Summer Advertiser 2015
Darlington Summer
2015 Events
June
COMMUNITY CARNIVAL Saturday 27 June Town Centre 12 noon-5pm This year’s Community Carnival theme is Darlington International. The charity is the Mayor’s Charity Fund. Watch the spectacular parade on its journey from the Market Square in the town centre up to Stanhope Park.
ARMED FORCES DAY – PROMS IN THE PARK Sunday 28 June South Park BandStand 3pm Free public event with music for all ages. Bring your own picnic, chairs and tables.
July
MASS DANCE Saturday 11 July Market Square, 1pm-3pm Mass dance performance in the Market Square.
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Sunday 19 July Head of Steam 10am-4pm Teddy Bears Picnic in museum and grounds with family entertainment, storytelling and arts and crafts. £1 entry and family members go free.
DARLINGTON BY THE SEA Thursday 23 July to Thursday 6 August Market Square 10am-4pm The ever so popular Darlington by the Sea returns to town with its traditional mix of sand, entertainment, children’s fairground rides and lots of things to do and see. The first day at the beach is Rugby themed hosted by Healthy Darlington and the following two weeks will continue to be sea side related activities by Distinct Darlington. Sand provided by Jewsons Ltd.
August
SHERWOOD’S VAUXHALL DARLINGTON 10k, FUN RUN & JUNIOR 3k Sunday 9 August Town Centre Fun Run 9am, Junior 3k 9.45am & 10k 10.30am Join over 1700 runners from around the North East and beyond in one of the region’s top road run. There is also a Family Fun Run prior and the return of the Junior 3k Road Run for ages 8-14 year olds supported by NHS Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group at 9.45am. For further details on all runs and how to enter visit www.healthydarlington.co.uk/10k
For further information on all events call 01325 406990
TEA DANCE Wednesday 12 August Market Square, 11am-3pm Put on your dancing shoes and join us in the Market Square for a traditional tea dance. Live music, free cream teas and there’s also the chance to win a prize or two.
SUMMER MARKETS Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August Town Centre 9am-5pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday Summer Markets with entertainment for all the family.
TRIBUTES IN THE MARKET SQUARE Sunday 16 August Market Square, 1pm-6pm Boogie on down in the square for this year’s Tribute Acts Concert.
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The NEW G i Glow Diet in associatio n with The Food Doc TM tor
LET’S GET UP AND GLOW GLOW CLASSES Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday:
Kirklevington and Darlington Northallerton Northallerton and Ingelby Barwick Ingelby Barwick
(for times contact Dianne below)
PREPARE TO BE SHOCKED BY HOW GOOD STAGECOACH SUMMER WORKSHOPS CAN BE It is wonderful how a group of young people can come together in only 5 days to either create a musical show (older children) or create 5 souvenirs and many great memories (younger children). New friendships are created. New confidence is found. At Teesside High School, Eaglescliffe from 3rd to 7th August, there will be... A `BUILD A SHOW IN 5 DAYS` workshop for ages 6 - 15 years 5 separate DAY-LONG workshops on a different theme, each day for ages 3.5 - 7 years Other Stagecoach workshops, dates and venues are planned across the summer. ASK FOR DETAILS. E mail darlington@stagecoach.co.uk or ring 01325 337667 for details
SPOTLIGHT ON STAGECOACH Young people from across County Durham are now setting the stage for a brighter future. We sent writer, Claire Buchan, to Stagecoach Darlington to find out more... As a member of an amateur dramatics society, I’ve witnessed at first-hand how performing arts can help bring even the shyest of students out of their shell. But the work being undertaken at Stagecoach Theatre Arts in Darlington goes far beyond simple confidence building. Here the power of the drama, music and dance is being harnessed to help young people develop a range of essential life skills, which will benefit them socially and in future employment. Principal Trudy Hindmarsh, who introduced Stagecoach to Darlington in 1998, spent many years working in education. Having initially taught English in sixth form, she later became an infant teacher, before launching her first Stagecoach franchise in Yarm in 1997. “I was becoming disheartened with the education system,” she said. “I found that the structured curriculum and introduction of SATS was limiting the students’ ability to work on their own initiative and embrace their creative side.
