Issue 8 - Feb/Mar 2016
rum o F m a h g n i l at Bil Planning your next family day out? Look no further than a unique and fun filled ice skating experience at North East’s premier ice arena, Billingham Forum.
Kids everywhere are acting out their favourite moments from the box office smash, Frozen! So, why not have your own Frozen adventure and create truly memorable moments at any time of the year? We have plenty of family friendly sessions throughout the week including Simply Skate, Family Freeze and our Penguin Club - which allows children as young as 18 months to experience ice skating!
EE KATESkateFhireR not included UNDER 3’S S
YEAR! L L A N E P O WE’RE Excludes Christmas
Day, Boxing Day &
New Year’s Day.
NGUINS & E P Y T I L I B STA VAILABLE A N E M W O SN 00 for 30 minutes. ity. £3.
Subject to availabil
View our timetabl e online
local, relevant and entertaining Welcome to a new year and a new issue of Middlesbrough Today. We’re starting 2016 in style with an exciting selection of stories, details of a visit to Middlesbrough from Lulu. Plus details of new exhibitions at Mima and Dorman Museum - all designed to keep you entertained as you curl up for your winter hibernation. Along with our usual mix of local news, you’ll also find great competitions including 2 hotel overnight stays and tickets to see Madam Butterfly along with tips for celebrating Chinese New Year from celebrity chef Ken Hom.
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CONTENTS 4 READ ALL ABOUT IT
A round-up of news from around the town
If you are brave enough to venture out then our feature on warm and stylish fashion for children should come in handy. What’s On can be found on p.23
6 COOKING UP A FRESH START
Happy reading everyone!
We chat to celebrity chef, Ken Hom, about Chinese New Year
8 LULU
Set to shine at Middlesbrough Town Hall
10 SNUG AS A BUG
Winter warmers for fashionable youngsters
23 WHAT’S ON
WINNERS
Shows, sounds and more for the coming months
MT 7 WINNERS A weekend away courtesy Raddison Park Inn goes to: S Patterson An overnight stay for two at Holiday Inn Washington goes to: T McQuillan Congratulations to the three lucky winners of a Martha Skincare Set The two lucky winners of a Yushoi Pamper Package are: B Millington & L Clarkson A Greeting from Santa went to: A Smith of Darlington
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING 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.
Competitions: Riney Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised, late entries or prizes not received. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers.
LOCAL NEWS
TOUR DE YORKSHIRE COMES TO MIDDLESBROUGH Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “It is a huge honour for Middlesbrough to host the start of the final stage of the 2016 Tour de Yorkshire. “The town will provide a fantastic backdrop for this truly world-class event and we look forward to welcoming cycling fans from far and wide to what will be a memorable spectacle. “Between now and May we will working with a number of partners to lay on a series of events as excitement mounts ahead of the main event. Residents, businesses and community groups are being urged to get involved in the build-up to this year’s Tour de
(L-R) Patrick Quigley, Associate Solicitor. Martin Granville, Director at Churchill Property Services Ltd
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Yorkshire and make the most of the global spotlight as the best cyclists in the world roll through town.
Anyone interested in becoming a Tour Maker for the 2016 Tour de Yorkshire should complete a short online survey.
Tees Valley Community Foundation has joined forces with Middlesbrough council to offer £10,000 to support a minimum of 10 groups to deliver cultural projects on and around the Middlesbrough stage of the race.
Volunteers will need to attend a police led training session and be available on race weekend (Friday, April 29, Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1).
Welcome to Yorkshire is also working in partnership with regional police forces to look for a passionate and reliable team of volunteers.
The 2016 Tour de Yorkshire marks the third return for Tour Makers, following the Tour de France in 2014 and the Tour de Yorkshire in 2015. For further information or to apply for a community grant see
Being a Tour Maker offers a fantastic opportunity to be part of the race and be the welcoming face of Yorkshire for spectators.
teesvalleyfoundation.org
ARCHERS LAW COMPLETES £4.4M DEAL
industrial and office units, and those businesses will all continue to operate as normal.
A Teesside law firm has completed a £4.4m deal on behalf of a longterm client which sees the sale of a freehold site on Aycliffe Business Park incorporating 40 occupied units. Archers Law acted for Churchill Property Services Ltd in the sale. Aycliffe Industrial Park is home to around 250 businesses with a strong association to the manufacturing and engineering sector. Patrick Quigley, Associate Solicitor for Commercial Property at Archers Law, said: “Our client’s site was a mixture of
The Tour Maker survey can be found here:
surveymonkey.com/r/TourMakers2016
“We advised on all areas of the deal and liaised with professional partners including accountants and surveyors. Given the economic upturn in the commercial property sector I am advising upon an increasing number of transactions of this value.” “Deals of this nature are not always straightforward as there can be various implications including those involving tax and employment. My employment colleague Lauren Mills advised on the latter; but it was a quick turnaround largely due to the commercial focus of my client.”
