Talk of the Town July 2019

SALTBURN’S TOWN TALK

Letter from the Editor

I am always willing to provide space for those wanting publicity for worthy causes or important campaigns. There is no shortage of need in this, the fifth richest country in the world. Obviously there is a great shortage of equality, with half of England owned by 1% of the population. The riches are not distributed fairly. I‟m sure that when I was younger the United Kingdom was not the fifth richest country and yet there was no need for food banks, at least none that I can remember. I don‟t remember news reports about misbehaving charities either. Perhaps, like other scandals, they simply weren‟t reported. I do remember, however, a term being introduced, perhaps in the 1980s, that is as relevant now as it was then, and that is „compassion fatigue‟ where people begin to not care anymore because they have heard too often about the suffering of others and as an act of self-preservation they turn off their consciences.

I have a computer but I can‟t sit in front of it for hours on end because actually it is very boring and I would prefer to read my book or play the piano or go outside and walk the dog. I prefer to have real friends rather than virtual ones. I‟ve always enjoyed science fiction and sometimes I find myself thinking that of all the intelligent species in the galaxy, mankind was the only one that was so stupid, it invented computers! However, I defy anyone who thinks that I must be out of touch with the modern world simply because I don‟t

like computers. I have no interest in the latest nasty little gadget or some daft so called „app‟ for me to download and waste my time with, but that makes me not so much out of touch but rather someone who continues to think for himself. I don‟t think a computer defines what sort of human being I am. I noticed on the BBC news that computers might even decide what fashions we will be wearing! Why should we do this? It‟s madness to lose the ability to make decisions. What future is there for our brains if we let machines do all our thinking for us? We will soon lose the ability to learn anything new!

I know I am not alone in despairing of the modern world and all its absurdities. I think it‟s our duty to question everything and not believe a word of the lies that are constantly being put out in the media. I listen to wiser people than me but I have to think for myself. We believe in „progress‟ but that is change for improvement, for making things better, not worse. We don‟t have to accept that this is the way things have to be. Why should we? And we certainly don‟t have to accept that every crass development plan for spoiling Saltburn will be a good thing. I will always provide space for articles that say otherwise. Love, Ian

Send letters, adverts and contributions for the next issue (by Friday, 19th July 2019) to: The Editor, Talk of the Town c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, Cleveland, TS12 1AQ. Telephone: 01287 623903 (or email: talkofthetownsaltburn@gmail.com).

Random Stitchers of Cleveland (Embroiderers‟ Guild) are in Saltburn Library this month on 12th June at 2.00pm. See Library article on page 10 for further details.

Saltburn Farmers’ Market and Food Festival: It‟s never been so tasty in Saltburn! With award winning traders at our Farmers‟ Market on Saturday 13th and the amazing Saltburn Food Festival on Sunday 28th July there is no excuse not to try something new! See article on page 37.

Saltburn Studios and Gallery: Our current show is Intertidal, a celebration of our coastline by Jane Riley. An exhibition of woven tapestry and ceramics. It runs until 21st July. Then we have a Studio Artists group show entitled „Earth‟ beginning on Saturday, 27th July with Open Studios. Our Gallery is open weekends 12-4pm. See article page 44.

Emmanuel Church Hall Table Top and Collectors’ Sale: We will be back for our normal sales on 6th and 20th July then 3rd and 17th August. We are really taking off as we are using all three rooms and it‟s really busy. It‟s nice that we have a lot of people just wanting a clear out. In this sale we are using three rooms full of stall holders and we have also let some charity people in like Friends of Redcar Cemetery, different church groups, cancer charities and more. It‟s helping a lot of people, We are looking forward to seeing you all again and thank you all for your support. We are also doing our usual lunches and all day breakfast, fresh home baked cake, pies and scones. Home made refreshments and light lunches are on sale all day. FREE ENTRANCE and a warm welcome to everyone. With over 26 stall holders, selling lots of bric-a-brac, books, toys, baby goods, and all sorts of collectables, there is something for everyone. Contact Denise Marshall on 07929 589538.

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

Craft Club Busy Fingers: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, 1.30 till 3.30pm in the Coffee Room, Saltburn Community Centre.

Saltburn Traditional Music Workshops: The meeting dates for Saltburn Traditional Music Workshops are Friday July 12th and Friday July 26th in the Coffee Room at Saltburn Community Hall from 2pm to 4pm.. Do come and join us if you are interested in playing Traditional tunes of the British Isles. Please contact Angie on 01287 205153 if you would like more information.

WI Report: Two of our members attended the National AGM in Bournemouth on 5th June. There, 4000 members across England and Wales voted overwhelmingly in favour of the two resolutions - „Decline in local bus services‟ and „Don‟t fear the smear‟. We start campaigning now. At home, we welcomed Phil Philo to our meeting where we learnt of three battles in Tees Valley in his interesting talk „the first great civil war, 1642-1646‟. We keep active by walking every Friday morning; sadly walking netball has finished for the summer but will be back in September. We love food - supper club at Coco & Rum, supper at the book club and food tasting. WI events are all calorie free! Come along and see what we get up to. Saltburn Learning Campus, 7pm on the second Thursday in the month. You‟ll always get a warm welcome.

www.saltburnbytheseawi.wordpress.com

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

Cover Photograph: Water Meadow by Heather Lofthouse

Saltburn-by-the-Sea viewed from the air in 1997

In 1997 Ken Bowers, a founder member of Saltburn Photographic Society, was fortunate to be offered a helicopter flight over the local area. We are pleased to share these images with readers of Talk of the Town.

Saltburn Station Gallery

The Gallery is now exhibiting a special commissioned painting by the owner, Sean Halcrow, coinciding with the celebrations of Gisborough Priory‟s 900th anniversary this year. This year has already seen the 150th anniversary of Saltburn Pier, another commissioned painting by Sean is on display from the Pier‟s anniversary, both serve as a lovely reminder of the area‟s rich history and attractions. Limited edition prints of both artworks will be available soon.

The Gallery is looking forward to the year‟s big event of Saltburn Food Festival; look out for demonstrations on the day by artisans outside the gallery premises.

Cath and Tony Lynn

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

Every Wed. Library 4-5pm Cllr. Craig Hannaway

2nd Sat. Library 10am-12 Noon Cllr. Philip Thomson

3rd Sat. Outside Sainsbury‟s Cllr. Stuart Smith 9.30 -10.30am and 11.30 -12 Noon

4th Sat. Library 11-12 All Councillors

Cllr. Hannaway: 07787 880613. Cllr. Smith: 07557 540628. Cllr. Thomson: 01287 624883.

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

MONDAY 8.00pm Ladies Meeting

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

WEDNESDAY 10.00am Mid week Worship

THURSDAY 10.00am Mums & Toddler 2.30pm fortnightly - Ladies Meeting

COFFEE MORNINGS: WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY AT 10.00am

WE ARE OPEN FROM 10.00am - 12 NOON MONDAY, TUESDAY , THURSDAY, FRIDAY DO COME AND HAVE A CHAT AND A CUPPA

For Hire of rooms ring 01287 623145

Saltburn Scarecrow

Victorian Birthday Festival

This festival of fun runs from 12-18th August and celebrating Queen Victoria and Prince Albert 200th birthdays and our very own pier being 150, we would like to celebrate any other BIG birthdays in Saltburn - let us know any other club, association or person who is making it big this year.

We would like as many scarecrows as possible throughout the town; you are welcome to do any specific Victorian or just a general person or scene - we leave it to your imagination! Maybe research and see who lived during Victorian times in your house/shop/building or land where you are now.

You do not need any planning permission but please be safe. No scarecrows blocking pavements etc and they must be secure if up high. They are your responsibility. We advise they are brought in at night to prevent vandalism.

If you live in an area that is a little off the main route through Saltburn and still want to make a scarecrow – do not despair – there are plenty of areas such as the top prom and the valley gardens that need a scarecrow or two and may need you, (they will have a sign on with your name, if you wish too). Check with us where spaces need to be filled.

During that week there will be a trail to encourage people to look at all the scarecrows and answer questions. Suggested minimum donation of a £1 a go for the trail map which also includes 1 free raffle ticket. All monies raised goes to the Saltburn Christmas Lights. The winner of this will be drawn during The Mad Hatters Tea Party at the Community Centre 12-4 with Tombola, games, entertainment etc on Sunday 18th August. Everyone Is Invited.

We have a drop in at Toc H, off Albion Terrace every Monday from 1.30-3 for ideas about materials and building scarecrows etc if you want to come along. Our local recycling company GREENOLOGY are donating plastic materials to help anyone who needs it to make their scarecrow – just let us know if you need materials.

We are here to help with any queries or scarecrow building you might get stuck with. Any questions about anything please ask.

We are on instagram and Facebook with pictures and this will keep being updated as we build more and more – visit saltburnscarecrows or email us with queries (or to register at saltburnscarecrows@gmail.com).

Hazel Magic – Summer events for children

The woods are magical places for children. Places to stir the imagination and get creative. As part of its Ancient Hazel Project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Saltburn Valleys CIO are pleased to announce two forthcoming summer events aimed at family fun in the woods for young families. These events, delivered by the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, will explore myths and legends linked to some important trees from our local woodlands such as the magical hazel. Children will be able to create some magic of their own by making wishing sticks and woodland crowns! All children must be accompanied by an adult and booking is required. Venue: Saltburn Valley Gardens Woodland Centre. Dates: Thursday 25th July and Thursday 22nd August 1.00pm to 4,00pm. Suitable for young families. Wear clothing suitable for the conditions and being outdoors. To book a place please call 01287 636382 or email info@teeswildlife.org.

Photo by Tom Marshall

RealMeals RealMeals

Purveyors of Fine Foods

Real Meals will be BBQ’ ing all the way at Saltburn Food Festival. Meanwhile pop in for amazing BBQ extras:- sauces, marinades, sticky pickles and honey dressings.

Life should never be dull!

Call Real Meals on 01287 622266

25 Milton Street, Saltburn

Open 7 Days a Week

New email address: realmeals.uk@gmail.com

Councillors’ Column

The apparent relentless expansion of Saltburn continues. Outline planning permission for up to 30 houses on Marske Road has been agreed after little deliberation. Ribbon of development suggested as unlikely has now come to pass and the 30mph signs will be moved on yet again.

In the East more rural heritage is under threat. Over 400 objections have been raised but if the planning committee discussion reflects the one held last month then the views of residents may carry little weight.

Developments of a welcome nature have finally been put into practice. After 12 years of lobbying a safe crossing of Windsor Road will be possible at Princes Road. If the raised nature incorporated into the design of the new crossing proves successful then this principle may be extended to the three other crossings on the main thoroughfare through the town, thus acting as much needed speed deterrents to many vehicles whose owners show little regard for road safety.

Access to the slipway at the Ship Inn will now be limited to authorised users, which will be emergency services and those justifying the need to take vehicles on to the beach. Application for access can made to R&C.

The next meeting of the Saltburn Neighbourhood Action Partnership is on Wednesday the 17th at 6pm in the Library. A wide range of issues have been raised from the floor at recent meetings as this forum has continued to provide residents with an opportunity to raise matters which directly affect their lives in the town. One specific request

that will be considered is to increase the frequency of meeting from three months to two.

The recent national government announcement to seek a net zero carbon emission by 2050 will have to work hard to catch up with Redcar & Cleveland‟s target of a carbon neutral environment by 2030. Whatever targets are being set every resident needs to be aware of a responsibility in sharing that goal and contributing to its attainment.

The demise of the Zip Wire on the valley bottom resulted from too much wear and tear. This popular feature, although sited in a controversial spot, will feature in a discussion on all recreational facilities in the Valley Gardens.

With the Lower promenade regaining its popularity for visitors the combination of cyclists and promenaders has raised the question as to whether this should be promoted as a preferred route for the National Cycle Network.

A series of surveys are shortly to be undertaken on the Donkey Path from Marine Parade to better understand current usage. This work will be conducted by volunteers and anyone wishing to help can apply to the Saltburn Valleys CIO to become involved.

The Council, in conjunction with relevant partners, has created a Care Academy. The Academy is designed to address a shortage in skilled Care Workers. Training is provided at no cost to the student. The next course starts on the 5th August, with guaranteed job interviews on successful completion. Enquiries to 01642 865561.

Philip Thomson

‘The Sword in the Stone’ to be found in Saltburn

MILES, HUTCHINSON & LITHGOW SOLICITORS

Conveyancing (Domestic and Commercial)

(Free written quotation on request)

Property Leases

Probate and Wills

Divorce and related Property and Financial Issues

Children Disputes

Barking up the Right Tree Theatre returns this summer with another wild and wonderful pantomime, „The Sword in the Stone‟. Following their success with performances of „Red Riding Hood‟, „Sleeping Beauty‟ and many more this will be their 6th visit to Saltburn, now in a new and bigger venue, Emmanuel Church Hall.

Barking up the Right Tree Theatre has great joy for a good old pantomime…with a twist in the tale. They combine an original blend of traditional panto mixed with fast-paced, crazy fun for the whole family to enjoy together, making happy memories.

This prequel to the show „Merlin‟ is full to the brim of kings, knights, wizards, sword fights and silliness. We follow the story of Arthur, still a Prince and desperate to live up to his father‟s high expectations and the cocky newly trained wizard, Merlin. Their new friendship may be the final straw for Morgana, turning a clever young witch into an evil villain and a threat to all of Camelot. Arthur must find Excalibur, the legendary sword with powers untold, yield its power and become the rightful future King of England only then can he protect Camelot from all evil. On their wild adventure the duo meet whimsical characters, encounter challenging obstacles and have a whole lot of fun. Will Arthur find Excalibur? Will Merlin master his magic? Will Morgana, Guinevere and Clump ever appear on stage at the same time? All will be revealed.

