DCC Durham County News Summer 2017

DURHAM County News

www.durham.gov.uk

Summer 2017

The magazine for people in County Durham

BRASS is back!

Do something different - volunteer!

Top picks for summer events and activities

Win Hardwick Live or Open Treasure tickets and more

WELCOME

Summer is a great time to be outdoors, go somewhere different and form new friendships and memories.

to the summer edition of Durham County News

This issue of Durham County News is packed full of activities to help you do just that.

An eventful bank holiday in Durham City (page 3) sets the stage for a summer of festivals, events and celebrations across the Councillor Edward Bell, county including the annual BRASS festival, Chairman of the council Durham Miners’ Gala, The Bowes Museum 125th anniversary celebrations and the return to Bishop Auckland of Kynren - an epic tale of England (page 21 onwards).

Summer is also the best time to enjoy our beautiful coastline.

The Reach for the Beach Festival is a great way to experience Durham’s Heritage Coast and while you’re there, visit our new travelling artwork, Ps in a Pod by artist Louise Plant, (pages 24 and 25).

And with so much going on, parks, open spaces and coastline to maintain and activities to support, find out how you can make a difference through volunteering (pages 6 and 7).

I hope you enjoy reading the magazine and you can find more stories and videos online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Edward Bell Competition entries Competition entries should be received by Friday 9 June 2017 (unless the competition states otherwise). Pop your entries in one envelope (don’t forget to use a stamp!) and post to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham DH1 1RH or drop them in to reception at any of our access points. NEW - you can now enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn Durham County News is written and designed by Durham County Council, printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd and distributed by The National Leaflet Company and Royal Mail. It costs 16p a copy.

To contact the editorial team, call 03000 268 059 or email durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk Please ask us if you would like this document summarised in another language or format.

Braille

Audio

Large print

durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk 03000 268 059 When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it.

Inside...

Page News

Page

4-5

Page

6-7

Page

8-9

Page

Volunteering

Page

Children and young people

Page

Page

21­-23

Top picks for summer including BRASS and The Bowes Museum anniversary

Page

12-13

Page

Adults and health

16-19

Local news pages

10-11

Green living

14-15

Durham, a beacon for business

24-25

Out and about

26­-31

What’s on

Front cover: Mr Wilson’s Second Liners perform at Streets of BRASS (see page 23).

Bank holiday treats Durham City is hosting some great events over the holiday weekend.

Hot Air Balloon Festival Friday 26 to Monday 29 May East Durham College’s Houghall Campus, outskirts of Durham City A visually impressive hot air balloon festival with up to 20 commercial and privately owned hot air balloons launched over Durham City.

The dawn and dusk balloon launches should offer budding photographers excellent camera opportunities as balloons rise over the Cathedral. www.durhambid.co.uk

?

Did you Know? Durham City has been named the Most Cultured City

by TotallyMoney.com

Tour Series cycling Saturday 27 May South Street, Durham City Now in its ninth season, The Tour Series organised by the team behind The Tour of Britain returns. For the first time the city will be hosting it on a Saturday!

Cheer on professional cyclists as they take on Durham’s cobbles in a thrilling test of their skill and speed as riders from seven professional men’s teams battle it out over ten rounds during the early evening. www.tourseries.co.uk Watch a video of last year’s event at

www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

photo: Gay Pride Pics

Durham Pride Sunday 28 to Monday 29 May The Sands, Durham City Durham Pride returns with a rainbow of colour to celebrate and promote inclusivity and diversity in County Durham.

There’ll be fun for all at the family picnic (no alcohol) on Sunday 28 May from 11am to 4pm. Then join the party from 12noon on Bank Holiday Monday by taking part in the parade and enjoying live entertainment, a fairground and stalls. facebook.com/durhamprideUK

This issue is packed full of festivals, events and celebrations across the county, see pages 21 onwards and our What’s on section.

The Tour Series inspires the next generation

Following a visit to see The Tour Series in 2013, cycling has taken over the lives of the Kinghorn family from Durham.

George took his eldest son Tyler to see The Tour Series and Tyler was so inspired that he asked “Dad can you get me a road bike?” Now the whole family ride regularly, George has become a cycling coach and his wife Marcia is currently completing a coaching course. George formed Durham City Vélo in 2015 and the club currently has over 100 members. George said: “The main focus for ...club currently has most club members is the weekly club run, always paced to accommodate the slowest rider, and we never leave a over 100 members. person behind. “

“

”

If you are inspired to take up cycling, you can find out more about cycling activities, and clubs including Durham City Vélo at www.durham.gov.uk/cycling

Bank holiday events

3

Contact us: You can get lots of information, and apply online for council services via

www.durham.gov.uk

Save time do it online Report Apply Book Pay Comment

Comment If you Apply need toBook phonePay us, call Customer Services

Report

03000 26 0000 8.30am-5pm (Monday-Thursday) 8.30am-4.30pm (Friday) Garden Waste

Missed Bin

Generic Bin

Street Litter

Out of hours emergency service available.

Fly Tipping

Recycle

Pest Control

Concessionary Travel

If you have a specific query, use one of our dedicated numbers: Waste Permit

Council Tax

Large Waste

Registrars

Streetscene, Highways and Street Lighting Enquiries Planning

School Admission

Graffiti

03000 26 1000 Sandbags / Flood

Includes rubbish and recycling, street lighting faults, potholes, commercial waste, neighbourhood wardens, stray dogs, abandoned vehicles, pest control, street cleaning, litter and dog fouling, graffiti, fly-tipping, fly-posting, parks,­ open spaces and cemeteries maintenance.

Street Lighting

Salt Bins

Road Problems

Dog Fouling

Blue Badges

ASB

Gritting

NEWS Royal seal of approval for two of the county’s schools Two County Durham schools which benefitted from recent investment in their buildings welcomed HRH The Duke of Gloucester this spring.

His Royal Highness met pupils, staff and members of the community at Sedgefield Community College and Wolsingham School.

Sedgefield Community College replaced its main building in January 2011 with a £17.1million development, providing space for 750 students, and in September last year, opened a £1.8million annexe, completing the new facilities.

The Duke of Gloucester toured the new facilities, including The Heart Space an open plan learning zone - where he observed students at work, while taking in a display of pupils’ fine art, photography and fashion work.

Later in the day, His Royal Highness travelled to Wolsingham School, where £6.5million has recently been invested in the construction of new school facilities and the redevelopment of the original, historic school building.

Calendar

Follow Our Lead campaign

Benefit Enquiries

03000Save 26time 2000 do it online

New enforcement powers for dog control will come into force from 1 June. The new powers - which aim to encourage responsible dog ownership; reduce the number of strays; create safe and welcoming play areas and reduce dog fouling - received huge public support in our recent consultation.

Report Apply Book Pay Comment

Council Tax Enquiries

03000 26 4000

Social Care Direct/Children’s First Contact Service

From June it will be a fineable offence to allow a dog to stray, fail to put a dog on a lead when asked to by an authorised officer or allow dogs into fenced off play areas.

03000 26 79 79

Families Information Service

1,778 calls about stray dogs

We picked up 1,173 stray dogs

The existing offence of allowing a dog to foul and not picking it up will continue.

03000 26 99 95

Find out more about the new powers and health check events organised by Dogs Trust at www.durham.gov.uk/dogcontrol

@DurhamCouncil /durhamcouncil linkedin.com/company/ durham-county-council

During 2015/2016 we received

briskly FOR 10 MINUTES COUNTS AS exercise

From

Search Active 10 to download the app today.

/DurhamCouncil

Download the FREE ACTIVE 10 app

/durham_county_council

4

News

Killhope - a hidden gem!

One of our most popular attractions has been named a “hidden gem” by Visit England’s Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme, signified by the Quality Rose Marque. The Hidden Gem is awarded to attractions across the UK which offer innovative, interesting or unique tourist experiences.

This is the third award that Killhope has received recently, alongside the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Heritage Award.

Why not visit Killhope and find out for yourself what a ‘hidden treasure’ it really is? www.killhope.org.uk

Durham Cathedral is crowned Heritage Site of the Year!

Durham Cathedral has been crowned BBC Countryfile Magazine’s Heritage Site of the Year 2017 following a public vote which saw a ‘landslide’ of votes cast for the magnificent structure.

The Cathedral welcomes over 750,000 visitors each year, and was the most visited free attraction in the North East in 2016.

To find out more about what’s on offer at Durham Cathedral, visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Download the Baby Buddy app Baby Buddy is the multi-award winning free app for parents and parents-to-be which guides you through pregnancy, birth and beyond.

There is daily personalised information, you can watch over 250 videos and much more!

