EDITION 162
CIRCULATION 4,800
DECEMBER 2014
SALTBURN’S FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE www.tottsaltburn.co.uk 1
SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK Letter from the Editor Two opinions were communicated to me in November that I This is ludicrous. Apart from the magazine being dependent cannot possibly agree with. I considered both opinions to be for its very existence on advertising, again, anyone with simple ridiculous. The first was that I am politically biased. What powers of observation can look through the magazine and see utter rubbish! Anyone with simple powers of observation can what a huge quantity of articles there are. look through the magazine and see that there is, on the whole, This month we have the largest Talk of the Town with a balance between views expressed by Labour supporters and 68 pages. Only once before has this happened, but this time those by Conservatives. No other political party sends me there are 24 pages of colour inside which probably makes this anything. If I were biased I would choose to publish only one edition the best one I have ever produced in the magazine’s side. That I don’t, makes it obvious that I am not biased. It history. It was regrettable that I could not include all the also obvious that contributions from political parties are kept articles I had been sent this time, but they can form the basis to an absolute minimum and anyone can guess that most of for January’s magazine. Please note the early deadline for their many press releases are simply not published in the January’s magazine which has to go to the printers before I can magazine. The article for Saltburn Cons Club is in fact an think about Christmas. Merry Christmas everybody! Love, Ian. advert paid for by the Club, as is our MP’s advert. When the Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by magazine is financed only by advertising it would be foolish Friday, 12th December 2014) to: The Editor, Talk of the of me to reject an advert just because it was political, even Town c/o Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, though there have been times in the past when I have done Cleveland, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 623903 (or email: just that, because I considered the advert a ‘step too far’. talkofthetown@tyasi.freeserve.co.uk). Talk of the Town has Which brings me to the second opinion, that there are a website: www.tottsaltburn.co.uk and the Friends of Talk of too many adverts, and not enough articles, in the magazine. the Town can be found on Facebook. The Guisborough and District Branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild are holding their monthly meeting on Ripples, Saltburn’s monthly pop-up shop, will be open on Saturday, 3rd January, 2015 at 1.45pm for 2pm in Sunnyfield Saturday, 13th December at The Workhouse (next door to House, Westgate, Guisborough. TS14 6BA. This meeting is Ripping Yarns), Dundas Street West from 9.00am onwards. run in house by the members and will be on Inspirations and The shop stocks affordable unique goods including pottery Travelling Books. Visitors are welcome whether non- mugs, jugs and dishes; quilts and handbags; woodcraft items; stitchers, beginners or more experienced stitchers; we will be cards and a large selection of jewellery. We also have a variety very pleased to see you. The Belmont House car park (behind of socks, hats, scarves and gloves guaranteed to keep you, members of your family and your friends, warm this the council offices) is free on Saturdays. winter. Each month, all of the money from the sale of some of For more information please call 01642 314860. Emmanuel Church Hall Table Top and Collectors’ Sale: the goods (identified by coloured dots on price tickets) is Our next dates are Saturdays, December 6th and 20th. Then donated to Teesside Hospice. For further details, contact Pat on we start back on the 17th January and we have another date 07789 123722 (or email: kath.west45@virginmedia.com). on 30th January, then February 7th and 21st. FREE WI Report: Ladies of Saltburn WI met on the l3th November ENTRANCE and a warm welcome to everyone. With over 26 when one of our own members talked to us about Christmas stall holders, selling lots of bric-a-brac, books, toys, baby Delights. It was an interesting evening with much conversation goods, and all sorts of collectables, and some crafts, there is and anecdotes; this was a perfect pre-amble to our visit to York something for everyone. Home made refreshments and light racecourse on Friday the l4th November when a coach full of lunches are on sale all day. Our all day breakfast and lunches members spent the day at the Living North Christmas Fair. The and popular home baked stall are always available. Our brochure boasted that it offered all you needed for Christmas kitchen is very busy and popular. I would like to thank under one roof and that pretty much delivered. It was an everyone who has supported us this last year and wish opportunity to find local, good quality gifts at reasonable prices. Certainly many packages and bags journeyed back with everyone a happy Christmas and a healthy new year. ladies to Saltburn. Continuing the festive theme ladies of Contact Denise Marshall on 07929 589538. Saltburn Farmers’ Market: The popular monthly market Saltburn have been invited to a Carol Service at Moorsholm on rounds off the year in style with a bumper Christmas Special the 3rd December and members are planning a Christmas Event on Saturday, 13th December. Over 35 stalls will include a buffet supper for our next monthly meeting on 11th December tasty mix of great locally produced food, drink and local art - at 7.30pm. Saltburn WI always is happy to welcome new and one lucky shopper will win a special Farmers’ Market members and we offer members a wide range of activities from Hamper on the day itself. The Market then takes its annual craft classes, walking group, masterclass cookery and much winter break, returning on Saturday, 14th March next year. more. We meet every 2nd Thursday (except August) at 7.30pm See our report on page 12, and see Saltburn Farmers’ Market in the Methodist Church Hall, Saltburn. Barbara Spanner on facebook for further news & info. Cover Illustration: The cast of Karma Dance by Francis Fitzgerald. See page 26. Disclaimer: Talk of the Town tries to make sure the articles and announcements made on its pages are accurate, but views expressed in letters and articles printed in Talk of the Town are not necessarily those of the editor. Any offers in adverts included in Talk of the Town are made by the advertisers; details should be confirmed with them. Always confirm event details with the organisers, in case of alteration or error. Talk of the Town is printed by DC (Yorkshire) Print, Unit 34a, Lidgate Crescent, Langthwaite Business Park, South Kirkby, West Yorkshire, WF9 3NR. Website: www.dcprintyorkshire.co.uk Tel: 01977 642331. Proprietor/Editor of Talk of the Town: Ian Tyas c/o Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ. (Ian Tyas tel: 01287 623903.)
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Riftswood Mill (Marske Mill) a Photographic memory
Marske Mill was so called because it was originally in the Parish of Marske and it was later known as Riftswood Mill (named after the steep valley through which Skelton Beck runs). It became a popular destination for visitors, photographers and artists. There were 9 mills on Skelton Beck or its tributaries, now only Tocketts Mill remains as a full operating mill, open to the public on Sunday afternoons during the Summer months. The first mill on the site appears to have begun working about 1690 and the last mill working ended in 1925, when the mill buildings became a smallholding. Cleveland Archaeology
began a survey and excavations in the Spring of 1987, and in 1989 a report on the excavations and survey was published by Stephen J. Sherlock. Further information on milling can be read in ‘Eight Centuries of Milling in North East Yorkshire’ by John K Harrison, published by the North York Moors National Park Authority. The Villa shown in the photographs was built for the Resident Engineer in charge of building the nearby Railway Viaduct. A developer proposed building executive type houses on the site of the mill, but this was energetically opposed by residents of Saltburn-by-the-Sea resulting in a public enquiry and the scheme being totally rejected. Cath and Tony Lynn
Saltburn Photographic Society Wednesday, 3rd December Members’ Critique Night, a feedback on members’ work. Wednesday, 10th December Results of Les Gould, Studio Tristan and Harry Brittain Competitions. Wednesday, 17th December Annual Christmas event with free mince pies, tea and coffee. A Practical night will be held on Monday, 15th December at 7.00pm in our normal meeting room, with 4
more details available from the contact number. Meetings are held in the upstairs hall, Saltburn Milton Street Methodist Church TS12 1EB at 7.30 pm. Visitors are welcome to any of our meetings, there will be a small charge. For more information visit our web site www.saltburnphotographicsociety.co.uk or contact Tony Lynn 01287 622519.
Advent Fair at Botton Village Steiner School, 7th December 11 - 4pm Looking for that special gift and card? Choose from our vast range of products incl: Woodwick scented candles, Jellycat soft toys, Thomas Kent clocks, Arran Aromatics toiletries, Emma Bridgewater & Cath Kidston pottery & much more. Now also available online. Visit us at www.bramblesgiftshop.co.uk 4, Station Street, Saltburn by the Sea, TS12 1AE Tel: 01287 623 368 www.bramblesgiftshop.co.uk
Saltburn Councillors’ Surgeries Councillors Philip Thomson and Stuart Smith Second Saturday in the month at Saltburn Library from 11am - noon. Councillor Stuart Smith: Third Saturday in the month at the Station Portico outside Sainsbury’s Supermarket - 9:30am - 10:30am and 11:30am - 12:15pm Councillor Philip Thomson: Fourth Saturday in the month at Saltburn Library from 11am - noon. Cllr Guy - 01287 622212. Cllr Thomson - 01287 624883. Cllr Smith - 07557 540628.
If you are looking for a Traditional Christmas Market selling local crafts, then come along and enjoy carols, a puppet show, candle dipping and festive activities for all the family. Plus try some delicious wholesome food and homemade cakes in our vintage tea room and cafe. This Christmas take a step back into the past and discover the hidden treasure that is Botton Village Steiner School, near Danby in the heart of the national park. We hope to see you there. www.facebook.com/BottonVillageSchool www.bottonvillageschool.co.uk
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Friends of Talk of the Town Hello from Friends of Talk of the Town. If you have read any of my ramblings during the last two years, you will have recalled I often need to be listening to music to be in touch with my ‘muse’. This month, I am writing after having experienced quite definitely one of the most incredible musical events I have ever attended. On the day of our fortieth wedding anniversary we enjoyed the Thurston Christmas Spectacular show which has grown from humble beginnings into an absolutely amazing treat for the eyes, the ears and above all else the soul. If you choose to research this event (unless you already know about it of course) don’t get the impression that it’s just something for the ‘old folks’ like us. It is far from that and for one who found Springsteen a total bore at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light then I’m really saying something. It may not exactly be a ‘bucket list’ event but treat yourselves if you get the chance. Given that Saltburn has a lively music and entertainment scene, then maybe you’ll be already dismissing such an outlandish suggestion. However, the reality of it is that I can thank those incredible musicians (and Harry Simpson) who performed at Blues in the Woods back in September who made me actually want to revisit the live music scene. I’ve been a devoted hi-fi fan for more years than I can remember so I’m truly enjoying something of a musical epiphany. Talking of our anniversary, Denise and I have thoroughly enjoyed our week away from home and that’s something I can heartily recommend you to try with your loved one(s): especially if like us, you’ve not done that for a while. We had incredible weather, which always helps of course, as we were initially a little unsure of the concept of a holiday in the UK in November. Thank you to all who wished us well for this special week either in person or through our ‘social media’. Your kind words were most appreciated. Turning my thoughts back to home we now well and truly have of course Christmas and the New Year on the all too near horizon. Writing this article in the middle of November obviously means that naturally we are looking forward to the festivities and have the luxury of a little reflection. We write for January around the second week in December so I am sure you can see how difficult a task it can be. Therefore I am going to take this opportunity to wish you all the very best for Christmas and the New Year safe in the knowledge that being on page six (usually) I will be among the first in the magazine. James, Paul and I continue to be overwhelmed by the tremendous support you have given to ensure this magazine continues to be produced. Earlier in the year we encouraged Ian Tyas to take the magazine in a direction he agonised over for a long time and I think it’s fair to say the publication you are now holding is barely recognisable from the previous format. I can assure you that the same loving care goes into making this possible 6
by Ian and Heather: however, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our readers, contributors, advertisers and not forgetting for one moment the assistance of Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council. There have been some views expressed about an apparent increase in (colour) advertising and a perceived reduction in articles. Ian has always insisted that Talk of the Town will maintain the right balance between the two elements. It’s a plain fact of life that this magazine depends on advertising revenue for its survival and probably always will. Ian insists, however, that there has been absolutely no reduction in the number of articles. He continues to publish nearly all that are sent to him. You can help us sustain the magazine and do your bit for the local environment by buying our excellent joint calendar produced with Saltburn Friends of the Valley. The calendar is on sale now from Eveline Brentano Flowers, Sainsbury’s, Real Meals, Saltburn Library and valley stalwarts ‘Top Shop’ on Upleatham Street. I feel privileged to be involved with Saltburn Friends of the Valley who are a devoted group of people who care deeply about making the valley a place we can all enjoy today and in the future. Unfortunately ‘we’ cannot achieve our aims without funds and therefore, wearing my valley hat, I ask you to support us both in any way you can. Lorna Moone’s News and Views from the Valley appears elsewhere in this edition however, whilst it’s fair to say they knew what they were letting themselves in for by ‘enlisting’ me, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ian Tyas for his continuing support for our efforts. Like you and I, Ian loves the valley and appreciates this special community we are fortunate to have. I’d like to repeat my thanks to everybody who makes this magazine ‘happen’ and the crew who get it you, month in month out. Thanks to those who host our collection boxes (alongside Valley ones in some places) and to you all for your generous donations. Some would say it’s not good manners to single one host out; however, we enjoy tremendous support from those who get their magazine through Park News in Skelton. For long enough I have believed we should have more content from ‘out of town’ readers and organisations. If you’re one such individual or group, please get in touch: we’d love to hear from you and there are many who read us in your town! Finally, on behalf of both Saltburn Friends of the Valley and Friends of Talk of the Town we extend our sincere thanks to Garry and Nicola Stonehouse of GBiz IT for another year of substantial financial and technical support. You are without doubt incredible people. Again , all the best for the festivities - make sure you visit the valley for Santa’s Grotto on the 13th December see you there! Richard Dales-Coupland Secretary, Friends of Talk of the Town Trustee Director, Saltburn Friends of the Valley Ltd
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For more details contact: REAL MEALS, 25 MILTON STREET, SALTBURN, Tel: 01287 622266. Email: enquiries@realmeals.co.uk, Website: www.realmeals.co.uk
Councillors’ Column The New Year beckons and forward planning is very much in evidence. Work is under way to consider operating costs of Council services during 2015/16. With a continuing challenge to match expenditure against income, the art of budgeting is very much in demand. Savings achieved over the last four years have amounted to £42.5 million. Next year further savings of £5.8 million are pencilled in. How to save this amount and still deliver services is once again the subject of discussion, prompting yet another service review. Whilst encouragement is being given to stimulate growth in the local economy and create the environment for additional employment, Redcar & Cleveland will be relooking at its establishment. Having removed some 750 posts over the last four years, the question might be asked about the potential for further reduction. With deliberations concluded the suggested options will be made public and consultation will be invited from residents, businesses and organisations. Recommendations will be finalised in February with the traditional Demand letter falling through the letter box in March. One factor directing future structures is the proposal for a new authority in the Teesside region. This would see five local councils joining forces to boost economic growth and job creation. Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington and Redcar and Cleveland may unite as a formal combined Authority to focus on economic development, transport, infrastructure and skills. This new statutory body would seek devolved powers and resources from Government, hold joint meetings with the Tees Valley Local
Enterprise Partnership and its business representatives, and share staff and resources. This arrangement would consolidate regeneration work undertaken by individual Councils and hopefully secure greater success by working together. The proposal has received enthusiastic support from The North East Chamber of Commerce, the CBI and the Institute of Directors. Consultation is due to start on December 10th and last until the end of February when final conclusions will be available on all five councils’ websites. A submission will be made to Government soon after if the proposals are accepted. A Combined Authority could come into operation in the Autumn or Winter of 2015. The traffic speed results on Marske Road have prompted a Speed Watch campaign. Members of the public are welcomed to support the Police Authority by participating in the monitoring team. Just call in to the Front Desk at the Police Station. Having mentioned that august presence on Windsor Road, it may be as well to ask a question on its own future. Construction work carried out at the nearby Fire Station indicates that some decision may have been taken. As the festive season approaches we shall all be looking out for those around us who may be in need and with whom we may wish to share fellowship at this special time. Surgeries this month will be on the 1st and 2nd Saturdays from 11am until Noon. Residents unable to visit on a Saturday can request a direct contact by leaving a message with Library staff. Philip Thomson 7
House Concert Raises £100 Local musicians, Barbara Helen and Les Barker held a house concert in their home in Emerald Street on 23rd October 2014, and raised over £100 for Macmillan Nursing. Concertgoers were treated to a varied evening of contemporary songs, headlined by singer-songwriter Steve Dagleish, who included several numbers from his latest album ‘Only Losers Write on Bridges’. Get the album to find how he came by the title (see www.stevedagleish.bandcamp.com). Barbara and Les opened the evening with three songs - a dreaming and free-spirited ‘Sailing the Wind’ by Barbara, featuring a guitar solo from Les, a rhythmically supple and subtle version of Sandy Denny’s ‘Who Knows Where the Time Goes?’, and Barbara’s ‘My Own Patch of Blue Sky’, with charming guitar interlude, from her latest CD. Steve, who has local connections, but lives in London, then started with one of his early songs - ‘World of News’, a vibrant and angry number about today’s paranoia, cynicism and information overload. He continued with a more reflective piece - ‘Five Minutes’ (‘continuing my rage against the machine’) - imagining an interview between figures such as David Kelly and Tony Blair. Next was ‘The One Thing’, in which he reflected on his corporate past and the experience of leaving it - this had a Latin American beat, with a mellifluous wordless section. The title number of his album - ‘Only Losers Write on Bridges’, based on experiences touring in the Northern USA after first leaf fall, featured vocal accompaniment from Barbara. ‘River Man’, based on a chord set taken from Nick Drake, had impressionist lyrics which Steve himself admitted he doesn’t fully understand, but is maybe about waiting too long, or being too late. ‘All You Could’, a lyrical and reflective love song, followed, then a raw slice of autobiography, exploring the randomness of tragedy and
the unfairness of childhood guilt, ‘Mr Parson’s Tears’. ‘Angel to Ancient’ explored what Steve described as ‘the bitter joke of ageing’, changing the theme with a tribute to ‘my ma’s ma - and a long line of Irish Marys’. The chorus for this was ‘O’ Level twelve short ‘Os’ and one long one, and the audience may have passed the exam. In ‘About Death’ Steve was ‘considering our end... with an upbeat approach’; the result was sensitively funky. The final number of the first session was ‘Innocence’, written for his friend Wally McDonald, and sought ‘a bit of upswing’ with the message ‘It’s time for innocence and love’. The lucky audience then had some of Barbara’s lovely home-made food in the break. The second half was a mixture of singers: Barbara started with one of her own songs (‘Let These Clouds Sail by’), referring to revisiting her childhood home, and finding freedom by letting go of the desire to fit in. Christine and Bernie Johnson then did two numbers - ‘There’s a Time’, a simple, direct, sane piece about when you really need to look ahead, and the evocative and laid back ‘Paris Plage’. Graham Brotton then gave a demonstration of impeccable finger style guitar with ‘Linda's Lament’ - a very sweet tune picked out beautifully, and another lovely instrumental, ‘Grace’. Steve Dagleish came back with ‘King of the Mountain’, re the down side of achieved ambition, and ‘Why Don’t You Love Me Like You Love my 4x4?’, a funny tribute to Ray Davies, from whom he acknowledges much help through a songwriters’ workshop. Christine and Bernie returned with the painful and indignant ‘It’s Happening Again’, and Barbara joined them for the last song of the evening - her own soulful and uplifting ‘Believe’. The whole evening was a really enjoyable experience, and a tribute to the musical talent originating from and centred on Saltburn. Thanks to Barbara and Les for having the idea, and for their excellent organisation.
