Widening Horizons October 2010 by North Tyneside Council

horizons widening

October 2010

Guide to councillors Review of Services - join the debate Age Takes Centre Stage - full details

nd u o r g y a Pl is a big e! r u t n e v ad

Keeping you informed | www.northtyneside.gov.uk

horizons widening

October 2010

Inside this issue Mayor’s message

It’s easy!

If you would like to comment on any of the articles in Widening Horizons, please write or send an email to:

Age Takes Centre Stage

Steve Forshaw Marketing & Communications (3rd floor right) Quadrant The Silverlink North Cobalt Business Park North Tyneside NE27 0BY

Guide to councillors

On the beat

Keep it local

North Tyneside Council produces Widening Horizons for the residents of the borough. The magazine is printed five times a year and distributed to every home in the borough. Our aim is to keep you informed about what the council and its partners are doing to improve life for people in North Tyneside.

Email: steve.forshaw@northtyneside.gov.uk The next issue of Widening Horizons will be distributed from November 8.

North Tyneside Council wants to make it easier for you to get hold of the information you need. We are able to provide our documents in other formats including Braille, audiotape, large print and alternative languages. For further information please call (0191) 643 5080. Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it.

Elected Mayor Linda Arkley talks about the latest issues facing the borough. Find out about the new ease EXTRA 60+ discount card for older people. What’s happening – and where – during this year’s festival for the over-50s. Find out who your ward councillors are – and how to contact them. A round-up of some of the police initiatives taking place in North Tyneside. Two pages of classified adverts featuring small businesses from around the borough.

Key council phone numbers 0345 2000 101 – 0345 2000 102 – 0345 2000 103 – 0345 2000 104 – 0345 2000 105 – 0345 2000 107 – 0345 2000 108 –

General enquiries Housing and Kier repairs Envirolink Council tax and benefits Report a racial incident Payments Families Information Service

You can also email the council at: contact.us@northtyneside.gov.uk

Front cover: Youngsters try out the new adventure playground in Shiremoor. Full story – page 43.

NTC GRAPHICS 08/10 3383JWI

Admission to Schools September 2011 The procedure for dealing with applications for admission/transfers to North Tyneside Schools in September 2011 starts in the week commencing Monday, 6 September 2010. This applies to all parents/carers who are resident within the area of North Tyneside. North Tyneside will be offering an

Online Admissions Service for entry in September 2011. If you have access to

a computer and you wish to complete your application online, you can find a link to this service at

www.northtyneside.gov.uk or go directly to:

schooladmissions.northtyneside.gov.uk /admit_transfer to access this service.

Full details of the council's admission

within North Tyneside, you will still

contained in an information brochure

Council.

need to apply to North Tyneside

procedures, and how to apply, are The Essential Guide to North

Tyneside Schools and on the website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk

●

stage of their education, he/she will

North Tyneside schools, libraries and

also be issued with the same

customer service points.

If your child is starting school for the first time in September 2011 and they attend a North Tyneside

nursery school, they will be issued with The Essential Guide to

North Tyneside Schools brochure and a Common Application Form. If you are applying for a first/

primary school, which is NOT

Tyneside primary or middle school and is due to transfer to the next

Copies will also be available at all

●

If your child attends a North

brochure and form. ●

If your child DOES NOT attend a

North Tyneside primary or middle

school but is due to transfer to the next stage of their education, you will need to complete a North Tyneside form.

In all of the above cases the form needs to be completed and returned on or

before Monday, 1 November 2010 for middle and high school applications, and Monday, 17 January 2011 for primary/first school applications.

Forms should be returned to your

child's current nursery/school or direct to the Access Team at the address below.

North Tyneside Council

Quadrant West, Silverlink North

Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside NE27 0BY

Tel (0191) 643 8724.

widening horizons • October 2010

Mayor’s message that we can identify land that can be used for employment, so we can ensure we work with our partners to attract investment and jobs.

Dear resident, As you read this, the council will be moving towards the deadline for this round of consultation on the Core Strategy – a plan to help us discuss the future use of land in North Tyneside. I am delighted that so many of you have engaged in the consultation and shared your views with us – on everything from housing and employment to the provision of gypsy and traveller sites. I want to use this opportunity to reassure you that we are listening to your views and to explain how the process will progress. The Core Strategy is a document that every council in the country was asked to produce by the government two years ago. The aim of the document is to identify how land across the borough could be used – and also to discourage some uses in specific areas. For example, we know that residents of a housing estate would have concerns if we allocated land within it for factory development. But it is also important

The Core Strategy Preferred Options Report is our planning team’s suggestions about how North Tyneside could allocate land and meet the borough’s needs for development sites up to 2027. I fully understand that not everyone will agree with those proposals. That is why we have embarked on an extensive programme of consultation with our residents and key partners – businesses, landowners, our young people and many more. I have extended the consultation period by a month – until Friday, September 24, because I was aware there is so much interest. I can reassure you that no decisions have been taken on any aspect of the Core Strategy report. In fact, we know already that changes in the government’s policies mean that amendments will be made to some of the current proposals. For example, the government has announced councils will no longer need to provide gypsy and traveller sites, so we will implement any new guidelines. And there are plenty of opportunities for you to have your say on the report’s contents in the future. So what happens next?

All the comments we receive will be used in the preparation of the Draft Core Strategy, which will go to a meeting of the Full Council in January 2011. There will be a further period of consultation on the Draft Core Strategy and all representations will be submitted with the plan when it is sent to government and subject to a public examination, probably during 2011 by an independent inspector. Even after this extensive consultation, the public and stakeholders will still be encouraged to have their say. For example, under the normal planning process the public can comment on any planning application. So finally, can I say thank you to everyone for getting involved.We are committed to ensuring that all our residents get every opportunity to help us shape our decisions and services. And can I urge everyone to use their voice again on a new and very important consultation process that we have launched around our future services and spending review. You can read about the review on the following pages - but as it’s very much about the services we provide for you, and how we spend your money, we would appreciate your feedback.

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How can we provide value for money for you? Residents and businesses will be well aware of the financial challenges being faced by local government. Nationally, there is a need to tackle a government budget deficit that is projected to be £148bn in 2010/11. All councils will receive lower levels of government funding.This means all local authorities are looking to change the way they provide services. North Tyneside Council has a commitment to manage its level of debt and ensure taxpayers’ money is spent effectively. We are not only looking at the forthcoming budget for the next financial year but also reviewing how we deliver services and spend money in the longer term. To ensure we can achieve maximum value for money while still meeting local needs, the council is challenging itself to think about how it does things.

Council staff have been asked to turn the spotlight on themselves and identify how the organisation could do things better and achieve savings. More than 300 responses are being looked at. Residents and businesses will also be involved – through, for example, future meetings of area forums and the new business forum. To help residents understand some of the issues that the council may need to consider when making future decisions, we are highlighting some in this issue of Widening Horizons. Over the next four pages, we have focused on waste collection, school meals and how we produce Widening Horizons. If you want to let us know your views on how the council can provide a better service or save money, please: Email: feedback@northtyneside.gov.uk Or write to: Resident Feedback, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant, Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside NE27 0BY.

REVIEW OF SERVICES

What can we do with £1m? When the council is considering its future service and spending plans, it is dealing with decisions that can involve millions of pounds. But do you know what £1m a year can provide? ●

●

It is the cost of running a leisure centre. It can provide 20 care packages for people with learning disabilities. It can provide care for 40 people to live in a residential care home. It is half the cost of sweeping streets in Wallsend, Tynemouth, Longbenton and Whitley Bay. It is the cost of running an average school with 300 pupils. It can provide alternative homes for 17 vulnerable children.

Under review: Street cleaning is one of the services the council is looking at to see if it can deliver better value for money.

REVIEW OF SERVICES

Waste collection It’s one of the country’s great waste debates – how often should rubbish be collected? In North Tyneside, it’s one of the things we’d like residents to start thinking about too. The frequency of waste collection is one of a number of options we’re looking at in a bid to make services more environmentally sustainable and efficient. Changing to Segregated Weekly Collections (SWCs) – recyclables collected one week and refuse the next – and collecting over four days each week instead of five, would save the council around £700,000 each year. These savings would be through the need for fewer crews and vehicles as well as less fuel being needed.

But would fortnightly collections lead to overflowing and unhygienic bins? Back in 2000, we collected about 15.5kg of waste each week from the average household rubbish bin - today it’s only 13.3kg from the rubbish and recycling bins together. It means that, on average, rubbish bins are less than a half full each week. Segregated waste leads to further reductions in waste and more recycling because householders become more aware of what they throw away.This means a reduction in waste that goes to landfill, which is a major source of greenhouse gases that the council is seeking to reduce at every opportunity.

What do you think? As well as exploring how to reduce waste costs, we’re also looking for new ways to help meet our costs – many of the methods already occur in other areas of the region. Do you think it would be reasonable to charge £20 for a replacement bin and £5 for a new caddy? It could provide £29,000. Would you still want a garden waste collection service if we charged for it? This could generate around £250,000. And if we halted the garden waste collection service over the winter, when there is less garden waste to collect, it could save £30,000. How would you feel if a service that is used by a minority of residents is paid for only by those using it? If we introduced a £10 standard charge for all special/bulky collections, this could provide an additional income of £150,000. Let us know what you think – contact details are on page 7.

widening horizons • October 2010

REVIEW OF SERVICES

School meals What would you pay for a freshly cooked two-course meal? You may choose from a selection of hot dishes served with seasonal vegetables, a meat-free option, a jacket potato option, a free salad bar and fresh bread, followed by a hot or cold dessert. Would £1.80 sound reasonable? In North Tyneside, we’ve been serving up the lowest-priced primary and middle school meals in the area since 2007. Lunch has cost just £1.60 per day, for the last three years.This is lower than in neighbouring authorities, where parents can pay as much as £2 a day.

No sweets, crisps or savoury snacks, instead there is the option to choose from homemade fruit cookies or cakes. No more than two deep-fried foods, such as chips and batter-coated products, in a single week. All freshly prepared in school each morning. North Tyneside Council dishes up more than 1,350,000 schools meals every year! Our primary and middle school meals provide the right kinds of foods to help your child learn and our regular analysis shows they exceed the rigorous school food standards set by the government.

To reflect this rise in quality, and to cover rising costs including ingredients and fuel, the council is considering a small increase in the price. We are consulting on a new price of £1.80 per day, which would still be among the lowest in the region. And setting the price at £1.80 means we can continue to deliver healthy, nutritious school meals to the 7,000 pupils who enjoy them each day, without affecting quality or service. Chew over the proposals and let us know what you think! Contact details are on page 7.

But even though our prices haven’t increased, the quality and healthiness of our meals certainly have. Pupils now benefit from: More fruit and vegetables included in every meal with a free salad bar in most primary dining rooms. More oily fish, such as salmon, served at least once every three weeks. A wider choice of meals and regular menu changes. Healthier drinks such as water or milk.

REVIEW OF SERVICES

Widening Horizons When we relaunched our residents’ magazine, we filled it full of the articles and information you told us you wanted to read about. Since then, we’re pleased to say the response to the new-look magazine has been very favourable. For example, the 2010 Residents’ Survey, which involved an independent company carrying out interviews with more than 2,500 residents, found that 63 per cent said they obtained most of their information about the council from Widening Horizons – more than double the next most popular form of media. And 84 per cent said they remembered seeing a copy in the previous three months – the fourth

successive increase in the last four years.

to offset our overall production costs.

However, the current economic situation is making the council take a hard look at everything it does and Widening Horizons is no exception.

At the same time, we’re planning to redesign the magazine – including shorter articles that are easier to read and snippets of information that keep you in touch with what the council is doing.

We’re very aware that we need to cut costs and save money while still providing information about the council and its partners that you need. Each individual copy of Widening Horizons costs between 15p and 16p to produce and we’re looking to reduce that figure by cutting the number of pages in each issue – possibly from 64 to 48. We are also taking steps to increase the amount of outside advertising carried in the magazine, which helps

We want Widening Horizons to provide great value for money for the people of the borough. You can help us to achieve that by spending a couple of minutes filling in the survey on the opposite page and letting us know what you would like to see in future editions. Thank you for your time.

North Tyneside, like all other councils, has a duty to engage with its residents and let you know what it is doing on your behalf. One cost-effective way of doing that is to produce a residents’ magazine at various times through the year. In many cases, by putting articles or information in the magazine, we can save the cost of producing individual leaflets and posters or paying for adverts. Promoting the council’s facilities, such as our swimming pools and leisure centres, can help to generate more income which, in turn, benefits the taxpayer.

widening horizons • October 2010

REVIEW OF SERVICES

Reader survey As part of our plans to give Widening Horizons a new look, we are keen to find out what you would like to see in future editions. Please look at the list and tick as many – or as few – of the boxes as you want. If there’s an article or issue we should include in the magazine but it hasn’t been mentioned on the list, let us know.

Thank you

Pop the completed form in an envelope and send it to:

What information would you like to see in future editions?

Roads and pavements Town centres

What’s on in the borough

Environment

Things to do for children and young people

Crime prevention

Arts and leisure centres

Trading standards

Parks and beaches

Health

Adult social care

Schools and education

Libraries

s n o z i r o h

Business start-ups

Recycling and waste collection

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Widening Horizons Survey North Tyneside Council Marketing & Communications (3rd floor right) Quadrant The Silverlink North Cobalt Business Park North Tyneside NE27 0BY

Local groups and voluntary organisations

Regeneration

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Policy items

Dates of council meetings

Councillors contact details

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Learning Trust for NorthTyneside Learning in North Tyneside was transformed at the start of September as a number of schools came together to form one of the first borough-wide learning trusts in the country.

The North Tyneside Learning Trust enables member schools to work with each other and with partners from the public and private sector in a formalised partnership, to enhance learning opportunities for pupils. Local schools have always worked closely with each other and with partners to improve the life chances of our young people. The North Tyneside Learning Trust moves that partnership working even further forward. As part of the new arrangements, 23 schools formally became foundation

schools from September 3, and are now known as trust schools.