Download it for FREE today from…

Campaign invites visitors to step back in time A new national marketing campaign aims to draw even more visitors to the county by inviting them to ‘step back in time’ and experience Durham’s fascinating heritage through award-winning attractions, enthralling exhibitions and exciting events.

Beamish Museum, Durham Cathedral and Durham University are joining with Visit County Durham to deliver the new heritage campaign. To find out more, visit www.thisisdurham.com/heritage

Durham Food and Drink Guide The 2017 edition of the Durham Food and Drink Guide, produced by Visit County Durham, is now available.

The guide, which is available at hundreds of outlets, provides a sample of the delicious food and drink on offer across the county. Download a copy from www.thisisdurham.com/publications

Guided Walks Make the most of the summer by joining one of our walks.

Discover history, wildlife and even your creative side there’s a wide range of walks of all lengths and difficulties for you and your family. Copies of the guide are available from Wharton and Hardwick Parks and a range of other council venues.

Or download a copy from www.durham.gov.uk/countryside

News

5

Looking to volunteer?

If you’re thinking about doing something different this summer, why not volunteer?

Volunteers (L-R) Ella Lee - young person’s gymnastics volunteer, Helen Winterbone - Festival Maker, Dorothy Cornish - Friends of Wharton Park volunteer and Wilf Proctor - local history volunteer.

National Volunteers’ Week takes place from Thursday 1 to Wednesday 7 June and is a great chance to find out about the many opportunities for you to get involved.

Volunteers make a huge difference in County Durham and many events and activities wouldn’t be able to go ahead without the generous people who give their time.

It’s also a great way to meet new people, gain new skills and have fun!

So if you’re crazy about compost, passionate about parks or fanatical about festivals why not find the perfect opportunity for you?

Name:

Volunteer C V

Dorothy Cornish

We have a number of volunteering opportunities that you can sign up to:

Events, culture and sport

Would you love to get backstage at a big event or to inspire people to get fit? Volunteer to become a Festival Maker, help to run a community gym or as a Walk4Life or Bike4Life leader.

Libraries, archaeology and local history

of Volunteer CV: Friends Wharton Park. llowing my retirement, Why I volunteered: Fo and wanted to offer I had more time to spare thusiasm to benefit my skills, energy and en way. the community in some teering: It’s a lovely What I got out of volun u are making a feeling knowing that yo preciated for your difference and to feel ap input.

Volunteering with us

Could you make history as a volunteer? Enhancing our Historic Environment Record, working on the Durham at War project or helping teach digital skills in libraries are just some of the projects you could get on board with.

Your local environment

If you’re green fingered or hate litter, dig in and help our environment. Our Big Spring Clean litter picks, schemes to tackle dog fouling and County Durham in Bloom are only a few of the campaigns you can support.

Family support

Make a difference to the lives of families in County Durham by volunteering. From driving to befriending and supporting local charities, there are a variety of ways to get involved.

Volunteer and make a difference today! www.durham.gov.uk/volunteering 6

Volunteering

RETURNS TO DURHAM 16 - 19 NOVEMBER 2017

Be a part of the UK’s largest outdoor light festival, volunteer as a Festival Maker.

Name:

Festival Makers at Lumiere 2015. Produced by Artichoke. Photo by Matthew Andrews.

Volunte

er C V

Helen Winterbone

Volunteer CV: Lumi ere, Cancer Research - Ra ce for Life, Kynren and more.

Why I volunteer: I started volunteering to get out and about and fill in my time following redundancy . I also wanted to give something back to the community.

Best part of voluntee

It’s great being part

and local to the area

ring at Lumiere: of something big

. The atmosphere is amazing and it reall y gives you a feel good factor.

Watch a video about being a Festival Maker at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Celebration Event Wednesday 14 June Beamish Museum Volunteers across the county will have their hard work and achievements recognised this June at the County Durham Volunteering celebration event 2017.

Find out more at www.durhamcommunityaction.org.uk

Could you help light up Lumiere 2017?

The countdown is on as Lumiere returns to Durham this November for the fifth time, and you could be part of it. As we get ready to host the UK’s largest outdoor light festival, we’re working with festival producers Artichoke to recruit volunteer Festival Makers to help make Durham shine.

Who are we looking for?

We want to hear from you if: • you’re over 18, have a friendly personality and a passion for the festival • you can be available for at least two shifts during Lumiere - Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 November.

We’re looking for people with different skills and life experiences - this could be your first time volunteering or you could be a seasoned pro!

What will you be doing?

To make sure the festival runs smoothly you could be: • welcoming visitors, helping them find their way around and providing advice on how to get the best Lumiere experience • telling people about the artworks • helping to run the Festival Visitor Hub • helping production staff when needed - plus much more!

What’s in it for you?

We couldn’t do it without our volunteers but what do you get out of it?

• be part of something huge - over 200,000 people visited Lumiere in 2015 • go behind the scenes - learn first-hand how a major arts event is run • add to your CV - build on your skills and experience and even enrol on to our accredited course.

Find out more...

www.durham.gov.uk/festivalmaker

Volunteering

7

Making a difference to young lives Across the county we strive to make a difference to the lives of children and young people, helping them to develop and achieve their aspirations and to maximise their potential. From care settings to excellent education and the opportunity to flourish in their hobbies, we pride ourselves on our commitment to creating a county that’s altogether better for children and young people.

Fostering It’s Foster Care Fortnight from Monday 8 to Sunday 21 May, during which we highlight the fantastic work done by our foster carers across the county.

Make ordinary moments

extraordinary Watch a video at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Niki Watkis has been a foster carer for six years, she said: “Fostering becomes a career that you never want to leave because nothing else gives you the same type of feelings and the same love and warmth that fostering does.”

As a foster carer you’re “actually doing a job that makes a real difference to someone as a person.

Across the county, hundreds of children ranging from babies to teenagers need foster care placements. These range from one-night emergency placements to placements for many years; we will help you look at what type of fostering will suit you best.

”

Support and financial assistance We offer a full package of support, training and financial assistance to all of our foster carers. Our therapeutic service, known as the Full Circle initiative is praised as one of the best in the industry. Most people become foster carers because they want to make a difference to the lives of children and young people and the difference they make is amazing.

We would urge anyone who feels like they could open their home and their heart to a child to get in touch with us and learn more about how rewarding foster caring can be.

For more details about becoming a foster carer please visit www.durham.gov.uk/fostering or call 03000 269 400.

Arts opportunities for young people Children and young people are offered excellent music and performance opportunities in and out of school.

Earlier this year, Durham County Music Service launched Durham Vocal Festival, where young singers from the county performed in Durham Cathedral alongside the National Youth Choir of Great Britain. This festival will be repeated

next year alongside the return of the Sage Spectacular, during which the county’s ensembles and groups of all abilities come together for a celebration of music.

Those keen to tread the boards are also afforded excellent training at Gala Theatre Stage School, pictured left, which puts on regular performances and already has a list of West-End performers among its alumni.

The Music Service works with schools to identify youngsters to take part and you can find out more about the Stage School at www.galadurham.co.uk/gtss

8

Children and young people

Fancy a career in social work?

As part of our drive to make sure children, young people and families receive the highest quality services, we are recruiting more social workers to our team.

Cockfield Community Primary and Nursery School who were in the top two per cent in the country for maths.

Educational excellence For the first time in our history our early years children are reaching a good level of development, which places them in line with the national average for children of this age.

Our primary schools are exceeding the national averages for educational standards and attainment meaning standards in Durham have never been as high.

Several schools have received letters of praise from the Minister for Education for their excellence in specific subject areas, with some coming in the top two per cent and five per cent across the country.

And these high standards continue into higher education, where two of the county’s schools have been judged by Ofsted as ‘Outstanding’ in every area, including leadership and results.

Durham Sixth Form Centre and Sedgefield Community College were both highly praised by inspectors and saw their Ofsted rankings improve from ‘Good’ on the previous inspection to ‘Outstanding’ at this most recent visit.

Our social workers receive some of the best training possible, through our unique Social Work Academy - the only programme of its kind in the North East.

Our most recent recruits have just started the Academy’s six week nurturing programme, which is followed by one-to-one and group support during a social worker’s first year.

We offer competitive salaries, manageable workloads and access to regular training with the opportunity to develop your career whether you want to enhance your skills in practice, or move into a management post.

Laura, one of our social work team managers, said: “I have worked for children’s services for 12 years, I have been supported fully with my career development from young person’s advisor to team manager. Durham County Council is an excellent employer who is committed to and invests in its employees.”

We also particularly need experienced social work practitioners and managers to join our forward thinking and ambitious service.

For more information please visit www.durham.gov.uk/socialwork

More students to hear about

Dying to be Cool campaign Educational assemblies on the dangers of jumping into cold water are returning this summer.

