ABC Magazine: Whitley Bay Edition - Oct/Nov 22

Football Crazy: Are You Ready For The World Cup?

With the first ever midseason World Cup just around the corner, here are a few fun World Cup facts to get you in the mood for a winter festival of football.

• The World Cup is usually held in June and July, but the host this year is Qatar. The subtropical desert climate of Qatar always results in scorching summers, with temperatures averaging between 32-27 degrees, often peaking much higher than this. Hence, the authorities felt playing football during these months would be too dangerous. So, as part of their winning bid for hosting the World Cup, Qatar agreed to stage the tournament in November and December, where typical temperatures are a more comfortable 21-26 degrees.

• The first World Cup took place back in 1930. Jules Rimet, a French football administrator who was the third and longest serving President of FIFA, wanted to create an international competition between men's football teams. The first World Cup tournament consisted of thirteen invited teams and took place in Uruguay, who then won the competition.

• The World Cup has been played every four years since this inaugural tournament, except in 1942 and 1946, when it was suspended due to World War II. This is the 22nd tournament.

• Brazil has won the most World Cups, with five, while Italy and Germany are close behind, with four each.

• The oldest goalscorer in World Cup history is Roger Milla, who, at

the ripe old age of 42, scored for Cameroon against Russia in 1994.

• The winning team is awarded the World Cup Trophy. Although the team enjoys celebrating and being photographed with the trophy after the final, they don't get to take it away with them. They are sent home with a replica.

The current Jules Rimet trophy has been presented to winning teams since 1970. It is made of 18-carat gold and weighs in at 13.5 pounds (just over 6Kg).

At the tournament's inception in 1930, FIFA decided that if any nation won three finals, they would be given the trophy to keep.

In 1970 Brazil achieved this feat when they defeated Italy in the final in Mexico, so the trophy was presented to the Brazilian Sports Confederation. The trophy was displayed on the third floor of the CBF offices in Rio. 13 years later, on the night of 19th of December, the security guard was overpowered by a group of thieves, and the trophy disappeared. It has never been found.

• Egyptian Goalkeeper, Essam El Hadary, is the oldest player to ever play in the World Cup at the age of 45, having played at the 2018 Russian World Cup.

•The highest scoring game in World Cup history was in 1854 when Austria defeated Switzerland 7-5.

• The biggest margin of victory in a World Cup game came in 1982 when Hungary beat El Salvador 10-1.

• The fastest goal at the World Cup took only 11 seconds! The scorer was Hakan Suker, who netted for Turkey against South Korea in 2002. England's Bryan Robson had previously held the record when he broke the deadlock against France in 1982 after only 27 seconds.

• While 32 teams have again qualified for this year's tournament, that number will jump to 48 in 2026, when the tournament will be spread across three countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico.

• England have only ever hosted the tournament once, in 1966, which was also the only time they ever won the tournament, defeating Germany in a dramatic last-minute 4 – 2 win.

Will 2022 be the year England finally wins the tournament on foreign soil? Let's hope that after almost 60 years of hurt, football once again comes home!

North East Theatre Company To StageWorld Premiere This Month

A dynamic theatre company is set to stage its first ever world premiere in the North East, with an original production set in the region during the 14th century. Elysium Theatre Company, based in Durham, will bring ‘Reiver – Tales from the Borders’, to eleven venues across the region during November and December.

During the first Covid-19 lockdown, Elysium had to cancel all of its live dates, so the forward-thinking theatre company instead began producing a revolutionary series of one-person ‘Covid-19 Monolgues’ which were streamed online.

These were a huge success, so much so that one production was expanded and rewritten into ‘Reiver –Tales from the Borders’; a three-person play set during the 1500s, when Reivers ‘raiders’ terrorized the AngloScottish border.

Written by Newcastle-based, Northumberland-born playwright Steve Byron, three interlocking stories –‘Blackmail’, ‘Godforsaken Place’ and ‘The Widow’s Path’ – paint a portrait of a world not unlike our own, in which corruption and evil force ordinary people to take a stand. With a North East cast of Micky Cochrane, Steven Stobbs and Karen Traynor as an innocent farmer, an exiled lawman and a young woman sold into slavery who defy the Reivers, ‘Reiver - Tales From The Borders’ will visit a mixture of historical sites, rural communities and major theatres across the North East and Cumbria: Steve Byron said: “This all started when director Jake Murray asked me to submit a piece as part of the Covid-19 Monologues project. “For a long time I had been dabbling with the idea of writing something historical. I was always intrigued about that part of history in Northumberland and Jake said I could write whatever I want so I thought I would have a go at it.”

“That became Blackmail, and it was a real success when it was streamed online. When it came to what I wanted to do next I decided to write two further stories, and these have now been brought together and are touring theatres and community venues. I wanted to create something that would have people on the edge of their seats, three thrilling stories where people care for the characters and are itching to know what’s going to happen next!”

“This is me testing the waters to see if I can write in this way and see if the audience will enjoy it, then will look at developing even bigger pieces and hopefully

eventually get it onto the screen.”

The Reivers were an area of Northumberland that, for 400 years between the 14th and 17 th centuries, were owned by neither Scotland or England. This gave way to lawlessness, with families and clans battling for supremacy. Steve revealed he wanted to focus on this period because of his love of the past, and to help bring a slice of local history to North East communities.

He added: “A lot of people don’t know about the Reivers and what they were about. This was the 14 th century equivalent of the Wild West! They were very dark and dangerous times and if you were not part of those powerful clans it must have been very terrifying.

“I am a huge fan of westerns and gangster movies and that was what was basically going on at that time in the North East! It is entirely fiction but everything I have written is based on fact, and is all still valid today – it is about powerlessness and helplessness, and I hope people who come and see it can feel for the characters and relate to them in some way.”

The full tour details are:

16 & 17 Nov – Alnwick Playhouse, Alnwick

18 Nov – The Exchange, North Shields

19 Nov – Ushaw Historic House, Durham County

23 Nov – Hatfield College, Durham City

24 Nov – Dufton Village Hall, Appleby

25 Nov – Mickleton Village Hall, Mickleton

26 Nov – Wark Town Hall & Mechanics Institute, Wark

27 Nov – Allendale Village Hall, Allendale

29 Nov – Newcastle Castle, Newcastle Upon Tyne

30 Nov – Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, Hexham

1 Dec – Dovecote Centre, Amble

North Shields Cultural Quarter Open For Business

The first phase of the ambitious restoration work to North Shields town centre is now complete.

The project, which is part of North Tyneside Council’s regeneration masterplan for North Shields and the Fish Quay, has seen the redevelopment of the historic Northumberland Square, Howard Street and surrounding area.

Sympathetic to its heritage and roots, works began last September to take the square back to its original Georgian layout of footpaths and a perimeter of trees, enhancing the biodiversity of the park by introducing thousands of new plants.

The project, which was supported and co-founded by Historic England, creates a new Cultural Quarter for North Shields, incorporating Northumberland Square, Howard Street and surrounding area to support sustainable economic and cultural growth to restore and enhance local historic character.

