NE Online Magazine Issue 51 - Sweet Music With Elena Larkin 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 . L o c kd o w n i s n e a r l y o v e r, w i t h s h o p s , bars, gyms and more opening up as of next week it means things are s t a r t i n g t o l o o k u p . We h a v e s o m e g r e a t a d v e r t s fo r u p c o m i n g g i g s fe a t u r i n g s o m e t o p N o r t h E a s t t a l e n t s o i f t h i n g s ke e p g o i n g t h e w a y t h e y are then we’ll hopefully have some great content in the June edition. 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 Cass King P14 Hannah Robinson P21 Mosque’s Fight Against Covid Vaccine “Fake News” P24 Lee’s Custom Woodwork P32 NE AOTY 2021 Hayley McKay P42 BST Fabrics In The Spotlight P51 National Business Women’s Awards P56 Playhouse Whitley Bay P63 Chart Topping David McGovern P66 Northern Threads P70 Save The High Street P75 WHO Do You Love More Than A Parmo? 5

BST Fabrics is based in South Shields and is without a doubt the go to place for all things fabric and haberdashery. They have amassed a fantastic online following over the years on social media, mainly Facebook, due to their crazy and honest facebook lives where pretty much anything could happen…and often does. They also run lots of different competitions to get their customers involved and able to show off their crafting skills, like the recent iliv Better Cotton Initiative competition where BST challenged their customers to use any of the iliv BCI range to make something special, with the best creation netting the creator some fantastic prizes, including a feature in NE, so without further ado, let me introduce you to the WINNER of the iliv BCI Competition…Joana Santos Hi Joana, welcome to NE, can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hi, I’m Joana! I’m 31 and I’m originally from Portugal but I’ve been living in Northamptonshire for the past 6 years. Congratulations are in order as you are the winner of BST Fabrics ILIV BCI Creator Competition; tell us how you came to be involved

in this? I’m part of the BST Facebook groups where I go to for handy tips and useful sewing advice. There was a post regarding this competition and the fabric looked really pretty so I thought I’d give it a try.

You created a stunning bag that would not look out of place in any designer shop, what is the kind of process you go through in making a bag like this, did you design it, what made you choose the fabrics you did? Thank you! This was a bag

pattern I’ve wanted to try for a while but never seemed to get a combination of fabrics and hardware that looked good together. I actually ordered the BCI fabric with something totally different in mind but when it arrived I thought it would look perfect as a bag. How long does it take to make a bag like that from start to finish? It can take several days sometimes as I only sew in my spare time, but this one was relatively quick as I was so eager to see the finished product. It still took me a couple of days. The competition was to create something using any of the fabrics from the ILIV Better Cotton Initiative rage, how did you find the fabric to work with, and is it something you would use again in future projects? A quick browse on the BST website was all it took, I was undecided between some of the colours, so now that I’ve seen how lovely it is to work with I’ll have to go back and get the others 😂 I’ll definitely use it again, it is great quality.

A lot of people think of that fabric as one for curtains and upholstery only, but it can in

fact be used for anything really, from clothing to bags, it is quite versatile. So now that you have used it what advice or tips can you give to someone that might be thinking of using that fabric for a project? I think any fabric can be used to make a bag, some fabrics are harder to work with and might need some sort of stabiliser, this fabric was quite easy to work with. I’m planning to make a pair of kid’s shorts with it, which was my original idea when I bought it. It’s quite a versatile fabric so there really is no limit to what you can make. BST Fabrics is based in the North East, though you yourself are not from there, how did you come to find out about BST and why do you use them rather than somewhere closer to home for you? When I got into sewing I realised that there were some Facebook groups dedicated to sewing advice, and this is how I found out about BST, someone had recommended them, so I had a look. Then I watched some

of Tracy’s live sales which were full of bargains and fun. I was hooked 😂 there’s nothing like it closer to home, most shops are quite specific on what they sell and BST is more like a one stop shop which I really enjoy. Plus, they’re fun and there’s also a nice community spirit of helpful sewists who are always ready to help. As well as the website, BST are

very active on social media, do you follow them on any of their group pages, if so why? All of them 😂 there’s a group dedicated to bargain sales, another one dedicated to showing off your makes/looking for advice. They’re all really useful. And fun. How long have you been crafting and how did you get started? I started about 2.5 years ago.

I bought a sewing machine, without having any idea how to work with it 😂 learned a lot through watching youtube tutorials and asking for advice from more experienced sewists. Is it something you do for fun or is it a business for you, maybe even a bit of both? It’s a bit of both. It started as a hobby and it sort of grew into a little Facebook page, where I sell my makes and do custom orders. I really enjoy it. If it is a business do you have a website or social media page or anything for it that our readers can check out, maybe even order from you? It’s called Sew So Creative. You can find a bit of everything there. htt p s : / / w w w.fa c e b o o k . co m / sewsocreative What kinds of things do you make? Scarves, purses, bags, make up pouches. I’m always looking for different things to make. Do you have any advice that you can give to someone who wants to get into crafting? Just dive right in 😂 get some

materials, practice a bit if it goes wrong it doesn’t matter just try again and have fun. When you are not crafting what do you like to do in your spare time? I like to do a bit of gardening, and also really enjoy drawing. Tell us 3 random facts about yourself? I really like history/historical facts. I listen to music at all times,

mostly rock/metal. I’m a biochemist. What is your next craft project going to be? Probably a nice dress, ready for a sunny spring. How does it feel to be the winner of BST Fabrics ILIV BCI Creator Competition? Incredible. I never thought I’d win as there’s so many fantastic sewists within the BST community, I was very lucky.

