Stockton
news Spring 2012
The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council
contents Spring 2012
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...
You’re hired! Stockton apprenticeships Pages 4 & 5
A river runs through it... Pages 14 & 15
Personal Podium is ready for winners Page 27
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 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.
News Round Up
2
Economic Regeneration and Transport
4
Environment and Housing
12
Adults Services
19
Strong Communities
20
Health and Wellbeing
26
Community Safety
30
Arts, Culture and Leisure
32
Children and Young People
46
Your Council
50
Focus On Your Area
56
What’s On
60
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, Steph Leighton and others. Front cover main picture: Ropner Park, Stockton.
There is an audio version of Stockton News. Please call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or e-mail jacky.stevely@stockton.gov.uk
news Stockton
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News Round Up
As this edition of Stockton News goes to print the Council has just completed the difficult task of agreeing the budget and Council Tax rates for the coming year. It’s been a particularly difficult challenge as we face the combined pressures of significant funding cuts as well as soaring costs. Increases in power and waste disposal costs and rising demand for social care services present real financial challenges. However, our new budget and plan means we start the new financial year in a position where we are able, as far as we can, to protect vital services and continue to drive forward our ambitious plans for the Borough. We will continue to underpin this work with the long term and successful ‘value for money’ programme which has seen us drive £30m out of our budgets over recent years. To read more about our budget plans see pages 50 and 51. This edition includes news of many of our exciting regeneration plans. This month the Council agreed a huge capital investment in Billingham, fulfilling our commitment to develop a new Library and Customer Services Centre, following similar centres in Stockton and Thornaby. The regeneration of both Billingham and Stockton town centres is a clear ambition for us and work will be visible on the ground in both towns very soon. There are also many positive developments in the housing market across the Borough. The £5.5m CESP project in Parkfield, investment in new homes and improvements by Tristar Homes and the wide variety of private housing developments springing up across the Borough are really encouraging. Supporting some of these is a range of schemes to help first-time buyers onto the property ladder. We are helping young people realise their ambitions by supporting apprenticeships both within the Council and in local businesses. You can read how many of these young people also feature strongly in our celebration of the success of our Enterprise Week Challenges, presenting an optimistic for the future. With the Olympics looming, we are offering you the opportunity to achieve a goal of your own through the Personal Podium, possibly from one of our local sporting events. Whatever your challenge it’s a chance to set a personal goal and receive recognition for achieving it – find out more on page 27. Finally, this issue includes our regular events guide. This year is packed with an incredible programme of exciting events, from speciality street markets to the Infinity Festival and Stockton Calling as well as the 25th SIRF, the Stockton International Riverside Festival. Special celebrations will mark the Diamond Jubilee, the Olympics and the opening of our new world-class White Water Course. The guide, in our centrefold, gives details of these and many other events.
New library and services centre boost for Billingham Billingham’s regeneration has received a huge boost with the news that the town is to have a new library and customer service centre. As part of its budget commitment for the coming year, Stockton Council has allocated funding to develop a new facility modelled on similar successful centres already opened in Thornaby and Stockton. The £2.5 million scheme will bring Council investment in Billingham to more than £23 million in recent years and follows the successful redevelopment of the Forum leisure complex, removal of the former Roundel nightclub and Forum House, and improvements still under way at John Whitehead Park. Development of new housing has also boosted the town centre. The Council is currently working up plans to develop the complex on the site of the former Billingham Art Gallery and Council offices and is considering whether to refurbish them or replace them with a completely new structure. Over the coming months it will carry out a consultation to seek local views on the delivery of services in Billingham. Construction work is likely to begin in 2013 and Council still hopes to work with the NHS to include a health facility in the centre. The Council is also about to begin a £2.35 million improvement programme for the town centre in partnership with its owners,
Stockland Plc to include new toilets, repaving the entire central area, new seating, lighting and other improvements to the streetscape. Paving in the market area will also be strengthened to accommodate traders’ vehicles. Stockland Plc has submitted a planning application to create space for a new national leisure operator and retailer in the West Precinct. The Company will also renovate buildings around the town square and Queensway, while a new Poundland store will open at Easter. Richard Poundford, Stockton Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “This tremendous news for Billingham and honours our commitment to create such a facility in the town. In Thornaby and Stockton, our hugely successful service centres have helped attract many people into the town centres. “Billingham is flourishing at present, with 95 per cent of available retail units let and developments such as the housing at College Gardens and the new Bede College are all playing an important role in regenerating the town.” Alison Robertson, Asset Management Director of Stockland Plc, added: “We are very keen to see real improvements taking place on the ground in Billingham and are working closely with Stockton Council to complete these for the benefit of the local community.”
Billingham House: Three of the country’s top judges
Neil Schneider Chief Executive, Stockton Borough Council
will now decide the fate of the dilapidated Billingham House. Although the High Court upheld Stockton Council’s plans to demolish the building, owners Bizzy B Management Ltd later won permission in February to take its case to the Court of Appeal. The case is likely to be heard in May.
Spring 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk
Next steps for £20 million Stockton Town Centre regeneration
Last year the refurbishment of the historic town hall and the £1.9 million investment in Stockton Central library was completed. Restoration of heritage buildings is improving the look of the historic centre with nos 110, 127 and 128 High Street renovated, work to Blue Post, Ship Inn and Hambletonian Yards
in progress and restoration of 14/16 West Row due for completion next year. Construction has started on the multi-million pound North Shore housing regeneration scheme near the Tees Barrage. In December the Council’s Cabinet approved funding and design principles for the first major stage of the five year vision. Junction improvements, on-street parking, upgraded traffic signals and improved paving are among works at the
Northern end of the High Street funded through the Tees Valley Bus Network Improvements project. New traffic arrangements at Maxwell’s Corner will speed bus journeys. Construction will start at the Southern end of the High Street and at St John’s Crossing (Halford’s roundabout) this year, again improving town centre access. Castlegate Centre owner Lathe Investments expects to enhance its car parks and
Royal seal for £8.5m factory Japanese car part giant Nifco received the royal seal of approval after its new £8.5m factory was opened by HRH Prince Andrew, the Duke of York (pictured), in February. The £30m-turnover business has moved from its Yarm Road factory in Stockton into a new state-of-the-art plant at Eaglescliffe and was officially opened by the Prince, who is a special representative for international trade and investment. After a tour of Nifco’s Stockton factory, the Prince visited the new Durham Lane site to see the 130,000 sq ft premises.
shopping facilities, starting with refurbishment and expansion of the Market Hall this spring. The Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford, said: “It’s an exciting time for Stockton town centre and this regeneration will make it a more inviting place to shop, eat, relax and be entertained. “We’re attracting new businesses, particularly independents, and I’m sure the town’s popularity will grow as the investment progresses. All the town’s car parks continue to operate as usual so, while the investment gets under way, I’d like to invite people to visit the town and its newest shops like the independent retailers on Silver Street.”
Artist’s impression of views to Infinity Bridge
The ambitious £20 million regeneration of Stockton town centre is well under way.
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The relocation will allow the company to fulfil significant new contracts with Honda, Nissan, Jaguar and Landrover and Nifco expects to increase its workforce from 200 in 2011 to 300.
The Council has continued discussions with local businesses, market traders, taxi and bus operators and others to refine the plans for the first major High Street changes in 15 years. The latest plans include a new road layout for buses, cars and taxis, space for events and markets, on-street parking, space for people to sit, relax and play and opening up views towards Infinity Bridge and the riverside - see www.stockton. gov.uk/stocktontowncentre STOP PRESS: It was smiles all round recently as local company Nifco was named as Teesside’s Company of the Year for the second year running. Other Stockton companies nominated for the title were Darchem Engineering of Stillington and The Five Lamps, Thornaby. ‘Heart of the Community’ was named as Marshalls, Eaglescliffe and the ‘Services’ award winner was Odyssey Systems, Stockton and the ‘Innovation’ award went to Tadea, Billingham.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
You’re hired! Stockt Stockton Council is set to recruit more apprentices as part of a bid to boost the employment prospects of people across the Borough. both the apprentice and their employer by giving individuals an opportunity to develop the skills they’ll need for a successful career while allowing businesses to train their workforce in a way which will best suit the future success of their organisation.” 24-year-old Daniel Spooner (pictured top right) from Stockton completed an apprenticeship in Joinery through Stockton Council between 2004 and 2007 and now works for RT Windows in Portrack. He said: “I started my apprenticeship at 16. It was a great way to learn a trade and it led to a full-time permanent job.
It already provides apprenticeship placements in areas such as Civil Engineering, Business Administration, Human Resources, Catering and Horticulture. 18-year-old Raechel George (pictured) started her Business Administration apprenticeship with the Council last September and is currently placed as a receptionist at the Register Office. Raechel thinks the apprenticeship will give her the experience she needs to progress her career: “I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship and learn new skills every day.
“I’m keeping an open-mind about the kind of job I’d like in the long term but I’m confident the apprenticeship route will help me move quickly up the career ladder.” The Council is also exploring the possibility of introducing apprenticeships in ICT, Marketing, Youth Work, Teaching Assistants and Care Work. Future opportunities could also include Building Maintenance, Highways, Accountancy, Housing and Cleaning and Environmental Services. It hopes the new apprenticeship drive will also attract more ‘looked after children’ as well as young people with learning
difficulties, to help ensure people of all ages and backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed in their chosen job field. The Council’s Tees Achieve Service places hundreds of apprentices with businesses every year. Its apprenticeship programme is free for anyone aged between 16 and 24 and is an approved and nationally accredited Apprenticeship Framework.
“I’ve been in work continuously ever since and I would certainly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is considering learning a professional trade.” Fast Track Reclaim in Stockton is another private sector organisation benefitting from apprenticeships.
Meanwhile, the search is on for more businesses to offer apprenticeship placements.
Manager Gemma Taylor Wright said: “We have been involved with the Tees Achieve apprenticeship scheme for nearly two years and have placed nine apprentices in this time.
The Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford, said: “Apprenticeships benefit
“Our apprentices are all valued members of staff and we really enjoy supporting young people growing up in the local area.”
Spring 2012
www.twitter.com/stocktoncouncil
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ton apprenticeships To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ apprenticeships Any business who thinks they can offer an apprenticeship opportunity should contact (01642) 528262 or (01642) 528112 or visit www.stockton. gov.uk/apprenticesforemployers
“I would certainly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is considering learning a professional trade.”
Apprentices help their community Young apprentices across the Borough turned their hands to all sorts of work to mark National Apprenticeship Week. Joinery apprentices from Stockton Council’s Tees Achieve Service joined local social enterprise Community Campus 87 and Tees Valley Community Foundation to refurbish a property in the Newtown area. The house is one of the first to be refurbished through the Council’s Empty Homes scheme which sees it working with Coast and Country Housing Association to refurbish and let out empty properties. The young people helping with the refurbishment
work are all enrolled on Bench Joinery and Site Joinery apprenticeships. 16-year-old Zoe Corner (pictured) is one of them, and said: “It’s fantastic to have an opportunity to put my skills into use in a reallife situation. “I am excited about my apprenticeship and am looking forward to securing a placement with a local employer so I can further develop and progress.” Meanwhile Health and Social Care apprentices from Tees Achieve put on an afternoon of entertainment for the Billingham Ladies Club. The audience of 35 enjoyed entertainment from a local dance troupe and singer Janine Andrews.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
More than a century of success
From small beginnings in 1903 as a ‘Wire Works’ in Stockton’s Silver Street, precision engineers Francis Brown have grown over more than a century into a multi-million pound organisation. Now based at the top of Church Road in a facility with more than 3,000sq metres of floorspace, the company produces high quality fabrications for basically anything to do with the oil, gas and Sub Sea industries and distributes worldwide. As well as making its mark on the international stage, Frances Brown has secured work at North East chemical plants and oil rigs in the North Sea and hopes the current 89 employees will grow to 100 in the not-too-distant future. Managing Director Jamie Brown said: “We’re pleased and proud to be a North East company able to put this area on the international map. Creating jobs gives us the knowledge and satisfaction that we are continuing with our own success story as well as helping the local economy.”
Frances Brown worked on the world’s largest Tidal turbine
Frances Brown recently helped Stockton Baptist Tabernacle light up its Cross for the first time since being built a decade ago.
Stockton Business Centre in Brunswick Street is a hive of industry where businesses are flourishing... Here’s some news on their success. Administration organisation: If you run a business, you’ll know just how much the administration needed to do it can be the bain of your life. Now LocalRus have created a new web-based software package called Amala to help take the pain out of administration. They are calling for a number of businesses to help trial it
and have the chance to win an iPad2 and 12 months free use of the system. To find out more about the trials of Amala and LocalRus call (01642) 424270 or visit www.amalasoftware.co.uk Irish eyes will be smiling: Independent heating oil supplier Homefuels Direct will be expanding its operations into the Republic
One-stop motorcycle shop A small grant from Stockton Council has helped Steve Basford and Mick Brogan, owners of Crofton Court Motorcycles, based at Crofton Court, Crofton Road, off Portrack Lane in Stockton to add to their equipment to service motorcycles. The pair carry out MOTs, servicing, repairs, tyre replacement and soon hope to be selling helmets, jackets and general bike equipment. To find out more visit www.croftoncourtmotorcyclesltd.co.uk or call (01642) 601795.
of Ireland in May. The company already supplies heating oil, fuel tanks, oil tank contents gauges and fuel additives across the UK. Taking on the big boys: Ben Sanson and Ben James have beaten off stiff competition from some of the region’s biggest consulting and design agencies to secure a major
contract with major North East food manufacturer SK Chilled Foods with their company – Squegg. They re-branded and re-designed SK’s website and are increasing their business from large PLCs to sole traders in everything from property, kitchens and plumbing to flowers, schools and local authorities.
www.facebook.com/stocktoncouncil
Stockton becomes home to more businesses As the £20 million regeneration of Stockton Town Centre continues, the Council is working hard to encourage more businesses to set up shop. Stockton Enterprise Arcade, at 147 High Street, is helping three fledgling businesses start trading. As well as the space in the shop for six months, each business also receives individual business coaching, including marketing advice and training, to help them make the most of their venture and continue their success. They also receive advice to help find suitable premises to trade at the end of the six months. Currently trading from the Enterprise Arcade are Sophie Rose Dress Agency, selling pre-loved designer and top end High Street women’s clothing and accessories, alternative Goth business The Black Box sells clothes and accessories while supporting local bands through sponsorship and advertising,
and florist Florelle selling flowers and gifts. Owner of Sophie Rose Dress Agency, Rachel Pybus, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to establish a customer base in Stockton with relatively low risk. “The Enterprise Arcade really shows that if you have a marketable product there are excellent initiatives like this available to help get you started.” Silver Street in Stockton is also flourishing. “Chocs Away” a traditional sweet shop and “Hobbies R Uz” selling remote control cars and boats for modelling enthusiasts have both opened there – having first started trading in the Enterprise Arcade last year.
Spring 2012
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Sample Stockton’s fairs Shoppers, make a date in the diary as a range of specialist markets heads to Stockton town centre over the coming months. On Saturday, 14 April the popular arts and craft fair arrives with traders offering a range of quality products. The following Saturday, 21 April, retro goods, collectables, antiques and hand-crafted wares will be on offer at Chic Vintique. Both markets will be in Parish Gardens from 10am–4pm. The farmer’s market returns to Stockton on Saturdays 28 April and 26 May in Wellington Square. Come along for the finest produce including organic meat and vegetables, cheeses, homemade jams and much more from 9am–2pm. Watch out for a whole host of other markets throughout the year – including vintage toys and railways, and a world fair. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ events or telephone Angela Brayshaw on (01642) 527568.
Euphoria Boutique has also established itself inside Review on Silver Street, offering ladies eveningwear, prom wear, bridal dresses accessories for all occasions as well as ball and evening gown hire. To find out more visit www.euphoriashop. co.uk
Picture courtesy of Adam Parkin
A n’ice’ contract Based in central Stockton, Additional Lengths one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of hair extensions, recently landed a lucrative deal with programme Dancing on Ice.
Rachel Pybus – Sophie Rose Dress Agency, Jonn Imrie - The Black Box, Ellen McGinley and Norma Harding - Florelle
The show’s award-winning celebrity hairdresser Paul Haskell approached them to supply extensions throughout the seventh series. Find out more about Additional Lengths at www.additionallengths.co.uk or call (01642) 867213.
news Enterprise at th Stockton
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Stockton Borough is bustling with entrepreneurial talent and has plenty to celebrate with hundreds of people across the Borough working with the Council to develop their entrepreneurial skills and ideas. Last month St Michael’s RC Comprehensive School were crowned the winners of the 2011 Schools Enterprise Markets Challenge after generating £300 selling homemade vintage sweets.
St Patrick’s Catholic College worked with north-east chocolatier Gareth James to make their own chocolates. 16-year-old Peter Mankin said: “Working with Gareth made our challenge very real. It was really interesting to learn how chocolates are made and it made me think about how exciting it could be to set up my own business when I’m older.” Late last year the Borough held a hugely successful Enterprise Week. Nationally recognised by the Global Entrepreneurship team, the programme of events was awarded a prestigious High Impact Badge of Honour. Families across the Borough had the chance to explore their entrepreneurial ideas and test trade their ideas on Stockton Market. Stockton Council worked alongside Enterprise Made Simple, an organisation which supports people who would like to set up their own business, and Avanta, an employment based training and Enterprise Company, to encourage families to bid for £50 from a special ‘Enterprise Bank’ as a contribution towards the start-up costs associated with getting their fledgling ideas to take flight.
Winning St M
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More than 70 young people from schools across the Borough worked with around 20 businesses to develop a range of innovative, yet marketable items to sell. They showcased their exciting new product ideas at last year’s Stockton Sparkles Christmas Market Fair.
