Stockton News - July 2010 by Stockton Council

Stockton

news July/August 2010

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council

contents July/August 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...

Tenants say ‘yes’

Page 9

Your pull-outs for some fantastic events

Centre pages

Jane puts the icing on the cake

Page 18

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.

News Round Up

Economic Regeneration and Transport

Environment and Housing

Community Safety

Children and Young People

Adults Services

Arts, Culture and Leisure

Strong Communities

Health and Wellbeing

Your Council

Focus On Your Area

What’s On

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 - Armed Forces Day celebrations, Stockton welcomes the Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards).

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

News Round Up

You will no doubt have heard a great deal of media coverage of the public sector spending cuts announced by Government. We are beginning to receive details of some of the immediate cuts but must await the Comprehensive Spending Review in October before we have full details of the challenge facing us locally. It is clear though that we are facing a huge task on a scale not witnessed in many years. However we have a strong foundation to face this challenge with confidence here in Stockton. We have a strong track record of achieving value for money, we had anticipated these difficult times and have a planned approach for carrying out a comprehensive review of our entire organisation to ensure that we are operating as effectively as possible. You can be sure that we will continue to handle this work sensitively and transparently and will work as far as possible to minimise the effect on our frontline services.

Bridge re-opens three weeks early

Even during these difficult times, I’m delighted there is so much news about the success of our local businesses – take a look at the inspiring stories on pages 4 and 5. I’d like to thank all those who took part in and supported the Armed Forces day celebrations – and particularly those who made the parade in Stockton on 26th June such a success. It was wonderful that thousands of people packed the Town Centre to welcome the Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards) back from Afghanistan and have the troops receiving the freedom scroll from our Mayor. My thanks also to the thousands of Tristar tenants who took the time to vote in the ballot to decide whether Stockton’s Council houses should be transferred to a new style not-for-profit company. An overwhelming 90% of voters supported the transfer and we now have a real opportunity to raise millions of pounds to invest in these homes and services. I’d particularly like to thank the tenants’ group who have put in a huge amount of time to the process. Finally, it’s that time of year when we look forward to our spectacular Stockton International Riverside Festival & Fringe and indeed a packed summer of events. First and foremost events like these provide top quality entertainment here in Stockton, but they also bring important investment, economic benefit and visitors to the area. I hope you’ll join us for a great summer of fun across the Borough!

Neil Schneider Chief Executive, Stockton Borough Council

Works to Leven Bridge, Yarm, were competed ahead of schedule and opened in June instead of July as contractors, Birse Civils worked round the clock to complete the works three weeks early. The A1044 Low Lane/Leven Bank Road was closed on the discovery of surface damage to the road at the end of February.

Acting Head of Technical Services, for Stockton Council, Richard McGuckin, said: “The works to repair the extensive damage to Leven Bridge were complicated and required specialist engineers and divers. “We understand the disruption caused by the closure of such a well-used route and appreciate the patience and understanding shown by motorists while the works were carried out.”

Everyone can achieve! Households across the Borough should now have received details of more than 900 courses to choose from in the new Tees Achieve prospectus. With learning opportunities in more than 75 local buildings, Tees Achieve can also help you decide which courses will suit you, tell you about childcare while you study, open learning, career opportunities, help with CVs and interview techniques. There are details of learner support and financial support for paying course and exam fees, travel costs, books and equipment.

Courses include Arts and Crafts, Bridge, Beauty Skills, and Holistic Therapies, Computing, Cookery, DIY, Education and Training, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Employability, Family Learning, First Aid, Flower Arranging, Health and Fitness, Hospitality, Languages and Communication, Music, Skills for Life and Sign Language. To find our more about the courses and how to pay visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ adulted or call Tees Achieve on (01642) 527904 or by post or in person to Billingham Community Centre, The Causeway, Billingham TS23 2DA.

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 3

Welcoming our troops Stockton celebrated Armed Forces Day in style as the 2nd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards) paraded through the town centre with colours flying and bayonets fixed, before receiving the Freedom of the Borough from Stockton Council. On 9 September, The Rifles (formerly The Light Infantry) will also come to Stockton to exercise their freedom with a parade. This will start at 12.30pm at Church Road and continue down the High Street, halting outside the Town Hall where they will be granted Freedom of the Borough, followed by a civic reception.

Whitewater wonder!

The upgrading of the Tees Barrage is well under way and is expected to be completed later this year. The £4.6 million improvements to the existing white water course will ensure an international standard facility, attracting world class athletes and events. The site is already confirmed as a pre-Games Training Camp ahead of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympics Games.

As part of the improvements four 12m x 3m diameter Archimedean screws are being installed. The project is the only installation in the world where the screws are used as both pumps and generators of electricity, providing the UK’s first fully sustainable white water course. For updates on the work visit www.teesactive.co.uk Funding for the multi-million pound project comes from Regional Development Agency One North East, Stockton Council, Sport England and British Waterways.

It’s a yes from tenants 10,400 Council houses are in for £140 million worth of improvements after more than half of tenants voted in favour of transferring their homes to a new style not-for-profit Tristar Homes who will now become their new landlord. See page 9 for more details.

Handy help There’s so much going on in and around Stockton Borough and we don’t want you to miss a single thing! Hang on to the handy pull-out booklet in the centre of Stockton News as well as the section on Stockton International Riverside Festival and you will have all the information at your fingertips. We will be producing another in the autumn.

news Stockton

Economic Regeneration and Transport

Helping businesses over the threshold Help is on hand for existing small businesses to overcome their difficulties with problems such as VAT registration or taking on that first employee. The ‘Over the Threshold’ project offers support to overcome these barriers - it can help explain the impact of increases in turnover tax, how to access training or when employees need special checks to do a particular job.

One business helped by ‘over the threshold’ is Irene Jessop Funeral Service of Thornaby. Although often thought of as a male preserve, that hasn’t put off Irene Jessop, a Thornaby resident for almost 30 years. A qualified funeral director and embalmer for 19 years, she decided the time was right to set up Irene Jessop Funeral Service with Sheila Leyden. Both have extensive experience from working for other local

Making a dent in the business world

‘Over the Threshold’ is funded by Stockton Council and the European Regional Development Fund with Business & Enterprise North East. To speak to Mark David, Business Link Adviser, call 07827 352861 or email: mark.david@businesslinknortheast. co.uk or call Stockton Council’s Business Development Team on (01642) 528384, or email business.enquiries@stockton.gov.uk

Daniel with his wife Cecilia and daughter Elicia

In these tough economic times, many people are just glad to have a job. But Billingham man Daniel Sanchez, 30, took the plunge and decided to start his own business. Just a few months down the line, he’s surprised by his own success.

funeral directors and close knowledge of the local community. When it came to finding out about exactly how to run a business, they found help at an ‘Over the Threshhold’ workshop. Supported by Stockton Council it covered everyday matters like dealing with tax and VAT. They also received help from The Five Lamps Organisation. You can find their business on Lanehouse Road, Thornaby - tel (01642) 601736.

More for road repairs: After last winter’s freezing conditions took their toll on the

Borough’s roads, the Council secured £208,000 from the Government in May for essential repairs. However, with the real cost of the damage around £500,000, the Council released an extra £300,000 to complete the work. This means we will invest more than £11 million on the Borough’s roads over the next three years. You can report damaged roads – visit www.stockton. gov.uk and click on the ‘report it’ section or call (01642) 391959.

Sanchez Re-Sprays, on Leeholme Road in Billingham, repairs non-fault accident damage, dents, bumper scuffs, scratches, stone chips, wing mirrors and alloy wheels. Support for his venture came from Stockton Council, Business and Enterprise North East and the North East of England Investment Centre. If you would like information on business support, call (01642) 528384 or email business.enquiries@stockton. gov.uk

DID

YOU KNOW?

Business & Enterprise NE helps people who want to start up their own business. In the last year they have helped around 2,500 businesses in Stockton. To find out more visit www.be-ne.co.uk

If you want help, information or advice about starting or developing your own

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 5

The writing’s on the wall Supplying the demand Funding from Stockton Council has enabled a fresh thinking communications company to buy the computer equipment needed to set up in business. Sarah Rudd (pictured), 26, of Stockton, runs Graffiti PR and is committed to helping businesses grow their reputation.

experience the advantages of raising their public profile without the risk of costly fees with no results.

Sarah has worked in the industry for more than five years and, aiming to become one of the area’s leading agencies within three years, is determined to ensure marketing is accessible to all businesses, whatever their size.

To contact Sarah, call (01642) 766527 or 07929 899912, visit www.graffitipr.co.uk or email sarah@graffitipr.co.uk

˝I’ve always had a strong ambition to be my own boss and a passion to help businesses grow, so the decision to set up Graffiti PR was simple. We have thousands of fantastic businesses in the region and it’s important to shout about them.”

A new school staff recruitment agency in Stockton Business Centre is School House Recruitment Ltd, which began life in February with support funding from

After working in supply teaching for several years, Claire Moore (pictured) and husband Paul spotted a gap in the market for a smaller, local agency with a friendly, approachable way of doing business. Their database of teachers and school support workers is growing rapidly, with new clients joining every week. To find out more, call Claire on (01642) 345278 or visit www. schoolhouserecruitment. co.uk

Yes he did!

Her company offers a unique ‘no coverage, no fee’ PR package called Get Tagged, so businesses of all sizes can

Stockton Council, Business Link and Enterprise Revolution.

Bridge lands more awards

Chris Petty, (pictured) founder of Cornerstone Business Solutions, in Thornaby, is the Tees Valley’s face of Entrepreneurship for 2011 and won the Gazette’s If We Can You Can challenge. Cornerstone, which deals in communications and technology, has grown rapidly since 2008 and employs nine people.

Better bus travel The beautiful Infinity Bridge across the Tees has yet another award, as one of five regional winners in the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Awards 2010. It now goes forward to the national finals later this year. In Las Vegas during May, lighting architects Speirs and Major Associates won the Excellence Award for their work on the bridge at the International Association of

Lighting Designers awards. Last year Infinity Bridge beat off more than 100 global entries to land the Institution of Structural Engineers’ Supreme Award for Structural Engineering Excellence. Infinity Bridge was built by Stockton Council and Tees Valley Unlimited with support from regional development agency One North East, the Homes and Communities Agency and local firm Balfour Beatty.

Improvements to bus services across the Tees Valley are set to go ahead over the next four years, following final Department of Transport approval. In Stockton, three major schemes and several minor improvements are set to start this year. 20 weeks of work at Mandale Triangle, Thornaby, began in June. This will introduce a contra-flow bus lane between the Five Lamps roundabout on George

Street and the existing signals on Mandale Road, to the east side of Victoria Bridge, over which bus lanes will run. The bridge deck is being waterproofed and resurfaced at the same time. In August, improvements will start at the A177 Durham Road/Hardwick Road junction, lasting eight weeks. The third major scheme, expected to start in September, will improve South Stockton Link from the northbound approach to Concorde Way and the Bowesfield Crescent roundabout.

business call Stockton Council’s Business Development team on (01642) 528384.

news Stockton

Economic Regeneration and Transport

Billingham Masterplan approved It’s great news for Billingham residents as Stockon Council formally agreed the Masterplan for the town’s redevelopment. Submitted by developers Stockland, it follows last November’s public consultation, when Billingham residents showed their enthusiasm for proposals to improve their town centre. The approval enables work on the regeneration scheme to go ahead in phases. First will come refurbishment of the former Kwik Save building in the East Precinct to make way for a national retailer, followed by a new food store in the West Precinct.

and investing around £75,000 in a new CCTV system which was due to be in operation by the end of June. To complement Stockland’s development plans, 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. Richard Poundford, the Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “This is another step forward for the regeneration of Billingham and we look forward to working with the developers to provide facilities and a shopping area the people of Billingham and visitors to the town will enjoy.”

