Issue 78 - January 2020
Your favourite PRICELESS community magazine
What’s Inside Feat ured Ar t i cles Win aMarket Lumley Darlington to 29 Castle break be graced with new exhibition space
Places to go: Frankfurt
34
47 What’s on this month LOCAL BUSINESSES
New Year, New Decade, welcome to 2020!
LOCAL EVENTS COMPETITIONS Darlington Monthly is proudly sponsored by
COMMUNITY NEWS WHAT’S ON Darlington’s oldest and widest-distributed community magazine
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
20%
IVE ASS NTS
N TO N U O S DISC UTTER SH
M COU & DIS OOD OD W ON UX WOANS FA NETI VE
NEW SHOWROOM
NOW OPEN
Visit us at 65 YARM LANE, STOCKTON, TS18 3DU 37 years of experience in the blinds industry Manufacturing & supply of made to measure blinds Huge range of blinds including vertical, roller, roman venetian, shutters and we offer soft furnishing!
DARLINGTON 01325 240 605 2
STOCKTON
01642 861 166
SPENNYMOOR 01388 741 252
MOBILE: 07830 341 665
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Yorkshire Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50 sq ft of boarding and a light all fully fitted in less than a day from just £277 + VAT. But it’s not just the affordability of the package the company offers that makes Yorkshire Loft Ladders stand out as manager Warren Ingleson explains: ‘Our watchwords are Quality,
Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and Value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we got a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.
lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, however big or
small, call Warren on 0800 612 8359 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!
At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers
3
Please mention Darlington Monthly when contacting advertisers
Welcome to the January edition of Darlington Monthly! Following the fun of Christmas and the excitement of seeing in the New Year, we’ve kicked off 2020 with a selection of local highlights for you to enjoy throughout January. Starting with a look at Durham Gala Theatre and Cinema’s focus on the Exhibition on Screen series, which you can read about on page 12, we then break down other cultural highlights on offer throughout the month on page 47. We’ve also reviewed the latest addition to the Jumanji franchise, on page 46, which you can see at cinemas across the region this month. And why not also have a go at the monthly competition to win free tickets to a screening of your choice? And if you’re thinking of a city break early this year, take a look at what Alex Nelson made of his recent venture to Frankfurt, including places to go and details of local travel in the city. With plenty of local businesses inside also welcoming in the New Year, you may find just what you’re looking for, at a price worth another celebration! From everyone here at Darlington Monthly, Happy New Year!
Findley Roofing & Building proudly sponsors this month’s edition of Darlington Monthly. As the UK’s largest and most trusted roofing and building specialists, Findley’s skilled and seasoned professionals offer a Free Roof Health Check to all customers, and a whole host of other expert services for improving, protecting and maintaining your home. So, don’t hesitate to turn to them for all of your roofing and construction requirements at the start of 2020! Visit www.findleyroofing.co.uk or call 0191 417 3422 for advice and a free quote.
Available to read online Visit darlingtonmonthly.co.uk /DarlingtonMonthly
Competitions
@DarlingtonMonthly
12 22 34 46
Disclaimer... Whilst we take every care to ensure accuracy in this magazine, we regret that we cannot accept responsibility for any incorrect information. All advertisements are accepted in good faith as to their veracity and we are not responsible for views expressed by contributors or other sources. The copying of any material within this publication is strictly forbidden without the publishers or Studio Managers consent. By providing your email address and entering our competitions you agree to receive email communications from the competition sponsor/prize provider.
Congratulations to last month’s competition winners, all winners have been notified. Winners are selected at random. The provider will only receive the details ofTo winning entries inContact order to fulfil completion of the prize. Email: sales@darlingtonmonthly.co.uk Tel: 01325 776225 Advertise Darlington Monthly
FURNITURE CLEARANCE OUTLET PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
ROCK BOTTOM PRICES - NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE
£251
£74 Hexham Oak Ladder Back Chair Wooden Seat
Was: £109
Salisbury Rustic Oak 2 Over 4 Chest
Was: £449
Was: £1949
Versailles Oak Round Extending Dining Table
Was: £759
£1169
£79
£1269 Dolce 3 Seater Recliner Italian Sofa
£515
Brancepeth TV Unit ONLY 30 AVAILABLE
Was: £199
Tancredi Perugia 3 Seater Italian Leather Sofa
Was: £2650
HURRY OVER £100,000 WORTH OF STOCK MUST GO IMMEDIATELY!
OFFICIAL CLEARANCE OUTLET FOR @Furniture Clearance Outlet
DON’T MISS OUT! CALL US ON: 0800 140 4665 OR VISIT US: Unit 5, Harvey Court, Low Willington Industrial Estate, Willington, County Durham, DL15 0FB 5
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
38 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Design Planning Installation We offer styles to suit every taste from traditional and homely to sleek and contemporary, showcased in our showroom in the Old Church Hall. As each project is unique, we complete a FREE home survey to get an idea of your wish list and measurements. This is used to create your FREE tailor made design, using the latest inhouse rendering software back in our design studio, to help you visualise your project from concept into reality.
Affordable Home Improvements We tailor for all budgets and offer fair prices all year round. From makeovers to full projects, we specialise in the full package, project managing every element from start to finish. Our professional installers have excellent attention to detail so you can be sure to expect a fit and finish to the highest standard. 6
Visit Our Showroom Pop in and chat with our friendly and professional team about what we can offer you. We have over 38 years’ experience helping people across the North East achieve their dream home.
We’re open: Monday - Friday: 9:00 - 16:00 Saturday: 10:00 - 16:00
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
We work with: All of the team at James Cornwell Interiors. We couldn’t be more delighted with our new kitchen, its everything we dreamed of. Thank you for listening carefully and delivering what you promised. Mr and Mrs Fraser Apply now at:
ideal4finance.com/james-cornwell-interiors Read our reviews
Find us on
or call
01772 671355
Contact Our Team: T: 01207 284 548 E: admin@jamescornwellinteriors.co.uk W: jamescornwellinteriors.co.uk Church Hall, Fawcett Hill Terrace, Craghead, County Durham, DH9 6EZ 7
An exceptional range of high quality stoves available in the heart of the town centre. Owner Stephen Airey and his engineers have many years experience in the heating and fireplace industry. The showroom boasts an array of traditional and contemporary woodburning and multi fuel stoves from leading manufacturers. From bespoke inglenook designs to modern freestanding versions, JTA Fires and Stoves will endeavour to make your dream a reality. We have a fully qualified installation team that cover HETAS approval for solid fuel applications, Gas Safe for gas fires and central heating systems, and also OFTEC for oil boiler installations. JTA Fires and Stoves also supply and install inset hole in the wall gas and solid fuel appliances for a minimalist look. Alternatively, we can cater for those wanting a traditional focal point fireplace in either solid wood, marble or stone. Many of these fireplace designs can be tailor made to your own specifications. We offer a free site survey with absolutely no obligation to purchase. We pride ourselves on our vast knowledge and experience, and welcome you to call in to see what we have on offer - you won’t be disappointed. Our showroom at 9 Duke Street, Darlington is open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5.00pm. Sunday opening is by appointment only. If you would like to arrange a free site survey either call into the showroom, or get in touch on 01325 389238 or email jtafiresandstoves@ icloud.com. A warm welcome awaits at JTA Fires and Stoves.
