thirlwells - Billingham Community Newspaper

Transcription

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Sedgefield
Medieval Fair
Saturday 16 May will see the 45th
Sedgefield Medieval Fair take place
on the village green. There is a host
of family entertainment including the
Escafeld Medieval Knights, who will
do combat on the village green as well
as in the grounds of Ceddesfeld Hall.
The event starts at 10 am with the
children parading their flower Queen
and her attendants in a horse drawn
carriage.
All proceeds from this very
traditional events goes towards the
upkeep of Ceddesfeld Hall.
Billingham
Community Games
ISSUE 37
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!
MAY/JUN 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!
BA (Hons) Quest for Sandy
Saturday 13 June 2015 10 – 4 pm
SRC Bede College Marsh House Ave
Fun and games for all the family as
residents, businesses and educators
compete to win this year’s trophy
all to support Billingham Legacy
Foundation. Host of activities outside
of the main event for all age groups,
face painting, Tye Dye your own T
Shirt, children’s activities, also Lottie
and Jacks Vintage Craft Fayre new for
this year. Join in with groups from
Thirteen, KP Snacks, Princes Trust,
SK Chilled Foods, CCG, Queensway
Dental, Stockton Riverside College and
many more. Call 07770455651 to enter
a team into the Main Event Games or
for more information.
Please Vote Now
to Help School Win
£25,000
Please Vote Now to Help Secure
Funding for New School Equipment
via Aviva Community Fund for St
Michaels Academy. Read more on
page 16.
Joe McElderry - The
Evolution Tour
The Evolution Tour showcases Joe’s
renowned versatility which has won
him a unique fan base. But it is Joe’s
sheer energy and vitality which carry
the show – and the audience into the
night with a sense of elation.
St Aidan’s Craft Fayre
Tintern Avenue - 13 June 2015 11 –
3 pm. Traditional crafts, bric a brac,
raffle, cake stalls and time for tea. Call
07963308120 for more details
Venue Hire
Looking to host a fundraising
activity, find a home for your group
or your association, want to start a
new group or association? Check out
the range of facilities available in our
local community centres on Hereford
Terrace, Low Grange Avenue and now
East Avenue.
Call 01642 564077 for more details
BCN caught up with veteran Sandy Peebles shortly
after it was confirmed he had secured a place at
Cleveland College of Art & Design to fulfil his lifetime
ambition to study for a degree using his considerable
knowledge gained over a diverse background. Sandy
said ‘I applied to CCAD to fulfil a lifetime ambition,
believing the skills gained should make me a suitable
candidate and that my age should not be a barrier.’
He continued, ‘I will be a ‘mature’ student, following
a dream that started over 50 years ago, when at a
crossroads in my life as I received the results of my
11+, I was afforded a choice, option A or option B. The
former consisted of Latin and the choice of French or
German languages. Option B was Technical Subjects
and French or German. I picked the latter, not because
I couldn’t find the justification in my head to study
Latin, but because I liked drawing and working with my
hands. All of my school book covers were covered in
drawings of ships and aeroplanes.’
Once Sandy completed his education, he went on to
serve a 5 year apprenticeship in mechanical engineering
and learned how to build things from various materials
such as paper, wood and steel, using turning lathes:
mechanical saws; over-head drilling machines and
casting components in sand boxes. Sandy said ‘A life in
the Merchant Navy enabled me to use all of my training
in very practical ways, keeping the ship afloat and the
engines turning. I later returned to shipbuilding, as
a Draughtsman, producing 3/8ths to the foot scale
drawings. When the industrial demand for all of those
skills diminished, I continued draughting and model
making, mainly in the form of toys for my children and
grand-children’. Continued on page 3.
Stay up to date with all things billingham at
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
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
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 Bede 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
‘‘
Vals
Corner
Val Scollen, Chair, Board of Trustees
With the elections over we extend a huge welcome to the new team of
councillors who will represent and champion causes for our community.
