In&Around December 2022

Looking to freshen up your home?

Weather it be something small, like changing the taps /cupboard door handles or a whole new kitchen or bathroom James Cornwell Interiors Ltd have you covered.

Quality craftmanship at an affordable price...

We o er refurbishments to fit your buget and requirements. We are working with ideal4finance.com

We couldn’t be happier with the kitchen and the work carried out by your team, the quality and attention to detail is second to none. From the start every time we asked for something we got it with no questions asked, nothing was a problem, every job was planned and organised down to the finest detail. We asked for a wow kitchen and that’s what we have

o ering a 0% finance* option making that dream home more obtainable. Why not speak to a member of our team about how you could possibly save up 20% o your new bathroom.

Satisfaction guaranteed...

At James Cornwell Interiors Ltd we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and carry extensive warranties on all of our work.

Come visit our showroom, we’re happy to guide you though or answer any questions that you may have.

Church Hall, Fawcett Hill Terrace, Craghead, County Durham, DH9 6EZ

We’re really feeling the Christmas spirit, and it’s reflected in a bumper amount of content! On the hunt for a Christmas activity? Skip straight to page 62 to find all of the best themed events in the North of Durham. If you’re looking for something to do that isn’t quite Christmas related, jump to page 60 for our review of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This month, lots has gone on in our local area. Read all about the huge investment we’ve had in County Durham on page 52, as well as St Cuthbert’s Hospice’s appeal for volunteers on page 10. We have loads of other news articles and fantastic events scattered through the rest of the magazine, which you could enjoy reading whilst snacking on a Gingerbread Man (you’ll find the recipe on page 56).

We hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We’ll be back in January for the first issue of 2023!!

Care Connect is a friendly, local service that supports people of all ages across our region.

on

Go

Contents Local News Places To Copy deadline for the January edition is December 15th Call Val on 0191 388 2698

READ ONLINE AT: ISSUE 205 December 2022 www.inandaroundmag.co.uk DIRECTORS Benjamin Kerry Joe Crooks MEDIA SALES Val Atkinson DESIGNER

Yip ACCOUNTS

Care Connect provides an essential lifeline to vulnerable people across County Durham.

When it comes to growing your business, promotion is everything. At IN&AROUND Magazine, we offer a range of advertising packages that put your brand in front of thousands of potential customers.

Our free magazine is delivered to over 20,000 homes and businesses across Chester-le-Street, Derwentside and Durham every month – and our readership continues to grow. With solutions to suit all budgets and requirements, from quarter pages to front page ads, we can help you make an impact. What’s more, with every order, we offer a complimentary design service to ensure that your messages are delivered in the most attractive and eye-catching manner possible.

Whether you’re launching a new product, running a promotion or would like to find out more about how IN&AROUND can work for you, call us on 0191 388 2698.

THE TEAM Congratulations to the previous competition winners, all winners have been notified Winners will be selected at random. The provider will only receive the details of winning entries in order to fulfil completion of the prize. COMPETITIONS Welcome to the December issue of IN&AROUND! COPYWRITERS Faye Rodgerson CONTRIBUTORS Alex Nelson Places to Go Magazine Distributed by Famous Flyers SPONSOR Care Connect PRINTED BY Jak HQ - jakhq.com WE’RE SOCIAL, FIND US: IN&AROUND MAGAZINE FSC approved IN&AROUND MAGAZINE Unit 4, Station Road, Chester-le-Street DH3 3DY T: 0191 388 2698

For further information: 03000 262 195 care.connect@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/careconnect

24/7 support at the press of a button

24/7 support at the press of a button

Our community alarm service helps give you peace of mind.

Worried about a loved one, but still keen to retain their independence?

Care Connect supports vulnerable people of all ages, providing a monitoring and response service to people’s homes 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering assistance and reassurance whenever it is needed. There is a charge for the service and this will be discussed upon enquiry. If you have a relative, neighbour or friend who is vulnerable or socially isolated, Care Connect could provide a vital service.

The service works by having an alarm unit with a pendant installed in the person’s home. The unit or pendant can be

pressed for assistance at anytime and this will place a call directly to Care Connect’s control room.

