Darlington Today issue 80 Summer 2022

Good sports meet two championathletes

Mick Hucknall and his band head to Darlington Win a stay at Lumley Castle Ibiza Symphony Orchestra set to sizzle

just a country house

Time to spa

Headlam Spa is a place to relax, exercise and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of water and authentic spa therapy in a comfortable and friendly environment that reflects the beauty of the surrounding countryside. We offer an extensive range of spa treatments as well as day spa packages that combine spa therapy with use of the facilities and food. Book online at www.headlamhall.co.uk/spa

Timehotel…forgolf

This picturesque 9 hole course is both challenging and enjoyable with holes ranging from the short but daunting 116 yard ‘Pond Hole’ to the long and rolling 523 yard ‘Sleeters’. The course is open to membership or green fees by prior booking and the extensive practice facilities include a covered driving range, chipping area and putting green. The resident PGA Pro, Darren Pearce, offers tuition to all levels of golfer and has a very well stocked shop.

See www.headlamhall.co.uk/golf

local, relevant and entertaining

Welcome! At the time of writing the sun has been shining and for the first time in two years, we can all feel that life has well and truly come back to normal.

As we’re revving up for the summer ahead, we’ve got all of your holiday essentials that you simply can’t be without, plus our travel page might give you a bit of inspiration if you’re still thinking of somewhere to visit.

But if you’re only going to enjoy a staycation this year – don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of suggestions to keep you happy! Take a look at some of the great restaurants right on our doorstep in our new regular feature for Eating Out and in our Welcome to Darlington 3 page special you can see all of Darlington’s shops and restaurants listed,there really is something for everyone. We’ve got ideas for every budget, from cheap and cheerful to Michelin starred – so make sure you don’t miss out.

And who wouldn’t want an overnight visit to a castle? We’ve got a fantastic competition where one lucky reader can have a luxurious night at Lumley Castle and live like a king or Wequeen.have our round-up of all the latest news from across Darlington and beyond, plus our what’s on guide to everything happening in the area.

4-6CONTENTSWELCOMETODARLINGTONWith2hoursfree

parking

there has never been a better time to shop local

8-9 LOCAL NEWS

Find out all the latest news from around the town and beyond

10-11 COMING TO DARLINGTON ARENA THIS SUMMER

Check out the exciting month ahead at the arena

14 St TERESA’S HOSPICE

The news from your local hospice

15 GOOD SPORTS

Two top athletes talk to Darlington Today

16-17 HOLIDAY ROUND UP

All the essentials you need for that trip home or abroad

19 WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT LUMLEY CASTLE

Live like a king or queen at one of the North East’s top hotels

22-23 FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Our top choices of places to eat in and around Darlington

24-25 THE CARRIAGE HOUSE

Behind the scenes at the latest addition to a top Darlington hotel

28-29 SUNNY SARDINIA

We’ve got the lowdown on this Italian destination

Headlam Hall Near Gainford Darlington DL2 3HA 01325 730238 reception@headlamhall.co.uk

30 WHAT’S ON Where to go, what to see and what to do…

Win a pair of tickets to see The Mersey Beatles

On Friday 2nd September at 7.30pm

Fans of the Beatles prepare to Liverpool born out Throughout two unforgettable fabulous ride the mop psychedelic of the melodic wonder of the Fab Four’s later

Answer the following question to win a pair of tickets. How much is a full price ticket to see The Mersey Beatles on Friday 2nd September 2022? Box office tel 01642 552663 • www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk

Closing date for entries is Friday 5th August.

So sit back, relax and have fun with our latest issue of Darlington Today! or received.

Email your answer with full name & address to: sue@rineypublishing.co.uk

PUBLISHER

e: 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.

Welcome to

Did bonus of up to two hours free there’s never been a time to shop local.

From the latest fashion trends and homewares to vintage finds, newly released books and music, there really is something for everyone in the town. It’s the perfect place to tick off all of those items on your shopping list or for a casual day of retail therapy.

If that wasn’t enough good news, the two hours free parking gives you even more of an excuse to spend your hard-earned cash on some wellearned Darlingtontreats.isrightly

proud of its vibrant range of highly individual businesses that are only available right at its heart. There is a fantastic range of diverse independents, each creating and selling products that are totally unique to them. What better way to show them your support than by heading into their shops for a browse?

With two shopping centres – Cornmill and Queen Street – as well as the historic yards, wynds and network of streets, there’s certainly plenty of choice. Throw into the mix the fact that everything is in easy reach, then you’ve got no reason to go elsewhere.

And when you need a break away from shopping – if that’s possible –then why not try some of the town’s many cafes, restaurants and bars?

There’s something to suit every palate and budget, from famous fast food outlets to international cuisines, to cosy cake and coffee spots to fine dining experiences.

As a town with a rich, vibrant history of trading and industry, you can help to keep the spirit of Darlington alive. Walk, drive or catch a bus into the town centre and see what takes your fancy. Whether you want a new wardrobe, need some new stationery for work or simply want a post-lunch sweet treat, you won’t be disappointed.

