ABC Magazine: Whitley Bay Edition - November/December 2020

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WHITLEY BAY EDITION | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020

PUZZLES INSIDE

What's On ...Maybe The Snowman & Snowdog fly in to the area Alternative Festive Films How the Robin came to symbolise Christmas WHI T L E Y BAY

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HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM ABC MAGAZINES

Bay Podiatry

Welcome to the Whitley Bay edition of ABC, your bi-monthly local magazine. ABC is distributed free of charge to thousands of homes in Whitley Bay, Whitley Lodge and Monkseaton. It’s also available in Cafés, Dentists, Hairdressers and Community Centres, or you can view it online via www.yourabc.co.uk

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C H R I ST M A S E V E N TS

WHAT’S ON...Maybe With another lockdown in place, there is understandably a high demand for any form of festive cheer as we all try to end the year with a little bit of fun and escapism.

The Christmas season has understandably been decimated due to the virus, and tickets for the few Christmas events still going ahead have been snapped up in double quick time, with the likes of Fenwicks and The Alnwick Garden events programmes selling out as soon as they go on sale. With a limited capacity for hosting events and important social distancing measures and restrictions in place, things are a little more difficult to book this year.

As venues do their best to provide some form of festive entertainment this year, families looking for a Christmas event to enjoy with the children can still find Christmas shows and events. Booking early is a must this year, and we apologise if these events have already sold out, it’s very hard to keep up with events this year!

On these pages we have six Christmas experiences and events in Newcastle and Gateshead that, at time of going to print, you can still book tickets for, including two fabulous light trails, a Christmas film must-see and (hopefully) some hot tickets to enjoy a bite to eat with Santa himself.

Please note

All details are correct at time of going to print. With recent lockdown restrictions, and the possibility of further changes, please check individual event websites for up to date information

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IGNITE AT GIBSIDE NATIONAL TRUST, GATESHEAD 11 - 30 December Ignite at Gibside National Trust is new for 2020. The eighteenthcentury Georgian splendour of the gardens at the Gibside form the perfect setting for this new, afterdark experience. Enjoy a magical winter evening following a sparkling illuminated trail lit by lanterns, flickering flames and majestic sculptures as it winds through the eighteenth–century gardens in Gateshead. Families with children of all ages will be enchanted by the joy of illuminations. This is the perfect outdoor event for friends wishing to meet up safely within the rule of six too. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside/ features/ignite-at-gibsideCHRISTMAS LIGHT TRAIL AT THE ALNWICK GARDEN 8 - 31 December (excluding 25 December) The Alnwick Garden are gearing up for a glitzy Christmas! When tickets went on sale for their meet Father Christmas events they were snapped up almost instantaneously. but there are still other ways to experience a magical Christmas at the popular outdoor attraction! See the Garden

come to life like you have never seen it before with fantastic sound and light at this after dark spectacular!

Fun for all the family and filling your hearts with festive spirit.

For tickets visit www.alnwickgarden. com/christmas-2020-at-the-alnwickgarden SOCIALLY DISTANCED PANTO AT THEATRE ROYAL NEWCASTLE Saturday 19 December 2020 Sunday 10 January 2021 After a really tough year for Theatre Royal Newcastle, including the postponement of their scheduled fabulous Christmas panto, they have managed to bring a glimmer of festive sparkle to end 2020.

The Newcastle city centre theatre have announced that they will

be hosting a limited capacity, socially distanced pantomime this Christmas. Join local favourites Danny, Clive and Chris alongside Geordie superstar Joe McElderry for a whole heap of festive laughs and panto fun based on the classic tale Robin Hood.

Show times include 12noon, 1pm, 3.30pm, 5pm and 7pm depending on the date. Tickets are expected to be snapped up extremely quickly.

cannot guarantee which events with Father Christmas are still available.

Sunday Lunch with Santa and The Grinch in the Grotto at The County Hotel, Newcastle. www.countyhotel.co.uk/christmas

www.theatreroyal.co.uk A CHRISTMAS CARLOL AT TYNE THEATRE AND OPERA HOUSE Saturday 5 December Here's one for the adults! Join local comedian Carl Hutchinson for a night of comedy at Tyne Theatre and Opera House this December. Carl (who recently found himself on BBC One hosting The One Show - fancy) will introduce three fantastic comedy acts doing their best material, with some of his own old and new hilarious stories too.

Book your tickets in groups of 2 or 4 (this must be within your household or support bubble) For tickets visit www.eventim.co.uk/ event/13296186

Grab a bite with Santa before he takes to the skies

FATHER CHRISTMAS ON HIS HOLIDAYS IN NEWCASTLE Breakfast, dinner or tea - Father Christmas loves to dine out, and he would love you to join him! A number of hotels have booked the big fella to come for a meal and invite you to join too.

Grab a bite with Santa before he takes to the skies at The Vermont or The County Hotel in Newcastle. He's a popular guy, especially so close to the big day – both breakfast and supper club events at the much-loved department store Fenwick Newcastle sold out almost instantly, but there are still other options to dine out with Santa. Many of the hotels require you to call up and book your table, so we

Breakfast in Santa's Workshop at The Vermont Hotel, Newcastle. www.vermont-hotel.com/meetingsand-events/breakfast-in-santasworkshop Afternoon Tea and Breakfast with Santa at The Caledonian Hotel, Jesmond. www.peelhotels.co.uk/caledonianhotel/weddings/festive-season. shtml IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE AT SOUTH CAUSEY INN Saturday, 5th December

Indulge in a festive Afternoon Tea at South Causey Inn while you watch perhaps the most iconic Christmas film of all time, It's a Wonderful Life.

Surrounded by twinkly Christmas lights and winter wonderland vibes, settle in for an afternoon tea of Turkey Sandwiches, delicious festive Pastries and Christmas Cakes while you find out what happens to George Bailey.

Arrive: 5 pm. Afternoon Tea served: 5.30 pm. Movie starts: 6 pm For details please visit www.southcausey.co.uk/its-awonderful-life/ 7

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LOCAL NEWS

THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOG FLY INTO NORTH TYNESIDE

North Tyneside’s town centres will be home to some very special guests this winter In a magical UK exclusive the The Snowman and The Snowdog trail will be coming to the borough.

The trail will see 20 lifesized sculptures grace North Tyneside streets from Saturday 14 November until the end of January, with residents and visitors expected to take up the challenge of finding them all whilst doing a spot of Christmas shopping.

An interactive app will be available for download in Android and iPhone app stores and a printed map can be collected from libraries and Customer First Centres from November 12, as well as printed out online.

Snowmen based on the muchloved 12 Days of Christmas song and eight uniquely decorated Snowdogs will be located in and around Wallsend, North Shields, Killingworth, Tynemouth and Whitley Bay. Elected Mayor of North Tyneside, Norma Redfearn CBE, said: “I’m thrilled that we have such a special event taking place across the winter that everyone can enjoy whilst supporting our important town centre businesses.