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Spring 2012
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heir fingertips Residents went beyond expectations and the families came up with a range of exciting and innovative businesses. The winning family were the Nowaska family from Thornaby
To find out more about Stockton Council’s Enterprise Culture Project and the opportunities available for young people and businesses contact Gary Lynch on (01642) 528705 or email gary.lynch@stockton.gov.uk
More than 60 residents attended three innovative workshops to help people understand how technology can benefit business offered by Social Enterprise Five Lamps. Digital City treated residents interested in learning more about the digital and creative industries to an excellent day at Stockton Riverside College. A range of exciting entrepreneurial activities is also under way all year round. Abbey Hill School and Technology College is working with Squegg Brand Consultancy to create a mobile shop to sell items they produced, like home made honey and eggs. Ben from the consultancy said: “It’s great to have worked with the students on the day and our company is now turning their designs into reality so the shop will go into the community with a slick and professional design.”
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Bishopsgarth School is also turning its hand to entrepreneurship by growing their own produce to sell to the local community.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
A new start
No-one would argue that suffering redundancy would come as a shock and disappointment to most people – but when it happened to Roz Pickersgill and Josie Andrew they decided to set up a business of their own which not only uses all their skills and experience but is also unique. Both were previously Attendance Officers for Stockton Council and, following advice and funding from the Council through Enterprise Made Simple, the pair are both pleased and
excited with their progress so far and how their new business, Education Welfare Ltd, is taking off. They say they are having a measured and positive impact in helping primary and secondary schools improve attendance, improving life chances of the youngsters they are helping. Moving into office accommodation in Arthur Robinson House on the Green in Billingham last October, they quickly got to grips with their IT equipment and the need to hold all information securely. The schools working with Roz and Josie are delighted with the results and one
head teacher said: “As a result of this service, school attendance has improved and a number of families supported and advised on attendance issues. As a school, we believe Education Welfare Ltd is providing a valuable service to both ourselves and the local community.” Schools are finding the advantage of having a dedicated School Welfare officer has enabled them to provide an extra layer of support for children who are showing signs of declining attendance or where lateness may be creeping in. Josie said: “We absolutely love our job and are passionate about what we do. When we were made redundant we turned what we thought was a negative into a positive which has given us the freedom to use our expertise to offer a complimentary service in education welfare.” As Stockton News went to print Roz and Josie were working with ten local schools and hope to expand in the future. To find out more about Education Welfare Ltd call (01642) 367936 or visit www. educationwelfare.com
Never short of support Support from the Business Enterprise Group is helping the Borough’s businesses get started and continue to grow through three local programmes: Investment for Growth, funded through the European Regional Development Fund Competitiveness Programme 2007 -2013, offers an experienced team of business advisers to identify projects eligible for financial assistance and is available until December. To find out more call John Heslop on 07917 616022 or email john. heslop@businesses-enterprise.net Over the Threshold offers support to existing small business to overcome barriers,
whether it’s registering for VAT, taking on that first employee, or support with submitting tenders. The project is funded through Stockton Council’s Communities Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. To find out more call Mark David on 07827 352861 or email mark. david@business-enterprise.net The Business Partner offers hands-on assistance to add value to businesses where a team of experienced business partners help with all aspects of running a business. To find out more call Stephen Gibson on 07810 301609 or email Stephen.gibson@ be-ne.co.uk To find out more visit www.businessenterprise.net
Money well spent So much good has come out of £274,216 of funding from the Council’s Communities Fund, allocated to the Central Area Partnership board over the last three years. The money enabled several projects to succeed, from creating job placements to positions for apprentices. These included: • The Future Jobs Fund received a funding boost from the Central Area Partnership Board, which contributed towards appointing 121 people into job placements, 70 from the central area. • It’s widely acknowledged homelessness causes barriers to employment and a year-long pilot project helped more than 100 people tackle barriers to employment. • A Volunteer Bureau set up by Viva Volunteers in Stockton is now successfully extended Boroughwide. • Help for young adults to improve their employability skills and offering them the opportunity to take part in paid practical work experience in the successful Employability Pathways Project. Paul Thomas, Chair of the Central Area Partnership Board, said: “The projects supported by the Central Area Partnership Board Communities Fund have provided fantastic opportunities for some of our residents in the Borough’s central area. It’s been a worthwhile investment which will leave a lasting legacy.”
www.twitter.com/stocktoncouncil
Parking plans for the Borough With many recent comments about parking charges, it’s timely to consider why we have them and how they can help motorists and businesses. Many people believe the Council charges for parking, and issues tickets to those who break the rules, to raise money. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Charges help control how people park – for example, to ensure enough shortstay spaces are available for shoppers and motorists don’t park in unsafe or undesirable places. The income goes towards the cost of providing the parking spaces, with any surplus going back into local parking and transport schemes, by law. Last year, the national media reported what resulted when Aberystwyth, Wales, temporarily had no parking wardens. Drivers blocked deliveries to businesses, double parked, obstructed junctions and brought traffic to a standstill. Disabled drivers found their spaces occupied by others and the AA said some drivers were “very selfish and potentially dangerous”. Clearly, we don’t want anything similar here. In December, the Council adopted a strategy for parking across the Borough. Designed to support economic success and continued growth of our towns, it particularly looked at improving parking and encouraging visitors to local centres. In Thornaby and Billingham, most car parks are in the
hands of private owners and we works closely with these to alleviate any parking problems and look at future plans, particularly for long-stay parking in Thornaby.
Spring 2012
Adjudicator dismisses Yarm parking appeal An independent parking adjudicator has ended doubts over the legality of a disc parking scheme in Yarm High Street by dismissing an appeal against an earlier ruling.
In Stockton, the Council’s five-year £20 million programme to regenerate the High Street includes reintroduction of on-street parking to improve access for shoppers.
The latest ruling, by a Traffic Penalty Tribunal adjudicator in Manchester, comprehensively dismissed all the points put forward on behalf of the appellant.
In Yarm, the Council has agreed to replace disc parking with a pay and display scheme and other changes to increase the availability of short stay spaces.
Earlier, the Traffic Penalty Tribunal had dismissed an appeal against a ticket issued last September when a motorist overstayed the permitted period. The motorist had claimed there was no valid Traffic Regulation Order to allow parking enforcement in the disc zone and the layout and signage did not comply with the regulations but the adjudicator had ruled that such an Order had been in place since 1998.
“The disc system is inflexible and doesn’t allow stays over two hours,” Richard McGuckin, the Council’s Head of Technical Services explained. “The new scheme will give 10 minutes free parking or half an hour for 20p. Beyond that, you can choose how long you want to stay. “Most towns and cities use pay and display because it’s easy to understand and manage. It’s very cheap for short stays and gives the flexibility to stay longer.” He added that the Council is committed resolving the town’s long-stay parking needs and will also introduce a residents parking scheme. A similar pay and display system has operated successfully in Stockton for some years and the Council plans to boost the scheme with special promotions in both Yarm and Stockton. A ‘Free after Three’ promotion, giving free parking after 3pm, has proved successful last Christmas.
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However, when the motorist appealed against the decision, adjudicator Stephen Knapp gave a detailed
nine-page ruling which found no merit in any of the arguments put forward. He found no evidence that procedures for making the Traffic Regulation Order had not been followed, ruling that the Order is supported by a valid plan of the parking layout and that the signs displayed and bay markings are adequate. Richard McGuckin, Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, said: “This judgement is very clear. Case history required the markings and signage to be sufficient for the motorist to understand them. This is the case in Yarm. “We were always satisfied that the Order is valid and the markings and signage are adequate and the ruling from the tribunal supports this.” The cost of the challenges will fall on local Council Tax payers. Stockton Council has sent copies of the judgment to Cleveland Police, Yarm Chamber of Trade and Yarm Town Council.
No waiting – or bus lane Waiting restrictions could be introduced on Junction Road, Norton, to ease traffic congestion where it meets Station Road but plans for a bus lane there will not now go ahead following local consultation. The Council has reviewed the proposals and traffic engineers will now draw up detailed designs for the waiting restrictions, which would operate at peak traffic hours only to improve local traffic flow. Further consultation will follow.
The bus lane would have run eastbound along Junction Road between Ashville Avenue and Station Road but a number of issues were identified after local Councillors led the consultation. These included anticipated changes in traffic due to the relocation of both the North Shore Health Academy and Red House School, along with the proposed new hospital, which are likely to reduce the future need for the bus lane. Some residents also felt the width of the road and difficulties in turning into and out of side roads were issues.
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Environment and Housing
Parkfield project Fuel poverty is being tackled in the Parkfield area of Stockton thanks to funding of almost £5.5 million pounds to redress this and boost housing regeneration. Working with Community Energy Solutions (CES), the Council secured £3.9 million of funding from Eggborough Power Ltd, based near Selby, through the energy saving programme to help keep more than 600 households keep warmer for less. Some will cut annual energy bills by £270, as well as cutting the Borough’s carbon emissions by more than 100,000 tonnes. GoWarm, part of CES, is delivering improvements such as insulation to external walls, cavities and lofts, high-efficiency boiler upgrades and advice and support, all free of charge. The additional £1.5 million of funding from the Department of Communities and Local Government will allow the Council to continue
long term regeneration plans for Parkfield’s partdemolished area. The ambition for the area includes new, good quality homes for sale and rent. The funding is part of a bid jointly submitted by four Tees Valley local authorities (through Tees Valley Unlimited) to support stalled housing schemes earmarked for development under the dissolved Housing Market Renewal programme. The money, which will be matchfunded by the Council, will support the purchase of 34 properties and allow the existing site to be cleared and made attractive with landscaping. In total, 103 properties will have been demolished. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ warmparkfield
All five had failed to pay fixed penalty notices after being spotted littering by Stockton Council Enforcement Officers or a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). After eating a takeaway a man was caught throwing it on the pavement, then throwing an ice cream wrapper onto a grass verge –
After
Above, Director of GoWarm Karen Hindhaugh and Tarring Street resident Mary Moran.
Not so famous five Dropping litter just isn’t worth it as five residents found when Teesside Magistrates ordered them to pay more than £1,300 in fines and costs recently.
Before
even though there was a waste bin five yards away. Another man was recorded dropping sweet wrappers despite being apprehended by a PCSO. CCTV caught a man throwing food boxes and paper bags from a car window and an enforcement officer saw a woman throw a cigarette from her car window. The Council spends more than £1.9 million of public money each year on keeping our streets clean and litter-free and officers have a duty to take action against offenders and will always prosecute those who flout the law.
Neighbours…everybody loves good neighbours… Having a thought for your neighbours and keeping the noise down bodes for much better neighbourly relationships. In February Magistrates ordered a noisy neighbour to pay £255 and ordered two televisions to be forfeited after Stockton Council took court action. One resident in Stockton pleaded guilty to four offences of breach of a Noise Abatement Notice and was fined a total of £120 and ordered to pay costs of £120 and a victim surcharge of £15.
Stockton Council’s Environmental Health Officers were alerted to loud music being played through a television during late night parties, causing a disturbance to neighbours. Despite warnings from the Council’s Out of Hours Noise Service and a Noise Abatement Notice the problem persisted. This led to Environmental Health Officers and Police using a warrant to enter the premises and seize two television sets. If you have trouble with noisy neighbours call Stockton Council’s Out of Hours Noise Service on (01642) 528034 or email environmental.health@ stockton.gov.uk
Spring 2012
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Blooming marvellous Stockton will once again represent the region in Britain in Bloom after judges announced the 2012 finalists. As holders of the 2011 Best City title in the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society competition, Stockton will compete in this year’s Champion of Champions section. The 2011 Gold award was Stockton’s second, repeating our 2009 achievement in Europe’s largest horticultural competition.
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Your chance to bloom in 2012 The Council is looking for people to become involved in Stockton in Bloom again this year. Just a small effort can really help make sure the Borough is one we can all be really proud of. Some of the things you can do to help include: brightening up your neighbourhood with hanging baskets or becoming a keen gardener and making yours the envy of the Street! Or why not become a countryside volunteer or arrange a litter pick event in your area? There’s all sorts you can do. So if you have blooming good idea about how you can help please call Debbie McGough on (01642) 524682 or email Debbie. mcgough@stockton.gov.uk
Stockton was selected from more than 1,000 entries to take part in the 2012 finals with just 73 finalists chosen across a number of categories. The Council’s Care For Your Area Team works all year round to keep the Borough green and clean and, with support from many green-fingered residents and businesses, creates a sea of colour with plants, flowers and shrubs.Judges will make spring and summer visits before announcing the 2012 Britain in Bloom results in October.
Wildflower haven
enriching nature programme to transform the area, using a mix of meadow seed and wildflower seeds handgathered from nearby sites by local volunteers. The funding will also see three stock ponds created for grazing animals, an owl nesting box and a footpath so visitors can walk through the meadow when it is in full flower. Once complete, the meadow will be the largest managed area of this type of habitat in the Tees Valley. It will account for four per cent of the Government’s national Biodiversity Action Plan target, set to help conserve the biological resources of the UK.
Keith Mathews, left, from Stockton Council with Martin Allen of The Wildflower Ark
‘Wild about wildflowers’ is this year’s Britain in Bloom campaign theme and Stockton will soon have its own wildflower haven to admire, as
work is under way to transform a disused piece of land into a flowering wildlife sanctuary. Pickard’s Meadow in Wynyard Woodland Park is to become
ten hectares of lowland meadow, providing a home for many different species of flowers, plants, pond life and other wildlife. Stockton Council secured £31,500 from SITA Trust’s
The Council is working with The Wildflower Ark (specialists in the flora of the Lower Tees Valley) to prepare and monitor the site, as well as with other local organisations such as Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, Teesmouth Bird Club and the National Grid.
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Environment and Housing
A river
runs through it... Stockton – as its full title suggests, is literally on the Tees, with the river at the Borough’s heart. How many places can boast they have a wide range of housing developments in both town and riverside settings? How many towns can offer buyers such a variety of different options, ways and means of setting foot on the property ladder, or moving up it? Stockton can. A sign of an upturn in the economy, new housing sites are springing up across the Borough as businesses choose to establish themselves and trade here. They say an Englishman’s home is his castle. Maybe castles aren’t possible but homes in Stockton Borough certainly are. For those looking to buy their first home, but are put off by stricter mortgage lending conditions and higher deposit requirements, various schemes offered by Stockton Council and others may be able to help. A look at housing developments both on the riverside and across the Borough shows just how you could get a step on the property ladder. Along the river, the Vivo Northshore development is emerging as a prime
example, close to the stunning Infinity Bridge. The first of the initial 50 houses here are nearly complete and some are already sold to those who want to be close to the river, offering changes of scenery with the changes of the seasons. The new show home is now open.
incentives are offered here including the Government-backed FirstBuy equity loan scheme. Nearby, Phase 2 will see 262 properties cleared and a new master plan to guide future homebuilding on a site between Dovecot Street and Yarm Lane.
Built by Muse Developments and sister company Lovell the open-plan layout gives these two to four-bedroom family properties a continental feel, with features such as roof terraces and panoramic river views.
Two continuing success stories include the regeneration of Hardwick Estate with Meadow Rise in Stockton and Mandale Park in Thornaby.
Nearby is Whitewater Glade, a Persimmon Homes development off Portrack Lane, where two to fivebedroomed homes and two-bed apartments are available now on the site of the old Corus pipe mill. Further upstream but still linking with the green Tees corridor is Pottery Wharf, just off Thornaby Road where Bett Homes will build 87 houses and 27 apartments. Close to Stockton town centre is the Parkfield Phase 1 redevelopment, Nursery Gardens, by Dunelm Homes which will provide 110 new homes when complete. Various home ownership
The Meadow Rise development at Hardwick will also be popular with those planning for retirement or looking to downsize, with the recent announcement of plans for 19 new twobedroomed bungalows for sale and rent. One of the few sites offering this type of housing for sale, this is a fantastic new addition to the Borough’s housing offer. Homes close to shopping centres offer the convenience of being able to ‘nip out’ for shopping and Billingham College Gardens, on the former Billingham College, site is a prime example with the new residential development offering 176 homes. Whilst driving down Norton Road, you may have noticed the large cleared site
Spring 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk
Whitewater Glade, Stockton
Vivo Northshore, Stockton
Pottery Wharf, Thornaby
College Gardens, Billingham
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of the former Hills Doors. Here, on the new Queen’s Park a substantial amount of new homes with parking and open space are planned. Just across Norton Road, the redevelopment of the Swainby Road estate continues with the next stage of demolition due soon. Heading back into Stockton, master planning and visioning work for redeveloping the Victoria estate has also recently begun. Heading south out of town, Queensgate is taking shape on the former Visqueen site with 474 dwellings planned. Ingleby Barwick, the UK’s largest housing development, continues to grow and Hazeldene, by Persimmon Homes, is offering various schemes to help new buyers. The Homes and Communities Agency recently announced funding for several registered housing providers, which will both allow for the continuation of Hardwick, Mandale and Parkfield and for new developments at Swainby Road, the former Derwent House site in Billingham and the former Prosser site at Parkfield Road, in Stockton.
Nursery Gardens, Stockton
Stockton Council has an Affordable Homeownership Team which helps people looking to buy affordable homes, for example homes sold at a discount or on a shared equity or ownership basis. The developments of Hazeldene in Ingleby Barwick, Whitewater Glade, Pottery Wharf and High Brook Croft, Yarm, all fall into this category. If you would like find out more, you first need to be on the Affordable Homes Register. Call (01642) 528646, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ affordablehomeownership
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Environment and Housing
Roots for royalty
Left to right: Stockton Council’s Terry Douthwaite, Danny Jones, Kealyne McArther, Yassime Clayphan, parent volunteer who runs the gardening club, Matthew Peacock, Jamie Jones and Neil Docherty.