The service operates 24/7 so staff are always able to offer support and assistance, dispatch responders to someone’s home or contact the emergency services where necessary.

More than 11,000 households in County Durham are benefiting from the service, allowing people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

If additional support is required, numerous types of equipment called Telecare is available, including items for people at risk of falling, support for those with memory loss, or dementia, those

suffering with epilepsy, or those that are deaf or blind. If you don’t want an assessment of your support needs through Social Care Direct, don’t worry. You can always purchase directly from Care Connect

An example of the technology available is a fall detector, an unobtrusive device worn about the person which identifies a genuine fall and immediately alerts the control room so appropriate assistance can be provided.

For further information: 03000 262 195 care.connect@durham.gov.uk www.durham.gov.uk/careconnect

Care Connect

and response service provided by Durham County Council.

A lifeline unit is plugged into the home telephone point. The customer will receive a personal alarm pendant that’s worn around the neck or on a wrist strap.

If they ever need to raise the alarm, all they need to do is press that button and the service automatically knows who they are, where they live and will make sure the right help is sent to them.

Care Connect in three locations in County Durham, all which provide a 24-hour response.

Here’s what Care Connect customer Ken has to say about the service:

“My wife and I use Care Connect often, as she has been falling quite a lot lately. I couldn’t be without them because they arrive very quickly. If it wasn’t for Care Connect my wife and I might be in hospital as we have nobody else. They help us tremendously, they are excellent”.

Our Telecare Responders love their job, like Andrea.

“I have real job satisfaction; no two days are the same! It does require flexibility and the ability to adapt to different situations, however it is a

“Every day I meet so many different customers who benefit from Care Connect. It makes such a difference to each of those individual’s needs - I think helping people remain independent at home with support is really important in our community and I have such a sense of belonging in my job because of this.” How much it costs From

little as £5.38

you and your family could have peace of mind and the reassurance Care Connect provides. There is a one-off connection charge of £33.99 this will be advised at installation. There can be additional charge of £3.17 per week + VAT if a SIM card needs to be installed in the alarm unit.

Independence at home is very important, especially as we get older

St Cuthbert’s Hospice in ‘critical’ appeal for volunteers in County Durham

A much-loved Durham based charity has issued an appeal for volunteers in County Durham to come forward and lend a hand in their Charity Shops, or they may face temporary closures.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham cares for people with life-limiting illnesses, people who are at the end of life and people who have been bereaved. The charity must raise in excess of £2 million each year to provide these vital services for free. The eight charity shops across the county play a huge part in raising much needed funds.

Angela Lord, Hospice Sales Manager, said: “We’ve sadly seen a sharp drop in the number of charity shop volunteers since the start of the pandemic and it’s been a challenge to get back to levels that allow us to open the shops as usual. Some shops have had to close unexpectedly for short periods of time when we just haven’t had anyone available to help our, and it’s starting to impact on the income we can generate. It really is getting to a critical point for us.”

“We’re asking people in County Durham who can offer a few hours or possibly a couple of mornings or afternoons a week to come and join the team in any of our eight shops. You’ll meet lots of people when volunteering and maybe even learn some new skills.”

Volunteers can learn and develop a variety of skills, from helping on the shop floor or till, creating window displays and sorting stock or even helping to research, photograph and list items for online shopping sites. Volunteer applications are

welcomed by anyone age 13 or over. Full training is given to all new recruits.

Angela added: “Volunteer roles can provide transferrable skills and experience for people looking to gain paid employment as well as help to boost confidence. We find newly retired people also really enjoy volunteering in our shops and giving the gift of time while keeping active. All are welcome to apply and join our friendly teams. Our volunteers always tell us it’s so rewarding knowing that they are helping to raise funds for people in their communities who really need St Cuthbert’s care and support.”

Leslie Simpson has been a volunteer at the hospices Spennymoor charity shop for three years, but has volunteered for St Cuthbert’s for a total of nine years.

“I spend a few hours each week volunteering at the charity shop in Spennymoor. I enjoy the social side to volunteering, working the till and chatting with customers. You get to know the regular shoppers and it’s nice to have a catch up when they call in. It’s also a great feeling knowing that I’m helping the Hospice raise money through the sale of items that people kindly donated. I’d recommend volunteering to anyone who wants to fill some spare time by supporting a great local cause.”

