopt – that’s a big misconception. The reality is that carers come from all ages, backgrounds and ethnic groups, as well as from same sex relationships. My message is if you’re interested in fostering and adoption, please get in touch.”
For more information email [email protected], call 01642 526218 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering
DAY IN THE LIFE
Helen Caswell discusses fostering
Leven Park, Yarm
CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLECHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
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Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council has taken to social media using its own film stars to attract more experienced social workers.There’s a shortage of children’s social workers nationally, so the Council is trying a new approach to recruitment.
A film has been created to share what it is like to work in the children’s social care team and everyone in it works for the Council.
Director of Children’s Services, Martin Gray (pictured), even took to the Air Trail high ropes course on the banks of the River Tees to emphasise the Council isn’t afraid to try something new. He said: “We were rated “Good” by Ofsted last year and already have some great staff but we’re determined to do all we can for our children and families and to do that we want to encourage even more social workers to help us.”To watch the film, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/socialwork
From learning to play the violin to vocal tuition and from African drumming to instrument repair – Tees Valley Music Service (TVMS) offers it all.TVMS can support any young person looking to start playing a musical instrument or keen on developing their singing skills - and can advise which instrument might suit them best.
For more experienced musicians and singers, there is a chance to meet other young musicians and join the nationally acclaimed Tees Valley Youth Choir who recently performed at the Royal Albert Hall or the Tees Valley Youth Orchestra who toured Hungary last year.
When an instrument needs a little TLC you need look no further because an instrument repair service is included when you sign up for lessons.
Manager of the Tees Valley Music Service, Susan Robertson, said: “TVMS has served the Tees Valley for more than 30 years and in that time has continued to grow and expand to meet demand.
“We were initially an instrumental tuition service only, but now we offer a vast variety of musical opportunities across the Tees Valley and work with over 30,000 young people each year.
“There is so much musical talent in our region and we are passionate about nurturing it.”
For further information about the full range of opportunities available for young people through Tees Valley Music Service, visit www.tvms.org.uk
Calling great social workers
Free childcareIf your child turns three or four this year they could be entitled to 30 hours a week free childcare from September.
To find out if they are eligible, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/30hoursMeanwhile, parents of two year olds are reminded that they could get up to 15 hours a week for free if they receive certain benefits and have a household income below £16,190.
A Citizen Portal has been developed to help mums and dads find out if they can benefit – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/freechildcare
For more childcare information, email [email protected] or call 01642 527225.
Are you looking after someone else’s child?There is a legal requirement for all parents and private foster carers to notify the Council if they are looking after a child that is not their own for more than 28 days.
When a parent arranges for another adult who is not a close relative to look after their child it is called private fostering.
Anyone who is already private fostering, or who plans to, should email [email protected] or call (Hartlepool dial code) 01429 284284.
To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/privatefostering
Director of Children’s Services, Martin Gray, climbs Air Trail
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE
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CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
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Four young people from Stockton-on-Tees have been handpicked to share their experiences of caring for a family member.The teenagers from Eastern Ravens Trust visited the office of the Children’s Commissioner in London.
Staff working for the Commissioner asked the young people what services and support is available for young carers and about how their lives are affected by the care they provide.
The Children’s Commissioner works with and on behalf of all children in England by promoting and protecting their rights.
Bailey Shaw, 16, from Norton, said: “It’s so important for young people, and especially young carers, from our area to be given the opportunity to have their voices heard. It’s easy to feel like we are ignored by the Government but talking to the Commissioner’s team made us feel like we can influence national policies and make a difference.”
Eastern Ravens Trust supports young carers and children and young people experiencing social exclusion or disadvantage. It has been working in Stockton since 1961.
For more information, visit www.easternravenstrust.org
Thomas Cody, Bailey Shaw, Dana Omran-Liddle
and Keavey White take in the sights of London
Young carers have their say
Treats for the senses Nursery pupils from Layfield Primary School in Yarm have created their very own sensory garden.The three and four year olds have planted various bulbs and herbs within a raised border.Helen Owen, Head Teacher, said: “We have planted lavender, curry plant, thyme, marjoram, chive, sage and rosemary for the children to enjoy but also to encourage more wildlife to visit our school.
“The children like tending to the plants and ensuring they have enough water to grow so that in the future our school cooks Debbie and Jean will be able to use them in their marvellous school lunches.”The sensory garden helps the children to maximise their senses through touch, sight, smell, sounds and eventually taste.
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Your guide to the major events happening across Stockton-on-Tees this spring and summer. Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events for full details.
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PULL OUT AND KEEP
PLAY
Big plans for great experiences
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE
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PULL OUT AND KEEP
PULL OUT AND KEEP
PULL OUT AND KEEP
PULL OUT AND KEEP
Stockton Duathlon FestivalSunday 23 April Stockton Riverside
One of the UK’s biggest and best Duathlons, enjoy a feast of running and cycling for all abilities with the stunning River Tees backdrop.
Stockton CallingSaturday 15 April Stockton Town Centre
A day-long music festival showcasing some of the best original emerging music alongside some established favourites and legends.
Tees RegattaSaturday 20 May River Tees Watersports Centre
This popular and exciting event attracts clubs from across the north competing on the beautiful and picturesque River Tees.
Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle ShowSaturday 24 – Sunday 25 June Preston Park Museum and Grounds
The ever popular Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle show is returning to Preston Park Museum and Grounds once again featuring exciting activities and fun for all the family.
Stockton Cycling FestivalFriday 14 –Sunday 16 July Stockton Town Centre
Now in its seventh year, the Cycling Festival offers a packed programme of exhilarating, inspirational and fun cycling with activities suitable for all ages. For more information and to see stunning highlights from last year – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/cycling
Stockton StagesThursday 20 – Saturday 22 July Stockton Town Centre
This brand new music and comedy festival is coming to Stockton this summer. Stockton Stages will take over a number of venues and welcome a thrilling array of top comedy and music talent.