Thanks to Jamie Jones, a year 8 Bishopgarth School pupil, Oxbridge Cemetery in Stockton now boasts more than 100 new saplings. A keen member of the school’s gardening club, Jamie applied to the Woodland Trust’s Jubilee Woods project for the trees which will provide attractive greenery in years to come as well as a welcome home for wildlife. When Jamie found out he was successful he contacted Countryside Rangers at Stockton Council to see where he could plant the 105
hazel, blackthorn, crab apple, elder and dog rose saplings. Countryside Rangers Terry Douthwaite and Neil Docherty organised a site for the planting and joined Jamie and other gardening club members on the day to dig the earth. The Woodland Trust is providing packs of trees to community groups, schools and youth groups to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Each pack contains a royal oak sapling.
Clear your rubbish not your bank Spring has nearly sprung and traditionally its the time when moving homes and clearing out is on the agenda for lots of folk. Doing it the right way could save you money and a criminal conviction. You can get rid of items several ways. Take them yourself to the Household Waste Recycling Centre in Haverton Hill, use the Council’s services or a ‘man with a van’. But beware, that ‘man with a van’ must be registered to carry waste and hold a current, valid waste carrier’s licence. He must also be able to produce waste carrier transfer notes for the work
carried out and it’s advisable for householders to keep a copy of these notes. Failure to do so could result in a heavy fine for them and should they dump your rubbish you could be liable too, with prosecution fines up to £5,000! Three recent court cases led to fines and costs amounting to £879.00, almost £700 and £175 for carriers not producing the correct paperwork.
Did you k
now? Last year the Coun collected cil mo suites, alm re than 3,000 ost 1,000 pieces of bedroo m furnitu re and 1,500 bed s, more th a 2,000 ma ttresses, fr n idges and freez ers, 700 T Vs, 100 cookers a nd almost 200 washer d ryers.
Stockton Council’s Care For Your Area service offers a waste collection service where, for £15, they will collect six items such as washing machines, wardrobes and carpets. Fixtures and fittings such as kitchens are more expensive and we can give you a free quote. It’s easy to arrange, just call and pay by phone or call in to Stockton Central Library, Thornaby Pavilion or Billingham Cash Office. You don’t need to be there when the items are collected so long as they are clearly visible and we’ll pick them up within five to seven working days. To find out more call (01642) 391959, or visit www. stockton.gov.uk/bulkywaste
Lower energy – higher savings! Stockton Council is making all efforts to reduce its carbon emissions and boost its energy efficiency and, on average, we estimate efficiency measures are saving around £150,000 a year on energy bills. Additional building insulation, street lighting upgrades and swimming pool covers have all helped energy efficiency. Installing voltage optimisers, which ensure electrical equipment is supplied with the voltage needed to work at optimum efficiency, rather than the much higher voltages supplied by the national grid, have cut electricity use by 10-15 per cent.
Motion sensors in Kingsway House, Billingham, ensure lights go off in unoccupied parts of the building. Switching off IT equipment, lowering office temperature and good housekeeping by all staff has helped energy efficiency. Although variables such as cold winters and longer opening hours make it difficult to quantify exact savings made, we do expect significant savings in the future.
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Tristar - keeping its promise It’s been a year since Tristar Homes began its £100 million investment programme following the successful transfer of more than 10,000 Stockton Council homes. Now, more than 1,000 Tristar residents are enjoying improvements such as new windows, doors, kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems. Tristar will continue to keep its promise, carrying out further improvement work with construction partners FHM and the Apollo Group. Tristar, now part of the Vela Group and Housing Hartlepool, is planning lots of new homes with 80 already built in the Stockton area and, in the future, regeneration of areas including Swainby Road and the Victoria estate Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive said: “It’s been an exciting year for Tristar Homes and the investment in tenants’ homes has now picked up pace. Residents are reporting very high levels of satisfaction with the work we are doing and we hope to complete the
planned work well in advance of the five year programme originally promised.” One Tristar customer said: “I would like to commend the Tristar staff who contacted me and my wife about the home improvement work. Their pleasant attitude was very reassuring, nothing was too difficult for them to answer and their manner and professionalism is a credit to themselves and to Tristar.” To find out more about the work call Tristar’s Customer Service Centre on 0300 111 1000. or visit www.tristar-homes.co.uk
Pictured is tenant Maureen Watkins with Cath Purdy, Vela Group Chief Executive and Pat Richie, Chief Executive of the Homes and Communities Agency.
Bag it – properly! The windy winter weather led to lots of reports of paper blowing around when recycling is placed out for collection. It’s important to make sure you tightly secure your recycling bags for cardboard and newspapers as the recycling team often find the contents have blown away before they can collect them. Thanks!
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Environment and Housing
Stockton
news
Adults Services
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800 reasons to celebrate
Mrs Sowerby receives her bouquet from Keith Hobbs of Stockton Council’s Telecare Service.
Staff from the Council’s community home alarm service for older residents were pleased to be of service to their 800th client. Megan Sowerby, 86, of Oxbridge was delighted to receive a bouquet to mark the occasion. After Mrs Sowerby fractured her hip in a fall, the Telecare team installed the 24-hour alarm service, giving both her and her family peace of mind. A wide range of services, equipment and sensors can be tailored to individual requirements. To find out more about Stockton Council’s Telecare and Care Call Service please call (01642) 527839 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/telecare
In the swing
Digital countdown: With the switch-off of analogue TV in the region this September, you’ll lose your TV channels if you don’t have a digital receiver by then. Most existing TV sets can be converted using a Freeview box, satellite or cable. If you’re over 75 or eligible disabled, the Help Scheme will write to you to ask if you want help. If you have any questions about the switchover call Digital UK on 08456 505050 or visit digitaluk.co.uk or helpscheme.co.uk or call free on 0800 408 5900, Textphone 0800 4085936.
Over 50? Have your say
Silver Tai Chi participant Tom Greathead enjoys an aerial sling with Vicky Amedume and aerialist Graeme Clint
Participants from ARC’s Silver Activities, aimed at the over 50s, recently had a fantastic time with leading circus and aerial dance company Upswing. Together they tested ideas of what people expected from an older body, exploring aerial cocoons, acrobalance techniques and the feelings of suspension and falling. Upswing’s Artistic Director, Vicki Amedume, believes it’s important to engage with people on many levels – visually, emotionally and intellectually. She said: “The human body is extraordinary. Young people have a lot more opportunity to take risks and play and we wanted to give older people the same.”
Stockton-on-Tees Over-50s Assembly offers this age group a voice in planning and developing services and members are consulted on such things as local heritage, the Health & Social Care Bill, education and leisure.
Membership is open to any Borough resident aged over 50 and meetings are usually monthly with decisions made on a simple majority. To find out more call (01642) 528462 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ over50assembly
The question is… Around 1,200 residents who receive certain health and social care services will, by now, have received an Adult Care Survey from the Council. Its purpose is to improve the way we deliver these services and ensure they meet their needs. Part of a national survey, the results will be used by the Care Quality Commission, the Department of Health and the Council. If you have received a form, please complete and return it as soon as possible.
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Strong Communities
The George Hardwick Foundation carries out a huge amount of great work, right in the heart of Stockton. Here we offer an insight into what it offers.
A firm foundation George’s Place is a well-equipped area for young people, with a Play Station, Wii and even a comfortable 3D cinema room other games, plus a lovely crèche with toys and educational play for the little ones. Thyme Out is a holistic therapy area which exudes peace and tranquillity. Open not only to carers but all members of the public, it offers therapies such as Reiki, reflexology and massage as well as manicures, pedicures, waxing, spray tans and other beauty treatments including GHF’s own brand products. GHF Events offers excellent conference facilities for up to 130 delegates.
Walk into the George Hardwick Foundation (GHF) in Stockton’s Wellington Square and you’ll enter a welcoming, fresh and comfortable building. And that’s just as it should be – for the Foundation is a charity offering help, advice and support for carers. ‘Carers’ are people who, more often than not, care for a close relative who may suffer from debilitating conditions such as cancer, dementia, learning disabilities or drug dependency – literally any circumstance where they need care provided for them. Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, the Princess Royal officially opened the new GHF new base last year. Since then the Foundation has launched several priceless services to people who care for someone. At its previous Bishopton Lane base around five new carers approached the GHF each week for support. Now it’s a staggering seven new carers a day, just a few of the 20,000 – 25,000 carers in our Borough. So what does the building offer? As well as small private rooms, where carers can receive counselling or meet staff to discuss their needs, there are also services:
GHF Support offers advice on benefits, entitlement, change of circumstances, carers and disability living allowances, access to grants for palliative care and even form filling. There’s also help and advice for carers trying to move back into work. Centre Manager Ingrid Brough-Williams said: “Since moving here our success is phenomenal! Now people understand more about what carers need, what we do and how we can help.” GHF is funded by Stockton Council, the Social Enterprise Investment Fund, private donations and income from the four organisations above. Around 18 staff, all experienced in caring or carers themselves, work at the centre along with around 150 volunteers. The Centre is open Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. To find out more about services or volunteering from therapy to admin work, call 0845 302 5523. A smaller GHF Centre is at North Tees Hospital, tel 0845 302 5524.
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Rescue me!
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rehomed a cat nine years earlier from Animal Welfare and he turned out to be such a perfect pet I couldn’t resist Sash, even though we already had an 18-month-old cat, Baxter. “The big concern was whether Baxter would accept Sash. After 24 hours Baxter had stopped hissing at Sash and soon the pair were teaming up to strip the Christmas tree of baubles. Sash learned to open the kitchen door to let them both out making him a big hit with Baxter. “It took three days before Sash voluntarily came out from hiding under the beds but he’s settled down and become a great family pet. I would always recommend a ‘rescued’ cat – Sash, like my two previous rescue cats, is loving and grateful.”
Dog fouling, dealing with stray dogs and animal welfare issues are all part of the work of Stockton Council’s Animal Welfare team. They also take in, and rehome, animals whose owners can no longer look after them. Last year the team rehomed cats,
rabbits, lizards and even ferrets, each with their own story, but here’s one about Sash, who found a home with Council employee Sara West. Sash arrived at Animal Welfare with his brother after their elderly owner died. His brother was re-homed but Sash remained in the cattery for eight weeks. Sara said: “He’s a timid cat but I’d
And Sash, who has been re-named ‘Bashful’, now has his own Twitter account @TabbyBashful where he hopes to encourage more people to take in his friends from the cattery. Animal Welfare has a waiting list of cats needing new homes, and also needs bedding for animals. If you can help visit www. stockton.gov.uk/animalwelfare or call (01642) 526575.
Lighting the way Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board Meetings If you would like any further information on the Stockton Renaissance Partnership Boards, please contact Sarah Upex on (01642) 526498 or email renaissance@stockton.gov.uk Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board 8th May, 5pm, Education Centre 10th July, 5pm, Education Centre Eastern Area Partnership Board 26th April 9.30am, Five Lamps Organisation 29th May 5.30pm, Five Lamps Organisation Western Area Partnership Board 30th April, 6pm at Wilson Centre, Long Newton 28th May, 6pm venue to be confirmed Northern Area Partnership Board Monday 2nd April, 5.45pm Cowpen Training Centre Monday 14th May, 5.45pm Cowpen Training Centre Central Area Partnership Board 26th April, 4pm, Stockton Business Centre 31st May, 10am, Stockton Business Centre
Children from Tilery Primary School had a wonderful time making lanterns, then taking part in their fourth annual evening lantern parade, accompanied by the school choir and The Rhythm Train samba band. Cleveland Police, Durham University students, Sure Start and representatives from local churches all gave support.
You can visit the mycommunity pages on http://www.stockton.gov.uk/mycommunity/
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Strong Communities
Saluting and supporting our se There is a great deal of respect for those who serve, or have served, in the country’s Armed Forces. To demonstrate the Borough’s support, Stockton Council has committed itself to adopting an Armed Forces Community Covenant in partnership with the local Armed Forces community. A Community Covenant is a voluntary statement of mutual support between a civilian community and its local Armed Forces representatives. They complement the national Armed Forces Covenant, which outlines the moral obligation between the Nation, the Government and the Armed Forces. As well as formally recognising the contribution serving personnel, their families and veterans have made, Covenants identify practical measures to help them access support they may require from the Council, charities and other organisations. Armed Forces signatories in turn commit to promoting ties with the local community and offering what support they can.
The Council identified many of the actions which will form the basis of its contribution to the Covenant following a regional scrutiny review into the health needs of ex-service personnel. This award-winning piece of work involved all 12 North East councils and has led to various initiatives across the region. The review found the majority of ex-service personnel successfully make the transition back to civilian life. However it recognised that further work could be done to ensure they did not suffer from disadvantage as a result of their time in the Forces, with particular groups of veterans needing additional support to meet their needs.
key services to ensure we better meet the needs of ex-service residents. Councillors will act as ‘champions’ for ex-service residents, and the health needs of the community will be monitored through the Borough’s Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, produced in partnership with the NHS. Stockton Council will be working closely with the NHS, voluntary groups and charities amongst others. The Royal British Legion is one of the Mayor’s charities which has received his support. To find out more www.stockton.gov.uk/ communitycovenant
Stockton Council has an action plan to assist with health and care needs, housing, employability and communication with and between services. This includes the development of a dedicated section on the Council’s website, a central contact phone number for use by veterans who need additional advice, and increasing awareness amongst
Left to right, Lt-Col Ian Adkins REME, the Mayor of Stockton Councillor Paul Baker, Wing Commander James Pruden RAF and Commander David Pickthall RN with the Community Covenant.
At its Council meeting in December, Stockton Council granted the Freedom of the Borough to both RAF and the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) 1 (Close Support) Battalion. The RAF and the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees have been associated since the 1930s, while the Teesside branch of REME requested the Freedom of the Borough as the Battalion has now made Catterick its home after returning from many years in Germany. Both will be presented with a sealed and illuminated copy of the Freedom resolution.
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ervice personnel Daddies cool! A smart move
Stockton Council is getting smart against the unscrupulous individuals who are stealing the metal signs on war memorials in our Borough.
the SmartWater Foundation, local communities are being helped to locate, log and protect the nation’s war memories in time for Remembrance Day 2014 – the centenary year of the start of World War I.
By applying ‘SmartWater’ – a liquid used to track stolen property which contains ‘DNA-style’ coded information, the crime prevention fluid in invisible once applied, except under ultra violet light.
Pop into the Sunrise Children’s Centre, on Stockton’s Yarm Road on alternate Saturdays and you’ll discover a hive of activity as Dad’s Army – a unique group for all dads, male carers and guardians – enjoy a twohour fun-packed time with their children. With activities following the Early Years schools curriculum, the group is geared towards children up to age five but older siblings are welcome. It’s fantastic for dads and all activities are free as are refreshments and lunch. There are arts and crafts with egg painting at Easter and they’ve had visits from the Fire Brigade, circus
This tough material will withstand burning and melting, making it harder for criminals to dispose of stolen metals.
entertainers and animals. The group even has its own allotment where children learn about growing vegetables – great for dads with no gardens.
The group began as a Sure Start community-led project by Stockton Council but, encouraged to take ownership of the group, that’s exactly what the dads did. They have created a support group where they can chat and help each other overcome obstacles. Each session offers information, advice and guidance on services which may help dads. Dad’s Army next meets on March 31, April 14 and 28 from 11am–1.30pm. To find out more call Alex Lack on 07967 047399 or email alex. lack16@gmail.com
Once applied, it will make memorials uniquely identifiable and has proved highly effective elsewhere in tracking down stolen metal and in tracing the criminals responsible. The Council received a stock of SmartWater from a national project call In Memoriam 2014. In a partnership between the War memorials Trust and
Roger Bannister, President of the Stockton, Yarm and District Branch of the Royal British Legion.
Supporting SSAFA National charity SSAFA (The Soldiers, Sailors Airmen and their Families Association) supporting those who serve in our armed forces - will be holding a ‘Spectacular’ at Stockton Tabernacle on Friday 29 June to coincide with Forces Week. There will be a whole host of entertainment including Soprano Anna Marie Jackson and Bass Eddie Gratton, Stockton Male Voice Choir, Durham Constabulary Male Voice Choir, Cleveland Police Band along with Stockton Boys’ Brigade Drum Corps and a group of local service soldiers who will also perform. Tickets are £10 and will be on sale from May 1 from Stockton Tourist Information Centre and Stockton Tabernacle. Tel (01642) 553666 for more information.
Dads and children enjoying some activities
Life through a lens: Residents on Stockton’s Victoria Estate have embarked on a project to celebrate its history and prepare for its future. Stockton Council and Tristar Homes plan to regenerate the area and have encouraged members of the Stockton African Caribbean Association (SACA) there, to document life over the last decade. SACA have sent questionnaires to all Victoria residents and carried out doorto-door interviews and some filming. Photographs and audio recordings will be transformed into a film and launched alongside a wider exhibition this spring. To get involved contact Herbert Dirahu of SACA on 07916123736 or email hdirahu@hotmail.com The project has been joint-funded by Stockton Council and Tristar Homes Ltd, part of the Vela Group.
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Strong Communities
Our community - Stockton People across Stockton Borough are going the extra mile for their families and communities – often without even realising it. The Evening Gazette’s Community Champions Awards recognised a few of the hundreds of people for their humbling and inspirational efforts.
The winners: Champion Parent – Phyllis Robinson Phyllis, from Eaglescliffe, has given so much of her life to youngsters desperately in need of a home. She has fostered for Stockton Council for 15 years and, before that, for Cleveland County Council for 21 years – around 120 children and young people in all.
Champion Carer – Sharon Love Sharon, from Thornaby, has dedicated her life to caring for her daughter Yasmin. The 12-yearold suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 3, which means she needs a wheelchair and is prone to illness.
Champion Children of Courage – Cydney Bourne Cydney, from Norton, was born 16-weeks early with an extremely narrow windpipe and needed a tracheotomy and reconstructive surgery aged two. However, her windpipe perforated again again in January 2010. She has since underwent further operations but takes it all in her stride.
Champion Children of Courage – Samuel McNeil Born at 24 weeks weighing just 1lb 5oz, Samuel spent months fighting for survival and undergoing heart surgery. He needed an oxygen mask for 18 months and still has chronic lung problems – yet never complains.