The 23 are joined in the learning trust by North Tyneside’s 13 Roman Catholic and Church of England voluntary-aided schools, which are represented by their diocesan trustees. External partners from the public and private sector – including local universities, large employers and the council – will work with the 36 schools as well as be represented on the boards of governors of the 23 trust schools. David Baldwin, head of Churchill Community College, one of the new trust schools, said:“This is an extremely exciting time for schools in North Tyneside and we look forward to the trust being a real force for school improvement over the coming years.” For more information and a full list of participating schools, visit www.ntlearningtrust.org

Event brings partners together This year’s State of the Area event, hosted by the council in October, will bring together key partners to consider how their organisations can contribute to community budgets.

Focusing on North Tyneside Strategic Partnership’s Sustainable Community Strategy, participants will be asked to come up with practical ideas their organisations can put in place quickly to help the borough achieve more with fewer resources. Councillors and business, education, health, faith and voluntary sector representatives will join NTSP members. Topics discussed on the day will include drugs and alcohol, health, an ageing population, climate change, employment and the economy. The next issue of Widening Horizons will include a summary of the event.

widening horizons • October 2010

Dancing girls are back in town! They may be 100 years old but a careful makeover has ensured two dancers were looking their best when they returned to Whitley Bay. For the copper figures, known as the Dancing Girls, were cleaned and restored by a specialist company before being lowered by crane onto the towers either side of the Spanish City Dome. Their return signalled a final stage of restoration work at the seafront landmark. The Dome has been restored to its original condition and fitted with a new flagpole while the exterior has been rendered and the brickwork is being painted using traditional techniques. The final phase of structural repairs included temporary improvements to the shopfronts and windows to enhance the appearance of the building.

Kier North Tyneside was awarded the contract to ensure the Dome is structurally sound and restored as close as possible to the original design. Elected mayor Linda Arkley said: “The Dome is at the centre of my commitment to deliver the regeneration of the Whitley Bay seafront. “That’s why reaching one of the last milestones in the repair and conservation of the Dome is so important.” As Widening Horizons went to press, the finishing touches were being put to a series of special events to mark the centenary of the Dome. As part of the celebrations, the public were being invited to tour the restored building from September 9 to 12 and view a special exhibition.

Plans for new road

The regeneration of Spanish City has taken a further step forward after plans for a new road scheme, creating a piazza, were given the green light. The council’s planning committee granted conditional approval for a new link road to the rear of the Dome.

This will replace the existing road on the seaward side of Spanish City – enabling it to be pedestrianised and creating a piazza where events can be staged. Meanwhile, the site of the former Coliseum building in York Road could be used for community facilities as part of a multi-million pound project. The proposals include a library, tourist information centre, health services and space for community activities.The joint service centre could also serve as a base for neighbourhood police officers. And a multi-use outdoor sports area has opened next to Whitley Park – providing a safe, enclosed area for ball games.

New card provides

EXTRA discounts For the past year, ease EXTRA has been providing young people in North Tyneside with fantastic discounts and easy access to services.

Anne Morrison (hypnotherapy), Maple Textiles, Shutterspeed, DFDS Seaways Ltd, Amanda Glen Unisex Hair Studio, Blue Reef Aquarium, O2 and Louise Aveyard Driving School.

And now residents aged 60 and over have the chance to benefit too, thanks to the launch of the ease EXTRA 60+ card.

Just like the existing ease card, ease EXTRA 60+ costs £3.50 for residents, or £5.50 for non-residents. However, if you have priority status, it’s free.

It offers discounted rates at the council’s sports and leisure facilities. And because it doubles as a library card too, you no longer need to carry separate cards.

The card will be available from October 1 at all the council’s leisure centres and Dudley, Killingworth and Longbenton libraries.

The card also provides a wide range of deals from local businesses including: The Cygnet Cafe, FE Maughan DIY, Avalon Hotel and Trojan Rooms,

During the Age Takes Centre Stage festival, there will be special ease EXTRA 60+ roadshows where anyone who signs up for the card receives a free insulated travel mug.

widening horizons • October 2010

They will be held between 11am and 4pm at the following locations:

●

The Lakeside Centre, Southgate, Killingworth – Monday, October 4. Hadrian Leisure Centre, St Peter’s Road,Wallsend – Friday, October 8. Waves,The Links,Whitley Bay – Tuesday, October 12. Tynemouth Pool, Beach Road, North Shields – Tuesday, October 26.

Age Takes Centre Stage – find out what’s on, and where, in our eight-page festival guide. Starts on page 27.

EXTRA 60+

Wallsend Parks Multi-million pound makeover for Wallsend Parks is set for a £7m facelift after the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded a confirmed grant of £2.45m towards its restoration and regeneration.

The council has also pledged £2.85m towards the project, which will restore the parks back to their original beauty while transforming the visitor experience. And the good news doesn’t end there. The HLF announced it was awarding £109,000 to the council so it can develop final specifications for Northumberland Park’s revitalisation, ahead of a £2.2m funding application. Both initiatives form part of the council’s Excellent Parks project, which aims to regenerate key parks across the borough. Those identified for improvement are Northumberland Park,Wallsend Parks, Killingworth Lake Park,Tynemouth Park and Churchill Playing Fields. The Wallsend Parks scheme also forms a key part of the regeneration of the town centre.

“With this investment, we will be able to revitalise Wallsend Parks and make sure it once again meets the needs of the local community.”

Wallsend Parks consists of Prince Road Arboretum, Richardson Dees Park and the Civic Hall grounds. The funding will be used to: ●

●

● ●

Extend the park lodge to provide office space for parks staff, Northumbria Police and the probation service. Restore historic features, including the bandstand, lake, Duffy Memorial Foundation, vinery wall and upper promenade at the Civic Hall. Improve sport and play facilities. Improve planting and maintenance.

Other grants will be sought to fund further proposed improvements within Wallsend Parks, which include community planting schemes, art features and nature projects. Burnside Business and Enterprise College students have already been awarded Heritage Lottery funding to research the history and natural heritage of the parks and create up to 15 interpretation boards across the three sites. The plans for Wallsend Parks were drawn up after extensive consultation with the local community, schools, park users and other groups.The main body of work will begin in January.

Blooming great: Staff and partners celebrate the approval of the £2.45m grant.

Elected mayor Linda Arkley said:“This is fantastic news. Wallsend Parks has been enjoyed by residents for generations but has gradually fallen into decline over the years.

Chris turns

back the clock Past and present came together when a historic swim was recreated at the opening of Hadrian Leisure Centre in St Peter’s Road,Wallsend.

Almost 100 years ago, Olympic swimmer Jack Hatfield, from Middlesbrough, opened the original Wallsend pool by swimming 300 yards in 3 minutes and 40 seconds. As part of the latest opening ceremony, Olympic swimmer Chris Cook (pictured below) was set the challenge of beating Jack’s time. And it was Jack’s son, Peter, who sounded the horn for Chris to begin his attempt.

Cheered on by pupils from Western Primary School in Wallsend, Chris completed the swim in an impressive 3 minutes and 7 seconds. Chris, who lives in Wallsend, said: “When I was asked to be part of the opening event I was over the moon. I love North Tyneside and to get involved in something on your doorstep is brilliant.

“Jack Hatfield was obviously before my time but his achievements back in that day were huge.” Based on the site of Burnside Business and Enterprise College, the £9.7m Hadrian Leisure Centre features a new 25-metre six-lane swimming pool,

teaching pool and Contours fitness gym – open during the day and evening, seven days a week. A six-court sports hall, fitness rooms, dance and exercise studios, grass pitches, all-weather pitches and changing facilities are among the facilities already available to the public at evenings and weekends. Elected Mayor Linda Arkley cut the ribbon to formally open the centre with the help of Sophie Carlson, a pupil at Burnside Business and Enterprise College, who suggested the name. Mrs Arkley said:“I know many residents have fond memories of the former Wallsend baths.That’s why we made sure the opening helped celebrate the original opening ceremony. “The new facility really is a first class venue for Wallsend residents to enjoy. It’s also an important part of the revitalisation of Wallsend, which includes the North Bank of the Tyne project and the creation of a ‘learning village’.” Display boards, on show in the reception area, feature the full story of Jack Hatfield’s historic swim and memories of the original Wallsend pool. More than 4,000 people used the new centre in the first two weeks it was open.

Widening horizons • October 2010

Rising Sun

is your favourite beauty spot

The Rising Sun Country Park has a double reason to celebrate.

Not only was it awarded a Green Flag – the national standard for parks and open spaces, for a sixth successive year – but it has also been voted North Tyneside’s best beauty spot. The council picked 10 picturesque places in the borough and asked people to vote for their favourite as part of the Big Spring Clean environment campaign. A total of 632 people took part and all were entered into a prize draw to win tickets to a show at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, sponsored by the Evening Chronicle, or the Metro Radio Arena. The winners were: Zoe Seaman, of Wallsend;Tanja Mothersdale, of South Shields; Molly Goodwin and Kieron Fox, both of North Shields.

Westmoor Primary School in West Moor and the Riverside Holiday Club in North Shields were judged to have organised the best clean-ups and won £250 to spend on local environmental improvements. Pupils, their parents and staff from Westmoor Primary School cleaned a nearby public path, which ran through a wooded area between their school grounds and the public playing fields.

A group of 20 children from The Riverside Holiday Club were joined by staff and volunteers to litter pick the car park area. A big thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s campaign.

Double celebration: Staff at the Rising Sun (see below) were overjoyed to find out the country park had been voted the borough’s favourite beauty spot. The Rising Sun has also picked up its sixth Green Flag – the national standard for parks and green spaces. The 400-acre site has an organic farm, nature reserve, countryside centre, ponds, woodlands and extensive grassland areas.

B I G SPRIN G C LEAN

The Rising Sun Country Park came out on top with 103 votes. Located on Whitley Road, Benton, it is run by the Rising Sun Farm Trust in partnership with the council. St Mary’s Lighthouse was second with 82 votes and Tynemouth Priory and Castle was third with 75 votes. Meanwhile, community groups and schools organised 23 clean-up events during this year’s Big Spring Clean.

Why not make this space work for you? Reach more than 90,000 homes in North Tyneside by advertising your business in Widening Horizons. To advertise, please contact Martin on 0845 653 7102 or Andy on 0845 805 7987. You can also email: martin@pamedia-services.co.uk

horizwoidenning s

play it for laughs Hyacinth and Co There’s definitely something for everyone at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay this autumn. Children’s favourite Peppa Pig, folk legends Eliza Carthy and Norma Waterson, actress and singer Claire Sweeney and punk poet John Cooper Clarke are among those treading the boards in the coming weeks.

There are also week-long runs of old favourites Keeping Up Appearances and Bugsy Malone plus this year’s Tynemouth Gang Show in late November. Little ones are sure to love Peppa Pig’s Party – the stage version of the toprated TV show.The PLAYHOUSE is the local stop on a mammoth tour taking in 60 theatres across the UK. Meanwhile, Claire Sweeney steps into the shoes of Elaine Paige and Sarah Brightman when she takes over the lead role in Tell Me On A Sunday, which features a wonderful score and the chart-topping hit Take That Look Off Your Face. The last week of October sees Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced bouquet)

and her dysfunctional family take over the PLAYHOUSE for a brand new stage version of the hit TV show Keeping Up Appearances.

The production features Rachel Bell (Grange Hill, Dear John) as Hyacinth, Gareth Hale (Hale and Pace) as Onslow and Kim Hartman (‘Allo,‘Allo) as Elizabeth. Members of the Tynemouth Scout Association take to the stage in November for the Tynemouth Gang Show, which features a well-loved mix of sketches, comedy routines and popular songs. The show runs from Tuesday, November 23 to Saturday, November 27 and tickets cost £8 or £10. Full details are available at www.tynemouthscouts.org.uk/gangshow

Selected forthcoming events Friday, October 1 – Abba Mania (£17.50, £16.50 conc., £50 family) Saturday, October 2 – Rich Hall (£15)

Sunday, October 10 – Joe Longthorne (£22.50, £19.50) Family favourites: The cast of Keeping Up Appearances.

Monday, October 11 – Eliza Carthy and Norma Waterson with the Gift Band (£16.50, £15 conc.) Wednesday, October 13 and Thursday, October 14 – Peppa Pig’s Party (£10.50 to £14.50, £50 family) Saturday, October 16 – Tell Me On A Sunday (£25, £23 conc.)

Sunday, October 17 – Clive Baldwin’s Jolson Show (£15, £12.50 conc.)

Monday, October 18 – North Tyneside Music Service – Charity Concert (£5, available from local schools) Thursday, October 21 – One Night of Queen (£18, £16 conc., £50 family) Friday, October 22 – John Cooper Clarke (£15, £10 conc.)

Monday, October 25 to Saturday, October 30 – Keeping Up Appearances (£15 to £22.50)

Tuesday, November 2 to Saturday, November 6 – Bugsy Malone (£12, £8 child conc., £36 family)

Booking information

In person: Monday to Friday (10am to 4pm) and Saturday (10.30am to 2.30pm) Online: www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk Booking hotline: 0844 277 2771 Accessibility bookings: (0191) 251 5484 Group bookings: (0191) 260 6006 All information correct at time of going to print

What’s on

in NorthTyneside September 25

Widening Horizons 4 Sport 5k Family Fun Run – Rising Sun Sports Ground, Kings Road North,Wallsend. Join in a new fun run around the country park. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Entry fee is £5 per child and adults/carers take part for free. The run starts at 10am and every child receives a goodie bag. For further information, visit www.sportnorthtyneside.org.uk phone 643 7447 or email sports.development@northtyneside.gov.uk

Star Wars – Wallsend, North Shields and Whitley Bay. Members of a Star Wars costuming club will be taking to the streets, dressed as various characters from the classic film.They will visit Wallsend between 10 and 11am, North Shields between 1 and 2pm and Whitley Bay between 3 and 4pm.

