thirlwells - Billingham Community Newspaper

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Free Ice Skating
Lessons
Every Monday throughout 2015
There is a free ice-skating sessions
for women and girls at Forum Ice
Rink between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.
The session is funded by Sport
England to encourage women and
girls to get involved in sport in 2015,
all abilities and all ages are welcome.
Price: Free.
Coffee Morning
The Hospital of God at Greatham
invite you to join them at their coffee
morning held on the first Friday
of the month at Hereford Terrace
Community Centre. Starting at 10 am
– 12.30 you can enjoy good company
at this monthly get together, meet old
friends and make new one’s over a
great cup of coffee.
This event provides a wonderful
opportunity for both carers and
sufferers of dementia to continue their
social life in a friendly and relaxed
atmosphere.
Call Jane Conroy on 01429 279005
for further information.
ISSUE 35
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
thirlwells
T E E S S I D E ’ S E STAT E AG E N T
the name you can trust!
JAN/FEB 2015
Billingham
Number 1 Number 1
for New Listings in
Billingham & Number 2
in Middlesbrough
for available properties in
Billingham & Number 2
in Middlesbrough
We are Teesside’s longest
established independent
professional Estate Agents
65 Queensway, Billingham, TS23 2LU. T. 01642 361 111
75-77 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 3AA. T. 01642 245 796
ESTATE AGENTS • LETTINGS • VALUATIONS • AUCTIONS
www.thirlwell-estates.co.uk
Pick up
a free car
from either
of our
offices!
MBE Honours for Joan
Fun Run at Tees
Barrage
Every Saturday morning at 9am at
the Tees Barrage there is free 5km
which is open to all abilities and ages.
You can run for fun or you can run
competitively, all you need to do is
register online before your first park
run at parkrun.org and you’re good
to go. Contact teesbarragehelpers@
parkrun.com for more details. Price:
Free.
Saltholme Walks
Sunday 15th February Saltholme
Walks led by RSPB volunteers around
the trails at Saltholme RSPB reserve.
Walks begin at 12.30pm and can last
up to 3 hours, please wear appropriate
footwear and clothing. Price: Free.
Frozen Sing-a-long
17th January, Billingham Forum at
11:30am & 3:30pm and Saturday 28th
Middlesbrough theatre at 2.30pm.
Relive Disney’s best-selling movie. A
full screening of Disney’s FROZEN
with lyrics on screen to help you sing
along with Anna and Elsa during the
film. Price: Adults £15, Children £ 10,
Family £42.
TEES Credit Union
Ltd Collection Points
Monday’s 1.30 – 3.00pm New Life
Family Centre, Low Grange Avenue,
Billingham
Thursday’s 11.00am -12.00pm
Billingham Food Bank, 4 - 6 West
Precinct, Billingham Town Centre
Friday’s 10.00 - 11.00am Clarences
Community Centre, Port Clarence
Road, Port Clarence, Billingham
Billingham resident Joan Murray has been a member
of The Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion
for over 50 years and was recognised in the New Year’s
Honours List for her years of dedicated voluntary
service with an MBE.
Following on from the Royal British Legion’s 100 year
centenary celebrations during 2014 this award truly
is the icing on the cake recognising the outstanding
contribution and support Joan gives to those in need
through the Women’s Section of the Royal British
Legion. We believe the whole community will be so
proud that Joan’s selfless service has been recognised
with an MBE.
Joan said ‘It’s an incredible honour to receive this
award; I’m excited, humbled and very proud. The
hardest part was keeping it secret from my family until
the announcement was made on 31 December but, as
soon as the list was published I called my daughters
who were overjoyed for me too.’
Joan, married to Tom, was encouraged to join the
RBLWS by her mother, who herself was a founding
branch member in the women’s section. Joan now has
two daughters and a granddaughter following in her
footsteps and carrying on the family legacy.
Her current role in the Women’s Section is as a
Central Committee Member based in the Norton
Branch but serving the region. Joan used her voluntary
role initially as an opportunity to meet new people
and, having previously served in the Women’s Royal
Air Force, she knew being involved with the RBLWS
was good idea and a cause well worth supporting.
Joan’s voluntary roles have been extensive across
those 50 years of service acting as a Branch Treasurer
since 1965, serving as Group 5 Secretary, Treasurer,
and Vice-President of Durham and North Yorkshire
County, her role also includes being a Central
Committee Member of the Women’s Section. That
is a strategic role that helps influence and shape the
direction and management of the organisation.
The section is always looking for new members –
Joan said ‘Whilst Service personnel are in the Armed
Forces, whether involved in conflicts around the world
or serving in home bases, their families, especially
those abroad, need our support. That is not always
financial support but sometimes, just a friendly face or
a shoulder to lean on in what can be difficult situations,
especially if their loved ones are far from home serving
in dangerous conditions. It’s not an easy task but it is
essential for us to continue to give support to those in
need 365 days a year, so if any readers could volunteer,
then please do so, you would be very welcome”.
Joan wasn’t the only local to be recognised on the
New Year’s Honours, with David Robinson CEO of
PD Ports and Maura Regan CEO of Carmel Academy
Trust also being recognised this year.
David was awarded an MBE in the New Year’s
Honours List for services to international trade and the
UK economy.
Mr Robinson was appointed chief executive officer of
PD Ports in 2006 after joining the... Cont on page 3
Stay up to date with all things billingham at
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Our Sponsors
The Billingham Community
Newspaper is an
independent
publication that is funded
by sponsorship and adverts.
This issue has been
supported by:
Low Vision Supplies
www.lowvisionsupplies.com
Queensway Dental Clinic
www.queensway.co.uk
Billingham International Folklore
Festival
01642 553220
Tilly Bailey & Irvine
0800 052 6824
www.tbilaw.co.uk
St. Modwen (Billingham) Ltd.
Telephone: 01642 360973
PD Ports
www.pdports.co.uk
Impetus Environmental Trust
01642 673313
The Pharmacy
Telephone: 01642 530304
www.theplaceinbillingham.co.uk
01642 564077
JW Smith Accountants
0800 915 5393
SRC 6th Form College
www.stockton.ac.uk
Northfield School & Sports College
www.northfield.stockton.sch.uk
Cowpen Cars
01642 370101
Thirlwells Estate Agents
01642 361 111
Flooring Pete
01642 891840
‘‘
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Vals
Corner
Val Scollen, Chair, Board of Trustees
Happy New Year to you all and wishing you all health, wealth and
happiness for 2015! I’m hoping as you read this edition you will see
happiness in abundance, not only the Christmas celebrations but the
outstanding achievements of YOU our residents and businesses in and
around our community. What outstanding successes in the New Year’s
Honours list – your heart truly bursts with pride that these good people
are recognised for their work. How stunning does Kennedy Gardens look
now and what about our new Library and Customer Service Centre?
We continue to see new developments on our doorstep St Michael’s new
build, new housing and new training facilities – all so positive for our
community.
One story that really caught my eye was the hopes and wishes of young
Amelia from St Joseph’s, that we should build a better world through
respect for each other………..how wise are the young!
Hope we can all learn from Amelia in 2015 and strengthen our
community through that respect for each other.
Remember each edition is brought to you by volunteers, we rely on
advertisements and sponsorship to get each edition to print, if you can
help us in 2015, please do contact us – how small, every £1 helps us to
give our community a voice.
‘‘
2
by Val Scollen
BROUGHT YOU BY LOW VISION SUPPLIES
176 Belasis Avenue , Billingham
TEL: 01642 530801
www.lowvisionsupplies .com
Useful Numbers
Local Government
• Billingham Town Council –
01642 551171
• Stockton Borough Council –
01642 393939
Community
• BELP – 01642 559115
• Hereford Terrace – 01642 564077
• Billingham Carnival and Garden
Show – 01642 559115
• BIFF – 01642 553220
• CAB – 01642 633 877
• SRCGA – 01642 733902
Libraries
• Bedale Avenue – 01642 527895
• Roseberry Library – 01642 528084
Business Services
• Know How NE – 01642 607592
• Five Lamps – 0800 4580 120
• HMRC – 0845 0109000
Emergency Services
• Cleveland Fire Brigade HQ –
01429 872311 or 999
• Billingham Fire Station, Seaton
Carew Road – 01642 546000
• Cleveland Police – 01642 326326
or in an emergency 999
• Billingham Police Station,
Town Centre – 01642 302930
• Billingham Neighbourhood
Enforcement Team –
07747 033429
• Ambulance – 01904 666000
• James Cook University Hospital –
01642 850850
• University Hospital of North Tees
– 01642 617617
• NHS Direct – 0845 46 47
GP Practices
Billingham Removals
07903 265 409
Billingham Gardening Services
07712228555
The Lock Shop
07717357791
• Kingsway Medical Centre –
01642 554967
• Abbey Health Centre –
01642 552700
• Melrose Surgery – 01642 553055
Chemists
The Consultancy
01429 239689
www.theconsultancy.co.uk
• The Pharmacy, Finchale Ave –
01642 530304
• Davidson Pharmacy,
3 Station Road – 01642 360145
• Billchem Ltd, Billingham Health
Centre Pharmacy – 01642 553846
• Boots – 01642 553263
• Harry Hill Chemists,
Kenilworth Road – 01642 553184
• Rowlands Pharmacy,
39 Queensway – 01642 554416
• Tesco Pharmacy, Leaholme Road –
0845 677 9770
If you are interested in
becoming a sponsor or
advertising in the
newspaper, please email us
at news@billinghamcommunitynewspaper.
co.uk or call 01642 564 077.
Billingham Community Newspaper
is published by the Billingham
Community Newspaper Ltd.,
a not-for-profit company limited by
guarantee, run by a board of trustees.
Whilst every care is taken,
the publishers cannot be held
responsible for the accuracy of any
information herein. All dates and
details of events may be subject to
change and you are advised to check
with the organisers.
The publishers endeavour that any
information is correct at the time of
printing but may be liable to change.
The views expressed herein are not
necessarily those of the publishers.
BCN Hereford Terrace
Billingham
TS23 4AA - Tel: 01642 564077
[email protected]
Printed locally on Teesside.
JAN/FEB 2015
Churches
WEBSITE SPECIALISTS
WWW.THECONSULTANCY.CO.UK
01429 239 689
• New Life Church – 01642 646009
• St Cuthbert’s – 01642 554929
• Our Lady of the Most Holy
Rosary – 01642 553118
• St Columba’s – 01642 654388
• St Luke’s – 01642 554929
• St Aidan’s – 01642 554929
• St Mary Magdalene –
01642 554929
• North and South Billingham
Methodist – 01642 562046
• Spiritualist Church – 01642 881211
• Kingdom Hall – 01642 563895
• Billingham Baptist Church –
01642 656966
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Day Saints – 01642 563162
St Peter’s Church Wolviston
01642 554929
JAN/FEB 2015
News in Brief
Royal British
Legion
Firstly sincere congratulations to Joan
Murray on her being awarded an MBE
in the New Year’s Honours list – what a
fantastic achievement!
December 16th, 1914, is a day
remembered locally as “The day the
Germans came.” That was when several
large German warships sailed into
Tees Bay and commenced to bombard
Hartlepool, firing over 1000 shells,
killing more than 100 men, women and
children.
Out of respect for those whose lives
were lost and to their surviving families,
Billingham Branch of the RBL marked
the Centenary at the War Memorial in
Station Road by dipping their Standard
and holding a minute’s silence to the
sound of the bugle.
Other future key events of the ‘Great
War’ will be marked in a similar manner
and we will attempt to publish these dates
in advance, to allow those readers of
those families whose lives were affected
by the happenings of 100 years ago to
take part.
Membership of the RBL is open to
everyone. If you have an interest in the
objectives of the Legion and want to
help and support for those who have
served and their families, come and join
us at one of our branch meetings, held
on the first Wednesday every month in
The Hereford Centre, Hereford Terrace,
Billingham. There is car parking in
Charltons Pond car park. We welcome
men and women of all ages, whether they
have served in the Armed Forces or not.
Legion membership ensures that
• Remembrance is kept alive and that
the sacrifices our brave Service men and
women have made are never forgotten.
• The ex-Service community have a
voice and that their concerns are brought
to the public eye.
Becoming a member also provides the
opportunity to get involved in a wide
range of activities and events held locally,
regionally and nationally throughout
the year. Contact branch secretary Mick
Foster on 01642 644645 or 07951241870
Port Clarence Bus
Service
After a long battle to maintain
transport links to Port Clarence service
finished on 29 December 2014 isolating
the community from the Billingham
and Stockton. Know How North East
has committed for a limited 3 month
period to supplying a temporary
service, departing and returning to the
Community Hub in Port Clarence.
Without some other form of help or
support it is unlikely that this service
could continue – if you are able to help,
please do contact us and we will pass on
your details to Know How North East
as we all work together to ensure Port
Clarence stays connected.
Wedding Fayre
Wynyard Hall 5.30 pm – 9 pm, 26
January - Free entry and bubbly on
arrival, host of local suppliers on hand
with our expert events team to help you
plan the wedding of your dreams. More
information call 01740 644811
If you have news stories,
please email us at:
news@billingham
communitynewspaper.co.uk
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
3
Locals Recognised in New Years Honours
Continued from front page... Company in 2002 as
managing director of Teesport, one of the UK’s top
three ports.
In the last 12 years, David has steered the Company
through some tough challenges including a difficult
recession, which was compounded by the temporary
loss of steel making on Teesside. Under his direction,
PD Ports has continued to invest in both its people and
infrastructure, including a £16.7m expansion of the
‘Teesport Container Terminal’ in 2011 and dedicated
bespoke apprenticeship programmes. In 2014 PD
Ports committed a further £30M to various projects to
enhance and expand the Company’s operating platform.
