Issue 6 - Aug/Sep 2015
local, relevant and entertaining WELCOME
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Whether you’re enjoying the summer sunshine or sheltering from an unseasonal downpour, this issue of Middlesbrough Today is sure to keep you entertained. Turn to p.4 for a round up of local news or join us as we take a look around Wynyard Hall’s new walled garden on p.17. We’re also sharing some top tips on how to keep costs low this summer and giving you the chance to win an overnight stay for two people at two top North East hotels. p.22 will give you the run down on what’s on in the area including Theatre, Summer days out and getting the little ones involved with wildlife.
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CONTENTS 4
5
Happy reading everyone!
14 SUMMER ON A SHOESTRING
An overnight stay for two at BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel goes to: K McNicholl An overnight stay for two at BEST WESTERN Cedar Court Bradford goes to: K Forster The two lucky winners of an REF Hair Care bundle are: G Harrison & K Swan The winner of an Aeramax Air Purifier is: A Wooler Issue 48 - March/April 2015 ISSN 1745-4654
Issue 49 - May/June 2015 ISSN 1745-4654
Issue 46 - Nov/Dec 2014 ISSN 1745-4654
Issue 47 - Feb/March 2015 ISSN 1745-4654
Local news
Skating stars
Interviews
Dazzling dancers
Events
News, competitions and more…
Issue 43 - May/June 2014 ISSN 1745-4654
50 Inside
Inside
Local news
Gardens Galore
Enjoy a night on Tyneside
Distinctly Delicious Darlington Festival of Food
Fun & Follies
Winter Fashion Tips Competitions
& more...
Issue 37 – June/July 2013 ISSN 1745-4654
Inside Local news Victorian Market Vintage fashion Competitions And more....
Golfing Greats
Holiday Hotspots
Gabrielle & more....
Competitions & more....
Issue 36 – April/May 2013 ISSN 1745-4654
Inside
Local news
Plus
Win a Hotel Stay, Handmade Chocolates and Much, Much More…
Competitions
Issue 32 – July / August 2012 15/3/13 13:32:31 ISSN 1745-4654
DT Issue 35.indd 1
darlington
Distinctly Delicious Darlington Festival of Food Family Fun Competitions & more....
BRAMWELLS JEWELLERS A Special par t of Chr istmas since 1867
Issue 30 – April 2012 ISSN 1745-4654
Bramwells 4 page wrap around Darlington Today – a full copy of the magazine can be found inside
Riney Publishing also specialise in producing High Quality magazines written by Award Winning Journalists for Hotel & Bridal Venus & Schools.
Full Service of Design, Print & Advertising sales is available. Inside:
Inside:
Inside:
Great Expectations
Inside:
Liza Goddard interviewed
The real Anne Boleyn
Spine-chilling tales
Jess Conrad interviewed
Wildlife amid industry
Remembering the shipyards
All eyes turn to London
Leeds, a city of endless varieties
News and views
11/9/12 12:36:17
DT Issue 32.indd 1
Bumper what’s on
Competitions round-up
Competitions round-up
Competitions a plenty
DT Issue 33.indd 1
11/7/12 09:25:59
DT Issue 31.indd 1
Competitions round-up
15/5/12 14:04:59
DT Issue 30.indd 1
20 COMPETITIONS
Up for grabs!
22 WHAT’S ON
Run down of what’s happening in the area
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING
Local news
Issue 31 – June 2012 31/1/13 09:22:07 ISSN 1745-4654
newest attraction
To Advertise in Middlesbrough Today, Darlington Today or the newly launched Hartlepool Today magazine please call Sue Riney-Smith on 01325 304360 or email sue.riney@btinternet.com for rates & distribution details.
Inside
Issue 35 – February/March 2013 ISSN 1745-4654
Competition – Tickets to see Bon Jovi at the Stadium Of Light
Easter treats
Toyah Willcox Days out
DT Issue 36 32pp.indd 1
Issue 42 - April/May 2014 ISSN 1745-4654
Inside
And more....
Issue 33 – September/October 2012 21/5/13 13:46:50 ISSN 1745-4654
Inside... Local news | Crafty Christmas | Shopping made simple Competitions & More.....
and more…
ISSUE
Inside Coronation Street star shares her secrets…
DT Issue 37.indd 1
Competitions
Issue 44 - July/August 2014 ISSN 1745-4654
Issue 45 - Sept/Oct 2014 ISSN 1745-4654
Keep costs low throughout the season
17 THE GARDENS AT WYNYARD HALL Take a peek inside the North East’s
WINNERS MT 5
NEWS
Catch up with the latest stories from across the town
19/3/12 14:38:33
Cover image: the lift at Saltburn by David Muscroft
Riney Publishing Limited, Sue Riney-Smith t: 01325 304360 e: sue.riney@btinternet.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.
