Talk of the Town January 2020

EDITION 223

CIRCULATION 4,600

JANUARY 2020

SALTBURN’S FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE 1

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SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK Letter from the Editor

Happy New Year, everyone! The new year is traditionally a time for making resolutions and we have a sense of renewal and optimism, even hope, but it can also be a time of great sadness as many of us suffer bereavements and loss. In December we said goodbye to our much-loved Tim Beswick who had contributed almost every month to this magazine with his „Once Upon a Time in the Wapentake‟ articles. See the full page tribute to him, written by Alan Butler, on page 6.

He will be greatly missed. I have been thinking recently about the nature of grief and how, the older one gets, it seems that we don‟t just grieve for an immediate loss, but for all the losses we have ever had, all at once. It is as if they mount up inside us and we never get used to it, but that shows how human we are, and to grieve is undeniably therapeutic.

I have said it before, but if I make any new year resolution it is simply to continue to produce this magazine Saltburn Farmers’ Market: would like to thank our many customers who supported us right through 2019. Saltburn is truly a beautiful town and with all its visitors it makes Saltburn one of the most popular markets for customers and producers alike. The market will now take a month off and return on Saturday, February 8th for a brand new season.

Random Stitchers of Cleveland are holding their first meeting of 2020 on 4th January, in Sunnyfield House, Westgate, Guisborough, TS14 6BA. The meeting starts at 2pm. Heather Waring (one of our branch members) is our speaker with „From Rags to Riches‟. Our meetings are for non-stitchers and those who are more experienced. Visitors are very welcome. Admission is £5 and this includes refreshments. Our February meeting is on the 1st February in Sunnyfield House, Westgate, Guisborough. TS14 6BA. The meeting starts at 2pm. This meeting is a Members‟ Play Day. We will demonstrate different techniques and you will have a chance to have a go. Come and join in the fun. Visitors £5. Any further info please phone 01642 480344. Thank you, Linda.

Emmanuel Church Hall Table Top and Collectors’ Sale: We will be back for our normal sales on January 18th, 2020 then the first and third Saturday of every month. Our rich fruit cakes are now on sale ready for Christmas. We are really taking off as we are using all three rooms and it‟s really busy.

It‟s nice that we have a lot of people just wanting a clear out.

In this sale we are using three rooms full of stall holders and we have also let some charity people in like different church groups, cancer charities and more. It‟s helping a lot of people.

We are looking forward to seeing you all again and thank you all for your support. We are also doing our usual lunches and all day breakfast, fresh home baked cake, pies and scones.

Home made refreshments and light lunches are on sale all day. FREE ENTRANCE and a warm welcome to everyone.

With over 26 stall holders, selling lots of bric-a-brac, books, toys, baby goods, and all sorts of collectables, there is something for everyone. Contact Denise Marshall on 07929 589538.

Cover Photograph: Sunset

and to survive through these difficult financial times. I don‟t share any of the false optimism and lies currently being made in the popular press but it upsets me greatly if any readers of Talk of the Town think something untoward has appeared on these pages. Mistakes can happen and sometimes I let something slip through that I might have thought better about when editing. However, I will not ever print a public criticism of a named individual. That is not what a community magazine should be about. I don‟t do naming and shaming. Love, Ian

Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by Friday, 17th January 2020) to: The Editor, Talk of the Town c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, Cleveland, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 623903 (or email: talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com).

Talk of the Town can be found on a new Facebook address at www.facebook.com/talkofthetownsaltburn.

Saltburn Studios and Gallery: A Big Thank You to everyone who came along to our Open Studios. Our Winter Exhibition is open the first weekend of January 2020, then our Gallery will be closed until March. Our Studio Artists would like to wish you all a very Happy and Creative 2020.

Walking Netball is a gentle form of netball, good fun and exercise, for all ladies. If you fancy joining us, we meet at Saltburn Learning Campus between 6pm and 7pm from Friday, 10th January 2020. No special gear necessary, only comfortable clothing, soft-soled shoes and some water! Cost £3.50 per session. Further information from saltburnwi@outlook.com.

Craft Club Busy Fingers: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, 1.30 till 3.30pm in the Coffee Room, Saltburn Community Centre.

Random of Music Cleveland (Embroiderers‟ Guild) are Saltburn Stitchers Traditional Workshops will meet on Friday in Saltburn Library this month on 12th June at 2.00pm.

See 10th and Friday 24th January in the Coffee Room at Saltburn Library article on page 10 for further details.

Community Hall. Do come and join our small friendly group. We play Traditional tunes at a slow and steady pace for everyone to join in. For further information ring Dave on 01642 316255. If you need to leave a message, someone will get back to you.

WI Report: The last meeting of 2019 saw the ladies of Saltburn WI enjoying their traditional Christmas event. We were entertained with songs and tales of the Lancashire mills, from Maggie Camp. Maggie gave us insights into the history of the cotton mills plus many anecdotes from her childhood in a Lancashire mill town, all interwoven with her own songs. We then enjoyed a delicious pooled supper.

Things will be quieter over the Christmas period but we meet again on Thursday, 9th January when the subject of our speaker is A Tonic for Everyone, the story of gin. If you would like to join us we meet at the Saltburn Learning Campus at 7 pm. You can be sure of a warm and friendly welcome. More details of all our activities can be found on our website www.saltburnbytheseawi.wordpress.com or see us on Facebook.

Diane Falla Glow by Heather Lofthouse

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, Mercury House, Grove Lane, Hemsworth WF9 4BB. 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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Saltburn-by-the-Sea: Early Photography Fortunately, photography was available when the building of Saltburn-by-the-Sea commenced and very old prints are still being discovered, and for their age they are of remarkable condition and quality. Locally the station master/postmaster Arthur Brown was a very skilled photographer and took many photographs, but we cannot connect him with any of these.

The Zetland Hotel almost completed and the first two houses of Britannia Terrace almost ready for occupation, built for the Stockton and Darlington Railway Company, the Pease family occupied one of them. The wide paths in the pleasure grounds had been laid out.

Hazel grove park before the stream was culverted.

A view from the beach of the Zetland Hotel, Balmoral Terrace and The Towers School.

An early view of the south end of the Pleasure Grounds showing a very simple bandstand.

John Nixon, photographer of Saltburn and Guisborough, is credited to this photograph.

The pleasure grounds Spa water fountain in use August 1866.

The Ship Inn and cottages with the Lifeboat Station, Rocket Brigade building and Mortuary in the foreground.

A beach stall holder makes his way up Cart Bank. The wooden bridge which was built for the NER company over Skelton Beck is in the middle distance.

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Old Saltburn behind Cat Nab.

Cath and Tony Lynn

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 Saltburn Councillors‟ Surgeries, each month - all on Saturdays

Every Wed. Library 4-5pm Cllr. Craig Hannaway 2nd Sat. Library 10am-12 Noon Cllr. Philip Thomson 3rd Sat. Outside Sainsbury‟s Cllr. Stuart Smith 9.30 -10.30am and 11.30 -12 Noon Cllr. Hannaway: 07787 880613. Cllr. Smith: 07557 540628.

Cllr. Thomson: 01287 624883.

RING IN THE NEW YEAR

BY WORSHIPPING AT

ON SUNDAY AT 10.45am AND WEDNESDAY 10.00am SUNDAY SCHOOL 10.45am Mums & Toddlers Tuesday & Thursday At 10.00am Ladies meetings Mondays at 8.00pm

COFFEE MORNINGS WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY at 10.00am The Church is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10.00am - 12 noon Drop in for a coffee /tea and a chat Drop in for a cup of tea/coffee and a chat For Hire of Rooms Ring 623145 5

One Last Time in the Wapentake...

A Tribute to Tim Beswick

Saltburn lost one of its most colourful characters as well as a man who was a peerless lover of the town and its surroundings when Tim Beswick passed away after a long illness on December 7th. It is going to be hard to imagine not happening across Tim whilst traversing the town or behind the counter of Real Meals, where he was so often to be found a few years ago, handing out amazing food and fascinating anecdotes in equal proportion.

Despite the fact that Tim appeared to be such an essential part of Saltburn he came here from Cheshire when he became a lecturer at Redcar Technical College in 1971. He always remained proud of his origins and his original home, revelling in his Viking ancestry and regularly returning to Cheshire for high days and to visit his family but he had not lived long in our area before he decided that this was the place for him. For the remainder of his life he walked the shore and the cliff top paths, fascinated by the wealth of folklore and tradition he constantly researched and became an integral part of the community.

Tim met his wife Sheila in 1984 and by 1993 they had formed a deep and lasting relationship. They were married in June 1998, in a cliff top ceremony that anyone present will remember for the rest of their lives.

This most unique of days reflected Sheila and Tim‟s reverence for the natural world and for the spirits of nature that inhabit our corner of this most stunning coastline. The affinity with the very soul of the place is a hallmark of both of them and was reflected in their relationship.

In 1996 there were big changes going on at Redcar Technical College and Tim was made redundant and finally retired. Not that this fact held him back. It was at this time that he and Sheila embarked on a project that would involve them in a massive amount of work but which would fulfil many of their combined ambitions to offer something both different and delicious to the town.

In a small shop on Station Street they launched Real Meals, which now occupies much larger premises in Milton Street. Working phenomenally demanding, long hours each day Sheila and Tim built something utterly unique and it is a fact that their efforts not only provided residents of Saltburn with a different and in many ways unique direction in terms of food but their efforts also had a significant part to play in the way the town centre of Saltburn developed in the years that followed – a baton picked up by Sheila‟s daughter Lorna and her son Dan. The very complexion of Saltburn as we see it today is at least partly a legacy of the impact of Real Meals, together with its philosophy and all that has sprung from it.

Tim was a fascinating individual, whose often surprising past frequently came to light during conversations in the pub or over an excellent meal – like 6

the fact that he spent six months living with African nuns in Uganda during the terrifying period of the Idi Amin regime in the 1970s. He was genuinely a man for all seasons being an avid reader, a seasoned and very descriptive poet, a lover of music, a regular contributor to this magazine and a researcher par excellence into the past and the folklore and the traditions of this part of the world.

As a story teller Tim paralleled and perhaps even rivalled the troubadours and travelling news bringers of the past that he admired so much. He was an unrivalled egalitarian, was utterly classless in every respect and never wavered in his political beliefs – even though he was always more than willing to listen to an alternative point of view.

Tim leaves a gaping void in our town and his place in the hearts of so many people will not be easily filled. At the time of his passing he had nine grandchildren and was much loved by Sheila‟s own children – who carry on the legacy of Real Meals and contribute as Tim did to the richness of our community.

Tim Beswick was intellectually irrepressible. His fascination for life and its rich tapestry never faltered and his later years were filled with the excursions of his rich and deeply intelligent mind into every twist and turn of our development in this part of the world, until he became as unique and fascinating as the very ground upon which our town stands.

For Sheila, Lorna, Dan, Greg and all the other people whose lives he touched in so many ways it is not going to be easy to come to terms with the fact that he is no longer amongst us as a physical presence but beyond the inevitable grief is the overriding knowledge of a person who got so much from life and who gave its gifts in equal proportion. His was a race well run and surely none of us could ask for more?

Real Meals Purveyors of Fine Foods

‘‘Tis the season to be healthy!”

Try a new herbal tea or add a tin of chickpeas to a hearty stew?

Swap your Prosecco for alcohol free fizz one evening?

We have plenty at Real Meals to beat those winter blues!

Call Real Meals on 01287 622266 25 Milton Street, Saltburn Open 7 Days a Week New email address: realmeals.uk@gmail.com

Councillors’ Column What did we make of last year? Will history consider it remarkable? Will some of our memories fade with time and never really be memories that are sustained?

If we run out of memory we can always refer to a host of very kind people who have taken time to record their thoughts on eras that unfortunately, or otherwise, have passed into that land known as history. Herodotus, Gaius Acilius, John Malalas, Jules Michelet, Edward Gibbon or Frederick Copleston are just some names that leap out of the past who have made their literal mark. Can we believe what they wrote and take for granted what is on the page?

Last year political landscapes in our area changed in local government as they did quite spectacularly in national government. How will these changes be recorded and what aspects will be recalled?