“I am absolutely thrilled to receive such an honour.
The UK ports sector has a critical role to play in
international trade and in attracting inward investment
to grow a stronger and more sustainable economy. The
North of England is significant in this role and here on
Teesside we have a number of world class businesses
and highly skilled people doing a tremendous job.
We need to continue building on this good work both
regionally and nationally to provide a solid platform for
a sustainable and progressive future.”
David was appointed HRH the Prince of Wales’
Ambassador for Business in the Community in 2012 for
his contribution to raising aspirations of young people
on Teesside and increasing employment opportunities
within the maritime sector. In the same year the High
Tide Foundation was established and continues to grow
its activities for 2015 and beyond, supporting the young
people of Teesside.
Maura Regan, Principal of Carmel College and Chief
Executive of the Carmel Education Trust, (of which
our own St Michael’s RC Academy is a part of that
trust) was awarded an OBE for her years of dedicated
service to education... read about Subhash Chaudhary
MBE on page18.
Billingham Teacher in the running
to be named best in the world
Dr Richard Spencer, from Billingham,
is one of only two UK finalists in an
international competition to find the
world’s best teacher.
Richard, who teaches at Middlesbrough
College, is shortlisted for a prize of $1m
(£640,000) for the Varkey Gems Global
Teacher Prize to find the world’s most
outstanding teacher.
The winner will be announced in March.
Dr Spencer, known to his students
as “Doc” is Head of Science at MC6,
Middlesbrough College’s purpose-built
sixth form, where he teaches A level
Biology to 70 students.
He said the world’s best teacher
competition was a “fantastic way of raising
the profile of teaching”.
He added: “It’s fascinating to learn from
teachers from other countries and to find
out about different ways of engaging and
enthusing students.
“I’ve been involved with Science on
Stage Europe for many years but winning
the award would give me the opportunity
to be involved in teaching and learning
initiatives globally.”
Dr Spencer studied for a PhD in
molecular biology before becoming a
teacher and has previously won prizes for
his work as a science teacher.
Earlier this year he was named as one of
the UK’s top 100 practising scientists on
a list drawn up by the Science Council to
celebrate its tenth anniversary.
He received an MBE for services to
science communication in 2010 and over
the past ten years has received numerous
awards for innovative science teaching.
He is a member of three UK science
committees – Science on Stage UK,
Nuffield Bioethics Education Advisory
Group and Commemorating Biology
Working Group.
Dr Spencer involves his students in
science projects, contributes to science
education at conferences and festivals
across Europe, and has been involved
in teacher collaboration and training
events involving teachers from across
Europe.
Zoe Lewis, Middlesbrough College
principal and chief executive, said:
“We’re thrilled to have Dr Spencer on
the teaching staff, he’s an inspiration.
We wish him good luck in the
competition.”
The finalists are being judged on
criteria including innovation in
teaching, providing a role model,
contributing to the public debate on
education and sharing ideas with other
teachers.
Richard is among 50 finalists from
26 countries, with 16 of the shortlisted
teachers coming from the United
States, others coming from countries
including Afghanistan, China, Kenya
and Germany.
The competition is being run by
the Varkey GEMS Foundation, the
charitable arm of the Dubai-based
GEMS private school chain. The aim
of the Global Teacher Prize is to raise
the status of teaching, with the UK
finalists chosen by a panel of experts,
including former Ofsted chief Sir Mike
Tomlinson.
The winner will be chosen by the
Global Teacher Prize Academy made up
of head-teachers, educational experts,
commentators, journalists, public
officials, tech entrepreneurs, company
directors and scientists from around the
world.
Many congratulations Richard on
being shortlisted and hope you bring
the trophy home!
4
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Building Billingham. Now open for business
Kennedy Gardens Official Opening
Bottom picture L-R Ummar Hannif, Thirteen Group, Mark Simpson Chair
Tristar Homes, Michelle Bendelow Residents Group, Alex Cunningham MP
Mark Simpson Chair of Tristar
Homes officially opened the newly
refurbished Kennedy Gardens
with residents and invited guests
recently.
Mark stated “The work that has
been delivered here at Kennedy
Gardens is truly magnificent and a
testament to everyone involved.”
The £10m refurbishment of
Kennedy Gardens was been in
discussion and planning for over
3 years. It started with a rigorous
tender process, which included
the involvement of Kennedy
Gardens resident Norma Pearson
in contractor selection and from
commencement of the bathrooms
to the exceptional facilities we see
today.
The tender was won by Wates, their
submission focussed on quality
and demonstrated their experience
of delivering similar scale projects
successfully, including Cruddas
Park (Newcastle).
Mark Simpson said “We had a
dedicated design team and involved
our customers in the decision
making process for various items
of the works. We engaged with
our tenants throughout the works
holding weekly coffee mornings
creating a forum for customers to
share their experiences, be kept
informed of the works in progress
and to report any issues or concerns
direct to the team as well as a
friendly chat over a cuppa.
This also led to working with our
customers on a number of fund
raising ventures with monies
going to number of charitable
organisations including the Great
North Air Ambulance and the
Macmillan Cancer Trust. And
I know that the charities were
incredibly grateful for this support.”
This wonderful development
with facilities that rival exclusive
London developments, has a host of
sustainable benefits, too numerous
to mention all, but they do include:
• Insulated and rendered buildings,
creating greater thermal comfort
and reduced carbon / energy
consumption
• Increased living space with natural
light as result of the new extended
balconies
• Solar panels to the roof areas
• LED lighting to the upper floors
and PIR activated lighting
• New high spec windows
throughout
• Barrier controlled residential car
parking with electric car charging
points
• Bin chutes for better waste
management control
• 12 new-build apartments with
some having wheelchair accessible
facilities
• And… External lighting scheme
with feature lighting to the roof
There are plans for landscaped
gardens which when complete, will
complement the new sculpture
already erected called ‘Tree of
Hands’ by Andy Hazel, creating a
welcoming and enjoyable space to
sit, walk through or simply gaze
upon.
The sculpture is iconic as residents
were asked to draw around
their hands, which were then
fabricated into the design to leave
individual marks on the project
(this also included the project team
members). It is a truly wonderful
piece.
This sculpture symbolises many
things including a coming together
of all parties involved in the project
as well as the idea of a new tree
growing from existing grounds to
create something new and exciting
– a true partnership.
Mark expressed thanks to key
partners, who helped deliver such
a fantastic project particularly,
Jo Jamieson and Mick Hollings
Directors at Wates, with their
management team Hayden
Chappell, Dave Woodcock and
Mick Wade. David Pearson from
Elliotts, Architect Blake Hopkins
and 3 Kennedy Garden tenants who
helped at every stage of the project,
Norma Pearson, who was part of
the contractor selection process,
Helen Miller – Chair of Tristar
Resident group and Judith Sweeting
who all helped throughout.
Special thanks also to Stockton
Borough Council and the Homes
and Communities Agency for grant
funding the new ground floor units.
Tristar’s own team was Project
Manager - Anth Ferguson , Project
Officer - Zoe Lambert, Clerk of
Works – Ian Cushlow, Contract
Manager Keith Moulder and Head
of Investment Nik Turner.
Pic in front of the sculpture: Dave Pickard
Group Director Operations Thirteen
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Building Billingham...Work in progress
New Library Now Open for Business
BCN had the pleasure of visiting
the new purpose built Library and
Customer Service Centre as it opened
its doors for service on 5th January;
we also managed to catch up with
both staff and residents to gain their
feedback on this fantastic centre.
The library team (pictured L-R)
Sean Taylor, Linda Stockport, Sarah
McClennan, Lucie Kirton and Pamela
Stott has already had the opportunity
to welcome some residents to the
library and try out the self service
system for lending books.
Lucie said ‘The new library has all
the existing and a whole new range
of books available with the facility to
stock even more books than we could
at the old Roseberry site. We have a
range of activities planned for 2015
to encourage more early readers and
families to get into books’.
Speaking to family members Emma
Martin, Richard Hauxwell and their
son Zane, they loved the informality
of the venue and the ease of access,
particularly with a pushchair.
Emma said ‘My son Mason, aged 7,
has already had a trip around the
library with Roseberry School, he
absolutely loved it’.
The library also a suite of
computers, already in use when we
visited, there is access to support
services and guidance available if
needed for those new to technology.
BCN also had a whistle stop tour around 3 new building projects
underway in our community, which if all finished to the same high
standard as the library and customer service centre and Kennedy Gardens
will be truly superb.
Wharton Construction – New Build Marsh House Avenue (Old Campus Site)
St Michael’s RC Academy – New Build Beamish Road
Keepmoat – Thirteen Housing Development on The Causeway
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www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
‘The Thankful Solider’: An Original Northfield Production
On Wednesday 11th and Thursday 12th December, Northfield
showcased its original production of ‘The Thankful Soldier’.
Inspired by the Year 11 trip to see War Horse at The Lowry
Theatre in Salford, and to coincide with the World War One
commemorations, the play was written and devised by staff and
performed by Northfield School’s Drama Club.
England and Wales are home to the ‘Thankful Villages’ from
which all of their men returned from the war. Ralph McPherson
is a Thankful soldier who returns from war but is haunted by his
memories of loss.
With an audience of over 250 across the two shows, including
students, parents, staff, local residents and members of the British
Legion, the performers excelled in providing a sensitive and
poignant portrayal of characters and events during World War
One and the Christmas Day Truce. School also ran a free show
for senior citizens and guests from our local residential homes,
there was a poignant moment when, with the lights dimmed,
one elderly gentleman started singing ‘Silent Night’ – you simply
could have heard a pin drop in the audience, truly touching. Many
guests commented on the maturity and conviction of our young
players when depicting life during the war; they even received a
standing ovation with many a tearful eye! Northfield’s band closed
the evening in style playing festive tunes whilst guests helped
themselves to complimentary mince pies and beverages. All
proceeds from tickets sales were donated to The British Legion.
Robot Wars at
Northfield School
Northfield student Adam McCabe’s was recognised for his winning design
and proto type ‘VISBOT’ at the Regional Schools competition for Years
7 – 11 using Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills.
Competing against 29 other schools, Adam proved he has a vision for the
future as well as being able to recognise current needs in the community.
Adam said ‘There are a high number of students in school with visual
impairments; my idea was for a multi-functional robot that could act as a
guide around school, particularly for newer students who may not know
the school layout. VISBOT could also record and play back lessons, carry
some limited equipment and be a magnifier when needed.’
The school runs a STEM club every Monday and 13 year old Adam was
encouraged by teachers Cheryl Peskett and Hayley Paxton to take his ideas,
create a design and enter the regional competition. Cheryl said ‘Although
Adam only had a short time to work on his design her really deserved to
win he put lots of thought and effort into creating VISBOT’.
Adam needed to produce a CAD drawing on his design, then using the
laser cutter in the technology department, cut out and then assembled all of
the pieces to form his proto type machine, the rest is history – and what a
history well done Adam!
The prize for winning included the team from Robot Wars and the famous
‘Battleaxe’ visiting school and experiencing all the fun that you see on the
TV for real.
A superb result and well done Adam you’re a great ambassador for school
and for our community.
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
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www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Christmas in The Clarances
It hardly seems a year since the dreadful floods that hit Port Clarence in 2013 but the
community was inspired then and even more determined in 2014 to keep ‘Christmas in the
Clarences’ as a family event.
Santa was booked, the sleigh arrived and 150 children queued to meet the man himself.
Everyone was extremely patient and also enjoyed the whole range of activities that were
offered for all the families in the Port Clarence Resource Centre.
During 2013 Billingham Legacy Foundation organised the event with assistance from the
Clarences Residents Action Group. During 2014, CRAG have worked to grow their residents
committee and champion local issues such as access to transport, medical and dental services
for their residents, in what continues to be an socially isolated community.
For the 2014 Christmas in the Clarences event, CRAG were instrumental in ensuring the
grotto was ready for Santa’s arrival and elves on hand to ensure all the families had a wonderful
time. The families group spent many of their Tuesday morning sessions helping with
preparations too.
Billingham Legacy Foundation helped fund and to fundraise for this year’s event but special
thanks must also go to the following for their continued support for this event:
Wilton Group, Tesco, Churches Together, HEAL, Northfield School and Sports College,
Thirteen Group, McDonalds, Yarm Lions, The Old Butchers Shop and of course it wouldn’t
have happened without CRAG and the Families Group working together to bring it all
together on the day and Know How NE providing the venue – so a huge thank you to
everyone involved and especially Santa who found time again to visit Port Clarence..
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
9
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
10
Seniors Christmas
Over 140 of our senior citizens joined in the Christmas Celebrations with the ‘Pensioners
Party’ at St Cuthbert’s Church Hall. This event originally started by Roger Black, was
simply too good to lose when he retired in 2013. Billingham Legacy Foundation asked Jan
McDermott (Tastebuds in Billingham) if she and her team would be prepared to work their
wonders again to deliver a superb 3 course Christmas Meal, with all the trimmings to our
seniors. Mark Hodgson provided the entertainment with a range of 50’s, 60’s and 70’s music
– well the pictures tell the story! A truly superb evening and for some of our seniors – the
only evening of the year they venture out. BLF Supporters wish to thank all the volunteers
that helped make the evening so special including Jan and her team, Leanne Norman and the
McDonald’s team, Shani Corcoran and the Falck Safety Services team and Lesley Harrison
from TSB and the volunteers at St Cuthbert’s Church Hall. BLF Supporters are also grateful for
the financial help, or support with products GrowHow, Warburtons, KP Snacks, Lucite, TSB
Bank and of course you, our residents, who by attending our other Legacy Foundation events
during the year help us commit to this wonderful festive celebration.