“Eventually I got involved in a school project, which saw a show I had written being staged at Billingham Forum Theatre. “I witnessed first-hand what a huge difference this made to the students, with one girl even increasing her reading age by four years because she was so determined to read the script. “I knew that we’d never be able to recreate this experience in a school environment, so I applied for a franchise with Stagecoach and have never looked back.” With more than 600 franchised schools across the UK, Stagecoach Theatre Arts is the largest network of parttime performing arts training schools in the country. The Darlington branch, based at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, caters for ages two to 18, with some courses starting from as little as 40 minutes per week. There are also additional, short-term workshops available during school holidays. “There are many stereotypes surrounding stage schools,” said Trudy, “but we don’t really fit in to any of those. “Sure, we teach students the art of singing, drama and dance, but there are no pushy parents or competing for prominence
and it’s not just about performing.” While some former Stagecoach students, including Billy Elliott actor, Jamie Bell and Pop Idol finalist, Zoe Birkett, have pursued careers in the spotlight, many others have found success in unrelated fields, as well as further education - and Trudy is extremely proud of them all. “A fundamental part of our training, is teaching students of any age how to build confidence, work as part of a team and develop leadership skills that will help them to thrive in later life,” she said. “Even our youngest students are encouraged to develop a level of independence from the outset. And our methods of behavioral intervention, designed to limit tantrums, anxiety and even the effects of ADHD, are currently the subject of a study by Teesside University, which we hope will see them held up as examples of best practice.” For more information about Stagecoach Darlington, including a full list of term dates and activities, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/ darlington or call Trudy on 01325 337667 Darlington Today | 5
10AM – 5PM FOOD • DRINK • SHOWS • MUSIC • FUN • FARMING EXHIBITIONS • ANIMALS • STALLS • CRAFTS FOOD AND DRINK
Browse an array of stalls showcasing the best in local, seasonal and speciality food and drink.
LIVE MUSIC
A fantastic line-up of local bands – so remember your dancing shoes or sit back with a local beer or chilled glass of wine and enjoy the great live entertainment on offer.
SHEEP SHOW
This charming show tells the story of Nobby the Norfolk Horn. Expect fun facts, sheep shearing and dancing sheep in the ‘Sheep Show Hustle’.
VINTAGE VILLAGE
Browse a variety of beautiful vintage stalls offering timeless styles for all ages including jewellery, clothes and soft furnishings, followed by a delicious afternoon tea in our tea tent. Practice your dance moves with Swing Dance Leeds whilst listening to tunes of the 1930’s and 40’s.
LIGHTWATER KIDS
The festival has children’s entertainment galore with shows, workshops and lots of hands-on farming fun. Listen to magical stories by The Cloud Collector, try out your bush craft skills and join in our fascinating magic shows.
Adults £8 and Children £5 (under 5s are free) includes entry to the Angry Birds Activity Park and Lightwater Falconry Centre. Tickets* can now be purchased in advance at:
lightwatervalley.co.uk/countryfestival North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. So easy to find, just off the A6108, North of Ripon. Tel: 01765 635321 *Tickets do not include entry to the theme park.
SUNSHINE STAPLES
Spend summer in style with these top fashion tips…
Holiday season is the ideal time to brighten up your wardrobe and experiment with the cut, colour and style of whatever you wear.
Suit jacket £75 Shirt £28 Trousers £35 all Next
Dress £13, bag £8, shoes £16 bracelets £2 all Primark
If you’re heading for one of the UK’s top festivals then be sure to pack plenty of vibrant and practical accessories. A large hat and signature sunglasses will protect you from the sun and help you stand out from the crowd, while wellies will keep you mud free all weekend long.
