Weardale Community News October 2020

SOMETHING FOR ALL SEASONS Workwear • Hardware • Farming • Shooting & Outdoor Clothing • Footwear • Animal feeds & More!

Tel: (01388) 527295 www.gardinersfarmandcountry.co.uk

Edition 5, September 2020

For regular news and updates find us online at: www.wcng.org

Wolsingham students celebrate exam success

Free in Weardale

Weardale Tractor Run

Vintage tractors going through St. John’s Chapel

Wolsingham students celebrating their GCSE results in August. Full story on page 9

Education During a Pandemic PARENTS are concerned for the safety of their children as they return to school in September.

Jonathan Ferstenberg, head teacher of Wolsingham School, writes for the Weardale Community News about how his school is prepared for the challenges that the new term will bring.

For many aspects of life, government guidance directs us to balance safety measures, like masks, hand sanitiser, or social distancing, against the needs of the particular context - for example the need to go food shopping, to visit the pharmacist or to see an elderly relative.

In schools, the need is to educate all children to the highest possible standard, while also promoting the well-

being of students and staff.

The government has therefore tailored its guidance to these needs.

Three key underlying themes in government guidance are crucial here: First, schools must offer an education to all students that is as close as possible to the curriculum delivered during normal times.

Second, all schools are limited financially – most schools cannot hire a set of extra teachers or a fleet of extra busses to enable them to teach different year groups throughout the day, for instance. Therefore, third, the government guidance cannot eliminate the possibility of cross contamination; it can only limit the opportunities for cross-contamination and limit the number of students who

THE Hamsterley Vintage Tractor Club road run took place on Sunday 23rd August, with 61 tractors taking part.

Photo credit to Paul Humphries

The route took the club from Hamsterley, over the top to Teesdale before heading back over to Weardale.

might be exposed to any child who does become ill.

Government guidance does recognise that every school is different, so I can only explain the health and safety measures Wolsingham School has put in place and which we used successfully to educate children of key workers and many of our Year 10 students throughout lockdown last term.

Measures at Wolsingham School: The measures below are a small taste of what we have put in place. A set of our plans, which were developed following consultation and feedback from staff, parents and Health and Safety authorities at Durham County Council, runs to over 20 pages. These can be found on our website, Continued on page 3

A message from Councillor Anita Savory

THIS month I have used some of the small grants budget to support a project at Crosshill Nursing Home in Stanhope.

The staff have been working very hard to create a Seaside Memories Day. There will be a seaside theme with bunting and a backdrop with seagulls on.

Seaside songs and fairground music will be played in the background. The funding will

pay for Fish and Chips from a local supplier for the residents to enjoy which will all add to the atmosphere of the event.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish all schoolchildren, either those starting or returning to school in September, good luck. The staff in all schools, teachers, support staff, caretakers, cleaners, and catering staff have been working extremely

hard and recognise the safety of the pupils is paramount whilst we still battle Covid-19.

Also, good luck to all the young people who are moving on to gain further qualifications at colleges and universities. In the meantime, we all have our part to play, do not become complacent, continue to follow the guidelines.

Take care and stay safe.

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Calling all residents of Wolsingham and Weardale

See the Dale with the Wayfarers

HAVE you recently discovered a love of walking? Do you value the many miles of local footpaths through Weardale?

Wolsingham Wayfarers (WW) is an established group of volunteers who have developed a high profile amongst visitors to the Dale who enjoy participating in our guided walks or using any of our walks leaflets.

Over the years the WW have worked hard to protect and enhance Rights of Way in the Parish. In other regions of the country and indeed even parts of Weardale, footpaths are often neglected, sparsely way marked and therefore under used so WW are frequently complimented on the work that they do here and the excellent quality of their walks leaflets.

Recently, WW have become part of the National ‘Walkers Are Welcome’ network which, even in these

One of Weardale’s miles of stiles

most difficult of times, has proven to be advantageous to the local hospitality sector by attracting visitors to walk and stay here.

Although WW generally has more than enough tasks to fulfil, it is currently engaged in a Durham County /WAAP initiative to audit and carry out repairs to enhance and promote the Weardale Way as a long distance walk from Killhope to Wearmouth. It is hoped that this will also encourage more visitors to the Dale and be of further benefit to local businesses.

WW is a registered charity with no income and no membership fees. It makes no charge for any of the services it provides. All funding for repairs, printing of walks leaflets and other overheads is sourced from the Local Authority or by application to charitable funds.

WW volunteers currently consist of Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary,

Farming Liaison Officer and Walks Leader. We work in a mutually respectful partnership with Durham County Council, Wolsingham Parish Council and the local farmers and landowners.

If you have read this far you will understand that there is a lot of work to do in respect of the care and maintenance of the local Rights of Way. Anyone who likes walking, appreciates the need for maintenance of footpaths and encouraging others to enjoy our wonderful Dale, would find being part of WW very satisfying.

To continue this work there is an urgent need for more volunteers who can bring fresh energy and ideas to the tasks.

Please join us and keep Wolsingham Walking.

For more information, please visit: wolsinghamwayfarers. co.uk, or contact us at: wolsinghamwayfarers@ gmail.com

Weardale Community News Acting Chairman: Jack Vincent - Jackvincent@wcng.org Layout and editing: Paul Turton - paul@wcng.org Publishing Coordinator: Heather Giles - heather@wcng.org To submit news and stories and to find out how you can contribute to the paper, please get in touch with us using the address newsdesk@wcng.org.

For advertising rates and details of how to advertise with us, please contact Heather Giles.

The Weardale Community News is produced in Stanhope by the Weardale Community News Group CIC. The registered address of the community interest company is: Weardale Community News Group, 2a St Mary’s Green, Whickham, NE16 4DN. Corrections and Clarifications We aim to ensure that articles published in the Weardale Community News are truthful and accurate, but in the event of an error we will correct or clarify any problems when they are brought to our attention.

The Weardale Community News abides by The Editors Code of Practice, which can be viewed in full at www.editorscode.org.uk. If you have a complaint of have found any inaccuracies in our reporting please contact us to let us know.

Submitted Content The Weardale Community News welcomes submissions from writers. The views expressed in those submissions do not represent the views of the paper or those of the WCNG CIC. We reserve the right to edit submissions. Letters must include a full postal address.

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B-lines: the insect travel network

Map showing the B-lines through Weardale

Image courtesty of Buglife

By Heather Giles AS much as we might complain about our public transport systems, travelling around the country would be considerably more difficult, if not impossible, without them. Unfortunately, for much of our wildlife, this is an actuality. As our climate and landscape continuously changes, certain species are unable to move throughout the countryside. If nothing is done to rectify this, it has been suggested that up to 70% of species could sadly become extinct.

In particular our bees, butterflies and hoverflies are suffering as a result of modern farming methods, urban development and

improved transport links.

Flower-rich grassland areas have dramatically decreased in the last century, meaning vital sources of pollen and nectar have declined; negatively impacting upon those species dependant on a wildflower-rich habitat.

B-Lines are a network of ‘insect pathways’ weaving through the British landscape, along which wildflower-rich habitats are simultaneously restored and created.

These link existing wildlife areas together, providing large areas of new habitat benefitting not only our bees and butterflies, but also other species too.

B-Lines aims to create and restore at least 150,000

hectares of flower-rich habitat across the country and have been mapped across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and large areas of Scotland.

The B-Lines in the north were mapped with help from local and national conservation partners and will be used by Buglife and their partners to prioritise conservation efforts for pollinators across this rich and varied landscape.

Everyone who lives, works, owns land or goes to school on a B-Line can help, even if only in a small way.

Are you on a B-Line?

Head over to www.buglife. org.uk to look at their map and find out how you can help our buzzy friends.

By Chris Powell WEARDALE WordFest has been described as ‘the best small, rural book festival in Co. Durham’ and we are still making plans for 2020.

WordFest was set up by NorthPens, a community writers’ group based in Stanhope, to celebrate books by local writers and writing about Weardale and the North East and this will be our third WordFest. You will know that many of the big book festivals have opted to move on-line for 2020; going completely on-line isn’t really an option for us, chiefly because WordFest has been built on such a strong community basis, and our intention is, as always, to keep it small and friendly, although it will feel a little different this year.

The main WordFest weekend will be 23-25 October, at St. Thomas Church Hall in Stanhope, but we hope to hold some workshops during the weeks before and after so that we can limit numbers but still

accommodate everyone and adhere to social distancing protocols. This means that although most talks and workshops will still be free, we will be need to ask people to book in advance.

Everything is taking longer to finalise and we have had to change our plans several times because of the Covid-19 situation. We are still awaiting concrete guidelines, but details of events will be posted on our website, www.northpens. com, as soon as possible.

We are going to have to scale down this year, but nonetheless hope to host a couple of our popular talks/ readings on the Saturday morning. NorthPens Writers are working on a creative writing/film project with film makers Lonely Tower, and will hold a grand premiere during WordFest; WideEyed photography’s Showstoppers pop-up exhibition will visit and we are also looking at ways of providing the immensely popular refreshments!

One of the things that we won’t be able to run in quite the same way is our very successful bookstall.

So, as the WordFest is all about local authors we are proposing do it a little differently. The idea is to hold a Weardale Authors Showcase during the weekend. Local writers will each be able set out their own stall around the hall to sell books and talk to people who call in on a drop-in basis. We hope by doing this to recreate some of the buzz of the bookstall!

If you are a Weardale author and would like to take part please get in touch with us northpens15@gmail.com we’d love to hear from you!

We are all becoming used to dealing with uncertainty and of course, the situation might change between now and the end of October.