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ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREPULL OUT AND KEEP
PULL OUT AND KEEP
More than 850 people took part in last year’s thrilling Stockton Duathlon, featuring a healthy mix of experienced athletes and eager newcomers.Among those making their debut was Leeon Poole, 29, from Thornaby and now he is encouraging others to take part in the 2017 event.
Leeon was no stranger to the Borough’s cycle routes and running trails, but he admits the Duathlon posed a new challenge.
Leeon said: “I considered the Sprint race (2km run, 10km bike, 1km run) which is ideal for beginners but as I have been cycling for three years I pushed myself to take on the Standard distance which was a 10km run, 40km cycle finishing with a 5km run.
“The atmosphere and support was incredible. An older guy was encouraging and pushing me along the way which was brilliant.
“I’d definitely recommend it to anyone thinking about it – there’s three distances so you can choose whatever suits you best. It’s a goal to aim for and the event really gives you motivation to exercise and keep your fitness levels up.
“The adrenaline you feel on the day beats any gym routine and it’s a real sense of achievement when you cross that finish line!”
Take on the Duathlon
Stockton Duathlon FestivalSunday 23 April 2017
Enter now at www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlonRUN
CYCLERUN
Leeon Poole training at The Green, Thornaby
River Rat RaceSaturday 19 August Stockton Riverside
Join more than 1000 Rat Racers for our wet ‘n’ wild unique running course, linking together many special water and shore-based activities at truly iconic venues en route.
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Stockton Dragon Boat FestivalSaturday 2 September
The dragons are coming to Stockton! Friends, families, schools, charities and companies are all invited to get racing on the River Tees and raise funds for charity in an adrenaline-fuelled day. No experience is required, all training provided – just be ready to race the dragon! Visit www.stocktondragonboatfestival.co.uk
SIRF17Thursday 3 – Sunday 6 August Stockton High Street
Stockton International Riverside Festival is celebrating its 30th birthday with four days packed with street theatre, circus, dance and music. Make sure you add the dates to your diary and be sure to join us as we
celebrate three decades of SIRF with some amazing shows and make fabulous memories!
Visit www.sirf.co.uk to keep an eye out for updates.
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ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE
See how the garden grows
We’re going on an egg hunt
Play days
Tasty treats in the Victorian Tea Room
Fun on the riverSchool of Adventure
Enjoy the grounds
Farmyard Friends
Go back in time in the Victorian Street
With winter a distant memory and summer just around the corner, now’s the time to visit Preston Park Museum and Grounds.
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Discover the Hall and its treasures, visit the Victorian Street or the Walled Kitchen Garden for a taste of life in the 19th century and let off steam in the adventure play area and grounds.
For full details of all spring activities and events, visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk
TIME TO EXPLORE
Discover fascinating collections
ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE
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It’s all going on in Stockton Town Centre
Welcome to the first Stockton Business Improvement District (BID) pages of Stockton-on-Tees News. Chair of the BID is Janice Auton, founder of Poppys Hairdressing, and in each edition she will use this part of the magazine to keep you up to date with all sorts of interesting events and promotions.“Stockton BID is a new company formed by businesses in Stockton Town Centre to promote the town and help it grow. Getting the ‘yes’ vote for the BID was fantastic news and we got off to a flying start by winning the Great British High Street Rising Star Award – but it didn’t stop there!“Just last month we held a hugely popular Strictly Valentine’s tea dance hosted by Giovani from Strictly Come Dancing and we’ve got all sorts of exciting events coming up so make sure you check out these pages and keep an eye on the website for updates.“And if you haven’t paid Stockton a visit recently why not book one of our town centre tours to see first-hand how we’ve transformed. “With around 2000 parking spaces in the Town Centre and many offering the first hour or two free of charge, it’s never been easier to enjoy everything going on in Stockton Town Centre. To find out more visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk”
Dates for your diary
8 April Chic Vintique market
15 April Stockton Calling
24 April Launch of Town Centre tours
2-4 June 40 years at the Movies
10 June Kapow Market and family fun day
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LIVE IN STOCKTON
Stockton’s reputation as a festival town is well established and continues to grow each year thanks to events like SIRF and the Cycling Festival – but did you know there’s a thriving music scene on your doorstep too?While we’ve all heard of established acts like the Wildcats of Kilkenny - here we take a closer look at some of the next generation making a name for themselves and putting the Borough on the map.
Tom Joshua writes heartfelt folk tunes often featuring big melancholic soundscapes: “There’s nothing superficial about it, the music scene in Stockton is filled with people wanting to support each other. There are loads of diverse acts with a genuine desire to create culture.”
www.facebook.com/tomjoshuamusic
Cattle & Cane, featuring siblings Joe and Helen Hammill from Thornaby, have made a huge impact. Their debut album, Home, sandwiched them between Adele and Arctic Monkeys in the Official Independent Album Chart in its first week of sales.
“We’ve played in Stockton many times and the atmosphere is always electric. Stockton Calling is an ideal platform for emerging bands and you’re guaranteed a receptive crowd – we can’t wait to headline The Georgian Theatre in April”, said Helen.
Joe agreed: “There are also some brilliant promoters working hard to put on special shows in our area like The Kids Are Solid Gold, Tees Music Alliance and Jimmy Beck. We have real pride in where we come from and we’ve been lucky to have such great opportunities here.”
www.cattleandcane.co.uk
Amelia Coburn has been rapidly winning new fans with her unique ukulele style: “Stockton has provided me with countless opportunities, from starting out at The Green Room and Musiclounge to having my own solo shows at ARC.”Andy Johnson manages Amelia, while also performing in local acts The Southmartins and Cherry Head Cherry Heart. He said: “The scene is so strong that people may end up taking for granted what is on their doorstep.“Venues and bands need genuine support so we need people to get out and support us.”Amelia was recently nominated for a BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award, having impressed with the judges with her unique voice and take on classic songs.www.ameliacoburn.co.uk www.cherryheadcherryheart.com
Indie band, Cellar Door, mix dark guitars with a healthy dose of steel and swagger: “Stockton, as a place, has shaped who we are. We rehearse and record at Green Dragon Studios and gigging in Stockton is always a pleasure thanks to the brilliant crowds.”
www.facebook.com/CellarDoorOfficial
ADULTS SERVICES
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It’s not just about borrowing booksHave you been to your local library recently?
