Tyne Valley Express Issue 28 2013

s s e r p ex TYNE

Issue 28 - May/June 2013

VALLEY

Hope we can help warm you up with the long awaited late Spring issue of TVE

Specialist Business of the Year 2010

Original Indian & Bengali Cuisine

Fully Licensed Restaurant & Takeaway

Owner Mr Angur Miah has had a long history of successful businesses for the last 25 years in the food industry. Starting off as kitchen porter in the late 60's Mr Miah has worked in several Indian restaurants acquiring a unique set of skills and qualities that has enabled him to perfect the Indian restaurant market.

Starting off his own first venture, a small takeaway in Fawdon Newcastle, Mr Miah has made history as one of the busiest small businesses in Newcastle.

Expanding his business, he opened a restaurant in Newcastle called Rumana's, an award winning 100 seater restaurant. Winning several awards for outstanding food, cleanliness and 5 star in food hygiene.

Now Mr Miah has opened a restaurant in Ryton, to add to the list of successful restaurants and to give a chance for the people of Ryton (and neighboring villages) to take advantage of the wonderful and unique taste acquired over the last 30 years.

The family run business in Miah Restaurant, can range from Traditional Indian Food, Bengali Cuisines and for those not too eager on Indian food, Omelettes, Steak and the good old fried chicken & chips, all made fresh by a chef that is a family member and personally trained

by Mr Miah himself.

The Staff at Miah restaurant are always friendly and are more than happy to help with any questions that you may have, wherever you would like a custom made dish or advice on trying a dish for the first time and want a recommendation.

If you haven't already, come in and try MIAH restaurant in Ryton and prepare to have your taste buds tingled with amazing quality food in a modern decor restaurant that is sparkling with cleanliness Book Now for a seat or call for a takeaway

Knole House, Lane Head, Ryton, NE40 3HF

Telephone: 0191 413 9400 or 0191 413 9500 Opening Hours: We are open Monday to Sunday 5:30 - 12.pm All major credit/debit cards accepted,

www.miahrestaurantandtakeaway.tel

ME E H C ES R G A P P E SCRA ECIAL OFF & SP

ft i l p u FREE delivery!

FREE

At Dickinsons, we know that disposing of your old mattress, bed or furniture can be a real hassle. Do you take it to the tip – but how do you get it there? Will a charity collect it if it has no up to date fire certificate?

Let us help! With every replacement mattress, bed or piece of furniture purchased at Dickinsons, your old item is uplifted and responsibly disposed of absolutely FREE. Not only this, but you will also receive FREE delivery for a limited period only.

Old furniture is sent to a specialist partner for dismantling and recycling or donated to a local charity then given to families for whom basic furniture items are currently out of reach.

THIS HASSLE FREE SCHEME IS AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY. www.dickinsonsfurnishers.com Hexham 1-3 Beaumont St. Tel: 01434 602617 Alnwick 39-41 Fenkle St. Tel: 01665 602040 Carlisle Victoria Viaduct Tel: 01228524231

TELEPHONE: 0191 414 0060 FREEPHONE: 0800 38 975 88

ALL OF OUR DRIVERS ARE CRB CHECKED

SET FARES We are proud to be able to offer a set fare for any journey, please enquire

us for to book will t e g r fo Don't rney we it turn jou your re ck for you be a e b th e ll m a co nd tation a y S a t, p r l o il p Air you w d n a ls Hospita me set fare the sa

SET FARES

at the time of booking

Set fares can be arranged for one off journeys or regular bookings. Our highly qualified dispatch clerks are always ready to assist with your enquiries.

We have a fleet of 35 vehicles, this includes 7 seater, 8 seater and wheelchair accessible vehicles. All of our drivers are uniformed and CRB checked (police approved and certified) and are NVQ trained to the Private Hire Standards approved by Gateshead Council.

Below is just an example of the set fares we offer, to request a set fare for your journey please enquire at the time of booking your taxi.

From

RVI

Freeman

Q.E

Central Stn

Airport

N/castle Bus Station

Blaydon

£9.00

£11.00

£11.00

£9.00

£11.00

£9.00

Winlaton

£10.00

£12.00

£12.00

£10.00

£12.00

£10.00

Ryton

£11.00

£14.00

£14.00

£11.00

£13.00

£11.00

Crawcrook

£13.00

£15.00

£15.00

£12.00

£14.00

£12.00

Greenside

£12.00

£14.00

£15.00

£12.00

£14.00

£12.00

Rowlands Gill

£13.00

£15.00

£15.00

£13.00

£16.00

£13.00

Swalwell

£10.00

£12.00

£11.00

£8.00

£11.00

£8.00

Winlaton Mill

£11.00

£13.00

£12.00

£10.00

£11.00

£10.00

High Spen

£15.00

£18.00

£17.00

£15.00

£18.00

£15.00

Chopwell

£17.00

£20.00

£17.00

£16.00

£20.00

£16.00

Blackhall Mill

£17.00

£20.00

£17.00

£16.00

£20.00

£16.00

Hamsterly

£17.00

£20.00

£17.00

£16.00

£20.00

£16.00

Hamsterly Mill

£16.00

£19.00

£16.00

£15.00

£19.00

£15.00

High Field

£14.00

£16.00

£16.00

£14.00

£17.00

£14.00

Whickham

£10.00

£13.00

£10.00

£9.00

£13.00

£9.00

* Add £2 for 7 or 8 seaters. £1 additional charge for Newcastle Airport terminal drop off/pick up.

24 HOUR SERVICE / 365 DAYS A YEAR BOOK YOUR TAXI NOW: 0191 414 0060

Contents 7.

8.

11.

12.

17.

19.

20.

22.

25.

26.

27.

29.

30.

32.

37.

40.

42.

44.

45.

46.

51.

53.

55.

59.

61.

62.

Famous Five

Regular columnists...

Editor Local Photography Ryton What’s On Jack & Jo’s Keepmoat Homes: The Woodlands Greenside What’s On Crawcrook What’s On Lisa Jacobs column Keepmoat Homes: St. Agnes Wylam & Ovingham What’s On Heddon & Horsley What’s On Prudhoe What’s On Elizabeth Evans: celebrating 60 years in business!

The Car & Van Centre Prudhoe Community Arts Week National Trust What’s On Stocksfield What’s On Corbridge What’s On Balman Gallery Hexham What’s On Roger Clegg column Belinda Ambrose column Queen’s Hall Hexham What’s On Darras Hall & Ponteland What’s On Joanne Major column Eliza Pepperpot

Front Cover Photography The Angel Inn Corbridge

by Roger Clegg Photography.

Belinda Ambrose Belinda explores the ‘baby led weaning’ philosophy, allowing babies to find out about food for themselves.

Roger Clegg As spring progresses, Roger changes from landscape photography to placing people into his photography.

Joanne Major Make Merry in May. Joanne celebrates the May Day Bank Holiday and explains its origins.

Lisa Jacobs Lisa reflects on our beautiful Northumbrian countryside and the fantastic sunsets money just can’t buy.

Eliza Pepperpot What better than having fresh home-made jam on a scone with a dollop of fresh cream? A little bit of what you fancy doesn’t go a-miss.

What’s On?

Recognise any of these places?

Northumberland, and our own Tyne Valley, have some truly spectacular hidden treasures, often where you least expect it.

If these little images have got you intrigued, read through our ‘What’s On’ sections to not only find out what’s on, but also where the Tyne Valley photographer has been this month!

What’s On listings are free.

If you’d like to advertise a community event, simply... email: enquiries@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

*

May/June 2013 - features

*free single vision standard lenses on purchase of complete spectacles

Jack and Jo’s p12

Keepmoat Homes p17 & 25

From bedding to basket plants, and patio to perennials. Jack and Jo’s, helping your garden grow, from this hidden gem in Ryton.

A range of affordable new homes available with the Goverments 20% interest free loan in High Spen and Crawcrook.

Call us now on 01661 832564

YEARS Evans Opticians p30 Elizabeth 60 elizabethevans

opticians Elizabeth Evans are celebrating their 60th elizabethevans 23 Front Street, Prudhoe, Northumberland NE42 5HN info@evansopticians.co.uk t: 01661 832 564 Anniversary of business in Prudhoe, with a fun 19 53 - 2013 personal weekend and incredible offers. & professional eyecare

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

5

Residential

Architectural aluminium systems.

At Metal Services, we offer a choice of Aluminium Glazing Systems, so that the appropriate product can be matched with your criteria.

All of our services are fully supported by a site specific, comprehensive survey, method statement, risk assessment and Health and Safety plan.

As a company we pride ourselves on our quality of service and installation, and ensure projects undertaken are professionally and personally managed throughout.

All work is fully guaranteed.

Commercial

Why Aluminium?

Products

Accreditations:

• • • •

• Doors (folding, sliding,

• • • •

Strength Durability low-maintenance Won’t warp, rot or rust • Available in any colour.

hinged, pivot, automatic).

• Windows (casement, pivot, slide, tilt/turn).

• Secondary Double Glazing • Roof Lights • Curtain Walling

ISO9001 Constructionline CHAS CSCS

Retail

Metal Services Limited - Ryton Industrial Estate, Newburn Bridge Road, Blaydon on Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE21 4SQ.

Tel: 0191 414 0944 | Fax: 0191 414 0914

E-mail: sales@metalservices.co.uk | www.metalservices.co.uk

Editor’s page Spring may not quite have made it around the corner yet but there is plenty in bloom across the Tyne Valley We are very excited to welcome you to the late spring edition of the Tyne Valley Express, seeking to promote the fantastic events going on throughout the Valley this springtime. Our pages are full to the brim of new and interesting goings on in the region.

Helping us take advantage of the spring sunshine, Jack & Jo’s (featured on page 12) at Ryton have some fabulous flora to help get your garden growing. With special offers galore, gifts and a delivery service, they extend a rosy welcome to one and all.

Encouraging us to get out and about, the National Trust has a wealth of activities for all of the family to get involved in. Wander across to page 40 for further information and join in the fun. Capturing the beauty of the Tyne Valley with his camera, Roger Clegg’s exquisite photography can be enjoyed on page 8. If that’s not encouragement enough to head outside, our columnist Lisa shares (page 22) about how priceless and wonderful the Valley is.

Here at Express Towers, we love to celebrate with the people of the valley. Firstly, we’re

delighted to join with Elizabeth Evans as they reach their 60th birthday milestone. Head to their feature on page 30 and join in with the June extravaganza. Secondly, we are pleased to announce the Prudhoe Community Arts Week. Page 37 highlights a week of community based activities to try, enjoy and explore as the creatively skilled people of Prudhoe and beyond share what they get up to. An opportunity not to be missed as the community showcases its finest talent.

As you skip through the Tyne Valley, we wish you all the very best as you explore and discover more hidden treasures this spring time.

expr ess T

VALYNE LEY

Issu e

Sailing into May, we welcome back columnist Joanne Major as she tells us all about May Day on page 61. Belinda Ambrose can be found on page 53, sharing and encouraging with us the concept of baby led weaning.

If you’re looking for something to do on the extra days off during May, the Balman Gallery in Corbridge have some superb artwork from Matisse on display. Keeping us firmly rooted in the way of Tyne Valley theatre, the Queen’s Hall in Hexham swing wide their doors with a whole host of entertainment (page 55) for your enjoyment. The Tyne Valley Youth Theatre (page 43) also take to the spotlight once again, treading the boards with “Two Households”.

28 -

Hop war e we ca m n the you up help lo w Spr ng awa ith ing/ it Sum ed issu m e of er TVE

Spec

ialist Bu

siness

of the

Year 20

10

God Bless Robert and the Tyne Valley Team.

Advertising with Tyne Valley Express

Getting an advert in TVE is not as expensive as you think. Adverts start from as little as £50.00 in our full colour glossy publication and with free design of your advert offered, business of any size can advertise in the huge free household distribution Express publication.

So you could soon be in front of over 60,000 Tyne valley residents with your own professional advert.

Contact us for further details quoting “ Get on board the Express” Email enquiries@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

Distribution Area: Households and businesses in: Hexham, Darras Hall, Ponteland, Corbridge, Stocksfield, Riding Mill, Wylam, High Mickley, Broomley, Hindley, Clara Vale, Mickley, Ovingham, Ovington, Prudhoe, Wylam, Horsley, Heddon on the Wall, Crawcrook, Coalburns, Greenside and Ryton.

Delivered free through the post to thousands of households and every business in our distribution area. Also placed at Doctor’s surgeries and Community organisations.

Telephone: 0191 499 0777 E-MAIL sales@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk enquiries@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk artwork@tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

TYNE VALLEY EXPRESS

Unit 8 Blaydon Business Centre Cowen Road, Blaydon On Tyne NE21 5TW

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

7

May

/June

2013

Summer in the Tyne Valley

8

by Roger Clegg

Roger Clegg - www.northern-horizons.co.uk www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

9

d gs n a in n m h c e n ev 7p u L ly ill r t a e 12

s o l e g n a l e ich ant r u a t s Re

l a i c Sp e r e f f O

l a e M e s r u o C 3 Y L N O r fo

5 4 . ÂŁ5

s o l e g n a l e h c i ant r u a t s e R

Stella Road, Ryton. NE21 4LU Tel: 0191 413 2921 Fax: 0191 413 4495 Hilltop, Dipton, Co Durham DH9 9JY Tel: 01207 571040 Email: Michelangelos@live.co.uk www.michelangelohotel.co.uk

Ryton what’s on?

Ryton Towers Summer BBQ Ryton Towers will be holding a summer BBQ on 29 June at 2pm with Jessica Irving singing, BBQ food served and a raffle. £3.50 for adults, £2.50 for children under 12 and £1 for children under 3.

Ryton Summer Festival 11am-11pm Sat 6th July: music, crafts, food and fun: anyone interested in booking a stall or attraction contact Steve Williamson c/o Charles Thorp Comprehensive School 0191 4132113 or visit www.rytonsf.co.uk Ryton Methodist Church Every Thursday: MINI MESSY CHURCH: 1.30pm to 2.30pm Free coffee, songs, stories and messy craft activities for pre school children.

Last Saturday of month: MESSY CHURCH. 4pm to 6.30PM. Fun, food, worship and messy craft activities for all the family. It’s church alright – but not how you would ever imagine it!

Contact Judith Stoddart on 07979 481 019 / judith@thischurch.com to book a place.

Ryton Community Library Opening hours Saturdays 9.00 – 1.00; Mondays 12.30-5.30; and Thursdays: 9.00-1.30 (Coffee Stop open in church hall above). Rhymetime for under 5s every Monday from 2.00 p.m.

Library entrance is opposite Ryton Deli, down from Barclay’s Bank.

Ryton Choral Society New singers always welcome at our regular Tuesday rehearsals, 6.45 p.m. in Charles Thorp School Main Rd, Ryton.

Holy Cross Church, Ryton Village Join us for worship Sundays: 08.00 am Holy Communion 10.00 am Parish Communion with Young Church 1st Sunday in the month at 4.30 pm The Ark For pre-school children and their families - songs, stories, activities and tea.

2nd Sunday in the month at 6.00 pm Evensong The traditional Prayer Book service sung with Anglican Chant.

4th Sunday in the month at 8.00 pm Iona Worship.

Contemporary contemplative.

Thursdays at 10.00 am Holy Communion Followed by coffee and a chat in the Parish Hall.

Sunday 19th May at 4.00 pm a Dramatic Reading for Pentecost entitled TO BE WITH YOU FOREVER Open Days Holy Cross Church is open to visitors every Thursday in May and June between 10.30am - 4.30pm.

Holy Cross Parish Hall Thinking of holding a party or celebration? Holy Cross Parish Hall may be the perfect venue. Telephone 0191 4132453 for further details.

Holiday & After School Child Care @ Ryton Rangers Out Of School Club Ages 4-11 Years. Free sample session

for new starters. Contact-Sharon Neil, Ryton, Crawcrook & District Youth Centre. Tel. 0191 4132053 U3A Ryton We are a friendly group with a membership of about 100, mostly retired and new members are always welcome.

All the group activities take place at Barmoor Youth Centre except where stated.

Weekly Mondays Craft Group 1.45pm-3.45 Tuesday Carpet Bowls 9.30-11.30 Wednesday Carpet Bowls 9.30-11.30 Thursday Carpet Bowls 9.30-11.30 Thursday Art Group 10am -12 Monthly 4th Tuesday History 2pm-3.30 1st Wednesday COFFEE MORNING 10am-11 (a good time to come and meet us) 2nd Wed Music Appreciation 3rd Wed GENERAL MEETING 2pm usually with an interesting speaker.

4th Wed Board Games 2pm-4pm 3rd Thursday Reading Group 2pm meeting at Crawcrook Library 2nd Friday Gardening Group 1pm venues as on the notice board Friday Senior Stroller following the Wednesday General Meeting usually meeting in Ryton Co-op Car park 10am. Other activities include social and cultural visits .

Councillor Surgeries - Councillor Alex Geddes and Councillor Liz Twist Ryton Methodist Church Hall Third Saturday of the month 10.00–11.30am STARGATE HALL Last Saturday of the month ~ 10.00–11.00am STELLA, PARISH ROOM, ST MARY AND ST THOMAS AQUINAS RC CHURCH Last Saturday of the month - 11.15am– 12.15pm (No surgeries in August, Christmas or on Public Holidays) You can contact Alex on 0191 413 1574 or Liz on 0191 413 9896 You can also email us atcllr.ageddes@gateshead.gov.uk orcllr.ltwist@gateshead.gov.uk Ryton Litter Action Group We’re a group of volunteers aiming to keep Ryton, and the surrounding area, free from litter. We litter pick every 2-3 weeks from 10am-12noon on Sunday mornings. For details, check the website www.litteraction.org.uk/ ryton-litter-action, email Andrew at rytonlitteraction@hotmail.co.uk or phone Lisa 07747 805175. Come and join us for some fresh air and exercise.

It’s very rewarding!

SINGING FOR FUN Come along and join our group.

Men and women of all ages welcome.

A chance to blow off some steam, meet new friends and have fun!

Monday 6:45 - 8:45 Willows Lounge (Ryton Social Club) Contact Jessica

07506830467 for more info.

Yoga Classes In Ryton Yoga for All. Tuesday 9.30am -11am, Wednesday 6.30pm - 8pm. Drop-in class £4.50. Holy Cross Church Hall, Ryton, NE40 3QC. Linda Irving 0191 413 8609 e-mail: linda@yogalinda.org.uk Dancing Sequence and Ballroom at Ryton Rugby Club every Tuesday 8 – 11pm. Friendly atmosphere. New members welcome.

Dance hall newly re-furbished.