MAYOR OUTLINES REASONS FOR OPTIMISM IN 2016
NORTH EAST CEO ADVISES SLOVAKIAN GOVERNMENT
Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd has outlined reasons for optimism in 2016 in a New Year address including a call for the town to consider itself a “University City”.
The head of a North East independent research institute has visited Slovakia to advise the Government about setting up a similar research model for the country.
Speaking at a meeting of full Council, Mr Budd said despite the massive funding cuts being imposed on the town by the Government that “Middlesbrough is not and must not be, defined by its deprivation”.
Chris McDonald, CEO of the Materials Processing Institute, travelled to Bratislava to be the keynote speaker at the Slovakian Research and Development Management Conference.
He said the creation of a combined authority and devolution would go some way to help build a vibrant city region by allowing decisions to be made on Teesside rather than 250 miles away.
This included speaking with the Slovakian Government and advising on the management and cultivation of innovation centres.
He said: “Middlesbrough ‘city’ centre is vital to us and to our neighbours. We have already seen expansion in hotel facilities with more to come. Our restaurant offer is expanding and improving and there is more to come. “The University is massively important to us. Each improvement has a beneficial effect for all of us in terms of accommodation and jobs. More graduates are staying here creating businesses and adding to the vibrancy of our ‘university city’”.
Chris said: “The model of MPI as an independent research organisation for the materials, processing and energy industries is one that other countries appear keen to adopt and as an international Institute we are more than happy to help. It was an honour to sit on a panel with
UP FOR GRABS Great greens are at the heart of a healthy diet – and a new project is bringing them right to the people of Middlesbrough. Fresh, seasonal and locally grown vegetables are now available through the Grown in Middlesbrough bag scheme. Managed by new enterprise start up Permacultivation CIC, the scheme sources vegetables from local farms and small-scale growers and distributes them via hubs in the town to residents every week.
HELP WITH ENGLISH ON OFFER Help with English is being offered at drop-in workshops at North Ormesby Community Hub. Organised by Middlesbrough Community Learning, sessions are held every Monday from 9.30amnoon. Those taking part can also find out more about taking formal courses to gain qualifications in English and Maths.
Permacultivation CIC are also setting up a growing site in the town which will supply produce for Grown in Middlesbrough, and provide volunteering opportunities and training courses for residents. Vegetable bags are available for collection on Mondays from a town centre location and are priced at £5 and £10. For more information, visit the Grown in Middlesbrough Facebook page www.facebook.com/ GrownInMiddlesbrough or email Mike at permacultivationcic@gmail.com.
Chris McDonald
the Slovakian Government and discuss the Institute and how a similar model can benefit Slovakia”. The Head of the Slovakian Research and Development Association described MPI as “world-leading” and “successful” as he introduced Chris McDonald to the conference. The Materials Processing Institute is an independently owned organisation that undertakes R&D work for companies looking to streamline their processes and save on long-term costs. The Institute works across a range of sectors including recycling and waste, construction, automotive, oil and gas and nuclear industries.
APPEAL TO FORMER STUDENTS An organisation that has helped thousands of people into higher education and ultimately changed lives is appealing for some of its former students to come forward to help celebrate its 20th anniversary. One Awards, which was previously known as TROCN and OCN North East region, is keen to hear from anyone holding an Access to Higher Education Certificate or Diploma, who went on to complete a university degree. The awarding body is based in Peterlee, County Durham and has been affiliated with all of the North East’s further education colleges over the last 20 years. Plans are in place to produce a commemorative booklet of case studies to coincide with a 20th anniversary event taking place at the Sage, in Gateshead, in March this year. One Awards is keen to hear from anyone who has gone through this route and has a story to tell. Please email AVA20@oneawards.org.uk for further information. Middlesbrough Today | 5
COOKING UP
a Fresh Start
The ball may have dropped on 2016, but the Year of the Monkey has yet to begin. We caught up with celebrity chef, Ken Hom OBE, to talk travelling, cooking and the Chinese New Year… With echoes of Auld Lang Syne still ringing in our ears, the prospect of celebrating another New Year may seem like a long way off – but not for everyone. On February 8, millions of people around the world will be celebrating Chinese New Year and officially welcoming 2016 as the Year of the Monkey. TV personality Ken Hom – who was born in the Year of the Ox - is leading the charge here in the UK and hopes that more people will take to the kitchen and get involved. “Chinese New Year is like Christmas, Easter and New Year all rolled into one,” he said. “It’s a time for families and friends to gather together, host amazing banquets and herald the coming spring. “Food, of course, plays a huge part in this and we tend to serve dishes that are really symbolic such as fish for prosperity, chicken for fortune and noodles to symbolise long life.” Throughout his illustrious 40-year career Ken has lived and worked in countless countries and travelled the world picking up tips that he can share with his loyal and growing fan base. Now, despite being wellversed in cooking everything from Thai to Italian, Ken’s
roots in Chinese cuisine remain as strong as ever and his passion for food continues to grow. “I absolutely love what I do,” he said. “Every day I get to see new things and taste new flavours and I love nothing more than sharing those experiences with the people at home. “In many ways I consider myself a teacher and it’s great to be in a position where I can experiment with different ingredients and methods and share those ideas in a positive way.” Ken’s efforts to educate the masses, including countless cookery books, television shows and a range of chilled meals sold in Tesco, have made him a household name in the UK – with one in 10 families reported to own a Ken Hom Wok. “It’s fantastic to see so many families in the UK embracing Chinese cooking,” he said. “Many of the dishes are quick, healthy and easy to make, so they’re perfect for our busy, modern lifestyles. “I hope that people will take the opportunity to try it for themselves, not just for Chinese New Year but beyond. After all, eating well and being happy can only help to make the world a better place.”
