Issue 65 - February 2018 ISSN 1745-4654
Darlington Today | 1
We are a small family run Coffee Shop located downstairs in the Cornmill Centre. (opposite Bon Marche) We have a varied menu which includes a variety of meals and snacks Choose from jacket potatoes, toasties, burgers, breakfasts and sandwiches, cakes, scones and other snacks. Children's meals are also available. All our coffee is all fair trade coffee, other hot and cold drinks are available. Please pop in for a snack or a meal - we are situated on the ground floor of the Cornmill Darlington.
Charlies Coffee Shop 49 Market Way The Cornmill Shopping Centre Darlington DL1 1HT
Tel: 01325 354100 Visit: www.charliescoffeeshop.co.uk
Opening times:
Monday to Saturday 9am to 4pm - Sunday 11am to 3pm
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local, relevant and entertaining It’s getting a little lighter each night and that can only mean one thing - we’re nearly over the winter blues once and for all because spring is almost here. To welcome in the new season, here at Darlington Today we’ve scouted out the best stories and events over the next few weeks so you can make the most of everything our region has to offer. We have a fashion feature jam-packed with new clothes to tempt you out of your jumpers and boots, with pinafores, light jackets and even a pair of sandals making an appearance. And whether you’re looking for inspiration for a theatre trip or you’re on the hunt for the next book you can curl up with, Darlington Today has you covered. We have interviews with Catherine Dryden acting in The Play That Goes Wrong and Keith Bell about his book, Blood Sweat and Scones, to tempt you. So sit back, grab a cuppa and have a read of everything this issue of Darlington Today has to offer.
Sue
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CONTENTS 4-5
THE LATEST NEWS
Find out all the latest news from Darlington
7-9
CROOK HALL AND GARDENS
We talk to Keith Bell about his new book about the property, Blood, Sweat and Scones.
14-17 FASHION FORECAST
Spring is fast approaching and we have all the latest pieces you’ll want to be snapping up in Darlington.
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THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
Bronia McGregor catches up with Catherine Dryden about joining the cast of the award-winning play coming to Darlington.
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TREAT YOURSELF WITH SALOME
Salome jewellery is creating a buzz from Newcastle to New York and we have a chance for you to win a necklace from one of the collections.
28-29 AN ASIAN ADVENTURE
Shannon Hodge has the trip of a lifetime, covering three countries in 13 days.
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WHAT’S ON?
Keep up to date with all the events in Darlington with our handy guide.
Win a pair of tickets to see CILLA & The Shades Of The 60’s on Wednesday 18th April at 7.30pm
“A STUNNING AND ELEGANT REVIEW OF THE LIFE OF CILLA BLACK” FEATURING HITS BY CILLA, THE BEATLES, DUSTY SPRINGFIELD AND MANY MORE...
The show will have audiences dancing in the aisles up and down the country to the greatest hits of the 60s performed by Victoria and vocal trio The Shades. The perfect musical stage show for families and pop music fans of all ages, ‘Cilla and the Shades of the 60s’ takes the audience on a musical journey starting with the discovery of the teenage singer, Cilla Black, at Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club and presents many of the biggest hits by artists who changed the world of popular entertainment in the 1960s including Cilla, Dusty, Lulu, Tina Turner, the Beatles and more.
How much is a full price ticket to see Cilla & The Shades of the 60’s at The Forum Theatre on Wednesday 18th April?
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING Riney Publishing Limited, Sue Riney-Smith t: 01325 304360 e: sue.riney@btinternet.com
‘CILLA AND THE SHADES OF THE 60S’ stars the effervescent Victoria Jones as Cilla.
Answer the following question to win a pair of tickets.
28 EDITORIAL
STARRING
VICTO JONERIA S FROM THE BBC’S
THE ONE
FORUM THEATRE
Queensway, Billingham, Stockton on Tees, TS23 2LJ
Shannon Hodge and Bronia McGregor, Sorted PR t: 0191 265 6111 e: bernice@sortedpr.com
& ONLY
WED 18 APR 2018, 7.30pm
forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk 01642 552663 shadesofthe60s.com
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate at the time of going to print, the publishers cannot accept responsibilities for errors, omissions, or changes in the details given.
Box office tel 01642 552663 - www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk Closing date for entries is Friday 9th March - See page 26 for entry details or email your answer with full name & address to: sue.riney@btinternet.com Competitions: Riney Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised, late entries or prizes not received. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers.
Darlington Today | 3
LOCALNEWS PUPILS ARTWORK BRIGHTENS UP HOSPITAL WARD ARTWORK is proving to be a breath of fresh air for respiratory patients, after budding painters turned their talents to ward walls. A host of sea scenes now brighten Ward 44 at Darlington Memorial Hospital, following a project organised by respiratory support group Breathe Easy Darlington for pupils at Gurney Pease Academy. The school-wide art competition was staged to raise awareness among young people who also studied the respiratory system and lung disease. Pupils were given the themes of under the water and up in the air, because of their links to lungs and breathing. Leon Garner, eight, won the competition with his collage of a seahorse, Marcus Watson, nine, was second and Morgan Taylor, eight, came third.
