ABC Magazine - NORTH Edition - April/May 2019

ABC YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE

NORTH EDITION

APR/MAY 2019 ISSUE 63

GROW YOUR OWN

Start growing your own fruit and veg at home with tips from Plantsplus Garden Centre

INSIDE

LOCAL NEWS OFFERS EVENTS M O R PETH

UNTOLD STORIES SKY TV's Pete Graves uncovers the real life stories behind local National Lottery funding

B E D L INGTON

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WELCOME TO ABC Welcome to ABC North your bi-monthly local magazine. ABC North is distributed free of charge to thousands of homes and is available in over 200 outlets such as CafĂŠs, Dentists, Hairdressers, Health Clubs, Community Centres. You can also read it online by following the link at www.yourabc.co.uk Each edition of ABC brings you a range of exclusive adverts and features including, local news, business features, food reviews, beauty news, special offers and more.

If you’re interested in advertising in ABC, please call Richard on 07526 522272 or email info@yourabc.co.uk Publisher: R Wilson Advertising, PO Box 225, Bedlington, NE63 3FL.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other clause. R Wilson Advertising does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All Rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission of the publisher.

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TASTY DATES The North East has a fast developing reputation as one of the most up and coming regions in the country for the quality and diverse range of its food and drink. The 2019 calendar is already filling up with culinary festivals and markets.

Here are just some of the regions events already confirmed for this year.

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PROPER FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

These festivals have already proved themselves a popular addition to the region’s gourmet calendar with outings in North Shields, Whitley Bay and Cramlington in recent years. This year’s confirmed events are: North Shields 4-6 May; South Shields 25-27 May; Whitley Bay 15-16 June; Gosforth 13-14 July Finally, the Great North Feast, South Shields August 24-26 a massive celebration of food and drink, bringing together the community for a social eating experience which has never been seen before in the North East. www.properfoodanddrinkfestivals.co.uk

TYNEMOUTH FOOD FESTIVAL

Tynemouth Priory and Castle hosts the annual festival on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May. Stalls include Papa Ganoush, Fat Hippo, Scream for Pizza, The Little Fishy and more. There will also be stalls selling local artisan products, a festival bar and live music. www.tynemouthfoodfestival.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

GATESHEAD BEER FESTIVAL

The tenth annual event is scheduled for 3 - 5 May at the ground of Gateshead Rugby Club at Eastwood Gardens, Low Fell. As well as ales and ciders produced locally and from around the country, hot and cold food will be available along with Cava, gin and whisky. There will also be a full programme of live music, with a mix of genres including soul, rock, indie, folk, irish, tibutes and even male voice choirs. www.gatesheadbeerfestival.co.uk

SEAHAM FOOD FESTIVAL

This year sees the first ever Seaham Food Festival taking place on 8 and 9 June. Set in the lively harbour town, the festival will bring a host of culinary delights to Durham’s heritage coast, with top chefs, fabulous traders and producers, and tasty demonstrations to get the taste buds tingling. www.seahamfoodfestival.co.uk

NORTH EAST CHILLI FESTIVAL

Since its inception in 2010, the Chilli Festival has grown from a one day event into a 3 day music and food celebration. This year the festival will take place at Meggies Burn Fields on Blyth seafront from 5-7 July, and, as the name suggests, will feature an array of spicy treats to tempt, and definitely tingle the taste buds! The main stage will play host to a variety of local and national bands, as well as the infamous chilli eating competition! www.chillifest-ne.co.uk

BERWICK FOOD & BEER FESTIVAL Now in its 12th Year, the Berwick Food and Beer Festival is taking place from 6 - 8 September, and is a must for anyone interested in great tasting food and beer. Organised by Berwick Slow Food, and held in the magnificent surroundings of the towns 18th Century Barracks, the entrance fee to the festival also grants you access to the museums many informative exhibits.

In addition to over 80 stalls of the finest local and regional produce and beers there is also a selection of wine, gin champagne and cocktails too. There are cookery demonstrations, information stands, an animal farm, foodie films and live music. www.berwickfoodandbeerfestival.co.uk

MORPETH FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Scheduled for 5 and 6 October, it’s still early days but more than 50,000 people attended last year’s event so planning is already under way for the sixth annual event which is sure to be a big attraction in the town. www.moreinmorpeth.co.uk/events/morpeth-food-drinkfestival-2018

CRAFT BEER CALLING

This is to take place from 24, 25, 26 October at Wylam Brewery, Palace of Arts, Exhibition Park, Newcastle.

Craft brewers will run their own bars and visitors will be able to chat to staff about their products. Also promised are a gin palace, a wine cellar, cider, street food and music. www.craftbeercalling.com

NEWCASTLE GIN & RUM FEST

The UK’s largest Gin & Rum Festival tour is coming to Newcastle for the first time. The festival, held at the Civic Centre in Newcastle on 24 and 25 May will showcase over 60 different Gins and 60 different Rums in an amazing venue. A guide will be on hand to showcase you all the products on offer, and their own award-winning resident DJ will keep you entertained, playing music from all genres.

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LOCAL NEWS

SKY TV'S PETE GRAVES UNCOVERS THE REAL LIFE STORIES BEHIND LOCAL NATIONAL LOTTERY FUNDING Northumberland native Pete investigates how ÂŁ5 million of National Lottery funding is spent locally in new online mini-series

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ky TV's Pete Graves, a Northumberland native, has fronted the brand-new mini-series which is all about amazing community projects that work tirelessly to improve the lives of local people across Northumberland. The project, called Untold Stories: Northumberland, films four National Lottery funded projects and looks at the stories behind the incredible people who make them happen, and those who benefit from them. This includes a project from Ashington.

Untold Stories: Northumberland lifts the lid on how National Lottery funding is spent locally to benefit the people of Northumberland. Each of the four short-form documentary-style episodes is dedicated to an initiative that has made a life-changing impact on its local community with the help of The National Lottery.

They include: Blyth Tall Ship, a pioneering project that sees young people in the area recruited to restore an original tall ship whilst gaining valuable engineering skills; Hauxley Nature Reserve, a stunning community space built and run entirely by volunteers; Museums Northumberland's bait, an art project and Hexham Youth Initiative, a safe space for young people across the Hexham area.

The documentaries are presented by Sky Sports presenter, Pete Graves. A passionate Northumberland native, Pete returned home and visited projects funded by the National Lottery to meet some of the driving forces behind each good cause and the everyday people whose lives have been transformed and enhanced since having access to these much-needed resources.

Among those featured in the mini-series are individuals

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who have overcome anxiety, depression and struggles with employment.

Jonathan Tuchner from the National Lottery said: "We are passionate about supporting projects and initiatives that we know have a real, tangible impact on people's lives. Untold Stories: Northumberland sheds a light on the brilliant initiatives - and the local people behind them - that are using National Lottery funding to make a significant difference. " Pete Graves, presenter said: "I am so proud to call Northumberland home - and after visiting each of the incredible projects featured in Untold Stories: Northumberland, I'm even prouder. Having the chance to see first-hand the impact they have on the local community and people's lives, has been brilliant. I hope people across the area are as moved and inspired as I am after watching the series!"

The National Lottery has people at its heart, funding amazing projects that help local people in Northumberland. In 2017, the National Lottery invested more than ÂŁ5 million into local good causes in Northumberland, and since 1994 has funded more than 3,800 in the area, assisting with the enrichment and impacting thousands of lives.

Untold Stories: Northumberland are available across the National Lottery's social channels with a new episode uploaded every week: Facebook: @LotteryGoodCauses YouTube: @LotteryGoodCauses Twitter: @LottoGoodCauses

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LOCAL NEWS

NEXT STAGE OF PLANS FOR ASHINGTON TOWN CENTRE APPROVED Funding has been agreed towards a multimillion pound scheme to transform Ashington town centre.

The council’s Cabinet has approved a £4.6m loan to Advance Northumberland along with a £3m grant, to create a cinema and shopping centre at Portland Park.

A report to Cabinet states: “If developed effectively, it is felt the site has the ability to transform Ashington and... reposition the town as a new retail and leisure led destination, driving footfall to boost the economy.”

The funding will be used by Advance to develop a 17,000 square foot, seven screen cinema. The company has also been able to finalise terms with a major retailer that would deliver a 20,000 square foot retail store with over 100 car parking spaces.

Finally a range of smaller shops will be built to encourage both national and local traders.

The total estimated development budget is £8.6m, the majority of which is funding the development of the cinema. The remaining £1m funding would come from

Artist's interpretation of the cinema site

the sale of the plot to a major retailer.

Ken Dunbar, Managing Director of Advance Northumberland, said: “It’s immensely satisfying for everyone in Advance Northumberland who are involved in bringing this fantastic new mixed development and cinema attraction to Ashington, thereby building on the huge success of Ashington Leisure Centre and supporting the ongoing regeneration of the town.”

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

UNDERSTANDING EMOTIONAL EATING Sarah Howe, Director of 3 Curves fitness facility’s in the North East and a mother of two explains why your emotions may be making you overeat

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o you tend to eat or overeat because you are happy? Sad? Bored? Anxious? Upset or Stressed? You’re not alone. It’s estimated that 75% of overeating stems from our emotions.