For more information about Ken Hom, including full details of his chilled meals range, which is available at Tesco, visit www.kenhom.co.uk
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images: www.wesgladwin.com
Ken Hom’s Sichuan Prawns in Chilli Sauce Serves 4 Ingredients 450g (1lb) uncooked prawns 1½ tablespoons groundnut oil 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh ginger 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic 2 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions For The Sauce 1 tablespoon tomato purée 2 teaspoons chilli bean sauce 1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar or cider vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar 2 teaspoons sesame oil salt and black pepper For the Garnish Spring onions, sliced lengthways Method If required, peel the prawns and, if you are using large uncooked ones, cut them down the back and remove the fine digestive cord. Wash them and pat them dry with kitchen paper. Heat a wok or a large frying-pan over a high heat until it is hot. Add the oil, and when it is very hot and slightly smoking, add the ginger, garlic and spring onions. Stir-fry for 20 seconds and then add the prawns. Stir-fry the prawns for about 1 minute. Add the sauce ingredients, season with ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper and continue to stir-fry for another 3–5 minutes over a high heat. Garnish with the spring onions and serve at once.
Ken Hom’s Sweet & Sour Chicken Serves 2 Ingredients 200g sliced chicken breast 2tbsp rapeseed oil 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 2 tsp finely chopped ginger 1 tsp grated orange zest 1 tsp grated lemon zest 100g diced onion or shallots ½ a red and ½ a green pepper diced 50g diced pineapple 1½ tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp tomato ketchup 1heaped tbsp plum sauce 1 tbsp oyster sauce ½ tsp chilli sauce or freshly chopped red chilli 2 tsp soy sauce 2 tsp rice wine vinegar 5g freshly squeezed lemon juice ½ chicken stock cube diluted in 125g hot water ½ tsp cornflour diluted with 1 tbsp of water
Method Heat wok until smoking. Add 1 tbsp of the oil and quickly fry the chicken breast until browned and cooked halfway through. Remove chicken from wok and set aside. Wipe wok and then add remaining tbsp of oil. Add garlic, ginger and fry on a medium heat until lightly brown. Add orange and lemon zest and lightly fry with the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add chopped onions or shallots, green and red peppers and fry off in the wok until lightly browned, but still crunchy. Add diluted chicken stock, ketchup, sugar, plum sauce, oyster sauce, soy and chillies to the wok and bring to a simmer whilst stirring together. Add the sealed chicken breast and cook through until tender. Then add lemon juice and rice wine vinegar. Finally, add diluted cornflour to the sauce and simmer for one minute or until it thickens and is coating the chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!
LULU SET TO SHOUT AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL The incredible Lulu still has plenty to shout about and is back with another fantastic tour which calls in to Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday, April 7.
The Grammy-nominated singer will be performing hits from her 50-year career, such as To Sir With Love, The Man Who Sold The World, Relight My Fire and of course Shout. As well as performing songs from some of her musical heroes such as soul legends Ray Charles and Otis Redding, she will also be taking the audience on a musical journey recalling personal anecdotes, song writing experiences and other entertaining stories. Lulu said: “2015 was an exceptional year for me, in a 50-year career. “From performing at Glastonbury, releasing my first self-penned album and touring the UK solo with my fabulous band for the first time in 10 years. 8 | Middlesbrough Today
“I had so much fun, I’ve decided to get back out there to do it again in 2016, and I can’t wait!”
An audience with Lulu is at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday, April 7 at 7.30pm.
Middlesbrough Town Hall Business Development Manager Rob Guest added: “We are delighted that such an amazing and iconic singer as Lulu will be playing in the last week before the Town Hall closes for refurbishment – I am sure she will bring the house down!”