The performance will take place on Sunday, 25th August at Emmanuel Church Hall. Doors open at 2pm for a 2:30pm start. Tickets costs £8 adults, £5 for children and seniors and are available now from Holly Blue Cards and Gifts, 45 Milton Street, Saltburn or through PayPal by contacting 07479 252044. Don‟t forget to collect a children‟s colouring competition poster alongside your tickets and bring entries along to the show for the chance to win a prize.

Other performances include: Guisborough Methodist Church Hall – Saturday 10th August, 1:30pm; Stokesley Town Hall – Sunday 11th August, 1:30pm; Picture House, Billingham

Saturday 24th August, 2:30pm.

Watch out for the cast of the show this July at Saltburn‟s extraordinary food festival! The company will be returning again this December with their own spectacular version of „Aladdin‟.

For more information contact 07479 252044 or follow us on social media.

Immigration, including Visas, Leave to Remain

Naturalisation, Passport applications and EEA

Applications

Powers of Attorney Deputyships

Civil and Criminal Litigation

Tel: 01287 623049

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

Also at 68/70 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH Tel: 01642 242698

e-mail mileshutch@aol.com for enquiries at both offices.

Help! Your local Playgroup needs you!

LittleNippersisindesperateneedof willing volunteers to helpout onMondayandWednesdaymornings, either inthekitchenorinthegroup. Weneedpeopleto help set upandput away. If you canhelp, evenif it isonly forafew hourseachmonth,we wouldloveto hear from you. So,if you lovespending timewithyoung children, painting,glueing,singing, making music orreading stories,orevensimplymaking drinks,then please contact LittleNippersPlaygroupon 01287 624575

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

Christina Simpson

Bespoke

Hand-Made

Paintings

The Last Straw

After three generations of ownership and thousands of enthusiastic users the Riding Stables at Saltburn are to be closed. The stables and associated buildings, including the iconic indoor arena are to be demolished.

In their place will be constructed residential properties. This construction will further extend the ribbon development of Saltburn bringing residential accommodation even nearer to Marske.

A previous application to build out all of the land including the paddocks to the South was rejected and after appeal turned down.

The latest officer recommended outline application was accepted after a brief discussion at the recent Redcar & Cleveland planning committee.

The applicant advised members that the riding stables could not be kept going as it was not able to afford the cost of hay.

Little discussion was subsequently held after members were advised that if this application went again to appeal it may not succeed and could result in Redcar & Cleveland being liable to appeal costs.

A sad day for Saltburn and all those who have enjoyed this venue since the original move from the stables at the Zetland Hotel.

Philip Thomson

Saltburn Photographic Society

Monthly evening outings in the summer are July: Locke Park and August: Coatham Sands. Tuition is available on all outings by request. Non-members are welcome to join ussee contact below. A selection of members‟ work is on display in Saltburn Library.

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

Join the Dots

As a resident of Saltburn I must say that the new markings on the lower prom are a blessing. Allowing the chalet users to know the limits, and to allow space for passers by without impeding each other‟s enjoyment.

Already we have seen some smashing weather, with lots of visitors enjoying the town and beach. The regular group litter picking forays have no doubt helped the Environment Agency‟s water testing being done over the summer months.

Congratulations must also be made to our new councillors who it is hoped will do the very best for our town. Cllr. Craig Hannaway has been duly elected to the Borough‟s Planning Committee, which is now chaired by Cllr. Stuart Smith. Well done!

With the footbridge over the Saltburn Gill finally being installed behind the pumping station at Cat Nab we are nearly back up to the pre-2013 floods condition so let us hope that further much needed improvements come our way in the future.

With Saltburn featuring highly in the recent Which Guide to Best Seaside Town this is continuing to look like a great place to live and visit.

Belinda Jones

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

Kevin had messed up. When a friend offered him cannabis he thought he had nothing to lose. Needing a fix of light-headedness to relieve the stress of adolescence the long term risk of psychosis was far from his thoughts. The experiment became a risky habit. He was caught smoking weed at school. The result: permanent exclusion, just months away from GCSE exams. Reality hit home. Suddenly the future looked bleak. All Kevin’s regrets couldn’t turn back the clock. His mother started the appeal process. The head teacher had some sympathy for the lad, but he needed to give a clear signal to others. On the eve of the hearing he phoned the head teacher of a school some miles away. Could he offer Kevin a fresh start to halt the exclusion process and salvage his future?

Changing school wasn’t easy for Kevin. He knew nobody. Some of the courses were different, and he wasn’t especially academic. At first he struggled to stick to rules. But he settled. He began to thrive. He made a fair stab at his exams and collected a modest crop of grades. But on results day in August there was no sign of Kevin. Then after everyone had dispersed, just as the head teacher prepared to lock up and leave, he spotted a lone figure walking down the school drive to discover results that would secure his place at College. “Kevin, well done lad!” “Thanks, sir. Goodbye – and thanks for giving me a second chance.”

(A true story, but not local, and name changed.) We all mess up, but God doesn’t write us off. “Everyone has sinned and is far away from God’s saving presence. But by the free gift of God’s grace all are put right with Him through Christ Jesus, who sets them free.” (Romans 3:23-24)

Saltburn Charity Crafters

Saltburn Charity Crafters will be meeting on Wednesday 3rd July in the Coffee Room at the Community Hall from 2pm to 4pm. Do drop in for a cuppa and find out what we are doing at the moment. Further information from Angie on 01287 205153. We look forward to seeing you.

SOS - Save Our Saltburn

As many of you are now aware, the proposal for the caravan and camping park overlooking Cat Nab is nearing the very last stage of the planning application process. The Redcar & Cleveland Borough Regulatory Committee will evaluate the application in the forthcoming few weeks. We would hope that the committee of newly elected councillors will give their utmost attention and time to review the comments made by the many who voiced their concern for the future outlook of the town and its neighbouring wildlife areas. Since our public meeting held at The Spa Hotel on Monday 13th May, over 410 formal objections were lodged against this development, with only about 11 in support. Thanks go to those who attended and submitted their comments.

We have been busy behind the scenes in studying the situation and considering our next steps. In the meantime we have been collecting a petition with the intention of showing the true scale of feeling against the caravan park development, over and above the formal planning objections. There are well over 1,000 signatures

already gathered, but more are needed. Petitions are available to sign in the following locations around the town: Boots the Chemist, Jackie‟s Saverstore, Cheveux, Saltburn Hardware, Chocolinis, Gosnay‟s Butchers, Milo‟s Café Bar and Brockley Hall Hotel.

Please do take the short time to sign the petition if you feel that the scale and type of caravan park proposed is out of keeping with what the town and its visitors have come to expect and enjoy. The petition will show those who hold the town‟s future in their hands the extent of the opposition.

Thanks once again to our supporters, and those who made generous donations at the public meeting, without which we would not be able to publicise this major issue. Something that we felt had purposefully gone under the RADAR of many in the town.

More information can be found on the Save our Saltburn Facebook group. Or if you have specific queries then please email us (at save.our.saltburn@gmail.com).

Thank you.

Letter to the Editor

We have all been made aware of residents‟ objections to the proposed caravan and camping park.

We would like to put forward some counter arguments for your consideration.

First we have established to the best of our ability that there would be no unsightly view from the town itself or from the lower promenade area.

Secondly we believe that it will be a simple matter for traffic, particularly towing vehicles, to be directed to the site from the opposite direction to the town - clearly we do not want towing traffic using Saltburn Bank.

Thirdly it is to be assumed that the users of the site will primarily shop at Asda and its surrounding outlets rather than drive into Saltburn: we appreciate both that the road down is liable to congestion and also that there is already a parking issue in Saltburn. Presumably many holiday makers will walk down to the beach and promenade facilities by means of the new proposed footpath.

Finally the benefits of this plan to local businesses must surely be obvious and in conclusion we also feel it wrong to deny families the right to an inexpensive holiday in our beautiful town.

Djenane Watkins

Geoff Watkins Graham Cottam

Saltburn Library News

Summer Diary Dates:

4th July Adult Clay Workshop, 11.30-13:00, (£9 per person) Booking essential. Session for adults that want to experiment and explore art via the sculptural medium of air dried clay. Learn how to create a tile and other small samples of 3D objects.

12th July Health Checks available from 10:00 onwards. Please contact the library on 01287 623584 to book an appointment time.

24th July ‘Fossil Frenzy’ 13:00-15:00 (£1 per child) Booking essential. Fun, interactive session exploring the interesting subject of fossils, including information on what to look for and where to look locally.

31st July Reading Group 10:30-12:00. New members welcome.

31st July Tees Wildlife Trust Animal Crafts 13:0014:00.

5th August Marko’s Circus Workshop 13:00-14:00 Event launch of 2019 Summer Reading Challenge.

8th August ‘Mighty Miners’ 13:00-15:00 (£1 per child) Booking essential. Fun, interactive session for children to learn about the history of mining in the local area, etc.

9th August Health Checks available from 10:00 onwards

Please contact the library on 01287 623584 to book an appointment time.

19th August Teddy Bears Picnic 13:00-14:00 Come and join us in Saltburn‟s garden for a picnic and story, and feel free to bring along your teddy!

28th August ‘Pirates Day’ 13:00-14:00 Face Painting & Crafts.

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

Kelly Rose

The Jungle Book

As the sun rises on another (hopefully) sunny summer in Saltburn, the Saltburn ‟53 Youth Group are sinking their teeth into a stage adaptation of Rudyard Kipling‟s The Jungle Book.

It‟s a little bit different from the Disney version we all know and love. This production will take you on Mowgli‟s journey as he tries to find his place in the world and battles with his enemy and greatest fear, Shere Khan. Join Baloo, Bagheera and the wolf pack as we help Mowgli on his way.

Just make sure you don‟t get hypnotised by the great Kaa‟s dance or get caught by the claws of Shere Khan.

Saltburn Folk Club

This month Saltburn gets to see and hear the folk club play as we take to Saltburn bandstand on Saturday 20th of July between 2.30 and 4.00pm. Come along and have a listen or as a prelude local Ukulele legend Martin Stephenson can be seen on Monday 8th of July as our hotspot guest at the Marine Hotel from 8.00pm. Otherwise bring your instrument of choice and your favourite song to the Marine on a Monday and share your music with us. Folk music is not a genre, it‟s an activity.

Guy Cuthbert

Saltburn in Bloom

Well, to quote Flanders and Swann (showing my age here) “June just rains and never stops, thirty days and spoils the crops”. I notice all the rain we‟ve had hasn‟t spoiled the weeds though, they just keep on giving. However, the happy band that is the Saltburn in Bloom gardening team can‟t give up. We all want Saltburn to look as lovely as it can this summer for all of us to enjoy.

Northumbria in Bloom summer judging is on 24th July and Britain in Bloom judges are coming on 1st August (bin day, we tried to change the date but it wasn‟t possible). If you are a resident/shop/business along the route, we are aiming to get a letter to you asking whether you would mind having a tidy up outside the front of your premises. We know it‟s not your job but it would be lovely if you could pull out any weeds, take a dustpan and brush to those cigarette ends or anything you might be prepared to do.

On another note, we have been experimenting with a few of the Amberol planters on Marine Parade. The ones near the Anchor bed were originally covered with chicken wire and now knitted flowers have been added. We also intend to try trailing plants again and see whether the chicken wire gives them something to attach to. We are looking out for other ideas too and thought maybe some of the “nice” things that are collected during Beach Watch or KICAS sessions could be wired onto the mesh to give a beachcombing effect. We wondered too, whether it would be possible to do something with sticky backed plastic but are not sure about that yet. If anyone has any good ideas, let us know through facebook, saltburn.in.bloom @gmail.com or put a message in the sponsorship letterbox in the library; we‟d love fresh ideas.

At the time of writing we are experimenting with a new look menu at the Saturday table top sale. We know many of you like the traditional fare but we have tried some new additions such as a vegan curry, vegan smoothies and chocolate cake and hummus and salad sandwich fillings. Our next table top is on 13th July so, if you are having lunch out, come and try us in the community theatre at Saltburn Community and Arts Association.

A quick P.S. Saltburn Allotment Association has access to pallets. If anyone needs any, especially if you have an allotment, their shop is open on Sunday mornings between 10.00 and 11.30am where someone will talk to you.

Keep blooming, Sue

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

Gisborough Priory’s Medieval Pageant

Gisborough Priory Project held its biggest event of the year on Saturday, 15th June 2019. The Medieval Pageant was a free event run by the volunteers of the Gisborough Priory Project. With over 1500 visitors it was a great day out for all the family with activities, displays and demonstrations throughout the historic priory site and the adjacent woodland gardens. The sale of refreshments, the tombola stall and donations raised a fantastic £1681.20.

The centrepiece of the day was the Red Wyverns Medieval Re-Enactment Group who set up their encampment in front of the East Window and brought the past to life with scenes from the life and times of folk from the medieval period. They demonstrated how a medieval soldier donned his armour, gave a combat display and invited the younger visitors (and some not so young) to join in the Knight School. The Blacksmith was also hard at work repairing armour and, for those who wanted to hear about some of the gorier details of medieval life, the Barber Surgeon was there with his gruesome array of instruments. Centre stage of the camp was the kitchen tent where the soldiers and other camp followers had their main meal.

The Falconry Days Birds of Prey brought along their truly stunning birds and there was an opportunity to see them in flight as well as on show throughout the event, and the fully trained and knowledgeable falconers were on hand to answer any questions. The Whitby Company of Archers were kept busy throughout the day. Thanks go to the archers whose ability, skill and patience brought a smile to the faces of lots of children and adults who were keen to have a go and were able, with their tuition, to hit the targets

The younger visitors were kept particularly busy in the craft tent making crowns, hats and swirly pennants which were then proudly worn and shown off for the rest of the day.

