Stockton
news Summer/Autumn 2011
The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council
contents Summer/Autumn 2011
Welcome
to Stockton News
Use the colour coding system to make finding what you’re interested in even easier. Here are some of the highlights...
Stockton - open for business
Pages 4-9
You can foster - and achieve qualifications
News Round Up
2
Economic Regeneration and Transport
4
Adults Services
13
Children and Young People
14
Community Safety
18
Health and Wellbeing
20
Environment and Housing
22
Arts, Culture and Leisure
25
Strong Communities
36
Your Council
38
Focus On Your Area
40
What’s On
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Stockton International Riverside Festival
Centre page pull-out
Stockton News is published by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and distributed to households across the Borough free of charge. Editor: Vince Rutland, Deputy Editor: Jacky Stevely. To contact the editorial team or if you have not received a copy please call (01642) 526098 or e-mail jacky.stevely@stockton.gov.uk
Stockton News is produced by Stockton Council’s Communications Unit and designed by Bridge Design Group. Pictures courtesy of the Evening Gazette, Peter Mernagh, Gary Walsh, Gilmar Ribeiro, Dave Charnley and Bosch Creative. Front cover main picture: Argentina’s Voila present the UK premiere of ‘Muare’ in the SIRF finale on 7 August. Other pictures: the Mayor’s Charity duck race and a scene from Armed Forces Day.
It aims to provide news and information about the Council, its partner organisations, and local community groups and businesses. Every effort is made to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication. Your views and comments are welcome.
Please call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or e-mail jacky.stevely@stockton.gov.uk
There is an audio version of Stockton News.
news Stockton
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News Round Up
Stockton Council works hard to provide a host of events, activities and facilities for residents to enjoy across the Borough – all year round.
New Homes are coming to life
This reaches a peak each summer as we eagerly anticipate the fantastic Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF), Stockton Weekender and Billingham International Folklore Festival. This year’s SIRF promises to be the best yet, as performers on high wires, street theatre and dance troupes transform the High Street, free for all to enjoy. Stockton Weekender, organised by the Tees Music Alliance, has attracted some world-famous acts for their first North East visit. It promises to draw the crowds at a fraction of the cost of many other major UK festivals - and is free on Sunday. Already attracting the crowds is Billingham Forum and this Stockton News features just some of the 15,000 opening day visitors. With so much going on, even when you live here it’s not always easy to know exactly where to go and what to enjoy. This Stockton News highlights our new Boroughwide Visitor Guide – a useful resource for local people and tourists alike. For older residents, our ‘Golden Guide’ signposts people to the wide range of activities, support and information available. Helping people find out where to learn new skills, the Tees Achieve prospectus is also launched this month. Featuring a wide range of courses offered by the Council’s Tees Achieve service and Stockton Riverside College, it can be the springboard into self-employment, a new career or training. This issue highlights just a few local people who have done just that. It’s also great to see the new £2m science block open at Stockton 6th Form College. A wonderful resource for students, it is a credit to the college team and I look forward to the next phase of their development. Supporting business and encouraging new investment into the Borough is an important role for the Council. So I’m delighted to feature local firms which are building their businesses with our support. From computer firms such as Visualsoft in Portrack Lane to Total Control and Distribution at Preston Farm, local businesses are creating new jobs and opportunities. Our town centre retailers are also important businesses and this year we want to recognise their success and contributions with our new Town Centre Retail Awards. These are a chance for traders to promote their business and demonstrate why they are the best, so I’d encourage shops or restaurants, big and small, to get involved and celebrate their success.
Neil Schneider Chief Executive, Stockton Borough Council
Work is well under way on construction of 50 highquality homes at the first phase of the Northshore development in Stockton. This first phase will incorporate two-, three- and four-bed terraced and semi-detached homes constructed to the highest possible standards of energy efficiency. Work is on track for the first showhome to open in November, with a sales centre on site from August. Muse Developments – the developer behind the Northshore scheme – is working in with family housing specialist and sister company Lovell on this phase. Muse and Lovell will shortly reveal the new name for the first phase, giving it its own identity within the overall Northshore vision. They will also launch a website and exciting new computer-generated images of the homes available during the summer to bring this exciting scheme to life – watch out for further updates at www.northshorestocktonontees.com New aerial shots have also been taken of the site and its fantastic location, showing its proximity to the riverside, which will be linked by a pedestrian route. To find out more about the homes available at Northshore, call Lovell’s regional sales team on 0113 202 2288.
Guiding our visitors Packed with information on Stockton’s towns, heritage, beautiful parks and countryside, as well as shopping, eating out, leisure activities, events and accommodation, Stockton’s new Visitor Guide is now available from the Stockton Tourist Information Centre (in the Shambles), libraries, hotels and guest houses, or at www.visitstockton.co.uk or by calling (01642) 528130.
www.stockton.gov.uk
Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
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Fantastic Forum! Around 15,000 visitors flocked to see for themselves the Billingham Forum leisure centre on its official opening day on 3 June, following its £18.5 million refurbishment.
Along with al l the leisure fa cilities there’ and stylish re s a new ception area and if you fa there’s the ne ncy a cuppa w café in the glazed atrium stylish recept in the ion area.
Proving the pool offers enjoyment for all ages, John James was the firs t senior citizen to tak ea dip.
r ols were Jamie Walke First to try out the po m 25 six s ha ol po in The ma and Chelsea Moore. ed ish rner pool, refurb lanes and there’s a lea s and spectator area. let toi , changing rooms
elcomed Everyone w
k.
f the ice rin
the return o
Rudd, Steve Left to right Louis Gale, Conor e first on the new wer n Raybold and Callum Dixo d spectator rade upg an des inclu ch ice pad, whi facilities. ging chan area, toilets, skate hire and
Getting into fitness in the newly refurbished extended gym which offers an additional 30 health and fitness stations ma king 70 in total.
The two lane bowls court has been refurbished as have the four court sports hall and two squash courts. To find out more about the Forum visit www.teesactive.co.uk Or call (01642) 551 381 - for Swim, Ice and General Bookings Email: billinghamforum@teesactive.co.uk
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Stockton
Come on – back local businesses!
– open for business
There are plenty of exciting things happening amongst the Borough’s businesses particularly amongst our new and expanding companies. In the next few pages, we put highlight some of our local business success stories. We also spotlight some new and emerging businesses which are showing the way as they take their first steps along the road to commercial success. The variety is amazing – with new small retailers, fashion designers, an internet software house and everything in between. Stockton is very much open for business! We also focus on just how much some learners have achieved. For many, this will be their first steps on the road to a new career – or even a new business. If these stories inspire you, why not get in touch to find out more? If you’d like to find out more, visit: Business advice: www.stockton.gov.uk/business Adult learning: www.stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve
(l-r) New business owners Gary Webley, Tracy Hart, Brian Jackson, Yousif Ali and Alison Bould.
The Enterprise Arcade pilot project, next to Debenhams in Stockton’s High Street, has been open for business for a few months and traders are keen to entice more people to look inside. These budding retailers are test-trading their business ideas for six months, before deciding whether to open their own outlets. They are keen to encourage shoppers to come and have a look at what’s on offer
and show support for local independent retailers. A variety of businesses in the Arcade include Victoria Jackson Renovated Furniture, designer menswear outlet DW Clothing, Chocs Away selling blast from the past sweets, remote control and Games Workshop specialist Hobbies R Uz and Embellish selling hair, jewellery and fashion accessories. The Enterprise Arcade is funded by One North East and delivered by Hartlepool and Stockton Councils.
Awards showcase Borough’s retailers The search is on for Stockton Borough’s crème de la crème of town centre businesses. Entries are now open for the Borough’s first ever Town Centre Retail awards which will see shops and eateries in town centres recognised for their trading excellence. Road shows are taking place across the Borough throughout the summer to encourage shoppers and businesses to take part. Stockton Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our town centre businesses to show they are among the very best. “Stockton’s town centres already boast some excellent shops and businesses and it is essential they are nurtured and developed so they continue to make a valuable contribution to the local economy. We have many gems in Stockton Borough which attract visitors and shoppers from our area and further afield and they deserve our support and to be celebrated.” The awards are organised by Stockton Council’s Town Centres Management and will culminate in a ceremony at Stockton Town Hall on Wednesday 19 October. A total of six
awards are up for grabs and the winners will each receive £250. “The Consumers’ Town Centre Business of the Year” award is the only category which will be voted for solely by the public, whose votes will determine the winner. And businesses are invited to submit entries in five categories – Eatery of the Year, Independent Retailer of the Year, Market Trader of the Year, National Chain of the Year and Newcomer of the Year. Richard Poundford added: “The Consumers’ Town Centre Business of the Year award is a great chance for residents to support their local shops and businesses and make sure they are recognised for going the extra mile and putting the customer first in all they do. “It is also important for traders to celebrate their own strengths. The application process is quick and simple and I would like to encourage all traders in all of our town centres to take part.” A panel of expert judges will meet to consider entries and mystery shoppers will help select the overall winners. Entry forms are available from libraries across the Borough and can be downloaded at www.stockton.gov.uk/ businessawards
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
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The Visualsoft approach
Tucked away on Portrack Lane is an award winning company which has gained international recognition through hard work, creative thinking and innovation. Visualsoft, which designs and develops online stores, is one of the UK’s fastest growing eCommerce agencies, with more than 350 clients ranging from small independent stores to multinational chains. Set up by Richard Bendelow and Dean Benson, both products of Teesside University, Visualsoft began as a small web design and internet marketing company with team of just five. Their original ideas began in 1998, as many successful companies do, in their respective bedrooms in Ingleby Barwick and Marton, with the world’s first online free training website. From then, innovation was at the heart of all they would do. Other design companies were gaining accolades for the hard groundwork supplied by Visualsoft’s technology team so the pair decided to expand in the eCommerce industry, offering companies a complete website package, including design, development and online marketing. They focus on helping clients optimise their website to become ‘search engine friendly’, appearing at the top of search engines such as Google. Today, Visualsoft offers clients a complex yet advantageous service. With its in-house technology, Visualsoft can offer a wealth of services tailored to the client’s profile by designing and building the websites with, the ability to add a myriad of extras to meet clients’ requirements and budget. One facility enables companies to keep track of stock levels – crucial to their efficiency. Visualsoft can also
automatically link a company’s website and products with other sites such as Ebay, Amazon, Facebook and Twitter. In the last two years Visualsoft has more than trebled its size, with around 60 employees in various roles including website design, development and online marketing – all highly skilled and customer focused. Visualsoft still finds time to work with local companies and education establishments to return something to the community. The company sponsored this year’s EXPOTEES event at Teesside University, offering the winning entry an internship with Visualsoft and the prospect of a fulltime role. Visualsoft employs a number of North East graduates and local apprentices, giving young people the chance of a qualification whilst earning money in the trade. Richard Bendelow said: “We joined the world wide web at exactly the right time, which means we now have 13 years of research and development behind us, as well as the biggest advantage in the industry – experience. “It keeps us ahead of our competitors and enables us to offer the best service, coupled with a great workforce of hardworking staff.” The recent recession has also given Visualsoft an advantage, as traders turned to the internet to sell their goods online. Hard work and innovation has now made it one of the top five companies in the country in its field. Currently looking for programmers and developers to join its expanding workforce, Visualsoft welcomes enquiries from anyone who can offer good technology skills. If you would like to know more, call (01642) 633604 for an informal chat, visit www.visualsoft.co.uk or email careers@visualsoft.co.uk with your details.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Fennella for fashion An exciting, up-and-coming fashion brand from Stockton has made a huge impact touring the country and styling the latest trendsetters with its funky and classic designs.
The initial project has been funded by the Enterprise Culture Project through the European Regeneration & Development, Communities Fund. They pair plan to develop their work with students so the profits made will allow
more students to become involved in future years.
To find out more call Christine on 07837 655353 or Laura on 07504 694554 or visit http://www.fennelladisign.co.uk
Behind the company are local entrepreneurs Laura Pearn and Christine Filmer-Sankey, who run things from their premises at Stockton Business Centre. They’ve already showcased their latest range on the catwalk with the North East’s top new designers in the prestigious Newcastle Fashion Week. Both are passionate about enterprise and are working in the community to give something back to young people by linking up with those who are currently with Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve to mentor students from Stockton. The girls have been working with the students and the Council’s Enterprise Co-ordinator each week to help them design and produce their very own fashion brand – due to be showcased and sold at Chic Vintique Fair on Saturday 16 July at the Parish Gardens in Stockton.
A ‘secure’ future For years Peter Troy dreamed of starting his own business in security solutions, but didn’t know how to turn it into reality.
Lamps – working for myself has improved my work-life balance.
Having worked 15 years with Cleveland Police, Peter (pictured), from Stockton, had a wealth of experience in designing, maintaining and installing electronic security and audio visual systems. He also recently gained a BSc (Honors) degree for IT in education and a PGCE in teaching and training adults.
To find out about Quad Security Solutions call 07913 971 370, visit www. quadsecuritysolutions.co.uk or email quadsecssol@gmail.com For more information on The Five Lamps s call (01642) 608316 or visit www.fivelamps.org.uk
“I hope as my business grows, I am able to offer someone an apprenticeship.”
Business advice support from The Five Lamps in Thornaby and funding from them, Stockton Council and Working Links resulted in the creation of Quad Security Solutions, which opened for business in April. Peter has been busy with installation jobs and service contracts and is working hard to market his company to future customers for both business and domestic installations. He said “I’d encourage anyone thinking about starting their own business to contact Five
Peter Troy with Simon Coe (Five Lamps’ Business Development Officer).
In total control
A small Stockton company has taken on the giants of its industry to win a national award. Total Control & Distribution (TCD), based at Preston Farm, manufacture and distribute wholesale electrics products including steel enclosures made for the German firm Rittal, the world’s biggest box maker. Now in its sixth year of trading, TCD has been named the Rittal distributor of the year. With grant assistance from Stockton Council, TCD moved from Portrack to Navigator Court, where they set up an assembly department, offering shorter deadlines to stay ahead of competitors.
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
A business with vision Word of mouth in the business world is often the way some businesses progress and that’s certainly true of David Brown’s business IT4VISION.
“Due to the recent surge in work and the amount of equipment we have had to purchase, we needed a unit. So we’ve moved into the Business Centre, which is turning out to have been a fantastic decision.”
Based in Stockton Business Centre in Brunswick Street, Stockton, it is going from strength to strength. From small beginnings in 2009 on a Gateshead building site, it has grown into a national company specialising in installing of CCTV and WireFREE Alarms.