Middlesbrough Today | 3
LOCAL NEWS
GET SET FOR TEES PRIDE 10K CHARITY CHALLENGE The countdown is on as runners limber up for one of the region’s best loved events.
A WILD SUMMER AT THE DORMAN MUSEUM British wildlife is the theme of the summer exhibition at Middlesbrough’s Dorman Museum.
STEM CENTRE TO OPEN IN SEPTEMBER Andy Buckworth has been appointed executive director at the employerfocused £20m training centre being built at Middlesbrough College. The STEM centre will open in September providing employers and students with world class training in science, technology, engineering and maths. Andy, who grew up in the North East, says he’s delighted to take charge at the centre, which will provide real solutions to the skill challenges faced by employers.
Have you ever been up close to a gannet in full dive as it plummets towards the sea to catch fish, or managed to catch a glimpse of the elusive red squirrel as it scampers into the trees above you? He said: “It would be an understatement to say I’m excited. “The opportunity that exists within the North East for inward investment and growth of our regional industries is huge, but it must be matched by a world class skills and competency base - the £20m STEM Centre at Middlesbrough College is set to deliver those skills and competencies.”
Newly-opened exhibition ‘Wild’ lets visitors get up close with taxidermy specimens of British wildlife, from the common sparrow to the majestic Atlantic salmon. Visitors can also learn about the biology and ecology of the animals featured. The exhibition is accompanied by beautiful landscape photography images to help children understand different habitats, and interactive games including a puppet theatre.
BOHO FIVE READY TO WELCOME BUSINESSES A £4m state-of-the-art building at the heart of one of the region’s key regeneration sites is getting ready to welcome digital and creative businesses.
SUMMER AT THE CAPTAIN COOK BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM Fearsome sea creatures are on the menu at Middlesbrough’s Captain Cook Birthplace Museum this summer. Pacific Predators, the 2015 season’s popular exhibition, looks at three of the sea’s greatest predators – the sperm whale, the tiger shark and the colossal squid. Inquisitive visitors can learn about the animals, their lifestyles and diets, and their roles in the ocean habitat. The exhibition also explores the human relationship with those animals, from differing cultural perspectives, and changing attitudes between Cook’s time and the present day.
The Taylor Wimpey Tees Pride 10k and mima 3k Fun Run goes under starter’s orders on Sunday, September 6, with organisers hoping for a record turnout. The event – now in its eleventh year – will build on the success of the biggest ever Cleveland Centre 5k Riverside Run which drew thousands of runners and walkers in May. And once again thousands of runners will be pounding the streets to raise
much needed funds for a wide variety of local and national good causes. Run Middlesbrough’s Sport Events Charities Team (SECT) will be out in force, with Daisy Chain and Hope for Holly named as this year’s joint lead charities.
BEDFORD STREET’S INDIE FOOD & DRINK OUTLETS REVEALED A gourmet pizza kitchen, coffee specialist, bakery, pie shop, a cocktail bar, micro-pub and restaurant specialising in smoked meat are among the new businesses planned for Middlesbrough’s independent quarter. The redevelopment of empty premises currently ongoing on Bedford Street in the town centre is due to be completed by December this year. Middlesbrough Council has now selected the eight independent food and beverage businesses that will help make a reality of the ambition for a “21st Century culinary bazaar”.
The development of Bedford Street follows on from the success of the adjacent Baker Street which has seen a series of niche new businesses open up over the past 24 months including eateries, micro-pubs, salons and vintage clothes shops. Public realm works to improve the look of Bedford Street will take place in October to complement the vastly improved terraced properties currently being worked on.
Entry to the Pacific Predators exhibition is free, but museum entry charges still apply.
The six-floor Boho Five business unit, the latest addition to the town’s Boho Zone in Middlehaven, Middlesbrough is set to open officially in the near future. Developed in partnership by the Homes and Communities Agency and Middlesbrough Council through European Regional Development Fund and HCA investment, Boho Five will operate in close partnership with DigitalCity Business. Boho Five aims to build upon the success of the nearby Boho One, which opened in 2009, with tenants set to benefit from their expert advice, mentoring programme and sector support. 4 | Middlesbrough Today
Middlesbrough Today | 5
finding room to foster Young people in care need a place to stay and a place in your life. If you’ve got room to foster, call Foster Care Associates today on 0800 022 4012.
Image: Margaret Harrison, The Last Gaze, 2013. Oil on canvas. 161 x 131.4 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Silberkuppe, Berlin.
careis...
New at mima
world, Localism restates the vitally important role of a local focus in the development of art and society.