Over 6,500 pupils will hear safety messages from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service and Fiona Gosling (pictured), whose 14-year-old son Cameron, died from cold water shock after jumping into the River Wear in summer 2015.

Watch a video at Find out more about the dangers at www.durham.gov.uk/dyingtobecool www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Children and young people

9

Green living Open for entries 5 June - 28 July

Have you made a difference to your local environment this year? The County Durham Environment Partnership would like to hear from you! The awards celebrate projects that improve and enhance the environment through great design, environmental guardianship and community spirit.

Fly-tipping: help stop it!

There are 12 categories which recognise work carried out by individuals, community groups, schools and organisations:

Top tips to get rid of furniture and white goods legally • Ask to see a Waste Carrier Licence when using a ‘man with a van’. This means the person is licensed with the Environment Agency to dispose of waste legally.

Built environment

Schools and colleges

Climate change

Volunteer group of the year

Community partnership Craftsmanship Greener business

Volunteer of the year – under 18

Natural environment

Volunteer of the year – over 18

Places and spaces

Waste management

All projects or work must have been completed within County Durham. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in the autumn.

For more information and to enter, go to www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards or call 03000 265 545.

It’s a crime not to care where your waste item ends up.

If your item ends up fly-tipped, we could trace it back to you. We can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice of £400 for fly-tipping and we regularly prosecute fly-tippers and unlicensed waste carriers through the magistrates courts.

•

Arrange a council bulky waste collection - book online at www.durham.gov.uk/bulkywaste or call 03000 261 000.

•

Take items to a household waste recycling centre. See www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc for locations and opening times. If you’re visiting in a van, you’ll need to apply for a free permit beforehand. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/ householdpermit or call 03000 261 000.

•

If items are still in good working condition, donate to a furniture reuse scheme. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/reuse for a scheme near you.

For more information about fly-tipping, visit www.durham.gov.uk/flytipping or www.keepbritaintidy.org/crimenottocare

Watch a video about fly-tipping at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

A big thank you to hundreds of spring cleaners www.durham.gov.uk/ bigspringclean

The annual LitterFree Durham’s Big Spring Clean, now in its tenth year, encouraged people to organise and take part in litter-picks throughout County Durham and Darlington.

This year more than 2,800 bags of rubbish were collected by 2,500 volunteers.

We can help get rid of most common pests for a one-off payment of

£40

We treat: 4rats 4mice 4wasps 4flying and crawling insects 4moles 4squirrels. for households

10

Green living

www.durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol

Tel: 03000 261 000

Communities ready to bloom Judging has started in the Royal Horticultural Society’s Northumbria in Bloom competition. Durham City, Chester-le-Street and Stanley’s spring displays have already been judged with summer judging taking place in July.

Results are due to be announced in September. For more details visit www.durham.gov.uk/inbloom

The results are in:

Good to Know campaign We asked you to tell us your thoughts about recycling in the home. The results are in and we want to say a big THANK YOU!

Watch a video at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

• 43% of you said they are now

more aware of what can be included in the kerbside recycling service

Give old clothing a new life If you have unwanted clothing or materials, such as curtains and bedding, lying around at home, pass them on and reduce waste, raise funds and help local charities!

• Bag 2 School - we’ve teamed up with Bag 2 School to help schools and community groups recycle unwanted clothes and materials... and get paid for it! To find out more call 01609 780 222 or visit www.bag2school.com • Donate to a local charity shop - on average each charity shop reuses 40 tonnes of items in a year.

• Donate to a clothing bank - County Durham Socialist Clothing Bank provides free clothes to people in need. Contact 07707 031 625 or email cdsocialist.clothingbank@gmail.com to donate.

• Use door-to-door collections - charities often post bags through your letterbox. Check the bag is from a legitimate charity on the Charity Commission website.

• Sell it - sell items in good condition using auction websites or through selling pages on social media.

Have your say on our garden waste collection service Complete the survey online at www.durham.gov.uk/consultation or pick up a copy from a customer access point, household waste recycling centre, library or leisure centre. The closing date for responses is 30 June.

• 29.2% said they were more aware that plastic containers and bottles can be recycled than before the campaign

• 70% who had seen the campaign said it made them want to recycle more

• Overall, respondents reported they are recycling more now compared to before the campaign

For more tips and advice on what can and can’t be recycled visit www.durham.gov.uk/whatgoeswhere

May bank holiday bins Household bins will be emptied as normal during the May bank holiday week (29 May). Please place your rubbish, recycling or garden waste bins out for collection by 7am on your usual collection day. To check your collection day, use the ‘My Durham’ section of www.durham.gov.uk

Green living

11

Helping you to be independent in your own home Did you know there is support and help available to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe, well and independent in your own home? From special equipment to make independent living easier to respite services for anyone in need of a break, find out more about the services on hand across the county.

Care Connect Imagine your mother or father lives alone and has become forgetful and frail. If you don’t live close by, it can be worrying, but a call to Care Connect can provide peace of mind to you and them if your friend or relative wants to remain independent by staying in their own home.

An alarm system can be easily installed to provide 24 hour support, 365 days a year. The alarm and monitoring system is available for anyone with a long-term or short-term medical condition, those feeling vulnerable or isolated or those with a learning disability or mental health condition.

Equipment to make life easier The Equipment Advice Service is on hand to provide aids and supports to make independent living as comfortable as possible. Whether it’s help getting in and out of a shower or bath or assistance to climb out of the car, there are a wide range of aids available. There is even an Independent Living House in Spennymoor which showcases all of the equipment available. Give The Equipment Advice Service a call on 03000 265 667, or email equipmentadvice@durham.gov.uk to discuss your needs. You can also make an appointment to visit the Independent Living House to try out the products available.

Stay safe and independent at home with our local 24/7 service ‘right up your street’ Care Connect One ‘press’ of the button for immediate assistance Never far away from local support New technology Emergency response to your door Choice of service Trained local staff always on hand

For further information regarding the Care Connect service please visit our website at www.durham.gov.uk/careconnect or telephone 03000 262 195 or email care.connect@durham.gov.uk Images c Tunstal Healthcare (UK) Ltd.

Getting on the right path Caring for someone with complex needs is never easy. Finding a safe place for your loved one to socialise, be entertained and mentally stimulated in a safe environment can be a struggle, which is where Pathways can help.

Pathways staff take the time to personalise care and tailor it to individual needs and specially adapted games and therapies are available. To find out more visit www.durham.gov.uk and search for Pathways.

12

Adults and health

Friendship and support lifeline Stephen was looking for a career change and learned about Shared Lives when he and his partner Richard holidayed with a friend.

After deciding to become Shared Lives providers, they were matched with people looking for a placement and asked to provide an emergency place for David when his elderly parents became unwell. He moved in just days before Christmas.

L-R: Stephen, David and Richard.

Making a difference to someone’s life Giving people with a learning disability the chance to live with another person or family on a long-term basis, or just for a few days, can be so important.

Stephen and Richard ‘pulled out all the stops’, providing one to one care, support and reassurance to David. They bought him Christmas presents and involved him in their family celebrations.

David is still living with Stephen and Richard, as his parents are no longer able to care for him. David still sees his family regularly and is thrilled with his new home.

As well as offering a safe home it can give them independence and help to develop new skills.

By becoming a ‘Shared Lives’ provider and offering a home for an adult in need of care and support, you can make a huge difference and be paid for your time and care.

If you are looking for a rewarding career and could offer a home to someone, find out more about Shared Lives by calling 03000 265 198 or email shared.lives@durham.gov.uk

Not forgetting our carers!

If you care for a relative, friend or neighbour, providing an essential and valued service to them, your health and wellbeing is important too. Free high quality services and support for carers is provided by the following organisations. Get in touch with them to find out more.

18 Plus: Durham County Carers Support 0300 005 1213.

Under 18 Family Action: The Bridge Young Carers Service 0191 383 2520.

Adults and health

13

Durham, a beacon for business Over the last seven months, we have been working to promote our county to investors and businesses looking to relocate to or expand in the area.

Using the new brand, This is Durham, Place of Light, developed by Visit County Durham, we have been highlighting our county’s assets and challenging the misconceptions that still exist about Durham.

A county offering unique business support We have been working with Business Durham, who are responsible for economic development in the county, to provide advice and assistance to businesses working in and looking to relocate here.

Following the success of Atom Bank - the UK’s first digital only bank, which chose Durham as its base, we have also assisted customer contact company ResQ with a move to Seaham.

ResQ’s CEO Nick Marshall said: “The attitude was ‘What can we do to help you?’ It was so refreshing. Of course, there were barriers, but there was always a will to find ways to overcome them. ”

A breathtakingly beautiful county From the dazzling vistas of countryside and coast to the history and heritage of our towns and cities, Durham is a stunning county, with much to see and do as part of its vibrant cultural scene.