However, we remain positive, we are planning for the third Weardale WordFest to go ahead, in some form, and look forward to seeing you there.

Weardale Wordfest hopes to take place in October

Follow us online and on Facebook

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Wolsingham plant stall brings welcome colour to lockdown

Chris Raymond and Karen Rogers with their plant stall

By Chris Raymond OVER the spring and summer, gardeners in Wolsingham have been taking advantage of a plant stall which has popped up at the end of Mill Race.

Started originally as a means of giving away surplus plant pots, the stall now has pots, labels and different types of plants.

Many of the plants were grown to be sold at the Summer Fairs of two local schools, Wolsingham Primary and Crook Hartside Primary.

However, as the spring progressed, it became clear that these

fairs would not take place and the plants would die if they did not go to new homes.

In the early weeks, kind gardeners left notes to say thank you for the plants and pots, and some even left donations, so the ladies wondered if their enterprise could raise a little bit of money which could be given to the two schools, to be used for the benefit of the children.

They have been touched and delighted by the generosity of everyone who has since supported the stall. Some local gardeners

make a regular weekly visit, to see what is newly available. Many plants have also found new homes with people here on holiday.

At the time of writing, the ladies will be able to donate at least £80 to each school.

“We never imagined that people would be so kind and generous,” said Chris and Karen. “We have met lots of people for a chat about the plants and their gardens, and we hope to continue into the Autumn.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us.

Your kindness is much appreciated.”

Looking after the local environment

By Richard Holden, MP THE global coronavirus pandemic has reinforced the need for all of us to look after our local environment and be responsible in the green spaces we are all so lucky to enjoy, as we have seen both national and international travel restrictions and quarantines put in place for those who do travel abroad.

What became clear to me as lockdown eased was the huge amount of litter being dumped in our community.

That’s why I started my lockdown litter pick, which has proven to be enormously successful – we’ve been allover North-West Durham raising awareness of the issue as well as collecting it.

In tandem with this and as part of my overall campaign to keep North West Durham’s environment protected and clean, I recently visited Bollihope Common to meet local farmers and a representative from Farm Watcher UK, the UK’s biggest rural crime alert network that works with farmers, landowners and those living in rural areas to raise awareness of rural crime and help prevent it.

Sheep worrying has

Education during a pandemic Continued from front page which also includes links to the applicable government guidance.

Transport: Students are encouraged to walk to school or come by their own car.

Like many schools, our students wear masks on the bus and are directed to sit in designated year group spaces.

Movement within school: Movement within the school follows a one-way system.

As students and staff enter and leave the building they wash or sanitise their hands.

Year groups have designated indoor and outdoor areas for eating and breaks.

Year group “bubbles”: Each year group has its own entrance door and, like many schools, its own designated area (or “bubble”) of the school where almost all of its classes are held. If a case of Covid-19 occurs in school, we will contact Public Health England (PHE) who will tell us how to respond; because students are in year group “bubbles”, PHE is more likely to limit any isolation measures

to other students in a class group or year group bubble.

Classrooms: Furniture has been rearranged so no two students face each other.

Non-necessary materials that students might touch have been removed. Hand sanitisers, antibacterial wipes, tissues and pedal bins can be found in every classroom.

Cleaning: Cleaning rotas have been changed so that cleaning occurs throughout the day, especially on commonly touched surfaces and toilets. Each year group has designated toilets. Our storeroom is full of Covid-safe cleaning supplies.

First Aid: First Aid staff have all been trained in looking for symptoms of Covid-19. They wear full PPE when working with students and follow protocols for safe working practices and cleaning the medical room rigorously.

Students with symptoms are immediately put into a designated clean room while we make arrangements to get them safely home.

Remote teaching: If we re-

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enter lockdown, lesson delivery must be as close as possible to normal. We have produced sufficient IT supplies to facilitate remote or ‘live’ lessons via the Internet and staff have already practised doing this.

However, because of the safeguarding requirements, remote live lessons cannot include audio or video of any student. We have engaged with a government scheme to acquire laptops for Year 11 students who cannot afford them and have even delivered paper copies of lessons to those without IT access.

I hope this gives readers a flavour of what is involved in running a school in times like these. When I consider what we have put in place so far, I am not only grateful for the thoughtful contributions of staff and parents to these plans.

I am also rather in awe of the remarkable maturity of our students and the absolute commitment to their wellbeing which lies at the heart of all my staff.

Richard and volunteers litter picking in Bollihope

become more prevalent as has intimidation of farmers – from irresponsible dog owners allowing their dogs to chase and kill sheep, to small gangs of men turning up and threatening local people. This has a hugely detrimental effect, both financially and more generally, on farmers or those who own sheep and livestock. It’s really disgusting that people let their out-of-control dogs chase and kill livestock and there is clearly an element of organised crime in some of what has been going on.

I regularly meet local farmers as well as the police

to discuss the local and rural crime we see in North West Durham, and I will continue to work with them to tackle rural crime and to ensure that everyone respects and looks after the green areas of our community.

We are fortunate that we have so much beautiful farm and moorland in North West Durham, and that there is so much to see and do here, but people must be careful to not let us staying at home and enjoying our rural areas have negative outcomes for our local environment, our local community and the livelihoods of local people.

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Daisy Chain florist celebrates seven years of trading

One of Emm’s creations

By Heather Giles WE have all had to think creatively about how we can maintain our social lives during lockdown, and even as restrictions are being eased, businesses are also having to re-think how they can continue to trade within ‘the new normal.’

Daisy Chain Florist, which is celebrating seven years of trading in September, is no exception. Emm embarked upon a new chapter before the pandemic even took hold when she relocated her business from Stanhope to her home in Frosterley.

Whilst Emm is hoping to return to Stanhope longer term, she is currently carrying out socially distanced wedding and funeral consultations and is more than happy for you to come and browse her selection of beautiful fresh

flowers and choose your own bouquet; but please phone ahead to ensure she is at home!

Thankfully, not only have her local customers proven to be loyal and supportive, but customers from further afield who have been unable to visit their families during lockdown have phoned to order flowers for their loved ones, adding very moving messages.

However, in the early weeks of lockdown, despite receiving many calls asking for flowers to be delivered, Emm was unable to help as her regular supplier of twelve years was closed, and have to date not reopened.

She thankfully sourced another supplier in early May that allowed her to continue trading in a very different way; delivering flowers safely in boxed

bouquets and aqua packs to the doorstep of their lucky recipients.

This caused Emm to think about how she could continue supporting the students who attend Flower School as most are selfisolating. The ladies usually travel to Wolsingham from within Weardale and the surrounding areas of Spennymoor, Willington and Crook once a month, to design and arrange beautiful seasonal arrangements, but are currently unable to leave their homes.

Rather than going to Flower School, it now comes to them in the form of a socially distanced delivery of a kit; containing flowers, foliage, foam and photographs of what their finished creations should look like. Creating and delivering the kits provides Emm and her students the social platform to continue sharing their mutual love of flowers and deliver a little happiness in these uncertain times.

Find Daisy Chain on Facebook, or contact Emm on 01388 529188

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The Foodie Book Club launches in Weardale

THE 2019 Masterchef champion, Irini Tzortzoglou is the face and brand ambassador of a new social concept in Weardale, ‘Foodie Book Club.’

Founded by Lee MajhenTodd, owner of Lee & The Sweet Life, the new concept fuses the traditional book club with a cooking and community focus and aims to encourage people to cook for fun, whilst providing a support structure through the Foodie Book Club groups.

Irini, whose new book ‘Under the Olive Tree: Recipes from my Greek Kitchen’ launched earlier this month, represents the Foodie Book Club, and has been sharing her recipes and experience and offering support to the members of groups which are as far apart as North Yorkshire, Dublin and Malta.

Irini said: “I love this concept, bringing together reading and cooking but also encouraging greater communication and a creative flair, something I think is really important given what our nation and indeed the world has been going through in recent months.

“I’m delighted to be part of this and can’t wait to see what the members of different Foodie Book Club groups come up with as their monthly pot luck dishes!”

Foodie Book Club works by Lee Majhen-Todd assigning a book each month via the website which has a type of food in the title. Groups read the book, create a dish inspired by the title and then meet, face to face or via Zoom or other virtual system, on the last Monday of the month or week of to enjoy their dishes and discuss the book.

Lee explained: “The books

are really varied; I want to cater for all manner of tastes but also challenge some people to explore outside of the genres they usually stick to.

We’re selecting new authors, established ones, some people may never have heard of, we may even Irini Tzortzoglou throw in a few children’s books, too – of and groups can get by registering really celebrating the joy of started at leeandthesweetlife. reading and cooking.

“It makes for great c o m / fo o d i e - b o o k- c l u b . conversation and brings in Group organisers are sent the traditional element of branded bookmarks for people gathering to feast their members and there together, a real social and is a wealth of support for community event that the groups including a builds relationships and private Facebook group, the community Facebook strengthens them.”

What’s more, the and Twitter pages and also Foodie Book Club is being a Twitter hour. #FoodieBookClubHour championed by a number which runs every of outstanding chefs and Wednesday, 6 – 7pm authors, too.

Augusts read is the GMT and is sponsored by businesses highly acclaimed book independent each week, offering an ‘Julia’s Chocolates’ by exclusive 10 per cent Cathy Lamb, with recipe on the website by food writer discount to participants.

The Twitter hour, 2016 MasterChef winner # F o o d i e B o o k C l u b H our Jane Devonshire, sharing which runs every an amazing gluten free Wednesday, 6 – 7pm chocolate recipe.