Tickets, priced £35, are on sale now. To book or for further information, call Middlesbrough Town Hall Box Office on 01642 729 729 or book online at www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk
SNUG AS A BUG Fashionable fixes for keeping your child warm this winter They tear them, stain them and spill all manner of food on them – in fact you name it, kids will ruin their clothes just by being kids. When it comes to replacing their worn out wear it’s all about finding something that they love, but also ticks all your practicality boxes too. Here are our top tips to help youngsters stay snug and stylish all season long. Love those layers: With the British weather as changeable as ever, layers will ensure your child is appropriately dressed no matter how many seasons each day holds. Try pairing long sleeved t-shirts with jumpers, cardigans or even a gilet so they have the option to remove one layer if the temperature climbs or they venture indoors. Get your coat, you’ve played: It’s not always easy to get your child to cover up but, with so many amazing coats on the market, chances are they will find
one they love. From waterproofs with detachable hoods to fancy fur covered creations there’s a whole range of affordable options on offer – we’ll just keep our fingers crossed that you don’t have to chase them around to get them on. Don’t forget the fun: Winter clothing needs to be practical but there’s no reason it can’t be fun, too. Try to find items featuring their favourite characters or opt for bright colours which are more likely to stay on and less likely to get lost at the back of the cupboard. Start with the shoes: Strong footwear is the foundation to any great outfit and, when it comes to kids, we know it needs to be comfortable, and practical, too. This time of year its worthwhile investing in a good pair of snow boots or even wellies, just remember to check they have a good, strong sole and thick tread in case Jack Frost comes nipping at their toes.
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Always accessorise: Scarves, hats and gloves are a must at this time of year. Many stores are now selling matching sets which enhance the look and keep costs down but, if you’d prefer, go for a mix and match or maybe even knit one of your own. It’s all in the jeans: Dark denim is a wardrobe staple for young people this winter. It’s durable, doesn’t show stains and does offer some protection against the elements –just be aware that if it gets extremely wet it can start to rub and will take a long time to dry, so best pack a change of clothes just in case. As an alternative try cords, cargo pants, leggings or extra thick tights.
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Next - Textured grey jacket from £27, Khaki dinosaur t-shirt from £7
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Next - Navy coated jacket from £26, Plane t-shirt from £6, Ochre chinos from £9
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George at ASDA - Disney Frozen Padded Jacket, £14
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Brantano - Feet Street Biker Big Flower Mid to High Boots, £22
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Brantano - Clarks Stomp Roll I G Casual Trainers, £34
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George at ASDA - Peppa Pig Snow Boots, £14
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Primark - Spiderman rain boots, £8
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George at ASDA - Despicable Me Minions Hat, Scarf and Gloves Set, £8
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Marks & Spencer - Hat & Scarf £16 (3 part set), Sweater from £14, T-shirt from £9 (2 pack), Jeans from £12, Boots from £30.
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Marks & Spencer - Outfit from £22, Boots from £42, Scarf £8
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F&F (Tesco) LS Bear Rock Out Tee -£4
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Primark - Vintage blue jean and braces set, 3-4yrs, £10
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Matalan - Faux Fur Animal Print Sweat, £16
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Matalan - Pink Faux Fur Hooded Khaki Parka £22, Faux Fur Animal Print Sweat £9, Black Jewel Skinny Jeans £10, Chain Detail Chelsea Boots £16
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Picture courtesy of Primark UK, item prices vary
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F&F (Tesco) - Borg Lined Check Shirt, £12
Home Builders Federation Customer Survey
Reserve this month to receive Part Exchange* plus a £5,000 bonus**.
STAINSBY HALL PARK I MIDDLESBROUGH I TS5 8EH
The way to
A NEW HOME
Stainsby Hall Park has a fantastic range of detached 4 bedroom family homes. All boast an impressive specification including spacious living accommodation, ensuite to master bedroom and a garage.
PRICES FROM £224,995 £299,995. 3 BEDROOM HOMES ALSO AVAILABLE FROM £184,995.
RESERVE A 4 BEDROOM HOME BY THE END OF FEBRUARY AND NOT ONLY WILL WE GIVE YOU FULL VALUE FOR YOUR CURRENT HOME IN PART EXCHANGE BUT WE WILL ALSO ADD A FURTHER £5,000**
Call: 01642 590 325 Click: www.bellway.co.uk Visit: Monday 12pm - 8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 11am - 5.30pm, Thursday 11am - 8pm, Friday - Sunday 11am - 5.30pm. Prices correct at time of going to press. Images are for illustrative purposes only and may include optional upgrades at additional cost. Specification on site may differ. *Bellway reserve the right to refuse a Part Exchange, terms & conditions can be found at www.bellway.co.uk/special-offers/part-exchange. **Available on selected plots only and not in conjunction with any other offer. Maximum value of part exchange is 70% of new home price including bonus and additional extras.