We are proud to host world class cultural programmes, such as the amazing Kynren an epic tale of England in Bishop Auckland and the UK’s largest outdoor light festival, Lumiere, which returns for its fifth edition in November 2017.

For more information about the Place of Light brand, visit www.durham.gov.uk/ PlaceofLight Watch a video about Place of Light at

www.durham.gov.uk/ dcn

14

And since their move to the county, ResQ has continued to grow, moving into extra office space this year as they look to create an extra 250 jobs on the Seaham site.

The attitude was “ ‘What can we do to help you?’ ”

We’ve also been working with small to medium size enterprises offering advice and support with one such company becoming the first tenant of our £3.4million office facility and business incubator, Salvus House.

Family-run communications firm Concision chose Salvus House because of its space, support network and closeness to the city centre.

CEO Daniel Roe said the new office space was an important part of his expansion plans: “Expanding our team is an important part of delivering value to our clients.

We’re glad to be based at Salvus House. It ...gives us the room gives our team more we need to continue space to collaborate.

In addition, we’re to grow. looking to take on another member of staff in the summer, and Salvus House gives us the room we need to continue to grow.”

“

Durham, a beacon for business

”

Spreading the message As part of the Place of Light brand the county has been showcased nationally with an event at The House of Commons in London, short films playing at key train stations including Kings Cross and Edinburgh and a number of articles in national newspapers and business publications.

Key figures have supported this activity, including former city banker Jonathan Ruffer pictured right, now well known for his transformation of Bishop Auckland. Mr Ruffer says the council’s supportive approach is refreshing to see, at a time when local authorities are not readily able to pour money into regeneration projects based around heritage and culture.

He said: “Durham County Council has been an astounding resource.

They have been really anxious to help in every way they can, especially on infrastructure. We could never think as big as we do without having a council, and Local Enterprise Partnership, that are so decisive, optimistic and open to the possibilities.”

An outstanding educational offer Durham is home to some of the country’s top performing schools.

Read more about our schools and how we’re making a difference to young lives on pages 8 and 9.

The people “of Durham have real integrity... ”

Support has also come from Lord Barnard, another former London executive and now titleholder of Teesdale’s Raby Castle and the surrounding estate.

The world-renowned Durham University completes the education circle, with a wealth of talented graduates. These academics benefit from this top-class education, and have chosen to build their careers in some of the county’s groundbreaking industries and successful businesses.

He said: “There is a sense of space in Durham and a feeling of freedom here and yet you are within easy reach of London and Edinburgh by rail.

I am only 20 minutes from the East Coast Main Line in one direction and in the same 20 minutes I can be walking in the Durham Dales with its unique mix of botany and wildlife.

“For many small and medium sized businesses quality of life for employees is really important. You can operate anywhere today with huge leaps forward in connectivity and transport links, but it is the people that make a place as much as the history and landscapes. The people of Durham have real integrity and reputation is crucial. Trust remains an essential part of doing business here.”

Durham, a beacon for business

15

NORTH Durham Sprucing up South Moor A programme which aims to keep County Durham communities clean and tidy has recently visited South Moor.

Stanley Area Action Partnership supported Operation Spruce Up which cleaned up and greened up Park Road, South Moor Road and the surrounding areas.

Find out more about Operation Spruce Up and where it’s visiting now at: www.durham.gov.uk/spruceup

Dementia friendly swimming It’s dementia awareness week in May so why don’t you join us at Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre for a dementia friendly swimming session?

Sessions take place every Wednesday from 11am to 12noon and are open to people living with dementia and their carers.

Free refreshments are available after each session.

Arson-hit play area officially opens after refurbishment A play area which was hit by arson has been officially reopened by schoolchildren.

We carried out a major refurbishment and extension of the facility at Catchgate, as part of a £1.75million investment in play areas across the county. However, not long after the work was completed last year, some of the new equipment was damaged by arson. The damaged equipment has now been replaced and the site has been officially re-opened by pupils from Catchgate Primary School.

The refurbished play area boasts a ground flush roundabout, which can be used by all children including those in wheelchairs or pushchairs. It also features new swings and climbing units suitable for children up to the age of 12.

16

North Durham news

Grassroots football nets major investment Grassroots football in Durham is set to benefit from a £630,000 investment at the former Roseberry College site in Newfield, Chester-le-Street.

The Premier League and the FA Facilities Fund, delivered by the Football Foundation, has awarded £293,000 for a new football community hub. Further funds have been provided via capital receipts from nearby housing developments, match funding from the council and contributions from Neighbourhood Budgets.

Work has now started on the construction of a four team changing facility, refurbishment of the artificial grass pitch and replacement of security fencing to protect the existing grass pitches on-site.

CENTRAL and EAST Durham

Tea and friendship for the over 55s Tea parties for the over 55s are helping to combat loneliness.

Organised by Durham University Student Community Action, the free get-togethers provide tea and cake with entertainment from the students.

The next one takes place on Wednesday 21 June at St Oswald’s Church Institute on Church Street in Durham City between 2pm and 4pm.

Find out more 0191 334 1797, or email teaparties.sca@durham.ac.uk

Village Plans are a tremendous success A three year plan to tackle issues highlighted by residents living in Mid Durham villages has seen £2.6million investment into the area.

Following consultation with local residents, the Mid Durham Area Action Partnership devised Village Action Plans for Lanchester, Castleside, Esh Winning, Ushaw

Work has recently been completed in the North Road area and is scheduled to take place in the summer at Old Elvet Bridge and Owengate.

The partnership is planning to start the project again with drop-in sessions taking place in June and July.

Find out more 07818 510 370, or email mdaap@durham.gov.uk

Celebrating a true County Durham hero

The 37-year-old’s Victoria Cross citation reads. “It was impossible, during daylight, to send out a stretcher party, but Private Heaviside at once volunteered to carry water and food to the wounded man, despite the enemy fire, ... The arrival of the water undoubtedly saved his life.”

Now, 100 years since his act of gallantry, the son of a colliery inspector has become the latest County Durham hero to see a commemorative stone unveiled in his honour.

ce

For four days and three nights the soldier lay badly wounded, trapped in ‘no man’s land’ as the Battle of Arras raged around him. Sixty yards away, his comrades dare not raise their heads above the parapet - a hail of German bullets awaiting any who left their trench. Yet one man - 15 DLI’s Private Michael Heaviside, a County Durham miner - would not leave his fellow soldier to suffer.

Record Offi

Improvements to paving in the city’s conservation areas are continuing.

More than 1,300 residents gave their input, bringing forward a total of 469 issues.

photo: Dur ham County

Durham City paving works

Moor, Brandon and Langley Moor. Joining forces with partner agencies, issues such as dog fouling, access to community buildings and pot holes were tackled with 75 per cent of all problems raised being dealt with.

A service took place at St Giles’ Church in Gilesgate - the parish in which he was born - on Saturday 6 May. More commemorations are set to take place in Craghead on Wednesday 12 July, to celebrate the anniversary of his return from the war.

Central and East Durham news

17

SOUTH and WEST Durham Boost for life saving equipment Newton Aycliffe and the surrounding communities are set to benefit from potentially lifesaving defibrillators thanks to a new project supported by the Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership.

Working in partnership with Woodham Village Community Association the project will see the purchase of six defibrillator units at Woodham Community Centre, Pioneering Care Centre, Greenfield Community College and The Bay Horse in Middridge Village. A fifth portable unit will be located at Greenfield Convenience Store and a sixth unit will be held at Woodham Community Centre to be used as a back-up. A training and awareness programme will also be delivered as part of the project.

New centre to support addiction recovery A new centre for people seeking help for drug and alcohol addiction has officially opened in Bishop Auckland.

Saddler House Recovery Centre has been funded by the council and Public Health England. It provides a new base for County Durham Drug and Alcohol Service managed by Lifeline Project, a national charity specialising in substance misuse services. The centre, situated near the bus station, will provide immediate support for those suffering with drug and alcohol problems and their families.

Major supermarket boost for Spennymoor Supermarket Aldi has confirmed an interest in the redevelopment proposals for Festival Walk in the town.

Proposals for the scheme, being brought forward by Hellens Group, will see a large part of the existing shopping centre demolished to make way for one large retail unit. Remaining shops will be modernised with ÂŁ600,000 council funding to demolish a section of the site to make way for the creation of a new town centre car park. Local road junctions will also be improved to allow for better access.

18

South and West Durham news

Funding is music to the ears An aspiring community brass band is flourishing thanks to funding to buy more instruments, encouraging more people to learn to play.

Fishburn Academy Band was formed in 2014 to give budding musicians living in the area the chance to learn a brass instrument. Now the band is ready to welcome more players than ever thanks to more than ÂŁ7,000 funding from The East Durham Rural Corridor Area Action Partnerships.

