Talk of the Town February 2023

SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK

Letter from the Editor

For many years I have joked that the greatest asset to the magazine is me, while at the same time the greatest danger to the magazine is also me! I have been an asset because of all my hard work, commitment and perseverance but I have known that if ever something happened to me, even if it was a period of laziness or depression or some other incapacity then the magazine would be threatened. This really came home to me last month when I became so ill suddenly that I could hardly function. I managed to get January’s magazine completed but it was late and I didn’t really start feeling better for six weeks! I spoke to many other people who suffered similarly but it wasn’t flu or covid. I have to recognise that the magazine can’t be so dependant upon my health. I have made the decision that it is therefore best for the future of Talk of the Town that I finally hand over to someone else. This month’s magazine completes twenty-one years for me in charge, while last month’s was my personal 250th edition, which passed without any comment from me.

Saltburn Farmers’ Market: we are back on Saturday, 11th February. Look out for us at the Community Theatre Hall! We will pack the hall with great fresh produce and artisan drinks! From sourdough bakery, fresh scones and Spanish pastries to sausages, scotch eggs and cider, you’ll find all your favourite stalls but INSIDE the community hall! 9.30 till 2.30 Saturday 11th February.

Saltburn Community & Arts Association Box Office: we have just recently started to provide a Box Office facility every Thursday afternoon from 2 to 4pm accessible down the path beside the notice board on Albion Terrace. If you are able to do so please continue to buy tickets on line (via our website saltburnarts.co.uk). That will keep you in the warm and dry and help us to make best use of the limited Box Office opening hours which are intended to help those who cannot access that service. If you cannot or are unwilling to use the website for ticket purchases then please come along on Thursday afternoon where you will be made most welcome and be able to buy tickets with cash or card and collect and pay for any tickets you may have reserved.

Random Stitchers of Cleveland: are holding their monthly meeting on 4th February and it will be From Paint to Thread with Lesley Wood. On 4th March 2023 in Sunnyfield House, Guisborough. TS14 6BA at 1.45 for 2pm, our talk is From Four to Eighty-Four by Jean Allsop, one of our members. April’s meeting will be on the 1st, Inspirational Journey with Gina Smith. Admission is £4 for members and £5 for visitors. Visitors are very welcome whether you are new to stitching, have been dabbling for a while or are a regular stitcher. Come along and see for yourselves. For further info please call Gillian on 01642 480344.

Saltburn Studios and Gallery: A big thank you to everyone who visited our Gallery before Christmas and came to our Open Studios, so lovely to see so many friendly faces. We’re looking forward to 2023 being full of creativity and new projects. A Happy and Healthy New Year to you all too. Our Gallery is open weekends 12-4pm.

Although since the financial crisis of 2009 the magazine has been in decline somewhat from its record 68 pages in one edition, it still remains a viable business and I have looked after it well. It has grown considerably since I first took it on in 2002; indeed, I have nurtured it. Shortly after taking over, one of the Saltburn therapists telephoned to congratulate me on having the courage to run the magazine. There have been times when I certainly needed it! The new editor from next month is Garry Stonehouse whom I congratulate on having the courage to take over! Note the new email address below. Love, Ian

Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by Friday, 17th February 2023) to: The Editor, Talk of the Town, Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, North Yorkshire, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 236110 (or email: hello@talkofthetownsaltburn.co.uk).

Ian can still be contacted at the old email address (talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com) and the phone number (01287 623903) and can forward any messages to the new editor.

Talk of the Town can be read online at the new website www.talkofthetownsaltburn.co.uk and with other messages on facebook at www.facebook.com/talkofthetownsaltburn.

Saltburn & District Retired Men’s Forum: we meet on Monday mornings in the coffee room in the Methodist Church Hall on Milton Street from 10:00am with tea/coffee and biscuits for a 10:30am start. We begin this month with “The Writing on the Wall” delivered by Peter Southern on 6th February. On 13th February we will be showing a video celebrating the life of Les Jobson who was the driving force behind Billingham Forum and subsequently tour manager for theatre shows such as Hi-Di-Hi. Mike Storr will tickle our fancy with “Master of Mirth” on 20th February. Dan Scoular will come to our aid on 20th February with “Cleveland Mountain Rescue”. A speaker from the Great North Air Ambulance will be looking after us on 27th February. To complete this theme we have a presentation from Chris Harris from the Fire Brigade on 6th March. We are always delighted to welcome prospective new members to come along and join us. For further details please contact Ken Bladen on 01287 205153 (or email kenbladen99@gmail.com).

WI Report: We have had a great start to the new year. Not only have our walking, netball and craft groups picked up with extra enthusiasm but at our monthly meeting we listened to a talk from the Firemen Sam and James, who gave us a demonstration using ‘little Annie’ and a defibrillator explaining how this works and what to do in an emergency. Hopefully we never have to use one but we now know that every emergency should be directed to 999 who will instruct us accordingly. We held a small trip this month to listen to the Classical Cafe at Middlesbrough Town Hall who entertained us with a Viennese afternoon. We rounded off our start the New Year with a lunch in the lovely surroundings of Brockley Hall. It’s good to get together with friends. See also page 17.

Lesley Wilson

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 theTown is printed by DC (Yorkshire) Print, Mercury House, Grove Lane, Hemsworth WF9 4BB. Website: www.dcprintyorkshire.co.uk Tel: 01977 642331. Proprietor/Editorof Talk of the Town: Garry Stonehouse c/o Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, North Yorkshire TS12 1AQ. (Garry Stonehouse tel: 01287 236110.)

Cover Photograph: Fog rolls in over Coastguard Cottages by Paul Waugh

Saltburn-by-the-Sea: The Beach

Cath and Tony Lynn

Saltburn Beachwatch, a group carrying out a regular beach clean in 2000, with Parish Council chairman Joan Guy in attendance.

1950s scene of a very busy day on the beach.

Plenty of colour on this busy scene in 2016.

A re-enactment of a WW1 Christmas Day event by the Saltburn Victorian Footballers in 2014.

Demonstration of Saltburn’s last Lifeboat Mary Batger sold by auction 1924.

Donkey ride circa 1960.

The golden sands turn black on occasions with sea coal to the benefit of those with open fires.

“The Great Little Shop that Sells Everything!”

Offering Cheaper Prices on all our products, including Toiletries, Cleaning Products, Homeware Products, Greetings Cards and Much, Much More! Pop in and check us out. You will be amazed at what we stock!

We Now Take Card Payments

Temporary Open Times: 9.00am till 3.00pm, Tuesday to Saturday Closed Sunday and Monday.

SALTBURN METHODIST CHURCH

SERVICES

SUNDAYS 10.45am

WEDNESDAYS 10.00am

PRAYER MEETINGS

TUESDAYS 1.30pm

COFFEE MORNINGS

WEDNESDAYS 10 - 11.45am

COME AND JOIN US ANY TIME EVERYONE IS WELCOME

We sell Saltburn Souvenirs, Postcards, Fridge Magnets, Key Rings, Prints and Greetings Cards.

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council

At the recent meeting the Parish Council set its budget for 2023/24 and Members are pleased to advise that there would be no precept rise for residents for the forthcoming year.

The Annual Parish Assembly will be held on Wednesday 1st March at 6pm in Marske Football Club. Members of the public are invited to attend and may submit items for discussion in writing to the Clerk to be received by Wednesday 15th February.

It was noted that the Parish Council Carol Service had once again been a huge success. Approximately £140 had been raised and monies were donated to St Mark’s Church and Marske in Bloom. Thanks are extended to The Odell Singers and Marske Junior and Learning Brass Band for providing the entertainment and to Rev. Bruce Harrison and his team at St Mark’s Church, Marske for overseeing the event.

Allotment Rents can be paid at the allotment shop located on the Hazel Grove site from January 2023 - there has been a small increase of 50p (pro rata) to £29 per 1/16th acre plot.

Joanne Manning (Clerk and RFO to the Parish Council) 01287 623477

office@smnmpc.co.uk

www.smnmpc.co.uk

Saltburn Friends of the Valley Limited (SFOTV) AGM to be held at 11amNoon on Saturday 18th March 2023 at the Saltburn Woodland Centre. All are Welcome!

We, (SFOTV), are a small local charity, which aims to promote the conservation of the fauna and flora of the local woodlands and valleys. Volunteers are the crucial lifeblood of our organisation, being truly central to its success; we could not function without them.

We promote ‘lifelong learning’ via running practical activities, such as gardening and nature inspired arts and crafts workshops, which connect children and adults with the beautiful, natural local environment. These activities are orientated around the Saltburn Woodland Centre, where we hold a full repairing and maintenance 25 year lease from the local council; managing the gardens and centre too. This wonderful venue, which is maintained purely by volunteers is available to hire. Encouraging groups to form and re-gather post-Covid and in response to the national financial situation, the trustees have decided that activity facilitators can request reduced and negotiated hire fees.

All of this would not be possible without the continued support from local businesses, the community, parents and families that volunteer with us; attending our events and making those invaluable donations.

