Darlington Today - Issue 47

Issue 47 - Feb/March 2015 ISSN 1745-4654

Local news Interviews Events Competitions and more‌

local, relevant and entertaining WELCOME Hello everyone and welcome to the first Darlington Today of 2015.

I hope you’re all making the most of this fabulous new year and are looking forward to all the fun things ahead, like the fantastic events included in our What’s On pages (p28).

I for one am particularly excited about this year’s Jabberwocky Market, which is bringing a unique mix of audiencefocussed theatre to Darlington in March -full details page 15.

CONTENTS put your feet up and enjoy our interview with the Rumours of Fleetwood Mac (p9), guide to half term activities (p.23) and exploration of the history behind Valentine’s Day (p.10).

You can also try your hand in the kitchen with our romantic, seafood recipes (p.13) and enter a host of competitions, including the chance to win a stay at Lumley Castle Hotel (p.27).

Good luck and happy reading…

4

NEWS

9

RUMOUR HAS IT

Stories from around the town

Gig preview with Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

10 A PRISONER OF LOVE

The true meaning behind Valentine’s Day

12 ROMANTIC RECIPIES

Seafood dishes to keep them hooked

Over the past few weeks I’ve also had the privilege to learn more about some of the amazing things that are already happening in homes and businesses across the town, including DISC, which has developed a charter for young carers and Bean 4 Coffee shop, which has been raising money for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund.

15 SETTING THE STAGE

These inspirational stories, detailed on page 19, along with the positive achievements featured on our regular news pages (p4), are a reminder of how everyone can strive for success in the months ahead.

WINNERS

If you do need a break from all that hard work though, then I hope you’ll

Cover image: Soprano Elena Dee as Cio Cio San (Madama Butterfly)

6

A unique theatre festival returns to Darlington

19 REAL LIFE STORIES

Two inspiring tales from local residents

21 FUN FOR ALL

THE FAMILY

13

DT 46 WINNERS The winner of a pair of tickets to see Chuckles of Oz at Darlington Civic Theatre is: P Reese of Darlington A Pearl of Life Pendant went to: S Baker of Darlington An overnight stay for two at BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel goes to: Helen Frazer of Darlington The lucky winner of a Red carpet make over at Hooker & Young Darlington is: Natalie Robdrup of Newton Aycliffe A wireless JAM speaker went to: E Bailey of Darlington The winner of a Hair Dryer and Styler is: C Johnson of Aycliffe An overnight stay for two at BEST WESTERN Cedar Court Bradford goes to: Terri Brydon of Richmond An overnight Stay for two at Ramside Hall Hotel goes to: Glynn Alexander-Smith of Darlington

Activities for all ages in February half term

27 HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Win a stay at top wedding venue, Lumley Castle Hotel

30 WHAT’S ON

Things to do during February and March

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING Riney Publishing Limited, Sue Riney-Smith t: 01325 304360 e: sue.riney@btinternet.com

EDITORIAL Bernice Saltzer, Claire Buchan, Sorted PR t: 0191 265 6111 e: bernice@sortedpr.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.

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.

LOCAL NEWS FUNDRAISING WITH A SMILE More than 100 young children are set to benefit from life-changing surgeries thanks to money raised by Bannatyne’s Health Clubs.

Six clubs across the region, including Darlington, held a variety of events, such as fancy dress Zumba and Aerobics, to raise more than £15,000 for Operation Smile.

The international children’s medical charity, for which Duncan Bannatyne is an ambassador, provides free reconstructive

surgery for children born with

facial deformities such as cleft lip

and cleft palate.

Duncan Bannatyne meets a young patient on a trip with Operation Smile UK

Peter Robinson, executive chairman at NFTG

BUILDING A NEW CAREER Nordic Focus Training Group (NFTG) has crafted a new, bespoke programme to help ex-military staff gain employment.

The scheme, created on behalf of Persimmon Homes, will train former Army, Royal Navy and RAF personnel for a career in construction and help Persimmon to reach its target of building 13,000 new homes in the next year.

It is currently being piloted at NFTG’s new training centre in Darlington, with plans to expand into London and nationwide. For more information visit www.nftg.co.uk

West Park Academy’s eco-warriors with the flag

FLYING THE FLAG Students at Holy Family RC Primary watch MP Jenny Chapman cut the ribbon on their new library

A NEW CHAPTER FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL Young readers are being inspired to dive into a good book after parents raised more than £10,000 for a new school library.

The school council and a special parents’ steering group were also instrumental in designing the new site at Holy Family RC Primary School, which houses comfortable seating and shelves of alphabetised books.

It was officially opened by Darlington MP Jenny Chapman and named the Gerard Lavender Library, in honour of a former parish priest and school governor.

4 | Darlington Today

Primary school pupils are now flying the flag for the environment after becoming the first in Darlington to secure a special award.

Year 5 and 6 students at West Park Academy, were granted a Green Flag by the prestigious Eco-Schools programme in recognition for their efforts to protect the planet.

A team of 11 eco-warriors, aged between 10 and 11, were particularly instrumental in achieving the award and hold regular lunchtime meetings to discuss ways of limiting the school’s environmental impact.

Star Radio’s Managing Director John Clayton

LAUGHTER ON THE AIRWAVES Star Radio and the Hilarity Bites Comedy Club have joined forces for a new show highlighting the region’s comedic talent.

Hilarity Bites the Week, the first radio programme of its kind in the North East, takes a side-splitting look at the latest news, as well as featuring visits to people and places of interest across the region.

It is currently being broadcast by the Darlington-based radio station from 9pm until 10pm every Sunday, with previous broadcasts available to download at www.starradionortheast.co.uk

MONTHLY LUNCH CLUB AT AYCLIFFE VILLAGE HALL Aycliffe Village Hall is set to start a lunch club which will be held on the first Friday of each month with the first one due to take place on 6 March from 12.30pm till 2.30pm.

We decided to hold the club on a weekday to encourage older residents of the Village to get out and meet up with friends on a regular basis, without having to travel too far, while also helping to support the Village Hall, which is the hub of our beautiful little village.

Pic caption: Tim Catterall, of Catterall and Co, with Magnet design consultant Imogen Barber The new hair salon at Springfield Care Home

FLYING HIGH AT CARE HOME Staff and residents at a Darlington care home are making use of new dementiafriendly wing.

The £75,000 development at Springfield Care Home, Wylam Avenue, took around five weeks to complete and boasts a number of en-suite bedrooms, along with a sensory room, physiotherapy clinic and hair salon.

Director, Natalie Savage, said she hoped it would offer residents an even greater “quality of life and help boost their general health and wellbeing.”

ATTRACTING BIG BUSINESS Leading kitchen fitter, Magnet Ltd, has launched a new flagship store in Darlington.

The 12,000sq ft building, at Yarm Road Interchange Business Park, boasts a contemporary kitchen showroom, trade counter and warehouse.

It follows the arrival of Screwfix and Yess Electrical who both moved into the first phase of the 20 acre development, marketed

by Sanderson Weatherall and Catterall and Co, in 2013.