ADVERTORIAL
Part exchange your old home for a new home at Stainsby Hall Park and receive a £5,000 bonus Buyers at Bellway’s Stainsby Hall Park development on the outskirts of Middlesbrough are in for a New Year treat thanks to Bellway offering buyers with a 100 percent part exchange deal on their old home plus a £5,000 New Year bonus. Sales advisor, Jan Pounder explained: “Often selling your old home is the most difficult part of moving, dealing with estate agents and strangers looking around your home is not everyone’s cup of tea. Our part exchange deal will guarantee you 100 percent of the valuation in addition we will top this up with a New Year £5,000 bonus. It’s a great deal and saves you the cost of estate agency fees and all the hassle that goes with selling a home yourself.” Prices at Stainsby Hall Park start from £184,995 and Bellway
has a range of three and four bedroom homes available Visitors to Stainsby Hall Park can view two Bellway show homes to gauge the lifestyle on offer. The Brampton show home offers 962 sq ft of living space. The ground floor features an entrance lobby leading to a large living room which flows through to a separate dining room and fully fitted kitchen off which there is a utility room and WC. There is also a single integrated garage. The first floor provides three good size bedrooms and a family bathroom, there is an ensuite to the principal bedroom. The Brentwood show home offers 1349 sq ft of living space, the ground floor provides excellent family accommodation comprising an entrance hallway leading to a separate living room measuring 15’ 6” x 11’ 2” a kitchen dining area and a
separate family room, there is also a downstairs utility room of the kitchen and separate WC as well as a single integrated garage. The first floor provides four bedrooms, the master bedroom and bedroom one including ensuite facilities in addition to the family bathroom. 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. 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.
NEW EXHIBITION IS ANYTHING BUT PANTS
his characters using a light box, or designing their own digital ‘Sharracter’.
Families are guaranteed a treat with the Pirates, Pants and Wellyphants exhibition which runs at the Dorman Museum until Sunday, April 10.
To give an idea of the range of his work, the exhibition includes a reading area where visitors can sit and enjoy a wealth of books written and illustrated by Nick, from books for toddlers to a selection of Jacqueline Wilson novels aimed at older readers.
Nick Sharratt, the man behind a host of instantly recognisable children’s book illustrations, is the subject of the colourful, humorous and hands-on exhibition. Exploring Nick’s passion for drawing, from childhood to his current status as an internationally renowned illustrator and author, the show features many of the well-known characters he has brought to life over the years, including Tracy Beaker and Pirate Pete. The exhibition includes a recreation of Nick’s studio where visitors can have a go at drawing a selection of 14 | Middlesbrough Today
Pirates, Pants and Wellyphants – The Illustrated World of Nick Sharratt runs at the Dorman Museum until Sunday, April 10. Entry is free.
For further information on the exhibition, please contact: Dorman Museum reception on 01642 813781.
FAB FEB FAMILY FUN WEDNESDAY 17 – SUNDAY 21 FEBRUARY 10.30am – 3.30pm
Don’t let rainy days be boring this half-term – enjoy a fun family day out at Lightwater Valley! We have heaps to do both indoors and outdoors with a selection of rides and giant indoor inflatables for you to run wild and let loose on this half term! The Angry Birds Activity Park and indoor Angry Birds Space will be open along with the Lightwater Falconry Centre with over 35 amazing birds of prey, reptiles and mammals. Get up close with our farm where you’ll find lots of cute and cuddly animals to pet and feed, including rabbits, lambs, piglets, miniature ponies and cows and alpacas. The Granary Café will be open for a delicious lunch or coffee and cakes and you’ll find up to 50% off the RRP in our Shopping Village on everything from ladies, gents and children’s clothing to soft furnishings and garden and home products.
Rides and activities open at Fab Feb Family Fun: Skyrider Eagles’ Creek Farm Lightwater Wheel Carousel Eagles’ Claw Fairground Rides Angry Birds Activity Park Angry Birds Space Bouncy Castles Pirate Assault Course Gladiator Dual Giant Slide Pillow Bash Soft Play Ball Pool Lightwater Falconry Centre Animal Feeding Reptile Handling Petting Farm Shops Cafes
Entrance
Please note: The full theme park is not open.
Book your tickets now at 0 .0 6 £ lightwatervalley.co.uk/fabfeb per person
LWV reserves the right to withdraw and add attractions. Rides are subject to weather conditions.