From an early age, you may have learned to use food as a way to cope with your feelings. Short-term this may provide relief, but it doesn’t address the root of the problem. And long-term, emotional eating may lead to weight gain because the comfort foods we often choose are high in calories, sugar, salt and fat.

Experts define emotional eating as eating in a response to an emotion, rather than hunger, in order to suppress or pacify emotions. Stress at work, conflict within a relationship, recent health diagnosis, sleep deprivation, family finances, low self-esteem and other situations may lead to emotional eating.

For most people, it’s the day to day stresses in life that lead to emotional eating.

But why do we turn to food for comfort? The comfort foods we choose are foods we associate with pleasurable memories or experiences. This can lead to a vicious cycle – you have a bad day, you eat a bar of chocolate because that’s what you may have been given when you had a bad day at school, guilt sets in, and now you feel like you’ve sabotaged your diet, so you take another bite of chocolate.

But there is good news! You don’t have to turn to food.

With these steps, you can process your emotions in a healthy way without turning to food. It’s time to break this cycle because YOU CAN! Here are some tips to overcome emotional eating.

• Identify what emotion causes you to overeat. At Curves, we call these Cues to identify your triggers that cause you to overeat.

• Before you eat, take a few minutes to understand how you are feeling. Are YOU in control or are your emotions in control? Before you eat, make sure you’re in a good place emotionally.

• Connect with your Community. Remember, 75% of overeating stems from emotions. You’re not alone!

Connect with other women at your local Curves club, 14

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online through the message boards, or call a friend for support, You can also follow myself @buffmammy on Instagram for support Battle Boredom. If you’re feeling bored or lonely, invite a friend to go on a walk with you or go to Curves. Or, grab a good book, watch a funny movie, volunteer in your community, visit a local museum or cultivate a new hobby.

Toss out tempting foods. Create a fresh start for yourself and throw away any comfort foods. There is no reason to test your willpower! Instead, keep healthy snacks on hand like carrots & hummus or celery & cottage cheese.

Exercise regularly. Exercising regularly can actually boost your mood. All the more reason to visit Curves and walk regularly!

Satisfy cravings healthfully. Try making a lower calorie version of your favourite foods. Or, when you’re craving something sweet, choose an option from the Dessert guide on Curves Complete. Simply replace one of your snacks with a dessert choice.

Delay Gratification. Instead of giving into your cravings, drink a glass of water and wait 20 minutes to see if you still want the food. Rather than saying “I can’t have that” use a positive phrase such as “I don’t eat that.” Or, say “later” rather than “never” so that you don’t feel deprived.

Reward your progress healthfully. Buy that new top you’ve been eyeing, invite a friend to a spa or buy a new bike. Reward your weight loss efforts with something other than food.

Get enough Sleep. Sleep deprivation can make it harder to tame your emotions and resist cravings. Aim for 7-9 hours a night of sleep each night.

We have the power to stop emotional eating by taking one step at a time – identify the emotion, find an alternative, and cultivate a new habit. Remember, by understanding what leads to emotional eating, we can take the necessary steps to change it.

For more information on Curves Fitness visit www.curves.eu/uk

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

DON’T LET AN INJURY STOP YOU EXERCISING TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE OF WORKING ON AN INJURY TO IMPROVE IT WITH ADVICE FROM MSK HEALTHCARE & PERFORMANCE CLINIC

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ongratulations to those of you who have secured a place in the 2019 Great North Run, also congratulations to those of you who have stuck to their New Year’s resolution of getting fitter and are still exercising.

As the nights are getting lighter more runners are taking to the streets, training for the GNR, park runs, Blyth 10K or just to get fit and perhaps lose weight.

However, staying injury free over the coming months can be challenging, we are always asked in clinic should I run / exercise if my ankle, knee, back or other joints and muscle are sore. For many the first sign of a niggle or pain can be enough to stop exercising, thinking it will make the problem worst.

It’s not always the case, as a rule, think of a pain scale between 0-10, with 10 being the worst pain ever.

With this is mind, it’s usually fine to run or train whilst the pain is below 4/10 however, if the pain begins to rise then stop once it reaches 4/10, this 0-4 region is an acceptable safe level to exercise and can help aid your own rehab and recovery.

Always wait until the pain receeds back below 4/10 before returning to that exercise, rest up, stretch or find an alternative way to exercise that day that doesn’t provoke pain. The body likes to be challenged this is how 16

we gain strength, lose weight and improve overall fitness but there is a tipping point.

Whether you’re an elite athlete or Sunday morning jogger, injuries can and do occur however, don’t let a simple injury deter you or worst still give you the excuse

“

If we slowly and progressively increase the loads over time the body adapts and handles exercise loads far better, significantly reducing risk of injury.

to stop exercising. Think of the injury as part of your training something that you need to work on to improve it, stopping all exercise seldom aids full recovery. Often the injury lays dormant only to return once you start to increase your exercise again.

Check out our research blog for weekly posts on various injuries and the best way to manage them, you can leave comments or questions www.mskhealthcare.co.uk/blog MSK-Healthcare & Performance Clinic 22 Front Street, Guidepost, NE62 5LT Tel: 01670 813939

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FAMILY DAYS OUT

WITH THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS ON THE HORIZON, WE HAVE PICKED 6 GREAT FAMILY DAYS OUT...

CANNY CRAFTY

Let’s get creative at Canny Crafty in Gosforth, and bring out your kids creative side - and set yours free too!

Visit a family run craft centre for little kids and big kids who love to paint and create. With ceramic painting and

free-play your kids can get all sorts of crafty.

Paint your own pottery is available Tuesday - Sunday, drop-ins are welcome during weekdays and booking is recommended on weekends and during school holidays.

Free-play is great for those who love to get messy, and you won’t have to worry about cleaning up afterwards!

You can get crafting even if you’ve got a baby.

Bring your baby along and get their hand or foot printed onto ceramics. Create a memento that you can cherish when their feet and hands have doubled in size, so you can remember just how tiny they were. The centre also runs occasional workshops so make sure to look out if a new one is coming out soon You can also enjoy locally roasted Pumphrey's coffee or other refreshments plus sweet treats and snacks.

147 Salters Road, Gosforth, NE3 1DU www.cannycraftynewcastle.co.uk

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DINOSAUR ENCOUNTER ADVENTURE GOLF

Dinosaur Encounter is a thrilling 12 hole adventure golf course, complete with roaring and moving dinosaurs, artificial rocks and lush vegetation! All set within a 9,000 square foot site that charmingly recreates the mood of the land that time forgot!

Get your putters at the ready and keep your game face on as you sneak past 10 life size dinosaurs who guard the course! The Brachiosaurus and the Spinosaurus are easy to spot, they’re ones who are moving!

With tropical plants and palm trees, convincing boulders, and an actual waterfall, this is a great place to take kids whether they like golf or not!

And, if you’re tough enough for dinosaurs, you’re tough enough for a bit of drizzle: don’t let the weather put you off! Although they’ll have to close if it gets too treacherous, the course is open in most conditions and the weather rarely affects the quality of the course. If the weather is inclement though, it’s always worth phoning to check if the course is open before you set off.

And whenever you go, go early - because a second round on the same day is half price! So if you’re a sore loser in this morning, why not try and get revenge this afternoon?!

Heighley Gate Garden Centre, Morpeth, NE61 3DA www.golf-attractions.com/dinosaur-encounter-morpeth

BBC NEWCASTLE TOUR Why do some newsreaders only wear one shoe?

Why does the weather forecaster have an earpiece in their left ear, while presenters have theirs in their right? What’s the RATS alarm? Find out all this and more at the BBC Newcastle Tour!

Start your adventure and see what you discover at the hub of the BBC in the North East and Cumbria. Come see where many of the exciting shows you know and love are filmed, including the CBBC's hit shows 'The Dumping Ground' and 'Wolfblood'! There is also a treat for Dumping Ground fans part of the set is here ready for you to dress with props.

Fancy having a go at creating a show yourself, then why not? Get set to explore the whole host of interactive elements in their specially designed studio inviting you to make your episode of Newsround and star in a radio programme or, if you prefer a behind the scenes role, how about trying vision mixing or sound effects?

Broadcasting House, Barrack Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE99 2NE www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/tours/newcastle

SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORT

The Segedunum Roman Fort is the most excavated and developed Fort along the famous Hadrian’s Wall.

The site features a 35m high observation tower providing outstanding views across this impressive World Heritage Site, an amazing back drop for your family photo.

The site now also boasts a large interactive museum showcasing Roman artifacts found in the excavations, ranging from the only known surviving stone toilet seat, to accurate models of the Carpathia (the ship that rescued over 700 of the Titanic ships survivors) and HMS Comus, plus a recreated section of Hadrian’s Wall itself.

You can also step out and explore the Roman Garden and Colliery and, if you’re taking a group, you can book a guided tour.

Buddle Street, Wallsend, NE28 6HR www.segedunumromanfort.org.uk

CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

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FAMILY DAYS OUT...CONTINUED

AIRBOX BOUNCE Airbox Bounce offers terrific trampoline fun for children and adults alike.