Black print swim short £30 Red print swim short £30 Both Criminal at House of Fraser
Opt, too, for striking swimwear. Florals and animal prints look great on the beach or by the pool, with a colourful kaftan, funky flip flops and oversized bag completing the look once you step inside. Remember, though, glowing, healthy skin is your best accessory, so stay safe and use plenty of sunscreen. With temperatures rising, comfort is of the utmost importance and lighter fabrics such as linen and cotton will help men stay calm and cool, especially for a more formal, suited event. For summer weddings or days at the races, women should also stick to lighter colours and eye-catching, seasonal prints. Maxi dresses are ideal for adding an air of sophistication, especially when paired with nude or gold shoes. Accessorise with a fascinator where appropriate and remember to take a wrap, shawl or light jacket in case it gets cold.
Striped knit top £22 Floral wide leg trousers £35 Hobo bag £34 Sunglasses £10 Sandals £30 - all Next
Paige Tapework Full Length Dress £325 - Phase Eight available at House of Fraser
If you’re keeping it casual, then cut-off jeans or tailored shorts are ideal for all manner of get-togethers and family days out. Team with a flowing top or fitted t-shirt and you’re ready to take on a rollercoaster, tuck into an ice cream or tackle whatever else the summer has in store.
Black & Gold Aztec Swimsuit George at Asda £14
Darlington Today | 7
• • • •
Need more qualifications? Want to change your career? Wish to improve your employment prospects? Interested in studying at university? . . . . . then our Access to Higher Education course could be for you!
STUDY FLEXIBLY, FULL TIME OR PART TIME, DAY OR EVENING We also offer GCSE Maths, English & Science, a range of Modern Languages and other short courses. Contact the College for more information www.qeliz.ac.uk Vane Terrace | Darlington | DL3 7AU | t: 01325 461315 | enquiry@qeliz.ac.uk
Children and young people in foster care are often at a turning point in their lives. Whether it is for a few weeks, a period of months or a number of years, foster families can make a lasting difference through the care and support they provide.
Would you like to help children and young people? • Could you offer support & guidance to someone who may find it difficult to accept? • Do you have a room in your home for someone that needs you? • Could you offer a new start to a young person? • And you would be paid to do it!
Contact Beta Foster Care for further information High Expectations - Positive Outcomes
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? Whether you’re green fingered or a gardening novice, make more of your outside space with these easy to implement ideas… Keep it colourful: Bright blooms are the easiest way to make an instant impact. Choose two or three signature colours and plant them in large groups to create a bold display or mix contrasting hues to add depth and diversity. Just remember to check if the flowers you’ve fallen for will flourish alongside one another and within your garden’s light, soil and weather conditions. Reach for the sky: Gardens can be spectacular when they go above ground level. Try adding height to your outside space by introducing trees, shrubs, raised beds or flower pots, which will entice the eye skywards and make even the smallest of spaces multidimensional. Climbers such as jasmine and honeysuckle, also offer a decorative way to disguise unsightly fencing or unwanted views and create an added sense of seclusion in built up areas. Grow your own: If you literally want to get more from your garden, then why not plant a small herb or vegetable patch? This could help you to save money and become more self-sufficient, while also offering you direct access to fresh and tasty ingredients for a host of summertime dishes. Space to sit: While flowers and foliage make your garden look beautiful, it’s family and friends that really bring it to
life. Make sure there’s room for them to relax by setting aside space for outdoor furniture or a picnic blanket. Patios and decking are ideal but even a small grassed area will suffice if space is limited. Welcome wildlife: Do your bit for nature by planting pollen and nectar rich plants to encourage bees, putting up bird baths and feeders for our feathered friends and even putting out small amounts of cat or dog food for your friendly neighbourhood hedgehog. Let there be light: Make the most of those long, summer nights by installing outdoor lighting that will keep your garden looking its best, even after the sun has set. Electric or candle lanterns are particularly popular, while fairy lights wound around key features and trees are especially magical. Solar lights are probably the most cost effective option but, whichever you choose, just make sure they’re specifically designed for outdoor use and won’t suffer in the damp weather. Wow with water: If you don’t have the space, or budget, for a pool, pond or hot tub, then a simple water feature can have a remarkably tranquil effect. Just imagine sitting back in your deckchair, listening to the gentle, rippling sound, reminiscent of
Image courtesy of House of Bath
Image courtesy of Homebase
a babbling countryside brook or soft ocean waves - bliss! Small surprises: Even the smallest of yards can become a mid-town oasis with a little creativity. Try using fragrant flowers in vibrant, easy to move pots and paint any unsightly surfaces in light, bright colours to give a sense of space. Take care: Once you’ve made a start on your garden it’s important to keep up the tender, loving care. Use gardening books or the internet for advice on when things should be pruned and planted and remember to feed and water your garden, to ensure it continues to bloom.
