Talk of the Town December 2018

EDITION 210

CIRCULATION 4,600

DECEMBER 2018

SALTBURN’S FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE 1

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SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK Letter from the Editor

Merry Christmas everyone! When I were a lad I had a paper free publicity on its pages for community groups. To be able to round for quite a few years, delivering newspapers thirteen afford to do that it needs all the financial help it can get. times a week. I remember December was a good month to be I‘ve set a normal deadline date for January‘s magazine a paper boy, because residents would open their front doors rather than an especially early one, but completion of the job and give me what they called ‗my Christmas box‘, which was will still be urgent. It must go to the printers as soon as always money, but it was a reward to say thank you for possible if it is to be out on time, because of Christmas delivering their papers all year round. It was ‗giving me holidays, so please could contributors and advertisers get their something back‘. If Saltburn residents want to give articles etc sent to me as early as they can? Love, Ian something back for receiving their magazine all year, then Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by please buy a calendar from Jackie‘s Saverstore or put a Friday, 14th December 2018) to: The Editor, Talk of the donation in the collection box. Talk of the Town needs a little Town c/o Jackie‘s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, extra to survive in these hard times. When advertisers support Cleveland, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 623903 (or email: the magazine they are also supporting the wider community talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com). of Saltburn because Talk of the Town gives away so much Talk of the Town can be found on a new Facebook Saltburn Farmers’ Market: Christmas shopping and festive address at www.facebook.com/talkofthetownsaltburn. cheer all available at Saltburn Farmers‘ Market on Saturday, Saltburn Learning Campus Christmas Fair: come along to 8th December. You will find traditional and modern foods this hugely popular Christmas Fair from 4.30pm till 6.30pm on and inspirational gifts so eat, drink, be merry and add a touch Friday, 7th December. Visit Santa in his grotto, enjoy the of luxury to your Christmas this year! Buy local: it‘s miles Christmas Market, student stalls, a performance of Christmas better and don‘t forget the early bird gets the best worm! favourites from the school choir, raffle, tombola, children‘s Sainsbury’s Tree of Remembrance: Tags are available at activities, refreshments (and maybe even a cup of mulled wine). the Customer Services desk, 50p each. Proceeds to All in aid of the PTFA who are raising funds to support the Sainsbury‘s charity of the year. students. See also page 41.

Saltburn Charity Crafters will be holding their monthly Corbyn visit: Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn visited Saltburn meeting on Wednesday, 5th December from 2 to 4 pm in the on Saturday, 10th November to endorse his new parliamentary coffee room at Saltburn Community Hall.

Everyone candidate Lauren Dingsdale. They added flowers at the Marine welcome.

Parade bench dedicated to former MP Ashok Kumar and Craft Club Busy Fingers: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each enjoyed a fish-and-chip press photocall on the pier. month, 1.30 till 3.30pm in the Coffee Room, Saltburn Saltburn Studios and Gallery: We‘ve got Open Studios on Community Centre.

Christmas Tree Festival: Following on from last year‘s Saturday, 8th December with mince pies and mulled wine. successful event, Saltburn WI are getting ready to hold Everyone Welcome. Our current Exhibition features artwork another Christmas Tree Festival in Emmanuel Church from all our 17 Studio Artists. There are lots of fantastic ideas between 1st and 8th December. All you need is to supply for unusual handcrafted Christmas presents. Our Gallery opens your own tree and decorate it with a theme of your choice. If every weekend, 12-4pm. your organisation, group, business or family would like to be WI Report: The ladies of Saltburn WI had a very busy start to November. For months we had been busy making poppies for a involved please get in touch (at saltburnwi@outlook.com).

Emmanuel Church Hall Table Top and Collectors’ Sale: display outside Emmanuel Church. By the first of the month we We will be back on 1st and 15th December and then starting had over 2500 but they all had to be attached to netting. For a back on January 19th 2019 then back as normal in February day and a half a team of volunteers sat round a table in the 2nd and 16th. We wish everyone a happy Christmas and new church hall, attaching each poppy to what at first seemed a year and we are looking forward to seeing you all next year never ending roll of garden net. By mid day Saturday the task and thank you all for your support. We have 3 rooms packed was completed and we were ready to hang our wave of poppies. full of lots of Christmas things and our usual stalls. We are We hope everyone who has seen it, has enjoyed our tribute to also taking orders for our usual Christmas cakes and mince all those who lost their lives between 1914 and 1918 and in pies etc. If anyone is interested in booking a stall to have a conflicts all over the world since then. At our November clear out contact me on the number below. We are also doing meeting we had an interesting talk from Sharon Owen from In our usual lunches and all day breakfast, fresh home baked harmony Food Revolution. Sharon is passionate about avoiding cake, pies and scones. Home made refreshments and light food waste and spoke from the heart about how she is doing her lunches are on sale all day. FREE ENTRANCE and a warm part to address this issue. Later in the month we are looking welcome to everyone. With over 26 stall holders, selling lots forward to a visit to the RHS gardens at Harlow Carr to see of bric-a-brac, books, toys, baby goods, and all sorts of them floodlit. Full details of all our activities can be found on collectables, there is something for everyone. Contact Denise our website www.saltburnbytheseawi.wordpress.com or follow us on Facebook.

Marshall on 07929 589538.

Diane Falla

Cover Illustration: Tin Man in the snow by Heather Lofthouse

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, Unit 34a, Lidgate Crescent, Langthwaite Business Park, South Kirkby, West Yorkshire, WF9 3NR. 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 Remembrance Weekend

Above: Attendance at War Memorial Sunday

Friday, 9th November was the opening event of the weekend when Saltburn Learning Campus held a remembrance event which included planting the last three trees of 64 being planted in lasting memory of the 64 servicemen named on the War Memorial who gave their lives in WW1. The final trees were planted by Simon Clarke MP, Ruby Ramsay Head student Huntcliff School, Kian Jackson and Lydia Thompson-Jones, Head Boy and Girl at Saltburn Primary School. Displays and activities were held in the main corridor of the school. Events in the school hall were the highlight of the evening with poetry reading, drama, a power point presentation, WW1 Saltburn-bythe-Sea in photographs and hymns sung by Ruth Kirby.

Saturday, 10th November at 11.00am, The Saltburn Valleys CIO members interred a time capsule in front of the War Memorial in commemoration of 100 years of the end of WW1. The copper capsule fabricated by CIO vice chairman Bob Proctor was lowered into the ground by two students from Huntcliff School following a short service by the Methodist Church Minster and a one-minute silence. The contents of the capsule are:- The Green Howards and Durham Light Infantry cap badges, 5 one penny coins covering the period of the war, other coins from the same period, one pound coin dated 2018, nose cone from a WW1 shrapnel shell with full details of its construction, shrapnel pieces found at Passchendaele, WW1 short Le Enfield oil bottle dug up on a battlefield, ―Book of Names‖ by Ian Bedford, 2 embroidered silk postcards sent from France, ―First World War an illustrated history‖ published by Britain at War magazine, 4 photographs of the original dedication ceremony of the War Memorial, 2 inert bullets as used during the war, information and photograph of Lawrence Garbutt, son of the tenant farmer of the land where Saltburn-by-the-Sea was built, information and photograph of Wilfred Littleboy whose father donated a large sum of money

to enable the procurement and erection of the War Memorial and also lists of names and information of many people living in Saltburn and the locality at the present time.

Many thanks to those who donated items for the time capsule.

Sunday, 11th November a service of remembrance was held in Emmanuel Church followed by a service at the War Memorial. The attendance at the War Memorial was the largest we have ever witnessed.

Left: Capsule and War Memorial Below: Internment of Capsule by Bowen Krause and Jamie Cuthbert

Cath and Tony Lynn

Saltburn Photographic Society Wednesday, 5th December John Devlin and Mike Berry present ―An Engaging Evening‖.

Wednesday, 12th December Studio Tristan and Les Gould competition results.

Wednesday, 19th December A quiz presented by a Trio of members, free tea, coffee and mince pies.

A selection of members‘ work is on display in Saltburn Library; this is changed every other month.

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The next practical night is December 17th Members critique night. Note this meeting starts at 7.00pm.

Meetings are held in the upstairs hall, Saltburn Milton Street Methodist Church TS12 1EB at 7.30pm. Visitors are welcome to any of our meetings; there will be a small charge.

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

Same chef and owner for over 6 years

CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS FROM

SALTBURN METHODIST CHURCH

Looking for that special gift and card?

Choose from our vast range of products incl: Woodwick scented candles, Jellycat soft toys, Thomas Kent clocks, Arran Aromatics toiletries, Emma Bridgewater & Cath Kidston pottery & much more.

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 1st Sat. Library 11am-12 Noon Cllr. Craig Hannaway 2nd Sat. Library 10am-12 Noon Cllr. Philip Thomson 3rd Sat. Outside Sainsbury‘s Cllr. Stuart Smith 9.30-10.30 and 11.30-12.15 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 cHRISTMAS Services SUNDAY 16th December 10.45am Sunday School Toy Service and ‘NATIVITY’ 6.00pm Rev H Harbottle Carol Service SUNDAY 23rd December 10.45am Mrs T Hobday 6.00pm Rev J Henry CHRISTMAS EVE 11.15pm Communion - Rev B Bell CHRISTMAS DAY 10.00am Worship with Rev K Martin SUNDAY 30th December 10.45am Rev H Harbottle

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Once Upon a Time in the Wapentake A different Christmas This year there may be snow, something we have heard about in history lessons and have seen in ancient films, but have never known for real; it‘s another sign that the world may be cooling down at last. But, whatever the weather, we will spend the day as we always do. We will assemble on the Lower Promenade (there are rather fewer of us now, and the promenade is not quite so low as it once was, we think). There we will rejoice at the turning of the year, the triumph of light over dark. Some think of this as the birth of a miraculous child, but in a world where so few children are born, every one seems like a miracle, at least to some of us. But on this day we are celebrating what we have in common, not what might divide us.

After riding up into town on the old Cliff Lift, a shorter journey than in the old days, we can think about dinner. Some of us non-vegetarians will have a joint of pork on the table, pork from the black pigs that feast on the acorns and sweet chestnuts in the forests all around. Meat is a rare, a special, treat, as is the wild sea trout from the beck that some prefer, but this is a special day. Some of what will go with it will be things we have grown ourselves.

Those who cannot garden will not go without; when there is more fruit and veg than we can eat (this year we have a glut of apples) we share. Then there is the Makers Market in early December: fine wine from Upleatham, and olive oil pressed by the Carlin How Growers Cooperative. There are things we cannot produce locally; a month ago a big, fourmasted Clipper sailed into Port Cleveland bringing spices and exotic fruit from the Indies; other goods are brought by smaller ships, schooners and gulyets, anchoring in the little harbour below Cat Nab. On the Makers Market, as well as foodstuffs, we can get stationery and wrapping paper from the Skelton Paper Mill. Cards and presents are an important part of the celebrations, but we are very careful not to overdo it. We know, but find it hard to believe, that there was a time when it was normal to show how much you cared by how much you spent on unnecessary and unwanted presents. We prefer to show our feelings by finding or making something that we know will be loved, and our town, at least, has had a tradition going back to the old days of writing love songs and making useful, beautiful things from driftwood and recycled glass.

The mania for accumulating things must have been one of the reasons things went so wrong in the past. We suppose that, because people who had been hungry and cold were naturally happier when they got food and warm clothes and a place to live, they made the mistake of

thinking that, if they had twice as much to eat, and twice as many winter coats and two houses instead of just one, they would be twice as happy. People were encouraged to think like that, to consume more of everything, and to produce more of everything, including more pollution, and more greenhouse gas. They called it ‗Growth‘. Now we only do enough work to make the things we really need, and have a lot more time for really living.

One of the oddest things we think about the old days was the way things from outside the town were delivered. A heavily polluting diesel van would come from miles away to deliver one parcel at one house, and then go away. Now, everything that we can‘t make ourselves and which doesn‘t come in by ship, comes in by rail. In the middle of December the Midnight Special comes into the station and unloads crates and cases, boxes and bags for delivery to markets, shops and homes.

Especially at this time of the year, we are not cut off from the rest of the world. We have friends everywhere, now that the World Wide Web is no longer a maelstrom of hatred and advertising controlled by a handful of over-powerful people, it now does what it was meant to do: bring us together, and help us to work together. There is so much we can do on our own, but so much that we can‘t. Locally we work together with nearby towns and villages to run the trams that connect us. Over the wider region we work together on the Tees Estuary Tidal Barrage that provides the power for our trams and trains, and for the electric arc furnaces that are melting down the mountain of scrap that the old world has left us. But there are some things that can only be done by everyone on the planet working together, the seemingly endless job of cleaning up the oceans for example. The WWW is essential for things like that.

