s s e r p x e
Mar/Apr - 2012
TYNE
VALLEY
Step into Spring with TVE Packed with offers and thing to do! Run Northumberland Michelangelo’s amazing offer Slimming World group loose an amazing 200 stone! Breeze Bikes
... and meu!c h Mor A FREE Publication for the people and businesses of the Tyne Valley
Specialist Business of the Year 2010
March fabric Final Reductions
EX PUBLTENDED B IC DE MANY D
Many fantastic offers including some superb designer collections, prices held by continued demand, pop in and see us!
MANY FABRICS
HALF
VOYAGE SILK COLLECTION
Sumptuous and striking designs, many are just ‘one off’ reductions 00 retail up to £61.99 mtr mtr
MARCH PRICE
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Very comfortable and stylish, assorted fabrics, sold from shop floor were £150
PRICE
MARCH PRICE
£79 .95
VOYAGE KIDS COLLECTION Hand finished embroidered and appliqué fabrics on natural woven cottons. Assorted designs retail £44.49 mtr
MARCH PRICE PRESTIGIOUS DANIELLI COLLECTION,
retail £22.95 mtr
now
£5 .m0t0r
STOP PRESS! STOP PRESS! 1) QUILTS STILL IN STOCK PRICE HELD! £5 .00 2) 3) 4)
UPHOLSTERY FABRIC CLEARANCE! 100’s rolls were up to £30 mtr, caravans, suites, clubs, pubs etc.
From
£3 .m0t0r
£7.m5t0r
5) 6)
Single, double & king size, assorted togs OUR FAMOUS DOG BEDS Assorted sizes, great value from just CUSHIONS SALE 22’’, complete with inner. All designs and plains BOUNCE BACK PILLOWS Always in stock, spiral fibre filled Now were £5.00 DE LUXE TABLE PROTECTOR 3 colours, fleecy back. Price Held THE £1 COLLECTION! Fabrics to clear to suit all rooms were up to £12.95mtr
SNUGGLE FLEECE Huge range, pets, crafts, clothes etc
MARCH PRICE
£4 .m7t5r
£3 .e0a0ch £1.e9a5ch £2 .e5a0ch £7 .m5tr0 £1.m0tr0
TABLE VINYLS
Plastic coated, many designs Kitchen, school, picnics, cafes etc.
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FULL CURTAIN MAKE UP SERVICE AVAILABLE
FACTORY FABRICS
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Contents 7.
Famous Four Regular columnists... Belinda Ambrose
Editor
This year more than ever it is vital to focus on something positive, different, and meaningful in our lives. Belinda tells us in her positive column.
11. Ryton What’s On 12. Michelangelo’s 14. Climb Kilimanjaro
Richard Hannam
16. David Taylor Photography
Stop the press! Richard Hannam gets serious. And maybe on this subject of Scamming you can understand why.
18. Crawcrook/Greenside What’s On 22. Slimming World
Roger Clegg
27. Prudhoe What’s On
Roger looks forward to the warmer spring days and the fantastic photographic opportunities that they bring.
30. Run Northumberland 34. Richard Hannam column
Joanne Major
36. Breeze Bikes
Joanne’s column is a little taxing this month, but could actually be a very rewarding read for many.
37. Heddon & Horsley What’s On 38. Wylam & Ovingham What’s On
What’s On?
39. Wylam New Business 41. Stocksfield What’s On
Recognise any of these places?
44. Corbridge What’s On 45. Balman Art Gallery
Northumberland, and our own Tyne Valley, have some truly spectacular hidden treasures, often where you least expect it.
46. Hexham What’s On 48. Hexham Queen’s Hall What’s On
If these little images have got you intrigued, read through our ‘What’s On’ sections to not only find out what’s on, but also where Richard has been this month!
51. Belinda Ambrose column 52. National Trust What’s On 55. Josie’s Dragonfly Ball 56. Darras Hall / Ponteland What’s On 58. Joanne Major column 60. Roger Clegg column
What’s On listings are free. If you’d like to advertise a community event, simply... email: enquiries@tynevallyexpress.co.uk
March/April 2012 - features
Stocksfield Playgroup - p42
Many of us have strong memories from our early education. What will these young children at Stocksfield’s Playgroup remember in ten or twenty years’ time?
4
Northumberland Run - p30
One of the region’s most stimulating and picturesque running events returns for a second outing in 2012 – and competitors have been issued an Olympic-sized challenge.
New Boat for Calvert - p60
Calvert Trust Kielder offers people with disabilities and their family and friends, the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities in Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland.
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Editor’s page Welcome to our spring issue.
The new look Tyne Valley Express is packed with great offers from our advertisers and lots of interesting things to do. Hello and welcome to the Spring Issue of Tyne Valley Express back on track after our derailment at Christmas!. We do hope you missed us as much as we missed you in January. We had some trouble getting printed in January, but have measures in place now so this never happens again. Spring is a time for new beginnings and fresh stuff so in line with this the Tyne Valley Express has a new website: www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk so please take a look. On this new website are some great images of the Tyne Valley with a gallery coming soon filled with all the images our photographer Richard Hannam has amassed over the years. So let us Spring into action and tell you all about some of the great stuff in this packed issue. How about a trek up Kilimanjaro page 14, a horse trek across Sierra Nevada page 58, learn Karate page 44 or even go for a Northumberland Run page 30.
Or if your just looking for a heart warming story this Spring then the Tyne Valley Express brings you these in abundance. Starting on page 23 read all about a group of people in Crawcrook who have lost an amazing amount of weight between them whilst making new friends along the journey, read about the breeze bike revolution on page 36, the blooming outstanding resident of Wylam on page 39, the new Tyne valley youth theatre on page 41, a gem of a playgroup on page 42, Balman Gallery having plenty to smile about on page 45, the huge success of Josie’s Dragonfly ball on page 55 and the great success of Calvert Trust on page 60. We also have our regular features jammed into this issue with each What’s On town section bursting with regular and new What’s On listings, the National Trust listing’s on page 52, Queen’s Hall listing’s on page 48 and our four regular columnists dotted around the publication with Richard, Belinda,
Joanne and Roger to be found on pages 34/51/58/60. They can be found talking about everything from Scam e-mails to tax credits. Our photography this issue is provided by David Taylor of Hexham who has captured the stunning Northumberland coast so well on our double page spread inside. The front cover photography is provided by Roger Clegg also of Hexham. The image is of Walton Craggs Hadrian’s Wall. Hope you all enjoy this Spring Issue of Tyne Valley Express and it helps you get the most from the Tyne valley this Springtime. God Bless Robert and the Tyne Valley Team.
Advertising with Tyne Valley Express
Getting an advert in TVE is not as expensive as you think. Adverts start from as little as £50.00 with a free design service and free photography on your first advert. You could be in front of a potential thousands of Tyne Valley residents with your own professional advert. Contact us for more details quoting ‘Get on board the TVE’ email: officePC@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk or telephone: 0191 499 0777
Distribution Area: Households and businesses in: Hexham, Darras Hall, Ponteland, Corbridge, Stocksfield, Riding Mill, Wylam, High Mickley, Broomley, Hindley, Clara Vale, Mickley, Ovingham, Ovington, Prudhoe, Wylam, Horsley, Heddon on the Wall, Crawcrook, Coalburns, Greenside and Ryton.
Delivered free through the post to thousands of households and every business in our distribution area. Also placed at Doctor’s surgeries and Community organisations.
Telephone: 0191 499 0777 E-MAIL sales@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk enquiries@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk artwork@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk
TYNE VALLEY EXPRESS
4, Old Eltringham Court, Prudhoe, Northumberland, NE42 8QJ
www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk
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Mar/Apr Issue
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Buy 2lb of SAUSAGE get 1lb FREE LEAN STEAK MINCE 5lb for £13.50 10 fresh boneless CHICKEN BREASTS £16
FREE DELIVERY for Tyne Valley residents and...10% OFF your first order Simply telephone your order before Saturday and we will deliver to you on Saturday!
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T:0191 2763022 (office hours/answerphone) M:07808 726595 / 07989 266983 E: enquiries@litchfieldsclean.com W: www.litchfieldsclean.com
Ryton Ryton Choral Society New singers always welcome at our regular Tuesday rehearsals, 6.45 p.m. in Charles Thorp School Main Rd, Ryton Spring Concert: GREAT CHORUSES Saturday 24th March King’s Hall, Newcastle University, 7.30 p.m. Your chance to hear the best-loved choruses from Handel: Messiah; Haydn: The Creation; Bach: Magnificat £10 (£8 concessions) For more info or tickets phone 07786823637 or go to www.rytonchoralsociety.org.uk Ryton Community Library Opening hours: Saturdays 9.00 – 1.00; Mondays 12.30-5.30; Thursdays: 9.001.30 (Coffee Stop open in church hall above). Library entrance is opposite Ryton Deli, down from Barclay’s Bank. Rhymetime for under 5s every Monday from 2.00 p.m. Reading group last Thursday of each month, 1.30 pm. Special offer while stocks last: Borrow 6 books and get a free paperback! Friends of Ryton Library events: Story Walk with Chris Bostock Thursday 29th March 3.30 – 5.00 Help Chris find the lost key to the library. Free fun event for accompanied 7-11 yr olds. Find out more from Ryton or Crawcrook Library or visit: www.friendsofrytonlibrary.org.uk Seasonal Photography Walk: Curiosities of Ryton Sunday 15th April 2.00-4.00 pm. Meet outside the Ryton Community Centre. Get expert camera tips and enjoy exploring our lovely village. No charge but donations welcome. Baby Signing New Baby Signing class at Ryton Methodist Church on Tuesdays 10 - 11. Come and find out what your baby wants to say to you. My class is all about enjoyment, learning everyday signs and singing and signing nursery rhythms. Class is suitable for babies from birth to 2 years old. Relaxation and play time afterwards, with toys for the babies and a hot drink and biscuit for you. Contact Vicki Hart 07935 182603 or email: vickih@tinytalk.co.uk or visit www.tinytalk.co.uk/vickih Ryton and District U3A. All the groups listed below take place at the Youth Centre at Barmoor except where stated. We are a very friendly group and would welcome new members, we are mostly retired, and if anyone wishes to suggest a new activity we are open to suggestions. Weekly Thursday 9.30 -11.30 Carpet Bowls at Ryton Youth Centre (this seems to be a very popular activity)
Weekly Monday’s Craft Group 1.45 - 3.45 Tuesday’s Carpet Bowls 9.30 - 11.30 Wednesday Carpet Bowls 9.30 11.30 Thursday Art 9.30 - 11.30 Monthly 4th - Tuesday History 2pm 1st Wed Coffee Mornings 10 -11.30 2nd Wed Musical Appreciation 2pm 3rd Wednesday General Meeting
? n o s ’ what 2pm usually with a speaker 4th Wednesday Board Games 2 -4pm 3rd Thursday Reading Group2pm held at Crawcrook Library 3rd Friday Senior Strollers 10am meeting at the Ryton Coop car park Monthly - 2nd Friday 2pm Gardening group venues as arranged see notice board. None members are most welcome at both these events. Other activities include social and cultural visits, Singing for Fun Come along and join our group. Men and women of all ages welcome. A chance to blow off some steam, meet new friends and have fun! Monday 6:45 - 8:45 Willows Lounge (Ryton Social Club) Contact Jessica 07506830467 Footprints Church of the Holy Spirit Wednesdays 9.30-11.00 Coffee, Tea, Biscuits, Toys and Natter Also open during School Holidays Yoga Classes in Ryton Yoga for All. Tuesday 9.30am -11am, Wednesday 6.30pm - 8pm. Drop-in class £4.50. Holy Cross Church Hall, Ryton, NE40 3QC. Linda Irving 0191 413 8609 e-mail: linda@yogalinda.org.uk
Ryton Old Village - Richard Hannam Ryton Local History Society Meets on the last Thursday of the month at 7pm in Crawcrook Library. Further details contact: 0191 4138164.
Wednesday mornings 9.30-10.30am. Term time only, starting back 15th September. £3 per child per session (£1 each for siblings), payable on the door. Alison 07775 760670
Holiday & After School Child Care @ Ryton Rangers Out Of School Club. Ages 4-12 Years. Free sample session for new starters. Contact-Sharon Neil, Ryton, Crawcrook & District Youth Centre. Tel. 0191 4132053 or visit: www.rytonrangers.weebly.com
Pre-School Movers New movement and dance class for pre-school children aged 3-4. Ryton Methodist Church Hall (entrance on Grange Road). Wednesday afternoons 12.30-1.15pm. Term time only. £20 per child per term (sibling discount available). Alison 07775 760670
Movers & Shakers Pre-School Dance Music and movement classes for pre-school children and their parents and carers. Ryton Methodist Church Hall (entrance on Grange Road) on
Parent and Toddler Groups Monday 9.30am – 11.00am Holy Cross Church Hall, £2. All Welcome Friday 9.30am – 11.30am (NCT Group) Holy Cross Church Hall, - £2. All Welcome
If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, Holy Cross Church, Ryton Village email: office@tynevalleyexpress Join us for worship Sundays.... 08.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Parish Communion 1st Sunday in the month at 4.30 pm The Ark For pre-school children and their families - songs, stories, activities ● M.O.T’S and tea.2nd Sunday in the month at ● SERVICING 6.00 pm Evensong The traditional Prayer Book service sung with Anglican Chant. ● BRAKES Holy Communion Thurs at 10.00 am ● CLUTCHES Followed by coffee and a chat in the Parish Hall. ● TYRES Sunday, 18 March 2012 at 10.00 am ● DIAGNOSTICS Family Service for Mothering Service. Sunday, 1 April 2012 at 10.00 am Palm ● BATTERY’S Sunday Dramatic Reading of the Passion ● ELECTRICAL and Holy Communion. Friday, 6 April 2012 at 11.00 am Good Friday Hour of Devotion. Sunday, 8 April 2012 Easter Day Services RYTON -@REAR OF BARMOOR GARAGE 8.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Renewal of Baptismal Vows and Holy Communion 6.00 pm Evensong
Holy Cross Parish Hall Thinking of holding a party or celebration? Holy Cross Parish Hall may be the perfect venue. Tel: 0191 4132605 for further details. Dancing Sequence and Ballroom at Ryton Rugby Club every Tuesday 8 – 11pm. Friendly atmosphere. New members welcome. Dance hall newly re-furbished. Enquiries Tel: 01661 834 176 Strictlee Ballroom Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes at Ryton Rugby. Wednesday evenings, Beginners 7.05pm, Improvers 8.00pm. All Welcome! Contact Jean Hodgkinson for further information on 0191 4137989 or 07831 101221.