Traditional sandstone paving and cobbled-style paths have been installed throughout the square, with new contemporary lighting and up-lighting to trees. The addition of new plants and shrubs, as well as a native beech hedgerow will help diversify habitats and enhance ecology, creating a biodiversity net-gain to the conservation area.

Howard Street offers a shared highway surface for occasional vehicle use, creating a new pedestrian and cyclist-friendly cultural scene, giving a nod to the original historic footway geometry. An avenue of trees and seating has been installed leading up to the Square from the Fish Quay, as part of our tree planting programme which contributes to the borough’s net-zero 2030 ambitions.

The thoroughfare between Northumberland Square and North Shields retail centre has undergone reinstatement of period curtilage detail, including a bleed of natural materials appropriate to the conservation area and allowing for a good pedestrian link from Bedford Street to the square.

Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside and cabinet member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Square complete and already in use and being enjoyed by local residents and visitors, particularly at the first major event on Monday: the multicultural celebration that is North Tyneside Together.

“The reshaping of Northumberland Square and Howard Street creates a

welcoming modern feel and tranquil, pleasant and more flexible space in this historic part of the town for events and leisure activities that everyone can enjoy, adding to the appeal of the town centre and complementing the other North Shields regeneration projects that are now well underway.”

The scheme was developed in partnership with Capita.

Capita’s North Tyneside Partnership Director, Margie Burdis, said: Margie Burdis said: “We’re delighted to be helping North Tyneside Council achieve its exciting vision for North Shields.

“The transformation of Howard Street and Northumberland Square is simply incredible – and it was great to see the park quickly being put to good use during the North Tyneside Together event. Our site team worked closely with the Council to help keep everyone informed about progress and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank residents and businesses for their patience during construction.

“Now, having seen such a great end result, I personally can’t wait for us to work with the Council on a further phase of the masterplan.”

Image: North Tyneside Council

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North Shields Hosts It’s First Ever World Snooker Tournament

The North East Snooker Centre, based on Queen Alexander Road in North Shields, were delighted to hold the first ever World Snooker Q Tour tournament in the North East. Over 120 entrants from all over the world arrived for a weekend of top quality snooker last month.

The tournament attracted competitors of all ages and standards, as shown in the picture, where you can see the eldest participant Maureen Rowland, along with the youngest Stan Moody. They are joined by MP Alan Campbell and local professionals Gary Wilson, David Lilly and Elliott Slessor, all of whom practice at the venue run by Paul and Alison Rinaldi.

The North East Snooker Centre, based on Queen Alexander Road, is the only club in the North East to play host to four Professional Star tables, the same type of table you see on televised events. The centre also has two high quality Riley Aristocrat tables with steel block cushions, and four standard Riley tables, similar to those found in most social clubs, but in tip-top condition.

For those new to the game, or even for experienced players wanting to build their potting confidence, the club has a high quality ¾ table. For ardent 9-ball and 8-ball pool players, the couple have installed tournament quality tables, offering the best

playing surfaces for both sports. Also, be assured you’re in good hands when seeking advice on improving all aspects of your game. Paul Rinaldi himself is a former professional player, and his main advice is always ‘Keep it Simple’. Paul is continually involved with many of the current top professionals and also helps run ‘The Cue Zone’ during the World Championships in Sheffield, as well as other ranking tournaments. If you’d like help from a coach who has made over 1000 century breaks then look no further. Whether you are a beginner looking for basic tips, or an experienced player seeking help with certain aspects of your game, pop in and see how Paul can help improve your game.

Because of the contacts Paul

has built up over the years, the centre has already hosted Professional Snooker Exhibitions and other quality events. In their first year, cue sport legends Dennis Taylor, Steve Davis and Cliff Thorburn, as well as world champions Shaun Murphy and Mark Williams, have all made appearances at the centre. With more events planned for the coming 12 months, keep an eye out for more world class stars coming to the area.

As well as catering for adult enthusiasts of all abilities, the club also provide quality coaching through their Saturday Morning Kids Club. Boys and Girls ages 8 to 16 will truly benefit from attending a fun-packed morning of cue sport activity.

For more details on all of the above, either call the centre on 0191 691 2091 or visit www.northeastsnookercentre.com The centre is open 11am - 11pm, 7 days a week.

Dennis Taylor, Steve Davis and Cliff Thorburn, as well as world champions Shaun Murphy and Mark Williams, have all made appearances at the centre.

Tournament competitors along with Alan Campbell MP and owners Paul and Alison Rinaldi

Film Releases

BLACK ADAM

Genres: Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi Age Rating: 12a Release date: 21st October

Nearly 5,000 years after he was bestowed with the almighty powers of the ancient gods - and imprisoned just as quickly - Black Adam (Dwayne Johnson) is freed from his earthly tomb, ready to unleash his unique form of justice on the modern world.

The cast also includes Aldis Hodge, Noah Centineo, Viola Davis, Pierce Brosna.

BARBARIAN

Genres: Horror, Thriller Age Rating: 18 Release date: 28th October

In ‘Barbarian’, a young woman traveling to Detroit for a job interview books a rental home.

But when she arrives late at night, she discovers that the house is double booked, and a strange man is already staying there. Against her better judgement, she decides to spend the evening, but soon discovers that there’s a lot more to fear than just an unexpected house guest.

CONFESS, FLETCH

Genres: Comedy, Crime Age Rating: 15

Release Date: 18th November

In this delightful comedy romp, Jon Hamm stars as the roguishly charming and endlessly trouble some Fletch, who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case while searching for a stolen art collection. The only way to prove his innocence? Find out which of the long list of suspects is the culprit - from the eccentric art dealer and a missing playboy to a crazy neighbor and Fletch’s Ital ian girlfriend. Crime, in fact, has never been this disorganized.

MIA AND ME: THE HERO OF CENTOPIA

Genres: Animation, Adventure Age Rating: U

Release date: 21st October

Based on the smash-hit TV series ‘Mia and Me’, a new adventure is about to begin in the mystical land of Centopia! When Mia discovers that her magical gem is part of a prophecy, she is transported through the power of an ancient book into the land of Centopia, a world of wonder now under threat from a poisonous and monstrous enemy known as Toxor. Taking destiny into their own hands, Mia and her friends embark on an adventure to save the world from evil.

LIVING

Genres: Drama Age Rating: 12a Release date: 4th November

‘Living’ is the story of an ordinary man, reduced by years of oppressive office routine to a shadow existence, who at the eleventh hour makes a supreme effort to turn his dull life into something wonderful - into one he can say has been lived to the full.

Set in London in 1953, Williams (Bill Nighy), a civil servant, is an impotent cog within the city’s bureaucracy. His life has long felt empty and meaningless. Then a shattering medical diagnosis forces him to take stock.

