Talk of the Town June 2019

EDITION 216

CIRCULATION 4,600

JUNE 2019

SALTBURN’S FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE 1

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SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK Letter from the Editor

Many thanks to Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council for their grant last month. It was used immediately to help pay the printing bill for May‟s magazine.

Every month I find myself saying „there‟s no pattern to it; if there were a pattern I could adapt to it and get it right every time.‟ I‟m referring mainly to the distribution of the extra copies to be picked up from libraries and post offices outside Saltburn where sometimes they all disappear straight away while other months there are some left over. If I knew exactly how many copies were needed I could supply the right amount. I‟m also referring to the space in the magazine for extra articles, adverts, announcements and on this page, my „letter from the editor‟. Last month no space at all; this month, plenty of space. There‟s no pattern to it. Every month is different. We wouldn‟t want every month to be the same though! I‟m becoming increasingly aware that life is all about change but I wouldn‟t mind some things being reliable!

The warmer weather is here and it‟s lovely to be outside, not having to wear glasses anymore and seeing how beautiful the world is. Unfortunately there are two negative aspects to the warmer weather here in Saltburn. One is that it is the Himalayan Balsam season. This invasive plant is a

threat to the floral species diversity in the Valley Gardens because it crowds out natives and causes soil erosion due to its very shallow roots. There are areas where it has gone out of control and it would take teams of volunteers to eradicate it.

However, in the areas where I have been conducting a personal policy of zero tolerance towards it over the last few years it has almost disappeared. All it takes is a small effort to get rid of it.

The other negative aspect is the continuous antisocial, unneighbourly noise pollution all night long blighting the sleep of the town centre residents. I am told it is a „compressor‟, whatever one of those is. Is there any reason at all why they can‟t install quieter, more modern equipment? Love, Ian

Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by Friday, 14th June 2019) to: The Editor, Talk of the Town c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, Cleveland, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 623903 (or email: talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com).

Talk of the Town can be found on a new Facebook address at www.facebook.com/talkofthetownsaltburn.

Saltburn Studios and Gallery: Our next exhibition is Coastlines, a solo exhibition by Studio Artist Rae Clarke.

Coastlines opening on Saturday 1st June until Sunday 23rd of Saltburn Farmers’ Market: Thank you to everyone that June. The paintings, based on experiences of the North Sea came to our May market; the town was buzzing and everyone coast, represent the line between what we know and different sold out! We will be back again on Saturday, 8th June with possibilities. Rae joined Saltburn Studios in 2018. With a fresh supplies of fabulous foods, great prints, a few cheeky background in interior design she is passionate about capturing drinks and some new faces! the colours, contrasts, shapes and patterns in her surroundings.

Craft Club Busy Fingers: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each The Gallery opens 12 noon to 4pm on weekends, everyone month, 1.30 till 3.30pm in the Coffee Room, Saltburn welcome.

Community Centre.

Saltburn Traditional Music Workshops: Do you play a Random Stitchers of Cleveland (Embroiderers‟ Guild) are melody instrument? If you are interested in playing traditional in Saltburn Library this month on 12th June at 2.00pm. See music of the British Isles please come and join us. We play Library article on page 10 for further details. tunes slowly for people to get used to playing together and Table top sale for the Air Ambulance at Saltburn House on welcome the use of recording devices to enable you to take the 22nd June. Denise Marshall will be having a cake stall selling tunes home with you to practise. We will be meeting on Friday 14th and Friday 28th June from 2pm to 4pm in the Coffee her usual cakes, pies and scones. See advert on page 13.

Emmanuel Church Hall Table Top and Collectors’ Sale: Room at the Community Hall. Please contact Angie on 01287 We will be back for our normal sales on 1st and 15th June 205153 for a natter to find out more about our friendly group. and then 6th and 20th July. We are really taking off as we WI Report: Our May meeting, being the Annual Meeting, saw are using all three rooms and it‟s really busy. It‟s nice that we Ann returned as President as she does such an excellent job and have a lot of people just wanting a clear out. In this sale we three new members join us on the committee. The two are using three rooms full of stall holders and we have also let resolutions, „a decline in rural bus services‟ and „don‟t fear the some charity people in like Friends of Redcar Cemetery, smear‟ had a lively discussion, the same night, and were passed different church groups, cancer charities and more. It‟s 100% by our members. We wait to see what happens at the helping a lot of people, We are looking forward to seeing you National AGM. Our team were pipped by one point in the all again and thank you all for your support. We are also Federation quiz, coming second place, well done. Members doing our usual lunches and all day breakfast, fresh home have been out and about to Group Rally at Moorsholm WI, to baked cake, pies and scones. Home made refreshments and see Oklahoma at Middlesbrough Theatre and the walkers over light lunches are on sale all day. FREE ENTRANCE and a to Castleton. There‟s lots going on every month with flowers, warm welcome to everyone. With over 26 stall holders, strolls, walking netball and supper club and more. Come along selling lots of bric-a-brac, books, toys, baby goods, and all and see what we get up to. Saltburn Learning Campus, 7pm on sorts of collectables, there is something for everyone. Contact the second Thursday in the month; you‟ll always get a warm welcome. www.saltburnbytheseawi.wordpress.com Denise Marshall on 07929 589538.

Lynn Cover Photograph: Fireworks celebrating 150 years of the Pier last month by David Hankin Disclaimer: Talk of the Town tries to make sure the articles and announcements made on its pages are accurate, but views expressed in letters and articles printed in Talk of the Town are not necessarily those of the editor. Any offers in adverts included in Talk of the Town are made by the advertisers; details should be confirmed with them. Always confirm event details with the organisers, in case of alteration or error. Talk of the Town is printed by DC (Yorkshire) Print, Mercury House, Grove Lane, Hemsworth WF9 4BB. Website: www.dcprintyorkshire.co.uk Tel: 01977 642331. Proprietor/Editor of Talk of the Town: Ian Tyas c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ. (Ian Tyas tel: 01287 623903.)

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Saltburn-by-the-Sea Looking back at Victorian Week events

High wire antics on the pier 1985

Town crier Sharonâ€&#x;s message falls on deaf ears

Above: Ready for a dip in the North Sea 1998 Below: Toe deep 1998 Above: Queen Victoria visits the Oxford Street party 1990 Below: Assembling for the Town Photograph 1997 broadcast live on BBC 2 during an Open University programme.

Cath and Tony Lynn 4

Looking for that special gift and card?

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Now also available online.

Visit us at www.bramblesgiftshop.co.uk 4, Station Street, Saltburn by the Sea, TS12 1AE Tel: 01287 623 368 www.bramblesgiftshop.co.uk

Saltburn Councillors’ Surgeries Saltburn Councillors‟ Surgeries, each month - all on Saturdays Every Wed. Library 4-5pm Cllr. Craig Hannaway 2nd Sat. Library 10am-12 Noon Cllr. Philip Thomson 3rd Sat. Outside Sainsbury‟s Cllr. Stuart Smith 9.30 -10.30am and 11.30 -12 Noon 4th Sat. Library 11-12 All Councillors Cllr. Hannaway: 07787 880613. Cllr. Smith: 07557 540628.

Cllr. Thomson: 01287 624883.

Worship on Sunday 10.45am & 6.00pm And 10.00am Wednesday Sunday school 10.45am Prayer meeting Tuesday 1.15pm

MONDAY

8.00pm Ladies Meeting

TUESDAY

10.00am - Mums & Toddlers 1.15pm Prayer Meeting 2.00pm Knit & Natter

WEDNESDAY 10.00am Mid week Worship THURSDAY 10.00am Mums & Toddler 2.30pm fortnightly - Ladies Meeting COFFEE MORNINGS: WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY AT 10.00am WE ARE OPEN FROM 10.00am - 12 NOON MONDAY, TUESDAY , THURSDAY, FRIDAY DO COME AND HAVE A CHAT AND A CUPPA For Hire of rooms ring 01287 623145 5

Once Upon a Time in the Wapentake I promise that this will be the last article about trains (for a while, at least), and that it will be about what improvements I would like to see to services for us, here in Saltburn.

I begin by reiterating that the point of any such improvements would be, primarily, to encourage people to leave their cars at home, thus reducing congestion and pollution and, most importantly, our emissions of greenhouse gas. To do this most effectively would involve electrification. (At least one of the local lines was electrified successfully before the First World War, and de-electrified shortly afterwards!) As I suggested in April‟s Talk of the Town, electrifying the line from Northallerton to Middlesbrough via Yarm would be a start. Trans-Pennine Trains from Manchester use this line to reach Middlesbrough and soon (hopefully) Saltburn. They are diesels but run from York to Northallerton under electric wires. It was originally planned to electrify the line from Manchester to York via Leeds. This must go ahead if the commitment to the „Northern Powerhouse‟ means anything. When the wires reach the Boro it is only a little further to Redcar and us.

Electrifying to Redcar will also benefit freight services to Teesport. At the moment 90% of containers entering Britain come into ports in the South, even though 60% of them are destined for the North and Midlands. Bringing that 60% into Teesport would be good news all round.

Electric trains running into Saltburn from Leeds and Manchester could be just the start. Sixty years ago trains ran direct from Saltburn to London. They could do so again.

When the cross-country line from York to Bristol via Birmingham is electrified, as it surely must be, then we could hope for services to England‟s second city, to the Southwest and to South Wales.

And then we might look at travel to the north. There is a line from Norton Junction, north of Stockton, to Ferryhill Junction, south of Durham on the East Coast Main Line. It is used now for freight (and once for a special from Saltburn to Inverness) but if it was upgraded and electrified we could have a direct service to Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Next we could consider abandoned lines in our area that could be reopened. Anyone trying to drive out of James Cook Hospital at rush hour will know there‟s a problem with congestion on Marton Road, mostly caused by commuters from the Stokesley area. Relay the track from Stokesley to Battersby Junction, and you could have a reliable, cheap and (very importantly) frequent service into the Boro, and get the commuters out of their cars.

Then there‟s Guisborough, once served by a line joining at Nunthorpe. Part of it is now the Guisborough Branch Walkway, but surely there is room for both footpath and railway line? One consequence of these developments would be more trains stopping at the Hospital Station, so fewer cars trying to get out on Marton Road.

But all this costs money. Where would it come from? I would suggest a culling of white elephants, those grandiose projects that politicians love but which serve no useful purpose, some of them (Heathrow‟s Third Runway, for example) actually increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

HS2 is a glaring example of misplaced investment. All that money to cut a few minutes off the journey from London to Birmingham? But now we‟re told that‟s not the point; the point is to take the pressure off the overcrowded existing lines. I could think of half a dozen ways of achieving that at a fraction of the price.

Tim Beswick

Writing in the Woods For centuries writers have been composing poems and writing stories that celebrate nature. The Saltburn Valleys have nature in abundance. Whether you write a lot or just want to try something new, why not join the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust on Saturday, 15th June to explore how the Saltburn woodlands can help writers get creative.

This half day adult workshop, based at the Saltburn Valley Gardens Woodland Centre, will explore how sights, sounds, smells, textures and the history of the woodlands can be a powerful source of inspiration. A mixture of fun outdoor activities and spontaneous writing will be used to help unleash the imagination and creativity of participants. Whatever your ability you are welcome.

This event is part of the Saltburn Valleys CIO‟s Ancient Hazel Project which is supported by funding from National Lottery players through the National Lottery Heritage Fund. A number of events and activities are being planned over the coming months exploring the woodlands and the history of hazel. To keep up to date with events and activities, join Saltburn Valleys CIO by emailing saltburnvalleys@gmail.com or check our website at http://www.saltburnvalleys.org.uk/ Writing in the Woods: Saturday 15th June 1.00pm 6

Photo: Dan van den Toorn to 4.00pm, Saltburn Valley Gardens Woodland Centre.

Places are limited so you will need to book a place by calling 01287 636382 (or emailing info@teeswildlife.org).

Bring a notebook and pen. Time will be spent outdoors on uneven ground, whatever the weather, so wear suitable footwear and clothing. Open to adults 18 and over.

Kate Bartram

Real Meals Purveyors of Fine Foods

“Great Coffee and Superb Cake” “Excellent selection in the deli counter” “Epicurean Delights” “Friendly, helpful staff” “Amazing range of Spices from around the world”

Pop in and see for yourself today Call Real Meals on 01287 622266 25 Milton Street, Saltburn Open 7 Days a Week New email address: realmeals.uk@gmail.com

Councillors’ Column Redcar and Cleveland Council now has a new set of Councillors in charge.

All predictions of outcomes were just that until the contents of the ballot box were analysed. What was not predicted was the turn out. Saltburn held its head high in the number of residents who exercised their democratic right and all who voted are to be congratulated. The Borough electorate having decided, we await the promulgations of the new regime.

Saltburn does need some sensitive attention. Recent investment has been primarily in the Cliff Lift. Whilst work has been welcomed the expenditure has been at least three times over budget and no enquiry results published as to why. The completed works have proved to be somewhat inadequate with continual stoppages since occurring and recently days went by awaiting repairs to carriages which had been removed twice in recent years for refurbishment.

A ray of light has been the reinstallation of under-pier lighting, destroyed in the 2013 sea surge. Advancing technology allowing this restoration to be made, using LED lighting at a fraction of the previous cost, just in time for the Pier150 Celebrations.

Dare one mention parking? On one day alone six instances of cars parked across dropped kerbs was reported.

There is no need for this. The immediate fine of £60 appears no deterrent. The net cost to the community is that those who need safe passage across the highway are denied it by unthinking and apparently uncaring vehicle owners.

Will a fifth Chief Constable in as many years have any

effect at all? With only one new parking space being constructed in the town in the last 10 years it is hoped that all the construction plans sitting on the table will now be implemented.

One specific proposal to use out of hours parking at Cat Nab for overnight stay of motor homes should now be delivered without delay, making the best use of an underutilised asset and bringing some legitimate revenue to the town.

One clear challenge that all residents will have is to face the undoubted difficulty of climate change. For those that continue to doubt, please think again. Every resident can play a part, not least in contributing to an improvement in recycling waste. Our standard in R&C of 46% is good when compared to Tees Valley neighbours but palls into an also ran when compared to best practice in some parts of the rest of the country where 63% is currently achieved.

Whilst looking after our environment we have many other standards to monitor. Educational attainment in secondary schools is one. Performance does not reflect national achievement in our top primary schools of which the Borough is justifiably proud. We must be proactive in addressing this unacceptable situation which by any rubric is a failure.

A solstice will soon be upon us. When summer comes let us all enjoy it but not forgetting those who need support in the community which it is hoped the new regime will deliver.

Philip Thomson 7

Saltburn Athletic FC The season is now over but all teams continue to train and become involved in club tournaments throughout the summer period. Some multi talented players will turn their attention to cricket mixed with the football training.

