middlesbrough
Issue 12 - May 2017
Middlesbrough Today | 1
Your gateway to Weardale 13 miles from Durham
middlesbrough
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2 | Middlesbrough Today
Spring has finally sprung, the nights are getting lighter and Easter is right around the corner.
CONTENTS
Here at Middlesbrough Today, we’ve been busy scouting out the best shoes for the new season, the quirkiest gifts for the Easter holiday and of course, keeping our lovely readers (that’s you) up to date with some local news stories and we take a look at Lakmé which is on at The Middlesbrough Theatre in May.
And if that’s not enough to satisfy you, we caught up with Strictly Come Dancing star – and absolute dreamboat – Giovanni Pernice on his upcoming dance tour Il Ballo è Vita, which comes to Middlesbrough and South Shields this summer. Stuart Langley, a Hartlepool-based artist, has taken time to tell us all about his work designing colour, light and neon art installations for projects around the world, and there’s also a chance to win an overnight stay for 2 people at The Coquetvale Hotel situated on the edge of the Northumberland National Park and the prize includes a full Northumbrian breakfast and a 3 course evening meal. So, however you plan to spend the Easter holidays and the weeks following, we’re sure you’ll find plenty to inspire you in Middlesbrough Today.
4-7 LOCAL NEWS Read about what’s happening in and around Middlesbrough.
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6 Lakmé
Swansea City Opera return to Middlesbrough Theatre
8 ALTERNATIVE EASTER GIFTS
Check out our cracking Easter gift guide
12 ALL OF THE LIGHTS
Hartlepool artist Stuart Langley plans to take his quirky art installations global
14 GLASSHOUSES MILL
A Mill conversion in the Yorkshire Dales
17 DANCE IS LIFE
We catch up with Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice
19 STEP INTO SPRING
Put your best foot forward this spring with our top footwear picks
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20 FERNIE FARMHOUSE FUN
Bernice Saltzer enjoys a countryside break in Mindrum
Cover image: ‘geodesic’ courtesy Stuart Langley, East Durham Creates and Richard Kenworthy Photography
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO An Audience With Martin Kemp
Martin Kemp has one of the longest, most successful and varied careers in showbiz. He achieved global fame and success as Spandau Ballet soared with hits including Gold, Only When You Leave and the number one smash True. He went on to star in the film The Krays (1990) with his bandmate and brother, Gary, and in TV shows such as Waterloo Road, EastEnders and, most recently, Birds Of A Feather. He’s also written a best-selling book and won many new fans on Celebrity Big Brother. Now Martin is hitting the road as he embarks on an Audience With tour. Answer the following question to win a pair of tickets to see Martin on Friday 28th April 2017
What is the Forum Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime This Year? Box office tel 01642 552663 - www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk Closing date for entries is Wednesday 19th April.
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING Riney Publishing Limited, Sue Riney-Smith t: 01325 304360 e: sue.riney@btinternet.com
EDITORIAL Bernice Saltzer, Emma Walker, Zoe Burn and Shannon Hodge, 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.
To enter send your name, address & telephone number on a postcard to: Forum Theatre competition Middlesbrough Today Magazine competition 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, Co. Durham DL5 6LH 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.
Middlesbrough Today | 3
LOCALNEWS
Double birthday celebrations for On a Roll
Changing Futures North East appoints new team to take on life-changing programme A North East charity has made three key appointments to spearhead its pioneering Healthy Relationships Programme. Changing Futures North East has appointed Jayne Moules as the charity’s Strategic Development Manager, Nicola Walker as Consultant Psychotherapist/Practice Development Manager and Pauline Banks as Couple and Family Relationships Coordinator. The appointments will support the charity’s £1.5m grant-funded programme in carrying out ground-breaking research into building healthy relationships surrounding children.
GOOD NEIGHBOUR SCHEME LAUNCHED IN MIDDLESBROUGH AGEING Better Middlesbrough’s Peer Friendship project has launched the ‘Good Neighbour’ scheme. The project is looking for volunteers who can help people in their community with the skills they’ve got. As well as offering a befriending service, Peer Friendship is now offering individuals short term practical support – maybe a lift somewhere or someone to talk to? Good Neighbour volunteers will offer support to people in Middlesbrough with one-off jobs like moving the lawn, changing light bulbs, taking someone to an appointment or collecting library books. Peer Friendship Co-ordinatorPaula Taylor said: “The Good Neighbour scheme enables individuals to remain independent whilst providing friendly social contact and making sure people are safe and well. “It aims to tackle social isolation and loneliness through low level practical help.” All volunteers will receive training, including safeguarding. If you or someone you know have a couple of hours a week to spare and want to make a difference to someone who is lonely or isolated in your community you can call the Peer Friendship Team on 07595 453074 or email paula.taylor@actes.co.uk the projects safeguarding procedures. We use DBS (Disclosure and Barring) 4 | Middlesbrough Today
Jayne said:“For the charity to be chosen as one of only three places in the country to carry out this innovative work is an honor and the full team and I cannot wait to begin reporting our findings and looking at how we can implement change.” The Healthy Relationships Programme aims to strengthen relationships between families therefore benefitting the community in a variety of different ways. The project will begin to shift the way services work and think.
