J U N E 2017
I S S U E 145
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What’s on this month?
On the rails!
The new Alien film reviewed
TV and local event highlights
A visit to Gravesend, Kent
Is it another Sir Ridley Scott classic?
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THE TEAM DIRECTOR Benjamin Kerry MEDIA SALES Val Atkinson Malcolm Hook DESIGN TEAM Joe Crooks Ann-Marie Tulip Daniel Haley WEB DESIGNER Alex Porritt CREATIVE & SOCIAL Jack Crute COPYWRITERS Gavin Lenaghan Craig Lenaghan Helen Duncan Ellen Rossiter ACCOUNTS Victoria Pilch CONTRIBUTORS Alex Nelson DISTRIBUTOR Malcolm Cranston
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The IN&AROUND magazine is delivered to thousands of homes and businesses every month in Chester-leStreet, Durham & Derwentside with an estimated readership of over 100,000. We are the largest FREE monthly publication in North Durham and we are also pound for pound the cheapest form of printed advertising in North Durham, If you would like to advertise with us please call 0191 3882698, with prices starting from only £40+vat per month, every business large or small can afford to promote themselves across North Durham.
Welcome to the latest issue of IN&AROUND! What’s June about for you? The smell of fresh flowers? The general election? Or just making the most of the sunnier weather? Whatever – I’m pleased to confirm that we have yet more great content waiting for you in this month’s issue of the magazine. IN&AROUND continues to be delivered to homes and businesses across County Durham, including Durham, Chester-le-Street and Derwentside, and we’ve got yet more amazing features for you this month. They include a review of the eagerly anticipated Alien: Covenant, an overview of the main political parties competing for your vote on the 8th and yet more fantastic articles on aspects of the history of our area. What have I forgotten to mention? Oh yes: our advertisers. They’re the people who really make the magazine possible, and we couldn’t be more thankful to them once again. You can generate awareness of your own business by calling our lovely Val on 0191 388 2698 or sending her an email via sales@ inandaroundmag.co.uk. She’ll be able to tell you about our attractive advertiser packages, including our heavily discounted three and six-month plans. Finally, we would like to express our massive gratitude once again to all of our readers. Let us know what you think of this month’s magazine, so that we can make July’s IN&AROUND the best one yet!
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ALIEN: Covenant
I
in general; they’re a pretty nondescript and interchangeable bunch, even amid such signs of promise as newly promoted captain Daniels’ grief and Christopher Oram (Billy Crudup)’s worries that his religious faith could undermine his authority. However, the clear lead is Michael Another familiar Alien trope is the Fassbender. He plays David 8 resourceful female officer, this time and Walter, synthetic androids created by the Weyland-Yutani played by Katherine Waterston, whose terraforming expert Daniels Corporation - the former an “Dany” Branson often seems to be earlier-made prototype android who was a part of the crew of the the only character with anything approaching a sense of reason. She is evidently the closest thing here to an Ellen Ripley surrogate, and when the decision is made to land the colonization ship Covenant So, has one of the greatest image-makers in modern cinema on an Earth-like planet sending a mysterious radio transmission, she managed to imbue the sixth instalment of the Alien franchise, is the only one to warn of possible terror, rather than the hoped-for set in the 2100s, with something approaching his former heights? In unchartered paradise. many ways, the answer would have to be a slightly disappointed no. Indeed, there’s little to be said That’s not to suggest that Covenant for the 15-strong Covenant crew t’s always difficult for our team here at IN&AROUND to turn down the opportunity to review a Sir Ridley Scott film; the celebrated Blade Runner and Gladiator director is, after all, one of County Durham’s finest imports, having been born in South Shields and subsequently studied at the West Hartlepool College of Art, now a campus of Cleveland College of Art and Design. It has even been suggested that the evocative industrial landscapes of this part of the world were a key influence for the atmospheric, visually concentrated filming style that Scott since took around the world.
10 | IN&AROUND
is anywhere near timid; indeed, there’s no shortage of hugged faces, burst chests and other intense set pieces like, erm, a Xenomorph making an unwelcome entrance to two crew members’ perhaps illadvised moment of shower-bound amorousness.
destroyed Prometheus, and the latter a newer model providing assistance to the crew aboard the Covenant.
“
The film even opens with a big close-up of Fassbender’s eye, as part of a scene calling upon a certain other over-familiar sci-fi staple - the hugewindowed sterile white room. It sees David lectured on the mysteries of creation of a young Peter Weyland (Guy Pierce), who even instructs the android to play Wagner’s Entry of the Gods Into Valhalla on a grand piano. But while Fassbender’s Fassbender Roy Batty-esque turn is one of the
Review
best things about Covenant, it does beg the question of whether Scott would have been better off making a movie with a stronger emphasis on Fassbender as the star, but with no tangible connection to Alien.
The best experience ever. It was a lot of fun actually to see the technology now of how you can do this.