Some memories that stay with one for 2019 include the work done to welcome refugees and asylum seekers into our community. The ongoing work that also takes place in Emmanuel Church Hall, the Methodist Church, the Earthbeat Centre, Toc H and Saltburn Library, just to name some of the venues, where wonderful community work has been undertaken. In recent times the Evangelical Church in Leven Street has established itself, together with the Trussle Trust, to become a focal point for the Food Bank network which has been established throughout England, welcoming those in temporary need or requiring support.

All this happens on our very doorstep and may not always be recognised or recorded.

Another memory recalls the first train to arrive in

Redcar Station as part of new TransPennine service to Manchester Airport. This is the beginning of an improved service that will connect the Borough with the outside world.

Discussions are now being held to extend the service to Saltburn. More history to be written.

1825 recorded the first passenger railway not far from us. This will be recalled in 2025 with grand celebrations reminding residents of the Tees Valley of their heritage.

Many letters will have been written over the Christmas period remembering, or trying to remember, what we had enjoyed and achieved during that period.

Hopefully most memories will have been happy ones.

Residents are currently being consulted on the Redcar & Cleveland Budget proposals for 2020/21. The Council website can be interrogated for the suggestions and residents are encouraged to comment.

Residents are encouraged to be active in questioning what local government is proposing and delivering.

Councillors are tasked with scrutinising proposals to ensure that they offer value for money, reflect the needs of the community and are based on factual evidence. Reports need to be clear and verifiable.

If history is to understand what happened in our time objective recording will be helpful. Social media in all its forms provides a variety of pictures from radically differing points of view. Encapsulating these in one clear portrait is a challenge indeed for historians.

So, before we forget, should we consider reinstating the ubiquitous diary?

Philip Thomson 7

Saltburn Evangelical Church (Leven Street Mission)

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

Following Jesus - the Bible our guide

Here for you: WELCOME! Sundays 10.30am & 6.00pm www.saltburnevangelicalchurch.org.uk

Immigration, including Visas, Leave to Remain Naturalisation, Passport applications and EEA Applications Powers of Attorney Deputyships Civil and Criminal Litigation

For a friendly efficient service on all legal matters Tel:

01287 623049

Our New Address: First Floor, 15 Station Street, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS12 1AE

Also at 68/70 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH Tel: 01642 242698. e-mail mileshutch@aol.com for enquiries at both offices.

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 January for babies and newcomers to the town

Christina Simpson Bespoke Furniture, Joinery Fully Qualified, Experienced, Local Carpenter/Joiner 1st, 2nd Fix Doors, Flooring, Skirting, Loft Conversions Hand-Made Kitchens/Bedrooms, Painted Furniture Paintings Commissioned

No Job Too Small

Call 07773 091727 Email: simpsonc999@gmail.com 8

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A Battle Won, but the War May Not Be Over On a cold, wet and windy morning in late November over 40 residents headed to Redcar to hear the outcome of the planning application which would seal the fate for Saltburn and the Heritage Coast on which it sits.

As you may have already read in the local press, the application by the Camping and Caravanning Club to develop a substantial site on Saltburn Lane was unanimously rejected by Redcar and Cleveland Councilâ€&#x;s Regulatory Committee.

Following the recommendation by the planning officers in their 80 page report, and compelling objections by a range of national organisations and presentations by Campaign to Protect Rural England, Cliffden Court, Cllr. Phillip Thompson, Mike Lockey, St. Germainâ€&#x;s ward councillor on behalf of the Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council, and the Save our Saltburn action group.

The rejection was based on the wholly inappropriate location of the development and its breach of fundamental planning considerations. The location on the Heritage Coast, which was established in 1974, is simply ill-suited for this use.

Historic England, The National Trust, and Natural England stated that it is one of only three nationally designated areas to the north of the Humber Estuary, and that it would have a detrimental impact on the ecology of the Saltburn Gill SSSI. Sadly, it would be premature to celebrate and relax.

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From comments made during their presentation at the planning meeting there is every possibility that the Caravan & Camping Club may appeal the decision.

In its publicity, the Club stresses its commitment to engaging, and working with local communities; they should be in no doubt about what Saltburn residents think about the proposal. If the decision is studied carefully, and local voices are heard, the applicant will not pursue the idea any further.

Indeed, they would be acknowledged for acting responsibly.

If, on the other hand, they continue to push their plans in their current or revised form, they would be consciously ignoring the clear breaches of planning guidance and the strength of local opposition. It would be difficult to identify any legitimate grounds for the Council to revoke their decision.

The biggest objection in planning history of the Borough resulted in more than 400 people submitting thoughtful and compelling formal objections, as well as to the 1,718 people who signed the petition objecting to the proposal. This unambiguous opposition of the local community added greatly to the case that was made.

Thanks once again for this tremendous support that shared our pride in the town. However, we must remain vigilant and your help may be required again. In the meantime we would like to take this opportunity to wish our supporters a very Happy New Year and a positive 2020.

The Save Our Saltburn Action Group and Supporters

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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

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Saltburn in Bloom It‟s the end of a busy year and the weather‟s been pretty dreadful, although the few, sunny, crisp days we have had have been a blessing. It‟s time to relax a bit and think about this new year.

We value our volunteers hugely, as do all voluntary organisations. Without you we would be as nothing. We are always grateful for more help, though. We have a regular gardening slot on Wednesday mornings where gardeners and non-gardeners are very welcome. If you have a couple of hours to spare and/or would like to learn a bit about gardening, let me know or contact our e-mail at saltburn.in.bloom @gmail.com. I had a problem recently accessing the e-mail but that‟s resolved and I check it quite frequently.

Another thought about volunteering, if you don‟t have Wednesday mornings free, is that you might be interested in a bit of “pop up” gardening. There are a few of us who can‟t commit to Wednesday mornings who could pick a location and give it some TLC in an odd spare half hour, now and again. Just get in touch if you can help in any way.

We had a long and good debate at our recent committee meeting about whether or not to enter the Northumbria in Bloom competition and to accept our invitation into Britain in Bloom for 2020. Our gardeners do what they do because they love gardening and don‟t all relish the added pressure of competition. In the end we agreed to take part in both this next year, not least to see if we follow the advice given by the national judges we will, indeed, raise our entry from silver gilt to gold. We are going to need extra help though, particularly if there are young, strong people out there as we are an ageing group.

We have had to delay our celebration event, which will now be on 30th January. It will be at the Cricket Club as usual and I will be getting invitations out in early January so they don‟t get mixed up with the e-mails and post for the festive season. With this in mind, we agreed that certificates and medals would go to the library for display until the event, and then brought back to be given out formally to the winners by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council mayor. I hope to get them up in the library before Christmas.

Thanks everyone who helped, baked, shopped, ate or drank at our November table top sale in the Community Centre. It raised us just over £805 (some of which we pay back in rent) which will assist us with next year‟s bills.

Costs do mount up when you start to think about the plants, compost, watering and other expenses, which is why we are so grateful for so many people‟s sponsorship and donations. We will be writing to those of you who sponsored baskets and tubs etc. in the New Year.

Last but not least, a huge thank you and very best wishes for the festive season to everyone. (At the time of writing, the festive season is just starting, but at the time of reading, it will probably be over!)

Sue 14

Saltburn-by-the-Sea Garden Flat available for holiday lets Less than five minutes walk from the sea and from the train station, shops and local restaurants etc.

The property consists of a fully fitted and equipped kitchen, spacious and well furnished lounge overlooking the garden (which is for your personal use), and a king size bed with en-suite bathroom.

WiFi access Price - £40.00 per night (minimum of two nights) Contact Mr & Mrs Smith on 01287 623740 (home) Or 07988 838956 (Mr Smith mobile) Or 07877 384977 (Mrs Smith mobile)

Andy Pollard

07773006361 (based in Saltburn) Residential and Commercial Property Maintenance Plumbing, Drainage, Property Refurbishment, Roofing Repairs, Fencing, Carpentry, Joinery, Painting and Decorating, General/Ongoing Property Maintenance.

SPONSORED SWIM Set yourself a fitness goal for the New Year and help us provide vital swimming lessons to children in Vietnam at the same time.

SALTBURN LEISURE CENTRE SATURDAY 15th FEBRUARY between 1.15-3.15pm Choose your own personal challenge: 400m (16 lengths), 0.75k (30 Lengths), 1.5k (60 lengths), 2.5k (100 lengths) or 5k (200 lengths).

TO ENTER: SIMPLY EMAIL US AT HUEHELPSWIM@GMAIL.COM OR TEXT OR CALL 07891 171944 AND WE WILL SEND YOU ALL OF THE INFORMATION. THERE WILL BE A £5 ENTRANCE FEE TO SECURE YOUR PLACE PAYABLE PRIOR TO THE EVENT. HUE HELP WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2006 BY A YOUNG SALTBURN RESIDENT. THE CHARITY RELIES ON OUR SUPPORT TO CONTINUE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO LIVES OF CHILDREN IN THE CITY OF HUE (REGISTERED CHARITY 1117116) Around 8 children drown every day in Vietnam, the highest number of any country in South East Asia. Drowning is the single leading cause of death, claiming more lives than any disease or infection, and more than malaria, TB, HIV/Aids and malnutrition combined. The swimming for safety programme trains school teachers as swimming teachers, who then go on to train children in their schools in survival skills, safe rescue and water safety awareness.

Happy 15th Birthday to Podology!

This January Podology celebrates 15 years in business! The chiropody and beauty business, based at 37 Milton Street in Saltburn, is owned by Laura and Jonathon Dicken, and has grown steadily over the years. Podology has 8 treatment zones, 11 staff members and lots of fabulous health and beauty related treatments on offer.

Laura says: “We are partnered with some amazing British beauty brands like Elemis, OPI, LVL, HD Brows and Lycon. My vision was to bring top class brands to our small town clinic location, so that our community can easily access our health and beauty offering.

“As the years have gone by and we have grown, we have added more technology-led treatments to our podiatry and beauty menus. Podology is one of the only clinics in the area treating verrucas using the SWIFT microwave machine, which has brought great success to treating these pesky foot lesions!

We‟ve also added Clearanail to treat fungal nails.

“On the beauty side of the business, we have listened to our clients who wanted more results driven facials by introducing microneedling facials, and this January, we launch dermaplaning to complement our existing facial treatment offering. Last year Katherine Drysdale, our beauty team leader, introduced semi-permanent make up to our repertoire, in the form of microbladed eyebrows. This has been a great addition for those suffering with hair loss through over plucking their eyebrows or hair loss through medical treatments.

“We have seen many changes in Saltburn over the

years, but mainly the growth in tourism and the increase in visitors to our beautiful town. Saltburn is known for its wonderful sense of community and the fantastic volunteer network keeping our town vibrant. While this has been great to see, it‟s important to raise awareness of our small independent businesses. We are lucky to have a variety of great businesses here and I would urge the community to support the dreams of those small business owners and keep our town alive and thriving.”

Podology is open Monday to Saturday. Appointments can be made by popping in or calling 01287 622280.

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Emmanuel Church Hall, (off Windsor Road) Saltburn

Tuesdays at 3.30pm, 5.30pm or 7.30pm.

Earthbeat Centre, Marske Road, Saltburn

Saturdays at 8.30am For Details Ring

Stevie on

01642 474920

Saltburn Rotary Club News

Christmas is a time for family and friends and Rotary is no exception. Together with our Rotakids Club, we worked hard and partied hard. The work saw us working as a team to raise funds for the Salvation Army Homeless at Christmas Appeal and the TFM Toy appeal And then we partied. Our annual combined Rotary & Rotakids Christmas celebration was once again a fabulous occasion, as was our club Christmas dinner for family & friends. Carols outside Sainsbury‟s with “a Touch of Brass” was our final event of the year and a fitting start to Christmas.

As for 2020, the club starts the year secure in the knowledge that the leadership of our club is in good hands.

The leadership pathway has been determined and our next 3 Presidents elected. Congratulations to you all. They are: 2020/21 Harry Simpson, who many of you will know through his fitness classes and / or Saltburn Blues Club.

2021/22 Howard Smith, a Health, Safety & Environment Officer at Sopra Steria and Deputy Launching officer with Redcar RNLI. 2022/23 Rachael Gosnay, who many Saltburn residents will know, works in her family‟s long established Saltburn business and who will follow in her Granddad Alan‟s footsteps as club President.

So, on behalf of our President, Lou Foster and all the members of The Rotary Club of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, here‟s wishing you all a happy and peaceful New Year. We look forward to serving our community to the best of our ability in 2020.