They still loan out the latest titles but do so much more too.Here’s just a snapshot of the great things Stockton Borough’s libraries provide all year round. For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraryevents or to learn more about the Public Health Information Library visit www.stockton.gov.uk/healthlibraries
Harry Potter night at Stockton Central Library
Family Fun Day at Yarm Library
Storytime at Thornaby (Riverbank) Library
Knitting Group at Ingleby Barwick Library
Stockton Public Health Information Library
Friday Friends at Roseworth Library Baby and Toddler Group at Norton Library
Comic Book Day at Billingham Library Funky Feet at Fairfield Library
An innovative new home care service is getting to work.
The Council is working in partnership with Five Lamps, a charity which delivers a range of social and financial inclusion services, to establish a new not-for-profit home care service.
Supporting people in the Thornaby and Ingleby Barwick area, Five Lamps Home Care is working as a regulated home care provider for a 12 month pilot period – which will see them provide an effective and safe home care service. The team will carry out duties including personal care, helping service users to dress, wash and eat, and help them get out into the community and enjoy activities.
The purpose of the pilot is to see how a community-based home care provider can link in with existing voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to deliver activities that promote social engagement and support a person’s wellbeing.
For more information about Five Lamps and their other services, visit www.fivelamps.org.uk or contact the charity on 01642 753517.
Men and women over 55 are being encouraged to get more active.Club 55 is an innovative programme offering free sport and physical activity sessions.
Delivered by Tees Active, in collaboration with a wide range of partners, the activities include indoor bowls, archery, indoor curling, tai chi, and Zumba Gold.
Allan McDermott, Sports Academy Manager for Tees Active, said: “Many people have told us just how much Club 55 means to them in terms of getting moving but also the other social and emotional benefits they’ve felt through meeting new people.”
For more information contact Thornaby Pavilion on 01642 760971 or email [email protected]
A similar project has also launched in Stockton. Sporting Chance offers men over 50 the chance to get involved with activities like walking football and gym sessions. For those looking for something more relaxed, reminiscence groups are available.
To learn more, contact Gill Watson on 01642 733915 or 07823 413242.
Ian Mackie, 80, from Hartburn, was shortlisted for a National Dementia Care Award in the ‘Exceptional Contribution by a Person Living with Dementia’ category.
Since his diagnosis, Ian and his wife Mary have shown determination to increase awareness about the condition and to show that it is possible to live well with dementia.
The couple were instrumental in the development of the LiveWell Dementia Hub in Thornaby – Stockton Borough’s ‘one stop shop’ for those living with dementia.
The hub provides a single point of contact for information about dementia and support available locally. It has been recognised nationally, having been shortlisted for the Dementia Innovation of the Year at the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Awards.
For further information about the LiveWell Dementia Hub, email [email protected] or call 01642 527363.
NEW APPROACH TO HOME CARE
Join the club
National recognition for dementia care
The Five Lamps Home Care team
The Club 55 bowling group at Thornaby Pavilion
STRONG COMMUNITIES
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YOUR COUNCIL
Stockton Borough churches are working to support and establish friendships with refugees and asylum seekers living in our area.Stockton Baptist Tabernacle holds a weekly drop-in where people from more than 30 different nations call in to socialise, take part in activities, enjoy refreshments and buy quality second-hand clothes.
Peter Chapman, Church Secretary, said: “A lot of the people we meet have been forced to flee terrible situations. Often they’re leaving behind prestigious jobs and, of course, family and friends.
“As well as the drop-in we provide things like language courses and assistance with Home Office hearings and tribunals – which can be highly emotional and difficult.
“Our work is linked with the Open Door charity, the Red Cross and Justice First. We offer our friendship and it’s been wonderful to see people’s sense of community grow.”
Drop-in sessions are available at the Tabernacle on Mondays between 1pm and 3pm, at Portrack Baptist Church on Fridays between 10.30am and 1pm and at Stockton Parish Church on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1pm and 3pm.
Epilepsy OutlookOur regular “Spotlight On” feature highlights the work of some of the Borough’s voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations carrying out vital work across Stockton-on-Tees.Epilepsy Outlook was established in 1987 to develop support services and promote understanding about the condition.
Understanding the nature and effects of epilepsy is important both for those with the condition and for people who may be affected by someone having a seizure.
Practical support and advice is available for people living with epilepsy and their families to adjust to any lifestyle changes brought about by the condition.
Help with how to record seizures, coping mechanisms and advice about benefits entitlement are all available after an informal one-to-one chat.
The group also helps to provide signposting to other relevant organisations as well as providing support at GP and consultant appointments.
The charity has now extended this unique one-to-one service to cover the Stockton Borough area. Sessions are delivered one day per week at various locations across Stockton-on-Tees. For more information contact Elaine Bartholomew, Outreach Worker, on 07505 541706 or email [email protected]
For further information about Epilepsy Outlook and the support on offer, visit www.epilepsyoutlook.org.uk
SPOTLIGHT ON…
A helping hand
£1.85m
£1.75m
£0.5m£8.1m
£2m£1.7m
Refuse, Recycling and WasteParks
Housing
Grounds Maintenance
Street Cleaning
Street Lighting
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Refuse, Recycling and Waste
Our refuse, recycling and waste services include weekly home refuse collections, recycling collections every fortnight as well as green waste, business waste and bulky waste collections. We empty over 4.4million bins every year!
