Stockton News March/April 2011

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The community magazine of Stockton Borough CouncilMarch/April 2011

Arts, Culture and Leisure 32

Strong Communities 26

contentsMarch/April 2011

Stockton News is published by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and distributed to households across the Borough free of charge. Editor: Vince Rutland, Deputy Editor: Jacky Stevely. To contact the editorial team or if you have not received a copy please call (01642) 526098 or e-mail [email protected]

It 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 Unit and designed by Bridge Design Group. Pictures courtesy of the Evening Gazette, Peter Mernagh, Gary Walsh, Gilmar Ribeiro and Dave Charnley. Main front cover picture - Billingham Forum - by Adam Laurensen of Lightwave Studios. Top left - inside The Globe Theatre. Top right - Tees Barrage White Water Course.

There is an audio version of Stockton News. Please call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or e-mail [email protected]

to Stockton NewsWelcomeUse the colour coding system to make finding what you’re interested in even easier. Here are some of the highlights...

News Round Up 2

Economic Regeneration and Transport 4

Environment and Housing 14

Community Safety 28

Children and Young People 18

Adults Services 13

Health and Wellbeing 24

Your Council 39

Focus On Your Area 40

What’s On 44

Investment in our townsPages 6-7

See What’s in store for

Stockton Pages 9-11

Keeping music livePage 35

News Round UpnewsSto

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Neil SchneiderChief Executive, Stockton Borough Council

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This issue of Stockton News sets out how we are continuing to deal with the challenges of significant funding cuts and our approach to making £26m of savings by 2014. The Council this month agreed a budget that will reduce our spending by £14.5m over the coming year, but at the same time, includes a one-year freeze on Council Tax which we hope will be welcomed by residents.

We recognise that the impact of these budget reductions are starting to be felt now – both in the services we offer but also on our staff. It will be a very difficult time for people and we are doing all we can to support those employees affected and also to look at how we can protect, as far as is possible, front-line services.

One example of this is in our £1.9m investment in Stockton Central Library. By bringing our customer service centres together under one roof within the new library we hope to make significant efficiencies in the longer-term but also improve the services on offer – with investment in new books, IT facilities and providing our full range of advice and support within a quality environment.

We have planned wisely in order to progress a number of key projects like the library that will benefit our residents and build confidence and pride in our Borough.

Preston Hall Museum and Park is another scheme well underway. A major refurbishment with improvements to the Victorian Street, the Ballroom and the play area, it will enhance the experience and enjoyment of the Hall for all.

Also nearing completion is the impressive Billingham Forum and White Water Course which will be superb new facilities for residents and attract countless new visitors to our Borough.

And our ambitious plans to transform Stockton High Street are laid out in a new Town Centre Prospectus that aims to bring new retailers, business and shoppers into Stockton.

We need to build on the excellent news that the Globe Theatre is to be restored to provide a 2,500 seat venue by December 2012 to secure a thriving future for the High Street which will benefit the entire Borough.

This issue also includes our regular events guide highlighting the many festivals we can look forward to in the months ahead and which are so important in making Stockton a vibrant, exciting and welcoming place to live, work, shop and visit.

It’s just weeks away to the re-opening of the iconic Billingham Forum after its ambitious multi-million pound refurbishment.

Construction work on the £18.5 million scheme is due for completion on May 9, when Tees Active will move back in to prepare for its re-opening the following month.

Stockton Council and contractors Morgan Sindall have worked together on the ambitious regeneration of the original 1960s centre to transform it into a state-of-the-art leisure and theatre facility for future generations to enjoy.

The new look centre includes:• Aswimmingpool(6x25m)withthelearnerpoolandan

additional training pool. Refurbished changing rooms, toilets and spectator areas

• Theextendedgymwillofferanadditional30healthand fitness stations making 70 in total, with improved changing facilities and a new dance studio

• Structuralimprovementstothetheatreareaandenhanced entrance and hospitality areas

• Theicerinkwillhaveanewicepadandupgradedspectator area, toilets, and skate hire distribution point and changing facilities

• Improvementstothetwolaneindoorbowlscourt,fourcourt sports hall and two squash courts

• Creationofamorestylishandenhancedreceptionareawith new central café in a glazed atrium to allow visitors to relax and enjoy their surroundings which include bespoke art works in a dedicated exhibition space

• Achildren’splaybarnpluscateringandfunctionroom

Stockton Council has invested in further measures to reduce the carbon footprint of the building, including an advanced heating control system. Together, the improvements will increase the lifespan of the building from the original 25 years to30years.

Welcome to the Forum

Page 3Stockton News March / April 2011

‘Iconic’ Globe is set for revival

Where thousands once flocked to see the Beatles, Shadows, Rolling Stones and others, top bands and other entertainers will again thrill audiences by late 2012, if all goes to plan.

Stockton-based Jomast Developments Ltd has begun The Globe’s£4millionrestorationwhichwillreturnittoits1930ssplendour. Its 2,500 capacity will make it the largest indoor auditorium between Leeds and Newcastle.

A key part of Stockton Council’s regeneration of the High Street, The Globe will become a cultural and entertainment hub for the town. The Council and Jomast will work closely on restoring the historic features of the Grade II-listed building.

Theprojectwillcreate23permanentand72constructionjobsand attract around 82,500 visitors a year, spending £2.5 million inthetowncentretosupportupto130extralocaljobs.Itwillinclude:

• Amainauditoriumwithaboxoffice,barandapproximately 675 seats or space for 1,700 standing.

• Abalconywith808seatsandbar.• Acafébar,VIPareaandboxofficeinanadjacentHigh

Street property.• Dressingroomsandbackstagefacilities.

Jomast Managing Director Stuart Monk (pictured below) said: “I am very excited at the prospect of seeing the Globe regain its place as a leading live entertainment venue for the North East region.

“Jomast and Stockton Council worked closely together to consider various options to secure its future. The current popularity of live music and a massive 7.5 million people, living within two hours’ drive, clearly made restoration as a performance venue the best way forward.

“I would like to thank the Council for its support, without which this scheme could not have gone ahead. They clearly recognise its importance to the town centre economy and the opportunity it offers.

“Our initial response from operators and event bookers has been very positive.”

Richard Poundford, the Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said the project would boost Stockton’s town centre. “The Globe’s return will develop the evening economy and create jobs. We’ve already received interest from people with business ideas for investing in nearby premises.

“Entertainment has moved on since The Globe closed, with live music and comedy now bigger business than ever. Its size means it can host the biggest names and draw people from far and wide.”

Sign up todayThe Council is asking anyone with memories, old programmes or other artefacts, or who would like to hear more about the project to register on its website. This has already attracted messages from as far afield as Nova Scotia, Canada, from a man who visited The Globe as a child. Even the London Philharmonic Orchestra – who gave the final concert – has been in contact, wanting to get involved.

For details of the restoration, to send memories or details of memorabilia, or to sign up for a quarterly email newsletter, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/globe

Stockton’s Globe Theatre is to return as a top North East stage venue for music, comedy and other events.

Builtin1935,TheGlobe

was one of Britain’s biggest

theatres, presenting music,

cinema, variety theatre,

ballet, an annual pantomime

and even ice shows.

The Beatles played here

on22November1963,the

day President Kennedy was

assassinated. Up to the

1970s, bands such as Mud, Showaddywaddy and The Bay City

Rollers performed here.

Cliff Richard and the Shadows composed ‘Stars Fell on Stockton’

and the music for the movie ‘Summer Holiday’ whilst starring in

pantomime at The Globe.

Status Quo were The Globe’s final rock band in December 1974,

followed soon after by the London Philharmonic Orchestra in

early 1975. It closed in 1996 after two decades as a bingo hall.

www.stockton.gov.uk

Economic Regeneration and TransportnewsSto

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If you want help, information or advice about starting or developing your own business call Stockton Council’s Business Development team on (01642) 528384.

Local supply teaching agency School House Recruitment Ltd recruits and trains supply teachers and offers them up-to-date training in line with Government legislation. Supply teachers don’t necessarily get the chance to attend the training offered to permanent teaching staff and School House offers important professional development. To find out more callClaireMooreon(01642)[email protected]

Mike Lawson, Director of Dawn to Dusk Solar Solutions, deals with all manner of solar powered installations. Mike also has more than 40 years experience in electrical installations and now his services include the surveying and installation of solar power systems and

photovoltaic systems. His company can offer various solutions for different roofs including ensuring they are structurally sound and strong enough to take the weight, as well as dealing with planning permission issues and listed buildings. To find our more call (01642) 345125,visitwww.dawntodusksolar.com or email [email protected]

Information technology (IT) experts Jamie Allinson and John Davison of AD Network Solutions deal with all things IT. Their consultant and management company covers businesses using large network systems as well as home users. Each can benefit from their wide knowledge and expertise as they can install, manage and solve IT problems. Their maxim ‘if you find it a headache, throw away the medication’ is surefooted as they’ll come to the rescue. Their growing and impressive business customer base includes multi-award winning hairdressers Hooker and Young, Future Harvest Developments (Europe) Ltd and Hawkes Fire. To find out more visit www.ADnetworksolutions.co.uk email [email protected](01642)345288.

Busy businesses...Deep in the heart of Stockton’s Brunswick Street is Stockton Business Centre, a hive of industry housing around 60 small to medium size businesses. Here we give you a flavour of the diverse assortment of enterprises and entrepreneurs working and creating local jobs. If you would like to find out more about any

of the businesses or are thinking of starting up yourself, call Tony Sedgewick on (01642) 527933 or email [email protected]


If you want help, information or advice about starting or developing your own business call Stockton Council’s Business Development team on (01642) 528384.

Anyone can pop into Unit 9 to find Café Hardys, the brainchild of Kathryn Hardy. She offers homemade food from breakfast and lunch to afternoon tea including vegetarian meals. Kathryn also supports local businesses by using their meat, eggs, fruit and vegetables. She offers events catering for some of the region’s big organisations

and it’s also an ideal venue for small gatherings, private lunches, buffets and evening meals. Kathryn also runs Much Ado About Muffins creating wedding cakes, cupcake towers, celebration cakes and catering. To findoutmorecallCaféHardyson(01642)345116andMuchAdoAboutMuffinson07717138186orvisitwww.muchadoaboutmuffins.co.uk or email [email protected]

Nurses and domicilliary care agency Adventus Care is committed to providing clients with qualified, experienced and reliable nurses, carers and support workers. This means the company has an informed and insightful understanding and practical knowledge of their individual clients’ needs and helps its clients to lead independent lives wherever possible. To find out more call (01642)[email protected]

Garry Smith of Parlour Furniture has no qualms about saying being a coal miner with a mid-life crisis is what gave him the drive to become a furniture maker. He studied cabinet making and wood machining at London Guildhall University, followed by a BA (Hons) in Furniture Design

and Fine Craftsmanship. He now offers a bespoke service covering a wide range of contemporary designs and can create custom-tailored storage solutions unique to clients and their homes. To see some of Garry’s work or to find out more visit www.parlourfurniture.comorcall07738658768 or email [email protected]

Homefuels Direct Ltd specialise is supplying home heating oil and other fuels, lubricants and also provide boiler servicing across the UK. The business was formed in 2008 and is growing thanks to the focus on customer service with customers’ needs at the forefront of everything the company does. The company operates 24 hours, which means customers can order online 24/7. To find out more email [email protected] or call (01642) 700725.

www.facebook.com/stocktoncouncil


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Stockton’s new Enterprise Arcade is now open for business in the former Burton’s Store at 147 Stockton High Street.

It is currently helping five start-up businesses to start trading including DW Clothing, selling men’s designer wear; Embellish, offering hair accessories and jewellery; Hobbies R Uz, selling remote

control crafts and accessories; Chocs Away, offering handmade chocolate and sweets; and Victoria Jackson Renovated Furniture which provides furniture pieces made from recycled materials.

The arcade will remain open for six months to encourage these new businesses to gain a foothold. Pictured are staff from Hobbies R Uz.

Investment in our townsYarm, to the south of the Borough, running alongside the River Tees, continues to be a thriving and successful shopping area with a variety of individual and independent shops and was previously named in 2007 as the BBC’s best High Street as voted by their breakfast viewers.

Thornaby town centre underwent a transformation through a ‘whole sale’ arrangement whereby the developers acquired all properties which allowed the whole of the town centre to be regenerated. The centre is very well supported by shoppers, where Thornaby residents have a shopping centre they can be proud of.

In Billingham, under a similar whole sale arrangement, a Master Plan for the regeneration by developers Stockland is under way. Planning permission for a 14,000 sq ft foodstore,

next to the Forum was granted in January, and B & M will be new tenants in

the town centre occupying the former Kwik Save store. Work is underway to renovate and fit out

the store with a view to opening in late spring. Planning permission was also given for new, temporary public

toilets in West Precinct to replace the existing ones in the town square where work will begin on their renovation

in April. Not forgetting the £18.5 million refurbishment of the Grade II listed Forum.

Moving on to Stockton Town Centre - on pages 9 – 11 we show the proposals to support its future, with a

glimpse of things to come.

Open for businessThis familiar eyesore building of the old Tristar Neasham garage site at Thornaby is now razed to the ground following planning permission granted to demolish it. Stockton Council has been working with the owners, Midland Investments, for a number of years to clear the site. Planning permission has been granted for a temporary car park on the site.

Razed to the ground

All corners of the Borough are benefitting from improvements to facilities and amenities to help create jobs for local people where businesses are supported and encouraged to prosper.


The redeveloped £4.6m Tees Barrage – soon to be one of the world’s most energy efficient whitewater courses – has reused more than 5,000 tonnes of material from the original course.

Concrete reclaimed from the site is being used to build roads both for the construction traffic and for public use once the course complete.

GiantArchimedesscrews,13metreslongandweighing30tonneseach, are capable of pumping four tonnes of water per second around the course.

In January fascinating pieces of local information, collected by schoolchildren from Thornaby’s Village Primary School and including photographs and drawings of the new course, were buried deep underground for future generations to discover.

The course is expected to attract more than 20,000 people every year, including elite athletes from across the globe as the course fulfils its potential to be a 2012 pre-games training camp. Reconstruction should be completed by the summer.