To find out about IT4VISON call (01642) 808081, 07715 571118, email dave@it4vision. com or visit www.it4vision.com
A conversation when that contract was complete led to another for a care home group across the UK and the rest, as they say, is history. David said: “We have various other projects on the go, including a petrol tanker storage site in Widnes, near Liverpool, a new fish and chip restaurant in Seaton Carew as well as everyday repairs and maintenance.
In May, 31-year-old Michelle Wardle was awarded the NHS Learning to Improve Health - Regional Highly Commended Award in the North-East National Adult Learners Awards at Durham Cathedral. After joining Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve Employability Skills Programme, Michelle achieved Level 1 Numeracy, Level 2 Literacy, the European Computer Driving Licence and became a popular member of the group – often assisting and supporting her peers. Michelle said: “The Tees Achieve courses not only helped me gain qualifications, my confidence and self-esteem has also drastically improved and, for the first time in years, my hair is growing back!” Recently completing an initial teacher training course, Michelle gained a further award. Richard Poundford, the Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “Michelle is truly deserving of this award and a real inspiration to others. Lifelong learning isn’t just about gaining
Meet The Property Team A business development manager before being made redundant, Mark Spiller had the right background for starting his own local business – The Property Team. As the name suggests, the company deals with all manner of internal and external work to properties.
A Grade II listed building in Cambridgeshire, converted into a care home using IT4VISION’s wire-free alarms.
National recognition for Stockton learner A Norton woman who battled through depression and alopecia to achieve numerous qualifications and follow her dream of becoming a teacher, is receiving national recognition.
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qualifications – it can make a real difference to your personal life as well. “Tees Achieve really does offer something for everybody, whether it is learning for employment, learning for life or learning for interest.” For more information about Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve service visit www.stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve
Craftsmen in the team include a plumber, tiler, plasterer, joiner, electrician, gas fitter and general handymen for gardens, groundworks and drives. To help with taking the business forward Mark has received support from Stockton Council’s Business Development Team and The Five Lamps, Thornaby. Mark says: “I’m looking forward to leading my business in the area. We pride ourselves on quality work and, importantly, reliable staff. What sets us apart is our online diary booking system, which customers can access and decide when we will attend for a free quotation – it’s convenient and improves our reliability.” You can see some of The Property Team’s work on Facebook (search for The Property Team) or call Mark Spiller on 07890 591918 or email thepropertyteam@ hotmail.com
Christina McElvaney from Tees Achieve and Michelle Wardle at Durham Cathedral
An example of some of The Property Team’s work
Stockton
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
‘Plan your own wedding’, ‘From Plot to Pot – making the most of growing your own’, ‘Recycle clothing’ and ‘Zumba’ – just a few flavours of the new courses on offer from Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve – the Council’s Adult Education Service – from September. Tees Achieve has courses for everyone and that’s the way it has always been, with courses reflecting the interests and needs of local people. 1960’s courses included ‘The Modern Home – A course for the young housewife and First Aid for the busy young wife and mother’. The 1970’s saw ‘Cookery for young wives and brides to be’ and ‘Cookery for Bachelors – mini meals’, with ‘Supernatural Local History’ in the 1980s and ‘Indian Head Massage’ in the 1990s.
She said: “At first I really struggled and felt frustrated, as I was finding even basic additions difficult but, with the support and encouragement of my Tees Achieve tutor, I soon started to enjoy lessons. “I can now look at new topics without panicking as I understand I can learn – I didn’t think I could before. “I know a lot more now. I’ve just passed my Entry 3 Maths text and am working towards the Numeracy Level 1 Diagnostic Assessment. It’s fantastic to know I’ll be able to help my son when he starts school. “I know I have a long road ahead of me but I know what I can achieve now and I’m determined to qualify as a nurse so my son and I can have a good life.”
Tees Achieve courses are still helping people shape their lives in many ways – as these learners explain: 23-year-old Lindsey, a young mum from Stockton, took up numeracy classes last September. Very reluctant at first due to bad experiences with numeracy teachers at school, she suffered from very low confidence and self-esteem but now she is committed to turning her life around and becoming a nurse.
Sanguannoi Dennis, 43, from Ingleby Barwick, has progressed from beginner to advanced photography despite English not being her first language. Earlier this year, she used her photography skills to work with friends to produce a “Calendar Girls” style calendar which sold out in two days, raising £500 for Breast Cancer Research. Sanguannoi doesn’t want to stop there, saying: “When I first enrolled on the Tees Achieve course I was very nervous but the tutor, Harry Pilbeam, was fantastic and soon put me at ease. “I made lots of friends and was delighted the skills I developed helped me with the calendar. “I’m now focusing on people and portraits and I’d love to use photography to raise money for children’s cancer charities in future.” Stockton martial arts instructor Steve Todd, 56, recently achieved a Counselling Level 1 and Teaching Training certificates. He said: “I enrolled to further my qualifications and improve my employability and life skills.
www.stockton.gov.uk
Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
s for life “I’m really interested in counselling as it gives me an opportunity to help people – I didn’t realise the vast range of pressures people can find themselves under until I did the course. “I definitely think education is the key to improving people’s life chances. Tees Achieve courses are a fantastic way to continue learning in a friendly yet professional environment and the course material is well-presented and thought provoking. “I would encourage other people to consider a course and I’m also hoping to pursue my interest in counselling through Tees Achieve.” Fae Osborne, 33, from Billingham enjoyed a Tees Achieve jewellery-making course and now has her own website www.prettypieces-byfae.co.uk to sell what she makes.
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New cycle routes open Two new cycle and walking routes are open, between Ingleby Barwick and Preston Park and an extension of Castle Eden Walkway in Hartburn. The route between Ingleby Barwick and Preston Park shortens the route between the two. Linking to the cycle network at The Rings, it runs to the west of Queen Elizabeth Way across Jubilee Bridge, then west through the Preston Farm Nature Reserve to Preston Park.
and cyclists, linking to Ropner Park, Hartburn Primary and residential areas nearby. It also connects with the National Cycle Network route 14 between Darlington and Stockton. This route was funded by Stockton Council’s Local Transport Plan and sustainable transport charity Sustrans through the links to Schools and Communities Fund.
The traffic-free route increases access to the Tees Heritage Park and was funded by the Council’s Local Transport Plan and Community Spaces Fund through the Friends of Tees Heritage Park. Tees Heritage Park will stretch between Yarm and Stockton, making the most of our rich heritage, landscape and wildlife. The 900 metre section of the Castle Eden Walkway between Oxbridge Lane and Darlington Road provides a traffic-free path for walkers
The route between Ingleby Barwick and Preston Park.
“It’s just a hobby at the minute but it could become more,” said Fae. “I set up the website so friends, and friends of friends, could see what I’m making and order pieces.” Fae’s work includes keyrings and bag charms, which she sells to raise funds for Breast Cancer Research in memory of a friend who died recently. Homes across Stockton will receive the 2011/12 prospectus at the end of July, with copies also available at libraries and community centres. To find out more or book a course, visit www.stockton.gov. uk/teesachieve or call (01642) 527904.
Easing the squeeze: Improvements begin this summer to help reduce the time cars wait to leave Teesside Park from the Morrison’s filling station area. Stockton Council is carrying out the work, which includes a dedicated lane to allow traffic to join the westbound A66, with funding from Teesside Park Management. It will be complete in time for the Christmas shopping season.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Driving costs down In these times of austerity, businesses need to look at their carbon footprint and its effect on their costs. Driveshield, based in the Business Centre in Stockton’s Brunswick Street, have not only taken steps to reduce their own carbon footprint and reduce fuel costs but can also help companies with any size of fleet to reduce theirs. Driveshield can help companies to reduce their fuel consumption with their vehicle tracking system.
You can see the system in action by visiting www. smartrackmap.com They’ve halved fuel consumption by changing their own large vans for smaller models and employees are saving a further 25 per cent by taking a fuel-efficient driving course run by SAFED. Driveshield offer a free demonstration either at business premises or over the phone. To find out more visit , call (01642) 608464 or 07831 823162 or email stuart.cox@ driveshield.co.uk
They’ve gone forward View planning online Brian Woods and Timothy Kasambara have started work as Customer Consultation Officers at Tristar Homes, part of the Vela Group, after taking part in a six-week Go Forward course to develop customer service skills and knowledge about the affordable housing sector. They were among ten Norton Grange residents to complete
the course, organised by Tristar Homes with support from North East Employer Coalition, Contact Centre Professional (CCP) and Know How North East. This pilot training programme develops skills for employment in social housing and to help meet Tristar Homes’ future needs. Tristar Homes and Know How North East supported the students, providing the training facilities and recruiting people to the programme.
Stockton Council's planning service has improved its online planning system, allowing planning applications to be viewed and tracked with convenient access to planning information without the need to travel to the planning office. The system, called Public Access, offers new features including personal email notification, based on the applications and locations you are interested in. Other significant features are better search options and improved accessibility. Plans and documents are available online for applications received after 1990. A full set of all planning records from 1948 to 1989 held at our office are continually being put onto the system to make all our planning records available online. A live link and up-to-date access is
immediately available to information relating to valid applications. You can use Public Access to:• Apply for planning permission • Comment on planning applications • View recent applications for your area • Monitor current planning applications online • See a written description of each application • See location maps, detailed drawings, plans, correspondence and reports • View current appeals against planning decisions • View decision notices • Perform property searches • Save searches, track applications and be informed by email of any changes • Get local Councillors’ details To see online planning applications visit www. developmentmanagement. stockton.gov.uk/onlineapplications/
New roundabout: Works on a new roundabout are
Pictured (l-r) Tristar Homes’ Personal Adviser Tracy Simmons, Go Forward tutor Graeme Welsh and students Timothy Kasambrara, David Homes and Brian Woods
scheduled to start later this summer to provide access to the Teesside Industrial Estate, Thornaby from the A174 Parkway extension between the A19 and Thornaby Road. It will provide heavy goods vehicles with a direct link into the industrial estate avoiding the busy Thornaby Road. Funded by UK Land Ltd, the works are scheduled to last for 30 weeks.
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
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A DAY IN THE
LIFE STEVE CROW
Hundreds of people have put their feet on the ladder of success thanks to Steve Crow. Steve, 55, is a Lead Training Officer for what is now known as Tees Achieve – Stockton Council’s training and employment service. Having previously done some part-time teaching, which he thoroughly enjoyed, and worked in a joinery business, he decided to take the leap and become a full-time tutor. Since 2002, Steve has passed on his skills and training at the Training Centre in Portrack to men and women of all ages, who have completed full training courses and gone on to be successful in the construction business. Tees Achieve takes trainees on various courses from the age of 16 onwards. A quick phone call is all it needs to obtain an application form. Applicants can then attend a taster day, held every three months or so to give prospective trainees an insight of what courses entail. Courses take up to 40 trainees at a time, who can join at any time of the year – unlike college courses, the Centre operates a rolling programme. Proud of the high retention of trainees, Steve puts this down to the Centre’s ethos. He said: “We treat everyone as an individual here – we’re more like a family and ensure everyone is looked after and nurtured, which pays off. We are also keen for parents to keep in touch with us to see how their youngsters progress.
“We treat everyone as an individual here – we’re more like a family.” Part of Steve’s role entails going out and visiting employers to explain what the Centre does, as well as encouraging them to take on trainees who can really be an asset to companies. Like many other areas, the recent economic climate has had an impact but Steve is keen to engage young people on the scheme which, in most cases, is free for young people up to the age of 19. Above that, there may be some costs to employers. The main courses are in joinery but Maintenance Operations is now available, which consists of bricklaying, painting and decorating and plastering to give a basic knowledge of the construction industry. The Centre offers the Full Framework qualification, including the Construction Award Alliance Diploma and NVQ, Construction Site Certification Scheme health and safety training and appropriate key skills.
To gain the Full Framework, trainees need to be employed and spend one day a week at the Centre on day release. In certain circumstances, the Centre can take some people who are unemployed. Qualifications go up to NVQ Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships. It takes about two years to gain NVQ Level 2 and four years for Level 3 but, says Steve, this depends on the individual and can be shorter. Steve is married to Angela and they have two children Laura, 26, and Tim, 20. In his spare time Steve is a keen photographer, with landscapes being his passion – look out for his pictures in the local papers and on the Tyne Tees Television weather forecast. If you are a prospective trainee or employer and would like to find out more about the Tees Achieve training centre and courses available, visit www. stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve email Steve on steve.crow@stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 601777.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
The sky’s the limit! We are fortunate having a facility on our doorstep which is friendly, easily accessible, has loads of parking and, crucially, has ambitious plans to grow for the benefit and convenience of local people of Teesside. Q: What are we talking about? A: Our fantastic Durham Tees Valley Airport of course! From its former life before 1962, as an RAF base, nowadays Durham Tees Valley Airport has many more ‘strings’ to its bow by helping the local economy in ways not immediately obvious to many.
to look at efficiencies resulting in the airport being in a far better financial position in 2011. The Passenger Facility Fee (PFF) introduced in November 2010 also helped to put the Airport on a better financial footing.
A coup for the airport is the recent introduction and trial of the world’s first ‘liquid scanner’. This fascinating piece of technology created by Kromek at Netparks, Sedgefield, can actually identify the individual liquids being carried by passengers and is another export opportunity for the airport.
In 2004, and for the following six years, Peel Holdings invested a financial boost of £30 million to the airport which included new Terminal facia, car park expansion, upgrading of runway lighting and airside facilities including a new parking area for aircraft.
This, along with the new venture by Sycamore Aviation - a recycling scheme where aircraft are flown in, dismantled and 95 per cent recycled, is all good news for Durham Tees Valley’s commercial profile.
Historically the airport’s best year was in 2006 when around 960,000 passengers passed through its Terminal. However, as with many ventures the high hit a low - as low cost carriers began to operate. On top of this turmoil, the slump in 2007 caused many airlines to go out of business – Globespan being one of them. The consolidation of airlines such as First Choice with Thompson and My Travel with Thomas Cook resulted in a reduction in routes. This had quite a devastating effect with the demise of some airlines globally and, as such, passenger numbers dropped at Durham Tees Valley Airport during 2009/2010 by 47 per cent and again by another 22 per cent in 2010 bringing passenger numbers to 230,000 per year. Then just over a year ago Vancouver Airport Services, who run 16 airports around the world including, Airports in Canada, South America, the Caribbean and Cyprus added its pedigree to Durham Tees Valley.
their commercial needs. As in the case with Camair, part of the Casper Shipping Group (based on Teesside), with its very successful import service and a myriad of goods from destinations like Korea, the Middle East and the USA going in and out of the airport.
