Durham County News Spring 2015 by DCC Design and Print

DURHAM

www.durham.gov.uk

Spring 2015

County News The magazine for people in County Durham

Go wild for our new Gruffalo inspired trail .

County Durham’s starring role 2015 - An entertaining year Online safety What’s On

WELCOME

to the spring edition of Durham County News

Springtime often gives us a feeling of renewed energy and enthusiasm for the year ahead. And what a year 2015 is set to be, with the return of so many favourite festivals and events, including the eagerly anticipated Lumiere Durham in November. We’ve pulled together a calendar of highlights on pages 4-5.

Councillor Simon Henig, Leader of the Council

We’re also hoping that burst of springtime energy might see some of you taking up volunteering opportunities or getting involved in the Durham Ask. You can read more about both of these on pages 7-9.

April also starts our new financial year and with it a reassessment of how our money is spent. We’ve outlined our plans for our 2015-16 budget on page 6. If you also have financial matters on your mind, read our guide to debt, credit unions and where to turn for financial help on pages 10-11.

Competition entries

Competition entries should be received by Friday 10 April 2015 (unless the competition states otherwise). Pop your entries in one envelope (don’t forget to use a stamp!) and post to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham DH1 1RH or drop them in to reception at any of our access points.

Durham County News is written and designed by Durham County Council, printed by Acorn Web Oﬀset Ltd and distributed by The National Leaflet Company and Royal Mail. It costs 16p a copy.

To contact the editorial team, call 03000 268 059 or email durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk

Please ask us if you would like this document summarised in another language or format

When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it.

Contents

Simon Henig Page

4-5

Food to fashion, our 2015 calendar has it all Page

8-9

Give a little, get back a lot

Page News

Page

12-13 16-17

Be even greener this spring Page

Online safety

Page

24-25

On the trail of the Gruffalo

Page

6-7

Our budget and how you can help Page

10-11

Money worries? Read our helpful advice Page

14-15

Becoming dementia friendly Page

Tackling the fly-tippers

Page

21-23

Local news pages

Page

26-31

What’s on this spring

Front cover: “Oh help, oh no. It’s a Gruffalo!” Lily and Jack head on the new trail at Hardwick Park, which is inspired by Julia Donaldson’s famous character. See page 24.

County Durham’s

STARRING ROLE Beautiful, stylish, full of charm - everything required to be a star of TV and film.

And our county has it in spades, which is why it’s enjoying top billing on our TVs.

In January, in ITV’s Richard Wilson On The Road, the actor retraced the 1937 Shell County Guide on Durham, visiting Durham Cathedral and Beamish Museum.

In May, BBC Two will broadcast a series on the Pennines. Polar explorer Paul Rose kayaks at Low Force, looks at geology at Cow Green reservoir and visits the Bowes Museum.

Filming recently finished for series eight of the popular BBC crime drama, Inspector George Gently, set in the 60s and filmed at locations across the county - including Stanley, Wolsingham, Durham and South Moor. Several council premises feature, including County Hall, the former Greenland School in South Moor, the Morrison Busty depot and the Louisa Centre in Stanley. Spot them when it is broadcast this spring.

Next month, filming starts on ITV’s epic warrior drama Beowulf in Eastgate Quarry, Weardale. We gave ITV planning permission to build a town set in the former limestone quarry, including a mead hall, 20 houses, a forge, walkways and jetties. Thirteen one-hour episodes will air in 2016 with many hotly anticipating it will have the same appeal as Game of Thrones.

Cllr Neil Foster, our Cabinet member for economic regeneration and culture, said: “This is fantastic exposure for our county. We have an excellent track record of working with television producers and this is paying dividends. ITV filming in Weardale alone is estimated to generate £25,000 a day in local spend.”

Spotted County Durham on your screens? December 2014 Antiques Roadshow at Durham Cathedral.

August 2014 Harriet’s Army, a CBBC drama filmed at the Beamish Museum.

August 2014 Tanfield Railway in Michael Portillo’s Railways of the Great War.

March 2014 Castle Veterinary Surgeons in Barnard Castle in the BBC’s More Creatures Great and Small.

March 2014 Countryfile at Matt Baker’s family farm in the Durham Dales.

2013 The Paradise, BBC department store drama, filmed on the Lambton estate.

In film: Durham Cathedral starred as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films; Easington Colliery and Dawdon were used to film Billy Elliot; Cate Blanchett filmed scenes from Elizabeth at Raby Castle and Durham Cathedral; whilst Blast Beach at Dawdon doubled as an alien planet in Alien 3.

www.thisisdurham.com/FilmandTV

County’s starring role

Looking forward to

2015

You can get lots of information, and apply online for council services via

www.durham.gov.uk

This year County Durham is playing host to a spectacular line-up of events. From live music to fashion through to sport and food there are some fantastic things to see and do. And, the best part is they are all on our doorstep.

If you need to phone us, call Customer Services

03000 26 0000 8.30am-5pm (Monday-Thursday) 8.30am-4.30pm (Friday) Out of hours emergency service available. If you have a specific query, use one of our dedicated numbers: Streetscene, Highways and Street Lighting Enquiries

03000 26 1000 Includes rubbish and recycling, street lighting faults, potholes, commercial waste, neighbourhood wardens, stray dogs, abandoned vehicles, pest control, street cleaning, litter and dog fouling, graffiti, fly-tipping, fly posting, parks, open spaces and cemeteries maintenance.

April Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 Bishop Auckland Food Festival Market Place, Town Hall and Auckland Castle The streets will burst into gastronomic life as the annual festival celebrates the very best of Northern food. There will be demonstrations, masterclasses and tutored tastings with some of the country’s most well-known chefs. www.bishopaucklandfoodfestival.co.uk

May Thursday 28 Pearl Izumi Tour Series, Durham City Watch the thrills and spills of professional cycling as the teams compete on Durham’s notorious cobbles, narrow streets, tight turns and hills. Look out for the new squad of Tour de France winner Sir Bradley Wiggins. www.thetour.co.uk

Benefit Enquiries

03000 26 2000 Council Tax Enquiries

03000 26 4000

Also this month: Sunday 24, Mod Festival, Chester-le-Street Riverside From The Jam, featuring former Jam bassist Bruce Foxton, headline this May bank holiday mod revival. www.riversidelive.org

Social Care Direct/Children’s First Contact service

03000 26 79 79 Families Information Service

0800 917 2 917 NHS: if you need medical help fast, but it isn’t a 999 emergency

111

@DurhamCouncil /durhamcouncil linkedin.com/company/ durham-county-council

June Monday 1 June to Monday 31 August Magna Carta and the Changing Face of Revolt Palace Green Library, Durham City This year marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta. The only surviving 1216 copy of the great charter will be on display in this commemorative exhibition. 0191 334 2932, www.dur.ac.uk/palace.green/magnacarta Also this month: Saturday 13 to Sunday 14, Durham Regatta, Durham City Crews from around the world will be competing on the picturesque River Wear. www.durham-regatta.org.uk

www.youtube.com/user/ DurhamCouncil

Looking forward to 2015

July

September

Saturday 11 July to Sunday 25 October Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal The Bowes Museum The first UK exhibition of the legendary fashion designer will feature 50 key pieces, including the iconic female smoking jacket and Mondrian dresses. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Turn to page 27 to be in with a chance of winning a terrific Bowes Museum prize.

Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 Heritage Open Days Venues across County Durham Discover hidden architectural treasures and see local history and culture come to life. It’s not too late to get in touch if you have an idea - an interesting building, an exhibition, a story to be told. 03000 267 133, www.heritageopendays.org

Also this month: Saturday 11, Durham Miners’ Gala, Durham City A day to remember County Durham’s rich mining heritage with a magnificent display of marching bands and banners. www.durhamminers.org Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 Brass: Durham International Festival, Across County Durham Experience music, colourful performances, international street bands and art installations at this vibrant festival celebrating the county’s cherished musical tradition. www.brassfestival.co.uk

August Tuesday 18 Pride and Prejudice Open Air Theatre Scar Top, Barnard Castle Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents magical theatre in magical surroundings. What better way to spend a summer evening than enjoying a picnic with friends and family while meeting Jane Austen’s most loveable heroine Elizabeth Bennet? 01833 638 212, www.chapterhouse.org

Also this month: Sunday 6, Durham Big Ride / Sunday 20, The Beast, Durham City The Big Ride is a family cycle ride for all ages and abilities, while The Beast is a tough and challenging course for experienced riders. www.durhambigride.co.uk

October Monday 19 to Sunday 25 TakeOff Festival Across County Durham England’s leading festival of theatre for children and young people promises to be bigger and bolder than ever. www.takeofffestival.org.uk Also this month: Durham Book Festival Book-lovers young and old will be treated to literary delights from a wealth of writers, poets and wordsmiths.

November Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 Lumiere, Durham City Durham City is the shining star of the UK’s largest outdoor light festival. The city is brought to life with dazzling effect in a programme that is as thought-provoking as it is spectacular. www.lumiere-festival.com

December Friday 4 to Sunday 6 Durham Christmas Festival Palace Green and Durham Cathedral A merry way to kick-off the Christmas festivities, this annual market features over a hundred quality craft, gift and food stalls. www.durhamchristmasfestival.com

Looking forward to 2015

Budget Challenge Government spending on council services is set to continue to fall. This will present further challenges as we seek to maintain frontline services with dramatically reducing resources. We have now agreed our latest Budget and Medium Term Financial Plan for the next financial year 2015 to 2016.

We believe that by 2019 we will have to reduce spending by £250 million as a result of the government’s austerity programme.

Overall, we expect that government grants in 2019 will be 60 per cent less than they were when the spending reductions began in 2011.

The Office for Budget Responsibility has said reductions to this degree would shrink public spending to a level not seen since before the Second World War.

County Durham is being hit very hard through the continuing reductions in Government grants. This is the biggest element of our funding, unlike more affluent areas of the country who receive a bigger proportion of funding through Council Tax and Business Rates. This means it will become increasingly difficult to continue our current strategy of protecting frontline services wherever we can. One of our strategies to try to protect the services that matter most to communities is the Durham Ask (see opposite page for details).

Budget Challenge

What’s next

Between now and 2019, we’ll have to reduce our spending by another £114 million on top of what we’ve already saved.

With the extra spending reductions we face, it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to protect frontline services from the impact of the cuts, to the same degree as we have done in the past.

Investing where it’s needed

In spite of the financial pressures we face, we’ll continue to focus spending in line with the public’s priorities and where investment will help to create jobs and prosperity. We will:

•

In 2015/16 we will:

• • • • • • •

achieve savings of £16.3 million;

use £9 million of reserves to support the 2015/16 budget;

continue to make savings by reducing management and administration costs;

review our office requirements to cut down on space and costs; review services to identify what we can afford to provide;

work with community and voluntary groups interested in taking on services and buildings; increase council tax by just under two per cent, in line with limits set by the government.

• • •

continue to protect working age people and pensioners in need from the cut in national council tax benefit for a further year; maintain a welfare assistance scheme in spite of the cut in national funding;

increase our capital programme to £145 million, including improving roads, ﬂood protection and town centre investment;

continue to invest in improving access to fast speed broadband in the county and our website and online services.

Our big ask

Defending frontline services, whilst also making savings of £136 million, has been a huge undertaking. Now we believe that the savings required will be £250 million by 2019. It will be extremely challenging to continue to protect all frontline services whilst meeting this new target. That’s why we’re looking at new ways of working with communities. Our Durham Ask urges communities to help us secure the future of assets like leisure centres, libraries and play areas by helping us maintain or run them, or by taking them over.

In a nutshell What is asset transfer in Durham?

An exciting opportunity for communities to become involved or take over the running and management of local facilities, land or services previously managed by the council.

We’ve already worked with many communities to successfully transfer 97 community buildings, like Macrae House in Murton (pictured) and Citizens House in Consett (read about their journey below). Deerness and Coxhoe Leisure Centres are also good examples of how local communities can come together to deliver services.

What are the benefits?

You can control your own community facility and access funding we are unable to. It makes sure your facilities are there in the future, managed by your community, delivering services that are needed and valued.

Who can take over an asset or service?

Community groups, including town and parish councils, local voluntary and community groups.

How can I find out more?

03000 268 055 www.durham.gov.uk/communityassets

A place for everyone

Never has a name been more aptly given than Citizens House.

It’s there for everyone. Around 400 people a week pass through its doors, from local interest groups, like the choir (pictured) to support in times of trouble.

Now, Citizens House in Consett really is in the hands of the citizens, because the committee has taken over responsibility for the centre from Durham County Council.

Over the last three years we’ve invested £2.15m to help communities take control of our community buildings.

This programme is now ending and we anticipate 97 of 120 community buildings will remain in community use; 61 managed by community groups; 24 managed by housing providers; six converted to housing; and five leased or sold for community use.

Citizens House Chairman George Gibbon says it’s been a tough process to go through, but they’re focussed on the future, which includes exciting plans for an extension.

“We want the centre to have a strong future. We’ve had support from the council, Durham University, Durham Community Action and D3 Associates and nothing would get done without our Treasurer, Jen Stephenson. Now we’ve got exciting plans to extend and accommodate more groups.”

Help Citizens House take its next steps. Volunteer by calling 01207 589 500.

Budget Challenge

What difference can YOU make? If you wake up this spring and want to do one thing to change your life and that of someone else - then volunteer. Volunteering is not fluffy do-gooding, it’s life changing. Both for you as a volunteer and the people you work with.

In County Durham, volunteers make a huge difference. All you have to do is look around. From the people helping at your local community centre; delivering meals and books to people at home; keeping the countryside tidy; helping at big events like Lumiere; to running clubs for kids. Volunteers are everywhere. So, if you’ve a little time to give, read on, be inspired and make that call.

Digging deep It’s dirty work but somebody has got to do it, and thankfully there’s a wealth of volunteers up for digging, planting, cleaning and painting. It’s thanks to them that Durham in Bloom won gold in 2014 in the Britain in Bloom Award and a Northumbria in Bloom trophy for 12 of the last 15 years. Hundreds of people from businesses, local organisations and churches put in 3,465 hours, around £32,000 of free time, to make our city a winner last year.

It’s not just in Durham, volunteers across the county from Horden to Sedgeﬁeld and Medomsley to Middleton-in-Teesdale and many others also gave their time to make towns and villages In Bloom winners: an impressive 16 entries in Northumbria in Bloom.

At Durham Railway Station, schoolchildren involved in the environmental learning project HAGGRID revitalised the viewpoint and helped to plant up the raised beds in the station, earning their Level 1 Horticultural Qualification at the same time.

Young people from Kings Church have supported Durham in Bloom for many years, tackling even the messiest jobs with gusto. This year, eight volunteers painted out graffiti at Wharton Park.

Kings Church volunteer Vicki Sparks told us how much she enjoyed working at Wharton Park.

Living here in Durham, I think it is a beautiful city and I like the idea of improving it and creating a place that people enjoy visiting.

“

“Working at Wharton Park was great fun and the council staﬀ we worked with were obviously really passionate about Durham in Bloom and it was great to contribute to that. Volunteering and helping people when they need it is a really important part of our church life. Find out more at www.durham.gov.uk/inbloom or call 03000 26 1000. 8

Volunteering

”

One-stop shop for volunteering

If you want to volunteer, brilliant! You are in demand.

But finding out which organisations need volunteers, and what kinds of skills they want, can be tricky as the information isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t available centrally.

All that is about to change. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working with our partners to create a new Centre for Volunteering and Social Enterprise.

This new centre, which launches in April, coordinates volunteering opportunities and brings together advice, training and support for volunteers.

Managed by Durham Community Action, it also supports organisations that offer voluntary placements. Durham Community Action has loads of experience in volunteering already, with opportunities covering 67 areas of activity and 3,100 volunteers already registered.

Celebrate the success

The tremendous achievements of volunteers are celebrated at the County Durham Volunteer Awards, organised by Durham Community Action.

Last year, over 90 nominations were received. Watch out for opportunities to nominate the volunteers you think are exceptional for the 2015 awards during National Volunteers Week in June. Find out more at www.durhamcommunityaction.org.uk or phone 01388 742 040.

So whether you are looking to gain experience volunteering in a certain area; get skills for work; volunteer occasionally; or help at a one-off big event like Lumiere; this centre is your new first port of call. Find out more at www.durhamcommunityaction.org.uk or phone Durham Community Action on 01388 742 040.

Volunteering

Money worries Are your money worries keeping you awake at night? Jenny is worried. All her money disappears on bills and she worries about feeding her family. She had to borrow £50 from doorstep lenders to fix her washer but is struggling to keep up the repayments. She wonders how she can save for the future when she can’t even cover the costs for today. Paul and Sandra argue loads, mainly about money. The car needs fixing but there are no savings to pay. Paul says their only option is an online loan but Sandra is worried about keeping up the high repayments. Does this sound familiar? If you are worried about money and debts you are not alone. More than 50 per cent of UK people would struggle to raise £200 in cash towards the end of the month.

Get help as soon as possible

Get free and impartial advice and support from a range of places.