Join them for rehearsals on Monday evenings in term time, between 7pm and 8.30pm at the Fishburn Band Room. www.fishburnacademyband.org

Bishop A uckland improve ments

The fina l phase of road footpath and improve m e nts to Bishop A uckland M a rket Place is nearing complet ion.

For the la test info rmation go to www.du rham.go v.uk/ bishopw orks

No change to services during works

Shildon to host Health Express hub An innovative new approach to community health and wellbeing is being launched in Shildon. The Health Express hub is being developed in Rest House, Hackworth Park and aims to help residents to live longer, be healthier and lead happier, more fulfilled lives.

An extensive renovation of the Rest House building will take place to provide Health Express with a base in the town. The building will serve as a community hub, not only for the residents of Shildon, but also for neighbouring towns. A minibus will help with transport.

Rest House will be the main hub for activities including college in the community sessions and health clinics.

Our library and customer access point in Crook will remain open as normal while work takes place at the Civic Centre.

Crook will be the first of four of our main sites to have its facilities updated under our Inspire Programme, which aims to ensure we’re making the most efficient use of our buildings.

The work will take place between September and November and the majority of our staff will need to move out of the building while this takes place.

Carry on at your convenience in Bishop Auckland

It is anticipated that about 300 employees will eventually be based at the site once the works are complete.

Residents and visitors to Bishop Auckland will find it more convenient to use facilities in the town in future with the roll out of the Bishop Auckland Community Toilet Scheme.

Several local businesses have initially signed up to the partnership to increase the availability of clean, safe, free and accessible facilities for use during normal opening hours without the need to make a purchase. Several of the participating premises also offer wheelchair access and baby changing facilities.

The businesses already signed up are:

• • •

Asda No.42 Time For You Tea Room, Four Clocks Centre

• • •

Newgate Shopping Centre Sam Zair’s Café Fifteas Tea Room

Know what you’re drinking Highlighting the effects of energy drinks is the aim of a new project set up by the Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership.

The HYPER project will educate families via schools, doctors surgeries and other community groups about the effects of energy drinks, caffeine overdose and type two diabetes being two of the more serious side effects. It’s being run in partnership with Durham Drug and Alcohol Service, Lifeline Project, Public Health and Durham University.

Gardens open to raise funds Residents in Staindrop are opening up their gardens to raise funds for a local church.

Homes clustered around the village green include a former mill and manor house and will welcome members of the public on Sunday 25 June between 2pm and 5pm.

Refreshments will be available in nearby Scarth Hall. £5 for adults and free for accompanied children with all funds going to St Mary’s Parish Church.

01833 660 203, or email scarthhall@gmail.com

South and West Durham news

19

NEWS Free childcare for working parents From September 2017, the Government will offer parents of three and four-year-olds an extra 15 hours of free childcare per week to help them to continue working, or to take up employment. This can either be taken as 30 hours over 38 weeks of the year (school term-time) or spread across the full year.

7 12:53 To Page be1eligible

parents must earn, or expect to earn, the equivalent to 16 hours at National Minimum or Living Wage (as a minimum) for the first three months following application, and less than ÂŁ100,000 per year.

Childcare will be available in schools, nurseries, childminders or through a combination of these.

Find out more and register your interest at www.durham.gov.uk/earlyyears

Find support for a child with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities, all in one place www.countydurhamfamilies.info

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

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News

Top picks for summer 2017 You

ing across ppen a h his summ nts r gui County Durham t er de to the major eve .

Rod Stewart Friday 9 June Emirates Riverside in Chester-le-Street.

Mega star Rod brings his Hits Tour to the region. www.durhamccc.co.uk

Durham City Run Wednesday 19 July Durham Regatta Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 June Crews from around the world will be competing on the picturesque River Wear. Entertainment from bands and performers, along with a great selection of stalls to browse and local foods, make it a brilliant family event. www.durham-regatta.org.uk

Marras Festival Friday 7 and Saturday 8 July Join The Lightning Seeds and The Lake Poets for Durham’s inaugural two day music event The Marras Festival. www.marrasfestival.co.uk

Durham Miners’ Gala Saturday 8 July Remember the county’s mining heritage and see some spectacular marching bands and banners in Durham City. www.durhamminers.org

Thousands of runners are expected to turn out for the second annual Prince Bishops Durham City Run this summer featuring 5K and 10K races. www.durhamcityrun.com

Kynren - an epic tale of England Saturday 1 July to Saturday 16 September Eleven Arches’ Kynren - an epic tale of England returns to Bishop Auckland and the night-time spectacular is set to be bigger, better and brighter than ever. www.elevenarches.org

Hardwick Live Friday 18 and Saturday 19 August Returning this summer, with a huge line-up of high profile acts. www.hardwicklive.co.uk

a pair of tickets for Hardwick Live To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets for this year’s Hardwick Live tell us: Which area of the country do the Hotpots take their name from? ............................................................................

Address ............................................................

Name ................................................................

............................................................................

Tel ......................................................................

Postcode . . ........................................................

Email .................................................................

See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Turn over for more great events and things to do Top picks for summer

21

The Bowes Museum celebrates 125 years 2017 is an exciting year for The Bowes Museum.

Named after its founders John and Joséphine Bowes, the beautiful French style château opened to the public in June 1892 and will salute its birthday with a day of celebrations.

Join in on Saturday 10 June to mark the anniversary with a day of festivities for all the family in the museum and grounds, commemorating this milestone in history.

Entertainment will include an anniversary picnic, live music, activities for children, and curators will give talks on their favourite items from the collections.

Combined admission to museum and grounds will be £2.50 per adult with children free.

Throughout the summer House of Fairy Tales, the national children’s arts charity, presents two exhibitions at the museum: Tiptoe Through the [Turkish] Tulips is an

The Clockwork Garden

Tulip ‘Helen Josephine’ (rose breeder) 1975,

by Rory McEwan, watercolour on vellum

Summer exhibitions at the museum

exquisite and engaging trail, linked to items from the museum collection, viewed through the eyes of contemporary artist Gavin Turk in collaboration with other renowned British artists including Damien Hirst. In an interactive experience which challenges visitors to see things in new ways, the familiar becomes the unfamiliar as the tulip’s role in history is played out in a tale of romance, beauty, obsession, inequality, and extravagance.

22

Top picks for summer

- the 125th anniversary offers an ideal opportunity to look to the future with this bewitching show, which promises a magical experience for the young and young at heart. Flying in from somewhere far out in space, a strange mechanical seed has landed in our temporary exhibition gallery to fill it with this beautiful, interactive exhibition.

It needs to learn the secrets that make our earthly gardens so full of life, joy and beauty, to take back to its own planet. But will the ominous Orange Moon and its shadowy Mechanised Grizzlies find the seed before it’s ready to return?

Both exhibitions open on 29 July, while on 30 and 31 July House of Fairy Tales will be visiting the museum for an opening event engaging families with enticing tasks and games relating to the exhibitions. Tickets for these events will be available online nearer the date.

Find out more about all celebratory events www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk 01833 690 606

BRASS is back!

Durham’s popular BRASS Festival returns across County Durham for its 11th year celebrating the best of brass from soul to jazz to traditional and classical.

Our week-long festival showcases the broadest possible range of brass music, from Broadway to 17th Century Venice.

West End stars Matt Corner (Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys) and Kate Graham (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Billy Elliot) who hail from the North East, perform BRASS on Broadway with the Scottish Swing Orchestra and the BRASS Broadway Chorus on Sunday 9 July (Gala Theatre) with swing versions of classic Broadway songs from Anything Goes, Hairspray, Chicago, West Side Story and many more.

BRASS celebrates the 100th anniversary of one of the greatest jazz trumpeters of all time, Dizzy Gillespie on Thursday 13 July (Gala Theatre) as the legendary BBC Big Band pays homage to his contribution to jazz, alongside that of other great brass players and band leaders from Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey to Maynard Fergusson and Quincy Jones.

Venetian Surround Sound brings together Durham Cathedral Choir with early music virtuosos His Majesty’s Sagbutts & Cornetts to perform a tailor made concert programme designed to the acoustics and layout of Durham Cathedral on Friday 14 July.

In a unique celebration of brass and voice, a spectacular new version of William Walton’s thrilling Belshazzar’s Feast will be performed by brass bands and choral societies on Saturday 15 July (Durham Cathedral). The concert will feature the Reg Vardy Band and a special Festival Chorus.

And this year Durham BRASS Festival presents the world’s best brass band: The Cory Band on Sunday 16 July, (Gala Theatre) presenting the best traditional brass band music that took them to the ‘Grand Slam’ of contest titles.