The U14 Falcons won their last game of the season and finished fifth in their division whilst the U14 Dolphins unfortunately lost their last two league games ending their bid for promotion. They also lost the final of the North Riding Cup to Boro Rangers, having kept the scoreline to 1-0 at half time but the much superior skills of the opposition who had many academy players in the squad told in the end. The final score was 7-0. However, they must be congratulated by being the first ever Saltburn team to reach a major final.

At this time it looks as though the under 15s team will fold leaving the club with seven teams for the new upcoming season in September. Both coaches have had to opt out due to work and other commitments together with the loss of several players.

It is hoped that the club will be in a position to have another much younger team for the 2020 season start. This will need a parent to become a coach by taking the relevant courses.

Anyone who has a child at Huntcliff primary and wishes to consider running a team please contact Andy Croll on 07779 648877.

Our own football gala days are on the 8th and 9th June and visitors are welcome to watch and any budding coaches can see how the teams play.

Andy Croll, Club Secretary

SARA Spring Stroll a Success The 5th Spring Stroll along Redcar Stray to Marske took place on Bank Holiday Monday. It was an unpromising start weather-wise, however, but fortunately the rain ceased at the beginning of the walk allowing our two legged and four legged participants to enjoy pleasant conditions.

Huntcliff was visible in the distance and the dogs stayed dry. Over twenty dogs took part with their families – all breeds, all sizes (from Great Danes to Chihuahuas), all colours and all ages. It makes for a great sight to see a canine convoy strolling along our coastline.

This event gives SARA residents the opportunity to venture beyond the sanctuary doors and thus benefit from the wider environment and its treasures. It is always a delight to meet up with ex SARA dogs who have found their forever home and hear stories from their owners. The morning is also about celebrating and promoting health and happiness of canines and is a great PR opportunity for the charity.

The animals were rewarded with doggy goodies, supporters with chocolate and an amazing total of ÂŁ100 was raised. These funds will go towards the cost of neutering our most recent dogs. We welcomed volunteers, adopters and the public and thank everyone for supporting this annual event Joy and Mandy Volunteers at SARA 8

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For a friendly efficient service on all legal matters Tel:

01287 623049

Our New Address: First Floor, 15 Station Street, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS12 1AE

Also at 68/70 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH Tel: 01642 242698. e-mail mileshutch@aol.com for enquiries at both offices.

Help! Your local Playgroup needs you!

Little Nippers is in desperate need of willing volunteers to help out on Monday and Wednesday mornings, either in the kitchen or in the group. We need people to help set up and put away. If you can help, even if it is only for a few hours each month, we would love to hear from you. So, if you love spending time with young children, painting, glueing, singing, making music or reading stories, or even simply making drinks, then please contact Little Nippers Playgroup on

01287 624575

We have spaces in June for babies and newcomers to the town

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Saltburn Library News Exciting news for this month‟s event which will take place on 12th June 2019, starting at 2pm. We will be welcoming Jane Gatenby along with 3 other ladies from the Embroiderers‟ Guild. Jane is an expert „felter‟, whilst her friends are equally qualified to share their experience in related fields. The guild has recently decided to change their name to „Random Stitchers‟. This is to encourage new membership, including beginners in the art of embroidery. They thought the word Guild was rather imposing and may have discouraged those just starting out to learn this craft. She insists that people of all abilities and skill level are welcome. Jane and her peers will be bringing along samples of their work as well as offering advice on how to achieve the same. Please do join us and enjoy this event!

Love Life, Live Well – a Series of Talks (also running at Marske library on the same dates, at 13:30).

5th June 11:00am Improving your well-being.

19th June 11:00am Dementia Friends (general talk aimed at improving dementia awareness).

Other June dates: 3rd June 11-12 noon Talk hosted by Countryside Team on walking The Cleveland Way to coincide with 50th Anniversary Cleveland Way (Redcar & Cleveland Walking Festival).

11th June 2-3.30pm Crossing the Tees event Bryan Cross: Quit While You‟re A-Head to be hosted at the Library. Humour filled tales of life behind the school gates from this local ex Head Teacher. Costs £5 Booking only through Crossing the Tees website. See article below on this page.

12th June 2.00pm Friends of Saltburn Library – Talk hosted by the „Random Stitchers‟. See above.

26th June 10.30 am Saltburn Reading Group meeting.

27th June 11.30am-1.00pm Adult Art Therapy & Mindfulness Workshop £9 pp, payable at time of booking.

August – Summer holidays kids crafts and events (TBC).

Kelly Rose

Crossing The Tees Book Festival 8th – 22nd June 2019 It‟s back! Crossing the Tees, the Book Festival for the Tees Valley, returns with a jam-packed programme of authors, events and workshops. Highlights for 2019 include TV‟s The Yorkshire Vet Julian Norton, international best-selling mystery novelist LJ Ross, master of crime Stephen Booth and exploring drink with columnist and author Henry Jeffreys.

We‟ve got performances from Kate Fox and Doorto-Door poet Rowan McCabe, plus creative writing, Lipstick Library, the Short Story Competition and a host of children‟s authors visiting schools.

What‟s more, we‟ve got our very own Poet-inResidence and, teaming up with The Northern Festival of Illustration, an Illustrator-in-Residence too!

Come and join us! See Saltburn Library for further details.

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Saltburn Evangelical Church (Leven Street Mission) Following Jesus - the Bible our guide

Here for you: WELCOME! Sundays 10.30am & 6.00pm www.saltburnevangelicalchurch.org.uk _________________________________

“I’m worth millions!” He didn’t look it, this young man wandering through town last month. Attempts to engage with him fell flat. His mind seemed elsewhere, his train of thought clearly derailed by illness or abuse.

But this brief encounter raised questions. How is a person’s “worth” calculated? It’s the exam season in our schools. A GCSE grade might measure success, but is the teenager with a fistful of 1s and 2s worth more than the classmate with 6s and 7s? Is the selective school topping the league more successful than the school that props up the table but welcomes those with special needs?

And when those teenagers leave school are they worth the same “living wage” as a 20 year-old? Does wage equal worth?

We know it doesn’t … and yet we feel it should.

There needs to be a sense of justice, “success” that’s deserved through achievement. But what of the person who tried their hardest, yet didn’t succeed? In times past some parents were heard to say, “We’ve promised Jimmy a bike if he passes the 11+.” What promise could Jimmy rely on if he didn’t? Was he loved for what he did, or for who he was?

That’s the love that inspired the psalmist to write: “You created every part of me; You put me together in my mother's womb… You saw me before I was born.” (Psalm 139:13,16). God doesn’t make rubbish.

That young man in town was right.

Doubting your worth? Follow the link on the “Talk of the Town” page on our website for a song you may need to hear.

Saltburn Charity Crafters The meeting date for Saltburn Charity Crafters is Wednesday 5th June from 2pm to 4pm in the Coffee Room at Saltburn Community Hall. If you fancy joining us please just turn up for a chat.

Further details from Angie on 01287 205153.

Renaissance: A Summer Serenade Come and let the award-winning choral group, Renaissance and their accompanist, Martin Dack, serenade you in the lovely surroundings of Saltburn‟s Community Hall on June 29th.

Renaissance have always enjoyed performing a diverse range of musical items and this special summer concert will continue this tradition, drawing upon well-known choral classics, folk songs and jazz. However, they have added a new dimension to their repertoire this year which they hope will prove as enjoyable to their audience as it has been to prepare!

Inspired by Ann Lampard, a former pupil of Saltburn‟s Betty Middleton, they have been working on short, staged extracts from opera – The Magic Flute, Iolanthe and Hansel and Gretel, among others, will provide a lively and often humorous look at some operatic moments.

This new departure arose from a Yorkshire Song School in November, shared with Ann‟s pupils from the Isle of Skye where she now teaches, when the singers were challenged to exchange the comforting choral line up in which they had performed for years, for the acting out of operatic scenes. All are soloists in their own right but few had dramatic experience so it was with some trepidation that they faced the task. However, with Ann‟s guidance (and much laughter) they found that they could rise to the demands of telling a musical story in a different way and it is these scenes that they are keen to share as one of the elements in their summer concert.

The concert will be presented in an informal cabaret style, with a bar. Tickets, (to include a glass of summer fizz!) can be obtained from S. Nelson, or contact 07796 305235.

We look forward to welcoming you on June 29th – doors and bar 6.45 for a 7.30 start.

Holly Blue Makes it to Prestigious Greeting Cards Retailing Awards Finals It‟s official! Holly Blue is one of the best card retailers in the UK, having reached the finals in The Retas 2019 greeting card retailer awards.

The Retas Awards, now in their 15th year, were launched by Progressive Greetings magazine to recognise and reward the UK‟s very best greeting card retailers from right across the retail spectrum. Greeting cards are sold in one in six shops in the UK, reaching the finals of The Retas is a notable achievement.

“The sending of greeting cards is an engrained part of UK culture, with the British public spending an unprecedented £1.7 billion on greeting cards in the last year alone,” commented Jakki Brown, editor and co-owner of Progressive Greetings magazine, which organises The Retas Awards. “The nation leads the world in greeting card design and sends more cards per capita – and The Retas Awards celebrate the very finest greeting card retail

stockists in the UK.” All Retas finalists were decided as a result of an industry-wide poll of greeting card suppliers, reps and agents and validated by a panel of experts.

The winners of this year‟s prestigious greeting card retailing awards - The Retas 2019 – will be revealed at an Awards lunch at the glamorous Grosvenor House Hotel on London‟s Park Lane on Wednesday, July 10th.

The Awards recognise and celebrate not only the top independent and multiple greeting card retailers regionally and nationally, but also outstanding retail employees.

These dedicated awards for retailers have risen immeasurably in status over the last decade and are now universally acknowledged as being true accolades of excellence.

Further details can be found at www.theretasawards.co.uk.

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Saltburn 500 Club Congratulations go to J Johnson who was the winner of the £100 First Prize in the May 500 Club draw. Unfortunately, membership of the club has fallen back to around the 400 mark, which is extremely disappointing. I would like to see the numbers increase by 100 or so, resulting in more funding being available for various projects around the town. Please consider joining, or, if you are already a member try to persuade your neighbours!

The Annual General Meeting for Saltburn 500 Club will be held 5th June in Saltburn library, starting at 5.30pm.

Work has been completed on the electrical supply for Christmas lights at the Queen‟s Hotel and we are now trying to prioritise the work to see which section of Saltburn will be next to be done. We are desperately trying to raise funding for this project because failure will mean that we could possibly have to make unwanted decisions about which lights can be erected this year and which parts of the town go unlit. It is a decision none of the committee want to make but it may be forced on to us. The irony is that Saltburn‟s Christmas lights could outshine any in the area if every house in Saltburn donated £1 towards the lights.

Work has started on the refurbishment of the surface around the Victorian statues at the bandstand, as volunteers have started removing the gravel. The work was meant to be started on 9th May but the weather has managed to scupper that! Hopefully, by the time you have read this article, the work will be completed and ready for the Britain in Bloom judges to be impressed.

Saltburn 500 Club are pleased to offer financial support to the celebrations of the 150th anniversary of Saltburn pier and we hope that the celebrations go well and are not hampered by the weather. It has been recorded, on many occasions, that the pier would possibly not exist now if it hadn‟t been for the efforts of Saltburn 500 Club and other like-minded organisations that managed to raise in excess of £1million towards essential repair work. This, of course, was back in the day when funding was a little easier to obtain and it seems a million years away from today where we are struggling to raise the funding for the Christmas lights! I feel that I should point out that the funding for the pier celebrations is to be taken from a reserve fund that was ring-fenced for events relating to the pier. We cannot, therefore, use any of that amount for refurbishing Christmas lights.

Here‟s hoping we all enjoy an improvement in the weather from now on as it is raining at the time of me writing this article!

Trevor Welburn Secretary, Saltburn 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn trevor.welburn@btinternet.com

Saltburn Photographic Society In the summer months we have evening outings. In June we go to North Gare, at Seaton Carew. In July to Locke Park.

August to Coatham Sands. Tuition is available on all these outings by request, and non-members are welcome to join us - see contact below. A selection of members‟ work is on display in Saltburn Library, the emphasis during last month and June will feature Saltburn Pier.

For more information visit our web site www.saltburnphotographicsociety.co.uk or contact Tony Lynn 01287 622519.

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T: 01287 201876

M: 07737 654772

E: darrenflintoff@yahoo.co.uk A: Unit 2, The Drive, Longbeck Industrial Estate. Marske, TS11 6HB

Website: www.flintoffs.co.uk

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Saltburn in Bloom Spring seems to be truly here, or at least the weeds believe this is true. The gardening team is hard at it trying to keep up with all the jobs to make the town floral displays look as good as possible for us all to enjoy.

You might have noticed the chicken wire round six of the Amberol planters along Marine Parade. We have started an experiment and would like to know what you think (contact us at saltburn.in.bloom@gmail.com). The idea of the chicken wire is to try and give trailing plants something to latch on to as previously, due to the conditions there, trailers have been blown back into the planters. We are also hoping to use the wire for some other colourful displays. Have a look as you walk past during the coming weeks and please let us know your thoughts.

We have had lots of comments over the years about how stark those planters mentioned in the above paragraph look; all black and big and boring. We are relying on you, our readers, to give us your views as we try some different approaches to softening the appearance of some of them.

We are all ears.

Teesside Churches Together has come up trumps for us. There are going to be teams of volunteers working to benefit our local communities during July and Saltburn in Bloom is one group that they are set to help out. We expect to be able to involve them in a surge of activity before summer judging, just the right time when we want our displays to look their best for you, other residents, businesses and summer visitors to the town that we are all so proud of.

Before these volunteers hit our streets, we‟ll be putting up the summer hanging baskets. This will take place from 7.30am each morning on the 18th and 19th of June. If you can help at all, please come and join in, and there will be a cuppa and a biscuit in it for all helpers, as well as a great social time.

As you probably know, we take part in the really good thing Saltburn Community and Arts Association does to help local groups. We have a table top sale there every now and again, to raise funds to help us buy plants and compost and help with watering costs. Our next one is on Saturday, 13th July (don‟t worry, I‟ll remind you next month). We staff the kitchen too and always have really good, freshly cooked food and cakes. On our stall we sell plants raised by one of our committee members who is a really good plants man and, in July we will have a raffle and will be selling beautiful recycled candles. We have been donated lots of used wax, including holy wax from the Catholic Church so you really should come and check this out.

Finally, for this month, once upon a time, Saltburn railway track had one of only three sets of Victorian buffers left in England. Bringing them back to Saltburn has been a very long and drawn out story but the end is in sight. Watch this space....... Sue 14

Saltburn-by-the-Sea Garden Flat available for holiday lets Less than five minutes walk from the sea and from the train station, shops and local restaurants etc.

