Stockton
news September/October 2010
The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council
contents September/October 2010
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...
Forum starts to take shape
Page 6
River lottery boost
News Round Up
2
Economic Regeneration and Transport
4
Environment and Housing
9
Community Safety
13
Children and Young People
16
Adults Services
19
Arts, Culture and Leisure
20
Strong Communities
26
Health and Wellbeing
29
Your Council
31
Focus On Your Area
32
What’s On
36
Page 10
Stockton’s superb summer of events
Pages 20 and 21
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 communications@stockton.gov.uk It aims to provide news and information about the Council, its partner organisations, and local community groups and businesses. Every effort is made to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication. Your views and comments are welcome.
Stockton News is produced by Stockton Council’s Communications Unit and designed by Bridge Design Group. Pictures courtesy of the Evening Gazette, Gary Walsh, Peter Mernagh, Gilmar Ribeiro, Dave Charnley and Bosh Creative. Front cover main picture - Stockton International Riverside Festival, Riverside Fringe (top left) and The Rifles Freedom Parade.
There is an audio version of Stockton News. Please call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or e-mail communications@stockton.gov.uk
news Stockton
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News Round Up
The new school year can have no better start than by celebrating the Borough’s best ever GCSE results. The hard work of our pupils, teachers, governors and support staff has really paid off with three out of four pupils achieving five or more GCSEs at A*-C. Also cause for celebration was the naming of Stockton as the region’s most enterprising place. This recognises the Borough’s commitment to business start-up support and enterprise. As we bid this month to form a Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in the Tees Valley, such an award certainly helps support our case, which you can read about on page three. The regrettable news that the closure of Armstrong Flooring is to close certainly demonstrates the need to continue to focus on improving the economy, which the LEP aims to do. This edition features some fantastic images from the summer’s events programme. The Stockton International Riverside Festival saw more than 100,000 people enjoy exciting street theatre, dance and artistic displays, while ‘Take to the Tees’ attracted huge numbers eager to try out a host of sports and leisure activities on the river. We hope just as many people will enjoy our autumn and winter events – see our pull-out guide for details. Next month the Government sets out its future budget and we will need to respond to what are expected to be significant reductions. That said, Stockton Council is nationally recognised for managing our resources well and we will do all we can to continue to deliver excellent services. And this has been demonstrated with the fantastic news that Stockton has been named ‘Council of the Year’ in the APSE Awards for our front-line services (see right) You’ll see throughout this Stockton News further evidence of our efforts to always deliver high quality services – whether it’s investment in repairing our roads or our work to bring new business and homes to the borough, such as the first 50 quality houses to be built on Northshore. Providing quality homes for all is a priority, so our development of an extra care scheme in Thornaby on the former Parkview care home site is welcome news. This will provide 42 stateof-the-art units for older and vulnerable people. Finally, this month we welcomed The Rifles to parade through Stockton Town Centre before being formally granted the Freedom of the Borough. A very proud moment for all.
Neil Schneider Chief Executive, Stockton Borough Council
We are proud winners!
Some of the Care For Your Area team
Stockton Council is delighted at being judged as the UK’s top performing Council for the front-line services it delivers. From more than 300 entries across the UK, Stockton achieved the ‘Overall Council of the Year for Service Delivery 2010’ at the annual Association of Public Sector Excellence (APSE) Awards. The awards recognise excellence the work of council teams in areas such as street scene and public realm, highways and street lighting, waste and recycling, catering and transport and fleet services. Stockton was also the overall winner of the horticultural services category in recognition of the quality of work across the Borough’s parks, grounds and green areas. APSE’s Chief Executive, Paul O’Brien, said: “Frontline
public services are vital in our communities. Stockton has raised the bar in service delivery demonstrating a clear commitment to delivering excellence. The judges found the commitment, of both elected members and council staff, to providing Stockton on Tees residents with excellent public services, was outstanding. They are to be congratulated on this remarkable achievement.” Neil Schneider, Chief Executive of Stockton Borough Council, said: “This award is testament to the hard work of all of our staff for their commitment, professionalism and energy in providing quality services - whatever the weather. At a time of significant budget pressures this shows just how hard Stockton is working to maintain delivery of quality front-line services for the people of our Borough.”
Flags keep on flying Flags fly proudly from six of Stockton Borough’s parks and green spaces after the Council retained all six of its coveted Green Flag awards for 2010 – issued by the Keep Britain Tidy group. The winners all met the high standards set by the Civic Trust and include Wynyard Woodland Park, where a £300,000 play park opened recently, Billingham Beck Valley Country Park, Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, Ropner Park, Thornaby Cemetery and Charlton’s Pond. The Awards celebrate standards of excellence in a public park or green space recognising the hard work, dedication and achievement by staff and local people.
Stockton News September / October 2010
Councils unite in new enterprise partnership Stockton Council has come together with the other four Tees Valley councils, local business leaders and regeneration bodies to respond to the Government’s call to form a Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). Tees Valley Unlimited (TVU) has submitted a proposal on behalf of the partnership and, if accepted by Government, a Tees Valley LEP will be formed. This will work with the Government to strengthen the local economy and employment opportunities and tackle issues including employment, planning, housing, transport and infrastructure. It complements a submission by the Association of North East Councils and the Northern Business Forum to form a strategic economic body at the regional level to deal with issues including European funding and inward investment. TVU estimates up to £8bn of potential investment could be attracted to the Tees Valley in areas such as oil refinery, ports development and off-shore wind turbine construction. Sandy Anderson, Chairman of TVU, said: “We want to make sure we exploit every opportunity to boost economic growth and create new businesses and jobs in the Tees Valley. Working with all local authorities across the Tees Valley creates a strong partnership which we hope will attract investment and funding to help us build on our strengths and particularly in areas such as the low-carbon economy.”
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Stockton on track as enterprise hot spot Stockton has been named the most enterprising place in the North East after winning the regional heat of the prestigious Enterprising Britain competition. One North East named Stockton the region’s most enterprising place from a bid showcasing how partners work together to encourage enterprise by fostering skills, championing enterprise in the community and supporting start-up businesses. Enterprising Britain celebrates the UK’s most enterprising areas, where enterprise excellence has helped transform social and economic fortunes.
Neil Schneider, the Council’s Chief Executive, said: “While Stockton Council has always been committed to creating opportunities for our local residents to find work and self employment, the impact of the recession has strengthened our resolve to do even more.
A key strength of Stockton’s bid was its commitment to encouraging young people in schools and from all kinds of backgrounds to consider self-employment as a viable career option for the future.
“We are delighted this award has recognised our emphasis on enterprise and business development – it is testament to the hard work of Council staff and our partners who put enterprise at the heart of what we do.”
An example is an enterprising project by Grangefield School (pictured) offering digital printing services.
To find out about the Enterprising Britain competition, visit www.enterpriseuk.org/ enterprisingbritain
Stockton Enterprise Week 15-22 November sees a week-long series of events across the Borough to inspire people of all ages to consider self-employment and enterprise. See the Council’s website for more details www.stockton.gov.uk
What ‘A’ result! Stockton schools continue to maintain momentum in GCSE and A Level results. One school which should receive particular praise is Thornaby Community School (now Thornaby Academy) who, Twins Michael and Charlotte Pybus of Conyers School in Yarm celebrate with 97 per cent, have the their achievement of seven grade A’s and one A* between them. highest percentage of pupils “The students’ hard work and determination, gaining five or more GCSEs at A*- C grade in combined with the high standard of teaching, Stockton Borough. In only a year this school has really paid off with early indications has turned its fortunes around to achieve suggesting Stockton schools have achieved fantastic results and this certainly places them their highest ever results, with 75 percent of in a great position as they begin their new pupils achieving five or more A*- C grades, life as an academy. 52 percent of those including English and Maths.” Jane Humphreys, Director Children Education and Social Care, said: “Praise must go A Level results at both of the Borough’s to the students, teachers, support staff secondary schools also maintained high and governors of Stockton’s schools on overall pass rates. examination results this year.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Carrying you over the threshold The ‘Over the Threshold’ (OTT) project offers vital support to small businesses experiencing barriers to their growth. Funded by Stockton Council and the European Regional Development Fund, the project is run by Mark David. Since it began, he’s offered more than 20 local businesses support and advice on issues ranging from VAT threshold, employment law and procurement. One company which feels it’s really benefited is Stockton-based AC Cleaning Services, who have recently taken on several new employees. “As a small business, the support of OTT is second to none as, unlike larger companies with their own HR teams, we can ensure we follow all legal guidelines.” said Sales Director Jayne Davison.
Based in Thornaby, Canine Hydrotherapy Ltd is a new business helping furry friends stay fit and healthy, thanks to a start-up grant from Stockton Council. Director Jayne Davison with her husband, Mark.
If your business is experiencing barriers to growth, contact Mark David on 07827 352861, email mark.david@businesslinknortheast. co.uk or contact Stockton Council’s Business Development Team on (01642) 528384.
Save £££s - get a pathfinder If you’re aged between 16-19 years and live in Stockton Borough, a Pathfinder bus pass will give you unlimited half-price travel across Stockton and other neighbouring boroughs.
Doggy paddle
The pass costs just £8 a year for students (or free if you receive specified benefits) and is easy to get – just provide proof of age, proof you live in the Borough and evidence of any benefit you may receive.
Hydrotherapy helps dogs recuperate from injuries or operations, building stamina and repairing muscles and helping control weight and obesity. It’s also great fun. To find out more visit www. teessidecaninehydrotherapy. co.uk or call (01642) 767880.
You can get your pass when you enrol at college, or you can call into the Arriva travel office or Stagecoach office on Stockton High Street. Call (01642) 528499 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ teenbuspass for details and to see which benefits apply.
A boost for NIFCO A Stockton plastics car parts manufacturer has multi-million pound plans to increase the size of its factory – creating 40 jobs and offering 50 contract staff permanent employment. Taking advantage of an upturn in the car market, Nifco UK wants to build a new state-of-the-art facility to meet current demand. In July Nifco’s Japanese President, Masaru Onodera, visited Stockton, when
he met with Stockton’s Mayor and other Council representatives. The recent news that government funding is secure for Nissan’s production of its electric Leaf car at Sunderland offers Nifco the chance to boost business even further as the firm are currently in the top 20 per cent of suppliers for the Japanese firm. “The growth of our Nissan business is integral to the new factory being approved, it is all linked together. Our business is doing well,
particularly Fiesta and small engines. The extra Nissan business is the icing on the cake. We are working seven days a week to keep up with demand. “We’ve had fantastic support from One North East, Stockton Borough Council and Tees Valley Unlimited on this,” said Nifco Managing Director, Mike Matthews (pictured). “We want to be a worldclass company. The new building will be future-proof and flexible, so we can accommodate new business.”
If you want help, information or advice about starting or developing your own
Stockton News September / October 2010
Funding approved for Northshore
Page 5
Super structure once again
The first phase of the multi-million pound Northshore scheme in Stockton should start early in 2011 after the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) confirmed £2.6 million in funding. The Home Zone at Northshore – initially 50 homes – incorporates design features such as roof terraces and courtyards with views of the River Tees. Tees Valley Unlimited (TVU), which is leading the scheme, has announced Muse Developments as part of the Northshore Development Partnership and hope to start work on this planned first phase in the near future. This will kick-start the development of 3.4 hectares of land which could ultimately see up to 999 homes created. Richard Buckley, Director of Delivery at Tees Valley Unlimited, said: “The announcement of funding from HCA to facilitate this development is great and we look forward to working closely with Northshore Development Partnership to progress its proposals.“ The HCA has already invested more than £20 million on preparing the site for the overall Northshore scheme. Led by TVU, with partners Stockton Borough Council, the HCA and One North East, it has the potential to create 4,500 new jobs. Future plans include new offices, homes, shops, hotels, restaurants, bars, cafès, leisure facilities and a new Durham University campus.