Saltburn and District Group for Visually Impaired People (VIP) In November we welcomed back Michelle from the Macular Society. Michelle has been twice before but always has useful and interesting information. She informed us of the latest research taking place, not just for Macular Degeneration, but for other eye conditions affecting the retina. Stem cell research and gene therapy are the forerunners, but to be able to have these as a treatment are many years away. Michelle also talked of the important things we can do to avoid damage to the eyes. This includes eating lots of dark green vegetables, especially Curly Kale (yeuck!), stopping smoking and avoiding smoky atmospheres, and always wearing protective eye ware when out in the sunshine. 8
The Macular Society have a good helpline who can answer many questions about Macular, and can be contacted on 0300 3030 111. Next meeting takes place on Wednesday, 10th December and we welcome representatives from Guide Dogs and the local police. Guide dogs have a campaign running to try and rid our pavements of parked vehicles - a hazard to most of us, not just the visually impaired. You do not have to be affected by an eye condition to come and join us. Meet in the Coffee Lounge, Community Centre, Albion Terrace from 2pm. A small charge is made to cover room hire and refreshments. Contact Chris Ferguson on 01287 204 170.
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We Are Remembering June 1st - ‘Christmas Day Truce 1914’ re-enactment
A video of the event has now been released capturing the events during the day with over 100 people attending the recent Film Premiere at Saltburn House on Thursday, 13th November and the DVD is now available from Saltburn Library for a donation of £5 with the profits going directly to the Saltburn War Memorial Restoration Project. Many thanks to Adam Steele and Claire Wakeling for their patience and dedication in the making of this film (contact allanwhiley@hotmail.co.uk). Peter Barron, the editor of the Northern Echo, commenting on the DVD, said: “What a wonderful keepsake of an unforgettable day.” See next month’s magazine for a larger report. Allan Whiley 9
Christmas lights go up
Saltburn’s Christmas lights have been put up by a band of volunteers, who included a few new recruits. Trevor Welburn, of the Friends of Saltburn, said two ladies, including his wife Jean, helped during the two-day job of installing 21 motifs. “It is costing us about £2,000 to replace halogen bulbs with LED bulbs, which have to be done by mid-2016. Each LED costs nearly £5, about double the price of a halogen. Four of the motifs, which cover the town centre, feature angels. In addition, 36 Christmas trees, including an 8ft one for the bandstand, have been put up. The lights, including giant Christmas tree in Albion Terrace, were being switched on, on Saturday, 29th November, helped by the fire brigade. The parish council is providing the main tree. Volunteers are being sought for the two-day job of taking down and storing the decorations. Helpers are asked to meet at the station portico from 9am on Tuesday, 6th January 2015 to help for either a few hours or what they can manage. The Friends of Saltburn raise money throughout the year at table-top sales in the community centre and station portico Sunday sales.
4 People Not Profit Community Network
4 People Not Profit Saltburn’s premier event organizers who have been putting on gigs and film nights in Saltburn promoting social justice and human rights issues for the last 7 years have launched a new initiative: The Community Network. The idea is to create a network to link up all of the left, environmental and community groups in the Teesside area to promote communication and collaborative working to get more people involved in community activism. The 4 People Not Profit Community Network had its launch meeting on Tuesday, 11th of November at the Marine Hotel in Saltburn. Around 25 or so people attended representing a range of local activist groups including The World Development Movement, Friends of the Earth, The People’s Assembly, Teesside Solidarity Movement, Beachwatch, Frack free Cleveland, and Transition Saltburn amongst others and various other interested activists. The community Network will comprise of a regular mailing list of all events and a regular newsletter available on the mailing list and paper copies to be distributed around the Teesside area. The Community Network will hold meetings on a bi monthly basis to promote collaborative working and to act as a social evening for different groups and individuals to get together and see what events and campaigns they can work together on. Ultimately we are looking to put on a festival at the end of next summer in Saltburn to promote community unity. If you are a member of a community or activist group or an individual that looks to help the disadvantaged, or protect the environment or just promotes community unity and breaking down barriers in the local area, and would like to join this Community Network please contact myself Justin (on supercharger52@hotmail.com). See also page 24 for details of our regular film night. 10
Saltburn in Bloom
More Good News! Last month I informed you that our Gardening Group had been nominated in the South Tees Volunteering Excellence Awards 2014 and I am delighted to tell you that, at the Riverside Stadium on November 6th we received the trophy for Environmental Volunteers. The group were praised for their dedication and allyear round contribution to the local environment for the benefit of the whole community, of which I have written on numerous occasions, and the wonderful atmosphere and spirit among the group was also highlighted. The gardeners are all delighted and the trophy is on show in the Library. You can see five of us proudly showing our award in the above photograph. Glynis Rodgerson from Saltburn also received an award as a Health and Wellbeing Champion for her work at Marske Hall, supporting people with disabilities and we are delighted for her too. The event was very humbling as the room was full of so many deserving volunteers in all areas of life – all making a difference and everyone a winner! The event brought to mind something I had read in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town and also in Redcar Academy, written by Margaret Mead a cultural anthropologist: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.” Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. You might like to support our gardening group by making a small donation towards the cost of plants and compost. £5, £10 or £20 would be greatly appreciated if you could spare it. Or you might like to join our gardening group on Wednesdays 9.30 – 11.30am, with the obligatory coffee break for chatting! Telephone me on 01287 209518 for more details. Finally I would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and New Year. Lynda Parkes
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Veterinary Matters Winter is more or less with us, as is Christmas with all the potential upheaval it can bring. The list of what we need to do at this time of year needs to include our pets in our own homes, not forgetting the garden crew! With cold and frost we may need to feed the birds in the garden, but watch out for squirrels muscling in. Even though the weather may be poor, your dog will still need walking as regularly as in the summer. Also in the cold, cats will more often seek out areas of warmth and stay there all day rather than interact, so wake them up and play with them. We like to spoil ourselves and our family and friends, so why not our pets? They may well get very excited about a new toy, but then they may be more interested in other presents under the tree. One of our cats loves to eat tinsel and ribbons, so they are banned from our house at any time of the year. Some favourite tree decorations are foil covered chocolates, often at the right height for the dog to sample which is not a good idea! A few of our favourite festive treats that are not suitable for our pets include... Chocolate, dried fruit/Christmas cake or pudding, grapes, pork, raw onions or garlic, turkey legs to name but a few and of course no Alcohol! Every holiday season will often bring our patients in for two reasons. Firstly the dog or cat needs a prescription top up. Don’t leave it too late to order them. The other is
that we often go away for part of the festive season and either put our pet in a boarding establishment, or get the neighbour to call in. Either scenario needs a bit of organisation and numbers left for contact, vaccines updated and food sorted. It can sometimes take longer to sort out the dog than yourself. Remember that they will get stressed as well, more so if you are. With regards stress, the 5th of November has passed, but we seem to like to celebrate New Year with fireworks. Remember what you did last month to keep your pet settled and repeat it at the end of the year. Whatever pet you have, and that includes horses, please get the days and times that your vet will be open over Christmas and how to contact them in times of emergency. My first Christmas as a vet was spent dealing with a West Highland Terrier that had been given a turkey bone as a treat on Christmas day. It got stuck and had to be referred to another practice to try to get it out. Please enjoy your time with your pets and hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Good New Year. If you want to ask me a question or raise a topic for this article, contact me by e-mail on j.haddow@live.co.uk or call where I work at Jacqui Paterson vets on 01642 604555. James Haddow, Veterinary Eye Consultant, GP and Saltburn resident.
Festive Foodie Fun! Saltburn Farmers’ Market Gets Set For Christmas Special Local foodies are in for another tasty treat, when Saltburn Farmers’ Market rounds off the year in style with a bumper Christmas Special on Saturday, 13th December. It’s the final event of 2014 in what has been another incredible year for the popular monthly Market. Highlights were being shortlisted as National Farmers’ Market of the Year, and welcoming thousands of people to the second Saltburn Food Festival on an incredibly busy day in August. Special guest chefs Sean Wilson, Sarah Muir and Richard Ingram all described the Festival as one of the best in the country, after the town’s Milton Street was transformed into a huge street market featuring over sixty of the North East and North Yorkshire’s best independent food producers. And now the Market is set to bring an early taste of Christmas to the seaside town – with one lucky shopper set to win a bumper Christmas Hamper made up of something from virtually every stall on the day itself. Market Manager Lorna Jackson said: “It’s been another really busy and enjoyable year here again in Saltburn, and we’re looking forward to ending the year on a high with our Christmas Special. The Market has just powered ahead and got better and better again this year, and the Food Festival this summer really was an amazing day.” Looking forward to the Christmas special, Lorna said: “Christmas is pretty much our favourite time of the year. We’ll have a bumper selection of great local food to tickle everyone’s tastebuds, and we’ve invited extra artists and crafters into the Market to ensure there are plenty of Christmas gifts for everyone to choose a perfect present for someone special. Our Christmas Market is always that little bit extra special for stallholders and shoppers alike, and we’re all 12
Farmers’ Market Christmas Hamper: Lorna Jackson with the type of Hamper up for grabs at Saltburn Farmers’ Market.
looking forward to a really enjoyable day.” Saltburn Farmers’ Market Christmas Special takes place on Saturday, 13th December between 9am-3pm. Based just outside Saltburn Railway Station near Sainsbury’s, a tasty mix of over 35 stalls will include a wide range of locally produced sausages, meat & game; fresh fruit & veg; wild mushrooms; garden herbs & garlic; freshly baked artisan bread; handmade cheese; Skinningrove wines & locally brewed beers; cakes & biscuits; ginger wine & gingerbread; gourmet scotch eggs; a gluten-free bakery; hot street food; chilli sauces; fresh coffee bar; hog roast; plus local art, crafts and much more besides. See Saltburn Farmers’ Market on facebook for further info. The Market then takes a winter break, before returning for a brand new season on Saturday, 14th March 2015.
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Jack and the Beanstalk 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 & 24 January 2015 more details in next month’s Talk of the Town
When Santa is coming to the Mine Santa has given notice that he will once again be visiting the Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum on Saturday, 6th and Sunday, 7th December 2014. He would like to see as many children as possible whilst he will be in his underground grotto between 10am and 3pm. Children visiting Santa will take an exciting trip with their parents down the North Drift, once used for hauling out the tubs of ironstone, but seasonally decked out with twinkling Christmas lights. And at the bottom of the drift where once the tunnels would have branched off they will meet Santa and his sleigh. Santa will ask the young visitors what they would like for Christmas and he also has a special treat from his famous large sack ready to offer them during their visit. Admission charges will be £3.00 and adults £2.00; all visitors will receive a drink and mince pie/cake. Whilst visitors wait to see Santa there are games, crafts and other activities to entertain. For further information please contact Jean the Education Officer on 01287 642877 (or email her on jean@ironstonemuseum.co.uk). Jean is also keen to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer with guiding, the education work, developing future events and join the enthusiastic volunteering team at the Museum.
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News and Views from the Valley The mild weather goes on and on. I was wondering what effect this might have on leaf fall and Autumn colours. I have now learned that leaf fall is determined by daylight and not by temperature. The tree grows a cork-like seal at the end of each twig which then cuts off nutrients to the leaves causing them to die. This mechanism is triggered by reduced daylight. When this has taken place, the green chlorophyll disappears leaving behind the yellow colour (which was there all along). Red colouring is created by sugars that have remained trapped in the leaves and they react with sunlight and cold. Brown colouring, in oaks and beech, is made by tannin waste in the leaves. Leaves sweat a lot of water while they are carrying out photosynthesis in summer. The tree soaks up water, passing it to the leaves which then send nutrients back into the tree. The tree has a harder job in cold weather lifting moisture up to the leaves so it shuts down. The tree lives on stored energy for the winter. So a dry late summer and a bright sunny autumn will make the best colour display and strong winds will strip the trees faster but the clock that regulates the whole process is set by light. Our wonderful little festival; “In the Light Garden” marked the ending of British Summer Time. Thank you to everyone who took part (over 300 people) because it was the participants who made it so special. It was just as we hoped it would be and we shall hold this event again next year. It was a dry warm evening and the only slight problem was a strong wind which prevented some items being lit or staying alight. However, that did not spoil the overall atmosphere; in fact some people regarded the challenge as part of the fun. It was our perfect kind of event; not costly to make or costly to attend and a decent contribution was made to the centre as well. Our next event is Santa’s Grotto on December 13th from 1 – 4pm. Because of various details which we had not resolved in
time we are doing this without the collaboration of the Miniature Railway. Hopefully, next year that can happen. Santa’s grotto tickets at £3.00 per child are limited to 50 and are available from the Top Shop, Upleatham Street and Eveline Brentano Flowers. You can also reserve them (subject to availability) through our Facebook page, our website or by contacting us directly. Sainsbury’s are providing the gifts (shhhh – don’t let children see this) and we are very grateful for their continued support. Sainsbury’s task team recently planted a whole load of baby trees on the top sloping bit of our site. The Woodland Trust donated the trees. We can keep these at a small shrubby level so as not to spoil the very lovely view down to the sea but the roots will hold the bank together when they become established and prevent soil erosion. The bushes will provide good habitat as well. Sainsbury’s task team also renewed the little gravel path below the picnic area. It was dug out, re lined and new gravel laid. A Tibetan cherry tree has also been planted at the top. This has been planted by the family of Ron and Mary Chapman. We are pleased to see the return of a Woodland Ranger’s article, written by Paul Murphy, to Talk of the Town. Whilst Paul’s group undertakes tasks within the valley as a whole, we do not have the benefit of a full time ranger employed by the local authority. Our entire managed area depends on volunteers for everything we undertake and hence we welcome new members with open arms! We look forward to more articles featuring the flora and fauna of our wonderful area. I personally have not given Christmas any thought as yet. Far too early for me, but I guess it is time to wish all our friends and supporters a Happy and Peaceful Christmas. Lorna Moone, Saltburn Friends of the Valley Ltd Visit us online at www.saltburnfriendsofthevalleyltd.co.uk Or call Woodland Centre 01287 622408
Charity Crafters Good News for Saltburn Charity Crafters Charities in the Marske area have received a cash boost as part of celebrations to mark a milestone anniversary. Yorkshire Building Society’s agency in Marske-by-the-Sea joined celebrations to mark 150 years of the Society helping people save for their futures and buy their first homes, by calling on members of the public to nominate charities to receive donations of £100. The Yorkshire Building Society Charitable Foundation marked the occasion by giving away £150,000 as part of its annual Make a Difference Week, and five charities in the local area have received a share of the anniversary donation. The charities benefitting, thanks to nominations from local residents received at the agency are: Charity Crafters, SARA, Huckins Family Appeal, South Tees Hospitals Charity and Winkies Castle. Saltburn Charity Crafters are all thrilled and very thankful for this donation as it will greatly help their work. The date for the next Charity Crafters drop in is Wednesday, 3rd December (and every 1st Wednesday) from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at The Workhouse (next-door to Ripping Yarns) in Dundas Street West. Please drop in and find out what we are doing and have a cuppa. We’re still busily knitting and crocheting and are now thinking of blankets, scarves, hats etc for the winter for anyone in need. How about some knitted toys for children? We can provide you with wool and needles 14
Nicki Armstrong of Yorkshire Building Society (on the left) presenting us with the cheque at the November meeting.
and also show you a selection of patterns to choose from. If you don’t have time to stay, but do enjoy knitting and crochet, we can find a good home for anything you make. If your family have grown up, we’d love you to knit or crochet for us. It doesn’t have to be knitting; how about making some cards for us to pass on? For further information please contact Angie on 01287 205153 (or email Kath at kath.west45@virginmedia.com).