GLEESON HOMES COMMUNITY CHALLENGE ARRIVES ON TEESSIDE! FOLLOWING the success of the previous Community Challenge in Yorkshire, Gleeson Homes is introducing the competition in Teesside for the first time. This year the Community Challenge is bigger and better than ever with a makeover up for grabs worth a staggering £20,000. The Challenge will see a community-led group in Teesside offered the chance to win a makeover worth £20,000 for the renovation of their current premises, or the creation of new facilities, with Gleeson taking care of all the work. The winners of the last Community Challenge, which was run in South Yorkshire, were Croft House Settlement in Sheffield whoapplied for a makeover of their kitchen facilities which are used by over 400 people per week. Derek Newman from Croft House explains: “As a charity funded organisation we always struggle to raise money for general maintenance and decorating. “I applied for the Community Challenge in the hope that Gleeson could fit us a new kitchen, but we actually got so much more, it was amazing.” Thanks to the generosity of suppliers and subcontractors Gleeson was also able to extend the makeover to the reception area of the centre, transforming it into an attractive and welcoming entrance. Ed Alder, Regional Director for Gleeson Homes said: “We came up with the idea of the Community Challenge as community
AN INNOVATIVE sandwich manufacturer has celebrated its 10-year milestone with news it has been shortlisted in the Northern Powerhouse Northern Lights Awards this week.
(from left to right) Nicola Walker, Pauline Banks and Jayne Moules.
Changing Futures offers support to children and families across the Tees Valley, offering access to mediation, mentoring and supporting children’s education. To learn more about the organisation or the Healthy Relationships Project, visit the website here: www.changingfuturesne.co.uk
groups are always telling us they are in desperate need of help so we decided to challenge ourselves to make a big change to people’s lives. “I am delighted that this year we will be able to introduce the prize to the Teesside community!” The Community Challenge is being run in conjunction with TFM’s 2017 faces campaign, which is raising funds for disabled and disadvantaged kids in Teesside through the Cash for Kids charity. Gleeson specialises in buildings new homes which are priced to get first time buyers onto the property ladder. Their current developments on Cargo Fleet Road and in Acklam and Eston have already proved a big hit with local buyers keen to quit the rent trap and buy their own home. The Community Challenge competition is an opportunity for Gleeson to give back to the Teesside community. Gleeson is now welcoming applications which cover any type of work and will benefit people of all ages, from renovating a kitchen to making a building suitable for disabled visitors or creating a sensory area for children. The only rules are that the project is located in Teesside and the work must benefit the wider community. The closing date for applications is Monday, May 1, 2017. Gleeson will then work closely with the chosen community group before undertaking all the work in July. • For more information or to apply for the Community Challenge please visit www.gleeson-homes.co.uk/ community_matters
The Teesside-based company, which produces over 8 million sandwiches each year, invested in a £3.6m purpose-built 35,000 sqft base on Riverside Park, in Middlesbrough just over a year ago. It is also still operating out of its neighbouring 12,000 sqft base just 200 yards away. James Stoddart, Managing Director of On a Roll Sandwich Company, said: “No business ever runs smoothly and believe me we have had more than our fair share of ups and downs throughout the years, however its brilliant to know we’ve reached this milestone in the position we’re at now with hopefully an even busier year to come.
James Stoddard, Managing Director
Paul Abbott, Water Treatment Sales Manager at Hydrochem UK
“Last year was a real time of planning and development for us, when we first started out in the back room of a small bakery we had no idea how much we would grow and also of the additional challengesthat come with that growth.”
Pioneering product for water treatment expert
On a Roll delivers its food to go range across the UK to hospitals, education, travel,retailers, and many other establishments.
WATER TREATMENT EXPERT Hydrochem UK is planning a busy year, with turnover set to increase as the company becomes a national distributor for a new pioneering product.
In 2016 the company won Manufacturer of the Year in the prestigious industry Sammies, alongside winning in the Sandwich Designer of the Year category. They were also crowned Manufacturer of the Year in the Made in North East Awards, while James was shortlisted in the North East Company Director of the Year Awards.
MAKING A PLEDGE FOR NORTH ORMESBY’S FUTURE COMMUNITY leaders have joined forces in a commitment to the future of a historic part of Middlesbrough. The signing of the North Ormesby Pledge will give fresh impetus to improvements in the area’s economy, housing provision and community safety. Representatives from the Council, local community and key partners from across the public sector gathered at North Ormesby Community Hub for the launch. Among the speakers was Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd who outlined his hopes for the multi-agency plan who has been drawn up to improve the quality of life for local residents. While closely linked to the town centre, North Ormesby forms a distinct community with good transport links and Boro’s Riverside Stadium on its doorstep. The area consists of around 1,700 residential households and a population of around 3,000 residents. In 2013 North Ormesby was awarded £1 million of funding from the Big Local initiative to encourage local residents to come together to make a lasting positive difference to their community. The three-year North Ormesby Programme will build on this, bringing together a wide range of partnerships delivering local services within the community, with a firm focus on community engagement and cohesion.
The company, which is the longest serving water treatment company in the North East, will be distributing and monitoring EndoTherm, an award-winning non-corrosive heating system additive. EndoTherm has been proven to help save businesses an average of 15% on their heating bills following successful trials with the likes of museums, sports centres, NHS buildings and large homes. Most recently, the product helped Middlesbrough Council make a saving of more than 20% on its energy bills following two successful five-month trials.