A warm welcome awaits you... Suppliers of all Leading Brands of Stoves, Fires and Fireplaces
We have on display a range of traditional and contemporary wood and multi fuel stoves. Free no obligation estimate. Fully qualified Hetas, Gas Safe and Oftec engineers. Full Fitting service available. Highly experienced sales people that will tailor your every need.
9 Duke Street, Darlington, DL3 7RX, T: 01325 389238 jtafiresandstoves@icloud.com Open Monday to Saturday 9:30am - 5:00pm
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
We foster with Durham! Could you? If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you could make a difference to a child’s life, come and chat to us and our foster carers at one of our information events at:
Spennymoor on Saturday 18 January 2020 Durham City on Wednesday 5 February 2020
Full details at durham.gov.uk/fosteringinfoevents or call 03000 269 400 10
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
nlJ}WôJlUô\~lUôh_\WôzJ _l]ôyWzWJyS^Ø
nckÇ{csnÇH@SoÇrcÇ{csnÇ snT@`Ç ÇorcnM¦Ç Ç!cnrT .c@K¦Ç snT@`¦Ç Ç /-¦Ç cnÇr@\MÇ@Kx@ar@SMÇcRÇcsnÇTc`MÇIc]]MIrUcaÇoMnxUIMÇH{ I@]]UaSÇ Ç Ç ]rMna@rUxM]{¦ÇxUoUrÇHTR«cnS«s\±Ic]]MIr
sets_v7.indd
2
RET092_Xmas_NY_StockGenAssets_v7.indd 2
13/11/2018
09:31
13/11/2018 09:31
]rMna@rUxM]{¦ÇxUoUrÇHTR«cnS«s\±Ic]]MIr I@]]UaSÇ Ç Ç cnÇr@\MÇ@Kx@ar@SMÇcRÇcsnÇTc`MÇIc]]MIrUcaÇoMnxUIMÇH{ .c@K¦Ç snT@`¦Ç Ç /-¦Ç
nckÇ{csnÇH@SoÇrcÇ{csnÇ snT@`Ç ÇorcnM¦Ç Ç!cnrT
Looking to make friends in the durham and surrounding areas? Since 1929 many women across the country have enjoyed the invaluable benefits of TG membership. They’ve experienced new things, visited different places, taken on incredible challenges, fought for women’s rights and most importantly developed lasting friendships. Interested in seeing what it is all about? You are welcome to attend a guild before considering membership.
If you would like more information or to find your local guild visit JlUô\~lUôh_\WôzJ _l]ôyWzWJyS^Ø www.the-tg.com/north or call 0121 326 0400
Join the tg family IAJOIN
11
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
New documentary film shines light on Renaissance master Leonardo For those who had always principally associated Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) with the multimedia juggernaut The Da Vinci Code or the jostling crowds of smartphone snappers perpetually surrounding the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, Leonardo: The Works gave crucial deeper insight into the Italian polymath’s life and works. I had the privilege of attending a late November screening of this wellreviewed instalment in the prolific Exhibitions on Screen documentary series at Durham’s Gala Theatre and Cinema, and the statistic of fewer than 20 major works having been attributed to the Renaissance master allowed for a comprehensive overview over the 102-minute running time. Partly as a consequence of this low level of extant output by the artist, viewers were also not – contrary to what the overarching series’ title might imply – restricted to a bigscreen treatment of Leonardo’s works around just one exhibition space. Instead, the film-makers hop from one world-renowned gallery to another on a brisk, informative and satisfyingly ultra-high-definition tour. The works themselves are not the only star, of course. That’s because a series of art historians and curators are also on hand to provide authoritative comment on the aspects of Leonardo’s story into which each piece gives us greater insight – by no means an element of 12
the film that one requires a degree in Art History to be able to appreciate. One especially nice touch is the use of local curators to provide their own thoughts on their particular Leonardo. It’s an acknowledgement that any tour of Leonardo’s surviving works is necessarily an international one. That means embracing – of course – the Louvre where multiple celebrated pieces by the artist are documented, but also the likes of London’s National Gallery with its Virgin of the Rocks, the National Museum in Kraków where Lady with an Ermine can be found, and the permanent home of The Last Supper in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Milan. Somewhat politically trickier terrain is presented by the oil-on-woodpanel Salvator Mundi, which was only officially attributed to Leonardo in 2011, a decision that continues to be disputed by some specialists. The painting – which depicts Jesus in Renaissance dress, making the sign of the cross with his right hand, while holding a transparent crystal orb in his left – is placed in the film with no allusion to the controversy surrounding its present status. Nonetheless, it’s understandable that this topic might not be touched on in a documentary that can only, in any case, devote an all-too-brisk five minutes or so to each piece. Screenings of the Exhibition on Screen series continue at the County
Durham theatre this month with Lucian Freud: A Self Portrait at 6pm on Tuesday 14th January, and 2:30pm on Thursday 30th January, shedding light on one of the 20th century’s premier portraitists. This will be followed on Monday 6th July at 6pm, by an instalment focusing on Freud’s contemporary and one of the most prevalent female icons of all time, Frida Kahlo. Tickets for each film cost £10, £8 for concessions and £7 for Gala members. You can book by calling 03000 266 600 or visiting www.galadurham.co.uk.
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
As featured on
Now is the time to book your FREE roof check!
New Pitched Roofs
Brickwork Pointing
Chimney Stack Repairs
Flat Roofs
UPVC Fascias & Soffits
Dry Ridge Systems
Lead Work
Storm Damage
EPDM Rubber
Repairs & Maintenance
Dry Verge Systems
Rated 4.7/5 stars by our customers on Google
OAP discounts available
Call us today: 0191 417 3422 Email: sales@findleyroofing.co.uk
www.findleyroofing.co.uk 13
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Your alternative online weekly payment store! Choose from a range of stylish furniture, white goods, electrical items and homeware.
Then purchase the products in an affordable way that works for you!
Visit www.smarterbuys.org now to get shopping!
