DCC Durham County News Winter 2019

Winter 2019

www.durham.gov.uk

Festive fun

Christmas events and activities Towns and villages

Investing in our communities Winter services

Top tips to stay safe and well

Lumiere 2019

Welcome

to the winter edition of Durham County News Our fantastic Year of Culture and its line-up of events may be coming to an end but one of the county’s favourites is yet to come. On pages 15 to 18 we focus on the return of the amazing Lumiere light festival, which is sure to brighten up the dark winter nights.

This year’s special tenth anniversary edition of Lumiere will bring back some of the most popular artworks from previous festivals, as well as several new stunning light installations.

Councillor Katie Corrigan, Chairman of the Council

As the weather turns colder, it’s important to look after yourself and others, and on page 9 there’s a range of advice to help you stay warm and well.

This edition also includes some great tips for making new friends, improving your health and fitness or learning a new skill in 2020, with our New Year, New You feature on page 23.

As we look forward to the fun and festivities of Christmas in this issue, I’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.

Cllr Katie Corrigan

Inside...

Pages 4-7 News

Pages 10-13 Guide to Christmas

Pages 15-18 Lumiere 2019 Pages 8-9 Winter services

Pages 14 and 19 Green living

Pages 20-21 Towns and villages Page 23 Health and wellbeing

Pages 24-30 What’s on this winter

great prizes in our competitions...

Enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn. Or write the answer, along with your name, address, telephone number and email on a piece of paper. Pop your entries into one envelope (don’t forget the stamp) and post to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall DH1 5UF, or drop them into reception at any of our customer access points.

Entries close on Thursday 28 November (unless otherwise stated).

Front cover: CLOUD, by Caitlind r.c. Brown & Wayne Garrett, at Lumiere Durham 2015. Produced by Artichoke. Photo by Matthew Andrews.

If you live in the Durham County Council area and haven’t received a copy of Durham County News at your home address, please contact us.

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

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

Record numbers experience Durham’s Year of Culture

This year has seen an unprecedented number of cultural and sporting events and activities across County Durham, leading to 2019 being branded our Year of Culture.

Tens of thousands of people have flocked to events across the county, boosting the local economy and raising the area’s profile regionally, nationally and even further afield.

Around 29,000 people attended Bishop Auckland Food Festival, while almost 15,000 headed to the first ever Seaham Food Festival to celebrate the region’s tastiest produce.

There was plenty for sports fans and adrenaline junkies too. Durham Adventure Festival attracted thousands of people to the city and further excitement followed with the Tour Series cycle race. An estimated 70,000 visitors, including pop star

Rihanna, watched ICC Cricket World Cup matches at Chester-le-Street. A further 27,000 visited a fanzone in Durham City, while 3,000 took on the heat and hills in the 10k and 5k races which kicked off the Durham City Run Festival.

A host of famous faces entertained at Durham Book Festival and more than 40,000 people experienced Durham BRASS festival, which included free outdoor performances and ticketed events coinciding with the city’s famous Miners’ Gala.

Events marking Chinese New Year, 50 years of town-twinning between the county and Tübingen in Germany, and five decades of Peterlee’s Apollo Pavilion also drew in the crowds.

And there’s still more to come, including further exhibitions celebrating the centenary of artist Norman Cornish’s birth (see page 5) and the UK’s largest light festival, Lumiere (find out more on pages 15-18).

Next year, 2020, has been designated as Durham’s Year of Pilgrimage, with events and activities set to take place across the county and wider region.

At the centre of the celebrations will be the launch of new walking trails across the North East. The Northern Saints Trails will promote the region’s Christian heritage but will also appeal to those of other faiths, as well as people looking for their own personal spirituality or peace and tranquillity. Durham Cathedral will be at the centre of the trails, recognising its role as a destination for pilgrims. Find out more at www.northernsaints.com

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News

Contact us:

Visit our website to use online services 24 hours a day 7 days a week www.durham.gov.uk/ doitonline 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.

For social care and independent living enquiries or adult and children’s welfare issues: Social Care Direct/Children’s First Contact Service

03000 26 79 79 @DurhamCouncil /durhamcouncil linkedin.com/company/ durham-county-council /DurhamCouncil /durham_county_council Please ask us if you would like this document summarised in another language or format.

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durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk 03000 268 059

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Chinese New Year A day of celebrations will welcome in the Chinese Year of the Rat in 2020.

The family-friendly events to mark the Chinese New Year will take place in Durham City on Saturday 1 February between 10.30am and 4pm.

Visitors will be able to follow a lion parade through the city centre, try their hand at arts and crafts or call into Durham Town Hall where they will discover traditional Chinese costumes, Tai Chi, dance and other activities.

Visit www.durham.gov.uk/chinesenewyear to find out more.

Media centre opens its doors A new multi-millionpound digital media centre has opened its doors at a Durham college.

Our building and facilities maintenance service was responsible for the construction and fit-out of the £3.4 million project at Durham Sixth Form Centre.

The new state-of-the-art facility includes a high-tech IT hub; a multimedia room; TV studio; cinema; conference and events room and 13 classrooms.

Students can enjoy a new games room and have a bite to eat in the café.

Sixty-three highly skilled workers and 13 local sub-contractors worked round the clock to ensure the project was completed on time for the beginning of the new term, despite meeting some challenging ground conditions, weather conditions and logistical issues.

News

Norman Cornish centenary celebrations Two new exhibitions will mark the end of a year of events celebrating what would have been the 100th birthday of County Durham artist Norman Cornish.

Norman Cornish – The Sketchbooks Palace Green Library, Durham University Cornish’s sketchbooks contain a wealth of images ranging from spontaneous character drawings, which capture a likeness or an attitude in just a few pen strokes, through to finished drawings on a variety of themes. In some instances, the sketches are the preparatory pieces leading towards the finished works on display.

Norman Cornish – The Definitive Collection The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle This major retrospective brings together a fantastic range of drawings and paintings spanning Cornish’s entire career and forming the largest collection of his work ever assembled. The exhibition includes several previously unseen pieces.

Both exhibitions run from Saturday 16 November to Sunday 23 February.

To find out more, visit www.dur.ac.uk/palace.green and www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Holocaust Memorial Day Survivors of the Holocaust will talk about their lives and share their experiences when the county marks Holocaust Memorial Day. Hungarian-born Tomi Komoly will visit Durham Cathedral on Monday 27 January, to talk about how his family was torn apart when his father was called up to the forced labour unit of the Hungarian Army. Tomi will speak about his time in a walled ghetto, his escape with his mother in 1944 and liberation by the Soviet army in January 1945.

And Gabriele Keenaghan will tell the story of how her grandmother secured her a place on a kindertransport train from Austria to the UK. Gabriele, who will be speaking during a visit to Peterlee’s East Durham College, was recently awarded the British Empire Medal by the Queen for her services to Holocaust education and awareness.

The events, which mark the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, are both free to attend and open to the public, and have been organised by Durham County Council, Durham Cathedral and the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.

For full event details visit www.durham.gov.uk/hmd

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News

Questions about Brexit?

For the most up-to-date information about Brexit and how it will affect you, visit www.gov.uk/brexit

App supports care homes An innovative digital solution is helping care homes identify patients who are starting to become unwell, before their condition reaches crisis point.

Health Call Digital Care Home allows care homes to upload the results of their normal patient observations, such as blood pressure and heart rates, for clinical screening. This recognises any results outside the normal range and flags them for immediate attention.

Health Call Digital Care Home, which is now being made available to all care homes across County Durham and Darlington, has been introduced by County Durham’s Integrated Community Care Partnership, which brings together the council, NHS organisations and other providers. The aim is to deliver improved, joined up health and social care services, helping people to live healthier lives and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.