They were joined by head boy, Stephen Adenuga, head girl, Lucy English, higher level teaching assistant, Linda Cernik and Chair of Breathe Easy Darlington, Gaynor Williams, in presenting the artwork to hospital staff. Mrs Cernik said: “The children have learned such a lot and it is great to see the artwork in the hospital. They have been shown around the ward and it has heightened their awareness of respiratory conditions. It has been a really great project.” Sister Kelly Alsop said: “The artwork is brilliant and really brightens up the ward. The children were very interested in what we do here and I think they gained a great deal.” Breathe Easy Darlington is backed by the British Lung Foundation and is run by people with lung disease for people with lung disease. Mrs Williams said: “A lot of our members visit Ward 44 for their respiratory treatment. The artwork can’t fail to cheer up patients and staff. The school, staff and students have done an incredible job.”
A TASTE OF AFRICA performance of what they had learned about the Benin culture. Teacher Chris Pressdee-Rudd said: “We have been looking at West Africa as a topic, particularly the ancient kingdom of Benin.
Cultural expert Butshilo Nleyo
PUPILS banged the drum for learning, in an initiative designed to broaden their knowledge of Africa. Cultural expert, Butshilo Nleyo, brought a taste of Africa to pupils at Marchbank Academy, Darlington through creative rhythm and song. The performer spent the day with Year 5 and 6 pupils, teaching them traditional songs and beats before they staged a 4 | Darlington Today
Putting their hands in the air, L-R Joseph Roberts, Kyle Hauxwell, Bobby Alsop and John Waugh
“The workshop was the perfect way to enrich these studies with singing, drumming and dancing and all the pupils had a fantastic time, which I am sure they will always remember.”
Ward 44 staff Neil Hatton, Dean Dennett, Catherine Price, ward sister Kelly Alsop, Chair of Breathe Easy Darlington Gaynor Williams, Jane Graham, with Gurney Pease Academy pupils head boy Stephen Adenuga, second runner up Morgan Taylor, competition winner Leon Garner, and head girl Lucy English.
Breathe Easy Darlington meets on the first Tuesday of every month at The Copper Beech, Darlington, at 1pm. The group is free to join and welcomes carers, friends and relatives as well as those with any lung disease. Contact 03000 030 555.
TAILS WAGGING FOR ST TERESA’S HOSPICE A NEW pet store has taken the lead, by becoming the main sponsor of an event to get tails wagging. Jollyes pet superstore in North Road, Darlington, is backing St Teresa’s Hospice’s Bark in the Park spring fundraiser. Last year’s event attracted 442 dogs and their owners and raised more than £11,000 for the much-loved hospice, which serves
the people of Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire. This year Bark in the Park will be staged on 15 April at South Park, Darlington, attracting hundreds of dog owners for a one mile walk and a host of pet paraphernalia stalls. South Durham Dog Agility Club has agreed to stage a demonstration of canine skills and Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital is also backing the event. For Jollyes manager, Andy McDonald, the sponsorship provides an opportunity to support the hospice which helped his mother. Paws for thought, Poppy the Labrador with, L-R, St Teresa’s Hospice income generation team member Scott Marshall, chief executive Jane Bradshaw, Jollyes manager Andy McDonald and hospice fundraising and marketing manager John Paul Stabler
“I have first-hand experience of the fantastic work the hospice does for patients and their families as they looked after my mam,” he said. “It is so important to have such a brilliant support network like this in the community and last year we were so impressed with the Bark in the Park event that we simply had to get involved.” St Teresa’s Hospice chief executive, Jane Bradshaw, said: “Events like these are so important for the hospice and I am delighted that Jollyes enjoyed last year so much that they wanted to get involved. “People who come to the event not only have a fabulous time, they also learn about the work of the hospice and its many inpatient, day and outreach services.” Dogs registered by 12 noon on Friday, April 13, will receive a rosette and goody bag on completion of the walk, in return for an entry fee of just £5 per dog. Registration for Bark in the Park is open now at www.support.darlingtonhospice. org.uk/pages/bark-in-the-park and more information can be found online.
TWO STAR RESTAURANT BOOSTS LOCAL ECONOMY…
Robinson, from Walworth Castle Hotel, who said that they were also benefiting.
THE SUCCESS of the North East’s only two Michelin star restaurant is proving a huge boost to the local economy. And the high profile appearance by James Close of Darlington’s The Raby Hunt on BBC tv show, Masterchef the Professionals, has also added to the popularity of the restaurant – which in turn also bodes well for the local area. The restaurant, in the tiny village of Summerhouse outside of Darlington, has gone from success to success, with selftaught chef James now considered one of the UK’s rising stars. Since his appearance on Masterchef the Professionals there have been thousands of people in touch to make bookings, revealed James. “We had had three people manning the phones constantly to deal with the volume of calls,” said James. “And we’ve also had lots of people just turning up to have a look around the area.”
And the success of The Raby Hunt is not just beneficial to the restaurant itself. Thomas Robinson, Managing Director of Headlam Hall Hotel in Darlington was full of praise for the profile The Raby Hunt had brought to the area. “James Close along with his parents, Russell and Helene, have done an amazing job in turning a sleepy village pub into an internationally acclaimed, two Michelin star restaurant and in a relatively short period of time,” he said. “It is a great advert for our area and we have seen a steady increase in the number of people travelling from further afield who visit the Raby Hunt and stay overnight with us at Headlam Hall, including some highly respected people in the culinary world. “It is quite a remarkable achievement and I’m sure one that has come as a result of not only talent but also serious dedication.” His words were echoed by Michael
“We often have people staying who say they are going to eat at The Raby Hunt,” said Mr Robinson, who is general manager at the 12th century castle turned hotel. “And hopefully now because of the television exposure that will only get better and better. “It’s a huge asset to have a restaurant of that quality so close by, it can only be good for everyone.” Henry Carver of leading Darlington estate agents, Carver Residential, confirmed that the restaurant was a great selling point for the area. “When we are selling properties in some of the near-by villages we always mention that The Raby Hunt is just a few minutes away,” he said. “It’s great to be able to market homes in really lovely villages by adding that there is a fantastic two Michelin star restaurant in the area, it is a really positive selling point.” Further information is available at www.rabyhuntrestaurant.co.uk
Darlington Today | 5
You can book individual days or a full week. To book these sessions please call the Dolphin Centre on 01325 406000 or Eastbourne on 01325 405400.