Key partners at the launch of the North Ormesby Pledge L-R Ann Bailey (NONDeT), Amanda Hume (CCG), Phil Hodgeson (CAB), Claire Naylor (DWP), Jan Lewis (Big Local), Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd, Alistair Hudson (mima), Chief Superintendent Alastair Simpson (Head of Neighbourhood and Partnership Policing, (Cleveland Police), Nick Jones (Cleveland Fire Brigade), Ian Wardle (Thirteen), Brian Simpson (Middlesbrough Environment City), Angela McCann (St Alphonsus Primary School)
A Community and Wellbeing plan will address the challenges facing the community with a view to strengthening partnership working while seeking opportunities for further investment in North Ormesby. Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd said: “North Ormesby is a hugely important part of Middlesbrough’s history and heritage, but it has an equally important role to play in the town’s future. “This Pledge is an undertaking that we will all work together to make North Ormesby a caring, safe and happy place and one where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. “I have no doubt that between us this is something we will achieve, and something that will stand this area in good stead for many years to come.” Ian Wardle, chief executive at Thirteen, said: “This pledge reinforces Thirteen’s commitment to North Ormesby’s future and we will continue to work together with the community and partners to provide homes and support.”
“We’re definitely looking forward to showing our business customers this, especially after seeing firsthand what it is capable of,” said HydrochemUK’s Water Treatment Sales Manager, Paul Abbott. “We are constantly on the lookout for the newest in pioneering technology to make our customers’ savings and we really can’t wait to show our clients this product. “When we say a ‘15% reduction in energy bills’it might not sound like a lot, but imagine a business that is spending £10,000 on heating a year, that’s £1,500 that could be used for so much more. “As a business, we know all about wanting to find ways to save money but this one seems like one of the easiest. “We have plans for this to really take off and following this we’re hoping there will be further job creation at the company.” Hydrochem has been one of the leading water treatment companies in the north for almost three decades, working with both business and residential clients on a range of services including chemical cleaning, disinfection, cooling tower systems management and risk assessment.
Middlesbrough Today | 5
MIDDLESBROUGH APPRENTICES RISE TO THE CHALLENGE MIDDLESBROUGH Apprentices have risen to the Challenge in the face of stiff
TICKLE THOSE TASTE BUDS IN RESTAURANT WEEK 2017
competition.
DINERS with discerning palates can tickle their taste buds when an annual favourite returns next month.
They joined in a friendly battle with teams
Middlesbrough’s food scene is better than ever, and with this year’s Restaurant Week - from Monday, May 1 to Sunday, May 7 being the biggest yet, there has never been a better time to explore it. From independent cafés and barrestaurants to much-loved family favourites, Middlesbrough has a truly diverse dining offer that caters for all tastes.
SWANSEA CITY OPERA RETURN TO MIDDLESBROUGH THEATRE SWANSEA City Opera visit
is definitely one of those operas where
Swansea City Opera are setting their
Middlesbrough Theatre on Saturday,
you recognise the music but don’t know
production of Lakmé in India during the
May 6 with Lakmé following their
why or where from!
Raj of the 1880s, sung in English and
highly acclaimed 2016 tour of La
This jewel of an opera is best known
accompanied by chamber orchestra.
Bohème.
for the famous ‘Flower Duet’, which
If the word ‘opera’ brings an image of
has become one of the most familiar
Like Delibes’ music for his famous
a lady singing glass-shatteringly loud
numbers any composer, in any genre,
in French and that thought sends you
has ever written, even used by our
running to the hills, you’re missing out!
national airline on their TV ads as the
Many operas are so famous that they’ve
peaceful accompaniment to a jetliner
entered into popular culture and Lakmé
floating through wispy clouds!
Middlesbrough Theatre this May.
As so often with operas that become
There will be a pre-performance talk
famous for a particular tune however,
about the opera and production given
Lakmé contains many other hidden
by the Artistic Director of Swansea City
musical gems including the stratospheric
Opera, Brendan Wheatley at 6.15pm.
ballet Coppélia, the orchestral scoring for Lakmé is delicious and as the opera remains a relative rarity, don’t miss this golden opportunity to hear and see it at
and challenging ‘Bell Song’. Like other French operas of the period,
To book tickets for Lakmé or for
it captures the ambience of the Orient
more information contact the
seen through Western eyes and, topically
Middlesbrough Theatre Box Office
for today, tells of religious tensions and
on 01642 81 51 81 or book online at
conflict leading to personal sacrifice,
www.middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk
heartbreak and death. 6 | Middlesbrough Today
With a variety of special menus, limited edition dishes and fantastic prices in restaurants in the town centre, Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to sample what Middlesbrough has to offer. You could eat out every day during Middlesbrough Restaurant Week and never get bored, with cuisines ranging from Mexican and Best of British to AfricanCaribbean and Italian. Flavours from around the world are on our doorstep, and there has never been a better time to try something new! Middlesbrough is passionate about supporting local suppliers and producers, and many restaurants participating in this year’s Restaurant Week are listed on the Growing Middlesbrough directory. Sharon Thomas, Middlesbrough Council’s Director of Culture and Communities, said: “The last few years have seen Middlesbrough establish a regional reputation for first class culture and leisure, and eating out plays a key role in that offer. “Our truly cosmopolitan range of independent restaurants, cafes, bistros and micro pubs is growing all the time, and there really is something for everyone. “Restaurant Week 2017 is an open invitation to residents and visitors to enjoy fantastic food together with some unbeatable offers.”