BRASS 2017 will also bring you the fantastic Big BRASS Bus tour which goes on the road around the North East in July.

Book online at www.brassfestival.co.uk Watch highlights of last year’s events at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

A perennial favourite, with international street bands transforming Durham’s World Heritage centre into the ‘Home of Street BRASS’ for two days of fun, frolics and musical madness including Oompah Brass, Mr Wilson’s Second Liners and newcomers Backchat Brass.

Top picks for summer

23

Out and about on a budget Have you ever truly explored what is on your doorstep? Why not grab a packed lunch, embrace the summer sunshine and check out our county’s stunning landscape and captivating art? Most things are free or cost very little for a great day out!

Nestled in th e rolling Wea rdale hills sits the miniature picture post card village of Ireshopeb urn. Eye-sup -burn, as it’s pronounced locally, is ho me to High House Chap el, the world ’s oldest purpose buil t Methodist c hapel to have continu ous weekly se rvices. d of course not Rat, Badger, Mole an el at Toad Hall would fe forgetting Toad of Barnes side of one of Low e th at d le dd hu e hom -le-Wear. ree lakes at Witton Nature Reserve’s th terest, special scientific in of e sit d te na sig A de with s may be rewarded more patient visitor t sighting. an otter, fox or stoa

If you were lucky enough to catch Teesdale’s magnificent light projection, Waterfall, last year then be sure to look out for Louise Plant’s Ps in a Pod, The Same and Different from Saturday 27 May. The sculptures are hot on the heels of Steve Messam’s headline grabbing outdoor art which transformed three whitewashed barns into the flowing waters of High and Low Force waterfalls.

Once upon a tim e there were thou sands of coke ovens in Cou nty Durham, an im portant part of the area’s industrial heritag e. Inkerman Beehive Coke O vens lie at Tow La w . Check them out and visi t the town which inspired Mark Knopfler to write Hill Farmer ’s Blues.

Norman Cornish is one of the most celebrated mining artists.

His appeal comes from his keen eye for the everyday activities of the Durham mining communities.

The Ps in a Pod will feature numerous standalone cast iron sculptures which are arranged differently depending on their surroundings.

Over the next year the Ps will be available to view in four locations around the county starting at Nose’s Point, Seaham before moving to Wharton Park in Durham, Bishop Auckland and Hamsterley Forest.

We’ll be working with schools in each of the areas to deliver drama and dance workshops linked with the project.

New to Spennymoor Town Hall, his home town In Seaham the sculptures will sit at the far end of , is the Norman Cornish Nose’s Point Car Park on the Headland.

Studio. A wonderful Please note: For more information check out opportunity to There may be a small charge for some www.durham.gov.uk/psinapod see his working area. attractions and some will charge for parking.

The majority of sites are accessible.

24

Out and about

for the

nts 4 June, eve y a d n u S l ine y unti rday 27 Ma g our beautiful coastl From Satu n lo val. ing place a Coast Festi e g will be tak ta ri e H ur 2017 as part of o

47km of cy cle route h a been insta lled as part s o f th National C ycle Netwo e rk

Outdoor f estival 20 17

gether ns came to o ti a is n a 14 org 2 to form 97 and 200 9 1 n e e tw ership be Tide Partn e h T g in rn the Tu am’s coast rh u D te ra e to regen

Toddle around the Dene Thursday 1 June is International Children’s Day so why not join us with your little ones for a toddle around Castle Eden Dene? Older siblings are welcome. Meet at Oakerside Dene Lodge in Peterlee at 11am.

ile for a nine m s u g in in lk st can by jo otpath Wa out the coa ? Well you b e a in rn tl s a a e o L . c Coastal Fo y . e a walking th nday 28 M e see today u d w S ie t s c n a n o o fa n c r o e e d Ev Crim st to th get more Dawdon to dustrial pa in s it m o ur place or walk from fr o y d k e o rg o e B . m has e ed lunch and how it and a pack r a e tw o fo y 268 131 Bring sturd ing: 03000 ll a c y b n o Nose’s Poin informati t is south of Se situated just a once the lo ham and was cation of D awdon Colliery – th Drawing o e mainstay n the beac of Dawdon’s h On Saturda economy y 27 May jo in artist So Nixon for a phy n art walk a long the be Seaham be auti ach coastlin e. Don’t forg ful your sketch et pad, pencil s and colou Meet at Se rs aham Hall beach car p .

10am to 12 ark. noon. rummage Rock pool nd mage arou m ru a r fo s Join u e tide k pools as th nd c ro ’s m a h Sea lies arou d see what n a t u o s et, net e go ring a buck B . e n li re o h Acre the s eet at Red M . s ie ll e w and errace at on North T s p te s h ay. c a Be unday 28 M 11am on S

Sea glass s afari Join sea gla ss artist Stu art Langley down on th e beach co ll ecting sea glass on M onday 29 M ay. Make a keepsake to take home with you.

Meet at Ea sington Co lliery Band Book your Room. place or ge t more informatio n by calling : 03000 268 131

Bringing the beach to you Beach themed games, crafts, boats and shell art will keep little ones entertained on Tuesday 30 May. The fun takes place between 1pm and 3pm at Cotsford Park in Horden. is g of events A full listin : y visiting available b org tagecoast. ri e h m a rh www.du

Out and about

25

May to July

May to July

WHAT’S ON Until Saturday 3 June 11am to 3pm Exhibition of artwork: ‘Seaside’ Art Block, 74 Church Street, Seaham By children from Acre Rigg Infants School working with East Durham Artists Network. Free. 0191 649 9431 (Art Block opening times only).

Saturday 27 May, 10am to 6pm Mini Golf Course ‘A Journey Through Teesdale’ Barnard Castle, Scar Top Open, weather permitting, weekends, bank holidays and school holidays. £3. 01833 690 970 www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk Saturday 27 May, 2.30pm to 3.30pm World War I Lecture Series: Home Comforts: The Role of the Red Cross Auxiliary Hospitals The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Booking required. £3. 01833 690 606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Until Saturday 10 June, 10am Monday to Saturday and 12.30pm Sunday Open Treasure - Beasts!

The Collections Gallery, Durham Cathedral An exhibition of weird and wonderful beasts. £2.50-£7.50. www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/ whatson/beasts

REGULAR Events

Every first Saturday of the month, 10am to 12noon Wildlife Watch Low Barnes, Nature Reserve, Witton-le-Wear, Bishop Auckland Learn about all things wild with a different theme each month. £1. Booking required.

0191 584 3112 www.durhamwt.com Tuesdays, 7.15pm Peterlee Chess Club Peterlee Labour Club, Manor Way Every Tuesday throughout the year, everyone welcome from beginners to masters. www.peterlee chessclub.co.uk

26

What’s on

Saturday 27 May, 5am Durham Cathedral Photography Morning Durham Cathedral Spend a morning with your camera inside Durham Cathedral. (No flash permitted). £10 per camera. www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Saturday 27 May, 10.30am Sheep Shearing Hall Hill Farm Sheep shearer demonstrations throughout the day. £7.50-£7.95.

01388 731 333 www.hallhillfarm.co.uk

a family membership for up to 6 people to Hall Hill Farm Question: How many hectares of land does Hall Hill Farm cover? ...............................................................................

Name ...................................................................

Tel .........................................................................

Email ....................................................................

Address ............................................................... ............................................................................... ...............................................................................

Postcode . . ..............................

See page 2 for entry details.

Fill in the form or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Saturday 27 May, 8pm Meet Weekend Comedy Gala The Witham, Barnard Castle Host Patrick Monahan with Carl Hutchinson, Fin Taylor and George Rigden. £10-£12. 01833 650 930 www.funnywaytobe.com Saturday 27 May, 11am Mighty Wurlitzer Annual Fete New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Music of the Mighty Wurlitzer and guest Stuart Wright’s continental street organ. Free. 01388 762 467 www.netoa.org.uk Saturday 27 May and Saturday 24 June, 10am Wood Club Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Join our forest school practitioner to spend some quality family time in the woods. Booking required. £10 per family. 03000 262 845 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Sunday 28 May to Monday 29 May Durham Pride Durham City, see page 3 Free event. www.durhamprideuk.org Sunday 28 May, 9am Durham Rambling Club Haltwhistle Three hikes in the Haltwhistle area, 12, 9 and 6 mile walks. Booking required. £10 per person coach fare. Coach picks up at various locations in and around Durham City. 07706 871 812 www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk Sunday 28 May, 11am to 4pm Flower Power Fair Raby Castle Coach Yard Northern plant growers and nurseries offer a wide choice of plants. £5.

01833 660 202 www.rabycastle.com From Sunday 28 May, 10am to 5pm Fairly Tale Week Crook Hall and Gardens Meet fairy tale characters brought to life.

