ABC WEST: April - May 2018

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08 - 2018

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NEWS FROM WALLSEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WALLSEND CHAMBER WILL OFFICIALLY LAUNCH ON FRIDAY 8TH JUNE

Representatives from over 30 local businesses have been meeting for a number of months to establish the Wallsend Chamber. Members include businesses, education and voluntary groups. The Chamber will work to help to enable employability, educational attainment and wellbeing for the community, and to help to improve and secure the commercial and social interests of the town of Wallsend and its immediate neighbourhood.

The group have established a terms of reference and objectives, have requested the status of a CIC and have started the process of working on a brand and marketing message for the Wallsend Chamber.

The Chamber will officially launch with an open day for businesses, voluntary groups and schools to find out more about activities in their local area, on Friday 8th June, 10am-12noon at Segedunum Roman Fort.

David Bavaird, Chair of the North Tyneside Business Forum commented “I am delighted that the business community in Wallsend have made such quick progress as an active Chamber will do much to help to encourage investment and employment in the town and the North Tyneside Business Forum look forward to attending the launch event and working with the Chamber in the future’.

Businesses which are interested in becoming members can request an application form from North Tyneside Business Forum by calling 0191 643 6000 or email business.forum@northtyneside.gov.uk. The group have agreed that there will be no charge for members until the Association is fully formed.

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WALLSEND FESTIVAL TO RETURN THIS SUMMER FOR TWO DAYS OF FUN

The Wallsend Chamber are delighted to support the popular Wallsend Festival which returns this year, taking place over two days with lots happening across the weekend. Now in its 18th year, the festival will take place in Wallsend town centre on Saturday 30 June and at Wallsend Green and Richardson Dees Park on Sunday 1 July.

Saturday’s events will feature live music, fairground rides, a classic car display, a range of stalls selling craft, gifts and food produce, and more. The Customer First Centre will also host a range of activities throughout the day, and Wallsend History Society will return with a popular display on Wallsend’s past.

On Sunday, the free entertainment will continue at Wallsend Hall and Richardson Dees Park. Wallsend Hall and Green will have fairground rides, live music and a selection of craft stalls. Street food stalls and refreshments from Wallsend Hall will also be available, while street entertainers will keep children entertained.

Richardson Dees Park will offer a full day of fun outdoor activities including; skateboard demos from Dynamics, a roaming bubbleologist, interactive circus skills and more. The festival will take place between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and between 10am and 6pm on Sunday.

‘Kevin Stephenson, Wallsend Chamber, said: ‘We’re delighted to see the festival return and hope families and visitors enjoy their weekend. The event helps to showcase the town and its many recent positive developments.’

LOCAL NEWS

THE FORUM IS BUZZING WALLSEND TO HOST MAJOR COMMEMORATIVE EVENTS

The Chamber are delighted that the Northumbria World War One Commemoration Project have decided to hold a week of events in Wallsend to mark one hundred years since the end of World War One.The Northumbria World War One Commemoration project has been researching the nearly 4000 casualties of the Great War connected to the modern Borough of North Tyneside for almost eight years. www. northumbriaworldwarone.co.uk Amongst those who made the ultimate sacrifice are more than 1000 men and women from the former Borough of Wallsend.

As the four years of the centenary period of the war is coming to an end the project will mark the signing of the Armistice of 11th November 1918 with a week-long programme of events from Monday 5th to Sunday 11th November 2018.

When considering where to stage the exhibition and displays of the project’s work, including videos and seven exhibitions of their research that have been produced over the period 2012 to 2018 it was obvious that the Wallsend Memorial Hall would be the first choice.

Project Co-ordinator Alan Fidler said: ‘The Memorial Hall and the outside plaque and bronze statues in Frank Street are the Swan Hunter Shipbuilders Ltd. memorial to the men of the company who served and died in the Great War. Over the intervening years ‘The Mem’ has played a focal part in the life of Wallsend so we were delighted that they are able to provide the space and facilities to allow us to mark the end of the war and its consequences for the community.’

Full details of the programme will be published on their website www.northumbriaworldwarone.co.uk as the centenary week approaches.

The Forum Centre in partnership with greenfingered pupils from Richardson Dees Primary School in Wallsend, created a fabulous roof top garden last year. From sowing seeds to pulling out weeds, the children, aged between 8 and 10 years old, were given a space on the Centre’s roof to cultivate and take ownership of. In the small space of a couple of months, the garden developed into a little oasis, thanks to the commitment and enthusiasm of the pupils taking part. In addition to the beautiful flowering plants, the pupils grew a range of delicious fruit, vegetables and herbs, which when ripen were picked and taken home to create culinary delights such as soup and stir fry’s.

The roof top garden, returning in late spring, will again serve as a tool to engage local community groups, offering members the opportunity to broaden their understanding of flora and fauna in a relaxed and informal setting. Creating an additional buzz this year to the garden, will be the introduction of a new hive of honey bees, which will be located away from the public and maintained by an experienced local Bee keeper.

Since the 1900’s the bee population has significantly declined, this is in part due to the rise in chemical pesticides, with 13 species being declared extinct. Projects such as the Forum’s Centre’s bee hive will hopefully help to improve the local eco-system and play a role in increasing the number of honey bees in the area. Further details of the project will be highlighted on the Centre’s website www.theforumshoppingcentre.co.uk/community Nick Lambert, Centre Manager at The Forum Shopping Centre, adds: “Last year we transformed a previously unused space into garden with a seed to plate ethos, complete with a greenhouse and raise beds. This year it is our intention add a new dimension to the roof top garden by introducing a bee hive, which we hope will not only help the local environment, but will also produce some delicious honey for us to enjoy,”.