The Smarterbuys Store Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under the number 07526461 and with the Charities Commission under number 1144676, whose registered office is Greengates House, Amos Drive, Greencroft Industrial Park, Co Durham, DH9 7YE. Smarterbuys store is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority reference number 713746. 14
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
For more information visit www.smarterbuys.org, call 0300 500 0975 or find us on Facebook @SmarterbuysStore 15
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
K. Dodds
services est. 2004
Gas | Heating | Plumbing All areas covered | Free Quotations 24 hr Emergency Call Outs Combi Boiler Installations (5, 7 &10 years warranties) Boiler Services & Repairs Radiators Central Heating Power Flushing Cookers & Fires Installed Showers & Taps Installed
Full Bathroom Refurbishments
t: 0191 3880055 m: 07891 916 385 Find us on REGISTER
16
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Start the New Year off,
wine & dine with us! Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Mini Afternoon tea on arrival Bottle of wine in the room Welcome platter Late checkout This is based on 2 person sharing, subject to availability. Payment is due in full at time of booking.
Must book direct with the hotel on 0191 418 9419. Holiday Inn Washington Emerson Road, Washington, Tyne and Wear, NE26 0LB
hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk Guestexperiencemanager@hiwashingtonhotel.co.uk 17
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Precious moments everyday The best things in life are the people you love and the memories you cherish. At Elderwood care home we’re here to support you to create more special moments. Elderwood care home
Westmoreland Street, Darlington DL3 0FB
Call 0808 102 4598 Visit www.anchor.org.uk/Elderwood Dated February 2018
Good
18
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
POP TOP LEISURE VEHICLES With the recent demand for leisure products in the UK and the need to have multi-purpose camper window vans that can be used as every day vehicles and for leisure trips, the PopTop Leisure Company presents a choice of new and used campervans for sale which are competitively priced to suit most people’s pockets. All our campervans are available to view at out North East showroom based in Birtley, County Durham. As well as providing a range of converted campervans for sale, it is also possible to choose a van from stock which we can then convert for you based on our flexible range of conversion options. We also offer a roof fitting service at our workshop in Washington, Tyne and Wear. You can visit our workshop in Washington, to discuss the supply and fitting of elevating PopTops and to see vehicles in mid conversion. You can also discuss a conversion of your own with our very own motor caravan converters.
Birtley Showroom: Portobello Road, Birley, Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham, DH3 2SN Washington Showroom: Unit51 Hutton Close, Crowther Ind Estate, Washington, Tyne & Wear, NE38 0AH I 0191 419111 Sale@nulite.com www.poptopcampervans.co.uk 19
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Est 1992
Operating throughout Darlington, Durham, Bishop Auckland, Crook, Newton Aycliffe and surrounding area's Offering Manual, Automatic Car lessons,Trailer training, Young Driver courses and caravan/ motor home courses. All our instructors are friendly patient, experienced, fully qualified, professionals. Check us out on
GARAGE DOORS
REMOTE CONTROL SPECIALISTS
Facebook or our website
jacksdrivingschool.co.uk Call Jack on: 07949 195 184
Think...
branding. web. digital. marketing. print.
Think...
LARGE SHOWROOM 90% OF OUR WORK IS FROM RECOMMENDATIONS YES! WE ARE THE PEOPLE YOU’VE SEEN IN THE METROCENTRE ALL WORK SUPPLIED AND INSTALLED BY THE OWNER NO SUBCONTRACTERS SHOWROOM: A692 LOBLEY HILL TO CONSETT ROAD, 100 YARDS FROM PACKHORSE, BURNOPFIELD NE16 6PF REMEMBER! - WHERE YOU BUY IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS WHAT YOU BUY
Call on 0191 388 2698 Email: hello@jakhq.com
TEL: 01207 270 711 MOBILE: 0780 192 6355
Would you like a new kitchen or that dream bathroom? If you answered 'Yes', then you should call 01325 481 956. We offer high quality kitchen collections and bathroom suites for all budgets and tastes. We also provide a free bespoke design service.
Did you know we also do Bathrooms & Kitchens
Get in touch today T: 01325 481 956 E: blackwellheating@gmail.com W: blackwellheating.co.uk Blackwell Heating & Plumbing Ltd, 29 High Northgate, Darlington, DL1 1UQ
20
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
24/7 support at the press of a button
For further information: durham.gov.uk/careconnect 03000 262 195
21
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Total Security Northern Total Security Northern are a family run business based in Chester-Le-Street established in January 2005. We design, install and maintain electronic security systems for both the domestic and commercial sectors. We are offering free connection to mobile phones for all CCTV Systems or a free backup battery to all Intruder alarm services in January to mark our 15th year anniversary. Customer comments: “Extremely happy with the service, neat and tidy, fast installation , nothing too much trouble, quality of work is excellent , wouldn’t hesitate to have them again if needed.”
“Dave installed CCTV for me at my house - 3 cameras - no fuss. Excellent job - very happy.” “Dave was very professional from start to finish. Explained our options and fulfilled our requirements promptly, efficiently & with little or no disturbance at all. Very competitive price too. Left our property immaculate. The system we have had installed is great too. Thank you for everything Dave. Would definitely recommend Total Security Northern.” “Contacted Dave to replace outside siren and system battery. Turned up on time and did an excellent job of servicing and overhauling my home alarm system which had ceased to function. Now working fine and all done at a very reasonable price. Highly recommended.”
find us on
We design systems to meet your exact requirements and keep costs down without compromising on quality. Based in County Durham with over 25 years experience in the security industry, we can design & install anything from a basic intruder alarm up to a more complex multi site CCTV System.
CCTV
INTRUDER ALARM
ACCESS CONTROL
EXTERNAL WARNING
Call Now For a FREE Quotation t: 0191 387 3117 m: 07859 070 867 www.totalsecuritynorthern.co.uk
22
Present this voucher for a free:
Present this voucher for a free:
Battery with all intruder alarm services
Connection to mobile phones for all cctv systems installed in January
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
M IL L ION DOLLA R FACIA L
Naz has opened million dollar beauty in Forsyth House on Woodlands Road.
Naz is one of the first to bring this to Darlington.
She has trained with UK’s leading training providers, bringing high end non surgical aesthetic enhancements.
Other unique treatments: - MILLION DOLLAR body - MILLION DOLLAR hair rejuvenate And much more
A unique protocol which has taken the industry by storm THE MILLION DOLLAR FACIAL which has had phenomenal results.
All products and tools are made in Britain. Find us on:
milliondollarbeautydarlington
milliondollarbeautybynaz
P R O DUC TIO N O F TH IS VO UC H ER ENTITLES YOU TO
Book
Today
10% O FF E XP IRE S 3 1 S T MARCH 2 0 2 0
on 078 57 18 5 0 7 2
23
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
January Sales Shopping Trip
Metro Centre Sunday 12th January £13 per person
Houghton Hall & Carlisle £18 per person Tuesday 11th February
Harry Potter - Warner Bros Studio Tour Saturday 29th February Sunday 1st March price depends on number of people travelling and ages of the children.