We wish to acknowledge and say a huge THANK YOU to Ingrid Salomonsen, who sadly passed away in December 2022. It is thanks to Ingrid’s dedication and hard work that we were able to register as a charity and Company Limited by Guarantee.

You can find out more about what we do and perhaps join us as a volunteer at our Annual General Meeting. We very much look forward to seeing you there.

MILES, HUTCHINSON & LITHGOW SOLICITORS

Conveyancing (Domestic and Commercial)

(Free written quotation on request)

Property Leases

Probate and Wills

Divorce and related Property and Financial Issues

Children Disputes

Immigration, including Visas, Leave to Remain Naturalisation, Passport applications and EEA Applications

Powers of Attorney

Deputyships

Civil and Criminal Litigation

Also at 68/70 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH Tel: 01642 242698.

e-mail mileshutch@aol.com for enquiries at both offices.

Luxury kitchens and furniture at surprisingly affordable prices!

T: 01287 201876 M: 07737 654772

E: darrenflintoff@yahoo.co.uk

A: Unit 2, The Drive, Longbeck Industrial Estate. Marske, TS11 6HB

Website: www.flintoffs.co.uk

Saltburn Cheese Festival

Monday 20th to Sunday 26th March

A week of themed cheese events in some of Saltburn’s loved Cafes/ Bars and Restaurants culminating in a tasty cheese festival based in and around Saltburn Theatre on Sunday 26th March.

Great Northern Cheese Makers, cookery demos, artisan producers, music, Mac N Cheese, Toasted Cheese Street Food Van. Check out Saltburn Cheese Festival Website for up to date details.

Feel healthier, uplifted & energised! Fridays: 10am

Easy to follow Latin dance workout. Mondays: 6pm Thursdays: 10am

Any dancing queens out there? Mondays: 7pm

Yoga, Ballet, Pilates fitness class. Wednesdays: 7pm

Movement and meditation to a Psalm. Saturdays: 9.30am

For ALL INFORMATION & BOOKING, visit: www.dancefitsaltburn.co.uk or contact Estelle on 07887 525234

Councillors’ Column

An ignominious start to the year, learning that Saltburn’s Blue Flag has been withdrawn. Sea water quality needs to meet and sustain certain criteria so the beach can continue to qualify for its coveted flag. Unfortunately, water samples did not maintain previously achieved standards. Considerable lobbying efforts have been made to request increased sampling and analysis to determine where the pollution is coming from. This lobbying will continue.

The application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for financial support to address the neglect of the Valley Gardens, and hopefully remove it from Historic England’s At Risk register, has failed. One fundamental reason given was the lack of planned maintenance and medium term planning in the Gardens, together with a questionable level of bid in a very competitive market place. Saltburn Valleys CIO will be seeking to increase the level of volunteering to support the low level of local authority commitment and to press for a suitable woodlands and environmental strategy to be in place to allow an application to regain the previously lost Green Flag award for the town. This may be more obtainable than revisiting the sea water award challenge as no resources are available at local level, these needing to come from a water authority and central government agencies.

In the midst of consultation on proposed budget setting for 2023/24, some of the suggested fees and charges were abruptly withdrawn, leaving gaps in potential income to be filled and residents wondering at the decision making process. Agreement on how much Council Tax will rise should be reached during this month. Significant deficits have been identified and reserves will have to be run down. It may be that parking fees will still be introduced in certain areas as the

Transport Strategy is rolled out. The Saltburn Masterplan was still not published at time of going to press and there will undoubtedly be some radical thinking contained therein. Whatever the recommendations there will be full public consultation before any implementation. In practice this probably rules out any civil works on Marine Parade before the end of the year, but the requested car park beside the pumping station has a reasonable possibility of going ahead before the summer season.

19,000 trees are to be planted in the Borough this financial year. None were allocated to Saltburn but a request to replace the trees in Cherry Tree Walk that failed, and those that disappeared, after last year’s planting has been responded to.

The latest investigation into the saga of the mass crustacean die off has dispelled the algal bloom theory that was suggested the original most likely cause of the catastrophe. In its place is a foreign viral invasion. What has happened to marine biological science?

Aficionados of the ‘Open All Hours’ bookcase will have followed its saga along Sainsbury’s wall.

May 6th will soon be with us. Any planning for street parties should begin at the earliest opportunity, given the lead time for approval, unless a Royal Warrant is held.

Philip Thomson

Saltburn in Bloom

It’s official, we are entering the 2023 Northumbria in Bloom competition. After having had a year out to regroup post Covid, we have agreed to have another go. The last time we were in the competition was in 2019 where we won best coastal resort in the region and a place in Britain in Bloom where we would have been pitted against the best coastal resorts in England. As we all know, though, that didn’t happen, instead we had to stay indoors, keep our distances, take one hour’s exercise in the fresh air, if allowed, no gatherings, no parties, no being political.

We will be thinking very carefully about how we run and manage our campaign this year. We are all getting older and the sheer volume of venues we used to take the judges to visit on their tour of our lovely town, is no longer sustainable. We are going to go for that old adage “less is more” and show them the very best of the best we have on offer. For this we are going to need some help. A few new members of the gardening team would be hugely welcomed. With gardening more hands really do make for lighter work and we can be contacted on facebook or saltburn.in.bloom@gmail.com.

Entering Northumbria in Bloom is always a joint effort. It’s by no means just Saltburn in Bloom, it’s other groups as well who garden and keep Saltburn tidy and beautiful. In the old days the competition was very much about floral displays such as could be found tended by council parks departments. This hasn’t been the case for many years now and, although there’s no getting away from the fact that horticulture is paramount, fast on the heels come

the involvement of our many community groups in town and, how sustainable we are making our activities. Of course we know there are many groups caring for Saltburn in many ways but, if you are aware of a group, or an individual for that matter, doing marvellous things where you think some recognition would go a long way, let us know as it would be great to involve new faces in our joint efforts.

Scouts, toddler groups, schools, allotments, streets who keep their green spaces clean, residents proud of their front gardens, conservation projects, clubs, pubs, stations, litter pickers, our councils, beach watchers, community venues, (those I’ve forgotten) you are all important. We are really dipping our toes in the water again, in preparation for possibly big, multifaceted celebrations in 2025 when our railway has a significant birthday. We will be judged twice, in spring and summer (only Northumbria has judging in spring but it’s a more informal way for judges to see what we have planned for them in the summer and it gives us a trial run).

So.... don’t hesitate, don’t think twice, get in touch with any ideas you might have, people you know, groups who you see make a difference and let’s work on what, together we can do to make Saltburn even more special this year.

Sue

Suzy Graham-Adriani

Do you want help with

• Public Speaking?

• Auditions?

• Scriptwriting?

Then visit me at sgadriani200@gmail.com

A bespoke service where I can come to you or you can come to me.

Still searching….

We are a retired couple, currently temporarily renting, who have moved to Saltburn to be closer to family. We have now sold our home and are looking for a 3-bedroom bungalow /house in the town with a south/sw/se facing rear garden.

If you’ve been thinking about moving and think that your property might fit the bill, how about giving us cash buyers a ring (or by sending us an email on thosepipers@yahoo.co.uk)? Thank you.

Jim and Doris Piper Mob: 07860 361258 /07882 210055

Contacting Your Councillors

Cllr. Craig Hannaway 07561 467168

craig.hannaway@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Cllr. Stuart Smith 07557 540628

stuart.smith@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Surgery held outside Sainsbury’s every 3rd Saturday morning

Cllr. Philip Thomson 07747 044858

philip.thomson@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Happiness and Imagination

Ikigia is a Japanese concept that might literally translate as a reason for being. The cross section of what you love, what the world needs, what you can be paid for and that which you are good at. It’s felt in the flow state, where focus meets the creative in a form of mediation.

All that is possible is possible because I can imagine it. Sometimes it feels to me that I’m only limited by what I can dream. I think I know my Ikigai, or can I have two? I love how I can flow when I travel and I feel alive when I work as a therapist. Yet perhaps my biggest struggle is that I can’t work out where I want to go.

Achievement I heard it said is motivation meeting opportunity. I’ve been waiting for years for opportunity to land at my door. I keep working and offering myself freely. But it feels like it’s not for someone else to give me but for myself to move towards. Yet if I can’t picture it clearly enough I don’t know where to go.

I remember many years ago when I had a fresh new philosophy degree I felt more lost than ever, unwilling to be a professor and without the necessary attributes and no knowledge of what on earth I wanted to do. I had travelled and had always thought if I travelled long enough what I really wanted to do would jump out at me. Yet it never did. So I decided to change that waiting mentality and recognise that around me was three hundred and sixty degrees of opportunity. I knew the direction I didn’t want to go in. So I turned away from that and decided that all I needed to do was walk the other way, towards what felt fun. I always imagined I was starting on a wide path and in time it would thin down until I found my specialist place. So I started walking, training, getting experience. I’ve specialised somewhat yet I still can’t see where I’m going. And if I’m honest I feel unfulfilled because of it.

Of course one way of alleviating that is to pull back on what I hope for from life. Yet I want to be honest with myself and not pretend my passion doesn’t exist.

