NE Online Magazine Issue 54 - It's Christmaaaaaaaas by Wayne Groves

Hi Chris and welcome to NE Magazine, for the few readers who must be living in a cave somewhere and don’t know who you are how about giving th em a quick l ow- down o n yourself? - Hello! Can’t help but think I’m writing your interview introduction for you here, oh well… I’m a stand-up comedian from South Shields and I’m also a bit of an actor now and then… but mainly a comedian… that might not come across as well as it should in print form, but I am. So there. At the moment it’s hard not seeing you on the TV when we switch it on as you’re everywhere, but what has been the highlight for you so far? - Not everywhere though am I? If you turn on QVC and I’m selling a frying pan, just assume you’ll find me floating face down in a river very soon. The highlight for me so far was probably being in Hebburn. Since starting comedy I always wanted to try my hand at being in a sitcom too so I was over the moon to do one with my mate and so close to my heart, and I got to work with Vic Reeves. I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields bar recently, how are you finding this, does it put you off going out? - Not at all. Any person in that position who has been on TV or whatever and people want photos (I’m trying my best not to say celebrity here!) who pretends they hate the attention is a liar. You don’t go for a career on TV because you don’t want anyone to notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when you want a photo then it’s no problem at all… I meant, like on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor.

Have you had any weird fan requests or incidents? - Not really. The odd person will show up to a gig with my face on a T-Shirt, or bake me a cake, or send me a dead animal in the post but other than that it’s just photos and autographs. A little kid in Hebburn when we were filming asked me to sign his micro scooter… that was a bit weird. As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and 8 out of 10 Cats you are now starring in the North East based sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about? - My mate and fellow comedian Jason Cook decided to write a sitcom about the town he was from, Hebburn, and he actually wrote me a little side part which he named after me. But when it came to being made the BBC asked me to read for the main character, and when I got it, Jason took the part that he’d written for me! It came about so gradually that I didn’t really realise the enormity of being lead role in a BBC2 sitcom until I saw the advert on TV. I nearly passed out. How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series! You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

Are there any venues on the tour that you are looking forward to playing or any you’re quite nervous about? - The Theatre Royal in Newcastle. I absolutely can’t wait. I used to watch panto there when I was a kid. I’m

We l c o m e N o t e . “ I t ’s C h r i s t m a a a a a a a a s ”. . .w e l l , n e a r l y. After the last year we have all had, we just need to remember what is important, and that is family and friends and not material things! We h o p e y o u a l l h a v e a v e r r y M e r r y Christmas and we’ll see you in 2022! As always, if you have something you want to see in a future issue then d o n ’ t fo r g e t t o d r o p u s a n e m a i l t o wayne. groves@neonlinemagazine. com P l u s r e m e m b e r t o fo l l o w u s o n Fa c e b o o k , Tw i t t e r & I n s t a g ra m fo r our regular updates on events and competitions. Till next time Ta ke c a r e Wa y n e

EDITOR & DESIGNER Wayne Groves wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com

O2 Academy Newcastle/City Hall www.o2academynewcastle.co.uk Sage Gateshead www.sagegateshead.com Ocean Beach Pleasure Park www.oceanbeach.co.uk Quasar Elite South Shields www.quasarsouthshields.co.uk For all queries or if you would like to feature or advertise in NE Magazine email wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com Unless stated otherwise all competition entries should be sent to win@ neonlinemagazine.com Plus you can catch up with us online for news, events, blogs, competitions and more at www.neonlinemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook. com/pages/N-E-Online-Magazine Join us on Twitter @NEOnlineMag1 And Instagram @neonlinemagazine

CONTRIBUTORS Peter Mann BSc Inside Mann Media & PR insidemannmedia.wordpress.com petermann78@hotmail.com Madhouse Media www.madhousemedia.co.uk SPONSORS Playhouse Whitley Bay www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk Cineworld Boldon www.cineworld.co.uk The Theatre Royal Newcastle www.theatreroyal.co.uk/

{THIS} {ISSUE} P6 Nathan Cuthbertson Memorial Show P14 Mica Paris P20 David McGovern & Santa Ste P24 NE AOTY 2021 Hayley McKay P32 Slade’s Dave Hill P40 Elizabeth Liddle P50 Middlesbrough Town Hall P54 Cineworld Round-Up P66 Vauxhall Young Driver P70 Playhouse Whitley Bay P74 The Sherlocks P74 Northern Threads P82 Save The High Street P86 Dorman Museum P90 Cool Runnings Comes to Boro 5

Nathan Cuthbertson

Thai Boxing Memorial Championship

When it comes to emotion, Remembrance Sunday is one of those days that unite everyone as we remember those real heroes who have fallen. Those brave young men and woman who put themselves into danger, often with no thought of themselves, only their fellow soldiers, who do so each time knowing that they may not make it back to their own families. One such solder was Pte Nathan Cuthbertson, who was serving with the 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment (2 PARA) in Afghanistan when he was killed while on foot patrol in June 2008. Nathan was one of three paratroopers who died when a lone insurgent detonated an explosive in the country’s Helmand Province. Nathan was just 19. Nathan’s family and friends have since kept his memory alive every day, not just on Remembrance Sunday. Since his death, his mam and dad, Tom and Carla, have devoted themselves to honouring his legacy with an annual bike ride

from Catterick Garrison back to Sunderland, which has raised thousands for charity. But on the 20th November, Rainton Arena played host to the very first Nathan Cuthbertson Thai Boxing Memorial Championship. A sold

out event that once again united the people of the North East as they paid their respects to our brave fallen. The event managed to raise a whopping £4000 for the Cuthy200 charity and for Support Our Paras (the official

charity for Parachute Regiment) from the ticket sales, literally all profit made was for these two fantastic charities. The main event of the show saw Aaron ‘Snowy’ Snowdon from the Royal Navy taking on Mark Holder from Cuthy 200 Thai Boxing for the Nathan Cuthbertson Thai

Boxing Memorial Championship belt. Snowy took the decision, winning the bout on points. You can see the fight for yourself HERE And the co-main event saw Jack Sampola crowned WKO B Class Northern Area Thai Boxing Champion after defeating a

tough Damien Heim. You can see the fight HERE During the interval Tom and Carla were presented with a check for £4000 as well as a canvas image and an incredible artist sketch of a photo of Nathan taken in Afghanistan. To say it was emotional would be an understatement. We spoke to the man behind the Nathan Cuthbertson Thai Boxing Memorial Championship Show… Welcome to NE Online Magazine, can you introduce yourself to our readers? My name is Dave Corrigan, I run Cuthy200 Thai Boxing academy. I’m also a veteran of the Parachute Regiment and have done 10 years with the North East Ambulance Service.