October 10 Book Fair – Tynemouth Station. Browse through fact and fiction on all genres and subject matters. Up to 50 stalls, selling a wide range

Widening horizons • October 2010

of books to suit all tastes and pockets, from specialist leather-bound volumes to paperbacks, from local history to children's books. 10am to 4pm. Free. For more details, contact Ylana First on 257 2180.

Sports for All – Hadrian Leisure Centre,Wallsend. Various sporting taster sessions, including climbing wall, volleyball, trampolining and badminton. Part of the ‘time to get moving’

campaign promoting mental health

inclusiveness. 10am to 4pm. Free and open to people of all ages.

October 15 to 17 Tynemouth Surf Film Festival (part of Xperience Festival) – Tynemouth Priory Theatre.

Film screenings and special one-off attractions. For more information or to book tickets, visit

www.tynemouthsurffilmfest.com, call 643 7409 or email:

events@northtyneside.gov.uk

October 23 and 24 UKPSA North East Surf Open (part of Xperience Festival) – Tynemouth Longsands.

Surfers from around the world

compete for prize money and tour

points.This year will include various

competitions, including male and female adult opens, a junior competition and an under-16s boys event.

For more information, visit

www.xperience-festival.com, call 643 7409 or email:

events@northtyneside.gov.uk.

November 5 Fireworks Display – Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum.

Entry into the museum and viewing

area (car park) is free. Doors open at

4pm and the display will start at around 6.30pm, lasting for approximately 15

minutes.The museum café will be open. In the event of poor weather, the

display may be cancelled or rearranged. For more details, call 236 9347.

November 7 North Tyneside Fireworks Display – The Links,Whitley Bay.

The annual free spectacular includes fairground rides and refreshments.

Display starts at 7pm. In the event of

poor weather, the display will take place on the next available evening, weather permitting.

For more details, email

events@northtyneside.gov.uk or call 643 7409.

Please note: Details of events may be subject to change.

of Details Takes e er’s Ag e Octob t S ag Centre rt on l sta festiva 7. page 2

Toast the admiral on Trafalgar

Day – A small commemorative event will take place at

Collingwood Monument in Tynemouth on Thursday,

October 21 from 11.30am.The

toast will be held at noon – the

time of the first shot fired in the

Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805. For more details, visit:

www.collingwood2010.co.uk

Tell us about your Christmas event The next issue of Widening Horizons (published November 8) will feature our festive guide to events in North Tyneside. If you have a Christmas event taking place in the borough that you would like us to feature, please drop us a line. Due to our production deadlines, we’ll need the information by Friday, October 1. Send brief details of the event and your contact details so we can get in touch if we require further information. Please write to Pete Warne, Christmas Events, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant West, Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY or email pete.warne@northtyneside.gov.uk

Task group suggests improvements

The council managed to keep the borough’s main roads clear during the severe winter weather, a task group has found. And the cross-party group endorsed

the council’s approach of keeping large reserves of rock salt, which meant it

did not experience the same shortages as other local authorities. But members did make

recommendations about how things

Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for

Environment and chairman of the task

group, said:“Council staff worked hard

They included:

continued to be provided.

●

“However, we know residents

●

the Elected Mayor felt it was

●

things moving and ensure services

experienced problems, which is why important to see if any lessons could be learned.”

He said the group, which included

and supplying snow-clearing shovels

political parties, had made a number

for staff.

weather in the future.

in very difficult circumstances to keep

could be improved in the future –

including better provision of grit bins

how the council tackles severe

Making grit bins a standard size and colour.

Putting the location of all grit bins on the council’s website.

Retaining a stock of grit bins to

enable a quick response to urgent requests.

●

councillors from each of the main

●

of recommendations to improve

●

Asking councillors to identify

any additional sites for grit bins.

Providing snow-clearing shovels to staff.

Urging people to help neighbours who are unable to leave their

homes because of ice and snow. The council is responsible for clearing and gritting 240 miles of main roads and bus routes in the borough

although the A19 is the responsibility of the Highways Agency.

During extreme weather conditions,

the council goes beyond its statutory duty by also clearing and pre-salting

lower priority roads – but only when the main priority roads are clear.

Assistance will continue to be offered to businesses, enabling them to

continue trading. This is only when

resources allow and involves a charge.

widening horizons • October 2010

Potholes - your questions answered Major road repairs are being carried out across the borough as a long-term remedy to the potholes created during the heavy winter snow and ice. There has been a 75 per cent increase in the number of potholes reported to the council since the severe weather and more than 7,500 have already been repaired. Here are the answers to some of your commonly-asked questions. Why does North Tyneside have so many potholes? North Tyneside is not alone with having to deal with this problem.The heavy snowfall meant the predominately bitumen roads were affected by the severe freeze and thaw process – weakening the road surface and causing potholes to develop.These are in addition to those caused by continual wear and tear from traffic.

The borough’s busier roads and shopping centres are inspected monthly or three-monthly.The Highways Maintenance team will normally inspect potholes within a day of being reported. Our aim is to carry out repairs within 24 hours if they are considered an immediate danger to the public - and within 10 days otherwise. How are potholes repaired? In many cases, it is a simple localised repair – the loose material is removed and hot bituminous material placed into the hole and then compacted. Where there is a cluster of holes, the team will often dig out an area by

machine to form larger squares, which are then filled with new road resurfacing material. In the worst cases, we are either partially or fully resurfacing roads. How do I report a pothole? Either call the Highways Maintenance team on (0191) 643 6130 or email the details to highways.environment@ northtyneside.gov.uk You can find out about road and street works in your neighbourhood by visiting our website – select ‘parking, roads and transport’ on the home page and then click on ‘roadworks.’

What does the council do to monitor potholes? We have a Street Care team which carries out regular inspections of our roads and pavements. Part of their role is to identify potholes – a defect in the road that measures 300mm or more in any direction and 40mm or more in depth – and issuing orders for their repair. Members of the public and councillors also report potholes.

Road repairs: Council staff have repaired more than 7,500 potholes so far this year.

Above: Dr Derek Thomson, Northumbria Healthcareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical director. Right: Pam Niccol, who chose her specialist consultant following a recommendation.

Electoral Register It’s canvass time Your household should now have received a Voter Register Form, asking for information about who lives there.

Make sure your details are correct!

Information is printed on the reverse of the canvass form about the Full and Edited versions of the Register. If you do not want your details to appear on the Edited Register, put a tick in the “Edited Register” column on the front of the form – this information is requested each year. Use the telephone, internet, and text service where possible or return the form as soon as you can.

By law you must complete your registration If you do not return the form, you may be prevented from voting in any future election or referendum.

You may also have difficulty getting a mortgage, obtaining credit or opening a bank or building society account. During October, personal canvassers will call at households that have not responded to the form. The canvass runs approximately from the beginning of August until the end of November each year. It is a statutory duty of the Electoral Registration Officer to update the Electoral Register each year.

If you have not received your form, or for assistance completing it, contact the Electoral Services Office:

Tel: (0191) 643 2270 Email: elections@northtyneside.gov.uk

horizons widening

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Programme October 2010

“We are very proud that representatives of the Age Takes Centre Stage planning group were invited to the Queen’s Garden Party in July. It inspired us to invite you to come and join us at our own ‘royal garden party’ for the festival launch to celebrate Older People’s Day on Friday, October 1. The party marks the start of a fabulous month of special events and offers for people over 50, lasting right through October. Whether you want to surf the waves or the internet, get active or creative, make new friends or find new interests – we hope to see you soon!” David Charlton, Chair of the Age Takes Centre Stage Festival Planning Group

Age Takes Centre Stage is North Tyneside’s annual festival for people aged over 50. It is a joint project involving the Older People’s Forum, North Tyneside Council, Community Health Care Forum, Churches Working Together Wallsend and North Shields, Amongst Friends Friendship Centre,Age UK North Tyneside. any ard at c k c a rize eedb r our p lete a f Comp vent to ente win: o le festiva the chance t r draw fo kend el wee el, s n i T d ns Hot key an • A Tur at the Quee ber 3 for two from Decem Travel. ss er Skegne Chris Coop age h t St i to 6, w akes Centre T ge • An A r. p ham e

For more information, visit our website – www.agetakescentrestage.org.uk You can also call (0191) 280 8498 or email info@agetakescentrestage.org.uk

Events to enjoy through October Visit Segedunum Roman Fort,

Baths and Museum and explore

your local history for £1 with a copy of this programme (236 9347).

Every Monday

Winter Warmth Mondays –

get a benefits check and special Winter Warmth pack from Age UK North Tyneside. Free but call for an

appointment at the Bradbury Centre,

Saville Street, North Shields (280 8484). Free yourself from unwanted

telephone calls and unsolicited letters from companies. Register with the

Get into IT – over 50 on the

People’s Network. Free introductions but please book.

John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley (643 2030) 10 to 11am, Mondays (October 4, 11, 18, 25 plus Thursday, October 7 and Wednesday, October 27).

Oxford Centre, Longbenton (643

2750) 10 to 11am,Thursdays (October

7 and 28 plus Wednesday, October 13). Forest Hall Library (643 2085) 10 to 11am,Tuesdays (October 12 and 26).

White Swan Centre, Killingworth (643 2040) 11am to noon,Wednesdays (October 13 and 27).

telephone and mail preference service at Wallsend Library, from 9.30am to 5pm. Free (643 2075).

Every Tuesday

Board game days – 10am to 4pm

at Howdon Library. Free (643 2070).

Every Thursday

Archery – Sessions for all abilities, led by a qualified instructor. 9.30 to

10.30am and 11am to noon at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. £2.50 booking essential (643 7439).

Free gym – Howdon Community

Centre, 9am to 6.30pm. Please book

an induction if it’s your first visit (200 7344).

Café special – Tea or coffee with a scone for £1.20 at Howdon

Community Centre (200 7344).

widening horizons • October 2010

Outings – organised by the Amongst Friends Friendship Centres for Age Takes Centre Stage, with coaches supplied by Chris Cooper Travel. Thursday, October 7 – The Borders, including Jedburgh and Kelso. Home via Coldstream and a short stop at Seahouses. Thursday, October 14 – Scarborough, with coffee stop at Guisborough. Thursday, October 21 – Harrogate, with coffee stop at Knaresborough. Thursday, October 28 - Leeds. The cost is £11.50 per person per outing. Coaches pick up at Killingworth, West Allotment, Shiremoor,Whitley Bay, Cullercoats, North Shields, Wallsend and Central Station. Phone Chris Cooper Travel to check availability – (0191) 421 1894. Once booked, cheques can be sent to Chris Cooper Travel, 8 Spoor Street, Dunston,Tyne & Wear NE11 9BD.

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Diary Friday, October 1st

Celebrate Older People’s Day and the 2010 festival launch at Howdon Community Centre, Denbigh Avenue. Enjoy our Royal Garden Party theme, try the quiz or enter our Royal Lookalike Competition, plus entertainment, displays and taster sessions from 10.30am to 3pm, with the official launch at 11am. Free (280 8498).

Friday, October 1st to Friday, October 8th

Mini-golf tournament – whether you’re a complete beginner or a golf professional, come along to be in with a chance of winning the Age Takes Centre Stage Golf trophy! The challenge is open all week at Whitley Bay Mini Golf on The Links (9am to 3pm).. Only one entry per person. Free (643 7439).

Monday 4th

Downloading audio books – a user’s guide to the library’s new service. 10am at Central Library, North Shields. Free but please book (643 5270). Sing-Song lunch – three courses and entertainment from 11.45am at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. £2.50 – please book by September 24 (216 1005). Silver surfers – try surfing with an expert instructor, all equipment provided. Just bring your swimwear and a towel. 1 to 3pm on Longsands, Tynemouth. £10 per session. Please book with Hurley Tynemouth (257 5032).

Book bingo – at the White Swan Centre, 2 to 3pm. Free (643 2040). Hula hooping – it’s fun and good exercise too! 4 to 5pm at YMCA, Church Way, North Shields. £3, call YMCA to book (257 5434).

Tuesday 5th Movie bingo & refreshments – from 10am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free (643 2030). Latin fusion – bring a partner to learn a fusion of latin dance styles – merengue, bachata, salsa, cha cha, rumba. 10 to 11am for four Tuesdays at the Oxford Centre, Longbenton. Free, please book (643 7439). Croquet for beginners – learn to play with help from members of Tynemouth Golf & Croquet Club. 10am to noon at Tynemouth Cricket Club, Preston Avenue, North Shields. Free but please book (251 1067, evenings). Tea dance with Alzheimer's Society – join us for a free social afternoon of entertainment and dancing for people with dementia and their carers, from 1.30pm at North Shields Methodist Church, Hawkey’s Lane. Dancing is optional. Free but please book your place by calling Lisa Mollett on 274 2727 or email: lisa.mollett@alzheimers.org.uk.

Festival Programme 2010

Wednesday 6th

Write your own CV – 10am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free but please book (643 2030). Dr Bike and cycle safety – the Dr Bike session aims to get your bike back on the road! Even if your bike is in top condition, pop along for information on cycle safety. 10am to noon at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre. Free (643 7439). Victorian gardens – an illustrated talk by Miss J.Tindall at Cullercoats Men's Club, 10.30am at Cullercoats Methodist Church, Broadway, £1 (252 3807). Healthy walk and organic gardening taster – setting off at noon from the Oxford Centre, Longbenton. Free (643 2750). Pie & Pea lunch with quiz – with the Howdon Home League. 12.30pm at St Paul’s Centre,Willington Quay. Tickets £2 from Bradbury Centre, North Shields (289 1184). Quiz – 2pm at White Swan Centre, Killingworth. Free (643 2040). Bounce! – experience rebound therapy and/or trampolining. Rebound therapy is the therapeutic use of the trampoline with individual attention from a rebound therapist. Or try trampolining in a gentle, safe, and fun environment! 1.30 to 2.30pm at The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields. £2 – booking essential (643 7439).