Talent of the future More than 70 new apprentices have recently kicked off their careers with the council.

The group have taken up roles in a wide range of fields including ICT, financial management, civil engineering, highways, bricklaying and horticulture.

As well as providing on-the-job experience and training, apprenticeships provide a salary and a nationally recognised qualification.

Find out more about our apprentice opportunities at www.durham.gov.uk/apprenticeships

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Applying for a school place Will your child be turning five on or between 1 September 2020 and 31 August 2021?

If so, you need to complete an application form telling us which infant, junior or primary school you would like them to attend.

You can apply online or download a form at www.durham.gov.uk/schooladmissions where you can also access a guide containing essential information to help with your application. Paper applications are available by calling 03000 265 896.

Applications close on Wednesday 15 January.

News Digital funding for rural areas Residents and business owners in rural parts of County Durham are being encouraged to apply for funding to boost their internet connection.

Rural Gigabit vouchers can be used to subsidise the cost of installing gigabitcapable full fibre broadband connection, which is faster, more reliable and cheaper to operate than traditional copper lines.

One-off contributions of up to £3,500 are available for small and mediumenterprises, while funding of up to £1,500 is available for residential properties.

Currently only around eight per cent of UK premises have access to a full fibre connection, which is also capable of supporting speeds far beyond a gigabit, and will serve the UK far into the future.

Vouchers are available until March 2021 or until all available funding has been allocated.

For more information, or to check if your property is eligible, visit https://gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk/rural

£3.4 million investment for businesses Ten County Durham businesses have now benefitted from a total investment of £3.4 million from the Finance Durham Fund.

As well as supporting the economic prosperity of the county, the money has helped to create and safeguard more than 250 jobs.

The £20 million Finance Durham Fund provides investment capital to support the growth of businesses across a wide range of sectors.

It was established by Durham County Council in 2017 and is managed by Maven Capital Partners and overseen by Business Durham, the economic development arm of the council.

Pupils from St Leonard’s Catholic School, Year 8, Future Business Magnates 2019 Winning team.

Future Business Magnates Young entrepreneurs throughout County Durham are developing their business ideas for a competition designed to inspire enterprise skills among schoolchildren.

Future Business Magnates, an annual competition run by Business Durham, our economic development arm, launches this month.

Influential names from the business world will partner school teams from across County Durham and provide mentoring and support.

Over the next eight months, pupils will attend a series of specially designed workshops and work with their mentors to develop a business idea, create a prototype and understand how to market and finance their product or service.

Notable investments during the past two years include £1 million for NETPark-based water technology business G2O; £1.95 million for leading independent engineering business Dyer Engineering; and £850,000 for reverse auction marketplace honcho.

The fund has also helped more than 150 businesses through its Access to Finance programme, which provides business clinics and workshops to help entrepreneurs develop their business strategy and prepare for investment.

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Winter services

On the road to winter The winter weather can be unpredictable so it’s important to be prepared for anything when out and about during the colder months.

Stay one step ahead

Snow and ice

Follow our Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates on road conditions and gritting routes.

You can also find out more about our plans to keep the county moving by visiting www.durham.gov.uk/winterinfo Remember to check the weather before setting off, particularly if you’re heading on a long journey. The Met Office issues weather warnings online at www.durham.gov.uk/weatherwarnings

When snow does fall, we work to clear main roads first in order to keep public transport up and running. This includes pre-salting about 1,060 miles of road.

Find out more about our gritting routes at www.durham.gov.uk/gritting

Gritting Keeping our roads and pavements clear is essential in order to keep the county moving during any spells of bad weather. That’s why we start each winter with a stockpile of 42,000 tonnes of salt.

We also have a fleet of 37 power gritters and 33 trail gritters for spreading salt on roads, along with 11 footpath gritters and six snow blowers.

We stock over 2,500 salt bins. To find out where they are, visit www.durham.gov.uk/saltbins.

If a salt bin needs refilling, let us know by completing the online form, quoting the number on the top of the bin.

Potholes The winter weather is often the root cause of potholes on our roads.

To report a pothole, visit www.durham.gov.uk/potholes or call 03000 260 000.

Sandbags we can provide sandbags if your property is at immediate risk of flooding in the wet winter months? Visit www.durham.gov.uk/sandbags or call 03000 260 000.

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Winter wellness

Stay well this winter

Cold weather can be seriously bad for your health. That’s why it’s important to look after yourself, and others, especially during the winter.

Medical tips If you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, or are aged over 65, make sure you get your flu vaccination, even if you got one last year.

Find out if you are eligible by visiting nhs.uk/getflujab If you are eligible for the flu vaccine, you are also likely to benefit from the pneumonia vaccine. Check if you are eligible at www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/pneumococcal-vaccination Although shingles is not seasonal, now is a good time to check if you need the shingles vaccine. People aged between 70 and 79 are generally eligible but you can find out more at www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/shingles-vaccination Make sure you have a good supply of prescribed drugs or medicines in case of poor weather conditions and don’t forget to get them before your pharmacy or GP closes for Christmas.

You can order repeat prescriptions online - ask for more information at your GP practice or visit nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/gps/gp-online-services If you feel unwell, don’t wait. Seek advice from your nearest pharmacist for minor health concerns or call 111 if you have a more urgent medical problem. In an emergency, call 999.

Stay warm

Stay safe

It is important to keep warm as cold weather can aggravate existing health problems and make you more vulnerable to winter illness.

Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F) and keep bedroom windows closed as breathing cold air can increase the risk of getting a chest infection.

During the day you may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer than 18°C.

Keep an eye on elderly and vulnerable friends, family and neighbours. If you are concerned about someone over the winter months, call Social Care Direct on 03000 26 79 79.

Keep active when you are indoors, try not to sit still for more than an hour or so and eat well. Make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day.

Also, watch out for signs of hyperthermia such as shivering, cold and pale skin, slurred speech, fast breathing, tiredness and confusion.

If you think someone is suffering from hypothermia, call 999 immediately.

Dress for the weather. Several layers of loose-fitting clothing and well-fitting boots or shoes with a good grip are the most effective way to stay warm and prevent a fall.

Don’t be embarrassed to use a walking aid if it helps you stay steady and safe.

For more information and advice on staying well over the coming months, visit the NHS: Stay Well This Winter website www.nhs.uk/staywell

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Christmas

Guide to Christmas Saturday 16 November, 11am-3pm

St Cuthbert’s Hospice Christmas fair Ushaw College Raffle, Christmas gifts, tombola and crafts as well as a visit from Father Christmas and performances by Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band. Admission by donation. www.stcuthbertshospice.com

There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by buying a special gift at a festive market or joining in the excitement as the lights are officially switched on in your town or village. Here’s our guide to some of the best Christmas magic in County Durham.

Sunday 24 November, 4.30pm-6pm

Crook winter light parade Starting from Glenholme Drive, Crook Produced by Jack Drum Arts, this enchanting procession will see the streets of Crook transformed into a winter wonderland, with dancers, performers, live music, lanterns, stilt walkers and large-scale illuminated puppets. The finale includes the count down to the Christmas light switch on outside Crook Civic Centre. Free.

01388 765 002, www.jackdrum.co.uk

Friday 29 November, time TBC

Friday 29 November, time TBC

Barnard Castle Christmas lights switch-on

Ferryhill Christmas fair

Scar Top, Barnard Castle Free. www.barnardcastle towncouncil.gov.uk

Thursday 28 November, 5.30pm

Craft fair in St Luke’s Church Hall, procession to the Market Place, carol singing in the town hall gardens, Christmas lights switch-on and more. www.ferryhill.gov.uk/events/ christmas_fayre.htm

Durham Christmas lights switch-on

Friday 29 November to Sunday 1 December

Durham Market Place Arrive early to avoid disappointment and make sure you wrap up warm.