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e h t f o e t s A Ta iterranean Med Ryton! in Sadly, some restaurants are unique for all the wrong reasons. Michelangelo’s is definitely not one of them. After all, a restaurant that’s been around for 12 years clearly has a lot going for it. When we go out for a meal, it’s all about value for money represented by a good choice of well prepared food, reasonably charged & efficiently served in pleasant surroundings. That sums up exactly what Michelangelo’s has to offer & a lot more besides. Having easily found space in the large car park, you walk through the entrance & can be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported to somewhere in the Mediterranean. And straight ahead, very conveniently, is the perfectly themed bar stocked with a wide range of beverages to suit the most discerning palate…including an espresso machine of course. Turn to the right & you enter the light, airy & comfortable conservatory which leads out into the terraced garden, yet another haven for eating & socialising on warmer days & evenings. Turn to the left & you arrive in the cosy main restaurant, a European haven that makes you feel you are a couple of thousand miles from Ryton. The conservatory & main restaurant can seat around 80 people, and a few more in the garden too, but there is also an elegant function room which can house around 100 people. And that’s not the end of the premises story. Uniquely, Michelangelo’s also boasts a 10 room hotel with accommodation available in The Lodge for as little as £30 in the ensuite, TV equipped & wi-fi enabled rooms. Ideal for a weekend break or longer
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& even to provide a bed for the night should you happen to have a glass too many with your meal! So, these beautifully presented & family friendly premises can cater for every conceivable situation from an intimate meal for two, a wedding, a child or adult birthday party, a private dinner for friends or indeed anything you might require. The buildings act as the perfect package for what is contained within. First of all, the great team of well trained & welcoming staff who will handle your order with friendly efficiency. A solo diner, couple, group of friends, parents & children or a large function, everyone is very welcome. And they’re clearly geared up to handle any situation. I happened to call in for a coffee (yes you can do that too) one Saturday to find that over 100 people from the local rowing club had turned up at just a few minutes’ notice. I watched as their needs were handled with no problems at all. Which leads me nicely to the menu which provides anything from a coffee or light snack right up to a luxury multi-course dinner. Over the years, the cuisine has largely been Tuscan Italian but has now been expanded to include Mediterranean food styles from countries including Spain, Greece, Southern France & North Africa. The richly stocked wine cellar will also ensure you have the perfect accompaniment to your meal. However, although these food styles are known to be a healthy option, there are some diners that have even more strict requirements. Whether these be on health or religious grounds, Michelangelo’s can satisfy them…from Halal to Slimming World!
Whatever your choice, you can be sure that your meal will contain the best ingredients & be beautifully cooked. And with the economic situation as it is, you’ll find prices to suit your wallet as evidenced by the latest offer of a three course meal for just £4.95. Michelangelo’s has already been around for a long time but have continued to move with the times and, like any good business, reacted to what customers are asking for. On this evidence, they’ll be around for many years to come. So, next time you want to get away from it all, forget the travel agent & visit Michelangelo’s instead. Richard Hannam
d gs n a in m n p h c e n ev .30 u L ly l 6 r til a e 2 1
2 1 0 2 l a i c Sp e
l a e M e s r u o C 3 Y L N O r fo
5 9 . ÂŁ4 at. . .
o l e g n a ichel el Hot
Email: Michelangelos@live.co.uk
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Conquer the highest mountain in Africa for cancer charity Explore one of the highest freestanding mountains in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro and stand on top of the world for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The expedition takes you up the mountain via the Rongai route which is considered to be one of the most achievable routes to the summit and retains a sense of untouched wilderness.
people in our group who went up the mountain for personal reasons. I did it for my mum, who was looked after by Marie Curie Nurses at home before she died, and that was what kept me going when the going got really tough. I can honestly say that standing on top of the mountain was a real emotional moment and one of the biggest achievements of my life.”
This ten day challenge takes place from 7th to 16th June 2012, where you’ll trek through cultivated farmlands, lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and above the clouds to the barren lunar landscape of the upper mountain, before your final push to its snow-capped summit. Chris Kamara said: “I climbed Kilimanjaro for Marie Curie Cancer Care earlier this year and it was an unbelievable experience with great camaraderie all round. There we a lot of
We hope that this challenge will raise over £60,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care, whose nurses provide free care to people with terminal cancer and other illnesses in their own homes and in the charity’s nine hospices. Why not sign up today or for further information about the Kilimanjaro Trek, please visit our website: www.mariecurie.org.uk/kilimanjaro or call us on 08700 340 040.
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Hazel Rayson celebrates50 years as a dance teacher H
Hazel Rayson began dancing at the age of 3, but it was by chance she became a dance teacher 50 years ago after her teacher decided to move away. Today Hazel teaches at her studios in Barmoor Ryton. However it all began very differently in small huts and community centres around the Blaydon/Wylam and Swalwell areas. Hazel’s principles are that pupils do not have to be a perfect dancer to
attend the studio and she encourages all ages and pupils of all abilities to attend and if we cant provide a suitable class we will help you in the direction of another studio that can assist. In 1962 hazel also took a job at Balmbras music hall where she performed along with other dances the Can Can. The dance is synonymous with her and the studio and is still performed outside balmbras each year on the 9th June by her pupils. As a dancer she competed regularly in local competitions and danced in pantomime at sunderland echo for many years where she worked with The Swalwell Operatic Society both as a dancer and choreographer. Over the years charitable causes have been close to Hazel’s heart and has also been something her pupils have regularly performed for and to help raise money for. The Charlie Bear Appeal, Roy Castle, Children In Need, The RVI, The Freeman and Macmillan Nurses to name a few. Shows have been put on at all our local theatres around the region and in 1999 Hazel Rayson was chosen to perform Forht International Dance Teachers as a showcase in London where Hazel’s pupils danced at her majesty’s then on to Sadlers Wells at The Royal Albert Hall and Shaftsbury Theatre and also Disneyland Paris We still dance at local fairs incl the ovingham goose fair as well as care homes in the community. 50 years of dance has seen many changes and styles in the dance world but Hazel’s choreography has always stayed up there with the younger teachers. Over the past 25 years Hazel has also been secretary of the tyneside area committee of the IDTA. In celebration of 50 years, Hazel will be hosting a reunion on 7TH July at the Lancastrian suite Dunston where we hope to bring together as many pupils and friends and charities etc from the last 50 years.
Tickets are now on sale Please Contact – Helen or Hazel on 0191 414 3946 or 07979 087 660 email wardrobemistress@hotmail.co.uk
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Crawcrook & Greenside Also open during School Holidays Rock Solid Youth Club: Christian based youth group Every Friday 4.15pm – 5.30pm Lots of fun for kids aged 8-12 years North East Cancer Care Research Solid Rock Youth Club Every Friday 6.00pm – 7.30pm @ Holy Spirit Church Crawcrook Ages 13-16 years 9.30-11.30 Coffee Stop 2nd Saturday of each month Every Tuesday 9am – 3pm. Drop in for Coffee, Tea, Cakes and Stalls in aid of coffee and fellowship. Cancer Research. Also from 1pm during Coffee Stop we have Art Stop where you can get Gym Tots involved in all things artistic. Gateshead council run Gym Tots @ Hall Hire Emmaville Hall Crawcrook, Ryton every Crawcrook Church of the Holy Spirit hall Thursday 1-00pm – 2-15pm term time hire – Contact Helen Hardisty only... Contact Bev 07960152689 on 0191 4137279 Crawcrook Women’s Institute Prayer Time Meets the third Monday of the month Every Wednesday morning at 7pm –Emmaville Hall. Please contact 8.15am – 9am Audrey Stafford – 0191 413 5981 or Holy Communion Service Mary Brookes - 0191 413 4170 Every Wednesday 9.15am – 10am LL NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Sunday Services including Sunday School Every Sunday 10am – 11.15am. Services Crawcrook Slimming World alternate between Holy Spirit Crawcrook @Emmaville Hall every Wednesday and St John’s Greenside. Check the 5.00pm and 7.00pm. website for service information and lots Contact Amanda 0789 428 4343 more. www.greensideparish.org.uk Footprints Crawcrook Centenary Methodist Church of the Holy Spirit Church Wednesdays 9.30-11.00 Sun 10.15am - 11.30am Coffee, Tea, Biscuits, Toys and Natter Sunday school age 2+ Also open during School Holidays 10.30am Morning Worship 6.00pm Evening worship Clara Vale Village Hall Mon 9.30 - 11am Toddler Group We have a number of regular activities (term time only) take place at the hall. Anyone is welcome 7.15pm Music Group to attend without booking:Tues 10 am- 11.15am Coffee Time Wednesday Evening from 8pm with Devotions (Alternate weeks look Dog obedience class out for the banner) Thursday Morning from 930am 2pm Ladies Friendship Group Mother and Toddlers Group (Various speakers and time for a Thursday Afternoon from 2pm cup of tea and a chat) Ladies bingo. 7.30pm Church Fellowship or Bible Thursday Evening from 6pm Study (alternate weeks please ring Kickboxing for details) Sunday Evening from 7pm - Yoga class Wed 10am - 12 noon Contact - Christine Bainbridge: Indoor Bowls Club 0191 413 7600 6 - 7pm Junior Endeavour ages 3 - 8 7.15pm Club 812 ages 8 - 12 Emmaville Primary School Thurs 10am - 12noon Craft Club and Toddlers Group. Every Tuesday Coffee Morning 1:30pm – 3:00pm 1- 3pm Craft Club (card making, cross Kids R Fit Group. Every Monday stitch, knitting and painting) 9:00am – 9:50am 7.30pm Youth Fellowship age 11+ Both Groups are in the Main Hall Sat 10am - 12 noon Coffee Morning (Term time only) ALL WELCOME! Bi - monthly lunch club - Fridays at Crawcrook Library 12noon. Rhymetime For further information on any Preschool. Contact 0191 4138164 event please ring Margaret on or call in at the Library to discuss days/ 01661833807 or e-mail to times etc. centenary @thischurch.com Local Councilors Ward Surgery. First Saturday of the month 10.00am Greenside Community Centre Reading Group Greenside Women’s Institute Meets on the third Thursday of the Meets on the first Monday of the month at 7.00 – 9.00pm. Come along to month, except bank holidays, at 7pm. read & discuss books. Contact Janet Madine for details on Baby and Toddler 0191 413 6870. Every Monday 9.15am – 10.45am at ALL NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Greenside Primary School. 50p per session. Greenside History Group
? n o s ’ t wha
RNLI Gateshead Branch Local Meetings to arrange support for this life saving charity. For meeting times contact Mrs Brenda Graham on 0191 413 8593
Holy Spirit Church Crawcrook Footprints Church of the Holy Spirit Wednesdays 9.30-11.00 Coffee, Tea, Biscuits, Toys and Natter
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Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the supper room. All welcome Toddlers Group Wednesdays 9.30am – 11.30am. Youth Club
Tuesday 6pm – 8pm. Youth room Tel: 0191 4132053. Carpet Bowls Wednesdays 2pm. Karate Fridays 7pm. Dog Training Obedience classes Mondays and Thursdays 7.15pm. German Shepherd Club Tuesdays 7.30pm. The large hall and supper room are available for bookings for parties, entertainments and other activities. Booking Secretary Mrs A. Pyle. Tel: 0191 413 2023. Further information can be found at: www.greensidecommunity.co.uk
Clara Vale Village Hall Hall hire rates Hall with use of kitchen £12 per hour Kitchen area only £5 per hour Committee room and kitchen £10 per hour Whole hall £15 per hour Day time party-children etc-£25 from12 till 5pm only Evening parties-flat rate £60 after 6pm till 12pm only Regular hall bookings may be given discounted rate if long term hire is guaranteed. Christine Bainbridge - 0191 413 7600
If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
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& Children’s Project 3-13 2012 I am joining a Trek in the Himalayan Annapuras, home to some of the highest peaks in the world. The challenge takes us from the frenetic, fascinating city of Katmandu north to Pokhara and the start of the Trek. We will pass through thick rhododendron forest and mountainside villages, perched up above picturesque rice terraces providing a real glimpse of local life. It is described as a tough challenge, but one where we are rewarded with some of the most magnificent mountain panoramas in the world. We will be trekking over 5 days for up to 9 hours per day and sleeping in tents with temperatures at night potentially down to -2c .Anyone who knows me knows I don’t like the cold! Although we are not trekking higher than 2850m we could still be affected by the altitude. At the end of the Trek I will be helping with children’s projects in Pokhara that support homeless children and Children who are HIV+
I have been doing some 2 and 3 hour walks over the weekends to raise my level of fitness and at lunch time you might spot me walking up and down the stairs at the Baltic and the various stairs up and down to the quayside. I still need to raise funds for the charity so if anyone feels they can help by providing raffle prizes or sponsorship please contact me at donmccloud987@btinternet.com or visit www.justgiving.com type my name in sponsor a friend and follow the instructions every £1.00 helps. Thank you in anticipation. Barbara McCloud
I am fundraising for the Fostering Network the UK’s leading charity for everyone involved in fostering. If you wish to find out more about the charity visit www.fostering.net. To date I have been supported by 2nd Crawcrook Brownies who held a coffee evening and raffle with all prizes kindly donated including vouchers from Cakes by Becky and Martins the Butchers both businesses in Crawcrook. I have also been sponsored by many kind members of Greenside Parish Church, work colleagues family and friends. The reason I got involved was because of Sue who I met last year when I signed up at the last minute to do the Hadrian’s Wall Challenge. It was an enjoyable well organised challenge arranged by and to raise funds for Disability North. I had decided my next challenge would be the Lyke wake walk but by October I still hadn’t signed up for it so when Sue said she was going to Nepal and asked me to join her I thought why not.
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200 + Stones lost in weight at Crawcrook Slimming World!!! Amanda Greener launched her dream business in April 2011. As a slimming world member for over 15 years Amanda had always dreamed of running her own Slimming World business franchise. In 2011 she got the opportunity to do just that and launched Slimming World Crawcrook in April 2011. At the time of writing this article in December the group had lost an amazing 200 stones in weight between them in just eight months. Many of the members of the group have achieved their own personal target weight in that time. In September 2011 Amanda had to add an extra session due to the quick growth of the group and now holds two sessions at Emmaville hall in Crawcrook every Wednesday at 5.00pm and 7.00pm.