MUSICAL MARVELS Two members of Darlington Youth Brass Band can be forgiven for blowing their own trumpets after achieving the highest possible standards in their respective instruments.

Trumpeter Matthew Robinson, 16, and cornet player Shannon Webb, 17, have both been awarded the coveted grade 8 with distinction - a level normally achieved by musicians of a much greater age.

For Matthew, head boy at Haughton Academy, this marks the culmination of eight years of hard work, while Shannon, who studies at Carmel College, has also been playing since the age of nine.

Matthew Robinson and Shannon Webb

For just £5 you will enjoy a mouth-watering fixed menu 2 course meal followed by a hot drink.

Advance bookings are essential and must be made at least 7 days in advance at which point you will be given the menu for that month.

If you would like more information or to book lunch for 6 March please contact Caren on 01325 313179 after 3.30pm weekdays and all day weekends.

We hope to see many of you there!

Darlington Today | 5

WHAT’S APP-ENING?

EMOTIONAL OPERA FLIES ONTO THE STAGE

Distinct Darlington is launching a new app to deliver a range of incentives for shoppers and businesses.

Theatre-goers may struggle to hold back the tears as a new, emotional production of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly hits the stage.

The app, available from February 23, will include information about events and special deals in the town centre, as well as offering drivers the chance to top up their car parking without the need to return to their car.

Shoppers using the app will also be able to take advantage of a bespoke loyalty scheme that’s unique to each participating business, giving businesses the chance to boost their footfall.

For more information please visit www.distinctdarlington.co.uk or give the BID team a call on 01325 463002.

HORRIBLE HISTORIES COMES TO STAGECOACH!!

In a ground-breaking collaboration with the producers of the 2015 theatre tour of ‘The Horrible Histories The Groovy Greeks’, Stagecoach Darlington and Yarm are getting involved with staging their own versions of the same musical show.

Children involved can then attend a local performance of the professional show at Darlington civic in June 2015, with a cutprice ticket to see how the professionals deal with the same material that they were using.

All wonderful theatre training BUT ALSO TREMENDOUS FUN. The comical and quirky ‘Horrible Histories’ series of books, theatre shows and TV programmes are hugely popular with young people of all ages, whilst remaining educationally valuable at school - the ‘best bits of history with the boring bits left out.’

RING 01325 337667 for details of the remaining vacancies for this exciting project.

6 | Darlington Today

The popular opera, which was used as the basis for West End musical Miss Saigon, tells the heartbreaking story of a beautiful Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant with dire consequences.

It will be staged at Darlington Civic Theatre on Wednesday March 25, with magnificent sets by renowned Ukrainian designer Nadia Shvets and handpicked soloists from the national operas of Odessa, Spain and Rostov.

A number of dancers from Darlington will also join the 70-strong cast, with highlights set to include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

Tickets for Madama Butterfly, which is being revived by award-winning opera producer Ellen Kent, are available from the Darlington Civic Theatre box office on 01325 486555 or www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk, priced from £27.

More information can also be found online at www.ellenkent.com or by following @ OperaBalletIntl on Twitter.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to Madama Butterfly at Darlington Civic Theatre simply answer the following question:

WIN

What West End musical was based on Madama Butterfly?

Send your name and contact details to the address on page 27 before 27 February to be entered into the draw.

ANOTHER TREE-MENDOUS RESULT! More than £4000 has been raised during St Teresa’s Hospice’s biggest ever Christmas Tree Collection.

The seasonal campaign, run in partnership with Darlington Rotary Club, offers households across Darlington and the surrounding areas the chance to have their old Christmas tree taken away and recycled, in exchange for a small charitable donation.

This year around 40 volunteers collected 500 trees, with many using their own vehicles along with those donated by Enterprise Rent-a-Car and Sherwoods, Darlington.

More than £4000 was raised in total, with the proceeds being split between St Teresa’s Hospice and other Rotary Club charities.

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And if you purchase 2 links the bracelet is FREE until 14th feb.

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For more information please contact:

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Early Bird Served from 4-7pm Monday-Friday 2 courses for only £10

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RUMOUR HAS IT Rumour has it that a taste of pure ‘mac-emotion’ is heading our way, courtesy of one of the UK’s leading tribute acts. We spoke to producer and band member Allan Cosgrove to find out more…

Since bursting onto the charts in 1967, Fleetwood Mac has stolen the hearts of music lovers everywhere with hits such as Albatross, Little Lies and Go Your Own Way. The band’s popular Rumours album, originally released in 1977, remains one of the most successful in recorded history, with more than 40 million copies sold worldwide.

Over the years this multi-award winning act has spawned many imitations but none as authentic or longstanding as Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. The international tribute act, which has been approved by Mick Fleetwood himself, is currently touring across the UK with a stop off in Darlington planned for March - not bad for a band that was formed by accident.

“Rumours of Fleetwood Mac really started by chance,” explains producer and drummer Allan Cosgrove. “We were just a group of session musicians who’d been brought together to record a song for an advert. It was supposed to sound like 70s band Heart but it came out sounding like Fleetwood Mac. “Back then tribute acts weren’t really a big thing but the likeness seemed too good to ignore. We played a couple of gigs and the crowd reaction was so fantastic that we knew this was something we needed to explore, especially as we held a passing resemblance to the group as well.”

More than 14 years later, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac have performed for more than 500,000 people around the world and show no signs of slowing down.

The band’s five core members, who all count themselves as huge fans of the original band, are currently balancing their own musical careers with a 56-date UK tour, ending at Darlington Civic Theatre on March 27.

Allan said: “This tour is about spreading our own brand of ‘mac-emotion’ across the UK. “For those who have seen us before it will be an entirely new show, capturing both the spirit of Fleetwood Mac and our own, deep, love for the group’s music.

“We’ll be performing many well-known hits, as well as a few surprises, with a set list designed to encapsulate the unique mix of pop, country and blues that is evident across Fleetwood Mac’s almost 50 year anthology.”

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac will be performing at Darlington Civic Theatre on March 27. Tickets, priced at £23.50 each or £21.50 concessions, are available now by calling 01325 486555 or visiting www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk More details about the band can be found at www.rumoursfm.com

WIN! For your chance to win a pair of tickets to see Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at Darlington Civic Theatre on March 27, simply answer the following question: What was the name of Fleetwood Mac’s popular album, realised in 1977, which this tribute act is also named after?

Send your answer, along with your name and contact information to the address on page 27 by 27 February 2015 and the first correct entry drawn at random will win.

Darlington Today | 9

A Prisoner of Love

Crime, imprisonment and execution - not the most starry-eyed of sentiments but these macabre acts are believed to have inspired the most romantic day of the year…

On February 14 2015 more than a billion cards will be exchanged around the world, many accompanied by flowers, chocolates and declarations of love.

But the story behind this heartfelt holiday is not one of adoration and happiness but of misery and martyrdom, resulting in the death of St Valentine in approximately 289 AD. At this time the Roman Empire was in turmoil and facing an imminent threat of invasion. Believing that unmarried men made better soldiers to defend his territory, Emperor Claudius II made the bold decision to ban marriage among young people.