We have some new faces on board and it’s great to see representation
for our younger generation too. Huge progress is being made with the
Causeway transport improvements and the new residential development
next to the community centre is well ahead of schedule too. It’s great
to see the new SRC Skills Centre open (just off Marsh House Avenue)
providing fantastic opportunities for our young people. Down at Port
Clarence, the Labyrinth is now complete, with great thanks to the team
from BELP, Thirteen, B&Q and a host of volunteers who worked to
deliver the project weeks ahead of schedule. We have a lot of appeals
in this edition to help and support good causes, including Hope4Nell,
KBDO and, a request to vote for St Michael’s to win up to £25,000 of
equipment in the Aviva Community Fund – and sadly as I type this,
greater need in Nepal following another earthquake. I know that the good
people of Billingham, will do all they can to help those in need.
Thank you See you soon
‘‘
2
by Val Scollen
BROUGHT YOU BY LOW VISION SUPPLIES
176 Belasis Avenue , Billingham
TEL: 01642 530801
www.lowvisionsupplies .com
Billingham Removals
07903 265 409
Billingham Gardening Services
07712228555
The Lock Shop
07717357791
MAY/JUN 2015
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
• Kingsway Medical Centre –
01642 554967
• Abbey Health Centre –
01642 552700
• Melrose Surgery – 01642 553055
Race Furniture
01642 242 888
www.holmesandracefurniture.co.uk
Chemists
• 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.
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
MAY/JUN 2015
News in Brief
Wolviston Court WI
May and June are exciting months
for WI members! We will debate the
Resolution for the AGM in the Royal
Albert Hall and have a Faith Supper
afterwards on 14 th May, then we host a
Fashion Show by
Edinburgh Woollen Mills on Thursday
21 st at 7.30pm. Admission £2.50
includes tea/coffee and gateaux. Tickets
available from WI members and at the
door. Please note items will be available
for purchase – but cash sales only.
Our organisation is celebrating
its centenary this year and has been
granted a special Royal Garden Party at
Buckingham Palace on 2 nd June - three
of our members will be attending, with
the chance to meet Camilla, Duchess
of Cornwall and Sophie, Countess of
Wessex. Our representative at the AGM
on 4th June will be Vice President Sue
Simpson. All the ladies are looking
forward to these events and some
members will be following the meeting as
it is streamed live on the Internet.
On 11th June Isabel Wilson will give a
presentation on breast cancer care and
the competition will be something pink.
The date for our Annual Group Meeting
is 18th June, when members from local
WIs meet at Elwick to present reports,
enjoy supper and entertainment. Doesn’t
time fly when you are enjoying yourself?
We welcomed one new members last
month - why not come along as a guest
to one of our events and see for yourself
what it is all about - guests are always
very welcome - the more the merrier!
Further information from Margaret
01642 363502.
Billingham Choral
Society
Following a wonderful night, singing
with other northern choirs in The Sage,
Gateshead, members have entertained
the Hardwick Ladies Club and are
now rehearsing to sing at a wedding in
Wynyard Hall Chapel. The next public
concert will be in the church of St.
Mary Magdalene, Whitehouse Road, on
Tuesday 16th June at 7.30pm. Tickets
are available from church and choir
members or at the door. The programme
will include solos and duets as well as
items from the recent Choral Spectacular.
The Social Evening on 1st May with
members from Synthonia and Stockton
male voice choirs was enjoyed by all.
There was great entertainment as well as
a buffet supper, quizzes and a raffle. This
event raised £100 for McMillan Nursing
- thanks to all who helped make this
possible.
The choir always welcomes new
members, especially gentlemen - you do
not have to be able to read music and
there’s no audition – just come along if
you enjoy singing and make new friends
as you learn to make music. For more
information please contact Musical
Director Margaret Pringle telephone
01642 363502 or check out our website
www.billinghamchoralsociety.org.uk
If you have
news stories,
please email
us at:
news@billingham
communitynewspaper.co.uk
3
The Pink Ladies Make Their Move
Over 200 women definitely added some colour to
Billingham Forum Ice Arena as they attended the
Make Your Move on Mondays free ladies only skating
session which has been funded by the National Lottery
via Sport England and Stockton Public Health.
The sessions which have been running since June and
will be available till the end of 2015, have proved to be
incredibly popular with over 1300 women signing up
for the scheme to date.
Tees Active who manages the scheme have linked up
with Cancer Research UK for a special Pink Ladies –
Cont from front page...