It’s not the same with all areas of my life. When I travel I can picture how to stretch myself and almost always achieve my aim. Overland from Bolivia to Canada, From Nepal to the south of India, the whole coast of Great Britain and round the world. I think it and one day months later it’s done.

However, in work I can’t picture it in the same way. I crave the vision and the opportunity and in the meantime I settle. I have regular clients and I run groups (incidentally the next few months on the first Saturday, Earthbeat 1pm, a chance to move and relax into yourself). I love these groups, yet mostly they are within my comfort zone. I feel that smallness of my reach matching the near-sightedness of my gaze.

I often feel like a racehorse that encloses itself, ready and willing to run like the wind. Yet the best I manage is a gallop and then ease back to a walk and then to my stable again.

Time ticks by, one sun rises and one falls. My skin looks older but myeyes remain the same.

In time I will die and fade away. In a few generations my memory will be but another wave that once hit the shore and sank into the sand.

Yet I’m conscious of my existence as an intelligent animal. My body feels full of offerings, gifts I have yet to give. I feel I know my Ikigai but I don’t know where to fulfil it. The journey for all of us is the same, to picture what we want and then to be on our way.

Reflect and flow, New Group on February 4th, 1-4 pm Earthbeat. Or counselling / psychotherapy one-to-one. CONTACT: Kendal 07944 883961.

How to be supplement savvy

Nutrition supplements can be a great addition to your diet, but it’s important to choose the right ones for your individual needs. So let’s go over some tips to help you make informed decisions about which supplements to add to your daily routine, and how to choose ones of the highest quality.

First, it’s important to understand that supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet, remember, you can’t out -supplement a poor diet. They are designed to be used in addition to a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. If you’re not eating a balanced diet, it’s unlikely that any supplement will make up for that.

That being said, there are certain groups of people who may benefit from taking certain supplements. For example, vegetarians and vegans may need to take a supplement that contains B12 which is mainly found in animal products. Similarly, this group may also need to supplement with a vegan source of vitamin D3, such as lichen.

Another important factor to consider is your age. As your body gets older, its ability to absorb certain nutrients decreases, so you may need to take a supplement to ensure you’re getting enough of those nutrients. For example, older adults may benefit from taking a vitamin D supplement. However, it is recommended that all adults in the UK supplement with at least 10mcg of vitamin D.

When choosing a supplement, it’s important to look for a reputable brand. The market is saturated with longstanding market leaders as well as new disruptors. The competition is fierce and attractive marketing doesn’t necessarily mean a high quality product. You should also check the label to make sure that the supplement contains the ingredients or ingredients that you’re looking for, and that it’s free of any contaminants or harmful ingredients.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor or dietitian before taking any new supplement. They will be able to give you personalised advice based on your medical history and dietary needs. Dosage and usage instructions are also important, for example, taking iron supplements alongside caffeine will hinder absorption.

Another final point to consider is that reviews of supplements should be taken with a pinch of salt. What works for one person might not work for another. Factors such as bioavailability, absorption, metabolism and drugnutrient interactions all need to be considered which is why gaining professional advice is usually recommended.

In summary, supplements are simply supplementary. They can support the body to function at its best and help you to feel energised. However, it is crucial that you seek out professional advice prior to embarking on a new regime as they can be an expensive mistake to make. Always remember to keep in mind your age, lifestyle and other factors that might impact how a supplement works in your body.

If you enjoyed this article and are interested in more health and nutrition advice, head over to my social platforms. Instagram - @truenorth_nutrition, Facebook - True North Nutrition.

I am a registered Nutritionist and Dietitian in training helping people to find diet, exercise and lifestyle strategies that support optimal health and wellness.

KICAS News

Thank you to everyone who braved the cold wet weather to join us in January for our first beach clean of 2023. We will continue to hold our monthly beach cleans throughout the year, hopefully the weather will improve.

We meet on the first Saturday of each month between 11am and 12am at the Victorian Shelter on the lower promenade. Buckets, pickers and gloves are available; however, feel free to bring your own.

We will be meeting on the following dates: February 4th, March 4th, April 1st, May 6th, June 3rd, July 1st, August 5th, September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th and December 2nd.

f you are able to join us on any of these dates, we would love to see you.

Further updates can also be found on Facebook (Keeping It Clean At Saltburn) and Instagram (kicasaltburn).

Many thanks for your ongoing support, KICAS.

Saltburn Charity Crafters

In January we had a short break but the group will meet again on 1st February 2023, and then the first Wednesday of the month, in the Coffee Room, Community Arts Centre, from 1.30 – 3.30. Please join us for a hot drink and friendly chat.

For any details please contact Chris on 01287 204170. Thanks again to everyone who has supported us in 2022 and we look forward to 2023.

Saltburn Miniature Railway

We have seen more investment into Saltburn’s premier attraction. We are continuing to update/replace the old track with new rail of thicker and longer sections. The rail is measured in lbs/yard (if you are metric then you will have to convert it), the old rail is 28 lbs/yard and in 16ft lengths whereas the new is 35 lbs/yard. and 40ft long. This will give a better quality of ride and adhesion for the locomotive as it uphills all the way from Cat Nab to Forest Halt.

Robert Proctor (chair)

Saltburn 500 Club

Congratulations go to the following winners in the January 500 Club draw: J Westgarth (£100), G Shafto (£50), L Alcock (£25) and J Gallilee (£15).

The membership of the 500 Club is gradually growing and we currently have 430 paid-up members. With your help, we would like to get this number back to 500 so please consider joining us, or, if you are already a member, try talking your neighbour into joining. The membership subscription cost remains at £12 per annum and application forms can be obtained from Saltburn library or Jackie’s Saverstore. Alternatively, you can contact Philip Walton, Membership Secretary, (on phil.saltburn500club@gmail.com). We are currently looking at bringing the 500 Club into the 21st Century by introducing digital membership application within the next few months. Phil Walton is stepping down from his position of Membership Secretary at the next AGM and we are in desperate need of a volunteer to pick up the reins. Phil has been Membership Secretary for approximately 30 years and has produced a procedure document for his successor to use as a guideline. If you are able to take on this role, please get in touch with any committee member and let us know.

Saltburn Christmas lights have now been stored away until November and I would like to thank all volunteers who gave their time to help with the lights - both bringing them out and storing them away. As age catches up with me, I’m finding that those boxes of lights are getting heavier and so my delegation skills are coming to the fore! Please let me know if you would like to help with the 2023 lights and join my merry group of volunteers.

On the subject of volunteers, we can always use more volunteers at the summer bandstand performances. The schedule for this year’s performances has been submitted to the bands and we are awaiting replies to see if all dates can be confirmed. We are hoping to have the schedule published, in the near future, for the performances beginning in May.

Saltburn 500 Club are currently supporting an effort to introduce a vintage vehicle show into the town and more details of this will be in my March article.

Hope you are all managing to keep warm in these winter months, after all spring is just around the corner.

Trevor Welburn Chairman, Saltburn 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn trevor.welburn@btinternet.com

G . Bishop - Decorator

Saltburn Photographic Society

Our February programme comprises:

February 1st. The Results of our Ladies Competition;

February 8th. The results of the Jarvis and Lynn competitions for sets of prints in Colour and Monochrome;

February 15th. A chance to see the Prints and digital images that were entered into the North Yorks and South Durham Inter Club Competition last year;

February 22nd. A change to the previously published programme. We will be showing the Portfolio images from the Northern Counties Photographic Federation 2022 and the Images from the NCPF International Salon from last year.

All meetings are held at the Methodist Church Hall, Milton Street, Saltburn. Tea and coffee is available from 7pm to allow for some socialising prior to the meeting starting at 7.30pm. Guests are always welcome.

For more information, visit our website www.saltburnphotographicsociety.co.uk, follow us on Facebook or contact Phil Dove on 07976 634252.

Three sessions on Tuesdays at 3.30, 5.30 or 7.00pm at Emmanuel Church Hall

And Saturdays three sessions at Earthbeat Centre. 7.30, 9 and 10.30am. No booking required.

Please contact Stevie 07740 725210. A warm welcome is waiting

Saltburn Women’s Institute

Inspiring Women

When I mention to people that I am a member of the s Institute, people quite often assume I can bake, make jam, arrange flowers and throw a pot when t! That’s not to say I’m not

However, when questioned, our members say friendship and camaraderie are the main reasons for joining and staying with this long-standing organisation. Sometimes ladies have just moved into the area or find themselves alone and are looking for something new to

The meetings and groups simply provide the minded folk. The WI is not a secret society that you will need special skills to be a s something you can pick up when you need

Here in Saltburn we offer lots of opportunities to meet and learn from others. Our monthly meeting at Emmanuel Church Hall is when we gather to listen to a speaker, enjoy a cuppa and hear about future activities. Our guest speakers are quite often local people who have knowledge they can share varying from local history to charitable organisations. As part of the wider WI Federation, we can take part in lots of activities with other members elsewhere in Teesside, such as walks, visits to places of interest and treasure hunts. Transport is rarely a problem as we all go together if we can.

