Widening Horizons December 2011

horizons widening

December 2011

Festive fun – what’s o and wh n ere!

ins o j y b b A n m u t u a our leaves ! n campaig

Also inside...

Fund helps local projects

Update on your area forum Nominate your sporting hero

www.northtyneside.gov.uk twitter.com/NTCouncilTeam

How to get in touch with North Tyneside Council

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We want to make it easy for you to contact the council – and that includes in person, by phone, by letter, online or by email.

In person

You can call in at one of our customer service centres, located throughout the borough. Staff can provide advice and information on a range of council services, including housing and benefits.

Our centres are based at:

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White Swan Centre, Killingworth

Unicorn House, Suez Street, North Shields Park Road,Wallsend

Victoria Terrace,Whitley Bay

By phone If you have a general enquiry, you can phone the council’s contact centre on 0345 2000 101 between 7.30am and 8pm, Monday to Friday. (Please note: the centre takes a high volume of calls each day and can be very busy at peak times.)

Other main numbers are:

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Housing and Kier repairs 0345 2000 102

Environmental matters (including weeds and potholes) 0345 2000 103 Council tax and benefits 0345 2000 104 Racial incidents 0345 2000 105 Payments 0345 2000 107

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Families Information Service 0345 2000 108

For concerns about a child – (0191) 643 7979 Emergencies (24hrs) (0191) 200 6800

Social care (out-of-hours) 0300 123 0812

By letter You can write to:

North Tyneside Council, Quadrant, The Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside NE27 0BY.

Online The council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk – contains plenty of information on a wide range of subjects.

You can apply for planning permission, pay your council tax or report an incident of flytipping. Page after page is available at the click of a mouse.

Email You can also contact the council via: contact.us@northtyneside.gov.uk

For environmental issues: envirolink@northtyneside.gov.uk

For housing repairs: nt.repairs@kier.co.uk

For the Families Information Service: fis@northtyneside.gov.uk

How to contact your councillor

North Tyneside Council is made up of 20 geographic areas called wards.

Each ward has three elected councillors who represent you and your views.

If you would like to meet your local ward councillor, their contact details, and the dates and times of their ward surgeries, are available on the council website. (Click on ‘council and democracy’ then ‘councillors’).

You can also phone the Customer and Member Liaison Office on (0191) 643 2280.

How to report a hate crime

The ARCH network allows people living or working in North Tyneside – or just visiting the borough – to report incidents of hate crime.

You can report an incident if you are the victim; reporting on behalf of the victim; a witness or an agency worker who feels the incident needs to be reported.

The victim decides what happens next – they may want advice from Victim Support but not want the police involved.

ARCH allows supporting agencies to work together to ensure the right support is offered as quickly as possible.

The 24-hour freephone number is 08000 32 32 88.

You can also report an incident at any North Tyneside customer service centre (see list opposite), the Refugee Integration Service (Town Hall,Wallsend), Victim Support (Albion House, North Shields), Wallsend People’s Centre (Frank Street, Wallsend), UniversalYouth and Connexions Services (Wooley Street,Wallsend and Russell Street, North Shields) and Amanda Nicole School of Dance (Bewicke Road, Willington Quay).

horizons widening

December 2011

The council produces Widening Horizons four times a year for the residents of North Tyneside.

Our aim is to keep you informed about what the council and its partners are doing to improve life for people in the borough.

The magazine is delivered to more than 90,000 households across the borough. Copies are also available at council facilities, including libraries, leisure centres and community centres.

Every effort is made to ensure that all information is correct at the time of publication.

If you would like to contact the council, the general enquiries number is 0345 2000 101 (between 7.30am and 8pm, Monday to Friday).You can also email contact.us@northtyneside.go.uk or visit the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk

For more ways of getting in touch with the council, including in person or by letter, please see opposite page.

The next issue of Widening Horizons will be published in March 2012.

North Tyneside Council wants to make it easier for you to obtain the information you need.

We can provide Widening Horizons in Braille, audiotape, large print and other languages.

For information on other formats, please call (0191) 643 5080.

Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it.

This magazine has been distributed by Leaflet Distribution N.E. on behalf of North Tyneside Council.

If you have any queries or problems regarding distribution, please contact the company on (0191) 438 5444 or email sales@leafletdistributionne.co.uk Front cover: Seven year-old Abby Turnbull joins in the launch of the council’s autumn environment campaign at Burradon Primary School.

For more details of this year’s campaign, see page 15.

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Christm what’s as on star ts p – 29

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Inside this issue

Mayor’s message

5

State of the Area event

6

Wash, squash and recycle

14

Area Forum update

18

16-19 Bursary

28

North Tyneside Sports Awards

38

Aaron takes centre stage!

45

Annual Report

56

Keep it Local

60

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley talks about the key issues facing the borough.

Representatives of local groups and organisations discuss the future of North Tyneside.

Find out how you could win shopping vouchers worth from £20 to £1,000.

Check out what’s happening in your area in our special four-page section.

A new scheme could help some students with the cost of education or training.

Your chance to nominate a local sports star – it could be a player, coach or official.

Performing arts graduate Aaron Phillips sets up a new stage school for local youngsters.

What the council spends your money on – and how it is making a difference.

Need a plumber or a painter? Four pages of classified adverts featuring local businesses.

To discuss news or advertising, please contact Steve Forshaw on (0191) 643 5080 or email: steve.forshaw@northtyneside.gov.uk NTC GRAPHICS 07/11 4072JWI

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Make a pledge to wash, squash and recycle your plastic bottles.

You can then guess the number of bottles in the recycling bin for the chance to win ÂŁ1,000 in shopping vouchers.

Dozens of ÂŁ20 vouchers to be won as spot prizes too.

Make your pledge at www.northtyneside.gov.uk/squash or call 0345 2000 106

Mayor’s message council operates and the services we

provide.We are committed to using our

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resources wisely and maximising our ability

Dear Resident, As North Tyneside Council moves forward

Achieving this means the council has to

You may have already seen in the media

that one of the things we are doing is

looking at different ways of delivering

into a New Year, I am sure you will agree

services to meet the financial challenges.

ensuring residents are involved in shaping

We have already visited other councils to

that delivering value for money and

decisions have to be among our priorities.

The latest Residents’ Survey, which you can

read about in this issue, is a great example of how we are doing both.

We used the expertise within the

organisation to deliver the project

ourselves – saving £70,000. And the overall

results of the survey provide us with a

valuable insight into what you think we are doing well, and where we can improve.

I am delighted that the hard work by our

see some different examples of successful

joint-working in delivering services.

What we are doing now is exploring what

would work best for the residents of

North Tyneside.

We used the recent State of the Area

shortly. Along with the recently

completed interim junction, this will

to respond to your priorities.

think differently about how it does things.

The second Tyne Tunnel is due to open

help ease congestion.

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The new Big Society Community

Investment Fund is making a difference

to groups and projects across the

borough.

As we move towards Christmas, there are

plenty of events taking place in North

Tyneside – many with a festive theme.You

can read about what’s happening in our

town centres; see who is appearing at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay and, of course,

find out what’s on at Christmas in our comprehensive listings guide.

event as an opportunity to get our

We will continue to deliver essential

new ways of working.

our more vulnerable residents, and would

partners involved in sharing ideas about

The feedback we have received from

residents and partners – and the

engagement we will be doing around the Council Plan and proposed budget – will

services throughout the holiday period to

urge everyone to help us keep people safe by being a good neighbour and offering

support, particularly to those who live alone or are elderly.

staff has helped to increase how satisfied

help us shape the organisation for the

On behalf of everyone at North Tyneside

compared to 43 per cent in 2008.

need to deliver.

peaceful and happy Christmas and all the

Similarly, people love North Tyneside and

I can say that while there are obviously

people feel with the council – 57 per cent

appreciate what it has to offer. Satisfaction

future and achieve the efficiencies we

look forward to in the New Year:

per cent since 2008.

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I will continue to listen to what you have to

say, both good and bad, about the way the

best for the New Year.

challenges for us, there is also much to

with the borough as a place to live has

risen to 80 per cent – an increase of 15

Council, I would like to wish you all a

The Enterprise Zone is progressing

Linda Arkley

and we hope to hear shortly about

successful Regional Growth Fund bids across North Tyneside.

5

State of the Area event council’s vision for the

Representatives from all sections of

and look at alternative ways to deliver

share their views on the council’s

“The starting point for our discussions is

the borough have come together to

vision for the future.

They have given their feedback on a range of options that would see some council

some of its services.

the inescapable fact that things are

changing for the council and, indeed, all of us,” said Mrs Arkley.

services delivered differently if the

“We are not going to be able to do what

the authority and residents.

activity. People’s needs and expectations

proposed changes can be seen to benefit The State of the Area event is an annual opportunity for residents, officers and

councillors to meet representatives from the police, health service, voluntary and

community sector, fire and rescue service

and members of the business community,

to discuss the council’s plan for the future.

Welcoming the audience, Elected Mayor

Linda Arkley restated the council’s

commitment to deliver better outcomes

people are used to, both in scope and

are also changing yet our economy needs

to continue to grow.

“So we are looking at what we do and

how we do it.We are asking difficult and

critical questions about delivery and looking

for measures that will cost less.”

Mrs Arkley said old established models of

service would have to be reviewed, not just

to deliver services more efficiently , but also to give people a better quality of services.

“We cannot rule anything in, or out, at this

stage,” she added.“We are looking at every

part of the business – how it is done, how

it could be done and how we can mobilise our resources and expertise with that of others to best effect.”

The audience was asked to help explore

some of the new models available that

would see the council forge partnerships

with public, private, voluntary and community sector organisations to deliver services.

Their feedback will be considered

alongside the views of residents during a series of area forum meetings and the

results of the Residents’ Survey.

for residents, businesses and visitors.

The authority’s vision for the future will

focus on making North Tyneside a place where:

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People can grow up, learn and live

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More businesses can grow and be

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Visitors will come back again and again.

safely and healthily.

successful.

But to achieve this commitment, in a

challenging financial climate, means the

council will need to do things differently

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Category State of the goesArea here, e.g. EVENTS

Vision: Elected Mayor Linda Arkley with Paul Woolston, chair of the North East Local Enterprise Partnership.

discusses future Priorities to guide decision-making Any decisions that are taken will need to

help the council deliver its seven priorities

for service provision.

These are: ●

Supporting people to be healthy and independent, and protecting the vulnerable.

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Making change happen, improving

Feedback: Paul Hanson, strategic director for Community Services, talks to youth councillor Erin Smith and Deputy Young Mayor Mark Strassine.

customer service and facing up to our financial challenges.

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Delivering sustainable growth.

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Delivering excellent education, skills

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Protecting and enhancing the

and employment opportunities.

environment.

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Creating safe and secure communities.

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Helping people to make a positive

with similar services provided around the country.

feedback on the future of the council.

This has resulted in a programme which

This will shape the Strategic Plan and

will focus on delivering remodelled and

improved services and achieving

efficiencies around three themes: ●

contribution.

part of the council’s Change, Efficiency and

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they cost to deliver and how they compare

feedback@northtyneside.gov.uk

– including focusing on personalisation

Business – including improving the

council’s commercial capacity and

exploring delivery models for different ways of working.

This has already involved undertaking a full outcomes are delivered for residents, what

To have your say, please email

partnership with other organisations.

Improvement programme.

review of every service to consider what

Children, education and adults services

budget for the next three years.

services, improving trading and

Decisions on how services will be

delivered or changed are being made as

Many residents have already given their

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Environment – including saving on the

Follow us at

twitter.com/ NTCouncilTeam

For latest events, news and information

council’s energy costs and reducing

fleet and transport costs.

7

Feedback helps shape future services

Feedback from a survey of 4,000 residents is helping the council to shape services.

Questionnaires were posted out to a

random sample of residents, asking for

their perceptions and satisfaction ratings

with their local area, council services and health and well-being issues.

Satisfaction with North Tyneside as a

place to live, and the quality of life it offers,

registered 80 per cent – an increase of five

per cent on a similar survey in 2008.

Joint working between partners to tackle

crime and anti-social behaviour and make practical improvements, such as better

street lighting, has contributed to more people feeling safe in the borough.

Ninety four per cent said they felt safe

during the day while 60 per cent felt safe

at night, an increase of 12 per cent.

There was a 14 per cent increase in

Full details of the Residents’ Survey are

things (57 per cent, compared with 43 per

the council website –

satisfaction with how the council runs

cent in 2008) and a 15 per cent increase in those who consider the authority delivers

value for money (45 per cent, compared

to 30 per cent).

Meanwhile, the council’s commitment to

encouraging community involvement and

giving people an active role through the

area forums has seen the number of people

who feel they can influence decisions rise

to 35 per cent from 27 per cent.

available from the Datastore section of

www.northtyneside.gov.uk

People who use council services

recorded high levels of satisfaction in certain key areas, including: ●

Beaches (95 per cent)

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Kerbside recycling (88 per cent)

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Primary and first schools (85 per

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Secondary and middle schools

More than half of the residents surveyed

had contacted the council with an enquiry

or problem in the last 12 months and 75

per cent of these found staff helpful. Fifty

cent)

(82 per cent)

four per cent were satisfied with the final

outcome when they contacted the council

while 53 per cent said getting hold of the

right person was easy.

Golden sands: The borough’s beaches recorded a very high level of satisfaction in the Residents’ Survey.

The Residents’ Survey identified three

areas that people felt should be a

priority for improvement: ●

Community involvement and

influence in local decision-making – 65 per cent believe they cannot

influence decisions. However,

almost two-thirds of residents said,

depending on the issue, they would

like to be involved in decisions about their area. ●

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Road and pavement maintenance –

suggested by 64 per cent.

Activities for teenagers (13 years or older) – suggested by 35 per cent.

8

We’re ready for the winter

The council is more prepared than ever to help keep the borough moving this winter.

In readiness for any cold snap, North Tyneside has stockpiled 6,000 tonnes of rock salt.

It’s the most the council has ever held and is 500 tonnes more than last year, which saw the coldest winter on record.

Fifteen gritting vehicles, all fitted with snowploughs and vehicle tracking, are ready to treat the borough’s 240-mile network of main roads and bus routes.

Should North Tyneside experience heavy snowfall and extreme conditions,

the council will go beyond its statutory requirement by also clearing and pre-salting lower priority routes – but obviously only after the main priority roads are cleared.

This includes treating areas around sheltered accommodation and town centres as well as where it will help with refuse collections.

The A19 is salted and cleared by the Highways Agency and is not the responsibility of North Tyneside Council.

Meanwhile, an extra 20 grit bins have been installed this year, in addition to around 200 already in place across the borough.

Residents can also do their bit to help out during the ice and snow: ●

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Please check on elderly friends and neighbours.You do not need a Criminal Records Bureau check to do this.

You can help clear paths and pavements.

It will prevent falls and make it easier for collection crews to move your bin.

Don't believe the myths about being sued.

Please park your car thoughtfully otherwise there may not be enough space for collection vehicles to safely reach your bins.

We’re prepared: Grounds maintenance officer Danny Hogg and Cllr Pam McIntyre, cabinet member for Engagement and the Environment.

twitter.com/NTCouncilTeam and you’ll receive an alert if there

Sign up to the council’s are school closures or any disruption to bin collections.

You can also check out the ‘winter services and support’ section of the council’s website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk – it has useful advice and information, including grit bin locations and a map of the road network that is treated by the council.

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In partnership with KIER North Tyneside

Northumberland Square

North Shields Saturday 10 December, 10am – 5pm Sunday 11 December, 10am – 4pm AROUND 100 CRAFT, GIFT AND FOOD STALLS TRADITIONAL ENTERTAINMENT, FESTIVE MUSIC

Carol Service – 10am (Saturday only)

TELEPHONE: (0191) 643 6419 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR VISIT: WWW.VICTORIANMARKET.CO.UK

Spice Palace curries favour with judges

A local takeaway has proved it’s

The runners-up were Ahar in Whitley

borough-wide cookery contest.

at Home in Battle Hill.