Lightwater Valley, North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3HT. Tel: 01765 635 321
home comforts… The Gables Care Home - Middlesbrough
A purpose built home with a modern feel, The Gables is located in Middlesbrough and offers great transport links. Providing nursing and residential 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. The Gables Care Home provides all of the following; • Residential care, General Nursing care, Dementia and Nursing Dementia. • 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
The Gables Care Home
You’re in caring hands
Home Manager: Chris Churchill Highfield Road, Middlesbrough, TS4 2PE Tel: 01642 515 345 email: gables@hillcare.net www.hillcare.net
Jérémie Mabiala making The Art Collector, Institute for Human Activities, undisclosed location, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2015
NEW EXHIBITION AT MIDDLESBROUGH INSTITUTE OF MODERN ART EXPLORES GLOBAL ECONOMIC INEQUALITY One of our most treasured luxuries, chocolate, is made by the labour of some of the most underpaid workers on the planet – this issue, along with the fight for equality by a plantation workers’ union, regeneration, community survival and the commissioning and funding of art, forms the latest exhibition at Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (mima). After a transformative year, mima continues to grow as a civic intuition, promoting a vision of art as a tool for social change. This new show addresses the exploitation of poverty by Western companies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – in this instance, cocoa. Opening on 6 February, this co-production between Cercle d’Art des Travailleurs des Plantations Congolaises (Congolese Plantation Workers Art League) and the Institute of Human Activities (IHA), features a number of sculptural self-portraits produced by subsistence farmers and plantation workers from the IHA settlement in a rainforest 800 miles from DRC’s capital, Kinshasa. Originally moulded from a tributary of the Congo River’s clay and then 3D printed and cast in chocolate, the sculptures tell the story of a partnership between the IHA and members from the cocoa and palm oil plantations across the country. Lacking the resources to break free from a purely extractive economy, workers can barely provide for their livelihoods from the income they earn and lack basic infrastructure such as clean water,
electricity, adequate sanitation facilities. Making these self-portraits allows plantation workers, who cannot live off production employment, to carve a living from artistic engagement with plantation labour, creating a local free zone for critical thought and artistic production that in turn has a positive impact on the livelihoods of local inhabitants. Where a pound of cocoa beans usually represents a value of approximately US $0.25 to these plantation workers, who earn monthly wages of around US $20, the same pound of cocoa vastly increases in value if the chocolate made out of it is inscribed into the art market. mima Director Alistair Hudson said: “Works made at the IHA have previously been presented under their founder’s name, Dutch artist Renzo Martens. However, while still under the supervision of Martens, this is the first time that the Congolese Plantation Workers Art League present their work on a stand-alone basis. “It seems right that an Institute of Modern Art such as mima should now acknowledge the vital role these communities and cultures have played in shaping our modern society, as well as the injustices that have been carried out in our development. As a civic institution we have a role to play in integrating exhibitions and communityfocused initiatives so it’s fitting to host such a relevant exhibition at mima by a settlement who are putting the profits of their workers by profits back into the locale.”
Martens and the IHA recognise that art highlights vast global inequalities, with profits in the main going to regions where art is exhibited, debated and sold – mostly Western art capitals such as London, New York, Paris and Berlin – rather than these problem areas in other parts of the world. When art does engage with these global inequalities, the IHA proclaims that it’s often in the advancement of jobs and opportunity. The display at mima includes ten works and a public resource area. Comprising a table designed and produced by Unto This Last, a London-based alternative design and furniture maker; reproductions of the Arne Jacobsen’s Butterfly chair; and an iMac computer. The resource area will act as a public space through which visitors can access and digest information related to the Institute for Human Activities. mima Senior Curator Miguel Amado said: “This exhibition is not just about aesthetics, it is about ethics. Formerly these plantation workers were lacking the resources to break free from an activity that extracted almost everything and gave little back. However, creating these pieces allows them to carve a living from art which enables them, to some extent, to redistribute capitalist forces to their advantage.” On view Saturday 6 February until Sunday 15 May 2016
for more info go to www.visitmima.com
Middlesbrough Today | 17
OUR EARLY YEARS MAKE SUCH A DIFFERENCE TO THE PERSON WE GROW UP TO BE every child so that their individual talents emerge and develop. By retaining smaller classes, children feel more secure about contributing.
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, 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
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. We also understand the daily demands faced by parents so at Red House School we try and alleviate these by providing a bus service, which is a safe and reliable way of getting children to school. We also understand the predicament which many parents face during the School Holidays, therefore we keep our doors open and provide a stimulating and exciting Holiday Club for children that attend the Nursery & Infant School and a Sports Camp for pupils attending the Prep & Senior School. Parents are happy in the knowledge that their child is in an environment that is familiar, with a variety of fun activities
taking place. We also provide excellent Wrap Around Care during term time from 7.30 am to 6.00 pm. This is very beneficial for children whose parents require an extended day. The Wrap Around Care is very flexible and can be booked on an ad hoc basis to suit parents needs. 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
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18 | Middlesbrough Today
A CHANCE TO SEE THE PREMIERE OF MADAM BUTTERFLY AT BILLINGHAM FORUM
‘By far the best company to bring Russian ballet to a British audience’ Stage Talk Magazine
The highly acclaimed Russian State Opera returns with the perfect tragic opera Madam Butterfly – one of the most colourful & exotic operas Music by Giacomo Puccini Italian libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa Sung in Italian with English Subtitles
Featuring an impressive cast and accompanied by a large live Orchestra with over 30 musicians No opera can match the tragedy and sorrow of Puccini’s Madam Butterfly. This tale of the doomed love of an American naval lieutenant and his young Japanese bride inspired Puccini to write some of his most sublime and beautiful music. Set in Japan at the turn of the century, Madam Butterfly is among the most colourful and exotic of all operas, and from its theme of noble self-sacrifice spring melodies that grips your heart.