Others include Jenny GMT and is sponsored by businesses Linford, and chefs Oliver independent each week, offering an Certain, Tony Parkin, Tony Rodd, Mark Reid, Michelin- exclusive 10 per cent starred Hrishikesh Desai – a discount to participants Lee is looking for more Roux scholar with a string book club groups who want of awards under his belt and Samira Effa, the latter to start their own Foodie two of whom competed Book Club and become part in the Great British Menu of the Foodie Book Club Family. Find out how, on the 2020.

Local chef Kenny Lee & The Sweet Life website Atkinson is also supporting www.leeandthesweetlife.

Foodie Book Club with com, click on the Foodie so many more amazing Book Club pages and follow chefs providing recipes for the instructions. It’s easy Foodie Book Club over the and fun.

For more details Email coming months. lee at: leeandthesweetlife@ Foodie Book Club is entirely free to be part gmail.com

Believe Housing community funding £500 grant

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delivery* in Weardale (*subject to minimum spend)

BELIEVE Housing’s community grant fund supports projects that help tackle issues around the coronavirus crisis as well as projects set up to support with the recovery phase.

The fund is open to applications from projects within the areas believe housing operates in County Durham, that are tackling isolation and financial

hardship or that help people get active outside of their homes and back to normal activities within their community.

All projects must be delivered safely in line with the current Government guidelines.

Grants of up to £500 will be available for community groups, schools or community organisations

to help support the people in our communities at this time. For your project to be considered it must be due to start soon or within a few weeks of applying.

We invite applications that provide help around the key areas of: • Feeding people in the community • Reducing isolation and keeping people connected

• Activities within the community We have a simple application process and a quick approval system allowing us to approve grant requests quickly. To find out more visit: www.believehousing.co.uk/ in-your-neighbourhood/ believe-housingcommunity-grants/500_ fund/

Have a story to share? Email us at newsdesk@wcng.org

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Page 5

Family camping after lockdown

By Heather Giles I’M the first to admit that lockdown has turned me into a bit of a hermit. I’ve always been a home-bird, happy in my own company, but have never before felt anxious at the prospect of leaving home.

However, campsites reopened just in time for our annual long weekend away under canvas for my husband’s birthday, and so our preparations began.

We decided not to travel too far from home, as it somehow felt safer,

and booked our pitch at Leekworth Camping & Caravan Park in Middletonin-Teesdale.

We were asked to complete a Track and Trace form before our arrival and were advised of the extra safety precautions put in place, which helped to make me feel more at ease. After all - camping in the great outdoors seemed like the safest option for holidaying during a pandemic.

We were given a hearty welcome by our host, Robin, and reminded of the

Beckstones Wath footbridge over the River Tees

Covid-19 rules that we’d received in an email prior to our break: toilet facilities were only available to those without their own and were closed for deep cleaning 3 times a day. Hand sanitisers were positioned outside each block for use before and afterwards, and a maximum of 4 people were allowed inside the facilities at any one time.

Masks were to be worn inside the on site shop and the communal washing up facility was not in use.

Social distancing was to be maintained at all times.

We set up camp and surveyed our temporary home. We were surrounded by lush green hills on the bank of the river Tees and 1 of 4 tents in our field.

For the first time ever on a camping trip, the sun was shining (we’re more used to rain and gale force winds!) and most importantly our children were free after being cooped up for months.

I felt the tension of the past few months dissipate and immersed myself in the healing atmosphere that nature provided us with for 3 glorious nights. There is something soothing about getting back to basics; I

was no longer obsessively refreshing the news app on my phone searching for Covid-19 related headlines nor was I having to constantly entertain the children, who were more than happy to run around the field in bare feet and throw stones in the river.

We awoke to clear blue skies and blazing hot sunshine early the following morning and decided to stretch our legs along the Teesdale Way, which runs directly through the campsite, surely avoiding the majority of fellow ‘tourists’. We began following the undulating footpath next to the river, before it widened into open meadows complete with grazing sheep. We eventually crossed the river into Mickleton, before joining the railway path back to our campsite, which had gotten busier in our absence.

We hadn’t seen another (human) soul during our 10k amble, until we’d reached the railway path, so it was a bit of shock to see our fairly private camping field now almost full. Thankfully, the individual pitches are marked out and we had a corner plot, so only had

ADVANCE LEARNING PARTNERSHIP

George and Albert fishing in the River Tees

neighbouring tents to one side. It was clear that we all had the same objective – to escape the reality of living through a pandemic and enjoy the simple things once again.

The vibrant sunset that evening was followed by menacing clouds and blustery winds, yet the heat was still stifling. Suddenly, a fork of lightening crackled across the sky followed by a deep grumble of thunder – epic. We dashed around, packing up perishables and dismantling the gazebo, preparing for the impending storm. The wind stilled;

another flash of lightening and eventually a deafening roar of thunder. Yet the storm never materialised.

After a final flash, the skies cleared and calmness was restored once more.

This instilled a new hope within; the Covid ‘storm,’ despite its apparent increasing transmission and mortality around the world, will eventually be pacified.

All we can do, is ride it out, in the best possible way. What better way than sleeping under the stars, with the burble of the river and hooting of the owls?

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Your Photographs Send your photos to newsdesk@wcng.org

There are many talented photographers in the area, both professional and amateur and we aim to provide the Weardale Community News as a showcase for their excellent work. If you have a picture you’d like to see in the paper, please email us.

Whitfield Brow by David Grey

Rachel Pearson Payne caught this beetle about to take flight

A double rainbow over Hill End, by Michael Henderson

Lime Hawk moths in Eileen Lovell’s garden

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Sunset over Bollihope by Andrew Collinson

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Weardale Community News, September 2020

Eastgte Village hall to host ‘Northumbrians’ author, Dan Jackson

Dan Jackson and his book, The Northumbrians

EASTGATE Village Hall Association are absolutely delighted to announce that author and historian Dr Dan Jackson will be coming to the village hall on Friday 22nd January to give a talk on his best-selling book 'The Northumbrians: North East England and its People: A New History'.

The book, which romps through the history of the North East from Bede to Geordie Shore was named by the Sunday Times as one of its history books of the year. The paper said "He [Dan Jackson] writes with equal enthusiasm about Bede and St Cuthbert, the wars against the Scots and Stephenson’s Rocket, coal miners and Catherine

Cookson, capturing the distinctive flavour of Northumbria, a land that predates England itself.

"The North East he argues, has always been a world apart, with its own history, dialect, habits and traditions.

Above all, he celebrates the people themselves, 'so magnetic, so passionate, so canny' — a description that perfectly captures the spirit of this hugely impressive book.

Tickets are £12.50 which includes a welcome drink. Dr Jackson will be selling signed of his book.

Will Wearmouth, from the village hall committee, said "We try to put on an interesting and varied programme and with our

beer festival cancelled due to Covid this year, we really hope we can start 2021 with a book talk.

The event will only go ahead if we are well clear of Covid restrictions so that people feel safe and comfortable. 'The Northumbrians' has quickly established itself as required reading for anybody with an interest in the history of the North East and it promises to be an entertaining and informative night."

The event is likely to sell out so people should register their interest by leaving a message with the village hall on Facebook or contacting Mr Wearmouth directly on 078428955068.

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Help with A Prickly Problem

READER Kay Gittins got in touch with us to tell us about the work of A Prickly Problem and their team of hedgehog rehabilitators.

A Prickly Problem Hedgehog rescue was set up to help injured hedgehogs in County Durham. There are five rehabilitators, Jill, Dawn, Jude, Sandra and Hazel as well as several foster carers, all helping to give rescued hedgehogs the best possible chance of survival.

A Prickly Problem have been working hard through the Covid-19 lockdown to provide support and advice to people and, as a result of the recent dry weather, taking a large number of injured hedgehogs into their care.

Kay told the Weardale Community News how A Prickly Problem helped with a sick hedgehog that she recently found in Stanhope.

The hedgehog was found outside during the day and was lethargic and underweight. Kay contacted Jude, who lives near Crook, and left the hedgehog in her care.

When the team receives a new hedgehog, the finder is invited to name it and can follow its progress on A Prickly Problem’s Facebook page. Kay named her

One of the hedgehogs rescued by A Prickly Problem

foundling hedgehog Aretha.

In the care of Jude, Aretha the hedgehog was given fluids, antibiotics and decongestant and received lungworm treatment due to her breathing pattern.

Through the care of A Prickly Problem, Aretha the hedgehog recovered and was able to be released back into the wild.

A Prickly Problem aims to return hedgehogs to where they were found. There is also a special release site for injured hedgehogs where they can live as wild

animals in a four-and-ahalf-acre secure plot. Any young hogs produced on this plot will be released back out into the wild.

The team at A Prickly Problem are self-funded and reliant on donations of food, newspapers for bedding and cash donations.

To support the team, donations can given via www.paypal.me/ APricklyProblem.

If you find an injured hedgehog, the team can be contacted via their Facebook page.

In The Market Town of Wolsingham, The Gateway To Picturesque Weardale, With It’s Breathtaking Scenery

Please welcome Weardale’s new sergeant!

All year round access

VISIT THE PARK TO VIEW OUR FABULOUS NEW BARNWELL SHOW LODGE Sergeant Angela Drasdo on the border between Weardale and Teesdale

SERGEANT Angela Drasdo joined the team in July and is already getting to know her new patch.

Sgt Drasdo joined the force in 2002 and spent 3 years serving in the criminal justice unit and the last 16 years as a response officer in Darlington. She has taken over from Sgt Simon Rogers, who has recently retired.

Speaking about her new role she said “Rural policing is completely different to what I’ve experienced in response, but I love the countryside and making a difference to the people I meet.