You are the man behind the Nathan Cuthbertson Thai Boxing Memorial show that was held at Rainton Meadows in November, what was the reason behind putting on the show? I’ve been involved in Muay Thai 30+ years, both in the army

and civi street. I served in 2 Para with Nathan’s dad Tom, without knowing. As a veteran paratrooper I was devastated for Tom and Carla, losing their 19 year old son in Afghanistan on June 8th 2008. I was involved in a tribute on Contender Promotions where I had 6 fighters on the show, that lead me to making a promise to myself that I would do a show 100% in memory of Nathan, with the Parachute Regiment and Royal Navy both involved (as both have serving members training Muay Thai ). With Ben Anthony Stephenson representing the Parachute Regiment and Jamie Mitchell representing Royal Navy Muay Thai. How emotional was it seeing it all come together, with a packed arena, incredible fights and of course having Nathan’s family there watching it all?

After the nightmare with lockdowns and two postponements, I finally agreed on November 20th, then the hard work started. I wanted a venue that would do Nathan and his parents proud, choosing Rainton Meadows Arena. Though I did hope that I hadn’t gone over the top with it being such a big venue. So to see the response was amazing, a virtual sell out, selling 40 tables and nearly 200 standing. I still can’t believe it. Unlike other shows, you put yours on to help raise money for “Support our Paras”, can you tell us more about the charity and what they do? The show from day one was charity based with the money going to Tom and Carla’s choices of charities. Tom and Carla’s charity, Cuthy Big Bike Ride, which is a bike ride done annually with over 250 cyclists

raising unbelievable amounts, which they donate to veteran’s charity’s, one of them being Support Our Paras, which is the Parachute Regiment’s official charity, supporting veteran and serving paratroopers for many reasons. Tom and Carla’s amazing charity work and fundraising in memory of their son was recognised at the highest order with them being made MBEs. It’s hard to believe that was your first show. What was the hardest part of putting it all together? The most fearful thing was the thought of failure, not enough gyms getting involved, or too many drop outs, even poor ticket sales. I wanted everything to go right for Tom and Carla to make it a night never forgotten for them. It was an amazing turn out, which the supporting clubs and fighters have to be thanked for.

The North East is full of talent when it comes to combat sports, how did you find it matching the fights? I prioritised my gyms fighters, all novices, matching them a year in advance of the show, then getting the parachute Regiment & Royal Navy matched which was very important. Then the supporting gyms involved were amazing, especially Daz Collins of Warrior Muay Thai (a veteran paratrooper), who was amazing in his support. Tell us three random facts about yourself? I am veteran paratrooper. I run my own Thai Boxing gym. I run my own medical team supporting events.

A lot of people all came together to not only honour Nathan, but to honour all of our fallen heroes, which made the full show a real emotional event from start to finish. You really should feel proud for not only making it all

happen, but making the event such a success. What has the feedback been like now that the dust has all settled? The feedback has been amazing from all of the clubs involved as we as from Nathan’s family. Raising £4000 for both charities’ is something which I’m really proud of. All of this has made me decide to make it an annual event.

Was this a one off event or just the beginning, can we expect to see more events in the future? This is definitely the beginning. The sponsors were amazing supporting the show, we already have sponsors on board for next year’s show. (all sponsors are welcome haha). A big shout goes out to Trev Arnell from Teesside Parachute Regimental Association and JCM sponsoring the trophies and memorial belt. Is there anything you would like to add? A big thank you to Jaron Sharples from Jaron Sharples Images for sponsorship of the t-shirts and the amazing photography (used in the feature), Dell Mann for the help and Videography, with all of the fights available on Fightnightlive-tv Thank you for taking the time to chat with us about such an amazing show and the great cause behind it.

@ Hip Hippo Ray 12

www.bstfabrics.co.uk

From Paris, With Love

A queen of soul, or a villain of the square, Albert Square that is? Well, for Mica Paris, 2021 has seen her to be both of those, although she’s the former of those (queen of soul), and has been for some time now. As for the latter, being a villain on a soap, in the latter part of the year, would see her join the cast of Eastenders, as the soap villain, Ellie Nixon. And now, she’s following that up rather quickly, with a December tour, taking in a handful of gigs,

very much whetting the appetite for much for more to come. “I’m always busy, which is fabulous, and I will always try my hand at anything,” beamed Mica, infectiously. “Appearing in Eastenders, it was great, and there was definitely a mutual admiration present. “But yes, it was very different to what I expected it to be, and a very, family-like environment. “That’s even more so when you don’t know how you’ll be perceived, but I’ve always been

the goody-two shoes (character), well, in musical theatre anyway. “I actually that gig prior to the first lockdown (in early 2020), so it’s been a while. “I’ve done the gospel documentary since then as well, so only really stopped for maybe a few weeks.” Forever busy, Mica has been on the go since the eighties, she still finds copious amounts of time for her daughters, Monet, and Russia-Mae, whilst her debut album, So Good, was released as

far back as 1988. From then, until now, the most recent offering from Mica, Gospel, dropped last year, the same year in which she would be awarded an MBE for her services to music, entertainment, and charity. “I never know as to where I’m going to be next,” giggles Mica. “But that’s just me, who I am, and just a (continuous) bucketlist thing for me to do. “So, it’s nice to be three decades in, and still be relevant; I mean look, when I started out, they were looking around for a new Whitney (Houston), and it was all about your real sales then as well. “Take your rock stars for example, they never really stop, and that’s a great thing. “You have to be continually touring, you can never stop doing that.” Speaking of what’s happening next for the queen of gospel, there’s an end of year tour to look forward to, where she’ll be promoting her last album, then there’s also a lengthy tour with Mick Hucknall and Simply Red in the New Year (17 UK dates between February 2-24), along with some new music to boot. Mica did, after all, say that she was always busy. “I’ve done this tour as people have been begging me too, and especially because of the Gospel album,” stated Mica.