Amanda told TVE she is very excited about what 2012 will bring to her members and looks forward to helping them all achieve their targets and realize their dreams. Amanda also told us that Slimming World really is not a diet, it is a healthy eating plan where you never need to go hungry. In fact the statement you hear most from members who are enjoying huge weight losses is “ I cannot believe you can eat so much and lose weight” and that really is the key to success on the slimming world plan. To eat plenty of the right foods, just like some of the examples on this page. So if you want to lose weight and be healthy in 2012 then why not pop along to Emmaville hall Crawcrook Slimming World on any Wednesday at 5pm and 7pm. Or contact Amanda on 07894284343
Recipe of the Week Apple & Cinnamon Strudel This perfect pastry pudding is packed with fruity goodness and delivers a cool cinnamon kick that the whole family will love - delicious served hot or cold. Serves: 8 Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 25-30 minutes Syns per serving: 4.54.54.5 681g/1½lb cooking apples 28g/1oz sultanas ½ level tsp cinnamon grated zest of 1 lemon artifical sweetener, to taste Fry Light, for spraying 4 x small sheets filo pastry 28g/1oz low-fat spread, melted 1 level tsp icing sugar, for dusting 1. Peel and core the cooking apples and slice them thinly. Mix in a bowl with the sultanas, cinnamon and lemon zest. Sweeten to taste with artificial sweetener. 2. Spray a large baking sheet with Fry Light and place a sheet of filo pastry on top. Brush very lightly with the low-fat spread and then cover with a second sheet. Repeat with the remaining two sheets, brushing with more low-fat spread. 3. Spoon the apple filling onto the pastry lengthways, leaving the pastry uncovered at the edges. Now roll up from one long side into a cylinder, with the pastry join underneath. Pinch the ends of the cylinder to seal in the filling. 4. Brush with the remaining melted low-fat spread and then bake in a preheated oven at 190°C/375°F/Gas Mark 5 for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is crisp and golden brown. 5. Cool slightly before dusting with icing sugar and cutting into thin slices to serve.
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Crawcrook & Greenside £25 reward Recently because of circumstances beyond our control we had to vacate our showroom at Crawcrook. We would rather give YOU the money than pay extortionate High Street rent & rates. That is why we will give £25 to anyone who leads us to a successful sale of one of our Beds or Mattresses. This offer is genuine the prices are not top loaded to pay for this.
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Did you know that not only do we sell a fantastic selection of gifts that are hand crafted in some way including candles, soaps, jewellery, cards and glassware but we also now have available craft workshops, after school clubs and crafting birthday parties, see in store for details. PAINT YOUR OWN EASTER SLUG.... this will be £4.00 per slug and booking and advanced payment are necessary for this activity.
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Prudhoe Tyne Valley Canoe Club. We meet every Friday throughout the year in either Tyne Riverside Country Park (April-September) @ 6.30 pm or Waterworld (October-March) @ 8.30 pm. All ages welcome. For more details contact John Dean Tel. 01661 832575 Ryton And Prudhoe Brass Band Can You Play A Brass Instrument? The Ryton and Prudhoe brass band are looking for new brass players. We rehearse on a Thursday evenings at Prudhoe Methodist and take part in concerts throughout the Tyne Valley. There is no restriction on age or ability, as we just play to enjoy ourselves. Interested? Contact Ray Hutchinson 0191 4144883 or Neville Fairbairn 01661 832162 New TinyTalk TinyTalk baby signing classes starting at The Gate (Prudhoe Community church) Thursdays 10-11 suitable for babies from birth. learn to communicate with your baby before they can talk through the use of signs and gestures and singing popular nursery rhymes. Also time to relax and have a cup of tea/coffee all included in the price. Contact Helen Angel 07734 209304 or email helenan@tinytalk.co.uk or visit www.tinytalk.co.uk/helenan Prudhoe Methodist Church (West Road) Our Luncheon Club meets in our Lounge on the First Floor at 12 noon on every second Friday of the month when we serve Soup and a Sweet, followed by tea/coffee and biscuits. Price £3. All are welcome.” Parent and Toddler Group 9.30-11 am Tuesdays and Thursdays (term-time) Margaret Glendinning 01661 832066 Prudhoe Town Council www.parish-council.com/prudhoe Our Monthly Ordinary Meeting is held on the last Wednesday of each month beginning at 7:00pm (some months may vary) and our Planning, Contract and Works Meeting is held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month beginning at 7:00pm (some months may vary). Both meetings are held in the creche at Waterworld and are open to the public. Agendas for both meetings are posted on the website and Town Council noticeboards on the Friday before. Minutes of these meetings are also available on the Town Council website and on request. The Prudhoe in Bloom Working Group meet at Waterworld on the 2nd Wednesday of each month beginning at 5:30pm (some months may vary) and welcome anyone interested in horticulture. The group discuss planting in the Town, the Prudhoe in Bloom gardening and painting competitions and the Towns entry to Northumbria in Bloom. A report of each meeting is available on the Town Councils website. The results of the Prudhoe in Bloom Gardening Competition 2011 will be announced on Saturday 24th September at an awards presentation beginning at 10am in St Mary
? n o s ’ what Magdalane Church Hall. Everyone is welcome to view photographs of the entries and enjoy the prize-giving sponsored by Tyne Valley Garden Centre, Mickley and Prudhoe Town Council. For more details contact 01661 835487 or e-mail prudhoetc@hotmail.com Prudhoe Health Walks Meet every Thursday at Tyne Riverside Country Park Visitor Centre at 10:30am for a short walk with longer extension on second Thursday of month. Tel: 01434 613227 Prudhoe Gleemen Male Voice Choir New members welcome. www.prudhoegleemen.org.uk . We meet 7.15pm every Monday night at Prudhoe Methodist Chapel for our practices. Everyone who would like to join in can just come along You do not need to read music. Prudhoe Women’s Institute We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at St Mary Magdalene Parish Hall. Please contact Anne Tullock 01661 832982 or Barbara Robinson 01661 834840. New members and visitors welcome. West Wylam Residents Association Meet on the last Monday of every other month, We meet in The Manors, Adderlane Road, Prudhoe at 6.30 p.m. For further information please contact Caroline on 01661 831380 St Mary Magdalene Tea Time Church. This is held on the first Sunday of the month in St Mary Magdalene Church Hall at 5pm. For further details contact Revd Charles Hope 01661 836059 or the church website; www.prudhoeparishchurch.org.uk Prudhoe Over 50’F Forum Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month in St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Front Street, Prudhoe at 9.45 for coffee and speaker at 10am, Friends Of Prudhoe Woods Meets in the Bowling Pavilion at Waterworld on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7.30pm Prudhoe Community Band Meets on Saturday mornings during term time at Prudhoe High School from 9.45 - 11.45am. All ages, abilities and instruments welcome. Check out the website at www. prudhocommunityband.co.uk or contact Jill Walker (Secretary) on 07790 385888. Prudhoe Gardeners’ Association This is the organisation which manages over 100 allotments for Prudhoe Town Council. Anyone in the town and the surrounding area can become a member of the Association and access the HUT which is open every Saturday morning 10am - 12noon for the sale of seeds, garden fertilisers, compost, etc for use on the garden as well as allotment. Anyone wanting an allotment can put their name on the waiting list at the HUT. The HUT is situated behind the West Wylam Inn. For more information please call Joan Russell 01661 833101 or email: joanrussell@talktalk.net
Prudhoe Community Allotment We meet every Wednesday and Friday morning (weather permitting) to do general gardening on the Community Allotment in Redwell Court, Prudhoe. You can learn how to plant seeds, prick out and pot on your plants. Visitors are welcome to come along. Go to the website www.prudhoe.org/allotment for more details or ring Joan Russell 01661 833101. Prudhoe Ground Force Meet every Monday morning 9 – 10am at various locations in Prudhoe to litter pick. Anyone wishing to join this group should contact James Dobson 01661 833895 for details of the day or email: j.dobson@ic24.net Toddler Group Parent and Toddler group meets at Ebenezer Methodist Church, Scales Crescent, West Wylam. Wednesdays 9.30am – 11am. Tel: Anne Chapman, 01661 833465. Everyone welcome.
Prudhoe Community Choir Welcomes new members. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings between 7.45pm and 9.45pm at Stocksfield Baptist Church. Contact Amy Furniss (Chairperson) Tel: 0191 413 5090 or Catherine Edge (Secretary) Tel: 01661 835738. Prudhoe Women’s Institute We meet 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm at St Mary Magdalane Parish Hall. Please contact Anne Tullock 01661 832982 or Caroline Stow 01661 831380. All new members welcome! Prudhoe Mothers’ Union Meets the first Tuesday of every month in St Mary Magdalene church hall at 1:30pm and have a variety of speakers throughout the year. The organisation is open to all church goers. All welcome. Dinky Dots 10am - 12pm - Term time Friday Mornings @ St Mary Magdalene Church Hall (opposite Barclays Bank).
If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
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The Race is On… Launch of Run Northumberland’s 2012 Series One of the region’s most stimulating and picturesque running events returns for a second outing in 2012 – and competitors have been issued an Olympic-sized challenge.
“We are now hoping as games’ fever begins to build that even more people will be inspired to take part in what must be one of the country’s most scenic series of runs.
The Run Northumberland series held against the backdrop of some of the county’s most iconic landmarks attracted more than 1,000 club and recreational participants this year.
“We are committed to making Run Northumberland an event we can all be proud of. This year’s four races attracted club and recreational runners from across the North East and with the extra date added we are confident we can achieve our goal of attracting 2012 runners for 2012.
But with the London Olympics just over seven months away, the race is on to double the number of runners with organisers Team Decathlon hoping to strike gold with a target of 2012 for 2012. With an extra fixture added to the half marathon and 10K programme that proved such a success in 2011, Team Decathlon’s race director, former England and GB athlete Richard Hunter, hopes runners of all ages and abilities can be encouraged to pull on their training shoes and step-out in support of one of the North East’s newest sporting contests. He said: “This year we had just over 1000 entrants over four races, which was fantastic for an inaugural event like this.
The 2011 series included a half marathon – one of only a handful in the North East - and three 10k events at Bamburgh on the spectacular north Northumberland coast and the National Trust’s Wallington and Cragside estates. Next year’s itinerary will get off to a racing start on March 25 with the Wallington half marathon which will take competitors along the banks of the River Wansbeck and on the roads around Scots Gap and Cambo before finishing under the property’s iconic Clock Tower. This will be followed by four 10k races at Cragside on April 14, Bamburgh on June 17, a return to Wallington on September 9 and newcomer Matfen on October 14. Richard hopes that those who thought their running days were behind them can be encouraged to lace up their trainers again and put their best foot forward not just for the joy of getting fit but in aid of the North East Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF), Run Northumberland’s adopted charity for 2012. To this end, a number of new activities have been added to Run Northumberland’s itinerary at each venue, including children’s and family races aimed at getting people of all ages and abilities off the sofa and out into the open air exercising. A series of running workshops are also being planned to help people with their training, while the Bamburgh date will also again include the North East Veterans’ Championships.
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Richard hopes families will take up the challenge of getting fit together. “Our events are fun, friendly and all-inclusive. We cater for everyone and the 10k races especially are ideal for club runners as well as novices and younger runners. “Runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities are all welcome to join in and enjoy the courses and atmosphere all the events are sure to serve up. “What could be nicer than running against the backdrop of Bamburgh Castle or traversing the traffic-free carriage track around Cragside with its wonderful views over the estate and further afield to the stunning Simonside Hills? Richard said: “Run Northumberland is an exciting new event for the county and for the North East. A major sporting event such as this has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the local economy and improve the profile and image of Northumberland at a national and even international level.” He expects the Wallington 10k on September 9 to be especially popular – falling as it does just a week before the Great North Run. “It will be a good chance for Great North Run competitors to get in some last minute competitive practice and experience the thrill of being part of a big race along the quiet roads around Cambo and Scots Gap. For more information on the Run Northumberland series and the Children’s Heart Unit Fund, go to www.runnorthumberland.org. The half marathon costs £25 to enter for non-club runners and £23 for UKA club members. The 10K races costs £13 and £11 respectively.
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Prudhoe Don’t Get Done
For a change, I’m going to be serious. In fact, I’m very angry about a totally heartless & callous section of our society we’ve come to know as scammers. They don’t care who you are & will prey on young or old, the vulnerable & the just plain careless. As long as they can separate you from your cash, they are happy. They continue to come up with increasingly ingenious scams using the internet, the post, the telephone & your front door. In the North East alone, they’ve taken over £4 million from old people! So what are typical scams, how should we avoid them & what should we do when we find one. With the space available here, I cannot answer all these questions fully. So, here’s an offer for you. If you feel even the slightest suspicion about something but are not sure, get in touch with me via the contact details on my website below. Alternatively, contact the Office of Fair Trading, Citizens Advice, Action Fraud, Age UK, or Crimestoppers. Today, the range of scams is huge & constantly evolving. Here’s a selection. How many of them have you, your family or friends come across? You get a letter or email saying you’ve won an overseas lottery l Someone knocks on the door saying you need a repair to your roof l You’re offered some dead cert shares in a company l
You can buy a ticket in short supply for a concert you want to attend l An email arrives saying you’re due a tax refund l You’re approached via the internet by an‘attractive’ person wanting a date l You have a timeshare property & someone tells you they have a seller l Your daughter is told she could be a successful model l You get an email saying that you need to update your bank details l You’re offered solar panels to get access to a Government rebate l Someone in front of you brakes suddenly & you crash into the back of them l You receive an offer of training, home study or a good job l You’re offered some land which will increase in value after planning permission is granted l You sell an item on eBay, receive payment by PayPal & despatch the item l You’re contacted by a will writing company l You can put a large sum of money into your account in return for a percentage l Your car is for sale & someone contacts you saying they have a guaranteed buyer l You’re contacted by your phone company saying you are in arrears & asking for payment l
This is just a selection from the better known scams. It shows how sinister, creative & dangerous these criminals can be. I’ve personally experienced some of these & not been caught out. But that’s not to say I might be one day. So, what can we do to protect ourselves? First of all, make sure your computer is protected with the latest firewall, anti-virus & anti-spam software. Make sure your passwords are strong & update them regularly. Even so, the odd email may still get through. So the second line of defence is common sense.
If you do receive an email which asks for personal information or has a too good to be true offer, delete it. Much the same advice applies to anyone who knocks at the door or phones you & items received in the post. And never pay until you have received the goods or services & you are happy with them. So here we are already a quarter of the way through 2012. My best wishes to you all during the rest of the challenging year ahead. And, whatever you do, stay safe from the scammers. Express Thought: I fancy a pet spider. They’re really expensive at the pet shop. I reckon I can get one cheaper off the web!