Leslie Simpson in the Spennymoor Shop where he has volunteered for three years

In&Around gets to know Stairlift Express

What is included in the aftercare options you offer?

An 18 month warranty and a free service is included in the cost. We will continue to look after your stairlift on a yearly warranty scheme if you wish.

What are your favourite things about being a family run business?

We’re a family run business with strong family values, we love to see the positive effect our family has on other families.

Why should your customers consider a reconditioned stairlift, rather than buying new?

We offer both new and reconditioned stairlifts, depending on the individuals needs.

How would someone know if it’s time to get a stairlift?

If you’re struggling with the stairs, would a stairlift make your life easier? If the answer is yes give us a call, we are here to help you. How can your potential customers get their homes ready for an installation?

There are no structural changes required to install a stairlift as it fits directly onto the stairs, not the wall. If your’e considering a new stair carpet we suggest that it is fitted prior to the stairlift being installed.

What does the installation process look like?

From initial contact the installation is generally undertaken within a week. It takes approximately 90 minutes, and includes a full step by step safety demonstration ensuring the customer is completely happy with everything.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Our favourite part of the job is when people call us or leave a review to let us know the difference the stairlift has made to themselves, parents or grandparents lives.

Stairlift Express are based in County Durham and o er a Nationwide service. We are a family run business with over 20 years experience in the mobility industry and specialise in both new and reconditioned Acorn and Brooks stairlifts.

We have a range of quality stairlifts for sale at a ordable prices.

All used and reconditioned lifts are stripped down and fully refurbished by our expert team to an exceptionally high standard, making them look as good as new.

• The time commitment – every animal needs checked (and most need fed) every day. Dogs need walked (even in the rain); birds need time to fly; horses need mucked out; all animals need attention…

• The initial cost – some species are better kept in pairs or groups (i.e. rabbits); some need specialised houses (i.e. reptiles) – it’s not just the price of the animal

• The ongoing costs –vivaria use a lot of electricity; food; cat litter or bedding; and, of course, can you cover the vet bills if they get sick?

• Your lifecycle –you need to be free to look after them, making holidays etc more difficult to organise. You need to get a pet that fits your work pattern; hobbies and schedule.

• The future – all these considerations need to be for the long term. Some rodents may only live 2-3years, but dogs can easily be 15, cats 20+, parrots and tortoises can be 70+!

And always research the pet and breed that you are thinking of getting: their requirements and what to expect from them. If you are in any doubt, or wish to discuss things, feel free to make an appointment with us at the vets.

Map showing county’s rights of way reaches 70th birthday

A map which depicts thousands of miles of public rights of way which residents and visitors can make use of has reached its 70th birthday.

Durham County Council’s Definitive Map was created in November 1952. It is a legal record indicating the position and status of Public Rights of Way (PROW) across County Durham.

In 1949 the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 gave all county councils in England and Wales the duty of surveying and mapping all public rights of way in their area. The authorities needed to classify them as footpaths, bridleways or roads used as public paths.

The map started off as a paper map, which was housed in County Hall, and members of the public could come in and check the existence and status of a right of way. Since 2010 it has been accessible in a digital format on the council’s website.

Where the map shows a public right of way, the map is conclusive evidence that there was, at the relevant date, a highway as shown.

Cllr John Shuttleworth, the council’s Cabinet member for rural communities and highways, said: “The Definitive Map has been a brilliant resource for the

county since it was created 70 years ago. Thanks to modern technology our staff are able to continually update the map, meaning that members of the public can explore as much of our beautiful and historic county as possible.

“I’d encourage anyone looking to get out and experience more of the county’s landscape to have a look at the map and find out more.”

The council’s access and rights of way team looks after 2,200 miles of public rights of way across County Durham including footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways and byways.

The team is responsible for recording and maintaining the map, a legal record, by dealing with applications to move paths, close paths, or add new paths.

This includes applications to add historic bridle paths, each of which needs archive research of old documents.

The team is also responsible for maintenance –making sure paths are able to be used by the public, and enforcement – taking action where necessary against anyone who obstructs a public right of way.