The property consists of a fully fitted and equipped kitchen, spacious and well furnished lounge overlooking the garden (which is for your personal use), and a king size bed with en-suite bathroom.

WiFi access Price - £40.00 per night (minimum of two nights) Contact Mr & Mrs Smith on 01287 623740 (home) Or 07988 838956 (Mr Smith mobile) Or 07877 384977 (Mrs Smith mobile)

Andy Pollard

07773006361 (based in Saltburn) Residential and Commercial Property Maintenance Plumbing, Drainage, Property Refurbishment, Roofing Repairs, Fencing, Carpentry, Joinery, Painting and Decorating, General/Ongoing Property Maintenance.

How Joseph ‘Pilates’ started this exercise form 100 years ago The Pilates (Pil-a-tees) we know today started in a room of hospital beds in an internment camp on the Isle of Man during WW1. German born Joseph Pilates was working as a circus performer, boxer and self-defence instructor in England before the war broke out. During the latter part of the war he served as an orderly working with patients who were unable to walk, he created equipment out of bed springs, much of which, although slightly adapted, is still in use today in many Pilates Studios.

He later emigrated to the USA and taught his exercise method in his „body conditioning gym‟ in New York from 1926. He used his equipment together with matwork exercises and it became very popular with the dance and athletic community, particularly when it came to rehabilitation and preventing injuries. Word quickly spread and many famous celebrities and athletes of the day visited his studio.

Today, the roots of Joseph Pilates exercise philosophy is still the same, but exercises have evolved to include current biomechanical thinking. It was first called „Controlology‟ and only after his death was it known as „Pilates‟.

Pilates is a full body exercise method that will help you do everything better. It‟s low impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles whilst improving postural alignment and flexibility. You can do it with or without equipment, and expect the moves to be slow and precise and include breath control. Class levels range from beginners to advanced. (Everyone starts in beginners to learn the method, even professional athletes!)

If you‟d like to know more about starting a Pilates class, please get in touch.

Vicky Rees Studio 21, 9 Amber Street, Saltburn mail@studio21yarm.co.uk or 07929 601043

2019 SCAA Photography Exhibition The annual Saltburn Community and Arts Association photography exhibition took place over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. The exhibition was displayed in the Community Hall and was visited by over 200 people. 12 local photographers contributed their work including 2 who had never shown before. The comments from the public were very positive and there were several sales. The next exhibition opportunity will be for the „Open Summer Show‟.

This takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and is open to a wide range of artistic media. SCAA are hoping to show Craft, Photography and 2D Artwork. The submission date is 20th August 2019 and submission forms will be available from the SCAA office in the Community Centre and also online from their soon to be revamped website. Forms will be available nearer to the date.

Audrey Barnes 15

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Brotton Library Knit and Natter Group We are a small group making items for charity whilst sharing skills and friendship. It is free to come to the group. We have a few regular members and would welcome more. Thursday afternoon 2pm till 4pm in Brotton library (attached to Freebrough Academy).

Deborah

Architectural Services & Chartered Structural & Civil Engineers Architectural Planning and Building Regulation Advice Listed Building Experts House Extensions & Loft Conversions Alterations and Refurbishments Residential New Builds, Shop Layout Designs, Alcohol Licence Applications Office Warehouse Designs

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Email: liz.ingledew@btinternet.com Website: www.liziesdecorating.co.uk

www.scurator.co.uk info@scurator.co.uk www.beamdesignservice.co.uk 17

Look Out – Morris is About!

What’s Happening at Marske Hall June Family Fun Day Saturday, 22nd June, 11am-3pm, Marske Hall, Redcar Road Marske. The event promises to be a fun packed day for all the family with a wide range of stalls, bouncy castles, slide, bric-a-brac stalls, cake stall, books and DVDs, along with winbola, the grand raffle and free entertainment. Free entry, donations welcome. All funds raised will go to help fund activities and activity equipment for the residents of Marske Hall. Call 01642 482672 or search for Marske Hall on Facebook.

Organisers welcome any additional winbola prizes.

These can be left at the Hall on Redcar Road Marske, any time between 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday or can be donated on the day. Registered Charity No: 218186.

For press interviews call Ruth Hebden 01642 482672. Marske Hall, Redcar Road, TS11 6AA. Appeal: The fundraising team is always looking for tombola and raffle prizes to use at events throughout the year. Simply call into Marske Hall from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Visit www.facebook/marskehall.com.

Kath Bloomfield 18

Who? Jet Set formed in 1999 with the intention of bringing traditional Border Morris to our area, this being the moors and coastline between Whitby and Saltburn, with a few minor changes. We have retained the ideals and style of Border Morris, performing some dances brought to us through members who have been in other sides, and some dances written ourselves. We incorporate stories and themes from local history, in an attempt to keep the tradition alive.

What is Border Morris? One of the questions most often asked of Morris Dancers is “Where do the dances and the tradition come from? This question is both easy and impossible to answer. Border Morris comes from the Anglo/ Welsh border, in particular Shropshire and Herefordshire. The dances, traditionally, were beggars‟ dances, performed by out of work farm labourers, and were based upon Cotswold Morris, though with much ridiculing and humour to make the performance entertaining and thus encourage the audience to part with a few coins.

The origins of many of the dances remain shrouded in mystery, but can reputedly be attributed to Pagan fertility rites and seasonal worship. The blackening of the face is said to have its roots in a concern to scare away evil spirits, and early Morris Dancers probably used the ash from sacred fires as blacking.

The industrial Revolution all but killed off the old Morris traditions, which were mainly practised in rural areas, as it brought about mass migration to busy towns and cities.

With little or no free time, the young men who had previously kept the tradition alive neglected it, so the dances may have been lost were it not for the work of Cecil Sharpe, who travelled around the country collecting ancient and traditional folk songs and dances. Morris dancing suffered a similar threat during the War, when women were relied upon to maintain England‟s folk culture. With the latter part of the twentieth century came more free time, and people began to fear the loss of our heritage, and revive the old dances.

Traditionally, Border Morris sides dance with black faces, rag jackets (known as tatters), decorated hats and bells.

The purpose of the dance kit is to conceal the identity of the dancers, as they were breaking the law by begging. If the local Sheriff or Squire appeared, the beggars would run away down side streets and alleys, discarding the hat decoration on the way, then at the first available water (this was the age of the horse trough) they would wash the blacking off their faces and finally turn their jackets tatter-side in, and rejoin the crowd in the market place.

So, on Saturday, 29th June, we have invited a number of other teams to join us in a celebration day of dance. We will be hosting teams performing a variety of traditional Morris dances – long sword from Yorkshire, garland dances from the North West, Molly dances from eastern counties and several Cotswold teams. Look out for us near the station, the promenade, Marine parade and down by the Ship.

Come and say hello on the day and, if you fancy having a go yourself or if you would like to join the band, please get in touch. New members will be made very welcome.

We practise every Thursday evening at the Earthbeat Centre in Saltburn, 7.30 – 9.30pm. Find us on Facebook or contact Gill Jones Tel: 01642 479993 (or e-mail gilljones52.gj@gmail.com).

Hedgehogs Sadly, our native hedgehog is in decline. Fifty years ago, there were an estimated 30 million hedgehogs in Britain, today there are fewer than 1 million, and they could be extinct by 2025.

It is imperative that we all do what we can to help them. There are many ways in which we can all help.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal. If you see one out during the day, it means that it is poorly and needs help. Be vigilant whilst driving, 200,000 are killed annually on the roads. Keep an area of your garden “messy”, so that they have somewhere to hide or shelter. Cover drains and gulleys, so that they do not fall in and become trapped. Hedgehogs cover a fair distance looking for food, and fences around gardens prevent this.

Leave 13cm square holes in fences, as a “hedgehoghighway”, to allow them to pass between gardens. Netting used in gardens can become an entanglement hazard, thus, if using netting, ensure that it is 8 inches from the ground. Lift up the netting on goal posts, when it is not in use. Ensure that items of litter are not strewn, as these can injure hogs.

If your dog shows an interest in hogs, then before you let your dog in to the garden on an evening, put on an outside light for a couple of minutes, before you let your dog out. The hog will then scuttle away. Feed them with any dog or cat food (not bread, milk or mealworms). Specialist hedgehog foods are available. Leave out a shallow bowl of water, pebbles can be put in the bowl to help reduce evaporation If have a pond, make sure that the edges are a shallow sloping gradient, rather than steep sides in order to prevent them from falling in and drowning. Be careful when using garden equipment, check for hogs before using a mower and strimmer. Do not use slug pellets in the garden, as the slugs eat the pellets, then the hogs eat the slugs and are poisoned.

Hogs are a gardener‟s friend, eating slugs and snails. Build or buy a cosy hog house for their winter hibernation.

When building bonfires, either throughout the year for disposing of garden rubbish, or specifically for bonfire night, it is imperative that they are not built “in advance” of being lit. This is because hogs will go in to them for shelter. It is advised that bonfires are dismantled and moved before being lit, but if this is not possible, then they should be checked thoroughly, and only lit from one side, to allow the hogs to escape.

Further help and information can be obtained from The Cleveland Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01642 894060 or 01642 531599 (or chps98@yahoo.com); The British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890801 (info@britishhedgehogs.org.uk) and Facebook (Cleveland Hedgehog Preservation Society).

Saltburn Vets, 01287 625050. The advice from the vets, if you find an injured hedgehog, is to put it in a cardboard box (with air holes) and keep it warm and quiet, and then obtain expert advice form the vets. They will ascertain if it can be released or if it requires care at a sanctuary.

Two local sanctuaries are Ann in Guisborough, (07702 919592) and Lindsay in Stanghow (07504 426003 or lindsay.gilhespy@me.com).

Please keep a note of these details for future reference.

All donations are gratefully received by these organisations.

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Gisborough Priory’s Medieval Pageant Gisborough Priory Project will be holding its biggest event of the year on Saturday, 15th June 2019 from 10am to 4pm. The Medieval Pageant in the Priory is a FREE fun day out for all the family with activities, displays and demonstrations throughout the historic priory site and the adjacent woodland gardens.

The centrepiece of day will be the Red Wyverns Medieval Re-Enactment Group who will be setting up their camp on site and bringing the past to life with scenes from the life and times of folk from the medieval period and the Wars of the Roses.

Find out how a medieval soldier donned his armour, go to Knight School, watch a combat demonstration and find out what daily life was like for our ancestors from this period.

Centre stage of the camp will be the cookery tent where soldiers and other camp followers have their main meal.

The Falconry Days Birds of Prey will be joining us and there will be an opportunity to see these truly stunning birds in flight as well as on show throughout the event, with fully trained and knowledgeable falconers on hand to answer any questions.

Donâ€&#x;t miss the Whitby Company of Archers who will be joined during the day by members of the Red Wyverns Group for a spot of target shooting.

For the younger members of the family there will be crafts and a Fancy Dress Competition taking place around 1pm and perhaps some of the adults would like to get in the spirit of things and try their hand at dressing up as well!

In the woodland gardens there will be demonstrations of Coracle making and woodland crafts including pole lathe tuning and rope making.

Look out for the wandering minstrel and jester who will be keeping us all entertained during the day.

Staff from the English Heritage store at Helmsley will be bringing along Priory related artefacts and local groups including the Guisborough Museum, Prior Pursglove College Museum and our very own Gisborough Priory Project will have displays.

Throughout the day there will be an opportunity to add some of the final tiles to the mosaic which community artists Helen Gaunt and Derek Mosey have been commissioned by Gisborough Priory Project to make. When complete the mosaic will be fitted into a stand to be made by local blacksmith James Godbold. The finished mosaic and stand will be located on the Priory site as a lasting commemoration of the 900th anniversary and your handiwork would then be part of the history of the Priory.

Visitors are welcome to bring along their own picnics or alternatively there will be several stalls supplying a range of refreshments from hog roast to ice cream and of course baked goods and preserves made by our volunteers.

Cat Cafe Circles of life CIC learning disability service has opened a cat cafe at 21 Queen Street Redcar TS10 1AB. We are open 10am until 3pm week days and the first Saturday of the month.

Tel for 07760 343394 or find us on Facebook for more details.

Sorry under 12s are not allowed in the cafe.

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SALTBURN BLUES CLUB Our gig on June 29th is a welcome return visit by THE MIGHTY BOSSCATS. Lead singer, Richard Townend, is one of the most prolific songwriters on the British Blues scene. Since 2011, he‟s released nine albums both as a soloist and with The Mighty Bosscats, managing to write outstanding tracks even at this pace. His clear and mellow vocals deliver across a range of themes, melodies and styles. Sometimes languid, sometimes energetic, but always breath-taking in musicianship. Townend is a clever lyricist and his guitar work is riveting. Shades of Chris Rea and Mark Knoffler emerge and within his range lies a deep understanding of „swamp‟ music that really evokes the Deep South. A class act that delivers every single performance.

Venue: Saltburn Cricket Club Doors: 7.30pm Tickets: £10 available from Milo‟s Cafe, Saltburn, www.yorkshireticketshop.co.uk, The Cricket Club, www.saltburnbluesclub.co.uk and 07960 935263.

Due to our last two gigs selling out it is advisable to obtain your tickets before the gig just in case we have no room on the night.

Still Got The Blues goes out on Zetland FM every Monday 7pm – 10pm, on line, or you can catch it later on Mixcloud. Visit the website at www.zetlandfm.co.uk and scroll down to Mixcloud. Three hours of the very best of the blues.

Harry

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Cleveland Diving Club Great expectations were on the cards this April as some of our members headed off for the club‟s annual diving trip to Appin (near Oban) in Scotland. This customary trip that signals the start of the diving season is becoming increasingly popular with the group expanding to 22 this year, along with 4 of man‟s best friends, of various breeds. Great diving, great weather and great people made for a great weekend.

An old familiar dive site, the famous, „5th layby,‟ on the water‟s edge of Loch Creran and the, „Slates‟ on the coast of Loch Leven, Ballachulish, offered our group some memorable diving, including three trainees who were able to have their first taste of sea diving. Happily all three trainees completed their final dives to become qualified BSAC Ocean Divers. Although the underwater visibility was less clear as on previous trips there was a wide variety of marine life encountered, much to the delight of our three newbies and the more experienced divers.

For example, the famous serpulid worms, although singularly fairly common they only form reefs in specific places, Loch Creran being one of them - photo 1, taken by our star photographer of the weekend, Mark. Mark also captured this sunstar, photo 2, and a moon jelly fish, photo 3, which curiously were particularly prolific this year.

In addition to the usual marine specimens such as spider crabs, brittle star fish, queenie scallops, plumose anemones and whelks, the piece de resistance was an encounter with a very friendly dog fish, putting on a show for the camera, photo 4, below. As has become the norm for our annual trip the weather was kind, being especially mild this year. Although quite often overcast with occasional bursts of sunshine the Saturday evening barbecue proved to be a truly sun-drenched and merry affair, being particularly enjoyed by our four-legged friends.