IN 2ND PLACE - HAYLEY NOLAN

Have you ever won anything like this before, with your crafting? No, it was the first time. Which made it even better. Well, we think your bag is stunning and you are the deserved winner so congratulations once again and we look forward to seeing future projects come to life, thank you for chatting with us Joana. Thank you 😊

IN 3RD PLACE - JULIE CHARLES

www.bstfabrics.co.uk

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)

Northern Alliance Premier Division outfit, Percy Main Amateurs – SAVED!! This was actually something completely different, but we’re pleased, no delighted, that Percy Main Amateurs, of the Bay Plastics Northern Alliance Premier Division, have been handed an eleventh hour reprieve, news emanating from Purvis Park that the club, at the last minute, has been SAVED…. The main context of the feature remains, we caught up with Bob

Rodgerson, who talks about his long association with the club, and what it means to him, and the people, and in turn, the nonleague scene as a whole (note, some of Bob’s quotes relate to prior the announcement of the club being saved, left to afford some context as to the task at hand, and an insight into what behind-thescenes at a non-league club, can be, and is, like). Over a century of history is hanging by a thread at Purvis Park, home of Bay Plastics Northern Alliance Premier Division side,

Percy Main Amateurs. With an ongoing need for groundwork, the current pavilion having stood since the seventies, the two-time Northern Alliance champions have, this past week, handed in their intention to resign from the Northern Alliance at the end of the upcoming, round-robin Challenge Cup tournament. Founded in 1919, the Main went on to become eight-time Northern Amateur League champions before joining the Alliance in 1968 winning the Senior Benevo-

lent Bowl within a decade, prior to their claiming back-to-back championships in 1981 and 1982 (they would also be runners-up the following season). Bob Rodgerson, a member of that two-time, title-winning side in the early eighties, and current treasurer, looking back on the Main under his watch, said: “I joined the club, as a player, at the start of the eighties, and it was a great time to be involved. “It was great winning those titles (as a player) and quite special to also win one when as manager (First Division in 1999). “A great feeling to be able to accomplish something, and there were some really good sides (several of whom are now Northern League) in the Alliance in those days.” In finishing runners-up in ’83, three points adrift of champions, Darlington Cleveland Bridge, the Main also enjoyed their best cup run since 1930 (when they reached the quarter-finals of the English Amateur Cup), making the fifth round of the FA Vase. During that campaign the Main saw off Wingate (Durham) in the

Preliminary Round, 2-1 at home, before victories over Tadcaster Albion, Seaham CW Red Star, Peterlee Newtown, and, in a replay, Easington Colliery, before being felled by Brandon United in the fifth. “That was actually a really good year, in fact it all was, back then,” continued Bob. “I really enjoyed the Seaham game - there’s games that stick in your memory, and that was one of them. “As for Brandon, we had some fantastic battles with then, just like we did with Blyth Spartans in the

semi-finals of the Senior Cup. “But we soon split up, and I went to Seaton Delaval for a time, returning to Percy Main in the early nineties.” Immediately after that success the club hit a downward spiral, when, for five out of the next eight seasons, they would finish in the bottom four, being relegated in ’93, and culminating in Bob’s return. The next eight seasons would be spent battling away in the Alliance’s second tier as Bob set about a rebuild. “When I came back as manager the club were bottom of the table, and we slowly set about rebuilding back up from there, right up to winning the title, from Coxlodge, in ’99,” added Bob. “We then defeated Carlisle (City) the following season in the League Cup final before I found myself moving to Ireland, and onto the club committee – it wasn’t fair to try keeping me as manager.” Again, following success, the Main found themselves struggling and,

but for the glimpses of success, Benevolent Bowl’s in 2004 and 2011, and a Combination Cup in 2010, as well as a second, First Division title in 2015, the struggles have become ever-more real.

Concerning the future of Percy Main Amateurs, club secretary, Norman De Bruin, posted the following statement on the official club website, with quotes from the incoming owners –

has only 1 senior men’s team.

“We obviously don’t want to see the club go under, but our hands are tied, and we keep hitting that proverbial, brink wall,” concludes Bob.

“From the brink of oblivion only a couple of weeks ago, we welcome a bright and exciting new future for Percy Main Amateurs FC, with the additions of club directors Ryan Lynch and Paul Springett.

Heading up the club we welcome Paul Springett, with a brief introduction;

“I’ve been here over twenty-five years so not your fly-by-nights, but it does drain you, even if it’s enjoyable as well. “The current situation hasn’t helped things, but we can’t, and won’t blame that for this. “The day-to-day, month-tomonth, running of the club, that’s all fine, but it’s the bugbear, the foundations and the brickwork, the buildings, the pavilion, that’s what needs work.

“Unfortunately though, it’s very hard to be able to do anything, very, very frustrating, and we just really need to have finished what is started, or it really will all be over – and we really don’t want that, not on our watch.”