THE MENU

Genres: Comedy, Horror Age Rating: 18

Release date: 18th November

Young couple Margot and Tyler travel to a remote island to eat at Hawthorne, an exclusive restaurant run by celebrity chef Slowik, who has prepared a lavish molecular gastronomy menu where food is treated as conceptual art, but his approach to cuisine has some shocking surprises for the wealthy guests.

Starring Mark Mylod; Anya TaylorJoy; Nicholas Hoult and Ralph Fiennes.

Five Reasons to Visit The Biscuit Factory this Autumn

Newcastle-based art, craft and design gallery, The Biscuit Factory, is celebrating it’s 20th Birthday this November!

If you haven’t visited before, or haven’t been for a while, then this autumn might be the perfect opportunity to make time for your next visit. Here’s five reasons why:

1. Their varied collections of stunning original art

The Biscuit Factory works with hundreds of independent artists, showcasing thousands of pieces of art, each created by hand using a vast array of techniques. Visitors can view everything from original paintings to handcrafted jewellery, sculpture, textiles and furniture. This autumn, expect to find a new exhibition by Graham Rider whose work focuses on the hinterland between land and sea. Graham’s studies of the sand dunes and marshes often found in coastal locations aim to capture the feeling of standing within the scene itself. Always popular among those who recognise the sandy beaches of the Northumberland coast and hold memories of summer holidays spent there.

2. Affordable gift ideas from jewellery to homewares

If you’re looking for an original gift, The Biscuit Factory should definitely be on your radar. Their craft gallery stocks hundreds of smaller pieces, ideal for Birthday or Christmas gifts to family or friends. Pick up original, handmade pieces from under £25, including handcrafted candle holders, unique mugs and vases, or limited edition art prints.

Looking for something a little more personal? Their jewellery collection hosts over a dozen artists at any time, working in all sorts of materials from recycled plastics to precious stones. All budgets are catered for too, from silver ear studs at £20 to gold diamond rings.

If you don’t want the responsibility of choosing, you can opt for a gift voucher instead from £10, and pop it in one of the quirky greetings cards that they source from independent printers, designers and artists.

3. A roof-top terrace to enjoy the autumn sunshine

Located on the first floor of The Biscuit Factory, The Factory Kitchen’s rooftop garden terrace is a perfect oasis between the City and the Ouseburn Valley.

Even as the weather cools, their partially covered terrace is a popular spot when the sun is shining! Visitors can enjoy their delicious menu of brunch dishes, fresh salads and bakery. Finish up with homemade cakes or ice-cream (or both!) from their deli counter and wash it all down with tea, coffee, cocktails or wine. You’ll even

find local beers in their fridges from nearby Tyne Bank Brewery! Kids aren’t forgotten either, with their own minimenu and colouring activities.

4. Creative workshops to awaken your inner-artist

Get in touch with your inner-artist, learn a new skill, or just enjoy a different type of day out with friends. The Biscuit Factory’s range of workshops are a wonderful way to unwind and get your creativity flowing.

Led by professional artists or crafts practitioners, workshops include: embroidery, rug tufting, ceramic mug-making, printing, painting and drawing, and wire sculpture to name a few! All workshops are suitable for beginners, and you’ll always leave with your very own personal creation.

Keep a look out for their children’s Little Biscuits workshops too in the school half term holidays where kids can also learn how to create with clay, basic printing techniques, make masks, and more! Parents, carers or guardians also enjoy 10% discount in the cafe so they can relax while the kids get creative!

5. The Book Hus from Forum Books

North East Indie Bookstore legends Forum Books have had their own pop up in The Biscuit Factory for nearly 5 years! Situated on the ground floor of the gallery you’ll find The Book Hus, where you can discover a rotating range of unusual, exciting, and interesting titles alongside well-known publications. It’s an ideal place to pick up your next read, or choose a title to gift to a loved one instead. When you buy a book in The Book Hus you’ll also get a stamp on your Factory Kitchen loyalty card, so you can enjoy your purchase over a cuppa! What’s more, you’ll also find regular book events hosted at the gallery from Forum’s rosta of literary talent.

With free entry seven days a week, and so much to see and do, The Biscuit Factory is an ideal day out for the culture-seeker.

The Biscuit Factory, 16 Stoddart Street, Newcastle, NE2 1AN. Tel: 0191 261 1103 www.thebiscuitfactory.com

Become A Better Photographer

As part of a series of articles designed to help you take better images, Anne Watson, a member of Whitley Bay Photographic Society, discusses light and colour.

photography /fəˈtɑːgrəfi/ noun

The Latin translation of Photography is ‘light writing’. Reach for a dictionary and you’ll see the modern interpretation as being ‘Photography is the art, application, and practice of creating durable images by recording light, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or by means of a light-sensitive photographic film’.

Photography is all about your camera or smartphone capturing light - and light and colour are inextricably linked together. A bright summers day gives the amateur

photographer greater light, shadow and colour options to play with whereas a dull day with poor light can be the time for moody atmospheric black and white photographs.

Photographers use light to direct the eye of the viewer to the chosen subject area as bright areas attract attention while our eyes and brain tend to ignore darker areas.

Another technique to help attract the viewer’s attention is the use of warm colours such as red, orange, yellow and magenta.

Hopefully we’ll have a few more sunny days before autumn arrives but the harsh midday sunlight in summer can bring challenges for amateur photographers as it creates very strong shadows.

Tips: To avoid your subject being lost in the shadows – try placing the sun behind you so your subject is evenly lit. If the sun is very strong then place your subject in any shade that’s handy as you don’t want to photograph them squinting. A creative use of the sun can be to place it behind your subject and to photograph it side on to capture both the subject and the shadows created.

And a final tip is to avoid standing too close to your subject, with the sun behind you, as you’ll want to avoid capturing your own shadow by mistake!

Experiment with how light affects your subjects at different times of the day and evening, and most of all ~ have fun with your camera knowing that you’re ‘writing with light’.

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

Northumberland Line Update

STATION GUIDES

Ashington

The line is still on track to be up and running by December 2023. It is a priority of both Northumberland County Council, and is supported by a number of key project partners, including the Department for Transport (DfT), Network Rail, Transport for the North (TfN), Nexus and Northern Trains Limited, North Tyneside Council, North of Tyne Combined Authority and Newcastle City Council.

One of the project’s priorities is to enable people to travel quickly between Ashington and Newcastle, helping encourage them to switch from car to rail. With this in mind, the number of stations and their locations have been chosen to carefully balance passenger demand and journey times. However, the project does not prevent the future development of additional stations at other locations and extensions to the line.

The Northumberland Line aims to stimulate and support economic growth, regeneration and community development in Northumberland and the surrounding regions by providing new and improved transport links for local people and businesses.

The project will provide six new stations, at Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth Bebside, Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park, with journeys between Ashington and Newcastle taking about 35 minutes and no need to change trains. Options for integrated ticketing between the train and metro services are also being explored.

The freight trains that currently use the railway will still be able to do so, helping support the economic aspirations of both Lynemouth Power Station and the Port of Blyth.