Richard Hannam - www.cameraflair.co.uk Tel: 07976 823 564
Prudhoe Community Church
NEW: Zumba classes Sat 10-11am or Mon 6-7pm Turn up on the day, or ring in advance for more information 01661 830167 or 07576 969 193 Family Service Every Sunday 10.30am Luncheon Club Every Wednesday 12.30 Great Food, Great Company! 10 -14’s Club Every other Wednesday 6.30pm to 8.30pm Computer Games, Films, Group Activities, Free Food and Much Much More! Great activities in a safe environment. Mark 1:1 Church@West Wylam Cricket Pavillion. Every Sunday at 5.30pm
Fun, Friendship, Food & Worship
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‘A church with a Heart for the Community and Worship’ The Gate Swalwell Close, Prudhoe 01661 830167 & 07576 969 193
Breeze Network comes to the Tyne Valley The Breeze network is the biggest ever programme to get more women into riding bikes for fun. Through Breeze, British Cycling is creating a national women’s cycling network. We know that many women would like to participate in cycling, but face barriers in becoming more active and this is where Breeze can help. Breeze is all about fun, local, friendly, free and flexible bike rides for women, led by women. Our Breeze champions are local women who want to share their love of cycling and have been trained by British Cycling to help women to have fun and ride safely. Is the Breeze network for me? Absolutely! If you want a fun, friendly and entirely free opportunity to make new friends and get out into the great outdoors in a relaxed and safe environment, then the Breeze network is for you. It’s a great way to see the local countryside and ride a bike at your own pace.
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You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to join your local Breeze ride. Many of the women who choose to take part may not have ridden a bike in a long time or done anything like this before. Your local champions are in place to organise rides that suit your level and skills. With all the organisation of safe and enjoyable routes planned for you, there’s more time to relax and focus on having a good time. Taking part in the Breeze network means your local area will be at your fingertips. Your Breeze champions will be full of ideas and identify some safe routes to take you on a ride, but we want you to share in deciding where to go too. A relaxing café stop will often be part of the ride! Group sizes will vary but you might cycle with up to seven other women. However small your group is, you can be assured of the opportunity to get to know each other, chat and enjoy doing things your way. What will I need? You will need access to a roadworthy bike before you get involved. If you haven’t ridden your bike
for a while, it’s wise to get it checked over before you ride. A cycling helmet is recommended but not compulsory. Layers of clothing are also a good idea. Rides can go ahead even in wintry conditions, so make sure you’ll be warm and dry. Meet your local Breeze champions Hi. I’m Jo. I got my first ever bike as a surprise for my 40th birthday. My kids and husband taught me to ride it in the back yard and I haven’t looked back. I love riding my bike and can’t wait to share the fun. Hi, I’m Liz. I’ve been cycling by myself for a few years so I am really looking forward to leading others on local rides. Cycling is great for all different shapes and sizes so don’t be afraid to come along to one of our rides. Your local Breeze champions will be organising rides in and around the Tyne Valley over the coming months. To find out more and sign up for rides go to:
www.breezebikerides.com
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Heddon & Horsley Heddon on the Wall Ballroom Dancing Classes We welcome beginners and those with some experience. The classes take place every Tuesday during term time in the Knott Memorial Hall from 8 – 10pm. The teachers have endless patience and everyone has great fun. Find a partner and give it a try. Contacts: 0191 236 5878 ( Jenian School of Dancing) or 01661 853798 (local contact) Horsley Garden Club meets every third Monday each month from March to September 7:30 pm in The Crown and Anchor pub. We enjoy a varied programme of speakers and visits. New members and visitors always are welcome. Secretary Hazel Holliday: 01661 853919 Horsley WI meets every first Monday each month 7:30 pm in the WI hall at the west end of the village. We enjoy a wide variety of speakers and a delicious supper! New members and visitors are always welcome. Secretary Elizabeth Bramwell: 01661 853295 Horsley Book Club meets the first Friday of each month, 4 pm onwards in The Hearth cafe. New members and visitors are always welcome. Please contact Hazel Holliday for more details. 01661 853919 There are a wide variety of activities at the Hearth Arts Centre, please check on their website www.thehearth.co.uk Heddon on the Wall WI Heddon WI meets on the first Monday of the month at 7.00pm in the WI Hall. For further information please contact the President on 01661 854849 or Secretary on 01661 853365. Pilates - WI Hall Tuesday nights 7.45-8.45 contact Pat Waters for details pmwaters@btinternet.com Horsley Village Church - services every Sunday at 11.00am, prayer group every Thursday morning at 9.30-10.30, Messy Church for children on the last Sunday of the month 4.30 in The Hearth hall. Contact John Paul (Minister) for more information on jcp@uwclub.net or 0191 2674558. Uplifted women’s singing group - meets 2nd and 4th Wednesday evenings of the month (April - October Ovingham Church, November - March Horsley Village Church) 8.00-10.00pm. Come and sing for fun - no musical background required. For more information contact Christine Morrison on christine@hercomputer.org.uk or 01661 832296. Horsley Garden Club Meets every third Monday in the month from March to September in the Crown and Anchor pub at 7:30 pm. Visitors and new members are very welcome. Heddon Methodist Church The Sunday morning service is 10.30am. Toddler Group which meets Wednesdays at 2 - 3 pm. Elizabeth Cushion (minister) 01661 852 309. The Heddon Patchers, A quilting and patchwork group who meet every other Wednesday in the Women’s Institute at Heddon on the Wall. We have a tutor and can be
contacted through Ann Allsopp on 01661 853695. or on line at: allsopprayann@btopenworld.com Heddon Stitchers Anyone who enjoys needle or craft work of any variety is welcome and their expertise would be of interest to the group. Stitchers is a friendly self-help group and offer help (if required) to anyone who has not picked up a needle for years. Optional workshops are held on a regular basis. Occasionally a guest speaker will give a talk and/or demonstration on a particular technique. Trips are organised to local craft shops and exhibitions. Heddon Stitchers meet in the Knott Memorial Hall every Monday from 1.00 - 3.00 p.m. Contact: Ann Lockey - 01661 852832 or Alison Laker -01661 853798 Heddon Local History Group Come along – you may learn something about the area you live in or what your street was like before houses were built on the land. All meetings, unless otherwise stated, are held in the Methodist Chapel Hall on Monday evenings at 7.30 p.m. A nominal fee on the night covers the cost of the hall. All welcome. Contact: Brian Charlton
All are welcome, especially new starters – help will be given. The group meets in the Knott Memorial Hall. Every Monday, at 10.00 a.m. – 12 noon. Contact: Kaye Poole - 01661 852701 Keep Fit & Flexible 1 hour to spare on Wednesday mornings? Join us for gentle exercise to music. Improve your balance, flexibility, co-ordination and have fun at the same time. The class is aimed at the over 50s but younger people are most welcome. (KFA Registered teacher and Member of Exercise Professionals.) 10 - 11 a.m. in the Knott Memorial Hall. Contact: Pauline Wright 01661 853365 Toddlers Group If you are caring for a toddler or baby, why not come along to Heddon Methodist Church on Wednesdays
(during term time) from 1.30 – 3.00 p.m. It is an opportunity for the children to play and mix with others and for you to have a relaxing cup of tea. Everyone is very welcome. Contact: 01661 853403 01661 853403, 852186 or 852659 Throckley Drama Group The group has now been going since 1951 and over the years has performed dozens of one & three act plays. There are now new enthusiastic members of the group, who want to continue bringing entertainment to Heddon and neighbouring villages. New members are always welcome. Contact: Olive White - 0191 267 4827 If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
Heddon Art Group This is a small and friendly group of local people interested in developing their art skills. The range of expertise is wide. We meet on the first & third Wednesdays of each month except January in the W.I. Hall at 7.00 p.m. We have a resident tutor but also have some very interesting visits by professional artists. For further information about joining or spending an evening with us please see contact details below. We have an annual exhibition in October each year, which is well worth a visit. Contact: Win Warcup - 01661 853346 Email: win.heddon@hotmail.co.uk Ad Murum Singers A broad based mixed voice choir originally formed for special presentations in St. Andrew’s Church, but over the years widening its scope with a view to presenting concerts in other churches and venues to assist in fund raising. The choir aim to give three or four performances during the year. Rehearsals are held in Heddon Methodist Church Hall (during term time) on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 - 9.00 p.m. New members are always welcome. Contact: Margaret Bone 01661 852656 Heddon Scrabble Group Come along and have fun with words.
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Wylam & Ovingham What’s on In Ovingham Ovingham Reading Room What’s on In Ovingham Reading Room March/April - To book Ovingham Reading Room or have a look around please ring 0751 885 8275 or e-mail bookreadingroom@googlemail.com Prices range from £12.50 to £25 party, or half day £50 full day.
11th April, 9th May, 13th June. Guest speakers and fellowship for men of all ages.
Regular events in the Reading RoomMon. WI 7.30 pm 2nd Mon of month “ Line dancing 7.30pm 1st 3rd 4th Mon Tues. Toddlers play group 9.30am-11.30am term time Yoga 2.00pm-3.00pm “ term time “ Choir 7.30pm finishes end June until Sept. Wed. Exercise Class 9.30a.m. – 10.30a.m. Dance class sessions for dif ages 1.30pm – 7.30pm “ Craft Group 7.30 finishes Easter until Sept. Thurs. Drama 7.30pm finishes end of June until Sept Friday Butterflies Relaxation & Meditation every 2nd Thurs 6.30pm – 7.15pm Friday. Exercise class 9.30a.m-10.30 a.m. Adult Dance Class 7.30pm. – 9.30pm 1st Fri every month Film nights in the Reading Room usually last Frid in Month See notice outside Reading Room Sun. Dance class 7.30-8.30
Wylam Pre-school Playgroup Falcon Centre, Wylam. OFSTED registered playgroup for 2 to 4 year olds. Monday to Friday 9.10am to 12.10pm. For more information contact: Anna 07905059935.
All the above groups welcome new members. Easter Fair Sat. 31st March in the Reading Room. Entry 50p adults, children free (includes 1 drink tea/coffee). Decorated egg competition 50p per entry. Tombola, Raffle, cake stall, craft stalls Green Ovingham arranging children’s activities and of course Bacon Butties will be sold. The Badger Club, an out of school club. We operate from The Old School in Ovingham, Monday to Friday. Breakfast Club is from 7.30am until 9.00am and then After School Club from 3.00pm until 6.00pm. We take children from 4-14 years of age. We also operate a Holiday Club during the school holidays, from 8.00am until 6.00pm. For further information call: 01661 833327 or e mail thebadgerclub@btconnect.com. What’s On in Wylam? Wylam Methodist Church Centre Chapel Lane. Wylam NE41 8DF Bookings Secretary Brian Fulthorpe 9 Dene Road Wylam NE41 8EY Tel. 01661853818 email Fulthorpe4@BTInternet.com Methodist Women in Britain. Every other Tuesday at 2.30pm in the foyer March 6th and 20th April 3rd and 17th, May 1st Guest speakers and fellowship for ladies of all ages. Men at Home. Second Wednesday of each month in the foyer at 10.30 am (coffee at 10.15am) 14th March,
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Childrens Soft Play Sessions. (During school term times) in the hall. For children up to 4yrs. Monday morning 09.00 am to11.00am Thursday afternoon 1.00pm to 3.00pm
Wylam YOGA Yoga for all at Wylam Institute Ongoing Yoga courses each 1/2 term HATHA YOGA on Thursday evening 7- 8.30pm and Friday morning 9.45 - 11am Contact Maria Knight for booking form 01661 854636 Wylam tennis club: Club sessions: Tues 10-12am, Tues 7-9pm, Sun 2-5pm For further information please contact Anne Francis or Roy Kroese on: 01661 853607. Wylam Methodist Church Chapel lane, Wylam, NE41 8DZ Tel: 01661 853 075 “A welcome awaits you” Minister: Rev Jane Cook Tel: 01661 852 143 Sunday Worship 10.45am Children’s Church and Creche (5 separate age groups) All Age Service 3rd Sunday Sunday Special for younger children and their families. 1st Sunday of each month, 4.30pm (except May) Regular housegroups: Sunday evenings and Tuesdays Lunchtime midweek group Soft Play for babies and toddlers Monday Mornings and Thursday afternoons Joint Youth Activities Rock Solid (for Middle School Children) 4.15 pm Wednesdays BLT at Wylam First School 12.30pm Thursdays Details Richard Shrimpton 01661 852689 Women’s meetings Tuesday afternoon Soup and Pud lunch for over 70’s - 1st Wednesday: contact June Pattinson 01661 852165 Coffee/Tea served Saturday mornings. Rooms available for hire for meetings/ parties etc Contact Brian Fulthorpe 01661 853818 Wylam Institute Victorian building with two large halls and other smaller rooms for hire - ideal for wedding receptions and private parties (up to 200 people). We also have many classes each week, from children’s dance to adult Zumba, Art, Pilates, Yoga, Badminton, drama (senior and junior) carpet bowls, exercise for over 50s and monthly clubs like gardeners, camera and bridge. I could even supply a photo! TORA Ladies Kickboxing Kickboxing class in Wylam. Details are as follows; TORA Ladies Kickboxing. Monday’s 7.30pm – 8.30pm. All abilities. Wylam Institute.
Call Debbie 01661 852729 Wylam Amateur Dramatic Society Meets every Monday at the Wylam Institute 7.30pm. Next production: ‘Ladies in Retirement’ by Edward Percy and Reginald Denham. A Victorian thriller. April 26th, 27th and 28th at 7.30 pm in Wylam Institute. Admission £6 (£5 concessions). For more details of the Society, please contact Angus Palmer 01661 853786 Wylam Railway Museum Wylam Railway Museum is located in the Falcon Centre, Falcon Terrace, Wylam. The Museum is open to the public during Library hours at the following times: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. 5.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Wylam W.I. Meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month in Wylam Institute at 7.30pm. All VISITORS VERY WELCOME. For further details, please contact: Mrs Robin Piette: 01661 853727 Wylam Duplicate Bridge Group Meets every 3rd Monday of the month at 7.00pm in the Wylam Institute. New Members Welcome Contact Roger Turner: 01661 852582 Wylam St Oswin’s Church of England Church Road Wylam NE41 8AT Weekly servicesSunday 8.00 am & 9.45 am. Thursday 9.30 am. During the vacancy following the
retirement of Rev David Cant, baptisms, weddings, funerals and services are as usual. Contact the church wardens. Tel 01661 853254. Weekly services - Sunday 8.00am & 9.45am including Sunday school every second Sunday. For further details contact Reverend David Cant Tel: 01661 853254. Wylam Camera Club @ The Wylam InstituteEvery other Wednesday 7.30pm Contact Jack Telford 0191 413 3489 Ovingham Websites of Interest. www.ovinghamreadingroom.org.uk www.ovinghamgoosefair.org.uk www.bridgeendcc.org If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
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Blooming Outstanding for Wylam Resident It’s been called the secret of success – now a former Education Adviser and OFSTED inspector from Newcastle is making a name for herself teaching it to schools. Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) is the name given to subtle ways in which very successful people differ from those who are just average – and Helen Walker is using her skills to help teachers engage and motivate pupils to enhance their progress.