The sound of rushing water!

Village Primary pupils (l – r) Sophie Lunn, Paige Hunter, Chris Peacock, Megan Lane, Craig Harkins, Nathan Neale

STOP PRESS: Stockton Council is offering local businesses help to maximise their trading opportunities, especially during the various festivals held in the town when there is high footfall. A new Media Pack is available containing media contact details and support to help increase business profiles and sales. If you would like to know more call James Glancey, Town Centre Manageror(01642)526023or email [email protected]

www.twitter.com/stocktoncouncil

Investment in our towns

As Stockton News was going to print the first phase of the new Northshore development in Stockton was due to begin following the completion of funding and legal agreements between the Homes and Communities Agency and the developers Muse and Lovell.

As part of the wider regeneration of Stockton’s riverside Phase One will comprise a 50 unit residential scheme following the high profile international design competition by the Royal Institution of British Architecture to create innovative, high quality family housing.

The houses will be unlike any other in the area, challenging traditional housing style and including exciting features such as roof terraces with views of the River Tees.

They will be high quality two, three and four bedroom terraces and semi detached homes, cleverly designed to have an in-built capacity for extension offering sustainable housing for the future needs of occupants.

This first phase will kick-start the wider multi-million pound Northshore scheme which could eventually see 100s of homes, offices, retail, leisure and potential new facilities for Durham University whilst creating jobs.

The first show home should be ready for people to visit in November.

Ready to go New shop: Shoppers may remember the Ethel Austin shop in Castlegate Centre which unfortunately closed. As Stockton News was going to print - life was being breathed into the premises with a new Life and Style shop – offering shoppers more choice in the town. John Clift, Manager of Castlegate Shopping Centre, said: “Here at Castlegate we are very pleased about our situation with most of our shops fully let.”


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Stockton Borough businesses are being encouraged to take on an apprentice.

Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve service is working with the National Apprenticeship Service, the Evening Gazette and the Journal to highlight the positive impact apprentices are having on businesses across the area.

Here we see how apprenticeships are benefitting local employers.

Apprentice carves joinery career

Calum Stamper, 18, an apprentice with Chris Pink Joinery is studying towards a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Bench Joinery.

Owner, Chris Pink said: “Calum’s skills are having a significant impact and mean I can take on more work.

“I’ll offer Calum a job once he has completed the Level 2 qualification. I’m also keen to help him develop further throughtheadvancedLevel3qualificationandwouldliketoemploy another apprentice in the future.”

Calum said: “I enjoyed joinery at school but college wasn’t for me.

“Tees Achieve assessed me and suggested pursuing a NVQ while working for Chris Pink. I’m gaining the practical skills I’ll need for a long-term career while also earning money.”

Chris and Calum’s work is available to view at www.pinkjoinery.com

Nursery nurtures apprenticeLauren Higgin, 16, from Thornaby began her training placement alongside qualified staff at Rosedene Nursery in Yarm last September. She quickly adapted to her role and two months later she was employed by the nursery.

Nursery Manager, Samantha Harvey said: “I’m delighted with the way Lauren has developed and become a valued member of the team.

“She has all the attributes to make a good nursery nurse. We are very happy to see Lauren is enjoying her employment and we’relookingforwardtosupportingherthroughtheLevel3qualification.”

Lauren finds it incredibly worthwhile: “I’ve always wanted to work with children but after I finished school I didn’t want to go to college because I wanted to have a more hands-on experience while gaining a qualification.”

From apprentice to managerJill was 18 when she began a Business Administration Modern Apprenticeship. “I tried college but didn’t see the benefit of sitting in a classroom,” she said. “I thought it would be more worthwhile to gain experience and a recognised qualification in a workplace.”Jill’s first placement was at a Thornaby welding distributer where she was later promoted to sales and gained her Level 2 qualification.

In 2005 Jill started working for Able UK and achieved her Level3AdvancedBusinessApprenticeship.

She started as an Invoice Clerk but soon gained promotion through various roles before securing her current position as HR manager.

Jill’s Manager at Able UK is Gilvray MacNiven, he said: “I would definitely encourage other local businesses to take on an apprentice. The skills Jill gained through her apprenticeship journey have really benefitted us.”

Businesses who can offer an apprenticeship should contact (01642) 528262 or (01642) 528112 or email [email protected]

500 apprenticeships in 100 days

Page 9Stockton News March / April 2011www.stockton.gov.uk

See what’s in store for Stockton

The Council is aiming to revive the fortunes of the famous high-street – which is the widest in the country – with a series of major regeneration schemes that will encourage more people to visit the town and to stay longer - day and night – by opening up new spaces and links to the river for shoppers, providing easier access and parking and by building on its heritage and cultural assets.

The30-pageProspectuswhichisdesignedtosellthebenefits of the High Street to potential investors, developers and also local people includes plans to

introduce an expansive plaza area ‘Infinity View’ that will open up the pedestrian area to dramatic views of the iconic Infinity Bridge, River Tees, riverside and dedicated spaces for street performance and the reintroduction of short-stay car parking at both the Northern and Southern ends of the high street.

In addition to these new features, the Prospectus also sets out how the Council will build on existing assets in the town centre including investment into the Historic Heritage Quarter of the High Street to repair and restore the original features of up to 16 historic buildings and the refurbishment of The Globe Theatre into a 2,500 capacity music venue. The Council’s aim is to attract private sector investment far exceeding the £20 million identified in the five year Prospectus Programme.

Stockton Council has launched an ambitious development prospectus for Stockton Town Centre that sets out a five year investment programme to transform the high street and attract more retailers, businesses and shoppers to the town.


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The most radical of the plans set out in the

Prospectus will be the creation of a new area in the High Street called ‘Infinity View’. This will be a high quality plaza that will connect the High Street to the riverside and open up views and access to the river and Infinity Bridge through the redevelopment of Lindsay House and the Bishop Street Car Park to the rear.

Improvements to the popular Castlegate shopping centre also feature in the Prospectus. John Clift, manager of Castlegate Centre said: “For the High Street to move forward and improve its future prospects it needs businesses, developers and the Council to work together towards a single vision. This document provides that vision.

“While the Centre is almost 99 per cent let and attracts more than ten million shoppers a year we hope that improvements such as the refurbishment of the internal market hall will allow us to exceed that.”

Rob Gildersleeve, manager of the Wellington Square shopping centre in the High Street added: “Stockton Town Centre, with the High Street at its heart, has so much to offer as the country’s widest high street, a historic 700-year-old market and some wonderful character buildings.

“We need to harness its old charms and combine them with Stockton’s world renowned reputation for performing arts to create a town centre that people want to come to again and again.”

Smaller retailers will also benefit from the proposals in the document with the creation of a new high quality public square, with landscaped seating and planting aiming to attract shoppers to stay longer in the town.

Martin Shipley and Brian Burr are the owners of the Who Ray gifts and memorabilia shop in Silver Street. They said: “The Council has been very successful in bringing shoppers into the High Street through the events and festivals it runs. The Christmas Festival this year was excellent and drew people in from miles around as they knew that were getting something different and a bit special. This plan would

hopefully mean that people were able to get something different all-year-around.”

Recognising the historic significance of markets to Stockton, also planned for the area South of the historic Town Hall is a redesigned dedicated market place for the famous Stockton Market which has been staged every Wednesday

and Saturday for 700 years. This will be complemented throughout the year with a range of specialist markets ranging from continental foods, to antiques and farmers’ markets.

Annabel Turpin, chief executive of ARC added: “Stockton is well-known for its commitment to culture, arts and events with our fantastic Stockton International Riverside Festival

(SIRF) famous around the world.


“Stockton Town Centre, with the High Street at its heart, has so much to offer as the

country’s widest high street”

Page 11Stockton News March / April 2011www.facebook.com/stocktoncouncil

These plans take full advantage of the size and scale of the High Street to transform it into a dramatic back-drop for SIRF and our other annual events, building the public realm improvements around these spaces.”

While the prospectus maps out investments planned over the next five years, many of the improvements will be made in the coming year, including the £1.9m refurbishment of the Stockton Central Library and the £4m transformation of the famous Globe Theatre. Stuart Monk, managing director of Jomast, the company behind the Globe refurbishment, said: “We are making a significant investment in returning this wonderful theatre back to its former glory and so it is incredibly encouraging that at the same time the Council is making major improvements to the area around the Globe and beyond. By linking it to a good retail offer and building on a theme of arts and culture it can only enhance the prospects for the Globe.”

Improvements to housing, transport and parking in Stockton High Street are also outlined in the Town Centre Prospectus which will be open to public view from 10–31March.

Extensive consultation took place in a shop unit in Stockton TownCentreforthreeweeksuntilMarch31.Allcommentsare still welcome either via the forms made available in the unit, Twitter, Facebook or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktontowncentre

What’s it all about:• OpeningupInfinityViewtoconnecttheHighStreet

with the River Tees • CreatingadedicatedMarketPlaceforour700-year-old

market and extra specialist markets throughout the year • Focusonperformances,includingArcandTheGlobe,

with dedicated performance spaces for SIRF and other events

• InvestmentinheritagebuildingsandtheCulturalQuarter

• Reintroductionofon-streetparkingatbothendsoftheHigh Street

• Anattractivetownenvironmentforpeopletoenjoyattheir leisure



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No matter what the season, if your garden could do with a makeover then a consultation with Shelley Currie could show you a flavour of what it could look like with a new design.

30-year-oldShelleyhasastringoftalentswhich involve redesigning gardens and carrying out the work – from clearing, paving, patios, decking, lawns and turfing, fencing, pergolas and gazebos and planting to name but a few.

Shelley’s background took in art and textiles as well as fashion design but she has found her niche working in the outdoors.

As a youngster she always helped out with DIY at home and, with some self taught skills and knowledge from her dad who used to work in a garden centre, she launched Spicy Frog with business support advice and some financial support to get off the ground from the Five Lamps, Princes Trust, Stockton Council, Business Link and the Job Centre.

Shelley said: “What was a hobby has turned out to be something I really enjoy and being my own boss is a bonus.

“No space is too big or small and I’m happy to carry out what my clients want or come up with some ideas for them.”

To find out more or discuss your garden requirements, give Shelley a call on 07748 814569 or email [email protected] She’ll soon have a new website at www.spicyfroglandscapes.co.uk

Spice up your garden!

Some of Shelley’s work – before and after

Nifco develops future plansStockton Council’s Economic Development team has been supporting car parts manufacturer Nifco UK with the development of plans to further boost its future success. Recently the company announced its intention to develop a second £7m factory at Durham Lane, which, if approved, could create up to 80 more jobs. Nifco is also planning to invest a further £8 million in new manufacturing and energy-efficient equipment.

Recruitment under way at Billingham turbine factoryTAG Energy solutions has begun recruitment for its new £20 million wind turbine production factory at Haverton Hill. The plant, expected to be completed in the spring, is likely to lead to the creation of 400 jobs. Last month TAG appointed six people as part of the initial 100 jobs that the plant will create. A further300postsarelikelyto follow if orders for the manufacture of offshore wind turbine foundations meet expectations.

£1.6 million boosts digital industries A world class centre for digital business based in the Tees Valley is a step closer to reality thanks to a £1.6 million boost.

DigitalCity Business has been awarded the funding by the European Regional Development Fund Competitiveness Programme 2007-13,OneNorthEast,Stockton Council and Middlesbrough Council.

The project aims to create 20 businesses, increase turnover, international trade and create hundreds of jobs over the next five years. It will see DigitalCity Business extend its services into Stockton providing a range of specialist business development support to both existing and emerging creative sector businesses based in the Borough.

All doing well...

Mandy and Jonathan Marsh own The Hamper Merchant, in Stockton’s Regency West Mall, and know just how hard and worrying it can be to take that quantum leap and set up your own business.

That’s why they are offering other aspiring individuals the opportunity to display their wares and set up a table in their store, in return for a nominal return of ten per cent of the sales. The opportunity could be particularly attractive for people who produce items as a hobby or for a second income.

Jonathan says: “There’s no need for the person to stay with the stand – they simply need to produce a display and information about their product. We hope this would benefit the individuals or businesses to have a town centre location from which they can sell.

“It also benefits our customers for us to offer new local products each week. They may be unique and not yet on sale elsewhere. It

also benefits us to view trials of products we could possibly introduce to the store on a permanent basis.”

If you are interested call Mandy or Jonathan on (01642) 615726 or visit www.thehampermerchant.com

A neighbourly business

Mandy Marsh in their store – The Hamper Merchant.

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Many of us take living independently for granted – doing what we want, going where and when we want. However, for some that’s not the case…

Stockton Independent Living Centre (SILC), situated at High Newham Road in Hardwick, has had some new developments over the past year, which have made the centre a busy and valuable resource for people whose independence has been reduced or affected due to prolonged illness or injury.

Staff there, provide assessments, information, support and advice and there’s a wide range of demonstration equipment on display for anyone to try out ranging from beds, hoists, seating and aids for bathing to a stair lift.

There’s also a fully equipped disabled-accessible kitchen showing how height-adjustable worktops and small items can help. If you meet social services criteria after your assessment, provision will be made by the Occupational Therapy Department.

If you fall outside the criteria or if you wish to purchase privately, you will be offered details on a range of reputable and reliable stockists and retailers who will be able to help you further.

There is also a Telecare demonstration area showing a range of equipment and sensors that can help you stay independent in your own home – to detect ,for example, falls, floods or extreme temperatures.

If you have, or are thinking about buying a mobility scooter, the centre offers assessments and advice to ensure you are able to drive it safely and responsibly. A Mobility Scooter Guidance Manual is also available for you to take away. Book your free assessment today!

For people affected by stroke, a drop-in clinic is held weekly and provides advice and practical support from a range of health professionals to help you regain your skills and independence. To find out more, call Louise Newbold on (01642) 524750.

If you’d like help filling in forms or advice on Carers Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, call Robert Brown on (01642) 528467.

There’s a Hearing Clinic where people with hearing difficulties can try out various specially designed telephones – for an appointment call (01642) 527764.

Additionally, an Intermediate Care Service based at Tithebarn facilitates timely hospital discharges and the prevention of inappropriate admissions, through participation in an assessment and rehabilitation programme, available seven days a week. Please contact (01642) 528285.

