Issue 7 - Dec/Jan 2015
INSIDE fabulous competitions, local news, festive fashions & so much more...
local, relevant and entertaining WELCOME
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Welcome to the seventh issue of Middlesbrough Today and we’re sharing the festive fun in this December issue. Along with our usual mix of event listings and local news, there’s a chance for you to win a family weekend away, an overnight hotel stay for two, pamper packages and more. There’s also a mouthwatering guide to Christmas’ freshest food and drink, as well as some handy hints on how to dress to impress throughout the party season.
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CONTENTS 4
Stories from around the town
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MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL
Season’s greetings from all at Middlesbrough Today.
NEWS
Festive fun at the town hall
10 THE 12 TRENDS OF CHRISTMAS
Find out what to wear in the coming months
15 NEW THIS NOËL
Discover fresh food and drink for the festive season
19 COMPETITIONS
WINNERS MT 6
An overnight stay for two at Holiday Inn Washington goes to: B Millington of Aycliffe
23 WHAT’S ON
Up for grabs
Things to see and do this winter
An overnight stay for two at The King’s Head Inn goes to: K Smith of Darlington 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. PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING
SEASON’S GREETINGS
Riney Publishing also specialise in producing high quality magazines written by award winning journalists for Hotel & Bridal venues & Schools.
FROM THE SILVER SHOP
24 Post House Wynd, Darlington, DL3 7LP Tel: 01325 464175 The Silver Shop 4 page wrap around Darlington Today – a full copy of the magazine can be found inside
Full Service of Design, Print & Advertising sales is available.
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.
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LOCAL NEWS
SANDWICH BOSS TO STICK WITH BUYING LOCAL An innovative sandwich specialist will stick with its policy of dealing with local suppliers despite moving into a factory that will treble the size of the business. On A Roll Sandwich Company was the brainchild of expert chef James Stoddart back in 2007. Now, with almost seven million sandwiches rolling off the production line on an annual basis, the firm has now moved into its 35,000 sq ft unit close to its previous home. But despite the rapid growth of On A Roll, Managing Director James Stoddart
MEMORIAL UNVEILED TO A TRUE MIDDLESBROUGH HERO A memorial to a true Middlesbrough hero has been formally unveiled. The bronze statue of Company Sergeant Major Stan Hollis VC was officially dedicated near the town’s Cenotaph on Thursday November 26. The tribute to the legendary Green Howard was made possible thanks to a £150,000 fund-raising campaign by the Stanley Hollis VC Memorial Fund Committee led by retired businessman Brian Bage. Company Sergeant Major Hollis VC was born in Archibald Street, Middlesbrough in 1912, and became a steelworker and lorry driver before joining the famous regiment. 4 | Middlesbrough Today
James Stoddart, Managing Director at On A Roll Sandwich Company.
insists he will not alter his supply chain to the detriment of the local economy. As well as the excitement of moving into the new premises, the On A Roll team had further reason to celebrate earlier this month when it was recognised at the prestigious Made in the North East Awards ceremony. The firm won Food & Drink Manufacturer of the Year, at the awards which also recognised leaders in technology, export, innovation and apprenticeships/training.
He went on to become the only person to be awarded the Victoria Cross on D-Day, being recommended twice for his actions on June 6, 1944.
PIETASTIC NEWS THE UPEX LEGEND RETURNS TO TEESSIDE For pie-loving Teessiders, an old flame is about to make a muchanticipated reappearance. The comeback of the legendary Upex Pie has been creating a storm on social media and now the hungry hordes will finally get their fill. The famous stewed steak and gravy pies with soft pastry and were sold all over the town for almost 100 years, before the family business closed its last outlet in North Ormesby Road in 1998. The tasty delicacy looked to have been consigned to the history books until four years ago when entrepreneur Steve Davies and business partner Wayne Spriggs registered the Upex Pies brand name. Steve said: “Wayne’s great grandfather was the brother of the founder of Upex Pies, so we thought it was time to bring the brand back while people still have fond memories of them. “We were fortunate enough to get the help of one of the original bakers from the original Upex shop on North Ormesby road, who started in the 70s and worked through into the 80s. “Fortunately for us, the secret recipe and the method of making these special steak and gravy pies were lodged firmly in the baker’s memory.” The next step will be wholesaling to cafes, pubs, restaurants, chip shops and caterers, and there are even plans for a mail order service in 2016.
Six of the new recruits at Archers Law (left to right): Katy Moody; Lauren Mills; Dan Flounders; Angela Torrance; David Adams; Rachel List
BUSINESS IS BOOMING AT ARCHERS LAW A leading legal firm believes the Tees Valley economy is on the up after doubling the headcount of its business services team. Since the turn of the year, Archers Law has strengthened the team with nine additions taking it to 18. Including the private client team, the firm has a full headcount of 55. David Adams, Partner and Head of Business Client Services for Archers Law, said: “The recruitment we have carried out is reflective of both the success of the firm, and the success of the Tees Valley as a whole.
the business expands further then we would obviously look to expand the teams.” On boosting the legal experience in the business team, Lauren Mills has joined the employment team with a wealth of experience in the sector, while Dan Flounders is now a solicitor with the corporate team having completed his training and qualifying with Archers.
Former Boro star and BBC Tees expert summariser Neil Maddison at the Dry January launch at the Riverside
Angela Torrance, a Partner has moved from private client to business client, while Rachel List recently joined the commercial property team from another legal firm.
MADDO GIVING BOOZE THE BOOT FOR A DRY JANUARY
“We have strengthened our plans, and they all point towards growth. We always try to grow organically, so as
Five other recruits provide legal support to complete the team.