Spice Palace in High Street East,Wallsend

And one of the judges, Cllr George

second to naan by winning a

Bay, Aramee in North Shields and Dine

scooped this year's Curry Chef

Westwater, cabinet member for

represent North Tyneside in the regional

dishes were of a fantastic quality but, for

Competition and will now go on to finals.

Owner Abdul Karim was delighted with

winning the title after coming third in last year's final.

He said:“We thought we had a good

chance of winning, but it feels great to

actually come out on top this time around.”

The winning meal comprised a king prawn

habib starter and a lamb lajawab main

course, with basmati rice, cooked by chef Afsar Qureshi.

Regulatory Services, said:“All of the

me, the curry produced by Spice Palace was the clear winner.

“I'm sure they'll do the borough proud

when they represent North Tyneside in the regional final.”

All entrants in the competition had to

have been operating with good

standards of hygiene, based on their last food hygiene inspection.

Top chef: Afsar Qureshi outside the

Spice Palace.

New B s in

RIEF

T-shirts showing an iconic image of a surfer at Tynemouth Longsands have gone on sale to raise funds for the local volunteer life brigade.

The image, called Big Monday, dates from 1978 when only a handful surfed at Tynemouth – compared to the dozens that regularly use the beach now.

The T-shirts cost £10 and are available in all sizes in either white or grey. For more details, or to order a T-shirt, please contact bigmonday@tvlb.org

North Tyneside Alzheimer’s Society is holding a carol service at St Columba’s United Reformed Church, North Shields, on December 6 at 11am. (For more details, call 257 3401.)

The church is holding several other events in the run-up to Christmas, including a Christmas coffee morning on November 19 (10am to noon), a Festival of Christmas Trees (December 10/11, in conjunction with the Victorian Christmas Market) and a service of Victorian Christmas-themed worship (December 11, 10.30 to 11.30am).

St Columba’s will also hold a nativity service (December 18, 10.30 to 11.30am), carols and readings by candlelight (December 24, 6.30 to 7.30pm) and a service of family worship (December 25, 10.30 to 11am).

Mouths of the Tyne – the community choir based in North Shields – is looking for new members.

The choir meets on Tuesday evenings (7.30 to 9.15pm) at the Baptist Church hall on Howard Street. No expertise is needed and you don’t need to be able to read music.

Fees are £4 per session or £20 for six weeks. Contact secretary Elaine Maughan or Joanne Wallace – mouthsofthetyne@hotmail.com

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Panto has a touch of magic

This year’s Christmas spectacular

Director Simon Barnard said:“This year’s

is sure to be magic for all the

family.

at The PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay family!

Aladdin, which opens on December 13,

features spectacular costumes, great dance

routines and plenty of well-known songs.

The cast includes Jassa Ahluwalia, from Art Attack, as Aladdin and Kirsty Swain, from So You Think You Can Dance?, as Princess Jasmine.

They will be supported by local comedian and singer Steve Walls (Wishee Washee), who will be appearing in his 15th panto,

and radio presenter Paul Harris (Widow Twankey).

If one panto at the PLAYHOUSE isn’t

show is going to be great fun for all the

enough for you, why not try a second

“Aladdin is the most magical pantomime of

Whitley Bay Pantomime Society will be

magic touch to the story, it’s become a firm

15.Tickets from £10.

them all and since Disney added their favourite with young and old alike.”

The creative team behind Aladdin – Blue

Genie Entertainment – also produced last

year’s record-breaking panto at the

PLAYHOUSE, Snow White.

Producer Gary Telfer said:“We know how

popular the pantomime was last year, many

of the shows sold out, so we can’t wait for

another Christmas season.”

Tickets for Aladdin, which runs until January

2, are now on sale, from £9.50.

Dome from dome: The cast of Aladdin take a break from rehearsals and do some sightseeing.

helping?

staging Dick Whittington from January 10 to

The PLAYHOUSE also has a number of

shows taking place before the panto

season starts, including gigs by Andy

Parsons, Joe Brown and Dave Spikey.

Other productions include Showtime, by

Whitley Bay and District Scouts, which

runs from November 22 to 26 (tickets from £8) and the Magical Sounds of

Christmas, a selection of popular carols and festive songs by the Ravenswood

Singers, on December 7 (tickets from £11).

Booking information In person:The PLAYHOUSE, Marine

Avenue,Whitley Bay – Monday to Friday (10am to 4pm), Saturday (10.30am to 2.30pm).

Online: www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

or www.whitleybaypanto.co.uk Hotline: 0844 277 2771

General enquiries: 0844 493 4567 Accessible bookings: (0191) 251 5484 All information correct at time of going to print.

12

What’s on in your town centre

There’s plenty happening in Whitley Bay, North Shields and Wallsend during the next few weeks – come along and be entertained.

Saturday, November 12

Whitley Bay – North Tyneside Youth Circus will be entertaining shoppers with displays of juggling and stilt walking around Whitley Road and Park View. 11am to 2pm.

North Shields – Stages School of Dance will be performing their disco and freestyle dance routines along Bedford Street between 10.30am and noon.

Wallsend – Children’s TV favourite ‘Peppa Pig’ will be making a special appearance at the Forum Shopping Centre at intervals between 9.30am and 4pm.

Saturday, November 19

North Shields – North Tyneside Steel Band will be performing along Bedford Street between 11am and 1pm.

Wallsend – A giant snow dome will feature between 11am and 3pm outside the Forum Shopping Centre.The huge inflatable is like a supersized version of the little snow globes and shoppers will be able to jump inside for a photo.

Saturday, December 3

Whitley Bay – St Nicholas Festival.

(See page 32 for more details.)

North Shields – The giant snow dome will feature between 11am and 3pm in Bedford Street.

Wallsend – One of the North East’s largest inflatable Santas will be appearing on the bandstand by the Forum Shopping Centre.

Shoppers can have their photo taken and enjoy some free festive face painting. 10am to 3pm.

All events are subject to change or cancellation.

To keep up-to-date on events taking place in North Tyneside, sign up to receive our regular events e-newsletter by emailing: events@northtyneside.gov.uk

Saturday, December 10

Whitley Bay – The giant snow dome will feature between 11am and 3pm at Park View Shopping Centre.

North Shields –Victorian Christmas Market (See page 34 for more details.)

Wallsend – The large inflatable Santa Claus will be appearing on the bandstand outside the Forum Shopping Centre. Free face painting. 10am to 3pm.

Saturday, December 17

Whitley Bay and North Shields – The Priory Singers will be performing Christmas carols along Whitley Road (11am to noon) and along Bedford Street (1.30 to 2.30pm).

Wallsend – The large inflatable Santa Claus will be appearing on the bandstand by the Forum Shopping Centre. Free face painting. 10am to 3pm.

Whitley Bay – North Tyneside Steel Band will be performing along Whitley Road between 11am and 1pm.

North Shields – TV favourite ‘Fireman Sam’ will be making a special appearance at the Beacon Shopping Centre at intervals between 9.30am and 4pm.

Wallsend - Stages School of Dance will be performing their disco and freestyle dance routines on the bandstand outside the Forum Shopping Centre between 10.30am and noon.

Saturday, November 26 Whitley Bay – Children’s favourite ‘Postman Pat’ will be appearing at the Park View Shopping Centre at intervals between 9.30am and 4pm.

Don’t forget: You can visit Santa at the Park View Shopping Centre,Whitley Bay on Saturdays during December. Children will also be able to write a letter to Santa and colour in a picture. For exact times, see page 19.

13

Guess how many bottles are in the bin and win a grand prize!

Residents are being offered the chance to win shopping vouchers worth £20 to £1,000 for pledging to wash, squash and recycle their plastic bottles.

The campaign, which runs until Tuesday, January 31, 2012, aims to increase plastic recycling rates in the borough.

Anyone who makes the pledge can guess how many squashed plastic bottles the council has placed in a standard recycling bin fitted with a transparent front.

It is being run by the council but is entirely funded by recycle-more, a popular recycling information website where consumers, businesses and other organisations can find help and advice on all aspects of recycling at home, at school and in the workplace.

Meanwhile, there is a daily spot prize of £20 worth of shopping vouchers for an individual, chosen at random, that is found to be fulfilling their pledge.

“Not only does it help the environment, but it offers some real personal benefits to residents that get involved and pledge to wash, squash and recycle their plastic bottles.

Whoever is correct, or has the closest guess, will win £1,000 worth of shopping vouchers.

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley said:“This initiative is great news and has my support.

Have a guess: Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for Transport and the Green Environment, drops the last bottle into the recycling bin.

“I know North Tyneside has some very keen recyclers but hopefully this will encourage even more people to do their bit.”

The bin contains various types of plastic bottles that can be recycled, which are normally found in the kitchen, bathroom and under the sink, such as washing-up liquid, juice and bleach bottles.

It will be featured at a series of local roadshows, giving residents an opportunity to look at the bin before guessing the number of bottles it contains.

These events will also provide people with a chance to pick up a free gift, many of which are made from recycled plastic.

Details of when and where the roadshows are taking place can be found on the council’s website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk/squash

Everyone who makes a pledge will be

invited to give their permission for the

Reward Team to check their bin, on its collection day, for any plastic bottles

that have been washed and squashed.

If they are randomly chosen for a visit, and washed and squashed bottles are found, they will be sent £20 in

shopping vouchers through the post.

People can make their pledge online and guess the number of bottles at

www.northtyneside.gov.uk/squash or

by phoning 0345 2000 106.

You can also complete a pledge form

that will be available at the roadshows.

14

Environment

Leaf it to us!

Youngsters didn’t need to paws for thought when they were asked to launch the council’s autumn environment campaign.

The annual initiative, which runs until the end of November, aims to reduce levels of leaf fall and litter across the borough.

And the children from Burradon Community Primary School got the campaign up and running when they carried out a clean-up of their school grounds, with the help of North Tyneside’s environmental mascot,Waldo the Wonderdog.

The autumn environment campaign includes a challenge for schools to collect as many bags of leaves as possible.

The winning school will receive two large planted hanging baskets, courtesy of Complete Growth in Howdon, while the runner-up receives two standard-size hanging baskets.

Cllr Pam McIntyre, cabinet member for Engagement and the Environment, said: “Wet leaves on the ground can be a real danger, especially for older residents, as they can become slippery underfoot.”

Updates on the schools challenge can be seen on the ‘school leaf table’ available at www.northtyneside.gov.uk The autumn environment campaign includes: ●

●

●

●

Providing extra street sweeping patrols featuring the council’s ‘Leafbuster’ vehicles.

Involving wardens in leaf collection and composting initiatives in the borough’s main parks.

Delivering letters to businesses, underlining firms' responsibilities for litter.

Organising a number of community clean-up events during the October half-term.

Meanwhile, residents can get a cheap composting bin thanks to the council’s partnership with getcomposting.com

The bins enable residents to transform autumn leaves, spent bedding plants, and grass cuttings into nutritious compost that will enrich spring planting.

To order a composting bin, call 0844 571 4444 or visit online at: www.getcomposting.com To get involved in the campaign, phone (0191) 643 7295. For more information, call 0345 2000 103.

Volunteers needed Children and parents in Shiremoor are joining forces with the Woodland Trust and Play England to plant more than 400 trees at the local adventure playground.

The mass tree planting – part of Play England’s Exploring Nature Play project – takes place on Saturday, November 19.

The trees and shrubs are all native broadleaved, which means they should be growing into the next century – when the children’s grandchildren will be able to inspect their handiwork.

Volunteers are still needed to plant a tree on the day.To find out how to get involved, contact Janet Orrock at jorrock@ncb.org.uk

Follow us at Leafbusters: Ellie Hynemarch and Waldo at the launch of the campaign at Burradon Primary.

twitter.com/ NTCouncilTeam

For latest events, news and information

15

Latest feedback being studied The latest consultation period on the council’s Core Strategy Preferred Options document has just ended and the feedback is now being analysed.

The extra month-long consultation was

agreed at a meeting of the council’s cabinet

earlier in the year.

When finally approved, the Core Strategy

will provide a planning framework that will be used to guide decision-making and

development in the borough until 2027.

The views of residents, businesses, young people and other groups have all been

sought as part of the consultation process.

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley has pledged

the interests of the borough and its

residents are at the heart of the plan’s development.

And she has stressed the Core Strategy

will not see houses built on the Green Belt.

Housing matters: Providing more homes is a key element in the development of the borough.

“Officers and councillors have worked

very hard since work began on the plan to

ensure the amount of development being put forward delivers the homes and

employment opportunities people want

and need,” she said.

“At the same time, we are aware the plan must protect those attributes, such as the

Green Belt, that make people want to live and work in North Tyneside, or visit the

borough.”

During the consultation, people were

asked to comment on three options for

growth.The council’s preferred option

would see about 6,000 new homes being

built, including 1,500 (25 per cent)

affordable homes.

The decision on the Core Strategy will be

made by all councillors at a forthcoming

meeting of the council.

Could you join the Digit-Allies?

Volunteers are needed to coach and inspire others who are starting to get to grips with modern technology.

North Tyneside is looking for 15 community champions to help promote the benefits of using digital technology and social media.

The volunteering opportunities have been made available through the ‘Digit-All’ project – a partnership between the council's Adult Learning Alliance and VODA.

The champions, called ‘Digit-Allies’, will be based at locations such as community learning centres, libraries, children's centres and other community-based venues across the borough.

They will work on a one-to-one basis with residents over the age of 16, to help them improve their ICT skills.

Volunteers should have the ability and patience to get to know people and understand their interests and motivations, especially people who are learning something for the first time.

They should also be enthusiastic about the huge difference the internet and new technology can make. Full training and support will be provided.

Cllr David Lilly, cabinet member with responsibility for adult learning, said: “IT skills are essential in today's modern world, for everything from keeping in touch with friends and family to banking, shopping and booking a holiday.

Our ambition is for every resident to make the most of what technology can offer.”

If you are interested in becoming a Digit-Ally, please contact Jane Nesbitt on (0191) 643 8814 or email jane.nesbitt@northyneside.gov.uk

It is hoped to recruit all the volunteers

by December.Training will take place between January and April (half-a-day a week) with a view to working with residents by April.

16

Big Society fund helps local projects The council has awarded £64,000 in funding to support 20 projects through the Big Society Community Investment Fund.

The fund aims to support local groups with grants, ranging from £50 to £10,000, to help people get more involved, take responsibility and bring about change in their community.

centre to provide additional space for new group activities.

●

●

Successful projects in the second round of applications include:

●

●

●

●

Streetgames UK – £9,100 to recruit young volunteers to work in areas suffering from anti-social behaviour and youth disorder, providing street games and sports activities.

Folk Interested in Shields Harbour – £5,700 to research the potential of creating a Heritage Centre at the Fish Quay.

Reece’s Wish – £3,960 for a new local group offering bereavement counselling to children.

East End Youth & Community Centre – £4,650 to convert an area of the

●

●

Killingworth Community Consortium – £690 to establish a Christmas Market and Scene at the White Swan Centre.

North Shields Chamber of Commerce – £4,400 to provide a community noticeboard and a history trail at Northumberland Square, North Shields.

Whitley Bay Scouts – £1,890 to create a bird hide and wildlife garden at Marden Quarry.

West Moor Gardening Group – £752 to support a local volunteer group that tidies and weeds local communal areas.

These exciting new projects join the nine groups supported in the first round, which received £25,000 in total.

If you would like advice on funding opportunities for your project, please contact external funding team manager Tabitha Falcus on (0191) 643 6413 or email tabitha.falcus@northtyneside.gov.uk

Worthy project: A local group has received a grant to explore the possibility of creating a heritage centre at the Fish Quay.

Have your say

As a North Tyneside resident, you can have your say in council decision-making through regular public meetings, called area forums.