The venue is full of interconnected trampolines, angled walls, roll-over platforms, foam pits, battle beams and so much more!

The foam pits, battle beams, Ninja area and angled walls will have you literally bouncing off the walls... Your kids will love this place (and so will you)! There’s even a mini area with soft play and mini trampolines, especially designed for under-5's.

If your child is feeling anxious about making a large jump don’t worry, the patient and friendly staff at Airbox are there to make sure every little bouncer builds the confidence to take the leap and has the best time possible at the trampoline park.

Want to get fit? Warm up on the interconnected trampolines before having a go at wild slamdunk basketball. Then, if you still have energy left, get a good sweat on the cardio wall. Finally, once your workout is complete, take a break at the Box Café and grab a bite to eat and some much needed refreshments.

3 Atley Way, Nelson Industrial Estate, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 1WA www.airboxbounce.co.uk

GREAT NORTH MUSEUM The Great North Museum has lots of exciting and interesting things to do and discover, you can easily spend a few hours here with the kids.

There are a number of fascinating permanent displays covering topics such as Natural Science, World Culture, Archaeology and Geology. Be sure to check out the Living Planet display, which gives you the chance to investigate and study hundreds of cool creatures using a mixture of hands on investigation and interactive touch screens!

There are live animal tanks and displays which are a always a big hit with the smalls and a virtual aquarium, plus full sized models of an elephant and a great white shark!

Learn about Hadrian's wall on a large scale interactive model, see a life sized T Rex dinosaur replica and discover spectacular objects from Ancient Greece, plus there are mummies from Ancient Egypt.

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There are loads of interesting fossils to investigate and one of the largest collections of World Culture items in the North of England, which includes a complete Inuit kayak, a sealskin Parka, and aboriginal religious items and message tokens.

Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4PT www.greatnorthmuseum.org.uk

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Amtico Oslo

FLOORING Looking for the perfect flooring solution for your home? Local flooring experts, michael metcalf carpets explain the benefits of both luxury vinyl tiles and carpet...

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I

n recent decades, the domestic flooring trade has seen the market flooded with Luxury Vinyl Tile products (LVT). The most popular, trusted, and well known of these being produced by two companies, namely Amtico and Karndean.

There has long been an interest in alternatives to carpet, particularly in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entrance hallways from both a practical and an aesthetic point of view. There was a period of time when many people had their original floorboards sanded flat and varnished to produce a natural ambience to their surroundings. This however was found to reduce the warmth and thermal efficiency of their homes and to increase heating bills. Then laminate was introduced which solved this problem, later being replaced with real wood plank installations, and after that, engineered wood.

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Combine the look and feel of wood or stone in combination with the practical benefits of vinyl flooring: warm, durable and sound absorbent.

Certainly over the last twenty years however, the trend and fashion is lending toward LVT. The advantage of this product which is made of tough vinyl is that it can be produced with a massive range of designs and colours to complement anyone's particular chosen style, furniture, or installed kitchen or bathroom. This can be selected either during the process of interior design, or indeed following a decoration or new kitchen due to the vast array of choice and availability.

It was popular up until recently to have these tiles arranged with borders around the perimeter though most installations now are without borders. Luxury vinyl tiles mainly are available in three different configurations, namely to resemble either wooden floorboards, slate, or ceramic tiles. As ceramic tiles too seem to be fading out of fashion to a degree, most present day installations of LVT are in the floorboard format.

The quality of the tiles themselves is determined to a large degree by the thickness of the tough clear vinyl wear layer which covers the coloured layer underneath, and usually a minimum of a 0.50mm wear layer is considered preferable. Amtico is manufactured in the UK and is generally considered to be the toughest and the best choice of vinyl tile. Karndean do not actually manufacture, but as with most other suppliers of these products, source them from the far east. This however does not mean that they are not excellent products, because the manufacturing process is highly regulated due to the market being mainly in the UK and Europe.

What is not usually readily understood by the consumer though, is the absolute importance of the installation process. All Amtico and Karndean products are of a superb standard, and to complement this, both companies insist on strict procedures when it comes to having them fitted in one's home so that they will last for many, many years. Installations often fail due to the trade guidelines being ignored, and incorrect or inferior materials being used under the tiles during the sub floor preparation process.

Your local experts Michael Metcalf Carpets have over 20 years of experience in the installation of Amtico and Karndean. They offer a complete, personal, and free onsite survey and estimate where advice can be supplied and any questions answered. Their installer works to the highest standard possible, and achieves 100% successful customer satisfaction.

In addition to Amtico and Karndean, the showroom at 69 Bridge Street Morpeth, also displays LVT from Distinctive Flooring, another top class company with a beautiful range of modern tile and plank. In all, around 400 variations of colour and design are on display in your local Morpeth high street studio.

Cormar Gemini Carpet

WHY CARPET IS STILL KING While the above products presently reign supreme in kitchen, hallway, bathrooms and toilets, only a few families choose to cover the entire ground floor of their home with vinyl tiles, and almost everyone prefers carpet in the bedrooms. So why is carpet such a dominant floorcovering in the UK? The main consideration is insulation. Carpet with a good quality underlay cannot be beaten when it comes to comfort and warmth, providing a great choice for any home, and they also reduce noise levels. Studies reveal that older people are over three times more likely to suffer a fracture when falling on vinyl floors than if they landed on a carpeted area. Carpet, especially with a good quality polyurethane high density underlay has been shown to help cushion a fall and minimise injuries. It is also for the same reasons, child friendly.

A significant point to note is that wool is naturally flame resistant due to its unique chemical structure which has a high nitrogen and moisture content, and this is one reason why wool carpets are used on cruise ships and in major hotels.

Additionally there has recently been a huge growth in demand for soft, silky, deep pile carpets, and they have become a firm favourite with homeowners. These carpets are even more akin to cushion a fall. Carpet companies have responded to demand in the market for softness underfoot at an affordable price by launching various ranges that can be found at Michael Metcalf Carpets by the manufacturers Cormar, Cavalier, and Associated Weavers.

Michael Metcalf Carpets 69 Bridge Street, Morpeth NE61 1PQ

Tel: 01670 513 868 www.michaelmetcalfcarpets.co.uk 25 25

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH YOUR CHILD’S EYES ARE SPECIAL. IN THE EARLY YEARS, VISION HELPS THEM FIND OUT ABOUT THE WORLD AROUND THEM. R GREEN & PARTNERS OPTICIANS EXPLAIN WHY VISITING AN OPTICIAN IS IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CHILD’S EYE HEALTH

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he majority of us parents are keen to take our children along to see healthcare professionals such as GP’s and health visitors, for the routine checks that are offered, and most will take their kids to visit the dentist from an early age. But what about taking them for an eye test with an optician?

In a survey of 1000 parents 30% admitted to never taking their children to see the optician, despite many being concerned about eye health, and interestingly (worryingly?), about 60% were confident that they would spot warning signs of eye problems themselves.

Children undergo a rudimentary vision check by the health visitor at about 18 months but in many areas there is no other formal screening program. The College of Optometrists identified that fewer than a third of councils offered school eye screening at the recommended age of 4-5 years contrary to national screening guidelines. Here in Northumberland, there is an established vision screening service in place where schoolchildren in this age group are examined by orthoptists and those suspected of having problems are referred either to accredited opticians, or direct to

26

an ophthalmologist, for further assessment.

All children under 16 years of age in the UK are eligible for NHS funded eye examinations and for help with the cost of spectacles through the NHS voucher scheme, so gone are the days of NHS glasses- most opticians will offer spectacles at the voucher value, so free to the child. Good vision is important for social and academic development, and many youngsters with vision problems may not show any outward signs. As is usually the case, many problems are best managed if detected early. The NHS recommends an eye examination for children every two years as a minimum, and there is no lower age limit for them to attend their optician.

Generally, we would recommend a first routine eye examination at about 3 to 5 years of age, but earlier if problems are suspected.

There are some things parents can look out for. An eye appearing to turn in or out, not necessarily all of the time, excessive rubbing of eyes, headache, difficulties with concentration and sitting too close to the TV. Teachers sometimes alert parents when pupils struggle to see whiteboards or OHP’s at school.

If either or both parents have eye problems, particularly if it’s a lazy eye, then their children should

definitely be examined from an early age. However, many youngsters with eyesight problems have no symptoms or family history at all.

Whilst, with very young children, the optician is not going to be able to perform the range of tests normally carried out in an adult eye examination, an assessment of vision, exclusion of squint, estimation of refractive error and an examination inside the eye should all be possible. In other words, enough to identify problems or reassure the concerned parent.

There are things we can all do as parents to help. Encouraging an active lifestyle with at least 2 hours outdoor activity each day, and a sensible diet, are ideal. Limiting screen time, with TV’s, computers, smart-phones and tablets all implicated; there is strong evidence that excessive close work, especially in poor light, encourages eye defects such as short sight (myopia) in young eyes. The best thing to do however, is to take your child for regular eye examinations with an optometrist.

More information can be found at www.aop.org.uk/patients.