Wilko’s BooksStreet&Comics

Darl Bookshop Shopping

Music James

Joel Alexander Grange

Leggs Fashion Skinnergate Look Shopping Centre Northgate Shopping Centre Bridal Shopping Centre Northgate Grange Old Something Sustainable Bridalwear Graham Boutique Clothing Shopping Centre Shops Horsemarket Square

Mrs Palmers Pantry Market Square

Origins 29 Grange Road

Phixx Coffee Lounge 83 Skinnergate

Sunflower Café

The Savoury

Cornmill Shopping Centre

The Wandering Duck 15 Grange Road

The Wynd Café & Bistro

15a Post House Wynd

Three Squares Café 22 Skinnergate

Vineyard Café

25 Post House Wynd

Waterhouse Kitchen Café Market Hall

Travel

Barrhead Travel - Cornmill Shopping Centre

Hayes Travel 40 High Row

Tui

DOGS TRUST DARLINGTON RE-OPENS AFTER MAJOR

into the charity’s care

where specialist behavioural staff can work with them on an individual basis to overcome their anxieties and fears, helping them learn the skills needed to cope with everyday life in a loving forever home.

• A fully equipped veterinary suite

• Stimulating outdoor exercise areas with sand and water features and different play equipment and surfaces

an even greater impact on the lives of rescue dogs in the North East.

The centre now boasts:

• A refurbished training barn – where Dog School runs weekly dog training classes and 121 sessions for local dog owners – helping dogs and owners build a lifelong bond based on positive reward-based training.

ExperiencesPlace

8 Prospect

Cluedini Live Escape Rooms

3-5 Crown Street

Create & Paint Grange Road

Darl Knight 35 Bondgate DL1 Venue Feethams

Dolphin Centre Sports & leisure complex Gamers Lounge 18 King Street

Gigi’s Softplay

Majestic Theatre in Bondgate

The Forum Music Centre Borough Road

The Hippodrome Theatre Parkgate

Little Quaker Distillery

Clarks Yard

The Happy Place Woodland Road

Wedge & Tipple

Clarks Yard

The Majestic Theatre

Bondgate

A host of special guests joined the celebrations to mark the happy event to reveal the centre’s redevelopment, which has transformed the 28-yearold facilities into a world-class centre incorporating the latest advances in kennel design and dog welfare.

Over 18,000 dogs have been rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed at Darlington Rehoming Centre since it first opened its doors in May 1994. However, Dogs Trust has made significant advances in the design of Rehoming Centres since then, so whilst the Darlington facilities were functional, they were no longer suitable for the dogs coming

• A hydrotherapy pool and underwater treadmill – the only Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in the country to have a hydrotherapy pool which is 8000L and heated. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy have many benefits for the canine residents

• 77 kennels - all with underfloor heating

• Two new intake blocks – where dogs arrive and are assessed when they first come into Dogs Trust care

• A STaR block – a dedicated Specialist Training and Rehabilitation block

– one of only four Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres to have such a specialist facility. Here dogs are provided with a quiet, private space

• Upgraded reception area, staff room and offices

• Solar panels on the centres roof

Speaking at the re-opening event Owen Sharp said: “The expansion and redevelopment of Darlington Rehoming Centre will be invaluable in allowing us to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome more dogs in the North East, particularly dogs with behavioural issues, which is the number one reason dogs come into our care.

To see all the four-legged friends awaiting forever homes at Darlington Rehoming Centre visit darlingtonorg.uk/rehoming/dogs/filters/www.dogstrust.

LOCAL NEWS SCHOOL ENJOYS A RIGHT ROYAL CELEBRATION

PUPILS enjoyed a Jubilee jamboree to remember as they came together to mark the Queen’s 70th year on the throne. Marchbank Free School, Darlington, was festooned in patriotic bunting for a day of fun and alfresco food.

Pupils sang the National Anthem before tucking into a hearty afternoon tea. They played a variety of games and went on a scavenger hunt in their forest school searching for a host of royal-themed items.

They also shared a number of interesting facts about the Royal family, the Crown Jewels and Buckingham Palace.

Headteacher Tess Wright said: “The children absolutely loved the build-up to the day and the celebrations themselves. They have also written letters and cards which they plan to send to the Queen to mark this historic occasion.”

RETIREMENT LIVING RESIDENT GOES ON THE RUN…

A resident at a Darlington retirement living complex has turned his life around – after taking up running.

Ruiping Sun, a former engineer, lives at Swinden Court,McCarthy Stone Retirement Living development and decided to try and improve his bad health by changing his life style.

Ruiping took up running and soon lost 60 pounds in weight and since then hasn’t looked back.

And he has a four legged companion to support him – in the form of his six-year-old German

Shepard, Watson, accompanying him everywhere he goes.

“We first started running together almost immediately, we love to go on adventures and seize every opportunity. We run, we hike, we wild camp – he shares the tent with me and my wife!

“My fondest memories are of Watson and I hiking with friends – Watson always makes sure he is the leader of the pack. He’ll roam off but always come back to check if we’re okay – he’ll kiss my hand, which is his sign of affection, and run off again.”Originally from

GIRLS ON FILM…

A nationally recognised festival which aims to increase the number of female and nonbinary voices in the film industry is heading to Darlington this autumn.

From Sept 2 – 4 Darlington Hippodrome will play host to The Women X Festival, run by Rianne Pictures and set up following previous events that showcased films by women.

The organisers are expecting to received around 500 submissions from across the globe from women who want their work to be shown as part of the festival, which they also hope will inspire and inform those who would like to look at a career in the industry.

The plan is to right the current situation where most film festivals have less than half of their movies written or directed by women.

The hope is that the festival will continue to grow, with the possibility of a tour across the north and also becoming a BAFTA qualifying event.

REFUGEE MAKES NEW LIFE

A REFUGEE is making a new life for herself in the North-East thanks to the help of her local college.

Palestinian Nourhan Daoud came to the UK as an asylum seeker in May 2019 and was placed in Darlington.

She studied Level 2 ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) and functional skills at Darlington College making her well placed when a job opportunity came along. In August 2021, she was granted her residence permit, along with her husband, allowing them to be able to live and work in the UK for five years.