Each area forum has a budget of £250,000 to spend on road and pavement improvements.

Residents are currently being invited to suggest where they would like to see

this money spent. Ideas will be voted on at future meetings.

You can make your suggestion, or propose an agenda item for your area forum, by contacting the Engagement Team on (0191) 643 2828.

You can also email: areaforums@northtyneside.gov.uk Please see pages 18 to 21 to find out more about what’s happening in your area forum.

You can view the latest opportunities to get involved and have your say – not only with the council but also the police and health organisations – by checking the Engagement Forward Plan.

This can be viewed on the council website by going to ‘Community and Living’, then ‘Community Engagement Framework’ and it is the document attached at the bottom of the page.

17

Area forums

Benton • Longbenton • S West Allotment • Backworth • Mon Willington Quay • Holy Cross • B Chirton • Riverside • Cullercoats •

North West Area Forum

Including Benton, Dudley, Forest Hall, Hazlerigg, Holystone, Killingworth, Longbenton, Seaton Burn and Wideopen.

Chair – Cllr Jim Allan, deputy chair – Cllr Muriel Green

Youth Hub is the centre of activity Youngsters in Burradon and Camperdown will be enjoying some Friday evening fun thanks to a new youth club.

The Youth Hub, based at Burradon

Recreation Centre, offers activities and

entertainment for people aged eight to 16.

The Burradon and Camperdown Forum

bought equipment for the hub with help from the Community Development

Foundation. The council’s sports and leisure team is providing StreetGames sessions and coaching opportunities.

Chris Wray, secretary of the forum, said:

Cllr Glynis Barrie, cabinet member for

Community Services, said: "This is an

The Youth Hub (pictured below) runs

to 9pm for 11 to 16 year-olds.

It has TVs, a games console, pool table

and table tennis table. It will also stage

StreetGames sessions, which includes

●

A new bike shed for West Moor Primary School, which will encourage more children to cycle and scooter to school.

Supplying Kirkdale Court’s gardening club with plants, baskets and compost to create their own floral displays.

A Christmas tree for West Moor – the centrepiece of the village’s hugely popular carol singing event.

‘Carols Around the Tree’ takes place on Tuesday, December 20.

sports and activities ranging from rugby

to cheerleading.

opportunity to become volunteers programme, receiving coaching

qualifications in return.

The next meetings of the area

forum are on Tuesday, November 29 and Tuesday, March 20, both at the White Swan Centre,

Killingworth.The meetings run from 6 to 8pm and refreshments are

available from 5.30pm.

Area Forums

●

eight to 11 year-olds and from 7.30pm

and help deliver the StreetGames

18

●

every Friday, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm for

members of the forum. The Youth Hub will

and pursuits in a safe environment.

Working together, residents and councillors have agreed to fund a wide range of projects including:

we've been able to support.”

Older teenagers will have the

provide them with a wide range of activities

This year, the area forum had almost £46,000 to spend on supporting local environmental schemes and initiatives suggested by local people.

excellent project, which I'm delighted

“The welfare of the village's children has always been an important priority for

Environmental projects

Police host online schools event

Police invited pupils in Killingworth to take part in the first online meeting with officers in the borough.

Students from junior and senior schools were asked to use the virtual meetings to pose questions and find out how their community is policed.

Neighbourhood Inspector John Smith said:“We think asking pupils to contact police online while at school will help us and we aim to run more online meetings for schools in the future.”

The youngsters took part via the youth police website, which contains games and activities for different age-groups.

For further information, visit www.northumbria.police.uk/ebeat/mypod or www.ebeat.org.uk

Your m Your oney choic e!

eaton Burn • Forest Hall • Killingworth nkseaton • Shiremoor • Whitley Bay attle Hill • Howdon • Wallsend Tynemouth • North Shields

Environmental projects

The area forum has around £57,000 to spend on environmental projects, suggested by residents, community groups and councillors.

One project agreed at the June meeting was a submission by the Cambridge Avenue Action Group for two distinctive arches to be located at the top and bottom of the street.

Residents have been working hard during the year to improve the appearance of the area. Louise Buzzeo, from the action group, said:“The residents would like the arches to be a distinguishing feature to mark both ends of the avenue.

“It will help in our preparations for the centenary of the avenue in 2013. It is our opportunity to give something back.”

Roads and pavements At the next area forum in December,

you can help to choose which roads you

Whitley Bay Area Forum

Including Backworth, Earsdon, Monkseaton, Shiremoor, Wellfield and West Allotment.

Chair – Cllr George Partis, deputy chair – Cllr Joan Bell

Festive cheer for Whitley Lodge The council is planning to install a Christmas tree within the Whitley Lodge Shopping Centre.

The move is part of the Retail Centres Regeneration Strategy, which covers Whitley Lodge and other areas in the borough.

The Christmas tree lights will be switched on between 3.30 and 4pm on Thursday, December 1 by the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Judith Wallace. Members of local churches will be singing carols at the shopping centre between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, December 17.

Meanwhile, the Rotary Club of Whitley Bay has arranged for Santa to visit the

Park View Shopping Centre in the run-up to Christmas.

Santa will be dropping in on December 3, 10 and 17 (11am to 3pm, with a break between 12.30 and 1pm) and on December 22, 23, and 24 (noon to 3pm).

As part of the Heritage Open Days scheme, the Spanish City Dome – currently undergoing extensive refurbishment – was opened to the public for four days during September.

The days were all very well attended and visitors were able to go up on the roof and see the views from the top of the building.

wish to see put at the top of the list for improvements in the next financial year (beginning April 2012).

These projects will then be costed and

the results announced at the meeting of

the forum in March.

The next meeting of the area forum

will be held on Tuesday, December 6 at Livingstone Hall, Park Lane (beside

the Baptist Church, Park Avenue). It

will run from 6 to 8pm, refreshments

from 5.30pm.

Christmas spirit: Whitley Lodge Shopping Centre.

19

Area forums

Benton • Longbenton • S West Allotment • Backworth • Mon Willington Quay • Holy Cross • B Chirton • Riverside • Cullercoats •

Wallsend Area Forum

Including Battle Hill, Bewick Park, Hadrian Park, High Farm, Holy Cross, Howdon, Northumberland,Westmorland and Willington Quay.

Chair – Cllr Maureen Madden, deputy chair – Cllr Norma Redfearn

Operation Backyard gets results A joint operation targeting burglars and

backyard rubbish has been hailed a success.

Operation Backyard saw officers carry out

"Officers have reminded residents to lock valuables out of sight and keep

their doors and windows secure."

extra patrols around rear yards in Wallsend,

During the operation, police made

property, while council staff removed

and vehicle theft.

to deter criminals from stealing valuable unsightly rubbish.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Matt Bruno said:

“Many people keep valuables at the rear of

their property, including bikes and tools.

Often they're left unlocked and in public view, which can make them attractive to opportunist thieves.

several arrests for house burglary, theft

Officers and council staff also dealt with

problem tenants leaving rubbish in their

backyards. Working with the council's

Safer Estates Team, officers spoke to

residents and jointly issued warnings,

eviction notices and court proceedings.

New loos One of the projects funded by the forum’s environmental budget is the refurbishment of the toilets at Willington Quay Bowling Club in Howdon Park.

The club applied to the forum for a £2,780 grant to improve the toilets, which are used by members and visitors to the bowling club and also by families using the play area and young people from the nearby skatepark.

Meanwhile, the new skatepark, developed by the council’s Play and Urban Games Team in partnership with local people, is proving a great success.

Forum update

The area forum agreed in June to try holding its meetings in different parts of the area.

So in September, the forum was held at Howdon Community Centre and guests discussed how local health services will be provided in future and gave their views on initial proposals within the Council Plan (which sets out the council’s priorities for 2012/13).

The next meeting will be at Beacon Hill School from 6 to 8pm (with refreshments and information stalls from 5.30pm). However the date of the meeting has changed from the one previously published and will now be on Monday, December 12.

Wheel deterrent: PC Mal Bennett seizing a suspected stolen bike.

20

Area Forums

In December, the forum will be giving its views on more detailed proposals for the 2012/13 Council Plan and Budget and will be setting out its priorities for how the forum’s £250,000 roads and pavements improvement budget for 2012/13 should be spent.

Your m Your oney choic e!

eaton Burn • Forest Hall • Killingworth nkseaton • Shiremoor • Whitley Bay attle Hill • Howdon • Wallsend Tynemouth • North Shields

Time to have your say A consultation programme is underway as part of the preparation of a Development Framework for the West Chirton South Industrial Estate.

An interactive website has been created which sets out the issues relating to the estate and allows interested parties to give their views online – http://northtynesideconsult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/

As part of the consultation, council staff have arranged drop-in sessions for residents at Norham Community High School (November 22) and the Coast Road Library (November 24). For further details, contact Bev Oakley of the Engagement Unit on (0191) 643 7039 or bev.oakley@northtyneside.gov.uk The consultation closes in the New Year and a draft document containing proposals for the estate is expected to be available in the early summer.

Iron shows its strength Operation Iron – designed to tackle crime and disorder in Tynemouth – has resulted in 16 arrests.

Offences included possessing drugs, fraud and theft while two cannabis farms were discovered.Twenty eight motorists were stopped for exceeding the 20mph limit on Manor Road and Percy Park Road.

Police also visited local schools to give safety tips and crime prevention advice to pupils.

North Shields Area Forum

Including Chirton, Collingwood, Cullercoats, Preston, Riverside and Tynemouth.

Chair – Cllr Shirley Mortimer, deputy chair – Cllr Steve Cox

Lottery boost for carers’ centre North Tyneside Carers’ Centre, which is based in North Shields, has been awarded more than £848,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Youth in Focus programme to support young carers.

The centre is one of only 30 projects in England that has been awarded funding from this programme.

TheYES project;Young Carers Exceptional Stories will be delivered in partnership with YMCA North Tyneside.

Young carers will have the opportunity to work with artists, musicians and film makers to produce materials that will help them in delivering their own messages about caring and raising awareness of young carers.

The project will provide greater access to support from family support workers, who will work with young carers and their families to ensure they receive services which meet their needs.

If you, or someone you know, has a caring role and would like some information, support or guidance, contact North Tyneside Carers’ Centre, Third Floor,YMCA building, Church Way, North Shields. Tel: (0191) 643 2298.

Meanwhile,The Cedarwood Trust, based on the Meadow Well estate, is creating a

community garden to show local people how to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

The group applied for a £1,400 grant from the forum’s Environmental Budget to buy a new shed, concrete slabs and plants in order to create some raised beds.

The community garden will be a partnership between the Cedarwood Trust, Meadow Well Residents’ Group and the Phoenix Detached Youth Project. More than 50 people will help to maintain the garden.

The next meetings of the area forum are on Monday, December 5 and Thursday, March 22, both at the

Saville Exchange in North Shields.

The meetings run from 6 to 8pm and refreshments are available from

5.30pm.

21

Nurturing our next generation of outstanding teachers

Did you know that North Tyneside has its very own primary teacher training programme?

More than 20 of the borough’s primary

schools are involved in training our next generation of outstanding teachers,

through the North Tyneside Early Years School Centred Initial Teacher Training Programme - or SCITT.

The North Tyneside SCITT is a

post-graduate course which provides

trainee teachers with extensive classroom

experience in local schools, combined with expert guidance from teachers and early

years professionals.

In 2009, it was officially rated as

outstanding by Ofsted, and more than 90

per cent of trainees are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status each year.

And many of those qualified teachers go

on to teach in schools in the borough.

One such graduate is 35 year-old Steve

Weddle, a Year One teacher at Star of the

Sea RC Primary School,Whitley Bay.

Steve left behind a 12-year career as a

business manager for an international

telecommunications company, to train

with the North Tyneside SCITT.

He said:“I wanted to be a teacher when I

finished university, but for one reason or

another it didn't happen.When my wife

and I had children, I enjoyed being a part

of their learning and it reinvigorated my

passion to teach.

“I chose the North Tyneside SCITT

because of its reputation and ‘outstanding’

rating from Ofsted.

There were so many opportunities to

observe and be part of lessons hosted by outstanding teachers, as well as work on

placement at outstanding schools.

“I’m so glad I decided to teach. I can see the difference I make, every day, and it’s truly rewarding.”

Mhairi McGowan, Programme Manager for the North Tyneside SCITT, said:

“A school-centred programme is the best way to train if you’re looking for lots of

practical experience, and want to benefit from the expertise of teachers and early

years practitioners on the ground.

“We attract applicants of all ages, from a

huge range of backgrounds, and I think

that’s part of what makes us so successful.”

“The best thing about my training was

the tutors and strong school network.

The North Tyneside Early Years SCITT

is a one-year programme, and trainees are based at the Langdale Centre in

Wallsend.

Graduates are awarded a PGCE

(Early Years) validated by Northumbria University and Qualified Teacher

Status.They also leave with a wealth

of experience, up to the minute

knowledge and fantastic job prospects.

Career change: Steve Weddle, who teaches at Star of the Sea.

22

For more information, visit

www.northtyneside.gov.uk/scitt or

email scitt@northtyneside.gov.uk

Have your say on draft parking strategy Whether you walk, drive a car or van or ride a motorbike, the council’s draft parking strategy is bound to affect you.

The authority therefore needs to find out

●

implement best practice parking

arrangements. ●

2015.

●

plans to meet the needs of all those

affected by parking – including residents,

visitors and the business community – and

improve everyone’s quality of life.

That means it needs to deliver a scheme

●

left-hand side of the home page and then

Communicating regularly to promote

You can also write to Carrie Thompson,

efficiently, effectively and fairly.

The strategy sets out how these priorities

will be delivered and also tackles some of

commercial areas and businesses.

outside schools, private car parking, coach

Supporting the borough’s economy,

including local businesses and town and

You can email your comments to

Ensuring customers are treated

residential parking, pavement parking,

●

‘parking control’.

carrie.thompson@northtyneside.gov.uk

taxpayers and achieves a balance between

The strategy has eight aims:

select ‘parking, roads and transport’ on the

the community’s needs.

the key issues in North Tyneside, including

long and short-term parking to support

The draft parking strategy is on the council

and sustainable travel choices.

that provides safe and uncongested roads,

minimises the cost of parking services to

car parks.

website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk –

and improve the service so it meets

The draft strategy sets out how the council

parking, and the safety and security of its

Using car parking management to help

influence the public to make alternative

what the public thinks of its planned

approach to parking, which will run until

Ensuring all new housing developments

town centre parking, foreshore parking,

Parking Strategy Consultation, Quadrant

East (1st floor left),The Silverlink North,

North Tyneside, NE27 0BY.

The closing date for comments is

January 10, 2012.

parking for people with disabilities, parking

Parking strategy: The council’s proposals aim to meet everyone’s needs.

neighbourhood centres, with consistent

parking arrangements. ●

Providing an efficient parking service

which manages income and revenue to

ensure it is fully funded. ●

Managing parking to ensure a safe

●

Meeting the needs of North Tyneside

environment for the public. as a whole.

23

Primary Care Trusts are the local part of your there are local health services available.

Simple rules are important People are being reminded to follow good hygiene practice this winter to protect themselves and others against the spread of flu.

The ‘Catch It. Bin it. Kill it.’ campaign helps prevent the spread of flu viruses which

are made up of tiny particles that can be

spread through the droplets that come

out of your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.

To slow the spread of any virus:

Catch it – always cover your nose

and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze.

Bin it – dispose of the tissue as soon as possible.

Kill it – clean your hands as soon as

important actions people can take to

stop the spread of flu viruses.

“We all have an important role in

preventing ourselves, our families and

others from spreading germs, which is

why this campaign is so important to get everyone to practise good hygiene.”

If you have flu-like symptoms and are

concerned, stay at home. If you can go online, check your symptoms on the symptom checker on www.nhs.uk

If you have taken these steps and are still concerned, then call your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

Meanwhile, local GPs are urging people

you can.

who are at risk from flu to make sure

Marietta Evans, director of public health

vaccinated.