e r o M Move ! p U Mash
SPECIA L O FFE B oo k a R ll five d a ys a n d pa y £ 50
mplex o C s t r o p S e n r astbou E d n a e r t n e C ary u r b e F h t 6 1 At the Dolphin y a to Frid y r a u r b e F h t 2 1 Monday
Dolphin Centre Monday and Tuesday 10.00am-3.00pm 8-15 years Enjoy a fun packed day bursting with sport and games, including the chance to enjoy the swimming so don’t forget your swimming kit! All children will need to bring a packed lunch. £12.00 per day
Eastbourne Sports Complex Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10:00am - 3:00pm 5-15 years £10.00 per day
6 | Darlington Today
Try a huge range of activities at Eastbourne Sports Complex. Activities throughout the day will include: Athletics, Cricket, Fencing, Football, Tri Golf and many more. All children need to bring a packed lunch and a coat.
Blood, Sweat and Scones Bronia McGregor caught up with Keith Bell to discuss his new book, Blood, Sweat and Scones, which describes what happens when you make your home a tourist attraction.
Darlington Today | 7
When Keith and Maggie Bell were house-hunting more than 20 years ago for somewhere big enough both to live in and house Keith’s management consultancy business, they fell in love with Crook Hall from the very first viewing. And many visitors over the years have now done the same, thanks to Keith and Maggie making the bold decision to open the manor house to the public, a journey that is documented in Keith’s new book, Blood, Sweat and Scones.
“I’ve reached the age where you start to look back and reflect and I was in the middle of writing a book about my life when my wife suggested writing about Crook Hall,” Keith explained. “I’ve been really impressed with the response, I’ve had people who rarely ever pick up a book tell me that they thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down and I can’t ask for better feedback than that.” Two decades after the Bell’s first purchased the property, Crook Hall and Gardens is now one of the Durham’s top visitor attractions, with people coming from far and wide to view the listed building and explore the idyllic gardens surrounding the property.
8 | Darlington Today
“One thing that never fails to surprise us is the generosity of the people who come to visit the hall,” said Keith.
“In our dining room we have a huge mirror which was a donation from someone who visited the hall and a painting that a local artist made and gifted to us. “Another time, we had bought 12 chairs at an auction that we had displayed in the house and a couple visiting from West London offered us two more.” Crook Hall seems to have that effect on people, with many people who visit the property returning time and time again and becoming charmed with the medieval building. “There was one girl who used to come and visit with her mum and then when she got older and went to university, she introduced it to her friends and she actually ended up deciding to have her wedding here as well.
“Opening the hall for events and weddings has been illuminating; we’ve met so many different characters. We feel extremely lucky that people want to come and visit the property and we really do see them as guests in our home.” And it’s not hard to see why Crook Hall and Gardens is so popular, with a maze, stunning views of Durham from the front of the hall and a pastoral setting at the rear with nothing but woodland and greenery. As well as having the regular issues that come with owning a home, in Blood, Sweat and Scones Keith describes some of the uncommon occurrences he has had experienced while living in the medieval manor house. “When Maggie and I were getting ready for a dinner at the hall with someone from the university, our gardener suddenly called me in from the Jacobean room and said “You’ll want to see this.” “A jackdaw had flown down the chimney and brought with it an avalanche of soot which covered the whole room. “It took a few hours to get it clean and wasn’t what I had planned to do but living here, there’s never a boring day.” Crook Hall is a building brimming with history and it would be hard to write about it without mentioning the
stories of the ghostly presences that inhabit the manor. It’s a topic that has piqued the interests of many and the haunting tales have spooked everyone from visitors to employees. And although he isn’t personally convinced, Keith has dedicated a whole chapter of the book to the subject for the fans of the paranormal. “We’re currently renovating what will be another holiday apartment for people to come and stay in and one of our workmen refuses to work there alone because of the ghostly happenings that are associated with the house,” explained Keith. “I prefer to go off the feeling you get when you walk through a front door and when I walked through Crook Hall for the first time, I felt comfortable and welcomed.
“But I will say that despite a few hiccups at the start, the house has always seemed to lend itself to everything that we have decided to do with it.” Blood, Sweat and Scones: Two Decades at Crook Hall can be purchased from any major book retailer or from Crook Hall and Garden’s website, http:// crookhallgardens.co.uk/shop/bloodsweat-scones-keith-bell/.