Enquiries Tel: 01661 834 176 Strictlee Ballroom Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes at Ryton Rugby. Wednesday evenings, Beginners 7.05pm, Improvers 8.00pm. All Welcome! Contact Jean Hodgkinson for further information on 0191 4137989 or 07831 101221.

Ryton Local History Society Meets on the last Thursday of the month at 7pm in Crawcrook Library.

For further details contact 0191 4138164.

Movers and Shakers Pre-School Dance Music and movement classes for pre-school children and their parents and carers. Ryton Methodist Church Hall (entrance on Grange Road) on Wednesday mornings 9.30-10.30am.

Term time only,. £3 per child per session

(£1 each for siblings), payable on the door. Alison 07775 760670 Pre-School Movers New movement and dance class for pre-school children aged 3-4. Ryton Methodist Church Hall (entrance on Grange Road). Wednesday afternoons 12.30-1.15pm. Term time only. £20 per child per term (sibling discount available). Alison 07775 760670 Parent and Toddler Groups Monday 9.30am – 11.00am Holy Cross Church Hall, £2. All Welcome Friday 9.30am – 11.30am (NCT Group) Holy Cross Church Hall, - £2.

All Welcome Ryton, Crawcrook and District Youth Centre, Barmoor.

Table Top Sale Saturday 15th June 12.30 - 3.30pm Table Cost £5.00 Contact 0191 4132053 Refreshments available.

Parking also available at Ryton Rugby Club. Free Entry.

Ryton Ladies Netball 7.30 – 9pm Charles Thorp Comprehensive – Old Sports Hall – More information call Leanne on 07427 921402 Find us on Facebook – Ryton Ladies Netball

E.Peart Ltd

Local Funeral Directors A dignified and caring service from a long established independant company We offer a complete service, day or night for personal attention covering ALL areas.

Personally supervised by Mr D. Johnstone

RYTON: 0191 413 2318 (24 hours)

1 Kepier Chare, Crawcrook, Ryton. Tyne & Wear, NE40 4TS

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

11

Ryton

Jack & Jo’s

Hedgefield Farm main road between Stella and Ryton Here at Jack & Jo’s, we’re passionate about growing, opening from March 1st right through until the end of September. We began our business almost three years ago and in that time, we have begun to bloom.

Located in Ryton, we have three access routes into the farm, with the main one being just off the main road at Ryton, turning into Hedgefield Farm. This year, we are looking to become even more accessible by installing a disabled ramp. While manageable at present, we know this can be improved.

From bedding to basket plants, and patio to perennials, Jack & Jo’s are here to meet all of your gardening needs. We also stock a range of trees, shrubs and climbers as well as bamboos, alpines and herbs. To enable you to make the most of your gardening purchases, we currently have a range of quirky pots, troughs and baskets. In addition, we have a spectacular offer on compost bags. Pop along and pick up three bags for £12 and kick start your gardening season. Why not take advantage of our potting service while you’re here or bring along your own pots and pay only for plants and additional compost?

We love to offer people the chance to come and work alongside us as we nurture our plants and trees. We particularly encourage those with learning difficulties, ill health and injuries to come and spend some time potting and planting. Whether for an hour or a whole day, we are delighted to welcome both children and adults, along with their parents and carers, to get involved in this project. We have received very positive feedback, with many guests finding this a very peaceful environment to be in, and enjoying the benefits it gives to others. Despite our gardening season running from March to the end of September, we continue these community projects all year round.

Other activities include painting garden furniture, washing pots and planters and other jobs as we prepare for the new season to come round.

Currently, Jack & Jo’s is run by an incredible team of volunteers. We would like to take this opportunity to extend a huge thank you to you all, we really appreciate and value all that you bring and contribute to the nurseries. As we plough forward, we are keen to invest and develop our facilities such as install toilets, clear land, build new fencing etc. We also are seeking relevant grant funding to support us in our new ventures. If you are interested in getting involved in any of the above, please do contact us. We would love to have you on board!

While we continue to grow, we have plans to turn the farm buildings into dorms suitable for Scouts and other groups who may like to spend time here. In turn, these facilities could also be used to support respite care activities and projects.

As we move further into spring, we warmly invite you to come and visit us at Jack & Jo’s. Whether you’re picking up a plant for yourself, or a gift for someone else, we’re sure to have the perfect item to help your garden grow.

Don’t forget, we also offer a delivery service within 5 miles and this is free on orders above £25!

Large Car Park Debit Cards Taken Parking alongside tunnels for easy accsess In winter we open 1 Dec for Holly Wreaths and Christmas Trees, orders taken from end of November.

Are you wanting to carry out alterations or extend your home and don’t know where to start?

Then please give us a call to discuss our complete design and plans drawn service.

We can also offer assistance with the appointment of building contractors.

FREE

INITIAL CONSULTATION

Planning & Building Regulations Applications Extensions - Alterations - Refurbishments

Blaydon Architectural Design Tel: 0191 413 5595 Mobile: 07763 131 739 email: blaydon.design@btinternet.com www.blaydonarchitecturaldesign.com

12

Ryton PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL SERVICES 24/7/365

By Time Served City & Guild Tradesmen

Supply and fit prices from.....

Full Bathroom Suite, W.C. Basin and Bath ............ £2000 Mobility Bathroom ....................................................... £2900 Walk In Shower Enclosure & Tray ............................... £660 Walk In Bath .................................................................... £1900 Shower Stool (fully adjustable) ..................................... £65 Grab Rails............................................................................... £45 Need an extra toilet understairs ............................. £1400 Outside Tap (wash the car/dog) ......................................£85

Tile Walls & Floors per square meter............................ £25 Full House Rewire, 10 sockets, 10 lights, fuse box ......... £2800 New Fuse Box 10 way RCD ............................................ £380 Outside 13 amp Socket IP55 ...........................................£85 Kitchen/Bathroom Extractor Fan ................................ £180 Replacement Electric Shower ...................................... £220 Security Infra Red Flood Light .....................................£140 Intruder Alarm P.I.R. System ..........................................£390

For A Fast Friendly Service Call Derek on:

07866 24/7/365 or 0191 413 7282 Head Office: The Lodge, Ryton, Tyne & Wear

We cover all the Tyne Valley and surrounding areas.

I Mobile Valets by

From 4x4’s to luxury sports carts, caravans, taxis and more, every vehicle deserves that showroom look.

From the moment you choose Valets by Valentino, you can be sure your vehicle is in safe hands. The products and equipment we use are of the highest quality and what’s more, the versatility and flexibility of our services means that you can keep your vehicle in showroom condition and have complete control over costs.

Slimming World Jo i

na

war m

a nd f

r ie ndl y

. .I ’m the mum I always wanted to be! Jackie x

group near you today...

MONDAYS Greenside

SAVE

£5

half price

St John’s Community Hall, Greenside Road

7pm

NEW GROUP OPENING from 7th JANUARY

Contact Amanda: 07894 284 343

membership until 18th May 2013

PLUS ! your ULTIMATE SLIMMING GUIDE

It’s never been so easy!

amanda.j.greener@hotmail.com

Mob: 07837 028690 Tel: 0191 4135332 E-mail: valentino13@hotmail.co.uk

0844 897 8000

www.slimmingworld.com

SW on

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

13

Ryton BJC PLUMBING

BATHROOM & KITCHENS BATHROOMS FULLY FITTED from £2995 KITCHENS FULLY FITTED from £2595 ● ● ●

WE ALSO OFFER SUPPLY ONLY FREE QUOTES 0%FINANCE AVAILABLE SUBJECT TO STATUS

8B TUNDRY WAY BLAYDON NE21 5SJ

TEL 0191 414 8603

COME ALONG TO OUR SHOWROOM OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

www.bjcplumbing.com

SKG Accounting Services Ltd Looking after you and your business

SELF ASSESMENT 2012 –2013 from £120 If you are a Sole Trader, Partnership, Small Business or an Individual who is required to complete a Self-Assessment Return to HMRC Other services: RTI Payroll, Monthly book-keeping, VAT, Annual Accounts, Company Incorporation, Machine Games Duty, CIS, Business Plans, HMRC Registrations

●

●

●

● ● ● ●

We can manage your tax affairs and deal with HMRC in respect of all the necessary formal requirements All our clients TAX Returns are filed on line directly with HMRC at no additional cost Your Tax Return is prepared discussed with you prior to submission at one low fixed cost Free No Obligation Quotation No initial consultation fee Home visits can be arranged Discounted rates for pensioners

Unit 7 Addison Estate, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear, NE21 4TE

Tel: 0191 4144409 Fax 0191 4990075 skgmain@gmail.com

Office Hours Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 4.30pm Out of hour available by appointment

14

Ryton No 50% Sale No FREE Appliances Just honest Value for Money!

Fully fitted Kitchens from £2995 Bathrooms from £2995 Bedrooms from £1295

kit chens & bat hroom s lt d

Tel: 0191 414 2438 Mobile: 07825 337 885 Email: paul@simmerandsoak.co.uk

www.simmerandsoak.co.uk

Unit 4, Blaydon Business Centre, Cowden Road, Blaydon, NE21 5TW

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

15

Greenside

The very best care for your loved ones If you are currently searching for a care home offering the highest standards of nursing or residential care as well as specialist care for people with dementia, come and visit one of our homes local to you and see how we can make a difference.

So drop in to any of our homes for a cup of tea and chat and discover how Care UK can help you find the best care for your loved one.

Visit us or call: Hadrian House

Our homes specialise in quality, personalised care and aim to ensure every resident experiences:

Garden Street Blaydon Gateshead NE21 4AG

• • Comfort and reassurance • Respect and dignity

Thornhill Road Ponteland Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE20 9PZ

0333 321 1945

Ponteland Manor 0333 321 1940

Care UK has nursing and residential homes throughout the UK. For more information visit: www.careuk.com www.careuk.com/our-services/care-and-support-older-people/your-care-and-support-options/care-homes

16

Greenside Show home opens its doors at The Woodlands Housing developer, Keepmoat has opened its doors to a brand new show home at its development in the village of High Spen.

The company has unveiled a three bedroom Ashby show home at its popular Woodlands scheme and is offering buyers the chance to purchase a new home through the Government’s Help to Buy scheme, which is aimed at helping people with smaller deposits get a foot on the housing ladder.

The development consists of 25 two and three bedroom homes, making it ideal for first time buyers, couples or growing families and prices range from £90,396* for a two bedroom Normanby to £121,596* for a three bedroom Oakhurst.

The Ashby, which is available from £99,996* on the Help to Buy scheme, is a well proportioned family home with a spacious kitchen/diner, a light and airy lounge, WC and rear garden. Upstairs, the property features three bedrooms and a family bathroom.

The two-and-a-half storey Oakhurst town house is one of Keepmoat’s most popular properties and is available from £121,596* on Help to Buy. It includes a spacious kitchen/diner, lounge and WC on the ground floor, two bedrooms and a family bathroom on the first floor and a large master bedroom and en-suite bathroom on the second floor.

Help to Buy offers buyers who have saved a 5% deposit the chance to take advantage of a five-year interest free loan covering 20% of the value of the

property. The remaining 75% of the property’s value will be funded through a mortgage, which Keepmoat can help buyers to arrange.

Christine Harrison, Sales Director for Keepmoat North East, said: “Our Woodlands development in High Spen is proving to be popular amongst potential homeowners with buyers already reserving plots.

“The development is in a great location offering the best of country living while still providing easy access to nearby towns and cities.

“We have just opened up a new show home for potential buyers to view. With a variety of homes on offer and financial assistance available through Help to Buy, people may even find it cheaper to buy a new home at The Woodlands than to rent.”

For more information on The Woodlands, please visit the show home at Strothers Road, High Spen, NE39 2HR between 10.00am and 5.00pm Thursday to Monday. Alternatively, please call our home sales executive on 01207 664 155 or visit www.keepmoat.com. * Help to Buy prices quoted represent 80% of the full purchase price. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. The equity loan is held as a second charge on the property. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject to status and available on selected properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Details and prices correct at time of going to press. Images representative only.

The Woodlands Strothers Road, High Spen NE39 2HR

First move, next move,

Help to Buy is here for ALL The government Help to Buy* scheme makes buying your first, or next, home as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. You need a deposit of 5% 2. You can qualify for a 20% interest-free government loan 3. You only need a 75% mortgage

EPMOAT THAT’S THE KE

PROMISE 2 & 3 bedroom homes from £112,995 That’s just £90,396* with Help to Buy Talk to us about how we can make your move happen

01207 664 155 keepmoat.com We’re open Thursday – Monday, 10am – 5pm

For all the latest on moving, follow @keepmoat on twitter or become a fan on facebook *Help to Buy price of £90,396 represents 80% of the full purchase price of £112,995. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. The equity loan is held as a second charge on the property. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject to status and available on selected properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Details and prices correct at time of going to press. Images representative only.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

17

I Slimming World Jo i

na

war m

a nd f

r i e ndl y

. .I ’m the mum I always wanted to be! Jackie x

group near you today...

St John’s Community Hall, Greenside Road

7pm

until 18th May 2013

ULTIMATE SLIMMING GUIDE

It’s never been so easy!

amanda.j.greener@hotmail.com

www.slimmingworld.com

membership

PLUS ! your

Contact Amanda: 07894 284 343

0844 897 8000

£5 half price SAVE

MONDAYS Greenside

SW on

Greenside what’s on?

St John’s Community Hall Now available for bookings!

For more information, please contact Christine Ball, Volunteer Chair of St John’s Community Hall 0191 4782085 or email Stjohnscommunityhall@ greensideparish.org.uk and a bookings form can be downloaded from www.greensideparish.org.uk Monday 4-5pm Children’s Badminton Contact Claire Lapworth sharparlo@ aol.com - 6.30pm Slimming World Contact Amanda Greener on 01661 831299; 07894 284343 amanda.j.greener@hotmail.com Tuesday 4-5pm Children’s Badminton Contact Claire Lapworth sharparlo @aol.com Thursday 9.30-11am Footprints (pre-school play & learn) Contact Rachel Spencer 0191 6596714; 07976757116 6-8pm Crawcrook Judo Club Contact John Pattison 0191 4476836 Saturday 9am-12noon Crawcrook Judo Club Contact John Pattison 0191 4476836

Greenside Community Centre MONDAY Zumba class 9.15 am - 10.15 am Zumbagold 10. 30 am - 11.30am (slightly less strenuous!)

French Class 1pm - 3pm Bowen Therapy 1pm - 6pm Dog Club Obedience classes 6.30 pm - 9 pm Women’s Inst. 7.00 pm 1st Monday in month except Bank Holidays (contact J. Madine 4136870) TUESDAY Yoga class1.30pm - 3pm contact 0191 4137653 Youth Club 7pm- 9pm Greenside Local History Group 7 pm 9 pm 1st Tuesday in month German Shepherd Dog club 7 - 9 pm WEDNESDAY Carpet Bowls 1.30 pm - 4 pm Zumba Class 6.15 pm - 7.15pm Keep Fit class 7.30 pm - 9 pm THURSDAY Sugarcraft Class 10am - 12 Tai Chi Class 10.30 am - 11.30am Puppy Dog Training 7.15pm - 9.45 pm Cycle Club 1st Thursday in month 7pm - 9pm FRIDAY

Genesis Computers

Karate Club 6.30 pm - 9pm Councillors’ Surgeries last Friday in month 7pm SATURDAY Zumba Class 9.30am - 10.30am Large Hall, supper room and kitchen available for children’s parties, entertainment and other activities.

A warm welcome is given to all our clubs and activities.

Booking secretary A Pyle Tel. 01914132023 Further information can be found at www.greensidecommunity.co.uk RNLI Gateshead Branch Local meetings to arrange support for this life saving charity. For meeting

times contact Mrs Brenda Graham on 0191 413 8593 Committee room and kitchen £10 per hour, Whole hall £15 per hour Day time party-children etc-£25 from 12 till 5pm only. Evening parties-flat rate £60 after 6pm till 12pm only Regular hall bookings may be given discounted rate if long term hire is guaranteed. Contact - Christine Bainbridge - 0191 413 7600 Baby and Toddler Group Every Monday 9.15am – 10.45am at Greenside Primary School. 50p per session.

Brian W Scott

Plumbing & Heating Services

We are a new company that specialises in the repair and maintenance of Windows machines including laptops. All versions of windows are supported up to Windows 8.

Free estimates are a new company that specialises in Special rates for Senior Citizens epair and maintenance of Windows No job is too small Whether you haveAll a virus or simply hines including laptops. versions want more memory we can help indows are supported up to Windows 8.

We also supply second hand systems at se contact us with your various requirements. prices.

Please contact for details. estimates. Special rates for Senior zens. No job is too545566 small.M:Whether you Tel: 01207 07722408758 Email: genesiscomputers2@gmail.com e a virus or simply want more memory www.genesiscomputers.weebly.com an help. also supply second hand systems at ous prices. Please contact for details.

l

l

Combi Boiler Installations & Repairs, Servicing & Power flushing

l l

● ● ● ●

Full Heating Installations 5 Year Guarantee on new boilers Over 30 years experience Free Magna clean with every new combi boiler

Telephone: 01207 272 548 Mobile: 07889 699673 www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

REGISTER

19

Crawcrook Crawcrook Surgery are looking for current patients who would like to take part in their patient forum. The forum is your opportunity to meet the practice staff and other patients. It’s not a place to air personal grievances, but to work in a team, with the Practice, towards improving our service. So, if you want to make a suggestion – no matter how modest or grand - and regardless of your age, ethnicity or orientation, come and discuss it with us. Our next patient forum will be held on Thursday 8th June at 6pm. If you would like to attend, please contact our Patient Engagement Officer at paulawright6@nhs.net.

Also check online for updates at www. crawcrookmedicalcentre.nhs.uk Crawcrook and Greenside Environment Group Are you interested in the local environment and would you like to get out and do some local environmental activities? The next meeting of the Environment Group will be on Tuesday June 18th at 7.00pm in Crawcrook Club. The environment group is holding a pub quiz to raise funds for LocalEnvironmental activities including tree and flower planting.Please join us at Crawcrook Club at 7:30pm on Wednesday 12th June£2.50 entry.

Please come and help out with local

? n o s ’ t wha

flower planting. 2pm 26th May, meeting at Crawcrook Park, main entrance. Bring the kids!

Crawcrook Centenary Methodist Church - Sun - 10.15am - 11.30am Sunday school age 2+ 10.15 - 11.30am Morning Worship 10.30am Evening worship 6.00pm Toddler Group Mon - 9.30 - 11am term time only.