We know things are hard right now so it’s important that we still have things for people to see and do in a safe way. It’s a real coup to have the trail coming to North Tyneside and I hope it will provide our residents and visitors with something to look forward to and enjoy.”

Local artist Lisa Kirkbride’s Partridge in a Pear Tree Snowman will be found outside retailer For The Love of the North at the famous Spanish City in Whitley Bay. A print and Christmas card based on Lisa’s design will be 10

on sale there, and will also be available online and from selected St Oswald’s Hospice shops.

Proceeds from the trail activities will go to St Oswald’s to support the vital work they do.

Jane Hogan, Head of Fundraising at St Oswald’s Hospice said: “When North Tyneside Council announced their new art trail we were very excited. We were delighted to be the chosen charity to benefit.

The Snowdogs especially hold a very close place in our hearts after holding our own Snowdog Art Trail in 2016. After organising numerous art trails for St Oswald’s we understand how important they are to bring the local community together.

“Not only is this great for North Tyneside, but perfect for the whole of Tyne and Wear, bringing lots of excitement to festive shoppers.

Thank you to North Tyneside Council for choosing to support St Oswald’s Hospice, we can’t wait to take part in the trail.”

The trail is inspired by The Snowman and The Snowdog short animated film released in 2012 and

the sequel to Raymond Briggs’ worldwide and much-loved hit The Snowman. In it, a young boy builds a snowman and creates a Snowdog with the remaining snow.

At midnight both of his creations come to life.

This initiative is organised by North Tyneside Council and Wild in Art and is supported by the North of Tyne Combined Authority.

For more information and to print out a map see www.visitnorthtyneside.com.

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Healthy balanced meals and snacks are on offer as well as ensuring any dietary requirements.

Our fees include your child’s personal Learning Journey file with photographs, all meals, snacks, outings, visitors into nurseries etc. We do not have any hidden charges.

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We offer full day, half day, hours to suit shift workers, term time only as well as all year round, 51 weeks of the year. The nurseries are open 8.00am to 5.30pm with the option of extended bookable places from 7.30am and until 6pm.

Little Learners was voted as one of the best places to work in the North East for 2 years running and we are an Ofsted Outstanding Early Years Provider.

Please get in touch if you would like to look around our nurseries in a safe way Barnstaple Road, North Shields NE29 8QD Lovaine Place, North Shields NE29 0BU ( 0191 289 4047 or 07305 642 777 ( 07914 376 434

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CHRISTMAS EVENTS

WHAT'S ON LOCALLY

hopefully!

SHIMMER LIGHT, WHITLEY BAY

Salto Arts Productions and Whitley Bay Creative Civic Change invite you to light up the town with homemade illuminated garlands around your house or garden.

How-to videos for the creation of LED decorations using simple materials will be online and on the Whitley Bay Carnival Facebook page. www. saltoartsproductions.co.uk

TYNEMOUTH STATION CHRISTMAS MARKET Weekends December 9am – 3.30pm

Visitors to the popular market can shop for gifts and quirky stocking fillers from many unique, independent stalls. www.tynemouthmarkets.com

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS From 21 November

Our town centres at Whitley Bay, North Shields and Wallsend, plus Tynemouth Front Street, the Fish Quay and Whitley Lodge, will be sparkling with lights this festive season. Also look out for the annual Christmas trees on roundabouts right across the borough.

ELF ON THE (LIBRARY) SHELF Until 24 December

The cheeky elf will be getting up to mischief in North Shields, Whitley Bay and Killingworth libraries. Every time you visit the library, look for the elf and he’ll have a question for you to answer to enter our prize draw, drawn on Christmas Eve.

CULLERCOATS COMMUNITY ADVENT 1 – 30 December

Residents and businesses will host festive window or garden displays, with a new display being revealed each evening in the style of a ‘living’ advent calendar and forming a yuletide trail. Email cullercoatsadvent@ gmail.com or search ‘Cullercoats Community Advent’ on Facebook for details.

All information is correct at the time of going to print, but is subject to change depending on the latest safety advice. Please check online for the latest updates at www.visitnorthtyneside.com

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Concept is all about people THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC WE HAVE REMAINED STEADFAST IN OUR HEARTFELT COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE THE VERY BEST IN SAFE AND DIAGNOSTICALLY ADVANCED INDEPENDENT EYE CARE.

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t has been a year like no other.

Do you remember how you felt when the first lockdown was announced? At Concept, we had to take stock of a serious albeit surreal situation and respond with careful attunement to the needs of our patients requiring emergency and essential eye care. It was a creative challenge beset by restrictions. Whilst embracing our sense of mortality and wellbeing with forbearance in a changing landscape, we became aware that many of us experienced visual changes with our ‘new’ daily routine. How many of us needed a spare pair of glasses or wished we had an eye test sooner?

Our lives had changed and our eyes have never worked harder under the strain of everyday demands. Connecting with the world through digital engagement became a norm. We spent hours staring at our smartphones or computer screens. Is it any wonder that so many of us suffered with dry eyes, visual strain, stress and headache. As a key health care provider, we

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reassured our patients, many of whom felt trepidation to venture out, that we had re-configured our clinic with safe and robust protocols in place. In turn, we continue to be grateful by the support and feedback received.

AT HEART, CONCEPT IS A COMMUNITY PRACTICE. Our investment in our people, in advanced diagnostic instruments for routine eye examinations, bespoke and affordable care plans, Zeiss lenses and a sustainable, independent frame selection, is predicated on the belief that access to eye care is not just a privilege but a human right. Offering preventative care and meeting our patient’s optical health needs across the spectrum, has always been our priority. During the pandemic and beyond, reaching out to the vulnerable, the elderly, and those living alone, or without family, has been our privilege.

At Concept, we are inspired by the remarkable people we serve.

Here’s wishing you and your family, a healthy, loving and hopeful Christmas.

■ Concept Eye Clinic, 25 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DX 0191 285 1603 concepteyeclinic.com

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CHRISTMAS

Festive Fun in the Time of COVID

How on Earth can we celebrate in the midst of all this?

By Kate McCarthy

It's been a weird old year and we'd all be forgiven for feeling more flat than festive. What we need are some simple ways to take our mind off the current situation and finda little bit of fun. The pandemic will mean Christmas won’t look like it usually does, but with a bit of thought and creativity it's still possible to celebrate even, if we have to spend Christmas away from friends and family:

PRIORITISE Which traditions matter most to you? Which are easiest to maintain?

You can still set up the Christmas decorations, make special foods, and watch your favourite films.

Pantomimes and trips to the ballet are not possible though, so use the family time to set up a games evening with prizes and lots of shouting. You can play charades with friends and family either outside or via video link. My kids love Nintendo Just Dance, and find it hilarious when my husband and I join in. Kids mostly want you... in silly festive mode. So put your phone away, just like you would at the theatre, and get stuck in.