R Green & Partners 62 Bridge St, Morpeth NE61 1PQ 01670 513175 www.greenopticians.co.uk

Looking after eyes since 1933, R Green & Partners offer unhurried clinical eye tests for all the family in comfortable fully equipped consulting rooms.

Designer frames and sunglasses from Ray Ban, Ralph Lauren, Armani,Ted Baker, Versace,Tom Ford, Michael Kors and more, we have something for everyone.

We are a Lindberg+ Partner stocking the exclusive Spirit, NOW and Strip ranges of these stylish and iconic frames.

Most types of contact lenses fitted.

COMPLETE SPECTACLES FROM £30 ● VARIFOCALS FROM £75

R GREEN & PARTNERS OPTICIANS 62 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1PQ

FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE OF EYECARE

www.greenopticians.co.uk

●

01670 513175

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LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

CLEARING THE CLUTTER Clutter can have a major impact on health and wellbeing. Cath Hindle helps people regain space and organise their belongings as a professional declutterer and organiser.

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his time last year, Cath Hindle was living a very different life.

The 44 year from Cullercoats explains “I had a busy job, two small children and not much time for anything else.” A period of stress and anxiety forced her to revaluate and use the considerable skills she’d acquired over the past 20 years in organisational and corporate services to her new business Clear the Clutter.

“I used to spend my days delivering change management coaching and support people to move forward and get organised within the business. I still do this but on a much more personal level helping people regain space and organise their belongings as a professional declutterer and organiser.”

Cath started Clear the Clutter last July but thanks to the recent Netflix series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, the concept of decluttering and living with less stuff has really captured people’s interest. Cath says: “I don’t work like Marie Kondo but I do encourage clients to really think if an item creates a positive emotion for them and encourage them to get rid of those that don’t. I also love the way she folds clothes and use that method with clients all the time. “ Cath is a member of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers and has recently completed training with the Senior Move Partnership specialising in helping older

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“

Cath Hindle Clutter creates anxiety when people feel that they are unable to get on top of it or get to the bottom of the pile

people downsize and move. Her clients range from busy families, people who struggle to let things go, small businesses who want clearer workspaces, house movers and anyone looking for support in sorting spaces that have got on top of them.

Clutter isn’t often recognised as a source of stress but it can have a major impact on health and wellbeing. As well as overtaking physical space, clutter can overtake

the mind as it causes the senses to work overtime to try to process what needs to be done. This makes it difficult to focus on tasks.

It causes frustration when items can’t be located quickly or easily and can make people feel guilty or embarrassed that they are not able to “get organised” or invite friends round because of the mess. Clutter creates anxiety when people feel that they are unable to get on top of it or get to the bottom of the pile.

Cath says: “Decluttering and organising is immensely satisfying. Think about how you feel when you’ve had a wardrobe clearout – the sense of satisfaction and pleasure at an organised space and the virtue of being able to hand stuff to a charity shop. I get this everyday working with clients and the feeling grows with each new space we tackle.”

One highlight from the past year has been a partnership with St Oswald’s hospice. “Unless the client supports another charity, the stuff I declutter goes to St Oswald’s.

Each full charity bag raises, on average, £20 for the hospice, so I’m proud to be working with such a worthy cause. It also means that I operate my business very ethically as I always try to find a good home for things rather than sending it to landfill.

Over the next few editions, Cath will be providing decluttering tips and tricks of trade.

For more information visit www.clear-the-clutter.co.uk or contact Cath on 07982044 639, email cath@clear-the-clutter.co.uk

Michael Metcalf Carpets “Because we do it better”

For the finest bespoke service quality carpets and flooring

12

MONTHS INTEREST FREE CREDIT

ON ALL FLOORING & CARPETS

69 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1PQ Tel: 01670 513 868

www.michaelmetcalfcarpets.co.uk

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bedlingtonshire dental practice AFFORDABLE, HIGH QUALITY PRIVATE DENTISTRY

We offer a wide range of treatments including: • Crown and Bridgework

• Smile Makeovers

• Preventive Dentistry

• Denture Services

• Sedation for Anxious Patients • Bleaching • Cosmetic Dentistry

• Implants

• Children’s Dentistry

• Invisalign®

• Quick Straight Teeth

• Emergency Cover

• Late night appointments available 3 days a week • Easy access with ground floor facilities

• Guaranteed registration with the practice • Daily emergency appointments • 24 hour helpline for dental emergencies at home and abroad, for practice plan members

If you’re unhappy with your smile or would like a routine check up, then please call us to arrange an appointment

30 Front Street East, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 5AA

01670 828402

www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

MOUTH ULCERS

By Joanne Duggan, Principal Dental Surgeon at Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice

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would be confident in predicting that just about everyone reading this article will have suffered with a mouth ulcer.

They are usually painful and cause discomfort when eating, talking or brushing our teeth. Although most are uncomfortable, I must warn of an important exception and that is an ulcer associated with the early stages of mouth cancer (squamous cell carcinoma) which is often painless in the early stages. If you have any concerns regarding anything in your mouth it is vital you seek a professional opinion and it is important to visit the dentist regularly for a check-up to make sure your mouth is healthy.

What exactly is a mouth ulcer?

An ulcer is when there is a break in the outer surface of the skin anywhere in your mouth and the sores can look red and yellow/white in colour. Mouth ulcers can range in size, number and symptoms depending on what type of ulcer you have. Mouth ulcers cannot be caught by kissing, or by sharing drinks and cutlery etc.

Are there different type of ulcers?

Yes. There are many different types of ulcers, however, in this article I will discuss the most common ones as some are associated with specific medical conditions and there are also some unusual causes. Viruses, such as the herpes virus, chicken pox, hand foot and mouth disease, can cause ulcerations in the mouth too. Ulcers caused by a virus are different from cold sores.

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Ulcers caused by trauma

Trauma usually causes a single ulcer and you will be able to connect the ulcer to a specific incident. Sometimes the lining of your mouth, lips or tongue can be traumatised by something hard or sharp. For example, if you have broken a tooth or filing, the sharpness can cause a nasty ulcer on the side of your tongue or cheek. Also, if you have an illfitting denture and it is digging into your gum this too can cause a traumatic ulcer. Orthodontic appliances, (braces) can also traumatise the soft lining of our mouths. Once the filling or tooth has been smoothed or repaired, the denture or brace adjusted, the ulcer will heal.

If you have had toothache, then you will certainly know how horrendous it can be, and appreciate why people in sheer desperation will put a pain killer tablet, such as an aspirin, next to the tooth causing the pain. The aspirin tablet however can cause a chemical burn and ulcer on the gum, plus putting the tablet here will not ease the pain.

The good thing about traumatic ulcers is that once the trauma has been removed, the ulcer should heal. It is important for me to stress at this point again that if you have an ulcer that has not healed within 3 weeks then you must report back to your dentist.

Re-occurring ulcers

If you get repeated bouts of ulcers then you may have recurrent aphthous ulcers, or ‘recurrent aphthous stomatitis'.

The cause of recurrent aphthous stomatitis is not known, but they are not infectious. It is a common problem affecting both men and women. The sign of

“

COMMON CAUSES OF MOUTH ULCERS If you have any concerns regarding anything in your mouth it is vital you seek a professional opinion

these recurrent ulcers is the repeated appearance of mouth ulcers in otherwise healthy people. They are more commonly seen in children and young adults.

It is estimated that 1 in 5 people in the UK will suffer from recurrent aphthous ulcers at some time in their life.

Trauma is one of the most common causes of ulcers.

You would know if you had a traumatic ulcer as they are usually single, and are next to the cause of the damage. A traumatic ulcer will heal and go away once the damaging factor has been removed.

The cause of recurrent aphthous ulcers however cannot be attributed to one specific thing. There are potentially a number of factors than can cause them.

Here is a list of some of the possible causes below:

• • •

Are there different types of re-occurring mouth ulcers?

Yes. For simplicity I will break these into 2 categories; minor or major.

Minor aphthous ulcers are the most common and there can be up to 5 or 6 ulcers at a time. They are relatively small, (5 to 9mm in diameter), about the size of the top of a pencil and can occur together in a cluster. They can affect inside the cheeks, the inside of the lips, tongue, floor of mouth and under the tongue. More rarely, they may appear on the roof of the mouth. These minor ulcers usually heal within 10 to 14 days without leaving a scar.

Major aphthous ulcers are more severe as they are larger and take much longer to heal. They can be over a centimetre in diameter, and usually affect the back of your mouth. For example a major aphthous ulcer may be near your tonsil region and be very painful, particularly when you swallow or eat. A major aphthous ulcer can take several weeks to heal and may even leave a scar. Any ulcer that lasts longer than 3 weeks should be checked by your dentist.

• • • • • •

A deficiency in iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, or the vitamin B complex. It is therefore important to try to have a good diet with lots of vegetables and fruit.

Allergy or intolerance to certain foods. Try also to avoid some abrasive foods Irritation to an ingredient in toothpaste called sodium lauryl sulphate, SLS. This is the foaming agent in toothpastes and some patients are very sensitive to it, meaning it causes mouth ulcers.