America, since taking up running Ruiping has now completed marathons in San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and further afield in Berlin and Beijing – all of which Watson helped him train for.

“Unfortunately, they don’t accept dogs in many official marathons, but Watson gets the training in with me, we normally run 6 miles a day together or more in marathon season. The park opposite Swinden Court, where we now live, is a great starting point for us, as we get to know the area more and more.”

TIM HORTONS HEADS TO TEESSIDE

A Canadian fast food chain which is becoming a huge hit across the UK has opened its doors at its first Teesside location.

Tim Hortons, known for its burgers and amazing coffee, has opened both a drive through and sit in restaurant at Teesside Park. the new restaurant will be open from 6am till midnight, seven days a week and will sell all of its signature selection of dishes.

The company is one of the fastest growing operations in North America and has opened more than 50 locations across the UK over the past five years.

“I came to the UK with my husband Rashid, who is an accountant, because it is a safe country,” she said. “We could not see a future in Palestine and wanted to build one here where we are given rights and are treated like humans. I have always dreamt of living in a country which respects me for who I am.”

Nourhan has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a Cache L5 in young people and children management. She plans to sit GCSEs in maths and English next year and will apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK once she is able to do so, with the long term goal of one day being a teacher.

“I applied for the job of admissions and enquiry assistant in the student services department at Darlington College and I was very happy indeed when they accepted me,” said Nourhan, 30.

“They have given me a chance which has really helped my confidence. It has been really good and I want to

gain as much experience as I can. Staff and students at the college are lovely and they accept me which is the most important thing.”

For more information about opportunities at Darlington College visit www.darlington.ac.uk.

FLYING HIGH AT TEESSIDE AIRPORT

Aviation services and technology firm Draken Europe is set to begin work on its new hangar at Teesside Airport after plans were given the green light – creating 30 new jobs.

The company currently maintains a fleet of five specially modified Dassault Falcon jets at its base at the airport, and recently took delivery of its first Alca L-159E “Honey Badger” advanced combat jets as part of a new contract.

It is now set to build a second state-ofthe-art hangar measuring almost 5,000sq ft alongside its existing hangar, to house the aircraft and support the critical role the firm plays in training combat pilots from the Royal Air Force, United States Air Force and other NATO member states.

Draken Europe has been located at the airport for more than 25 years and combines advanced aviation and surveillance technologies with highly skilled people to deliver a range of mission-critical global aviation services for military and civil customers worldwide.

Cllr Jonathan Dulston, Leader of Darlington Council said: “With Draken, Teesside Airport has played a critical part in our national defence for many years by making sure the RAF and our allies have the skills they need, and I am delighted plans for their new hanger at our airport have been given the green light.

“Our airport is going from strength to strength, not only are we seeing planes full of local people flying off to European holiday hot spots as part of Teesside Airport’s busiest summer season in years,

we’re seeing major investments, like Draken’s, that are creating high skilled, well paid jobs for local people.”

Flight information on all destinations served by Teesside International Airport can be found at www.teessideinternational.com

Children from Marchbank Free School mark the Queen’s Jubilee with a party

New hangar construction for Draken

The Incredible Ibiza Orchestra Experience, featuring a full live 26-piece orchestra, transports audiences through three decades of iconic White Isle classics and features special guest vocalists to create the ultimate Ibiza Experience.

Tom Cullen from Ibiza Orchestra Experience said:

“We’re delighted that after working closely with the events team bringing concerts to Norwich, Ayr, Carlisle and Darlington that we are able to bring the Ibiza Orchestra Experience to some amazing towns and cities across the UK. This will really kick start the summer and the re-birth of

cultural events in the local area after a tough year for the events industry. We’re looking forward to delivering an important part of the town’s, postCovid bounce back, bringing great economic benefit by encouraging more visitors and supporting local businesses, as well as an amazing night out!.”

SIMPLY RED

With over a billion hits on You Tube, and over 60 million albums worldwide, 5 going to number one in the UK, we couldn’t be more excited about Simply Red heading to Darlington Arena on Saturday 13th August, as part of their Summer 2022 tour.

Their 1991 classic “Stars” was the best-selling album for two years running in Britain and Europe. They have had two US Billboard chart toppers with classic singles “Holding Back The Years” and “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” - and every Simply Red studio album has been a UK top ten.

On his remarkable voice, Mick Hucknall says “I always want to push my voice a little harder, challenge it a little bit, give myself something to really sing to.” Hucknall has long since established himself as one of the great vocalists of contemporary music, with a raw honey and whiskey tone, and a sinuous flow that can shift from the tender sensuality to full on roaring power in a heartbeat. “It’s deepened a little bit but I’ve kept the high end, so I can still hit those notes. Singing is pure pleasure to me.”

A touch of friendly father-son rivalry is swelling the coffers as family and friends prepare to tackle the Great North Run.

Paul and Ben Ryan decided to run the popular half-marathon in memory of wife and mother Rachel who died after developing an aggressive form of oesophageal cancer aged just 47. They have also enlisted the support of friends and running club members and have already raised more than £4,000 for St Teresa’s Hospice where staff cared for Rachel in her final few days.

Paul, a company general manager, from Darlington, said: “Rachel began having acid reflux issues in January and in February was diagnosed with cancer.

It was so aggressive and had spread so quickly treatment was not possible and she died at St Teresa’s Hospice in March.