Next will be refurbishment and possible extension of the current Asda unit. A new store is also proposed for the East Precinct in front of the Forum, where refurbishment is currently in progress. Other improvements will include shop refurbishment, new lighting, paving, planting and other new facilities in the shopping area, with new public toilets and a play park. Over the coming months, Stockland will submit planning applications for the different phases, with a view to completing the works by the end of 2012. In the meantime, Stockland are carrying out maintenance in the town centre

Lottery boost hope for Stockton Stockton’s historic town centre could be in line for further regeneration after the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) earmarked £1.8 million for the town. At this stage it does not guarantee funding and, although it indicates positive support, competition is still tough. However, the Council can now develop a detailed application to try and secure the full award. Council staff are now working on restoration plans for several areas. Physical changes would include reinstating some of the unique historic features of existing buildings to enhance Stockton as a place to visit and shop, and improve links between the town centre and cultural quarter. Another initiative is The Townscape Heritage Initiative which is part of the Stockton Heritage in Partnership (SHiP) scheme, which aims to revitalise the area’s important heritage. Both schemes will work with property owners to return unoccupied buildings to use and encourage

further investment in the area. Plans also include providing volunteers with opportunities to take up work placements and learn traditional building skills. Richard Poundford, Head of Regeneration and Economic Development for Stockton Council, said: “We are delighted at this initial stage HLF have chosen to initially support our ongoing work for Stockton to secure an economically vibrant future whilst retaining its character. We will press on with submitting further plans in the

hope we will secure the funding the town richly deserves.”

History walk: Tourist Information

staff offer a light-hearted, free, 45-minute guided walk to explore Stockton’s heritage on Mondays or Tuesdays. Learn how the High Street and riverside developed through the ages, see some of the oldest buildings and hear how local industries have changed. To book, email tourist. information@stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 528130.

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 7

What a Shambles! Stockton’s Shambles Market Hall is bristling with business and the redevelopment of this Grade II listed building, smack in the centre of England’s widest High Street, offers a great shopping experience with plenty of variety. The Shambles houses small, friendly businesses and is well worth a visit to see what’s on offer. If you have a package which needs to be sent out locally, or nationally, Antony O’Neill at The Parcel Shop offers a drop off point and will deliver your parcel to its destination for a set fee which is very competitive. Parcels are fully insured too so why not pop in when you next have something to send.

Stockton’s Tourist Information Centre (TIC) recently relocated to the Shambles from the Central Library and provides local, regional and national tourist related information including events, places of interest and places to stay.

Paul Bartonby at Quick Cuts can help spruce the gents up but watch out as he may burst into song! And if you’re planning a night out Chris Marhn at Shoe Repairs will bring your dancing shoes up to scratch and can also cut you a spare key.

Nicola Brown who runs Polly Anna’s offers a great variety of baby wear and many other items needed for little ones with lovely designs and if you need a picture framing of those little ones then Barbara Wills has a great range of frames at her business ‘Picture Framing’.

news Stockton

Environment and Housing

Proud of our Borough! Stockton will be up against cities in Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands and Slovenia as part of the Entente Florale competition 2010. This is Europe’s biggest environment competition and the honour of taking part follows Stockton’s 2009 Gold award success in the national Britain in Bloom competition, when we won the title of Best City. Entente Florale is not just about flowers but about working with communities and businesses to provide fantastic quality urban environments which, attracts shoppers, visitors and businesses. The local business community share our pride and sponsor the vast majority of roundabouts which helps offset minimal costs associated with being part of other competitions. The Royal Horticultural Society nominated Stockton for Entente Florale as last year’s win makes us ineligible to enter this year’s Britain in Bloom. Stockton must show how it engages with its local communities to achieve a green, sustainable and colourful town and communicates awareness of the environment. We will learn the Entente Florale results in September.

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 9

Stockton tenants say ‘Yes’ £140 million improvement plans for Stockton’s 10,400 Council houses are on track after tenants voted in favour of transferring their homes to a new-style, notfor-profit Tristar Homes. For the transfer to take place, more than half the 12,000 tenants to vote had to support it in a ballot, carried out by the independent Electoral Reform Services. 59 per cent voted, more than 89 per cent of them in favour of the transfer. Tenant Liz Kidd, who chaired a tenants’ group which helped the Council explore the options, was very pleased, saying: “This is great news and reflects the hard work of all involved, especially tenants. I’m sure I speak for all tenants when I say we can’t wait for the investment in our homes and services.” Tristar Homes will now become a not-for-profit registered provider of social housing – and the new landlord. Tenants and the Council would be equally represented on its Board. Details are still to be agreed before the transfer becomes a reality, including final Government approval, which land and buildings will go with the houses, which services the Council will continue to provide and other matters.

£13 million more would be available for local environmental improvements, with Tristar agreeing priorities with tenants and tenant groups. The Council’s Chief Executive, Neil Schneider, said: ”This result is tremendous news for tenants and will secure millions of pounds of investment in their homes and services. “The tenants are at the heart of this and I would like to thank them and everyone who has been involved in achieving this successful ballot. We can now focus our attention on making this vision a reality.”

Steve Boyd, Chief Executive of Tristar Homes, said: “Everyone involved has risen to the challenges we faced during this journey and the result just shows how much this means to people. “This is a massive vote of confidence in Tristar Homes from tenants. I am confident of our future success in Stockton and look forward to working with everyone to achieve our ambitions." Neither the Council nor Tristar Homes had any involvement in the ballot process. The result was:

Number

11965

7023

Total valid votes cast

7000

58.7%

Voting YES

6273

89.6%

Voting No

727

10.4%

52.4%

8.6 to 1

Total electorate - tenants eligible Total votes cast Less spoiled/invalid votes

Voting yes as a % total electorate Yes/No ratio of votes

The Council and Tristar websites and the ‘Tristar News’ magazine will keep tenants up to date on progress. If all goes to plan, the transfer should be completed and the new-style Tristar Homes established in 2011. Because it can access funding sources not open to the Council, Tristar can invest £140 million in improving and repairing homes across the Borough in the next five years. This would include double-glazed windows for homes that don’t already have them within three years of the transfer. The oldest kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems will be replaced within five years. Rents would stay affordable and the transfer will also mean more resources to tackle anti social behaviour, improvements in handling repairs and out-of-hours appointments, and a new handy person service for older tenants.

Tilery neighbours Ellen Marshall and David White are delighted at the ‘yes’ vote.

news Stockton

Environment and Housing

Stockton News July / August 2010

A DAY IN THE

LIFE

HELEN GERHARD Meet Helen Gerhard, Tristar Homes’ Patch Manager for Fairfield, Hartburn, Elmtree, Grangefield and Newham Grange.

She said: “We have a lot of community projects and I thoroughly enjoy working with local schools and bringing our customers together in various ways. This includes organising estate walkabouts to help improve the neighbourhoods – we advertise these and all residents are always welcome to come along.”

Page 11

“We have a lot of community projects and I thoroughly enjoy working with local schools”

Helen particularly enjoys working with children. She recently visited local schools with a puppet show to educate them on how to ‘Reduce, Re-use and Recycle’ and

she’s arranged Environment Days – planting seeds and vegetables in school gardens which are later harvested and used in recipes at the school. These have proved very popular with children and have definitely helped educate them on how to be more ‘green’.

Stockton resident Helen has worked with Tristar customers and other agencies for the past six years to improve the community and really make a difference to the lives of people living there.

She has also helped to improve communal areas on housing estates. This involved placing bids through Tristar’s customer champions and led to the installation of planters with vibrant summer flower displays.

As the main point of contact for many customers, helping them settle into new homes, answering queries and carrying out regular home visits are just some of the many things she does every working day.

An important part of Helen’s role is dealing with and reducing antisocial behaviour. To do this she works closely with Cleveland Police, Stockton Council’s Anti Social Behaviour and Enforcement teams and support organisations for vulnerable people.

Helen also holds regular meetings with residents to discuss how Tristar can improve their neighbourhood and services.

She works closely with UNITE, who help resolve neighbour disputes through mediation to create a safe and happy environment for many of her customers. Achieving successful outcomes and seeing the difference made to estates is definitely one of the most rewarding parts of her job.

She brings the community together by organising and planning events such as ‘make a difference’ days, helping to clean up local estates and organising – and taking part in annual fun days, which are a great way to engage customers and their families. With no two days alike, Helen thoroughly enjoys her job which certainly keeps her on her toes.

With such a busy role, Helen boosts her energy levels by going to the gym. She also enjoys cooking and eating out. If you’re a Tristar customer pop along to their annual Fun Day at Preston Park on Thursday 12 August.

news Stockton

Environment and Housing

One-month amnesty for private landlords Some landlords or property owners may be unsure whether their properties need a licence for ‘Houses in Multiple Occupation’ or HMOs. HMOs are occupied by people who usually have their own living and sleeping accommodation but share facilities such as a kitchen or bathroom – for example bedsits, hostels and houses shared by students or others. HMOs must be licensed if they have: • three or more storeys, including basements and attics, and • five or more occupants forming more than one family unit, sharing facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.

HMO licensing began with the Housing Act 2004 and all landlords who operate these homes should have licences by now. Stockton Council is now beginning a campaign to identify all the properties in this higher risk category and ensure they are licensed. At the same time, a one-month amnesty will allow landlords to apply for any licences they need without fear of penalty until August 20. If you are a landlord and think this legislation applies to your property, we strongly encourage you to get in touch and find out what you need to do. It is the responsibility of the person who controls a HMO (usually the owner)

Facing floods

The Council and the Environment Agency are currently reducing the impact of flooding with key recommendations to reduce flood risk by: • Reducing rainfall surface run-off through sustainable urban drainage systems with more use of permeable surfaces allowing water to drain. • Ensuring developers take flood plains into account at the planning stage. • Improving the emergency response and developing one flood response plan for all agencies involved - defining roles and responsibilities. • Ensuring a smooth and effective recovery and encouraging businesses at risk to have a plan, eg for protection of vital records.

• Encouraging residents to prepare by giving information on areas at risk and warning systems. If your home is in danger of flooding you can prepare yourself and put together a flood kit – a torch, warm and waterproof clothing, water, food, medication, toys for children and pets, rubber gloves and Wellington boots. Store it in a safe place, ideally upstairs. Buy sandbags in advance from DIY stores, as the Council can’t issue sandbags in a flood. Prepare a personal flood plan – the Environment Agency’s website has an easy-to-use template – and make sure your property and contents are insured for flooding. For more information visit www.environment-agency. gov.uk

to apply for a licence and, if one is required, it’s a serious offence not to have one. Prosecutions can result in fines up to £20,000 plus costs. Convictions may also result in the previous 12 months’ rent being repaid to the tenants or the Council’s Housing Benefit Service. To find out more • call (01642) 527797 • email privatesectorhousing@ stockton.gov.uk • visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ hmolicence • www.communities.gov.uk/housing/ rentingandletting/privaterenting/ housesmultiple/ • write to Private Sector Housing Division,16 Church Road, Stockton TS18 1TX.