SLS is also used in other products such as liquid soap or shower gel and can also irritate the skin in some people. You can try to use an SLS free toothpaste. Ask your dentist for specific brands that have enough fluoride in to protect your teeth, (1450ppm fluoride), but no SLS. Feeling tired, stressed or anxious can cause ulcers. For example students may get ulcers before examinations Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or certain time in the menstrual cycle Genes; some families get mouth ulcers more often. There is an increased chance of a child to suffer from recurrent aphthous stomatitis if both parents suffer from them.

Some medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or coeliac disease Medications. Some medications can cause mouth ulcers.

Stopping smoking. People may develop mouth ulcers when they first stop smoking.

Can cancer cause mouth ulcers?

One of the first signs of cancer in the mouth can be an ulcer that does not heal. It is vitally important that you must seek advice from your dentist if you have any ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks. Common areas for ulcers caused by cancer are the sides of the tongue or under the tongue, but they can occur in other parts of your mouth too. That is why your dentist will examine all the soft areas in your mouth at your routine check-up as part of your oral cancer screening. Cancer of the mouth is usually linked to heavy smoking and drinking, but if you are both a drinker and smoker then together the risk of mouth cancer is much, much greater.

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Cold Sores

What should I do if I think I have mouth ulcers?

If an ulcer lasts more than 3 weeks you should always ask your dental team or doctor for advice. Your dental team will be able to examine your mouth to check that the problem is an ulcer and not something more serious.

They may be able to tell you the cause and provide treatment, or they may arrange more tests or refer you to a specialist. If you suffer from ulcers that keep coming and going you should visit your dental team to check there is not an underlying medical cause.

What types of treatment are there for mouth ulcers?

The treatment of ulcers obviously depends on the cause of the ulcers. Traumatic ulcers are easier to resolve as usually all that is needed is to smooth a sharp tooth or adjust a denture.

Most ulcers will heal by themselves; however it is important to keep the area clean with either warm salt mouthwashes or chlorhexidine mouthwash. If your ulcers last for more than 3 weeks, or you are unwell, or the ulcers keep coming back then it is best to see your doctor or dentist. For some of the re-occurring aphthous ulcers then you may be prescribed a pain relieving mouthwash/ spray or steroid tablets/lozenges.

What can you do to prevent mouth ulcers?

You may be able to reduce the risk of mouth ulcers by:

• • • • • •

Keeping your mouth as clean and healthy as possible.

Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables Avoid abrasive foods Avoid acidic foods and drinks, especially fizzy drinks as the ingredient benzoate has been linked to mouth ulcers Use an SLS free toothpaste. Ask your dentist to recommend a SLS free toothpaste if you think you may be sensitive to this foaming agent Visit your dentist regularly

References Lewis MAO, Lamey P-J. A clinical guide to oral medicine. 3rd edition. BDJ Books. 2011 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317984.php https://www.dentalhealth.org/mouth-ulcers https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/ https://www.verywellhealth.com/stages-of-a-cold-sore-outbreak-4173005

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Cold sores are caused by a virus and usually present as a cluster of blisters on the outside of your lips or around your nostrils. Unfortunately once you have had a cold sore the virus will stay with you for life, hiding until it is triggered again. Unlike ulcers, cold sores are extremely infectious so you must be careful as they can be spread by touching, kissing and sharing personal items such as cups and straws.

Here are some other facts about cold sores: •A cold sore usually starts with an itching, tingling or burning feeling •Over the next day or 2 small fluid filled blisters appear •The blisters then burst and will crust over with a scab •A cold sore can appear anywhere on the face but the most common areas are the outside of your lips or nose •A cold sore should start to heal within 10 days, but may be painful while healing •Be careful as cold sores are contagious •There are usually things that trigger cold sore such as a cold, the sun or trauma. Some people will get a cold sore after dental treatment; even if we are very gentle!

•There are some treatments that can help with cold sores, (please ask your pharmacist for further help and advice).

•Antiviral creams can help to ease the pain and irritation caused by cold sores and speed up healing •Start to use the antiviral cream as soon as you feel the tingle or recognise the early signs.

•Antiviral cream may not always work after the blisters appear •Cold sore patches can cover the cold sore and protect the area whilst it is healing

Should I go to the dentist if I have a cold sore?

No, because cold sores are contagious and we do not want the risk of spreading the infection. A cold sore is contagious form the first tingling until it has completely healed. Even when it is crusted over, it is still contagious.

If you have an appointment at your dentist and have a cold sore, you may need to postpone until it has gone.

Your dentist will have their own policy about cold sores so ring to talk to them about it.

To make an appointment at Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice call us on 01670 828 402 or visit 30 Front Street East, Bedlington, Bedlingtonshire Dental Practice Northumberland, NE22 5AA www.bedlingtonshiredental.co.uk

FRENCH CONVERSATION CLASSES FOR ADULTS MORPETH METHODIST CHURCH - THURSDAYS Beginners: 10am - 11.45am

SEATON SLUICE COMMUNITY CENTRE - WEDNESDAYS Improvers: 10 -11.30am

Intermediate: 6.30 - 8.30pm

WHITLEY BAY, BIG LOCAL - TUESDAYS - STARTING IN SEPT ‘19 Beginners: 6.00 - 7.30pm Intermediate/Advanced: 7.45 - 9.15pm WEDNESDAYS - Improvers: 12.30-2pm 10 week course £90 or £10 per session / drop in

Ask about our

Reading Groups

GCSE, A LEVEL & 1 TO 1

PRIVATE TUITION ALSO AVAILABLE

For more information contact:

Barbara 07946 115 256 barbara@linguaforme.co.uk

www.linguaforme.co.uk

35

EATING OUT

‘CATCH’ OF THE DAY FISH AND CHIPS ARE A REAL TREAT, ESPECIALLY AT THE AWARD WINNING PONTELAND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT ‘CATCH’, WRITES RICHARD WILSON

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t is a common misconception, probably based on childhood memories, that fish and chips taste better when eaten at the seaside.

Whilst there are some delightful chip shops and seafood restaurants sprinkled along our glorious Northumberland and North Tyneside coasts, venture inland and you will find a selection of some of the best the North East has to offer.

Being a fish lover myself, and with my wife in tow, I decided to do exactly that, and the restaurant we chose to try was the award-winning Catch seafood restaurant on the outskirts of Ponteland.

Building on the success of the Catch restaurants in West Vale and Holmfirth, Catch Seafood Ponteland is the third Catch restaurant and, as the name suggests, is a dedicated fish and seafood restaurant, located just off the A696 just outside of Ponteland.

Entering through the main glass doors lit by a Catch sign, we were greeted by a host and shown to our table in the restaurant area. The bar and restaurant have a modern PERFECT: Sea bass and beef dripping chips

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contemporary feel with an open glassfronted wine cellar, quirky lighting and a sleeper fronted chrome topped bar.

The menu, as you would expect, is packed with an array of seafood selections, some classic, some very innovative. Although there is the odd non fish dish, if seafood is not to your liking then this menu is probably wasted on you, and vegetarians should certainly seek an alternative venue!

For my starter I chose the King Scallops with roasted chorizo and garlic butter. If asked to describe the dish in one word it would be moreish!

TASTY: King Prawn Battered Scampi

For my main course I ordered from the simply fish section of the menu.

This section allows you to construct the dish yourself, by choosing your fish, 2 sides and a sauce to compliment the dish. My choices were - sea bass, beef dripping chips, spinach, accompanied by a thermidor sauce. Being a fish restaurant, you would expect that to be the star of the show, and it didn’t disappoint, crispy skin and perfectly cooked – the chips were a delight too!

My wife chose the battered king prawn ‘scampi’, served with a fresh

salad, homemade tartare sauce and the same beef dripping chips. Very tasty were has comment on the king prawns (I can vouch for that as my folk did stray to her side of the table more than once) and she agreed with my summary of the chips.

The restaurant area features an open kitchen, so we could watch the chefs at work, carefully preparing our dishes.

We were told that the experienced team source the freshest and finest products from UK ports and pass them directly to the in-house award-winning chefs to create the dishes.

Unfortunately, as I was driving on this occasion, I couldn’t sample anything other than a non-alcoholic beverage but, for those who desire, the drinks list includes a range of specially selected wines, spirits, beers, ales and seasonal cocktails to complement your meal.

If you do want to make it an extended stay, or you are celebrating a special occasion, there are 5 large guest rooms available. The rooms, reminiscent of a Hamptons beach house, offer King-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, two rooms even feature a roll top bath!

On the whole we found the restaurant décor and atmosphere very pleasant, and the food a delight.

Although the menu is not cheap, we both agreed it was excellent value for money. So, what’s the catch? On our visit we couldn’t find one!

Catch Seafood A696, Higham Dykes NE20 0DH www.catchseafood.co.uk Tel: 01661 881 440

CHOPPINGTON SOCIAL WELFARE CENTRE

Pilates Class

Every Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm with Gill Glass

Certified Pilates Instructor Pilates, Level 3

Football Coaching

for Year 1 kids - boys & girls Starting on the 3rd March at 9.30am

We are looking to form some under 7 teams for next season. It will be free of charge at Choppington Social Welfare Centre. Experienced Coaches on hand who are all DBS checked.