Scuba diving is a great sport and diving with likeminded people makes it a great way to make friends and socialise. Interested, Cleveland Divers can be contacted via Facebook, „The Diving Club-Cleveland‟ or on 07960 608529.

June Coomber

Seaview and Greta Cottage caring together 5 star care homes awarded by Redcar and Cleveland for their quality of care and personalised service.

Home from home with daily activities and weekly trips out in our own minibus.

Please feel free to visit us at anytime.

01287 622498 and 01287 625178 24

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G . Bishop - Decorator *Interiors and Exteriors

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What Is Silent, Painless And Can Ruin Your Life?

Glaucoma. It‟s an eye condition that nearly half a million people in the UK suffer from. You are most at risk after the age of 40. The good thing is, in many cases, if it‟s seen early enough, this horrible eye condition can be stopped in its tracks. However, most people don‟t have regular eye tests.

Not going to the Dentist is one thing (you can always eat with false teeth) but neglecting the Opticians is another (you can’t see with false eyes!)

My name is John Prouse, I‟m an Optician and I do a home visit eye test service especially for people who struggle to leave their home or you can visit me at my practice. Either way, don‟t risk spoiling your vision and your life.

Call 01287 644211 or visit www.loftusoptical.co.uk for your free over 40 eye test.

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Live Strong and Prosper Star Trek‟s Mr Spock, who was characterised by his faith in science and logic would probably be happy with our twist on the Vulcan greeting of “Live long and prosper”, as it is based on sound science and it is a simple solution to a public health epidemic that is in full swing. The news media regularly inform us that the population is aging and that ill health and frailty are on the rise. The picture that is painted is usually a bleak one, with little if any meaningful mention of two simple things that can make a huge difference to health and quality of life. These are diet and exercise.

In our last article we mentioned the amazing health benefits of regular exercise and how strength training is under used. In this article we‟ll look a little more closely at why building and maintaining muscle strength is so important and discuss why strength training is under used.

As the human body ages, there is a gradual reduction in muscle mass. This process is termed sarcopenia and usually starts from the 4th or 5th decade. The amount of muscle loss per year is in the region of 0.5-3% and results not only in weakness and frailty but in significant disruption of various metabolic systems, which can have negative effects on health. Low levels of muscle mass have been linked to a greater risk of developing type II diabetes, a range of heart, lung and circulation disorders, elevated blood pressure and an increased risk of stroke. In addition, the loss of muscle mass makes everyday activities more difficult and increases the chance of falls and fractures. The good news is that sarcopenia can be slowed down or even reversed if the right kind of exercise is performed. This should be exercise that builds muscular strength, but it has to be done regularly to work. However, strength training is not as popular as other types of exercise and this could be due to people not knowing what to do or believing that it entails going to gyms and using complicated looking machines or having to perform difficult weight lifting routines. Another common reason for steering clear of strength training is the fear that it could aggravate previous or current joint and back pain problems.

These obstacles to starting a strengthening exercise regime can be overcome by first seeing a Physiotherapist who can give an individually tailored exercise programme that can be done safely and effectively at home. Regular strengthening exercise, combined with good dietary advice, can have life changing results. You can find more information about the benefits of strength training on our website and for dietary advice we recommend the services of Dietwise (Healthcare Profession Registered Dieticians) who can be contacted via their website: www.dietwise.co.uk.

Philip & Pauline Newton Chartered & Health Care Professions Council Registered Physiotherapists Newton Physiotherapy 01287 767287 www.NewtonPhysio.com

Linda Hodgson BSc (Hons) McPod / SRch HCPC Registered Podiatrist / Chiropodist Appointments available call

07985 194056 27

Sophia's C2C Challenge When someone suggested I write to Talk of the Town to let everyone know about my decision to walk 190 miles for charity instead of having a beach holiday this year, it seemed like a great idea, until it came to actually writing! I have a lifetime of things I could share with you, and it‟s so difficult to break it down when every single hospital appointment, admission or surgery, every day off school, every curve ball and setback has led me to where I am now.

My name is Sophia Woodings. Some of you will know that in 2004, at the age of 12, I underwent my first kidney transplant. This tremendous gift gave me almost 11 years of life without the need for dialysis, enabling me to have an almost normal childhood. Transplantation is the best form of treatment, but unfortunately it‟s not a cure, and in 2013, not long after starting my veterinary nursing degree, my transplant began to fail. In 2015 I received a kidney from my Mum, and was keen to get fit and return to an active lifestyle. However, recurrent infections and hospital admissions were causing setbacks and affecting my mental health.

In July 2015 I attended a 5-day outdoor activity programme with Climbing Out, where my outlook began to change. Climbing Out is a small, national charity that helps rebuild confidence and self-esteem in young people facing life-changing injury, illness or trauma through the medium of the outdoors. I can‟t quite put into words the impact Climbing Out has had on my life, but it‟s like a light bulb was illuminated in my head. I was able to return home equipped with the tools to deal with the additional challenges I face, and also live life to the full in the long term and not just until the adrenaline had worn off. I want as many young people as possible to benefit from this charity in the same way that I have, which is why I‟ve chosen to walk 190 miles from St. Bees to Robin Hood‟s Bay, in the hope that I can raise £1000 to fund a place for someone else on a 5-day programme.

I‟ve wanted to do this for years but have always

found an excuse. “I can‟t carry all my medical equipment”, “My camping gear is too heavy”, “I‟ll wait until I‟m fit enough”, “What if I get ill?” In the last 3 years several of my friends are back on dialysis needing a transplant, and I‟ve lost 3 others to cancer. I‟ve come to realise that if we waited until we were actually ready, we would never achieve anything in life. To try is to succeed, and try I shall!

Yes, I‟m writing this in the hope of gaining sponsorship, but more importantly to raise awareness of a fantastic charity for young people, and to demonstrate how organ donation really does transform lives.

My fiancé and I will be leaving St. Bees to begin our coast to coast journey on 15th June. We‟d like to thank everyone who is quietly cheering us on, and those who have sponsored us so far. Your support means a great deal. If anyone wishes to donate to Climbing Out via my Just Giving page, please go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/c2c2019 alternatively, Saltburn Vets hold a sponsorship form for monetary donations.

Earthbeat Open Day In a little over 4 years the Earthbeat Centre has become a vibrant and important part of life for many people in and around Saltburn. The old girls‟ grammar school built in 1903 and situated on the corner of Marske Mill Lane and Marske Road, is not only the home of the fabulous Earthbeat charity, but it is where seven community centred small businesses are based. The Earthbeat centre is also used by many local groups, clubs and associations that cover activities such as singing, fitness training, music, archery, Tai Chi, dance, yoga and art & textile workshops.

You can even learn to master the trapeze!

There is probably something for everyone at the Earthbeat centre, but don‟t take our word for it. Why not come along to our Open Day and see for yourself? On Saturday 13th July between 10.30am & 3pm we will open our doors. Entry is free and there will be displays and 28

performances from the groups who are based at the centre. We will also have lots of activities such as games, music, dance, face painting, a tombola and craft demonstrations.

We will have food stalls, gift and craft stalls and our business tenants will be on hand to showcase and discuss their work which include Shanti (Vegetarian Cafe), Evolve (Free Trade & ethically sourced clothes and much more), Yoga Meditation & Therapy Space, Dahlian Kirby (counselling and creative writing), Mimi‟s Maestros (Bespoke and creative music classes for 0-4 year olds and their grown ups), Kelly Jayne (art therapies) and Newton Physiotherapy.

There will be heaps to see and to do and any funds that we raise on the day will go to local charities. We hope to see you on Saturday 13th July.

Spring Clean with our Special Offers!

Any two ASTONISH cleaning sprays (of the ones normally priced £1.25 each) 2 for £2.00 ZOFLORA (56ml) £1.00 ELBOWGREASE £1.00

Check out our Cheapest Prices in Saltburn Thank You for Supporting Your Local Small Shops Open 9.00am till 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday 29

Save Our Saltburn The biggest changes to our historic town since its inception

by Henry Pease in 1858 are about to take place and we the residents and visitors to Saltburn must act now to prevent the destruction of the iconic “Jewel in the Crown of the North” (Times Travel 2017) landscape that we enjoy and appreciate every day and that has brought Saltburn-by-theSea local and national recognition.

Thank you to all who attended the very quickly arranged public meeting in response to the planning application received by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council from the Camping and Caravanning Club of Great Britain. Over 200 hundred people attended the meeting in support of SOS and were thankful for the excellent, informative input from David Jinks, Skelton Ward resident, on the extent and the impact on the local area of the proposed camping and caravan holiday park and its associated buildings. Claire Griffths, RBC Development Management team, was thanked for her attendance. Claire was only able to provide limited information on the planning process going forward as she had not been part of the original group of Councillors and Asset Management Team who were responsible for the original idea and the associated research eventually presented to a local landowner. Both the Chief Executive and Chair of R&CBC and lead of the Asset Management team were invited to attend the public meeting but declined the offer.

As far as we can ascertain the brief history to the application as submitted is: the original proposal came from R&CBC who, in an attempt to promote economic growth in the Borough adopted an initiative to “potentially broaden the tourist offer”. Having reviewed various sites around the town the only site they sought to promote was “a vacant and unused” site bordered by the Valley Gardens and Saltburn Gill, the site known locally and nationally (Times Travel Supplement 2017) as “The Jewel in the Crown of the North”!

The council approached landowners Skelton and Gilling and thus the process began.

The initial plan was the council would lease the land from the land owner and once a developer had been found the council would sublease “purely for purposes of control

not financial gain”. It is reported by the council that that arrangement did not then suit the landowner, thus the council “has never acquired any legal interest in the site”.

On 30th April an A4 size notice appeared strapped to Belisha beacon post on Saltburn Lane far from the advertising hoardings, that have been there for years bearing the R&CBC logo, informing that, “The proposed development does not accord with the provisions of the development plan (R&CBC) in force in the area in which the land to which the application relates is situated”.

The Council having acknowledged they promoted the idea would appear to realise they have let “The cat out of the bag” and are now abdicating all responsibility for the proposal arrangement and the destructive impact of such going forward.

The next stage of this process is for the planning team to review the application and its associated 38 documents (all provided by CCC so a concern must be raised re the unbiased nature of such) and prepare to make recommendations to planning committee.

IF R&CBC PLANNING COMMITTEE PASS THE APPLICATION THERE IS LITTLE CHANCE, OTHER THAN THE SECRETARY OF STATE, TO REVERSE THE DECISION. We will be requesting of the council that they keep us informed of the process as it may be necessary to insist upon a Public Enquiry.

By the time this article is published the R&CBC planning process will be in advanced stages of document scrutiny and further fact finding. We trust the council, now that they realise it does not accord with their plans, will be persuaded by the many, almost 200, well-articulated, objections from local residents and visitors, local and national ecological and heritage societies and other concerned groups AND REFUSE TO PASS THIS APPLICATION. Thank you for your support with this process, for updates sign into Facebook Save our Saltburn (or to contribute email save.our.saltburn@gmail.com).

Tricia Towey Save our Saltburn Group and concerned resident

Keeping It Clean At Saltburn A shout out to our beach clean heroes who regularly tidy up the beach and woodlands on their daily walks, as well as attending our monthly organised beach cleans.

This month‟s picture shows a typical haul, that was gathered

by Sue Cook. Check out our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ Kicasaltburn to view more images of these mini beach cleans.

Please send us your pictures of any litter picking that you do.

Thank you to the wonderful volunteers who joined in the May Beach Clean. We got a short window of brightness, in amongst the rain, hail and fierce wind. We will host our next Beach Clean on Saturday 1st June.

We meet at the new Victorian Shelter, next to the mini golf. Our 2 minute beach clean boards are situated on the lower promenade, so please make use of them. Any litter pick/ beach clean, no matter how small, really does make a huge positive difference for our environment and the wildlife.

Be the change that you want to see and the someone who does something about it. Together we can KICAS! 30

Goings on in Saltburn I thought it was about time I found out what was happening in my home town of Saltburn so I attended the SNAP (Saltburn Neighbourhood Action Partnership) meeting on 17th April in the library. It was set up to inform the public what the council is up to and to report back anything we felt needed attention. After the usual welcome, introductions, apologises and minutes from the previous meeting, a mixture of topics were discussed.

PCO Nichola Dobson reported low crime and theft and no drugs related offences.

There is a copy of the conservation plan in the library, the final approval is September and then it will be enforced.

The new yellow lines are starting to be put down and to follow will be two stripes on the pavement edge indicating no parking by anyone, including disabled, at anytime. The junctions at either end of Milton Street are under review. The application for £1.4million for funding for additional car parking has been lost because it wasn‟t applied for in time.

There were objections to the application for the Outlook restaurant on Marine Parade and the new application is under review and will be notified in June/ July. It will need 5 objections for it to be reviewed again.

The latest topic to cause a stir, Redcar and Cleveland assets management team made an approach to Skelton and Gilling Estates that they may be interested in using the field opposite Cliffden Court on Saltburn lane for a caravan and camping site. Planning application has been put in and if you have objections then don‟t delay. It needs at least 5 people to object so it can be discussed at the council meetings. I suspect there will be more than 5 objections as an informal show of hands gave 22 against out of 32 present.

The shoreline was discussed and the safety element involving quads and jet skis. Removable bollards with be placed on the slipway near the Ship for those with legitimate access but any other access is the slipway in Redcar. The no dogs on the beach ruling will now apply for the summer season.

The original beach chalets brought out an interesting fact that there is a family who have rented one of these desirable beach chalets since 1940! Wow! this must have been passed down generations and how many more are the same. No wonder no-one else can have a chance at renting one. After listening to a short talk by a lady who does rent one I got the impression that those renting at the moment feel they own them. They have even formed a committee so secure are they that they will still be in them for years to come. Is this a definite misuse of public property?

In conclusion the meeting was informative, with lively debating and I will go to the next one, so look out for it. It was obvious that if you have any grumbles or issues relating to Saltburn then write to your councillors otherwise you have no cause to complain afterwards.

It‟s the old saying Put Up or Shut Up! Name withheld by agreement

2019 Saltburn Bowls Open Pairs

Over the weekend of 27th and 28th April 2019 Saltburn, seemingly with its own micro climate, defied the local damp weather forecast whilst the annual open pairs competition was held at Saltburn Bowls Club.

Once again the quality level of the players was exceptional, this time the numbers of entrants were slightly down on previous years but the entertainment value was not diminished in the slightest.

Saturday saw the early rounds that reduced the numbers in this knockout tournament to the quarter finals level. On the Sunday, an 11:00am start saw the continuation of the games, with the final starting at 2:00pm.