Those who are looking to explore their area, but are unsure which paths have public rights and who is allowed to use them, can check using the Definitive Map. To check exactly where you have the legal right to go, visit www.durham.gov.uk/definitivemap

More details on public rights of way in County Durham are available at www.durham.gov.uk/prow

COURSEATNEWCOLLEGEDURHAM

If you are looking for a new challenge or want to boost your career prospects, New College Durham has a range of degrees and free* part time courses starting in January that could help you achieve your goals.

At NCD University Centre you can choose from foundation degrees in business & management, tourism and events management or supporting innovation in health and social care. There is also a part time top up degree in management on offer.

If you would like to study at university level but do not have the formal qualifications, an Access to Higher Education course could help you progress. This one-year course will provide

you with the skills you need to successfully study at a higher level. It is widely recognised as an entry qualification for degrees and many professional courses. The college has access to higher education diplomas in health and in humanities starting in January.

Spending time on an activity that you enjoy can improve your mental health and wellbeing. New College Durham has range of free* short courses for adults that can inspire a new hobby or interest. Choose from subjects such as interior design, photography and bakery.

If you would like to add a little sparkle to your CV, the college is also running a range of career based short courses including bookkeeping, counselling, personal training and beauty.

To find out more about the wide range of courses starting at New College Durham in January 2023 go to www.newdur.ac.uk or email help@newdur.ac.uk.

*Certain eligibility criteria apply. Find out more when you enquire or enrol.

Michael Bublé set to return to the North East

Multi-platinum selling global superstar Michael Bublé announces his highly anticipated return to the UK with ‘Higher’ next spring, Bublé’s first nationwide arena tour in more than four years.20 years after the release of his self-titled debut album. Bublé will be performing his most-loved hits and the greatest tracks from his

Michael Bublé, first signed his record deal with Reprise Records almost two decades ago and with the release of his new studio album in 2022, he continues his journey but with even more passion. First, he made a vow to himself to not only keep the flames of the great classics of the American Songbook alive and well-to not only breathe new life into them-but to bring his singular style, vocal power and his love to these timeless tunes.

Secondly, he was going to write number one pop hits that would become classics unto themselves.

Third and most crucial for him was to bring all this music together in concert and take his audiences on a special journey-to give them an evening they would never forget. Every night, he would sing his heart out, serenade them with beautiful love songs, make them laugh, cry, dance and enthrall sold out crowds in arenas and stadiums in countries around the world. He wanted his shows to be legendary.

Clearly, he has succeeded on all these fronts, even beyond his own wildest dreams. The multi-platinum singer/ songwriter/producer/humanitarian is officially a global phenomenon and shows no signs of slowing down as fans will hear with his new album and tour.

At

As a local family run business, we go the extra mile to take the stress and hassle out of getting a new kitchen. Our team were proud to receive a record number of positive Checktrade reviews in September from delighted customers. So, If you would like to find out why so many customers recommend us to friends and family, then get in touch!

BEFORE AFTER

With hundreds of colours and styles to choose from, as well as being able to produce doors and panels in any shape or size, we can create stunning made to measure kitchens to suit any taste!

Welcome to the world of

CONCEPT this Christmas

Saddler Street (formerly Wade Opticians) is now lovingly rebranded with frame collections responsive to the aspirations and desires of our clientele across the Durham community. Be assured. You will find something rather special here and, it’s waiting for you.

with higher expectations from independent eye care providers.

Located in the historic heart of Durham, you will find beautiful and exciting designer frames ready to be showcased for our discerning customers at a time when we are more mindful than ever of the cost of living. We’re delighted to advise that you can now take home your coveted pair of CHANEL’s and MOSCOT for the price of a coffee and cake because with our care plan’s we’ve integrated access to the very best in eye health care, spectacle choice, and lens technology.