Coffee Time with Devotions Alternate weeks, look out for the banner Tues - 10 am- 11.15am Ladies Friendship Group 2pm Various speakers, time for a cup of tea and chat Bible Study 7.30pm (alternate weeks, please ring for details) Indoor Bowls Wed -10am - 12 noon Club Junior Endeavour 6 - 7pm ages 3-8 Club 812 7.15pm ages 8 - 12 Craft Club and Coffee morning Thurs - 10am - 12noon 1- 3pm Craft Club (card making, cross stitch, knitting and painting) 7.30pm Youth Fellowship age 11+ Church Fellowship Friday - 7.30pm (alternate weeks please ring for details) Coffee Morning Bi - monthly lunch club Sat - 10am - 12 noon - Fridays at 12noon. For further information on any event please ring Trevor Peart 01914134819 or e-mail to

centenary@thischurch.com Prudhoe Gleemen Concert, Crawcrook Centenary Methodist Church, Saturday 15 June 7pm. Tickets £4.00 or children free available on the door.

Emmaville Primary School Toddlers Group Every Tuesday 1:30pm – 3:00pm Kids R Fit Group Every Monday 9:00am – 9:50am. Both Groups are in the Main Hall (Term time only) Crawcrook Library Rhymetime Preschool. Contact 0191 4138164 or call in at the Library to discuss days/times etc.

Local Councillors: Ward Surgery First Saturday of the month 10.00am Reading Group - Meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7.00 – 9.00pm.

Come along to read & discuss books.

Holy Spirit Church, Crawcrook Coffee Stop Every Tuesday 9am – 2pm.

Drop in for coffee, cake and fellowship.

Art Stop - From 1pm-3pm (term time only) during Coffee Stop, we have Art Stop where you can get involved in all things artistic.

Hall Hire Church of the Holy Spirit hall hire Contact Helen Hardisty on 0191 4137279 Parish Prayer Time Every Wednesday 8.15am – 9am Holy Communion Service

Car and Motorcycle MOT, Tyres, Exhausts and Batteries Automotive Repairs, Electronic diagnostics Class I, II and IV tested Good Garage Scheme Member

GREENSIDE ROAD, CRAWCROOK, RYTON, NE40 4LF 0191 413 86 96 20

Every Wednesday 9.15am – 10am Sunday Services including Children’s & Youth Ministries Every Sunday 10am – 11.30am.

Services alternate between Holy Spirit, Crawcrook and St John’s, Greenside.

Check the website for service information and lots more. www.greensideparish.org.uk Crawcrook Women’s Institute Meets the third Monday of the month at 6.45pm –Emmaville Hall. Please contact Mary Brooks - 0191 413 4170 ALL NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Crawcrook Slimming World Emmaville Hall every Wed 5pm and 7pm. Contact Amanda 0789 428 4343 Clara Vale Village Hall We have a number of regular activities take place at the hall. Anyone is welcome to attend without booking:Wednesday Evening from 8pm Dog obedience class - Thursday Morning from 9.30am – Mother and Toddlers Group - Thursday Afternoon from 2pm Ladies bingo.

Thursday Evening from 6pm Kickboxing Sunday Evening from 7pm - Yoga class Hall hire rates: Hall with use of kitchen £12 per hour, Kitchen only £5 per hour

GLOBE G A R A G E

Let us get you beach perfect....

NEW treatment from

INSTITUT

●

PA R I S

The accessible Maintenance Facial ● ● ●

●

DECREASES BLEMISHES INCREASES SKIN RADIANCE 30 MINUTES of GUILT FREE PAMPERING is now as easy and quick as a manicure Sophisticated skin care which is convenient, accessible & affordable.

works in 2 ways.

Firstly the skin is deeply cleansed to eliminate toxins.

Your skin will be cleansed, toned along with the application of specialised gel. Heated electrodes are then used to eliminate excess sebum and toxins leaving the pores deeply cleansed.

Secondly a specialised serum is applied to perform a relaxing facial massage to soothe and regulate the skin to drain and improve circulation leaving your skin hydrated and luminous.

LaunchEvent

Tuesday 14th May 2013 11am - 6pm Exclusive Offers & Discounts Available 1 DAY ONLY! Secure your appointment NOW for this event See Staff For More Information

FREE Raffle & Refreshments will be available FREE skin care consultations

TONE & GLOW TREATMENT PLAN Ideal before summer holidays x1 Elemis Body Sculpting & Colon Therapy x1 Elemis Exotic Full Body Lime & Ginger Salt Glow £99 x1 Arasys Inch Loss Session

● ●

●

EXCLUSIVE! PROM & LADIES DAY OFFERS ●

St Tropez Spray Tan ● Shellac Nails ● Cluster of Lashes

£49

COMING SOON... HIGH BROW Eyebrows by design.

A NEW shape, colour & contour brow concept For bookings and enquiries

Telephone: 0191 413 9098 Park View Cottage, Main Street, Crawcrook, NE40 4ND Mon 11-7, Tues 9.30-6, Wed 9.30-6.30, Thurs 9-8, Fri 9-6.30, Sat 9-4

www.bodybeautifulclinic.co.uk

Crawcrook

Money, money, money...

Each day, we are surrounded by the news that the cost of living is on the increase and that seldom brings a smile. Whether we see it on television, read it in the newspaper or receive a letter through the letterbox, there is seemingly no escape from the financial climate of today. We can be easily fooled into thinking that money makes the world go round.

Way back in the 70’s, Swedish pop group Abba took to the airwaves with their chart topping hit “Money, money, money.” Singing about the woes of long days, bills to pay and an empty pocket, it is as prevalent now as it was back then. Yet, I can’t help but wonder if there is more to life than a healthy bank account. Can we live and dream beyond our financial state?

It’s fair to say that most of us have considered, at one point or another, what we would do should we have a little money to play with.

If were a part of the rich man’s world, we know beyond all doubt that our lives would change. But what about the things that money cannot buy?

Living in the Tyne Valley, I have the wonderful privilege of being able to gaze out of my window and feast upon the beauty of the Northumberland countryside. Each morning brings a new dawn which in turn, awakens a multitude of flora across the rolling hills. As the day ticks along, no two minutes are ever the same. The most beautiful part of the day however, is the evening sunset. With a whole host of colours bursting across the horizon, moving from red to pink and into a warm orange glow, the perfect backdrop is provided for the Sun to elegantly slip away into someone else’s morning.

It’s absolutely priceless. With such a richly beautiful countryside, no person on Earth could ever make a purchase as wonderful or as splendid as what the Tyne Valley has to offer. There is so much to take in, experience, explore and enjoy right on our doorstep.

As the season changes and we move further into spring time, let us take the opportunity to live more freely. We may not have

experienced the fullness of spring yet, but we know it is coming. The flowers are beginning to bloom, the trees are preparing to blossom and the birds are singing their song.

We don’t need a single penny to enjoy this, never mind the wealth of a rich man!

Lisa Jacobs

tony moralee building services CRAWCROOK

Why do working parents love their children coming to St Agnes Day Nursery?

Peace of mind! It’s a term time nursery, with a great holiday club for 3 to 11 year olds - open 49 weeks a year!

What times and how much?

Holiday Club from 8.30am to 3.30pm (only£14) or from 8.30am to 6pm (only £18 including tea) Will my children like your staff?

Staff are very friendly, highly trained AND high ‘staff to child’ ratios are maintained.

How do I book my place?

22

Extensions Complete renovations New builds Plastering Roofing Double glazing Conservatories Patios Driveways

Just contact Debbie Davies, Nursery Manager, St Agnes Day Nursery, School House, Rosedale Road, Crawcrook, Ryton.

Established 1988

Telephone: 0191 413 4822

Call Tony: 0191 413 1070 Mobile: 07951482582

FREE ESTIMA TES

I Slimming World Jo i

na

war m

a nd f

r i e ndl y

. .I ’m the mum I always wanted to be! Jackie x

group near you today...

WEDNESDAY Crawcrook

£5 half price SAVE

Emmaville Hall, Main Street

5pm and 7pm

membership until 18th May 2013

(bus stop outside, Main St. & Kestral CI.)

PLUS ! your

Contact Amanda: 07894 284 343

ULTIMATE

amanda.j.greener@hotmail.com

SLIMMING GUIDE

It’s never been so easy!

0844 897 8000

www.slimmingworld.com

SW on

CUMMINS CHIROPODY & PODIATRY Tel: 0191 413 6611

www.cumminspodiatrist.co.uk

Welcome to the Cummins Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic where we believe healthy feet are essential to your wellbeing.

From our Clinic in Crawcrook we provide professional foot care for patients of all ages, across the Tyne Valley and the wider North East Region. We have other clinics at The Spire Hospital in Washington and in Durham. Appointments are also available in the early mornings and evenings to suit your busy schedule.

Our Chiropody and Podiatry team are all Health Professional Council Registered Practitioners and have nearly 50 years of clinical experience between them. We are proud to say that many of our patients have been under our care since we first opened in 1989.

If you have any problems with your feet, please give us a call and arrange an appointment, we are here to help.

Tel: 0191 4136611

Treatments available include: ●

Chiropody

We offer a wide range of treatments including: nail care, verruca removal and the management of corns and calluses ●

Home Visiting Service

Because we understand the difficulties our older and infirm patients experience, we offer home visits to ensure their feet stay comfortable ●

Nail Surgery Ingrown toenails create a great deal of pain and discomfort, but they are easily treated with simple procedures

●

Biomechanical Assessment

Body movement assessments enable us to study how your body is affecting the comfort of your feet, legs and knees. We provide treatment to resolve these issues ●

Sports Injuries

Our team has a great deal of experience in the successful treatment of a wide variety of sporting injuries, such as: Plantar Fasciitis, Metatarsalgia, Achillies Tendonitis, Shin Splints and Anterior Knee pain ●

Custom-made Insoles

Designed to accommodate each foot to ensure optimum comfort and support for individual conditions. We DO NOT prescribe “off the self” insoles.

Michael Cummins BSc, DPodM, MChs; Dawn Butcher BSc (Hons), MChS Cummins Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic. 1b, Jubilee Terrace, Crawcrook, NE40 4HL. www.cumminspodiatrist.co.uk email: info@cumminspodiatrist.co.uk Clinics also at: The Spire Hospital, Washington and Pity Me Durham

Crawcrook Reserve your dream home in the Tyne Valley With the countryside and city both on your doorstep, it’s easy to see why house buyers are snapping up properties at Keepmoat’s new developments in Crawcrook.

The picturesque former mining village lies just nine miles from Newcastle City Centre, while the beautiful countryside and coast of Northumberland is also within easy reach.

Work has commenced on Keepmoat’s second new development in the village, St. Agnes, which is on the site of the recently demolished St. Agnes School.

The development will consist of 20 two and three bedroom homes with five different house types to choose from. Prices range from £87,996* for a two bedroom Finchley apartment to £131,196* for a larger three bedroom home.

The Finchley apartment is an ideal starter home for first time buyers or couples. It includes an open plan kitchen/diner, lounge, two bedrooms, bathroom and two car parking spaces.

For families looking for more space, the three bedroom Ashby, Ambrose, Canterbury and Oakhurst house types are also available. Prices range from £107,196* for an Ashby to £131,196* for an Oakhurst.

All new homes are available to buy off plan and financial assistance is available through the Government’s Help to Buy scheme. Help to Buy

offers buyers who have saved a 5% deposit the chance to take advantage of a five-year interest free loan covering 20% of the value of the property. The remaining 75% of the property’s value will be funded through a mortgage, which Keepmoat can help buyers to arrange.

Christine Harrison, Sales Director for Keepmoat North East, said: “Our first new development at Regency Square in Crawcrook was extremely popular and sold out really quickly and we are expecting our St. Agnes development to be equally as popular.

“Crawcrook is in a great location with a semi-rural feel to it, while at the same time the attractions of Newcastle and the MetroCentre are also within easy reach by car or public transport. We are already taking reservations and with the financial assistance available on all new homes, now is a great time to buy.”

For more information on St. Agnes, please visit Crawcrook, NE40 4US between 10.00am and 5.00pm Thursday to Monday. Alternatively, please call Keepmoat 0191 543 6458 or visit www.keepmoat.com. * Help to Buy prices quoted represent 80% of the full purchase price. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. The equity loan is held as a second charge on the property. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject to status and available on selected properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Details and prices correct at time of going to press.

St Agnes Ellen Crescent, Crawcrook NE40 4NE

First move, next move,

Help to Buy is here for ALL The government Help to Buy* scheme makes buying your first, or next, home as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. You need a deposit of 5% 2. You can qualify for a 20% interest-free government loan 3. You only need a 75% mortgage

EPMOAT THAT’S THE KE

PROMISE 2 & 3 bedroom homes from £109,995 That’s just £87,996 with Help to Buy*

0191 543 6458 keepmoat.com Now released for sale at Regency Square Pattinson Drive, Crawcrook NE40 4US For all the latest on moving, follow @keepmoat on twitter or become a fan on facebook *Help to Buy price of £87,996 represents 80% of the full purchase price of £109,995. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value).

Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. The equity loan is held as a second charge on the property. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject to status and available on selected properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Details and prices correct at time of going to press. Images representative only.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

25

? n o s ’ t wha Wylam Institute Victorian building with two large halls and other smaller rooms for hire - ideal for wedding receptions and private parties (up to 200 people). We also have many classes each week, from children’s dance to adult Zumba, Art, Pilates, Yoga, Badminton, drama (senior and junior) carpet bowls, exercise for over 50s and monthly clubs like gardeners and bridge.

Ring Fiona on 01661 852498 for further details. The Institute office is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 9.30am and 12noon.

Wylam Methodist Church Centre Exercise Classes Beginners core conditioning: Thursdays 7.30 – 8.30pm Intermediate core conditioning and circuit training: Thursdays 8.30 – 9.30pm.

Men’s core conditioning and circuit training: Fridays 7.30 – 8.30pm All classes held in Wylam Methodist Church Centre during term time.

For more information or to book onto a course please contact - Anna Little Exercise Specialist Reps Advanced Level 3 Instructor 07747 624 541 Anna@Excitesports.co.uk St Oswin’s Church of England Church Road, Wylam NE41 8AT Rev. Canon Robert McLean Tel: 01661 853254 Weekly Services: Sunday 8am and 9.45am (including Sunday School every 2nd Sun) Thursdays 9.30am.

For Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals please ring 01661 853254 St Oswin’s Church Hall With its own sheltered private garden, the hall is ideal for children’s parties, receptions, fundraising events, meetings and classes.

The Hall is also used by the Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows.

Further information and bookings from Rebecca and Howard Fenwick on 01661 852 733 Wylam Methodist Church Centre Chapel Lane. Wylam NE41 8DF Bookings Secretary Brian Fulthorpe 9 Dene Road Wylam NE41 8EY Tel. 01661853818 e:mail Fulthorpe4@BTInternet.com Methodist Women in Britain Every other Tuesday at 2.30pm in the foyer.

Guest speakers and fellowship for ladies of all ages.

Men at Home Second Wednesday of each month in the foyer at 10.30 am (coffee at 10.15am) Guest speakers and fellowship for men of all ages.

Children’s Soft Play Sessions (During school term times) in the hall. For children up to 4yrs. Monday morning 09.00 am to 11.00am Thurs afternoon 1pm to 3pm Wylam Pre-school Playgroup Falcon Centre, Wylam. OFSTED registered playgroup for 2 to 4 year olds. Monday to Friday 9.10am to 12.10pm. For more information contact Anna 07905059935.

Wylam YOGA - Yoga for all at Wylam Institute Yoga courses each 1/2 term HATHA YOGA on Thursday evening 7-8.30pm and Friday morning 9.45 - 11am Contact Maria Knight for booking form 01661 854636 Wylam tennis club: Club sessions: Tues 10-12am, Tues 7-9pm, Sun 2-5pm For further information please contact Anne Francis or Roy Kroese on 01661 853607.

26

Wylam Methodist Church Chapel lane, Wylam, NE41 8DZ Tel: 01661 853 075 “A welcome awaits you” Minister: Rev Jane Cook Tel: 01661 852 143 Sunday Worship 10.45am Children’s Church and Creche (5 age groups) All Age Service 3rd Sunday Sundae Special for younger children and their families 1st Sunday of each month, 4.30pm (except May) Regular housegroups: Sunday evenings and Tuesdays Lunchtime midweek group Soft Play for babies and toddlers Mon Mornings and Thurs afternoons Joint Youth Activities Rock Solid (for Middle School Children) 4.15 pm Wednesdays BLT at Wylam First School 12.30pm Thursdays Details Richard Shrimpton 01661852689 Women’s meetings Tuesday afternoon Soup and Pud lunch for over 70’s (1st Wednesday: contact June Pattinson 852165) Coffee/Tea served Saturday mornings. Rooms available for hire for meetings/parties etc Contact Brian Fulthorpe 853818 Wylam Amateur Dramatic Society Meets every Monday at the Wylam Institute 7.30pm. For more details of the Society, please contact Angus Palmer 01661 853786 Wylam Railway Museum - Wylam Railway Museum is located in the Falcon Centre, Falcon Terrace, Wylam.

The Museum is open to the public during Library hours at the following times: Tues and Thurs: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.; 5.30 p.m.

7.30 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m. - 12 noon.

Wylam W.I. - Meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month in Wylam Institute at 7.30pm. All VISITORS VERY WELCOME. For further details, please contact Mrs Robin Piette 01661 853727 Wylam Duplicate Bridge Group Meets every 3rd Monday of the month at 7.00pm in the Wylam Institute.

New Members Welcome Contact Roger Turner 01661 852582 Wylam St Oswin’s Church of England Church Road Wylam NE41 8AT Weekly services- Sunday 8 am & 9.45 am.

Thursday 9.30 am. During the vacancy following the retirement of Rev David Cant, baptisms, weddings, funerals and services are as usual. Contact the church wardens. Tel : 01661 853254.

Weekly services - Sunday 8.00am & 9.45am including Sunday school every second Sunday For further details tel: 01661 853254.

Wylam Camera Club @ The Wylam Institute Every other Wednesday 730pm Contact Jack Telford 01914133489 What’s On in Ovingham Reading Room To book Ovingham Reading Room or have a look around please ring 0751 885 8275 or e-mail bookreadingroom@googlemail.com Prices range from £12.50 to £25 party, or half day £50 full day.

Regular events in the Reading Room Mon. WI 7.30 pm 2nd Mon of month Tues. Toddlers play group 9.30am11.30am term time. Yoga 2.00pm-3.00pm term time. Choir 7.30pm finishes end June until Sept.

Wed. Dance class sessions for dif. Ages 3.00pm – 7.30pm

Craft Group 7.30 finishes May until Sept.