Bishop Valentine of Rome was adamant that this action betrayed God’s will and continued to perform marriage ceremonies in secret. He was eventually caught and sentenced to imprisonment, torture and ultimately death, with his beheading believed to have taken place on February 14.

During his time in jail, the Bishop is said to have fallen in love with the jailer’s daughter and sent her a note just before his execution signed,” from your Valentine” - a possible precursor to today’s use of cards.

The first official St Valentine’s Day was declared by Pope Galasius on February 14, 496 AD, though debate remains as to whether this was in honour of the Bishop or in reference to the pagan fertility festival of Lupercalia, which

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

10 | Darlington Today

had been marked on February 13, 14 and 15 in Ancient Rome.

Whatever the true inspiration, Valentine’s Day has now become synonymous with love and affection, thanks in no small part to acclaimed authors such as Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare who popularised the notion in their work.

The way we pay homage to the Patron Saint of Lovers today can arguably be traced back to 1913, when Hallmark produced its first Valentine’s card.

While love notes had been passed before, this, for the cynical among you, marked the start of the commercialisation of February 14, which has now spawned a multi-billion pound industry worldwide.

But, however you chose to mark Valentine’s Day this year and beyond, remember to spare a thought for the Bishop Valentine and his unwavering faith in the power of love.

While the giving of gifts and cards has become almost obligatory, this is a day when it’s truly the thought that counts.

So, whether you choose to exchange presents, treat them to an evening out or simply stay in and cuddle up at home, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with the ones you love and to show your affection for partners, family and friends.

Godiva has teamed up with Darlington Today Magazine to give 10 lucky readers a chance to indulge their dark side with a box of Godiva New Heart Shaped Dark Truffle Biscuits.

The ever-so-innocent golden biscuits have been topped with a decadent dark chocolate truffle heart, making each bite a contrast of sweet biscuit crunch and soft, rich, dark chocolate truffle.

Beautifully presented in sky blue and gold ‘passport stamped’ packaging, these sophisticated biscuits will whisk you away to somewhere wicked, from wherever

you choose to enjoy them. No dunking allowed.

Priced at £7 and available in stores and online at www.godivachocolates.co.uk Weight 100 grams, 12 biscuits.

Simply answer this question to win: What colour is the packaging that these delightful truffle biscuits are presented in?

See foot of page 27 for entry details Closing date for entries 27 February 2015

Romantic Recipes

There may be plenty more fish in the sea but if you’re already bagged yourself a prize catch then these romantic recipes should help keep them hooked through Valentine’s Day and beyond…

Salmon Fishcakes Prep time: 4 minutes | Cooking time: 16-20 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients 1 x 170g can skinless and boneless pink salmon 225g mashed potato (make your own in advance or use ready made) Zest ½ lemon ½ tbsp chopped fresh parsley ½ tbsp chopped fresh dill Vegetable oil, to grease 1.5tbsp plain flour 1 egg beaten (you’ll only use half) 50g dried breadcrumbs Salad leaves, to serve Method: 1. Flake the tinned salmon and mix with the mashed potato, lemon zest and fresh herbs. Season with black pepper and mix well.

2. Divide the mixture into two and shape into fishcakes - a cookie cutter will help to create a clean heart shape or you can try by hand. Place the fishcakes on a plate, cover and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas mark 4. Grease a baking tray with oil.

4. Place the flour, half the egg mixture and the breadcrumbs into three separate, shallow bowls. Remove the fishcakes from the fridge and dip each into the flour. Shake off any excess flour, then dip into the egg and finally coat in the breadcrumbs.

5. Place the fishcakes on the prepared baking tray and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until crisp and golden on the outside. Serve with salad leaves.

Recipes from Fish is the Dish by Seafish 12 | Darlington Today

Oriental Monkfish Kebabs Prep time: 10-12 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients: 340g monkfish fillet 1 tbsp reduced-salt dark soy sauce 1 tbsp clear honey ½ tsp dried chilli flakes 1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks 300g straight-to-wok egg noodles Handful baby spinach leaves, to serve 4 bamboo skewers, soaked for 20 min in water Method: 1. Wash and pat dry the monkfish, then cut into 2.5cm cubes.

Place in a shallow dish and toss with the soy sauce, honey and dried chilli flakes. Set aside for 15 minutes.

2. Drain the fish, reserving the marinade, and thread onto the four skewers along with the red and yellow peppers.

3. Preheat the grill to medium/hot. Arrange the skewers on the grill rack and brush with the reserved marinade. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through and brushing with more marinade, until tender and cooked through.

4. While cooking, prepare the noodles according to the pack instructions, stirring in any remaining red and yellow pepper.

5. Arrange the spinach on two serving plates, top with the monkfish skewers and serve with the noodles.

Lightwater Valley

Fab Feb Family Fun Thursday 19 – Sunday 22 February 10am – 4pm

Enjoy a fab family day out with heaps of things to do both indoors and outdoors!

Over 20 rides and attractions including: Fairground Rides • Angry Birds Activity Park • Birds of Prey • Reptile Handling Bouncy Castles • Giant Slides • Gladiator Dual • Assault Course • Ball Pools • Bungee Run Entrance £5 per person. Free entry for: Under 2’s, Over 60’s and Lightwater Valley Season Ticket Holders.

Only selected rides in the Theme Park are open – visit website for details.

lightwatervalley.co.uk/fabfeb

Lightwater Valley, North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. Tel: 0871 720 0011†

†Calls

are charged at 10 pence per minute from a BT landline, calls from other networks and mobiles will be considerably more.

Angry Birds™ & © 2009 – 2013 Rovio Entertainment Ltd. All rights reserved.

Darlington Today | 13

SETTING THE STAGE

Scratch Night Friday March 27, Quaker Meeting House

A gladiator, a former prisoner and even a human seal - get ready to meet these interesting characters and many more, at the return of one of Darlington’s most unusual events…

The Frights Saturday March 28, Quaker Meeting House

Since its launch in October 2013, Jabberwocky Market has enthralled visitors of all ages with its unique offering of world-class theatre, played out twice yearly in venues across Darlington.

Lorraine and Alan Saturday March 28, Quaker Meeting House

This March, the popular festival is returning with four days of new performances, all designed to put audiences at the heart of the action, as producer Caroline Pearce explains.

“This year we’re bringing together a diverse mix of stories that you simply wouldn’t get to see anywhere else,” she said.

“The line-up has been chosen very deliberately to appeal to a wide age range, from families looking for a quick introduction to live theatre, to the older people and students who frequented events at the former arts centre.”

“What all of the shows have in common though, is their ability to draw the audience in and, in some cases, make them an active part of the story. It’s a unique experience and one we’re delighted to be bringing back to Darlington town centre.”

The Jabberwocky Market, organised in partnership with the internationally-renowned Battersea Arts Centre and with core funding from Arts Council England and the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, will run from Thursday March 26 to Sunday March 29.