The enthusiastic pair, have ambitious plans for PMA with a raft of developments in the pipeline, which will include comprehensive improvements to the club’s Purvis Park ground, more community involvement and the rebranding of the entire set up, which at present

More details are to follow in the coming days and weeks, but they will undoubtedly put our football club well and truly on the map.

Paul grew up in the North East, 2 miles from Purvis Park in Hadrian Park and played at Wallsend Boys Club most nights. Paul has an extensive back ground in finance and works for a US Hedge Fund by day having worked in finance for 20 years. He is also the Director of London club, Erith & Belvedere FC who play in the SCEFL league where they have themselves undergone a huge transformation and rebuilding process and a club where a Paul made 144 appearances. Paul has recently finished a 20 year non-league player career. Paul will be joined by his business partner Ryan Lynch who will also join as a new Director. Ryan (37) is the founder and day to day operator of DOUGH, which started in 2017 from a kitchen unit

and Instagram and has now grown to five sites across Merseyside. He has also recently started his second brand, lynchburger. Ryan, known for his expertise in starting up businesses, is a successful entrepreneur and has a track record of making them profitable on low budgets. He also does all the marketing and social media for his businesses, amassing a total of 50k followers across all platforms. A short statement from Paul read “This is a very historic club with a history of 102 years, the story itself of how the soldiers from World War One walked out of the trenches to form a football team is amazing. Having grown up in Newcastle for my entire childhood I’ve always had strong connections with the area and recently my Mother and partner moved back to the area. I still have a lot of good friends in the area and it’s a place close to my heart. Having played schoolboy football and playing for North Tyneside and a frequent visitor of Wallsend Boys club enjoying some of the best nights of my life I know just

how much football means to the people and kids of the North East

Up the Villagers. Up the Percy. I can’t wait to get started”

They say that there is always a ghost from your childhood in your adult life and I felt that when I met everyone from Percy Main a week ago, I could feel how much this club means to them. This project is an ambitious one and one we are extremely delighted to be taking on, there is a huge amount of work to do. Step by step we need to start over and build a community and extended family.

The committee has also been bolstered by the addition of Dean Lowdon, a current sponsor and director of ABR Mortgage & Protection and he has started work immediately looking at funding and grants which may be available.

To give something back to the North East and develop the youngsters will be truly special.

Keen supporter and former player Keith Bell, will become ‘Club Historian’ and Keith will be interested to hear if anybody has any information on the club’s past. (keith1bell@hotmail.com) Because of the urgent need for extra off the field help at Purvis Park, team manager Steve Hurd has decided that at the end of the season and following the Challenge cup games, he will take a sideways step and join the committee, enabling the club to bring in a new management team and an extra couple of pairs of hands. Going forward, he will play a vital part in the club’s future. Steve has been with The Main for almost 4 years and has mucked in with

anything that has needed doing behind the scenes, often setting about essential tasks on his own and it is a measure of his commitment to the club that he has taken this action. Dave Dickson will take the hot seat from the end of the current season, he is known for developing younger players, he has extensive coaching and managing experience, having guided many former juniors through the ranks and into the top echelons of the non-league game. His first experience of managing in senior football came with Gateshead Reserves where he assembled an exciting young side, which took the Northern Alliance by storm. After a spell with the first team in the National league which coincided with a period of turmoil for Gateshead, Dave moved onto Billingham Synthonia, where he maintained his philosophy of developing a young side and following an unbeaten 20 game run, guided the Synners into an automatic promotion slot, until covid put paid to the 2019-20 season. He is also an ardent club man, who is happy to help with the

many off field duties that may need doing. Coming in as assistant manager is Ben Garrity, who has previous links with Dave. Ben cut his team teeth in junior football starring for the likes of Felling Magpies, Leam Rangers and Ponteland United, before first playing senior football in the Northern Alliance with Gateshead Rutherford at the tender age of 16. He then had a stint in the Northern league with Birtley Town, Billingham Synthonia and Brandon United and has also gained valuable experience playing in a series of friendly matches for Gateshead FC.

Ben has coached since he was 16 and having passed his badges, set up his own coaching business. He coaches at Birtley Town U17s and helps out at various grassroots clubs on request, putting training sessions on for them. Ben said “It’s a massive thing for me at a young age to take a step back from playing and become assistant manager of Percy Main, but when Dave offered me the role it’s an offer I couldn’t refuse. It’s a very exciting position to be as the club has got very exciting plans for the future and I can’t wait to get started and put 120% into being a big part of the future for Percy Main... Up The Main!!!!!” For all about Percy Main Amateurs, visit their website https:// www.pitchero.com/clubs/percymainamateursfc/ or follow them on Twitter via https://twitter.com/ PercyMainFC - images produced with permission of the football club.

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

Hi Colin, welcome to NE, can

NEW BINS AIM TO TURN TIDE ON TOWN CENTRE GUM DROP MENACE WHAT costs a mere 3p to buy, but a whopping £1.50 to get rid of? Chewing gum is an unsightly menace that plagues roads and pavements up and down the land. UK consumers get through up to four million pieces of gum every year, and it’s a problem that lands UK councils with an eyewatering annual clean-up bill of around £60 million. There are estimated to be thousands of discarded pieces of gum in the pedestrianised area of Middlesbrough town centre alone, with removal requiring the hire of costly specialist equipment. Now a new campaign is under way to encourage chewers to dispose of their little balls of sticky nastiness in a responsible and public-spirited way - and turn the discarded goo into

something useful.

it, bin it - it really is that simple.