A five-strong team from Middlesbrough Council’s Community Learning Service took the honours in the 2017 Tees Valley Apprenticeship Challenge as part of National Apprenticeship Week. of fellow apprentices from Darlington, Hartlepool, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton Councils in range of activities including archery, den building, team Games and orienteering. The Apprenticeship Challenge – now in its fifth year - took place at Hartlepool’s Summerhill outdoor Activity Centre and this year was hosted by Darlington Council. The winning team members from Middlesbrough Laura Harrison, Dillon Newton, Amelia Graham, Chloe Gill and Holly Davies - were awarded a medal and each received a congratulatory gift voucher.
The winning Middlesbrough team in the 2017 Tees Valley Apprenticeship Challenge (L-R) Laura Harrison, Dillon Newton, Amelia Graham, Chloe Gill and Holly Davies.
Ann White, Apprenticeships Coordinator for Middlesbrough Community Learning, said: “It was a great day enjoyed by all and our team excelled themselves with their enthusiasm and team spirit. “They are a credit to Middlesbrough Council and their respective employing organisations. “I was very proud of their performance and their positive approach to each activity. “Well done!” Middlesbrough Council are looking forward to hosting next year’s event. • Employers and would-be apprentices can find out more about Middlesbrough Council – Middlesbrough Community Learning apprenticeships by calling Ann White on 01642 729678.
TRANSPORT TRUST HERITAGE AWARD UNVEILED AT TRANSPORTER BRIDGE SIR William McAlpine officially unveiled the Transport Trust Red Wheel plaque as dozens turned out to celebrate the Tees Transporter Bridge’s transport heritage significance. The Red Wheel award was one of two presented along the Tees Valley on Friday (April 7), with the Cleveland Bridgedesigned Transporter Bridge becoming the 89th site recognised by the Trust, followed by an unveiling at the 90th site – the Stockton & Darlington Railway’s Hopetown Carriage Works. The Tees Transporter Bridge joins an elite list of transport heritage landmarks recognised by the Transport Trust, the only charity devoted to the conservation, restoration and promotion of Britain’s transport heritage nationally and across all modes of transport - by land, air and water. Other sites in the region include nearby Saltburn Cliff Lift and Shildon’s Soho House.
L-R Peter Stone (Transport Trust), Councillor Lewis Young (MBC), Paul Tidy (Transporter Bridge), Stephen Middleton (Transport Trust) and Sir William McAlpine (Transport Trust).
President of the Trust Sir William McAlpine, who praised the north east and the region’s spirit, said: “The idea of the Transport Trust Red Wheel plaques is to draw attention and provide information for visitors about interesting, wonderful constructions – buildings, bridges, canals – all over the country.” Tosh Warwick, Middlesbrough Council’s Heritage Development Officer, said: “The event displayed the enthusiasm and passion for one of the region’s most iconic landmarks and we expect this latest award will generate further interest in our bridge amongst transport enthusiasts across the nation.”
Middlesbrough Today | 7
ALTERNATIVE EASTER GIFTS
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by Shannon Hodge
If you want to steer clear of shop-bought chocolate eggs in favour of something a little bit different this Easter, then take a look at our alternative gift guide. With everything from cocoa-inspired beauty treats, bunny babygrows and chocolateinfused beverages to spring scents and a chocolate lolly maker, there is something for everyone.
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1 Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter,
One hour tan mousse £7.99
2 Twinings Nutty Chocolate Assam £3.49
www.twinings.co.uk 3 JoJo Maman Bébé - Bunny Applique 15
Sleepsuit £16 www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
4 Leighton Denny LIGHT & DARK Delightful 14 6 8
EDP £43.50 70ml LD-Boutique.com
5 Iconic London Limited Edition Illuminator
Original £29.99 at www.iconiclondoninc.om
6 ScandiKitchen, Large Filled Easter Egg £9
www.scandikitchen.co.uk 7 Iconic London Cream Contour Palette
7
£32.99 at www.iconiclondoninc.com
8 The Body Shop, Chocomania™ Shower
Cream 250ml £5
9 Lush Chick ‘n’ Mix bath bomb £6.95 10 Meantime Brewing, Chocolate Porter £21.99
case of 12 www.meantimebrewing.com
11 Tudor Times, Knot Garden Seymour Mugs
£12 shop.tudortimes.co.uk
12 M&Co, Bunny comforter £8
www.mandco.com 13 John Adams Chocolate Lolly Maker £17.99
johnadams.co.uk 14 HARIBO Chick ‘n’ Mix, £2
Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s
15 EL Voyage Luxury Woven Scarf
8 | Middlesbrough Today
www.elvoyage.com £50 RRP
Middlesbrough Today | 9
FAMILY ADVENTURES AT LIGHTWATER VALLEY THEME PARK Take on a day out packed with thrills, chills and adventure at Lightwater Valley Theme Park. With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, Lightwater Valley Theme Park is bursting with mini, mega and ultimate adventures for the whole family and is open throughout the Easter holidays from Saturday 8th until Sunday 23rd April.