Sunday morning was bright but cold, by the time 2:00pm came around we had glorious sunshine and the spectators came out of the clubhouse to cheer on those in the final.

The final itself could not have been closer, Terry Richardson and Eric Whorlton (Hutton Rudby) needed an extra end to beat last year‟s winners John Selley and Bill Hutchinson (Redcar and Saltburn) by 8 points to 7 after the original game ended 7 all in the allotted time. A wonderful game played in an exciting atmosphere gave us another enthralling competition.

Many thanks to all who entered, also to the members and organisers at Saltburn for providing food, tea and coffee to keep the contestants in tip top form throughout, a very memorable weekend indeed.

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32

With U in the middle – Reaching in & reaching out Saltburn Town HuB is not a new venture, it‟s a new name. We feel it describes more clearly what we are about, and what is on offer. A list would not suffice, as a hub we will be defined by the needs and interests of those who visit us.

The outreaching links we have with both statutory and voluntary sector groups, enables much more to be achieved. Doorways, is funded through Lottery Community Fund, and supports all ages from Secondary school age.

For a long time now, Doorways, and the work we do with Destinations have been able to provide personal and group support in many areas. From help with jobsearch, CV writing and career choices, negotiating online applications, learning more about digital skills, help with benefit applications, using the online tools of the NHS and health practitioners or advice on further education. And with the wonderful Milo‟s cafe on hand and continuing to provide not just great food and drink, but also resources and invaluable support, there is much to look forward to.

For it is often over a coffee and a quiet chat, that much more emerges. Opportunities for growth are found, new activities investigated that can lead to a range of things, whether it‟s increasing confidence, self-esteem, personal development, or overcoming difficulties and moving forward.

The Hub will continue to have close contact with many groups such as U3A, walking activities, Friday Friends and the Grenfell Club to mention just a few. We also have our own in-house specialisms that we are happy to share, with those who would like to embark on a journey of discovery.

The Explorer‟s Lounge upstairs is a treasure to be shared, and we want to invite you to come and see. It‟s a

or email: simon.robson1@ntlworld.com

quiet space and welcomes anyone who is looking for something, (especially if you're not sure what). Just come and see.

Exploring: Five ways to Well-being, Career moves, Mindfulness, Relaxation, Quiet Space, Peer support Crafts , Digital skills Creative skills, Health choices Leisure interests, Digital Health An OPEN DAY event has been arranged for: Saturday June 8th 10.00am to 2.30pm Everyone welcome Call in and meet us at: Milo‟s Café Bar, Station St, Saltburn TS12 1AE (and just up the stairs). Ask Paul, Sue, John, Vanessa or Dennis – what else there is!

Text: 07548 650205 – Call: 01287 236016 / 236006 Destinations & Doorways are open: Mon – Fri 9.30 to 4.30 pm

Saltburn and District Royal British Legion Why not come along and see what a fantastic Branch we have become? We are a very active Branch, providing financial, social and emotional support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families and dependants.

We meet at Loftus Cricket Club on the first Saturday of the month, at 6pm. We attend branch training, visits, events, affiliation events, functions, lunches and much more.

Did you know we are also proud to be affiliated with Loftus Army Cadet Force, Carlin How and Skinningrove 1st Girl Guiding, Saltburn Army Cadet Force, Guisborough and East Cleveland Sea Cadets and Guisborough Royal Marines Cadets.

See also page 37.

33

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council Following the recent local elections Councillors Martin Bell, Marion Jefferson, Robert Proctor, Stuart Smith, Drisc Wardle and Jim Wingham have been appointed to represent the Saltburn Ward.

At the Annual Council meeting in May, Councillor Stuart Smith (Saltburn Ward) was appointed Chairman taking over from Councillor Vera Rider. Councillor Stan Glover (St Germain‟s Ward) was appointed as Vice Chairman (pictured).

At the Ordinary meeting, grants were approved for Community Groups throughout the Parish including Talk of the Town, The Great North Air Ambulance, Saltburn Community & Arts Association, Saltburn Valleys CIO, Saltburn Band Concerts and Saltburn in Bloom.

Council considered the planning application for the proposed development of a camping and caravanning site on land east of Saltburn Lane. It was noted that the Clerk and several Councillors had attended a public meeting organised by local residents who were objecting to the plans and a summary of that meeting was given to Members. Following a debate, Saltburn, Marske & New Marske Parish Council agreed that it would be submitting an objection to this application.

In March Council held its Annual Parish Assembly and welcomed Barry Coppinger to the meeting. He gave an informative overview of work carried out by Cleveland Police during the previous twelve months. At the same meeting Councillor Rider presented Debi Large from Marske Community Christmas Group (pictured) with the Jackie Taylor Memorial Shield, which recognises outstanding work in the community.

Future dates for the diary Friday 9th - Sunday 11th August - Saltburn Folk Festival Sunday 1st September - New Marske Annual Allotment Garden show at New Marske Institute Sunday 8th September - Saltburn Hill Climb NOTE that allotment inspections will take place in Saltburn very shortly - please remember that at this time of year plots should be at least 2/3 cultivated (growing produce) and the remaining ground should be kept clean and tidy.

Failure to do so may result in the termination of your tenancy.

Tracy Meadows (Clerk and RFO to the Parish Council) 01287 623477 office@smnmpc.co.uk www.smnmpc.co.uk

Sam at 8pm on the Summer Solstice 'The finest English-style finger-picking guitarist of his generation,‟ Jon Boden, Bellowhead. „One of the most gifted acoustic guitarists of his generation.‟ Mike Harding, singer and broadcaster. „Certainly one of the best songwriters of his generation.‟ Seaside Folk Committee.

The only pertinent question concerning Sam Carter is „Why isn‟t he more famous?‟ It is pointless relying on quotes to tell you how astonishingly well Sam plays the guitar; it‟s like knowing how good an ice cream is by listening to Aunty Nelly‟s description – not that Aunty Nelly doesn‟t know a thing or two about good ice creams; she‟s tried plenty in her time.

By concentrating on his brilliant musicianship there is always the danger that you overlook his skills as a songwriter.

His songs relate; and that is the right word: the lovers who never did have that weekend away; the struggle to stay neutral when friends part; the tricky business of „balancing the books‟; and the joys of finding harmony of some sort. We are all familiar with his themes and are somehow surprised when we hear them recognised and even more surprised when we hear them so beautifully related.

His roots in folk narrative are probably part of the reasoning behind his success as a writer and he still includes the occasional traditional number – if he doesn‟t sing Jack Hall, it isn‟t my fault. That resonance of how story and song can combine to give meaning is very much part of the appeal of his work.

34

Sam‟s fans are better known than he is: Jools Holland, Martin Simpson, Richard Thompson and Nitin Sawhney; actually Nitin Sawhney is probably about as well known as Sam but check out his biography.

Sam is a Rutlander, if that is the right word, but spent a number of years in London which is reflected in some of his lyrics. He is now part of an apparently ever-growing list of artists on the folk circuit who live in or near Sheffield; steel rather than iron but they are related and we mustn‟t be judgemental.

To return to his guitarmanship, which if it isn‟t the right word, should be, Sam‟s style of picking is, like so many of his influences, eclectic. You may recognise Asian, Arabic or English traditions but will end up appreciating an individual‟s craftsmanship and, quite simply, enjoying the result.

Seaside Folk are very pleased to welcome Sam at 8.00pm on Friday, 21st June. The Summer Solstice may see the sun overhead on the Tropic of Cancer but the Schoolroom at Saltburn is the place to be; Glastonbury and Stonehenge can wait for another year.

35

Emmanuel Church Hall, (off Windsor Road) Saltburn

Tuesdays at 3.30pm, 5.30pm or 7.30pm.

Earthbeat Centre, Marske Road, Saltburn

Saturdays at 8.30am For Details Ring

Stevie on

01642 474920

36

Friday Friends Friday Friends is an inclusive friendship group based in Saltburn, for people aged over 18. We are a friendly group and welcome people with different abilities.

June programme 7th June Seated keep fit with Taylor, 1-4pm Paint a tree in blossom. 1.15 Tai chi with Terry.

14th June Sing-along with Ian on Guitar, 1-4pm Weaving.

21st June a Games morning, 1-4pm Card making, 1.15 Tai chi with Terry, 28th June Bowling and lunch (if pre-ordered) at Saltburn Bowls Club 10-12 followed by 1-4pm Sew a felt pincushion.

We are a non-profit making group, run by volunteers. We meet on Fridays at Emmanuel Church Hall, McNay Street, Saltburn. Activities are 10-12.30 and arts and crafts 1-4. First session is free to see if you like it then there is a charge of £2.00 per session or £3 all day. Carers are always free.

For more information ring 07833 895 501 (or email thefridayfriends@outlook.com).

Registered Charity No 1177967.

Hewitt’s Property Services Cleaning Contractors and Building Maintenance Joinery, Plumbing Flat Roof work undertaken Woodworm Treatments Garden Maintenance Driveways, Patios, Gutters Cleaned End of Tenancy Cleans, Landlords and Contract Work welcome, Fully Insured, Competitive Rates, Est. 12 years For all your property needs call Steve on

07966 152553 Saltburn Rotary The final week of May finished with two fabulous events.

Firstly, our club members were delighted to welcome Saltburn Rotakids, new and old, to our regular meeting at The Victoria, where they were greeted by President Paul Chappell, who presented Rotakids President, Treasurer and Secretary with their badges of office. We look forward to supporting them in this excellent Rotary citizenship scheme and watching them grow and develop into valuable members of our community.

Then, we again held our now very successful annual “Afternoon Tea Party” in aid of Polio Eradication at Saltburn Cricket Club. As always, Microsoft‟s Bill Gates trebles every £1 raised, so a pleasant afternoon with tea (or something stronger) and scones will, without doubt, be life changing for many children less fortunate than our own.

The arrangements for our Howzat music festival in September in now gaining momentum. There are again 7 magnificent bands and this year the proceeds will be donated to “Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team”. Our first fundraiser will be a Tombola in June and tickets for the event can be purchased from Milo‟s or from Rotarian Harry Simpson. Further details can be found at www.howzatmusicfestival.co.uk.

The month of June sees President Paul Chappell enter the final weeks of his period of office, and we are all very proud and excited that Paul will be handing over to Lou Foster, who will be our first female President in the club‟s 93 year history. More on that in the next issue.

If you require further information or are interested in joining visit our Website or Facebook pages.

37

New Look Woodland Centre Saltburn Friends of the Valley Ltd, an independent local charity, is letting the light into Saltburn Woodland Centre.

Saltburn Woodland Centre has undergone a transformation – a building that was dark and shabby is now full of light with new doorway and ramp.

It is usually approached from the paths that run down into the Skelton river valley from Albion Terrace near the playground, or can be discovered through walking up through the valley from the beach past the Miniature Railway shed and the Valley Gardens Tea Rooms. The Centre is supported through the efforts of volunteers and a board of Trustees who, in 2008, secured a 25 year lease from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council on the centre and adjoining Old Nursery Gardens.

Since 2016 a project to make the centre fully accessible has been undertaken and now it has a new accessible entrance.

Monies from the North Yorkshire Coast and Hills LEADER Programme, a European funding stream, the Big Lottery Awards for All programme, Saltburn Marske and New Marske Parish Council, the Impetus Trust, and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council funded the construction. The successful work of volunteers at the centre and project manager, Ingrid Salomonsen, has meant this development could take place.

The new entrance spans the width of one end of the building and opens into the Old Nursery Gardens. The accessible pathway to the entrance links to the existing path which zig zags gently through the gardens. The new entrance has created more light in the centre and an opportunity for new activities.

The centre is now focussed on the garden which means that parties and activities, which need both of these areas, will function better. When necessary for health and safety reasons, the public access through the gardens can be suspended for private parties as there are other paths the public can use to gain access down into the valley.

In summer 2019 we will be taking forward the development of the centre with opportunities for artists to display and sell their work. Saltburn Friends of the Valley Ltd has recently been gifted original photographic artwork from 1998 by Roger Polley and John Woodman called „Mapping Saltburn‟. This will be displayed in June at the Woodland Centre.

Volunteer gardeners meet on Thursdays and are currently developing the new wildflower garden and are completing a „shade‟ garden.

We would like your ideas, skills and energy to help take things forward: we welcome suggestions on our website www.saltburnfriendsofthevalley.co.uk and will gladly respond to offers from volunteers who may want to contribute in the garden and centre.

We are also keen to hear from people who want to hire the centre for their events, courses or parties. We have a fully fitted kitchen and a wheelchair accessible toilet, with undercover pram and buggy storage. More information about costings can be found on the above website.

The running costs of the Woodland Centre and Old Nursery gardens come from Saltburn Friends of the Valley membership fees, only £24 per annum for an adult, donations from individuals and groups, grants, and sales of postcards and other goods.

38

Talk of the Town’s monthly

Pride of Saltburn Award

The winner of this month‟s bouquet of flowers is Kerry Agar. Kerry was nominated by her friend Paula Slater.

About her, she says, “I‟d like to nominate my best friend Kerry Agar for the Talk of the Town pride award.

Kerry has lived in Saltburn all her life, she is a well known and loved member of the community who deserves to receive this award to make her smile and to show her how much she‟s loved. Kerry‟s currently going through a very difficult time and her strength, love and care really deserves special recognition. She‟s currently caring for her amazing soon to be husband Sean who has been diagnosed with Motor Neurones disease. The selfless care she has given Sean is truly remarkable, she is a true living angel. As well as this she‟s still having to find the time to go to work at the Spar shop, hold down her family home, be a wonderful mum and she‟s still managing to be a great friend to others. She‟s one in a million. Not many people have the strength Kerry has and she still manages to smile.

Kerry you really are amazing!” Thank you, Kerry, for being you, the Pride of Saltburn.

Every month when a nomination is received, a £30 bunch of flowers, kindly donated by Ruby Lilly‟s Florists of Marske, is awarded to someone who has earned admiration, gratitude or love for whatever reason. We invite nominations from readers, to make someone feel special with a bunch of flowers! Send your nominations to Talk of the Town‟s post box at Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, Cleveland, TS12 1AQ or email Ian (talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com). (Please include your name, phone number and the reason you are nominating the person of your choice.) Please also confirm with the nominee that they are willing to receive the award (many people feel shy about it). All the nominations will be read and kept for future use, so even if your choice doesn‟t win this month, they might do so next time.

Sizzling Summer coming to the Cons Club Welcome to the monthly article from Saltburn Conservative Club.

May I start by offering congratulations to our beautiful town for the award it received when becoming a Blue Flag Beach.