Dave Sadler 16

Workshop Space and Gallery Arts based workshops and artwork by local artists for sale.

Workshop space available to hire articentriccic@gmail.com 07910 682695 1 Dundas Street West, Saltburn TS12 1BL

Articentric Community Interest Company

Workshop Space and Gallery Articentric is a new community interest, not for profit, company in Saltburn. We have workshop space to hold a variety of arts based classes and will be selling artwork by local artists.

Why not call in and see what we have on offer?

Open Monday to Saturday 10am – 4pm at 1 Dundas Street West, Saltburn TS12 1BL. Workshop space is available to hire at very reasonable prices and we have some gallery space left for artists to display work for sale. Articentric is committed to providing services for artists, enabling them to connect with each other and those interested in coming along to workshops and viewing artwork.

For more details emai l articentriccic@gmail.com, drop in or call 07910 682695.

Saltburn Photographic Society Wednesday, 8th January: Summer Challenge presentation. Wednesday, 15th January: NYSDPA Silver Salver Print Competition results. Wednesday, 22nd January: 3rd monthly competition results, Falling Water.

Wednesday, 29th January: Mike Kipling presents “My People”, a collection of people images.

A selection of members‟ work is on display in Saltburn Library, and this is changed every two months.

Practical night 7.00pm on Monday, 20th January Overview of photographic distinctions such as LRPS. Meetings are held in the upstairs hall, Saltburn Milton Street Methodist Church TS12 1EB at 7.30pm.

Visitors are welcome to any of our meetings; there will be a small charge. For more information, visit our website www.saltburnphotographicsociety.co.uk or contact Tony Lynn 01287 622519.

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Saltburn Athletic FC The weather continued to take its toll as many games were postponed with the pitches not playable due to the continuous rain.

There were, however, some games played, especially away from home.

The U9s were struggling to get any game time and even offered to switch from home to away but to no avail.

They were eventually able to play when losing at home.

The U11s managed only one game when they narrowly defeated Barnard Castle in a game which swung from end to end and was played in very windy conditions.

The U12s Sharks were unable to get any games played. The U12s Seahawks managed two games, a cup match losing 6-1 but an improved league match 2-2 versus Spraire Lads from Darlington.

The U13s have had more luck than anyone else and have played several games more than the other teams and although they lost away to Gt Ayton 2-1 they then defeated Kader 2-1 and astonishingly beat league leaders Riverside 7-0.

The U15s Falcons were able to play two games, losing both. The first against Linthorpe Accies 1-0 and then Brompton 4-1 played in a howling gale.

The U15s Dolphins had an excellent cup win when playing Billingham Lions, scoring eight goals without reply.

The club may well be looking at trying to introduce a new team for next season using this year‟s school years 1/2 but will need a parent or two to step up and be a qualified coach to run the team. A squad of at least 10 players will be needed.

The Under 12s Sharks would like to thank Geoff Bell (Farrell Construction) for sponsoring there new kit.

After the break in at our club changing rooms and containers the insurance company have now given the go ahead to do the repairs. We would once again like to thank all those who helped the club by donating gifts etc which were much appreciated.

As Christmas approaches and the fact that the next magazine won‟t be out till the new year Saltburn Athletic FC wishes all to have had a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Andy Croll, Club Secretary

Saltburn 500 Club A Happy New Year to you all. I hope your wishes for the new year come true and that you stick to your resolutions!

Congratulations go to the following Christmas Draw winners: M Pragnell £200, L Drabik £100, J Garvey £50 and S McFarlane £30. Application forms to become a member of Saltburn 500 Club are in the library or Jackie‟s Saverstore.

I am writing this on 5th December and we currently have problems with the tree lights in the bandstand and some failing motifs in the town. I‟m hoping that we can get through the Christmas season without any further problems. By the time you read this article, the lights will be just about ready to be put back into storage.

In last month‟s article, you may remember that I heralded the achievement that we had managed to raise the £13,500 which was required to erect/dismantle the lights and trees and, also, to refurbish the power supply to the lights. Some people have been left with the impression that I can now put my feet up as all of the work has been done.

However, this is far from the case because we have motifs and lights that are screaming out for refurbishment. To give you an idea of the cost required, we recently had to pay £300 to have the reindeer on Chocolini‟s refurbished.

We also had the tree at Gosnay‟s Spar/butchers done, as that was in urgent need of attention. We can only refurbish the motifs as and when we raise sufficient funding. We have ten motifs needing to be refurbished and my 2020 fund raising will be concentrating on having them complete for the 2020 display.

I have already acknowledged the generous donations, raised in 2019, and applaud all of those groups/ people that helped to achieve those monies. The community spirit in Saltburn is definitely alive and kicking and it gives me nothing but confidence that our lights will remain a top attraction in the area. I do have a pipe dream of possibly increasing the number of lights in the town and creating an even bigger wow factor. However, that will bring with it another cost.

The Saltburn 500 Club Committee have discussed the problems we encounter with the lights and readily accept the challenge to raise the extra required funding.

This does not mean that we have taken our eye off the ball with other projects/events in the town. Work has already started to put together the 2020 Summer Bandstand schedule and we are looking for any suggestions on how we can improve on what we have already got in Saltburn.

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

Saltburn Charity Crafters We will be meeting on Wednesday, 8th January in the Coffee Room at Saltburn Community Hall from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. The aim of our group is to enjoy traditional crafts and, at the same time, help local charities.

If charity crafting also appeals to you, please join us for a cuppa and a chat or, for more information, contact Kath on 01287 205242 (or email: kath.west45@virginmedia.com).

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Brotton Library Knit and Natter Group We are a small group making items for charity whilst sharing skills and friendship. It is free to come to the group. We have a few regular members and would welcome more. Thursday afternoon 2pm till 4pm in Brotton library (attached to Freebrough Academy).

Deborah

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Saltburn Cricket Club Our very Best Wishes…

Saltburn Cricket, Bowls and Tennis Club would like to wish all 450 members and their families a fit, healthy and sociable 2020.

A huge THANK YOU to the community for supporting the club in many ways in the past year, with both large and small gestures, and fantastic efforts on a voluntary basis.

As well as cricket, bowls and tennis continuing to grow and thrive, we have welcomed the Cleveland Divers, U3A Bridge, Discussion and Quiz groups, Bingo Players, Folk musicians, Blues Club enthusiasts and Domino players. Saltburn Athletic Football Club continue to work with our tennis club to improve the use of two tennis courts, through gaining Sport England funding for a Muga surface.

The newly formed Pool Team are playing home and away games and getting to grips with the league standards and competitiveness! The successful and very well attended Darts Championship event, held in The Nets building last November was such a great day and they look forward to building on the successes of this event, in the year ahead. Music events have been successful in the club house and The Nets building. The Folk Festival organizers have booked our venue for some of their performances in August.

As well as all the above sporting activities, we welcome into the clubhouse athletes who have played volleyball, been swimming, done circuit training, played indoor bowls or been out on our wonderful Cleveland Way walking the dogs. It‟s a great place to quench your thirst.

Many thanks to you all for your massive contributions to our charities in the past year, particularly Mountain Rescue and Saltburn Food Bank.

The increase in bookings for celebrations throughout the year has kept the clubhouse buzzing….thank you! Lord Zetland gifted the plot to the people of Saltburn and it is here for your use, enjoyment and for the whole community to make the most of it.

We would like to welcome new members especially those new to the town. We are situated near the sports centre and therefore the first watering hole as you approach Saltburn from the West. Our prestigious CAMRA award makes us unique in the town and well worth a visit to try our real ales.

For January we would like to offer a social membership for just £10 per person. This will take you through to May 1st 2021 and entitles you to discounted drinks at the bar, as well as reduced room hire for a variety of occasions.

Best Wishes for the year ahead from The Committee at Saltburn Cricket, Bowls and Tennis Club.

20

What would you do if you had an extra hour in your day?

Do you ever think “If only I had more time, I‟d read that book, I‟d meditate, I‟d take up yoga, I‟d go for a run, I‟d write a diary”?

Imagine you had the chance to have an extra hour every day. A „bonus hour‟ or „golden hour‟ giving us 25 hours, not 24 in a day.

A couple of years ago a friend recommended a book “Miracle Mornings” by Hal Elrod, which encourages the reader to use an hour every morning for selfdevelopment. To be honest I didn‟t read all of the book, but I loved this concept and spent a couple of months putting it in to practice. This has really helped me maintain and develop a personal meditation practice, which then leads me on to other daily practices.

Just imagine how you would feel and what you could achieve in three months having an extra „golden hour‟ in each day?

So how do you achieve it? Simply put, you can create your „golden hour‟ by getting up an hour earlier than usual. Which brings me on to sleep…. You may be wondering how to invite this hour to become part of your day without it feeling too uncomfortable?

Let‟s start with how much sleep you need and when you get the most out of your sleep. The sleep foundations research reports that most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per day. In my opinion, everybody is different and there are those of us out there who can flourish on less and who need more. We also have different sleep preferences, for example, some people are larks (morning people), while others are owls (night lovers) and a variety of others are in between these patterns. What you are depends on your individual circadian rhythm (your 24-hour internal clock that regulates sleepiness, alertness, and various bodily functions).

Regarding when to go to sleep (external factors permitting), the ideal bedtime falls between 8pm and midnight. The best approach is to match your sleep times to your physiological rhythms in order to achieve the 7-9 hours of sleep that you need regularly. It‟s clear that

there‟s no magical one-size-fits-all schedule that suits everyone but once you know the optimal hours of sleep that work for you, consider altering your bedtime and morning alarm in order to incorporate this „golden hour‟ into your daily pattern.

Once you do that your hour could include: Exercise (stretches? yoga? walk? run?), Reading (perhaps set a target of 10 pages per day?), Silence/Meditation (though not in bed as you may fall back to sleep!), Create (write/journal/draw/music/learn or practise a new skill/ enjoy a hobby or activity), Create a plan for your day? or Focus on completing high priority activities.

Many successful, effective and productive individuals have morning routines that include some or all of these activities so why not give it a go?

I am happy to share with you that starting my day with a „golden hour‟ has given me motivation, gratitude and productivity. As a yoga teacher, it‟s awesome to get up with the sun and transformational to practise yoga and meditation while the sun rises. I embrace my mornings everyday with gratitude for my freedom and the life that I have created.

I implore you to give yourself the gift of an extra hour. It may change your life and if it doesn‟t what did you lose? Go on…. give it a go and see what transformations occur.

With so much love and Namaste, Victoria Sky www.treelivingyoga.com

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KICAS News The KICAS team would like to wish a very happy new year to all the Saltburn beach cleaners and those of you who pick up litter in the woods and around the town. You all make such a difference to our wonderful town.

Our first beach clean of 2020 will be on Saturday, 4th January. We meet at the Victorian Shelter on the lower promenade, next to Marshall‟s beach huts and the mini golf. See our Facebook page for details.

If you can‟t make our beach cleans, be inspired to “be the change that you want to see”. Ask local businesses that you use to ditch single use plastics for more eco friendly alternatives. We are finding fewer small sauce packet tabs on our beach cleans since Seaview swapped these for bottled sauce.

As Individuals we can make a huge difference and together we can KICAS!

The man with the pipe dies The gentle man with the pipe has died - in his sleep after nearly 30 years of being part of the Saltburn scene.

Keith Buchanan Bean, who developed a mental illness in his early 20s, was a well-known fixture in the town‟s cafes.

Sister-in-law Louise Bean said the people of Saltburn „took him to their hearts.‟ She and husband Paul asked Monsignor Ricardo Morgan to take a „celebration of life‟ service at Kirkleatham Crematorium on 4th December because he was a long-standing friend.

“We always knew Keith would be either at Signals, where last year (2018) they invited him for a free bacon butty and coffee on Christmas morning, the Indian restaurant (Milton Street) where he used to partake in an ice cream and coffee and his beloved Rapp‟s, where he ate many a Tunnocks caramel wafer with his coffee,” said Mrs Bean.

The funeral as attended by about 25 people including staff from Home House Group whose house in Pearl Street was home to Keith for many years.

A wreath in his memory was placed on the day of 22

his funeral on the bench outside Sainsbury‟s where he used to sit smoking (or trying to light) his pipe. A few bouquets of flowers were added to the wreath in the following days.

Mgr Morgan said Keith worked for Middlesbrough Council‟s parks department without a day off through illness.