Meet the friendliest team in the optical profession, led by the warmth and experience of Sam and Jo. Our practice on

“It’s all about trust. We’re seeing and looking after more new people coming through the door who quite rightly not only deserve and expect more for their money, but are looking for a more personalised service they would not receive from other high street opticians”

Sam, Practice Lead

Relationship is at the heart of what we do. At Concept from walking through the door to collecting your new glasses, an exemplary patient journey for spectacle wearers or curious browsers is what matters. People are more so than ever, cautious consumers

Designed with you in mind, the Concept Eye Care Programmes now offers more choice and is underpinned by affordability in an uncertain world. Each plan is bespoke to your needs. An intelligent interest free journey to help you purchase from our carefully sourced and latest collection Oliver Peoples, Barton Perreira, Tiffany, Jimmy Choo, Ray Ban and MOSCOT. We are proud that Concept is a key supplier of some of these brands in the North East.

Of course, it’s also about the health of your eyes. Your wellbeing is paramount. Your care plan gives you unparalleled access to an advanced diagnostic eye examination for complete peace of mind. The time is now to simply take advantage of the benefits waiting for you.

Christmas looks better with Concept.

Join us for mulled wine for our Concept Eye Clinic celebration. For every new club sign you will receive a gift and entry to a prize draw where you can win a frame from our Tom Ford, CHANEL and MOSCOT collection...

Recyke y’Bike Opens it’s doors!

Recyke y’Bike has officially opened the doors to its new shop and bike recycling centre on Ropery Lane in Chesterle-Street. Following a move from Durham this new location is an exciting new venture providing access and services to a new population.

Newcastle based charity Recyke y’Bike’s mission is to increase the number of people cycling and divert waste from landfill by refurbishing bikes giving people access to affordable good quality bikes and providing the skills and confidence to ride and maintain their bikes.

Donated adult, children and vintage bikes are refurbished by our qualified mechanics and volunteers to a high standard. Bikes are then sold with at least a three-month warranty through the Chester-le-Street shop. Income from bike sales and grant donations allows Recyke y’Bike to provide free bikes to people referred to them through various agencies. The shop is also able to carry out services for any bikes ranging from a puncture on a child’s bike to replacing a full hydraulic brake system on a high-end mountain bike.

The shop will also be used as a base for providing bike maintenance training, for example their monthly womenonly sessions happening every first Wednesday of the

month. Look out for details of their kids’ bikes sale at Bullion Hall. Recyke y’Bike also hope to replicate their successful Byker schools programme teaching children to repair bikes and increase their cycling confidence.

Phil Thomas, Chesterle-Street shop manager said, “We have been overwhelmed with the enthusiasm of local people and have already received a great number of donations and serviced many bikes hopefully getting people back out cycling.” Ben Hoare Recyke y’Bike’s chair of trustees says, “Cycling is a great way to keep travel costs down and keep fit at the same time.”

The shop is open for donations and sales Tuesday to Friday 9am to 4pm and Saturdays 10am to 4pm. Recyke y’Bike are always looking for volunteers to help in the shop, repair bikes or help out on their outreach projects in the community.

For further details contact Vanessa Montesi vanessa@recyke.bike or visit https://recyke.bike

wishing all our advertisers and readers a very from The team at

Get into your loft, and into the Christmas Spirit, safely this year!

Approximately 1,000 people a year are hurt when decorating their homes for Christmas each year according to RoSPA. Injuries include; children biting into glass baubles, adults falling whilst using unstable chairs instead of ladders to put up streamers and ceiling decorations, and, of course, falling out of lofts whilst looking for the Christmas decorations!

For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. Durham based loft ladder installer Access4Lofts (whose slogan is ‘creating space the easy way’) can change all that, often in less than a day! For extra peace of mind, Access4Lofts is an approved Which? Trusted Trader which means they have been assessed by Which? and passed their stringent checks.

Access4Lofts can help minimise the risk of injury by installing a sturdy loft ladder, so you can safely and easily access your loft. “Of course, you’ve always got to be careful when using any sort of ladder, but you’re certainly taking the safer option by using a loft ladder rather than balancing on a chair to climb up into your loft” says Simon Dovaston from Access4Lofts. “And, with our range of telescopic loft ladders that fit even the smallest of loft spaces, there’s no excuse for a dangerous balancing act this year!”

Why not call Access4Lofts on 0191 9330781 or visit www.access4lofts.co.uk/durham for your free, no obligation quote. You can also find them on Facebook @Access4LoftsDurham.