The finalists: Champion Fundraiser – Paul Burgum Paul, from Billingham, has completed many charity events – most recently a 480-mile walk from the Okney Islands to Billingham in memory of his late uncle who was murdered. As Managing Director of community interest company BCT Events, he has organised many clubs and events in the area. Young Community Champion – Abbie Reeves Abbie gives up much of her spare time to help people in her community – despite being a carer for her mum. The teenager volunteers at a centre for people recovering from mental health problems, has helped at the University Hospital of North Tees as well as being a mentor at Stockton Sixth Form College.
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n’s Champions Children and Young People’s Champion – Gordon Steel Gordon, from Eaglescliffe, founded the Stockton Youth Theatre and has worked as a lecturer in performing arts at Stockton and Billingham College for 23 years. He has worked with many local stars including Mark Benton, Daniel Casey, Jessica Robinson, Marcus Bentley and Jill Halfpenny.
Champion Carer – Olive Spence Olive has spent decades caring for her husband Ron and son John. Ron, 82, suffered from end-stage dementia, sadly passing away recently after 57 years of marriage. Olive continues to look after her son John who had a motorcycle crash on his 20th birthday – leaving him severely brain damaged.
Community Champion – Grace Turner Stockton teenager, Grace suffers from cerebral palsy and epilepsy – but that doesn’t stop her fundraising. Her achievements include raising thousands of pounds taking part in the Middlesbrough Tees Pride 10k run and raising £250 in a sponsored swimathon.
Stockton Borough is full of inspirational people like these. If you know someone whose story should be celebrated email communications@ stockton.gov.uk so we can consider publishing their story in future editions.
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The bells ring out You may have heard the three-hour peal of the Stockton Parish Church bells on March 20 celebrating the day the church was opened 300 years ago in 1712. Easter Sunday (April 8) will see a celebration of baptism at 10.30am and the church is inviting anyone who has been baptised there to attend and renew their
baptism vows. Between May 14–27, the church will offer a raft of practical advice including DIY, gardening, litter clearance, shopping and transport. July 15 at 10.30am a single service will celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and a service for all those who have been married in the church. There will be an Olympic fun day in the Parish Gardens on a date in July still to be confirmed.
Stockton communities offered share of £30 million Residents living in certain parts of Stockton Borough are being encouraged to join forces with their neighbours to bid for a special Government fund called Community First. Newtown, Norton North, Hardwick, Mandale and Victoria, Norton South, Parkfield and Oxbridge,
Roseworth and Stockton Town Centre are all eligible for £30,000 over the next four years to support projects which will benefit the local area. Each community must set up a panel to set the priorities for each ward and decide which schemes will receive funding. People will then be encouraged to give time, expertise and resources to carry out the projects. For more information visit www.cdf.org.uk/web/guest/ mycommunity Obituary: Frank Cook, who served for years as MP for the Stockton North constituency, died in January aged 76 following his diagnosis of lung cancer last year. He won the Stockton North seat for Labour in 1983. Frank leaves a wife and four children, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren from his first marriage. He had a varied career ranging from a construction engineer, transport manager, gravedigger, a Butlins Redcoat to teaching children with special needs.
SAMM Service: The local branch of SAMM (Support After Murder and Manslaughter) is holding a memorial service, on Sunday 22 April at 2pm at St Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral in Coulby Newham, for anyone who has lost someone in tragic circumstances. Everyone is welcome and will have an opportunity to light a candle. Refreshments will be served after the service.
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Health and Wellbeing
Be active!
Cycling and walking are on the up, thanks to the Stockton Active Travel project. Based in Stockton’s Bridge Road, Stockton Active Travel and the Hub have promoted walking and cycling in the Borough for the past three years. Since then more than 6,000 people have taken part in events ranging from regular guided cycle rides and walks to training, free cycle parking, bicycle recycling and advice. A recent survey participants in the Hub showed 52 per cent more are cycling to work or college several times a week and 35 per cent are walking every day – up from 15 per cent and 46 per cent use their car less.
Pictured is Sheila Buttery from Stockton enjoying a cycle ride
Navigate your way to health Do you need to make some changes to your life but just don’t feel able to, or don’t know where to start? Or are you facing several issues which you know are having a negative effect on your health and wellbeing? Stockton Stockton Service Navigation Project (SSNP) can help! If you live in Stockton and are aged 16 years or over the SSNP can help you take the right steps to make positive changes in your life, by helping you to access local services and offering you support and advice along the way. This could be by helping you to get involved with activities in your local community; discover a physical activity, get the right support to overcome life’s ups and downs by sorting out your finances, exploring employment opportunities, talking to a counsellor or getting parenting support. Whatever your situation the SSNP can help you gain access to the right opportunities and support. So if you would like to take Just One Step then give Dawn Clennett a call on (01642) 647770 or email dawn@ catalyststockton.org
Three out of four new active travellers said they feel fitter
as a result of the project. One lady with osteoporosis has found regular cycling improved her condition so much that she no longer requires medication. 2012 is expected to be even busier with membership set to top 1,000. With plenty of events including the Stockton Cycling Festival in July, there’s never been a better time to take up active travel. Why not pop down to the Hub and give it a try? The Hub is part of Stockton Active Travel, a partnership between sustainable transport charity Sustrans, Stockton Council and NHS Stockton-on-Tees with Big Lottery funding. To find out more call (01642) 803441, or visit www.stockton.gov. uk/thehub or drop in at The Hub, 17 Bridge Road, Stockton High Street.
Be my guide A new service called ‘My Guide’ could transform the lives of blind and partially-sighted people. Run by Teesside and District Society for the Blind with Guide Dogs, My Guide matches blind and partially-sighted people with a volunteer for up to six months. By working together the aim is for the partially sighted or blind person to be able to go out on their own and enjoy activities which they may have had to give up as their sight deteriorated. My Guide is also looking for volunteer guides, who develop new skills through nationally recognised training and would be required to commit to at least two hours per week and are subject to a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. To find out more call Sue Simpson on (01642) 247518.
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Personal Podium is ready for winners Hundreds of Stockton Borough winners could be standing proudly on a special podium in a new Council scheme to encourage residents to achieve their personal goals and you could be one of them. The Personal Podium challenge aims to spur every Borough resident to set themselves a sporting or artistic target and change their life for the better. “It’s all about personal achievement,” said Paralympian Gold Medallist Stephen Miller, who launched the scheme. “People often want to change and improve – I hope Personal Podium will help them choose a goal target and then achieve it. “The Council wants to inspire people to take on a challenge. I think that’s a great aim.” The challenge could be absolutely anything – learning something new, a sporting challenge, maybe losing weight or quitting smoking. The challenge is entirely up to you. Personal Podium will simply help you gain recognition for what you achieve and inspire you to overcome any obstacles. Free to enter, there are four categories: • • • •
Sporting Achievement Cultural and/or artistic Lifestyle Against the odds
The Personal Podium is an opportunity for you to make positive strides towards a lifestyle change and improve your health and wellbeing.
Stephen Miller launches the Personal Podium challenge
On your marks! Here’s how to start To start, simply register your challenge on a special website at www.personalpodium.co.uk then use it to log your progress towards your aim. Then you just need to complete your challenge, or make significant progress towards a longer-term goal, before the end of November. Everyone completing their challenge will be recognised on the Personal Podium website. Those completing outstanding achievements will receive a specially-struck medal in public ceremonies on a podium in Stockton High Street during the Stockton International Riverside Festival
in August and the Stockton Sparkles festival before Christmas. Judges will consider each application on its merits and the personal circumstances of the individual. You can nominate yourself or someone else to enter Personal Podium. Nominations for the August presentations are open until Friday 6 July, or 9 November for those in December. For anyone without internet access, a booklet is available from libraries and Council buildings.
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Health and Wellbeing
We are looking for registered nurses and midwives who want to train as health visitors to help us deliver even better healthcare for children, families and communities. As a trainee health visitor, you’ll gain a fully funded degree in one year or two years part-time and receive a salary whilst training. If you want to help youngsters get the best possible start in life, maybe health visiting could be the career for you...
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Spring 2012
In a puff of smoke
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Staying warm and healthy Vulnerable residents, aged over 75 or who have a disability can be helped to stay warm, and healthy, following the Council’s successful bid for £150,000 to the Department of Health through NHS Stockton-on-Tees.
No Smoking Day in March was a huge success with events held across the Borough to help people to stop smoking. The toxins in smoking will damage your health – but if you want to stop and feel you need support there are several NHS drop-in Stop Smoking Sessions across the Borough, where trained advisers offer one-to-one advice and appropriate prescriptions such as nicotine replacement. You can drop in with no appointment at: Redhill Children’s Centre, Roseworth; Norton Medical Centre; High Flyers Children’s Centre, Tedder Avenue, Thornaby; The Children’s
Star Centre, Bath Lane, Stockton; South Thornaby Community Centre, Havilland Road; Queensway Medical Centre, Billingham; Eaglescliffe Health Centre, Sunningdale Drive; Elm Tree Community Centre, Elm Tree Ave, Stockton; Alma Medical Practice, Nolan Place, Stockton; and Splash, Church Road, Stockton. To find out the drop-in times call the Stockton and Hartlepool Stop Smoking Service on (01642) 383819. Advice is also available on the National NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 1690169. If you want to take the leap and stop smoking you can also find more support at www.stockton.gov.uk/nosmoking
Broadacres Home Improvement Agency is offering a handyperson service; Cleveland Fire Brigade will replace old electric blankets; Go Warm will service and repair boilers. Advice on fuel debt, energy efficiency and fuel switching is available from the Five Lamps Organisation, and benefits available from Stockton & District Advice & Information Centre. AGE UK Teesside is arranging ‘soup and social’ events and exercises, for those over 55. A ‘buddies’ scheme will offer practical support during cold weather, coordinated by the Tees Valley Community Foundation to befriend vulnerable people to ensure they can benefit from the available support.
‘Tis the season… for a spot of flat green bowling in Stockton’s beautiful Ropner Park. From April 16 to September, members of six bowling clubs and other regulars at the Park will take part in this enjoyable sport – and more are welcome. A season ticket costs just £36. For beginners, there’s a ten-week coaching course one day a week for only £15, starting in May. You can borrow bowls free of charge and can hire flat shoes. To find out more call (01642) 583245 or visit www.ropnerparkba.co.uk
To find out more call the Council on (01642) 528215, visit www. stockton.gov.uk/ warmhomes For emergency help with heating outside these hours, call the Fire Brigade 24-hour helpline on (01429) 874063.
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Community Safety
As the dark winter nights drew in, Bright Sparks Day encouraged primary school pupils across the Borough to ditch their school uniforms for a day and dress as brightly as possible. Bight Sparks highlights the need for children to stay safe and ‘be bright, be seen’ when out and about and the youngsters enthusiastically joined in, raising almost £380 for Stockton Guide Dogs in the process. The cash will help pay for reflective and fluorescent sleeves for the guide dogs’ harnesses. They also took part in a lucky dip prize draw for a signed Middlesbrough FC shirt, donated by the club.
A shining example
The lucky winner was a delighted four-year-old Will Gartland from Prior’s Mill Primary School in Billingham, pictured here with Val Hydes and Yoshi of the local Guide Dog office.
Have a think first Police at the top Stockton’s Think B4U Drink (TB4UD) campaign, promoting alcohol awareness and safe drinking messages, showed excellent results in a recent independent evaluation by NWA Social & Market Research. It found an estimated 73 per cent of residents were aware of the campaign, with almost two thirds of respondents asked recalling seeing or hearing advertising.
of alcohol drunk than those who weren’t aware. The evaluation also highlighted points for future campaigns, including addressing the long-term health damage of drinking alcohol and targeting those who ‘pre drink’ at home. To find out more about TB4UD call (01642) 527827.
Did you
know? 394 peop le who re ceived a Section 2, which is a direction to leave, for ‘alcohol re lated diso were ban rder’ ned from entering Stockton town cen tre for up to 48 hou rs, ensuri ng a safe environm Reassuringly, those who r ent for all were aware of TB4UD residents and advertising were a little more visitors. likely to keep check on units
The Cleveland Police website has ranked top in the country for the sixth consecutive time, according to independent web monitor Sitemorse. www.cleveland. police.uk scored top marks on accessibility, function, code quality and performance and was one of the quickest loading websites. All its pages met A-grade accessibility compliance.
Recent figures also show Cleveland Police are top of the table nationally for public confidence, with 64 per cent of residents strongly, or tending to agree, that police and local councils deal with issues that matter to them. Temporary Chief Constable Jacqui Cheer said: “These figures are a tribute to our police officers, police staff and partnership staff who work together to deliver a first class policing service, despite difficult challenges.”
Spring 2012
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Sad passing of Blue Cleveland Police Mounted Section said a sad goodbye to one of their muchloved horses, Blue, (pictured) after he died in January. 22-year-old Blue was a grey Irish draught thoroughbred cross, standing at 16 hands, 3 inches high.
Quizzing our children Educating and highlighting the importance of road safety will always be something we have to teach our children and Stockton Council’s 15th annual Road Safety Quiz proved another hit with youngsters.
booklet and ‘Street Moves’ DVD. St Patrick’s RC Primary School in Thornaby came first, closely followed by Billingham South with Holy Rosary Primary, Billingham, third. All secured their place in the final by attaining the highest average score amongst the 24 schools to enter.
The qualifying rounds saw more than 1,000 Year Six pupils answer questions from the ‘Tales of the Road’
This year’s quiz will have an Olympic theme to complement the London 2012 Games.
A crucial roadshow: 27 schools and more than 1,000 Year Six pupils took up the invitation from Stockton Council’s Road Safety team to take part in Crucial Crew roadshow where, through fun scenarious, youngsters learn about personal safety and how to react in dangerous situations. The shows were a resounding success and the team look forward to presenting another roadshow later this year. New number – 101: You can now call the Police for nonemergency issues such as minor traffic collisions, report criminal damage or speak to a neighbourhood officer on 101. This will enable the emergency services to focus or more important emergency situations. The same personnel police communications centres that take 999 calls will answer calls. Calls cost 15p, whatever time of day or however long the call. You should continue to call 999 in an emergency, when a crime is in progress, there is danger to life or violence is being used or threatened.
For 15 years he had attended many incidents as well as Remembrance Day parades across the area and many Middlesbrough FC games.
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Forum featuring… Billingham Forum Theatre’s forthcoming season is packed with entertainment. April sees 80’s Mania, a concert bringing 25 chart-topping pop icons including tributes to Duran Duran, The Human League, Kim Wilde, Culture Club, Madonna, Wham and many more.
Up and away
Around 150 local people just love being part of a club looking skyward – the local branch of the British Model Flying Association.
The Rat Pack come direct from London’s 02 Arena with the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr bringing the style and excitement of Las Vegas. Irish comedian Dave Young makes his first visit in April. The classical award-winning four-piece boyband Blake are also due in May, with their eclectic mix of classical and pop songs and rich harmony vocals.
Based at Drovers Lane field, Redmarshall, new members are more than welcome.
Hot on their heels is our own Crissy Rock – Back from Benidorm.
All ages can enjoy flying radio-controlled model planes. The club has members aged nine to 80 years, all learning to fly and build planes from kits or from scratch.
For tickets or more information telephone (01642) 552663 www.billinghamforumtheatre.co.uk
To find out more visit www. tmfc.co.uk or email keith. evans1289@ntlworld.com
Rally on down
Before and after One of our ‘Picture the Tees’ photography competition winners last year, Steph Leighton from Bishopsgarth, Stockton, is taking part in a project titled Olympic Babies 2012 as part of her B Tech Extended Diploma in Photography. The Arts Council funded project involves photographing mums-to-be in the later stages of their pregnancy, followed by pictures of their babies once born during the Olympic year. The images will form a major
exhibition in Middlesbrough town centre before being gifted to MIMA for their historical value.
Email becky@profilegallery. co.uk or tel 07903 548435. One of Steph’s pictures is shown above.
For more information contact Profile Gallery who are organising the project in conjunction with MIMA.
Our apologies go to Steph, who we inadvertently renamed ‘Stephen’ in the previous Stockton News.
If old buses, wagons and trucks are your thing, book a date in your diary for June 3. The North East Area of the Historic Commercial Vehicle Society holds its 30th rally. Around 180 historic commercial vehicles depart from the Tees Barrage for the 50 mile rally. To find out more call Barry Summers on 01388 815324.
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White water – white knuckles! Whitewater rafting is no longer at the mercy of the tides here in Stockton – it’s open to all at the Tees Barrage after its £4.6m upgrade, as Jacky Stevely, Stockton News Deputy Editor, and her teammates found out…
The team negotiate the rapids
After two weeks of worrying and several sleepless nights, the bitterly cold day, to actually become a white water rafter, finally arrived. Setting myself up with a chocolate bar for energy I donned my ‘equipment’ for the 300m course – waterproof mascara as well as make up that would need sandblasting off. I could worry about the rest later. Arriving at the Tees Barrage White Water Course I can’t tell you my relief when I learned it wouldn’t be the loneliness of the long-distance canoeist, I’d be in a raft with six others and an instructor. I just passed the first test – manoeuvring into a wetsuit for the
first time with swimwear underneath, as instructed, but I had no intention of going swimming. After going through the safety rules and regs, we set off as I thought: “Don’t show yourself up, resist the temptation to shriek.”
and survived to tell the tale. The activity was thoroughly enjoyable. In fact, fan-tas-tic! With spring just around the corner, it’s a great place to imagine you’re out in the wilds, yet right on our doorstep.
It didn’t work.
On the technical side, the four Archimedes screws which shift 14,000 litres of water a second are a pretty impressive sight too.
