ABC Magazine: Whitley Bay Edition - Jan/Feb 2023

WELCOME TO ABC MAGAZINE

Welcome to the Whitley Bay edition of ABC, your bi-monthly local magazine.

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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

DATES FOR THE DIARY

Upcoming events at the coast

WHITLEY WONDERS

Saturday 4th - Sunday 5th March

Take a walk and see your neighbourhood in a whole new light! Whitley Wonders is a communitycreated arts trail on the pedestrian streets near Whitley Bay Metro Station. The pedestrian streets around Whitley Bay Metro transform into an outdoor art gallery with creative window displays made by local people.

The 2022 Art Trail saw 45 homes create and host amazing artworks in their windows that wowed over 500 people visting and seeing the neighbourhood in a whole new light. Streets included are: Albany Gardens / Albert Terrace / Alexandra Terrace / Gladstone Terrace / Devonshire Terrace / Lish Avenue / Burnfoot Terrace / Stanley Terrace / Waterford Crescent / Clarence Crescent. All artworks will be visible from the street so there is no need to go into people’s gardens or through their gate.

www.windowwonders.co.uk

SPANISH CITY EASTER FUNFAIR

Friday 7th - Thursday 13th April

The popular annual Easter funfair returns once again this Easter. All the traditional favourites will be

there including the Waltzer and many more. Located on The Links, just a stone's throw away from the new Spanish City, great local arcades and some of the best ice cream and fish and chips in the country.

facebook.com/TurnersFunfairs

NORTH TYNESIDE 10K ROAD RACE

Sunday 9th April

The race starts at the Parks Sports Centre in North Shields before heading down to North Shields Fish Quay and winding along the coast taking in Tynemouth Priory and Castle, the seafront, Spanish City and St Mary's Lighthouse.

The event is supported by Start Fitness and Clearly Drinks. The event is closed to entrants, but spectators always add to the atmosphere, and definitely spur the runners on!

visitnorthtyneside.com/events/ event/north-tyneside-10k-roadrace-2023/

TYNEMOUTH FOOD FESTIVAL

Saturday 13th - Sunday 14th May Tynemouth Food Festival returns to the spectacular Tynemouth Priory and Castle for another year

of epic street food, kids activities, live music, foodie marketplace and more, all with stunning views in an amazing setting.

facebook.com/

tynemouthfoodfestival

WHITLEY BAY CARNIVAL

Friday 26th - Sunday 28th May Whitley Bay Carnival is all about joining in and having fun, and marks the start of the summer season. This year is the 10th anniversary of the carnival! The thousand strong costumed parade is the centrepiece of a colourful family celebration, bringing crowds to the Spanish City Plaza and The Links, to enjoy circus, street arts, live music and more alongside traditional seaside fairground rides, street food, craft ale bars, the arts market and trade stalls. The Saturday morning parade sets off from Whitley Bay Metro Station at 11am and is due to arrive on The Links at 12 noon via Station Road, Whitley Road, Park View and Marine Ave.

www.whitleybaycarnival.co.uk

FEAST BY THE SEA

17 - 18 June, 22 - 23 July, 12 - 13 August

The Spanish City Plaza will be transformed into an amazing Feast by the Sea. Visitors can explore some of the region's best street food alongside bars, small rides for children and some great entertainment. Admission is free and the views aren't bad either! properfoodanddrinkfestivals. co.uk/events/

MOUTH OF THE TYNE FESTIVAL

Thursday 6th - Sunday 9th July

Mouth of the Tyne Festival returns with big shows at Tynemouth Priory and Castle, a spectacular street arts programme, a huge parade, jazz stage, silent disco and stacks of stuff at Tynemouth Station too. Full details and line ups will be released soon.

www.mouthofthetynefestival.com

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FILM RELEASES

THE WHALE

Genre: Drama

Age Rating: 15

Release Date: 3 February

BABYLON

Genre: Drama

Age Rating: 18

Release Date: 20 January

From Damien Chazelle, Babylon is an original epic set in 1920’s Los Angeles led by Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie and Diego Calva, with an ensemble cast including Jovan Adepo, Li Jun Li and Jean Smart. A tale of outsized ambition and outrageous excess, it traces the rise and fall of multiple characters during an era of unbridled decadence and depravity in early Hollywood.

A bereft Charlie (Brendan Fraser) has become a recluse and is eating himself into an early grave. His health failing, he reaches out to the daughter (Stranger Things’ Sadie Sink) he abandoned when he fell in love with a man and left his wife. The Whale is adapted by Samuel D. Hunter from his own stage play, and Aronofsky directs with consummate economy. Unfolding in a single room, the film has a rich sense of place –the dusty American mid-west, but its themes are universal: our fundamental need for human connection, a sense that time is unforgiving, and the (occasionally awful) power and responsibility of parenting and being someone’s whole world.

line, once Mike discovers what she truly has in mind, will he - and the roster of hot new dancers he’ll have to whip into shape - be able to pull it off?

THE FABELMANS

Genre: Drama

Age Rating 12a

Release Date: 27 January

A deeply personal portrait of a 20th century American childhood, Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans is a cinematic memory of the forces, and family, that shaped the filmmaker’s life and career. A universal coming-of-age story about an isolated young man’s pursuit of his dreams, the film is an exploration of love, artistic ambition, sacrifice and the moments of discovery that allow us to see the truth about ourselves, and our parents, with clarity and compassion.