Thursday 7th Living with dementia: your questions answered – free, 10am to 2pm at the Saville Exchange, North Shields. All welcome – meet a range of organisations and learn about all aspects of living with dementia. Light refreshments available. For further information, contact Lisa Mollett from Alzheimer’s Society on 274 2727 or email: lisa.mollett@alzheimers.org.uk. Make your own movies – with the Coast Video Club. Learn how to edit your own videos, add music and your own voiceover. Drop in between 10am and 3pm at the Bradbury Centre, North Shields. Free (257 6818). Coffee morning and knit-in – enjoy refreshments and admire the knitting – or bring your needles and join in, from 10am to noon at Age UK’s Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Free (293 9141). Local history talk & coffee morning – 10.30am at Monkseaton Library. Free (643 2072). Our Folk singalong – share a folk song or sit back and enjoy the music and refreshments with North Tyneside Disability Forum, from 1 to 3pm at the Shiremoor Centre, Earsdon Road. Free (200 8570). Cube, collage, card – three interesting things to do with your digital photos. 1.30 to 4pm at Age UK North Tyneside. Free but booking essential (280 8484). Games afternoon for men – snooker, darts and board games, from 1 to 3pm in the Games Room at Age UK’s Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Free (293 9141).

Friday 8th

Cycle ride at the Rising Sun – a two-hour ride led by qualified bike leaders, suitable for all abilities. Meet at

the Countryside Centre at 10am. If you don’t own a cycle, you can hire a bike and helmet free of charge. Free (643 7439). Coffee morning and internet taster – Whitley Bay Library, 10 to 11am, free but please book (200 8500). Coffee morning and quiz – plus display on tracing your family tree. 10.30am at Battle Hill Library, Coastway Shopping Forum. (643 2255). Older People’s Forum coffee morning – find out about the forum, from 10.30 to 11.30am at Wallsend Library. Free (268 4889). Nordic walking at the Rising Sun – try an accessible activity that can be enjoyed by people of all fitness levels. Led by a qualified instructor. Meet by the Countryside Centre at 1pm. Free but please book (07824 813054). Remember when? – try our quiz, 10am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free (643 2030). Jazz night – New Orleans-style band

widening horizons • October 2010

and jacket potato supper with Great Lime Road Community Group, 7 to 10pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, 79 Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £7. Please book (268 4889).

Saturday 9th

Card making – at the White Swan Centre, Killingworth. Free but please book (643 2040).

Monday 11th

Early morning tai chi – gentle exercise to start the day. 7.15am at YMCA, Church Way, North Shields. Free. Call YMCA to book (257 5434). Coffee morning – at the Oxford Centre, Longbenton, from 11am. Free (643 2750). Wideopen Now & Then – see the exhibition about society over the last 60 years,Wideopen Library until Saturday. Free (200 7900). Norma Waterson and Eliza Carthy with The Gift Band – 7.30pm at the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay. For ticket prices, see page 19.

GUIDE to the council

North Tyneside Council has an Elected Mayor and cabinet, who have the authority to take important decisions about council policy and services.

Miller (Adult Social Care), Cllr Nigel

address is Quadrant, Silverlink

Cllr Ed Hodson (Environment).

Tyneside, NE27 0BY.

The Chairman of the Council is

Full details of councillors’ surgeries

The Elected Mayor is Mrs Linda Arkley

Cllr Margaret Finlay (see article on

on the council website –

and her cabinet consists of Cllr Judith Wallace (Deputy Mayor and cabinet

Clothier (Regulatory Services) and

Cllr Duncan McLellan and his deputy is page 34).

North,Cobalt Business Park, North

and their email addresses are available www.northtyneside.gov.uk

member for Finance), Cllr Glynis Barrie

North Tyneside has 60 councillors

A by-election will be held on

McIntyre (Community Engagement),

to contact your local councillor, see

the Battle Hill ward.

(Community Services), Cllr Pam

Cllr John Goodfellow (Housing and

Emergency Planning), Cllr David Lilly

(Children and Young People), Cllr Leslie

covering 20 wards – for details of how overleaf. Some councillors prefer to

have their correspondence sent to the council HQ at Quadrant – the full

Services of Remembrance

Civic Services of Remembrance will be held on Sunday, November 14 at the following locations.

and head towards the War memorial, Hawkey’s Lane, where the service will start at 10.55am.

Wallsend – The procession will set off from Richardson Street, opposite the Town Hall, at 10.35am – travelling down High Street East, across the Burn Bridge to Archer Street and the Burn Closes War Memorial, where the service will begin at 11am.

Longbenton – The procession will start at 10.30am from the Forest Hall Ex-Servicemen’s Institute, travelling along Station Road to St Bartholomew’s Church, Benton.The service at the War Memorial starts at 11am and will be followed by a church service.

North Shields – The parade will leave Tyne Met College at 10.35am

September 30 to fill a vacant seat in

Park Avenue to the War Memorial at The Links, where the service will start at 2.55pm.

Remembrance Day Killingworth – A civic service and two minutes silence will be held at the Jig Saw Memorial,White Swan Centre, at 11am on Thursday, November 11.

Whitley Bay – The parade will leave the Royal British Legion,Victoria Terrace, at 2.25pm and march along

GUIDE to councillors 2010/11

Battle Hill

By-election September 30

Chris Croft 12, Stamfordham Close Rodchester Park Wallsend NE28 8ER

Cullercoats

Dave McGarr Quadrant 643 5343 07854 537 665

Lawrence Goveas MBE 41, Hatherton Ave Cullercoats NE30 3LG 252 9128

Shirley Mortimer 46 Kirkstone Ave North Shields NE30 3BD 253 3071

Liberal Democrat

Labour

Conservative

Leslie Birkenfield 6, Eastwood Court Midhurst Rd Benton NE12 9NZ 266 1968

Stuart Hill 14, Park Drive Newcastle NE12 9JP 266 3840 07974 960 027

David Charlton Quadrant 250 2484

John Hunter 98,Tynemouth Rd Wallsend NE28 0LQ 263 6169

Maureen Madden 103 Park Rd Wallsend NE28 7LP 263 5317

Conservative

Labour

Killingworth

Labour

Ray Glindon 2, Allendale Ave Wallsend NE28 9NA 263 7517 07968 229 661

Jim Allan 11, Bannockburn Killingworth NE12 6QJ 07967 140 961

Anne Arkle 68, Kirkwood Burradon NE23 7PQ 268 9787

Nigel Clothier 17, Alderley Drive Killingworth NE12 6FS 200 8142

Norma Peggs Quadrant 268 8952

Linda Darke 152 West Farm Ave Longbenton NE12 8RX 270 9279

Labour

Conservative

Longbenton

Labour

David Corkey 7, Lovaine Ave North Shields NE29 0BX 07714 099 668

John Stirling 39, Landsdowne Tce West North Shields NE29 0RZ 257 6188 07968 250 896

Amanda Normand Quadrant 07855 461 677

Kevin Conroy 21,Tenbury Cres Longbenton NE12 8BY 200 7411

Eddie Darke 152 West Farm Ave Longbenton NE12 8RX 270 9279

Joan Walker 28, Greenhaugh West Moor NE12 7WA 07967 246 540

Labour

Collingwood

Labour

Julia Macaulay 41, King Edward Rd Tynemouth NE30 2RW 296 3289

Barbara Stevens Quadrant 259 6057

Steve Cox 21, Burwood Road North Shields NE29 8BX 258 5843

Conservative

Labour

Benton

John Goodfellow 15, Glebe Villas Forest Hall NE12 7PS 200 8403

Conservative

Camperdown

Chirton

Howdon

Kenneth Barrie 8, Campville North Shields NE29 0NR 257 5170 07855 506 221

Monkseaton North Labour

Labour

Bill Prendergast 4,Woodburn Way Whitley Bay NE26 3DX 252 6182

Joan Bell 8,Westfield Ave Whitley Bay NE25 8NW 200 8686

Les Miller Quadrant 259 2790 07929 626 204

Conservative

Monkseaton South

Tynemouth

The Mayor Linda Arkley Deputy Mayor Cllr Judith Wallace

Ken Mewett Quadrant 252 5888

Conservative

George Partis 49, Athol Grds West Monkseaton NE25 9DN 253 0883

Ian Grayson 6, Ivanhoe Whitley Bay NE25 9AW 291 4087

Northumberland Conservative

David Ord Quadrant 200 7082

Graeme Brett Quadrant 643 5344

Liberal Democrat

Preston

Labour

Ken Jordan 19, Hastings Drive Tynemouth NE30 2LN 257 0862 07891 848 597

David Lilly 15, Fairfield Drive Cullercoats NE30 3AF 289 5015

Conservative

Valley

Marian Huscroft 104 Kings Rd North Wallsend NE28 9JQ 200 7200

Carole Gambling Quadrant 200 1418

Tommy Mulvenna 53, Benton Rd West Allotment NE27 0EP 266 6212

Liberal Democrat

Labour

Wallsend

Sarah Day Quadrant 07854 469 895

Labour

Chairman of the Council Cllr Duncan McLellan Deputy Chairman Cllr Margaret Finlay

Brian Burdis Quadrant 200 5354

Leader of the Conservative group Cllr Michael McIntyre

Labour

Deputy leader Cllr Lawrence Goveas Leader of the Labour group Cllr Jim Allan

David Sarin 12, Hawthorn Grds North Shields NE29 9BY 07891 522 991

Glynis Barrie 8, Campville North Shields NE29 0NR 07779 997 413

Conservative

Riverside

Norma Redfearn Quadrant

Frank Lott 112 Dolphin Quay Clive St North Shields NE29 6HJ 07974 568 197

Labour

Kate Osborne Quadrant 643 5344 07854 537 672

Nigel Huscroft 146 St Peter’s Rd Wallsend NE28 7HH 263 8019 07968 507 765

Michael Huscroft 104 Kings Rd North Wallsend NE28 9JQ 200 7200 07966 486 579

Labour

Liberal Democrat

Weetslade

Margaret Finlay 69 Laburnum Ave Wallsend NE28 8HG 200 6543

Liberal Democrat

Leader of the Liberal Democrat group Cllr Nigel Huscroft

Bruce Pickard Quadrant 200 8514

Muriel Green Quadrant 253 3761

Duncan McLellan 49, Melness Rd Hazlerigg NE13 7BJ 236 6293

Alex Cowie Quadrant 07854 537 674

Labour

Conservative

Whitley Bay

Labour

Ed Hodson 76, Monkseaton Drive Whitley Bay NE26 3DG 252 4513

Judith Wallace 91,Village Crt Whitley Bay NE26 3QB 253 7169

Pam McIntyre 58, Holywell Ave Whitley Bay NE26 3AD 253 7672

Alison Austin 3,Ventnor Grds Whitley Bay NE26 1QB 200 1424

Michael McIntyre 58, Holywell Ave Whitley Bay NE26 3AD 253 7672

Pamela Brooks Quadrant 643 5343 07974 391 134

Conservative

Labour

St. Mary’s

Deputy leader Cllr Norma Redfearn

Deputy leader Cllr David Ord

volunteers Chairman honours The Chairman of the Council has honoured volunteers working in the borough. Cllr Duncan McLellan, who represents Weetslade ward, paid tribute to more than 50 volunteers at the Chairman’s Commendation Awards evening. The awards, which celebrate the essential role played by volunteers in the borough, have been staged since 2003. “I can’t think of a better way to start my year as chairman than by honouring those who have taken time out to help people less fortunate than themselves,” he said. Cllr McLellan has nominated St Oswald’s Hospice in Newcastle as his chosen charity during his year in office.

“They help a great number of families across the region, including residents of North Tyneside.They cared for my daughter-in-law some years ago, so I know first-hand the tremendously important work they do.” In addition to raising money for charity, the chairman and the deputy chairman, Cllr Margaret Finlay, also carry out various civic and ceremonial duties. These include presiding over meetings of the council, promoting the council, overseeing town twinning matters and acting as a focal point for the community. To contact the Chairman of the Council, write to the Chairman’s Office, Quadrant, Cobalt Business Park, The Silverlink North, North Tyneside, NE27 0BY or phone (0191) 643 5347.

“St Oswald’s is a hospice very close to my heart and I’m delighted to be giving them my support over the coming 12 months.

Area forums

The council has set up four area forums to increase the involvement of local people and communities in its work. They provide an opportunity for people to discuss issues and influence the way council services are provided in their area. The next round of meetings will be held in December. All will start at 5.30 (refreshments) and run from 6 to 8pm. Wallsend – December 1 (Civic Hall); North West – December 7 (Lakeside Centre, Killingworth); Whitley Bay – December 8 (Livingstone Hall, beside the Baptist Church); North Shields – December 16 (Saville Exchange). For more information about your area forum, visit the council website – click on ‘council and democracy’ then ‘area forums’. For general inquiries, phone (0191) 643 2828 or email: areaforum@northtyneside.gov.uk

New role: Cllr McLellan, the Chairman of the Council, with his consort, Judy.

widening horizons • October 2010

Age Takes Centre Stage Festival Programme 2010

Amongst Friends walk in Northumberland – Warkworth and Amble. Meet at 9.30am at Cullercoats Methodist Church car park. Bring a packed lunch and stout shoes. Car share available. Free (237 3796). Wideopen Now & Then – meet the Busy Hands Craft Group and join the coffee morning, from 10am. Free (200 7900). Games morning for women – snooker, darts and board games. 10am to noon in the Games Room at Age UK’s Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Free (293 9141). Beach to beach walk – two-hour guided walk along the scenic coast of Tynemouth. Beginning at Tynemouth Priory at 10am, the walk will finish at Crusoe’s Café on the Longsands. Led by the council’s sports development team. Free (643 7439). Caribbean day – with non-alcoholic cocktails on arrival and entertainment from Holly Wood. 1.30pm at St John Ambulance Day Centre, Lesbury Ave, Shiremoor. Free but please book (251 4316).

Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. May involve short bus ride (216 1005). Beetle drive – from 10am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free (643 2030). Café church – with the Howdon Home League, drop in from11am to 2.30pm at St Paul’s Centre, Willington Quay. Free, refreshments on sale (289 1184). Wonderful Wansbeck – an illustrated talk plus cream tea with Amongst Friends, 2pm at Cullercoats Methodist Church Hall, Broadway. £1 (237 3796). More delicious desserts – cookery demonstration with Marjorie Goodchild (desserts raffled at the end). 2pm at Holy Saviour's Parish Hall, Manor Road,Tynemouth. Hosted by HoHo, includes hearing loop and live subtitles. £1, booking essential (252 3807). We’ll meet again – an afternoon of fun and laughter with a good singalong, nostalgic quiz and refreshments. 2pm at YMCA, Church Way, North Shields. £2.To book - 257 5434.

Wednesday 13th

Thursday 14th

Tuesday 12th

Badminton for all – join a friendly group of social players – beginners and experienced players welcome. Rackets, shuttles and help provided. 9.30am at The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields. Free (07725 413877). Walk with friends – a gentle 2 to 3 mile walk starting at 9.30am from West

Weblogs for beginners – look at good examples on the internet and find out how to create your own. 1.30 to 4pm at Age UK North Tyneside. Free but booking essential. (280 8484). Afternoon tea – join the Alzheimer's Society and Age UK North Tyneside for a relaxed and informal afternoon for people with dementia and their carers. From 2.30 to 4.30pm in Jarrett’s Coffee Shop at the Bradbury Centre, Saville Street West, North Shields. Free light refreshments plus reminiscence quizzes and teasers plus games on the Nintendo Wii. Free, please book by calling Lisa Mollett on (0191) 274 2727 or email: lisa.mollett@alzheimers.org.uk. Zumba – fun dance session including salsa, bellydancing, bollywood etc. No need for a partner. 5.15 to 6pm at YMCA, Church Way, North Shields. £3. Call YMCA to book (257 5434).

Downloading audio books – see Monday 4th for details. Ten Pin bowling challenge – hosted by Amongst Friends. 11am at the XS Superbowl,Whitley Road, Benton. Join in as an individual or bring a team of four along. £3.50 for two games and tea/coffee (252 4967).

Friday 15th

Cycle ride at the Rising Sun – see Friday 8th for details.

Travel by camera – a show by

Whitley Bay Photographic Society of digitally produced audio-visual

sequences with music and words, on a variety of landscapes. 2 to 3pm at the Club Room, 3 Waverley Avenue,

Monkseaton. Free but booking essential (252 4911).

Life in the 1930s, 40s and 50s –

local author Andrew Clark recalls the days of poss-tubs, outside toilets and

knitted swimsuits in a humorous talk on life in the North East. 2pm at Wallsend Library. Free but please book (643 2075).

Saturday 16th

Bowl along! – try carpet bowls and

new age bowls at the Oxford Centre,

Longbenton, from 10am to noon. Free (643 2750).

Coffee morning – with St John’s

Senior Citizens, from 10.30am at St

John’s Church Hall, Canterbury Way,

Wideopen. £1 includes refreshments (236 7270).

Monday 18th to Wednesday 20th

Join Age Takes to the Sea 2010 and sail away to Haarlem from just £84 per person! Sailing from North Shields to Holland at 5pm on Monday 18th October, arriving back at North Shields 9.30am Wednesday 20th October. The price of £84 per person includes: • Two nights on board ship, with a lower berth, outside, en-suite cabin, based on two sharing (Single cabins from £107 pp) • Buffet breakfasts each way on board ship • Live on board entertainment • Coach transfer to Haarlem, with five hours to explore the maze of narrow streets and canals, with lots of pretty medieval houses, museums and places of interest to discover. To book, visit www.dfds.co.uk/age or telephone 0871 882 0887 and quote “Age Takes Centre Stage”. Offer terms and conditions: Subject to availability. Credit card & telephone booking fees apply. Visit www.dfds.co.uk/terms for full details.

Making Midlife Moves at Segedunum – if you are about to retire or newlyretired, come and find out about how to make it work for you. With areas devoted to

money & work, healthy living, planning ahead,

short talks and activities

through the day and expert

help on hand. 11am to 3pm,

includes free entry to Segedunum.

Free but ring to reserve your copy of ‘The Retirement Book’ (280 8484).

widening horizons • October 2010

Monday 18th Coffee morning at Forest Hall Library – 11am. Free (643 2085). Silver surfers – see Monday 4th for details. Movie bingo – at the White Swan Centre, Killingworth, 2pm. Free (643 2040). Join the evening eaters – for a sociable early evening meal at Casa Antonio, Front Street, Benton. Make new friends and try a new place. Please book by 11th October (280 8484).

Tuesday 19th Wallsend Pensioners’ Association social afternoon – tea dancing, bingo, raffle and refreshments, 1 to 4pm at Wallsend Memorial Hall, Station Road. £3 (262 8761). Celebrate the Harvest of the Sea – open day at North Shields Fishermen’s Mission with refreshments and displays, from 10am to 4pm at their new premises on the first floor of 47-49 Fish Quay (next to the Low Light Lighthouse). Free (257 1316). Cafe Re Special – featuring jazz singer Brenda Sokell, plus time to explore issues of faith and enjoy great company, tea, coffee and cake! 2 to 3.30pm, Oxford Street Methodist Church,Whitley Bay. Free (257 0320).

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Programme 2010

Beetle Drive – with pie and pea supper. From 7 to 10pm at West Moor Methodist Church Hall, Great Lime Road, Forest Hall. £4. Please book (268 4889). John Cooper Clarke – the legendary punk poet is now in his sixties. Support from Kate Fox's Hyperlexic and some of the region's best stand-up poets. 7.30pm at PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay. For ticket prices, see page 19.

Wednesday 20th Yoga & relaxation with Age UK – taster session at Springfield Community Centre, Forest Hall. 1 to 2pm. Free (293 9141). Games afternoon – play traditional games with the Howdon Home League, 1.30pm at St Paul’s Centre,Willington Quay. Free (289 1184). North East quiz and tourism talk – 2pm at Whitley Bay Library, Park Road. Free (200 8500). Bounce! – see Wednesday 6th for details.

Thursday 21st

Coffee morning – 10.30am to 12.30 at North Shields Salvation Army Hall, Howard Street (easy access door on back lane). Refreshments £1 (257 6767). Help Yourself to Health Day – have a go at zumba, boxercise, new age kurling and healthy eating. Cheer the final of the Age UK North Tyneside New Age Bowls tournament and after lunch join a tea dance with singer Natalie Dean - the voice of ‘Stars in their Eyes’. 10am to 3pm at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. Free but booking essential (643 7447). Life after 60 – join the Community Health Care Forum and friends from Cloud Nine’s Sixties Group for an hour of healthy entertainment – poetry, sketches, line-dancing and mime. 12.30pm at the Linskill Centre, North Shields. Free (295 4233).

Afternoon of Entertainment –

with singer and comedian Ken Daniels.

Saturday 23rd

Killingworth.Tickets £1, including light

Collingwood, our Northumbrian naval hero – talk by Prof John Derry at Segedunum Roman Fort,Wallsend. 10.30am. £1 (236 9347).

reception (268 4739).

Monday 25th

2pm at the White Swan Centre, refreshments, from White Swan

Afternoon Concert at the Y – Brenda Sokell sings songs by Cole

Porter, Irving Berlin and Ella Fitzgerald. 2 to 4pm at YMCA, Church Way,

North Shields.Tickets £4 (257 5434).

Friday 22nd

Cycle ride at the Rising Sun – see Friday 8th for details.

Nordic walking at the Rising Sun Country Park – see Friday 8th for details.

Older People’s Forum coffee

morning – find out about the forum. 10.30 to 11.30am at Central Library, North Shields. Free (268 4889).

Remember when? – quiz about

Dudley’s ‘Good Old Days’. 10 to 11am

at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free (643 2030).

Grandparents & grandchildren fun session – from 10.30 to 11.30am at Central Library, North Shields. Free (643 5270) Coffee morning – White Swan Centre, Killingworth 11am. Free (643 2040).

Tuesday 26th

Book bingo & coffee morning – 10am at the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley. Free (643 2030). Art in Cullercoats – a one-hour guided walk, exploring its history, works of art and famous buildings. Led by tourism development officer Jonathan Barrand. Meet 2pm at Cullercoats Watch House, returning for tea afterwards. Free but booking essential (643 7420) or email: jonathan.barrand@northtyneside.gov.uk

Age Takes Centre Stage

Festival Programme 2010

Fire safety in the home - a talk by the Fire Service. 1.30pm at St Paul’s Centre,Willington Quay. (289 1184).

Thursday 28th

Cloud Nine Theatre Sixties Group present ‘Playtime - a spirited comedy’ A new full-length play full of humour and surprises from North Tyneside's older people's drama group, written by Peter Mortimer with the cast, and directed by Annie Orwin.Wednesday 27th Friday 29th (7pm); Saturday 30th (2pm) at Saville Exchange, North Shields.Tickets £7 (£5 concessions and 50+) 643 7093.

Wednesday 27th

Indoor climbing – a climbing wall session for complete beginners. 9.30 to 11am at Hadrian Leisure Centre, St Peter’s Rd,Wallsend. £3. Booking essential (643 7439). Woodland walk – from Swalwell to Rowlands Gill with the Fit as a Fiddle Strolling Group. Meet at Eldon Square bus stand J at 10.15am to catch the No. 45 bus. Free (280 8484). Join in the Collage Challenge on this stroll if you like. Collect items on the journey and after the stroll create a collage on a Halloween theme. To take part, please reserve a frame by phoning the Bradbury Centre (280 8484) by October 25th. Healthy walk & organic gardening taster – setting off at noon from the Oxford Centre, Longbenton. Free (643 2750).

Hula hooping – a fun and effective core workout. 9.30 to 11am at the Hadrian Leisure Centre, St Peter’s Rd,Wallsend. £2.50. (643 7439). Live at Home concert – with entertainment from the Elderley Brothers at 1.30pm at North Shields Methodist Church Hall, Hawkey’s Lane. Free. Refreshments £1 (272 8368). Halloween friendship afternoon – enjoy line dancing, pool, table tennis and good company (in costume if you like), from 1.30pm at West Moor Community Centre, Benton Lane. £2. (216 1005). Art at the Y – try your hand at watercolours, charcoal, or pastels – all abilities welcome at this taster session. 1.30pm at YMCA, Church Way, North Shields. Free (257 5434). Quiz – John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley, 2pm. Free (643 2030). Celebrating Wallsend Boys’ Club – discover the history of the club and its place in the history of the town. Bring along your memorabilia or photos. 7pm at Wallsend Boys Club, Station Road. Free (262 3051).

Friday 29th

Druridge Bay cycle ride – meet at the Rising Sun Countryside Centre at 9:30am to leave at 10am (return approx 4pm) Transport and bikes provided to all riders. £3. Please book (643 7439).

widening horizons • October 2010

Knit, natter & sew – bring your crafts in to work on. Central Library, North Shields. 10am to noon. Free (643 5270). Bowling for all – try this lighter version of bowls that can be played on any floor and with any level of mobility. 2 to 4pm at Age UK’s Whitley Bay Centre, Park Road. Free (293 9141). Behind the scenes at the Central Library, North Shields – a guided tour at 2pm. Free. Please book (643 5270).

Saturday 30th

Bowl Along! – see Saturday 16th for details. Halloween tea dance – come sequence dancing with the Fit as a Fiddle Tea Dancers. 1.30 to 4pm at Cullercoats Community Centre, Belle Vue St.Tickets £2.50 (including afternoon tea) from Age UK North Tyneside, Saville Street West, North Shields. (280 8484).

Sunday 31st

Festival church service – 2.30pm at Wallsend Baptist Church, Milfield Avenue. Everyone is welcome to join the service and stay for refreshments afterwards. (289 1184). Published by the Age Takes Centre Stage Planning Group, August 2010.

For a large print programme, please call (0191) 280 8498. Please note: Events may be subject to change.

Have your say on draft policy Sex shops and sex cinemas have been regulated in North Tyneside for some time.

horizons widening

However, the Policing and Crime Act which came into force earlier this year extended this power to include a new class of premises – sexual entertainment venues – that councils may choose to license. This new class of premises is one where entertainment consisting of a live display of nudity takes place – for example, pubs and clubs that have striptease on a regular basis, lap dancing clubs and similar types of establishments. The council is currently consulting on whether to adopt these new powers to enable it to license such establishments and, if so, what its policy on licensing such establishments should be. A draft licensing policy has been developed which will incorporate sex shops, sex cinemas and the new category of sexual entertainment venues.

Do you need advice on debt?

The council is currently working with independent and impartial advisers to provide free debt advice to all residents. Telephone debt advice is available by contacting DAWN (Advice) Ltd on 0300 303 1613 – Mondays to Fridays, between 9am and 8pm.

Currently there is no specific licence requirement for this type of entertainment and the government has recognised that further controls should be made available to local authorities. If the new powers are adopted, the council will be able to regulate the number of premises in the borough, where these premises are situated and how that entertainment should be appropriately provided. You can comment on the adoption of the provisions and the draft policy – the closing date is 5pm on November 5. Further information is available at www.northtyneside.gov.uk or by contacting the Licensing Section on (0191) 643 2175. You can also write to the Licensing Section, North Tyneside Council, The Killingworth Site, Station Road, Killingworth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE12 6UB.

You can also talk to CAB staff at the White Swan Centre, Killingworth (Monday), the Oxford Centre, Longbenton (Tuesday) and the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley (Thursday) every week between 11am and 1pm.

For a face-to-face appointment, contact North Tyneside Citizens Advice Bureau on (0191) 270 4485.

Be a good sport! Are you aged over 16, motivated, supportive, and willing to learn? Then why not become a sports volunteer.