Using our Collections
Margaret Harrison
11 August - 11 October This project offers a place to experiment with new ways to use mima’s collection through the lens of its new vision as a useful museum. It is an active, changing presentation based on a dialogue between staff and the public which determines the feature displays in the gallery. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to interact with works including ceramics, painting and jewellery. Visitors are encouraged to browse and study the pieces and to consider how the works can be used as teaching tools or as stimuli for making things.
Localism
0800 022 4012
fosterwithfca.co.uk
23 October - 24 January Yorkshire-born Margaret Harrison is one of today’s most significant artists. For over 50 years she has challenged the establishment with a humorous, feminist, subversive and immensely skilful practice that has been highly effective in forcing real changes in social attitudes. Examples include Beautiful Ugly Violence, 2004 and Women and Work: A Document on the Division of Labour in Industry, 1973 - 1975 (with Mary Kelly and Kay Hunt). Now living and working between Cumbria and California, Margaret won the Northern Art Prize in 2013 and this is a key presentation of her work in the UK.
Developed in collaboration with artist Tania Bruguera, the Van Abbemuseum and the Internationale Confederation of European Museums as part of the Uses of Art programme funded by the European Culture fund and Arts Council England.
Look out for . . . Summer holiday art trolley Tuesday – Friday (21 July – 28 August) Make the holidays productive and interesting with making sessions for families at mima. The art trolley is stocked full of imaginative materials to feed creative young minds. Free, no booking required.
Life drawing Every Thursday, 5.45pm – 6.45pm
10 October - 7 February
The Office of Useful Art
Localism tells the story of art in Middlesbrough from 1829 to the present day. It takes a radical approach to exhibition making by inviting the public to help write the narrative through workshops that grow the show and build an encyclopaedic family tree of creativity on Teesside.
Arte Útil roughly translates as useful art and focuses on the applied dimension of art, stressing the beneficial outcomes of projects for their users. The archive of Arte Útil presents case studies that reintroduce the old idea of art not for its own sake, but as a tool or device for social change.
Localism is more than an exhibition and mima hopes it will join up people and places across the region to celebrate and debate Middlesbrough’s cultural history and its impact on the wider world. Topics include Christopher Dresser and Linthorpe Pottery, bridge building, the remarkable Boosbeck Industries in the 1930s and the existence of mima itself. In a thoroughly internationalised
This is not an exhibition but a working space open to the public, where mima invites contributions to the archive, subscription to the membership of the Arte Útil association and proposals for projects that it can address. You are invited to participate in this working space by making, creating and sharing your ideas of what useful art means to you.
An exciting class for artists of all abilities in a friendly, relaxed and social atmosphere. This session covers a mixture of long and short poses observing a clothed model with materials and advice provided. £3.50.
Behind the scenes art tour Last Friday of every month An in depth and close up walk through our collections of fine art, jewellery and ceramics; featuring some of the world’s most celebrated artists as well as some lesser known gems. Free, booking required. Go to visitmima.com for details.
Middlesbrough Today | 7
e t a r b e l Ce
r e m Sum
Summer fashion Whether you’re heading to sunnier climes on holiday, having a staycation or going to a fancy event, Hillstreet has everything you need to look super stylish this summer. H! by Henry Holland Daisy Print Shorts Debenhams £28 | Debut Floral Border Dress Debenhams £65 | Tropical Print Harem Trousers Quiz £19.99
at Hillstreet Twisted Soul Heritage Dark Red Polo Shirt Blue Inc. £14.99 | Red Herring Shirt Debenhams £25 | North Coast T-shirt M&S £15
Whether you’re having a staycation or jetting off on a last minute trip abroad, Hillstreet’s retailers have it all! From beach beauty and holiday fashions to waterproofs for those British summer showers, stay on trend this season with Hillstreet. Stay tuned to our website and Facebook page for upcoming summer events and promotions.
No matter what your fitness regime is, M&S’s range of activewear will encourage you to hit the gym this summer to tone up whilst staying bang on trend.
Summer swimwear Whether you want to look sleek by the pool or just dip your toes in the sea, Hillstreet has a vibrant swimwear solution for everyone!
Floral Control Swimsuit Primark £10 | Red Herring Bikini Debenhams £32 | M&S Collection swimsuit M&S £29.50 Blue Harbour Quick Dry Block Checked Shorts M&S £22.50 | Blue Harbour Quick Dry Leaf Print Swim Shorts M&S £17.50 | Stripy Swim Shorts Debenhams £25
Add some sparkle Accessorise your new summer wardrobe with jewellery from Pandora to really stand out from the crowd.
www.hillstreetshopping.co.uk #LoveHillstreet /Hillstreetshopping
No matter where you’re heading this August, Hillstreet has summer all wrapped up. From laid-back trousers and shorts for those long hot evenings, to beautiful beachwear and jewellery to accessorise, you can stay on trend with these must-have pieces and celebrate the sun with Hillstreet’s excellent range of retailers.