If you have an ambition to fly an aeroplane then one of Durham Tees Valley’s three flying schools can train you towards a Private Pilots’ Licence.
Mike said: “The PFF was well received and the majority of our passengers knew, and understood, why it was introduced and more importantly why it had to be done. “People want their International Airport to be successful and vibrant as we most certainly do and we are doing everything in our power to ensure we are motoring on the runway to success.”
Peel Airports Ltd (PAL) consist of 3 Airports – Liverpool John Lennon, Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield and Durham Tees Valley – Vancouver Airport Services (VAS) took 65 per cent controlling stake in PAL.
Durham Tees Valley is perfectly placed with its proximity to another airport with more than 600 global destinations – namely Schipol in Amsterdam - a mere 45 flying minutes way! A convenient link for local travellers opening up global opportunities.
In June 2010 Mike Morton (pictured) was appointed as Airport Director and continued a review of the business
As well as serving the needs of passengers, Durham Tees Valley also works closely with businesses to meet
The airport is also a crucial link with the armed forces for its military training over the North Sea and is the major airport for our troop movement for tours to war zones such as Afghanistan. The management team is talking to airlines to expand destinations and, with support from local travellers with demand, the knock on effect could result in an expansion of routes across the globe – so do support your local airport! As we said at the beginning we are fortunate to have this compact and perfectly formed airport on our doorstep – where we can enjoy a stress free transition from check-in to boarding – it’s so good perhaps we should keep it to ourselves as our best kept secret! You can find out everything there is to know about what Durham Tees Valley Airport has to offer by visiting www. durhamteesvalleyairport.com
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Adults Services
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Social focus for dementia sufferers Dementia can describe circumstances where adults suffer progressive symptoms, including memory loss, mood changes, and problems with communication and reasoning. These occur when certain diseases damage the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or a series of small strokes. Fusion Café is a meeting place which provides an accessible social outlet for people with dementia and their carer to attend together. Refreshments and entertainment is provided, including singers, dancers, musicians and storytellers – with the audience encouraged to join in! It meets on the last Friday of every month at the Clevearc Training Centre at Kirkdale, Radcliffe Crescent, Teesdale, Stockton TS17 6BS, from 2pm-4pm. For details call Corinne Walsh on (01642) 352744.
Ex-service study wins praise
The golden years: The new “Golden Guide” adults services directory (pictured) is now available and is packed with useful information such as activities, services and organisations for older residents. Copies are available from all libraries or you can find it at www.stockton.gov.uk/goldenguide
Give it a swipe New ‘smart ticketing’ technology is now benefitting Stagecoach and Go North East bus passengers, with Arriva due to follow later this year. National over-60s concessionary bus pass holders simply need to hold their card against a reader until their ticket prints to register their journey. Pass holders travelling before 9.30am on weekday mornings will still need to pay 30 pence. The system will help speed up buses and mean bus operators can be reimbursed more accurately and quickly for concessionary travel. Smaller operators could also follow, making smart ticketing available across the region. In future, bus operators also plan to sell their own commercial smart passes, replacing existing discount schemes. ‘Pay as you go’ cards which can be topped up will be introduced throughout the region under the North East Smart Ticketing Initiative, supported by Stockton and other councils in the Tees Valley. If your pass doesn’t work with the new equipment, contact Stockton Council on (01642) 528499. You can still use your old pass for a limited time until a replacement arrives.
Work by 12 North East councils – including Stockton – to address health inequalities amongst ex-service people has won national recognition, beating 80 national entries at the Good Scrutiny Awards 2011. Awards for ‘Joint Working’ and ‘Overall Impact’ came for completing a 12-month study of the physical and mental health and socioeconomic wellbeing needs of ex-service people and their families and ensuring they have support in their communities. Hosted by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, the awards recognise good scrutiny across the public sector. Judges praised the North East Health Scrutiny Joint Committee entry for embracing regional working, taking on such a sensitive subject and making a real difference to the ex-service community. The study involved extensive discussions with the armed forces, ex-forces personnel, the NHS, other public bodies and voluntary organisations. It found a range of needs
and priorities to be met by public bodies managing everything from housing to health and resulted in 47 recommendations for improvement. Some measures to appoint Armed Forces Champions and take account of specific housing and mental health needs of the ex-service community, along with those of vulnerable service leavers, are already being taken up. Brigadier Greville Bibby, Army Commander in the North East, said he was ‘truly humbled’ by the commitment and time people were investing in trying to understand and resolve these challenges. Andrew Drake MBE of the Royal British Legion said: “A tremendous amount of effort has been put in. Now this excellent report has been produced, the challenge is that the recommendations are implemented.” Care Services Minister Paul Burstow has pledged to make sure the recommendations are taken into consideration at regional level. To view the full report visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ exservicehealthreview
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Children and Young People
You can foster… and achieve qualifications Foster carers from Stockton Borough have come forward to share their stories and highlight the rewards of fostering in a bid to encourage other people to picture themselves as foster carers. Rob and Julie Teale have been fostering for 18 years and during this time have so far fostered 70 children and young people – at the same time as achieving life-changing qualifications. Julie says she’s really enjoyed the experience of fostering and is always delighted to see the difference in the children as the placements progress: “Being a parent isn’t easy but being a foster carer is like being a parent and then some. “If you like children, go for it. It gives you a real buzz to see how the children have come along.” While fostering, Julie also managed to achieve a Health and Social Care NVQ Level 3 in working with children and young people. Helping her was the fact that she always knew she wanted to look after or work with children and through fostering she was able to accomplish both of her ambitions. The couple have seen four of their fostering placements move onto adoption, giving them the opportunity to provide
the adopters with a full run-down about the children – including what foods they enjoy, what time they get up and what books they like to read. They say they have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the whole process through. Julie explains what she sees as the benefits of fostering through the example of one little boy her husband and her looked after: “He is now more confident and has grown to express himself. He has also really improved his core strength to the extent where he doesn’t need to see an occupational therapist any more.” Throughout their times as foster carers, the couple have seen many children with challenging behaviour come into their home with a lack of routine or boundaries. They are always delighted to see the difference they have made to the children’s lives. Rob and Julie didn’t know anything about fostering at first – only that they had a spare room and wanted to help children who needed a home. 70 children later and they still hope to continue fostering as long as they can, as do their two grown-up children. To find out more about fostering and adoption, call Stockton Council’s Child Placement Team on (01642) 526218, email child.placement@stockton.gov.uk or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering or www.stockton.gov.uk/adoption
Secondary school places for 2012 If your child is going into Y6 in September, you may wish to talk to our Choice Adviser. Do you know you’ll have to apply for a place in secondary school for the following year? If you need independent and impartial advice on secondary schools, school preferences and the likelihood of you getting a place at your preferred school, Jamila Khalid may be able to help. To contact her, call (01642) 526603 or email Jamila.khalid@stockton.gov.uk
Supporting parents Stockton United For Change, the parent-led action group for parents and carers of young people with complex or additional needs, has a loud say in shaping local services. The group is planning a drop-in information day in September (date to be arranged) in the George Hardwick Foundation onestop shop in Stockton’s Wellington Square. To find out more or become involved in the group call 07935 447375, email stocktonunitedforchange@ gmail.com or visit their Facebook page Sufc Stockton.
SNAPS nets the net Special Needs Activities with Parents Support – better known as SNAPS – is a local parent-led community group offering activities and support to families across the Tees Valley. Now SNAPS has a website of it’s very own at www.snapsteesvalley.co.uk giving details of out-ofschool and holiday family activities as well as practical and emotional support for parents and carers. There’s a fun Sunday swim at Splash for all ages up to 25 years from 3.30-4.30pm, there are coffee mornings and pre-school groups and every Monday there’s soft play at Funhouse at the Horse and Jockey pub Stockton. The Forum’s re-opening in Billingham will mean more fun activities such as ice skating, a play barn and family swimming. For details call Ruth Benson on (01642) 530292 or email r.benson4@ntlworld.com
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
Have child will travel Young people across the Borough are learning all about the travel trade with everything from road safety to independent travel in the new Independent Travel Training Centre.
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Go Mary!
Aiming High for Disabled Children is funding the project.
Based in the Stockton-on-Tees First Federation at Abbey Hill School and Technology College, Hardwick, it offers disabled young people the opportunity to develop or learn independent travel training skills. Primary age children can also take part in road safety and cycling courses there. Being able to travel independently considerably improves a young person’s opportunities in education, leisure and work. Their confidence and self-esteem grows, in turn improving mental health. The Centre uses the road structure already on the school site with features in the layout you might find on our roads such as traffic lights. A school in North Tyneside which has already developed an independent travel centre has also provided advice and support and staff go through a training process themselves.
Pictured Back left to right Umayr Mahmood and Kadyjah Ahmed. On crossing Chantelle Crane and Sophie Gray, right back Robert Enright and Ray King Travel Trainer
Lucky 13s Funding from the Tees Valley Community Foundation has set up Stockton Rangers football team nicely for the new season.
Breaking the ice Stockton’s foster families, and the children they look after, came together to celebrate the role they play in children’s lives when the Council invited them to try out Billingham Forum’s newly-refurbished ice rink before its official opening.
The team, which plays at Grangefield Youth and Community Centre and is part of the Teesside Junior Football Alliance in a small under-13s league, is looking for friendlies with other under-13s over the summer, as well as team sponsors. To find out more about the Teesside Junior Football Alliance http://www.tjfa. co.uk
Pictured is Jane Humphreys, the Council’s Corporate Director of Children, Education and Social Care presenting six-year-old Molly McDermott, the birth child of foster carers, with her framed winning design in a competition to draw a poster promoting fostering and adoption. To find out more about fostering, call the Child Placement Team on (01642) 526218 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ fostering or www.stockton.gov.uk/adoption
It’s smiles all round for the Stockton Rangers
11-year-old Billingham youngster Mary Johnson (pictured) is definitely making an impression in the fast and furious Olympic sport of BMX racing. A member of the North East BMX club and Tees Active Sports Academy, she recently competed in the Midland Summer Series in Mansfield, taking gold in the final after winning all three qualifying races. Mary, a pupil at Priors Mill School in Billingham, used the race as a warm-up for the BMX National Series in which she finished third in the country last year, also taking second in the British Championships. The talented youngster began her National Series season in Peterborough in May, moving on to the UEC European Championships at Birmingham against the best in Europe in June. With the increasing number of participants in the sport and tracks throughout the country, Mary is definitely a rider to keep an eye on for the future. To find out more about Tees Active Sports Academy, call Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772.
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Children and Young People
Tree House is the tops
In tune with nature: Pupils from Stockton’s Rosebrook Primary School embarked on an audio exploration and discovery of nature and RSPB Saltholme when Year 5 pupils worked with sound artist Dominic Nelson-Ashley on the exciting environmental arts project Green TV. Managed by Tees Valley Arts with Heritage Lottery funding, Green TV sees artists work alongside wildlife officers and teachers on exciting arts-based activities engaging school pupils with local wildlife and heritage. To find out more visit www. teesvalleyarts.org.uk/greentv.html
Talented Teessider Beth Bryan, 18, is on a high after returning home to Stockton with a gold medal from her Great Britain debut at the Munich Junior International Regatta. Tees Rowing Club and Tees Active Sports Academy member Beth (pictured) was part of the victorious women’s quadruple sculls team with Lucy Burgess, Ellen Thomas and Katie Bartlett, competing against teams from Poland, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Finland and Germany in the final.
training on the River Tees through the winter months all worthwhile.” To find out more on Tees Active Sports Academy call Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772 or visit www. teesactive.co.uk
Children with disabilities can enjoy the exciting new Tree House Saturday Club while their parents relax. Organised by Stockton Parent Support (SPS) at Elm Tree Community Centre, it offers 5–25 year olds activities such as zumba, music, arts, crafts, drama, disco and games, while parents can enjoy holistic therapies and hair styling.
The club costs £2 per hour or £10 all day, with under-5s limited to two hours stay. SPS also arranges afterschool and holiday activities. For details call Jemma on (01642) 674238 or email at jemmasps@yahoo.co.uk
Five activity rooms offer different activities for young people to pick’n’mix entertainment, socialising and personal development.
Young people can get on trax A unique new coaching programme.is helping young people across the Tees Valley transform their lives. SureTrax, based in Stockton’s Yarm Lane, delivers training based on established sales and business processes. It helps young people take control and realise their potential by being organised, securing an interview and continue developing. Since December, SureTrax has been helping young people compete for jobs, college, university and
training places, sponsored apprenticeships and self employment. SuretTrax CEO and coach Tony Osborne said: “Around 80 per cent of opportunities are never advertised. Our activity- and action-based programme provides young people with the tools and confidence to access this ‘hidden market’.” The Council’s Enterprise Team is providing SureTrax with guidance and support. For details of SureTrax, call (01642) 909470 or 07989 262988, email enquiries@ suretrax.org.uk or visit www.suretrax.org.uk
Trailing the Poles by three seconds with 500m to go, the British crew overhauled their rivals to take gold. Coached by James Harris, Beth is part of the Siemens World Class Start programme. “The whole experience in Germany was fantastic and the race itself was really exciting and it was great to storm past them,” she said. “It made the hard
£2 million science block opens: Students at Stockton Sixth Form College are benefiting from a brand new science and IT block (pictured). Professor Christopher Higgins, Vice Chancellor of Durham University, opened the energy-efficient two-storey building in June. The number of science and maths students at the college has doubled in the last three years.
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
Science students’ success
Golden weekend Four local athletes had a successful weekend in May competing at the North Eastern Counties Athletic Association Track and Field Championships held at Gateshead International stadium.
Lucy Martin and Dominic Loraine (pictured), Year 12 students at Conyers School, Yarm, have won a University of Birmingham national competition, titled ‘A Casade of Physics in and from Particle Physics Research’. Lucy and Dominic’s winning entry was a short video titled “What’s inside an atom” is aimed at Year 7 to 9 students. The University has invited the pair to attend a presentation in Birmingham, where they will receive a cheque towards a visit to the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, Switzerland.
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Gateshead
Chloe Loredo (pictured below) from Stockton and a member of New Maske Harriers and Tees Active Sports Academy celebrated a season’s first track outing with gold in both the under-17 800m and 1,500m.