As part of Widening Horizons 4 Sport, the council has teamed up with the North Tyneside Voluntary Organisation Development Agency (VODA) to increase the number of volunteers involved in sports. Becoming a sports volunteer is not only a way of giving something back to the community and making new friends but it can lead to new skills and qualifications. There are lots of roles available including sports coaching, officiating, event support, and working with older people or people with disabilities. If you would like to be part of the Widening Horizons 4 Sport Volunteer Programme, contact Sports Development on (0191) 643 7447,

visit www.sportnorthtyneside.org.uk or email sportdevelopment@northtyneside.gov.uk Meanwhile,VODA is offering free support to local sports clubs and organisations by helping them recruit and manage volunteers.This includes: ●

●

Promotion of volunteering opportunities on the national volunteering website Do-It, and through face-to-face meetings with potential volunteers. Free training on areas such as volunteer recruitment, support and retention. One-to-one support to identify new volunteering opportunities within the organisation. A range of good practice resources.

If you represent a sports club and wish to arrange a meeting to discuss your club’s needs, please contact VODA on (0191) 200 8568 or robin.fry@voda.org.uk

On the ball: Becoming a sports volunteer can lead to new skills and qualifications.

widening horizons • October 2010

New grant scheme for sports coaches Sports coaches interested in developing their skills can apply for a new council grant. The Widening Horizons 4 Sports Coach Education Grant can help an individual fund a course in their chosen sport if it would lead to a Level Two or higher award. If you’re a coach who lives and/or is involved in sports in North Tyneside, then you could be eligible. The council also offers talented sports performers a grant to help meet their costs.This could include travel, specialist equipment, coaching and entry fees. Awards of up to £250 are available in both schemes. For more information or an application form, visit www.sportnorthtyneside.org.uk or contact Sports Development on (0191) 643 7447 or email sportsdevelopment @northtyneside.gov.uk The next deadline for applications is October 31.

RIZONS O H G IN WIDEN Tyneside h t r o N t Spor

Youngsters create a drama

Playhouse history takes centre stage

North Tyneside’s innovative youth theatre programme is now run by a new company,Theatre Tantaraa, founded by acclaimed writer and director Laura Lindow.

A unique art installation reflects the past, present and future of the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, sponsored by the Evening Chronicle.

Theatre Tantaraa is about ‘trumpeting young voices’, developing the creativity in each young person by producing new drama that reflects the unique experiences of those involved. All the work is created by the young people themselves, collaborating with professional artists. Their latest production,Where You Left Me, recently wowed audiences at the Saville Exchange in North Shields. Theatre Tantaraa is always keen to get new members involved and the next series of workshops start in the autumn in North Shields,Wallsend and Killingworth. Contact the company via its website www.theatretantaraa.co.uk or ring (0191) 643 7421.

Meanwhile, there are three Year of the Arts events to look out for in October. Folk legends Eliza Carthy and Norma Waterson (11th) and punk poet John Cooper Clarke (22nd) are coming to the PLAYHOUSE Whitley Bay, sponsored by the Evening Chronicle. For full details of forthcoming PLAYHOUSE productions, see page 19. Cloud Nine Theatre’s Sixties Group present their new production Playtime at the Saville Exchange (27th-30th). This production has been commissioned by North Tyneside Council with support from Arts Council England (for more details,see page 38).

NS HORIZO G IN N E WID e th Tynesid r o N s t r A

A specially-created stage set brings together a time capsule, plaques recording contributions to the theatre’s refurbishment, and historical tableaux depicting it through the ages. Rid Stokoe, who was involved with the theatre for many years, has put together a time capsule from many local sources, including brochures, posters and other memorabilia. Meanwhile, as part of the fundraising programme for the refurbishment of the theatre, individuals and local arts groups have bought seats, in their own name or in memory of loved ones, with each seat represented by an engraved plaque. Rolf Wojciechowski, originally from Berlin, was commissioned to bring these different elements together into something that represented the history of the theatre. It led to him producing the installation, which can be seen in an alcove on the ground floor corridor leading to the auditorium.

Get fit for less with a Contours gym membership Contours membership starts from as little as

£18* per month and includes unlimited use of the brand new state-of-the-art gym, 25 metre swimming pool and exercise classes * TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

Hadrian Leisure Centre St. Peter’s Road,Wallsend

widening horizons • October 2010

n a i r d a e r t H n e C e r u s Lei ND E S L L WA

Senior, junior, off peak, single and joint memberships available

Call (0191) 643 2610 or (0191) 643 2611

ORIZONS WIDENING H neside Sport Nor th Ty

Big adventures! North Tyneside’s first ever Adventure Playground is now open!

The Adventure Playground will be fully staffed by a team of play workers during its hours of opening.

The fantastic new facility can be found on Brenkley Avenue in Shiremoor, next to Shiremoor Primary School.

Specialist staff will support targeted activities for children with additional needs.

It’s packed with brilliant play features for children of all ages, including wooden climbing frames, rope swings and rope bridges, den-building spaces, tunnels, sandpits, slides, and landscaped and natural play areas. There’s also a multi-use sports court for ball games and an indoor play centre for arts and crafts and play therapy, plus refreshment areas, toilets and changing and showering facilities. The playground and play centre have been specifically designed so that children of all abilities can enjoy them, and many of the features are fully wheelchair accessible.

The Adventure Playground is aimed at young people aged between eight and 13, but all ages are welcome. An adult must accompany under-8s at all times. Entry is free!

Opening times Term time Tuesday to Friday (3.30pm to 7.30pm) Saturday (1pm to 6pm) School holidays Tuesday to Friday (10am to 3pm) For further information, contact the Play and Urban Games Team on (0191) 643 8385 or 8384.

Hard work pays off

Hours of hard work has paid off for students anxiously awaiting their exam results. At A-level, the borough saw its firstever 100 per cent pass rate – meaning that every student who sat the exams achieved at least one pass. Overall, seven per cent of students achieved three or more A-levels at the highest A or A* grades. George Stephenson High School achieved its best ever set of results, on every measure. Head teacher Ian Wilkinson said: ”The large majority of our students have secured their first choice university place. Six students gained straight As or A*s.This is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the students and their teachers." GCSE students celebrated a great set of results too, with 53 per cent achieving five or more GCSEs at A*-C, including English and maths. This years’ results also indicated the gap between schools in the borough is continuing to narrow. Students at Churchill Community College,Wallsend matched Whitley Bay High School with 91 per cent of students achieving five or more GCSEs at A* - C grade. David Baldwin, head teacher at Churchill, said:“This is a massive improvement from our results last year and are the product of a great deal of hard work by students and staff as well as support from parents.The additional support that the college offered has enabled students to exceed their target grades.“

Amy takes The Shop Local Challenge The Shop Local Challenge is about shopping in your street, your town, your borough. Amy Wardlaw took on The Shop Local Challenge by doing all her shopping in Whitley Bay for one week. Amy, 28, lives with her partner Mark and works for the civil service.Whitley Bay town centre is just one mile from Amy’s house but she usually shops 20 miles away at the MetroCentre or 10 miles away in Newcastle City Centre. If every adult in North Tyneside spent just £5 per week in local shops, it would mean an extra £38m per year going into our local economy. After the challenge, Amy found that she saved bags of time, cash and petrol by shopping locally.

Amy’s shopping diary

I got a lovely pair of shoes from the Stock Exchange, where you can swap your unwanted clothes and accessories for new ones that you do want.The shop is really well presented and the owner, Jill Watson, is selective over what items she will accept. Next, I went to No Rock n Roll, which sells a wide range of underwear including exclusive lines from local designers. It has a real vintage feel inside and owner Trina Lamacq was really friendly and helpful.

I’ve recently moved from Wallsend to Monkseaton, so I also picked up some unique trinkets and cushions from Jamboree. Again, the people behind the counter were welcoming and chatty and the shop was full of hidden gems you wouldn’t find anywhere else.

Monday Mondays can feel like a chore, so I made a little ‘me’ time at Hana Beauty Salon after work.

Saturday I like to treat myself to some retail therapy on a Saturday. It only took five minutes to get into the town centre and I got parked really easily at Park View Shopping Centre. Whitley Bay has a relaxed and friendly vibe and I really enjoyed walking around the shops. I know it is a cliché but you really do get service with a smile in your local high street. I think it’s because the owners of the shops actually work there and take real pride in what they do.

widening horizons • October 2010

I parked for free across the road and found a space straight away. It was much easier than travelling into the centre of Newcastle, where I would have had to take on the rush hour traffic and pay about £5 to park. While I was in town, I got some fresh meat from Nicholson & Son in Park View.They get all their meat locally so they are great quality and it also feels good to know I am supporting our local traders.

Wednesday I popped to Morrisons on Hillheads Road for my weekly shop. I usually go here, as it’s my closest supermarket and just half a mile from my house.

Forum will play a vital role Friday It was the end of the week and time for another treat. I headed to the PLAYHOUSE to see the Rat Pack with my boyfriend.We had a great time, made even better by the fact that we got two-for-one tickets and it was free to park! And we finished the evening with some good old fish and chips from Pantrinis on Marine Avenue. The Shop Local Challenge has made me appreciate everything that I have right here on my doorstep. I will definitely be shopping locally more often from now on - I should have tried it sooner!

As Widening Horizons went to press, local employers were preparing to celebrate the launch of the borough’s new Business Forum.

“It will have a voice and that means the council will benefit from vitally important views and information that can help to shape our future decision-making.”

The council, in partnership with the business community, has set up the forum to ensure employers have a network to access advice and support.

Eric Donjon, of Entek International Ltd, the chairman of the forum, said it would be able to advise on a range of business-related matters and put companies in touch with the right people.

Companies will also be able to channel their views on issues relating to business, employment and the local economy into the decision-making process. “The launch of the Business Forum is an important milestone for the borough,” said Elected Mayor Linda Arkley.

“It’s our aim to remove as many barriers as we can to promote growth and success,” he said. For more details, visit www.northtynesidebusinessforum.co.uk You can also phone Sandra Wilson on (0191) 643 6000 or email: businessforum@northtyneside.gov.uk Meanwhile, there is still time to enter the North Tyneside Small Business Awards. The annual awards ceremony is open to any business based in the borough, which has been trading for at least six months and has less than 100 employees.

Shopping challenge: Amy Wardlaw and partner Mark.

For details and application forms, contact Karen Carr on (0191) 643 6410 or email: karen.carr@northtyneside.gov.uk You can also download the form from the business section of the council website.

Team can help you set up in business The Business Factory offers free advice to people in NorthTyneside with the aim of generating new business ideas and stimulating the growth of enterprise in the borough.

The service, which is delivered byTEDCO on behalf of NorthTyneside Council, is aimed at potential entrepreneurs. The Business Factory is offering a service to help people start a franchise business. This includes an exhibition, which explains how franchising works, and a series of workshops. Buying a franchise offers a ready-made business model and a brand name – with support and training from the franchise owner to help get your business up and running. To find out more about franchising, and whether it might be suitable for you, call into the Business Factory in High Street West,Wallsend, phone Alan Graham on (0191) 263 6092 or email: agraham@tedco.org

The Business Factory is also staging a series of workshops for enterprising mams – women who are committed, flexible and able to find creative ways around the problems that suddenly emerge out of the blue.

For more information, or to book a place at the Enterprising Mams workshop at the Riverside Children’s Centre on Thursday, November 11, phone (0191) 263 6092 or email: mkennedy@tedco.org

Whether it’s knitting, cake making or organising parties, starting a business is a great option for many mams because it allows them to work flexibly – often from home – and may provide an opportunity to revive old interests.

If you are looking for ideas on setting up a business, why not access our Ideas Bank?

The workshops are free, practical and provide the chance to meet other likeminded mams who want to put their ideas into action.

To see the opportunities available, visit our website – www.businessfactorynt.co.uk

It’s equipped with more than 250 opportunities for potential businesses – including everything from online ventures to franchises.

If you would prefer a more personal service, the Ideas Team will be holding the following workshops to help you develop your ideas and start making some money: • October 7 – Market Research at Howdon Community Centre. • October 14 – Networking at Age Concern’s Bradbury Centre, North Shields. • October 21 – Marketing at Howdon Community Centre. • October 28 – Finance at Howdon Community Centre.

widening horizons • October 2010

All workshops run from 10am to1pm. For more details, phone Danyelle Towns on (0191) 263 6092 or email: dtowns@tedco.org

Do you want to make a difference?

Would you like to train as an early years teacher? North Tyneside has an outstanding professional training programme for future teachers specialising in early years education.

The North Tyneside 3-7 School Centred Initial Teacher Training Programme (SCITT) is a year-long post-graduate programme, which provides a practical introduction to teaching and a professional qualification to teach. Last year, Ofsted rated the North Tyneside 3-7 SCITT as ‘outstanding’. Inspectors noted ‘the outstanding quality of input from local authority early years advisers and consultants’

and added ‘trainees develop into reflective practitioners with a clear philosophy of early years education.’

Programme manager Mhairi McGowan said:“A very high proportion of our trainees go on to secure teaching jobs shortly after completion, which clearly reflects the high standard of North Tyneside 3-7 SCITT graduates in a highly competitive arena.” The course is based at the Langdale Centre in Wallsend, home of the School Improvement Service for North Tyneside schools. SCITT is a unique collaborative partnership between schools within North Tyneside, the School Improvement Service and Northumbria University.