Get fit for summer
Blue Chip Parking
Get a ‘blue chip’ when entering the car park and win free all day parking. One winner per day. Each daily winner is also entered into a prize draw to win £100.
SUMMER AT HILLSTREET SHOPPING CENTRE
M&S Collection Cropped Running Leggings M&S £22.50 | M&S Collection Shard Print Vest M&S £19.50 | M&S Collection High Impact Sports Bra M&S £19.50
Hillstreet is Middlesbrough’s most popular retail destination, anchored by Marks & Spencer, Primark and Debenhams. The centre operates at the heart of the local community. To find out more about Hillstreet, please visit the website www.hillstreetshopping.co.uk.
@Hillstreetshop Feather Ring Pandora £85 | Rose Bracelet with Charms Pandora £65 for bracelet and from £30 for charms Bow Studs Pandora £60
Middlesbrough Today | 9
T h e W h i t e R oom S K I N
&
L A S E R
C L I N I C
Wo rd l e a d i n g a w a rd w i n n i n g t e c h n o l o g y‌ O u r t re a t m e n t s a re s c i e n t i f i c a l l y p ro v e n ; a n d a l l s t a ff a re t h o ro u g h l y t r a i n e d i n a l l o f t h e p ro c e s s e s w e e m p l o y. C h ro m o g e n e x h a v e b e e n a t t h e f o re f ro n t o f l a s e r a n d light based technology for over 20 years. Established in 1986 the company has g ro w n f ro m a m a n u f a c t u r i n g a n d re p a i r service to becoming a global company with a wealth of experience in Clinical R e s e a rc h & Tr a i n i n g , C u s t o m e r S u p p o r t & S e r v i c e , M a n u f a c t u r i n g & R e s e a rc h .
Drop 1-2 es dress siz ks in 4 wee
The White Room, Thomas Watson House, 7-9 Northumberland Street, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 7HJ tel: 01325 461230 email: hello@white-room.co.uk
www.white-room.co.uk
Guaranteed to lose inches immed iately!
Home Builders Federation Customer Survey
STOP
WAITING
Stainsby Hall Park | Middlesbrough | TS5 8EH
START
BUYING
You could be in a new home this summer with PART EXCHANGE.
PART EXCHANGE WE’LL BUY YOURS SO YOU CAN BUY OURS • A good offer for your old home based on independent valuations • Stay in your existing home until your new house is ready • No estate agent fees • Stress free move
Stainsby Hall Park is an exciting new development of stylish three and four bedroom family homes ideally located for Middlesbrough town centre and within easy reach of glorious surrounding countryside.
3 & 4 bedroom homes available from only
£186,995 to £296,995
Call: 01642 590 325 Click: www.bellway.co.uk Visit: Friday - Sunday 11am - 5.30pm, Monday 12pm - 5.30pm, Thursday 11am - 8pm.
Stainsby Hall provides a wide selection of family homes With a choice of twelve different house styles Bellway’s latest development at Stainsby Hall has been designed to respond to buyers at all ends of the housing market with prices starting from just £186,995. “Whether you are a first time buyer or more mature buyer, we are confident that we have a house style here that will fit your needs,” said Debbie Hall, Bellway’s sales advisor.
The separate dining room features French doors to the rear garden, there is also a downstairs WC and integral single garage.
Visitors to the development which is south of Middlesbrough just off the A174 can view two new show homes.
The first floor provides three bedrooms and a family bathroom, the master bedroom benefitting from ensuite facilities.
Bellway’s three bedroom Brampton show home offers 962 sq. ft. of living space. The ground floor provides a lobby entrance area that opens up into a spacious living room that leads to a kitchen which benefits from a separate utility room.
The Brentwood show home provides 1353 sq. ft. of living space, the ground floor comprises an entrance hall that leads to a living room and a large kitchen dining area with adjoining family space with French doors leading to the
rear garden. There is also a downstairs WC and integral single garage. The first floor provides 4 good size bedrooms and a family bathroom with the master bedroom and bedroom 1 including ensuite facilities, ideal if you have guests staying. Two smaller bedrooms ideal for children reflect the latest in themed design. Stainsby Hall Park provides quick and easy access to Middlesbrough town centre and is also in reach of some beautiful countryside walks, ideal for family outings. Locally there are several Primary Schools and for older children The King’s Academy is just 5 minutes away. Additionally, Teesside High School and Yarm School are within 15 minutes of the development. Bellway has a range of offers available to help buyers move including their Express Mover Service which enables a buyer to take advantage of a free-ofcharge service where Bellway agree a price for your old home , engage an estate agent on your behalf to achieve a quick sale leaving you free to concentrate on planning
your new home. The Help to Buy Scheme, enables a buyer to put down a minimum deposit of 5 percent and benefit from a 20 percent interest free five year equity loan from the Government meaning that only a 75 percent mortgage is required thereby lowering monthly mortgage repayments during the first five years of ownership. For commuters, Stainsby Hall Park is well connected with quick access to both the A19 and the A1(M). By rail, Middlesbrough train station is just over ten minutes away, with regular services to Whitby, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and Sunderland. The Hemlington Lake and Recreation Centre is also less than five minutes away and offers nearly 40 acres of parkland to explore.