Managing debt paying off your debts. 4 Visit the Gov.uk website for options for via phone and email. 4 National Debtline offers expert advice 0808 808 4000

and advice to 4 The Money Advice Service provides help 5 5000

manage

your money and deal with debt. 0300 00 ring free and impartial 4 StepChange is a registered charity offe debt advice. 0800 138 1111 phone, by email or 4 PayPlan provide advice on debt over the face-to-face. 0800 280 2816

Financial help › Our Welfare Rights Service can advise you on what benefits

you may be entitled to and how to claim them. 03000 268 9 68 › Our Durham Locate guide holds details of over 120 organisa tions that can provide financial assistance, grants and trusts. www.durhamlocate.org.uk › Budgeting Loans are interest-free loans for those who have claimed incomerelated benefits for 26 weeks or more and can be used to buy essential items such as rent, furniture and clothes. www.gov .uk/budgeting-loans or talk to Jobcentre Plus.

› Turn2Us helps people access the money available to them thro

ugh welfare benefits, and grants. www.turn2us.org.uk 080 8 802 2000 › The Citizen’s Advice Bureau offers independent debt and mon ey advice. Find your local bureau at www.citizensadvice.o rg.uk

› If you are unable to pay for daily essentials such as food or hea

ting and have no other immediate financial assistance, our Welfare Assistance Scheme may be able to help you. www.durham.gov.uk/ welfareassistance

Money worries

Dealing with loan sharks

Loan sharks are unlicensed money lenders who use violence and intimidation to bleed their victims dry financially, charging huge interest rates. If you’ve borrowed money from a loan shark, you haven’t broken the law, they have. You can check if a company is authorised to lend money and report loan sharks anonymously. Telephone: 0300 555 2222 Email: reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk Text: loan(space)shark(space) + your message to 60003

Credit unions can help you save

Local credit unions can help you start to save regularly, even just £1 a week. They can also help you access fair credit, rather than use high cost credit providers like payday lenders. We’re working in partnership with these credit unions and almost 300 staff members have joined. The Prince Bishops Community Bank 01207 232 351 www.princebishopscommunitybank.org.uk NEfirst credit union 0191 375 7677 www.nefirstcu.co.uk/home

Housing problems

If housing is a problem, get advice urgently. Housing Solutions works with you to try and prevent homelessness. Chester-le-Street, Derwentside and East Durham 03000 268 840 Durham, Wear Valley, Sedgefield and The Dales 03000 260 801 Out of hours 01388 722 538

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) are short-term, temporary payments that support tenants who need financial assistance to help meet their housing costs. They are made at our discretion. You need to demonstrate that you are doing everything you can to address the issues affecting you, which might include accommodation issues or debt. Find out more from Housing Solutions (numbers above).

New gas boilers

People on certain benefits or with a lower income who have an inefficient gas boiler may be able to get a free or subsidised new gas boiler. The government scheme is run by Warm up North - a partnership of British Gas and nine local authorities. Warm up North will check if you qualify, check your old boiler, and fit a new ’A’ rated boiler for you. 0800 316 4320 www.warmupnorth.com/freeboiler

Spiralling online debt

A crippling debt to an online loan company left one resident struggling to make ends meet.

Although working full time, Lisa hadn’t heard about credit unions until her company gave staff the chance to save into the Prince Bishops Community Bank through a payroll deduction scheme.

She approached Prince Bishops Community Bank and asked for help to get out of debt.

On taking the online loan, she had signed the standard form to say they could take as much money from her account as they liked. So although she was being paid £1,200 a month, the online loan company immediately took £900 from her salary, meaning she had to borrow more just to pay her bills. She realised she was never going to be debt free. Prince Bishops Community Bank reviewed her costs and gave advice on her finances, then completed a low-cost loan to help her pay off the online company.

Now she is £200 per month better off and also managing to save for the future. Money worries

NEWS Taking action Our Area Action Partnerships have been setting their priorities for the coming year. We have 14 Area Action Partnerships (AAPs) throughout County Durham. They are made up of people who are passionate about their area, including representatives of the council, local organisations, and the key ingredient - local residents themselves.

At this time of year each AAP works out how it can best make life better for people in its area - by setting its priorities. These are the big issues they want to tackle. Each area has its own priorities - but they often have common themes, such as:

3 3

Improving training and employment opportunities.

3 3 3 3

Improving quality of life for older people.

Improving high streets and regenerating towns and villages. Providing activities for young people.

Supporting voluntary and community organisations. Improving health.

Local people, including many young people, helped decide these priorities at a range of events, including voting events, community roadshows, online surveys and through Facebook.

Find out what your AAP’s priorities are at www.durham.gov.uk/AAPs

Digital Durham

Jim Athey of Dyer Engineering.

One year on

In April Digital Durham celebrates one year since the official start of the fibre broadband rollout.

Since its launch, fibre broadband coverage has been extended to 37 communities meaning over 45,000 people can now benefit from a faster and more reliable internet service. County Durham company, Dyer Engineering, was one of the first businesses to maximise the benefits of fibre broadband by expanding their premises.

Jim Athey, Operations Manager, said “Without fibre our expansion would have been impossible to complete. We’ve taken on a 58,000 square foot facility and are increasing our workforce.” Find out more at www.digitaldurham.org

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News

Registered to vote?

All households in County Durham have recently been issued with a letter listing everyone registered at the property. Anyone who is not registered is encouraged to register at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote by Monday 20 April.

Anyone who is listed on the electoral register can request a postal or proxy vote. The deadline for postal vote applications is 5pm on Tuesday 21 April and for proxy vote applications is 5pm Tuesday 28 April.

To request a paper copy of either application form, contact Electoral Services on 03000 261 212 or email electoralservices@durham.gov.uk

Smoking out illegal tobacco

A total of 49,099 illegal cigarettes and over 40kg of illegal hand-rolled tobacco have been seized over the past nine months as we continue our quest to rid County Durham of illicit tobacco.

We carried out raids in twelve suspected illicit tobacco or ‘tab’ houses and six retail premises in towns and villages including Peterlee, Shildon, Newton Aycliﬀe and Bishop Auckland.

The joint Trading Standards and police operations resulted in several convictions. Penalties have included fines, a confiscation order of more than £47,000 and two six-week tagging orders. If you have any information about illegal tobacco, report it in confidence by calling 03000 261 016 or emailing tobacco@durham.gov.uk

Housing transfer Image courtesy of Visit Durham.

The UK Parliamentary General Election will take place on Thursday, 7 May and anyone wishing to vote at this election must be on the electoral register.

Enticing heritage lovers

Our housing stock will transfer to the County Durham Housing Group this spring. 82 per cent of the 22,000 tenants who voted were in favour of the transfer of ownership. Plans are in place for more than £800m of investment over the next 30 years - including building 700 new properties within seven years. www.yourhomeyourchoice.info

Visit County Durham has joined forces with VisitEngland to promote our county’s heritage attractions.

The campaign, which includes advertising on Classic FM and online, showcases Durham’s rich history. Durham is one of a number of destinations to benefit from the activity, which aims to inspire UK residents to holiday at home. It is part of the three-year VisitEngland-led campaign funded by £19.8m from the government’s Regional Growth Fund.

Cracking down

Watch out

County Durham is a safe place to live; help keep it this way. How? By joining the Neighbourhood Watch scheme or by attending your local Police and Communities Together meeting. Find out more about crime prevention at www.durham.gov.uk/ crimeprevention or call Durham Constabulary 101

Our Trading Standards Officers have been investigating Safe Durham Partnership counterfeit luxury items being sold online. This has led to more than 500 items worth more than £10,000 being recovered. New Monitoring social media plus number further intelligence helped our Want to contact our Licensing officers find counterfeit team? sellers who sold bogus luxury goods, including clothing, For queries relating to sports trainers, perfumes entertainment and alcohol licences, and electrical hair styling gambling licences, business and products. street licences and taxi licences, call their new number on If you suspect someone 03000 261 016. sells counterfeit goods, call 03454 04 05 06. News

Health and Wellbeing

Improving dementia care There are currently over 6,000 people with dementia in County Durham. With people living longer, the number of people aged 60 and over with dementia is expected to double by 2030.

Future plans

We’ve worked with partners to make plans for the services we need in the county in the coming years to improve early diagnosis and give the right support to people with dementia, their carers and families. These plans are set out in a threeyear dementia strategy, recently approved by the Health and Wellbeing Board.

Together with our partners, we’re working to create ‘dementia-friendly communities’ where people with dementia enjoy a better quality of life and feel less isolated. The ﬁrst two are planned for Chester-le-Street, where work has already started, and Barnard Castle, which starts this spring. We’re currently working with residents with experience of dementia, businesses and local organisations in Chester-le-Street to ask what would make a dementia-friendly community for them. This could be improved signage in towns and public buildings, dementia friends training for retail and services staff, or the introduction of dementia-friendly coffee mornings.