Trainees graduate with a Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Early Primary) with Qualified Teacher Status.The university validates the award of the PGCE. The programme equips trainees with the knowledge, skills and understanding to become effective primary school teachers, working in particular with early years pupils. A particular feature of the programme relates to trainees gaining extensive experience of primary school teaching within North Tyneside.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a degree from a UK university or a recognised equivalent qualification. They must also possess GCSEs or equivalent in English, mathematics and science (A-C). Applicants must have recent and relevant experience in an early years and/or Key Stage One setting in order to progress to interview. For more details: Kate Ritchie North Tyneside 3-7 SCITT Administrator The Langdale Centre Langdale Gardens Howdon Wallsend NE28 0HG Tel: 0191 643 8855 email: kate.ritchie@northtyneside.gov.uk

Northumbria Police Operation Iron comes to the village Extra police have been on patrol in Tynemouth Village as part of Operation Iron, which helps to reduce crime and disorder and reassure residents and visitors. Officers carried out high-visibility foot patrols and kept a watchful eye on

speeding or inconsiderate drivers. Police

Clear message: PC Rob Clothier with an Operation Iron poster in Tynemouth Village.

reminded the public that Tynemouth Village has a 20mph limit and motorists need to drive safely.

Officers also targeted anti-social behaviour and under-age drinkers – visiting pubs and bars to monitor behaviour and provide support to bar and door staff.

The patrols were also on duty around the busier Metro stations, working alongside Metro staff to reassure travellers.

Insp Geoff Cross said: "Tackling anti-social

behaviour is a priority for us, which is why we carry out these targeted patrols.We

want to send a clear message that we will not tolerate under-age drinking and will take action.

"If anyone has any concerns about crime and disorder in their community, please contact your neighbourhood policing team."

widening horizons • October 2010

New HQ set to open The new North Tyneside Area Command headquarters will open in November. The station on Middle Engine Lane,Wallsend (next to B&Q), will be open to the public 24 hours a day.There is parking on-site and public transport is also available for visitors to the station. Chief Supt Gary Calvert, North Tyneside Area Commander, said: "The station has been designed to meet the needs of 21st Century policing and will enable us to continue to deliver the high quality policing service people expect.

"We are determined to provide the best possible policing service to the people of North Tyneside. “There will be no reduction in the accessibility or visibility of police resources in the Wallsend area as a result of these changes. “The dedicated Wallsend Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue to patrol this area and provide a high quality policing service to all communities in Wallsend.”

local news Seaside patrols reassure the public Officers have stepped up seaside patrols this summer to help look after large numbers of visitors to the borough’s beaches. Neighbourhood officers provide a uniform presence to reassure residents and visitors alike as they enjoy the seaside. Until the end of September, more patrols are on duty in coastal areas including Cullercoats Bay, Longsands and the surrounding areas. Sgt Dave Foy said: "Dealing with alcohol-related crime and disorder in the seafront areas is an important issue and we will continue to work with our partners to deal with it.”

Officers have been working with RNLI lifeguards, who safeguard North Tyneside beaches during the summer. "Cullercoats Bay and the surrounding areas are one of our policing priorities,” added Sgt Foy.“We are using all available methods to tackle this issue, including banning people intent on anti-social behaviour from specific areas and using CCTV to monitor behaviour and identify offenders." Officers can also utilise the Designated Public Place Order for Cullercoats, which came into effect last year.This means that anyone who has alcohol and causes anti-social behaviour will have their drink confiscated by officers and could face further action. Team spirit: PC Alan Mooring (front) PC Kev Daykin and lifeguards Antonia Reay and Chris Elliot.

Officers join in festival fun Neighbourhood officers have attended this year's Wallsend Festival. The annual event, organised by Wallsend Festival Association and supported by other organisations, including the council, took place in July. Police were on hand to meet members of the community and offer crime prevention advice. PCs Lisa Turnbull and Steve Dobson, accompanied by Community Support Officers Carl Brydon and Kevin Dale, answered queries and talked about local policing issues. Insp Pam Bridges said: "This year's event had a great atmosphere and lots of people came along to stop and talk to our officers. "The team enjoyed supporting the festival, which is in the heart of the community. It was a great opportunity for people to tell us what is happening in their area, so that we can continue to work together to reduce crime and disorder.’ ’

Show a little respect Showing a little bit more respect can make our communities better places to live.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the message from Northumbria Police as officers crack down on anti-social behaviour. Anti-social behaviour is any aggressive, intimidating or destructive activity that damages another person's quality of life. While young people are often perceived to be the main offenders, it

covers a range of crime and behaviour, from inconsiderate parking to noisy parties. The campaign portrays a series of scenarios from two different points of view, illustrating that anti-social behaviour could often be avoided if people consider the impact on others. Throughout North Tyneside, police are working with partners to target issues that can make people feel harassed or victimised. A range of activities has included enforcement of a beach party banning order and taking under-18s

who are found drinking alcohol home to their parents. The well-established â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Operation Ironâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, an increased focus on neighbourhoods to tackle the issues that matter to them most, has continued throughout the summer. If anti-social behaviour is affecting your quality of life, or making you fear for your safety or the safety of others, contact Northumbria Police.

Northumbria Police local news

Police donate bikes to local students Officers are giving bikes to pupils learning cycle maintenance so they can practise a new skill and get fit at the same time.

Year 10 Applied Studies students Ryan Cherry, Daniel Clennell and Steven Smith are among those benefiting from the donations.

PCs Derek Welch and Richie Parker are regular visitors to George Stephenson High School and were keen to offer help when they learned students needed more bikes to work on.

"We repaired the broken bikes to encourage more people to ride and take more exercise, which in turn helps to reduce the school’s carbon footprint,’ ’ said one.

PC Welch said: "We often recover bicycles which are unclaimed by the public and we're very pleased to donate these items so they get put to good use.

"It’s great that we get old bikes because we can only make this work if people are willing to donate them. We are very grateful to Northumbria Police for donating nearly 40 bikes so far."

‘’Often these bikes need some maintenance work doing on them before they can be used safely."

Pedal power: Officers with the Year 10 and 11 Applied Studies students.

Contact us If you want to find out more about how local officers police your community, why not come along to one of our public meetings? Partners and Communities

Together (PACT) meetings are

held across North Tyneside and are publicised on the force website. You can also come along to an

informal police drop-in surgery

where you can talk to your local neighbourhood officer or seek

crime prevention advice.You can check out forthcoming dates by logging on to the force website. Or why not sign up for a free

online e-newsletter and find out what your local neighbourhood

policing team has been doing to make your community safer.

Simply go to the police website,

www.northumbria.police.uk/your_ neighbourhood North Tyneside

page, choose which area you are

interested in and enter your email address in the newsletter sign-up box.

New initiative Members of the North Tyneside Strategic Partnership have developed a new initiative that will help improve the safety of residents and visitors to our borough.

Projects and businesses supporting the

“The partnership aims to build on this

the new logo.

together to make North Tyneside a

expect to become more familiar with

“Safer North Tyneside will continue to

Safer North Tyneside is a multi-agency

local organisations are working

listened to and feel confident that all

partnership working together to create safer communities.

Those supporting Safer North Tyneside include the council, Northumbria

Police, North Tyneside PCT,Tyne and

Wear Fire and Rescue Service, and the Probation Trust.

new initiative will be easily identified by

Over the coming months, residents can the logo knowing that a number of together to make them feel safer. Cllr Glynis Barrie, cabinet member for Community Services and Safer

Neighbourhoods and also Chair of the

excellent achievement by working safe place to be.

support the culture where people are partners understand their local

problems and are working together to improve the quality of life for all who live, work or visit the borough.”

Safer North Tyneside partnership, said:

Residents living in the North Shields

metropolitan borough in England.

Safer North Tyneside initiative

“North Tyneside is the safest

area will be among the first to see a operating in their area.

During September, council officers and the police will be working with local

retailers to reduce underage drinking. Further information on the scheme is available on the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Confiscated: Police will be working with local retailers to reduce the amount of underage drinking.

Widening horizons • October 2010

Pride

Council takes North Tyneside Council was represented at the recent Northern Pride festival – a regional celebration for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGB and T) population.

The council had a market stall to promote its services, meet as many residents as possible and identify those who were happy for the council to contact them again in the future. Around 12,000 people in the borough are estimated to be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.

During the afternoon, council officers talked to more than 160 people about the services it provides, including housing, young people’s participation, fostering and registrars services. Northern Pride, which was held in Newcastle, is an annual event and an estimated 10,000 people attended this year, including around 900 from North Tyneside. More than 50 organisations were represented, including other councils, the police, fire service, housing associations, trade unions and health agencies.

North Tyneside Together Across the country, the public, private and voluntary sectors – in partnership with residents – are finding new ways to work together. The aim is to provide better services while saving money wherever possible. North Tyneside Strategic Partnership (NTSP), which brings together representatives from the council, emergency services, health, education, business and the voluntary sector, is looking at how this approach could be adopted in the borough. As a first step, members are focussing on how they can reduce the harm caused by alcohol and drugs. The project – called ‘North Tyneside Together’ – was chosen because of the effect misused alcohol and drugs have on the lives of residents, visitors and the cost to public services. For example, 57 per cent of domestic violence and 47 per cent of crime is alcohol-related while the borough has around 1,000 problem drug users. More detailed information is now being gathered which will decide how the project is developed. Further details are available on the NTSP website at www.ntsp-online.org.uk or by phoning (0191) 643 5621.

Primary Care Trusts are the local part of your such as those provided by GPs, district nurses,

Give your views on White Paper The Government White Paper Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS sets out major changes across the NHS and local residents are being invited to give their views.

Changes in the White Paper include the phasing out of primary care trusts and strategic health authorities and the establishment of GP consortia and an independent NHS Commissioning Board. There are currently four public consultations running on different aspects of the White Paper.

• • • •

They are: Transparency in outcomes: a framework for the NHS Increasing democratic legitimacy in health Liberating the NHS: commissioning for patients Liberating the NHS: regulating healthcare providers The full White Paper can be viewed online at www.northoftyne.nhs.uk And you can also give your views by emailing: NHSwhitepaper@northeast.nhs.uk

Tell us what you think

During the past couple of months, residents have completed a questionnaire and given their views on local pharmacy services. The results of the questionnaire have been used by NHS North of Tyne, which works on behalf of North Tyneside PCT, to draft a pharmaceutical needs assessment (PNA).

Now people in the borough are being asked to look at the draft PNA and comment on the proposals.

Dr Mike Guy, medical director for NHS North of Tyne, said:“Whether it’s picking up a repeat prescription, or getting advice from the pharmacist about a common ailment, community pharmacies are important for people. “Your views on the draft PNA are important to make sure that

widening horizons • October 2010

pharmacy services continue to meet the needs of local people.”

You can see the draft PNA at www.northoftyne.nhs.uk. If you would like a paper copy of the document, please phone (0191) 217 2599 or email: contactus@northoftyne.nhs.uk

NHS and run community healthcare services, health visitors and specialist therapists.

Remember Plan B Accidents can happen but if you experience a mishap while having sex, remember Plan B – the free emergency contraception that can prevent unplanned pregnancy. The scheme is part of North

free emergency contraception to

recommend women seek advice as

Under Plan B, women can call into

To find your nearest Plan B

the emergency contraception pill,

0845 4647 – or look out for the Plan

women of all ages.

participating pharmacies and ask for which can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.

Tyneside PCT’s sexual health strategy

In some cases, emergency

unplanned conceptions by offering

days after unprotected sex but we

to help reduce the number of

soon as possible.

pharmacy, contact NHS Direct on

B sign displayed in pharmacies and health centres.

contraception is suitable up to five

Think Pharmacy First for head lice

A campaign helping people who receive free prescriptions to go straight to their pharmacy for treatment is also tackling the problem of head lice.

area – who get free prescriptions

She said:“We are delighted that

and faster access to treatment for

going straight to their pharmacy to

Around three million people in the UK catch head lice every year and, according to independent research, around one in five children are affected.

helping people who are seeking

Think Pharmacy First aims to give patients across the North of Tyne

due to low income – greater choice minor conditions.

The campaign has proved useful in treatment for head lice.

Ann Gunning, community pharmacy

contracts manager at NHS North of Tyne, is working on behalf of North Tyneside PCT.

people are using the scheme and get free treatment for conditions such as head lice and hay fever.”

For more information, go to any pharmacy that shows a Think

Pharmacy First window sticker. You can also get a list of these pharmacies from

www.northoftyne.nhs.uk

Spreading the

safety message As the autumn term gets underway, council staff and police officers are spreading the road safety message at the school gates.

Last year, three drivers were issued with fixed penalty notices for failing to park correctly.

safe driving message, and 20mph signs incorporating their artwork will be installed in selected areas.

During peak pick-up and drop-off times, they’ll be reminding parents and carers of their responsibilities.

Chief Insp David Felton, of North Tyneside Area Command, said: "The vast majority of motorists drive and park safely but a persistent number are causing problems for others.

For more information, contact the council’s parking control team on (0191) 643 2121 or email parkingcontrol@northtyneside.gov.uk

Drivers can be issued with a fixed penalty notice if they fail to drive or park within the law.

“Motorists should be aware that we will take the necessary enforcement action to keep the borough safe."

Cllr Ed Hodson, cabinet member for Environment, said:“We all have a responsibility to make sure that the streets around schools remain safe for children and other pedestrians. “By showing consideration for other road users, and the law, we can make North Tyneside a safer place for all.”

It’s 20 for a reason An enforceable 20mph speed limit is in place around the majority of the borough’s schools, and will be extended to all schools by early next year. Pupils have been helping to spread the

Safety message: PC Nick Smith outside Forest Hall Primary School.

Six months to go Next March, all households in the UK – including North Tyneside – will receive the 2011 census form.

The census, which takes place every 10 years, provides an authoritative source of information and enables central and local government, and other organisations, to plan for the years ahead. The questionnaire, which takes about 10 minutes to complete, can be returned using the pre-paid envelope or – for the first time – completed online via a secure Internet site. It is compulsory to complete the census but the personal information you provide is protected by law and kept confidential for 100 years. There is a wide range of support available to help people complete their census form. More information about the 2011 Census can be found at: www.census.gov.uk

widening horizons • October 2010

Jackie is back on track! From the Roman occupation to restored steam engines – there’s plenty to see at the borough’s museums this Autumn.