Thurs. Drama 7.30pm finishes end of June until September, Friday. Butterflies Relaxation & Meditation every 2nd Thurs 6.30- 7.15pm Friday. Dance Class 4.00pm-5pm Sun. 7.30-8.30 Dance class Film nights in the Reading Room usually last Friday in Month See notice outside Reading Room Jumble Sale Sat. 25th May doors open 10.00am until 1.00pm. Refreshments served including our ever popular “Bacon Butties” The Badger Club - an out of school club. We operate from The Old School in Ovingham, Monday to Friday. Breakfast Club is from 7.30am until 9.00am and then After School Club from 3.00pm until 6.00pm. We take children from 4-14 years of age. We also operate a Holiday Club during the school holidays, from 8.00am until 6.00pm. For further

information call 01661 833327 or e mail thebadgerclub@btconnect.com.

Archery Club - The next Beginners Course starts on Sunday 12 May. It is open to anyone interested aged 14 or over and participants will be given access to all equipment and will be given expert tuition from experienced archers.

Anyone interested in a shorter ‘Have-AGo’ session can catch up with the club at the Ovingham Goose Fair on 15 June shooting indoors in The Old School. For £1 anyone aged 5 upwards can ‘buy’ 3 arrows and get tuition to shoot them at the target/balloons. For more information or to book your place on the Beginners’ course please contact Jane Phipps on 01434 681002 or via email on borderreiverarchers@yahoo.com Ovingham Websites of Interest. www.ovinghamreadingroom.org.uk www.ovinghamgoosefair.org.uk www.bridgeendcc.org

WYLAM KARATE CLUB

Fitness - Self Defence - Confidence - Fun EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT at Wylam Institute, Wylam 6:30pm - 8:30pm £5 BEGINNERS FIRST LESSON FREE or just come along and see the class in action.

We are a friendly bunch and don’t worry we were all beginners once so you will be well looked after, why not join us, get fit, have fun, learn a new skill, in a few years time you could be a BLACK BELT !

Instructor: Jamie Clelland, 3rd Dan BLACK BELT Fully Insured, CRB Certified For more information contact:

Jamie 01661836485 or 07581336025

?

Heddon & Horsley The Hearth Art Centre and Cafe, Main Road, Horsley, NE15 0NT The Hearth is home to eleven professional artists whose studios are open to the public. Call in to visit textile artists, painters, jewellery makers, a ceramic studio and Horsley Printmakers. There are regular classes, courses and art workshops. Evening activities include live music and talks.

Café open Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm. For information on forthcoming activities at The Hearth or to contact our artists, please visit our website www.thehearth.co.uk Live Music Friday 24th May at 7.30pm Folkworks Hexham Gathering Headlining Blair Dunlop, Plus other young musicians from the region and beyond Blair Dunlop, awarded the Horizon Award in the 2013 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards is a captivating vocalist, is rapidly emerging as a fine singer-songwriter, and featured recently in Acoustic magazine as an up-and-coming guitarist. He is headlining an evening of folk featuring other young musicians from the North East. Tickets £7/£5 (under 18s, students) from the Hearth Café 01661 853 563 and Queens Hall Box Office, Hexham, 01434 652 477. Doors open at 7pm for food and licenced bar Friday 21st June at 7.30pm James Birkett Jazz duo Tickets from the Hearth Café 01661 853 563 Doors open at 7pm for food and licenced bar Heritage And History Thursday 27th June, 7.30pm Ouseburn Trust. The Ouseburn Cradle of the Industrial Revolution on Tyneside. An informative session ranging from the glassworks in the 17th Century to a range of river based mills and engineering works, including Maling Pottery and a vital canal network. Tickets on the door, £5 to include refreshments. To hire the hall for classes or parties please email the administrator at office@thehearth. co.uk. To enquire about catering for events and parties or to book a table for their famous Sunday roast, please call the Café on 01661 853 563 or email Alanna at hearthcafe@ymail.com Horsley Garden Club meets every third Monday each month from March to September 7:30 pm in The Crown and Anchor pub. We enjoy a varied programme of speakers and visits.

New members and visitors always are welcome. Secretary Hazel Holliday 01661853919 Horsley WI meets every first Monday each month 7:30 pm in the WI hall at the west end of the village. We enjoy a wide variety of speakers and a delicious supper! New members and visitors are always welcome. Secretary Elizabeth Bramwell 01661853295 Horsley Book Club meets the first Friday of each month, 4 pm onwards in The Hearth cafe. New members and visitors are always welcome. Please

contact Hazel Holliday 01661853919 for more details.

Heddon on the Wall Ballroom Dancing Classes ]We welcome beginners and those with some experience. The classes take place every Tuesday during term time in the Knott Memorial Hall from 8 – 10pm. The teachers have endless patience and everyone has great fun.

Find a partner and give it a try.

Contacts: 0191 2365878 ( Jenian School of Dancing) or 01661 853798 (local contact) Heddon WI, held on the first Monday of the month at 7pm with contact President 01661 854849 or Secretary 01661 853365.

Heddon Methodist Church The Sunday morning service is 10.30am. Toddler Group which meets Wednesdays at 2 - 3 pm. Elizabeth Cushion (minister) 01661 852 309.

The Heddon Patchers A quilting and patchwork group who meet every other Wednesday in the Women’s Institute at Heddon on the Wall. We have a tutor and can be contacted through Ann Allsopp on 01661853695. or on line at allsopprayann@btopenworld.com Heddon StitchersAnyone who enjoys needle or craft work of any variety is welcome and their expertise would be of interest to the group. Stitchers is a friendly self-help group and offer help (if required) to anyone who has not picked up a needle for years. Optional workshops are held on a regular basis. Occasionally a guest speaker will give a talk and/or demonstration on a particular technique. Trips are organised to local craft shops and exhibitions. Heddon Stitchers meet in the Knott Memorial Hall every Monday from 1pm - 3p. Contact: Ann Lockey 01661 852832 or Alison Laker 01661 853798 Heddon Local History Group Come along – you may learn something about the area you live in or what your street was like before houses were built on the land. All meetings, unless otherwise stated, are held in the Methodist Chapel Hall on Monday evenings at 7.30 p.m. A nominal fee on the night covers the cost of the hall. All welcome. Contact: Brian Charlton Heddon Art Group We are a friendly enthusiastic Art group in Heddon on the Wall. We meet fortnightly in the W.I. Hall from 7 to 9pm. At present we are up to capacity but if you are interested please get in touch and we will be happy to tell you more about what we do. Contact: Win Warcup -01661 853346 or email: win.heddon@ hotmail.co.uk Ad Murum Singers A broad based mixed voice choir originally formed for special presentations in St. Andrew’s Church, but over the years widening its scope with a view to presenting concerts in other churches and venues to assist

n o s ’ t a wh in fund raising. The choir aim to give three or four performances during the year. Rehearsals are held in Heddon Methodist Church Hall (during term time) on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 - 9.00 p.m. New members are always welcome. Contact: Margaret Bone 01661 852656 Heddon Scrabble Group Come along and have fun with words.

All are welcome, especially new starters – help will be given. The group meets in the Knott Memorial Hall. Every Monday, at 10.00 a.m. – 12 noon.

Contact: Kaye Poole: 01661 852701 Keep Fit & Flexible 1 hour to spare on Wednesday mornings? Join us for gentle exercise to music. Improve your balance, flexibility, co-ordination and have fun at the same time. The class is aimed at the over 50s but younger people are most welcome.

(KFA Registered teacher and Member of Exercise Professionals.) 10 - 11 a.m.

in the Knott Memorial Hall. Contact: Pauline Wright 01661 853365 Toddlers Group If you are caring for a toddler or baby, why not come along to Heddon Methodist Church on Wednesdays (during term time) from 1.30 – 3.00 p.m. It is an opportunity for the children to play and mix with others and for you to have a relaxing cup of tea. Everyone is very welcome.

Contact: 01661 853403; 01661 853403; 852186 or 852659 Throckley Drama Group The group has now been going since 1951 and over the years has performed dozens of one & three act plays. There are now new enthusiastic members of the group, who want to continue bringing entertainment to Heddon and neighbouring villages. New members are always welcome. Contact: Olive White - 0191 2674827

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

Broken or Damaged Windows?

Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks?

Want the latest energy saving glass?

5 year guarantee on new double glazing.

...we make saving money perfectly clear...

Call Freephone

0800 61 21118

www.cloudy2clear.com

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

27

Derwent Express Packaging We’ll send you packing

YOUR ONE STOP PACK & POST SHOP!

Full range of packaging materials & supplies for both trade & public.

Pack onsite at our trade counter. From only 99p per item.

Grey Mailers from

5p each

Jiffy Padded Bags from

7p each

Bubble Wrap 100 metre rolls from

£9.99

We also have packing tapes, document wallets, cello bags. labels, everything you need to pack your items.

Cost Effective UK Parcel Distribution

Do you send Large Letters, Packets or Parcels?

Low cost Parcels are working in partnership with Derwent Packaging Express to offer a unique cost saving service in the North East. Saving our customers £’s on every shipment.

We offer our clients substantial discounts by using our parcel service. All you need to do is drop the parcels off at our customer service counter and we handle the rest-ensuring safe delivery of your goods.

5 Simple Steps to Start Saving Money Package your item

Simply write on your Drop off at our recipients address Customer Services

We label it and ship it

Typical Rates:

Your shipment arrives at your chosen address

=>5kg Parcels £5.85 (Royal Mail £12.60 - SAVE 54%) 5-10kg Parcels £6.72 (Royal Mail £15.30 - SAVE 56%) 10-20kg Parcels £7.67 (Royal Mail £27.30 - SAVE 72%) 21kg+ Parcels £7.67 (Royal Mail £12.60 - SAVE 54%) Units 2 & 3, Blaydon Business Centre, Cowen Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear, NE21 5TW

Tel: 0191 414 3007

Email: info@derwentexpresspackaging.co.uk

Upgrade to NEXT DAY for an extra £1.00 per shipment

RECYCLING CENTRE

Prudhoe Ready Steady Knit Knitting Groups, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 1.30pm to 4.00pm in the shop at Ready Steady Knit , 17b Front Street, Prudhoe NE42 5HN. Tel: 01661 830671 Ryton And Prudhoe Brass Band Can You Play A Brass Instrument?

The Ryton and Prudhoe brass band are looking for new brass players. We rehearse on a Thursday evenings at Prudhoe Methodist and take part in concerts throughout the Tyne Valley.

There is no restriction on age or ability, as we just play to enjoy ourselves.

Interested? Contact Ray Hutchinson 0191 4144883 or Neville Fairbairn 01661 832162 Prudhoe Methodist Church (West Road). Luncheon Club meets in on the First Floor at 12 noon on every second Friday of the month when we serve Soup and a Sweet, followed by tea/ coffee and biscuits. Price £3.

Parent and Toddler Group 9.30-11 amTuesdays and Thursdays (term-time) Margaret Glendinning 01661 832066 Sunday services: 10 am 6pm second Sunday in month. Messy Church 6pm first Friday in month. (all families welcome). Youth Club :Fridays 6.307.30pm (yr 5 and above). Fridays 7-8.30pm (yr 7 and above) term-time Ebenezer Methodist Church Toddler Group. Parent and Toddler group meets at Ebenezer Methodist Church, Scales Crescent, West Wylam.

Wednesdays 9.30am – 11am (term time). Tel: Anne Chapman, 01661 833465. Everyone welcome.

Sunday evening worship 6pm Prudhoe Town Council Our Monthly Ordinary Meeting is held on the last Wednesday of each month beginning at 7:00pm (some months may vary) and our Planning, Contract and Works Meeting is held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month beginning at 7:00pm (some months may vary).

Both meetings are held in Room 1 of the Spetchells Centre, Front Street, Prudhoe and are open to the public.

Agendas for both meetings are posted on the website and Town Council notice boards on the Friday before. Minutes of these meetings are also available on the Town Council website and on request.

Prudhoe in Bloom meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (excluding December and January), from 5:30pm in Room 1 of the Spetchells Centre and members discuss all things horticultural in the Town. The meetings are open to anyone and the group is actively seeking new members. If you are interested in the appearance of the Town and would like to contribute, please get in touch with Prudhoe Town Council using the contact details provided. For more details contact 01661 835487 or e-mail prudhoetc@hotmail.com www.parish-council.com/prudhoe

? n o s ’ t wha Prudhoe Health Walks Meet every Thursday at Tyne Riverside Country Park Visitor Centre at 10:30am for a short walk with longer extension on second Thursday of month.

Tel: 01434 613227 Prudhoe Gleemen Male Voice Choir - New members welcome. www. prudhoegleemen.org.uk. We meet 7.15pm every Monday night at Prudhoe Methodist Chapel for our practices.

Everyone who would like to join in can just come along You do not need to read music. Tel no, 01661 832162.

110th Anniversary Concert Saturday 8th June 7.00pm in the Performing Arts Centre, Newcastle Royal Grammar SchoolSoloists: Hrafnhildur Bjornsdottir (Soprano), Martyn Parkes (Piano)Tickets £7 from Mr J Dobson 01661 833895 Concert at Crawcrook Centenary Methodist Church, Saturday 15 June 7pm. Tickets £4.00 or children free available on the door.

Prudhoe Women’s Institute We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at St Mary Magdalene Parish Hall. Please contact Anne Tullock 01661 832982 or Barbara Robinson 01661 834840. All new members and visitors welcome.

West Wylam Residents Association Meet on the last Monday of every other month, We meet in The Manors, Adderlane Road, Prudhoe at 6.30 p.m.

For further information please contact Caroline on 01661 831380 Prudhoe Over 50’S Forum meets on the 3rd Monday of every month in St. Mary Magdelene’s Church Hall ( at the traffic lights in Prudhoe ) Meetings begin with coffee and biscuits at 9:45am. Speaker at 10am.

Don’t sit at home alone this year. Come and join us. Anyone over 50 living in and around Prudhoe is very welcome at our friendly and informative meetings.

Meets on the 3rd Monday of the month in St Mary Magdalene Church Hall, Front Street, Prudhoe at 9.45 for coffee and speaker at 10am Friends Of Prudhoe Woods Meets in the Bowling Pavilion at Waterworld on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7.30pm Prudhoe Community Band Meets on Saturday mornings during term time at Prudhoe High School from 9.45 - 11.45am. All ages, abilities and instruments welcome. Check out the website at www.prudhocommunityband. co.uk or contact Jill Walker (Secretary) on 07790 385888.

Prudhoe Gardeners’association This is the organisation which manages over 100 allotments for Prudhoe Town Council. Anyone in the town and the surrounding area can become a member of the Association and access the HUT which is open every Saturday morning 10am - 12noon for the sale of seeds, garden fertilisers, compost, etc for use on the garden as well as allotment.

Anyone wanting an allotment can put their name on the waiting list at the HUT. The HUT is situated behind the West Wylam Inn. For more information please ring Joan Russell 833101 or email: joanrussell@talktalk.net Prudhoe Community Allotment Hanging Basket Day 1 - at the Riverside Centre Low Prudhoe Saturday 18Th May 11am - 3pm Hanging Basket Day 2b - At The Community Allotment Redwell Court Prudhoe Tuesday 21st May 10am 2pm. Plant Sale at The Community Allotment Redwell Court Prudhoe Wednesday 8Th Jun E 10Am - 1Pm Open DayWednesday 7Th August 10am -3pm Prudhoe Ground Force Meet Every Monday Morning 9 – 10Am At Various Locations In Prudhoe To Litter Pick. Anyone Wishing To Join This Group should contact James Dobson 01661 833895 for details of the day or email: j.dobson@ic24.net

Prudhoe Community Choir Welcomes new members. The choir meets on Wednesday evenings between 7.45pm and 9.45pm at Stocksfield Baptist Church. Contact Amy Furniss (Chairperson) Tel: 0191 413 5090 or Catherine Edge (Secretary) Tel: 01661 835738.

Prudhoe Women’s Institute We meet 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7pm at St Mary Magdalane Parish Hall. Please contact Anne Tullock 01661 832982 or Caroline Stow 01661 831380. All new members welcome!

Prudhoe Mothers’ Union Meets the first Tuesday of every month in St Mary Magdalene church hall at 1:30pm and have a variety of speakers throughout the year. The organisation is open to all church goers. All welcome.

Tyne Valley Canoe Club We meet every Friday throughout the year in either Tyne Riverside Country Park (April-September) @ 6.30 pm or Waterworld (October-March) @ 8.30 pm. All ages welcome. For more details contact John Dean Tel. 01661 832575

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

29

Prudhoe Sixty years is certainly something to celebrate and this year Elizabeth Evans Opticians is doing just that!

Having started life in the front room of a house in Prudhoe under Dickinson and then Fairbairn…the practice has continued to grow and flourish. There have been many changes over the years: frame styles have developed dramatically from horn-rimmed frames to the large plastic 1980s frames of Deidre Barlow from Coronation Street. Now we have an endless choice for both adults and children. This has made a wonderful improvement as children now want to wear spectacles. Image conscious teenagers are also proving that fashion does indeed go full circle with the 1950s “geeky” spectacles now the height of fashion with the young.

Town centres have changed beyond recognition. Convenience has been the drive for out-of-town shopping like the Metro Centre, and for internet shopping. With High Street businesses closing daily, it is an achievement indeed for a small independent practice to still be in business today.

To what do we owe our continuing success… Personal and Professional Service! I really do believe that in the age of faceless internet shopping, it’s excellent personal service that customers want, and this is what we are continually striving to achieve and deliver.

It has been my pleasure to work in Prudhoe for the past ten years, helping our customers with their visual problems and I would like to thank all of you for that absolute privilege.

✃

FREE

EYE Examination

on the 1st and 2nd JUNE

Complete this voucher and bring it along to elizabethevans for your chance to win a

Traditional Afternoon Tea for 4 at...

Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: _________________________________ Mobile: _________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________ DOB: ___________________________________________ Do you wear contact lenses? Yes £ No £

30

Do you wear spectacles? Yes £ No £

*

*free single vision standard lenses on purchase of complete spectacles

YEARS 60

elizabethevans 19

53 - 2013

Call us now on 01661 832564

elizabethevans opticians 23 Front Street, Prudhoe, Northumberland NE42 5HN info@evansopticians.co.uk t: 01661 832 564

personal & professional eyecare

Prudhoe The Car & Van Centre is a family run, well established and respected MOT, car & van service/ repair workshop in Prudhoe. We offer services such as tyre fitting, diagnostics, servicing, repairs, key coding and much more.

At the Car & Van Centre we focus on providing an exceptional garage service with competitive pricing. The centre was opened in November 2010 at Barmoor, Ryton by Ben Johnson, a well experienced mechanic who has worked in the industry for over 15 years. We have recently moved to Prudhoe.

The centre operates with a small team of dedicated mechanics and has all the facilities to service and repair your vehicles.

Our Success

We have built a solid reputation in the area for delivering a high quality garage service, tailor made to meet the needs of our clients. Much of our business comes from word of mouth and satisfied repeat customers.