As it is, Alien: Covenant represents something of a cross-breeding of Scott’s two greatest science fiction hits - Alien and Blade Runner - but with an end result not quite as atmospheric or compelling as one might have hoped.
Michael
Gavin Lenaghan Copywriter
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Cake, Coffee & Chill Owner Rebecca has spent her younger years traveling the world. Having visited cafes, coffee and cake shops on all sides of the globe, she realised her love for having a place where people can meet and socialise, indulge their sweet tooth on an amazing choice of sumptuous cakes, and take time out in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere to watch the world (Stanley) go by. A place where everyone is met with a friendly, welcoming face and leaves happy.
the latest craze of Cake-a-Shakes, DH9 café have all bases covered.
DH9 Cafe is an independent cake and pie shop. Their produce is homemade using locally-sourced ingredients and staffed by local people. They do cakes made to order and have cafe space. The cafe is part of a family business. Owner Rebecca also works alongside her mother, who has over 30 years of experience as a patisserie chef. They have been manufacturing throughout the North East for 30 years, and supply a diverse range of products, including hand-made to order fresh desserts, cream cakes, cheesecakes, sweet and savour pastries, celebration cakes, short order birthday cakes and buffets. DH9 café not only have comfortable surroundings to enjoy their wide choice of sweet and savoury offerings, they also offer a takeaway service allowing you to enjoy your purchases at home, at work or even a picnic! From Barista style coffees and hot drinks to 12 | IN&AROUND
Keep an eye out in your local area as we expand into a bigger premise. We are the North East’s leading fresh dessert supplier to hotels, restaurants and cafes. You can also find us at food festivals and local markets. Job vacancy: We are currently looking for anyone interested in cake-making and with a dessert interest. Please send a CV to us at dh9cafe@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook @dh9cafe, Stanley. Or call us on 01207437609.
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Places to go...
Gravesend, Kent When I wrote two months ago about Letchworth Garden City as an alternative to London hotels, I felt I should also mention another town with good quality accommodation and a view of the River Thames. Midweek rooms in London of good quality start around £180, even in a Premier Inn. But I had an excellent suite of three rooms to myself, overlooking the river, for £120 including a good breakfast, and only 22 minutes by High Speed 1 train from St. Pancras (which is right next door to Kings Cross). If I was looking for a family break close to London but without the capital’s prices, I would seriously consider Gravesend. Don’t let the name put you off. It’s where the river opens out into an estuary, with Tilbury over the other side of the river by ferry, with its interesting Tudor fort which has been used to defend the river until WW2. It was at Tilbury Fort that Queen Elizabeth, in 1588, rallied her troops against the Spanish Armada with the words “I know I have the body of a weak, feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too!” As well as visiting London itself, there are interesting places such as Rochester and Chatham Dockyard nearby, and shopping centres like Lakeside (on the north side) and Bluewater (on the south side) for those interested in that kind of thing. Don’t neglect the attractions of Gravesend itself though. The Guru Nanak Gurdwara is one of the largest Sikh temples in Europe and welcomes visitors – indeed all seekers after truth - particularly at weekends. It’s a short walk from the town centre, but best to avoid all tobacco and alcohol on the way. The Clock Tower is
14 | IN&AROUND
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famous locally, and has just been restored fully at a cost substantially more than the £679.20 it cost in 1887 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. The information panels state that the Tower is modelled on the lantern spire of Newcastle Cathedral, which was built in 1448. I did not know Newcastle Cathedral was that ancient, but having checked subsequently that is indeed true. My second visit to Gravesend this year saw me staying at the Clarendon Royal Hotel, which is on the riverside, a couple of hundred yards from the Port of London Authority Control Centre. Staff there monitor and direct all shipping on the Thames. Close by is the large New Tavern Fort which is now part of a large park, and was interesting to wander around in. There are lots of ancient pubs in the older quarter of the town, including the Three Daws which is a pub adjacent to the Town Pier for Tilbury, which has existed since around 1450 with the same name.
Gravesend was celebrating 400 years since Princess Pocahontas, of the Powhatan tribe of what is now Virginia, USA, arrived in the town on her way back to America, and sadly died there and was buried at St. George’s Church. I attended a ceremony in the church attended by many guests from the USA and enjoyed a sumptuous buffet in the Mayor’s Parlour afterwards. I even met three chiefs from Native American Indian tribes, shown in the picture underneath the statue of Pocahontas. The inadequate Disney film had her remaining in Virginia at the end of the story, but she actually came to England, was presented at Court, and died in Gravesend on 21 March 1617. I also attended a theatrical production the same evening until I was totally Pocahontased out! www.clarendonroyalhotel.co.uk
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IT’S THE €100 BILLION QUESTION: WHO SHOULD YOU VOTE FOR ON THE 8TH? Yes, that title is a deliberately tongue-in-cheek one, a reference to the reported “divorce bill” for the United Kingdom’s impending exit from the European Union. However, while the looming general election on 8th June
will certainly be shaped to a great extent by Brexit, it isn’t the only issue that will influence whose box the voters mark.
article being written, here’s our summary of what the four highest-polling ones had already talked about as this month’s issue of IN&AROUND went to press.