MAGIC MIKE’S LAST DANCE

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Age Rating 15

Release Date: 10 February

‘Magic’ Mike Lane (Channing Tatum) takes to the stage again after a lengthy hiatus, following a business deal that went bust, leaving him broke and taking bartender gigs in Florida. For what he hopes will be one last hurrah, Mike heads to London with a wealthy socialite (Salma Hayek) who lures him with an offer he can’t refuse…and an agenda all her own. With everything on the

EPIC TAILS

Genre: Adventure, Family

Age Rating: U

Release Date: 10 February

The story of smart mouse Pattie and her feline friend Sam, as they embark upon an exciting adventure of paw-some proportions through Ancient Greece. With a little help from ageing hero Jason, the animals’ quest brings them face to face with some the most bizarre and dangerous creatures from Greek mythology, as they race to halt the threat posed to their city by Poseidon himself. A hilarious and inventive comedy adventure for the whole family.

ANT-MAN & THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA

Genre: Action, Adventure

Age Rating TBC

Release Date: 17 February

Super-Hero partners Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer), the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they thought was possible.

Little Learners (N.E)

Childcare Play, Learn & Grow Together

Funded places available for eligible 2, 3 & 4 year olds

Our Private Day Nurseries are located in North Shields Centre and at the top of Rake Lane (next to Vets 4 Pets). We have access to great outdoor spaces on a daily basis as well as educational outings for all children.

Healthy balanced meals and snacks are on offer as well as ensuring any dietary requirements. Our fees include your child’s personal Learning Journey file with photographs, all meals, snacks, outings, visitors into nurseries etc. We do not have any hidden charges.

If available, we offer full day, half day, hours to suit shift workers, term time only as well as all year round, 51 weeks of the year.

Little Learners was voted as one of the best places to work in the North East for 2 years running and we are an Ofsted Good Early Years Provider.

Please get in touch if you would like to look around our nurseries in a safe way

Barnstaple Road, North Shields NE29 8QD

( 0191 289 4047 or 07305 642 777

Open 7.30 am - 5.30 pm

Lovaine Place, North Shields NE29 0BU

( 07914 376 434

Open 8.00 am - 5.30 pm (optional early booking of 7.30am)

email: littlelearnerschildcare1@yahoo.co.uk

www.littlelearnersne.co.uk

High quality care for babies and children provided by a fully qualified and experienced team.

CRIME FICTION FESTIVAL RETURNS TO WHITLEY BAY

Bay Tales Live, the North East’s biggest Crime Fiction event, returns in March

Following popular demand, the team behind Bay Tales have announced details of their second annual live one day crime fiction festival at Whitley Bay Playhouse on Saturday March 4th, 2023.

The event comes on the back of the duo’s inaugural event, which was held in February 2022, and will feature local authors Ann Cleeves OBE and Trevor Wood, alongside more than 15 of the UK’s bestselling crime and mystery writers.

“We’re thrilled with the authors joining us,” says Simon Bewick; co-director of Bay Tales. “We’ve got Sunday Times and New York Times bestsellers, Richard and Judy Pick authors, award winners as well as several with work coming to BBC, ITV, Netflix and Paramount Plus soon.”

“Bay Tales Live 2023 will be even bigger and better, with more community involvement,” says Vic Watson. “We’re not just focusing solely on household names. Feedback from our first show indicated that audience members enjoyed being introduced to writers they weren’t already familiar with. Simon and I remain committed to giving writers that readers may not yet know a platform to be discovered. In addition to the five main panels, we’re also planning extra elements to ensure that we shine a spotlight on as many authors as possible.”

“About a third of the audience at the first show were people coming from outside the North East,” Simon says. “And they loved Whitley Bay – we even had one couple tell us they’re intending to move up here permanently! We worked closely with several local businesses for that event, but we’re going to be doing much more for 2023. We’re working with pubs, restaurants and cafes to provide offers for show attendees, we’ve got The Bound bookshop on-site all day selling books, and between now and March we’re working with local charities on some special elements for the show.”

One difference for the pair is the fact that Whitley based author of Vera, Shetland and the Matthew Venn series, Ann Cleeves, OBE, has taken on the official role of patron following her support behind the scenes. Ann says, “The first Bay Tales was a delight from start to finish and the whole town can’t wait to welcome everyone back in 2023.”

“We’re so grateful to have Ann’s support,” Vic says. “She’s been behind us all the way since we started our online shows and to have her as our official patron

is such an honour. It’s incredible that someone so pivotal in the crime writing world - and the north east - has backed us.”

Ann will be kicking off the show along with her special guest, Northern Irish award-winning author, Brian McGilloway. Following her keynote session, Ann says she’s looking forward to watching the four panel discussions to follow, featuring more than 15 authors running throughout the day.

The Doors Open at 08:45, and the Show Starts: 09:30 on Saturday March 4th. The full list of Confirmed Authors are:Ann Cleeves, Brian McGilloway, Abir Mukherjee, Ruth Ware, Jack Jordan, Lin Anderson, Trevor Wood, Jo Callaghan, Fiona Cummins, Alex North, C.J Tudor, Laure Van Rensburg, Lia Middleton, CM Ewan, Jonathan Whitelaw, Nasheema Lennon and Karen Woods.