We offer a local pick up and drop off service for the convenience of our clients.

Servicing

Regular car servicing can extend the life of a vehicle considerably and save money.

It is often a misconception that cars must be serviced by a main dealer, in order to preserve the warranty. It is not necessary to have it serviced from a main dealer. The monopoly that car dealers had on car servicing is no longer applicable. The car can be serviced by an independent garage as long as they use the correct OE spec parts. They must also be VAT registered.

MOT’s

You can renew your MOT up to 28 days before it is due without losing any days meaning if it was brought in 3 weeks early your new certificate would be valid for 1 year and 3 weeks. Everyone who uses a vehicle on the road must keep it in a roadworthy condition. The MOT test checks that vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. The first MOT test for a vehicle is required when it’s three years old.

We are currently undergoing a refit for a brand new, state of the art MOT testing lane. Customers will be invited to sit in our waiting room if they would like to wait for the test to be carried out.

The Good Garage Scheme

We are members of the Good Garage Scheme, which is run by Forté and is dedicated to driving up standards in the car servicing and car repair industry, ensuring consumers get a fair deal. Every garage listed performs services to a strict Code of Conduct and will always have your best interests at heart.

We recently won an award for Top 5 (out of the UK) for feedback of the week from our happy customers feedback. You can check out our feedback on the Good Garage Scheme website.

Some of our feedback

Ben, Scott and Graham are brilliant. Really do a great job on my car every time.

Fast and friendly service. I have been going since Ben started his own business up and it is the best garage I have ever used. I recommend this garage anytime. 10/04/13.

Ben is very polite, informative and professional. Very happy with work done and also saved me a small fortune compared to a dealer’s quote. Highly recommend and will be using from now on. 21/02/13 Excellent service as usual. Very friendly and helpful. Have used for years as well as my friends and we won’t consider anywhere else. 21/11/12 I find it very rare to be so satisfied with a business these days but The Car and Van Centre was a complete package. Thank you. 24/05/12

Orchard House Princess Way Prudhoe Northumberland NE42 6HB Web site: www.thecarvancentre.weebly.com Email: the.car.van.centre@unicomemail.co.uk Tel: 01661 832184 - Tel: 0782 6523777

32

THE

C

E R T EN

Orchard House, Princess Way, Low Prudhoe.

M.O.T.’s CLASS 4 & 7 ● SERVICING ● BRAKES ● CLUTCHES ● ELECTRICAL WORK ● DIAGNOSTICS ● BATTERY’S ● TYRES ●

NEW PREMISES

Pick Up & Drop Off Available Recovery Service

GIVE US A CALL FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION

Tel: 01661 832 184 or 0782 652 3777

WHAT’S ON! AT PRUDHOE WATERWORLD Leisure pool with waves, slide & beach area, fitness gym, fitness classes, cafe, adventure soft play, creche, bouldering wall & outdoor play area!

NEW DAY PASS now available choose two activities plus a meal deal!

Juniors: swimming, bouldering wall or soft play.

Adults: swimming, bouldering wall or gym (fast track induction included).

Family passes also available!

Call Waterworld 01661 833144 for more details.

AT PRUDHOE RIVERSIDE

Holiday activities: orienteering, canoeing, arts and crafts.

Cafe open every day 10am to 4.30pm during school holidays Call Waterworld 01661 833144 for more details.

www.activenorthumberland.org.uk Active Northumberland

@ActiveNland

Managed by Active Northumberland (a leisure partnership between two registered charities A BVAL and North Country Leisure) on behalf of Northumberland County Council

Prudhoe

Prudhoe Community Church

Zumba classes

Sat 10-11am or Mon 6-7pm Turn up on the day, or ring in advance for more information 01661 830167 or 07576 969 193 Family Service Every Sunday 10.30am Luncheon Club Every Wednesday 12.30 Great Food, Great Company!

10 -14’s Club Every other Wednesday 6.30pm to 8.30pm Computer Games, Films, Group Activities, Free Food and Much Much More! Great activities in a safe environment.

Mark 1:1 Church@West Wylam Cricket Pavillion.

Every Sunday at 5.30pm

‘A church with a Heart for the Community and Worship’

Fun, Friendship, Food & Worship

The Gate Swalwell Close, Prudhoe 01661 830167 & 07576 969 193

Ready Steady ● Wool & Needles ● Haberdashery ● Books & Patterns ● Knitting Groups Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9.30 to 4.30 17b Front Street, Prudhoe, Northumberland, NE42 5HN

Telephone: 01661 830671 www.readysteadyknit.com www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

35

Prudhoe Community Arts Week 25 May - 1 June

Following the enormous success of the Jubilee Celebration in 2012, Prudhoe has decided to do it all again and a bit more!!

Starting with a week of Community Arts, in its widest sense, events will begin with a Teddy Bears’ Picnic on Saturday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm at the Riverside Park.

This is a free event and will include face painting, circus skills, story-telling and a Punch and Judy show.

Ceilidh Evening

Bank holiday Monday, 27 May will see a Ceilidh evening being held at the Tory Club, 7.30pm with tickets costing £5 each.

Hedgehog’s Skins will provide the music and the essential calling! Also appearing is Colin Waters, jazz and soul music.

Craft Workshop - Sing-along-afilm& Fittness

Tuesday 28 May sees three events. A crafts workshop at The East centre 1pm - 4pm, will give some hand-on fun for youngsters in making and painting. The Fuse Media is hosting a Sing-along-a-film - Mamma Mia - come along and join in for a great sing from 2pm- tickets will cost £2 each. In the evening, a Zumba class will run at the Tory Club - more details available nearer the time.

1950s in its Music and Memories

Wednesday 29 May sees the chance to remember the 1950s in its music and memories. The Manors will be hosting an afternoon event, 2pm - 4.30pm with Prudhoe’s own Music Man, John Robson playing the tunes of the times. The Local History Society are providing some items from the 1950s to help bring back those memories. This event is free, but donations will be very welcome! In the evening a Community Music concert by the Community Choir and Community Band is being held at the Methodist Church, starting at 7pm with tickets costing just £2 each. A wonderful opportunity to hear these two established musical groups of Prudhoe.

2nd Craft Workshop & Performing Arts

Thursday 30 May starts with a second craft workshop at The East, 10am - 1pm. The evening sees the first of two events celebrating performing arts in Prudhoe, being held at the Tory Club, 7.30pm - 10.30pm. This wonderful evening of entertainment will be from Prudhoe Gleemen, Dragon Tale Theatre Group, Fools Gold fiddle group and Colin Waters, jazz and soul music. Tickets will be just £2 each. A raffle will be run and the bar will be open.

Coronation Jubilee Fair Sunday 2 June 12noon - 5pm 2013

Story Telling & Dance

Friday 31 May has something for the youngest folk in Prudhoe Story telling at Waterworld - 4.15 - 5.15, held in the crèche. This event is free so come along and hear the stories from Richard Heslop, story-teller. Then we move onto our second evening of entertainment at the Tory Club starting at 7.30pm. Groups will include dancers from the Elaine Pygall school of dancing, two drama groups Jemms and Green Shoe and then the dance group Feet First. Again, a wonderful evening of entertainment.

As with Thursday’s show tickets will be £2 each. A raffle will be run and the bar will be open.

Story Telling - Children’s Arts & Prudhoe’s Got Talent

Saturday 1 June will see some more Story Telling in the Parish Hall during the coffee morning. Again, this is a free event.

Other events planned to run over the whole week include, a Children’s Arts competition hosted by Waterworld, Prudhoe’s Got Talent hosted by The East, Radio Prudhoe hosted by The Fuse ........ and more!!

Coronation Jubilee Fair

Sunday 2 June will see the Coronation Jubilee Fair, 12noon - 5pm with stalls, rides, and entertainment throughout the afternoon. Many of the acts and groups from during the Arts week will also be performing during the fair, some craft stalls will be in the Spetchells Building and others out on the street side. The East Centre will run events and music will fill the skies!!

To keep up-to-date with events log onto the Facebook page for daily information: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Prudhoe-CommunityArts-Festival/48242170182567 Email: prudhoecap@hotmail.co.uk for more information about the Coronation Fair visit their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Prudhoe-CoronationFair/177826832366449?fref=ts TICKET ENQUIRIES - 01661-535710 Ian and Caroline Warburton

www.prudhoearts.co.uk

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

37

0845 154 7953 sales@roamprint.co.uk

.CO.UK

LET US MAKE LIFE EASIER PRINT & DISTRIBUTION

A5, Double Sided Flyers on 130gsm Gloss...

5000£72 10,000£133 Use this voucher code: ROAM 10

at the checkout stage on our print website

10 DAY TURNAROUND

16 years experience in door drop marketing A range of flexible options

Visit our distribution website for more information

www.roamdistribution.co.uk

Follow us for exclusive offers

Twitter

Prudhoe

£100 OFF any Rise Recliner

New Furniture Now Bedroom In! Furniture,

Beds, Mattresses, Tables, Television Cabinets & Chairs.

Stockist of the Iphone Mu Box...

Thursday 9am - 6pm Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 3pm Other appointments available on request

Unbeatable Prices!

Contact Kim on: 0794 6273 354

50 Front Street, Prudhoe, NE42 5DB

Tel: 01661 836566

www.thechairandbedroomcentre.com

The Manors Adderlane Road Prudhoe. NE42 5ET

Kim’s Hair Boutique

St Matthew’s Nursery and Daycare

Highfield Lane, Prudhoe, NE42 6EY We aim to provide high quality Nursery education in a safe, nurturing and exciting environment.

Set within the grounds of St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School with excellent facilities and an extensive outdoor environment.

Ofsted Registered Fully qualified Forest School Leader.

High adult to child ratio To reserve your place or organise a visit contact: Mrs.P.Hatherley 01661 835484 Patricia.Hatherley@northumberland.gov.uk. www.st-matthews.northumberland.sch.uk Morning, afternoon and full day sessions available Fully inclusive, all denominations welcome.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

39

May 2013

Allen Banks & Staward Gorge Bardon Mill Hexham Northumberland NE47 7BU Wednesday 29 May Woodland Bushcraft Experience 10am – 2pm Experience what it is like to survive outdoors with woodland skills such as cooking on a fire, building a shelter, making tools and much more! Tel: 01434 344525. £10 BE Cherryburn Station Bank Mickley Nr Stocksfield NE43 7DD Tel: 01661 843276 Monday 6 May May Day Family Fun 11am – 3pm Join in the fun as we dance around the Maypole and crown our very own May Queen. Enjoy live music, face painting, garden games and much more! * Cragside Rothbury Morpeth Northumberland NE65 7PX Tel: 01669 620333 Wednesday 1 May (every Wednesday through to end of October) Victorian Baking Days 1pm and 4pm Imagine visiting Cragside House to be greeted by the smell of freshly baked cakes as you step through the door. On Wednesdays our volunteer cooks will be in costume recreating authentic Victorian recipes in our magnificent kitchen. Each week there will be a different recipe. Free Monday 26 May – until 2 June Dream Flags 10am – 5pm Take part in the 150th anniversary of Cragside and mark the occasion by making your own dream flag. Prayer flags can be found strung along the mountain ridges of the Himalayas today and are used to bless the countryside. Lord and Lady Armstrong created a Himalayan landscape at Cragside so we want to collect your dreams in a similar way. Grab your DIY pack and create your own flag design. Then head up to the labyrinth to find the tree hut where you can display your dream flag and be part of the Cragside dream. All £4.40 Gibside Nr Rowlands Gill Burnopfield Newcastle upon Tyne NE16 6BG Tel: 01207 541820 Sunday 5 May Dawn Chorus Ramble with a Ranger 6 – 8am. Join an early morning ramble as the sun rises. Listen out for birdsong and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of roe deer.

Monday 6 May May Bank Holiday Family Fun Day 11am – 3pm. A bumper batch of Gibside’s favourite family adventures including den-making, frisbee golf, Gruesome Gibside walks and story-telling. *

40

Sunday 12 May Bees for Beginners Workshop 11am – 3pm Meet our expert bee keeper and discover practical tips for creating a bee-friendly garden or keeping your own bees.

Workshop includes seasonal lunch. Tel: 01207 541820. £20 BE Saturday 25 May until 27 May Family Camping Weekend 10.30am – 4.30pm. Give the kids a taste of the wild in the heart of Gibside. Pitch your tent for three days and two nights of family adventure, games, bushcraft activities, live music and more. Tel: 01207 541820. £60 BE Sunday 26 May Music in the Park Grand Launch 1 – 4pm Perfect picnicking and live music on the Avenue every fortnight all summer. 2013’s programme includes brass, steel, bluegrass and jazz bands. * Hadrian’s Wall & Housesteads Fort Bardon Mill Hexham Northumberland NE47 6NN Tel: 01434 321888 Sunday 19 May Hadrian’s Wall, Crag Lough Outdoor Climbing Adventure 10am – 1pm Try rock climbing at the atmospheric Crag Lough right below Hadrian’s Wall, with an introduction to movement skills, harnesses, belaying and climbing calls.

Adult £20 Child £10 BE Tel: 01434 321888.

Wednesday 29 May Ranger Bushcraft Day 10am – 2pm See what it’s like to be a ranger, learn survival skills such as fire-making and campfire cooking. Bring a parent or guardian along free of charge! Meet at Allen Banks Car Park - a parking charge will apply for all non NT members.

Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and bring something to cook on the fire e.g. sausages or bacon. £10 per child BE Tel: 01434 321888 Lindisfarne Castle Holy Island Berwick upon Tweed Northumberland TD15 2SH Tel: 01289 389244 Tuesday 14 May Photography Trail - Holy Island Join Northumberland photographer Andy Craig for a photography walk with your camera around one of Northumberland’s most iconic locations, home to the Lindisfarne Gospels. Andy will highlight some great photo opportunities, and offer support and tuition to help you get some amazing photographs throughout the course of your walk. This event is suitable for photographers of any level, and is primarily aimed at those using compact or SLR cameras – a great way for visitors to the area to enjoy a walk and capture their visit to Northumberland. Adult - £75.00 Tel: 01665 576012 BE Monday 27 May – Bank Holiday 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾ 11.30am – 1.30pm

Bring the family to join the hunt for crabs, sea urchins, lobster and maybe even a small fish or two! Join one of our coastal rangers as we go rock pooling near Lindisfarne Castle on the beautiful Holy Island. Free Monday 27 May – Bank Holiday Lindisfarne Ramble 10am – 1.30pm A walk for all of the family. Starting at Lindisfarne Castle, join Patrick and Louise from Footsteps In Northumberland who will take you on a circular walk incorporating some of the highlights of Holy Island. Adult - £15 Adult - £25 (Based on a couple both attending) Child - £5 Family - £30 Tel: 01289 389244 BE Ormesby Hall Church Lane Ormesby Nr Middlesbrough Redcar & Cleveland TS7 9AS Tel: 01642 324188 Friday 3 May Lunchtime Lecture 12noon – 1pm The Rise & Fall of Rev Moyle, clergyman, book hawker & fraudster Linda Polley, former Senior History Lecturer from Teesside University, delivers the second of our 2013 season of lectures revealing embezzlement and fraud in St. Cuthbert’s parish church at Ormesby. The lecture will be given in the Entrance Hall.

There will be the opportunity for a light lunch in our Tea Room afterwards.

Saturday 4 – Monday 6 May 50 Things to do before you’re 11&3/4 1.30pm – 4pm Parents - are your children always glued to their ‘gizmoes’ or are they adventurous. In either case if you would like them to get out and about this Bank Holiday weekend why not bring them along to Ormesby Hall. On each of the three days there will be an different activity where they can try their hand at dam building, geocaching or even bug hunting. Please check with the property for more details. £ Booking not needed Monday 6 May Bank Holiday Dam Building - “50 things to do for families”.

Have fun with Adam and the Estate Team damming the beck to help keep it fresh and clean. Dress for mess - Please provide clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.

Adult - £2.00 Child - £1.00 BE Tel: 01642 328900 Penshaw Monument Chester Road, Penshaw, Houghton le Spring DH4 7EL Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 May Tours to the Top 10am – 5pm & every weekend until 29 September Climb the secret staircase to the rooftop walkway and spectacular views across Wearside and County Durham. Non members £5. Tel: 01947 885900. BE Tuesday 19 May Food for Free 10am – 1pm Discover a range of edible wild plants on a 2-3 mile walk from the foot of Penshaw Hill.

Meet at main kissing gate, sturdy footwear advised. Tel: 01947 885900. £3 incl. refreshments BE Seaton Delaval Hall The Avenue Seaton Sluice Northumberland NE26 4QR Tel:0191 2379100 Monday 6 May Games Day 11am – 4pm A fun family day out with games in the paddock, a woodland trail and ice cream in the gardens. Bring a picnic or grab something hot from the van. * Monday 27 May Spring Crafts for Kids 11am – 2pm Join our events team and have a go at seasonal craft activities. * Souter Lighthouse Coast Road Whitburn Sunderland Tyne and Wear SR6 7NH Tel: 0191 529 3161 Monday 27 May Souter Seashore Safari 11am – 1pm Search the rockpools along Souter’s rocky shore.

Wednesday 29 May also 30 May Geocache Treasure Hunt 1pm Join us for a high tech treasure hunt around the Whitburn Coastal Park. Tel: 0191 5290909. BE Wallington Cambo Morpeth NE61 4AR Tel: 01670 773600 Sunday 12 May Ask the Gardener 12noon – 4pm Ask our Head Gardener for expert advice in the Conservatory and buy special plants to help us raise money for the National Gardens Scheme. * Sunday 19 May Cars in the Courtyard: Post Vintage and Classic Cars 11am – 4pm Admire a selection of post vintage and classic cars in the beautiful setting of Wallington courtyard. * Sunday 26 May also 27 May The Romans Return 11am – 4pm March back in time to the Imperial Age as Comitatus take over Wallington! Watch Roman soldiers put through their paces and marvel at the cavalry squadron’s power and skill on horseback. * £ Tuesday 28 May until Friday 31 May ‘50 things’ Challenge 11am – 12.30pm & 1.30 – 3pm Enjoy wild play at Wallington and see how many of our 50 things activities you can achieve before you head home. £ * Washington Old Hall The Avenue Washington Village Washington Tyne and Wear NE38 7LE

Stocksfield what’s on?

Stocksfield Community Centre (SiCA) Monday 9.15am – 12.15pm Playgroup *(term time) 6.30pm - 7.45pm Low impact aerobics/ Body toning Tuesday 9.15am - 12.15pm Playgroup *(term time) 9.30am - 11.30am Computer Club 10.00am -2.00pm Social Centre 10.30am -noon Carpet Bowls 6.00pm - 7.00pm Step Class - all levels Wednesday 9.15am – 12.15pm Playgroup *(term time) 9.30am – 11.30am Parent & Toddlers *(term time) 9.30am – 11.30am Digital Photography Club Thursday 9.15am – 12.15pm Playgroup *(term time) 6.45pm – 7.45pm Pilates using Stability Balls 7.00pm- 9.00pm Bridge (1st & 3rd Thursdays) 8.00pm – 10.00pm Badminton Friday

9.30am – 10.30am Low impact aerobics (with crèche) for legs,bums and tums!