(PCT) and North Tyneside Council, said:

The vaccine is available FREE to the

for North Tyneside Primary Care Trust

they protect themselves and get

● ●

All pregnant women

Anyone aged 65 years or over

Anyone who has a long-term health

problem

Dr Mike Guy, medical director at NHS

North of Tyne, working on behalf of

North Tyneside Primary Care Trust, said:

“If you are at risk and have not been

vaccinated, then contact your GP practice

“These simple rules are the most

following people:

now and make an appointment.”

If you are under 65 and have a long-term health condition, you could pop along to your nearest participating pharmacy to get your free flu jab.

There is no need to make an appointment and many pharmacies are open long hours and at weekends.

If you use a regular pharmacy for your long-term health condition prescriptions, the pharmacist will be able to check that you are eligible for a free vaccine by looking at your prescription record.

Your pharmacist can help

24

●

You will need to take along the letter you received from your GP practice, inviting you for a flu jab, as evidence of your eligibility.

NHS and are responsible for ensuring that

Think Pharmacy First this winter

When it comes to getting quick and convenient medical advice, remember the community pharmacy is usually right on your doorstep.

Families are being reminded of the benefits of the local pharmacy for over-the-counter medicine, advice and support for a range of conditions which don’t persist, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, headaches and stomach upsets.

And if you get free prescriptions due to low income, you can get your medicines for FREE thanks to the Think Pharmacy First scheme.

North Shields pharmacist Omar Ahmad, from CentrePharm, said: “Certain ailments can increase with the season, like coughs and colds in the winter, and your pharmacist is on hand to offer over-the-counter advice.”

Look out for the bright yellow posters and window stickers displayed in all pharmacies, urging you to Think Pharmacy First.

●

Meanwhile, the NHS Choose Well campaign aims to help you access the correct service for you.

●

During winter, when demand on the NHS is highest, people are asked to choose the most appropriate service for the seriousness of their symptoms.

●

GP – for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you can’t shake off.

NHS walk-in centre/Urgent care centre – for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment.

Accident and emergency or 999 – only for critical or life-threatening situations.

This will help the NHS to continue to cope with the challenges posed by cold weather.

Available services include: ●

●

●

Self-care – for minor illnesses, combine over-the-counter medicines with plenty of rest.

NHS Direct on 0845 46 47– staff can answer any health questions, around the clock, and help you to find services.

Pharmacist/chemist – for advice on illnesses and the right medicines.

Here to help: Pharmacist Omar Ahmad.

25

A one-stop information shop for all families Local families can access wide-ranging support and information through the North Tyneside Families Information Service (FIS).

The team can provide a wealth of advice and information on a huge range of

services for children and families, including

childcare and holiday activities.

Whether you’re looking for things to do

and places to go, or specialist help for

children with disabilities and additional F needs, why not contact FIS?

Whitley Bay Library: Fourth Tuesday of

If you would like any information on

events and activities taking place over

every month, 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

the Christmas period, please contact our

friendly and dedicated team, based at the

Riverside Centre, North Shields, on 0345

2000 108 or email fis@northtyneside.gov.uk

Riverside Centre, North Shields: Drop in

any day, 11am to 3pm. (You can telephone

in advance to make an appointment)

You can also call in to one of our regular

drop-in sessions:

Follow us at

twitter.com/ NTCouncilTeam

Wallsend Library: First Friday of every

month, 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

For latest events, news and information

Killingworth Library: Second Tuesday of every month, 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

horizons

Information and advice on:

widening

> Schools, training and jobs

>

Things to do for all ages and abilities

>

Family support

>

Help for children with disabilities or additional needs

> Health and wellbeing

>

Support with special educational needs

>

>

Signposting to specialist help

> Family finances and benefits

> Adult and family learning Quality childcare

ation form ed in n with v o r Imp childre s and for ilitie s disab nal need io addit

North Tyneside Families Information Service Here to support all parents, carers, children and professionals

fis@northtyneside.gov.uk 26

Children andYoung People

0345 2000 108

Changing children’s futures forever Patrick, six, and Luke, five, are just like any other brothers.

They’re full of energy, great fun, love playing outside and try hard at school.

They’re also two of 26 children aged between birth and eight that the council is hoping to place with adoptive parents.

Right now, the Adoption Service is urgently looking for adoptive families for children in foster care.

Out of the 26 children waiting for permanent homes, many have a brother or sister who would be placed with them.

Although the council has recently seen a rise in the number of people coming forward to foster, the number of adopters has steadily fallen.

Fostering and Adoption manager Paula Gibbons said:“There are many reasons a child may not be able to live with their birth parents, and adoption into a new

family gives them a second chance to experience a stable, secure and loving upbringing.

“Adopters come from all sorts of

backgrounds, and the ‘typical’ profile of a heterosexual, married couple no longer exists – we accept applications from all walks of life.

“What our adopters do have in common

is that they can offer a warm, loving, stable

and secure permanent family for a child,

and be tolerant, patient and flexible.”

Prospective adopters are urged to

contact the Adoption Service directly, even if they’re just looking for information.

You can call the council’s Adoption

Service on (0191) 643 2545 or email

adoption@northtyneside.gov.uk to arrange

an informal chat.You can also visit

www.northtyneside.gov.uk to download

an information pack.

“We wanted to be parents” Lynn and Andrew always knew they

wanted a family but conceiving

naturally was difficult for them.When

fertility treatment didn’t work, the

couple considered adoption.

Lynn said:“From the outset, we

weren’t thinking ‘we want a baby’, we

thought ‘we want a family’ - and for

me, adoption was a natural choice.

We both wanted to be parents, and

we knew there were so many children

out there who needed parents.”

After their assessments, they were

matched with two year-old Marc, who

settled very quickly. And two years

later, Lynn and Andrew were able to

adopt Marc’s younger brother, Aidan,

when his mother also gave him up for

adoption.

“Marc knows he is adopted, and what that means, and when Aidan is old

enough, we’ll explain it to him, too,”

said Lynn.

“I believe we’ve made a huge

difference to their lives, and in return

they have given us great joy and

So excited: Lynn and Andrew (see story, right).

unconditional love.We are so excited

about our future as a family.”

27

Bursary can help with education costs

A new scheme has been launched

You will qualify for funding if you are:

between 16 and 19 with the costs

●

to help some students aged

receiving both Employment Support

Allowance and Disability Living

The 16-19 Bursary Scheme replaces the

Allowance. If so, you could qualify for

Educational Maintenance Allowance and is

up to £1,200 per year.

designed to provide support to those

If you started Year 12, 13 or 14 at a North

Tyneside school in September, you may be entitled to a bursary to help with costs during term time.

receiving income support or a student with learning difficulties or disabilities

of education or training.

students who are in the greatest need.

In care, a care leaver, a student

●

Receiving free school meals. If so, you

could be eligible to receive up to £600 a

year. (Please note: any students in Year

13 or 14 receiving transitional EMA

payments will not qualify for this

payment.)

Students interested in applying for the

bursary should, in the first instance, speak

to their Head of Sixth Form.

More details, including an application form, are available on the council website –

www.northtyneside.gov.uk – or through the

Student Support Helpline – (0191) 643

2288.

Completed forms should be returned to: North Tyneside Schools’ 16 to 19 Bursary Scheme,

North Tyneside Council, Langdale Gardens,

The bursary is designed to help with costs

Howdon,

and equipment or other costs associated

NE28 0HG

relating to studies, such as transport, books with courses or living expenses.

Wallsend,

Schools taking part in the NorthTyneside Schools’ 16-19 Bursary Scheme ● ●

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Beacon Hill

Burnside Business & Enterprise College Churchill Community College George Stephenson High

Longbenton Community College Seaton Burn College

St Thomas More High Young Mothers’ Unit Whitley Bay High

Woodlawn School

Please note: Monkseaton High, Tyne Metropolitan College and Queen Alexandra Sixth Form College operate their own schemes. Students at these institutions should apply to them directly.

28

Children andYoung People

Christmas!

Have yourself a merry

Welcome to our eight-page guide to what’s happening in North Tyneside this Christmas.

From the Victorian Christmas Market in

North Shields to the St Nicholas Festival in Whitley Bay, there’s plenty happening right across the borough and some great

opportunities for the little ones to meet Santa!

Children can visit Santa’s Grotto at St

Mary’s Lighthouse and take part in the

‘stranding events’ on the island in the

run-up to Christmas.

Meanwhile, the ever-popular Santa Specials

You can read more about Amelia, and get a

Railway Museum while a Winter

page 30.

will be running again at the Stephenson

Wonderland with a difference can be

found at the Rising Sun Country Park.

The full guide to what’s on in the borough

this Christmas is on pages 31 to 35.

Meanwhile, this year’s Christmas lights

switch-on, in partnership with SSE, takes

place outside Wallsend’s Forum Shopping

sneak preview of her winning design, on

The four winning Christmas lights from

previous competitions can be seen outside Wallsend Town Hall.

Elsewhere, for the very first time,

Tynemouth will feature festive lights along Front Street.

Centre on Friday, November 18.

Whitley Bay has an entirely new display of

Metro Radio will be co-hosting

around Northumberland Square in North

proceedings from 4.30pm and will be

joined by the cast of Aladdin, who are appearing in this year’s panto at PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay.

High school student Amelia Dunn,

who won the annual contest to design a

Christmas light, will turn on her own

special light at 5.30pm and the rest of the

borough’s displays will follow shortly

afterwards.

lights and there are also new lights in and

Shields.

And this year, for the first time, you can vote for your favourite Christmas shop

window – with the chance to win a pair

of tickets to a show of your choice at PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay. For more details, see page 30.

In this section, you can also find out how

to enter our annual Winter Snaps

photography competition. For full details,

including where to pick up your free

postcards of last year’s winning entries,

see page 36.

On behalf of everyone at North Tyneside Council, have a merry Christmas and a

happy New Year!

ChristmasWhat’s On

29

Amelia’s bright idea pays off

High school student Amelia Dunn will be lighting up the borough this Christmas after winning a design contest.

For her image of a cheery pudding has been turned into a Christmas light and will feature in this year’s festive display.

And Amelia, 12, who attends St Thomas More RC High School in North Shields, will be present at the big switch-on at the Forum Shopping Centre in Wallsend on Friday, November 18.

“I can’t believe it,” she said.“I hoped it would make a good light but I was really doing it for a bit of fun – I never thought it would be chosen.”

Technology teacher Jill Green said:“When I heard she had won, I was very proud and happy for her. She deserves it for coming up with such a fantastic design.”

This year’s switch-on is supported by SSE, official sponsor of the borough’s Christmas

lighting, and Metro Radio which will co-host the event.The fun starts at 4.30pm and there will be guest appearances by some of the cast of Aladdin, who are appearing at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay during December and January.

Shop contest provides a window on winter A message from SSE SSE is proud to support the communities of North Tyneside. For the last seven years, we have provided street lighting – making sure the streets are well lit and safe for local residents.

This year, for the first time, SSE is also working in partnership with the council to provide all of the Christmas lighting in the borough.We are looking forward to our involvement and, in particular, Amelia’s winning design being switched on.

Shops are invited to get into the Christmas spirit and take part in the annual Best Dressed Window competition.

This year, for the first time, it will be up to shoppers, rather than a council judging panel, to decide the winners.

The public will be able to vote for their favourite shop window, from Friday, December 2 to Monday, December 19, via the council’s website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk/christmas All voters will be entered into a prize draw to win a pair of tickets to a show of their choice at PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay.

There will be prizes for the best window in North Shields,Wallsend and Whitley Bay, as well as a category for businesses not in a town centre.

Each of the winning businesses will receive £50 while the second and third in each category will pick up £30 and £20 respectively.

Shops must register their entry by Wednesday, November 30.They are also invited to send a photograph of their shop window, in jpeg format, which will be included on the website.

Winning design: Student Amelia Dunn.

30

ChristmasWhat’s On

To register, contact John Fleet on (0191) 643 6419 or email john.fleet@northtyneside.gov.uk

What’s On

Christmas Santa is coming to town! – Royal Quays Outlet Centre November 12 (noon) Royal Quays, North Shields

❄

‘Reindeer Day’ is always a popular day at

Royal Quays. Santa arrives with his reindeer in a fantastic parade starting at around

midday and then, with the help of his elves, opens the grotto for visitors.The grotto is open every weekend until Christmas and costs £4 per child, which includes a gift.

Late night shopping at Royal Quays runs from Thursday, December 1 until Friday, December 23. (Monday to Friday, from 9.30am until 8pm.)

For further information, call (0191) 296

3743 or visit www.royalquaysoutlet.co.uk

Charity firewalking event

November 13 (8.30pm) Crusoe’s Café,Tynemouth Longsands To help raise funds for Jaci Sharp’s walk

along the Great Wall of China. All proceeds will go to Kidney Research UK. Raffle on the night.

For more details, contact Jaci Sharp on

0794 656 4221.

❄

North Tyneside Christmas Lights Switch On

November 18 (4.30pm) Outside the Forum Shopping Centre, Wallsend

Metro Radio hosts this year’s big switch on, which will also see St Thomas More pupil Amelia Dunn officially turn on her specially designed Christmas light (see opposite page).The cast of Aladdin (PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay) will be joining the celebrations.

For more details, call (0191) 643 7409 or email events@northtyneside.gov.uk

❄

Christmas Bazaar – St Bartholomew’s Church November 19 (10am to noon) Church Hall, Longbenton

A range of stalls including a chocolate tombola, crafts, cards, raffle, Santa’s Grotto and lots more! All welcome.

For further information, contact (0191) 266 2015.

Santa’s Grotto – St Mary’s Lighthouse

❄

November 26 to December 23 (various times) St Mary’s Lighthouse,Whitley Bay

The cost to visit Santa’s Grotto is £5 and each child receives a gift.Times vary each day: Saturday, November 26 (10am – noon); Sunday, November 27 (10am – 1pm); Saturday, December 3 (11.30am – 3pm); Sunday, December 4 (12.30pm – 3pm); Saturday, December 10 (10am – noon); Sunday, December 11 (10am – 12.30pm); Saturday, December 17 (10.30am – 3pm); Sunday, December 18 (11.30am – 3pm); Monday, December 19 (12.30pm – 3pm) and Tuesday, December 20 (1.30pm – 3pm).

For further information, call (0191) 200 8650.

❄

Christmas Fair – St Hilda's Church

November 19 (11am to 1.30pm) Stanton Road, North Shields

Stalls include tombola, Christmas crafts, cakes, jewellery and hampers.There will also be entertainment from Mr Twister, Santa's Grotto and refreshments.

An admission fee applies.

For more information, contact (0191) 257 2278 or 07761 865 653.

➜ 31

Christmas Market – Tynemouth Station December Tynemouth Station

❄

Weekend markets will be running through December until Christmas Eve. More than 100 stalls with a Christmas theme.

The Christmas farmers’ market is on Saturday, December 17.

For more information, call 01670 536 939.

Christmas at the Blue Reef Aquarium December

Grand Parade,Tynemouth

For more details, call (0191) 258 1031, visit www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk or email tynemouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk

ChristmasWhat’s On

Children can enjoy a range of fairground

rides and street entertainment. Open

December 1 to 22 (weekdays only) Rising Sun Country Park

to 4.30pm).

Enjoy a Christmas lunch with all the

For more information, contact John Fleet

trimmings. Lunches will be served in the

Rising Sun restaurant on weekdays

Friday (2 to 6pm) and Saturday (9.30am

on (0191) 643 6419.

throughout December. Choose from either a two-course lunch (£16.50) or three

courses (£19.50). Booking is essential. A

non-refundable deposit of £5 per person is

❄

It may be winter outside but Blue Reef Aquarium is open all year (closed Christmas day only).Visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome – whatever the weather!