Pupils’ paces: 24 pupils from St Michael’s RC School in
Billingham took part in a Teesside University study on the effects of high intensity exercise on adolescents. Led by PhD student Katy Taylor in a partnership between the school, Teesside University and Tees Active, the Year 9 pupils each did 15 minutes of high-intensity exercise wearing heart rate monitors three times a week over ten weeks, involving boxing, football and basketball and ‘Exergaming’ (pictured), a virtual reality boxing game developed by Dr Iain Spears of the University. The school hopes to continue working with the university in the future.
Starting them young:
SPACE2 is a new gym which introduces youngsters like 9-year-old Jessica McCalay (pictured) to exercise from as early as eight weeks old. SPACE2 member Jessica recently won the National Tumbling competition in Stoke on Trent and now holds the British title. The not-for-profit Stainsby School of Gymnastics recently relocated to the new SPACE2 gym on Limeoak Way, off Portrack Lane. Here, its qualified staff and coaches offer safe, friendly classes for
parents and toddlers, preschool as well as recreational and competitive sessions in gymnastics, street dance and fitness classes – and even gymnastic parties. For details call Charlotte Wilkinson on 07917 878954.
Her coach, David Lowes, said: “We’ve only been training together for around a month and it’s been a matter of righting a few wrongs in her training programme and instilling some new beliefs and giving her some challenges. I’m sure by the end of the season she’ll meet all my goals.” Sprint duo Rachel Highfield (pictured, top right) from Thornaby and Christian Carson (pictured) from Billingham, both members of
AC and Tees Active Sports Academy, continued their impressive early season form with Rachel winning both the women’s under-17 100m and 200m, the former in a new personal best of 12.33. Christian led the field home in the men’s under-20 200m and took silver in the 100m in a new personal best of 10.93. A delighted Rachel said: “It was great to lower my personal best in the 100m as the conditions were quite difficult with blustery winds. My training has been going well and I’m feeling strong.” She aims to peak for the English Schools Championships in July. Les Richards from York AC and Tees Active Sports Academy completed the golden weekend with a shot putt win of 16.68m.
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Community Safety
A boatload of advice
Your time can help cut crime Crimes by others affect everyone’s lives to some degree – even less serious crimes and anti-social behaviour can escalate into something more serious where the actions of a few can affect the majority. In the past, Magistrates have sentenced most defendants appearing in Court for less serious criminal matters to a fine or a discharge, perhaps paying compensation, then sending them on their way. To reduce reoffending, the Community Justice Team is taking a new approach by challenging perpetrators in Court to try and pinpoint exactly why they committed the offence, then sending them to services to find help addressing those reasons. The team is looking for volunteers to train to do this at Teesside Magistrates’ Court, which involves talking to offenders and having the knowledge to direct them to the best place to receive help. After training by Durham Tees Valley Probation Trust, volunteers will play a key role in making our communities safer and stronger, whilst expanding their own knowledge of the criminal justice system. To find out more about what’s involved, call (01642) 230533 or, to apply online, visit: www.dtvprobation.org.uk/volunteers/
All it can take is just two to three breaths of toxic smoke to cause unconsciousness, so Cleveland Fire Brigade is urging boat owners to fit, and regularly test, smoke alarms. Across the country, the past five years have seen at least six people die in boat fires, who could have survived if their boats had working smoke alarms, while other boats may not have been destroyed. The past year has seen two fires on boats in the Teesside area. Remember: • • • • • •
Fit a suitable smoke alarm Test it regularly Never disconnect it Form an escape plan Know your location, to tell the operator in an emergency Follow the Boat Safety Scheme fire prevention advice
For boats, optical sensor alarms with push buttons and sealed batteries are recommended, with a British Standard Kitemark or LPCB Horseshoe mark. Cleveland Fire Brigade give free boat fire risk checks and advice – call (01429) 874063 for details and, for general boating fire safety, visit www.boatsafetyscheme.com/fire
In the line of fire: The Fire Brigade is also urging residents not to have garden fires, as burning garden waste can give off harmful pollutants and easily spread to threaten property and lives. Last year, fire appliances went to 541 garden fire incidents across the Cleveland area. The Brigade supports home composting and recycling but attending garden fires could mean they can’t attend life-threatening incidents elsewhere.
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
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POLICE BEAT Police in Stockton launch Operation Logic to drive down theft
Stockton residents urged to think about cycle security Recorded crime has almost halved across Stockton over the last seven years and work is continuing to drive down the number of victims this year. To assist officers in reducing crime even further, they are asking children and adults to stop attracting opportunist thieves by leaving pedal cycles lying around the streets and grassed areas. Stockton police are working hard to clamp down on offenders but are asking residents to be more careful when it comes to the safety of their personal belongings, especially as more people take to their bikes in the warmer weather. Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the Stockton area offer a bike marking facility free of charge and anyone can take their bike to be stamped by local beat officers.
Police in Stockton are launching a targeted and proactive operation to drive down incidents of theft across the District and bring perpetrators to justice. Operation Logic will be victim-focused, in that police will ensure support is given to victims and that the numbers of victims are reduced by raising awareness of how people can protect themselves and their belongings. Officers will be carrying out extra patrols and will be working alongside Stockton Borough Council’s Enforcement Team as well as other partner agencies. High crime causers will be spoken to and police will be linking in with scrap metal dealers in the town about the operation and how they can help. Acting Chief Inspector Andy Fox said: “Operation Logic aims to address the problems associated with theft across Stockton and make a stand against thieves who see it as a victimless crime. “We do need support from the people of Stockton. If they see something suspicious then we need them to ring us. If they see someone pushing a wheelbarrow full of metal down the street, give the police a call.”
DS Chris Barker, from Stockton’s Priority Crime Team, said: “Becoming a victim of bicycle theft can be completely avoidable if people secure their bikes and don’t tempt thieves by leaving them unattended. “There are a lot of children in particular who may go into a shop or play in a park and leave their bike on the ground in full view of passers by, with no security whatsoever. “We are working on bringing perpetrators to justice, crime is low in Stockton, but we will not become complacent and as always need ongoing assistance from local communities.”
Contact your Neighbourhood Police Officer on (01642) 302930
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Health and Wellbeing
Community health needs To make sure the health needs of the local community are catered for in the years ahead, partners across the Borough work together to plan what’s important for Stockton. Leading this plan, called the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA), are the local NHS Primary Care Trust and the Council, with further input from local communities and voluntary groups to ensure health services provided now and in the future reflect their views. To help shape these, the JSNA covers areas such as tackling obesity, teenage pregnancy and childhood health, in order to reduce health inequalities and ensure care is provided in proportion to need – no matter who you are or where you live in the Borough. The JSNA document’s 16 sections look at, among other things, population groups and lifestyle. Some sections compare Stockton with other areas, looking at the effect of factors such as poverty on health.
An expanded online JSNA will feature 20 additional topics, such as cancer and heart disease, and will also enable a greater focus on some more vulnerable groups. An experienced leader in each topic area will summarise issues from a range of sources, with information from partners helping develop each section to ensure their assessment is comprehensive. Government changes to the way health services are delivered nationally will also mean different arrangements in Stockton. To ensure any changes benefit the Borough overall, Stockton is establishing a Health and Wellbeing Partnership to support work in this field and ensure it meets residents’ needs. Expected to include a range of health, Council and community representatives, anyone who may be interested in providing information on their health and wellbeing issues should should contact Ruth Hill on (01642) 352354 or email ruth. hill@northteespct.nhs.uk
Paddle your way to fitness Cameron Diaz does it, Lewis Hamilton does it, Rihanna and Matt Damon both do it, and now paddleboarding is hitting the River Tees. Far different from going to the gym, paddleboarding is a great way to explore our beautiful river and a really effective core muscle workout. Joe Thwaites runs paddleboard company Boardskillz, which is rolling out a Paddle Fit programme from Yarm and the Tees Barrage offering taster sessions then 6-week courses.
Sorry - it’s no excuse
Joe said: “Participants interact with each other on the water, completely de-stressing but, at the same time, unconsciously strengthening their core muscle groups and improving their posture and balance.” For details, visit www. boardskillz.co.uk or call Joe on 0191 258 1499 or 07779 127230.
The part played by alcohol in fuelling domestic violence is at the heart of a campaign by Think B4U Drink. Statistics show alcohol is related to nearly half of domestic violence incidents. But there is never an excuse for domestic violence and there is simply no justification for saying “sorry love, I was drunk”. And many victims of domestic violence are clear about the effect it can have on families. Children can often witness violence at home, which can have a deep and lasting effect on them even though they may not have suffered physical injury. Think B4U Drink, a partnership between Stockton Council, Cleveland Police and NHS Stockton on Tees, has commissioned a range of posters and other publicity to draw people’s attention to a range of alcohol-related dangers.
Another theme of the campaign is targeted at clubbers, highlighting some of the dangers they could face if they drink too much on a night out. Beer mats designed to look like ‘sat navs’ are helping raise awareness of ways of getting home safely and using licensed taxis. With a humorous edge, separate designs highlight the dangers which may face men and women. • Earlier in the summer, Think B4U Drink worked with a group of schools to carry out a targeted campaign to show young people that under-age drinking isn’t something they ‘have to do because everyone else does it’.
The move followed research amongst young people which found less young people want to get drunk than many people believe. The survey found 66 percent of Year 10 pupils (14 and 15-year-olds) think binge drinking is always a bad thing – a message carried on one of the posters in local schools and youth facilities.
Let’s get moving! A new website has been launched by NHS Stockton on Tees to promote exercise activities around the Borough - www.letsgetmoving.org.uk This one-stop website is packed with information about individual and group exercise activities for residents of the borough of Stockton-on-Tees. www.letsgetmoving.org.uk has all you need to get you off the couch and on the road to a healthier lifestyle. Want to do some simple exercises at home? This will help you get started. Want to run in a 5k race? There’s an easy to follow guide. In fact, there’s lots of handy guides - from making your weekly shop healthier to helping you cut down on your alcohol. Your healthier lifestyle can start today so - Let’s Get Moving!
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
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Environment and Housing
Nuisance noise
A good buy If you think buying a home is out of your reach, think again.
Picture: (l–r) Stockton Council’s Environmental Health Officer Sarah Wolleter with Paul Raffique, Chair of Yarm Pub Watch, Council Environmental Health Officer Jonathan Stott and Sergeant Stephen Williams-Reader of Stockton Police.
Noise – in any shape or form – can be a nuisance, whether it’s loud voices, loud music or loud animals such as barking dogs. This year’s Noise Action Week saw the launch of a new multi-agency effort between the Police Licensing Unit, Stockton Council’s Environmental Health Unit, publicans, landlords and breweries throughout Stockton. The aim was to work together to reduce noise and public nuisance to help improve the lives of local residents.
Posters, beer mats and presentations at Stockton Pub Watch meetings highlighted publications’ role in helping keep noise from music and customers to a minimum.Patrols by the Council’s enforcement officers are now operating longer and for no extra cost. As Stockton News went to print officers had handled around 100 additional noise complaints as a result of the changes.To report anti-social behaviour in the Borough call (01642) 607943 or, for other neighbourhood enforcement services including noise complaints, call (01642) 528439.
Calling all landlords! Landlords with properties in the Borough can join a free scheme to find out the tenancy history of prospective tenants – including those who have caused anti social behaviour in the past. The Council’s Landlord Liaison Scheme can help landlords make informed decisions about prospective tenants. It can identify the past three years of prospective tenants’ housing history and identify previous rent arrears, breaches of tenancy agreements. The service will check references and it works with the Council’s Anti Social Behaviour team to identify
any incidents in Stockton and surrounding areas. Not only does it assist landlords by preventing problem tenants from moving freely around the Borough, it is also valuable in tackling anti social behaviour. Some of the 408 members have just one property, others many more, and the more landlords who use the scheme, the more successful it will be. In the first three months of 2011, the Council dealt with 986 references – 200 more than the same period last year and a great way of curbing on anti social tenants. For details, call the Landlord Liaison team on (01642) 527620 or email landlordliaison@stockton. gov.uk
Time2Buy, a consortium which includes Stockton Council, is helping hundreds of people into affordable homeownership across Stockton, the Tees Valley and County Durham. Time2Buy, which also consists of Fabrick Housing Group, Housing Hartlepool and Endeavour Housing Association, offers a range of affordable home ownership options on a variety of different developments – including equity loan schemes, shared ownership and rent-to-buy. Since 2009, Time2Buy has helped almost 200 Stockton residents find a home of their own. As the first point of contact for anyone interested in HomeBuy schemes, it helps first-time buyers and those re-entering the housing market onto the property ladder.
you can afford longer-term home ownership. They’ll explain the range of schemes available, who is eligible to buy a property and how to apply. The Time2Buy website – www.time2buy.org. uk – explains choices within your means and searches for available properties where you want to live, or built by a developer of your choice. To find out more, call 0845 604 2942. • It’s hoped the area will benefit from further funding for a new equity loan scheme, FirstBuy, announced in the last budget. FirstBuy is expected to help around 10,000 people nationwide buy a new property over the next two years. As Stockton News went to press, Time2Buy awaited details of sites for the scheme – visit www. time2buy.org.uk for the latest information.
If you apply, the team first establishes whether you meet eligibility criteria, then assesses your financial circumstances to ensure
Tristar’s home improvements: Tristar Homes will be
driving home a major home improvement programme with a £140 million investment plan – its biggest ever – to upgrade its properties, with kitchen, bathroom and heating system replacements as well as the installation of new windows and doors. For details visit www.tristarhomes.co.uk
Trouble paying your mortgage? If you are a homeowner and struggling with finances, a free Council service could help. If redundancy, relationship breakdown, rising mortgage payments or something similar has changed your circumstances, you don’t have to go through it alone.
The Housing Options service offers information and guidance to all homeowners, regardless of income, to help maximise your income and reduce outgoing costs to help with court procedures. To find out more call at Stratford House, 11–12 Ramsgate, Stockton, call (01642) 528389, email housing.options@ stockton.gov.uk or visit the Housing Options page at www.stockton.gov.uk
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Affordable homes in Stockton You could live in your own, brand new home from just £65.22 per week in a new development, thanks to a scheme by Dunelm Homes to get people on the first rung of the property ladder. Not only that, but the Nursery Gardens scheme in Stockton includes a free, designer choice package on your fridge freezer, washing machine, carpets and curtains, flat screen HDTV and turfing to your rear garden! Nursery Gardens, in the town’s Parkfield area, is progressing apace with developers building more than 100 new homes with prices from £99,995. A new show home opened in June. Led by Dunelm Homes and Tees Valley Housing, with support from Stockton Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, a total of 110 houses will bring 41 homes for sale through Dunelm. These feature new designs from its ‘Cathedral’ range
including the Ely, Norwich, Lincoln, Ripon and York. Changes to the £16m scheme include construction of six bungalows for rent, ideally suited for older people, and fewer three-storey homes. Three- and four-bedroom homes will also be available through shared ownership or the newer option of ‘rent now, buy later’ through Tees Valley Housing. Martin Hawthorne of Fabrick, the parent company of Tees Valley Housing, said: “Tees Valley Housing already has residents happily occupying homes at Nursery Gardens. We’re delighted to see the development progressing and further homes created to meet the needs and aspirations of the community.” For details of the scheme, call the Sales Centre on Thursdays – Mondays, 10am-5pm, on 07813 569 159 or email enquiries@dunelmhomes.co.uk
Examples of what’s on offer at Nursery Gardens.