“If you keep it small. As I’ve done with this, then it works (especially with current restrictions). “Even though I have the Motown, I’m already working on

that next record, and the most beautiful thing is, people have realised what’s important now “People are wanting more music in their lives. “And as for Simply Red, well I toured America with them about thirty years ago. “Mick’s not changed one bit either, and here we are, yet again.” Mica Paris will appear at The Fire Station, Sunderland, as part of her ‘End of Year Tour,’ on Wednesday 15 December, tickets available from https://sunderlandculture. org.uk/events/mica-paris/ whilst you can keep up-to-date via her Twitter https://twitter. com/MicaParisSoul and website https://www.micaparis.com/

Hi Colin, welcome to NE, can

David here from Beyond. So I’ve just found out that my Charity Single (in aid of the Batten Disease Family Association) which is A double A-side “Stay The Same” & “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” With Santa Ste has been announced as one of 11 official contenders in the race to the Christmas No1 in the top 100 Official UK Charts this year along side Ed Sheeran & Elton John, Adele, Abba and Gary Barlow! The Single is out now digitally and on limited edition CD this week. The more steams, downloads and CD’s purchased the better! Getting into the top 40 will be hard enough never mind number 1!

It would be amazing if we could get the single into the main charts this year and raise awareness of Batten Disease which is a terminal illness in very young children. If I could ask you all a massive favour and if you wouldn’t mind over the next few weeks streaming, downloading and buying a copy of the CD so we can get this into the charts. Its a bit of fun but for a serious cause and why shouldn’t the Christmas Charts have something different for a change? Could you imagine a Geordie Record store owner getting a Christmas No1!!! Totally overwhelmed with the support from everyone so far and from the Official UK Charts.

All profits will go to the charity... CD available from: www.beyondvinyl.co.uk or www. beyondrecords.uk/ Click HERE to Stream Also i’m excited to announce the Now or Whenever in-store run for release week in January: Fred, Jed, a guitar, keyboard, albums, signatures, selfies, questions, answers, hopes, regrets. And an exclusive splatter vinyl if that’s your thing. Pre order now to get a free ticket to Spector’s performance at Beyond Vinyl on 10th January 2022: https://beyondvinyl. co.uk/product/spector-now-orwhenever/

[ne 2021 artist of the Year]

[Hayley McKay] Darlington Songbird, Hayley McKay, Continues To Be That Soaring Angel In what is her final showing as the NE Online Magazine Artist of the Year, one that has been, considering the climate we still experience, we caught up with Darlington songbird, Hayley McKay, in what is her home from home, the Music Forum Centre, Darlington For myself, right before I got to know Hayley, I was studying journalism programmes at the nearby Darlington College, mere minutes away from the Forum, in fact I would walk past the venue at least twice a year, for two years. Looking back, now, I’m ashamed

to say that the Forum never registered with me, although in my defence, focus was elsewhere – and yes, I did apologise to Alison (the Forum’s esteemed Director), Hayley’s mother, for this mishap. Since then, during the late-2010s, myself and Hayley have become, I’d like to say, friends, and it’s always good to be able to catch up with, even more so in person. Therefore, for her last feature of the year, I headed over to Darlington, on a cold, late-November afternoon, to visit her at the Forum, and she would be, as always, an absolute delight. Upon arrival, Hayley proceeded to show off her bulging portfolio

that she’d brought with her – this young lady has some catalogue of work behind her and, for one still so young, is often maybe overlooked – I know it still blows my mind on occasion. There’s news clippings aplenty, including by yours truly, photographs, and montages alike, even certificates accumulated of all that she has accomplished. It was a pretty packed portfolio to say the least, and one with which I felt honoured to cast my eyes over, whilst consuming a hot brew, as we chatted all things life, and music. She’s been having plenty of fun lately as well, what with every-

thing slowly opening back up that little bit more; Hayley has found herself pretty much a musician in demand, she saying that: “The Darlington Christmas Light

switch-on was pretty unbelievable. “There had to be thousands of people there and I got to perform three songs, two of which were my originals, and the other was

the Shakin’ Stevens classic, ‘Merry Christmas Everyone.’ “For me though, it was just nice to be able to perform a hometown gig, and in front of people that’s maybe not seen, or even heard, myself and my music, before. “It was all so surreal though, and definitely became the highlight of the year for me.” Although this year, like the one before, has seen minimal in the way of live performances, Hayley, like the majority of her musical counterparts, took to performing in an online setting, leading to gigs rolling in over the latter months of the year. As well as performing her hometown Christmas Lights show, Hayley can also count performances at Barnes Park (Sunderland), Middlesbrough FC’s fan zone, the 229 Club (London) and the BCMA Showcase (London) as well as her most recent outing, this past week, at the Globe (Newcastle). At the BCMAs, Hayley was attending as a nominee for the UK Song of the Year award, for hr track, ‘Wild West,’ and she hopes that, her finish to the year now concluding, can maybe prove to be a catalyst for the one in which is

just around the corner, one which is already seeing dates added to the diary. “I’m really quite pleased as to where my music, over the past year or so, have got to,” gleamed Hayley. “To be shortlisted for awards is amazing, and I’m really grateful to all those who voted for me. “Even more happy as you never are sure what will happen. “Last year though, I was actually preparing for the C2C (Country 2 Country), somewhere which has been a real ambition to perform, and I was scheduled for a couple of stages. “I’m hoping I can do that next year now, but yes, the past few years

have actually been amazing really, and afforded the time for me to be more creative.” In affording opportunities to home her writing skills, looking at differing, musical styles, and to work with other musicians, Hayley has built herself a back-catalogue of music which will keep her in the public eye for the foreseeable at least, and with minimal effort. Working with the likes of Bill DiLuigi, Claire Hamell, Judd Freedman et al, has given the Darlington songstress renewed vigour, strengthened her confidence, along with the demeanour of her online performances. “The livestreaming, it was really good for me,” admitted Hayley.

“It opened myself, and my music, up to a wider audience, and I also did some charitable performances for Breathe Easy, and Fairway Fife. “To be able to perform music for people of different backgrounds, to be able to help communities, has been truly amazing, it really has.” And there’s the burning desire that roars for Ireland. It is a country where she has garnered much support, and one which sees it increase exponentially, be that with television, or radio. “Yes, it looks like I’m going to Ireland next year,” adds Hayley. “I’ll be at the Hot Country TV awards so Im looking at performing a few gigs around that, in

Cavan. “Both they, and of course RTE, have been great in their support of my music, playing my videos, conducting live interviews, and the like. “Some of those were quite nervewracking for me, but, once I started, I really enjoyed them. “So yes, all-in-all, I’m looking forward to what next year has to offer me, including, I hope, performing

at festivals again, some country nights at the Forum, gigging, and of course, writing and releasing more music.” Keep up to date with all things Hayley McKay via her Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hayleymckaymusic/ Twitter https:// twitter.com/mckay_hayley Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ hayleymckaymusic/?hl=en and website https://www.hayleymckay.