Please call for a quotation Sewing for Pleasure & Fashion & Embroidery Show @ Birmingham NEC
Saturday 21st March £45 per person includes ticket
Harrogate Edinburgh Break Friday 21st -Monday 24th February
£299 per person (Single Supplement £150) - including 3 nights B&B at 4* Marriott Hotel
Thursday 6th April
STAFFORDSHIRE CLASSIC MOTORBIKE SHOW
£15
Saturday 25th April £42 per person
per person
(including show ticket)
Departing from Staindrop, Gainford, Darlington & Scotch Corner.
24
(on some occasions these pickups will be provided via a free feeder bus to Scotch Corner) All trips include attraction admission (plus hotels and meals where applicable).
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Find us on:
Barnard Castle Coaches Ltd
Visit our website:
www.barnardcastlecoaches.co.uk
Jewels of Northern Ireland Sunday 24th to Thursday 28th May
£535 per person (Single Supplement £50) - includes 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast, guided tours at Mount Stewart House & Hillsborough Castle. Bushmills Whiskey Tour, plus entrance to The Titanic Experience & The Giants Causeway
RHS Tatton Park Thursday 23rd July
£52 per person including RHS ticket
Keswick & The Lakes Distillery Sunday 28th June
£50 per person
including Tour & Tasting plus 2 course meal
Ironbridge & Shropshire Sunday 16th - Wednesday 19th August
£375 per person (Single Supplement £60) - Price includes 3 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at The Valley Hotel, entrance to Calke Abbey Stokesay Castle, Blists Hill Victorian Town and Attringham Park.
Now taking 2020 private hire bookings. Luxury 16, 39, 50 & 57 seat coaches available. Please contact us for a no obligation quote.
Call 01833 621302 or 01833 627779 to obtain a 2020 brochure or for more info email:
barnardcastlecoaches@gmail.com 25
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
BALLROOM DANCING FOR ADULT BEGINNERS
Find me on:
Wednesday January 15th, 7.30pm - 8.30pm Cornerstones, 15 North Burns, Chester le Street, DH3 3TF ave if you h worry Do not anced a step re never d rts somewhe ne sta Everyo why not here so
Learn waltz the basic steps , quic jive a kstep, ch of a nd m any m cha, ore
My services include: Dog walking Puppy visits Microchipping Small animal holiday care Late night/early morning check ups
30 years teaching experience
Places are limited so booking is recommended
For more information, please call Sarah on 07791155548 or email dumblepaws@hotmail.com
If you have any queries or would like to register your interest please call Julie on:
07963 000 151 Find Us On Facebook
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Misted Up Glass Repairs & Replacements Fascias & Soffits Windows & Doors Handles & Locking Mechanisms Bow Windows Property Maintenance All Work Fully Guaranteed
GET YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENTS ON FINANCE COURTESY OF
Apply now at ideal4finance.com/ diamond-windows or call 01772 671355 01325 462333 / 07815 802807 diamondwindows136@gmail.com 26
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Chester le Street • 0191 338 9556 Old Brewery House South Burns Chester le Street DH3 3EZ kipmcgrath.co.uk/chester-le-street
27
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
DO YOU NEED A RELIABLE ROOFER IN THE DARLINGTON AREA?
IN 20 JO 20 N JA
W 0 NE202 E R N JA
The Keets Club
Only
FREE
£20 Joining fee!
We offer a wide range of roofing services including: NEW ROOFS • TILING & SLATING • RESTORATION • LEADWORK • VELUX WINDOWS • BARN CONVERSIONS • UPVC FASCIAS & SOFFITS • POINTING • FLAT ROOFS • GUTTERING • COUNCIL GRANT WORK • BUILDING WORK
READ OUR FANTASTIC REVIEWS AT:
T: 07453 318860
E: liam@roofingservicesdarlington.co.uk W: roofingservicesdarlington.co.uk
Buy 6 pints get one FREE We're now taking applications for our 2020 Keets Club memberships. Expect your favourite existing deal, catering discounts for events with 40+ guests... and a FREE pint on your birthday
To join The Keets Club call us or ask behind the bar Tel: 0191 388 3684 Chester-le-Street Cricket Club, Ropery Lane, County Durham, DH3 3PF
Rent a Stairlift from only £350 per year... This covers installation, servicing and repairs during office hours. Anything out of office hours will include a £40 call out fee.
We only ask for a minimum contract of 12 months. For an efficient and friendly service and all enquiries please contact either Chris or David who will be happy to help.
Tel: 01325 307473 Mob: 07718 428792
NEKPA find out more at our website:
www.stairliftsolution.co.uk
28
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
CHASE THE POST CHRISTMAS BLUES AWAY WITH OUR AMAZING JANUARY COMPETITION!
You can win Afternoon tea with an overnight stay and breakfast for two people courtesy of Lumley Castle* Just answer this simple question:
In what year was Lumley Castle built? Send your answers to: Competition Department, Unit 4, Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY *Terms and conditions apply - Must be used before March 31st excluding Valentines and Easter.
29
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
NEVER KNOWINGLY BEATEN ON PRICE
ACCOUNTANTS
ONCE A YEAR GENUINE JANUARY SALE!!!
TAX CONSULTANTS
BUSINESS ADVISORS
Huge D is co u nts Ava il a b le !
Our services include: Accountancy
Including flooring and carpets!
VAT
Business & personal taxation
Payroll
Company secretarial
Business planning
Management Accounts Find us in car park behind Costa Coffee at Blands Opening, 44/46 Front Street, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3BG
Call: 0191 388 2159 www.emmersonsfurniture.com
Tel: 01325 351970 23 Woodland Rd, Darlington, Co.Durham, DL3 7BJ
www.chrichardandco.co.uk
/emmersonsfurnitureandcarpets
Windows Darlington Ltd
UPVC Windows & Doors Conservatories Composite Doors Aluminium Bi-Folding Doors
0%
APR
FINANCE AVAILABLE
For a FREE Quote call us today on 01325 468222 Email: info@bespoke-windows.co.uk or visit our showroom , we’re at Unit 5 Banks Road, DL1 1AT
Follow us: Bespoke Windows Darlington Ltd bespokewindows darlingtonltd @bespokedarlo
30
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Established. 1998
Join us for an enhanced dining experience serving our much loved dishes in our new spacious and contemporary restaurant. Fully licensed and fully air-conditioned.