“The love and care the staff showed Rachel, me, our two boys, Ben and Sam, her sister Caroline, and friends in her last few days was amazing and befitting of Rachel. So as #TeamRachel we are undertaking the Great North Run in order to raise as much money as possible for the “Rachelcharity.was

always willing to go the extra mile for anyone in need, working firstly in education but latterly helping people escape debt with Christians Against Poverty. She was always the first to help others, whether it be helping new parents through difficult times or delivering meals to families who needed them. The world would be a better place if we could all be more like her.”

Paul has set up a Just Giving Page at TeamRachelRyanwww.justgiving.com/fundraising/ and Ben, 19, a classical

singing student, has set up a rival team to raise even more money.

“I have been running for the past eight years and joined Quakers Running Club,” said Paul. “Ben, who used to volunteer at St Teresa’s Mowden charity shop, has started training and if he sticks to the plan I’m sure he will beat me on the day.”

Rachel’s sister Caroline is also planning to run as are some members of the Quakers Club including Michelle Boshier.

She said: “I’ve been involved with St Teresa’s for over 10 years, volunteering in the in-patient unit, helping with the events staged throughout the year, such as Bark in the Park and the Santa Run, with my son Lewis.

“Through lockdown in 2020 I couldn’t leave the house so I ran up and down my path for 2.6 miles as I was missing my running to raise money for St Teresa’s. Lockdown lasted longer than I thought –105 days.

“I had a Great North Run place for St Teresa’s, which is an amazing place that gives support to many people and their families in their most difficult days. When Rachel died, at her remembrance service, we agreed to run the Great North Run in her Communitymemory.”Support

Fundraiser Emily Robson said: “We’re lucky to have such an amazing community of runners supporting St Teresa’s every year. I look forward to meeting our wonderful supporters in our marquee at the finish line charity village.”

Registration has closed for this year but you can register your interest to secure a place in 2023 by contacting the Events Team on 01325 254321 or

House Clearances

Our House Clearance Service can offer a comprehensive full or partial clearance service for a fair and competitive charge, and all proceeds go directly to the Hospice.

As part of our wider services, our Retail Team can offer a professional full or partial house clearance service to anyone who needs it. You don’t need to have a connection to St Teresa’s Hospice to use this service.

If you are moving home, have inherited a property, or have a loved one going into care, whatever your individual circumstances, we can help you.

How it works:

• Organising a house clearance with St Teresa’s Hospice is easy, and we will arrange for a stress-free collection of your items.

• House clearances are carried out by our experienced and reliable staff, who will come out and give you a free assessment.

• We will then arrange a date and time which will work for you. Your items will be collected with care and confidentiality. Any items that we can sell will be donated to our stores.

• The fee you pay and any proceeds from the items goes back directly into funding our care and providing vital services in the local community. All proceeds from house clearances provide us with an income to help sustain our charity and community.

Please get in touch to discuss the details of the service you require. Call us on 01325 488701 or www.darlingtonhospice.org.ukourForenquiries@darlingtonhospice.org.ukemailmoreinformationaboutservicesvisit

SPORTSGOOD

IF U Care Share – that’s the message from two of the country’s top sports stars as they line up to support a County Durham charity.

The rising level of suicide among young men is one of the tragedies of our times – but two of GB’s top athletes are helping a North East charity stem the tide.

If U Care Share was founded in 2011 by County Durham mum Shirley Smith after losing her eldest and much-loved son Dan to suicide on Easter Monday 2005.

Intervening to prevent suicides and providing family support after suicide, its staff also run workshops teaching the importance of mental along with physical wellbeing.

And now the charity, which works with the Premier League, League Football Education, the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the Football

Association to address the issue at football league clubs across the UK, have added two new recruits to their team

Olympic and World Cup medallist, world champion and five times national cycling champion Ryan Owens and GB judo champion

Lachlan Moorhead are both lending their support, in a bid to bring down rising rates of suicide among young men in Britain.

Ryan, who started competitive cycling when he was 13, said he has seen at first hand the devastating effect loneliness can have on young men.

“Loneliness sounds so unthreatening,” he said, “But it can be fatal and it’s crucial that everyone – but particularly young men, who aren’t necessarily used to expressing their emotions, can talk about their feelings.

“I feel so strongly about this that I wanted to offer practical help – not just sympathetic social media soundbites – and that’s why I’m really pleased to be supporting If U Care Share and the phenomenal work they do.”

Lachlan, a Grand Slam and multiple European medallist who started training in judo at age six, was just 11 when his

idol, World Judo Champion Craig Fallon, died by suicide in 2019 aged 36. “He was my hero,” he said, “and the best judo athlete to ever come out of Great Britain in my opinion.

“I barely knew him but what his death showed me was that often people who seem fine are struggling inside and my opinion is that we don’t talk about this often enough.”

Lachlan and Ryan were introduced to If U Care Share by Athlete Media Group – which represents athletes from a variety of sports, united in a desire to give back to society by lending their voices to a range of causes, from ocean plastic to bullying, sustainability and diversity. Their support, said the charity, could “very well mean the difference between life and death,” with current figures showing male suicides are triple those of women.

Seventeen years on from her son’s death, Shirley still does not know what drove him to take his own life, “but we also know that 75 per cent of men that end their lives have no diagnosis, or history of mental illness,” she said.

“However, sport can reach people –especially young men –when other methods fail,” said Shirley, “which is why we are so thrilled to have Lachlan and Ryan on board.”

Ryan Owens

One of the best parts of the holiday is the pre planning, working out in advance what to take and what to leave behind. There’s no better feeling in the world than dusting off your suitcase from on top of the wardrobe (or under the bed) and pulling together bit by bit what you’ll need when far from home.