COMPETITION To win a copy of Blood, Sweat and Scones: Two Decades at Crook Hall, simply answer the following question: What city does Crook Hall and Gardens overlook? Darlington Today | 9
NEW F OR 2018
Bring The Warmth Into Your Home
An iconic classic, the AGA Cooker still tops the top-ten must haves for the home
The classic look of an AGA Cooker hasn’t changed much since its invention in 1922 by Swedish scientist Gustaf Dalen. The beauty of an AGA is its effortless design, and they are built and crafted at the AGA Factory in Telford. The cooker is constructed of cast iron, and its raw material is still smelted at the Coalbrookdale Foundry in Shropshire. All this makes it clear that an AGA is still a Great British product. The cooker itself works on the principle of stored heat. Using a small energy source (whether it be electricity, gas or oil) the high level of insulation inside the cooker holds the heat and distributes different temperatures to the castings of the cooker. It is a simple but effective resource, and running costs for gas models are currently less than £12 per week. As the cooker is on all the time, the beautiful warmth from the Aga produces an ambient temperature which seeps into the fabric of the building, silently but sweetly raising the temperatur and reducing your requirement for additional heating in your kitchen. In the cooler North East climate and in the modern open plan kitchen design the AGA is ideal for providing
constant warmth. More recently, models of fully- or semi controllable AGA Cookers have become available. There is also a compact baby AGA which will fit into any small flat or cottage, or suit a smaller budget – there really is an AGA to suit every home and every lifestyle. Founded in 1888, the family-run business Walter Dix & Co became one of the first AGA dealers in 1931, covering Tyneside, Northumberland, Durham and North Yorkshire. To this day they provide expert advice on AGA and employ both their own installation team and service engineers. Their fantastic showroom at Team Valley,
Gateshead boasts all the latest models of AGA Cooker and also hosts regular cookery demonstrations. Their knowledgeable staff can demonstrate working models and provide all the necessary information on why an AGA can truly bring the warmth into your home. In addition to AGA Cookers, Walter Dix & Co also is the leading supplier of rangestyle cookers. They have 14 different brands and more than 70 appliances on display in their showroom, as well as a dedicated AGA Cookshop and AGA Wood Burning Stoves. To find out more, get in touch or visit the Team Valley showroom which is open six days a week.
Walter Dix & Co 1 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE11 OJF Tel: 0191 4820033 email: sales@wdix.co.uk website: wdix.co.uk
DANCING ON IT’S
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We also do super fun Birthday Parties! Become an Ice VIP with the coolest party in town!
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FORUMICEARENA .CO.UK This facility is owned and supported by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and is managed by Tees Active Ltd.
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W
e’ve been waiting nearly 4 years for Dancing on Ice to return to our screens and finally…It’s back! Sunday night’s just got a whole lot better and we’re already hooked! It’s great to see Phil and Holly back, and Torvill and Dean fronting the judging panel. As usual Jason is being as brutally honest as ever (boooo!) And we welcome the Diversity dancer Ashley Banjo with open arms! Of course the stars of the show are the celebrities, who continue to impress every week. If the Dancing on Ice frenzy has got you itching to get out on the ice we have skating sessions to suit everyone. Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned professional, ice skating is the perfect way to keep fit, have fun with friends, or enjoy a fantastic family day out.
Our popular Simply Skate sessions run every day of the week and our relaxed Family Freeze sessions are held every Thursday and Friday evenings, offering the perfect setting for your little ones to build their confidence on the ice in a friendly and welcoming environment. Stability aids are also available to hire to make sure everyone stays on their feet! For the older kids we also have the Pulse Friday night disco, a firm favourite for those aged 12 -16 that plays the latest chart hits and booming party tunes to socialise and have a laugh with friends. Don’t forget to also look out for our innovative Full Moon UV and Avalanche foam parties throughout the year…Messy times are guaranteed! If Dancing on Ice has inspired you to take things to the next level, we have a rewarding Learn to Skate scheme that will help you find your feet and make strides on the ice in no time at all. We offer dedicated sessions for beginners, improvers and adults that will focus on technique, confidence and develop the necessary skills to take control of the ice!
Visit the website for session prices and times! www.forumicearena.co.uk Join the conversation social media.
Shake up your spring style Spring is just around the corner so what better excuse than to update your wardrobe and get rid of the layers that have been weighing you down all winter?
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Brighter colours, lighter clothing and stand-out patterns are a guaranteed way to banish the January blues and you don’t have to go any further than Darlington to pick up some great spring pieces.