“I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and encourage any residents to come and say hello.”

Sgt Drasdo is believed to be Teesdale and Weardale’s first female sergeant on the neighbourhood team.

Inspector Ed Turner said: “I am delighted to welcome Angela to the team and know her wealth of knowledge and experience in policing will be invaluable in helping residents in the Dales.”

Come & have a talk to us, we can help you create the holiday lodge of your dreams, what ever size you prefer, what ever lay-out you would like, the choice is entirely yours. You can even tell us which plot you would like.

Here are just some of the things we include: 12 MONTH LICENCE DOUBLE DRIVEWAY | SECURITY GATES GROUNDS MAINTAINED BY DENESIDE DECKING TO FRONT & SIDE ALL IN A FABULOUS LOCATION

CALL US TODAY on 07514 403030 www.deneside-lodges.com | enquries to parkmanagerds@outlook.com Deneside Lodge Park, Wolsingham, County Durham, DL13-3BL

Page 8

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Weardale Tuesday Walks PUBLIC walks of up to 30 people are now permitted with social distancing. Our next two walks are: Tuesday 1st September This walk from Rookhope Village Hall car park is one of Weardale’s unknown gems.

It runs down the valley at mid fell level, returning on the Weardale Way. Finishing along Front Street where we will compare the present street with old photos. 5.25 miles, 500 feet of ascent.

10.00am to 1.00pm.

Tuesday 15th September.

This is an easy and interesting walk from the far side of the stepping stones in Stanhope to Frosterley along the Weardale Way, with part of the return

on one of Weardale’s fine back roads. For the start drive from the west end of Stanhope along the B6278 south for 800 yards to the stepping stones and the parking is on the left. 4.0 miles, 250 feet of ascent.

10.00am to 12.00pm.

Full details of these and other local guided walks are on our website www. weardale.uk.

Everyone walks at their own risk.

Walks cost £1 to cover costs. Walks are subject to cancellation or change due to bad weather etc so check the website on the morning of the walk from 8.00am, before travelling.

All enquiries to Alan on 01388 517522.

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS, BARROW BAGS & DUMPY BAGS available from:

WARD TIMBER Ltd. Rogerley Sawmill, Frosterley

Tel: 01388 528362

Email: sales@wardtimber.co.uk (Collection only)

01388 526522

07900 680202

Electrical Solar PV Battery Storage EV Charging www.nzeco.co.uk

enquiries@nzeco.co.uk

www.wcng.org

Trades4Care summer projects: making a real difference THE Trades4Care Project, a local, not for profit social enterprise have just completed another successful summer project, on this occasion for Bishopton Primary School.

Trades4Care supported another eight students from Bishop Auckland College with vital life skills, practical training, motivational sessions and logistical support.

Michelle Andelin from Bishop Auckland College said, “The students were all keen to be part of the Trades4Care programme which demonstrates their full commitment to learning and being ready for the next stage of their development in September.”

The directors and cofounders of Trades4Care are Charlie Wright and Andrew Coxon. Andrew said, “It is really important to remain positive and find creative ways of learning to inspire our young people during these challenging times.”

Charlie said, “The young people have missed so much college time recently, it has affected their confidence, mental health and skills development. We are all determined to continue to ‘make a difference’ and provide further creative growth and development opportunities throughout the period of Covid recovery.”

Andrew continued, “The students have completed a two-day motivational induction including site tour, client visit, introduction to trades people followed by four weeks of practical coaching, mentoring, training and creative

The Trades4Care team who worked on Bishopton Primary School

learning support’.

The Trades4Care team prepared and decorated classrooms, toilets and corridors throughout the school. They also built some cupboard doors and fitted new toilets. To the exterior of the building School gates were painted and fences repaired whilst PVC fascia, guttering and the school shed were thoroughly cleaned .

Mrs Skirving, the Head Teacher of Bishopton Primary School, commented after the work had been completed, “We have had Trades4Care programme tradespeople and students working in our school for the past four weeks. They have been well mannered, hardworking and worked safely.

“The work they have carried out under supervision and guidance has been of a very high quality, great value for money and we will

definitely be using their unique services again.

“They have continued to ensure that all Covid guidance has been followed to education standards and all measures put in place by us and Trades4care have helped educate the students on living and working safely at all times.”

Andrew Coxon, the project lead advised, “The students involved showed great enthusiasm to be involved with us on this project yet again and followed all guidance.

The job as always was professional and is a credit to everyone.”

He continued, “What we offer is completely unique in that we are not a training provider or a construction company, we are an enabler between the client the organisation the student the family and the local community venue.

“Our approach is person centred and holistic we

price fairly are not numbers driven and as a result the support and guidance we provide for young people cannot be matched.

“The next step is to continue to widen our offer of support and ensure Trades4Care remains a viable local long termsolution.

“Social values remain at the heart of everything we do. Trades4Care Project is hopeful to continue their great working relationships locally with colleges, organisations, the local community, and young T4C programme graduates. “ The funding received early from their supporters The Gaunless Gateway Big Local Partnership has been instrumental in helping them to get the show on the road! For further information see www. trades4care.co.uk or find them on Facebook and twitter.

Don’t worry if the internet is not an option for you, there will be ample opportunity to book appointments by phone nearer the time.

The Coronavirus Pandemic is not yet over, no one can accurately predict if or when a second wave of infection is likely. In order to help us all to protect the more vulnerable people in our communities the GPs would urge anyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a free flu vaccination this year.

Having the flu vaccination won’t prevent you getting flu, but it can prevent a more serious infection.

Having the flu vaccination won’t prevent you getting Coronavirus, but it can greatly reduce the risk of complications for vulnerable patients who contract both infections.

Help us protect our vulnerable patients and the NHS this winter, please take up the offer of a flu vaccination this year if you are eligible.

Flu vaccinations for eligible groups

UNIT 2E WOLSINGHAM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE WOLSINGHAM DL13 3JW

IF you fall into the eligible age or risk groups it is more important than ever to get your free NHS flu vaccination this year.

The Practice expects to receive vaccines for our over 65 year olds on the 14th September. Our under 65 year old ‘at risk’ vaccines will arrive in practice throughout October.

Press articles and the media have widely reported that 50-64 year olds will also be vaccinated this year, however GP practices have been told by NHS England that they should not yet be inviting any patients in the 50 - 64 year old age group for their flu vaccine unless

they are in an ‘at risk’ group.

We will be informed when the vaccine supply for the healthy 50-64 year old group is available and the practice will open up bookings at that time. We expect this to be November or December.

The practice currently has some early bird appointment slots available for the over 65’s. These slots are currently available online only. If you are not yet registered for online services, please contact the practice on 01388 528555 to arrange this. If you don’t have access to the internet you can give proxy access to a trusted relative or friend.

www.wcng.org

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Wolsingham School Students Celebrate in style

Page 9

Gardening competition winner announced!

Keira Kerse (second from right) celebrating with her friends

Clare O’Sullivan’s winning garden in Eastgate

Joe Tomlinson and some of his friends WOLSINGHAM School staff and students celebrated GCSE results day in style, with a special outdoor brunch to mark an excellent set of results.

Jack Cassidy, whose grades included three grade 9’s, two grade 8’s and two grade 7’s, looked up from his results, smiled and simply said, “I’m relieved and happy.” Keira Kerse, who achieved four grade 9’s, four grade 8’s and a grade 7, echoed these sentiments.

Like many of her peers who are proceeding to local colleges or apprenticeships, she is looking forward to Sixth Form.

“I am especially proud of

our students because they did well across the whole range of subjects,” said Jonathan Ferstenberg, the School’s Head Teacher. “The early data on pupil progress indicates that our students have once again exceeded national averages, with over 70% passing English and Maths.”

Students spoke warmly of the support they have received at the school. Joe Tomlinson whose grades included one grade 8 and three grade 7’s says he loved his time there: “I’ve had a very good experience during my five years at Wolsingham School. I’d like to say a massive thank you to the

Would you pass?

WEARDALE Community News Volunteer, JaJa Nakarak, is often seen around the upper Dale delivering your free newspaper.

As a Thai National, JaJa is required to sit her 'Life in the UK' test next week and has been asking other volunteers to help her study. Here are just a few of the sample questions for her test: 1. Which two languages combined to become one Engligh Language?

2. When were the first coins in Britain first made?

3. Who built the Tower of

London?

4. How did Charles II manage to escape to Europe after his defeat in the Civil War? 5.

Was Queen Elizabeth I a protestant or catholic?

6. How many members does the Welsh Assembly have?

7. In 1766, which British Colonies declared their independence because they demanded that there should be no taxation without representation?

8. When was England ruled by a republic and not a monarch?

Answers on back page.

Good luck JaJa!

school and the community.”

Mia Aston also had some kind words about her own fantastic results: “I’m really thankful to school and how much they’ve helped me.

I couldn’t have asked for better teachers.”

Much of the morning’s celebration was held outside. “Because of the pandemic, the students never had the prom they deserved,” said Mr Ferstenberg, “so we decided to decorate the school and mark these special results with a socially distanced, outdoor buffet, so students and staff could say proper farewells and get the nice memories they deserve.”

IN the very first edition of the Weardale Community News, when we were all very much locked down, we launched the F.W. Dunford Best Home Garden competition to find the best local garden in Weardale.

After a busy Summer and some rather mixed weather, it’s time to announce that the winner is Clare O’Sullivan from Eastgate.

Congratulations!

Clare wrote a short piece about her garden for us: My husband and I moved to Eastgate seven years ago after spending all of our lives in North London.