It tells the story of a doomed love affair between an American naval officer and his young Japanese bride, whose selfsacrifice and defiance of her family leads to heartbreak and tragedy. The premiere of this exquisite production, with its beautiful set and costumes, intensifies the emotion in an already heart-breaking opera. This touching story of innocent love crushed amidst two utterly different cultures resonates as strongly as ever in today’s world. Opera performance of Madam Butterfly in Durham is: Sunday 28 Feb at Billingham Forum Theatre, for tickets call 01642 552 663 No experience is needed to enjoy these classics. Our sets and costume designs, as well as the informative programmes make the productions very accessible and most of all, enjoyable. For opera, English subtitles make it easy to follow the story as you listen to the performance sung in its original language.’
Middlesbrough Today has teamed up with The Russian State Opera company to offer one reader a pair of tickets to see Madam Butterfly at Billingham Forum on Sunday 28 February. For your chance to win the tickets simply enter your name & address on a postcard and title it Madam Butterfly competition and send it to the address at the bottom of page 21 in this magazine. Closing date for entries 20th Feb 2016.
Middlesbrough Today | 19
ADVERTORIAL
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HOLIDAY INN WASHINGTON Holiday Inn Washington UK hotel is ideally located between historic Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle, just off junction 64 of the A1. 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. It’s ideally placed for enjoying the many tourist attractions the area has to offer. 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 or an
afternoon of retail therapy at the famous intu Metrocentre, the hotel is ideally placed for enjoying the many tourist attractions the area has to offer. It’s also within easy reach of 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 people 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 18 March 2016. Valid for stays from Mar to end April, subject to availability. 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
ADVERTORIAL
N WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN W Middlesbrough Today Exclusive Reader Offer
WIN AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT BEST WESTERN DERWENT MANOR HOTEL Here is your chance to win a great British winter stay. Be welcomed with either a sweet or savoury crumpet with lashings of tea, whilst relaxing in the comfortable surroundings of the Grouse and Claret Bar. Afterwards take a dip in the pool, relax in the Jacuzzi or work those calories off in the gym. Then enjoy a relaxing three course table d’hôte dinner with a bottle of house wine at Guinevere’s Restaurant, before retiring to a comfy bed for a good night’s sleep and a hearty British breakfast the following day.
Offered in either a standard double or twin room, for two people for one night.
To win answer this question: What is the name of the restaurant at BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel? See foot of this page for entry details. Closing date for entries is 18 March 2016 Terms and conditions: Subject to availability at time of request. Valid for two people one night in standard accommodation. Valid from Mar until end April.
BEST WESTERN Derwent Manor Hotel in Allensford Nr Consett is set in 20 acres of Northumberland countryside, overlooking the Derwent Valley. This country house hotel is the perfect rural retreat. If you aren’t successful in winning the competition then why not take advantage of this fantastic offer for Middlesbrough Today readers. Available Sunday - Thursday, only £89 per couple for one night in standard accommodation including soup on arrival and a three course table d’hôte dinner, waking up to a hearty British breakfast before departure. The same offer is available Fridays for £99 and Saturday for £109 per couple. Offer is subject to availability for dates Feb to end April. TO BOOK call reservations on 01207 592000 and quote DT15. Terms and conditions apply.