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‘STRIKING’ NEW EXHIBITIONS AT SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORT SEGEDUNUM HAS LONG HAD A REPUTATION FOR PRESENTING TOP-CLASS EXHIBITIONS HERE IN WALLSEND AND THE 2018 PROGRAMME PROMISES TO UPHOLD THAT STATUS.

T

he current exhibition Striking the Emperor showcases Roman coins found on the site, but also provides an experience that brings visitors face to face with a real rogues’ gallery of emperors. Roman soldiers were

well-paid and forts were a hive of commercial activity, with coins exchanged for goods and services in the surrounding settlement, and soldiers pay and savings kept locked and guarded in the underground strong room of the Headquarters Building of the fort. Of course, as today, some of those coins got dropped or discarded and lost, only to be found by archaeologists centuries later.

The exhibition uses large beautifully-lit images of the coins so that their detail can be clearly seen. Coins were a key medium for circulating the emperor’s public image and associated propaganda around the ancient world, and they present a fascinating story. Striking the Emperor runs until 13 May.

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Coins were a key medium for circulating the emperor’s public image and they present a fascinating story.

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The main summer exhibition will be Saving Face, presenting a glorious array of cheek pieces from Roman helmets. All lent by a private collector, and not seen publically together before, this is a unique and exciting opportunity. The displays will explore the evolution and range of styles, designs and symbolism, of this crucial functional element of the iconic Roman helmet. Geoff Woodward, Museum Manager said, ‘With many of the cheek pieces belonging to cavalry helmets it marks an excellent follow-up to last years’ hugely successful Hadrian’s Cavalry exhibition. Together with the wider museum offer it should attract a large audience to the World Heritage Site this year.’ Saving Face runs from 26 May to 21 September.

For more information about Segedunum go to www.segedunumromanfort.org.uk Segedunum Roman Fort , Buddle St, Wallsend, NE28 6HR

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DIPLOMA COURSE GIVING YOUNG PEOPLE THE CHANCE OF THE FISHING INDUSTRY JOBS

W

hitby Fishing School are offering young people age between 16 to 24 years an entry route into the fishing industry, with up to 40 places on offer each year on the Level 2 Diploma in Maritime Studies, competition is high!

The Diploma course serves as a great starting point for those hoping for a career in the fishing industry.

Five local lads all from the North Shields area are well underway with their maritime studies with Whitby Fishing School.

Terry McDermott, Whitby Fishing School Training Coordinator (North) said: “We are delighted to start the North Shields lads on the Sea Fishing Diploma programme. The fishing industry is hugely important to the North East coast, so it’s crucial that we can provide 12

the next generation of fishermen with the right skills, knowledge and practical experience to embark on a career at sea.”

This course is made up of a mixture of both academic and practical hands-on learning. Each trainee is allocated to a North Shields fishing vessel and whilst onboard they build up a wealth of practical skills by utilising all the theory they have learnt from the classroom phase. The vessel’s skipper then records the trainees’ progress as they become better skilled.

Whitby Fishing School is very appreciative to all the North Shields skippers for offering placements onboard their fishing boats. This really demonstrates a commitment from the local skippers who want to pass on their experience, skills and seagoing knowledge to the next generation.

Whitby Fishing School’s Director, Andrew Hodgson said: “These new entrants are an essential component of the fishing industry. We need to ensure that the fishing fleet can access the fresh young talent and skills needed

LEFT TO RIGHT – Connor Pooley, Terry McDermott (Whitby

Fishing School Training Coordinator), Thomas Lawlor, Mike Hawkins (Generation North East Business Advisor), MP Alan Campbell, Lorreen Butler (Generation North East Employment Advisor), Leon Neill, Andrew Hodgson (Whitby Fishing School Director), Stuart Downie, Shaun Skelton.

WE CLEAN YOUR OVEN... SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO to make it an effective sector. The fishing industry is hugely important to our coastal communities and demonstrates how local skippers are working with us in close partnership to ensure fishing continues to be a viable way of life for many generations to come.”

One of the students from North Shields went onto say: “I decided to enrol on this course because I thought it would be a great way of getting into the fishing industry and gain some recognised qualifications. I’ve already completed the mandatory Sea Fish Industry Authority courses with Whitby Fishing School which include; Sea Survival, Fire Fighting, First Aid and Health & Safety for New Entrants. Over the last few months Generation North East and Whitby Fishing School has given me the opportunity to gain not only maritime qualifications but also practical experience onboard a North Shields fishing boat. When I graduate at the end of the year, I will have a portfolio of 12 certificates and a logbook with over one thousand seagoing hours, I’m sure this will help with securing a permanent job on a local boat.”

“

Each trainee is allocated to a North Shields fishing vessel and whilst onboard they build up a wealth of practical skills.

Generation North East are working extremely hard to open up this opportunity to their clients which has had a positive knock on effect to a higher number of applications and enrolments to Whitby Fishing School.

Terry McDermott, went onto say; “I am overwhelmed with the level of local support we are receiving here in North Shields, especially from local MP Alan Campbell and Loreen Butler of Generation North East. A very big thank you to everyone who’s involved with this project.”

If you are interested in pursuing a fishing career along the North East coast please contact either Terry McDermott on (07375) 701972 or Loreen Butler at Generation North East (0191) 6436407 or alternatively visit www.whitbyfishingschool.co.uk to download an application form.

Whitby Fishing School are now accepting applications for its next intake - so don’t delay!