Free. www.durhambid.co.uk

Various opening times at different venues Craft and gift marquee open 10am-6pm on Friday, 9am-6pm on Saturday and 10am-4.30pm on Sunday.

The craft and gift marquee on Palace Green will feature more than 180 stalls, while 30 regional food and drink producers will fill the Cloisters of Durham Cathedral. Browse stalls in the Market Place, Millennium Place and the Market Hall or visit Durham Cathedral for carol services and live music performances.

Visit County Durham

Durham City’s traditional Christmas festival

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Admission to craft and gift marquee £4, under 16s free. All other venues free entry. www.durhamchristmasfestival.com

Friday 29 November, 4pm-6pm

Christmas lights switch-on Bishop Auckland Market Place Including market, festive fun, stage show and lights switch-on.

Facebook: Bishop Auckland Town Council

Friday 29 November, 6pm-8pm

Christmas lights switch on Terrace Green, Seaham Christmas lights switch-on and parade with Santa Claus down Church Street, past Byron Place, on to Terrace Green, where there will be market stalls and carol singing. Free.

Saturday 30 November, 5.30pm-6.30pm

Christmas in Consett Middle Street, Consett Live music, festive entertainment and carol singing leading up to the Christmas tree light switch-on. There will be a Christmas jumper competition with a chance of winning a family ticket to the Christmas pantomime at the Empire Theatre. The winner will switch on the Christmas tree lights. Free. www.derwentvalleylife.org.uk

Lumley Castle Christmas market Shop ‘til you drop among local suppliers. Pick up some delicious festive treats, fabulous gifts or simply enjoy a day out with friends. Free entry.

0191 389 1111 www.lumleycastle.com

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December

Raby Castle Christmas market

0191 581 8034 www.seaham.gov.uk

Saturday 30 November, 10am-2pm

Middleton Mart Christmas fair Middleton-in-Teesdale Farmers’ Mart, Station Road Set in the Farmers’ Auction Mart, with fairy lights, foliage and festive music setting the scene. Hot refreshments will be available in the café and there is ample free parking. The fair is held prior to the Christmas lights switch-on event in the village which starts at 3.30pm. Free. www.utass.org

A perfect opportunity to buy stocking fillers and delicious food and drink for your guests and to source traditional gifts for friends and family.

Last year’s festive market at Raby Castle attracted more than 10,000 visitors and this year’s event is set to be even bigger and better than ever, with extra food concessions and more than 50 stalls extending into the walled garden. Some of Father Christmas’ reindeer will be making a special visit to Raby for two days during the Festive Market with their keepers where you can learn about the reindeer and their care. Free entry.

01833 660 202, www.raby.co.uk/events

t to Don’t forge hat’s On W r u o check ts more pages for lo , ets festive mark activities. events and

Saturday 30 November, 1pm-5pm

Christmas in Chester-le-Street Chester-le-Street town centre Festive entertainment and activities throughout the afternoon culminating in a stage show and Christmas tree lights switch-on at 4pm. Organised by Chester-le-Street and District Area Action Partnership. Free.

03000 266 147

Monday 2 and Thursday 5 December, 11.30am-8pm

Friday 20 December, 7pm

Durham Constabulary Band and Male Voice Choir Christmas charity concert Spennymoor Town Hall, High Street, Spennymoor A concert by the force band and male voice choir featuring a mix of popular music and Christmas tunes, culminating in community carol singing. Profits from this year’s concert will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. Tickets available from the choir secretary or Spennymoor Town Hall. £6.

07810 188 276 durhamconstabularymvc@outlook.com

For more information on Christmas light switch-on events around the county, visit www.durham.gov.uk/christmaslights

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Christmas

Council services over the Christmas period Bin collections

Customer access points

Bins will be emptied as normal up to and including Friday 20 December.

Will be closed from 12.45pm on Tuesday 24 December and will reopen on Thursday 2 January at 8.30am.

Over Christmas and New Year the following changes will apply: Normal collection day

Revised collection days Christmas New Year

Tuesday

As normal 24 December

Wednesday Friday 27 December

As normal 31 December Thursday 2 January 2020

Thursday

Saturday 28 December Friday 3 January 2020

Friday

Monday 30 December

Saturday 4 January 2020

Normal collections will resume from Tuesday 7 January 2020.

You can also find collection details online by entering your house number and postcode into the ‘My Durham’ section at www.durham.gov.uk/mydurham

Bulky waste collections There will be no large waste (bulky) collections between Monday 23 December and Friday 3 January.

Recycling centres Our centres are open as normal over the holidays except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Find locations and opening hours at www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

Real Christmas trees can be recycled once the celebrations are over

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Leisure centres Will close early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/ leisurecentres for opening hours at your local centre.

Libraries Opening times may vary, call into your local library (or check our website www.durham.gov.uk/libraries) before Christmas for opening times.

One Point family centres Will close or have restricted opening times over the Christmas period.

Call into your local centre before Christmas to see when it will be open.

Register offices Will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Bishop Auckland and Durham register offices will be open between these dates for appointments only. Phone 03000 26 6000.

Day centres for adults Will be open except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

If you’d like your real Christmas tree collected free of charge, either book online at www.durham.gov.uk or call 03000 260 000 between Monday 16 December and Sunday 12 January for collection after the New Year.

In an emergency

Alternatively, take your real Christmas tree to a household waste recycling centre www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc

Payments line

Our out of hours number is 03000 26 0000.

Make a debit/credit card payment 24/7 on 0300 456 2771.

Festive finances From budgeting for the big day to avoiding costly loans, our top tips for savvy spending and saving could help you manage your money better this Christmas and ensure you start the New Year in the best financial position.

Plan ahead Plan how much you are going to spend by making a list of friends and family you want to buy for and allocating a set amount for each person.

Don’t forget to include an amount in your budget for the money you will likely spend on food and drink.

Avoid costly loans Don’t use a loan shark to fund Christmas. If you do find yourself in a position where you need to borrow money, credit unions offer a much more affordable option than private lenders or weekly payment stores, with no hidden charges or fees.

Spread the cost by buying presents throughout the year and putting gifts away until Christmas.

Make your money work for you Getting rid of unused items before Christmas and selling them online can free-up extra space and also provide extra cash to put towards this year’s celebrations.

If you put a regular amount aside each week it will soon mount up, whether it’s saving spare coins in a jar or making a regular bank transfer into a savings account.

NEFirst offers easy to use savings accounts. You can pay cash or cheques in at any NEFirst office; by PayPoint at shops and garages; by standing order from your bank; or through payroll deductions with some employers.

Members receive a share of the annual profits, known as a dividend, which is paid annually based on each member’s average level of savings.

Contact the NE First Credit Union on 0330 055 3666 or visit www.nefirstcu.co.uk to find out more.

Free parking Throughout December we’ll be offering free parking after 3pm in all council car parks in order to ease the cost of Christmas.

You can also take advantage of free parking from 10am at all of our car parks around the county on Saturday 7 December, in celebration of Small Business Saturday.

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Green living

Follow our top tips for reducing, reusing and recycling for an eco-friendly Christmas.

ing paper that don’t include Buy Christmas cards and wrapp decorations can’t be recycled. glue, glitter or bows as these

After your C hristmas din ner, sure all food packaging h make as been rinsed befo re yo remember to u recycle it and use up or fr eeze any leftovers. www.lovefo odhatewast e.com Remove an y bows or ri bbons before putt ing paper w rapping in your recycli ng bin and re member, foiled and g litte and cellotap ry wrapping paper, e are non-re cyclable.