Visitors to central Middlesbrough will spot 20 bright pink Gumdrop bins at key locations as part of a trial to help clear up the streets.

“Discarded gum is an anti-social eyesore that costs a small fortune to clean, and chucking it in the street is just as unacceptable as spitting or dropping a cigarette butt.

But they’re no ordinary bins Gumdrop is the first company in the world to recycle and process chewing gum into a range of new compounds that can be used in the rubber and plastics industry. Using the company’s unique Gum-tec® process, unwanted gum is transformed into new Gumdrop bins and other reusable products such as coffee mugs, rulers, mobile phone cases, coat hangers, buckets, picnic cutlery and drinking straws. Gumdrop on-the-go keyrings are also available free from Middlesbrough community hubs and libraries - once full they can be placed into the Gumdrop bins for onward recycling. Councillor Dennis McCabe, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Environment, said: “Don’t chuck

“These Gumdrop bins could change all that - not only are you avoiding the risk of an £80 fixed penalty notice, but your discarded gum will go on to do something useful rather than getting stuck to roads, pavements and shoes.” To find out more about the Gumdrop campaign visit http:// gumdropltd.com/about/ For the latest local updates and information, visit www. middlesbrough.gov.uk/covid19 For information on local help and support, visit www. middlesbrough.gov.uk/helpboro

Synth sci-fi Sapien Trace

oozing

through

In supporting the Musicians Against Homelessness cause, Newcastle trio, Sapien Trace, and electro synth-rock band, are continuing their upward surge in sound, beginning with the release later this month of their new single, More Than I Can Give. Fronted by Mark Dickinson the trio also features that of Alex Brand (guitar, bass) and Dan Baldwin (drums) they came about somewhat accidentally between late 2016 and early 2017, performing a couple of gigs a month ever since, that’s alongside Mark and his solo sessions, just for added awesomeness. “Yeah, myself and Alex met at a Halloween party a few years back,” explained Mark. “Then, in the February the following year, Dan joined in the fun and we’ve been performing a couple of gigs a month ever since. “At the beginning we were more a heavier metal sound though due to the musical influences on Alex. We were more into your likes of Korn etc so that was pretty much at the forefront of what we did. “Fortunately we’ve calmed the sound down a bit since then.” Quietly moving along behindthe-scenes over the past three years, releases gaining mixed reviews they have seen The Crack labelling them as being ’Sci-fi rock at its finest,’ whilst NE Volume went a little crazy when

inviting music lovers to ‘Imagine Rammstein and The Prodigy meet at a party in space with Pendulum driving,’ “The last gig we performed (with Moodbay in mid-January) was one of the best we’ve done,” Mark continued. “It was a great experience with some new people. I will admit though, it has been a little difficult at times, doing all this, although we’ve also managed to ascertain some pretty decent reviews.” Now, with their impending new single, More Than I Can Give, set for mid-February release, the lads jumped in and recorded their new offering at Blast Studios, Newcastle, ready for the launch party at Beyond Vinyl in town. “The track itself is about your unrequited love,” added Mark. “It kind of shows how you rebuff that in a nicer way and is an idea that evolved from a few people that I know have experienced these types of situation and Twitter n over the years. “Going into Blast Studios, it was such an easy day as well. One which went quite quickly. “We all had a good laugh and had some rather bizarre conversations, something which we all wanted – we even found out that our drummer, Dan, is something of a pool shark! “We’ve gone through a lot though, but that’s good and we’re already working on some new material.” Along with the single launch party on February 21, Sapien

Trace enter the Battle of the Bands competition over Ashington way on March 5, then a week later head to The Globe in Newcastle to perform the Musicians Against Homelessness gig alongside AXLS, The Floral Detectives, and Holy Braille – an eclectic mix of musicianship. Expected to be “a mashup of deep house and synthwave pop” Sapien Trace have their single launch party at Beyond Vinyl, Westgate Road, Newcastle, on February 21, check the event page via https://www.facebook.com/ events/1886579848152288/ More Than I Can Give will be available on all platforms and you can keep up-to-date with all their usual happenings via their website https://www. sapientrace.com/ and social media platforms Facebook htt p s : / / w w w.fa c e b o o k . co m / sapientracers/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/SapienTrace (Image credits to Kai Eden, David Wala, and Paul Murray)

Elena Larkin

Hartlepool pop songstress aiming to make waves in the music industry – who’s with her?

and quite rightly, to focus on her education, eventually gigging a few years later.

Remember the name, Elena Larkin…

It’s been a tactic that’s served her well and, by the time she reached 18, was out gigging in the daunting, wide world, and has never looked back.

A diminutive, talented, singer songwriter from the north-east coastal town of Hartlepool; although just 24-years-old, Elena has already racked up over a decade of experience, and, even though her debut single, Introducing Me, was released back in 2013, that in itself was laid down when enjoying a trip to London’s famed, Abbey Road Studios. Back then though, Elena was but a young, spritely teen, at the tender of age of fifteen, and chose, then,

“I’ve actually been singing for as long as I can remember, and performing since I was what, 13,” began Elena, surprising herself in that she has been as active as she is today. “My love of music came from my mum’s side of the family, with my grandfather, and great-grandfather, having been musicians of sorts.