co.uk/ Credit for Darlington Lights Images – Scott Akoz

[ne 2021 artist of the Year] 29

ROMESH RANGANATHAN COMES TO THE CITY HALL FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2019 WITH A BRAND NEW SHOW TICKETS ON SALE 10AM FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2018 Romesh Ranganathan is back with a brand-new show, The Cynic’s Mixtape, and it’s his most brutally honest show yet. Fresh from The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, A League Of Their Own and Judge Romesh, he’s putting showbiz aside to deliver a carefully-curated

selection of all the things he has found unacceptable since his last tour, including why trying to save the environment is a scam, why none of us are truly free, and his suspicion that his wife is using gluten intolerance to avoid sleeping with him. Romesh’s cynicism has become his trademark, but since being nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2013 Edinburgh Comedy Awards this deadpan humour has become one of Britain’s most respected and popular comics. Now, though, it’s time for the

Asian Provocateur to return to his stand-up roots for a while – there’s things he needs to point out, discuss and have a good moan about. Care to join him? Show drops 2019, don’t miss it. Tickets for Romesh Ranganathan are on sale Fri 28 Sep from 10am and are £26.50. Tickets can be purchased online at www. theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge)

LOCK & GRAY OFF TO THE USA

“IT'S CHRISTMAAAAAAAAS“

“Slade aren’t just for Christmas, they’re for life.” Does a song really make an artist, or a band? Well, in the case of those eternal rockers, Slade, you’d be forgiven for thinking so, they perhaps being best known for their stomping, festive offering, ‘Merry Christmas Everyone.’ But Slade, they’ve actually had an impressive six, number one hit singles, and sixteen top ten singles, spanning the mid-sixties, through to the present day. Co-founded back in 1966, yes, the year in which England won their solitary, World Cup, by Noddy Holder, Dave Hill, Dan Powell and Jim Lea, with only Hill surviving

the original line-up, Holder and Lea being present until ’92, and Powell until last year. They’ve carried on regardless though, and, still tripping the light fantastic, Slade illuminate stages everywhere they go with those iconic of tunes. There’s been tunes like their first number one, Coz I Luv You (1971), Cum On Feel the Noize (1972), and of course, their last chart-topper, and ‘that, festive offering (1973). Now though, in looking back on what is close to sixty years of Slade, one of the founding fathers, Dave Hill, now joined by the trio of John Berry, Russell Keefe, and Alex Bines, and alongside his own,

solo projects, continue to delight. “This has been the longest period I’ve had off,” explained Dave, thinking of the past couple of years. “These two years, in just being at home, I’ve kept myself busy just writing a new solo album. “But I’ve really missed all the gigging.” Under the guidance of Bryan Chandler, better known as ‘Chas’ Chandler, he who was the original bassist of the Newcastle band, the Animals, as well as having managed the legendary rock artist, Jimi Hendrix; Slade still had to go out there, and ‘make it.’ Once that debut single, Get Down and Get With It, dropped during

’71, it quickly became about the momentum, their momentum. “We still had to work at it, all of it”< added Dave. “We were up and down the country, but it was a truly wonderful journey. “We made a good album, got a number one hit, but you have to make another, and another. ”But we had a great manager, and producer, in Chas Chandler, who was a really good bloke, he really

was. “That first number one though, that’s a definite highlight as well as performing those big festivals, the comebacks, and that Reading Festival. “We did that one because, at the time, Ozzy Osbourne wasn’t ready, so with us doing it, it put us back in the public eye, during the eighties.” Whether it’s solo music, or Slade music, Dave is well-aware of the

ever-changing music industry, after all, come their UK tour this December, they’ll have performed is seven, different decades (60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s, 10s, and 20s), whilst being able to tour Europe, Asia, and America, during that illustrious career. “It’s great being remembered, and everyone knows all the songs,” admits Dave. “But Slade aren’t just for Christmas, they’re for life.

“That song though, it was a really great idea at the time. “A relation told us that nobody writes proper Christmas songs anyway. “And Noddy, he already had a lyrical idea, and that was then changed for the song. “When we put it together, we were actually in New York, in 100 degrees heat. “John Lennon had studio time booked but didn’t want it anymore, so we took the week, in the July, and that was it really. “Back then though we realise as to how powerful that song would be. “It was a song that lifted the nation, got the people to gather together again.” December though, it’s always a special time for family, for music fans, and of course for Slade. And this December, as 2021 comes crashing to a close, those boys from Slade will put on three weeks of touring, eleven dates, between 3 and 23 December, with

Dave finishing off saying that: “Touring, it’s getting back out on the road again. “We all miss seeing each other though. “We have the songs, the music, so it’s nice to be able to bring that back again, in the hope that things can, and will, get better. “We want to be able to bring the joy; we’ll be there, and we’ll be ready to rock.” Dave Hill, and the boys from Slade, finish their tour in Newcastle, at the O2 Academy, on Thurs-

day 23 December, tickets available from https://www.seetickets.com/ event/slade/o2-academy-newcastle/1578428 Keep up-to-date with all things Slade via their Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/Sladeforlife/ and website https://slade.tmstor. es/

NERG is the biggest retro gaming event in the North East, held at Gateshead Stadium over the course of 2 days, this event is as big as it gets for retro gamers or just the big kids re-living their youth playing the games they used to play, after all, they don’t make them like they used to. 2017 will be the fifth year of NERG and it will be a big one. With 100 video arcade machines, 35 pinball machines and 60 consoles and computers this really is an event you do not want to miss!. The event is held over the weekend of 1st & 2nd of July. Entrance is £15 per day or £25 for the full weekend. Children aged 5-13 years can also get in for only £10 on the Sunday. All the machines are set to free play so once you pay the admission fee, it’s free gaming all day., so no need for those pockets full of change. CLICK HERE TO TICKETS ONLINE.

PURCHASE

or you can pay on the day if the event hasn’t sold out. More details can be found at w w w.northeastretrogaming. com Machines are announced on a regular basis through the social feeds so make sure you keep checking to see what games will

be there, though with so many we are sure your favourites will be there. CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK For Twitter - @NERGOfficial

Elizabeth Liddle the soulful dreams of a northern songbird Flashback to the mid-November, 2019, and an article in a local newspaper which portrays a number of local artists who use specific social media platforms for the promotion of their music. Personally, and always on the lookout for new music, new musicians, the stars of the future, something beautiful yet maybe even different, the mind was firmly averted towards that of a County Durham artist, Elizabeth Liddle. Individuals in the industry, at home, and abroad, have always advised to look out for something, someone new, unique, talented, and Miss Liddle, now a 22-yearold star in the making, and who

is set to release her second single in the run-up to Christmas, fits that remit, in abundance and to be honest, much more indeed.