Resonating across the Tees Valley, my screams could probably be heard in Osmotherley but, with each encounter of the rapids, my confidence grew. I thought, “I can handle this fine. In fact, it’s brill!” Maybe a bit premature. Despite holding on as instructed - within a split second I was hurled like a rag doll into what felt like a freezing cold washing machine. After a good tumble on ‘quick wash’ I bobbed to the surface
To find out how you could go white water rafting, group rates and even used by hen and stag parties, plus lots of other watersport activities at the Tees Barrage, call (01642) 678000 or visit www.tbiwwc.com Did the mascara hold out? My teammates confirmed ‘yes it did’ – admirably.
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
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Top consultant leads Globe Theatre restoration
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This has enabled a more thorough survey to establish a precise programme of the works required. Dr Wilmore specialises in the restoration of historic theatres and his projects include the historic stage machinery for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera. “The Globe is a real ‘Sleeping Beauty’,” he said. “Its restoration provides a great opportunity to bring this beautiful building back to use.
One of the country’s leading theatre restoration experts has been appointed as restoration consultant for Stockton’s iconic Globe Theatre. David Wilmore (pictured), of Theatresearch historic theatre consultants, recently finished working on the acclaimed restoration of Newcastle’s Theatre Royal and has also led renovations of the City Varieties Music Hall in Leeds and Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond. Last year, Stockton-based Jomast
Developments Ltd announced £4 million restoration plans for its Grade II listed Art Deco building, with support from Stockton Council, as a venue for music, comedy and other events. Built in 1935, it hosted many top music and stage names until the 1970s, finally closing in the 1990s. Jomast has been busy carrying out behind the scenes planning, design and preparation work. The company has made the building watertight below the stage, completed the removal of asbestos and stripped out around 100 skiploads of debris ranging from bingo tables to 1970s tiling and old carpets.
“Both Jomast and the Council have made a significant commitment in reawakening the theatre, which has an important part to play in regenerating Stockton town centre. “In 1935, Great Britain boasted more than 1,200 theatres. The Globe is one of less than 120 to remain. “Its Art Deco architecture creates a wonderful magical theatrical atmosphere and we will be working closely with the Council’s conservation officer, English Heritage and The Theatres Trust to reinstate this sensational auditorium.” Keep up to date and sign up for our e-newsletter at www.stockton.gov.uk/ globe
Celebrate the Olympics in Stockton The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games might be taking place 200 miles away but there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate the Games right here in Stockton Borough. Probably the most high profile event will be the Olympic Torch Relay, which will go through Billingham and Stockton on Sunday, 17 June during its nationwide tour. The Council will be adorning the Borough, and particularly the Olympic Flame route, with Olympic flags, banners and other decorations. On Wednesday 27 June, in the middle of National Sports Week, Stockton residents will be able to take part in a region-wide celebration of the
Games called One Big Event. The idea is for sports to take place in cultural venues – with cultural events held in sports venues, starting at 12:20pm and continuing until 20:12pm. Using the buzz generated by London 2012, the Council is also helping local sports clubs develop the capacity to make the most of increased interest from people inspired to take up a new sport. Bridging the generations will be an event where older people can join in activities around the Olympics on 13 July at Preston Park. From June to August a series of exhibitions and activities will take place in Stockton Central Library to celebrate local, national and international performers since the modern Olympics began in 1896.
The Personal Podium (see page 27) will give you the opportunity to use the games to inspire a personal change and take up a sporting, cultural or lifestyle challenge, or visit www. personalpodium.co.uk SIRF, the 25th Stockton International Riverside Festival from 2–5 August will include ‘Prometheus’, a spectacular performance co-commissioned with Greenwich, one of the Olympic Boroughs, while the Community Carnival will have an Olympic theme. During the Games, from 27 July – 12 August, a giant screen will show the games in action in Parish Gardens, Stockton. Look out for more information about what’s happening across the Borough to celebrate the Olympics in the next edition of Stockton News or visit www. stockton.gov.uk/olympics
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Sk8trs riding high Stockton Council has earmarked funding of £200,000 to match fund future bids to help wheeled sports fans - skateboarders and BMX and scooter riders to realise new facilities in Stockton. Last year, the Council consulted with local fans of these sports to gain a better understanding of their needs and now will work with skaters, riders and potential partners to attract funding to develop a range of facilities and opportunities across the Borough. Proposals include a new major ‘destination’ skate park. One or more smaller neighbourhood skate parks, including one at John Whitehead Park Billingham, are currently being developed with local young people and Billingham Town Council subject to consultation on the final design and securing the necessary funding.
Facilities are most likely to be outdoors however one or more could be indoors and operated privately or by a community group.
awarded the Elm Tree Community Centre a £53,649 grant to operate these at the Centre at weekends over the next 14 months.
The Council will also explore how it might manage certain public areas, including town centres, as potential sites for wheeled sports. For example outside normal trading hours, adding to their vibrancy. It could also develop dirt jumps and small pump tracks for BMX and mountain bikes at country parks or other green spaces.
BMXer Ben Shorttle, 18, a member of the Billingham Youth Forum ‘Stand Up, Shout Out’, said: “It’s fantastic that everyone who has worked so hard has now been heard and we will have somewhere in the future to enjoy this sport without having to travel too far.”
Last autumn, 388 young people completed an on-line survey on wheeled sports and 75 young people and adults attended a workshop session at Stockton Central Library in January to develop ideas. The Council already owns mobile skate facilities and the Community Action Against Crime Innovation Fund recently
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A DAY IN THE
LIFE PENNY SLEE
Throughout her working life, Penny Slee has been surrounded by books and her work ethic and energy belies her many years service – “too many to mention,” she jokes. Based at Stockton’s newly refurbished Stockton Central Library, Penny is the Lending Services Officer and she undoubtedly loves her job. She was there when the library first opened in 1969 and has accumulated many memories over the years. Its closure last year for its £1.9 million refurbishment was an emotional time for her and she was delighted when it reopened, with its state of the art technology marking the start of a new era in library and information services for local people. During Penny’s long service, she has worked in libraries in both Stockton and Middlesbrough and has many stories to tell. “There’s never a dull moment with lots of variety,” she says. She can be reading at a storytime one moment then working with an ESOL (English as a second language) group the next. Saturdays are her favourite, with children’s storytime in the morning, then drop-in craft activities. She says: “It’s a pleasure to see parents and grandparents with the little ones.” Penny ensures the library’s smooth daily running, helping and advising members of the public, making sure enough staff are on duty, both in Stockton Central Library and in the branches where she organises relief cover. It all requires time, energy and
commitment – which Penny has in abundance. She remembers greeting visiting author Jack Shepherd with a mop in one hand and a bucket in the other, having hastily cleaned up an unfortunate accident at the entrance doors, just in the nick of time!
“If you haven’t yet stepped foot into Stockton Central Library, please do – you’ll be more than pleasantly surprised!” Recently, a man from elsewhere in the region complemented Penny and her staff, saying: “What gorgeous ladies here – they all have their own teeth, not like in my local library!” Stockton Central Library has no less than 55 computers available for public use, several specially adapted for people with visual impairments. Members can borrow up to 20 books, plus audio and e-books, a service also available in the Borough’s other community libraries.
The Library is also now a focus for many other services, where residents can pay bills and report problems in the new Customer Services Centre. In the light and spacious upstairs area you can relax in peace and tranquillity and visit Starbooks Café. In her spare time Penny loves nothing better than walking in the Lakes, (a “total de-stresser”), watching rugby, supporting her beloved Newcastle Falcons and England when she can, reading crime novels and spending time with her grandchildren. She speaks highly of her colleagues: “I have worked with, and still do, absolutely fantastic people. I’d like to thank them for their support and friendship over the years.” Penny says “If you haven’t yet stepped foot into Stockton Central Library, please do – you’ll be more than pleasantly surprised!” The Customer Services Centre is open 8.30am–5pm Mondays to Thursdays, 8.30am– 4.30pm Fridays and 9.30am– 12.30pm Saturdays. The Central Library is open at the same times and stays open until 6pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4pm on Saturdays and 11am–4pm on Sundays.
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
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Sirf reaches silver! Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) is 25 years old this year and we want your memories.
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A fine time in China
Over the years some truly wonderful spectacles have thrilled audiences. If you have photographs, or some old memorabilia, these could be part of a fantastic exhibition being put together by the Council as festival organiser. If you have something for the exhibition pop into the Tourist Information Centre in The Shambles or email arts@ stockton.gov.uk and include as much information as you can about your pictures. We will return all photographs provided you supply your name and address. SIRF 2012 takes place from 2 - 5 August - visit www.sirf.co.uk over the coming months for more information.
Picture courtesy of Gary Walsh Photography
Ten years ago in 2002 the Angie Hiesel installation from Germany certainly puzzled the crowds.
Ten of Stockton’s finest young musicians recently helped thousands of Beijing residents to welcome in the Year of the Dragon – Teesside style!
Spring Carnival. Since the Wildcats’ first visit there in 2002, Chaoyang District and Stockton Council have worked closely together, exchanging artists, musicians and performers to learn and work together.
Local bands The Wildcats of Kilkenny, Cattle and Cane (pictured) and Young Rebel Set joined traditional musicians in the annual Beijing Chaoyang International
This year’s Stockton International Riverside Festival Stockton’s will celebrate our relationship with Beijing, with plans afoot to give SIRF visitors a very special Chinese spectacle.
A fab ‘Weekender’
Red poppy, an all-girl drumming group from China perform to a packed High Street in 2003.
Once again there will be music and entertainment aplenty at this year’s Weekender which takes place 3 - 5 August. With bands from near and far there’s sure to be something for absolutely everyone! Make a date for your diary for this fantastic music festival and we’ll see you there!
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
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Park preparations progress Oh what a night!
The £7million redevelopment of Preston Park and the Museum is nearing completion, with the its summer 2012 reopening now clearly on the horizon.
The work is transforming the restored Grade II listed Hall to showcase its varied collection in a modern and dynamic way. Future visitors will be able to explore the history of Preston Hall and its park and marvel at many hitherto unseen objects, including nationally important paintings, impressive 16th century weapons and two rare but delightful armorial bowls (pictured below).
entertained.
Across the land on the night of Monday 23 April half a million books will be given away in libraries, pubs, shops and factories.
The music room with stripped floor ready for relaying
Restoration of the original kitchen garden and orchard, once a highlight of a 19th Century estate, will enable visitors to experience the life of a Victorian gardener and follow the trials and tribulations of growing traditional and often bizarre plant varieties. The Hall & Kitchen Garden project has been made possible through £3.8 million of Heritage Lottery Funding in addition to capital investment through Stockton Council.
A new addition to the ever-popular Victorian Street will be the Watson & Brigham Tearooms and many other new facilities and activities will keep visitors of all ages
Made in the Park 2012 sees the return of the hugely successful ParkMade range of traditional crafts and activities in and around the Museum and Park. You can try something new or rekindle an old hobby through a diverse range of courses and taster classes from traditional artisan baking to stained glass windows. The season begins in July with wood carving, blacksmithing classes and Victorian pottery days. Courses include all materials and lunch and gift vouchers are also available. For details or to book early call (01642) 527820.
In the park, a range of improvements has included a new adventure playground. To find out more about the exciting redevelopment at Preston Park, visit www. stockton.gov.uk/prestonhall
Around 1,000 of those books will be in Stockton Borough as World Book Day is celebrated. You are invited to join in as books specially published for the event, including the classic A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, will be handed out across the Borough. The evening will kick off at library venues around the Borough with the History Wardrobe performing ‘Florence Nightingale – The Respectable Rebel’ at Stockton Central Library. This will be followed by a quiz on Charles Dickens and his novels. For more information about what happens on the night call Claire Pratt, Reader Development Officer on (01642) 528044 or email readers@stockton.gov.uk
Book buddies begin Stockton Central Library has joined Norton Library in offering a ‘book buddy’ scheme, where volunteer reading buddies will be there to help blind and visually impaired people find the right books and formats and to chat about the books themselves. Reading Buddies will be at Stockton Central Library on Tuesdays from 10.30am– 12.30pm and Thursdays 1–3pm and at Norton Library on Wednesdays from 1–3pm.
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Diary date
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All day music! The three-day Stockton Calling music festival is set to make Easter weekend by rocking the town centre. This year sees a new fifth venue with an acoustic stage at The Vault joining others at KU Bar, The Georgian Theatre, ARC and the Sun Inn. As Stockton News went to print Teesside’s own Young Rebel Set were announced as headliners in their spiritual KU Bar home, joined by Collectors Club, The Purnells, Goy Boy McIlroy, The Unsung Heroes and The Rise. Headlining at the Georgian is King Charles as well as the unmissable Weird Shapes, Bird Island Temujin, The Bluebuds and Huntsville will also grace the Georgian Theatre stage with the Woven Project appearing at The Sun whilst headlining at ARC is five-piece Yorkshire band The Pigeon Detectives. Also apperaring at The Sun Inn will be USA multi instrumentalist Laura Gibson. Tickets are £12 in advance or £15 on the day. Book online www.arconline.co.uk or call (01642) 525199 or buy them in person at ARC Box Office or Green Dragon Studios. For more announcements visit facebook.com/stocktoncalling
Dancer from Chile – Easter Island
A £38,5000 National Lottery grant, through Arts Council England, helped extend last year’s Billingham International Folklore programme of fantastic dance groups from across the globe. For the 2012 festival, which takes place from 1018 August, organisers hope to expand on its contemporary dance programme along with colourful traditional dance, with groups from Columbia, Easter Island (Chile), Guadeloupe and Russia already confirmed. For full details visit www. billinghamfestival.co.uk
Young Rebel Set
Sign on the line for a challenge The Stockton Cycling Festival runs from 6-8 July with a whole host of events for everyone from beginners to elite riders to either join in or watch. A festival event open to all, whatever their ability, is the Stockton Endeavour Sportive on Saturday 7 July. This is a non-competitive challenge with a choice of four road courses ranging from 35 to 94 miles. If you go on-line now you might be one of the first 100 to sign up and receive a
£10 early bird discount off the normal £25 entry fee visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ cyclingfestival The Pigeon Detectives
Other discounts are available for groups of five or more - call Andrea Hogg on (01642) 524598. A programme of other activities will include a host of supporting family events, breathtaking displays and demonstrations, plus superfast televised professional competitions on spectatorfriendly courses around Stockton Town Centre. See page 42 for details
King Charles
Mark Morriss
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46
Children and Young People
College focus
Left to right Dan Fordy, Sian Cameron and Shaun Smith.
Giving students a flying start in the jobs market with the work skills for potential employers is at the top of the list for learners at Stockton Riverside College (SRC). Amongst the many success stories from the college are three students taking the apprenticeship route to enhance their chances of securing a job in the long term. Shaun Smith and Daniel Fordy are forging their way through their Level 3 Apprenticeship in Joinery and making a real impression at Interserve, a world-leading support services and construction company. The pair are based in Middlesbrough where the Director, David Flewker, started his career as an apprentice. Both are involved with two of the company’s biggest local projects at South Tees Hospital and Teesside University, gaining fantastic work experience and industrial skills.
College Lecturer Paul Longmore said: “Their work is of a very high standard and they’ve taken great pride in their theory and practical learning. They are two of the best apprentices we’ve had the pleasure of working with.” Sian Cameron, a former Business Administration Apprentice the College, started her career at NETA Training Services where, from her beginnings as Receptionist six years ago, she recently gained promotion to Management Confidential Secretary. Sian originally applied for a full-time Business Administration course at SRC after working abroad and looked at her options before deciding on taking an apprenticeship. She said: “To anyone considering an apprenticeship programme, I’d say ‘go for it’. “Apprenticeships are a great way to start a successful career. You earn while you learn and gain a nationally recognised qualification.
“The support I received at SRC was second to none. Each and every positive step during the last seven years of my career has been as a result of that very first interview at the college.” Learners can raise their stakes and prove their people skills and commitment to a future employer by becoming a Student Ambassador. Melissa Henderson and Amber Corney are studying Art and Design through a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma. Melissa said: “I enjoy helping people, which is a priority as an Ambassador. The experience gives me the opportunity to build on people skills.” Amber added: “My time as an Ambassador has boosted my confidence, helping me prepare for University.” To find out more about what Stockton Riverside College can offer call (01642) 865400 or visit www. stockton.ac.uk
Private fostering and YOU Private Fostering is very different from the care of children local councils provide through approved foster carers. It occurs when an adult that is not a relative looks after a child under 16 (under 18 if disabled) for more than 28 days and is a private arrangement between parent and carer. This arrangement could be due to factors such as children living with a friend’s family after separation, divorce or arguments at home, children coming from abroad to access education and health systems or teenagers living with the family of a boyfriend or girlfriend. It does not refer to children on weekend or holiday visits. The Council’s Children’s Social Care team is not involved in making private fostering arrangements but is responsible for checking these are suitable for the child or young person. They must therefore be notified of any arrangements as the Council has a legal duty to assess the situation and provide support and advice to parents and private foster carers. The law says anyone who is aware of a child or young person being privately fostered, or thinks one may be, must let the Council know. This helps protect children against abuse or neglect and provides some reassurance that the child is being looked after properly. You can find out more or notify the Council about private fostering by calling the First Contact Team on (01642) 527764, Minicom (01642) 527769. For more information about private fostering visit www.stockton. gov.uk/fostering and www. privatefostering.org.uk
www.twitter.com/stocktoncouncil
Spring 2012
Page 47
Fostering and adoption campaign wins national award A Stockton Council campaign called ‘Put Yourself in the Picture’ has won the title of best campaign in this year’s Association of Social Care Communicators (ASCC) Awards. The awards recognise best practice in social care communication throughout the UK and are a chance for all social care communicators to promote their best work. Full of praise for Stockton’s entry, the judges said: “Despite the high quality of all the entries this year, we considered this the clear winner due to the consistent, strong message using excellent and appropriate imagery. “We liked the good use of the children’s pictures and the very effective and excellent work achieved in placing the campaign appropriately with good, solid evaluation to support the campaign’s effectiveness.”