Ashington station will be the northernmost station on the Northumberland Line. The track layout at the station has been carefully designed so that the route can be extended further north in the future to locations such as Newbiggin and Wood horn, though any such extension would be part of a separate scheme. Ashington station will have a single platform on the west side of the line, located on part of the existing car park. The existing car park will be extended and will include Blue Badge spaces and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging bays. Pedestrian and vehicle access into the car park will be from Kenilworth Road and will be designed to maintain delivery access to Wansbeck Square shopping centre and access to the rear of Station Road properties. The station and car park will include tree planting, and wildlife friendly landscaping focused on the areas around the extended car park.

Bedlington

Bedlington station will be the first stop for trains leaving Ashington and will have two platforms, one for services to Ashington and one for services to Newcastle. In order to meet the predicted demand for passenger services, some additional parking will be needed at the station, including Blue Badge spaces and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging bays. The station and car park will include

The Northumberland Line will bring passenger trains back into service between Ashington and Newcastle.

Northumberlandline.uk

tree planting and wildlife friendly landscaping. Some minor works are required to both the level crossings close to the station. In particu lar, the road will be re-prioritised at Bedlington South level crossing, creating a through route from Station Road to Palace Road/Street into St Johns Road. People will use this level crossing to interchange between the two station platforms. New boundary fencing will be installed to keep the station secure, and to provide screening for residential properties and businesses where necessary. No works are proposed to the signal box at the station, the project team are working with Network Rail regards the future of the station buildings.

Blyth Bebside

Blyth Bebside station will be the second stop for trains leaving Ash ington and will have two platforms, one for services to Ashington and one for services to Newcastle. It will have all the facilities described on page 13 of this booklet. The proposed station site is south of residential properties on Heather Lea, and is a former colliery tip that has already been partially reclaimed. The station location has moved further south since our previous consultation to lessen impacts on the highway network, namely the existing grade separated junction between the A189 and the A193. The current proposed location has better access from the main road and is further away from the high voltage overhead power lines. Pedestrian and vehicle access to the station will be along a widened and upgraded Errington Street from Front Street, where a new widened junction will be constructed. A station footbridge will provide access between the platforms. It will have stairs and lifts on both sides. A new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the A189 will also be provided.

Newsham

Newsham station will be the third stop for trains leaving Ashington and will have two platforms, one for services to Ashington and one for services to Newcastle. There will be a footbridge with lifts to allow passengers to transfer between platforms. The footbridge at this sta tion will be similar to the one provided at Blyth Bebside. A new road

bridge over the railway will be provided resulting in the closure of the Newsham level crossing. This has the benefit of improve ments to public safety, better traffic flows along the A1061 and a better and more robust signal ling solution.

Seaton Delaval

Seaton Delaval station will be the fourth stop for trains leaving Ashington. It will have a single platform located to the south east of the existing railway line and the A192 bridge. A new road will be constructed from the A192 adjacent to the existing car park entrance of The Hastings Arms to provide access into the station. This road will be a primary pe destrian and cycle access route to the station, with new lighting installed to improve safety. The station will be connected with the existing public open space and footpath network in Whytrigg Close and Wheatridge.

Northumberland Park

Northumberland Park station will be the fifth stop for trains leaving Ashington. It will have a single platform, allowing passengers to interchange with existing Tyne and Wear Metro services from the adjacent Metro station. Access to the platform will be by stairs and lift from Algernon Drive, where a separate scheme promoted by North Tyneside Council is looking at highway improvements and additional cycle storage. Given the existing provision within the Northumber land Park multi-storey car park, no additional car or bike parking will be created at this station. The existing car parking nearby is anticipated to be sufficient for passenger demand.

For more information visit www.northumberlandline.uk

Performance, Beauty & Innovation with Jaguar Eye Wear

Jaguar design is a sensory experience that simply takes your breath away. Synonymous with the creation of luxury vehicles since 1922, the brands premium sports cars boast exceptional performance with a passion that sets your pulse racing. At Concept, our coastal practice is proud to showcase the latest Jaguar eyewear collection for modern, sporty prescription frames and sunglasses.

You will find the same sophisticated details with each frame as you would find inside the car itself. Comfort notwithstanding. The combination of lightness and ideal fit are of paramount importance for every Jaguar frame. Using materials such as Ultem, which makes the frames flexible, dimensionally stable and up to 45% lighter than conventional acetate glasses.

Each collection has it’s own narrative. The ‘Spirit’ line underscores the Jaguar sporty lifestyle. The ‘Heritage’ line pays homage to legendary vehicles combining vintage nostalgia with start-of-the-art technology, and if you’re looking for subtle

elegance, the ‘Classic’ models blend quality craftsmanship with an enduring connection to the Jaguar brand. The ‘Heritage’ segment offers all this and more. Pure titanium or gold plating is unashamedly exclusive to men looking for the ultimate pair of glasses.

We believe in advanced diagnostics

At Concept it’s always the story behind the frame we find alluring. We’re discerning about our brands and always choose with our customers in mind. Aligned with the superior technology of Jaguar, we believe in advanced diagnostics with our eye examination. Concept is an independent leader in vision correction, clinical screening and the management of early anterior and posterior eye conditions before it’s too late.

Our eye care programmes are designed for your lifestyle. For us they are underpinned by vision and security for the health of your eyes. But that’s not all….

Our care programmes provide incredible benefits with choice on designer/ luxury frames, sunglasses and lens technology for spectacle and contact lens wearers. Each programme is bespoke to your needs, offering an intelligent, interest-free payment scheme to help you enjoy premier eye care and beautiful eye wear and lenses as often as you like.

We provide you with the attention that your health deserves. With lifelong care, at Concept, eye care has never been more clinically excellent, stylish and affordable We’ve got you covered.

With the Concept Complete Care Plan

Enjoy advanced diagnostic vision care for a small monthly premium of £7.99 and get 10% off complete glasses. Call 0191 296 6124

Perfect Parkin

Parkin is a traditional ginger cake from Yorkshire, flavoured with syrupy molasses, oatmeal and warm spices. Bake it for Bonfire Night or an afternoon tea treat.

Serves: 12

Cooking time: 30 mins

Preparation time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 225g Plain flour

• 2 level tsps Ground ginger

• 1 level tsp Bicarbonate of Soda

• Half level tsp salt

• 225g Medium oatmeal

• 115g Black treacle

• 115g Golden syrup

• 115g Soft light-brown sugar

• 115g Unsalted butter

• 150ml Milk

• 1 Egg - beaten

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 180C / Gas mark 4.

2. Grease and line a 30 x 25 x 5 cm (12 x 10 x 2 inch) roasting tin with grease-proof paper.

3. Place the treacle, golden syrup, sugar and butter into a heavy-bottomed saucepan and heat gently until the butter has melted.

4. Remove from the heat. Allow to cool a little then beat in the milk and the egg.

5. Sift the flour, ginger, bicarbonate of soda and salt into a large mixing bowl. Stir in

the oatmeal and make a well in the centre.