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LOCAL NEWS

LOCAL DOG LOVERS HELP TO ENRICH LIVES

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ocal dog sitters, Barking Mad Tyne and Wear, are asking fellow dog lovers to join them in helping to change lives. The dog holiday specialists have officially partnered with Dogs for Good, a life transforming charity which creates partnerships between people living with disability and specially trained assistance dogs.

Sue of Washington, North and South Tyneside enthused: "We are so proud to announce that Dogs for Good is Barking Mad's chosen charity for 2018! Dogs for Good train assistance dogs to support adults and children with a wide range of disabilities and also children with autism, in order to enrich and improve lives. This is particularly relevant to the work which we undertake with our own dog sitting Host Community. We offer the opportunity to care for someone else's dog whilst its owners are away and through this initiative, we witness the amazing difference that canine companions can make in terms of improving social interaction and fitness every day.”

Cathryn Simpson, Corporate Partnerships Manager for Dogs for Good said, ‘We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Barking Mad in 2018, there’s obvious

synergy between the two organisations in respect of the dogs but more importantly the ethos of both organisations is closely matched and this is important to ensure a successful partnership.

Thank you to everyone for getting involved!"

Sue Seward of Barking Mad

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED? Barking Mad Tyne and Wear’s ultimate wish would be to raise enough money to fund the training of a Dogs for Good puppy and would really appreciate your help! Throughout 2018 they plan to hold fundraising events and would love to hear from you if you would like to get involved.

Sue can be contacted on 0191 4194242 390263 email Sue.seward@barkingmad.uk.com and you can also visit www.barkingmad.uk.com/franchisees/tyne-and-wear.

Sue is always looking for more host families for her business so if you are a dog lover who like some doggy visitors to stay with full support from Sue please contact the number above she would love to hear from you!

Dog lovers wanted to care for friendly dogs whilst their owners are away.

0191 4194242 BarkingMad.uk.com 16

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PLACES AVAILABLE FOR ADULT LEARNING COURSES Amateur snappers, budding teaching assistants and those who would like to improve their maths, English and IT skills are being urged to sign up for new courses.

Places are available on courses for digital photography, teaching assistants, maths, English and IT run by North Tyneside Council’s Adult Learning Service.

The sessions are part of North Tyneside Council and TyneMet College’s joint prospectus for adult learning courses in 2017-18.

Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “This is a great opportunity for residents to reach their full potential and this year’s programme features some of the very best adult learning courses around.

“I would urge residents to take advantage of courses like these, where you’re sure to pick up plenty of new skills and meet lots of new people.”

All of the courses on offer have been designed to offer great value for money. Many readers will find

18

that they will be able to study for free, or at a reduced price.

For further information, or to enrol on a course, go tonwww.skillsnorthtyneside.org.uk or telephone (0191) 643 2288.

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Hello from all the staff at Kirsha Knowles. We are excited to announce that we are now using Elemis products, and providing their treatments within the salon!

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE PURE SHORES: Writer Mark Twain once said ‘Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius’

Magical

MAURITIUS Hays personal travel consultant, Brittany Harrison (pictured left), is passionate about travel and enjoys passing on her recommendations to potential customers.

Here she shares her own experience of a visit to the beautiful island nation of Mauritius, in the Indian Ocean.

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M

auritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, best known for its beautiful powder white beaches, turquoise waters and luxury resorts.

Whether you like to chill out on the beach or take on a more active holiday, there is something for everyone in Mauritius. Over 100,000 British tourists visit the island every year. If you are a citizen of the EU, USA, Australia, Canada and a number of other countries you won’t need a visa, initial entry is granted for 3 months.

There is only one airport on the island, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. You can fly direct from London Heathrow with Air Mauritius or British Airways. Connecting flights from regional airports are also available. A direct flight from London Heathrow takes approximately 12 hours.

Mauritius is a year round destination, ideal for winter sun, and this is considered the best time to go weather wise. High season is between December – February, with average temperatures between 25c and 33c but there is a slight risk of cyclones at this time. December is also the best month for snorkelling and diving. May – September is low season, with cooler average temperatures between 18c and 25c.

There are many different attractions and tours that you can do on the island. Many tour operators offer full day trips that cover various attractions in one day.

My favourite tour was Dodo’s trail, this was around 10 hours included a visit to the capital Port Louis and the central market. On the way there we stopped off at

WISH YOU WERE around 90 minute HERE: It takes one side of the islas by car to get from nd to the other

SEVEN COLOURED EARTHS: A natural phenomenon in Mauritius, comprising of seven different coloured sands that settle into different layers.

Fort Adelaide and enjoyed magnificent views over the town and harbour. After Port Louis we went to a local restaurant, Escale Creole – Table d’Hotes for an authentic Mauritian lunch. The hosts were amazing and it really felt like we were at a family meal, we were presented with Mauritian specialities such as Creole sausages, chicken curry and fricasseed cabbage, all served with a local flavoured rum.

We then headed to the Blue Penny Museum and Caudan Waterfront – a modern shopping centre.

I also went on a full day scenic tour, the Wild South West. Another long day but a great experience we visited Chamarel Waterfall, 7-Coloured Earth, La Rhumerie de Chamarel, Grand Bassin, Trou aux Cerfs and a ship model factory. The highlight for me was La Rhumerie de Chamarel, it was really interesting to find out how the local rum is made and also sample the different flavours. If you are into hiking, then Black River Gorges National Park is for you! It is recommended you go with a local guide as it is easy to get lost.