DECORATE A TREE OUTSIDE This is the year to deck out your decking, and pretty your patio.

Adorn an outdoor tree with LED lights and shatterproof ornaments.

Use twist ties or florist’s wire to secure the ornaments so they stay put even in the wind. Then invite a few friends round for a socially distanced switch on, complete with mulled wine.

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MAKE MEMORIES Create an advent calendar with festive activities for each day.

The activities don’t have to be elaborate; it could just be drinking hot chocolates with marshmallows together, wearing Santa hats, watching Elf, or taking silly festive photos START A NEW TRADITION How about a Secret Santa gift exchange outside round a firepit with toasted marshmallows? Or outdoor games on the decking with blankets and hot chocolate?

There might be an outdoor cinema near you showing Christmas films.

Go with friends, take blankets and flasks, and have a socially distanced outdoor film night!

SPREAD SOME JOY If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s how much the people in our lives

actually mean to us, so spread happiness where you can. Write down how much the people you love mean to you and send it out to them. Make Christmas cookies and leave some with your friends and neighbours.

DIFFERENT CAN BE SPECIAL You probably don't remember exactly what happens at Christmas from year to year, but when something out of the ordinary occurs, it sticks in your memory...

Christmas disasters often make the best dinner party stories in the years that follow. 2020 has the capacity to give us all enough stories for decades! * Please ensure any activites you undertake are in line with any lockdown restrictions in place as stated at www.gov.uk/ coronavirus

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LOCAL NEWS

GREEN FLAGS FLY HIGH ONCE AGAIN IN NORTH TYNESIDE

North Tyneside Council is once again celebrating the success of its award-winning parks.

Benton Quarry Park, Killingworth Lakeside Park, Northumberland Park, Marden Quarry Park, Wallsend Parks, and the Rising Sun Country Park have once again been recognised as being among the nation's finest parks and green spaces. And this year they are joined by Chirton and Redburn Dene Parks, in North Shields, which have been awarded the Green Flag for the first time this year.

The awards are presented every year by the environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy, and set the benchmark standard for how outdoor spaces are managed across the UK. Judges lavished praise on all North Tyneside’s parks, singling Chirton and Redburn Dene out as a ‘unique and well-maintained park that is clearly enjoyed by many users’. The Friends of Brierdene group also retained the Green Flag Community Award they have won every year since 2012.

Welcoming the announcement of the awards, Councillor Carl Johnson, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “We have such fantastic parks here in North Tyneside, so to see them recognised in this way is just fantastic. During such unprecedented

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times, parks and outdoor spaces like ours can provide a fantastic escape, and we know how much our residents appreciate having them at their leisure.

Commenting on the success of North Tyneside’s parks, Keep Britain Tidy Chief Executive Allison OgdenNewton OBE said: “This year, more than ever, our parks and green spaces have been a lifeline and we know that millions of people have used them to relax, meet friends, exercise or simply escape for a short time. It is testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of parks staff and volunteers that, despite the challenges that went along with record numbers of visitors, North Tyneside Council has achieved the highest international standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

Chartered Surveyors, Estate Agents, Valuers

The team at RA Jackson & Son are still here to help our tenants, landlords and homeowners during this uncertain time and we would be happy to discuss any property questions you have.

Stay home and stay safe, we are really looking forward to welcoming you all back.

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People proud of living and working in North Tyneside

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LOCAL NEWS

AGE UK NORTH TYNESIDE RESTARTS LATER LIFE GOALS PROGRAMME

Hundreds of lonely and isolated people in North Tyneside set to benefit from the reopening with tailored advice and support Age UK North Tyneside is delighted that its support programme for older people, Later Life Goals, funded by the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), the Freemasons’ charity, restarted in October 2020 following a sevenmonth pause due to Covid-19.

Hundreds of isolated older people in North Tyneside will be given the support and advice they need, thanks to the pioneering programme.

Focussing on the wider goals that each older person wants to achieve, rather than solely on their immediate problems, the partnership between Age UK and the MCF aims to significantly improve the circumstances and quality of life of thousands of older people, helping them plan ahead, stay connected and feel less lonely.

Later Life Goals provides one-toone support to older people who are going through major transitions in their lives, whether this is a serious health diagnosis, bereavement, a partner going into care, or any other key event that could have a serious impact on their wellbeing.

Significant life moments like these can be triggers for older people becoming more isolated and experiencing loneliness. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted older people and the new restrictions have made it hard for many to stay connected, especially if they live alone or have been shielding.

Thanks to Later Life Goals, older people in North Tyneside will continue to benefit from tailored support from specialist, trained advisors, be that information, advice or links to services or social activities.

Pat aged 73 said: “After I returned to the UK with very little money to support myself I was feeling very low and struggling to manage my 20

finances and get out and about.

I cannot put into words how much Age UK North Tyneside have changed my life!

The adviser was so supportive and she put me at ease straight away, I felt I could trust her to do the best she could for me” In total Pat’s weekly income has increased by £156.10 which is almost double the amount she received previously. That’s an extra £8,117.20 a year.

Initially delivered face-to-face, with the majority of older people being visited by Later Life Goals advisors in their own homes, the programme will now be delivered via telephone until it is safe and compliant with government guidelines to resume home visits.

Yvonne Probert, Head of Charity Services at Age UK North Tyneside, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to reopen the Later Life Goals programme and are very grateful to Northumberland freemasons for their generous and ongoing support.

“The programme has already had significant impact, helping us to improve the wellbeing of older people in North Tyneside and the reopening means we can continue our work keeping people connected

during these pivotal life moments.

“We know this year has been tough and we urge anyone who may be struggling with difficult events to get in touch with Age UK North Tyneside to find out how we can help them.”

Freemasons have been working with Later Life Goals advisors to support older people affected by Covid-19 in recent months. Our team has encouraged benefit entitlement take up as well as ensuring that we support older, vulnerable people with emergency hot meals, grocery shopping, prescription deliveries and offering a friendly voice to ease their isolation through our Befriending services.

Later Life Goals is funded by a £1 million grant from the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), which is funded by freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales. When the programme paused in March 2020, more than 4,600 people had already been supported.

■ Older people and their families or friends looking for support in North Tyneside can call Age UK North Tyneside on 0191 2808484 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside/ our-services/information-and-advice/

ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside 0191 280 8484

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Don't be left out in the cold

Did you know that you could be entitled to additional support this winter?

Winter Fuel & Cold Weather Payments, priority services registration for energy and water, or free Home Safety Checks from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service. Ask us about your entitlement.

Call our friendly Customer Service Team on 0191 280 8484 for free, impartial advice and support to help you apply.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Coffee To Relish Nestled in the heart of Whitley Bay, Relish Coffee has all a coffee lover could ask for and more.