He said mental health had moved from the dark days of Keith‟s mental problems of the 1960s. He had found a new life in Saltburn where people knew him as „the gentle man with the pipe.‟

Saltburn Station Gallery We are proud to announce that the Gallery with the help of our many customers has raised ÂŁ908.75, over the course of 2019. These proceeds will go towards our chosen charity Children with Cancer UK. Alongside this fundraising the gallery has collected ÂŁ78.27 for the Saltburn Christmas lights appeal, with more to be added. We would like to thank all of our customers and friends for their support and we will continue our fundraising efforts in 2020.

or email: simon.robson1@ntlworld.com

23

KR DĂŠcor painter & decorator domestic & commercial fully insured DBS checked

07825 678757 Happy New Year from all at Marske Hall An exciting year lies ahead as Marske Hall is now part of Valorum Care, a new charity with the care and wellbeing of our residents at heart.

We look forward to welcoming you to our events in 2020 to raise funds that help to enrich the lives of our residents. The fundraising team is always looking for tombola and raffle prizes to use at events throughout the year.

Look out for the table top sale in January, check our Facebook page for details of the date and time. Check if stalls are available at 01642 482672.

Kath Bloomfield

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Friday Friends Friday Friends is an inclusive friendship group based in Saltburn, for people aged over 18. We are a friendly group and welcome people with different abilities.

Activities for January 2020 10th January 10-3 - circus workshop 17th January 10-3 - keep fit 24th January 10-3 - makaton workshop 31st January 10-3 - TBC We are a non-profit making group, run by volunteers. We meet on Fridays at Emmanuel Church Hall, McNay Street, Saltburn. Activities are 10-12.30 and arts and crafts 1-4. First session is free to see if you like it then there is a charge of £2.00 per session or £3 all day.

Carers are always free. Registered Charity No 1177967.

For more information 07725 998566 (or email admin@thefridayfriends.co.uk).

Parish Council News

Father Christmas made an early visit to Saltburn on Saturday, 30th November to celebrate the lighting up of the town‟s Christmas Tree. Lukas Ashworth and Violet Dell, who had won a craft poster competition, had the important job of switching on the Tree lights. They then jumped on Santa‟s sleigh and accompanied him to his grotto located at the Station Portico where he met local children. The event was hosted by Zetland FM and was once again a huge success. Thanks are extended to Sainsbury‟s, Saltburn Evangelical Church, the Town Crier, volunteers from Saltburn Fire Brigade, Saltburn 500 Club, Friends of Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and everyone else who gave up their time throughout the year to organise this wonderful community event and ensured everyone was kept safe on the night.

At the recent Parish Council meeting Members were informed that the Tour De Yorkshire would be coming through Redcar & Cleveland in April/May 2020 and there was a strong possibility that Saltburn would be on the route.

It was noted that the proposed camping and caravan site on Saltburn Lane had been rejected by the Borough Council‟s Regulatory Committee; however, the applicant had indicated that they would be appealing this decision.

The 2019 bathing water classifications have been announced and Saltburn has been awarded “excellent” which means that the Local Authority can apply for Blue Flag status for Saltburn Beach.

Allotment Rents can be paid at the allotment shop located on the Hazel Grove site from January 2020 - there has been a small increase of 50p (pro rata) to £27.50 per 1/16th acre plot. There have been a few changes to the allotment rules over the past 12 months so please make sure that you pick up an up to date copy of the rule book when you pay your rent.

The Parish Council office will be closed from 23rd December 2019 to 1st January 2020 inclusive. On behalf of the Chairman and Councillors, best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Tracy Meadows (Clerk and RFO to the Parish Council) 01287 623477 office@smnmpc.co.uk 24

SALTBURN BLUES CLUB

As I write this article it is one week before our Christmas gig which I know is going to be yet another successful evening as the tickets sales are very good. Following on from what I know will be a great night will be our first gig of 2020 which is on Saturday, 25th January at our normal venue of the Cricket Club when we welcome north-east based band Broken Levee supported by John Carroll.

Broken Levee are a stylish and charismatic blues band who stun their audiences with surging and full blooded performances. Their sound echoes the great British and American blues acts but also delivers a unique and rich new take on the genre. They draw influences from an eclectic range of artists from jazz, funk, soul, rock and indeed the blues. In 2017 the band developed a performing and writing partnership with renowned north-east jazz vocalist Lindsay Hannon.

Hailing from Northumberland, Lindsay has an explosive blues voice, which veers from raucous and ballsy, to vulnerable and tender.

The support John Carroll is an excellent blues guitarist and vocalist who always entertains his audience and has them warming to his wit and energy. This gig is sure to get us off to a superb start for 2020. Doors are 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from Milo‟s Cafe Saltburn, The Cricket Club, www.yorkshireticketshop.co and 07960 935263.

The new baby of Saltburn Blues Club, The Balmoral Acoustic Blues Club held in the Conservative Club had its third gig in December with the fantastic Dean James Duo. It was another successful evening in the very festively decorated Balmoral Room. A full house of 40 enjoyed an intimate gig of the very best of acoustic blues. The next gig there will be on Sunday, 9th February with another top class north-east blues act Mike Bowden & The A917 Trio. Tickets for SBC members are £8 and £10 for non members only available by booking directly with me. Look out for and LIKE the FB page for the Balmoral Acoustic Blues Club for details.

Again a gentle reminder about my radio show Still Got The Blues on Zetland 105FM and online on the Zetland FM website every Monday 7-10pm, or catch up later on Mixcloud.

Visit Zetland FM scroll down to the bottom for the link to Mixcloud. Three hours of the very best of the Blues.

Harry

Saltburn Library News I started December‟s entry with „here we are already then‟ and once again „here we are already then‟!

First and foremost, a Happy New Year to everyone and best wishes from us for a superb 2020.

January‟s book stand will be a feature on Jojo Moyes…well Jojo starts with a „J‟ and rhymes with “Ho Ho”…okay, belated and bit woolly but bear with me as it is hard to get jubilant about January. But try we must…

As we struggle to find diary entries, the fact is that „It is New Year‟s Day around the world on 1st January.

DIARY DATES LOOKING AHEAD 29th January 2020 10.30-11.30am Saltburn Library Reading Group. Burnt Shadows by K Shamsie (new joiners always welcome). On 26th February 10.30-11.30am Saltburn Library Reading Group. Discussion book TBC (new joiners always welcome).

26th February 2020 10:30-11:30am Saltburn Library Reading Group.

Kelly Rose

Cleveland Diving Club A famous Albert Einstein saying is, “I have no particular talent; I am merely curious,” and a healthy curiosity is certainly testament to his many achievements. Curiosity is also one of the driving forces for scuba divers whether it‟s unusual finds or learning more about familiar creatures. For example, a photo of a Ballan wrasse seen in early autumn at St. Abbs (photo 1) prompted a research study with some noteworthy results. Amazingly, there are over 500 species of wrasse around the world, ranging in all colours, sizes and shapes. In our local waters however, the largest species of wrasse is the family oriented Ballan which surprisingly begins life as a female, with some fish becoming male after a few years of being a breeding female.

Photo 2 is a very green juvenile Ballan. However, the colour difference between adult male and female Ballan is more undiscerning. Characteristically, wrasses have thick lips that cover a protractile mouth from which powerful jaws and large sharp teeth are extended to crush molluscs, mussels, small crustaceans and small fish.

Another species, the smaller, slender and more graceful Corkwing wrasse, although quite shy, is also quite sociable as photo 3 shows one enjoying the company of a smaller wrasse, the rock cook, that feeds off parasites from its larger cousin‟s scales. However, during their spring breeding season Corkwings become more embolden whilst protecting their nests of eggs, laid by a number of generous females, from predators.

For curious divers, though, the less abundant male Cuckoo wrasse, which is generally found in slightly deeper waters, are a real find as its colouring is truly strikingly exotic, photo 4. And like the Ballan, it begins life as a female being pink with black and white markings. Cuckoo wrasse are also very curious and fiercely territorial and have been known to make direct eye contact with a diver, through their mask, before stalking the diver at close quarters while daring to have the odd nibble. Quirky behaviour aside, Cuckoo wrasse, although edible, are thankfully not popular with fisherman so do not run the risk of being overfished. Which may be one reason why in the wild they can live up to 3 to 30 years, another reason being they are able to bury themselves in the sand when threatened or if in need of a good night‟s sleep.

There are numerous interesting experiences and curious facts that can be learned from enjoying scuba diving.

Curious? Then contact us via Facebook, „The Diving ClubCleveland‟ or on 07960 608529.

June Coomber

Seaview and Greta Cottage caring together 5 star care homes awarded by Redcar and Cleveland for their quality of care and personalised service.

Home from home with daily activities and weekly trips out in our own minibus.

Please feel free to visit us at anytime.

01287 622498 and 01287 625178 26

27

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What Is Silent, Painless And Can Ruin Your Life?

Glaucoma. It‟s an eye condition that nearly half a million people in the UK suffer from. You are most at risk after the age of 40. The good thing is, in many cases, if it‟s seen early enough, this horrible eye condition can be stopped in its tracks. However, most people don‟t have regular eye tests.

Not going to the Dentist is one thing (you can always eat with false teeth) but neglecting the Opticians is another (you can’t see with false eyes!)

My name is John Prouse, I‟m an Optician and I do a home visit eye test service especially for people who struggle to leave their home or you can visit me at my practice. Either way, don‟t risk spoiling your vision and your life.

Call 01287 644211 or visit www.loftusoptical.co.uk for your free over 40 eye test.

28

Leo-James Braves the Shave

’53 Drama Group Presents

Treasure Island

This is my son, Leo-James. He is 8 years old.

At the beginning of August he asked me a question that brought me to tears of happiness. He came to me and he asked me if I would allow him to grow his hair and then shave it all off again for charity. Before I gave him an answer I asked him why he would like to do this as it is such a big thing to do. His reply was “I want to do this in respect of those that have been poorly and either survived or passed from cancer and I would like to help them by raising money.‟‟ So with this I then asked him which charity he would like the proceeds to go to, and his response was for the Macmillan Cancer Support. I of course agreed for him to do this as I myself had braved the shave when I was 23 for breast cancer research and done this in honour of my Gran.

So I was happy for him to do this too for his own choice of charity so long as he was happy with what he had decided and that he understood what he was doing and why he was doing it, which he did and therefore we then went on to set up a just giving page to help with donations ready for the shave day.

On 30th November 2019 it was the day and he did it!

My brave boy went on and braced the shave, with the help and support of Chris Wynn‟s barbers in Saltburn and Chris himself with some encouraging and supportive words and, making sure that Leo-James was comfortable and ready, my selfless and kind hearted son had his hair shaved off.

We went on to doing a little design with an „M‟ on the side to show what he has done for Macmillan and so that he can be proud of what he‟s done and when he looks in the mirror or is asked what it‟s for he can proudly say “I did the Brave The Shave!”

I am so very proud of him for doing this and want him to know that he is so brave for it and he should be proud of himself too. I was so scared to do mine when I was 23 and for him to do this at only 8 is amazing.

I would like to thank everyone for the support that they have shown and to those that have shown support with donations and kind words we are very thankful. We would like to thank Chris Wynn for supporting us with this and helping make it happen.

Kirsty Gregg

Shiver me timbers, shipmates! The nights are drawing in and it‟s time for gathering around the fireside and sharing tales of adventure and daring – and what better stories are there than of seafaring folk and buried treasure! Add in memorable music, special effects and some truly spectacular choreography and you have Saltburn ‟53 Drama Group‟s pantomime – a rip-roaring version of the well-loved Treasure Island story.

Expect to meet all your favourite characters (although perhaps not as you remember them!) and a few extra besides. Who is the mysterious Mary Celeste? And what on earth has happened to old Billy Bones? Dean Heslop, the creator and director of Aladdin and Cinderella, has surpassed his previous pantos with this hilarious show and in partnership with Andrew Pierce and the theatre band has put together a truly musical adventure.

The performances take place in January in Saltburn Community Theatre – Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th and Wednesday 22nd to Saturday 25th. Evening performances begin at 7.30pm (doors and bar 6.45) and there are also matinee performances in addition to the evening shows, at 2pm on Saturday 18th and 25th.

But don‟t wait until January to get those tickets – the Wednesdays are nearly full and other nights are selling fast. Grab your passport to a seafaring adventure at Spar, Milton Street, from the Theatre Box Office, or online at www.saltburnarts.co.uk. See you aboard the Hispaniola!