Darlington Today | 11
WIN WIN WIN WIN W
WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY WITH DINNER AND FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST AT MERCURE DARLINGTON KING’S HOTEL. Located in the heart of Darlington, the Mercure Darlington King’s Hotel is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway. After checking into one of our luxurious privilege guest bedrooms, the afternoon is then free for you to shop in Darlington’s many independent shops and boutiques. Back at the hotel, begin your evening in our upmarket cocktail bar, and then dine in Carriages Restaurant, which has stunning views across the town centre. Enjoy a refreshing bottle of wine while sampling the delights of our 3 course table d’hôte menu, which showcases the best of modern British cuisine. Leave feeling rested after a comfortable night’s sleep, and hearty full English breakfast.
Answer this question to win: What is the name of the restaurant at the King’s Hotel? Entry details can be found at the foot of this page. Closing date for entries is 31 August 2015 Terms & Conditions Valid for stays from September until end November 2015, subject to availability. Prize includes 3 course dinner, bed & breakfast at the hotel. Pre-booking is essential. Valid for 2 people for 1 night.
Darlington Today Exclusive Reader Offer Why not take advantage of the fantastic offer below for Darlington Today readers. What better way to spend the day than relaxing in our lounge bar with a spot of afternoon tea? Enjoy delicious finger sandwiches, homemade scones with chantilly cream & jam and a delicious slice of cake for only £12 for two people. For larger parties, we have a choice of private suites, so whether it’s a birthday party, hen party or just a get together with friends, we have the perfect place to celebrate. To make a reservation, call reception on 01325 380 222 or email sales@mercuredarlington.co.uk Offer available Saturdays & Sunday’s between 2-4pm. Offer only valid on production of voucher.
ENTER TO WIN
Send your answers, along with your name, email, address and telephone number to: Darlington Today Magazine, 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, DL5 6LH
Theatre Darlington Civic Theatre Box office: 01325 486 555 www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk *plus £1 restoration levy
The History Boys June 16 - 20 Winner of over 30 major awards including the Olivier and Tony Awards for Best New Play, Alan Bennett’s comic masterpiece is a funny and moving exploration of the purpose of education and was recently voted the nation’s favourite play. . Tickets* £15 - £24
Horrible Histories June 24 - 28 See historical figures and events brought to life on stage using actors and special effects. Visitors have a choice of two shows – Incredible Invaders and Groovy Geeks – which run at various times. Tickets* £10 children, £13.50 adults
Summer Thriller Season
June 30 - July 11 Darlington Civic Theatre will be staging two shows as part of its Summer Thriller Season. Arnold Ridley’s classic comedy thriller, The Ghost Train, will run from June 30 to July 4, with Sherlock Holmes & the Ripper Murders following from July 7 to July 11. Tickets* £12.60 - £20 per show
Theatre in the Park July 2 - July 5 Darlington Green Theatre presents four special performances of Shakespeare’s play The Merry Wives of Windsor at South Park. Tickets priced at £7 each or £5 concessions are available from Darlington Civic Theatre box office or at the door
The Songbook of Judy Garland July 20 - July 22 Join our incredible cast of performers as they take you through Judy’s stage and screen career including never before seen film highlights and interviews. A remarkable musical journey through a dazzling songbook including: Over the Rainbow, The Man That Got Away, Easter Parade, Zing! Went The Strings of my Heart, Get Happy, The Trolley Song, Rock-a-bye Your Baby (with a Dixie Melody) Tickets* £20 - £31