Judges at the Stuctural Steel Design Awards described Stockton’s Infinity Bridge as “steelwork at its most dramatic” as it claimed another prestigious national award as one of four overall winners for 2010. Judges said the bridge is: “An inspirational project which fulfils the brief for a landmark to open up a development area. The elegant structure clearly describes the forces on it, and its simplicity belies the technical complexities. This is steelwork at its most dramatic.” Winners have to relate to their environment and demonstrate excellence of architectural detail, economy and innovation in design and the advantages of steel construction. Infinity Bridge has also won the Institution of Structural Engineers Supreme Award, the Institution of Civil Engineers Robert Stephenson Award and the Constructing Excellence North East ‘Project of the Year’ and is shortlisted for the Royal Institute of British Architects Awards. Working on behalf of Stockton Council, the structural engineer was Expedition Engineering, steelwork contractor was Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd and Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering was the main contractor.
Changes to Boroughbus services Stockton Council has changed some of its evening and Sunday Boroughbus services after responding to residents’ requests at a Public Transport Forum. The changes to services operated by Leven Valley
have restored the 505/506 Boroughbus service to Elton Park and Fairfield, with a new link to access ASDA’s Portrack superstore. Links between Billingham and Middlesbrough are also to be restored, with the 592 service replacing the 593. The 517 service now
links Ingleby Barwick and Middlesbrough on evenings and Sundays. Students living in Kirklevington can now use the daytime 507 service during term time to get to and from Conyers School. You can download bus
timetables from the Council website www.stockton. gov.uk or pick up copies at Stockton Council Libraries and main Council offices. For more information call (01642) 526709 or email technicalservices@ stockton.gov.uk
business call Stockton Council’s Business Development team on (01642) 528384.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Forum starts to take shape The ambitious regeneration of Billingham Forum is rapidly taking shape, with much major internal work complete and a new colourful frontage now visible to town centre visitors.
Meanwhile, Stockton Council and NHS Stockton-on-Tees continue to work to secure the £35 million to build an Integrated Health and Social Care Centre and Extra Care facility in Billingham.
Stockton Council’s £17 million investment is transforming the original 1960’s centre into a highspecification sports and leisure complex. Specialist asbestos clearance and other unexpected work, coupled with the harshest winter weather for 30 years, has put the original timetable for the scheme back by up to 16 weeks. However, the contractors are working to reduce this and expect the new, improved Forum to reopen in the spring. It’s not only the Forum which is seeing improvements, as developers Stockland continue their maintenance work in Billingham town centre. They have installed more than 20 cameras as part of a new £75,000 CCTV system and begun repairs to the spiral ramp, badly damaged by last winter’s harsh weather.
Pupils on board: Youngsters from Billingham schools helped design and paint
display boards to hang on the compound hoarding. Encouraged by Stockton Council, they followed a health and fitness theme to create a design showing what the Forum means to them. Ivor Goodsite from the Considerate Constructors scheme is pictured here with staff and pupils from Pentland Primary, Oakdene, Billingham South, Ash Trees, St John’s and St Paul’s primary schools.
Skills for life Pathway to employment You can improve your English and Maths skills with the ‘Test the Region’ project which is part of a national scheme to promote skills for life training.
Champions are working across the Borough in centres such as Billingham Community Centre, Kiora Hall, Roseworth, Hardwick in Partnership, Learning Links in Stockton Town Centre and TNG in Bishopton Lane.
In Stockton, skills and training provider A4e is running it, funded through the Skills Funding Agency North East and European Social Fund (ESF).
If you are over 16, unemployed and not in education or training, or work less than 16 hours a week, call A4e on (01642) 632952 or contact Judith Healey on 07834 127952, email jhealey@a4e.co.uk
Test the Region Community
A new scheme is helping 16 and 17 year-olds from central Stockton prepare for work by providing placements with voluntary organisations. Working part or full time, they receive an allowance based on the national minimum wage, and the voluntary
organisations will also receive an allowance. Currently a Stockton Council funded pilot project, the Employment Pathway Programme is run by Tees Valley YMCA with Stockton’s Integrated Youth Support Services and local voluntary organisations – call (01642) 676511 for details.
Stockton News September / October 2010
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Success for local apprentices Two local apprentices have reasons to be celebrating, thanks to Stockton Council and its partners. Thornaby apprentice Jimmy Lyth has nailed a full time job on a local development, just minutes from his doorstep. Jimmy (pictured left), 20, has been an apprentice joiner with Keepmoat Homes at the Mandale Park development since 2008. Successfully completing his two-year apprenticeship, Jimmy was offered a full time position with Keepmoat Homes as a sub-contractor joiner. He’ll be working on Stockton Council’s £100m regeneration scheme which will create around 800 new homes and facilities. Carl Machin, (right) heating and ventilation apprentice with Stockton Council, has scooped the Student of the Year award for his dedication, hard work and excellent practical skills.
Carl, 20 of Bishopgarth, Stockton, has been learning his craft on the job complemented by studies at Hartlepool’s College of Further Education, where he’s completed his Level 2 NVQ and is due to start Level 3.
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Economic Regeneration and Transport
Jetty made pretty
Think B4U Park Most of us have come across cars parked inconsiderately on the pavement.
They may force us to squeeze through a tight gap or even step out into the road. They can make it dangerous to cross the road, block us in or obscure our view of oncoming traffic. They can also churn up grass verges and crack paving slabs, causing a trip hazard. There are all sorts of reasons to avoid parking on pavements and now Stockton Council has launched a ’Think B4U Park’ campaign to tackle the problem.
Take a stroll into our fabulous Preston Hall Museum & Park – make your way down to the river and you will see work is well under way as part of Stockton Council’s ongoing £7million redevelopment of the site. A brand new jetty is currently being installed by Stockton Council in partnership with civil engineering specialists, Birse Civils. Planned to open in the autium it replaces the old one which was worn out after many years of use. The new jetty will improve access to the river for pleasure boats wishing to land and depart and will provide a valuable gateway to the River Tees and Heritage Park. The Museum & Park also boasts a newly completed river pathway, which will take visitors directly from Preston Hall to the water’s edge.
The improvements form part of the wider development of Preston Hall Museum & Park, which will see the Hall itself restored and refurbished thanks to funding from both Stockton Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. The next stage of refurbishments to the Park and its surroundings will start in the autumn. This phase will include the removal of the animal enclosures in order to reveal the historic oak canopy and create a landscaped picnic area. The animals currently at Preston Park have been found new homes in neighbouring public attractions and nature reserves. The upgrades to Preston Hall Museum & Park, including the new jetty, are part of a wider £500m public sector led investment programme by Stockton Council to regenerate the Borough.
parking causes particular difficulties.
The Council’s Enforcement team has a wide range of powers, delegated by the police, but will link their work with a programme of education to people who park on pavements. If you encounter problems caused by pavement parking, call the Enforcement team on (01642) 528439 or email enforcemin.admin@stockton. gov.uk To find out more about parking issues, call the parking team on (01642) 52 8499 or email carparking@ stockton.gov.uk
Following a Council Select Committee study of the issue, a four-page leaflet is available to download from the website at www.stockton.gov.uk/ pavepark or call (01642) 526709 for a printed copy. Neighbourhood Enforcement Officers are also targeting areas where obstructive
Filling the five thousand Council repair teams are making good progress in tackling a staggering 5,000 potholes caused by last winter’s severe weather. Water easily penetrates tiny cracks in road surfaces, prizing them apart when it freezes. The prolonged conditions during the cold spell meant this was repeated time after time. The result in Stockton was an estimated ten potholes for every one of the Borough’s 500 miles (800km) of road. In total, potholes accounted for an amazing 5,000 sq metres of road and 15miles (24km) of carriageway required resurfacing.
So far, contractors have resurfaced around half of this, while Council Care For Your Area teams have tackled thousands of individual potholes. Earlier this year, the Government recognised this, allocating Stockton Borough an extra £208,000 to repair winter damage as part of a nationwide £100 million grant. But the extent of damage meant more was needed to repair the Borough’s roads and, following a detailed survey, the Council approved an extra £300,000 to complete the job. This year, Stockton Council will invest £3.8m in highway maintenance.
Stockton
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Environment and Housing
Rent it - buy it! Stockton Council’s new Rent to Buy Scheme is off to a flying start as three families who thought they would never have the chance to own a property have moved into brand new homes at Hardwick Green. The scheme, the first of its kind in the North East, helps local people onto the property ladder. They can rent a house for five years, after which they have the opportunity to buy it, with the rent they have paid converted into a ten per cent deposit to help make home ownership a reality. The scheme comes at a time when the substantial deposits mortgage lenders require make it very difficult to buy a home. The Council has developed it with private developers, Barratt Homes and Keepmoat Homes as well as Housing Hartlepool - who will act as landlord during the rental period. Adrian Healey and Kirsty Walton moved into their brand new three bed property with two-year-old Katie. Adrian said: “Without Rent to Buy we wouldn’t have been able to
think about owning our own home. It’s given us a chance to step onto the property ladder without the worry of securing a mortgage.” Hardwick Green is part of the £100m Hardwick regeneration by Stockton Council and other partners, with 600 properties being replaced with 800 new homes to rent or buy. Just a few remaining homes are left. Call (01642) 528646, email homeownership@ stockton.gov.uk or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ affordablehomeownership
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Eco-friendly weed killing Summer weather is ideal for weeds to spread on footpaths and highways. This year, the Council is tackling them with less harmful chemicals in a greener approach. Staff are also removing weeds by hand once areas have been chemically treated.
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Environment and Housing
River Lottery Boost
Looking to the future What will Stockton Borough look like in 20 years’ time? Where will new housing, industry and community facilities go? What infrastructure needs to be put in place to make it happen? How can we make sure the environment is protected? The Council’s Spatial Planning team want to know what you think – and your answers will help shape the Borough’s future, including how planning applications are determined.
Where the River Leven meets the Tees picture courtesy of Doug Nicholson
Wildlife on our doorstep will be open for all to enjoy thanks to a £268,000 award to Groundwork North East from Natural England’s Access to Nature programme. Groundwork North East is developing ‘River Routes in Stockton’ with British Waterways, the Environment Agency and Stockton Council to create circular walks for people to enjoy. Two Community Rangers will spend three years working with communities, seek funding and provide opportunities for people to get involved.
Anne-Louise Orange, the Stockton River Corridors Project programme manager, said: “We are delighted with this funding as it will mean we can continue to work closely with partners and the local community to develop the local green space around the river corridors, and engage with wider partners such as the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust.” Access to Nature is funded by £25m from the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing Spaces programme. River Routes in Stockton links with the first phase of the Tees Heritage Park, the subject of a recent successful bid to Community Spaces Flagship (another Big Lottery Fund programme) by the Friends of Tees Heritage Park.
Green heroes reign supreme Stockton came out tops in the first areaspecific survey of public attitudes about being ‘green’ for the environment. The new Green Barometer North East survey, of almost 1,500 people across the region, found Stockton Borough residents are adopting environmentally
friendly habits as part of their everyday routines, with half (43 per cent) of those surveyed living in an environmentally friendly way. Nearly everyone (98 per cent) surveyed in Stockton is cutting back on what they throw away – such as clothes or food – compared with residents further north.
The survey, commissioned by the Energy Saving Trust and ClimateNE, showed people in Stockton are more likely to get on their bike or use public transport for local journeys (60 per cent). Nearly three quarters (73 per cent) have improved insulation around windows and doors in their home while 71 per cent have topped up loft insulation.
Later this year, the Council will be consulting on some important planning documents – the Regeneration Development Plan Document (which will allocate sites for new development) and the Environment Development Plan Document (which will contain policies to protect and enhance the rural, urban and natural environments). We will be asking you to give your views on these – both documents will be available at www.stockton.gov.uk/ spatialplanning and in all the Borough’s libraries. If you’d like us to let you know as soon as they are available, contact us at spatialplans@stockton.gov.uk or call us on (01642) 526197.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Council’s work to cut its energy use is paying off. A 14.5 per cent drop for 2009/10 puts us on target for a 25 per cent cut in energy use by 2012.
Stockton News September / October 2010
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10/10/2010?
What are you doing on the...
Stockton Council is proud to be part of 10:10 – the campaign to cut carbon emissions by 10 per cent in 2010. As Worldwide 1010 day approaches on Sunday 10 October, everyone is encouraged to make a few small changes to improve the environment. Here’s ten things you can do:
1 Celebrate:
Share your 10:10 successes! Leave the car at home more often, tell ten friends how much money and carbon you’ve saved.