You can find the full line up details at www.baytales.com/baytaleslive2023

All day tickets are available now online or in person at the box office at Whitley Bay Playhouse for £35 (plus booking fee) or direct from the Bay Tales team via baytales20@gmail.com

Ann Cleeves OBE

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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 forward to in the with a selction of spring tours, including an adventure in the Welsh countryside, an all inclusive drinks trip to Blackpool and Harrogate or a tour of Scotland's north west passage.

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.

The Crown Hotel, Harrogate

Barony Hotel, from the Sensational Scotland Tour

Your driver Graham looks forward to welcoming you aboard!

£30 PERDEPOSIT SECURESPERSON BOOKINGYOUR

QUALITY COACH TOURS

3 Star Plus Hotels ● All Excursions Included

No Interchanges ● Local Family Company ● 2 Crew Onboard

Complimentary Tea/Coffee And Biscuits On Travel Days

BLACKPOOL & HARROGATE

ALL INCLUSIVE DRINKS PACKAGE - 6th March

2 Nights Blackpool - Imperial Hotel Plus

2 Nights Harrogate - Crown Hotel DB&B - £450pp*

RED ROSE COUNTY TOUR - 13th March

Foxfields Country Hotel, Ribble Valley

5 days, 4 nights DB&B - £465pp

SCOTLAND’S NORTH WEST PASSAGE - 24th April

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

PLUS OTHER TOURS INCLUDING:

Cambridge, St Albans, Bury St. Edmunds - 4 Nights ● Ireland Tour - 4 Nights

North & South Wales - 7 Nights ● Ireland - 5 Nights ● Taste of Scotland - 4 Nights

Isle Of Man - 4 Nights ● Ales & Haunted Tales - 4 Nights Potters Totally All-Inclusive 5 Star Resorts ...Plus Much More!

* plus single room supplement

Visit our website or call us for more information

THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S EYE PART 2 – LEADING LINES

As part of a series of articles designed to help you take better images, Anne Watson, a member of the Whitley Bay Photographic Society, delves further into the world of composition.

We continue our look at composition to help you create photographs with impact and that can stand out from the millions of images uploaded to the internet each and every day.

In Part 1, we explored the ‘Rule of Thirds’ grid lines to emphasize either the sky or the ground when photographing landscapes or using the intersecting points of the grid to focus the viewers’ attention to a specific part of the image. Another powerful technique is to compose your images using ‘Leading Lines’ to guide the viewer into the image or to the part/s of the image you want their eye to focus on.

Straight lines are a good place to start, as this photographer has done on the beach at Blyth (1), using the pier to guide the viewer’s eye to the impending storm on the horizon. Newcastle’s High Level bridge (2) offered a series of leading lines which leaves the viewer’s eye little opportunity to wander aimlessly around the image.

Once you start looking for them, manmade leading lines are everywhere. A road, a rough footpath, a fence line, a wall – the list is endless.

The natural world rarely provides straight lines but does offer a range of curves which can be used to guide the viewers eye in exactly the same way. In this view of Whitley Bay (3), the photographer has used the curve of the beach and promenade to lead the viewers eye foreground to the interesting cloud formation on the horizon which is where they want you to focus. This image has also used the ‘Rule of Thirds’ to place the sky in the top third of the image.

Leading lines are an easy, but powerful, tool you can use to compose an image where you have an element of control over where the viewers eye starts and where it finishes.

In the next edition we’ll continue looking at composition and at why ‘odds’ are more powerful than ‘evens’ and breaking the ‘Rule of Thirds’ to help your images stand out and get noticed.

If you’re interested in joining the Whitley Bay Photographic Society, please visit www.wbphoto.org

BLOW OFF THE COBWEBS

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

VOTERS WILL NEED PHOTO ID FROM MAY

From May, voters must provide photo ID to be able to vote in person. At Age UK North Tyneside, we’re aware that this may cause difficulty for some of our customers, so we've put together this brief guide to help you.

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.

WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR HELP?

We understand that changes like this can cause a lot of stress and uncertainty. The Age UK North Tyneisde team are here for you. For help and support around the changes to voter ID, or for any other issues, call us on 0191 280 8484 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside.

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

RASPBERRY TARTLETS

Indulge yourself with these exquisite mini desserts

TIP

bases, line the tins with baking parchment, fill with baking beans and bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the beans and paper and return the bases to the oven for 5 minutes, until cooked and a pale golden-brown. Set aside to cool.

5. Meanwhile, to make the crème pâtissière, put the milk and vanilla in a saucepan. Heat until it is just scalding (you’ll just be able to dip your finger in).

6. Put the sugar, flour and egg in a mixing bowl and whisk. Pour in half the hot milk and whisk until smooth. Pour in the remaining hot milk.

INGREDIENTS

Pastry

• 175g plain flour, plus extra for dusting

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• 100g butter, chilled, cut into small pieces

• 1 egg, beaten

• Crème Pâtissière

• 150ml whole milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 25g caster sugar

• 25g plain flour

• 1 free-range egg

• 75ml double cream

Raspberry Topping

• 4 tbsp raspberry jam

• 450g raspberries

You will need 8 small 10cm loose-bottomed metal tart tins and some baking beans.