A Boro legend is giving booze the boot for a month – and he’s urging others to follow suit.
SMARTPHONE TECH USED TO BOOST TOWN CENTRE TRADING
The App collects panel members’ anonymous location data, and in exchange enables those taking part to earn points for rewards and prizes including cash via PayPal and gift cards for Costa Coffee, Marks & Spencer, Boots and Currys PC World.
Cutting edge technology is being used to help improve Middlesbrough town centre as a shopping and leisure destination.
Any data provided through the app will be in an aggregated and anonymous form so individual users can’t be identified. Participants can opt out at any time by simply uninstalling the app and they will never receive any marketing from any other companies.
Shoppers and regular visitors to Middlesbrough town centre are being invited to take part in a new consumer behaviour study using their smartphones to help improve Middlesbrough town centre as a shopping and leisure destination. Middlesbrough Council is working with market research experts Indestinate who have developed GeoTask to study the behaviour patterns of people as they walk around the town centre, visiting shops, cafes, offices and events. Anyone can join the GeoTask panel by downloading the free GeoTask Location Research App via the Android Play Store or iPhone App store. www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/geotask
To download the GeoTask app please visit www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/geotask
Neil ‘Maddo’ Maddison will be kicking the drink into touch as part of the annual Dry January health drive. Neil – now best known as BBC Tees’ Boro expert summariser alongside Ali Brownlee - is working with Middlesbrough Council’s Improving Public Health Service to raise the campaign’s profile. He said: “Many of us enjoy a drink, but like everything in life moderation is the key. “Dry January’s a great opportunity to take a break, relegate the booze to the subs’ bench and enjoy the health benefits. “I’m going to give it a go and I hope as many people as possible will join me.” Dry January - now in its fourth year challenges people to put the excesses of the festive period behind them and adopt a fresh, healthy start to the new year. Last year more than two million people cut down their drinking for January, and organisers are hoping to improve on that figure this year.
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topic in action and then progress their learning from there. “The class was so excited to visit The Institute and conduct experiments in their laboratories that they’ve been talking about it all week.” The children were separated into groups and taken to different laboratory areas in the Institute to participate in experiments involving water flow.
MPI LOOKS ON THE SUNNYSIDE Teesside-based The Materials Processing Institute took science out of the classroom when it invited classes from Sunnyside Academy for a visit. The Research and Development specialist, which will be celebrating its 70th birthday this year, invited the children to aid with their topics ‘flow’ and ‘mighty metals’. The classes took part in live experiments, using a selection of the Institute’s stateof-the-art equipment to record results and answer questions. Kirsty Hodgson, class teacher of Year Four, said: “With every topic we aim to give the children a ‘wow’ experience. “This gives them the chance to see the
Colin Atkinson, Manager of Energy, Environment and Minerals at the Materials Processing Institute, said: “It’s great to be welcoming the children into The Institute to educate them and also encourage that passion in science. “They’ve been brilliantly behaved and taken a real interest in the experiments we’ve provided. We hope they visit again.” Sunnyside Academy, Coulby Newham, is the first school to visit The Institute since MPI moved into independent ownership after splitting from Tata Steel last year. Colin added: “As an Institute based in the North East we are passionate about giving back to the region and supporting with the school curriculum wherever possible. “We hope in time we will be able to work alongside more schools drawing on our years of expertise to educate the next batch of young scientists.”
SORCERER’S APPRENTICE SET TO ENCHANT TOWN HALL AUDIENCE Festive family audiences have a treat in store when The Sorcerer’s Apprentice by Blunderbus Theatre Company comes to Middlesbrough Town Hall on Wednesday, December 23 and Thursday, December 24. Charlie Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream - he wants to be a world-class magician. So, he saves up his pocket money to buy The Big Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians. Then he sets off to Mr Zacoor’s Toy Shop to buy his spellbook. But Mr Zacoor is no ordinary shopkeeper - he’s a real life Sorcerer…and he has a very special job for Charlie. This delightful new show comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and storytelling. There’s also an enchanting toy shop setting filled with all sorts of magical surprises!
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Prof Brian Cox with staff and pupils of Middlesbrough College
PROFESSOR BRIAN COX UNVEILS NEW STEM SKILLS CENTRE Professor Brian Cox OBE visited Teesside to open the new £20m STEM skills training centre at Middlesbrough College. He said the centre – which delivers world class skills training in science, technology, engineering and maths - is “an incredibly impressive place”. He added: “It’s ground-breaking - there’s a real understanding here of what industry needs and the new centre is delivering the kind of training that provides real experience. “Everybody will benefit, and it’s absolutely obvious that centres of this kind are needed across the country. “It’s an act of genius – before you can train a skilled workforce you have to ask what it is industry wants and that’s exactly what has happened here. “It has genuinely surpassed my expectations, it should be used as a blueprint and I’ll be lobbying very hard for places like this to be supported across the country.” Zoe Lewis, principal and chief executive, said: “Five years ago Middlesbrough College had fewer than 100 apprentices, this year we will train more than 1,000 across a wide range of disciplines.
Little people aged three to seven will love this funny, heart-warming tale but big people will have lots of fun, too. The perfect treat for Christmas! The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is suitable for children aged three to seven and their families, with performances at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Wednesday, December 23 at 11.30am and 2.30pm and Thursday, December 24 at 10am and noon. Tickets are £7 (adults), £6 (children) with family tickets available at £22. To book or for further information, call Middlesbrough Town Hall Box Office on 01642 729 729 or book online at www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk
“We and our partners firmly believe that STEM education and training has the potential to transform this region’s economic competitiveness.” Thousands of apprentices will train there, as well as those already working in industry and who want to learn the latest skills and techniques. Free courses are being offered for those directly affected by the closure of SSI in Redcar. Within the centre are three sections of industrial facilities – Process Operations and Maintenance, an Advanced Manufacturing Centre, and Logistics and Warehousing. The centre also houses a DCS control room which monitors and operates all the processes, including a fully functional control system overlooking the process hall with operator workstations.