A loan could help your home If you are struggling to keep your home safe and comfortable, an affordable loan from the Council may be just what you need thanks to a new scheme to help homeowners who are experiencing difficulties, obtaining loans from banks or building societies. The ‘Helping Hand’ scheme offers advice and practical support to homeowners regardless of age, income or locality. Loans vary between low interest, repayment, equity or interest free depending upon applicants’ financial circumstances and range between £500 and £35,000. The Council has tried to make loans as affordable as possible with no set up

charges or penalties for early repayment. Even those not granted a loan will be offered a free survey and a schedule of work with details of local contractors who can undertake the work. If you think you may be eligible, and have lived in your home for more than one year, please ring the Private Sector Housing Division on (01642) 527797 for further details.

Stockton News July / August 2010

Electric avenue!

Page 13

High tech and low energy

gallon for a petrol car of the same size.

You will hardly hear a new car which is quietly humming along the Borough’s roads as Stockton Council has taken delivery of its first electric car. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV will be available as a pool car for staff and is much more environmentally friendly than a standard petrol or diesel. It can travel 80 miles on a single charge, hitting a top speed of 82 miles per hour and can be fully charged for just for £1.30 (based on 8p per kilowatt hour) giving a cost equivalent of an incredible 200 miles per

The Council gained £26,000 of funding from CENEX, the National Centre of Excellence for Low Carbon Vehicles, which reduces the cost to the Council to £387 per month for a four year lease period. This will eventually pay for itself by the savings made in paying petrol claims for staff carrying out their duties. The Council will be providing information about the car’s performance to CENEX for research purposes to help the car industry with future electric car development to help shape the future of car travel in the country. A network of up to 20 charging posts is being installed throughout Stockton within the next nine months, with more to follow all over the Tees Valley and the wider North East in the next few years.

Look at the leaflets! With the onset of summer, we start to think about repair jobs in the home. Now help is at hand with a range of handy leaflets to help you tackle repairs with confidence. The Council’s Private Sector Housing team produced the booklet ‘Caring For Your Home’, which is packed with useful information on how to identify and remedy simple problems. It even provides a list of contractors who may be able to help if you think the job is too big to do yourself. The Council also offers help from the Home Improvement Agency (HIA) and Handyperson services for people aged over 60 – and may be able to do the work free of charge.

To find out if the HIA or Handyperson can help you, ring Broadacres Home Improvement Agency on (01642) 345257. For a copy of the booklet and other leaflets, call (01642) 527797, email privatesectorhousing@ stockton.gov.uk or visit www. stockton.gov.uk/psh

Adam Humphreys of Invisible Systems demonstrates the energy-saving system to Egglescliffe Comprehensive School pupils (l-r) Zoe Buckle, Jorden Sumner, Anandna Bhatia, Luke Davis and Amy Sharpe.

Pupils from Egglescliffe Comprehensive School are using state-ofthe-art technology to monitor their school’s energy use, thanks to a partnership between Stockton Council and cutting edge company Invisible Systems.

used in the school. Because schools have so many rooms to heat and light, as well as lots of computers, kitchens and other equipment, they will always be heavy energy users. But the Real Time On-Line Energy Monitoring should really help us to cut back, making big cost savings and reducing our carbon output.”

The school is the first of 14 Stockton schools to install wireless ‘Real Time On-Line Energy Monitoring’.

Adam Humphreys, UK Sales Manager for Invisible Systems, said: “We’re thrilled this project is up and running. The school will soon see exactly where and when their energy use is highest and work towards reducing it and make real savings. We’ll soon get the other schools on line and the lessons learned can help those without the monitors save energy as well.”

The system records the energy used throughout the school and is accessed via a password protected website. The user-friendly display clearly shows where and when the most energy is being consumed, allowing the school to take action to reduce energy usage. Alan Richardson, Head of Science at Egglescliffe Comprehensive School, said: “The pupils will be actively involved in monitoring the system and we’ll be challenging them to come up with ideas of how we can cut down on the energy

Stockton Council secured £80,000 from the Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnership to fund the Real Time Energy Monitoring system for three years and is one of several regional projects supported by the partnership.

news Stockton

Community Safety

Crime survey reminder The last Stockton News described the Crime and Disorder Audit which the Safer Stockton Partnership is carrying out across the Borough. The crime audit takes place every three years and offers residents the opportunity to have their say about what matters most to them – whether it’s crime, anti social behavior or drugs. The short survey will drop through your letterbox in August and, by completing it, you’ll not only help us and your community identify areas of possible concern but you could also have the chance of winning a prize. The last crime audit, in 2007, identified five key priorities –

anti social behavior, criminal damage, drug abuse, violent crime and diverting young people from offending . The combined efforts of the Safer Stockton Partnership have made great progress on these targets, to make Stockton the safest place to live in the Tees Valley.

1 and 22 September and 20 October from 10-3pm. You can also contact Claire Sills in the Safer Stockton team on (01642) 527616 to arrange for a focus group meeting to take place in your area.

There are several ways to make sure your views are counted – complete the audit survey (pictured) when it’s delivered to your home or submit your survey form online at www.stockton.gov. uk/crimesurvey You can also attend one of the Wednesday drop-in sessions at the Stockton Council mobile trailer near the Shambles in Stockton Town Centre on 18 August,

Getting behind the smokescreen A campaign to reduce the amount of illegal tobacco across the region – including cheap foreign brands and counterfeit products – has won the backing of Stockton Council’s Trading Standards officers. The new ‘Get Some Answers’ campaign by Fresh highlights how the low cost of illegal tobacco products makes them so affordable to children that a recent survey found a third of all smokers aged 14 -17 buy illegal tobacco. Recently, 750,000 cigarettes and 500 kilograms of rolling tobacco was unearthed in a run-down Stockton building. Council Trading Standards Officer, Lorraine Wilford, said: “We need to know where these products are being sold. This programme aims to reduce the supply and demand for these products, cutting smoking deaths and clearing the streets of a significant source of crime.” Trading Standards, the UK Border Agency and HM Revenue and Customs are combining forces with Fresh to target the trade more closely. They use shared intelligence and state-of-the-art equipment such as handheld scanners to detect illegal cigarettes.

For the facts about illegal cigarettes visit www.get-some-answers.co.uk If you have information about illegal sellers contact crime stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Zones expanded The success of two ‘no cold calling’ zones has prompted the creation of more no cold calling zones One of the where there street signs for no cold calling is a high zones. proportion of lone or vulnerable residents and where doorstep crime is a problem. Zones can only be introduced where residents are in favour of the scheme. Clearly marking the areas covered is crucial, using “No Cold Calling Zone” signs on walls and lamp posts. These include the Council, Neighbourhood Watch and Police logos. Essential to the free scheme is advice on how to deal with cold callers, to give residents the confidence to say “NO”. In areas which are unsuitable for a No Cold Calling Zone, a Doorstep Crime Watch Zone is an option. Here, residents’ awareness of the problems with doorstep callers is increased but cold calling is allowed to continue. Door stickers are issued so residents can individually say “no cold calling” if they wish.

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Since January 2009 the Council received 35 applications for new zones with 24 now fully operational. More than 1,400 information packs have also been delivered to residents

Stockton News July / August 2010

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The Mark of safer parking Safety

24 hours a day The Council’s Care Call and Telecare Service is taking part in a pilot scheme to test a revolutionary new ‘Buddi’ device (pictured).

Alan Goodman, Senior Civil Enforcement Officer, pictured left, receives the Park Mark Award from Superintendent Darren Best, District Commander of Stockton.

All of Stockton’s Council-run pay and display car parks have earned the Park Mark safer status once again – 17 in Stockton, two free car parks in Yarm and one in Billingham. The Association of Chief Police Officers awards the Park Mark to car parks where surveillance, lighting, signage, cleanliness and

security helps reduce crime and which are properly managed and maintained. The Park Mark award is designed to reduce crime – and the fear of it – in car parks. It is part of the Safer Parking Award Scheme managed by the British Parking Association and supported by the Home Office and police forces across the UK.

Fairfield win the ‘World Cup’ 32 teams of young people aged 13-19 battled it out recently in the Youth Crime Action Plan (YCAP) tournament held at Goals in Teesside for the ultimate prize to go to Wembley to watch England play a European Championships match. The day was packed with fun, competition and sunshine with teams from Cleveland Police (alias Mexico) and Tristar Homes (alias Portugal) who, unfortunately, didn’t get past the quarter finals. The winners (pictured) were ‘Spain’ – a group of young people from Fairfield who cruised through their games. The Plate winners were ‘Brazil’ a team from Stockton Town Football Club. The highlight of the day was when Jonathan Franks of Middlesbrough FC presented the winners with their trophies.

Thanks go to YCAP Hardwick in Partnership Ltd, A WAY OUT, Cleveland Police, Tristar Homes, Goals Teesside, Jonathan Franks and, of course, all those who took part.

‘Buddi’ not only increases safety for people with Alzheimer’s and early stages of dementia, it also encourages independent living to enable them to walk around in safety. Those taking part are referred to the pilot scheme through their social worker. The clever device is a small GPS (Global Positioning System) unit worn on a neck cord, belt or attached to a bunch of keys. It can be tracked anywhere in real time by Stockton Council’s Care Call monitoring centre, or by carers using a secure internet connection, 24 hours a day. If the wearer goes out of that area, the team receive an alert and carers can be contacted. To find out more call about Care Call and Telecare Services call (01642) 634768.

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In Stockton Borough, violence fell by 15 per cent in 2009/10 compared with the year before. Vehicle crime was down by 17 per cent and acts of criminal damage and house burglary both dropped by 21 per cent.

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Community Safety

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 17

POLICE BEAT Inspector Young heads to Gambia Like many people this year, Stockton Inspector Steve Young headed off to Africa. His trip was not for the football though – this was a personal trip with a difference.

unfortunate enough to not receive medical attention in time. “Some people walked 20-30 miles just to try and get the treatment they so urgently needed.”

Stockton Police supported the trip by providing pens that were gratefully received by the local people.

Insp. Young grew up in Gambia, the country where his parents were missionaries on a joint agricultural and medical project, and he felt it was time to revisit the area. During his time growing up in Gambia, Insp. Young largely worked on the medical side of the project, treating babies and young people suffering from malnutrition and delivering health education talks and immunisation programmes. He said: “I saw at first-hand the devastating consequences that illness and malnutrition could bestow on those

Insp. Young said: “Pens might seem like the simplest of things, and here we take something like a biro for granted. However in Gambia a pen means so much more – it is a development tool for them, one which helps them learn literacy and numeracy skills.” In addition to his medical work, Insp. Young helped his father build churches and provide wells and pumps to enable villages and communities to have a constant supply of clean water. He said: “The work my father carried

Hardwick youngsters get their Kikx Budding Beckhams from the Hardwick Estate have enjoyed building relations with police over the past year in an innovative football scheme. The Kikx scheme started in July 2009 and works with vulnerable young people on the estate to build a relationship and help reduce anti-social behaviour. Youngsters were rewarded for their performance in an awards ceremony held at Powerleague on Preston Farm Industrial Estate in April. The winners were awarded a football top and football and all those

out was so important to him and the time I spent in Gambia was lifechanging. My father sadly passed away two years ago and it was in homage to him.”

involved in the scheme received a trophy and certificate. PC Wayne Scott of Stockton Neighbourhood Policing team said: “Kikx runs every Saturday night between 5pm and 7pm and we get a really good turn-out. “The scheme has allowed us to get to know the young people in the area, and it’s helped them understand more about their local Neighbourhood Policing teams.” Success of the scheme has enabled additional funding to allow it to run for several more months.

The trip brought back many memories for Insp. Young. He saw first hand the impact on the community of the charity work he had carried out when he was growing up there with his parents, and later when he returned after finishing his A-levels.