2 Swap-shop:
Swap books, clothes and other unwanted items with friends and family, instead of buying new.
3 Go Warm:
Has your loft at least 270mm of insulation? Go Warm works with the Council to arrange low cost loft and cavity wall insulation – free, if you receive certain benefits. Call 0191 5364185 or visit www.gowarm. org.uk
4 Meat-free meet up:
Treat yourself to a healthy meat-free Sunday lunch or weekly meat-free day – see www.meatfreemondays.co.uk
5 All change:
Start a week of travelling differently on October 10 – take the bus or cycle and make it a regular commitment.
6 On your bike:
Encourage workmates to try a cycle to work scheme, such as Stockton Council’s tax-free cycle purchase scheme, taken up by more than 100 people – see www.cyclescheme.co.uk
7 Go local – lo-carb:
Take the family on a low carbon trip – a cycle ride or picnic in a local park. Check out what’s on at www.stockton.gov.uk/events
8 Dig it:
Get your garden ready for planting freshgrown food in 2011.
9 Walk to school:
International Walk to School Month (October) is just the time to start a walking bus with other parents.
10 Join us: Join the movement today at www.stockton.gov.uk/1010 and start making a difference.
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Environment and Housing
Stockton represents UK in Entente Florale As Stockton News went to print, we awaited the results of our entry into Europe’s biggest environmental competition – Entente Florale. During their 24 hour visit in August, judges saw all that is best in Stockton as they took in all parts of the Borough, including the awardwinning Infinity Bridge, Tees Barrage, Thornaby, Ingleby Barwick, Billingham Beck Country Park, Stockton town centre and Wynyard Hall.
The first successful Rent Repayment Order court case recently saw 16 students reclaim £18,540 – half the rent they had paid in the nine months before they moved out – because their landlord was not licensed. A Rent Repayment Order is a means for tenants, and former tenants, to reclaim up to a year’s rent where a landlord rents out accommodation which should be licensed. Local councils will take up such cases provided the landlord has first been found guilty in court or in a tribunal of committing the offence.
At Stockton’s Ropner Park, many community groups turned out to greet the 13 judges, who represented 12 European countries taking part in the competition. The judges were looking for more than simply the quality of the environment. Some had a background in professions such as economics and town planning and wanted to see how the area’s regeneration took in factors such as environmentally and ecologically sensitive development. Stockton’s entry was its reward for winning a Gold award in last year’s Britain in Bloom awards. The winners were announced as Stockton News went to press.
Students get their rent back
Above: Clive Addison, Chairman of the Entente Florale judges and an RHS Britain in Bloom judge, at Ropner Park. Below: Judges at Billingham Beck Country Park
Bedsits and shared houses in buildings of three storeys or more, and which are occupied by five or more people in two or more households, must have a licence. To find out if your home should have a licence, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ tenantadvice
Lowering voltage usage Trials of a voltage regulation system to reduce carbon emissions and save money have cut energy use by an incredible ten per cent at Billingham’s Queensway House and Conyers School, Yarm. The system restricts the maximum power buildings take from the electricity supply – and further adjustments could increase the saving by 14 per cent. Mike Chicken, the Council’s Environmental Project Manager, said: “These results are very encouraging. Schools are high users of electricity and older buildings like Queensway
House weren’t really built with energy efficiency in mind. “For a simple energy regulator to save so much power is great news and each unit is expected to pay for itself in about a year. We are committed to finding new ways to reduce energy and save millions over the course of the next few years. “ The Council expects to install more energy regulators this year. • Want to do your bit to reduce emissions? Sign up to the 10:10 scheme and pledge to cut your emissions by 10 per cent in 2010. Visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/1010
Stockton Council protects tenants by ensuring landlords adhere to licensing conditions and we will consider prosecution where appropriate. Tenants can find help from various organisations – the Council’s Private Sector Housing team, Citizen’s Advice or a Law Centre, Shelter, student unions, community organisations such as churches or mosques, black and ethnic minority groups, or older or disabled peoples’ groups. You can contact the Private Sector Housing team in confidence at 16 Church Road, Stockton TS18 1TX, by calling (01642) 527797 or email: privatesectorhousing@ stockton.gov.uk
Stockton
news A DAY IN THE J
LIFE KATIE SMITH
A year of taking part in volunteer work led Katie Smith onto a career path she is thoroughly enjoying.
Community Safety
25-year-old Katie (pictured) is a Victim and Witness Support Officer in the Multi Agency AntiSocial Behaviour Team, based at the community safety building in Stockton Police Station.
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“I really enjoy the job, which is so varied. I deal with a whole cross section of society from all walks of life”
Previously working for the Probation Service in an administration position, she realised she wanted to further her career. Katie began volunteering for Victim Support for a year, in addition to full-time work.
This involved training to help victims of low-level crime, including crimes such as common assault and criminal damage. She continued her training to support victims of sexual violence, including offences such as indecent assault, rape, and incest. Katie is relatively new to her role as Victim and Witness Support Officer with the Council, which she began six months ago. Her typical day would start by liaising with anti social behaviour officers and contacting victims and witnesses to keep them updated with their cases. This is a major part of her role to ensure victims of anti social behaviour feel more included, and helps encourage them to come forward with evidence. Home visits to victims and witnesses and their families are also part of Katie’s job, providing reassurance and a listening ear to help them through a difficult time. She also informs them of any breaches of Anti Social Behaviour Orders or Criminal Anti Social
Behaviour Orders as well as liaising with agencies on behalf of victims or witnesses. Katie works closely with home-owners and tenants, supporting the Police and Tristar Homes by helping communicate their efforts to victims and witnesses. She said: “I really enjoy the job, which is so varied. I deal with a whole cross section of society from all walks of life, different cultures and backgrounds. All require a different level of support according to their level of need. “Part of my job is to arrange help from other agencies and to tailor the support we give victims and witnesses, to fit in with how they are coping with the anti social behaviour, as everybody reacts differently.” Training is ongoing for Katie who is still learning her role. She has recently completed a Level Two counselling course and hopes to continue to Level Three. She said “I found the course very useful when dealing with victims and witnesses who are often distressed, angry and frightened. It’s developed my listening skills, helps me encourage victims to talk about how they feel, and strengthened my ability to empathise with people experiencing anti social behaviour.” Although Katie mainly deals with victims of anti social behaviour, she is also involved in supportimg those affected by criminal behaviour such as drug dealing, which often causes problems for the wider community. You can report anti-social behaviour by calling the Hotline (01642) 607943 or email ASBTeam@stockton.gov.uk or www.stockton.gov.uk and click on to ‘safety and security online services’ to complete an online form.
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Community Safety
One too many? Fair and Sniffing Cleveland Police and Stockton Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour team are calling time on underage street drinkers using the new ‘three strike rule’ to tackle underage streetdrinkers and anti social behaviour. It gives just three chances before prosecution beckons – here’s what a young person caught drinking alcohol in a public place can expect: Strike one: they will be ordered to leave the place and not return for 48 hours (if they do, it becomes an arrestable offence). Their parents/guardians will receive a letter outlining further consequences. Strike two: if it happens again, parents/guardians will be asked to attend a meeting at the Police
station. Here, help will be offered, including advice on alcohol abuse and ideas for further treatment and referral to support services. Strike three: the young person will be interviewed and may face prosecution with a fine of up to £500. Police officers and the Council’s Anti Social Behaviour team carry alcohol testing strips which can identify alcohol in any drink. They can confiscate alcohol and, where necessary, make sure a young person found with it gets home safely. Advice and information for parents and guardians is at http://whyletdrinkdecide. direct.gov.uk • The Borough has a specialist alcohol treatment service for under-18s called STASH – if you have concerns about your child drinking alcohol, call STASH on (01642) 607028.
Worried about underage street drinking and antisocial behaviour? Now is the time to speak up.
Results of a Safer Stockton Partnership survey will enable Stockton to set priorities for tackling crime and disorder. You should have received a magazine called Crime and Disorder. Simply fill in the questionnaire at the back, send it back freepost or submit your survey online at www.stockton.gov. uk/crimesurvey You’ll be showing us what matters to you – and you could win a prize. Check out Facebook for the latest Safer Stockton news and crime figures.
square
A partnership between local motor traders and Stockton Council’s Trading Standards team aims to improve standards of care and promote fair, honest trading. The Do The Right Thing scheme is open to all new and used car dealers. Businesses must show they trade to the spirit and letter of the law. Vehicles must be described accurately and roadworthy. Garages must follow a set procedure for customer complaints and sell all vehicles with road tax, an MOT and a HPI check. Claims about mileages must be fully verified. Current members are Benfield Honda, Mercedez Benz and Sherwoods (all at Preston Farm), Central Car Sales (Norton), Norton Lodge Car Sales and Teesside Audi (Stockton) and Driven, Thornaby.
Stockton safer by far National crime data confirms Stockton as the area’s safest place to live, comparing very well with other parts of the country.
cent fall since 2004. This is because people here are more likely to report vandalism than elsewhere, making the culprits more likely to be caught.
In six years, the Borough’s recorded crime rate has dropped by a staggering 46 per cent – 10 per cent more than in the rest of the Cleveland Police area and far better than the 31 per cent fall across England and Wales as a whole.
For example, Stockton’s reporting rate for ‘vandalism to the home’ was 73 per cent, way ahead of the national rate of 40 per cent.
In just one category (criminal damage/ vandalism) are the Stockton figures above the rest of the country – and only by the tiniest figure of 0.1 per cent after a massive 39.6 per
out trouble
The Safer Stockton Partnership is delighted with these statistics. Joint efforts from Council services, Police and Fire authorities and other partners are making a difference in tackling crime and comforting communities, and maintaining a high standard of service throughout the Borough.
An important part of police work is checking out pubs and licensed premises for drugs – and sniffer-dogs help them take action across the Borough throughout the year. Although police often rely on intelligence to find out where drugs activity could be taking place, just because they check out premises with dogs doesn’t necessarily mean there is drugs activity there. Nevertheless, such operations can reveal individuals using drugs. Part of the police work is referring these people on to drug treatment, advice and support, where they learn the dangers of mixing alcohol with other substances. Stockton Police want to make sure families can enjoy public facilities, safe and free from problems caused by drugs. Inspector Tony Rock said: “We won’t tolerate drug activity in pubs and the dogs are an integral part of our operations to reveal it.”
Stockton News September / October 2010
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POLICE BEAT Neighbourhood Officers Rugby kicks off help fulfil pupils’ wish relations with schools Neighbourhood officers have been training with school children in Ingleby Barwick following the launch of a tag rugby programme.
Neighbourhood officers from Thornaby helped one pupil fulfil her wish of becoming a ‘police girl’ at a school fete in Ingleby Barwick. PCSO Jonathan Wardle and PC Katrina Clarke also raised cash for Ingleby Mill Primary School during the day. Hannah Watson (pictured), aged six, who wants to be a ‘police girl’ when she is old enough, had her photograph taken in police uniform. Both her grandparents were police officers and served with Cleveland Police for a number of years.
It is run in conjunction with the charity Child Victims of Crime, the Rugby Football Union and the police to improve community relations in schools and encourage community involvement. Several neighbourhood officers have been trained as accredited rugby coaches, including PCSO Dan Simpson, who said: “The programme has certainly been helpful in getting to know the children in the area in which I work and I hope what has been
done has in some way helped and improved the children’s sense of community involvement. “By the end of one week I will have trained more than 100 children. As well as having the opportunity to pass on some rugby training and enjoy some matches, I’ve been able to speak at length with the children about my role as a neighbourhood officer and gathered a lot of information about their views on the area they live in.” PCSO Simpson is hoping to organise a rugby tournament involving all the primary schools in Ingleby Barwick. He also plans more regular sessions in the schools.
Celebrations as cadets mark their first birthday Cleveland Police’s cadets were rewarded with a presentation evening as the scheme reached its first birthday.
positive work carried out. This event has been developed to not only celebrate their success but to also officially recognise the contribution they have made.”
The event, held at the Tall Trees Hotel in Yarm, was held to show special recognition for more than 80 Cadets and all those involved in making the scheme a success.