But our activities here in Saltburn aren’t just once a month: we have a very successful book club which meets in The Marine on the third Thursday of the month. A brief discussion about the book is shortly followed with a bar meal and a chat. We also have a supper club (or sometimes a lunch club) where we try different pubs and restaurants, again a chance to go out together.

Walking groups provide that little bit more exercise and a chance to see our lovely surroundings both in the country and by the sea. These walks are not too long but enough to get you panting for the coffee that will no doubt follow! Our craft group meets monthly, this is the chance to develop or learn new skills with lots of laughs thrown t have to be an expert, but we hope you will

This is just a snapshot of what we do, if you want to try before you join then your first three meetings are free, s for you, but it’s also a chance for you try some of the activities I’ve mentioned and get to know us. As soon as you walk through the door there will be a warm welcome, so you don’t have that feeling of walking into a busy room alone.

The good thing about the WI is that you may come alone but will leave with new friends. If you want more information please get in touch with Diane, our secretary at saltburnbytheseawi@gmail.com who will be happy to help, or come along to the Emmanuel Church Hall on the second Friday of every month at 7pm.

Lesley Wilson

Cleveland Diving Club

While winter underwater sea diving may be limited, for some, a keen interest in marine creatures cannot be, in all honesty, quelled when one lives so close to the sea. Catching sight of marine mammals such as seals and dolphins is very exciting and spotting nomadic pods of dolphins skimming the waves is truly spell binding (Photo 1). It’s hard to imagine that millions of years ago dolphins were once terrestrial creatures who have since evolved back to the sea. For dolphin spotters a little knowledge can greatly enhance their quest when seeking to spot them again. For example, during spring and summer dolphins hunt migrating salmon on a rising tide (flood tide) therefore, knowing moon phases and tide predictions are a distinct advantage.

The Common Dolphin (photo 2) is the more frequent visitor to the North Sea along with Bottle Dolphins. Being inquisitive, sociable and fun-loving dolphins love interacting with boats, swimming, leaping and showing off their water aerobics antics as they travel along with it (photo 3). This is great for divers using a rib to get to a dive site which is when some of these photos were taken. Renowned for their intelligence and whistling communications dolphins have a diverse language to the point each dolphin has its own whistle signature i.e. name.

As a species, dolphins are masters of how marine mammals live successfully in the sea. For example, they can reach speeds of up to 30 km per hour and dive to 1000 ft (304.8m) before coming up for air. In addition, having a separate breathing and food passage stops them from drowning as they hunt and eat on the go, with one of their two stomachs, storing food while the other one digests it. Another tale of two halves is how dolphins sleep as, unlike seals, they never leave the water. Being ‘conscience breathers,’ dolphins need to think about breathing as they would drown if they fell asleep completely. So, by alternating shutting down one half of the brain and closing the opposite eye while sleeping, the side of the brain not shut down can monitor the environment and control its breathing.

Unsurprisingly, as intelligent creatures, dolphins have a sophisticated and compassionate social structure within the pod which not only includes tending to the ill or older dolphins but also have a dolphin ‘midwife,’ who supports the live birth of a dolphin calf to ensures the calf gets to the surface for that all important first breath. Unfortunately, not all events can be covered and when this little chap became disoriented and exhausted off Redcar beach recently, humans were on hand to protect him while he rested before helping him on his way (photo 4). Depending on the species wild dolphins can live up to 90 plus years but this is halved when they are kept in captivity with smaller dolphins living as little as 25 years. Regrettably there are about 2913 captive dolphins around the world. Most dolphin species have yet to be considered endangered, but it is sad news for the New Zealand ‘Maui dolphins who are on the brink of extinction, a primary cause being discarded fishing gear (ghost gear.) Thankfully the actions of our regional ‘ghost gear’ hunters are helping to keep our waters safer for our visiting dolphins.

Cleveland Divers can be contacted via their ’Facebook page ‘The Diving Club-Cleveland’ or on 07960 608529.

January 2023

Redcar & Cleveland Twinning Association is looking for new members to join them on a visit to our Twin Town Troisdorf in Germany in May this year.

The Association was formed in 1990 and although our 30th Anniversary celebrations were postponed in 2020, we are now very much looking forward to staying with our German hosts again this year to mark 33 years of international friendship. See our website: www.redcarandclevelandtwinningassociation.org.uk for more information and pictures of past get-togethers in both Troisdorf and Redcar & Cleveland, as well as details of this year’s visit from 21st to 27th May at a maximum cost of £499 per member, including travel by coach and ferry as well as host accommodation in family homes.

Membership of the Association is available to individuals for £10 p.a. subscription, to families living together at the same address for £15 p.a. and to corporate bodies for £20 p.a.

At the Association’s AGM in March we shall be looking forward to resuming activities here and in Germany. You don’t need to be German-speaking to join us, anyone is welcome with an interest in getting to know this wonderful area of Germany close to Cologne, Bonn and the River Rhine and of course its lovely people.

For more information, please contact the Association’s Chairman Pamela (at chairman@redcarandclevelandtwinningassociation.org.uk).

Would you believe it?

To settle the question about the cause of the mass death of the crustaceans on our coast once and for all, the Government set up an ‘independent expert panel’ to review the issue last November. Their report, published on 20th January, says that there was no evidence that toxic man-made chemicals were responsible, so that means that there’s no reason why mass digging and dredging of the Tees to create a Freeport can’t go ahead without restriction.

But how independent was the report? According to Jenni Russell, journalist at The Times newspaper, the ChiefScientificOfficeroftheGovernment’sDepartment of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) appointed the Panel and oversaw it. It operated in private, met in private, did no original research and depended on DEFRA to supply the outside scientists’ work. It only met three times as a group, describing its operation as a ‘desk exercise’. Its membership was unbalanced – two members have worked for British ports and three had funding from DEFRA.

There were no fishermen on the Panel. Nor did the

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members speak to, meet or ask any questions of the outside scientists challenging DEFRA. The cross-party House of Commons Environment Select Committee had asked for an evaluation of the conflicting theories in ‘an open and collaborative way’ to ensure public confidence, but they don’t seem to have got it. The Committee was not allowed to learn who the members were before the publication of the report.

So what did the ‘independent expert panel’ conclude was the reason for the crustacean deaths, if it was not pyridine, the toxic chemical that was found in their bodies by the scientists commissioned by the fishermen last year? The Panel dismissed DEFRA’s original explanation of a natural algal bloom being responsible, but proposed that a ‘novel pathogen’ might have caused the convulsions and mass deaths.

Would you believe it?

Saltburn Rotary Club News

Christmas Carol Singing

Our Christmas Carol singing event, scheduled to take place round the tree in the Saltburn Conservative Club garden, was moved indoors due to some particularly inclement weather. The music was provided by the Cleveland Police & Community Band, and the room was overflowing with families, singing their hearts out on a brilliant afternoon. Grateful thanks to Stewardess Michelle, the Band of course, the Saltburn cold-water swimmers, (who let us use their reserved room for an hour) and to the kindness of the club members who spent £175 on our Tombola, the proceeds going to Rotary local charities

Chocolate Tombola in support of Saltburn Athletic (Junior) Football Club

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the inception of Saltburn Athletic (Junior) Football Club, a scheme set up in 1997, by Saltburn Police Officers to provide a sporting pursuit for local young people and ensure their physical

and mental well-being. The project was supported from the very start by Saltburn Rotary Club, which was the Football Club’s sole sponsor for those formative years. The football club has continued to grow, thanks to the magnificent support of numerous local volunteers (too many people to mention here), but who have all given, and continue to give their time and talents free of charge. The teams play on their own ground at Hob Hill, as well as Huntcliff School pitches, the other long-term partner of SAFC. The club currently has six teams ranging in age from 6 to 15 years old. Being a totally voluntary organisation, the football club rely on obtaining grants and of course fund-raising events. To this end, Saltburn Rotary will repeat its very successful Christmas Chocolate Tombola, this time donating all proceeds to SAFC, to buy and or replace kit and/or equipment. The Tombola will be at The Farmers’ Market on Saturday 11th March and supported by Saltburn Sainsbury’s. Please support us if you can, and thanks again to Lorna for accommodating us.

Rotary involvement with Saltburn Community Response

Rotary members were delighted to hear the report of Past President Howard Smith who attended the Saltburn Community Response meeting on Tuesday 17th January. It was amazing how many projects are ongoing, and the club looks forward to getting involved wherever and whenever possible.

Eileen died suddenly whilst staying with her mother in Welwyn Garden city where she was born.

She first moved to Saltburn in the mid-Eighties when she married Jeff and entered into his social scene, the folk club and various darts teams. She obtained work in the ICI site in Wilton for a while. As time went on she became a familiar sight walking their black Labrador Sooty and later 4 Scottie dogs belonging to friends.

Eileen became friendly with Jackie Taylor MBE and worked with her closely, behind the scenes, with secretarial help. Together, with others, they helped support Saltburn in Bloom, Christmas lights, the new bandstand and the 500 Club. Following the break up of her marriage Eileen moved from Eden Street to Garnet Street and gradually became less active due to mobility and health problems.

Derek Cirton, a local man who had been a friend for years, moved in with her and they led a quiet life together. Latterly she spent time reading and quizzing countrywide on the computer.