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6.

2. To make the pastry, put the flour, icing sugar and butter in a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg and blend again until it is just combined and forms a ball.

3. Dust a work surface with flour and tip the dough onto it. Roll the pastry out with a rolling pin. Cut it into eight rounds a little bigger than the tins (as you will need to line the sides also). Line each tin with a disc of pastry and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.

4. To bake blind, prick the pastry

7. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over a low heat, stirring all the time, until very thick – this could take about 2–3 minutes.

8. Pour into a bowl, cover with cling film and chill in the fridge until cold. Once cold, pour in the double cream, while whisking constantly. Spoon the crème pâtissière into the tart cases and chill in the fridge.

9. To make the glaze, heat the jam in a saucepan with a tablespoon of water and whisk to combine. Strain the liquid through a sieve into a small bowl.

10. Arrange the raspberries standing upright on the crème pâtissière and brush the warm glaze over the top.

If you're short on time, use shop-bought tartlet cases.

OUR EYES HAVE NEVER WORKED HARDER

That’s why we believe in providing the best eye care possible.

Concept is not your average high street opticians. Based in the heart of Tynemouth this boutique clinic deconstructs what excellence looks like and traverses the boundaries of optical technology and eye wear. At a time when safeguarding our wellbeing and determining what we invest in has never been more vital, Concept is predicated on celebrating health and humanity. Our mission is to provide a community service for local people, underpinned by advanced diagnostics, the latest lenses and space age technology for optimum results.

You need more than one frame

For spectacle and contact lens wearers, a spare of glasses is vital. At Concept, the ‘story behind the frame’ is a central narrative. We believe you deserve choice by enabling you to have the right tools to meet your visual requirements with comfort and style. Different glasses for different needs are no longer a whimsical preserve. It’s about recognising our wellbeing and the functionality of our lives. With work, play and leisure, our lives are becoming more complex and idiosyncratic in response to the world around us. You are no longer a spectator.

A plan designed with you in mind

The Concept Eye Care Programme now offers

more choice and flexibility to reflect just that. It’s an intelligent and practical, interest free plan to help make the purchase of how ever many pairs of glasses you need, affordable. Your plan is bespoke to your needs and most importantly gives you unparalleled access to an advanced diagnostic eye examination. Say goodbye to ‘routine’ and expect more from your eye examination at Concept. With the diagnostic components of an advanced eye exam and contact lens assessment, we can detect, predict and look after your eyes, before it’s too late.

Our investment in your vision sets us apart from high street opticians. Your care plan is designed to give you access to an advanced eye examination, and discounts on purchases for complete peace of mind. It includes:

• DIAGNOSTIC TECHNOLOGY

OCT (Ocular Coherence Tomography) provides imaging technology, similar to ultrasound, that enables us to monitor and check for conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, vitreous detachments and more. The Optos provides ultra-wide field imaging of the retina.

•

LENS TECHNOLOGY

You can now experience a revolutionary eye test with high precision technology of the Rodenstock DNEye® Scanner to integrate the measurements into your lenses for anatomical precision and perfect vision.

•

DESIGNER FRAMES

All spectacle wearers need a second pair. You can enjoy discounts on luxury frames from

our latest collections Tom Ford, Barton Perreia, Booth & Bruce, Jaguar, Oliver Peoples or CHANEL…as often as you like.

As your local opticians, we are proud to provide all this as part of your eye care plan

Start the year prioritising your health and wellbeing. At Concept, we’ve got you covered.

Call us today 0191 296 6124

to book your eye examination and ASK about our interest free care plan to enjoy the benefits of advanced diagnostic eye care and beautiful eye wear and lenses as often as you like from only £7.99 a month.

PLEA TO STOP HARMFUL BALLOON AND LANTERN RELEASES

Councils are 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 environmentally friendly.

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

“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.

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)

SOLUTIONS

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.

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

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D Each of our cars are hand selected and go through rigorous checks by factory trained technicians.

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TYNEMOUTH’S ‘FORGOTTEN’ HOSTEL REMEMBERED

Blue plaque unveiled to honor WWII Jewish refugee hostel

A blue plaque has been unveiled to mark the location of a ‘forgotten’ hostel for young Jewish refugees in Tynemouth.

In 1939, 55 Percy Park became a home and place of refuge for more than 20 Jewish girls who fled persecution in Nazi-controlled parts of Europe. They arrived via the Kindertransport initiative, an ambitious rescue effort which saw more than 10,000 Jewish children and young people safely transported into Great Britain.

The hostel was set up and funded by the Newcastle Jewish Refugee Committee with the support of local families. Most of the girls, aged between five and 14, would be the only members of their family to survive the genocide.

The little-known story of 55 Percy Street is the subject of a new five-part BBC podcast, The Girls: The Holocaust Safe House, which tells of the girls’ journey and arrival in the North East.

North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Dame Norma Redfearn DBE, said: “It is a great honour to mark what has been, up until now, a very much hidden part of our local history. Occasions like this give us the opportunity to reflect upon the horror of the Holocaust, of course. But these occasions are also a chance to celebrate the solidarity, kindness and humanity shown to those who, through no fault of their own, find themselves as strangers in a land far from home.