We have found Weardale quite wonderful: kindly, hospitable people (we’re “incomers” not “outsiders”) and a landscape that takes the breath away.

Lockdown and shielding meant that we could no longer look after our granddaughters in Newcastle four days a week so we spent all our time in Eastgate. I have always loved

gardening but earlier in my life bringing up a family and my job as a teacher limited the time that I could devote to it.

Fine weather in March and April encouraged me to get up at first light to work on the garden which I divided into seven sections, a section for each day of the week. So, two hours outside before breakfast became the routine. Then, more gardening in the afternoon and evening. Somehow the problems facing us all became more manageable when I was tending the plants.

Our next-door neighbours, Steph and Dave Smart, were convinced that I should enter the WCNG Gardening Competition so without their insistent belief I would not have put

my name down. They, too, have a beautiful garden and, like ours, it is the creation of Margaret Gibbons who lived in both houses in her years at Eastgate.

Her vision and imagination inspired me to develop her ideas. My son-in-law keeps the large beech tree honest each year and my husband cuts the lawns, but other than that it is left to me to experiment, to take and transplant cuttings to my heart’s content, to straighten out what the strong winds have bent and to think of ways to outmanoeuvre the opportunistic rabbits that devour so many young shoots. I enjoy every moment I am outside, accompanied by the Rookhope Burn.

Stanhope Parish Council Grant Money Available, April 2021

Are there any groups or organisations who need help with funding due to not being able to hold fund-raising events this year?

Please apply before 31st October 2020, stating the desired amount, an explanation as to how the money will be spent, together with a summary of your organisation’s history and activities.

9th 10th & 11th October From 9 am – 6 pm

Grants awarded will be discretionary. Applicants will be notified early in 2021 with payment where successful in April 2021.

Susan Anderson, Clerk, Shieldhurst, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, DL13 2EY Email: stanhopepc@btinternet.com

The F.W. Dunford Gardening Competition, sponsored by Gardiners Farm and Country

Page 10

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Letters

www.wcng.org

Wear Rivers Trust working in Weardale

Future of Wolsingham Consitutional Club under discussion THE 2020 AGM for Wolsingham Constitutional Club (CIU) was scheduled to take place on Sunday 2nd August.

The AGM included a proposal on the agenda to withdraw the club from the CIU and form a Community Interest Company (CIC) which would be a limited company controlled by appointed directors.

The meeting was called despite the club being closed, reducing the number of people likely to view the notice and, at a time when others would feel uncomfortable in attending a meeting due to the ongoing threat from Covid-19.

Had this meeting proceeded it was possible that the proposal to withdraw from the CIU could have been agreed and implemented on the back of a small number of votes, denying club members of their rights. I believe that ALL members need to be informed in writing regarding this proposal and given a right to decide the future of the club for themselves; the meeting was rightly cancelled until further notice The club and its assets are currently owned by the

members. If the club leaves the CIU and becomes a CIC all assets, including the building, will be taken from the members and transferred to a limited company controlled by the directors appointed to run that company.

The club is in financial trouble, whether this is due to market forces, poor management or members (which was suggested by the Chairperson at the opening of the last two AGMs) is a discussion for another time. The question is, how will the financial situation improve as a CIC? If, and hopefully this can be avoided, the club eventually fails, the current members will have no right to any remaining assets if it is a CIC as opposed to a CIU. Should the assets be disposed of the directors will have the right to decide who will receive the relevant funds resulting from any such disposal.

This is a very important issue and I would advise all members to consider the proposal to leave the CIU seriously and ensure that, whatever you decide, you have your say.

David Stephenson

Names and addresses should be included with all letters.

Whilst we can withhold names and addresses, we are unable to publish anonymous letters. We may edit letters where necessary. Letters reflect the opinions of contributors and are not those of the WCNG CIC.

A willow peg revetment built as part of Cool Waters with the help of Bishop Auckland District Angling Club

Himalayan Balsam during its flowering phase

By Rebekah Bainbridge THE Wear Rivers Trust (WRT) is your local branch of the national Rivers Trust movement, dedicated to conserving and improving the landscape and watercourses of the whole River Wear catchment.

Many projects aimed at achieving these goals are currently active across the area, a number of which are being implemented in Weardale.

Wear Invasive Non-Natives Species (WINNS) The WINNS project aims to manage invasive species throughout the catchment.

These are species which are not naturally found in this country and which have detrimental impacts once introduced. This project focuses on Himalayan Balsam, Japanese Knotweed and Giant Hogweed as these species can quickly dominate an area, wreaking havoc on native species and leading to riverbank erosion.

Additionally, Giant Hogweed causes severe burns to anyone who comes into contact with its toxic sap. Management of these species is achieved with the help of an invaluable team of volunteers who have assisted in mapping distributions and carrying out a targeted treatment programme.

Another invasive species to be on the lookout for in Weardale is the Signal Crayfish. This species is slowly making its way up the Wear but has not yet been reported in the dale.

These, and many other invasive species, can be transferred to new locations by people. DEFRA recommends several simple steps we can take to reduce the chances of that happening: •CHECK all clothing, footwear, equipment etc for mud, plant material, or

becomes unstable due to age and more frequent high rainfall events.

This is part of the Water & Abandoned Metal Mines Programme funded by Defra. The Trust has worked with local contractor Simon Makepeace at Cambokeels and will be working to stabilise riverbanks in the Killhope and Middlehope catchments later in the summer. Recommendations will be made for sites needing similar action in the Rookhope Valley.

Carbon Connects This is a European Union project for which the North Pennines AONB Partnership are the project lead. As eroding peat is a major source of carbon emissions, this project focuses on restoring our incredible peatlands to a condition in which they are able to store carbon once again.

This will allow these areas to become part of the solution to climate change, rather than contributing to the problem, as well as improving the biodiversity value of these important habitats. WRT’s role in this is to develop new methods of supplying the sphagnum moss which is vital to the restoration process.

This moss can be transplanted into bare peat in small clumps which will then recolonise the area, restoring the peat to a healthy, functioning status. The project aims to work with farmers to explore possible alternative income streams associated with upland and peatland management.

Natural Flood Management WRT is supporting the North Pennines AONB Partnership in the Weardale Natural Flood Management Demonstrator project, led by the Environment Agency.

This project involves working with landowners

small aquatic animals or eggs before leaving the site.

Remove anything that is found.

•CLEAN everything thoroughly (in hot water if possible), especially damp or hard to reach areas.

•DRY everything for as long as possible before taking it to a new site, bearing in mind certain species can survive for two weeks in damp conditions.

For more information on Check, Clean, Dry visit www.nonnativespecies.org/ checkcleandry/ Cool Waters The Cool Waters project is carried out in collaboration with the Woodland Trust and is aimed at protecting our rivers against the warmer temperatures associated with climate change. This involves planting native trees in targeted areas along watercourses to provide vital shade and create habitat opportunities.

This maintains suitable conditions for our important cold-water fish species, such as Brown Trout, while also providing bank stabilisation as the trees take root, leading to less riverbank erosion. This will be beneficial for both landowners and river water quality. At present, two pilot sites have been planted with the help of volunteers and Bishop Auckland District Angling Club, and plans are in place to plant many more trees in priority areas over the next three years.

This will have long-lasting effects which will help the River Wear adapt to the consequences of climate change.

Controlling River Pollution

by Lead Mine Sediments WRT is working with the Coal Authority and Environment Agency to reduce pollution caused by mine wastes being washed into streams as old mining infrastructure

to implement a variety of features which are designed to slow the flow of water by mimicking natural processes and thereby reduce flood risk. This can include peatland restoration, installing leaky dams and creating water storage areas.

A network of such measures will contribute to a reduced chance of homes and businesses in both Weardale and downstream areas being flooded. WRT is looking at solutions to localised flooding issues at Sidehead and Westgate on behalf of Durham County Council.

School Engagement WRT is working with Woodland, Frosterley and Stanhope Barrington Primary schools to trial methods of growing sphagnum moss to help with peatland restoration.

The Trust is hoping to expand its work with schools in Weardale over the coming year to deliver projects and field trips exploring the combined themes of peatland restoration, natural flood management and lead mine remediation in the dale.

These will enable pupils to gain a greater understanding of the river catchment and the work being done to conserve and restore it.

To find out more about these and other projects WRT is involved in, or to discover how you can get involved, please visit wearrivers-trust.org.uk or contact admin@wear-rivers-trust. org.uk.

www.wcng.org

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Detecting Weardale’s past - A Georgian Snuffer

The old house where Barrie was detecting

George II Halfpenny

Keyhole Escutcheon

By Barrie Hardwick HOW nice to be back metal detecting on the hillsides of Ireshopeburn after the long months of lockdown; just great to be back in the fields with views along the dale.

On my recent visit I decided to detect near to an old, and somewhat remote, ruined house sited on a farm where I have permission to search. I had done some detecting over the other side of the house quite early on in the year; the search had produced a few Georgian copper coins, the oldest being halfpenny of George II, who ruled

1727 to 1760.

The first good find of my recent visit turned out to be a Keyhole Escutcheon, which I think to be Georgian.

These fittings are often ornate and usually fitted to drawers, cupboards, wooden trunks or cabinets.

Next came a penny of Queen Victoria, then a penny and three halfpennies of George V. Another signal turned out to be a scallop-shaped brooch which, going on the type of securing point on the back, I would say is Victorian. In between these collectable finds a

number of signals turned out to be pieces of scrap copper, brass or lead.

The last good find of my search seemed at first to be a half section of a pair of old scissors. However, after a bit of scrutiny what crossed my mind was, ‘a part of a candle snuffer’.