Health and wellbeing

Challenges

We visited a dementia coffee morning, run by the Alzheimer’s Society in Chester-le-Street, to see what challenges face people living with dementia.

Robin told us: Sometimes I walk into a place and just can’t remember why I am there. I’d been going to the bank for years, but I got to the front of the queue and my mind just went blank and I started to panic. Fortunately they have people who understand and will say ‘do you need a hand with the machines?’ It gives you confidence to carry on doing these jobs.

“

Margaret added that changes in technology are especially challenging.

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It is so hard to remember pin numbers. And when you call telephone automated lines, you have to remember what to press and you don’t get to speak to people.”

“

Maureen added that the coffee mornings are invaluable: “You get lots of useful information, the chance to share experiences, and it’s nice to just chat!

”

Swimming launch

Our county has also been asked to lead the way on a three year national dementia-friendly swimming project.

Working with the Amateur Swimming Association, we’ll be looking at adding dementiafriendly swimming times to our pool timetables and looking at how we can improve the pool environment for people with dementia. For example, better signage or floor markings.

A big part of the work we’re doing is asking people with dementia and their carers what things

What is dementia? Dementia describes a set of symptoms that include memory loss, mood changes, and problems with communication and reasoning.

There are many types of dementia, but the most common are Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

currently make it difficult for them to go swimming and what improvements we can make.

The project, which is funded by a special Department for Health innovation fund, was launched at Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre in February.

We, alongside Manchester City Council, are the first councils in the country to benefit, with six more councils getting funding next year, and a national rollout not scheduled for two more years. If you’d like to be part of the consultation on how our pools can be improved for people with dementia, contact 03000 264 572.

Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse.

What do I do if I’m worried about myself or a family member?

Talk to your GP as soon as possible. It helps you get the right treatments, find the best sources of support, and make decisions about the future.

Where can I get help?

It’s natural to worry about the future, but it’s important to remember you’re not alone. The NHS, social services and voluntary organisations provide advice and support.

One of the first steps to take is to do a social care assessment, find out more about this on www.durhamlocate.org.uk or call Social Care Direct on 03000 26 79 79.

Can I do anything to prevent or delay dementia?

Living a healthy lifestyle, eating well and exercising, is important for everyone, including people with dementia, and is the best way to help prevent dementia. www.nhs.uk/LiveWell

I care for someone with dementia, can I get help?

Caring for and supporting someone with dementia can be stressful and upsetting, as well as rewarding. It’s important you look after your own health and wellbeing, and get support. www.durhamcarers.info contains lots of information.

What can I do to help people with dementia?

Become a dementia friend by understanding a bit more about dementia, and the little ways you can help. www.dementiafriends.org.uk

Where can I find out more? www.dementiauk.org www.alzheimers.org.uk

Health and wellbeing

food waste

nappies

pet waste

Food, pet waste and nappies are common items that are put in the recycling bin by mistake. These items go in your rubbish bin as we cannot recycle them.

Last year we launched our countywide ‘Bin it right’ campaign to help you to understand what items go in which bin, so we can reuse and recycle more of your household waste. Thanks to your help and effort, we currently reuse and recycle 43 per cent of your waste, which is in line with the national average. You can help us achieve our target of 45 per cent by understanding how to ‘Bin it right’.

glass bottles & jars

Glass should always go in your recycling box so we can keep this separate from other recycling.

Recycling assistants tins, cans & aerosols

You may have seen recycling assistants out with our refuse and recycling crews, or you may have received a visit to your home. Their role is to help you to understand which items go in which bin. So far, the team has worked with over 30,000 households to help you to ‘Bin it right’!

plastic bottles & tubs

Easter and May bank holiday bin collections paper, cardboard & cartons

Wash and squash your recycling (where appropriate) and place loose in your blue lidded recycling bin.

Please do not bag your recycling in black sacks as we must be able to see the items inside. 16 Green living

Please put your rubbish or recycling bin out as normal on Good Friday, 3 April. We will be working Good Friday as usual.

Bins will also be collected as normal the week of the May bank holidays (w/c 4 and 25 May).

Find out your collection day by entering your house number and postcode in the ‘My Durham’ section at www.durham.gov.uk

Help us to recycle more

Why does it matte

uses aste in the blue bin ca w e bl cla cy re nno g Puttin tonne of contaminated. Every e m co be to ng cli 00 cy re s us approximately £1 st co ng cli cy re ed at contamin eatment. e of through waste tr os sp di d an t or sp an to tr

We really appreciate your help, but in some areas of the county we’ve spotted that some items are regularly put in recycling bins that shouldn’t be.

When this happens, all the waste in that load gets rejected, including items that could have been recycled. This isn’t good for the environment and costs us more money. You can help us out by making sure you are getting it right. Our map shows which items are put in recycling bins by mistake.

NORTH

Textiles/clothes

EAST

Garden Waste

Wallpaper

General rubbish

SOUTH

These items cannot be recycled at the kerbside but they can be taken to your nearest household waste recycling centre. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc for site locations and opening hours.

Textiles/clothes

Small electrical items

Clothing and textiles can also be donated to clothing charities for reuse. Come and join Litterfree Durham’s

Big Spring Clean 2015 Every day until 18 April there will be litterpicks happening throughout County Durham and Darlington To clean up your village or town

Email: litterfreedurham@durham.gov.uk Call: 03000 266 080 Visit: www.litterfreedurham.org LitterFree DURHAM

Fortnightly collections from the kerbside Garden between spring and autumn waste collections 1 year: £20 / 3 years: £50 Terms and conditions apply.

www.durham.gov.uk/gardenwaste 03000 26 1000

DIY waste Small electrical items

General rubbish

Wood

General rubbish

For further information on how to ‘Bin it right’, including the reuse and recycling A-Z, visit www.durham.gov.uk/whatgoeswhere or call 03000 261 000.

Community groups - would you like more information on reusing and recycling? Email your details to wasteaware@durham.gov.uk to arrange an educational visit.

Household waste recycling centres

From 1 April, household waste recycling centres will stay open longer for the summer months. Check centre opening times at www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

for County Durham

For collections in the Teesdale area, contact Rotters Composting

www.rotters.org 01833 690 022

Green living

HELP US TAKE ON THE FLY-TIPPERS On the trail of

fly-tippers

Nobody likes to see it; a local beauty spot; a quiet back lane; disused waste ground - marred by a pile of dumped rubbish.

Fly-tipping can be dangerous, it pollutes land and waterways and costs you, the tax payer, significant amounts of money to clear away. That’s why we’ve launched Operation Stop It, a joint campaign with Durham Constabulary, Crimestoppers and the Environment Agency to crack down on fly-tipping.

What happens when someone reports fly-tipping? We tracked a call from start to finish.

1. 2.

A customer calls to say she has witnessed fly-tipping. Our customer services officer takes all the details such as the exact location and description of the fly-tipping.

Our Clean and Green team ﬁnd the exact location of the ﬂy-tip, which is often tricky. They will have an initial look for evidence to identify who dumped the items, and if there is none clear it away as soon as possible. If there is evidence, such as mail, personal documents or CCTV cameras, the Neighbourhood Wardens carry out a full investigation.

The evidence the wardens ﬁnd is used by us to make a case for prosecution. Fly-tipping is illegal and offenders can be fined up to £50,000 so we take these investigations very seriously. In December alone we investigated 460 cases.

Our Clean and Green team aims to clean up most fly-tips within 24 hours, although this can take longer if a bigger investigation is needed. The items are taken to the nearest waste transfer station for disposal.

Help us stop fly-tipping

 Check anyone who removes your rubbish is registered with the

Environment Agency by asking to see their waste carrier certificate.

 Take your waste to household waste recycling centres. www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

 Ask us to collect your bulky waste. Charges apply. Call 03000 261 000.

Tackling the fly-tippers

Watch out

We’ve set up extra CCTV cameras at fly-tipping hotspots.

The additional cameras have been provided thanks to funding from local councillors. Footage from CCTV cameras has already led to a number of successful prosecutions. And this success is leading town and parish councils to invest in further extra CCTV too.

Oliver Sherratt, our head of direct services, said: “The footage is very clear and it helps us identify and successfully prosecute those who commit waste crime.”

Watch our video showing flytippers who have been caught on CCTV and prosecuted at www.durham.gov.uk/flytipping

 Report fly-tipping at

www.durham.gov.uk/flytipping or call 03000 261 000 or tell us who via the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Children and young people Useful websites

You can find useful parents’ guides to Google+, Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook at www.connectsafely.org/ safety-tips-advice plus a range of helpful advice on security, dealing with cyber bullying and online safety.