There’s also a new free service being developed for people who have lost some of their daily living skills, which aims to help in practical ways to regain mobility, confidence and life skills, within a six week period. Following this, a range of different services who can offer help.

Living independently

Helping people live independently – (l – r) Louise Newbold, Robert Brown, Nicola Reynolds, Christine Lucas and Katie Hall.

Environment and HousingnewsSto

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Previous years have already seen Stockton strike gold in the UK’s leading horticultural campaign – Britain in Bloom – and once again the Royal Horticultural Society has invited Stockton to represent the North East for the 2011 award with other shortlisted finalists from across the nation.

This follows the Borough’s success in retaining the ‘Best City’ Category in the regional competition, Northumbria in Bloom, every year since 2004.

Britain in Bloom provides cities, towns and villages the opportunity to show off achievements in environmental awareness, community participation and horticultural excellence. Once again, judges will inspect the Borough, with our results announced in September.

Everyone is encouraged to be involved and lend support to ensure Stockton really does ‘bloom’ again this year. Just a small effort from everyone really does help to make the Borough’s towns and villages vibrant,

colourful and sustainable so we can all be really proud of them.

Here are some of the ways you can become involved – and don’t forget to let us know!

To learn more about how you can become involved, email [email protected] or call (01642) 4524498.

People and Communities • JoinyourlocalResidentsorFriendsGroup

– if you don’t have one, you could create one

• ContactyourlocalParishCounciltosuggest improvements

• Makeyourgardenonetobereallyproudof

• Brightenupyourstreetwithhangingbaskets and containers

• Organiseacommunity litter pick

Schools • JoinNorthumbriaInBloom’s‘Growing

Together’ competition• BecomeanEco School • FormyourownEnvironmentalor

Gardening Club • BecomeaRecyclingChampion• Arrangeeventssuchaslitterpicking,bulb

planting and sunflower competitions

Business • Attractattention–impresswiththe

brightest, most colourful floral displays• Createabusinessgardenandencourage

wildlife • Sponsoraroundaboutandcontributeto

the development of the local area

Full of pride!

New life is being breathed into the Nursery Gardens housing development in Stockton.

The site was previously stalled due to the economic downturn. However in January, supported by the Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, Dunelm Homes were granted planning approval for a revised layout of the development.

54 units were built to date and Dunelm Homes recommenced building on the site in February.

Six extra two bed bungalows for rent thought Tees Valley Housing Group will be built, bringing the total units for rent to 21. It’s anticipated these homes will be ready around September.

Dunelm are offering a number of different options on the two and three bedroom houses and two bed apartments they have available, for further details please contact the Dunelm sales team on (01642) [email protected]

Look out for the new Show Home which will be open around June this year.

Nursery Gardens grow

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With warmer weather on its way, so too will be more garden green waste – and Stockton Council is delighted we are still able to continue collecting it free of charge.

Last year, we replaced the clear bags with re-usable green waste sacks which you should fill, leave out on your usual pick-up day and we will do the rest! 2011 collections will run for 26 weeks from April to October and you should have already received a reminder leaflet.

You can buy extra re-usable sacks for £1.50 each or rolls of 26 green waste bags from various Council Offices across the Borough. To find out morecall(01642)391959or visit www.stockton.gov.uk

Bag it

The Council’s Animal Welfare team takes in around 600 dogs each year and needs blankets to keep them warm. If you have any old blankets, towels or duvets you no longer need, please drop them off at 16 Church Road, Stockton – the team (and the doggies) will be very grateful. To report a found or missing dog call (01642) 526575.

Tony Henderson is the 1,000th Tristar Homes customer to find a new home through its Choice Based Lettings Scheme, Compass.

71-year-old Tony is thrilled at securing a one-bedroom bungalow in Yarm, after deciding it was time to downsize after 44 years living in his semi–detached house in Billingham.

Existing tenants or people on the housing register can select and bid for vacant properties through Compass, which offers more choice. Bids can be by internet, text, calling Tristar’s Customer Service Centre or through a Neighbourhood Housing Office.

Tristar staff can bid on your behalf and soon you’ll be able to bid through digital TV.

“Moving here is the best thing I have ever done,” said Tony. “It’s a great neighbourhood, I’ve been able to use my bus pass for the first time and even the postman comes earlier! Nothing has been too much trouble for Tristar – they’ve been marvellous.”

For details of how to register and bid,call08447360007,visitwww.tristarhomes.co.uk or call at the Stratford House Housing Office in Ramsgate, Stockton.

Home sweet home

New tenant, Mr Henderson with Jackie Leonard of Tristar Homes.

A group of Eaglescliffe volunteers is helping young people and adults explore woodland and take part in bush crafts.

Eaglescliffe Forest School (the former Admiralty Site Ecology Group) has recently moved from a site at Elementis Chromium to a new forest owned by Marshalls Ltd on Durham Lane.

They’ve been working hard to shape their new forest and will be opening for visitors in May.

For more information or to book a visit call 07908 527380.

New home for forest friends

Duvet days

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Families with disabled children have benefitted from a range of Council services as part of a national initiative called Aiming High for Disabled Children.

This has helped young people with complex and additional needs to take part in short breaks, overnight stays, day trips, fun activities with one to one support for teenagers and under 8s.

A new independent living facility at Oasis in Thornaby, known as The Flat, is a wonderful place to help these young people gain independence skills. This was developed by young people from Brighter Futures and Stockton Council.

Brighter Futures is a run by Stockton Borough Council for Young Adults age 18-30withcomplexandadditional needs promoting

independence, employment and further education.

The Council is also creating an Independent Travel Training Centre at Abbey Hill School to help youngsters to learn the skills needed to travel independently, such as how to use and recognise different types of crossings, plan a journey and use a public bus.

Brighter Futures are also working with the George Hardwick Foundation to develop their new “one stop” carers’ centre.

Through Aiming High, professionals and parents are working together to help shape future services. Local parents’ group Stockton United for Change, is growing in strength and voice and is planning a conference to celebrate the achievements of Aiming High and plan future developments.

Aiming high!

Pictured are some of the young people from Brighter Futures who helped develop ‘The Flat’. Left to right back row Glenn Basford, Michelle Quinn, Elizabeth Kipling-Vasey, Stockton Council, Stephen Jordan, Paul Willows and Sara Wilkinson. Front row left to right Susan Scott, Manager of Oasis, Chris Boddy and Jade Cole.

Children helping children: More than 1,500 pupils across the Borough took part in a road safety event and raised more than £800 for the Children’s Butterwick Hospice. ‘Bright Sparks’ day saw them dress in bright clothes to highlight the benefits of wearing something bright to be seen when out and about near roads.

A local campaign to stop bullying has received a prestigious award.

Tees Valley YMCA’s Motive8 Project has won the Diana Anti-Bullying Award with its Shout Out Allowed campaign.

Founded in 1999, the Diana Award recognises outstanding work and contributions young people make to help eradicate bullying in their schools and communities.

Tees Valley YMCA worked with the Council’s youth team at Chill Zone in Stockton to help young people plan, rehearse, film and edit a short commercial to raise awareness of bullying and, in particular, cyber-bullying.

Stockton Youth Bank funded the project, which is being shown in schools and youth clubs.

Claire Hill, Tees Valley YMCA Project Manager, said: “We are very proud of our young people on this project. This award will encourage them to continue their work and inspire others to get involved. The young people truly value this award and are happy to be recognised.”

Motiv8 is funded through the Big Lottery to identify the educational and social needs of Stockton’s young people by creating projects to tackle their concerns and problems. To find out more about Motiv8 call (01642) 676511, email [email protected] or visit [email protected]

What an honour

Pictured (l – r): Harry Wood, Rosie Wood, Lauren Collier, Samantha Pritchers and Katie Collins.

Musical MinisThese fun, music-based classes for pre-school children and babies clearly had an positive effect on little Evangeline Park, who will be one in April, from Ingleby Barwick, pictured here. She won the regional finals in a photographic competition to celebrate 21 years of classes. To find out more about Musical Minis

– now held in Wolviston, Ingleby Barwick and Egglescliffe – call Katherine Munroon01913861212or visit www.musicalminis.co.uk


All schools have a governing body – a group of volunteers responsible for appointing staff, managing the budget, maintaining standards and ensuring children are safe. A headteacher or principal is responsible for the day-to-day management.

Community schools are owned by the Council, which controls pupil admissions and appoints some governors. Parents, staff and local residents can also be governors. The Council employs the staff but does not appoint them – the governing body does that.

Voluntary-aided schools tend to be religious or faith schools owned by the Church of England or the Roman Catholic Church, who appoint some of their governors and usually own their school buildings. The governing body employs staff and controls pupil admissions.

Voluntary-controlled schools are similar to

voluntary-aided schools. They are faith schools that choose to work closely with the Council. The Council employs staff and controls pupil admissions.

Foundation Schools are similar to voluntary-aided schools but without the religious element. An external trust owns the school’s land and buildings, appoints the governors, employs staff and controls pupil admissions.

Stockton Borough doesn’t have any Foundation schools.

All the schools described above have to follow the National Curriculum and must pay teachers according to national agreements.

Academies are all-ability, publicly funded, independent state schools funded by the Government. They can set their own pay and conditions for staff, have freedoms around curriculum delivery and can change the length of their terms and school days. Academy buildings

are owned by a trust which appoints governors and employs staff. The governing body controls pupil admissions.

In Stockton we have two academies. North Shore Health Academy has NHS Stockton as lead sponsor and it has a science specialism, with a strong focus on health and well-being, and sport. Thornaby Academy has Teesside University as lead sponsor and it has a specialism of Business & Enterprise with a focus on Digital Media.

The Council, Stockton Riverside College and Stockton Sixth Form College are co-sponsors of these Academies.

To find out more visit http://www.nshacademy.org.uk/ or http://www.thornabyacademy.org.uk/

Free Schools are all-ability, publicly-funded, independent schools established by groups who show evidence of parental demand. They do not have to follow the National Curriculum, can set their

own pay and conditions and change the length of school terms and the school day.

There aren’t any Free Schools in Stockton Borough. However, a group in Ingleby Barwick is applying to set up a Free School in the town. They are likely to find out whether their application has been successful later this year.

Other Independent Schools (Private Schools) are funded by fees paid by parents and income from the school’s investments. They can set their own curriculum and admissions policies. There are three independent schools in Stockton Borough. For more information about these schools visit the Independent Schools Joint Council at www.isc.co.uk

You can find more details about how to apply for school places at www.stockton.gov.uk/schooladmissions

Which school?

Stockton Borough has an excellent range of extremely good schools. The choice is wide and diverse – but what are the differences between them?



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Young people at the two new academies in Stockton Borough will soon benefit from improved learning environments. The Government has allocated£13.4milliontoNorth Shore Health Academy to ensure the buildings are suitable for 21st Century teaching and learning. At the moment the sponsors of

North Shore Health Academy are carrying out assessments to work out the exact scale and nature of the project. Meanwhile, Thornaby Academy will receive £5.5 million to create state-of-the art facilities for students and the wider community.

We hope to include further details about the plans for both academies in the next Stockton News.

Multi-million pound investment in learning

A carpet of bluebells: Last autumn, pupils from St John the Evangelist primary school enjoyed helping the Council’s Local Nature Reserve staff plant more than 500 native bluebell bulbs at Charlton’s Pond, Billingham. They will return this year to see the fruits of their hard work flourish in the woodland.

As Stockton News was going to print a group of young people aged 11 – 18 from Stockton were delighted at being nominated for a prestigious First Light Award following their production of a short film.

‘Dawn of the Living Dad’ tells the story of Dawn a down trodden teenager who always does what her dad tells her, she even puts up with his obsessive tittle-tattle about golf. Meanwhile, outside in the street two bullies wait for a chance

to inflict their own style of cruelty. Will Dawn ever find the courage to rise up and break free?

First Light helps young people from all backgrounds to develop their skills, talent, creativity, confidence and entrepreneurial capabilities giving young people the opportunity to work with professionals on high quality, youth led digital media projects.

As part of the ‘Best Drama’ category, the group were being judged by Daniel Craig, Nathan Stewart Jarrett and Claudia Winkleman in mid March.

Camera - rolling!The new website www.stocktonwall.co.uk, featured in the last issue of Stockton News, is proving a hit with young people in the Borough.

The site, called The Wall, is packed with regularly updated information on careers and local industries, training providers, organisations and employers.

Students at schools and colleges can use it to find out about a host of careers from engineering, the creative media, health, education and more. Input from a clinical nurse, a health and fitness adviser, a chief executive and manager in production all adds to the information available.

Teachers, parents and businesses too can benefit from The Wall to find out about careers, work experience preparation and qualifications needed for various careers.

Students were enthusiastic when they visited the site. Jessica Highfield, 14, of Conyers School, Yarm, said: “It’s helpful because it’s easy to navigate when looking for jobs for work experience. It also helps for future job references.”

The wall helps unravel what may seem complicated terms to some. Nicola Brown, 15, said: “I didn’t know what regeneration was but now, with The Wall, I can find out.”

Building blocks to success

Pictured are Conyers students who helped develop The Wall (l – r) Ashleigh Scott, Emily Burrell and Joseph Harker.


Young people gave the ‘thumbs up’ to a two-hour event where they fired questions at local public service officials about how national and local spending cuts might affect their lives.

Apanelof13madeupofofficers from the Council, Cleveland Police Authority, the NHS and voluntary groups answered questions put by 65 young people from various youth groups across the Borough.

The event at Stockton’s Central Library will form part of the consultation for the future development of youth support services.

Many of the young people already receive support from the Council or its partners and this was an ideal opportunity to speak to decision makers. The connection between them will continue to ensure young people can influence and shape the services they receive.

Questions ranged from whether there would still be youth clubs and help for young people with sexual health and drug problems, to how they can be more involved in the future.

All their concerns shed light on what they want for the future and how we can bring that about.

Having their say

280 Tees Valley youngsters had a fantastic ‘Feel Good Friday’ in January at an event to promote positive mental health and tackle stigma and prejudice around it.