Background Image © GLORIATOR

Performers from across Darlington are invited to test their work and receive feedback from the audience. This is a great way to see shows at the early stages of development and spot some emerging talent.

Based around activist Hannah and her struggle to adjust back to life with her boyfriend Luke following three months of captivity overseas, the Frights is a twisting, darkly funny play exploring the shades of right and wrong.

Image © Lorraine & Alan

Some of the highlights at the event, which is also supported by Creative Darlington, Darlington for Culture, Darlington Council and the Jerwood Foundation, include: The Adventure Thursday March 26 Board a bus from the town centre to a secret location, where you’ll join an intrepid gang of young detectives to solve the abduction of a famous scientist.

This unique hour of funny, scary and inventive, interactive theatre is designed for ages eight to 11 and described as Scooby Doo meets Famous Five and the Crystal Maze.

Gloriator Thursday March 26 - Quaker Meeting House Almost 15 years after the release of Ridley Scott’s epic, Gladiator, world-renowned French actress Gloria Delaneuf and her UK tour manager Josephine Cunningham, pay a hilarious homage to the Oscar-winning film with their own brand of bravery, honour - and costumes made out of cardboard.

A modern re-telling of the Selkie myth, Lorraine and Alan uses live electronic sound design, song and several hundred plastic bottles to tell the tale of a marine biologist who discovers a mysterious woman lying amongst the seals.

Tickets for all of these events and more, including a drop in session on a vintage bus and a live performance on a train, are available individually or as part of an all-access Festival Pass from www.jabberwockymarket.org.uk As part of Jabberwocky Market’s charitable aims, those feeling particularly generous can also participate in the festival’s Pay it Forward scheme, whereby they purchase tickets that are then given away to people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to attend.

A temporary ticket office will be set up in a brand new initiative in the town centre from March 12, with a very limited number of tickets also available on the door at each show.

For more information and updates about Jabberwocky Market and accompanying events taking place at other venues, including the official bar, Voodoo Café, search JabberwockyMarket on Facebook or follow @JabbMarket on Twitter.

Darlington Today | 15

Awarded 5 stars for customer satisfaction

Yiewsley Manor

Yiewsley Drive

Darlington

Get into gear!

Part exchange with Bellway.

We’ll buy yours so you can buy ours!

Part exchange benefits include: • A good offer for your old home • Stay in your existing home until your new house is ready • No estate agents fees • Stress free move Available on selected plots only

Yiewsley Manor, a prestigious development featuring only sixty seven 4 bedroom executive homes on the former site of Mowden Park Rugby Club in Darlington.

4 bedroom homes from £259,995.

Call: 01325 350 074 Click: www.bellway.co.uk Visit: Monday 12pm - 5.30pm, Tuesday & Wednesday closed, Thursday 11am - 8pm, Friday - Sunday 11am - 5.30pm.

Prices correct at time of going to press. Specification on site may differ. Pictures for illustration purposes only.

*Bellway reserve the right to refuse a part exchange, terms & conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk

DL3 9XU

New phase at Yiewsley Manor launched in response to demand for new homes House builder, Bellway says that the New Year has got of to a good start. Demand for new homes at it’s Yiewsley Manor development in Darlington has resulted in Bellway launching the second phase of the development earlier than planned and it has already notched up a dozen sales.

Rob Armstrong, sales director at Bellway, said: “There is a lot of positive sentiment in the market place, we have sold 18 homes at Yiewsley Manor since August, interest rates are low and we can offer a range of incentives which is helping people to move.”

Yiewsley Manor which is situated in the sought after west end of Darlington and has been built on the former home of Mowden Park Rugby ground. In order to preserve the development’s exclusive appeal only sixty seven homes are being built and each will have off street parking and

benefit from private garden space. The layout, of the development is very family friendly featuring small groups of homes clustered together around quiet streets and cul-de-sacs.

Portland leads you into a large entrance area off which there is a study, downstairs WC and spacious lounge measuring 23’ 9” x 12’ 2” with French doors to the rear garden.

To ensure that Yiewsley Manor appeals to a broad selection of buyers, Bellway is offering eleven different designs which start in price from £259,995.

The kitchen is light and airy and provides plenty of work and cupboard space and features a com-prehensive range of integrated appliances. Adjoining the kitchen is a large dining area and family room with French doors to the rear garden.

Visitors to the development can view Bellway’s Portland show home which provides nearly 2,000 sq ft of living space. The stately pillared entrance of the

The first floor provides four good size bedrooms, the master features its own ensuite and dressing area, bedroom two can act as a guest bedroom and also features ensuite facilities. The family bathroom includes a large shower cubicle with low level tray, bath, pedestal sink and toilet.

Yiewsley Manor is ideally positioned within the catchment area of Darlington’s top schools, and higher education establishments, there are also a number of quality private schools

in the local area.

For buyers with a home to sell, Bellway can offer part-exchange arrangements, or will help you sell your existing home with their free off charge Express Mover service, where Bellway will appoint an estate agent on your behalf to market your old home.

Buyers can also take advantage of the Help to Buy scheme allowing you to buy a new home with a minimum 5% deposit and take advantage of a 5-year 20% interest free Government loan, meaning that you only require a 75% mortgage which will reduce monthly payments during the first 5 yeas of occupation.

For commuters, the A1 is close by and darlington station provides a regular service north and south.

For more information, visit www.bellway.co.uk or call the sales centre. Tel: 01325 350074 Monday 12.00pm - 5.30pm, Thursday 11.00am -8.00pm, Friday-Sunday 11.00-5.30pm.

JANUARY SALE At the Lightwater Country Shopping Village you’ll find up to 50% off on a wide range of items.

Ladieswear • Menswear • Accessories • Toys & Books • Soft Furnishings Sweet Treats • Cards & Wrapping • Pet Accessories • Kitchen & Homeware

Sunday Carvery

Lightwater Falconry Centre

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked carvery every Sunday between 12 and 3pm. Choose from three locally sourced roasts, home-made Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables and gravy.

Come and visit our Falconry Centre with over 50 birds and a variety of small animals and reptiles.

£7.95 per person or £5.25 small appetite.

Open Wednesday – Sunday 11am – 2pm Entry just £2.50 per person

Open 7 days a week 10am – 4.30pm, with free parking. lightwatercountryshopping.co.uk North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. Tel: 01765 635321 So easy to find, just off junction 50 of the A1m, North of Ripon.

REAL LIFE

Pic: Stephanie Swales (right) holds the charter with parent support advisor Tracey Charlton and Reid Street Primary School senior vice principal Jane Knowlson.

CARING FOR THE YOUNG It’s said that growing up is hard to do but, for the estimated 200,000 young people currently caring for a friend or relative across the UK, early adulthood can be even more complicated.

One Darlington organisation, recently visited by His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester to celebrate its 30th anniversary, is now urging schools and colleges across the town to play their part in identifying young carers and ensuring they are given the necessary advice and support.