Demonstrations of Coracle making and woodland crafts including pole lathe tuning and green wood carving were held throughout the day. The jester, Cathy, showed off her juggling skills and the talented Evie, a student from Prior Pursglove College, played her guitar and kept everyone entertained during the day. The Exhibition Marquee proved to be quite a draw with displays by English Heritage, Guisborough Museum, Prior Pursglove College Museum and our very own Gisborough Priory Project. Also on display was a statue believed to be originally from the Priory which was kindly loaned to Gisborough Priory Project for the event by Mr Brian Lee, a Guisborough resident.

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

No event of this kind can take place without the help and support of both volunteers and sponsors. Thanks go to the bakers, the jam makers, the tombola prize givers and all who helped on the day and in the run up to the event. The three Sainsbury‟s stores in Guisborough have nominated Gisborough Priory Project as one of their charities to support as part of their 150th birthday. A big thank you goes to the staff who came along on Friday, to help with the setting up, and Saturday, to help with the event itself. Sponsorship from Weatherhead Construction, Tees Components, Councillor Bill Clarke and Companions of the Priory Chapter was gratefully received.

Saltburn Athletic FC

The Saltburn Athletic Football Gala day took place over the weekend of the 8th and 9th June involving teams from Teesside, North Yorks and Durham. A total of 48 teams played over the two days. Saturday‟s weather unfortunately didn‟t help and although the rain did keep off for a while the conditions were overcast and breezy at the start of the competition. All teams on the Saturday attended despite the weather and a great day of football took place from U8s to U12s competing.

The U8s section was won by Prissick Rovers when they beat Great Ayton. The Saltburn team did well and reached the semi final.

The U10s section was won by North Ormesby who beat our Saltburn team on penalties. Unlucky way to lose but they can take a lot of credit.

The U11s section was split into two sections. The first was for lower league teams and this featured our Seahawks team but unfortunately we were unable to get past the qualifying stage. The final was an all Middlesbrough Riverside FC affair with the whites beating the blues. The other section involving the higher league based teams involved the Sharks team who lost their semi final to eventual winners Deerness from Durham who beat Guisborough Lions on penalties.

The final section on Saturday involved our U12s team who did the club proud by winning the final against North Ormesby 2-0. This was after a nail biting semi when the U12s won on penalties.

Sunday involved only the under 14 age group but was split into two sections when the lower based Falcons did well to reach the semi finals after a tense last qualifying game which they had to win to get through to the semis. The final between North Ormesby and Linthorpe ended 1-1 and North Ormesby held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties.

The other section divided into two divisions for the higher based league teams meant our team the Dolphins having to play some very hard games and to their credit reached the semi finals but were unable to get over the line

as they lost. The final was easily won by Bishop Auckland St Marys Kings when they beat Hartlepool Golden Flatts 4-1. Sunday‟s weather could not be more different with sun and warmth.

On both days the Trophies and medals were presented by our club‟s patron Alan Smith and our thanks to Alan for doing this. Thanks to all teams and referees for their participation and to all spectators to have made this tournament a success yet again. Also a big thanks to Mike Gosnay whose butcher‟s shop provided all the bacon, sausages and burgers and to Sainsbury‟s of Saltburn for providing all the bread buns, cheese and water. D and G Trophies again supplied all cups and medals. Many thanks should be given to all those at the club including some parents who helped out from doing the weeding, pitch marking, grass clearing etc, to running the tuck shop and barbecue and not forgetting the Rotary Club members who ran the scorers tent and programme selling.

The club‟s coaches and committee should applaud themselves for a job well done and there will be another Gala Day next year.

Andy Croll, Club Secretary

Saltburn Rotary

Since our last article, we have held our Afternoon Tea Party in aid of Polio Eradication at Saltburn Cricket Club which this year raised a fantastic £600. As always, Microsoft‟s Bill Gates trebles every £1 raised, so our £600 becomes £1800 and at 50p per immunisation, that is 3,600 children saved from this terrible disease. Thank you to all those who attended, those who contributed in any way and to the Cricket Club for hosting us.

Club members also helped Saltburn Athletic over their 2 day Gala weekend which saw over a thousand people on the Huntcliff site each day, to watch 48 junior teams, aged 7 to 14, engage in sport. Rotarians maintained the scoreboard, served in the refreshment cabin, cooked on the barbecue and generally did everything and anything required of them to ensure a very successful weekend of fun and sport.

Coming up is our annual trip to Headingley to watch a T20 match and then full steam ahead for our Howzat music festival on Sunday, 1st September, There are again 7 magnificent bands and this year the proceeds will be donated to “Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team”. Our first fundraiser

was a Tombola at the Community Centre in June and we will be present at Saltburn Food Festival on 28th July, also to raise funds for the team. Tickets for the event can be purchased from Milo‟s or from Rotarian Harry Simpson. Further details can be found at www.howzatmusicfestival.co.uk or see pages Finally, the Rotary year, which starts on 1st July is coming to a close and sees our President Paul Chappell conclude his second spell in the chair. Paul has again led the club through another very successful year, which has included many events, not only raising thousands of pounds for worthy causes, but also the profile of the club throughout the UK and beyond. Well done Paul, and of course Elspeth, who have both worked tirelessly for the club and the community. And as a new year starts we are all very proud and excited that Paul will be handing over to Lou Foster, who will be our first female President in the club‟s 93 year history. More on that in the next issue.

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

Dave Sadler

The four founders of Saltburn Athletic FC when the club was set up in 1998. Left to right: Dave Sadler, Judith Ord, Andy Croll, Tim Raynes.

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).

Saltburn 500 Club

Congratulations go to Mr Pearson for winning the £100 First Prize in the June draw. I‟m like a lot of you - there are times when I wonder if my number is in the draw! However, I‟ve paid my subs and I am, therefore, guaranteed to have my number in there. If you‟ve paid your subs, then you‟ve got the same chance as me of winning.

The 2019 AGM appointed the following officials: P Nixon (Chairman), P Laughton (Treasurer), T Welburn (Secretary), P Walton (Members Secretary) and Committee Members W Reay, B Morris, H Lilleker, H McCreeth and P Thomson. P Laughton presented the accounts, which were accepted as a true record of the financial situation. Membership has fallen back to 398 so please consider joining and help to swell the ranks.

Unfortunately, my articles in Talk of the Town have ALWAYS carried the same message - we need more members and more money. However, this remains to be the position so I‟ll carry on banging the drum.

I have been applying to all corners of the country for funding towards the cost of the Christmas lights and, so far, my efforts have not been rewarded sufficiently enough to give me a break. However, I am heartened by a lot of the businesses in the town who have decided to help with various money-raising efforts on top of the financial backing they give each year. As a part of this, you will see orange collecting bottles in some of the businesses and any lose change you put in will go towards the £13,500 required for this year‟s Christmas illuminations and parade.

It is most gratifying to see that other people care about having the town lit up at Christmas and here are a few more events that have been organised: Ripping Yarns organised an event in the Methodist Hall, which was to support the knitted squares charity and also had a collection for the lights. Chris Ferguson, who used to run the group for visually impaired people, had a birthday gift of a wing

walk on June 23rd. Chris asked me if it would be okay to collect monies through a JustGiving page and put the proceeds towards the cost of the lights. A group of young ladies have organised a coffee morning in Saltburn Methodist Hall on Saturday 24th August - all proceeds going to the lights. Maria Beevers and her team have organised the scarecrow week from 12th to 18th August, culminating in an Alice‟s Tea Party in the Community Centre, all proceeds going to the lights. At the time of writing, I do not know how much will have been raised but please support those events that are yet to come. I think these initiatives are a clear indicator that we have got people in the town who CARE for the town and want to do their bit. A big thank you to you all. The Bandstand season is in full swing and it is good to see that they are being well supported. To date, there was one hitch which disrupted one performance and we have taken steps to try and eliminate the chances of that happening again. July performances are: 6th, Marske Junior Band; 7th, Northallerton Silver Band; 14th, Hurworth Concert Band; 20th, Folk Club; 21st, Billingham Silver Band; 27th New Horizon; 28th, Bear Park and Esh Colliery Band. Why not go along and enjoy the music!

On behalf of Saltburn 500 Club/Friends of Saltburn, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to ICL (Cleveland Potash Ltd), who have generously donated funding towards the cost of the work done to the Victorian statues at the bandstand and, also, donated towards the cost of replacing the cabling/sockets for the Christmas lights.

I hope you are keeping the sun tan lotion topped up now that we are in the summer months. However, at the time of writing, I‟m hoping the lotion is waterproof - at least the rain‟s warm!

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

D-Day Commemoration at Kirkleatham Museum

Saltburn & District Royal British Legion were asked by Kirkleatham Museum, to show the exhibition they have on D-Day and Stan Hollis (VC winner), on D-Day itself in the large pavilion they have there.

Derrick Previll (their Historical Advisor) was elated at the idea and with the support of his Branch, he exhibited a range of interactive displays that were enjoyed by lots of visitors from all over the area.

Visitors came in a steady flow all day, keeping the branch busy and Derrick enjoyed telling his stories of Stan Hollis VC and even got a surprise visit from Stan‟s granddaughter herself: Amanda Hart! She said she was very impressed with the displays and is supportive of the branch and their paradigm. See other article on page 42.

Kirkleatham Museum were also impressed by the branch‟s dedication and diligence to the veterans and fallen, and have asked for further projects in the future.

What’s Happening at Marske Hall

Talk: A Pictorial Journey along the River Tees, a talk by Mike Sidgwick. Marske Hall, Thursday 11th July. Doors open 1.30pm. Donations welcome and there will be refreshments.

Organisers welcome any additional winbola prizes. These can be left at the Hall on Redcar Road Marske, any time between 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday or can be donated on the day. Registered Charity No: 218186. For press interviews call Ruth Hebden 01642 482672. Marske Hall, Redcar Road, TS11 6AA.

Appeal: The fundraising team is always looking for tombola and raffle prizes to use at events throughout the year. Simply call into Marske Hall from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Visit www.facebook/marskehall.com. look out on Facebook for what‟s on in coming months or call the Hall number 01642 482672.

A Big thank you to everyone who supported our Family Fun Day last month. Look out for more family fun at the Hall.

Kath Bloomfield

Ten Years On and Still Singing Strong!

This Summer marks the 10 year anniversary of the Saltburn Songsters, a ladies only choir under the expert baton of one very brave man….Mr Dan Matuszak who is our Chairman and Musical Director.

Dan took over as Musical Director of the then „Halcyon Singers‟ in Saltburn back in 2007 which was a full voice (male and female) choir. Unfortunately, early in 2009, the committee decided that the „Halcyon Singers‟ would be no more and made the decision to close the group.

About a week later, 5 ladies, sat in the pub (they shall remain nameless!) were thinking, „wouldn‟t it be nice to start a new ladies only choir?‟ So one night, a call came through to Dan asking him to start a new singing group for ladies. He did just that and the „Saltburn Songsters‟ was born.

As the years progressed, the number of ladies joining slowly began to rise meaning the sound was getting a lot richer in our concerts. Currently, 10 years on, we have 36 members with an ever growing waiting list which is a fantastic achievement, especially when a lot of local choirs are bidding for the same members and audiences. These ladies truly are those that love to sing!

Over the years, the choir have sung for audiences in their thousands. From a cold snowy day at Whitby Abbey to a miniature railway train in Saltburn, you will find we will sing anywhere. Ideal for any event, live music (especially singers) will add that extra sparkle to your day. Christmas of 2017, we were lucky enough to receive the highest review possible from a very special man in a big red coat……yes that‟s right, Santa Claus himself said how much he enjoyed listening to the choir at Whinstone View in Great Ayton! He is extremely excited about singing with the ladies this coming Christmas at the same venue. We are available for bookings so if you would like a quote, please contact 07729 332258 (or email saltburnsongsters@outlook.com).

For the last 6 to 7 years, we have donated proceeds from our concerts to local and national charities. These include the RSPCA, Cancer Research UK, Butterwick Hospice, Daisy Chain, SARA and many more. Three years ago, we held a Summer Concert at Redcar Academy which was in aid of Help for Heroes. We were joined by the Silverwood Band for this magnificent concert as well as a special guest from Help for Heroes in Catterick Garrison, Mr Tony Boyd. Shortly after the concert, Dan went over to the centre on a guided tour and presented them with a cheque for just over £1400 on behalf of the choir. To date, we have donated in excess of £10,000 to charity. This is a tremendous achievement.

This year, our concert will be one NOT TO BE MISSED! We are holding our very special anniversary concert „Ten Years

On & Still Singing Strong‟ on Saturday, 13th July 2019 at 6:30pm (doors open at 6pm). It will be held at Emmanuel Church in Saltburn and tickets are £10 which includes cake and prosecco (soft drinks for the drivers and children). This concert will be our biggest one yet as we will be joined by a live orchestra and supported by full staging, lighting and sound.

Tickets can be bought from Guisborough Bookshop and also by ringing 07729 332258 (or emailing saltburnsongsters@outlook.com).

New members are more than welcome to go on our waiting list for a September 2019 start, please use the same contact details given above to register your interest.

Please come along and support this wonderful group of ladies who love to sing! Thank you!

Proceeds from the concert and the bucket collection will go to support Zoë‟s Place.

Bandleader loved Saltburn

Bandleader Gene Jarred, who has died aged 87, loved Saltburn so much that he decided in retirement to help the town by raising money for the community association.

Some 10 years ago he put on the first of a series of swing-music concerts to raise money. He got together a band of 20 or so musicians.

His last public event was to bring the Guisbrough swing band to the Glenside bandstand for a wellsupported session last summer, reported The Gazette.