Although the age of competing, often warring, nations is over, the United Kingdom is still remembered, in the way that the County of Cleveland and the Kingdoms of Kent and of York are remembered (and the Duke of Normandy, and the King of Navarre, the Elector of Hanover and the Holy Roman Emperor). One curious relic of the UK‘s existence still survives. It is a broadcast made by Albert George Windsor, known to some as King George the Eighth. That he never seems to get any older, and the speech seems almost identical to the one made last year and the year before is something that only a cynic would complain about. Every year must seem to be the same; it‘s a tradition and it wouldn‘t be the same without it.

Another such tradition is that, just now, at the beginning of December, the Special Festive Edition of Talk of the Town will land on every Saltburn doorstep. Whatever the weather.

Tim Beswick

Christmas Shopping at Evolve in the Earthbeat Centre Fairtrade clothes and gifts.

Eco friendly cork goods, including bags, belts and jewellery.

Rugs and throws, cards, toiletries, essential oils and much more.

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Real Meals Purveyors of Fine Foods

Make a friend very happy this Christmas with a bespoke hamper created at Real Meals, Delicious foods beautifully presented in a range of packaging from Gift Bags to Traditional Baskets. Collect in the shop or let us post it out for you.

Granny and Granddad Baskets, Chili Lovers Hamper, Chocolate Lovers, Ginger Spice, Vegan, Gluten Free, Italian, Yorkshire - all at £15, £25, £35 and £60 Cheese Boards with nuts and fruit - £30 for 6 people, Cheese only £22.

REAL MEALS, 25 MILTON STREET, SALTBURN, Tel: 01287 622266.

New email address: realmeals.uk@gmail.com

New Website: www.real-meals.co.uk

Councillors’ Column Who has Advent calendars any more? Those fortunate enough will know the first Sunday started on December the 2nd. Although little doors standing open may no longer have a chocolate in them perhaps there is a prayer waiting to be said.

Unfortunately as the path towards Christmas is followed there may be many doors that remain closed and that path may be winding and lonely for some.

As a town that prides itself on community activity and involvement this is a good opportunity to reach out even further and embrace all fellows, those who have plenty and those who have less than plenty, or those who have little at all.

Social care services will be stretched as holiday entitlement is factored in, quite rightly so, to address the demand of home care that continues ever to increase.

As health policies require better turn over in bed occupancy and a quicker return home for those who are well enough to do so, a care package is a prerequisite in that protocol, but particularly in the absence of any extended family support.

As private health companies and care homes question their sustainability, health care costs continue to be a matter for national and local discussion. As labour costs continue to rise and the vacancy rate among health workers continues to be an issue, how can this be resolved? There is a shortage of GPs, of nurses, of radiographers, of opticians, of care workers and so the list continues.

Somewhere in all of this mosaic there needs to be an

updating of systems, the better use of technology and the overdue introduction of artificial intelligence. There is a debate taking place but it is fragmented, rather like the division of responsibility for health care.

Let us ask more searching questions of decision makers and seek to support innovation and more training and retraining.

And when all that is up and running what more can we do ourselves?

Volunteering often falls upon the few. If an open door indeed welcomes in then more may cross that threshold.

Universal Credit is being rolled out this month for new claimants and progressively there will be a transition to move over existing benefit claimants into the new system. This will not be without some difficulties and there remain ongoing debates about some of the principles contained in the formulae. Notwithstanding these deliberations, The Department of Work and Pensions and Redcar & Cleveland Council will have officers at work during some of the traditional holiday period as well as on line support to offer assistance where it can be given.

Despite any adversity, let us all be attending carol services, sharing with young and old a time of remembrance and celebration and raising of rafters with well filled cheer.

By the time of the opening of the last Advent door we may be well rehearsed in Luke and may even have revisited Thessalonians, hopefully having not forgotten Philippians.

Perhaps that door could remain open a little longer.

Philip Thomson 7

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For a friendly efficient service on all legal matters Tel:

01287 623049

Saltburn Athletic FC Christmas is only round the corner but meanwhile the teams of Saltburn play on and will do so until the 16th December when they play their last game before the winter break and resume on the 6th January 2019.

The U8s continue to improve and realize it‘s harder than they thought in their first season but I am sure they are going to do well in the near future.

The U10s team continue to win and a latest high scoring game ensured their dominance of the division they play in.

The U11s Sharks continued their winning ways and have now won five and lost one game in their division. Some excellent performances suggest that they will be fighting for top spot at the end of the season but it‘s a long way to go yet so let‘s not get carried away.

The U11s Seahawks in their first season may not be winning as many games as they would like but keep battling away and I am sure a couple of good wins are not far away.

The under 12s yet again are doing well and are lying second in their division with good wins against Greatham by 3-0, Bedale 2-0, Normanby 3-0 and Hartlepool Saxons 3-2. Keep going lads and hopefully another promotion up the league system.

The under 14s Dolphins are finding the rise to division two is providing much stiffer opposition though with recent wins in the league including a recent 3-1 victory over TIBS; they have three wins and two defeats in the league.

The under 14s Falcons are struggling a little but certainly won‘t give up and a couple of wins will certainly help them a lot so hopefully that‘s just around the corner.

The under 15s continue to impress with a win of 31 versus Wynyard, a draw 3-3 versus Hardwick and another win against Gt Ayton 2-1 means they have a record of 5 wins and two draws which means they are top of their division.

They are also on a good cup run recently beating Darlington RA 7-2.

Happy Xmas to you all.

Andy Croll 8

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 December for babies and newcomers to the town

Christina Simpson Bespoke Furniture, Joinery Fully Qualified, Experienced, Local Carpenter/Joiner 1st, 2nd Fix Doors, Flooring, Skirting, Loft Conversions Hand-Made Kitchens/Bedrooms, Painted Furniture Paintings Commissioned

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Call 07773 091727 or 07387 766779 Email: simpsonc999@gmail.com

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Friends of Saltburn Library Friends are starting their Christmas decorations on Wednesday, 5th December this year at 2.00pm with tea, coffee and mince pies. As usual, we shall have our welcome friends, Liz and Steve, entertaining us with their Christmas songs and carols.

At the same time, there will also be our annual Christmas Tombola full of new and exciting gifts.

As last year‘s batch of Christmas cakes were such a sell-out, we are repeating them once more. They will also be on sale on the 5th December. If you wish to order and reserve one please ring 623295 (Pauline Davies) who bakes them to your required size, priced accordingly.

Don‘t miss out on any of these events. Be prepared to start your Christmas celebrations with the Friends of Saltburn Library!

Saltburn Library News There are still ―limited‖ places for the Frozen-themed Santa‘s Grotto event running over two days on 12 & 13th December between 15:00 – 16:40. Tickets are issued by library staff on a first-come-first-served basis, so please come in to book a slot. This is a free event.

There will also be some ―Drop-in‖ Under 5s Christmas Craft sessions running on Wednesdays 5th & 19th between 10:30 – 11.00.

Saltburn Library has joined the now nationally recognised CHATTER NATTER SCHEME. Please ask at the library for further details (or visit www.thechattycafescheme.co.uk).

Just a reminder that the Library will be closing on Monday, 24th December 2018 at 12:30 and re-opening to the public at 10:00 on Wednesday, 2nd January 2019.

Barbara P. Chaffer

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.

December programme 7th Taylor‘s seated keep-fit to music followed with Bingo. The afternoon session is making Christmas cards.

14th Christmas Quiz and games morning. Christmas party from 1pm. Everybody welcome! This is the last Friday Friends of 2018, but we will open again on January 4th.

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).

We are supported by Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council, Lloyds Bank Foundation and Tees valley Community Foundation.

Keith Bowers, chairperson 10

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 _________________________________

The time to let go comes to every parent. It can be painful, costly.

God knows: “When the right time finally came, God sent his own Son. He came as the son of a human mother…” (The Bible: Paul’s letter to the Galatians) On a September morning more than 150 years ago missionary James Hudson Taylor said farewell to his mother for the last time. As his ship steamed out of Liverpool, bound for China, he looked back at the sad figure on the quayside. Years later he wrote that it was at that moment that he first felt the full impact of Jesus’ words: “God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son…” (The Bible: John’s Gospel) It’s stunning. To be loved that much. At such cost. If it’s true the implications are challenging. Life-changing. “Good news… great joy… for everyone!” was the song in the skies above Bethlehem on the night Christ was born. No wonder!

Two thousand years have rolled by, and people have found their own ways of coping with that costly gift of God to a broken world.

Jesus might appear less challenging if we try to keep Him as a little baby, or use His entry into the world as a trigger for binge consumerism.

But the nagging thought remains. God let go of His only child so that everyone could receive good news with great joy. We welcome you to our celebrations at 10.30am on Sunday 23rd December, and 10.30am on Christmas Day. Check out the “Good News” page on our website … and have a very Happy Christmas!

Saltburn 500 Club Congratulations go to L Conroy for winning the £100 first prize in the 500 Club draw. Have you considered buying membership as a Christmas present for somebody? After all, it‘s only £12 for a year‘s membership and represents good value!

After leaflet drops around the town, we have managed to lift the membership to 405. This is good news as it generates monies for projects around the town.

Committee are looking for volunteers who would like to join the committee and provide the continuation that the 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn require. I think it‘s fair to point out that, if the 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn should cease through there being no committee, the town would run the risk of losing the Christmas lights and Summer Band performances. These are just two examples of the type of events we support. Please contact me if you would like to get involved with committee work.

By the time you read this article, we will have had the lighting-up parade and we are always looking for new ideas of what the people in town would like in future years. Please let us know your views as none of us have mind-reading powers.

I am already starting to plan dates for next year‘s fund-raising events etc. The first event I need to organise is taking down the Christmas lights - we always aim to do this as near to 12th night as possible. Work has already started on the 2019 schedule for band performances at the bandstand and dates are nearly firmed up for my four fundraisers in the Community Centre. We are always looking for volunteers who can help out in the kitchen or bake food for us to sell - feel free to join us if you can help.

As there is not a lot to report this month, I would like to finish by wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a wish that the New Year brings you all you would wish for.

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

Saltburn Station Gallery Saltburn Station Gallery would like to thank all of our customers who have supported the gallery and its local artists and artisans over the year.

We would also like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and happy new year. We are looking forward to the festive season for we are once again holding late night opening events on Thursday evenings on the run up to Christmas staying open till 7pm. Look out for discount offers and festive treats on these evenings.

There will be many other businesses within the town joining in on these late night shopping events. Shop local and support your local businesses.

In the run up to Christmas we will continue to support Children with Cancer UK by having a festive lucky dip so please come on in and have a go. Also look out for the next Talk of the Town issue where we will announce the amount we have made for the charity in 2018.

The latest Artist Lee Rotherforth, to join us at the gallery is commissioning fantastic portraits and pet portraits, and is also now offering tutorial/lessons on portraiture.

Please contact the gallery for more information or call in.

Please note Winter Opening for January and February will change and we will be closed Wednesdays and Sundays.

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 Last month I mentioned how well we‘d all done in the Northumbria in Bloom competition this year. Towards the end of October, too late to put into November‘s column, we had a celebration event to thank everyone for their hard work and give out awards. We thought you‘d like to see a photo.

One-to-One Reading Coaching for Primary children.

This is committee members and gardeners with Chair of Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council, Councillor Vera Ryder (thanks Tony Lynn who was our official photographer). Councillor Ryder said a few words of thanks and, in particular, praised volunteers for the work they achieve with Saltburn in Bloom and with other groups throughout the parish. She is holding the glass ―Best Coastal Resort‖ trophy which is now in the library with most of the other certificates which she presented to the winners.

Last year‘s very successful Christmas tree exhibition is being run again in Emmanuel Church, organised by our WI. We will be putting up a tree, along with many other groups, I expect. It was a lovely exhibition last year and hopefully will be even better this time. There are rumours that this is the last of the Christmas trees for some time and that the WI has plans for a new theme next year. The exhibition will run between 1st and 8th December and will be open each day from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Do come and see all the trees and make your own decisions about the ones you like best.

Our gardening stalwarts are still going strong. They meet each week on Wednesday mornings, weather permitting, and like to have the opportunity to chat to passers by. They‘d be thrilled if a few extra people were prepared to lend a hand. No need to be a gardener as there are plenty of people in the group who know what‘s what. They‘ll tell you (nicely) what needs doing and show you how to do it. It could be the start of your new gardening life. There‘s coffee, tea, biscuits and chat too. New Year‘s resolution?

Have a great Christmas, Sue

Redcar Catholic Church cordially invites you to our Christmas Fayre!

When: Saturday 8th December. Where: Redcar Literary Institute, Lord Street, Redcar, TS10 3EN. Time: 10am-2pm.

Stalls include: books, bric-a-brac, jewellery, cards, Christmas stall, adopt-a-teddy, cakes, tombola, refreshments, and a raffle. Plus an exclusive stall by ‗The Body Shop‘.

Father Christmas will also be visiting! Everyone welcome! For further event details please follow us on twitter @RedcarParish (and like us on facebook.com/ RedcarParishBuildingProject).

12

Read 20 years of primary teaching experience Coaching targeted to the specific needs Enjoy of the child.

Saltburn-based.

And Reasonable rates.