Don’t put p lastic carrie r bags or black bin ba gs in your re cycling bin as they clog up the recycling system.

ycled at your local household Old Christmas lights can be rec uldn’t be put in your normal waste recycling centre but sho rubbish or recycling bin. shopping bags with you Don’t forget to take reusable you’re looking for presents.

when

g ing on gifts or consider sendin Try not to use too much packag e wrapping. an e-voucher that won’t requir mas outfit? Why not donate Treated yourself to a new Christ shop, or take them to a textile some old clothes to the charity am.gov.uk/clothesrecycling recycling bank? Visit www.durh m in your rubbish or to find out more. Don’t put the recycling bin. get together, leave recycling If you’re planning a Christmas r guests. bins around your home for you

Dispose of a ny or dead batt old electrical items eries at you r local recycling ce ntre. Find o ut more at www.durha m.gov.uk/h wrc

Help reduce single use plastics this Christmas Sign up to our Single Use Plastics Pledge to tell us how you are planning to reduce your plastic waste this Christmas.

Almost 200 businesses, schools, community groups and individuals have so far vowed to do their bit since we launched the pledge earlier this year.

Visit www.durham.gov.uk/singleuseplastics to find out more.

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Lumiere 2019

Durham will once again be aglow with light and colour, when Lumiere makes its spectacular return to the city from 14 to 17 November.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of our internationally acclaimed light festival and the stage is set for a truly unforgettable experience for people of all ages.

Lumiere producer Artichoke has compiled an exciting line-up of enchanting installations featuring striking new creations by world renowned artists, alongside popular pieces from previous years.

An action-packed community engagement programme meanwhile is bringing people across County Durham together and spreading the joy of creativity.

There is no doubt that the tenth anniversary edition of Lumiere will entertain residents and visitors alike, but the benefits it brings go much further. Since its launch in 2009, Lumiere has demonstrated the power of culture to raise aspirations and bring communities together. It has created a great sense of pride among residents and injected millions of pounds into our economy.

In 2017, 240,000 people attended the festival, resulting in a ÂŁ7.5 million economic boost. Across the five festivals combined, the figures are equally impressive, with 840,000 people attending and an economic benefit in excess of ÂŁ28 million.

By transforming Durham into a place of light, Lumiere has strengthened our reputation as a cultural destination where heritage and innovation are championed and art transforms lives.

COMMISSIONED BY

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Lumiere 2019

The light fantastic From the thought-provoking to the intriguing; the jaw-dropping to the fun and quirky; this year’s Lumiere programme features a mesmerising selection of installations.

Thirty-seven stunning artworks will be spread across the city, transforming familiar places and shedding new light on iconic landmarks.

To celebrate ten years of Lumiere, festival producers Artichoke are bringing back popular pieces from past festivals. Alongside these, Lumiere 2019 will feature a range of new works by established and up-andcoming artists.

Here we look at some of the festival highlights.

Friendship Tree The Friendship Tree’s branches and blossoming flowers were made from recycled materials by more than 1,000 youngsters from around the world.

Their creations were brought together by young people from Parkside Academy, Willington, and their partners at Geschwister Scholl Schule in Tübingen, Germany, in the form of a glowing tree representing worldwide friendship.

The installation, on Old Elvet, is part of a series of events marking 50 years of friendship between County Durham and Tübingen through a town-twinning arrangement.

Mysticète A festival favourite is set to make a big splash when it returns for Lumiere 2019.

Mysticète, more popularly known as ‘the whale’, features a 3D projection of a baleen whale emerging from the water. Created by design agency Top’là and visual artist Catherine Garret, the installation was a much-loved feature of Lumiere 2015.

This year, it is set to resurface on the River Wear at a new location north of Pennyferry Bridge.

Mysticète’s remarkable lifelike animation by Domenico Spano is complemented by an evocative soundtrack by Laurent Frick.

Its environmental message, reminding visitors of the vulnerable beauty of nature and their duty to protect the earth’s inhabitants, has become more pertinent since the whale last appeared four years ago.

Other returning favourites include I Love Durham, Cloud and Fogscape #03238.

Visit www.lumiere-festival.com to find out more.

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A different view One of four winners of the annual BRILLIANT competition, A Different View has been created by our own Mike Donaghy.

Stones and Spirit Durham Cathedral has always played a central role in Lumiere and that tradition is set to continue this year.

Stones, by TigreLab, will see the exterior of the 11th Century building transformed by a shape-shifting video projection highlighting the significance of the cathedral as both an iconic historical structure and a modern symbol of the city.

Mike, who works as a finance assistant at the council, found inspiration for his installation in the unusually-shaped traffic lights he saw while on holiday in Akureyri, in Iceland.

The piece, in the Market Place and Saddler Street, brings a little touch of magic to daily life.

The projection will be accompanied by a soundtrack that will change and evolve, in symphony with the spirituality of the Cathedral.

Meanwhile, the interior and grounds of the building will be illuminated by the cascading candles and smouldering sculptures of returning artwork Spirit.

Creators Compagnie Carabosse’s other work includes setting Stonehenge aglow for the 2012 Olympics.

Cosmic Architecture A popular installation at Lumiere 2017, Cosmic Architecture celebrates scientific achievements with an out-of-this-world projection.

Geometrical Traces Geometrical Traces by Javier Riera will illuminate the trees on the banks of the River Wear with computer-generated patterns, created using the Fibonacci Sequence and other mathematical patterns found in the natural world.

The stunning piece, by Nina Dunn and John Del’ Nero, was commissioned specifically for Durham University’s Ogden Centre for Fundamental Physics.

This artwork aims to create a deeper connection between the audience and the natural environment, highlighting hidden locations and drawing attention to the many layers that make up our world. Look out over the Wear and feel the energy of Durham’s landscape by night.

It sees the architecture of the building come to life as 3D graphics depicting the birth of the galaxies ripple across its surface.

Visit www.lumiere-festival.com to find out more.

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Lumiere 2019

Top tips for Lumiere Lumiere is the UK’s largest light festival and we’re expecting this year to be the best yet.

Follow our top tips to help make the most of your Lumiere experience.

Plan your visit. Download the free Lumiere app

before your visit for details of all the installations and where to find them, as well as special Lumiere offers from retailers and food and drink outlets. You can also pick up a printed festival programme, including a map, for just £2 at a variety of locations in the city and county.

To make the most of your visit to Lumiere, stay a little longer and find out what else there is to see and do at www.thisisdurham.com/Lumiere

Use park and ride or public transport.

The best way to visit the festival is by using one of our many park and ride facilities. Park and rides will operate from Belmont, Sniperley, Howlands, Merryoaks, New College and Meadowfield for £2 per person and under16s go free. The last bus leaves at 11.30pm. Extra bus services will also be running and the train station is just a short walk from the city centre.

Don’t panic if you don’t have a ticket.

The festival is completely free to attend with 26 installations accessible without a ticket at all times. As in previous years, a peak-time ticketing system will be in operation for access into the central peninsula area between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening to allow visitors to have a comfortable experience. No-one will need a ticket to visit any area of the festival outside of peak hours.

Visit at a quieter time. The festival is at its most popular between 4.30pm and 7.30pm each evening so why not pay a visit later on? Lumiere is open until 11pm.

Thursday and Sunday nights are usually quieter too.

Visit quieter areas. Twenty-six of the 37

installations are outside of the ticketed area, so avoid the longest queues by visiting some of the other dazzling installations around the festival footprint.

Visit www.lumiere-festival.com to find out more.

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Travel light. For your safety and security, bag checks

and body searches will be in operation at entry points into the central peninsula. Please think carefully about what you bring with you and leave large bags and rucksacks (over A4 size) at home.

Come prepared. It’s November, it’s outdoors and it’s dark so wrap up warm, wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring a waterproof. We also recommend a small torch and don’t forget to bring your camera.

Get a taste of the festival. Durham has a great selection of cafés, restaurants and bars to choose from.