For more information, visit www.bellway.co.uk or call the sales centre Tel: 01642 590 325 Prices correct at time of going to press. Specification on site may differ. Pictures for illustration purposes only.
*Bellway reserve the right to refuse a part exchange, terms & conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk
SUMMER ON A SHOESTRING The school holidays can be costly, with families often spending hundreds of pounds in an effort to keep youngsters entertained.
Family fun
Cucumber Sandwich - Primula Cheese
Dress £6, shoes £2 both
Primark
This year we want our readers to be able to spend time, not money, and have compiled this handy guide to enjoying summer on a shoestring…
Dress for Less
d game with a boar
Shop around and it’s easy to find good quality clothing at affordable prices. We found these amazing outfits in Primark for around £8 each and there are plenty of other bargains hiding on the high street.
Hang on to any old pieces of wool, paper and haberdashery you have lying around, such as buttons and bottle tops, as these could serve as decorations and come in handy for other rainy day arts and crafts too.
Remember to keep an eye out for summer sales and discount vouchers, particularly towards the end of the season when you can stock up on next year’s essentials at heavily reduced rates.
If you and the kids have got time to put your feet up then why not pop down to the library first? It’s free to join and all manner of books are waiting to be borrowed - perfect for relaxing in the garden or curling up indoors if the weather lets you down.
If, however, you want to do away with spending all together, then why not arrange a swap shop with family or friends. You can each bring items that your children no longer wear, or have outgrown, and trade them in for something more suitable. You could also try customising existing clothing and adding low-cost embellishments such as studs and sequins to give them a new lease of life. For those who are particularly crafty then a sewing kit could mean you’re well on your way to creating outfits of your own. Just type making your own clothes into an internet search engine and you’ll find hundreds of free, downloadable patterns, as well as top tips for upcycling and re-using old clothing, including transforming a man’s T-Shirt into a young boy’s shorts and creating a toddler’s play dress from an old pillowcase.
Stay Home and Save Spending time at home can be cost effective but it’s easy for boredom to creep in too. Try to keep a collection of board games close at hand – Monopoly and Scrabble are still top sellers - and don’t be afraid to go oldschool with prop free alternatives like hide and seek.
14 | Middlesbrough Today
Next time you go shopping ask if there are any empty boxes you can have for free. Challenge your children to showcase their creativity by turning these blank cardboard canvases into a house, rocket or even a fort.
For those of you who already have a tent, or a bit of spare cash to buy one, then camping in the garden can be a real adventure, even if it’s just a few yards from your own back door.
Top £1 .3
0, short
s £5, sh
mark
Feast Minus The Fortune
Explore Without Expense
According to figures recently released by Primula, more than 40 per cent of adults over 25 go on a picnic every year, with two thirds of picnickers enjoying it with their family.
If you do feel like getting out and about over the next few months then there are plenty of places you can visit for free.
If you and your brood are hitting the road this summer, then following this trend could help keep costs low wherever you go.
Why not go hiking in the Cleveland Hills or cycling across the North York Moors? You can find easy to follow routes online or in the local tourist information centres and there are lots of stunning views to enjoy along the way.
It can be as simple as a few sandwiches, some fruit and a drink to wash it down and you’ve got a delicious, cost-effective meal to enjoy on the go – just remember to pack a blanket to sit on and a cool bag to keep everything fresh.
If the countryside isn’t your thing then how about a day by the coast? Both Seaton Carew and Saltburn-by-the-Sea are less than an hour’s drive away and offer the ideal opportunity to practice your sandcastle building skills. Closer to home you can spend the day in South Park, go back to the past at Piercebridge Roman Fort, explore the Darlington Heritage Trail or check out our handy what’s on guide (page 30) for more inspiration.
oes £2 - all Pri
It’s also worth keeping an eye out for special deals in supermarkets. Bulk buying things like buns and burgers can be more cost effective and ensures you have things on hand for the barbecue whenever the sun decides to shine. When you do decide to dine out, then a little careful planning can go a long way. Many eateries have special offers at certain times of the day, such as reduced rates, happy hours or buy one get one free, and it’s often worth eating early if you can.