Junior Neighbourhood Watch scheme proves a success A crime and safety initiative, started in 2005 and designed to engage with children in the community, has expanded across the Stockton area. The Junior Neighbourhood Watch Scheme is run as an after-school programme at primary schools across the town. Meetings take place every three weeks and last just over an hour. They bring together crime and safety advice formulated with the emergency services.

Stockton Neighbourhood Police Chief Inspector, Ted Allen, said: “We fully support the Junior Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and enjoy engaging with the young children and teaching them about our role in the community.” The scheme is funded by donations from local business and is always seeking additional support in order to bring the programme to more schools in the area. For more information on the scheme, please contact Sam Gibbons on 07976 303039.

Contact your Neighbourhood Police Officer on (01642) 302930

news Stockton

Children and Young People

Jane puts the icing on the cake

£2.5m improvements for Fairfield Primary Pupils and staff at Fairfield Primary School can look forward to some exciting changes. A £2.5 million extension will include a new nursery, two large reception classrooms and four new classrooms for Years 1 and 2. Funded through the Council’s Primary Capital Programme, it also features a childcare studio, library and reading area, an extended ICT suite and new headteacher’s office.

Actress, writer and cake-maker Jane Asher visited the Borough in June. As President of the National Autistic Society (NAS), she officially opened the £1.7m Walker Building – a new purpose-built facility at Stockton’s Abbey Hill School and Technology College Campus. Abbey Hill is part of Stockton Borough First Federation which also includes Westlands School in Thornaby. The Walker Building is a welcome addition to its provision for young people on the autistic spectrum. Elizabeth Horne, Executive Head Teacher of the Federation, said: “Since 2005 the National Autistic Society has annually recognised this school as a centre of excellence in the education of young people with autism.

“Not only is it a fantastic addition to the Federation’s educational provision, it also benefits the wider community by providing a base for their activities.” Jane Asher said: “One of the most satisfying aspects of my work as President of the NAS is seeing children with autism given the education and support they need. Abbey Hill School has always been a prime example of getting it right. “I’m very honoured to have been asked to open the new Walker Building – I know the pupils there will have the best possible start in achieving their full potential and going on to live fulfilled and happy lives.” The building was funded by Stockton Council, central Government and the school’s own funds.

Getting Motiv8’d! Young people across the area are getting Motiv8ed to make a difference to their community. Motiv8 works with 11-18 year olds on volunteering projects such as creative arts, sports, health and wellbeing. Recently, Motiv8 has worked in deprived communities with groups of young people with an array of different abilities and skills. Projects have included

fundraising for Sport Relief with the E2E class at Stockton Riverside College, holding sports days and football sessions for asylum seekers and planning and filming DVDs on issues such as alcohol and drug abuse and anti-bullying. Run by YMCA Tees Valley, it is funded through The Big Lottery’s Young People’s Fund. For details of Motiv8 call (01642) 676511.

Some youngsters taking part in Motiv8

To minimise any disruption to the school, much of the work is taking place during school holidays. In the first phase, a new playground replaces the existing one, where the new extension is being built. Contractors ISG will then refurbish the existing building, replacing windows and installing modern, efficient mechanical and electrical systems. Finally, a new car park will take the place of the old Infants building. Work should be complete by summer next year.

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 19

Sporty summer More than 6,000 free places on sporty taster sessions are on offer to the Borough’s youngsters through the successful Sporting Start programme. Probably the UK’s largest free holiday programme, it’s part of a drive by NHS Stockton on Tees through Tees Active to increase physical activity amongst children. More than 17 different activities from watersports to karate mean there’s something to keep every child occupied during the holidays. To find out more visit www.teesactive.co.uk or contact Paul Bambrough on (01642) 528773.

Outstanding work!

Twelve childminders from across the Borough have celebrated their outstanding achievements. Ofsted inspectors awarded each an ‘Outstanding’ grade – the highest possible – and the twelve received congratulations at a conference for local childminders organised by the Council. Pictured are some of the outstanding childminders,

SNAPS and SNIPS Families with a child or young person aged up to 25 years with special or additional needs can find help and support from SNAPS – the parent-led Special Needs Activities with Parents Support. There’s a new session for 18-25 year olds at the Mile House pub function room

on the first Wednesday each month (7-9pm), with carers attending.

(left to right) husband and wife team Graeme and Donna Cartmell, Jennifer Johnston, Lyndsay Collins, Janet Drake, Deborah Robson and Andrea Bassett. Clare Dunn, Sharon Amos, Toni Manton and Penny Healley were also graded Outstanding, while for Brenda Sowden it was her second consecutive Outstanding grade. If you need a childminder call Stockton Families Information Services on (01642) 527225.

Imagination Explorer

Special Needs Information and Parents Support (SNIPS) offers a chance for a cuppa, chat and chill with a bit of ‘me’ time! For information on both groups, call Ruth Benson (01642) 530292 or email r.benson4@ntlworld.com

Teenage difficulties Parents experiencing some difficulties with their child can find support from the Council’s Strengthening Families Programme. Focusing on preparing parents and children for the teenage years, many families are already benefiting from this seven-week course. Find out more from Dorothy Nelson on (01642) 524608.

Looking for free play and fun in a friendly, safe environment on your doorstep? Futurity Tees Valley’s Imagination Explorer (pictured) visits a different part of the Borough on late afternoons and early evenings each weekday. Supported by qualified play workers and funded through the Big Lottery, it repeats these venues on the same day for six weeks, before moving to five new locations. To find out more please call Dawn Campbell on (01642) 608919.

news Stockton

Adults Services

Safeguarding adults in Stockton Keeping vulnerable adults safe and making sure any concerns can be easily reported and investigated is a key priority for the Council.

The safeguarding vulnerable adults leaflet is available in other languages or formats such as large print, Braille or audio CD. If you are concerned about a vulnerable adult what should you do? You can talk to member of the adult social care team, the Police, a doctor, nurse, health worker or someone you trust such as your care worker. Many social care services have to register with the social care regulator, the Care Quality Commission, which can also be contacted for advice and information. Details can be found below.

People may be vulnerable because they are frail, have ill health, or have a learning or physical disability. They may be unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation. Harm or abuse can take many forms including physical, emotional, sexual, financial or neglect. Abuse can happen anywhere including at home, in hospital, in residential or nursing homes, day care, social centres or in the community. The Council, working in partnership with a wide range of agencies within the Teeswide Safeguarding Adults Partnership, has recently reviewed their safeguarding procedures to ensure there is a clear path for people (and their carers and advocates) needing help and advice - both for people living independently and for those living in a care home. To make sure they can respond effectively to reported concerns, additional resources have been committed to the Safeguarding team. Increasing awareness of the safety of vulnerable adults is one of the best

Stockton Council’s First Contact Unit – Wrensfield House Telephone (01642) 527764 Minicom (01642) 527769 ways to make sure abuse or neglect is reported and investigated. To make sure people can access good quality information and advice about caring for vulnerable adults, the Council has launched a campaign to spread the word. Posters and leaflets have been distributed widely across the Borough in Council reception areas, libraries, care homes and home care services. You can also find a copy on our website at www.stockton.gov.uk/ safeguarding

Out of hours emergency telephone line

Telephone 08702 402994 Minicom (01642) 602346

Cleveland Police emergency line telephone (01642) 326326 and Minicom (01642) 300381

Care Quality Commission

03000 616 161 www.cqc.org.uk

New information for adult care For adults who need help with aspects of their daily life, good and timely information is crucial and the Council offers a range of information leaflets on all our services for these people. We are always trying to improve this information and the way it is available and have recently revised and updated it to take account of the different ways we now support people. For example, everyone who qualifies for these services now has the opportunity to direct their own support.

A new leaflet ‘Care Services for Adults Explained’ gives detailed information on all aspects of adult care including who qualifies for help, what help is available and where to find it, any costs involved and individuals’ rights and responsibilities. You can find copies, along with all our newly updated information, in main Council reception areas or on our web site at www.stockton.gov.uk/ adultsocialcare We make all our information leaflets available in other languages or formats such as large print, Braille or audio CD.

Stockton

news

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Adults Services

There’s still time to have your say… Residents have been giving us their views at several public meetings on Fair Access to Care Services - and there’s still time to have your say. We want your views, as the way decisions are made about who should receive care services may be changing. A wide ranging consultation began on June 1 to gather views, not only from those receiving adult social services, but from all residents. We would like your views by Friday 27th August.

What happens currently?

• Everyone who applies to receive adult social care services has their individual circumstances considered, using Government guidance about eligibility. • Stockton Council assesses whether the person is able to live safely and independently at home. Their level of need is placed in one of four bands: Low, Moderate, Substantial, or Critical. • In Stockton, we provide social care for people with Moderate, Substantial, or Critical needs. People with Low needs receive information and advice about where to receive support. • A range of social services for adults with assessed needs is provided either direct by the Council, by an independent organisation, or by providing money to the person to help them pay for services they need.

What the changes would mean

• We are thinking about changing the rules so, in the future, people with the greatest needs would receive the most help. This means we would only provide care services to those with Substantial and Critical needs. • Those with needs in the Low and Moderate bands would be directed to other community services - for example, voluntary groups, carer groups, luncheon and friendship groups. • This means we could provide funding to help these community services for Stockton Borough residents. • If you are already receiving help we would look carefully at your situation. We would not withdraw services unless it was safe to do so.

How you can have your say

We sent a survey to all residents currently receiving services. We would also like to receive the views of other residents about the proposed changes and what you would like to see if the change did go ahead (for example, help with shopping, social activities, or help getting to appointments). You can have your say in a number of ways: • For information on the consultation visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/fairaccesstocare • Write to: Fair Access to Care Services Consultation Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Children, Education & Social Care FREEPOST NEA5939 PO BOX 228 Municipal Buildings Church Road STOCKTON-ON-TEES TS18 1XE

• Email: fairaccesstocare@ stockton.gov.uk • Call the consultation helpline: (01642) 524700. Copies of the consultation documents (including the survey) are also available in Municipal Buildings reception, Church Road, Stockton; Kingsway House reception, Billingham; or the Customer Service Centre at Thornaby Central Library.

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Arts, Culture and Leisure

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 27

Fun flows on the River Tees

Stockton’s second Take to the Tees festival promises a week of fun, jam-packed with activities on, in and alongside the River Tees.

See the full programme of events including costs and how to book at www.stockton.gov.uk/events On 27 and 28 August ARC in the Park is back with two nights of fantastic entertainment – Catch 22 Comedy club on the Friday night while Saturday sees leading tribute act Beatlemania. To find out more call (01642) 525199 or visit www.arconline.co.uk

And if that is not enough excitement for one week, Stockton will host the UK’s only River Rat Race event in a national calendar of rat races. Taking place on 29 August, the River Rat Race will take in the water and Tees riverbanks. It will include kayaking, crossing Infinity Bridge, climbing Newport Bridge, swimming across the Tees and possibly walking the plank!

Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Colin Leckonby, centre, and Alastair Brownlee, right, BBC Tees sports presenter and Cleveland Triathlon Club member Jen Milsom, left

The popular Stockton Triathlon returns on 22 August but this year it offers a choice of three distances to suit everyone from complete beginners to top-class triathletes.

Land lovers need not miss out on the fun. Daily activities will keep the family entertained with everything from a teddy bear’s picnic to treasure hunts, football tournaments and dance sessions.

Novices can try the Mini Triathlon – a 260 metre pool swim at Splash, followed by a 13km cycle ride and ending with a 3km run.

So come and try something new to keep fit and active – there’s fit 2 push for parents with babies or toddlers in pushchairs, cheerleading, hula fitness, health walks and cycle rides. Stockton’s annual Summer Show will return with all the usual fun but in a new venue, as it joins the festival and finds a new home along the riverside at the Tees Barrage on 28, 29 and 30 August. Entry is free.