Visit www.thisisdurham.com/Lumiere to find out more.

Follow us on social media. @artichoketrust on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Get the latest updates at #LumiereDurham For the latest traffic and travel information follow @DurhamCouncil

Ask a festival maker. Our Lumiere volunteers are

there to help you enjoy your visit. If you need help or have a question, you can identify them by their light blue tabards.

Share your experience. Share your photos on social media with the hashtag #LumiereDurham

For live updates follow the hashtag #LumiereDurham

Green living

Bloomin’ marvellous County Durham’s green spaces have won a host of awards in a regional gardening competition.

Northumbria in Bloom judges presented a Gold Award to Durham City, which also won the Small City Category, while Wharton Park received a Gold Award and was winner of the Best Park category.

There was also success for Ovington, Middleton-in-Teesdale, Tanfield, Seaham, Coundon, Fishburn, Sedgefield, Sacriston, Waldridge, Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street, Stanley and Belmont.

Northumbria in Bloom is part of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom, a yearly nationwide gardening competition.

Find out more about In Bloom work across County Durham at www.durham.gov.uk/inbloom

Organisations and individuals who care for our county have been recognised at our 30th Environment Awards.

The awards honour great design, promote good environmental practice and community spirit in County Durham.

Leah Kelly and Flynn Dowson

Love Exploring in our parks Looking for a new outdoor adventure? Head to Hardwick Park where some impressive digital dinosaurs are waiting to be discovered.

The new Love Exploring app guides you around the park where you can ‘catch’ dinosaurs using your camera phone and state-of-the-art technology.

Once you’ve found them, why not take a selfie with your new pre-historic friends? The app is suitable for all ages and can be downloaded to most iphones and smartphones running Android.

For a full list of winners, visit www.durham.gov.uk/ environmentawards

Garden waste collections Remember that garden waste collections take a break during the winter months and will return on 31 March 2020.

To subscribe to the 2020 scheme you can sign up from Monday 2 December at www.durham.gov.uk/ gardenwaste or by calling 03000 260 000.

We offer fortnightly collections to 190,000 eligible properties across the county. For £35 a year you will receive 17 collections. We will also send you a letter and a bin sticker to advise you of your collection dates.

Battery recycling Batteries can be recycled at our household waste recycling centres?

Most supermarkets and County Durham primary schools also offer a battery collection scheme.

It’s important that batteries, along with household solvents, are disposed of correctly (not in household bins) as they can be a fire risk.

Find out more: www.durham.gov.uk/whatgoeswhere

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To w n s a n d villages

Regenerating our towns and villages

kland c u A p o h s i B Changing shopping habits have left high streets across the country struggling, with empty shop units an all too familiar sight. In County Durham, we know how important it is to local communities and the economy to have thriving town and village centres. That’s why we’re working hard to support them.

Over the next three years, we’re committing £2.5 million per year to fund regeneration plans in our towns and villages. This money will be used to make environmental improvements, buy up and reinvigorate derelict land and buildings and support local businesses.

In each edition we will focus on the work taking place in a different area of the county.

Bishop Auckland has seen significant improvements to facilities for residents in recent years and we’ve also been working with partners to build on the town’s growing reputation as a cultural destination.

A masterplan to boost the town’s economy was agreed earlier this year, following consultation with businesses, residents and other stakeholders. It identifies three key areas in the town centre: Market Place, Fore Bondgate, North Bondgate and the bus station - hosting events to increase activity in the Market Place, improving shop fronts and retail spaces, and exploring the potential relocation of the bus station and provision of additional parking.

Newgate Street (north) and Kingsway – making further shopfront and retail space improvements, reinvigorating historic buildings, and improving car parking.

Newgate Street (south) and the train station – working to increase visitor numbers and bring empty shops back into use.

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The masterplan is overseen by the Brighter Bishop Auckland Regeneration Partnership, which includes the council, the Auckland Project, Eleven Arches, Durham University and Historic England. Established in 2017, the partnership submits joint funding bids for projects that will contribute to the social, economic and physical regeneration of the town.

A recent application to the government’s £1 billion Future High Streets Fund was well received and the partnership has now been invited to submit a full funding application as one of the first 100 towns nationally to enter the programme. Our application focuses on the need to improve the physical infrastructure of the town. This would include the redevelopment of the bus station to provide more modern facilities closer to the Newgate Centre and additional parking to the rear of the site to cater for increased visitor numbers.

The application will also look at how we can make better use of land within the town centre. We’ll find out by autumn 2020 whether we’ve been successful.

The Auckland Project

Heritage and culture In April 2018, Historic England awarded Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) status to the town, to develop a £1.96 million programme of heritage-led growth to create a sustainable, more vibrant, connected and enhanced historic centre.

There are more than 50 projects and buildings within the HAZ programme including the West Mural Tower, which is undergoing urgent repairs so that it can be taken off the national Heritage at Risk register. A new culture and heritage programme including walks, talks, workshops, displays, a radio programme and an archive film screening is already up and running.

We are investing £1.5 million into refurbishing Bishop Auckland Town Hall, transforming it into a thriving cultural hub. Improvements will include the creation of a new café, bar and contemporary art gallery space on the ground floor, as well as enhanced library facilities. The auditorium will also be revamped with more comfortable seating, and the cinema will become fully digitised, allowing popular blockbusters to be shown as well as live screenings, theatrical productions, comedy nights and lectures. The refurbished Town Hall is due to re-open in spring 2020.

Our regeneration efforts in Bishop Auckland will complement crowd-pleasing events such as Kynren, Bishop Auckland Food Festival and the multimillion-pound conservation of Auckland Castle.

The spectacular open-air live shows of Kynren, performed by a cast and crew of 1,000 local volunteers, contribute significantly to the area’s visitor economy. Meanwhile, Saturday 2 November sees the reopening of Auckland Castle following a three-year conservation programme by the Auckland Project in the hope of attracting 130,000 visitors a year.

The influx of additional visitors will mean a financial boost for shops, bars, cafés and other venues in the town, which should, in turn, attract new businesses, bringing increased job opportunities for local residents. This year’s Bishop Auckland Food Festival attracted a record 29,000 people to the town with stalls, interactive workshops, live music and children’s entertainment. It will return next year on the weekend of Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April.

Free wi-fi The Digital High Street Project will mean that from November, visitors to Bishop Auckland will be able to take advantage of free wi-fi while they are out and about in the town. It is hoped that this will encourage people to stay longer and spend more money while they are in Bishop Auckland. The wi-fi zone will run from the western end of Fore Bondgate, along to the Market Place and down to the southern end of Newgate Street.

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Saturday 30 November - Tuesday 31 December 2019 £17 (£15 concession), £56 family ticket (four tickets, min. one adult) School and group discounts available.

The Empire Theatre and Cinema, Front Street, Consett DH8 5AB 03000 262 400 www.empireconsett.co.uk 22

Health and wellbeing

New Year, New You If you’re aiming for a healthy start to 2020, we’ve got a range of services that could help.

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Run Durham – Couch to 5K

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Cycle Durham – Sofa to Cycle

Build your confidence on a bike with our Sofa to Cycle course, progressing from cycling in a quiet, traffic-free environment to taking to the road.

Cycle Durham also runs free weekly rides suitable for beginners and intermediate cyclists. Bikes and helmets can be provided free of charge, so people who don’t own a bike can also get involved.

03000 266 555, www.durham.gov.uk/cycledurham

Running is a cheap and fun way to improve your health and fitness but taking those first steps can be daunting. This free ten-week programme is ideal for beginners and the next course starts in January.

A mixture of walking and running helps participants build up their stamina, with the aim that by the end of the course they can run 5K. Tina Patterson, 58, from Lanchester, said: “The Couch to 5K group were so supportive and non-judgemental. I felt comfortable going at the pace I could achieve and was encouraged all the way.”