OUR EARLY YEARS MAKE SUCH A DIFFERENCE TO THE PERSON WE GROW UP TO BE At Red House School we keep the whole journey in mind. Our experience shows that a well-rounded education, filled with co-curricular activities, leads to so much more than academic success. Children discover the confidence to grasp the opportunities that life will present beyond the classroom. Of course academic success matters and our record backs that up; we have been ranked the Number 1 CoEducational Independent School in England without a sixth form, for the last two years, in the Sunday Times Parent Power League Tables, but at Red House we believe that exam results are not the sole indicator of a child’s capabilities. That is why we create a positive and supportive environment where children are nurtured to achieve their full potential, not only academically, but in all aspects of
school life. Indeed, we know that academic improvement often stems from the self-belief found in sport, music, theatre or travel. Our school ethos is built around giving children a complete education: physical, intellectual and emotional development gained from a wide range of experiences within a broad and balanced curriculum. Teachers are given the time to care for every child so that their individual talents emerge and develop. By retaining smaller classes, children feel more secure about contributing. Red House School has a unique family atmosphere. We encourage parents to become involved in their child’s education, weaving a close-knit community among teachers, children and parents, so that the best results are achieved.
The best way to experience life at Red House is to visit the school. Tours are available throughout the year. Appointments can be made by contacting Mrs Claire Bellerby, Head of Admissions on 01642 558119 or email claire.bellerby@redhouseschool.co.uk.
redhouseschool.co.uk
GROW AND LEARN WITH US... Our school offers so much more than academic success. We create a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to achieve their full potential across a wide range of activities. At Red House, children find confidence for life beyond the classroom. COME ED T R & VISI SCHOOL E S HOU
E ILABL S AVA TO U R U G H O U T T H RO Y E A R THE INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 3-16 The Old Vicarage & 36 The Green | Norton | Stockton-on-Tees | TS20 1DX T: 01642 553370 | E: claire.bellerby@redhouseschool.co.uk
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FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL There is a feast of festive entertainment for all the family this December at Middlesbrough Town Hall. Beyond The Barricade (Friday, December 4) has delighted audiences throughout the UK and mainland Europe for more than a decade, with its exciting concert portrayal of the greatest songs in musical theatre. Recreating original West End and Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, this cast of past principal performers from Les Misérables, present a blockbusting two-hour show that is now established as the nation’s favourite musical theatre concert. For those people not lucky enough to get tickets to see two of the biggest names in comedy Frankie Boyle (Thursday, December 3) and Sarah Millican (December 9 -11) the Big Mouth Comedy Club hosts two Christmas Specials on Saturdays December 5 and 12 featuring comedy from the likes of Matt Reed, Geoff Norcott, Martin Mor, Phil Ellis, Mark Nelson and Jeff Innocent – but be quick as these are sure to sell out quickly too. On Monday, December 7 the fantastic MTH Community Choir invites people along to a festive evening of seasonal
songs and carols. All are welcome to take part in a fun event covering musical genres from gospel and folk to classical, traditional and the not so well known. On Sunday, December 13, the Tees Valley Music Service Christmas Concert will see the Tees Valley Youth Choir and Tees Valley Youth Orchestra joined by a host of choirs from Teesside secondary schools for a programme of festive music including carols for everyone to join in with. The Town Hall once again hosts two fantastic party nights to get you in the mood for Christmas on Thursday, December 17 (Big Sigh and the Yawns) and Friday, December 18 (Grooveline). Tickets are £20 and include a two course hot buffet. Call the Box Office on 01642 729 729 for further information and bookings. All-time Teesside Disco legend Brutus Gold will be transforming the main auditorium into Funky Town on Saturday, December 19 as his Love Train steams into town for a sold out show.
The Town Hall plays host to the Groovy Babies Christmas Special on Saturday, December 19 from 2pm to 4pm. Suitable for youngsters aged five and under, and their parents/guardians, Groovy Babies is a unique experience guaranteed to bring out the disco dancer inside parents and kids alike. On the afternoon of Sunday, December 20 the Cleveland Philharmonic Choir and the Fishburn Band return to the Town Hall for the popular Family Christmas Carol Concert. With seasonal music from a superb brass band, Christmas songs from the choir and well-known carols for everyone, this concert is a delightful celebration for all the family. There is a guaranteed treat in store on Wednesday, December 23 and Thursday, December 24 for three to seven-yearolds and their families when Town Hall favourites Blunderbus Theatre Company present the perfect treat for Christmas The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a spellbinding new show that comes to life with a magical blend of music, puppetry and high-energy storytelling.
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THE 12 TRENDS OF CHRISTMAS
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Forget leaping lords and milking maids, we’re giving you the gift of festive fashion with these 12 top tips… Rudolph’s nose has nothing on me. Red has long been a seasonal staple and Christmas 2015 is no exception. Opt to follow Santa’s lead by going bright and bold or stay merrily muted with a touch of burgundy – just make sure you glow! An LBD is for life, not just for Christmas. One thing that never goes out of style is a little black dress. Invest in a good one now and you’ll be wearing it for work dos, weddings, date nights and more, well into the New Year and even beyond.