A later check on the internet confirmed that I had found a half section of a Georgian Candle Snuffer.

They are scissor-type tools that would cut and retain the wick trimmed from the candles. It seems that the burnt wick was called Snuff, and with the addition of oxygen is very

flammable, so it needed to be isolated to ensure it would not reignite after being trimmed from the wick.

The most common form of a candle snuffer consists of a pair of scissors with an attached box to retain the snuff.

They were invented in 1796 and remained in use into the early 19th century but were rendered obsolete by the invention of self-snuffing wicks which curl out of the flame when charred. This allowed the excess wick to burn away, so preventing the wick from becoming too long.

By Will Parker IN August, the Government announced the biggest shake up of the Planning Laws since the end of the Second World War. In a consultation document known as Planning For the Future, the government lays down its proposals across 84 pages of rhetoric about the outdated planning system and pretty pictures of utopian developments.

The general outline of the plan is to overhaul what is considered by the UK Government as an outdated and over complicated system. We are to make a transition from the site specific and policy driven Local Plan system to a USstyle Zoning System.

The Councils are to be given 30 months from legislation to allocate the entire authority area into one of three categories: growth, renew, protect. The areas zoned as growth or renew

are to receive planning in principle for housing, therefore fast tracking the land into development talks surrounding more important matters such as design and density. The new zoning will last for 10 years, much less than the current Local Plans. If a Council has a Local Plan (or latter stage plan) that is less than 3 years old, then they are permitted 42 months to transition onto the zoning method.

There are number of other proposals regarding standardised levies, data publishing, design codes and community engagement at the earliest stages. The fundamental difference is the tearing up of the rule book when it comes to the presentation of sites and the costly delays of applying for the principle of building houses.

The plan sets out to allow landowners to put forward sites for zoning and then

for the local communities to decide their own fate with regards to how and where the settlement grows, is renewed or protected.

There is currently very little information as to how long an area is protected, or whether it can ever be unprotected.

When considering Weardale specifically, Durham County Council has a Local Plan in the final stages and is likely to receive the 42 months from legislation to make a transition. Presently, the dale has very little housing land allocated in the Plan, excluding some sites in Wolsingham and a large site at Crook. The rural areas away from any employment are not considered to be ‘sustainable’ in the Local Plan. Despite objectives in the plan to ‘support and improve the rural economy’, one can’t help feeling a little

bit left behind when the Plan is analysed.

Is the new method placing the power in the hands of the local people?

Should we all play an active role in agreeing the zoning of our villages? It could be surmised that if we don’t then the whole area might be protected and we might never build another home in Weardale ever again.

I doubt we will ever settle on a zoning plan that pleases everyone, but unless we get involved, we might all be disappointed; again. I therefore encourage you all to read the White Paper and take back what is rightfully ours; the right to live in a buoyant and flourishing community with opportunity for all to thrive.

Follow your spirit, and upon this charge Cry 'God for Harry, England, and Saint George!'

Planning for the future?

Find community funding THERE are hundreds of funding schemes available for voluntary and community groups in County Durham from EU, national, regional and local sources. If you are looking for funding for your

Page 11

community group, including sports clubs; local charities; school fundraising groups or credit unions.

Visit www.durham.gov. uk/communityfunding to find out more.

WEARDALE BASED CHARTERED SURVEYORS, VALUERS & LAND AGENTS Call Will Parker MRICS 07863 209382

The brooch that was found in the grounds

The half section of a Candle snuffer

Volunteer opportunity WEARDALE Community Transport are looking for volunteer car and minibus drivers.

Their transport is available to physically or mentally disabled people, seriously ill people and their carers, rurally isolated people, people affected by poverty, people who have a

lack of available, adequate, accessible and safe public or private transport services and older people who find it difficult or cannot use public transport. If you can help, please ring 01388 528777 for more information.

MiDAS Training will be provided where applicable.

All aspects of building work carried out New Builds Extensions & Garages Conversions & Renovations Roofing & Guttering Joinery & Kitchen Fitting Plastering & Tiling

For a free estimate call:

01388 528288 / 07843 576546

Weardale Funeral Services

Established local family business Offering a caring 24 hour service Private Chapel of Rest Traditional Funerals Memorials and Inscriptions Golden Charter Funeral Plans

Covering Weardale and surrounding areas

Tel, Paul : 01388 528045 Mobile: 0770 341 0765

Page 12

Weardale Community News, September 2020

www.wcng.org

In a special feature for the Weardale Community News, Gordon Ellis of Info-Physio, explains how:

“We’re all in this together”

In many cases what we may consider as a bad day, to someone else is a good day.

Finding the fortitude to be the wishing well builder for someone less fortunate than ourselves, can be a rewarding experience.

Every day is a new day that gives us the chance to care more, forgive more, give more and to do more, through a random act of kindness that’s kept quiet.

Let’s remember to be kind to others and be kind to ourselves.

Phrases such as ‘snap out of it’ or ‘pick yourself up’ would suggest we haven’t grasped or understood what the suffering person goes through. A far better approach is to let them know you’re there, knowing you’re sincere, willing to listen, with empathy to instil trust.

Respectful not to intrude on their personal space, instead treating them with patience.

Whenever possible try to be in the moment of their conversation, be nonjudgemental, listen, try to give your full attention with eye contact.

Far too often the people who struggle become

STR8TS

frustrated as they feel they can’t put over what they are trying to explain.

So, don’t jump in, don’t interrupt, don’t finish their sentence, try and see the problem through their eyes. Allowing and giving them communication space and time, and in time your patience will nourish both you and them.

When wanting to help someone, think about how to best use your communication tools.

Understand what’s making them feel vulnerable and how to establish just one fundamental need that you pick up from the person’s situation to create a step forward in a positive direction to give purpose.

Then workout how best to inspire that need and establish a spark of ‘hope.’

Attempting to facilitate the person’s own thoughts, own growth, own actions by your stepping back, not stepping in. Allowing their own self-discovery through their own thought to create their own positive sustained evolutionary change with patience.

Our mind and our

SUDOKU

Tough

3 6 6

thoughts have the most profound and powerful capabilities. The mental, emotional, and physical trauma we encounter from childhood and throughout adulthood, inevitably plays a significant part in writing our life’s play. Many problems being forged and shaped by a single moment in time, or years of ongoing trauma, neglect, lack of understanding or lack of access to correct health care or a simple injury, illness, condition misdiagnosed, mistreated that escalates.

We need to understand and learn the importance of communication to connect effectively, and not miss the importance of observing and listening.

Demonstrating but not ‘by do as I say,’ more allowing someone to do themselves: let them observe, reflect, experiment and adapt through watching our actions and experimentation with safe guidance when needed.

We seem to consider that our communication skills are something that we are born with and can’t be changed.

Yet when we make efforts to improve and master these

Easy

1 2

5 3 1 5

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number 1 to 9 can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. 2 1 4 Each compartment must form a straight 6 4 5 a set of numbers with no gaps but it can be 4 5 in any order, eg [7,6,9,8]. Clues in black cells 4 3 6 2 remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight.

3 5 2 1 Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ 2 1 3 are formed.

5 1 © 2020 Syndicated Puzzles

7 5 1 9 6 4 1 3 6 2 3 6 5 7 6

3 1 5 3 2 2 1 1 5 4

4 9 7 8

4 3 2 6

6

6 3 2

9 5 4 7 5

tools and skills, they can have a direct and indirect impact on how we are understood.

How we communicate portrays our character, personality, emotional meaning and the trust we hope to create. Setting and establishing boundaries is important too, like a good induction to a new job.

Subtly stating your intention, being aware that at times given the environment these may need to flex due to communication being a two-way process.

Remember who we are and what we become is based on how we nourish and treat our bodies.

This doesn’t just apply to exercise, fluids, food, sleep - It’s also how we nourish our mind and soul. How we communicate, connect, our purpose, hope, meaning, attitude, and knowledge to life.

Society has become detached from the natural world, with many of us, including myself, guilty of an egocentric world view, with belief

that we’re the centre of the universe. We fear the idea of personal change or doing a kind act for others because we think we must sacrifice something. But human beings at our best are so inventive and creative and I think when we use love and compassion as our guiding principles, we can create a better planet to live on that will be beneficial to all.

Here at Info-Physio we work closely with GP’s and local counselling services.

In 2020 we will be running workshops and classes in association with counselling services. You can find more information about all this on our website.

For more information, Gordon can be contacted on 07985 610434 or 07368 220733 Website: www.info-physio. com Facebook: info physio / Gordon Ellis Email: physio-gellis@ hotmail.com

Social media: be hoax aware

© 2020 Syndicated Puzzles

2020 HAS delivered life changing events. Never more has there been a time where as a local and worldwide community we have the opportunity to use our voice for the voiceless.

Throughout our lives, perhaps due to the passing away of a loved one, or something we feel strongly about, we may become the advocate or champion to raise funds for a worthy cause.

When in truth we are all collectively demonstrating a commonality to raise awareness for a greater good.

I thought this article could reflect on the many out there who struggle with mental health in some shape or form. Whether caused by Covid-19, long term chronic pain, emotional anxiety and distress, the side effects that medication can bring, or someone else’s struggle.

The loneliness of someone’s situation, feeling isolated and uncared about can have a major impact, as people may feel that they are emotionally on their own. Let’s consider how we as individuals or as a community can help.

Whatever our religion and beliefs, life is simply time broken down into moments.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org for Sudoku and www.str8ts.com for Str8ts.

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IN July there were a number of posts on local Facebook noticeboards, that involved a terrible story of a lone female motorist being stopped in the middle of nowhere by an unmarked police car.