Mini adventures are for our youngest guests (aged 1-5 years) and offer fantastic family fun, they include; the UK’s largest indoor and outdoor Angry Birds Activity Park, the Lightwater Express train ride around the park, Eagle’s Creek Farm tractor ride with animals a selection of fairground and water rides and new for 2017 our Adventure Playground and Mini Sand Diggers. Plus don’t forget to visit our indoor Soft Play & Cafe perfect for under 8s to run off some energy while Mum and Dad have a seat and a relaxing coffee.
junior thrill seekers over one metre (aged 5 - 9 years), they include; the splashtastic Falls of Terror with sharp turns and sudden drops, swashbuckling adventures aboard our speedy Skull Rock and the tummytickling Flying Cutlass Plus new for 2017 take to the sky in our Flying Nellies and jump around on our huge Jumpin’ Jacks! bouncy pillow.
Lightwater Valley is a full day adventure for the whole family; we offer great value for money, with a pay once and ride all day entrance and you’ll even find FREE parking! We have an exciting range of family friendly events for 2017 including:
• Superheroes Live! - Sat 3 & Sun 4 June • The Ultimate Plunge - Sat 1 July • Andy Day’s Prehistoric Raps Show - Sat 12 & Sun 13 Aug • Mister Maker Live! - Sat 26 & Sun 27 Aug • Frightwater Valley - Thurs 26 - Sun 29 Oct • Fabulous Fireworks - Sat 4 Nov Book online in advance at www.lightwatervalley.co.uk to save up to 30% off tickets. 10 | Middlesbrough Today
SAVE UP TO
£90!
Ultimate Adventures are for anyone with the nerves to face up to the challenge! (over 1.2m in height and 9 to adults). Be thrown into the air in the grip of our Eagle’s Claw, hurtle through deep, dark forests aboard Europe’s longest roller coaster The Ultimate and venture into the underground world of Raptor Attack, then hop on Apollo and take a spinning ride above the tree tops.
WIN A FAMILY TICKET
TO VISIT LIGHTWATER VALLEY For a chance to win a family pass for up to 6 people simply answer the following question:
What is new for 2017 in Mini adventures? To enter this competition send your answer on a postcard to: Middlesbrough Today Lightwater Valley Competition, 45 Atkinson Gardens Aycliffe Village, Co. Durham DL5 6LH Closing date for entries is 8th May 2017. No cash alternative.
Take on a day out packed with thrills, chills and adventure at Lightwater Valley Theme Park in Ripon, North Yorkshire. With over 40 rides and attractions for thrill seekers of all ages, Lightwater Valley is bursting with mini, mega and ultimate adventures for the whole family. For 2017 we have four new attractions; let loose on our Interactive Adventure Playground, take to the skies in Flying Nellies, excavate with our Mini Sand Diggers or jump around on our huge Jumpin’ Jacks! bouncy pillow. We offer great value for money, with a pay once and ride all day entrance, plus you’ll even find FREE parking! We are open throughout the Easter holidays, visit www.lightwatervalley.co.uk to check dates and use the voucher below to get 2 for 1 entry for up to 6 people.
Redeem this voucher on the day of your visit to gain 2 for 1 entry during April 2017 (saving up to £90). Max 6 people admitted per voucher. Offer expires 1st May 2017. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or Tesco Clubcard. Saving based on full adult pay on the day price of £30. Voucher Code: MT
✁
Mega adventures are for our
HAIR RAISING FAMILY VALUE!
lightwatervalley.co.uk Lightwater Valley, North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. Tel: 01765 635321 Middlesbrough Today | 11
“A lot of the work I do is inspired by the North East and many of the materials I use, including sea glass, are sourced right here in the region.
Having worked as a graphic designer for 10 years, Stuart’s journey as a light artist began when in 2013, he entered the Lumiere Durham BRILLIANT programme. The programme is for people in the North East to pitch their ideas for a light installation and Stuart’s idea - to create three stained glass cars with Reliant Robin vehicles - was commissioned. Due in large part to the exposure gained through the scheme, Stuart has gone on to exhibit artworks at ilight Marina Bay Singapore, Nuit Blanche Brussels, illuminating York and Download music festival among others.
MEET THE MAKER: STUART LANGLEY From Brussels to Singapore, a Darlington artist is lighting up the eyes of art-lovers around the globe with his quirky art installations. And now 34-year-old Stuart Langley, an artist and designer working with colour, light, neon and sea glass from North East beaches, hopes to showcase even more of his work overseas, with plans in the pipeline for huge projects abroad.
One of his largest installations to date is the Wave, which he created for Lumiere Durham 2015 and involved collecting over half a ton of sea glass from local beaches, including Sunderland and Seaham, to turn into a giant three metre light sculpture.
“Thanks to my big break at Lumiere Durham, I’m now at a point where I’m working my dream job as a full-time artist and have a whole host of exciting commissions in the pipeline – so keep your eyes peeled, Darlington.”
Originally starting out as a light artist, Stuart’s skillset has continued to expand after a successful Arts Council England grant application has allowed him to develop as a neon artist and combine the fascinating medium with a range of materials he already uses including stained glass and LED Matrix displays. Speaking on his success, Stuart said: “After being a graphic designer for many years, I knew I wanted to try something different. My knowledge of light and colour art led me to enter Lumiere Durham’s BRILLIANT programme and ever since that commission, I haven’t looked back. “The support from the Arts Council has enabled me to not only learn new art-forms but also to collaborate with other people, including artists and engineers, and really push myself as an artist,” he said.