6. Pour the liquid mixture into the well and beat thoroughly.

7. Pour into the roasting tin and bake in the centre of the oven until firm and springy.

8. Leave to cool in the tin.

9. When cold, wrap in greaseproof paper and leave for a couple of days in an airtight tin, because the flavour of Parkin improves with keeping.

Be generous with the ginger in this recipe as it really gives the cake a wonderful warming flavour.

Keep for up to five days before eating if you can – it’ll become softer and stickier the longer you leave it, up to two weeks.

TOP TIPS

Fancy a Festive Getaway?

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

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 a Christmas shopping trip, some Turkey and Tinsel or go the whole hog and book a trip away for New Year’s Eve? The advert on the opposite page shows you what’s on offer, with more to follow!

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 the 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!

United Group Travel Ltd Tel: 01670 632460 / 07957 141654

www.unitedgrouptravel.com

Facebook: United Group Travel Ltd E mail: graham.john.unitedgrouptravel@gmail.com

The Winnock, Loch Lomond

Blackburn

Little Learners (N.E) Childcare

Grow Together

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

Barnstaple Road, North Shields NE29 8QD ( 0191 289 4047 or 07305 642

7.30 am - 5.30

around our nurseries in

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

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

Feeling Fruity

By Rachael Leverton

Autumn is well advanced, and following some brilliant colour, the trees and shrubs have shed most of their leaves. Many of us will have been busy tidying our plots in preparation for winter. However, if you’ve ever fancied growing your own fruit, then now is the perfect time to put in a little extra effort.

From now until spring is the best window to plant fruit trees because now is the time that nurseries are selling bare-root trees. ‘Bare-root’ simply means without pots or soil. Bare root trees are cheaper than those grown in pots, but they are quick to establish providing you follow a few simple steps.

Before you plant the tree, soak the roots in a bucket of water for at least two hours so it gets a good drink.

Prepare a large enough area, at least 1 metre in diameter. This means that if you are planting in a lawn, you’ll need to remove an area of turf to the same diameter to stop the grass competing with the new tree for nutrients and water. Wherever you plant, make sure you dig in lots of organic matter, this could be garden compost, leaf mould, or well-rotted manure. Make sure you dig it all around the area where the hole will be, rather than just into the hole itself, because this will encourage the new tree to put roots out into the surrounding soil, helping it to establish quickly.

The hole for the new tree needs to be roomy enough so that the roots will not be crammed together.

Drive a stake into the ground to a depth of at least 60cm. This will provide support for your fledgling tree.

If you are planting a grafted tree, there will be a clear join where it was grafted onto the rootstock This join should remain above the soil level when planted. It’s easier if there are two of you; one to hold the tree at the correct level and one to backfill the hole around the roots. The person holding the tree should shake the trunk gently as the hole is filled so that soil gets in between all the roots.

Once you’ve filled the hole, firm the soil gently with your foot. Don’t compact the soil too much. Then drag more soil over the compressed area.

Use a soft rubber tie to secure the tree to the stake at a height of 60cm. Too low and the tree won’t be secure; too high and the tree won’t flex enough in the wind. Allowing the tree to flex a little encourages more root growth and results in a stronger tree.

AUTUMN GARDENING ESSENTIALS

3.

1. Tree Ties £5.98, Toolstation

2. Tree Stakes, £2.69, Toolstation

3. Soft Touch Winter Gardening Gloves, £29.99

4. Peat Free Compost, £5.99, Dobbies

5. Ferrex 2-In-1 Electric Scarifier, £79.99, aldi.co.uk

Finally, water in well and apply a 5cm layer of organic mulch over the area but NOT touching the trunk because it might rot. The mulch helps to suppress weeds, provide insulation, and retain moisture.

Your tree should now be fine until spring. Happy gardening.

Photo by Kristina Paukshtite

Local Libraries Offer A Warm Welcome

North Tyneside libraries have opened their doors as part of a network of almost a hundred Warm Welcome sessions launching across North Tyneside.

Running six days a week at the borough’s Customer First Centres and libraries, the local authority is opening their doors to all local residents who would like to use the facilities as a safe and warm place this winter.

Hot drinks, wi-fi, computer access, baby-friendly facilities, film and book clubs and board games are just some of the free things on offer

The Warm Welcome venues, which became available from 1 November, form part of the council’s wider support to help people with the rising cost of living.

Cllr Sandra Graham, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “Our libraries and Customer First Centres are already much-valued facilities, so we’re pleased to be able to extend what’s already on offer.

“I would really encourage anyone who would like to use the spaces to come along – you can enjoy a chat and a free cuppa, find out about other support available from our friendly staff, join in with an activity or use the facilities as you wish.

“They are available to everyone – whether you’re working or not, retired or studying, everybody is very welcome to use and enjoy our facilities. Find out more on our website or pop into your local library for details.

“The rising cost of living is affecting many of us and the warm welcome you will receive in libraries is just one part of the package of support we are working on to help our residents.”

The local authority also offered a grant of up to £1,000 to community and voluntary sector organisations to help them cover the cost of running similar schemes. Those taking part will be encouraged to display a ‘warm welcome’ sticker in their venue and they are listed on the council’s website. There are almost one hundred sessions each week at the council and community venues.

For more information, pop into your local library or Customer First Centre, or call 0345 2000 101.

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.

What’s for Dinner Tonight?

With a HelloFresh recipe box delivered to your door, you can answer the question in a fresh and delicious way, and now you can get 50% off your first box with the code HFABC50.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or looking to add some basics to your repertoire, HelloFresh is on hand to help. They deliver fresh, seasonal ingredients and recipe cards to your door, which means you can make tasty meals without meal planning or visiting the supermarket.

With more and more of us pushed for time, trying to make space in our week for regular trips to the supermarket to search for a host of individual ingredients could be difficult. Even if we do have time, putting a menu together can prove time consuming and, as we have all experienced, the supermarket may not have everything we need.

With 37 weekly recipes, there’s something for all taste buds and the opportunity to cook gourmet meals at home. You could go for a Rapid dinner ready in under 20 minutes, a Family Favourite, Veggie, or pick a Calorie Smart dish under 600 calories. Meals start from just £3.25 per person.

The ingredients you receive are pre-portioned, so there’s minimal food waste and a flexible subscription that you can control, which can be paused or cancelled at any time.

Your delivery will arrive in eco-friendly packaging, and you don’t have to worry if you’re not home as the team will leave your box in a specified safe place, and everything is packed with several ice

packs, which keeps the ingredients chilled.

HelloFresh was founded in 2011 and are proud to be an eco-friendly, carbon-neutral company. They’re also the first global recipe box company to be Red Tractor Assured, meaning their beef, chicken, turkey, duck and park meat are all sourced from farms that meet rigorous standards.

Reasons to try HelloFresh

• Time Saver: They deliver everything you need to create delicious dinners from scratch so you spend less time shopping!

• Value for Money: They work closely with trusted suppliers to source fresh, high-quality ingredients for your recipe box.

• Cutting Food Waste: By giving you the exact amount of ingredients you need, you cut food waste.