ABBA MANIA Saturday July 25 It is just over 40 years since ABBA won Eurovision and now it’s your chance to thank ABBA for the music! ABBA MANIA is accepted as the world’s number one touring ABBA tribute production. Featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates the music of ABBA, reviving special memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. Tickets* £17.50 & £19.50
Music The Forum Music Centre Tel: 01325 363135 www.theforumonline.co.uk
Bootleg Blondie June 20 The only Blondie tribute to play at the legendary CBGB venue in New York city, where the real Blondie made their debut, before its closure in 2006. Tickets £10 Gasto Promotions present
Chantel McGregor June 26 See award-winning rock artist Chantel McGregor, with support from North East singer/songwriter Jake Thomas Turnbull. Tickets £14
The Stones July 11 The UK’s premier tribute to The Rolling Stones will perform all the hits, from Satisfaction to Jumping Jack Flash, supported by alternative rockers, The Laymans. Tickets £10 advance, £12 on the door
Keep It Cash 25 July Recreating The Sound and feel of Johnny Cash, Europes Most Authentic Sounding Cash Tribute. Tickets: £9 in advance, £10 on the door
Shine On - (UK’s #1 Pink Floyd Tribute) 8 August
DARLINGTON BY THE SEA 23 July - 6 August
The Brilliant Shine On return to The Forum paying tribute ot Prog Rock Legends Punk Floyd Always a well attended gig for these fantastic musicians. Tickets £12
Market Square, 10am-4pm The ever so popular Darlington by the Sea returns to town with its traditional mix of sand, entertainment, children’s fairground rides and lots of things to do and see.
Ultimate Bowie 15 August Prepare to be transported across 40 years of Bowie, from Spaceboy to Superstar, by Ed Blaney’s ULTIMATE BOWIE.... Ed not only possesses Bowie’s aweinspiring vocal prowess but is also the definitive lookalike of Bowie. Tickets £10
Events COMMUNITY CARNIVAL 27 June Town Centre 12noon-5pm Watch the spectacular parade on its journey from the Market Square in the town centre up to Stanhope Park, raising money for The charity is the Mayor’s Charity Fund.
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC 19 July Head of Steam, 10am-4pm Teddy Bears Picnic in museum and grounds with family entertainment, storytelling and arts and crafts. £1 entry and family members go free.
SHERWOOD’S DARLINGTON VAUXHALL 10k, FUN RUN & JUNIOR 3k 9 August Town Centre, Fun Run 9am Junior 3k 9.45am & 10k 10.30am Join over 1700 runners from around the North East and beyond in one of the region’s top road run.
TEA DANCE 12 August Market Square, 11am-3pm Put on your dancing shoes and join us in the Market Square for a traditional tea dance. Live music, free cream teas and there’s also the chance to win a prize or two.
SUMMER MARKETS 13 - 16 August 9am-5pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday Town Centre Summer Markets with entertainment for all the family.
TRIBUTES IN THE MARKET SQUARE 16 August Market Square, 1pm-6pm Boogie on down in the square for this year’s Tribute Acts Concert.
Your gateway to Weardale 13 miles from Durham
All year round access We now have 5 lodges sold and in place with three more due in the summer
NEW Show Lodge recently arrived We have an impressive range of luxury holiday lodges on the Park to show you what’s possible – but your lodge will be designed to your own requirements and delivered in just a few weeks.
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Sales office open every day
Tel: 0777 054 8647
www.deneside-lodges.com
sales@deneside-lodges.co.uk
Deneside, The Causeway, Wolsingham, Co Durham, DL13 3BD