JAN/FEB 2015
News in Brief
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Hereford Terrace, Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees, TS23 4AA
Telephone: 01642 564077
Nordic Focus Training Group Deliver
Facilities Management Course
Nordic Focus Training Group in conjunction with
Billingham Environmental link programme delivered a
facilities management course to a packed room of learners
looking at securing employment during 2015.
Over 30 people attended an informal group meeting at
BELP’s Head Office in Hereford Terrace to discuss future
career opportunities in Europe. Facilitating the discussion
was Ian Nelson; Business Development Manager from the
Nordic Focus Training Group, assisted by BELP’s in house
team and Mike Greener representing the National Careers
Service.
.Ian said: “I was so encouraged throughout the awareness
session by the positive attitude of those attending and
knowing they were keen to take advantage of the 1 week
training opportunity that was available really added value
for everyone. Having participated in the course we know
there is real potential for learners to move forward into
employment”
Nordic Focus Training Group, provide support with
interview techniques, CV writing and confidence building
as part of their programme of career focussed training
sessions. Learners are more readily matched to real
employment vacancies and employers see our candidates as
being ‘work ready’
With more than 25 years’ experience Nordic Focus
Training Group is an award winning organisation and
brings together ‘Nordic Pioneer’ and Focus Training &
Development’, both hugely successful and highly respected
national training providers, into a cohesive and strategic
partnership.
With offices in Darlington and London, NFTG provide
funded training and apprenticeships across a wide spectrum
of disciplines and market sectors. By working closely with
employers, the organisation seeks to understand specific
company needs and help co-ordinate the workforce
development through cost-effective training methods.
Jennifer, Director at BELP, said “The course was extremely
beneficial for all who attended. We all know it is imperative
that companies invest in young people to learn essential
skills ready for employment. With this investment and
career progression, businesses move into growth and
sector sustainability for future employment much quicker.
I have the greatest confidence that the course will enable
learners to gain the right skills and work ethic needed for
a seamless transition into the workplace where businesses
continue to be under pressure to deliver fast results in
today’s challenging economic climate. We look forward to
working in partnership with NFTG throughout 2015 and
are confident that we will see a successful and progressive
range of support services for the residents of Billingham.
Finally Ian Nelson of NFTG and Jennifer Franklin of
BELP would welcome any enquiries from businesses in
the community that would like to discuss Apprenticeships,
Training Opportunities and funding to support your
business. Ian is contactable on 01325 355633 or
07808627981 and email [email protected]
Jennifer is contactable on 01642 564077 or 07969694797
and email [email protected]
Mental Health
Outreach Group
Are you concerned about your mental health? Are you anxious, worried,
do you feel depressed or generally feel you have low self-esteem, then please,
don’t be alone, pop in and join us at one of our support groups sessions that
are held at East Avenue Community Centre every Thursday 1 pm – 3 pm.
This is a friendly self-help support group, you will receive a warm welcome
with clear, reliable and practical help regarding any mental health issues you
may be concerned about, with people who understand how you feel.
Just not sure if this is for you but want to know more, why don’t you call
Denis on 07977060958 or call us on 01642 564077 to for more information.
11
BELP is a not for profit organisation that
serves people in our community.
The Place in Billingham provides a full and inclusive range of services from
community activities through to education, training, work clubs and skills
development suitable for all ages and abilities as well as offering a range of
programmes to help people into employment and support healthy living.
The Place in Billingham also offers confidential advice and guidance in all
matters including debt, benefits and housing issues and offers a confidential
support service for anyone with drugs or alcohol problems.
More than just a community centre, The Place is where those who grace our
halls find friends and wider support. Mostly The Place is where we learn to share
our lives and develop the essence of our community.
WE DON’T JUST GET YOU TRAINED,
WE GET YOU INSPIRED.
We offer a range of classes which are chosen in keeping with community needs
and realistic job opportunities. The courses are reviewed constantly to meet the
changing demands and opportunities.
TRAINING COURSES AT THE HEREFORD CENTRE:
CSCS (construction)
Emergency First Aid in the workplace
Level 2 Food Hygiene
Basic Computing
Level 1 Computing
Level 1 and 2 Adult Health & Social Care Courses
Level 1 and 2 Child Health & Social Care Courses
Drugs & alcohol awareness
Mental Health awareness
Silver surfers (over 60’s I.T.courses)
Spring Jumble Sales
Are you having a New Year Clear
Out & would like to make yourself
some extra cash?
Let’s get back to basics with some
good old fashioned Jumble Sales
taking place at: The Hereford Centre
on Saturday 7th February 2015 from
10am to 2pm.
Low Grange Community Centre Saturday 7th March 2015 from 1pm to
4pm - Refreshments available.
£5 per table please call the Hereford
Centre to book on 01642 564077
Get on track with your
training for 2015
After all the highs of the festive season and the celebrations
of New Year, January is traditionally a time focus and plan for
the year ahead, so why not kick start your New Year with one of
our of our accredited training courses ? New courses have been
added for 2015 and, there has never been a better time to add
value to your skills that are sure to help you in your search for
employment!
Please call 01642 564077 for further information or pop into
our centre which is open Monday to Friday.
Further details on all course availability are also available via
our Job Club held every Tuesdays 9 am – 12.30 and Thursday’s
between 9 am - 3pm
CSCS, Customer Service, Employability, Facilities
Management, First Aid, Health & Safety, Health & Social Care,
IT Training... Let us help you get your training on track, we
look forward to seeing you at Hereford Terrace soon!
12
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Hooker & Young named as North Happy Christmas
Eastern Hairdresser of the Year from No.10
Eight year old Grace
Franklin was overjoyed
to receive a very special
Christmas card this year,
from the Prime Minister
himself.
Grace won a special
award earlier in the year
for all her endeavours
in fundraising for the
Royal British Legion so
was overjoyed when she
received this very special
card from No. 10!
Safely Delivered and
Home for Christmas
From left to right photo captions are;
Michael Berggren, Managing Director of Schwarzkopf Professional (Salon),
Jayne Lewis-Orr, Executive Director of Hairdressers Journal International,
Toni Stephenson of Hooker & Young and James Corden.
Toni Stephenson of Hooker & Young was named as North Eastern
Hairdresser of the Year 2014 at the British Hairdressing Awards
recently, which also celebrated its 30th anniversary.
Set in the luxurious Great Room of the Grosvenor House Hotel a
JW Marriot Hotel in London’s Park Lane, the brightest event in the
hairdressing calendar was not a night to miss. For Toni Stephenson,
it was a defining moment in her professional life when her name
was announced as the North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year 2014
by much loved television personality, James Corden.
Congratulations to Toni Stephenson and all the 2014 winners who
truly are the best of British
Hooker & Young, (Darlington and Wynyard)
New Domestic Abuse Support Centre
Opens its Doors in Stockton
Harbour’s new office is a safe, welcoming place where people can go
to receive confidential advice, help and support about domestic abuse.
Harbour will also offer support for those who perpetrate domestic
violence and abuse to enable them to be aware of thought processes,
change behaviour, reduce reoffending and improve the safety of others.
The charity also provides advice to those worried about a friend or
relative who they believe may be in an abusive relationship.
To contact Harbour, call 03000 20 25 25 or visit www.facebook.com/
harboursupportservices
STARTING SOON!
Princes Trust
THE PRINCE’S TRUST TEAM
Team Recruiting
Safely Delivered on Monday 17 November to Hazel and Stephen
Forrest, twins Elliott (weight 2.12) and Isaac (weight 5.5) – we’re glad
to say that Elliott put enough weight on to come home for Christmas.
Congratulations to you both.
STOCKTON
RIVERSIDE
COLLEGE
£15
per week
A NEW facility dedicated to supporting those living with
domestic abuse has opened on Bishopton Road in Stockton.
Harbour Support Services is the main provider of services for
those living with domestic abuse in Stockton-on-Tees. It offers
vital support to individuals and families by providing safe
accommodation, counselling services and practical support in
the community to women, men and children.
Domestic abuse is socially unacceptable. Everyone deserves to,
and should, live without fear.
EXPENSES
ON
ATTENDANCE
We are now recruiting for the new Prince’s Trust TEAMs starting January 26th in
Billingham.
It is an action packed 12 week personal development course for 16-25 year old from
any background.
No entry requirements and existing benefits are not affected. Young people can
also claim their travel and expenses back when undertaking this course, so start the
New Year as you mean to go on and contact Karen Allen on 07436795884 for more
details.
PL US
YOUR BUS FARE
REIMBURSED!
JOIN OUR TEAM AT STOCKTON
Are you 16−25 years old? Give yourself the best chance to move onto a career with the Prince’s Trust!
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Real Ale at The Green Hops
Neil Gray and his business partner James Nielsen
decided to put their love of real ales into a real business.
Having carefully researched the growing interest in
micro pubs year their combined experience gained at
the Catholic Club, they recently launched ‘The Green
Hops’ bar on Station Road in Billingham.
Taking over what was a derelict building left empty for
many years and able to recycle some of the carpet, tables
and chairs from the ‘Black Horse’ on The Green which
has been closed too.
Neil is pictured with staff members James and Tony
he stated ‘There is a real need for micro pubs like
The Green Hops where specials such as Hobgoblin,
River Catcher, Mileston Cupid and Double Maxim
are available and a host of other real ales to choose
from. We’re very grateful as a new business for the
help and support we’ve received from Frank at LWE,
particularly for the cellar works. Most importantly we
want Billingham to know we are here and open for
business.’
The Green Hops is open 1200 noon – 11 pm at 55 The
Green Billingham TS23 1EW Telephone 01642 205025
Woodcarving Club
Spreads its Roots
The Cleveland Carving Club commenced on the
4th September last year working out of St Cuthbert’s
Church Hall in Billingham. Over the last three
months the club has grown from strength to strength
in numbers and created an extremely friendly
environment for carvers to meet and practice their
craft.
The club currently has 26 members, including Barry
Howcroft who taught woodcarving in Redcar for
many years. One of his many pupils Peter Downham
was voted woodcarver of the year by Wood Carving
magazine. We also have some novices, who although
they only started with us in September, are already
producing quality pieces. Our club is affiliated to the
British Woodcarving Association and members can
attend meetings in other areas, there are currently 29
clubs nationally.
Cleveland Carving Club meet at St Cuthbert’s Church
Hall on Thursday afternoons 1 pm – 4 pm, new carvers
will receive a warm welcome. Please do call in and give
this wonderful craft a try.
If you want to find out more about our group, please
call Vince O’Donnell on 07845 751555 or email
[email protected]
If you have news stories, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunity newspaper.co.uk
13
14
Whats On
Alzheimers Drop In
Monday 2nd February
Alzheimer’s drop in at Yarm Library
from 1-3pm. If you or someone you
know is suffering from Alzheimer’s pop
in for a chat and some support on the
first Monday of every month. Price: Free.
Dear BCN
Please would you find space in your
newspaper so that I can say a huge thank
you to both of my boys, Michael Hall
and Lee Gatley- Hall for making me an
exceptionally proud mother. They have
both worked so hard to achieve their
degrees Michael received his degree
Performance and Production in 2013
and Lee with a Law Degree 2014. Born
in Port Clarence, they both went to
High Clarence Primary School and have
excelled with the help and support of
their partners Kay and Kim, Grandma
Katy, Helen Woodhouse and special
thanks to their dad Colin Gatley. My
heart is just bursting with pride and I
want to tell the world
Sincerely, Jayne Hector
Have your say
on future school
admission policy
Parents are being given a chance to
have their say on proposed admission
arrangements for community, voluntary
controlled primary and secondary
schools across Stockton Borough.
Stockton Council has drawn up the
proposals following a Scrutiny Review by
the Council’s Children and Young People
Select Committee. Views are being
sought on:
• Changes to the School Admissions
Code
• The proposed scheme for coordinating admission arrangements and
timetable for the school year 2016/17
• The proposed admission numbers
for Primary and Secondary schools for
September 2016
• The proposed admission zones
changes to primary schools in Ingleby
Barwick
• The proposed admission zone
arrangements for secondary schools in
the South of the Borough
• The proposed Admission Policy for
2016/17
On 4 December it was agreed to start
a consultation process on the new
proposals which starts today, Monday
15 December and runs until Friday 13
February.
To view the consultation document in
full please visit www.stockton.gov.uk/
schooladmissionconsultation
Views and comments on the
consultation document can be fed
back in writing to School Admissions,
Stockton Borough Council, Municipal
Buildings, Church Road, Stockton on
Tees, TS18 1XE or by email to school.
[email protected]
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Churches Together View from the Vicarage
Firstly, a very happy New Year to all in our wonderful
community - I know we in the Churches Together are
excited about the opportunities this year will bring to
enrich and strengthen our life together, I hope you are
too!
Early in the new school term, my colleague Laura
and I were talking with the head teacher at one of our
primary schools, and we were thinking about how
parishes could make the whole ‘church’ thing more
accessible, easier to dip into, and welcoming. We
thought about the sorts of things that people might
like to be part of - people of all ages, though we were
thinking especially about young people, since we were
in a school at the time.