Refreshments Hot & Cold available from on site CafĂŠ.

Sequence Dance Group

Sunday & Tuesday 7pm - 10pm

Come along & enjoy an evening in the company of a lovely friendly group of people.

Line Dancing

Monday, Friday & Saturday 7pm to 10.30pm

Come along and Line Dance to traditional music or dance to the latest pop music.

Veteran Snooker Teams Players Wanted!

Wansbeck Voices Choir

Meet every Thursday 7.00 till 9.00pm

Carpet Bowls

Wednesdays 7pm to 9.30pm Joyce & Alec are looking for new members to come along & enjoy the company of their bowls group.

For more information on these groups & all the other activities taking place in the Centre

Call Neal on 01670 822028 or email: neal@choppington.org

Fernlea Drive, Scotland Gate, Choppington NE62 5SS www.choppington.org 37

The

3D Cakery

Cakes made for all occasions

Let us create that special cake for that special occassion Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings etc.

Cake Decorating Equipment & Consumables.

Cake Boards, Cake Boxes, Icing, Food Colouring etc.

The 3D Cakery Hirst Yard, Viewlands, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9AF

Tel: 01670 812852

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www.the3dcakery.co.uk

margaret@the3dcakery.co.uk

seafood restaurant

What’s the Catch?

2 for £15 Fish & Chips served 12-6pm

‘Daily Catch’ Menu

2 courses for £16 3 courses for £20

Weekend Specials Sunday Menu including Traditional Roasts 12-8pm Breakfast 8-11am

Classic Wine List ‘Simply Gin’ Menu Weekly Cocktails

5 En-suite Rooms

DBB Packages Available A696, Higham Dykes NE20 0DH

01661 881440

ponteland@catchseafood.co.uk

OPENS

2019 Gents Spring Open.

Sunday 12th May, Texas Scramble 4 man Team. £40.00 per team.

Ladies Open.

Monday 2nd September, Team of 3 Stableford, £30.00 per team.

Gents Open.

Sunday 9th June, 4BBB Stableford, £20.00 per pair.

Seniors Open.

Tuesday 10th September, Texas Scramble Team of 4, £40.00 per team. (55yrs or older)

Seniors Open.

Tuesday 11th June, 4BBB Stableford £20.00 per pair (55yrs or older) Ladies Open.

Monday 22nd July, Texas Scramble, £40.00 per team of 4 Mixed Open.

Saturday 17th August, Greensomes, £22.00 per pair.

1st Prize 3 night self-catering stay in one of our luxury holiday homes, For up to 6 persons.

Plus prize vouchers.

Gents Open.

Sunday 6th October, Combined Pairs Stableford £20.00 per pair,(both scores to count) All prize vouchers paid out are open vouchers, and can be spent at any PGA Golf shop.

Golf society packages from £24.00 per person call for details

BURGHAM, Nr FELTON, NORTHUMBERLAND NE65 9QP E : burghamparkgolfclub@gmail.com W : www.burghamparkgolfclub.co.uk T : 01670 787898 (OPTION 1)

39

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TRADITIONAL FOOD AT IT’S BEST

We visit The Cherry Tree Bar & Grill in Stakeford to sample some home cooked dishes

F

orgoing the regular homemade sandwich, I decided that I would take a break from the usual lunchtime routine, and venture to the Cherry Tree in Stakeford for a midweek treat, with a work colleague in tow.

The Cherry Tree has been run by the Turner family since 2003, and currently Alex, Liz, Ryan and Scot oversee the running of the pub.

The pub is situated on Stakeford Lane, the main road linking Stakeford to GuidePost, meaning it is easy to find, and there is plenty parking in their large car park. Once inside, we were both very impressed by what is a modern yet homely local pub. The venue is airy with a relaxed laid-back atmosphere, with a very spacious lounge and conservatory area for diners, flowing through in an open planned layout to a bar area and a second conservatory area playing host to a pool table, dart board and more seating for diners and drinkers to mix.

Scot Turner is the head chef, and his menu is refreshingly not over crowded, leaning to traditional English dishes with offerings from the grill aplenty. There are light

GENEROUS: The ribeye steak

bites, lunchtime snacks and a range of breakfast options. I was also informed that most dishes are made, where possible, from locally sourced ingredients, a big thumbs up from us.

My choice from the menu was the ribeye steak, served with a generous portion of home-made chips, onion rings, peas, mushrooms and tomatoes, whilst my colleague selected Gammon steak. He was very pleasantly surprised when, asked would he like egg or pineapple, he was given a rather unusual third option – or BOTH! I was shocked when he chose option number three, very out of character for him!

The presentation of both dishes was well thought out, not your average pub grub plates! The chips were a throwback to my childhood days, when ‘chips were chips’, and almost stole the show! I say

almost as my steak was absolutely delicious. Perfectly cooked (medium) and full of flavour.

My colleague gave similar feedback to his Gammon – but I did have to try it for myself too, (purely in the interests of research you understand!) and I had to agree with him – very nice!

Being a midweek lunchtime, and with the main dishes being very hearty in taste and generous in size, we both thought it wise to skip dessert on this occasion - this article won’t write itself you know!

Stepping outside into the midafternoon sun, my only regret was that I had to return to work, and couldn’t stay for one of their mouthwatering desserts! Oh well, on a positive note, I am only 10 minutes’ drive away - perfect distance for a taxi journey for our next visit so we can make it an extended one and add some liquid refreshments to our tab!

The Cherry Tree Bar & Grill Riversdale Avenue, Stakeford, NE62 5JZ Tel: 01670 853 380 Facebook: Cherry Tree Bar & Grill

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Tel: 01670 820 222

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Not Just Travel (Agency) Ltd is a division (or trading name) of Hays Travel Ltd. 25 Vine Place, Sunderland. Company Reg 1990682.

Agents for ATOL Holders. Members of ABTA - Number K9413" Prices are correct at the time of going to print and are subject to change

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WHITLEY JEWELLERY & ANTIQUES LTD Proprietors Philip & Linda Stephenson

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LOCAL EVENTS

ASHINGTON

EVENTS ASHINGTON MAY FAYRE

Thursday 9 till Monday 13 May The Fayre will take place on the Hirst Welfare field next to Ashington Community Football Club. here will be funfair rides for the whole family as well as food and refreshments.

Alexandra Rd, Ashington NE63 9EL

ASHINGTON FAYRE DAY

Sunday 30 June The Fayre will take place at the rear of Wansbeck Square, on the car park and grassed area, and will include fairground rides, live music, market stalls and a range of family entertainment.

ASHINGTON TO ROCK ON NORTHUMBERLAND DAY

Sunday 26 May Northumberland Day 2019 will take place on and to celebrate there will be a day of great live music at the White House Unique Social Club, commencing at 1pm.

Top local bands KSVT, Percy & the Piglets, Growing Robots, Sticky Fingers, The Djooks and Cushion Creepers will all be performing at the event.

The event has been organised by local man John Emery with support from Ashington Town Council.

This is the third event John has organised to mark the day. Tickets are now available, call 01670 814 091 White House Social Club, Ashington, NE63 8PD

NORTHUMBERLAND MINERS’ PICNIC Saturday 8 June The Picnic is a jam-packed day out for all the family at Woodhorn Museum and is rooted in our local heritage with a contemporary twist.

The programme this year includes Brass Marras, The Northumbrian Ranters, pit-pop folk-rockers Dennis, Ladies of Midnight Blue and special headline act Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze.

The Picnic commences with the poignant Miners’ Memorial Service at 10.30am. There will be family friendly activities throughout the day including an art tent, circus skills and face painting. Discover some of the region’s tastiest treats and unique crafts in the Northumberland Picnic Market which will be located in the historic Workshop Galleries. Event is free, but parking charge applies.

Woodhorn Museum, Queen Elizabeth II Country Park, Ashington, NE63 9YF

VINTAGE CAR RALLY

Sunday 14 July Enjoy a grand day out at Woodhorn Museum’s Vintage Car Rally. The North of England Classic and Pre War Automobiles (NECPWA) club will be back at Woodhorn with their amazing array of classic cars.

Enjoy viewing the cars, taking your picture with them and meeting the owners!

Visit museumsnorthumberland.org.uk/whats-on for details Woodhorn Museum, Queen Elizabeth II Country ParkAshington, NE63 9YF

DOG SHOW & PARTY

Sunday 4 August The event, organised by Heart of the Hirst Tenant & Residents Group and will run from 10am till 4pm.

There will be 16 categories for the Dog Show at a cost of £2 per category.The event will also include market stalls, bouncy castle, refreshments and a children’s face painter. For more information on the event or to get involved please find Heart of the Hirst on Facebook Hirst Park, Ashington NE63 9BA

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45

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

RACHEL TO TOP THE BILL A

shington & District Male Voice Choir is delighted to announce that it’s giving a Northumberland up and coming young soprano the opportunity to ‘star’ in its forthcoming Annual Celebration Concert.

Rachel Bird is a 20 year old from Hexham and is currently studying music at Durham University and her reputation encouraged the choir to invite her to be its special guest at its concert on Saturday 18th May in Holy Sepulchre Church Ashington.