Sandy also shared that following retirement, he
volunteered in the Youth and Community Sector and,
because of the lack of appropriate premises to run a
youth club, he converted a double-decker bus, to travel
around from one residential estate to another. He
successfully applied for and received funding bids to
complete the project. He did most of the work for the
conversion himself, continuing to use the skills learned
earlier in life. Due to the popularity of the project
and depreciation of the original vehicle he went on to
convert a second bus before retiring for real this time, or
so he said!
More recently, as a member of The Royal British
Legion, Sandy was called to ‘shoe-horn’ a cast of almost
200 people on to the stage of the Forum Theatre in
Billingham, helping to run one of the largest events
in the country, with a Festival of Remembrance,
commemorating the First World War from 1914 – 1918.
Following that success, a local student contacted him
and asked for help in constructing a bar for her end
of year show which is based in a Pub. Using wood,
hardboard and off- the -shelf polystyrene mouldings
he designed and constructed the whole set. Beer pump
handles consist of cut down stair spindles, painted
to represent dark wood and brass fittings. Sandy
has already been booked to help with the Christmas
Pantomime for Stage production and design.
Sandy said, ‘Having given my family, friends and
others the benefit of my skills and experience over the
past half-century, I would now like to do something for
myself. That something is in the form of a BA (Hons) in
Production Design for Stage and Screen and I am really
looking forward to life as a mature student! Well done
Sandy – proving it’s never too late to learn!
Skate for Life event to raise funds for Cancer Research
UK.Through the sale of pink t-shirts, a tombola and
the generous donations of participants on the night
£564 was raised for this fantastic cause.
Janet Leafe from Cancer UK said “We are delighted
with the turnout for this event and how we have
managed to Link up with the fantastic Make Your
Move on Mondays project which is really getting
women in the Tees Valley area active in a great social
atmosphere. The funds raised on the night will be
put to the best possible use to look for new cures and
treatments for cancer.”
The free Make Your Move on Mondays skating sessions
are set to run throughout the rest of 2015 and Stephanie
Carter the Activator for the scheme said “These sessions
are all about getting women more active in a friendly
atmosphere, there are 2 ice professionals in attendance
to give any advice needed and there is a fantastic range
of ages of women attending. It is a fantastic way to get
active and catch up with friends,”
For further information on Make Your Move on
Mondays contact Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772
Get on the ball with Paul Addison
for Sports Report Course
FOOTBALL enthusiasts are being offered a rare
opportunity to learn the craft of sports reporting
under the guidance of BBC Tees stalwart Paul
Addison.
Having worked for the BBC for more than 15
years covering both grassroots local sport and
Middlesbrough FC’s foray into European football,
Paul has vast experience of producing accurate
and exciting match reports.
Among the techniques being taught will be
showing learners how to bring out the essential
information from a match to end up with a report
that tells the true story of the game.
‘Sports Reporting for Amateurs’ is being offered
by Stockton Council’s Learning and Skills
service at a cost of just £5 and will take place at
Billingham Community Centre on Thursday 21
May from 6pm to 8pm.
Paul said: “I’m delighted to be able to do this
workshop. People often think we just get paid
to watch football but there’s a lot more to it than
that!
“With so much going on during any given match
it can be very difficult to get the balance just
right.
“This will be a really enjoyable session for
football fans who want to be able to create their
own match reports that everyone is keen to read.”
Also on offer this summer is a whole diverse
range of learning opportunities.
From basic car maintenance to cocktail
mixing, from photography to first aid – there is
something for everyone to get involved with.
The workshops are held at either Billingham
Community Centre or Kiora Hall in Roseworth, all at
affordable prices.
To view the full list of courses open for enrolment,
visit www.stockton.gov.uk/adulteducation or call 01642
527904.
Alternatively, learners can call into Billingham
Community Centre, The Causeway, TS23 2DA for
more information.
4
MAY/JUN 2015
Appeal For Foster Carers
STOCKTON Council is appealing for more people to
think about becoming foster carers to help support
some of the most vulnerable young people in the area.
There are around 380 children and young people
across Stockton on Tees who, for various reasons,
cannot live with their birth families and need to be
looked after.
There is a shortage of foster carers across Stockton-onTees needed to look after children of primary school
age and teenagers, as well as groups of brothers and
sisters to avoid separating them.
More carers are also needed to foster children on a
long-term basis until they reach adulthood and are
able to live independently.
Many people rule themselves out of fostering before
even making an enquiry.