Back then, in the article, Elizabeth was described as being: “Soulful Elizabeth Liddle sings heartfelt lyrics with a voice that packs a fervent punch,” and for its part, that’s true, but she is also so much more than that, with talent blossoming beyond those youthful years. During the past two years of chaos, not only have we kept in touch, but that talent in which she possesses has blossomed, grown, and, as she finishes 2021, she’s set to release her second single, adding that of ‘Waiting On The Next One’ to the stunning, summer debut, ‘Lonely.’ Granted it’s taken Elizabeth some time to get to this specific point, but you can understand, even relate, to the reasoning why. “It was a case of I was building my confidence to putting something

out just myself,” explained Elizabeth. “I’m happy though, happy with what’s happening right now, and

it’s nice to have all these listeners, my followers, in which I have now.” But where did it all begin for the

young musician with the world firmly at her feet, and the stars in the ivories in which she tinkles (she’s a pianist). “When I finally released ‘Lonely,’ it’s something that was actually written a couple of years ago, but we held onto it, because of what’s gone on the past few years. “I am happy though, that I waited, and restarted this year, and in my eyes, that’s actually been a lot better for me.” Drawing inspiration from that of Joni Mitchell (of course, you can actually visualise it), Carole King, Carly Simon, and more recently the likes of Taylor Swift and Adele. Their music, it’s something that reverberates through the music in which is stunningly portrayed by Elizabeth, and what has inspired her through those early years of her musical journey to date. “I started off, as a young child, playing the guitar,” admitted Elizabeth. “But I never did quite get a hold of

it,” she giggled,” but then my old primary school teacher offered me one of their old pianos, and I’ve not looked back. “I still have it, to this day, and still play it as well. “I’m self-taught if I’m honest, playing music from a Taylor Swift songbook; I get my best ideas though when I’m playing that piano, and it’s very much like a comfort blanket for me really. “As for Taylor Swift, I loved her when I was younger,” which isn’t that far back when Elizabeth is only just in her early twenties, “and I just love country music; a lot of her songs though, were on the piano, so that’s really helped. “She’s a great, amazing talent.” Those influences, those classic, female artists of the seventies, are exactly what Elizabeth’s music is about, even though she does portray her own, unique styles, her own, delightful, manner. That style has certainly been enhanced further over the past two years, current situations afford-

ing Elizabeth, and others in the industry, the opportunity to look at other artists, peruse a variety of sounds not usually, readily available. A highlight over the past few years though was with the north-easts’ most famous of folk rockers, the

legendary Lindisfarne. Formed in the late sixties, by Alan Hull (1945-1995), Rod Clements, Ray Jackson, Ray Laidlaw and Simon Cowe, they are well known for tracks such as Lady Eleanor (1970), Meet Me On The Corner (1971), Fog On The Tyne (1972)

and Run For Home (1975). Still performing to this day, the band have been the subject of a recent, BBD documentary, The Alan Hull Story, fronted by another Geordie, Sam Fender. “I was contacted by Dan Prince about a project he was working on at the time,” continued Elizabeth. “It was a little project, and I was given a list of arrangements in which to choose a piece from. “I was immediately drawn to the Lindisfarne track, Meet Me On The Corner. “It led to my meeting Rod (Clements), he’s such a nice person, very knowledgeable, informative, about music, and life itself. “I got so much from doing that project, and I just didn’t realise as to what was going to happen with it, none of us did, but I’m glad of it.” Now though, as the world starts to open, slowly but surely, so does Elizabeth’s run for stardom, and she’ll making a seriously good go of it – we’ll make sure of that.

The second half of 2021 alone has already seen much accomplished, and, 2022 promises much more – Elizabeth’s debut single was dropped in late August ’21, there’s been a first, sell-out performance at Independent Sunderland, and, we head through the festive

season, the stunning songstress is, most certainly, Waiting On The Next One. There’s dreams as well, life would be nothing without dreams, so how is it going for the pianist with the angelic voice? “Lonely, that was written, worked on, and re-written and re-recorded before it was eventually released (with Ginger Music Production),” beamed Elizabeth. “It felt so right doing it this year, and I think I’d have regretted releasing it sooner – I don’t rush things, I tend to sit on them for a little while first. “But I know what the industry is like as well, and I know that my success, it won’t happen overnight, I understand that. “Right now though, everything is inspired by the seventies, a bit like Adele really, and what she does. “That’s what influences me, and I love that kind of singer-songwriter vibe that comes with it. “As for the sold-out gig, at Independent, it was a truly amazing

feeling and I never, never expected that. “I was quite shocked, which is a nice feeling to have here, and I performed mainly all originals except for one track, Carole King’s ‘So Far Away’ (1971, Tapestry), a song which continually inspires me.” As for that dream of hers, one of no doubt many and which can be achieved when she puts her beautiful, soulful mind to it, and when considering the type of music she does perform, then there’s only thing for it really. “Playing the grand piano, at somewhere like Sage Gateshead,”

Elizabeth offers, enthusiastically. “When I was at college I recall having lessons at that beautiful venue. “And, with the end of year shows, where I’d actually perform Lonely, in front of family and friends; what an absolutely incredible, lovely experience.” Elizabeth Liddle’s first, big gig of 2022, see her head to Bobiks Newcastle, on 4 February, with tickets available now from https://www. skiddle.com/whats-on/Newcastleon-Tyne/Bobik’s/Elizabeth-Liddle/35957859/ Her new single, Waiting On The Next One, is available everywhere

from 10 December, and you can keep up-to-date with all things Elizabeth Liddle via her Facebook https://www.facebook.com/eelizabethmusic Twitter https://twitter. com/eelizabethmusic and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ elizabethliddlemusic/

PURCHASE

be there, though with so many we are sure your favourites will be there. CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK For Twitter - @NERGOfficial

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“The funniest, cleverest, most imaginative and original television I have seen” - The Times “Lets viewers experience terror, laughter, sadness and the thrill of a well-told story” - New York Times Are you ready to step through the door marked No. 9? After a sell-out show at London’s Barbican Hall, Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith are delighted to announce that they are taking ‘An Evening Inside No. 9’ on tour. Tickets for the 13 date tour which kicks off at Liverpool’s Auditorium on December 6 and arrives at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday, December 16 will go on general sale at 10am on Friday, November 19. Steve and Reece will be interviewed on stage by Mark Salisbury, author of the newly published book ‘The Insider’s Guide to Inside No. 9’, for an informative and hilarious guide to the creation of their BAFTA award-winning comedy anthology.