Here at Darlington Today we’re hoping to make your packing chore a teeny bit easier by rounding up the very best and essential summer items to take on your journey be it to the coast, mountains or an urban getaway.

FIRST AID TRAVEL KIT WILKO, £5.25

Okay it may not be top of your thoughts when it comes to holidays, but this little kit could be invaluable. Small enough to squeeze into any case, it something that’s great to have on hand to deal with all those possible cuts, scrapes and bangs.

WHITE BAG

TX MAXX - £44.99

A holiday essential is a bag that can literally pack everything in – handy enough to take on as a carry-on on the plane and that can be used to take everything to the beach. This bargain from TX Maxx pretty much ticks every box.

HATS, FROMNATIONALVARIOUSTRUST£15to£25

Protect your head from the sun’s glare and help a good cause at the same time? It’s a no brainer. The

National Trust has unveiled its very own collection of stylish sun hats and you can get an extra feeling of warmth knowing you’re supporting an organisation that protects the UK’s nature, beauty and history.

PASSPORT £14.99WWW.GETTINGPERSONAL.CO.UKHOLDER

If you’ve been lucky enough to actually get your new passport through in time for your holidays – or even if you’re old one is still in date – don’t risk losing it. This bespoke passport holder is a great way of identifying your passport immediately – and it also makes a nifty gift idea.

BANDEAU BIKINI GEORGE AT ASDA - £9

You can still look a million dollars by the beach without breaking the bank – as this stylish bikini confirms. You can buy each piece individually for just £4.50p. It leaves lots more money for those by the pool cocktails… PER BARRETTHOLLANDSUNCREAMMINERALCENT&-£9.99

Still at the very top of your holiday list is, of course, sun lotion. It’s not good enough in this day and age to just buy any old brand … go green and choose an environmentally friendly guilt-free sun cream when you spread on this H&B 100% Mineral Sunscreen, 50SPF. It’s vegan friendly, reef friendly and (of course) not tested on animals.

TAN ROPE SANDALS PRIMARK -£10

Nobody wants to feel ropey on holiday – but in this case we’ll make an exception! Primark’s great for a holiday bargain and they don’t come much better than this.

These sandals will save your feet from getting sore and can easily transition from cool day to smart night wear.

RAINBOW STRIPED BEACH

TXTOWELMAXX - £12.99

Any sunworshipper worth their stripes will have – a striped beach towel. Doesn’t matter if you’re lounging by that tropical pool or catching some rays on a sandy beach, this is the great holiday must-have.

DENTEK’S LLOYDS,VARIOUSADVANCEDTEMPARIN®REPAIRKITINCLUDINGBOOTS,SAINSBURYS–£7.60

This genius little travelling dental kit could save you thousands of pounds and hours of pain: Oral hygiene company DenTek’s Temparin® Advanced Repair Kit can help you cope with a loose filling, cap, crown or inlay until you can get back to your dentist. It’s safe, you can eat after making repairs and it’ll keep your smile firmly in place.

CASTLE:LUMLEY

THE VERY BEST OF THE NORTH FOR A LUCKY WINNER

It has dominated the North East landscape for more than 600 years, but now everyone has the opportunity to spend some time in the magnificent spectacle that is Lumley Castle.

The four-star Chester-le-Street hotel, which overlooks the River Wear and Durham County Cricket Ground is a firm favourite for everything from leisurely nights away to wedding celebrations –and no wonder.

The four-star venue boasts 73 plush bedrooms - many with decadent four-poster beds. The rooms are professionally decorated in period style and feature luxe fabrics, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities and high-end toiletries. It has a fine-dining restaurant plus a very popular vintage library bar, where afternoon tea is served.

The hotel also has a number of large and stylish function rooms which reflect the history of the property – the perfect backdrop for celebrations of all kinds.

It’s not surprising then that Lumley is such a popular choice for weddings, after all who doesn’t want to feel like a real life king or queen on their most important day?

If being surrounded by medieval gorgeousness is just not enough for you and you crave a little more

excitement, then why not try some of the events inside the castle? Lumley is the only hotel in the UK to have its very own Escape Room, created around the legend of Lily of Lumley who reputedly haunts the castle. Designed by professional theatre designers, it’s a great addition to any stay or even for a group of friends wanting to do something really different and challenging the ghost of Lily, with your team of sleuths, as she roams throughout the castle.

If you’d rather hunt down food than ghosts, Elizabethan Banquets at Lumley might be more to your taste. For one indulgent evening (with an option to sleep over) you can celebrate and feast like the lords and ladies of a bygone era and enjoy a five-course banquet with goblets of wine and mead topped off by a rip-roaring disco (who knew they were invented back then?).

For movie fans or book lovers who adore nothing more than working out whodunnits in the latest crime thriller there’s a chance to live the dream by playing detective during one of Lumley Castle’s famed Murder Mystery evenings.

If you’d prefer something a little more low key and relaxing, far from ghosts and theatrical murders, fine dining in one of two lavish private dining rooms cannot be beaten. If you or your loved ones have a special celebration or event around the corner, this is the ideal way to really roll out the red carpet.

No matter if you’re getting married, fancy tucking into a medieval banquet or a becoming a detective for the evening in a spooky murder mystery there’s no better place to make memories than Lumley Castle.

For further details visit

www.lumleycastle.comWIN

You can be king -or queen – of the castle for one very special night. Our lucky winner and their guest will enjoy an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast at Lumley.

To enter all we want to know is – what is the name of Lumley’s reputed ghost?