Gene, who lived in retirement at a local block of apartments, leaves a wife Lily and daughters Jackie and Joanne. A well-attended funeral services was held at Saltburn‟s Emmanuel Church.

SALTBURN BLUES CLUB

Booking acts for the Club often happens as much as a year in advance, so it was fantastic to see that our band for July 27th, booked way back, became one of the most talked about bands of 2018. And now they‟ve been selected as contestants in the 2019 UK Blues Challenge. THE ACHIEVERS, one of the most original and exciting new bands in British Blues/Roots music, call their music „Dance Floor Gospel‟. It‟s four-part harmonies, joyful melodies and infectious dance rhythms. This 5-piece is absolutely blowing away audiences across the UK and Europe. Definitely a date for your diary.

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

It‟s unbelievable to think that the HOWZAT MUSIC FESTIVAL on September 1st is just two months away! So, a timely reminder that you can save £5 by buying earlybird tickets - £25. The price goes to £30 if bought on the day. There is a limit on ticket sales so early purchase is recommended to avoid disappointment. It‟s a fabulous lineup: Dan Burnett, The Houndcats, The Groove-a-matics, Two Blue Band, The John P Taylor Band, Straight Eight and THE glorious KYLA BROX (winners of the European Blues Challenge 2019). This is an indoor festival with every comfort catered for. The Cricket Club‟s Indoor Nets Hall converts to a superb venue for the event. The Blues, Rotary and Cricket Clubs join forces to bring about the festival. Funds raised will go to The Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team operational across The North York Moors. All details can be found at www.howzatmusicfestival.co.uk.

And finally, my radio show, Still Got The Blues, goes out on Zetland FM every Monday 7pm – 10pm, on line, or you can catch it later on Mixcloud. Visit the website, www.zetlandfm.co.uk and scroll down to Mixcloud. 3 hours of the very best of the blues. Harry

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.

July programme

5th July Seated keep fit with Taylor, Craft 1-4pm will be Sea shells. 1.15pm Cooking with Environment City.

12th July U3A Ukulele group, Craft1-4pm Sewing a tissue holder

19th July Drumming with Colin Craft 1-4pm Card making.

26th July Bowling and lunch (if pre-ordered) at Saltburn Bowls Club 10-12 followed by Craft 1-4pm Embroidery

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. Registered Charity No 1177967.

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

Cleveland Diving Club

Bad weather causing cancelled boat and shore dives during June has been very frustrating for our members. However, forever irrepressible there is a great determination to take full advantage of good weather conditions during the coming months. In particular members are keen to launch the club‟s rib-boat so that instructors can take our newly qualified divers to explore the striking and varied marine life along our local coastline.

Together with crustaceans, fish and molluscs that are easily identified there will be an abundance of organisms that they will find more challenging to identify. For example, one common species in our waters is the „Dahlia,‟ anemone (Urticina feline). It is also found in seas throughout Europe, Northern Russia and as far down as the Bay of Biscay, although not in the Mediterranean. Widespread, the Dahlia is a delight to see when diving as they come in all the colours of the rainbow (photo 1). It is easy to see why this marine specimen was named after the land based floral Dahlia. However, it is also considered to be a bit of a genetic oddball, presenting both animal and plant characteristics. A simple organism, it is made up of a squat, wart covered column with stout toxic defence and attack tentacles used to capture and cram unsuspecting prawns, small fish and even small crabs into its central mouth. However, the crab in photo 2 is a bit on the large size for this family of Dahlias. The Dahlia generally reproduces through male and female fertilisation; however, remarkably, it can split in two and create two anemones. Dahlias prefer to anchor themselves, either singularly or in groups, to boulders or within rocky crevices and sometimes rock pools, to make best use of the strong wave action that makes it difficult for its prey to escape. However, their size is dependent on food intake so they can, if they wish, relocate through using their tentacles to slide slowly along the sea floor.

In UK waters Dahlias can grow up to about 20cm across but there are other species of anemones that grow much larger. For example, photos 3 and 4 show two colourful, „Blunttentacle‟ anemones (Stichodactyla mertensii) nicknamed, „Mertens carpet,‟ these being found in the warmer Atlantic waters off the Canary Islands. Tip: although not dangerous to humans if stung, tentacles need to be removed carefully without breaking the spine.

Exploring the Earth‟s oceans and seas opens up a whole new world crowded with amazing and fascinating marine creatures. The only way of seeing some is to scuba dive. Interested? Then Cleveland Divers can be contacted via Facebook, „The Diving Club-Cleveland‟ or on 07960 608529.

June Coomber

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.

Take a Breath

When the subject of physical exercise is mentioned, most people think of activities that are used to increase flexibility or to build strength or to improve balance ability. These are things that Physiotherapists who treat musculoskeletal conditions use every day. However, there is one particular type of exercise which doesn‟t do any of these things and which is much undervalued and subsequently under used. This is the breathing exercise that is known as “diaphragmatic” or “belly breathing”.

Breathing exercises have been around for thousands of years, being a feature of rituals, traditions and meditation schemes in many cultures. Over recent years there has been a significant amount of research on the effects of relaxed breathing techniques on the body‟s physiology and also on mental states and brain function. Physiotherapists have used breathing exercises for decades when treating respiratory disorders, but over recent years these exercises have been found to be very helpful when treating pain conditions, particularly those that affect the back and the neck.

The effects of relaxed breathing are a reduction in muscle spasm and a dampening down of the autonomic nervous system. This is the part of the nervous system that becomes overactive in certain pain conditions, producing excessive amounts of stress related hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. An overactive autonomic nervous system makes the body more sensitive, and disrupts relaxed and efficient body movements and also disturbs sleep patterns. These factors then feed into a vicious cycle that can cause and perpetuate pain.

Sometimes the seemingly simple things can have profound effects and this is certainly the case with relaxed breathing exercises.

Philip & Pauline Newton Chartered & Health Care Professions Council

Registered Physiotherapists

Newton Physiotherapy 01287 767287

www.NewtonPhysio.com

Linda Hodgson

Meeting Mike Morrissey

When I met Talk of the Town reporter Mike Morrissey recently to talk about his retirement from the magazine I‟d had a challenging week. An interview I‟d spent a long time preparing for another paper had been rejected by the editor, and after wasting time on a good piece that‟ll never see daylight I needed this interview to work.

My plan was to use the same methods I‟d pursued with my previous subject, which was to record an openended conversation over the course of a leisurely afternoon that could be organised and condensed later. After my first exchanges with Mike, however, it was clear that he had other plans.

I arrived at Cafe Shanti, as planned, to find that it was closed for the week, and I did wonder if he knew this. I immediately went into a tailspin and phoned him, but just as I was doing so he arrived, with his bag-for-life slung delicately over his folded arm.

“They‟re closed”, I explained to Mike. “OK”, he offered, calmly, “We can lunch at my house; I have some leftover pasta”.

This was Mike‟s first lesson, intentional or otherwise: adapt quickly and refocus when your plans are subverted, as they invariably will be. Be like an athlete after a fall and use your adrenaline to speed your recovery; if you can, use this disruption as part of your story.

We entered his house via delicately glazed green double doors, untouched save for the armour of a century‟s worth of paint. His home, though modest, feels like a lot for one man to hold together, but he‟s doing fine. He led me into a roomy kitchen dominated by an oversized table, and asked me to make myself comfortable.

“Would you like to re-heat this?”, he said, handing me a foil dish of pasta and sauce from the fridge as we danced around each other in what space there was in his kitchen. “OK”, I said, before attempting to negotiate his microwave. After five minutes deciphering the controls and 30 seconds reheating I served up lunch, offering Mike the lion‟s share. He responded by pouring me a glass of lemonade that was as empty as his was full, which he served alongside the pasta and two mini pork pies that he‟d found for himself.

“How would you like to do this?”, he asked, and I told him my plans.

“No”, he said. “I don‟t want to be recorded. Think of two questions you‟d like to ask me, and I‟ll give you fifteen minutes.”

“I don‟t know any shorthand; I‟m not a proper journalist”, I said.

“You won‟t be writing anything down”, he replied, before handing me the most recent copies of Talk of the Town and another local newspaper. “First of all, though, I‟d like you to have a look at these and pick three things about each that appeal to you and tell me why. I‟ll leave the room for five minutes”.

From TotT, I picked a photo of a stuffed ferret wearing a flat cap, an exquisitely prepared article about a keep fit club, and my own headline from a piece I‟d written about the local life drawing group that I thought was clever. From the other journal, I opted for a photo of a

woman with unusually short ponytails, a headline with the word “sex” opportunely dropped in the middle of it, and an advert for a legal firm that featured an oversized picture of a pudding-faced young solicitor.

On his return he asked me to explain my choices, and I said that in each case there was something quirky that caught my eye. Sex often snags our attention and the headline I selected was a good example of that, and the other words and images stood out because they were unexpected and refreshing. Mike sagely nodded his understanding, before commenting on my decision to select my own work. “Yes, it‟s a good headline, and the opening of the article is strong, but I didn‟t read on. That kind of thing doesn‟t interest me”.

He left again, and with my two questions already prepared, I sat alone in the kitchen for the next fifteen minutes and waited. On his return, I asked what was he going to do with his time now that he was stepping down. Family and church were his priorities, he explained, and it was clear from much of our time together that service and duty are fundamental to him. I then asked him to talk more about his career as a reporter. He retired some time ago following a lifelong career in the profession that dated back to the 1940s, and after he retired he was led to Talk of the Town by that pronounced sense of civic responsibility.

He showed me some of his most recent articles for Talk of the Town, usually no more than a third of a page long, and they were breezy, informative and replete. He didn‟t hang around, but he has a talent for squeezing far more into those news-bites than you‟d expect. His is the antithesis of my own leisurely approach, and although both have their strengths, Mike made it obvious that you can‟t really expect to be the master of either method until you can excel at his first. At 90, his mind is razor-sharp, and I asked whether he felt that this keenness had been shaped by his trade.

“I do have a journalist‟s mind, yes”, he said. Every aspect of our meeting, with its many surprises and challenges, betrayed an alertness that rises clear of any other limitations he may have; Mike owns a mind that built itself, and its foundations are strong.

If you envy Mike‟s acuity, if you think you can offer the same exemplary service to Saltburn, why not write for Talk of the Town yourself? If you look through back issues and see any brief news item from the past few years that pricks your curiosity, the chances are that it was written by him. His are big shoes to fill, but there‟s no reason why you shouldn‟t be one of those who steps in and follows his lead.

Why not try his experiment? Look through any news publication and think about what jumps out at you, and why. How could you hold someone‟s attention and tease their curiosity with the fewest words possible? Think about how your mind could benefit from the sharpness that makes Mike such a good writer and clear thinker. Think about how we could benefit from your talent.

Mike‟s done his bit; now it‟s up to you to tell the stories that show us who we are in Saltburn.

Mark Lawton

Keeping It Clean At Saltburn

Our Keeping It Clean At Saltburn Beach Clean in June was a huge success. We removed two full bin bags of litter from the beach which contained mainly cigarette butts, small pieces of plastic, bottles and cans, fishing wire and quite a few items of clothing.

For those of you who follow our Facebook page, you will have seen our “how long till it‟s gone” post. Did you know cigarette butts take over five years to break down and are a major sea pollution problem? Talking of Facebook posts, our post on the taprogge balls which we find on the beach has gone viral with 23,321 people reached.

Our picture this month features Sophie, from Hey Ho Print. We launched Saltburn town‟s first 2minute beach Clean board, outside her beautiful shop in Station Square. Sophie has kindly volunteered to be the board guardian. We made some re-usable bags, out of an old windbreak and hope they will be returned after emptying.

This area has beautiful flower beds that are maintained by Saltburn in Bloom, but it is also a litter trouble spot. So now, you can do your own little tidy up

using the board equipment. Please share any pictures of you doing a litter pick on our social media using the #2minutebeachcleanboard hashtag. These boards are on beaches and in towns country-wide and bought and maintained by volunteers such as ourselves, for our community.

If you‟d like to be involved in our regular first Saturday of the month Beach Clean, then join us on Saturday 6th July. We‟ll be joining up with our friends from Beachwatch for their quarterly litter recording event.

Saltburn Beachwatch has been honoured with a Queen‟s Award for Voluntary Service #QAVS2019 - the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK! See their FB Page for more information. We meet at the new Victorian Shelter, next to the mini golf and new beach huts – we‟ll be present from at 11am until 12pm but if you want to get started sooner, Beachwatch get started at 10am. We recycle what we can. It‟s free, it‟s fun and we provide adult and children‟s pickers, gloves and buckets. Together we can KICAS!

Earthbeat Open Day

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

There is probably something for everyone at the Earthbeat centre, but don‟t take our word for it. Why not come along to our Open Day and see for yourself? On Saturday 13th July between 10.30am & 3pm we will open our doors. Entry is free and there will be displays and performances from the groups who are based at the centre. We will also have lots of activities such as games, music, dance, face painting, a tombola and craft demonstrations.

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

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

A Ribbon

Saltburn is a town which welcomes visitors from all over the world and has a wide variety of origins for its current residents. For such a small town Saltburn has had far reaching influence and there is hardly a country where a relation is not to be found.

When the prospect of finding a current resident to cut the ribbon for the 150th year of a pier in Saltburn who was actually born and still residing in the town, was over the age of 90 years, who could ably rise to the challenge and negotiate a way along the pier, was mooted it seemed a thankless task.

We were soon to find a willing candidate. Dorothy Walsh was born in Arlington Cottage on the third of March 1927. Her father, William Walsh, had seen action in the Boer War. He had served his country in the First World War before being invalided out after a gas attack. Unfit to return to service, William became the caretaker at Upleatham Street School.