Aged 12-16, they produced a panto whilst learning skills in drama, costume, backdrop and stage design, cookery, street dance, music, hoopla fit, African singing, Taiko drumming and a whole lot more.

Staff were on hand with help, advice and support as the young people had fun, made new friends and learned something new.

The event supported the national A Time To Change programme and was brought together with Healthy Schools Stockton, LGBT and Sports Development.

To find out more about this and other events email [email protected](01642)524733.

Feel Good Friday

Memories of Michael live on: A young, enthusiastic boy, Michael Benson sadly died aged 15. His memory lives on through the MB Awards – a great night each year to commemorate Michael’s life and award those who try to live as he did by enjoying every moment. The awards, which started in 2006, took place at Billingham Synthonia and celebrated the achievements of more than 100 children in categories including Personal Achievement, Sporting Achievement, Supporting Someone and Teamwork. Sponsorship came from Stockton Youth Bank, the Council’s Leisure and Sports Development team, Eastern Ravens Trust and the Buttercup FC and thanks go to the Children’s Society who printed the programmes.

Thank you: David Maddison, who leads Conyers School Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, has a huge ‘thank you’ for the young people who braved wintry conditions during a challenging charity walk as part of their training, in aid of the Holistic Cancer Care Centre at James Cook University Hospital. The centre had provided some much-appreciated well-being care for David’s wife Lesley before she sadly passed away in December 2009. The students decorated a treeinmemoryofLesleyandraised£863insponsorship.

United we stand: Parents and carers for children aged 0-19 years with complex and additional needs can gain support, advice and information from Stockton United for Change. To find out more about the group email [email protected]



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Able bodied and disabled young athletes in Stockton Borough aged 12 – 18 who are competing, or aspiring to compete at county level can receive up to £200 to further their athletic careers. The Council’s talented athlete grants are funded by NHS Stockton-on-Tees and athletes can apply upuntil31July.AgrantspanelmeetsinAugusttodecidewhich applicants will be successful. To find out more call Susanne Marshall of the Sports Development team on (01642) 526694 or email [email protected]

Eggsplore your decorating: Kids – it’s time to get your thinking caps on and decorate an egg! The traditional art of decorating eggs at Easter lives on in a free competition by the Hamper Merchants based in Regency Mall, Stockton. All the eggs will be displayed in the shop window from April 9 – 22 April and every entry will receive an Easter gift.

Young people from Stockton South Explorer Scout Unit, Eaglescliffe, took part in learning techniques from ‘submission grappling’ a sport very closely linked to Brazilian Jujitsu.

Lee Holdsworth from Teesside Martial Arts and Ralph Jordinson a Youth Worker for Stockton Council, both members of Redcar Brazilian Jiujitsu Club, put the scouts through their paces to give them a taste of the sport and its benefits.

The scouts took part in a fun and exciting session including warm ups, games including learning about ‘submissions’ and ‘escapes’.

Ralph said “There’s nothing like a competitive sport to get young people bonding and developing team work. Submission grappling is a perfect medium to promoting this and is a sport which every young person can at least try regardless of ability.”

Although submission grappling has many links to

martial arts, it’s more closely linked to Olympic wrestling where participants learn and use various taught grappling techniques to achieve a “defeat” of their opponent. What is important to note is grappling does not include “striking” i.e. kicking or punching nor does it include the use of weapons.

Lee a community sports leader said: “It’s a great sport for fitness; grappling uses all of the muscle groups especially the back muscles, arms and legs but doesn’t require great strength or flexibility to take part or succeed for that matter. It even allows smaller participants to take part with much larger participants with the same rates of progression and is increases cardio vascular fitness and promotes discipline and also patience when learning techniques.”

It’s hoped a new ten week course will be run for 10-15 year olds on Friday evening at the Robert Atkinson Youth and Community Centre, Thorntree Road, Thornaby. If you would like to find out more call Lee Holdsworth 07835411139

Grappling with a new sport

The Tees Valley Sport Young Sports Volunteer Awards to place at Teesside University recently with five outstanding young volunteers from across the Tees Valley being recognised as Volunteer of the Year for each area.

Stephen Dunn, a student at Stockton Sixth Form College was Stockton’s winner and was recognised for being very procactive in school and community volunteering achieving his Gold Award on the Step into Sport Programme.

Stephen has represented Egglescliffe Explosion Basketball, Leven FC, Yarm CC – although his main sport is hockey. He plays for the college team as well as Stockton Hockey Club and has also been selected for the Tees Valley Team district and North East teams.

He coaches as Stockton Hockey Club working with

the women and youth teams and has also coached and volunteered at a number of clubs including Roseberry Ladies Hockey Club, Yarm and Norton Cricket Clubs, Claireville Athletics Stadium, Gateshead International Stadium and Stockton Town Football Club.

His overall attitude to sport and volunteering is excellent and he’s very willing to adapt and has taken part in organising a wide variety of sports in college.

Stephen spares his time

Mike Crawshaw, Head of Cultural Services at Darlington Council, presents Stephen Dunn (right) with his award.

Sport support


A DAY IN THE

LIFEJANE RICHARDSON

Talking to Jane Richardson, anyone could be inspired to become a foster carer.

Jane, 50, has been a foster carer with Stockton Council’s Child Placement Team for the last 24 years and carries a wealth of experience, knowledge and, crucially, enthusiasm for the job.

She thoroughly enjoys her role and definitely could never see herself doing anything else like working in a supermarket or bank. When she began all those years ago, she knew she had found her niche in life.

She would encourage anyone with even the slightest inkling that foster caring could be something they would consider to simply pick up the phone to find out more.

That said, Jane emphasises that the path to actually becoming a fully-fledged foster carer is a very thorough process, as prospective carers must follow a training programme and be fully checked. This includes revealing information about themselves as people, their background and even their family history.

Once foster carers are ready to take a child or young person, Stockton’s Child Placement team tries, wherever possible, to match their preference for a child’s age and gender. Some foster carers like to work with young or very young children and others, like Jane, prefer to work with teenagers.

Jane says: “There is absolutely no harm in picking up the phone to find out about what’s involved in being a foster carer. There’s no pressure to commit as either party (foster carer or the Child

Placement team) can change their mind.”

When Jane first started foster caring she had two young children of her own but still felt she had something to offer other children who were in difficult circumstances.

Jane recalls some of the children she has cared for and said: “One little three-year-old was quite disturbed when he came to me and was quite a challenge. Sometimes it can take months for a child to adapt to a change of home.”

To bring a child or young person into your home means that although it is a job, it also entails welcoming them into the heart of your family – a fine balance which, if successful, is “just about the most rewarding thing you can do for a child” says Jane.

If and when the young person leaves your care it can be naturally sad in some ways but hopefully a joyful one too, knowing the child is going back to their parents or moving on to better things.

Jane says she constantly monitors and analyses herself to make sure she is getting the balance right – making sure a child feels secure but also that they follow her home rules and guidelines. She has ‘firm boundaries’ of how they should behave both at home and outside and agrees with the rules advocated by Jo Frost in the TV series ‘Supernanny’. Rules include respect for others, no abuse whether physical or verbal and no swearing.

Support is always on hand for Stockton’s foster carers and Jane can’t speak highly enough of Stockton’s Child Placement team. She said: “They

are truly fantastic and always there at the end of the phone with help and support.”

Over the years, Jane has taken the children she has cared for on holidays enjoying each other’s company. She recently bought a caravan near Barnard Castle to spend weekends and school holidays there.

It’s a busy life for Jane but one she says ‘keeps me young’ and she will continue to foster as long as her health will allow. With countless memories of her job

she says she could write a book – who knows, she might just do that one day.

If you would like more information about fostering and adoption, take Jane’s advice and call Stockton Council’s Child Placement team on (01642) 526218 or email [email protected]

“just about the most rewarding thing you can

do for a child”

www.stockton.gov.uk

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A recent regional campaign by ‘Balance’ (the North’s first alcohol office and first in the UK) showed X-Ray type images of the human body and how consuming too much alcohol can cause damage which isn’t immediately visible.

Drinking alcohol within reason shouldn’t do anyone harm. However, drinking too much too often can set you up for future health problems.

Research shows that two in five people across our region drink at, or above, the Government’s recommended limits on a daily or almost daily basis. These are two to three units (about two small glasses of wine) for a woman and three to four units (about two pints of regular

strength beer or lager) for a man, two or three times a week.

If you are worried about how much alcohol you are drinking, Balance recommend keeping a drinks diary to help keep track.

The negative effects of drinking too much can result in strokes, heart attacks and dementia as well as mouth, throat, liver and breast cancer.

Contrary to popular belief it’s not binge drinkers or alcoholics who suffer health problems but those who drink too much on a regular basis.

To find out more call 0191 2613803orvisitwww.balancenortheast.co.uk/harm or follow Twitter at http://twitter.com/balancene/(@balancene

Invisible damage

Ladies are invited to join Butterwick Hospice on Saturday 9 July for its third annual Midnight Walk and follow in the footsteps of more than 1,000 women to complete the walk over the past two years.

Joining together for either a 5k or 10k walk at the stroke of midnight, they have raised a fantastic £114,000.00 for the hospice.

The route begins at Durham University’s Queens Campus, crossing over the Infinity Bridge and continuing around Stockton’s Riverside.

To register call (01642) 628930ordownloadanapplication form www.butterwick.org.uk/midnightwalk Entry costs £12.50 per person and each walker receives a special T-shirt, medal and well-deserved breakfast sandwich at the finish line.

It’s a walk in the dark

Walkers Marion Atkinson (left) and her niece Tracey Irwin at last year’s walk.

Hearing loops, like that pictured, help people with a hearing impairment and who use hearing aids in an environment with background noise. The person wearing the hearing aid can choose to hear only what is necessary by flicking the switch on their hearing aid to the ‘T’ position.

AllStocktonCouncil’s33reception points across the Borough have either fitted

or portable hearing loops available. If you are visiting a Council reception point and require a hearing loop, please ask a member of staff.

The Council can supply portable and clipboard hearing loops for organisations working in the Borough free of charge. Easy to use, they could make a big difference to people with hearing impairments. Call the Diversity Team on (01642) [email protected] for more information or to book a hearing loop.

Keeping you in the loop

That’s the message from Thornaby grandma Janet Allan (pictured).

Janet, 55, was totally fed up of being called ‘Fagash Lil’ by friends but, with help from Stockton and Hartlepool NHS Stop Smoking Service, she’s quit the habit.

She said: “I smoked since I was 11 and was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in February last year. I was smoking 60 a day and got sick of being called Fagash Lil.

“IsetaquitdateofSeptember30andputitinto my mobile phone. I really just wanted to keep going and seeing that I’d quit in a week, then a fortnight, then a month and so on was really motivating.

“Everyone’s different but the patches worked for me. I’d tried them a few years ago and they’d given me nightmares, but they have really improved.

“I’ve had a great time since and have been to Wales twice with the money I’ve saved and treated my grandchildren. My breathing

has really improved – I can walk to the shops without coughing and spluttering. There is no way I will pick up another cigarette again.”

If you would like help to stop smoking call the Stockton and Hartlepool NHS Stop SmokingServiceon(01642)635650orcallthefreehelplineon08000224332orvisithttp://smokefree.nhs.uk/


It’s never too late to quit

New horizons: Volunteers are needed to help with social activities, making refreshments and generally welcoming people to the New Horizons drop-in, currently based in Stockton’s Unitarian Church, Wellington Street. New Horizons offers support, counselling, groups and activities for people struggling with mental health problems and would welcome people with skills or interests to benefit users, such as arts and crafts, creative poetry, keep fit or yoga. Volunteers receive the necessary CRB checks and induction training. If you are interested, call Jill Anderson on07553354601.

Going the ‘extra mile’ is all part of a service to help patients who have been referred by their doctor or other health professional to connect with the right non-medical support to tackle their health, well-being, social and lifestyle needs.

Run by Stockton Residents and Community Groups Association, this highly-tailored service looks at an individual’s situation and offers easy access to a wide range of support options such as volunteer and non-NHS organisations.

These could be bereavement services, debt and benefits advice, help with relationship issues, leading healthier lifestyles such as weight management and stopping smoking, fuel poverty and much more.

To find out more, Stockton Borough residents can speak to their GP, health professional or call Marie Harris on (01642) 647770 or [email protected]

Signpost service

Pictured are some of the student doctors studying medicine at Durham University, Queen’s Campus. As part of their studies they spend a year on placement working with community organisations in our area and have gained a wealth of valuable experience working Stockton Parent Support (SPS).

“It’s an opportunity for our students to learn about health in the wider context, the important work that agencies do to support their communities and also, we hope, lend a helping hand in the capacity of a volunteer”, says Dr. Simon Forrest, who is responsible for the scheme.

Young doctors


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Charlotte Dobson, 17 (above), attends ‘Voice Box.’ It gives young people the opportunity to discuss issues and influence decision making. Charlotte said: “It’s great to be a part of the group because you feel you can talk about anything and are helping other young people. We discuss all sorts of issues and it’s reassuring to find other young people in similar situations.”

Charlotte’s also a member of the Police Cadets which sees young people developing life and citizenship skills while improving personal fitness through physical training and team games. The cadets have opportunities to take part in volunteer work for community projects and local events. Charlotte really enjoys it: “It’s good because we get an opportunity to have a say, meet new people and develop new skills.”

Sarah Dobson, 12, is a ‘Young Inspector’ helping to ensure health services across Stockton Borough are appropriate for young people. The group meets bi-monthly and the Chair attends adult meetings to raise

awareness of the needs of young people, as Sarah explains: “The adults listen to us and we often have an impact. More young people should take part in activities like this as it is important that we have a voice.”

The Young Inspectors also carry out health inspections at different organisations and provide training for hospital staff so they can learn how to talk to young people.

Sarah added: “It is fantastic to have the opportunity to keep people safe, especially other young people.

“Everyone has the ability to make choices in life and have an impact on their own life and the lives of others. If you don’t get involved in activities like this you are missing out on these opportunities.”