Adults £7.50, children £5. 0191 384 8028 www.crookhallgardens.co.uk

Sunday 28 May and Sunday 23 July, 10.30am Blacksmith Workshops Killhope Learn the skills of a blacksmith and make your own fire poker. £50 including lunch. 01388 537 505 www.killhope.org.uk Sunday 28 May Foraging for wild food Harehope Quarry, Frosterley With qualified wild food forager, Bruce Ferguson. Booking required. £15.

01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk

Wednesday 31 May, 10.30am Fantastic Founders - John & Joséphine Bowes The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Learn about the founders of the museum. Free for children, must be accompanied by an adult (normal admission applies). 01833 690 606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Wednesday 31 May, 1.30pm Wilderness Survival Challenge Hamsterley Forest Booking required. £10 per person.

(Must be 8 years to 16 years old.)

01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk

Tuesday 30 May, 11am to 4pm Ready, Steady, Action!

Family fun day The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle A fun packed day of drop-in activities.

Free for children, must be accompanied by an adult (normal admission applies).

01833 690 606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Tuesday 30 May, 11am Bird-themed open day Wynch Bridge End Cottage Collect a map from Bowlees Visitor Centre and stroll across the River Tees to find us. Free. 01833 622 374 www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. blogspot.co.uk Wednesday 31 May, 11am Dragons and Unicorns Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Create a dragon or unicorn to take home in this fun indoor craft activity. £3 per child, adults free.

03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Wednesday 31 May, 2pm to 3.30pm Family Roller Disco Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington Suitable for all ages. £3. 01388 747 000 www.spectrumleisurecentre.com

Every Sunday during June, July and August, 1pm Brass Summer Concerts Outdoor amphitheatre, Wharton Park Free. 03000 266 749 www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark Thursday 1 June to Tuesday 4 June, 10am to 5pm Beamish Georgian Fair Pockerley Waggonway, Beamish Museum All the fun of a traditional fair.

Admission included in museum admission charge £11-£19.

0191 370 4000 www.beamish.org.uk

Thursday 1 June, 2pm to 3.30pm Bounce and soft play Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington For children up to 5 years, football for children up to 9 years. £3.

01388 747 000 www.spectrumleisurecentre.com Thursday 1 June, 2pm Durham Flower Club Sherburn Community Village Hall Strictly Jeanius demonstration by Jean McClure. £5 (annual membership £25).

Thursday 1 June, 7.30pm Bolshoi Ballet: A Contemporary Evening (recorded performance) (12A) The Witham, Barnard Castle £8 to £15. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk Thursday 1 June to Friday 2 June, 10am and 1.30pm Fun with clay The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Make your own clay creation. Booking required. £4.50 per child (free for accompanying adult). 01833 690 606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Friday 2 June, 2.30pm and 7.30pm Animaniacs Gala Theatre, Durham Music and dance from your favourite children’s films. £8 to £10.

03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk Friday 2 June, 7pm The Armed Man (chamber version)

by Karl Jenkins; The Coronation Anthems by G.F. Handel Bishop Auckland Town Hall £3-£8. Tickets available on the door or by calling 01388 834 359 or 01325 360 514. www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk

What’s on

27

May to July

WHAT’S ON Friday 2 June, 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm Fairy Magic Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Build your own fairy door.

Booking required. £6 per child, adults free. 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Friday 2 June, 7pm Gentleman’s dinner Ramside Hall Hotel Includes three course dinner and entertainment. £50. 0191 386 1170 ext 5 www.stcuthbertshospice.com

Monday 5 June to Tuesday 27 June, 10am Stephen Bainbridge Exhibition Locomotion, The National Railway Museum at Shildon Artist specialising in railway scenes of the steam era and landscapes. Free.

01388 777 999

Friday 2 June, 2.15pm Gallery Talk The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle St Luke Drawing the Virgin and Child by the workshop of Dieric Bouts.

Included in admission charge to the museum. 01833 690 606 www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Tuesday 6 June until Saturday 1 July, 11am to 3pm Exhibition: ‘Details’ Art Block, 74 Church Street, Seaham

By East Durham Artists Network members, Jean Lowes and Neida Pearson. Free. 0191 649 9431

Every Saturday and Wednesday from 3 June, 2pm Open day at St Mary’s Church, Seaham Free.

Wednesday 7 June, 2pm to 5pm Treasures of Widdybank Fell Cow Green Reservoir, Moor House A guided walk along the nature trail at Widdybank Fell. Easy 3 mile walk.

Bring warm, waterproof clothing.

No dogs. Donations. 01833 622 374 www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. blogspot.co.uk

Saturday 3 June, 7.30pm Carmen St Brandon’s Church, Brancepeth A semi-staged production of Bizet’s popular opera ‘Carmen’ by Teesside’s Opera Nova. Tickets available in advance or on the door, £1-£12. 01642 807 033, 07872 339 167 or 07936 080 535 www.operanova.org.uk Saturday 3 June, 3pm to 9am Family Bushcrafts Sleepover Hamsterley Forest Set up a tarp shelter, light a fire, cook a meal and sleep out in the wild woods with qualified leader Bruce Ferguson. £15-£60. 01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk Sunday 4 June, 8.30am until 12.30pm Sedgefield Farmers Market Sedgefield Village Green Quality local produce. Free entry.

Monday 5 June, 7.30pm Bolshoi Ballet: A Hero of our Time (recorded performance) (12A) The Witham, Barnard Castle £8 to £15. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk

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What’s on

Wednesday 7 June, 7.15pm Royal Opera House Live: The Dream/Symphonic Variations/Marguerite and Armand The Witham, Barnard Castle £8-£15. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk Thursday 8 June, 7pm The Mighty Wurlitzer New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Friends of NETOA play. £3.

01388 762 467 www.netoa.org.uk Friday 9 June, 10am to 1pm More Spring Birds Around Widdybank, Moor House Easy to moderate grade with some stiles. Bring supplies for a rest at Widdybank. 01833 622 374 www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. blogspot.co.uk

Saturday 10 June, NT Live: Peter Pan (Encore) (PG) The Witham, Barnard Castle, 2pm £12-£14. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk Gala Theatre, Durham, 2.30pm £13-£15, 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk Saturday 10 June, 7.30pm Gyles Brandreth - Looking for Happiness The Witham, Barnard Castle £20. 01833 650 930 www.funnywaytobe.com Saturday 10 June Survive the Hunger Games Harehope Quarry, Frosterley Make a bow and learn to use it, and much more... £80 per person (age 12 to 16 only). Booking required.

01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk Sunday 11 June Durham Rambling Club Alnmouth Three hikes finishing in Alnmouth, 12 miles, 9 and 6 mile walks. £10 per person coach fare. Coach picks up at various locations in and around Durham City. 09906 871 812 www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk Sunday 11 June at 2.30pm and Monday 12 June to Saturday 17 June, 7.30pm My Cousin Rachel (play) The City Theatre, Fowlers Yard, Durham Adaptation of Daphne DuMaurier classic. £6.50-£7.50 (Available from Gala box office).

Tuesday 13 June, 7.30pm Exhibition on screen: Michelangelo: Love and Death The Witham, Barnard Castle Full and fresh biography of Michelangelo. £12-£14.

01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk

Perfect for Father’s Day

Wednesday 14 June, 2pm Derwent Valley Flower Club Dene Court Communal Room, Hamsterley Summer magic flower demonstration by Val Guest. £4. 01207 505 576 Wednesday 14 June to Saturday 17 June, 7.15pm Spamalot Park View Theatre, Chester-le-Street £8-£10.

0191 388 3362, 07468 607 420 www.dryburntheatricalworkshop. ticketsource.co.uk Wednesday 14, Thursday 15, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 June, 10am and 1pm Toddler Tales and Trails Aliens Love Underpants Wharton Park Storytelling, crafts and a park trail for 2-5 year olds. £4.

03000 266 749 www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark

Wednesday 14 and Saturday 17 June, 10am and 1pm Toddler Tales and Trails Postman Bear Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Family fun sessions for younger children (2-5 years). Booking required. 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Thursday 15 June, 7.30pm Dunelm Flower Club Durham High School for Girls, South Road Susan Hall from Saltburn demonstrates ‘memories’.

Visitors welcome. £5.

Thursday 15 June, 7.30pm Someone Like You The Adele Songbook Empire Theatre, Consett Katie Markham recreates the magic of the record-breaking albums. £20.

Box Office: 01207 218 171 www.leisureworks.net Friday 16 June The Rat Pack - with Anita Harris Alun Armstrong Theatre - Civic Hall Stanley Direct from London’s Leicester Square Theatre. Music of Sinatra, Martin and Davis. £19-£20.