The Blue Flag is considered to be the Gold standard and is awarded by The Foundation for Environmental Education. This certificate guarantees the quality of the bathing waters and to receive this award the beach must also run a minimum of five educational activities for locals and visitors showing the importance of looking after the natural environment. The award was also a glowing testament to the commitment of the Beachwatch team and the volunteers from „Kicas‟ who all deserve great credit for the work they carry out. I must also sing the praises of the Council for the brilliant organisation for the pier‟s 150th celebrations. A great day was had by all, culminating in the fireworks and the switching on of the pier lighting which, according to many, were the best the town has seen. Thank you all.

Moving on to club matters and I have to report that the renovations and upgrading of the Balmoral Room is very near to completion following a few small delays and the work will now be completed before the end of May. We still have a small amount of work to be carried out in the new bar and we also need to lay new flooring in the bar and the food preparation area. The flooring and carpet have been fitted and the eight Chesterfields have been moved in. In addition we also intend to put new flooring on the stairs and decorate the staircase area and the entrance hall plus re-painting the woodwork in the downstairs bar. In the fullness of time new furniture will be purchased to replace the current furniture in the bar but it all takes time and money. As the saying goes “Rome wasn‟t built in a day” but this work will be completed at the earliest opportunity.

Looking ahead to events taking place in the club in June and we start with a private 85th birthday party, which will include several members from the club in attendance, on Saturday, 1st June. This once again shows the benefit of being a member and being able to hire the club‟s facilities free of charge. This event is followed on Tuesday 4th with the monthly meeting of SLUG (Saltburn Line Users Group) at 7pm in the Balmoral Room.

Anybody interested in the local rail lines and future plans for the rail network will find this meeting very informative and everybody is welcome to attend. The entry is free. Thursday, 6th June brings the monthly meeting of our Backgammon club which is also held in the Balmoral Room. Attendance keeps improving every month and you are all welcome to come along. The function runs from 7pm to 9pm and don‟t worry if you have never played before. Experts will be in attendance to talk you through the game so you do not need to feel apprehensive. There is a fun and friendly atmosphere guaranteeing you a great night.

On Tuesday, 18th June we are holding a Clairvoyant Night with International medium Eddy Quinn. Tickets are priced at £3 if bought in advance or £5 on the door, subject to availability. The event will run from 7.30pm until 9.15pm. Tickets are going very well and there will be a good audience on the night. To ensure you get a ticket I would advise that you call in the club to buy a

ticket to avoid disappointment.

Following this on Friday 21st we have the „Open Mic Night‟ hosted by Liz Bishop and Friends. The evening starts with the taking of names from anybody wishing to play or sing from 7.30pm, with the music starting at 8pm. These evenings are once again becoming very popular and you are encouraged to arrive early for a seat. The event will take place in the Balmoral Room. Liz would love to see as many of you there as possible. Please note that this is not the normal Friday we host this event but Liz asked for a change of date owing to other commitments. All future events will, as usual, be on the last Friday of every month.

The final event of the month is on Saturday, 22nd June with the second road trip of the season, this time to York. Please note that we are only hiring one coach for this tour so it is vital that you book and pay for your seat ASAP. As I write this article several tickets have already been sold and it is with certainty that I say all places will be sold out very quickly. On the return to the club there will be a small buffet for all people who have been on the trip plus music to follow. The coach leaves the club at 10.30am and tickets are priced at £11 each which includes the buffet and a tip for the driver. If you need further information please contact Michelle at the club.

For all early information on events and all other club matters the best way is to go to the club‟s Facebook page at „Saltburn Conservative & Unionist Club‟. This page is updated on an almost daily basis to keep you informed and give you information that you will find useful for planning future events that may be of interest to you.

Please remember the regular events taking place every week which are the club draw for meat voucher, wines & chocolates on Tuesdays at 10pm and the drinks draw and cash rollover held every Sunday at 6pm prompt. As I write, the money rollover on the drinks draw stands at £575 and increases by £25 each week if not won. Remember „Happy hours‟ are from 4.30pm to 7pm midweek and from 3pm to 5pm weekends when a pint of beer will cost you only £2.20 plus discounts on spirits and lagers (approx 15 % off).

The club garden is now becoming very busy with the improvement in the weather and is a tremendous facility that we can provide to our members. I will be filling the pots and planters during the next week and adding more flowers to the borders to hopefully have a great display throughout the summer.

We have some big events coming up throughout the summer and I will keep you informed each month or you can refer to the club‟s Facebook page for early information.

That‟s all for now. Stay safe, happy and healthy and always love your family and friends.

Best wishes, David.

David Rigg, Club President Email : davidrigg21@yahoo.co.uk Article financially supported by Saltburn Conservative Club

Saltburn Cons Club: Future Events to Entertain in June Every Tuesday: Club Draw Nights for Meat Voucher, Wines & Chocolates… 10pm.

Every Sunday: Drinks Draw & Cash Rollover. Increases by £25 each week if not won, currently standing at £575… 6pm.

Saturday Afternoons: A get-together by „The Conmen‟ Americana Musicians Jam sessions... 3pm.

Saturday 1st: Private Birthday Party Tuesday 4th: SLUG Meeting (Saltburn Line Users Group)… 7pm Thursday 6th: Backgammon Club. Everybody welcome to come along… 7pm to 9pm Tuesday 18th: Clairvoyant Night with Eddy Quinn ... 7.30pm to 9.15pm Friday 21st: „Open Mic Night‟ hosted by Liz Bishop & Friends… 8pm.

Saturday 22nd: Club Road Trip to York, (buffet & music on return) … leave club at 10.30am 39

Used Stamps for Charity There is a box in Saltburn Library for used postage stamps which are a valuable source of income to a number of charities. Please drop your stamps in the library. Many thanks for your support. There is also a box in Marske Library.

Eric Matson (volunteer), 25 High Street, Skelton, Tel: 07985 767587

Love dancing? Want to shape up for the Summer?

A PILATES, YOGA & BALLET inspired class: This fitness class will TONE and DEFINE YOUR FIGURE. Also improves CORE STRENGTH, BALANCE and NATURAL FLEXIBILTY. Wednesdays - 7pm - EarthBeat Centre (BOOKING ESSENTIAL)

SOSA DANCE FITNESS puts the FABULOUS into FITNESS!!

Groove and get fit to all sorts of dances and music...

CABARET... BOLLYWOOD... DISCO… ROCK n ROLL... POP… and so much more!!

Mondays - 7pm - ECHO - £4pp

(DISCOUNT! Only £6 for both Zumba Gold & Sosa on Mondays)

Packed with International & Latin beats…

This FUN and EASY TO FOLLOW class is TONING and a great OVERALL WORKOUT. Watch out for ‘bums & tums’ targeted dances!

Mondays - 6pm - ECHO - £4pp Thursdays - 10am - SCAA - £4pp (DISCOUNT! Only £6 for both Zumba Gold & Sosa on Mondays)

Holly Blue

Call ESTELLE on 07887 525234 or visit...

We have a large range of Quality Greetings Cards, Wrap, Bags, Balloons, Books, Stationery, Jigsaws, Orchard Toys, Calendars, Diaries & much more.

Book Ordering Service, Quarterly Prize Draw & Loyalty Card System 45 Milton Street (Opposite Sainsbury’s Car Park)

TIME SERVED

Tel: 01287 624283 LEGAL SERVICES AVAILABLE IN YOUR OWN HOME AT VERY COMPETITIVE RATES

I have recently retired after providing legal services at a local solicitors for almost forty years and am now able to provide legal assistance in respect of wills, powers of attorney and help to deal with matters following a bereavement including the obtaining of a Grant of Probate. Please call me on 07402 777393 and I will be happy to visit you in your own home to discuss your requirements and give a quotation.

LORNA SMITH 40

Saving And Re-homing Animals THE ANN PROSSER FOUNDATION

A small charity seeking to rescue and re-home cats and dogs, Tel: 01642 488108 (weekdays only, 10am to 2pm).

SARA has many dogs and cats that need new homes. All are clean, healthy, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

Hello! This month from SARA are Sandy, Katie and Ella the cats. Sandy is an attractive tabby tortie lady and she is about 6 years old. Like all our cats, Sandy is spayed. She would need access to the outdoors as she adores sunbathing. Sandy is a very sweet girl who loves nothing more than having a cuddle with our highly trained volunteer cat „cuddlers‟. She would like to be homed as an only pet, so she receives all the love and attention!

Katie and Ella are sisters and around 10 years young. They are very similar looking, both white with tabby patches, but the patches on their faces differ slightly, just so you can tell them apart. Katie and Ella are a very charming pair of cats who are looking for a nice

quiet home. We will find them snuggled together in the same bed more often than not. Katie and Ella are quiet and laid back, and they love to spend most of their time relaxing in their beds, especially when it‟s a sunny day! They love to have our friendly volunteers spend time with them giving them a fuss and cuddle. We hope they will not spend much more time in our cattery as they seem to be getting overlooked, perhaps because they are always snuggled up together in the back when the public come to view the cats. As they are so inseparable, they would need to be homed together, and be the only pets in household. They would also need safe access to the great outdoors.

SARA fundraising events during June Don‟t forget our monthly meetings for SARA supporters are now held in the Cleveland bay, Ings Road in Redcar on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. Our next one is Tuesday, 4th June. Come along and hear all our news, meet new members and find out what we are all about and what new and exciting things we have planned.

Our next event will be our Strawberry Afternoon Tea and Craft Fayre – Foxrush Farm – Sunday, 2nd June at 13:00 – 16:00 at the Sanctuary featuring the Ladies Tribal Dancers. Come along to our special afternoon at Foxrush Farm. We offer new and different craft stalls as well as our usual SARA stalls including books, jewellery, tombolas and raffles. A new attraction will be The Ladies American Tribal Dancers 14:00 – 15:00 who will perform

in the barn. Strawberries will be in abundance to tempt you. Bring family, friends and dogs. There is no entrance fee – all are welcome. See you there.

There will be a street collection in Saltburn on Saturday 15th June to help raise funds.

The 5th Spring Stroll along Redcar Stray to Marske took place on Bank Holiday Monday and it was a great success despite an unpromising start weather-wise.

However, fortunately the rain ceased at the beginning of the walk allowing two legged and four legged participants to enjoy pleasant conditions. See more on the Spring Stroll on page 8.

Joy and Mandy

Volunteers at SARA 41

150 years with a Pier After days of biting wind and low temperatures the 11th May dawned with a friendly presence rising in the East, heralding a perfect day to be enjoyed by thousands. A time to celebrate and celebration was certainly seen on faces young and old throughout a peaceful and joyous day.

Whilst the date itself was controversial because no evidence was produced to verify any formal opening on this day in 1869, neither had any research averred that another date was found in any archive. Avoiding bank holidays, obtaining a suitable tide, avoiding any elections, be they local or European, missing games of association football and any other leisure diversions, was a search well explored.

The event was led by volunteers from SNAP and success was attributable in the main to the considerable contribution from residents. The Borough Council gave strong support and necessary funding to finance additional services and the final set piece.

The presence of costumed persons either going about their business or simply promenading immediately evoked memories of famous Saltburn Victorian Weeks.

A common voice indicated that more advance publicity would have been helpful and that some town activities were not covered. These comments were understood whilst highlighting that preplanning had been time limited and some organisations had not completed the communications loop.

Despite these, and some hiccups during the day, a period of activity unfolded which brought fun and wonder and lasting memories.

The ringing of the Yorkshire Surprise Major from 42

Emmanuel Church bell tower was music to many an ear and signalled the commencement of the main Pier Celebration.

This was immediately followed by Marske Brass Band, encouraging costumed promenaders to enter upon the pier.

Within the assembled company were penny farthing owners, Saltburn Victorian Footballers, a visitor taking a day trip from Barcelona and three museum piece policemen.

At precisely 1.50pm the enormous burgundy ribbon stretched across the pier was to be cut by a nominated dignitary. This honour fell to Dorothy Powell who has lived all her long life in Saltburn, being born in Arlington House and still residing in the town. Dorothy cut the ribbon which was held in the attentive hands of three fellow residents of mature status, Betty Lynas, Sybil Wells and May Whiley.

Saltburn was never in more meritorious hands.

Hazelgrove resounded to music from a temporary staging which hosted many local artists including the revival of the Saltburn Pierrots, who had featured in the Old Time Musical at the Community Theatre the night before.

150 sand castles built by Rainbows, Brownies and Girl Guides stood beside a most incredibly impressive artistic sand creation of Henry Pease, while 150 knitted works of art adorned the pier.

With the Cliff Lift recording a record number of passengers, the day drew to a close. The newly installed under pier lighting was switched on by Marjorie Bainbridge, to gasps of approval and an eight minute extravaganza of pyrotechnics lit up the sky and the hearts of all in attendance.

Discover King David: A man after God’s own heart After Jesus Christ no else gets as big a biography in the Bible as the Old Testament King David. But how much do you know of his story after recalling the famous encounter with Goliath, the Philistine giant who David the shepherd boy knocked down with his sling shot. In the two books of Samuel we see revealed a very human life, lived in a very broken world. And yet David’s story more importantly reveals a most wonderful picture of the beautiful, powerful and generous love of God for David. This coming June, July & August I invite you to come to the Tuesday morning 9.30am service at Emmanuel and join us in exploring David’s life and how he speaks to us today.

Services Times Sundays in June 9.00am traditional communion 10.45am contemporary worship

Tuesdays in June 9.30am said communion

Morning Prayer 9.00am Tues-Fri in ECHO

Contact Details tel 01287 622251

email emmanuelsaltburn@hotmail.co.uk

web www.emmanuelsaltburn.co.uk

Visitor and Exhibition opening times in June

Saturday 22nd June 10am - 12pm Emmanuel Church Hall

Saturdays 1st, 15th & 29th 10am - 4pm Sundays 9th & 23rd 1 - 4pm

All welcome for coffee & cake in a warm and friendly environment

43

Could the Face of Saltburn be Changed Forever?

In early April a small group of determined local residents, unhappy with the prospect of a huge development appearing on the edge of a largely unsuspecting town, banded together to publicise it and garner support from other like-minded locals. This objection-movement, after a quickly arranged leaflet distribution, gained momentum and culminated in a quickly-arranged public meeting, held at The Spa Hotel on 13th May. Attended by approximately 200 people, it was hosted by two Saltburn residents, Patricia Towey in the chair and David Jinks, who gave a well-informed presentation.

Claire Griffiths was also in attendance as the Planning Manager representing Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

The proposed members-only holiday park will comprise of 170 pitches (for statics, tourers and glamping pods), a reception, café, shop, two amenity blocks, splash pool and children‟s play area.