In fact, there is no upper age limit to foster you can
be any age, as long as you’re over 26. You can also
be single or divorced, gay or lesbian, employed or
unemployed, and a homeowner or tenant. Other
factors such as ethnicity and religion do not prevent
you from fostering.
Jackie Ward, Child Placement team manager at
Stockton Council, said: “Children and young people
come into care for a wide range of reasons but all come
needing professional and compassionate support.
“Our foster carers are inspirational people who open
their homes to some of the most vulnerable and
disadvantaged children and young people. Many
say it’s the best thing they’ve ever done, however we
urgently need more people to think about fostering
and we’d encourage people to make an enquiry with
the Council or come along to our event.”
If you would like more information about fostering
and adoption, call Stockton Council’s Child Placement
team on (01642) 526218 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk
Students celebrate success
A GROUP of Prince’s Trust students
have proven just how much their
confidence has grown as they stood
in front of a room full of people to
showcase their latest achievements.
The five Team members all picked up
a nationally recognised qualification
after successfully completing the
youth charity’s 12-week Team
programme.
The short course, which is delivered
by Stockton Riverside College, aims
to help unemployed young people,
aged 16 to 25, to build the skills and
confidence they need to find a job or
return to education.
Team member Susie Walls, 19, of
Billingham, said: “It has really helped
me to decide what I want to do next.
It has given me more confidence and
I have made some of the greatest
friends.”
Offering the opportunity to develop
new skills, the personal development
course sees Team members take part
in a number of tasks and challenges,
including a community project,
a work placement and five-day
adventure residential.
During their time on the programme
the Billingham Team helped
redecorate some of the facilities and
garden at the Low Grange Resource
Centre.
Liam Thwaites, 19, of Billingham,
said: “The course has given me more
confidence in a group and I have
gained some work experience.”
Hayden Wardle, 16, also from
Billingham, was so inspired by the
experience he volunteered to help out
on the town’s next Prince’s Trust Team
programme.
“I decided to do the course because I
thought it would help me before going
to college,” he said.
“Now I am becoming a volunteer, with
the hope of one day going on to a future
career with the Prince’s Trust.”
Stockton Riverside College delivers
Prince’s Trust Team programmes in
Billingham, Stockton, Middlesbrough,
Coulby Newham, Darlington and
Bishop Auckland.
The course is free, students can still
claim their existing benefits if eligible,
and there are no entry requirements.
For details about the course or to sign
up call 01642 865566, go to www.
stockton.ac.uk/src-courses/vocationalcourses/prince-s-trust or find out more
by taking a look at the Facebook group,
SRC Prince’s Trust Team.
RSPB Saltholme Charity Zip
Wire Challenge
See Teesside from the top of the
the world and help the
RSPB connect more children with nature.
Enter your company team in the
RSPB Saltholme Zip Wire Challenge
on 27 September 2015 - taking a zip
wire from the top of the Transporter
Bridge across the Tees – and raise
money for RSPB Saltholme,
tholme, near
Stockton-on-Tees.
Funds raised will enable the nature
reserve to support and deliver
important education work with
primary schools in Teesside.
Sadly, in today’s society, only
1 in 10 children plays outside
regularly, and so never gets to
connect with nature.
RSPB Saltholme welcomes around
3500 children every year,, giving them
the chance to experience nature first
hand, such as pond dipping and minimini
beast safaris.
he team which raises the most
The
sponsorship for the nature reserve
will be awarded a special ‘Zip Wire
Challenge’ trophy.
Image credit: Vertical Events
How to get involved?
Each team needs to be made up of
three people from your organisation
(each
each organisation can have more than
one team).. There is an entry fee of
£150 per team, payable in advance.
advance
The RSPB is also asking each team
member to try to raise at least £40 of
additional sponsorship. A sponsor form
can be provided, or fundraising can be
done through Just Giving.
For more details or to register a team,
contact:
Mike Harris, Community & Corporate
Partnerships Manager
[email protected]
07738 029905
Visit rspb.org.uk/saltholme
uk/saltholme
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654
SC03
AJ LANDSCAPES
Left to right: Susie Walls, Assistant Team Leader Chris Smith, Holly Brown,
Hayden Wardle, Connor Randall, and Liam Thwaites
If you have news stories,please email us at:
news@billingham
Call Anthony Ayre
07912 228 279
MAY/JUN 2015
VE Day 70th
Anniversary
Friday 8 May 2015 marked the anniversary of VE Day (Victory in
Europe Day), marking 70 years since the end of the second world war in
Europe.