Daniel Durham, 20, has been making a real difference to young people in Stockton for several years. He’s recently received the “Prime Minister’s Award for Civil Recognition” which recognises people who have carried out at least 300hoursofvolunteeringinayear.Overtheyearshehashelped at many events including health events, open days and Beat the Boredom. He also supports a special “Family Night” for young people will special needs and their families.

Daniel said: “It is fantastic to see the young people’s faces and know you are making a difference. Volunteering opens the door to lots of new experiences and opportunities.”

“Without volunteers many projects wouldn’t exist so it’s really important that more people get involved so young people don’t miss out.”

Six months ago Daniel secured a job at the Cornerhouse Youth Project in Stockton and he also has a placement with Stockton Council’s Targeted Youth Support team. To find out more about voluntary and community work opportunities for young people call Virginia McCallum on (01642)527967orJohnTierneyon528531orvisitwww.stockton.gov.uk/mycommunity

My, your and our communityYoung people across Stockton Borough are doing their bit to support their local community.

Many dedicated teenagers are taking part in a wide range of activities which help shape life where they live.

And as part of the My Community campaign, the Council is showcasing their good work and asking other young people to join in.


Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board5th April 2011, 5pm, Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre

Central Area Partnership Board 31st MArch 2011, 10am, Education Centre

Eastern Area Partnership Board19th April 2011, 5.30pm, Five Lamps Organisation

Western Area Partnership Board25th April 2011, 6pm, Venue to be confirmed

Northern Area Partnership Board4th April 2011, 5.45pm, Low Grange Community Centre

A report by councillors from all 12 North East local authorities calls for better understanding of the needs of ex-service personnel and their families by public bodies.

The ‘Regional Review of the Health of the Ex Service Community’, produced after extensive discussions with the armed forces, NHS, other public bodies and voluntary organisations, says armed forces veterans have a range of unique needs and recommends how public bodies can cater for these.

Many ex-service people have made tremendous personal sacrifices for our country but struggle in civilian life.

Closer working between the armed forces and councils could provide information on the numbers leaving the forces and the demand for things such as employment and training, housing and social care.

It recommends an ‘armed forces champion’ who can push forward improvements in services for veterans and point them in the right direction for advice.

Part-funded by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, the Ministry of Defence and Department of Health also contributed to the review, which looked at the physical health, mental health and social economic needs of North East veterans.

Report looks to veterans’ needs

It’s a first for the ‘third’Catalyst, which supports the Borough’s voluntary and not-for-profit organisations – known as the ‘third sector’ – has won praise for its work from the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) in its report ‘A Bridge Between Two Worlds’.

The report recognised Catalyst’s work in various areas of procurement, quality assurance training and helping Stockton’s third sector organisations become prepared for new commissioning opportunities.

Allison Agius, Executive Director of Catalyst, said “We are working in many different areas to help community and voluntary groups to be ‘commissioning ready’ – so they can take on delivery of various services and initiatives in the community. To be singled out shows just what a strong and innovative third sector we have.”

Recently Stockton Council and Catalyst gave support and training to local organisations in the voluntary and community sector to help them save money when, for example, buying equipment, procurement law and how to understand the tender process. Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/my community to find out more about how you could become an active member of the community.

Membership of Catalyst is free to all third sector organisations operating in the Borough. Benefits include a weekly email bulletin showing funding opportunities and essential news; free places at the annual conference, seminars and networking events; and exclusive money-saving schemes including specialist insurance policies.

To view the report visit www.navca.org.uk/news/bridgebetween.htm or to find out more about the work of Catalyst visit www.catalyststockton.org orcall(01642)733908.

Councils will now consider how to make implement the report’s recommendations, which include ways to:

• better identify the ex-service community

• improve communication and information sharing between the armed forces, public bodies and voluntary organisations

• raise awareness in the ex-service community of the support available

• improve take-up of low cost housing by the ex-service community


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Kitchens can be dangerous places and half of accidental house fires start here, caused by unattended pans, grills and chip pans, or items such as towels, paper and washing baskets left too close to the heat source.

Les Jones of Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “Last year 101 kitchen fires started accidentally and could have been prevented. To avoid fires, try not to get distracted when cooking, avoid leaving children on their own in the kitchen

and keep matches and pan handles out of their reach.

“Take care if you’re wearing loose clothing and don’t cook if you have been drinking alcohol or taken strong prescription drugs, as you may become drowsy or lose concentration.

“If a pan catches fire, don’t move it. Turn off the heat if it’s safe to do so, get out and call 999. Don’t use a fire extinguisher on a pan of oil because its force can spread the fire and never use water on chip pan fires as this could cause a fireball.”

The brigade offers free smoke alarms and will fit them for you. Check your home smoke alarms every week – it only takes a minute and it could save lives.Before you go to bed, remember to close all doors, turn off appliances and don’t leave any on ‘standby’ mode.Cleveland Fire Brigade offers residents a free home fire safety visit with advice and help to create your own escape plan. Call 01429874063toarrangeoneorvisitwww.clevelandfire.gov.uk

Kitchen concerns

Top team: Stockton’s 14th annual Road Safety Quiz, postponed from December, finally took place in January once the snow had gone. This year’s finalists were Ingleby Mill Primary School, Ingleby Barwick, St Patrick’s Primary, Thornaby and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, Billingham. Pictured are the triumphant Ingleby Mill team, who won for the tenth time with St Patrick’s runners up, with the scores very close. Well done to all three schools.


POLICE BEAT

Contact your Neighbourhood Police Officer on (01642) 302930

A Year 6 pupil from Harrow Gate Primary School in Stockton has been awarded a prize after competing in an anti-bullying poster competition organised by two neighbourhood officers.

PCSO Rachel Shepherd and PC Wayne Scott arranged for the whole school to take part in a competition where the pupil who designed the best poster with an anti-bullying theme would have their poster displayed around the school and win anMP3playerand£15worthofiTunesvouchers.

The competition ran in mid-November for a week and now the best designed poster has been chosen and Megan Giles was announced the winner.

PCSO Rachel Shepherd said: “We thought this would be a great way to interact with the children in the school and to pass on any crime-related messages we need to. Bullying is something which happens in most schools and we feel it is important to raise awareness about the effects it can have on children and the help that is available to them.

“The competition proved to be popular amongst the pupils and Megan was very happy to learn she had designed the best poster.”

Hoax CallsCleveland Police and the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) have joined forces to warn those who make hoax calls that action will be taken against them.

Year after year the emergency services receive thousands of hoax calls which can potentially put others lives at risk. Up until the end of November 2010, the Force had received 2564 hoax calls. From January to December 2009 the Force received 2642 hoax calls.

PC Dawn Young, Problem Orientated Policing (POP) Co-Ordinator at Stockton district, said: “The 999 system is an extremely valuable means of contacting the Police, Fire and Ambulance in an emergency. There are a minority of people who misuse this service and potentially put lives at risk.”

Gayle White, Customer Care Manager for the North East Ambulance Service, said: “Abusing the 999 system can cost someone their life. By tying up a call handler or despatching an ambulance to where it is not really required, vital minutes are lost.”

Cleveland Police have worked with all of the other emergency services to gather evidence against the individuals who have been prosecuted and, in certain cases, Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) have been granted by the court. Abusing the 999 service is a criminal offence and action will be taken.

Success for Stockton’s Community Click web chat

Stockton’s online police meeting pilot has been hailed a success after it received the highest number of comments compared to previous web chats.

Inspector Andy Fox from Stockton Neighbourhood Policing Team held the virtual meeting, called Community Click, to answer questions from the local community on Wednesday 19 January between 7pm and 9pm.

People clicked online to talk to Inspector Fox about a range of issues including police recruitment, neighbourhood policing in the area and neighbourhood watch.

Inspector Fox said: “Community Click proved to be very successful for the people in the North area of Stockton. It was a great way to engage with residents from the comfort of their home.

“I am really pleased the people of Stockton logged onto the website and chatted to me about a variety of different issues and I look forward to further Community Click web chats in the near future.”

Anyone wanting more information on the Community Click pilot can visit the Cleveland Police website www.cleveland.police.uk

Stockton school pupil wins competition arranged by Neighbourhood Officers

www.stockton.gov.uk

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Buying a second hand car can be a daunting prospect for anyone - especially if you know little about them.

Now in its fifth year, the ‘Do The Right Thing’ partnership between Stockton Council’s Trading Standards and the motor trade, helps protect consumers buying used vehicles from garages in the Borough.

Trading Standards officers have praised several local garages following a survey of cars for sale on their forecourts, after a trained forecourt inspector visited 12garagesandexamined23cars. They found only minor faults such as under-inflated tyres, lack of water in washer bottles and excessive play on handbrakes – all important but easily rectified.

Consumer protection laws give them powers to inspect, test or examine used cars

on garage forecourts. If they find defects, they can suspend the vehicle from sale until defects are rectified. Officers can also seize and detain vehicles and apply to a magistrate for an order for the car to be destroyed.

Before driving a car from a forecourt it’s worth checking tyre pressures, asking an experienced mechanic to check the car over (many motoring organisations can provide pre-sales reports for a low cost), obtaining all of the car’s documents such as registration and MoT papers, contacting the previous keeper and insisting on a full MoT – but bear in mind this only covers certain areas.

For a list of ‘Do The Right Thing’ members, click on to the flashing car at the bottom of the page on www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/stockton/ or call Stockton Trading Standards on (01642) 526560.

Keeping up standards

Recent figures from the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership show the area’s roads were the safest since records began in 1991 with no fatal casualties in Stockton in 2010.

Serious casualty figures were 44 per cent down on those recorded in 2009.

Richard McGuckin, the Council’s Head of Technical Services, said: “We are delighted to have met the Government’s challenging targets for reducing the number of people killed

or seriously injured on our roads. It proved that intervention through education, enforcement and engineering is succeeding in protecting our communities.”

Over the last year, the Council carried out a range of education, training and publicity campaigns in schools across the Borough, supporting the previous year’s pedestrian and road safety training.

To find out more about road and cycling safety training call(01642)[email protected]

Cutting our losses

Children from Ingleby Mill Primary School spell represent 190 casualties saved.

Two award-winning motorcycle training schemes have joined forces to become ‘Ridewell Tees Valley’.

The change follows a review of the Cleveland Motorcycle Training Scheme and the Handle it or Lose it rider development programme.

Ridewell Tees Valley will continue to train riders as qualified motorcyclists through Compulsory Basic Training and Direct Access training and riders can now take a ‘post-test’ course after obtaining a full licence.

Anybody wanting to either learn to ride a motorcycle, or

take their riding to a higher level, can call Ridewell Tees Valleyon(01642)526732.

It’s all in the name

Safe in the waterA team of Tees Active lifeguards is delighted at gaining 4th place in the National Pool Lifeguard Championships. Each team of two male and two female lifeguards was rigorously tested in five modules covering every aspect of lifeguarding including fitness, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), first aid, incident management and rescue speed. Pictured (l – r) are Shane Hassall, Stephanie Ebblewhite, Amanda Taylor, Hannah Williams, Shaun Kelly

For more information on Tees Active visit www.teesactive.co.uk


Together with our many partners – and local people – we have made great strides in recent years, but now we face one of the most challenging periods for the police service. The coming year will see the start of major cutbacks in the funding we receive from Central Government – in real terms our funding will fall by £17 million over the next two years and will be cut by 20 per cent or more within four years. Reductions on this scale will inevitably involve very difficult decisions – to meet the impact of cuts over the next two years will mean reducing the total number of police officers, but we are determined to do everything possible to support the front-line services which will protect your homes and your streets.It will not be easy. We are examining every aspect of our operations and already we have taken important steps to modernise the way services are delivered, including the ground-breaking agreement with private sector partner Steria for providing many of our ‘back office’ operations which has improved the service to the public, protected jobs and will deliver major savings – around £50 million over ten years.We will continue with the modernisation programme, reducing the number of officers involved in support services and maximising the numbers available for the front-line policing which remains our top priority.

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Va va voom: American car enthusiasts will be gathering at Preston Park later this year for the North East American car club show. Taking place on the main field over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend in late May, vehicles from British car clubs will join American cars, trade stalls, a bar, food court and fairground rides. To find out more visit www.neacc.co.uk

Forum prepares for curtain-raiserTheatregoers can look forward to returning to the Forum Theatre, Billingham, when it reopens to the public in June or July with its season of shows are set to begin in August or September.

Looking ahead to the end of the year, the most magical pantomime of them all is currently at the planning stage, with Cinderella set to suffer her ugly sisters and take to her carriage.

With an all star cast, the pantomime’s first show takes place on Saturday 10 December and ends on Sunday 7 January 2012. And with ticket prices varying from £11.50 – £15, with special prices for schools, it’s a great way to enjoy the festive season.

Anyone on the mailing list should receive their

information brochure around June/July and details of performances will appear on the website at www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk

For budding future actors, the Forum Theatre School is still operating from temporary premises – to find out more email [email protected] or call (01642) 217504.

The 24/7 library is here!Avid book readers can enjoy a fantastic new, free e-book and audio book service from Stockton Council’s libraries.

It you are a library member, you can now log on to a website, browse a comprehensive range of fiction and non-fiction audio and e-books and download them to a range of devices suchase-readers,I-podsorMP3devices.

Members can have up to five items on loan at any one time and choose a loan period of seven, 14 or 21 days. When this expires, the item automatically ‘returns’ to the library for others to enjoy. No fee, no fines, no fuss...

If an item is already on loan, you can reserve it and an email will let you know as soon as it becomes available.

To get started, you’ll need your library card number and PIN to sign in at http://e-stockton.lib.overdrive.com/

As World Book Day was celebrated books and reading across the globe so Stockton joined in with enthusiasm and energy too.

As part of the celebrations early morning rail passengers at Thornaby Station were given the chance to read more than their daily paper as Stockton Library staff set up a stall on the platform to promote their services.

Children’s author Dinah Capparucci also made a visit to Roseworth and Fairfield Libraries.

An army of volunteering reading enthusiasts also gave away hundreds of books across the Borough on the night of Saturday March 5 and Norton Library stayed open until midnight as it hosted quizzes, dancing and other activities.

World Book Day success!

Winners of the quiz at Norton Library


Reading togetherNorton and Roseworth Libraries are helping blind and visually impaired people to enjoy and expand their reading.