Dorothy was to reside in a variety of residences in her earlier life. Randolph Street was followed by a period in 16, Eden Street before a move to 13, Montrose Street. During these formative years Dorothy would enjoy all the excitement and pleasures that the town could offer, particularly at the sea side.

School was not far away at Upleatham Street where many happy years were spent before bombs fell on the buildings and lessons were then delivered in what we know today as Saltburn House. School would be left behind when a working life beckoned and aged 16, the office of The Saltburn Electric Laundry became the centre of life.

Not for long however, as Eric Powell, a young Welshman from Cwm, billeted in Saltburn, won the heart of Dorothy and they would be married in November 1947.

After two years spent in the distant settlement of Marske, the couple returned to a house in Queensway before finally settling down in the Parkway. 59 years later, with a family stretching across the world from Normanby to Sydney, Dorothy is still there smiling at each day that arrives.

When asked if she would wish to be considered for taking part in the formal celebrations to mark the 150th year and to cut the ceremonial ribbon, there was no hesitation in accepting.

Dawn broke on the 11th of May after days of bad weather heralding a day to remember. The sun shone, there was smile on every face and the pier was promenaded upon by costumed persons remembering 1869. Dorothy cut the ribbon as history will record.

Explore and Discover at Guisborough Museum

We are a charming, Olde Worlde museum packed with colourful memorabilia of old Guisborough town. Peer into our antique shop windows, see our superb railway model, and much more. Free entry, disabled access, children‟s quiz. Open every Thursday and Saturday until end of October, 10.00am till 4.00pm. Find us in the town centre behind Sunnyfield House on Guisborough main street.

Olwen

Above left: Dorothy aged 3 and right: aged 17

We want to put a stop to Sexual Harassment in Redcar and Cleveland and we need your help!

A recent YouGov survey tells us that two thirds of women (63%) and a quarter of men describe having been on the receiving end of some kind of sexual harassment. So much so that many people describe it as part of a „normal‟ night out.

We want to support local venues to create safe spaces for their staff and customers, where people are aware of sexual harassment and staff feel confident to challenge it when they see it.

We are offering a bespoke, dynamic and interactive training opportunity for your venue, around sexual harassment. The training aims to: Help your venue to identify sexual harassment when you spot it; Work with your staff team to respond to and challenge sexual harassment safely and appropriately.

Upon completing the training your venue will receive a certificate to show that you are a sexual harassment aware business

The training can either be held at your venue (if you have space) or at EVA‟s house on Redcar High Street. It will be facilitated by EVA staff and lasts for approximately 1.5 hours.

If this sounds like something your venue would like to get involved with contact EVA on: 01642 490677 and ask for Hannah (alternatively email Hannah@EVA.org.uk).

Goodbye The Cave, Hello Weird Idea

supporting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence

or email: simon.robson1@ntlworld.com

On 22nd July The Cave will be 30 years old. This is the day we officially change to Weird Idea.

We would like to thank the people of Saltburn for all of the fun and the many characters that we deal with and have dealt with.

Weird Idea has many new and exciting plans and avenues, including but not limited food and drink, which has been planned for 15 years and will compliment the vibrancy and

exciting times of the upcoming Milton Street scene, and compliment the existing businesses, which in itself guarantees exciting times to Saltburn, which will for sure be the talk of the whole area. We shall also go through a major facelift to the exterior of the building. Mark

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council

At the recent meeting concerns were raised regarding the route of the Sustrans cycle path, in particular, the track along the lower promenade, up the Donkey Path and through Hazel Grove. It was noted that there was no requirement for cyclists to dismount at any time and the speed of some cyclists on this busy stretch of track was dangerous. This route was popular with cyclists, walkers, joggers, parents with toddlers and buggies and wheelchair users and there had been reports of near misses between cyclists and pedestrians. Saltburn Valleys CIO were conducting a survey on the Donkey Path to break down usage.

It was noted that Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council were carrying out a consultation on extending dog control powers for a further 3 years to June 2022. These powers will allow the Borough Council to take enforcement action by issuing fines to dog walkers who fail to clean up after their dog, permit their dogs on the beach between 1st May and 30th September, enter any of the Council‟s cemeteries or fenced off play areas or fail to have the means to pick up after their dog. Full details of the scope of the consultation, and the powers, can be found on their website.

Following on from the 150th birthday celebrations of Saltburn Pier, a Scarecrow Festival is being organised for the

town (12th-18th August). The theme is Victorian to celebrate the town‟s heritage and if anyone wants to take part and for further information please contact saltburnscarecrow@gmail.com or pop along to Toc H on Albion Terrace every Monday afternoon between 1.303pm.

On 29th September two plaques will be unveiled in memory of community stalwart Jackie Taylor, one at the bandstand and the other at the spot near the Portico where Jackie used to sit every week, come rain or shine, to promote Saltburn and raise money for community projects.

The annual Joe Abrahams allotment competition will be held on Thursday, 25th July. All allotment gardens will be judged and the winners will receive vouchers to spend in the allotment shop. The competition will be judged by Peter Sherry, who is the Grounds Officer for the Borough Council.

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

www.smnmpc.co.uk

There’s nowt so queer…

The debate in the Folk world about what is traditional is, in itself, a tradition. Its modern form probably dates back to the dispute between Cecil Sharp and Mary Neal as to the role of professionals or to discussions regarding whether Ralph Vaughan Williams destroyed or enlivened English music. More recent controversies may have started with Dylan being called „Judas‟ at Manchester in 1966 and have led to claims that Mumford & Sons were never folk in the first place. Closer to home, some friends suggested that we shouldn‟t have folk in the title of Seaside Folk in case people thought that it referred to Folk, whatever that is. Sound Tradition are, for what it‟s worth, both folk and traditional and not close from home. They are an a cappella foursome (David, Linda, Catherine and Moose) singing in harmony, with occasional harmonium or percussion. Their repertoire ranges from lively chorus songs to not. Some are recognisable as being old and therefore folk, others are from an established genre such as ballads and therefore traditional and some are by modern songsmiths that must also be traditional because smithing is.

Their choice of name refers back to The Young Tradition so don‟t be surprised if Peter Bellamy gets a mention or indeed East Anglia. In fact, don‟t be surprised if they refer back to all sorts of things; they are more than familiar with the history and the provenance of their material.

They sing some songs that have been made familiar by other performers but that is surely part of the folk tradition. They sing some songs that you will have forgotten but bring back good memories and they sing

some songs that you haven‟t heard before because they are either so old or so new. They produce a sound that is traditional but who cares what it is called when it is this good.

After this concert, Seaside Folk takes a short Summer break, partly to give way to Saltburn Folk Festival which will be using the centre as its best venue during the weekend of the 9th, 10th and 11th August. In addition, we will be taking time out to book new artists for 2020 in order continue what has already become the local tradition of Seaside Folk.

Sound Tradition may have supported such luminaries as Martin Carthy, Dave Swarbrick, Chris Wood and Roy Bailey but they need only your support to make Friday 19th July another great night at the Schoolroom.

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

School becomes first member of Dementia Project

Huntcliff School in Saltburn will soon become the first in the area to become a member of the Dementia Friendly Redcar & Cleveland Project.

On Tuesday, 18th June 2019, learners took part in sessions as part of the „Dementia Friends‟ project, which was launched to tackle the stigma and lack of understanding that means that many people with the condition experience loneliness and social exclusion. As established Dementia Friends, learners learned more about what it‟s like to live with dementia and the small ways in which they can help. On Monday, 10th June, staff at Huntcliff were also trained.

Project Lead Brian Rowcroft, who delivers the sessions as Dementia Champion, said, “it is fabulous that the school is supporting so many young people in becoming Dementia Friends and allowing them the opportunity to learn a little more about living with the condition.”

“It is such a great opportunity for us as a school and the local area to achieve being a member of the Dementia Friendly Project” said Neil Greaves, Life Skills Coordinator at Huntcliff. He went on to say, “is very important that our learners are aware of these types of illnesses as it may affect their lives in some way now or in the future”.

Saltburn Food Festival

2019 promises to be the tastiest festival yet as Saltburn Food Festival takes over the town on Sunday, 28th July. Milton Street, Dundas Street and Station Street are closed to traffic, from 6am till 8pm, as food and drink traders take over the area creating a buzzing market place and „World Cafes‟.

At the top of Ruby Street, Emerald Street, Pearl Street, and also Dundas Street and Station Street, will be cafe areas, set back to allow easier access for everyone. You‟ll find Bratwurst and Schnitzel, Indian, African and Korean curries, Khachapuri cheese bread from Armenia, hawarma wraps from Lebanon and homemade steamed Bao Buns from Asia! Alongside there will be the more familiar Teesside Parmos, Bangers and Burgers! In amongst all the food will be delights for those with restricted diets and those choosing to eat vegan with many stalls offering options and market favourites Green Guerrilla offering entirely Vegetarian and Vegan Foods. Milton Street will house the long street market, through the Station to Dundas Street, you‟ll find Josh‟s music stage outside Signals, a more refined art and gift area on Dundas Street East and a well being area on Dundas Street West!

Up through Station Street, also closed to traffic, will be newer stalls with Focaccia, Hummus, Cheese, Spice kits, Salad Dressings, Sauces and Marinades! Which takes you nicely over the road to what we hope will be a new business area in the Community Theatre! The stars of tomorrow - you can say you saw it here first!

With so much going on Arriva buses have been hired to support the event with a park and ride service running from Guisborough Coach Park, Skelton Civic Offices and Freebrough School in Brotton direct into the festival. And Arriva Rail have been asked to double the length of the trains coming into and out of Saltburn for the day. If you are coming from outside Saltburn, head to one of our park and ride car parks or hop on a train.

Saltburn is really good at festivals!

Loftus ACCORD Walking Group –Thursday 4th July – Guided Walk

There is a free guided walk from Skinningrove to Hummersea Cliffs on Thursday, 4th July starting from Skinningrove beach car park at 10:30 am.

Geologist Mr Alan Simkin will inform us on the rock strata along this section of the coast.

We shall also be able to view the remnants of the former Alum crystallisation house and kiln used for the manufacture of Roman Cement.

We shall walk along the shore to Hummersea point and return by the same route to the car park. Walkers are requested to wear wellington boots, bring light refreshments and have waterproof clothing if needed.

Skinningrove Lane end is served by Arriva X4 and 5 buses. No booking needed; for more information phone 01287 641000 (or e-mail office@loftustc.co.uk).

Food Co-op: A small step for the environment

Most of us would like to reduce the amount of packaging we “consume.” One small step would be to organise a bulk buy food co -op and I am just now putting out feelers to see how many people might be interested in such a scheme.

I have discussed this with Lorna at Real Meals because I would not want to propose anything that undermines their excellent shop. In essence Real Meals is on board with the idea and the principles behind it and we might be able to operate from their premises. Possibly this could operate outside of their normal shop opening hours; perhaps for a couple of hours one evening.

The Wholefood supplier Suma has been serving food cooperatives for many years. (I was involved in one way back in the seventies!) Very simply, Suma supply items in bulk and members come with their own containers to collect their order which will have to be paid for in advance.

Avoiding supplying items that Real Meals already sell well, we could start with some basics; flour, oats, muesli, rice, nuts and seeds and Ecover washing products.

The added bonus of course is that members would benefit from wholesale prices, though we would make some rental contribution to Real Meals for their services. Anyone interested –either as a buyer or also in helping to run the group?

No commitment at this stage but if you might be interested, can you email me please at lornamoone@talktalk.net “Food Coop” or leave a message on 01287 624571 or 07779 664679. Some little acorns grow into big trees!

Lorna Moone

Strawberry Tea Afternoon and Craft Fayre Sensation

Wowweeee! What a fabulous and successful event it turned out to be. The field full of visitors‟ cars, the grass adorned with strawberry eaters, the barn buzzing with SARA supporters and their four-legged friends.

We invited 8 new stallholders selling their wares including cushions, wooden animals, screen printed goods, and a huge selection of handcrafted items. Raffles and tombolas a plenty and a mini-auction helped raise funds. Of course our usual SARA stalls were present. The entertainment was provided by The Ladies Tribal Masqueraders and the Saltburn ATS. Their colourful and ornate costumes made an eye-catching spectacle on the dance floor and their dances to the music were interesting and educational as well as entertaining. We thank them for joining us on the Sunday afternoon. We would like to say a special thank you to Dawn McCormick and mum for donating five wonderful cake creations –mouth-watering and amazing designs.

Last year nearly £900 was raised, but this year over £1,200 was raised. This will go towards vet bills for our little black cat Daisy who at eighteen months old had her 6th litter with us. She gave birth to six beautiful all black kittens. She and her kittens will all need neutering, microchipping and health checks. No more maternity wards for Daisy only a special home with lots of love to make up for her laboured start in life.

We would like to thank everyone who played a part in making the day such a wonderful event.

Fingers crossed that the next one will be as much fun and popular. Put it in your diary now. The FUN DOG SHOW (21 classes) is Saturday, 13th July 11 – 4pm, Featuring the Easington Tappers for entertainment and many stalls to browse. Of course there will be plenty of refreshments too. Also the PDSA will join us to offer FREE dog health checks.

Best wishes, Joy and Mandy, volunteers at SARA.

Talk of the Town’s monthly Pride of Saltburn Award

The winner of this month‟s bouquet of flowers is Peter Scott. He was nominated by a neighbour Carole McNaught. About him, she says, “I‟d like to nominate Peter Scott of Johnston Avenue for the Pride of Saltburn monthly award, Peter walks around the Irvin Avenue and Marske Road parts of Saltburn, litter picking every week in all weathers. He is very polite and always has a smile for people passing him. It is so nice to know that he cares about the area that he lives in. Thank you, Peter, for being you, the Pride of Saltburn.

