ABC Magazine: North Edition - Feb/Mar 2023

PUZZLES INSIDE

SPRING STROLL

Blow the cobwebs away with a scenic walk

CHECK YOUR VOTER ID

Don’t let ID issues prevent your voice from being heard

SPEEDY PROGRESS

Northumberland

Train Line Update

RISING THREAT

Council plea to stop harmful balloon and lantern releases

THE

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WELCOME TO ABC MAGAZINE

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All information correct at the time of going to press. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other clause. R Wilson Advertising does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission of the publisher.

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Cover image: Bothal Woods, Morpeth by ChickenWing Jackson

NORTHUMBERLAND LINE LATEST

The railway between Ashington and Newcastle used to run both passenger and freight services until the Beeching cuts in the 1960s. Since then, freight trains have continued to use the line, primarily serving Lynemouth Power Station. The lack of passenger railway services in the area has contributed to local congestion due to car and bus travel being the only viable forms of transport for many.

The Northumberland Line will bring passenger trains back into service between Ashington and Newcastle. The line will stop at 6 local stations and is still on track to be completed and running by the end of this year.

The reintroduction of passenger services on the line has been an aspiration of Northumberland County Council for many years, and the current political, social, economic and rail industry context means that it can now be successfully delivered. As a result of being awarded development funding from the DfT, the council has been working alongside partners to develop the scheme.

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR?

In March 2022, the last planning permission required for the construction of the six new stations was received, and in June 2022 the Government approved the Transport and Works Act Order to allow the closure of level crossings, acquisition and use of land, as well as well as further work along the line.

With these important milestones reached, more enabling works began along the Northumberland Line. Below is a summary of some of the works completed so far.

● Site clearance is well underway - vegetation has been removed at various locations, and the Boots building in Bedlington and Arden House in Newsham have been demolished.

● Temporary site compounds have been established, with the main base for the construction team at the Newsham station site.

● Mining void works have gotten underway. This has included grouting (filling) at Seaton Delaval to make it safe to build on the land, and ground investigations at Northumberland Park and Bedlington to confirm if any grouting is required. In the New Year, these works will continued.

● The history of the area has played a key part in our works, with archaeologists working at the site of Newsham station unearthing the site of an Iron Age settlement.

● Track upgrades and renewals are well underway

along the line, with 8km of works now completed.

● New infrastructure has been put in place, with three new underpasses under the line being constructed.

● New train drivers have been recruited by Northern. 20 train drivers that will operate services on the line are now undertaking training.

● Test services have started. These are providing residents, local schools and business leaders from Cobalt Business Park with a chance to ride the Northumberland Line and see works in progress in advance of the line opening.

CONTRIBUTING TO COMMUNITIES

Local communities and businesses are at the heart of this project, and they are actively encouraged to get involved in the scheme. Below are just some of the key activities that have taken place to date:

● Cultural Programme launched, with hoardings installed in Ashington featuring local school children.

● Five construction apprenticeships have been created.

● Over 750 hours of staff time has been dedicated to social value initiatives to date, including over 70 hours of community liaison and over 140 hours of school engagement activity.

● 3 Institute of Civil Engineers QUEST scholarships completed and various work experience placements offered.

● £10 million of funding granted by the North of Tyne Combined Authority, to develop the Northumberland Line ten point plan – an ambitious and achievable package of projects that aligns to the Northumberland Line Economic Corridor strategic vision and the scale of the opportunity afforded by the reopening of the Line.

● Delivery of a series of public drop-in events in

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station locations, allowing local people to meet the project team face to face.

● Archaeology family event hosted during October half term at Newsham Primary school.

● £95,000 spent on local businesses through our principal contractor, Morgan Sindall.

● Targeted programme of local refugee support launched in May.

● Christmas raffle raising £1300 for local charities Community Food Friendship, Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter and Pathways 4 All.

SUMMARY OF WORKS BY STATION

Northumberland Park

Surveys and ground investigation works have started. These will help confirm the make-up of the ground, which will in turn assist in finalising the construction methodology for the station, including whether any mining remediation is needed.

Seaton Delaval

Works completed so far include setting up a site compound and mining remediation, which will soon be completed. Following this, works will pause until Spring 2023.

Newsham

Works at Newsham station began with the demolition

of Arden House, to the south of South Newsham Road (A1061), to create space for the new station and car park and the setup of the main works compound. The next stage of works will see piles being inserted into the ground.

Blyth Bebside

Preliminary work at Blyth Bebside station has included clearing the land of vegetation ahead of the construction.

Bedlington

Works began at Bedlington in October with the demolition of the former Boots building, followed by exploratory works relating to historic mining works in the area, to confirm the need for grouting (filling). To the south of the Bedlington station site, construction works to reinstate the disused railway sidings at Furnace Way have started.

Ashington

Works are underway in Ashington with the demolition of the old station platform and construction of the new platform, which is now underway. The first phase of track renewal works has also recently completed.

For more information, and all the very latest updates, visit www.northumberlandline.uk

VOTERS URGED TO CHECK THEY HAVE THE RIGHT ID TO VOTE

The UK Government has introduced a requirement for voters to show photo ID when voting at a polling station, and it will apply to all future local elections, referendums, recall petitions and Police and Crime Commissioner elections from May 2023 and all UK Parliamentary General Elections from October 2023.

These new requirements will not affect electors who vote by post. Voters are being asked to check in good time, whether they have an accepted form of ID and to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate if they don’t.

WHAT ID CAN I USE?

You’ll need one of the following types of photo ID to vote:

· a UK or Northern Ireland photocard driving licence (full or provisional)

a driving licence issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Isle of Man or any of the Channel Islands

a UK passport

· a passport issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or a Commonwealth country

· a PASS card (National Proof of Age Standards Scheme)

a Blue Badge

a biometric residence permit (BRP)

a Defence Identity Card (MOD form 90)

a national identity card issued by the EU, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

· a Northern Ireland Electoral Identity Card

· a Voter Authority Certificate

· an Anonymous Elector’s Document

You can also use one of the following travel passes as photo ID when you vote:

an older person’s bus pass

a disabled person’s bus pass

· an Oyster 60+ card

· a Freedom Pass

· a Scottish National Entitlement Card (NEC)

a 60 and Over Welsh Concessionary Travel Card

a Northern Ireland concessionary travel pass

The photo on your ID must look like you. You can still use your ID even if it has expired. To find out more about the photo ID you’ll need, head to www.gov.uk/ how-to-vote/photo-id-youll-need.

WHAT IF I DONT HAVE PHOTO ID?

If you do not have a type of photo ID that allows you to vote, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate. It’s free to apply. You’ll need a recent, digital photo of yourself and your National Insurance number.

You can still apply if you do not have a National Insurance number. You’ll need to provide other documents to prove your identity, for example, a birth certificate, bank statement and utility bill.

To find out more about applying for a Voter Authority Certificate, head to www.gov.uk/apply-forphoto-id-voter-authority-certificate.