Is it a top? Is it a trouser? No it’s a … jumpsuit?! Once reserved for those jumping out of planes, this all in one outfit has become hot stuff on the high street. Think of it as a onesie you can wear outside and dress it up or down depending on the occasion. Get a-head of the game Both practical and pretty, hats can make a style statement as well as keeping you warm. Go for a design that compliments your coat or one that clashes to put you head and shoulders above the crowd.
Novelty Noel (and we don’t mean Edmonds). What the bearded fella once did for house parties, snowmen and slogans are now doing for festive fashion. Whether you love them or loathe them you can’t escape the Christmas jumper, so why not just embrace the trend? It will give your workmates a laugh if nothing else.
50 Shades of you know what. It’s cool, classic and goes with almost anything (not unlike a billionaire businessman). So, whether it’s gunmetal, slate or shimmering silver, add a glimpse of grey to your winter wardrobe and you’ll always have something to wear (cable ties optional).
Suits you sir. Jeans and a shirt are all good and well, but this time of year things can get a little more formal. If you’re feeling particularly dapper then why not don a full three piece (suit, not sofa) or try adding a novelty tie to tone down your tailoring.
‘Jack-It’ Up Unless you’re spending Christmas in the Caribbean, chances are you’ll need a jacket. One proving particularly popular this season is luxurious leather – but feel free to opt for a similar alternative to save on costs (and those cows).
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Decorate more than just the tree. After decking the halls be sure to give yourself a little seasonal sparkle. Swap crackers for cufflinks, baubles for bags and turn on the lights with glittering jewellery or a wow-them watch. Go big on boots. When it comes to festive footwear, more is most definitely more. Swap your loafers and strappy sandals for solid soles and knee highs and give court shoes and trainers the Christmas ‘boot’ (get it!). Get ‘dressed in the dark’ (on purpose). Like a seasonal sale offering three for two, you’ll get more bang for your buck when you mix and match your wardrobe. Pair clashing prints and fighting fabrics and you’ll no longer have to worry about what goes with what. It’s all about the wrapping. Like a present waiting to be unwrapped, looking good this Christmas depends just as much on what’s hiding underneath. It can be sexy and sheer or seasonal and fun but underwear should not be overlooked – after all it’s too cold to go commando.
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1 BHS - £25 2 Burton - Jacket £85 Jumper £25 Trousers £20 3 Evans - £45 4 Freedom at Topshop - £17.50
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5 House of Fraser - Dickins & Jones Snowman jumper - £65 6 New Look - Teen black faux fur collar biker jacket £24.99
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7 Next - Reindeer Hat £6 Santa Sleep Suit - part of set - £12 8 Primark - £6 9 Shoe Zone - £24.99 10 TK Maxx - £12.99 11 Tu at Sainsbury’s £5 12 Wallis £45 9
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Home Builders Federation Customer Survey
STAINSBY HALL PARK I MIDDLESBROUGH I TS5 8EH
Be quick... don’t miss out on this fantastic deal on our home of the month. The Wedmore - 4 bedroom detached family home. 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.
THE WEDMORE READY TO MOVE INTO. 3 & 4 bedroom homes available from only £186,995
Reserve before Christmas and receive FREE*: • CARPETS • APPLIANCES • TURF
ONLY £295,995
Call: 01642 590 325 Click: www.bellway.co.uk Visit: Friday to Monday 10.30am - 5.00pm, Tuesday and Wednesday closed, Thursday 10.30am - 7.00pm. *Available on selected plots reserved by 25/12/2015 only. Prices correct at time of going to press. Specification on site may differ. Pictures for illustration purposes only.
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 showhomes.
The first floor provides three bedrooms and a family bathroom, the master bedroom benefitting from ensuite facilities.
Bellway’s three bedroom Brampton showhome 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 showhome 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
WIN A GREETING FROM SANTA We’ve teamed up with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, (www.UKPolarExpressRide.com) to offer one lucky family a special message from Santa Claus. The man himself will take time out on board the train, which runs the Weardale Railway in the lead up to Christmas, to record your personalised greeting. It’s ideal as a memento for children, grandchildren or other young relatives and can be cherished for years to come.
For your chance to win simply answer the following question: What colour is Rudolph’s nose? Send your answer, along with your name and contact details to the address on page 21 before December 11. More information about THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Weardale Railway is available at www.UKPolarExpressRide.com, where you can also buy tickets priced from £18 for children and £22 for adults.
Have you thought about becoming a foster carer? Children and young people in foster care are often at a turning point in their lives. Whether it is for a few weeks, a period of months or a number of years, foster families can make a lasting difference through the care and support they provide.
Would you like to help children and young people? • Could you offer support & guidance to someone who may find it difficult to accept? • Do you have a room in your home for someone that needs you? • Could you offer a new start to a young person? • And you would be paid to do it!
Contact Beta Foster Care for further information
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01325 328 333
info@betacareservices.com www.betacareservices.com
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Every year we trawl the supermarkets, high street and online stores to find you the finest food and drink for your festive plate. This time we’re going one better and introducing you to products that are not only tasty, but brand spanking new…. Getting seasonal at the supermarket There are a whole host of seasonal surprises on supermarket shelves this year, including a number of new releases from our hero, Haribo. These fruity favourites barely last five minutes in Middlesbrough Today headquarters, which is why we’re recommending the sizeable Starmix and Tangfastics Duo tub (£5, 1), which is perfect for sharing – just don’t get between our editor and those fizzy cola bottles. Lindt has also had us licking our lips these past few weeks, with Santa’s Sleigh (£8.99, 2) and Gold Reindeer and Treats (£5, 3), offering new ways to enjoy this mouthwatering chocolate. For pure novelty value we adored the brand’s Mini Gold Reindeer (£5.99, 4), which comes with fluffy antlers on a headband – though we did get a few funny looks
wearing it around the office. Most of the items mentioned above are available at all major supermarkets, but we feel that Aldi deserves an extra special mention. The cost cutting retailer has added a number of seasonal items to its Specially Selected range, including a melt in the mouth Goats Cheese, Apricot and Parsnip Roast (£2.99, 5), which our vegetarians and carnivores loved in equal measure. We’re also confident in saying that the brand’s Golden Topped Christmas Pudding (£9.99, 6) and All Butter Almond Mince Tarts (£1.99, 7) were the best we tried in these categories. When it comes to deciding what drinks to serve this Christmas, there are a few tipples that tickled our fancy.