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The Middleton Choir with guests Guisborough Citadel Salvation Army Band
Annual Christmas Concert at
Saltburn Methodist Church, Milton Street, Saltburn on Wednesday 10th December 7.00pm
Tickets £6 including seasonal refreshments available from Saltburn Health Shop, also 01642 479038, 01642 648594, 01642 477824, (01287 624622), choir members or at the door Do join us as we celebrate Christmas
Let them eat cake….. Actually, mince pies, on this occasion……. The occasion? The Renaissance Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 7th at 4pm in the Emmanuel Echo Hall. And the reason we are recalling Marie Antoinette’s famous words is linked to one of our guest artists – Rowan Pierce. As many readers of Talk of the Town will know, Rowan is a young Saltburn soprano, studying at the Royal College of Music in London. She was recently asked to undertake a rather unusual singing job for the Victoria and Albert Museum, who are curating an exhibition featuring a music stand believed to belong to Marie Antoinette. Rowan recorded an aria by one of Marie Antoinette’s favourite composers and visitors to the Museum will be able to press a button and hear it sung! No need to travel that far to hear Rowan – she is delighted to be singing with her musical family – the sparkly ladies of Renaissance – in a seasonal concert of classics and Christmas favourites on 7th December. She is equally delighted that her fellow guest artist is Bill Greenwood, a much-loved local baritone needing no introduction in our area. He continues to perform an eclectic repertoire of music, either as a solo artist or with small groups, and is very popular wherever he sings. Did we promise mince pies? We did – and mulled wine too… So don’t miss a Christmas treat with Rowan, Bill and Renaissance on 7th December, 4pm, at Emmanuel Echo Hall. Tickets cost £5, which includes the refreshments, and they are available from choir members, Sara Nelson at Saltburn Golf Club and they can also be purchased at the door. Come and start the Christmas season with songs and sparkle! Sue Pierce 15
Saltburn Slow and Steady Traditional Tune Session On Wednesday, 10th December and on the second Wednesday of each month from 7.30pm we invite musicians to join us at Saltburn House, Marine Parade, Saltburn TS12 1BX for a slow and steady traditional tune session. We play traditional tunes from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales and encourage playing tunes together. So if you enjoy playing a musical instrument and would like to play with others, then join us and we will break you in gently by playing the tunes slowly for you to pick up. From 9pm we may speed things up a bit. Our ‘official’ finish time is 10pm so we won’t keep you out too late if you have to get to work the next morning. Players of all instruments and abilities are welcome to join us. So dust off that fiddle, drag that flute out of the attic (or any other instrument hiding up there) and join us. A warm welcome awaits you at Saltburn House where you can also get a pint of good ale, soft drinks or tea, coffee etc. If you are interested or know of anyone who may be, please pass these details on. For more information do not hesitate to contact Angie on 01287 205153 (or email four.fools@virgin.net). We do send out a reminder so if you wish to be added to our mailing list please contact us. P.S. We also gather at Guisborough Rugby Club from 7.30pm on a Sunday night for a ‘nurdle’ before Guisborough Folk Club starts. 16
Saltburn, Marske & New Marske Parish Council Two minutes silence was observed at the beginning of the recent Parish Council meeting in remembrance of all those who had lost their lives in times of war. It was noted that the Parish Council’s Planning Committee had recommended that the Borough Council reject the outline planning application for residential development for up to 130 dwellings on the land south of Marske Road, Saltburn. The Committee had received 34 letters of objection from the public, which were forwarded to the Borough Council. Members were advised that the proposed development actually falls within the St Germain’s Ward and the Borough Council had made it clear that they would not allow representation from Saltburn Councillors on this issue. Members highlighted that Impetus Environmental Trust supports projects that recognise the importance of community involvement and can provide funding for non profit making groups for various projects which benefit the local community. Impetus are looking for applications for 2015 and the Parish Council have agreed to set money aside
in its budget to assist with the application process. Further details can be obtained by contacting Nicky Graves on email at impetus.trust@btconnect.com or 01642 673313. Simon Wilcock has been appointed as the new Parish Warden and Members wished him well in his new post. By the time this edition of Talk of the Town hits the door mats the Christmas Event in the town will have taken place, and hopefully the weather will have been favourable and the event will once again have been a success. At the time of writing, final preparations are being made and thanks are extended to the officers, businesses and volunteers without whose assistance and goodwill the event would not take place. On behalf of the Parish Council best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. Tracy Meadows (Clerk and RFO to the Parish Council) Tel: 01287 623477 Email: office@smnmpc.co.uk www.smnmpc.co.uk
David McCaffrey’s debut novel, Hellbound 60 literary agent rejections. That’s how many I received before I was fortunate enough to secure a publishing deal. After completing my debut novel ‘Hellbound’, I thought I would go the traditional route and try to get my novel published via a literary agent. I received a few ‘It’s great but not for us’ and plenty of ‘Thanks but no thanks!’ but no one was willing to give it any consideration. Then purely by accident I came across the crowd funding website Britain’s Next Bestseller. The concept is simple; submit your manuscript to them and if you are fortunate enough to have it accepted then you are set a specific pre-order target within a specific time period. Hit your preorder target and you secure a publishing deal. Since beginning on my journey as a writer, I have corresponded with many people and organisations in the writing business in order to get ‘Hellbound’ published, but BNBS were and remain the most supportive and collaborative people I have ever met and are, in my opinion, redefining the way books are published by allowing the reader the opportunity to choose which titles make it to the bookshelves. As part of your campaign, you have to utilise social media fairly comprehensively, particularly Facebook and Twitter to try and build a following and promote your book in order to secure pre-orders, but BNBS are with you every step of the way. I created book trailers, was heavily involved in the design of the book cover…basically BNBS assured that I was involved with every aspect of ‘Hellbound’ on its journey to be published. And I was fortunate enough to hit my target within my 12 week timeframe and be offered a publishing deal with
‘Hellbound’ now available on Amazon, Waterstones and all good on-line booksellers. This was only possible because of the support I received from friends, family and people locally from Redcar and Cleveland who were willing to pre-order a book from an unknown author. As a consequence of this, I have a book signing at Waterstones in Middlesbrough on 5th December, one at Guisborough Bookshop on 6th and a talk about Hellbound’s journey from paper to paperback at Norton Library as part of Norton Talks… on 13th December. Basically, it is a dream come true and hopefully people will enjoy taking a journey with the antagonist, Obadiah Stark! As for Hellbound, it is a psychological thriller that is best described as Silence of the Lambs crossed with Groundhog Day and introduces the reader to Obadiah Stark aka The Tally Man, who is executed at ADX Absolom, a death sentence watched by the world’s media, victim relatives and one investigative reporter, Joe O’Connell. Penning an account of Stark’s personal history and subsequent crimes in the hope of determining what elements make the sociopathic mind tick, Joe discovers clues and inconsistencies which cause him to investigate Stark’s execution. While this is happening in the real world, Obadiah Stark awakens to an afterlife where he has a wife and daughter bound to his childhood hometown; a reality which offers no escape. As scenes in this surreal landscape repeat, he is forced to submit to emotions he has never experienced before… and with them, a poisonous dose of morality. 17
Festive Season at The Cons It seems as if we have entered the Tardis and spun off into the future; the last I remember it was summer and now Christmas is so close we can hear sleigh bells ringing. We have a lot of Christmas cheer lined up. On Wednesday, 3rd we are having our popular Quiz and Bingo night; this will be a Christmas special with a buffet. By demand we are using both rooms and so able to issue 100 tickets, most of which have already been sold but if you want one of the last tickets see David Rigg or ask the bar staff. On Wednesday, 17th Julie Towel will be hosting a Christmas special of her regular quiz; no tickets needed but new teams are and will be welcome. On Saturday, 20th we are having a charity Karaoke night, hosted by Shaun Cook, for Barnardos, a wonderful organization that works tirelessly for vulnerable kids; this good cause is especially apt at Christmas. Wendy Shepherd, manager for child sexual exploitation for Barnardo’s both locally and nationally, is supporting this event. We will be doing another night in January for the same charity. A new venture starting in December is Sunday afternoon Traditional Jazz. Trevor Reedman of Staiths Jazz Festival fame is producing four gigs at the club starting with the legendary ‘Vieux Carre’ Jazzmen from 2pm till 5pm, (which just coincides with our happy hours), on Sunday, 21st December. Be sure to be there as the trial four gigs will be extended if we get sufficient bums on seats. Lined up for Christmas Eve at 7:30 will be carol singing around the piano with maestro Chris Jones plus free mince pies. The club will open Christmas day: see notice board for times. Boxing Day will be a ‘bring your own buffet’ with entertainment from the very talented Paul Morrison. Somewhere along the line we will produce Santa’s Grotto in the garden, watch the notice board for Santa visiting times. A traditional Xmas Draw with ten gallons of beer in prizes plus bottles of wine, pheasant and other prizes is arranged. The draw is 25p per go and the board is already up and running; the actual draw will happen on Saturday, 21st. As regular readers will know, Victor Meldrew and I, are die hard council sceptics, drifting in ever decreasing circles of disbelief at the outrageous cock ups, mismanagement and dodgy dealings of our respective democratically elected councils. Although I consider myself to be an ardent democrat, the system has some failings, one being the inability to sort good apples from bad and therefore treats them equally. For instance, if you bought a pound of apples and found you had got half good and half rotten, you would rightly demand your money back. However, we are supposed to accept a job lot of politicians, who need no
minimum education, ethical, health, or criminal record standards, to govern our lives for the next four or five years. We all love the Arthur Daley and Del Boy amiable rogue characters of television but why oh why do we repeatedly elect them to power? Before you put your mark on the next ballot form ask yourself two questions: would you buy a car off this person and do they qualify for your vote? Talking of sceptics, I have joined the growing number of Eurosceptics and reluctantly believe that we would be better off out of Europe unless we can negotiate a deal that would protect our borders, economy and legal system. However, this does not mean I will be voting UKIP, (would you buy a car from Nigel Farage?). The only party who have offered us a referendum on Europe and the only party that will or can deliver what the British public democratically want are the Conservatives. The new European Commission President JeanClaude Juncker is more dodgy than Del Boy but an awful lot more dangerous. He was prime minister of Luxembourg until he was forced to resign in a bizarre scandal involving illegal phone tapping by the Grand Duchy’s secret service. In May 2011, he told a meeting of the European Movement that he often “had to lie” and that eurozone monetary policy should be discussed in “secret, dark debates”. He also sparked controversy by suggesting that the eurozone economic policy was incompatible with democracy. Mr Juncker went on to play a leading role in the resurrection of the EU constitution in the form of the Lisbon Treaty and advised Gordon Brown, then Prime Minister, to mislead the British public over “transfers of sovereignty”. A report by a consortium of investigating journalists has alleged that firms such as Pepsi and Ikea made ‘sweetheart’ deals with his Luxembourg government to save billions in tax at the expense of other European countries including the UK. David Cameron and the Conservative Party strongly opposed his selection as European Commission….. TO NO AVAIL. At least he has some good points, he is reported to be a heavy smoker and drinker, a bit like Nigel then? So count me out of Europe and the dodgy dealers club. As always, I claim sole responsibility for the comments and remarks made here. If anyone wishes to make comment I will answer all emails sent to me. Other than that, I will be happy to explain and defend my comments over a friendly pint at the bar. Mike Sellars, Club President. Email mike.sellars@ntlworld.com This article financially supported by Saltburn Conservative & Unionist Club.
Saltburn Cons Club Our Events to entertain in December Wed 3rd Christmas Special Bingo & Quiz with buffet supper. From 8pm. By ticket £4 each. Wed 17th Julie’s Christmas Quiz, new teams always welcome. Sat 20th Karaoke for Barnados, non members welcome, start 8pm. Sat 20th after eight pm Christmas Draw. Sunday 21st, Sunday Jazz with ‘Vieux Carre’ Jazzmen’ from 2pm till 5pm. Christmas Eve Carols around the Piano with Chris Jones. Free Mince Pies. 7:30pm. Boxing Day, Paul Morrison entertains. Bring your our buffet to share. Every Tuesday night at 10 pm, Meat and bottle draw. Every Sun., 6pm, Beer Draw and Cash Rollover, (now £325 & increasing by £25 each week until won). Most Saturday afternoon meetings of ‘The Conmen’, Americana Musicians jam session. Also meetings of The Book Club, Saltburn Line Users Group, Camra, Residents Groups and others. Happy Hours:- Weekdays 5:30pm till 7:00pm, Saturday & Sundays 3:00pm till 5:00pm. All Beers still £2 Pint. 18
S.O.S. Update The ‘Save our Saltburn’ campaign against the Taylor Wimpey housing proposal west of the Saltburn boundary is gaining momentum. Both our MP, Tom Blenkinsop, and the Parish Council have voiced their objections to this unwanted planning application. A public meeting took place on Monday, 27th October in the Emmanuel Church Hall when over 100 residents listened to the S.O.S. campaign team chairman, Les Manship, present the scope of the material considerations which could be used for objection. Our residents then had their say in a constructive exchange and the meeting closed with a call for those who hadn’t already submitted an objection letter to the Borough planning department to do so by the deadline of 7th November. The excellent response is that 131 objection letters have been lodged. Support has also broadened to include the ‘action groups’ in Marske and New Marske who are equally determined to protect the integrity of their communities and stop urban sprawl into the strategic gap south of the railway line. No date is yet available for the Regulatory Committee to consider the outline planning application (R/2014/0631/00M) but expectation is that it will be early December. We shall be ready! The cumulative adverse impacts of this housing
proposal, significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against the National Planning Policy Framework. The Regulatory Committee should therefore be able to reject the application with confidence. Taylor Wimpey might then appeal to the Secretary of State but the political climate is reverting once again to favouring re-use of ‘brownfield’ sites and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council can readily demonstrate a 5 year housing supply without any development in the strategic gap between Marske and Saltburn. We thank all readers for their support to date in the fight to protect our precious green countryside. Watch out for the next update in January!
Building opportunities for young people across East Cleveland Saltburn’s Will Goodhand, Conservative parliamentary candidate, was delighted to pronounce the East Cleveland Apprenticeship Fair, held on 7th November, a success, with a hundred young people coming through the doors to see what opportunities are available locally. His thanks go to all the businesses who joined them, and to the Business and Education Minister Nick Boles who came to talk to students and businesses and hear how even more can be done to build opportunities for East Cleveland’s young people. Will said: “I shared with the Minister what I’ve learned from business surveys I’ve carried out across our area, and from a recent meeting with businesses on Skelton Industrial Estate, where I also got under the bonnet with recent apprentices at Rusty Bug Workshop.” Will continued: “It was really inspiring to welcome to the Fair young people with a range of different ambitions – and I would like to thank the range of businesses and providers who came to give them advice and opportunities, including Tees Components of Skelton, SABIC of Wilton, Sirius: York Potash, Whitby Fishing School, Shape Training, Learning Curve Skills, Middlesbrough College, Redcar & Cleveland College and Stockton Riverside College. “Finally a very special thank you to Prior Pursglove College for hosting the event – it wouldn’t have been possible without the college letting us use
their sports hall, as they also very kindly did for the Convention earlier this year where I invited businesses and training providers to tell me what they feel is needed from Government in terms of apprenticeship policy.” If you would like to be put in touch with any of the organisations who took part, Will is happy to make an introduction; and he’s eager to develop further ideas to extend the opportunities available to young people in East Cleveland, and to feed back to Ministers where more needs to be done. Contact Will on: will4msec@gmail.com. 19
Churches Together in Saltburn invite you to join them in their Christmas worship
Sunday 30th November 2014 10.00 am
Joint Advent Service
Parish Church
Sunday 14th December 2014 3.00 pm
Christingle Service Parish Church In aid of The Children’s Society
Sunday 21st December 2014 10.00 am 10.45 am 6.00 pm
Family Communion & Baptism Service Nativity Service Carols by Candlelight (United Service)
Parish Church Methodist Church Methodist Church
Christmas Eve: Wednesday 24th December 2014 5.00 pm 6.30 pm 7.00 pm 11.15 pm 11.30 pm
Crib Service Carols First Mass of Christmas Communion Service Midnight Communion
Parish Church Catholic Church Catholic Church Methodist Church Parish Church
Christmas Day: Thursday 25th December 2014 10.00 am 10.00 am 10.30 am
Christmas Worship Christmas Day Communion Family Mass
Methodist Church Parish Church Catholic Church
New Year’s Eve: Wednesday 31st December 2014 11.15 pm
Watchnight Service
Skelton Methodist Church
Church Locations and Contacts Parish Church of Emmanuel
Windsor Road
Parish Church Office
Upleatham Street 01287 622251
Methodist Church
Milton Street
01287 623245
Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church
Milton Street
01287 623619
20
01287 622007
What is it all about - being in Saltburn this Christmas? Is it in standing on Marine Parade, and quietly gazing out over the beautiful and frozen seaside vista? Or is it in admiring those Victorian apartments and houses decorated with seasonal hangings, where fires breathe warmth and light among glitzy trappings? For many in Saltburn it will be a happy time, if not without a little stress given the situation ‐ making sure the food, the drinks, the presents, the family, the friends… are all remembered in all the preparation. For others in Saltburn it will not be so happy a time, for their situation presents a different kind of stress ‐ little money and certainly some debt, inconsiderate friends or estrangement from family… they will try their best to forget, and hope to get through on less. But this Christmas, in your happiness or in your sadness, in your stresses — whether small or great, I encourage you to simply wait, and wait, and wait a little longer; and in your waiting to let your heart and your mind ponder: ‘What would change in my life if I put Christ back into Christ‐mas?’ ‘Could I find for myself the joy of the shepherds who ran to view the sight?’ ‘Could I discover for myself what caused the eastern sages to delight?’ ‘Could I allow myself this Christmas to be wonder struck amazed, for that is what happened to the multitude of angels who sang in the night and gazed?’ So, for me, for you, what is it all about ‐ being in Saltburn this Christmas? Rev’d Adam Reed – Vicar of Saltburn
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SALTBURN HEALTH FOODS CLOSED To all our customers who have supported us for the past 7 years, it is with much regret we are now closed. We would like to express our gratitude for all your kind thoughts and best wishes received. It has been an exciting shop to work in and we thank all our customers for their support and wish you all well. We would also like to especially thank Judith who has worked alongside us for 5 years. She has been invaluable to us and has always given her friendship, knowledge and time. Thanks Judith. Going forward I now have the opportunity to progress my professional career as a physiotherapist. In particular opening my own physiotherapy clinic within the next couple of months. Please look out for me as I will be offering free consultations (for a limited period). Good health to all. Regards, Trudy & Mike.