03000 266 555, www.durham.gov.uk/rundurham

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Walk Durham – health walks

Walking is a great way to get active and meet new people. Walk Durham offers free, weekly, short group walks across the county. Led by trained leaders, they are ideal for beginners.

Cliff Waghorn, 75, from Chester-le-Street, said: “I’ve met so many lovely people and look forward to the walks. I’ve lost weight and I used to get out of breath climbing the stairs but not anymore.

I really don’t know what I’d do without the Walk Durham scheme, it’s totally changed my life.”

03000 266 555 www.durham.gov.uk/walkdurham

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Go smoke free

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Try a Dry January

This one-month challenge could help you reset your relationship with alcohol.

Sign up to Dry January for better sleep, more money in your pocket, healthier insides, more energy and brighter skin. www.durham.gov.uk/alcohol www.alcoholchange.org.uk

Did you know that stopping smoking reduces your risk of a heart attack, stroke and death from lung cancer? What’s more, after three to nine months of not smoking, coughs, wheezing and breathing problems will improve as your lung function increases by up to 10 per cent.

If you’re inspired to kick the habit, Smokefreelife County Durham can help. The confidential stop smoking service is available free of charge to anyone living or working in County Durham.

You’ll also save money, meaning you’ll not only be healthier, you be wealthier too.

0800 772 0565, www.smokefreelifecountydurham.co.uk, www.durham.gov.uk/stopsmoking

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What’s on

November to March

Thursday 21 November to Sunday 5 January Aladdin Gala Theatre, Durham Streetwise young Aladdin is trying to make his town rich by marrying a princess.

But evil baddie Abanazar is after gold and riches and world domination.

Police Chief Tai Chi is hot on their heels, and even daft laundry lad Wishee Washee bumbles himself into the police force.

We take in China, Egypt and Sacriston… there’s a bunch of mummies, a genie, and in the middle of it all is crazy Widow Twanky just trying to get the washing clean. £7-£18, family ticket £54-£62, group discounts available.

03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk

Saturday 30 November to Tuesday 31 December Snow White: The Pantomime The Empire Theatre and Cinema, Consett Following the box office success of previous years’ pantomimes, the much-loved tale of Snow White will be transformed into the fairest panto of them all.

Packed full of audience participation, well-known pop songs, dazzling costumes and hilarious characters to create a unique theatrical experience for the whole family. £17-£15 concessions, family ticket £56.

03000 262 400, www.empireconsett.co.uk

Monday 2 to Sunday 29 December One More Sleep Gala Theatre, Durham Join Roo and Mr Pickle (her toy rabbit) as they go on an unexpected snowy adventure, one that takes them far from home. Can they make it home in time for Christmas?

From the team behind Mrs Claus’ Kitchen and Once Upon A Christmas comes a brand new show for little adventurers and their grown-ups. £7-£8, group rate £6.50-£7.50.

03000 266 600, www.galadurham.co.uk

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What ’s on

GALA THEATRE, DURHAM

EMPIRE THEATRE & CINEMA, CONSETT

Friday 22 November, 7.45pm Funny Bones Comedy Club MC Lee Kyle introduces Vince Atta, who fuses live on-the-spot hip-hop, reggae and techno with hilarious stand-up; self-styled Newcastle Brown Male, Rahul Kohli; and hysterical stories from miserable-beyond-his-years Chris Copestake. £9.

Friday 17 January, 7.30pm Miss Crispy 1988 A sparkling comedy set in 80s Billingham. Despite the glamour of working on line two, the girls are looking for something new - life can’t be all about cheese and onion crisps. With the announcement of a beauty pageant the ladies are raring to go. £15, £13 concessions.

DURHAM COUNTY RECORD OFFICE COUNTY HALL, DURHAM Friday 15 November, 7.30pm The Johnny Cash Roadshow The only show to be endorsed by the Cash family is back on top form with a brand new production for 2019. Songs from the San Quentin live album will be performed, mixed with all the hits and favourite songs you know and love. £22.50.

Grab your wands and don your house robes for an entirely improvised Harry Potter comedy play, based on an audience suggestion of a fanfiction title. £12, £10 concessions.

Thursday 21 November, 6.30pm-8pm Third Thursday Talk: Wonders of the River Wear Learn about the stunning River Wear maps produced by surveyor Francis Giles in 1819 before hearing about a natural phenomenon that drew huge crowds to Durham’s Framwellgate Bridge each evening in the summer of 1845. Free, donations welcome.

Advance booking essential.

Saturday 23 November, 7.30pm Carole - The Music of Carole King With a cast of the UK’s finest musicians, singers and dancers, this is the story of the career of one of the most successful and admired songwriters in the history of popular music. £23.50, £22.50 concessions.

Saturday 18 January, 7.30pm Spontaneous Potter

November to March

www.durhamrecordoffice.org.uk 03000 267 619

Sunday 16 February, 2.30pm The Bear From the book by Raymond Briggs.

Adapted by Pins and Needles. With dazzling puppetry, delicious music and dozens of laughs, The Bear is an unforgettable theatre experience for the whole family. £12.50, £46 family.

A family ticket for The Bear For a chance to win a family ticket to see The Bear at Consett Empire, simply tell us: Do wild polar bears live near the Arctic Circle or the Antarctic Circle?

See page 2 for details of how to enter.

Sunday 26 January, 7.30pm The Chicago Blues Brothers, A Night at the Movies

Tuesday 25 February, 7.30pm Spirit of the Dance

The greatest movie anthems performed live. Featuring songs from Footloose, A Star is Born, Dirty Dancing, The Greatest Showman and many more. £24, £15 concessions.

One of the biggest dance shows in the world. Delivering the powerful rhythms of Irish dance combined with the passionate Latino rhythms of Tango, Flamenco and Red-Hot Salsa. £27.

www.galadurham.co.uk 03000 266 600

www.empireconsett.co.uk 03000 262 400

Bishop Auckland Town Hall is closed until spring 2020 for a major refurbishment.

It will see the Market Place venue transformed into a thriving cultural hub with an improved layout and modern facilities to benefit the community and attract more visitors.

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WHARTON PARK, DURHAM THE WITHAM, BARNARD CASTLE Thursday 14 November, 7.30pm OSCiLLATE

HARDWICK PARK, SEDGEFIELD

Saturday 30 November to Saturday 4 January Festive Stocking Trail Take part in an exciting trail around the park to discover what Santa has put in the stockings. £1 per trail sheet, available from the café 10am-4pm.

Toddler Tales and Trails Crafts, storytelling and fun park trails for two to five-year-olds:

An energetic fusion of classical tap and street dance. £12, £10 age 16 and under.

Wednesday 13 and Saturday 16 November, 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm Zog Wednesday 4 and Saturday 7 December, 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm The Night Before Christmas

www.thewitham.org.uk 01833 631 107

Festive Stories Sunday 1 December, 1pm-2.30pm We’re Going on an Elf Hunt Sunday 8 December, 1pm-2.30pm Snowball by Sue Hendra Sunday 15 December, 1pm-2.30pm Stickman

THE BOWES MUSEUM, BARNARD CASTLE

Story time, festive trail and a themed Christmas craft activity. £4 per child, booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday 30 November, 10am-12noon and 1pm-3pm Wooden Reindeer Building Workshop

Sunday 22 December, one-hour sessions at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm Christmas Corner with Santa

Make a reindeer out of natural materials.

For ages 5+. £24 per reindeer, booking essential.

Thursday 5 December, 8pm Bootleg Blondie The official Debbie Harry and Blondie tribute band. £18.

Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December, 10am-4pm Christmas Market More than 70 stalls selling food, drink and crafts. With live music and entertainment. £5 adult, £2.50 children, parking charges apply on site on Sat and Sun but a free park and ride will run.