12 | Middlesbrough Today
Main Image courtesy East Durham Creates / Richard Kenworthy Photography
Middlesbrough Today | 13
YORKSHIRE DALES MILL CONVERSION TO OFFER IDYLLIC NEW HOMES Conversion specialist, Newby, has purchased an historic mill building in the picturesque village of Glasshouses in Nidderdale with plans to transform it into a selection of unique residential properties.
GLASSHOUSES MILL - A brief history A summary by Chris. Hawkesworth. One of the most significant buildings of Upper Nidderdale, Glasshouses Mill, or to use its full title Glass House Mills has had a long and distinguished history. The first mention of the hamlet of Glasshouses comes in the Fountains Cartulary of 1387 referring to “Our glasshouse in Nidderdale”, presumed to be the place where the glass for the great abbey windows was produced. Though there is no direct evidence of glassmaking on the mill site, glassmaking must have been close by due to the local presence of raw materials. The next big development came when the roads of the area were turnpiked in 1756 and 1759. This enabled Glass House, then a Corn Mill to expand, and in 1812 part of it was leased for the spinning of “Tow” the short fibres of flax and hemp. At that time, Glass House Mill was a twostory block parallel to the river and powered by two small water wheels fed by a “goit”, [mill race]. For a long time the Corn Mill operated at night and the Flax Mill during the day to efficiently utilise the then un-dammed water. The Flax expanded and the corn mill declined and in 1836 the East Wing was added followed in 1837 by the West wing, which was built and extended further in 1844 to add offices, stores, and importantly a school room. 14 | Middlesbrough Today
Running out of power for the machinery was always an issue, and in 1850 the then owners, the Metcalfe family bought and then excavated the Mill Pond making it both ornamental and functional. The island at its centre being used by a band with fireworks on several important occasions. [Such as the end of the Crimean War and the marriage of the Mill owner’s daughter. Upon completion, a 120-horsepower water wheel, 25 feet in diameter, 21 feet across was installed by Fairburn Lawson of Manchester. Followed 6 years later by a steam engine [the outline of the flywheel can still be seen in the mill basement] and a turbine. The big Fairburn wheel, the most powerful in the country at that time, went out of use when the mill line-shafting was electrified, and was removed in the 1980’s and is to be seen today, fully restored at the National Trust property at Quarry Bank Mills, Styal, Cheshire. The old square mill chimney as demolished in 1867 and replace by 120 ft. circular chimney which was in turn demolished in 1982. In 1862 the mill buildings were enlarged again to 3 storeys with a clock and bell to summon the work people. The workforce grew from a 70 in 1833 to over 400 by 1871. The mill spun yarn for the Great Exhibition of 1851. The Mill and its owners were literally the power house of the upper dale. The gas works started in 1864 subsequently provided
heat and light for the mill and village. The Mill built the village reservoir at Blue Plain to bring drinking water to the village and water to the mill for its various processes. The Mill owners, the Metcalfe’s also paid for 50% of the railway, owned local quarries, breweries, shops and sponsored the local school. However, by 1899 business declined and went into bankruptcy and closure in 1907. It remained closed until 1912 when Frederick Atkinson bought it. During the first world war the mill made tug ropes and hawsers for the Royal Navy and other large ships and during the Second World War it made Camouflage netting. Atkinsons continued to make string and ropes until the late 1960’s when the war between East and West Pakistan put an end to their raw material supplies. In 1971 the Mill was bought by Chris. Hawkesworth primarily for his own water sport manufacturing requirements. The rest of the space was converted into offices and small commercial units. Their occupants making Curtains, soft furnishings, sails for boats, warehousing for the RNLI charity, plus food processing, various painters, other artists, and other cottage industries. The mill flourished with 30 or so different firms employing at their peak over 150 persons. By the mid 1990’s the mill was again in decline. It took 15 years to achieve a change of use to predominantly residential and in 2016 work started on the refurbishment.