Sue Pierce See also the full page colour poster on page 11.

Redcar’s Visual Presentations Now that the Festive Season is behind us, if you are looking for somewhere to spend a pleasant Tuesday afternoon for an hour or so, then perhaps a visit to the Redcar East Community Centre on Durham Road, is the place for you! Redcar‟s Visual Presentations continues its season on 14th January 2020 at 2.15pm when we will be welcoming a new Presenter to our Group, Geoff Taylor, and he will be illustrating for us, the many changes in the life of the „River Tees from the Ice Age to the Present Day‟.

A fortnight later on January 28th at the same time and venue, we welcome back Chris Nettleton, a name familiar to those who come to see our Rail Presentations.

He will take us back many years to the time of an Historic Steam Engine‟s Record Run and then bring us more up to date showing us how trains were designed for the ultimate in speed. His Presentation is called „Mallard‟s Record Run and Streamlined Trains‟.

Admission is £2.50 and visitors are very welcome.

Alternatively Half Season Membership is £12.50.

Tony Crow 29

Stevie D’s successful fundraising night A much-loved local musician is flying high after raising thousands of pounds for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).

Stephen Dowd, best known by his stage name „Stevie D‟, has dedicated his life to supporting good causes since his retirement and successful battle with colon cancer.

However, the 77-year-old has announced that after ten years of fundraising, his most recent charity event will be his last.

Steve, who has lived in Saltburn for many years, but came originally from Liverpool, is a regular sight across the North East and recently raised £3,165 after hosting a charity night in aid of GNAAS. The evening, which was held at Saltburn‟s Spa Hotel on 9th November last year, described as an evening of music and laughter, featured local talented acts including the Saltburn U3A Ukulele Band, „Circus Stars on Tour‟ Marko and Tommy Bungle, and singer Maggie Gee. He said: “The original goal was £500 but we exceeded that massively and raised more than £3,000 which I‟m delighted about.

“I feel very strongly as a cancer survivor to live my life and enjoy it, so that‟s why I perform. I get the most joy out of singing and it‟s great to see the crowd getting involved.

“I also wanted to help other lives and give back, so that‟s why I‟ve been supporting GNAAS. “I want to say thank you to all the businesses and supporters who have either donated or supported the charity night.”

Stevie D was invited to the GNAAS base at Teesside International Airport where he performed his rendition of Shotgun by George Ezra.

He also met some of the critical care team and was given a tour of their helicopter.

He said: “It‟s been a real pleasure fundraising for GNAAS. This charity has saved so many lives and the team are amazing at what they do. I am very impressed by the whole operation.”

30

Linda Hodgson BSc (Hons) McPod / SRch HCPC Registered

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For all enquiries Contact Carol 07817 506 784 or 01287 651896.

Happy New Year to all our Customers, Old and New. Thank you so much for your support over the years!

Why not come in and check us out?

Lots of special offers on lots of items and our general Household Cleaning Supplies.

We are worth a visit: Cheaper Prices on your Doorstep!

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

Saltburn Cards and Calendars on sale now!

Open 9.00am till 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday 31

Talk of the Town’s monthly Pride of Saltburn Award

The winner of this month‟s bouquet of flowers is Nicky Francis and the rest of her young family, Stan, Angus and Eva. They were nominated by Jan Snaith of Brotton. About them, she says, “I‟d like to nominate Nicky Francis and her young family Stan, Angus and Eva, for the Pride of Saltburn Award. They are an avid litter collection family. I have regularly seen Nicky collecting litter on the local playground and football pitch at Brotton, whilst walking her dog. I often wondered why the field and hedge backs always appeared to be litter free, as there are several weekly events there, as well as many dog walkers.

“I regularly drive up and down to Saltburn from Brotton and have seen her family often clearing litter on the road down to the Ship Inn. She appears to have taken responsibility for keeping this particular area clean. I passed them recently and took a photo of them with their many bags of rubbish. This is a daily project for Nicky who has a passion for keeping litter away from the environment she lives in. This road from Saltburn has a serious litter problem from passengers in cars throwing out their empty drink bottles and food containers as they leave from their day at the beach. After stopping and speaking to Nicky and thanking her for her hard work, I passed several individuals, couples, families walking to and from Saltburn.

If only a handful of those making this journey on foot carried a bag and picked up some of the litter as they walked down, who knows, the ones responsible for contributing to the mess may just get the message that it‟s not acceptable. I know there are many people doing litter picks in the area, but this young woman seems to be on a „one woman family mission to make the walk to and from Brotton a litter free zone. I have spoken to others in Brotton who have seen Nicky out on her litter picking, so on behalf of all those from Brotton who use the road to Saltburn, Thank you Nicky, Stan, Angus and Eva, for making the Saltburn Road a more pleasant walk home!”

32

Clare Balding at Saltburn Library

Last Autumn, Saltburn Library had the pleasure of hosting a session with broadcaster, journalist and author Clare Balding.

Ms Balding has written two adult books, the autobiography „My Animals and Other Family‟ (2012) and „Walking Home‟ (2014). She has also written four children‟s books; „The Racehorse that wouldn‟t Gallop‟ (2016), „The Racehorse that Disappeared‟ (2017) and „The Racehorse Who Learned to Dance‟ (2019 ) all centred around a ten year old girl, Charlie Bass (loosely based on her niece, Flora) and Charlie‟s friends and family and horse, Noble Warrior. The fourth book is a 2018 publication for World Book day, „The Girl Who Thought She was a Dog‟ (2018).

Raised amongst dogs and ponies, when very young Ms Balding actually believed herself to be a dog, and she could ride before she could walk. Her autobiography, and „The Girl Who Thought She was a Dog‟ drew upon these experiences.

Her family have been involved with horse training for some time. Her father, brother, and uncle have all been top racehorse trainers. As a child at Park House Stables, Kingsclere, she would occasionally come across the Queen having breakfast in the kitchen with her father, who trained horses for both the Queen and The Queen Mother. Between 1988 and 1993, Ms Balding was both a leading amateur flat out jockey and, in 1990, Champion Lady Rider.

After graduating, her broadcasting career began with the BBC National radio in 1994. Her presenting highlights include six Olympic games, five Paralympic games, Channel Four racing, Crufts, and Sunday Grandstand. Her radio work includes the BBC Radio 4‟s „Ramblings‟. She has won several awards and was granted the OBE in 2013 for services to broadcasting and journalism; this is the same year in which she was awarded the special BAFTA for work on the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

In journalism, she has written columns for many publications including The Racing Post and The Evening Standard.

She has visited this area twice previously: visiting racehorse trainer, Lingdale‟s Mary Revely, training horses on Saltburn Beach; and winning with „Knock Knock‟ at Redcar Races in 1990.

Saltburn Librarian Di Lonsdale (a friend of Ms Balding), who organised the event said, “The evening has been a great success with all age groups, and the library has received excellent feedback.”

“I am a great supporter of libraries,” concluded Ms Balding. “Especially a library like Saltburn, which is at the heart of the community.”

33

Health, Happiness and Connection I‟m back. I‟ve been away backpacking again, at 50.

Staying in hostels, dormitories, by far the oldest person.

Back to a place where I travelled for 14 months when I was 17. I was sure I would be back in a couple of years, 33 years have somehow gone by!

About 2 months ago a mate from our gang of friends I had at university died in Singapore where he had gone to live with his wife and two kids. A few days ago a guy I used to hang out with when I lived near Hebden Bridge suddenly died in the night. His heart stopped ticking, out of the blue, with no warning. He was in his 40s. A few months ago my friend from Saltburn died.

About 3 months was the gap between diagnosis and not being here. She too was in her 40s.

Nothing is a given in life: each heart beat, each breath, each morning we wake and gaze on the fields or the sea, the clouds blending and the light changing, the low sun, frost, every day could be the last.

For many years now I‟ve tried to live with that awareness. I‟ve tried to fill my life with peace and joy and ease and mostly I‟ve created a life filled with those dreams. I try regularly to push myself out of my comfort zone, to challenge myself, to change and grow and to experience new things in the search for more life and enriched feelings.

Alone I‟ve watching the sun rise at Machu Pichu and heard the insects waking in an ashram after hours of meditation in the heart of India. I‟ve made love on a beach beneath palm trees and sung songs around a thousand camp fires. I‟ve lived in a cabin without electricity miles from anywhere in New Zealand and hitch-hiked from England to the southern tip of Italy at 16. I‟ve travelled alone almost always.

And yet on this journey perhaps for the first time I really felt something that I had not strongly felt before.

Something that I stress is the key experience for people I work with, people with drug issues or health issues or confidence issues. The central key I see is connection, connection to self, to nature and to others. Connection, or

lack of it, I see is why some people become addicts and others who try the same drug don‟t. Connection is why some people feel a richness to their living experience when others don‟t. Connection to self is the outcome of daily meditation, or conscious time spent with ourselves without distractions.

Wherever I am, meditation supports me. It helps retains a link to my self-awareness, yet on this trip, more than any other before, I felt that desire for more connection.

This was the trip that I had dreamed of one day doing.

People I know have died. It‟s been the nudge that help me over the line to book the ticket and to get my motivation focused on another long travel back to South America, Brazil and across Uruguay to wonderful Argentina.

And so there I was, in paradise, sunshine and a warm breeze, big azure waves curving and dropping into a happy foaming sea, beautiful people in all shades of coffee skin and a wonderful ambience of friendship and camaraderie and ease, as is the Brazilian way. Yet something felt off, I was in paradise but that day I didn‟t feel so good; I felt shallow. I speak Spanish but I found it really hard to communicate in Portuguese. I missed connection, I missed talking and really understanding someone‟s life and how they feel. I missed physical contact and holding the gaze of an eye. I missed being known and seen for who I am.

Perhaps that day I learnt for the first time in my life my desire to not just do it alone anymore. A desire to be seen and felt and to emotionally feel others. I suddenly realised this is what is now important to me, to be part of something with others, to care and to be cared for, to feel real connection and the richness and the fulfilment and the sense of living with more depth of feeling that I now realise is so intrinsic in connection and so linked to our happiness.

The End of the Line?

There were mixed emotions on the evening of Saturday, 14th December, when what may well be the last train to Redcar British Steel arrived from Saltburn after forty-one years of service. On a packed platform, historians, railway enthusiasts and Teessiders with a personal connection to the area‟s steel heritage gathered from across Europe to celebrate the end of the line for the station, where they fought off the cold with coffee, mince pies, shared memories and a cask of beer brewed especially for the occasion.

At 18.17hrs the last train back to Saltburn pulled away to the sound of The Last Post, leaving the future of the station - like that of Teesside itself - uncertain. Although, officially, still open, no further trains will stop there for the foreseeable future. Should Redcar British Steel ever take passengers again, few would argue that it is vital that it retains its name as a lasting tribute to the men and women who helped build our region.

Mark Lawton 34

Kendal Aitken Mental Health and Happiness Training.

Individuals and groups.

Contact: kendalaitken@hotmail.com or 07944 883961

Happy New Year from the Conservative Club Welcome to the monthly article from Saltburn Conservative Club and I would like to wish all readers and followers of this page a very Happy New Year.

As I write it is blowing a gale and raining outside and it‟s almost dark at 3.30pm. Winter is closing in fast. As all articles for this month‟s magazine need to be in early owing to the printers‟ holidays over the Christmas & New Year period I will not be able to give a report on events held in the second half of December. I can, however, report that on Sunday, 8th December the Saltburn Acoustic Blues Club event, featuring Dean James & The Blackdogs, was a big success, with everybody praising the evening event which took place in front of a full house in the Balmoral Room. It was also very much enjoyed by the artistes who were very impressed with the room, the atmosphere and the support they received on a special night arranged by club member Harry Simpson, to whom we pass on our appreciations. Harry has more gigs arranged for 2020 so keep an eye out for the poster around town and on their Facebook page plus the club Facebook page which is updated on a weekly basis giving all the information you require regarding club matters and events. Also, may I give you another reminder that Harry hosts a weekly event every Monday on Zetland FM from 7pm to 10pm entitled „Still got the Blues‟ which is well worth tuning in for.

During the Christmas Quiz, Bingo & Christmas Buffet Night on Wednesday, 18th December we will be handing over a cheque to Peter Nixon & Trevor Welburn for £620, plus a collection tin on the bar, for monies raised in the club for the Saltburn Christmas Lights Appeal. We would like to thank all members who have contributed towards this very worthy cause.