Discover For further information: 01287 624014 email: readenjoydiscover@zoho.eu Website: readenjoyanddiscover.com

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.

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

Structural & Civil Engineering

Also, Joinery Work Undertaken

Call Liz on: 01287 203571 Mobile: 07834 022289

Structural Surveys, Beam Designs, Building Restoration Foundation & Underpinning Design General Building Works Professional and Friendly Service Structural and Civil Engineering contact: Gregory Sills BEng (Hons) CEng MIStructE FGS

t: 01287 624644 m: 07960 967865 Architectural Services contact: Martin Ledger BA (Hons) PgDip Arch

m: 07870 631415

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

www.scurator.co.uk info@scurator.co.uk www.beamdesignservice.co.uk 13

Cheveux Hair Salon Cheveux Hair Salon would like to wish all of our very loyal customers a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. Also a big Thank You for everyone’s continued support. We look forward to seeing you all in the future.

Missing Cat Missing since 22nd October from around Ox Close Cottages, Saltburn, 6 year old Kelele is tabby, male (neutered) very friendly and is chipped. We are hoping he has moved in with someone as there have been no sightings, good or bad. If found, or any news at all, please call 01287 622540 immediately, no questions asked, we would just like him back.

Reward available.

Thank You. 14

Christmas Tree Exhibition Saltburn WI are holding their 2nd Christmas tree exhibition in Emmanuel Church. The church will be open on December 1st and from December 3rd to 8th from 10am until 4pm each day. Please come along and support us and enjoy the display of trees.

Nigel’s VIPs! BESPOKE PETCARE DOG WALKING, CAT CARE, GENERAL PETCARE & RESIDENTIAL PET-SITTING

PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE PETCARE SINCE 2002

TEL: 07891 092007 www.facebook.com/NigelsVIPs Excellent References

Saltburn, Brotton, Marske, New Marske, Redcar, Guisborough and surrounding areas.

15

Saltburn Beer Festival 2018 Over 700 people enjoyed another very successful Beer Festival on 16th and 17th November, many travelling from different parts of the country and staying for the weekend to enjoy all that the town has to offer. There were many enthusiastic comments about the friendly atmosphere in the venue and the selection and quality of the 37 beers available. Customers over the 2 days drank 87% of the beer on offer and at the end of the festival there were still 20 different beers for them to choose from.

The Town Crier and the Mayor, Dennis Teesdale and his wife opened the festival. Tony Smith, Chair of SCAA, thanked the volunteers for giving their time to organise and run the festival. The proceeds of last year‘s festival enabled them to give the toilets a much needed refurbishment.

This event could not happen without the support and generosity of local businesses, many of whom have been sponsors every year. Real Meals, The Guns Bar, GR Henderson Architects, Brew Build, Saltburn Cons Club, AP Maintenance, Saltburn Blues Club, Seaview Restaurant, Cygnet Law, Saltburn Rotary Club, John Walton Decorators, Lune Street Club, Saltburn Cricket Club, PMD Agricultural Services, Tees Safety Solutions, Golden Smog, Stockton, and Rita‘s Pantry, Redcar, as well as local individuals.

Thanks also to The Spar in Milton Street for selling tickets and Ian for publicity in Talk of the Town.

Next year‘s festival will be on 15th and 16th November, so put the dates in your diary.

SALTBURN BLUES CLUB It‘s back to a one gig month this month after 2 superb November gigs. On Saturday, 22nd December we welcome to our Christmas gig The Starlight Campbell Band supported by Dr Blue.

Starlight Campbell Band are a British Blues group based on the Isle Of Man. Formed in 2016, the band is led by married couple Suzy Starlight and Simon Campbell. Their debut album, Blueberry Pie, was nominated for a European Blues Award in November 2017 and blends Blues and Americana. The duo had been recording, playing and touring independently in bands for many years until they met in 2012, when Starlight asked Campbell, who was a British Blues Award Nominee, to join her band as the guitar player. The love extended past each other‘s playing and the duo were wed in 2014 after a whirlwind romance, forming their new joint band, Starlight Campbell, in January 2016. They recently headlined the Wangaretta Festival of Jazz in Australia.

Supporting them on the night is Dr Blue singer songwriter, guitarist, harmonica player, poet and storyteller with his Blues Roots and Folk music. ‗A unique brand of early Blues, a raw voice, like Tom Waites.‘ (Blues In Britain 2017) Hope you can join us for our Christmas celebrations with a buffet provided.

Venue: Saltburn Cricket Club. Doors 7.30pm.

Tickets £12 available from Milo‘s Cafe Saltburn (prev.

Destinations), www.yorkshireticketshop.com, www.saltburnbluesclub.co.uk, the Cricket Club and 07960 935263.

Don‘t forget my Blues show Still Got The Blues on Zetland 105FM and online every Monday 7pm -10pm or catch it later on Mixcloud. Visit the website www.zetlandfm.co.uk and scroll down to the Mixcloud link. Three hours of the very best of the Blues.

Harry

Redcar’s Visual Presentations On Tuesday, 11th December in the Redcar East Community Centre on Durham Road at 2.15pm we are delighted to welcome back Cath and Tony Lynn who will be taking us on a nostalgic trip around the unlikely tourist spot of I.C.I. Wilton! Tony was employed there in the early days of its development and his presentation promises to give us an insight into the faces and places, without the sounds and aromas, he encountered during his years there.

This will be our last presentation before the Festive Season break. We shall return early in the New Year on Tuesday, 8th January when we welcome Jack Wood who will be presenting ‗My Art on My Sleeves‘.

Jack spent 15 years in the record business designing record covers and during that time he met many Stars of the Seventies resulting in many amusing incidents as they showed another side to their musical talent.

Admission at the door for each presentation is £2.50 and visitors are very welcome.

16

17

Looking Up?

by Alan Butler

Despite having ancestral and personal attachments to Saltburn, Kate and I live in Redcar these days as we have done now for a number of years. We had thought the events of the last twelve months might have led to slightly diminished Christmas displays in the town because a number of shops have closed across the last year and the ones that were already vacant have begun to look like somewhat permanent fixtures. What we had not done for a while was to walk down the streets adjacent to Station Road and when we did so, what a surprise was in store for us. Like a small seed resting in the ground Redcar is beginning to stir and flex. Commercially it is still a far cry from the situation in Saltburn but all progress is a boon.

Redcar is slowly developing a different ethos.

Almost all the new shops around Station Road are cocktail bars, micro brewery mini pubs or restaurants of one sort or another. Those running the new establishments are delighted with the way business is going and the whole area looks more vibrant and certainly more cheerful.

Meanwhile there are still problems on and close to the High Street. The gap left by Marks and Spencer‘s is still there, like a missing tooth spoiling what was once a commercial smile and shop units along Regent Walk have fallen by the wayside since last Christmas. Nevertheless even in this shopping centre there are signs of a recovery, not least in terms of what looks like becoming a battle of the coffee cups.

A café on Regent Walk where Kate and I tend to go on most days when we are in Redcar is the local representative of a large company that is seen in almost every large town and city these days. Some months ago an empty unit across the cobbled street was taken by a shop from an equally large enterprise, this one selling bread, pies and sandwiches, as well as tea and coffee to take out. We were surprised to see that although this particular very famous brand shop had only been open a few months it was soon closed again – not to disappear altogether but rather to sleep for a couple of months and then re-emerge twice as big as it was before and now sporting a sizeable sit down café, as well as a large alfresco seating area on the cobbles.

The manager of the café where we often go was not best pleased by this turn of events and for a while the situation was tense. We wondered if it would eventually come to a battle across the street, with croissants and panna cotta being hurled from one side and sausage rolls and meat pies being thrown back in return. In reality the result of the turf war has been a greater footfall and more being sold in both establishments.

I personally have little doubt that Saltburn has a great part to play in Redcar‘s stirring. Like an island in an otherwise recently uninspiring sea the little town of Saltburn has flourished and prospered. It stands high on the list of favoured places to live in England and is one of very few such examples in our part of the country. If Saltburn is able to pass on some of its success to its nearby neighbour then so much the better.

Happy Christmas Saltburn and let‘s hope the year to come sees a little less excitement and a higher degree of stability.

18

Churches Together in Saltburn invite you to join them in their Christmas Worship

Sunday 9th December 2018 3.00 pm

Christingle Service Parish Church In aid of The Children’s Society

Sunday 16th December 2018 9.00 am 10.30 am 10.45 am 10.45 am 6.00 pm

Holy Communion Mass Family Worship Nativity & Toy Service Candlelit Carol Service (United Service)

Parish Church Catholic Church Parish Church Methodist Church Methodist Church

Sunday 23rd December 2018 9.00 am 10.30 am 10.45 am 10.45 am

Holy Communion Mass All Engage Service Morning Worship

Parish Church Catholic Church Parish Church Hall Methodist Church

Christmas Eve: Monday 24th December 2018 5.00 pm 6.30 pm 7.00 pm 11.15 pm 11.30 pm

Crib Service Carols for Christmas First Mass of Christmas Communion Service Midnight Communion

Parish Church Catholic Church Catholic Church Methodist Church Parish Church

Christmas Day: Tuesday 25th December 2018 10.00 am 10.00 am 10.30 am

Christmas Communion Service Parish Church Christmas Worship Methodist Church Family Mass Catholic Church

Church Locations and Contacts Parish Church of Emmanuel

Windsor Road

01287 622007

Parish Church Office

Upleatham Street 01287 622251

Methodist Church

Milton Street

01287 651340

Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church

Milton Street

01287 623619

Christmas Message

In our churches and schools, nativity plays will remind children, parents and teachers that it was a star that guided the wise men or Magi to the Christ-child in Bethlehem.

At our carol services we will sing ‗We three kings of Orient are‘ concluding each verse with the chorus... ‗O Star of wonder, star of night Star with royal beauty bright Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to thy Perfect Light‘ There have been many attempts to explain the star, from the natural to the supernatural.

There is good astronomical evidence for the importance of a triple conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in 7BC, and, ‗The manner in which Matthew‘s Gospel describes the movement of the star is compatible with how contemporaries could have described either of these planets at that time.‘ (First Days of Jesus, pp.68).

However, it is not helpful to get so lost in finding a natural explanation that we lose sight of the supernatural or miraculous. It is perfectly possible for God to have sent an angel to guide the wise men in a way that appeared to them as a moving star.

But the star can become a distraction from the real focus of the story. The star is only a guide, or a pointer, to the real Star, the true Guide: Jesus! Once the wise men arrived in Bethlehem, the star in the sky had accomplished its purpose. They were now before the ‗Perfect Light‘, God in the flesh. They offered gifts to Jesus, and they worshipped him. As they travelled back home we know nothing more for certain of their personal story.

However, I would like to think that the God who led them by a star to visit and worship his Son, continued to guide them. And that, in time, they came to know that Jesus gave up his life on the cross as a sacrifice for their sin.

Therefore, may the experience of the wise men encourage you to follow the Star this Christmastime.

Adam 19

Cleveland Diving Club

Seasonal festivities will be well underway by now with the expectation of traditional fayre, celebrations, merrymaking and friendly fun. Although scuba diving is a very disciplined pastime having ‗fun,‘ is also an essential part of the experience. To this end when a much anticipated trip to the Farne Islands was cancelled at the 11th hour, some of our members headed off under heavy, grey, rain-leaden, skies to a popular inland dive site, in the search of a little ‗fun.‘ Capenwray opened in 1995 after the transformation of the disused Jackdaw Quarry in Carnforth, Lancashire and on arrival spirits were soon lifted when welcomed with warm autumn sunshine. The beauty of Capenwray is the guarantee of diveable conditions and over twenty-four underwater features that accommodates a range of divers‘ interests and passions, to explore. This particular day‘s focus was underwater photography and our eager shutterbugs soon took to the water to take advantage of 10 to 15m visibility and balmy water temperatures of 13 degrees. The first feature explored was the elusive ‗Gnome Garden,‘ being an interesting selection of dubious looking garden gnomes (photo 1). Fun was also had playing hide and seek around the wrecked helicopter ‗Helo 2,‘ (photo 2) along with riding ‗Shergar‘ (photo 3).

The pièces de résistance are of course the mindblowing encounters of a close kind with the resident fish; being fresh water perch, brown trout and sturgeon. Some of which were more interested in the diver‘s camera than scavenging through the rocks (photo 4).

Once bitten by the diving bug ‗fun,‘ can be had by all and Cleveland Divers are pleased to welcome six new enthusiastic members keen to learn their skills and enjoy the underwater ambiance.

On a different note, a correction to last month‘s article is required in respect of the successful completion of a 40m dive whilst on holiday in Croatia, which read ‗… well done Derek, John, Clive, Mally and June‘ but this should have read ‗…well done Derek, Ian, Clive, Mally and June.‘ If you want to find out what it feels like to have some underwater ‗fun‘ by learning how to scuba dive or want to make new friends to have ‗fun‘ with then contact us via our Facebook page ‗The Diving Club-Cleveland,‘ or on 07960 608529.