Voters can apply online at nland.cc/ID or by completing a paper form and sending this to their local council’s electoral services team.

Mark Crawford, Elections Manager for Northumberland County Council said:

“This is a new national requirement and in association with the work of the Electoral Commission, we will be doing everything we can to raise awareness of the need for Voter ID at all future elections.

“Anyone voting at a polling station in England will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot papers. While there are no scheduled elections planned in 2023 in Northumberland, we would advise everyone to check they have appropriate ID and if not to apply for the free Voter Authority Certificate if needed, as soon as possible.”

If you have a query regarding Voter ID, or need help applying, you can also contact the county council’s election team on 01670 624811 or by emailing elections@northumberland.gov.uk

For the first time, voters will need to show photo ID when they vote in person at elections in England.

COUNCIL PLEA TO STOP HARMFUL BALLOON AND LANTERN RELEASES

Northumberland County Council is appealing to the public to use other alternatives to balloon and lantern releases for events and memorials which can have a devastating impact on wildlife and the environment.

While balloon or lantern releases can be carried out with good intent, they also have a long and devastating impact on the environment, and the council is strongly discouraging people from doing it.

After they’re out of sight, they eventually fall back to earth –along with any string and plastic attachments.

Wildlife may eat parts of sky lanterns or deflated balloons when they come down on land or in the sea.

Sharp parts can damage an animal’s digestive system and balloons may block it and prevent them from feeding, strangle them or drown them.

Animals and birds may also get caught up in fallen wire frames or string and suffer injury and distress in struggling to get free, or starve to death.

Deflated balloons can also look like jellyfish. And because some sea turtles feed almost exclusively on jellyfish, balloons are easily mistaken for their regular meal. Once ingested, the ensuing damage can become fatal if not caught early – if it’s caught at all.

Although biodegradable options are available, these still take months or even years to break down and can still cause horrendous painful deaths to animals. Meanwhile, lanterns set off in warmer months can travel long distances and have been known to cause a fire risk.

The council is encouraging people to use other less damaging ways to pay tribute to a loved

one such as planting a tree or flower bed, using jam jar lights, or organising a memorial walk for a chosen charity.

Northumberland County Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet member for local services said: “While many are aware of the environmental impacts of balloons and lanterns, a few well-meaning people and organisations do still release them - but as a council we strongly discourage this. People assume the term biodegradable means harmless but this is simply not the case. No balloon is

Balloons can block the digestive system of wildlife and prevent them from feeding, strangle them or drown them.

environmentally friendly.

“We do appreciate this is a sensitive and emotional issue as balloon releases are often organised to mark the death of a loved one. However we also recognise the concerns of farmers, environmentalists, biologists and animal lovers, and their work to raise awareness of and tackle this problem.

“It is council policy to decline any requests from individuals

and organisations who contact us wanting to have organised balloon or lantern releases from our parks and open spaces. What we are asking is for people to use alternatives which not only create a lasting memory but do so without detriment to the local environment or wildlife.”

Safer & environmentally friendly alternatives to balloon releases:

● Plant a tree

As well as being extremely environmentally friendly, this can be a lasting memorial and a place to visit and look after for generations to come

● Hold a candle lit vigil

Candles are beautiful way to commemorate a loved one. Have guests light a candle and sing or share stories or poems together.

● Create a Memorial Garden

Start a container garden or flower bed. Choose plants and flowers to honor a loved one.

● Organize A Memorial Walk

If the person you love loved the outdoors, why not gather together and walk their favourite route.

DATES FOR THE DIARY

Ten of the biggest and best events being held right here in the North East in 2023

THE LATE SHOWS

Friday 19 and Saturday 20 May

Get ready for a cultural extravaganza in Newcastle and Gateshead with “The Late Shows”! One of the biggest events in Newcastle and Gateshead's cultural calendars, The Late Shows will take place across two nights in May.

The award-winning free late-night culture crawl features open art studios, music, performance, galleries, museums and a host of the most bizarre and intriguing interactive events. The shows are facilitated by Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums (TWAM), usually featuring over 40 cultural venues staged across Newcastle and Gateshead. The two-day event, now in its 15th year, is a well-established part of the cultural calendar in the North East, and allows participants to curate their own experience from the vast choice on offer.

Join the fun on Friday, 19 May in the Ouseburn area and continue the adventure on Saturday, 20 May in central Newcastle, the Quayside, and Gateshead. The line-up of participating venues will be announced soon, so stay tuned to thelateshows.org.uk for details!

RUGBY LEAGUE MAGIC WEEKEND

Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 June

The 16th Magic Weekend will once again take place at St James' Park in June.

2023 is the seventh year in which this unmissable sporting event will be hosted in Newcastle. The event, held over 2 days, gives you the chance to see all 12 Super League teams in action, opening with the Salford Reds taking on Hull KR at 1.30 pm on Saturday, concluding with Hull FC facing up against the Warrington Wolves at 5pm on Sunday

Secure your tickets by visiting www superleague.co.uk/tickets/magicweekend

SAM FENDER AT ST JAMES' PARK

Friday 9 and Saturday 10 June

On what is now known as the 'Geordie Bank Holiday', local lad Sam Fender will take to the stage for two sell-out shows at St James' Park. Taking place over the Blaydon Races weekend, the event is one of the biggest in 2023. Although tickets were snapped up in minutes, the city will most definitely be buzzing this weekend and is certainly worth a visit to soak up the atmosphere.

THE HOPPINGS

Friday 16 - Saturday 24 June

The world renowned Hoppings is a firm favourite in the annual Geordie event calendar. The Hoppings is billed as Europe's biggest and best travelling funfair, with over 300 rides and attractions, and has become a regular feature on the North East's summer entertainment calendar since it first began in 1882.

A regular favourite with families and visitors across the North East, and now has over 140 years of history in Newcastle, The Hoppings is a great day and night out, filled with thrills and spills on Newcastle's Town Moor. hoppingsfunfairs.com

COASTELLA

Friday 30 June- Sunday 2 July

This brand new festival, with a clever play on words, will land in North Shields this summer. Championing new original music, Coastella will showcase the best live acts the region has to offer, alongside national touring artists, in an outdoor festival in the very heart of our beautiful coast. Artists already announced include Futureheads, Bear Park, Chintzy Stetson, Jango Flash and many more. www.wegottickets.com/f/12916

MOUTH OF TYNE FESTIVAL

Thursday 6 - Sunday 9 July

Since its inception in 2005, the Mouth of the Tyne Festival has grown and grown and returns this July for a weekend of live music and international street theatre in Tynemouth. Past acts include Sam Fender, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Rick Astley and the Proclaimers. The festival is sure to sell out, so make sure you keep an eye out for announcements on tickets, line ups and fringe events! mouthofthetynefestival.com

LOOSEFEST

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July

The Black Eyed Peas, Example and local hero Patrick Topping headlined the 2022 event on Newcastle’s Town Moor. With a line up like that, 2023 certainly has a lot to live up to!