She will be much missed by her family, friends and of course by Derek.

Dave Sadler

Eileen June Robinson (née Morris) 22.05.55 - 28.12.22

February 2023 Things to do

Saturdays Generation Climate Group free for young people 11-17 years old Toc H Hall 10-12pm, rear of Albion Terrace and 5-7pm on Thursdays.

Live Music @ The Vic Pub 8pm.

Sat/Sun Table Top sale weather permitting 10-4pm at the Portico

Sundays Bingo, key to the box, live Music 4pm Saltburn House.

Mondays Saltburn Folk Club 7.30pm at Parlours.

Wednesdays Coffee morning Methodist Church 10am.

Tiny Tots drop family drop in 0-4years in Echo

1-3pm.

Health Walk meet near Sainsbury’s 10.30 start. Pub Quiz @ the Back Alex 7pm.

Thursdays Whippet Up free art & crafts for adults @ saltburnart Hall 1-4pm.

The Man Cave 1.30-4.30pm @ the Echo

Fridays Self led play group 0-4years Saltburn Library 10.30-11.30am.

Live Music Marine Hotel 8pm till late.

1st Age UK Chat & Drink 1-2.30pm.

Saltburn Charity Crafters meeting in the coffee room saltburnarts Centre 1.30-3.30pm. Saltburn 500 Club next meeting 5.30pm at the Cons Club. All welcome.

3rd &17th Sing-along @ Saltburn Cricket Club 2-3pm Carers-together Event.

5th Saltburn half marathon, a part of the Hardmoors Race Series start and finishes at the Leisure centre starts time 9am.

“Did you fart Day” Go straight to the pound shop for a whoopie cushion or blow your month on top of the back of your hand to simulate the sound when someone sits down, stand up, or moves!

7th Are you over 60 and would like to learn more about climate change, how it effects you, & how you can help, plus much more, email HELLO@THECUTBACK.CO.UK to book a free place starts 10-12pm @ Toc H Hall rear of Albion Terrace.

8th Saltburn Valley walk & cake @ Brockley Hall 1.30-

3.30pm or 2.30pm @ Brockley for anyone who does not want to join on the walk. Book A Space, a Carers-together Event.

9th & 23rd Crochet Class & Informal Tuition alternate Thursdays; 1.30-3.30pm @ the Library.

10th Teas in the afternoon every fortnight @ Saltburn Library 2-3.30pm. All welcome.

11th Make a friend Day Get yourself to the Farmers’ Market, mingle and make a friend.

14th Valentine’s day Send a card and keep them guessing, or Start a Couple’s Bucket List?

15th Free Dr Bike Sessions @ the library 3rd Wednesday of every month. Just drop your bike off between 10am-2pm.

17th Random acts of kindness Day. Make acts of kindness the norm.

21st Pancake day “Shrove Tuesday” 47 days before Easter Sunday. In other cultures Mardi Gras takes place on this date. Celebrate your own Carnival with ingredients you need using up, then serve in pancake wraps.

23rd Social Prescribers Cuppa & a Catch Up! At the Library 10-12.30.

24th Teas in the afternoon every fortnight @ the Library 23.30pm. All welcome.

27th Free Friday Tea @ECHO drop in from 4-6pm for soup refreshments & a natter.

Here are a few events that are due for this February. Should you know or are planning anything else that may interest the public please inform Saltburn Library so they can pass on “what’s on”; thank you. If you don’t have internet access please check at Saltburn Library any up coming events, and remember to pass on your Talk of the Town magazine when you are finished to someone who is unable to get a copy.

Thank you and God Bless, Saltburn Toc H Branch

Saltburn Skate Park

Phase one of the construction of Saltburn Skate Park has commenced with groundworks starting on the community project just before Christmas. The committee and a dedicated team of fundraisers have managed to raise the £160,000 required for the foundations of the skate park. Fund raising has now moved on to phase two of the project, the group need to raise £54,000 to bring the ‘S’ Path to life!

The Snakepath will be at the heart of the skatepark and is one of the top features the community of skaters are looking forward to.

The Skate Park is being constructed on Hob Hill, close to the changing facilities building of Saltburn Athletic football. The skate park group have a GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/skatepark-forsaltburn, if you would like to make a donation to their fundraising efforts.

Councillor Stuart Smith

My thoughts on Ukraine

Keep calm and don’t give in

On the 24th of this month is a full year since this ugly war began and sometimes I worry it may become the old news and as such it would be pushed down the list of whatever else is going on in the world. Mister Putin I’m sure would like this to happen, as he no doubt counts on wearing everybody down; make people used to it and therefore more willing to advocate peace at the expense of Ukrainian territory.

While nobody really says it openly, although to be fair I do hear such voices, we can just as well call it the World War Three. It is so because it involves the entire world and our future. From the day it started it is nothing short of war between people who defend their country, their freedom and sovereignty from a particularly nasty regime wanting to enslave them. This is why it very much concerns us all.

I began to draft this article late in October. Outside my window the sky is clear and a beautiful day is dawning but it is the same sky from which Russian missiles and the so called “kamikaze” drones are raining down on Ukrainian cities and towns. The Russian Federation is trying to bomb Ukraine into submission by launching missile and drone attacks on civilian targets in several Ukrainian cities. Officially Russians are saying they are aiming and hitting only military targets and command centres but it is yet another shameless lie in a long chain of them. I wonder sometimes – will these people ever say a single word of truth?

It is increasingly difficult to find words to describe what Putin and his government are doing. Striking residential buildings, streets, schools and parks is outrageous. These are the actions of a desperate thug trying to terrorize people who refuse to submit to his will. The Russian propaganda machine continues to lie and throw accusations at Ukraine and the West as if trying to sway public opinion. In their idiotic persistence they are trying to tell the world that it is actually our fault. It almost sounds as if Russia did not want to do it but had to because of the West or NATO or EU – whatever. In one of his obnoxious statements Dmitry Medvedev said only a Russian win in Ukraine can save the world from the global war. In this absurd narrative Russian propaganda omits one detail – it is Russia who invaded Ukraine, not the other way around. Over eighty years ago the Nazis looked at themselves as the superior ones, better than anyone else. In a similar way Putin and his cronies insist theirs are the right ways which implies that by this default everybody else is wrong. It is therefore right for them to destroy Ukraine, it is right to have their citizens bombed, moved by force to Russia, robbed, raped, locked up, tortured, executed and buried in mass graves. It is right to blackmail the West with energy or nuclear weapons. It is right to lie and kill as long as it serves the purpose of Putin and his army.

Newsgroup Medusa reported that in yet another outrageous move the Russian Parliament known as Duma is debating a proposed law which would remove criminal liability for crimes committed to “defend the interests of Russia” on the occupied territories of Ukraine.

We are witnessing madness, my dear readers, just like our parents or grandparents saw it eighty years ago. It is as bad or worse than Hitler or Stalin, or both combined. For no matter what your political orientation is, we can –I’m sure – agree that both were nasty dictators. The trouble is that Putin’s Russia is well on its tracks to outdo them both and the Russian propaganda machine works day and night trying to force us to accept their vision.

Late in WW2 out of desperation Hitler was looking for a wonder weapon that could turn the tide of war in his favour and he thought he found it in the infamous V1 and V2 rockets. Both were very scary and worked as instruments of psychological terror, but were useless as tactical weapons because they were not accurate. They could be aimed at London in general but not at any specific target. In a similar way Putin is now shooting the so called “kamikaze” drones and missiles at Ukraine. Russians are unable to aim them accurately. They can aim at a city but not at a specific place so in this random madness they fall on residential areas killing civilians. Does Putin care? Of course not, he possibly even likes it as randomness only increases fear among a civilian population. This is yet another form of warfare in an attempt to force Ukraine to submission. His other attempts are failing or failed so he found a new one. Are these actions the convulsions of a rotten system on the verge of collapse? One hopes so.

Putin’s “new order” he was threatening us with a while ago is mercifully not really dawning on the world. After so many years in power and surrounded like every dictator by yes men, he got used to getting what he wanted. And I am sorry to say, regretfully we the West helped by not opposing Russia when he snatched a piece of Georgia in 2008. We did not react when he annexed the Crimea in 2014 either. Central - Eastern European countries were warning us for years by repeating one can’t trust Putin. But we were always dismissing Eastern Europeans as too emotional with a tendency to exaggerate. And besides, business in Russia was so profitable for Western investors.

On the 6th of January Putin unilaterally ordered 36 hours cease fire for observance of the Russian Orthodox Christmas and asked Ukraine to respect it, while he cynically rejected an identical request for a cease fire for Christmas in December proposed by Ukraine.

He broke his own word because there were incidents of Russians opening fire despite his pledge. It is yet another proof showing that Putin and his thugs can not be trusted and are not interested in peace or anything else except what they want and it is Ukraine. This is precisely why we can not let it go in any way and must see Russia leave Ukraine’s territory completely.

Wojtek Migdalski

Saltburn Athletic Football Club

Prior to Christmas the cold weather played havoc with the fixtures but we are now well into the new year and games are being played again.