June Coomber

4 People Not Profit Christmas Party 4 People Not Profit return this Christmas season for another very special Christmas party. This year we have the simple aim of collecting lots of warm winter clothing to distribute to local homeless charities.

This event will be on Saturday.15th December from 7.30pm till late at the Marine in Saltburn. As ever the event will be free but we request that if you have any warm clothes you can donate, to bring them down to the event and we will ensure they get to homeless charities who will oversee the distribution to those on the streets.

Headlining the gig will be the phenomenal aural delights of Saltburn‘s own Independent State of Mind.

Acoustic revolutionary instruMENTALS didgeridoo and guitar combo guaranteed to blow your mind and get your 20

feet moving! In support will be Teesside‘s Manfrog psychedelic prog rock of the finest order and Charlotte Grayson delivering beautiful heartfelt songs with a simply outstanding voice! As ever will be resident DJ/VJ Jonny Da Pigg wrapping the night up with some bouncy breaks and drum n bass and providing visuals all night.

With rough sleepers increasing under the harsh economic policies promoted by the current government more people are finding themselves homeless and will be sleeping on the street through this winter. In the spirit of togetherness and holding out that hand this Christmas we would love it if you fine folks can help donate as much warm clothes as you can. And don‘t forget those dancing shoes—you are going to need them!

21

1978

2018

40th CHRISTMAS CONCERT REUNION

SATURDAY 29th DECEMBER UNITED REFORMED CHURCH REDCAR

6.30 p.m.

Admission £5 Concessions £4 U16 £2 RAFFLE

REFRESHMENTS

Proceeds to:-

The Friends of Redcar Cemetery

Victorian Week Geraldine put Saltburn on the map Geraldine Jordan, who has died aged 66, ‗put Saltburn on the map‘ through helping to launch a Victorian week in the 1980s, said a vicar at her funeral on 23rd October.

Mrs Jordan, whose son spoke a warm tribute at her funeral at Emmanuel Church, Saltburn, was thanked by Saltburn-based retired vicar the Rev Matthew Holland, for her pioneering work.

He recalled that the week lifted the economy of Saltburn from a low ebb. She also helped to found the Saltburn Victorian Society, whose members dressed up for the Week.

Mrs Jordan‘s son Daniel won applause from the congregation, for his tribute, which included hoping that Heaven would be ‗five star‘ like all the local hotels his mother had managed with a firm hand.

These hotels included Rushpool Hall, the Tall Trees, Yarm, Marton Hotel and Country Club and Swallow at Stockton.

He recalled that many former employees would greet her at local cafes when she ventured out from her Saltburn town centre sick bed in recent years.

Geraldine Jordan suffered ill-health, particularly multiple sclerosis, all her life, but was invariably smiling.

She died peacefully with family by her side.

Mike Morrissey 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.

22

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council The Saltburn Christmas event will take place on Saturday, 1st December. There will be children‘s activities and entertainment during the afternoon at the Library. The Christmas tree lights will be switched on at 5pm. and then the local Fire Brigade will lead the parade bringing Father Christmas to his grotto which will be situated in the Station Portico. The theme this year is Disney and fancy dress is encouraged!

A big thank you to everyone who has taken part in the Christmas Craft competition. At the time of writing the winners, who will get to switch on the Christmas Tree lights, have not been selected, but hundreds of entries were received; further details next month.

Thanks are extended to everyone who helps with the event, which could not take place without the army of volunteers.

Saltburn WI have once again arranged a Christmas Tree Exhibition - to be held at Emmanuel Church, Saltburn. The event will run 10am - 4pm daily between 1st and 8th December. Go along and have a look at the

wonderful displays.

The annual Parish Council Carol Service will be held in St Thomas Church, New Marske on Tuesday, 18th December at 7pm. Marske Fishermen‘s Choir will be performing and Marske Junior Brass Band will be providing a musical interlude. This will be followed by light refreshments. As well as invited guests, members of the local community are invited to come along and the event is free.

Details about the proposed parking restrictions in Saltburn have still not been released by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council - we are advised that these will be out shortly.

On behalf of the Parish Council best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Tracy Meadows (Clerk and RFO to the Parish Council) 01287 623477 office@smnmpc.co.uk www.smnmpc.co.uk 23

News from Book Corner Christmas is here, and even though I‘ve been writing this column for six months, I‘ve realised I‘ve recommended very few books. So I thought I‘d take a break from talking about events and write my own ‗review of the year‘, focusing on some of my favourite books of 2018.

Hopefully, these books will also make great Christmas gifts! I‘ll try to do this roughly by genre. I‘ll also focus on commercial fiction.

First up: sci-fi and fantasy. At the start of the year, I read the wonderfully wintry The Toymakers by Robert Dinsdale. Set during, before and after the First World War, it‘s a story of sibling rivalry set in a magic toyshop. I would highly recommend it to fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.

In the summer, Becky Chambers published the third in her amazing Wayfarers series. Record of a Spaceborn Few tells the story of a community of people living aboard the Exodus Fleet, generations after the ships left Earth.

Chambers writes with great humanity, and explores some very big questions, but her writing is always accessible and her books are great fun.

Fallible Justice by Laura Laakso is a debut paranormal crime novel. This isn‘t my usual genre, but I was offered a proof by the publisher and I‘m so glad I gave it a go. Set in an alternate London inhabited by people with the magical ability to take on the characteristics of certain animals, it‘s both an excellent fantasy story and a very good mystery.

Next up, contemporary commercial fiction. The Unlikely Heroics of Sam Holloway by Rhys Thomas is both sad and heart-warming in equal measure. Sam is lonely. To combat his loneliness, he dresses as a superhero (‗The Phantasm‘) and roams his home town at night, performing good deeds and helping people in trouble.

When he meets Sarah, he has to decide if he‘s going to abandon his alter-ego and take a chance in the real world.

The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce was one of my favourite novels of 2017, and it‘s out now in paperback. A touching love story which shows the power of music to bring people together, it‘s also a celebration of community, and of independent shops!

I‘d also like to recommend Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, one of my bestselling books of the year. There‘s been so much written about it that I won‘t go into detail here. Just read it. You won‘t regret it.

Finally, I‘d like to recommend two wonderful Young Adult books. A Sky Painted Gold by Laura Wood is a fabulous 1920s romance set in Cornwall. Despite being set in the summer, it‘s a great book to curl up with on a cold winter‘s night. A lovely, escapist read, it‘s been recommended for fans of I Capture the Castle, and I would wholeheartedly agree.

Theatrical by Maggie Harcourt is a serious contender for my favourite book of the year. It follows a young stage management intern as she works backstage on a major production, and it reads like a love letter to the theatre.

Those are just some of my favourite books of 2018.

There are more I could write about, but for now I‘d like to wish all my customers a very happy Christmas!

Jenna 24

Saltburn’s Independent Bookshop Come and see our great range of Christmas Books!

Opening Times: 10am – 5pm (Closed Sundays)

Open for late night Christmas shopping every Thursday until 7pm 24 Milton Street, Saltburn, TS12 1DG

01287 348010 www.bookcornershop.co.uk

G . Bishop - Decorator

Christmas Carol Concert

*Interiors and Exteriors

*Free Estimates

*All Aspects of Decorating Undertaken *Realistic Prices

Time Served Telephone 01287 624016

*Reliable Service Assured

40 Years Experience Mobile 07757 912575

Sunday 9th December 2018 2-3pm Old Saints Church Skelton Mince Pies and drink Entrance Free (but there will be a bucket)

Parking in Castle Grounds, entrance via Church Lane

We sell a good selection of Stationery We sell a wide range of i.e.

Envelopes,and Labels, Tapes, Household Cleaning Mailing Bags, and a wide Products all at the bestrange priceof Cards we have possible,Greetings most of which Saltburn Christmas Cards now in!

sold for the past 18 years. Call in and see for yourself. If we don’t We now offer a Card Service on line have what you want, so weyou willcan do at giftsandbobs.co.uk our best to get it forcards you. and order your personalised collect them in the shop Christmas stock now in.

We sell Saltburn Souvenirs, Postcards, Fridge Magnets, Key Rings, Prints and Greeting Cards. Saltburn Christmas Cards and Calendars on sale now!

Open 9.00am till 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday 25

Late Night Christmas Shopping in Saltburn - lots of shops open until 7pm on Thursdays, 6th, 13th and 20th December....

Shop Local, Shop Late!

26

Record crowd at Saltburn’s War Memorial A record crowd of 600-700 gathered round Saltburn‘s war memorial to remember the Fallen of World War One. The sun shone as more than 30 individuals and organisations silently laid wreaths on the newly-refurbished memorial.

Round it were figures of poppies of animals, which helped Britain and other countries to win the ‗war to end all wars.‘ The display was made by members of Building Bridges at the Toc H building.

Among the 64 names read out by cadets was that of Lieutenant Wilfred Littleboy, whose family, of Woodlands, Victoria Terrace, Saltburn, paid for the memorial.

The previous day about 100 people gathered to watch a Saltburn-made time capsule being buried under a flagstone in front of the memorial.

In it were 1d coins from 1914-18, two bullets and a copy of Behind the Names, a book written by Ian Bedford, of Hob Hill, Saltburn, about the 84 men, including 20 from WW2, named on the memorial.

Helping to lay it were two Huntcliff students Bowen Krause and Jamie Cuthbert, whose families have Service links.

A carpet of 2,500 poppies knitted by WI members was put up outside Emmanuel Church. A notice board included poems and peace prayers - plus seven sheets of A1 listing wars since 1918.

The heading was: The war to end all wars?

Mike Morrissey

27

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

Skinningrove Bonfire 2018 Christmas came early to Skinningrove on Monday, 5th November with a bonfire and decorations that reflected the festive season. Once again, volunteers of all ages worked with local authorities and businesses to produce a dazzling display. A mild, dry evening with a light breeze from the south also helped to make this a wonderful event.

The village and hillsides were thronged with spectators who were treated first to a magical firework display. A kaleidoscope of colour was created by a combination of spectacular airbursts and explosions from the ground that resembled the rat-tat-tat of anti-aircraft fire. The sound of fireworks echoed through the valley as smoke drifted out to sea; meanwhile, the bonfire was illuminated as a prelude to being the centre of attention later.

Lighting of the bonfire and the ensuing spectacle of a silhouette highlighting a sleigh, reindeer, Christmas trees and snowflakes had people gasping in awe. This temporary artwork, created by Steve Iredale, will live long in the memory. As well as the fireworks and bonfire, we were treated to vibrant displays of festive decorations through the village.

Skinningrove Bonfire has been a magnet for local people and visitors since 1982. This year‘s event must rank among the very best and it‘s a tribute to a resilient community which has experienced much adversity. The work of all who contributed financially and with their time is much appreciated...and let‘s not forget Guy Fawkes, whose deeds started it all.

John Roberts 28

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

John Taylor Members of Saltburn community and folk music fans packed Emmanuel church, Saltburn, on Thursday, 15th November for a celebration of the life of John Taylor, organiser of the town‘s annual folk music festival.

Elder brother of Saltburn activist Jackie Taylor, who died in August last year, he died in hospital unexpectedly after a short illness. He was understood to have been in his early 80s.

Heather Taylor said her husband was a ‗constantly cheery‘ man, who ‗avoided committees.‘ I knew him as a joke-a-minute character and hands-on organiser working behind the scenes and putting his hand in his own pocket to keep the August folk event solvent.

He also ran car boot sales in the town centre many Sundays for the Christmas lights and summer floral displays.

Among his many quiet acts of kindness was to act as a ‗Mr Shifter‘ carrying loads on his car trailer, including helping to renovate Skelton Old Church.

Emmanuel vicar the Rev Adam Reed said his faith was an important part of his life. He was a Mason and member of Emmanuel parish.

The nationally-known famous Wilson family sang at the service and received a round of applause. Later, a concert was held at Redcar‘s Cutty Wren club, with which John Taylor was associated.

A retired ICI driver, he lived at Marske Road, Saltburn. He was very close to his mother Harriet, of Cleveland Street.

Mike Morrissey

The show must go on Following the death of John Taylor, main organiser of Saltburn‘s annual folk festival for about 25 years, friends have rallied round to make sure the show goes on for next year and future years.

Paul Lucas, who has acted as festival treasurer for several years, said members of the Cutty Wren folk club, Redcar, and Saltburn‘s folk club, had decided to run the 2019 Saltburn festival.

He said, ―plenty of offers to help,‖ came at a wake concert held after John Taylor‘s funeral and farewell service, held on 15th November at a packed Emmanuel church,

Saltburn. Sponsorship was also being sought from local businesses. ―This year we had over 50 acts, each featuring between one and a dozen people. About 400 people attended,‖ said Mr Lucas. ―The number of people attending has remained as steady as in recent years. But many more were from Saltburn.‖ The festival, which is held over a weekend in midAugust, includes a lot of events open to the public at no charge. Saltburn‘s folk club meets every Monday evening at the Marine Hotel, Marine Parade. Anyone interested is welcome.