We spoke to Stephanie Swales, Education Support Worker at DISC Young Carers, to find out more…

“A young carer is identified as anyone aged 25 who provides practical and/or emotional care for a parent, sibling or family member with a long term illness, disability, mental health or drug/alcohol addiction,” she said.

“In many cases this can mean taking on a variety of household tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, caring for siblings and shopping, as well as offering emotional and sometimes even financial support.

“This increased responsibility can often lead to the young carer feeling isolated and falling behind in education, which is something we’re keen to avoid.

“Here at DISC we already offer a wide range of services to support young carers, including organised activities, short breaks and one-to-one guidance, but we need help to identify those who would benefit.

“To that end we’re asking schools and colleges across the town to sign up to a special Young Carers Charter, designed to ensure young people in a caring role are given the same opportunities as their peers and allow them the chance to reach their full potential.

“The charter, which has already been adopted by Reid Street Primary School and Hurworth School, is a partnership initiative between DISC, the NHS and Darlington Borough Council, who are working together as part of a continuous commitment to support young carers.

“It contains nine pledges, from assigning members of staff as points of contact to offering young carers a quiet place to talk, all aimed at encouraging young carers or their families to come forward confidentially and ensuring they have access to the necessary support once they do.”

For more information about DISC or the Young Carers Charter call 01325 483038 or visit www.disc-vol.org.uk. Further details can also be found by searching DISC Services on Facebook or Twitter.

HELP COMES FROM HEARTBREAK Looking at Darlington youngster Finlay Hill today, it’s hard to believe that the boisterous seven year suffered such a traumatic and difficult start in life.

But his proud family have not forgotten the heartache they endured and have since dedicated themselves to supporting the hospital unit they credit with saving their “little miracle”.

“Finlay was just a few weeks old when I realised something was wrong,” said his mum, Gayle Taylor, “but for almost eight months medical staff were puzzled by his condition.

“While X-rays revealed that his heart was enlarged to the size of a five year-old’s, no-one could really understand why and we were told that he’d need a heart transplant to have any chance of survival.

“Eventually staff at the specialist Children’s Heart Unit at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, identified the root cause as a dangerously narrow aorta, which had previously been masked by a virus.

“Thankfully they were able to operate and save Finlay without the need for a transplant and since then my family and I have tried to show our gratitude in whatever way we can.

“We now hold regular fundraisers for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF) and, with the help of my generous staff and customers at Bean 4 Coffee shop, at Faverdale, we have collected countless toys, treats and other essentials for patients and their families.

“Having spent almost three months practically living at the unit with Finlay I understand how much pressure this can put on a family, both emotionally and financially, and know that even the smallest helping hand can make a big difference.

“Despite having a slightly compromised immune system, Finlay has made a full recovery and it’s amazing to see him going off to school every day, especially as I know that not every parent is so lucky.

“While Finlay was in hospital three other children unfortunately lost their lives waiting for a transplant, so encouraging people to consider organ donation is something that’s very close to my heart now too.”

For more information about CHUF visit www.chuf.org.uk or call 0191 281 3166. You can also sign up to the Organ Donor Registry at www.organdonation.nhs.uk Darlington Today | 19

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Call Trudy on 01325 337667 or visit www.darlingtonandyarm.co.uk

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY School holidays can be both a blessing and a curse, with families struggling to make the most of their quality time together. Here at Darlington Today we know how hard it is to keep all ages entertained and have put together this helpful guide to some of the events and activities on offer during February half term...

HANG ON TIGHT Enjoy a family day out at Lightwater Valley, North Yorkshire, where you’ll find plenty to do indoors and out.

More than 20 of the theme park’s most popular rides and attractions will be open from Thursday February 19 to Sunday February 22, including fairground rides, giant indoor inflatables and The Angry Birds Activity Park and Angry Birds Space.

From 10am until 4pm each day you’ll also have the chance to visit the Lightwater Falconry Centre, home to more than 50 owls, eagles, hawks and friendly snakes.

Entry is £5 per person or free for season ticket holders, over 60s and those aged under two. For more details visit www.lightwatervalley.co.uk Closer to home, a variety of fairground rides will also be taking over Darlington’s Market Square between Monday February 16 and Friday February 20, where they will open daily from 10am until 5pm. For more details contact Phil Haymer on 01325 406417

DIVE IN The Dolphin Centre’s popular inflatables will be in the swimming pool from 2pm until 3.45pm, Monday to Saturday during the school holidays, offering families the chance to take on a 15m dual run float known as The Destroyer.

Please contact the Dolphin Centre reception on 01325 388406 for additional information.

DO THE LOCOMOTION National Railway Museum, Shildon will be welcoming a selection of locomotives from the television and film adaptations of The Railway Children from February 14 to 22 as part of its Winter Steam Gala.

There will also be free arts and craft activities for families throughout half term week, with The Railway Children being screened at 1.30pm on Saturday and Sunday February 14, 15, 21 and 22 and on Wednesday February 18.

Tickets for the screening are free but spaces are limited, so please book in advance by calling 01388 771439. More details can also be found at www.nrm.org.uk

STEP BACK IN TIME Experience life in a World War I training camp with a series of themed activities at Beamish the Living Museum of the North.

Visit between Saturday February 14 and Sunday February 22 and you’ll have the chance to be put through your paces in fitness training, take part in a variety of leisure activities and sample a field kitchen.

It’s all included in the normal admission price and marks 100 years since the outbreak of the war.

For more information, like Beamish Living Museum on Facebook, follow Beamish_Museum on Twitter or visit www.beamish.org.uk/half-termactivities/

All details correct at the time of publication, please check before attending.

TAKE TO THE TRACK

GET CRAFTY

Aspiring drivers, aged 13 to 18, can get behind the wheel of a Mini Cooper S under the guidance of advanced driving instructors at Croft Circuit. The New Starter Driving Experience, priced at £99 per person, is available on Thursday 19 or Friday 20 February and lasts around two hours. To book visit www.croftcircuit.co.uk/ experiences/new-starter

History and heritage education specialist, Richard F. Stevenson, better known as ‘That History Bloke’, will be hosting Tudor-themed activities for children at the Head of Steam - Darlington Railway Museum, from 11am to 3pm on Thursday February 19.

TALK TO THE ANIMALS

Normal admission charges apply for both events and family members go free. For more information call 01325 460532 or email headofsteam@darlington.gov.uk

The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, will be hosting a Birds Galore Family Fun Day from 11am until 4pm on February 17, where visitors of all ages can learn about different types of birds, create bird inspired crafts and explore the museum using a special themed trail. Normal admission charge applies for both adults and children at this event.

Then, on February 18 and 20, Jay’s Animal Encounters will host a special workshop, featuring tarantulas, snakes, scorpions and other creatures. Places for this event, priced at £5 per child, must be booked in advance by calling 01833 690606. Accompanying adults go free.

Additional details and start times are available at www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

The Station Road venue will also be offering an additional afternoon of children’s crafts from 11am until 3pm on Friday February 20.

CAST A SPELL Fancy yourself as the next Harry Potter? Lumley Castle, Chester-leStreet, will be hosting a School of Witches and Wizards on Thursday February 19, including a three course banquet, disco and a complimentary drink.