Send your answers on a postcard with your name, address & contact telephone number to: Lumley Castle Competition Darlington Today magazine Riney Media, 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, DL5 6LH

Closing date for entry is Friday 26th August 2022. terms and conditions

SPOTLIGHT ON SUPPORTED LODGINGS

Darlington Borough Council’s Supported Lodgings is celebrating 10 years of provision this year! This is a vital service that helps young people from a range of care backgrounds with the next stages of life and you could be a part of it.

When young people in care reach 16, there are options available for the next step of their journey. They may be able to stay with their care placement or leave the care system altogether and find a place of their own to start living independently. However, if they feel as though they need a little support to boost their confidence before living alone, they can move into Supported Lodgings.

Supported Lodgings are for people aged 16 – 21 years who have previously been looked after, either in foster or residential care, to help them make the transition to independent living. The young person would live with a provider, who would also offer guidance and advice to help develop their skills. This could include teaching the young person how to cook, do laundry, budget or find a job – and sometimes, it’s just about being there to offer emotional support.

While you don’t need any special skills or qualifications to be a Supported Lodgings provider, it’s key that you’re willing to

go on a journey with young people. Having a sense of humour and enjoying young people’s company can help too! However, the team provide lots of training opportunities to help you feel confident and ready to take on this new role.

If your application is successful, you’ll be matched to a young person and receive a weekly allowance to help you cover any

costs.We

asked Chloe*, a young person who has lived with one our Supported Lodgings providers about her “Whenexperience.Iwas15, my mum passed away, so I was put into foster care. Then when I turned 16, I went to live with Caroline* in Supported Lodgings. I was anxious about leaving foster care, but I wasn’t ready to live on my own.

As soon as I walked through the front door, all my worries melted away. I wasn’t just given a bed to sleep in and a room of my own, I was welcomed into the home and made to feel so at ease.

I stayed with Caroline for about three years in the end. She really helped me when I was going through college and looking for universities. It wasn’t always easy for us, but we grew and learned together.

I felt like Caroline respected me and she treated me like an adult. I respected her and appreciated her as a constant in my life. She has taught me to how cook, do my laundry, budget, and apply for jobs - life skills that have enabled me to live an independent life now.

Young people shouldn’t have to be worried about where their next meal is coming from or if they will have a warm bed for the night. If you can offer that security to someone, then you’re already making a huge

*Namesdifference.”have been changed to protect identities

To find out more, www.darlington.gov.ukvisit and search Supported Lodgings Call: 01325 406222 (choose option 5) supportedlodgings@darlington.gov.ukEmail:

Could you change a

FOOD FOR THOUGHT..

Who doesn’t like a trip to a restaurant? It doesn’t matter if it’s cheap and cheerful or a gourmet offering, it’s something that everyone enjoys. Luckily here in Darlington we have something for every palate – here’s our pick of some of our favourites…

RABY HUNT RESTAURANT

Raby Hunt is one of the area’s most famous restaurants, with a tip-top reputation due to its impressive award of 2 Michelin stars. Owned by self-taught chef James Close, the Summerhouse restaurant offers a 12-15 course gastronomic delight or a slightly more informal Kitchen Menu where diners sit on high stools watching chefs in the kitchen create the mouthwatering dishes from scratch.

Contact: +44(0) 1325 374 237

E: info@rabyhuntrestaurant.co.uk

THE GRANGEBLACKWELLHOTEL

Blackwell Grange is an elegant 17th century mansion, set in its own parklands and woods on the outskirts of Darlington. The historic hotel serves locally sourced modern British cuisine at its Havelock restaurant. Its bar and lounge offers hearty comfort food while afternoon tea is available daily from any of its dining areas, including outdoors on the scenic lawn or terrace. Four types of the very popular afternoon tea are available: Traditional, Cream Tea, Children’s Tea and even a “Gentleman’s” Afternoon Tea.

Contact: 0330 1027238 Havelocks: 01325 509948, E: bruhennyhotels.co.ukreservations.blackwell@

MAXINE’S RESTAURANT

Darlington’s Bannatyne Hotel is a converted Grade II listed townhouse brimming with character. Tucked away inside the hotel is the beautifully appointed Maxine’s Restaurant, which serves fresh European and British cuisine as well as drinks and light snacks. The four-star hotel is also a popular venue for Sunday lunch and afternoon tea.

Contact: 01325 365858

HEADLAM HALL COUNTRY HOUSE

The Hall is an upscale four-star hotel just over eight miles outside of Darlington. The 17th Century country house is set in its own rolling farmland with a spa and golf. Fresh ingredients at the hotel’s restaurants are sourced from the farm. The Orangery specialises in al fresco British dining (on sunny days) while traditional snacks and drinks are available in The Library Bar, where dogs – on leads – are also made welcome. There’s also a Spa Brasserie overlooking the golf course for informal snacks such as homemade baguettes, scones and quiches plus hot and cold drinks.

Contacts: 01325 730238, E: reception@headlamhall.co.uk

MEZE

This award-winning Mediterranean restaurant at Parkgate is a great hit with local diners who have developed a fondness for its fresh fish, mixed meze platters, garlic sausages (Sucuk Izgara) plus - of course - chicken or lamb skewers and shish kebabs. The small restaurant has been a mainstay

on the Darlington food scene for 16 years, serving up traditional favourites as well as more creative Greek and Turkish dishes, small plate snacks and rich desserts.

Contacts: 01325 464466 W: mezedarlington.co.uk

SALT

Another Grange Road restaurant worth swinging by is Salt, which offers comfort street food. This cosy venue serves up a wide range of dishes including hearty burgers, bao buns, Korean & Greek bowls plus tacos and loaded fries and describes itself as “providing good food without the pretentiousness”.