The choir, under the direction of Neil Morton and accompanied by Derek Brett, will perform a wide range of songs of different genres many new to the recently used repertoire with Rachel bringing her exciting singing into the program.

Rachel spent six years as a member of the National Youth Choir of Great Britain performing in many of

the nation’s leading venues including the Royal Albert Hall before taking up her studies in Durham University where she is a member of the Durham Opera Ensemble. Most recently she was a featured soloist in the recording of Ben Parry’s latest piece ‘One Equal Music’. Ashington & District Male Voice Choir is looking forward to its Annual Celebration Concert and having Rachel as its special guest.

The choir loves singing in Holy Sepulchre Church, which it sees as its ‘Home Base’ having had so many concerts and other events in the church. There is always a warm welcome from the vicar and members of the church and usually a large knowledgeable audience and it is hoped that this will be the case for the return visit on May 18th.

Tickets will be £7 and will be available from choir members or the secretary, telephone 01670

815534, Holy Sepulchre Church, Al’s Superstore, Station Road Ashington, and you can pay at the door.

Full details of all the choirs activities can be found on www.ashingtonmalevoicechoir.org and on Facebook.

New members are always welcome at Ashington & District Male Voice Choir. Go along and give them a try on Thursdays at 7.00pm in Stakeford & Bomarsund Welfare.

Ashington & District Male Voice Choir

Annual Concert With Special Guest

Soprano – Rachel Bird

Saturday May 18th 7.00pm at The Holy Sepulchre Church, Ashington NE63 8HZ Tickets £7 Available From Holy Sepulchre Church, ADMVC Choir Members, Al’s Superstore ADMVC Secretary Colin Prow Tel 01670 815534 Or Pay On The Door 46

FITNESS · FOOD · FRIENDS

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Langdale Drive, Cramlington NE23 8EH *Purestretch

CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE IN: BLYTH, SEATON BURN, SEATON SLUICE AND WHITLEY BAY

To find out more or to book a class, contact Liz on 07982 126 113 or email liz.ford@glow-fit.co.uk Glow Northumberland & Tyneside

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GIVE SOMEONE POWER OF ATTORNEY… BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE Lasting Powers of Attorney are invaluable documents as part of the overall planning of your estate as managing your financial affairs can become more difficult as you get older. If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to mental incapacity and they have not made a valid Enduring or Lasting Power of Attorney, their assets will be frozen as no one (including their spouse and children) has the authority to deal with them.

At this point someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as the person’s Deputy. The Court will then authorize the Deputy to deal with the person’s affairs in a certain manner. This is a very time consuming (around 6 months) and expensive (in the region of £1,750) process. This situation can be simply avoided through the making of a Lasting Power of Attorney.

By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can decide whom you would like to manage your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so either due to physical or mental incapacity.

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney that can be made, one dealing with your property and financial affairs and the other dealing with your personal welfare.

Personal Welfare

This power gives your attorney the authority to make decisions regarding your healthcare and medical treatment.

Property and Affairs

This power enables your attorney to deal with your bank accounts and your property. This includes decisions in relation to selling or renting your property, paying your bills, applying for benefits you are entitled to and all aspects of dealing with your bank accounts, savings and investments.

48

All work we undertake is at fixed fees: Single Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney: £300 inclusive of VAT Double Property and Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney (suitable for couples): £420 inclusive of VAT Single Will: £120 inclusive of VAT Mirror Will: £156 inclusive of VAT It is imperative that specialist advice is taken in order to ensure that the power given accurately reflects your wishes.

Call Crichton Wills Trusts & Probate on 01670 514772 and speak to a specialist adviser today who will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have and offers a free no obligation appointment in the comfort of your own home.

55 Beaumont Court, Pegswood, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1BF

Price of Family Trust ÂŁ1,620 (inc. VAT)

49

Introducing Team Sublime Come & join us in our warm friendly salon where we can we cater for your needs

We have a new stylist, Faye Jones in the salon as well as an independent make up artist - KBeautique and a independent beautician - Style Beautique by Rachel!

Owner & Stylist Chloe

Junior Stylist Megan

Junior Stylist Price List Blow Wave £13 All over colour £32 Roots £28 Curls £10

New Stylist Faye Jones

Stylist Corrie Dodds

Beautician

Make Up Artist KBeautique

Style Beautique

by Rachel Waxing, Dermaplaning, Nails, Spray Tan, Eyebrow Tinting, Lash Lifts

Tel: 07736 246 654

www.kbeautique.co.uk

Tel: 07759 738 962

SUBLIME HAIR 50

Tel: 01670 840 427 192 Hawthorn Road, Ashington, NE63 9AU

NOW R C EATING YOUR E P RFECT BEDROOM

KITCHEN • BATHROOM • TILE

Brilliantly Simple...Simply Brilliant Signature Kitchens, Bathrooms & Tiles have been providing customers with quality kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, flooring and tiles for over ten years.

Offering a unique combination of superb products, expertise and unmatched customer service, we bring you the home of your dreams, whilst making the transformation a painless process For every project, we have an experienced team and a generation of experience; this successful formula shows in the results. ● FAMILY RUN BUSINESS ● FREE 3D PLANNING & DESIGN ● TILING, ELECTRICS & PLASTERING ● SUPPLY OR INSTALLATION ● FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT OF YOUR DREAM KITCHEN OR BATHROOM

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See our display at F.E.Maughan in Whitley Bay BASINS | TOILETS | SHOWERS | FIXTURES | FITTINGS | PLUMBING ACCESSORIES

Signature @ F.E.Maughan 40 Park Avenue, Whitley Bay, NE26 1DQ Tel 0191 340 9452 51

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

GROW YOUR OWN With the increased interest in self sufficiency and organic produce, it’s a great time to try growing your own fruit and veg at home. Here’s some tips on how to start from PlantsPlus Garden Centre...

W

e’ve said it before and we’re going to say it again - growing fruit and veg is IN!

No longer associated with those in the countryside or who are naturally green fingered, GLEE 2018 (Garden, Leisure & Equipment Exhibition) referenced a study that revealed 43% of gardeners under 40 grow their own vegetables compared to 32% of over 60s. The benefits far surpass just having food on the table: You can keep it organic; it’s not space dependant; it’s healthy, both the physical nature of the task and the freshest nutrients you could put in your body; it’s educational and fun for all ages.

SIZE DOESN’T MATTER

Urban gardeners are bringing grow-your-own into the 21st century which means there are plenty of creative ways to plant and harvest them, even if you have limited space. So forget about thinking that you need a large patch of ground in a garden or an allotment, you can get started now even if you live in a small apartment.

START WITH HERBS

If you‘re having your first thoughts about dabbling in grow-your-own but are daunted about where to start,

52

“

When you pick that first juicy, red tomato, you’ll be hooked!

” Nursery Production Manager, Mark ensures that the PlantsPlus Nursery is bursting with colour.

begin with herbs. They’ll be perfectly happy by your kitchen window and if you look after them well instead of treating them as disposable, they will keep rewarding you for months to come - trimming them will actually encourage more growth. Whilst they may look tropical with their bright and sculptural fruit, chilli plants can thrive on sunny window sills too!

DO A SWAP

Swap the flowers in your patio planters or window boxes for vegetables. Grow all of your salad greens in one container such as lettuce, spring onions rocket and spinach. Planted away from the ground you’ll have less problems waith pests such as slugs and snails, and if they’re on a balcony you’ll definitely not catch any rabbits or deer having a nibble of them!

Although great for restricted spaces, just be aware that smaller containers will need more watering. If you want to make things even easier, there are ranges of self watering systems on the market such as easy drip systems that you can place in your pots to relieve the fear of over or under watering your crops.

JUST DO IT!

We’ve saved our best tip for last and it’s a tried and tested one that works for most people… buy some seeds or some starter veg and just have the confidence to put them in the ground and give grow-your-own a shot. Like everything else, practice makes perfect and when you finally pick that first juicy, red tomato from your window planter and taste how much more flavoursome they are compared to the supermarkets, you’ll be hooked!

Nothing will beat being able to plate up the rewards of your own hard work.

Find out what is currently filling up Plantsplus Garden Centre’s nursery:

1LTR FUCHSIA POTS

New in this year, Southern Bell variety

£3.99 or 3 for £10

OSTEOSPERMUM African Daisy

£3.99 or 3 for £10

IMPATIENS Busy Lizzie

6 pack £2.99 or 4 pack £10

FOXGLOVES £12.99

Find more seasonal gardening tips from our team on our website, or sign up for our monthly newsletter in-store where you’ll also receive exclusive vouchers and Reward Card member events.

Plantsplus Garden Centre, Berwick Hill Road, Seaton Burn, NE13 6BU Tel: 01661 824631 www.plantsplusgardencentre.co.uk

53 53

LOCAL NEWS

THE PITMAN PAINTINGS EXCLUSIVE TO WOODHORN MUSEUM Only at Woodhorn Museum, in Ashington, can you see the stunning Ashington Group Collection of work.