The under 16s have continued their excellent season with wins over Greatham by 3-1 and an easy victory over Darlington’s young bulls by an 8-0 scoreline and now are sitting in the runners up position in the league.

The under 14s are again having a hard season and although they won 5-4 against Wynyard they have lost to Ferryhill by 8-4 and to Hartlepool Pools Youth by 5-3.

The under 12s continue to play but struggle as they lost 7-0 versus Great Ayton, 3-1 against Whitby and then 2-0 against Dormanstown. I am sure a victory is just round the corner.

The under 7s, under 8s and under 9s continue to progress through their revised fixtures.

We have recently had all our pitches and the school pitches tested for quality purposes and we will continue to improve these grassed pitches with the advice given.

We are also looking to make further improvements to our clubhouse and working with Huntcliff school as we look to hopefully expand our teams and age groups.

Happy new Year to you all.

Andy Croll Club Secretary

Cleveland Mountain Rescue – an amazing local voluntary service

‘Entries are now open for the Cleveland Survival 2023! Saturday 18th March 2023 - sunshine is on order,’ announce the organisers of our local Mountain Rescue major annual fundraising event. As it’s a test of navigation on the day, the starting point is still secret, but it’ll be somewhere in the North York Moors/Tees Valley area and will be revealed just a week in advance.

When I meet Gary Clarke, Public Relations volunteer, he gives me more details about what’ll be involved: “It’ll be our first full run since Covid. Entrants can choose between challenges of 15 - 16 miles and 26 - 28 miles. They set off at 8.00am and get back by 6.00 to 7.00pm, before it gets dark,” he explains. “Most are experienced hill walkers, but some fell runners join in too.” (For more event details, visit the Cleveland Survival Facebook page and www.sientries.co.uk)

Gary, who’s been a volunteer for five years, helps at the checkpoints and takes photos and a video, which he assembles as a package afterwards. Others make sure that water bottles can be topped up during the challenge and prepare a hot meal for entrants after they reach the finishing line. The money raised through entry fees and sometimes sponsorship, supports the response to the 60 - 65 call outs that Cleveland Mountain Rescue receive each year.

When the charity was set up in 1965, two thirds of the call outs concerned missing people. Doing the 42 mile Lyke Wake Walk across the Moors was very popular then, but walkers sometimes got lost. Today, only a third of call outs are for missing people and these are often vulnerable individuals. The Mountain Rescue Team are asked to search for them by Cleveland/North Yorkshire Police or by the Yorkshire and North-East Ambulance Services. “We work at their request,” says Gary.

The people in need of physical help usually range from the late teens to people in their 60s and 70s. Injuries to the lower legs such as broken ankles caused by trips and slips are common. Mountain bikers often present with upper body injuries when they have accidents and there’s a steady number of riders coming off horses. Rock climbers may sustain back and pelvis injuries when they fall. Occasionally, hang-gliders need assistance but not in recent years, though.

When I ask if people are appreciative when the rescuers arrive, Gary says: “Yes. Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team members are often asked to go to hard to access places that ambulances can’t reach, so the injured may have been waiting for quite a while. They are very grateful when help arrives.”

The service responds to calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so numbers of trained volunteers need to be kept up. The aim is to have up to 50 Search and Rescue team members who have time to give, outside their work commitments. There are annual recruitment programmes to attract men and women over 18, who are confident and fit hill walkers. Mountaineering and rock-climbing experience isn’t needed, although it would be welcomed.

The next group of recruits will start training in September. As Prospective Members, they attend an induction programme for 10 – 12 weeks on Wednesday evenings at the Newton-under-Roseberry premises. After the initial sessions, they work alongside full members on the hills, learning about the equipment, the way to assemble stretchers and how to carry injured people. By January, most are ready to become Probationary Members. They will spend at least twelve months in this role, which includes going on the call out list, but always working alongside experienced colleagues. Continuous assessment takes place and most move on to be Full Members.

It’s quite common for experienced members to choose

to train as paramedics and even those who leave the team often return to help with casualty care training. Some of the Cleveland Mountain Rescue team are qualified doctors, so there is a flow of expertise in both directions. There are opportunities to take extra training to join the Water and Flood Rescue team. Gary says: “In 2015, volunteers were deployed to the York floods. In the last couple of winters, there have been call outs to rescue people who’ve tried to drive across fords on the Moors and got stuck.”

The tasks of the 10 – 20 Support Members of the Cleveland Mountain Rescue team include fundraising, checking equipment and cleaning vehicles at their base. They act as marshals at family friendly fundraising events, such as the annual Four Tops challenge, which is advertised in July and takes place in September/early October. “The four tops are Roseberry Topping, Captain Cook’s Monument, Highcliff Nab and Little Roseberry,” explains Gary. “Entrants are given options of a seven mile or thirteen mile route.”

Somewhat longer is the fundraising Whalebones Walk provisionally planned for 30 April 2023, the Sunday of the May Bank Holiday weekend. It will start in Whitby and follow the 22 mile Cleveland Way Coastal Path north to Marske. (See www.clevelandmrt.org and their Facebook page for more information.)

I ask Gary what’s best about being a member of Cleveland Mountain Rescue. “It’s the teamwork. There’s a great spirit. I like being out on the hills and helping people in difficulties,” he confirms.

Rosemary Nicholls

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SALTBURN BLUES CLUB

Unfortunately, I had to cancel the January gig as our venue at New Marske Institute is undergoing a complete refurbishment and it was doubtful it would be finished in time.

However, I am hopeful that the February gig will go ahead in what will be then a state-of-the-art concert room. I am very excited to see the completed work and then hopefully the future will be bright for Saltburn Blues Club and I think we will be attracting even more people to the gigs.

The February gig is on the 25th, 8pm, when we welcome back the superb Band Redfish. Redfish are an exciting new-ish Blues Band, featuring some very talented Scottish and Cumbrian musicians who create a distinctive sound that blends Blues, Roots, Jazz and Soul. They have appeared at a range of Festivals including Maryport, Colne, Skegness and Bowness Blues Festivals. Support is by local Band The Seaview Playboys. Tickets are £12 and available from The Spar Milton St., Saltburn, Ents24.com and 07960 935263.

We have a slightly earlier than normal Balmoral Acoustic Blues Club on Sunday February 5th 8pm at Saltburn Conservative Club with the first visit of Elsie Franklin from York.

“Elsie Franklin is the most natural blues singer I’ve heard in years, her guitar playing is pretty damn good too, uncluttered and tasteful, she really understands the genre. She’s the whole package.” - a fine endorsement by Dave Kally a UK Blues legend of The Blues Band fame. Reserve your seats directly with me on 07960 935263, £8 for this one.

Your weekly dose of the Blues is as always available via my radio show Still Got The Blues on Zetland 105FM, Alexa and now for Virgin customers on the app Radioline, Mondays 7-10pm. Or catch up on Mixcloud at your convenience.

Keep diggin’ the Blues folks. Harry

BREAKING NEWS as I wrote this article booking was made for Saturday 11th February in the New Marske Institute of the wonderful Alice Armstrong Band, see poster opposite for details.

Restless Souls: Clever new 21st century whodunit

Restless Souls, available from Book Corner, is a clever new 21st century whodunit centres on murder as conceptual art in Ron Brown’s new novel. Restless Souls introduces R.I. Penny, an academic and art historian who is a frustrated detective. Conversely Richard Hart is a detective and frustrated academic. Clashing in this conceptual art murder, can Penny out sleuth Hart? This is a whodunnit that pulls on the author’s artistic background and academic research at the University of Sussex. Restless Souls is an intriguing read that keeps you guessing till its very last page. Interlinking art theory, literary and artistic allusions and concepts into the plot, the author also pays lip service to the hard-boiled inflection and cliché of crime detective fiction. This contemporary and character-driven novel is a must-read for those looking for a less formulaic murder mystery. And, having been introduced to its two protagonists, many will eagerly await further sleuthing adventures by Penny and Hart.

“Theory, whether wanted, asked for or needed, was what Penny did best. He had a theory for all things.” Restless Souls plots the pathway of jaded art history lecturer R. I. Penny. Upon reading about the death of actress Kate Considine, found dressed as Ophelia from Millais’s painting, Penny feels complicit. Indeed, for Penny, trouble is never far away.

The book launch took place at Book Corner in Saltburn.

Published by Cranthorpe Millner Publishers, Restless Souls

(ISBN: 978-1-80378-055-9) was published on in January 2023 and is available in paperback and Kindle format.

WATER

The Bible presents to its readers a rich collection of metaphors that help us to understand God and ourselves. You will find God described as a ‘shepherd’, a ‘king’, a ‘rock’, a ‘stronghold’, as ‘light’ or as ‘bread’. Our English word ‘metaphor’ is derived from two Greek words: meta meaning ‘between’, and phero meaning ‘carry’. So, a metaphor is something that ‘carries between’ or ‘carries across’. The Latin equivalent is similar –‘transfer’.

Therefore, biblical metaphors are how the transcendent God ‘carries across’ or ‘transfers’ a divine truth into human comprehension and understanding. Such metaphors do two important things. Firstly, they speak about who God is and what he is like, and, secondly, they speak about our human needs and our response to God.