Helen, from Wylam, worked 27 years as a primary school teacher, a head teacher, OFSTED inspector and a school improvement advisor in Newcastle. Now at the helm of her own leadership consultancy Bloom and Grow, she is fast becoming a leading proponent of NLP and recently delivered a highly-lauded session on developing outstanding teaching and learning at the 2011 NLP Conference in London in November. “Many people have dreams and aspirations which are never fulfilled because life gets in the way. I teach school leaders’ techniques to develop aspiration, resilience and optimism, which are commonly used by the most successful people in our society, to help them overcome hurdles and become strong and resourceful.
Helen (left) with teacher Claire Redpath and some of the boys from Walkergate Primary who have taken part in the Change Chimps programme.
“These are great techniques in any walk of life, but in the classroom, whether as a teacher or as a pupil they are invaluable, and can mean the difference between towering success and failure,” she said. One example where Helen’s been very successful in inspiring success is at Walkergate Primary School, in Newcastle, where adoption of her ideas are beginning to show spectacular results in engaging boys’ writing in Year 6. The boys are thoroughly engaged and motivated to learn, with fantastic behaviour in class. Helen also runs a not-for-profit company called Change Chimps which can access grants to engage pupils and families to help raise standards in literacy and numeracy standards. In turn, pupils can build aspiration, resilience and optimism and early leadership skills. All profits from sales of Change Chimps materials are ploughed back into projects for children. Walkergate Primary’s newly appointed Head teacher, Debi Bailey and year six teacher Claire Redpath accompanied Helen to the London conference where her session Building aspiration, resilience and optimism amongst the disengaged received accolades from school professionals across the UK. “Improving schools, tackling behaviour issues and engaging learners and families are at the top of Education Secretary Michael Gove’s agenda for schools. Our feedback to date suggests our programme really works. Bloom and Grow offers help that works for schools and school clusters and the principles we use are just as applicable in other workplaces too.” Media Enquiries Contact: Keith Newman 07814 397951
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? n o s ’ t wha What’s on at Stocksfield Community Centre (S.I.C.A) weekly in March and April 2012 Monday 9.15am - 12.15pm Playgroup *term time 2.00pm - 3.30pm Badminton 6.30pm - 7.45pm Low impact aerobics/ Body toning 8.00pm -10.00pm Badminton Tuesday 9.15am - 12.15pm Playgroup *term time 9.30am - 11.30am Computer Club 10.00am - 2.00pm Social Centre 6.00pm - 7.00pm Step Class - all levels Wed 9.15am - 12.15pm Playgroup *term time 9.30am - 11.30am Parent & Toddlers *term time 9.30am - 11.30am Digital Photography Club Thursday 9.15am - 12.15pm Playgroup *term time 6.45pm - 7.45pm Pilates using Stability Balls 7.00pm - 9.00pm Bridge (1st & 3rd Thursdays) 8.00pm - 10.00pm Badminton Friday 9.30am - 10.30am Low impact aerobics (with crèche) for legs,bums & tums! Saturday 10.00am - 11.30am Feet First Dance Class *term time Sunday - 11.00am Edgewell Christian Church *Easter Holidays are Mon 2nd April to Fri 13th April. For further information please contact Beth at SICA on 01661 842346 or email admin@sica.org.uk SiCA is located on Mount View Terrace,Stocksfield (near the Railway Station) Stocksfield Community Association is a Registered Charity no.1139996 and is a Company Limited by Guarantee. 7468137 Registered at Companies House, England
What’s on at Stocksfield Community Centre (S.I.C.A) in April 2012 Monday 2nd Mon 2nd 7.30pm Parish Council Meeting Stocksfield W.I. Wed 4th 7.30pm Tues 10th 7.30pm SCA Board Meeting Stocksfield Local Wed 11th 7.30pm History Society 7.30pm Hedley W.I. Jumble Sale Sat 14th 1.30pm Mon 16th 7.30pm Annual Parish Meeting Plants & Gardens Society Tues 17th 7.30pm Sat 21st 10am-4pm Tynedale Spinners & Weavers Heart of Tyne W.I. Wed 25th 7.00pm Dates for your diaries May 2012 Fri 4th 9.30am-1pm Digital TV Switchover morning Fri 11th Prudhoe Community Band Wed 16th 9.30am Barnardo’s Coffee Morning Sat 19th 10am-4pm Spinners & Weavers Gathering Thurs 24th 7.30pm Hexham Gathering Stocksfield Plants & Sat 26th 10.30am Gardens Society Plant Sale and coffee For further information please contact Beth at SICA on 01661 842346 or email admin@sica.org.uk SiCA is located on Mount View Terrace,Stocksfield (near the Railway Station) Stocksfield Community Association is a Registered Charity no.1139996 and is a Company Limited by Guarantee 7468137 Registered at Companies House, England
Stocksfield Fords - Richard Hannam If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email:office@tynevalleyexpress
Youth Theatre wants actors! When she moved to Stocksfield last year, theatre director Kiz Crosbie, thought she had found peace away from her hectic working life in theatres and schools. But eight months on, she had set up Tyne Valley Youth Theatre (TVYT) less than a mile from her village home. “It seemed an ideal opportunity,” Kiz explains. “The Parish Council had researched what local young people were interested in, and a youth theatre seemed ideal. I’m used to travelling miles for projects so I’m delighted to be working on my home turf.”
It keeps me energised in every project.” She has directed more than thirty plays with young actors, from ‘Fame!’ at Gala Theatre, Durham , ‘The Twits’ for Live Theatre, Newcastle and ‘Billy Elliot’ with a cast in Warwickshire.
Kiz specialises in theatre for young people – she has worked with groups as far afield as Kenya directed projects for the Royal Shakespeare Company, Live Theatre, Northern Stage, Shakespeare Schools Festival and Maverick Television to name a few. “My career has been very varied,” she says. “But that’s how I like it.
TVYT accepts young people of all skills levels and experience and the company doesn’t audition its members. “It’s very important,” she says. “That all our members feel they contribute to the group. A theatre company is strongest when it embraces the creativity and ideas of everyone involved.”
What does she make of the local talent? “We had TVYT taster workshops just before Christmas, which were so much fun. I’d heard great things about the young people here and I wasn’t disappointed. The talent in the Tyne Valley is so exciting.”
She recently helped out with the Stocksfield Players’ latest performances. “They were kind enough to let me publicise TVYT to the younger cast members as well as the audiences.” Even though TVYT will be their competition? “Not really,” Kiz says. “TVYT is theatre-making specifically for young people. If anything it’s like a training ground. There’s no reason why they can’t be involved with TVYT and other local groups.” TVYT are currently recruiting new members. Full details of the company and its activities (including the half term project) can be found on their website: www.tvyouththeatre.org TVYT is supported by Broomley and Stocksfield Parish Council and Stocksfield Community Association.
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Playgroup... a Stocksfield Gem! Many of us have strong memories from our early education. For me, one is playing under an enormous green table (which I discovered many years later was a snooker table) at my Playgroup. What will these young children at Stocksfield Playgroup’s Christmas party remember in ten or twenty years’ time? The broad smile on Mummy’s face as she is handed a decorated Christmas plate? The excitement, or perhaps nerves, as Santa appeared from the kitchen? Or the rows of glowing iPhones recording proceedings? Whatever these children do remember, this is clearly a very important time in their young lives. Stocksfield Playgroup accepts children from two years old and for many it is their first independent experience and the age they start to make friends. “Working with this age group is very rewarding,” says Diane Hinchcliffe, one of the Playgroup’s leaders. “It is lovely to see a child who may
have been unsure or upset when they first come develop in confidence as time goes on, and to watch their personalities develop.” The Playgroup occupies a suite of three rooms which are each split into various areas including: arts and crafts, cosy/ book corner, ICT area, roleplay, physical area, kitchen/ snack room with lots of floor space left for small world play with cars, trains, dolls or animals. Ofsted rated the Playgroup GOOD in their November 2011 report and, as one mother comments, “there is a lovely, calm atmosphere. The staff gave us an enthusiastic welcome and my two year old daughter was instantly at home here.” The children are also offered themed activities to incorporate their interests, as Diane Hinchcliffe explains, “If Harry likes dinosaurs, we not only give him dinosaurs to play with but we can read
dinosaur stories, do counting activities based on dinosaurs, make dinosaur cookies and use the computer to find dinosaur facts, stories and videos.” The Playgroup also has a strong relationship with Broomley First School and shares activities throughout the year, including several visits to the school. This helps children tremendously in making their transition to pre-school, and then onto reception, as smooth as possible.
many people said ‘hello’ or waved. I believe that Playgroup offers a vital and unique service to the village.”
The Playgroup staff understand the important role they play in
Stocksfield Playgroup is situated at Stocksfield Community Centre, Mount View Terrace, Stocksfield.
children’s lives. “My husband once said on a walk through Stocksfield that it was like being out with the Q u e en,” Diane says. “ S o
After the final notes of ‘Jingle Bells’, with Santa safely back in the kitchen getting changed, the children are released into their parents’ open arms. The room is full of smiles and chatter and there can be no doubt that this Playgroup is a highly cherished asset in this village community.
Places are available from January 2012. Sessions are 9.15am – 12.15pm Monday-Thursday during term time and fees are £10 per session. For more details, to register your child or to arrange a visit, please contact the Community Centre Manager, Beth Gascoigne, on: 01661 842346 or admin@sica.org.uk
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A BRAND NEW CARE FACILITY EASTGATE MANOR
SET IN THE TRANQUIL VILLAGE OF MICKLEY SQUARE, EASTGATE MANOR PROVIDES FIRST CLASS CARE WITH LUXURIOUS AND MODERN SURROUNDINGS. Quality Support Eastgate Manor offers a person centred approach to care and provides a range of services including Residential, Nursing and Memory Care (Dementia). Our dedicated Memory Care Suite incorporates the latest assistive technology and promotes an active and enjoyable life. Luxurious Style Eastgate Manor understands the importance of socialising and has created an environment ideal for this purpose. The in-house bar and cafe area offers the perfect opportunity to socialise and meet new people.
Mickley Square Stocksfield Northumberland NE43 7LY Telephone 01661 845 000 Email eastgate@execcaregroup.co.uk
Come and experience Eastgate Manor for yourself We understand that making the right decision when it comes to care can be a difficult choice to make and so, we would like to invite you to come and stay with us as our guest to experience the food, activities and the care that is provided here at Eastgate Manor. You can then rest assured you have made the right decision. *Availability will depend on individual care needs assessment.
www.eastgatemanor.co.uk
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Corbridge Corbridge Circle Dancing Most Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. Corbridge Parish Hall, St Helen’s Street. Beginners (men and women) are welcome to join the circle dance class where you will be gently guided by an experienced teacher through the steps of traditional and modern dances from all over the world. No prior experience is required and you don’t need a partner. It’s good for your health and it’s fun! For details please phone Liz on 0191 2813927. Great Wall of China Trek How far would you go for your local Marie Curie Hospice, Newcastle. For those of you seeking a fundraising challenge that takes you to new places trekking along a piece of China’s history, join us on our Great Wall of China Trek, from 7th – 15th September 2012. For more information please contact the Marie Curie Fundraising Office on: 0191 2191241 Musical Minis - Fun Pre School Music Sessions Corbridge Parish Hall Fridays at 1pm & 2pm Debbie Caygill Musical Minis Newcastle T: 0191 388 7748 www.musicalminis.co.uk Nominated Most Outstanding Activity Leader & Best National Baby & Toddler Development Activity – Whats On 4 Awards 2010 & 2011 To register your vote please visit http://www. whatson4littleones.co.uk/awards-voting.asp Follow me on twitter & facebook www.facebook.com/MusicalMinisNCL www.twitter.com/MusicalMinisNE
St Andrews Church Church Services SUNDAYS - St Andrews 8:00 Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays 9:30 Parish Communion with crèche, Junior Church & Children’s corner 1st, 2nd 4th & 5th Sundays 9:30 All Age informal Worship: usually but not always 3rd Sunday 6:00 Evensong 3rd Sunday Holy Communion] St Oswald’s Halton 9:15 Holy Communion 1st Sunday WEDNESDAYS10:00 Holy Communion at St Andrews Morning Prayer is said each weekday at 8:45 Corbridge Health Walks Walks are lead by trained volunteers. A choice of two walks, lasting about 1-2 hrs departing from Coigns Corner at the corner of Middle Street on each Wednesday at 10.00 am. For more information contact the co-ordinator, on 01434 613227 or 01434 613227. Corbridge and District Riding Club Originally formed in 1973 and competes successfully at National level. Membership is open to anyone aged 17 or over. Benefits of membership include access to subsidised training in a wide variety of disciplines – hopefully to suit the needs of both competitive and non competitive members. Throughout the year there is a varied programme of training and competitions in flatwork (including dressage to music), cross country and show jumping for all levels. Fun rides, talks, residential weekends
and demonstrations are also on the agenda. Contact: www.corbridgerc.co.uk for further information. Corbridge Methodist Church Services: Sunday Service: 10.30 am House Fellowship at 7.30 p.m. each Tuesday from September to June for Bible Study and general discussion. Venue varies so ring 01434 632781 If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
Learn
KARATE
Confidence - Fitness - Achieve No Karate suit needed, just casual sportswear. Everyone welcome. If you think you’re too old or over weight to learn then think again! You do not need to be super fit to enjoy Karate so please do not be put off, we look forward to welcoming you.
Every Friday Parish Hall, St Helens Street, Corbridge Karate Kids Aged 5+ 5.00pm - 6.00pm £5 Seniors 16+ 6.00pm - 7.00pm £5 BLACK BELT Level 2 Instructor, Fully Insured, CRB Certified
For more information contact Wayne: 07787 145497 44
This Spring Bring your garden to life with a handmade windtoy.