They will be sharing behind-thescenes stories and shocking secrets

from some of their most memorable episodes. There may be singing. And dancing.

anywhere other than in front of the fridge, so we are looking forward to it.

And as the gents respond to fan questions, every night will be completely unique!

“We’ll try and answer any questions you may have, including ‘Why are some of my shirt buttons cracked directly in half?’ So it promises to be a night to remember.

On the announcement, Steve and Reece, said: “We have been talked into leaving our houses and touring the country to see you all in person. “It’s been a while since we went

“If we can make this effort, so can you. We look forward to welcoming you ‘Inside No.9’. Or do we? (That’s the twist at the end).”

With rare access to the imaginations of these legendary and darkly funny creators, this is the definitive event for all fans of Pemberton and Shearsmith who brought us so many laughs with The League of Gentlemen, Psychoville, and Inside No 9. A preChristmas treat you won’t want to miss. Inside No. 9 with Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith is at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday December 16. Tickets are available via www. middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk or 01642 729 729. CHRIS RAMSEY FRI 25 FEBRUARY 2022 COMEDY Critically acclaimed comedian Chris Ramsey is hitting the road for his biggest ever stand-up tour in 2021. Having filled venues across the country he’ll take his brand-new show, 20/20 around the UK next year. Alongside his wife Rosie, Chris co-host’s the no.1 hit podcast shagged. Married. Annoyed. which has been downloaded a phenomenal 4.5 million times. Recently seen hosting two series’ of his very own TV show The Chris Ramsey Show and Chris Ramsey’s Stand up Central (both on Comedy Central), he has also been a regular face on many major comedy shows including Celebrity Juice (ITV2), 8 out of 10 Cats (C4), Live at the Comedy Store (Comedy Central) and Virtually Famous (E4) to name a few.

Sara Pascoe is back with a brand new stand-up show, Success Story, and tickets are on sale now! Sara decided she wanted to be famous at 14 years old. Since then, she has auditioned for Barrymore, scared Pete Burns and ruined Hugh Grant’s birthday – but look at her now… Please look, she needs you to look. And clap. And laugh. And then clap again. 📅 See Success Story at Middles-

brough Town Hall on Saturday 28 January 2023 at 7.30pm. There will be a BSL interpreter positioned on the left side of the stage for this performance. If you require a Personal Assistant ticket, please contact the Box Office directly to book on Friday from 10am on 01642 729 729. Here’s your link to find out more 👉 https://bit.ly/MTH_SaraPascoe

Tickets are available via www. middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk or 01642 729 729..

We have double the fun now as we have teamed up with Cineworld Boldon and the new Cineworld Dalton Park to give you a quick run down on a few films that are coming soon and really have got us excited. Plus make sure you check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with their daily competitions and updates. Boldon and Dalton Park

Spider-Man: No Way Home 15 December 2021 Running time: 148 minutes For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero is unmasked and no longer able to separate his normal life from the high-stakes of being a Super Hero. When he asks for help from Doctor Strange the stakes become even more dangerous, forcing him to discover what it truly means to be Spider-Man. Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Jon Favreau, Jamie Foxx, Tom

Holland, Marisa Tomei, Zendaya , Jacob Batalon, Tony Revolori Director: Jon Watts

CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS AND WATCH THE TRAILER

As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and 8 out of 10 Cats you are now starring in the North East based sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about? - My mate and fellow comedian Jason Cook decided to write a sitcom about the town he was from, Hebburn, and he actually wrote me a little side part which he named after me. But when it came to being made the BBC asked me to read for the main character, and when I got it, Jason took the part that he’d written for me! It came about so gradually that I didn’t really realise the enormity of being lead role in a BBC2 sitcom until I saw the advert on TV. I nearly passed out. How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series! You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

The King’s Man 26 December 2021 Running time: 131 minutes

As a collection of history’s worst tyrants and criminal masterminds gather to plot a war to wipe out millions, one man must race against time to stop them. Discover the origins of the very first independent intelligence agency in The King’s Man. The King’s Man is directed by Matthew Vaughn and stars Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander, Harris Dickinson, Daniel Brühl, with Djimon Hounsou, and Charles Dance. Matthew Vaughn, David Reid, and Adam Bohling are the producers, and Mark Millar, Dave Gibbons, Stephen Marks, Claudia Vaughn, and Ralph Fiennes serve as executive producers. The

King‘s Man is based on the comic book “The Secret Service” by Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons, and the story is by Matthew Vaughn and the screenplay is by Matthew Vaughn & Karl Gajdusek.

Brühl, Charles Dance, Ralph Fiennes, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander, Djimon Hounsou, Rhys Ifans, Harris Dickinson Director: Matthew Vaughn

Cast: Gemma Arterton, Daniel

CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS AND WATCH THE TRAILER

Scream 14 January 2022 Running time: 114 minutes Twenty-five years after a streak of brutal murders shocked the quiet town of Woodsboro, a new killer has donned the Ghostface mask and begins targeting a group of teenagers to resurrect secrets from the town’s deadly past. Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”), Courteney Cox (“Gale Weathers”) and David Arquette (“Dewey Riley”) return to their iconic roles in Scream alongside Melissa Barrera, Kyle Gallner, Mason Gooding, Mikey Madison, Dylan Minnette, Jenna Ortega, Jack Quaid, Marley Shelton, Jasmin Savoy Brown, and Sonia Ammar.

Cast: David Arquette, Neve Campbell, Kyle Gallner, Marley Shelton, Dylan Minnette, Jack Quaid, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Courteney Cox, Jenna Ortega, Melissa

Barrera, Mason Gooding, Mikey Madison, Sonia Ammar Director: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS

Sing 2 28 January 2022

them for the opening of a new show.