The festival unites the city with music, drinks and lots of dancing. Keep an eye out for the line up which is set to be announced soon. www skiddle com/festivals/Loosefest

KYNREN

Saturdays from 29 July

- 9 September

Kynren - An Epic Tale of England brings history to life with blockbuster open-air performances. Rebellions, wars, magic, majesty, celebration and heartache are vividly brought to ground-shaking life in a dazzling outdoor-theatre spectacular. Spread over six Saturdays this summer, this is definitely one not to be missed, a dazzling night for the whole family. For more information, and to book your tickets, visit www.11arches. com/kynren

NE1 RESTAURANT WEEK

August 2023 (dates TBC)

Twice a year, eateries in Newcastle and Gateshead take part in NE1’s Restaurant Week, the next one taking place in August. For a whole week, you can enjoy mouth watering meals for a fraction of the price. Each restaurant crafts a bespoke Restaurant Week menu for either £10pp, £15pp or £20pp. It’s the perfect way to discover a new restaurant in Newcastle or enjoy an old favourite at an even better price. www.getintonewcastle.co.uk/ne1events/restaurant-week

GREAT NORTH RUN

Sunday 10 September

The world's biggest half marathon returns this September, and Newcastle will once again welcome around 60,000 runners who will follow the famous city to coast route, being cheered on by crowds for the entire 13 mile run.

The ballot has just closed, but there is no better way to spend a Sunday morning than cheering the tens of thousands of runners along and sampling the atmosphere of this unique event.

www.greatrun.org

PLANS ANNOUNCED FOR MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN CRAMLINGTON PARK

Cramlington Town Council has announced their plans for a major development of Alexandra Park. This follows the recent transfer to the Town Council from Northumberland County Council of the area that contains the skate park, a seating area and a dilapidated outdoor gym.

As Councillor Helen Morris, Chair of the Community and Youth Committee explains: “We have long been aware of the poor state of facilities in that area of Alexandra Park but until now we have not been in a position to improve them.”

“I can now reveal that we are investing over £175,000 at the site. This includes a fantastic adventure play area which will include a zip wire and a range of latest equipment including a spinning carousel, space nets, climbing challenges and a fitness trail.”

“We held a consultation to ask youngsters what they wanted, we listened and here we are with plans drawn up for a fantastic activity area. We have already been working on a new dog park which is nearing completion.”

“This fenced area will provide an area to train, walk and socialise pets and contain new seating and bins. The creation of this area follows a public consultation which demonstrated a clear support for such an area and we liaised with the County Council’s animal welfare team and local charity Dog’s First to identify requirements.”

“These latest developments follow on from the creation of the £100,000 Annie’s Green play area for younger children and will enable us to achieve our vision for the area to become a destination for families, with something for everyone.”

The area will be maintained by Cramlington Town Council who will be responsible for the grass cutting, litter picking and maintenance of the assets.

GET ON BOARD IN 2023

Local coach tourism expert Graham Wright of United Group Travel has worked in the industry as a driver for many years, the last few spent as a tour driver for a local North East coach holiday company, until the pandemic had a catastrophic effect on the industry, with many companies going out of business.

Over the years, on his numerous tours both abroad and in the UK, Graham built up a fantastic relationship with many of his passengers, and he is lucky to call many of them friends. They really appreciated Graham’s vast experience and knowledge of the places he visited, to the extent that a lot of passengers started asking who the driver would be before they actually booked a tour with the company. It was during a conversation with one of his friends that the question was asked about starting his own company and running his own holidays.

Graham has put all his years’ experience and knowledge to good use while planning his exclusive tours. All the tours are exceptional value for money, and he only selects the best-established quality hotels, that are generally either known to him, or he has previously used them before. The specific day trips on each tour are also carefully created, all based on Graham’s knowledge, as well as any relevant previous customer feedback and suggestions to ensure they are always enjoyed. The trips do not leave the hotel too early, or return too late, so as to allow everyone to make full

use of the facilities. Guaranteed free time, as well as entertainment, are also key factors that he takes into account to try and make a tour as pleasurable an experience as possible.

It’s nice to have something to look forward to, so why not book yourself on a coach tour. The advert on the opposite page shows you what’s on offer.

Give yourself something to look forwrad to in the New Year with a selction of spring tours, including an adventure in the Welsh countryside, an all incluive drinks trip to Blackpool and Harrogate and an all inclusive party at the excellent Winnock Hotel in Perth.

Rest assured that you can book with confidence with United Travel. They have been granted a COVID-19 Industry Standard Certificate, which shows that government and industry COVID-19 guidelines are followed. Plus, if your tour is cancelled due to COVID restrictions, you will receive a full refund.

Graham would like to thank all of his wonderful customers that continued to support him throughout 2021 and 2022 and he’s looking forward to welcoming you onboard in 2023!

Tel: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654

www.unitedgrouptravel.com

Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd

Email: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com

United Group Travel are taking bookings now for their popular coach tours.

Clanree Hotel, Co. Donegal

Loch Lomond, part of Scotland’s North West Passage Tour

Your driver Graham looks forward to welcoming you aboard!

£30 PERDEPOSIT SECURESPERSON BOOKINGYOUR

QUALITY COACH TOURS

3 Star Plus Hotels ● All Excursions Included

Complimentary Tea/Coffee And Biscuits On Travel Days

CAMBRIDGE, ST ALBANS, ELY & BURY ST EDMUNDS - 3rd April

Cambridge Bar Hill Hotel, 5 days, 4 nights DB&B - £399pp

SCOTLAND’S NORTH WEST PASSAGE - 24th April

Regarded as a trip of a lifetime - 7 days, 6 nights - £720pp*

TWIN CENTRE NORTH & SOUTH WALES - 7th May

Ivy Bush Royal Hotel, Carmarthen & The Beaufort Park Hotel, Mold 8 days, 7 nights DB&B - £715

GUIDED TOUR OF DONEGAL AREA, IRELAND - 10th June

Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, 6 days, 5 nights DB&B - £685pp* PLUS OTHER TOURS INCLUDING:

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY with

Hive Storytellers’ Fantastical Trails

‘Thank you for an amazing, magical adventure!’ ‘Our children loved the trail and all the characters and stories.’ ‘Kids had a great time. They even listened.’

These are only a few of the glowing comments the Hive Storytellers received from visitors about the group’s two successful audio trails at Northumberlandia in 2022.

The Hive Storytellers are based in the North-East with an award-winning producer, and writer at their helm. The Storytellers are delighted to announce they have been invited to create a FREE Fantastical Audio Trail at Ashington’s wonderful Hirst Park, Hawthorn Road NE63 OQT on April 10th-13th 2023 at 10.00am – 3.00pm. Visitors just need a mobile phone and to scan a QR Code. Everything else will be provided at The Pavilion near the car park. There is easy access for prams, pushchairs, and wheelchairs.