The cheque presentation will take place at 7.45pm.

We have had a lot of members nominating their children or grandchildren to receive a free gift from Father Christmas in his Grotto. This is an expenditure that the club are very pleased to support as one way of saying „Thank You‟ for the backing we have received from the members over the past year. This event will have taken place on Saturday, 14th December from 2pm to 4pm. The club Christmas Party will also have taken place on the same night which will also have had an interlude to make the club Christmas Draw at 8pm. Please note that on New Year‟s Eve we will be opening the Balmoral Room upstairs for members who may like a quieter night or just a break from the music & dancing downstairs. The bar will also be open.

During January the Backgammon Club are having a break and will return on Thursday, 6th February and on the first Thursday of every month throughout the rest of the year. We have already received several bookings for functions in 2020 and we look forward to another successful year.

My special praise goes to our Chairman, Joe Cockfield, who puts in many free hours a week and also does the work of the Treasurer. I would also like to thank Michelle Gilley, our fantastic stewardess, who carries out so many tasks above her remit to ensure the club events, catering and staffing are organised and covered. Michelle and the bar-staff are the face of the club when people first walk in and they always do their work very efficiently and professionally and always with a smile and a laugh. For this I am so very grateful and say a big „Thank You‟. The success of the club is down to the fact that Officers, Committee, Michelle & the Bar-Staff and the members all work as a team who all pull in the same direction making light of the extra work put upon us all.

Regular events in the club are the Beer Draw and Cash Rollover which, as I write, stands at £500 and increases by £25 each week if not won. This draw is held at 6pm every Sunday but please note that only members can win the Rollover Prize.

Every Tuesday we hold the club weekly draw with prizes of £15

meat voucher, wines and chocolates. This draw takes place at 10pm. The first Tuesday of every month (7th January) is the SLUG meeting (Saltburn Line Users Group) for rail enthusiasts from 7pm and on the first Thursday of every month, starting February, we hold the Backgammon club from 7pm to 9pm. Both of these events take place upstairs in the Balmoral Room.

As we have started a new year I would like to thank all the committee who have contributed in the successful running of the club in the past year. Big decisions have to be discussed and decided upon and the decision of the committee is crucial in mapping out the developments, improvements and upgrading we have made. Also, I thank Nash Fraser for putting up the Christmas tree and lighting in the garden and Shaun Cook who has organised the Children‟s Disco after they receive their presents plus the music for the Christmas Party & New Year.

Once again I have to thank Michelle, accompanied by member Glenn Stoddart, who have spent many hours putting up the Christmas decorations in the club. They are absolutely amazing and everybody who comes in comments how good they are. Michelle also took up the challenge to purchase the many presents we had to buy for the children and grandchildren as gifts from Santa plus she also volunteered to gift wrap them all. This took up many, many hours but she was only too pleased to offer her assistance and the result will mean everybody attending this event will have a magical experience.

Please remember that Subscriptions are now due and must be paid before the end of January. We now have a waiting list for people wishing to join the club when membership re-opens in March and if you have not paid for 2020 by this time you will be replaced by people from the waiting list. Do not let your membership lapse. You can pay your subscription of £12 to any members of the Bar-Staff. Please also note that it does not matter what month you joined the club as all members have to renew their membership again for 2020 in January and every January thereafter.

We are looking for assistance with strange happenings in the club during the last year. On two occasions members have called in the club using a walking stick and have left without their walking stick, presumably cured of any problems they had by partaking of the fantastic Real Ale we offer. The club is a magical place to be but it would now appear that the atmosphere is so amazing that it has healing properties. On that note all I can say is Good Health.

At the end of every year the committee presents Life Membership to members who have been members and supported the club over many years. I am very pleased to say that this year the recipients of this award are two of my good friends, namely Shirley & John Ridsdale (known to us as Rid). I would like to thank them for the support they have given the club and I hope they enjoy using the club for many years to come.

If Santa called at your house on Christmas Eve and was feeling a little hungry I hope you remembered that he likes his Pizza deep pan crisp and even! (The jokes in the Christmas Crackers get worse every year!)

Happy New Year. Look forward to getting in touch again in February. Stay warm, check on your neighbours and be safe.

Best wishes, David.

David Rigg, Club President Email: davidrigg21@yahoo.co.uk Article financially supported by Saltburn Conservative Club PS: In respect of David‟s illuminating and informative monthly articles in Talk of the Town and his generous comments relating to the Committee and Staff, I would like to thank him for the outstanding input he makes on behalf of the Club in his capacity as President.

Joe Cockfield, Chairman

35

Used Stamps for Charity

There is a box in Saltburn Library for used postage stamps which are a valuable source of income to a number of charities. Please drop your stamps in the library. Many thanks for your support. There is also a box in Marske Library.

Eric Matson (volunteer), 25 High Street, Skelton, Tel: 07985 767587

NEW DAYTIME CLASS !!

A PILATES, YOGA & BALLET inspired fitness class: Works on OVERALL TONING, CORE STRENGTH, BALANCE and FLEXIBILITY. Wednesdays 7pm: starts 08/01 - EarthBeat Centre NEW CLASS!! FRIDAYS 9.30AM: starts 10/01 - EarthBeat Centre

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SOSA will get you TONED UP, FIT & give you GREAT BODY CONFIDENCE! This fun and feel good class is for ALL AGES and ABILITIES...

Mondays 7pm: starts 06/01 - Emmanuel Church Hall

Packed with Latin rhythms and International beats…

This FUN and EASY TO FOLLOW class is TONING and a great OVERALL WORKOUT! Mondays 6pm: starts 06/01- Emmanuel Church Hall Thursdays 10am: starts 09/01- Saltburn Community Hall

Holly Blue

For more info… Call ESTELLE on 07887 525234 or visit...

We have a large range of Quality Greetings Cards, Wrap, Bags, Balloons, Books, Stationery, Jigsaws, Orchard Toys, Calendars, Diaries & much more.

Book Ordering Service, Quarterly Prize Draw & Loyalty Card System 45 Milton Street (Opposite Sainsbury’s Car Park)

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Tel: 01287 624283 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 36

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.

Hello readers. It seems that January is the month for us cats! We are Nelly, Jack and Tilly. Nelly is six years old and Jack is around four years old, they come as a pair, one of them is black and the other is a tabby-torty, so they are very easy to tell apart. They are both delightful cats that love fusses and strokes. They get on really well, although Nelly is definitely in charge and she mothers Jack a lot.

We are always catching her giving him a groom. Nelly is a fuss pot and Jack is a calm, chilled and a gentle boy who takes everything in his stride. We are looking for a home where they can be the only pets and get all the love and

attention they deserve. Nelly and Jack would need access to the outdoors.

Tilly is a three year old who came to us as a handover. Tilly is a super affectionate cat and loves to sit on your lap for as long as she can. As Tilly wasn‟t getting on with the other cat in her previous home we feel she would be best suited as an only pet. We know that she will make a wonderful companion animal or fit in well as a family pet. We hope that she will find her forever home very soon as Tilly is another cat in our care that doesn‟t cope so well in a cattery environment

SARA fundraising events during January Please note our monthly meetings for SARA supporters and the public are now held in the Cleveland Bay, Ings Road, Redcar on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm. Bar open, there‟s a friendly atmosphere, and everyone‟s welcome, so please join us on Tuesday, 7th January for a pleasant evening and hear all our recent news.

Future SARA fundraising events NEW YEAR’S DAY DIP FOR SARA: Start 2020 with a splash! Join the brave souls who gird their loins, take a deep breath and launch themselves into the North Sea. Of course you could just dip your toes in. Fancy dress is optional but fun.

Sponsor forms are available from Foxrush Farm on Kirkleatham Lane in Redcar, at the shop in Guisborough or on-line (at www.s-a-r-a.org.uk).

You could of course be one of the many supporting spectators who visit Saltburn-by-the-Sea on New Year‟s Day morning to celebrate the first of this local animal charity‟s events. 2020 is a landmark for SARA as it is the charity‟s 25th Anniversary. There will be goodies handed out in celebration on the pier 10:30 – 12:00.

Please join us on 1st January for a fun start to 2020 and be wished A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! Joy and Mandy Volunteers at SARA 37

Carols at Foxrush Christmas festivities galore made for a memorable afternoon in December, raising SARA funds for 2020.

The Arundel Barn was decked as never before, adding to the festive mood. Christmas stalls galore tempted visitors with an array of delights for the season.

Mulled wine, mince pies and goodies helped raise the atmosphere whilst the wonderful singers – Local Vocals – from Whale Hill entertained the crowds with a medley of festive songs.

We would like to thank all who played a part in making this event such a success, and also to wish everyone a Happy New Year from us all at SARA. Joy and Mandy Volunteers at SARA

38

“Did you open all your Christmas presents?”

I suspect there won’t be many Christmas presents that have not been opened by the time you read this. Maybe there are a few still waiting for those who have been working away over Christmas and New Year.

But there is one present that comes every Christmas that often doesn’t get opened. Some people don’t even know there is a present for them, whilst others choose to ignore it completely. A few might tentatively peel back a bit of the wrapping, whilst others might give it a big shake. Both might declare they know what the present is, but choose not to open it!

Of course this present is not something you can unwrap in a conventional sense, but like any present it still needs to be opened and received. And, although this present is perhaps most often associated with Christmas, it is given to people every day of the year.

You may have opened some really lovely, thoughtful and special presents this Christmas, but the present I am thinking about is the most wonderful of all. It’s a present that is the most beautiful expression of love, kindness and generosity you could imagine.

You may have opened a number of surprising presents, things you never even dreamed about, let alone put on a list or hinted about to family and friends.

And the present I am pondering is so outrageously surprising, that some folk who received it even needed dreams to convince them that what was being given was true.

But I suspect that the best presents you opened were those that pointed beyond the presents themselves and to the people who gave you the gifts. The present was a way for someone to say, “I love you.” And the best present was, therefore, the presence of the person; or the giver of the gift.

So, what is this unopened present I am writing about?

This present is…

Love, Life, Truth, Hope, Forgiveness, Mercy, Justice, Peace, Faith, Goodness, Wisdom, Patience, Gracious, Healing, Powerful, Majestic, Glorious, Light, Holy, Acceptance, Family…

This present is…

JESUS CHRIST He is the gift of God the Father to the people of the world. ‘The gift of Christ is not like an Amazon gift card. It is not an impersonal present to be spent on your own wish list! It is a personal union. The Lord of all comes into your life and you, in turn come into His. With this ultimate Christmas gift, you are not given a thing, you are given a person. And through Him—through Jesus—you are invited into a family of love. For ever. Will you embrace this gift or leave it unopened?’ (The Gift, pp.50, Glen Scrivener) It’s never too late to open the best and most surprising Christmas present of all.

Services Times Sundays 9.00am traditional communion 10.45am contemporary worship

Tuesdays 9.30am said communion

Morning Prayer 9.00am Mon-Fri in ECHO Morning Prayer is open to everyone. It is an informal and friendly gathering.

We read from the Bible, share any thoughts that arise and offer to God our prayers for Saltburn and the wider world.

It is a precious time of peace at the start of the day.

Please come along and find out for yourself.

Contact Details tel 01287 622251

email emmanuelsaltburn@hotmail.co.uk

web www.emmanuelsaltburn.co.uk

REV ADAM REED (FREE copies of The Gift are available from Emmanuel Church Shop on Milton Street and from the Church Office in ECHO) 39

New Saltburn Therapist Hello, my name is Susan Widdup. I have recently moved from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire to work and live near the sea in the beautiful town of Saltburn.

I am all about quality of life for myself and others.

I am an experienced, mature holistic therapist & Reiki Master and a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists FHT. I am ITEC and VTCT qualified and I offer a variety of therapies from a tranquil home treatment room in the centre of Saltburn.

My therapies, often combined in one session to promote a deep sense of relaxation, are designed to provide relief from the stresses of everyday living.

I am particularly interested in the holistic approach to health and well-being, the connection between the mind and the body and how the state of one affects the other. My therapies work on many levels to restore the balance in mind, body and soul.

The treatments I offer include Swedish Massage - Deep Tissue, Japanese Reiki Healing, Angelic Reiki Healing, Full Body Massage, Back, Shoulder & Neck Facial and Scalp Massage, Indian Head Hot Stone Massage, Foot Massage including Reflexology, Hopi Ear Candle Therapy, Pregnancy Massage, Mindfulness, Meditation, Relaxation Techniques.