The occasion was be commemorated with events across the UK
including here in Billingham, where Revd Bill Braviner led prayers in
remembrance at the Cenotaph, Standard Bearers of the Royal British
Legion were in attendance, local schools laid wreaths and the face of
our local Poppy Appeal for 2014/15 Grace Franklin also laid a wreath in
remembrance of those who gave their lives that we may know freedom.
The Royal British Legion is a big family – all supporting the Armed
Forces Community. RBL is a benevolent charity giving help to those
most in need throughout the whole year, the nation’s custodian of
remembrance.
If you need help or support, Billingham branch of Royal British Legion
meet in Low Grange Community Centre every Tuesday and Thursday
morning
RBL VE Day
Commemorations
Staff from Northfield School and Sports Academy proudly took newly
appointed Head Boy (Harvey Duffield) and Girl (Aoife Duckers),
Deputy Head Boy (Nicholas Yiannoulis) and Girl (Maisie Narroway)
and Head Prefect (Charlie Smith) to the Memorial Park in Billingham
to take part in a VE Day Commemorative Service organised by the
Royal British Legion. Teacher Emma Renwick said ‘Our Head Boy
and Girl did a reading about a soldier’s experience of war and the
Deputy Head Boy, Girl and Head Prefect laid a wreath on behalf of the
school. The students felt privileged to be part of the ceremony and will
remember this as their first public engagement in their new roles, we are
very proud of them representing our school.’
5
6
HOW TO BOOK
FOR THE FESTIVAL TICKETS AND EVENTS
FESTIVAL BOX OFFICE IS NOW OPEN
Argentina
Compania de Danzas Mitimaes
BY PHONE or by E.MAIL: Telephone 01642 553 220 or e.mail us on
[email protected] to pre-book your tickets and pay by
cheque or Postal Order. Reserved tickets will be held for up to ten
working days until we receive your payment and SAE. All cheques and
Postal Orders should be made payable to “BIFF LTD” and sent to: BIFF
Ltd., Stockton Business Centre, 70 Brunswick Street, Stockton-on-Tees
TS18 1DW.
Brazil
IN PERSON: Call into the Festival Box Office at 5 West Precinct, Billingham
Town Centre. OPENING TIMES: Monday-Saturday 10.30am until 2.00pm
You can pay by Cheque, Postal Order or cash.
Ballet Folklorico Tupa Marka
ONLINE: www.billinghamfestival.co.uk/store
You can book your Festival tickets online using your Credit/Debit Card
with Paypal Secure Payment.
BOOK DIRECTLY AT:
Middlesbrough Theatre Box Office: 01642 815181
Mon – Sat 10am – 2pm;
Forum Theatre, Billingham Box Office: 01642 552663. Mon – Sat
10am - 6pm www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk;
For Crypt at the Town Hall, Middlesbrough Box Office: 01642
729729 www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk;
NOTES:
● Once purchased tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded.
● There is a limited amount of space for wheelchairs at all concerts. So
please make clear that wheelchair access is required before
booking.
● Copyright assigned to Billingham Festival, therefore flash
photography or video recording is strictly prohibited in the theatres
and at all evening events without the permission of the Festival
Director.
● In case of inclement weather, if the outdoor festival arena concerts is
cancelled one hour before the start, the tickets will be refunded.
● Once a concert has started and has to be abandoned due to
unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the Organising
Committee there will be no refunds.