We were very excited to share some new things that
are starting very soon in our parish - and particularly
something we’re doing especially for children and
families, called “Messy Church”. It’s going to happen
once a month at the Clarences Community Centre (on
the first Sunday of each month, starting 1st February)
and once a month at St Cuthbert’s Church (on the
third Sunday of each month, starting 15th February)
- both from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. There’ll be craft
activities, some simple worship - singing and a story and then there’ll be food and drink to share. We know
from people who’ve run similar things elsewhere that
it’s a load of fun, and people of all ages love it. It would
be lovely to welcome as many people as possible to join
in with that and have fun together - so do come along even if you just fancy the cuppa and a biccie!
As we start this New Year, we want to think about
how all the churches can work together for the blessing
of Billingham and the surrounding area. There will
be a special service on Sunday 18th January at St
Columba’s Church (Marsh House Avenue) at 3pm,
where we think about our life together under God.
Again, it would be great to see loads of people there
and share thoughts about how we can work together
through faith with Jesus to make a positive difference
in our community.
With every good wish and blessings for 2015, Revd
Bill Braviner.
Churches together Community Christmas Day meal
Our first Community Christmas Day Meal was a
resounding success. There were many contributing
factors that enabled the meal to be such a success.
Firstly we had a great team of people who met
once a month from May 2014 onwards to help in
the planning and preparation of the meal.
Individuals and local companies were
instrumental in supporting this event by donating
either their time or by donations to ensure the
success of the day for which we are extremely
grateful. Through their kindness we were able to
provide a freshly prepared 4 course meal including
chocolates!!
We would like to thank the following companies
& individuals for their donations:
John B Smith Ltd Timber Merchants Stockton
on Tees
Smart Office Systems Gateshead
Bytheways Computer & Officer Supplies
Stockton on Tees
Conocco Phillips Seal Sands
Falck UK Haverton Hill Billingham
Coop Funeral Care Billingham/Stockton
Members of Billingham Masonic Hall
Roberts Family Butchers Billingham
B.E.L.P. (Billingham Environmental Link
Programme)
TFM Radio – Toy Appeal Stockton on Tees
TSB Bank Billingham
School House Recruitment Stockton
Adam Featherstone Decorator Billingham
Steve Mason Fruiterer Billingham
Asda Billingham
Tesco Billingham
Staff at Pentland Primary School Billingham
Colourscreen Teesside Ltd Stockton on Tees
Abigail Walker & Friends Billingham
Members of Billingham Team Parish
We would like to further thank individuals for
their donations but wish to remain anonymous.
We were, through the many generous donations,
able to provide everyone who attended the meal
with a bag of gifts to take away with them too.
Lynne Smith had lovingly made and decorated
individual Christmas cakes to gift to people which
were gratefully appreciated by the recipients.
We had a whole host of kind people ‘Elves’ who
were generous in donating their time in the lead up
to the meal and in assisting in serving of the meal
on Christmas Day - whose help was invaluable
and ensured the meal was fabulous success.
Steve & Kate Rose (Catalyst Stockton) together
with Jenny, Elizabeth & Grace Franklin offered
tremendous support too. Grace Franklin (aged 8)
also entertained us with some songs which she sang
beautifully. Rev Bill Braviner and family kept us
entertained with a Christmas quiz and festive songs.
The Billingham Team Parish Community
Christmas Day Meal will now become an annual
event to be held in St Aidan’s church hall. We would
like to emphasise that this meal is open for all
people in the community of Billingham and anyone
is welcome to attend. We are able to continue to
provide this meal (which is free of charge) due to
the kindness bestowed by individuals and local
companies.
We have already taken bookings for this year’s
Christmas Meal! Bookings can be made through the
Parish Office 01642 554929
If you would like to help in any way for our next
Christmas Day Meal please just ask. No offer of help
will be turned away!
If you have news stories, please email us at:
[email protected]
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
15
SRC Bede Sixth Form College: 01642 373250
Live gig puts students to the test
Students got a taste of life in
the recording industry when
they were given the chance to
help produce a live DVD for
one of Teesside’s biggest upand-coming bands.
The Media, Film and Music
Technology students, from SRC
Bede Sixth Form, took their
places on the cameras, sound
and lighting, at the live gig by
Cattle and Cane.
The band which regularly
sells out venues, and is rapidly
gaining national recognition,
performed a special one-off
show at Wynyard Hall chapel,
as part of their debut album.
And the SRC Bede Sixth Form
students were invited along to
help capture the moment.
“It was quite daunting at
first, but you just have to take
confidence in your own ability,”
said Connor Alderson, 17 of
Stockton.
Emily Bean, 17, of
Bishopsgarth, added: “It gave
us practical experience of
something we have learnt in
the classroom.” The difference
is, she said, there was no room
Cattle and Cane performing at Wynyard Hall.
for errors.
Media student Sydney Gardner,
17, from Billingham, said: “When
it’s your own work you don’t think
about messing up as you can always
start again, but when you are in a real
situation you have to get it right first
time.”
And, with 12 cameras trained on
the band, Dylan Nicholson, 17, from
Fairfield, said: “It was fun but it was
also challenging at some points.” He
explained the fact that it wasn’t just
a College project was in everyone’s
mind.
OPEN
The live DVD will now form part
of Cattle and Cane’s album release
package, produced by SRC Bede
Sixth Form’s own Section Head for
Creative Media, Languages and
Sport, Patrick Jordan.
With the Billingham Sixth Form
College’s film and media teacher
Matt Fodor and Arts Technical
Assistant, John Kirkbride, directing
the DVD, it seemed like the perfect
opportunity to get the students on
board.
Patrick said: “We regularly have
bands in the College to work
EVENING
TUES FEB 3 / 6pm- 8pm
Marsh House Ave. Billingham. TS23 3HB
with the students, but this was our
first off-site recording. There is
something about doing something
live that throws you in at the deep
end.”
Matt added: “It was really exciting
for the students who worked
professionally, showing their own
initiative and suggesting shots that
you wouldn’t necessarily expect of
students at this level.”
Music Technology student, Callum
Rattray, 17, of Stockton, said: “It was
a long day and quite tiring but we
learnt a lot from it.”
www.stockton.ac.uk/bede
• GREAT RANGE OF AS & A LEVELS • 100% PASS RATE IN 20 SUBJECTS • FREE TRAVEL • OFSTED GOOD
Students pictured outside college left to right: Sydney Gardner, Connor Alderson,
Dylan Nicholson, Emily Bean and Callum Rattray.
Improve your career chances
UNEMPLOYED young people are being given the chance to help
improve their career chances with the launch of a new free course.
The Prince’s Trust Team programme, delivered by Stockton Riverside
College, helps those, aged 16 to 25, to build the confidence and skills
they need to help them find a job or move into education.
The 12-week programme, which is now coming to Billingham, will
see participants take part in a series of challenges and tasks, including a
residential, work placement and community project.
Those who successfully complete the course can walk away with a
recognised qualification in Employment, Teamwork and Community
Skills.
If you would like to get involved the next course is due to start at
Old Billingham Community Centre on Monday January 26.
For details or to take part call Karen Allen on 07436 795 884.
APPLY NOW for SEPT 2015
Award glory for IT
student Yacouba
RESILIENT seems a fitting word to describe Stockton
student Yacouba Traore.
When he moved to the UK just three and a half years ago
the teenager spoke very little English.
Taken in by a family in Billingham he remembers: “It was
like a different planet.”
Originally from the Ivory Coast he said his life couldn’t
have been more different to the one he had left behind in the
French speaking West African country.
Determined to make the most of his new start Yacouba
signed up to an ESOL (English for speakers of other
languages) course at Stockton Riverside College.
And inspired by the many books and computing equipment
available to him the then 16-year-old was quickly picking up
the language.
“The education system was very different to what I was
used to,” he said. “In the beginning it was like dreaming.”
But with a strong support network behind him Yacouba
flourished, progressing rapidly through his studies, even
developing the confidence to embark on a computing course.
Today he is working towards his Level 3 Computing
Practitioners qualification at Stockton Riverside College,
and predicted to gain distinctions, he plans to continue his
studies having received three university offers.
Now awarded the Resilience Award at Teesside’s first Black
History Youth Awards, Yacouba is being held up as role
model to young people.
Nominating him for the award Stockton Riverside College’s
career’s advisor Carol Race said: “Yacouba has overcome a lot
to become a valued member of the College community.
“He has represented the College as an ambassador and he is
a positive role model for any young person.”
The Billingham student was among ten young people, aged
11 to 24, to receive awards at the prestigious ceremony hosted
by Teesside University.
The event was organised by Stockton based Cultures CIC to
launch and fundraise for their new mentoring programme.
The scheme, titled “It’s You and Me”, is aimed at supporting
disadvantaged black youths in the community, recognising
their achievements.
It also aims to give extra support to young people by
opening doors to new experiences, which otherwise might
not be possible.
Local businesses from the region sponsored the event, with
awards celebrating a range of skills and disciplines from
excellence in arts and sports to academic achievement and
contribution to communities.
Delighted to have his efforts recognised Yacouba said: “I
was very surprised and I feel very proud. Coming to Stockton
Riverside College has given me a lot of confidence and
encouragement, along with my family here and the support I
have received.”
www.stockton.ac.uk/src-bede
16
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Education
JAN/FEB 2015
St Michael’s News
St Michael’s Academy award winners
A COURAGEOUS teenager who lost his mother
to cancer has been recognised for his academic
achievements and for raising thousands of pounds for
charity.
Ross Graham, of Billingham, was presented with the
Tom Brown Award for Courage over adversity at the
St Michael’s Catholic Academy annual prize giving
ceremony.
Ross, 16, sat his GCSE exams knowing his mother,
Helen, 51, was critically ill with skin cancer.
Helen, who had been fighting cancer for five years
but was only told the condition was incurable in
August 2013, died shortly after he completed his final
exam.
As well as studying Ross, who achieved 11 GCSEs,
including six A*s and As, has also dedicated his time to
helping raise more than £11,500 for MacMillan Nurses,
with a ten and a half hour coast-to-coast cycle ride and
a school cancer awareness day, to keep a promise he
made to his mum before she died.
“I think my mum would have been very proud
tonight,” said Ross, who is currently taking A level
physics, maths, geography and psychology, as well as
studying for his private pilots licence.
“I promised that I would study hard for my exams
and I always kept my promises to her.”
Ross was presented with his award by Christopher
and Jacinta Brown, whose son Tom, 16, a former pupil
at St Michael’s Academy, was tragically killed in a road
accident in April 2013.
Mr Brown, who designed the award depicting four
books with titles Look to The Future, Tom Brown’s
Schooldays, Lasting Impressions and Don’t Look Back,
also presented Ross with a cheque for £50.
“Ross should be extremely proud of what he has
managed to achieve,” said Mr Brown.
“Although in many ways I would prefer not to be
handing him this award it really is in recognition of all
of his hard work and keeping his promise to his mum.
It also helps to keep Tom’s name alive in the memory
of St Michael’s.”
The award was one of dozens to be presented at the
celebration event, hosted by St Michael’s head teacher
Andrew Ramsey, recognising achievements and
endeavour in a wide range of subject areas.
Congratulating the students Mr Ramsey said: “What
these students have achieved over the past five years
has been immense.
“They have all shared the good times and the bad,
happiness and sorrow and everyone has gone on their
own journey of change but they will always be a part of
St Michael’s.”
Trophies and cups were presented for special awards
including academic excellence, strength and character,
outstanding GCSE results, citizenship, sport, music,
courage and contribution to school life and each
student was presented with a Destiny Star by guest
speaker and director of the Carmel Education Trust
Maria Matthews.
The final trophy of the evening, The Good
Shepherd Award, was presented to Jordan Dixon,
16, of Billingham, in memory of St Michael’s special
education needs co-ordinator Kathryn Taylor who
passed away in January.
Jordan, 16, who helped raise £400 for Mrs Taylor
after she retired in 2013 due to ill health, was also
praised for his friendliness and compassion to others
in school.
The award, in the shape of a sheep, a favourite animal
of Mrs Taylor, was presented by Martin Taylor and her
daughters Anna Pickover and Julia Mitchinson.
“I was very surprised to be given this award,” said
Jordan, who is studying A level sport.
“I remember Mrs Taylor very fondly and feel very
honoured to be the first student to receive a trophy in
her name.”
Matthew Bowman, 16, of Billingham, receives the Trevor Gaynor
Award for Cricket from Mr Gaynor’s son Paul
Ross Graham, 16, of Billingham, receives the Tom Brown Award from
Christopher and Jacinta Brown
Results:
Subject awards
History: Orlagh Husband
Textiles: Helen Fisher
Food: Claire Devlin
Graphics: Sean Flaherty
Resistant Materials: Savannah Lindo
Art: Martha Teeley
ICT: Jamie Hunt
Maths: Charlotte Morgan
Physics: Isobel Morgan
Biology: Lucy Jones
Media Studies: Lewis Taylor
RE: Joe Nichol
Geography: Kaitlyn Cross
Drama: Grace Allen
Business: Luke Cumiskey
English Literature: Connor Wilson
English Language: Josh Williams
Special Awards
Edna Early Award for Worship: Matthew Bowman
Trevor Gaynor Award for French: Beth Hall
Martin Wing Award for Music: Adam Murray
Johnson Matthey Award for Chemistry: Zoe McLone
Lew Milburn Award: Tia Wills
Trevor Gaynor Award for Cricket: Matthew Bowman
Maureen Jamieson Award: Kelsey Main
SRC Bede College Award: Beth Hall
Stockton Sixth Form Award: Daniel Millington
SVP Award: Joe Howard
St Michael’s Award: Bethany Kelly
Peter Robinson Award: Chloe Thompson
Alan Parker Award: James Thompson
David Armstrong Award for Contribution to School Life: Joe Brady
Mandy Bell Award: Michael Walls
Shaun Lowrey Award: Emma Scott
Nicholas Welch Trophy: Bethany Kelly
Tom Brown Award: Ross Graham
The Good Shepherd Award: Jordan Dixon
St Michael’s Academy award winners
The Good Shepherd Award, L-R, Anna Pickover , Jordan Dixon, 16,
of Billingham, Martin Taylor, Julia Mitchinson
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
17
Education
Northfield News
Anti-bullying Week
Every year Northfield raises awareness of
anti-bullying with a week of celebratory fundraising activities. This year’s theme was ‘Heroes’.