F

ocussing on artisan small batch roasting, shoppers can enjoy Relishs’ range of 14 single origin coffees sourced from all over the world, with the bonus of all coffee being rainforest alliance certified or direct trade.

For owner and founder Polat it all began over 20 years ago in Turkey.

His passion for coffee and the science behind it was ignited and has grown over the years. Building his knowledge and experience working with corporate brands he was eager to branch out on his own.

Polat is keen to share his love of coffee with the local people, aiming to provide the best coffee experience and the highest quality coffee.

Since opening their coffee shop on Marine Avenue in 2012, the business has gone from strength to strength. Roasting their own coffee in house for the last 5 years and offering a range of single origin and various blends, including a home roasted decaf. After perfecting his roast Polat then moved on to the popular new world of cold brew coffee, and customers are loving the 18 hour brewed bottles. This then became the base for all of their iced beverages.

Since last year home users have been able to take advantage of Relish’s monthly subscription service including free local delivery, and delivery day is fast becoming the favourite day of the month for many! Starting at £5.95 per month subscribers can enjoy the finest seasonal harvest specially blended in house.

Personalised bags in your choice of single origin coffee are proving to be a popular gift choice among the locals. 75g sample tins are available should you wish to treat a loved one, and these can also be personalised.

The eye catching tins can be ordered

22

“Polat is keen to share his love of coffee with the local people, aiming to provide the best coffee experience and the highest quality coffee.”

in bulk and are a hit as wedding favours, or gifts at corporate events.

In September, Polat opened his second shop on Monkseaton Front Street. With its Instagram worthy interior and knowledgeable staff, here you can sample all of their coffee, and for those interested in brewing the perfect cup the Coffee Academy will teach you all you need to know.

Polat’s team are happy to share their knowledge and coffee experience with customers, and a

wide range of coffee equipment and gadgets are available in both shops. Supplying well known brands such as Gaggia and Aeropress, if home brewing is your thing you wont be disappointed. A visit to www.relishcoffee.com will take you to their monthly blog where you can find brewing guides to help you along.

If coffee isn’t your thing, don’t be disheartened. They also have a wide range of flavoured tea, milkshakes and soft drinks as well as cakes and Turkish mezzes, making a visit to Relish a must when visiting the coast.

27 Marine Ave, Whitley Bay, NE26 1LX 22 Front Street, Monkseaton, NE25 8DF

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CHRISTMAS

Robin Redbreast

HOW THE ROBIN CAME TO SYMBOLISE CHRISTMAS

By Tracey Anderson

Think of winter in the garden and you'll most likely think of a robin. Think of Christmas cards and you'll probably think of the same.

Why do robins have such a strong association with winter?

There is actually an increase in robin numbers during the winter months. They migrate from Scandinavia, Russia and Europe swelling the ranks of our resident robins when the days become too cold and food becomes scarce in their own countries.

There are several legends relating robins to winter and Christmas in particular.

The first legend hails from Victorian times, when the tradition of sending Christmas cards started. Royal Mail postmen of the time wore bright red uniforms, which earned them the nickname of ‘robin’ or ‘redbreast’. Victorian artists usually illustrated Christmas cards with pictures relating to the delivery of letters, such as post-boxes and postmen.

Eventually artists began to play on this word association and postman 'robin' was exchanged for the familiar little brown and red bird, who began to appear in illustrations, sometimes delivering the letters. Middle class Victorians loved all things sentimental and charming, so the trend caught on and continues to this day, with the robin adorning everything from wrapping paper to Christmas jumpers.

Even before the Victorian era, robins had a strong association 24

with the traditional Christmas story and Christianity. In one tale, it is said that when Mary was giving birth to baby Jesus in the stable, she noticed the fire Joseph had lit was in danger of going out. Suddenly, a small brown bird appeared and started flapping its wings in front of the fire, fanning the embers, and causing it to roar back to life. As the bird flew around tending to the fire, a stray ember made its way towards the tiny creature, scorching its breast bright red.

Mary declared that the red breast was a sign of the bird’s kind heart, which would be passed on to its descendants to wear proudly ever after.

There are also Celtic-based tales which link the robin with wintertime. One tells of the feud between the wren, known as

the Holly King of Winter, and the robin who was known as the Oak King of Summer. The Holly King was driven away by the Oak King on the Winter Solstice, and the robin took his rightful place. However, on the Summer Solstice, the Holly King gets to take his revenge, and the wren replaces the robin. This story repeats every year and represents the changing of the seasons. It was probably told by way of explaining why we see more robins during the winter months.

Whatever the truth, the robin is a beautiful cheery symbol of this time of year and, if you can spare a little food, particularly meal worms, and some water, he will reward you by visiting your garden daily.

Happy Christmas.

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Help santa deliver the gifts under the tree

Christmas Limerick There once was a reindeer named Fred Who decided to paint his nose red Rudolf said, “That looks brill!”

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29

LOCAL NEWS

North Tyneside Council has secured funding for a fleet of electric Cargo bikes to help improve air quality, promote sustainable travel and support businesses.

The council has been successful in a bid for more than £76,000 from the Department of Transport’s e-Cargo Bike Grant Fund – making North Tyneside the only local authority in the region to receive the funding. The remainder of funding for the £84,000 scheme is made up from the council’s contribution.

Following the declaration of a Climate Emergency in 2019, the council has committed to supporting businesses in the borough to use cleaner forms of transport, contributing to improved air quality and reducing Carbon emissions. The e-Cargo bikes will be available to businesses through the Chambers of Trade in the various retail centres throughout North Tyneside and can be used by local businesses and large organisations for deliveries.

Police and voluntary groups will also be able to access them for patrols and reaching vulnerable members of the community. The council will lend the bikes to voluntary organisations to deliver food and care packages to members of the community who need them.

Operators at Cobalt Business Park will use bikes to carry out site security patrols and environmental management of the bio-diversity park, replacing diesel utility vehicles.

The council will also use the bikes to carry out business operations as well as making them available for use in its Bikeability cycle training for children to raise awareness of them as a viable alternative to cars and vans.

The authority is working with local partners, including Ride Electric who have developed a booking and monitoring system, and Bike for Health who help deliver cycle training to local organisations and schools using the e-Cargo bikes.

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Image: North Tyneside Council

Cleaner, greener transport boost for North Tyneside

The scheme will initially focus on Whitley Bay, and North Shields, where major regeneration proposals are currently being consulted on through the council’s Ambition for North Shields draft masterplan.

It will see businesses in the town given access to bikes to help them get around issues with deliveries and accessing their premises and will support the ‘Buy Local North Tyneside’ initiative.

It all comes after the council’s second Summer of Cycling campaign, aimed at encouraging people to get out on two wheels and enjoy the open spaces on offer in the borough.