Mauritius is often a go to destination for weddings and honeymoons, but don’t let that put you off. This is also a great destination for families. With plenty of history, culture and attractions on offer, it is not just for those who want to relax in the sun all day.

Writer Mark Twain once said ‘Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius’ I have no hesitation in recommending Mauritius, and we have all year round deals and offers available.

As your Hays personal travel consultant you only need to deal with me direct, so rest assured I'll be at the end of the phone or email for any assistance you may need.

Booking the perfect holiday for the you is my highest priority, from a weekend away to a dream wedding abroad, I aim to make the whole experience first class.

Being part of the UK's largest independent travel company makes me extremely competitive on price, and you'll also have peace of mind that your holiday is financially protected.

To book your next holiday call Brittany Harrison on 0191 4329548.

Email: brittany.harrison@hays-travel.co.uk www.haystravel.co.uk/brittany-harrison 25

26

Kitchen Xchange Ltd MADE TO MEASURE KITCHENS & BEDROOMS DIRECT FROM OUR FACTORY A warm welcome from Kevin & the team

OW LE N

ON

SA

We are a family business who design and build kitchens and bedrooms to meet our customers individual tastes and specifications.

At Kitchen Xchange you will find a large well presented showroom with all you need to create your dream kitchen or bedroom. Visit our showroom or give us a call and you will deal direct with us, no middlemen and no sales targets to hit, this way we find out what you the customers want. Our made to order kitchens and bedrooms are made in our factory, meaning savings we make can be passed directly onto our customers.

Over 30 Years Experience SOLID SURFACE WORKTOP SPECIALISTS SLIDING WARDROBE DOORS REPLACEMENT KITCHEN DOORS REPLACEMENT WORKTOPS

FREE HOME VISITS &

NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION Factory & Showroom, Unit 20, Mayfair House, Redburn Road, Westerhope, Newcastle, NE5 1NB

Tel: 0191 271 1333

www.kitchenxchange.co.uk OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 - 4:30PM SATURDAY 9:00 - 12:00PM 27

LOCAL NEWS

VOLUNTEERS WITH RED-GREEN COLOUR BLINDNESS WANTED TO HELP WITH STUDY

R

esearchers at Newcastle University’s colour vision lab are currently running a study to investigate the effects of one brand of commercially available glasses which claim to aid the colour blind.

Volunteers are required with all kinds of red-green colour blindness to help them with the investigation.

Colour-correcting glasses with particular filters are available commercially to enhance some colours. In the media colour-blind individuals often claim that such glasses have made a great difference to the quality of their lives. The study is investigating these claims by looking at the individual differences in performance on standard tests of colour discrimination when wearing these glasses.

Volunteers will be asked to carry out a small number of simple colour vision tests, and will also be asked to read coloured digits as well as sorting coloured chips into order both with and without the glasses.

There will be a 30-min time period for your eyes to get used to the glasses.

During this time you will be asked to complete two very basic personality questionnaires which are used as 28

simple control measures; there might be factors other than colour vision that influence performance on the tests. The study should take no longer than 75-90 minutes. You are required to make your own way to the Institute of Neuroscience at Newcastle University in Newcastle city centre. Travel costs wont be reimbursed but you will be given the chance to win one of several Love2Shop vouchers.

The findings of the study will provide a scientific evaluation of the actual effectiveness of the glasses for different types of colour blindness. For instance it is not known whether individuals with milder forms of colour blindness might benefit more.

Since the glasses are very expensive the findings will guide potential buyers. Participants will be able to try the glasses and decide for themselves if they’re worth purchasing.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Cat Pattie via email c.e.pattie1@ncl.ac.uk For information and support in colour blindness please see www.colourblindawareness.org.

WHAT IS COLOUR BLINDNESS? Colour blindness (colour vision deficiency, or CVD) affects approximately 1 in 12 men (8%) and 1 in 200 women in the world.

In Britain this means that there are approximately 2.7 million colour blind people (about 4.5% of the entire population), most of whom are male.

Most colour blind people are able to see things as clearly as other people but they are unable to fully ‘see’ red, green or blue light.

There are different types of colour blindness and there are extremely rare cases where people are unable to see any colour at all.

The most common form of colour blindness is known as red/ green colour blindness and most colour blind people suffer from this. Although known as red/green colour blindness this does not mean sufferers mix up red and green, it means they mix up all colours which have some red or green as part of the whole colour. For example, a red/green colour blind person will confuse a blue and a purple because they can’t ‘see’ the red element of the colour purple. See the example of pink, purple and blue pen cases below to understand this effect.

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8 Northumberland Square, North Shields, NE30 1QQ Hindle Campbell Law is the Business Name of Hindle Campbell Limited (registration number 2284273). Hindle Campbell Limited is registered in England & Wales with number 07868062 with its registered office at 8 Northumberland Square North Shields NE30 1QQ. Our VAT registration number is 297654011. We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (http://www.sra.org.uk) (registration number 629863).

LOCAL NEWS

CHALLENGE YOUNG VOLUNTEERS TO HELP YOUR COMMUNITY GROUP OR ORGANISATION

A

s part of the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme for 15-17 year olds, North Tyneside VODA is looking for community groups and organisations that could use the help of a team of volunteers for a short-term project.

NCS is an exciting four-week volunteering programme for young people aged between 15 and 17. As well as taking part in an away-from-home residential, and developing teamwork, communication and a range of other skills, the volunteers are also tasked with carrying out a social action project for the benefit of their local community. This involves working as a team to find solutions to problems faced by community groups and voluntary organisations.