My treatments are suitable for a wide variety of people of any age for relaxation or therapeutic purposes and to help relieve stress, anxiety, sleep disorders and many other ailments.

Holistic medicine aims to treat a person as a whole, rather than just the symptoms or a particular disorder. It takes account of the individual‟s lifestyle, their emotions, levels of stress, mental attitude, diet and past and present experiences and relationships.

The treatments can benefit those with chronic conditions and can also work alongside conventional medicine to help alleviate symptoms of ill health and promote a feeling of well being.

With the New Year here, why not buy yourself or a loved one a gift voucher which can be used anytime within 3 months? Or why not make a New Year resolution to treat yourself to some lifechanging relaxing therapy to help make a New You? I have a Facebook Page Saltburn Massage or you can contact me direct. email: sueyorkshire@gmail.com Phone: 07917 - 805959 40

Come and see our great range of books!

Fiction, Non-fiction Bargain Books, Children’s Books Opening Times: 10am – 5pm (Closed Sundays and Wednesdays) 24 Milton Street, Saltburn, TS12 1DG

Gift Vouchers now available 01287 348010 www.bookcornershop.co.uk

Cat Cafe Circles of life CIC learning disability service has opened a cat cafe at 21 Queen Street, Redcar TS10 1AB. We are open 10am until 3pm week days and the first Saturday of the month.

Tel for information or booking 07760 343394 or find us on Facebook for more details.

Sorry under 12s are not allowed in the cafe.

Saltburn Primary School introduces the Heartstone Odyssey Project “It‟s been spectacular!” says ten year old Lewis, when I ask him how he has found the week-long Heartstone project; this was led in November by Year 5 teachers, Mrs Hambley and Mr Kirby.

He continues: “It‟s shown that you should be glad to be different and to be happy about what you have. It would be boring if the world was full of the same people.”

Children in ten Redcar and Cleveland schools have worked on the project recently. It has been funded by Beyond Housing, through the Travis Perkins Social Fund.

Saltburn Primary School teachers attended a meeting to learn all about it and then held a meeting for Year 5 parents to explain its aim and how the challenging material would be introduced in class.

The project‟s aim is to raise awareness of the hate crime children may encounter in their lives, as well as building community cohesion and integration. It‟s based on the book „The Heartstone Odyssey‟, written by Arvan Kumar in 1985. In this, Chandra follows a quest to overcome intolerance, prejudice and racism, alongside her allies – the mice – as they look to find the pieces of the Heartstone. It‟s set a hundred years ago.

The idea is that children read the story together and come to their own conclusions about the behaviour of the characters, in discussion with their classmates. Then they produce art and written work centred on the values and conclusions of their discussions.

The Saltburn Primary teachers decided to adapt the programme to suit the needs of the Year 5 children. Mrs Hambley says: “Although the book is promoted as appropriate for nine years olds, we felt that some of the content was more suitable for older children and chose to use extracts for discussion rather than the whole story.

This worked very well.”

In the first session, the classes considered the name „Chandra‟ and put forward ideas about what it suggested to them. The children came up with a variety of words.

Dan T thought she came from China, while Hannah B felt reminded of a soldier or warrior. John thought she could come from a magical place and Dylan suggested that Chandra had a pet bear.

The teachers made a mind map of the children‟s ideas and then introduced the first of the extracts for discussion. A policeman was discouraging Chandra from walking into a park in the dark and she was questioning whether the reason was that she was female and an Asian.

An interesting conversation developed about why a policeman might be found outside a park and the children learned something about policing a century ago! But the main focus of the lesson was that children were asked to consider the characteristics of this situation and sort them into columns headed Plus, Minus and Interesting. They worked in groups, collecting everyone‟s thoughts.

In the next session, a further extract was presented.

Chandra came across a graffitied picture of herself: „It showed Chandra dancing, only here she had been made ugly and imbalanced, twisted, bloated and coarse, almost, but just not quite beyond recognition so as to preserve the intended hurt it would carry…..‟

The children considered whether this involved racism or bullying or even worse, both. They each wrote a paragraph about how the description made them feel.

Penelope wrote: „It is wrong to exclude anyone like that. I feel annoyed and ashamed of whoever drew it. I am appalled and angry‟, while Hannah C put: „How would they feel if she did it to them?‟ Elodie added: „This is dreadful, upsetting, awful and offensive. Let‟s work together, be a team of happiness.‟ Caleb S wrote: „It‟s just cruel, because everyone is different.‟ Mrs Hambley told the class that she is different, because she is one-eighth Irish. This led to others proudly telling us about their Welsh and Scottish ancestry and some children had parents and grandparents from further afield.

To end the project, the children created scratch art.

The children produced pictures full of love and acceptance and these were pegged up on a washing line in the classroom for everyone to appreciate. Mrs Hambley explains: “We chose the form of scratch art, because it indicates that it doesn‟t matter what‟s on top. We‟ve been revealing the colours underneath the surface to celebrate difference and we‟ve celebrated togetherness and respect.”

Megan confirms: “I liked the artwork. It was fun.”

Both teachers are pleased with how the project has gone. Mr Kirby says: „It has sparked some necessary conversations. We‟ve discussed forms of discrimination and asked why people have to justify their gender or ethnicity. The children have confirmed it doesn‟t matter and that they know that lack of tolerance and discrimination are bad.‟‟ Mr Eyre, Executive Headteacher, has been very supportive of the work. He says: “I can really see the benefits of incorporating the use of the Heartstone Odyssey within literacy in school and covering topics such as racism and hate crime. I think this work will build greater communication and understanding across different nationalities, cultures and backgrounds, to recognise the common human experience and see past stereotypes and prejudice.”

Looking forward, Larissa wrote: „I hope at the end of the story, everyone makes friends. It‟s not nice to make fun of a person that‟s different.‟ Rosemary Nicholls 41

One Old Fossil Describes Another

by Alan Butler

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A couple of months ago I wrote an article about a particular fossil that is to be found in great numbers on the beach between Saltburn and South Gare. It is locally known as a Devil‟s Toenail but it‟s proper name is Gryphaea. Because of events that have happened in the meantime I thought I would continue the conversation this month but on this occasion featuring one of our most attractive fossils, the Ammonite. Ammonites are not uncommon around the shores of our islands but it never occurred to me what numbers of them chose to make their homes in our area.

For anyone who is unfamiliar with this long lost sea dweller of the past, ammonites, though long since extinct were related to the modern nautilus. They were spiral in shape and in their fossil form they have ridges crossing the spirals. There is a rich vein of folklore attached to ammonites. Doubtless our ancestors found them on the beach and were puzzled as to what they might have been.

The answer they came up with in our area was that ammonites were the bodies of snakes that had been cast from the land by the blessed St Hilda, sister of an Anglo Saxon King and the woman who was responsible for the building of the first Whitby Abbey in the 7th century.

In the past Kate and I have found fragments of ammonites on our daily beach rambles but it was while we were analysing the large beds of Devil‟s Toenails on Redcar beach that the significance of the ammonites really came to light. I was at some distance from Kate when she called me over, having discovered a very large spiral in the rocks close to the Coastguard Station in Redcar. We brushed away the sand and there was no doubt about it – this was the spectral image of an ammonite but one with proportions that I had never seen before except on documentaries that featured these most surprising creatures.

The one Kate found, which we christened „Hannah Might‟ was at least a metre across. Although not massive by the standards of ammonites it is a sizeable specimen all the same. The largest examples are to be found in South Africa, where one of two metres was discovered. Hannah is certainly big by British standards and yet we could find no record of this fact being described in literature – particularly since it turned out that Hannah was far from being an isolated example.

This chance find set Kate in particular off on a frantic search that has lasted for the last two months and during that time we have discovered literally dozens of spectral ammonite fossils in the rock strata at Redcar, some of which are very much bigger than our friend Hannah.

If you decide to look for yourself (and it makes for an entertaining beach walk) you will need to get your eye in. The stone at Redcar is a kind of mudstone, so once fossils are exposed by the sea they don‟t last long and their upper surfaces in particular are gradually scoured away. On many occasions it takes some careful analysis before one can say for certain that a giant ammonite is right in front of you.

This is the most satisfying of pastimes but it needs to be done at times when the sand is low and of course when the tide is out. I would love to know the diameter of the largest example anyone spots and we can let the relevant agencies know about these giants of the past.

The Saltburn Profile by Rosemary Nicholls Jean Devasagyam “I made a conscious decision to stay in Saltburn, when I was widowed, despite my family all living at a distance,” says resident Jean Devasagyam. “It‟s a beautiful place to live and I have firm friends here.”

Jean comes from Birmingham. She decided to train as a State Registered Nurse there and was recommended to take a temporary job in Harrod‟s because it would get her used to being on her feet all day and not being very highly paid! After two years studying nursing, she sadly had to withdraw for health reasons and took a temporary office job.

She married Hari, a Sri Lankan civil engineer in 1967 and became a full-time parent when her daughter Roslyn, was born in 1969. Two years later, Hari got a contract to do work for Redpath, Dorman Long at the new BOS plant in Grangetown and the family moved to Saltburn. “I was initially attracted by its good transport links and everything in the town being within walking distance,” she explains.

Jean made an arrangement with Mrs St Vaughan of Northrifts Playgroup to accompany Roslyn to the sessions and three months later, she was offered a post. Their son, Peter, was born in 1972 and Jean worked at Northrifts until both children were at school. “I‟ve always enjoyed children and the involvement provided us with social networks,” she says.

Jean also joined the WRVS and volunteered to do Meals on Wheels twice a month. Through contacts made there, she became a member of the Saltburn Babysitting Group. A lot of young professionals came to work on Teesside in the 1970s and they didn‟t have relatives to babysit for them.

Jean stopped volunteering for the WRVS in 1979, when she went back to full-time work in Local Government.

She began as a typist at Langbaurgh Borough Council and moved into secretarial, then administrative and information posts. “Throughout this time, I was involved with the PTA at Saltburn Infants‟ and Junior Schools and I inherited the role of Blood Donor Organiser locally. I had a shoebox of records which I used to send letters about upcoming sessions to donors and I continued until the system was computerised.”

Over the years, Jean supported many of the initiatives started by Saltburn community stalwart, Jackie Taylor. These included Keep Britain Tidy and Britain in Bloom and she remains a member of the 500 Club. “I baked cakes and planted plants; I enjoy being part of the community,” she says.

Unfortunately, Hari‟s health began to deteriorate in 1979-80 and Jean felt the need to grow her own career. After Local Government reorganisation, she took up the post of Information Officer for Redcar and Cleveland Mind, promoting good mental health. She did this until her retirement in 2007.

Jean was a long-standing member of the Soroptimists (SIGBI Cleveland) and held the positions of Secretary and President. She describes it as a sister organisation to Rotary, which in the past was only open to men. She was invited to join when she reached management level in Local Government and found her roles very fulfilling.

Jean has always been interested in handicrafts, such as embroidery and in drawing and painting. She now attends a U3A sewing group to dedicate time to the hobby. Her paintings focus on the natural world and she takes her camera out often to reference photographs of birds and scenes for later use.

She does digital photography with U3A and is a member of Saltburn Photographic Society. She recently

successfully completed a ten week Open University/Royal Photographic Society course.

Jean has found Saltburn U3A very helpful in adjusting to life as a single person.. She attends classes studying rocks and fossils, bird watching and goes out with the theatre group.

She volunteers too with Cleveland Bat Group as their Data Analysis Officer, surveying and recording bats‟ calls. She analyses the recorded sonograms to identify the bat species.

She loves reading, including light fiction books and her more demanding current choice, „Why does E=mc 2?‟ about Einstein‟s Theory of Relativity. She also has a passion for music and has always sung, since her days in her Junior School Choir. In her youth, she sang in the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Choir. Now in Saltburn, she sings a variety of music with the New Day Singers, who put on local concerts to raise money for good causes.

“I‟ve always sung folk music too, sometimes at Saltburn and regularly at the Cutty Wren Folk Club. I‟m a keen supporter of our Saltburn Folk Festival and enjoy helping as a backroom girl. I‟m very grateful to friends who kindly give me lifts to venues as my neck problem means I cannot drive.”