Ideal For Couples, Small & Large Parties (up to 80) Separate Party Room Available (up to 50) Full Take Away Service Including Deliveries For Bookings call
Tel: (01325) 46 46 55 www.starofbengal.org.uk 24 Duke Street | Darlington | DL3 7AQ
We look forward to seeing you soon 31
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
NHS
Make the right choice 999 or Emergency Department Only in a life-threating emergency: heavy bleeding, unconsciousness, severe breathing difficulties.
Urgent Treatment Centre Urgent but not life-threating: sprains, fractures, minor burns, skin infections
GP surgery Persistent symptoms or long-term conditions: pains, minor mental health concerns, sudden change in wellness.
Pharmacy Feeling generally unwell: fevers, aches & minor pains, stomach upsets, skin rashes
NHS 111 Need urgent help but it’s not an emergency: confused about where to go, need general advice, unsure how severe it is.
Self-care Common ailments and illnesses: colds, grazes, minor cuts, hangovers, sore throats, minor headaches.
Robson Granite Worksurfaces Limited
Darlington's Premier Granite, Silestone and Quartz Specialist.
20
years experience
An established & independent local business Robson Granite Worksurfaces Ltd, Darlington’s Premier Granite, Silestone & Quartz Specialists. We have the most experienced and skilled team of template and installation experts in the Darlington area, and while we offer the most competitive worktop prices, knowledge, skill and experience is priceless.
Enquire for Fantastic January deals on all Granite & Quartz Worktops.
Call: 07590 430370
email: enquiries@graniteworktopsdarlington.co.uk Website: www.graniteworktopsdarlington.co.uk 32
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
33
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Places to go...
FRANKFURT IN GERMANY
O
n 26/7 November, I took what was expected to be a post-Brexit trip to Germany on a rare excursion abroad for this column. By the date of travel, we were still in the EU. Our party gathered at the Eurostar terminal at St. Pancras in London (next to King’s Cross) and used the Deutsche Bahn ICE service from Brussels via Cologne to Frankfurt. Leaving London at 0857, we arrived at Frankfurt at 1516.
We had a meal inside one of the restaurants in the Christmas Market area, including the apple wine which seems more popular than beer. We returned to our hotel, the new Hyatt Place, on the S Bahn (suburban railway) and a shuttle bus from the airport station, where we had first arrived. Great excitement there, for on December 15 there is a new S-Bahn station opening adjacent to the hotel called Gateway Gardens which will make that business park one of the best connected in the country, and therefore in Europe. The new station will be the first in Germany to bear an English name. Incidentally, that date is also the day for timetable changes in Frankfurt is the fifth largest Britain, on the second Sunday in December. city in Germany, with only 750,000 inhabitants, but is On the following day I wanted to see the major financial centre a bit more of the city, using the mix of of the country. It has a underground trains, the U-Bahn, with nine twin city arrangement lines, the S-Bahn, nine suburban lines, and with Birmingham. the Strassenbahn or street trams with ten Frankfurt has its own lines. The local buses were on strike. The large Christmas Market picture shows a tram approaching the station in the old town, and the at the Messe, where trade fairs are now held, ‘new old town’ which showing the green carpet that many of the is an extension using tram lines run on. Underground trains run buildings which look in tunnels in the centre, but in the suburbs like they are ancient, but have been they run on reserved trackways or on the built recently using traditional skills. street. The city is justly proud of its public transport system which has been heavily It grew as a result of medieval trade invested in over the years. Owing to the fairs, and the first currency exchange cancellation of a high speed ICE train on for traders was established in 1585 the way back, we sampled the rival Thalys with uniform exchange rates for the service from Cologne to Brussels and passed various types of money traded at over the UK Border in Brussels Midi station the fairs. A city state for years, its St. before boarding the new Eurostar train via Paul’s church was used for the first the Channel Tunnel on the way home. parliament of the new German state in 1848, and it is home to thirty museums Alex Nelson stayed at the Hyatt in a burgeoning cultural quarter. Now, Place hotel in Frankfurt and travelled 90% of trades on the stock exchanges are courtesy of Deutsche Bahn. done in the city. 14 of the 15 skyscrapers www.frankfurt-tourismus.de in the country are in Frankfurt, which is (select English language) the HQ of many banks and the European Central Bank. On an evening guided alexnelson@dunelm.org.uk tour around the city, we saw the large www.nationalrail.com illuminated blue Euro sign, studded with twelve gold stars to represent the founding members of the EU. We were not one of the first 12 countries, so they won’t have to take one off if/when we leave!
34
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
35
Denmark Street Advert 64x96mm_Layout 1 29/01/2016
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Get the
Best for Babies!
at the area’s premier children’s nursery Nappies and Formula Milk are Included
Call: 0191 4111488 for availability St. Benet’s Way, Ouston, Chester-le-Street DH2 1QX
Fin d o u t mo re a t : www. e d e n g a r dennur s er y. com
A pharmacy that’s open early until late and 7 days a week! NHS prescriptions, over the counter medicines and healthcare products, and a wide range of other services available. Denmark Street Pharmacy Denmark Street Surgery, Denmark Street, Darlington, County Durham DL3 0PD Tel. 01325 482 498 info@denmarkstreetpharmacy.co.uk Visit denmarkstreetpharmacy.co.uk
Opening Times Mon - Sat: 7:00am - 10:30pm Sun: 10:00am - 5:00pm @DenmarkStPharm
Find us on Facebook
STEPHEN CAPSEY PLUMBING AND HEATING HEATING AND BOILER REPAIRS CARRIED OUT BY SKILLED SPECIALISTS IN NEWTON AYCLIFFE, COUNTY DURHAM SERVICES INCLUDE: • CENTRAL HEATING • BOILER SERVICES • BATHROOM REFURBISHMENT
07961 531 538
: : INFO@@STEPHENCAPSEYPLUMBINGHEATING.CO.UK WWW.STEPHENCAPSEYPLUMBINGHEATING.CO.UK 36
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
T: 0191 500 5172
E: info@fab-clinic.com
www.fab-clinic.com
Summer bodies
are made in the winter! Half price offer Full leg/classic bikini & underarm laser hair removal for only:
£31.25 per month for 8 treatments*
*spread over 24 months.
Book today! Offer ends 31stJanuary 2020 37
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Happy New Year – and welcome to the ‘20s! Hasn’t this brand new decade just crept up on us? But here we are, at the beginning of the twenties in the twenty-first century, and let’s hope it’s a great one! Not that our New Year’s resolution will be any different at all, here at Findley’s. We want to continue providing homeowners all over the North East of England with quality roofing services that protect your homes in this decade, the next, and beyond. Throughout 2020, there will be no change in our offer of a Free Roof Inspection for homes all over the region, from Northumberland, into Tyne & Wear, County Durham and the Tees Valley.
you’ll be under no pressure to immediately resolve the problem (especially as Christmas was only a matter of days ago!).