Mike Morrissey 29

or email: simon.robson1@ntlworld.com Looking for somewhere to stay?....Holiday, Family, Friends coming to visit?

Short stays welcome, 2 nights minimum.

Centrally located only 300yds from Saltburn Square, shops, restaurants, bars, 5 minutes from beach. Self catering, 2 bedroomed Cottage offers a modern well equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, bathroom, 1 double bedroom, 1 single with bunk beds. Sofa bed in lounge if needed. WiFi and a private parking space. Pet friendly.

For all enquiries 784 or 01287 651896.

Contact

Carol

07817

506

KICAS News Keeping It Clean At Saltburn would like to invite you to our next monthly beach clean on Saturday, December 1st, from 11am to 12 noon.

We meet on the Lower Prom at the small Victorian shelter next to the new beach huts. We provide pickers, gloves and collection buckets for adults and children and it‘s wonderful to see an increasing number of families coming along.

We are busy creating decorations, made from our beach clean finds, for our Christmas Tree which will be displayed at the Christmas Tree Festival, held at Emmanuel Church in the first week in December. If you find anything on the beach that could be turned into decorations just let us know via Facebook.

All the volunteers at KICAS would like to wish you a very happy and single use plastic free Christmas and thank you all for your continued support and hard work in

keeping our beautiful beach clean.

Let‘s KICAS!

Rotary News As we approach Christmas and the end of another year, the members of Saltburn Rotary Club can feel a sense of achievement and pride, as the club continues to grow and develop.

A vibrant mix of informative speakers, fun events & raising money for good causes continue to be the prime objectives. Following a rather splendid Halloween party (pictured here) came presentations from Steve Brock, Stockton Street Pastor and three Huntcliff Campus Students seeking support for a trip to Tanzania to take part in humanitarian aid work.

At the end of November, Saltburn Rotakids planted 1000 Crocus Corms along Saltburn Railway Platform and outside of Sainsbury‘s to help raise awareness of the Rotary fight for a polio free world.

On Friday, 8th December, the Rotakids will also have a stall at The Huntcliff School Christmas Fair, to raise funds for further charitable causes.

Our Chocolate Tombola at the Community Centre (courtesy of past president Les Manship) on Saturday, 15th December will again raise much needed charitable funds and 30

the following day, Sunday, 16th December, the Rotary Family Christmas Celebration will be held at Saltburn Cricket Club.

Finally, some thank yous. To all of our members, including our Rotakids, for their fantastic work in throughout 2018. That voluntary work and fundraising has made such a difference to so many. But most of all thank you to the wonderful Saltburn Community who never tire of supporting us and our many causes.

Have a great Christmas. Here‘s to 2019.

Niall Southall as Elvis Sat 5th Jan tickets only.

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Memories of wild childhoods in East Cleveland The Tees Valley Wildlife Trust has just released a book celebrating the lost free roaming outdoor childhoods of East Cleveland.

The book, a compilation of memories of childhood gifted by older members of the East Cleveland community explores the unique nature of these lost childhoods. Can you remember roaming for miles with your pals, potato picking week, blocking becks for a swim, collecting birds‘ eggs or just spending hours on the beach?

This book will stir memories of more innocent childhoods without phones, computers or X-boxes. Produced with funding from National Lottery Players through the Heritage Lottery fund it is the outcome of a two year oral history project. ―The memories in the book are funny, thought provoking and sometimes reflective‖ said Kate Bartram of the Wildlife Trust. ―We have selected memories from our interviews to give people a sense of the types of activities the past children got up to and an idea of how well connected they were with nature compared to children today‖. Children back then appeared to be quite fearless from building boats out of bath tubs, stealing dynamite from mines, climbing trees and cliffs to great heights and swimming in all weathers. The older people in the community also shared their memories of

seeing wildlife that is now gone from East Cleveland such as red squirrels, water voles, dormouse, corncrakes and adders. Sadly it demonstrates how quickly wildlife can be lost from our countryside in a life time.

The book makes the ideal present for those with a yearning for yesteryear or who grew up in East Cleveland.

They are available from the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust at the Margrove Heritage Centre or from libraries in East Cleveland. Price £5.00 (plus postage and packaging where applicable). For more information contact info@teeswildlife.org or call 01287 636382.

Health and Happiness: What do you really want this Christmas?

I‘ve found it interesting how some people can turn away from any talk about happiness because they dismiss it as a generic term with no one-size-fits-all way to get there.

Others point out to me how they don‘t even like happiness as an aim because they want to feel anger, sadness, despair, and all the other emotions as well. They tell me they don‘t want a sugar coated life where they see themselves skipping down the lane singing La La La, merrily oblivious as they go. Well I get it, I get why they say these things.

Anyone who stays longer, however, and really gets what I am saying will hear that life is a constant question of choice, what we choose to focus on and how we choose to perceive what we look at. Our focus is what creates our reality and we can choose to perceive things in a way that brings us more happiness or less; it‘s up to us.

We create patterns of behaviour and if we are mostly unconscious about what we are doing we can end up following the herd and can often find ourselves in a cold uncomfortable place that doesn‘t feel good to us. Or we become true conscious leaders and start to choose what makes us happier on a deeper level, intelligently bypassing what is a quick fix to lead ourselves to deeper contentment in a way of our own choosing.

I often look at life from the big picture, life as a whole, or how we might feel on our death bed, or what did we come into life as a human being actually to do?

Loads of things surprise me about what we all collectively do with our lives. It interests me how prevalent addiction is, how we drift into behaviours, phones, laptops and TVs, that are so often blind spots for so many of us, even when they don‘t give us any sense of deep pleasure. We seem to reflect and educate ourselves hardly at all about what is actually healthy for us and what makes us more happy in our lives.

Addictions and unhealthy behaviours don‘t stand out

when almost everyone else does them too. We self-justify and let it go under the radar, we can become addicted to blindly following and not thinking. Social media can often support low self esteem and depression yet we keep doing it because the internet and instant entertainment is addictive and everyone else seems to do it.

Bruce Parry the explorer said, ―what we see as normal behaviour is not nourishing us on a normal level. Society teaches us that more stimulation is what brings us happiness, but that is not the case.‖ As Christmas and present giving time approaches many of us have become hypnotised by the idea that receiving objects and gaining financial material wealth is their main aim not just now but in life as a whole. Many people work themselves to the bone to get a reserve of money and go to their death beds with plenty in the bank but with a whole load of things they haven‘t had time to achieve, including the most important part of working out how to be more happy and how to connect more to others and with their deeper selves.

I don‘t claim to know the ‗right‘ way to live for anybody but I am quite focussed on the question of what brings us more happiness in our lives. What we focus on is a large part of that answer. Ultimately we can have a deepening relationship into who we are and how we feel once we are intelligent enough to see our addictions and what we have become inadvertently focussed on.

If you could have more of something this Christmas would you choose more of what everyone else seems to be following or more of what really enriches that deeper connection to yourself? I know what I‘m hoping for.

Kendal Aitken Health and Happiness Coach / Counsellor.

First consultation free.

Contact: coach@happygreenblueeyes.co.uk or 07944 883961 33

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

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

Looking for a Christmas Present with a difference? £20 GIFT VOUCHERS (5 classes) are now available for ANY of the classes below…

Put the FABULOUS into FITNESS with SOSA!!

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

Mondays: 7pm Packed with Latin beats, EASY TO FOLLOW, TONING and a fun OVERALL WORKOUT Mondays: 6pm Thursdays: 10am PILATES, YOGA & BALLET: works on overall toning, flexibility and core strength.

Wednesdays: 7pm

For more information about classes, venues, prices…

Call ESTELLE on 07887 525234 or visit...

What’s Happening at Marske Hall Christmas Shopping evening - Saturday, December 1st, 6.30-9.30pm. Enjoy an evening of Christmas shopping with a difference. Craft stalls, clothing & accessories, pamper stalls, refreshments and raffle. Plus special fashion show from Sophie‘s Boutique. Free admission, donations welcome, all proceeds will go towards enhancing the lives of residents of Marske Hall.

For details of other events at Marske Hall, please call the Hall on 01642 482672 (or find us on Facebook www.facebook/marskehall.com).

The residents, staff and volunteers at Marske Hall would like to wish everyone a happy Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year, thank you for your support.

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. Thank you for your continued support. Funds raised at these events will enhance the lives of people living at Marske Hall. Registered Charity No: 218186. For details of these and other events call 01642 482672 or visit: www.facebook/marskehall.com Marske Hall, Redcar Road, TS11 6AA Kath Bloomfield 34

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.

Merry Christmas from us at SARA. We are Misty and Smudge the cats and we are looking for our forever homes.

Misty is a very beautiful smoky grey, semi long hair cat, with golden eyes. She is about 4 year old. She came to SARA after her owner sadly passed away. Misty enjoys having cuddles in her cattery pen but will let you know when she has had enough. Misty also likes to spend time snoozing, cosy and warm next to her radiator. Misty is looking for a home as an only pet and with an experienced cat owner. She could live with older children who have spent time with cats in the past.

Smudge is a white and tabby lad and is about 8 years old. He came to SARA following a change in his owner‘s circumstances. Smudge loves nothing more than to snooze throughout the day, but he will soon wake when our highly trained cat ‗cuddlers‘ come in, as he loves attention and a good fuss, and spending time with people. Smudge is ideally looking for a quiet home where he can get lots of attention and TLC. Smudge would have to be an only pet, and would be okay in a home with older children - over 8 years and familiar with cats.

SARA fundraising events during December SARA Christmas Fayre Saturday 8th December 10am-1pm at Marske Hall, Redcar Road, Marske. Sherry, mince pies and coffee, raffle, tombola, cake and book stalls. Xmas stalls and gifts for animals.

Carols at Foxrush Sunday 9th December 2pm - 3.30pm.

Mulled wine, tea, coffee available. Bring your dog to sing along with Sara dogs.

Sunday 4th November proved to be a celebratory day weather-wise, support wise and new project wise. Under blue skies and sunshine animal lovers looked on as three lots of red ribbons were cut to open three new ventures. Four new kennels means four more dogs will benefit from luxury accommodation at the sanctuary whilst awaiting their forever home. Each kennel has been sponsored by generous donators and plaques celebrate their generosity. In addition the dated main block, housing eight kennels, has been renovated with much improved drainage installed, energy efficient heating and contemporary interiors for the comfort of the ‗residents‘. This area will be fondly known as the ‗Ann P Block‘ after Ann Prosser the original founder of the charity.

A new enclosed outdoor adventure playground, referred to as the ‗The Catio‘ allows the cats to spend time outdoors, fulfilling their curiosity and natural instincts.

Proving to be a big hit, prospective adopters can now view the cats and kittens in a more natural environment, seeing their personalities and individual characters emerge in the stimulating setting.

To celebrate the event the JMS Ukuleles provided music and song, Dawn McCormack baked and decorated a truly magnificent and intricately adorned two tier cake complete with fairy lights, and certificates were presented to volunteers to show appreciation of their time and commitment to the charity. SARA wishes to sincerely thank all parties involved in the projects including builders, contractors, supporters, volunteers, staff and friends.

Of course extra accommodation brings with it an increased workload, thus new volunteers are needed to be part of the SARA team. For further details please contact Tel: 01642 488108 or email sara.foxrushfarm@btconnect.com.

Joy and Mandy 35

Feed the Birds

Methodist Tiling News

At this time of year, put out food and water on a regular basis.

In severe weather, feed twice daily if you can: in the morning and in the early afternoon.

Birds require high-energy (high-fat) foods during the cold winter weather to maintain their fat reserves to survive the frosty nights. Use only good-quality food and scraps.

Always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to accumulate around the feeders.

Once you establish a feeding routine, try not to change it as the birds will become used to it and time their visits to your garden accordingly.

Give your wild birds a treat that is packed full of high energy ingredients. Suet is an essential food for wild birds, providing them with instant energy when they need it most.

Fat balls are provided in nets for easy hanging; however, small birds can become entangled in them. Always take the fat balls out of the net, and the same goes for peanuts too, cut the netting up into tiny pieces before putting into your dustbin so that it doesn‘t endanger birds at the landfill sites.

You will probably have noticed that the Milton Street Methodist Church roof and guttering have now been repaired.

Thanks to the generosity of our many friends and neighbours we have managed to raise about £4500 towards the £7000 needed to pay for the repairs to our roof and guttering. This is a tremendous achievement and we could not have done it without the help of many individuals and groups from the town and immediate area around. We just need a final push for the last £2500. Anyone wishing to contribute can leave donations at the church on any morning or by post to Graham Cottam at 80 Hazelgrove Park, Milton Street, Saltburn, TS12 1FE. There are also a few Smarties® tubes still available.

Once more, a massive ‗thank you‘ for your efforts so far.

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CHRISTMAS GOOD NEWS

BY REV ADAM REED

DARKNESS I see so many people who experience some form of darkness in their lives.

It is tragic to see the effects of selfinflicted darkness because of the choices people have made. But it is particularly heart-breaking to see people suffer darkness because of the actions of others. If you are experiencing a form of darkness in your life, is there a light seeking to get your attention?