Robin Fry, VODA’s Chief Executive, explains more: “Social action basically means people doing something practical to improve a problem or challenge faced by the community. This can be anything from sprucing up a run-down room in a community centre to creating a communal garden in a neglected outdoor space. This summer, we will have 17 teams of young people ready and willing to get involved in challenges that they can carry out together in the time they have. We’d love to hear from any groups or organisations that have a problem that needs addressing, or for whom this type of short-term but 30

intensive volunteering could really help.”

VODA (Voluntary Organisations Development Agency) has been delivering the National Citizen Service programme for seven years, involving over 100 young people in social action in North Tyneside. Previous years have seen the young people design and develop a range of social action projects around issues they care about such as homelessness and internet safety. This year, the challenge is going to be a little bit different. “We want to see how the young people can use their skills to come up with solutions to existing problems, how they can work together and with the people in their local community to make a real and lasting difference. We also want to offer

the participants a chance to keep volunteering when they graduate from the programme, something we know many of them are extremely keen to do.”

Any community groups or voluntary organisations interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact VODA and let them know about the challenge they face.

Selected groups will be supported to create a short film outlining their challenge, which will be presented to one of the teams of young volunteers. A team of 15 young people – as well as two members of support staff – will then give 60 hours of their time over a two week period to carry out their social action project. Participating groups will also gain lots of positive publicity and be invited to a Celebration Event at the end of the NCS programme.

For more information or to submit your challenge contact VODA on 0191 643 2626 or complete the online form at www.voda.org.uk/ncs.

National Citizen Service in Social Action

One team from last year’s NCS programme was concerned about the stigma surrounding people talking about their own mental health. The team decided to build a tree sculpture and decorate it with leaves on to which stories of people who suffer from mental health issues were written. The tree aimed to reduce the stigma around mental health with the motto ‘Awareness of Mental Health Needs to Grow’.

Supported by mental health charity MIND, the team collected stories from different charities focusing on mental health; they also participated in a family event at Meadowell Connected where they collected more stories, then had a launch event at The Exchange in North Shields, where they exhibited the tree.

Concerned with increases in loneliness and isolation, a second team of young people created a project called 'Happy Hearts'. The team wanted to provide help and support to lonely members of the community. In order to do this, they split the project into two halves. The ‘Shopping Buddies' element of the project saw the young people develop a partnership with Tesco and offer support to older shoppers who were on their own, offering conversation and company, and help with their shopping. The second half saw the young people visit the homes of local older people and host social tea parties.

RESCUE AND SECURE YOUR OLD CINE FILMS, SLIDES AND VIDEO TAPES TO DVD • Cine Film to DVD • Audio Cassettes to CD • Selected Vinyl albums to CD • VHS to DVD Transfer • Camcorder Tapes • Slides to CD

Tel: 0191 234 4606

Foto Snaps, 24 High Street East, Wallsend, NE28 8PQ www.fotosnapswallsend.co.uk

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

Spring INTO

SUMMER

WITH BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL

A

s the days grow longer and warmer and we dare to throw open the windows and doors to welcome in the fresh air, many people’s thoughts will turn to spring cleaning.

Helen Ross and her Bright & Beautiful team keep the homes of North Tyneside clean and sparkling all year round but did you know that cleaning our houses at this time of year has a rich and varied history?

The Chinese have an ancient tradition of cleaning their homes ahead of the new year, which occurs just shortly after the Western new year. They sweep the floors to get rid of any bad luck or misfortune that may have accumulated during the previous year.

As well as having its origins in history, spring cleaning also has a lot to do with biology. In the winter, the shorter days mean we are exposed to less sunlight and this reduced exposure to light produces melatonin in the body, the hormone that produces sleepiness. When the days start getting longer and

“

At this time of year we want to be able to enjoy our free time – not be ironing, washing windows or mopping floors all weekend.

lighter we produce less melatonin and feel more energetic.

Helen, who runs the award winning Bright & Beautiful domestic housekeeping service in North Tyneside, looks after homes across the area, delivering the highest standards of cleaning, tidying and laundry.

Helen says: “At this time of year we want to be able to enjoy our free time and make the most of the warmer weather – not be ironing, washing windows or mopping floors all weekend. Coming home to a clean and fresh smelling home, with the washing done and put away by our professional trained housekeepers, well it’s enough to put a spring into anyone’s step!”

Bright & Beautiful is an award winning domestic housekeeping service that delivers the highest standards of cleaning, tidying, ironing and laundry. To find out more about how they can help to give you your free time back visit www.brightandbeautifulhome.com/north-tyneside or contact Helen Ross helen.ross@brightandbeautifulhome.com Tel: 0191 731 4973 32

Daren Persson Funeral Services

We are here to help you create a funeral ceremony relevent to the life and beliefs of your loved ones.

Bespoke chapels of rest and 24 hour personal attention.

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2b Churchill Street, Wallsend, NE28 7SZ Tel: 0191 234 0562

w w w. d a r e n p e r s s o n f u n e r a l s . c o . u k

0191 731 4973 www.brightandbeautifulhome.com/north-tyneside PLEASE QUOTE CODE: SPRING

33

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

QUALITY FURNISHINGS & FLOORING AT FOXHUNTERS CARPETS & BEDS

Y

our bed isn't just the place where you sleep, it's the centrepiece of your bedroom.

With a wide range of beds and mattresses, from single to king size, divan beds with different storage options and a choice of mattresses to suit your comfort preference and budget, Foxhunters carpets and beds, based on Claremont Road in Whitley Bay have a choice that will suit everyone. Add a comprehensive range of quality headboards, bedframes and bedroom furniture and you have the perfect recipe for a goodnights sleep.