Hark, the Saltburn Angels Sing! Yes, it’s that time of year again: the Saltburn Songsters are performing their annual Christmas Concert right here in Saltburn at the Emmanuel Church on Friday, 12th December 2014 at 7:15pm (doors open at 6:45pm). Under the direction of Mr Daniel Matuszak, these ladies will bring the true spirit of Christmas to you through song and live music with traditional favourites like ‘Oh Holy Night’, ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ and ‘A Bit of Holiday Cheer!’ You are sure to be singing along with us. There might also be a few surprises thrown in too! Tickets are £7.00 each which includes light refreshments in the ECHO Hall at the interval and entrance into our big prize draw (Raffle will also be held). Tickets are available from 01642 486 300 / 07729 332 258 and choir members. Don’t miss your chance to get tickets so get them now – this is not a concert to be missed! Look forward to seeing all of you there. Dan Matuszak Chairman / Musical Director
SIGNALS BISTRO Festive Evening Dining Thurs, Fri & Sat 5.30-9.00pm Festive four course menu available from 27th November Additional evening dining available Sunday 21st, Monday 22nd & Tuesday 23rd December Full details and menu available on our website Booking essential
Tel: 07552 556648 www.signalsbistro.com 21
SALTBURN BLUES CLUB
Two gift-related pieces of news to start this month’s piece from me, and very appropriate too with Christmas just around the corner. Firstly, the ever-popular SEAVIEW RESTAURANT has come on board as a Saltburn Blues Club sponsor. A big thank you to Glenn. Live music is an important part of Saltburn’s calendar and support like this helps us continue to book quality acts. We’re still a fairly young club but month after month we’re enjoying very talented rising Blues stars as well as wonderfully experienced musicians too. Secondly, we’ve got a very exciting band for our Christmas gig on 27th December at our regular venue, Saltburn Cricket Club, on Marske Mill Lane. It’s WILLE AND THE BANDITS and the Cricket Club will be providing a FREE buffet so come and enjoy. A great night is guaranteed, perfect for keeping up the festivities between Christmas and New Year. Wille and the Bandits were one of the standout bands at Glastonbury. I don’t know about ‘Got to do Better’ (one of their excellent tracks) they’re doing very, very well as it is, touring Europe as well as the UK. Crisp, distinct vocals, super musicians, perfect for our Christmas do. The support that night is excellent too. It’s Blues Boy Dan Owen who was superb at the recent Carlisle Blues Festival. An extra treat this month is something different for us. Acoustic guitarist, singer/songwriter, PAUL LIDDELL, is booked for Wednesday, 10th December, UPSTAIRS in The Victoria (3-5 Dundas Street East). This will be a great midweek pick-me-up. Paul’s style has been likened to John Martyn and he’s at the easy listening end of the Blues spectrum. He is another Northern talent who’ll be right on your doorstep. Don’t miss out. He really is well worth coming to see. Our October main act, BLUE SWAMP, began their set with the brilliant and sure-fire winner, Love Potion No. 9. These guys really are seasoned campaigners. They know their Blues. They’re skilful and confident and the banter between numbers is funny. Everyone was having a very good time and then – Wow! Things went up another level as they played their version of ‘Heard It Through The Grapevine’. It was a totally superb take on this classic. One of those show stoppers. The second set continued to deliver and with an
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understanding that comes with lots of experience, Blue Swamp finished with three numbers that filled the dance floor and left us all feeling we’d had a really great time. If you are planning your Christmastime festivities, put the Blues Club in your diary. Give it a go. You’ll be warmly welcomed and I know you’ll enjoy it. There really is nothing like live music. Don’t forget, the buffet on the 27th December, our Christmas gig, is free! Find all our details at www.saltburnbluesclub.co.uk and our facebook page. MERRY CHRISTMAS and a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR to you all. Harry
Help! Your local Playgroup needs you! Little Nippers is in desperate need of willing volunteers to help out on Monday and Wednesday mornings, either in the kitchen or in the group. We need people to help set up and put away. If you can help, even if it is only for a few hours each month, we would love to hear from you. So, if you love spending time with young children, painting, glueing, singing, making music or reading stories, or even simply making drinks, then please contact Little Nippers Playgroup on
01287 624575 We have spaces in December for babies and newcomers to the town
BOOK CORNER Come and see our great range of Christmas books!
Fiction Non-fiction Cut-price Books Children’s Books Ordering Service Gifts for Book-lovers Open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 4.30pm 1 Regency Buildings, Station Square, Saltburn
01287 348010 www.bookcornershop.co.uk
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4 People Not Profit present
‘The UK Gold’
4 People Not Profit’s film night ‘Open your mind’ returns with ‘The UK Gold’. The film takes a powerful swipe at the British Empire behind the white gloves, and tells the story of a contemporary crisis and an ancient practice, which shows how deep deception is ingrained in our proudest institutions and traditions. The film will be screened as usual upstairs in The Marine, Saltburn and will be on Thursday, 18th December, Doors at 7pm and the film starts at 7.30pm. With time for discussion after the film, and as ever the event is free entry. This is the kind of film to get the blood boiling and the steam hissing out of your ears. Campaigning journalist Mark Doone has constructed an ambitious and admirably clear assault on the UK’s lamentable record in the tax avoidance industry, zeroing in on the unsavoury role played by the City
of London and its institutions – not just in this country, but in far more desperate international territories too. Donne’s film points out the major features of the tax avoidance landscape: tax havens, brass plates, capital flight, crown dependencies, and the like. It soon becomes clear that the avoiders’ best weapon is silence. Operating under the media radar, and taking advantage of the jurisdictionhopping only the super-rich are capable of, this specialised skill set liberates a staggering amount of money from national treasuries, whichever way you look at it. “Fascinating, disturbing and ultimately, gripping.” Screen International. “A shining piece of film-making on the darkness at the heart of the City... this is a film no one should avoid.” - The Daily Mirror.
Praise for the Zetland’s flag
Cheveux Hair Salon
Cheveux Hair Salon would like to wish all of our very loyal customers a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Also a big Thank You for everyone’s continued support. We look forward to seeing you all in the future. 24
The Zetland has received a pat on the back from a councillor, who was impressed with the apartments’ management company replacing the flag-pole. “You have restored Redcar and Cleveland’s best building to its original glory,” wrote Councillor Steve Kay, of Lockwood ward, in the Gazette on 3rd November. Chris Robinson, of the Zetland’s management company, said the pole had been replaced over a two-year period after leaks were discovered at the top of the 150-yearold former hotel overlooking Huntcliff. He said it had cost around £3,000. Now the residents plan to install Victorian lamps “to bring this listed building back to its former glory.” He hoped the lamp work would be done by the end of this winter. The management company is made up of volunteers from among the 30 apartment-owners.
At Ryedale Auctioneers, we have fortnightly general sales, with live internet bidding. We also have Specialist Sales, Antique & Fine Art Sales, Militaria & Sporting Sales and Railwayana & Toy Sales. We also do house clearances, and have our own collection/delivery service. We provide valuations for probate, insurance and sales.
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Divas of Bollywood
Exciting news for all theatre goers - this winter Saltburn Theatre has the pleasure of hosting a brand new theatrical dance production, Divas Of Bollywood. An exhilarating dance spectacular which promises to deliver a pinch of Indian spice to the cold North Eastern nights. Divas of Bollywood is an exploration through dance of the Indian film industry’s greatest stars and starlets with electrifying dance moves and tunes that are guaranteed to get your toes tapping. International choreographer Zoobin Surty has been working with dance companies across the North of England to create this vibrant production which promises something for everyone. Originally from Mumbai, Zoobin has lived in the UK for 12 years and most recently has been bringing his expertise in Classical Indian and Contemporary dance to the residents of Saltburn. Zoobin says: “Saltburn itself is beautiful and it’s rejuvenating being by the sea. The Saltburn crowd has altogether a different energy – it’s something to do with the sea salts!” Having held auditions at Saltburn Community Hall in September, Zoobin has recruited 45 Saltburn residents to take part in the show. Two of the dancers describe their experience: “Zoobin made the auditions and the rehearsals really good fun. I’ve never done dancing like Bollywood before, I did Egyptian a few years ago which was great, but this is so energetic! The music is wonderful and you leave rehearsal with a bounce in your step.” – Juli Fraser. “I can safely say this is a challenge, albeit an exciting and exotic one. We are so lucky to have such a gifted and experienced choreographer in Zoobin, who has himself 26
danced in Bollywood movies. The dance brings with it a sense of camaraderie, community and passion and above all, it’s great fun! Look out Saltburn, East meets West!” – Margaret Guy-Jobson. The aspiring Saltburn dancers will be joining forces with Zoobin’s other dance cohorts from Leeds and York for the premiere showing of Divas of Bollywood at Saltburn Community Theatre on 20th December before it moves to the West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds this summer. Tickets are on sale now from www.saltburnarts.co.uk at the price of £12.00. Divas of Bollywood is great fun for all the family so book early to avoid disappointment! Unleash your inner DIVA!
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Sunday, 9th November 2014 Remembrance Day for the fallen heroes of the conflicts of war I have a relative on the Saltburn memorial. His name is Arthur Ernest Hinchley, and he was my Great Uncle. I was told of this some years ago by my mother whose maiden name was also Hinchley. During the past year I have become interested in the family tree with the help of two cousins, Jackie Bashford and Debbie Brown. We recently had a meeting with members of the Pocket Watch team, where Jackie was able to provide a photo of Arthur and his headstone in the Lijssenthoek Cemetery in Belgium. This year being 100 years since the start of WW1, arrangements were made to lay a wreath at Saltburn memorial for our relative. Jackie was the contact for this, making all the preparations and conversing with others to make sure all went according to plan on the day. Jackie and myself nominated my brother Barry to be the nominee to perform the laying of the wreath (without his prior knowledge, I might add); luckily he agreed to this duty. Whilst standing waiting to be called upon to perform this responsible role, I enquired if we could both implement this task together and was asked if I would like to perform the duty of laying the wreath for all Saltburn Fallen heroes, which I was pleased to do. I had never done anything like this before; I don’t think Barry had either, so it was a new experience for both of us.
Above L-R: Jackie, Barry, Myself Sue & Debbie
We were lucky with the weather as it was a dry day, so it was well attended by the people of Saltburn, small local groups, and individuals to lay wreaths in remembrance and possibly others who were visiting the area. Organisational skills are hugely required to bring everyone together to perform a larger task, so I would like to praise all the people involved in making the ceremony come together as a whole. Sue Cook & Family
Festive Cheer at Teesside Hospice! We opened our Teesside Hospice shop in Saltburn back in summer 2013 and what a year it’s been! Whether you’ve volunteered your time, donated pre-loved items or been a customer in our shop, we’d like to say a big thank you for all your support so far. It is only through the support of people like yourself that we are able to continue to provide our specialist palliative care, free of charge to the local community. From original vintage clothing to beautiful antique brooches, our ‘Vintage Wardrobe’ department has proved to be extremely popular in Saltburn. So in keeping with the theme of reworking and using pre-loved items, in the run up to Christmas our staff and volunteers will be busy upcycling tinsel and any other decorations kindly donated to us and transforming them into beautiful Christmas wreaths that can be purchased in-store. We also have the Tree of Life in our Saltburn shop this year. Whether you wish to celebrate the life of your loved one, take a moment to honour their memory or simply send a festive wish to someone you care about, the Tree of Life gives you the chance to do this whilst symbolising the spirit of Christmas. Simply pop by our shop, make a donation and complete a dedication tag to be placed on the branches of the tree. All supporters of the Tree of Life campaign are invited to attend a special service held at Teesside Hospice at 7pm on Monday, 22nd December, where loved ones will be remembered. This will be an outdoor event, so please wrap up warm! 28
Please phone 01287 622008 to make a booking
Valley Players Valley Players are looking forward to starting on two brand new productions in January. Meanwhile we would like to wish all our members, friends and supporters a wonderful Christmas and a creative and inspiring 2015. Djenane
Nigel’s VIPs!
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Winkies Castle Folk Museum 162 High Street Marske by the Sea TS11 7NB
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Catching Up with the Children at Saltburn Primary School Having heard of several exciting events at Saltburn Primary School this autumn, I called in recently to learn more. I was able to talk to Mrs Caroline Chadwick, Head of School and to several of the junior children about the interesting activities they’ve been involved in. Owen Agar and Rosa Hudson were buzzing about the Year 6 October residential at Carlton-in-Cleveland Outdoor Centre. They stayed for four days in dormitories and took part in orienteering, den building and the Leap of Faith assault course. “The instructor was really good,” said Owen. “He gave me the confidence to have a go at the Leap of Faith and I found I could do it!” Rosa was pleased that no-one minded if the children got muddy or wet and she was happy to get involved in cleaning her equipment thoroughly at the end. “My best activity was weaseling,” she remembered. “We had to climb up a hill with rocks at the top, with waterproofs and helmets on. Then we had to get through the rocks and it was good fun.” There were evening activities as well and both agreed they’d been kept too busy to miss home. Mrs Chadwick added: “The residential experience is part of the building up of relationships between the class and their new teacher and between the children themselves. Taking part in the challenges gives the children a lot of confidence and the responsibilities they are given, such as making their own beds and having their dormitories inspected, increases their independence.” Executive Headteacher, Mrs Ruth Mayes and last year’s Year 5 teacher, Miss Watts, visited and everyone was thrilled to hear from the Carlton staff how exceptionally wellbehaved the Saltburn children had been. Next in line were Year 6 pupils Jacob Hollingworth and Cameron Wood, ready to tell me about the recent success of the school hockey teams. The two teams have been taking part in the East Cleveland Cluster Tournament and were undefeated in nine matches, in which they met teams from eleven other primary schools. “They didn’t concede a single goal,” added Mrs Chadwick proudly. The teams, made up of girls and boys, will now compete this winter at Tees Valley level. Teacher Mr Allan Fishpool is preparing them and Learning Support Assistant, Mrs Shirley Lillystone is driving them to matches in the school minibus. Jacob explained: “I like football and hockey is similar, but not as competitive. There’s lots of running around and you can use your skills with the ball. I like being part of the team and the parents who watch hockey are nice.” Cameron said: “I like to do sports and run a lot. I enjoy getting involved and calling for passes. There’s time to talk to the team,” and yes - he’s the Captain. Well done all players and Good Luck in your Tees Valley matches. Year 3 pupils, Patrick Svarc-Jeffs, Eve Sainsbury and Harris Windell were keen to explain the Family Learning Day they have been involved in, to celebrate the end of their topic on Saltburn last half-term. In a group of seven children, Patrick worked on a sculpture of Henry Pease. “We used plastic bottles, metal and foil, a light bulb and a door handle!” he said. Mr Gibson, Head of School at Huntcliff and Technology teacher, came down specially to see it and declared himself very impressed.
Eve’s mum was able to come and see her making a collage of paper and tissue to create images of Saltburn. Her group made a pier using only twenty art straws. “I like different crafts and drawing and getting messy,” admitted Eve. Harris made a picture of people in boats. “It was really fun, because I like working with glue too,” he said and his mum was there to watch him. “Family Learning Days give an opportunity for the children to ask any family member to come and see them working, often on Art and Design and Technology activities, but also on Literacy and Numeracy tasks. The Days build relationships between home and school and the extra adults can offer more skills to extend the children’s work,” said Mrs Chadwick. “The children love the celebration of so many weeks of work on a particular topic.” An exciting event which involved all the Primary children was an October assembly which was attended by three times Olympian long-jumper, Chris Tomlinson of Middlesbrough. He told them about his beginnings and how he’s prospered by working hard. He was promoting a charity, Sports for Schools, which he’s involved with and this helps upcoming talented youngsters to develop their skills. Richard Morris, Campus Governor, attended the assembly and commented: “The children thoroughly enjoyed it and were clearly inspired by the presence of an elite athlete.” They went on to hold a sponsored event, which raised £1535 for the charity. Classes from Year 1 - Year 6 took part in twenty minute fitness sessions as their contribution. “Part of the proceeds - £572 - came back to the school,” said Mrs Chadwick, “and we plan to buy a trophy cabinet with it, so that we can display the sporting cups that the Primary children have won.” It sounds as though there’ll be lots of them! Rosemary Nicholls 31
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
by the Rev’d Adam Young (Curate of Emmanuel Church)
These days it is rare to find people with names that still mean something to us because many of them are names from other languages. For example, my name Adam is a Hebrew word for 'man' or 'earth creature' and is tied to the idea of red clay like soil and indeed blood. My Mother's name is Jennifer which comes from the Cornish and means 'fair enchantress', and ultimately derives from Proto‐Celtic languages. A few people today do have names that still mean something if put in a sentence, for example a girl called Faith or Grace. Boys’ names that mean something in English are rarer but I do know someone called Ransom. In the Bible names always mean something ‐ people are named based on why they were born or what the birth meant to the parents. They are named after hopes, dreams, and prophecies. Names were considered important and powerful things and during major events some people would have their name changed to reflect a bigger change in and around them. For example Jacob, which means 'holder of the heel' or 'supplanter' after how he was born grasping his brother's heel and who lived up to that name by supplanting by deception his brother as the heir of his father's blessing, becomes, after a whole night wrestling with The Angel of the Lord (Jesus), Israel which means 'he who wrestles with God.' Just as human names in the Bible mean things and are important so are the names given to God, either by Himself or by those praying to and worshipping Him. This Advent season at Emmanuel Church we have a sermon series looking at some of these names. In fact, Emmanuel is a case in point ‐ Emmanuel means 'God is with us' and thus our Church is literally 'God is with us Church/Assembly.' We will conclude this sermon series with this very name on Christmas Day; the day we celebrate Jesus ‐ God ‐ literally and physically coming to be with us as He was born to the Virgin Mary. But there are many other biblical names for God, and along with Emmanuel we will be looking at the following four on consecutive Sundays leading up to Christmas Day: Sunday 30th November: Yahweh ‐ 'I AM who I AM, I will be what I will be' God in His essence, completely self‐reliant, completely enigmatic, completely other yet choosing to reveal Himself to us. Sunday 7th December: El Shaddai ‐ 'God is all powerful and all sufficient' nothing is too great for Him and there is nothing He cannot satisfy. Image Sunday 14th December: Yahweh Jireh ‐ 'The Lord who sees all and provides all' the One we cannot hide from and yet despite s e e i n g even our darkest thoughts provides us with salvation through Jesus. Sunday 21st December: Yaweh Nissi ‐ 'The Lord my Banner' the God who I follow and who gives me courage, who gives me a c a u s e and a path, the God I will proclaim to the ends of the earth. I hope that both now and in the weeks to come these studies in the names of God will open your eyes more and more to His majesty and the full scope of His love, His presence, His power. I hope and pray that it will set your hearts on fire with love for God and spur you on in prayer as you seek after the God who created everything that is. May his blessings be with you this Christmas.
CHILDREN’S SOCIETY CHRISTINGLE SERVICE
Sunday 14th December at 3pm Emmanuel Church
Come and make a Christingle and support the important work of the Children’s Society across the UK, as they help disadvantaged, lonely and abused children. Sundays at Emmanuel Church: 9.00am & 10.45am services with refreshments served from 10.10am Tuesdays at Emmanuel Church: 9.30am service with refreshments served from 10.15am Emmanuel Church: Tel: 01287 622251 / Email: emmanuelsaltburn@hotmail.co.uk / www.saltburnparishchurch.co.uk
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Emmanuel Church Hall, Macnay Street, Saltburn Tuesdays at 5.00pm or 7.00pm.