Contacts: 01325 262520 W: saltdarlington.co.uk

SOL TAPAS

Sol Tapas, at Duke Street, as the name suggests offers a huge range of small plate tapas ranging from Spanish Brie, Mussels with Chorizo, Chiles Gambas and homemade fishcakes to delicious Calamari, Spanish Black Pudding and croquettes,plus specialty cured meat platters.

Contacts: 01325 46700

E: info@soltapas.co.uk

THE WANDERING DUCK

The Wandering Duck has a cheeky motto “Wander in. Waddle Out” and once you’ve visited you’ll know it’s an absolutely spot on description as the mouthwatering food is pretty moreish. Generous tasty portions of breakfast fare, plump fresh

sandwiches and its popular vibrant brunches make this Grange Road eatery a repeat crowd pleaser.

Contacts: 01325 463008 W: wandering-duck.co.uk

THE BAY HORSE

The Bay Horse is one of the oldest pubs in the area, dating back to its days as a coach house in the 1400s. This Hurworth gastropub – plus its popular outdoor walled garden – has a solid reputation for quality British dining at its best. It has scooped multi food awards including Gastropub Chef of the Year, Michelin Bib Gourmand and is regularly featured in the Good Food Guide and is a Hardens Diner Survey top scorer. Contacts: 01325 720663 W: thebayhorsehurworth.com

VIRAJ RESTAURANT

Viraj offers luxury high-quality Indian food in the centre of Darlington, on Kendrew Street. It serves a wide selection of vegetarian and rice dishes (an impressive 12 different types in total) plus its ever-popular tandoori, biryani and balti specials. Not to be missed are the chef’s favourites: fiery curries, authentic coconut-soaked vegetables, creamy tikkas and lamb on the bone. Contacts: 01325 639963 W: virajrestaurant.co.uk

We’re proud to highlight some of Darlington’s very best eateries in our regular Eating Out Guide.

If you’d like to see your own restaurant featured in the guide contact us sue@rineypublishing.co.ukat:

Razor clams by The Raby Hunt

The Raby Hunt

Havelocks Restaurant at The Blackwell Grange

Designed in an appropriate style with an homage to heritage of Blackwell Grange; the focal points of each room in The Carriage House include oversized headboards and wall panelling. Some of the feature suites feature fireplaces, roll top baths and the original stables timber beams. The style is luxurious with a focus on premium finishes and comfort throughout; bathrooms boast premium sanitary ware & tiling, underfloor heating and Anyah Eco Spa Treatment toiletries.

‘This is a great day in the history of Blackwell Grange’, the hotel’s General Manager of 22 years, Dawn Raine, said. ‘The heritage of The Carriage House has been honoured and updated for the modern day, with timeless touches in some of the most

CARRIAGETHE HOUSE

The elegant 4-star Blackwell Grange Hotel in Darlington has refurbished its Carriage House, continuing a multimillion-pound investment in the manor house hotel. Dating back to the 19th Century, the former Grade II listed stables have always been a prominent feature of the historic grounds. Converted to bedrooms in 1997 to replicate idyllic County Durham cottages, the building has undergone a magnificent refurbishment to become ‘The Carriage BlackwellHouse’.Grange is proud to announce The Carriage House is now officially open boasting a range of premier rooms and suites; transformed by local specialist interior design company, Forge Interiors. Works started in October 2021 and reached a conclusion in May 2022. The exterior landscaping work planned later this year includes

• a complete refurbishment of the pitched roof; • garden landscaping; and

luxurious bedrooms at Blackwell Grange. We are excited to welcome

guests to experience this landmark’s new chapter in the life of the hotel.”

• central

Theredevelopment.courtyardCarriageHouse will be transformed into the perfect place for a relaxing stay but more than that, with the creation of a fantastic outdoor space for family and friends. Now an intimate venue special for any occasion which can be exclusive and only limited by the imagination/creativity for the

Theevent.Carriage House sits within the grounds of Blackwell Grange Hotel and is home to 11 stylish premium rooms and suites. There are a further 11 State rooms and suites in the main house and 86 deluxe rooms bringing the total rooms to 108.

The

For more information call Mathew Ashton on 01325 509912.

Web: www.blackwellgrangehotel.com

Tel: 0330 102 7238

Start adoption story with

Could you offer a safe, loving home to a child in care?

This summer Adopt Coast to Coast is calling for people to consider adoption as one way to start or grow their families.

Adopt Coast to Coast is a Regional Adoption agency which brings together the adoption services of Durham County Council, Cumbria County Council and Together for Children (Sunderland City Council). The three local authorities work together to speed up the adoption process for children in care and prospective adopters. The partnership means prospective adopters can be approved and matched with a child or children from a wider geographical Thearea.agency is working hard to dispel the many myths surrounding adoption. One of the biggest misconceptions is that it can take years to go through the adoption process but these days it can take between 6 and 12 months to be

approved and matched with a child or children. Adopt Coast to Coast is keen to reassure people that there isn’t a set tick list of qualities they are looking for in prospective adopters – you have to be over 21 and lived in the UK for a year, but otherwise you can be:

• single, married or cohabitating

• from any ethnic or religious background

• heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender

• a homeowner or living in rented accommodation

• employed or on benefits

Speaking about her reasons for adopting, mam Jo said: “We heard an article the local radio station about adoption. It probably wasn’t the first

time we had heard it, but it was the first time we really listened. It started a discussion between myself and my husband, and we couldn’t come up with one reason why we shouldn’t, or couldn’t do it. We knew our son would make the best big brother, but we had to make him our priority in our final decision. We had gone from a time where having more kids was not going to happen, to being in a position where it was more than “Nowpossible.that our daughter is living with us, I still can’t quite believe it, and I’m so proud of our beautiful kids. We were right, our son is the best big brother, and they have this amazing bond. Adoption has completed our family.”