Although the major parties’ actual manifestos were yet to be published at the time of this
Conservatives
Liberal Democrats
As this article was being written, the polls continued to show the Tories enjoying a healthy lead over Labour.
Opposition to Brexit is set to dominate the Lib Dems’ electoral strategy. However, there have been suggestions of other pledges, such to place long-term homeless people straight into independent homes rather than emergency shelters to try to end rough sleeping.
Proposals already announced for their first election manifesto under Theresa May’s leadership included a promise to maintain Britain’s commitment to spend 0.7% of its national income on overseas aid, as well as a cap on energy bills for millions of consumers. As for Brexit, May is thought likely to declare that there will be an end to the free movement of EU citizens, the membership of the European single market and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.
Former leader Nick Clegg confirmed that the party’s manifesto would include a commitment to another EU referendum once talks are complete – the choice for voters being to accept the Brexit deal or stay in the EU. The party is also expected to argue in favour of the UK’s continued membership of the single market.
Labour
UK Independence Party
Even prior to the publication of its manifesto, Jeremy Corbyn’s party had outlined a range of pledges.
UKIP under Paul Nuttall’s leadership has appealed firmly to its core vote with its own first election manifesto after the Brexit vote. It has called for a ban on the full veils worn by some Muslim women, arguing that wearing a burka or niqab in public was a barrier to integration and a security risk.
They included a commitment to immediately halting all Tory hospital closure plans, the protection of police budgets, measures to cap class sizes in schools and a “rights for renters” pledge with new legal minimum standards. The party has said that its approach to Brexit will include a vote for Parliament on the final deal with the EU, the protection of the rights of EU citizens living in the UK and the introduction of an EU Rights and Protections Bill instead of the Great Repeal Bill proposed by the government.
Other pledges that have been confirmed for the party’s manifesto range from an explicit ban on the practice of Sharia law and the abolition of postal voting for most electors, to a moratorium on new Islamic faith schools and making a difference in race an aggravating factor in grooming offences.
Which way do you intend to vote, or have voted, in this year’s general election? Let us know your thoughts on what you consider to be the most pressing political issues for County Durham or the UK as a whole, and we may publish a selection of them in July’s IN&AROUND. 16 | IN&AROUND
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WHEN COUNTY DURHAM WAS ITS OWN KINGDOM: THE RULE OF THE PRINCE-BISHOPS
“There are two kings in England, namely the Lord King of England, wearing a crown in sign of his regality and the Lord Bishop of Durham wearing a mitre in place of a crown, in sign of his regality in the diocese of Durham.” These words have been quoted from the steward of Anthony Bek, who occupied the role of Bishop of Durham from 1284 until 1311. However, the sentiment would have remained just as relevant as recently as 1836, so far-reaching the bishops’ powers long were. How William the Conqueror helped the princebishops’ formation The prince-bishops of Durham ruled County Durham, practically an independent state within England, from 1075, when William the Conqueror vested the then-Bishop of Durham, William Walcher, with princely power. The prince-bishops could utilise extensive abilities within County Durham – including to hold their own parliaments, raise their own armies, administer their own laws, impose taxes and mint their own coins. Castles at Durham city and Bishop Auckland were essentially their “palaces” in which kingly lifestyles were theirs to enjoy. But how did the prince-bishops rise to such a unique and enviable position in the first place? A major root was in one especially challenging problem that William the Conqueror faced upon becoming King of England in 1066: how to subdue Northumbria. This area was geographically remote from his own southern base and not easy for him to comprehensively assert his authority over from there – as shown by his difficulties in doing so with the Harrying of the North in the 1069-70 winter. William therefore decided upon the solution of giving the Bishop of Durham, a position which had long held significant authority in this part of England, the powers of the Earl of Northumbria, previously a separate – and more political – position. Sadly, Walcher himself, while having the expected saintliness of a bishop, proved inept as 18 | IN&AROUND
a leader; unable to keep his subordinates in check, he provoked the public’s wrath and was murdered at Gateshead in 1080. The continuing rise and eventual fall of the prince-bishops Walcher’s fate did not deter the Conqueror’s son, William Rufus, from preserving his father’s Northumbrian policy. The next Bishop of Durham, William St Carileph, was also a prince-bishop – although this time, the powers of the role were largely limited to the southern part of Northumbria below the Tyne and Derwent rivers. In the main, this area is what we now know as County Durham. St Carileph was, compared to Walcher, much better-fitted to wielding power – and his County Palatine of Durham became a “buffer zone” defending civilised England from the often volatile region spanning the Northumbria-Scotland border. Nonetheless, the Palatine’s defensive function faded in necessity as England and Scotland slowly formed a political union eventually finalised by legislation in 1707. In 1836, an Act of Parliament abolished the role and powers of prince-bishop, bringing the administration of County Durham into line with those of other English counties. This left William Van Mildert, one of Durham University’s founders, the last palatinate Bishop of Durham.