The event included demonstrations from the Cadets regarding key areas they have covered in their programme, including crime prevention, resuscitation, outdoor survival and an overview of the Cadet River Mapping project recently carried out for the River Tees.
The Cadets and staff involved in the scheme were presented with certificates of recognition. Deputy Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, Derek Bonnard, said: “I am delighted at the progress the Cadets Programme has made in its first year and am pleased to see some of the
Pam Andrew-Mawer, Independent Member of the Cleveland Police Authority, added: “We put a lot of work into planning the Cadets’ scheme because we wanted to ensure it would be a real opportunity for youngsters to
gain knowledge and experience which could benefit them as individuals – as well as making a genuine contribution to local communities. The Cadets Programme is open to young people aged 13 to 17 years old. It is designed to not only help the youngsters make a difference, but also to meet new friends and have fun as well as develop a variety of life skills from communication and team building to leadership skills. If you would like to find out more about the Cadet programme in Stockton please call 0845 2713883 or email cadetadministration@ safeinteesvalley.org Information is also available on the Cleveland Police website at: www.cleveland.police.uk
Contact your Neighbourhood Police Officer on (01642) 302930
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Children and Young People
Thinking differently New Academies open Stockton’s two new academies opened for the first time in September – North Shore Health Academy and Thornaby Academy replacing Blakeston, Norton and Thornaby Community schools.
Students from Northfield School, Billingham who learned about the ‘You Said’ campaign.
Eight Stockton schools are taking a new approach to preventing and reducing young people’s usage of drugs and alcohol and underage sexual activity. The ‘You Said....’ campaign uses a positive slant and focuses on the majority of young people which do not take drugs, drink or have underage sex, rather than the minority who do. NHS Stockton on Tees, with Stockton Council and NWA Social Research Ltd, is leading the campaign which busts playground myths and gives just straightforward facts. Few young people take part in these behaviours but boasting means many think this behaviour is normal. To find out more, visit www.itstruecozyoutoldus.com, call freephone 0800 316 3630 or email katy.wilburn@nwaresearch. co.uk
The right school for your child Choosing a school for your child can be confusing – but the Council’s Choice Advisors offers impartial advice on applying for a school place. Information can include school admission process, help completing forms, support through the appeal process, Ofsted reports and achievement tables, admission policies for community/voluntary aided schools and stastics for individual schools. Choice Advisers don’t take decisions for parents, nor can they guarantee a place at a particular school, but
they can help you make an informed choice. For information contact Jamila Khalid on (01642) 526603 or email jamila. khalid@stockton.gov.uk Jamila can also visit parents at home or school if required, or you can come along to a Wednesday dropin session (all 10am-12 noon) on: • 29 September at Stockton Central Library • 6 and 13 October at Thornaby Central Library Secondary school application packs were posted out on 13 September for Year 6 pupils. Forms must be returned by 31 October.
NHS Stockton-on-Tees is the lead sponsor of the North Shore Health Academy which has a science specialism with a focus on health, well-being and sport. It is the first time an NHS trust has been the lead sponsor of a UK Academy. Thornaby Academy, sponsored by Teesside University, specialises in business and enterprise with a focus on digital media. Stockton Council and a consortium of Stockton Riverside College and Stockton Sixth Form College co-sponsor both academies.
North Shore Health Academy opened in the former Blakeston School building and Thornaby Academy is based in what used to be Thornaby Community School. Both buildings received a summer make-over, students helping design the new uniforms and logos.
Pupils at North Shore Health Academy (above) and Thornaby Academy (below)
Stockton to develop new approach to schools A first class education for young people across the Borough remains a key priority for the Council. Since the Government stopped the Building Schools for the Future project in July, the Council has worked hard to explore other ways of making sure there continues to be excellent secondary school provision. A new secondary school investment strategy is being prepared. This will outline options which could help schools and the Council provide the right kind of places and equipment for pupils to learn effectively and develop skills for the future. The Council’s Chief Executive, Neil Schneider said: “We have many very good schools across Stockton Borough and we need to make sure the whole learning environment they offer is right for pupils now but also for future generations. “Above all, we need to make sure every young person living in the Borough is given access to the best possible educational opportunities to give them the best possible life chances. Building Schools for the Future was one way of delivering that vision, however it isn’t the only way and the Council remains fully committed to exploring all options.” A special Council Cabinet will consider options for all the Borough’s school sites in October.
Stockton News September / October 2010
Heritage artwork
More help for young carers A new resource pack is helping the UK’s schools identify and support young carers and their families.
Working with the Council’s Youth Support Service and Sophie Lunt from Museums on the Move, eight young people have created a fantastic piece of artwork depicting our heritage (pictured). Choosing images and shaping them in felt, they worked with craft artist Caroline Mann, using the ancient process of felt rolling. The images reflect areas of Stockton’s heritage such as remembrance, recreation, shipbuilding and Northumbria in Bloom and will be posted in youth clubs across the Borough over the coming year. For their hard work the young people received certificates of achievement from the Mayor and Mayoress of Stockton.
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Young carers may help look after other family members because of their physical or mental health, illness or disability – or even drug or alcohol related problems. Produced by The Princess Royal Trust, the ‘Do you care’ information pack takes school staff through all the steps needed to help young carers, from developing an understanding of them
through to practical support and building a healthy school environment where young carers can flourish. Eastern Ravens Trust manage the Young Carers’ programme locally. Open to young carers aged eight or over who give long-term care or support for a family member, the Trust can offer family support, activities for children and adults and respite breaks. For details call (01642) 678454 or email info@easternravenstrust.org Download the schools pack free at www.carers.org/ professionals/young-carers/
Financially savvy
In a while, crocodile
Durham Lane Primary School pupils have raised road safety awareness – and are waiting to hear whether they have set a world record. Around 200 from the school plus parents joined in the nationwide event attempt to enter the Guinness Book of Records for the most children walking in a crocodile of twos.
Norton School demolition:
As part of the transfer to the new North Shore Academy on the former Blakeston School site, a programme has been set to clear and landscape the Norton site. Security is in place and the demolition should be complete by November.
Golden result:
The Corner House, Dovecot Street, is only one of just four youth projects in the north to gain gold status for its work. A community-based Positive Futures project funded by the Home Office and managed by young people’s charity Catch22, it helps young people steer clear of crime, drug and alcohol misuse and anti-social behaviour.
Tristar Homes is helping 16-25 year olds find out about personal finance by learning how to identify illegal money lenders – and understand safe borrowing options such as credit unions. Joanne Marsdon, Debt Prevention Officer at Tristar Homes, said: “Young people are bombarded with many different credit options. This initiative equips them with the knowledge to make an informed financial choice.” Barclays Money Skills is working with Housing Associations, prisons, young offenders institutions, Children’s Centres, community groups, schools and colleges across the region. For details email moneyskills@wyjs.org.uk phone 0113 344 1688, or visit www.ts.wyjs.org.uk
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Children and Young People
Pupils dig in
Private fostering - the facts Friends and relatives often look after other people’s children – that’s a given. But if someone looks after another person’s child, even if it’s family, for more than 28 days it is deemed as Private Fostering. And legally the Council must be informed – as soon as possible. There are countless reasons why friends and family may look after a child – for example through separation, divorce, arguments at home, coming from abroad or where teenagers live with other families (simple weekend or holiday visits are not considered Private Fostering).
In a few months, pupils at five Billingham schools went from gardening novices to award-winners in Northumbria in Bloom’s new ‘Growing Together’ competition, which rewards schools for introducing children to the lifelong benefits of gardening and horticulture. Judges were extremely impressed as Oakdene Primary secured a gold award, Billingham South Community Primary and Roseberry Primary won silver gilt, Pentland Primary silver and Holy Rosary Primary bronze. Youngsters (Leah Rushby, Emily Wykman and Kayleigh Lake) grew a range of vegetables, creating picture diaries of their achievements, with classroom lessons to complement the work. School kitchens cooked the fresh produce. The project was funded with from Stockton Council’s Extended Schools Programme with help from Billingham’s Environmental Link Project (BELP).
The Council can offer lots of help and advice to relatives and friends who are looking after children – but if you know of someone who is looking after a child and you believe the Council is not aware, you could receive a £100 payment for letting us know in confidence. We are here to help, so to let us know or find out more, please call (01642) 527764 where you can speak to a member of the team or request an information leaflet.
Royal welcome
Children welcomed royalty as HRH The Duke of York (pictured) officially opened the new Rosebrook Primary School in July. The school was the result of the amalgamation of Roseworth and Redbrook schools in September 2008 and the brand new, state-of-the-art school opened its doors in 2009. With 39 nursery and 420 pupil places, the school is at the heart of the Roseworth community.
Fairtrade first: Great aspirations: Young people from Hardwick found taking part in the Aspirations Project a positive experience, after previously struggling to lead a life free from negative behaviour. Mentors worked with each before a visit to Newquay, where a range of challenges and tasks showed their team spirit and raised their life aspirations.
St Cuthbert’s Primary School celebrated becoming Stockton’s’s first school to gain Fairtrade status with a coffee morning for the Mayor of Stockton and other guests. Head teacher Julia Douglass said: “Fairtrade status upholds our school’s ethos and values, particularly justice and fairness.” The school had to meet five goals including lessons about Fairtrade and global awareness. It buys Fairtrade produce whenever it can and encourages local people to do the same.
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Adults Services
Extra care scheme for Thornaby Thornaby could soon have a state-of-the-art ‘extra care’ housing scheme under proposals to develop a 42-apartment scheme of high quality, modern accommodation for older and vulnerable adults. Planned for the former Parkview care home site, the £5.7 million scheme will offer residents the opportunity to live independently within their own home, with all the support and care facilities they require. Once complete, the Borough will have around 140 extra care apartments and bungalows, in three similar homes. Stockton Council appointed Tees Valley Housing to develop the scheme in partnership with Erimus Housing, part of Fabrick Housing Group. Tees Valley Housing will invest significant resources into the scheme, with a further £2.46 million awarded by the Homes and Communities Agency.
Are you being served? A free event for older Borough residents takes place at the Oakwood Centre, Eaglescliffe, on Tuesday 26 October from 9.30am–3.30pm. Called ‘Are You Being Served’ it’s an opportunity for older people to give their views on topics such as preventing illness and, ultimately, costly health and social care. There’s a chance to say what you feel is good, or not so good, about Health and Social Care services. There will be entertainment, lunch, a raffle and stalls offering help and advice. For those with no other means of reaching the centre, free transport is provided from designated stops. To attend, you must book in advance – call (01642) 528490 or email Lesley.hudson@stockton.gov.uk or booking forms will be available soon from Stockton libraries.
Fair access to care We would like to thank all residents who responded to our recent consultation on Fair Access to Care Services and gave us their views. We asked for views on how decisions are made about who should receive adult care services and how they may be changing. The response was very good and the returns are currently being analysed. We will be letting you know the results in a later edition of Stockton News.
Doug Ross, Managing Director of Tees Valley Housing, said: “We are pleased to be working with Stockton Council to provide this essential development. It will give even more people the privacy of their own home, with a range of facilities including an on-site care team, offering as much or as little care as an individual needs.”
Over 50? We are calling you! Stockton Council is seeking new members to join its Over 50s Assembly, a voluntary group made up of local residents who work with the Council and other public service providers to help plan for and provide better services for older people. A wide range of topics are discussed at the monthly meetings with speakers talking about subjects ranging from health and social care, transport and leisure.
The Over 50s Assembly is held on the second Monday of the month at 1pm in Stockton Central Library. Over the autumn and winter the group will meet on 11 October, 8 November and 13 December. If you would like to find out more about what the Over 50s Assembly does or would like to become a regular member then contact Melanie Stevenson on (01642) 528449 or melanie. stevenson@stockton.gov.uk
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Stockton’s SUPERB
Taking part in our Community Carnival.