North Tyneside’s Cycling Champion Cllr Sarah Day: “It is great news that we have secured this funding for a fleet of new e-Cargo bikes – we are leading by example in shifting towards greener and more sustainable forms of transport.

“As a council we are committed to promoting active, sustainable travel and all the benefits it brings.

We have ambitious plans to continue to increase participation in cycling and expand the types of bikes being used across the borough.

Cllr Carl Johnson, cabinet member for Environment and Transport: “In North Tyneside we are continuing to make really good progress in dealing with our Climate Emergency and our commitment

to preserving the environment.

Therefore this is really positive step towards reducing carbon emissions in the borough and encouraging zero-emissions deliveries.”

Stuart Fearn, from the team who recently launched buylocalnorthtyneside.co.uk : “This is a fabulous opportunity for high street businesses across North Tyneside to look at innovative ways of pivoting their businesses to provide a delivery service. It is clear that there is an ever-growing need for business to widen distribution models and a desire from shoppers to use and support local independent businesses.”

Lynn Cramman, Development Manager, Cobalt Park: “Our team of on-site wardens patrol and maintain the park over a vast area connected by bridleways not always easily accessible by our utility vehicles so we are delighted to have this opportunity to access a greener alternative as part of our management function.”

The Buy Local team are asking business and residents whether they’d welcome a new delivery service using the electric cargo bikes. Any local business or resident interested in this service can email talk@buylocalnorthtyneside.co.uk The e-Cargo Bike Grant Fund scheme is funded by the Department for Transport and delivered by Energy Saving Trust.

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34

LOCAL NEWS

Image: North Tyneside Council

Next stage of Whitley Bay's Northern Promenade transformation to begin

Work to complete the next stage of the ambitious transformation of Whitley Bay’s Northern Promenade is to get underway.

North Tyneside Council is investing more than £1million in the project, which will see the external renovation of the much-loved Rendezvous Café and elements of The Links Gallery Cafe, the public toilets revamped, the Dukes Walk car park resurfaced and the promenade surface and public realm in the areas around the cafes upgraded. The work is expected to be complete by spring 2021.

It is the next phase of the council’s exciting makeover of the popular promenade and forms part of the Ambition for North Tyneside strategy, which outlines plans for major investment in each part of the borough.

As part of the Ambition strategy, a number of major achievements have already been made, including the major £6million flood alleviation project at Killingworth Lake and the revamp of Forest Hall shopping area, while public consultation is underway on the draft masterplan for North Shields aimed at revitalising the town centre and improving its connectivity to the Fish Quay.

Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn CBE said: “I am absolutely delighted that we’re ready to press ahead with the next stage of the promenade’s transformation. We’re seeing lots of great, new investment in the town on the back of our successful regeneration and it will only add to the popularity and appeal of Whitley Bay as a great place to live, work and visit.”

The first phase of improvements to the promenade, which were part of the council’s multi-million pound Seafront Master Plan, saw the tired and uninviting walkway completely transformed with bright coloured surfacing and new seating, shelters and railings. An ice cream and coffee kiosk has also opened there. As part of the next phase, red tarmac will replace the current paving in the area in front of the Rendezvous café, new pebble seating will be installed and the edging blocks and railings will be upgraded to match the southern section.

The public toilets will be given a makeover, similar to the work carried out to improve the Watts Slope facilities. The work to the café is aimed at preserving its character while improving the fabric

of the building. Level access will be created and repointing work and repairs will be carried out.

The Dukes Walk car park will be resurfaced, the entrance steps to the Links Art Gallery entrance will be replaced, the connecting footpaths to the promenade will be improved and the shelter on the Links opposite Bournemouth Gardens will undergo repairs.

Both the Rendezvous and Links Gallery cafes will remain open throughout the works and although the existing public toilets will be closed during the project, temporary toilet facilities will be provided next to the car park.

Parking will not be available in the Dukes Walk car park from 12 October and public access will be prevented to the car park and to the promenade in front of the Rendezvous Café, as well as through the southern archway from the car park to the promenade.

Alternative parking is available nearby in the Brierdene car park and elsewhere along the coast.

Further work to complete the refurbishment of the remainder of the promenade is also earmarked to take place over the next two to three years.

35

ADVERTISING FEATURE

2020 A Year to Forget - or was it?

JACQUELINE EMMERSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EMMERSONS SOLICITORS, REFLECTS ON 2020

W

ell, this is a year we will never forget. But I wanted to reflect upon some positive things that happened.

Many people, me included, wrote their wills. Can you imagine, here I am a solicitor who specialises in Will Writing, and it took me twenty years to update my will and that of my husband! Really, no excuse. Except that every time I tried to plan our estates it just became so complicated because I was over-thinking things.

So each time I just gave up. Whenever we went on holiday abroad I would panic and think what if anything happens to us. I still didn’t make my will. But I’ve got to say that as soon as the enormity of the pandemic hit us all I drafted our wills in less than an hour. A huge huge sense of relief. I now understand what clients mean when they have completed their wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney with us. They often say that its a huge weight off their mind. It’s certainly one less thing for me to worry about.

Another positive has been that we are now able to be much more flexible as a firm. We always did offer home, care home and hospital visits for our clients.

However, we had to rethink things. So now we offer telephone, Facebook and Zoom appointments. We work with what suits you and us. This means that you can be dealt with by staff from either of our offices.

Thus we can offer you faster appointments. We have set up systems whereby you can prove your identity without having to attend our office.

We have also established a system to assist you with the signing of your documents - a drive-through service!

This is available by appointment at either our Newcastle or Sunderland offices. Both signing stations can be accessed with ease by car. We do ask that you bring your own pen to the appointment, although we will have sanitiser to hand if required. Two of our staff will quickly and safely witness your documents for you and you will be on your way before you know it.

COMPASSION

As a probate solicitor I often have to deal with obtaining death certificates, registering deaths, and arranging funerals. I see it as being a very important part of my job to arrange a decent funeral for my clients. Some of them have no close relatives. As you can imagine if I am dealing with everything then my clients were somewhat isolated. But compassion is what I have witnessed over the last few months. The registrars of births deaths and marriages have had to find new ways of working. I now deal with them by telephone, and they are kind and helpful people. Local, independent, funeral directors I have dealt with have gone above and beyond. In one case they managed to find me a vicar who would 36

travel down to Tynemouth to conduct a service so that my client’s funeral could take place much sooner. They sourced flowers for me, which was a real problem at one stage and they even drove past my client’s old care home so that her friends could pay their respects. I have also worked with our very supportive Clear and Clean JACQUELINE EMMERSON Team to sort out documents such as funeral plans and house insurance on an urgent basis.

But can I ask you to show compassion. There are some very lonely people out there. I sobbed when one lady contacted me. She had been looking after her husband as he had dementia. He had to go into hospital and contracted covid and died. She said she hadn’t seen any one but him for months, she couldn’t stop crying, she had no one to turn to. Another lady, aged 93 rang us recently, wanting to make sure we had her new address as we are holding her will. She said she hadn’t spoken to anyone but us since March!