So if you fancy a delicious recipe box delivered to your door, getting set up is easy:

1. Visit www.bit.ly/hellofreshabc or scan the above QR code with your smartphone camera.

2. Fill out a simple questionnaire about which of its dozens of recipes you’d like.

3. Use the exclusive code HFABC50 at the checkout for 50% off your first box and 35% off your next three boxes.

SCAN ME

North Tyneside ShipbuilderHonoured

A naval architect who blazed a trail for women in the shipbuilding industry has been honoured with a blue plaque at her family home in Tynemouth.

Susan Mary Auld (10 January 1915 – 9 March 2002) was born Susan Denham Christie into a family of naval engineers.

She was home-schooled until the age of 14 and later followed in her family’s footsteps by becoming the first woman to be awarded a degree in naval architecture from Durham University in 1936.

Her grandfather founded the company that would become Swan Hunter and she joined the design office of what was then Swan Hunter & Wigham Richardson at the Neptune yard, Wallsend, at a time when very few women were employed in shipbuilding.

During the Second World War she was a member of the team that designed the battleship HMS Anson, launched in 1940, and the aircraft carrier HMS Albion. She also worked on the design of vessels used to land Allied troops at Normandy in June 1944

In 1942 she was referred to as ‘the only woman ship designer in the country’ in the pages of The Woman Engineer, the journal of the Women's Engineering Society.

On Trafalgar Day, Friday 21 October at 1.30pm, North Tyneside Council and heritage charity The Common Room unveiled a blue plaque to honour her life and achievements at 12 Northumberland Terrace in Tynemouth.

The plaque was unveiled by North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn CBE and the Chair of North Tyneside Council, Councillor Pat Oliver, alongside representatives from HMS Calliope following an earlier engagement at the Trafalgar Day ‘Toast the Admiral’ event in Tynemouth.

North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn CBE, said: “It’s very fitting that we can bring people together on Trafalgar Day to celebrate Susan’s life and achievements. Her ideas and designs brought about important advances in shipbuilding technology that helped turn the tide of the Second World War.

“At a time when it was considered bad luck for a woman to even set foot on a ship that was under construction, she helped to pave the way for other women to forge careers in both the shipbuilding

industry and the military.

“The blue plaque is a token of how much she means to us in North Tyneside and a reminder to future generations of an extraordinary woman whose work broke down barriers and inspired others to follow in her footsteps.”

The Common Room is a charity formed to lead the restoration of Neville Hall in Newcastle, whose vision is to use the region’s unique heritage to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers. On behalf of Newcastle University, The Common Room is helping to place five blue plaques in the next year to honour women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who have not yet had their astonishing local contributions recognised with a plaque.

Joshua Ansell, Programme Team, The Common Room, said: “Women like Susan Mary Auld have fought just to be able to stand as part of a group that was previously occupied wholly by men. They have had to prove themselves to be given permission just to be there. History often forgets them, because their name isn’t recorded as the head of a team, but they have often done far more than those leaders just to be included. We are proud to be part of the effort to celebrate and remember great women like this as they are given the recognition they have always deserved.”

Image: North Tyneside Council

How Can We Help You and Your Family?

by Jacqueline Emmerson of Emmersons Solicitors

I am on a mission at the moment to find those folks who are falling through the cracks in society.

Pre covid was bad enough but being isolated and unable to seek help is far worse now. As regular readers will know, I spend a lot of time assisting older clients who simply have no one to support or help them. You may not even know what help is available to you.

Such clients will typically have been only children who never married. Or who were divorced years ago and don’t have siblings or children. Some of my clients have long term mental health problems such as schizophrenia, they can function on a day to day basis but cannot manage all of their affairs.

I am also particularly concerned about older members of the gay community. Especially those who were in the forces and had to spend their working lives hiding the fact that they were gay. This may mean that they were unable to marry, they may have avoided the gay community who would ordinarily have provided some support. I have been trying to highlight the plight of this group of people to various organisations including SSAFA.

I have also noticed that in traditional religious families individuals have spent their lives hiding the fact that they are gay so as not to upset their parents or their religious community. Again they may remain unmarried and without children to help them as they get older.

Over the next few months Emmersons Solicitors will be holding free events to inform and offer help. In the meantime if you need help please don’t hesitate to contact me.

What Type of Help?

There are many things that we attend to on behalf of those who are struggling to manage their affairs. If we have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place then we can mange your money. In the first instance I would make sure that your home is insured. Many clients let this lapse without realising. I would check standing orders and direct debits to make sure that you are only paying out money when you need to do so. I regularly find that huge sums of money are being paid out to charities as one charity after another contacts the vulnerable to seek help. That is fine so long as you can afford to make such payments. And if you are paying to charities do you know how many you send money to and how much per month?

You may be struggling to cope with shopping, cleaning, washing and ironing etc. You may feel that you can’t afford help. But if your finances were under control this may free up money so that you could pay someone to assist you. You may be entitled to state benefits such as Attendance Allowance. This can be

worth circa £4,000 per year. Again, this money could be used to pay for someone to come in and support you even a couple of times a week. And it doesn’t have to be fifteen minutes here and there. There are many private agencies, who are often cheaper than social services, who can offer you a minimum of an hour per visit.

Did you know that there are agencies who will take you out for the day. Do you fancy a trip to the Northumberland Coast or Durham City. Do you want someone to take you to and from your cricket club, or to watch the football? Do you want someone to make meals for you? The choice is yours.

We can also help to sort out your home. Has it all become a bit too much. Have you started to hoard things so that your home is feeling too cluttered? We have a team that will come in and work with us and you to turn things around. We can arrange for a one off deep clean, the removal of items you no longer need or want and weekly cleaning.

We can also get all of your paperwork under control. This might include finding old savings policies that you have forgotten about. We found one recently for a client that was worth over £40,000! We can organise your bank accounts into one place and bring in a financial advisor to ensure that your money is in the correct place for you.

What If You Need to go Into a Care Home?

This can be a huge decision and there will be a lot to think about. I have looked after the homes of clients for years who have not wanted to sell. It is your decision as to when or if you sell a home that may have been the place of years of happy family memories. I have dealt with council tax and council tax rebates. Water rates, which should not be paid when a house is empty. Gas and electricity, care home fees and spending money. Normal house insurance is not enough when a house is empty for more than thirty days. We deal with specialist insurers in order to protect our clients’ property.

To sum up, we can step in and be you. We do all the work so that you don’t have to worry about everything all of the time. If you feel that you are floundering and want a chat about how we can help then you can either email me at je@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk or ring the office on 0191 2846989 and leave your name and telephone number so that I can return your call.

And can I ask, have you noticed a lonely neighbour, have you popped round to see if they are coping? They might have been more in the swing of things before covid but if their day centre closed down or the club they were a member of stopped having meetings then they may have declined quite rapidly in the intervening period. Please look out for your neighbours and friends who live alone or who may be struggling to care for a relative.

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.