LIGHT I know many people who have found a reassuring light in their darkness, because they trust in Jesus. For some the light of Jesus has dispelled the darkness; and for others it has made their darkness bearable. All these people know in their hearts Jesus’ promise, “I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Services Times Sundays 9.00am traditional communion 10.45am contemporary worship

DEATH I see the reality of physical death looming large over myself and every human being. It is unavoidable. And death throws up all kinds of questions about human meaning and purpose.

At Christmas time those who have experienced the death of a loved one can feel their loss most keenly. But in the face of death is there any final hope? Is there a place where we can enjoy life after death?

LIFE I believe there is hope in life after death because I believe Jesus died and rose again. My future hope of living in a place where there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain is founded solely on Jesus. I trust Jesus when he says, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!

And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”

Tuesdays 9.30am said communion

Morning Prayer 9.00am Mon-Fri in ECHO

Contact Details tel 01287 622251

email emmanuelsaltburn@hotmail.co.uk

web www.emmanuelsaltburn.co.uk

DISCONNECTION I see people of all ages afflicted by alienation and loneliness, by broken relationships and dashed dreams.

Such people may live in a community but they struggle to be a part of the community. They may be busy working hard, but they feel more like a machine than a person. They may not fit the picture of what is deemed cool, fashionable or acceptable. Is there anyone who will love them?

LOVE I know Jesus loves me with an everlasting love. He showed his love by his birth in a stable in Bethlehem, and by his crucifixion on a cross in Jerusalem. I am no longer disconnected or alone, because Jesus connects me to the love of God. Jesus tells you and me a profound truth, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.

Now remain in my love.”

Visitors are especially welcome at Emmanuel to view the WI Christmas Tree Festival from 1st—8th December

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Open seven days a week Quality Fresh Fruit and Veg at Competitive Prices.

If it’s grown locally we do our best to source it.

Stocking a wide range of health foods, chutneys, jams and honeys.

Monday to Friday: 10.00am to 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am to 5.00pm Sunday from 11.00am

5 Station Buildings

Grasers 07703 884184 Find us on Facebook Try something different at Grasers

Christmas Goodies Seen here are all the old favourites from previous years but also some new ones such as the Yorkshire Rapeseed Oil Christmas Collection box containing five different oils: Sweet Cranberry, Oak-Smoked, Plain, Limited Edition Garlic, Rosemary, Thyme and Oregano, and Honey and Mustard. Spice up your Christmas with nonalcoholic punches and cordials, the spices for mulled wine and mulled cider and nutmegs, complete with grater. Relax with Amaretto D‘Italia amaretto cookies or indulge in Mrs Darlington‘s Very Special Christmas Preserve made from plums, port and spices - tastes exactly like Christmas!

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The Re:Furnish Emporium:

ReCycling, ReFreshing, ReLoving furniture in Saltburn ‗A lovely treasure house‘, ‗Excellent shop: very friendly staff – delivery driver second to none‘, ‗spotless, inventive setting out‘. The comments in the Re:furnish Visitors‘ Book show that this enterprise is thriving. Situated in the former Saltburn Saleroom in Diamond Street, the Emporium is open from Tuesday – Friday from 10.00 till 4.00 and on Saturday and Monday from 10.00 till 2.00. There is an enticing display of items, including sofas and chairs, dining and occasional tables, wardrobes, sideboards and bookcases.

The idea of refurbishing and recycling local furniture came through employees at Beyond Housing, formerly Coast and Country Housing. They were aware that people moving out of their properties were leaving furniture behind, which was subsequently dumped in landfill. They also knew that the next people moving in, including care leavers, sometimes had nothing to put in their flats and houses. The idea blossomed and resulted in the Saltburn not-for-profit business, aiming to give items some TLC and find them a new home. Kaye Rideout was given the job as Manager. ―The driver and I are the only employees,‖ says Kaye. ―The rest of the collecting, checking, cleaning and repairing is done by volunteers.‖ She praises Peter, who is a meticulous worker, with skills in fixing things; he has been with Re:Furnish for three and a half years. Roger paints, varnishes and polishes and Kath spends one day a week recovering small items and helping on the shop floor with Kaye.

They are growing increasingly imaginative and developing their skills. ―For example, we had a cabinet come in with broken glass. We took the legs off and made a footstool out of it!‖ says Kaye.

Each day, Luke, the van driver has a volunteer to help him with collections and deliveries. They are typically in their twenties and trying to gain experience to add to their CVs. Some have moved on into work. In the early days, the enterprise did try to involve teenagers in restoring the furniture, but the level of supervision needed was too demanding.

Re:Furnish welcomes donations of furniture in good condition from everyone and also does house clearances.

Clothing is passed on to Emmanuel Church Shop. ―It‘s important to work together in a small area,‖ says Kaye. Large electricals aren‘t accepted, because of the amount of testing needed, but items such as small lamps are, as one volunteer is qualified to assess their safety. Bric-a-brac is accepted too.

Soft furnishings need to have fire safety labels on them and unfortunately they can‘t take mattresses.. ―We are proud to help people who are most in need,‖ adds Kaye. ―We aim to set them up with a starter kit of pots, pans and cutlery, when they‘re referred to us by the Council or colleagues and in some cases, we provide basic furniture packages.‖ It is really important to Kaye to feel part of the community. Her career has involved her in helping people from welfare to work, especially the long-term unemployed.

Now her commitment includes making the premises a pleasant place for people to browse. She makes and hangs colourful bunting to recreate an idea of what home could look like and every few months organises a coffee morning with free drinks and her home-made cakes so visitors can sit and

chat. There are shelves of donated books and DVDs to peruse too.

How does the team know what prices to charge for furniture? Kaye explains that the Reuse Network provides guidelines and experience helps her know what is a fair price. She also visits other similar premises to get a feel for what‘s appropriate. ―We do sell a lot, so we‘re confident that we‘re being competitive and reasonable.‖ Saltburn Re:Furnish is proud of saving an average of ten and a half tons of furniture a month from going to landfill. Thus poverty is reduced, waste is cut and social exclusion is tackled. Volunteers develop skills and community is strengthened.

The team notices that there is an ‗amazing crosssection of visitors‘ to the premises. Kaye says: ―People still come in and ask if this is the Saleroom, then they are surprised by what is on display.‖ While undertaking this interview, we were stopped by a lady from Darlington saying: ―It‘s really nice here – it‘s well laid out and you can just wander round and people are helpful.‖ Then she moved on to buy two sideboards and arrange their delivery!

Re-Furnish is keen to encourage more volunteers to join the enterprise and urges interested people to get in touch by popping in or phoning 01287 622325. There is a website: www.re-furnish.org.uk and a Facebook page: www.facebook.com/refurnish. It doesn‘t matter whether a volunteer is looking to build a better CV or just wanting to give something back; Kaye will discuss the options of spending time behind the scenes, collecting or repairing furniture; working in the offices or on the shop floor helping people choose the right piece of furniture for them.

Lastly, let‘s return to the Visitors‘ Book to see what people from further afield say. Robert from Derby comments: ‗Kept clean and tidy. Good furniture well kept.

I‘ve bought some good bits.‘ Elsie from Middlesex reports: ‗Furniture is nice and clean. Good prices. Friendly people.‘ What‘s not to like?

Rosemary Nicholls 39

Christmas Crackers at the Cons Club Welcome to my monthly newsletter from the Con Club.

Although I have a lot to report on events happening during December I would first like to go back to two events that took place during November. Firstly, the last club tour of the year to Durham on November 3rd was a big success with a full coach of members enjoying the historic city and cathedral plus having a few drinks in the pubs and enjoying good meals in the restaurants and cafes. This was followed with a buffet put on by Michelle, our fantastic stewardess, on the return to the club. The second event to report on was the Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph where many of our members joined the big attendance at the wreath laying ceremony which was a very emotional and moving occasion for everybody. Following this members returned to the club where a buffet was available for all attendees including the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire who joined the service once again. Following the buffet the club showed the WW1 Christmas Day Truce reincarnation football match on our big screen TV, plus other proceedings, held on Saltburn beach on 1st June 2014 which raised £7,230 for the restoration of the town‘s war memorial.

Many thanks for this go to Allan Whiley who made all the arrangements, plus the advertising, and also gave a little speech on the day.

Moving into December and we have a lot of events taking place leading up to Christmas and the New Year which are detailed below: Tuesday 4th: Monthly meeting of SLUG (Saltburn Line Users Group). This is for all railway enthusiasts, especially local line services. Everyone is welcome and the meeting is held in the upstairs function room. Please note that the time of the monthly meetings has been altered and they will now commence at 7pm.

Saturday 8th (evening) and Sunday 9th (afternoon) we will be hosting private birthday parties for club members. This again shows the advantage of being a member and being able to hire the facilities of the club free.

Saturday 15th: The club Christmas Draw will be held, starting at 8pm. The board to place your name next to a chosen number will be in the bar until the commencement of the draw.

Numbers cost 50p each. Prizes have greatly improved upon recent years and, apart from the usual Spirits, Wines, Meat Vouchers, Pheasants, Bubbly and 10 x 1 Gallon of Beer, plus other prizes, we will be having money prizes for the first time which consist of 1 x £250, 2 x 100 & 2 x £50. All members are encouraged to participate and hopefully they may come away with a big prize.

Wednesday 19th: Christmas Quiz, Bingo & Buffet Supper .

Tickets are priced at £4 each and we will sell out for this event which will commence at 8pm so be sure to buy your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Our very own Julie Towell will be asking the questions (compiled by Michelle) and also calling the bingo and I can promise you that this will be a very funny and entertaining night which you do not want to miss.

Saturday 22nd: Christmas Presents for the Children from Father Christmas. Father Christmas will be handing out presents to members‘ children & grandchildren aged 12 years and under from his Grotto in the snug. This event starts at 2.30pm through to 4pm.

A children‘s Disco will also be held in conjunction with this event hosted by club DJ (DJ Cookie). Members who have not already filled in a form to qualify for a present must do so before December 13th. Forms are available from the snug where you will also find Santa‘s Post-box to put them in.

Saturday 22nd: Club Christmas Party. Following the children‘s event on the afternoon we will be holding the club Christmas Party starting at 7.30pm hosted by our resident DJ (DJ Cookie) who will be providing the entertainment. A perfect opportunity to dig out your Christmas fancy dress and have a brilliant night getting into the Christmas spirit early.

Monday 24th (Christmas Eve): Club Christmas Carol

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Concert. Once again we are holding our popular carol concert in the club starting at 6.45pm through to 7.30pm. An added bonus this year is the backing of a Brass Band Quartet. Carol sheets are provided and Michelle is providing a small buffet including mince pies. This event is now a firmly established fixture in our Christmas calendar of events and draws more people very year.

Come along and start Christmas in a very special way.

Friday 28th: ‗Open Mic Night‘ Christmas Party. Hosted

by Teesside Steve & Liz Bishop with names to entertain taken from 7.30pm and the music starting at 8pm. This event is held in the upstairs function room where you can hear the best of live entertainment. I would like to thank Steve & Liz for the massive input they have put in to make these nights such a success.

Monday 31st (New Year‘s Eve): We finish the month and the year with the club‘s new Year‘s Eve party. The perfect opportunity to say goodbye to 2018. Club favourite Paul Morrison will be entertaining us with his singing plus music & dancing leading up to midnight.

Proceeding to other matters and from a personal point of view I would like to thank Michelle and Julie Towell plus all the bar-staff for the work they have put in over the past year. We have had a very busy year and, as the face of the club, they have always been obliging, smiling and friendly apart from being excellent in the work they do even when under pressure. It is great credit to them that the club has had so many favourable comments. I would also like to thank the committee who have worked tirelessly throughout the year. Improvements are still ongoing with more to follow next year and their input and decision making have been crucial to the progress we are making. On another personal note I would like to thank Chairman Joe Cockfield who has put in many, many hours of work on a weekly basis to ensure the success we have achieved.

Owing to personal circumstances I have not been able to contribute as much over the past year and for this reason I so much appreciate the friendship, backing & support I have received from Joe, although we speak to each other on a daily basis on many club matters. Last but not least the members of the club have to be praised for the backing and support they have given the club. Without their continued contribution we would not be in the position we are today. Their support for everything we do in the club makes all the effort worthwhile.

Please remember that all our regular weekly activities continue leading up to Christmas with the club draw every Tuesday (except Christmas Day) starting at 10pm when you can win Meat Voucher, Wines and Chocolates. The Sunday drinks draw will be held every Sunday at 6pm when you can win drinks vouchers and, if you are a member, you could have a chance to win the Cash Rollover which goes up by £25 each week if not won and currently stands at £650. Also ‗Happy Hour‘ is available to members from 4.30pm to 7pm midweek and 3pm to 7pm weekends and Bank Holidays.

The schedule for Christmas & New Year opening times will be issued nearer the time but you can find out this information plus all activities happening in the club by going onto the club Facebook page at ‗Saltburn Conservative & Unionist Club‘.