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FEET FIRST PODIATRY - CHIROPODY HOME VISITING PRACTICE also available Pamper Parties - Gift Vouchers
Kim Pratt
B.Sc (Hons) M.Ch.S. HPC REG
Tel: 01207 281015 07939189267
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CHILDREN’S ROLE PLAY EXPERIENCE 4 SESSIONS PER DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK
TIMES: 9:30-11:00am, 11:30-1:00pm, 1:30-3:00pm & 3:30-5:00pm
DROP IN IS AVAILABLE AT SESSION TIMES BUT BOOKING YOUR SESSION IS ADVISED.
Go BIG with your play and enjoy time with your kids while they learn through play, meet other children and make new friends. Check out our website to see what weekly activities alongside our ROLE PLAY we have for you and your little one to enjoy together. At lets Play Big we love to host CHILDREN’S PARTIES, we can tailor each party around your needs and aim to make your party stress free so you can focus on having FUN. We can host parties upto 30 kids!!
Unit 12 Donkin Rd, Washington, Tyne & Wear, NE37 1PF Tel: 07415 056 992 Email: hello@letsplaybig.co.uk Website: www.letsplaybig.co.uk
MARY’S FISHING TACKLE E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 Y E A R S S TOC K LIS T S O F L IV E BAIT GREAT SELECTION OF FISHING TACKLE
25, Front Street, Sacriston, DH7 6JS
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Over 25 years experience Car Body Repair Service based in Chester-le-Street, we offer a professional service for all aspects of car and van body repairs. With over 25 years experience a quality repair is guaranteed. Dent Removal Stone Chips
Scratch Repairs Panel Rust Spots
Bumper Repairs Alloy Wheel Repairs
189c Front St, Chester-le-Street, Durham, DH3 3AX (Behind Seven Pub) T 0191 387 3104 M 07919 921 885 E skpanelandpaint@hotmail.co.uk
www.skpanelandpaint.co.uk
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please get in touch today! For more information about our residentials turethroughsport.co.uk Tel: (01207) 233977 • www.realadven 24 | IN&AROUND
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sponsors
Competition Corner
TWO PRIZES TO BE WON wordsearch D B B E P I C N I C A F
E A B S U N E A C A Z L S P I U M N E A L D F T E O S H P C N I W S D G
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Your nearest restaurant is: Frankie & Benny’s, Arnison Retail Park, Durham, DH1 5GB Tel. 0191 384 4141 Connect with us: /FrankieBennys
@frankienbennys
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Thanks to Frankie & Benny’s you now have twice the chance to win, with two £25 vouchers up for grabs. Simply complete either of the competitions, fill in the entry form and send to the postal address provided. Vouchers are valid at any Frankie & Benny’s restaurant.
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ENTRY FORM Name: Address:
Postcode: Email: Competition end date 15th JUNE 2017 The winner will receive a letter from JAK HQ within 14 days of the competition closing date. Send all entries to: Competition Department, Unit 4, Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY www.inandaroundonline.co.uk | 25
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GREENTHUMB SOWS SEEDS OF SUCCESS GreenThumb lawn treatment service continues to grow across the region.
Fusarium, as well as pests such as leatherjackets and chafer grubs.
Since GreenThumb Durham started in May 2000, the family-run business has proved to be a great success.
Water conserver and growth regulator treatments are also available. These services by GreenThumb professionals costs less than some D.I.Y products on the market.
Owners Adrian Russell, wife Janet and daughter Lisa expanded the business in 2013 by launching a neighbouring franchise in Tyne Tees, and now the company has thousands of customers throughout the area. A team of five lawn operatives work hard to keep the region’s lawns looking lush, covering the following areas: Durham, Consett, Chester-leStreet, Birtley, Washington, Sunderland, Peterlee, Seaham, Gateshead, South Northumberland, Hexham and Derwentside. Services include: fertilizing, weed spraying, moss control, hollow-tine aeration and scarification. The team also tackle other common problems such as Red Thread and 26 | IN&AROUND
Adrian said: “Our aim is to continue to expand with an order book full of satisfied customers.” GreenThumb Durham and Tyne Tees also run a recommend a friend scheme. If you are satisfied with their service, why not recommend a friend or family member and receive £10 off your next appointment. Direct Debit payment is accepted and there’s discount available on various gardening packages. Gift vouchers are also available
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WHAT’S ON IN THE NORTH-EAST Take part in the Newcastle Bridges Walk and show your support for Kidney Research UK. Starting and finishing at the Baltic Centre, the walk covers approximately seven miles taking you over some of Newcastle’s most famous bridges. The day kicks off at 10am, when you collect your purple balloon, water and snack bar ready for the walk. Entertainment will begin at 10.30am, followed by a warm-up to loosen you up. The ribbon will be cut at 11am, and then off you go. Once you’ve completed the walk, you’ll be awarded with a shiny medal and a big cheer.