Find out more

Adopt Coast to Coast hosts two online information events every month – to book a space or to find out more about adoption go to adoptcoasttocoast.org.uk or email adoptcoasttocoast@durham.gov.uk

There was a time, not that long ago, where we probably thought we’d never get on a plane again.

It was certainly good for the UK tourism industry when we were “forced” into staycationing, but for a committed traveller, it’s the stuff of nightmares.

We celebrated our ability to head to foreign shores earlier this year with an amazing trip which encompassed New Orleans for Mardi Gras, Memphis and then the home of country music, Nashville.

While it was an incredible experience, it certainly wasn’t restful, which is why my other half and I were just desperate for a week of doing nothing but chilling in the sun.

Armed with EasyJet vouchers by virtue of flights cancelled during lockdown, we decided to venture to an island that was always on my wishlist.

Sardinia has been loved by celebrities for years – everyone from Princess Diana to Elton John to Bradley Cooperhave holidayed on the Costa Smerelda coast.

And so I figured, if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us!

We jetted out from Manchester to Olbia, an unspoilt and friendly little town in the north.

The area has featured regularly on tv and in film, notably where Roger Moore filmed the James Bond movie, The Spy Who Loved Me.

Our hotel was the DoubleTree by Hilton, one of only a handful of larger hotels in the area.

We were delighted to be treated like royalty and were upgraded to the Presidential Suite –complete with a hot tub in the living room and even a sauna (although it was far too hot to even contemplate using that!).

For anyone just wanting some r & r, sitting by a stunning pool and soaking up the rays, then this was the perfect location – you can literally feel your stresses ebbing away.

A 20 minute walk from the hotel saw us in the heart of Olbia, which is littered with traditional bars and restaurants, all serving authentic and delicious Sardinian food.

Not surprisingly, seafood is high on the menu as are traditional pasta and pizzas – but expect crispy, wafer thin delights which are far more tasty than their UK

Watchcounterparts.theworld go by with an Aperol Spritz – the Italian cocktail of choice which comprises Aperol, prosecco, soda water and a slice of orange – while the locals and the cruise ship guests walk up and down.

There’s not a huge amount of shopping options in Olbia, although there’s more than enough to satisfy souvenir hunters.

The town has its own giant big wheel close to the port and that’s surrounded by craft stalls theliqueurtryeverywherefromGiftsandceramicseverythingsellingfromtobagsbracelets.madecorkareandMirto–alocalmadefromberriesofthemyrtle plant.

If you’re a beach lover then you will need to hop on a local bus or train to get to one, but it’s definitely worth the trip.

And who knows, you may even bump into tv chef, Gino D’Acampo, who spends three months of the year on the Sardiniaisland. is that rare thing –an unspoilt island that has remained true to its roots and offers a real taste of Italy.

20/7/2022 – Licence to Kill

Enjoy some traditional James Bond with a screening of Licence to Kill – and if that puts you in the mood then two days later the cinema is showing another classic – The Living Daylights. Other 007 favourites will be shown over the coming months including Quantum of Solace, The World Is Not Enough, Skyfall and Spectre. We’ve been expecting you Mr Bond….

DC29/7/2022League of Super-Pets

Action adventure for all the family, when Krypto the SuperDog find himself having to rescue Superman and the rest of the Justice League from their kidnappers.

05/8/2022 – Westlife

It doesn’t matter a theatre movie, plenty of things Darlington the you our What’s sue@rineypublishing.co.uk

The Majestic music of two icons is brought together in one memorable show – namely Billy Fury and Cliff Richard. 31/7/2022 BEAUTY FAMILY PANTOMIME

Who needs to wait until Christmas for some great traditional entertainment? out this summer panto.

Live from Wembley Stadium

If you can’t see Westlife in person then this is the next best thing – watching one of their shows streamed live from Wembley Stadium at Vue.

26/9/2022 Andre Rieu’s 2022 Maastricht Summer Concert

Andre Rieu’s performances are an absolute spectacle, with a cast of top musicians playing best loved music while having a whole heap of fun. Join in the amazing atmosphere at his annual event in his home town of Masstricht.

9/9/2022 – Salem’s Lot Stephen King’s terrifying tale of vampires in a small town gets a 2022 remake. In the starring role as the hapless writer who end up among the neck biters is Lewis Pullman, recently seen alongside Tom Cruise in Top Gun: NOWBOOKMaverick.YOURTICKETSAT MYVUE.COM youngsters the – the continued student turned air his Flying Doctor a new take on a classic fairy Boeing has been more than which its tale of a successful who has three air stewardess who suddenly the the occurs a turns at teatime.

All details were correct at the time of going to press. Please check with the individual venues before travelling as information may change.

The long awaited no fault divorce is now a reality after the 6th April 2022.

The purpose of the new system is to remove unnecessary hostility from the process of divorce for separated couples, who may already be experiencing extremely challenging issues following their Divorceseparation.can now be granted without one person blaming the other. This is the most important element of no-fault divorces - the removal of blame. Couples will be able to get a divorce based solely

on the fact that the marriage has broken down, without needing to allege one of the previous 5 reasons for divorce, including adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or longer-term Theseparation.courtwill still need to be satisfied that your marriage has broken down and the importance of resolving the financial elements of the divorce will still ensure it is important to take specialist legal advice if you are going through a separation.