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River Island, Mustard Denim Jacket £45
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Marks and Spencer, Jersey skinny jeans £12
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Primark, Embroidered cord pinny £15
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Primark, Grey t-shirt with white sleeves £15
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Next, Camouflage t-shirt £6
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Primark, Printed ruched sleeved jacket £17
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Primark, pink embroidered mesh dress £8
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Next, Navy trainers £35
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Next, Embellished daisy jeans £12
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10 New Look, Grey baker boy hat £9.99 11 River Island, White t-shirt with floral detail £28 12 Topman, Bomber jacket £45 13 New Look, Khaki sandals £19.99 Darlington Today | 15
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14 Primark, White dreamer t-shirt £4 15 Topshop, pink houndstooth skirt £29 16 Dorothy Perkins, Blue and White striped embroidered shirt £26 17 House of Fraser, Catimini girls animal print skirt £42 18 House of Fraser, Cotton linen short Howick 19 House of Fraser, Billybandit fancy illustration pullover £42 20 Next, Jeans with roll-up ankles £40 21 House of Fraser, Bamboo print shirt Howick £30 22 River Island, Black and white tassel jacket £70 23 Marks and Spencer, Autograph peplum top £16 24 Primark, Suede jacket £18 25 Topshop, Black and white polka dot trousers £49 26 River Island, Zig Zag Printed Short Sleeve Shirt £25 Darlington Today | 17
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Darlington Today | 19
Pet Store takes the lead A NEW pet store has taken the lead by becoming the main sponsor of an event to get tails wagging. Jollyes pet superstore in North Road, Darlington, is backing St Teresa’s Hospice’s Bark in the Park spring fundraiser. Last year’s event attracted 442 dogs and their owners and raised over £11,000 for the much-loved hospice, which serves the people of Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire. This year Bark in the Park will be staged in South Park, Darlington, on April 15, attracting hundreds of dog owners for a one mile walk and a host of pet paraphernalia stalls. South Durham Dog Agility Club has agreed to stage a demonstration of
Paws for thought, Poppy the Labrador with, L-R, St Teresa’s Hospice income generation team member Scott Marshall, chief executive Jane Bradshaw, Jollyes manager Andy McDonald and hospice fundraising and marketing manager John Paul Stabler
canine skills and Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital is also backing the event. For Jollyes manager Andy McDonald the sponsorship provides an opportunity to support the hospice which helped his mother. “I have first-hand experience of the fantastic work the hospice does for patients and their families as they looked after my mam,” he said. “It is so important to have such a brilliant support network like this in the community and last year we were so impressed with the Bark in the Park event that we simply had to get involved.” St Teresa’s Hospice chief executive Jane
Bradshaw said: “Events like these are so important for the hospice and I am delighted that Jollyes enjoyed last year so much that they wanted to get involved. “People who come to the event not only have a fabulous time, they also learn about the work of the hospice and its many inpatient, day and outreach services.” Dogs registered by 12 noon on Friday 13th April will receive a rosette and goody bag on completion of the walk, in return for an entry fee of just £5 per dog. Registration for Bark in the Park is open now at www.support.darlingtonhospice. org.uk/pages/bark-in-the-park and more information can be found online.
Sunday 15 April | South Park, Darlington Walk starts 10.30am | £5 entry fee per dog* Register at www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk *
In aid of
Reg. Charity No: 518394
20 | Darlington Today
If registered in advance
Sponsored by
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The Play That Goes Wrong It’s a multi-award winning play with many famous fans where the more that goes wrong on stage, the better. Bronia McGregor speaks to Catherine Dryden about The Play That Goes Wrong coming to Darlington.
THE audience shout and heckle from the stalls, cast members fall over and set pieces fall apart mid-performance. In any other production, this would be a sign that something had gone horribly awry but with Mischief Theatre’s The Play That Goes Wrong, that’s the whole point. Catherine Dryden plays Annie, the stage manager in charge of sets and scenery for the fictional Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society, who are attempting to stage a 1920’s murder mystery, with hilarious results.
“Annie is incredibly shy so she doesn’t like to be seen by the audience but because things keep going wrong, she ends up having to be pushed on stage as the lead actress and she goes on a real journey with the audience,” Catherine explained. And anyone who goes to see the play will quickly learn that the audience plays a bigger part in the production than they may usually expect at the theatre. Although it may take some getting used to if you are more acquainted with traditional theatre, the participation is such a valued part of the play that the cast even applaud the audience at the end of the performance.
“Before my first audition I went to see the play in London and I couldn’t tell if something had actually gone wrong because people were shouting out from the audience. “The play wouldn’t exist without the audience reacting and being such good sports. It’s all part of the fun, you can never tell what’s really supposed to have happened!” Having premiered in London in 2012, the show is now performed in Hong Kong, New Zealand and on Broadway, with a UK tour currently underway. “I feel very lucky to be travelling all over the country and performing in these beautiful venues and the play is all about bringing joy to people which is a really special thing to be a part of. “We had a couple who got in touch because they had an argument before they went to see the show and by time the performance was over they couldn’t stay angry at each other because they had so much fun.” And because Catherine was born and raised in Durham, she is especially looking forward to the tour dates which bring the play to the North.
“We’re in Darlington at the beginning of March, Newcastle at the beginning of July & Billingham in September and I can’t wait to be back in the Northeast. I’m such a home bird and I really miss it when I’m away. “Annie usually has a Barnsley accent but for this run I’m playing her with a Geordie accent and I’m excited to bring that sense of familiarity to the northern audience.”
COMPETITION Win a pair of tickets to the first performance of The Play That Goes Wrong at Darlington Hippodrome on 5 March. Simply answer the following question:
What year did the play premiere in London? Entry details can be found on page 62 of this magazine. The Play That Goes Wrong will be playing at the Darlington Hippodrome between 5 – 10 March with tickets from £20. To book, call Darlington Hippodrome on 01325 244 659 or go to www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk. The show is also performing at the Forum Theatre, Billingham between 17 - 22 September. To book, call the Forum Theatre on 01642 552663 or visit www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk. Darlington Today | 21
For more information contact: Tel: 01325 365717 Email: sales@busseyarmstrong.co.uk
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Enjoy a Sunday Lunch If you aren’t successful in winning this competition, then why not take advantage of the hotel’s fantastic value Sunday Lunch.
£13.95 for 3 courses Pre-booking is essential, to make a reservation, call reception on 01325 380 222 Terms & Conditions 3 course Sunday lunch for 2 people with a bottle of wine. Pre-booking is essential. Subject to availability.