lemonade. Both are being stocked at all major supermarkets. The retro design of Blue Nun Original Family Tradition (£5.25, exclusively at Asda, 9) also looked good standing on the sideboard. If you’re looking for something nonalcoholic, then try Taylors’ new Christmas Blend coffee (£3.49, Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, 10). We loved the full-bodied flavour and, knowing it comes from Rainforest Alliance Certified Farms, made us feel socially conscious too. One more thing to mention in this section, is that even the youngest celebrants can enjoy a taste of Christmas this year. Our tiny tester thoroughly enjoyed the baby friendly Jingle Belly Christmas Dinner from Ella’s Kitchen (£1.39 at Asda, Sainsbury’s and Boots, 11) – at least that’s what we inferred from it not ending up on the floor.
This includes Highland Park’s 12 Year Old sweet single malt (£35.12, 8), which we enjoyed just as much neat, as mixed with Middlesbrough Today | 15
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Happy holidays on the high street The marvellous M&S have outdone themselves once again with a spectacular array of festive produce, all of which will be available to buy, or order, in store. Unfortunately at the time of our testing, many of the brand’s seasonal showpieces, including canapes, cheeses and cakes, were so fresh they were not yet available to try. We did however manage to get our hands on some of the shelf-based selection, which gave a great indication of the superb taste and eye-catching quality being offered by every item in the range. Our favourites included the Belgian White Chocolate and Coconut Snowcorn (£3, 1), the surprisingly fizzy Winter Berries and Prosecco Hand Cooked Crips (£2, 2) and the Marc De Champagne Jaffa Cakes (£4, 3) – sweets not biscuits – all of which would make a tasty treat for special guests.
This high street home of frozen favourites is offering a wide range of sweet and savoury products, ideal for cutting costs without sacrificing on taste. We highly recommend the Luxury Salted Caramel Cheesecake (£4.99, 4) and Luxury Chocolate and Orange Choux Garland (£4.99, 5), both of which can be defrosted relatively quickly if company arrives unexpectedly. The Christmas Tree Cheese and Garlic Bread Tear and Share (£2, 6) and unusual Wild Boar Cracker (£11.99, 7) would also make show stopping additions to a meal or buffet, without you having to spend hours slaving in the kitchen. If you want to make things even easier though, why not grab some festive food on the go? Big name baker, Greggs, will
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be serving a selection of themed items throughout the Christmas period, including mixed spice and sweet mincemeat muffins (from 90p, 8), a Turkey, Bacon and Cranberry Roll (from £1.10, 9) and a Balanced Choice Festive Flatbread, with turkey breast, pork stuffing and bacon (from £2.75, 10).
If you’ve already blown your budget on presents and can’t quite stretch to the M&S price tag, then Iceland could well be the answer.
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Elsewhere on the high street, we managed to find some wonderful wines and alternative tipples from independent merchants and well-known retailer, Majestic. Top picks for Christmas Day include Bacchus 2014 (£11.99) and the award-winning Three Graces 2009 (£26.99), as well as Curious Brew lager and Curious Apple cider (£1.75), all from leading English winemaker, Chapel Downs (see right).
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Winter wonderland on the web While we’re big fans of shopping local here at Middlesbrough Today, we do have to acknowledge that there are some amazing festive finds on the World Wide Web. One of our favourites is the Raisthorpe Tipple Crackers (£19.50 for two or £45 for six, 1) from www.raisthorpemanor.com. Each cracker contains a traditional hat and joke, as well as a 5cl bottle of either vodka, gin or port, depending on the variety chosen – now that’s what I call getting more bang for your buck. We also found a few tasty treats hiding on Ocado.com, including non-alcoholic Belvoir Spiced Ginger Punch (£3, 2), which we particularly enjoyed once warmed, Thomas J Fudge’s Limited Edition White Chocolate and Cranberry Flapjacks (£3.25, 3) and Festive Flavoured Gifting Jars from Snaffling Pig (£15.99, 4), offering pork scratchings in seasonal Sage and Onion Stuffing or Pigs in Blankets flavours.
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If you do prefer to order from a little closer to home, then why not try bills-shop.co.uk. This is an online store for Durham-based restaurant, Bill’s, and offers an extensive array of jams, drinks, sweets and more. We went mad for its signature chutney (£3.95, 5), Bramble Berry Infusion Tea (£5.95, 6) and deliciously decadent Red Velvet Cupcake Truffles (£11.95, 7) – though we didn’t have them all together, obviously. If, after reading all of this, you still feel more like Scrooge then Santa, we do have one more product that is perfect for you… The aptly-named Misfortune Cookies (£10, 8), available to buy at misfortune-cookies. co.uk, are based on the traditional biscuits, often served in Chinese restaurants. But, unlike their cheerier counterparts, these black-hearted alternatives hold humorously wicked sayings, guaranteed to have guests gasping in shock. A great idea if you’ve got the Grinch coming to dinner.