Keep in mind, though, that some attractions won’t allow you to bring your own refreshments, so it’s worth checking before you set off. If you’re planning a party or social gathering, then consider making it a bring your own (BYO) event. Many guests are more than willing to contribute a potato salad to a barbecue or a bottle of fizz to a birthday bash - just remember to make that clear on the invitation so that no-one inadvertently turns up empty handed.
Image: Tracey Phillips
Middlesbrough Today | 15
SEA GLASS WANTED WHAT IS sea glass?
The term sea glass refers to pieces of glass which have been naturally tumbled and processed by the motion of the sea combined with exposure to salt water. Genuine sea glass can take decades to acquire its distinctly smooth frosted look which also gives rise to the term ‘sea diamonds’. Sea glass can be found on virtually any beach in the world but the sea glass found on the beaches of the East Durham Coastline, particularly Seaham and those surrounding it, reveals a history of glass production unique to the area. Between 1853 and 1921 Seaham was home to Europe’s largest glass works which supplied millions of hand blown bottles throughout the UK and Europe. Such a huge operation not only provided employment to hundreds of local people but also resulted in a massive amount of waste glass at the end of each working day. This waste glass, melted down left overs from the day’s production run, was routinely thrown over the cliffs and into the sea to eventually become, over 100 years later, some of the world’s most colourful and fascinating sea glass. ‘End of day’ sea glass often shows a swirling mix of colours, the result of various colours of waste glass being melted together and thrown into the ocean to be processed by the power of the sea. Although not all sea glass to be found on Seaham’s beaches is ‘end of day’ sea glass, those pieces that are can be dated to be up to 160 years old.
WHY ARE WE COLLECTING IT?
We’re currently collecting pieces of local sea glass to form part of an ambitious installation at this year’s Lumiere in Durham. We would like your help to collect sea glass from the East Durham Coastline to realise a light installation which celebrates the industrial heritage of the area and champions the communities at its heart. You might already have a stash of sea glass at home donations of all sizes, shapes and colours are welcome! A series of dates and times where you can take part in a collection at either Seaham or Easington are available online, for more detail go to www.lumiere-festival.com/story/sea-glass-wanted/ For donations and to take part in group collections, email lux4trip@hotmail.com commissioned by
THE GARDENS AT WYNYARD HALL A garden that looks set to become one of the region’s leading tourist attractions is set to open to the public. We visited The Walled Garden at Wynyard Hall to find out what’s in store…. When work began on the Walled Garden at Wynyard Hall almost a year ago, it was, in effect, a secret garden, having lain closed for decades. However, now, after years of planning and months of hard work, the Walled Garden at Wynyard Hall – the second phase of an ambitious The Gardens project – is finished and ready to open its doors to the public. The man in charge of converting Sir John’s dream into reality is multi RHS award-winning landscape architect Alistair Baldwin. And, along with rose expert Michael Marriott, from David Austin Roses and the fourstrong team of gardeners at Wynyard Hall, he has echoed the garden’s past while ensuring its appeal will last throughout the 21st century and beyond. Perhaps the first impression visitors will get will be of colour; a dazzling array of roses planted in great
swathes, in shades ranging from the softest whites to the deepest crimsons. Then, when they enter the garden and begin to explore, they will be able to see each rose, each plant and shrub from a new angle, thanks to a series of gently sloping – and wholly accessible pathways.
The visitor centre At the gateway to The Gardens is a visitor centre, showcasing the finest goods and produce the region has to offer. Open daily from 10am till 5pm, it is a great venue in which to meet up with friends or enjoy some precious ‘me’ time, whether or not you choose to visit the gardens. Everyone is welcome and there is no admission charge. Tickets for the gardens can be purchased here and male, female, disabled and baby changing toilets are available.
The café At the heart of the visitor centre, the café is the ideal place in which to enjoy a delicious selection of homemade dishes and snacks while enjoying superb views of The Gardens. Choose from a hot dish of the day, hot and cold sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries with a range of hot and cold beverages, all prepared and cooked by Wynyard Hall’s in-house chefs using locallysourced ingredients where possible. The café is open throughout the day and is fully licensed, so visitors can enjoy a chilled glass of wine or beer with lunch.
The farm shop The visitor centre is also home to a farm shop, selling everything from newly laid
farm eggs and freshly baked bread to delicious pasta sauces, pâtés and relishes. It really is a food lover’s paradise – but that’s not all…. It will also be stocked with a range of gifts, books and stationary, so you can take home a lasting reminder of your visit or choose a special treat for a friend.
Plant sales A fantastic range of plants will be on sale, including many of the varieties of rose on show in the garden, supplied by UK rose expert, David Austin. There will also be an extensive selection of seasonal plants and flowers on sale throughout the year. From bedding plants to Christmas trees there will be something to suit every garden, big or small. Middlesbrough Today | 17
Wedding Packages 2016 REGISTER OFFICE RELOCATES FOLLOWING RESTORATION PROJECT Middlesbrough’s Register Office has now relocated to the Town Hall following a stunning Victorian restoration project.