Keeping kids safe online

How can kids stay safe when they are online? What’s the right way to behave and talk to people online?

These were just some of the questions being raised in schools across County Durham as part of Safer Internet Day in February. The day aims to promote positive use of the internet while staying safe.

At Bournmoor Primary School children were encouraged to think before they click through a range of activities and exercises, with younger children looking at the impact of sending unpleasant images and older children focusing on cyber bullying.

Board. Chair of the board, Jane Geraghty, said: “We want to appeal to parents and carers to take a more active involvement in finding out about their child’s online activity.

“We want parents and carers to ask questions like who they are speaking to and what conversations are they having? We also want parents and carers to be confident about restricting E-safety is part of the Erase - tackling child sexual exploitation project that we are involved their child’s access online, if in through Durham Local Safeguarding Children necessary and blocking people.”

For ways you can make the internet safer for your family, check out www.saferinternet.org.uk which has information for parents and a range of games and activities to get young people thinking about online safety.

For information about safeguarding children in County Durham, go to: www.durham-lscb.org.uk Main image: Children at Bournmoor Primary School were joined by Police Community Support Officers Mark Lumsden and Rachel Haddon. Inset: Leon learns about online safety.

Accelerating bike training

We’ve been awarded £20,000 by the Department for Transport to deliver Bikeability sessions to primary school pupils in Year 3. The training is provided in three progressive stages with levels one and two normally delivered to pupils in Years 5 and 6. However the extra funding

means 1,000 children can start at a younger age. Bikeability equips young riders with the skills they need to safely cycle on the roads. More than 20,000 children in County Durham have already benefited since 2009.

Children and young people

NEWS

Pick up a good book

Join our library and choose from 750,000 books, 120 emagazines and 1,100 eBooks and eAudiobooks. With so much choice it’s hard to know where to start, so we asked library staff to recommend books, this time for younger readers. www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

Sally and the Limpet by Simon James Who would have thought a limpet could live on the same rock for fifty years? Sally gets a limpet stuck to her finger. What will she do? This book lifts my mood every time I read it! Jacqueline Lonsdale - Durham Clayport

Aids can help with bathing.

Equipped

with knowledge

Does illness or disability sometimes make life difficult? Having the right aids and equipment can make life much easier, but how do you know what’s right for you? There’s a wide range of aids and equipment available to buy or hire and our Equipment Advice Service can offer you free, impartial information.

The service is available Monday to Thursday 10am-3pm. Call 0191 384 6726 or email equipmentadvice@durham.gov.uk Assess your own equipment needs at www.equip-yourself-durham.org.uk

Loveykins by Quentin Blake Lonely, well-meaning but slightly odd Angela Bowling rescues a baby bird who falls from his nest and into her garden after a particularly stormy night. The inimitable Quentin Blake combines his affection for birds with his wry take on the eccentricities of human nature in this delightful tale. Julie Slater - Durham Clayport

What’s Healthwatch?

Healthwatch can make your views and experiences known to those who plan and regulate health and social care services. After all, your views can help make services better. So if you have something you’d like to say about the health and social care you have received in County Durham, call 01325 375 960, email info@healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk or visit www.healthwatchcountydurham.co.uk

Pavement parking

Partially sighted and blind people, parents with pushchairs, and disabled people are being pushed into walking in busy roads. Why? Because of pavement parking. Pulling your car up onto the pavement is dangerous for all pedestrians, but especially for those with sight loss who are forced into traffic they can’t see. National charity Guide Dogs is asking you to think before you pavement park. www.guidedogs.org.uk

News

Do you know someone who has, or needs, care services and is being neglected or abused?

See it, Report it! 03000 26 79 79 Working with The Safe Durham Partnership

SOUTH and WEST Durham Get outdoors and get sporty

Make the most of your local park and get fit with friends and family.

Parklife is running Go Play events this Easter. With everything from rounders to tennis, there’s something to suit all ages.

Hitachi Rail carriage building moves closer

Three key milestones have been met as Hitachi Rail Europe counts down the days to production starting at its rail vehicle manufacturing facility in Newton Aycliffe.

In January a state-of-the-art training carriage was shipped from Japan to South West Durham Training in the town. While in February, Hitachi Rail Europe hosted recruitment events in Newton Aycliffe for job openings in 2015. The jobs cover a range of disciplines, including materials handling, engineering, design, procurement, human resources and finance. In addition, the doors to the £82m manufacturing plant were opened to schools and the public in early March, with over one hundred people welcomed on site.

Hitachi Rail Europe has been awarded contracts to supply almost 900 rail carriages as part of the £5.7bn Department of Transport’s Intercity Express Programme, and will create 730 jobs in County Durham. It’s not too late to apply for a job. All vacancies are advertised on the Hitachi careers website www.hitachirail-eu.com/careers

For more information visit www.durham.gov.uk/parklife

Go Play (FREE) Easter programme is taking place 1pm-4pm at the following venues: • 8 April at Hackworth Park (Shildon) • 9 April at Glenholme Park (Crook) • 10 April at Bishop Town Rec Park (Bishop Auckland)

Teesdale drop-in advice sessions

Bringing home the trophies

County Durham kurling teams who swept the board in 2014 are hoping to repeat their success this year. Between them, Wear Valley Kurling who practices at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, and BLIND Life in Durham and Fishburn (pictured), brought home an impressive eight winners’ trophies from national competitions. New age or indoor kurling is based on the traditional ice curling, but as it is played in a sports hall and the kurl is adapted from a discus, feet are kept firmly on dry land. Wear Valley team member Beverley Thomas said: “It’s a really enjoyable sport that anyone can get involved in.” To find out more, visit www.gbkurling.co.uk

Parklife’s spring programme is launching weekly in April, offering an exciting range of sporting activities for the whole family, including football, table tennis, tennis, archery, couch to 2.5k and girls only activities #thisgirlcan

For advice on council services, including council tax, housing benefit, concessionary travel and street lighting call in to one of our drop-in sessions on Thursday 23 April or Thursday 21 May.

• • •

UTASS (Upper Teesdale Agriculture Support Services Ltd) 9-11 Chapel Row, Middleton-inTeesdale 10.30am-11.30am Randolph Centre, Evenwood 12 noon-1pm

Butterknowle Village Hall, Butterknowle 1.45pm-2.45pm

South and West Durham News

NORTH Durham A Hive of activity

Residents can improve basic skills and access a wide range of activities at Catchgate Learning Hive.

The Learning Hive offers everything from maths, English and basic IT to home budgeting and help to understand your finances, as well as healthy eating and arts and crafts sessions. For more details contact 01207 294 057.

Club’s future secured

A cash injection is helping to support a club’s quest to be bigger and better than ever.

The New Quest Club, a place for adults with learning disabilities and their carers to take part in activities, socialise or simply enjoy a night out, has received a boost of £6,200 from Stanley Area Action Partnership. Based at the St Stephen’s Centre, South Stanley and run by volunteers, the club will use the money to pay for rent, buy new equipment and provide more entertainment opportunities such as games nights and discos. For further details contact St Stephen’s Centre 01207 299 951.

North Durham News

Coming soon…

Consett Academy and Leisure Centre

An exciting brand new facility in Consett will be opening later this year. The new joint Consett Academy and Consett Leisure Centre will be a great new community resource.

As well as giving 1,700 students new state-of-the-art learning facilities, the shared leisure centre is packed with great features which can be enjoyed by the community.

Cllr Maria Plews, our cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning said: “With two pools, splash and slide water features, dance studios, fitness suite, squash courts, a sports hall plus outside multi-games areas, an AstroTurf football and rugby pitch, there’s something for everyone.”

Our cabinet member for children and young people’s services, Cllr Ossie Johnson said: “County Durham is leading the way with this £44 million project. Consett will have an amazing learning facility for children and a brand new leisure centre, which can be used both by the students and the wider community.”

Take a sneak peek at the building, watch a flythrough and find out more at www.durham.gov.uk/Consettacademyandleisurecentre

IT training

for the over 50s

If you’re over 50 and looking to learn your way around the web, there’s a training course for you. With support of over £5,000 from Stanley Area Action Partnership, Age UK County Durham’s Stanley Resource Centre is now equipped with the latest facilities to help local people become online savvy. Sessions will also include mobile phone training. For more information contact 01207 280 119.

Friends of Riverside Park Do you have any new ideas for Riverside Park or would like to be involved in its future? Chester-le-Street Area Action Partnership is keen to hear from anyone interested in joining the Friends of Riverside Park group. Get in touch on 03000 266 144.