Street Cleaning
Street cleaning services cover everything from weekly litter picking in residential streets to a mechanical sweeper every four weeks as well as extra cleaning for our main shopping areas after each market. We also carry out weed spraying, strimming overgrown vegetation, clearing becks, removing graffiti and clearing rubbish from public highways, parks and open spaces.
Parks
We manage more than 25 parks and nature reserves which include many play areas, skate parks and all-weather courts for games.
Street Lighting
Our street lighting teams have responsibility for around 28,500 lights across the Borough. They’re also carrying out the programme to replace old lanterns with super-efficient LED lighting. In 2015/16, more than 7,800 lanterns were converted to LEDs and nearly 4,400 lighting columns were replaced with new ones.
Housing
We support owners of empty homes by providing information on maintenance, repairs and give advice on a range of issues including how to access financial support to pay for improvements. We also support residents in crisis situations as well as those settling into the community. We operate a voluntary landlord accreditation scheme, in which landlords sign up to a code of standards and work with the Council to improve property standards in the private rented sector. Our work also covers helping residents who need adaptations making to their homes to help them live independently.
We pride ourselves on being open, honest and fair so in Stockton-on-Tees News we like to give you an overview of how money is spent. In this edition we look at spending within our Environment and Housing services. To find out more, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/thebigpicture
Grounds Maintenance
Services include fortnightly grass cutting, annual hedge and shrub maintenance, tree management, football pitch maintenance and we also carry out burial services.
Environment and Housing £15.9m annual
budget
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Here we bring you our regular update on the consultations being carried out by the Council. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/consultation
Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) updateThe first stage of consultation on SEND provision in the Borough has finished and Cabinet has authorised further work to progress the commissioning of a revised approach so more children and young people can attend a specialist place near to where they live.
Constructive discussions were held with ‘Friends of Early Support Nursery’ and the Council plans to secure specialist nursery provision using the Early Support Nursery in Thornaby as well as inviting a new specialist Free School for the Tees Valley. Detailed proposals will now be worked up and presented to Cabinet this spring.
Local PlanA nine week consultation took place between November 2016 and January 2017 seeking views on the Draft Local Plan which sets out a vision for the future development of the Borough up until 2032. All views received are being considered ahead of the second stage of public consultation on an updated draft in the summer.
For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/localplan
Boundary signsFollowing extensive consultation the Council is installing signs at the Borough’s ceremonial boundaries with County Durham and Yorkshire to recognise that the history, tradition and geography associated with them continues to exist alongside the local authority.
To keep track of all Council led consultations, register with the My Views consultation portal at www.stockton.gov.uk/myviews
We’re here to help...Every year we receive thousands of calls and visits to our customer service centres and we’re always happy to see you.
But did you know many of these services are available on our website? So you can request services when it’s convenient for you, 24 hours a day.
www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline
Councillors met at the end of the last month to agree the budget for the coming financial year and to set the Medium Term Financial Plan up to 2021.
Between 2010/11 and 2019/20 the level of Government funding for the local authority will have reduced by £75 million - a 62 per cent reduction. This comes at a time when demand for services, particularly adults’ social care and children’s services, continues to rise.
To offset this, councillors agreed that Council Tax should be increased by 1.9 per cent and also that the Government social care levy of 3 per cent to contribute towards rising social care costs should be charged. The total increase of 4.9 per cent equates to 87p per week for the majority of residents.
Despite these challenges, through a considered and careful approach to financial planning, the Council is doing all it can to deliver savings and wherever possible protect front-line services, particularly those which impact on the most vulnerable. Meanwhile councillors remain committed to investing in the Borough to ensure it remains a great place to live.
In future editions of Stockton-on-Tees News we will keep you informed about any proposals to change services and you can find out more about how the Council spends its budget at www.stockton.gov.uk/thebigpicture
Setting the budget
YOUR COUNCILYOUR COUNCIL
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Electing your Tees Valley MayorWhat is Tees Valley?The Tees Valley describes the area covering Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.
The five councils have been working in partnership for over 20 years. People don’t generally describe themselves as being from “the Tees Valley”, and the individual identities of the separate towns and communities remain important. But the Tees Valley describes an area that works as a connected economic area. 90% of Tees Valley’s working population have jobs within the area, and 65,000 cross a council boundary to work. So communities across the Tees Valley depend on the success of the area as a whole.
What is the Tees Valley Combined Authority?The Mayor will chair the Combined Authority: a new body, set up by law to lead the economic development of the Tees Valley area. It is a partnership of five authorities, working with the business community and other partners.
By setting up this new body, the Tees Valley is able to deliver powers and responsibilities previously carried out by central government. There are similar bodies in other areas of the country which have secured devolution, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and the West Midlands, who will also be electing a mayor on 4th May.
Does this mean that the individual councils will merge?No. Your local council will still be responsible for delivering local services such as children’s services, social care, refuse collection, libraries, street cleaning etc. The Combined Authority is focused on economic growth of the wider Tees Valley area. Its new powers come from central government, not from the local councils.
Who can vote for the Tees Valley Mayor?All eligible registered electors in Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees will be eligible to vote for the Tees Valley Mayor on 4th May 2017.
Who is standing for the Tees Valley Mayor?It is expected that all major political parties will put forward a candidate, and independent candidates may also put themselves forward. A booklet with more information about the candidates and their manifestos will be sent to eligible registered electors early in April.
Why do we need a Tees Valley Mayor?Local council leaders negotiated a devolution deal with Ministers, to transfer powers, funding and responsibilities from central government to our local area. The government has said that this is only possible if an elected mayor is publicly accountable for decisions; working alongside the existing councils and other partners.