The unveiling ceremony in January was attended by members of the public and special guests, including author Dr Vivien Sieber, the current homeowners Martin and Rosemary Anderson, and Brenda Dinsdale and Marta Josephs from the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.

Dr Sieber’s grandmother, Paula, arrived in London in 1938 as a refugee from Vienna, where she ran a cinema and became a matron at 55 Percy Park. Her new book ‘Kino and Kinder’ tells the story of her family’s flight from Nazi persecution.

She said: “The hostel was funded by a committee from Newcastle. They raised money from the local communities and had to pay for everything – food, clothing, heat, and medicine because there was no NHS. Although it was set up as a temporary hostel, they ended up running it for six years. When heavy bombing started, they were given three weeks to

organise a move to a house in Windermere, which didn’t close until 1946.

“I think the ‘Ordinary People’ theme applies amazingly because you have the ordinary people who set up the committee and did the funding, and local families and communities who need to be remembered asked the communities to provide things.

“Given it was a time of great poverty and hardship, the communities went on funding the hostel right through to 1946, which is rather unusual. I think it tells you a lot about hope, even in a really dire time when terrible things were happening. It’s lovely that there is a plaque and that the story is being told.”

The current owners of number 55 are Martin and Rosemary Anderson. Martin said: “We found out this time last year from the BBC that the house was used as a hostel during the second world war, helping and supporting the Jewish community through an appalling time.

“It’s really nice to have the house as a part of history. It’s our home, but it’s played a bigger part in other people’s lives…there’s lots of threads to the story and the more people aware of its history, the better."

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE, GARAGE DOORS

Whether you’re looking to enhance the look of your property, replace a worn out garage door or prevent draughts, AI Garage Doors have a door to suit your needs.

Give them a call and they will guide you through the process, ensuring you select the right garage door to meet your requirements.

From Side Hinged to Roller, Sectional to Up and Over, there are many to choose from.

Side Hinged (also known as side opening or ‘swing’ garage doors) are a traditional style of garage door that are exactly what they say they are: garage doors hinged at the sides, nearly always opening outwards. A simple and very effective type of door with the potential to offer great performance in security and insulation and ease of daily use.

Up and Over garage doors consist of a single panel of material. The door has to be pulled out and then pivoted up so it can slide along the roof of the garage. Roller garage doors, on the other hand, are made of a number of horizontal sections which are hinged together for flexibility. Because it rests on rollers, it can be lifted, and rolled into place along the roof of the garage.

Sectional doors are a great option if space on your drive is tight. They also take up less room in the garage since they can be placed higher than a up and over door.

Things to consider…

Insulation - Insulated doors can reduce heat loss due to foam-filled aluminium slats, which can help reduce your energy bills and is particularly good for houses with an integral garage. Their sound-proofing properties also offer acoustic insulation.

Remote control - For ease, convenience and even safety you can’t beat a remote-controlled door. Override - Make sure the remote can be manually overridden in case of power failure.

Security - Automatic door locking mechanisms are useful.

Safety – This one is a top priority. To ensure that an electric garage door is deemed safe for use, it will have to incorporate at least one sufficient safety feature into its mechanism which will prevent personal injury.

AI Garage Doors have been supplying, installing and maintaining garage doors in the Northumberland

and North Tyneside areas for over 15 years. They are Approved by the Guild of Master Craftsmen and have built a reputation as reputable and trusted specialists.

They offer a wide range of garage doors in a variety of colours, materials and features whilst offering excellent service and price without compromising on safety or security.

The doors they fit are all manufactured on a professional production line in the UK by a reputable garage door manufacturer and they conform with the standards expected throughout the industry.

With over 80 positive reviews on Checkatrade.com, they are highly recommended tradesmen who can install your new garage door in no time, transforming the appearance of your home.

The garage door is typically the largest moving part in your home and is probably used every day. With normal use, parts can eventually wear out and break, creating potential safety problems. Therefore AI Garage Doors also offer a full repair and maintenance service to keep your garage door running smoothly, so, whether you have something minor from a broken spring or snapped cable, or require a fully fitted automatic double door, they can help!

AI Garage Doors, Tel: 07931 304057 www.aigaragedoors.co.uk

East Coast Roofing & Building Ltd.

• Pitched, Flat and Fibreglass Re-Roof & Repairs

• Slating, Tiling & Guttering

• Pointing, Chimney Stacks & Ridges

• All Types of Roofing Insulation

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• UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Rain Water Goods

• New Builds & Repairs

• All Building Work Undertaken

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• Fibre Glass Roofing with 20 year

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NEW YEAR DIVORCES

Why Christmas isn't the most wonderful time of the year for many couples, by Jacqueline Emmerson of Emmersons Solicitors

In the UK, approximately 40% of marriages end in divorce, this can occur at any time, but there are two pivotal points in a Divorce Solicitors' calendar –September and just after Christmas.

Statistics show that after Christmas and the end of summer can signify the end of a relationship, with divorce enquiry rates rising sharply on January 10th and September 30th.

Tensions at both times of the year can become heated and fraught, it is a time when routines are off-balance and families are thrown together for intense periods. For some, this can signal a time of joy, but for others, it brings a period of such intensity that fragmented feelings and emotions begin to surface.

Holidays can often highlight the realisation of how family life ‘should’ be, leaving some partners wanting different things from their marriages. If there are already substantial cracks in a relationship, this expected ‘happy’ time can magnify and shine a light on the struggling situation, with many realising their marriage has most definitely come to an end.