The more serious triathletes can tackle the Standard Triathlon – a 1,500 metre river swim, 40km cycle ride and 10km run along Stockton’s riverside. For information and entry rates, visit www.trihard.co.uk or call 0845 394 3915.

From Sunday 22 August to Sunday 29 August there is something on offer for everyone. The River becomes a hive of activity with taster sessions in everything from canoes to power boats, water skiing and wheelyboats – specially designed boats to accommodate wheelchair users. You can even try walking on water in giant inflated spheres.

A jet skier shows some moves

For those seeking a more demanding challenge, the Sprint Triathlon takes in a 750m swim in the River Tees, a 24km cycle ride on a traffic-free circuit and 5km run.

Water skiers have fun on the River

No experience is necessary and the £35 entry fee includes all equipment, a T-shirt and £10 voucher for the Rat Race Store. Tees Valley residents can get a £6 entry fee discount by quoting ‘stock6’ when entering online. To find out more or register for the River Rat Race visit www. ratraceadventure.com/riverratrace Stockton Council is hosting the event in partnership with Tees Active, British Waterways and NHS Stockton-on-Tees. The River Rat Race is being run by Detail Events Ltd.

news Stockton

Arts, Culture and Leisure

Play the day away

The new landmark £300,000 play area at the picturesque Wynyard Woodland Park is an imaginative addition to an already stunning parkland.

Observatory to the excellent tea rooms in the Visitor Centre, Wynyard Woodland Park is a great day out – come along and see what’s on offer.

With landscaping maturing ready for the summer holidays, the playground equipment encourages children of all abilities to use their imagination and have fun.

By bus: Hourly Arriva bus service 69 links Stockton High Street with Thorpe Thewles village on Mondays– Saturdays, a short walk from the Park – for details see www.connectteesvalley.com/ bus.asp

A Play Village and Pyramid Towers offers varying degrees of difficulty allowing less able children to play alongside others. A glimpse of the pyramid top over the treetops entices visitors to discover what’s ahead.

By bike or foot: National Cycle Route 1 links Hartburn and Harrowgate Lane with the Park, a safe, enjoyable way of get there by cycling or walking.

The trunks of the wooden climbing forest equipment enhances the woodland’s magical feel and sand play helps children develop motor skills and their sense of touch. The new Wynyard Woodland Park play area

With Thorpe Wood nature reserve, the Planetarium and

How to Get There:

Child’s play: A new

outdoor play area at Wolviston Court Community Centre officially opened in June, with play equipment, sand areas and tables, thanks to almost £10,000 from the Big Lottery, £500 from local fundraising and a grant of £1,100 from Stockton Council.

New life for vacant shops Creative exhibitions and events are transforming vacant shops into temporary arts venues, open free to the public. Local artists, community groups, schools and colleges will take over the shops, giving anyone with a creative talent the opportunity to showcase their work in Stockton town centre. Called ‘Meanwhile . . . in Stockton’ the programme includes visual arts, installations, performance, dance, film, photography, fashion, crafts, creative writing, spoken word – something for everyone! Stockton Council secured a grant from the Arts Council’s Empty Spaces programme to part-fund the project.

The first shop opened in June with art installation ‘Let me tell you’ (in Wellington Square) created by recovering drug users to break down stereotypes and raise awareness of addiction. Divided to represent the past, present and future, it took inspiration from the stories of people recovering from substance misuse.

Gilmar Ribeiro stage a two-week exhibition of photography, painting, sculpture and ceramics. And ‘Cabinet of Curiosity’ will be a community project led by a local artist using the Council’s museum collections as inspiration.

Artists in residence Anna Cole, Paula Jackson and Adrian Moule will also create a vibrant exhibition and workshop space in a shop. For details visit www. stockton.gov.uk/events

Different exhibitions will run until October in units 9 (opposite New Look) and 20 (near Debenhams) in Stockton’s Wellington Square. Summer highlights include a performance installation inspired by the town’s heritage, during Stockton’s International Riverside Festival in July. In August, artists Tish Bloom, Michael Kusz, Carolyn Corfield, Vera Hynes and

Some of the heart-felt thoughts and feelings on display in the ‘Let me tell you’ art installation in June. Photo: Reed Ingram Weir

Stockton News July / August 2010

Page 29

Tall Ships countdown BIFF’S world extravaganza Hartlepool takes centre stage when it hosts The Tall Ships Races 2010 next month.

Payment for Park and Ride places on the day will be cash only. Park and Walk cannot be pre-booked and costs £10 per day.

Up to 100 ships will sail there from Kristiansand in Norway on Saturday, 7 August in the second and final race, staying until their grand farewell in an impressive Parade of Sail on Tuesday 10 August.

To find out about all the fantastic activities, how to get there and to pre-book parking online visit www. hartlepooltallships2010.com, call (01429) 523636 or email tallships@hartlepool.gov.uk

Over the four days, a host of family entertainment and activities will include live music, a crew parade, firework displays over three evenings, street theatre, a world village market and much more.

A big attraction at the show is the horticultural tent where locally grown flowers and vegetables will be on display. An under 16s football competition, fairground rides, children’s fancy dress competition, Punch & Judy shows, Petwise Petting Zoo and an Alice in Wonderland event will all keep the children entertained.

To find out more or to book tickets for performances or workshops call (01642) 553220 or visit www. billinghamfestival.co.uk

Uncle BIFF’s popular club comes to town with sessions held on Monday-Friday from 10am-12.30pm. Adults also have the chance to make friends and learn dance moves from experts from around the globe.

Come on down to Thornaby Show

There will be something for everyone to enjoy including Irish dancing, circus entertainers, gymnastics and falconry displays and stalls selling everything from bric-a-brac to handmade jewellery.

An open-air arena in Billingham Town Centre will stage afternoon and evening performances.

The festival concludes on Saturday 14 August with a farewell parade, gala and closing ceremony with a torchlight procession.

Middlesbrough Theatre hosts the international carousel on 7 August, the Russian Cossacks and Mexican Aztecs on 10 August and the grand Gala Concert and Finale, on 12 August.

You can make the most of your visit by booking your park and ride car park place online now at a discounted £7.50 per day (normally £10) and you’ll also receive a £2 voucher off the Official Guide (you’ll receive an email receipt and voucher which you need bring with you on the day).

Thornaby Town Council will hold its Annual Thornaby Show on Sunday, 5 September on the Harold Wilson Field, Bader Avenue.

The Billingham International Folklore Festival – 7-14 August is now in its 46th year with performers from as far afield as Togo, Taiwan, Croatia, Mexico and Russia.

Open from 10am until 4pm the show is a great family day out. To find out more, email townclerk@ thornabytowncouncil. gov.uk or visit www. thornabytowncouncil.gov.uk

It’s carnival time in Billingham Come on down to the 18th Billingham Carnival and Garden Show on 11-12 September at Old Billingham Green. Add traditional events, such as the well-loved horticultural show, to the Teesside strongest man competition, tug of war and dog show, there’s something to tempt all ages. The ‘100 years gone, 100 years on’ project will piece together a snapshot of Billingham’s past, present and future. With a picture of life today and residents’ ideas about what Billingham will be like in 100 years, the images of the past will be turned into a collection which will be put away for a century. Bring your photos to the carnival

to be scanned and added to the collection. For more information tel (01642) 559115 or email billycarnival@hotmail.co.uk

news Stockton

Arts, Culture and Leisure

Delve into the past

LGBT book group

If you’re a fan of historical fiction, then 23 September is your chance to meet author Rebecca Jenkins at Fairfield Library (2pm). Local writer Rebecca will talk about and sign copies of her first novel ‘The Duke’s Agent’ set in Durham in 1811. Returning soldier Raif Jarrett is seeking a quiet life but, when sent to settle affairs after the death of the Duke of Penrith’s steward, he uncovers a network of crime and corruption lurking in a sleepy Durham town. Tickets cost £1 from Fairfield library tel (01642) 524962 or from any Stockton Borough library. With space limited, booking is essential.

Bowlers celebrate 50 years of league Billingham Ladies Bowling Club welcomed the England Bowlers for a celebration match at John Whitehead Park.

Six weeks fun

The president of Bowls England, Mrs Hazel Parnell, is from Stockton and brought the National team to Billingham’s John Whitehead Park for the match against a team consisting of lady bowlers from all of Stockton’s 19 clubs. Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Teesside Ladies’ League this year, President Jean Moutrey, said: “It’s been a long time since there has been a Bowls England Ladies President from this area, everyone from Teesside is thrilled to bits.“

United in voice Two local male voice choirs will come together on Saturday 16 October in a fundraising concert for Stockton Parish Church. Stockton Male Voice Choir (MVC) has invited the Synthonia MVC from Billingham and soprano soloist, Anna-Maria Jackson to join them in the concert. Money raised will help towards the cost of the church’s new heating system. Tickets are £6 and can be obtained from the church or from David at Stockton MVC on (01642) 562081 or Ken at Synthonia MVC on (01642) 613480.

While away a Ropner afternoon The programme of Sunday afternoon concerts in Ropner Park is now well under way. Step back in time to relax in the park, recently restored to its original Victorian style. Stroll around the lake, bring the children to burn off some energy in the adventure playground and sample the

Stockton Central Library has a new monthly group who read a range of books including those with a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender interest. Everyone is welcome and the next meetings are on Fridays 20 August and 17 September, 4-6pm. For details contact Jo Fairless at stocktonlgbt@ googlemail.com the library at claire.pratt@ stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 528044.

home cooking in the cafe, run by the Friends of Ropner Park. What better way for the family to spend a summer Sunday? And, apart from your refreshments, it’s all free. Leaflets in the cafe give the full concert programme, or you can visit the Friends of Ropner Park’s website at www.forp.org.uk

Library goes mobile Stockton’s mobile library joined others from across the UK at a special meet in Dewsbury run by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. Information and ideas were shared and guest speaker The Rt Hon Baroness Betty Boothroyd gave an inspiring speech about the importance of library services to local communities.

Your local library is hosting fun summer holiday events to keep children of every age amused. Children can sign up to the summer reading Space Hop challenge to check out some great books and story CDs. There are craft, story and games sessions, plus special visits from The Dog’s Trust, RSPB and arty fun with cartoonist James Pearson. Details at www.stockton. gov.uk/activity

Battle won! Seven young groups took to the stage for the grand final of a new Battle of the Bands event, organised by Tees Valley Music Service and open to schools across the area. Finalists included Eastern Front (Conyers School, Yarm), War Machine (St Michael’s RC School, Billingham), schools in Hartlepool, Redcar and Middlesbrough and winners The V (Bede Sixth Form College, Billingham). They receive a term’s subscription to Stockton’s Sound Pod Academy, a professionally recorded and mastered CD of the final and a BOSS BR 1600 Studio recorder.

Stockton

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Strong Communities

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Soapbox hailed a success The celebrations to mark 700 years of the town’s markets saw Stockton Council revive the role of the Market Cross as a speaker’s corner. So many people stepped up on the ‘Stockton Soapbox’ for 60 seconds to air their views. It was the perfect way to let us know what you think about the Borough – what you love, what you hate and what could be different.

see different cultures and acts from all over the world.” Ted said: “Woof, woof, woof!”

like this Stockton, my baby was born here and this Saturday I got married in the registry office in Stockton.”

Edna Chapman, a visitor to the markets for many years, said: “I think it’s a wonderful organisation. It brings people in from all over.”

Three cheers went to Ross from Grangefield School who wrapped up the Soapbox with his glowing support for Stockton. He said: “It’s a brilliant place to live – we have the best spirit, I think…. The motivation and spirit here are the best things I can ever think of in the world.”