A family-run business with over 21 years' experience Foxhunters, spacious showroom showcases a great selection of beds and flooring from top quality manufacturers. They pride themselves on their quality customer service and In most instances are able to deliver goods to your home within days of your order.

With ranges from Silent Night, Sealy and Rest Assured, the team at Foxhunters advise you to allow plenty of time when deciding on the bed you want.

When shopping for a new bed, Foxhunters advise you to start with lying on the most expensive bed and work your way down. (So you get to know all levels of comfort.) Shop with your body and not with your eyes, most manufacturers offer mattresses in soft, medium and firm. Try all of these options to be sure what feels best for you but remember, there is no industry wide standard for tension so they will vary between ranges.

Remember, as a general rule, you get what you pay for.

So every £100 you spend represents an investment of just 3p a night! (Assuming a life span of 10 years).

34

If you’re looking to update your interior, Foxhunters have every room covered! They also offer a wide range of flooring, from luxurious patterns to stylish plains; whether you want to make a strong statement in your lounge or a classy backdrop to your bedroom scheme – they have a carpet for you from brands such as Brintons, Ulster and Cormar.

Hard flooring solutions such as vinyl and laminates are on offer, and they also stock an extensive range of remnants at knock down prices for you to take away or be delivered to your home the following day.

With Free local delivery, no obligation measuring and quotations, free car parkingand expert advice, there’s plenty of reasons to visit Foxhunters Carpets and Bed warehouse.

SPECIAL OFFER

20% off all Silentnight beds, mattresses and headboards at Foxhunters Carpets & Beds until 8th May 2018 Foxhunters Carpet & Bed Warehouse, Claremont Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 3TP Phone: 0191 251 7776 www.foxhunterscarpetandbedwarehouse.co.uk

Home is where the care is Home care from Bluebird Care

Find out more about home care and the difference it could make to your life.

Email the Bluebird Care team: northtyneside@bluebirdcare.co.uk or call us on 0191 500 9751

bluebirdcare.co.uk/northtyneside

35

WE CAN CLEAR.

GUTTER CLEANING SPECIALISTS

We use a powerful vacuum to reach up and clear debris & even grass from your gutters.

BEFORE

WE CAN CLEAN.

From the ground we clean your guttering & fascia boards to remove unsightly staining.

AFTER

WE CAN ALSO CLEAN Conservatories and conservatory roofs.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

We can quote instantly. No visit required. We just need to know how many bedrooms you have & your postcode.

Hello, I’m Larry

I own & operate GutterPRO across North Shields,Tynemouth, Whitley Bay, Shiremoor, Wallsend and the surrounding areas.

Because its’s my business , you’ll get a personal service and be certain we’ll clear up thoroughly after the job.

36

GET A QUOTE & BOOK ONLINE

GutterPRO.co.uk gutterpronortheast Call

0191 654 0035 mobile: 07813 306711 Fully Insured Uniformed Staff Before & After Photos Cards Accepted

Eothen Homes

A Different Concept In Dementia Care

At Eothen Homes we are committed to providing excellent care with Christian values.

Our home in Wallsend is different to other residential homes offering dementia care. Space and room for residents to move around and enjoy life freely has played a central part of the building’s design and daily life is not made up of routine and tasks but allows people to get up and eat and drink when and where they want.

In other words it is just like home.

As well as our specialist dementia care facility, we have homes in Whitley Bay and Gosforth which offer 24 hour permanent residential care as well as short term respite and day care.

Please feel free to call in to any of our homes for a cup of tea, a chat and a look around at any time.

Whitley Bay

EOTHEN

Gosforth

Christian Care for the Elderly

Wallsend

Miller Way, NE28 8EL, 0191 259 8000 Park Gardens, NE26 2TX, 0191 297 0707 ElmďŹ eld Road, NE3 4BB, 0191 213 0707

Head Office 0191 281 9100

HOMES LIMITED

www.eothenhomes.org.uk

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE ROLLER BLINDS: A statement piece which can speak volumes about your style.

Get

Inspired at

CONTOUR BLINDS

Blinds make practical and pretty additions to the home. As well as turning windows into room features, they also help with privacy and keep draughts at bay in chillier months.

38 38

G

ood quality blinds are an investment, so it’s worth bringing an expert in who can measure your space and run through colour, material and pattern options.

Leading North East window blind supplier Contour Blinds, offer an extensive range of high quality and affordable blinds for the home and workplace and offer a no obligation quotation and free measuring and fitting so you know exactly what to expect.

Established in 1995, they are a family run business who pride themselves on their prompt and professional service.

Whether you’d like roller blinds, wood Venetian or deluxe shutters, Contour Blinds will have a type and design that is ideal for you.

A favourite in home decor, roller blinds are a statement piece which can speak volumes about your style. They provide privacy, light control and can significantly improve thermal performance. simple in design, stylish and easy to operate. The blind can be rolled up or down to achieve

WOODEN VENETIANS: Add character and warmth to your room

INSPIRATIONAL: rs An extensive range of colou and fabrics are available

the required level of shading you require. You can add those personalised finishing touches with decorative scallops, braids, pulls, poles and eyelets to co-ordinate with your interior design scheme. Contour Blinds roller blind selection are individually manufactured to your unique specification!

Vertical blinds are a practical, classic solution appropriate for all rooms. Privacy can be achieved whilst still allowing full light control, during the day and at night.

Now available in many on- trend colours and patterns, inspirational new designs are the modern alternatives to the traditional whites and creams. Linear floral, geometric and retro patterns make a contemporary statement, while the use of taffeta silk or suede-like fabrics offer a subtle, luxurious effect.