A new pilot scheme will see volunteer reading buddies on hand to chat about books and help find the right books in the right formats. Whether your choice is fact or fiction, large print or spoken word, if you have a visual impairment the Reading Buddies are there to help. It’s free at Norton Library every Wednesday,1-3pmandRoseworth Library every Friday, 2-4pm.

The ever popular Victorian Street and Ballroom at Preston Hall Museum and Park are open once again as the multi-million pound regeneration programme continues.

The Ballroom is hosting a fantastic, free exhibition called ‘Behind the Scenes at the Museum’ until September, giving visitors an insight into some of the work which goes on away from the public eye.

Fitted out with shelving to mimic a museum store, a whole array of artefacts is on display – many of them unseen by the public for many years – including items from social history, industry, ceremonial weaponry, archive documents and art collections.

Alongside are some of the larger items from the collection including a 1960s invalid carriage and a huge industrial fire extinguisher.

The Cabinet of Curiosity holds some weird and wonderful items collected over the years and the Victorian Street has some new shops

including the J Walker Chemist & Druggist and Manship & Galvin Violinmakers.

The major regeneration should be completed by spring 2012.

Have a peep in Preston Hall

Picture courtesty of Tom Kirby



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Young people aged 8 – 18 at one local youth centre are writing, producing and recording their own music and learning about music production as well as performing.

Fairfield Centre For Young People (formerly The Boys Club Network) on Limbrick Avenue offers the normal activities in youth clubs such as café area, large screen gaming, lounge with internet and even a sports hall for five-a-side – but there’s more…

The creation of a small rehearsal room for bands as well as a recording studio for demo CD production means they can be really musically creative. The club teamed up with the Open College Network to

develop an accredited studio recording course which six young people have already completed.

Young people can also perform at the club, which has a stage, light rigging and acoustic drapes to deaden sound and darken the hall. Gaining an entertainment licence last year means they can hold music events for up to 200 people.

A registered charity, the club is self funding and is always looking for support from local businesses to help it add new courses such as video production and live sound engineering.

The club is open during term time on Mon, Wed and Fri 6.45–8.30pm.Tofindoutmore email [email protected] or visit www.themusicvenue.co.uk

Learn a language: Speaking even a few words of another language is an achievement and appreciated by others in foreign climes. If you are booking a holiday, buying property abroad or going overseas for business, a Tees Achieve course could help you. Ten week holiday courses in French, Spanish, Greek and Italian start in May – no prior knowledge needed. For details call (01642) 527904 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk

Burn to CD!

A new exhibition at Saltburn’s ArtsBank marks the centenary of one the area’s most iconic landmarks – the Transporter Bridge.

It displays objects documenting the construction of the bridge as well as watercolours, photographs and other images by local artists. The gallery is open Mon – Sat 10am-5pm (closed Wednesday) and Sunday 11am-5pm – for details call (01287)625300orvisitwww.artsbank.co.uk

A consultation was nearing completion as Stockton News was going to print to find local people’s views on the next phase of major improvements to the bridge, with plans to develop it as a key tourist destination.

The Grade 2* listed Transporter, a spectactular landmark on the River Tees, is one of only a handful of working examples in the world and links Port Clarence with Middlesbrough.

Proposals include glass viewing lifts allowing visitors

to experience trips to the top and improvements to the walkway as well as alterations to the existing motor room and Winding house.

The bridge is already attracting record numbers of thrill-seekers looking to take on the UK’s only bridge bungee challenge.

Last year more than 1,600 braved the dizzying 160ft plunge from the top and the Bridge is becoming a major attraction for bungee enthusiasts from as far afield as Japan, Australia and the USA, raising in a cool £77,000 for charities and good causes.

More than 5,400 spectators turned out to watch their loved ones take the plunge, generatingaround300overnight stays in local B&B and hotel accommodation in 2010 alone – a significant contribution to the local economy.

During the year the Bridge alsoplayedhosttosome300abseilsand30schoolvisits,and was the subject of some 20 talks around the Tees Valley by the experts who maintain and run it.

Transporter centenary celebrations

What’s in your garage? If you are the proud owner of any type of vintage vehicle whether it’s a car, cycle, van, lorry, bus, military vehicle or stationary engine, why not show it off? Stockton Council’s events team is sending out an open invitation to come along to the annual Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle show as it returns to Preston Park on 25 – 26 June. For an Exhibitor’s Entry Form call (01642)[email protected]


There’s nothing like live music to feed the soul and lift the sprits – and we are fortunate to have not only first-rate music and art venues like Arc and the Georgian Theatre but also some great pub venues, often right on your doorstep.

What’s more, between all these different venues there is so much on offer for every conceivable musical taste – you could see something different every day of the week whether it’s rock, jazz, indie, classical, folk, punk or whatever.

EasterSaturday–23April–willseefourtopvenuesjoining forces to bring first class live music to the town in ‘Stockton Calling’. ARC, The Georgian Theatre and Ku Bar, plus a new stage in The Sun Inn, are showcasing a selection of the best local and touring bands. You can catch local band from Thornaby, Cattle & Cane (pictured below), whose new CD is out on April 1.

Headlining are bouyant Dundee rockers The View and, although the full line-up is still to be confirmed, you can find updates on facebook – just search for ‘Stockton Calling’ or for ‘Arc Stockton’. Tickets cost £12 advance or £14 on the door – you can buy them online at www.arconline.co.uk and from ARC Box Office on (01642) 525199. Georgian Theatre – (01642) 606525 or visit www.teesmusicalliance.org.uk

ARC features a selection of the best local and touring bands on the scene with Teesside’s Wildcats of Kilkenny celebrating their 20th anniversary in ARC with a series of gigs. Another local hero Vin Garbutt makes an appearance on Saturday 5 March. Remember Right Said Fred? They are gracing the stage at ARC on Friday 6 May. Visit www.arconline for more info.

The Georgian Theatre is one of Stockton’s oldest, most atmospheric venues. It hosts music and comedy and has an eclectic mix of events coming up as punk rock returns with EdTudorPoleon30AprilandIncaBabieson11June,with

999 scheduled to storm the stage on 2 July, while February saw the launch of a brand new JUKEBOX night showcasing new and emerging local talent.

Pubs can also be a great place to hear live music in ‘intimate’ settings where you literally can get close up to the musicians!

Stockton has several established venues. Ku Bar hosts original music on Fridays and tribute bands on Saturdays, while the Sun Inn in Stockton boasts the region’s longest running folk club – 40 years! – every Monday night.

You can pop along to the Masham in Hartburn Village, Stockton on the first Monday of every month when there’s an unplugged open-mic night. Coming up on Bank Holiday weekends there’s live music on the Sunday evenings. Watch out for their special ticketed event on Sunday May 29 when ‘Mashstock’ presents live bands all day in support of Butterwick Hospice. For more info and tickets call (01642) 645526.

Yarm has a great selection of venues offering live music. The Cleveland Bay holds blues nights every two weeks with Osbournes on Thursdays and the George and Dragon on Tuesdays with single singers as well as bands.

Pop into The Red Lion Norton which holds live music twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays with local and bands from out of the area.

The Swan in Billingham, as well as having a large ballroom there’s also a lounge where bands play every Thursday.

Don’t forget the weekend of 29 April – 2 May where there’s live music at Stockton Parish Church. The planned reopening of The Globe next year will also create a new, large music venue to attract top name artists to complementtheseexcellentlocalvenues.(Seepage3).

Keeping music live!

Hoist the Rag comedy is happening in April at the Georgian Theatre.

www.stockton.gov.uk


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Vibrate your way to fitness with the new Power Plate machines at Tees Active gyms at Splash, Thornaby Pavilion and Billingham Belasis. The machines transfer vibrations to muscles, activating reflexive contractions when users take up different positions to stretch, tone and strengthen targeted muscles. Giving a full-body workout in just 15-25 minutes, this type of training is popular with celebrities such as Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. For details call Belasis on (01642)560389,ThornabyPavilion on (01642) 528581 or Splash on (01642) 526251 or visit www.teesactive.co.uk

Stockton has a wealth of rich and interesting history, with its fair share of significant listed buildings and more.

Now a new Stockton Heritage Strategy document, by the Council, details the Borough’s most important historical features and conservation areas. It shows how they have been preserved and protected and proposes ways it can be enhanced for future generations.

Stockton is home to seven Grade I and almost 500 Grade II listed buildings, 11 conservation areas and eight scheduled monuments, which are of particular historical importance.

The Heritage Strategy will be formally launched in the summer. It is available now online at www.stockton.gov.uk/heritagestrategy Later this year residents can have their input on a new interactive on-line resource where they can have their input and chronicle their thoughts and memories.

Preserving our heritage

Yarm Bridge – one of eight scheduled monuments in the Borough

Every Wednesday and Saturday, until 23 April, everyone is welcome to come along to the Centre Square in Wellington Square Shopping Centre, in Stockton, (11am – 3.30pm) to see an exhibition showing design ideas by local young people for landmark artworks in the new Tees Heritage Park.

This work is the inspiration to artist in resident Keith Barrett and fellow artist Linda Watson who are interpreting the young people’s work into finished artists proposals and will be on hand to discuss the ideas. These will include art works constructed from earthworks, stone, timber and a proposal for a giant metal sculpture which would be a beacon

right at the centre of the park by the Queen Elizabeth Way. The Park will see environmental improvements on both sides of the river between Thornaby and Ingleby Barwick. Rob Gildersleeve, Centre Manager of Wellington Square Shopping Centre, said: “We welcome everyone to come along to the exhibition to see for themselves the wonderful ideas for Tees Heritage Park.”

The Friends of Tees Heritage Park (FTHP) are also asking residents to come up with ideas for a gateway

sculpture in a competition called ‘Inspire’ to mark the boundaries of the new Heritage Park. Closing date for designs is midday on May 4 – to find out more visit www.fthp.org.uk

Funding for the project, from Community Spaces and Stockton Council, managed by Groundwork North East on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund, will also help to create new cycleways with a contribution from Natural England bringing the total investment into Phase1 to more than £600,000.

Art in the Park!

People in the park: Beginning on Sunday April 17 with an Easter Fair from 2pm, the Friends of Ropner Park are holding a host of summer events in the park. Come along, roll your eggs and visit the many stalls and attractions. There will be music on the bandstand and Morris dancers will add colour to the occasion. June sees the start of the Sunday afternoon bandstand programme, which runs throughout the summer – details are on the website www.forp.org.uk or in the Ropner Park cafe.

Good vibrations



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25 years after the Chernobyl nuclear power station exploded in northern Ukraine, causing a ten-day radioactive fire and expelling hundreds of tons of toxic material into the atmosphere, Stockton Parish Church is commemorating the disaster and raising funds for those involved.

A Music, Art and Flower Festival opens on Friday 29 April with a play, ‘Voices from Chernobyl’ at the church – tickets £8. On Saturday30Aprilthere’sapacked itinerary with live musicallday–admission£3and an evening concert from local choir Pieces of Eight, admission £8.

ASundayservice(10.30am–12.30pm)isfollowedbyAll Saints and Long Newton ChoralGroup(2–3.30pm).

The evening features the Jubilee Concert Band at 7pm costing £8 (half of which goes to Help for Heroes). Live music continues on Monday (from 10am) with refreshments all day, a ‘silent auction’until3pmandanevening Last Night of the Proms concert with the Fishburn Band from 6 – 8pm.

Earlier, Stockton Parish Church hosts a candle vigil on Monday 25 April with the candles lit at 8 pm.

For details, call Alan Wade on (01642) 580986 or visit www.chernobyl-children.org.uk or www.ccll.orguk/25

A weekend to remember

This picture from last year’s Stockton Community Carnival says everything about what the event is – bright, lively, colourful and always a fantastic sight.

Last year, more than a thousand local people joined in this highlight of the Stockton International Riverside Festival.

Now, you can grasp the opportunity to take part and

join in with this amazing celebration. We are looking for school, youth, community groups and individuals from across the Borough to take part in this year’s parade on Saturday 6 August.

The carnival is an incredible opportunity to take part in Stockton’s largest community celebration, which includes costume-making, dance and drumming.

If you would like to be part of the Carnival or to hear more about being involved, call Lyndsey Stephenson on (01642) 527696 or email [email protected]

Join in!

Could YOU choose the theme? Over the years there have been some fantastic Carnival themes and this year it’s up to you! Local people have the exciting opportunity to come up with the theme, so put on your thinking caps and send us your creative ideas. See the SIRF website www.sirf.co.uk for details of the competition, how to apply and what you can win.

Happy New Year: Toddlers and parents had fun celebrating the Chinese New Year at Fairfield Library – but the chopsticks were soon abandoned in favour of fingers! Left to right - James Rigg, Evie Vasey, Sonny Russell, Sonny Garthwaite, Neve Pack (with Joseph Butler behind), Roxie Hawkes, Elliot Nisbett, Ellie Ions, Alice Connelly.

If your beloved bike breaks down and you haven’t a clue how to fix it, The Hub in Stockton has a variety of half day and full day courses to demystify the art of bike mechanics.

From punctures to headsets, bottom brackets to freewheels, all will become clear and knowing how to maintain your bike will keep you safe and save you time and money.

A half day course in cycle maintenance and trail-side repair costs just £25. You could choose a one day intensive cycle maintenance course is £49 and there’s also a similar course specifically designed for ladies, also at £49.

For details call (01642) [email protected]

Easy when you know how

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The Government is holding a referendum in May on whether to change the voting system for electing MPs and asking whether they want to replace the existing ‘First Past The Post’ (FPTP) system with a method known as the ‘Alternative Vote’ (AV).

Every household will receive an information booklet explaining the key facts about the two systems. You don’t have to wait for your booklet to arrive. For an electronic copy visit www.stockton.gov.uk/referendum when it becomes available, or call (01642) 516196, or e-mail to [email protected]

Referendum – what’s the ‘Alternative’?

This year’s local elections take place on 5 May for Ward, Parish and Town councillors for the next four years.