Friday 11 October to Friday 28 February, 10am-5pm #Untitled10 2019 10 artists in residence present a unique series of works around the museum, near items or stories that influenced their creation. Normal museum admission prices apply. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk 01833 690 606

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Children can join Santa for a full hour where he will read the Night Before Christmas whist they snuggle down with a hot chocolate and a cookie.

Includes a craft activity, environmentally friendly reindeer food making, festive trail and an opportunity to meet Santa and receive a gift. £10.50 per child, booking essential. www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark 03000 262 655

A family ticket to The Bowes Museum For a chance to win a family ticket, simply tell us: On what dates does The Bowes Museum Christmas Market take place?

See page 2 for details of how to enter.

£4 per session per child, booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult

Saturday 30 November to Saturday 4 January, 10am-4pm Festive Gingerbread Trail Get a taste of Christmas following this seasonal trail through the park. £1 per trail sheet, available from the gift shop

Sunday 8 December, 10am-12noon and 1pm-3pm Wooden Snowman Building Workshop Make a snowman from natural materials.

For ages 4+. £9.50 per snowman, booking essential.

Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December, various times Father Christmas in the Park Visit Father Christmas, receive a gift and enjoy a Christmas trail, crafts and story time. For all ages. £10.50 per child, booking essential. www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark 03000 262 899

What ’s on

BEAMISH MUSEUM

LOCOMOTION, SHILDON Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November Shildon Brick Show, Lego Weekend In association with Brick Alley Lego User Group

Saturday 16 November to Tuesday 24 December Christmas at Beamish Discover the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Christmas past at 1820s Pockerley Old Hall, 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1940s Farm and 1950s welfare hall.

Saturday 16 November to Sunday 23 February (exc. Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day)

Ice Skating at Beamish Strap on a pair of skates and go for a spin on a real outdoor ice rink.

Small extra charge applies. www.beamish.org.uk 0191 370 4000

REGULAR EVENTS Friday evenings (term time), 7.30pm Sedgefield Lyric Singers Ceddesfeld Hall, Sedgefield Community choir. No auditions or need to read music. A youth choir for ages 8-18 meets from 6pm-7.15pm

Newton Aycliffe Youth Football Club

Saturday 30 November to Sunday 5 January Festive arts, crafts and science activities for all the family www.locomotion.org.uk 01904 685 780

NOVEMBER Saturday 2 November, 10am-4pm Auckland Castle re-opening Bishop Auckland The castle reopens following 3 years of refurbishment. From 2 November, the castle will be open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm. www.aucklandproject.org

Wednesday 13 November, 7pm Derwent Valley Flower Club Blackhill Club, Ridley Street, Consett Val Guest demonstrates A Christmas Box of Surprises. £6. 01207 505 576

Girls - Sundays, 10am-11am Boys - Fridays, 5.30pm-6.30pm Football sessions for school age reception to year 2. 07939 045 242, www.nayfc.com

Soccarena Durham For ages 3+. £4 per week. 07504 164 808

Monday and Thursday, 6pm-9pm Girls Group and Youth Club UTASS, 9-11 Chapel Row, Middleton-in-Teesdale Meet new people, catch up with friends and try fun sessions like gymnastics and baking. £1 per session. 01833 641 010 www.utass.org

Wednesday 20 November, 2pm-4pm Fuel Poverty Event Willington Open Door Church, Wesley Street, Willington Advice on saving money on your energy bills and keeping your home warm. Free, includes buffet.

Friday 22, Saturday 23 November, 10am-5pm and Sunday 24 November, 12noon-5pm Christmas Craft Fair

Greenfield Community College

Saturdays 9am-11am Durham United Football Development Centres

November to March

Saturday 16 November, 12noon-2pm Brandon Christmas Fayre St John’s Hall, Meadowfield Craft stalls, tombola and raffle. Entry by donation.

Tuesday 19 November, 7.30pm-9.30pm Ferryhill, Sedgefield and District Flower Club Parish Hall, Sedgefield Lynda Fraser demonstrates Fantastically Festive. £8. 07533 752 870

Brancepeth Castle Over 80 stalls.

Hot and cold food. Free parking.

Wheelchair accessible. £3, £2 seniors, under 14s free with paying adult. 0191 378 9670 www.brancepethcastle.org.uk/craft-fairs

Saturday 23 November, 10am-12noon Terrific Trees of Low Barns Low Barns Nature Reserve, Bishop Auckland Celebrate National Tree Week.

Collect natural materials and make a sensory tree jar. £4 per child.

0191 584 3112, www.durhamwt.com

Saturday 23 November, 10am-1pm Christmas Market Pittington Village Hall, High Pittington Craft stalls, refreshments, tombola, raffle and a visit from Santa. Free entry.

Santa’s Grotto £2 per child.

07925 067 001 www.pittingtonvillagehall.org.uk

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November, 10am-4pm Christmas Craft and Gift Fair St Catherine’s Community Centre, Market Place, Crook Free entry with café available all day.

Sunday 24 November, 1pm-4.30pm Crook Community Christmas

Glenholme Park, Crook Fun for all the family including Santa’s Grotto, fair rides, food stalls and live entertainment. Free, Santa’s Grotto £2.50 per child. www.facebook.com/CrookChristmasEvent

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Saturday 30 November, 4pm-6pm Illuminating the Hall

Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 November, 7.15pm + Saturday at 2.15 pm Cinderella: Chester-le-Street Theatre Group Pantomime

Crook Hall and Gardens, Durham City Watch Santa switch on the lights, join in games and stories, then meet him and receive a gift. £8.50, £11 child, under 1s £3. 0191 384 8028 www.crookhallgardens.co.uk

Chester-le-Street Community Centre £10, £8 concessions. 0191 388 3778 or http://clstheatregroup.com

Christmas lunch for four at Beamish Hall To win a tasty Christmas lunch for four people at Beamish Hall, simply tell us: Which author and illustrator created The Snowman, The Snowdog and The Bear?

Experience must be redeemed by end of December 2019. Advance booking is required and is subject to availability. The booking is subject to any and all terms and conditions of the event. Experience is nontransferable and may not be exchanged for cash or other products/services.

See page 2 for details of how to enter.

Middridge Village Hall Craft stalls, tea, coffee, scones and cakes.

Various dates/times from Saturday 30 November to Sunday 22 December A Magical Christmas

Beamish Hall Country House Hotel Follow directions to the enchanted forest and meet the magical characters who live there before mixing magic with Santa and becoming an honorary elf. An immersive theatrical experience for those who believe in the magic of Christmas. £22 per adult, £25 per child. 01207 233 733 https://a-magical-christmas.co.uk

Tuesday 3 December 10.30am-2.30pm Introduction to Jewellery Making Greenfield Arts, Greenfield Way, Newton Aycliffe Learn basic jewellery making techniques and make a gift to take away. £35.

01325 379 048, www.greenfield-arts.co.uk

Saturday 30 November, 12noon-4pm Christmas Winter Wonderland Blackhall Community Centre With Santa, stalls and café. facebook.com/ groups/blackhallcommunitycentre

DECEMBER Tuesday 3 and Wednesday 4 December, 6pm-9.30pm Dick Whittington Pantomime Shotton Hall, Peterlee £5, £3 child, under 3s free, family of four £15. 0191 586 2491, www.peterlee.gov.uk

Beamish Hall, Beamish, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0YB Telephone 01207 233 733 www.beamish-hall.co.uk

Sessions throughout December Fireside Stories with Father Christmas Raby Castle Visit Father Christmas for stories from his fireside chair. £20 for one child plus accompanying adult. £22.50 for one child plus two accompanying adults.