In addition, an extensive range of colours in plains and black-out fabrics as well as jacquards and sheers all serve to offer a great range, creating a sharp modern twist whilst still maintaining the versatility and functionality of a tried and tested product. A wand control can remove the need for cords or chains making them safe and perfectly suited for a home with young children

To make it even easier to operate your blinds, opt for a motorised control system. You can open and close your blinds with the touch of a button. Motorised is perfect for skylights and other hard to reach windows in your home or office.

If you’re keen to add character and warmth to your rooms wooden venetians are a timeless and elegant solution. Wood is a natural insulator, so wooden blinds help to keep out the cold in winter and shade your room in the summer. Options of slat size, colour and finish as well as the further option of woven tapes ensure that you can express your own interior style.

A simple yet elegant alternative to blinds are shutters.

From café style which covers the lower half of your window to full height, they can work on any window but gives a real wow factor and dramatic finish to any home!

Contour also offer panel blinds, pleated, woodweave and many more. If you’re looking for inspiration to brighten up your home or want see more of their ranges, why not visit one of their two showrooms in Benton and Whitley Bay? Their experts will be on hand to discuss your requirements and help you make the right choice.

For added peace of mind, Contour are Certified members of the British Blinds and Shutters association.

They are fully committed to help eliminate the risk associated with hazardous looped operating cords, chains and tapes used on window blinds. All blinds come with a child safety warning tag attached which explains the risks of blind cord, chain and tape and the precautions which can be put into action.

With a free home visit, and free measuring and fitting, why not contact them today.

Whitley Bay: 33 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Lodge, Whitley Bay, NE26 3HL. Tel. 0191 251 3757 Benton: Unit 6A, North Tyne Industrial estate, Whitley Road, Benton, NE12 9SZ. Tel. 0191 261 5915 www.contourblinds.com

WOW FACTOR: Shutters add a dramatic finish to your home

39 39

BUSINESS

10 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WEBSITE

Whether you’re a small business, sole trader or have a site as a hobby or side-hustle, having a good website is essential. Aube Creative share their 10 ways to make sure your website is as easy to use (and as user-friendly) as possible...

MAKE IT IS SMARTPHONE-FRIENDLY

ALWAYS USE RELEVANT IMAGERY

MAKE SURE IT LOADS QUICKLY

WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE!

We live in a Smartphone Society (Google claims 61% of users are unlikely to return to a mobile site they had trouble accessing and 40% visit a competitor’s site instead) so your website must display beautifully on mobile phones and tablets.

People have less patience these days. Always make sure your website loads quickly and presents them what they want to see and sharpish. Faster speeds also improve your overall Google ranking. Good quality hosting always helps.

MAKE SURE PEOPLE CAN FIND YOU IN THE FIRST PLACE

If a full-on photo shoot is out of the question you can always use good quality stock photography instead.

Make sure the images match what your content is explaining. Avoid using images from free stock libraries which everyone uses over and over again.

Keep it really simple. Don't bombard your readers with jargon only you and your team can understand. If neccessary, use a glossary. And avoid spelling mistakes.

CALLS-TO-ACTION

Develop an SEO strategy. Consider the search terms your audience might use to find you. Include content that's relevant: how-to videos, blog articles, e-books...

What do you want people to do once they've landed on your website? CTA buttons are one of the many elements used to indicate the next action a user should take.

Example call-to-actions are: Download your Price List, Newsletter sign-up, Enter a competition...

MAKE IT EASY TO NAVIGATE

DON'T FORGET YOUR CONTACT INFO

Stick to navigation protocols people have come to expect. Always ensure navigation buttons are obvious and easily identifiable (towards the top of the page is best) and that all your links are working correctly so the user can quickly switch from page to page.

DISPLAY A STRONG CONSISTENT BRAND MESSAGE

Project the right image. Position your logo and core message in the top left hand corner. It’s the part of the screen to which our eyes are most naturally drawn.

Make it VERY easy for people to get in touch with you.

You'd be surprised how many websites don't display correct contact info on every page. And it's so important!

DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

Your website is usually the first glimpse a potential new customer will get of your business. And first impressions last forever. Asking a professional to help can often save you time and money while you focus on developing your business instead.

NEED SOME HELP? Founded in 2008 aube=creative loves helping customers to create websites their own customers will love to use. Consultations are FREE. Call Paul on 079393 02550. Or visit aubecreative.co.uk 40

At our North Shields showroom you will meet people are passionate about design, quality and customer care. A visit to domani bathrooms will introduce you to everything from simple brassware to bespoke shower enclosures and our exclusive range of tiles We offer a full design & installation service so whether you have an immediate project in mind or are just simply looking for ideas, our knowledgeable enthusiastic design team can help you create a bathroom tailored for you and your needs

20% OFF EVERYTHING & FREE UNDERFLOOR HEATING WITH EVERY INSTALLED BATHROOM (NOT IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER)

Tyne Tunnel Trade Park, Unit 10, Narvik Way, North Shields NE29 7DE 0191 2964929

Suppliers of Luxury Tiles & Bathrooms

www.domanibathrooms.co.uk info@domanibathrooms.co.uk

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8.30AM - 5PM, SATURDAY 10AM - 4PM

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Fires, Fireplaces and Stoves

0191 2656 888 info@infernofiresandstoves.co.uk

260–262 Shields Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE6 1DX

www.infernofiresandstoves.co.uk

GIFTS AND CLOTHING

gold ZUMBA GOLD IS THE LOWER IMPACT, EASY TO FOLLOW, LATIN INSPIRED DANCE FITNESS CLASS

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Friday

Linskill Centre, Linksill Terrace North Shields, NE30 2AY

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL IRENE ON 0191 257 1357

42

PLASTERING CERAMIC TILING STONE TILING ROOF REPAIRS HOUSE REPAIRS

Tel: 01670 761180

Mob: 07761 756 665

UPVC DOOR &

WINDOW REPAIRS

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DESIGNED WITH THE FABULOUS OVER 50’s IN MIND!