CENTRAL and EAST Durham Pier restoration

Tackling hate crime

Work to restore Seaham Harbour’s historic North Pier has recommenced following the winter break.

A community group that supports victims of hate crime is looking for volunteers.

Community Hands, based at Bowburn Community Centre, hopes that with more people on board it can expand its service across the county. The service is run entirely by volunteers. It is funded by Durham Constabulary and supported by Ron Hogg, the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner.

The £3.4m project started in July 2014 to protect the town against coastal deterioration by stopping storm waves penetrating the harbour. It is expected to be complete by November this year. For more information, visit www.durham.gov.uk/ seahampier

A creative way to stop dog fouling

Budding artists from Blackhall Colliery Primary School have put pen to paper to help stop dog fouling in their village.

Monk Hesleden Parish Council, together with the Dogs Trust Darlington, asked Year 5 and 6 children to design posters to deter persistent offenders, with the winning entry displayed on banners in the local area.

Volunteers must be aged over 18 and will be vetted by the police, who also help with training. All expenses are paid. If you’d like to help, or be helped, visit www.durham-pcc.gov.uk and search for Community Hands.

Just do it!

A friendly running club is looking for new members at all levels. Based out of Peterlee Pavilion the club meets every Monday at 6.30pm. Cost is £2 per session. For more information search ‘Run Peterlee’ on Facebook or Twitter.

Nature at its best

Residents can enjoy a great day out at a spruced up wetlands thanks to a local volunteer group.

With support from the County Durham Community Foundation and help from The Prince’s Trust, two years ago the Langley Park Environment Group took on the task of improving the village’s wetlands, including clearing and planting over an acre of land to create a wild flower meadow. It also now has an orchard, wooden animal sculptures and a picnic area. To get involved in the group, contact 0191 373 2843.

Charity reaches a milestone

Communicare charity is celebrating its 40th birthday this year by hosting a tea party for past and present users, staff and volunteers. The charity provides accessible transport for the over 50s and/or disabled people in East Durham.

If you are interested in joining the celebrations on 14 June at Blackhall Community Centre, contact 0191 587 2883 - Monday to Friday 9am to 12 noon. Central and East Durham News

Discover

SEDGEFIELD Fancy a flutter on the horses, a mooch around the market, or to tiptoe on the trail of a Gruffalo? Then head to Sedgefield.

Into the deep dark woods There’s no such thing as a Gruffalo! Or is there? Visit Hardwick Park, follow the beautifully carved wooden clues and you might spot our eight foot tall Gruffalo made from willow.

Historic parkland Now Grade II* listed, Hardwick Park was created in the 18th century by the leading architect of his time John Paine. He created ornamental buildings, ruins, lakes and woodland, which looked like they had always been part of the landscape. Even the serpentine was created to look like a river flowing through the park. Now a Visit England accredited attraction, you can stroll around admiring the lake, woodland and wildlife, learn the park’s history at the visitor centre and get a bite to eat at the Tower Café. Plus a packed agenda of activities for adults and children too. 01740 621 505, www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark

Hardwick Hall Hotel

Hardwick Park

dinner, bed and breakfast at Hardwick Hall

Enjoy an evening of luxury with dinner, bed and breakfast for two at the Best Western Hardwick Hall hotel in Sedgefield. Terms and conditions apply. For the chance to win, just tell us how many acres of parkland it stands in.

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Name ....................................................

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Address ................................................. ..............................................................

Postcode ...............................................

Email ..................................................... See page 2 for entry details.

Out and about

Four star luxury Hardwick Hall is one of the most beautifully situated country house hotels in the North East. Dating back to the 13th century, it stands in 120 acres of superb English parkland. Throughout the year it hosts party nights, comedy shows, dances, seasonal celebrations, as well as the popular Hardwick Live Festival. 01740 620 253, www.hardwickhallhotel.co.uk

Sedgefield Racecourse

Blooming lovely Now a three-time Britain in Bloom gold winner, Sedgefield is certainly blooming lovely. With its bustling shops, tea shops and restaurants (good enough even for American presidents!) the small town sits charmingly round its green. St Edmund’s church was built between 1246 and 1256 and contains some fine brasses and 17th century woodwork. Sedgefield has held its market charter for over 700 years and a farmers market is still held on the first Sunday of the month, on the village green, from 8.30am to 12.30pm. Sedgefield Show, a traditional celebration of agriculture and country life, has been held by Sedgefield and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society for 161 years. It is held on the second Saturday of August.

Also in the south of the county:

East Park

Sedgefield

Binchester Roman Fort - get an insight into what life was like for the Romans in what was once the largest Roman Fort in County Durham. Just north of Bishop Auckland. Open Easter until October. 01388 663 089, www.durham.gov.uk/binchester Locomotion - The National Rail Museum at Shildon: See historically significant railway vehicles and enjoy interactive displays, plus 40 events per year. 01388 777 999, www.nrm.org.uk Bishop Middleham Quarry -

A large magnesian limestone quarry, home to internationally rare orchids and a great place to spot butterflies, including Northern Brown Argus butterfly. 1⁄2 mile north of Bishop Middleham Village. www.durhamwt.com

Coxhoe Quarry Wood - See 300 year old beech trees, dingy skipper butterflies, hedgehogs and stoats and up to seven species of orchid. Coxhoe Hall, now demolished, adjoined this site and is famous for being the birth place of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. www.durham.gov.uk

Jump to it Hosting 20 jump race meetings, spanning 10 months of the year, Sedgefield Racecourse is one of Britain’s most popular small racecourses. 01740 621 925, www.sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk

Wingate Quarry Local Nature Reserve - A site of special scientific interest with over 34 species of wildflowers and ponds providing homes for dragonflies and amphibians, including great crested newts. www.durham.gov.uk

Out and about

N IO R P S ING INTO ACT

Dust off the winter cobwebs and put a spring in your step.

Buds are blooming into life, baby animals are beginning to take their first tentative steps into the County Durham countryside, and now it’s time to do the same. With a range of events, activities and walks to enjoy, there is something to entice everyone out of hibernation this spring.

Walking is the perfect exercise to get active, feel better and meet new friends. With Walk4life day taking place in March, why not be inspired to join in one of the programme’s free short-led weekly walks?

Our leisure centres have lots going on. From aqualearn swimming programmes to superb gym facilities and a wide variety of fitness classes, there’s an activity to suit all ages and abilities. Take Spennymoor Leisure Centre, here you can have a fun day out using the wave, splash and slide pool. This Easter we have a huge range of sporting activities for 0-16 year olds. Our School’s Out Easter programme will keep children busy during the school holidays. Check out what’s on offer at your local centre www.durham.gov.uk/leisurecentres

Out and about

Our latest guided walks programme has just been published. From short walks to long hikes, there’s something for everyone www.durham.gov.uk/article/3596/ Countryside-events-and-guided-walks

Fun at the farm

Discover the countryside

Fitness for all the family

New walking guide

There are 25 walking groups to enjoy, including walks along the beautiful Durham coastline in Easington and the rolling hills of Middleton-in Teesdale. Find details of your nearest walks at www.durham.gov.uk/walk4life

Pedal to health Do you lack the confidence to cycle on your own? Are you interested in adults’ beginner cycling sessions? Would you like to join a weekly adult recreational cycling group? Find out more information on 03000 266 555, www.durham.gov.uk/cyclingevents

Experience a great family day out at one of the county’s fabulous farms. Spring is the perfect time to meet the animals and their babies, and enjoy the farms’ other activities too. At Tweddle Farm, Blackhall, you can enjoy tractor rides, crazy golf, pedal go-karts and play areas that little ones will love. The farm also has plenty of picnic spots and a tea room. Visit this Easter (28 March to 12 April) for some egg-citing events. Children can delight in hunting for Easter eggs, cluck over the Easter chicks and bottle feed the baby lambs. A £6.50, C £5.50, F £22. 0191 586 3311, www.tweddlefarm.co.uk

a family pass to Tweddle Farm

We’ve teamed up with Tweddle Farm to offer you a fun-filled day out. We’ve got two family passes to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, just tell us what type of farm vehicle you can take a ride on? ..............................................................

Name ....................................................

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Address ................................................. ..............................................................

Postcode ...............................................

Email ..................................................... See page 2 for entry details.

EASTER TREATS

There are some cracking fun-filled events on offer to make this a hoppy Easter! Thursday 2, Friday 3 and Sunday 5 to Tuesday 7 April Easter at Crook Hall Crook Hall and Gardens, Durham Meet the Easter Bunny and take part in an Easter egg hunt and games. 10am-5pm. A £7, Con £6.50, C £5. www.crookhallgardens.co.uk

Easter Treasure Hunt, Raby Castle. Image courtesy of Visit Durham.