WIN A MOTOROLA FOCUS 85 The term ‘Connected Home’ has become synonymous with a lot of tech products, but Motorola has taken this one step further, creating a number of products that work to create a ‘Connected World’. Not only are these perfect for those who are hopping on and off planes for work or heading off on their holidays, but they’re equally as useful for everyday use, and capture moments that you would otherwise miss. We are giving one lucky reader the chance to win this fantastic prize, which retails at £89.99 Motorola’s innovative new Focus 85 HD Wi-Fi video monitoring camera helps you stay connected to your favourite people, pets and places from anywhere at any time - perfect if you’re popping to the
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shops and want to check in on an elderly loved one or to make sure that everything is alright at home. This hi-tech new addition to the Motorola line up boasts a range of features to make sure you never miss any of the action. Answer this question to win: What is the retail price of the Motorola Focus 85? Closing date for entries is 18 March See foot of this page for entries details
To enter any of the Middlesbrough Today competitions please ensure you clearly mark on your entry the name of the competition that you are entering together with the answer to the question if there is one with your name, address and contact telephone number to: Middlesbrough Today Magazine competition, 45 Atkinson Gardens, Aycliffe Village, Co. Durham, DL5 6LH (Please note any competition entries without full contact details and contact telephone numbers will be voided and not entered into the competition)
Middlesbrough Today | 21
Middlesbrough Town Hall 01642 72 97 29 middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk Big Time American Wrestling Experience | FEB 19
Theatre Middlesbrough Theatre 01642 81 51 81 middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk Snake in the Grass | FEB 10 – FEB 13 Where there’s a will, there’s a war. Having left home many years ago, Annabel Chester returns after the death of her father and is uncomfortably reunited with her younger sister, Miriam. Having learnt of dark deeds committed both in the recent and notso recent past, blackmail rears its ugly head and the sisters join forces in a series of comic and chilling events, unleashing haunting memories. Tickets from £8.00
Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra FEB 18 Marios Papadopoulos, music director of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, directs from the keyboard Beethoven’s soaring Piano Concerto No. 1 – a work brimming with grandeur and inventive vigour. Beethoven’s towering Symphony No 3. Tickets from £20.00
The larger-than-life phenomenon that is taking over the hearts and imaginations of children and adults all over the world returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall for its annual ‘Town Hall Brawl’ extravaganza! Tickets from £10
Shakers | FEB 24 - 27 The times may have changed but the waitresses haven’t! Taking us back to the glamour and glitz of an 80s cocktail bar, less is MORE present this classic all-female comedy. Welcome to Shakers, where the guys come to drink, the girls come to dance and many a drunken tale is told under the watchful eyes of Adele, Carol, Mel and Nikki. Tickets from £8.00
West Side Story Mar 1 Presented by Crash Bang Wallop Youth Theatre Look out! Gang warfare comes to a stage near you, as the Jets and Sharks set about each other in Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story. In their divided community, Tony and Maria find love and romance, but also prejudice and blind hatred. With the thrilling dance rhythms of Latin America, and songs such as “America”, “Somewhere”, and “Maria” Tickets from £9.00
Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show FEB 25 It’s fun all the way as the ‘Purveyors of Cool’ swing into town with a sensational show with live orchestra and dancers featuring The Greatest Music Of The 20th Century. The show features wonderful memories of classic Las Vegas with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Sammy Davis Junior in a fabulous production that continues to be successful worldwide. All performed totally live! Tickets £20.00
Mendelssohn: Elijah | MAR 12 Cloudbusting – The music of Kate Bush FEB 19 Celebrating the 30th anniversary of ‘Hounds of Love’ The music of Kate Bush is as popular and relevant today as it ever was. This new 2-hour concert showcases Cloudbusting’s recent performance of the Hounds of Love album against a dazzling selection of hits such as Wuthering Heights, Babooshka and This Woman’s Work. Mandy Watson as the voice of Kate doesn’t disappoint. Tickets from £16.00
22 | Middlesbrough Today
The Simon and Garfunkel Revival Band MAR 2 Presented by Wim Wigt Productions Ltd These very likeable full-blooded musicians perform the cult duo’s most beautiful songs in their “Feelin’ Groovy” programme. You will hear wonderful passionate ballads like Scarborough Fair and Bright Eyes and classics like Mrs. Robinson, The Boxer, The Sound of Silence, the whipping Cecilia and many more. Tickets from £17.50
Presented by Cleveland Philharmonic Choir and the Mowbray Orchestra. International baritone Alan Opie stars in the title role of this dramatic retelling of the story of a prophet with the power to bring down fire – or rain – from the sky. Distinguished tenor Nathan Vale, singing the role of Obadiah, has a voice to melt hearts, and the quartet of soloists is completed with soprano Sinead O’Kelly and mezzo soprano Charlotte Heslop. Cleveland Philharmonic Choir will be conducted by John Forsyth MBE. Tickets from £2.00
All details are correct at the time of writing. Please re-check before visiting.
Wilkinsons
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Landscapes
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www.wilkinsonslandscapes.co.uk
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Tel 01642 790409
We are a leading provider of landscape services to the region with many satisfied customers and a reputation for first class quality work Block Paved Drives Patios Walls & Fencing Timber Decking Trellis & Pergolas Ponds & Water Features Planting Schemes Lawns and Borders
Wilkinsons Plant Centre
www.wilkinsonsplantcentre.co.uk Opening Times Mon - Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm Closed on a Sunday from the end of October until the first Sunday in March. Wilkinsons Plant Centre, East Brocks Farm, Eaglescliffe, Stockton on Tees, TS16 0QH
Find us on the A67 midway between Yarm & Teesside Airport Visit our Plant Centre, to see inspirational show gardens and the largest selection of plants in the North East