Monday

& SON

Email: dtservices@hotmail.co.uk

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EXPERIENCE

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Locks, Handles & Hinges Letterboxes & Door Panels Adjustment & Servicing Find us on Misted Glass Units Rubber Seals

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Visit www.redbubble.com/people/northerndays Or scan this QR code with your phone

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Facial Aesthetics

at Shiremoor Dental Practice

Facial aesthetic treatments, otherwise known as facial rejuvenation treatments, offer a non-surgical treatments way of reducing the signs of ageing on the face.

Shiremoor Dental Practice 1 Lesbury Avenue, Shiremoor, Newcastle upon Tyne NE27 0NL

A natural, more youthful appearance can be achieved with a choice of treatments carried out by our experienced, fully trained, qualiďŹ ed and professional members of our team.

Tel: 0191 253 0001 Email: info@shiremoordental.co.uk

We offer wrinkle reduction, dermal ďŹ llers, skin peels, and micro-needling.

Website: www.shiremoordental.co.uk

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NewSpace Loft Storage We create space so everything has a place

BEFORE

WE ARE SPECIALISTS Our hobby/play rooms are a fantastic

IN CREATING

HOBBY ROOMS

From

Only alternative to a full loft conversion, they provide valuable space to be used for a variety of uses and at a fraction of the cost of a full conversion.

Includes: Independent Floor • Timber Ladder Lights & Sockets • Plaster Boarded • Velux Window

£3995 FINANCE AVAILABLE

LOFT STORAGE SPACE PACKAGE Add storage space in your property with our special loft package which includes: • Loft Ladder • New hatch • Light with Switch • Flooring

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AFTER

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A.HORNSBY

Plumbing

Family run business, established over 21 years

No Job Too Small

Taps Replaced ● Leaks Toilets ● Blocked Drains Radiators Moved Or Replaced Outside Taps Fitted Broken Drains Repaired From A Tap Washer... ...To A Full Bathroom All Work Guaranteed Free Estimates ● Fast & Friendly Service Clean & Tidy Workmanship

Tel: 0191 274 3133

Mobile: 07984 154 845

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LOCAL NEWS

90 BRAND NEW HOMES UNVEILED FOR SALE AT SMITH’S DOCK

P

laces for People and Urban Splash, the joint venture redeveloping Smith’s Dock in North Shields, have revealed for the first time their site-wide masterplan vision; it shows the extent of the new Tyneside community, with many of the planned residential and public realm phases visible.

The reveal comes ahead of the creation of 90 new homes at the waterside development, many of which will be launched for sale in March.

80 of the properties will be housed within the waterfront Smokehouses; the two buildings – designed by Simpson Haugh– will comprise a range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom properties each offering amazing views of the River Tyne and will be ready for occupation from early next year. Prices start from £125,000.

Stuart Wheeler of Simpson Haugh said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see Smokehouses take shape, one of the first phases of the Smith’s Dock masterplan we’ve been developing with Places for People since 2009. Inspired by the site’s rich history, and in collaboration with Places for People and Urban Splash, we’re creating unique, light-filled and spacious homes, the quality of which sets a benchmark for the rest of the development of the landmark site.”

A further 10 homes will be launched for buyers looking for spacious family homes; known as Fab House, they are designed by North East TV star and architect George Clarke in conjunction with TDO TRANSFORMATION TEAM (L – R): Guy Ackernley of Urban Splash, George Clarke, Mark Latham of Urban Splash and Nigel Brewer of Place for People.

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Architecture, and stand adjacent to the three-storey Town Houses launched at the scheme late last year.

Speaking of the Fab Houses, prices which start from £225,000, George said: “I am thrilled that we can now show buyers around these homes. What we’re creating here are proper family homes that are spacious, well planned and will encourage family living.”

Tom Lewith, director, TDO Architecture said: ‘We are delighted to have contributed to this pioneering project.

Fab House is the culmination of a rewarding design collaboration with George Clarke and extensive R&D with SIG Off-site. Modular construction has a vital role to play in reaching house building targets and as a young practice we’re excited to be part of this” Added Nigel Brewer of Places for People: “I’ve been involved in this project for many years now and it really is exciting to have reached this stage. It shows just how we’re working to make the whole area make for a wonderful community; it’s an important historic site and its redevelopment is the epitome of true regeneration – with diverse home designs, sensitively designed public spaces and the reopening the stunning waterfront.”

Concluded Guy Ackernley, director of residential sales at Urban Splash: “The Smokehouses and Fab Houses bring more options to Smith’s Dock; it’s a demonstration of how varied we want the residential offering to be here and means that we can now offer properties across a much broader price spectrum.

“We’ll have some amazing apartments on offer from a great, first time buyer friendly price point,of £125,000 through to the last remaining three-storey family homes on offer in the Town House first phase of the scheme. Help to Buy is available on some homes too too, making these homes an accessible option for local customers.”

To register your interest or secure details ahead of the launch, please contact Rose Miller at Sanderson Young on 0191 580 7999 or email rosemarymiller@smithsdock.co.uk.

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