Saturday 4 to Monday 6 April Easter Treasure Hunt Raby Castle, Staindrop Follow the clues around the garden to find a tasty treat at the end, also includes games and crafts. 11am-5pm. Normal admission to park and gardens. 01833 660 202, www.rabycastle.com

Wednesday 1 to Thursday 2 April Eggscellent Easter Crafts The Bowes Museum Get into the Easter spirit with some eggscellent crafts. Booking required. 10.30am12 noon or 1pm-2.30pm. A free, C£4. 01833 690 606, www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Sunday 5 to Monday 6 April Easter Chick Hunt Botanic Garden See how many Easter chicks you can spot at this family-fun event. 10am-4pm. www.durham.ac.uk/whatson Monday 6 April Easter Extravaganza Bowlees Visitor Centre, Teesdale A day of Easter-related fun includes Easter egg hunt, craft activities, face painting and mask making. 11am-3pm. A free, C £3. www.northpennines.org.uk Tuesday 7, Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 April Easter Fun Durham Cathedral Lots of Easterthemed fun events and craft activities are on offer, including an Easter egg hunt. There’s also the chance to add your own brick to Durham Cathedral in LEGO for just £1. Over 120,000 bricks have now been added to this incredible model, which will contain 350,000 LEGO bricks when complete. Donations go towards transforming public access to some of the Cathedral’s most spectacular spaces and collections. www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Price key: A = Adult; Con = Concession; C = Child; F = Family.

Image courtesy of Visit Durham.

a family pass for The Bowes Museum

Housed in a magnificent French chateau, The Bowes Museum is a lovely day out for everyone. Permanent collections are complemented by exhibitions as diverse as Goya, Vivienne Westwood and Yves Saint Laurent. Its iconic silver swan plays every day at 2pm. To be in with a chance of winning a family pass and £15 to spend in Café Bowes, tell us what metal the swan is made from. .......................................................................................... Name ................................................................................

Tel...................................................................................... Address ............................................................................. ..........................................................................................

Postcode ...........................................................................

Email ................................................................................. See page 2 for entry details. Return by Friday 24 April. Tick this to receive further information: q

What’s On

WHAT’S ON Thursdays and Sundays Old Durham Gardens Behind Maiden Castle, Durham The 17th century restored gardens provide a charming space and can be reached through a number of pleasant walks. Volunteers welcome. Walled garden 2pm-4pm. www.olddurhamgardens.co.uk Running until 10 April Generation Noise by Owl Project The DLI Museum and Art Gallery Don’t miss your chance to see this fantastic family-friendly exhibition before it closes. Admission charges apply. 03000 266 590, www.dlidurham.org

Saturday 21 March The Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Church of Ascension, Easington Concert presented by Easington Colliery Heritage Group to raise funds for the church. 7pm-9pm. £5. Purchase tickets from church hall Fridays 10am-12 noon. Saturday 21 March Model Railway Exhibition Youth Centre, Burn Lane, Newton Aycliffe Calling all model train enthusiasts! The Rotary Club of Newton Aycliffe is raising funds for the Heel and Toe charity with its event, which has over 17 layouts. Trade stands and preservation societies also present. 10am-5pm. A £4, Con £3, C 50p.

What’s On

March to May

Sunday 22 March Lambing Sunday East Durham College, Houghall Campus, Durham Spring is in the air and lambs are on their way. Come and meet the newest arrivals. There’s lots of other things to see and do too. 11am-3pm. A £1.50, C £1. 0191 518 8291, www.eastdurham.ac.uk Saturday 28 March A Journey Through Teesdale Mini Golf Course, Scar Top, Barnard Castle It’s the start of mini golf season. Open every weekend to Sunday 1 November and during school holidays.10.30am. £2 per round. www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk Saturday 28 March Craft a Noon Great Lumley Community Centre Spend an afternoon browsing local craft stalls courtesy of Craft a Noon and the Great Lumley Festival. There’s also face painting and activities to keep little ones entertained. 12.30pm-4pm. Facebook: Craft a Noon Saturdays 28 March, 25 April, 30 May Antiques Fair Red Lion, Front St, Chester-le-Street Antiques enthusiast Brian Fairless brings a varied selection of items including silver, china, pottery, clocks, coins and angling. 9am-3.30pm. 50p. Tuesday 31 March to Saturday 2 May Fish Art Block, 74 Church St, Seaham Exhibition celebrating the connection between East Durham and the sea, and exploring the different aspects and associations of fish. Open Tue to Sat. 11am-3pm. Free. 0191 649 9431, www.edan.org.uk

Wednesday 1 April 2015 Season starts Killhope Lead Mining Museum There’s always something to see and do at Killhope. Find out what’s on oﬀer and see upcoming events www.killhope.org.uk Thursday 2 April Springtime, My Delight Community Hall, Sherburn Village National demonstrator Vivien Bolton brings the sweet smell of spring to Durham Flower Club. 2pm. Meetings also on 14 May and 4 June. £4. 0191 383 0577. Friday 3 to Saturday 4 April Designer Makers Market The Witham A two-day event, showcasing some of the very best designers and craftspeople from around the region. 10am-4pm. Free. www.thewitham.org.uk Saturday 4 April Knit and Natter Bishop Auckland Town Hall If you enjoy a natter while you knit, this group is the place for you. Beginners welcome. First Saturday of each month. 10am-12 noon. Free. 03000 269 524, www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk Tuesday 7 to Wednesday 8 April Behind the Scenes - Conservation The Bowes Museum See how conservators look after and care for special artefacts in this fun and interactive drop-in workshop. 10.30am-3.30pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult for whom normal admission applies. 01933 690 606, www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Price key: A = Adult; Con = Concession; C = Child; F = Family.

Wednesday 8 April Jimmy Webb - An Evening of Songs & Stories Gala Theatre, Durham The legendary songwriter gives an insider’s perspective on the swinging sixties, the Rat Pack, the London mod scene and more. 7.30pm. £17.50. 03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 11 and 25 April Black Grouse Morning Moor House Nature Reserve, Teesdale A chance to see the rare black grouse lekking and enjoy a full English breakfast and presentation. Meet at Langdon Beck. 5am-9am. £20. Booking essential. 01833 622 374.

Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 April Great North Steam Fair Beamish Museum A must for steam and transport lovers alike. See visiting vehicles and the museum’s own transport on show and in action. Entry included in museum admission charge. www.beamish.org.uk

Thursday 16 April NT Live present: The Hard Problem Gala Theatre, Durham Acclaimed playwright Tom Stoppard returns to the National Theatre. Broadcast live to the big screen. 7pm. £15, Con £13, Gala friends £10. 03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk

Thursday 9 to Friday 10 April Jesus Christ Superstar Durham Cathedral The CIC Theatre Group performs this classic rock opera. Doors 7pm, performance 7.30pm. £15. 01740 655 437, www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Saturday 18 April Milkshake Live Empire Theatre, Consett Channel 5’s hugely popular children’s TV show brings a brand new musical extravaganza with a stellar line-up including Little Princess, Bananas in Pyjamas and Noddy. 1pm & 3.30pm. A £12, Con £10, F £42. 01207 218 171, www.leisureworks.net

Saturday 11 April Spring Tea and Tour Durham Castle Enjoy a castle tour followed by tea and cake in the castle’s Senate suite. 11.30am & 1.30pm. Admission fees apply. 0191 334 2932. Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Gala Theatre, Durham Embark on an exciting new mission with these quirky underwater adventure heroes. This brand new stage show stars Captain Barnacles, Kwazii and Peso. (Sat) 1pm & 4pm, (Sun) 10am & 1pm. £15.50, Under 16s £13.50, F £54. 03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk

family tickets

We’re giving away two family tickets for the performance on Sunday 12 April at 10am. Tell us the name of the captain: .......................................................... Name ...............................................

Tel .....................................................

Address ............................................ ..........................................................

Postcode ...............................................

Email ..................................................... See page 2 for entry details. Return by Thursday 2 April. Tick this to receive further information: q

Price key: A = Adult; Con = Concession; C = Child; F = Family.

Saturday 18 April The Mighty Wurlitzer New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear The North East Theatre Organ Association presents Robert Tapsfield. 7pm. £7. 01388 762 467, www.netoa.org.uk

Concert tickets

Experience the unique musical traditions of the pipe organ. For the chance to win two tickets to the Robert Tapsfield concert, tell us what type of instrument the Wurlitzer is. .............................................................. Name ....................................................

Tel..........................................................