The story goes that the motorist, Lauren, was worried that it may not be a real police car, refused to leave her car, drove away and later called the nonemergency number. The police inform her that there wasn’t an unmarked police car in the area and that she narrowly avoided an unpleasant fate.

Fortunately, the story is just a hoax, Lauren doesn’t exist and the unpleasant situation never happened.

These awful scare stories get recirculated around social media on a regular basis and Lauren's story has been circulating since at least 2013.

These urban myths appear on social media every few years. You may

have read about hypodermic needles infected with HIV left in vending machines, or razorblades glued to play equipment. The stories are all horrific and they are all false. Unfortunately, many of the stories are convincing enough to encourage people to share them, thinking that they are passing on important information.

Quite why people feel the need to write such horrible things is a mystery. There are a lot of sad and disturbed people in the world and the anonymity of the internet and ability to disseminate information easily, gives them an outlet.

If you come across something similar, or someone sends you a really unpleasant story and asks you to share it, don’t. Just copy and paste some of the text into Google and see if it returns any results.

In all likelihood it will just be another one of these unpleasant hoax stories doing the rounds.

Send your contributions to newsdesk@wcng.org

www.wcng.org

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Change lives by working with Rotary

Page 13

Events industry feels the impact of lockdown

Rotary club members and fire fighter with a new community defibrilator

WHETHER you are volunteering by helping your local NHS, community food bank or responding to local or international disasters, there is a project or activity to suit everyone.

By volunteering with Rotary, you know that you will be changing people’s lives for the better.

Being part of Rotary is more than just giving back to the community by volunteering.

It is also about you bringing your skills experience and enthusiasm to help it thrive, whilst making friends along the way. Crook Rotary Club is a friendly place, and we invite speakers to our meetings from a wide range of backgrounds to share their knowledge, increasing members social and cultural understanding.

Members share a common interest in

friendship and if you visit any club around Great Britain and Ireland you will immediately feel the sense of camaraderie and fun.

Joining a Rotary Club could be the most important thing you ever do. Your skills and experience are invaluable in our drive to help local communities and around the world through our voluntary work.

Projects that have been undertaken locally include: Working in conjunction with the Three Towns Partnership, the club have installed three Automated External Defibrillator’s (AED) in locked cabinets at Market Square outside what was Addisons Surveyors, Hardy’s at Bellvue, Crook and the community fire station.

The Defibrillators are to treat someone you think may be a victim of sudden cardiac arrest, (SCA). The defibrillator can be accessed

by dialling 999 giving the location of the cabinet to the Ambulance Service who will provide the keypad access code.

There are many ways to get involved with Rotary.

•Join your local Crook Rotary Club.

•Donate to a club or a Rotary Initiative.

•Volunteer to speak at a club about a cause or interest.

•If you are a student, participate in a Rotary Competition.

If Rotary sounds like the organisation for you and you wish to find out more, then we would like to hear from you. The Rotary Club of Crook, normally meet on a Monday evening at The Duke of York, Fir Tree, Crook, DL15 8DG, however we are currently meeting by Zoom during the pandemic restrictions. For more details contact 01388 517742, or visit rotarygbi.org.

kickboxing and grappling.

The club’s coaches are professional fighters, who also represent the club when competing.

Crook MMA welcomes beginners and amateurs of any level to train and meets Sunday 9 - 11am, Tuesday 5 - 7pm and Thursday 7 9pm at Helmington Scout

Hall in Crook.

Private lessons are also available through the club, including fitness and weight loss. Kids Kickboxing classes are also held for children aged 6-12.

Find the club on Facebook and Instagram, under CrookMMA

Crook Mixed Martial Arts Club

Members of Crook MMA

MIXED Martial arts, or MMA is a combat sport that allows all forms of striking and grappling arts, such as kickboxing, wrestling and jiu jitsu.

Crook MMA was started

by Richie Bonallie in 2017 and members range from beginners to amateurs who compete in MMA,

Chris Dakers, founder of the North East Singing Waiters, entertaining at a wedding

Chris Dakers, founder of The North East Singing Waiters explains the impact that the pandemic has had on the entertainments industry I have worked my entire career as a singer, I left school at 16 without any direction and was lucky enough to be spotted and offered work. I have worked all around Europe singing as a solo artist and as part of a band.

With the arrival of my children I wanted to find a way to not have to travel so much and came up with the idea of starting a singing waiters business and The North East Singing Waiters was founded.

In 2010 I began putting together a show that provides surprise entertainment at weddings and corporate events by posing as waiters and bursting into song, getting everybody on their feet and dancing. It was an instant success receiving accolades and awards across the industry, it has since been copied by several others, but that’s another story altogether!

During the last ten years I have worked with many talented people to come up

with what I now consider my dream team. We have built excellent working relationships with venues who highly recommend us to potential customers.

Things have gone from strength to strength with 2019 being our busiest year so far. The 2020 diary was bursting at the seams and was looking to be a very lucrative year for me and my singing waiters once wedding season kicked in at the end of March.

Then disaster struck with the arrival of Covid-19 and restrictions on social interaction. At once all of our clients were getting in touch moving their dates to next year. First, they were moving weddings from April to September and then we heard from the May weddings who started moving to next year, this has continued and every month we have had another month postponed.

The main issue we have is that there is no definite date for us to be back to normal. As singers, we are all self-employed and are not entitled to furlough.

We have no premises, so were not entitled to the £10,000 grants that many

local businesses have received. The only thing we are entitled to is the selfemployed support scheme.

The way this is calculated basically means I have had the equivalent of one month’s salary since January.

The events industry is a massive sector and many of these businesses are in the same position as me. The recent #redalert #WeMakeEvents campaign, supported locally by an event held at Crook Community Leisure centre, has highlighted the plight of the industry.

T h e #whataboutweddings campaign aims to draw attention to the suppliers and venues that have been massively impacted by the restrictions of large events.

I feel like we are all stuck in limbo and we have no clue as to when we will be able to return to work, people are downscaling their weddings and venues are going out of business.

In an industry based on profile and being in the public eye all these months of silence are doing harm to our future bookings. w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / Thenortheastsingingwaiters

Page 14

Weardale Community News, September 2020

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www.wcng.org

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All electrical work undertaken, from small domestic repairs to full rewires. A fully certified and insured commercial service also available.

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www.wcng.org

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Find the Weardale Directory online at: ww.wcng.org

Page 15

Weardale Museum Commemorates V.J. Day

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RPS Heating and Plumbing • Gas Safe Registered • 24 Hour service covering County Durham • New gas boilers fitted from £795, with payment plans available

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BISHOP LOCK & SAFE Bishop Lock & Safe offer a 24/7 call out service to both commercial & domestic customers. We specialise in lock-out situations, UPVC door lock repairs and Access Control Systems.

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Albert Roy Russell Robson

By Kathleen Gill UNABLE to open at present, the Museum wishes to commemorate ten men of Weardale who served in the Far East during and immediately after WW2. Many thanks to the members of the public who sent us information.

Ken Dawson: born on 15 Sept 1923 at White Kirkley.

He served in the 16th Battalion, Durham Home Guard before joining up and worked at Wolsingham Steel Works.

Ken joined the Royal Air Force and he left photographs of time that he spent in Rangoon, Burma and Colombo in Ceylon.

Some photos show HMS Cheshire in the harbours of Rangoon and Colombo; she was used as a repatriation ship post war. After being demobbed Ken started working for British Rail and was promoted to work in their offices in York.

He eventually retired to Frosterley.

John Thomas Perry: was born 26 Mar 1919. He joined the Middlesex Regiment and served as a Private in the 1st Battalion which was stationed in Hong Kong when war was declared.

When Japan entered the war their forces invaded and the 1st Battalion was part of the Allied forces that held out for 17 days against overwhelming odds before having to surrender. Hong Kong fell on Christmas Day 1941 and it is likely that John was killed then as he died on 23 Dec., he was just 22 years of age. John is commemorated on the memorial at the Sai Wan Cemetery in Hong Kong.

Jackie Fairless: born on 13 Jan 1925; the family lived at Middle White Stones. There is a record of him serving in the 16 Battalion Durham Home Guard presumably until he was old enough to join up, which was to the Royal Marines.

He worked as a driver and usually drove heavy lorries taking the lead in a

Jackie Fairless

convoy. On one occasion his truck wouldn’t start so a mate of his took the lead and the truck hit a landmine.

He was one of the drivers at Admiral Mountbatten’s headquarters in Kandy. After the war he returned home and in 1946 married Grace Bell at Wearhead.

The Gowland brothers: Robert William Gowland & Wilfrid Gowland were the sons of William and Florence of Wearhead.

Robert joined the Royal Navy for his war service.

As an Able Seaman he was serving on HMS Empire Arquebus when it was sent to the Far East to transport troops. In mid-March the ship stopped at Manus Island and Robert was transferred to the hospital there where he died on 29th aged just 20 years. He was laid to rest in the Lae War Cemetery on New Guinea.

Wilfrid joined the 2nd Battalion, Durham Light Infantry and was sent to the Far East. He was only 18 years of age when he died so cannot have been serving very long. The 2nd DLI were sent to Singapore in Nov 1945 and in early 1947 they were engaged in fighting ‘bandits’ in the area around Maymyo. Wilfrid died on 10 Feb 1947 which would be shortly after the Battalion went to Burma. He is buried in Rangoon War Cemetery, Myanmar.

William Hunter Martin: born in Alston on 26 Aug 1905 to John and Sarah Emily. By 1911 the family were living in Bishopley.

William married Marjorie Peacock in Reeth in 1931 and they had 3 sons, Peter, John and Kenneth.