Time is Running Out to Beat the Solar

70% of Solar Energy is produced in the UK between March-September. Homeowners will therefore be scrambling to get Solar PV installed this Spring. Get ahead of the curve by booking in your installation now!

Time is Money

You might not think that winter is the best time to get Solar PV installed. However, it is never too early to take advantage of the energy and money saving benefits of Solar Power. Start generating your own green energy ASAP and you will be able to spend less on energy during the coldest months of the year.

Beat the Budget

The Autumn Statement from the Treasury means that the typical household will be spending roughly £3,000 per year on energy from April 2023. If you consume more energy you might pay even more! This, paired with the £400 discount homes were receiving from the Energy Bills Support Scheme being scrapped means homes could be paying around an extra £900 for energy in 2023.

Act now

By the time the days start getting lighter and the April Price Cap comes into force, demand for domestic Solar PV will have skyrocketed. Enquire about Solar PV now to avoid inevitable installation delays, increased prices and supply issues caused by last minute panic buying in the spring.

Food lovers, prepare yourselves

A brand new restaurant has opened in Consett! Soami’s Trio promises to do exactly what it says on the tin; offer three different world cuisines, all under one roof. Owners Rohini and Parvin Kumar are excited to offer their customers Indian, Mexican and Thai food. Our extremely talented chef, Parvin Kumar uses only the finest ingredients and most delicate spices in his dishes, creating food that is truly tasty and authentic. All of our food is created with love and care, keeping your enjoyment at the heart of it all. Best of all, gold medalist chef, Dinesh Rawat (Parvin’s culinary guru), is consulting on this project, meaning our food will be better than ever before.

Come down to Soami’s Trio to explore the roots of these exquisite cuisines. Our chef continues to take inspiration from every corner of the globe, to ensure we are delivering exotic flavours, using theatrical techniques that you won’t find at any other restaurant or takeaway in Britain! It is our privilege here at Soami’s Trio, to address misconceptions about food and bring the North East a dining experience that is vibrant, exciting and truly unforgettable.

Gold Medallist Chef Dinesh Rawat who consulted on this project

Meet Peter Haney; Consett’s eco-friendly window and door fitter

Peter Haney is a leading manufacturer, supplier and installer of energy efficient windows, doors, composite doors, bifold doors and conservatory warm roofs.

As the only manufacturers in Consett, you can guarantee that when you choose to purchase your energy efficient items from Peter Haney, you know you’re choosing the best in the business.

With over 40 years of experience under our belt, it goes without saying that we know our stuff, and we are amongst the most experienced in our business. There isn’t a question about energy efficient doors and windows that we don’t have the answer to, or the ability to learn about.

As a family run business, we appreciate each and every customer who comes through our door and supports our local business.

By keeping our business in the family, we work amazingly as a team, and strive to achieve the best results possible. We aren’t just connected by the business, we’re connected by blood.

We offer free estimates before we complete any manufacturing work or installations, as well as offering a huge variety of styles. Call today and speak to us, so we can show you exactly how our products can help to upgrade the aesthetics of your home.

PETER

WHITE

STARTERS

Hairy Biker Si King to open restaurant in Sunderland

Hairy Biker Si King is finally opening up his first restaurant here on home turf. King is originally from Kibblesworth near Birtley, and he will be taking a unit in Sunderland’s Sheepfolds Development, based in a Grade II listed former stable.

The restaurant is due to open to the public in summer next year and will offer flavours from around the world, as well as “pop-ups” for independent producers.

Why Sunderland?

King pointed out that Sunderland is a huge hub for local produce. On top of being a city by the sea, there are copious amounts of allotment space for homegrown fruit and vegetables, which King described as “appealing to me as a creative person”.

This development will be a huge boon for Sunderland, especially as the team working to get the restaurant off the ground are all local. Everybody is keen to achieve the best for the city and create something that the people of Sunderland will want to visit.

King put it perfectly himself, saying:

“What will be absolutely vital is that people vote with their feet, and patronise the brilliant places being developed for them.”

When will it all begin?

Planning permission for the Sheepfolds development was given approval as part of ongoing work to rejuvenate Sunderland’s waterfront. The work is being carried out by BDN, who recently restored the Old Simpson Street School.