If you went through last year, or the year before, or even further back, without having your roof thoroughly and professionally inspected, then get in touch and arrange a convenient date with our expert team.
However, we can give you time to consider our services, and provide a free quotation for any repair work required.
Borough Road, Darlington, DL1 1SG Tel: Web:
▶︎ ▶︎ ▶︎ ▶︎ ▶︎
LIVE MUSIC VENUE BAND REHEARSAL ROOMS RECORDING STUDIO MUSIC EDUCATION CAFE/BAR
Award Winner
Leisure & Arts
01325 363135 www.theforumonline.co.uk
WHATS ON HIGHLIGHTS Sat 4th
Hilarity Bites Comedy Club Featuring top stand up Comedians
Doors From:
RnB Club: Xander and the Peace Pirates Beatlemania Playing the music of the Fab Four Fri 17th The Zeppelin Experience Sat 18th Black Ice [AC/DC]
Ticket Price:
7.30PM / £10.00
Fri 10h
7.30PM / £12.00
Sat 11th
7.30PM / £10.00 7.30PM / £12.00 7.30PM / £10.00
Sun 19th Film Club: Everything: The Real Thing Story The other 4 lads from Liverpool who changed the face of British music. Documentary with special guests 5.00PM / £15.00 Chris Amoo & Dave Smith and Director, Simon Sheridan Fri 24th The Total Stone Roses 7.30PM / £12.50
Thur 30th
Who’s Next Playing all the hits of The Who Live & Local - Part of Independent Venues Week
Music from The Vellacos, LC Grey & New Age Vinyl
7.00PM / £3.00
Fri 31st
Stereo MC’s - Part of Independent Venues Week
Sat 25th
38
One of the most successful hip-hop acts from the UK
7.30PM / £12.00
7.00PM / £22.00
Please Check any age restrictions on events via our website as no refunds will be given for incorrectly booked
If no problems are identified, we’ll simply be on our way and wish you a happy 2020. If we do find a problem, we’ll let you know and
Tickets available from The Forum Music Centre Reception or by calling us on 01325 363135
We may be into a New Year – even a new decade – but the Findley promise of quality remains the same. Start the New Year by calling 0191 417 3422, or emailing sales@findleyroofing.co.uk to book your Free Roof Inspection.
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Web | Branding | SEO | Social | PR | Content | Print
We’re here for the back-of-a-napkin startups, the growth-focused and the successful that never stand still. Get the results your business deserves.
4 Station Road
0191 388 2698
Chester-le-Street
hello@jakhq.com
Co. Durham DH3 3DY
www.jakhq.com 39
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
REMEMBER WHEN Postcard of Durham in winter c1904
POSTCARDS, CIGARETTE CARD & STAMP FAIR DURHAM COUNTY HALL, DURHAM, DH1 5UL
SATURDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 10:00AM - 3:00 PM Enterance fee: Adults £1.00 Free entry for accompanied children Disabled access Free Validations Provided PRE-1955 POSTCARDS WANTED CONTACT
GEORGE NAIRN
40
T. 0191 388 8780
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Best Fish and Chips in Town! 5* cleanliness, 5* customer service, 5* food. Food always fresh, friendly staff. I won’t go anywhere else
5* rating on Trip Advisor
Call & Collect 01325 48 35 35
Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 11:15am - 9pm Sunday Closed Find us on:
366 Yarm Road, Darlington, DL1 1XL www.yarmroadfishandchips.co.uk
10
%*
OFF
Produce this voucher on your visit to Yarm Road Fish & Chips and receive 10% off YOUR FINAL BILL! Valid any Monday & Tuesday throughout January*
41
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
• • • •
GC Plumbing & Tiling
ALL TYPES OF FURNITURE RECOVER REPAIR & RESTORE LARGE RANGE OF PATTERNS CUSHION INTERIORS & SPRINGS
Bathroom & Kitchen Installation Plumbing repairs Tiling Services Laminate Flooring Free estimates & advice
CALL: 01429 881937
07967 057989 | 01325 324509
Visit: www.trimdonupholstery.co.uk
OPEN
Put the sparkle back into your oven with a call to your local Ovenclean specialist!
We supply, install & repair all types of:
• Garage Doors • Roller Shutters
No mess or bother - just a perfect ‘I can’t believe it’s not a new oven’ result, everytime!
Call Richard Metcalfe on
Contact Brian or Rachel today...
07722 468214 www.ovenclean.com
Bernie Usher Electrical Services
All Electrical Work Undertaken
Domestic & Commercial • Reliable • Punctual References Available On Request
07759 985314
Web: www.cdmdroofing.co.uk
AERIAL TECH DIGITAL SOLUTIONS
Patios & Terraces - Fencing & Decking work Driveways - Block Paving - Turfing - Garden Design
Digital T.V Aerials - Repairs & Faults Extra T.V Points - Sky & Virgin Box Relocation Low Prices Guaranteed - 10 Years Experience
We are fully insured & carry a waste transfer license.
Get in touch on 07974 970338 / 01325 789227 or Email: westendlandscapes@yahoo.co.uk Visit: www.westendlandscapesdarlington.co.uk
07760 221 377 01325 242 268 Find us on
For those small jobs big companies hate! · Plumbing · Door Hanging · Fencing · Tiling · Laminate Flooring · Flat Pack Assembly And much more...