Will having a Tees Valley Mayor cost more?The devolution deal brings in new funding. The direct costs of the Mayor will be met from this additional funding, without any additional cost to local Council Taxpayers. They will be supported by the Tees Valley Combined Authority from within established budgets. The Mayor’s allowance is being established by an independent remuneration panel.
On the 4th of May 2017, residents of Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees will elect a new Mayor for the Tees Valley.
The Tees Valley Mayor will work alongside the five Tees Valley Councils to improve the economy of the area, bring in new investment and create jobs.
The Tees Valley Mayor will have responsibilities and influence over:
Transport• Improve our train services by having more, faster and better trains and stations• Support better bus services• Invest in road and rail infrastructure
More information is available at www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/Mayor
FacebookTeesValleyCA
Linked InTeesValleyCA
Twitter@TeesValleyCA
FacebookTeesValleyCA
Linked InTeesValleyCA
Twitter@TeesValleyCA
FacebookTeesValleyCA
Linked InTeesValleyCA
Twitter@TeesValleyCA
Homes & Communities• Invest in good quality homes.
• Help create successful, vibrant communities
Business Growth & Investment• Support businesses to help them grow• Bring new companies into the area• Revitalise our town centres and industrial areas • Encourage innovation, carbon reduction and new energy
Devolution
• Secure a better deal from central government
• Ensure a strong voice for the Tees Valley
• Make more decisions about our area here, not in London
Skills & Education• Encourage more apprenticeships• Improve education for young people and adults• Help people to secure good quality jobs
Culture & Tourism• Promote Tees Valley as
a great place to Live, Work & Visit
• Invest in our cultural institutions and events
Register to voteIf you have not yet registered to vote please visit www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote or contact Electoral Services at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, on 01642 526196. The deadline for registration is the 13th April, to register we’ll need to know your date of birth and national insurance number.Once registered you will be sent a poll card before 4th May, this will include details of where your polling station is. You do not need to take the poll card with you to vote (unless you are an anonymous elector), but it will help staff. You can only vote at the polling station stated on this card.Why not vote by post?Postal voting is simple and it’s free- If you’re a registered postal voter, your ballot paper will be sent to you from the 18th April and if you haven’t received your postal vote by the 27th April please contact Electoral Services before polling day. You must return it so that it is delivered to your
electoral registration office by 10pm on 4th May in the envelope provided, or at a polling station in your borough on polling day.Not able to vote in person?If you have applied to have someone vote on your behalf (Proxy), make sure that they know which of the candidate/candidates you wish to vote for.If you wish to apply to vote by post or appoint someone you trust to vote on your behalf as your proxy, download a form from www.aboutmyvote.co.uk, complete it fully and return it to Electoral Services, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1LD, or contact Electoral Services on 01642 526196.New applications for a postal vote must be returned to your electoral registration office by 5pm on Tuesday 18 April and new applications for a proxy vote by 5pm on Tuesday 25 April.
YOUR VOTE MATTERS DON’T LOSE IT
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YOUR COUNCIL
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FOCUS ON YOUR AREA
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WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA8 May 2017 Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 12pm – 1pm15 May 2017 Fairfield Library, 12pm – 1pm1 June 2017 Grays Road Institute, 6pm – 7pm12 June 2017 Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 12pm – 1pm 19 June 2017 Fairfield Library, 12pm – 1pm
COUNCILLOR CAROL CLARKTel: 01642 675688 Email: [email protected]
GRANGEFIELD 6pm – 6:30pm23 March 2017 Grangefield Community Centre27 April 2017 Grangefield Community Centre1 June 2017 Grangefield Community Centre
COUNCILLOR STEPHEN RICHARDSONTel: 07929 354541 Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
HARDWICK & SALTERS LANE 17 March 2017 Salters Lane Community Centre, 6pm – 7pm18 March 2017 Hardwick In Partnership, High Newham Road, 11am – 12pm14 April 2017 Salters Lane Community Centre, 6pm – 7pm15 April 2017 Hardwick In Partnership, High Newham Road, 11am – 12pm12 May 2017 Salters Lane Community Centre, 6pm – 7pm13 May 2017 Hardwick In Partnership, High Newham Road,11am – 12pm16 June 2017 Salters Lane Community Centre, 6pm – 7pm17 June 2017 Hardwick In Partnership, High Newham Road,11am – 12pm
COUNCILLOR NIGEL COOKETel: 01642 589442 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR NORMA STEPHENSON OBETel: 01642 675891 Email: [email protected]
HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:45PM3 April 2017 Elmwood Community Centre8 May 2017 Elmwood Community Centre5 June 2017 Elmwood Community CentreCOUNCILLOR LYNN HALLTel: 0782 558 2527 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR MATTHEW VICKERSTel: 0782 558 2514 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6PM – 7PM (Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West)6 April 2017 All Saints C of E Academy10 May 2017 All Saints C of E Academy1June 2017 All Saints C of E AcademyResidents of Maltby & Hilton are welcome at Ingleby Barwick ward surgeries but if unable to attend, can request a meeting with Councillors Corr and Faulks by appointment before Parish Council meetings.