Glasshouses Mill will be restored to its former glory to offer approximately 40 modern homes in the heart of the stunning Yorkshire Dales. The scheme is to offer a combination of three and four bedroom town houses, two bedroom properties and two and three bedroom apartments that cater for all buyer groups. The historic character of the building, for which the original clock tower is to be retained, means that each property will be unique in design. Features will make the most of the idyllic riverside setting and embrace the outdoor life to support pursuits that the local area is famous for, such as fishing and rambling. Thought to be the site where glass was made for the great Fountains Abbey in 1387, Glasshouses Mill was officially documented as a corn mill from 1812. As corn production declined it converted to a flax
mill with various extensions between 1836 and 1844 and employed over 400 people at its peak. In 1899 the cherished building was converted to hemp spinning and rope making and it is the local understanding that the mill made rope for the infamous RMS Titanic. More recently it has been used for a variety of businesses before Newby secured a joint venture partnership with a Pateley Bridge resident who has owned the mill for 46 years. Newby co-founder Nick Moody said, “This an investment close to my heart. I grew up in the area and live just a few miles away and had often passed the mill with great aspirations to convert it. The site owner wanted to secure the future of the mill with a safe pair of hands and recognised that we have the credentials and local knowledge to preserve its future in the right way. “Glasshouses is only a 30-minute drive to Harrogate and just one mile from Pateley Bridge which won best UK village high street last year. It really is the most idyllic place to live at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and the building itself is right on the River Nidd with sensational views. “We expect to sell properties quickly since many of the units will be affordable to the first-time buyer and young professionals market, supporting those that are perhaps leaving the family home but want to stay in the area. The development is also an ideal retreat for people working in Harrogate, Ripon and even Leeds
and provides a selection of stunning family homes.” Attributes to the local area include Brimham Rocks, the River Nidd, The Nidderdale Way Walk, The Pateley Bridge Show and England’s oldest sweet shop! Glasshouses has its own primary school and village square and The Michelin starred Yorke Arms is also close by. Newby was set up in 2008 by the former directors of award winning city living pioneer City Lofts. The group is known for its experience, credentials and successes in transforming redundant heritage buildings into prime residential space. In 2016 it completed the transformation of office space at Windsor Court in Harrogate into 27 luxury apartments and in 2015 it converted a former coaching Inn at 32 Devonshire Place in Harrogate into 12 well-appointed apartments and a mews house overlooking The Stray. More recently Newby announced the purchase of the former Nestle factory in York with plans to convert into 263 apartments with amenities. Harrogate property agent Nicholls Tyreman will be marketing the scheme. James Tyreman said, “We are delighted to be the selling Agents for what will be one of the most exciting developments in the Nidderdale valley for a very long time. It is such a rarity to be involved in the redevelopment of an unspoilt stone built Yorkshire Mill of this nature, and to be able to market these exclusive homes with so many original features, and such beautiful surrounding countryside is exciting.” Newby is already on site preparing for the conversion and expects to complete the first phase by Autumn 2018 with a sales launch later this year. To register interest contact Nicholls Tyreman on 01423 503076.
Middlesbrough Today | 15
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HE’S THE GOLDEN BOY OF STRICTLY COME DANCING – AND NOW HE’S HEADING TO THE NORTH EAST ON HIS FIRST EVER SOLO TOUR. BERNICE SALTZER HOT STEPS IT TO MEET GIOVANNI PERNICE.
Not that long ago ballroom dancing was something that your mum and dad – or even your gran and grandad – did. It was a mystery to those of a certain age, whose preference for dancing involved a lot of freestyle shaking and gyrating without the restrictions of holding a partner to set moves. And then along came a television programme which revolutionised what people thought about ballroom – making it cool, trendy and with widespread appeal to a new generation. Strictly Come Dancing has now become as much a part of the run-up to Christmas as buying presents and taking the kids to visit Santa. Every year a troupe of fabulous professionals are teamed with willing celebrities who undergo intensive training to try and win the coveted glitterball. What the programme has also done is made television starts out of the dancers – and that’s certainly true of Sicilian-born Giovanni Pernice, who is now about to embark on his very first solo tour.
Just 27, Giovanni is however a veteran of the dance floor, starting his love affair with ballroom at the age of seven. “My parents were keener on me being a footballer than a dancer,” he revealed. “But I just wanted to learn to dance. I watched Come Dancing on television and I loved it, I knew it was what I was meant to do.” At the tender age of 14 Giovanni was offered a place at a famous dance school in Bologna, leaving home and fending for himself. His dancing went from strength to strength, with the young Giovanni winning endless competitions and making a real name for himself. Then two years ago the call came from the BBC and he suddenly found himself part of the Strictly family. “It’s an incredible experience and nothing prepares you for it,” he said. Although Giovanni is currently waiting for the call to see if he will be back again for the 2017 season, he certainly has plenty to keep him occupied in the meantime. He is preparing to visit 31 towns and cities across the country with his Il Ballo è Vita tour, showcasing his incredible dancing talent. He will be joined by Strictly troupe dancer Luba Mushtuk and a team of fellow dancing professionals in the show, which has been directed and choreographed by BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing creative director, Jason Gilkison. Il Ballo è Vita – Italian for Dance is Life – is a love story set in a Sicilian café bar. Leading man Giovanni thinks he has found love, but not everything is as easy as it first appears. It features classic dances like the
Quickstep, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Argentine Tango, along with Giovanni’s signature move, the Jive. “I’m very excited about my first ever tour, it’s incredible to be able to do what I love and take it around the UK for audiences to enjoy,” he said. “The title translates as ‘dance is life’ which is an expression I have always believed in. “Dancing is my life, and with the help of some very talented people we have created this story filled with some of my all-time favourite dance styles. The show is not just a dance performance, but also a beautiful love story.”