Telephone Stevie on
01642 474920
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SALTBURN STORES 41 Upleatham Street TS12 1LR karen.saltburn@gmail.com
Tel 01287 622518 Fresh Fruit and Veg Bread & cakes delivered daily from Breadbasket Groceries etc. Bothams of Whitby delivered Fridays. Fish delivered Fridays, order by Wednesday. Fresh Pies, Sandwiches, hot & cold drinks. Logs and kindling Xmas stock available Gifts, Cards, Wrapping paper Wreaths in stock soon Xmas Hampers You pick/We pack and can deliver (in local area) free delivery over ÂŁ5 (excluding cigarettes) COME IN AND HAVE A BROWSE WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU 34
Thanks Saltburn
We would like to express our thanks to the people of Saltburn and beyond who supported the wonderful ‘Musical Extravaganza’ organised by Caroline Scales which took place in Emmanuel Church on 10th October. The audience was welcomed by Tees Valley Congolese Drummers, before being entertained by the beautiful voices of local choirs: The White Rose Singers, the Middleton Singers and Renaissance. The evening provided an opportunity to showcase the talents of harpist Sarah Patterson and jazz pianist James Harrison and was rounded off with an amazing performance by Earthbeat, which both inspired and moved those watching. The evening raised a fantastic ÂŁ1,400! Not only was this a feast of entertainment by gifted performers, it demonstrated that in the current political climate where asylum seekers are being scapegoated for economic and social injustices, there are communities who understand why people fleeing persecution need protection and are willing to welcome them and treat them with dignity and respect. Many thanks to those who supported this event and in doing so sent a message of hope to some of the most vulnerable in our society. Pete Widlinski 35
Saltburn Animal Rescue Association A small charity seeking to rescue and re-home cats and dogs, Tel: 01642 488108 (weekdays only, 10am to 2pm). SARA has many dogs and cats that need new homes. All are clean, healthy, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Hello readers. I’m Abe the cat. In my time I’ve had a very eventful life living on the streets, but living like that isn’t ideal for a cat’s health. We need a loving home and a warm lap. Fortunately I was found by SARA. I was in pretty poor condition when they rescued me; I have a bald patch on my tail thanks to an injury! I am a very affectionate boy who needs some TLC but will be a very happy lap cat. They tell me that I’m lovely and calm, as well as being gorgeous too. I am about 6 years old and I have a long fluffy black coat and greenish eyes. I am a very affectionate boy who needs a quiet home where he can get lots of cuddles and love. It’s not just me looking for a home this month as Flash the dog needs help too. He arrived at SARA with a bad leg injury that has been operated on. He is a big loveable puppy for whom we are desperately looking for a
home where he can get the love and attention that he deserves as he is unable to go for long walks. He is good with other dogs but they would have to be of a quiet nature as he just wants to play but can’t because of his leg, bless him! Flash is a very handsome sandy coloured lad, he looks a bit like one of those Egyptian dogs that decorate the pyramids. He is only 1 year old and he badly needs a new loving home. Flash is a wonderful dog who is a big puppy, he is very, very affectionate and loves nothing more than cuddles. He has basic training and is good with people and other dogs. Flash has a leg injury which means that he does need to go to a home that understands his needs whilst he recuperates. For more information about Flash please contact the centre.
SARA fundraising events during December The next monthly meeting of SARA will be held in the TocH premises, Albion Terrace, Saltburn, on Wednesday, 3rd December, at 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Saturday, 6th December – SARA will be holding their Christmas Fayre at Marske Hall, Redcar Road, Marske (formerly Sir Leonard Cheshire Home) from 10am to 1pm. Come along with friends and family. There will be sherry and mince pies and other refreshments. Stalls will include tombola, books, pet stall and others. All proceeds will go to helping all the animals in our care, and will ensure they will have a very happy Christmas. Sunday, 7th December – Our popular Carols at Foxrush Farm, Kirkleatham Lane, Redcar, will be held from 2pm to 3.30pm. Coffee, tea and mulled wine will be available. Bring along your family, friends and pets to meet the members and animals of Foxrush. There is plenty of parking on the Foxrush field. Advance Notice: Once again SARA will be 36
holding their New Year’s Day Dip and braving the waters of the North Sea. This will take place at Saltburn Pier starting at 11am. All money raised will go towards the welfare of the animals at Foxrush Farm. This is always a popular event when everyone, including the dogs, enjoy themselves. So please come along whether you wish to take part or just join in the fun. Sponsorship forms will be available from Foxrush Farm or the SARA Charity shop in Guisborough. For more information ring Foxrush Farm, Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm on 01642/488108 (or visit our website www.s-a-r-a.org.uk). With Christmas approaching so quickly, I would like to thank everyone who has helped SARA in any way, especially for their support and generosity. This has greatly helped with the ongoing improvements at Foxrush and also enables us to continue with the work needed to help the animals in our care. Best wishes for Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year. Sheila Green
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Talk of the Town’s monthly
Pride of Saltburn Award
The winner of this month’s Pride of Saltburn is Jo Greathead. Jo was nominated by Ingrid Salomonsen of the Friends of the Valley. About Jo, she says, “I would like to nominate Jo Greathead as Pride of Saltburn for her voluntary work for Saltburn Friends of the Valley Ltd. Jo has given her time, skills and laughter to anything she sets her mind to including weed clearing, digging, bulb planting and seed sewing, painting the viaduct (not the real thing! - the mural of it in the shelter opposite the Woodlands Centre), fantastic tea and coffee making, cleaning, and glue and tissue sticking onto jam jars to make lanterns. Her son in law unblocked the sink in the Woodlands Centre, which was a very, very disgusting job, and her son, daughter and grand children have painted the beautiful flowers at the base of the viaduct, and Tom, her son, is a wiz watering with our extra, extra long hose!” Thank you Jo, and your family, for being you, the Pride of Saltburn. Every month, a £25 bunch of flowers, kindly donated by Eveline Brentano’s Florists, is awarded to someone in Saltburn who has earned admiration, gratitude and love for whatever reason. Talk of the Town invites nominations from you, the readers, to chose whom you would like to receive recognition and a bunch of flowers. Send your nominations to Talk of the Town’s postbag at Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, Cleveland, TS12 1AQ or email Ian (talkofthetown@tyasi.freeserve.co.uk). (Please include your name, phone number and the reason you are nominating the person of your choice.) Please also confirm with the nominee that they are willing to receive the award (many people feel shy about it). All the nominations will be read and kept for future use, so even if your choice doesn’t win this month, they might do so next time.
Try something different at Grasers
Fresh Cranberries Cranberries are native to most countries in the colder northern hemisphere but different species are cultivated in Europe and the USA. Their preferred habitat is acidic bogs! They are woody, creeping vines or small shrubs but don’t grow tall. Cranberries are traditionally made into sweetened sauces for feasts but the raw berry is now regarded as a superfood. Many of the supermarket cranberry juices and sauces have added artificial sweeteners or excessive amounts of sugar, and artificial flavourings, but Grasers sell the naturally good, raw, fresh cranberries. Research into the possible health benefits of cranberries is still on going but they are known to be rich in vitamins and other micronutrients and to have anti-cancer properties. 39
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Saltburn Theatre secured funding through the ‘People’s Millions’ competition last year to the tune of £50,000. There has been a full refurbishment of the theatre seating, new carpets and general re‐decoration. We have upgraded our sound and lighting facilities. As a community theatre, it is available for hire and is already well used by local amateur theatre groups as well as playing host to touring theatre companies. Call our admin office for further details (01287 624997).
A new initiative that our theatre has been involved in is that our venue was selected to be part of the REACH touring programme. This is all about bringing new work to the North with three new pieces of work a year over the next three years. ‘Thirsty’ takes place on 4th December followed by Kicking and Screaming from the Tangled Feet theatre company on March 22nd 2015. The Paper Birds present THIRSTY @ 7.30pm Live music and booze-based confessions; an entertaining and thoughtful look at ‘Booze Britain’ from one of the UK’s best loved theatre companies. Tickets £10 Buy one full price bring a friend for free (Limited availability).
Tangled Feet present KICKING AND SCREAMING @ 7.30pm
In this fast, funny and physical new play, award-winning theatre company Tangled Feet take a sideways look at how we cope with our children – and how our parents coped with us. A perfect night out for anyone who's experienced the minefield that is family. Early Bird tickets: £8 – Standard £10
The theatre also plays host to the Saltburn Film Club screenings and we have some great films coming in the New Year.
Thursday 29th January
Thursday 12th February
Thursday 26th February
Saltburn Community Theatre, Albion Terrace, Saltburn by the Sea, TS12 1JW Online tickets www.saltburnarts.co.uk
e-mail:arts@saltburnarts.co.uk
Box Office 01287 624997 41
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100 Voices “let it snow”
This year Jeanette Wainwright and the 100 Voice Singers will be performing their Christmas concert in the Methodist Church, Saltburn. This year’s programme will include: Your favourite Christmas songs, Away in a Manger, Gaudete, Let it Snow, O Little Town of Bethlehem, John Rutter’s Star Carol, Gospel, Moon River, Leonard Cohen and Beatles songs and many more. At the interval mince pies, Christmas punch and hot and cold drinks will be served. The proceeds will be donated to Free Your Voice which is a Saltburn based non-profit making organisation committed to bringing community singing to vulnerable members of society who would not otherwise have that opportunity. One beneficiary is the Kirkleatham Special School. A member of staff from the Kirkleatham School gave positive feedback stating that “The children were willing to push themselves beyond their shy, inhibited selves and eventually sang, danced and performed with smiles in front of a large audience. They now are able to throw themselves into fresh challenges.” The other organisation benefiting from this year’s concert will be Building Bridges which is based at the TOC H Saltburn (Building Bridges is a day centre for adults with learning difficulties). The show is on Saturday, 20th December and starts at 2pm (doors open 1.30pm) Tickets are £4.00 available from Book Corner, Saltburn (or on the door). 42
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Santa wants to help find homes for Preloved toys? As Santa prepares to make his annual visit underground at the Cleveland Ironstone Mining Museum on Saturday, 6th and Sunday, 7th December 2014 the Museum staff and volunteers are busy making arrangements. As part of the preparations local residents are being invited to donate toys in good condition which have been outgrown or ‘previously loved’ to the Museum. During Santa’s visit it is planned that these pre-loved toys can find a new loving owner, whilst helping generate much needed income for the small independent Museum. Anyone wishing to drop off any such toys can do so at the Museum on Mondays and Thursdays between 10am and 3pm, or phone the Museum for other times. Jean, the Museum’s Education Officer, said, “This is my third Christmas at the Museum and it still seems like the entire year is a planning period for the next Christmas. Volunteers have already been clearing out space, ordering the Christmas tree, fishing out decorations and checking the landing lights for the reindeer. It’s unfortunate that we don’t have sufficient space for the reindeer – I guess in times gone by they would have stayed in the stables for the mine’s horses under Loftus market place?” Santa will be in his underground grotto between 10am and 3pm. Children will be able to tell Santa what they would like for Christmas and will receive an early Christmas present. Admission charges will be children £3 and adults £2; all visitors will receive a drink and mince pie/ cake and children will receive a present from Santa. Whilst 44
waiting to descend underground visitors can browse the cake and other stalls, try out seasonal crafts, and have a go on the tombola and other games. For further information please contact Jean the Education Officer on 01287 642877 (or email her on jean@ironstonemuseum.co.uk). Jean is also keen to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer with the education work, developing future events, work in the reception/shop, guide, work with artefacts and join the enthusiastic volunteering team at the Museum.
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CHOCOLINI'S NEWS NUGGETS It’s nearly here! Are you Ready? If not there is still time... We have Hampers, Boxes, Bags Santas, Reindeers, Snowmen, Sleighs, chimney pots and... not forgetting those Pesky Penguins! Yes they are here too! Our Christmas Continental Range looks Spectacular and tastes even better! We will be closing at 2pm on Christmas eve and will re‐open on Wednesday, 7th January so our Elves can have their well‐earned rest. We wish all our lovely Customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy new Year.
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The Countryside Ranger and Volunteers Hello and welcome to this, my first time in a while of writing this article… So who is this new guy then? Well, let me introduce myself, my name is Paul Murphy and I am the Countryside Ranger for Redcar, Marske, Saltburn and New Marske. Some of you may remember me from my time as the site Ranger in Saltburn Valley. I am responsible for the volunteer groups in this area including, Friends of Errington Wood, Saltburn Countryside Volunteers, Foxrush Farm Community Woodland Volunteers, Kirkleatham Museum Grounds Volunteers and also Fox Covert Task Day Volunteers. Saltburn News During the next couple of weeks the volunteers and I will be working hard to thin back some of Rifts Wood’s less native trees, and create a few woodland glades in which to allow the native flowering plants a chance to thrive. So hopefully come the early summertime any visitors will have a much enhanced walk along the valley paths & Cleveland Way. We will also be working hard to reinstate some of the less used paths to open them up so all visitors can fully explore the woodlands and the more formal areas. Recent work has included path maintenance and strimming in the Community Orchard. Planned tasks include continuing the hedge-laying around Millfield Meadow, which is situated adjacent to the Viaduct, at the bottom of Marske Mill Lane. Wildlife News Going for a walk along the Valley’s Skelton Beck, I was amazed at the variety of wildlife I saw. I was lucky enough to follow a pair of dippers which were playing a game of hide and seek; hopefully, they will be a breeding pair. The habitat is perfect for them, fast moving sections of water which tumbles over stones provides a great feeding opportunity for them throughout the year, stonefly and their larvae are their favourite snack. A kingfisher was also seen and they have historically nested along the beck so once again fingers crossed on that one.
As expected though, wildlife sightings have not been too plentiful mainly due to the time of year, but then again it has been a pretty strange year weather wise, as I sit here writing this and looking out of the window you would think it was an early spring day. One thing I am keen to do is to record all that I see around the site, including:- plants, flowers, small mammals, fungi, woodland birds, lichen, butterflies etc. This is important for many reasons. Firstly, we get to go out on site and do lots of exploring, though more importantly it gives us a chance to see what we have here and use this information for different purposes. We can use sightings and recording as an indicator to our management plan, we can find out if we are successful in our aims of producing an area rich in biodiversity, and nationally we can record the movement of certain species of animals. We hear every day the concerns over global warming but never really get a true picture of how this will affect ourselves and the area around us. We have carried out regular butterfly surveys from Marske Mill Lane down to the Meadow and Community Orchard during April to October as part of a national survey with Butterfly Conservation. Next year we are planning to put out a light trap in order to identify the moth species in the area. So this is where we ask for your help in recording all that you see around you as you are walking through the woodland. Saltburn task days continue throughout the year every Friday; we meet at the centre at 10.00am and continue through till 3.00pm. Recently a reception was held by the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland Council to thank the Countryside Volunteers for their work. The Leader of the Council stated that, owing to financial cuts the local authority would be unable to maintain all the open spaces without the help of the local volunteer groups. For more information, contact paul.murphy@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk For Volunteering opportunities, contact Karen.preston@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
Saltburn Bowls Club Awards Night The culmination of the 2014 season was celebrated by the Saltburn Bowls Club on Saturday, 1st of November in Saltburn Cricket Club by 100 guests including members, family and friends. During this hugely enjoyable social event trophies were awarded to winners of various competitions held over the season. A pie and pea supper was served by “Shorts” of Skelton in order to feed the “inner man” (or woman !). After this many guests took to the dance floor encouraged by the music provided by well known local group “Old School” for those with less terpsichorean ability or aspirations a light hearted quiz was provided. The bowls club would like to express their gratitude to The Cricket Club, Old School, Shorts and especially to Rita Beadle for a very successful evening. We now look forward to next season which will commence in April 2015 and welcome any new members who would like to join our vibrant, friendly and active club. No experience necessary as coaching is provided. If you are interested call Bryan 01642 511259 for further information. Philip Chinn (Saltburn Bowls Club Public Relations Officer) 48
Clock tower repairs start soon
Work is due to start in spring 2015 on ‘urgent’ repairs to the clock tower at Emmanuel Church. A £40,000 loan has been agreed with the Methodist Chapel Aid fund towards the £96,000 cost. Grants totalling £36,000 have been offered from Yorkshire Historic Churches’ Trust, English Heritage, the Diocese of York and Garfield Weston. Emmanuel’s vicar the Rev. Adam Reed told Talk of the Town the Methodist loan had been agreed because repair work was urgent. Meanwhile he is appealing for donations, pointing out that the tower, including clock, belonged to the town. It was originally given to Saltburn in the late 19th century by local landowner Lord Zetland. Mr Reed said offers of help with fund-raising would be welcome. Standing order forms are available at the back of the church. Meanwhile he thanked people for donations and fundraising events held over the past year.
My recent admission to James Cook University Hospital: Part 2 If anybody remembers my 1st part of the above, here is the follow up. After coming home on 14th June to wait for the ICD to be fitted all was well until the 15th July when it all kicked off again. I had been to JCH for a look at the physio dept where I had agreed to go after the operation. The Physio Nurses who did the programme had said that I did not look very well and I was to sit it out and watch only.
I came home with my sister Sue; she drove my car as I did not feel well in myself. I drove from her house to home and had serious difficulty getting up the stairs and had to be helped by my neighbour Barrie. When Bunny came home she said I looked terrible (nothing new there) and asked if I wanted an ambulance, which she called and I was taken to JCH again. I was admitted to the Acute Assessment Unit, and after being assessed I was then moved to Resus. At about 23.00pm I was moved up to Ward 29 where I settled down for the night.
Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society November meetings and Stampex news Our Stamp Auction on 5th November was ‘packed out’ with friends visiting from neighbouring societies. Most sellers and buyers went home delighted. We had a record number of auction lots – far more than previously and finished 30 minutes later than usual! On 19th November David Foster (Stockton/ Middlesbrough PS) displayed ‘A Selection of Competitive Entries’. As an experienced exhibitor, he provided invaluable guidance about those judging entries at the exacting standards of regional philatelic competitions such as NEPA or YPA. Our December meetings at the Community Centre, Durham Road, Redcar, commencing 7.15pm are: Wednesday 3rd December Members’ displays – one frame each. As this meeting will be non-specialist and varied, it could prove a splendid ice breaker for prospective members to see what we do, and enjoy a warm welcome. December 17th is our Christmas party meeting with the traditional President’s Quiz. Contacts: Geoff. Reynolds (Secretary) 01642 478229 David D. Turner 01287 624736
I had been assigned to a different Consultant to deal with my case, (Dr Thornley) who came around in the morning, and read my notes from Dr Sutton; he then put me on Furosemide intravenously which again removed the fluid around my heart. I was kept in for 6 days and sent home on Monday and told to return in 10 days time, to have the ICD fitted. This I did and was at the hospital by 8am courtesy of Sue (my sister). I went to theatre at 13.30 and prepared for the procedure. I went in at 14.00 and was introduced to the medical team. There was a 60inch screen on my right hand side. Isobel (Theatre Nurse) & Michael (Registrar) started putting up screens around my left shoulder blade and neck; this was so I could not see what was going on externally. I was given a local anaesthetic and Michael started doing his job of inserting the ICD, I said earlier there was a big screen TV so I could actually see the electrodes going down the veins, into the heart. The whole procedure took 2½ hours and I was then taken up to ward 30 and was ably looked after by Kath & Steph. I stayed in hospital overnight. The following afternoon I was taken to the test room to check and make sure the ICD was performing correctly then taken back to the ward and advised that I could go home in about 2 hours which would make it 24 hours after the procedure. So the phone call went out for my sister to come and get me when she finished work. I do have to go back and have it tested again which was completed today and all was satisfactory and then I must go to Dr Thornley’s clinic on 9th December for him to check me out. Hopefully he will give me the OK so I can go and book some holidays to make up for the two I had to cancel this year. PS I feel absolutely wonderful now. Barry AA
Earthbeat’s Wizard of Oz Tickets are now available for Earthbeat’s production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Tickets are £6 each. This year’s Christmas production is our biggest and most ambitious Christmas show to date. We’ve pulled out all the stops for this one and promise to deliver a show that is funny, heart-warming and uplifting. If this doesn’t get you into the mood for Christmas, nothing will. In typical Earthbeat style we’ve taken the well loved classic, added a bunch of new characters alongside the more familiar ones and set it to our own soundtrack. The result is nothing short of magical! The show will be staged at Saltburn Community Theatre on the Monday 8th, Wednesday 10th, Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th December at 7pm. We look forward to seeing you for what promises to be a brilliant show. Please call us on 07969 623118 if you have any queries. We advise you to book early because, as usual, we’re expecting another sell out. Please note, we are unable to provide tickets until we have received payment for them. The Earthbeat Centre, Old Saltburn School, Marske Mill lane, Saltburn, TS12 1HJ. Tony Galuidi 49
PARK NEWSAGENCY Home News Delivery Specialists Cards & Gifts Magazines & Books Blue Nose Friends Toys & Games Confectionery, Drinks, Ice Creams Stationery Lottery
SALTBURN CRICKET CLUB
Stockists of Talk of the Town 102-104 High Street, Marske. Tel: 01642 484371
Marske Mill Lane, Tel 01287-622761
Wed 3rd December - U3A Quiz 7.00pm start SAT 6TH DEC – SPORTSMANS EVENING with Mark Proctor & Kevin Connely (all ticket night £20 with accompanied juniors £5) Wed 10th December – BINGO – all welcome Sun 14th Dec – ROTARY FAMILY CELEBRATION £5pp featuring games, buffet, carols and SPECIAL GUEST = FATHER CHRISTMAS!! Wed 17th Dec – Christmas Draw Sat 20th Dec – VICTORIAN FOOTBALLERS' CHRISTMAS PARTY Sun 21st Dec – FREE QUIZ – prizes £25, £15 & £10 – and it's free entry!! Wed 24th Dec – CHRISTMAS EVE LUNCHTIME BUFFET ... SALTBURN BLUES CLUB ... Sat 27th Dec WILLIE & the BANDITS support Dan Owen (£10). This is an all-ticket nights with 10% DISCOUNT for Club members Wed 31st Dec NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY with THE PERSUADERS Warm up with a party in the Club … if you have a function coming up where you need a convenient venue with loads of free parking, reasonable prices, prize-winning real ales and friendly staff, contact us to book your night.
Members and non-members welcome. Available for your functions
Contact Club for details & tickets Facebook saltburncricketbowlsandtennis socialclub 50
Children Outside with Nature On a very wet Friday morning in November, I was delighted to come upon a Grandma, with dogs and a young grandchild, suitably dressed for a ‘wild, wet walk’, in the Valley Gardens. With a second birthday looming, she was having a great time in the puddles and water flowing pathways. It is said that a child can walk a mile for each birthday – at their own pace! I could see that she was out for a long stint of adventure, learning and ultimately fun. The National Trust have put together a challenge for children called “50 things to do before you’re 113/4”. It is very easy to find the website. Here are just seven of them, suitable for a winter’s day (and one for evening): No.5, Skim a stone; No. 7, Fly a Kite; No.14, Dam a stream; No. 15, Play in the Snow; No. 27, Go Star-Gazing; No.28, Climb a huge hill – Huntcliff perhaps? No. 44, Go Bird Watching. Take a look at the list on line and start ticking off the adventures before reaching the age of 12 years. Our Park Ranger is recommending a visit to the outdoor space at Kirkleatham Museum. Perhaps you would like to write in, with your story about a great time you had in the outdoors in our area, so that others may follow your ideas.
Sue Ryder News Thanks to the LS Band for supplying a very enjoyable evening of music up at the Cricket Club back in September, those who came on the night had a chance to dance and boogey to some lively hits well performed from the local band. As before they very kindly provided their services free for the charity, and on the night with a tombola and meat draw kindly donated by Garry we raised in excess of £500. Thank you to all who supported us on the night and the continuing support from our customers and friends. Carol
Abi’s Health Advice
A few words on worms Threadworms are little, white worms that infect human intestines. They look like threads of cotton, hence the name! Up to half of children under 10 are at some time infected and will usually complain about an itchy bottom. Sometimes you can see the worms on stools in the toilet or on toilet roll but, if not and you want to confirm that your child is infected, then the best time to see the worms is at night, when the female worms come out to lay their eggs. You might be able to see the worms on your child’s bottom, underwear, pyjamas or bedding. People pick up threadworm eggs unintentionally from contaminated objects or people. They then swallow the eggs when they put their fingers into their mouth. The eggs grow into worms in the intestine. The female threadworms wriggle out of a person’s bottom at night to lay eggs. These eggs are laid around the anus (and vagina, in females) along with a mucous that causes itching. People scratch the area, often during the night, and the eggs get stuck on their fingers or under their finger nails where they can then be put into the mouth and the whole cycle starts again; or they can be transferred to another person’s hands or even onto surfaces that are touched by dirty hands. Obviously then, if one family member has threadworm then others may too and, for that reason, it is recommended that the whole household is treated. A common medication used to treat threadworm
infections is mebendazole and this can be bought in a pharmacy. (These might not be suitable for everybody so you should check with the healthcare assistant or pharmacist before buying.) Mebendazole stops threadworms from absorbing glucose so they die within a few days. However, Mebendazole does not kill the eggs. This treatment alone will not get rid of threadworms though. Good hygiene is the only way to prevent the transfer of eggs (which could cause further infection). Good hygiene measures include: Washing all pyjamas, bedding and towels when someone in the household is diagnosed. Vacuuming/dusting the whole house. Carefully cleaning the bathroom and kitchen. Keeping finger nails short. Ensuring children wear pyjamas to bed so they are less likely to directly scratch their bottoms at night. Making sure children don’t suck their thumb. Washing your hands and under finger nails, especially before eating or preparing food and after going to the toilet. Bathing or showering in the morning to remove any eggs. Making sure everyone in the household has their own flannel, towel and toothbrush. Threadworms are obviously unpleasant and people can feel embarrassed about asking for advice or treatment but they are easily treated with pharmacy products and hygiene measures so save a trip to the doctors and pop in to your local pharmacy. Your local pharmacist, Abigail Bowers.
Talking Points by Jonathan Whiley Scouts’ honour For me the idea of joining the Scouts was a little like jumping head first into an Enid Blyton novel. All that sitting around a campfire singing ging gang goolie, goolie, goolie, goolie wotcha watcha, marinating in the drizzle with a hot dog in hand. It was all very jolly-hockey-sticks, all so very British. After I had served my time in Beavers – the only part of which I can remember is the stylish matching grey sweatshirt and jogging bottoms uniform – I was ready for the big time. The grey was now replaced with an ivory green and we were handed something all those with a lisp dread - a woggle. It would hold in place a wispy little scarf that looked a little like a tea towel. So much so in fact that if you opened the scarf out and placed it over your head, you could pass for Mother Teresa. Those winter nights really flew by. On a weekly basis we would meet in the scout hut next to the caravan park in Saltburn. Sometimes we’d play football with a sponge ball which felt a bit like kicking around a giant marshmallow and other times we’d learn how to tie a whole host of knots; sheepshanks, bowlines and another one which I vividly remember included the instruction ‘place it around the tree and into the rabbit hole’. In the summer we would venture out in groups, leaving a crumb trail in the woods that consisted of broken twigs in the shape of arrows or crosses. Useless skills? Well, not quite. Wildlife expert Ray Mears used his bushcraft skills to lead the police to killer Raoul Moat in Northumberland. Opportunities to trace the movements of a murderer are few and far between but if ever there’s a lull in conversation at the pub, it could come in handy. As the old scout motto goes: be prepared.
The point I’m trying to make – albeit venturing down that aforementioned rabbit hole – is that scouting has changed beyond recognition since I first got my badge for spotting a squirrel (that’s a joke) more than 10 years ago. Now circus skills, technology and public relations are the order of the day. Instead of taking trips to Commondale or Skelton and camping out in a field in the middle of nowhere where a sheep pops its head in at random intervals in the night, now it’s about learning to reformat a computer. I take the point that tying knots and having endless amount of badges on your arm, is no longer relevant. I don’t think it ever was. It was about more that – it was about instilling a sense of morals and a love of the great outdoors. There was authority and leadership – albeit you would refer to them as some form of wild animal such as black bear or chief raccoon – and there was a chance to learn a whole host of social skills. Among the evenings spent sipping enamelthreateningly sweet hot chocolate, there was teamwork and a chance to foster a sense of independence from an early age. Teaching people computer skills in such a setting is madness. Children are born into a world where technology is king and using it is second nature. Developing it and learning to deal with it is par for the course with ample opportunities at every turn. Do we need to push and promote it more? Surely it will just allow people to retreat into their rooms where a faceless screen becomes their best friend. Scouting represents an opportunity to rekindle the love of nature and adventure which we’ve inevitably lost. Lord Baden Powell, the father of the scout movement, once said that ‘life without adventure would be deadly dull.’ I can’t help thinking that he would be spinning his grave. 51
Christmas Colouring Competition RobsonCarter Estate Agency are offering children to take part in a Christmas Colouring Competition. There will be two categories: one up to the age of 7 the other up to 11. Pictures to be coloured can be collected from RobsonCarter’s office and will be displayed outside the shop, with the winner of each category being announced week commencing the 15th December 2014. There will be prizes awarded to the winner of each age group. RobsonCarter Estate Agency Unit 6 Station Buildings Station Square, Saltburn, Cleveland TS12 1AQ 01287 626303 jon@robsoncarter.co.uk
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Tuesday at Eight Ladies Group will be serving refreshments including mince pies on Tuesday, 2nd December from 5 pm in Guisborough Church Methodist Hall. There will be homemade cakes, books, a gift stall, bric -a-brac, a bran tub and various other stalls. All are welcome.
MARSKE LEISURE CENTRE 69‐71 HIGH STREET MARSKE
UPVC Doors & Windows Tiling Glazing Plumbing Electrics PVC Wall & Ceiling Board Decking
CONVEYANCING
Christmas Festival
27 Milton Street Saltburn-by-the-Sea
01642 478006 ENTERTAINMENT at The Rock ‘n’ Roll Ballroom Coming soon “Elvis Tribute” – Saturday – Dec 6th Robin Hood Pantomime – Sunday Dec 7th Unfinished Business – Saturday January 17th The Delmonts – Saturday Valentine’s Day February 14th The Ska Beats – Saturday – March 21st Tickets are available from the office, or our website.
FIND US AT www.marskeleisurecentre.org or on Facebook
A Little Corner of Saltburn Christmas is coming and the goose is getting fat. And so am I. I’ve eaten far too much cake lately but I do like to think this is a selfless quest to support local bakeries so it’s all good. Crucially my Christmas chocolate consumption is decreasing and this has something to do with the steadily declining size of those round tubs of Christmas chocolates that have remained £5.00 for about the last 15 years. This phenomenon is known as ‘the big chocolate swindle’. Back in the 80s when the tins were keenly sized, you wouldn’t have to entertain thoughts of forcing down a coffee cream for at least a good week and a half. These days you touch the bottom of the chocolate barrel in a couple of days or less. I’ll be taking measurements this year. However, there’s something to be said for ditching the round tubs altogether and buying something from the local confectioners in town. Who’s with me? So it’s Christmas and I’m not one to reinforce gender stereotyping but it’s well known that present buying is very different between the sexes. Women will plan up to a few months in advance. Gifts will be carefully selected along with glittery bows and Christmas cards. Stamps will be bought for said cards. Said cards will be posted using a bumper pack of second-class stamps. All other presents for kids, in-laws, grandparents, dog and hamster will be purchased. Gifts will
be wrapped using the glittery bows. An emergency present for a forgotten someone will also be purchased. In contrast, a man’s Christmas goes something like this. On the 23rd December he will remember he has to buy some Christmas presents. On the 24th of December he will ask the recipient if she’d like to come and choose something with him in town. The end. Before I upset any men this is all tongue in cheek of course and I don’t mean any of it (of course I do). They say it’s not Christmas without a family row and some Only Fools and Horses but this seems a bit depressing to me. I think we are getting it just right in this little corner of the world. Saltburn is really that little bit magical at Christmas time. Last year’s parade was festive, twinkly and marvellous and it has to be said, made all that bit more festive with a couple of cups of mulled wine from the stall in town. Throw in some fake snow and the party is pumping. I plan on keeping up the tradition this year with my own special type of shoulder dancing. If I hit the threecup mark who knows what will happen? Well, I do know: I’ll be stumbling home. And so to all the readers in our merry little town and for those further afield, I’d like to wish you all a truly magical and blessed Christmas. See you in 2015 xx Anna
Thieves busy in Saltburn, SNAP hears A warning about locking up cars and houses was given to 20 local residents at a meeting of Saltburn Neighbourhood Action Partnership (SNAP) held at the library on 12th November. PCSO Laura Collins said a laptop had been stolen from a car in The Green on Hob Hill and three bicycles and a mower from a shed at Marske Mill Lane. In addition an attempted burglary had been made at Marske Mill Lane. A sat-nav was stolen from a car in Ruby Street and a shed broken into at Irvin Avenue. A house in Beechwood Avenue was broken into while the owners were away and cash and high-value jewellery stolen during a ransacking raid. PCSO Collins advised people to make sure their cars and houses were locked. In addition she said light-timers were good to deter would be ‘opportunistic’ thieves. About the period of Bonfire Night and mischief night, she said four anti-social behaviour reports had been received, mainly about eggs being thrown at windows. Throughout October and early November some 24 reports had been given to police in Saltburn, Marske and New Marske. Compared with other parts of the Redcar and Cleveland borough, this area’s problems were small. A lot of police presence had been out during the period. Tracee Hall-Young, the council’s local community officer for the three towns, praised the work of the Friends of Saltburn Cemetery for their work in getting a £14,000 grant from the Impetus environmental company for new railings and other work at the cemetery. Deana Jefferson, of the cemetery group, thanked Tracee for her contribution. Tracee said a lot of work was going on at the war memorial. She said police cadets had helped with a beach litter-pick. And she reported that the budgets of Saltburn’s three councillors still had £5,000 available for community
grants before the end of March 2015. During the main business of the meeting, which was about planning, Bernard Storey, asked about progress on improving Saltburn’s conservation area. He said he had been told the matter had ‘fallen down a hole’ with nothing happening in the council. “They should be ashamed. There is a need to get moving,” he told the meeting. Alex Conti, of the council’s strategic planning team, said his manager had been made redundant last year and Middlesbrough Council’s conservation department cut Redcar & Cleveland had been buying expertise from Middlesbrough. Bernard offered that SNAP (neighbourhood action partnership) would find resources. Mr Conti promised to take this offer to the council. During his presentation, Mr Conti said the Government’s policy was ‘pro growth and development.’ Speaking about Taylor Wimpey’s plan for 130 houses at an extension to the Wilton Bank estate going towards Marske, he said his department was not responsible for the detail of the application. He reported on the borough’s population declining 10 per cent since 1981 to 135,000 while the number of households had increased 14 per cent. The council had a need for a five-year supply of housing land. ‘Robust evidence’ of a need for the housing was needed. A heated discussion on the difference between the Government’s policies and those of developers took place during a question-time. The meeting was chaired by Councillor Philip Thomson. Jim Wingham was elected vice-chairman. A secretary is needed. The next meeting, to which all residents and people working in Saltburn are invited, will be held at the library on Wednesday, 14th January 2015 from 6pm-7.30. 53
Saltburn 500 Club I would like to start this column by passing on my heart-felt thanks to those people who volunteered to come out and help with the Christmas Lights, it was nice to welcome three new volunteers to the fold. I know that it is not yet Christmas but, already, I have to remind people that the lights will be taken down and stored on 6th January 2015 – volunteers needed please. On the subject of volunteers, Saltburn 500 Club are looking for volunteers to help with the opening/closing of the Bandstand for the Sunday performances in 2015. Training will be provided. If you are interested, could you please contact Jackie on 01287 624046. As we have been putting out the Christmas Lights, we have come across many surprised people who thought that ALL of the lights were supplied and erected by the Council. As a broad guideline, the Council provide and erect the motifs fitted to the lampposts. The provision and erection of the remaining lights and motifs is paid for by the Friends of Saltburn/Saltburn 500 Club. I still have much to do to ensure the 2014 Christmas Lights are up and working so the article, this month, is not as rambling as previous months. Could I finish by wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Trevor Welburn Secretary, Saltburn 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn
54
Saltburn's Remembrance service draws record 300
PROUD: Alec Mallory, of Saltburn, took part in the Remembrance Day service and later joined 300 others at the war memorial. He served in the Far East during World War Two in the RAF’s high-speed launch air-sea rescue service. He returned home to work because he had been told his skill as an architect was needed to “help build Britain”
The biggest-ever crowd of an estimated 300 people attended the annual Remembrance Day service at Saltburn’s war memorial on 9th November. In bright sunshine, the Rev Adam Young, a curate at Emmanuel church, told that work on restoring the memorial should be completed next year. The Last Post was played by ex-Army musician Crawford Hall and representatives of a record 38 organisations stepped forward to lay wreaths. The number compared with 32 groups last year when some 200 people took part. Parade marshal John Lambert, formerly of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, invited anyone else to lay wreaths or crosses and a dozen people did so. Mr Lambert said a poppy badge he was wearing came from Canada and a Canadian had received a British poppy from him. The two-minutes silence was impressive despite several babies in buggies being present. The singing, too, was good with three verses of the National Anthem being sung along with several hymns. Earlier, civic leaders, army cadets, young people from other youth organisations, and the public took part in a procession from Emmanuel church where a service had been held. Traffic was held up by police along Windsor Road and Albion Terrace while the procession walked along. Members of Saltburn’s fire service lined up in front of an engine at the back of the crowd. In a ‘prayers of the people’ spot the full church was reminded that some 30 conflicts are ongoing throughout the world. People took part in a section of ‘hope and commitment,’ which included a call for peace and to heal the wounds of war. Mike Morrissey
East Cleveland Employment and Training Group
East Cleveland Employment and Training Group, a voluntary organisation have celebrated their 30th Anniversary as a non profit making, limited company with charitable status. The formation was born out of seeing the suffering and hardship from a lack of investment, opportunities and nationally recognised as one of the highest areas of social deprivation. In the very early years, forward thinking action was undertaken by the Group in the attempt to improve the economic and social fabric of the rural community. Today, the principal activities of the company continue to be managed by a unique association of local individuals who strive to make a positive difference to this rural community. The Enterprise Centre at Liverton Mines remains the Company’s registered offices and the managerial hub for the Group affairs and Community Transport activities. Situated in an idyllic setting, the centre has had a most successful history in hosting professional development courses for the educational profession as well as being a venue for leisure/informal groups. The conference room is spacious and capable of comfortably accommodating up to 30 for formal presentations. Adjoining small workrooms are available for break out groups to meet. Ample car parking is available. We provide business units for local entrepreneurs. These are let on licence to small businesses, providing low cost, easy in, easy out terms for business premises for the
local workforce. We attract and support diverse businesses to the local community. Our IVECO Daily 03 model minibus continues to transport our client groups. We serve only the East Cleveland residents in a rural community. The client groups we serve are schools, persons with disabilities, visually impaired and senior citizens, also scout and youth clubs. All groups have varying needs; we have strived to continue serving these groups. Some groups, particularly the elderly are socially isolated; our service enables weekly social interaction hence improving the quality of life for so many individuals and groups. ECCT is the MIDAS (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) provider for the area. This is a programme developed to enhance the driving and passenger awareness skills of individuals who drive minibuses in the course of their work. The task of minibus driving requires skills over and above those required for driving a car. Our Trainer/ Assessor has successfully undergone appropriate assessment, training and accreditation, and is qualified to pass on this knowledge. Office contact details: Telephone: 01287 642244 Or 01287 644972 Email: ecetg@fsmail.net
Kaye at ReFurbish Emporium The new not-for-profit enterprise at the former Saltburn’s Diamond Street saleroom building is keeping with the town’s tourism image. “We’re keen to get more donations of items to put on display,” said Tracy O’Neill, head of community investment at Coast & Country Housing Association, which is leasing the two saleroom buildings opposite one another. Most items on display have been given, but she paid nearly £70 on eBay for a leather rocking-chair, which is on show on an alcove above a rear door. Gifts include Paddington Bear, with a jam jar, and sign saying ‘This way to Peru’ plus a ‘Love’ sign, pictured here, placed on a coffee table. New manager Kaye Rideout, who has taken up the post of manager at the ReFurbish Emporium, said: “This enterprise is good for Saltburn. The former auction room has moved on and we are now recycling furniture to sell at reasonable prices.” Mrs Rideout spent much of her career in finding jobs for people and in retail. Work for volunteers includes training in refurbishing donations of furniture.