During the war William was serving with the Royal Artillery as a gunner. He was deployed to the 95th Battery 48 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment which was sent to the Far East. William was taken prisoner by Japanese forces on 20 Mar 1942 and sent to the main POW camp in Java where he sadly died of dysentery on 6 Oct 1942

at the age of 37.

He is buried in the Jakarta War Cemetery.

Albert Roy Russell Watson: born on 7 Oct 1919, in Frosterley.

Although it is not clear when William Martin’s grave in Jakarta he signed up, he Rookhope. Working as a joined the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers labourer before the war he and by 1942 was a Lance joined the Royal Artillery and Corporal in the 9th Battalion. trained as a Gunner. He was The Battalion was sent to serving with the 35th Light Singapore just days before Anti-Aircraft Regiment when the British surrender on 15 he was posted as missing Feb 1942 and Albert, along in Malaya on 15 Feb 1942, with thousands of others, the date of the surrender of was taken prisoner. He was Allied Forces.

Taken prisoner he was held in one of the POW camps in Thailand and sadly sent to No 4 POW camp in Thailand. Prisoners from this died there on 9 Nov 1943.

Albert’s grave lies in camp were among those Chungkai War Cemetery, made to work on building railways. The camp was Kanchanabur, Thailand.

Sam Scholfield: Sam liberated on 2 Sep 1945 and was born in Todmorden, records show that William Lancashire on 29 Sept 1913. arrived back in England on Sam suffered from poor 12 October. eyesight and decided that Fred Waidson: born on 16 the only way he could join up Jul 1913, the son of William was to enrol as a bandsman. Henry Waidson and Kate of He was reported missing in Wolsingham; he was their the Far East in March 1942 only child. by then a Gunner with the Fred joined the Royal 85th Anti-Tank Regiment of Corps of Signals and, by the Royal Artillery.

1942, was serving with the At the surrender of 77th Heavy Anti-Aircraft British and Allied troops Regiment and had been the men from this regiment promoted to Lance Sergeant. were sent to Changi POW Fred was taken prisoner camp and most were forced when the Allied Forces to become labourers on the surrendered on 15 Feb 1942. notorious Death Railway; He survived over 3 Sam was one of those men. years living in dreadful He managed to survive circumstances. It is possible the appalling conditions that he was one of the and was liberated after the POW’s forced to march Japanese surrender. After from the camp at Sandakan arriving back in England he during 1945. was billeted at Harperley Fred died on 24 Jul 1945, Camp for a time and while aged 32 years, he was one of there met Margaret Freak only a handful of prisoners who would become his left then as, by the end of wife in 1950. They settled that month, only 32 were in Wolsingham, Sam formed part of the Wolsingham still alive out of an estimated Steelworks Male Voice Choir total of almost 2,500 men.

Fred is commemorated and played with Stanhope on the Singapore Memorial Silver Band.

William Watson Ward: born at Kranji and his name is also on 12 Nov 1920, was the son on the memorial at Ranau of Robert and Matilda who on the site of the former lived at Burnside Cottage, camp.

Page 16

Weardale Community News, September 2020

Gregg’s marathon runs for search and rescue team GREGG Stevens is running to raise money for the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team.

Gregg will be running the Great North Run and New York Marathon aiming to raise £500 for this important service.

Due to the pandemic, the marathons will be held virtually, with entrants able to compete from anywhere in the world.

On the 6th of July Gregg began his couch to 5K journey, having not run for almost 21 years.

In order to motivate himself he signed up for the Great North Run’s solo runs, involving 40 individual runs to be completed in time for the Great North Run on the 13th September.

Gregg says, “Any support no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and I know in these strange times that things might be difficult for each and every one of

you so thanks for whatever you can give even if it's just some morale support.”

The rescue team consists of about 50 volunteers, all on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All the volunteers have full time jobs and meet most of their own expenses. The team will typically respond to between 40 and 50 requests for help every year.

Team vehicles, rescue kit, medical supplies and operational running costs are in excess of £40,000 per year so they rely on donations from the public to allow them to continue providing this free public emergency service.

Below is a list of the runs that Gregg will be taking part in: Great North Run series:

GNR Solo 40 runs (target 100 miles) by 13th September, GNR Reimagined 13.1miles on 13th September. New York Marathon series: Harlem 5k on 16th August, 5th Avenue Mile on 4th September, Bronx 10mile on 20th September, New York Marathon 26.2miles on 1st November.

To sponsor Gregg and help raise vital funds for the TWSMRT, visit justgiving. com and search for Gregg’s Marathon Run.

Local Events St. John’s Chapel Town Hall Gym All gym equipment must be cleaned and disinfected before and after every use All Social Distancing Regulations and Government guidelines to be adhered to The Gym is open on a booking system with only 4 people allowed in the gym at any one time For more information and to book a slot Please ring Joan on 01388537606 or email joan. warriner@btinternet.com £2 per hour, instruction given first visit OPENING TIMES MONDAY: 10.00am -11.00am (Private Group) 6.00pm - 7.00pm TUESDAY: 9.00am –10.00am 6.30pm - 7.30pm WEDNESDAY: 9.00am -10.00am 10.00am -11.00am (Private Group) FRIDAY: 2.00pm -3.00pm SATURDAY: 9.00am -10.00am Upper Weardale Cinema Club All social distancing regulations and government

guidelines have been implemented in the hall and must be followed including wearing face masks in the cinema.

Friday 4th September Frozen 2, 6.00pm, cert U, Runtime 1hr 43mins 1917, 8.00pm, cert 15 Runtime 1hr 59mins Friday 18th September Spies In Disguise, 6.00 pm cert PG, Runtime 1hr 42mins Cats, 8.00pm, cert PG, Runtime 1hr 50mins Cinema Club Contacts Booking Secretary : Shelly Scholes, Tel: 01434345024 Town Hall Secretary : Joan Warriner Tel: 01388537606 E-mail : shellyscholes@ gmail.com E-mail : joan.warriner@ btinternet.com The Cinema Club shows films every first and third Friday in the month, first

showing at 6.00pm for children and families and at 7.30pm, 7.45pm or 8.00pm for older children and adults Everyone attending a film must be a Member of the Cinema this will cost you £2 on your first visit.

Meals to Wheels, September Tuesday 1st, lunch at The Brown Horse, £15 Thursday 10th, Soup and Sweet, £5, St Thomas’s Church Hall Monday 14th, Garden centre trip, The Brambles, Shincliffe, £7 Friday 25th, lunch at Cross Keys, £15 Monday 28th, assisted shopping, Arnison Centre, £7 Lunch is at 12.30 and pick ups start at around 11am.

Book on 01388 528777.

To be included in our local guide send details of your event or club to newsdesk@wcng.org Str8ts Solution

7 8 4 3 2 1

8 7 8 9 6 4 9 5 7 1 3 5 7 2 6 9 4 5 1 4 3 2 3 6 4 1 2 3 5

Sudoku Solution

2 3 6 1 2 3 3 4 2 5 4 8 1 7 8 6 7 8 5 9 7 7 9 6 8 4 5 1 2 3 6

Answers to the Life in the UK questions from page 9: 1. Anglo Saxon & Norman French.

2. The Iron Age. 3. William The Conqueror.

7 2 4 5 8 6 3 9 1

9 8 3 4 1 7 6 5 2

6 5 1 3 2 9 7 8 4

3 9 5 2 4 8 1 6 7

1 6 8 7 9 3 2 4 5

2 4 7 1 6 5 9 3 8

8 3 2 6 7 4 5 1 9

5 7 9 8 3 1 4 2 6

4 1 6 9 5 2 8 7 3

4. Hiding in an Oak Tree.

5. Protestant.

6. 60.

7. North American.

8. When Charles I was executed.

www.wcng.org

Win an original painting by John Wigston

St. Thomas’ Church, by John Wigston

THE Friends of St. Thomas in Stanhope are raising funds for much needed repairs to the church roof. Local artist, John Wigston has painted a picture of St. Thomas’ Church, which can be won in a raffle.

Tickets are still available from the

following places: St Thomas' Church, Woodhalls, The Hub and Weardale Funeral Services There will be a display featuring all of the prizes in October. It's £1 a strip of £5 for a book.

Vote for County Durham’s Garden Treasures BEAUTIFUL gardens and floral displays across County Durham are vying for the public’s vote this month.

Entries for the Garden Treasures contest are now closed and now members of the public are being called on to help choose the winners.

Organised by Durham County Council’s civic pride team, the competition encouraged residents to share pictures of their beautiful outdoor spaces and describe what they mean to them. They were also asked to explain how gardening has helped them through the lockdown phase of the pandemic.

A wealth of wonderful entries flooded in and the team now faces the tough

job of choosing a winner for each category. They are also calling on the public to help identify the winner of the people’s choice award.

Due to the high volume of entries, the top three in each category have been selected and uploaded onto the team’s Instagram page www.instagram.com/ civicpridedurham/ for a public vote.

To take part, people should ‘like’ their favourite picture before midnight on Thursday 27 August. The winners in each category and the public vote will be informed the next day and will receive a £30 National Garden Voucher.

The categories are: •Garden, either front or back

•Yard area •Floral containers, including baskets, tubs and troughs •Children's garden area •Most improved Councillor Brian Stephens, the council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, said: “Whether you are lucky enough to have a garden, balcony or even a window box, growing flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables can do wonders for our mental health. I am sure it was a source of great joy and comfort to many residents during the lockdown.

“I would like to encourage everyone to get involved by voting for their favourites over the next month. It may give you inspiration for your own gardens.”