Address ................................................. ..............................................................

Postcode ...............................................

Email ..................................................... See page 2 for entry details. Return by Tuesday 7 April.

Sunday 19 April Nature Craft Killhope Lead Mining Museum Make a bug house, butterfly feeder and other fun nature crafts. 1.30pm. C £4 in addition to normal admission price. www.killhope.org.uk Tuesday 21 April Stargazing for Beginners Edmundbyers Village Hall John Lynch from Sunderland Astronomical Society will teach you how to get started and what to look for. 7pm-9pm. A £5, C Free. 01388 528 801, www.northpennines.org.uk Wednesday 22 April Road to Discovery Lanchester Community Centre Flower expert Heather Curry takes the reigns at this month’s Lanchester Flower Club. 2pm.

What’s On

WHAT’S ON Thursday 23 April Tom Stade - Decisions Decisions Gala Theatre, Durham Catch this exuberant and spellbinding talent as he continues his assault on the global comedy scene. £16. 8pm. 03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk Saturday 25 April Deadly Durham the Musical Alun Armstrong Theatre, Civic Hall, Stanley Horrible Histories author Terry Deary takes a quirky look at Durham’s grim and gruesome history. 2pm & 7pm. A £10, Con £8. 01207 299 100, www.civichallstanley.co.uk

Friday 8 May ‘80s Disco Blackhall Photo: John Attle Community Centre Fancy dress optional at this ‘80s-themed night. 7pm-11pm. A £3. 0191 5867 396.

Wednesday 29 April Jazz Season: Djangologie The Witham The North East’s premier Gypsy Jazz quartet, Djangologie continue to draw, thrill and entertain everincreasing audiences. 7.30pm. A £10, Con £8. www.thewitham.org.uk

Saturday 9 May The Simon and Garfunkel Story Empire Theatre, Consett Direct from its success in London’s West End, The Simon and Garfunkel Story is back on the road. 7.30pm. A £18, Con £16.50. 01207 218 171, www.leisureworks.net

Friday 1, Sunday 3 and Monday 4 May Pirates and Princesses Crook Hall and Gardens, Durham Why are pirates cool? Because they AAARRR! Come along and join in the adventures. 10am-3pm. A £7, Con £6.50, C £5. www.crookhallgardens.co.uk Monday 4 May Japanese Boys’ Day Festival Oriental Museum Spectacular display of traditional Japanese archery. 1pm-3pm. www.durham.ac.uk/whatson Tuesday 5 May to Tuesday 23 June EDAN Art Block, 74 Church St, Seaham A mix of art work in different media showing the range of talent from new and associate members of EDAN. Open Tue to Sat. 11am-3pm. Free. 0191 649 9431, www.edan.org.uk

What’s On

Saturday 9 May Choral Concert Durham Cathedral Durham Choral Society presents Dvorak Stabat Mater. 7.30pm. £18, Con available. Gala Theatre Box Office 03000 266 600. Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 May Hello Dolly Park View Theatre, Chester-le-Street Riverside Musical Theatre Company presents the story of meddlesome matchmaker Dolly Levi in this Broadway classic. 7.15pm. £10. 0191 385 7500, www.rmtc.ticketsource.co.uk

Saturday 9 May Yesterday Belongs to You New College, Durham County Durham History and Heritage Forum’s history and heritage fair. 10am-4pm. A £1.50, Under 18s Free. 01740 630 736. Saturday 9 May Basic Jewellery-Making Workshop Bowlees Visitor Centre, Teesdale Join expert jewellery-maker Kathryn Guy and get creative. No experience necessary. 10.30am-4pm. £45 includes lunch and materials. Booking essential. 01833 622 145, www.northpennines.org.uk

Hello Dolly tickets

We’re giving away four pairs of tickets. Tell us Dolly’s surname:

..............................................................

Name ....................................................

Tel..........................................................

Address ................................................. ..............................................................

Postcode ...............................................

Email ..................................................... See page 2 for entry details. Return by Friday 10 April. Tick this to receive further information: q

Price key: A = Adult; Con = Concession; C = Child; F = Family.

Wednesday 13 May Historical Displays County Hall, Durham Displays from a variety of local historical organisations, including successful postcard collector George Nairn. 7pm following Record Office Friends AGM. Free. Saturday 16 May Railitzer featuring Len Rawle New Victoria Centre, Howden-leWear A railway-themed event celebrating the Crook and Weardale railway heritage in mighty Wurlitzer music, films and photos. 7pm. £7. 01388 762 467, www.netoa.org.uk Saturday 16 May Museums at Night Beamish Museum Enjoy an evening of Edwardian music, entertainment, food and fun. 6pm-9pm. Ticketed event. www.beamish.org.uk Saturday 16 to Sunday 17 May Marvellous Mosaics Palace Green Library, Durham The Romans were famed for their mosaics. Design your own paper version. 1pm-3pm. www.durham.ac.uk/whatson

Monday 18 May Spring birds Moor House Nature Reserve, Teesdale See some wonderful acrobatic displays and possibly some chicks. Bring binoculars if you have them. Meet at Widdybank Farm gate. 10am–1pm. Free (donations welcome). Booking essential. 01833 622 374. Monday 18 to Sunday 31 May Korean Cultural Festival Oriental Museum A celebration of Korean culture including music, crafts and food. See website for individual events www.durham.ac.uk/whatson Sunday 24 May Flower Power Plant and Gift Fair Raby Castle, Staindrop The fair features award-winning nurseries, has hundreds of plants on sale, and includes local craft and food stalls. 11am-4pm. Admission to fair and gardens A£5, C Free. 01833 660 202, www.rabycastle.com

Sunday 17 May Rainbow Run Hamsterley Forest Registration 10am-10.45am. This colourful 5k run in aid of Butterwick Hospice is all about fun, especially once you get to the ‘rainbow’ finish line. Free t-shirt. A £15, 11-16yrs £10, Under 10s free. 01388 660 644, www.butterwick.org.uk/rainbowrace2015

Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May Meccano Magic Locomotion, The National Railway Museum, Shildon A celebration of the traditional toy for little builders. Ride the passenger steam service and see displays old and new. Come and marvel at the magic of all things Meccano. 10am-5pm. Admission and car parking Free. 01388 771 439.

Sunday 17 May Low Tide Day Seaham Hall Beach Carpark Bring a bucket and spade and start with a rockpool ramble at 10.30am, followed by Punch and Judy, crafts and circus skills. 10.30am-3pm. Free. www.durhamheritagecoast.org

Tuesday 26 May River Ecology Killhope Lead Mining Museum Mess about on the river making dams and finding river beasties. 1.30pm. C £3 in addition to normal admission price. www.killhope.org.uk

Price key: A = Adult; Con = Concession; C = Child; F = Family.

Wednesday 27 May Busy Bees and Funky Flowers Bowlees Visitor Centre, Teesdale Find out why bees are so important, follow the bee puzzle trail, taste some delicious local honey and make some bees and flowers to take home. Family drop-in day. 11am-4pm. A Free, C £3. 01833 622 145, www.northpennines.org.uk Thursday 28 to Sunday 31 May Georgian Fair Beamish Museum Roll up, roll up! Enjoy the wonders of this traditional country fair, from extraordinary entertainers and amazing animals to traditional crafts, games, stalls and fine food. Entry included in museum admission charge. www.beamish.org.uk Friday 29 May Fantastic Fans The Bowes Museum See some amazing textile fans before designing your own paper fan during this drop-in session. 10.30am-3.30pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult for whom normal admission applies. 01833 690 606, www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Saturday 30 May Dietrich Letters - A Tribute to Marlene Dietrich Empire Theatre, Consett Combining sumptuous, rich and tender vocals with intense, touchable emotion, Marina Laslo takes on the music Marlene made famous. 7.30pm. A £19.50, Con £17.50. 01207 218 171, www.leisureworks.net Saturday 30 May Family Theatre: Red Riding Hood The Witham The classic Brothers’ Grimm traditional tale re-told through puppetry, animation and live action. 1.30pm. A £7, C £5, F £20. www.thewitham.org.uk

What’s On

Care and support is changingâ&#x20AC;Ś From April 2015, care and support in England is changing. The new Care Act will help make care and support more consistent across the country. Care and support is the term used to describe help for adults of all ages with things like washing, dressing, eating, getting out and about, emotional support and keeping in touch with friends or family. The new changes will help you plan for your future and put you more in control of the help you receive. Any decisions about your care and support will consider your wellbeing and what is important to you and your family, helping you to keep healthy and stay independent for longer. If you receive care and support, or you support someone as a carer you could benefit from the changes. To find out more about care and support visit: www.durham.gov.uk/careact