With themed tropical displays and an underwater tunnel, the aquarium is an oasis of light and colour, even on the darkest days. Enjoy the incredible world of the tropical rainforest and meet the colony of monkeys, including tiny pygmy marmosets and comical looking cotton-topped tamarins!

32

Christmas Lunch at the Rising Sun

required.

For further information or to make a booking, call (0191) 643 2242.

St Nicholas Festival December 2 and 3 Whitley Bay

❄

The annual celebration of the Feast of

St Nicholas.There will be a lamp-lit

procession to St Paul’s Church on the

Friday afternoon, supported by local

schools, to enjoy the switch-on of the

Annual Quiz

❄

December 2 (7pm) Holy Saviour’s Parish Hall, Manor Road,Tynemouth

church’s lights and the festival highlight –

Fund-raising event in aid of the Masokoh

farmers’ market will also take place in the

and food station in Magburaka, Sierra

the calling of St Ncholas.The popular town centre.

Project, which aims to build a school, clinic

Leone.

A £10 ticket includes entry to the quiz and a fish and chip supper.Tickets must be bought in advance.

Traditional Christmas Fayre opened by

Santa. Craft stalls, decorations, cards, cakes, grand raffle and refreshments.

For more details, contact Tricia Tear on (0191) 257 3642.

For further information, contact (0191)

Santa Specials – Stephenson Railway Museum

Tynemouth Village Christmas Festival

❄

December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18 (various times) Stephenson Railway Museum The popular steam train rides with Santa return for another year of family fun.

Tickets are £10 each and include a train ride, a present from Santa for the children and light refreshments. Early booking is essential.

For more information or to book tickets, call (0191) 200 7146 or visit www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephenson

❄

Christmas Fayre – Tynemouth Blind Welfare Society December 3 (2 to 4pm) Pearey House, North Shields

257 4388.

December 10 to 18 Rising Sun Country Park

❄

December 3 (noon to 7pm) Tynemouth Meet Santa and feed his reindeer, enjoy

hog roast and mulled wine, look round the festive stalls and join in with the carol

singing! The shops are open late and there

are festive films at the Priory Theatre (pre-booking essential).

For more details, contact (0191) 258 0201.

Christmas Craft Workshop December 3 (11am to 2pm) Churchill Playing Fields,Whitley Bay (meet at the Adult Learning Pavilion)

Make your own decorations to add some

extra sparkle to Christmas. Feel free to

bring along any old or unwanted Christmas

Children will enjoy seeing Santa in his

For more information, contact the park

music and lights in the winter wonderland.

crafts.

warden on 07866 596 663.

❄

Santa’s Grotto and Winter Wonderland

green grotto after experiencing the festive

They will be able to make some reindeer

❄

food to sprinkle in their garden on

Christmas Eve, ready for Santa’s arrival.

Christmas Tree Lighting and Carol Service – Tynemouth Rotary Club

December 8 (from 7pm) On the green at Tynemouth

The event will feature the Salvation Army

band and choirs from King’s Junior School

and Priory Primary School.

For further information, contact Commander Bryan Rayner on (0191) 257 7451.

Soak up the campfire atmosphere and

keep warm while enjoying roast chestnuts

and hot juice.

The cost is £5 per child. Pre-booking is

essential as places are limited.The grotto

will be open between 11am and 3pm on weekends and from 3pm until 5pm on weekdays.

For more details, call (0191) 643 2241.

➜

33

North Shields Victorian Christmas Market

December 10 and 11 Northumberland Square, North Shields

❄

Now in its 13th year, the North Shields Victorian Christmas Market will see stallholders offering a wide variety of goods, including festive gifts for loved ones, crafts and food.There will also be entertainment, music and a small fairground for the children. Open Saturday (10am to 5pm) and Sunday (10am to 4pm).

The cast of Aladdin – this year’s panto at the PLAYHOUSE – will be helping to officially open the market on Saturday morning.

For more information, contact John Fleet on (0191) 643 6419.

In partnership with Kier North Tyneside, supported by TT2, the Beacon Shopping Centre and North Shields Chamber of Trade & Commerce.

❄

Christmas tree decorating

Springfield Park (meet near bowling green) December 13 (10.30am to 12.30pm)

Benton Quarry Park (meet near the car park) December 14 (10.30am to 12.30pm) Northumberland Park (meet at Park Avenue entrance, warden’s hut) December 17 (10.30am – noon) Tynemouth Park (meet at the sunken garden) December 17 (1.30pm to 3pm)

Bring some sparkle and cheer to your local

park by helping to dress selected trees.

Any unwanted Christmas decorations will be used to create a magical winter

wonderland to be enjoyed by visitors

during the festive season. Great fun for all

the family. Santa’s little helpers can also

enjoy some tasty treats.

For more details, contact Fiona Betts on 07976 307 378.

34

ChristmasWhat’s On

Jingle Bells Bike Ride

Aladdin

December 13 to January 2

December 19 (1pm to 4pm) Rising Sun Country Park

This year’s panto at the PLAYHOUSE is

Join the special bike ride followed by

family. For more details, see special feature

To book, call (0191) 643 6125 or email

PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay

sure to provide a magical treat for all the

on page 12.

festive treats at the café.

paul.adams@northtyneside.gov.uk

❄

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or

call 0844 277 2771.

Stranding Events – St Mary’s Lighthouse

December 14 (1.30pm to 3pm)

December 21 (9.30am to 2.30pm); December 22 (10.30am to 3.30pm) and December 23 (11am to 4.30pm).

St Mary’s Lighthouse,Whitley Bay

Park)

enjoy a range of games, crafts and stories,

❄

School Carol Service

Wallsend Parks (Richardson Dees Wrap up warm and get in the festive

mood. Children from local schools will be singing a selection of carols.

Refreshments will also be available.

For more information, contact Carl McLean on (0191) 643 7897.

While ‘stranded’ on the island, children can

as well as a visit to Santa! The stranding

events cost £10 per person and booking is essential. Children are required to bring a

packed lunch.

For further details, email

stmaryslighthouse@northtyneside.gov.uk or call (0191) 200 8650.

Yule Night Celebration December 21 (6 to 8pm) Rising Sun Country Park

Visit the Rising Sun farm for some storytelling, hot soup and baked bread on the longest, coldest night of the year.

Watch out for the Yule goat, a badtempered smelly creature who demands presents from small children! No need to book, just turn up.

For further information, call (0191) 643 2241.

For more information, contact the school

on (0191) 643 2590.

December 26 Links,Whitley Bay

❄

The annual 3.5 mile charity run gives you the chance to run off Christmas Day’s turkey and maybe some of the trimmings too! Entry fees apply, with the proceeds going to charity.The event takes place along the Links and is organised by Woodlawn School.

www.panamaswimmingclub.co.uk or email

❄

The Monkseaton Morrismen are among

the leading folk dance groups in England

and return – for the 40th consecutive

year – to fulfil their traditional dance on

New Year’s Day.

For more details, visit

Boxing Day Pudding Fun Run

who take a dip.

For more information, visit

New Year’s Day Morris Dancing January 1 Ship Inn, Monkseaton

A hot drink and a mince pie await all those

www.monkseatonmorrismen.co.uk

New Year’s Day Swim

January 1 (11am) Whitley Bay Beach

info@panamaswimmingclub.co.uk

Dick Whittington

January 10 to 15 PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay

❄

Whitley Bay Pantomime Society stage the

traditional story, which features Dick

overcoming the plots of the villainous King Rat to return safe and sound to London

Town.The story, cast, costumes and

scenery will not disappoint.

For more information or to book tickets,

visit www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or call

0844 277 2771.

Each year, hundreds of people brave the

freezing cold temperatures of the North Sea – a perfect way to blow away the cobwebs! Organised by the Panama

Swimming Club, fancy dress is optional.

Please note: Events may be subject to change.

35

Winter snaps show the best of the borough

The winning photographs from our 2010 Winter Snaps competition are now available as free limited edition postcards.

The four postcards are available on a firstcome, first-served basis from libraries and tourist information centres with one set available per person.

Our judging panel chose the following winners:

●

●

●

●

Tynemouth Haven by Patrick Bibby, of Wallsend Cullercoats Lifeboat Station by John Stephenson, of Whitley Bay Spanish City Dome by Ernest Storey, of Tynemouth Tynemouth Longsands by Mark Hume, of Holystone

Entries are now being invited for our 2011 Winter Snaps competition.The closing date for photographs is Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

36

Photographs can be emailed to competition@northtyneside.gov.uk

Prints should be sent to:

Winter Snaps Competition, Corporate Communications, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant, Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY Terms and conditions:

The photograph must have been taken in North Tyneside during 2011/12.Your entry should include your name, address and telephone number. It must also include a brief description of what the photograph shows.

You can enter a maximum of three photographs.Your photograph must be your own work and you must own the copyright for it. Copyright remains with the respective entrants.

You must ensure that photographs of people have been taken with the permission of the subject (where necessary) and do not infringe the copyright of any third party.

All digital entries should be in JPEG format.

When using a digital camera, we suggest you have your camera set to the highest possible quality setting.

The same applies to using a mobile phone camera, however it is advised that you use a phone with a camera above five megapixels.

Prints must be of a high quality, preferably an 8”x6” print.They cannot be returned.

We cannot accept slides or negatives.

A judging panel will choose the four best photographs, which will be turned into a limited edition series of postcards.

The panel’s decision is final. A selection of photographs will also be displayed on the council’s website.

Images are on the right track

Pupils from local schools have helped to brighten up Tynemouth Station while restoration work is being carried out.

workshops with the pupils.

The budding artists provided images of

One of the artworks is inspired by local

ships, planes and landmarks for

construction site hoardings on the station

Gaynor and Dave developed an idea –

a journey to anywhere in the world can

begin at Tynemouth Station – during

themes while the other has an international

flavour.They will remain in place until early

concourse.

next year.

The pupils from Priory Primary, King

The project is part of a series of cultural

Edward’s Primary and Cullercoats Primary

were supervised by artists Gaynor Devaney and Dave Hull-Denholm.

Gaynor said:“We were amazed and

delighted by the quality of the children’s drawings.They provided us with a wonderful basis for the designs.

events highlighting the restoration of the

historic station’s glass canopies.

Panes are being replaced and ironwork

repaired while a performance area will be

created on the platform to increase the

station’s use as a visitor attraction.

Cllr George Westwater, cabinet member

“We have felt inspired by this project,

for Regulatory Services, said:“The children

people can be brought together to create

They should all be very proud of

seeing how the ideas of many different

something new and inclusive.”

have clearly been inspired by the station.

themselves.”

Pathway to a bright future

In the current economic climate, many young people are finding it difficult to find a sense of direction.

However, the Pathways to Work scheme can offer a young person aged between 16 and 19 an individual programme, tailored to their needs.

Through the Foundation Learning Programme, young people can get support in areas such as personal social development, employability skills, English, maths and ICT, and gain nationally-recognised qualifications.

The Pathways team also organises a wide range of sports and leisure activities, such as multi-gym, boxing, ICT gaming and cooking, to provide a balanced programme designed to improve confidence and motivation.

So far this year, those who have attended the Foundation Learning Programme have completed more than 60 qualifications between them, while 90 per cent have gone on to further education, employment or training.

There are no entry requirements and the course is free.Young people can join at any time.

Artistic journey: Charlotte Allen and Charlotte Kewin, both aged nine, with Cllr Westwater (left), Dave Hull-Denholm and Gaynor Devaney.

To find out more about Pathways to Work – which is based at the Youth Village, Hudson Street, North Shields – please contact a member of the team on (0191) 643 8900.

37

Be part of it

The annual North Tyneside Sports Awards will be held on Thursday, March 22, 2012.

RIZONS O H G N I WIDEN h Tyneside t r o N t r Spo

helping to recognise the work of our many officials, coaches, and volunteers, that help make local sport happen.

Hosted by TV presenter Roger Tames, the awards ceremony celebrates the sporting achievements of individuals and clubs across North Tyneside.

If you know someone who is involved in sport, why not nominate them and help them get the recognition they deserve?

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday, December 21, 2011.

This year we are giving residents the opportunity to play a real part in nominating their favourite local sports stars, as well as

The awards ceremony will be held at Quadrant, the council’s headquarters on the Cobalt Business Park.

Nomination categories Junior Team

To recognise success achieved by any North Tyneside based junior/school team under the age of 18 years including successes at local, county, regional or national level

Senior Team

To recognise success achieved by any North Tyneside based senior team over the age of 18 years including successes at local, county, regional or national level

Junior Sports Volunteer

To recognise an individual or group of people (under the age of 18) who has dedicated time, commitment and effort on a voluntary basis to a club, group or project to benefit the local community

Senior Sports Volunteer

To recognise an individual or group of people (over the age of 18) who has dedicated time, commitment and effort on a voluntary basis to a club, group or project to benefit the local community

Sports Coach

To recognise a qualified coach who has supported the development of sport in the local community

Junior Disabled Sports Personality

To recognise the sporting achievements of an individual under the age of 18 years on 31st December 2011

38

Sport and Leisure

2012

Sports Awards Eligibility criteria: Achievements must have been completed between January 1 and December 21, 2011 (except for the Services to Sport Award).

All individuals should reside in North Tyneside and all teams should be based within North Tyneside.

(Please tick the category that you wish to nominate for).

Junior Girls Sports Personality

To recognise the sporting achievements of an individual under the age of 18 years on 31st December 2011

Junior Boys Sports Personality

To recognise the sporting achievements of an individual under the age of 18 years on 31st December 2011

Services to Sport Award

To recognise the lifetime contribution an individual has made to their club, sport or organisation

Contribution to Sports Development

To recognise an individual, group, club or organisation who has made a significant contribution to developing their sport within North Tyneside during the year

Disabled Sports Personality

To recognise the sporting achievements of an individual with a disability

Sports Personality

To recognise the sporting achievements of an individual over the age of 18 years on 31st December 2011

About the nominator Name:

Relationship to nominee: Postal address: Telephone: Email:

About the nominee Nominee name:

Nominee address:

Date of birth (if under 18):

Sport:

At what level does the nominee compete, coach and/or volunteer?: How long have they been involved in the sport?:

Please detail achievements and why you wish to make this nomination - decisions will be made using this information

Press cuttings, evidence of progress, supporting letters from the county, regional and/or national governing body of sport would enhance your application.

(Please continue on a separate sheet if necessary).

Please return your completed entry form to: Sport North Tyneside (Sports Awards), North Tyneside Council, Quadrant West, Cobalt Business Park. North Tyneside, NE27 0BY

39

Our Year of the Games will celebrate the greatest show As the clock counts down to London 2012, North Tyneside is hosting a year of sporting and cultural activities to celebrate the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

January 13 marks the start of North

Tyneside’s Year of the Games with an

-

-

Throughout 2012, local people – both

young and old alike – will be able to take

part in an extensive calendar of events and activities.

The Year of the Games will be driven by the council’s Widening Horizons 4 All

programme. It aims to:

Residents will not only be able to take

Games

variety of arts and cultural activities, as

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Encourage as many residents as

possible to participate in sports, art and

cultural activities -

official flag-raising ceremony at Quadrant, the council’s HQ.

Inspire residents by celebrating the

Support sports coaches, through a

coach education programme and grant

scheme -

Help talented athletes to achieve their

potential

part in different sporting events but a part of the Cultural Olympiad.

These will be organised and staged by

the council and a network of key partners

across the borough. At the same time,

local organisations will be supported to

deliver sports and cultural activities within

their community.

However, the Olympic and Paralympic

-

Reward unsung sporting heroes

-

Develop and support a strong network

sporting excellence.This is underpinned

Support the development of local

Paralympic values as a theme for the

-

of volunteers

community organisations

Games are about much more than

by the council selecting Olympic and

activities taking place through the year.

On your marks: The annual 10K Road Race will be one of the key events taking place in the borough during the Year of the Games.