BDN’s Managing Director, Rick Marsden, is super excited to be welcoming Si to the project, as he will bring something special to the city.

King’s relaxed style of food will be a great addition to the Sheepfolds. We hope that there are plenty of other fantastic restaurants opening up alongside his!

Map

Places to go...

As this

edition is published, the new 2023 UK National Rail Map will be available for delivery before Christmas. When days are short and the temperatures low, it’s a great time to plan ahead for when the weather is more conducive to days out for leisure. One I am looking forward to doing for this column is a visit to Dumfries House – one of our King’s most impressive projectsnear Auchinleck, East Ayrshire, accessed via Carlisle once a certain freight train which had an accident is out of the way. I hope to write it up for January or February. e new map features useful websites for travellers, and of these I am particularly looking forward to the new Great Scenic Journeys initiative, promoting the UK’s best bus and rail routes. e other websites I recommend on the map are: roam-everywhere.com Nationalrail.com Streetmap.co.uk Seatfrog.com Bustimes.org

ere have been absolutely no changes to operators and brands this year. e franchise system having collapsed at the time of the pandemic, all operators are either state owned already (like LNER and Northern, for example) or are run as management contracts. is gives very little incentive to encourage entrepreneurial revenue development, since all the revenue passes to the government. As I write, many commentators are seeing a deep paralysis in the rail industry, with few operators wanting to start any new initiatives, although LNER for one has shown itself willing to raise its head above the parapet. One of the most obvious changes has been the opening of the family waiting room at King’s Cross. On the mainline network there has been but one station opening at Reston in the Scottish Borders.

e hopelessly late and over budget Elizabeth Line, linking Paddington to Liverpool Street, has nevertheless wowed the public with architecturally brilliant stations, wide platforms, air-conditioned trains and impressively reduced journey times. rough running from Reading and Heathrow to Shen eld and Abbey Wood is part way there and nearly complete, and all

the new stations are shown on the map, with their three letter codes. e Elizabeth Line was shown rst as under construction in our 2009 map so it has taken some time to come to fruition.

One other signi cant new station is Barking Riverside, which is an extension of the Gospel Oak to Barking London Overground Line. e new station is at the heart of the as yet unbuilt Barking Riverside development, and is an excellent example of public transport being developed before people move to an area instead of long a erwards.

Some of the other stations which we expected to open for the new map are still resolutely under construction and we look forward to the eventual opening of stations like Reading Green Park and Brent Cross West. Our shovel symbol shows all stations reasonably likely to open in a few years, but is subject to change following government policy, e.g. the scrapping of parts of HS2.

Dunfermline in Scotland was created a City in 2022 and therefore the station known as Dunfermline Town has had to be renamed Dun fermline City. is was challeng

ing for many of the legacy systems on the railway, but in terms of the map, the revision was made in a matter of seconds. Our map features nearly 2,700 stations, with all lines, interchanges, platform zeros, restricted services, etc and measures 100cm x 63cm. All operators are shown in their house colour with logo and website.

Just visit railmap.org.uk for our special o ers and ordering details. A great present for Christmas, and bang up to date.

alexnelson@dunelm.org.uk www.nationalrail.com

UK National Rail Map

FILM REVIEW

After Chadwick Boseman’s unfortunate death in 2020, audiences have wondered how Black Panther might continue. The first thirty minutes are truly a love letter to both King of Wakanda and Boseman himself, allowing us to all join together to mourn both the actor and character right out of the gate.

The plot quickly spins us another year into the future, where the narrative of the film really picks up. Unfortunately, however, the plot is perhaps the one place where this film might be a bit lacking.

It's worth saying, though, that the sequel did as best it could with the cards it had been dealt by the universe. The lack of Boseman’s T’Challa would always leave a panther-shaped hole in the entire Marvel franchise, but the film was still enjoyable to watch, if a little tinged with melancholy.

Wakanda Forever is a celebration of the strength of Black women, following Queen Ramonda and Princess Shuri as they face yet another threat to their country. The cinematography is no less breathtaking than our first trip to Wakanda, the costume design is something to be marvelled at, and the soundtrack is truly something else.