We see an influx of caseloads during certain times of the year when strains in the marriage have hit boiling point. When we see people at this stage they are often in shock, so we offer a ‘Next Steps in Divorce Appointment’. The idea of this is for the client to send information in advance of the appointment via a questionnaire so that by the time they speak to one of our lawyers we have read through everything, and we fully understand their circumstances.

This process really helps to alleviate some of the stress of our clients who are still emotionally struggling. We see many instances post-holiday when one spouse has advised the other during the holiday period that the marriage is over, and in some cases a spouse has asked the other not to tell the children until they are home, elevating the stress factors further until the family return home.

Whatever the time of year, early access to legal advice from an experienced family law lawyer is key so individuals can seek legal advice on the best way forward for them. A ‘Next Steps’ appointment for those who are separating is vital so the team can go through what they are entitled to, explain the basic law and where the team think their case would settle.

There is a lot to take in and it’s vital that we explain their rights. When many come to see us they are terrified they might lose their home overnight. We run through their rights under The Matrimonial Home Act and explain how to preserve their position and also how to protect joint bank accounts.

We look at everything from how to prevent their partner from selling a house from under them if their name isn't on the deeds, going through advice on pensions, how to obtain enough money to maintain a household, either their own or the other party’s.

With the new No Fault Divorce now in play, things have changed hugely, and if one spouse is on the receiving end of a divorce, they can no longer stop or slow down the process. It places parties under a huge amount of pressure to reach a settlement faster than usual. With many more people blindsided by the speed of the process, obtaining the right legal advice early is crucial.

Choosing the right divorce lawyer is critical. The period around a divorce will be an emotional and sensitive time, so it will be vital to develop a trusting working relationship with your lawyer. Emmersons is an award-winning local family Law Firm specialising in divorce, offering Divorce Solicitors in both Sunderland and Newcastle, with the capacity to represent clients based all over the UK and Expats living abroad.

The team at Emmersons Solicitors understand that the breakdown of a marriage or relationship can be a very difficult time. For that reason, we provide you with a sympathetic but practical approach to help you deal with the sensitive issues affecting you and your family.

There are occasions when divorce may have been in the pipeline for a while. Breaking the news to children will never be an easy conversation and may come as a huge shock to them.

When children are in the mix, our Family Lawyers and Divorce Law Specialists assist with children’s matters and can go through things such as how to arrange for the children to see our client if the other party has taken the children. Through to where a child will live, how often they see both of their parents, where they will stay during holidays etc. We also regularly act for grandparents who wish to see their grandchildren.

No matter how difficult the situation is, with our assistance, it can be resolved. At times we are a pivotal emotional support and try to make clients feel comfortable and someone to fall back on. The aim is to offer the best possible advice and deal and not just go along with the other party’s suggestion of what is a reasonable settlement.

We are there to help with emotional and legal support and to get people through this difficult time and to help them move on with their life. I remember one of the happiest moments in my career was to say hello to a former client when I saw them in a shop. They didn't have a clue who I was, and it made me happy because they had moved on, and I was but a distant memory – that is the point that I want our clients to reach.

If you need help with your divorce or separation, then why not contact us and see how we can help you? We can assist you to reach agreement, avoid court and move on with your life.

Call 0191 2846989 or email enquiries@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk www.emmersons-solicitors.co.uk

If your relationship has just ended we understand that you may feel lost or worried. EMMERSONS SOLICITORS has helped thousands of people in your situation.

You will find us to be very approachable. We can offer you help with divorce, separation, financial settlements, arrangements for children, pre-nuptial agreements and same sex partnerships.

Our well-trained staff can obtain the best settlement for you. Due to their experience, excellent negotiating skills and use of Round Table Meetings the vast majority of our clients never have to visit court.

Why not let us help you reach agreement, avoid court and move on with your life. Contact us now on 0191 284 6989 to see how we can help you.

137a Back High Street, Gosforth

SAVE MONEY ON BROADBAND & PHONE BILLS

Age UK North Tyneside explain Social Tariffs and how they can help

From maximising income to cutting costs, we're all trying to find ways to save money. But did you know you might be able to save on your broadband and phone packages with a social tariff?

Social tariffs are available to people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits. You might have heard them referred to as ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband by some providers. They’re delivered in the same way as normal packages, just at a lower price.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SOCIAL TARIFF?

It's available to those on a variety of benefits. If you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit, you could switch to any of the tariffs available.

It's cheaper than a regular package. Current prices range from £10 to £20.

Fast, unlimited broadband. Most tariffs offer superfast broadband at speeds over 30 Mbit/s – fast enough for you to keep in touch with friends and family, stream high definition films or shop online.

You'll pay next to nothing to get set up. If you do have to pay any setup costs, these should only be small. Your provider should tell you before you sign up.

It could cost nothing to switch. If your provider offers a social tariff, you can switch to it at any time, free of charge.The price won't go up mid-contract. You won't pay any more than what you agree at the start of the contract.

It costs nothing to leave. You won't pay a fee to leave the tariff before the end of your contract.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR A SOCIAL TARIFF?

If you or someone in your household claims Universal Credit, you could switch to any of the tariffs available. Some providers also include people on other benefits such as Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Income Support. The person receiving the benefit will need to be the main person on the contract.