John Burton’s unique designs to assemble and paint. An ideal gift both as kits and finished toys. Introductory offers now at:
www.windtoykits.com
Spanish and Swiss Artists for Spring in Balman Gallery
Spanish Seas
Vilamont was born near Alicante, Spain. Landscapes and seascapes are his passion. Their scale and subject matter make them popular with lovers of the Northumbrian coastline who are drawn to these panoramic, dramatic scenes naturally. Well exhibited in Russia, Argentina, France, Italy and Spain, this is the perfect time to buy one of his paintings, as he’s new to Britain.
Haunting Figures
Christine Seiterle’s work is also widely exhibited internationally, in Paris, Switzerland and London. Born in Switzerland, she studied Design, Painting and Drawing there and in Austria and Germany. Christine lives between Switzerland and Paris. Behind these everyday figures, memories, dreams and imagination shimmer. The superb use of light creates a fresh, yet dream-like quality, perfect for spring. These haunting figures intrigue and have a spiritual quality best seen, so please pop in.
Scenes Of Sea Coal And Colliery Life Equally gritty are Alastair Lovett’s seascapes. Durham-born Alastair is fascinated by this region. His original oils capture the atmosphere of the North East coast, with its cold, washed grey skies, relics of colliery life and busy beaches.
These emotive scenes appeal to those interested in the North East’s industrial heritage in particular and sell well.
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Gallery lovers going into Newcastle can catch up on fine art as they sip cappuccino at Cafe Mal, Balman’s latest satellite gallery in Malmaison hotel’s quayside cafe. And lovers of buying art online have our new website to look forward to: www.balmanbydesign.com coming later in spring.
feature both figures and cityscapes, often a lone, vulnerable figure backed up against a wall. Tim takes his textured backgrounds from North East cities and towns, taking the abstracts from the back alleys, and putting them in the gallery to be contemplated out of context. Tim is a welcome addition to the Gallery, rapidly rising in popularity.
Perfect For Spring Makeovers: Sue Bulmer
Sue Bulmer grew up on a North Eastern farm and creates originals, prints, cards and textiles for home and kitchen. Her black and white works have a warm, homey, vintage feel. ‘Living in a 200 year old cottage, I find a wealth of material to spark my creativity. I love my kitchen and find it an inspirational place to be: old pots and pans, coffee, tea pots and a rack of old cook books, perfect for new ideas.’ Sue’s cards start at just £2.50.
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Fresh air from Spain and Switzerland is sweeping into Balman Gallery, via Spanish artist, Vilamont, Swiss artist, Christine Seiterle and rising UK artists Tim Cornley, Alastair Lovett and Sue Bulmer from the North East.
Gritty Cities
Balman Gallery, Town Hall Buildings, Princes Street, Corbridge, Northumberland NE45 5AD. T: 01434 634 629 Monday-Saturday 10am - 5pm www.balmangallery.com info@balmangallery.com
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Cafe Mal, Malmaison Hotel, Newcastle Quayside. NE1 3DX T: (0191) 245 5000 www.malmaison.com
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Tim Cornley’s work, influenced as it is by Banksy and Bacon, takes a grittier approach than Seiterle’s or Vilamont’s. His paintings
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Hexham what’s on? The Rotary Club of Hexham Meet every Monday lunch time at 12:30pm at the Beaumont Hotel in Hexham. This is an active club whose members organise a variety of social and fundraising events in support of a variety of charities. New members are always welcome.” George Aitchison Club Council Member The Rotary Club of Hexham Tel No: 01434 600 474 Mob No: 07711 422 021 Hexham TinyTalk baby signing classes at West End Methodist Church Hexham Mondays 10-11 suitable for babies 0-2 ( older siblings welcome at no extra cost). Learn to communicate with your baby before they can talk through the use of signs and gestures and singing popular nursery rhymes. Also time to relax and have a cup of tea/coffee all included in the price. Contact Helen Angel 07734 209304 or email helenan@tinytalk.co.uk or visit www.tinytalk.co.uk/helenan for more details Tynedale U3A This is an organisation comprising self help groups (including walking ,literature, botany, languages, Tai Chi, Museum visits etc) for the retired and semi retired, who come together to share their skills, experience, and knowledge. They meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 2pm in the Trinity Methodist Church hall, Beaumont Street, Hexham. The groups meet in members’ homes or the Trinity Hall. All welcome!! Hexham Brass Band We are a group of brass musicians who have recently formed a new brass band in Hexham. We practise in the West End Methodist church in Hexham on Tuesday evenings from 7.15pm. Anyone who plays a brass instrument (or even percussion) would be welcome to come along to join us. The contact number for us is “Sue” 07811 175849. Music and Movement classes for pre-school children. Join us for affordable half-hour sessions on Fridays: Beaumont Street, Hexham. Please contact Sheelagh on Tel: 01434 601017 to book your place. First session free! Hexham Youth Initiative Provides projects and opportunities for local young people. Based at Hexham Community Centre. Contact Keda Norma; 01434 607350. Hexham Partnership of Schools Extended Services Aims to provide a comprehensive support network for young people and their families. Contact Christine Pearson: 01434 610357. Queen Elizabeth High School – Youth Theatre Meets all year round on Wednesday 4:30 – 6:30pm and
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is open to all young people aged 13 – 21. Contact Emily Macdonald 01434 610365. The QEHS Charter Restaurant and Conference Centre Licensed for Weddings, parties, concerts, meetings to the Hire of School Premises. Offers excellent facilities at very Wark Town Hall & Mechanics The Stu Brown Sextet reasonable prices. Contact Carole Institute. Tickets: £7/ £6 – Raymond Scott Project Brown for restaurant bookings – Wark, nr Hexham, NE48 3LH An evening of wacky, hyperDebbie Graham now deals with all Bookings: 01434 230 250 animated, eyeball-popping ‘cartoon conference bookings jazz’ widely recognisable for it’s Trifle Gathering Productions – 01434 610341. use in the Looney Tunes cartoons A Curious Evening of Trance and from the 1940’s onwards and, more Hire of Queen Elizabeth High Rap with The Ogden Sisters recently, in Ren and Stimpy, and The School Premises Is there anybody not quite there?.. Simpsons. The show celebrates the Facilities and outside playing areas A new comedy theatre show…. music’s composer and opens with are available to hire during the direct from the other side, in a short documentary film about this evening and at weekends. Contact which brave observers will dress little known bandleader, composer Debbie Graham: in victorian bonnets or facial hair and inventor – Raymond Scott.. 01434 610341. and join the world famous Ogden Friday 11th May 7.30pm QEHS Community & Leisure Sisters at their table as they present Wark Town Hall & Mechanics Programme the marvellous, the mysterious and Institute £7/ £6 conc Adult Learning Classes the spiritually peculiar. A deliriously Wark, nr Hexham, NE48 3LH Contact Karen Armstrong-Jordan absurd and witty show by Nick Bookings: 01434 230 250 01434 610322 Sunday 13th May 7.30pm Whitby (Smack the Pony, Eddie Hadrian’s Wall Rotary Club Corbridge Parish Hall Izzard) where audiences voyage Meet every Thursday at 7:30pm at to the physical realm, through the £7.50/ £4child/ £20 family the RAFA Club in Hexham. This is a etheric region and right up to the St Helens Street, Corbridge small group of enthusiastic Rotary brass knocker of a portal door. NE45 5BE members who are lively and not Saturday 5th May 7.30pm Bookings: 07500 822 784 excessively formal and are on the Newbrough Town Hall lookout for new members. They are £6/ £5 conc £4 child £16 family If your a community organisation and all relatively young (average age is Newbrough, nr Hexham NE47 5AR would like a free listing in this section, under 40) the club organise several email: office@tynevalleyexpress Bookings: 01434 674 162 events a year of which the most popular is the Curry night every autumn. Hexhamshire W.I. Whitley Chapel Hall. 1st Wed in month. Always have a speaker, night’s out/BBQ’s etc. Thoroughly good time. For further details, contact: Vivien 01434 605189L Ailie Cohen Puppet Maker – Cloud Man A truly delightful and captivating show featuring a blend of puppetry, storytelling, sumptuous visuals and original music - for 4 – 7yrs and their families. Cloudia has always had her head in the clouds. A cloud expert, she has dreamt all her life of seeing a Cloud Man – extremely rare creatures who live high in the sky. Join Cloudia and follow the clues to the top of the mountain where you might see something really special. Saturday 17th March 3pm Newbrough Town Hall £7 full/ £5 child/ £19 family Newbrough, nr Hexham NE47 5AR Bookings: 01434 674162 Reg Meuross & Bethany Porter Songs About Tom, Dick and Harry A unique new show from gifted singer/songwriter Reg Meuross and cellist Bethany Porter that looks at some of the events that influenced the lives of extraordinary men and women through history. Hexham/ Waitrose Songs about luminaries such as TOM (The poet Thomas Chatterton), DICK (Turpin), and HARRY (Farr, Tyne Green the 1st World War soldier, shot by Tyne Mills Industrial Estate, We his comrades for ‘cowardice’) are Are Hexham, NE46 1XL Here accompanied by guitar, dulcimer Tel: 01434 600920 A69 and cello. Saturday 24th March 7.30pm
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I’m in Pain Can Chiropractic help me?
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1st visit to include:
Verbal consultation Computerised posture analysis Physical examination
All for ONLY £32 Usually £50
(offer expires 30th March 2012)
Signs that indicate your body is not working properly: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Lower back/hip/leg pain Neck pain/shoulder/arm pain Headaches Pins and needle/tingling/ numbness in leg or arm 5. Mid back pain/between the shoulder blades 6. Lack of energy/tiredness 7. Sleeping difficulties
If you are experiencing any of the above signs of dysfunction in your body, call us now to see how we can help.
Take Advantage of our March Special Offer! Call Now:
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Tel: 01434 605688 www.familychiropractic.uk.com
Hexham Queen’s Hall March Theatre
Northern Bites - Hide Wednesday 14 March 2.30pm Carina Rodney’s new comedy set in a remote area of Northumberland; bird watching turns competitive when a rare spotting raises the stakes. As the weather closes in, tension mounts, and twitching gets out of hand. Tickets: £8.00 / £6.50 (Friends / benefit conc / student) Tapas & a Ticket: £12.50 / £11.00 (Friends / benefit conc / student) Green Room, Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Classical
Hexham & District Music Society presents- Christine Cairns (mezzo soprano) Wednesday 14 March 7.45pm Christine Cairns will now be performing as a replacement for the London Conchord Ensemble who are unable to appear. Mezzo soprano Christine Cairns will be joined by students from the Birmingham Conservatoire for a mixed recital of songs and operatic numbers. Tickets: £12.50 / £6.00 (student) / £1.00 (schoolchildren) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Children’s / Theatre
balletLORENT presents Underneath the Floorboards Thursday 15 March 10.30am & 1.30pm Filled with original songs and beautiful movement, parents can relax while children get to interact with performers and story. Suitable for ages 0 - 5yrs Tickets: £5.00, All ages. Hexham Library Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Film
Film in the Theatre Stepping Out (PG) Thursday 15 March 8.00pm Liza Minnelli plays the role of a has-been Broadway performer who gives tap lesson to a group of misfits who, through their dance classes, bond and realise what they can achieve. Also stars Julie Walters and Shelley Winters. Tickets: £4.00 / £3.00 (Friend / Film Club Member) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Jazz
Jazz Club Thursday 15 March 8.00pm Play along with the rhythm section of the evening in an informal atmosphere then sit back and enjoy the guests. Tickets: £3.00 on the door. Under 18s free. Exchange Café, Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Tribute / Rock
Classic Clapton Friday 16 March 8.00pm Classic Clapton is the World’s No.1 Eric Clapton Tribute Band. Front man Mike Hall not only looks like Eric Clapton but he sings and plays guitar like him too! Tickets: £12.50 - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Exhibition
Rosie Villiers – Stuart Saturday 17 March – Saturday 21 April Rosie Villiers – Stuart is a landscape and wildlife painter, living and working in the North Pennines. She exhibits widely in England and Scotland. Working mostly in watercolour, her inspiration is the landscape and wildlife around her home – bare hills, lush valleys and summer hay meadows. Gallery Two, Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
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Jazz
Busker - Saturday 17 March 8.00pm Five experienced musicians from Hexham and Newcastle have joined forces to create Busker. Voice, sax, guitar, double bass and percussion combine to create a highly original sound that blends jazz, folk, blues, reggae and other styles Tickets: £6.00 / £5.00 (conc) Exchange Café, Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Opera / Children’s
Opera North presents Cautionary Tales! Musical theatre for naughty children Tuesday 20 March 6.30pm Opera North’s witty adaptation of Hilaire Belloc’s deliciously macabre Cautionary Tales for Children was a big hit with audiences and critics when it was first premiered in March 2011. Suitable for 5-10 year olds and their families. Tickets: £10.00 / £7.00 (children under 16) £24 (family) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Theatre
European Arts Company presents The Dumb Waiter & The Lover by Harold Pinter Thursday 22 March 7.30pm A double-bill of Harold Pinter’s classic short, black-comedies from the company that brought us Chekhov’s Shorts. These two witty dramas by the Nobel prizewinner still pack the same punch as when first written. Thrillingly powerful with an air of mystery, they will keep you on the edge of your seat. Tickets: £13.00 / £11.00 (Friends / benefit conc / student) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
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Tickets: £4.00 Pay on the door The Exchange Café and Foyer Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Comedy
Big Owl Comedy Club Friday 30 March 8.30pm Laugh your socks off with some of the best comedy on the national and international circuit. Tickets: £8.50 / £4.00 (student) Exchange Café, Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
April Jazz
Jazz in the Café - Paul Edis Sextet Thursday 5 April 8.00pm Pianist Paul Edis is one of the key figures in the group of young jazz musicians to have emerged in the North East over the past five years. As well as being a superb player, he’s also a fine composer, and has written a crop of intriguing original tunes specifically for this sextet. Tickets: £7.50 / £6.00 (Friends) / £4.00 (student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Theatre
Reform Theatre Company presents Like a Virgin- Written by Gordon Steel Wednesday 11 April 7.30pm This powerful play with music is a hilarious romp through teenage life. Two sixteen year olds, besotted with Madonna, attempt to write pop songs with hairbrushes in hand. Tickets: £13.00 / £11.00 (Friends / benefit conc / student) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Classical
Tynedale Music Festival Saturday 24 March 7.00pm Since 1904, the Tynedale Music Festival has offered musicians of all ages from across the north east the opportunity to meet and compete in many different musical categories. Evening Concert Tickets: £2.50 Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Opera
Opera della Luna presents The Merry Widow Tuesday 27 March 7.30pm Opera della Luna returns to Hexham with a new production of Lehár’s classic operetta, The Merry Widow. In a sparkling new English translation, this imaginative staging captures the glamour and decadence of turn of the century Paris while infusing the production with Opera della Luna’s trademark wit. Tickets: £14.50 / £13.00 (Friends) / £9.00 (student) - Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Theatre
Northern Bites - The Starship Now Arriving At …….. Wed 28 March 2.30pm & 7.30pm An everyday story of brotherly love, infidelity and obsessions as two men wait on a lonely park bench for the woman that never comes - or does she? Tickets: £8.00 / £6.50 (Friends / benefit conc / student) Tapas & a Ticket: £12.50 / £11.00 (Friends / benefit conc / student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre
Dance
Swing Café - CANCELLED Thursday 29 March 7.00pm Sizzling sounds and jazzy rhythms to accompany an evening of dancing.