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

All the nominations will be read and kept for future use, so even if your choice doesn‟t win this month, they might do so next time.

Pride returns to the Cons Club

Welcome to the monthly article from Saltburn Conservative Club.

I have to start on a very sad note to report that on 10th June the club lost a very dear friend and life member, Susan Jane Sellars. Sue and her husband Mike (also a life member and past president) have been long standing members of the club and she will be sadly missed by us all. Sue was also very involved in the Saltburn ‟53 Drama Group where she was an excellent actor and highly respected director receiving great acclaim for musicals such as „The Wizard of Oz‟, „Oliver Twist‟ and „Blood Brothers‟, to which my wife Anne so enjoyed helping Sue in the background as producer, all of which played to capacity audiences each night. Anne and I have known Sue for many years and found her to be honest, straight-talking and very kind and we only have great memories of her to look back on. We are thankful for the time that we spent in her company. She was a good lady with a good heart and myself and Anne will miss her. May she rest in peace and we send our sincere condolences to Mike and the family.

I am writing this article a little early this month as myself and Anne are going on a short four day break. At the time of writing this it has been raining for the past three days but fortunately the forecast looks good for the period we will be away, so fingers crossed, we may get sunshine. I can‟t report on the club outing to York as it has not yet taken place but I know that everyone will have a great time as they always do and a good night will follow on the return to the club. All tickets were sold well in advance of the date, as they always are, and once again I thank the members for their fantastic support for everything we organise for them.

Another late addition to our events list for June was a fundraising night for Armed Forces Day organised by the South Tees Conservative Association and a full house is expected. The Clairvoyant night will be another big night in the Balmoral Room with most of the tickets sold. With the new bar opened upstairs it will give the members the comfort of not having to go downstairs to purchase their drinks.

Moving into July and we have a full month of activities. We start with the monthly SLUG (Saltburn Line Users Group) meeting on Tuesday 2nd and for all rail enthusiasts this is a night they will find very interesting. The event starts at 7pm upstairs in the Balmoral Room and entry is free with everybody welcome. This is followed on Thursday 4th with the monthly meeting of the Backgammon Club from 7pm to 9pm. Once again the entry is free and all are welcome to attend. If you have not played before it‟s not a problem as experts are on hand to guide you through the rules. This is a very enjoyable and social event and you will really enjoy it if you come along on the night. On Wednesday 10th we are holding a Quiz, Bingo & Buffet Supper

starting at 8pm with tickets available from the bar priced at £4 each. These events are held approx every 6 weeks, alternating between Buffets and Pie & Pea Suppers and are always fun packed evenings and nothing too serious. Tickets usually sell out so don‟t leave it too late to buy yours.

The big event of the month is „Gay Pride‟ over the weekend of Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th which will also include a „Mad-Hatters Party‟ on the Sunday. Music & entertainment will be in good supply over both days in what will be a great weekend. Money over the period will be raised for a local charity so come along and support LGBT+. Also, on the Saturday afternoon, we will be hosting a wedding reception in the Balmoral Room from 2pm to 7pm and on the Sunday Saltburn Blues Club will be holding an event upstairs in the Balmoral Room. This will be the first time we will have had the pleasure of a Blues Club event in the club and we are confident that Harry Simpson and his followers will have a great night. On Friday 26th we will have the monthly „Open Mic Night‟, hosted by Liz Bishop & friends, starting at 8pm. Anybody wanting to play or sing are asked to register with Liz in the club from 7.30pm. These events are becoming more popular in the comfort of the Balmoral Room and now that we have the bar operating you could not wish for a better place to hear the best live music in town on a Friday night. Please support Liz and live music. Entry is free. The following night, Saturday 27th, we are holding a private 50th birthday party and this is followed on Sunday 28th with the Saltburn Food Festival which attracts a lot of visitors to the club and we may even put on a barbecue.

As you can see the month is full of varied entertainment and the best way to keep up to date on all events is to visit the club‟s Facebook page at „Saltburn Conservative & Unionist Club‟ for all the latest news.

Forthcoming events in August include two wedding receptions, Saltburn Folk Weekend plus a Christening. Members are starting to make full use of the new Balmoral Room which they can hire free of charge, again proving that it pays to be a member of this fantastic, friendly, popular club. One more thing to keep note of is that during August the club will be open every day at 1pm.

Running out of space so that‟s all for now. Remember to love life, love family and love your friends. Life is short, don‟t waste it!

Best wishes, David.

David Rigg, Club President

Email : davidrigg21@yahoo.co.uk

Article financially supported by Saltburn Conservative Club

Saltburn Cons Club: Future Events to Entertain in July

Every Tuesday: Club Draw Nights for Meat Voucher, Wines & Chocolates… 10pm.

Every Sunday: Drinks Draw & Cash Rollover. Increases by £25 each week if not won, currently standing at £650… 6pm.

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

Tuesday 2nd: SLUG Meeting (Saltburn Line Users Group)… 7pm.

Thursday 4th: Backgammon Club. Everybody welcome to come along… 7pm to 9pm.

Wednesday 10th: Quiz, Bingo & Buffet Supper. Tickets £4 each from club… 8pm.

Saturday 13th: LGBT+ Gay Pride. Music & Entertainment.

Also Saturday 13th: Wedding Reception (Balmoral Room)… 2pm to 7pm.

Sunday 14th: LGBT+ Gay Pride Mad-Hatters Party.

Also Sunday 14th: Saltburn Blues Club (Balmoral Room).

Friday 26th: „Open Mic Night‟ hosted by Liz Bishop & Friends… 8pm.

Saturday 27th: Private 50th Birthday Party.

Sunday 28th: Saltburn Food Festival.

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

Wonder what DanceFit classes look like?

Come and see us at our CLASSES DEMO on Saturday 13th July 11.20am at the EARTHBEAT CENTRE OPEN DAY

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

45 Milton Street (Opposite Sainsbury’s Car Park) Tel: 01287 624283

SOSA DANCE FITNESS puts the FABULOUS into FITNESS!! Learn some routines, groove and get fit to all sorts of dances and music... CABARET BOLLYWOOD DISCO… ROCK n ROLL... POP… LATIN… 20s Flappers... and so much more!!

Packed

This FUN and EASY TO FOLLOW class is TONING and a great OVERALL WORKOUT

Watch out for ‘bums & tums’ targeted dances!

A PILATES, YOGA & BALLET inspired class: This fitness class will TONE and DEFINE YOUR FIGURE Also improves CORE STRENGTH, BALANCE and NATURAL FLEXIBILTY. This class also includes mat work.

Call ESTELLE on 07887 525234 or visit...

TIME SERVED

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

with International & Latin beats

Saving And Re-homing Animals

THE ANN PROSSER FOUNDATION

A small charity seeking to rescue and re-home cats and dogs, Tel: 01642 488108 (weekdays only, 10am to 2pm). SARA has many dogs and cats that need new homes. All are clean, healthy, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

Hello readers, we hope you are able to help us. We are Mia and Ava, and we both young cats are looking for our forever homes.

Mia is a beautiful three year old girl, she is black with a white bib and white patches near her whiskers. Mia came to live with SARA after her human sadly passed away. She is a lovely natured cat and very affectionate and loving! Mia will make a wonderful companion animal. We are looking for a home where Mia would be the only pet in the household and there would be no

young children. Ava is just growing out of her kittenhood as she is only 9 months old. She is black with a white bib and a cute blaze running from her forehead and down her nose. Like all our cats at SARA Ava is spayed. She will require safe access to the outdoor world. Ava is a very active, playful young cat with bags of personality. Ava needs a home where she is the only pet, Ava would be happy homed with a family with older children. Love and purrs from Mia and Ava.

SARA fundraising events during July and August

Please note our monthly meetings for SARA supporters are now held in the Cleveland Bay, Ings Road, Redcar on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm. Bar open, come along on the 2nd July to hear all our news and meet new people.

Our next event will be the ever-popular FUN DOG SHOW on Saturday, 13th July 11am – 4pm at Foxrush Farm, Kirkleatham Lane, Redcar, TS10 5NJ. Over 20 classes feature in the competition. The PDSA will kindly be doing free dog health checks. Entertainment by the Easington Tappers and there will be lots of new stalls to

browse. Farm tours are offered during the day. Street collections will be Saturday, 6th July in Middlesbrough and Saturday, 24th August in Redcar. Can you help? If you can please contact the farm.

The traditional SARA BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION event will be held at Foxrush Farm on Saturday, 3rd August 11am – 4pm, featuring Gabriella‟s Donkeys. Come along with family, friends and pets and enjoy yourselves with lots to do and see. Farm tours will also be held during the day.

Joy and Mandy Volunteers at SARA

Dozens Descend for D-Day!

Saltburn & District Royal British Legion organised a special parade in Loftus and further celebrations for D-Day on Saturday, 8th June, 9am until 12 noon.

They wanted to commemorate the fallen soldiers and honour the only soldier that won a Victoria Cross medal on D-Day-WO2 CSM Stan Hollis, pictured right.

This was a family fun day which began with a parade descending to Loftus cenotaph, with all their youth affiliated groups supporting them: these were Loftus Army Cadets and Carlin How Girl Guiding.

Also in attendance were, Amanda Hart (Stan Hollis' granddaughter) and Mike Morgan, the author of a book about Stan Hollis. Many other VIPs were in attendance such as The North East Riders Branch, The Town Mayor and many others supporting them.

Their committee put on further attractions in the Town Hall such as: re-enactment vehicles, book signing, icecream van, chocolate fountains, guess how many poppies in a jar, guess the weight of the cake, candy floss, treasure hunts, colouring competitions, hotdogs, cakes, scones, raffle, historical exhibits, union flag face painting, poppy appeal stall, WI stall and a general celebration!

The Town Hall was commented on as „Never been seen so full!‟ The support was overwhelming and everyone seemed to enjoy the day, despite the weather.

Emma-Kate Young (Chairperson of the Branch) said “We are here to commemorate the ones who gave their tomorrow for our today, and I am proud to be able to do that because of them!” See also article on page 18.

Recommended Writer: Paul Tripp

I have a number of favourite writers. Maybe you do too. Over the last couple of years I have added Paul Tripp to my list of favourites. He writes with great wisdom on a variety of issues, which include, money, relationships, parenting & suffering. He also writes ‘Wednesday’s Word’, a weekly short article on a relevant topic. What follows is part of his ‘Wednesday’s Word’ from 22nd May 2019. Have a read, and if you want to know more, then visit: www.paultripp.com/wednesdays-word

Human relationships exist on a continuum between isolation and immersion. Do you move away from others because you want to be safe and avoid hurt (isolation)? Or do you move towards others because you think you need them to live (immersion)? While most of us don’t tend to live at either of these extremes, we do tend towards independence or co-dependence. Whether we know it or not, every relational decision we make is moving in one of these directions. Where we are on the continuum varies within each relationship, but in most cases, the problems we have in relationships tend to fit one of three relational profiles.

The Frustrated Relationship

Here one person moves toward isolation while the other moves toward immersion. One dreams of being safe; the other dreams of being close and intimate. Can you see the problems brewing? The isolationist feels smothered; the immersionist feels rejected. Since both regularly have their expectations frustrated, the relationship can be perpetually disappointing.

The Enmeshed Relationship

Here both people move toward immersion. While you might think that similar expectations would lead to peace and harmony, it actually produces more problems. Because they are so dependent on each other, they ride the rollercoaster of each other’s emotions and are easily hurt when the other does not meet their needs. This relationship can become exhausting.

The Isolated Relationship

Here both people move toward isolation. Each person is aware of the dangers of relationships and opting for safety in seclusion. Conversations are limited, safe, and impersonal. But both people, created in the image of God, long for some form of connection, no matter how small it may be. This relationship can be empty and disappointing.

The Solution For All Relationships

It’s natural for us to develop systems that we think can diagnose and cure our relationships. We hope that relationship profiles, effective communication methods, clear role definitions, conflict resolution strategies, personality typing to name just a few will make the difference.

These appeal to us because they promise that relational problems can be fixed by tweaking our behaviour without altering the real problem – the sin in our hearts. There may be some value in them, but if they were all we needed, the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ would be unnecessary.

The Bible provides a different diagnosis and cure. James 4:1 (with the rest of Scripture) reminds us that our real problem is inside us. “What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?” Because of indwelling sin, we have turned life upside down. What we want, for ourselves and from others, becomes more important to us than God himself. We have made ourselves ultimate and God secondary.

When we do this, our selfish desires go on to rule our relationships, leading to problems, conflict, and disappointment with others. Only when we confess our sins and submit to God can we escape the destructive results of our selfishness. Human relationships are most satisfying when we enter them not just to please ourselves or even the other person, but to please God.

God bless,

Services Times

Sundays in July

9.00am traditional communion

10.45am contemporary worship

Tuesdays in July 9.30am said communion Morning Prayer 9.00am Tues-Fri in ECHO

Contact Details

Art on your doorstep

Have you been to Saltburn Studios and Gallery recently, or indeed ever? Do you walk or drive by it on Marske Road and mean to pop in one day but never get round to it? Those who know the exciting mix of art being created here say it is well worth a look. Yet many local residents as well as visitors to Saltburn seem to literally pass it by on their way in and out of town. The 17 artists and Board of Trustees want to spread the word about what we have to offer: from a diverse range of art exhibitions to behind the scenes Open Studios days.

The building itself is intriguing, with its striking modern architecture amongst traditional housing, and there is free parking right outside on Irvin Avenue. The one-time bakery now houses 15 artists‟ studios and a small but perfectly formed gallery, with regular group and individual exhibitions. The artists invite anyone to come and have a nosey round their studios every few months too. We also took part in the Saltburn Open Studios day, to celebrate 150 years of the Pier, in May and hope this becomes another dynamic event in the town‟s annual calendar.