Age UK North Tyneside can help you determine if you are eligible for a social tariff and assist you in the application process. Even if you're not currently receiving one of these benefits, our team can help you find out if you're eligible. Call Age UK North Tyneside today on 0191 280 8484.

HOW DO YOU APPLY FOR A SOCIAL TARIFF?

First, check if your current provider offers a social tariff. You can apply for most tariffs online, or call your provider and ask to switch.

If your provider doesn’t offer a social tariff, you can switch to one that does. Your provider might let you leave your current contract without paying a penalty fee.

For a full list of broadband and phone social tariffs, head to www.ofcom.org.uk/social-tariffs.

WHAT OTHER SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?

There is lots of support available for people aged 50+ in North Tyneside. To find out what additional support you may be eligible for, call us today on 0191 280 8484 or get in touch online via www.ageuk.org.uk/ northtyneside

A PASSION FOR PEACHES

By Rachael Leverton

Nothing beats biting into a sweet, succulent peach that has ripened to juicy perfection in the warmth of the sun. Despite possessing an exotic air, it doesn’t require great expertise to produce a worthwhile crop in your garden.

When we rented a house in the South of France one summer, there was a peach tree in the garden, and the owner invited us to help ourselves. We have never eaten so many sweet, ripe peaches. Nothing in the supermarkets here has ever compared to those fat globes of nectar.

A few years ago, I discovered that it was possible to grow peaches in this country, too, with a few caveats. In the far South, it’s possible to grow them against a south or south-west-facing wall. Further up the country, we need the help of a conservatory or a large greenhouse. The reasons for this are threefold: peach trees tend to flower very early, around February, when the UK can still suffer sharp frosts in the mornings; they also develop fungal diseases if the weather is too cold and damp and finally, our short summers generally don’t give enough time for the fruits to ripen. But if you have that south-facing wall or conservatory and would like to have a go at growing peaches (and who wouldn’t?), read on.

‘Peregrine’ is a white-fleshed peach quite well-suited to the English climate (the above warnings notwithstanding) though generally best grown under cover. ‘Rochester’ is a very reliable yellow variety that gives good harvests of large fruits in August. It also has the advantage of being a late bloomer, making it less susceptible to frost damage. If space is limited, which it often is in a conservatory, choose a plant grafted onto dwarf rootstock. Peaches are best grown

as a fan. Fasten horizontal wires to the wall at 30cm intervals to allow the stems to be tied in and spaced out evenly. The plant should be positioned about 25cm from the wall with branches sloped towards it, and if planted directly into the soil, this should be enriched with well-rotted manure or compost. If planted into a pot, make it as large and deep as the space allows. Cover the plant with a light fleece at night when the flowers appear to protect the blossom. Because of the lack of natural pollinators early in the year, you can help things along by using a long dry paintbrush to dust pollen from one flower to another. Then water the plant regularly and feed with tomato food through the summer to keep it healthy. Prune any branches that grow away from the wall, and remove any that overcrowd the framework. Cut some old and fruited lateral shoots out each year to allow new ones to take their place.

Fruit is ready for harvesting after it has fully coloured and the flesh near the stalk feels soft. To pick, cup it in the palm of the hand and gently lift. It should easily come away from the tree. The tree will need regular visits for picking as the fruit will not ripen all at once. Peaches are best eaten directly

after being picked. It might take a couple of years, but with a bit of care, attention, and a smidge of luck, you will reap the reward of harvesting your own peaches.

DID YOU KNOW?

● There are over 2000 varieties of peaches in the world.

● Scientifically the peach tree is know as prunus persica.

● Peach originate from Northwest China, but today it can be found in many parts of the world.

● The average lifespan of a peach tree is about 12 years.

● Besides color, peaches are also distinguished by how their pits separate from the flesh. Clingstone – the flesh sticks to the pit; Freestone – the pit is easily separated from the flesh.

● The Ancient Romans referred to the peach as malum persicum “Persian apple”, later becoming French pêche, hence the English “peach”.

USEFUL NUMBERS

NORTH TYNESIDE COUNCIL 0345 2000 101

Monday - Friday 7.30am - 8pm

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

24 hours a day. Confidential helpline for children and young people.

RAPE CRISIS 0800 035 2794

Mon - Thu (6pm - 8.30pm), Fri (11am - 2pm)

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

0800 9177 650

CRUISE BEREAVEMENT CARE

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

THE SILVER HELPLINE 0800 4 70 80 90

24 hrs a day. Offering free confidential, friendship and advice for older people.

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 on the range of benefits available.

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.

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EXPLORING THE MYSTICAL TALES OF NORTHUMBERLAND

A look at local author Rob Kirkup's latest book

Northumberland, England's most northerly county, is known for its spectacular countryside and coastline, as well as its rich history and culture. It's no surprise, then, that the county is also home to a wealth of myths, legends, and fantastical tales. In his latest book, "Illustrated Tales of Northumberland," local author Rob Kirkup brings readers a selection of these captivating stories, many of which are set in the county's many castles.

One such tale is set in the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, where a warlock commands a skeletal army to prevent Sir Guy the Seeker from rescuing a maiden in distress on a stormy night. Another legend suggests that King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table may be resting in eternal slumber beneath the Northumberland countryside, waiting to rise again in England's hour of need.