Newcastle Bridges Walk
The Baltic Centre, Newcastle - 11th June
This event is suitable for all members of the family (including canine companions), whether young or old, and the route is accessible for prams and wheelchairs too. There’s a £10 registration fee for adults and children can register for free. Log on to www.kidneyresearchuk. org/get-involved/events/newcastlebridgeswalk, call 0300 303 1100 or email: events@kidneyresearchuk.org to find out more.
Don’t forget Father’s Day is coming up on the 18th June. Give your celebration a unique twist by heading down to the National Glass Centre to take part in one of their workshops. You’ll have the opportunity to make a mould in sand, then watch as the studio team pour molten glass into it to produce your own individual piece of art, which you can paint and decorate. You’ll have an unforgettable day and a piece of glass work to treasure. The workshops take place on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th June, 9.30 – 10.30 / 10.30 – 11.30 / £15 each / Min age 6. If you haven’t visited already, The National Glass Centre provides a great day out. The centre hosts a plethora of intriguing exhibits, a café serving delicious food, a gift shop that will solve your present-buying problems and the perfect standpoint from which to watch the Port of Sunderland. The National Glass Centre holds regular workshops, guided tours and Father’s Day Sandcast Car special events, log on to nationalglasscentre.com/about/whatson/ to find National Glass Centre, Sunderland – 17th or 18th June out more, call 0191 568 9700 or email: info@nationalglasscentre.com
Step back 800 years and take up a rare opportunity to see all three issues of Durham Cathedral’s Magna Carta, one of the most important British documents of all time and a text which remains influential today. The exhibition will display the only surviving copy of the 1216 issue, and further issues from 1225 and 1300. These will be displayed alongside their associated Forest Charters, from 1217, 1225 and 1300. It’s the first time these documents have been displayed together and a chance to learn more about their continued influence, and their impact on the region. Tickets are £2.50 - £7.50 available from the Visitor Desk in the Cathedral, the Open Treasure Welcome Desk, and in advance from www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/open-treasure/book.
Magna Carta and the Forest Charters
Open Treasure, Durham Cathedral – 19th June to 9th Sept 28 | IN&AROUND
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SPECIALIST IN KITCHENS, BATHROOMS & BEDROOMS QUALITY PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES 25 Years Experience We Offer: • Bespoke Bathrooms • Bespoke Kitchens • Bespoke Bedrooms • Showers & Cubicles • Bathroom Furniture • Wall & Floor Tiles VISIT OUR LUXURY SHOWROOM • Wet Rooms SEE IN STORE SPECIAL OFFERS • Worktops & Sinks • Mirrors & Accessories • Appliances • Full Project Management • Supply Only • Full Installation • Free Planning Service • Free Estimate
Bathrooms & Kitchens Ltd.
Unit 2, Abercorn House, Hobson Ind. Est, Burnopfield, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE16 6EA
www.jonpyebathroomsandkitchens.co.uk Tel: 01207 271 873 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
FAST - FRIENDLY - RELIABLE
THE WHITE ROOM GALLERY
Art Cafe - Gifts - Music
PAINTING & DECORATING INTERIOR + EXTERIOR
PRIVATE + COMMERCIAL TOUCH OF CLASS DECORATING
DECORATING SINCE 2002 NO JOB TOO SMALL
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BESPOKE QUALITY PICTURE FRAMING GIFTS - CARDS - ORIGINAL PRINTS LIMITED EDITION PRINTS - OPEN PRINTS AND MUCH MORE! LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC - EVERY WEDNESDAY 1PM ROOM AVAILABLE FOR HIRE
15 Station Rd, Stanley, DH9 0JL Tel: 01207 238957 eMail: info@thewhiteroomgalleryshop.co.uk
ABACUS Roofing & Property Maintenance
Mobile Bicycle Repairs
County Durham’s own bike mechanic
Cytech qualified, Pick-up/Drop-off
07985 321203
THE FIRM YOU CAN COUNT ON FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING AND PROPERTY NEEDS. All Roofs • Felt & Fiber Glass Roofs Rubber Roofs • Slating & Tiling Ridge Tiles Replaced • Ridge Tiles Repointed 40 year guarantee on all flat roofs All insurance work undertaken Certificates available on Request Free Estimates, Fully Insured
TEL:
0191 384 8355 0778 711 6191
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Since Moderno Furniture & Accessories started in October 2008 in Stockton, moving to Durham the family-run business has proved to be a great success offering the UNIQUE and the UNUSUAL. Owners Jac Charlton and her daughter Anelise expanded in February 2012, moving premises to open its doors in the empty [previously occupied by Chameleon] showroom on Team Valley on Dukesway, right at the other end to the retail park. Two staff members Julia and Angela join them in the two floor showroom Opening hours are 9.30 - 5.00 Monday to Saturday and 11.00 – 5.00 Sunday. Closed Bank Holidays. Moderno is a rare breed, an independent furniture and accessory retailer, owned and loved by the people who are there every day for you. The experienced team look to find out just what you the customer are looking for, delivering the highest customer service standards at all times.