“My grandfather, he began giving me advice when I was like, fiveyears-old, and, although my mum can carry a sweet tune, my dad, he couldn’t sing for toffee (she giggles). “I’d then join a performing arts charity where I was always rehearsing, hours upon hours, every week. “I would always say yes and absolutely loved being up there on stage, it’s the best feeling.” From there, Elena was not only smitten with the entertainment industry, but grew with every passing moment, continuing to do so.

“When I performed my first venue gig, at aged 18, it was like, wowsers, just amazing really, but I’ve been really lucky to have done what I have done,” It was to be eight years ago Elena would release her debut single, Introducing Me, then stepped back from the ‘limelight;’ still performing, the love of music remained and, in working with an artist development company in recent years, the initial intention was to release an EP.

That however changed once the covid-19 pandemic struck down the world, and, for a second time in her young life, her priorities

changed.

Vocal Academy.

“I was very young when I released my debut single,” continued Elena.

“After I’d finished my education I auditioned for the artist development programme and I’m now surrounded by some really great people, and learnt so much along the way.”

“I had no vocal coach training so was advised that would be the best course of action, and ended up getting my own business – Elevate

In recent years, and with ongoing support coming from that of Rianne Thompson and BBC Tees Introducing, Bishop FM, Radio Hartlepool, and Spark Sunderland radio stations, Elena has also performed at Catterick Racecourse, as well as for both Hartlepool Borough Council, and the BBC Tees Christmas services, keeping her, and her increasing fan-base,

interested. “I was supposed to be releasing music (EP) last year, but, because of what’s been going on, I held off,” continued Elena. “Now though, with an end in sight, it feels right to start pushing my music, and I’m so excited for people to be able to hear what I’ve been working on. “Initially yes, it was going to be an EP, but decided to release the tracks individually instead (Miss Communication released February, Closure released March). “So that’s what I’m going to do this year, whilst already working on next year. “I like to dance, move around a lot, speak to people during gigs, and I have a very, upbeat set, but I

also know you have to be flexible with each performance as well.”

With gigs already starting to come in for later this year, and a third release imminent, Elena is, understandably, excited about what’s to come – she just hopes the current climate continues to ease, and the heather holds firm. And with that, the hope for what will be the next chapter in the progression of Elena Larkin, is that she “continues to push forward. “I want to be able to build a good team around me as well as being a part of a band. “I’ve already got people interested in that, which is great, so we’ll have to wait and see what happens.” Primarily a pop musician, with fusions of differing genres, there has been a musical offering which means so much to the young Elena. At the young age of just 21 years,

Elena’s world would be rocked in the run-up to the festive season, with the passing of her beloved grandmother, someone with

whom the pair were extremely close. “I had the opportunity to sing ‘Hallelujah’ to her before she passed, and she loved it,” adds Elena. “I also performed it at Christmas, and it was one of her favourites; it warms my heart to know that she had that love for my music.”

Keep up-to-date with all of Elena Larkin’s musical exploits via her socials Facebook https://www. facebook.com/elenalarkinuk,

Twitter https://twitter.com/ElenaLarkin, and Instagram https:// www.instagram.com/elenalarkin/

Elena Larkin

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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[ne 2021 artist of the Year]

McKay heads into the ‘Wild West’ with release of upcoming single Those wonderfully, dulcet tones of Darlington songbird, Hayley McKay, will be brought to the fore later this month with the release of her new single, ‘Wild West.’ The pending single, out on 30 April, caps what has already been a productive start to 2021, and is the promise of much more to come. Having released a number of

singles during the past year, the NE Online Magazine Artist of the Year 2021, who is based herself at the Forum Music Centre in Darlington, has hopes of, maybe, doubling that this time around. “I’ve managed to write quite a few songs over the past twelve months,” explained Hayley. “I’ve got another release with Hattie Murdoch, and one with Nashville songwriter, Bill DiLuigi to come at some point, but yes, this past year has allowed me time to focus more, and write so many

songs with other artists. “Creatively, I’m pretty chuffed with what I’ve achieved in the last twelve months.” As she continues to progress herself, it’s remarkable that she’s not a regular in the mainstream considering the abundance of talent she possesses, and her longevity in the industry. It’s an industry that sees current support coming from, in the first instance, Ireland, where she has ancestral connections, and has

recently been on RTE1, as well as Hot Country TV, the latter seeing music videos played, and was recently interviewed for. “I’d love to be able to go out to Ireland in say, July, for a tour,” continued Hayley. “I’ve been contacting venues in the southern area, and it’s something in which I really want to do, and with them being really supportive of myself, and my music, I think it would be great.” Speaking of gigging, touring, and the performing of live music, in an industry alongside that of theatre which has found itself extremely hard-hot over the past twelve months or so, Hayley, along with many others, can see that glistening, chink of light, at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel. Tentative steps and meticulous