The ‘Put yourself in the Picture’ recruitment campaign has generated 242 fostering enquiries and 70 adoption enquiries in the past year, more than double the number received last year. Jackie Ward, Stockton Council’s Child Placement Team Manager, said: “We are so pleased with the year we’ve had and the recognition the fostering and adoption service has received. “And we are so grateful to our foster carers for all the commitment and hard work they have put in to fostering over the past year. “However, as the number of children in care continues to rise, we need more people to come forward and foster or adopt so please do get in touch if you think you can make a difference.” For more information about adoption or fostering call (01642) 526218 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/adoption or www. stockton.gov.uk/fostering
Pictured is Foster Carer Phyllis Robinson receiving the award for Stockton
The Council’s adoption service was highlighted in Ofsted’s Annual Report for its ‘Outstanding’ rating as one of only seven local authority adoption agencies to receive a top judgement. The report draws on more than 31,000 inspection visits across the schools, early years, children’s social care and learning skills sectors in England.
New North Shore Health Academy takes shape Construction has started on a multi-million pound combined Academy and state-of-the-art youth facility in Stockton. Pupils from the NHS Stockton sponsored North Shore Health Academy and nearby Tilery primary school helped get the work under way at a special sod-cutting ceremony. Carillion Construction Limited has been appointed to construct the new Government funded £17.8 million building which will be ready for young people to start learning there by next spring. It will see North Shore Health Academy and myplace working in tandem under management of the Academy – sharing facilities and complementing each other’s services.
The combined Academy and youth facility on land off Norton Road will provide students with high quality learning facilities in a building which is fit-forpurpose Graham Prest, Chair of Governors for North Shore Health Academy said: “The new building will be a first-class facility which will not only benefit the young people of north Stockton but also their families.
• Lecture Theatre • Large open space at its heart for large presentations and group work • Provision of ICT in each department, bringing ICT into the heart of each area of the syllabus • Bespoke facility for
students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) • Bespoke Art facility with external work area • Floodlit 3G football pitch for day and night use • 4 Football Pitches and 6 MUGAs (multi-use games area)
“It will provide flexible, modern and comfortable learning spaces while also helping us to provide a vast range of opportunities for people of all ages to learn, improve their lifestyles and play a more active role in their communities.” Facilities will include: • Open learning environment with additional classrooms
Children from Tilery Primary and North Shore Health Academy. Picture courtesy of Chapman Brown Photography
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Children and Young People
Double delight
Saving cycles Some great work is going on behind the scenes as young people breathe new life into old bikes at various places across the Borough and at a permanent workshop at Elmwood Community Centre.
Rachel Highfield
Chloe Loredo
Two local Tees Active Sports Academy members are delighted at being selected to compete at the UK School Games in May at the Olympic Stadium in London. Rachel Highfield, will be competing in the 200m and the relay whilst Chloe Loredo contests the 800m. The UK School Games is the largest and most inclusive multi-sport event for the nation’s most talented young athletes.
Going on a journey Ensuring childcare providers such as nurseries and childminders are the best they can be is at the heart of a programme called ‘A Journey to Outstanding’. The Council programme, designed to raise standards, offers a high quality curriculum for the education and care of young children and those who take part are clearly demonstrating their commitment to excellence. The Council is working closely with around 47 childcare providers and 13 childminders who have signed up to the programme to ensure all of the Borough’s young children achieve the best start in life. If you are a childminder or provide childcare and would like to find out more, call the Families Information Service on (01642) 527225.
School Games As London 2012 approaches, schools across the Tees Valley will be taking part in the national 2012 Schools Games competition. In-school events will culminate in a grand Tees Valley celebration in mid-July.
Over the past year, Stockton Council has been working closely with local childminders to establish an accredited Childminder Network. This will promote excellent childcare in a home setting to local parents and the childminders and will be the first in the Borough to offer free nursery entitlement for two, three and four-year-olds. 15 childminders rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ have been recruited to the Network, each agreeing to take part in the Council’s quality assurance programme ‘A Journey to Outstanding’.
As part of ASDAN (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network, a national charity), young offenders and youngsters are taking on a new challenge in a cycle reclamation project, learning about bike parts, the tools used, practical cycle maintenance skills and road safety. Supported by the Council and Police, the scheme also helps them build up their confidence and self-esteem. The ASDAN award recognises their work, as each is expected to complete at least ten hours of voluntary work, repairing old bikes donated by Cleveland Police, then complete a personal statement to sum up their achievement. To find out more about the scheme, call Project Worker, Kevin McCabe on 07826 903129 or email Kevin. mccabe@stockton.gov.uk
The Council is keen to increase membership and any childminders interested in applying or who would like further information should call (01642) 527225.
The project, which involves all the local councils as well as Sport England, the University of Teesside and many sports and coaching organisations, aims to raise the number of young people taking part in sport and sustain their involvement to achieve their personal goals. For details visit www. teesvalleysport.co.uk
Zak Kernan aged 12 works on a bike.
www.facebook.com/stocktoncouncil
Spring 2012
Thornaby Academy shines
Artist’s impression
The future is bright for young people and staff at Thornaby Academy.
performances, dining and flexible teaching spaces.
A year and a half after it opened,the Academy is looking forward to significant investment in its buildings as learning goes from strength to strength.
Principal of Thornaby Academy, Maryssa O’Connor, said: “We are all very excited about the improvements which will certainly further support our young people’s learning as well as raising aspirations among both pupils and the wider Thornaby community.”
In its first Ofsted report, inspectors said the Academy had made “good progress towards raising standards” and “in almost all classes there is a calm atmosphere for learning with students exhibiting positive attitudes and a keenness to do well.” Meanwhile, Carillion is due to start building a new Business and Enterprise (BETA) Centre later in April thanks to £5.5 million from the Government’s Academies Programme. The BETA Centre will lead into a heart shaped space for whole-school assemblies,
The Teesside University sponsored Academy will also gain four remodelled and refurbished learning hubs, a new Open Learning Centre and a post-16 hub as well as significant investment in ICT provision. Stockton College Consortium, involving both Stockton Sixth Form College and Stockton Riverside College, along with Stockton Council, co-sponsor the Academy. Off the wall: Artistic young people have created a mural showing young people through Stockton’s ages. The graffitistyle mural was designed after young people at Stockton’s Chill Zone youth centre, on Bishopton Lane, researched local heritage then worked with an artist to bring their design to life. The project was funded by Stockton Council’s townscape heritage scheme.
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Award for MYP Matthew In the last issue of Stockton News we told you about 15-yearold Matthew Wilson (pictured) in his role as a new Youth MP. Matthew has since been working towards his Youth Voice Award which he received in February. This included a three-day Annual Sitting in Leeds with 450 other MYPs from around the country, visiting youth clubs and consultations into skate park provision. He’s also worked with young people across our Borough on the Make Your Mark Ballot, which fed onto the UK Youth Parliament House of Commons Live televised debate in November. You can email Matthew at matthewmyp@hotmail.co.uk
Take the lead If you are aged 18-25 and want to learn skills, find friends, get fit and learn to cook then Stockton Parent Support welcomes you to take part in a Sports Leaders Award. The course began in February but it’s not too late to take part. To find out more call (01642) 674238 or email stocktonps@ yahoo.co.uk or visit www. stocktonps.org
Lottery luck Local registered children’s charity - Eastern Ravens Trust - is only one of five projects to be featured in The National Lottery’s own publicity showing its good causes. To find out more about the Trust email info@ easternravenstrust.org (01642) 678454.
news Stockton
50
Your Council
Budget plans for commitment, Around now, Councils across the country are reviewing their financial plans and setting their budgets and Council Tax for the coming year. For Stockton, balancing these remains very difficult, as the national cutbacks in public spending mean we have had to remove £30 million from our budgets over recent years. Inflation and continually growing demand for our services means we face both falling income and rising costs. In particular, the numbers and costs of children in care are rising, demand for social care is increasing and energy and waste disposal costs are soaring.
the Council made the difficult decision to raise Council Tax by 3.49 per cent for the coming year. Our financial plan for the next five years, whilst extremely challenging, allows us to continue with our ambitious plans for the Borough.
Looking ahead, we still face a projected £11 million budget gap by 2016, with many uncertainties about our future funding.
A plan for the long term, it allows us as far as possible to protect our first class services and facilities, safeguard services for vulnerable people and continue to drive forward our ambitious regeneration plans.
Bridging the gap will be very tough to achieve. That’s why
Here we explain the basis for our future plans.
Strategic Approach Sound financial planning is, and always will be, at the heart of what we do. Unfortunately, the Government’s council tax freeze grant was for one year only. Accepting it would have left a huge shortfall to make up in following years. To get back on track, we would have needed at least a 7 per cent Council Tax rise next year, or accept a permanent cut in our funding base for vital services and facilities. We think neither is acceptable, so the Council made the difficult decision to stick with its original plans with gradual, measured increases in Council Tax over the medium term. We still have the third lowest Council Tax rates in the North East and this year’s increase represents just 55p a week for Band A homes (almost half those in our Borough). Most importantly, it means we can, as far as possible, continue our exciting regeneration plans, safeguard our vulnerable people and protect first class services and facilities.
We have a strong history of careful financial management and providing excellent value for money. The Audit Commission recognised this, naming Stockton as one of only three councils nationwide to achieve its highest rating for use of resources. We will continue this way of working, even when it means difficult decisions such as this Council Tax decision.
Uncertainties and pressures Setting the budget this year has been particularly challenging because of a level of uncertainty and demand for our services never seen before. The Government has already said it will further reduce public sector funding up to 2017. There remains much uncertainty about future funding levels and proposals to change the way local government is funded. Soaring power and waste disposal costs and rising demand for social care services present huge challenges. We need to be able to build in resilience to meet these.
Spring 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk
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, ambition and sound finances We know these challenges are coming and we cannot ignore them. We already face an estimated £11.6 million budget gap by 2016/17. Taking the one-year only Council Tax freeze grant would add £3m to this.
climate, we are focusing our investment on helping the economy, supporting jobs and improving the Borough as a place to live. We are proud to deliver first-class frontline services and want to retain and develop these.
Doing all we can These challenges are not taken lightly. We are doing absolutely everything we can to deliver value with your money.
Likewise we will continue to invest in schemes and use available resources to attract additional funding from outside bodies. For example, our recent investment of £600,000 in the Parkfield GoWarm scheme has attracted £6 million of private funding to help reduce fuel poverty in central Stockton (see page 12). Some households are already saving up to £700 a year on their fuel bills.
Over the last three years we have already saved £20 million and reduced our workforce by more than 600, through detailed efficiency reviews of all services, structured to deliver innovation and transformation as well as efficiency. Our long term financial planning approach has allowed us the time to identify the best solution for each service, even where this has required fundamental structural change. We are also making sure we make the best use of our financial resources and the buildings we own. Clearly, we can’t use our one-off resources to shore up ongoing services – the money would soon run out. Instead we are doing all we can to identify where we can invest our resources in a way which can save us money in the long run.
opportunities through work experience and apprenticeships. We will also provide apprenticeship opportunities across a range of Council services. Signs of our commitment to regenerate Stockton and Billingham town centres will soon be clear as we start on site. This will happen alongside our work to renew housing at Victoria Estate and Swainby Road in Stockton, as well as existing schemes at Mandale, Hardwick and Parkfield.
Weekly bin collections, clean and safe streets, prize-winning parks and open spaces and an exciting events programme are important not just because they make the Borough a great place to live and visit. This sense of pride in place is a vital ingredient in attracting businesses and investment here, such as the new developments by car parts manufacturer Nifco and the Clipper Project at Wynyard.
We are also proposing to invest a total of £5.3 million in a range of areas, including honouring a promise to create a new Library and Customer Service Centre for Billingham, providing skateboard and bike track facilities and helping bring empty homes back to use.
For example, investment in Piper House and Ayton Place, two new children’s homes, will mean we can provide safe places for vulnerable children to live locally and save significant amounts of the £7 million we spend each year on this service. We will continue to look for opportunities to use our resources to make sensible, safe investments in services which will generate ongoing savings.
Commitment and ambition
We must continue providing first class support to our schools and colleges and meet the growing demands on our social care and public health services to protect vulnerable people.
We retain enormous pride in our Borough and have great ambitions for ongoing regeneration. In the current economic
We will work with businesses to help young people into employment by creating and supporting new job
We have again been able to protect our voluntary and community sector investment budgets and to fund our annual £400,000 Community Participation Budget for a further three years to provide local improvements in every ward in the Borough. We are determined to do all we can to meet our very serious financial challenges whilst protecting our vulnerable and, as far as possible, protecting our first class services and facilities and driving forward our ambitious regeneration plans.
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Your Council
Keeping our customers satisfied Since November the new state-of-the-art Stockton Customer Services Centre in the town’s Central Library has seen around 7,000 customers visiting each month to access a wide range of services including housing benefits, trading standards and environmental health to, name just a few. It’s our second such facility following the success of the similar one at Thornaby Library. Highly trained staff offer advice on a
wide variety of different services, providing general information and a range of literature to take away. If you don’t have time to wait, there’s a range of self-service facilities including PCs and telephones. Facilities are designed to create a positive experience for customers, whose comments praise ‘very helpful staff’, ‘fantastic service’ and the ‘impressive design’. The Cash Office, previously based in Municipal Buildings, is also now in the new centre. For more details visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ customerservices
Stockton Council’s social care services First Contact Centre for adults and children has also moved, from Wrensfield House to High Newham Court, Hardwick. It offers advice and helps people access services for children and families, elderly people or those with a visual impairment or physical or learning disability. The telephone number (01642) 527764 is unchanged.
30 Years of Stockton News! Strong Communities
Stockton
30
Seeing red!
designing cards for other crafters to make, using the skills and confidence gained from the course.
Over the past seven years Barbara Alderson has been making and selling crafts and cards to raise funds for the Butterwick Hospice.
Sue Appleton, Tees Achieve Subject Leader for Art, Crafts and Digital Media, said: “Barbara gained lots of new skills over her 10week course. It’s fantastic an that she is using these in the enterprising way to help local community.”
After attending a Tees Achieve course in Photoshop Elements at Billingham Community Centre, Barbara is now producing her own card designs to sell on the internet. a The cards have gone down storm and Barbara has been able to sell hundreds in a short time – boosting the the amount she can raise for hospice.
If you see a red chair – don’t be surprised – it’s all part of the Evening Gazette’s Talk Up campaign to find out what you think makes our region so special.
Eaglescliffe, Hemlington, Marske, Norton, Central Middlesbrough, South Bank and Faifield.
The idea is to find out what’s happening in local areas – and champion the great people and places in various corners of the Teesside community.
You can also read Stockton News online – visit www.stockton.gov. uk/stocktonnews click on ‘more news’ and you’ll find Stockton News on the left. We also record an audio CD version of the magazine for our blind and partially sighted residents. To obtain a copy call Jacky Stevely on (01642) 526098 or email jacky.stevely@stockton.gov.uk
Tees Achieve boosts hospice fund-raising
The first 20 location to feature in the campaign are Normanby, Billingham, Linthorpe, Redcar, Ingleby Barwick, Berwick Hills, Nunthorpe, Thornaby, Beechwood, Loftus, Central Stockton, Thorntree, Eston,
28 Stockton News
January /
February 2010
Page 29 Stockton News
A DAY IN THE
LIFE STEVE LASKEY
One man who walks around 2,000 miles a year to help others to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle is Steve health worker, Laskey, for the Council’s Sports Development team.
board Come on A sail Mir, a Class
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Races 2010
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Training International
s will be needed volunteer up to 200 of the event. 2010 and smooth running Ships Races help in the visit: www. each day to a volunteer the to in becoming n follow links interested If you are 010.com and nd an online applicatio ltallships2 you will fi can also be hartlepoo s page, where for all volunteer posts volunteer n descriptio form. A job found there.
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In 2003 the Council started Stepping Out in Stockton, a programme of health walks to encourage people to take simple steps, get active and improve their health. It
changing boasts showers, local football facility now the seven match The £230,000 a new building for facilities for in plus changing for spectators. and toilets use the ground, disabled facilities teams who a toilet with residents’ officials and football groups, and after local ward members took shape Town Council, The project in 2003. ns, Thornaby a steering group associatio formed Stockton Council
Meet a ter crime wri
general feeling of better health and wellbeing.
March / April
who freely give their time to ensure the scheme is such a success.
Steve, 47, says health is just one of the reasons people take part in “I also organise the walks. regular ‘away days’ to places such As he explains: as Durham and walkers come “Our Castle to make Barnard from a the most of wide range the region’s of different natural beauty. background These regularly s and attend attract for all kinds around 70 walkers,“ of reasons. For he said. some, it’s for exercise, for others it’s to And leading help manage several walks their weight. a day means Some attend Steve purely as a certainly covers social event – to have a chat the miles. and get out of the house. Whatever the reason, “My record they are a committed is five bunch and will turn up walks in in the most atrocious conditions. one day and I cover “On almost around every walk we have someone 2,000 who has a story about miles a how much the walking year.” has improved their health, either physical
2010
Page 35
news
Arts, Culture and Leisure
environment.
Rats take to the Tees!
Exercise is good for everyone but experts hail walking, in particular, as the ‘almost perfect exercise’. Regular walking many long-term brings health benefits – reducing the
risk
stories. You can find out more Up about the Tees Pride Talk campaign by visiting www. gazettelive.co.uk/talkup Complete the online questionnaire to say what you love best about your local area and what we should be proud of. You can also suggest community ambassadors by emailing talkup@eveninggazette.co.uk
Jan 2010.indd
and old Raising funds for young older Nearly £6,000 was raised for the Mayor of Stocktonon-Tees’ Benevolent Fund at the Mayor’s annual charity dinner dance. Councillor Paul Kirton, Mayor of Stockton and the Mayoress, Mary Kirton, hosted the ball at the Wynyard Rooms.