COUNCILLOR GILLIAN CORRTel: 01642 764056 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR KEVIN FAULKSTel: 01642 764874 Email: [email protected]
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST13 April 2017 Maltby Village Hall, High Lane, 7pm – 8pm 12 May 2017 Ingleby Barwick Community Hall, Haresfield Way, 5pm – 6pm8 June 2017 Hilton Village Hall, Main Street, 6:30pm – 7:30pm
COUNCILLOR SALLY ANN WATSONTel: 01642 761543 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0779 501 2445
INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6PM – 7PM (Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East)6 April 2017 All Saints C of E Academy10 May 2017 All Saints C of E Academy1 June 2017 All Saints C of E Academy
COUNCILLOR KEN DIXONTel: 01642 764650 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR DAVID HARRINGTONTel: 01642 764652 Email: [email protected] Skype: david.harrington01642
COUNCILLOR ROSS PATTERSONTel: 01642 764865 Email: [email protected]
MANDALE & VICTORIA14 March 2017 Robert Atkinson Centre, 6:30pm – 7:30pm11 April 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 6:30pm – 7:30pm 13 April 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 10am – 11am9 May 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 6:30pm – 7:30pm11 May 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 10am – 11am8 June 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 10am – 11am13 June 2017 Thornaby Community Hub, 6:30pm – 7:30pm
COUNCILLOR SONIA BAILEYTel: 01642 767942 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0755 754 0159
COUNCILLOR TRACEY STOTT Tel: 01642 674471 Mobile: 07528 014 605 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR PAUL ROWLINGTel: 0755 754 0158 Email: [email protected]
NEWTOWN 6PM – 7PM17 March 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way7 April 2017 Newtown Community Resource Centre, Durham Road21 April 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way5 May 2017 Newtown Community Resource Centre, Durham Road19 May 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way2 June 2017 Newtown Community Resource Centre, Durham Road16 June 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way
COUNCILLOR RACHAEL PROUDTel: 01642 557624 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0792 075 0678
NEWTOWN 6PM – 7PM24 March 2017 St Paul’s Church, Bishopton Road28 April 2017 St Paul’s Church, Bishopton Road12 May 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way 26 May 2017 St Paul’s Church, Bishopton Road9 June 2017 Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, St Johns Way 23 June 2017 St Paul’s Church, Bishopton Road
COUNCILLOR PAUL BAKERTel: 01642 608406 Email: [email protected]
WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREAWARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA
13 March – 30 June 2017 www.stockton.gov.uk/councillors
BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM15 March 2017 Billingham Youth & Community Centre, The Causeway 12 April 2017 Billingham Youth & Community Centre, The Causeway10 May 2017 Billingham Youth & Community Centre, The Causeway7 June 2017 Billingham Youth & Community Centre, The Causeway
COUNCILLOR MRS ANN McCOYTel: 01642 535604 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR BARRY WOODHOUSETel: 01642 371638 Email: [email protected]
BILLINGHAM EAST21 April 2017 New Life Family Centre, Low Grange Avenue, 5pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, Hereford Terrace, 5:45pm – 6:30pm12 May 2017 New Life Family Centre, Low Grange Avenue, 5pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, Hereford Terrace, 5:45pm – 6:30pm9 June 2017 New Life Family Centre, Low Grange Avenue, 5pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, Hereford Terrace, 5:45pm – 6:30pm
COUNCILLOR MICK STOKERTel: 01642 371641 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR EVALINE CUNNINGHAMTel: 01642 532090 Email: [email protected]
BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM – 7:30PM6 April 2017 North Billingham Methodist Church, Marsh House Avenue4 May 2017 High Grange Community Centre, Casson Way 1 June 2017 North Billingham Methodist Church, Marsh House Avenue COUNCILLOR CHRIS BARLOWTel: 01642 561289 Email: [email protected]: 0771 772 7685
COUNCILLOR STEPHEN PARRYTel: 0771 772 7692 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR LAURIANE POVEYTel: 0773 330 7866 Email: [email protected]
BILLINGHAM SOUTH 13 April 2017 St Cuthbert’s Church Hall, 4pm – 5pm11 May 2017 St Cuthbert’s Church Hall, 4pm – 5pm8 June 2017 St Cuthbert’s Church Hall, 4pm – 5pm
COUNCILLOR MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782 Email: [email protected]
BILLINGHAM WEST 6PM – 7PM31 March 2017 Wolviston Court Community Centre28 April 2017 Wolviston Court Community Centre26 May 2017 Wolviston Court Community Centre30 June 2017 Wolviston Court Community Centre
COUNCILLOR MRS HELEN ATKINSONTel: 0782 690 3135 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR CHRIS CLOUGHTel: 0793 264 2793 Email: [email protected]
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)14 March 2017 Elm Tree Community Centre, 6pm - 7pm6 April 2017 Mitre Public House, 6pm – 7pm25 April 2017 Elm Tree Community Centre, 6pm - 7pm18 May 2017 Mitre Public House, 6pm – 7pm6 June 2017 Elm Tree Community Centre, 6pm - 7pm29 June 2017 Mitre Public House, 6pm - 7pm
COUNCILLOR MRS JULIA CHERRETTTel: 01642 785473 Email: [email protected]
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)25 March 2017 Rosedale Care Home, 122 Marske Lane, 11am – 12pm8 May 2017 Elm Tree Community Centre, Elm Tree Avenue, 6pm – 7pm27 May 2017 Rosedale Care Home, 122 Marske Lane, 11am – 12pm5 June 2017 Elm Tree Community Centre, Elm Tree Avenue, 6pm – 7pm24 June 2017 Rosedale Care Home, 122 Marske Lane, 11am – 12pm
COUNCILLOR LISA GRAINGETel: 01642 614522 Email: [email protected]: 0791 758 7617
EAGLESCLIFFE13 March 2017 Trinity Methodist Church, Witham Avenue, 5:30pm – 6:30pm10 April 2017 Trinity Methodist Church, Witham Avenue, 5:30pm - 6:30pm4 May 2017 Egglescliffe Parish Hall, Butts Lane, 4pm – 5pm8 May 2017 Trinity Methodist Church, Witham Avenue, 5:30pm - 6:30pm12 June 2017 Trinity Methodist Church, Witham Avenue, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
COUNCILLOR PHIL DENNISTel: 01642 790916 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR STEFAN HOUGHTONTel: 0776 636 1716 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR LAURA TUNNEYTel: 0792 075 0692 Email: [email protected]
FAIRFIELD 6pm – 6:30pm 13 March 2017 Fairfield Centre for Young People, Old Boys Club, Limbrick Avenue10 April 2017 Fairfield Centre for Young People, Old Boys Club, Limbrick Avenue8 May 2017 Fairfield Centre for Young People, Old Boys Club, Limbrick Avenue 12 June 2017 Fairfield Centre for Young People, Old Boys Club, Limbrick Avenue
COUNCILLOR MAURICE PERRYTel: 01642 586914 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR BILL WOODHEADTel: 01642 584409 Email: [email protected]
GRANGEFIELD13 March 2017 Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 12pm – 1pm20 March 2017 Fairfield Library,12pm – 1pm6 April 2017 Grays Road Institute, 6pm – 7pm10 April 2017 Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 12pm – 1pm24 April 2017 Fairfield Library, 12pm – 1pm4 May 2017 Grays Road Institute, 6pm – 7pm
13 March – 30 June 2017 www.stockton.gov.uk/councillors
WHAT’S ONWHAT’S ON
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WHAT’S ONA look at what’s going on across Stockton-on-Tees and the Tees Valley from April 2017.