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Environment and Housing
New housing across Stockton Borough – let us have your views An ever-growing population with changing needs always needs new housing. From 2021 to 2028, some 2,800 new homes will need to be built in the Borough.
Possible sites
We’re asking for your views on where they should be. Before any decision is made we want to hear from you. The Council has identified various sites across the Borough which could be suitable for housing. Possibilities include spreading the new houses among several of these sites or concentrating them on a small number. A simple consultation document outlines the proposed sites, explains the pros and cons at each and asks you to comment on which you think are the most suitable. Carol Straughan, the Council’s Head of Planning, said: “These new houses need to be built but it’s essential for the Council to have an established plan of preferred locations. The best way to do this is with your views. “We have an accepted plan for development in the Borough but changing economic circumstances mean we need to look at it again. We need to make sure we have suitable sites for new homes to give local people and developers certainty about the future. “If we don’t have an accepted plan, clearly detailing our preferred sites, private housing developers will find it easier to obtain planning permission to build properties in other parts of the Borough less suited to new housing. For a copy of the consultation questionnaire, simply call (01642) 526050, email planningforhousing@ stockton.gov.uk or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ planningforhousing
Saying it with flowers Stockton Council would like to thank all the volunteers, householders and businesses who made sure the Borough shone in the spring sunshine when the Northumbria in Bloom judges visited. So many people did their bit to keep the Borough blooming through tree planting, community litter picks, hanging basket workshops and school gardening lessons. Children from Durham Lane Primary School’s Year 6 Eco Team (pictured) helped by litter picking and tidying up around their local shops on Durham Lane. Support like this helped Stockton win Best City for the seventh year running in last year’s Northumbria in Bloom competition – which resulted in us again representing the region in the Britain in Bloom finals, for 2011.
Judges will inspect the Borough during the summer before announcing the results in September. To learn how you can get involved please email Debbie.mcgough@stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 524498.
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Happy Birthday Splash
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Take to the Triathlon Put a date in your diary for Stockton’s Triathlon on 22 August, all based around our fantastic riverside. More and more people are taking part every year and doubled in 2010, so there’s every prospect of a bigger field yet again – and you don’t have to be a super athlete to take part.
After celebrating its tenth birthday in May, Stockton’s Splash held a pool party and other activities on 10 June. Splash Assistant Manager Diane Wilson said: “Splash opened its doors to the public in 2001 and, ten years later, we’re delighted to be celebrating our birthday. Since opening, we have always taken pride in providing state-of-the-art leisure facilities for the entire community and recently extended to include a multi-activity sports hall and two-storey gym.”
They took the challenge Yes they did – and gained a whole lot from it! 74 people took part in Stockton’s fourth Six Book Challenge, which involves learners taking part in the Skills for Life scheme where they read six books of their choice between January and May, recording their thoughts on each in a diary.
alike gave talks, the achievers received certificates – their first, for some – and vying for the chance to win a trip to London for two, courtesy of Costa Coffee. During the challenge, eight groups met at libraries and other venues across the Borough.
Run by the Council’s Tees Achieve and library services, participants in this year’s challenge were 35 per cent up on last year.
One learner, Pauline Jackson (pictured), has been reading with her young son for the first time, while another gained the confidence to speak to her class about what she’d been reading.
At a recent ceremony to celebrate their tremendous achievements, tutors and learners
To find out more about the reading challenge, call Claire Pratt on (01642) 528044.
There are three separate races, with one in particular – the mini-tri – aimed at novices or first timers. This comprises a 260m swim Splash pool, then straight outside to collect your bike for three laps of the road circuit (all closed to traffic) for 13k of cycling and finally a 2.8k run taking in the Millennium and Infinity Bridges before finishing at the riverside event village. The afternoon races for more experienced participants are all based around the riverside, with the swim in the Tees between the Princess of Wales and Millennium Bridges – if you’re a reasonable swimmer, have access to a wetsuit you can swim in and are up for a challenge, then why not? The Sprint Race is a 750m swim, 20k cycle and 5k run. The Standard Distance race is over the Olympic distances, a 1,500m swim, 40k cycle and 10k run. Run over a rarelyfound, closed road circuit in front of large crowds and with an attractive prize, it is sure to attract top quality triathletes from around the country. To see last year’s Triathlon search Youtube with ‘Stockton Triathlon’ and, to enter this year’s events, visit www.trihard.co.uk
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Try it - on the Tees
Fancy a go in a hovercraft? Or sailing, canoeing or waterskiing? Well, your chance could be on its way, at this year’s Take To The Tees festival, on and around the River Tees from August 21 to 28. Take To The Tees is all about having a go – at something new, or something you haven’t done for a while. Whatever you choose, this is your opportunity to try ‘taster’ sessions of more than a dozen sports on and around the water for all abilities. Events range from white-knuckle rides such as waterskiing or the Thundercats powerboats to something less demanding but still just as much fun. Those looking for an adrenaline rush can race round the Tees on a Thundercat boat, try out a hovercraft or ride a powerboat to Teesmouth and back – definitely not for the feinthearted. There are sessions in rowing, sailing and paddleboarding (described on page 20), plus wheelyboats, specially designed to give wheelchair users and less able people the opportunity to get afloat on the river. Whatever you choose, you’ll be under the watchful eye of a qualified instructor and be issued with all the safety and other equipment you need. Sessions vary from just 10 minutes to a couple of hours or more, depending on the activity and must be pre-booked.
In fact, the earlier you book – using the Arc online website www.arconline. co.uk – the better your chance of finding a place on the session you most prefer.
“The idea behind Take to the Tees is to encourage people to try out an activity they have never done before” Most events are based at the Tees Barrage or various points on Stockton Riverside. Reuben Kench, Head of Culture and Leisure for Stockton Council, said: “The idea behind Take to the Tees is to encourage people to try out an activity they have never done before or would like to know more about. “The River Tees is a wonderful natural resource and we want to encourage as many people as possible to make use of it to get fit, be active and have fun. “Hopefully, many people will then feel motivated to take part in activities on a regular basis. There really should be something to appeal to everyone here and, who knows, we might even inspire a future Olympic champion? “The message is - don’t wait, book early. It’s first come, first served for all the activities, so they are sure to sell out quickly.
“But Take To The Tees is not only about opportunities to participate – it also takes in two spectacular spectator events in the Stockton Triathlon and the River Rat Race. “Whether you come to join in, to support your friends or family, or to watch the two major race events, this is a great opportunity to find out how much the River Tees can offer.” Take to the Tees begins on Sunday 21 August with the Stockton Triathlon (see page 25 and inside front cover), in which 400 competitors will swim, cycle and run their way around the river and its banks - more than 80 of them in a ‘mini’ triathlon for beginners. The watersports activity taster sessions run from Monday 22 to Saturday 27 August. The festival closes with the River Rat Race, in which 700 hardy souls will splash, jump, wade, climb and run around a unique 10 kilometre course on Sunday 28 August (see pages 24 & 35).
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Switch on the super troupers!
Visitors to Billingham’s Forum Theatre will certainly see a difference to their front of house after its two-year refurbishment – and they’re in for a real treat with a variety of entertainment, music and shows to suit all tastes. You can now book online for the first time, bringing fuller details, images and narratives on the shows direct to see for yourself exactly what’s on offer – see below for details. A flavour of things to come includes the internationally acclaimed production of ‘Shanghai’ by Cirque Du Ciel, in the UK for the very first time, on 31 August, a two-hour extravaganza of acrobatics, modern dance, original music and martial arts in a storyline adventure you’ll never forget. A phenomenal assortment of musicals ranges from ‘Over the Rainbow – The Story of Eva Cassidy’ to the all time favourites ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ and ‘Blood Brothers’.
There are musical tributes to Bon Jovi, the Stones and T Rex and nostalgic shows like ‘We’ll meet again’ and Frickley Brass Band – rated number one in the world – as well as Glenn Miller and jazz. Comedy aplenty includes home-grown Roy Chubby Brown, for those not easily offended, Scouser Freddie Starr and the ‘Vagina Monologues’ to bring a smile to your face. Christmas may seem far away but the theatre is now taking bookings for its traditional pantomime, this year featuring stars from Coronation Street and Benidorm in Cinderella. Party nights return, when you can not only book for a show and after-show disco, but also a meal. There’s a choice of two shows – ‘Back For Good – a tribute to Take That’ and ‘The Winner Takes All’ tribute to The Bee Gees and Abba. See all the latest news and information online at www. forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk or call the Box Office on (01642) 552663.
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
BIFF’s promise! Organisers of the 47th Billingham International Folklore Festival (6 – 13 August) are promising some special events and features this year.
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Heralding our history:
The local historical knowledge of Alan Betteny enthralled his audience in a recent talk at Fairfield Library as part of Local History Month. Alan’s books on our local area include “The History of the Ironworks at Norton” and “The Story of Big Ben”.
Eight of the highest quality international dance and music companies from Belarus, Costa Rica, Egypt, Georgia, Hungary, Panama, Serbia and South Korea will be visiting our shores to give us a taste of their culture. If funding allows, there may also some new contemporary music and dance introduced to the festival programme. Festival concerts, including the special opening (6 August) and closing ceremonies (14 August), take place in the Festival Arena in John Whitehead Park every afternoon and on Sunday and Friday evenings. Other evening concerts take place in Arc Stockton and Middlesbrough Theatre.
E-News, Victorian style:
The Borough’s libraries have launched a 19th Century Newspapers Online service. With 49 national and local newspapers and more than 2,000,000 pages to search electronically, you can bring the 19th Century back to life in any of the Borough’s libraries or in the comfort of your own home, by visiting www.stockton. gov.uk/library and clicking on the link.
Fringe events around the Festival include the UNCLE BIFF Children’s Club (50p per session per child) and the International Youth Dance workshop at Northfield School and Sports College, Marsh House Avenue, Billingham. For details and a programme leaflet call (01642) 553220, visit www.billinghamfestival. co.uk or call at the Festival Box Office (near the central ramp in the town centre). You can also book your tickets online at www. billinghamfestival.co.uk/store or, for theatre performances, call in to Middlesbrough Theatre and Arc Stockton.
Downloads are on the up!
Pictured Panama, Costa Rica and a close up of the dancing feet from Georgia
Infinity flames: Fountains of flames flew over the River Tees as the Infinity Bridge was illuminated as part of the Infinity Festival, a wonderful celebration of the historic river and stunning Infinity Bridge in May. Families enjoyed the breathtaking spectacle as musicians led a procession across the bridge, local people also joining in carrying lanterns.
Readers are really taking to downloading books to read on their E-Readers. This latest idea from the Council’s libraries is proving a big hit, with more than 1,000 items downloaded since its launch in March this year. You can choose from a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, children’s titles and books on health and wellbeing – all from the comfort of your own home. The service is free to all the Borough’s library members, you just need your library card number and PIN. For details visit http://e-stockton. lib.overdrive.com – no fees, no fines, no fuss!
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It’s showtime! Vela sponsors Weekender Stockton Summer Show is one of the highlights on the Borough’s summer entertainment calendar and this year is no exception, as Stockton Council presents a host of family fun. The Summer Show returns to the beautiful surroundings of Preston Park this year with three days of thrills and spills from 27 – 29 August. Attractions include the fast moving spectacular Festival Circus with trapeze and juggling skills to amaze plus,
of course, circus favourites the clowns. Falconry displays will show these amazing birds close up and in flight, there are demonstrations of sheep shearing, live music and much more.
There are craft and food stalls to explore, a funfair, trade stands, side shows including Punch and Judy and a bar. With free parking and entrance costing just £3.50 for adults and £2.50 for children and concessions, it’s a great day out and fantastic value. For details, call (01642) 527345 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
Stockton’s largest social housing provider, the Vela Group is this year’s proud headline sponsors of the region’s biggest musical festival, The Stockton Weekender. The three day Weekender (previously known as the Fringe Festival) takes place from 5-7 August with artists including Maximo Park who will headline Saturday night, Seasick Steve, Newton Faulkner and Cast along with local bands. The Vela Group which is the umbrella company for Tristar Homes and Housing Hartlepool, builds and provides new homes and provides opportunities to tenants and other residents across the region. Vela Group Chief Executive, Cath Purdy said: “We are delighted to be supporting the Stockton Weekender for the very first time this year. It is a fantastic event and with such a wide audience and appeal it is a great opportunity for us to meet with our customers and different people of all ages. Vela will be involved with the festival over the forthcoming years, not only will this support the local economy but it will also go towards achieving our vision of shaping places, creating communities and changing lives.” Keep an eye out at the festival for the Vela band, with a twist. To find out more visit www.tristarhomes.co.ukor www.facebook.com/Tristarhomes
Visitors enjoying last year’s Summer Show
Stockton’s culture vultures Visitor figures from two of the Borough’s leisure venues, Preston Hall Museum and Park and Arc in Dovecot Street, Stockton, show the numbers of people in Stockton enjoying entertainment and the arts are on the up. Preston Hall Museum and Park had visitors flocking to see what it has to offer. From February to April, the Museum welcomed more than 37,000 people through its doors – almost 80 per cent up on the same period in 2010. Visitors will be able to enjoy it even more when its £7 million investment programme is complete, including restoration of the Grade II listed Hall, improvements to the Victorian Street, a new jetty on the River Tees and the re-creation of the original walled garden and orchard. Live programmes clearly are a hit with visitors to Arc where visitor numbers in April reached 7,935, a massive 133 per cent more than 2010, and creative learning places reached 1,163 – a 73 per cent increase on the same period last year. To find out what’s on at Arc visit www.arconline.co.uk or call (01642) 525199.