Background This holiday park opportunity was identified by the assets team of the Council. They were tasked with encouraging tourism to the area, and they highlighted this field as a suitable location for a camping and caravan park. They then approached the landowners, Skelton and Gilling Estates, to determine if this was acceptable to them, and they, in turn, contacted the Camping and Caravan Club, who appointed the development organisation WYG. The original proposal was that the council would take a head lease on the site and grant a sub-lease to the developer/club. However, at the meeting, this situation was unclear. If this is the case, then clearly the council‟s involvement in promoting the site and the fact that it would benefit financially, leads one to question whether it would be able to determine the application in relation to its planning policies in an impartial manner. Responding to a question from the floor, Mrs Griffiths said that Committee members do not need to declare any commercial interest in the proposed venture.

What is perplexing is why the council identified this location as an acceptable opportunity when it runs contrary to the policies within its own adopted Local Plan.

Local Plan The councils “Local Plan” is a very comprehensive 300 page document, whose strategy was agreed upon, and adopted in May 2018. The Local Plan and the supporting text contain the following statements: “The coastline from Saltburn eastward is defined as the North Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast, an area protected against any development which may harm its special character” and “Our important natural and historic assets will be protected and enhanced in order to provide good quality environments that will allow wildlife to thrive”.

The development would be highly visible from Saltburn, Skelton, Brotton and the Heritage Coastline at Huntcliff, and it would be detrimental to the charm of the town. The area is beautiful, and borders on a woodland conservation, heritage and site of special scientific interest established in 1986. The area is a green-field site between the two valleys of the Valley Gardens and Rifts Wood.

The council has, in fact, chosen to select one of the most environmentally sensitive sites in the vicinity of Saltburn for this project.

It should be noted that an A4 document was observed, attached to a lamppost in the vicinity of the proposed development. The document was “Notice under article 15 of 44

the town and country planning development management procedure order 2015”, signed by Amanda Skelton, the Chief Executive Officer of Redcar Council.

This document stated, “The proposed development does not accord with the provisions of the development plan in force, in the area in which the land, to which the application relates, is situated”.

That is to say, it acknowledges that the development is totally contradictory to the council‟s own Local Plan.

Local Ecology It should also be noted that, the Ecology Appraisal which WYG undertook, comprised of a desk study, a single walk over and a reconnaissance. This is totally inadequate as surveys should be undertaken specifically in the growing and breeding seasons.

Fire and Rescue It transpires that Cleveland Fire and Rescue have not been consulted over these plans. It is considered that access for the appliances, surface strength, turning circles and water supplies may not be appropriate and suitable.

Access The access to the proposed site is on Saltburn Lane, which is a narrow and busy road, with a very steep climb, and poor visibility on its five blind bends up to the Skelton roundabout.

Traffic and Parking Saltburn already lacks adequate parking facilities. The council should be addressing this issue, not potentially exacerbating the already existing problem.

Flood / Landslips / Adverse Weather The hard standing and new on-site road infrastructure will reduce the area of land available to absorb water, and consequently there will be more surface run-off water, increasing the downstream flood risk below the caravan park.

This location has, in the past, had issues pertaining to land slippage.

The meeting voted unanimously that the next stage in this process is to enlist the Department of the Environment and to have a public enquiry.

Conclusion This proposal is the total antithesis of the council‟s own adopted Local Plan. It does not meet the criteria of Policy N1.

Had a developer approached the council with this proposal, it would have been expected that the council would have rejected the notion, and instead, defended its own adopted Local Plan.

However, this is not the case, as it was the council, themselves, who instigated this development.

Saltburn did, of course, have a caravan site, which is now the holiday park “Ting Dene”. It should be remembered that the council lost all control over this development. It would seem that history is repeating itself. In his summation of the planning proposal, Mr Jinks highlighted that the Caravan & Camping Club has a sub-website selling static caravans.

The vista over the cliff tops in Saltburn is iconic. To mar this with permanent buildings, caravans and tents is totally unacceptable. One of Saltburn‟s attractions and appeal is its beauty.

This is a classic case of breaking the golden rule of business, that is to say you do not “de-value” the very product which you are selling. It is tantamount to killing the goose that laid the golden egg.

Further information can be found on the group‟s Facebook site „Save Our Saltburn‟.

The Save Our Saltburn Team

Katie Carpenter launches Keeksies Cakes “I remember getting up early on Saturday mornings to make cakes with my Dad at the Grapevine when I was just four. I used to stand on a mayonnaise bucket to reach!” says Katie Carpenter. The family used to live over the restaurant in Redcar when her Dad, John, was the chef. Her brother, Brad, has gone on to study for his Head Chef qualification and to work alongside John at Chapters Restaurant in Stokesley, while Katie, now aged twenty-four, has set up her own thriving home-based business, Keeksies Cakes.

As a child, Katie moved to Saltburn and went to Huntcliff School, where she excelled in Art, gaining four Distinction stars. She began courses in Art, Photography, Media and Textiles at Prior Pursglove College, but swapped to do a BTEC in Health and Social Care at Middlesbrough College. She did work experience at Greta Cottage and then took up an apprenticeship in Care, achieving an NVQ Level 4. After this, she worked for Caremark, visiting people in their own homes.

Katie then gave birth to Alfie, who is now four. While coping with post-natal depression, she started making cakes again for friends and family and told her partner, Jason: “I‟m going to do this as a job.” She bought £200 worth of cakemaking equipment and began to get orders from people she didn‟t know. So she registered the business and got a Level 5 hygiene rating for her kitchen in her home at Liverton Mines.

“Her kitchen isn‟t massive, but it‟s well-organised,” says her Mum, Donna Parmley, who is a hairdresser at Trendz in Saltburn. She has a glass cabinet with shelves for her tools and one of her two fridges is reserved for her cake-making ingredients. There is a high shelf for the cakes, out of reach of Alfie and Maggie, who is two. “The house smells gorgeous!” continues Donna.

The children love the business going on around them.

When Alfie was helping to mix a batter for a cake for himself and Maggie recently, he was heard to say: “This makes me feel happy.” As he is good with his hands, Katie and Donna think he might be a chef one day.

Katie spends between twelve and twenty hours a week making cakes, depending on orders. This includes evenings when the children are in bed, times when the Grandmas have them and hours in the daytime when Jason can take charge, as he is a shift worker.

Katie has taken advice from her Dad, but she has also taught herself by watching You Tube videos and has started buying books, including one on teaching yourself how to make delicate sugar flowers for big wedding cakes. She made a chocolate cake and her Dad told her it was better than his.

“That‟s all I ever wanted to hear in life!” she says.

The cakes made include celebration cakes for weddings, christenings, birthdays, baby showers and birthday parties and individual cup cakes. Katie has enquired about making cakes for shops and tea rooms, but at the time of writing, has heard nothing back yet.

She personalises cakes to what the buyer is asking. “I had one order from a girl in Australia who wanted a cake for her Dad‟s sixtieth birthday in Redcar. She wanted the landscape of Route 66 in the USA, with a Winnie the Pooh figure at the side. She wanted to share her memory of when she‟d lost her Winnie the Pooh by Route 66, when she was a child. I modelled it, after she had drawn it on the computer,”

she explains.

Katie has modelled round Paw Patrol, Frozen, Moana and the Fortnite game for children. Cakes for adults have included a Louis Vuitton handbag design and a vehicle shaped Lightning McQueen from Cars theme.

On Mother‟s Day, Katie made cakes for a table top stall at Liverton Village Hall. It was a Big Cosy charity event in aid of Breast Cancer support. She will also have a stall at the Family Fun Day at Dormanstown Sports Centre on 29th June. “For the Big Cosy event, I put cake and butter cream in an Easter egg and this was popular,” she says. She has a vast range of flavours that customers can choose from, including lemon meringue, lotus biscoff caramel, rich velvet and chocolate orange.

Katie will deliver her cakes from Scarborough to Stockton and has a scale of charges for this. A customer did a round trip of a hundred miles to collect a cake a couple of years ago and said it was worth the journey. Cup cakes cost from £1.50 - £2.00 each and celebration cakes range from £25 to £110 for three tiers. She can be contacted @keeksiescakes on Facebook and on Instagram. Orders can be phoned to 07804 909855 (or emailed at keeksemjo@gmail.com). Donna has also been handing out flyers in Saltburn.

What does Katie most enjoy about her business? “I love making sponges and modelling. It‟s relaxing and therapeutic,” she says. “One day, I‟d love to have my own cake shop, but just now I‟m busy planning my own wedding cake for September!”

She certainly has enthusiastic family support. Says Donna of her future son-in-law: “Jason is so proud of her.”

Rosemary Nicholls 45

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46

At this time of year I have a job to do that I have repeated each year for the last three decades. I am editor in chief for the world‟s oldest annual publication. Older readers of Talk of the Town in particular may recognise the title, which is Old Moore’s Almanac. This annual was first published in the year 1697, during the reign of King Charles II. The Almanac was at first restricted to weather forecasts but from 1700 onwards it began to carry the sort of predictions for national and world events that still fill its pages today. The first Old Moore, Francis Moore was an astrologer and an astronomer (they were pretty much the same thing back then). When Francis Moore died his Almanac had become so popular that it was continued in his name by other star gazers, and so it has continued for 322 years.

The astrological predictions that occupy Old Moore’s Almanac these days come from some of the best astrologers to be found and with co-operation from other agencies it is my job to make them into useable and interesting copy that is published towards the end of every year. I am proud to have occupied the position of editor in chief for at least 1/10th of the time the Almanac has existed, but the job does have its difficulties.

I have constantly striven to reflect the historical nature of the Almanac in the language the present Old Moore uses to pass on his timeless information to the people of the world – partly because I love the way English was written and spoken centuries ago but also because it seems appropriate and stands as a testimony to the man who started it all so far in the past. Despite these efforts Old Moore has gradually become chattier and more colloquial for a modern audience and in this way he reflects the passage of time. In the coming year I have been encouraged to make his language even more modern and since I „serve‟ Old Moore, rather than ruling him, that is what I have tried to do.

As an example, in the years I have been involved Old Moore has always referred to himself in the third person – a little like Agatha Christie‟s detective Hercule Poirot but those who read Old Moore’s Almanac for the year 2020 will discover that this situation has altered and that terms such as “ I think” or “I predict” will be used instead of “Old Moore predicts” or “Old Moore suggests.” These may not seem like significant changes but it is a fact that Dr Francis Moore himself would have found the modern idiom puzzling and probably a little vulgar.

In a way it probably does not matter at all but I love the sense of continuity and am always somewhat hesitant to bring the old man up to date. The procedures used to achieve the predictions remain the same and are as timeless as the Almanac itself – even if the astrologers in question now generally obtain their astronomical computations via a computer, rather than spending days with a quill pen and tables of complicated numbers. As for the original Dr Francis Moore, he would have been astounded, not only to learn that he would still be in print after over three centuries but that the market for astrology, which science generally hates, is still alive and well in 2020. Who knows? He may be up there somewhere waiting anxiously for each new copy to appear – even if he does think it a little „common‟ these days.

The Saltburn Profile by Rosemary Nicholls Alison Smith “We are so fortunate in Saltburn to have the beautiful, iconic building of the Community Centre, making it possible for us to offer a range of excellent cultural activities,” says SCAA Membership Secretary, Alison Smith. “Our membership is increasing and we are delighted that our outreach is also extending to young people and asylum seeker/refugee families whom we welcome to our Junior Film Events.”

Alison was born in a nursing home in Newcastle, but spent her first six years living on a mixed farm at Margrove Park, Guisborough. Her first school was in the village in what is now the Heritage Centre, but a change in family circumstances led them to move to Ormesby, where her mother, Lena Jackson, took up a teaching post. They subsequently moved to Lazenby and Alison went to Cleveland Girls‟ Grammar School at Redcar.

She left for London, where she studied Psychology at University College. To fulfil her aim to become an Educational Psychologist, she needed two years‟ teaching experience, so she trained at Goldsmiths‟ College, specialising in multi-cultural education and then taught in North Acton. “It was a very challenging experience,” she says, “as children were „bussed in‟ from Southall to ensure mixed schooling.”

Next she went to Exeter University to train as an Educational Psychologist, where she met her husband Dave.

They married and both found work in Cleveland: Dave in Redcar and Alison in Stockton, serving Billingham and Norton schools. After eight years, she took a career break to raise their children, Charlotte and Joseph.

Every year she received a UNICEF Christmas card from a friend and was intrigued to find out more about the charity. She went to meetings in Central London and National Conferences and began to fundraise. “I was very impressed by the lean, well-focused organisation,” she explains.

In 1992, an opportunity arose for Alison to go on a study tour of UNICEF projects in Kenya and emergency work in war torn Southern Sudan and Somalia. She flew with a group of volunteers to Nairobi, where they were able to see sustainable projects. “The people were contributing manpower to ideas that were drawn up on a 50/50 basis and despite their living in horrendous slums, they showed joy and pride in what they were achieving,” she says.

Southern Sudan was at war with its neighbour in the north and also suffering a devastating civil war. Spending time in camps under daily threat of bombing and observing UNICEF staff working with children who had little chance of survival was, she says, a life changing experience. She came away with total respect for the way UNICEF works in partnership. On her return, Alison was asked to become the UNICEF North-East Volunteer Development Officer, providing advocacy and fundraising. Also for several years, she visited local schools to educate our children about the charity and its projects.

When Joseph started school, Alison took up supply teaching at Newstead Primary School, Guisborough and after a while, became a full-time permanent member of staff. She co-ordinated Personal, Health and Social Education and stayed till her retirement in 2011.

A new chapter in Alison‟s life began when she fell on two occasions, breaking several bones. She was referred to the Fracture Liaison Service at James Cook Hospital and was diagnosed with osteoporosis. “I subsequently became

involved with the National Osteoporosis Society and now sit on the Members‟ and Volunteers‟ Committee in London.”

Three years ago, she was asked to join an advisory group for the Royal College of Physicians; its aim is to develop Fracture Liaison Services to a high standard across the country. Then last autumn, she accepted invitations to be on a Royal College Patient Panel and on a Standards Committee aiming to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support for people living with osteoporosis.

The charity became the Royal Osteoporosis Society under the patronage of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall last February and on meeting her, Alison was impressed with her personal commitment to research and cure. Locally, Alison is involved with the Teesside Osteoporosis Support Group which meets bi-monthly for a programme of talks and support. “As one in five women over fifty will suffer a fragility fracture, it is so important that people learn about how to maintain bone health,” she adds.

On retirement, Alison volunteered with Justice First, a Stockton-based charity helping people seeking sanctuary in our country. Through that, she became a Trustee of Middlesbrough-based Mary Thompson Fund, which helps asylum seekers who have no recourse to public funds. “We work with people at the point of crisis,” she says, “providing bags of food, friendship and supporting basic needs. We fundraise to do this.”

For the last two years, Alison has been a Trustee of Saltburn Community and Arts Association and Membership Secretary. She has played a part in building up the benefits of membership of SCAA. “In appreciation of members‟ support, we have recently had free membership nights, including a murder mystery, with Ann Cleeves donating a copy of her latest book.” Alison and Dave often join the team of volunteers at jazz and seaside folk events and would highly recommend volunteering!