A superb selection of events had something for everyone – here we catch a glimpse of some of the best. The 23rd Stockton International Riverside Festival and 20th Stockton Riverside Fringe Festival were outstanding successes, with an estimated 100,000 visitors enjoying amazing performances over five days. From walkabout street theatre to breathtaking acrobatics, dance, theatre and our biggest ever Community Carnival, the High Street saw it all, the finale providing a spectacular end to a simply stunning SIRF. Calvin Harris, The Human League, The Lightning Seeds and Mercury Rev helped the Fringe Festival attract capacity crowds, with the Tees Active comedy tent and Georgian Theatre programmes providing the icing on the cake.
Pif Paf
The Human League
Stockton News September / October 2010
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SUMMER of events
The Tees Barrage and Stockton Riverside hosted the Take to the Tees festival. There were taster sessions in everything from canoes to power boats, while 700 hardy souls splashed, jumped, kayaked, and staggered round the River Rat Race. More than 400 others – including many beginners –swam, cycled and ran the Stockton Triathlon, while the Stockton Summer Show brought more great family entertainment. Calvin Harris
Performers came to the Billingham International Folklore Festival from as far afield as Togo and Taiwan, bringing with them a unique blend of music, colour and dancing. Congratulations to organisers, volunteers and performers alike for a splendid international extravaganza. Earlier in the summer, the Vintage Fire Engine and Vehicle Rally, held this year at Grangefield School, saw around 300 vehicles of all ages, display teams and arena entertainments thrilling more than 4,000 visitors. And with Yarm Gala, Thornaby Show and Billingham Carnival also to enjoy, the residents and visitors were almost spoiled for choice. Pic courtesy of Ashley Penny
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Champion canoeist makes a splash! Top canoeist, Britain’s Laura Blakeman, is the new ambassador for the £4.6m Tees Barrage whitewater course, promoting it on both the national and international circuit. Laura, 31, from Nottingham, began by promoting the course, owned by Britsh Waterways and operated by Tees Active, as a pre-2012 Olympics training camp at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Slovenia in September. Delighted to be helping the course attract an Olympic team before the 2012 games, she says: “There’s already quite a buzz among the canoeing community about it.” Olympic paddlers need a training course to practice a range of skills. Having the same RapidBloc system as the 2012 whitewater course is clearly a major selling point for the Tees course. Laura, pictured right, won her first national contest aged 13 and the Junior European Championship at 18. She was in last year’s World and European championship winning GB team and 12th at the Sydney Olympics. Steve Chaytor, of Tees Active, said: “We’re thrilled to have someone of Laura’s standing in the sport to represent the Tees
Barrage White Water Course. Her involvement will add to the momentum and I’m confident the course will delight her fellow international competitors.” British Waterways project manager Steve Garcia added: “It’s great news that Laura has agreed to be our ambassador. Her reputation and knowledge will help attract world class athletes.”
Brrrrrraving the Tees In a water temperature of 17.5°C swimmers braved the River Tees recently as they competed in the ASA North East Region Two Bridges Open Water Swim took place between Victoria Bridge and the Millennium footbridge. Men’s and Women’s 1000m and 3000m races, and a mixed novices 1000m race. Local swimmers Gavin Haggerwood from the Borough of Stockton Swim Scheme (BOSSS) won the Men’s 1000m and Heather Richardson from Middlesbrough scooped bronze with Sam Herman and Charlotte Plumb 4th and 5th. Catriona Bruce, 17, from BOSSS, put in a great performance in the women’s 3000m and picked up silver in a time of 34:42.20. Ian Gardiner Regional Director ASA North East Region said “This year’s event has been a tremendous success and has highlighted the increased popularity and participation in Open Water swimming.”
Stockton News September / October 2010
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News from our libraries It’s all happening in Fairfield library
Ten-year-old Nieve Morrison, pictured above with Senior Library Asst Sue Johnson, earned a coveted Blue Peter badge after she emailed the TV show about Fairfield Library’s Book ‘n’ Biccy club, of which she’s a member. Organised for 7-10 year-olds, the monthly club is on Monday evenings (5.30–6.30pm) with a Teenz Tales club for 11-16 year-olds at the same time. The library was transformed into a seaside scene to celebrate National Bookstart Day and Elliott Nisbett (pictured, top right) had a great time. The parent and toddler group meets twice weekly, Wednesday 10-11am and Fridays 2-3pm. Children got the wildlife ‘bug’ when they took part in a ‘Wild Day Out’ as part of the BBC campaign to take more notice in their local environment and made a backpack set courtesy of the BBC. Pictured right is Henry Booth with his bug hotel. To find out about future events call Fairfield Library on (01642) 527962.
From Nigeria to Stockton: Talented writer Kachi Ozumba talks about and signs copies of his book The Shadow of a Smile, shortlisted for the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize 2010, at Stockton Central Library on Tuesday, 12 October. Nigerian-born Kachi lives in Newcastle and his first novel gives a sobering yet humorous insight into his country’s criminal justice system. £2 tickets include light refreshments – available from any Stockton Borough library or by calling (01642) 526522. The event is part of a range of library events, displays and activities to celebrate Black History Month – ask your local library for details.
It’s a mystery Roseberry Library, Billingham, is the scene for an evening of murder and mystery on Wednesday, 3 November (7pm). Crime writer Roz Southey will host ‘Fit to Drop – Murder and the Health Club’ where an instructor is found dead in his own exercise studio and everyone has a motive! Innovative indie crime publishers Crème de la Crime devised the evening, where teams can sift through the evidence to solve the mystery and win a prize. Copies of their book will be available to buy at bargain prices. £5 tickets are available from any Stockton Borough Library or call Roseberry Library on (01642) 528084. Light refreshments will be provided in the interval.
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Arts, Culture and Leisure
Roll up for the Bridging the beck deadly circus Renovations at Preston Hall mean a move for Stockton Council’s annual murder mystery, to the Georgian Theatre in Stockton’s Cultural Quarter. The Circus of Earthly Delights on 7,8, and 9 October is written by Paul Jeffries and directed by Michele Plews. It is set in 1886 and sees the world famous ‘Circus Pomodoro’ come to town. Characters include deathdefying trapeze troupe the Flying Tomatoes, star performers Piff, Paff and Poff – a trio of homicidal clowns – and circus proprietor Alvin Tomato. Murder is in the air as all the razzmatazz and custard pies in the world can’t conceal the fallout from bitter business deals, lies about lethal love lives and fighting between psychopathic clowns. Tickets are available from the Green Dragon Studios, Stockton. Tel (01642) 606525.
Mick Gardner with Peanuts and Harvey
Regular visitors to Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park will notice the new bridge over Cowbridge Beck. It forms a vital link for regular dog walkers to walk their dogs on an approved area for them. Other areas are designated as ‘dogs on leads’ and some are kept dog free altogether to allow dog walkers to use the site whilst providing safe areas for wildlife and school parties. Mick Gardner, volunteer and member of the Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park
Environmental Trust said: “It’s a huge improvement on the last bridge, which was certainly showing its age. The dogs appreciate it too, now they can have more of their walk off the lead.” Funding came from the Forestry Commission’s Woodland Access Grant which is also helping to improve visitor facilities at the Council’s parks and other countryside sites. These include proposals to improve the footpaths in Bassleton Wood in Thornaby, new benches at Wynyard Woodland Park and information boards at Billingham Beck Country Park.
Fright night spooktacula! Creepy characters will make you shake in your shoes and scream with delight for Halloween on the night of Sunday, 31 October as the Council presents another spooky experience in Preston Hall’s period street and woods. Do remember there is no public car parking on site on the night. Park & ride “Ghost Coaches” run from Yarm Town Hall, the
Eye in the Sky This may look like a UFO but this is the latest surveying technology being used on the roof of Preston Hall Museum. The radio controlled HeliCam usually covers events such as sailing regattas and golf championships but its survey of the 19th Century roof helped assess the next stage of the Hall’s development. A new collections store and craft resource building were recently completed, along with a learning resource centre and improved staff and visitor facilities. Preston Hall Museum is open Tuesdays–Sundays, 10am–4.30pm.
Swallow Hotel, Stockton, and Peter Barratt’s Garden Centre, each starting at 6pm. Food and hot beverages will be on sale and the evening should be finished by 9.00pm. You must have a ticket to attend – they cost £4 per person, with under 5s free, and are available from Preston Park and the Tourist Information Centre in the Shambles on Stockton High Street.
Stockton News September / October 2010
Fabulous fireworks! As cooler nights approach, Stockton Council is preparing for one of the UK’s top free firework displays, at the Riverside on Friday November 5. The event begins with music from Real Radio at 6.30pm, with a fairground and hot refreshments to keep out the cold. At 7.30pm, the fireworks will set the sky ablaze, set to music from the hit film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and others to give a distinct ‘Bollywood’ theme. Reaching more
than 1,800 feet into the sky, there will be around 32,000 explosions with more than 500 different effects by G2 Fireworks. The Millennium and Infinity footbridges will close at 7.20pm, approximately ten minutes before the display begins and reopen as soon as possible after it finishes around 8pm. The Riverside footbridge bridge will close from 6pm–8.30pm, and the Princess of Wales bridge from 10am–10pm. The North Shore gyratory road system will close from 6pm–10.00pm and the Riverside Road from 6pm–10pm.
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Dave’s Delhi delight
Billingham’s Dave Sudron is celebrating the news he will be officiating at the 2010 Commonwealth Games wrestling competition in Delhi this October. This is Dave’s second Commonwealth Games – he officiated at Manchester in 2002 – a well deserved reward after more than 30 years involvement in the sport. Dave said: ”It’s a tremendous honour to be selected to officiate at a second Commonwealth Games. The wrestling will be extremely competitive with the Indian, English and Canadian teams all particularly strong.” For information on Stockton Wrestling Club contact Splash on (01642) 527272 or visit www.teesactive.co.uk
An oarsome performance Tees Rowing Club’s stars are on the rise as members made their mark at the recent British Rowing Championships at Strathclyde Country Park in Scotland. Beth Henderson, Anna Fairs, Beth Bryan and Jo Wratten (pictured), members of the World Class Start Programme and Tees Active Sports Academy, made a big impression in the junior women’s events. 17-year-old Beth Bryan won gold in the Women’s Junior Single Scull, 17 seconds in front of the silver medallist,
before teaming up with Jo to collect silver in the Women’s Junior Double Scull. Anna and Beth Henderson joined forces with Charlotte Drury and Alicia Brown to earn silver in the Women’s Junior Quad Scull. Ed Mace also rowed well for silver in the Open Lightweight Single Sculls. The rowers, who train twice a day on the Tees, are looking to continue their development into the 2011 season. For information on Tees Active Sports Academy call Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772 and for Tees Rowing Club e-mail info@teesrowingclub.co.uk
Women’s Junior Quad Scull team.
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Strong Communities
Kirklevington helps put prisoners back on track You may have driven past HMP Kirklevington Grange prison, Yarm, and wondered what goes on behind the fences? Here we take a look at its purpose and work. Once a wealthy family home, Kirklevington Grange became a detention centre for young offenders then, in 1992, a resettlement prison for long-term category C and D male adult offenders. One of three of its type in the country, the region’s lowest-cost prison currently holds 283 offenders, 40 serving life sentences. Playing a vital role in reintegrating them, it also helps them return something to the community. Offenders are specially selected to conclude their original sentences at Kirklevington Grange, following rigorous assessment of their likelihood to be successfully reintegrated into society and live a crime-free future. None has sexual offences. A structured and supervised programme, over two to three years, ensures they leave with restored family relationships, accommodation and, crucially, skills to help them find gainful employment. For many people it would feel alien to walk into a prison. For a prisoner, confined for a lengthy period, it’s strange to do an everyday task such as walk down a street or get on a bus, which we take for granted. Those at Kirklevington Grange gain a variety of skills including welding, scaffolding, ground maintenance – marketable qualifications for employment. Other skills include restoring white goods such as washing machines, passed on to
local charities after testing. Prisoners also grow their own vegetables and flowers and keep bees.
The workshop
One prisoner, Daniel, said: “I’ve been in lots of prisons but I’m going to grab this opportunity with both hands and use it wisely. I trained in another prison and am a fully qualified plasterer. Being here has enabled me to make sure I never come back.”
The Tree of Life for Butterwick Hospice.