Help Reduce Energy Costs with Thermos Roof

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.

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

Password Protection

How to stay secure online

By Tom Hancock

Almost every week this year, one of my friends or acquaintances has been hacked. Cyberattacks have increased in 2022 and mostly revolve around password breaches because we still don't take our passwords seriously.

Almost 70% of people use one password over multiple websites and accounts. This means that if you experience a breach, all your accounts (including those you may have forgotten about) can be at risk.

If you think replacing some letters with numbers or adding extra characters will keep you safe, think again. Hackers use sophisticated software to quickly guess variations on a basic password.

The only way to increase security is to use random unique passwords for each account. This can seem intimidating, but password managers exist to create and protect your passwords.

Lots of people create a random unique password for their bank or work account and stick with a single password for accounts they deem lower risk. Unfortunately, to a hacker, even the basic information such as an email address or phone number is valuable data they can use to impersonate you. It's a bore but use random unique passwords for ALL accounts.

I have tried to persuade friends of mine to invest in password manager software (NOT a free download from the internet). A password manager will create unique, single-use passwords AND autofill them as long as they are tied to that account. This means that even if you accidentally click on a phishing link, the password manager should recognise that it's not the legitimate account and flag up a warning or refuse to autofill.

RoboForm, Dashlane and LastPass are three password managers (there are many others), and costs vary. Mine is an annual subscription and works across my phone, tablet, and laptop.

If you don't have a password manager (and you should have one...really...get one now), then create passwords that are hard to guess by choosing words that are personal to you but not personal information such as name or birth date. Think of song lyrics, or your primary teachers, or your favourite shade of nail polish! Three unconnected words with some numbers and symbols are a good start. Passwords should be at least 12 characters long. And don't be tempted by Facebook and Twitter 'fill in the blank quizzes' of the 'My first car was a...' or 'My first pet was named...' variety. They are generally exercises in data mining.

We've all been asked to sign up for multi-factor authentication systems for bank accounts, PayPal, eBay etc. There is usually an opt-out button but don't. Even the most complex passwords can be compromised. A multi-factor authentication creates an extra layer of protection between you and a potential hacker by requiring verification in excess of your password when you log in.

Generally, this involves a one-time password sent to you via SMS or email. It’s an extra step but one worth having, so turn it on whenever it's offered.

It's tempting to think that you won’t be hacked, but every time you use the internet, you are a potential target. Stay Safe!

Useful Websites

What’s On At Seaton Delaval Arts Centre

The Seaton Delaval Arts Centre is a modern facility for the enjoyment of the ‘Arts’ in the local environment. The 162 seater community theatre opened in 2007 after months of hard work and dedication, with the building being redeveloped from an old Salvation Army hall into a high standard multi use community space.

As a registered charity and not for profit organisation, the venue is ran entirely by volunteers providing a well maintained building not only for the arts, but for the whole community to enjoy.

The Centre has an ever growing theatre programme in place with a range of professional and amateur shows taking place including live music, comedy, pantomime, musicals and drama, allowing members of the community to see a real mix of shows and performances on their door step with great value for money. Our auditorium can hold up to 162 people with a permanent stage in place, professional lighting and sound rig and tiered seating.

Here is a glimpse of some of the upcoming events.

THE STRAITS UK – TRIBUTE TO THE DIRE STRAITS

Saturday 19th November At 7:30pm

Founded in 2018, The Straits UK are made up of five musicians all with a passion for delivering quality music and performance every time. Residing in Newcastle, the idea to form a tribute

to Dire Straits originated with the front-man and drummer, who happen to be father and son. They have both been lifelong Dire Straits fans, meaning attention to detail is second to none.

Performing all the hits from The Dire Straits back catalogue, with authenticity that has been likened to ‘listening to the real thing’ by many. Come with us to experience and relive the unmistakable guitar and keyboard sounds of the Alchemy, Wembley ’85, On Every Street tours and much more! In fact, close your eyes and you’d be forgiven for thinking it was Knopfler himself playing. A must for all Dire Straits fans!

ALADDIN – 50TH ANNIVERSARY PANTOMIME!

Presented by Seaton Delaval Pantomime Society

Friday 2nd To Saturday 10th December 2022 | Evenings At 7pm – Matinees At 1pm

An evil magician has discovered the secret to becoming Master of the Universe. All he needs is an enchanted oil lamp hidden away for many years in a lost cave but only the ‘chosen one’ is allowed to set foot inside. Meanwhile, Aladdin dreams of marrying the beautiful Princess Jasmine but a penniless laundry boy could never hope to have the love of a royal. Could he be the chosen one?

Join us on a flying carpet adventure as we celebrate 50 years of Seaton Delaval Pantomime Society! Aladdin, Window Twankey, Wishee Washee and the gang are back in a hilarious show for the whole family, packed full of all of the usual show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines

and hilarious knockabout comedy with bags of audience participation and fun.

A MUSICAL CHRISTMAS

Saturday 17th December At 7:30pm It’s the most wonderful time of the year! So join us for an evening of festive hits and musical theatre classics. Following on from their hit concerts ‘From Hammerstien to Hamilton’ and ‘Twist and Shout’, locally based CS Productions are back for one night only with a new festive musical cabaret! Featuring fabulous vocals from talented musical theatre performers plus live accompaniment, this is not one to be missed. The perfect way to get into the festive spirit!

NE STREET BAND – THE SONGS OF BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN

Saturday 18th March 2023 At 7.30pm

The NE Street Band plays the songs of the legendary Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band. Based in the North East of England, they continue to get rave reviews from their live shows and are playing to increasingly growing audiences across the country. Expect a fun filled 2 hour show packed full of all things Bruce & E Street, covering

all the classic songs and fan favourites, including some from the Seeger sessions. A must see band for any Springsteen fan.

ACOUSTIC MCCARTNEY AND STING

Saturday 1st April 2023 At 7.30pm

Regarded as two of the finest songwriters of all time, this show features acoustic covers of all the best hits from Sir Paul McCartney and Sting performed by Edinburgh Festival Fringe award winner Gus Boyd. With one voice and one guitar, the first half will feature all of McCartney’s catalogue from The Beatles, Wings and his solo tunes including Yesterday, Here there and everywhere, Fool on the hill, The long and winding road, Drive my car, Let it be, Hey Jude and many more. In the second act we’ll visit all of the songs by local lad Sting including his solo songs and The Police. With a similar vocal timbre and range, Gus delivers with passion and power; songs such as Roxanne, Fields of Gold, Message in a Bottle, Every Breath You Take, Walking on the Moon and Englishman in New York.

All ticket and event information can be found by visiting www.seatondelavalartscentre.com

French Classes WITH LINGUA FORME

My fabulous French lessons are available to anyone. From scratch with beginners, encouraging improvers or polishing up advanced learners, my approach to French and learning remains the same – passionate and fun.