And whilst this was fun, it had a serious purpose too. We really do care what you think and have made sure all the issues raised – good and bad – have been passed on to the relevant teams in the Council.

Luke Wilson from Bishopsgarth School spoke about his experience as a young person living in the Borough. He praised the “excellent public transport” which helps him get around the area but would like to see more youth clubs to allow young people to “make a positive contribution to our communities and give us skills which will stay with us for life”. One of the stars of the soapbox was Ted the Newfoundland dog, who brought his owner Elizabeth Alderton! “Ted loves coming to the market and brings a smile to Stockton,” she said. Elizabeth also talked up Stockton’s International Riverside Festival and urged everyone to come along – “to

If you missed the soapbox you can watch the footage by visiting www. youtube.com/stocktoncouncil Jose Ekofe shared his moving experience of moving to Stockton as an asylum seeker from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2005. He said: “I

There are many ways to get in touch with us – call (01642) 393939 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk and look out for the soapbox, we might try it again in the future.

news Stockton

Strong Communities

Stockton News July / August 2010

Celebrating our diversity Year 6 pupils from across the Borough came together in a series of workshops to learn about – and celebrate – Stockton’s rich diversity.

Roop Singh shows Polly Alderton from Ingleby Mill Primary School how to wear a Sikh turban

Stockton Council hosted the event at the Oakwood Centre in Eaglescliffe, which was attended by pupils from 35 primary schools. Children sampled workshops dealing with diversity and disability, ranging from Sikh awareness to African drumming, wheelchair basketball to anti-bullying. The sessions gave pupils a taste of the diverse ethnic communities which live here and dispelled negative myths and stereotypes.

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Tegofest comes to Stockton On Saturday 4 September, Stockton’s Parish Gardens will be the venue for this year’s Teesside Gospel Festival organised by Grace Covenant Ministries. With music, poetry and prayer, the day promises to be a lively and runs from 12noon – 6.15pm. To find out more visit www. gracecovenantministries. org.uk

Calling a end to offensive behaviour Stockton Council has re-launched its Offensive Incidents Reporting Scheme so all Stockton residents can easily report any incidents motivated by hate or prejudice. An offensive incident is one in which the victim (or anyone else) believes to be the result of hate or prejudice based on age, gender, race, religion or belief, disability or sexual orientation. This includes any intimidating, upsetting, embarrassing, humiliating or offensive behaviour. If you have been the victim or have witnessed an offensive incident you can: • Ring the reporting line on (01642) 607943 or • Complete an on-line form at www.stockton.gov.uk/ reportincidents

• Contact any Council or Tristar Homes reception point or • Contact Stockton’s Citizens Advice Bureau on (01642) 633877 or • Call the Police on (01642) 326326 or visit any Police Station (remember if it’s an emergency always ring 999 and ask for the Police). For more information about the scheme or a copy of the leaflet, call (01642) 528830 or email diversity@stockton. gov.uk

Stockton Renaissance

all 5pm at Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre 5th October

Central Area

29th July, 2pm, Stockton Business Centre 30th September, 10am, venue to be confirmed

Eastern Area

all meetings to be held at the Five Lamps Organisation 27th July, 9.30am 21st September, 5.30pm

Western Area

all meetings at 6pm 26th July 27th September

Northern Area Board

6th September, 5:45pm Venue TBC Contact Sarah Upex on (01642) 526498 www.stockton.gov.uk/renaissance

news Stockton

Strong Communities

Mission accomplished Two intrepid kayakers have completed a 125 mile canoe marathon to raise money for a North East charity. Castlegate Watersports Centre instructor Chris Walker and Newcastle PhD student Alasdair Wood took on the Devizes to Westminster canoe race to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

The hardship was worth it as they have so far raised £1,200 towards research. To support the pair’s fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy visit www. justgiving.com/125miles

The duo completed the gruelling course in 21 hours 20 minutes, finishing 23rd out of 150 teams. More than 50 teams dropped out through sheer exhaustion.

of pocket. You don’t need to have served in the armed forces. As well as caseworkers who work with clients, it needs people with administrative, financial, fundraising skills, or simply a willingness to help. Based in Stockton, Middlesbrough and Redcar, SSAFA prides itself on being a cheerful and friendly group of volunteers who enjoy a relaxed and informal working atmosphere. To find out more call Alan Crosskill on (01642) 701202.

Love thy neighbour Common disputes between neighbours involve noise, behaviour, animals, bullying and parking.

100 up as Catalyst grows

The Ropner Trust joins Catalyst alongside a wide range of charities and community groups across the Borough. Founded almost a decade ago, the trust provides financial support to under 25s. It aims to boost education, health and employment prospects and also funds sport and recreation opportunities – from helping sports clubs buy equipment to helping individuals buy a musical instrument or football boots.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help was formed in 1885. The charity gives assistance to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families in need, with the Cleveland Branch helping 500 people each year. The charity always needs volunteers who have time to spare each week. Although everyone is unpaid, it provides training and expenses so no one is out

Chris said: “Throughout the race Alasdair and myself went through emotions ranging from total despondency through exhaustion, cold and dark at 3am, to exhilaration and relief when the Houses of Parliament came into sight.”

A charitable trust which supports young people has become the hundredth member of Catalyst – an organisation which campaigns for and supports Stockton’s charities.

Time to help?

Allison Agius, Catalyst’s Executive Director, said: “We’re delighted that third sector organisations of all shapes and sizes – from those delivering specialist services through to neighbourhood and community associations – are coming together to help make the sector stronger, and help us deliver even more for local people.” Membership of Catalyst is free to all charitable (or ‘third sector’) organisations operating in Stockton. Benefits include a weekly email bulletin showing funding opportunities, news, seminars, networking events and exclusive moneysaving schemes including specialist insurance policies. For more information visit www.catalyststockton.org or call (01642) 733908.

To find out more about UNITE call (01642) 311633.

To encourage tenants to reach mutual agreements to resolve their differences, Tristar Homes is working with the free, confidential mediation service UNITE. Over the past year they have achieved positive outcomes in three out of every four cases where tenants have met to discuss issues. Paul Noddings, Housing Operations Manager at Tristar, said: “Many neighbour disputes can be resolved by both parties simply talking to each other. For some of the complaints we receive, one party is often unaware they are causing a problem.”

Left to right Craig Marsden, Tristar Patch Manager, Paul Noddings Tristar Housing Operations Manager, Noelle Darwent UNITE Manager and Mediator and, Denise Johnson Tristar Patch Manager.

Kick start your social life Tees Valley IVC is a sports and social activities club for professionals and like-minded people which organises monthly sports such as five-a-side, badminton, surfing and social events and raises funds for its 2010 charity, the Great North Air Ambulance. New to the area, want to meet new people or try a new activity? Call 0844 587 0090 or visit www.teesvalleyivc.org

Stockton News July / August 2010

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New look for BlindVoice Local charity BlindVoice UK is celebrating a £9,845 grant from the Big Lottery’s ‘Awards for All’ to give its offices in Yarm Road a facelift. Manager Christine Durnion, said: ”In 2004 we only had one small office and, as other charities vacated an office on our floor, we were able to cover the rent and expanded very quickly. The whole office needs decorating and all IT equipment will be updated. We’ve also been lucky to receive £3,000 for office furniture to complete the new look.”

Riders who took part last year

Get on your bike for Butterwick: The 7th Big Butterwick Bike ride is asking cyclists to pedal in some £s towards patient care. This year’s ride, on Sunday 26 September, is about 26 miles around the local area. Last year 110 cyclists raised more than £9,300, so get on your bike and help Butterwick Hospice Care – it’s just £5 to register. For details call Diane on (01642) 628930 or email dianewilliamson@butterwick.org.uk

Tor more information about BlindVoice and the support it offers, call (01642) 803590 or email christine.durnion@ blindvoice.co.uk

Deadline looms Local sports people have until 31 July to submit nominations for the 2010 Stockton Club and Coach Awards. The awards recognise the achievements of local clubs, coaches and volunteers who work tirelessly for the benefit of their organisation and the wider community.

Trinity today One of Stockton’s most famous landmarks unlocked its doors to the public for a special open day. The local community were able to step back in time to learn about the rich history of the site and building. The open day was so popular that organisers,

Neighbourhood Management Pathfinder Parkfield and Mill Lane, hope to run more events in the future. Built in 1838, Holy Trinity Church stands proudly on Trinity Green on Yarm Lane. The church was used for worship until the early 1980s when it fell into disrepair and became redundant before losing its roof and internal features in a serious fire in 1991. In 2007 English Heritage and Stockton Council secured £550,000 funding to carry out refurbishments to make the building safe.

Categories include Coach of the Year, Sporting Club of the Year, Achievement Award, Contribution to Sport or Physical Activity Award, Junior and Senior Team of the Year, Volunteer of the year, Young Volunteer of the Year and Contribution to Disability Sport Award. Send your nominations to Stockton Council’s Leisure and Sports Development Team at jonathan.hart@ stockton.gov.uk or call (01642) 524964.

news Stockton

Health and Wellbeing

The great outdoors Exercising outdoors is a great way to improve your health and well-being. If you are aged over 50 why not take this opportunity to take part in some fun physical activities, meet new people and learn new skills? Stockton Council has joined forces with NHS Stockton on Tees to work with various organisations to develop a range of opportunities to offer the over 50s. Simply telephone the numbers below for more information.

Gardening:

Over 50’s Football:

Running for Beginners:

Bowling for Beginners:

Rowing for Beginners:

Thornaby Village Bowling Club: Keith Gillings (01642) 766391

Nordic Walking:

Thornaby Bowls Club: Brian Lewis (01642) 591894

Grangefield gardening project, contact Graham Barker (01642) 670731 Caterpillar group for novices – have a go at running at a slow caterpillar pace. Contact Richard Scott 07745 985 062 John Green (01642) 791728 Health Performance 07912 892 070

Silver Cyclists:

Paul Morrison Sustrans (01642) 803441

Fab, Fit and 50 – Adventure activity away days:

Five Lamps Association, Malcolm Diegan (01642) 628195

Norton and Stockton Ancients Football, Ray Morton (01642) 886718

Ropner Park Bowling Association: Ron Williams (01642) 583245

Norton Bowling Club: Jack Mee (01642) 550291

Boules, Carpet bowling, Ten Pin bowling: Tilery Residents Association, David White 07961 828 477

Stockton News July / August 2010

Change your life in 12 weeks

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Thai Massage removes tension A new way of reducing stress and improving well-being is coming to the Tees Valley from September, when the Council’s Tees Achieve will offer Thai Yoga massage courses. Thai Yoga massage uses acupressure, Hatha yoga postures and stretching techniques to release tension and increase vital energy. Recipients take a more passive role than in Hatha Yoga, relaxing even deeper into stretches to release deep-seated stress and feel totally refreshed, energised and relaxed.

On prescription – a water-based class.

You could benefit from a 12-week health programme simply through being referred by your doctor or other health professional. If you have a physical or psychological health condition which could be greatly improved through taking part in physical activity, the exercise referral programme could be just what you need. The first thing to do is to discuss your condition and any medications you are taking with a medical professional – a doctor, nurse, phyisiotherapist or health trainer. If he or she feels you’ll benefit from it, you’ll be referred onto the programme.

Next, you book an initial 30 minute, one-toone consultation to discuss what activities would suit you best. These could range from a gym programme, studio and water-based exercise classes, pilates and Tai Chi classes, health walks and classes to help with posture and stability. Venues include Northfield Sportsdrome, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre, Billingham Belasis centre, Splash in Stockton and Thornaby Pavilion. Costs are very reasonable. Initial and end consultations and activity sessions each cost £1.90, with £5.50 for gym inductions. To find out more call (01642) 526274.