The trail lasts approximately an hour, as families listen to twelve original characters’ stories and answer a quiz based on what they hear. So, if your family wish to listen to Old Parky, the ghostly Park Keeper; Fluffcoat, a greedy red squirrel or Kidda and Wor Ruthie,

would-be professional footballers, then this trail is for you.

The Storytellers have other Fantastical Audio Trails planned in 2023 for students at Hareside Primary School, Cramlington, and a second FREE Hirst Park Trail in the summer. The group is also in discussion with Cramlington Town Council as part of their Diamond Birthday Celebration and The Wildlife Trust at Northumberlandia.

Hive Storytellers formed in 2019. They are a group of ordinary folk who have accomplished extraordinary things. For instance, they were the only amateurs in the final four in Audible’s national competition in 2019. Also in that year, they successfully performed a commemorative play, The Tenth Bord, to audiences at St. Hilda’s Pit Head and in 2022 at The Word, both in South Shields. They also write and perform short stories, songs, plays and poems for their Podcasts on Anchor https:// anchor.fm/hive-radio-storytellers which have a growing worldwide audience.

Since 2019, one group member has recorded professional voiceovers for national and international companies, another has had their short stories published in a national magazine, and a third had a poem accepted for a shipbuilding exhibition at South Shields Museum. Hive Storytellers would like to attract new members who are interested in the creative arts. For more information go to their new website www.hivestorytellers.org which goes live in April 2023.

Top: Hive Storytellers take to the stage in 2023. Above: Hirst Park’s glorious rose garden. Left: Characters Wor Ruthie and Old Parky

Olivia Priest has a BSc and MSc in Sports Injury Management. Her treatment approach involves a consultation and detailed care plan that uses various effective techniques to help you recover, manage and heal from a wide range of injuries and conditions.

SCREAM VI

Genre: Horror, Thriller

Age Rating: 18

Release Date: 10 March

Following the latest Ghostface killings, the four survivors leave Woodsboro behind and start a fresh chapter. In Scream VI, Melissa Barrera, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Jenna Ortega, Hayden Panettiere and Courteney Cox return to their roles in the franchise alongside Jack Champion, Henry Czerny, Liana Liberato, Dermot Mulroney, Devyn Nekoda and Samara Weaving.

SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS

Genre: Action, Comedy

Age Rating: 12A

Release Date: 17 March

Bestowed with the powers of the gods, Billy Batson and his fellow foster kids are still learning how to juggle teenage life with having adult Super Hero alter-egos. But when the Daughters of Atlas, a vengeful trio of ancient gods, arrive on Earth in search of the magic stolen from them long ago, Billy - aka Shazam - and his family are thrust into a battle for their superpowers, their lives, and the fate of their world.

world of X, in this astonishing follow-up to the year's most acclaimed horror film. Trapped on her family's isolated farm, Pearl must tend to her ailing father under the overbearing watch of her devout mother. Lusting for a glamorous life like she's seen in the movies, Pearl's ambitions, temptations, and repressions all collide, in the stunning, technicolor-inspired origin story of X's iconic villain.

ALLELUJAH

Genre: Adventure, Family

Age Rating: 12a

Release Date: 17 March

When the geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital is threatened with closure, the hospital decides to fight back by galvanizing the local community: they invite a news crew to film their preparations for a concert in honour of the hospital’s most distinguished nurse. ‘Allelujah’ celebrates the spirit of the elderly patients whilst paying tribute to the deep humanity of the medical staff battling with limited resources and ever-growing demand. Starring Judi Dench and Jennifer Saunders.

JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4

Genre: Action, Thriller

Age Rating: TBC

Release Date: 24 March

John Wick (Keanu Reeves) takes on his most lethal adversaries yet in the upcoming fourth installment of the series. With the price on his head ever increasing, Wick takes his fight against the High Table global as he seeks out the most powerful players in the underworld.

AIR

Genre: Drama

Age Rating: TBC

Release Date: 5 April

From award-winning director Ben Affleck, ‘Air’ reveals the unbelievable game-changing partnership between a then rookie Michael Jordan and Nike’s fledgling basketball division which revolutionized the world of sports and contemporary culture with the Air Jordan brand. This moving story follows the career-defining gamble of an unconventional team with everything on the line, the uncompromising vision of a mother who knows the worth of her son’s immense talent, and the basketball phenom who would become the greatest of all time. Starring Matt Damon and Jason Bateman.

SUPER MARIO BROS. THE MOVIE

Genre: Drama

Age Rating: TBC

Release Date: 7 April

PEARL

Genre: Horror

Age Rating:15

Release Date: 17 March

Another chapter from the twisted

A plumber named Mario travels through an underground labyrinth with his brother, Luigi, trying to save a captured princess. Film adaptation of the popular video game.

Entrusted to care for the region's canine companions since 2003 and awarded a 5 star rating from Northumberland County Council, it truly is 'all about your dog' at Doggy Days.

THE DOG BOUTIQUE

In our boutique, we've selected a range of unique products for your dog that you won't find on the high street. High-quality toys, indulgent treats and fabulous accessories.

Providing a range of services from a simple bath and brush to our full grooming package, all of which include nail trim and ear cleaning as standard. Starting from just £10.

CLAIRE BATTISTA IS AN EXPERIENCED INDEPENDENT NURSE PRESCRIBER AND OWNER OF THE BATT HOUSE WHICH IS BASED IN BEDLINGTON, NORTHUMBERLAND

For anyone considering a treatment, consultations at The Batt House are free of charge, so feel free to book in for a chat.

Monthly payment plans are available.

Booking is so easy you can message us on Facebook or Instagram or simply scan the QR code which leads you straight to the booking system.

email: thebatthouse@yahoo.com

GUM DISEASE A BALANCING ACT!

By Joanne Duggan, Principal Dental Surgeon at Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice

As a dental team we all have a commitment to continue our education, attending dental courses and lectures during the year as we strive to improve the dental care we provide to our patients. After attending a course delivered by a periodontal specialist, (specialises in gum disease), I wanted to share some interesting information about gum disease.

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?

Gum disease is a destructive process caused by harmful bacteria in the plaque that forms on our teeth. The toxins produced by the bacteria can cause inflammation of the gums that can lead to loosening of the gums and teeth. Once the gum is loose it is easier for this harmful plaque to get under the surface of the gum and therefore it is difficult for you to brush it away at home. The harmful toxins produced by the bacteria destroys the bone that holds the tooth in place in the jaw. This can lead to loosening of teeth, pain, abscesses, inability to eat and eventually tooth

loss! Sounds scary doesn’t it, but unfortunately it is quite common.

You now know that gum disease is destructive and is caused by the harmful bacteria in plaque, however what was really of interest at this course was the impact of how our body responds and defends against the harmful bacteria and includes our inflammation and immune systems. Whether we develop gum disease really depends on lots of other factors as well.

HARMFUL PLAQUE BACTERIA V HOST RESPONSE!