Whether they are Super Heroes, Military
Heroes, Everyday Heroes, Fundraising Heroes
and, of course, Baking Heroes!
Throughout the week, students participated in
activities in morning form time and assemblies
raising awareness about the ‘role’ we can play in
others’ lives through support and good-nature.
Our peer-supporters took the lead in running
a variety of fund-raising activities including:
a superhero cake raffle; guess the number
of Heroes in a tin; a blue sweetie hamper;
gingerbread man challenge, and the SLT
superhero Bake Off.
We raised a total of £323.02 during the week
with a final total being determined after a nonuniform day during the final week of term. All
proceeds will go to the Children in Need charity.
The Young
Americans 2015
Year 7
Foodbank
Collection
This term, Northfield’s Year 7 have been hard
at work collecting non-perishable food items to
donate to the Billingham Foodbank. There has
been a competition between the tutor groups
to see who can collect the most tins; with the
winning tutor group and second place winning
a prize.
All tutor groups have risen to the challenge
with the top three tutor groups being 7TD, 7TE
and 7TI; bringing in a consecutive 80, 261 and
286 tins! These amounts are truly staggering
and show the commitment and dedication of
the year group to supporting local charities. The
total amount of tins raised is an astounding:
990 tins! This amount has smashed the previous
two records set by the current Year 9 and 8 year
groups.
All pupils got involved in collecting tins
and went above and beyond to ensure a large
amount was raised. Staff also became actively
involved in this cause and raised 32 tins via a
box in the staffroom. The total amount raised
would not have been possible without the
outstanding commitment of a small group of
pupils, who went above and beyond the one
tin they were asked to donate. These pupils
include: Tamzin Canham, Anya Taylor, Maya
Kaur, Ethan Ivory Lewis, Chloe Stones, Kaitlyn
Hunter, Ellena Cornforth and Mia Roach.
Maya Kaur, Joint Head of the Year 7 Student
Council, even contacted local businesses in the
community to seek out their support in our
cause. She alone donated over 150 tins to our
total; this epitomises Maya’s dedicated attitude
towards her school life and further enforces
what a positive role model she is to all pupils.
Northfield School are very excited to announce that
The Young Americans are, for the second time, working
with students in Billingham, delivering performance
education workshops to students of all ages.
The Young Americans are a group of over 250
Performing Arts students from 39 states in America
and 8 countries around the world. 50 are on tour in
Britain and are joining us at Northfield School in March
2015 to deliver Performance Outreach workshops,
culminating in a two hour performance featuring our
students. Their mission is to support the Creative Arts
in schools and to provide ‘experiences and tools to
students that yield individual, personal growth and
understanding.’
Last term, Northfield were extremely lucky to have
Kjartan Pokitt visit the school. Mr Pokitt is the author
of the ‘Murderous Maths’ book series. We welcomed
over 100 primary school students into Northfield for
the afternoon, along with all the Year 7 students, for
an exciting presentation that will not be forgotten for a
long time.
He presented an energetic performance involving
maths tricks that baffled Year 7 and primary students.
Everyone was highly engaged and learnt several
interesting facts about mathematics. The students left
the event in awe and wanted to learn more.
Murderous Maths
Careers and Guidance
On Tuesday 11th November, all Year 11 students participated in a morning event involving 8 local Further
Education Colleges. The purpose of the event was to provide information to all students about the wide range
of establishments and courses that are available to them in the local area. Students gained a lot of information
from this event which, together with their one to one careers interviews, will help them make good decisions
about their future education.
On Thursday 20th November, a group of 50 Year 10 students took part in an event which was run in
conjunction with the local branch of Barclays Bank. The aim of the event was to improve students’ Life skills
and their abilities to deal with money. Phil Kirby, who manages the Billingham branch of Barclays Bank, led
the afternoon session which made students think about how they came across to potential employees both
verbally and through body language. They also had their knowledge of finance tested and worked on case
studies about teenagers and how they budgeted when dealing with money.
If you have stories about your college or school, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunity newspaper.co.uk
18
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Business
MBE for Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies’
Subhash Chaudhary in New Years’ Honours List
FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies announced that
Subhash Chaudhary, Director of Strategic Projects, has been
awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours.
Subhash joined ICI (a predecessor business to FUJIFILM
Diosynth Biotechnologies) as an engineer in 1974. During his
career he has worked on many innovative engineering projects,
including the design and operation of the largest continuous
fermenter ever attempted. This technology formed the
foundation of the processes which the company operates today
in the contract manufacture of biologic drugs for biotechnology
and pharmaceutical companies worldwide, and has been
instrumental in the company’s growth on the Billingham site
over the last 15 years.
On hearing about his award Subhash said: “I feel very
honoured to be recognised in such a prestigious way. The
honour is a testament not just to myself, but to the efforts and
work of a great many colleagues with whom I have worked
over the years. The team at Fujifilm Billingham is responsible
for developing and bringing to market new medical therapies,
which make a real difference to people’s lives worldwide, and I
am very proud to be part of that team”.
Throughout his career Subhash has been a strong supporter
for industry in the north-east. A founder member of the
North East Process Industry Cluster’s (NEPIC) Leadership
Team, he is a familiar figure around the north-east industrial
scene and has supported many North-East and UK initiatives.
He was recognised by the IChemE with the Donald Medal
in 2003 and more recently made a Fellow of the Institute of
Chemical Engineering (FIChemE), recognising him as ‘an
engineering professional of distinction, making significant
contribution to the profession, demonstrating technical
excellence and leadership of your peers’. Subhash was also
recognised by NEPIC in January 2013 in their Annual Awards
for Outstanding Contribution to the sector.
Steve Bagshaw, CEO of FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies
said “I am delighted that Subhash’s hard work and dedication
have been recognised with this honour. His engineering and
management skills have contributed not only to Fujifilm’s
success, but he has helped put the North East on the global
biotech map and in the history books, creating jobs, building
value and laying a true foundation for our future prosperity as a
sustainable bio-manufacturing business”.
A Better Connected North as PD Ports opens new Rail Terminal
PD Ports has welcomed the arrival of the first Freightliner train at Teesport’s new intermodal rail
terminal as part of a £3M investment to improve connectivity.
The first train arrived in November, signifying the creation of new intermodal connections from Teesport
to Felixstowe and Southampton. Opportunities for the establishment of further new routes to Scotland,
the Midlands and the North West are expected in line with market demand.
The establishment of the new rail terminal, built by Owen Pugh Construction, is the latest major phase
in PD Ports’ wider on-going investment at Teesport and follows on from the £16.7M container terminal
expansion development in 2011. This investment further cements Teesport’s position as the UK’s leading
provider of portcentric logistics, offering greater operational flexibility and improved efficiencies for
customers.
“We are delighted to announce that the new rail terminal is now fully operational,” said David Robinson,
PD Ports’ Group CEO. “We have invested significantly in expanding the intermodal services available at
the Port and the arrival of Freightliner provides a greater level of service options, as well as improving our
portcentric capability for our customers.
“There has been a significant amount of press coverage lately centred round a better connected north
including greater use of our rail network and waterways to move goods around the country. Our facility
at Teesport has the potential to further attract logistics activity to sites with efficient low cost transport
networks and we will continue to work hard to see this come to fruition,” concluded Mr Robinson.
“To be competitive in UK container transport, rail requires well-positioned, high quality terminals and
this site delivers both,” said Keith Gray, Commercial Director at Freightliner Limited. “The new rail facility
meets Freightliner’s requirements and the high standards demanded by our customers. We are delighted
with the successful commencement of services to and from Teesport and would like to thank the team at
PD Ports. We look forward to working with them in developing further services.”
Robin Armstrong, Group Logistics Director at Owen Pugh, said: “We are delighted to have completed
the work to develop the new intermodal rail terminal at Teesport on behalf of PD Ports.
“Owen Pugh is highly experienced in working on technically challenging projects and this scheme,
which involved the provision of a reinforced concrete pavement equivalent to the length of five football
pitches, certainly showcased the team’s full capabilities and provided us with an opportunity to strengthen
our position as a leading main contractor.
“We’re proud to have played a part in this important regional scheme which and we look forward to
working with the client again in the very near future.”
PD Ports raises thousands in support of Butterwick Hospice
The people in the picture are L-R – Patricia Boynton Corporate Partnership Executive at Butterwick Hospice,
Kirsten Donkin – PR and Communications Manager
at PD Ports and Emma Storey – Events Fundraiser at
Butterwick Hospice
Over £10,000 has been raised by Middlesbrough-based
PD Ports in support of the Butterwick Hospice.
The money was raised following this year’s Great North
Run, one of the world’s largest half marathons, which saw
more than 20 port employees take part. This is the third
consecutive year PD Ports staff have braved the 13.1 mile
race in support of the Hospice.
With sponsorship from the runners’ friends and
families as well as donations from PD Ports’ customers
and suppliers the team raised almost £10K.
For over three years, PD Ports has supported the
Teesside-based charity through fundraising as well as
taking part in many Hospice events. During this time
the company has raised tens of thousands of pounds in
support of the invaluable work they undertake.
Kirsten Donkin, PR and Communications Manager at
PD Ports, commented: “Unfortunately, at some point in
our lives many of us will rely on precious services like
those provided by the Butterwick Hospice. On-going
support through fundraising is vital to the Hospice’s
existence and at PD Ports we are very proud to play our
part.
“I am delighted to see that the team have managed
to raise almost £10,000 through their hard work and
dedication. Everyone that took part in the Great North
Run showed tremendous strength and determination. I’d
like to thank everyone for their participation.”
Patricia Boynton, Corporate Partnership Executive at
Butterwick Hospice, said: “This is an amazing effort from
the team at PD Ports. We pride ourselves on creating
strong relationships with local businesses and are pleased
that PD Ports have given us such continued support
throughout the years.”
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Business
Artistic Amelia cites respect
as the key to a better world
A superb picture showing 11 year old Amelia Oyston’s heartfelt hope
for a better world has landed her prime position on a calendar that will
be delivered to thousands of homes shortly.
Amelia’s colourful illustration calling for greater respect for each other
and the planet earned her coveted front page status on the Community
Calendar, produced by some of the biggest industrial companies in the
area.
Firms at Wilton, Billingham and North Tees ask primary schools
around the sites to submit artwork based on a different theme each year,
with 2015’s being “The World We Would Like To Live In”.
Judges picked out 11-year-old Amelia’s work as the best of those
submitted by children at 11 primary schools bordering the sites. The
St Joseph’s Primary School pupil’s work also illustrates February in the
calendar.
A launch event, at Middlesbrough FC’s Riverside Stadium, was
attended by more than 120 pupils, parents and teachers as well as special
guests Gruffalo and Mouse from the ever-popular book The Gruffalo.
The picture shows Yr 6 teacher Mrs Chelsea Francis, Ameila and
Mayor Cllr Mrs Barbara Inman
Everyone who took part received a prize.
Stockton Mayor, Councillor Mrs Barbara Inman, presented Amelia
with a £50 voucher and the school, at Low Grange Avenue, received
£300.
She said: “It was a tremendous piece of work and who could argue with
the sentiments expressed by Amelia including no more war, starvation,
deforestation or animal cruelty.”
Twelve major industrial companies across Teesside financially
supported the calendar. They are Greenergy at North Tees; SABIC
UK Petrochemicals, Huntsman, CropEnergies Ensus, Lotte Chemical
UK, BOC, Northumbrian Water, Sembcorp and Falck Fire Services at
Wilton plus GrowHow, Lucite International and Fujifilm Diosynth at
Billingham. The production is also supported by Redcar and Cleveland
Council, Stockton Council, Cleveland Emergency Planning Unit, the
Teesside emergency services, the Environment Agency and the Health
and Safety Executive.
Well done Amelia!
19
Town Centre
Update
from Tony Donnelly,
Town Centre Manager, St.Modwen
Firstly, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New
Year. I hope everyone has enjoyed the festive season with
family and friends.
December at Billingham Town Centre has been full
of festive fun. Billingham Town Council’s Traditional
Christmas Event was a great success, with many people
from the local community joining the celebrations and
enjoying the delicious range of food on offer. Thankfully,
the rain stayed away and we were lucky to have such
unseasonably good weather. Many thanks to the Town
Council for organising such a fantastic event.
Santa’s Grotto was extremely popular. In just five days,
almost 800 children received a free Christmas gift. This
was a considerable increase on previous years and it was
very pleasing to see so many local families enjoying seeing
Father Christmas in the town centre.
We now turn our attention to 2015. The purchase of
Billingham Town Centre, by the UK’s leading regeneration
specialist St.Modwen, was highlighted on the front page of
the last edition, and it is really encouraging to see support
from the local community. This support is important as we
work towards revitalising the town centre.
We continue to develop our plans to deliver an improved
shopping and leisure experience at Billingham. We are
spending a considerable amount of time working with
local businesses and stakeholders to gather their views and
better understand their needs and requirements.
I look forward to sharing our plans with you all and
keeping you updated on our ongoing work. I am genuinely
excited about the future for Billingham, and hope that you
are too.