UNUSUAL furniture and accessories from the UK and around the world. Moderno offers quality furniture and accessories at affordable prices, without the need to artificially inflate prices to then reduce them in a seasonal sale. You’ll find examples of varying finishes of furniture, top of the range hides and throws personally selected by Jac and Anelise, unique and unusual lighting , wall art, clocks, bespoke items, mirrors, and much more. Not only is the showroom often described as an Aladdins Cave, it is constantly changing with exciting new deliveries nearly every week day. Moderno has over 50 suppliers from all over the world. We will talk with you and listen to what you want, and source that special “piece” for your home or business. So, come in and browse at your leisure any day of the week, including Saturdays and Sundays to find your perfect piece. Making your home your own.
Mother and daughter share over 30 years of furniture experience and expertise between them and they are constantly sourcing UNIQUE and
moderno furniture Moderno Furniture is a rare breed, an independent and unique furniture retailer.
The moderno experience Offering the UNIQUE and the UNUSUAL furniture and accessories from the UK and around the world. You’ll find examples of varying finishes of furniture, top of the range hides and throws, unique and unusual lighting, wall art, clocks, bespoke items, mirrors, and much more...
ALL AT AFFORDABLE PRICES COME AND VISIT US:
TEAM VALLEY SHOWROOM Opposite end to the retail park
0191 491 4000 | 0773 892 4714
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEE K
No 1 Dukesway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0PZ | Email: info@modernofurniture.co.uk 30 | IN&AROUND
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Friday 13th October 2017 Tickets £23.50 / £22.50 - 7:30pm The Alun Armstrong Theatre, Civic Hall Stanley
Box Office: 01207 299 110 Book Online at www.civichallstanley.co.uk
M.V. MOBILITY MOBILE SHOWROOM EST 2003
Scooters from
£295
Adjustable Beds from
£595
• Wheelchairs, bath lifts and stair lifts • No obligation free home demonstrations • Service & Repair at your home
Lift Recline Chairs from
£495
Call Michael on
01325 931032 / 0191 484 61 72
The Cambridge Range RRP £2400 SPECIAL PRICE £1595
Colours; oxblood, antique brown, tan, green and blue. 0191 388 2505 (8am - 6pm) 07701 038655 (Out of Hours)
22 North Burns, Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham, DH3 3TF chesterfieldsofasnortheast.co.uk
Advertise in IN&AROUND from £50+VAT
Call 0191 388 2698 for more information.
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¤ FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS ¤ REPAIRS ¤ TAPS ¤ TOILETS ¤
GRANGE PLUMBING SERVICES
ALL LEAKS, BURSTS, DRIPS AND BLOCKAGES.
NO JOB TOO SMALL NORMALLY SAME DAY SERVICE FREE QUOTES
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Tel: 0191 3700648 Mob: 07949 018018
• ALL TYPES OF FURNITURE • RECOVER REPAIR & RESTORE • LARGE RANGE OF PATTERNS • CUSHION INTERIORS & SPRINGS
CALL: 01429 881937
Visit: www.trimdonupholstery.co.uk
¤ SHOWERS ¤ SINKS ¤ RADIATORS ¤ BATHS ¤ TANKS ¤ PUMPS ¤
PLAY & LEARN
FREE for 2, 3 4 year olds and
Childcare at it’s best from 0-5 Call: 0191 4111488 St. Benet’s Way, Ouston, Chester-le-Street DH2 1QX
www.edengardennursery.com 32 | IN&AROUND
PATIO PAVING Direct From The Factory
PAVING THE NORTH EAST FOR 20 YEARS Huge choice of colours and designs, feature circle kits and patio packs, we have it all!
WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE! DELIVERIES THROUGHOUT THE NORTH EAST www.pavingfactory.co.uk FRONT STREET COXHOE, DH6 4LD
TEL 0191 377 32 72
Open to trade and public
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The Ultimate Driving Machine
BMW ON MOTABILITY. OUR RANGE IS WITHIN YOURS. BMW 2 SERIES GRAN TOURER 7 SEATER. AVAILABLE FROM £1,499 ADVANCE PAYMENT.*
BMW is proud to be associated with Motability.
Contact Cooper Durham today on 0191 502 0482 to find out more.