planning could well be overtaken by overenthusiasm, rushing headlong into what is still an uncertain future, but could be forgiven for, after all, we are all now making up for lost time. Numerous artists already have planned, live performances, in the not-too-distant future, Hayley included, and there’s plenty of excitement brewing around those, that’s for sure. “I’ve a mini-tour building up for November,” beamed Hayley, “with dates in Manchester (Gulliver’s) and London (229 Club) already pencilled in, as well as looking into some north-east dates. “Of those, I’ve a ‘Country Rounds’ at the Forum, in July, with Kezia Gill, Biddy Ronelle, and myself, performing, as well as an outing I’m really excited about, and that’s performing at that British Coun-

try Festival at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, in early September.” Before all that kicks in however, and some sort of reality resumes, not just for Hayley but all of us, Darlington’s delightful songbird, in just a matter of weeks, releases her new single, and it includes the mandolin, the fiddle, and the guitar… Taking herself back to a bygone era, and the portrayal in early fifties musical/western, Hayley takes inspiration for her release on the Doris Day portrayal of the iconic Calamity Jane Canary, a heroine of the iconic Wild, Wild West. It was a period of American history that spans over three centuries, said to have started in the early 1600s and covered that of Western USA, and specifically that of the Southwest, colloquially known as

the American frontier, and it, in part, is the title of said release. “Yes, ‘Wild West’ will be my new single, and it comes out on 30 April,” smiles Hayley. “It’s taken a little longer, granted, because of all that’s going on, but I’ve been in the recording studio, and there’ll also be an accompanying video, which is great. “I’ve found myself inspired by Calamity Jane, and by Doris Day, and the track is all about uncertainty, the not knowing where you’re going, the moving out of your own comfort zone. “Written, on and off, over a few months, during the past year, it’s been wonderfully mixed by John P. Taylor (produced by Chris Davison, and features, drummer Paul Smith, and the fiddle from Johnny Bunce of The Spirit Levellers), and is definitely a country music tune, with a steam train kind of beat throughout; it came naturally to me, and again, is a little different to others that I’ve produced of late.” Scheduled for release on 30 April, ‘Wild West’ and of Hayley McKay, can be found via Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/hayleymckaymusic, Twitter https://twitter.com/ mckay_hayley Instagram https:// www.instagram.com/hayleymckaymusic/ and her website www. hayleymckay.co.uk

reclaimedradio.com

LUXURY FINE DINING EXPERIENCE UNDISCLOSED TO OPEN IN SUNDERLAND D’Acqua has been taken over by the owner of Emily’s Table to reopen the restaurant as a gastronomic dining experience. Christopher Spence, owner of Emily’s Table in Sunderland, has taken over restaurant D’Acqua, subject to contracts exchanging to transform it into an upscale dining experience, Undisclosed. Located on St. John’s Street, Undisclosed is hoping to launch on the 17th May following the recent government announcements. The renovation cost around £10,000, and Christopher will be looking to hire experienced kitchen hands, waiting staff and cocktail bartenders to work when the restaurant opens in May. Chef Patron, Christopher, was inspired by the hidden bars he visited during his time in Australia. He wanted to bring the speakeasy influence to Undisclosed, which is why there will be little outside branding to give the restaurant an exclusive feel. Located in the basement of the building, the restaurant will feature a gastronomy menu and molecular cocktails. Christopher opened Emily’s Table nine months ago, as a fine-dining experience that you can enjoy in your own home. After seeing that D’Acqua was for sale, he took the opportunity to expand by making an offer to the owners, Jimmy and Hannah Hadforth and bring the at-home dining into a high-end restaurant that people could enjoy for affordable prices. Christopher said,

“We are grateful to Jimmy and Hannah Shadforth, current owners of D’Acqua, for the opportunity, and wish them the very best in their new adventure, Jacob’s Pantry, an outside catering business and for allowing us to fulfil our vision for Undisclosed and carry on from everything they have achieved over the last 13 years.” Christopher will be continuing the hard work Jimmy and Hannah have maintained throughout the lockdown by offering the takeaway service until the new restaurant is unveiled in May where he hopes to welcome both existing and new customers alike.

Whilst being unable to open due to government restrictions, D’Acqua is currently being redesigned and renovated. It hopes to create a visual experience for customers when it eventually opens as Undisclosed on the 17th of May. Christopher concluded, “There is no other restaurant in the North-East like Undisclosed, and we are excited to bring this unique experience to Sunderland and welcome old and new clients alike.”

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EastEnders actor Todd Carty to star in Summer Panto at Playhouse Whitley Bay • Playhouse Whitley Bay set to reopen its doors as lockdowns ease • EastEnders actor Todd Carty to star as Long John Silver • Family Entertainment to hit the stage in Summer 2021 Grange Hill’s “Tucker” and Dancing on Ice contestant Todd Carty swaps the screen for the Playhouse Whitley Bay stage to appear in the summertime family pantomime Treasure Island. Since the government closed all theatres on March 15th 2020, the Playhouse, Whitley Bay has been forced to bring the curtain down and close its doors. However, given the Government’s recent roadmap, this summer, in association with Reece Sibbald Productions Ltd, the lights will rise, the music will play and the laughter will ring out as Treasure Island is sails onto the stage. This pantomime adaptation of Treasure Island follows the swashbuckling voyage of Jim Hawkins in his quest for great adventure. Featuring magical mermaids, hilarious slapstick and the villainous Long John Silver, this is ship-shape Pantomime boasts fun

for all the family. Producer, Reece Sibbald commented: “Live entertainment in our region has been absent since March 2020, and audiences are eager to return to our beloved theatres. We have been working around the clock to ensure the safety of our audiences, cast and company remains at the forefront of our focus. Treasure Island boasts everything a family audience love: adventure, fantasy, beautiful costumes, sumptuous scenery and laughter for all of the family. As one of the first major productions in the North East live events calendar, we advise early booking to avoid disappointment.” Treasure Island will play for a limited run of 9 performances from 18th – 22nd August 2021 at the Playhouse Whitley Bay. Tickets are priced from £14.50