40

Sport and Leisure

on earth These are:

January & February – Determination

March & April – Excellence May & June – Equality

July & August – Friendship & Respect

September & October – Inspiration November & December – Courage

Full calendar of events The Olympic and Paralympic values will be

RIZONS O H G N I WIDEN e • Cultur s t r A • t r Spo -

Friendship Games & Mouth of the Tyne

-

Opening Ceremony – 2012 Olympic

Festival (July 13-15) Games (July 27)

-

Olympic & Paralympic family fun days

-

5K Family Fun Run & Disability Sport

Month (September)

borough during 2012.

From the launch event on January 13, local people – whatever their age – will be able to take part in a full calendar of activities across the borough.

Key events during the year include: -

Indoor rowing competition (January

27)

the borough are being supported to

The Widening Horizons 4 All volunteer

North Tyneside Sports Awards (March

skills and experience a variety of

-

10K Road Race (April 8)

If you are interested in becoming a

-

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration

Olympic Torch Relay comes to the region (June)

The focal point of the Games will be the new 80,000-seat Olympic

●

Twenty six Olympic and 20

Paralympic sports will be taking

place in a variety of locations across

London and the rest of the country, including the North East.

●

The Paralympic Games will start on August 29 and draw to a close on September 9.

programme has opportunities for

-

-

July 27 with almost 15,000 athletes

Stadium in Stratford.

You will be able to check on their Horizons, published in March.

The Games will get underway on

from 200 countries taking part.

Volunteers.

Coach Education Month (February)

(June 4)

●

become Official London 2012 Games

progress in the next issue of Widening

has hosted the Olympics – the only

modern era.

Volunteers needed A group of sports volunteers from

2012 will be the third time London city to achieve this feat in the

●

-

22)

●

You can also contact Sport North Tyneside

The Year of the Games is being supported

community organisations.

Paris.

Games, visit

on (0191) 643 7447.

of the 30th Olympic Games in July Madrid, Moscow, New York and

and how to get involved in the Year of the

www.sportnorthtyneside.org.uk or email

London was selected as the host

2005, beating off competition from

For more information about what’s on

reflected and promoted in the extensive

and driven by local sports clubs and

●

(August)

yearofthegames@northtyneside.gov.uk

calendar of events being held across the

Olympic and Paralympic factfile

residents, aged 14 and over, to gain new

sporting and cultural activities.

volunteer and would like more

information on the opportunities

available, please contact Sport North Tyneside on (0191) 643 7447.

41

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an ry a g, danc n new t o i e n s k a s a n c e i l s l m ople y mode per ties and e p p 5 g 2 a nly w activi Youn inting, cl o s t s pa Healthy4Life is a FREE its co ills, try ne m i L k o N family healthy lifestyle programme ew s n n r lea

to help families make positive changes to maintain a healthy weight.

y h t l a he life 4

The club runs for eight weeks after school across North Tyneside.

Children must be between the ages of 7 and 16 to attend.

Children will take part in fun sports and activity sessions. Families will learn about healthy eating and how to make healthier lifestyle choices.

To find out more about a programme running in your area, please contact the Children’s Health and Activity Team (CHAT) on (0191) 643 7454 or email CHAT@northtyneside.gov.uk

Contours health and fitness vouchers A gift that can improve health and fitness is one that shows real thought and is bound to be appreciated.

Whether it’s a present for the bride and groom getting in shape for the big day, a special birthday or Christmas gift, or a surprise anniversary present, Contours health and fitness gift vouchers say:‘I care’.

With a Contours voucher, you get unlimited access to all five of our Contours centres – including excellent gym facilities, more than 150 exercise classes, three swimming pools, two spa areas and one leisure pool.

Vouchers are available for six weeks; 12 weeks or one year.Why not give someone the gift of health and fitness today?

Contours junior swimming membership This new scheme, which was launched in October, is ideal if you’ve got a child who loves swimming.

Membership is for anyone up to the age of 14 and entitles them to use any council-run pool in North Tyneside.

The cost is £13 per month for a 12-month membership (£156 if paid in full) or £16 per month for a six-month membership (£96 if paid in full). Payments to come from bank account of parent or guardian.

For more details, contact Bernie Wall on (0191) 643 7458 or bernie.wall@northtyneside.gov.uk

Pre and post-natal exercise classes Pre-natal classes focus on posture and strengthening and toning the muscles that are under strain throughout your pregnancy.

The sessions prepare your body for labour and learning how to relax and breathe so that you enjoy every stage of this wonderful journey.

Post-natal classes focus on regaining correct posture after the birth of your baby, retraining and toning the muscles back to their original strength and shape.

Pre-natal classes (Contours – Tynemouth Pool) – Wednesday, 5 to 5.45pm and Friday, noon to 12.45pm.

Post-natal classes (Contours – Lakeside Centre, Killingworth) – Wednesday, 1 to 2pm (mamas and babbas – you can bring babies under six months to the class).

Water baby: The new junior swimming scheme is ideal for children who love being in the water.

43

The story so far...

The Business Factory – a project funded by North Tyneside Council and delivered by TEDCO – is based on High Street West in Wallsend.

●

to get all the advice and support they need.

enterprising or to start a business.

●

●

continuing to work with us.

Here are some of the highlights of our

work to date: ●

We have helped North Tyneside

residents to start more than 300 new

database of 500 business ideas for

listed on The Business Factory website:

www.businessfactorynt.co.uk

The Business Factory forms part of The

Raising Enterprise North Tyneside project,

funded by North Tyneside Council and ERDF.

We have spoken to more than 300

local businesses about what they feel is missing in North Tyneside and

which could become a new business

Factory opened its doors and in that time

start businesses. Many are thriving and

We have created a website with a

North Tyneside only.

It’s over 18 months since The Business

we’ve helped plenty of local people to

free advice, support and training as

they need to help them become more

The Business Factory is the council’s

one-stop shop for budding entrepreneurs

We have given 2,000 people as much

opportunity for a local resident.

If you are thinking about starting your own

business, drop into The Business Factory at 86 High Street West, Wallsend

NE28 8HY, call (0191) 263 6092 or email info@businessfactorynt.co.uk

If you want to be your own boss but don’t

It’s time to party! businesses.

have a business idea, there are hundreds

Party Planning and Sales Workshop

Thursday, November 17 (5.30pm to 7.30pm) at the Riverside Children’s Centre, Milton Lane, North Shields, NE29 6DQ.

Whether you need a short-term income or want to start a long-term career, this may be the opportunity you have been looking for. Examples include Avon, Slimming World and Body Shop.

Have you considered the party planning sales method as an

This FREE workshop will explore the world of party planning and sales and see if this option is for you. To book a place, contact The Business Factory on (0191) 263 6092 or email info@businessfactorynt.co.uk

opportunity that allows you to work from home, or work

around children, family or your job, to earn extra money and be your own boss?

44

There are some well-known brands that enable you to be self-employed – marketing and selling their products.

Business

CASE STUDY:

Aaron Phillips, Xpress Urself A performing arts graduate from Cullercoats looks set to take centre stage with the launch of his new business venture, Xpress Urself.

The stage school, located at Cullercoats

Methodist Church, is the brainchild of 19

year-old Aaron Phillips and will offer dance,

drama and singing classes for children aged

five to 16.

The former Newcastle College Performing Arts student has launched the venture

with support from The Business Factory,

which helped Aaron to conceive a business plan and turn it to reality.

Aaron said: “I have always loved performing

and taking part in musical theatre. From a

young age, I was involved in stage schools and theatre productions and then took

courses at Dance City and the prestigious Performing Arts Btec at Newcastle

College.

“However, I knew the industry was hugely competitive and, as I wanted to stay in the North East, my options would be relatively limited.

“So instead of heading to London like so many of my fellow students, I decided to combine my performing skills with the urge I had to run my own business.”

Aaron decided to call The Business Factory after reading an article about the work of the project.

He spoke to business advisor Mark Oakley, who is passionate about the theatre and has written a number of short screenplays.

“He really understood my skills and background and how they could be best used to create a successful business,” said Aaron.

“He helped me to turn what was very much a loose business idea into a solid plan and has provided the right level of help and support to turn it into reality.”

Stage performers: Aaron Phillips with Xpress Urself pupils (left to right) Rosie McQuewin, Nicole Dawson, Jade Heindmarch, Michael Williamson, Tilly Aveyard, Jessica Thompson.

Mark said: “For somebody so young, Aaron has real vision and a true entrepreneurial spirit. He is a natural on the stage but definitely has the traits of a successful businessman too.

“He has ambitious plans for the business and no doubt will become a true ambassador for young people in business across North Tyneside.”

Xpress Urself will initially offer singing, dancing and acting classes every Saturday morning but is looking to increase the number of classes on offer as demand grows.

Classes will be delivered by Aaron and his first employee, a former fellow college student who is now studying dance at university. Both are qualified and experienced teachers.

For more information, visit www.xpress-urself.co.uk

The Business Factory Telephone: (0191) 263 6092

Pop in: 86 High Street West, Wallsend NE28 8HY.

Email: info@businessfactorynt.co.uk

Web: www.businessfactorynt.co.uk

45

North Tyneside Business Forum

UPDATE

The North Tyneside Business Forum is an independent organisation, backed by the council.

Firms benefit

It supports the business community by encouraging development, trading and networking.

To contact the Business Forum, phone (0191) 643 6000, email businessforum@northtyneside.gov.uk or visit the website – www.northtynesidebusinessforum.co.uk Here, as part of our regular series on successful local companies, we profile local entrepreneur Nicky Gray.

More than 80 companies in North Tyneside joined forces recently to discuss how to make business in the borough boom.

The ‘Networking in Action’ event, hosted by the Business Forum, gave organisations the chance to get together, make new contacts and hear how they can do more business with each other.

Caroline Theobald, managing director of the Bridge Club, was the key speaker

Mums mean business!

Our towns and villages have a wealth of untapped talent which, if uncovered, could lead to an upsurge in the number of small businesses operating locally.

She had the idea after seeing the trauma

suffered by another nephew, who is autistic,

every time he had a haircut.

“I felt there had to be something to

make families’ lives a little easier but,

Much of this untapped talent lies in the

more importantly, make haircuts fun for

hands of those mums who currently stay at

everyone,” she said.

home due to the difficulties of juggling

“Five years on, the opportunities that have

family life with a career.

come my way have been unbelievable. In

However, many have interests and hobbies

2007 I won the Young Entrepreneur award

that, with support, could be turned into

in the North Tyneside Business of the Year

viable businesses, bringing in extra income

competition.

and helping the local economy.

Nicky Gray, managing director of Fidgets

“After speaking to parents, I set up Kiki's

playcentre, told Widening Horizons how

the time and there were so many

childrens’ hair salon, and Kiki’s Kabin

she combines family life with a great

business career.

“Five years ago, I took my nephew Nathan

46

families each week.

challenges to overcome, like raising finance

“I was pregnant when setting up Fidgets

and getting planning permission, but mostly it was getting people to believe in me.”

As Kiki's got busier, Nicky was joined by

facility that the whole family could enjoy,”

other business opportunities, including

she said.

Business

businesses and we see around 1,500

Kabin in North Shields. I was only 20 at

to soft play and realised there was a gap in

the market for a safe and affordable leisure

“We now have 25 staff working in both

and I enjoy juggling work with family life.

It’s hard but it’s the best thing I’ve ever

done.

her partner Richard, allowing her to follow

“As my own boss, I can organise my

setting up Fidgets in Whitley Bay.

which means if he needs me I can be there.

business commitments around my little boy

from networking event and talked about the benefits of making business-to-business connections and creating a network of trusted contacts.

She said: “It was a tremendous evening with an eclectic mix of business types meeting and mingling.

“Delegates came from right across the borough and I know everyone walked away with new contacts, as well as some new coffee dates in their diaries. It is events like these that lead to real business opportunities.”

The event also unveiled a range of support services now available to local companies through the Business Forum's new website.

“North Tyneside is a fantastic place to do business. There is a very positive and dynamic business culture here, which will be a huge advantage to the area when the economic upturn arrives.

Key speaker: Caroline Theobald with Eric Donjon, chairman of the Business Forum.

“I speak to so many parents who don’t

Many parents sell baby equipment on

think it’s possible to go back to work with

eBay – what about taking this to the

young children but setting up a small

next level and open a baby shop? Or why

answer – you can have a great business

services such as letter writing, marketing

home-based company could be the ideal

not offer local businesses administrative

and still be a great parent too!”

support or phone answering?

Nicky’s motto is - if you can manage a

The list of possibilities is endless – all it

family and get everyone ready in the

morning, get them to school on time, run around and have the housework done in

time for the school pick-up, then you can

easily run a business.

“I’ve found that running a business can

sometimes be lonely but North Tyneside is full of busy parents running businesses and

there’s a lot of good support networks out there, including the North Tyneside Business Forum,” she said.

There are many types of business which can easily be set up from home and managed around busy family lives.

takes is a little imagination and plenty of

self-belief.

If you’re interested in talking through your

ideas to see how you could run your own

home-based business, contact the Business

Forum or the Business Factory (see contact

details on pages 44/45).

Would you like to help?

The Business Forum provides advice, support and a range of activities to all local businesses.

Companies who sign up to be registered members receive a wider range of services, including inter-trading opportunities, events, free mentorship and an entry in our electronic directory.

Perhaps just as importantly, by becoming a registered member you become eligible to stand for election and take a seat on the forum’s management team. This means you can influence the direction of the Business Forum and help to guide its activities.

Find out more by either going online – click on the ‘About Us’ section, go to ‘Management Group’ and read our Terms of Reference – or ringing ( 0191) 643 6000.

47

Would you know if your teenager was in an abusive relationship?

While we may think our children

could never be affected, the truth is that abuse occurs surprisingly often in teenage relationships.

Sadly it’s often hidden or played down, because teenagers may have little

experience of relationships and have

‘romantic’ views of love.

Abuse in teenage relationships can take

many forms, including threats, emotional abuse, insults, isolation from friends and family, and controlling what someone

wears or who they socialise with. It can also include sex before they are ready, and rape.

This can happen over time, and your

teenager may not recognise the possessive behaviour as unhealthy. It can happen to

anyone regardless of age, gender or family situation.

What can you do?

Look out for signs. The following might be symptoms of problems: ●

●

●

●

● ●

48

Not spending time with usual friends Constantly checking a mobile phone

Being withdrawn or quieter than usual

Being angry or irritable when asked how things are Making excuses for a partner

Physical signs of injury, such as unexplained scratches or bruises

Where to get help The government has launched a new website for teenagers, dedicated to helping them explore and deal with issues around abuse in relationships.

Visit www.direct.gov.uk/thisisabuse

As a parent or carer, you can learn more about the signs, how to talk to your child, and where to get more advice, at www.direct.gov.uk/spotteenabuse

You can also call North Tyneside-based Acorns on (0191) 200 6302 for more information. Acorns offers help and information about domestic violence and abuse, to the under-18s.

She didn’t seem too concerned at first

but after a while I could see it was getting

to her.

I was worried and decided we needed a

chat. Getting her to open up wasn’t easy

but she did admit that Ben was checking her mobile, constantly putting her down and didn’t like her friends.

I managed to persuade her that

relationships involve respect and trust.

They don’t mean constantly worrying

about what the other person will do and whether they will become angry.

I’m pleased to say it finally sunk in and she’s back to her old self, now they’ve split up.

And I am so relieved we managed to talk

A mother’s story When my daughter Tori started going out with Ben, all seemed rosy. Then I noticed that he always wanted to know what she was doing, who she was texting and where she was going.

before things got worse.

Are you a carer ?

A carer is someone of any age who provides unpaid support to family

or friends who could not manage

without this help.

You could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems.

Many people feel they are doing what anyone else would in the same situation and don’t think of themselves as a ‘carer’.