For all enquiries contact the Queen’s Hall Box Office on: 01434 652477 or book online at: www.queenshall.co.uk
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Hexham Strive to be Happy! After last year’s ‘annus horibilis’ for so many different reasons and for so many people, this year more than ever it is vital to focus on something positive, different, and meaningful in our lives. With endless financial woes from redundancies to lost pensions and everything in between, last year was quite simply a struggle from beginning to end. In my practice this year more than any other, I have witnessed stress levels amongst patients sky rocketing into uber space, born from anxiety about what the future holds to feelings of despair as a lifestyle so easily afforded before was slowly and surely slipping away. The future has however always been uncertain, just not with the heighted universal sensitivity we have about it now. Planning ahead is almost met with a sense of futility as material gains are so easily swept away and with in the blink of an eye. So with this ever present sense of hopelessness what can we do to change our reality?
Importantly, learn to let go. Let go of that exhausting despair for your losses and for the things you cannot change, let go of the ‘what ifs’ and ‘what could have been’ and focus instead on life’s endless possibilities. Life is too short to live with regret and disappointment. Fulfilment in life is taking stock of what you do have, and being thankful every day for each blessing bestowed upon you however small it seems. Don’t trap yourself into a struggle of maintaining a lifestyle that leaves no time for the things that really matter. It is time for simplification, a time to take back control of your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Use this time of material austerity to do something you want to do rather than because you feel you have to. Consolidate and pare down to what is essential to life. Live your life for now. Love your spouse with passion. Make time for your children. Be grateful for the communion you share as a family around the table, or whilst watching a favourite Disney film. Declare your love for each other today and every day; don’t wait for another time that might never arrive. Hang ‘Desiderata’ behind the loo door and read it daily, let it become a mantra for living your life. Let us use our collective consciousness to riselike a phoenix from the ashes, design a new destiny, an extraordinary destiny created out of extraordinary events.
To quote the beautiful ‘Desiderata’: “Remember, with all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, the world is still a beautiful place. Strive to be happy”.
Chiropractor & Wellness Educator familychiropractic@btconnect.com www.familychiropractic.uk.com
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March 2012 Cherryburn Station Bank, Mickley Nr Stocksfield, NE43 7DD Tel: 01661 843276 Saturday 11 & 17 March Just Add Water - National Science & Engineering Week 11am - 3pm We’ll be hosting a range of science experiments, demonstrations, walks and talks as part of this national celebration. Become a water wizard just like Lord Armstrong and you can experiment with the power of water. Walk around Tumbleton Lake and join our volunteers at each water station for interactive fun. Tel: 01669 620333 ext 5 * Thursday 15 March Behind the Scenes: Hydro Walk 11am – 1pm Cragside was the first place in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Join our Head Engineer, Robin Wright, on a guided walk as he delves in to the fascinating world of water and hear about the way Lord Armstrong harnessed the natural power of water to power the electric light bulb. Normal admission charges apply. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Please wear stout footwear. This walk covers challenging and rugged terrain with steps and slopes over a considerable distance. Booking Essential tel: 0844 249 1895 £15 per person includes a buffet lunch. Saturday 24 March Get in to bushcraft - Family Taster Courses 11am – 3pm Want adventure in the outdoors? Discover the natural world for yourself in the stunning setting of the Cragside woodland. This one day workshop will give you an insight in to the world of campcraft and outdoor living skills. You will learn about shelter, fire, water and food in a woodland environment while having a great fun day out. Meet at Blackburn car park. Ask for directions from a member of staff on arrival. £15 National Trust members £20 NonTrust Booking Essential, tel: 0844 249 1895 Saturday 31 March & daily until 15 April Water Wizards 11.30am – 3pm Get hands on and experiment with the power of water, just like Lord Armstrong. Take a walk around Tumbleton Lake and stop at the water stations for interactive fun. Gibside Nr Rowlands Gill, Burnopfield Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 6BG Tel: 01207 541820 Friday 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 March Gibside Beer Garden 6pm – 9pm Back by popular demand, probably the biggest family beer garden in Gateshead. Relax outdoors with crackling log braziers or in our cosy pub after a busy week with local Wylam ales, mulled wines, seasonal snacks while the kids enjoy our play area. Free entry! Suitable for families Free entry. Please do not bring your own alcohol. Tel: 01207 541820 Saturday 3 & 17 March Farmers Market 10ap – 3pm Tasty seasonal produce and high quality crafts from local farmers and producers on the first and third Saturday every month. Enjoy a range of food, drink and craft stalls, plus tasting and cooking demos. Free entry! Tel: 01207 541820 Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 March, also 10 & 11, 17 & 18 March Lambing Weekends 11am – 3pm Meet newborn lambs from Gibside’s farm and take a peek at some tiny hatched chicks. Families welcome Tel: 01207 541820 First Sundays in the month 4 March Music and Evensong in Gibside Chapel 1.30pm – 3.45pm Enjoy a local singer and pianist play in Gibside’s grand Georgian Chapel followed by a
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traditional Anglican service (3pm). FREE. Tel: 01207 541820 Sunday 4 March Anglican Service 3pm – 4pm A traditional Anglican service in Gibside’s grand Georgian Chapel on the first Sunday of every month. Free entry! Dress warmly as Gibside Chapel can be very cold in winter. Stairclimber available. Suitable For Families Assistance Dogs only are welcome. Booking not needed tel: 01207 541820 7, 10, 22 & 24 March 11am – 12noon Join our ongoing programme of health walks on the first Wednesday and the third Thursday of each month. Exercise at an easy pace with a friendly group and the support of specially trained volunteers whilst exploring Gibside. All are welcome. Tel: 01207 541820 Saturday 10 March Seasonal Gardener’s Walk 2.30pm – 4pm Discover what’s new in the garden - from blooming plants to growing tips - and the latest progress on restoring Gibside to its 18th century glory. Suitable for all the family. tel: 01207 541820 Sunday 18 March Mothers Day at Gibside 11ap – 3pm Give mum a break from the housework and have a go at spring cleaning Gibside Chapel instead! Or enjoy a walk and treat her to a special three course Mothers’ Day lunch. Kids can make natural crafty gifts too. £15 per person. Booking tel: 01207 541820 Sunday 18 March Music in the Chapel 2pm – 3pm Enjoy the fantastic acoustics of Gibside Chapel for live music from local performers and choirs inspired by a seasonal theme on the third Sunday of every month. tel: 01207 541820 Saturday 25 March Wildlife Wander 2.30pm – 4pm Wander with our wildlife expert for tips on tracking down Gibside’s more elusive wildlife. tel: 01207 541820 for more details* Saturday 31 March Spring Wedding Fair 11am - 3pm Get ideas for your Big Day in our Georgian Chapel with top wedding exhibitors to inspire you. Free entry! tel: 01207 541820 Saturdays all year Tai Chi 11am – 12 pm Every Saturday all year, discover the ancient art of Tai Chi in a tranquil natural setting – a great way to relax the mind and body. Suitable For Families.* £5 per lesson. tel: 01207 541820 Hadrian’s Wall & Housesteads Fort Bardon Mill, Hexham Northumberland, NE47 6NN Tel: 01434 344525 Thursday 8 March Film Night at Langley Castle - Avatar (2009) Cert 12 7pm – 10pm Enjoy Avatar, presented in 2-D with surround sound system (presentation facilities by The Haltwhistle Film project). Cafe style seating with nibbles and dips provided at all tables. Cash bar available before the film and waiter/waitress service for drinks during the presentation. Booking essential for all events. Tickets £2, available from The Bridge Library, Northumberland, NE47 6JQ or www.haydon-bridge.co.uk/martin.php Sunday 11 March Roman Wall Adventure 10am – 3pm Enjoy a Roman Wall Adventure with plenty of activites on offer and a day in the outdoors. Take part in a family adventure day as the Romans would have with activities such as fire making, problem solving, scrambling and abseiling. Please wear suitable clothing and bring a packed lunch. £5 Child £10 Adult NT Members.Booking Essential Tel: 01434 344314
Saturday 17 March Winter Hill Walking Skills Venture through the winter weather, learning key skills for trekking in the season, such as navigation and survival skills. Meet at Housesteads Car park. Please wear comfortable and sensible clothing. Call on day to check accessibility to car park. £ 25 per person N T members ( £30 non members) tel: 01434 607654 Thursday 22 March Indoor Climbing Session – Newcastle Climbing Centre 10 am – 1pm An excellent opportunity to learn the basics about climbing with a qualified instructor - learning the basic movements, tying harnesses, belaying & climbing ‘calls’. Sensible clothing and footwear needed. £20 Child, £40 Adult Booking Essential Tel: 01434 607654. Book this event and enjoy a FREE outdoor climbing session on the 26th May at Crag Lough. Wallington Cambo, Morpeth, NE61 4AR Tel: 01670 773600 Sunday 4 March Wallington Woofs 11am – 4pm Bring your dog to Wallington for a day of canine fun as we host our own version of Crufts! Enter our fun dog show, join a guided dog walk through the woods, see dog agility demos and put your own dog through its paces! Tel: 01670 773600 Friday 16 March Conservation - A glimpse behind the scenes 1pm – 3.30pm Meet our expert conservator, John Wynn Griffiths, to get a glimpse of the work that usually goes on behind closed doors at Wallington and find out how we care for the wonderful objects in our collection. Tel: 01670 773600 Sunday 18 March Tours, Talks & Workshops Make Things with your Mum 11am - 1pm & 2 - 4pm Show your Mum how special she is by making lovely crafts and flower decorations together. Booking not needed, small charge for some items Sunday 18 March Make Things with your Mum 11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm Make your Mum feel really special by making lovely crafts and flower decorations with her at Wallington for Mother’s Day. Children need to be accompanied by an adult. Small charge for items made. tel: 01670 773600 Tuesday 20 March Talk Time at Wallington: The Golden Age of Northumbria 10am - 2pm Join our medieval historian Michael Thomson as he rediscovers the kingdom that was the shining light in the “Dark Ages”. Explore the idea that Northumbria was the super power of the British Isles, the University of Europe and the cutting edge of Western civilisation. Tel: 01670 773600. BE £22, incl. coffee and lunch. Saturday 24 March Wild Walk: Tree-mendous Trees 10 - 11.30am Join our Countryside Manager for a fascinating guided walk through the woods looking at wonderful veteran trees from all over the world. 10+. Booking essential tel 01670 773963 * BE Sunday 25 March Woodland Heritage Day 11am – 3pm Meet the team who manage Wallington’s vast woodland and explore all things to do with wood. Practical demos of wood working, chainsaw carving, axe throwing and horse logging. * £ Tuesday 27 March Talk time at Wallington - Vote for my Daddy 10am – 1pm Join Lloyd Langley to discover the life of Charles Phillips Trevelyan, the radical reformer who gifted Wallington to the National Trust in 1941. Find out more about this remarkable man and the legacy he left behind. Followed light lunch in the Clocktower Café. £20 per person incl. coffee and lunch. Tel: 01670 773600
Sunday 18 March Make Things with your Mum 11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm Make your Mum feel really special by making lovely crafts and flower decorations with her at Wallington for Mother’s Day. There will be a small charge for items made. Booking not needed. tel: 01670 773600 Tuesday 20 March 10am – 2pm Join our medieval historian Michael Thomson as he rediscovers the kingdom that was the shining light in the “Dark Ages” and explores the idea that Northumbria was the super power of the British Isles, the University of Europe and the cutting edge of Western civilisation. The talk will be followed by a delicious light lunch in the Clocktower Café. Please advise if level access is required at time of booking. £22 incl coffee and lunch Booking Essential, tel 01670 773600 Saturday 24 March Wonderful Woodland 10am – 11.30pm Join our Countryside Manager Paul for a fascinating guided walk through the woods looking at the wonderful veteran trees from all over the world that we care for. Age 10+ Dogs on leads welcome. tel: 01670 773963 Sunday 25 March Half Marathon 9.30am – 12noon Take part in a scenic half marathon through the heart of Northumberland on the country roads round Wallington. For more information and to enter visit www. runnorthumberland.org or email info@ runnorthumberland.org. Booking Essential £23 UKA Club runners £25 Unattached Sunday 25 March 11ap – 3pm Meet the Countryside Team who manage Wallington’s vast woodland and explore all things to do with wood. There will be practical demos of wood working and woodland crafts such as chainsaw carving, axe throwing and horse logging. Booking not needed tel: 01670 773963
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Josie’s Dragonfly Trust Dragonfly Ball 2011 November 26th saw the launch of the annual Josie’s Dragonfly Trust Ball. The sell out event held at No 19 Close House, Wylam, Northumberland was a huge success. The guests were entertained by the wonderfully talented Paul Pashley and served food that was simply divine and prepared by Chef Simon Walsh. The ball was organised by a highly professional ball committee led by Amanda Clancy of Life Cover for All, Sue Urwin and Dee Mate. The team were truly wonderful and worked tirelessly to make it all happen.