Cooper Durham
Broomside Park, Belmont Industrial Estate, Durham DH1 1HP 0191 502 0482 www.cooperdurhambmw.co.uk Official Fuel Economy Figures for the BMW Range: Extra Urban 26.2-83.1mpg (10.8-3.4l/100km). Urban 14.6-64.2mpg (19.3-4.4l/100km). Combined 20.3-74.3mpg (13.9-3.8l/100km). CO2 emissions 325-99g/km. Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions. *The BMW range available on the Motability Contract Hire Car Scheme starts from £1,499 Advance Payment for the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer 7 Seater. Price is correct at time of going to press for orders placed and accepted between 1 January and 31 March 2017, subject to availability and change without notice. All models on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme include optional metallic paint at no extra cost. Models featured may include options at an additional cost. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of either the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request.
MINI MOTABILITY. ACCESS ALL AREAS. The MINI range starts from £0 Advance Payment* and delivers the perfect fusion of versatility, economy and performance as well as head-turning customisation options. Combine that with the benefits of the Motability scheme and there’s never been a better time to get into a new MINI.
MINI COOPER 3-DOOR HATCH.
MINI COOPER SEVEN 3-DOOR HATCH.
MINI COOPER CLUBMAN.
AVAILABLE FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT.*
AVAILABLE FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT.*
AVAILABLE FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT.*
CONTACT OUR MOTABILITY SPECIALISTS AT COOPER DURHAM ON 0191 502 0482 TO FIND OUT MORE OR BOOK A TEST DRIVE.† Cooper Durham Broomside Park, Belmont Industrial Estate, Durham DH1 1HP 0191 502 0482 www.cooperdurhammini.co.uk Official Fuel Economy Figures for the MINI Range: Urban 26.6-72.4 mpg (10.6-3.9 l/100km). Extra Urban 46.3-91.1 mpg (6.1-3.1 l/100km). Combined 36.7-83.1 mpg (7.7-3.4 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 179-89g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *The MINI range available on the Motability Contract Hire Car Scheme starts from £0 Advance Payment for the MINI Cooper 3-door Hatch. Models shown are the MINI Cooper 3-door Hatch from £0 Advance Payment, MINI Cooper Seven 3-door Hatch from £0 Advance Payment, and the MINI Cooper Clubman from £0 Advance Payment. Prices are correct at time of going to print for orders placed and accepted between 1 January and 31 March 2017. All models on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme include optional metallic paint at no extra cost. Models featured may include options at an additional cost. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of either the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request. †Test drive subject to status and availability.
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NORTH EASTS HIDDEN GEMS Durham Dales
What actually happens in the Durham Dales? Little, you might say – and this, you might add, is actually a strong part of the area’s appeal. Now, when we say “little”, we really mean in terms of human activity. The Durham Dales, which mainly covers County Durham’s share of the range of hills known as the North Pennines, is the least populous part of the county, despite taking up about a third of its geographical area. It is, for the most part, wildlife that has made this space its habitat. Not that the wildlife would necessarily mind you making a visit – as long as you remember to tread carefully and keep the noise down while you’re doing it. In a County Durham-themed episode of Countryfile aired in April, one of the BBC One show’s regular presenters, Ellie Harrison,
showed viewers from across the country what to expect during a Durham Dales stay. She observed that the area, which consists of moorlands, hills, mountains, valleys and – unsurprisingly, given the area’s name – dales, is “famed for its natural beauty and tranquility”. She went on to point out that the River Tees actually starts life here – and that, while the only sounds you often hear in this area are those of wind and flowing water, it’s a different matter come spring. That’s when the breeding season starts for wading birds of many species – and the Durham Dales can become noisier with oystercatcher, northern lapwing, golden plover and, possibly, what Ellie says she would be lucky to hear:“the distinctive warbling call of the curlew”.
Civic Hall, Stanley Remember the Lamplight Arts Centre? It’s still there in its familiar spot in Stanley, north Durham. However, it’s now called the Civic Hall – and the name change is fitting, given the many changes that the venue has undergone during the last few years. The theatre was actually built as long ago as 1961, and our older readers might have many fond memories of times spent there. However, about four years ago, it was on the verge of closure… before Stanley Town Council intervened. 34 | IN&AROUND
Today, the venue is undoubtedly blooming – and a shining jewel in the County Durham town’s crown. While theatre shows, musicals and other live performances are regularly staged here, the venue is also available for booking for various other purposes – including weddings, training events and corporate dinners. The Civic Hall even has a coffee shop open six days a week, while a couple of bars add to the range of drinking opportunities for the venue’s visitors.
The Civic Hall houses the Alun Armstrong Theatre, as it was recently renamed. The moniker commemorates the namesake actor, who was responsible for unveiling the plaque recording the renaming. Armstrong was born in the County Durham village of Annfield Plain in 1946 and despite roles in films including Braveheart and Van Helsing, has stayed in touch with his roots in County Durham, a filming setting for last year’s TV drama Dark Angel, in which he also appeared.