Kaye Rideout, manager of the new Refurnish emporium in Diamond Street displays a ‘Love’ sign. Coast and Country is seeking more items to use in its displays of refurbished furniture. 55
Hey You, Get On My Cloud!
Global computer giant asks Marske shop for advice It’s not every day that a global industry giant asks a small independent High Street shop for advice! B u t th a t’s e x a c t l y wh a t happened when Microsoft invited Garry Stonehouse from popular Marske computer sales and repair shop GbizIT to meet them in London last month. The global technology giants handpicked Garry as one of only eight independent retailers in the country – and the only North East retailer – for advice on the future development of Cloud Technology. Garry, from Saltburn, said: “I got an email from Microsoft right out of the blue, asking for my thoughts on how we saw the future of Cloud Technology. “Cloud computing is the moving of a traditional server from an office to a secure online location, meaning it can be accessed securely from anywhere in the world. “Whether it’s one or 100,000 users, the platform can be infinitely scaled up or down to cope with any number of people using the service, and it’s used by everyone from small start-ups to large organisations including Jaguar Land Rover and several Government Departments. “Cutting through the jargon, Cloud Technology basically brings two huge business benefits. “Firstly; it saves money – with small businesses and large organisations alike only needing to pay for the capacity they need or are using right at any given moment, rather than having to pay for any projected future capacity in one large advance lump sum. “It’s obviously something that, for example, could save local government and other public sector organisations a significant amount of money. “Secondly, it’s rapidly seen as a Green Solution. It means that you’re not consuming power in your own
building, but sharing computing strength from server frames powered 24/7 by green renewable energy sources.” Speaking after his day-long meeting with Microsoft, Garry said: “It was obviously interesting to see how a global player like Microsoft saw the future, and how it thought the future was going to develop. Quite an eye opener really, and the possibilities are endless.” GbizIT expanded quickly through popular recommendations after setting up almost ten years ago as a mobile PC repair service. They went on to open a small shop in Saltburn before re-locating into their current larger shop in Marske in April 2007. Asked why he thought Microsoft sought him out for advice, Garry, an IT professional for 20 years, said: “There’s probably two ways of looking at it. Firstly, we’ve worked hard to build a good reputation within the IT industry itself. “Secondly, and not to put too fine a point on it, we are self-confessed IT geeks here at the shop – and proud of it! Unlike a lot of the bigger chains, we know our products absolutely inside out.” GbizIT, The Wynd, Marske. Open Mon-Sat 9am5pm, visit www.gbizit.co.uk or call 01642 477200.
Jessica Tyreman’s Success Jessica Tyreman, a Year 11 student at Huntcliff School in Saltburn has been successful in her application for the Youth Sport Trust National Talent Camp to be held at Loughborough University next month as a coach. She is one of 350 aspiring athletes, coaches and officials from across the country who have been chosen. This is really an unbelievable achievement considering there are only two applicants selected from the whole of the Tees Valley. The Youth Sport Trust commented on how Jessica has demonstrated talent and has shown a commitment to sport and pushing herself further. 56
It follows on from Jessica being selected for the Tees Valley Coaches Academy last month, which is also brilliant. Jessica will spend 4 days based at Loughborough, which has some of the best university sporting facilities, from 19th to 22nd December. Jessica will be 16 years old during December and she has also been chosen to be a Sports Leader at the school. Pictured here is Jessica winning a certificate during this summer’s sports day. Heather Ollerenshaw
01287 348548 or 07796 478361
Events in Saltburn Library We have a number of Christmas events in December that we would love to see you at. December 16th – Get into the festive spirit with Christmas songs performed by local artists Liz and Steve, back by popular demand! There will be mince pies and hot drinks served afterwards. This is a free event organised by Friends of Saltburn Library, but any donation to the Friends group will be welcomed. There will be the following activities for children: Thursdays, December 11th and 18th Christmas card making 3.30-4.30pm. Saturday, December 20th – Bonanza Christmas craft session 2.00-3.00pm. Monday, December 22nd – Santa stroll leaving the Library at 11.00am. Please book for these events – 01287 623584. We are pleased to say that we have some money available for new books so if you have any suggestions for new titles to add to our stock, then just let us know. We will be closed from 12.30pm on Wednesday, December 24th through until Friday, 2nd January, so make sure you come and get stocked up on books to read over the Christmas period. Best wishes for a Happy Christmas from all the staff at Saltburn Library. Tracey Withrington Neighbourhood Librarian Saltburn Library and Tourist Information 01287 623584
SALTBURN ATHLETIC (JUNIOR) FC (The Seagulls) Saltburn Athletic U12s are seeking a goalkeeper to play in the TJFA league. Please contact Tom Turner on 07846 412701. The under 13s are seeking players in any position. Please contact Chris Watson on 07818 513774. The U10s seagulls are seeking a striker. Contact Phil Barnes on 07479 944215. The club would also like to hear from any girls interested in playing and also 6 and 7 year old boys with the prospect of trying to form teams in the near future. Contact Andy Croll on 07779 648877 or turn up on Saturday mornings at 10am on the field opposite Saltburn Golf Club (Hob Hill). The club’s annual Christmas party will be held at Saltburn Cricket Club on Sunday, 21st December at 4pm and this will be followed by the annual North Sea dip on Sunday, 28th December at 10am by Saltburn pier. Any sponsorship for the club would be welcome by contacting Andy Croll on 07779 648877 or Roy Myers on 07825 255380 or club secretary Martin Fowkes on 07960 744615. 57
Once Upon a Time in the Wapentake I’m writing this in the grey days of early November, the days when we remember the dead, and perhaps this influences what this is about. Nevertheless it is a Christmas story, just like last year and the year before that. But unlike those other tales which were set in a time and a place that never existed, Faery Land if you like, this is set in a real place, Manchester, and a real time, Christmas Eve 1940. It is a true story, then. Some members of my family may remember it differently, of course, and I do not remember it all, not being born for almost another five years, not until the war was over. I remember only what I have been told. The day war was declared my father’s brother had come round to tell him that he was on the way to join up. My father would have joined him but my mother stopped him, telling him to wait until he was called up, so at the end of 1940 he was still working at a large department store in Manchester. Although still a civilian, he was expected to do his bit, everybody was. What his bit consisted of was Fire Watch duties. This meant that, on certain nights, he took his turn standing on the flat roof of the store, keeping a look out for enemy aircraft dropping bombs. If an incendiary bomb, one capable of starting a fire, landed on the roof he was equipped to deal with it. He had a stirrup pump, but it was not connected to a water supply, so was not a great deal of use. He had a bucket of sand to drop the bomb into, and, if the bomb was too hot to handle, he had a yard brush, which he could use to push it off the roof and into the street Meanwhile my mother would be waiting at home. She would go out on the lawn and look at the sky. If there was fire in the west, that meant Liverpool was burning, which was all right, because my father was not in Liverpool. If the fire was in the east, then it was Manchester that was being bombed and she would be afraid. On Christmas Eve 1940 my father was on duty with his trusty brush, useless pump, and a bucket of sand. That night Manchester was hit with its biggest raid of the war. As far as my father could see, in every direction, the city was burning, but, miraculously the building that he was guarding was untouched. If it had been hit, chances are, I would not have been here to tell the tale. Eventually the morning came, and my father had another problem to deal with. The lines out of Manchester Central Station into Cheshire that would normally take him home were carried on a series of viaducts, or rather they had been. Now they no longer existed. And no trains were running. If he were to get home, to my mother, and my sister who was just three months old, he would have to walk. It was a journey of some twenty miles. 58
It sounds a strange, terrible way to spend Christmas Morning, and yet…and yet. The first stage of his walk took him through Salford, through the area around the docks, an area notorious for harsh, grinding poverty. But if the people of Salford had had very little before the bombing, they had even less now, as they sat in the ruins of their houses. Yet, somehow, they were brewing tea, and cooking breakfast. And every step he took, my father said, there was someone offering a cuppa, or a bacon butty. The lesson he said we should take from that was that if you are in need, do not go to the those who have a lot, for they will give you nothing. Go to those who have little for they will give you everything. (A cynic might add that this is how some people get rich: by giving nothing away. And others get poor by giving too much away. But my father was not a cynic, and did not add that.) Perhaps the generosity of spirit of the poor is no longer a reality. Perhaps it never really was. But I believe in it, just as I believe if Christmas means something, it is that it is a time for remembering those whose needs are greater than our own, for all those made homeless by war, or in flight from famine, for all those for whom there is no room in the inn. It is a time for sharing what we have. I remember another of my father’s stories. Later in the war, he was now in uniform, in Italy, and found himself on guard duty, not the sort of thing a mechanic in the Air Force would usually be doing. I think it was one of the few occasions he actually had a gun in his hand. What he and his friends were guarding was an enormous pile of food of every description. All around the countryside was devastated and the people were starving. As soon as it got dark men and women would appear trying to crawl through the wire in search of something to give their hungry children. What my father and his comrades did when they saw somebody coming was to put down their rifles and go behind a tree, pretending to have a wee, and not come out until they’d gone. That the Italians had only recently stopped being the enemy seems to have been irrelevant. They were hungry and they had to have bread. We are human and we share. Terrible as war is, there was at least one thing about that particular war: if things were in short supply, and they often were, they were rationed, which meant that those scarce things went not to those with deepest pockets, but to those with the greatest needs. We shared. Not all the lessons that my father taught me have stuck. He did say that the worst thing that happened to him in the Air Force was during his basic training. They sent him to Scarborough. “Son,” he said, “Whatever you do, never go near the coast of Yorkshire at Christmas Time. It’s bitter cold and it nearly killed me.” If I hadn’t ignored his advice, I certainly wouldn’t be here today, typing this. Tim Beswick
Moola 1 Dundas Street West (Next to Easy PC & Music) Moola is open from 9.00am until 5.00pm Tuesday to Friday, 9.30am to 12.30pm Saturday, and Closed Monday and Sunday
Brian Hudson Decorator Interior and Exterior 30 years experience Free estimates
01287 624011
Repairs and Alterations
Sewing Workshops Dressmaking Mobile: 07472 178817 Saltburn Beer Festival a huge success
A big thank you to everyone who helped to make the 5th Saltburn Beer Festival the most successful yet. This includes all the CAMRA volunteers who helped to plan and run the festival, The Spa Hotel for sponsoring the glasses, all the businesses and individuals who generously sponsored a cask of beer, Richard and Sue who provided excellent home made food, David Jowsey who designed another wonderful Saltburn logo and the staff of SCAA for their help and co-operation, but most of all we would like to thank all the customers who came and sampled 40 different beers, 3 ciders, 2 perries, 8 fruit wines and created such a happy, friendly atmosphere. Apologies to those who had to wait to get in when the hall was full, and thank you for your good humour and patience. Altogether over 700 people came to the festival over the two days and we had visitors from all over Britain, many staying for the weekend, and all saying how much they liked Saltburn, the Community Centre and the warm welcome from local people. Our next real ale festivals are on 19-21 February at ARC in Stockton and 10-11th April in Guisborough Parish Hall. 59
1st Saltburn Scout Group We need support! 1st Saltburn Scout Group has been shortlisted (together with nine other groups and organisations) as part of the Teesside Philanthropic Foundation’s Goalden Give Away; possibly gaining up to £2,500 and a publicity visit from Boro stars. We need support via a public vote on the charity’s website (at www.teessidecharity.org.uk). Voting started on 12th November, and will end midday on Friday, 5th December. Please support our Group – the only Scout Group in the area to get through from over 60 applicants – but please remember ‘one vote per IP address’, otherwise we could be disqualified! Saltburn Beavers enjoyed their District Halloween Event at Skelton; over 100 attended and they had FUN! It was not quiet and our disco man Karl ensured they got plenty of exercise; whilst District leaders ensured the hall was well decorated and all Beavers enjoyed the refreshments and left with a large piece of Halloween cake. Many thanks to all for the support and assistance; particularly the Beavers for coming and enjoying themselves. At weekly meetings Beavers have been preparing their entries for the Fire Safety poster competition. Our team of Cubs enjoyed the District Bowling evening, transported each way by mini-bus which they shared with Loftus Beavers. A good night and all Cubs enjoyed their hotdogs or pizzas and their soft drinks. All were safely back by 8.15pm and so not too late. Scouts have been quieter (not really) utilising skills gained from their training weekend last month.