While some of the tales in the book are based on factual events, others have mystical roots, but all are

nonetheless intriguing and fascinating. Kirkup, a dedicated ghost hunter from the north east, has had a lifelong fascination with the supernatural and has established himself as an expert in the field with over 50 investigations and several published books on the subject.

"Illustrated Tales of Northumberland" is the latest in Amberley's "Illustrated Tales" series and offers a unique insight into the county's rich folklore and legends. It is available in both print and digital formats, making it a great choice for residents and visitors alike, as well as those interested in heritage and visitor attractions.

The book will be available from 15th February from www.amberley-books.com and all good bookshops.

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: £300 inclusive of VAT

Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £420 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

WIN WHILE YOU SAVE

The history of Premium Bonds

Do you own any Premium Bonds? More than 21 million of us own at least one, and their history dates back to the 19th century.

By 1861 the British Empire was wealthy, but ordinary citizens were not. They had little opportunity to save. A Huddersfield banker called Charles Sikes wanted to change this. He proposed a scheme to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, William Gladstone. Gladstone approved and decided there should be a savings bank within "...an hour's walk of every working man's fireside.”.

The Post Office Savings Bank was established to provide cheap funding to the Government, and the Ordinary Savings Account was born. Because the Government secured the funds, people felt it was a safe way to invest, so the project was a success, with 2500 branches opening within two years.

During the First World War, the Government needed to borrow more money, so in 1916 it launched War Savings Certificates in 1916 and followed those with National War Bonds in 1917. These raised £433m (around £24 billion based on today's values).

During the Second World War, there was a similar National Savings campaign and deposits rose from £509m to £1,982m between 1939 and 1946.

After the war, the Government wanted to encourage people to save again, and on November 1st 1956, Premium Savings Bonds went on sale. These didn’t earn interest; instead, each £1 bond received a unique number and had an equal chance to win a prize in a monthly draw. £5 million worth of bonds were sold on the first day (about £121 million today).

So that each £1 bond had an equal chance of winning a prize, the draw needed to be truly random. Because of the complexity of the task, the Government used the team behind the Second World War code-

By Jamie Maxfield

breaker, Colossus, to build a piece of Electronic Random Number Indicator Equipment dubbed ERNIE. This machine generated bond numbers based on the signal noise created by gas neon diodes. The original ERNIE was the size of a van and took ten days to complete a draw. Over the past several decades, ERNIE has been through several iterations. The current machine is ERNIE 5, which was introduced in 2019. ERNIE 5 is powered by quantum technology which uses light rather than thermal noise to generate random numbers and takes just 12 minutes to complete a draw.

Back in 1956, you had to own a bond for six months to be entered into the draw; now, it's one full calendar month. Initially, you could only invest £500 maximum, and the biggest prize was £1000. In a time when the average weekly pay was £10 per week, and average house prices were just under £2000, it must have seemed like a huge sum.

Today, you can hold up to £50,000 worth of Premium Bonds, and the maximum prize is £1 million with two chances to win the jackpot each month. There are also many smaller prizes down to a modest £25. 82 billion bonds go into the draw each month, so the odds of any individual bond winning a prize (no matter how small) is 24500 to 1. More than £350 000 of bonds from 1956 are still active today and eligible for entry into the monthly draw.

Believe it or not, even in the present economic climate, there are currently over 1.6 million prizes worth more than £63 million which have not been claimed. Perhaps now might be a good time to check to see whether you have any old Premium Bonds in your name which have been forgotten about. You might get lucky!

NOTE: Before making any financial decisions, you are advised to consult a professional—financial adviser.

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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!

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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.

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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

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

A GOOD READ

By Tash Donovan

THE MIDWIFE OF AUSCHWITZ

by Anna Stuart

Ana Kaminski is a midwife who is taken to Auschwitz with her young friend Ester Pasternak. As they pass through the iron gates and reach the front of the processing line, Ana steps forward and quietly declares her profession, saying Ester is her assistant. Their arms are tattooed, and they’re ordered to the maternity hut. There Ana vows to do everything she can to save the lives of mothers and their infants.

But she soon learns that the SS snatch the blondhaired babies from their mothers to place them with German families. In spite of her horror, Ana realises that for these children, there is at least the hope of survival. With rumours of the war ending, Ana and Ester begin to secretly tattoo the newborns with their mother’s numbers, praying one day they might be reunited.

The novel is fiction, but it’s based on a true story, and many of the characters are based on real people at Birkenau (the largest camp in the Auschwitz complex). Ana is a Catholic, Ester is Jewish, and Ana was the midwife who delivered her. Ana’s family were part of the Resistance helping Jewish people escape the Nazi enforced Ghetto until Ana was arrested along with two of her sons. Her husband and other son were not home at the time, so Ana does not know what happened to them at the time she arrives in Auschwitz. She and Ester cling to their friendship and each other through the horror and evil around them. When Liberation comes, will they find a way to get home together? And what awaits them there?

Anna Stuart’s sensitive, beautiful novel showcases one woman’s incredible story, which is a tribute to those who suffered at the hands of the Nazis.

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.

To buy some of these books online while supporting your local independent bookshop, scan the QR code or visit uk.bookshop.org/shop/abcmagazines

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