There’s still time to catch The Eagles Have Landed, which runs until October 3, at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend. The exhibition explores the sudden arrival of the Romans and their impact on the local community and forms part of Segedunum’s 10th birthday celebrations. October also sees two opportunities to find out if you could make it as a new recruit in the Roman army as the formidable centurion Maximus puts you through your paces. Roman Bootcamp with Maximus is on Tuesday 26 and Thursday 28, from 11am to 4pm each day. For more details, contact Segedunum on (0191) 236 9347 or visit www.twmuseums.org.uk

Meanwhile, a four-year restoration project is nearing the end of the line at the Stephenson Railway Museum in North Shields. The Ashington No 5 engine, better known as Jackie Milburn, is undergoing final testing and will be unveiled to the public during the Autumn. Staff and volunteers have restored the engine after securing almost £140,000 to carry out the work. It is hoped the engine will haul the Hallowe’en Train – a special service on October 31 – and the ever-popular Santa Specials, which start on December 4. For more details, phone (0191) 200 7146 or go to the Tyne & Wear Museums website.

NS HORIZO G IN N E WID e r th Tynesid o N e r u lt Cu

Public questions

Members of the public are invited to put their questions to meetings of the full council. You can seek answers to queries relating to any council service, or issue that affects the borough, at the council meetings on Thursday, November 18 and Thursday, March 17. The meetings – held in the Council Chamber, Quadrant,The Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park – start at 6pm. Anyone wishing to ask a question must give notice of their question in writing, by fax, or email – no later than 5pm on either Monday, November 8 (for November 18) or Monday, March 7 (for March 17). The questions (one per person) will be answered by Elected Mayor Linda Arkley, or a member of her cabinet, during a half-hour session for public questions. Questions should be sent to Gary Petitjean, Democratic Services, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant (3rd Floor L),The Silverlink North, Cobalt Business Park, NE27 0BY. You can also fax (0191) 643 2430 or email: democraticsupport@ northtyneside.gov.uk For more details, phone Gary Petitjean on (0191) 643 5317 or visit the council website – www.northtyneside.gov.uk

HUGE CHOICE OF COURSES ENROLLING NOW

Have your say on new Local Transport Plan

Whether we walk, cycle, drive, use public transport or buy goods brought in by lorry, transport matters to all of us – and now is the chance to have your say on the new 10-year strategy for transport in Tyne and Wear.

providing services such as cycle training

The council, together with its Tyne and

The strategy seeks to help deliver

people's views on the draft Local

development and regeneration; climate

Wear partners, will be asking for

Transport Plan between October 18

and December 10 and would welcome your feedback.

The Local Transport Plan covers a

wide range of transport objectives,

including maintaining and improving

local transport infrastructure; making transport more sustainable and

and personal travel planning which give people wider travel options.

As well as a 10-year strategy for Tyne and Wear, it will include three-year

delivery plans for North Tyneside and the other districts.

three key local aims: economic

change and safer and sustainable communities.

From October 18, you will be able to

find a copy of the draft plan, a feedback form, questionnaire and details of consultation events at your local library or online at:

http://www.tyneandwearLTP.co.uk

Café serves up new opportunities

A new café in North Tyneside won’t just offer food and drink to the community – it will also offer valuable training and employment opportunities.

The council has awarded the contract to run its café in the John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley, to MHC Social Enterprises Ltd. The Sunderland-based firm is the social enterprise arm of the registered charity Mental Health Care. It provides training and employment to people with mental health problems, physical difficulties, and others whose circumstances are making it difficult to get into work. The organisation will be employing four people to work in the café, which opens on October 4, and offering training and volunteering opportunities in administrative and catering roles. Anyone interested in training or volunteering opportunities at the café should contact Suzanne Devine at Mental Health Care on (0191) 549 6500.

✂

OPENING OFFER Receive a free drink * When you purchase any sandwich or meal at JWS Centre during October **

* This voucher must be produced and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer ** Offer ends 31st October 2010

widening horizons • October 2010

National Fraud Initiative data matching exercise 2010/11

By law, the council is required to protect the public funds it administers. It is required to share information with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds, in order to prevent and detect fraud. Under section 6 of the Audit Commission Act 1998, the council is required to take part in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI) data matching exercise.

●

● ●

Transport passes and permits (including residents' parking, blue badges and concessionary travel passes) Insurance claimants Licences - market trader/operator, taxi driver and personal licences to supply alcohol.

Further information is available on the council website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk/nfi or the Audit Commission website at www.audit-commission.gov.uk/nfi

Where data matches raise anomalies, the Audit Commission will send these back to the council for further investigation.

Data will be provided by the council to the Audit Commission for the NFI and will be used for cross-system and cross-authority comparison for the prevention and detection of fraud. The National Fraud Initiative takes place every two years and during 2006/07, identified £140m of fraud and error across the UK. Data included in data matching has been expanded by the Audit Commission and for the 2010/11 exercise, the council is required to submit data to the commission relating to: ● ●

● ●

●

Payroll and pensions payroll Trade creditors' payment history and standing data Housing Housing benefits (supplied by Department of Work and Pensions) Students eligible for a loan (supplied by Student Loan Company) Private supported care home residents

Careworkers required for the following areas: North Tyneside, Newcastle and Gateshead » Experience preferred, however training will be provided. » Car drivers preferred but not essential. » Must be available to work early mornings, evenings, weekends. » Hours 16+ per week. Rates exceed minimum wage. » Applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced check from the Criminal Records Bureau.

Newcastle - 0191 4773786 Gateshead - 0191 4777786 North Tyneside - 0191 2537676

Keep it local North Tyneside Council is committed to helping small businesses. If your company is based in the borough, you can advertise on this page – free of charge. Just send the following details and we’ll put your entry in the next available issue: • Name of company • Brief (20 words maximum) description of your business • Phone, email or web address

Please note: space is allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Adverts not used in one edition will receive priority for the next. The next issue of Widening Horizons is published on November 8. Deadline for adverts is October 1. Send your details to: steve.forshaw@northtyneside.gov.uk You can also write to Steve Forshaw at the address on page 3. (Terms and conditions available on request.)

PlanIT Design

Heslop Appliances

Tel: 0845 604 3757 Email: info@planitdesigned.co.uk www.planitdesigned.co.uk

Tel: (0191) 263 4296

The Greenkeeper

Elaine Parker

RIBA chartered architects. Plans and specifications for home alterations, extensions and loft conversions. Information prepared for Planning and Building Control approval. From £400.

All aspects of garden maintenance and design at affordable rates, including decking, garden walls, block paving, fencing and city gardens. Tel: 07538 995 700 Email: greenkeepergardens@gmail.com

www.greenkeepergardens.co.uk

C & D Thompson Builders Ltd Renovations, alterations, extensions, block paving, paths and drives, conservatories, UPVC double glazing. Member of the Federation of Master Builders.

Tel: (0191) 253 1264 or 07860 402 099

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

www.heslop-appliances.co.uk

Reflexology, Reiki, Indian head massage – visit my therapy room or be treated at home. Full member of the Association of Reflexologists. Discounts for unwaged, retired and students.

Tel: (0191) 296 4885 or 0777 296 0818 www.tynemouththerapies.com

P S Thompson

Plastering services, property repairs. Quality and competitive rates. Free estimates, time-served independent specialist. Call Paul.

Tel: (0191) 257 1995 or 07949 785 493

North East Plans

The Mum Motivator

Tel: (0191) 257 2020

Tel: 07526 279 369

Building plans drawn for Planning and Building Regulation approval. Commercial and home developments. Competitive fee levels. 40 years experience.

www.northeastplans.co.uk

Ability Property Services

Gardening, flooring, painting and decorating. Call for a free estimate and competitive price.

Tel: (0191) 295 1335 or 07702 335 272

widening horizons • October 2010

Boost your self-esteem and confidence. Learn to be more positive, embrace change and cultivate an inner happiness. Call Shirley-Anne.

www.the-mum-motivator.co.uk

Henderson Memorials

Established for 100 years. Largest display in area. Memorials, additional inscriptions and renovations. Home visits and out-of-hours appointments. 41,Walton Avenue, North Shields.

Tel: (0191) 257 3357

Sidhu’s Golden Fish & Chips

Coastways Shopping Centre, Battle Hill Drive. Monday to Friday – 11am to 11pm.

Tel: (0191) 263 2011 Email: sidhustores@ymail.com

Tecspress Services

Technical problems at home? We fix and advise on all aspects of technology – TV, broadband, telephones, computers and more. Tel: (0191) 280 3185 or 07980 691 260

Email: helpme@tecspress.co.uk www.tecspress.co.uk

AMS Creative Colour

High quality designs for print and web. Full colour printing for business stationery, leaflets, posters, flyers, outdoor banners and canvas prints. Tel: (0191) 257 0704

Email: david@amscreativecolour.com www.amscreativecolour.com

Bay Tree Café

The Parks Sports Centre, North Shields. Pensioners specials, children’s parties. Outside catering and in-house corporate hospitality available. Contact Steph or Tracey.

Tel: 07795 546 907 or 07728 788 021 Email: baytreefood@sky.com

Whitley Bay Beds, Carpet & Furniture Centre

The shop with the stock! Specialists to guest houses and hotels. Best prices – fastest delivery in town. 1, Marden Road.

Tel: (0191) 251 2096

Priory BNI

The sole purpose of BNI is to generate more business for its members. Come along and see how we can help you.

Tel: 0800 977 4539

Email: Nicola@bni-northumbria.com

Executype PA

Stress & Strains Remedial Therapy

Tel: 07910 333 470 Email: info@executypepa.com www.executypepa.com

Tel: (0191) 258 5881

Professional, affordable secretarial and office services – we’ll focus on the paperwork while you focus on achieving your business goals.

Treatment of soft tissue injuries (muscular), sports and remedial massage, complimentary therapies such as aromatherapy massage, Indian head massage. FHT and REPs registered.

www.stressandstrains.com

Allguard Legal Services

Leaks and Locks Maintenance

Tel: (0191) 289 2924

Tel: (0191) 280 7822 or 0772 991 1291 Email: neil.pillans@btinternet.com

The right will for you and your family, arranged in your own home and at a price you can afford. www.allguardwills.co.uk/martin.wheater

Maple Textiles

42, High Street West,Wallsend. Also at Whitley Bay, Newcastle and Ashington. Readymade curtains, voile panels, cushions, poles, tracks. Made to measure service.

Tel: (0191) 263 8424

DJP Catering Services

Family business, based in Whitley Bay, providing buffets for all occasions. Quality and freshness guaranteed. Proprietor Mrs Jean Parker.

Tel: 07709 222 914

www.djp-catering.co.uk

Boilers installed, serviced and repaired. All general plumbing work and power flushing. Showers fitted and repaired. Landlord safety certificates. Replacement locks. Registered with Gas Safe.

CT Plastering

All work undertaken by time-served tradesmen. Call Carl for a free quote.

Tel: (0191) 253 0047 or 0779 483 6274

Alan Carr Jaguar Services

Independent Jaguar specialist. MOTs, servicing, bodywork, diagnostic, parts, pre-purchase inspections and more. Tel: (0191) 270 8110 or 07939 227 398 Email: acjagservices@hotmail.com

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

A ch change hange e off name—but name—b but sstill tilll the ssame ame From 15th September eptember 2010 the w well ell known known local charity, charity y, Age Concern North Tyneside, Tyneside, takes on and with o n a new new iimage mage a nd name name after after signing signing a Partnership Agreement A with Age Age UK. UK. Age UK Age UK has has become become the the country’s largest gest charity for older people following f the m erger of of Age Age Concern Concern merger E ngland and and Help Help the the Aged. Aged. England T he ttwo wo national national charities charities The merged in April Ap pril 2009 to form one organisation tion that aims to improve the lives ives of people in later life, both h in the UK and abroad.

North Tyneside eside

Allma Caldwell, Caldwell, Chief Chief Alma Executive of of Age Age UK UK North North Executive Tyneside Tyneside said: said: "Our "Our change change of of ame and logo g signifies g o name our artnership with Age UK but partnership we will will continue continue to to work work with with we nd for older people in North North and Tyneside as as an an independent independent Tyneside ch harity. We will offer the same charity. range and and breadth breadth of of range ctivities, opportunities, pportunities, care c activities, and and support support services services as as we we o now." do ver the last year year the charity arity Over

part of the community life since 1972, 1 formerly known as:

North Tyneside y

T he n ew logo logo of of Age Age UK UK is is The new bright and colourful. lourful. It depicts a loop loop of of vitality vitality and and circle circle of of life to represent ent the continuous, seamless seamless support by and tthat hat is is offered offered b y Age Age UK UK a nd iits ts local local partners. partners.

h helped nearly 500 olderr p people e claim £1.3m in extra b benefits. elivered 1,723 1,723 hours hours of of d delivered c care w and support each week t 405 people in their homes to omes O health and social al Offered health a activities for over 425 participants r regular t g 205 people p p to use se taught a enjoy computers. and as supported supported by by 228 228 w was (of all ages) who v volunteers g gave heir 33,855 hours of their t time over the year. Welcomed many to meet W meet a make friends at Jarrett’s and rrett’s C Coffee Shop

Age UK North Tyneside

“A As Age UK North Alma adds: “As Tyneside, we have the best of both both worlds: worlds: a local local g r p g to organisation responding local concerns concerns and and needs, needs, local together together with with a strong strong national national by government charity to lobby and carry out research.” If you haven’tt yet found out what North Tyneside w hat Age Age UK UK N orth T yneside can do for you u (or what you can do with them), hem), then call in, ring up or find f the m on the them internet.

Age A ge U UK KN North orth T Tyneside yneside Bradbury y Centre ntre 13 Saville Street reet West North N orth Shields Shields NE29 6QP Tel 8484 T el ((0191) 0191) 280 280 8 484 Email Email enquiries@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk e nquiries@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk Website Website w ww.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside

Age A ge U UK K iis s the the n new ew fforce orce c combining ombining and a nd