So far the Mayor’s fund
has supported both and younger people in the Borough through an Active for Life Group for the older residents of Queen’s Park Housing Estate; music events; sporting activities such as football, rugby, rowing and air golf; groups of girl guides, cadets and disabled children in the area as well as assisting projects in Canada, Africa and Uganda.
news
In Steve’s spare he spends time time in the countryside near his Great Ayton home, exploring the North Yorkshire where he also Moors, works as an assistant ranger North Yorkshire for the National Park. Moors To find out more about health walks, contact Steve Laskey on (01642) 526692 or email steve.laskey @ stockton.go v.uk
In a first for Stockton and the UK, hardy souls had great fun running, kayaking, swimming in the Tees and walking the plank off the Endeavour on Stockton’s Riverside.
January/Februa ry 2010
Steve has worked for the Council for two years. Normally his day starts in the office before pounding the Borough’s pavements on his first walk of the
Christmas wishes
Local children’s artistic skills are helping bring festive cheer to people who use the Library home delivery service by making and sending them Christmas cards.
The bus visits readers who are not able to visit their local library. Children from several primary schools including Christ the King, Thornaby; Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe; Holy Trinity CofE Juniors, Fairfield; Rosebrook, Roseworth; and St John the Evangelist, Billingham will
make around 350 cards in total. Debbie Henderson, Library Home Delivery Officer, said: “Our borrowers are always delighted to receive the cards, which add an extra special touch to our visits.”
Some of the cards children made in 2009.
On the wild side Saltholme Wildlife Reserve, off the A178 between Billingham and Seaton Carew, has two new projects thanks to a £10,000 donation from Santander. A new pond dipping area will let
The commu
nity magazi
ne of Stockto
n Borough
Council
families gather wildlife and find out about the creatures before returning them to the pond. New educational spaces are already helping school groups learn about wildlife and their habitats.
New art retail space Customers at ARC, Dovecot Street, can now view and buy original art at a new ground floor exhibition space for local artists. Last year ARC attracted more than 100,000 visitors, making it an ideal location for artists to display and sell their work. Local artists can sell jewellery, small sculptures, glass and ceramic work, photographic prints and original artwork at prices from £10 - £100.
15:02:17
Stoc News Jan
Stoc News
The police Youth Prevent conference as part of the Government’s ‘Prevent’ strategy, which aims to prevent people or from becoming terrorists supporting violent extremists. Schools across the Tees Valley took part in the conference take which saw young people part in a series of informative and challenging workshops.
or mental. It’s extremely rewarding to know you are, in some way, helping them.”
of coronary day. Pauline heart disease, strokes, high thriller writer the blood pressure, Exciting includes type II diabetes, “We run at whose work least bowel mysteries Rowson, cancer and one walk every d marine the developmen visits day, of osteoporosi Hampshire-base e D I Horton, t meet at a regular s. Detectiv Tuesday, venue, register featuring Library on and sign the The short-term walkers, discuss Ingleby Barwickto give a talk is benefits (11am) include route and then the so booking March 16 we’re e strengthweight loss, better are limited off. We rely and mobility, heavily on books. Placesfree tickets are availabl improved mood our volunteer – Library walk essential and a n Borough a fantastic group leaders, at any Stockto February 15. For of people on Monday from Claire Pratt details, call 528044. (01642)
18/01/2010
You can find Barbara’s craft making sheets at www. craftsuprint.com
As the temperatures cool we can always cheer ourselves up with the warm memories of the summer’s River Rat Race. If you missed the action on the day Channel 4’s documentary, aired in October, was a great reminder of how the 700 competitors really put their heart and soul into the 10km adventure race.
“My record is one day and five walks in I cover aroun d 2,000 miles a year.” proved so popular that, six years later, Steve and a team of volunteer walk leaders now lead 11 weekly and four fortnightly walks across the Borough.
offer.
Look out for Tfm’s presenter Wayne Allen who is heading local out on the road to meet people to hear their local
Teens prevent terrorism developed the In partnership with Cleveland Police, Stockton Council hosted an innovative conference designed to provide young people with the opportunity to discuss terrorism and radicalisation in a safe
If you are interested in joining a Tees Achieve course visit www.stockton.gov. uk/adulted or call (01642) 527901 to see what’s on
she At the end of last term, at decided to try her hand
Stockton
Its design has changed considerably over the years yet continues help us to communicate well with residents and keep you informed of developments and services.With the new colour coded Contents page readers can find a particular topic area more easily from news on Children and Young
People to Environment and Housing. There’s also a comprehensive What’s On page with details of events and clubs across the Borough and details of Ward Surgeries held by your local councillors.
Stockton
It’s 30 years since the first issue of Stockton News was published and the magazine has gone from strength to strength as it brings news and information to the Borough’s residents.
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A year of civic duty The role and duties of the Mayor of Stockton take many forms including civic engagements whilst, at the same time, creating vital community and business links. The Mayor also chairs the Full Council Meeting which is held every six weeks. Now nearing the end of his year in office, current Mayor, Councillor Paul Baker, has not only carried out his mayoral duties, he has also raised around £18,000 for his chosen charities, the Royal British Legion and Butterwick Hospice. Here we take a look at just some of his work. In a Royal visit, HRH Princess Anne officially opened the George Hardwick Foundation Carers’ Centre in Wellington Square in September. Paul was in attendance along with other dignitaries to show his support to this vital community service. The Centre is supported by the Council and you can read more about it on page 20.
In February, there was another royal visit by HRH the Duke of York who officially opened a new £8.5million factory in Eaglescliffe, for Nifco, the giant Japanese car parts company. Paul hosted a Civic Dinner to celebrate its success as one of the Borough’s most successful companies.
In November Paul was truly honoured and proud to be attending Remembrance Sunday which honoured the sacrifices made by our armed forces past and present.
Paul laid a wreath at the Cenotaph in Stockton and found the whole ceremony ‘very moving’.
Last August, Paul was at the start of the River Rat Race to launch this hugely popular, and televised event, which brings together people of all ages and abilities from far and near in a unique event to the town and river. It is also an excellent tool to promote Stockton’s riverside attractions to a wide audience.
Paul was delighted when the Friends of Ropner Park invited him to attend their autumn fete. He partook in stalls, raffle and tombola at this green haven, a favourite place of the Britain in Bloom judges, which the Council has won to great acclaim. It’s an example of the many community events he was invited to over the year.
As an avid fan of Middlesbrough Football Club, Paul was delighted to attend the Club’s Hurworth Training Centre to meet Manager Tony Mowbray who has supported the Mayor’s charity work.
He followed this with a visit to the Dogs Trust in Sadberge and has the ‘greatest respect for the incredible people who work tirelessly at the Centre’.
As his Mayoral year concludes Paul will return to his post as lecturer at Stockton Riverside College, who he says have been wonderful in allowing him the time to carry out his mayoral duties. As an ambassador of the Borough, the Mayor represents many facets of the town and attends various engagements and community events. If you would like to extend an invitation to the Mayor please call the Mayor’s Office on (01642) 528161 or email details of the event to mayors. office@stockton.gov.uk For more details visit www.stockton. gov.uk/themayor
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Giving value for money Stockton Council is managing its financial challenges well and gives value for money despite reductions in grant funding, local government watchdog the Audit Commission says.
Welcome to Stockton: Late last year, the Borough was delighted to welcome our two local High Sheriffs. Visiting a number of Stockton’s regeneration projects and two vibrant and expanding businesses, process sector company Johnson Matthey and timber manufacturers Cotswold Manufacturing, they said their trip had been extremely informative. Pictured above are (l-r) Roger Howell, High Sheriff of Durham and his wife, Margaret Howell, Mayor of Stockton Paul Baker, Alexandra Holford, High Sheriff of Yorkshire and Michael Holford her husband. Give your Viewpoint: Viewpoint is the Council’s Residents Panel which allows people like you to tell us what you think of the services we, and our partners, provide and tell us what you need from ourselves and our partners. Viewpoint is currently exploring residents’ future health and wellbeing needs to help inform a refreshed Health and Wellbeing Strategy for the Borough. In the past, Viewpoint has gathered views on credit unions, foster care, climate change, the ambulance service, the Council budget and much more. To become a Viewpoint member, complete the form at www.stockton.gov.uk/viewpoint or call (01642) 528866 and ask for an application pack.
Keeping up standards Stockton Council is committed to promoting and maintaining high standards in all areas of its work and is looking for people who may be interested in the position of ‘Independent Person’. The role will involve providing advice in connection with standards of conduct issues affecting the Council’s members (councillors) and the
members of parish councils in our area. We are looking for someone with a broad range of experience preferably with a public, private, voluntary or charitable work background - this could also include self-employed and voluntary positions. If you have a working knowledge or experience of local government or OTHER AREAS of the public service or OF large,
complex organisations at a senior level as well as a substantial awareness and understanding of the political process – then this could be for you. For an informal discussion about the post please call David Bond or Susan Ranson on (01642) 527060. A pack of information, including a role description and application form is also available on request. Completed applications should be returned by 31 May.
In its findings from the 2010/11 audit, the Commission says efficiency and productivity improvements are helping the Council achieve cost reductions and prioritise its resources within tighter budgets. It said the Council has proper arrangements to secure economy, with a ‘robust’ financial plan in place to bring about efficiency and effectiveness in its use of resources. The Council has managed significant financial challenges well, successfully delivering savings and efficiencies through its ongoing review of all services whilst also taking the difficult decisions needed to safeguard its future and capacity to deliver services with its ‘robust’ financial plan in place and costs generally low in comparison with similar councils.
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Tell us once Stockton Council’s Registrars have been offering the Tell Us Once service since October, making it quicker, easier and cheaper to register changes in personal circumstances following the registration of a birth or death.
The new memorial wall in Thornaby Cemetery
News on our cemeteries Memorial walls and garden areas with dedicated trees are giving families more choice to suitably commemorate their loved ones. New memorial walls at Billingham, Durham Road and Thornaby Cemeteries now offer the opportunity to place a dedicated memorial
plaque to remember, honour and celebrate the memory of a cherished family member or friend. Each plaque is made from Caithness stone, a natural stone found only in the far north of Scotland. With approval from the Council, it is possible to add a design, motif or a ceramic photo to appropriately personalise each plaque. The Durham Road and
Thornaby developments are already open and the Billingham commemorative garden is expected to be complete by April. For more information on purchasing a commemorative memorial wall, or tree plaque, plaque contact Bereavement Services on (01642) 527341/2 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ commemorate
Councillors’ cuts Borough Councillors have agreed to take a four per cent overall reduction on their allowances budget, saving the Council £34,000 a year. They took the decision after considering the recommendations of an independent panel appointed to review the current allowances system. Special responsibility allowances paid to the Council Leader and Deputy Leader, Cabinet Members, Chairs and Vice Chairs of various committees and leaders of each political group will be reduced, with the basic allowance paid to councillors frozen. The reduction also applies to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.
Councillors also agreed to keep any future increases in allowances in line with any pay increases to Council employees, which have been frozen for the past two years, and are likely to remain so for 2012/13. Councillors will still receive a budget to carry out small environmental improvement projects to benefit local residents within their wards following the allocation of a further £1.2million over the next three years. To find out more on this contact your Ward Councillor. To view the details relating to the independent panel’s report and the decision taken by Council visit www. stockton.gov.uk/councillorsallowances
The ‘Tell Us Once’ scheme, from the Department for Work and Pensions, means families can give their consent for Stockton’s Registrars to automatically share details of a birth or bereavement with other relevant agencies which need to know. Residents comments include: “Great service – I found it beneficial in relation to the child benefit form – takes the pressure off new parents” and the service “was very helpful – I didn’t know where to start – this service has taken a load of my mind.” For details of the Tell Us Once service contact the Register Office on (01642) 527720 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ registeroffice
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WARD SURGERIES April 2012 - May 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/ward_surgeries
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)
www.stockton.gov.uk/ bishopsgarthelmtreeward 17 Apr Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 23 Apr Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 22 May Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 28 May Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm
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 09 Apr Fairfield Library 14 May Fairfield Library
COUNCILLORS MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914 Email: maurice.perry@stockton.gov.uk BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409 Email: bill.woodhead@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/billwoodhead
GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward 5 Apr Grays Road Institute 16 Apr Fairfield Library 3 May Grays Road Institute 14 May Hartburn Scout Group Hut 21 May 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 Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/clarks
HARDWICK WARD
www.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward 13 Apr Salters Lane Community Centre 6:00M - 7:00PM 14 Apr Aspen Gardens 11: 00 - 12:00 noon 11 May Salters Lane Community Centre 6:00M - 7:00PM 12 May Aspen Gardens 11: 00 - 12:00 noon
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 16 Apr Holy Trinity Rosehill CE Primary School 14 May Elmwood Community Centre
COUNCILLORS TERRY LAING Tel: 01642 587356 Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/terrylaing KEN LUPTON Tel: 01642 587286 Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/kenlupton
NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/newtownward 13 Apr Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 27 Apr Newtown Community Resource Centre 11 May Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 25 May Newtown Community Resource 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 Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/bobgibson
NORTHERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ northernparishesward 12 Apr Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles 3 May 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 11 Apr Frederick Nattrass Primary School 16 May 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 17 Apr Albany Resource Centre 1 May Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 15 May Albany Resource Centre 29 May Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place COUNCILLORS BOB COOK TEL: 01642 890058 Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/bobcook EILEEN JOHNSON TEL: 01642 673952 Email: eileen.johnson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward 3 Apr Crooksbarn Primary School 4:30pm – 5:30pm The Education Centre 5:45pm – 6:45pm Glebe Community Centre 7:00pm – 8:00pm 8 May 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 5 Apr Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 19 Apr Oxbridge Christian Fellowship 3 May Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only) 17 May Oxbridge Christian Fellowship COUNCILLORS MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420 Email: mohammed.javed@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/mohammedjaved DAVID ROSE Tel: 01642 789993 Email: david.rose@stockton.gov.uk
ROSEWORTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward 5 Apr Kiora Hall Tees Achieve 14 May Kiora Hall Tees Achieve
COUNCILLORS JIM BEALL Tel: 01642 602510 Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/jimbeall MISS BARBARA INMAN Tel: 01642 586564 Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk
STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ stocktontowncentreward 5 Apr The Willows Centre 12 Apr Parkfield Community Centre 19 Apr Victoria House 26 Apr Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre 3 May The Willows Centre 10 May Parkfield Community Centre 17 May Victoria House 24 May Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre
COUNCILLORS DAVID COLEMAN Tel: 01642 673952 Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk PAUL KIRTON Tel: 01642 559331 Email: paul.kirton@stockton.gov.uk
Making them safe Stockton Borough Council has recently inspected the safety and stability of each headstone within St. Cuthbert’s Churchyard in Redmarshall. As a result, 30 headstones will require make-safe repairs, which a fully-trained Council team will carry out. Their work will follow British Standard 8415 (Monuments within Burial Grounds and Memorial Sites) and the National Association of Memorial Mason’s Code of Working Practice. Due to their urgent nature, it has been impractical to find and inform descendents and family members connected with each headstone of the works to be carried out. We therefore urge any family members who think they might have descendents in the churchyard to contact us should they have any queries about the proposed safety works on (01642) 524615 or email Daniel.brookes@stockton.gov.uk
Don’t be bored Staff at Roseworth Library are asking anyone interested in forming a Board Games Club to get in touch by calling (01642) 528098.
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WARD SURGERIES April 2012 - May 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/ward_surgeries
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickeastward 4 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary School 1 May All Saints C of E Secondary 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
Drop off point Ingleby Mill Primary school now have a ‘drop and go lay by’ on Windmill Way, alleviating congestion and the need for motorists to find a parking space when dropping their children off. The Council worked with the school to come up with the solution, an area with a marked drop-off point and a trail of multi-coloured footprints identifying the route into school, where a
marshal escorts the children into school. The school has also been involved with cyclist and pedestrian training to encourage alternatives to the car for getting to school. These also encourage exercise, socialising and develop skills to travel safely and independently and, of course, reducing pollution. Year Three pupil Ellie Mullier (left) and Lauren Hubbert from Year Five (right) won a competition to design a poster for the scheme, titled ‘Drop and Go’.
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickwestward 4 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary School 1 May All Saints C of E Secondary COUNCILLORS KEN DIXON Tel: 01642 764650 Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.uk DAVID HARRINGTON Tel: 01642 764652 Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.uk Skpe: david.harrington01642 ROSS PATTERSON Tel: 01642 764865 Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
www.stockton.gov.uk/ mandalevictoriaward 28 Apr Rochester Court Sheltered Housing 11:00 - 12:00 noon 26 May Westbury Street Library 11:00 - 12:00 noon
COUNCILLORS TINA LARGE Tel: 01642 760906 Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.uk STEVE WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176 Email: steve.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
www.stockton.gov.uk/ mandalevictoriaward 14 Apr Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 11:00am – 1:00pm 25 Apr Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 5:00pm – 6:00pm 5 May Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 11:00am – 1:00pm 16 May Labour Party Office, 109 Lanehouse Road 5:00pm – 6:00pm
COUNCILLOR TRACEY STOTT Tel: 01642 674471 Mobile: 07528 014 605 Email: tracey.stott@stockton.gov.uk
STAINSBY HILL
5:00PM – 6:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward 30 Apr Allensway Centre 21 May Eltham Crescent Community Centre COUNCILLOR DERRICK BROWN Tel: 01642 751028 Email: derrick.brown@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/derrickbrown
STAINSBY HILL
www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward 14 Apr Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am – 12:00 17 May Thornaby Community Centre 6:00pm - 7:00pm
COUNCILLOR MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 602375 Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
He found his forte Working in a job you love is everyone’s dream and Rob Westberg turned his passion for health and fitness into reality when he opened his own business, Forte Fitness and Boot Camps. Rob, 37, wanted to change the way people exercise and achieve results at the same time. Embarking on a personal training course, he learned about everything from training systems to nutrition, physiology and anatomy. Then, with help from Stockton Enterprise Gateway run by The Five Lamps Organisation, he learned various aspects on running your own business. Rob’s enthusiasm and commitment ensures people enjoy their exercise with him and see the physical changes. He runs classes at Thornaby Academy on Baysdale Road. To find out more visit www.fortefitnessandbootcamps.com or find him on Facebook and Twitter or call 07875 380534. Upcoming: Plans are afoot for an extension to the Tesco store in Ingleby Barwick and design works are underway for service diversions associated with road improvement works on Ingleby Way/Myton Way. It’s expected the works to utilities will begin this summer with road works starting in summer 2013. Meanwhile Tesco hope to start work in the spring next year on their store extension.