plumbing & heating services
42
SERVICES INCLUDE: Our 4K drone inspections provide our customers with a birds eye view of their roofing systems Re-Roofs/New roofs Roof repairs Fascias and Soffits Gutter repairs And much more! Email: cdmd.roofing@gmail.com www.facebook.com/cdmdroofing/ #newroofspecialists
West End Landscapes
“Call Pete for a friendly & reliable service” - Boiler installation - Repairs & Maintenance - Services - Gas Safety Inspections - Bathroom Installation Tel: 01325 259 493 | Mob: 07736 352 988 Email: petemorrison22@gmail.com
insulateddoors@outlook.com
Mob: 07450 230 366
Landscaping & Gardening Services throughout the North East
CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE 01388 746 630 07929 366 505
07842 786216
Tel: 01325 582015
Time Served Tradesman - Established in 1986
ADRIANS HANDYMAN SERVICES
& SHUT
GARAGE DOORS
· Single & Double Ovens · Agas & Ranges · Grills, Hobs & Extractors · Microwaves · BBQs
517105
&
All Areas Covered: 01748 824861 / 07773 740611
SERVICES
Block Paving · Paths · Patios · Turfing Driveways Tarmac, Concrete & Resin Gates & Fences · Hedge Cutting Pruning · Treework · Decking
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
All aspects of Carpentry and Joinery Specialist in Kitchen Fitting & Wooden Floors
★★★★★
FULLY INSURED
For a FREE No Obligation Quote Please Call:
07817 153861 www.dmcdadejoinery.co.uk
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
J. Mitchell
Quality Re-upholstery to modern & antique furniture. Foam replacement • Cushion covers • Springs replacement Webbing replacement • Bespoke headboards taylorsupholstery.com | contact@taylorsupholstery.com Unit 51 Birtley Business Centre, Birtley, DH3 1QT. Tel: 0191 660 64 07 / 07543 90 05 83
Windows | Doors | Conservatories Guardian Warm Roofs | Garage Door Composite Doors | Free Quotation
www.jmitchellroofing.co.uk ROOFING & GUTTERING SERVICES Fam ily BusRun ines s
Fascias, Soffits Roofing, Guttering Dry Ridge, Dry Verge
P O W E R WA S H I N G S E R V I C E S A L S O AVA I L A B L E
CALL 07415 889354
t:01429 883323 m:07887 486296
W:
PROUD MEMBER OF Find us
READ OUR 5* REVIEWS ON FACEBOOK & RATEDPEOPLE.COM
DMW Computer Solutions Computer Repairs - Virus Removal - Data Recovery Screen Replacement - VHS to DVD Conversion
Chimney Sweeping | Power Washing | Gutter Cleaning
Home, Office, Gaming Machines Custom Built 7 Day Service (Includes evenings) No Hourly Rates | No Call-out Charges
Tel: 01388 815 765 Mob: 07964 661 601
Tel - 07821 264990 | 01609 771973 www.dmwcomputersolutions.co.uk
Email: apbulmerservices@outlook.com
J.R. Stephenson
Wallnut Home Improvements
LANDSCAPING
Family Business Since 2012
NO JOB TOO SMALL!
Free no obligation quotation Gutter Cleaning Gardening Plastering Woodwork Fitting Windows Tiling Painting and many more...
07854669289
wallnut2002@yahoo.com
Paths • Patios • Stone Circle • Steps • Decorative Stones Tree Felling • Turf • Bark • Fencing & Decking Pruning • Block Paving • Concrete • Flag Stones Gravel • Driveway Repairs • Extensions
“You make the call, we will do the rest!!” Call: 01325 498187 or mob: 07852 320177 email: jr.stephenson@hotmail.com
Get in touch: 07583 000101
Fre Estimaete & Quote s s
eastbournelaundry@outlook.com
FULLY INSURED LAUNDRY AND IRONING SERVICE
IRONING: £3 PER KILO WASH: £2.50 PER KILO OAP’S DISCOUNT AVAILABLE
FREE same day collect & return within 5 mile radius. From home or workplace between 06.30 - 20.00 SMOKE FREE ENVIROMENT FAST, FRIENDLY, RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT.
NOT ENOUGH HOURS IN THE DAY? STOP THE STRESSING, LET US DO THE PRESSING!
All general plumbing works including upgrades, leaks & repairs, inside & out
KEV BROWN DECORATOR
NO CALL OUT FEE OVER
40
E
YEARS XP E RIE NC
E
Exterior Painting • Paint Sprayer Painting • Wallpapering And Much More... T: 01642 350242 M: 07940180442 E: lyn.neb@hotmail.co.uk
Complete Bathroom Installations (Including tiling & associated building works, flooring, decorating, etc)
07827 587260 stevejonesplumber@gmail.com
43
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
R E D R MU Y NIGHT
R E T MYS 1
2 Y A D R SATU
erson p r e p 5 £31.9 meal Tickets e s r u o s3c Include
ST
MARCH
7.30pm Arrival 10.30pm t a s e g a Carri
920’S 1 F F STA E H T T more ’T GE N A getting C is f f U a t f s YO Head o eliable chaos. etting r
tairs is u rst , g . Little below s y Sandh d e a iv L r control r d a p n e a s e t d s k r e For Lo rying to t. As gu e!!! tes is t difficul a e B r s o end aliv e k m m e a e J w and f t f st a his las sehold will be is h the hou t t a k n ow t h does he
The Croft Hotel Croft-on-Tees | Darlington | DL2 2ST
44
Contact us on 01325 720319 | email at info@crofthotel.net | www.crofthotel.net
Please mention Darlington Monthly when contacting advertisers
PUZZLE PAGE Simply complete one of the competitions below, fill in the entry form and send to the postal address provided.
You have the chance to win...
aExcluding Sunday Lunch for Two!* drinks *
Courtesy of... H O T E L
Name The Ad HOW TO PLAY: Match the five segments of images below with an Advert in this magazine, place either the company name or the page number in the space below each box.
Sudoku easy
2 4 1 7 8 5
6 9 7 3 4 5 2 9 7 1 8 6 1 4 9 5 8 9 7 6 4 3 6
1 4 5 7 6 2
Wordsearch S K R O W E R I F N E K
L A O G R K S M K O L A
U O A U C N I J J I S C
N Q H Y W C C L O O W I O N K D C I Y T R A N U X Y T T U L V G D G A O
P O G D J G A A O O A J
D H L I T S P R A S X Y
T G Z I X N E Y R E C O
L J R K D X U L O R W I
J L K B A A Z O A N M B
C H E E R S Y E C S B B
January | Cheers | Clock | Countdown Fireworks | Holiday | Midnight | Goal Resolution | Party | Snow | Sales
The Winner will be notified by Darlington Monthly within 14 days of the competition closing date. Name: Address:
Postcode: Email:
Please send all entries to: Competition Department, Unit 4, Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. Competition End Date: 22nd January 2020
Find us on Facebook: DarlingtonMonthly Visit us online: www.darlingtonmonthly.co.uk
45
Please mention Darlington Monthly when contacting advertisers
FILM REVIEW:
jumanji: the next level Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, the comedy-adventure film released back in late 2017, was a peculiar thing. Narratively, it loosely followed on from the 1995 Robin Williams film Jumanji – but, with a new cast, tone and even premise, felt more like a reboot or reimagining than a straight sequel. Two years on from that box-office hit, The Next Level largely serves up more of the same, but it’s hard to see many people complaining. In the 1995 film, Jumanji was a board game where simply playing it unleashed terrifying elephants, rhinos, bats and the like into the real world. By 2017, however, Jumanji had turned into a cartridge-based video game which took four dysfunctional high-school students into its own leafy world. The first film’s creepy vibe was largely jettisoned, replaced by comedic banter between new cast members Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan as the in-game avatars. They are all back for The Next Level, also featuring Danny DeVito and Danny Glover, who obviously doesn’t think he’s getting too old for this… stuff. The pair play, respectively, former restaurant co-owners Eddie Gilpin and Milo Walker, who add to the body-swap comedy reminiscent of Welcome to the Jungle. Eddie and Milo are inadvertently sucked into the game when the teenage chums of awkward geek Spencer (Alex Woolf) embark on a mission to rescue him from it.