The boxes provide hours of endless entertainment and brighten very long and sometimes very emotional stays in hospital. For more information on the charity please visit the website at www.josiesdragonfly.org or telephone the Fundraising Office on: 01434 602043
The next ball is planned for November 10th 2012 at Number 19 Close House and interested parties should contact the Fundraising Office as soon as possible to reserve their table. The charity is celebrating six months of success in their new offices at 7 Hallstile Bank , Hexham and have a full programme of events planned for 2012 including two Treks to Thailand, an exclusive monthly Ladies Dragonfly Luncheon, Art Auction and an exciting Golf Day at Hexham Golf Club on June 27th June 2012. To date, the charity has given 354 Cash Gifts amounting to an incredible £177,000 and has seen a huge increase in requests with more and more new hospitals coming on board. The Aim of Josie’s Dragonfly Trust (and Josie’s wish) has always been to brighten the lives of Children & Young People living with Cancer. As well as the cash gifts, the trust also supplies specialist Arts and Craft kits to children’s and teenage cancer wards across the country.
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Darras Hall & Ponteland Ponteland United Reformed Church Broadway Darras Hall Spring Fayre/ Sale - Held on Fri.27th March 11am-3pm - Sat 28th 10am-12 noon. In the churchon Broadway Darras Hall. Our Stalls this year includes Sundry/ Pantry &Gift Stall/Linens Usual Stalls Home Bakery, Bric a Brac, Books, Pictures, C/D& Vidoes, Gardening,Selection of Nearly new clothes. Coffee Shop Open. Contributions for the above event welcome. Church will be open on Tuesday24th April for Good Quality Clothing. Donations to any other stall 24th26th. April, at the church or for collection Les Donald on: 01661 872728 Ponteland Methodist Church by the traffic lights Sunday Services 10am & 6.30pm, both followed by refreshments Sunday 10am ‘Stepping Stones’ for children Monday ‘Open door’ drop-in café, 1pm - 4pm, soup/scones/cakes/ friendship House groups & Fellowship meetings Walking & Art groups Carpet Bowls & Luncheon Club Prayer & Fairtrade groups Youth Club & Pushchair Club & Messy Church Girls Brigade & Boys Brigade & MUCH MORE! Contact Ann on 01661 824347 Ponteland Netball Did you used to play netball? Or are you new to the game? Come and join us for a fun and sociable workout. All levels welcome. Every monday 8-9pm Sports Hall, (Behind) Ponteland Middle School Starts again Monday 9th January Contact: 07715 607272 pontnetball@gmail.com Ponteland Embroiderers’ Guild meet in St Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland from 2pm to 4pm. Everyone welcome. Tea or coffee and biscuits available. A small charge for visitors to defray hall costs. More information from Sandra Rusby tel 01661 832172 or email sandrarusby@aol.com Ponteland Civic Society’s forthcoming programme of Talks All meetings held at 7.30 p.m. in St. Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road. Non members most welcome at a nominal charge Monday 26th March 2012 AGM and Bill Saunders “ Quayside “ Monday 30th April 2012 Dr. Liz O’Donnell: “Voices of Northumberland” Ponteland Badminton Club meet every Friday evening 8:3010:00 at Ponteland Leisure Centre. Adults of all ages will be assured of a warm welcome. Just come along or contact 07986 388 822 for more information.
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Ponteland Senior Gentlemen’s Club The aim of the Club, founded in 1975, is to promote fellowship within the community. Membership is open to gentlemen over the age of 55 who are not in full time employment. Present membership is about 100 but new members are always welcome. Meetings are held on the second Monday of every month at the Memorial hall, Ponteland at 2.00 for 2.30 pm. Each month there is a guest speaker, the talk being followed by tea and biscuits. The speaker programme can be seen in the events book at Ponteland Library. There are no attendance rules nor are apologies for absence required. You attend when you wish to. The annual subscription is £10.00. For further information contact Donald Lloyd at donaldflloyd@sky. com 01661 872661 or come along to our next meeting. Ponteland Photographic Society. Merton Hall, Ponteland www. pontelandphotographicsociety. co.uk We meet each Monday at 7.30pm in Merton Hall, Ponteland. The Society is very friendly, informal and always welcomes new members. The programme ranges from visiting speakers, through workshops to competitions with the aim of helping everyone improve their photography and solve problems. There is lots more information, including a full calendar of events, on the website or call Mike Sadler on 01661 823519. Ponteland Local History Society St Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland. 2nd Thursday in month. 7.30pm – 9.00pm. visitors welcome. Admission £1.50 Ponteland History Local Society Archive desk – Ponteland library every Friday 2pm – 5pm. Messy Church Ponteland Methodist Church the second Saturday of the month from 4-6pm. All ages welcome, bring an adult along. Art ,craft and worship followed by a light meal. Contact Hannah Middleton for more information on 0191 2713556 Ponteland United Reformed Church Sunday morning services 10.00am Church cafe 2nd Sunday of the month at 6.30pm Friday lunches 12.30pm Coffee lounge: Tue 2.30pm – 4.30pm, Wed 10.30am – 12.30pm and 3.00pm – 5.00pm, Thurs 10.30am – 12.30pm Ponteland Floral Art Club 3rd Tuesday of the month, Ponteland Memorial Hall, Darras Road 7.30pm Alpine Garden Society 2nd Monday of the month, St. Mary’s Church Hall, Ponteland 7.30pm
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Northumberland Fuchsia Society 1st Thursday of the month, St Matthew’s Church Hall, Ponteland 7.30pm. Ponteland Civic Society. Ponteland U3A Meet every first Wednesday in the month at 2pm in St Mary’s Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland. St Mary’s Church, Ponteland SUNDAY 8.00am ~ The Communion with Address 10.00am ~ 1st Sunday of the month ~ Family Service 2nd Sunday of the month ~ Holy Communion with hymns 3rd Sunday of the month ~ Morning Service with Baptisms 4th Sunday of the month ~ Holy Communion with hymns
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5th Sunday of the month ~ please see Diary. Please join us for coffee in the Church Hall after the 10.00 service 6.30pm ~ Evening Worship, with BCP on 1st and 3rd Sundays 6.30pm ~ Fourth Sunday each month - special service including Taizé Weekday Services 10.00am Each Wednesday Holy Communion Visit website for all activities and events www.pontelandstmary.org.uk If your a community organisation and would like a free listing in this section, email: office@tynevalleyexpress
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Darras Hall & Ponteland Would you credit it? At this time of year, we’re all feeling a little cash-strapped and in the current economic climate, money is very much on all our minds. It is of particular importance to those affected by separation or divorce who have found themselves in new, challenging financial circumstances. I have recently met with a number of clients who have been left struggling to cope with their financial situations and do not know what they are entitled to. So this month I am going to write about Tax Credits, which are payouts from the state made regularly into your bank account to support those with children or on a low income. They are paid via the Tax Office and anyone aged over 16 and resident in the UK can apply to receive them. It is estimated that about 90% of families with children may be eligible for them and even people with household incomes of up to £50,000 may be able to make a claim. You may also qualify if you have no children but are working and have a low income.
Tax credits are calculated using household income. So it is the income of both partners which is used to work out tax credits. Once separation occurs, however, then the income for the household is obviously based on only one person. And somewhat strangely, any maintenance a person receives from a former spouse is disregarded for the purposes of tax credits. So once a high earning husband leaves the family home, even if he pays £1,000 per month maintenance, the household income is based only on what the wife earns. As well as maintenance being disregarded for calculating tax credits, so too is capital. It is the income from capital that is taken into account for tax credits purposes. So if the remaining wife has savings of, say £80,000, on which she gets interest of £1,600 per year, it is only the interest of £1,600 which the tax credit office will consider. It is important to keep the Tax Office up to date with any changes in your life that may affect your Tax Credits and the HMRC website has a calculator that will allow you to work out how much and which Tax Credits you are able to claim. As owner of Major Family Law, I see a wide range of clients, both in terms of their
situation and also in terms of their finances. This has prompted me to include some articles about tax credits and general tax on my website www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk, with a particular emphasis on issues arising from relationship breakdown. Joanne Major is owner of Major Family Law The Divorce and Family Law Specialists. t: 01661 824582 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk Twitter: @MajorFamilyLaw
Saddle up for a Charity Horse Ride Marie Curie Cancer Care is inviting local residents from Newcastle areas to sign up for their brand new Sierra Nevada Horse Riding Challenge. This one off event is taking place from June 29 to July 3, 2012 and is a five day expedition which includes three days’ of horse riding adventure. Participants will explore the unique landscape of Southern Spain taking in sheltered valleys, lush gorges and mountain villages on the foothills of Sierra Nevada. Vicky Profit, local fundraiser for Marie Curie Cancer Care, said: “I am really excited about this unusual event and I hope anyone who has ever enjoyed horse riding will jump at the chance to take on this challenge and support their local Marie Curie Nurses. I am sure our participants will have a once in a lifetime experience.” We hope that this challenge will raise over £80,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care, whose nurses provide free care to people with terminal cancer and other illnesses in their own homes and in the charity’s nine hospices.
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Why not sign up today or for further information about the challenge, please visit our website: www.mariecurie.org.uk/sierranevada or call us on: 08700 340 040
Looking after what's important
In divorce cases involving children we think first as parents and then as lawyers. Divorce is not an easy time for anyone, but we will work with you to create the best outcome for you and your children, dealing with your individual circumstances with compassion and respect as well as professionalism. Visit our website to find out more:
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Darras Hall & Ponteland Spring Photography Winter is largely behind us, although there is the ever present risk of “the lambing storm”. I am always a bit sorry to see another winter disappear into history, but not the black ice this year that, in collusion with a stone wall, tore off the front of my car. Contrary to the effect on my car, the wall proudly displayed not even the slightest hint of the incident. Spring is liberating. We can feel the freedom of the warmer days and the casting off of the restricting winter wear. There are more opportunities to get out and there is more to do. Photographically we are in a time of the year of rapid and dramatic
attached picture of the Roman Cavalry charge. I can assure you those horses were really moving!
change. Colour returns to both the urban and rural worlds around us. The sequence of new Spring growth is already well under way with the snowdrops long gone. Resuming the hints and tips to help with your photography we will look at foregrounds in this issue of the Tyne Valley Express. Foreground refers to what is immediately in front of the camera. Most of us (yes, including me) are frequently inclined to put the most interesting part of a picture in the middle. All too often this results in a picture where most of the bottom half is grass, sand, carpet and so on; the interest is all crammed into the top half of the picture. It is far better if we can think of the picture as a whole and what we want to show others or later enjoy ourselves. By reframing the picture we can bring the interesting bit to the front filling the foreground and making a more balanced photograph. This also makes the main subject larger allowing us to see it more clearly and in more detail. It can make a picture more dramatic – see the
The other reason for filling the foreground is that it can tell us more about the subject of the picture. For example, in the picture of Hadrian’s Wall accompanying this article the Wall is in the foreground showing you that it is the ruins of a seriously substantial structure and considerable obstacle to negotiate. The foreground gives way to the middle ground and distance which sets the Wall in its context of the wild and dramatic landscape showing how the Whin Sill fault line was used to further reinforce the defensive line. Enjoy your photography in this Spring.
Roger Clegg www.northern-horizons.co.uk
Experience has shown that the size, stability and ease of sailing of the Drascombe Gig makes it most suited to Calvert Trust activities. “People are often nervous about getting into a boat, but when we demonstrate the stability of the gig, they relax and thoroughly enjoy their trip on the water.” James, activity instructor. The Gig is easier for novice sailors to learn to sail, giving them a real sense of achievement. Large groups can take to the water together and the crew area is more flexible and comfortable for less mobile users, allowing for modifications such as supportive seating. With a bigger platform the Gig is able to cope with more challenging sailing conditions while maintaining comfort and stability and this in turn helps boost confidence in those sailing for the first time. Calvert Trust Kielder offers people with disabilities and their family and friends, the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities in Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland. Sailing is one of the most popular activities and when the need arose for a new sailing boat to enable more visitors to experience the thrill of sailing on Kielder Water, the fundraising team at Calvert Trust contacted The Sylvia Adams Trust to ask for help to fund a new vessel. Following a visit to the centre on the shores of Kielder Water, Jane Young Director of the Trust, was happy to endorse the application and the trustees allocated a grant of £24,511 to buy a Drascombe Gig.
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Peter Cockerill, CEO of Calvert Trust said “We are very grateful to Sylvia Adams Trust for their generosity and support. Without their help, we would not have been able to buy the boat in the foreseeable future.” The new boat has been named ‘Sylvia Adams’ and some guests, staying at the centre on a respite break, were thrilled to take part in her inaugural sail on the lake. The gig is a powerful and exhilarating sailing boat that will accommodate 10 people but can be sailed single-handedly by an experienced skipper. Designed as a training vessel, this would replace two smaller 20 year old Drascombe Longboats and complement the one Gig already in service at Calvert Trust.
For more information: www.calvert-trust.org.uk/kielder For further media information or images contact: Linda Squire, Development Manager, Calvert Trust Kielder, 01434 250232 linda.squire@calvert-kielder.com
We can help you live well at home The good news is that in the UK we are living longer. A Ponteland based company is now working with local people to help them live more independently and safely in their own homes. Bob Nelson is one of the partners at Diagonal Alternatives, and has been providing first class care services to people in the Tyne Valley for many years This is what our clients say about him:
‘You are the most sensible person I have spoken to with a view to sorting our my brother’s problems’ Thank you for going the extra mile’
Our staff are trained, qualified, and work to a very high standard to deliver the highest quality, person-centred care to our clients. Some people only need some temporary assistance, for instance after surgery or an accident. Other people are looking for a live-in service - and we can provide these and everything in between. Please do get in touch, and we will arrange a free, no obligation consultation. We are looking forward to meeting you, and to providing you and your family some peace of mind’.
‘Thank you for providing a life-saving service’ ‘I am full of confidence in your staff looking after my husband’ ‘I am very happy with the service - it is excellent’ Bob says ‘We work with people at an important time in their lives, when they are thinking about getting some help at home. With the right kind of help, families can be assured that their relatives can continue to live independently in their own homes. We are the alternative to residential care. Our very professional team will work with families, so that they understand what is available to help them, and how they can stay in control. Our clients choose the services they want to receive, at the times they choose, from the staff they choose. We will advise on the telecare equipment which would make their relative’s life more secure - and give them assurance that they are safe and well.
Contact Diagonal Alternatives at 10a West Road, Ponteland, NE20 9SU Telephone: 01661 820930 bob@diagonalalternatives.com www.diagonalalternatives.com
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www.karpetmills.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply. Ask instore for written details
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN INSIDE TESCO AT KINGSTON PARK
TESCO Showroom Unit 6B, Tesco Stores Kingston Park Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 3FP 0191 214 5439 All quotations must be itemised and price match is valid for supply and installation only.
FACTORY Unit 2, Foundry Park Market Lane, Swalwell Newcastle upon Tyne NE16 3DS 0191 488 4141
www.dandsinteriors.co.uk