Saturday 10.00am – 11.30am Feet First Dance Class *(term time) *Whit half term is 27th May-31st May inclusive) May Wed 1st 7.30pm Stocksfield W.I. Thurs 2nd 1.45pm Stocksfield South of Tyne Flower Club Fri 3rd 9.30am-Noon

Coffee morning for Macmillan Care Mon 13th 7.30pm Annual General meeting Broomley & Stocksfield Parish Council Tues 14th 7.30pm SCA Board Meeting Sat 18th 10.00am-4.00pm Tynedale Spinners & Weavers Gathering Tues 21st 7.30pm Plants & Gardens Society Thurs 23rd 7.30pm Hexham Gathering Sat 25th 10.30am Stocksfield Plants & Gardens Plant Sale 10.00am Charity Coffee morning June Mon 3rd 7.30pm Broomley & Stocksfield Parish Council

L&C BUILDING WORKS

SPECIALISING IN: Kitchens and Bathrooms Joinery Work Extensions (big or small) We do them all!

ALSO: Remedial and service work carried out on: uPVC or Aluminium Misted glass units Stuck or broken glass units Stuck or broken locks Whistling windows and draughty doors Rattling doors and letterboxes 24 HOUR CALL OUT...

ANY AREA

Call Chris on: Tel/Fax: 01661 832174 Mobile: 07730 403679

42

Tues 11th 7.30pm SCA Board Meeting Sat 15th 10.00am-4.00pm Tynedale Spinners & Weavers Sat 22nd 2.00pm Stocksfield Scouts Jumble Sale Fri 28th 2.00pm-7.00pm Blood Donor Session For further information please contact Beth at SiCA on 01661 842346 or email admin@sica.org. uk SiCA is located on Mount View Terrace,Stocksfield(near the Railway Station) Stocksfield Community Association is a Registered Charity no.1139996 and is a Company Limited

by Guarantee 7468137 Registered at Companies House, England Hexham Gathering Thurs 23rd May at 7.30pm With Ben Church and Kat Davidson and the Pupils from Broomley First School and Stocksfield Stompers.

Tickets £7/5 Available for Queens Hall 01434 652477 www.queenshall.co.uk and Stocksfield Community Centre office

Gymnastics We are a not for profit community Gymnastics club, that has been established in Riding Mill since 1979. We are members of British Gymnastics and teach general gymnastics and tumbling.

We meet every Tuesday during term time at Riding Mill Parish Hall from 5pm until 8pm.

We take children from 4 years upwards and offer excellent tuition in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

Heather Cruddis; Club Secretary rmgymnastics@hotmail.co.uk 07760 350 508; 01661 843715 R M Gymnastics Come and try a new sport! R M Gymnastics Invites you for a FREE trial We train at Riding Mill Parish Hall every Tuesday during term-time from 5pm until 8pm Both girls & boys from 4 years upwards are welcome. Please contact: Heather 07760 350508/01661 843715 or Diane 07500 010450 Email: rmgymnastics@hotmail.co.uk

DMAC Heating and Gas Services

REGISTER

FUEL HETAS WeAlso: offerSOILD a complete service, day orCERT. night for ALL PLUMBING & BATHROOMS personal attention covering ALL areas.

Personally supervised by Mr D. Johnstone MR. D. Mackenzie

35 Bells Lonnen, Prudhoe, 5FR RYTON: 0191Castlefields, 413 2318 (24NE42 hours)

01661 830 551 Mobile: 950 1 Telelephone: Kepier Chare, Crawcrook, Ryton.

Tyne07947 & Wear,506 NE40 4TS

Building & Landscaping Solutions Specialists in: Driveways Decking - Paving - Extensions Groundwork's & Property Maintance Call Chris on 01434 673063 or 07833 045540 for a free quotation and advice Visit our website for more information www.buildingandlandscapesolutions.co.uk Riding Mill, Northumberland

Corbridge Corbridge Parish Hall- Weekly Monday 9.15am – 10.00am Zumba class 10.00am – 11.30am Yoga 1.30pm – 3.30pm Circle Dancing 6.00pm – 7.00pm Pilates 7pm – 10pm Bridge Club Tuesday 9.30am – 10.15am Zumba Class 10.20am – 10.50am CXWorx 11.00am – 11.45am Step Class 10.00am – 3.00pm Art Class 2--4pm & 7--9pm Carpet Bowls 6.00pm – 7.00pm Pilates Wednesday 9.05am – 10.00am Step Class 10.00am – 3.00pm Art Class 6.30pm – 7.30pm Weight Loss Group 6.30pm – 10.30pm Bridge Club Thursday 10.00am – 12.00pm Choir 1.30pm – 2.30pm Whisper Works Children’s Art/Story Workshop 3.45pm – 5.00pm Children’s Choir 7.30pm – 9.30pm Badminton Friday 9.30am – 11.30am Badminton 5pm – 6pm Karate Class (Children) 6pm – 7pm Karate Class (Adults) For further information please contact Mandy Senior on 07500 822784 or email clerk@corbridge.gov.uk

44

Corbridge Preschool Good quality, Affordable childcare.

Currently based in the Methodist Church Hall, Princes Street, Corbridge.

Open Tues, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.15-12.00, lunch club optional extra til 1.00.

Please contact Claire Milburn 07870761730 corbridge.preschool@ googlemail.com www.corbridgepreschool.weebly. com Corbridge Circle Dancing Most Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. Corbridge Parish Hall, St Helen’s Street. Beginners (men and women) are welcome to join the circle dance class where you will be gently guided by an experienced teacher through the steps of traditional and modern dances from all over the world. No prior experience is required and you don’t need a partner. It’s good for your health and it’s fun! For details please phone Liz on 0191 2813927.

Gymnastics We are a not for profit community Gymnastics club, that has been established in Riding Mill since 1979.

We are members of British Gymnastics and teach general gymnastics and tumbling.

? n o s ’ t wha We meet every Tuesday during term time at Riding Mill Parish Hall from 5pm until 8pm. We take children from 4 years upwards and offer excellent tuition in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

Heather Cruddis Club Secretary rmgymnastics@hotmail.co.uk 07760 350 508; 01661 843715 St Andrews Church Church Services Sundays St Andrews 8:00 Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays 9:30 Parish Communion with crèche, Junior Church & Children’s corner 1st, 2nd 4th & 5th Sundays 9:30 All Age informal Worship: usually but not always 3rd Sunday 6:00 Evensong [3rd Sunday Holy Communion] St Oswald’s Halton 9:15 Holy Communion 1st Sunday Wednesdays 10:00 Holy Communion at St Andrews Morning Prayer is said each weekday at 8:45 Corbridge Health Walks Walks are lead by trained volunteers.

A choice of two walks, lasting about 1-2 hrs departing from Coigns Corner at the corner of Middle Street on each Wednesday at 10.00 am. For more information contact the co-ordinator, on

01434 613227 01434 613227.

Corbridge and District Riding Club Originally formed in 1973 and competes successfully at National level.

Membership is open to anyone aged 17 or over. Benefits of membership include access to subsidised training in a wide variety of disciplines – hopefully to suit the needs of both competitive and non competitive members.

-Throughout the year there is a varied programme of training and competitions in flatwork (including dressage to music), cross country and show jumping for all levels. Fun rides, talks, residential weekends and demonstrations are also on the agenda.

Contact www.corbridgerc.co.uk for further information.

Corbridge Methodist Church Services: Sunday Service: 10.30 am House Fellowship at 7.30 p.m. each Tuesday from September to June for Bible Study and general discussion.

Venue varies so ring 01434 632781

Matisse comes to Corbridge Iconic works by French artist Henri Matisse have arrived in Corbridge.

Matisse was a major figure in 20th-century art, famed for his innovations, dramatic colours and style. This is a rare chance to browse and buy his work in the North. Signed prints from Matisse can sell for 10s of £1 000s. Print prices here in the gallery start at a few hundred pounds. Matisse’s work is accompanied by Ukrainian artist Lubomyr Martinuk’s first British showing of his richly-coloured oils. And read right to the end, because Chris Gollon is coming to Tynedale!

Matisse, Nice – and Corbridge!

Matisse loved the silvery light of the Cote d’Azure: there is a Musee Matisse in Nice, where he lived from 1918 until his death in 1954. Matisse’s light, spirit and colour are bringing the gallery alive this spring! We have a fabulous range of his nudes, birds, leaves, seed heads, animals and illustrated poems – prints, etchings and lithographs.

Nu Bleu XII, Matisse

Les Fauves

Henri Émile Benoît Matisse was born on New Year’s Eve, 1869, in a tumbledown weaver’s cottage in Le Cateau-Cambrésis, Northern France. Matisse began painting whilst recovering from an operation, and in 1891 moved to Paris to study art at L’Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, abandoning his law career to do so. He is known for his expressive use of colour and form and his open, emotional approach – evident in the works on show. Leader of ‘Les Fauves’, the wild beasts, Matisse’s stylistic innovations spanned almost six decades. Works can also be browsed and bought on-line. The show runs until June 8th.

Coquelicots, Matisse

La Gerbe, Matisse

Spiritual Oils: Lubomyr Martinuk Equally passionate, Lubomyr Martinuk specialises in painting flowers, landscapes and still lifes. His oils are joyous and rich in colour. ‘Through colour, God fills our hearts with happiness, love and inspiration,’ Lubomyr believes. ‘We can only be amazed by the varieties of colour in a river, or by grass or flower petals, sparkling and shining, changing under the light of the sun. I see this as God’s beauty – this is the fullness of our living.’

Date for your Diary; Chris Gollon

From June 15th, we are exhibiting works by leading British artist, Chris Gollon. This passionate, perceptive and sometimes ironic artist is known for his paintings of the 14 Stations of the Cross in the Church of St John on Bethnal Green. Chris has strong links to the region: in 2009, he became a Fellow and first Artist in Residence at Durham University, taking part in the Being Human project. His paintings have featured in the Hollywood Twilight film saga and Alan Yentob’s Imagine. ‘Chris Gollon’s work is wonderfully provocative and inspiring,’ says international author Bill Bryson. Don’t miss out on this powerful show.

Jazz Night At St Mary’s, Chris Gollon

Lubomyr Martinuk Landscape

BALMAN GALLERY, Town Hall Buildings, Princes Street, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5AD. T: 01434 634 629 Monday-Saturday 10am - 5pm info@balmangallery.com www.balmangallery.com www.balmanbydesign.com

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

45

Hexham what’s on?

The NT Tyne Valley Association is a local group providing support for NT English and Scottish members.

We meet monthly from September to May in the Trinity Methodist Hall in Hexham for Talks and Social activities. During the summer months we organise Day and Holiday trips.

Details of our events can be found on www.northumberlandlife.org/ tynevalleynt/ or by contacting Mr.C.Venables 01434 608277 ‘Fitness through Exercise, Movement and Dance at the Torch Centre Thursdays 7.30-8.30pm.

Contact 01661 853365 Jog On the Tyne Network Sessions For more experienced runners or Those moving up from level 2.

Sessions incorporate some Speed, interval and hill work.

Suitable for those targeting a race.

Theses sessions run throughout the year.

Monday 1900hrs Hexham (Wentworth Leisure Centre)- Out & About run starting October.

Wednesday 1830hrs Hexham (Wentworth Leisure Centre) Thursday 0930hrs Hexham (Wentworth Leisure Centre) Thursday 1815hrs Ponteland (Ponteland Leisure Centre) Cost: You can pay termly, half termly or as you run (different rates apply).

Need more information or wish to book. Please email info@ jogonthetyne.co.uk or call Jen on 07919 591 270 or Kate on 07772 471 027.

Don’t forget we are on Twitter and Facebook and we are also launching our website very shortly so please do visit:www.jogonthetyne.co.uk Factory Dance Academy Every Tuesday and Thursday at the Community Centre, Hexham from 4pm to 6pm. Urban street dance classes for 4 to 14 year olds in Hip Hop, Pop Grooves, Street Dance, Zumbatonic and Hip Hop Totz.

Cost £2.50.

Every Tuesday at the Torch Centre, Hexham from 7.15pm.

Bokwa and zumba classes for adults from 7.15pm. See www. factorydanceacademy.co.uk or call 01670 363 037 for details.

Hexham and District Photographic Society We meet on Tuesday evenings at 7-30 pm in the Lockhart Room, Moot Hall, Market Place, Hexham.

We meet every week from the beginning of September through to the end of April.

We welcome all abilities from very raw beginners to advanced photographers. We have a very varied programme throughout

46

our season to suit all levels of photography.

Anyone interested in coming along will be made very welcome and they can turn up at the club, contact our webmaster via our website www. hexhamphotographic.org.uk.

The Rotary Club of Hexham Meet every Monday lunch time at 12:30pm at the Beaumont Hotel in Hexham. This is an active club whose members organise a variety of social and fundraising events in support of a variety of charities. New members are always welcome.”

“Information about the Club and its activities can be can be obtained by visiting the club website at www.hexhamrotaryclub.org or by contacting the Secretary using the contact form on the website.”

Tynedale U3A This is an organisation comprising self help groups (including walking, literature, botany, languages, Tai Chi, Museum visits etc) for the retired and semi retired, who come together to share their skills, experience, and knowledge.

They meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 2pm in the Trinity Methodist Church hall, Beaumont Street, Hexham. The groups meet in members’ homes or the Trinity Hall.

All welcome!!

Hexham Brass Band We are a group of brass musicians who have recently formed a new brass band in Hexham. We practise in the West End Methodist church in Hexham on Tuesday evenings from 7.15pm. Anyone who plays a brass instrument (or even percussion) would be welcome to come along to join us. The contact number for us is “Sue” 07811 175849.

Music and Movement classes for pre-school children. Join us for affordable half-hour sessions on Fridays: Beaumont Street, Hexham.

Please contact Sheelagh on Tel: 01434 601017 to book your place.

First session free!

Hexham Youth Initiative Provides projects and opportunities for local young people. Based at Hexham Community Centre.

Contact Keda Norma 01434 607350 Hexham Partnership of Schools Extended Services Aims to provide a comprehensive support network for young people and their families. Contact Christine Pearson 01434 610357 Queen Elizabeth High School – Youth Theatre Meets all year round on Wednesday 4:30 – 6:30pm and is open to all young people aged 13 – 21. Contact Emily Macdonald 01434 610365

The QEHS Charter Restaurant and Conference Centre Licensed for Weddings, parties, concerts, meetings to the Hire of School Premises. Offers excellent facilities at very reasonable prices.

Contact Carole Brown for restaurant bookings – Debbie Graham now deals with all conference bookings -01434 610341.

Hire of Queen Elizabeth High School Premises Facilities and outside playing areas are available to hire during the evening and at weekends. Contact Debbie Graham 01434 610341.

QEHS Community & Leisure Programme Adult Learning Classes Contact Karen Armstrong-Jordan

01434 610322 Hadrian’s Wall Rotary Club Meet every Thursday at 7:30pm at the RAFA Club in Hexham. This is a small group of enthusiastic Rotary members who are lively and not excessively formal and are on the lookout for new members. They are all relatively young (average age is under 40) the club organise several events a year of which the most popular is the Curry night every autumn.

Hexhamshire W.I. Whitley Chapel Hall. 1st Wed in month. Always have a speaker, night’s out/BBQ’s etc. Thoroughly good time. For further details, contact: Vivien 01434 605189

All your gardening needs at discount prices!

Hexham/ Waitrose

Tyne Mills Industrial Estate, Hexham, NE46 1XL

Tel: 01434

600920

Tyne Green We Are Here

Tyne Mills Garage

A69

“You, Pain-Free and Healthy?”

(Or, frustrated that you’re not?)

Dear friend, I know this seems crazy, but I’ve got to get something off my chest.

Every day, people come to see me that have suffered for months or years, and are still suffering. Some tell me that they’ve “tried everything.”

and allergies completely disappeared. Chiropractic worked so well for me, and I was so impressed with the other ‘miracles’ I saw in chiropractic offices, that I eventually went to chiropractic school myself. And that’s how it happened!”

They claim they’ve had “every” test, wound up with huge medical bills, but are still no better off.

Often, they’ve been subjected to medications that have only served to temporarily mask symptoms.

That’s not what most people are looking for.

People that come to see me are My mum, Barbara suffered with looking to be pain free and healthy severe back pain from bulged again. That’s what we do. discs, sometimes for months on end. She had always feared going Health, or the lack of it, very often to a chiropractor, but when she did has simple causes, and very ‘give in’, she realized that reasonable corrections. That’s adjustments are comfortable and what I’m going to tell you about. effective. Today she attends gyms But, before I tell you more, let me 5 times a week and on the odd tell you something about me… occasion she does feel discomfort it is minimal and short lived.

Years ago something happened to me that changed my life For the last three years, people forever. Let me tell you my story. from Scotland and South Africa and the surrounding areas have “As a young boy I was an avid come to see me with their sportsman and did anything that problems. Some of these include: my schools or clubs would offer me. I then started to experience  Headaches severe knee pain whenever I ran  Migraines which was put down as “growing  Chronic Pain pains”. As the pain got worse and  Neck Pain continued for years I saw every doctor and specialist my mother  Shoulder/Arm Pain had heard about or been  Whiplash from car recommended to, with little accidents temporary relief and absolutely no  Backaches longer term changes. To my  Numbness in limbs horror, the only option I was given  Athletic injuries was to stop all sports or athletic Just to name a few… activities…. But, there’s more…

A friend convinced my mum to give his practitioner a try. This new practitioner does an exam, takes some x-ray films, and then ‘adjusts’ my spine. Oh, and by the way, this practitioner is a chiropractor. My mother had been to a chiropractor before but thought that they were only for neck and back pain, and surely would not be able to help a child.

The adjustment did not hurt, it actually felt really good. I got relief, and shortly afterward I was able to run pain-free again. As time went on under care I noticed my asthma

These patients of mine tell their successes: “I found that my recovery period after exercise has decreased. More surprisingly I find that my general emotional state has become balanced and I seem to be coping a lot better than I ever have. (Neil – Johannesburg, South Africa) “Being a sportsman, my body gets thrown out often and different problems will arise.

I would recommend Glenn as he is not only a top man but someone who understands what the patient is going through. Now I

try to see him as often as possible to get me confidence, wellbeing and ready for play. (Dane, Professional enjoyment of life. cricketer – Cape Town, South Africa) Many people find that they actually “I was unceasingly impressed not just with save money on their health care the quality of Glenn’s chiropractic expenses by seeing a chiropractor.