Office comprises what was originally the police station and rooms to serve the adjacent courtroom.
The town’s previous self-contained Register Office – on Elm Street between the Civic Centre and Combined Court – is set for closure as part of the £15m of cuts set out in the Council’s 2014/15 budget.
Among the original features that have been restored include a grand cantilevered staircase, terrazzo flooring previously hidden under carpet, wood panelling that had been covered, a ceiling rose and window surrounds.
But despite the move being instigated due to the need to cut costs, the replacement facility has been described as “an improvement beyond even our wildest expectations” by Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd. Mr Budd has today praised Council staff who have made the project a labour of love in returning Town Hall office space to its original Victorian splendour and creating a bright and enticing ceremonial venue. A Grade II* listed building, Middlesbrough Town Hall was formally opened in January 1889 and the part that is now the Register
Another highlight is a grand fireplace recovered from St Luke’s Hospital prior to its demolition which bears the town motto Erimus and has found a new home in the facility’s main wedding room – the Erimus Room. “The refurbishment work is absolutely breathtaking and is a testament to the passion for the project shown by all those staff who have been involved,” said Mr Budd. “Due to the cuts imposed on towns like Middlesbrough in recent years we as a Council have had to make a lot of difficult decisions and closing the old Register Office which holds so many happy memories
for landmark moments in all our lives was certainly not easy. “In making that decision we did believe we could actually create a larger and more attractive wedding space that would be more desirable as a venue – but what has been achieved is an improvement beyond all expectations.” The venue boasts two ceremonial rooms, the Erimus Room and Victoria Room pictured above. To enquire about a ceremony contact the register office on 01642 729004. www.middlesbrough.gov.uk Follow Middlesbrough Council on Twitter: @MbroCouncil Middlesbrough Today | 19
WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W
HOLIDAY INN WASHINGTON Between historic Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle, the Holiday Inn Washington UK hotel is ideally located in Tyne and Wear, just off the A1M junction 64. This long-established hotel is well known for its friendly staff and warm welcome. With plenty of free parking, the hotel has an established restaurant Traders, and a contemporary lounge and bar area, serving drinks and light snacks. There are 136 fully air conditioned bedrooms at this hotel in Washington, including family and accessible rooms. Ideally placed for enjoying the many tourist attractions the area has to offer. So whether you fancy a day in Historic Durham, a trip to the coastal areas of South Shields, a day back in time visiting the award winning Beamish Museum, a day of retail therapy shopping at the famous MetroCentre or taking in the history and culture, not to mention the amazing restaurants, bars and shops that the city of Newcastle has to offer.
THE COMPETITION Win an overnight stay for 2 persons in a luxurious double bedroom, fully inclusive of bed, breakfast, dinner in Traders Restaurant and 2 adult tickets to visit the award winning Beamish Museum. Answer this question for a chance to win: What is the name of the hotel’s restaurant? Closing date for competitions is 14 September. See foot of page 21 for entry details
READERSHIP OFFER If you would like to book this Beamish package direct with the hotel, then the Holiday Inn Washington are pleased to extend a 10% discount to Middlesbrough Today Readers. Simply call the Reservations team at the hotel and quote MT15
Holiday Inn, Washington Emerson, Washington NE37 1LB 0191 4189400
WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT THE KING’S HEAD INN We’ve teamed up with the new King’s Head Inn in Newton under Roseberry to offer a fantastic overnight stay including a three course dinner for two people. On the edge of the North York Moors National Park in Newton-underRoseberry, the newly refurbished AA three-star gold King’s Head Inn is tucked beneath distinctive Roseberry Topping. The King’s Head Inn is within easy reach of Yorkshire’s seaside gems Staithes, Whitby and Scarborough, this welcoming country pub and is just the place to make yourself at home while exploring the picturesque area around. This fantastic prize includes a hearty cooked Yorkshire breakfast to set you up for the day ahead, as well as a delicious three-course evening meal in the King’s Head Inn’s cosy dining area. And even if you are not the lucky winner, you can enjoy a delightful bed and breakfast stay at The King’s Head
Inn from just £40 per person, per night (based on two people sharing a double or twin room). To book, call 01642 722 318 www.kingsheadinn.co.uk Answer this question for a chance to win: Where is the King’s Head Inn located? Closing date for competitions is 14 September See foot of this page for entry details
reservations@hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk 20 | Middlesbrough Today
ENTER TO WIN
Send your answers, along with your name, email, address and telephone number to: Middlesbrough Today Magazine, 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, DL5 6LH