Kirklevington prisoners voluntarily contribute to many community projects, such as a twoyear project at Middlesbrough baby hospice Zoe’s Place, creating new fencing for parks, groundworks to areas such as Parish Gardens, Stockton, and maintenance to several churches. Bobby, 52, said: “This place has been like a lifeline. In here, you start to live. Because I’ve got the opportunity and help to apply for jobs for the first time in my life, there are no excuses when I leave.”
A Dalek produced in the workshop.
Acting Governor Gabrielle Lee said: “It’s our job to reintegrate long-term prisoners and give them the confidence, skills and experience they need to become taxpayers and enhance their own Prisoners work across the Tees future. In addition to the voluntary Valley, with around 75 on community payback, we have 50 voluntary unpaid community prisoners in full-time paid work and payback. The community all the evidence shows this is a major has benefitted from around factor in reducing reoffending.” 28,000 hours work in just three months this year – likely to Whatever your opinion of offenders, rise to more than 110,000 Kirklevington Grange gives them hours over the the chance of a positive future as year. employable taxpayers with tangible benefits to the community.
Have your Viewpoint Stockton Council’s Viewpoint panel involves residents in developing Council priorities and policies. If you would be interested in becoming a member – read on. The Panel is a vital sounding board for the Council and its partners and gives residents an opportunity to speak out and provide valuable feedback. Around 1,750 adult residents in the Borough give their views through the Viewpoint Residents Panel, broadly representing
Did you know?
the community as a whole. The Panel helps the Council and its partners understand the public views on a range of topics through up to six surveys a year and discussion groups. The panel has considered key Council strategies, the organisation and management of services, environmental and community safety issues, customer care and communications. To find out more call Jenny Elstob on (01642) 526090, email viewpoint@stockton.gov. uk or visit www.stockton.gov. uk/viewpoint
Stockton News September / October 2010
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Freedom of the Borough for The Rifles We were delighted to welcome The Rifles to the Borough on Thursday, September 9 as they received the Freedom of the Borough. The Rifles were granted the Freedom of the Borough last year and paraded through Stockton Town Centre before being granted freedom to the entry of the Borough. Marching from Church Road and along Stockton High Street, the regiment received the Freedom of the Borough at the Town Hall. This visit follows that of The Yorkshire Regiment during National Armed Forces Week in June, when they also received the Freedom of the Borough. Thousands of well-wishers lined the parade route to cheer the troops of both regiments. Following re-organisation of the British Army, the Light Infantry became part of a new regiment, The Rifles, now the Army’s largest Infantry Regiment. The Light Infantry was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Stockton in 1977.
BlindVoice IT lessons IT lessons ranging ranging from beginners to fully-accredited courses for blind and visually impaired people are on offer from Yarm Road, Stockton, based BlindVoice Uk.
All are welcome to go along for an assessment, explore the range of accessible software and meet other successful learners. Contact Christine on (01642) 803590 or email christine. durnion@blindvoice.co.uk
Upside down Stockton News Many residents find Stockton News useful and avid readers Robin and Amy Firth (pictured) contacted us recently to ask for a regular copy after friends from the Borough had sent them occasional editions. Nothing unusual there, you might say – but they’re hardly locals nowadays, the pair emigrated to New Zealand in 1958, then to Australia in 1967. Robin said: “Yes, we miss England, the lovely pubs, rich grass and fertile landscape, the decent roads and Stockton Market.” Rest assured Robin, your copy will be winging its way to you every other month.
SSAFA
is looking for ‘friends’ to take an interest in their valuable work helping serving and ex-service personnel and their families in the area. To help the cause ‘friends’ will be asked to donate £25 per year towards running costs. If you would like to know more or make a donation please contact the local SSAFA office for a ‘Friends Form’ or call (01642) 553666.
Stockton Renaissance Partnership Board
5th October, 4.30pm, Education Centre 7th December, 5pm, Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre
Eastern Area Partnership Board
19th October 2010 – 5.30 pm- Five Lamps Organisation 30th November 2010 – 9.30 am – Five Lamps Organisation 21st December 2010 – 9.30 – Five Lamps Organisation
Western Area Partnership Board 25th October at 6 pm. 29th November at 6 pm. Venue to be confirmed
Northern Area Partnership Board
4th October 2010 1st November 2010 6th December 2010 All at 5:45, Low Grange Community Centre
Did you know?
You can download Stockton news at www.stockton.gov.uk/ pressoffice/stockton_ news
Central Area Partnership Board
30th September, 10am, Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre 28th October, 10am, Education Centre 25th November, 2pm, Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre Contact Sarah Upex on (01642) 526498 www.stockton.gov.uk/renaissance
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Strong Communities
And the winners are…
Fun day success
The winners and runners up received trophies with everyone receiving a certificate in recognition of their efforts.
The biggest yet Billingham Charity Trophy event drew more than 4,500 people to enjoy sports and entertainment at Billingham Rugby Club.
The annual Club and Coach Awards, organised by Stockton Council’s Sports Development, recognise the work of local clubs, coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly and selflessly for the benefit of their organisation and the wider community.
Club of the Year Billingham Rugby Club Coach of the Year Clem Laidler (Stockton Amateur Swimming Club) Team of the Year Stockton Rugby Club Academy Contribution to Disability Sport Sue Clarke (CHILD)
Achievement Award John Schofield (Yarm Tennis Club) Contribution to Sport Anne Clayton (Yarm Tennis Club) Volunteer of the Year Dave Meredith (Thornaby Amateur Swimming Club) Young volunteer of the year Lucy Farrar (Yarm Tennis Club)
News in Brief To benefit Butterwick:
Seven years ago, Stockton resident David Hooton donated all profits from his book of poems ‘Living with memories’ to Butterwick Children’s Hospice raising around £3,000. Now he’s repeating it with his second poetry book, ‘And Life Must Go On’, with all profits again going to Butterwick Children’s David Hooten with Manager of Hospice. David’s observations on Sainsburys Stockton Chris Rousby life will make you laugh as well as cry as the many wonderful poems cover every stage of life. Copies are available from Stockton Libraries, the Tourist Information Centre (now in the Shambles), by emailing oigrandad@yahoo.co.uk or from David direct on (01642) 896478 or 07977 350563.
Young people enjoying taking part in artwork
In aid of the North Air Ambulance and Cole Lancaster, a young local boy with cerebral palsy, BCT events organised the day in partnership with Stockton Council and local community and V Talent volunteers. With more than 12 hours of live music, sporting clubs vying for points in different sports to claim the Billingham Charity Trophy, the first-ever outdoor TFM Beat the Boredom event and two fantastic street-dance performances, the day was a resounding success. A Youth Bus gave young people a chance to try out various media facilities and many organisations showcased activities for young people including sport, theatre, dance and art.
Cycling challenge
Colourful competition:
The Friends of Ropner Park organised their first flower hanging basket competition for residents in Stockton’s Oxbridge area who live on the streets leading up to the park. First prize went to Katharyn Paleci (pictured centre), runner up was Brenda Knox (right) and third prize to Judith Dinsdale (left). It’s hoped to be an annual event where the streets not only look lovely but community spirit is also enhanced.
Long shot:
Do you have a picture of the 1956-57 Stockton Association Under-18s football team? Fishburn resident Brian Walker, 71, is desperate to find one. The team was Brian Walker, J Merryfield, Eric Ward, Terry Garbutt, R Chouchley, H Chapman, D Helyer, J Hague, J Cockerill and J Murray. If you have a copy, please call Brian on 01740 623202.
Eight Stockton Council cyclists spent three days leave completing the tough C2C coast to coast cycle challenge recently to raise at least £750 for the Mayor’s benevolent fund. The team, pictured at Sunderland after completing the ride, was Sustrans Area Manager Neil Mitchell with Council staff Mark Malik, Richard McGuckin, Gary Laybourne, Jonathan Kibble, Simon Milner, Mike Chicken and Dave Griffin. Find out more about cycling as part of your everyday life at The Hub at 17 Bridge Road, Stockton. Operated by the Council, Sustrans and NHS Stockton-on-Tees, the Hub offers advice, training and even free bike loans. Call 803441 for more information.
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Health and Wellbeing
The work of DAG
Music magic A year-long music project is enriching the lives of local people experiencing dementia.
Stephen Miller pictured with members of DAG and the Mayor of Stockton
Paralympic gold medallist, field athlete Stephen Miller, made a special visit to Stockton to mark Disability Awareness Day and to celebrate and recognise the work of the Borough’s own Disability Advisory Group (DAG). Stephen, from Cramlington, Northumberland, was born with Cerebral Palsy. He has represented Great Britain for more than 10 years, competing in four Paralympic Games, three World Championships and two European Championships. Sue Whelan, a member of the DAG, said: “It was a really positive and inspiring event and I came away feeling proud to have been there and be involved. It is vital that people with disabilities to have a voice within the Council, are valued and respected as equal citizens, and can influence how services are delivered.”
Over the next year, 140 local residents and their carers will take part in the pioneering Mindful of Music project at ARC and six local care homes, following an award of nearly £14,000 from the Santander Foundation. This came after a successful six-week pilot by ARC, Stockton Arts Centre, Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust’s integrated Mental Health Service and Stockton Council. Activity coordinator Denise Wells said: “I really enjoyed the programme, which gave me the chance to meet and
chat to other people with dementia. It was nice to be able to take someone with problems out of the home and share the company of other people away from their daily routine.”
A singing tutor will work with staff so the activity can continue as part of patients’ therapy. ARC’s over-50s Silver Singers group will also visit care homes offering singing tutoring. ARC will host people in the earlier stages of dementia, accompanied by carers, to try and build on their existing musical interest and abilities and maintain their participation in social activities.
Talk is good:
A new Time to Talk service offers help to people with common mental health problems such as depression and anxiety disorders. Simply call (01642) 221910 or visit the Tees: Time to Talk at Alliance Psychological Services, 24 Yarm Road, Stockton. Your GP may also refer you.
To find out more about DAG please contact Gemma Borsberry on (01642) 528830 or email diversity@stockton.gov.uk
Caring for our ex-servicemen Pavilion Paralympics: Thornaby Pavilion held a day of free Mini Paralympics sporting taster sessions for adults with disabilities, such as fencing, athletics, basketball and tennis. To find out more contact Natalie Smith in Stockton Council’s Leisure & Sports Development team on (01642) 528510 or email Natalie.smith@stockton. gov.uk
Daily reports of casualties and injuries to our armed forces in Afghanistan are a stark reminder of the great sacrifices they make. Now, for the first time, a regional project is looking at the health needs of exservicemen and women. Backed by all twelve North East councils, three working groups will be engaging directly with ex-service personnel and their families to help with the transition of returning to civilian life. An event in June attended by representatives of the armed forces, the Ministry of Defence, Department of
Health, Royal British Legion, councils and NHS heard about the kind of issues ex-service personnel face. These can range from physical, mental and financial requirements to housing needs. There is no general database of veterans’ health statistics and the Ministry of Defence does not keep central records of where ex-personnel go after leaving the services. This is when they may sometimes struggle – which can lead to drug and alcohol problems and crime.
A report in December will look at the committee’s conclusions, outlining its recommendations. If you would like a copy please contact Peter Mennear, Scrutiny Officer at Stockton Council on (01642) 528957 or email peter.mennear@ stockton.gov.uk
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Making healthy choices for all Local caterers’ menus are healthier thanks to help from Stockton Council’s Healthy Choice Partnership. This free pilot scheme helps caterers keep salt, sugar and fat in their food to a minimum. It also makes it easier for customers to eat healthily by ensuring menus signpost healthy options. The free scheme is open to retail catering outlets such as sandwich bars, cafes, restaurants and takeaways that have gained at least three stars under the Tees Valley Food Hygiene Award. If you are interested in registering can call (01642) 526534 or email lorraine. wilford@stockton.gov.uk
Health and Wellbeing
Breast is best The Borough’s Surestart Children’s Centres marked national breastfeeding week with events to support new mums. Sarah Heathwaite (pictured left) with baby Sophie, and Katie Taylor with baby Freddie were amongst those at a teddy bears’ picnic at Ropner Park, where breastfeeding mums brought their little ones to meet new people, get tips and advice and join in activities for babies and toddlers. To find out more about breastfeeding, drop in to any local Sure Start Children’s Centre or call Roslyn Nunn on (01642) 524923.