Here’s to a healthy and prosperous 2015!
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
20
Business
Vopak contract win for Cleveland
Fire Brigade Risk Management
Cleveland Fire Brigade’s growing risk
management company has won a three year
contract to provide round-the-clock emergency
support at Vopak’s Teesside Terminal at Seal Sands.
CFB Risk Management will provide 24/7
emergency response and crisis management
support, incident command and control training
and exercising and a stand-by emergency control
centre (ECC) in the event of a major incident.
Royal Vopak is the world’s largest independent
liquid bulk tank storage service provider by
capacity, specialising in the storage and
handling of oil products, liquid chemicals and
gasses. The company operates 80 terminals in
28 countries with a combined storage capacity
of 33.5 million cbm, with another 4.5 million
cbm under development, to be added by 2017.
The majority of its customers are companies
operating in the oil, chemicals and gas sector.
The contract is the latest in a series won by
CFB Risk Management, the Community Interest
Company (CIC) set up in 2011 to provide high
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE
Competitive rates, easy in/out terms
For further information please
contact Gavin on
01642 533089 or [email protected]
Old Billingham Business Centre
1 Chapel Road, Billingham, TS23 1EN
- Hartlepool Office
!"##$%&'"#($%)%*+,"-(%../%"0%'1234+"0(5%'-5%+(61#'2(5%7$%23(%84#"9"24+0%:(61#'2"4-%;1234+"2$%'-5%"0%'1234+"0(5
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quality and cost effective risk management services
to the high hazard private sector.
The first company of its kind to be set up in the UK
by a Fire Authority, CFB Risk Management expects
turnover to be more than £2m in the next financial
year.
The range of specialist services it provides to help
high hazard industries protect personnel, assets
and avoid costly disruption to production includes
fire safety management, emergency planning, fire
engineering, emergency response and training and
exercising.
“We see this latest contract as another major vote
of confidence in the services we are providing to
industry and that our expertise and experience is
being recognised and valued,” said Gary Cawley,
Technical Director, CFB Risk Management.
Ian Cochrane, Managing Director of Vopak
Terminals UK Ltd, said: “Vopak Terminal Teesside
is delighted that we have reached an agreement with
CFBRM for the provision of these critical services.
Safety is Vopak’s first priority and being able to
team up with CFBRM whose skill and expertise is
internationally renowned is very pleasing.”
CFB Risk Management has invested heavily
in state-of-the-art equipment, facilities and staff
training. The latest investment of £100,000 has
created a state-of-the-art Incident Command &
Crisis Management Training Facility at its Learning
and Development Centre in Teesside which is open
to industries operating in the UK, Europe and the
Middle East.
It includes the world’s first integrated Training &
Exercise System in an exclusive deal with strategic
partners VectorCommand and includes four fully
equipped sector command rooms, an incident
command suite and Emergency Control Centre.
The level of interest was so high for an initial Open
Day at the facility that a further two events were
held to meet the demand, three more are planned
for early December and more will follow. The
Open Days give industry-leaders the chance to see
the facilities and learn at first hand how CFB Risk
Management can help to deal with every level of an
incident from operationally and tactically to strategic
long-term planning.
“Delegates from more than 30 blue-chip
companies attended our first Open Days and the
feedback has been exceptionally positive,” said Gary
Cawley. “They are helping us to win contracts by
demonstrating our expertise and the decades of
experience we have built up in one of the largest
clusters of high-hazard industry in Europe.”
The company now has one of the largest COMAH
(Control of Major Accident Hazards) complicit
workforces in the UK with the skills and competence
to work in a multiplicity of high hazard situations. It
employs more than 30 full-time staff plus a further
150 part-time skilled support staff and has a bank of
500 more who are available when needed.
CFB Risk Management has contracts in place
with major blue-chip companies in the oil and gas,
nuclear and petrochemical sectors across the UK and
a number of significant developments in the Middle
East and Europe are at an advanced stage.
All CFB Risk Management profits go into
community projects that improve safety for
thousands of families in the Tees area.
“Every contract that we win is specifically tailored
to the individual company so our bank of knowledge
and experience is always growing and improving,”
said Gary Cawley.
Details of CFB Risk Management’s services are
available from 01429 874088 and at
www.cfbriskmanagement.com
JAN/FEB 2015
Cleveland
pOLICE update
Inspector
Chris
Stoddart
Billingham
Neighbourhood
Inspector
Happy New Year and I hope you all enjoyed
the festive period with family and friends.
For the financial year to date at the end of
December 2014, Stockton Local Police Authority
was showing a crime reduction of -2.2% and
reduction in anti-Social behaviour of -4.1% when
compared to the same time last year. What this
means in real terms is 169 less victims of crime
and a big reduction, some 419, reported incidents
of anti-social behaviour.
However during the last month your
Neighbourhood team have been dealing with
a number of crime patterns that have brought
about a number of arrests. The offences affecting
Billingham have been house burglaries; please
remember that crime prevention advice is
available by contacting 101 or speak to one of
our patrolling officers around Billingham – we
are here to help you stay safe and secure and this
advice is free, so please do contact us.
I would ask all of our residents and businesses
to report and share any information if you believe
you can help us identify those who may be
responsible for crimes or anti-social behaviour.
Your neighbourhood team will use your
information (which can be given anonymously)
in order that the offender(s) can be brought to
justice.
We continue to work closely with our partners
to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and
welcome ideas for community engagement.
Please do contact the Neighbourhood team with
any constructive ideas.
We ask that you please continue working with
your Neighbourhood Team in order that we
can deal with issues in your ward areas whilst
enabling us to target offenders and locations
that are identified. We welcome your support in
helping us to help you.
Thank you Acting Inspector Chris Stoddart
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Arts
21
Whats on at The Forum
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Based on the picture book written and illustrated by Judith Kerr.
Adapted for the stage with songs and lyrics by David Wood.
The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it
possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!
This delightful family show is packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and
clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of this classic tale of teatime mayhem..,expect
to be surprised!
David Wood OBE is undisputedly the country’s leading writer and director of plays
and musicals for children. His many successes include Shaun the Sheep, Fantastic Mr
Fox, The Gingerbread Man, BFG, The Witches, Meg and Mog, Spot and Babe the Sheep
Pig.
For children aged 3 and above.
Billingham Forum
1st Feb 2015 - 2nd Feb 2015
Pricing
All Seats £11.00
Schools Price Available
(Contact Box Office)
Show Times
Sunday 1.30pm
Monday 10.30am & 1.30pm
What’s on
The ELO Experience
Billingham Forum
Date Information, 22nd Jan 2015
Pricing -All Seats £20.00
Show Times -7.30pm
Formed over 7 years ago, The ELO Experience
are the world’s foremost tribute to this great
band. With a stunning light show and large
screen projection to further enhance the
experience.
The Masters Of The House
Billingham Forum
Date Information, 24th Jan 2015
Pricing, All Seats £20.00, Conc £18.50
Show Times 7.30pm
A spectacular journey though the world of
musical theatre. Two hours of your favourite
songs in one night performed by the cream of
West End performers.
Billingham Forum
Date Information
17th Jan 2015
Pricing
Adults £15.00
Children £10.00
Family Ticket £42.00
Show Times
11.30am & 3.30pm
Billingham Forum
Date Information
18th Jan 2015
Pricing
All Seats £20
Show Times
7.00pm
Featuring BRUCE FOXTON and RUSSELL
HASTINGS. From The Jam gained an immediate
reputation for the kind of incendiary ‘live’
performances that sealed the reputation of The Jam
all those years ago.
From The Jam
Setting Sons Tour - Featuring Bruce Foxton and
Russell Hastings
From The Jam gained an immediate reputation
for the kind of incendiary ‘live’ performances that
sealed the reputation of The Jam all those years ago
and 2014 has been another very busy year for the
band.
Reconciled in 2010 following family
bereavements, Paul Weller’s single ‘Fast Car/
Slow Traffic’ from ‘Wake Up The Nation’, also
featured Bruce on bass. There were also incredible
Billingham Forum
Date Information
17th Jan 2015
Pricing
All Seats £15.00
Show Times
7.00pm
scenes when Bruce recently appeared ‘live’
alongside Paul - for the first time in 28
years – to perform The Jam classics ‘The
Eton Rifles’ and ‘The Butterfly Collector’ as
well as ‘Fast Car/Slow Traffic’ at the second
of Weller’s five night residency at the Albert
Hall. Subsequently, the two worked together
on the sleeve notes of the 30th Anniversary
release of ‘Sound Affects’ by The Jam.
PAUL WELLER now appears as one
of two Very Special Guests on the new
FOXTON album, ‘Back In The Room’, along
with Stax and Blues Brothers legend, STEVE
CROPPER. The album contains a total of
12 tracks, all written by Bruce Foxton and
From The Jam vocalist/guitarist, Russell
Hastings.
Roy Chubby Brown
Billingham Forum
Date Information, 30th - 31st Jan 2015
Pricing, All Seats £20.00
Show Times, Eves 7.30pm
By Popular Demand Roy Chubby Brown
returns with a brand new show for 2015! He’s
still rude, he’s still crude as his rip-roaring
brand of banter continues to burst bellies
across the country.
The Johnny Cash
Roadshow
Billingham Forum
Date Information, 6th Feb 2015
Pricing, All Seats £17.50, Conc £16.50
Show Times, 7.30pm
The UK’s No1 celebration of Johnny Cash,
fronted by award winning singer/songwriter
Clive John, re-creates with astounding
accuracy and truly captures the essence of
what it was like to be at a real Cash show! Also
featuring the best June Carter in the business,
all aspects of Cash’s life are covered with
impeccable taste.
22
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Health
Age Related Macular Degeneration
Gil Smith FBDO(Hons)LVA
Our sight is our most precious sense and those of us who are fortunate
to have good vision tend to take it for granted and assume that we will
enjoy it for the rest of our lives. It is estimated that we receive more than
90% of our life experiences through our eyes and this emphasises just
how vital sight is.
As you know we are living longer and with greater age comes increased
risk of sight loss. The most common cause of acquired impaired vision
is aged related macular degeneration (ARMD). This mainly affects the
elderly and can have a devastating effect on quality of life.
The macular is a tiny area of the retina (the inside layer of the eye)
which gives us our detailed, central vision. It is the part of the retina we
use for reading, watching TV, driving etc. When the macular deteriorates
the central vision becomes blurred and distorted making simple tasks
such as reading difficult if not impossible. There are 2 types of ARMD
– dry and wet. The most common type is dry and this accounts for
about 90% of cases. Unfortunately there is no treatment for this. The
condition can deteriorate slowly with age; however it does not result
in total blindness. Wet ARMD is so called because fluids leak into the
retina which threatens a rapid loss of vision. Happily these days there are
effective treatments for wet ARMD which involve injecting drugs directly
into the eye which help to stop the leakage. This treatment has s a
stabilising effect and can prevent further deterioration. However
any sight lost will not be recovered. It is most important to see your
optometrist for regular eye checks as for most age related conditions
early diagnosis is essential. Certainly if you notice any distortion in
your vision such as faces becoming blurred, straight lines looking
bent or you are finding increased difficulty in reading or seeing
television please contact your optometrist as soon as possible.
Next issue – what can be done to help people with ARMD enjoy
better vision.
Better Health, Better Wealth Project
What is it?
Better Health, Better Wealth is a new project, offering support to
individuals aged 70 or over and living in the Stockton Borough
area. The programme aims to help individuals maximise income,
reduce fuel poverty, promote their own independence, health and
wellbeing by participating in local group activities within a friendly
social environment. Our activity groups will be run by our Health
& Wellbeing Coordinator, alongside two Outreach Workers and a
group of dedicated Volunteers.
What are the benefits?
• Maximising Benefits and Income
• Social Inclusion
• Improved Health and Wellbeing
What will we do?
• Our dedicated outreach workers will conduct an initial Health,
Wealth and Wellbeing assessments to offer you individual advice
and information to identify potential unclaimed benefits, reducing
incidences of fuel poverty, check that your health and wellbeing
needs are being met including advice on smoking cessation,
immunisations and provide links to our social activities.
Who is eligible?
• Individuals who are aged 70 or over and who live in the
Stockton Borough area
How can I find out more information?
To find out more information, or to refer yourself or somebody
for this programme, please contact:
Michelle Tierney - Health & Wellbeing/Volunteer Coordinator
Tel: 01642 803324
Email: [email protected]
What is it?
Better Health, Better Wealth is a new project, offering support to
individuals aged 70 or over and living in the Stockton Borough
area. The programme aims to help individuals maximise income,
reduce fuel poverty, promote their own independence, health
and wellbeing by participating in local group activities within a
friendly social environment. Our activity groups will be run by
our Health & Wellbeing Coordinator, alongside two Outreach
Workers and a group of dedicated Volunteers.
What are the benefits?
• Maximising Benefits and Income
• Social Inclusion
• Improved Health and Wellbeing
What will we do?
• Our dedicated outreach workers will conduct an initial Health,
Wealth and Wellbeing assessments to offer you individual advice
and information to identify potential unclaimed benefits, reducing
incidences of fuel poverty, check that your health and wellbeing needs
are being met including advice on smoking cessation, immunisations
and provide links to our social activities.
Who is eligible?
• Individuals who are aged 70 or over and who live in the Stockton
Borough area.
How can I find out more information?
To find out more information, or to refer yourself or somebody for
this programme, please contact:
Michelle Tierney - Health & Wellbeing/Volunteer Coordinator
Tel: 01642 803324 or Email: [email protected]
12 tips to help you
lose weight on
the 12-week plan
need. You should aim to drink about six to eight glasses (1.2
litres) of fluid, preferably water, every day – or more if it’s warm
or you’re exercising.