As well as Africa, Alison has visited South Asia, where she enjoyed meeting people of different cultures: a thread through her life.

47

1st Saltburn Scout Group The Whitsun break is fast approaching and the benefit of the lighter nights is very apparent, with all Sections getting out, be it to visit the play park, practise road safety or in the case of Scouts, just to get outside to enjoy the additional space and fresh air!

All Sections attended the St George‟s Day Parade and Service at Marske; attendance was in some cases woeful!

Lindsey was less than pleased to only have three Beavers (enough to have a Flag Bearer and two escorts), Cubs managed eleven out of twenty so were the best attendees and Scouts had five out of a possible sixteen. The weather was kind to them and the sun shone, better than the weather I had (being unable to attend as my family and I had an invitation to the Queen‟s Scout Parade at Windsor Castle the same day) where it managed to be very cold and rained on the Queen‟s Scouts whilst they were inspected by Bear Grylls – our Chief Scout – and the Duke of Kent as our Royal representative. Those attendees will be rewarded later, after a discussion at the Group Executive, for their commitment. The only regret for our District was that holding the Parade involves road closures and under the rules of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council a private security firm had to deal with this at a cost of £650 to the District!

Members of all the Sections are preparing to enjoy attending the County Fun Day in June; which is combined with the County‟s Annual AGM meeting. Whilst Beavers and Cubs have the opportunity to attend the „Damboree‟, which last year was a camp for Beavers and this year Cubs have been invited as well. Scouts are preparing for an RAF Takeover Day at the Yorkshire Air Museum in August.

The Group is also preparing for our Annual Parents‟ Meeting and presentation of Reports in June.

Thanks to those parents who continue to assist with all Sections in their activities; if you can offer assistance or are interested in joining us, you would be very welcome. Please enquire.

John G. Hannah – 07811 801627 or johnghannah@yahoo.co.uk

Saltburn Line User Group Next Meeting: Tuesday, 4th June 2019 at 7.00pm.

Meetings at Saltburn Conservative Club are held on the first Tuesday of the month, and our starting time is now (permanently) 7pm.

As always, all welcome.

Talk to Saltburn Line User Group.

The Group exists to protect passengers‟ interests.

Find us at www.facebook.com/ saltburnlineusergroup Email the secretary on: slugsecretary@virginmedia.com SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LINE 48

Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society

We conclude our 2018-19 season with two meetings in June.

Wednesday 5th June: Visitor Keith Waugh and Geoff Reynolds display.

Wednesday 19th June is our AGM followed by members‟ displays of anything „non-philatelic‟.

York Racecourse is venue to the Annual Stamp and Coin Fair on July 19th20th when two of our senior members will compete in the Northern England‟s National Philatelic Competitions.

Saltburn, Redcar and Cleveland Philatelic Society‟s 2019-20 season begins on Wednesday, 4th September.

Contacts: Mr. G. Reynolds 01642 478229 Mr. M. Snowdon 01287 622504

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Postal Subscription to Talk of the Town If you enjoy reading Talk of the Town, why not subscribe to the postal service? You can have the magazine delivered to your door, anywhere in the UK for as little as £33.50 per year.

Write to us at TotT Subscriptions, 9 The Wynd, Marske, Cleveland, TS11 7LD. Don’t forget to enclose your name and address or alternatively, you can call us on 01642 477200 if you wish to pay by credit or debit card.

Saltburn Allotments Association We had a long dry spell last summer and again in spring this year so it may be time to think about how you use water.

Water is becoming a scarce resource and we can use it more wisely with planning. A good start is to put water barrels on your shed, greenhouse or chicken shed!

Most of us have one and some of us have all! So collect as much as you can when it rains. We can do a lot to reduce how much we use. It‟s better to apply early or late in the day, using a sprinkler or rose is a waste of time, as most of this will evaporate! It‟s far more efficient to water the soil directly. I saw a good idea recently! Open a channel next to the plants, strike a line with string or a plank and make a small trench, Firm the sides so it does not collapse and put water in to the channel and it goes in more directly to the roots. When you do, WATER HEAVILY, that way plants root more deeply and withstand dry spells much better. When planting I always water the hole I make for the plant well and cover the surface with dry compost so it does not evaporate away! Choose what you water … new plantings should have a weekly soak if no rain and water plants that are setting or developing fruit or when roots are swelling. When the soil is moist, the best advice is to add a mulch to keep it there!

It‟s the month to plant out all your tender plants including tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes and sweet corn. Continue to plant your successional crops like salad, roots and brassicas to keep a regular supply.

Water them in well and mulch to give them the best start. Harvest crops that are ready regularly.

Check your greenhouse daily to ensure plants don‟t dry out and humidity is kept up by wetting the floor, and ventilate well.

Come and see us at the farmers‟ market this month; we should have a supply of plants and surplus produce for sale and perhaps some cordial. And don‟t forget to plant some flowers at the edge of your plot if you are on the roadsides to impress the „in bloom‟ judges and make the sites look more colourful.

Here is a lovely poem from one of our plot holders! But most of all enjoy your plot this month!

My Allotment I have a place I go when I want some peace, when I want the chaos in this world to cease.

My own little world, my own patch of ground, where the wind in the trees is the only sound.

I dig at my allotment and sow a lot of seeds then I do battle with the endless weeds.

But it‟s all worth it: every moment is divine; on my allotment everything is fine.

By Kenny McIntyre Julia

The Muses of Jim It is nice to be back and thank you Molly for doing such a good job. I know many people enjoyed your two pieces of work because they told me so often. I got quite jealous at times. Well done Molly.

After several months of feeling unwell I now have been fitted with a Cardioverter Defibrillator, which has improved the quality of my life no end. I feel stronger each day although I have to make sure that I don‟t overdo it. I am due my first check next week. So fingers crossed. I must be clear: in the last fifteen months I have been met only with the most caring and professional manner from every member of the Health Service that I have come into contact with, whether in my own doctors‟ practice and in all the clinics and hospitals in the area, but I have seen many patients and other members of the public acting in a very rude manner towards staff members.

The celebration of the opening of the pier appears to have been a great success with a goodly number of people dressing up for the day and as usual the fireworks display was very popular with demands for the fireworks to be an annual event. Why not indeed? I am sure most shops would be willing to display collection tins for donations from the public. I am sure that the people of Saltburn would rise to the occasion, as they usual do.

At the moment most of Saltburn is concerned over the proposed planning application across the valley. There are several valid grounds for objection for the scheme, but loss of a view is not one of them and of course some people will waste time protesting against the loss of a vista. What I would think was the most import requirements to be sorted out when the planning application was considered would be to upgrade the country lane to a proper road spec with a proper kerbside footpath with proper street lighting. The icing on the top would be to build a bridge across to Saltburn, saving traffic the difficult drive north and south.

On a positive side my house martins have taken up residence at number 13, much to the delight of Leven Street residents. Spud just ignores them. On the downside some kind person has trashed my self-setting Buddleia.

Good for insects. House martins eat insects. This would never happen in Pontefract, my hometown; you might lose your whippet instead. As there was a letter, but no envelope, about loving the Borough signed with a squiggle, but a readable name. The Borough was contacted. Watch this space.

I am an avid listener of BBC Radio 4 and the other day in a morning session there was a spot on the state of Seaside Towns. It appears that all such towns are in dire straits, poor housing, high unemployment, poor health etc, etc. Suddenly there was a voice saying he was speaking from Saltburn-by-the-Sea. I didn‟t catch his name nor recognise his voice. The radio presenter said that the town‟s name was ever so quaint. The member of public continued with a tirade that the town is packed when the sun shines and the residents can‟t park in the town, so he is planning to move away. We can almost hear a councillor planning the another parking scheme.

Jim Wingham 49

The Saltburn Crossword no 216 set by Mandrake Across

Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ ________________________________________ Telephone_______________________________

1 Our Parish Council‟s Latin motto is found by sorting rugs then I muse mainly (8) 4 Local town hiding charred carcass (6) 8 and 19 Across Local road transform fun vet raise (5, 6) 10 Domestic animal a bit embarrassed? (5) 12 Raise to the aristocracy le bon en change (7) 13 Temporary employee first training to entice (5) 14 Outdoor swimming pools insert zero in the covers (5) 15 Month for a steady walk? (5) 18 Musical instrument for drinking wine from? (5) 19 See 8 Across 21 She‟s a wonder! (5) 22 Not late and not too early but just… (2, 4) 23 Doctor Who‟s enemy adds Krypton starting after valley (5) 24 Not many on Saltburn beach to re-examine nudes! (5) 28 Voters do it for one candidate of the selection (5) 30 To live and tolerate (5) 31 and 17 Down Saltburn therapy business flying high and lanes (7, 5) 32 Saltburn café serving teas with tennis first (5) 33 Chemical element in far gone conclusion (5) 34 Spice to head butt poor Margaret? (6) 35 American team sport at the bottom of the round toy (8)

Down 1 2 3 5 6 7 9 11 15 16 17 20 25 26 27 29 30

Solution to Crossword no 215

The winner of last month‟s crossword was Ron Coates of Derwent Avenue, Guisborough.

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Country Outfitters Tel: (01287) 623754 Website: www.dvtownend.com Email: info@dvtownend.com Specialising in practical but stylish leisure and outdoor wear, we also stock a wide range of accessories, gifts and leather items from the most famous brands including Aigle, Magee, Seasalt and Tumble & Hide.

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Fish like small herrings broke trap by Soviet ship (6) Something inserted by bins eternal (5) African country given by a hug and a kiss (6) Artist‟s stand to make rest from work before student (5) Yellow crop for oil to give ears deep prodding (8) Describes 3-dimensional square shape by baby fox I see (5) They can be compiled to trace one‟s ancestors if lame tyres move (6, 5) Threatening survival, range ending confused (11) Made kitten sound by some wedding (5) Resident of a European capital first reaching Gulf state (5) See 33 Across Local village has a whin in Saltburn (8) The fifth (Japanese) sense of taste is part of the sum. Am I right? (6) Strange puzzle breaks imagine I lost (6) The dog house spoken Nelly revealed (6) Something musically made into variations like 26 Down! (5) Precious stone for an entrance (5) Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 216, c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ

by Friday, 14th June 2019. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Tim and Sheila of Real Meals.

Health and Happiness It is easy to have a low opinion of what we can achieve, to not believe we can fulfil our perfect life, to have a wonderful partner, the job of our dreams or anything else we think we want.

It is interesting to notice how our families influence us to accept many things as normal. The type of food they eat, how much TV they watch or exercise they do and what they believed they could achieve in their life.

Not long ago it was more normal for children to follow their parents into the same profession, keeping their aspirations more or less on the same level. It feels important to notice the effect it can have on us to be held back in what we think we can achieve because of the limiting beliefs of our parents. Or conversely if they have high ideals for you and (in my case at least) that leads them to being disappointed with me as I ended up valuing completely different achievements to the sort that they valued. Yet what is achievement?

It seems to me that it is meaningless to say one achievement in life is really any „better‟ than another. Some people will work all their life to deliver milk to everyone in the community, many will massively appreciate this and know them personally and they may feel a great sense of service from their job and the life they have lived. For someone else it might be valuing material things they can see, like building a house or a business man building a skyscraper as an attempt to show off what they have been able to create and leave as a legacy. Some people don‟t value a sense of visual achievement or a sense of being in service at all. Some are happy to never have a job at all and live on very little money but perhaps instead they build good strong bonds with other people in their family who are around them every day. Maybe this bond is more important to them than any job or anything else that others might consider an achievement.

Looking now at the transition from child to youth to

adult I can see how quickly we become set in our ways and pick up patterns that we sometimes keep for life. We are really pattern creating machines and so what we do regularly becomes our most worn groove, the sound on the record that keeps playing most often.

We are all so lucky to live in or near this incredibly cute little corner of England with its beautiful white sand smile and the strong jaw line of Huntcliff and the thick head of green hair that is the magnificent woods.

I‟ve been in countries where there‟s no fresh water to drink, places where nothing grows, there‟s no sanitation, disease is alive in the open sewers where children are playing. Places where there‟s no such thing as child care, where school is a luxury and doctors are miles away and not free. Places where jobs are almost non-existent and there are no leisure centres or libraries or trains or planes or people planning their holidays. It‟s amazing how unappreciative of what we have we can become if we are not careful.

Sometimes we might not notice our fortune here, until we go far away and see how others are living and remember that but for a quirk of nature we could easily have been born into that life, though filled with many other joys and connections there would be too.

If we are wise we can realise the value of appreciating what we have rather than lamenting what we don‟t. Life is short, it zips by, happiness is created inside us by us, yet it is easy to forget that. There is power in realising that our experience of life changes depending on how we choose to look at it.

Kendal Aitken Mental Health and Happiness Training Individuals and Groups.

Contact: coach@happygreenblueeyes.co.uk or 07944 883961

Saltburn friends raise thousands running for Parkinson’s UK A Saltburn-based team of friends have each run 50 miles in 50 days to raise vital funds for the charity Parkinson‟s UK. Yaldren‟s Heroes arrived at Saltburn‟s Cliff Lift at the end of their final mile in April (pictured), raised over £10,000 to fund vital research into finding a cure for Parkinson‟s Disease as part of the national Time To Run challenge. The campaign, launched on 26th February 2019 by charity Parkinson‟s UK, asked participants to run 50 miles over 50 days. Miles could be done anywhere – on a road, on a treadmill, even up a volcano. It all counted towards the total.

The squad of 43 joined the cause in support of their mutual friend and Saltburn resident, Jo Yaldren. Former nurse and now university lecturer Jo was diagnosed with Parkinson‟s four years ago aged 47, and is committed to raising awareness and improving understanding of the disease, speaking recently on the subject on BBC Tees on World Parkinson‟s Day. Organiser Jules France, also from Saltburn, originally pulled the team together, and has been the powerhouse behind the fundraising drive ever since. Jules said: “We created the team in support of our darling Jo. Despite having Parkinson‟s, she continues to be a ray of sunshine in our lives. She‟s unbelievably positive and kind and she is determined to raise the profile of Parkinson‟s. Her condition is managed with a variety of wonder drugs, but this won‟t always be the case. So I wanted to get a team together to support the campaign and

raise money to help fund the charity‟s research. Since then, we have pounded the night streets after work, scampered up rainy hills and jogged on treadmills, all wanting to do something positive to make a difference to support our friend. Some friends and relatives have said how great it‟s been to really shine a light on a silent condition that people often shy away from talking about.”

There‟s still time to sponsor Yaldren‟s Heroes by visiting https://time-to-run-50.everydayhero.com/uk/yaldrens-heroes. To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson‟s UK visit www.parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising.

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