HEALTH &FITNESS
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Your Council
Council chooses new Leader and Cabinet system STOCKTON-ON-TEES BOROUGH COUNCIL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2000 (AS AMENDED)
Stockton Council has agreed the way the authority should be run in future.
elected by voters for a fouryear term. The Mayor would then choose councillors to be Deputy Mayor and Cabinet members.
Following changes in legislation and an extensive consultation with residents, Council members agreed a system involving a Council Leader with a Cabinet.
More than 26,000 people responded to the consultation during July.
This is similar to that currently in use. However, instead of councillors electing the Leader and Cabinet members annually, they would vote every four years for a Leader, who would then choose the Cabinet members. The Council would continue to appoint a Civic Mayor annually to carry out ceremonial and other duties. The legislation requires councils to adopt one of only two alternative systems – that recommended by Cabinet or a Mayor directly
David Bond, Stockton Council’s Director of Law and Democracy, said: “We were very encouraged by the response we received, with almost 19 per cent of the electorate replying to the postal consultation. “We asked electors to give a preference to two different options. 13,445 people opted for the Council Leader with a Cabinet system – similar to the way Stockton Council is currently run – and 12,513 people for a directly elected Mayor with a Cabinet.” The Council will introduce the new system in May next year after the local elections.
Are you registered? It’s time for the annual update of the Electoral (voting) Register. The law requires all residents to respond by either confirming the information we hold is correct or by letting us know of any changes. A form was delivered to all residents in August and canvassers will visit all properties which have not responded. You can respond by Freephone, internet or texting (standard text charges apply) or by posting the form back in the prepaid envelope with any changes. Please help to save the cost of using canvassers by providing the information as soon as possible. For more information visit the Council website www.stockton.gov.uk/annualcanvass or call the Registration helpline on (01642) 526196 or e-mail to: electoral@stockton.gov.uk
The Council has drawn up proposals for changing its governance arrangements. The main features of the new proposals are that the Council Leader will be appointed by Council for four years instead of one year and the Leader, not the Council, will appoint the other members of Cabinet. Copies of the proposals are available for inspection by request at the main Reception, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1LD, between the hours 9.00 am to 4.00 pm, Mondays to Fridays. Director of Law and Democracy
Cash in on the census Would you like to make some extra money? The forthcoming census may be an opportunity to do that. A census, takes place every ten years where information is gathered and used to provide population estimates which government, local authorities and other organisations use to fund and plan public services such as healthcare, education, housing and transport. There are paid roles available for the 2011 Census:
Census coordinators are needed to lead and motivate a team of up to 15 field staff, Special Enumerators cover communal establishments such as care homes and university halls of residence, collecting questionnaires and offering help and advice on completing them and Census Collectors contact householders to follow up on the non-return of completed census questionnaires. Recruitment began on September 20. For more information and to apply please visit www.censusjobs. co.uk
Members’ allowances In accordance with the Local Authorities (Members’ Allowances) (England) Regulations 2003 (as amended), the Council has agreed its Members’ Allowances Scheme for next year 2011/12. As there will be no change to the allowances which Members currently receive, the 2011/12 scheme will therefore be exactly the same as this year’s. A copy of the full scheme for 2011/12 is available for inspection on request at the Main Reception, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton, on Mondays–Fridays from 9am-4.30pm, or by contacting the Director of Law and Democracy, c/o Susan Ranson, tel (01642) 527061 or email susan.ranson@stockton.gov.uk. The Council can can also provide copies on request, on payment of reasonable photocopying charges.
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WARD SURGERIES
1st October 2010 – 30th November 2010
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamcentralward 13 Oct Billingham Youth & Community Centre 10 Nov Billingham Youth & Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS ANN McCOY Tel: 01642 535604 Email: ann.mccoy@stockton.gov.uk BARRY WOODHOUSE Tel: 01642 371638 Email: barry.woodhouse@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM EAST
www.stockton.gov.uk/billinghameastward 29 Oct New Life Family Centre 5:00pm – 5:45pm Synthonia Scout Group Hall 5:50pm – 6:30pm 26 Nov New Life Family Centre 5:00pm – 5:45pm Synthonia Scout Group Hall 5:50pm – 6:30pm COUNCILLOR MICK STOKER Tel: 01642 371641 Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.uk
For the children of tomorrow
BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamnorthward 11 Oct North Billingham Methodist Church 8 Nov High Grange Community Centre COUNCILLORS HILARY AGGIO Tel: 01642 565016 Email: hilary.aggio@stockton.gov.uk
From what started as the seed of an idea by local retired businessman Roger Black, a project has grown into something which has not only benefitted local children of today but also those who will live in the next century.
they needed such as pens, pencils, plastic folders, scissors glue and they even had their own individual 8.1 megapixel digital camera!
some incredible work. Their poignant thoughts, I’m sure, will be tremendously interesting for the children of tomorrow to read.’
The plan is for the files to be archived for 100 years in Bedale Library, Billingham, for the generation in 100 years time to see how different life was in 2010.
If you would like to see the children’s work before it is archived for the next 100 years, you have until the end of November to see it in Bedale Library, Billingham.
With a great deal of support planning and organisation more than 50 children, from schools in Billingham, vied to take part in the project ‘100 Years Gone – 100 Years On’. After six months of working in their own time each have produced an archive of their opinions, thoughts, lives and families for the generation living a 100 years from now.
Roger Black, said: “The children have produced
Roger Black with some of the files the children have produced.
An initiative by Billingham Environmental Link Programme and sponsored by Extended Schools, Billingham, and supported by Bedale Library, the children were each supplied with a superb tool kit to kick-start their work on the project. The kit included an upmarket zipped file containing everything
MRS LYNNE APEDAILE Tel: 01740 645216 Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.uk COLIN LECKONBY Tel: 01642 872896 Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamsouthward 14 Oct Billingham Branch Library 11 Nov Billingham Branch Library COUNCILLORS MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717 MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782 Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/billinghamwestward 29 Oct Wolviston Court Community Centre 26 Nov Wolviston Court Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS MARY WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755 MICK WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755
NORTHERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ northernparishesward No October surgery 4 Nov Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles COUNCILLOR JOHN GARDNER Tel: 01740 645357 Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk
North Billingham Residents Association: If you live in the area framed by Wolviston Road, Marsh House Avenue, Rievaulx Avenue and Seal Sands Road, you are a member of North Billingham Residents Association and are welcome at its meetings at the High Grange Community Centre. Usually lasting around an hour and a half, this year’s remaining meetings are at 7pm on 18 October and 15 November (none in December). You can raise any problems in your area and also hear what’s happening locally – for more information visit http://northbillra.webs. com/ Low Grange Residents Association meets at Low Grange Community Centre, Low Grange Avenue, Billingham on the first Thursday in the month at 7pm. The next meeting is October 7 with the Annual General Meeting on November 4. Everyone is welcome and if you would like to raise any issues on the area where you live, please contact Sharon Scott, Chairman, on (01642) 874769.
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WARD SURGERIES
1st October 2010 – 30th November 2010
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickeastward 7 Oct All Saints C of E Secondary School 10 Nov All Saints C of E Secondary School Maltby & Hilton Ward Surgeries are held for 30 minutes prior to each Parish Council meeting in the Village Halls on an appointment only basis. Please contact Councillors Faulks, Harrington or Larkin to book an appointment. Residents are very welcome to attend the monthly Ward Surgery held in Ingleby Barwick COUNCILLORS KEVIN FAULKS Tel: 01642 764874 Email: kevin.faulks@stockton.gov.uk DAVID HARRINGTON Tel: 01642 764652 Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.uk
INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
Councillor Allison Trainer Stockton Borough Council has paid tribute to Councillor Allison Trainer (pictured) who died in August after a long battle with cancer.
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickwestward 7 Oct All Saints C of E Secondary School 10 Nov All Saints C of E Secondary School COUNCILLORS KEN DIXON Tel: 01642 764650 Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.uk JEAN KIRBY Tel: 01642 762092 Email: jean.kirby@stockton.gov.uk ROSS PATTERSON Tel: 01642 764865 Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
www.stockton.gov.uk/ mandalevictoriaward 30 Oct Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre 12:00 noon – 1:00pm 27 Nov Thornaby Library 11:00am – 12:00 noon COUNCILLORS TINA LARGE Tel: 01642 671903 Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.uk STEVE WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176
STAINSBY HILL
www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward 16 Oct Thornaby Pavilion 11:00am – 12:00 noon 18 Nov South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm COUNCILLORS MRS EILEEN CRAGGS MBE Tel: 01642 764858 Email: eileen.craggs@stockton.gov.uk MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 602375 Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
VILLAGE
5:00PM – 6:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/villageward 4 Oct Thornaby Pavilion 1 Nov Thornaby Pavilion COUNCILLORS IAN DALGARNO Tel: 01642 882985 MICK EDDY Tel: 01642 765919
New play space
Allison, 44, was elected to the Council for the Mandale and Victoria ward, Thornaby, in May 2003 and served as a member of the Thornaby Independents Association (TIA). Since diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, she has fought the disease while continuing to work hard for residents. She also raised thousands of pounds for the University Hospital of North Tees and other charities. Mother to three children, Michael, 27, Darren, 23 and Adam, 12 she is also survived by husband, Mick. During her time as a Stockton Borough Councillor she was chair of the Council’s Housing and Community Safety Select Committee, was a member of the Executive Scrutiny Committee, served on the Licensing Committee from 20052007 and was also a Board Member of Tristar Homes.
Thornaby children have a new play space to enjoy thanks to funding from Stockton Council, Provident Finance and Thornaby Town Council. The Mayor of Thornaby opened the Mary Street play space in August. Prisoners from HMP Kirklevington made the play equipment and the play area was completed with help from offenders working with Teesside Probation Services who cleared the site and painted the fencing. Pictured trying out the equipment is left to right Leighlen Rodgers, Rees Rodgers, Kurtis Gibson and Isaac Jones.
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WARD SURGERIES
1st October 2010 – 30th November 2010
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON) www.stockton.gov.uk/ bishopsgarthelmtreeward 4 Oct Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 12 Oct Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 1 Nov Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 9 Nov Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm COUNCILLORS MRS SUZANNE FLETCHER MBE Tel: 01642 787652 Email: suzanne.fletcher@stockton.gov.uk MRS JULIA CHERRETT Tel: 01642 785473 Email: julia.cherrett@stockton.gov.uk
FAIRFIELD 6:00PM – 6:30PM
Who-ray! for intrepid independent retailer A new gift shop has opened its doors in Stockton. As well as offering an online service, Who-ray!, based in Silver Street, sells alternative gift choices for birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions as well as candles, bath bombs, textiles and ranges in both ethnic and retro style. The shop also stocks TV/film-related toys and action figures and collectables from Doctor Who, Star Wars and others. To find out more visit http://shop.who-ray.co.uk or call (01642) 608848.