What does the host response actually mean?

The host response, or how well our bodies respond to harmful bacteria, is our defence mechanism and involves our inflammation and autoimmune response. How well our bodies defend against toxic bacteria around our gums can determine whether we develop gum disease. This is significant and includes factors such as:

Genetics - There is a definite link between gum disease and our genes. If anyone in your family has gum disease then you too may be more at risk of having gum problems. It really is hard to fight your genes and if you have a strong family genetic predisposition to gum disease then it will be more difficult to manage and the treatment you receive may be less effective.

Diabetes - Diabetics are 3 times more likely to have gum disease, particularly if the diabetes is poorly controlled. Diabetics are generally not as good at wound healing. In fact, the link between gum disease and diabetes is so strong that the risk works both ways. What do I mean by this? Well, if you have diabetes you are at risk of having gum disease, but also if you have gum disease you have an increased risk of being diabetic.

Smoking - The most important known risk factor for gum disease is cigarette smoking. There is a very definite link between smoking and gum disease. Studies and research has proved that smokers do loose more teeth due to gum disease than non- smokers. Smoking has a profound impact on the progression of the disease, the response to treatment and the likelihood of relapse. Smoking impairs how well the body deals with harmful plaque bacteria and also reduces the success of any treatment you may receive for gum disease. Being a non-smoker is therefore one of the best ways to improve your gum health.

Smokers have more hard calculus and plaque build up on their teeth. Smoking reduces the blood supply to the gums, meaning infected gums do not heal as well. A reduced blood supply is not healthy and could hide the fact you have gum disease as your gums may not bleed. This is why it is important to visit your dentist regularly as at

“Even smoking 1-4 cigarettes a day can increase your risk of developing gum disease by almost 50%.¹”

every check up they will screen for the presence of gum disease.

Stress - If we are stressed, it can affect our general health but also the health of our gums. When we under intense or prolonged periods of stress our bodies defence mechanism does not work as effectively. Stress therefore suppresses our immune system, tipping the balance in favour of the harmful bacteria. Also if you are stressed you may not be looking after yourself as well, for example not brushing your teeth before bed or using interdental brushes.

Toxic bacteria on teeth that causes gum disease.

Smoking Stress

Diabetes Lifestyle factors and Nutrition

Genetics Hormones

Nutrition - Reducing your carbohydrate and processed food intake and adopting a healthy diet including fruit and vegetables helps to improve your host response and maintain healthy gums.

Life style factors - such as obesity, sleep deprivation, lack of exercise, depression can all reduce how well our bodies defence mechanism works.

Hormones - Hormonal changes are known to affect the gums, especially in pregnancy as even a small amount of plaque can cause a lot of inflammation and bleeding of the gums. With good plaque removal, after the baby is born and hormone levels have returned to normal your gum health should also improve.

All of these factors have an impact on how well the body fights the toxic bacteria that causes inflammation and gum disease. Whether we develop gum disease appears to be a balancing act of how much harmful bacteria there is on our teeth and gums versus how our body defends and protects us against it.

It is logical then that the best thing anyone can do to prevent gum disease is to have beautifully clean teeth: if there is no plaque and bacteria, there cannot be any gum disease! It is obviously very difficult to change our host response to bacteria, therefore good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of gum treatment combined with help, advice and support to manage the other factors listed above, such as smoking cessation advice or referral to your diabetic nurse. To diagnose, prevent

and treat gum disease you need to make sure you attend the dentist for regular examinations, advice and treatment.

Treatment provided by a dentist or dental hygienist for gum disease will only be successful if you fully engage in their recommended oral hygiene regime. I’m afraid there is a lot of homework for you to do in between dental appointments; you cannot rely on your three monthly hygiene visits to do all the work for you.

Treatment of periodontal disease will not be successful if you don’t clean the plaque off your teeth; being really clean means to remove the harmful bacteria which will prevent the disease process progressing. So you must brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, especially before bed and clean interdentally every day.

Your dental team will advice you of the best products to use for every area of your mouth. Examples of some of the products are floss, interdental brushes and single tufted brushes.

If you like to arrange an appointment or would like more information about any of the services we provide then give the practice a call on 01670 828402.

Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice

30 Front Street East, Bedlington, NE22 5AA. Tel: 01670 828402

www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk

“Whether we develop gum disease appears to be a balancing act of how much harmful bacteria there is on our teeth and gums versus how our body defends and protects us against it.

FINE ART CLASSES IN WHITLEY BAY

Turpentyne offers fine art classes and workshops for Ages 4 - Adults

Are your children showing an interest in creativity? Are you looking for a new activity for them that will occupy and challenge them whilst giving them a life-long skill?

If so, then fine art drawing and painting courses encourage imaginative thinking and are incredibly fun and, what’s more, are available right here in Whitley Bay.

Turpentyne already have an established and registered Arts Award Centre in Gosforth, and have recently opened a new studio on the first floor at 236 Whitley Road.

They offer term-time courses, as well as school break workshops for children from four years upwards. The courses are structured around the revolutionary concept that children are amazingly capable. They can learn to use art materials properly, they can see form and shadow, and they achieve much more artistically than many adults imagine!

Mediums taught include crayon (younger children), marker, charcoal, soft pastel, oil pastel, promarkers, watercolour paint, acrylic paint, acrylic inks and oil paint, and subjects include animals, cartooning, landscape, portraiture, still life, master studies and more.

Turpentyne courses are not your average messy arts and crafts. Students are taught how to "see" as an artist, fostering the understanding of how to draw and paint.

Younger students attend an hour-long weekly lesson, whereas older students' lessons last an hour and a half. Classes are offered Monday - Saturday; full details are available on their website. Bookings for all classes are essential. Unfortunately, no walk-ins are accepted.

Each student's curriculum will be constructed with their skills, interests and educational needs in mind. Materials will be selected by the teachers and rotated regularly to keep students engaged and challenged. Students will be allowed to advance to new and more challenging materials and subjects as their proficiency improves. All materials are supplied in class at no extra cost.

In addition to the building of confidence that results from the ability to render realistically, students also

benefit from art instruction academically. A Stanford University study found that "children in the arts use linguistic and cognitive thinking skills -- such as longterm planning, critiquing and focused attention -- that can reap positive social and academic benefits".

Learning to draw and paint opens a child's eyes to the world in a way that they may have never seen before. They learn to see detail, measure visually, and problem solve, stretching their imaginations while drawing upon prior knowledge and engaging their brains in new ways.

To learn more about the Turpentyne studio and their available courses, visit their website.

Turpentyne, 236 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2TE

www.turpentyne.com

Give Someone Power Of Attorney… Before It's Too Late

Lasting Powers of Attorney are invaluable documents as part of the overall planning of your estate as managing your financial affairs can become more difficult as you get older.

If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to mental incapacity and they have not made a valid Enduring or Lasting Power of Attorney, their assets will be frozen as no one (including their spouse and children) has the authority to deal with them.