To book Weekender tickets call (01642) 606612 or visit www.stoctktonweekender.co.uk or www.seetickets.com
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www.stockton.gov.uk
Rat Race returns Following last year’s phenomenal success, the Stockton River Rat Race returns on 28 August. Hosted by Stockton Council, the event is part of the Take to the Tees festival where people can experience activities in, on and alongside the river. Last August, almost 800 brave souls ran, jumped, swam, kayaked and climbed the 10k course alongside (and in) the River Tees between Stockton town centre, the Tees Barrage and the Newport Bridge. ‘River Rats’ can walk the plank on HM Bark Endeavour, kayak stretches and endure plenty of wet dunking episodes en route. They will be challenged to an exciting ladder climb of the mighty Newport Bridge, traverse the Infinity Bridge the hard way, and swim across the River Tees itself. Event organiser Jim Mee, of Rat Race Adventure Sports, said: “We take advantage of the location and environment with all of our events and Stockton was the first to host a River Rat
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Phenomenal fireworks
Race, as it has a great cleanwater river and surrounding landscape. The area is practically built for this sort of adventure. “All you need for the Stockton River Rat Race is a pair of trainers, some old clothes you don’t mind getting wet and muddy, a willingness to try something new and a sense of humour!” Entry is £35, which includes a race T-shirt, entertainment on the day and a pre-race warm-up by Diane Youdale, former Gladiator Jet. Tees Valley residents entering online at www. ratraceadventure.com/ riverratrace can get a £6 discount by quoting “stock6” on a first come first served basis. The entry fee includes a high performance technical T-shirt, finisher’s medal, chocolate bar at the finish and an electronic chip timer and race number. Entrants are also entitled to 15 per cent off RRP on all Rat Race Adventure Sports events, kit and training via www. ratraceadventure.com until November 30.
Looking ahead to November, Stockton will again present its annual firework spectacular on Saturday November 5, to a packed Riverside as G2 Fireworks bring the best of pyrotechnics to the town. Starting at 7.30pm, this year’s display will be linked to classic war movie themes such as the Dambusters, The
Great Escape and Apocalypse Now. Presenters from Real Radio will also be on the Riverside Stage bringing music and fun for the crowds. A fair will entertain the youngsters while food and hot drinks will help keep out the cold. Road and bridge closures will be in place – for details please check local press or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ events
Wartorn Britain: The blitz returned to part of Stockton
Some of last year’s ‘River Rats’ enjoying the course
when the Buchanan Street area was transformed for a new film, using many local people as extras. Currently undergoing regeneration, it made a perfect location for film-makers Teamworx Television and Film to recreate a World War II London street. With screenplay adapted from Charlotte Link’s best-selling novel “The Other Child”, the story tells of the flashback memories of some young London evacuees to North Yorkshire.
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Strong Communities
My, your and our community Hundreds of people across Stockton Borough are using their spare time to make a positive impact on their communities. The My Community campaign showcases residents who are making a real difference and encourages other people to do just that.
Spotlight on Roscoe Roads Residents Group
Roscoe Road residents aren’t the only ones making an outstanding contribution to their community. This year’s North East Voluntary and Community Sector Awards saw many Borough residents recognised for their efforts.
Val and Jim Scollen joined Roscoe Road Residents’ Group seven and a half years ago. Since then, the couple have worked tirelessly with other local residents to bring derelict land on Roscoe Road, Billingham, back to life. Jim said: “Fly-tipping was becoming a problem, so we decided we had to do something to ensure the land was put to good use. “It has taken a lot of hard work and persistence but it has definitely been worth it and we are very proud of what we’ve achieved.” The Residents’ Group worked closely with local businesses and other agencies to create a Multi-Use Games Area, or ‘MUGA’. The MUGA was built by Safe and Sound Playgrounds after the Residents’ Group secured £110,000 from Impetus, with a further £11,000 from the Billingham Partnership, Johnson Matthey and Tees Valley Housing Ltd and management support from Avecia. Roscoe Road residents are also working with Groundwork North East to develop a nature walk and children from Billingham South Community Primary and High Clarence Primary schools are drawing pictures for display on boards at the start and finish of the walk, ready for its grand opening in September. Chair of the group, Val Scollen, said: “It’s fantastic to see the activity area come to fruition and we’re looking forward to seeing the completion of the nature walk. “The MUGA gives young people a place to use in their spare time and all the fly-tipping has now stopped. “Recently we saw some wheelchair users playing basketball – we’d love to hear from them to find out what they think of the facility.” To find out more about the Roscoe Road Residents’ Group, email v.scollen@btinternet.com
Stockton Council won the North East Minna Ireland from NEEP (left) presenting the Empowerment award to Lesley King from Stockton Council.) Partnership ‘Empowering Communities’ category, for its continuing support for voluntary and community organisations. Thrive, a group established to encourage hard-to-reach households which experience high-interest debt to challenge doorstep lenders and loan sharks, won the ‘Most Inspiring Campaign’ category. Meanwhile, Jodie Hinds won ‘Volunteer of the Year’ for mentoring with Five Lamps, helping habitual offenders challenge their behaviour. He can relate to them, as he spent much of his life between 15 and 31 in institutions and prisons but has turned his life around and now has a host of qualifications including counselling. Graeme Oram, Chief Executive of Five Lamps was also recognised in the ‘Outstanding Leadership’ category. Graeme has doubled the number of staff to 90 in the last year, helped Five Lamps secure contracts to deliver public services and delivered 10,000 personal loans in 2010-11. And 80-year-old George Glass, the Chairman and founder of BlindVoice UK, won the Special Award for ‘Inspiring Individual’. BlindVoice UK was launched informally in 1997 when a group of like-minded and visually impaired people met. To find out more about the award winners visit www.vonne. org.uk/awards Nominations are now open for the Catalyst Achievement Awards, which will celebrate the success of the third sector in Stockton-on-Tees – visit www.catalyststockton.org for details. To find out about volunteering and community engagement opportunities in Stockton Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ mycommunity or contact Stockton Council’s Partnerships and Engagement Team on (01642) 526032.
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Recognised for her work Gill Elgey, an Assistant Care Co-ordinator with Stockton Council, recently received a certificate from Cleveland Police in their awards for Neighbourhood Supporting Volunteer of the year. As a volunteer with the Police, Gill helps work out duty rotas and crime statistics, takes phone calls from local people and manages incoming jobs. Sergeant Brenda Sharpe said: “I can’t speak highly enough of Gill – she works really hard, giving up her own time to play an invaluable role in working with us for the benefit of the local community.”
90th Anniversary: A great day out was had by all in June
as the Stockton and Yarm District of the Royal British Legion celebrated its 90th anniversary in Ropner Park. With parades, a drumhead service, historic vehicles and live music on the bandstand, plus lots of children’s activities, it was a day to enjoy and remember.
Be the voice for your area Nominations are open for representatives of local community and voluntary organisations to serve on the Stockton Renaissance Partnership and Local Area Partnership boards, which work to promote economic, environmental and social well-being for the Borough.
Gill is pictured with Sean Price, Chief Constable of Cleveland Police.
Involvement in these bodies offers local people an opportunity to influence the way services are provided in their area. All boards consist of representatives from all sectors. Stockton Residents & Community Groups Association (SRCGA) assists with the elections for these boards and offers support and information to local organisations or individuals interested in becoming involved. To find out more or how you could become involved in a community group call (01642) 733912 or email james. hadman@srcga.com or tracy.roberts@srcga.com or visit www. srcga.co.uk
A right royal do! Pictured are some of the members of 1st Hartburn Sea Scouts who made a special visit to see the Royal Wedding on 29 April. Last year the group was struggling and local residents Richard and Angela Fenton, and their 15 year old son Alex, are making a real difference by volunteering for the group to help increase membership. And increased it has! Since Richard and Angela became involved the Beavers and Cubs have doubled in numbers and the group is
once again vibrant. To find out more about the group call 07920 524328.
Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board 13th September, 5pm, Education Centre
Central Area Partnership Board 28th July, 4pm, Education Centre 29th September, 10am, Education Centre
Northern Area Partnership Board 5th September, 5:45pm Low Grange Community Centre, Billingham 3rd October, 5.45pm Low Grange Community Centre 7th November, 5.45pm Low Grange Community Centre
Western Area Partnership Board 25th July, 6pm Eaglescliffe Parish Hall 26th September, 6pm, Venue to be confirmed 31st October, 6pm, Venue to be confirmed
Eastern Area Partnership Board – all meetings at the Five Lamps Organisation 26th July, 9.30am 27th September, 9.30am 18th October, 5.30pm
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Keep in contact Your Council is here to help and we want to make it as easy as possible to get in touch with us. To find out what you need to know: • You can access many of our services online, 24 hours a day, along with a vast amount of other Council information, on our website at www. stockton.gov.uk • Visit our offices in person – most are open: Mon – Thurs 8.30am to 5pm Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm • For links to Twitter, Facebook, etc see www.stockton.gov.uk/ socialmedia • Call our Contact Centre – open Monday – Thursday 8am to 6pm, Friday 8am to 5.30pm, Saturday 10am to 1pm – our experts are at the end of the phone: Care For Your Area (01642) 391959 Council Tax (01642) 397108 Housing Benefits (01642) 393829 Neighbourhood Enforcment (01642) 528439 • Thornaby MultiService Centre Based in the library in the town centre offering advice about all Council services. Open Monday – Thursday 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm, excluding Bank Holidays. Saturday 10am to 1pm • Or call the Municipal Buildings main Council switchboard (01642) 393939 Mon – Thursday 8:30 am to 5:00pm Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm excluding bank holidays where you can still be directed to other services.
Your Council
All under one roof
Artists impression of the new Customer Services Centre
Making it easier for residents to access Council services is at the heart of the fantastic new Customer Service Centre being developed as part of the £1.9million refurbishment of the town’s Central Library.
entrance 16 Church Road, the back entrance of Housing Benefits, Gloucester House and Municipal Buildings will be no longer accessed by the public, although they will still be used by Council staff.
From November, the Borough’s residents will be able to call into one central point for various Council services, rather than have to visit different offices on Church Road.
As well as the opportunity to talk to staff face-to-face, the new centre will feature a new Cashiers office and an array of new customer services. These include state-of-theart self-service technology enabling people to report any problems, pay bills automatically
The Customer Services Centre in the newlyrefurbished library will deal with all customer queries, meaning offices including the front
Alongside this, the modern Central Library and new café will complete a totally customer-friendly environment.
Library’s new conference room Stockton Central Library may not yet have reopened following its £1.9 million refit – but its newlyrefurbished conference room is ready for use, giving a taste of what is to come when the new library and Customer Services Centre open later this year. With state-of-the-art multi-media technology in a bright, comfortable environment, the room holds up to 100 people and is available for all to use including trade and commercial exhibitions, local organisations and private functions. To find out more call 07917 087360 or e-mail Stockton.library@stockton. gov.uk
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Meet Members Allowances your new Mayor All councils publish their members’ allowances schemes which set out the allowances members are entitled to receive and what expenses they are able to claim. Councils also publish details of the allowances and expenses received by their members. Allowances paid to Stockton Council Members, for the period 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2011, can be accessed at www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/yourcouncillors/membersallowances or by contacting (01642) 527060.
The Gold standard
All Saints CE Secondary and Preston Primary are the Borough’s first schools to earn the new Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) – and they have achieved it at the highest possible Gold level.
esteem and improve life chances. It’s amazing what they can achieve when they feel valued, enjoy learning and are ready for the challenges of a working life.”
29 of the Borough’s schools are currently working towards the award, which recognises their work to remove barriers to participation and learning for every learner.
The new Mayor of Stockton is 52-year-old Paul Baker (pictured). Paul originally hails from Durham but made Stockton his home in the early 60s and has taken Stockton to his heart ever since. As a ward councillor of Newtown for the past 12 years Paul has taken a keen interest in local issues. A painter and decorator by trade, he has taught the trade in a variety of settings including Norton Educational workshops, the MultiPurpose Training Centre in Middlesbrough and currently teaches at Stockton Riverside College. Paul gains great satisfaction from seeing young people do well and progress and is grateful to the principal, Mr Sujinder Singh, governors and staff of the college, who all give their support to him in his role as Mayor. Very much a family man, Paul also is a keen Boro fan and, when he has the time, he enjoys walking, the theatre, family holidays and listening to music.
The IQM is awarded at 3 levels, from Bronze for schools in the early stages of their focus on inclusion to Gold for those with outstanding work to ensure no child is left behind. Vanessa Housley, who leads the scheme for the Council, said: “Inclusion means all children can benefit from educational opportunities which are liberating, raise aspiration, develop self-
Pupils from the two schools are pictured celebrating their awards.
Hefty fine for tipper: Stockton Council's Neighbourhood Enforcement team helped
catch a fly-tipper red-handed after spotting him on CCTV dumping a sofa in Billingham Town Centre then tracing his vehicle registration. In June, Teesside Magistrates fined Barry Foreman, 39, of Mason Walk, Hartlepool, £600 plus costs of £537 after he pleaded guilty to fly-tipping last August. The Council prosecutes fly tippers whenever it can – to report illegal dumping call (01642) 528439.
Tell us once – because your time matters Stockton Council is making it quicker, easier and cheaper for residents to register changes in their personal circumstances with the introduction of the ‘Tell Us Once’ programme.
means families only need contact Stockton Council’s Registration & Bereavement Services once and, with their consent, their details will be automatically shared with other relevant agencies which need to know.
Bereavement Services Manager, explains: “We recognise that, for many bereaved families, registering a death can be quite daunting, without the additional distress of having to notify other organisations.
Until now, families registering births and deaths have also had to contact different agencies to notify them of these changes, which can be complex and timeconsuming.
For many people, particularly those dealing with a bereavement, this can be a welcome relief from having to contact up to 24 separate agencies about issues ranging from Incapacity Benefit to State Pensions, Attendance Allowance and Council Tax.
“Residents signing up to the ‘Tell Us Once’ service will now make just one visit to the Council, safe in the knowledge that we’ll notify all the other agencies which need to know.”