This is just a taster so for more information about these events and for a full list go to www.stockton.gov.uk/eventsThe events listed are subject to change. We reserve the right to alter or cancel any event.
APRIL
United Voices Women’s ChoirDate: Every Friday throughout the yearTime: 9.45amLocation: ARC, StocktonJoin this community funded women’s choir. New members are always welcome. To find out more visit www.facebook.com/UnitedVoicesStockton
West Side StoryDate: Tuesday 4 April – Saturday 8 AprilTime: 7.30pm (Saturday matinee, 2pm)Location: The Princess Alexandra Auditorium, YarmTickets cost £16 for adults and £12 for children (under 14). To book call the Darlington Operatic Society’s ticket hotline on 01325 244659 or visit www.thepaaonline.org
Chic Vintique MarketDate: Saturday 8 AprilTime: 10am - 4pmLocation: Stockton High StreetVintage and retro clothes, collectables, quality gifts and all things gorgeous are the name of the game at the Chic Vintique Market.For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
Make your own egg-xtra special Easter & spring buntingDate: Tuesday 11 AprilTime: 1pm - 3pmLocation: Stockton Central LibraryThis spring time create some egg-xtra special bunting to take home. Drop-in session suitable for ages 5-11 years.For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
Meet the Easter BunnyDate: Wednesday 12 AprilTime: 2.30pm - 3.30pmLocation: Fairfield LibraryEaster crafts including Easter bunnies and chicks. Suitable for ages 4-12 years. Booking essential. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
WHAT’S ONWARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA
NORTHERN PARISHES 6:30PM – 7PM 13 April 2017 Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles4 May 2017 Wolviston Village Hall8 June 2017 Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles
COUNCILLOR JOHN GARDNERTel: 01740 645357 Email: [email protected]
NORTON NORTH 6PM - 7PM15 March 2017 Frederick Nattrass Children’s Centre12 April 2017 Norton North Community & Resource Centre10 May 2017 Norton Library14 June 2017 Frederick Nattrass Children’s Centre
COUNCILLOR STEVE NELSONTel: 01642 534417 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR MRS KATHRYN NELSONTel: 01642 534417 Email: [email protected]
NORTON SOUTH 5PM – 6PM21 March 2017 Albany Resouce Centre4 April 2017 Albany Resource Centre18 April 2017 Dance Academy, Edgar Street25 May 2017 Dance Academy, Edgar Street6 June 2017 Albany Resource Centre20 June 2017 Dance Academy, Edgar Street
COUNCILLOR BOB COOKTel: 01642 890058 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR EILEEN JOHNSONTel: 01642 673952 Email: [email protected]
NORTON WEST 3 April 2017 Glebe Community Centre, Hanover Parade, 10am – 11:30am4 April 2017 St Mary’s (Forge) Meeting Room, Norton Green, 5pm – 6pmNorton Cricket Club, 6:15pm – 7pm8 May 2017 The Centenary, Fulthorpe Road, Norton, 10am – 11:30am9 May 2017 St Mary’s (Forge) Meeting Room, Norton Green, 5pm – 6pm Norton Cricket Club, 6:15 – 7:00pm5 June 2017 Glebe Community Centre, Hanover Parade, 10am – 11:30am6 June 2017 St Mary’s (Forge) Meeting Room, Norton Green, 5 – 6pmNorton Cricket Club, 6:15pm – 7pm
COUNCILLOR DAVID WILBURNTel: 01642 532517 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR NORMA WILBURNTel: 01642 532517 Email: [email protected]
PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE 6PM – 7PM16 March 2017 Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, Norfolk Street6 April 2017 Lighthouse Centre, 34 Yarm Road20 April 2017 Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, Norfolk Street4 May 2017 Lighthouse Centre, 34 Yarm Road18 May 2017 Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, Norfolk Street1 June 2017 Lighthouse Centre, 34 Yarm Road15 June 2017 Oxbridge Christian Fellowship, Norfolk Street
COUNCILLOR MOHAMMED JAVEDTel: 01642 602420 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR ALLAN MITCHELLTel:07833 234043 Email: [email protected]
ROSEWORTH 5:30PM – 6:30PM 13 March 2017 Kiora Hall, Ragpath Lane10 April 2017 Redhill Children’s Centre, Redhill Road8 May 2017 Kiora Hall, Ragpath Lane12 June 2017 Redhill Children’s Centre, Redhill Road
COUNCILLOR JIM BEALLTel: 01642 871759 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR MISS BARBARA INMANTel: 01642 586564 Email: [email protected]
STAINSBY HILL 5PM – 6PM13 March 2017 South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre24 April 2017 South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre22 May 2017 South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre26 June 2017 South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre
COUNCILLOR DERRICK BROWNTel: 01642 751028 Email: [email protected]
STAINSBY HILL18 March 2017 Thornaby Pavilion, 11am – 12pm12 April 2017 Thornaby Pavilion, 11am – 12pm18 May 2017 South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre, 6pm - 7pm17 June 2017 Thornaby Pavilion, 11am – 12pm
COUNCILLOR MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEYTel: 01642 604176 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0782 558 2518
STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6PM21 March 2017 Ewbank Community Centre, Ewbank Drive4 April 2017 The Willows Centre, Northport Road18 April 2017 Ewbank Community Centre, Ewbank Drive2 May 2017 The Willows Centre, Northport Road16 May 2017 Ewbank Community Centre, Ewbank Drive6 June 2017 The Willows Centre, Northport Road20 June 2017 Ewbank Community Centre, Ewbank Drive
COUNCILLOR DI HEWITT Tel: 0782 452 9681 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR PAUL KIRTONTel: 01642 559331 Email: [email protected]