At this point someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as the person’s Deputy. The Court will then authorize the Deputy to deal with the person’s affairs in a certain manner. This is a very time consuming (around 6 months) and expensive (in the region of £1,750) process. This situation can be simply avoided through the making of a Lasting Power of Attorney.

By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can decide whom you would like to manage your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so either due to physical or mental incapacity.

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney that can be made, one dealing with your property and financial affairs and the other dealing with your personal welfare.

Personal Welfare: This power gives your attorney the authority to make decisions regarding your healthcare and medical treatment.

Property and Affairs: This power enables your attorney to deal with your bank accounts and your property. This includes decisions in relation to selling or renting your property, paying your bills, applying for benefits you are entitled to and all aspects of dealing with your bank accounts, savings and investments.

All work we undertake is at fixed fees:

Single Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney: £360 inclusive of VAT

Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £480 inclusive of VAT

It is imperative that specialist advice is taken in order to ensure that the power given accurately reflects your wishes.

Call Crichton Wills Trusts & Probate on 01670 514772 and speak to a specialist adviser today who will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have and offers a free no obligation appointment in the comfort of your own home.

FO2, Ashington Workspace, Lintonville Parkway, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9JZ

Dawn Lang Funeral Services

Covering Ashington, Morpeth and Bedlington areas

USEFUL NUMBERS

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY COUNCIL 0345 600 6400

POLICE NON-EMERGENCY 101

NHS 111

If you need help assessing how urgently treatment is needed.

POWER CUT? CALL 105

SMELL GAS? CALL 0800 111 999

NORTHUMBRIAN WATER 0345 717 1100

DOMESTIC ABUSE HELPLINE 0808 247 200

Freephone 24 hours per day

CHILDLINE 0800 11 11

Confidential helpline for children & young people

RAPE CRISIS 0800 035 2794

Mon - Thu (6pm - 8.30pm) for women and girls over 13 who have experienced any form of sexual violence.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

0800 9177 650

CRUSE BEREAVEMENT

SUPPORT 0808 808 1677

Helpline for the bereaved and those caring for bereaved people.

FRANK 03001 236600

24 hours a day. Information about drugs for those who use them, their friends and family.

GAMCARE 0808 8020 133

Confidential counselling and advice for anyone affected by gambling dependency.

SAMARITANS 116 123

24 hours a day. Confidential emotional support helpline for anyone in a crisis

RSPCA 0300 1234 999

To report cruelty, neglect or an animal in distress.

AGE UK 0800 169 6565

Free information on issues affecting older people.

ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY DEMENTIA SUPPORT

0333 150 3456

If you are affected by dementia, worried about a diagnosis or a carer, trained staff are ready to give you the support you need.

SHELTERLINE 0808 800 4444

8am - 12 midnight. Legal and housing advice line for anyone with a housing problem.

NATIONAL DEBTLINE

0808 808 4000

Help for anyone in debt.

MISSING PEOPLE 116 000

Advice, help and support for anyone whose relatives or family members are missing.

CARER’S UK 0808 808 777

Wed, Thu only 10am - 12noon and 2pm4pm. Advice and information for all carers.

BENEFIT ENQUIRY LINE

0800 882 200

Advice for disabled people and carers.

CITIZEN’S ADVICE 03444 111 444

Help and advice for consumers in the UK.

NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

0871 882 1121

TRAVELINE 0871 200 22 33

Advice for your journey by public transport by bus, coach, train, metro or ferry.

MALE VOICE CHOIR PREPARES FOR SPRING

Following on from a successful and most enjoyable festive season, Ashington and District Male Voice Choir (ADMVC) have commenced rehearsals for the 2023 season.

We have welcomed two more members to the choir in recent weeks, Gary and Ivan, and both are enjoying the benefits of singing in a community choir whilst learning our revised programme for the coming year. 2023 brings a new programme of events, and dates are being confirmed for performances at Morpeth St Mary’s Church, Morpeth Gathering, our Annual Concert in Ashington to celebrate the King’s Coronation in May, and dates at Beamish Museum, all in the first half of the year.

The start of a new year is a great time to take on new hobbies or interests, and as always, with ADMVC being a community Choir, prospective new singers would be most welcome. Just drop into one of our rehearsals on Thursday evenings at 7 pm in the lounge at Bomarsund Welfare for a taster session. No auditions are required, and you do not need to be able

to read music, as one of our experienced members will guide you throughout the evening.

An interval with coffee/tea and biscuits provides the ideal opportunity for members to catch up socially and is always a popular part of rehearsals. Make 2023 the year that you begin your journey in choral singing with us. Communal singing really lifts your mood, and the health benefits from regular singing are well publicised.

If you are interested, please visit our website www.ashingtonmalevoicechoir.org, find us on Facebook, or ring the number shown in our advert below. We look forward to hearing from you.

Clues Across

1 Scottish plaid (6)

4 Entice, coax (6)

9 Shape with many sides (7)

10 Circulate, deliver (5)

11 Grovel (5)

12 Spiky plant (7)

13 Calendar, schedule (6)

15 Despot, bully (6)

18 Touchable (7)

20 Scrutinise (5)

22 Pretended (5)

23 Teeming, jammed (7)

24 Victim, prey (6)

25 Delicate, fragile (6)

Clues Down

1 Subject matter (5)

2 Let go (7)

3 Seraph, cherub (5)

5 Nimbleness (7)

6 Beginning (5)

7 Essential feature (7)

8 Coalesce (5)

13 Captivate, fascinate (7)

14 Ebb, fade (7)

16 Kept away from (7)

17 Instruct (5)

19 Provide for (5)

20 Leave bread to rise (5)

21 Sea-dwelling duck (5)

There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

SOLUTIONS

O R C U N E R D C

WORDSEARCH

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 16 Good; 19 Very Good; 22 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

2023 is the Chinese Year of the Rabbit. Can you find all of the fictional bunnies hidden in the grid?

Bean

Benjamin Bigwig

Brer

Bucky

Bugs

Bunnicula

Buster Baxter

Captain Carrot

Cecily Parsley

Cottontail

Flopsy Bunnies

Harvey

Hazel

Honey

Hoppy

Jazz

Lola

Miffy

Pantoufle

Peter

Rabbit

Roger

Thumper

Vibri

HELP REDUCE ENERGY COSTS WITH THERMOS ROOF

Conservatories are a great space to enjoy whilst looking out onto your garden. They are bright, spacious and give you a great sense of closeness to the outdoors. However, as most conservatory owners will know, whilst they bring all of those benefits, it is usually shortlived and can only be enjoyed for two or three months of the year, the rest of those months being either freezing cold or blisteringly hot.

At Thermos Roof, we have been insulating conservatory roofs since 2005 for two main reasons: to increase its insulating performance and enhance its internal aesthetic appearance.