So why have many not yet visited us? Rae Clarke joined the resident artists last year having moved to Saltburn in 2015 and believes it‟s a hidden gem. To her delight she found there‟s a complete mix of practices from felt and jewellery making to photography, mosaics, paper cutting, ceramics, graphic design and paintings. There‟s also a diverse group of people creating the art e.g. ranging in age from their thirties to their seventies. But it‟s their energy to continually make new work that counts.

Being an artist conjures lots of stereotypes but maybe least likely is that it‟s sheer hard work. There is plenty of passion but no guarantees, of anything, and having others around is one of the attractions of a shared space like Saltburn Studios and Gallery. Some of the artists have been based in the building since it opened 21 years ago and are known and loved locally for their work, particularly in the community. Many have related lines of generating income including running creative workshops and public art events.

Visiting the studios gives an insight into the core of what all the artists do; the creative processes and materials

used, as well as ingenious ways to cram all their tools into the different studio spaces. So far in 2019 there have been exhibitions by visually impaired artists plus abstract and modern art. The group shows include pieces from all the disciplines in the building as well as the chance to have a good look round and chat over light refreshments.

The next Group Exhibition plus Open Studios is this month: on Saturday, 27th July with the theme of „Earth‟ so why not drop in, especially if you haven‟t before! We will be open 12-4pm and warmly welcome everyone who can come along. And if not this time, save the date for our Christmas Group Exhibition and Open Studios on Saturday, 30th November. See our website or Facebook/Instagram for details of all our events. We are confident you won‟t be disappointed and would love to hear what you think.

Rae Clarke, Painter, Studio 12, Saltburn Artists‟ Studios and Gallery.

The Scarecrows of Marske

From the 25th May to 1st June, Marske was alive with Scarecrows.

The theme this year was a character from a story book.

As you entered Marske on Redcar Road the first one you saw was a 6 foot Hungry Caterpillar tied to a tree. Many Scarecrows were on the grass in front of the Cheshire Home and lots more were outside shops in the town square.

Someone connected to the Methodist Church on Windy Hill Lane secured The Pied Piper, complete with lots of rats, high up on the Church building.

Each year the number of Scarecrows increases and the making of them has become a work of art.

Many thanks must go to the organisers of this annual event and also to the people who designed them, as hours of work must have gone into their making.

It was lovely to see families out together looking at the Scarecrows. The children knew the names of them all and the quiz sheets provided were quickly filled in.

Lynn Flounders

Huntcliff School Prioritises Mental Health and Well-Being

“Going to Guided Relaxation has really helped me cope with stress before going into an exam,” says sixteen year old Eleanor, preparing for her GCSEs at Huntcliff School. “It was so good that I persuaded five of my friends to try it and they attended for the rest of the sessions. We were taught massage techniques and subtle things to do before an exam.”

Head of School, Miss Lynsey Wilkinson, explains to me that Huntcliff employs the specialist Saltburn Therapies to help learners cope with the challenges of ever increasing exam demands and living with each other and with social media. She said: “We see the importance of mental health and well-being as pivotal to learners succeeding in school academically and in their personal lives. It‟s vital that they develop the skills to overcome difficulties now and in the future. We want the learners to be happy here, because happy children find it easier to learn and succeed.”

When the school asks parents what they want for their children at Huntcliff, they typically say they want them to be happy, to stay safe and to do well – in that order. Hence, staff are working hard to provide opportunities for learners to stay healthy and to commit resources to ensure that they are available.

Growing in popularity are voluntary half hour Yoga sessions before school. Key Stage 3 learners (eleven to fourteen year olds) attend on Fridays and Key Stage 4 learners (fourteen to sixteen year olds) attend on Mondays. These are run by school counsellor, Victoria Dell, who teaches breathing techniques and mindfulness as well as physical exercises encouraging flexibility and core strength. Also, for Year 11, six week meditation and well-being sessions have been introduced for an hour on Fridays after school. Saltburn Therapies bring in aromatherapy oils and promote guided meditation.

Teachers are present in a study room for an hour after school every night to give guidance to learners who want to come and work. They help with revision and the students appreciate the group learning. Teas and coffees are available and the atmosphere is very supportive.

Lynsey explains that the school also engages the organisation Aspire to Believe to work with some chosen young people to build self-confidence and self-esteem. These sessions are predominantly for any learners who are victims or perpetrators of bullying. The staff are qualified counsellors and support workers who spend some of their time with those who have incidents logged against them. The latter are directed to attend sessions individually or in a group in school time.

“Ten learners have been trained as anti-bullying ambassadors,” continues Lynsey. “They wear anti-bullying badges and can be approached by any learner with a problem he or she isn‟t ready to bring to an adult.” The ambassadors have spoken at some year group assemblies and are going to liaise with the School Council about the re-writing of the Huntcliff Anti-Bullying Charter, under the guidance of Assistant Head, Mrs Becky Alderson.

Lynsey is also proud that the school has maintained its P.E. provision in the curriculum for older learners, because she sees physical exercise as an important way to de-stress and encourage health and well-being.

Most days, there is a counsellor on site. Victoria Dell and Claire Appleton from Time for You and Pete Chandler from Targeted Youth Support offer sessions to learners by parental request or through identification by pastoral managers or Heads of Year. Sometimes, learners attend counselling as

individuals, sometimes they form groups focused on particular issues. “For example, we have had a girls‟ group addressing self-esteem and building self-confidence and another on eating disorders,” says Lynsey.

The school plans Life Skills Days to prepare learners for exams and the stresses that come with them. They are advised how to plan and revise effectively and where to go for help. Risk-taking behaviours such as involvement with drugs, alcohol and sexual activity are discussed, along with the value of fitness, good diet, mindfulness, maintaining health and First Aid. The importance of staying safe online has high priority and is addressed regularly in tutor time, on Life Skills Days and in IT lessons. Teachers ensure that learners have the skills to stay safe online and understand the dangers of social media. To this end, learners‟ mobile phones are banned on the school site; they are not allowed to be seen or heard.

Further, Huntcliff‟s tutorial programme responds to issues that come up in the media, including self-harm of famous people, viral dares to teenagers to self-harm and eating disorders. The impact of their effects is debated.

“Our commitment to mental health and well-being is dealt with across all subjects in the curriculum, though,” adds Lynsey. “It is integral to all we do. All the decisions we make regarding the curriculum are made with the learners‟ best interests at heart. We have kept a broad three year curriculum before learners start two year GCSE courses. This encourages a certain level of maturity before starting GCSE study and allows creativity to remain in place in the curriculum for Years 7 – 9. A very broad and balanced curriculum helps mental health.”

Executive Head, Mr Peter Eyre confirms: “Emotional and mental well-being is critical to the current and future success of all our learners.”

Rosemary Nicholls

G Hodgson Joinery

Goats byAlanButler

Many years ago, whilst I was living in rural Wales, I happened to inherit a goat called Gertie. Gertie was a fairly placid creature whose chief delight in life was to eat washing – and just about anything else she could get at. She and I rubbed along fairly well until I had to move away and she got a new owner. As a result of this interlude in my life I henceforth judged my relationship with all of goat-kind by my experiences with Gertie - until two weeks ago.

We were staying in a villa in Cyprus with members of Kate‟s family. It was an idyllic location on the lower slopes of the mountains and overlooking the blue Mediterranean. Towards the end of the first week I drove the hire car a few miles in order to drop of some of our party at a wedding and then came back to the villa. I neglected to close the gates when I turned the car back into the drive – which was a great mistake.

I retired to the back of the house and sat down in the shade, only to be called to attention a few minutes later by Kate. I couldn‟t understand what she was saying but it sounded urgent, so I dashed back through the villa to find her gesticulating wildly out of the front windows. I looked out and to my astonishment there were at least thirty and perhaps many more extremely large goats all over the front garden of the villa. Some were busily munching on olive trees, others were up on their back legs attacking large bougainvillea bushes and one was even demolishing a huge cactus in the centre of the garden. All of the goats were as large as a sizeable deer, and each looked lightly menacing.

Fearful for the deposit paid on the villa I launched into the attack, jumping up and down, waving my hands frantically and shouting “Shoo! Shoo!” I clearly have the makings of a Mediterranean goatherd but not entirely. Although the majority of the assembled herd took the hint immediately and retreated in all directions there were one or two of the largest animals who merely stood and looked at me, or who were so busy eating they had not even noticed my presence.

Jumping up and down like a mad thing I eventually managed to get their attention, with the result that every goat except one turned tail and shot off back through the gate. Only the largest goat, which I took to be the dominant male, refused to vacate the property. It stood, apparently fearless and even quite aggressively, with its evil eyes and large horns and in that short „High Noon‟ interlude it occurred to me that I had never envisioned meeting my end as a sort of goat kebab – only the other way around if you see what I mean. He was almost the size of a donkey and he obviously did not want to lose face with the rest of the herd, who were watching attentively from the other side of the wall.

Just when things looked really bad his nerve gave way seconds before mine did. He turned and leaped the garden wall in a single bound and I triumphantly shut the gate behind him.

“Well that‟s that!” I said to Kate, clapping my hands, before turning somewhat shakily back to the house. It was a sort of victory for the townie, but more by good luck than good management. I have rethought my attitude towards goats since – though I still like their cheese.

The Saltburn Profile

by Rosemary Nicholls Sarah Cramb

“I was over the moon with the result of the quiz and raffle that I organised for Alzheimer‟s Research UK in March,” says barmaid Sarah Cramb. “We raised £1010 at Saltburn Cricket, Tennis and Bowls Club.” This far exceeded the £250 target she‟d set herself and is a testament to the work she put into it.

Sarah was born in Overdene Maternity Home in Saltburn and was brought home to Redcar. She has two sisters, Rachel and Karen. She went to Lakes Primary and West Redcar Secondary Schools and when she left, went into the pub trade with her Dad. The family moved to Bedford to work for the pub chain Charles Wells, but after Sarah‟s Granddad died, they came back home.

She took a job serving at the Baker‟s Oven in Redcar and then went to the Dragonara casino in Middlesbrough as a croupier. For the following six years, she worked for the Carnival and Holland America cruise ship lines in the same role. “It‟s easier to list the countries I didn‟t visit than all the ones I did,” laughs Sarah, remembering sailing to Europe, the Caribbean, China, Vietnam and in a smaller ship up the Amazon.

After coming home, she worked in betting shops, first of all in Reggie Boyle‟s near Redcar Wilko‟s and then at Coral‟s and William Hill‟s. Meanwhile, her Dad became steward of Saltburn Cricket, Tennis and Bowls Club and she joined him as barmaid and relief manager when he was on holiday. Earlier this year after six years there, she left with her Dad to become a stewardess at Saltburn‟s Lune Street Club.

While working at the Cricket, Tennis and Bowls Club, she met her husband Donald, who came in as a cricketer. His family is part Scottish/part Canadian, but his Dad is a retired minister in Dundee and he married them there. “It was a brilliant weekend,” says Sarah, “and we came back to have a party in the Club!”

Several older members of her family have developed dementia over the years and she hit on the idea of taking part in a memory walk – an organised sponsored walk in aid of Alzheimer‟s Research UK. However, the nearest ones were taking place in South Shields and she thought this was too far away. In an email exchange with the charity, they suggested that Sarah should run her own and she has been planning this for friends and family in September. There will be a Just Giving web page for sponsors.

But sister Karen urged Sarah to do something in the meantime, so she checked with Harry Simpson whom she knew had started drawing up a dementia quiz and asked husband Donald to create more questions and to be quizmaster. Using Facebook, she appealed to a lot of different companies for raffle prizes. Some people said they couldn‟t come to the quiz, but would buy raffle tickets, so she stepped up her efforts to sell them in advance. The Club‟s Social Section, Bowls and Tennis players, friends and family formed teams and were joined by other local people who heard about it.

“As well, Donald and I are planning to do a sponsored climb of Ben Nevis next March,” she says. “This is a challenge and a half for me as I don‟t do exercise and I had a knee operation last November!”

Sarah is on her feet a lot though as a barmaid and at home, where she is an enthusiastic cleaner. “I like housework,” she explains. She and Donald are renovating their garden, but she leaves the physical work to him. She loved walking Jet, the black Labrador she and her Dad used to have and has a hankering after getting a Labrador bitch. She looks after her Mum‟s little white rabbit, Wiggles, when she‟s on holiday.

Sarah and Donald like going for walks up at Eden Castle and Guisborough Walkway; a few months ago, they enjoyed a walk to High Force. She loves to chill on Pyjama Days, when she reads. She has all of the Martina Coles and Kimberley Chambers books, but will give anything a try. She likes a wide range of music, including blues at the Cricket, Tennis and Bowls Club. “Harry Simpson organises some great bands and the Howzat Music Festival was fantastic!” she says. She went to the Radio 1 Big Weekend at Stewart‟s Park in May and to see Take That at the Riverside in June.

Baking is one of her hobbies when she has time. Donald‟s Mum has passed on some hand-written Canadian recipes to her and she‟s looking forward to making Canadian Meat Loaf and Grammie‟s Patties. Last spring, Sarah and Donald spent two weeks in Canada. After a few days in Toronto, they went to his family home on Prince Edward Island. She says: “It was very rural. We stayed on his Mum‟s ancestral family farm, which used to be dairy, but now grows wheat. The current generation is the fifth in his family to be running it!”

As well as planning September‟s memory walk and March‟s Ben Nevis climb, Sarah is looking forward to more fundraising in the future. Because of family experience, she would like to support a polio eradication charity as well as Alzheimer‟s Research UK. What a star!