Lastly a thought for 2019: Life is what you make it so make it what you like.

From myself, the committee and Michelle & the bar-staff plus all members of the club may we wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

Best wishes, David.

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

Twinning Association News The Officers and Members of the Redcar & Cleveland Twinning Association Committee are pleased to announce that Sheelagh Clarke has recently accepted their invitation to become the Association‘s new President. On confirmation of her appointment, Sheelagh said ―I have admired the very good work done by the Association members and I feel that the need for personal contact between ordinary people of different nations to promote friendship has not diminished in this digital age.‖ Sheelagh was previously a Business Studies lecturer at Middlesbrough College for 30 years and also a Redcar & Cleveland Councillor for the Teesville Ward in Greater Eston from July 2000 to 2015, including as Deputy Leader 20072012.

Sheelagh has had personal involvement with our Twinning Association as a host to German visitors in the past as well as being the Council‘s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure & Tourism, during which time she gave her full support to the Association and attended events associated with the visits here of our German friends.

Redcar and Cleveland has been twinned with Troisdorf in Germany since 1990; Troisdorf is situated in the Rhine Valley mid-way between Cologne and Bonn and comprises of 12 distinct communities, a mixture of industrial, rural, historical and commercial areas, very similar to Redcar and Cleveland. We are well-matched and have enjoyed regular contact with one another over the years, building up many long-standing and firm friendships between families.

A group of 26 members of the Redcar and Cleveland Twinning Association have just returned home earlier this month after another wonderful visit to our German friends, staying with host families.

We were shown around the Bonn Government‘s Cold War Bunker in the Ahr Valley and learned more about Germany‘s recent history at the Haus der Geschichte in Bonn. A ride in the Kaiser‘s Carriage along the Wuppertal Suspension Railway was one of the trip‘s highlights.

We‘re now all looking forward to our German visitors coming here next year and then to celebrating our 30th anniversary together in 2020.

The Association will be decorating a Christmas Tree as part of the Saltburn Christmas Tree Festival taking place at Emmanuel Church in early December, as well as having a stall at the Guisborough Christmas Festival in the Methodist Church Hall on Westgate during the evening of Tuesday 4th December. Please do come along to talk to us if you‘re interested in finding out more about our twin town.

Alternatively please see our website (at www.redcarandclevelandtwinningassociation.org.uk).

Holly Blue 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

We would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support during 2018.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you all Local Author Book Signing Events During December

Sat 1st 11-2 Deborah Barwick, Sat 8th 10-4 Frank English, Sat 15th 11-2 Mary Jayne Baker, Also Sat 15th 2.30-4.30 John Regan.

45 Milton Street (Opposite Sainsbury’s Car Park)

Tel: 01287 624283 41

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

No Chocolate for Dogs Chocolate poisoning is the most commonly reported type of dog poisoning reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, hyperactivity, high temperature and blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm and tremors.

Keep all Christmas chocolates out of reach from dogs, don‘t put them under the Christmas tree or hang the novelty chocolates from the tree branches.

Saltburn Community and Arts Association Following the AGM of the Saltburn Community & Arts Association (SCAA) held in May of this year I was once again elected as Chairman of the Management Committee. On behalf of that Committee I would like to say a very big thank you to our members and to the wider community in Saltburn and its surrounding areas for continuing to support events held in the Community Centre and the Theatre. In addition, I personally would like to extend my sincere thanks to all members of the Management Committee, the staff and the many volunteers who give their time, expertise and support to the running of this iconic local treasure. May I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

Tony Smith

Vote for the Saltburn Community and Arts Association!

Reindeer Food Reindeer food is a product created for children to leave out in the garden - in the belief Santa‘s reindeer will eat it on Christmas Eve. However, the RSPCA is warning that the ―food‖, made with oats, glitter and metallic foil, could be very harmful to real animals.

The RSPCA wrote on their Facebook page: ―Urgent plea to save garden wildlife from harm this Christmas! If your child has made pretty reindeer food please do not sprinkle it on the lawn as the labels suggest as many of our very hungry small garden birds and mammals could ingest the plastic and foil glitter along with the oats potentially causing long term damage to their digestive systems. The product does encourage the reindeer food to be put in the garden, with a poem on the packaging that reads: ―Make a wish and close eyes tight then sprinkle on your lawn at night‖.

For years Santa‘s reindeer have eaten carrots. Let‘s stick to that, it‘s safe, environmentally friendly and they fly well on it!

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The Saltburn Community and Arts Association is excited to announce that we have been chosen by the Co-op for their next round of community funding!

The Co-op Community Fund, founded in 2017, works with communities to help promote and support local charities by allowing their members to vote for the causes that they are most passionate about. If Co-op members vote for us as their personal cause, then 1% of the money they spend in stores gets sent straight to us, and the funds we receive will go towards organising a series of concerts to showcase Saltburn‘s young musicians. If you are at all interested in the arts, or in any of the other events and services that we provide, then please consider voting for us, and supporting us while you shop!

Our place in the scheme will last for 12 months, ending on the 12th of October, 2019. For more information on obtaining a Co-op membership and getting involved with the Co-op Community Fund, please visit coop.co.uk/membership.

In other news, for the first time in 12 years we have made some small changes to the pricing of our Film Society, with new ticket prices being £5 for existing members, and £7 for guests. These changes will first come into effect on our screening of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, on the 13th of December. If you‘re in the mood for some ABBA, tickets are available for purchase online at saltburnarts.co.uk.

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The Saltburn Profile by Rosemary Nicholls Janice Jarvis ―Saltburn is a vibrant, active town to retire in,‖ says Janice Jarvis, who moved here from Upleatham village in 2011.

Since then, she has committed herself to volunteering with Earthbeat Theatre Company, with Saltburn Community and Arts Association and acting as an enthusiastic Befriender of asylum seekers and refugees at their local monthly social events.

Janice was born in York, the eldest of four siblings three girls and one boy. On coming out of the RAF, her Dad got a job on Teesside and the family moved to Ormesby.

Eight years later, they moved to Nunthorpe and she transferred from Ormesby Primary to Nunthorpe Primary, before enrolling at Stokesley Secondary School. After leaving there, she went to Billingham Tech to do Drama under Ken Parkin. Stockton-born actors Richard Griffiths and Elizabethan Estensen were also students there at that time.

All three went on to Manchester Poly School of Theatre. ―This was a very good three year course, because it prepared students for professional theatre and provided a teaching qualification,‖ she says. ―The latter subsequently proved to be very handy.‖ After graduation, Janice worked in professional theatre in Manchester, Stirling, Nottingham and Coventry.

She eventually specialised in Theatre in Education for young people, as a lot of local authorities funded TiE companies then. Thereafter, she moved to London and the Cockpit Theatre, which was owned and run by the Inner London Education Authority. There was a lot of support from ILEA for TiE - to encourage cross-curricular learning. ―I became interested in directing and visited Jamaica to observe a women‘s theatre company, Sistren, in Kingston for a couple of months. I returned to do some more directing and then I moved to Dublin for three and a half years in the late 1980s, where for a change, I taught drama in three prisons,‖ she recalls. She found this rewarding, as she says Irish culture is very respectful of the arts. One of the prisons, Wheatfield, was built with a theatre in it and with the support of the Governor, Janice directed the play ‗Brown Bread‘ by Roddy Doyle with the prisoners.

When she saw an advert for a teacher in a new facility - Holme House Prison, Stockton, Janice applied and was successful; back near home, she rented a 1680s cottage in Upleatham. But the job didn‘t fulfil her hopes and after a couple of years, she took on a new post as Artistic Director of the Replay Theatre Company in Belfast. ―We toured Catholic and Protestant schools and to Arts Centres throughout Northern Ireland, catering for children from four years old to upper secondary,‖ she says. They got very good reviews.

Five years later, she returned to Upleatham and began supply teaching at Kirkleatham Hall Special School. When a permanent, part-time post came up, she applied and was successful, so spent the last ten years of her working life there. ―I loved it,‖ she says.

Thinking ahead to her life as a retired person, Janice decided to move to a ground floor flat in Saltburn. She welcomed being closer to facilities and to train and bus links; since then, she has taken up lots of volunteering opportunities here. Using her experience at Kirkleatham, she helps out at Earthbeat on an ad hoc basis. ―I have met up with some of my former pupils there and that‘s been great,‖ she says.

She spent some of last summer organising the

transport for the Befrienders of asylum seekers and refugees group, bringing families to Saltburn for their monthly social event. She is committed to offering a hand of friendship to people who have fled from war and persecution and enjoys being in the company of like-minded volunteers.

Janice is a member of SCAA and she offers her help at Saltburn Theatre. She has occasionally done Front of House duties. She is a Trustee for the charity Carers Together, based in Redcar and now including Middlesbrough. Her involvement with U3A focuses on the Tuesday Playreading Group, but she also goes to French and to the Theatre Group meetings.

She goes to Maureen Payne‘s weekly Dancercise class in the Earthbeat Dance Studio and joins a group of friends for regular Sunday morning walks. She used to walk her dog, Bob, who came from SARA, but he sadly died after fifteen years with her and she won‘t replace him.

Janice enjoys reading historical novels, such as those

by C.J. Sansom and Hilary Mantel. She also likes Alan Bennett, Kate Atkinson and some stories, such as ‗The Poisonwood Bible‘ by Barbara Kingsolver. She appreciates a wide range of music, including the work of Van Morrison and Sarah Jane Morris. A member of Jeanette Wainwright‘s Saltburn choir, she likes singing a variety of songs.

When in Manchester, she followed Manchester United and shook hands with Matt Busby when she acted in a play about Manchester United. Players whom she used to watch included Dennis Law, Bobby Charlton and George Best.

Janice has travelled to India, Mexico and Cuba, as well as to Jamaica and many European countries. Last May, she went to Lake Bled in Slovenia, a place enjoyed by her parents, but next she is going to Ecclefechan in Scotland. ―I‘m attracted by the name and the tarts!‖ she laughs.

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1st Saltburn Scout Group All Sections were at Remembrance Day Services, Beavers having the largest attendance, Cubs and Scouts could have done better; other activities on Sundays, particularly junior football often intrudes.

Beavers currently running at 21 with Eddie and Ollie moving to Cubs are busy preparing themselves (just like Cubs) to parade for Santa and the turn on of the lights. Cubs with 19 on roll, welcomed Max, together with Eddie and Ollie. Leaders are aware that numbers will continue to rise as the progression from Beavers continues.

Scouts, although down to 15, are remaining busy: six joined other County Scouts for ‗Screamfest‘, a Halloween linked camp at Commondale. More importantly they are preparing for Scout Post.

Scout Post starts on Saturday, 24th November and continues till 12.30pm on Saturday, 15th December. The price remains the same at 25p per card and collecting boxes will be available between those dates in the Echo Building, the Leisure Centre, Marske Road petrol station, Sainsbury‘s and Saltburn Library (many thanks for their support). Scouts throughout East Cleveland deliver to those towns and villages listed on the box. No Deliveries elsewhere! This is the Group‘s main fund raising activity so please support our young people in their endeavours.

The Group‘s improvements to the entrance way are complete and following a grant from the Garfield Weston Trust a new kitchen will be installed and with an electrical system fit for the 21st century (many thanks to East Cleveland Housing Trust and David Gill for their endeavours). The Group has special thanks to Graeme Thomson (parent and local artist) for our ‗There but not There‘ outline displayed at the building and to be retained inside as a permanent reminder of 2018.

Many parents continue to assist with Section activities; if you can offer assistance or are interested in joining us, please enquire: John G. Hannah – 07811 801627 or johnghannah@yahoo.co.uk

Saltburn Line User Group Next Meeting: Tuesday, 4th December 2018 at 7.15pm.

Meetings at Saltburn Conservative Club are held on the first Tuesday of the month, 19.00pm for a 19.15pm start.

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 46

The Middleton Choir

Annual Christmas concert Guests: The Guisborough Salvation Army Band at The Methodist Church Milton Street Saltburn December 12th 2018 at 7.00pm Tickets £ 6.00 From choir members Or at the door Seasons refreshments included

Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society Our December meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of the month will be: 5th December: Terminology and queries; 19th December: President‘s Christmas Party and Quiz.

The photo shows last year‘s retiring president, Martin Snowdon, handing over to new president John Simms.

Geoff Reynolds (Secretary, 01642 478229) David D. Turner (01287 624 736)

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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.

Carols at Christmas Many celebrations associated with Christmas, actually have a very short tradition. The Christmas tree was introduced to this country in 1841 from a German tradition and the first Christmas card was produced in 1843. More recently, commercialism of Christmas has been huge with many Christmas cards and decorations on sale as early as September. With so many images of Santa Claus, of reindeer, snowmen, holly and plenty of lights, we might well ask what are the links with the real meaning of Christmas, for there seem to be few reminders of the humble birth of Christ as the Saviour sent by God into the world.