VILLAGE 5PM – 6PM13 March 2017 The Griffin Pub, Bader Avenue11 April 2017 The Griffin Pub, Bader Avenue9 May 2017 The Griffin Pub, Bader Avenue13 June 2017 The Griffin Pub, Bader Avenue
COUNCILLOR IAN DALGARNOTel: 01642 882985 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR MICK MOORETel: 01642 764381 Email: [email protected]
WESTERN PARISHES 7PM – 8PM7 April 2017 Stillington Community Centre, Lowson Street, Stillington 5 May 2017 The Wilson Centre, Darlington Road, Long Newton 2 June 2017 The Chapel School Room, Carlton
COUNCILLOR ANDREW STEPHENSONTel: 0778 529 3416 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
YARM 6PM – 7PM21 March 2017 Kirklevington Primary School 4 April 2017 Kirklevington Primary School8 May 2017 Challoner House 16 May 2017 Kirklevington Primary School20 June 2017 Kirklevington Primary School
COUNCILLOR ELSI HAMPTONTel: 01642 783836 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0782 558 2517
COUNCILLOR BEN HOUCHENTel: 01642 788 784 Email: [email protected]
COUNCILLOR JULIA WHITEHILLTel: 01642 788187 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0788 183 1339
WHAT’S ONWHAT’S ON
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WHAT’S ON
Stockton CallingDate: Saturday 15 April Time: VariousLocation: Stockton Town CentreStockton Calling is a daylong music festival which takes place across an array of venues. The festival will showcase some of the best original emerging music alongside some established favourites and music legends. For more information visit www.stocktoncalling.co.uk
Professor Lord Robert Winston: Modifying humans – where does genetics stop? Date: Thursday 20 AprilTime: 7.30pmLocation: The Princess Alexandra Auditorium, YarmHistory shows that humans are obsessed with their genes. Does the sequencing of the human genome really herald a new opportunity for medicine or is there a darker side that we ignore? Tickets cost £17. To book visit www.thepaaonline.org
World Book Night 2017: Bannocks and BloodDate: Saturday 22 AprilTime: 4pm - 6pmLocation: Stockton Central LibraryA murder mystery event to celebrate 30 years of publishing and 30 books by Ann Cleeves – bestselling crime writer of Vera and Shetland fame. If you enjoy Agatha Christie come along and try your hand at solving the murder and at the same time enjoy a Shetland Tea. Tickets £3 each, available from Stockton Central Library – call 01642 526521. Booking essential. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
Stockton Duathlon FestivalDate: Sunday 23 April Time: From 9amLocation: Stockton RiversideRecognised as one of the UK’s biggest and best Duathlons, the Stockton Duathlon Festival sees hundreds of participants run and cycle around this unique and fully closed town centre road circuit, against the stunning backdrop of the River Tees. Now in its 5th year, it returns on Sunday 23 April 2017 with a feast of running and cycling suitable for all abilities, from beginners to elite athletes. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon
MAY
Local & Community History Month: Preserve Your PastDate: May 2017Time: VariousLocation: Stockton Reference LibraryStockton Borough libraries are offering to “Preserve Your Past”. If you have old photographs, letters, diaries, video or audio recordings lurking in the attic, shed, garage or cupboard, come along to one of the digitization workshops. Contact Stockton Reference Library on 01642 528079 in the first instance to find out where and when these workshops will be held during May 2017 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
Retro MarketDate: Saturday 6 MayTime: 10am - 4pmLocation: Stockton High StreetExperience a blast from the past with this retro themed specialist market offering goods and memorabilia from the 1950s - 1980s.For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
Free Comic Book DayDate: Saturday 6 MayTime: 10am - 4pmLocation: Billingham Library, Fairfield Library, Ingleby
Barwick Library, Norton Library, Stockton Central Library, Thornaby Central Library
Pow! Zap! Bam! Celebrate and discover the amazing world of comic books on Free Comic Book Day. Free comic books available at your local library while stocks last. Comics suitable for children and young people of all ages.For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
Tees RegattaDate: Saturday 20 MayTime: 8.15am – 7.30pmLocation: River Tees Watersports CentreThis popular and exciting event attracts clubs from across the north competing on the beautiful and picturesque River Tees.For more information visit www.teesrowingclub.co.uk
Kapow Market and Family Fun DayDate: Saturday 10 JuneTime: 10am - 4pmLocation: Stockton High StreetThis popular event returns to bring a host of specialist traders selling a range of sci-fi, TV and film related toys, action figures and collectables together in the High Street marquee.There will also be a chance to meet some well-known characters with a series of special events taking place across the town centre. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
There’s lots more going on at your local arts and entertainment venues – simply visit their websites or call:ARC visit www.arconline.co.uk tel 01642 525199Billingham Forum visit www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk tel 01642 552663Georgian Theatre visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk tel 01642 674115
For more information on all events:Like us on Facebook facebook.com/stocktoncouncilFollow us on Twitter @stocktoncouncilwww.sirf.co.ukwww.stockton.gov.uk/events
To plan your next trip: visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk
/prestonparkmuseum
@pparkmuseum