So, let’s briefly explore how ‘WATER’ is used as a biblical metaphor. What does water reveal to us about God and ourselves? As a starting point let’s look at the following passage from the Old Testament.

Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes. They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.’ (Jeremiah 17.5-8)

Over the past year in the UK you will have seen pictures of parched land, failing crops, and empty reservoirs as the rain failed to fall at the right times and in the right quantities. Without water plants stop growing, and in areas of extreme drought they die altogether. Therefore, we can say that water is LIFE GIVING and LIFE SUSTAINING.

In the passage above we can see that water is used to reveal that God is LIFE GIVING and LIFE SUSTAINING. Considering this truth, Jeremiah writes of two kinds of people:

The first is like a bush in a desert land devoid of water

The second is like a tree planted by a stream of water

The first person does not trust in God, but rather trusts in himself and other people. This person is not drawing strength or sustenance from the source of life. On the other hand, the second person ‘trusts in the Lord’ and receives life because they are ‘like a tree planted by the water.’ But notice that this person is not spared ‘heat’ and ‘drought’: they will experience the heats of stress and sorrow, the fire of testing and tribulation, and the droughts of darkness and doubt. Yet, they will continue to bear fruit because they are planted near a source of water, because they trust in God, the LIFE GIVER and LIFE SUSTAINER.

A key question the metaphor of water asks you is this: Am I planted by the life-giving source of water?

In the Bible the metaphor of water reaches its fulfilment in Jesus Christ. In the fourth chapter of John’s Gospel a Samaritan woman encounters Jesus. Their exchange reveals the needs of this woman, that she spiritually ‘dwells in the parched places of the desert’. Jesus offers to give her the gift of the water of life, that she may be ‘like a tree planted by the water’. The woman accepts Jesus’ gift. The same gift He offers to you and all people.

Every blessing, Rev Adam Reed

Emmanuel Church

Sunday Services

9.00am communion 10.45am worship

Tuesday Service 9.30am said communion

Morning Prayer

Monday to Friday 9.00am on ZOOM

Night Prayer

Monday 8.00pm

Contact Details

T: 01287 622251

E: emmanuelsaltburn@hotmail.co.uk

W: www.emmanuelsaltburn.co.uk

01287 622133

Email: enquiries@maidensbros.co.uk

Walking Netball

Fancy trying Walking Netball? It’s a gentler, easier game for ladies of any age.

Join us at Huntcliff School every Tuesday between 5 and 6pm. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a drink. At only £4 a session you’ll have the best hour of the week. Enquiries at saltburnwi@gmail.com

LEGAL SERVICES AVAILABLE IN YOUR OWN HOME AT VERY COMPETITIVE RATES

I have recently retired after providing legal services at a local solicitors for almost forty years and am now able to provide legal assistance in respect of wills, powers of attorney and help to deal with matters following a bereavement including the obtaining of a Grant of Probate. Please call me on 07402 777393 and I will be happy to visit you in your own home to discuss your requirements and give a quotation.

LORNA SMITH

Saving And Re-homing Animals

THE ANN PROSSER FOUNDATION

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.

Hi! We are Lily and Lavender.

Lily is a golden oldie! She’s around 10 years old, she’s an American Bulldog Cross. SARA rescued Lily from a dog pound where she was sadly due to be euthanized. This beautiful old girl deserves nothing more than a second chance, a home where she can have her extended naps on a cosy bed, safe and loved.

We know that Lily’s sight is not great and she has slight hearing problems but this doesn’t stop her from moving around safely and hearing the rustle of a treat packet.

Lily still enjoys a nice potter but can’t do too much, although every now and then will have a 30 second moment of bounding around when off lead in the play pen.

We are looking for a home where Lily can spend her golden years and will consider a long term foster. We really don’t want Lily to spend the rest of her days in kennels.

Lily is a very sweet and mild tempered girl, she will do anything for a treat and has loved any time spent with staff and volunteers alike. We are wanting a home where she will be the only pet and no young children, she needs a quiet life.

Lavender is an absolutely gorgeous 4 year old greyhound girl who came to the centre with her friend Tee, who is also up for adoption. Lavender is a retired racing Greyhound and walks lovely on the lead until she sees a squirrel!

It’s important that she has a good sized, private garden where she can enjoy having time off the lead. She could live with another calm sighthound, as she has enjoyed walking with other large breed dogs while at the centre. She can be a bit full on with small breed dogs as

she’s not quite sure what they are. Lavender always wears a muzzle whilst out walking, as do all of our retired racing Greyhounds. She could live with older children that understand how to interact with her in an appropriate manner.

Lavender has never lived in a home before, but all of the past Greyhounds that have been adopted from us previously have adjusted well into their new homes. She will need someone who will allow her the time to settle and adapt to her new environment. She has a lovely, cheeky character and adores to be around people so we know she will make an amazing pet once given the chance.

SARA fundraising events

Meetings for SARA supporters and the general public will now be held every TWO MONTHS instead of monthly but will continue to be on a Tuesday. The next meeting will be on Tuesday 7th February 2023 at 7.00pm and will be held at the Arundel Centre at Foxrush Farm, Kirkleatham Lane, Redcar. Hot drinks available and dogs welcome. Everyone welcome to hear news and

updates of the charity. The Shop and Cafe situated in the Arundel Centre will open each Saturday and Sunday 10.00am –3.00pm. Please join us for great bargains and banter. Dogs welcome and friendly atmosphere.

Please note that there are no events planned for February.

The Saltburn Profile

by Rosemary Nicholls

Katie Sapphire-Star

“I love seeing the girls grow and develop into confident young women,” says Katie Sapphire-Star, who is currently volunteering as Leader of the 1st Saltburn Guides. She draws on years of experience as a Rainbow, Brownie, Guide, Ranger, Young Leader and Adult Leader, which has included activities such as abseiling and travel to Switzerland and Australia.

Katie was born and brought up in Essex. At eighteen, she left to take a degree in primary education at Canterbury. But as her family originally came from this area, she visited Saltburn every summer to see her great grandparents, great uncles, great aunties and cousins. Now some of her family are still down in Essex, but her mum lives in the next street in Saltburn.

Katie first taught in primary schools in Middlesbrough and then moved to be a support worker for children with disabilities at St Margaret’s in Brotton, where she lived. However, her health faltered and she decided that volunteer roles would suit her better. She has recently been involved in the Saltburn Community Response’s Community Builders initiative. After taking the online ‘Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)’ training course, Katie worked as a panel member, selecting projects for funding.

Using an idea from the course, she has created a paper Community Directory, which is available in Saltburn Library and in each of the town’s community cupboards. “Not everyone has access to the Internet, so this can be consulted by people who want to connect with others, but don’t know what opportunities are available,” she says. “Funding and resources are in place for me to update it twice a year.”

To help people exercise outdoors during the pandemic, Katie sought funding for an outdoor gym in Saltburn. She has since been asked to join the Board of Trustees of Saltburn Valleys CIO and they are working together to investigate creating an outdoor fitness trail in the Valley Gardens.

Katie enjoys reading and is volunteering in a local primary school with the Coram Beanstalk organisation to help children develop a love of reading. “This really resonates with me,” she says. “I’m working with three Year 3 children twice a week for the year.” Her own preferred genre is sci-fi and horror and Terry Pratchett is a favourite author.

Katie volunteers as a Peer Mentor and as a Peer Supporter with Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind. “A Peer Mentor works 1

1 with a person who’s part way through their recovery journey. It may involve a general weekly chat or more specific small step goal setting,” she explains. “A Peer Supporter works with groups. Meetings take place mainly online, but some are held at Redcar.” Katie is enthusiastic about the Recovery College, which focuses on varied topics such as confidence building and mindfulness and she encourages anyone who’d like to self refer to do so through the local Mind website.

Occasionally, she walks dogs for the Cinnamon Trust. This national charity matches volunteers with animals that need looking after, because their owners may temporarily be unable to do so. In her late teens, Katie’s family got a Bichon Frise, a fluffy poodle-like dog, but before that she had a hamster and fish. Sadly, her cat died last autumn; she’s planning to get another one after some upcoming travel.

“I’m also on the committee of Cleveland Bat Group,” she says, “I’m the Safeguarding Officer and the Secretary.” At various venues, she helps organise bat walks, bat talks and fundraising for bat carers in the area. “We organise the collection of bats and a bat ambulance to transfer injured bats to a carer or a vet. Strict health rules have to be followed;

rabies is a very rare problem, but coronavirus can be transferred from humans to bats.”

Katie says she used to play drums as a teenager and the love of her life is seeing live bands. “My travels revolve around them,” she explains. “We go to Germany with Goths on a Bus every year and in 2022, we went to the Festival M’era Luna in Hildesheim. In 2023, we’re going to Berlin to see VNV Nation.”

Dressed appropriately in black, Katie goes to the annual Whitby Goth Weekend, where she enjoys Tomorrow’s Ghosts, the music part of the festival with all the bands.