6. Eat high-fibre foods
Foods containing lots of fibre will keep you feeling full for
longer, which is perfect for losing weight. Fibre is only found in
food from plants, such as fruit and veg, oats, wholegrain bread,
brown rice and pasta, and beans, peas and lentils.
7. Read food labels
Knowing how to read food labels can help you choose healthier
options, and keep a check on the amount of calories, fat, salt
and sugars you eat. Use the calorie information to work out how
a particular food fits into your daily calorie allowance on the
weight loss plan. Find out more about reading food labels.
8. Use a smaller plate
Studies show people who use smaller plates tend to eat smaller
portions and are still satisfied. By using smaller plates and
bowls, you may be able to gradually get used to eating smaller
portions without going hungry. It takes about 20 minutes for the
stomach to tell the brain it’s full, so eat slowly and stop eating
before you feel full.
9. Don’t ban foods
Don’t ban any foods from your weight loss plan, especially the
ones you like. Banning foods will only make you crave them
more. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy the occasional treat as
long as you stay within your daily calorie allowance.
10. Don’t stock junk food
To avoid temptation, avoid stocking junk food, such as
chocolate, biscuits, crisps and sweet fizzy drinks, at home.
Instead, stock up on healthy snacks, such as fruit, unsalted rice
cakes, oat cakes, unsalted or unsweetened popcorn, and fruit
juice.
11. Cut down on alcohol
Did you know a standard glass of wine can contain as many calories
as a piece of chocolate, and a pint of lager has about the same calorie
count as a packet of crisps? Over time, drinking too much can easily
contribute to weight gain. Find out more about the calories in alcohol.
12. Plan your meals
Plan your breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for the week, making
sure you stick to your calorie allowance. Try to plan for four to seven
days’ worth of meals and snacks. Make a shopping list, but don’t shop
when you’re hungry as that can lead to high-calorie impulse buys!
1. Don’t skip breakfast
Research shows eating breakfast helps you control your weight.
Some people skip breakfast because they think it will help them
lose weight, but missing meals doesn’t help us lose weight and isn’t
good for us as we can miss out on essential nutrients. It could also
encourage us to snack more throughout the day because you feel
hungry. Check out five healthy breakfasts.
2. Eat regular meals
Some people think missing meals will help them lose weight, but it’s
been shown eating regularly during the day helps burn calories at a
faster rate. It also reduces the temptation to snack on foods high in
fat and sugar. Find out more about eating heathily.
3. Eat plenty of fruit and veg
Fruit and veg are low in calories and fat, and high in fibre – three
essential ingredients for successful weight loss. They also contain
plenty of vitamins and minerals. Read up on getting your 5 A DAY.
4. Get more active
Studies show regular activity is key to losing weight and keeping it
off. As well as providing numerous health benefits, exercise can help
burn off the excess calories you can’t cut through diet alone. Find an
activity you enjoy and are able to fit into your routine.
5. Drink plenty of water
People sometimes confuse thirst with hunger. You can end up
consuming extra calories when a glass of water is really what you
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Health
QUEENSWAY
DENTAL CLINIC
Local Dental Professional
is first to graduate from
famous centre
A local dental laboratory manager has become the first technician
to graduate from a world-famous education and training centre in
America.
Richard Elliott, of Billingham based Queensway Dental Laboratory
has successfully qualified from the Kois Center which is a prestigious
dental education programme in Seattle, Washington, USA.
Mr Richard Elliott said “I am delighted to become the first accredited
Kois Technician in the UK which it is one of the most challenging and
rewarding accomplishments of my career. The course has helped my
colleagues and I bridge the gap between technicians and dentists. The
clinical insight I have gained means we now have a system of working
together, following the Kois principles that can only be of benefit to our
patients.”
In addition, Dr Paul Averley, Dr Ian Lane, Dr William Carter and
Dr Uzma Olbrich, partners at Queensway Dental Clinic, have become
Kois accredited having completed the comprehensive nine-module
curriculum at the Kois Center in Seattle.
The team members of the forward-thinking dental clinic, which has
pioneered conscious sedation services for anxious patients over 20
years, account for five of only 15 practitioners in the UK who have
graduated from the innovative centre.
Study undertaken at the internationally-renowned Kois Center course,
based on latest research, is an intense educational experience including
dns1937_210
148 27/10/2014
Page 1 gums, teeth, bite problems,
modules
on allx clinical
areas of16:00
dentistry;
cosmetics and implants using both didactic and hands-on training.
Dr Paul Averley said, “Becoming a graduate of the advanced Kois
programme has allowed the partners at Queensway to bring together
evidence collected across the world to deliver excellence in dentistry.
This programme means that we have consolidated our knowledge,
experience and training to deliver dental health outcomes that will last
and enable our patients to maximise their aesthetic potential.”
Dr Ian Lane said: “It has been an amazing experience. The course is
delivered exclusively by Dr John Kois all supported by the latest lecture
equipment. Each session was run by a team of mentors who shared
their own learning experiences. The Kois Center is the most advanced
teaching centre I have ever seen.
Most importantly what we have learnt means we can deliver an
increased range of options to our patients, which will ultimately
transform the way we practise and the outcomes we achieve. We see
many patients who have suffered many problems with their teeth.
We can build on skills learned in Seattle to be able to manage the
complexity of problem teeth reliably or manage an anxious dental
patient using the most up to date, predictable procedures and
techniques.”
Dr Will Carter explains: “Not only has the course enabled us to
conduct activity to benefit our patients, it has also shown us new ways
in which we can get patients to start thinking about their own oral
health and to really connect with what is happening in their mouths,
before any intervention from us takes place.
No two mouths are identical; each is unique with its own risks of
dental disease. Thanks to our Kois training we can address any risk
factors in a patient’s initial assessment developing a plan to maintain
or improve the patients’ dental condition, lessening the risk of future
dental problems, giving patients the best chance of keeping their smile,
teeth and oral health for a lifetime!”
Queensway Dental Clinic puts its success down to the teams’ hard
work and continuous reinvestment in staff training and in equipment.
Everyone at Queensway is committed to caring for patients in a
professional, honest and comprehensive way. This training from the
Kois Center has strengthened the dentists’ commitment to excellence
and doing the best for their patients’ individual needs.
For a free new patient consultation at Queensway Dental Clinic,
visit: www.queensway.co.uk or call 01642 554667.
23
Queensway Dental Clinic,
170 Queensway. Billingham,
Teesside, TS23 2NT
Call us on 01642 554667
or please visit www.queensway.co.uk
Stockton
Duathlon Festival
Run-Cycle-Run
Sunday 26 April 2015
Be Inspired. Be part of the action – One of the UK’s biggest
and best Duathlon’s returns!
3 distances suitable for elite athletes and absolute beginners:
Novice - 2k run, 10k cycle, 1k run
Sprint - 5k run, 20k cycle, 2.5k run
Standard - 10k run, 40k cycle, 5k run
• Cash prizes, £500 for 1st, £300 for 2nd and £200 for 3rd (standard distance only)
• Age Group qualifier for World and European Championships
• Fully closed road multi-lap town centre circuit
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illingh to Keys
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24
• All abilities welcomed and encouraged
• Goodie bags for all entrants
To book your place visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon
In association with
·
·
·
·
·
Key cutting service
Auto Spare Keys, Replaced, Chipped and Coded
Auto Key Remote Repair service available
Locks, Padlocks, Keys and Remotes
All domestic, commercial & auto work covered
Tel: 07717357791
www.Dial4locks.co.uk
24
Health
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
+
Health, Exercise and Allotments This winter,
protect yourself
from flu
Prior to Christmas members of the Port Clarence community came
together to bake mince pies and gingerbread, celebrate and enjoy a
wonderful FREE Christmas meal provided through a Groundwork
North East & Cumbria led project called HEAL.
The meal celebrated the project to date and provided another
opportunity for families to cook, bake and share food together.
CRAG (Clarences Residents Action Group) has been closely involved
in the project to date, but Groundwork are keen to involve more
residents and groups from the wider Billingham community as the
project progresses.
HEAL (which stands for Health, Exercise and Allotments) is funded
by Catalyst and encourages participants to join in weekly sessions
which run over 10 weeks. Activities vary, but have included healthy
cooking sessions delivered by Little Sprouts, allotment based green
exercise sessions, wild food walks and HEAL has even provided a
health trainer to help people with their own health goals, such as
eating more healthily, losing weight or smoking cessation. Ideal for
people who have made health related New Year’s resolutions!
The HEAL project is open to all residents in the Stockton area
and sessions re-start in mid-January with sessions running at three
separate locations – Port Clarence, Tilery and Thornaby.
To register for more information or to sign up to take part in
sessions please contact Sarah Ransome on 01642 815663 or email
[email protected].
Flu is a highly infectious disease which can affect anyone
during the winter months. It causes very unpleasant
symptoms which often result in missing work/school and
upset normal living for several days, even weeks.
In some cases the infection is more serious, can lead to
serious complications and may even be fatal. It is caused by a
virus which can be spread by coughing or sneezing. It can be
picked up by breathing in droplets from the air or touching
contaminated surfaces.
Some people are more susceptible to infection and can
suffer more seriously from the complications of flu. These
people include the elderly, pregnant women and those with
certain long term conditions. In other words, people who
you are likely to be in contact with each day, maybe without
realising it.
There is a very easy way to protect not just yourself, but also
those who you could pass the virus on to….
HAVE A FLU JAB.
If you receive this vaccination you will protect yourself
from flu and its complications and so won’t be able to infect
anyone you come into contact with, either at home or in the
workplace. Even if you have been vaccinated in previous
years it is vital to get it again this year, as each year a new
vaccination is used to protect against the latest and most
harmful strains of the flu virus.
The Pharmacy offers a flu vaccination service which is
available free of charge to those who are eligible on the NHS.
Our staff can advise you if you fall into this group. If not we
can still vaccinate you for a small fee. There is no need to
make an appointment; we will fit you in at a time to suit you.
Flu can be a major cause of people taking sick days off work
which is inconvenient and costly to businesses. If you are an
employer and would like to offer the flu vaccination to you
employees, please call The Pharmacy to discuss how we could
help with this.
Our vaccination service will run from 29th September so
now is the time to plan your flu jab, before winter sets in.
To find out more
please drop in, visit
our website
www.thepharmacy.org.uk
or call us on
01642 530304
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
25
North East
Regional
Sports
Champions
North East Regional Sports Champions.
The Mens Football and the Rugby team
are North East Regional Champions
and will represent the North Colleges
at the National Final in Bath later in the
academic year.
We also have ladies doubles in badminton
and two swimmers representing the
North East as champions at Bath in
March 2015.
Media Students – Stranton
Primary Radio Station
Six Media students are working closely with Stranton radio to run their web based radio station;
which involves the students in training students on how to write jingles and put together radio
programmes. They have appeared in the Hartlepool Mail and work at Stranton Primary every
Wednesday afternoon. The intention is to gain the required skills so that we can have our own radio
station next academic year. The students are made up of 1 A2 – who is progressing onto a radio
production related degree at the end of this year. The five AS students will be used to set up and run
the college radio next year and all have interests in going into radio production as a career.
North East Mathematics Challenge Champions
We became Champions in November 2014 for the first time in our history! Four talented Maths students
completed against 15 other sixth form schools/colleges, including English Martyrs who came 13th. The
team now go on to National Finals in London.
Record number of students
get Oxbridge interviews
National Youth
Parliament Event at
Houses of Parliament
Shay Miah gave the closing speech at the National
Conference for the Youth Parliament, in recognition of his
contribution to local politics and because he received the
most votes during his election campaign in the UK when
he ran to represent Hartlepool at the Youth Parliament.
She also received a special Certificate, which was presented
to him by David Cameron in recognition of his voluntary
work in Hartlepool.
We have 9 students that have received offers of interviews for Oxford and Cambridge.
26
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Sport
Return of the Ice Age
JAN/FEB 2015
A scheme to encourage females to increase
their participation in sport and physical
activity has definitely hit the mark with
Louise Brady. Make Your Move on Mondays
is a free ice skating session funded by Sport
England and Stockton Public Health at
Billingham Forum Ice Arena. The session
which runs between 7.30-9.30 on Mondays
are available throughout 2015 and already
over 500 women have taken advantage of this
session.
Louise Brady is a regular at the Monday
sessions and Louise is typical of many of
the participants as she explains “I was a
passionate skater between the ages of 10
and 16 coming to the Ice Rink every Friday,
Saturday and Sunday night. Once I started my
working life and eventually starting raising a
family, ice skating was low down on my list of
priorities.
After 15 years of no skating I was made
aware of the session by some of my friends
and thought it would be great to have a go
back on the ice I came to the Monday evening
free skate and had such a fab time. It brought
back memories of my teens when I went ice
skating every weekend
After attending a Monday Make Your Move
session I went home and told family and
friends all about it. The next week my cousin
and her friend came along with more friends.
I then had my daughter asking to go, so on
Saturday myself, hubby and daughter came
along and had an absolute fabulous afternoon,
and my daughter absolutely loved it so much,
that we have booked her skating lessons.”
The skating lessons have definitely paid off
for Louise’s 9 year old daughter Lilia who has
just passed her Level 1 skating award
Louise from Stockton added “I would
encourage anyone to give it a go it is really
relaxed and informal and is a great way to
spend time with your friends and get some
exercise.