This family run business, based on a farm, is in a rural setting but within a modern, purpose built complex. Dawn and Jill are two sisters, who have over 20 years’ experience as skin care therapists. They are passionate about providing excellent customer service and treatments that meet the exacting requirements of their clients. They are both Dermalogica Experts, which means that they are amongst the most highly trained and recognised Dermalogica skin therapists in the world. The salon also has the accolade of being a member of the exclusive Dermalogica Circle, in
HOLIDAY INN WASHINGTON Holiday Inn Washington UK hotel is ideally located between historic Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle, just off junction 64 of the A1. This long-established hotel is well known for its friendly staff and warm welcome. With plenty of free parking, the hotel has an established restaurant Traders, and a contemporary lounge and bar area, serving drinks and light snacks. There are 136 fully air conditioned bedrooms at this hotel in Washington, including family and accessible rooms. Ideally placed for enjoying the many tourist attractions the area has to offer. So whether you fancy a day in historic Durham, a trip to the coastal areas of South Shields, a day back in
time visiting the award winning Beamish Museum, a day of retail therapy shopping at the famous intu Metrocentre or taking in the history and culture, not to mention the amazing restaurants, bars and shops that the city of Newcastle has to offer.
THE COMPETITION Win an overnight stay for 2 people in a luxurious double bedroom, fully inclusive of bed, breakfast and dinner with a bottle of wine in Traders Restaurant. Answer this question for a chance to win: What is the name of the hotel’s restaurant? Closing date for competitions is Friday 9th March 2018. Please see page 26 for entry details.
Holiday Inn, Washington, Emerson, Washington NE37 1LB 0191 4189400 | reservations@hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @HIWashington Like us on FaceBook Holiday Inn Washington
24 | Darlington Today
recognition for defining excellence. Their focus is to provide results driven treatments tailored to the need of their clients.
COMPETITION To Win a Dermalogoica treatment worth £60 simply answer the following question: How many years experience do Dawn and Jill have? Closing date for entries is 9th March. Please see page 26 for entry details.
Dawn is on the left & Jill on the right.
ADVERTORIAL
N WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT THE COQUETVALE Located in the nineteenth century country town of Rothbury, on the edge of the Northumberland National Park, The Coquetvale Hotel is perfect for a relaxing break in beautiful countryside or the ideal base for walking, cycling or many outdoor pursuits. The stunning Cragside House and grounds are a 5 minute drive away as are the breath-taking Simonside Hills. A little further afield Alnwick Castle and Gardens as well as the stunning coastline with Bamburgh Castle and Holy Island being landmarks. The Coquetvale Hotel offers the finest Northumberland welcome, offering 14 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms. Boasting a combination of double, twin, family and 2 stunning very recently refurbished superior suites. The hotel recognises that many of the visitors to this spectacular area are those of the 4-legged variety and therefore is very dog friendly. The grand restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern, with its high ceilings, featuring ornate rose and cornice, decorated in subtle grey and silver – with stunning double
aspect picturesque windows and views towards the Northumberland National Park and Coquet Valley. An experience team of Chefs offer tempting dishes, with many seasonal and daily specials, there truly is something for everyone. Not to mention the award winning breakfast, which boasts locally sourced ingredients. Afternoons teas served daily, and Sunday lunch from midday. The bar offers a diverse selection of wines, guest ales both on tap and bottle, premium spirits and fine wines. The bar is also accessible to our relaxing decked terrace with comfortable seating and panoramic views of Rothbury – weather permitting. Recently under new ownership, the family with a wealth of hotel experience and are focussed on delivery a truly special guest experience, in terms of both service and product so with that in mind have already commenced a gradual and discreet refurbishment programme of all areas. The Coquetvale, Station Road, Rothbury, NE65 7QH, Northumberland
Newly refurbish Superior king-size suite
READER OFFER Prosecco Afternoon tea with bed & breakfast for £95 per couple throughout February, March & April Upgrade to the Ingram or Cheviot suites for a supplement of £20.00 Call for more details on 01669 622900 or email stay@coquetvale.co.uk Visit our website www.coquetvale.co.uk
READER COMPETITION Win an overnight stay for 2 persons, in double or twin room fully inclusive of Northumbrian breakfast and 3 course evening meal. To be taken before end of April.
How many well appointed bedrooms does the Coquetvale Hotel have? Closing date for entries is 9th March 2018 and see page 26 for entry details.
Darlington Today | 25
A RARE GEM From aquamarines and amethysts to rubies and rose quartz, the Americanborn designer, who has made her home on Tyneside, sources the finest gems and crystals for her SALOME jewellery brand. And the designs, which celebrate the stones in their natural form, are finding favour as far afield as London and New York, Founded in 2015, SALOME’s bespoke, handmade, collections – stocked at Newcastle’s The Biscuit Factory and available online - were quickly snapped up by Edinburgh’s high end COVET store and Wolf & Badger, in London’s prestigious Mayfair. Such was the brand’s success that Wolf & Badger’s New York store and Hemline, in New Orleans’ fashionable French Quarter, followed suit. And sales of SALOME’s necklaces, earrings and bracelets have outstripped even Kellie’s most optimistic expectations. “Obviously I knew from the success of the collections in Britain that there was
Fashion conscious women across the world are snapping up jewellery created by North East designer Kellie Daniels – and now you could WIN a stunning necklace in our competition.
a strong and growing market for my jewellery,” said Kellie, “but even I had no idea it would catch on as quickly in the US as it has.” The collections – crafted with stones sourced from locations as diverse as California and the South Pacific – are designed to reflect the beauty of the natural world and, because of variations within the stones themselves, no two pieces are exactly alike. Among the collections within the SALOME brand are the newly released L’Etoile Collection – which features star cut stones in rare blue aventurine, noir quartz, and smoky quartz– and the more stylised Le Reve, which explores movement, suspension and light through natural stone and metal. SALOME’s Tribal Collection – featuring stones such as jasper, sapphire, aquamarine and labradorite – has proved particularly popular with fashionable US shoppers thanks to its extreme wearability and style – and now one of the pieces from the collection could be yours.