Jean loves travelling. She says: “Given a lottery win, I‟d buy a round the world ticket!” She has visited Hari‟s relatives in Sri Lanka and the United States many times. She sticks to container gardening, so that she isn‟t tied down when she wants to go away to visit relatives and have holidays.

Both Jean‟s children have done extremely well in their careers and she is very proud of them and their spouses.

She also has two lovely grandsons. “They keep me looking forward,” she says.

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Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society Who was the Red Baron?

Manfred Albrecht von Richthofen (2 May 1892-21 April 1918), also known as the „Red Baron‟, was a fighter pilot with the German Air Force during World War One (19141918).

He is considered the ace-of-aces, being officially credited with 80 air combat victories.

He was born 2 May 1892, Breslau, Prussia (then part of the German Empire) and now present-day Wroclaw, Poland.

Originally a cavalryman, Richthofen transferred to the Air Services in 1915.

Eventually, he became the leader of the larger fighter unit Jagdgeschwader 1, better known as „The Flying Circus‟ or „Richthofen‟s Circus‟ because of the bright colours of its aircraft, the Fokker DR1 (triple wing). He painted his aircraft bright scarlet which eventually earned him the knick-name The Red Baron.

In Germany, he enjoyed the fame and playboy lifestyle and became the darling of the German nation but he was eventually shot down and killed near Vaux-sur-Somme on 21 April 1918. He remains one of the most widely known fighter pilots of all time. He became the subject of many books, films, and other media.

In 2018, was the 100 year anniversary of his death and several countries issued stamps and FDCs (First Day Covers) in his recognition. Displayed is a mini-sheet with two stamps issued by Sierra Leone alongside his portrait and some FDCs issued by Germany.

Our next meetings: 19th February „Far East, 4th March Auction Night, 18th March „Local Postal History‟. Non-members welcome. 19.00-21.00 Redcar East Community Centre, Durham Rd, Redcar TS10 3SB.

Contacts: Geoff Reynolds 01642 478229, Martin Snowdon 01287 622504.

Saltburn Line User Group Next Meeting: Tuesday, 7th January 2020 at 6.30pm.

Meetings at Saltburn Conservative Club are held on the first Tuesday of the month, and our starting time is now (permanently) 7pm.

As always, all welcome.

Talk to Saltburn Line User Group.

The Group exists to protect passengers‟ interests.

Find us at www.facebook.com/ saltburnlineusergroup Email the secretary on: slugsecretary@virginmedia.com

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LINE 44

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Postal Subscription to Talk of the Town If you enjoy Talk of the Town, why not subscribe?

You can have your favourite local magazine delivered anywhere in the UK for just £33.50 per year.

Just call us on 01642 477200 and we can take card payment over the phone.

You’ll then get the next 12 issues delivered direct to your door at the start of every month.

The Muses of Jim

Saltburn Allotments Association The New Year is here and the priority now is to clear your plot ready for growing if you haven‟t already.

Harvest your winter crops and make sure tall ones are supported against strong winds by drawing up soil around stems or staking.

Get your seed catalogues out and decide what you want to grow this season and order them! Make sure you have your seed potatoes on order. Collect trays or egg boxes to stand them in, as it allows them to grow some strong green buds (not long sprouts!) to be ready to grow when you plant them.

You can make a few early sowings of onions, broad beans, radish, peas and early carrots but ensure you protect them well if it gets frosty, using fleece.

Check on your stored veg and fruit to be sure they are not rotting and remove any that are deteriorating, as it will soon spread to the good ones.

Make sure you are ready for spring! New year is a time to look and perhaps change the way you garden.

There are many concerns today about climate, plastic and environment and more people are looking at the way they live and how they work, and the garden is a good place to rethink what you do. So much can be done to help the environment. I have mentioned many ways to do this in these monthly articles and thought the New Year would be a good time to revisit them.

Climate changes mean rainfall is sporadic and we are getting more drier spells between lots of heavy rain.

Try to collect rainwater wherever you can. I now have 12 barrels of various sizes and plan to add more if I can, this all helps to reduce the water I have to bring in via a hose. I even constructed downspouts from squash bottles and they are working well. No dig gardening can help in dry and wet spells, as your soil can be more resilient so do take a look or just try a small area to begin with if you are curious, and see how it goes.

We can all use less plastic. Reuse plant pots wherever possible and any other plastic you bring in. Try to avoid single use items just use again wherever you can.

Make your own compost and recycle what comes out of your kitchen and garden, it all reduces what you need to buy! Do not use tea bags to make compost as they have plastic in them.

Finally, peat takes about 1000 years for each millimetre to form and is dug out in hours; it holds carbon and is part of a fantastic ecosystem. Suppliers are supposed to be reducing the use of this but we are shopping cheaply and continuing to provide a market for it. Sometimes you need to think before you buy. There are many different peat-free options and we are stocking 2 different types for sale. I hope you will give them a try and, like us, work to make a change for the better in 2020.

Julia

I have just returned from a visit to London where daughter number two and granddaughter number one and I went on an adventure to see Tutankhamun‟s treasures.

The exhibition was superb and it was almost impossible to describe really. The workmanship was breathtaking and it was hard to imagine that the exhibits were 5,000 years old, they looked that fresh. The pharaoh must have got a shock when he found that the way to his expected paradise was non-existent because his religion was his way to wherever he wanted to go, but it was controlled by magic spells. As we were queuing, I was asked if I wanted to go through an easier way and if I could stand!

I declined. The down side was both the cafe and the shop within the gallery was very expensive, a common T-shirt was £30 and a folio book was £3,500; and not exactly flying off the shelves. Even an ordinary pencil cost a pound.

Whilst the exhibition was the highlight of the trip, the organisation of the rest was pretty chaotic. The hotel was at Heathrow and again the food and drinks were very expensive but the bedrooms were out of this world.

Another highlight was we visited the British Museum where I managed to get a photograph of the cloth found at Huntcliff and I saw the Rosetta stone, the first universal translator which enabled people to translate the hieroglyphics into Greek. Visiting the British Museum brought back memories of when I took Megan, about 15 years ago, to see the mummies. Whilst sitting in the cafe we even saw a living exhibition, Joe Johnson the Prime Minister‟s brother having a cup of coffee with a male friend, probably a reporter. The rest of the trip was rather mundane as we were left to our own devices each day and were waiting to be picked up.

By the time you read this, there will be some changes in Parliament. One can only hope that common sense prevails and Parliament looks to the betterment of the country rather than the politics of parties. We all should be working for the common good rather than being party driven and unfortunately it appears that this selfish attitude seems to be just as important in local politics where I feel it should be driven by the needs of the community. I‟d rather have a fully staffed hospital than two massive aircraft carriers with no planes. But what do I know about politics?

I am due to return to London next week and normally it is a Tuesday which would have meant that I would have missed the parish council meeting but it appears that they have changed the day to the Wednesday. So, I will be able to attend now and accept the chairman‟s invitation to have a drink with him. We didn‟t last year, which was only the second time in the thirty-two years I have been in the council that we didn‟t go for a drink with the chairman.

Finally, I hope you do have a peaceful, environmentally green New Year. Spud sends his love to all but he is annoyed that I didn‟t bring him some cat food from Harrods. But after all I am a poor pensioner and after having to pay £6 for a pint in London, my blood pressure has only just returned to normal.

Jim Wingham (and Megan who did the typing!)

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The Saltburn Crossword no 223 set by Dinosaur Across 1 Saltburn shop, at the heart of the community, is Jake‟s rest cover, a different arrangement (7, 10) 8 Washed down with a pipe? (5) 9 Departs for green foliage? (6) 10 To deter the side of the pavement? (4) 13 Arctic bird and novel by Paul Gallico (4, 5) 14 Transporters convert art sin (6) 16 and 22 Across Items sold in 1 Across deranged Gove loves N (4, 6) 17 See 33 Across 19 Walker strode about shrike minus south (6) 21 Many a Saltburn road is one setter apart (6) 22 See 16 Across 27 Particular diet mixed gave to northern (5) 29 Quite a few estate ones in Saltburn performing stage with northern (6) 30 Where clay is baked for family surrounding learner (4) 32 Closer initially north end and read to The Queen (6) 33 and 17 Across Item sold in 1 Across true ship lion fur redressing (9, 6) 36 The way out sees former lover take on computers (4) 37 To make different and improve backing The Queen for my first (6) 38 Fewest rotting stale (5) 39 Essential local provider of waiter Ron ran thumb around (12, 5)

Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ ________________________________________ Telephone_______________________________

Down

1 and 24 Down Local road June has oven not deciphered (8, 6) 2 Without which no business can survive, must score anyhow (9) 3 Colour of find I go to see (6) 4 Artillery discharge initially shot at last veteran out (5) 5 Intellectual? It‟s a matter of opinion (8) 6 Has got revenge? It‟s not odd (4) 7 Tall monument of British new year honour, Roman fifty-one and last two of risk (7) 11 Several cafes in Saltburn described as thus second letter riots (6) 12 Record of information etc is first a curve then a bees‟ home (7) 15 Holiday cottage? In each ale tasting (6) 18 No Saltburn streets are thus sounding wan weigh (3-3) 20 Every magazine needs one in sprint error (7) 23 Anything that excites Lt Ian must get confounded (9) 24 See 1 Down 25 The bottom of the ocean is spreading as of role (3, 5) 26 Progenitor canes about before hill (8) 28 River of ice melting eg Clair (7) 31 There‟s such a close in Saltburn if intention shortens owe (6) 34 Latin dance joins alcoholic spirit to Bachelor of the Arts (5) 35 Abound with wildlife for the sporting group (4)

Solution to Crossword no 222

The winner of last month‟s crossword was Mr G Pickavance of Churchill Drive, Marske.

D. V. Townend & Co 8 Dundas Street East, Saltburn TS12 1AH

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Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 223, c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ

by Friday, 17th January 2020. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Real Meals.

Castleton Author, John Watson A Journey of Hope is an historical fictional story - 85,000 words - set at the turn of the 19th Century and follows the life of Ruth Brennan, born into abject poverty in the city of York. When she suffers the loss of her parents, the cruelty and neglect suffered at the orphanage force her to flee to the coast in search of work. On her epic journey, she stumbles upon the small hamlet of Gallows Howe set in the very heart of the spectacular North York Moors where she discovers a new way of life, true friendship and eventually love.

It is a story that will touch the heart one minute, gladden the spirit the next and, eventually, keep you turning the page.

A Journey of Hope is on sale at most major bookshops. Guisborough Bookshop, W.H.Smith Redcar, Whitby Bookshop, Holmans, Whitby, Claridges, Helmsley and Sutton Bank and Danby visitors Centre, plus many more cafes and retail outlets down the Esk Valley. Price is £7.99 and I am currently doing future book signings and talks on `A Journey of Hope` and the North York Moors.

John Watson About the Author Born in 1943, John describes himself as „born and bred in Castleton in the North York moors‟. He attended Castleton Primary School until 11 years old and found he had a passion for reading and the written word. Unfortunately he failed the 11 plus exam and attended the newly built Eskdale School at Whitby. He left with no qualifications.

John says, “I like to blame the love of sport and competition overpowering any sense of direction I may have possessed, but that is only an excuse. For all that, I wouldn`t change a thing. No regrets.”

He was a bricklayer by trade, and with his wife he started his own building business when in his middle twenties and the hard work of running this and bringing up a young family left little time for anything else. In the mid sixties, however, he made the decision to go back to education, took some GCSE and then A level exams in English Literature and was pleasantly surprised with his results.

With most of his former sporting activities behind him at retiring age, he rekindled the passion and dedication for writing and began to have articles accepted for magazines such as The Dalesman and This England on local history and events of the past, while also supplying reports and photos on motorcycle trials and motocross events in this area.

A Journey of Hope is his first novel which will be

followed by a horror story, a real spine tingling read, delving into the unknown, followed by the sequel to A Journey of Hope which unfolds the next episode of Ruth Brennan`s extraordinary life as she reaches womanhood and how the horrors of the 1st World War affect her world.

There are still a few copies of Talk of the Town’s 2020 calendar available, for those who wanted one but who were disappointed not to get one for Christmas! At only £5 they are a real bargain and the stunning photographs by Heather Lofthouse are quite simply beautiful.

The calendar is also an essential fundraiser to help keep the magazine going through these difficult financial times. Every penny raised goes to help pay the next monthly printing bill.

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£35.00

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