Make sure you are on the electoral register as updated between August and November 2010. If you have moved since then, you need to re-register by the closing date of Thursday 14 April. There are three simple ways to vote – at a polling station, by post or by proxy. To find out more, or if you would like a form posted out, call (01642) 526196 or email [email protected] voter registration forms from www.stockton.gov.uk/registertovote

Be registered

A role to playThe Council is encouraging more people to think about standing as a future councillor. Anyone can become a councillor. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/makeadifference

This year will see the Council reduce spending by almost £14.5 million following Government funding cuts – and by £26 million over the next four years.

Its latest budget, which includes a one-year Council Tax freeze, comes despite the considerable savings and efficiencies already achieved –includingnearly£8.3million through efficiency reviews and other means – which will contribute towards it.

Much of these reductions follow reviews of all services, which are bringing significant savings.By2012/13,theCouncilwillsave£2.37mayear in ‘back office’ services – including sharing some with Darlington Council and reducing management posts – and £500,000 from better procurement.

Councillors’ allowances are frozen and employees’ pay is again unlikely to rise.

Transferring the museums service and some countryside parks to not-for-profit trusts could save more than £600,000 a year by 2013/14withoutaffectingservices. A similar move with the Council’s leisure centres achieved huge success and brought major improvements.

Closure of the Government’s Building Schools for the Future programme will save £800,000 a year budgeted for support costs. Reviews will save £210,000 a year through better targeting of youthservices,£330,000onschool meals and £150,000 in administering Blue Badge

parking passes and reviewing school crossing patrols.

Future reviews will save an estimated £400,000 by restructuring the council’s adult services division, £250,000 in highways maintenance, roads and footpathsby2012/13and£1millionby2013/14throughbringing services together under one roof, which could then release buildings or other assets for community use.

Subsidies for most ‘Boroughbus’ off-peak bus services will continue, supporting access to employment, education and healthcare. Charging concessionary pass holders 30pbefore9.30amonMondays – Fridays and removing a small number of lightly-used services, mainly on evenings and Sundays,willsave£360,000a year. Used by six per cent of ‘Boroughbus’ passengers, these journeys require a quarter of the subsidy.

Other reviews will save £3millioninservicessuchas community safety, festivals and events, waste management and Care For Your Area services.

The Government has cut £9.6 millionfromthe£30millionof grants which currently directly fund certain services, while the Council still awaits newsofafurther£2.3million.

This will be particularly challenging for children’s services funded by various individual grants, which face a£3millionreductionandthe Council is reviewing these to identify savings.

The Council continues to invest in major projects, such as the £1.9 million refurbishment of Stockton Central Library, particularly where these achieve longer-term savings. It will complete the £18.5 million regeneration of Billingham Forum and also support the restoration of Stockton’s Globe Theatre.

Support for voluntary and community organisations continues through an investment fund and funding is protected for advice services currently provided by the Stockton and District Advice and Information Service.

Neil Schneider, the Council’s Chief Executive, said: “The scale and pace of these cuts has created an extremely challenging financial climate for all councils, particularly as we also face the rising costs of caring for an aging population, CO2 taxes and the impact of the economy.

“An overall cash reduction of 19.7 per cent next year presents us with some very difficult decisions to stay within our means. We can no longer safeguard every service and this will regrettably impact on some employees.

“Nevertheless, we owe it to the residents and businesses of our Borough to make the best of a very tough settlement and we remain focused upon that.”

Stockton’s Council Tax, prior to Parish, Fire and Police precepts, remains at 2010/11 levels – for Band A (more than half the total homes) thiswillbe£814.35and£1,221.53atBandD.

Budget saves £14.5 million following funding cuts

cusfCentral

Focus On Your Area40

WARD SURGERIES

BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)www.stockton.gov.uk/bishopsgarthelmtreeward4 Apr Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm-6:30pm12 Apr Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm - 7:00pmCOUNCILLORS MRS SUZANNE FLETCHER MBE Tel: 01642 787652 Email: [email protected] Tel:01642785473Email: [email protected]

FAIRFIELD 6:00PM – 6:30PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/fairfieldward11 Apr Fairfield LibraryCOUNCILLORS MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914 BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409

GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward4 Apr Fairfield Library7 Apr Grays Road InstituteCOUNCILLORS PHILLIPBROUGHTON Tel:01642765325Email: [email protected] Tel:01642613258Email: [email protected]

HARDWICK WARD 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward1 Apr Hardwick Community Centre15 Apr Hardwick Community CentreCOUNCILLORS MRSLIZNESBITT Tel:01642601731BILL NOBLE Tel: 01642 671609

HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:30PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/hartburnward4 Apr Holy Trinity Rosehill CE Primary SchoolCOUNCILLORS TERRYLAING Tel:01642587356Email: [email protected] LUPTON Tel: 01642 587286Email: [email protected]

NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/newtownward1 Apr Newtown Community Resource Centre15 Apr Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre29 Apr Newtown Community Resource CentreCOUNCILLORS PAUL BAKER Tel: 01642 608406Email: [email protected] BOB GIBSON OBE Tel: 01642 614482Email: [email protected]

NORTHERN PARISHES 7:00PM - 8:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/northernparishesward7 Apr Wolviston Common RoomCOUNCILLORS JOHNGARDNERTel:01740645357Email: [email protected]

NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/nortonnorthward13 Apr NortonNorthCommunity& Resource Centre27 Apr Frederick Nattrass Primary SchoolCOUNCILLORS MAURICEFRANKLAND Tel:01642643443MRS KATH NELSON Tel: 01642 555729Email: [email protected]

NORTON SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/nortonsouthward8 Apr Lustrum Community HouseCOUNCILLORS BOB COOK TEL: 01642 890058Email: [email protected] STEVENELSONTEL:01642534417Email: [email protected]

NORTON WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward5 Apr The Education CentreCOUNCILLORS MRSANNCAINS Tel:01642555394Email: [email protected] Tel:01642555394Email: [email protected]

PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/parkfieldoxbridgeward7 Apr Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rix only)21 Apr Oxbridge Christian FellowshipCOUNCILLORS MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420ROY RIX Tel: 01642 674861Email: [email protected]

ROSEWORTH 5:30PM – 6:30PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward11 Apr Kiora Hall Youth & Community Centre COUNCILLORS JIM BEALL Tel: 01642 602510Email: [email protected] BARBARA INMAN Tel: 01642 586564Email: [email protected]

STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6:00PM – 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/stocktontowncentreward7 Apr The Willows Centre14 Apr Parkfield Community Centre21 Apr Victoria Community Centre28 Apr Cornerhouse Community Resource CentreCOUNCILLORS DAVIDCOLEMAN Tel:01642673952Email: [email protected] PAULKIRTON Tel:01642559331

April 2011 – May 2011http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/

Stockton Council has recognised the work of highly respected community activist Alex Bain (pictured) as he steps down after more than ten years as Chair of the Parkfield and Mill Lane Neighbourhood Management project.

Alex first moved into the town’sParkfieldarea30years ago. Quickly becoming involved with resident activities and was a founder member of the Parkfield

Residents Association, then later the Parkfield Community Centre.

He was presented with a framed picture of Stockton’s award-winning Infinity Bridge by the Mayor of Stockton.

Parkfield resident Jenny Bailes has taken over as Chair. If you would like to follow in Alex’s footsteps and become involved in your local community visit www.stockton.gov.uk/mycommunity

A sincere tribute

Getting his teeth into it: Stephen Featherstone supplies dental prosthetics, orthodontics, mouth guards and bleaching trays, no to mention denture repairs. Now, after 21 years working in Middlesbrough, Stephen, 48, has relocated his SAF Dental Laboratory to his home territory in new premises at Falcon Court, Preston Farm. Stephen works with many local dental practices and even as far afield as London. Call (01642) 226525 or email [email protected]

Page 41Stockton News March / April 2011cusfEastern

WARD SURGERIESApril 2011 – May 2011

http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/

INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6:00PM – 7:00PM (Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West)www.stockton.gov.uk/inglebybarwickeastward 6 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary SchoolMaltby & HiltonWardSurgeriesareheldfor30minutesprior to each Parish Council meeting in the Village Halls on an appointment only basis. Please contact Councillors Faulks, Harrington or Larkin to book an appointment. Residents are very welcome to attend the monthly Ward Surgery held in Ingleby BarwickCOUNCILLORS KEVIN FAULKS Tel: 01642 764874Email: [email protected] HARRINGTON Tel: 01642 764652Email: [email protected]

INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East)www.stockton.gov.uk/inglebybarwickwestward6 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary SchoolCOUNCILLORS KEN DIXON Tel: 01642 764650Email: [email protected] JEAN KIRBY Tel: 01642 762092Email: [email protected] PATTERSON Tel: 01642 764865Email: [email protected]

MANDALE & VICTORIAwww.stockton.gov.uk/mandalevictoriaward23 Apr RochesterCourtSheltered Housing 11:00am - 12.00 noonCOUNCILLORS TINALARGE Tel:01642671903Email: [email protected] WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176

STAINSBY HILLwww.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward16 Apr Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am - 12:00 noonCOUNCILLORS MRS EILEEN CRAGGS MBE Tel: 01642 764858Email: [email protected]:01642602375Email: [email protected]

VILLAGE 5:00PM – 6:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/villageward 11 Apr Thornaby PavilionCOUNCILLORS IAN DALGARNO Tel: 01642 882985MICK EDDY Tel: 01642 765919

Thornaby spring star, 14 year old Rachel Highfield, is celebrating after a double medal haul at the Northern Athletics Indoor Championships at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.

Rachel, a member of Gateshead Harriers AC and Tees Active Sports Academy, raced to victory in the Under-17 60-metre sprint with a personal best of 7.78 seconds.

The next day she was narrowly beaten to the gold

medal in the 200 metres as she came home in a time of 25.53seconds.

The St Patrick’s RC School pupil said: “I’m delighted to come home with a gold and silver medal and a personal best. I’ve been training hard this winter. Even the bad weather didn’t affect me too much as Tees Active Sports Academy made the sports halls at Thornaby Pavilion available for me to train in.”

For information on Tees Active Sports Academy call Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772 or visit www.teesactive.co.uk

Steel City success

Rachel gives it her all in the 60 metre sprint (Picture courtesy of Action Replay Photography)

The maxim of Paul Richardson and Darren Ashton, owners of Thornaby-based Doggiedazzler dog grooming, is to have ‘a fresh approach to grooming’.

Working from one of Stockton Council’s small business units on Gladstone Industrial Estate for the past three years has enabled the pair to set the salon up in an open plan design. Customers can wait while their dog is being groomed and talk to the groomer (and dog!).

The salon is light and fresh and designed to offer dogs a stress-free environment without a cage in sight. A bonus is free parking right outside and they also offer a service to pick up, groom and return your dog to home.

They also offer gift vouchers and discounts for multi-dogs as well as special products and grooming advice.

Check them out on Facebook or visit www.doggiedazzler.co.uk or call Paul Richardson on07739966561or(01642)616691.

Wash and brush up

Paul and Darren in the salon

Northern

cusf Focus On Your Area42

WARD SURGERIES

BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM - 7:30PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/billinghamcentralward13Apr BillinghamYouth& Community CentreCOUNCILLORS MRSANNMcCOY Tel:01642535604Email: [email protected]:01642371638Email: [email protected]

BILLINGHAM EASTwww.stockton.gov.uk/billinghameastwardNo April surgeryCOUNCILLOR MICKSTOKER Tel:01642371641Email: [email protected]

BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM - 7:30PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/billinghamnorthward11 Apr North Billingham Methodist ChurchCOUNCILLORS HILARY AGGIO Tel: 01642 565016Email: [email protected] LYNNE APEDAILE Tel: 01740 645216Email: [email protected] LECKONBY Tel: 01642 872896Email: [email protected]

BILLINGHAM SOUTH 6:00PM - 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/billinghamsouthward14 Apr Billingham Branch LibraryCOUNCILLORS MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717MICHAELSMITH Tel:01642371782Email: [email protected]

BILLINGHAM WEST 6:00PM - 7:00PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/billinghamwestward29 Apr Wolviston Court Community CentreCOUNCILLORS MRS MARY WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755MICK WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755


From pills to poodles: Billingham resident Carol Simmonds (pictured) is proud owner of her new mobile dog grooming business Barking Mad Groomers. Carol, who owns four West Highland white terriers, decided to change careers from a pharmacy assistant to begin dog grooming last August, with help from Five Lamps, Working Links, Business Link, Know How North East and Stockton Council to complete her training at Houghall College, Durham. Now up and running, she covers the whole variety of dog grooming services and will come to your home. To find out more, call her on (01642) 424244 or 07889 476217.

North Billingham Residents Association will be holding its AGM on Monday 18 April. Meetings, which start at 7pm and usually last one and a half hours, are held in the High Grange Community Centre, Billingham and are a good starting point to help improve your area. To find out more visit http://northbillra.webs.com/

Celebrations and awards took place in early March, at Northfield School and Sports College in Billingham. Highly talented and young sportsmen and women, who achieved unparalled success in a wide range of sports from across Teesside, were honoured at a special

presentation for their sporting achievements for 2010 at the Teesside Schools Sports Council Awards. The awards were presented by England, Manchester United and Middlesbrough football hero Garry Pallister - Garry pictured here on the far left.

Sporting achievement

Residents meeting

Page 43Stockton News March / April 2011cusfWestern

WARD SURGERIES

EAGLESCLIFFEwww.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward1 Apr Trinity Methodist Church 6:30-7:30pm19 Apr Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00 - 7:00pmCOUNCILLORS JOHN FLETCHER Tel: 01642 787652 Email: [email protected] LEWIS Tel: 01642 784910Email: [email protected] MAUREEN RIGG Tel: 01642 785689Email: [email protected]

WESTERN PARISHES www.stockton.gov.uk/westernparisheswardNo April surgeryCOUNCILLOR FREDSALT Tel:01740630771

YARM 6:00PM – 6:45PMwww.stockton.gov.uk/yarmward5 Apr Yarm LibraryCOUNCILLORS MRSJENNIEBEAUMONTTel:01642785304Email: [email protected] Tel:01642786346ANDREW SHERRIS Tel: 01642 786767Email: [email protected]


While the bitter winter affected many sports, Egglescliffe School pupil Chloe Loredo, 15, (pictured) not only competed against her rivals but also the elements.