When was the last time you checked on your neighbours? If you are a churchgoer or a vicar, have you noted those people who haven’t been coming to church, have you checked up on them, a phone call perhaps.

I would also like to bring to your attention the good works that have taken place in our community. Feeding Families is a new charity set up to help people at Christmas by way of provision of food hampers. During Covid they have delivered the equivalent of 60,000 meals across the North East, both to individuals and also in partnership with schools, domestic violence refuges, to the elderly and sick.

They are currently supplying 5 hospitals with “Welcome Home” boxes - these are for vulnerable and often elderly patients who are being discharged home and may not have food to go back to. If you feel that you could help by donating food items then this can be dropped off at either of our offices.

Finally I’d like to let you know that we have won Small Law Firm of the year at the Law Society Excellence Awards. These are national awards and I’m proud that we have put the North East on the national map.

I hope we all have a better year next year and in the meantime I wish you well.

Tel: 0191 2846989 Email: je@emmersons-solicitors.co.uk emmersons-solicitors.co.uk

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37

C H R I ST M A S

THE SCIENCE OF SNOW Are you dreaming of a white Christmas?

By Louise Addison

Have you ever given any thought to the science behind snow? Whether you love frolicking in the white stuff at the first sign of a snowflake, or prefer bundling up and hibernating until the spring thaw, here’s a blizzard of brrillliant snow-driven facts...

SNOW IS NOT WHITE

You can certainly dream of a white Christmas, even if it isn’t strictly accurate. As any good snow pedant will tell you, the ‘white stuff’ isn’t actually white, but rather translucent.

It’s the light reflecting off it that makes it appear white with the many sides of the snowflake scattering light in many directions, diffusing the entire colour spectrum.

THE SHAPE OF SNOWFLAKES

Part of the enduring appeal of snowflakes is their intricate appearance and near-infinite variation, meaning that all snowflakes are unique. The number of possibilities of nuances in temperature and humidity as the snowflake falls to the ground is limitless.

The ice crystals that make up snowflakes are patterned symmetrically because frozen water molecules arrange themselves in predetermined spaces known as crystallization, to form a six-sided snowflake.

If you look closely at a snowflake you will see countless individual features, all having formed ever so slightly differently in direction or shape, owing to the slightest change in the environment in which it formed.

SPEEDY SNOWFLAKES

Most snow falls at a speed of between 1 - 4 mph dependent upon the individual snowflake’s mass and surface area, as well as the environmental conditions surrounding its descent.

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Snowflakes which collect supercooled water as they fall can fall at up to 9 mph, but snowflakes, as most people recognise them, will tend to float down at around 1.5 mph taking about an hour to reach the ground.

SNOW AFFECTS SOUND

Freshly fallen snow absorbs sound waves, giving everything a seemingly hushed, quieter ambience after a flurry. But if the snow then melts and refreezes, the ice can reflect sound waves making sound travel further and clearer.

SNOW WARMS YOU UP

Because snow is comprised of 90 to 95 percent trapped air, it means it’s a great insulator. This is the reason many animals burrow deep into the snow during winter in order to hibernate. It’s also the reason that igloos, that use only body heat to warm them, can be 100 degrees warmer inside than outside.

SO WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS?

Whilst the vision of a Christmas Day surrounded by snow fills Christmas cards, movies and songs, snow is actually much more likely in January and February than in December.

In the UK, snow or sleet falls on an average of 3.9 days in December, compared to 5.3 days in January, 5.6 days in February and 4.2 days in March. There has been a widespread covering of snow (over 40 % of weather stations reporting snow) only four times in the last 51 years.

Those hoping for a white Christmas should be heartened to hear that snow has at least fallen on Christmas Day somewhere in the UK 38 times in the last 52 years.

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Age UK North Tyneside Bradbury Centre 13 Saville Street West North Shields NE29 6QP Dear Resident, At Age UK North Tyneside we continue to work to support older people in later life. As Christmas approaches, I am mindful that this can be a very difficult time for older people, especially those living alone.

While the pandemic has challenged us, I am proud of how we have adapted and changed. I can say with confidence that we are reaching and supporting more people than ever before. But there is still more we need to do.

Over the summer of 2019 we consulted on our 2025 Strategy. Older people were very clear what they wanted, an organisation that they can approach and be guided to the right services and support. We want more older people to be able to access the fantastic and extensive range of services in North Tyneside and enjoy later life.

We are working hard to deliver a ‘One Stop Shop’ for older people in North Tyneside, and we have made great progress. I, therefore, want to encourage you to get in touch with us. If you are over 50 and would like to to know more about our services and those of our many partners, call us on 0191 280 8484 or email customer.services@ageuknorthtyneside.org.uk. Our Customer Services Team is available Monday to Friday between 08:45 and 16:30. If you need support outside of these hours I would encourage you to contact Silverline on 0800 470 8090. We work in partnership with Silverline who are available 24/7 and provide a confidential helpline for older people.

A taster of our current services includes befriending, dementia support, information, advice and guidance. These are are all available by telephone and, where necessary and essential, face to face. We are also providing a range of social and physical activities online and if the digital world is not for you then we can provide you with HowFit exercises on a DVD to do at home. We have also launched our Christmas programme which includes a range of festive activities, there is something for everyone, including carol singing with local children.

Sadly, I fear the number of older people living in poverty is increasing. We have fewer people contacting us for information, advice, and guidance, particularly benefit advice. Financial independence can unlock so many doors to a better quality of life, I would urge you to get in touch Finally, I would like to ask everyone to keep an eye out for older neighbours and family members at this time of year. Reach out where you can. If you are concerned about an older person and not quite sure what to do, please contact us.

That brings me to another new initiative that I am passionate about and you could be part of, our Neighbourhood Network. We are looking to “recruit” Neighbourhood Ambassadors, local people who would like to connect with us and support their older neighbours.

Age UK North Tyneside is very much open for business despite the pandemic, we are just a phone call away. I send my best wishes for Christmas and my wish for a happier and healthier New Year.

Dawn McNally Group Chief Executive

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41

CHRISTMAS

Festive Films you’ve (probably) never heard of

By Kate McCarthy Every year we rely on a handful of our favourite Christmas movie staples. There’s nothing like getting cosy with a perfect mug of hot chocolate and immersing ourselves in It’s a Wonderful Life, or Elf to set the tone of the season.

Usually Christmas films provide a break from all the frantic festivities, a little welcome downtime. Well, in 2020 we've had almost nothing BUT downtime and, let's face it, we probably watched most of our festive film playlist back when Halloween was cancelled. But I have three wonderful festive film suggestions you may never have seen in your life, or perhaps you've simply forgotten them.

Enjoy.