The ‘Tell Us Once’ scheme, from the Department for Work and Pensions,
Jayne Robins, the Council’s Registration and
To find out more, call (01642) 527720 or email registrars@ stockton.gov.uk
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WARD SURGERIES July 2011 – November 2011
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)
www.stockton.gov.uk/ bishopsgarthelmtreeward 16 Aug Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 12 Sept Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 13 Sept Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 3 Oct Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 11 Oct Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 7 Nov Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 15 Nov Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm COUNCILLORS MRS JULIA CHERRETT Tel: 01642 785473 Email: julia.cherrett@stockton.gov.uk ELLIOT KENNEDY Tel: 01642 618851 Email: elliot.kennedy@stockton.gov.uk
FAIRFIELD 6:00PM – 6:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/fairfieldward No August surgery 12 Sept Fairfield Library 10 Oct Fairfield Library 14 Nov Fairfield Library COUNCILLORS MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914 BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409
GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward 18 Jul Fairfield Library 4 Aug Grays Road Institute 8 Aug Hartburn Scout Group Hut 15 Aug Fairfield Library 1 Sept Grays Road Institute 12 Sept Hartburn Scout Group Hut 19 Sept Fairfield Library 6 Oct Grays Road Institute 10 Oct Hartburn Scout Group Hut 17 Oct Fairfield Library 3 Nov Grays Road Institute 14 Nov Hartburn Scout Group Hut 21 Nov Fairfield Library COUNCILLORS CAROL CLARK Tel: 01642 675688 Email: carol.clark@stockton.gov.uk MICHAEL CLARK Tel: 01642 675688 Email: michael.clark@stockton.gov.uk
HARDWICK WARD 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward 22 Jul Hardwick Community Centre No August surgery 2 Sept Salters Lane Community Centre 16 Sept Hardwick Community Centre 30 Sept Salters Lane Community Centre 14 Oct Hardwick Community Centre 28 Oct Salters Lane Community Centre 11 Nov Hardwick Community Centre 25 Nov Salters Lane Community Centre COUNCILLORS NIGEL COOKE Tel: 01642 589442 Email: nigel.cooke@stockton.gov.uk NORMA STEPHENSON Tel: 01642 675891 Email: norma.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk
HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/hartburnward No August surgery 5 Sept Elmwood Community Centre 3 Oct Holy Trinity Rosehill CE Primary School 7 Nov Elmwood Community Centre COUNCILLORS TERRY LAING Tel: 01642 587356 Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.uk KEN LUPTON Tel: 01642 587286 Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk
NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/newtownward 22 Jul Newtown Community Resource Centre
5 Aug Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 19 Aug Newtown Community Resource Centre 2 Sept Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 16 Sept Newtown Community Resource Centre 30 Sept Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 14 Oct Newtown Community Resource Centre 28 Oct Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 11 Nov Newtown Community Resource Centre 25 Nov Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre COUNCILLORS PAUL BAKER Tel: 01642 608406 Email: paul.baker@stockton.gov.uk BOB GIBSON OBE Tel: 01642 614482 Email: robert.gibson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTHERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ northernparishesward 4 Aug Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles No September surgery 6 Oct Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles 3 Nov Wolviston Common Room COUNCILLOR JOHN GARDNER Tel: 01740 645357 Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonnorthward No August surgery 21 Sept Norton Library 12 Oct Frederick Nattrass Primary School 16 Nov Norton North Community & Resource Centre COUNCILLORS STEVE NELSON Tel: 01642 534417 Email: steve.nelson@stockton.gov.uk MRS KATH NELSON Tel: 01642 534417 Email: kathryn.nelson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON SOUTH 5:30PM – 6:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonsouthward 26 Jul Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place No August surgery 6 Sept Albany Resource Centre 20 Sept Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 4 Oct Albany Resource Centre 18 Oct Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 1 Nov Albany Resource Centre 15 Nov Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 29 Nov Albany Resource Centre COUNCILLORS BOB COOK TEL: 01642 890058 Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.uk EILEEN JOHNSON TEL: 01642 Email: eileen.johnson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward No August surgery 6 Sept Crooksbarn Primary School 4:30pm – 5:30pm The Education Centre 5:45pm – 6:45pm Glebe Community Centre 7:00pm – 8:00pm 4 Oct As above 1 Nov As above COUNCILLORS DAVID WILBURN Tel: 01642 532517 Email: david.wilburn@stockton.gov.uk NORMA WILBURN Tel: 01642 532517 Email: norma.wilburn@stockton.gov.uk
PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ parkfieldoxbridgeward
21 Jul Oxbridge Christian Fellowship No August surgery 1 Sept Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 15 Sept Oxbridge Christian Fellowship 6 Oct Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 20 Oct Oxbridge Christian Fellowship 3 Nov Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 17 Nov Oxbridge Christian Fellowship COUNCILLORS MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420 Email: mohammed.javed@stockton.gov.uk DAVID ROSE Tel: 01642 789993 Email: david.rose@stockton.gov.uk
Townscape update
ROSEWORTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward 8 Aug Kiora Hall Youth & Community Centre 12 Sept As above 10 Oct As above 14 Nov As above COUNCILLORS JIM BEALL Tel: 01642 602510 Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.uk MISS BARBARA INMAN Tel: 01642 586564 Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk
STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ stocktontowncentreward 21 Jul Victoria Community Centre 28 Jul Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre No August surgeries 1 Sept The Willows Centre 8 Sept Parkfield Community Centre 15 Sept Victoria Community Centre 22 Sept Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre 6 Oct The Willows Centre 13 Oct Parkfield Community Centre 20 Oct Victoria Community Centre 27 Oct Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre 3 Nov The Willows Centre 10 Nov Parkfield Community Centre 17 Nov Victoria Community Centre 24 Nov Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre COUNCILLOR DAVID COLEMAN Tel: 01642 673952 Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk PAUL KIRTON Tel: 01642 559331 Email: paul.kirton@stockton.gov.uk
We would like to update our readers on the Central Stockton Townscape Heritage Initiative. The Heritage Lottery Fund gave Stockton Council permission to start the Central Stockton Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) grant scheme in April which means that spending on the £3.3 million scheme can begin. Projects are being developed with building owners and complementary initiative partners and delivery will soon begin. If you would like to know more about the THI scheme please contact Elizabeth Marsh on (01642) 527824.
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WARD SURGERIES July 2011 – November 2011
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
Dropping in
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickeastward No August surgery 6 Sept All Saints C of E Secondary School 5 Oct All Saints C of E Secondary School 9 Nov All Saints C of E Secondary School Residents of Maltby & Hilton are welcome at Ingleby Barwick Ward Surgeries but if unable to attend, can request a meeting with Councillors Corr, Faulks and Kirby by appointment before Parish Council meetings. COUNCILLORS GILLIAN CORR Tel: 01642 764056 Email: gillian.corr@stockton.gov.uk KEVIN FAULKS Tel: 01642 764874 Email: kevin.faulks@stockton.gov.uk JEAN KIRBY Tel: 01642 762092 Email: jean.kirby@stockton.gov.uk
INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickwestward No August surgery 6 Sept All Saints C of E Secondary School 5 Oct All Saints C of E Secondary School 9 Nov All Saints C of E Secondary School COUNCILLORS KEN DIXON Tel: 01642 764650 Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.uk DAVID HARRINGTON Tel: 01642 764652 Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.uk ROSS PATTERSON Tel: 01642 764865 Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk
5 Sept Allensway Centre 19 Sept Eltham Crescent Community Centre 3 Oct South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 17 Oct Allensway Centre 31 Oct Eltham Crescent Community Centre 14 Nov South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 28 Nov Allensway Centre COUNCILLOR DERRICK BROWN Tel: 01642 751028 Email: derrick.brown@stockton.gov.uk
STAINSBY HILL
www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward 16 Jul Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am – 12:00 18 Aug South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 17 Sept Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am – 12:00 13 Oct South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 19 Nov Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am – 12:00 COUNCILLOR MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 602375 Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
VILLAGE 5:00PM – 6:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/villageward 18 Jul Thornaby Pavilion 15 Aug Thornaby Pavilion 19 Sept Thornaby Pavilion 17 Oct Thornaby Pavilion 21 Nov Thornaby Pavilion COUNCILLORS IAN DALGARNO Tel: 01642 882985 Email: ian.dalgarno@stockton.gov.uk MICK EDDY Tel: 01642 765919 Email: mick.eddy@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
PC Jeff Foster shows Joe Wortley the inside of the police helicopter
Pupils at two primary schools in Ingleby Barwick were delighted when Cleveland Police’s Air Support Unit and a Traffic Officer from Cleveland and Durham’s Specialist Operations Unit literally dropped in to pay them a visit!
Officers from the Air Support Unit gave a presentation to the children at Barley Fields Primary School and St Therese of Liseiux Primary School.
Stockton Schools Liaison Officer PC Alan Fish said: “This was a lovely event and a fantastic opportunity for officers to reach out to young children within the community. “It was a brilliant day for the children, parents and teachers, who thoroughly enjoyed learning about the helicopter and the unit.” The helicopter, which is based at Durham Tees Valley Airport, always remains operational during visits to all schools.
www.stockton.gov.uk/ mandalevictoriaward 27 Jul Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre 4:00pm – 5:00pm No August surgery 1 Sept Rochester Court Sheltered Housing 11:00am – 12:00 noon 8 Oct Thornaby Library 11:00am – 12:00 noon 9 Nov Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre 4:00pm – 5:00pm COUNCILLORS TINA LARGE Tel: 01642 671903 Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.uk STEVE WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176 Email: steve.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
www.stockton.gov.uk/ mandalevictoriaward 6 Aug Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 3 Sept Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 1 Oct Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 5 Nov Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road Further surgery venues to be arranged COUNCILLOR TRACEY STOTT Tel: 01642 674471 Email: tracey.stott@stockton.gov.uk
STAINSBY HILL
5:00PM – 6:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward 18 Jul Allensway Centre 1 Aug Eltham Crescent Community Centre 15 Aug South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre
Upgrading for Whinstone The £1.8 million scheme to extend and refurbish education facilities at Whinstone Primary School is under way to replace temporary classroom blocks. The first phase will see demolition of the former nursery, to be replaced with a single-storey extension linked to the main school building. The steel-framed structure will house six new classrooms, an ICT suite, practical room and a large multi-use hall. During the summer holiday period, contractors will start the next phase, stripping out and refurbishing three existing classroom areas in the main building. A new car park will complete the project, due to be finished by the end of the year.
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WARD SURGERIES July 2011 – November 2011
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamcentralward No August surgery 14 Sept Billingham Youth & Community Centre 12 Oct Billingham Youth & Community Centre 9 Nov Billingham Youth & Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS ANN McCOY Tel: 01642 535604 Email: ann.mccoy@stockton.gov.uk BARRY WOODHOUSE Tel: 01642 371638 Email: barry.woodhouse@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM EAST
It’s Carnival time! Just when we think summer is almost over, there’s still something great to look forward to – the ever-popular Billingham Carnival on September 10 and 11 (10am-6pm). Now in its 19th year, a highlight of this free weekend of family music and entertainment will be the All-England Strongman competition, with Ed Hall from Stoke (pictured) returning to defend his title as England’s Strongest Man on Sunday at 1.30pm. Kiddies Corner will offer youngsters free rides, while senior citizens can look forward to a free cuppa and biccies amongst the craft and charity stalls in the large marquee. For those with green fingers, there’s one of the North East’s best flower and veg show. This year, around 14 schools are growing their own vegetables to take part in the competition, supported by Billingham Environmental Link Programme.There’s a dog show on the Sunday (just turn up and register at 8.45am) and music from jazz bands and dance groups. A poetry book about
Billingham, produced by local schoolchildren, will be on sale in aid of the Billingham Legacy Foundation, which supports various good causes. Organisers are always looking for something different to appear at the Carnival so, if you would like to appear or you know a friend or group who might, call Roger Black with details on 078111 22956 or Kelly Brown on 07756 012989. To enter a free draw to win 15, ten or five free ride tickets for the fair, answer this question: How old will Billingham Carnival be this year? Send your answer, with your name and telephone number, by 5pm on 5 August to: Roger Black, Carnival Competition, Old Billingham Business Centre, 1 Chapel Road, Billingham TS23 1EN.
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghameastward 29 Jul New Life Family Centre 5:00pm – 5:45pm Synthonia Scout Group Hall 5:50pm – 6:30pm No August surgery 30 Sept As above 28 Oct As above 25 Nov As above COUNCILLORS MICK STOKER Tel: 01642 371641 Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.uk EVALINE CUNNINGHAM Tel: 01642 532090 Email: evaline.cunningham@stockton. gov.uk
BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamnorthward No August surgery 12 Sept High Grange Community Centre 10 Oct North Billingham Methodist Church 14 Nov High Grange Community Centre
COUNCILLORS MRS LYNNE APEDAILE Tel: 01740 645216 Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.uk COLIN LECKONBY Tel: 01642 872896 Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM NORTH
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamnorthward No August surgery 5 Sept North Billingham Methodist Church 7:00pm – 8:00pm 3 Oct High Grange Community Centre 6:30pm – 7:30pm 7 Nov North Billingham Methodist Church 7:00pm – 8:00pm COUNCILLOR RAY McCALL Tel: 01642 533407 Email: ray.mccall@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamsouthward 11 Aug Billingham Branch Library 8 Sep Billingham Branch Library 13 Oct Billingham Branch Library 10 Nov Billingham Branch Library COUNCILLOR MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717 MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782 Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamwestward 29 Jul Wolviston Court Community Centre 26 Aug As above 30 Sept As above 28 Oct As above 25 Nov As above COUNCILLORS MRS MARY WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755 MICK WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755
Twittering on... Billingham Neighbourhood Policing Team has launched its own Twitter page covering the town’s wards. It will include updates on how the team is tackling priorities in the area, what police officers have done whilst on duty and key messages to prevent people becoming victims. Inspector Andy Fox will take the Billingham Page forward. He said: “Twitter was a fairly new concept for me but, when we looked at the numbers of people you can communicate with, we quickly realised it would be ideal. Visit www.twitter.combillinghamnpt and clock on the follow button or @BillinghamNPT if you already use Twitter.
Fab Forum nets award Even before it opened its doors in June, Billingham Forum won a top regional award for excellence. £18.5 million refurbishment. The 2011 Constructing Excellence Award for Innovation and Collaboration was awarded to those involved in the £18.5 million major regeneration scheme of the iconic leisure and theatre facility. Picured is Ed Hall - Last years winner and Bayley Black from billingham
Stockton Council, along with Devereux Architects, Morgan Sindall, WYG and BGP, all worked together to bring about the ambitious refurbishment scheme.