ENTER TO WIN To enter any of the Darlington Today
competitions please ensure you clearly mark on your entry the name of the competition that you are entering together with the answer to the question if there is one with your name, address and contact telephone number to:
Darlington Today Magazine competition, 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, Co. Durham, DL5 6LH (Please note any competition entries without full contact details and contact telephone numbers will be voided and not entered into the competition)
We are giving a beautiful necklace from the SALOME Tribal collection to the winner of our competition. With a retail value of £95, this long length gold, fringed necklace features semiprecious blue aventurine stones, which are said to bring prosperity, good luck and self-confidence to the wearer. To enter the competition to win the necklace, simply answer the following question. • When did Kellie found the SALOME jewellery brand? • Those not lucky enough to win, or who want to explore the full SALOME range – which also features precious gems such as ruby, sapphire, pearl, emerald and grey opal – can do so at www.salomedesigns.co.uk. Information can also be accessed via SALOME’s Instagram account (salome_ designs) while those who sign up to the website’s mailing list will be given advance notice about new designs and access to special offers.
Winners Darlington Today 64 A pair of tickets to see Cinderella G Smith of Newton Aycliffe Sunday lunch for 4 people - J Smith of Darlington Overnight reviver break at Ragdale Hall Spa - N Robdrup of Newton Aycliffe
Sunday lunch for 2 with wine at Mercure Kings Head- M Regan of Darlington
Holiday Inn Washington - overnight stay, dinner b&b with wine G Harkin of Newton Aycliffe
Broom Mill Skin Bar - £60 treatment - E Horsman of Evenwood
Overnight stay at the Coquetvale S Hamilton
BUY ONE PIZZA AT PIZZA HUT, DARLINGTON AND
GET ONE FREE ON MAIN MEALS Horsemarket, Darlington Tel: 01325 357711 TERMS AND CONDITIONS This advert entitles you to Buy one pizza get one free on main meals. Valid all day Monday to Sunday. Excludes buffet, kids meals, big sharer, take away deals, online order, kids birthday parties and any other promotions, vouchers offers or deals. Also excludes Valentine's day. Not available at Pizza Hut Delivery Units. All items are subject to availability. This advert cannot be redeemed for cash. Pizza Hut reserves the right to withdraw or amend this offer at any time and without prior notice. This advert can only be used once and is valid for a party size of up to 8 people. Deal only valid at Pizza Hut Restaurants - Darlington Horsemarket.
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Darlington Today | 27
A WHISTLE-STOP TOUR OF SOUTH EAST ASIA “You’re so brave!” family and friends said, “I can’t believe you’re heading off to the other side of the world all by yourself,” and honestly? Neither could I. On a whim, after a year of asking friends to join me on the adventure of a lifetime, I booked my trip. I’d saved. They hadn’t. And I wasn’t going to let the concept of travelling alone hold me back… Fast forward to the morning at Newcastle Airport and not even an overpriced pint and mindless scrolling on social media could calm my nerves. I was heading to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, and after 15 hours of flying and a pricey – £5.50 for a bottle of water pricey - two-hour layover in Dubai, I arrived in Bangkok – an
overwhelming city of sights, such as entire families on scooters, sky high buildings, exquisite, multi-floored shopping malls and beautiful, ornate temples.
A lot less touristy than its Thai sister,
Wanting to make the most of my three days in Thailand, I ventured off to the Bridge Over The River Kwai at Kanchanaburi for a ride on the death railway, saw Buddhist monks at one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples, Wat Pho – where the 150ft reclining Buddha lays, had a traditional Thai massage, ate Pad Thai whilst drinking a bottle of Chang, rode in the back of a colourfully lit tuk-tuk, and joined spectators to watch an American fellow eat a cockroach. As you do…
amount of killing fields, landmine
The next place on the whistle-stop tour was Cambodia – starting in the city of Siem Reap: home to the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat. Also home to the kindest and most attentive people you will (probably) ever meet. 28 | Darlington Today
Cambodia is a country still rebuilding from the atrocities of the 1970s Khmer Rouge regime where almost two million Cambodians died. The country’s mass victims and war museums highlight this, and although a sombre reminder, these places are a must-visit. The rest of my time in Siem Reap and the country’s capital, Phnom Penh, was spent exploring the Buddhist and Hindu temples at Angkor Wat – including the Tomb Raider temple, Ta Prohm, tasting traditional Khmer food, sailing through the floating villages, buying multiple $1 souvenirs from adorable street children and visiting the Daughters of Cambodia visitor centre in Phnom Penh – a place helping women and girls escape sex trafficking rings, by giving them a job where they can learn new skills and grow.
The final part of my itinerary was Vietnam – one of the most beautiful countries I have ever had the pleasure of visiting. Starting in Ho Chi Minh City – better known as Saigon – I started my Vietnam adventure 52 floors up with a long island iced tea in hand, at the city’s EON Heli Bar. Though a little pricey, the 360 view of the city was completely worth it. As I was meeting a friend from home, my time in Saigon was a little less cultural but an experience all the same.