Running time: 100 minutes

Cast: Bobby Cannavale, Scarlett Johansson, Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Taron Egerton, Nick Kroll, Letitia Wright,

Buster Moon and his friends must persuade reclusive rock star Clay Calloway to join

Eric André, Halsey , Bono , Pharrell Williams, Chelsea Peretti, Tori Kelly Director: Garth Jennings CLICK TO BOOK TICKETS AND WATCH THE TRAILRT

Unlimited Card Love Cinema. Join the club - £17.90 a month. You will receive... Preferential Discounts Unlimited members get 10% off all food and drink bought in-cinema at any time of day, every day!* Plus, you’ll also receive discounts for all nonfilm screenings such as Live Opera in HD, Live National Theatre, Live sport in 3D and live gigs etc. (All discounts subject to terms) Get access to Exclusive advance screenings

As an Unlimited member, you can be among the first to see great movies at our special screenings. Just keep an eye on our Unlimited newsletter for your invitation. Discounted Meals & Shopping Unlimited members benefit from exclusive deals set up by their local cinema*. These offers vary from cinema to cinema, but are a great way to save pennies. (All deals are subject to terms) *Until further notice

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Driving scheme for 10-17 year olds launches at new Stockton-onTees venue - Innovative lessons reduce accident rates for newly qualified drivers by more than a half - Youngsters drive a real car around a specially created road system - Young Driver will open at Sedgefield Racecourse on 11th December A specialist driver training scheme, which allows 10-17 year olds to get behind the wheel in a bid to create a new generation of safer drivers, is launching at a new County Durham venue. Young Driver will open at Sedgefield Racecourse on Saturday 11th December, when the car park will be transformed into a realistic road system so youngsters can work on a range of driving skills and manoeuvres. Events will then take place on selected weekend dates throughout the year. The location is in addition to the scheme’s Darlington’s Mowden Park RFC base, which is temporarily unavailable due to the venue

being used as a Covid vaccination centre. Young Driver is the UK’s largest provider of pre-17 driving lessons, having delivered over 1,000,000 lessons at more than 70 venues across the UK. Youngsters have lessons in new, dual controlled Vauxhall Corsa SE Premium, with highly qualified approved driving instructors. A road system is created, with traffic signs, roundabouts and junctions, along with special areas to practice manoeuvres such as steering control and parking. The emphasis of the lessons is

on safety and fun and encouraging youngsters to consider how to drive responsibly, giving them time to perfect driving skills such as gear changes, braking and steering without the pressures of public roads. Shockingly, one in five newly qualified drivers crashes within six months of passing their test. Only eight per cent of drivers are aged 17 – 24 and yet they account for a worrying 30 per cent of people who are killed in cars every year. But for those who have taken a Young Driver course, the rate of accidents in that worrying first six months drops by more than a half,

to fewer than one in ten.

ously.”

Sue Waterfield, head of marketing at Young Driver, said: “We are really excited to be launching at Sedgefield Racecourse. We’ve been unable to run the last few events we had planned at Darlington, so it’s great we can get this up and running as soon as possible for people in the area. The site will provide plenty of opportunities for youngsters to try out lots of different driving skills and techniques, whether they’re a beginner or have already had a few lessons at another of our venues.

Driving tuition is available for disabled youngsters. Thirty or sixty-minute lessons must be booked in advance and prices start from £44.99. Safety procedures are currently in place to protect both pupils and instructors, including the wearing

of masks, social distancing and regular hand and vehicle sanitisation. Should a Young Driver lesson need to be cancelled due to illness, self-isolation or lockdown, it can be rebooked for a later date. For more information visit www. youngdriver.com or call 0333 577 9010.

“Clearly something needs to be done to tackle the seriously high accident rates of our young drivers. Training drivers over a longer period of time allows youngsters to have a solid understanding of how to drive a car before they get anywhere near a real road. But the lessons are also lots of fun and they’re a great general confidence boost for teens and pre-teens, who take the responsibility very seri-

On Thursday 10th February 2022, get ready as we spice up your life, taking you back for good and hit you one more time with the ultimate 90’s party night out! The music of a generation brought to life with fantastic vocals, genius costumes and of course; all the

dance moves you know and love. From Take That to Oasis, Spice Girls to Supergrass get ready for this non-stop 90’s extravaganza as we set you free and pump up the jam with songs by, Britney Spears, Ricky Martin, The Vengaboys, Bryan Adams, Boyzone, Shania

Twain, Aqua, Lou Bega, Eternal, Bewitched, Wet Wet Wet, Ace of Base, 2 Unlimited, S Club 7, Gina G, Pulp, Blur, Shampoo, and many more. TICKETS ON SALE TUESDAY 7th DECEMBER 2021 10AM https://www.playhousewhitleybay. co.uk/

COMING TO

The Sherlocks have announced their UK headline tour, taking place in February and March 2022. Bolton-upon-Dearne’s The Sherlocks were certainly a slow-burn overnight sensation. Ascending swiftly from stints in working men’s clubs to rammed, buzzing and riotous gigs on the nearby Sheffield scene, they were embraced as the city’s next big guitar stars, set to launch the next wave of Sheffield alt-rock. Which they did: and as they stepped onto the NME/Radio 1 Stage at the Leeds leg of Reading & Leeds 2017, they announced to a rammed tent that their debut album Live For The Moment had, that very day, entered the UK albums chart at Number Six. However, just like every other band, The Sherlocks’ plans for 2020 were scuppered by coronavirus. Completing an initial low-key UK tour in early March to support their 2019 second album Under Your Sky, their further planned tours of America and the Far East were forced to be scrapped. And while the rest of the world was put on hold, The Sherlocks were undergoing a rebirth. Returning with a new line up and new ideas, the band are soon set to release their anticipated forthcoming album, World I Understand. As well as this, the four-piece are

currently touring the UK as part of their ‘Keep Our Independent Venues Alive’ tour – a run of shows across the UK’s most cherished independent venues to help support these spaces during their most challenging times. With the ammunition of new material under their belts, next year’s headline tour is not one to be missed. Kicking off in Blackpool on 4th February 2022 and ending in London on 12th March 2022, expect the group to bring the magnetism and swagger they are known for to audiences across the nation in the new year. “We can’t wait to get back out on tour with this new record”, says Kiaran Crook. “It is without a doubt our strongest one yet, and one that’s readymade for the live performances. It’s gonna’ be an absolute monster of a tour and we look forward to seeing you all at the front soon!”