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The Gressingham duck is a unique breed that first came about when the small but flavourful wild Mallard was crossed with the larger Pekin duck giving a meaty, succulent duck with more breast meat, less fat and a rich gamey flavour. We believe cooking with duck makes a meal much more memorable as it tastes wonderful, is one of the healthier meats you can choose and is easier to cook than you may think. Here are a couple of festive recipes for Darlington Today readers to try.
Pulled Gressingham Duck Wreath This pulled duck wreath is fantastic as a sharing platter with friends at a festive dinner party or if you’re having a drinks party why not make it into canapés serving the shredded duck and berries in gem lettuce leaves or Chinese style pancakes.
Whole Roast Gressingham Duck with a Honey and Cardamom Glaze, Cumin Roast Potatoes and Greens Prep/cooking/resting time: 20 minutes per 500g of duck plus an extra 20 minutes and 30 minutes resting time (E.g. If your duck is 1.25kg cook for 70 minutes and then rest for 30 minutes, giving a total time of 1 hour 40 minutes)
Serves 6 as a sharing starter
Serves 4
Prep: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Cooking/Resting time: 3 hours
1 Gressingham Duck
Ingredients
For the glaze:
1 whole Gressingham Duck • ½ pint cider • ¼ pint cider vinegar • 1 garlic bulb, broken into cloves then crushed • A selection of salad leaves • 1 pomegranate – seeds removed and kept • 1 small bunch of red grapes • Handful of dried whole cranberries
3 tbsp honey • 1 tsp dry sherry • 1 tsp cracked black pepper Juice of 1 orange • 5 cardamoms, husks removed and seeds crushed
For the rub 1 tsp ground cumin • 4 tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground allspice • ½ tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp ground black/ white pepper • 2 tsp salt • 1 ½ tbsp brown sugar • 2 tbsp whole grain mustard Method Pre-heat oven to 190°C, Fan 170°C, Gas Mark 5. Mix all the rub ingredients together. Take 2/3 of the rub and rub onto the inside and outside of the duck. Place the duck into a deep roasting tray; pour in the cider and the vinegar. Cover with foil and place into the oven for 1¼ hours. After 1¼ hours reduce the temperature to 150°C, Fan 130°C, Gas Mark 2. Continue to cook for 1 hour. Then increase the heat to 200°C, Fan 180°C, Gas Mark 6, remove the foil and cook for 10 minutes to crisp up. Remove from the oven and allow to rest somewhere warm for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the ‘wreath’. Place a large plate on the surface you are serving from to create a circular stencil. Shape the leaves around the plate and scatter the pomegranate seeds, grapes and cranberries over the leaves. Remove the plate to reveal the ‘wreath’. Using two forks, shred or ‘pull’ the duck and place the pulled meat in the middle of the wreath, where the plate was. Sprinkle some, or all, of the remaining rub onto the duck. Serve as a sharing dish for everyone to dig into. Alternatively, make into canapés serving the shredded duck and berries in gem lettuce leaves or Chinese style pancakes.
Gressingham has lots of recipes along with ‘how-to’ videos on their website www.gressinghamduck.co.uk 18 | Middlesbrough Today
For the vegetables: 1 Savoy cabbage • 1.5 kg Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks for roasting • 3 x sprigs of rosemary • 150g duck fat • 1 tsp cumin seeds • 1 bulb of garlic split into cloves Method Pre-heat oven to 200°C, Fan 180°C, Gas Mark 6. Remove all packaging from the duck and remove the bag of giblets (if included) from the cavity. Weigh the duck. Prick the skin around the duck legs and season with salt and pepper. Place the duck on a rack in a baking tray big enough to allow you to also fit the potatoes, and add the duck fat (or vegetable oil if you do not have duck fat). Place the duck in the oven. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes per 500g, plus 20 minutes extra. Meanwhile prepare the glaze by mixing all the ingredients together and gently warm in a small pan. Then leave aside in a warm place. Prepare the cabbage: peel off the leaves, discard any that may be spoilt and remove the core. Bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Blanche the cabbage by plunging the leaves into the boiling water and then into a pot of cold water. Drain well, slice thinly and set aside. After the duck has been cooking for 45 minutes, place the potatoes into the roasting tray around the duck, then add the rosemary, garlic and cumin seeds. Baste with the duck fat and season. Turn the potatoes once during cooking. Ten minutes before the end of cooking take the glaze and paint all over the duck with a pastry brush. When the duck is ready, remove from the oven and carefully take out of the tray and place in a warm resting place for approximately 30 minutes. Then take the potatoes from the tray and put into another roasting tray, baste with the duck fat and return to the oven to finish cooking. Pour off all the fat from the liquid left in the tray, and save for another cooking opportunity. You should be left with just the juices to create the sauce. Pour into a saucepan and place onto the hob, bring to the boil, add a generous dollop of butter and simmer. When you are ready to serve, quickly fry off the cabbage in some butter for 2-3 minutes. Test the sauce for seasoning and adjust accordingly. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Your meal is now ready to serve.
WIN A FABULOUS WEEKEND AWAY COURTESY OF PARK INN BY RADISSON DONCASTER WORTH £500! Here’s your chance to win the perfect family weekend away courtesy of the contemporary Park Inn by Radisson Doncaster z(www. parkinn.co.uk/hotel-doncaster). The jam-packed prize includes a two night stay in a luxury en-suite family room for two adults and two children, incorporating Wi-Fi access and breakfast, as well as dinner with a bottle of wine in the hotel’s Café Bar on one evening. The hotel also has ample car parking facilities. You will find lots to do during your stay, as we’re also giving you the chance to visit one of two top attractions in the region. As part of their prize our winner can choose either a family ticket to the awardwinning Yorkshire Wildlife Park, with a magical walk-through experience brining you almost face to face with some of the world’s rarest and most beautiful animals, such as leopards, tigers, lions, polar bears and meerkats (www.yorkshirewildlifepark. com). Or a family tickets to watch local football team, Doncaster Rovers, in action at the Keepmoat Stadium (www. doncasterroversfc.co.uk) Your prize also includes a £50 Gift Card
for you & your family to indulge in some retail therapy at the fabulous Lakeside Village Outlet Shopping Centre which is home to a whole range of women’s, men’s, children’s & home-ware discount outlets with a free coffee or tea at the Thornton’s Chocolate Café for four people (www.lakeside-village.co.uk).