Why did Spencer return to it in the first place? As it turns out, he had longed to slip back into the digital guise of selfassured muscleman Dr Smolder Bravestone (Johnson). However, apparently due to glitches in the system, it’s now Eddie who plays Bravestone, Milo is the diminutive “backpack guy” Franklin “Mouse” Finbar (Hart), while Spencer is… well, that would be telling. Bodies continue to swap mirthfully during the runtime, though shy girl Martha (Morgan Turner) mainly stays the Lara Croft-like “killer of men” Ruby Roundhouse (Gillan). The Next Level is aptly-named – as, in many ways, it does feel like a more turbocharged version of its predecessor. The action setpieces, with snakes, ostriches and mandrills aplenty, are noticeably tenser and more frenetic. The Rock’s especially responsible for more than a few heart-in-the-mouth moments, while some of Ruby’s moves are so balletic that they look practically computergenerated.
Like an actual video game, the film risks feeling a little too formulaic and on-rails. Meanwhile, certain gags, like the nod to the self-repeating “NPC” (non-player character) Nigel Billingsley (Rhys Darby), are rehashed from the previous film. However, a range of new settings, including arid desert and snowtopped mountains, provide a break from the more tropical feel of Welcome to the Jungle, which rarely left Hawaiian shores. If there will be yet another Jumanji follow-up soon, its premise is probably going to need a bigger twist than what we’ve got here. Fortunately, though, a mid-credits teaser suggests that we can rest easy on this point. While not quite Game of the Year, then, The Next Level remains a welcome expansion pack.
Craig Lenaghan Copywriter
We are offering a family ticket for any film at Vue Darlington at Feethams
(valid for 2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children) All you have to do to enter is answer the following question...
Q:
2020 is the Chinese New Year of the what?
Answer: Name: Address: Email:
Postcode: Please send all entries to: Competitions Department, Unit 4, Station Road, Chester-le-St, Co. Durham, DH3 3DY *NEW* Or enter free by commenting on this advert on our Facebook Page @DarlingtonMonthly
46
To Advertise Contact Darlington Monthly Email: sales@darlingtonmonthly.co.uk Tel: 01325 776225
Please mention Darlington Monthly when contacting advertisers
What’s on
January
Justin Moorhouse: Northern Joker
10 January – 20:00 – Darlington Hippodrome Is the Cold War revisiting us? Have Dennis the Menace and the Bash Street Kids gone out of fashion? Is there hope for the Northern straight white male comedian? Comic Justin Moorhouse has been pondering all of these questions - and asking whether it’s really just a case of us coming full circle.
The Paranormalist Returns: Clinton Baptiste 18 January – 19:30 – Majestic Theatre Fans of Peter Kay’s cult sitcom Phoenix Nights will fondly remember Clinton Baptiste, actor Alex Lowe’s parodic take on po-faced clairvoyants. For this special night, Lowe will bring back the character - and attempt a trip to the Other Side and back again...
Pink Floydian – An Evening of Classic Sinderella Pink Floyd 11 January – 19:00 – Majestic Theatre You might be just another brick in the wall, but this is far from just another Pink Floyd tribute show. It’s a breathtakingly faithful recreation of the classic rock band’s performances back in the day, with choice slices from the likes of More, Meddle and the seminal Dark Side of the Moon all covered.
Hilarity Bitesize feat. Dave Johns & Support
13 January – 19:30 – Hole in the Wall Comedian Dave Johns, who found himself an unexpected film star when he took the lead role in Ken Loach’s drama I, Daniel Blake in 2016, is back in more familiar comic territory here. He’ll be joined by the night’s host Andy Fury, “an absolute genius of a comedian” by the BBC’s reckoning.
22 January – 20:00 – Majestic Theatre This elaborately-decorated, laugh-a-minute take on the familiar pantomime story is strictly for adults. Stars from hit shows like Britain’s Got Talent and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK comprise the main cast.
Sleeping Beauty
24 January – 19:30 – Darlington Hippodrome The Russian State Ballet of Siberia performs this classic love story while a live orchestra, the Russian State Ballet Orchestra, brings Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous score to life.
Vadym Kholodenko
26 January – 15:00 – Dolphin Centre On his second UK tour, and first since 2017, the young Ukrainian pianist Vadym Kholodenko will treat audiences to several pieces of the Russian repertoire as well as classical-era sonatas.
Exhibition On Screen: Lucian Freud – A The George Michael Story 30 January – 19:30 – Majestic Theatre Self Portrait 14 January – 13:00 and 19:00 – Vue Darlington An exhibition of late artist Lucian Freud’s self-portraits is running at London’s Royal Academy of Arts until 26 January, but you don’t need to schedule a trip to the capital to see it.The exhibition’s dozens of paintings, prints and drawings will be screened right here in Darlington.
It’s easy to have - ahem - faith in this astonishingly accurate tribute to the much-missed heartthrob-turned-iconicartist George Michael. The show will take you from George’s Wham! days to his more mature solo material - and cuts of both ticket and merchandise sale profits will go to his charities.
Got an event coming up? Let us know and we’ll help spread the news. Email details of your event to:
sales@darlingtonmonthly.co.uk
Find us on Facebook: DarlingtonMonthly Visit us online: www.darlingtonmonthly.co.uk
47
PLEASE MENTION THE MAGAZINE WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS
Find us @ The Grange, 41 Hurworth Road, Hurworth Place, Darlington, DL2 2BN
Tel: 01325 952360 • www.oaktreehi.com • sales@oaktreehi.com
• Replace the old roof with a fully insulated Guardian Warm Roof • Your conservatory will be nice and cool in Summer & cosy and warm in Winter • The dramatic change takes less than a week • Reduced fuel bills - increased house value
DO IT ONCE WITH OAKTREE GRP
(Glass Reinforced Plastic) felt free Flat Roof Solutions LIFE EXPECTANCY OF OVER 45 YEARS NO SEAMS - NO JOINS FOR WATER TO PENETRATE! A STRONG DURABLE ONE PIECE PROFESSIONAL FINISH
JAN SALE - 20% OFF ALL ORDERS TAKEN BEFORE THE END OF JAN 2020
Conservatories
Guardian Roof Replacement
Windows & Doors
Porches
Composite Doors
Bi-Folding Doors
Canopies & Car Ports
Garage Doors
Fascias, Soffits & Guttering
Covering North Yorkshire & The North East 48
Call us to make an appointment to visit our showroom