01833 660 202 www.raby.co.uk/christmas

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Cooper Hall, Witton Gilbert Featuring Durham miners brass band and Consett citizens choir. All proceeds to the chemotherapy ward University Hospital Durham. £5 inc. light festive refreshments.

Monday 2 December, 2pm-4pm Middridge Christmas Fair

Friday 29 November, 5.30pm-8.30pm Christmas Tree Lighting

Shotton Hall, Peterlee Visit Santa and Mrs Claus, enjoy mulled wine, craft and food stalls, Santa’s craft workshop and the lighting of the tree at 6pm.

Free admission by pre-bookable ticket.

0191 586 2491, www.peterlee.gov.uk

Monday 2 December, 6.30pm for a 7pm start Christmas Musical Evening

Wednesday 4 to Sunday 8 December, 4pm-6pm Wed-Fri, 11am-5pm Sat and 2pm-6pm Sun Christmas Tree Festival St Mary’s Parish Church, Barnard Castle 50 trees on display, sponsored and decorated by local organisations and traders. Entry free, donations welcomed.

01833 637 334 www.stmarysbarnardcastle.org.uk

What ’s on

November to March

Thursday 5 December, 7pm Cestrian Flower Club Park View Community Centre, Chester-le-Street Mark Entwhistle demonstrates A Golden Christmas. £10 inc. refreshments. www.cestrianflowerclub.co.uk

Wednesday 18 December, 7pm Bishop Auckland Choral Society Christmas Concert

Thursday 12 December, 7pm Jazz at The Lubetkin: Emma Fisk’s Hot Club du Nord

Friday 6 December, 7pm and Saturday 7 December, 10am, 2pm and 7pm Aladdin: Family Pantomime

Lubetkin Theatre, Peterlee Gypsy Jazz classics plus a sprinkling of festive cheer. £10, £5 under 18s.

0191 587 2534, www.lubetkinjazz.com

St Mary’s Church, Vart Road, Bishop Auckland £7, £5 concessions. 01388 834 359 www.bachoral.org.uk

Saturday 21 December, 7pm A Concert of Christmas Music with The Argus Singers Chester-le-Street Methodist Church £6 inc. refreshments. 07482 749 713 info@argussingers.org.uk

JANUARY

Spennymoor Settlement’s Everyman Theatre, O’Hanlon Street, Spennymoor £7, family of four £25. Wheelchair spaces available, call 01388 816 430. www.ticketsource.co.uk/settlementeveryman

Saturday 7 December, 12noon Christmas Market, Music and More TCR Hub, Barnard Castle Family fun. Stalls, music, bouncy castle, food and elf trail. Free entry.

01833 690 150, www.tcrhub.co.uk

Saturday 7 December, 1pm-4pm Free Christmas Family Fun Day

Saturday 14 December, 7pm and Sunday 15 December, 2.30pm Mighty Wurlitzer traditional Christmas concert New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear £9, inc. festive refreshments.

01388 762 467, www.netoa.org.uk

The Durham Centre, Belmont Industrial Estate, Durham Giant inflatables, games, face painting, rodeo reindeer, Santa’s Grotto, refreshments, and more. Run by Emmanuel Church Durham. Free. www.emmanuel.org.uk

Saturday 7 December, 7pm A Christmas Evening with The Glendale Choir and The Argus Singers St Patricks RC Church Hall, Consett £5 inc. refreshments. 07482 749 713

Sunday 8 December, 3pm-5.30pm Weardale Community Choir Winter Concert Frosterley Village Hall £7 inc. refreshments. Under 16s free with paying adult. 07811 221 151 Facebook: weardalecommunitychoir

Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 January, 7.15pm and Saturday matinee 2.15pm Aladdin: Family Pantomime Park View Theatre, Chester-le-Street £10, £9 concessions and Thursday performance. 0191 388 3362 www.dryburntheatricalworkshop.co.uk

Wednesday 25 January, 10am-1pm Durham Organic Gardeners’ Association Potato Day

Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm Christmas with Durham Cathedral Choir

Bowburn Community Centre, Durham Road, Bowburn Annual sale of seed potatoes and onion sets. Bring your own bags to fill.

No minimum amount. Free entry.

07899 720 861, www.doga.org.uk

Durham Cathedral Christmas carols and seasonal music in a candlelit cathedral. Durham Cathedral Choir is joined by the Reg Vardy Band. £8-£28. 0191 338 7178 www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Saturday 14 December, 8pm-11.30pm Christmas Ball Trimdon Station Community Centre With music by Graeme Scarlett. Dress code tuxedo and sparkle. £14 per person including meal. Book by 30 November 01429 882 200, Facebook- Trimdon Station Community Centre

Wednesday 25 January, 7.30pm Durham Choral Society Concert Durham Cathedral Including Faure’s Requiem and Woods’ This Joyous Night. £15-20, £10 students and 18-25yrs, under 18s £5. tickets@durhamchoralsociety.org.uk

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Saturday 14 March, 7.30pm-9pm Dark Skies Star Gazing Harehope Quarry, Frosterley £5. Not suitable for young children.

01388 529 154, www.natureholiday.co.uk

FEBRUARY February half term Keep an eye on Hardwick and Wharton Park websites for announcements about half term activities.

Sunday 2 to Saturday 15 February, 7.30pm (Sunday 2 matinee only at 2.30pm) Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw The City Theatre, Fowler’s Yard, Durham This classic play follows the fortunes of Liza Doolittle after a chance meeting with linguist Henry Higgins. £7.50, £6.50 concessions on Sun and Mon only. Tickets from Durham Gala on 03000 266 600 www.durhamdramatic.co.uk

Saturday 29 February, 6.30pm-8pm Gilesgate Lumiere Lantern Parade A spectacular display of home-made lanterns parade through the streets of Gilesgate accompanied by a Samba drumming band, creating a carnival atmosphere. Free. 0191 384 9745

MARCH

Find more events and activities to enjoy this winter at www.thisisdurham.com/whats-on

Thursday 5 to Saturday 7 March, 7.15pm on Thu and Fri, 2.30pm on Saturday Summer Holiday

Park View Community Theatre, Chester le Street CAOS Junior members present the much loved musical. From £10. www.facebook.com/chesterlestreetaos www.ticketsource.co.uk/caos

Your local library During school holidays all our libraries offer a range of activities including reading events and arts and crafts sessions.

We also offer regular activities for all ages.

Saturday 8 February, 11am-3pm Tales from the Heart of Winter Durham University Botanic Garden Join Elizabeth Baker, from Tillytwo Tales Storytelling, as we celebrate National Storytelling Week with some frosty fables, snowy stories and winter crafts. Normal admission price applies. 0191 334 2887 www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden

Friday 6 March, 8pm-10pm Lou Sanders - Say Hello to Your New Step-Mummy The Witham, 3 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle Lou has appeared on lots of TV shows and won the last series of Dave’s Taskmaster.

Age 16+. £13. 01833 650 930 www.funnywaytobe.com

Regular Toddler Time sessions for under 5s help develop creativity and literacy skills through storytelling, crafts and songs. Adults can enjoy regular Reading Groups, Get Creative craft sessions and more.

Find out more at www.durham.gov.uk/libraries

A Hotel Indigo festive lunch for two Afternoon tea, lunch and dinner are served at the prestigious Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill in the old Durham Council Senate Chamber, located at Hotel Indigo Durham. Special occasion dining is also catered for up to 60 people in the Grade II listed Victorian Council Rooms.

For a chance to win a delicious festive lunch for two people in December, simply tell us: What dates does this year’s Lumiere Festival take place on?

Prize cannot be used on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve. See page 2 for details of how to enter.

Hotel Indigo Durham, Old Shire Hall, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HL. Telephone 0191 329 3535 www.durham.hotelindigo.com

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