Treasure Island – The Summer Panto! Playhouse Whitley Bay Wednesday 18th – Sunday 22nd August 2021 www.PlayhouseWhitleyBay.co.uk 0844 248 1588* Tickets from £14.40 *Calls costs 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge

Hi Chris and welcome to NE, can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hello, I am Chris Morton, I live in Newcastle upon Tyne. I am the founder of Viking Hypnotherapy and I am a qualified professional Clinical Hypnotherapist and NLP Performance Coach. You are the man behind Viking Hypnotherapy, but what is Viking Hynotherapy? Viking Hypnotherapys’ business motto is having “The Strength to Conquer Anything”. Wherever

you are today this is just a situation you’re in now, this is not your life, we all have the power to change our lives and I am basically your guide for this. Utilising the power of positive suggestion to bring about subconscious change to your thoughts feelings and behaviours. NLP is an approach to communication, personal development, psychotherapy and also Life Coaching.

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.

How different is Hypnotherapy compared to a hypnotist, is it the same thing or is it completely dif-

Have these comedy hypnotist shows, where they put you under and then get you to do silly things

DARLINGTON HIPPODROME TO RECEIVE £499,304 FROM SECOND ROUND OF THE GOVERNMENT’S CULTURE RECOVERY FUND Darlington Hippodrome is among more than 2,700 recipients to benefit from the latest round of awards from the £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund. More than £300 million has been awarded to thousands of cultural organisations across the country including Darlington Hippodrome in the latest round of support from the Culture Recovery Fund, the Culture Secretary announced today. The grant will help Darlington Hippodrome offset losses from cancelled productions, retain jobs, secure the long-term future of the theatre and secure the purchase of new state-of-the-art cinema screening equipment to facilitate an ever expanding offer of events once the venue is able to re-open its doors in May. Over £800 million in grants and loans has already been awarded to support almost 3,800 cinemas, performance venues, museums, heritage sites and other cultural organisations dealing with the immediate challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. The second round of awards made today will help organisations to

look ahead to the spring and summer and plan for reopening and recovery. After months of closures and cancellations to contain the virus and save lives, this funding will be a much-needed helping hand for organisations transitioning back to normal in the months ahead. Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: “Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they’ve ever faced. Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead.” Heather Tarran-Jones, the Hippodrome’s Director of Programming and Development, said: “We are delighted to receive news of this second Arts Council England grant. The last twelve months has been a challenging time for the sector and we are very grateful to receive support from central government, administered through ACE, as part of a £1.57 billion package to protect the UK’s culture and heritage sectors from the economic impacts of Covid-19. “We are coming to the end of a

difficult journey and this funding will assist in the transition back to a sustainable business model. However, what we really need is the return of our fantastic audiences purchasing tickets to future shows to breathe life and energy back into the Hippodrome welcoming the return of live entertainment.” Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England, said: “Investing in a thriving cultural sector at the heart of communities is a vital part of helping the whole country to recover from the pandemic. These grants will help to re-open theatres, concert halls, and museums and will give artists and companies the opportunity to begin making new work. We are grateful to the Government for this support and for recognising the paramount importance of culture to our sense of belonging and identity as individuals and as a society.” The funding awarded today is from a £400 million pot which was held back last year to ensure the Culture Recovery Fund could continue to help organisations in need as the public health picture changed. The funding has been awarded by Arts Council England, as well as Historic England and National Lottery Heritage Fund and the British Film Institute.

Coinciding with International Women’s Day on March 8 the region’s Lucinda Grange (formerly of Hartlepool, now New York City) saw some of her finest work, from the project ‘Backwards and in High Heels,’ included in the Donna Karan – Urban Zen exhibition in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. Beginning on March 8 and running through until April 7, Ms. Grange’s most prized project, entitled as ‘Dancing with the Stars’ included in the exhibition ran by the ArtLead Her platform, a vision founded by Mashinda Tirfere. Supporting and promoting only female artists, ArtLead Her aims to help level the field in the art world, where the gender bias is very strong and, being part of what is Women’s History Month will help envelope that consensus. Speaking of her prized project, ‘Backwards and in High Heels,’ Lucinda said: “It is a quote in reference to Ginger Rodgers. “Fred Astaire, her male dance partner, would get more fame, fortune and attention than she did, yet she did everything he did, backwards and in high heels. “This project started with two selfportraits on the Chrysler Building (Midtown Manhattan, New York) and gradually grew as I photographed women I know and admire in places you wouldn’t expect