Another way to treatment, but also by the genuine personal save…peer-reviewed published warmth and interest he showed to and in studies show that chiropractic may all his patients, whatever their age or increase immune system circumstances. He was very interested in indicators, naturally and without the interaction of body and brain in drugs. The immune system fights children on the Autistic Spectrum and in colds, the flu, and other sicknesses. adults with mental health diagnoses. He So you may not be running off to did a very helpful piece of work with my the doctor as much. This is son who suffers from schizophrenia. especially important if you are self-employed.

(Catherine – Edinburgh, UK) Special Offer-Look, I know “I fractured my wrist and in Feb 2012, I you’re smart. You want to get to had a lipoma removed from my quadricep the cause of your problem, and not muscle. Glenn helped me heal on all just cover it up with drugs. So, levels-physically, emotionally and when you call to schedule a new spiritually. I always looked forward to my patient visit (by May 30th 2013) treatments with Glenn and enjoyed the you’ll receive that entire visit for process of recovery that he facilitated for just £37. That’s with initial consultation, full physical me. Glenn helped me emerge as a much examination, x-rays, paraspinal stronger person which I never thought postural imaging….the whole lot, would be possible following the two and there’s no hidden fees. The operations I had just been through. Since cost of this new patient visit is undergoing care with Glenn, my thyroid usually £200. But, call right away medication has been reduced from 6 tablets because on Thursday, 30th May a day to 1, and my goitre has reduced to 2013 at exactly 7p.m., this offer almost non-existent. Thanks to this I will expire. Our goal is to give you the best care we can possibly give have avoided dangerous surgery. you. You’ll get great care at a great Glenn has a deep interest in his profession fee. My qualifications…I’m a and this is apparent in his great skill as a Magna cum Laude graduate of Life Chiropractor” Chiropractic College West and I (Elle – Johannesburg, South Africa) have just moved from South Africa to join the team at Family Here’s the most important thing I Chiropractic and I just have that have to say. Your body is made to low exam fee to help more people heal itself, and it does that best who need care. when it’s free of nerve interference. So, as much as I’d My assistant is Lucy and she is a like the credit, I can’t take it. I’ve really great person. Our office is never healed anyone of anything. I both friendly and warm and we try analyze the nerve system and the our best to make you feel at home. spine and perform specific spinal We have a wonderful service, at an adjustments to remove nerve exceptional fee. Our office is called pressure. The body responds, and FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC often it heals itself once that nerve and it’s at Sele Gate House, 1 interference is removed.

Hencotes, Hexham, NE46 2EG. Our phone number is 01434 Dr Robert Banks H.L Blanks PhD, 605688. Call Lucy today for an University of California College of appointment. We can help you.

Medicine Professor, conducted a Thank you and God Bless. ‘wellness and quality of life’ study Glenn Caley, D.C. on 2818 chiropractic patients. The study indicated that chiropractic P.S. Of course, all people respond patients reported significant differently to care. No-one can positive enhancements in their ever guarantee a cure for any physical health, increased ability to condition (not even me!) deal with mental and emotional stress and an increase in overall

©2009

SUMMER OFFER Free home deliveries to all our customers every Saturday. (ring our Heighley Gate shop for details)

ROTHBURY FAMILY BUTCHERS Officially one of Britain’s Best Butchers!

• Regional, national, and international award winning sausages.

• Home of the cragside cracker (voted the North East’s best sausage).

• Award winning delicatessen, home baked pies and pastries.

• Suppliers of pubs and restaurants • Online shop available.

Nationwide delivery.

• Now at Heighley Gate Garden Centre (Morpeth).

Heighley Gate Garden Centre , Morpeth, NE61 3DA 01670 504141

Now a Multi Award Winning Butchers Winning Homemade sausage around. Having won Regional, National stilton, venison & red wine, pork & caramelised onion and our now famous “Cragside Cracker” we have something for everyone.

All our range of pork, beef and lamb is British and is sourced locally where at all possible. We are widely regarded as one of the countries made on the premises.

For the exotic lover we also stock a range of exotic meats including Crocodile, Kangaroo, Ostrich, Wildebeest and Zebra.

BBQ packs available

Townfoot, Rothbury, Northumberland, NE65 7SS 01669 620 744

www.rothburyfamilybutchers.co.uk

Hexham The co-operative funeralcare Our caring staff are here to listen and advise you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Blaydon

0191 414 2925 Prudhoe

01661 833 078

Building & Landscaping Solutions

Crawcrook

0191 413 9271

Specialists in: Driveways Decking - Paving - Extensions Groundwork's & Property Maintance

Hexham

01434 600119

Call Chris on 01434 673063 or 07833 045540 for a free quotation and advice Visit our website for more information www.buildingandlandscapesolutions.co.uk Riding Mill, Northumberland

Welcome to Comet Garage Doors

90% OF OUR WORK

IS FROM RECOMMENDATION VISIT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM! 01207 270 711 07801 926 355 www.cometgaragedoors.co.uk

Serving Durham and Newcastle since 1968, we want to be your first choice when you are looking for a new or replacement garage door.

90% of our work is through recommendation, this shows “where you buy is just as important as what you buy.�

We offer a complete supply and fit service.

We also offer a supply only option for you to fit yourself.

We carry out repairs to all makes and types of Garage Doors.

We carry cones, cables and locks for most doors.

All our doors are from leading UK manufacturers.

Comet Garage Doors are authorised distributors for: Gliderol - Henderson - Cardale - Hormann - Seceuroglide.

We supply and fit Garage doors in all areas in the North East of England. l l l l

GARAGE DOORS REMOTE CONTROL SPECIALISTS

l l l l l

Cometqtr Dec09.indd 1

26/11/2009 14:45

Up and Over Garage Doors Insulated Roller Doors Sectional Garage Doors Roller Doors Automatic Operators Security Shutters Security Grills / Gates Removable Window Bars Bar Gates

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

49

FULL

LEATHER RESTORATION SERVICE Before

After

Before

After

•CAR SEATS •FURNITURE •HAND BAGS •ETC

LEATHER CARE & REPAIR SPECIALISTS Most repairs can be undertaken leather technicians, or larger jobs brought into our fully equipped workshop.

• Rips • Cigarette Burns • Holes • Cat Scratches • Re-colouring • Colour Matching • Cleaning • Cracking • Stain removal.

Repairing leather is approximately 20% of the cost of re-upholstering Unit 6c, Coquet Enterprise Park, Amble, Northumberland, NE65 0PE tel/fax: 0800 0141774 mobile: 07882 586 552 web: www.furnitureclinic.co.uk

Hexham People & Pictures

The late winter into early spring was a good for me, it allowed me to photograph many places in the snow that I had not previously captured. However, not soon enough, spring is with us with its longer warmer days. By the time you read this the cold, dark days will be a distant memory (we hope) and we will all be gearing up to summer. As spring and summer progresses landscape photography becomes a lesser part of my life. The sun climbs higher in the sky, the countryside turns predominately green making the pictures less interesting. The sun sets and rises too far to the north to align well with Hadrian’s Wall meaning that getting up ludicrously early in the morning is a waste of time and not necessary – that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it. This is the time I turn to one of my favourite activities – sitting. I find a scenic location and photograph people, not intrusively, but as people in the landscape and doing things. This can effectively be done by sitting with the maximum saving of energy and effort on hot day - a bit of relaxation after the more energetic autumn through winter into spring.

I can think of three good reasons to put people into pictures. People, whether you know them or not, can be the best way to indicate size and distance. We know roughly the size of a person so we can then estimate roughly the size of an object, the scale of a landscape or how far away the object

is. We have all done it, stood aghast at the sheer size of a mountain range, and photographed it making it look a fraction a size of the row of houses you live in. Distant people are our reference point. Equally a hut or a building can become our reference point.

The second reason is to remember people we met and whose company we enjoyed, or people that are of interest e.g. someone in national costume.

In this case the person is the subject and as such can well fill much more or most of the picture. You may wish to leave space around them to show their environment. Don’t forget most of us (even my portly frame) are taller than we are wide so it is often better to turn the camera on to its side for the subject to better fit the frame.

Putting ourselves and those with us in pictures reminds us vividly of a holiday – the places we have been to, the people we were with or met, and the things we did. For most people this is what holidays are very much about. My preference is to show family and friends doing things in the holiday destination. To me this gives more of a flavour of the holiday and the nature and character of where we have been.

There are no rules about holiday pictures and to most of us we will always enjoy looking at them.

Perhaps a moment or two thinking about what we want our pictures to show will enhance those memories and make them that bit more enjoyable to relive and to show others. These days we have the benefit of the playback to check what we have just done. When I was young, when most people

were amazed if the pictures “came out”, within my family we used to say that you had a choice with family photos “You can have either your feet or your head in the picture because you surely would never get both”. Is there anyone reading this who can sympathise with that?

May you get many memorable spring and summer pictures.

Roger Clegg www.northern-horizons.co.uk Northern Horizons at Artful, Hexham

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

51

The Famous Carpet Warehouse

Carpet your full house for £899 all in!

9 9 8 £ *

Hall, Stairs & Landing

Dining Room

3 Bedrooms

Lounge

We beat ’ll price the Tom, of any or Fr Dick ank!

Guara nteed **

Beware of other so-called ‘full house deals’ which don’t include fitting or delivery!!

Our deal includes everything needed to complete the job: 100% polypropylene feltback stain resistant carpet in a choice of colours Grippers & Door Bars Delivery and expert fitting

Northumberland’s Best Value Carpet Store

www.ilovecarpets.com

43 Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QB Tel: 01434 606570 Terms and conditions apply. Ask in store for written details. ** We are confident that our prices are the most competitive you’ll find.

If you do find another retailer who can sell an identical product from stock at a lower price, we guarantee to beat it!

That’s The Carpet Warehouse Price Promise.

*

Hexham

Baby Led Weaning On a visit to the beach one day whilst recently in Australia with friends, I volunteered to watch our clutch of children giving everyone a chance to frolic in the surf. To my horror I spotted little 7 month old Flynn putting grapes in his mouth and as quick as a flash I whipped them out sure that I had saved him from a choking disaster. As I related my lifesaving story to my friend, she calmly explained to me that they were following the ‘baby led weaning’ philosophy and he was fine to eat grapes as well as anything else he fancied. Baby led weaning was something I was not at all familiar with until now. Basically, they were leaving feeding choices up to Flynn from the moment he showed any interest in food and was able to put it into his mouth.

That all makes sense but what about the potential for choking I asked my friend? She went onto explain that gagging, as opposed to choking, is actually a safety response to food travelling too far back into the mouth so when we see our babies gagging they are actually handling the problem and it’s best just to keep calm and wait until it passes. To prevent choking, make sure your infant is sitting up to eat and they feed themselves so they can control their food, rather than you putting food into their mouth. Importantly, don’t offer you baby finger food when they are hungry as they cannot really eat it and it will lead to frustration and potential choking as they try to fill an empty tummy, give them their milk feed first, and then they can enjoy the experimentation with food.

Baby led weaning simply means giving infants solid finger food and allowing them to master eating for themselves, rather than being spoon fed pureed food. Spoon feeding purees came about as parents were encouraged to start feeding their infants who were not yet able to feed themselves, however the World Health Organisation advocates exclusive breastfeeding for at least 6 months as breast milk is considered a whole food and contains all the nutrition a baby requires in the early part of its life without the need for supplementation. Before 6 months an infant’s digestive system and immune system are too immature to cope with solid food anyway and forcing babies to eat too early may promote food intolerances and allergies. When a baby is ready and able to put food in its mouth this is a sign their little body is ready for solids.

Baby led weaning should be fun so babies enjoy the ritual of eating, but be wary not to turn it into a game like pretending their food is a ‘choo choo train’ as they will rely on being entertained in order to eat which can lead to fussy eating, painfully long meal times and frustrated parents.

Belinda Ambrose Chiropractor & Wellness Educator familychiropractic@btconnect.com www.familychiropractic.uk.com

Bear in mind, baby led weaning is a messy affair so be prepared with big bibs and possibly plastic sheeting on the floor.

Google YouTube to find the baby chomping on a pork chop, it’s hilarious and I think we might just give it a go with Beatrice.

Baby led weaning also promotes hand eye coordination, allows the baby to socialise with the rest of the family at meal times, helps develop good table manners and could prevent fussy eating since they are allowed to eat the food they want rather than having it thrust upon them. Imagine not having the choice of what to eat and being forced to eat mashed food without texture or differing tastes just as we expect our little ones to eat? If they enjoy their food, it may protect them later from developing eating disorders. Infants will eat what they need and when, according to what their little bodies need.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

53

A. Douglas Construction Ltd Professional & Reliable www.adouglasconstruction.co.uk

I would like to introduce my company, A.Douglas Construction.

We have been established for over 10 years and are a building company based on a family tradition with a reputation for quality project management, timely delivery and aftercare service.

All work undertaken is fully guaranteed and is completed to the highest standards of quality control.

Our time-served, quality tradesmen offer a full construction service, including: ●

Extensions & alterations

●

●

Timber frame construction

● ●

●

Design to completion

●

●

Specialist joinery

●

●

Refurbishments

●

●

Kitchen design and installation

● ●

Plumbing and heating All types of electrical work Porches Garages Commercial work Insurance repairs Conservatories uPVC windows

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Dry verges Fascia and soffit Plastering Dry lining Block paving/flagging Driveways Fencing Drainage

For a free no obligation quotation contact: Anthony Douglas

Tel: 0191 267 8360

Mobile: 07967 250744

email: adouglasconstruction@btinternet.com

Hexham Queen’s Hall MAY

Traditional Music The Spiers Family: Traditional Songs & Ballads Tuesday 7 May 7.30pm Tom, Maggie & Emma Spiers sing a variety of folk songs, mainly but not exclusively traditional material from the north east of Scotland. Their presentation ranges in style from a cappella, to arrangements accompanied

by Tom on Fiddle or Tenor Guitar.

Tickets: £7.50 / £6.00 (Friends) / £4.00 (student). The Exchange Café Rock n Roll Marty Wilde and The Wildcats

Thursday 9 May 7.30pm A chance to see, live on stage, one of the last performing rock ‘n’ roll pioneers in the world today.

Marty began his career in 1957 and was one of the first British singers to play a leading part in those early formative and groundbreaking rock ‘n’ roll years.

Tickets: £18.50. Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Community Dance Splitz presents Fit and Fashionable Friday 10 May 7.00pm This popular annual event features dance, song and fashion and is being held in support of SixtyEightyThirty.

Tickets: £8.50 / £6.50 (Under 16s / Over 60s) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Comedy Big Owl Comedy Club Saturday 11 May 8.30pm Big Owl Comedy presents some of the freshest and funniest stand-up talent working on the national circuit today.

Tickets: £8.50 / £4.00 (student) The Exchange Café The Gramophones Theatre Company

presents End to End

Tuesday 21 May 7.30pm In April 2012 three women made a daring and unusual journey from one end of Great Britain to the other.

Trusting only to their resourcefulness and the kindness of strangers they made an 18 day, 874 mile journey from Land’s

End to John O’Groats (including a visit to Hexham).

In End to End they tell the heartwarming story of their journey, the trials and tribulations faced along the way and the unexpected acts of kindness they encountered.

Tickets: £13.50 / £11.50 (Friends / benefit conc) / £8.50 (student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Film Film in the Theatre: Searching for Sugarman (12A) Thursday 23 May 8.00pm Unknown to 70s Detroit folksinger Sixto Rodriguez, he became a pop music icon in South Africa. Rumoured to be dead, a few fans decided to seek out the truth of their hero’s fate. What follows is a bizarrely heartening story in which they found far more in their quest than they ever hoped. (2012) Tickets: £4.50 / £3.50 (Friends / Film Club Member) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Jazz Club Thursday 23 May 8.00pm Play along with the rhythm section of the evening in an informal atmosphere then sit back and enjoy the guests.

Tickets: £3.00 on the door / Under 18s free. The Exchange Café Big Band Nick Ross Orchestra presents Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era Friday 24 May 7.30pm.

With a line-up of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, a rhythm section and singers, the Nick Ross Orchestra faithfully recreate the Big Band sound of the 1940s featuring hits from Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Ted Heath, Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, Les Brown, Benny Goodman, Ray Noble, and Stan Kenton amongst others.

Tickets: £17.50 / £16.50 (Friends / benefit conc / student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Traditional Music Hexham Gathering 2013 Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 May Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Community Music Core Music, in association with Queen’s Hall Arts, presents Core Rock Wednesday 29 May 7.30pm An opportunity to come and listen to extended sets from our recent Rock Foundation students. Classic tunes, great riffs, power house playing with some surprises thrown in. Come and support local talent and get ready to rock!

Tickets: £7.50 / £4.50 (conc) / £18 (family) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre

Film Film in the Theatre: Hook (U) Thursday 30 May 2.00pm Peter Pan (Robin Williams) has grown up to be a lawyer, and is married to Wendy’s granddaughter. Captain Hook (Dustin Hoffman) kidnaps his children, and Peter returns to Never Land with Tinkerbell ( Julia Roberts). (1991) Tickets: £3.00 Queen’s Hall Arts Centre

?

n o s ’ t a wh Theatre Blackeyed Theatre presents Teechers by John Godber Friday 14 June 7.30pm

JUNE

Theatre MsFits Theatre presents I Spy Mrs Peery Sat1 June 7.30pm A thought-provoking slice of life focussing on three female neighbours, I Spy Mrs Peery is an hilarious, yet at times extremely moving, one woman show. Tickets: £13.50 / £11.50 (Friends / benefit conc) / £8.50 (student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Dance EDge Tuesday 4 June 7.30pm EDge’s eleven exceptional dancers perform an electric evening of dance when the company returns to the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre. This collection of work from leading and up-andcoming dancemakers, performed by some of the artform’s most talented young artists, gives you a fresh opportunity to watch the future of dance today.

Tickets: £13.50 / £11.50 (Friends / benefit conc) / £8.50 (student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Exhibition The Art Tour Showcase Saturday 8 June – Saturday 20 July GALLERY ONE - Network Artists celebrate the 18th anniversary of the Art Tour this June and the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre is offering a unique opportunity to see selected work all together under one roof.

The Art Tour is proud to be part of the Festival of the North East.

Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Exhibition Traces Saturday 8 June – Saturday 29 June GALLERY TWO - This annual exhibition showcases the artwork of Queen Elizabeth High School A-Level students in a gallery context, something that allows the work to shine and exist independently from the requirements of the education system. Queen’s Hall Film Film in the Theatre: Stranger than Fiction (12A)Thursday 13 June 8.00pm An IRS auditor suddenly finds himself the subject of narration only he can hear: narration that begins to affect his entire life, from his work, to his loveinterest, to his death. Stars Will Ferrell, Emma Thompson and Dustin Hoffman.