However, there are more than 21,000 carers in North Tyneside and anyone can become a carer at any point in their lives.

There are a number of agencies in the borough that can provide advice and information to carers on various issues, including benefits, financial matters and support groups.

If you provide regular and substantial care, you can contact Social Services and request a carer’s assessment.

The purpose of the assessment is to help you think about your role as a carer, the impact that caring has on your health and well-being and enables you to talk to someone about the wide range of support available.

How to access respite care One of the services that you may be entitled to is respite. The aim of respite is to give you a much-needed break from your caring role and to help you maintain your own physical and mental health.

A break can assist you to continue in your caring role by helping you stay in, or seek, work, education and training or by giving you the time to take part in leisure and social activities.

Once a need has been identified, carers can choose from one of the three providers on the council’s Carers Respite Framework – Age UK North Tyneside, DH Homecare and North Tyneside Carers’ Centre.

You can also choose to access services

from another agency, provided the council

has a contract with that agency.

Carers can also take a Direct Payment and employ someone themselves, or

choose an agency of their own choice but

with whom the council does not have a

contract.

If you, or the person you care for,

currently have a social worker you can ask

them for more information. If not, please contact Adult Services First Call.

Useful numbers First Call – (0191) 643 2777

North Tyneside Carers’ Centre – (0191) 643 2298 Alzheimer’s Society – (0191) 257 1245

Age UK – (0191) 280 8484

Learning Disabilities Forum – (0191) 200 1100 PROPS – (0191) 270 4248

Have your say

North Tyneside Council, North

Tyneside Primary Care Trust and

organisations supporting carers in

the borough are developing a joint

Carers’ Strategy for North Tyneside.

If you would like to have your say and be involved, please contact

Claire Easton or Julie Tait at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre.

49

Free training available Residents looking to improve their skills to find work can access a range of courses – free of charge.

Adults can get financial support for a number of accredited courses offered by the council’s Adult Learning Alliance.

Learners who receive Income Support, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, Working Tax Credits or Pension Credit, and asylum seekers receiving income-based benefit, are all now potentially eligible for free study.

Up until now, these learners had only been eligible for a discounted rate.

Full funding is available for selected accredited courses that give learners the skills to move from unemployment into work.

Courses on offer include GCSEs, counselling, child minding, working with children, bricklaying, joinery and more.

Learners must sign an agreement to confirm they intend to get a job after they’ve completed their course.

For more details, contact the Adult Learning Alliance on (0191) 643 2288 or email curriculum.support@northtyneside.gov.uk

It’s never too late to learn Single mum Kim Burn is celebrating after picking up a prestigious award.

Kim, 28, from Dudley, scooped the Individual Learner of the Year title at the borough’s Adult Learner Awards.

The event celebrates the remarkable learning achievements of adults in North

Tyneside, with prizes being awarded in 10 categories.

Kim, whose dream is to become a teaching assistant, said: “I volunteer as a classroom helper at a local school and I’m currently taking two different qualifications. Education is so important and it’s helping me to improve my life.”

Library events

A range of talks and events are taking place at local libraries during November and December.

They include local writer Graham Pears talking about his latest novel, A Time for Justice, IT drop-in sessions and even a pantomime.

Friday, November 11 and Friday, November 25 – one-to-one IT sessions for the over-50s at Howdon Library (2 to 3.30pm). To book, ring 643 2070.

Thursday, November 17 – local historian Andrew Clark talks about Howdon and Wallsend in the 1930s, 40s and 50s at Howdon Library (2 to 3.30pm). To book, ring 643 2070.

Thursday, November 17 – crime writer Graham Pears talks about his latest novel at the White Swan Centre, Killingworth (7pm). To book, ring 643 2040.

Thursday, November 24 – Hazel Plater and Carl Taylor launch their book about the Riverside Club at North Shields Library (7pm). Tickets, £3 plus free glass of wine. To book, ring 643 5270.

Thursday, December 1 – the winning entries in Story Tyne – the annual short story contest – are revealed at Wallsend Library (5pm). To book, ring 643 2075.

Wednesday, December 14 – traditional family panto, Alice in Pantoland, performed by Act One Panto at the John Willie Sams Centre (7pm). To book, ring 643 2030.

Tickets are available now. Please note, there may be a small charge for some events.

51

Support for bereaved relatives The council has introduced a new service that aims to make things easier for residents during a time of bereavement.

When someone has died, their death needs to be registered with the Registrar. Once that’s done, several other organisations may have to be contacted and given the same information.

The ‘Tell Us Once’ service enables residents to inform government departments and local authority services of a death with one appointment or telephone call.

●

With a telephone call by contacting the DWP on 0800 085 7308 after you have registered the death. The lines are open Monday to Friday between 8am and 8pm. The number is free to call from a BT landline but other providers, including mobile phone providers, may charge you.

In person at North Tyneside Register

You will need to provide the following information about the person who has died – their National Insurance number and/or date of birth; details of any benefits or services they were receiving; their death certificate; their passport and driving licence numbers if you want the Tell Us Once service to deal with them.

Staff and pupils at Forest Hall Primary have celebrated the school’s centenary by finding out what life was like 100 years ago.

Head teacher Carmel Parker said: “We are so proud our school has been such a focal point in the community for the last 100 years.”

The scheme is a cross-government programme hosted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

There are two ways of using the service: ●

Office, Howard Street, North Shields, after the death has been registered.

To make an appointment, phone (0191) 200 6117.

Pupils step back in time Dressed in period costume and writing on slates, the youngsters took part in 1911-style lessons, watched a Punch and Judy show and enjoyed a special centenary fair.

In character: Year 6 pupils James Redshaw and Hannah Flemming.

Claims sought

Before 2004, some care fees were incorrectly paid by former mental health patients and refunds have been paid where possible.

The council now wants to trace any other people who were affected but haven’t yet made a claim.

If you, or a deceased relative, were detained (sectioned) under the Mental Health Act and paid the council fees for care or support before 2004, you (or the estate of your relative) may be entitled to a refund.

If you think that you, or someone you know, are entitled to a refund, please contact the council on (0191) 643 7318.

You can also write to Section 117 Claims, Adult Social Care, Quadrant West (3rd floor), The Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY.

Please note: You will be asked to provide the following information: ●

● ●

● ●

The full name and date of birth of the patient.

The patient’s last-known address.

Confirmation they lived in North Tyneside when they were detained and paid fees to North Tyneside Council.

Your relationship to the patient.

Your contact details.

All claims must be submitted before December 31, 2011.

52

Be on your guard!

Residents are being urged to be on their guard against dodgy door-to-door traders.

The council’s trading standards team

issued the warning after an increase in

enquiries involving roofing, guttering and paving work.

Although it is not illegal for traders to seek

work by knocking on doors, residents are

being asked to carefully consider the work or service being offered.

Cllr George Westwater, cabinet member

for Regulatory Services, said: “Decisions

made on the doorstep may result in work being done which isn’t necessary or more costly than expected.

The foursome, all aged 18 or 19, worked alongside various teams during September to gain a better understanding of the public sector and local culture.

RIEF

“We want to make sure residents know

what to look out for and how they can

check if someone is legitimate.”

If a trader knocks on your door and asks if

you need work doing – and if the cost is

more than £35 – they must provide a

written notice stating you have the right to

cancel within seven days. Failure to provide

such a notice is a criminal offence.

Residents are advised to seek a number of quotations before having any work done or contact trading standards (0845 600

6400) for a list of reputable local traders.

You can also contact Consumer Direct on

08454 04 05 06 for advice on doorstep selling.

It’s time to say goodbye North Tyneside has said arrivederci to four Italian students, who have been working at Quadrant, the council’s HQ, to develop their language skills.

New B s in

The visit was arranged in partnership with Christine Goodwin, who runs the Northumbria School of English.

Flag wavers: Fabrizio Ricciardi, Simona Rochira, Miriana Di Biccari and Luana Delli Carri.

A new book marking the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion is now available at local libraries.

George Cross holder Matt Croucher has written 90 Years of Heroes to raise funds for the legion, which provides support for the country’s servicemen and women.

Copies are available to buy at North Shields and Killingworth libraries and to borrow from other libraries in the borough.

Trading standards officers are visiting local pubs, clubs and restaurants to make sure they are complying with new smoking laws.

From October, it became illegal to sell tobacco directly to the public from a vending machine. Business owners face hefty fines, or even jail, if they break the laws.

For more details about the new legislation, contact trading standards on 08454 04 05 06.

Tynemouth Gilbert and Sullivan Society is staging a Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 3 at St. Augustine’s Church, Jackson Street, North Shields.

The concert, which starts at 7.30pm, includes the society’s chorus and soloists.

It will feature carols, hymns and ‘Prom’-based music.

Tickets cost £7. For details, email tickets@tgss.co.uk or call (0191) 252 6714.

53

New deal will help gas trainees

Young people who want to be gas engineers will be able to gain valuable hands-on training in the region, thanks to a new venture.

The contract, between Kier North Tyneside and leading training provider JTL, will see all JTL gas trainees carry out their appliances assessments in a new state-of-the-art centre at Killingworth.

JTL regional manager Rob Moore said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Kier North Tyneside.

“We are highly committed to providing high quality apprenticeships and training opportunities and working closely with Kier is a great way to do this.”

Gas Training at Kier, launched by Kier Maintenance North, is built on the site of the former British Gas training centre.

It offers BPEC-accredited training and reassessments, enabling engineers to stay up-to-date with current gas legislation.

The centre also provides a tailored package for candidates resettling after serving in the armed forces. This includes everything from arranging transport and accommodation during training to providing invaluable work experience opportunities with Kier team members.

With ex-service personnel making up some of the Gas Training at Kier team, they are ideally placed to deliver first-rate training opportunities, as well as being able to provide help and guidance on all aspects of resettlement.

Kier regional director Mike Furze said: “It is illegal for an operative to work on gas installations in the UK unless they are Gas

Professional approach: Kier employees Gemma Bruce and Craig Tampin.

Safe Registered (either individually or

through a company) and hold valid and

relevant gas qualifications.

“We are committed to supporting local people to retrain or learn new skills.

We hope Gas Training at Kier will be

effective in tackling worklessness in the

region and helpful to people considering a change of career.”

For more information on Gas Training at

Kier, please visit www.gastrainingatkier.co.uk For details of courses and qualifications,

call the gas training hotline on (0191) 643 2233.

Joint effort

Kier North Tyneside is a partnership between the council and Kier Building Maintenance.

It is responsible for carrying out repairs and maintenance to the authority’s housing stock of more than 15,000 properties and other council-owned buildings.

It employs more than 450 staff – with around two thirds living locally.

To contact the customer services team at Kier North Tyneside, phone 0345 2000 102.

55

ANNUAL REPORT 2010/11 It gives me great pleasure to present the council’s Annual Report.

Linda Arkley, Elected Mayor

Some of the achievements in delivering the Council Plan during 2010/11 were: Our families and children ●

●

●

North Tyneside’s new Learning Trust, set up in September 2010, is developing strategies to raise the aspirations and achievements of young people.

An extra 255 homes were provided – helping to meet the needs and aspirations of local people.

As part of the Warm Zone partnership, improved insulation measures were installed at 14,700 homes – saving residents an estimated £1.8m in energy costs coupled with an estimated reduction of 300,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

●

●

More than 750 residents were given employability support through the joint Working Homes project with Jobcentre Plus and 215 helped to find a job.

Five star team: North Tyneside was awarded the highest possible rating in the Clean Britain Awards.

The Business Property Improvement Scheme was completed.

Getting more for less ●

●

Backing business ●

The Accessible Bus Network was launched in March 2011.

●

The target of 1,000 ease card members was achieved by December 2010 and the total number of ease card EXTRA 60+ members stood at 1,531 by the end of the year.

Benefit take up campaigns have been developed; outreach services extended and an out-of-hours helpline has been set up.

A central register of advice services has been created and can be accessed through the council website.

A safer, cleaner, greener North Tyneside ●

●

●

The council has continued to install 20 mph zones in residential areas and outside all schools.

In the Clean Britain Awards, North Tyneside was awarded five stars – the highest possible rating – for cleanliness levels in the borough.

Recycling levels were the highest ever with 5,000 tonnes less waste collected. More than 730 trees were planted across the borough.

Shaping North Tyneside ●

●

More than 1,800 people attended an area forum during 2010/11 – helping to decide how to spend £1m on roads and pavements and £200,000 on environmental projects.

The Young Mayor and Youth Council continued to lead and encourage young people to influence decisions that affect them.

The regeneration of North Tyneside ●

●

●

56

Annual Report 2010/11

Tesco’s decision to locate part of its banking operation at Quorum will bring 1,000 jobs into the borough.

Specialist offshore engineering company SMD announced a threefold expansion of its operations.

The council invested in significant cycling infrastructure improvements, including completing the Coast and Castles route. The number of people cycling in the borough on an average weekday has doubled since 2005.

Summary of Accounts 2010/11 Revenue Expenditure

This is spending on the day-to-day running expenses of the council. It includes expenses such as salaries & wages, heating, lighting, rent, rates and stationery. The statement below represents the cost of running council services between April 2010 and March 2011, identifying where the money came from to finance these costs.

Net Expenditure Central Services to the Public

Cultural, Environmental, Regulatory & Planning Children’s & Education Services Highways & Transport Services

£000s 993

51,826 42,758

3,871

Council Housing

159,205

Housing Services

1,902

Adult Social Care Corporate & Democratic Core

Costs not allocated to a specific area

65,039

5,805 9,961

Pension Past Service Cost

(93,887)

Cost of Service

247,473

Other operating Expenditure

Financing & Investment Income & Expenditure

135,942 28,835

The Cost of Service is the cost of the services provided by the council such as schools, waste collection etc after taking account of any income or grants received

Taxation and Non-Specific Grant Income

(203,345)

This includes Council Tax, National Non-Domestic Rates and Government Grants

Deficit on Provision of Services

208,905

Other accounting treatments are adjustments that are required by statute to be included when calculating the General Fund Deficit, but need then to be reversed out as they have no effect on the Council’s General Fund Balance

Other accounting treatments

Net increase in General Fund Balance for year

(210,079)

(1,174)

Full explanations of all of the terms used can be obtained from the glossary within the Statement of Accounts, which is available on the council’s website.

Cash Movements

As at the 31 March 2011, the Council had balances relating to Cash & Cash Equivalents of £10.835m compared to £24.683m at the 31 March 2010. This is an overall decrease in Cash & Cash Equivalents Movements of £13.848m. Cash balances have deliberately been reduced to limit the council’s treasury management risk.

57

Summary of Accounts 2010/11

Balance Sheet – what we own and what we owe

The Balance Sheet is a snapshot at 31 March 2011 of how much the council’s land and buildings are worth, what the council owes and what is owed to the council, together with how much cash the council has.

Net Assets £000s Property, Plant & Equipment

908,842

Cash in Bank & Short Term Deposits

10,835

Investments

752

Stock

593

Money owed to the council

40,984

Money owed by the council

(780,105)

Total Assets less Liabilities

181,899

Useable Reserves

(52,371)

Unuseable Reserves

(129,528)

Total Reserves

Housing Revenue Account

The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) records Income and Expenditure on the management and maintenance of council housing. During 2010/11, the council was responsible for 15,522 properties.

(181,899)

Expenditure

Repairs and Maintenance

Supervision & Management

HRA Subsidy Payable

11,204

12,079 3,907

181,449

Total

218,798

Other Expenditure

10,159

Dwelling Rents

(45,251)

Other Income

(3,955)

Charges for Services

(1,749)

Total

(50,955)

Net accounting deficit for year

167,843

Net accounting adjustments Net increase for year

Annual Report 2010/11

£000s

Capital Charges

Income

58

Money owed by the council includes an estimate of £324m for pensions that is fully offset by a reserve.