There will also be magic from the Great Wizard, a chance to see owls and hawks in the castle’s courtyard and a free goody bag for children.

Tickets, priced at £16 for ages five to 12 and £29 for adults, are available online a www.lumleycastle.com or by calling 0191 3891111

Darlington Today | 21

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amongst the best in the school’s history. I would like to congratulate everyone on this tremendous achievement”.

Mr Alex Taylor continued: “At Red House School we encourage children to not only achieve their full potential academically but to excel in all aspects of school life.

Pupils jump for joy as Red House School, for the second year running, is ranked the Top Co-Educational Independent School in England, without a sixth form, in the Sunday Times Parent Power League Tables.

Red House School, in Norton, has once again been ranked the top co-educational independent school, without a sixth form, in England in the latest Sunday Times Parent Power league tables.

Mr Alex Taylor, Headmaster, said: “We are delighted that we have maintained our ranking as the top co-educational independent school, without a sixth form, in England. This is the second year running that we have achieved this position.

We consistently achieve outstanding GCSE results and last summer, our results were 22 | Darlington Today

Through sport, music and our wide range of co-curricular activities children are encouraged to develop their individual gifts, talents, skills and knowledge so that they become confident individuals.

We also ensure that small class sizes are maintained so that our dedicated teachers are able to recognise and nurture these individual talents.

We provide a warm and caring family environment where teachers, pupils and parents work closely together to create a genuine sense of community”.

Red House School is also celebrating the news that pupil, Aditi Rangan, will attend the House of Lords after the wining a Prestigious National Award for her GCSE Achievements.

The prize, which is the Independent Schools Association’s (ISA) Whitbread Prize, recognises achievements at GCSE. Pupils from across the country are

nominated by their school for the award. Aditi achieved A* grades in all 11 subjects she took at Red House and in addition she achieved much more besides during her time at the School.

Aditi passed her grade 6 on the violin and grade 7 on the piano and was a member of the Tees Valley Youth Orchestra. She achieved grade 8 in speech and drama and on many occasions entertained everyone on stage with her sparkling personality and wit.

She represented the School in the English Speaking Union’s Public Speaking competition reaching the national finals in London. Aditi also represented the School in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Top of The Bench competition throughout Years 9, 10 and 11. In addition she played both netball and hockey for the School.

In February Aditi will travel, with her parents, to London to be presented with her prize by Lord Lexden, President of ISA, at the House of Lords.

Mr Alex Taylor, Headmaster, said: “This is a well-deserved accolade to a very able and talented student who throughout her time at Red House School involved herself in all that was on offer and worked with great determination and industry to achieve stupendous results, I have no doubt that Aditi will go on to achieve much more in the future and all at Red House School send her our congratulations”.

OUR EARLY YEARS MAKE SUCH A DIFFERENCE TO THE PERSON WE GROW UP TO BE At Red House School we keep the whole journey in mind. Our experience shows that a well-rounded education, filled with cocurricular activities, leads to so much more than academic success. Children discover the confidence to grasp the opportunities that life will present beyond the classroom.

Of course academic success matters and our record backs that up; we have been ranked the Number 1 Co-Educational Independent School in England without a sixth form, for the last two years, in the Sunday Times Parent Power League Tables, but at Red House we believe that exam results are not the sole indicator of a child’s capabilities. That is why we create a positive and supportive environment where children are nurtured to achieve their full potential, not only academically, but in all aspects of school life.

Indeed, we know that academic improvement often stems from the self-belief found in sport, music, theatre or travel.

Our school ethos is built around giving children a complete education: physical, intellectual and emotional development gained from a wide range of experiences within a broad and balanced curriculum.

Teachers are given the time to care for every child so that their individual talents emerge and develop. By retaining smaller classes, children feel more secure about contributing.

Red House School has a unique family atmosphere. We encourage parents to become involved in their child’s education, weaving a close-knit community among teachers, children and parents, so that the best

results are achieved.

The best way to experience life at Red House is to visit the school. Tours are available throughout the year. We are also holding a Nursery play and stay afternoon for children aged 2 - 4 on Friday 6th March 1.30 pm 3.00 pm. Places for this event are limited so prior booking is essential. Please contact Mrs Rosalind Green, School Secretary, on 01642 535353 or email rosalind.green@ redhouseschool.co.uk.

TEN TIPPED FOR THE TOP Ten students from Darlington’s Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College have won places at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

Competition for prestigious Oxbridge places is intense with only the highest achieving students gaining offers after undergoing challenging interviews. Two of the students have unconditional offers but the other eight places are dependent upon the students attaining top results in their final A Level exams.

Eight of the QE students have offers from Cambridge University and 2 have places at Oxford. The two students off to Oxford are Max Goodall to read Music at Homerton College and Amy Robson who has an unconditional offer for Geography from St Anne’s. Of the eight going to Cambridge, Alex Sowerby, Wesley Chow and Joe Wall will study Mathematics whilst Jasmin Abbott has a highly coveted place for medicine; Jessica Dobson will read Geography, Nick Heitler’s subject is Philosophy, whilst Alex Wall’s degree will be in History; Eve Crawshaw will take up her unconditional offer for Politics, Psychology and Sociology at King’s.

QE’s Principal, Tim Fisher, comments: ‘Once again QE has been highly successful in enabling outstanding young people to gain entry to Oxford and Cambridge, showing

Pictured: standing left to right: Nick Heitler, Max Goodall; seated at front left to right: Joe Wall, Alex Wall, Jessica Dobson, Wesley Chow

that our students can compete with the best in the world. To have ten students with Oxbridge offers is tremendous and testament to the high calibre of the students and the work their teachers do in preparing them for the next stage in their lives. I am exceptionally proud of their achievements.’

Darlington Today | 23

to fill

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

Competitions Darlington Today Exclusive Reader Offer

WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT BEST WESTERN DERWENT MANOR HOTEL Here is your chance to win a great winter stay.

Be welcomed with warming soup and bread roll, whilst relaxing in the comfortable surroundings of the Grouse and Claret Bar. Afterwards take a dip in the pool, relax in the Jacuzzi or work those calories off in the gym. Then enjoy a three course table d’hote dinner with a bottle of house wine at Guinevere’s Restaurant, before retiring to a comfy bed for a good night’s sleep and a hearty British breakfast the following day.

Offered in either a standard twin or double

room, for two people for one night.

To win answer this question: What is the name of the bar at BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel?

See foot of page 27 for entry details.

Closing date for entries is 27 February 2015 Terms and conditions: Subject to availability at time of request. Valid for two people one night in standard accommodation. Valid from February until end April.

BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel in Allensford Nr Consett is set in 20 acres of Northumberland countryside, overlooking the Derwent Valley. This country house hotel is the perfect rural retreat.

If you aren’t successful in winning the competition then why not take advantage of this fantastic offer for Darlington Today readers.

Only £90 per couple for one night in standard accommodation including welcoming warm soup and bread roll and a three course table d’hôte dinner with a bottle of house wine, waking up to a hearty British breakfast before departure.