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WARD SURGERIES July 2011 – November 2011
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EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 19 July Egglescliffe Community Centre 6:30pm – 7:30pm 5 Aug Trinity Methodist Church 6:30pm – 7:30pm 16 Aug Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00pm – 7:00pm 2 Sept Trinity Methodist Church 6:30pm – 7:30pm 13 Sept Egglescliffe Community Centre 6:30pm – 7:30pm 7 Oct Trinity Methodist Church 6:30pm – 7:30pm 18 Oct Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00pm – 7:00pm 4 Nov Trinity Methodist Church 6:30pm – 7:30pm 15 Nov Egglescliffe Community Centre 6:30pm – 7:30pm COUNCILLORS ALAN LEWIS Tel: 01642 784910 Email: alan.lewis@stockton.gov.uk MRS MAUREEN RIGG Tel: 01642 785689 Email: maureen.rigg@stockton.gov.uk
Bronze turns to gold Four young people from Conyers School in Yarm moved from Bronze to the Gold section in their Duke of Edinburgh Award after successfully completing a four-day, three-night challenge in the Lake District. Rachel Matkin, David Keasey, Lucy Close and Tiago Korynek began their Duke of Edinburgh Award in October 2007 at Bronze level progressing through Silver and undertaking the Gold award, of which this part is one of five at this level.
Fair’s fair The annual Yarm Fair will be back in town from Thursday 20 to Saturday 22 October. Yarm High Street will also be closed two days before - to allow for setting up, as well as during the fair, when Bridge Street and Bentley Wynd will close from 5.30-9pm. On Thursday and Friday 20 and 21 October from the High Street will be closed from 6pm – midnight and on Saturday 22 October from 10.45am – midnight
Their route took them over high mountain passes and through remote countryside as well as alongside beautiful lakes.
EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 15 Jul Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm 19 Aug Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm 5 Sept Preston Primary School 5:30pm – 6:30pm 16 Sept Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm 10 Oct Preston Primary School 5:30pm – 6:30pm 21 Oct Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm
14 Nov Preston Primary School 5:30pm – 6:30pm 18 Nov Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm Further surgery venues to be arranged COUNCILLOR PHIL DENNIS Tel: 01642 790916 Email: phil.dennis@stockton.gov.uk
WESTERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ westernparishesward 2 Aug Stillington Village Hall, Stillington, 6 Sept The Wilson Centre, Long Newton, 4 Oct The Chapel School Room, Carlton 1 Nov Stillington Village Hall, Stillington COUNCILLOR ANDREW STEPHENSON Tel: 0778 529 3416 Email: afsegg@hotmail.co.uk
YARM 6:00PM – 6:45PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/yarmward 2 Aug Challoner House 6 Sept Yarm Library 4 Oct Levendale Primary School 1 Nov Challoner House COUNCILLORS MARK CHATBURN Tel: 01642 789982 Email: mark.chatburn@stockton.gov.uk BEN HOUCHEN Tel: 01642 308201 Email: ben.houchen@stockton.gov.uk ANDREW SHERRIS Tel: 01642 786767 Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.uk
Egglescliffe cemetery
The four close to completion on their fourth day
Signed diversions will be via West Street. A free Park and Ride service will run every 15 -20 minutes from the Oakwood Centre, Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe, from 6pm with the last bus leaving Yarm at 11.50pm. On Saturday 22 October, access to Silver Street and the supermarket car park will be from the Yarm Bridge end of the High Street only. There will be pedestrian access at all times. During the fair bus timetables will vary – please see your local press for details nearer the time.
Bereaved families wishing to bury the cremated remains of their loved ones in the tranquil setting of Egglescliffe Cemetery may now do so, following the opening of a cremated remains garden. Each individual grave can hold two caskets of cremated remains, with room for the placement of a memorial vase. Graves will be lawned, with a small area for families to personalise in their own special way with floral tributes and planting.Jayne Robins, Registration and Bereavement Services Manager said: “This is one of the many planned improvements for our cemeteries. Our next scheme, at Durham Road Cemetery, will be the installation of a commemorative memorial wall to enable people to place dedicated memorial plaques to remember, honour and celebrate the memory of their family and friends.” To find out more about the new Egglescliffe Cremated Remains Garden, call (01642) 527341/2.
s ’ t a h W r Regula Events Throughout the summer
Summer Story Time!
Preston Hall Museum & Park 10.30am-11.30am, 11.30am-13.30pm, 1.30-2.30pm, 2.303.30pm Continues Thursdays throughout summer hols – visit www. stockton.gov.uk/museums for full details.
Regular Arts and Crafts activities
take place at Preston Hall Museum and Park throughout the summer. For organised groups, 10.15-11am, pre-book 50p per child. For families, drop-in 11.15am-12.00noon, 1.15-2pm or 2.15-3pm, no booking required. Children must be with an adult. If sessions are full, tickets will be issued for later slots. Free, though 50p donation suggested. Visit www.stockton. gov.uk/events for details or call (01642) 527820 or 528842.
Making a Mess! Under 5s Club
Preston Hall Museum & Park Every Tue inc school hols 1-3pm. Fun, games, messy craft and story time. Play/nursery groups welcome. Advance booking. Special activities can be arranged for group bookings. Free - although 50p suggested donation per person for refreshments, tel 527820.
Let your kids get crafty
Fairfield Library parent & toddler group every Wednesday 10-11am and Friday 2-3pm during term time. Art and craft club for 5-8 year olds, Wednesday evenings fortnightly 5.306.30pm; Saturday mornings 10.30am-12 noon; 9-13 year olds meet fortnightly, tel 527962.
On
A look at what’s going on around the Borough during
Scrabble group
Norton Library, every Wednesday 1pm, tel 528019.
Hula fitness for 5-11 years
July 23 July ParkMade Cookery demonstration
Ingleby Barwick Community Centre, Haresfield Way Mondays 4.30-5.30pm, £2 per session, tel 524599.
Preston Hall Museum and Park 11am-3.00pm, free, tel 527820.
Hula fitness for families
24 July Archaeology Discoveries Day
Northfield School & Sports College (was Billingham Campus), Billingham. Tuesdays 6-7pm, for 5yrs plus, tel 524599.
Funky Feet
Newlife Children’s Centre, Billingham 2-4 year olds 1.30-2.15pm £1 per session (inc fruit), tel 524599.
Yummy mummies
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 11am-3pm, free, see discoveries from recent kitchen garden excavation and bring your own artefacts for identification plus craft activities, tel 527820.
Pinocchio with Heartbreak Productions
Port Clarence Children’s Centre Every Tuesday (hols may affect opening times, check with venue), 1.30-2.30pm, tel 528914.
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 4.30pm at Bandstand, bring your own seating. Tickets: adult £11, concessions £9, children £6, from Museum Gift Shop or Stockton TIC, tel 528130 or www.stockton.gov.uk/events/pinocchioprestonhall
Dads’ group for under 5s
July 25 – July 29
Footsteps Children’s Centre, Ochil Tce, Billingham, 10am12.30pm First Saturday of every month for fun activities. Mums can attend the chill out zone for a cuppa, tel 528977.
History walks on Stockton’s heritage
Stockton town centre, to book email touristinformation@ stockton.gov.uk or tel 528130.
Thornaby gaming group
Thornaby Library, Westbury St. every Friday 3-5pm. PS3 and Wii. Suitable for 8-18 years, booking advised, tel 528150.
Boys Brigade
Salvation Army holiday club for 7-11 year olds at The Citadel, 10am -12 noon, tel 887375.
30 July Good Crafternoon: Textile craft workshop
Preston Hall Museum and Park 1pm-4pm, £15pp incl materials and refreshments, suitable for all abilities. Call 527820 to book.
t
Augus
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle every Monday, 7.15-9pm. Suitable for 11-15 years, 50p per session, tel 602478.
Parent and toddler group
Norton Library, every Friday in term time. 10-11am. Enjoy stories and songs. Free with refreshments, tel 528019.
Northfield Sportsdrome
Billingham, every Sat morning during term time for youngsters. Football, basketball, golf and much more, call 07598 268876 or visit stocktonps@yahoo.co.uk
Stockton Parent Support
Every Wed during term time, Stockton Parent Support offers a new activity for ages 0-4 years with additional and complex needs. Sure Start Children’s Centre, High Flyers, Thornaby 122pm, tel 07548 968359 or email stocktonps@yahoo.co.uk
Books and banter
Every Wed, 10.30-12 noon, informative talks, guest speakers, local history, lecture hall Central Library, tel 528079.
Wednesday talks
Norton Library, every first Wed of the month, 3pm. Guest speaker and refreshments, free, tel 528019.
Railway Carriage, Wynyard Woodland Park, £5 per child, suitable for ages 7 - 12 years accompanied by an adult. 1:30pm-4:30pm, booking advised, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium.net
Crafty Kids Club
Teesside dialects
Norton Library every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am, free. tel 528019.
Toddler’s Group
The Salvation Army, Palmerston Street, Stockton, every Thursday, 9-11.30am.
Salvation Army – Messy church activities
Shakespeare Reading Group
On the third Saturday of each month, The Salvation Army, The Citadel, Palmerston Street, Stockton, ‘Messy Church’ activities for children, must be with an adult, 10am-12 noon, tel 887375.
Colouring clubs
Family events at Preston Hall Park and Museum
For details of locations email james.longwill@btinternet.com
Roseworth Library every day except Wed 3-6pm, tel 528098. Billingham Library, every Sat 10.30-11.30am, tel 527895. Thornaby Library, Wesbury St. every day 3-7pm, tel 528150.
Homework help sessions
Thornaby Library, Westbury St. Friday 3-5pm, tel 528150.
3 August Build a Rocket
every Wednesday and Friday and details of all the storytime events as well as traditional demonstrations visit www. stockton.gov.uk/museums for full details.
Summer hols at Norton Library
don’t be bored, join the Reading Challenge and other fun activities, tel 528019.
Norton Library 3pm, free event
5 August Wonders of the Universe
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:30pm-9pm, booking advised, public Planetarium Show charges apply: adults £5, concessions £3, family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £15. Tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium. net
6 August 47th Billingham International Folklore Festival
Dance groups from across the globe to enthral and entertain, call 553220 or visit www.billinghamfestival.co.uk Tickets also available from the Box Office near central ramp in town centre. See page 31 for more details.
Basket making
Preston Hall Museum and Park 10am-3pm £25 pp – materials provided, bring old bath towel and an apron, includes all materials and light refreshments. Learn the many varied weaving techniques. Tel. 527820 to book.
www.stockton.gov.uk
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Stockton News Summer/Autumn 2011
July to November 2011 6 & 7 August Birds of prey displays
What’s Up?
Public Observing
13 August Proggy mat making
Public Observing
14 October CaDAS Meeting
Preston Hall Museum and Park, see this spectacular event 12 noon and 2pm each day, free, tel 527820.
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 10am-3.00pm, £15 pp includes lunch and all materials. Please inform staff of dietary reqs, tel 527820 to book.
14 August Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 11am-3pm, free, small charge for children’s picnic bags ordered in advance. Fun and games, face paints, arts and crafts, storytelling and live animals. Tel 527820 for details and to order bags.
19 August Good Crafternoon: Textile craft workshop
Preston Hall Museum and Park 1pm-4pm, £15pp incs materials and refreshments, suitable for all abilities. Call 527820 to book.
20 August Stained glass taster day
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 10am-4pm, £50 pp includes all materials and light refreshments. Work on your own panel to take away using varied techniques. Tel 528720 to book.
Much ado about nothing with The Rain or Shine Theatre Co.
Preston Park. 7pm start, tickets: adults £11, concessions £9, children £6. Bandstand garden opens at 5.30pm for picnics – please bring own seating. Tickets from Museum’s Gift Shop or Stockton TIC, tel 528130 or online http://www.stockton.gov. uk/events/muchadoprestonhall
21 August Art in the Park; Exploring painting with acrylics and gouache Preston Hall Museum and Park, £15 per session and £5 for materials, led by local artist Julie LeFevre. Tel. 527820 to book.
27-29 August
Stockton Summer Show, three days of fantastic fun at Preston Park, free parking, entrance £3.50 adults, £2.50 children and concessions. See page 33 for more details or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
28 August Secrets of the Sun
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 3pm-4:30pm, booking advised, public Planetarium Show charges apply: adults £5, concessions £3, family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £15. Tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium. net
28 August River Rat Race
See full details on page 35
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:30-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9.0010.30pm, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyardplanetarium.net
20-22 October Yarm Fair
TEGOFEST – Parish Gardens Stockton.
21 October Beyond the Big Bang
ParkMade Cookery demonstration
Public Observing
7 September The story of Holy Island,
28 October Creepy Crafts
The Citadel 10am-12 noon
Gospel festival 12-6pm Call 07957 708126 or visit www.gracecoventantministries.org.uk
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 11am-3.00pm, free, tel 527820.
Norton Library, 3pm, free – illustrated talk by Rev Robert Cooper.
See page 43 for details
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:30pm-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9-10.30pm, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium.net
Norton Library 2.30pm-3.30pm, advance booking, tel 528019. Children must be with an adult.
31 October Halloween Fright Night
9 September CaDAS Meeting
7:15-8:45pm, Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, free to members, non-members £1.50/adult or £1/child.
ParkMade Cookery demonstration
Preston Hall Museum & Park: The annual spooky adventure around the grounds. No public parking on site, coaches available from outside Yarm Town Hall, Swallow Hotel and Peter Barett’s in Stockton from 6pm. Tickets £4 per person from Stockton’s Tourist Information Centre, tel 527375.
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 11am-3.00pm, tel 527820.
10-11 September Annual Billingham Carnival
A great weekend of fun for everyone on Old Billingham Green area, see page 42 for details.
16 September Public Observing
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9.0010.30pm, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyardplanetarium.net
Beyond the Big Bang
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park 7:30-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
22 – 24 September Salvation Army annual Flower Festival
The Citadel, Palmerston St, Stockton, Thurs and Fri doors open 10am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm.
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2 November The Messerani project
Norton Library, 3.00pm, talk on how children in Britain are involved with those in Africa.
4 November Public Observing
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9pm-10.30pm, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium.net
What’s up?
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:30pm-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
5 November Phenominal fireworks
Stockton’s annual top firework display takes place at the Riverside. See page 35 for more details or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events
11 November CaDAS Meeting
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7:15-8:45pm, Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, free to members, non-members £1.50/adult or £1/child.
5 October Pictures in beadwork
Norton Library, 3.00pm, free talk by Pat Ryan.
Preston Hall Museum and Park, 10am-3.00pm, £15 pp includes lunch and all materials. Please inform staff of dietary reqs. Tel 527820 to book.
7:15pm-8:45pm, Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, free to members, non-members £1.50/adult or £1/child.
3 September Salvation Army coffee morning
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2 September Proggy mat making
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9.00-10.30pm, tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium.net
7 October What’s up?
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:30-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
18 November Beyond the Big Bang
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park 7:30-9pm – booking advised. Public Planetarium Show charges apply (see 28 August)
Public Observing
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9.00-10.30pm. Tel 01740 630544 or email info@wynyard-planetarium.net