Experience will have shown you that in winter, heat is sucked out of your room and into the conservatory as soon as you open the door. During the summer, it becomes a dazzling sauna that’s so hot you need a fan to cool you down. At Thermos Roof, we can transform your conservatory from a room you barely use, into a space you can enjoy all year round as the temperature is comfortable and constant. You will even be able to watch TV or use a computer without sunglasses.

What is most impressive is that we can do this all in one day! With no mess!

We retain your existing polycarbonate or glass roof and insulate it from the inside, finishing it in an attractive gloss white tongue and groove PVC cladding that matches the rest of your conservatory construction. The materials we use are lightweight;

therefore, no roof strengthening is required, no planning application is necessary and no long periods of mess and upheaval in your home. In addition to this, the look and finish of your Thermos Roof will be as fresh in 10 years as it is today.

The performance of the lightweight insulation system will equal that of vastly more expensive options, with less mess and waste and less time to install, saving you thousands of pounds and allowing you to enjoy your conservatory immediately.

We can install a Thermos Roof to conservatories of any size or shape, transforming them into a flowing extension of your living space wherein the external weather conditions do not dictate its use; it will become warm in winter and cool in summer.

In addition to the above benefits, our team will eliminate mould and condensation, reduce rain, noise and serve to cover up an unsightly dirty roof. The gloss white finish will make it brighter

in the evenings by reflecting light and will give your conservatory that WOW factor, making it a great place to relax or work.

All installations come with a five-year warranty. We guarantee that you will be amazed by both the improved appearance and the insulating performance of your new roof.

We offer a free quotation service for the installation of your Thermos Roof and, should you require it, we can also undertake maintenance works to repair or replace gutters, fascias, soffits, window sills, roof panels and leaking roofs.

■ Please give us a call today on 01670 828 695 to start the ball rolling to making full use of your Conservatory!

www.thermosroof.co.uk

With most of us facing rising energy bills, why not reduce these costs and save money instantly with a Thermos Roof insulation system in your conservatory. Here they explain more.

SAVE £££’S THIS WINTER!

Having a well insulated conservatory can help reduce your heating bills this winter like never before.

Don’t shut your conservatory off from the rest of your house this winter. With a ThermosRoof Installation you can open it up and use it like any other room in your home, safe in the knowledge it’s not costing a fortune to heat.

Start saving right away. Give us a call for an instant price over the phone. You’ll notice the difference before we’ve even finished the installation. Start using your cosy new room immediately.

We can carry out a full install in a single day, leaving zero mess and instant results. We retain your existing roof profile & do not remove your current roof. A 5 year warranty is included.

Prices from £799

BLOW THE COBWEBS AWAY

Chase the blues away and enjoy a springtime stroll

North Tyneside, and especially our coastal area, is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK, so where better to enjoy a lovely spring walk than right here in our home county.

As the weather changes, and the days get longer, one of the best ways to shake off the winter blues is to take in some of the breathtaking scenery around us by going on a spring time walk. Here are a selection of some of the best local walks to help you blow off the cobwebs and enjoy our local area.

For more details on all of the above walks, including maps of each walk which can be printed off, please visit: visitnorthtyneside.com/activities

COASTAL HERITAGE TRAIL

Starts at St Mary's Lighthouse

Whitley Bay, NE26 4RS

The coastline of North Tyneside has a long and fascinating history. A number of information panels are located between the Black Midden Rocks and St Mary's Lighthouse to highlight the rich and diverse history and culture of the area and in so doing, help improve the connectivity between Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay. To see more information please view the web link at the end of this article. You can find out about centuries of history and discover how the past has shaped the present. There are excellent public transport links to help you do so.

NORTH SHIELDS TOWN TRAIL

Starts inside The Beacon Centre Bedford Street North Shields

Tyne & Wear NE29 6QF

North Shields has a vibrant town centre; a green haven in the lovingly restored Victorian era Northumberland Park and a historic working fish quay. Three distinct characteristics of the town are brought together in a circular walk. Step out and discover more about the town’s past, the natural life that thrives in urban North Shields and the fascinating story of the Fish Quay.

Take time to walk the route, to admire the architecture, to share our history, to see our spectacular views and perhaps to sample some food and drink along the route. The route is designed to be completed on foot with an alternative route available for those who do not want to climb the stairs on the Fish Quay.

Visit: northshieldstrail.org

ROBERT WESTALL WALK

Starts at Vicarage Street North Shields, NE29 6SJ

The walk starts in North Shields at the birthplace of local author Robert Westall and winds its way through North Shields, the Fish Quay and ends in Tynemouth taking in the sights and sounds of his much loved novels. Reading the books of local born writer Robert Westall is like taking a virtual journey through the streets, sights, smells and sounds of North Shields and Tynemouth as they were more than half a century ago.

Born in North Shields in 1929, Robert Westall found fame as a writer of books such as The Machine Gunners, Fathom Five, The Promise, The Kingdom by the Sea and Falling Into Glory. Whilst primarily written for children, Westall's books also reached out to an adult audience.

Much has changed in North Shields since his formative years, but the essence of the area remains. This walk takes you on a journey to many of the places which inspired him and, as you step out along the streets which follow the river down to the sea at Tynemouth, you will feel the spirits of his characters tugging at your sleeve. Fiction will merge with fact.

ROYAL QUAYS ART WALK

Starts at The Parks Howdon Road North Shields, NE29 6TL

A circular walk around the regenerated Royal Quays district of North Shields looking at the public art on display in the landscaped parks and the Royal Quays Marina. Art in public places enhances a community's enjoyment of their immediate environment and, as the artworks weather and blend into the landscape; they become a familiar part of that landscape. They entice curiosity, from both within and outside that community, creating not only an interest in the artworks themselves but also in the surrounding locality. Artworks can also contribute to the regeneration of an urban landscape and there is

no better way of discovering how successfully this can be carried out than to take a journey around the Royal Quays development at North Shields, on the northern banks of the River Tyne.

THE BLUE PLAQUE WALK

Starts at Front Street Tynemouth Tyne & Wear NE30 4BT

A circular walk around Tynemouth and North Shields taking in many of the Blue Plaques providing a fascinating insight into the rich history of North Tyneside. Wherever we stand we are surrounded by history. Sometimes that history is highly visible. Other times it lies beneath the surface and requires a journey of exploration for the unique character of the area to be truly appreciated. An ideal way to start that journey is to follow the blue plaques that have been erected on buildings with some historical significance. These offer a taste of what went before and, when viewed as a group, begin to build up a picture of the past. A snapshot maybe, but what better continues on next page ➤

way to uncover a little of the history of the coastal village of Tynemouth and its seafaring neighbour North Shields.