Offer is subject to availability for dates February to end April. TO BOOK call reservations on 01207 592000 and quote DT15. Terms and conditions apply.

WIN MEN’S FRAGRANCE SET Even the manliest of men can smell their best, with the new eau de toilette from leading men’s grooming brand, The Bluebeards Revenge.

WIN YEAR’S SUPPLY OF CHILLED COFFEE Emmi CAFFÈ LATTE is coming to the rescue of busy bees everywhere with a delicious range of chilled, take-away coffees perfect for battling that afternoon slump.

There’s Cappuccino for traditionalists, Skinny for anyone watching their weight, Vanilla or Caramel for those with a sweet tooth and Decaff for those still wanting the CAFFÈ LATTE experience without the caffeine.

The range is available now at Tesco, Waitrose, Morrisons, Sainsburys and other leading retailers, priced at around £1.35 per coffee.

For your chance to win a year’s supply of Emmi CAFFÈ LATTE, worth more than £90, simply tell us what type of beans the coffees are made from?

Send your contact details and answer to the address on the bottom of page 27. The first two correct entries drawn at random after the closing date on 27 February 2015 will win a year’s supply each.

26 | Darlington Today

The modern fragrance, inspired by “the real life heroes and other larger than life characters that put the ‘Great’ into Great Britain,” features a rich blend of jasmine, black tea and watermint, with base notes of Madagascar vanilla, sandalwood, patchouli, oakmoss and musk.

It is now available in an easy to use atomiser spray as part of a special gift set, along with a stimulating and reviving shower gel, at bluebeards-revenge.co.uk/shop or via Tesco Direct.

For your chance to win one of four sets, valued at £24.99 each, simply answer the following question: The Blubeards Revenge logo, shown in the picture, features a traditional pirate emblem of a skull and crossed what?

Send your name and contact details to the address on the bottom of page 27 before 27 February 2015. The first four correct entries drawn after this date will receive one eau de toilette set each.

N WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W

Happily Ever After With the average UK wedding costing upwards of £20,000, many couples are putting off their big day and spending months or even years saving for a debtfree I Do. But, if you’re impatient to be husband and wife, then the answer could be just a short drive away at County Durham’s stunning, Lumley Castle Hotel…

For more than 600 years Lumley Castle has dominated the County Durham skyline, serving as a lasting reminder of a bygone age, in which chivalry, honour and romance were high on the agenda.

Today, those old-fashion values and modern, four star service, have helped establish Lumley Castle Hotel as a leading destination for weddings of all sizes, attracting couples from across the North East and wider UK. For budding brides and grooms in Darlington, the hotel is ideally located less than 30 miles up the A1 and boasts a selection of stunning state rooms and 73 ensuite bedrooms, all set within seven acres of beautiful parklands.

As an added incentive to make the trip, the hotel recently launched a new Fairytale Wedding package, offering couples the chance to wed for almost a tenth of the cost of the UK average.

The package, priced at £2500, incorporates everything required for an intimate ceremony and reception involving up to 40 guests, including use of the elegant Scarbrough Suite, complete with feature

ENTER TO WIN

fireplace and ornate carved ceiling, in which to exchange vows.

From there, guests will be escorted to the Northumbria Lounge and adjoining Northumbria Suite, where they will enjoy stunning countryside views, a welcome drink and mouthwatering, three course wedding breakfast, followed by a hot and cold evening buffet.

In a nod to Lumley Castle Hotel’s attention to detail, the Fairytale Wedding package also comes complete with a host of extras, such as a floral display for the top table, place cards, a table plan and use of a cake stand and knife, making organising a wedding as easy as possible, even at short notice.

Once the formalities are over the newlyweds can retire to one of the castle’s feature bedrooms, where they may even find a four poster bed or a bathroom hidden away behind a bookcase.

The Fairytale Wedding package is available at Lumley Castle Hotel until June 30 2015.

A full breakdown of the package, including costs for incorporating additional guests and services such as a DJ, can be found online at www.lumleycastle.com or by calling 0191 3891111.

Anyone who would like to find out more can book a showround at Lumley Castle by calling the wedding team on the number above, and will receive a free cream tea for up to two people at the end of their visit if they quote Darlington Today.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN… To celebrate Lumley Castle Hotel’s Fairytale Wedding package and its special showround offer exclusively for Darlington Today, we’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win an overnight stay for two, including breakfast.

For your chance to feel like king and queen of the castle, simply complete the following well-known phrase: “An Englishman’s home is his…”

Send your name and contact details to the address at the bottom of this page before 27 February 2015 to be entered into the draw.

Terms and conditions: Prize includes a one night stay for two in a castle feature bedroom with breakfast the following day and must be taken before November 30 2015. Management reserve the right to change these conditions.

Send your answers, along with your name, email, address and telephone number to: Darlington Today Magazine, c/o Riney Publishing Limited, PO Box 161, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6WD

Darlington Today | 27

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT 4 STAR BEST WESTERN CEDAR COURT - LEEDS BRADFORD The Cedar Court Hotel - Leeds / Bradford is so called because of its closeness to both of these vibrant Yorkshire cities. The hotel is located on the M606 motorway, which brings guests right to its doorstep from junction 26 on the M62, and offers ample free parking for those travelling by car.

This amazing location makes Cedar Court an ideal base for exploring Yorkshire during a weekend getaway, short break, family holiday or taking advantage of the shopping, dining and entertainment options available in nearby Leeds.

A warm Yorkshire welcome and four star services await you, with a wide range of facilities to guarantee a comfortable, relaxing and enjoyable stay.

The hotel boasts 130 bedrooms, consisting of doubles, twins, families and a few suites. All rooms, many of which were recently refurbished, are ensuite, and include complimentary Wi-Fi. The Cedar Court Hotel - Leeds / Bradford also boasts a fabulous leisure club with pool, sauna, solarium, Jacuzzi and state of the art gym.

Guests have a choice of dining options - to be welcomed with a fabulous afternoon tea of hand cut sandwiches, cream scone and cupcakes, served with tea or coffee, enjoy all day snacks and light meals in the bar and lounge or tuck into a three course dinner in the more formal Ocean restaurant.

After a good night’s sleep, wake to a hearty Yorkshire breakfast and maybe explore some more before heading home.

Answer this question to win: How many rooms does BEST WESTERN Cedar Court Hotel Leeds/Bradford boast?

See foot of page 27 for entry details.

Closing date for entries is 27 February 2015

Darlington Today Exclusive Reader Offer If you aren’t successful in winning this competition, then why not take advantage of this fantastic offer for Darlington Today readers.

Only £99 per couple for one night in standard accommodation including afternoon tea upon arrival, and a three course Table d’hôte dinner with bottle of house wine and waking up to a Yorkshire breakfast before departing.

Offer is subject to availability for dates February to end April.