I spent my days riding on the back of a scooter as we weaved through the chaotic traffic, trying to eat Beef Pho (a soupy delicious noodle dish) with chopsticks before giving up and using a fork, watching a group of new friends eat Quail’s foetus as a bar snack and shopping in the famous Ben Thanh market. Next and final stop was the country’s capital, Hanoi – with an additional day trip to UNESCO heritage site, Halong Bay, where I spent the entire day kayaking through the bay and exploring the caves. One word: amazing.
Hanoi’s highlights include Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, watching a water puppet theatre show, seeing the many street performances down the Hoan Kiem lake boulevard and visiting the Vietnamese Women’s Museum - which was incredibly inspiring. After six plane journeys, five cities, four new friends for life, three countries and two many cocktails, my South East Asia trip was over, but I came away with one adventure of a lifetime. Darlington Today | 29
WHAT’S ON THEATRE
Stewart Lee: Content Provider 20 March
Darlington Hippodrome Tel: 01325 244 659
After four years writing and performing his TV show Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, CONTENT PROVIDER is Stewart’s first brand new full-length show since the award-winning Carpet Remnant World. Tickets from £23
www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk
Blood Brothers 20 February – 24 February The captivating and moving tale of twins who are separated at birth and meet later in life with fateful consequences. Few musicals are as celebrated as the multi awardwinning Blood Brothers and the superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and Tell Me It’s Not True. Tickets from £23.50
David Walliams’ Awful Auntie 28 February – 4 March David Walliams’ much loved children’s book, Awful Auntie, comes to life in this production from the award-winning producers of Gangsta Granny. Watch the story move from page to stage with frights, fights, friendship and a very large owl. Tickets from £13
The Play that Goes Wrong 5 March – 10 March This multi award-winning West End comedy involves the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society’s attempts to stage a 1920s murder mystery with hilarious results when everything that could possibly go wrong, does. Tickets from £20
A Spoonful of Sherman 12 March – 14 March This delightful show brings three generations of award-winning Sherman music to life. This musical journey is a perfect show for the whole family, bringing along 100 years of Sherman family music on the show’s first ever UK tour. Tickets from £19.50
30 | Darlington Today
Music The Forum Music Centre Tel: 01325 363135 www.theforumonline.co.uk The Killerz - 17 February Tribute band, The Killerz, recreate the band’s music, look and energy to put on an atmospheric show featuring old and new chart hits like Mr Brightside, When You Were Young, Human and many more. Tickets £12
The Cureheads - 2 March The original The Cure tribute band, having been together since 1990 and celebrating 20 years together in 2010 with a world tour, The Cureheads bring the look, sound and feel of the band to the stage. Hear all the original hits from The Cure as well as classic album and B-side tracks. Tickets £12
Hey Beatles - 17 March Hey Beatles pride themselves on their authenticity and playing just as The Beatles did all those years ago. Using vintage instruments and kit with absolutely no backing tracks, they perform hits like Can’t Buy Me Love, Hey Jude, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds and many more. Tickets £12
Darlington Hippodrome Tel: 01325 244 659 www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk
The Illegal Eagles - 19 March The world’s number one Eagles tribute are back for another outstanding performance, promising
to put on an incredible show and delivering favourite Eagles songs. Featuring much-loved tracks like Hotel California, Life in the Fast Lane and Desperado. Tickets from £23
Exhibitions The Bowes Museum Tel: 01833 690606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Streatlam Castle: Rediscover the Home of John and Joséphine Bowes 25 November 2017 11 March 2018 The last remains of Streatlam Castle, county Durham, were blown up in March 1959, destroying all traces of the stately home which had been in the Bowes family for more than 500 years. Don’t miss the last chance to view this special exhibition which recreates a detailed picture of the Castle and its contents as they would have been during John Bowes’ lifetime.
A Portrait of Place 10 February - 13 May 2018 Displaying a series of the museum’s overlay, pushed bowl forms, with colours moving through the seasons, exploring the landscape of Teesdale & The Bowes Museum.
Jonathan Yeo: Skin Deep 10 March – 17 June 2018 In this UK exclusive, Yeo acclaimed worldwide for his depictions of public figures including Dennis Hopper, Nicole Kidman, Cara Delevingne, Damien Hirst, Malala Yousafzai, Tony Blair, and members of the Royal family - explores the processes involved in cosmetic surgery, what it tells us about an individual’s self-image, perceived cultural ideals of beauty, and the psychology behind an endless search for perfection.
All details were correct at the time of going to press. Please check with the individual venues before travelling as information may change.
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Darlington Today | 31
Creating dream gardens across the North East
Wilkinsons
Landscapes
from concept to completion...
www.wilkinsonslandscapes.co.uk
Block Paved Drives
We are a leading provider of landscape services to the region with many satisfied customers and a reputation for first class quality work
Patios Walls & Fencing Timber Decking Trellis & Pergolas Ponds & Water Features Planting Schemes Lawns and Borders
Call us today
Tel 01642 790409 or 01325 369777 The very best plants, at the very best prices
Wilkinsons Plant Centre
Visit our Plant Centre, to see inspirational show gardens and the largest selection of plants in the North East Opening Times Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Closed on a Sunday from the end of October until the first Sunday in March.
www.wilkinsonsplantcentre.co.uk
Wilkinsons Plant Centre, East Brocks Farm, Eaglescliffe, Stockton on Tees, TS16 0QH Find us on the A67 midway between Yarm & Teesside Airport