Middlesbrough Today | 21
At The Gables Care Home you’re in caring hands Middlesbrough Theatre 01642 81 51 81 middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk
Middlesbrough Town Hall 01642 729 729
WORLD DANCE GALA | 13 AUG “DOS PLUMAS AL VIENTO”
SIMON & GARFUNKEL THROUGH THE YEAR | 7 SEP | 7.30PM
Billingham Festival of World Dance 2015 is proud to bring to you the lineup of outstanding dance companies from across the globe. Let World Gala Night take you on a captivating dance journey around the World. Tickets from £14
KINGDOM | 14 – 15 AUG Presented by Star Academy at One Step Ahead. A journey to find the most excellent Kingdom using the art of dance. Tickets from £8
THE DRIFTERS | 16 SEP Presented by PMG and Treadwell. Following on from the success of their recent tours, the current line up brings you the Rebranded Tour 2015 defining the evolution of the phenomenal story of the Drifters through its music from the past to the present. Tickets £26/Concessions £25
JACKSON – LIVE IN CONCERT 25 SEP
middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk
Following a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and a four-star review from Broadway Baby, Bookends are back on tour with their powerful live performance and multimedia show, taking a chronological journey through the friendship and career of Simon and Garfunkel. Tickets £12.50
SNAKE DAVIS | 24 SEP | 7.30PM BRILLIANT saxophonist Snake Davis makes a triumphant return to Middlesbrough Town Hall Crypt with a special show celebrating some of the very best sax solos. Tickets £12.50
SUMMER DAYS OUT PING! MIDDLESBROUGH Ping has bounced back to Middlesbrough this summer bigger and brighter than ever before and will be bouncing around until 31 of August. With bats and balls supplied. And if you walk from table to table you’ll discover more of Middlesbrough on route.
Presented by Sweeney Entertainments
Join in for free!
Starring Ben and his incredible Band & Dancers Jackson Live in Concert features all-live vocals and superb musicians and dancers, fabulous costumes, and of course all the signature dance moves associated so fondly with the undisputed King of Pop. Tickets from £15
To find your nearest table visit pingmiddlesbrough.co.uk
CLEVELAND CONCERT BAND 6 SEP | 2.30PM TO 4PM Join us free at the bandstand at Saltburn by the Sea.Young and old alike will enjoy singing along to Cleveland Concert Band at their ever-popular family concerts.
IN THE WILD ROCKPOOL RUMMAGE ON REDCAR BEACH | 13 AUG | 10AM - 12PM If you can’t tell your barnacles from your blennies, come along free and take a closer look at the creatures that live between the tides. For more information contact Vicky Rae T: 01642 454953 E: Vicky.rae@inca.uk.com
RSPB SALTHOLME GUIDED WALK 16 AUG | 12.30PM
The Gables is located in Middlesbrough and offers great transport links. Providing general nursing care and dementia nursing care care in a friendly and homely environment. The home also provides a caring unit dedicated to the nursing needs of people with dementia. Offering 64 en-suite single rooms, all equipped with a nurse call system for resident safety, The Gables has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Residents are encouraged to bring their own personal belongings to help to furnish their room, helping them feel more at home. The dining room and communal areas offer the perfect place for residents to meet with friends and family or simply enjoy one of the many activities provided through an onsite activities coordinator. We also offer; • Short term stay and long term stay. • A wide variety of appetising and nutritious food cooked daily on the premises. • Activities based on individual hobbies, interests and enjoyment. • Support out and about in the community as well as day trips out. • Regular visits from the local hairdresser, chiropodist, dentist, optician and GP
From the novice naturalist to the seasoned birder, all are welcome on this interesting and informative walk. The walk can take up to three hours, suitable outdoor clothing is essential. Mobility scooter is available on request. Participation and entry is free though parking charges apply. For more information call 01642 546625
NEST BOX BUILDING | 27 AUG 10AM – 2PM Create a cosy nest box to help our feathered friends with the Wings of the Tees at this free drop in family session at Preston Park Museum & Grounds. All children must be accompanied by adults - Nest box building sessions are free but standard admission fees to Preston Park Museum still apply. For more information contact Sara Barry T: 01287 636382 E: sbarry@teeswildlife.org
For more information visit: clevelandconcertband.co.uk
Middlesbrough Today | 22
You’re in caring hands
The Gables Care Home Highfield Road Middlesbrough TS4 2PE7 Tel: 01642 515 345 Email: gablesmanager@hillcare.net
Ladies E v ening THURSDAY
27 AUGUST
DJ SET FROM
VERNON KAY live after racing
www.sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk 01740 621925 | info@sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk *Terms & conditions apply. For full terms and conditions, race times and details of the event please visit our website. Booking restrictions and fees may apply. Sedgefield Racecourse encourages responsible gambling. www.gambleaware.co.uk. Please drink responsibly. www.drinkaware.co.uk