Saltburn Line User Group Next Meeting: Tuesday, 2nd December This is a joint meeting
with Coastliners to be held in Middlesbrough Station Refreshment Room at 7pm. Guest speakers from Northern Rail and TransPennine Express. All welcome to attend. Talk to Saltburn Line User Group. The Group exists to protect passengers’ interests. Find us at www.facebook.com/ saltburnlineusergroup Telephone the secretary on:
07875 242350 SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LINE 60
All Sections supported the Remembrance Parade – well done to them all – we had an excellent turn-out, all looking very smart in their uniforms and their behaviour was impeccable. They have all followed up with discussions at all the Section meetings regarding the importance of this event and what it means to each and every one of them. Cubs and Scouts have produced acrostic poems of Remembrance. The Beavers and Cubs (with hopefully the Scouts’ assistance) are preparing for the Santa Parade at the end of the month; I am unsure as to which is the greatest draw, Santa or the fire engine and the rockets? Our developments for the building continue; our kitchen is being revamped, many thanks to Sarah Hill and her father, Andrew Hill who have installed our ‘new’ kitchen; also Bob Snowdon for his plumbing skills. A more modern kitchen is much appreciated. We have started to sort the storage out within the building and now need to find a ‘home’ for 24 small chairs which are surplus to our needs, but may be useful to a nursery group, etc. The Group Executive is currently discovering the costs of insulating and re-lining the main hall, hence our hopes with the Goalden Give Away (especial thanks to Karen Higgins for ensuring our entry was successful); other plans include having the main hall floor sanded off and re-varnished (courtesy of Invictus Health Studio). Our parents continue to assist – hopefully in the forthcoming Scout Post – and in other ways and we thank them for their excellent support. We are continuing with our recruitment strategy to attract Leaders for the Group and young people to our Sections. If you could offer assistance or are interested in joining us, please enquire. John G. Hannah – 07811 801627 or johnghannah@yahoo.co.uk
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The Saltburn Profile by Rosemary Nicholls Sean Halcrow-Cook “I’m aiming to have paintings and crafts for sale here on rotation,” says Sean Halcrow-Cook of Saltburn Station Gallery, “so it’s always worth people popping in to see what’s on display.” He has taken over the premises formerly used by Doorways and partnered by his mother, Susan, is full of ideas. Sean was born in Newcastle, but moved down to Saltburn in infancy to be close to the rest of the family: his grandparents and aunts and uncles. An only child, he went to Saltburn Infants, Junior and Huntcliff Schools, before taking ‘A’ levels at Prior Pursglove College. He studied Fine Art, P.E., History and Geography in his first year, then exchanged History with Photography. In 2011, he went to Northumbria University to take a degree in Contemporary Fine Art and Photographic Practice. This included a mixture of mediums: painting, photography, printing and sculpture. “It was a fun three years and it gave me time to develop as an artist,” he says. Sean took part in a big exhibition of the work of graduating students in Newcastle and then in a three day exhibition called Free Range at the Truman Brewery in Brick Lane, London. His exhibits were mostly very large sculptures, including underground volcanoes. “I made molten balls of rock from foam,” he explains. After this, Sean moved back to Saltburn to start the Station Gallery, having been inspired by his success in an exhibition at the old Junior School in August 2013. “The Gallery is mainly to showcase my own artwork, which is a mixture of landscapes, abstract work and space art (making images inspired by satellite photography and his own imagination),” he says, “but I’m selling other artists’ work too.” This includes other styles and mediums, such as watercolours by Dawn Harris and Dot Harris, encased bugs by naturalist Dave Healey, hand-made jewellery by Chris Harrisskit, driftwood crafts by Rob Winders, woodturning by David Barugh and hand-made cards by Nancy Barugh, mixed media by Alan Bulmer and photography by Peter Alexander and Stephen Dowd. Sean is pleased with the interest in the Gallery so far. It has been packed on the Farmers’ Market and Food Festival days. Paintings, gifts, crafts and cards are selling well. He wants to offer more artists’ supplies for sale in the future and souvenirs of Saltburn in the tourist season. Sean enjoys visiting art galleries and while he was a student, volunteered at the Vane and Laing Galleries in Newcastle. He assisted the technicians in setting up and served drinks on opening nights. While at College, he went to New York and saw MOMA, the Guggenheim and the Metropolitan Galleries. “What we saw was amazing!” he says. When he was a teenager, Sean was a very strong swimmer. He used to swim in the Moors League for Saltburn Swimming Club and in the Moors Squad for Cleveland County. Breast stroke was his forte. He volunteered to help with coaching and would like to get back into the sport. Sean likes reading books about space and follows Professor Brian Cox. He’s interested in history books too. With regard to music, Sean has seen his favourites Muse play at Manchester and Foo Fighters at Milton Keynes. He
wants to investigate having live music inside or outside the Station Gallery and he’d like to learn to play the piano himself one day. Sean and his girlfriend, Katherine, have just taken on a pug, which they have called Roy. As he hasn’t had all his jabs yet, Roy hasn’t been out, but he is so far pretty wellbehaved. Sean was brought up with a couple of poodles and has painted pictures of dogs from photos. He has had an Olympus camera since College. “I’m never too far from my camera,” he adds. Is he a good cook? He can fend for himself, but he’s not going to become a chef. Is he a keen gardener? He has a collection of bonsais in the back yard of his granddad’s old house in Montrose Street. “I just picked up the interest as a kid,” he says. When he was about twelve, Sean and Susan went to visit friends in the Blue Mountains in Australia and travelled around a bit. He has been on another family trip to Florida and twice to Turkey. He’d like to travel more if he had the time and the money. Sean is trying to get some local events off the ground. As well as hosting live musicians, he wants to give a focus to the large sculptures of Graham Anderton, (who created the work on the roundabout between Marske and New Marske). Sean and Susan are keen to support local businesses and have bought cabinets and display tables from Saltburn’s Teesside Hospice shop. Anne Henderson of Marske is designing a website for the Gallery. Saltburn Station Gallery is open from 10.00 - 4.00 on weekdays, (closed on Wednesdays). Saturday hours are 10.00 - 5.00ish and Sunday hours from 10.00 - 2.00, but Sean extends opening when events are being held in the town. He can be found on Facebook under Sean HC Art and reached on 07825 264 907 (or seanhcart@gmail.com). How good it is to be able to support another young person in the town centre! 61
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Red Faces All Round by Alan Butler In the centre of Bridlington a new cafe has opened and last week Kate and I availed ourselves of its casual 21st century decor. As we were leaving the shop I opened the door for Kate and then followed her out into the rain. Somehow, and it’s never happened to me before, I managed to get my right toe trapped between the closing door and the bottom of the door frame. This came about because the door was extremely heavy and swung closed the moment I let go of it. The result was that all of my body and my left leg continued to move forward but my right leg could not. Physics demands that any object that is moving but also falling must describe an arc and that is exactly what happened to me. As is often the case at such times I had a conversation with myself about the fact that I was headed towards the wet pavement but despite the fact that it appeared to take a good twenty minutes, there was nothing at all I could do about the situation. Fortunately I was able to stop myself actually falling flat on my face by putting my arms out in front of me, so that it must have appeared to passers by that I was attempting to do push-ups in the doorway of the cafe. This might have been fine except for the fact that two kind ladies in the cafe immediately dashed to my aid. In order to do so they had to open the door. This immediately released my right toe but since the laws of physics were still at work my weight continued forwards, my push-up collapsed and I sank to the pavement and landed in a puddle. Operation control in my brain immediately sent out an all points message to the rest of my body, in order to get reports regarding any damage done – whether fight or flight were appropriate and (in deference to millions of years of evolution) if a sabre toothed tiger was about to spring on me. The replies came quickly, legs – OK, arms – OK, face – OK, no perceived threat; in fact everything seemed generally fine, except for an audible siren that could be heard wailing in the embarrassment centre of my head. The ultimate result, apart from me being seriously wet was thanks all round to the kind citizens who rushed to my aid (even if two of them had accidentally made things worse) and then a hasty retreat to anywhere that wasn’t right there outside the cafe. All of this took place amidst frantic efforts on my part to assure what seemed like half the population of Bridlington that I was completely unhurt and did not require artificial respiration, a paramedic first responder or the Yorkshire air ambulance. Why is it that several days after, and now in the comfort and seclusion of my office my face still glows with embarrassment about the whole business? Apart from Kate I did not know any of the people who saw my athletic display and I will probably never see any of them again. Of course once Kate discovered I wasn’t hurt she thought the whole business was a massive hoot and I have no doubt it will be replayed on my behalf at many future family gatherings or social events, so that I will have to
relive the experience with a good grace and pretend that I was amused by my antics. Some lucky people seem to have the ability to come through similar situations without so much as a second glance. I was once walking behind a woman in the Queen’s Arcade in Leeds who lost control of her knicker elastic. The offending garment dropped to the floor and although its presence might well have caused a similar mishap for her to the one I experienced, instead she deftly walked out of the knickers and simply kept on going up the arcade – as if nothing at all had taken place. I was literally lost in admiration and as a result quelled my natural desire to add to her predicament by picking up the knickers and chasing after her, shouting “Madam, you seem to have lost something!” The woman in question appeared to fare better than Kate, whose most embarrassing moment in life was when she lost her knickers during a skipping competition on the beach in Saltburn when she was about eight or nine. She remembers the whole incident with horror many decades later. Actually, it isn’t always these incidents themselves that stick in our memories, but rather happenings associated with them. Kate’s embarrassment at the skipping contest is still overtaken by her indignation at losing, since there were only two competitors remaining and she was clearly winning at the time I once fell down some steps in India and crashed like a bull elephant into a sheet metal sign, which announced my landing to the whole town. I wasn’t particularly hurt, though I did feel something of a fool – a situation that was made all the worse by a cry that went up from the many shops and stalls surrounding me – “Come Quickly. An old man’s fallen over!” Years ago I lived in an upstairs flat on Station Road in Saltburn. Our living room window overlooked Station Road and in particular the opposite corner, next to the roundabout, outside what used to be a bank. I called this corner the Disaster Zone, because all manner of really odd and definitely embarrassing events used to take place there on a daily basis. If anyone was going to slip and end up sitting on the ice in winter, that is where it happened. I lost track of the number of people who met at speed on that corner and bounced off each other or who stopped at the last moment and did that oh so embarrassing dance in which we all sometimes take part, when nobody can decide which route to take to get round the other. Umbrellas took great delight in blowing inside out on that spot, a woman once accidentally hit an oncoming man in the crotch with her shopping bag and a child on skates came careering down the footpath and trying to stop himself grabbed a lamppost, swung round it at least three times and then catapulted into the wall before bouncing back and landing on his bottom. Do bear this in mind next time you are out shopping and if you don’t want an embarrassing situation of your own, stick to the other side of the road. Merry Christmas, everyone! 63
Saltburn Allotments Association Here we are again on the slippery slope down to Christmas and firesides and seed catalogues are on my mind. Hopefully the 2015 King’s Catalogue will arrive soon and we can think about renewing the seeds in the allotment association’s containers. If there’s anything you particularly fancy trying next year, let us know soon so that we can add it to our order. Seeds can be expensive so putting them on your Christmas list can be a good idea. Our scheme gives 20% discount on King’s seeds to our members and we know that what we sell is good quality. There are shops we all know where seeds are sold at a very affordable price but it’s always a good idea to check that they are a reputable brand. If not, you risk low germination. Of course, you could save your own seeds. We were sorry that we missed the November Farmers’ Market. I was sorry not to see those of you who come to our stall each month. We will be back for Christmas with lots of produce that will be suitable as Christmas presents and, of course, hearty, warm soup. Do come and see us: the Christmas market always has a great atmosphere and is a place where different and unusual presents can be found and, all local. All this talk about seeds makes me think of New Year resolutions and wishes. We can resolve to be better gardeners in many ways, tidier, more experimental, better organised but, our greatest wish must surely be for great weather next year. Winter frosts to kill the bugs, sunshine by day and rain at night etc. There are, of course, plenty of jobs we can do in December. We need to remember to feed the birds. Everything that can be cleaned needs cleaning, greenhouses and polytunnels can be insulated, and bubble wrap is popular, by putting a layer all around the inside. This means that you can continue to sow and grow salad leaves, spring onions and the like. Now is a good time to plant bare root fruit trees and to protect all trees against codling moth. It’s a wingless pest that crawls up tree trunks and lays eggs in buds that will form fruit. The eggs will hatch and the bugs bore into the fruit as it develops. Not nice. The cure is to get a paint brush and a tub of cheap grease and paint a nice thick band round the tree and any tree support. Finally, I know that at least one of our plot holders has a grape vine and apparently this is the last month for pruning vines. Later on and they ooze sap from the cuts. You should cut back all side growths on established plants to leave each with one or two buds on the main stem. You can take cuttings from the prunings and give them as Christmas presents next year when you know they’ve taken and have healthy plants. You’ll be popular. Merry Christmas to you all, Sue. 64
Saltburn Beachwatch Reflections on 2014 This last year has been both good and bad for beaches throughout the British Isles including Saltburn. On the negative side the government are now shelving the introduction of charging for single use plastic bags in England until after the next general election despite most other parts of the UK showing large reductions (up to 80%) in use since the 5p charge came in. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues in Scotland who introduced the charge at the beginning of November. It has been estimated that 750 million plastic bags could stay unused if people thought twice before saying yes at the checkout. Unfortunately 2014 has seen another increase in rubbish (especially plastic) on beaches throughout Britain and some manufacturers of plastic micro-beads which are used in exfoliating scrubs, shower gels, toothpaste and many household cleaning products are resisting changing back to using natural bio-degradable and sustainable alternatives in these items. All this rubbish continues to damage the marine environment, making the beaches unsafe, ugly, and damaging creatures like seabirds and other animals that are known to consume plastics accidently leading to a slow and painful death. Over 90% of fulmars found dead in the North Sea are found to have plastic in their stomachs. The coming higher EU standards for bathing waters is likely to mean that Saltburn will find it more difficult to regularly meet the new criteria for excellence. More positively Saltburn Beachwatch has increased the number of registered volunteers by 98% this year, which just goes to show that the people of Saltburn and district really care about their beach and are prepared to give up some of their time to help to keep the beach free of litter so everyone can enjoy it being safer and looking as good as it does at the present time. There are more children and their families coming to Saltburn Beachwatch events which bodes well for the future. I think volunteers also appreciate the opportunity to work with others who are interested in keeping our local beach clean and having the mid-session refreshments gives people the chance to get to know each other and have a chat. Big Thanks to:- my wife Pam and her daughter Sophie for making and serving refreshments; Mike Gosnay (Gosnay’s Butchers and stores) for sponsoring the refreshments for the next year; Tracee and Andy from the council for supplying pickers, gloves, bags and removal of rubbish; Friends of Saltburn for sponsoring badges; Anne and Pete for help with registration; and Glen from Saltburn Fisheries who fills up our hot water flasks! Biggest Thanks of all to those who volunteered at the Saltburn Beachwatch litterpicks and surveys in 2014. If you would like to help at the next Saltburn Beachwatch litterpick and survey, it will take place on Saturday, 6th December from 10.00am until 12 noon. Meet at the pier car park where pickers, gloves and bags will be provided. Midway through the session free hot and cold drinks and homemade cookies will be available. If required more information can be obtained by contacting myself by email at roye.smith47@yahoo.co.uk or Tel: 01287 204204. Roy Smith
The Muses of Jim
Air Raid Shelter Found in Exeter Street Whilst renovating a house in Exeter Street in Saltburn the new owners have unearthed a WW2 brick built air raid shelter complete with its own set of concrete steps. It has attracted a lot of interest and a gentleman who lives across the road has been able to shed some light on its history. It was built by an Engineer, Mr Samuel Godfrey, for his wife Emily who was a nurse. Exeter Street was bombed during the war and she was so afraid that Samuel built the shelter in their front garden. It will now be turned into a sunken garden. If anyone can remember anything else about the shelter or the Godfreys please get in touch on 01287 349405.
I have had my right eye done and it’s wonderful. I can’t wait to have the other done too. to be honest I was very nervous before the op. In fact I was very scared indeed, so much so that I forgot about my duty of care to Spud, by shutting him in the main bathroom overnight. He looked most offended when released. To get back to my eyesight even with only one eye treated it is much improved. The only dark event in the last month was the closure of the Money Tree and Glen Credit Union. We were willing to merge another credit union, but we could never seem to be able to meet with their management board to finalise the details. This, in my opinion, was a sad day for the people of the Borough. I attended two wreath laying services. The first at Redcar and Cleveland College, where the boys of Coatham School that fell in the two World Wars are remembered. Each guest was given a small cross with the name of a old boy, given the details which service he was in and the date of his death. Peter Chester, of Saltburn, who was both an old boy and a teacher at the school, spoke about some examples of the fallen. In a very moving way he described their family life, school life and where they died. This year Peter gave a short talk about the work that he and the students are doing collecting data on the fallen and on display were two beautiful bound volumes containing all the details gathered on each pupil that paid the ultimate price for their country. The second one was of course here at Saltburn. The service was as always moving and it was marvellous to see a full church and the people lining the route of the short parade. The amount of the people at the War Memorial was staggering, a tribute to the compassion of the people of Saltburn. I was proud and honoured to be asked to lay a wreath on behalf of a good friend, unfortunately too ill to attend. At least this year I was not told that I had no right to be there as I was told some years ago. The highlight of the month must be the showing of the DVD of the Saltburn Victorian Footballers re-enactment of the famous Christmas Football Match of the First World War. Saltburn House was packed and the DVD was very well received. I am proud to say that the Parish Council was represented by the Chairman of the Parish Council, Councillor Nora Cooney. It is sad to hear that the Footballers are hanging up their boots after Christmas. For over twenty-five years they have both entertained us and raised money to support local children’s groups. They are all very special boys and girls. The saga of the almost carpet baggers (developers) continues with new planning applications reaching the Parish Council. One is for 14 units on the playing field of the old junior school, access by a new entrance onto Marske Mill Lane, over the site of the defunct Youth Club. The other is in Marske, a 1000 houses, 80 bed hotel, and a drive through McDonald’s. Since the Borough Council in its wisdom rejected the appropriate structure plan on housing it is unclear whether the land is protected. Let’s hope commonsense prevails. Jim Wingham 65
The Saltburn Crossword no 162 set by Saxton Across 1 See 12 Across 5 Saltburn cafe declares its intent? (7) 10 Dull backing Shakespeare (4) 11 Tries nervous Ade nervously (10) 12 and 1 Across Saltburn road finds old name for England on the veranda (6, 7) 13 Frozen and trapped, I’d bounce around (8) 14 Distressed varied egg scrambled (9) 18 Hot in temper removes one point from finery (5) 19 Father at this time of year in peasant attack (5) 21 and 27 Across They were switched on in Saltburn at the end of last month (9, 6) 26 Snow may do this from the sky and some of us might do it after slipping on it (4, 4) 27 See 21 Across 29 Slightly distant relative, she’s presumably a good one by the sound of it (5-5) 30 Things with variety do so after losing three letters (4) 31 Threatens to happen as little devil closes (7) 32 With a leg on the left and a leg on the right on horseback? (7)
Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ ________________________________________ Telephone_______________________________
Solution to Crossword no 161
The winner of last month’s crossword was H. Holford of Westwood Lane, Ingleby Barwick.
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Down 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 15 16 17 20 22 23 24 25 28
It can help against noise pollution listener in the sink? (7) Jewish doctor found in crab bird (5) To make pure case, Len found in disarray (7) Pictures when I’m a long time? (6) Expounder of new words if nil goes to ruin (9) Maker of harnesses found in squalor in error (7) To counsel I’d save 20 Down (6) To get revenge consumed food after retail problem (9) Saltburn pub abbreviated would find success to a Tory (3) Hard French found with endurance (3) A gran’ma found word puzzle (7) Want that nobody should suffer at Christmas (6) Disease evaluated less nil for the answer (7) Changed dear let change (7) Swindled prisoner Edward (6) The one who presents presents at Christmas (5)
Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 162, c/o Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ by Friday, 12th December 2014. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Tim and Sheila of Real Meals.
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