Thankfully, one custom dating from the Middle Ages and particularly from Victorian times was the revival of the singing of Christmas carols. Perhaps one of the most well known carols is ‗Silent Night‘, which has been translated into over 100 languages. Written by a priest in Austria it was first sung on Christmas Eve in 1818. It captures the atmosphere of that special occasion at the unique birth of Jesus as the Saviour. Nearer home, Charles Wesley wrote, ‗Hark! The Herald Angels Sing‘ based on the Bible account in Luke of the heavenly celebration of the birth of Jesus: ‗And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men‘. The birth of Jesus as Saviour is clearly emphasised in ‗O Little Town of Bethlehem,‘ as stated in Luke 2: ‗For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord‘. (The city of David was another name for

Bethlehem). An American preacher wrote this after visiting Bethlehem and it was first sung in public in 1868. Another well-known carol is ‗While Shepherds watched their flocks by night‘ describing the announcement of the Saviour‘s birth.

As Luke records, ‗And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night….. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.‘ These carols are now heard throughout much of the world, in Christian places of worship, and many public settings. Other songs associated with the Christmas season are enjoyed and sung although their emphasis is on non-religious seasonal themes, such as winter scenes, family gatherings, and the transforming of St Nicholas into Santa Claus.

Most of us feel that Christmas is somehow different and traditional Christmas carols continue to be recognized and enjoyed world wide as music for this special season.

What is often overlooked is their reminder that Christmas is more than personal enjoyment. God declared such amazing love in giving his Son as the Babe in Bethlehem‘s manger, to die later on a cross for our sins and so be the Saviour of all who believe and trust in Him. As Paul wrote to the Christians in Corinth in the Bible, ‗Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.‘ An important thought as we sing or hear a carol to remember the immensity of this gift and to receive it for ourselves!

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Saltburn Allotments Association Continue to pick productive crops, brassicas, Jerusalem artichokes, root crops and winter salad leaves.

Continue to clear spent crops and cover areas with rotted compost for no dig; You can clear and rough dig if you prefer this method, leaving the ground exposed to the winter weather to break it down; however, I prefer to protect the ground by mulching with cover crops or compost and allowing the soil to develop its network of air channels and mycorrhizal fungi supporting the microscopic world we know so little about. It does a great job of looking after itself but all the better if you foster it! (If you want to find out more research Charles Dowding for yourself!)

There are still things to be planted: shallots and garlic can still be planted as long as the weather holds and additional winter salad providing you give protection from the weather with fleece or cloches and protect any brassicas you started from in august with netting, as pigeons may find them irresistible as the weather worsens.

Prune any unproductive fruit trees or bushes over winter to boost crops for next year, and remove any diseased material.

You can plant bare rooted fruit bushes and trees, as long as they will not get waterlogged and rhubarb crowns can be divided and replanted, increasing your plants or can be shared with your neighbours, and you may get tasty swaps in return.

You may need to protect other crops with fleece or cloches when the weather turns wintry, or move those that are particularly tender under cover in a greenhouse or polytunnel if you have not already. Ensure you have plants well supported, sprouts for example are vulnerable to wind-rock so will benefit from being staked.

Your greenhouse may benefit from being insulated if you have crops inside or are planning to sow seed early next year but of course you will need to remove any crops that are finished. Give it a good clean first with a suitable preparation to remove any pests looking for a winter hotel and clean out any disease!

On good weather days take the opportunity to repair and maintain fences, sheds and plant supports, and tidy away any weeds. On cold or rainy days you could sort and clean your tools and equipment, removing any soil from spades, shovels, forks and rakes and the like, clean and sharpen hoes etc and wipe with an oily cloth to keep them rust free so they are ready for next season‘s use - a perfect job to do in a warm shed.

Get out your seed catalogues and continue to plan for the next year‘s crops.

When you are out walking pick things from the hedgerows to make a Christmas wreath or bespoke decorations for the festive season.

Most of all enjoy your veg on Christmas day, knowing you raised it all yourself and knowing exactly what it contains!

Julia 48

The Muses of Jim I have just had a delightful weekend in Scotland, by the shore of Loch Long at the Claymore Hotel. Betty and I had stayed in the past and I had travelled alone to the Loch to climb Ben Arthur, The Cobbler, but on arriving the weather was lousy with no chance of improving. So, I went to the East Coast. This time I was with Vicki and Megan. The hotel was very good in every way possible, but the four free drinks tested my resolution and I must admit I weakened and failed. We visited Luss on the way to the hotel, Inverary and Oban on Saturday, Callandar on Sunday, The Drovers Inn on the way back from Callander, Old pub where Rob Roy was to have supposedly killed three English soldiers.

Moffatt on Monday on the way home. A nice short break with family. I am sorry that I could not let you all know in advance, but as you all know someone out there is not very friendly towards me. Even Spud was not very happy on my return and he became even more unhappy when he learned about the very small gift for a neighbour. He became even more unhappy still when he learned it was a Royal Haggis and exploded in temper when he found out that she does not eat meat.

When I apologised for my mistake she only laughed and said she would give it to her husband. When I told Spud, looks could kill.

I went to Newcastle to attend a meeting of a newly formed group to continue the work carried out by the University before it had its funding pulled. After a recap of what we had all being doing in the meanwhile.

Then we got down to business. We discussed the older person and new technologies and after a meaningful discussion it appears that older people can cope with most new things new, but have a dislike to internet banking and appear to distrust computers in general.

I had the good fortune to have been invited to attend the Coastal View annual awards ceremony and it was a joy to behold the whole proceedings. Each of the winners was all shocked and surprised to have gained an award. The company was also of a high standard.

The most amazing thing was the number of awards given to a truly wide range of volunteers from across the area. Truly awesome.

It was very pleasing to see the number of people who attended the laying of the time capsule at the War Memorial. The crowd listened quietly as the story of, and the reason for, the capsule unfolded. In the sunshine the refurbished Memorial looked well in front of the people.

The next day was even better. The Church was well attended and the weather kind. The parade was healthy apart from me who was out marched by a bunch of rainbows. I had no chance of finding any pots of gold.

Finally, I have saved the very best to last. I was puzzled to see sheets of white paper stuck on the outside of a shop in Station Street. The next day all was revealed for all to see. Please have a look. It‘s things like this that make Saltburn-by-the-Sea so special to live, play and work here.

Jim Wingham and Spud

Barry Cook Barry Cook was a very generous, caring and kind man who will be missed by all his family and friends. Barry was a much-loved brother, cousin and a dear friend.

Barry was born in Hackbridge, Surrey on the 23rd of August 1953 – the son of parents John and Dora.

Eventually, the family moved to Wallington where younger sister Sue was born to complete the family. Now requiring a bit more space the family moved to a bigger 3bed place at Beddington which served as the family home for many years and where many happy memories were made.

From being a young boy, Barry had dreamed about becoming a motor mechanic when he became old enough, so, after leaving school, young Barry set about realising his dream. To begin with, he took a job as a trainee where he was employed as a ‗gopher‘ at a coach company on Stafford Road in Wallington. Alongside being told to ‗go for this and go for that‘ he picked one or two things up. And from there, he moved on to a garage at Cheam in Surrey where he progressed from being a trainee motor mechanic into being the head mechanic and passing his city and guilds exams.

His potential was then put to full use when Barry was employed as a manager of another garage but despite having done well, Barry had a fascination with joining the AA and working as one of their team of mobile mechanics. So when they advertised for patrols staff, Barry duly applied and landed one of the jobs, much to his delight.

He was as ‗proud as punch‘ to officially start working for the AA on the 7th of April 1975 when he was just 21. His annual salary was £1,748 paid weekly (in arrears).

It was a job that Barry absolutely loved and he kept those letters of commendation which he was overjoyed to receive from satisfied customers. Sadly, Barry‘s Dad (John) had passed away the year before and never got to know that his son joined the AA but he would have been very proud to know that his son was doing well and doing something he was born to do. Barry loved every minute of it, even when he was on the hard shoulder on the infamous M25 and with the rain coming down and the risks around him. His long career and his loyal association with the organisation was recognised with his awards for reaching 20 years, 25 years and then 30 years with them.

Over those years, Barry worked as part of group of colleagues covering our road network and he was very well thought of by the people he served alongside. As someone who knew what he was doing under the bonnet, and as a man who would help anybody if he could, Barry often did favours for friends when their cars were playing up and Sue didn‘t have to pay for a car repair for years and years thanks to her big brother! But it wasn‘t just favours with cars for whatever he could do for you, Barry would gladly do it.

Barry and Sue‘s mum Dora (who had been born and brought up on Montrose Street in Saltburn) announced that she was moving ‗back home‘ following retirement and Barry and Sue looked at each other and said ―not without us you‘re not,‖ and that was that. They all got their respective places to live in Saltburn and a new chapter in their lives began.

Barry was very happy in Saltburn. He became a wellknown and well-liked face around town. His main watering hole was the Marine but he also joined Lune St Club where he became a life-long member. Barry also went up to the Cricket Club to socialise with friends in there too. As a man who was very easy to get along with, Barry soon made people feel as though they were old friends and he could

strike up a conversation with anyone.

As well as socialising, Barry‘s true passion was trains.

His favourites being steam trains and diesel locomotives.

When he found out where they were running, he would drop everything and he and Sue would head over to wherever they were just to see them in action. They would also look at steam trains and perhaps 4 or 5 times a year, they would cross to see the majesty of the North Yorks Moors Railway and have the privilege of riding on the Flying Scotsman on that line. In fact, if ever Barry was sent over that way on a job with work, you could bet your last pound that he would have his lunch on the railway!

Sadly, he had to retire around about 2007 from the job he loved due to ill health. The other keen interest in Barry‘s life was cars. He was car-mad as well as potty about trains.

Anyone who has had the pleasure of being in his flat, after appreciating the magnificent views from his kitchen and lounge, would also have noticed part of his beautiful collection of boxed model cars (some of which were limited edition) and he had about another 1500 or so up in the loft.

He liked to take photographs and his flat contained many pictures of Saltburn and different types of rare and vintage cars and vehicles that were parked around the town which interested him, and he would get himself involved with ‗Victorian week‘. As beautiful as Saltburn is, for a spot of guaranteed sunshine, Barry used to go on holiday to Turkey and for 20 years or so he stayed in the same place and always enjoyed those little breaks away with his partner Bunny.

No matter where he was in this country or in the world, Barry had to find a train and this was the case when he was in the former Yugoslavia with Sue and they incorporated a train ride as part of their holiday.

Although Barry was only 65, he had been a poorly man for quite some time. He had his first heart-attack when he was only 37 but this didn‘t stop him working and indulging himself in his hobbies and his social life.

But in recent times, he didn‘t have it easy and things were not going to get better sadly and for a man who enjoyed popping out and socialising with the good people of Saltburn as much Barry did this was hard.

He was a good man who won‘t be forgotten.

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The Saltburn Crossword no 210 set by Warlock Dinosaur apologises for the rather embarrassing spelling mistake in last month‘s crossword. Of course he knows that it should have been Alexandra Hotel!

Across 1 Loves a little Labrador, especially (6) 4 Is calmer when seeing such wonders (8) 9 Bulletin carelessly pasted to front of church (8) 10 A selection from menu, that choice bird (8) 11 Confused Niven, conservative, makes list of a collection (9) 12 Dressing makes group look older (7) 14 Famous jazz trumpeter with stomach upset (7) 16 Poetry after college comprises everything known (8) 18 Popular stringed instruments initially United Kingdom‘s usual last entry lost every season (8) 19 Cast in a devilish mode (7) 21 Strobe out after learner for seafood creature (7) 22 Pantomime heroine, now this? We are wrong (4, 5) 25 A lilac jug, missing top, represents third Roman Emperor (8) 26 Finish with employment involving excessive toil (8) 27 Showing no mercy in describing incomplete Old Testament (8) 28 One threatened with it may go into it (6)

Down Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ ________________________________________ Telephone_______________________________

1 Pantomime where a lot of noise follows a boy (7) 2 Pink sitter mulls around character of a Grimm fairy tale (15) 3 Music group of suspect texts going around Europe (6) 4 Hero got some out for this pantomime (6, 5) 5 Resin used by Santa for sleigh controls? (5) 6 Deny the agreement around I‘d broken (10) 7 Gamble on Hydrogen, followed by the French border town near Jerusalem (9) 8 Song by Elton John stirring with end lanced in (6, 2, 3, 4) 13 Bus stop is no place for a pantomime cat (4, 2, 5) 15 Messiah‘s chorus of praise at first hearing and lifting loud every last universal joy at heart (10) 17 News promotion for a local Roman fifty-one before the financial sector (9) 20 Observe the monarch looking for something (7) 23 Drunk threw a garland put up at Christmas (6) 24 State becomes a great Saltburn tea and coffee house (5)

Solution to Crossword no 209

Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 210, c/o Jackie‘s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ

by Friday, 14th December 2018. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Tim and Sheila of Real Meals.

The winner of last month‘s crossword was Lesley Curwen of Hazelgrove Park, Saltburn.

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