Tickets are on sale this Friday from https://www.seetickets.com/ tour/the-sherlocks. UK TOUR DATES FEBRUARY + MARCH 2022 04/02/22 - Blackpool - Bootleg Social 05/02/22 - Leeds - O2 Academy 12/02/22 - Glasgow - St Lukes 18/02/22 - Liverpool - O2 Academy 19/02/22 - Hull - Asylum 25/02/22 - Sheffield - O2 Academy 26/02/22 - Newcastle - University 03/03/22 - Bristol - Marble Factory 04/03/22 - Southampton - Engine Rooms 10/03/22 - Brighton - Chalk 12/03/22 - London - O2 Academy Islington LISTEN TO LATEST SINGLE ‘WORLD I UNDERSTAND’ HERE

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ferent? A hypnotherapist is completely different to a hypnotist. A hypnotist is using the tool of hypnosis to induce a trance state to an audience or part of a magical stage show but they are not licensed to practice hypnotherapy. A hypnotherapist is a certified insured professional who uses hypnosis to help a client overcome mental or physical conditions.

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It will be a December to remember at the Dorman Museum this year as families can buckle up and get ready to enjoy a whole month of festive fun. Featuring a virtual reality sleigh simulator ride and a Christmas Extravaganza weekend, there is also a brand new exhibition that is a sensory, colourful delight, ideal for pre-school children and fans of Wow Said the Owl book.

In an exciting first for the museum and available throughout December, visitors can explore Santa’s secret headquarters on a virtual

reality Sleigh Simulator ride. Once aboard, the high definition, virtual reality headsets will transport sleigh riders straight into a fully immersive Christmas experience. Featuring 4D moving images and sound, the range of motions will simulate the sleigh soaring through the sky. A Christmas Extravaganza on the weekend of December 11 and 12 offers a bumper weekend of seasonal fun including an interactive elf town, a brand new exhibition, an indoor festive market and even more family-friendly activities.

An indoor market featuring small, independent businesses from across Teesside will be available throughout the Christmas Extravaganza. It’s an ideal opportunity to pick up an early Christmas gift, and visitors can enjoy a selection of handmade decorations, present ideas and tasty treats. The museum street will also be transformed into an Elf Town with interactive performers. The festive fun town also includes a toy shop, a fun-filled festive skills test at elf school and games in the elf club.

A crafty elf challenge and a trail around the museum completes the seasonal offer. The family craft workshop invites visitors to make decorations and gifts to take home, and the Christmas-themed trail will take explorers on a journey of discovery to track down treasure and interesting objects from the museum collection. A new exhibition will also be open based on the much-loved children’s book, Wow Said the Owl by Tim Hopgood. A sensory delight, the exhibition will be bright and colourful with lots to see and do for young families. It also features an animatronic owl who will be telling stories to little ones.

museum collection. Yoga Explorers is on Sunday December 19. There are two sessions to choose from running at 10am to 12.30pm and 1pm to 3.30pm and the activity is suitable for children aged five to 11. Admission to the museum is free. The Virtual Reality Sleigh Simulator ride is available throughout December. Tickets are £4 per person or £14 for a family of four and can be booked via www. ticketsource.co.uk/museum or by calling 01642 813781. The Christmas Trail is £1 per person and can be collected from the museum reception desk.

person and places can be booked at the museum reception desk upon arrival. Wow Said the Owl exhibition is open throughout December (Tuesday to Sunday) from 10am to 4pm and is included in the free admission to the Dorman Museum. Yoga Explorers is £10 per child and can be booked online via Eventbrite. Discover more festive events and family-friendly activities via We are Middlesbrough www. wearemiddlesbrough.com

The Crafty Elf workshop is £2 per

Children can also celebrate the festive season with a Christmasthemed Yoga Explorers. The session with Yoga Mike will explore how animals from different countries around the world celebrate the season. There will also be stories, songs, games and the opportunity to get up close with interesting objects from the

Cool Runnings Coming to Middlesbrough

Dudley ‘Tal’ Stokes, Captain of the original Jamaican Bobsleigh Winter Olympics team is in the process of setting up an Olympic base in Middlesbrough to train athletes, and encourage fitness routines within local communities, businesses, and schools.

many and with a massive fan base, the team’s trainer was played by Hollywood actor John Candy.

Captain of the original Jamaican Bobsleigh Winter Olympics team, Tal is a hugely motivating individual, and founding member of the Jamaica Bobsleigh Team, on which the hit Disney film ‘Cool Runnings’ was based.

Moreover, Tal continues to maintain the same optimum mental health and physical health because he believes they are closely linked. Full of inspiring mantras, the one he feels most strongly about is, ‘good physical health leads to good mental health’.

The team’s story featuring Tal as the principal character was immortalised in the film ‘Cool Runnings’. Considered an iconic film by

A four-time Olympian, Tal went from what many regarded as a chancer to contender in only six years.

Tal is now a performance Coach and works with members of the Jamaica Bobsleigh Team on how to achieve and maintain the peak performance state when needed

regardless of external environment. He wants to set up a base in Middlesbrough to continue work with Jamaica Bobsleigh athletes based in GB and to encourage fitness, offer inspiration and motivation within the community. Tal comments: “I regularly stay with former world bobsleigh champion Nicola Minichiello and her partner, fellow bobsleigh coach, Jo Manning. “I work with them extremely well, and we have come up with an idea to support aspiring athletes, and people who are looking to take that next big step into the world of Athletics.

“There are many outreach programs in the Teesside area doing very good work getting people moving, we hope we can add to this.

“The upside is tremendous, improved health outcomes and a lessening of the burden on health services will only make the Teesside area more competitive within

the UK and worldwide, honouring the legacy of Captain James Cook.” Middlesbrough native Jo Manning was a coach with Tal on the historic 2018 Jamaica Bobsleigh Team, the first time a female team from Jamaica had qualified for the Olympic Games: “Middlesbrough and all around Teesside is a great area with great people whom I know, if they can get the opportunity will excel. “We are trying to give them another way forward, there cannot be too many ways.” Tal is now in Middlesbrough working to implement the program.

The Harbour Lights in South Shields is turning heads with the incredible food being served, with everything from Fish and Chips to Tapas, with the freshest fish from North Shields Fish Quay. Or maybe a Pizza and a Pint is more your thing. Failing that why not try one of their Sunday dinners, whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed. They will also be open for food on Christmas Day, so save yourself the trouble of cooking and let them do it for you. As well as the food served daily, they also have live music and their Sunday Quiz to keep you all entertained. Check them out for yourself on facebook https://www.facebook.com/theharbourlightssouthshields

NE Online Magazine Issue 54 - It's Christmaaaaaaaas

Articles inside

Cool Runnings Comes to Boro

Dorman Museum

Elizabeth Liddle

Middlesbrough Town Hall

David McGovern & Santa Ste

NE AOTY 2021 Hayley McKay

Nathan Cuthbertson Memorial Show

Slade’s Dave Hill

Vauxhall Young Driver

Cineworld Round-Up