Leaders in sport Eighteen adults with disabilities have achieved a nationally recognised award in Sports Leadership. The Level 1 course enables them to help deliver sport and recreational activities. Fun and practical lessons developed leadership skills, responsibility, confidence and self-esteem.

experiences and most are progressing onto the Level 2 Sports Leaders course. The participants will receive their certificates at the annual Stockton Club and Coach Awards in September.

Organised by Stockton Council’s Leisure and Sports Development team, participants enjoyed their

To find out more about sports leadership courses for adults and young people with disabilities, call (01642) 528510 or email natalie. smith@stockton.gov.uk

Julian Kemp (pictured), the area’s only advanced practitioner, will run the courses after visiting Chiang Mai in Thailand for six weeks of intense study under a world class Master, Chongkol Setthakorn, who derived the technique from a 2,500 yearold tradition. To find out more email cosmokemp2@hotmail. co.uk or call Tees Achieve on (01642) 527904 or visit www. stockton.gov.uk

news Stockton

Your Council

Take part in the consultation If you’re a registered elector in the Borough, you should by now have received some information on how the Council could be run in the future, along with a consultation slip asking which system you would prefer. Voters currently elect between one and three local Councillors to Stockton Borough Council every four years. There are 56 Councillors in total who, in turn, elect a Leader and Cabinet. The consultation follows a change in the law and means we must change the current system to one of two options.

E L P AM

The two future options are for a Council Leader and Cabinet or a directly elected Mayor and Cabinet and the information with your consultation slip explains the differences between each. We would like as many people as possible to give their views so, if you haven’t already, please do return your consultation slip in the post-paid envelope to say which system you would prefer. Consultation closes on 29 July. The Council will then evaluate the responses to help it make the decision on how the council will be run in the future. The Cabinet and Council expect to reach this during September.

E L MP

You can find more information at www.stockton. gov.uk/views

Look at it…don’t lose it!

Making sense of the census

Stockton Council is urging residents to make sure they don’t throw away their right to vote – and help save money at the same time.

Every decade there is a census and the next one is due in 2011.

Each year, the Council carries out a canvass to update the Electoral (Voter) Register. The information is used to publish a new register on 1 December 2010. In August, every household in the Borough will receive an envelope with the message “Look at it, don’t lose it”. It contains a canvass form with details of who is currently registered to vote at that address. You’ll need to look at this information to check and confirm it is correct, or amend it as necessary. It’s quick and easy to confirm there are no changes – the form will have details of a freephone service, the internet, how to send a text (standard network charges

apply), or you can sign the form and return it in a pre-paid envelope. If possible, please use the internet, freephone or texting service, which will reduce the costs of processing the information. However, these methods can’t be used if there are changes to the information on the form. You must clearly mark changes on the form, then sign and return it in the pre-paid envelope. You are legally required to provide the information. If you don’t respond to the canvass, or give false information, you may be liable to a fine of £1,000. Most importantly, you won’t be able to vote if you are not on the Electoral Register. If you have any questions, or to find out more, call our helpline on (01642) 526196.

Data will be collected from across England and Wales on Sunday, 27 March 2011 when the Office for National Statistics will ask questions of everyone to gain a snapshot of the population. Pre-addressed questionnaires will be posted out to most households using a specially developed list of addresses, or householders can submit their answers to census questions online or by post. New web services are being created for the online questionnaire with help and guidance on how to fill it in.

Stockton News July / August 2010

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The mark of excellence Stockton Council is celebrating an outstanding achievement in being one of just six councils, nationally, to be awarded the Government’s Customer Service Excellence Standard across all of its services. The Standard was created by central Government as a tool, with guidelines and benchmarks, to allow public services to bring about changes, within their organisations, to ensure they are totally customer focused.

this award. As a Council, we continually strive to provide efficient, effective and excellent customer services. We aim to ensure these standards are always at the heart of everything we do.” Other councils who received the Customer Service Excellence Standard are Down District Council, Fenland District Council, Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough.

Some of the assessment criteria for the standard include the way the Council uses customer insight, the support for customer-focused approaches throughout the organisation, how the Council communicates with customers and the timeliness, delivery and quality of services. Stockton Council was rigorously assessed between September 2009 and June 2010 before it secured the standard at corporate level. Debbie Hurwood, Head of Customer Services and Taxation, for Stockton Council, said: “We are delighted to have attained

Members of the Council’s Care For Your Area Team

Facing the challenge There is no doubt that the Council faces an unprecedented challenge as it works to tackle the public sector spending cuts and meet increasing demand for services. Like every council across the country, demand for services is increasing. This is a result of the rising age of the population, increased demand for benefits, housing and business support advice linked to the recession and greater demands on safeguarding services for children and adults. Here in Stockton, we take a planned approach to tackling this challenge. Council staff and elected councillors are carrying out a great deal of detailed work as part of a ‘root-andbranch’ review of everything the Council does. This three-year Value for Money Programme includes no less than 36 reviews covering hundreds of services

– literally everything the Council does. Through these, we have already identified savings estimated at £12m by 2013 and this process will continue. We have already reduced our costs by several millions by means such as working in partnership with others (we already share many administrative services such as IT with Darlington Council), reviewing travel allowances for Council staff and by more effective purchasing and procurement. Two really important principles lie at the heart of all this work. We will always strive to achieve the

best value for money and we will not compromise on delivering excellent customer service. Chief Executive Neil Schneider said: “It is no coincidence that we are currently one of just two councils in England to hold the joint honour of achieving both the top ‘excellent’ rating for the way we use our resources and the government standard in Customer Service Excellence. “We will never seek awards for their own sake but, where we see real value in them and think they can help us achieve real improvements, then we are proud to be recognised.”

We will always strive to achieve the best value for money and we will not compromise on delivering excellent customer service

Northern

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WARD SURGERIES 1st August 2010 – 30th September 2010

http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/

BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM

www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamcentralward No August surgery 1 Sept 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 No August surgery 24 Sept New Life Family Centre 5:00pm – 5:45pm Synthonia Scout Group Hall 5:50pm – 6:30pm COUNCILLORS ALEX CUNNINGHAM Tel: 01642 551251 Email: alex.cunningham@stockton.gov.uk MICK STOKER Tel: 01642 371641 Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.uk

Taking good care

BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM – 7:30PM

www.stockton.gov.uk/ billinghamnorthward No August surgery 13 Sept High Grange Community Centre COUNCILLORS HILARY AGGIO Tel: 01642 565016 Email: hilary.aggio@stockton.gov.uk 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 12 Aug Billingham Branch Library 9 Sept 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 27 Aug Wolviston Court Community Centre 24 Sept 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 5 Aug Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles 2 Sept Wolviston Common Room COUNCILLOR JOHN GARDNER Tel: 01740 645357 Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk

Top honour for Billingham teacher A Billingham Biology teacher has received an MBE from the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace. Dr Richard Spencer, from SRC Bede Sixth Form, received the honour for his services to science. Richard’s innovative and enthusiastic approach to Biology teaching has already earned him a string

of regional, national and international awards. “Prince Charles was down-toearth and seemed genuinely interested in my passion for teaching using song and dance,” he said. “It was a humbling experience to stand alongside other recipients from all over the country and to learn about their dedication to public life.”

Community Caretakers at work at the Clarences.

Local people are getting back to work thanks to support from local charity, not for profit company Know How North East and Stockton Council. After securing Government funding, they are supporting local businesses by promoting opportunities for education, training and employment for local people wanting support. 21 Community Caretakers started work around four months ago on projects to address issues such as fly tipping, vandalism and anti-social behaviour. Know How North East and the Council have matched the Government funding to extend the six-month placements to one-year jobs.

Richard with wife Elaine and children Anna, Sophie and Thomas.

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WARD SURGERIES 1st August 2010 – 30th September 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 6 Aug All Saints C of E Secondary School 1 Sept 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

Beginners bowled over A beginners’ indoor bowling course has quickly developed into a thriving competitive league. The course started at Thornaby Pavilion in October as part of an NHS Stocktonon-Tees sporting re-start programme, encouraging adults to take part in more physical activity by sampling various sporting activities. Coached by Brian Hannaford, 20 novices regularly attended the sessions. By the end of the 10-week course, they

were so enthusiastic they started a novice league with eight teams competing over 14 weeks. Brian said: “The beginners’ course was a great success and the standard of play is a testament to the participants’ improved skill levels. Many of them will now join outdoor summer leagues, returning indoors for the winter.”

INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM

(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East) www.stockton.gov.uk/ inglebybarwickwestward 6 Aug All Saints C of E Secondary School 1st September 2010 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 No August surgery 25 Sept Rochester Court Sheltered Housing 11:00am – 12:00 noon COUNCILLORS TINA LARGE Tel: 01642 671903 Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.uk MRS ALLISON TRAINER Tel: n/a Email: n/a STEVE WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176

STAINSBY HILL 6:00PM – 7:00PM

www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward No August surgery 16 Sept South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 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 2 Aug Thornaby Pavilion 6 Sept Thornaby Pavilion COUNCILLORS IAN DALGARNO Tel: 01642 882985 MICK EDDY Tel: 01642 765919

Tweet on the beat

To find out more about Indoor Bowls call Thornaby Pavilion on (01642) 760971 or visit www.teesactive.co.uk

Police officers have joined the social network site Twitter and will be tweeting as they patrol the streets. The Neighbourhood Police team at Ingleby Barwick launched its own feed on the very popular ‘Twitter’ site which allowed users to give brief and regular updates to other users of the site.

Police Community Support Officer Jonathan Wardle, 25, said the aim is to improve communication with residents: “We were looking at avenues to connect with members of the public to pass on the crime prevention message. There are millions of people using sites such as Facebook and Twitter.” To follow the Ingleby Barwick Neighbourhood Policing Team visit twitter.comIBNPT

Central

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WARD SURGERIES 1st August 2010 – 30th September 2010

http://www.stockton.gov.uk/yourcouncil/egenda/your_councillors/councillors_ward_surgeries/

BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON) www.stockton.gov.uk/ bishopsgarthelmtreeward 10 Aug Elm Tree Community Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm 6 Sept Bishopsgarth School 6:00pm – 6:30pm 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 www.stockton.gov.uk/fairfieldward No August surgery 13 Sept Fairfield Library COUNCILLORS MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914 BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409

Benchmark in Forest Park

NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonnorthward No August surgery 1 Sept Norton Library 15 Sept Frederick Nattrass School 29 Sept 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 No August surgery 10 Sept Lustrum Community House 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 GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward 2 Aug Fairfield Library 6 Sept 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

www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward No August surgery 7 Sept 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 HARDWICK WARD 6:00PM – 7:00PM www.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward 13 Aug Hardwick Community Centre 27 Aug Hardwick Community Centre 10 Sept Hardwick Community Centre 24 Sept Hardwick Community Centre COUNCILLORS MRS LIZ NESBITT Tel: 01642 601731 BILL NOBLE Tel: 01642 671609

www.stockton.gov.uk/ parkfieldoxbridgeward No August surgery 2 Sept Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only) Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rix only) 16 Sept Oxbridge Christian Fellowship COUNCILLORS MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420 ROY RIX Tel: 01642 674861 Email: roy.rix@stockton.gov.uk

HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:30PM

Pictured: back row Judith Turner (Stillington Parish Council), Graham Payne (Darchem Managing Director), Jonathon “Crusher Milburn” Linsley, Derek Smith (Darchem); centre local residents Frank Hodgson and Ron Cowley; front row Darchem apprentices Paul Harrison, Michael Curnow and Sam Johnson.