“I wear Steampunk outfits too, as I’m a member of Teesside Steampunks,” she says. “We imagine we’re living in Victorian times, where everything is run by steam. We have Steampunk bands and fashions and we’re planning bigger events to celebrate the subculture.”

Katie has been a vegan for twenty years and finds it’s got much easier to buy suitable food. “Sainsbury’s now stock vegan chocolate and vegan burgers,” she says. “The choice is not just lentils or chick peas.” She used to be a vegetarian but her love of animals made it a logical jump to veganism.

She has always loved dancing, starting with ballet lessons. More recently she’s focused on belly dancing, teaching it at the Earthbeat Centre and running her own troupe for a while. She gives occasional performances and runs workshops, eg for interested Brownies – which is where we came in.

Thank you, Katie, for sharing your fascinatingly varied range of activities with us!

Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society

6 NATIONS – RUGBY UNION

Where does Rugby come from? Rugby is said to have originated at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England in 1823, when during a game of football William Webb Ellis decided to pick up the ball and run with it. Although there is little evidence to support this theory, the Rugby World Cup Trophy is now named after William Webb Ellis.

The history of rugby union follows various football games long before the 19th century, but it was not until the middle of that century that rules were formulated. The rules of the game can be traced to three events: 1845 the first set of written rules, 1863 The Blackheath Club’s decision to leave the Football Association, and in 1871 the formulation of the Rugby Football Union.

Today there are 6,600,000 registered players with representations world wide, the most popular being European and Commonwealth countries.

Great Britain has recognised the game of rugby on postage stamps on more than one occasion. In 1971 a single 9d (pence) stamp, part of a set of 3 anniversary stamps, as this was the 100th anniversary of Rugby Football, designed by F. Wegner. In 1980 another single stamp 13.5d designed by R. Goldsmith and in 1995 a full colour set of five, designed by C. Birmingham celebrating 5 historic famous players.

2015 saw the issue of 8 monochrome stamps designed by Hat-Trick designs and Geoff Hamilton celebrating the Rugby World Cup, both men’s and women’s teams.

We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month 19.00-21.00 at Redcar East Community Centre, Durham Rd, Redcar TS10 3SB. Come and join us FREE! See displays/ lectures.

Need help or advice with your stamp collection? Call MARTIN 01287 622504.

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Martin Snowdon

Saltburn Allotments Association

February is here again! There are lots of jobs you can get on with:

Mulch fruit crops to reduce weed and retain moisture leaving a gap around plants. Finish pruning autumn raspberries. You can begin to sow seeds if you have somewhere warm and with good light, just keep an eye on them for pests and diseases and you can chit your new potatoes when you have them.

Plant seed for salad or leaves and herbs under cover, don’t plant out yet as weather can still be cold. If the ground is not frozen you can plant bare rooted bushes and trees. You could still plant garlic if you have any left unplanted.

Make sure any greenhouses are clean for the new season. Plan your crops rotating where they grow to avoid problems.

If you are trying no dig you may want to gain benefit for the environment by using organic principles when you garden. It’s all about caring for the whole environment not just the plants you grow, and the bonus is your food is healthier and hopefully you get to see more wildlife in your plot and elsewhere.

There are lots of simple things you can do to help your crops grow without adding chemicals: good husbandry is a great start, clearing away any diseased or decaying materials as you go, keeping on top of weed growth, adding good quality organic matter to the soil, covering the surface around plants with a good mulch to maintaining moisture and suppress the growth of weeds.

Companion planting is another help for organic gardeners, using plants with strong scents to disguise other crops i.e. planting onion and carrots together is said to deter carrot fly or planting marigolds near crops can deter whitefly and other pests. I like to interplant and mix things up a bit, you can plant a ground cover on the surface to suppress weed growth such as clover under sweet corn, just make sure the corn is established first, or even try the three sisters method, using squashes between the corn and adding climbing beans to scramble up the corn, a method used by native Americans very successfully. It’s worth doing a little research and experimenting!

We are still collecting rents at the container or you can pay via Internet banking (Account is Saltburn Allotment Association, Sort Code 40-38-06 Account number: 61275089) using your plot number as a reference. Any questions please visit on Sunday mornings between 10 and 11.30 to check with our treasurer. A sixteenth of an acre plot is currently £29 and don’t forget to update any information with us that you have changed! Such as address or phone number!

Have fun in your garden this year; be ready for anything the weather can throw at you! Collect water, cover the ground under crops to keep them moist and beat the heat! If we change what we do it can help to give us a good crop whatever the weather.

Julia

Saltburn Community Response

On 17th January, we started the year with a celebration of what we achieved in 2022. We were delighted that 15 people attended despite it being a very cold evening. After some tea and cake (of course) we heard from people who had participated in our projects and discussed what went well, what could be improved and how they might develop in 2023. If you want to see a lovely gallery of what our community has been up to, please check out our website (www.saltburnresponse.com).

The discussion moved on to ‘hopes and worries for 2023’. And then to what creative ideas people had to make those ambitions happen and address their concerns.

Before we decide on what projects to get on with in 2023, we’d like to hear from as many people as possible. After all, SCR is a mutual aid organisation. This means we work with our community to make good things happen rather than coming up with ideas in a vacuum.

When we last asked about people what was on their minds, they said loneliness, the environment and lack of activities for younger and older people were their main three concerns. So, we focussed on those issues in our projects in 2022. With projects from alleyway greening to funding to the set-up of a sea shanti singing group (seen below outside Signals along with one of out back alley projects).

Now we want to hear, what are your hopes and worries for 2023? And what are your ideas for making things better?

Please check out our Facebook to join the conversation and for updates (or email us at info@saltburnresponse.com if you are not on Facebook). Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Rowan Mclaughlin (on behalf of SCR)

The Saltburn Crossword no 260 set by Dinosaur

Across

1 Describes Saltburn metaphorically for some and with railway accuracy (3, 3, 2, 3, 4)

8 Labelled in Vietnam editorially (5)

9 Decorative and streamlined structure on a car or aircraft which clean stirs the French (7)

10 Act of being an obstacle to progress which can din her arrangement (9)

11 Describes someone with long appendages, see Mister Clegg yourself (5)

12 Moral tenet provided by sweet hickory (5)

13 Enchanted Saltburn glade that might stir fry ale & gin (5, 4)

15 Watchfulness forever required forecasting I give clan (9)

17 Cloth mined return (5)

19 Stares good ones, bad ones? (5)

21 There’s always one top clan I’m mixing (9)

23 Cast a spell on tenth rally found (7)

24 Usually unpleasant sound from when Bruno is exempt (5)

25 Local fishermen association with strange ball runs all over the place (8, 7)

Down

1 Term for Saltburn environmental dales group that must tether heavy sell before reformulating (3, 5, 7)

Name___________________________________

Address_________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

2 Describing units of counting? Rune claim rewritten (9)

3 Describes former times when emboldened surrounds (5)

4 Colour of fruit like orange (9)

5 Surpass part latex celery (5)

6 Not licit but will egalitarian be too much? (7)

7 Each of us is important! Even ma’s Tory tree regrown (8, 7)

8 Beethoven’s? Coin in the concealment (5)

13 Saltburn’s inclined feature shows flare around the United Nations Intensive Care Unit without the east (9)

14 Making a sound of Switzerland doing yell somehow (9)

16 Describes the larynx at first giving last open test trade at London (7)

18 Simple and trusting is Donna I veiled in part (5)

20 Small tree or bush about with right at heart (5)

22 Euphoria of human Ian? (5)

Solution to Crossword no 259

D. V. Townend & Co

8 Dundas Street East, Saltburn TS12 1AH

Stylish Leisure and Outdoor Wear

Grisport Footwear, Brakeburn, Aigle, Scippis Biker Style Jacket, Exclusive Tweed Jackets, Hiking Poles, Picnic Rugs and Hampers, Leather Bags and Accessories

Tel: (01287) 623754

Email: info@dvtownend.com

d-v-townend.myshopify.com

Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 260, c/o Jackie’s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ by Friday, 17th February 2023. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Real Meals.

The winner of last month’s crossword was Chloe Buck of Garnet Street, Saltburn.

Saltburn Scouts News

Boom 2023, the Beavers are out to make the most of you! At the beginning of every term, we involve the children in a ‘log chew’ where they let us leaders know what they would like to get up to over the following months. This term is no different. The Beaver Colony fancy getting to grips with science experiments, trying their hands at magic tricks and sharing their passion for all that is Pokemon! Any science minded folks or members of the Magic Circle out there who fancy sharing their passion and skills with the group please get in touch, you’d be made most welcome!

Cubs spent the first meeting back in a ‘pack forum’. Scouting is a youth led movement, so it’s important that the cubs have a say in the planned activities. They have some big ideas for the year ahead!

Scouts have been working towards their Communicator award. We all know they can text and communicate through devices but can they use Morse code to send and receive messages? And the answer is yes, they

can, using torches! They also learned the phonetic alphabet although there were some interesting suggestions for the letters! Scouts also decided what they wanted their Patrols to be called; they will be known as Cobra, Kingfisher, Panther and Stag, quite a variety. They showed great teamwork coming to decisions.

Jo, Philippa and Karen