Chloe, a member of Shildon Running and Athletics Club and Tees Sports Academy, finished in the top two at the North Eastern Cross Country Championships in South Shields earning

selection to represent the North East at the Inter counties championships in Birmingham. She was also training for the Northern Championships in Sunderland, the National Championships at Alton Towers and the English Schools’ Cross Championships in Nottingham.

To find out more about Tees Active Sports Academy call Academy Manager Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772 or visit www.teesactive.co.uk

Braving the elements

The annual award by Yarm’s Civic Society for 2010-11 was awarded to Yarm Town Hall. The award recognises areas of improved appearance in the town. The Society rewarded the painting of the building’s exterior, the beautiful flower displays in window boxes during the summer months and the eyecatchingdisplayboardswhichmarkedthebuilding’s300year anniversary, which all added to Yarm’s townscape.

Town Hall is the tops

The relaxing French game of boules is coming to Yarm thanks to two landscaping firms joining forces on a community project.

Unique Landscaping Building and Maintenance and Marshalls Plc are sponsoring the boules pitch being created by Yarm Town Council.

The pitch, thought to be the first of its kind in the region, will be all-weather and located on Snaith’s Field just

off Yarm High Street.

Work on the pitch is expected to be completed by Easter.

Martin Greenidge, from Unique, said: “As a local business, we thrive on working in the community, so being able to support such an unusual project is important to us.

“We loved the idea from the start and are looking forward to seeing local residents make good use of the pitch – hopefully during the sunny summer months.”

Going all French!

On A look at what’s going on around the Borough during

What’s

Regular

Events April

Making a Mess! Under 5s ClubEvery Tuesday including the school holidays Preston Hall Museum & Park 1pm-3pm Fun and games including a messy craft and story time with juice, biscuits and delicious fruit. Tea and coffee for the grown ups! Play groups and nursery groups are welcome. Book in advance. Special group activities can be arranged for group bookings. Free activity although 50p suggested donation per person for refreshments. Call 527820.

Let your kids get craftyFairfield Library parent & toddler group every Wednesday 10-11am and Friday 2-3pm during term time. Art and craft club for 5-8 year olds, Wednesday evenings fortnightly 5.30-6.30pm; Saturday mornings 10.30am-12 noon; 9-13 year olds meet fortnightly, tel 527962.

Northfield SportsdromeBillingham, every Sat morning during term time for youngsters for football, basketball, golf and much more, call 07598 268876 or visit [email protected]

Stockton Parent SupportEvery Wed during term time Stockton Parent Support offers a new activity for 0-4 years old children with additional and complex needs. Sure Start Children’s Centre, High Flyers, Thornaby 12 - 2pm, tel 07548968359 or email [email protected]

Books and banterEvery Wednesday, Stockton Central Library, 10.30 – 12 noon. Informative talks, guest speakers, local history, tel 526522.

Shakespeare Reading GroupFor details email [email protected]

Colouring clubsRoseworth Library every day except Wednesday 3-6pm, tel 528098.Billingham Library, every Saturday 10.30-11.30am, tel 527895. Thornaby Library, Westbury St. every day 3-7pm, tel 528150.

Homework help sessionsThornaby Library, Westbury St. Friday 3-5pm, tel 528150.

Hula fitness for 5-11 yearsIngleby Barwick Community Centre, Haresfield Way each Monday 4.30-5.30pm, £2 per session. To book tel 524599.

Hula fitness for familiesNorthfield School & Sports College (was Billingham Campus), Billingham. Mondays 6-7pm. Also for 5yrs plus, tel 524599.

Funky FeetNewlife Children’s Centre, Billingham2-4 year olds 1.30-2.15pm £1 per session (inc fruit), tel 524599.

Yummy mummiesPort Clarence Children’s CentreEvery Tuesday (hols may affect opening times – check with venue), 1.30-2.30pm. Meet like minded parents - swap parenting tips, tel 528914.

Dads’ group for under 5sFootsteps Children’s Centre, Ochil Tce, Billingham, 10am-12.30pm. First Saturday of every month for fun activities. Mums can attend the chill out zone for a cuppa, tel 528977.

History walks on Stockton’s heritageStockton town centre. To book email [email protected] or tel 528130.

Thornaby gaming groupThornaby Library, Westbury St. every Friday 3-5pm. PS3 and Wii. Suitable for 8-18 years, booking advised, tel 528150.

Boys BrigadeStockton Baptist Tabernacle every Monday, 7.15-9pm. Suitable for 11-15 years, 50p per session, tel 602478.

Making a Mess! Under 5s ClubPreston Hall Museum & ParkEvery Tuesday inc school hols 1pm-3pm.Fun, games and messy craft and story time. Play groups and nursery groups welcome. Please book in advance. Special activities can be arranged for group bookings. Free - although 50p suggested donation per person for refreshments, tel 527820.

Parent and toddler groupNorton Library, every Friday in term time. 10-11am.Enjoy stories and songs. Free with refreshments, tel 528019.

Wednesday talksNorton Library, every first Wednesday of the month, 3pm. Guest speaker and refreshments, free, tel 528019.

Crafty Kids ClubNorton Library every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am, free. tel 528019.

Scrabble groupNorton Library, every Wednesday 1pm, tel 528019.

Eggsplore your decorating!Come on kids it’s time to get your thinking caps on and decorate an egg! The traditional art of decorating eggs at Easter is being preserved in a free competition by the Hamper Merchants based in Regency Mall, Stockton. All of the eggs will be displayed in the shop window from April 9 until 22 April and every entry will receive an Easter gift!!

1 AprilWhat’s up? Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7.30pm. Find out what stars and planets are visible in the sky, tel (01740) 630544 or email [email protected]

2 April ParkMade: Blacksmithing taster workshopPreston Hall Museum & Park 9.00am-12noon or 1.00pm-4.00pm. £30 per person includes all materials. Lee Knibbs will introduce you to the time old tradition of blacksmithing. Learn about the history of the craft. Make item to take away. All materials provided. Call 527820 to book.

2 April Big Brew Coffee Morning10am North Billingham Methodist Church, Marsh House Ave, Billingham. Learn all about Fairtrade, plus exhibition on climate change and greenhouse gases. Come along to find out more.

8 AprilCaDAS meeting Wynyard Planetarium. Free to members – non members £1.50/adult £1 child. For more information call (01740) 630544 or email [email protected]

9 and 10 April ParkMade: Traditional Stained Glass Taster DayPreston Hall Museum & Park 10am-4pm. £50 includes materials & light refreshments. Introductory workshop with Simon Fitton into the fascinating tradition of stained glass. Students will work on a glass panel, learning about the varied techniques and materials used to create these stunning works! Tel 527820 to book.

13 April Whiz Kid Wednesday: Terrific Tiles! Preston Hall Museum & ParkActivity times: 10.15am-11.00am, 11.15am -12noon, 1.15am – 2.00pm or 2.15 – 3pm. A fun family workshop for children all ages. Using specialist paints and pens children will decorate a ceramic tile to take home. All materials are provided. Free, however a suggested donation of 50p per child for materials. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in workshop - when sessions are full, colour coded tickets will be issued. Tel 527375 for more details.

14 April Story Time! With Chris BostockPreston Hall Museum & Park Activity times: 10.30-11.30am, 11.30-12.30pm, 1.30-2.30pm and 2.30-3.30pm. Explore Museum & Park through fantastic stories. If warm weather some of this activity will take place outside. Free although - donations gratefully received. Suitable for all ages, booking not required but spaces limited. Tel 527375.


April to June 2011

www.stockton.gov.uk

May

June

14 AprilEaster CraftsNorton Library – 2.30 – 3.30pm have fun making Easter crafts.Book in advance as spaces limited. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Tel 528019.

15 April Family Friday: Dancing Flower Pots! Preston Hall Museum & Park 10.15am-11.00am, 11.15am -12noon, 1.15am – 2.00pm or 2.15 – 3pm. Children create their own dancing flower pot to take home. All materials are provided. Free but suggested donation of 50p per child for materials. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in workshop. When sessions are full, colour coded tickets will be issued. Tel 527375.

15 AprilMarvels of the MoonWynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7.30pm Learn all about the moon, telecope viewings (weather permitting), tel (01740) 630544 or email [email protected]

15 AprilButterwick Hospice Easter TombolaNorton Library 10am – 12 noon. Gifts and novelties on sale and a lucky dip! Tel 528019.

16 April ParkMade: First Days of Spring Cookery Demonstrations Preston Hall Museum & Park 11.00am – 3.00pm, free drop in event. Deborah Batley demonstrates new season crops, including recipes using asparagus, rhubarb and thyme. Recipe cards will be available on the day and visitors will be able to taste some of the produce. Tel 527375.

17 AprilRopner Park - Easter Fair. Funfairs, go carts, egg rolling and many stalls and attractions. Music on the bandstand and the ever popular Morris Dancers. bandstand programme will commence in June and will run throughout the summer on Sunday afternoons. Visit www.forp.org.uk or in the Ropner Park cafe.

20 April Whiz Kid Wednesday: Rocking Rabbits! Preston Hall Museum & Park Activity times: 10.15am-11.00am, 11.15am -12noon, 1.15am – 2.00pm or 2.15 – 3pm. Children will make a set of rocking animals (bunny rabbit, chick and a lamb) in this fun arts and craft workshop.Free but a suggested donation of 50p per child for materials. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in workshop. When the sessions are full, colour coded tickets will be issued. Call 527375 for more details.

21 April Story Time! With Adrian SpendlowPreston Hall Museum & Park Activity times: 10.30-11.30am, 11.30-12.30pm, 1.30-2.30pm and 2.30-3.30pm. Free although donations to the Museum are gratefully received. Suitable for all ages, booking not required but spaces limited. Tel 527375.

22 April Family Friday: Bags of fun! Preston Hall Museum & Park. 10.15am-11.00am, 11.15am -12noon, 1.15am – 2.00pm or 2.15 – 3pm. Design and create your very own bag to take home and put all your lovely chocolate eggs in. All materials provided inc special treat. Free, however a suggested donation of 50p per child for materials. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in workshop. When sessions are full, colour coded tickets will be issued. Tel 527375.

23 AprilAlpine Garden Society’s National Show.Ian Ramsay C of E School (North Site), Fairfield, 12 Noon - 4pm. Admission £2-00 per person – children free (with an adult).

23 April Good Crafternoon!Preston Hall Museum & Park1-4pm, £10 per person (inc materials). Join textile artist Leanne Pearce in this fun textile craft workshop based around the Museum’s collections and surrounding parkland. Booking required, suitable for adults and older children. Call 527820.

Fridays 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 AprilPublic Observing 9-10.30pmWynyard Planetarium. Tel (01740) 603544.

29 AprilTelescope Club7.30-9.00pm - Wynyard Planetarium. Tel (01740) 630544.

29 April – May 2Stockton Parish Church Music, Art & Flower FestivalTo commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster and raise funds for the people affected. For details see page 38 or call Alan Farish on (01642) 580986.

30 April -l 2nd MayTeesside Garden ShowPreston Park. Come along and see a variety of plants and flowers to buy.

2 MayAll the fun of the fayre!A family fun day - Norton Green. Butterwick Hospice holds its 25th annual May Fayre. Fun begins at 10am. Bags of entertainment with local dance groups and gymnastic clubs. Bouncy castle and slide and much more! Refreshments in Village Hall. Call 628930.

4 MayThe pubs and yards of Stockton Borough Council Norton Library 3pm. Elizabeth Marsh from Stockton Heritage Partnership gives an illustrated talk.

6 MayWonders of the universeWynyard Planetarium 7.30-9.30pm.

7 May ParkMade: Wood Crafting Taster Day Preston Hall Museum & Park10.00am-4.00pm £65 per person including materials, tools and refreshments. Bill Oakes demonstrates basic green woodcraft skills. Students can use traditional pole lathe turning techniques and much more. Call 527820 to book.

10 MayLocal History MonthNorton Library 10.30amTwo hour walk. Join Howard Ward to find out more about the iron works and history behind Big Ben. Meet Norton Library. Not suitable for wheelchair users. Refreshments afterwards

at library. Free but booking essential. Tel 528019. Also book signing at 1.00pm – Alan Betteney, local historian launches his new book ‘A history of the ironworks at Norton and the story of Big Ben. Books at discounted prices. Tel 528019.

13 MayCaDAS meeting Wynyard Planetarium. Free to members – non members £1.50/adult £1 child. Call (01740) 630544 or email [email protected]

14 May ParkMade: Blacksmithing taster workshopPreston Hall Museum & Park 9.00am-12noon or 1.00pm-4.00pm. £30 per person includes all materials. Learn about the history of the craft and make your own item to take away. All materials provided. Call 527820 to book.

19 MayNorton Library – 3pmIllustrated talk by Alan Betteney, local historian. Refreshments and chance to buy his book at discounted price. Tel 528019.

19 MayWonders of the universeWynyard Planetarium 7.30-9.30pm.

21 May ParkMade: First Days of Spring Cookery Demonstrations Preston Hall Museum & Park 11.00am – 3.00pm, free drop in event. Deborah Batley demonstrates recipes using asparagus, rhubarb and thyme and more. Recipe cards will be available on the day and visitors can taste some of the produce. Call 527375.

22 MayGrow Your Own: A Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden Family Fun DayPreston Hall Museum & Park 11.00am – 3.00pm.After a simple introduction to basic archaeology from renowned archaeologist Robin Daniels, children can aid this ongoing excavation, plant seeds and watch them grow at home. Free. Donations to the Museum gratefully received. Ideal for ages 3-11. Drop in activity, booking not required but spaces limited. Tel 527375.

28-30 MayFins and ChromeAmerican car enthusiasts will be gathering at Preston Park. There will also be vehicles from British car clubs, a bar and food court, trade stalls and fairground rides. To find out more visit www.neacc.co.uk

1 JuneMission to SeafarersNorton Library 3pmColin Warswick, seafarers Padre gives a talk.

3 JuneSpring CraftsNorton Library 2.30 – 3.30pm – come and make some springtime crafts. Book in advance as spaces limited. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Tel 528019.

Documents

Stockton News March/April 2011