Strictly Splash Two ballroom dancers are training hard at the fitness studios at Splash, Stockton, in a bid to make a name in the highly competitive world of ballroom dancing. Danyelle Clarke, dancing since the age of eight, holds a weekly adult class at Splash on Monday evenings. She has paired up with Russian born Igor Strukov who has performed with ballet and contemporary companies in Russia, the USA and London. The pair have ambitions to represent England in the World Championships. To find out more about ballroom dancing at Splash call (01642) 527272.
www.stockton.gov.uk/fairfieldward 11 Oct Fairfield Library 8 Nov Fairfield Library COUNCILLORS MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914 BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409
GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward 11 Oct Fairfield Library 1 Nov Hartburn Scout Group Hut COUNCILLORS PHILLIP BROUGHTON Tel: 01642 765325 Email: phillip.broughton@stockton.gov.uk AIDAN COCKERILL Tel: 01642 613258 Email: aidan.cockerill@stockton.gov.uk
HARDWICK WARD 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward 8 Oct Hardwick Community Centre 22 Oct Hardwick Community Centre 5 Nov Hardwick Community Centre 19 Nov Hardwick Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS LIZ NESBITT Tel: 01642 601731 BILL NOBLE Tel: 01642 671609
HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:30PM www.stockton.gov.uk/hartburnward 4 Oct Holy Trinity Rosehill CE Primary School 1 Nov Elmwood Community Centre COUNCILLORS TERRY LAING Tel: 01642 587356 Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.uk KEN LUPTON Tel: 01642 587286 Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk
NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/newtownward 1 Oct Newtown Community Resource Centre 15 Oct Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 29 Oct Newtown Community Resource Centre 12 Nov Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 26 Nov 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
NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonnorthward 13 Oct Frederick Nattrass School 27 Oct Norton Library 10 Nov Norton North Community & Resource Centre
COUNCILLORS MAURICE FRANKLAND Tel: 01642 643443 MRS KATH NELSON Tel: 01642 555729 Email: kathryn.nelson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonsouthward 1 Oct Albany Resource Centre 15 Oct Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 29 Oct Lustrum Community House 12 Nov Albany Resource Centre 26 Nov Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place COUNCILLORS BOB COOK TEL: 01642 890058 Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.uk STEVE NELSON TEL: 01642 534417 Email: steve.nelson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward 5 Oct The Education Centre 9 Nov The Education Centre COUNCILLORS MRS ANN CAINS Tel: 01642 555394 Email: ann.cains@stockton.gov.uk DICK CAINS JP Tel: 01642 555394 Email: dick.cains@stockton.gov.uk
PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ parkfieldoxbridgeward 7 Oct Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rix only) 21 Oct Oxbridge Christian Fellowship 4 Nov Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rix only) 18 Nov Oxbridge Christian Fellowship COUNCILLORS MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420 ROY RIX Tel: 01642 674861 Email: roy.rix@stockton.gov.uk
ROSEWORTH www.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward 12 Oct Kiora Hall Youth & Community Centre 2:00pm – 3:00pm 8 Nov Kiora Hall Youth & Community Centre 5:15pm – 6:15pm COUNCILLORS JIM BEALL Tel: 01642 602510 Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.uk MISS BARBARA INMAN Tel: 01642 586564 Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk
STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/ stocktontowncentreward 7 Oct The Willows Centre 14 Oct Parkfield Community Centre 21 Oct Victoria Community Centre 28 Oct Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre 4 Nov The Willows Centre 11 Nov Parkfield Community Centre 18 Nov Victoria Community Centre 25 Nov Cornerhouse Community Resource Centre COUNCILLORS DAVID COLEMAN Tel: 01642 673952 Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk PAUL KIRTON Tel: 01642 559331
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Stockton News September / October 2010
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WARD SURGERIES
1st October 2010 – 30th November 2010
http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/
EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 1 Oct Trinity Methodist Church 6:30 – 7:30pm 19 Oct Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00 – 7:00pm 5 Nov Trinity Methodist Church 6:30 – 7:30pm 16 Nov Egglescliffe Community Centre 6:30 – 7:30pm COUNCILLORS JOHN FLETCHER Tel: 01642 787652 Email: john.fletcher@stockton.gov.uk ALAN LEWIS Tel: 01642 784910 Email: alan.lewis@stockton.gov.uk MRS MAUREEN RIGG Tel: 01642 785689 Email: maureen.rigg@stockton.gov.uk
Shrinking Yarm Fair Violette
WESTERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/ westernparishesward 4 Oct Chapel School, Carlton 9 Nov The Wilson Institute, Long Newton COUNCILLOR FRED SALT Tel: 01740 630771
YARM 6:00PM – 6:45PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/yarmward 5 Oct Levendale Primary School 2 Nov Yarm Library COUNCILLORS MRS JENNIE BEAUMONT Tel: 01642 785304 Email: jennie.beaumont@stockton.gov.uk JACKIE EARL Tel: 01642 786346 ANDREW SHERRIS Tel: 01642 786767 Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.uk
Bridal boutique
Yarm’s annual fair takes place from Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 October when the High Street will close between Bridge St and Bentley Wynd on 12 October from 5:30 to 9pm; on 14 and 15 October 6pm to midnight, and 10:45am to midnight on 16 October. Signed diversions will be via West Street. A free Park and Ride service will run every 1520 minutes from the Oakwood Centre, Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe from 6pm, the last bus leaving Yarm at 11:50pm.
Recently opened luxury lingerie boutique Violette has not only raised £200 for Breast Cancer Care its first months of trading but has become a collection point for Zimbabwean charity, Knickers for Africa, which sees bras donated in this country sent to the continent. Located on Yarm High Street and run by Leslie Kenneally (pictured), Violette offers a complimentary bra fitting service and a wide range of underwear, swimwear and hosiery brands. Visit www.violette-lingeries. co.uk or call (01642) 791220 for information.
On Saturday, access to Silver Street and the supermarket car park will be from the Yarm Bridge end of the High Street. There will be pedestrian access at all times. Buses will operate as follows during the High Street closures: Leven Valley 577 will operate the evening service from Stockton via the West Street diversion. Arriva services 7 and 12A also diverted via West Street, with temporary stops at Bridge Street. On Saturday the daytime 507 will terminate, as in previous years, at the junction of the A67 The Spital with Worsall Road. The X6 will not serve Yarm High Street or Tesco but will operate to Leven Road, then into Thirsk Road – Green Lane – Davenport Road – The Meadowings – Worsall Road then into The Spital to pick up the return route.
Having made the decision to leave her job as an account manager for a North East engineering firm, Miranda Holland, 42, from Eaglescliffe has fulfilled a longstanding dream. Miranda (pictured) is now the proud owner of Miranda Marie Bridal Boutique at 57 Yarm High Street. She offers a wide choice across a range of prices and fabrics. To make sure no detail is left unturned, she also stocks bridal accessories including shoes, bags, veils, headdresses, tiaras and jewellery. To find out more or to book an appointment visit www. mirandamarie.com or call (01642) 913551.
s ’ t a h W O
n
r Regula Events Let your kids get crafty
It’s all happening at Fairfield Library. There’s a new Parent & Toddler Group every Wednesday from 10–11am and Friday 2–3pm during term time. All under fives and their parents/carers are welcome and there’s also an art and craft club for 5–13 year olds. 5–8 years olds meet fortnightly on Saturday mornings from 10.30am–12 noon and 9–13 year olds meet fortnightly on Wednesday evenings 5.30–6.30pm. Call the library on (01642) 527962.
A look at what’s going on around the Borough during
Parent and toddler group
Norton Library Every Friday in term time. Come and play, make friends, enjoy stories and songs. Free with refreshments available for children. Tel 528019.
Crafty kids club
Norton Library Every Saturday 10.30-11.30am, free. Tel 528019.
Wednesday talks
Norton Library. Every first Wednesday of the month – 3pm. Guest speaker and Refreshments. Free. Tel 528019.
Scrabble group
Norton Library every Wednesday 1pm Tel 528019.
r
Octobe
Celebrate Black History Month
1 Oct – Awards dinner at Middlesbrough Town Hall to acknowledge BME refugees and new communities. 9 Oct, 1-5pm, The Hub on Southfield Road, talent contest hosted by Stage Star, an organisation which nurtures the talent of young people in the North East. 15 Oct, 6-10pm – A taste of Africa, Middlesbrough Town Hall. Enjoy African performances, food, fashion and much more. To find out more email info@culturescic.co.uk or Tel 611443.
1, 8, 15, 22, 29 October Public Observing
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 9-10.30pm, free. Tel (01740) 630544 email: director@wynyard-planetarium.net
7, 8, 9 October Circus of Earthly Delights - Murder Mystery Hula fitness for 5-11 years
Ingleby Barwick Community Centre, Haresfield Way, each Monday 4.30–5.30pm, £2 per session. To book a place tel 524599.
Thornaby gaming group
Renovations at Preston Hall mean a move for Stockton Council’s annual murder mystery to the Georgian Theatre in Stockton’s Cultural Quarter, see page 24 for details. Tickets available at the Green Dragon Studios, tel 606525.
Thornaby Library, every Friday, 3–5pm, challenge your friends on the PS3 and Wii, booking advised. Tel 528150
Homework help sessions
Thornaby Library, every Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri, 3-7pm. Get help with your studies and homework. Tel 528150.
Making a mess: under 5s club
Preston Hall Museum & Park. Every Tuesday until 16 November,12.30-2.30pm. Have fun in this arts and crafts session and discover exciting new areas of the Museum. Free with normal admission, refreshments provided, booking advisable. Tel 527820.
History walks: Learn about Stockton’s heritage
Stockton Town Centre, Mondays and Tuesdays. To book email tourist.information@stockton.gov.uk or Tel 528130.
Colouring Clubs
Roseworth Library Every day except Wednesday 3pm – 6pm Tel 528098 Billingham Library Every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am. Materials provided. Tel 527895 Thornaby Library Every day except Wednesday and Saturday, 3-7pm. Tel 528150.
Cinema and comedy at ARC
Visit www.arconline.co.uk or tel ARC’s box office on 525199 to get the latest cinema listings and comedy line-ups for the autumn.
Boys Brigade
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle, Every Monday, 7.159pm. Suitable for 11-15 years, 50p per session. For details tel 602478.
9 October Butterwick Hospice Ceilidh
The Swan, Billingham, 7.30-11pm featuring live band ‘Blind Stag’, tickets £10 including pie and pea supper. Tel 628930 or email mandyshields@ butterwick.org.uk
9 October Young people’s reading group Thornaby Library, 11am-12noon Come and have a chat about your latest read. Suitable for 10-16 years. Tel 528150.
Stockton News September / October 2010
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October and November 2010 12-16 October Yarm Fair
The fun fair returns to Yarm. The High Street will be open for business as usual. For details visit www. yarmtowncouncil.co.uk
15 October A Hitch-Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7.30-9pm, free. Tel (01740) 630 544 email: director@wynyard-planetarium.net.
17 October Friends of Ropner Park Autumn Fair
2-4pm. Attractions and games with music from the Old Glory jazz band, free. Tel 633767 or see www.forp.org.uk for details.
29 October Family Friday: Horrifying Halloween Arts & Crafts
Preston Hall Museum & Park 10.30-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm, free with normal admission, drop in, suitable for age 5+. Tel 527375.
31 October Halloween Fright Night
Preston Hall Museum & Park. The annual spooky adventure through the Museum and grounds. No public parking on site, coaches available from outside Yarm Town Hall, Swallow Hotel and Peter Barratts in Stockton from 6pm. Tickets available from Stockton’s Tourist Information Centre, tel 528130 or the Museum. Tel 527375, £4 per person.
ber
Novem
6 November Christmas shopping trip to Meadowhall, Sheffield.
Buses depart from Splash in Stockton at 8.30am, returning at 5pm. Tickets £17, money raised in aid of Butterwick Hospice. Tel 628930 or email mandyshields@butterwick.org.uk
12 and 13 November Winter Bazaar
Thornaby Central Library, 10am-4pm. More than 20 stalls selling cards, crafts and much more. Tel 528117.
14 November Remembrance Sunday
Various parades and services will take place in Stockton, Thornaby, Norton, Yarm, Billingham, Egglescliffe and Port Clarence. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/poppy
3 November Murder Mystery
Roseberry Library, Billingham, 7pm. Crime writer Roz Southey hosts the murder mystery evening. Tickets £5 from any Stockton Borough Library or tel 528084. Light refreshments provided.
25 October Games, Games, Games
Thornaby Library, 2-4pm. Challenge your friends to your favourite card or board game. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking advised, tel 528150.
27 October Whiz Kid Wednesday: Creepy crafts
17 November Meteors!
Preston Hall Museum & Park, 10.30-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm, free with normal admission. Drop in, suitable for age 5+. Tel 527375.
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 8pm-6.30am. Tel (01740) 630544 or email: director@wynyard-planetarium.net
28 October Children’s Halloween craft session Thornaby Library, 2-3.30pm. Ages 5+, under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking advised. Tel 528150.
5 November Stockton Fireworks
Riverside Road, Stockton. Stockton’s annual free fireworks – the biggest and brightest in the area. For details contact Stockton’s Tourist Information Centre, tel 528130 or email: touristinformation@stockton. gov.uk
19 November A Hitch-Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
Wynyard Planetarium, Wynyard Woodland Park, 7.30-9pm. Tel (01740) 630544 or email: director@wynyard-planetarium.net