29TH STREET

This terrific comedy drama from 1991 is actually set in 1976. It involves a lucky Italian American son, his unlucky hard-working father, the Mob, and a lottery ticket. It's an underrated gem. Thank me later.

BRAZIL

If you like your comedy black and dystopian this is the movie for you. Terry Gilliam’s Brazil is not just a Christmas movie, it's a Christmas movie for the little people; those of us trying to get by in a world gone temporarily more insane than usual without actually succumbing to insanity.

Perfect for 2020 then!

MEET JOHN DOE

This predates It's a Wonderful Life by a few years but is funnier and equal in its feel-good factor. Introduce your teens to Garry Cooper and watch them swoon.

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Parmesan Biscuits MOREISH FESTIVE GOODIES

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Makes about 24+

1.

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

2.

Place the butter and flour into a bowl or a food processor with the salt, cayenne, mustard powder, and cheeses. Rub the fat into the flour mixture then gradually bring the mixture together to form a dough.

Don't add egg or water.

Wrap the dough in cling film and leave to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Ingredients • • • • • •

✁

•

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•

100g cold unsalted butter, cut into chunks 100g plain flour, plus extra for flouring pinch salt pinch cayenne pepper 1 heaped tsp mustard powder 50g finely grated mature cheddar 50g finely grated parmesan, or similar vegetarian hard cheese, plus a little extra 1 egg, beaten

festive cutters. Lay them out on a greased baking tray about 2cm apart. You might need two trays.

Method

3.

Lightly flour a work surface and gently roll out the pastry to about 1cm thick.

Cut out the biscuits using

4.

Brush the surface of each biscuit with the beaten egg and sprinkle over a little finely grated parmesan. Bake for 10 minutes, or until they are golden-brown. They smell heavenly!

5.

Remove from the oven and carefully lift the biscuits off the tray using a palette knife, then place on a rack to cool. They make lovely gifts and will keep well in a sealed container for a few days.

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Image: North Tyneside Council

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Georgian apartments go on sale in Northumberland Square With their classic exterior, period features, and modern living spaces – these luxury apartments are expected to be in high demand.

The five properties are the first of 28 new homes to be completed as part of a stunning Georgian revival in Northumberland Square. The Grade II listed terrace, built between 1810 and 1816, is being converted back into homes as part of a bold project to create a stylish new living space in the centre of North Shields.

The apartments have been tastefully modernised, each with an open plan living room, dining room and kitchen, and a choice of one or two bedrooms. Courtyard parking and gardens are available at the back but the ‘wow factor’ is likely to be the view across the Northumberland Square Conservation Area, which is the nearest thing Tyneside has to the celebrated Georgian squares of London, Bath and Edinburgh.

In total, 10 listed apartments and two townhouses are being created, while a further 16 new build homes are taking shape at Northumberland Close (13 houses and three apartments) on the neighbouring plot between Northumberland Square and Albion Road.

The redevelopment is being delivered by Aurora Properties, acting on behalf of North Tyneside Council, with construction work being carried out by Compass Developments Ltd. It’s part of the Ambition for North Shields masterplan, which aims to combine living, working and retail and transform the town centre into a family-friendly destination as well as connecting it to an increasingly vibrant Fish Quay.

Councillor Bruce Pickard, Director of Aurora Properties and Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside, said: “The building, like the square itself, is a fine example of Georgian architecture and although the townhouses have been divided into apartments, there is a definite air of grandeur and elegance about these properties. The architects have very tastefully updated the buildings and found the perfect balance between the historic and the contemporary.

“The project is one of the key elements of a plan to revitalise the town centre and Fish Quay in North Shields, and of the wider Ambition for North Tyneside strategy focussing on the whole of the borough. Great care and attention has been taken, from the design and layout of the properties to the finish of the fixtures and fittings, and to ensure that original features would be incorporated into the design. I am certain that people will be swept away by the prospect of living here the moment they step inside.”

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WORDSEARCH Can you find all of the Christmas food hidden in the grid?

Biscuits Bread Sauce Cheddar Chocolates Christmas Cake Crackers Cranberries Gammon Goose Grapes Ham Leftovers Mince Pies Mints Mulled Wine

Panettone Pickles Port Smoked Salmon Stilton Stollen Stuffing Tangerines Turkey

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VOLUNTEERING

Could you be a Community Health Champion?

VODA is harnessing the power of North Tyneside residents as Community Health Champions to play a vital role in sharing up to date, trusted health messages with people they know and care about during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There is so much information out there in the public realm that it is easy for misleading and inaccurate information to spread. VODA is recruiting a network of Community Health Champions who can share accurate information with their networks as they go about their lives.

Community Health Champions will reach out to their local community to pass on important messages to their friends, neighbours, colleagues, customers and service users. This role can also be carried out from home with Community Health Champions sharing information with their virtual networks.

VODA’s new Community Health Champion lead Alice Holliday will provide the network of champions with clear and easily communicable health messages in the form of infographics, animations and easy read posters. VODA will also provide support when clarification is needed or if further signposting to existing community services is required.

Alice commented: “We’ve already had such a positive response from members of the local community from all walks of life wanting to become Community Health Champions, which is fantastic to see. I’m really excited to see the impact of working alongside communities to co-create methods of engaging residents to help keep everyone safe.”

This is a new and exciting opportunity which will provide an essential service by helping local residents to be better informed and more able to adapt to change and to minimise the spread of COVID-19.

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It does not require a huge time commitment and each Community Champion will identify the groups or people they would like to share this information with so can fit in easily with daily life.

Newly recruited Champion Adam Gray, Community Missioner for St John’s Percy Main & St Peter’s Balkwell in North Shields commented on why he felt it was important to get involved: “It was the easiest decision to offer to get involved in the Community Health Champions project, as it seems like such a good opportunity to ensure our local communities get the best advice about keeping safe and healthy, and promptly. I know from experience that people have been confused as advice has changed, so if being able to help communicate up-to-date but down-to-earth information goes even a little way to combatting that, it feels worthwhile.”

On why VODA decided to create this new scheme, Robin Fry, Chief Executive at VODA said: “We believe that everyone who lives and works in North Tyneside has a role to play in helping to keep their communities safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ABOVE: VODA’s new Community Health Champion lead Alice Holliday During recent months we have seen first-hand the incredible community spirit that exists in North Tyneside.

We're really excited to be trialling this new approach to harnessing the incredible caring commitment that exists across our borough.”

■ If you would like to be a Community Health Champion, find out more and sign up at voda.org.uk/champions. Or you can contact Alice Holliday at VODA on 0191 643 2626, email alice.holliday@voda.org.uk for more information.

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SIGNWORD In this crossword the clues are printed in what would normally be the ‘black’ squares. Follow the signs from each clue to find where the word should fit.

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Father (inf.)