01207 299 110 www.civichallstanley.co.uk

a pair of tickets to Gyles Brandreth - Looking for Happiness Question: On which BBC show does Gyles Brandreth appear as a reporter? ........................................................................................................

Name .........................................................

.....................................................................

Tel ...............................................................

Postcode . . .................................................

Address .....................................................

Email ..........................................................

.....................................................................

See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Sunday 18 June, 10am to 5pm Brass at Beamish The Pit Village, Beamish Museum Regional brass band competition. Admission included in museum admission charge, £11 to £19. 0191 370 4000 www.beamish.org.uk Sunday 18 June, 10am Father’s Day Big Build Bright Woods Forest School, Barnard Castle Design your own woodland home and put your building skills to the test. £5-£6. www.facebook.com/suitcasestudiouk Sunday 18 June, 12noon to 5pm Father’s Day ‘Man Tea’ Crook Hall and Gardens Open as normal but if you want to treat your father call to book a place 0191 384 8028. www.crookhallgardens.co.uk/events Sunday 18 June, 10.30am to 3pm Father’s Day Hall Hill Farm Free entry for dad when accompanied by a paying child (2-15 years). £7.50 to £7.95. 01388 731 333 www.hallhillfarm.co.uk Sunday 18 June, 10am and 1pm Dad’s Den Building Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Build a den and a fire together. Advance booking required. £10 per family. 03000 262 845, 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Sunday 18 June, 10am to 4pm Classic Vehicle Show Raby Castle £2.50-£7. 01833 660 202 www.rabycastle.com Sunday 18 June, 1.30pm to 4.30pm Wilderness Survival Skills - Bushcraft Essentials Hamsterley Forest Learn the basics for survival in a forest environment with qualified bushcraft teacher, Bruce Ferguson. £30 per person. Age16+ (Parental consent required for under 18s).

Booking required. 01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk

What’s on

29

May to July

WHAT’S ON Saturday 17 June, 7pm Now That’s What I call the 60s Alun Armstrong Theatre Civic Hall Stanley Brenda Collins and Lee Brannigan, featuring songs from Cilla Black, Neil Diamond, The Beatles, Petula Clark and Roy Orbison. £18. 01207 299 110 www.civichallstanley.co.uk

Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm The Nick Ross Orchestra: Sounds of The Glenn Miller Era Empire Theatre, Consett £18.50-£20. Box office: 01207 218 171 www.leisureworks.net

Saturday 17 June, 12noon to 7pm Brass Band Competition Terrace Green, Marina and Church Street, Seaham Free public brass band performances.

0191 581 8034 www.seaham.gov.uk Saturday 17 June, 11am Colourama St Leonard’s Playing Field, Durham Non-competitive walk or run around a colourful 5k course. £12-£22.

0191 386 1170 ext 5. www.stcuthbertshospice.com

Wednesday 21 June, 2pm to 4pm Lanchester Flower Club monthly meeting Lanchester Community Centre Presentation and talk by Carly Jackson from Get Ahead Hats. Visitors £4.

01207 503 667

Saturday 17 June and Sunday 18 June, 11am to 4.30pm DCVCS Annual Rally Mainsforth Sports Complex, Ferryhill Station Vintage exhibits, craft marquee, tombola, trade stands, refreshments and licensed bar. £1-£3. 07957 092 453

Thursday 22 June, 7pm NT Live: Salomé (15) The Witham, Barnard Castle £12-£14. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk Gala Theatre, Durham £13-£15, 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk

Sunday 18 June, 11am to 3pm Wildathon Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve A day dedicated to all things wild. £3-£5 please book.

0191 584 3112 www.durhamwt.com

Thursday 22 June, 6pm Bishop Dunn Memorial Lecture: Bearing Scars and Forging Hope: The Church’s Flawed Expertise in Humanity Ushaw College Lecture followed by cheese and wine reception. Advance booking essential. £2-£12. 0191 334 1656 www.centreforcatholicstudies.co.uk

Monday 19 June, 7.15pm Sedgefield Family History Group Ceddesfeld Hall, Sedgefield Talk by Julie Allinson, “Stepping back to Stockton on Tees.” £2. www.clevelandfhs.org.uk

Friday 23 June, 10.30am to 11.30am Teesdale Aviation Day Service Barnard Castle Memorial Gardens, Galgate Free. 01833 690 970 www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk

Tuesday 20 June, 7.30pm Ferryhill, Sedgefield and District Flower Club Parish Hall, Sedgefield With Julie Cook ‘Coliding Colours.’

No charge for members, non-members £5. 07533 752 870

Saturday 24 June and Sunday 25 June, 10.30am to 4pm Barnard Castle 1940s Weekend Barnard Castle Some ticketed events from £10.

01833 690 970 www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk

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What’s on

Saturday 24 June, 12noon to 7pm Armed Forces Day Seaham Town Park, Stockton Road, Seaham Military parade and live music. Free.

0191 581 8034 www.seaham.gov.uk

Gala Theatre, Durham May Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly tribute promises an evening of rock ‘n’ roll greats

June The annual Blues Festival presents 12 fantastic acts over one day BBC broadcasters Martin Hughes-Games and Iolo Williams team up for an informative and amusing wildlife show

July Sir Ranulph Fiennes offers a personal journey through his life, from the early expeditions to his current Global Reach Challenge

For the full programme or to book tickets please visit www.galadurham.co.uk or call the box office on 03000 266 600

Saturday 24 June, 8pm Edinburgh Previews with John Kearns & Lauren Pattison The Witham, Barnard Castle £10 to £12. 01833 650 930 www.funnywaytobe.com Saturday 24 June, 9am 28th Durham Dales Challenge Wolsingham Masonic Hall £11-£14, includes refreshments on route, meal at finish, badge and certificate. 07919 108 036. Online entries only at www.sientries.co.uk Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm Durham Singers: Summer concert St Brandon’s Church, Brancepeth Includes music by Barber, Stanford, Chilcott, Britten and traditional folk songs. £12. 07790 148 062 www.durham-singers.org Sunday 25 June, 8am Durham Rambling Club Keswick Three hikes in the Keswick area, a 12, 9 and 6 mile walk. £10 per person coach fare. Coach picks up at various locations in and around Durham City.

07706 871 812 www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk Sunday 25 June, 2.30pm to 5pm The Mighty Wurlitzer New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Mighty Wurlitzer summer concert Featuring organist Scott Harrison. £8.

01388 762 467 www.netoa.org.uk Wednesday 28 June, 7.30pm Royal Opera House Live Presents: Othello The Witham, Barnard Castle £8-£15. 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk

Friday 30 June, 7.30pm Formerly Bucks Fizz Alun Armstrong Theatre - Civic Hall Stanley Featuring original members Cheryl Baker, Mike Nolan and Jay Aston. £21-£23.

01207 299 110 www.civichallstanley.co.uk Friday 30 June, 7.30pm Abba Mania Empire Theatre, Consett £18.50-£19.50. Box Office: 01207 218 171 www.leisureworks.net Friday 30 June and Saturday 1 July, 7pm JSLN Ballet with Variations of Pointe 2 Spennymoor Settlement’s Everyman Theatre Mixture of classical, modern and comedy ballet. £8-£12. 01388 816 430 www.spennymoorsettlement.co.uk

Bishop Auckland Town Hall June Happy Cats bring 30 years of rock and roll experience and garnish it with some good humour Art with Heart present Declaration an autobiographical comedy with storytelling and conversation

July Through the decades with Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly is an uplifting show that will entertain you with all the hits from the two greats Also don’t miss our Hilarity Bites comedy nights and film programme running throughout the season

Friday 30 June, 8pm A CHOIR! A VOICE! Summer concert Elvet Methodist Church, Durham Gospel, jazz, 50s/60s pop and musical theatre. £10 and £6 child tickets.

Available at the door.

Saturday 1 July, 10.00am to 4.30pm Cartas & Charters Family Fun Day! The Cloister Garth, Durham Cathedral A special family fun day to celebrate Magna Carta and the Forest Charters.

A free event open to all. No need to book. 0191 374 4070 education@durhamcathedral.co.uk

For the full listings please visit www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk or call 03000 269524

admission to Open Treasure for two adults and two children Question: What is the name of the family fun day? ..........................................................................................................................................

Name .....................................................................

.................................................................................

Tel ...........................................................................

Postcode . . .............................................................

Address .................................................................

Email ......................................................................

.................................................................................

See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

What’s on

31

Make ordinary moments

extraordinary

Foster

with Durham County Council Find out more at one of our drop-in information sessions: Saturday 20 May, 10am-2pm, County Hall, Durham Monday 5 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm, County Hall, Durham Thursday 15 June, 11am-1pm, Durham Town Hall

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03000 269 400 www.durham.gov.uk/fostering