to see anyone - let alone a woman, looking strong and extravagant in a dress! “The aim of this project was to question stereotypes women are often subjected to, and instead highlight the strength and power

of these women.” To be included within the exhibition, for Lucinda, is something she is excited about and follows immediately after her solo exhibition, ‘City Cross-Section’ which was held at the Lyle O. Reitzel Contemporary Art Gallery and finished late-February. In the new exhibition at the Urban Zen Lucinda exhibited an image, ‘King Woman,’ which depicts Ingrid Silva, lead dancer for the Dance Theatre of Harlem. “In this picture, Ingrid is on point on the ladder of a water tower on a NYC rooftop. “Ingrid grew up in Brazil, a very humble beginning, and now she’s the dance company’s top dancer, traveling the world, following her passion. “She is now performing to crowds of thousands despite the many obstacles that have been in her way. “Not only is she Brazilian, she is also black and petite, very far from those who one might expect to see as the lead dancer. “Her sheer willpower, dedication and determination got her all the way from living in Brazil, to being one of the top dancers in this city. “My aim was to capture the feeling of this inspiring person and her story in this one single image.” Women’s History Month is an annual declared month that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. It is celebrated during March in the U.S. the U.K. and Australia, coinciding with International Women’s Day on March 8.

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ALL ROUND TO THE HAIRY BIKERS’ FOR A NIGHT OF COOKING CONVERSATION WITH SI KING AND DAVE MYERS TICKETS ONSALE 10AM FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2018 National Treasures Si King and Dave Myers, aka The Hairy Bikers have announced a huge nationwide tour. With their irresistible enthusiasm, An Evening With The Hairy Bikers will be an epic night of cooking and conversation. Big hearted, down-to-earth cooks with a love of good food, Si and Dave have been cooking

together for more than twenty years. They have created haute cuisine dishes with Michelinstarred chefs and travelled the world in the pursuit of great food. They’ve also explored the length and breadth of the British Isles to discover brand new recipes and create their own fresh takes on cooking classics. The stars of several hit television shows, they are the UK’s most popular cookery duo with series including The Hairy Bikers’ Mediterranean Adventure, The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Book; Best of British; The Hairy Bikers’ Mississippi Adventure; Everyday Gourmets; The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of and two major

prime time series of Mums Know Best all drawing millions of audiences. No strangers to the live arena, The Hairy Bikers performed their sell-out Big Night Out show in theatres across the UK in 2010 and completed another ambitious nationwide theatre tour in April 2013. Tickets for The Hairy Bikers are on sale Fri 28 Sep from 10am and 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).

After having the doors of their house closed for over a year, the team at Jesmond Dene House are so excited to finally be able to share some good news with you... they will be reopening on Wednesday 19th May, and regular visitors to the venue will notice some remarkable changes. Behind the scenes, the team have been working hard, making some very exciting changes which they are thrilled to be able to share. After announcing the refresh and refurbishment of the Billiard Room, Bar and public areas earlier this year, comes the most exciting part - their brand-new restaurant name and dining concept. Introducing, Fern: Described as an upmarket neighbourhood dining room and bar, the food is; contemporary, non-fussy, and prepared with the love, care and attention that their guests have come to expect with the quality brand Jesmond Dene House represents. The space promises to offer relaxed, informal Geordie hospitality, and memorable dining experiences. To celebrate the opening of their

latest offering, Executive Chef, Danny Parker has organised a special event for their guests on Sunday May 30th. The event: An Evening with MasterChef Danny Parker, is planned so guests can enjoy an exclusive dining experience, where he will be serving the very-same menu he cooked on the show in December, with some exciting additions, as well chatting to the guests about the dishes.

Danny told us: “Fern will present a seasonally changing À la Carte dinner menu, showcasing the team’s relationship with suppliers, and the incredible British larder, drawing on inspiration from memories, and of course, embracing the sassy classics. Serving breakfasts, afternoon teas, Sunday lunches, cocktails and evening dinners, the intention is to offer a relaxed area to enjoy for

both guests and locals alike.” After returning to MasterChef, the Professionals: A Festive Knockout in December 2020, Danny decided that it was the right time to release the exclusive tasting menu to his guests at Jesmond Dene House. Danny explained: “Since the show aired, I have been asked on many-occasions if we will be serving the MasterChef dishes on our menu, and after having our doors closed for over a year, now feels like the perfect time to celebrate re-opening with this exclusive one-off menu – and we have a brand-new restaurant to showcase it in.” Danny, 31 from Stockton-on-Tees joined the Jesmond Dene House family in the summer of 2018, in the role of Executive Chef. Previously, Danny was the former Head Chef at Kenny Atkinson’s, Michelin starred House of Tides and has twice represented the North East on BBC One’s Great British Menu. In addition to becoming a finalist on MasterChef The Professionals, Danny was also a finalist in National Chef of the Year and the Roux scholarship.

Danny concluded: “Whilst we take our inspiration from classic and modern cookery techniques, we couldn’t do it without our back-up team of excellent suppliers like Wellocks, Hodgson Fish and R&J Yorkshires Finest Farmers and Butchers. These

suppliers are key to the success of Fern Dining Room and Bar and we’re proud to be able to use their amazing produce.” For more information on any of the above, please head to www. jesmonddenehouse.co.uk or call 0191 212 3000.