(168,908) (1,065)

Summary of Accounts 2010/11

Capital Expenditure

Capital expenditure generally is money spent by the council on purchasing, improving and upgrading assets such as council houses, roads and other buildings.

1%

7%

Capital Expenditure 2010/11

20%

Central Services £17.117m

7%

Cultural & Related £5.425m

Children & Education Services £9.945m 45%

12%

Highways & Transport £6.536m

During 2010/11, the council spent £83.817m on capital projects including: East Palmersville Recreational Ground, Fenwick Eccles Land Reclamation, Local Transport Plan, Wallsend Swimming Pool, Education & Schools and Housing Schemes.

Adult Social Care £0.232m

Council Housing £37.743m 0%

2%

Planning Services £1.053m

8%

Environment & Regulatory £5.766m

Capital Financing 2010/11

7%

Supported Borrowing £5.628m

17%

Unsupported Borrowing £44.955m 54%

Capital Receipts £5.484m Government Grants £11.793m Capital Grants & Contributions £14.122m

14% 6%

Direct Revenue Financing £1.835m

Chief Finance Officer’s Statement

The council’s Statement of Accounts has

been prepared in line with the required regulations. These accounts can be

they give a true and fair view of the

council’s financial position for 2010/11.

complex so we hope that this summary

A full copy of the council’s 2010/11

understandable way. It shows the council’s

our website:

2011 and a snapshot of our financial

democracy/council finances/statement

The Audit Commission has audited the

We’d love to get your comments on this

presents the information in a useful and spending for the year ended 31 March position at that year end.

Statement of Accounts and agreed that

Statement of Accounts is available on

www.northtyneside.gov.uk/council and of accounts

Please telephone (0191) 643 5800 or

email jon.ritchie@northtyneside.gov.uk with

any comments.

Fiona Rooney CPFA

Chief Finance Officer

Quadrant, The Silverlink North, Cobalt

Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY

summary.

59

Keep it local North Tyneside Council is committed to helping small businesses.

If your company or shop is based in the borough, you can advertise in this section free of charge.

Just send us the following details and we’ll put your entry in the next available issue: • Name of company or shop • Brief (25 words maximum) description of your business • Phone, email and/or web address

CL Cleaning Services

We provide a professional, fully-trained and insured domestic and commercial cleaning service in North Tyneside and the surrounding area. Tel: (0191) 258 5752 or 0774 650 4233

Email: clcleaning@hotmail.co.uk www.clcarpetcleaning.co.uk

Geordies Everywhere

A one-stop online shop for a wide range of fun and quirky products – designed, made and relating to the North East.

Email: info@geordieseverywhere.co.uk

www.geordieseverywhere.co.uk

Hopper Holidays

Outdoor boarding for rabbits in fantastic large sheds with runs. Can cater for any size rabbit, including giants and groups. Tel: 0773 605 0511

Email: hopperholidays@gmail.com www.hopperholidays.co.uk

Slimming World

Wednesdays – Oxford Street Methodist Church, Whitley Bay (9.30am and 11am) and Valley Gardens Middle School, Monkseaton, (6.15pm).

Thursdays – Spring Gardens Primary School, North Shields (6.15pm)

Tel: 0795 022 1515 Email: june.patterson@blueyonder.co.uk

The Feel Good Factory

Hate gyms? Try our revolutionary power-assisted exercise system which makes shaping-up easy. For a free trial, contact Janet on (0191) 257 2644.

Email: jyoungj62@gmail.com

60

www.thefeelgoodfactory.org

Please note: Space is allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Adverts not used in one edition will receive priority for the next. First-time advertisers take priority over repeat requests.

The next issue of Widening Horizons will be published in March 2012. The deadline for adverts is February 1.

Send your details to: steve.forshaw@northtyneside.gov.uk Why not keep this section handy? You never know what you need – or when you’ll need it!

Sophie’s Driving School First FOUR lessons for £30. Discounted block bookings.

Tel: 0754 024 6799

www.sophiesdrivingschool.co.uk

Deserve Architectural

Commercial and domestic plans drawn for planning and building regulation approval. Extensions, alterations, loft conversions, garden rooms and new build.

Tel: (0191) 262 3155 www.designservices.tk

Relatively Helpful

Family history tutoring, in small groups or on an individual basis, at the Shiremoor Centre. Courses start September and January.

Tel: (0191) 266 2515

www.relativelyhelpful.co.uk

Wag ‘n Walk at the coast

Dog walking and sitting service. Healthy walks and ‘thinking’ games produce calmer, contented dogs. Individual ‘good manners’ sessions also available.

Tel: 0753 601 4201 Email: wagnwalkatthecoast@yahoo.co.uk

At Your Side

Reliable domestic cleaning company, using experienced, insured and fully-vetted cleaners. We offer regular or one-off cleaning, ironing and befriending services at a competitive price.

Tel: (0191) 253 7794

www.atyoursidecleaning.co.uk

Keep it local Earth Friendly Supplies

Specialising in environmentally-friendly decorating products, including recycled paint. We supply trade customers and the general public.

Tel: (0191) 296 4344 or 0793 1498 419

Email: info@earthfriendlysupplies.co.uk www.earthfriendlysupplies.co.uk

Fashion Jewellery UK

Specialising in contemporary costume jewellery – fashion necklaces, bracelets/cuffs, earrings, brooches, rings, cufflinks, tie-pins, scarves and bags. Website and eBay shop.

Email: sales@fashionjewelleryuk.net www.fashionjewelleryuk.net

Baby Buttercup

Experienced and qualified parenting practitioner offering baby massage and wiggly jiggles at a venue near you! Tel: 0794 920 5037

Email: info@babybuttercup.co.uk www.babybuttercup.co.uk

Howard – Spiritual Connection Clairvoyant medium. Psychic readings. Spiritual healing. Single or party bookings.

Tel: 07981 166 433

All aerial and satellite work carried out – installation, repairs, renewals and upgrades. For a reliable, high quality service, call Danny.

Tel: 07850 380 161 Email: info@airbandaerials.com

John Edward Web Design

Professional websites for business start-ups, sole traders and small businesses. Reseller of web hosting and domain names.

Tel: 07964 878 098

Email: info@johnedwardwebdesign.co.uk www.johnedwardwebdesign.co.uk

Birth Basics

Antenatal courses, relax and breathe for labour, Doula service, baby massage, drop-ins and parenting support. Tel: 0788 577 4279

Email: janine@birthbasics.co.uk www.birthbasics.co.uk

Little Snorters

A doggy daycare/boarding business in North Tyneside, specialising in small dogs. Tel: 0797 329 1666

Email: leah@littlesnorters.co.uk www.littlesnorters.com

SmokieJo Gems

A beautiful, original and affordable range of high quality handcrafted jewellery. One-off designs in semi-precious gemstones, silver, sparkling crystal and wood.

Tel: 0790 353 4707 www.smokiejogems.co.uk

Slow Computers Fixed

The North East specialists in making your computer work faster and more smoothly than ever before. 25 per cent discount with this advert.

Tel: 0800 148 8940 www.slowcomputersfixed.com

Newcastle Pet Sitters

We teach animal owners how to keep their pets happy, through walks and play. We offer animal massage for upset, stressed animals.

Tel: 07513 741 058

Airband Aerials

Email: newcastlepetsitters.co.uk

Nicola Scholes Acupuncture

Based at the Physio Room, Whitley Lodge Shopping Centre.

Acupuncture can be useful for most problems. Nicola has a special interest in infertility and pregnancy.

Tel: 0794 910 7167 www.nicolascholesacupuncture.co.uk

Choices Pregnancy Advice Centre

We offer unconditional acceptance and support to those facing issues related to unplanned pregnancy, termination trauma, miscarriage and baby loss.

Tel: (0191) 252 2020 www.choicespregnancy.org.uk

Squiggles N Giggles CIC

Messy, creative and sensory play for babies and children. Sessions – Monday to Friday for under-twos and two to five year-olds. Check out Facebook. Tel: 0780 571 3965

Email: info@squigglesngiggles.com www.squigglesngiggles.com

North Tyneside Council does not accept any responsibility for the businesses listed above.

61

Keep it local Lase-Away

Safe, affordable laser tattoo removal and body-piercing clinic. Based in Nile Street, North Shields. Local authority registered.

Tel: 0771 324 325

www.lase-away.co.uk

Osborne Appointments

Are you looking for a job? We can help you find employment in the North Tyneside area. Either email your CV or phone for an appointment.

Tel: (0191) 240 3288 or 07583 181 437.

Email: safia@osborneappointments.co.uk

Asbestos

Hoggarth Associates Ltd – specialists in surveying and advising on asbestos materials to comply with all current Health & Safety Executive regulations.

Domestic and commercial clients.

Tel: 0780 872 7903 Email: hoggarth@w-bay.fsnet.co.uk

Roberts Commercial

We provide a wide range of commercial property and business sales services, including sales and lettings, business transfer and much more.

Tel: (0191) 280 3285

Email: enquiries@robertscommercial.co.uk www.robertscommercial.co.uk

Physio Room

For all your physiotherapy needs. We also offer traditional acupuncture, sports massage, aromatherapy and counselling. 25 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Lodge Shopping Centre.

Tel: (0191) 251 5944 www.physioroom.biz

M & J Auto Salvage

Do you need your old vehicle removed? Best prices paid. We are fully licensed and can collect in 24 hours. Wallsend Road, North Shields.

Contact Kevin Gaffney. Mobile - 07850 531 258.

Tel: (0191) 296 1616 Email: kevin@mjautosalvage.com

MGL Plumbing & Heating

Combi boiler installations. All gas appliances services and repaired. CP12 landlord checks. All types of plumbing. Free estimates, all work guaranteed.

Gas Safe registered engineer.

Tel: (0191) 289 9931 or 0796 266 4388

62

Photography Training Courses

With Neil Atkinson. Get to know your camera on a fun one-day beginner’s course. Weekend/midweek sessions. Gift vouchers available.

Tel: 0774 816 6364 www.neilatkinson.com

Temple Plastering

Small enough to care, big enough to cope. All aspects of plastering covered. Insurance work welcome.

Tel : 0798 930 9757 (Barry) or 0797 603 9995 (Craig)

Counselling Tree

Within the Physio Room – 25 Claremont Crescent, Whitley Lodge Shopping Centre. Special offers for stress management/counselling during November and December. To book, contact Andrea Howmans.

Tel: (0191) 251 5944

Email: counsellingtree@mail.com www.counsellingtree.co.uk

Tynemouth Decorators Ltd

Painting and property maintenance. Private and commercial painting and decorating company, based in North Tyneside. Tel: (0191) 296 4344 or 0793 1498 419 Email: info@tynemouthdecorators.co.uk www.tynemouthdecorators.co.uk

Rosewill Cottage

Develop your skills at our social beading evenings or celebrate your child’s birthday in style with a jewellery-making party at 188, Park View, Whitley Bay.

Tel: (0191) 252 0176

www.rosewills-charms.co.uk/cottage

Sound IT Services

Computer repairs, upgrades, network installation and set-up. Software, accessory and computer sales. For home use, business and education.

PAT testing for business, education and public establishments.

Tel: (0191) 268 3569 Email: sales@sound-it.co.uk www.sound-it.co.uk

Northern Doctors Urgent Care

GP out-of-hours provider. Out-of-hours GP care. 6.30pm to 8am (Monday to Friday) and 24 hours a day at weekends and bank holidays.

Tel: 0845 60 80 320

www.northern-doctors.org

Keep it local Heslop Appliances

12 Coast Road, Wallsend. We offer a full range of built-in and freestanding kitchen appliances. Trade discounts available.

Tel: (0191) 263 4296

www.heslop-appliances.co.uk

Aiyana Beauty – mobile technician

Semi-permanent make-up. Enhancing natural beauty, giving shape and definition to your features. Ideal for people with allergies, poor sight, alopecia or who have undergone chemotherapy.

Tel: 0778 346 2090 www.aiyanabeauty.co.uk

Image Makers Picture Framing

Bespoke picture framing to public and trade. Supply of local and international framed prints. Located opposite Home Bargains, North Shields.

Tel: (0191) 258 5610 Email: pearsonimns@aol.com

C & G Cakes

We design and create unique celebration cakes, cupcakes, cakepops and cake cones. We stock icings, boards, boxes and decorations. Or pop in for a cupcake. 85, Station Road, Forest Hall. Tel: (0191) 266 8076 Email: candgcakes@hotmail.co.uk www.candgcakes.vpweb.co.uk

Xpress Urself

A brand new stage school, based at Cullercoats Methodist Church, The Broadway. Every Saturday (10am to 1pm) – acting, singing and dancing taught by industry professionals. Tel: 0789 536 2603 Email: aaron@xpress-urself.co.uk www.xpress-urself.co.uk

Amberley Driving School

Independent local driving school for the North Tyneside and Newcastle area. Competitive rates. Qualified ADI and Pass Plus registered.

Tel: 0754 592 3473 www.amberleydrivingschool.co.uk

out! northeast magazine

News, features, lifestyle and listings magazine for lgbt people. Download your copy free online or email us to join the mailing list.

Email: out@outnortheast.com

www.outnortheast.com

Natasha Dudman Singing Academy Private singing tuition for ages from six to 18. Musical theatre, pop, regular showcases. Based in Forest Hall.

Tel: 0794 165 9840 Email: tashabearman@yahoo.co.uk

Bea’s Garden Services

Personal, friendly, professional gardening service. Offering lawn care, border maintenance, general tidy-ups, hedge work, planting, turf laying and features. Call Steven today.

Tel: (0191) 263 9277 or 0780 538 0202

Slimming World

Lose weight the extra easy way! Every Thursday (5.30 and 7.30pm) at Bailey Green Primary School, Killingworth. Phone Rachel.

Tel: 0795 082 2853

WPS Bathrooms

Bathroom installations and plumbing services. Free estimates and friendly advice. Wetroom specialist. No job too small. Phone Shawn.

Tel: 0779 163 6314 Email: wpsbathrooms@yahoo.co.uk

Amanda Nicole School of Dance

Classes available – from two year-old to adult – in all dance styles. First lesson free. We employ professional, CRB-checked instructors. 122a, Bewicke Road, Willington Quay.

Tel: (0191) 289 2262

www.amandanicole.co.uk

BnC Tiling and Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring (supply and/or fit), wall & floor tiling services. Reliable and friendly. Free quotations and home visits. Free delivery on orders.

Contact Barry Tiernan. Tel: 07946 066 820 Email: bnctiling@hotmail.co.uk www.bnctiling-laminateflooring.co.uk

FLEXNTONE

Personalised affordable exercise and nutritional plan – lose weight, improve muscle tone or add strength. Get in shape this Christmas and New Year with sessions that are fun and energising. Tel: 0780 988 2681

Email: flexntone@hotmail.com www.flexntone.com

North Tyneside Council does not accept any responsibility for the businesses listed above.

63

Where exceptional comes as standard

Warkworth Grange | Wantage Avenue | North Shields | NE29 7BE

A quality home at an exclusive price just for you Bett have teamed up with North Tyneside Council to help local people step on the property ladder. If you live or work in the borough, you may be eligible for an exclusive 25% discount off the purchase price of one of Bett's great new 2 and 3 bedroom homes.

Warkworth Grange is a stunning collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes designed to meet today's contemporary lifestyles. Contact us to find out more.

2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £71,246*

Let’s talk Now it’s even easier to make an appointment. Simply call or go to our website.

Marketing Suite open Thursday to Monday 11am – 5pm

08442 578611 betthomes.com/warkworthgrange *Offer on selected plots only. Price based on 75% of the full asking price £94,995. Eligibility criteria applies: applicants must have a combined annual income of less than £60,000, either live or work in the borough of North Tyneside, want to move to the borough to take up employment or to care for a relative living in the borough. These homes are to provide a sole residence for successful applicants and are not available to investors on a buy-to-let basis. Applications will be approved by the council. Prices correct at time of going to press. Images representative only.