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BeeMyHome
Online estate agency BeeMyHome is delighted to welcome customers to its first high street store in Chester le Street market place. The store, which features bespoke technology designed by Inovica, is the first of its kind with coffee and comfy sofas to welcome our customers and a free Landlord health check to help self-managing Landlords comply with legislation. Victoria Valentine, Director for BeeMyHome commented “We’re very excited about our first store. We identified a gap in the market for a modern agency and are keen to give Landlords and Homebuyers the chance to experience an innovative new approach to what has traditionally been
a very insipid industry. We hope that the new store will add convenience for our existing customers, as well as allowing us the opportunity to introduce the BeeMyHome way of working, to many new customers in the area.” BeeMyHome has recently gained recognition through the PropertyMark ARLA accreditation scheme and adheres to a strict Code of Conduct. The business was also shortlisted for the 2016 Employer Champion of the Year through PropertyMark ARLA. Victoria added “We’re delighted to be able to give this additional peace of mind to customers in an otherwise largely unregulated industry. We look forward to showing people what we can do!”
NEED HELP FINDING THE PERFECT HOME? We are here to help you buy, sell, let and manage your properties in the North East of England. We have friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff and a portfolio of affordable, quality homes. Our costs are always transparent and checked regularly against other industry leaders to ensure we remain competitive.
VISIT THE BRAND NEW STORE IN CHESTER-LE-STREET. info@beemyhome.co.uk 0191 389 7299 www.beemyhome.co.uk 7-9 Front Street, Chester le Street, DH3 3BQ 36 | IN&AROUND
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WHAT’S ON TV THIS MONTH Orange Is the New Black
The Last Leg, Election Specials
This brilliant American comedy-drama is more than merely Netflix’s most-watched original series - it has also won a huge number of UK fans. It is based on Piper Kerman’s 2010 memoir, Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison, and stars Taylor Schilling as Piper Chapman, the privileged New Yorker who finds herself incarcerated after being charged as a drug runner a decade earlier.
The topical comedy show with Adam Hills, Alex Brooker and Josh Widdicombe has proved a big hit since its original run alongside the 2012 Paralympics, its mix of comedy and guests having made for side-splitting alternative looks at the latest news stories.
Netflix
Channel 4
The previous fourth season on the show left us on a true cliff-hanger, as the inmates at Litchfield prison took part in a major riot after the accidental killing of Poussey Washington (Samira Wiley). Amid the chaos, prison guard Thomas Humphrey (Michael Torpey) is pushed over and finds himself with a gun to his head, as the inmates urge Daya Diaz (Dascha Polanco) to pull the trigger. With the synopsis for the new series explaining that it picks up “right where we left off”, we can safely predict that it will begin in suitably explosive fashion. Keep an eye out for it on Netflix on 9th June.
Now, it’s back for the 2017 UK election, and we can only hope that it lives up to previous memorable editions of the programme, such as one featuring the then-Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, which saw him call Boris Johnson “more of a t**” than a statesman and admit he wanted to slap Prime Minister David Cameron on multiple occasions. With past election specials of the show having had the likes of Clegg, Piers Morgan, Jeremy Paxman, Kathy Burke, Ed Balls and Richard Osman as guests, it’s fair to say we can expect comedy fireworks and at least a little more insight into the antics of May, Corbyn, Farron et al in the process.
Poldark BBC One
The first, 2015 series of Poldark - based on the first two Poldark novels by Winston Graham - won Being Human star Aidan Turner and his, erm, chest a new legion of admirers. We got a second series last year, which compensated for its lack of windswept shirtlessness with a bevy of attentiongrabbing storylines. So, what can we expect from the third series that airs this month? This British-American drama series, for those who are unaware, centres on the story of Ross Poldark (Turner), who returns from the late 18th-century American War of Independence to his Cornish copper mines, after three years spent in the army to avoid smuggling charges - only to find his former life in disarray. The new series is inspired by the fifth and sixth books of the original Poldark novels, The Black Moon and The Four Swans, and picks up immediately after the last series. Expect plenty of drama to be provided by the pregnancy of Elizabeth (Heida Reed), amid suggestions that her unborn child could be Ross’s, rather than her dastardly hubbie George Warleggan’s (Jack Farthing). 38 | IN&AROUND
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Chester-le-Street
Tel: 0191 3894331
Services and Repairs
All your motoring issues including : Brakes | Suspension | Cambelt | Flat Battery | Tyres | Servicing | Clutches | Exhausts Vehicle Remapping | Advanced Diagnostics | Body Welding | Electric Fault Finding
All makes & Models Covered MD Autos, 189 Front Steet, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3AX
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Classic car sales, servicing, spares and restoration
www.classicandretroautos.co.uk
If you need all round sales, spares and restoration garage in the North East of England feel free to call for friendly advice and information.
We buy classic cars & unwanted projects Restoration work is £25 per hour +VAT
Mobile: 07438548651 | Office: 0191 3730086 | Email: classicandretro@hotmail.com Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 (Viewing outside of these hours be appointment) Twitter: /classicandretr0 | Facebook: /classicandretroautosltd
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