If you are not lucky enough to win, take advantage of this special offer of £69DBB per family room with a 2 course meal & bottle of wine. Call 01302 760 710 & quote ‘Today Magazine’.
To win all you have to do is name three types of animal that reside at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park Closing date for entries is 4 January 2016 See foot of page 37 for entry details Terms and Conditions Prize & offer are for a family room up to 2 adults & 2 children under 12 years sharing. Prize dinner is 3 course & bottle house wine or soft drinks. Thornton’s Chocolate Café drink is standard size, upgraded drinks available at supplement. Prize tickets for max 2 adults & 2 children up to 12 years. Offer rooms not available to book online & include 2 course dinner for max 2 adults & 2 children. Prize and offer subject to availability, valid until 31/06/16, no cash alternatives and editor’s decision is final.
Middlesbrough Today | 19
WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN
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 and dinner with a bottle of wine in Traders Restaurant. Answer this question for a chance to win: What is the name of the hotel’s restaurant? Closing date for competitions is 22 January 2016. See foot of page 21 for entry details
Holiday Inn, Washington Emerson, Washington NE37 1LB 0191 4189400 reservations@hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk www.hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk 20 | MiddlesbroughToday
N WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W WIN A PAMPER PACKAGE WITH ® YUSHOI SNAPEA RICE STICKS Yushoi® Snapea rice sticks, the new delicious baked snacks that are made using green peas and are better for you, are working with Middlesbrough Today to give TWO lucky readers the chance to win the perfect pamper package. With a selection of deliciously scented washes, lotions and balms, along with some great tasting snacks this perfect prize package is ideal for a night along or a fun filled evening with friends.
For your chance to win simply answer the following question: What are Yushoi® Snapea rice sticks made from: Potato, Green peas or Turnip? Boasting less than 99 calories per 21g pack or serving, Yushoi are high in fibre and a good source of protein, nut and dairy free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans and have no artificial colours or flavours. Better still, with these snacks there is no compromising on texture or taste. Subtly seasoned in a range of mouth-watering flavours including Lightly Salted, Soy & Balsamic Vinegar, Smoked Salt & Szechuan Pepper and Sweet Chilli & Lemon, Yushoi Snapea rice sticks are available from Morrisons, The Cooperative, WH Smiths, Whole Foods Market and Selfridges. Closing date for entries 22 January 2016. See foot of this page for entry details.z
NEW MARTHA HILL ESSENTIAL SKIN CARE Natural health & beauty specialists, Beauty Naturals, are offering 3 new Martha Essential Hill Skin Care sets, worth £34.80. Martha Hill has created this exciting new collection of daily care essentials all beautifully fragranced with Pure Organic Rosewater and combining the finest natural, herbal ingredients. The four product set contains 75mls each of Cream Cleanser, Gel Toner, Day Cream and Overnight Cream, providing all you need for your daily skin care routine and will help to reveal a fresh, brighter looking complexion with a naturally healthy glow. For a free brochure of Beauty Naturals extensive range of natural health & beauty products free phone 0800 980 6665 or go online at beautynaturals.com T: @beautynaturals F: /beautynats To win answer this question: What fragrance is used in the Martha Hill collection? Closing date for entries 22 January 2016. See foot of this page for entry details
ELECTRIC JUKEBOX: MUSIC TO A DIFFERENT BEAT Taking on music streaming services, home entertainment systems and everything in between, Electric Jukebox is set to revolutionise the way we listen to music in the home and we have teamed up with Middlesbrough Today to offer one lucky reader the chance to win one of their very own. Electric Jukebox transforms your TV into the ultimate music machine, instantly. You can play music at the click of a button. You can find your favourite artist, album or track by simply speaking into the Electric Jukebox wireless microphone. And what’s more there is no registration required, no credit card details to input, no monthly subscription to agree and no app downloads to undertake. All you need to do is plug in the Electric Jukebox and play music… just like magic! Electric Jukebox also features exclusive mixtapes from some of music’s best loved artists and celebrated curators including Robbie Williams, Ayda Williams, Sheryl Crow, Stephen Fry and Alesha Dixon. Electric Jukebox is about choosing and listening to music together again. Your favourite songs are at your fingertips and simply point the controller at the TV and press play. Curate playlists for the whole family to enjoy or access Electric Jukebox’s exclusive tracks and albums from some of the best artists in the world. Your TV takes on a new life as you soar through the different areas including singles, albums and specially created mix CDs too.