To Book call Reservations on 01274 406606 option 1 to make your booking quoting reference DT15 salesenquiries@cedarcourtbradford.co.uk Terms and Conditions apply

Cedar Court Hotel - Leeds / Bradford, Mayo Avenue, Rooley Lane, Bradford BD5 8HW

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THEATRE Darlington Civic Theatre Box office: 01325 486 555 www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk *Includes £1 restoration levy

The Business of Murder Feb 10 - 14 This plot twisting play, which previously enjoyed a nine year run in London’s West End, stars Paul Opacic, best known for his roles in Emmerdale, Bad Girls and Hollyoaks, and former Casualty actor Robert Gwilym.

Tickets* £17 - £25.50

Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Feb 21 & 22 Quirky and courageous underwater adventure heroes, The Octonauts, are brought to life in this interactive, actionpacked and musical new stage show.

Tickets* from £13.50 adults and £11.50 children

Return to the Forbidden Planet Mar 2 - 7 The critically acclaimed Olivier Awardwinning rock spectacular, inspired by Shakespeare’s The Tempest, returns for 25th anniversary UK tour packed classics such as Heard it Through the Grapevine, Young Girl and Gloria.

Tickets* £19 - £29

Birdsong Mar 10 - 14 Based on the world famous novel

by Sebastian Faulks, Birdsong is a mesmerising story of love and courage, set both before and during the Great War. Tickets* £17 - £25.50

A View from the Bridge Mar 17 - 21 In celebration of the centenary of Arthur Miller’s birth, the Touring Consortium Theatre Company proudly presents one of his most magnificent masterpieces.

Tickets* £17.40 - £27

Madama Butterfly Mar 25 Tickets* £27, £29, £30, £34 Korean soprano Elena Dee stars in one of the world’s most popular operas, which tells the heart-breaking story of a beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant.

Tickets* £27 - £34

Champions of Magic Mar 31 Witness stunning illusions including disappearances, teleportation, levitation and a heart stopping finale that sees one performer walk through the spinning steel blades of a giant industrial fan.

Tickets* from £18.50 adults and £15.50 under 16s

30 | Darlington Today

MUSIC The Forum Music Centre Tel: 01325 363135 www.theforumonline.co.uk Stereosonics Feb 14

Darlington Civic Theatre Box office: 01325 486 555 www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk * Includes £1 restoration levy

Kast off Kinks Feb 18

Popular tribute to The Stereophonics with support from North East singer Dave Brittle Tickets £10

Former members of The Kinks, re-unite to perform hits including You Really Got Me, Sunny Afternoon, Waterloo Sunset and many more for a great night out!

Tickets* £19 & £21

Ma Kelly’s Boys Feb 20

Richard and Adam at the Movies Feb 19

A tribute to Status Quo with support from The Tom Atkinson Band Tickets £9

Talk Of the Town Feb 21 A tribute to the music of Chrissy Hynde & the Pretenders Tickets £7 advance (adv), £8 on the door (otd)

The Bryan Adams Experience Feb 27 A tribute to Canadian Rocker Bryan Adams Tickets £7adv/£8otd

Stipe Mar 6 A first time visit by the band that pays homage to American rockers REM. Tickets £7adv/£8otd

Darlington R’n’B Club presents The Producers Mar 13 One of the most exciting and stylish new wave bands on the circuit, Bournemouthbased The Producers are among the leaders of the current Blues phenomenon led by Joe Bonamassa and John Mayer.

Tickets £12

Following their appearance on Britain’s Got Talent and subsequent number one album, sensational Welsh singing brothers Richard and Adam promise an evening of silver screen classics such as Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Goldfinger and Moon River.

Tickets* £25 & £27

An Evening with Julian Lloyd Webber Feb 24

ONE TO WATCH

Oh My Poor Nerves Feb 13

Distinctly Delicious - Darlington Festival of Food brought around 45,000 visitors to the town in 2014 and this year looks set to be even bigger.

Valentine’s Saturday Market Feb 14

A welcome return from the Darlington punk rockers, with support from The Antiseptics.

Tickets £8

Darlington Civic Theatre is throwing open its doors for two days of fun family activities, including competitions, workshops, performances and guided tours. Entry is free but must be booked in advance by calling 01325 486555

Distinctly Delicious May 8 - 10

Queen II Mar 27

Major Accident ‘A Clockwork Return’ Mar 28

Family Open Weekend Feb 28 & Mar 1

EVENTS

Previous visits by this highly acclaimed Beautiful South / House Martins tribute have been a sell-out, so early booking is advised.

Tickets £10

The band faithfully recreates the energy, excitement and emotion of a classic Queen concert.

Tickets £10

Darlington Ramblers are hosting two walks in February and are inviting any potential members to take part. On Thursday 15 Feb they’ll be tackling nine miles around the Worton area and on Thursday 22 it’s a seven and a half mile trek around Wolsingham. Both meet at the old Arts Centre. For more information and start times call 01325 240306

The acclaimed musician offers an insight into his illustrious career, including clips of him performing and chatting with artists including Elton John and Katherine Jenkins. He’ll be joined on stage by his wife and fellow cellist Jiaxin Lloyd Webber and pianist Pam Chowhan to perform works by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rachmaninov, Fauré, Bach and many others.

Tickets* £19 & £21

The History Wardrobe presents Oh My Poor Nerves! - A fascinating insight into maladies, real and imaginary, with a splendid selection of medical artefacts and a very spirited invalid. Performance starts at the Bowes Museum at 7.00pm and booking is essential. Tickets, priced at £8.50, are available from the museum on 01325 405060.

The Southmartins Mar 14

Darlington Ramblers Feb 15 and 22

Enjoy a host of special themed music and entertainment at Blackwellgate and West Row, with a variety of stalls selling a range of Valentine’s Day gifts and cards from 9am until 5pm.

Chinese New Year Celebrations Feb 19 Darlington will celebrate Chinese New Year - the Year of the Sheep - in Joseph Pease Place between 12.45pm and 1.30pm.

Entry is free and open to all ages. For more information call 01325 388151

All details correct at the time of publication, please check before attending.

The popular festival, which returns in May, will include a producers’ market, street food and demonstrations from chefs from leading venues including Rockcliffe Hall and Houndgate Townhouse.

It will also mark the return of the second Distinctly Delicious Market Awards, product tastings and various drop-in workshops, along with the centrepiece of last year’s event - The Locomotion Cake Parade - this time on a Hansel and Gretel inspired theme.

There will also be some new additions for 2015, such as the Distinctly Delicious Festival Supper which will be held on the eve of the event.

For more information please visit www.distinctdarlington.co.uk or to take part in the festival contact Simon Preston at simon@graceonline.co.uk

Darlington Today | 31

Wilkinsons

Creating your dream garden

Landscapes

from concept to completion...

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Wilkinsons Plant Centre

www.wilkinsonsplantcentre.co.uk

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Opening Times Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Wilkinsons Plant Centre, East Brocks Farm, Eaglescliffe, Stockton on Tees, TS16 0QH

Find us on the A67 midway between Yarm & Teesside Airport Visit our Plant Centre, to see inspirational show gardens and the largest selection of plants in the North East