The film introduces Namor to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics’ first ever anti-hero. Without giving too much away, Namor is the God of another kingdom that has long been hidden from the rest of the world.

It is easy to see the parallels between the two kingdoms

throughout the film, and so Namor’s motivations are somewhat understandable. There is no pure good or evil, simply characters who are shaped by trauma and who are intrinsically flawed.

This is something we do not typically see in superhero movies, and honestly a breath of fresh air from the overly righteous morals that we usually get. This also produces some especially thought-provoking scenes between Letitia Wright and Angela Bassett, as we navigate the grey area between right and wrong.

The star of this movie, however, has to be the character of Okoye, General of the Dora Milaje. Danai Gurira’s expert deadpan delivery of sumptuous one liners is a comedic masterclass. But it's not all jokes, Gurira’s range is incredible. She hits every joke out of the park, but also plays raw, emotional scenes that truly catch your heart.

The rapport and banter between Gurira and Dominique Thorne’s Ironheart is also noteworthy, filled with witty comebacks and humorous insults galore.

Though pretty long at 2 hours and 40 minutes, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is definitely a fantastic way to leisurely spend a cold winter’s afternoon.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever takes us back to a now not-so-secret African nation five years after the events of Avengers: Endgame.

Georgia Paskell Copywriter

What’s on

Durham Christmas Festival

2nd December - Various Times - Durham Market Place, Durham

Head on down to Durham Market Place for three days of entertainment throughout the city of Durham. Is there a better way to start the Christmas season than heading over to a Christmas market and getting a head start on the shopping? Come along and support over 200 local traders, as well enjoying some quality family entertainment. No need to book for this one, just turn up!

Illuminating Ushaw: Land of Enchantment

From 3rd December - Various Times - Ushaw Historic House, Durham

Ushaw House invites you to join them for the third year running, to take part in their beautiful light trail. For the first time, the stunning interior of St Cuthbert’s Chapel, creating a unique experience that will be atmospheric and captivating for everyone who attends. As always, there will be an incredibly high demand for tickets, so make sure you book yours well in advance: ushaw.org/whatson/illuminating-ushaw-land-of-en chantment

Murder Mystery: Killing Among The

Carols

4th December - 7:30pm - Beamish Hall Country House Hotel, Durham

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Well, that is until you find yourself in the midst of a murder mystery. Enjoy live performances of your favourite carols, while you help the singers and the staff work out who the killer is, while you enjoy a sumptuous meal. Book your ticket today, and make sure you watch your back; there’s a killer on the loose: beamish-hall.digitickets.co.uk/tickets

Jersey Boys & Christmas Party Fun

9th December - 7pm - South Causey Inn, Stanley

If you love the Jersey Boys as much as you love Chritsmas, there is simply no excuse for missing this party at The South Causey Inn. Indulge in a delicious feast before being entertained by a fantastic tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, who will perform hit numbers such as “My Eyes Adore You”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Oh, What A Night”! Book a ticket today by calling 01207 235555

Elf Academy

17th December - Various Times - Ushaw Historic House, Durham

Have you ever wanted to be an elf? Or wondered exactly what it takes to work for Father Christmas? Join Activate Theatre’s workshop at Ushaw Historic House, and learn how to be the best elf in Lapland. Enjoy Christmas fun and games, as well as dances, singing and even the chance to meet Santa and show him your new skills! Book your child a place, right now:

ushaw.org/whatson/elf-academy-with-activate-the atre

Christmas By Candlelight

20th December - 7:30pm - Durham Cathedral, Durham

Come and join a stunning West End cast, as they serenade us in our very own Cathedral this December. Enjoy classic sing-alongs such as “White Christmas”, “Let It Snow!”, “Santa Baby”, “O Holy Night” and “Winter Wonderland”. This uplifting concert is a brilliant way to celebrate the very start of the festive season, with all of your family and friends. Book your tickets for this must-see event, today: durhamcathedral.co.uk/events.

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 | Sales: 0191 410 0043

Washington Showroom: Unit51 Hutton Close, Crowther Ind Estate, Washington, Tyne & Wear, NE38 0AH

Sale@nulite.com www.poptopcampervans.co.uk