ENTER TO WIN
ANSWER THIS QUESTION FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN... What UK boy band was Robbie Williams once part of? Closing date for entries is 22 January 2016 See foot of page this page for entry details
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
ADVERTORIAL
TOGETHER WE CAN
tter Posture with Coach Dianne Fitness Pilates is a modern, Eastern and Western combination of philosophies based on the original teachings of Joseph Pilates. The aim of Fitness Pilates is to identify basic postural imbalances through Pilates based exercises as well as posture. Once called “the best kept secret of the chic, rich, famous and beautiful,” Pilates is now a household name. Each exercise is designed to make the maximum use of your time by targeting the deep postural muscles of the body, building strength from the inside out and re-balancing your muscles. Fitness Pilates attacks the roots of bad posture by toning little-used muscles groups in the abdomen, torso, upper and lower back (core), while incorporating a slow breathing technique to energise the body. The moves are also designed to work the muscles of the whole body (abdominals, lower back, thighs, buttocks, calves, arms, shoulders) and to gently lengthen them. The result is a body that is properly aligned and at less risk of injury. It is a no- impact class suitable for men and women of ages, levels and abilities, is a good way to relax and unwind and is also weight-bearing exercise so helps to prevent osteoporosis.
Why do we love Fitness Pilates? Fitness Pilates is challenging yet safe exercise that promotes a balanced body, a longer, leaner, toned shape, superb posture, a flat stomach, a strong back and increased mobility and flexibility. It also increases strength and endurance, improves balance and co-ordination, all without producing over developed or bulky muscles. Is it suitable for me? My Fitness Pilates classes are suitable for everyone regardless of age, sex and level of fitness. Each exercise can be done at different levels of intensity with additional modifications to cater for anyone with specific muscular or joint limitations. If you are in any doubt, it is always advisable to check with your GP before undergoing any exercise programme. Participants are encouraged to work at their own individual levels, building up strength, endurance and flexibility gradually at their own pace. For more information contact Dianne on 07762 323970 or email dianne.darville@hotmail.com
The perfect festive gift - grab a 2016 Calendar for £4.99 or 12 week food fitness Diary for just £7.99.
Middlesbrough Theatre 01642 81 51 81 middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk CINDERELLA 4 DEC to 3 JAN 2016 Starring Cheryl Fergison as Fairy Godmother with Scott Gallagher as Buttons. Featuring the live Shetland ponies you’re sure to have a ball this Christmas as we bring you the most magical pantomime of them all – Cinderella. Tickets are already out-selling last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk, so book now to make sure of your place at the ball.
BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY 16 JAN 2016 Celebrating the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Oh what a night awaits for all music fans. . . during the 60s and 70s No1 hits Sherry, December 1963 (Oh What a Night), Walk Like a Man, Rag Doll and Big Girls Don’t Cry saw the Four Seasons and lead singer Frankie Valli propelled to super stardom. Selling an incredible 100 million records worldwide, Four Seasons song Big Girl’s Don’t Cry shares a special place in everyone’s heart.
A VIENNESE STRAUSS GALA 22 JAN 2016 World on Stage bring you A Viennese Strauss Gala but now a new production of this ever popular Show. Recreating the romance of the Viennese Festive season, reminding you of a bygone age of glamorous soirees and Strauss waltzes. The Show features highlights from some of the great Operettas of the Strauss family, Kalman and Lehar; including Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow and many more.
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
ATTRACTIONS
CHRISTMAS FAIR
THE TRANSPORTER BRIDGE
Join us at Marton Community Centre on Sat 5 Dec from 11am to 1pm for our Christmas fair where Santa will also be paying a visit
The Transporter Bridge using interactive displays, there is a viewing room and an outside viewing platform offering a superb setting to view this unique bridge.
FROST FAIR Enjoy a Christmas themed Farmer’s Market, at Stewart Park, complete with hot chestnuts, hot drinks, chocolate treats, festive baked goods and more on Sun 6 Dec from 10am to 4pm
CHRISTMAS FAIR Come along to Grove Hill Community Hub from 11am to 1pm on Sat 12 Dec where the little ones will also have the chance to meet Santa
FESTIVE FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Dundas Arcade are holding a festive food and craft market on Sat 18 & 19 Dec from 10am to 4pm, come along for all your festive wares
SANTA’S GROTTO CLEVELAND CENTRE
ALBERT PARK Albert Park has undergone a multi million pound refurbishment programme which has completely transformed the facilities within the park, which covers over 100 acres of land.
MIDDLESBROUGH BIG WHEEL Middlesbrough Big Wheel. The wheel has a 30 glass-sided and climatecontrolled observation pods, each carrying up to eight people, which also boasts a specially recorded onboard commentary. A very enjoyable experience.
MIMA Mima hosts an internationally important programme of exhibitions, presenting the very best of art and craft from 1900 to the present day. Bringing together the town’s art and craft collections for the first time.
Come along and meet Santa on Sat 5, Sat 12 and Sat 19 Dec from 12pm to 3pm. This is a free event with a gift for every child.
HILLSTREET SHOPPING CENTRE Santa will be in his grotto from 1 to 21 Dec. Visit hillstreetshopping.co.uk for times
ULTIMATE BOWIE 30 JAN 2016 Ultimate Bowie pays tribute to the work of this global super-star, in a show that is visually stunning and vocally impressive. Ed Blaney takes the spotlight and leads an eight-piece band that takes you from David Bowie’s early years with hits such as Starman, through his remarkable career to songs like Let’s Dance, China Girl, and many more.
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Putting the ‘Merry’ in Christmas at Cherry Hill Christmas display now open National Award Winning Christmas Displays
You’ll find a great range of products here at Cherry Hill this Christmas!
Seven colour co-ordinated themed rooms
YOUNG AT HEART CLUB On Tuesdays for over 60’s, receive 10% OFF in the garden centre excluding the café and in store offers
Visit our cafe Cafe serving hot and cold food and freshly-ground coffee. The perfect place to unwind.
Garden & Landscape Centre Stokesley Road, Hemlington, Middlesbrough, TS8 9DY Find us on B1365 between Stokesley & Coulby Newham
Telephone 01642 590650
www.cherryhillgardencentre.co.uk