THE COASTAL WALK

Starts at St. Marys Island

Whitley Bay, NE26 4RS

A walk from St Mary's Island, following the naturally stunning coastline through Whitley Bay and Cullercoats to Tynemouth Priory and Castle and finishing on the historic North Shields Fish Quay. 'Miles of golden curving sand' is how the coastline, immediately to the south of St. Mary's Island, Whitley Bay, was described in the heyday of British seaside resorts. A simple, but honest, marketing description of an area loved by generations of families. However, the sun has now set on those busy, candyfloss days by the sea. The beaches are quieter and the kiss-me-quick hats have disappeared, but the coastline remains as enticing as ever and, whatever the weather, a walk along the coast remains a great way to spend the day. This walk along the coast will give you a flavour of

everything you could wish for from a trip to the sea; birds, flowers, history, art, literature, architecture, modern culture and, for those with a yearning for the traditional seaside day out, there may even be some candy floss along the way.

WHITLEY BAY DISCOVERY WALK

Starts at Whitley Bay Metro Station Station Road Whitley Bay

Tyne & Wear NE26 2QY

A nostalgic circular walk around the much loved seaside resort looking at the history of the town and revealing some quirky and interesting facts. At the height of its popularity Whitley Bay was a busy seaside resort attracting visitors from far and wide. Here generations of families enjoyed everything that the traditional British seaside holiday had to offer.

However, as air travel became more accessible in the 1960's, holidaymakers began to seek out more exotic destinations where sunshine could be guaranteed. Holiday patterns had changed forever.

As you step out on this walk you will discover for yourself some of the fragments of Whitley Bay's rich and varied past.

The walk starts where most visitors to the town first arrived at the beginning of their fortnight’s holiday; the railway station and it ends at the top of South Parade, for a short while in the 1960’s the Club A Go-Go reverberated to the music of the day and on the 9th November 1963 a fledgling band played at the club. They were the Rolling Stones and as they say.........the rest is history!

For more details on all of the above walks, including maps of each walk which can be printed off, please visit: visitnorthtyneside.com/activities

WHAT’S ON

LITTLE SHOOTERS JUNIOR FOOTBALL TRAINING SESSIONS

A great place for 4 to 6 year olds to learn basic football skills & drills amongst a friendly group of kids & qualified Trainers. They can advance into playing competitively in one of the junior teams.

CARPET BOWLS

Wednesdays 7pm to 9.30pm

Part of the centre for over 30 years. A very friendly group of people, some of whom have played Bowls at the highest level for County & league competitions. They have also raised thousands of pounds over the years to donate to various charities. Come along and learn the skill attached to Carpet Bowling from some of the best Bowlers of their time. Contact the centre.

COMMUNITY CHOIR

Thursdays 7pm - 9pm

Anyone wishing to come along and join Choir Master Richard and the group should call the Centre to book a place.

SEQUENCE DANCE GROUP

Sunday & Tuesday 7pm - 10pm New Members Wanted!

Come along & enjoy an evening in the company of a lovely friendly group of people. New joiners please call the centre first to book your place.

LINE DANCING

Monday, Friday & Saturday 7pm to 10.30pm

Come along and Line Dance to traditional music or dance to the latest pop music.

PILATES CLASS

Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm

With Gill Glass. Enjoy this popular way of exercising and help losing those few extra pounds put on during the Pandemic Lockdown with the aim of getting fit. Call 07742 885165 to book your place.

Also, if you have the skills to help run any of the activities listed above or something new - please get in touch!

For more information or to book an activity call Neal on

Email: neal@choppington.org

Is there an activity you’d like to participate in but can’t find a location offering it? Contact us & we’ll see if we can make it happen! BECOME A MEMBER £5 PER YEAR OR £4 FOR OAP & JUNIOR

01670 822 028

A GOOD READ

By Tash Donovan

MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON

by Elizabeth Strout

Lucy Barton is both a mother and a daughter. She has a floundering marriage and is in hospital with complications following what should have been a routine operation. Her husband who dislikes hospitals and declines to visit, arranges instead for her estranged mother to sit with her.

Strout’s novel is about a mother and daughter relationship steeped in sadness. Lucy spent her childhood craving maternal love, while her mother seemed incapable of providing it.

This poignant and deeply moving novel explores the complexities of family, love, and forgiveness. Told from Lucy’s viewpoint, the story takes us on a journey through her childhood and into adult life, as she reflects on events in her past and her relationship with her mother.

The novel is written in a simple and straightforward style that somehow belies the emotional depth of the story. Strout’s writing is evocative and powerful; she’s a master of capturing the nuances of human emotion. The characters and their relationships are richly drawn, and relatable. Lucy’s relationship with her mother is at the core of the novel, and Strout explores its dynamics with sensitivity and insight.

Themes of family, love, and forgiveness are woven throughout and Strout’s writing reflects on the passage of time, the power of memory and the strength of the human spirit. There is much in this novel that is not stated explicitly. The reader is left to do some work and the result is a wise, thought-provoking book.

THE GIRL OF INK & STARS

by Kiran

Millwood Hargrave

Isabella Riosse (Isa) is a teen trapped on the island of Joya, a land full of myths; forbidden to travel further than the forest that flanks her village by the Governor, and all the while dreaming of the faraway lands her cartographer father once mapped.

When a string of unsettling events and the disappearance of her closest friend Lupa make it necessary to journey beyond the forest in search of answers, Isa joins a team of explorers on an adventure that will test her map-making skills and her courage.

As she follows her map, her heart and an ancient myth,

Isa discovers the true purpose of her quest: to save the island itself.

The story is a fantasy set in a parallel magical world. The author draws on mythology and folklore and blends these with themes of friendship, adventure and courage. As a bonus, the text is enhanced with beautiful illustrations and maps.

The Girl of Ink and Stars is officially a children’s novel, but I suspect there are many adults who will also enjoy this richly drawn world and its characters.

NORMAL PEOPLE

by Sally Rooney

While this is a book written for adults I think older teens will find a lot to relate to.

The book follows Marianne and Connell through their angsty, often quite pretentious adolescent years (and who among us wasn’t at least a bit pretentious or obnoxious in their teens?) into the complications of early adulthood.

Rooney treads a fine line between evoking irritation at two flawed, slightly unlikeable people, while making those flaws and the angst seem so raw and real that as a reader we begin to care about them.

The novel is one about relationships and how they are affected by both class and social status. Marianne is a smart girl from an affluent family, but this does not protect her from being socially ostracized at school and emotionally abused at home. Connell on the other hand is from a working-class family and enjoys an easy popularity. Connell’s mother works as a cleaner for Marianne’s family, and the teens are drawn to each other and begin a secret sexual relationship, but it falls apart because Connell does not want his friends to find out.

By the time they meet again at university, Marianne is the popular one, and Connell is feeling increasingly depressed and isolated. They are once more drawn to each other as they navigate through a world filled with social expectations. Through Marianne and Connell, Rooney examines our need to impress and perform for others in a world that seems to grow ever more connected online, with so many things left unsaid faceto-face.

Rooney has created a weird, awkward, compelling novel about weird, awkward, compelling people, who find what they really need, and a lot they don’t, in each other. As Marianne spirals into self-destruction and Connell looks for meaning in his life, how far will each of them go to save the other.

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