(2006) Tickets: £4.50 / £3.50 (Friends / Film Club Member). Queen’s Hall.

Jazz Club Thursday 13 June 8.00pm Play along with the rhythm section of the evening in an informal atmosphere then sit back and enjoy the guests.

Tickets: £3.00 on the door / Under 18s free. The Exchange Café

Brought to the stage by highly acclaimed Blackeyed Theatre with high energy, break-neck comedy and breathtaking ensemble performances, Teechers is a modern classic with something vital to say about education for the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’. Suitable for aged 12yrs+ Tickets: £13.50 / £11.50 (Friends / benefit conc) / £8.50 (student) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Comedy Big Owl Comedy Club Saturday 15 June 8.30pm Big Owl Comedy presents some of the freshest and funniest stand-up talent working on the national circuit today.

Tickets: £8.50 / £4.00 (student) The Excahgen Café Community Theatre Queen’s Hall Theatre Club presents When We Are Married by J.B. Priestley Thurs 20 - Sat 22 June 7.30pm Priestley’s classic Yorkshire comedy finds three smug, long-married couples in a bit of a scandal. Tickets: £10.00 / £9.00 (conc) / £7.00 (Under 18s) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre Theatre / Comedy Oddsocks Productions presents The Comedy of Errors Wednesday 26 – Thurs 27 June 7.00pm At Dilston Hall, Corbridge Oddsocks Productions have been touring family-friendly adaptations of Shakespeare every summer for the last twenty three years and 2013 will see this mad-cap, tongue in cheek company perform Shakespeare’s shortest and most farcical of comedies. Tickets: £13.50 / £11.50 (Friends) / £10.00 (benefit conc / student / groups of 4 or more) Queen’s Hall Arts Centre

For all enquiries contact the Queen’s Hall Box Office on:

01434 652477

or book online at: www.queenshall.co.uk

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

55

Hexham

No 50% Sale No FREE Appliances Just honest Value for Money!

Fully fitted Kitchens from £2995 Bathrooms from £2995 Bedrooms from £1295

kit chens & bat hrooms lt d

Tel: 0191 414 2438 Mobile: 07825 337 885 Email: paul@simmerandsoak.co.uk

www.simmerandsoak.co.uk

Unit 4, Blaydon Business Centre, Cowden Road, Blaydon, NE21 5TW

56

Hexham

Sele First School Summer Fair Every year the PTA of Sele First School organises a summer fair to raise money for our school. The Raffle is one of the most popular events of the Fair. Each year we have a theme for our Summer Fair. Last year, inspired by the Olympics, our theme was “The Olympics” while this year, our theme is “Cirque du Sele”.

This year our Fair will take place on Saturday 15th June and we will have lots of stalls, food, activities for the children, and, hopefully, glorious June weather!

grandparents, family, friends and neighbours, we have a huge local audience for your business and services, if you are able to contribute to our raffle. We issue a list of raffle prizes to all families in the school before the Fair and the list is also available on the day.

The Fair is a great day out for pupils, family and friends of the school, but of course it is also a major opportunity for the PTA to raise funds. This year we are raising money for new and exciting equipment for our playground to help the children develop their confidence, adventurousness and agility.

If you would like to discuss any part of this process, please do not hesitate to call Kirsty Wills on 0776 1911992, by email: kjwills32@ aol.com or through the school at the above address.

We look forward to seeing you all for a fabulous fun filled Summer day 15th June.

If you are a local business looking to support this school in the heart of Hexham, and with a roll of nearly 500 pupils, plus parents,

With all the above in mind, any businesses interested in supporting us we would be very grateful if you would consider donating a prize for our raffle. Ideally, we would like prizes confirmed by early June if possible.

Kirsty Wills Sele First School PTA Sele First School Hexham NE46 3QZ 29th April 2013

We look forward to seeing you all for a fabulous fun filled Summer day on

Saturday 15th June.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

57

Looking after what's important

In divorce cases involving children we think first as parents and then as lawyers.

Divorce is not an easy time for anyone, but we will work with you to create the best outcome for you and your children, dealing with your individual circumstances with compassion and respect as well as professionalism.

Visit our website to find out more:

www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk

The divorce and family law specialists t 01661 82 45 82

e enquiries@majorfamilylaw.co.uk

12 West Road

Ponteland

NE20 9SU

? n o s ’ t wha St Mary’sChurch, Ponteland Sunday 8.00am Holy Communion 1st Sunday of the month 10.00am Family Service 2nd Sunday of the month 10.00am Holy Communion with Hymns 3rd Sunday of the month 10.00am 10.00am Morning Service with Baptisms 4th Sunday of the month 10.00am Holy Communion with Hymns 5th Sunday of the month - please see Diary. Please join us for coffee in the Church Hall after the 10.00am service.

1st and 3rd Sundays 6.30pm - Choral Evensong 2nd and 4th Sundays - 6.30pm Evening Prayer Weekday Services Wednesdays 10.00am - Holy Communion Visit our website for all activities and events www.pontelandstmary. co.uk

Ponteland Civic Society Meetings to be held at 7.30 pm. St. Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, at which non members are cordially invited to attend for a nominal charge.

Pont Charity Group Three Ponteland men have set-up a small charity, not in opposition to the established fund-raisers, but specifically to support in a small way The Poor, and The Afflicted.

Our next event is being held on TUESDAY 4th.June, 7pm at Ponteland Memorial Hall. This concert will feature music from the Male Quartet – “Just4Men” – Leader & MC – David Conway and also Soprano – Marjorie Archer, in support of the Great North Air Ambulance. Tickets are available from Mackley & Steven, 25 Main Street, Ponteland; Newcastle Building Society, 23 Broadway, Darras Hall.

Ponteland Methodist Church by the traffic lights Sunday services 10am & 6.30pm Sunday 10am ‘Stepping Stones’ for children. Monday ‘Open door’ drop-in café, 2pm - 5pm, scones/ cakes/friendship. House groups & Fellowship meetings Walking & Art groups Carpet Bowls & Luncheon Club Prayer & Fairtrade groups Youth Club & Pushchair Club & Messy Church. Girls Brigade & Boys Brigade & MUCH MORE! - Contact Ann on 01661 824347 Ponteland Photographic Society Merton Hall, Ponteland www. pontelandphotographicsociety. co.uk We meet each Monday at

7.30pm in Merton Hall, Ponteland.

The Society is very friendly, informal and always welcomes new members.

The programme ranges from visiting speakers, through workshops to competitions with the aim of helping everyone improve their photography and solve problems. There is lots more information, including a full calendar of events, on the website or call Mike Sadler on 01661 823519.

Yoga Classes in Ponteland Drop in morning classes: Monday - 10-11 Ponteland Memorial Thursday - 10 – 11 St. Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Rd Plus: Evening class: Wednesdays 6.30 – 8.00 pm in Ponteland Leisure Centre (Function Room upstairs) Drop- in or courses available.

Ring: Felicity 01661-854984 or 07856550559 Email: felicitypullen@tiscali.co.ukVisit: www.felicitysyoga.com for more details Ponteland Embroiderers’ Guild Meet at St. Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland from 2.30pm to 4pm.

Tea or coffee and biscuits served at all meetings. a friendly welcome is offered to everyone. A visitor’s fee of £3 is charged.

Further information from Sandra Rusby 01661 832172 Ponteland Badminton Club meet every Friday evening 8:30-10:00 at Ponteland Leisure Centre. Adults of all ages will be assured of a warm welcome. Just come along or contact 07986 388 822 for more information.

Ponteland Senior Gentlemens Club The aim of the Club, founded in 1975, is to promote fellowship within the community.

Membership is open to gentlemen over the age of 55. Present membership is about 100 but new members are always welcome.

Meetings are held on the second Monday of every month at the Memorial hall, Ponteland at 2.00 for 2.30 pm. Each month there is a guest speaker, the talk being followed by tea and biscuits. The speaker programme can be seen in the events book at Ponteland Library. There are no attendance rules nor are apologies for absence required. You attend when you wish to. Ponteland Senior Gentlemen’s Club Secretary Donald F Lloyd Tel: 01661 872661 Ponteland Local History Society St Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland. 2nd Thursday in month.

7.30pm – 9.00pm. visitors welcome.

Admission £1.50 Ponteland History Local Society Archive desk – Ponteland library every Friday 2pm – 5pm.

Messy Church Ponteland Methodist Church the second Saturday of the month from 4-6pm. All ages welcome, bring an adult along. Art ,craft and worship followed by a light meal. Contact Hannah Middleton for more information on 0191 2713556 Ponteland United Reformed Church Sunday morning services 10.00am. Church cafe 2nd Sunday of the month at 6.30pm. Friday lunches 12.30pm.

Coffee lounge: Tue 2.30pm – 4.30pm, Wed 10.30am – 12.30pm and 3.00pm – 5.00pm, Thurs 10.30am – 12.30pm

Ponteland Floral Art Club 3rd Tuesday of the month, Ponteland Memorial Hall, Darras Road 7.30pm Alpine Garden Society 2nd Monday of the month, st. Mary’s Church Hall, Ponteland 7.30pm Northumberland Fuchsia Society 1st Thursday of the month, St Matthew’s Church Hall, Ponteland 7.30pm. Ponteland Civic Society.

Ponteland U3A Meet every first Wednesday in the month at 2pm in St Mary’s Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland.

90% OF OUR WORK

IS FROM RECOMMENDATION VISIT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM! 01207 270 711 07801 926 355 www.cometgaragedoors.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS REMOTE CONTROL SPECIALISTS

Cometqtr Dec09.indd 1

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

26/11/2009 14:45

59

CARPET FOR LESS! FULL

BEDROOM

NORTH EA

Stain Free Luxury Saxony H/weight Underlay WAS £308 All Accessories

ST’S CHEA

HOUSE of

FITTED NOW ONLY £179 FREE!

Stain Free Luxury Stripe H/weight Underlay All Accessories W

AS £328

FITTED NOW ONLY FREE! £189

*Stock lin

es only

ANYONE CHEAPER?

LIVING ROOM

WE GIVE YO

Hugh MacKay 55oz 80/20 Wool 10mm Underlay All Accessories WAS £74

4

£1000

FITTED NOW ONLY £389 FREE! KITCHEN

FITTED! WAS £406

£199

Vinyl+All Acc’s Rhino non slip 15 Year Warranty

FITTED! WAS £235

CARPETS

FREE FITTING

HALL STAIRS LANDING

Laminate+Acc’s 8mm 4V beveled 30 Year Warranty

PEST

*All deals based on specific room sizes - ask for details

7 OPEN 7 DAYS

AXMINSTER SPECIALISTS

LANDLORD DEALS

1000’S OF REMNANTS

TRADE & RETAIL

U

†Ask for de

tails

KARPET MILLS

£115 www.karpetmills.co.uk 8b Airport Industrial Estate, KINGSTON PARK, NE3 2EF. Telephone: 0191 271 6576

Darras Hall & Ponteland Make Merry in May

Hard though it may be to believe, May is upon us. It seems that in these harsh times of austerity, even Spring has been subject to drastic cuts.

Nevertheless, the calendar announces that May is indeed here, and with it, apparently, the official start of Summer. You did, in fact, hear correctly!

May Day is a tradition which can be traced back to Roman times and to the Celtic festival of Beltane. The Roman festival, Floralia, was held between 28th April and 3rd May and both festivals symbolized the renewal of the cycle of life, and the beginning of summer.

Whilst many pagan festivals were subsequently merged into Christian celebrations, May Day became largely a secular celebration, noted in England for its maypoles, Morris dancers, and May Queens.

Whilst the origin of the maypole remains unknown, the May Queen is accepted as a representation of the Roman Goddess, Flora, whose role it is to preside over the celebrations.

The festival was always a day of holiday: originally, it was a time when the sowing of seeds was complete and therefore a convenient time

to give workers a day’s holiday. Later, with the arrival of the industrial revolution, workers in many countries campaigned for better working hours and conditions, and strikes took place on 1st May. Today, 1st May is a national holiday in more than 80 countries and celebrated unofficially in many other countries, known alternately as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day. You may recall the huge May Day parades in Soviet Russia, or the protests in London and other major cities in recent years staged by the anti-capitalist movement.

You may also be interested to know that it was as recently as 1978 that the celebration was declared to be a Bank Holiday in this country, so that it is now celebrated on the first Monday in May rather than the first day, and everyone is entitled to a day’s holiday.

In these challenging times, with lack of money, employment, and state assisted support repeatedly topping the current affairs agenda, it may feel that there is little to celebrate.

Whilst there are always plenty of bank holiday events organised around the region, it took some hunting to track down a traditional May Day event. It seems that the Thomas Bewick Birthplace Museum at Cherryburn will be the place to be in Northumberland this May Day if you want to see maypole dancing and the crowning of a May Queen.

But remember: even a trip to the garden centre on bank holiday weekend can be a small nod to

the origins of the May Day celebrations. Acknowledge the wonder of creation in all the beautiful fronds and blooms, and maybe just stop for a moment to focus on all that we have in our life that is wondrous and precious, instead of complaining about all that we do not have.

And take consolation in the fact that May is a bounteous month for bank holidays at least, with another one just around the corner!

Joanne Major is owner of Major Family Law The Divorce and Family Law Specialists. t: 01661 824582 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk

wbcreative design&print

LEAFLETS, BROCHURES, PRESS ADS, POS & WEBSITES

www.wbcreative.co.uk email: art@wbcreative.co.uk or call: 07885 785710

Got design a brief?

Need a print qu ote?

Contact us now.

We will send you d a pri a design

idea an

nt quote We are . confide nt you will like both.

www.tynevalleyexpress.co.uk

61

Darras Hall & Ponteland Anyone for Tea!

Hello readers, Spring is in the air! Is it? I have to ask myself.

It certainly has been a long winter, and most of us now are in need of some half decent weather. Will we have a spring this year? It looks unlikely, as trees and plants are barely into bud. We’ve been munching on roots now for 6 months or more: carrots, turnips and potatoes – all those winter vegetables.

Yes, we can buy salad leaves most of the year round, but it’s somehow not the same eating salads in winter, is it? However, some of you might disagree, but let’s face it our bodies need all those carbohydrates at that time of year just to sustain our energy levels.

As we long for a bit of sunshine our thoughts drift off to dreams of holidays and warmer climes, of light healthy meals – crispy salads, fresh fruit and outdoor entertaining: a table set for tea; tea with cream scones and jam – now that sounds inviting. What better than having fresh home-made jam on a scone with a dollop of fresh cream, and by now a little bit of what you fancy doesn’t go amiss. See my recipe on the best of raspberry jam.

Usually a recipe for jam requires equal quantities of fruit to sugar, but for a full fruit flavour this recipe requires slightly more fruit.

Raspberry Jam 1.2 kg raspberries - look for raspberries that are not too overripe.

1 kg granulated sugar Juice of 2 lemons For this recipe you will need: jam jars, jam jar lids, jam funnel, ladle and wax seals.

Firstly, set the oven temperature to 220oc.

Place the raspberries, sugar and lemon juice in the pan and macerate (soak) for 2 hours.

This helps to draw out the juice from the raspberries and gives extra flavor to the jam.

Prepare the jars by soaking them in hot soapy water for fifteen minutes. Rinse and shake the excess water out of the jars, place on a baking tray and put in the oven for twenty minutes to sterilize. Do this just before you start cooking the raspberries, as you don’t want the jars to have cooled down completely before filling with the jam. Remove the jars from the oven approximately fifteen minutes prior to the jam being ready.

Once this is done place the pan on a low heat to dissolve the sugar, then slowly bring it to a boil and boil for ten minutes. A foam or scum will appear on the surface, skim this off with a

metal spoon. Test the jam after ten minutes by placing a teaspoon of jam on a plate, leave for five minutes. It is best to put the plate in the fridge beforehand, remove then test the jam. Do this by running your finger through the jam, a set is reached when the jam forms crinkles when pushed by your finger.

If it doesn’t, cook the jam for a further few minutes and do the test again. Fill the jars and seal.

Enjoy!

Eliza Pepperpot www.elizapepperpot.co.uk info@elizapepperpot.co.uk

62

For a

D E T I LIM IOD PER LY! ON

Full House of Blinds from £189

*

x... lu e V .. l. e n a P . .. ated n... Roman... Ple

etia n e V . .. r e ll o R . ..

We also supply

*The ‘Full House’ offer is for vertical blinds white/cream selected designs.

Blackout vertical blinds available for an additional £5 per blind.

Roller blinds can be included at an additional cost of £10 per blind or £15 for blackout fabric.

Price includes measuring and fitting with a 12 month guarantee Rooms included are lounge, dining room, kitchen, bathroom and 3 bedrooms.

Terms and conditions apply and are available on request.

A1blinds BLIND MANUFACTURERS

Unit 4/5, Tundry Way, Chainbridge Industrial Estate, Blaydon, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE21 5SJ

Telephone: 0191 499 0099 or email: info@a1blindsuk.co.uk Online sales are now available via our website:

www.a1blindsuk.co.uk

Offer exclusi ve to Tyne Valle y Express read ers.

Available production ofon advertisementhis t.

Kit c h e n s, B a t h r oom s & B edr oom s . . . a s p la s h of i n s pi rati on for you r h ome,

Due to the redevelopment at the Blaydon site Blueberry will be relocating to the Team Valley Jedburgh Cour t, Eleventh Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0BQ. (next to Sainsbur ys)

We will be taking with us the

SAME GREAT PRICES! THE SAME GREAT PRODUCTS! & THE SAME GREAT PEOPLE! Come along and see our BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS, BEDROOMS and ...

BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS

FROM START TO FINISH PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFER INCLUDES: ● INSTALLATION OF UPVC CEILING ● WALLS FULLY TILED ● FLOOR FULLY TILED ● CHOICE OF NEW BATHROOM SUITE TO INCLUDE: BATH + PANEL/NEW FROM BASIN/NEW TOILET/NEW TAPS NEW CHROME TOWEL RADIATOR ● ALL LABOUR & MATERIALS ● WE EVEN SUPPLY THE SKIP FULLY INSTALLED & TILED

£3,995

ASK ABOUT OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF ADD - ONS TO CREATE YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN, BATHROOM OR BEDROOM

*Offer based on a typical bathroom of 18m2 of wall tiles, 4m2 of floor tiles up to £20 per sq.m up to £700 new suite

FINANCE AVAILABLE

Jedburgh Court, Eleventh Avenue, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0BQ. (next to Sainsburys)

Tel: 0191 487 4650

www.blueberrykitchensandbathrooms.co.uk