North East audiences will have a number of opportunities to see Giovanni in action, with performances in both Middlesbrough and South Shields. Tickets are available to purchase now, with prices starting at £27. To book or for further information, visit www.ents24.com/uk/tourdates/giovanni-pernice Middlesbrough Today | 17
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WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT THE COQUETVALE Located in the nineteenth century country town of Rothbury, on the edge of the Northumberland National Park, The Coquetvale is perfect for a relaxing break in beautiful countryside or the ideal base for walking, cycling or many outdoor pursuits. The stunning Cragside House and grounds are a 5 minute drive away as are the breath-taking Simonside Hills. A little further afield Alnwick Castle and Gardens as well as the stunning coastline with Bamburgh Castle and Holy Island being landmarks. The Coquetvale offers the finest Northumberland welcome, offering 14 well-appointed ensuite bedrooms. Boasting a combination of double, twin, family and 2 stunning very recently refurbished superior suites. The hotel recognises that many of the visitors to this spectacular area are those of the 4-legged variety and therefore is very dog friendly. The grand restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern, with its high ceilings, featuring ornate rose and cornice, decorated in subtle grey and silver – with stunning double aspect picturesque windows and views
by Shannon Hodge
towards the Northumberland National Park and Coquet Valley. An experienced team of Chefs offer tempting dishes with many seasonal and daily specials. There truly is something for everyone, not to mention the award winning breakfast, which boasts locally sourced ingredients. The bar offers a diverse selection of wines, guest ales both on tap and bottle, premium spirits and fine wines. The bar is also accessible to our relaxing decked terrace with comfortable seating and panoramic views of Rothbury – weather permitting. Recently under new ownership, the family, with a wealth of hotel experience, are focussed on delivering a truly special guest experience in terms of both service and product, so with that in mind have already commenced a gradual and discreet refurbishment programme of all areas.
The Coquetvale, Station Road, Rothbury, NE65 7QH, Northumberland
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Middlesbrough Today Coquetvale Competition, 45 Atkinson Gardens Aycliffe Village, Co. Durham DL5 6LH
Aiyana - £80 - Gracious - £75 - Moella - £85 Breya - £55 4 Next, Red sling back shoe £38 5 River Island, Mens canvas trainers £25 6 Next, Retro boys trainers £8.50 7 Next, Girls ghillie shoes £16 8 Primark, Embroidered trainer £10 9 Marks and Spencer, Nude ballet pumps £19.50 10 New Look, Grey floral boots £37.99 11 River Island kids 12 River Island, Gingham high heels £42 13 River Island, Floral platforms £45
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The winner of this competition from the March issue of Middlesbrough Today was Mrs. C Smith of Middlesbrough
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18 | Middlesbrough Today
STEP INTO SPRING
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Middlesbrough Today | 19
Beautiful, comfortable bedrooms with real attention to style and detail were greatly appreciated by everyone – and thankfully there are more than enough bathrooms to go round! Although ours was a winter weekend, there would be huge advantages to booking this fabulous house in the summer too. The gardens and surroundings are stunning, the perfect place for a picnic or even a barbeque.
A LITTLE SLICE OF HEAVEN…. Want to get away from it all and enjoy the kind of house you’ve always dreamed about? BERNICE SALTZER might just have the answer… If further proof was needed that our break really was in the heart of the countryside it was to be found on the bit of film that I took within minutes of arriving at our countryside retreat. Overwhelmed by the beauty of the surroundings and the unspoilt, winter wonderland created by a light dusting of snow, I quickly got out my phone and recorded a panoramic sweep of the house and its grounds. Posting it on social media, I immediately was inundated with messages from friends not just envious of our location but also by the fact I had – unknowingly – captured the moment a deer had run through the garden. 20 | Middlesbrough Today
It was a magical moment and the perfect launch pad for an idyllic few days spent at Fernie, a country cottage right in the heart of rural Northumberland. Looking for a place where a group of friends could get together to celebrate a birthday led me to Crabtree & Crabtree, an amazing local company which offers a range of holiday properties to let across Northumberland, the Scottish Borders and East Lothian. Mindful that our little group was coming together from a number of locations, we finally settled on Fernie in the tiny village of Mindrum, close to both Kelso and Coldstream.
There’s not a detail that’s been missed and in the comfortable sitting room – where joy of joys there’s a real log fire – you open the doors to what looks like
a cupboard to find a bar stocked with every size of glass and its own fridge. An upper level, additional sitting room has been thoughtfully added on to the house, a great place for an escape if anyone just wants to sit down and read a book or just simply chill out.
it would be the perfect spot for a company for a team building exercise, a mini retreat or for a business wanting to reward their staff. For us it was a magical few days to celebrate a birthday and everybody in our group was sad to leave – but
The owners have thoughtfully provided a guide on everything to do and with some great tips on where enthusiastic walkers can go and get the very best views of the surrounding areas. Fernie isn’t just the ideal location for a get together for a group like ours,
more than happy with the prospect of going back.
For information about Fernie or other properties available for weekend and longer breaks, visit www.crabtreeandcrabtree.com
Trekking up the bumpy farm track to the house, we were amazed by what was to greet us – a true, home from home and the perfect location for a house party. Lovingly created by its owners, Fernie was originally a shepherd’s cottage which was extended into the near-by barn, which explains the magnificent high ceilings and authentic beams in the main part of the house. The result is one, six bedroomed house with every comfort and convenience you can possibly think of. No country kitchen would be complete without an Aga, which was perfect for us to cook our dinner for ten which we served in the elegant dining room. Middlesbrough Today | 21
AN EVENING WITH
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Be part of our next grand marquee event with multi-million record-selling artist Heather Small The black tie evening hosted by Smooth Radio includes a three course meal and a 75 minute performance by Heather Small followed by a disco. The evening will be held in aid of the Graham Wylie Foundation, with a raffle and silent auction. Tickets are available from £95 per person VIP meet and greet, corporate hospitality and residential options are also available To book your place call
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www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 enquiries@rockliffehall.com 22 | Darlington Today
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