When you’re next out for a stroll or a picnic in Stillington Forest Park, you may see some brand new benches. Apprentices at local firm Darchem Engineering (Esterline) made and donated six benches to the Stillington Parish Council as part of their support to community projects and, in a team effort, Stockton Council installed them. Jonathan Linsley – Last of the Summer Wine’s Crusher Milburn – who has friends in Stillington – met Stillington’s answer to Foggy and Clegg when he was introduced to local residents Ron Cowley and Frank Hodgson at the Forest Park. Impressed with the benches, Jonathan said: “The workmanship is excellent and the generosity of the company in donating these seats to Stillington for the park is fantastic. The apprentices and Darchem should be very proud.”

www.stockton.gov.uk/hartburnward No August surgery 6 Sept 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 6 Aug Newtown Community Resource Centre 20 Aug Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre 3 Sept Newtown Community Resource Centre 17 Sept Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre COUNCILLORS PAUL BAKER Tel: 01642 608406 Email: paul.baker@stockton.gov.uk BOB GIBSON OBE Tel: 01642 614482 Email: robert.gibson@stockton.gov.uk

ROSEWORTH 5:15PM – 6:15PM www.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward No August surgery 13 Sept Kiora Hall Youth & Community Centre 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 No August surgeries 2 Sept The Willows Centre 9 Sept Parkfield Community Centre 16 Sept Victoria Community Centre 23 Sept 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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WARD SURGERIES 1st August 2010 – 30th September 2010

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EAGLESCLIFFE

www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward 6 Aug Trinity Methodist Church 6:30 – 7:30pm 17 Aug Egglescliffe Parish Hall 6:00 – 7:00pm 3 Sept Trinity Methodist Church 6:30 – 7:30pm 14 Sep 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

WESTERN PARISHES

www.stockton.gov.uk/ westernparishesward No August surgery 16 Sept Elton Hall Nursing Home, Elton COUNCILLOR FRED SALT Tel: 01740 630771

YARM 6:00PM – 6:45PM

www.stockton.gov.uk/yarmward 3 Aug Yarm Library 7 Sept Challoner House 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

Trekking for charity National accolade for Yarm florist Congratulations to Yarm florist Diana Kaye on winning the UK Retail Florist of the Year Award. Diana won the most hotly contested of the 16 categories in the 2010 Re:Fresh Awards.

Another string to our bow Ever wondered how the complex shapes of the violin are formed? Now you can see for yourself after Sean Galvin and Chris Manship (pictured) set up shop in Preston Hall Museum’s Victorian Street. The cousins are the street’s newest addition, making new violins, cellos and violas at the Manship and Galvin workshop, where they also restore instruments and repair bows. Both have played the violin since childhood, so it seemed a natural step after they completed a four-year course

to learn the art of creating traditional handmade violins. They join an increasing number of traditional craftspeople in the Victorian Street, including blacksmiths, tinsmiths and toymakers. Museum Service Manager Jane Hubbard said: “They add to our attractions for visitors and provide independent traders with an outlet for their fascinating and intricate work.” To find out more about the crafts in the Victorian Street, call Preston Hall Museum and Park on (01642) 527375. The Museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10am-4.30pm.

Kevin Baker, the deputy governor of Kirklevington Grange Prison, Yarm, pictured,is trekking the Himalayas for the Help for Heroes charity.

2,800m into the Annapurna Range, home to some of the world’s highest peaks. To sponsor Kevin log on to www.justgiving.com/kevinbaker1 or to offer corporate sponsorship call Kevin at work on (01642) 792600.

The 49-year-old, will begin his sponsored expedition on November 4. Hiking for up to 11 hours a day he wants to raise £4,500 and inmates at the prison have already started the ball rolling by holding a charity concert there, contributed £343.50 of their own cash to the charity after rock band ‘Wot the Rock’ performed. The trek will see Kevin climb

Designer in the making Budding interior designer Caitlin Dearlove (pictured) won £250 for her school in a competition arranged by local fitted wardrobe specialists, Sliderobes. The Year Five Egglescliffe Primary pupil wowed the judges with her stylish bedroom design, which included red and white panelled wardrobe doors with black scrolled effects. Stockton Sliderobes manager Gary Shaw said: “From the dozens of high quality

entries, we chose Caitlin’s. Her design was simple, stylish and showed real flair.”

s ’ t a h W O

r Regula Events

A look at what’s going on around the Borough during

Two o’clock Rhymetime

Norton Library. Every Wednesday 2pm Stories, rhymes and activities for the under 5s Tel 528019.

Saturday storytime 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.

Norton Library. Every Saturday 2.15pm Stories for the under 5s Tel 528019.

Scrabble group

Norton Library every Wednesday 1pm Tel 528019.

Thornaby gaming group

Thornaby Library, every Friday, 3–5pm, challenge your friends on the PS3 and Wii, booking advised. Tel 528150.

Children’s craft session

Thornaby Library, every Thursday during the summer holidays from 2pm, booking advised. Tel 528150.

28 July – 1 August Stockton International Riverside Festival

Street theatre, circus, dance, music and pyrotechnics from world class artists and performers. See centre pages. www.sirf.co.uk

29 July – 1 Aug Stockton Riverside Fringe Festival

Live music and comedy on the banks of the River Tees. See centre pages. www.fringefestival.co.uk

31 July Stockton Farmers’ Market

Wellington Square, 9am-2pm Come along to try and buy fresh tasty produce. www.neefm.org.uk

Augus

Games, Games, Games

Thornaby Libray, every Monday during the summer holidays, 2-4pm, booking advised. Tel 528150.

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.

July Happy days

Come on down to Parish Gardens in Stockton where there’s a series of community free fun days being held by ‘Hope in Stockton’. There’s something for all the family including large games, crafts and face painting, bouncy castle and toddler area for the little ones. The days start at 11am to 3pm and begin on Sat 17 July, Wed 11 August, Sat 21 August, and Sat 25 Sept. Rain will never stop play as activities will take place in Stockton Parish church.

24-25 July Traditional Wood Turning Demonstrations Colouring Clubs

Roseworth Library Every day except Wednesday 3pm – 6pm Tel 528098 Billingham Library Every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am Materials provided. Tel 527895.

Wednesday talks

Norton Library. Every first Wednesday of the month – 3pm. Guest speaker and Refreshments. Free. Tel 528019.

Preston Hall Museum & Park Enjoy watching this traditional craftsman at work in the Museum’s Victorian Street. Demonstrations throughout the day, free with normal admission. Call 527375.

27 July Time Bandits and traditional quilting demonstrations

Preston Hall Museum & Park Come and enjoy the excitement as our Armoury collection comes to life with re-enactors or watch traditional crafts in the Museum and even have a go at some! Free with normal admission. Call 527375.

3 and 5 August Boat Race!

Preston Hall Museum & Park Come and celebrate our region’s shipbuilding heritage by making your very own boat from organic materials. 10.30am–12.30pm or 1.30–3.30pm, free with normal admission, drop-in, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 527375.

4 August Conserving old buildings in Stockton Borough

Norton Library, 3pm Elizabeth Marsh from Stockton Heritage in Partnership gives an illustrated talk.

7 – 14 August 46th Billingham International Folklore Festival

Come along to see groups from across the world perform. See page 29. For information about the festival’s programme and how to purchase tickets visit www.billinghamfestival. co.uk or call 553220.

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Stockton News July / August 2010

July, August and September 6 August Family Friday: Porthole Pictures

Preston Hall Museum & Park Join in a nautical arts and crafts workshop. 10.30am– 12.30pm or 1.30– 3.30pm, free with normal admission, drop-in, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tel: 527375.

7-10 August Tall Ships Races

Hartlepool Marina The town will welcome a magnificent fleet of around 100 tall ships as the finishing point for the Sail Training International race. See page 29. To be part of the event visit www.hartlepooltallships2010.com or call (01429) 523636.

21 August Rain or Shine Theatre Company presents Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of being Earnest’

Preston Hall Museum & Park (Bandstand Garden) Outdoor event, please bring own seating and picnic, well-behaved dogs are welcome. Grounds open 5.30pm, performance starts 7.00pm, tickets on sale at the Museum and Park’s shop or at Stockton Tourist Information Centre, £10, £8, £6 (group discounts available) or online at: www.ticketweb.co.uk Call 527375 or 528130.

22-29 August Take to the Tees Festival

Including River Rat Race, Stockton Triathlon, Stockton’s Summer Show, land and water based taster sessions, cycle ride and much more. See page 27. Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events for more details or www.ratraceadventure.com/RiverRatRace to enter rat race

ber

Septem

1 September Bombs and Barrage Balloons

Norton Library, 3pm Sally Scunthorpe from the British Steel Archive Project gives an illustrated talk about the steel industry during the war. See the exhibition about the Archive Project in the library throughout September.

4 September Tegofest: Teesside Gospel Festival Parish Gardens, Stockton, 12noon–6.05pm www.gracecovenantministries.org.uk

5 September Thornaby Show

Harold Wilson Field, Bader Avenue 10-4pm Come along to see centre circle entertainers including circus act, gymnastics, falconry and dog displays as well as a host of stalls and the horticultural tent. Children’s fancy dress, Punch and Judy, under 16s football competition and petting zoo. See page 29. www.thornabytowncouncil.gov.uk

8 August Teddy Bear’s Picnic Family Day!

Preston Hall Museum & Park Bring your teddy and a picnic and enjoy the fun. Lots of activities to entertain the whole family. Some charges may apply. 11am – 4pm. Call 527375.

12 August Puppy Love with the Dog’s Trust Norton Library, 2.30-3.30pm Learn how to take care of your four-legged friend and make some canine crafts, booking essential. Tel 528019. Children under eight need to be accompanied by an adult.

15 August Yorkshire Fairs Arts and Craft Fairs Preston Hall Museum & Park Free with normal admission. Call 527375.

20 August Family Friday: Pinch Pots

Preston Hall Museum & Park, 10.30am-12.30pm or 1.30pm-3.30pm Using air-drying clay and using a traditional technique children can create a simple pinch pot to take home. If you’d like to paint it too, please bring something to carry it home in as it might be a bit messy! Free with normal admission, drop-in, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 527375 for details

26 August The Normans are coming

Norton Library, 2.30-3.30pm Make a Norman castle and armour, booking essential. Tel 528019. Children under eight need to be accompanied by an adult.

27 August Family Friday: Jewellery Boxes

Preston Hall Museum & Park, 10.30am-12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm Make and decorate small boxes to keep your treasurers safe, all materials provided but feel free to bring along decorations with you. Free with normal admission, drop-in, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 527375.

29 August Family tennis course

Ropner Park, 10-11am, 11– 12noon Stockton Council’s Leisure & Sports Development Team offer a six week course running up until 3 October, £12 per adult, children play for free. Suitable for children over eight but younger children who already have basic tennis skills are also welcome. All equipment is provided, to book a place call 524964

8 September Reading group dedicated to works of Shakespeare Winter Gardens, Preston Hall, 2.15pm Come along to join the group which starts on September 8 and hopes to meet regularly. Bring a copy of Antony and Cleopatra. For more details contact james.longwill@btinternet.com

11 – 12 September The 18th Billingham Carnival and Garden Show

Old Billingham Green Come along for fairground rides, free senior citizens café, kiddies and youth corner, tug of war, charity and craft stalls, Billingham Horticultural Society Show, Teesside’s Strongest Man Competition, dog show and much more. Call 559115. See page 29.