Spring special offer price of £25 (normally £35) If you are looking to add length to your natural nails then look no further than gel nail enhancements which can last up to 3 weeks and with regular infills will last a lot longer.

Be rest assured that we only use the award winning higher quality top brand of creative nail design (CND) therefore our products are much kinder to your skin , minimising the effects of damage to the natural nail.

Please call 01670 733700 or message us to book an appointment .

Also available Siena X spray tans Waxing Hot stone massage Reflexology Indian head massage Eye lash lifting And many many more treatments

Aesthetics Facial Special spring offer

CND GEL NAIL ENHANCEMENTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AT OUR SALON !!!

performances in the North East and the National Theatre in London. In September 2010, New York audiences too were enthralled by the story when it opened on Broadway! Since then the play has run in the West End of London and has enjoyed a second national tour of the UK and there have been performances around the world including the US and New Zealand.

Today the Ashington Group is acclaimed worldwide, yet back in the 1930s none of them would have dreamed that a few evening classes would bring them such fame and international attention.

The Ashington Group Collection is on permanent display at Woodhorn Museum, Wednesday to Sunday from 10am till 5pm, in a dedicated gallery with the support of the Ashington Group Trustees.

For more information visit www. museumsnorthumberland.org.uk/woodhorn-museum/ event/the-ashington-group-gallery

U

This unique collection of more than 80 paintings was compiled by the original members of The Group themselves over many years. They felt the paintings represented the very best of their work.

The Group largely made up of coal miners (or pitmen as they are known), first came together in 1934 through the Workers Education Association to study 'something different' - art appreciation. In an effort to understand what it was all about, their tutor Robert Lyon encouraged them to learn by doing it themselves.

What they produced was fascinating and if a picture paints a thousand words, these pitmen's paintings speak more eloquently than any photograph. They captured every aspect of life in and around their mining community, above and below ground, from the scenes around the kitchen table and in the allotment to the dangerous and dirty world of the coal face.

This amazing story of The Ashington Group inspired the wonderful play by Billy Elliot writer, Lee Hall.

‘Pitmen Painters’ has received rave reviews for sell-out

derm

Us k i n c a r e

This facial system combines thermotherapy, microdermabrasion, microcurrent, ultra sound and cryotherapy to give the ultimate facial which helps to target the signs of ageing, lift muscle tissue, improve pigmentation & brighten dull skin to reveal a fresh & smooth complexation.

Nu-Derm skincare care facial can also help in the treatment of acne, killing off the bacteria that causes it using L.E.D blue light therapy.

Full 6 in 1 Nu-Derm Facial £35

(Normally £45)

Course of 4 Nu-Derm Facials £140

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Course of 8 Nu-Derm Facials £280 (Normally £360) A course of treatment is recommended to get best results.

To book a free consultation please call 01670 733700

Holistic Health & Beauty 18 Clifton Road, Cramlington NE23 6TG 54

Kitchen Xchange Ltd MADE TO MEASURE KITCHENS & BEDROOMS DIRECT FROM OUR FACTORY A warm welcome from Kevin & the team

OW LE N

ON

SA

We are a family business who design and build kitchens and bedrooms to meet our customers individual tastes and specifications.

At Kitchen Xchange you will find a large well presented showroom with all you need to create your dream kitchen or bedroom. Visit our showroom or give us a call and you will deal direct with us, no middlemen and no sales targets to hit, this way we find out what you the customers want. Our made to order kitchens and bedrooms are made in our factory, meaning savings we make can be passed directly onto our customers.

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www.kitchenxchange.co.uk OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 - 4:30PM SATURDAY 9:00 - 12:00PM 55

Going into residential care has worked perfectly for me. Eothen Homes offers the ideal balance of independence and support.

Pauline Collett Resident at Eothen, Whitley Bay

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57

LOCAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

LOOK & FEEL GOOD FROM HEAD TO TOE ASHINGTON SALON, THE HEAD GARDENER HAS ALL OF YOUR HAIR AND BEAUTY NEEDS COVERED FROM HEAD TO TOE

W

e’re all familiar with the feeling you get when you’ve just stepped out of a salon with a fabulous new haircut, shiny manicure or a pampering treatment and you feel fantastic. If you’re in need of such a pick me up, The Head Gardener, in the heart of Ashington, has all aspects of hairdressing and beauty available in their salon to make you feel brand new.

Salon owner Danielle Pringle took over the salon in 2016, having worked for the company for 5 years, and with 17 years’ experience in the industry altogether.

After moving the salon to the premises next door, Danielle increased and improved the services available, as well as offering more comfortable and intimate surroundings.

The salon offers all aspects of hair cutting, colouring and styling, for both men and women at reasonable prices, as well as children’s hair cutting for all ages.

As well as an extensive range of hair services, the salon is proud to offer a range of beauty services from Beauty by Becca. Fully qualified beautician Rebecca Smith has worked in the beauty business for 10 years, and within The Head Gardener since 2015.

58

A CUT ABOVE: The salon is modern and comfortable

“

As well as an extensive range of hair services, the salon is proud to offer a range of beauty services too

She’s passionate about her job, and strives to give the highest quality of service to all her customers.

A wide range of treatments are available, from manicures and gel polishes to waxing, tinting, and lash extensions. If you are looking for something more relaxing, there are a range of facials and massages, all performed in her comfortable treatment room, guaranteed to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Rebecca also offers the new beauty trend of microblading, which is a semi-permanent treatment that transforms sparse eyebrows with hair like strokes of pigment. Enquire for details.

If you want to be your own boss in 2019 then the Head Gardner could provide you with the perfect platform. The salon are currently offering chair rental to self-employed, self-motivated hair stylists with experience and their own clientele. This is the perfect opportunity for a stylist to become their own boss in a flourishing local salon with a fantastic reputation.

The salon also has a therapy room currently available for rental. The room is suitable for all alternative therapies including aesthetics (Botox/ Fillers), reflexology, reiki, healing, hypnotherapy, holistic therapies, tattoo artist etc. The one exception to this is a beauty therapist as the salon already has Rebecca providing her wide range of beauty treatments. For further details on both of the above please ring 07714 398588.

So, if you’re in need of a new look or some pampering, The Head Gardener really has everything you need, all under one roof.

The Head Gardener, 63 Station Road, Ashington NE63 8RU Tel: 01670 818123 Beauty by Becca Tel: 07790 986241

MICROBLADING: The perfect solution for sparse brows

SPACIOUS: After moving premises, the salon is now able to offer a wider range of services 59

LOCAL NEWS

NORTH SHIELDS FISHERMEN’S HERITAGE COMMISSION BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE

By Charlie Steel

I

t is a fact that commercial fishing is the UK’s toughest and most dangerous peacetime occupation.

With approximately 12,000 fishermen in the UK, there is evidence that fatal injuries to crews of commercial fishing vessels still remains high.

Over the years, many fishermen have sailed beyond the piers of the River Tyne, never to return. They have ventured far into the North Sea fishing grounds and beyond, to provide a living for their families and the community, but many have sadly paid with their lives for what really is ‘The true price of fish’. Until recently, North Shields was one of the few major fishing ports in the UK that did not have a dedicated Fishermen’s Memorial, and as a result, the North Shields

MEMORIAL: ‘Fiddlers Green’ sculpture on North Shields Fish Quay

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Fishermen’s Heritage Project was created early in 2015.

Their main objective was to raise funds to erect a permanent memorial sculpture to those fishermen who lost their lives at sea whilst promoting the long tradition and history of the Fishing industry on which the town of North Shields was founded.

Massive public support was shown and following an appeal, donations and contributions soon flooded in from the local community and local businesses.

With the help and support of North Tyneside Council, a suitable site on the foreshore near the Fish Quay was identified for the placement of the memorial which was unveiled in a public ceremony on 24th September 2017.

The memorial represents a lone fisherman sitting on a mooring bollard reflecting in thought. The site on which it stands has since become known as ‘Fiddlers Green’, which in 19th-century maritime folklore was a mythical place where mariners and fishermen who served their time at sea enjoyed an afterlife of dancing and merriment.

The North Shields Fishermen’s Heritage Project are continuing their work, and in order to build on their success, and complement the memorial sculpture, they have recently commissioned a Book of Remembrance, which is dedicated to those fishermen who have worked out of North Shields and lost their lives at sea.

The book also makes ample provision for those Fishermen who have retired from the industry and passed away whilst ashore. The book will take a similar format to the Remembrance Books displayed in local Cemeteries, with each entry being individually inscribed by local calligraphers.

All entries in the book will eventually form a historical record for future generations which will be on permanent display later this year in the ‘Discover North Tyneside’ section (Local Studies Library) at North Shields Customer First Centre.

Applications for entries in the book are now being invited from all members of the public who may have had a relative or loved one that has worked as a fisherman and sailed beyond the piers of the River Tyne.

If you would like to be part of this initiative, we would love to hear from you.

Application forms are available from the Discover North Tyneside section (Local Studies Library) at North Shields Customer First Centre, Northumberland Square, North Shields, NE30 1QU or by contacting the North Shields Fishermen’s Heritage Project on; 07810 546162 or 07505 100333 or by Emailing; ccz18@hotmail.co.uk

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