Billingham Five A Side League
Opening the New Year in top spot Barwick
Rangers continued their unbeaten 39 league
game winning streak to narrowly beat closest
rivals Station Plastering 2v1. This win gave
them the maximum 27 points from the 9 games
played this season & extended their lead at the
top of the table to 10 points. With 5 games to go
they are in prime position to retain the title for
the fifth season in succession. In other games
Blue Bells, Newton Bewley shared the points in
a 4v4 draw with Pinpoint Recruitment & moved
up to third spot. Scouting For Goals eased past
bottom place Monkey Hangers 12v7. Monkey
Hangers have still to pick up a point this season.
Relegation threatened Swans swept away the
turkey with a narrow 3v2 over Motortech.
In the second division top versus bottom
clash, leaders Half A Crown scored 11 goals
Puzzles & Fun
SUDOKU
EASY
HARD
visit our website for answers - www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
passed The Wanderers who replied with two
goals. The Wanderers remain rooted to the
bottom the table & are still seeking their first
points of the season. P.A.C.S. are keeping the
pressure on at the top with a close fought
5v4 win against Farcelona. They have an
equal record to Half A Crown with only goal
difference keeping them apart. In third place
the improved Spartans shared a 3v3 draw with
Teesside Wanderers. In mid table Diesel Centre,
Eston met Billingham Fire who cancelled each
other out to draw the match 2v2.
Games are played at SRC Bede Sports
Centre on Sunday evenings from 7.00 p.m. &
spectators are welcome.
Following the league on Facebook, Twitter or
via the website www.billinghamfiveasideleague.
co.uk.
Div One League Table
W
D
L
PTS
GD
Div Two League Table
W
D
L
PTS
GD
Barwick Rangers
9
0
0
27
+33
Half A Crown.
7
1
0
22
+34
Station Plastering
5
2
2
17
+16
P.A.C.S
7
1
0
22
+31
Blue Bells Newton Bewley
4
4
1
16
+13
Spartans
4
1
3
13
+12
Pinpoint Recruitment
4
1
4
14
+6
Teesside Wanderers
3
3
2
12
-1
Scouting For Goals
4
2
3
13
+6
Diesel Centre, Eston
3
2
3
11
-3
Moortech
3
1
5
10
+13
Farcelona
2
1
5
7
-11
Swans
2
0
7
6
-38
Billingham Fire
1
1
6
4
-7
Monkey Hangers
0
0
9
0
-49
WORD SEARCH
NUMBER SEARCH
Can you find the CARTOON CHARACTERS? They
may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or
backwards.
Can you find the hidden numbers? They may be
horizontal or vertical.
ARTHUR, BAMBI, BARNEY RUBBLE, BETTY BOOP, BUGS BUNNY, CHARLIE
BROWN, DAFFY DUCK, DONALD DUCK, DUMBO, EEYORE, ELMER FUDD, FELIX
THE CAT, FRED FLINTSTONE, GARFIELD, GOOFY, MICKEY MOUSE, MIGHTY
MOUSE, MR MAGOO, PLUTO, POPEYE, PORKY PIG, ROAD RUNNER, SCOOBYDOO, SNOOPY, SYLVESTER, THE SIMPSONS, TIGGER, TOM AND JERRY,
TOP CAT, TWEETY, WINNIE THE POOH.
04473, 05133, 05147, 10193, 11707, 19274, 23457, 29593, 34477,
37432, 47474, 64738, 73849, 87207, 94383, 99874.
JAN/FEB 2015
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Sport
Billingham Legacy Foundation
Golf Day
Billingham Golf Club are hosting the next Billingham Legacy
Foundation Golf Day on Friday 15 May 2015. At £30 per person
based on 4 ball entry. This will provide you with bacon buttie
on arrival, teas and coffee, 18 holes of golf over our superb
course, followed by a great 2 course meal and prizes for the
winning teams and individual players.
27
North Eastern Regional
Championships
There were more super performances from Billingham ASC swimmers at last weekend’s County
Championships.
Leading the way for Billingham was Stephanie Blakeburn as she won three gold medals in the
finals of 100 and 200 metres butterfly and 200 metres individual medley all in super new personal
best times. Stephanie also won the silver medal in 100 metres freestyle in another new pb time
and the bronze medal in 50 metres freestyle.
Claire Collins and Lewis Robertson both won places in the finals of The Championships. It was
the first time that both the swimmers had succeeded in reaching the senior finals. Claire set great
new pb times in the heats of the 50 and 200 metres breaststroke and finished 9th in both finals
again setting new pb’s.
Lewis also set excellent new pb times in the heats of 200 and 400 metres individual medley. Lewis
was 6th in the 400 metres individual medley final, shaving even more time off his pb and 10th in
200 metres individual medley final.
Jude Blackmore had two excellent swims in 100 and 200 metres butterfly in the 12 year old age
group where he finished 7th overall in the 200 metres race.
Jack Harwood also age 12 had good swims in 100 and 200 metres butterfly.
In the 13 year old age group, Freya Williams had super swims setting new personal best times
in 200 and 400 metres freestyle. Freya had also qualified to swim the senior category of The
Championships of 50 metres freestyle.
Nicholas Gowland, age 18 set great new personal best times in 50 and 200 metres butterfly.
Jordan Mogford age 15 also swam very well to set new personal best times in 50 metres
breaststroke and backstroke.
In the 14 year old age group Sam Chell and Hayley Briggs both swam well throughout the
weekend. Sam set a great new personal best time competing for the first time in the senior
category of The Championships in 50 metres freestyle and breaststroke.
Of course you don’t have to wait until an organised golf event to enjoy our club facilities, the new
Adult
Courses
atability, you can practice your
driving range is Beginner
open all year round and whatever
the weather or your
swing! Current membership offer for the driving range is £20 up until 2015 of the range is £20 this
Billingham
Club
includes full use of the practiceGolf
facilities, social
membership of the clubhouse and a discount on
drinks.
Get
into for
golfmore
withChristmas
a five week
introduction
for Buy
beginners
delivered
by second
a PGA
Looking
ideas for
the golfer intothegolf
family?
one lesson
and get the
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coach,
covering
all aspects
of the game
in aorfriendly
relaxedOr,
environment.
lesson half price.
This offer
is suitable
for experienced
players
absoluteand
beginners.
ask about
academyNew
membership.
package includes
driving
membership,
groupThis
courses
starting
on: range
Thursday
31stsocial
Julymembership,
6-7pm; 2 golf
lessons with club pro
ndMike Ure and 6 rounds of golf at Billingham.
th This whole package is just £200.
Saturday 2 August, 9-10am & Tuesday 5 August, 6.30-7.30pm
Pop into the club shop to view a whole selection of golfing gifts from all the top brands including
Calloway, Nike, Footjoy, Galvin Green, Oscar Jacobson, Mizuno, Ping and Taylor Made.
O cut out this advert and bring to the shop to receive a 5% discount on all soft goods and
Please
accessoriesvalidaged
until Christmas
2014.
Open tooffer
anyisadult
16+ who isEve
new
or returning to the game. The dress code is
nly £25 for 5 x weekly 1hr group lessons!
relaxed and even the equipment is provided for free if required.
Want to know more about club membership, adult, junior or social
Please contact Mike Ure at Billingham GC on 01642 557060 for more information or go to
membership, ortofor
more
golfingand
giftbook
ideas.
www.getintogolf.org/durham
see
dates/times
a place online.
Please contact Mike Ure on 01642 557060 to discuss.
RESIDENTS from across the Borough are
being encouraged to come and give something
different a go at the River Tees Watersports
Centre by its new Sports Recruitment Activator,
Linda Rolfe.
Linda believes that the location of the centre,
on the banks of the River Tees, represents the
ideal opportunity for people of all abilities to get
involved with watersports like rowing, canoeing
and even dragon boating – something they may
not have considered before.
“Not many places in the country have a river
as good as ours, so we should take advantage
of it.
“The centre is in just the right spot to get into
the water and start having fun. The water is
flat enough to be able to accommodate most
watersports and is perfect for beginners.”
Linda’s background is deeply rooted in sports,
having competed in swimming at a national
level.
After gaining a first class honours degree in
Sports Promotion and Marketing from the
University of Huddersfield, where she wrote a
dissertation that is now to be published, Linda was
keen to return to the North East and put what she
had learnt into practice.
She spotted an advert for the role of Sports
Recruitment Activator which sparked her
imagination.
“I like a challenge, so the idea of learning new
sports and the chance to take full ownership of a
role and making it a success was perfect for me.
“Knowing I could play a key role in the success of
the centre and achieving the Sport England Grant
targets is a little daunting but I use it as motivation
to achieve the best results I can.
Ultimately, Linda feels that many people would
benefit from taking the plunge into a new sport
on the water which would keep them healthy and
active – ideal for those New Year resolutions.
“It’s never too late to try something new plus a
lot of the sports involve sitting down while taking
in scenic views of the river, so there really is
something for everyone!”
For more information on the River Tees
Watersports Centre please visit www.rtwc.co.uk,
email [email protected] or call 01642 628940.
Residents urged to take
the plunge
28
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
JAN/FEB 2015
Sport
Stars Scalp Warriors in Huge Derby Win
ULTIMATE WINDOWS-sponsored Billingham Stars bounced back
from a double-figure defeat at English Premier League leaders The
Tigers in the British Challenge Cup on Saturday by trouncing North
East rivals Whitley Warriors 8-1 at the Forum on Sunday evening
in a National Ice Hockey League (N) Moralee Division 1 encounter.
Saturday’s trip to Telford was always going to be a tough final Cup
fixture for the Teessiders, the Tigers are running away with the EPL and
iced a full squad, Billingham by contrast travelled to Shropshire missing
key players through injury and unavailability, especially on defence.
The Stars rocked the hosts by opening the scoring, Callum Davies
silencing the home crowd with just over four minutes played. From
that point attention was focussed on the Billingham net as netminder
James Flavell was called upon time after time to keep his side in it.
The pressure eventually told, Joe Miller equalising in the ninth minute
before Dan Davies moved the Tigers ahead on a delayed penalty call in
the 17th minute.
The middle session saw the EPL leaders’ class begin to show as they
scored four unanswered markers. Scott McKenzie rattled in two and
Peter Szabo made it 5-1 before the Stars made a scheduled netminder
change, Flavell making way for Mark Watson in the 31st minute.
Watson continued where Flavell had left off, taking plenty of shots, but
could do nothing to prevent Miller grabbing his second in the 36th
minute to take the teams into the interval at 6-1.
Billingham’s short bench and the Tigers superior fitness really showed
in the final session as the visitors ran out of steam and allowed the
Shropshire side to add a further five goals to their tally, the returning
Dan Scott, Nathan Salem, Richard Plant, Davies with his second and
finally Adam Taylor all getting their names on the score sheet. A valiant
effort from the Stars perhaps not reflected in an 11-1 final score and
some very tired legs making their way back to Teesside.
WELCOME TO
ULTIMATE
windows & conservatories
Est. 1988
Sunday’s Tyne-Tees derby encounter saw Billingham back
at approaching full strength, with the welcome addition of
imposing defenseman Dave Thomas a boost for the Stars
bench. The home side were all over the Warriors from the
first drop of the puck, harrying their opponents and taking
the game to their opponents with an intensity not seen this
season. Billingham went close to opening the scoring on
numerous occasions, eventually getting their reward just six
seconds into their first power play opportunity in the 14th
minute, Michael Elder tipping in a Richie Thornton shot from
the blue line. Despite all of the pressure, the session ended
with the Stars just one goal to the good.
A six-minute spell in the second session crushed the visitors
as Billingham went on the rampage, scoring four goals to see
off the visitors’ netminder Richie Lawson. Chris Sykes started
the rout in the 23rd minute, followed in quick succession
by Ben Davison, Michael Bowman and a second for Elder,
all scored before the halfway point in the game. Elder’s goal
prompted Lawson to decide enough was enough, Mark
Turnbull replacing him between the pipes for the remainder
of the game. With Turnbull in cold, Emerson scored the
home side’s sixth in the 31st minute. Stars’ Luke Brown and
Whitley’s Callum Watson dropped the gloves in the 33rd
minute, both drawing double minor penalties for roughing,
before the period was brought to a premature end by a facial
injury to Billingham’s Andy Munroe. The remaining 48
seconds of the session were played at the start of the third
period, and it was enough time for Thomas Stuart-Dant to
rifle home goal number seven before the players swapped ends
to commence the final session.
The Stars looked like they would continue to heap misery
on their beleaguered neighbours when Elder scored his hat
trick goal in the 43rd minute, however the home side ran
into penalty trouble and the Warriors denied Flavell his shut
out when they eventually grabbed a consolation marker
through DJ Good whilst on a five-on-three power play in the
47th minute. After that Billingham seemed content to play
possession hockey, keeping the puck and running the clock
down to secure one of their biggest Derby wins in recent
times, the 8-1 final score testament to the Stars dominance.
Billingham Removals
Crossword
Across
1. Seafarer (7)
4. Attain (5)
7. Catlike mammal (5)
9. Type of rock (7)
10. Respire (7)
11. Gaze (5)
12. Resembling a horse (6)
14. Unit of time (6)
18. Pandemonium (5)
20. Melodious (7)
22. Elusive (7)
23. Fibbing (5)
24. Foe (5)
25. Distinguished (7)
Down
1. Gruesome (7)
2. Variety show (5)
3. Elevated (6)
4. Parts of a ladder (5)
5. Fruit (7)
6. Precipitance (5)
8. Colossus (5)
13. Unwitting (7)
15. Tripod (5)
16. Joy (7)
17. Hinder (6)
18. Pancake (5)
19. Glossy (5)
21. Percussion instrument (5)