BOOK NOW FOR THE FOLLOWING CLASSES:

Mondays at Morpeth 10.15-11.45 am Intermediate 12.25-1.55 pm Improvers/Intermediate Tuesdays at Whitley Bay 6.30-8.00 pm Beginners

Wednesdays 10.00-11.30 am Improvers at Seaton Sluice 1-2.30pm Intermediate at Whitley Bay 6.30-8.00 pm Improvers/Intermedate at Seaton Sluice Thursdays at Morpeth 10.15-11.45 am Higher Beginners 1.00-2.30pm Advanced

Visit www.linguaforme.co.uk or call Barbara on 07946 115 256

One to One tuition available for Adults, GCSEand A Level

Quality, Affordable, Garage Doors

Looking for a new garage door? AI Garage Doors have got just the right solution for you.

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

Maximise Your Income

Switch your bank account (15 mins)

Did you know that banks will give you money simply for switching your account? At the time of writing this, you can get up to £200 for switching.

The Current Account Switching Service means you can switch hassle-free in just 7 working days, and all of you direct debits and payments will be automatically transferred over.

Martin Lewis at Money Saving Expert keeps an upto-date list of all the current switching offers. Head to www.moneysavingexpert.com.

Check your savings rate (10 mins)

This year is Age UK North Tyneside’s 50th birthday. However, with the current cost-of-living crisis, we understand that not everyone is in the mood to celebrate.

We want to make sure you’re getting all of the support available to you. Here are some ways you can maximise your income in just 50 minutes.

Check your benefit entitlement (10 mins)

You may be entitled to additional financial support. If you’re not claiming it, you’re throwing away free money!

Our free and confidential Information & Advice service can help you check what you’re entitled to and what you’re missing out on.

Call us today on 0191 280 8484 or head to www. ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside.

Get a smart meter (10 mins)

Smart meters can help you save money on your energy bills by showing you where you’re using unnecessary energy. Get in touch with your energy supplier to have one installed. There’s no extra charge, and most suppliers will allow you to request a smart meter online via your energy account.

Interest rates have been soaring lately. While this is bad news for anyone wanting to borrow money, it’s great news for savers.

If you’re lucky enough to have some savings tucked away, check your interest rate. If you’re earning anything less than 2%, it’s time to switch.

Once again, we’d recommend heading over to Money Saving Expert for a full list of the top savings accounts (www.moneysavingexpert.com).

Get a water saving kit (5 mins)

While water bills aren’t increasing at the same rate as energy bills, they can still eat up a sizeable portion of your income. Especially if you have a water meter.

Northumbrian Water offer free water saving kits that you can order to help cut down your usage and reduce your bill. Head to nwl.watersavingkit.com.

For additional help and support, our team are here for you Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 4.30pm. Call us on 0191 280 8484 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside.

Signature Kitchens, Bathrooms & Tiles have been providing customers with quality kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, flooring and tiles for over ten years.

Offering a unique combination of superb products, expertise and unmatched customer service, we bring you the home of your dreams, whilst making the transformation a painless process.

For every project, we have an experienced team and a generation of experience; this successful formula shows in the results.

NEWCASTLE IN ALL ITS GLORY

New Book offers a stunning collection of images which capture the essence of the city.

Newcastle has been a major city in the North East of England since the Middle Ages. The stone castle, from which it derives its name, still stands and the city first became prosperous because of its coal trade, later developing as a centre for shipbuilding and other heavy engineering.

Newcastle has retained much of its 18th and 19th century fabric while developing itself as a modern city in recent decades. Heavy industry has declined but the city has regenerated many areas as well as building exciting new developments, attracting many to this thriving city.

For those who are proud to live in Newcastle, as well as those visiting, Newcastle in Photographs is a must. Look through these photographs and you will quickly see why this city in the North East has such enduring appeal.

Author Simon Mccabe is a photographer based in

the North East specialising in landscape, nature and wildlife.

This beautifully captured insight around Newcastle contains approximately 126 stunning images and is the perfect souvenir for tourists and gift for residents.

Newcastle in Photographs will be available from 15th November from www.amberley-books.com and all good bookshops. To buy this book online while supporting your local independent bookshop, visit: uk.bookshop.org/shop/abcmagazines

As you get the

in

A GOOD READ

THE INK BLACK HEART

by Robert Galbraith

When frantic, dishevelled Edie Ledwell appears in the office begging to speak to her, private detective, Robin Ellacott doesn’t know quite what to make of the situation. The co-creator of a popular cartoon, The Ink Black Heart, Edie is being persecuted by a mysterious online figure who goes by the pseudonym of Anomie. Edie is desperate to uncover Anomie’s true identity.

Robin decides that the agency can’t help with thisand thinks nothing more of it until a few days later, when she reads the shocking news that Edie has been tasered and then murdered in Highgate Cemetery, the location of The Ink Black Heart.

Robin and her business partner Cormoran Strike become drawn into the quest to uncover Anomie’s true identity. But with a complex web of online aliases, business interests and family conflicts to navigate, Strike and Robin find themselves embroiled in a case that stretches their powers of deduction to the limitsand which threatens them in new and horrifying ways.

A gripping, fiendishly clever mystery.

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover

Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town in Maine where she grew up - she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. So when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life suddenly seems almost too good to be true.

Ryle is assertive, stubborn, maybe even a little arrogant. He’s also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily, but Ryle’s complete aversion to relationships is disturbing. Even as Lily finds herself becoming the exception to his “no dating” rule, she can’t help but wonder what made him that way in the first place.

As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan - her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears,

everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.

With this bold and deeply personal novel, It Ends With Us is a heart-wrenching story and an unforgettable tale of love that comes at the ultimate price.

ACT OF OBLIVION

by Robert Harris

1660. Colonel Edward Whalley and his son-in-law, Colonel William Goffe, cross the Atlantic. They are on the run and wanted for the murder of Charles I. Under the provisions of the Act of Oblivion, they have been found guilty in absentia of high treason.

In London, Richard Nayler, secretary of the regicide committee of the Privy Council, is tasked with tracking down the fugitives. He’ll stop at nothing until the two men are brought to justice. A reward hangs over their heads - for their capture, dead or alive.

Act of Oblivion is an epic journey across continents, and a chase like no other. It is the thrilling new novel by Robert Harris.

WHY HAS NOBODY TOLD ME THIS BEFORE?

by Dr Julie Smith

Drawing on years of experience as a clinical psychologist, online sensation Dr Julie Smith shares all the skills you need to get through life’s ups and downs.

Filled with secrets from a therapist’s toolkit, this is a musthave handbook for optimising your mental health. Dr Julie’s simple but expert advice and powerful coping techniques will help you stay resilient no matter what life throws your way.

Written in short, bite-sized entries, you can turn straight to the section you need depending on the challenge you’re facing - and immediately find the appropriate tools to help with managing anxiety, dealing with criticism, battling low mood, building self-confidence, finding motivation, learning to forgive yourself.

This book tackles the everyday issues that affect us all and offers easy, practical solutions that might just change your life.

To buy these books online while supporting your local independent bookshop, visit: uk.bookshop.org/shop/abcmagazines