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Beverage

F H O P P O O U R W L E D P F G R A D U O R A N W E D

Citrus fruit

Take in marriage

Cause to corrode

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ADVE RTISIN G FE ATUR E

Blyth Bungalow Development Nearing Completion

Local bungalow developer, Altoria Development, is nearing completion of their latest stunning bungalow development in Blyth.

Oakfield Grove is an exclusive development of only four detached bungalows tucked away in a quiet and private cul de sac off Inglewood Close, Chase Farm; the development is approached via a private driveway leading to a courtyard setting.

All four bungalows are approximately 982 square feet and comprise of two double sized bedrooms. The bespoke kitchen includes integrated Bosch appliances: fridge, freezer, induction hob, extractor and single oven.

Laminate worktop and co-ordinated cabinetry with soft closing doors and under cabinet lighting. The spacious family bathroom is tiled and includes a bath and shower over with a glass screen. Modern white doors with brushed chrome door handles feature throughout. All flooring is included within the purchase along with a bespoke colour scheme.

Undoubtedly the focal feature of each new bungalow is the stunning large living room which has impressive windows and French doors leading to the landscaped rear garden.

Externally, the front gardens are turfed and have a block paved 60

“The focal feature of each new bungalow is the stunning large living room which has impressive windows and French doors leading to the landscaped rear garden.” driveway. A footpath surrounds the property and external lighting is included. The properties are Freehold with mains gas, electricity and water.

Each home also comes with a tenyear structural warranty.

With two plots already sold and new homeowners due to complete in a matter of weeks, it has been a busy year for Altoria Development.

Alan, director of Altoria Development, said: “Oakfield Grove is set to be another wonderful development with a high specification included as standard and within the sale price of £215,000. This development benefits from local services nearby yet still offers a secluded and private location.”

Oakfield Grove is ideally located for easy access to the large Asda supermarket, only a few minutes walk away, as well as a wide range of local amenities in Blyth town centre, lovely beach walks and the thriving Blyth harbour. The development is also close to the A189 Spine Road for commuting to Newcastle and the coast, with direct links to the A1 for the rest of the region.

Victoria, co-director added, “We highly recommend a viewing of our show home to understand the high finish and full specification included within the purchase price. Our stunning new show home is now open, and we are delighted to be able to offer viewings, by appointment only, seven days a week.”

To arrange a site viewing, or to request the sales literature of Oakfield Grove, Blyth please call Altoria Development on 01670 432603 or email info@altoriadevelopment.co.uk.

Altoria Development specialise in bungalow developments and are always on the lookout for further sites with or without planning permission.

Altoria Development’s current developments are at Oakfield Grove, Blyth and Ridge Grove, Stannington.

For further details visit their website www.altoriadevelopment.co.uk

BOOKS

A GOOD READ

By Willow Coby

FOUND

by Erin Kingsley It’s a parent’s worst nightmare: you are waiting for your child to come home from school and they don’t.

This is the situation that Claire and Matt found themselves in when their 11-year-old son, Evan, did not come home from school after football practice. The police are called, and the search is on. Claire and Matt are torn apart by the events and as the months drift on they give up all hope of Evan coming home.

But, as the title suggests, Evan is indeed found. But the boy that returns to them is not the same boy that went missing. Refusing to talk to anyone he is withdrawn, only finding short moments of happiness and peace when visiting his grandparents on their farm. The police try to ascertain what happened but to no avail. Until another boy goes missing.

What drew me to this book is the fact that the focus is on what happened AFTERWARDS. We all watch news reports of children who are abducted and sometimes there is a happy ending. For us, as onlookers, that is where the story ends. But is it possible for a family just pick up and carry on as if nothing happened? How on earth do you rebuild those lost moments with your child?

PATSY

by Nicole Dennis-Benn Patsy grew up in an impoverished town in Jamaica and struggles to make ends meet, raising her 5-yearold daughter, Tru. But she has a dream. A dream that lies across the ocean in a city that never sleeps, watched over by Lady Liberty. She isn’t the only one. Many have left Jamaica for America, sending home details of their new lives. But you can’t just leave Jamaica and head to the US. When Patsy is finally granted a visa, it is only a visitor one.

And just for her, not Tru. And so, leaving her daughter behind with her previously absent father, she begins her life as an undocumented migrant. It soon becomes clear that life in New York is not what she thought it would be.

Dennis-Benn has created an engrossing novel showing the reality of the plight of migrants. Spanning a decade, it switches between Patsy and her new life and Tru’s childhood as she grows up without her mother. It says something about her skills as a writer that she has created a central character that is so flawed and yet likeable at the same time.

The dialogue switches effortlessly between English and Jamaican Patois, leaving you, the reader, as an inhabitant of 62

the two worlds that Patsy herself occupies. Will she ever be reunited with her daughter and how does a decision taken so long ago affect the two of them as life moves on around them in two vastly different countries?

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars is the hugely successful teen novel exploring the impact of teenage cancer on the lives of two individuals. 16-year-old Hazel has cancer and is, reluctantly, convinced by her parents to attend a support group for others in her situation. Amongst the other patients there is Augustus, a 17-year-old boy who lost a leg to cancer.

The two begin talking and agree to read each other’s favourite books. Hazel’s book is a novel by a Dutch writer about a young girl with cancer: Hazel sees many parallels to her own life here. Augustus is angry after reading the book and discovering that it doesn’t have a nicely wrapped up ending. There is no conclusion, no neat package, no ending: happy or otherwise.

Of course, life has an ending, but it often isn’t happy or neatly wrapped up. Hazel becomes aware of her fears about getting close to others. She is afraid that when she dies it will hurt them, and this naturally affects her relationship with Augustus.

This moving novel deals with issues that most of its teen readers won’t have yet faced in their lives. As a teenager you often feel immortal. You feel as if life is stretching out ahead of you. Hazel and Augustus, along with the other young people at the support group view life differently.

There is no expectation that everyone will make it to the next meeting. No one is immortal.

HOPSCOTCH & HANDBAGS

By Lucy Mangan

Subtitled ‘The truth about being a girl’, this book is essential reading for grown up girls of all ages. In it, Lucy Mangan explores the subtleties of female life from school onwards – or, as the title has it, from Hopscotch to Handbags.

The tone is always light-hearted.

This is no self help book – instead it’s a mixture of reminiscences, cautionary tales and laugh out loud moments. Packed with lists, diary entries, jokes and quizzes that are pure 1970’s Jackie magazine, the beauty of the book is how quickly you can place yourself within it.

What girl doesn’t remember the intricate rules of teenage friendship, or the range of helpful excuses to get out of the dreaded PE lesson twice a week? And while lists may be something you would expect in a boy’s book, here they serve as a checklist and a reminder - I guarantee that you will measure your teenage self against the ‘cool and uncool’ list, and the Top Ten Beloved Books will send you back to your old childhood favourites (Malory Towers, anyone?)

Mangan’s style is chatty, confidential and inclusive – and her points hit home.

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