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WARD SURGERIES April 2012 - May 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/ward_surgeries
BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamcentralward 11 Apr Billingham Youth & Community Centre 9 May 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
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghameastward 27 Apr New Life Family Centre 5:00pm – 5:40pm Synthonia Scout Group Hall 5:45pm – 6:30pm 25 May As above
Alive and kicking! You may not know but we have no less than three kickboxing champions in our midst, all from Cleveland Kickboxing Gym in Billingham – and all nurtured under the expertise and skills of coach, Ron Gray, owner and martial arts champion himself. Three current champions are Chris McCartie, 33, who has trained with Ron since he was 15, and is the present Light Middle Weight European Champion. Current European Welter Weight Champion. Sam Reeve, 25, has trained for 14 years and has won several domestic titles and is the present European Welter Weight Champion and Ste Raybould is British Junior Fly Weight champion. The Junior Club has also fostered the Junior Northern Area Champion, Francis Conlin aged ten. All are coached by Ron Gray, himself a martial arts champion, who said: “Not bad for a small
club in Billingham! These three lads are proof that, if you put the work into training, the rewards will be there.” Coaches all hold Sports Leaders Certificates Level 2 Award in Community Sports Leadership accredited by Stockton Council. Absolutely anyone is welcome to train with the champions in the fully equipped gym where fighting is not compulsory! New members are always welcome and Ron caters for everyone. Wednesday is family night where youngsters can bring mums and dads for an hour’s training in a very friendly environment. Throughout the year Ron organises kickboxing shows and, although amateur, he’d welcome business sponsorship towards their substantial cost. For more details on the club or sponsorship please call Ron on 07931 130942, email clevelandgym@yahoo.co.uk or visit Cleveland Kickboxing on Facebook.
Champions all: (l – r) Chris McCartie (European Champion), Shaun Liddle (Scottish Open Champion), Francis Conlin (Northern Area Junior Champion), Sam Reeve (European Champion) and Steve Raybould (British Junior Champion).
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 16 Apr North Billingham Methodist Church 14 May High Grange Community Centre
COUNCILLORS MRS LYNNE APEDAILE Tel: 01740 645216 Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/lynneapedaile COLIN LECKONBY Tel: 01642 872896 Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/colinleckonby
BILLINGHAM NORTH 7:15PM – 8:15PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamnorthward 27 Mar High Grange Community Centre 08 May North Billingham Methodist Church COUNCILLOR RAY McCALL Tel: 01642 533407 Email: ray.mccall@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamsouthward 12 Apr Billingham Branch Library 10 May Billingham Branch Library COUNCILLOR MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717 Email: jean.odonnell@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/jeanodonnell MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782 Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk Web: www.stockton.gov.uk/mikesmith
BILLINGHAM WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamwestward 27 Apr Wolviston Court Community Centre 25 May Wolviston Court Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS MARY WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755 Email: mary.womphrey@stockton.gov.uk MICK WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755 Email: mick.womphrey@stockton.gov.uk
Residents meeting: North Billingham Residents Association (NBRA) holds its Annual General Meeting on Monday 16th April at 7pm in the High Grange Community Centre, Billingham. All residents in the NBRA area are invited to attend the AGM and other NBRA meetings through out the year. For details visit http://northbillra. webs.com
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WARD SURGERIES April 2012 - May 2012
www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/ward_surgeries
EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 17 Apr Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00pm – 7:00pm 4 May Trinity Methodist Church 6:30pm – 7:30pm 15 May 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
EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 16 Apr Preston Primary School 5:30pm – 6:30pm 20 Apr Egglescliffe Community Centre 5:30pm – 6:30pm 14 May Preston Primary School 5:30pm – 6:30pm 18 May Egglescliffe Parish Hall 5:45pm – 6:45pm
WESTERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ westernparishesward 13 Apr The Chapel School Room, Carlton 4 May 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 3 Apr Yarm Library 1 May Levendale Primary School
COUNCILLORS MARK CHATBURN Tel: 01642 789982 Email: mark.chatburn@stockton.gov.uk BEN HOUCHEN Tel: 01642 786639 Email: ben.houchen@stockton.gov.uk ANDREW SHERRIS Tel: 01642 786767 Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.uk
COUNCILLOR PHIL DENNIS Tel: 01642 790916 Email: phil.dennis@stockton.gov.uk
Super students Top of the table! In the Government’s Primary League Tables, Layfield Primary School, in Yarm, was not only rated as one of the Borough’s top eight primary schools but also ranked number 80 out of around 20,000 schools in the whole country.
Left to right David Sharples, Amelie Cowan, Lucy Martin and James Harkin
A Level students from Conyers School in Yarm have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their studies by taking part in extra research. Under the Extended Project Qualification scheme, students research a topic of their choice between June and October to produce a 5,000-word essay on their findings. It’s the fourth year Conyers students have taken part, gaining an extra qualification. The school has again achieved outstanding results, with 55 per cent of
those taking part achieving an A-B grade. Four students achieved particularly well, gaining an A* grade in their topics – Amelie Cowan (The Prevention of Milk Fever in Cows), James Harkin (Quantum Entanglement), Lucy Martin (The Use of Transistors in Nanotechnology) and David Sharples (Artwork entitled Memories of Conyers School). The school is particularly proud as Oxford University have offered places to James and Lucy to study Physics and another student, William Frankish, to study Computer Science.
The percentage of children achieving Level 4, and above, in English, Maths and the expected progress from Key Stage 1 to 2 was 100 per cent. The school also had the highest percentage of children achieving Level 5 in the Borough and had the highest Average Points Score. The school prides itself in
Just the ticket Eaglescliffe Station has a new ticket office and other improvements as part of the Tees Valley Metro project. Toilet facilities, a refurbished station building, waiting room, improved ramps and a car park extension are due next year. Stockton Council secured Department for Transport funding in partnership with Northern Rail, Network Rail, Grand Central Railways and ticket office operator
widening the curriculum wherever possible for its pupils. It recently marked its link to the China Petroleum Pipeline Middle School in China by sampling some Chinese food at lunchtime, courtesy of the school cook and every class made items such as lanterns or dragons and tried Chinese writing.
Showing off their lanterns - left to right Oliver Watson, 9, Courtney Smith, 9, and Finn Allen aged 10.
Chester-le-Track. The office opens Monday to Friday 7.15am–6.15pm and Saturdays and Bank Holidays from 7.15am–1.15pm (closed Sundays).
s ’ t a h W r Regula Events Library activities:
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Fairfield Library
Parent & toddler group every Wednesday in term time 10-11am and Friday 2-3pm. Art & craft club for 7-10 yrs, Wednesday evenings fortnightly 5.30-6.30pm; the club meets for 11-16yrs Saturday mornings 10.30am-12 noon. Homework Club Tuesdays in term time 5.30-6.30pm weekly. Adult reading group meets monthly on Mondays, 2-3pm, Junior reading group and TeenTales teenage reading group every month, Monday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time only). Tel 527962. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Thornaby Library, Westbury St
Weekly events at this library include: Tuesday Tees Credit Union 10am-12 noon and 1.30-3pm Baby and Toddler group. Thurs 10.30-11.30am Tristar Homes drop-in Surgery and 1.30-2.30pm Police Surgery, Fridays 3.00-6pm Thornaby Gaming Group (PS3 and Wii sessions ages 8 – 18yrs) booking advised. Homework help sessions Mon, Tues, Thurs and Friday 3-5pm. Colouring club, every day 3-7pm. Tel 528150. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Norton library
Parent and toddler group, every Friday in term time, 10-11am. Wednesday talks, every first Wed of the month, 3pm. Guest speaker and refreshments, free. Crafty Kids Club, every Saturday 10.30- 11.30am, free. Scrabble group, every Wednesday 1pm. Tel 528019. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Stockton Central Library
Books and banter Every Wed, 10.30am-12 noon, illustrative talks with guest speakers. Parent and Toddler group every Tuesday 9.45–11am, story time for under fives, every Saturday 11–11.30am. Drop in Children Crafts, every Saturday, 11– 3:30pm. Youth Zone offers Yu-gi-oh and PS3 gaming in the Library Conference Facilities for 8–17 yrs. Sessions run fortnightly on Saturdays from 1 – 3:30pm. Family history group meets every second Tuesday, 2-4pm. Family tree surgery for advice on your ancestry, first Wednesday of month, 2-4pm. Tel 526521.
On
A look at what’s going on
Thornaby Central Library
Monday 9.30-11am credit union, Thursday evenings Rainbow Corner, beginners knotting and crochet classes from 5-6.30 pm. Fridays 2-4pm ‘Moving Along Together’ bereavement group. Second Monday in the month from 10.30-11.30am coffee morning for the Widowed and those who live alone. Knitting Group on the first Friday of the month, 10am. Tel 528117. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Egglescliffe Library
Children’s story time every Thursday, 10-11 am, Craft ‘n Chat craft club for adults meets every other Wednesday 10-12 .15pm. Bring along your craft project and meet other enthusiasts. This club is preceded by a Tai Chi class from 8.30am. Tel 527959. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Roseberry Library
Pre school story time every Friday 2-2.30pm, Embroidery/cross stitch group every Thursday 2.303.30pm, family history group first Wednesday of the month, 5.30-7pm. Book group last Friday of the month, 2-3pm. Tel 528084. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Ingleby Barwick Library
Teen Reading Groups meet first Mon and Wed of the month. Local/Family History Group meets on the last Mon and Wed of month. Drop in Social Afternoon Group meets first Monday of month, 1-2pm. Homework Club held every Monday and Thursday from 4– 6pm and Saturday 2– 4pm. Parent and Toddler Group every Tuesday and Friday afternoon from 1.30- 2.30pm. Rhyme Time every Saturday 10 -11am and every Friday 11-12 noon. Limited places, booking essential. Tel 528528. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Colouring clubs
Roseworth Library every day except Wed 3-6pm, tel 528098 Billingham Library, every Sat 10.30-11.30am, tel 527895. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Other regular events:
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WRVS Lunch Club & Social Centre
For the over 50s, now at Portrack Lane Community Centre, TS18 2HS. Mondays 10am-12pm and Weds 11am-1.30pm. Meet new friends over a lunch, arts, crafts, bingo, etc. Tel Claire Wainwright on 07714 898585 or 228341. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Funky Feet – dance and movement for 2- 4year olds Mon 10.30 -11.15am Fredderick Nattrass Children Centre Tel 528072. Tue 1.30 -2.15pm New Life Children’s Centre, Billingham Tel 528913 Wed 1.15pm -2pm and 2.15-3pm Ingleby Barwick Community Centre Tel 527802. Fri 2.00-2.45pm High Flyers Children Centre, Thornaby. All £1 per session, tel 527802. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Boys Brigade
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle every Monday, 7.15-9pm. Suitable for 11-15 years, 50p per session, tel 602478. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Toddlers Group
The Salvation Army, Palmerston Street, Stockton, every Thursday, 9-11.30am. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Salvation Army – Messy church activities
Third Saturday of each month, Salvation Army, Palmerston St, Stockton, ‘Messy Church’ activities for children, must be with an adult, 10am-12 noon, tel 887375. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
No Strings Badminton
Queen’s Campus Sports Centre, Stockton & Thornaby Pavilion. No membership fees, contracts, etc, see www. nostringsbadminton.co.uk
April Until 7 April The Snail and The Whale Family drama
ARC, tickets £9, £32 for family. Tel 525199 or visit www.arconline.co.uk
Stockton Parent Support
Term time and holiday activities for 0-25 year olds with disabilities and additional needs. Visit www. stocktonps.org or tel 674238. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
SNAPS (Special Needs Activities with Parents Support)
All-year-round activities for 0-25 year olds with a disability, special or additional needs, and their families. For details see www.snapsteesvalley.co.uk or call 530202. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
SWAT (Sports Wheelchair Activities Team)
For wheelchair users (manual and powered), meets Tuesdays, Abbey Hill Sports Hall, Ketton Rd, Stockton 6.30pm-8.00pm. Tel 530292 or email r.benson4@ ntlworld.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Shakespeare Reading Group
For details of locations email james.longwill@btinternet.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------
2 April Board & Card Games
Thornaby Library, Westbury St, 2- 4pm. Suitable for all ages. Under 8s must be accompanied by adult. Tel 528150. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
4 April Wednesday talks - RSPB international work
Norton Library, 3pm, free. Illustrated talk by the RSPB’s Amanda Martin, tel 528019. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Spring 2012
www.twitter.com/stocktoncouncil
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n around the Borough during April 2012 to June 2012 5 April Norton Library Easter Tombola and stall for Butterwick Hospice
April 23 Thornaby Central Library
6 April What’s Up?
April 28 Farmers Market
10am-12noon. Gifts, novelties, lucky dip. Tel 528019. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:309pm. Booking advised. Tickets £5, conc. £3, family (2 adults + 2 children) £13. Tel 01740 630544. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
7 April Stockton Calling
Venues around Stockton. Now in its third year, the music festival that rocks Stockton Town Centre, back with some very exciting acts. Tickets £12 advance £15 on the door. Tel 525199 www.arconline.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Celebrate the refurbished library’s third anniversary, tea and cake from 10-11am. Tel 528117. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
9am-2pm Wellington Square, Stockton, organic veg, homemade jams, cheeses, welfare assured meats – see www.stockton.gov.uk/events ---------------------------------------------------------------------
April 28 Muttnik: The first dog in space Family drama
ARC, tickets £6. Tel 525199 or visit www.arconline. co.uk
ARC, 7.45pm. Dramatic stories marking the centenary of the Titanic. Tickets £8.50/£6.50, tel 525199 www.arconline.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:309pm. Booking advised. Tickets £5, conc. £3, family (2 adults + 2 children) £13. Tel 01740 630544. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
21 April Chic Vintique – specialist market
Parish Gardens, Stockton Town Centre, vintage clothes, collectables, quality gifts and homeswares – see www.stockton.gov.uk/events ---------------------------------------------------------------------
22 April Stockton Guided Cycle Rides – the Railway Run Meet at Wynyard Woodland Park Visitor Centre, 10.30-12.30pm. For experienced and new riders. Tel 803441 email info@revolutionactive.co.uk
18 May Thorpe Thewles History Group – Illustrated talk
21-26 May National Dementia Week
May
19 April Stockton Golf Challenge 20 April Rocks from Space
ARC - Unfolding Theatre discovers what being the best really means. Tickets £8.50/£6.50. Tel 525199 visit www.arconline.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Preston Park. Three mile sponsored walk to raise funds for Butterwick children’s hospice. Registration from 9.45am. £5 to enter. Tel 628930 www. butterwick.org.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
13 & 14 April Berth - drama
See events booklet. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
15 May Best in the World - Drama
20 May Bark in the Park - calling all dogs
Ian Ramsay School 12 – 4pm. Admission £2.50. Children free with an adult. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Parish Gardens, Stockton Town Centre, arts and craft stalls – see www.stockton.gov.uk/events ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Meet at Yarm Town Hall, 7-10pm. Night ride, bike lights essential. Tel 803441 email info@ revolutionactive.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
800 years of history from the River Wear Grindon Parish Hall, 7-9pm. Tickets £3. Call (01740) 630014 ---------------------------------------------------------------------
7 April Alpine Garden Society National Show
14 April Craft Fair – specialist market
13 May Stockton Guided Cycle Rides – Loop the Tees
Events at libraries across the Borough through the week, open to all. Chat with staff from support agencies, free refreshments. Mon: Roseberry Billingham, Tues: Thornaby Central, Wed: Stockton Central, Thurs: Norton, 10-4pm. Tel 526518 for details. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
26 May Infinity Festival 1-28 May Stockton Central Library
Yarm Art Society’s exhibition. Tel 526521. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
2 May Conservation work at Teesside Archives
Norton Library, 3pm. All welcome, free talk by Archive Conservator Helen Kendall. Bring any books, photos or documents for advice how to care for them. Tel 528019. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
7 May Butterwick Hospice fayre and family fun day
Norton Green. Craft stalls, inflatables, fairground rides, refreshments and lots more. Tel 628930. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
13 May Stockton Guided Cycle Rides – Saltburn Spinner
Meet at Tees Barrage, 10.30-4.30pm. 36-mile ride to the coast and Saltburn. Tel 803441 email info@ revolutionactive.co.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
4 and 18 May Wonders of the Universe
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7:309pm. Booking advised. Tickets £5, conc. £3, family (2 adults + 2 children) £13. Tel 01740 630544. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
See inside front cover for details. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
June 2nd – 30 June Stockton Central Library
Exhibition of prints of Stockton by photographer Dave Jamieson, tel 526521. ---------------------------------------------------------------------
3 June Friends of Ropner Park’s Diamond Jubilee Picnic
Ropner Park, bring your table, chair, picnics and even candelabra to enjoy music from the bandstand. For full details and other upcoming events see www.forp. org.uk ---------------------------------------------------------------------
8 June Jubilee Crafts
Norton Library. Make exciting Jubilee crafts to celebrate the Queen’s 50-year reign, 2:30-3:30pm. Book in advance, spaces limited. Under-8s must be accompanied by an adult. Tel 528019. --------------------------------------------------------------------If you have an event you would like to feature in What’s On email communications@stockton.gov.uk