1st Saltburn Scout Group

With the longest day fast approaching the weather seems determined to try and restrict all Section activities. Planning to go out and then having to change is bad enough; but to get out and then amend activities is as frustrating for Leaders as it is for the young people.

All Sections will be represented at the County Fun Day at Ormesby Hall; there are a variety of activities available which will amuse, entertain and enable Beavers, Cubs and Scouts to gain additional skills and knowledge. Similarly with the County Damboree (so named when held last year as it was a camp for Beavers); this year an invitation to the Cub Section to attend and join in the fun! The Cub Pack is joining with the Beaver Colony (ably led by Lindsey 1st Saltburn‟s Beaver Leader) with assistance from Jo, James and Philipa the Section Assistants; as well as several parents. They all have my thanks for this support as I was unable to attend owing to other commitments.

The Beavers have been out and about, their major disappointment when a planned fire-lighting activity had to be cancelled owing to the changeable weather! Their numbers remain constant at 20 and remain as keen to go out as ever; this despite the weather and at times both Leaders and parents‟ concerns. Cubs had an excellent evening with Rev. Adam Reed (assisted by Ross, leader of the church bell ringers) with an active and informative tour of Emmanuel Church. Not only discovering the inner workings of the bell tower, but also all the parts of the church; as well as what other things Adam undertakes in his role as Vicar of Saltburn. Many thanks for a wonderful evening, many of the Cubs completing their My Faith Activity Badge and assisting with the Our World Challenge Award.

Scouts have managed their favourite „clay mountain‟ challenge, games in the wood and a challenging treasure hunt all in pursuit of their desire to get out; often regardless of weather.

The Group held the Annual General Meeting, but attendance could have been far greater and was a disappointment to the Committee who have worked hard over the previous twelve months to ensure the continuation of the Group. Thanks to those parents who continue to assist with all Sections in their activities; if you can offer assistance or are interested in joining us, you would be very welcome. Please enquire.

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

Saltburn, Redcar & Cleveland Philatelic Society

The item shown above is a “postage stamp” banknote. It was issued during the American Civil War.

The design is based on the 5 cent postage stamp and the note could be redeemed in stamps at any post office. The issue of this note meant that metal for low denomination coins could be used instead for armaments. The Society is now closed for the months of July and August but will open its new season on Wednesday, 4th September.

We welcome New Members

Contacts:

Mr. G. Reynolds 01642 478229

Mr. M. Snowdon 01287 622504

Saltburn Line User Group

Next Meeting: Tuesday, 2nd July 2019 at 7.00pm.

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

As always, all welcome.

Talk to Saltburn Line User Group. The Group exists to protect passengers‟ interests. Find us at www.facebook.com/ saltburnlineusergroup

Email

Saltburn Allotments Association

We had a lot of rain in June which watered the extremely dry soil and if you took my advice from last month you will have had a barrel or two of water with any luck!

Now is the time to enjoy the fruits of our labours as everything is producing crops, hopefully!

Keep things watered and do this prudently. Water crops that are newly planted, setting or swelling fruit and developing roots. Water your greenhouse efficiently, making sure things don‟t dry out in the sun and keep humidity high to reduce pests. Mulch borders after any rain.

Harvest regularly to keep the plants producing, pick when young and tender, preserve your excess by freezing, drying and bottling and you could also share with friends and neighbours!

Keep on top of the weeds with a hoe or some hand weeding, removing bindweed, mare‟s tail and couch grass! Keep pulling and you will eventually weaken them.

There are still crops to sow and plant. Start spinach in pots now to give you good plants to overwinter or grow a perpetual variety? Sow more beetroot for a later crop, and winter brassicas like kale and purple sprouting broccoli. Keep planting lettuce for succession, herbs like basil and coriander, which can go over fairly quickly, and you can also plant Florence fennel, turnips and carrots or even Kohlrabi!

Keep your flowers coming to help the insect pest control team keep things healthy. Lots of Phacaelia, Marigold, fennel and even the humble dandelion all have a contribution. Encouraging hoverflies, ladybirds and parasitic wasps and of course all the pollinators to help set your fruit and veg.

The world we live in is filled with rubbish and we are asked to join the fight against plastic! This may not mean using no plastic but there are things we can all do as gardeners to reduce our waste, eliminating single use plastic. Reuse plastic pots as many times as much as you can! Wash off writing and reuse plastic labels replacing with wooden ones as they perish. Make pots out of paper for starting your seeds.

I am sure you can come up with your own ways of making a difference, get creative, keep plastic bags and boxes from foodstuffs and when you pass on veg to friends you can reuse them. Plastic is just one place to start, to help keep the world we live in in the best health and consequently ourselves too! The single use and other plastics break down and quite frighteningly leave their mark on the world and us even on the inside! Keep looking for ways you can reduce your impact on our fragile world.

I don‟t know about you, but I am looking forward to being able to sit back and appreciate my garden in the sunshine! And finally don‟t forget to keep our allotments looking at their best for Britain in bloom!

The Muses of Jim

Fortunately, my vandalised buddleia is slowly recovering but unfortunately won‟t flower this year but my other wild plants in my „what I call my wild garden‟ is attracting butterflies and different species of bees. On one of my daily inspections I found a dead fledgling that had either fallen out of the nest or died and had been thrown out. So, I returned it to the soil that we all must return to in one shape or other.

I had a very enjoyable holiday in Kent arranged by daughter number three, Jill. She had organised my bucket list. I tried claiming ownership of the village of Wingham but people just laughed and I couldn‟t even get a discount in the Anchor Inn; although they did give me a menu card that had the information of the history of the pub. I also visited the other seaside towns. Each one had a different character; it was quite interesting to watch the people. Betty would have loved it. One note of caution: the charity shops were rather expensive, probably because they are a better quality I assume. The hotel was nice but didn‟t have a bar but there was a separate building near the site. Whilst the prices were very expensive, the Tetley was very, very good. Sorry Doctors.

The saga of my license continues and I will continue for the bureaucrats to finish the work. But I do feel fine and many people have remarked that I am looking well. Although the latest development, it appears I have to have a sonic scan on my legs. So watch this space.

As people know, I have many interests, and I think a few skills, and I am very interested in the history of Saltburn and I was quite intrigued about the celebration of the pier and the confusion that the opening of the pier caused. It was true to say that they did plan to open it in May in 1869 but because of the speculative way that the company went about the construction, because they only bought iron when the price was low and unfortunately thus the quality wasn‟t as good as it perhaps should have been. Ten weeks before the planned opening, the price of iron soared so they delayed the opening until the price dropped and it was opened sometime in July, as recorded in the Newcastle Guardian, the Newcastle Daily Chronicle and the Leeds Mercury, May, June and July, 1869; showing that the pier wasn‟t completed until sometime in July 1869. It is often said that history is written by the winners so it is always to be treated with caution. The same speculators that developed Saltburn allowed deviation from the town plan by allowing people to buy plots in a haphazard manner. Thus, we lost Regent Circle and the Villas that were planned for camp bank. Sorry to be pedantic about these things but history is a malleable beast that should be told properly rather than doctored to fit the convenience of society.

Spud has just informed me that I haven‟t mentioned him so here goes. He wasn‟t very happy to be left for a few days although he was looked after in grand style by the residents of Leven Street, thank you very much.

Jim Wingham Julia

The Saltburn Crossword no 217 set by Dinosaur

Across

1 What most visitors to Saltburn will be having at this time of 5 down while she lied, say I do a reconstruction (7, 7)

6 What to do on Saltburn beach while on a 1 across? Distribute his fun slot! (6, 4)

9 Damage found in not charming (4)

12 Permit hiding fall owed much (5)

14 Given where it‟s due for money up front (6)

16 Acidic taste concealing also urban (4)

17 Many of us are led than fed about (4-6)

21 What to build on Saltburn beach while on a 1 across? Not without 33 across! (10)

23 Very small amount but actually a Greek letter (4)

25 City with a street in Saltburn (6)

27 Smell inserts a Read Only Memory into motoring organisation (5)

29 Call mean otherwise (4)

32 What to have on Saltburn beach while on a 1 across? Kind eye Rod sorts (6, 4)

33 Don‟t forget to take these to Saltburn beach while on a 1 across! Packed an‟ busted spilling (6, 3, 5)

Down

1 Don‟t forget to take this to Saltburn beach while on a 1 across! At noon insult freely distributed (6, 6)

2 Dreadful, initially amicable, while foolish under loads (5)

Name___________________________________

Address_________________________________

Telephone_______________________________

3 Meal served on this? (4)

4 Parasitic insect hidden. „Hello? User beware!‟ (5)

5 A 1 across at Saltburn could be the highlight of this annual time! (4)

7 Boots? Shoes? Straitjacket? Thrashed? Contaminated? (5)

8 Not that but… (4)

10 Smallest part of an element searching first four tomatoes (4)

11 Where to walk in Saltburn when on a 1 across? Repair made an amendment (6, 6)

13 Don‟t sow wild ones against the healthy grain (4)

15 Vehicles backing motoring organisation first second (4)

18 Common wildflower necessary for ships? (4)

19 Russian emperor part sarcastic (4)

20 Part of wildflower part of most emptiness (4)

22 Ancient Scandinavian to snore wildly (5)

24 Cancelled by a chopper? (4)

26 All verbs have one, often seen within (5)

28 Greek letter for zero game show (5)

30 Breed of racehorse far about bits (4)

31 Very dry in Spar identity (4)

Solution to Crossword no 216

The winner of last month‟s crossword was Roger Wright of Lumpsey Close, Brotton.

D. V. Townend & Co

8 Dundas Street East, Saltburn

TS12 1AH Country

Tel: (01287) 623754

Website: www.dvtownend.com

Email: info@dvtownend.com

Specialising in practical but stylish leisure and outdoor wear, we also stock a wide range of accessories, gifts and leather items from the most famous brands including Aigle, Magee, Seasalt and Tumble & Hide.

Send your completed crossword to: Saltburn Crossword no 217, c/o Jackie‟s Saverstore, 8 Station Buildings, Saltburn, TS12 1AQ by Friday, 19th July 2019. First correct solution out of the bag wins a £10 voucher kindly donated by Tim and Sheila of Real Meals.

Health and Happiness: Emotional Balance

“Sad deserted shore, your fickle friends are leaving. Ah but then you know it‟s time for them to go ... who knows where the time goes?” A beautiful song beautifully sung by Sandy Denny.

It has me thinking once again about time and about friendship. Have you ever thought what is your agreement with a given friend? What you would do for them and what you imagine they would do in return for you. It may be never talked about, you may trust them with your most precious object or to keep money safe for you or to always stand by you. You may feel sure that you would do this and more for them. But do they feel the same as you? Have you ever asked them, and would they if it really came to it?

What if your friend moved away and found a new partner, had a child, gathered a new group of friends, would your bond stay the same? Maybe. What if they committed a crime that you found disgusting or slept with your partner behind your back and without your consent, would you still stand by them? What if they changed and you stopped liking who they had become?

Relationships change; it takes new situations to find out how someone or yourself will react. You may be shocked. I‟ve had friends I‟ve felt totally committed to yet we‟ve each moved to new places, met new people and carried new beliefs and the friendships that were once so strong have drifted from the solidity of hard earth into dust blowing in the wind. I have always felt committed to my good friends but I have had to learn that some people let you down, they change, it doesn‟t really make sense to blame them for that. Yet equally like new shoots of life, there‟s always this wonderful potential every day for growing the new.

I wonder, do you call your friends more than they call you? If you mostly call them or go to see them is that a genuine friendship or an unequal unbalanced agreement? If you are happy to do more does this make you more generous than them or just more needy and insecure?

If you stop calling and arranging to meet and they don‟t respond so the connection stretches out until it so thin it can be called no more than an acquaintance. Had you been holding it together all along?

I think the question of what a friendship is, is fascinating when we look into it. It shapes around our own sense of security and insecurity and what we connect to and relate to. It can grow and shrink and it reflects our inner life, who we are and the things we want.

I‟ve learnt much from my friends including that the unspoken agreement is rarely matched equally. Yet each gives us a gift if we can see that beauty rather than complaining at what it is not. Some weave through a whole life, some stay for just a short time or come to teach us one thing, each is a magical alchemy.

Now what if we bring our attention to how we have a kind of friendship with ourselves. Can you keep liking yourself even when you feel you have let yourself down or failed or betrayed something? Your happiness relates strongly to cultivating this relationship with yourself more than any other relationship. Others may drift away while you won‟t stop walking with yourself through this life. It can at times be tempting to criticise ourselves and so come crashing down like a wave, hating who we are. Yet if the wave can stay forgiving and compassionate to the many aspects of ourselves then that most important relationship we have can remain peaceful and calm.

Sandy Denny sung with awareness of time passing and it‟s worth reflecting on what we do with the time we are given and the part we are playing in all our friendships but most importantly cultivating the friendship with ourselves that will last till the end of our life.

Kendal Aitken Happy Balance Training. Individuals and Groups. Contact: coach@happygreenblueeyes.co.uk or 07944 883961

“Thank You for the Music”

Silverwood Wind Band

Celebration Concert in memory of Barry Cope

Come and enjoy some of the best known melodies while raising funds to support the work of the Alzheimer’s Society

Emmanuel Church, Saltburn

Wednesday 24th July 2019 7.30pm

Admission £5 on the door.All proceeds toAlzheimer‟s Society.

Dementia

Everyone knows someone who has been affected by this most cruel disease.

This concert is in memory of Barry who died from dementia.

It doesn’t matter whether or not you knew Barry. YOU can help make a real difference by supporting this concert and encouraging family and friends to come too.

PLEASE help us raise much needed funds to support the work of the Alzheimer’s Society

£35.00