● Programme of events. In the event of unforeseen circumstances the
Festival Organising Committee reserves the right to make alterations
to the published programme of events and appearing groups.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL THE
FESTIVAL OFFICE ON 01642 553220
OR SEE OUR WEB SITE: www.billinghamfestival.co.uk
Book your tickets on-line or visit our shop at:
www.billinghamfestival.co.uk/store
Grupo Banze
Chile
Billingham
International Folklore
Festival of World Dance
8th - 15th August 2015
China
Lanzhou Star Dance Ensemble
Mexico
Compania Mexicana de Danzas
Folkloricas
Philippines/USA
Philippine Performing Arts
Company
Serbia
Folk Dance Ensemble Zore
USA
Bailey Mountain Cloggers
UK
Balbir Singh Dance Company
Fosbrooks
Bellamy School of Ballet
Tapshoes & Tutus
DEVEREUX
TRANSPORT AND DISTRIBUTION
Britannia
Devereux of Cleveland
MAY/JUN 2015
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
China
Mexico
Philippines
Serbia
USA
www.billinghamfestival.co.uk
Our Food Bank
Needs You
Jill and Alan Coyle took over the running of Billingham
Food Bank at the end of October 2014 as Kevin and Hazael
Hornsby moved on to a new mission in the south of
England.
Jill said ‘We are so grateful for the continued support we
receive from everyone in Billingham but do ask that they
remember us when they shop as we survive only by the
generosity of residents and businesses that surround us.’
Billingham Food Bank is open Tuesday’s and Thursday’s 11
am – 2 pm providing not only much needed food but advice
and support for those in need. Citizen’s Advice Bureau
operate during opening times as does the Credit Union.
Jill added ‘We also take donations of clothing, for some of
our families the luxury of new clothing is not an option,
food and rent always being the first priority, so to be able
to access a range of clothing, for men, women and children
also provides help at times of need.’
The food bank is not designed to be a permanent source
of support, rather a route towards getting a family back
on their feet, finding solutions to a host of problems that
can render any one of us into a place of vulnerability due
to circumstances beyond our control. Unemployment,
redundancy, unforeseen expense – including family
bereavement, sickness, isolation – can all create financial
pressures, so the support of Jill and her team means help at
a time when there appears to be no hope – a place where
you and your family will receive the support you need, for as
long as you need it.
If you want to find out more about Billingham Food Bank,
how to donate, or gain help, please call Jill on 0758375522
who will be happy to hear from you.
MAY/JUN 2015
7
Race for Quality Furniture Since 1902
BCN received a call from Iain Race after a customer left
a copy of our paper in Holmes and Race Furniture Store
on Borough Road recently. Iain said he hadn’t realised that
BCN existed but as most of his customer base came from
Billingham and had done for generations, please could we
go and see him.
The family, pictured above, are 4th generation and have
only recently returned to where the family story all began
over 100 years ago.
Iain said ‘We’ve always been a family firm and our
customers are like good friends, some have stayed with us
for years and years too. Our store is a bit like the tardis with
different floors and rooms that run off each other – much
bigger than we actually look from the outside of the store,
this enables us to showcase whole ranges of furniture,
enough to suit every taste.’
Stuart Brown and Nathan Learman, both friends of the
family, work in the warehouse and on deliveries, which are
free to Billingham. There is also scope to book Stuart and
Nathan for construction if, like us, you’re not a whizz with
a screwdriver, or struggle to move the furniture into the
correct position.
Iain stated ‘We provide old fashioned customer service,
that means taking time to understand what it is the clients
wants, working with delivery times that suits their life style
and helping with after sales to ensure they are happy with
their purchases. We get so much business by word of mouth
and that is all down to our quality products and service.’
Front L-R Beth Race, Iain Race and Gill Race, back L-R Stuart Brown, Aidan Robinson, Nathan Learman
8
MAY/JUN 2015
Hereford Terrace, Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees, TS23 4AA
Telephone: 01642 564077
Dr Khan KDBO Meeting
Last edition we discussed the great work Dr Khan delivers here in
Billingham, as well as the huge difference he has made fighting kid’s blood
diseases in Mansehra in Pakistan.
Following the successful presentation in Hereford Terrace to local groups,
businesses, organisations and residents, Dr Khan offered to host a ‘curry
night’ in Billingham South Community Centre on East Avenue and share
ideas on how our community could help support the charity KBDO in
Pakistan.
Since the meeting in Hereford Terrace, Kevin Pitt (BELP Strategic
Director), Jacky Pitt (BELP Finance Manager) Jennifer Franklin
(BELP Director and Operational Manager) and June Campbell (BELP
Administration and IT Manager) all volunteered their time and service to
the KBDO Charity, offering their business skills to Dr Khan in development
and operational support for a UK arm to the charity.
Dr Khan said ‘I am so grateful that the community have come together
to help another community so many miles away in Pakistan. This support
is more than I could have imagined in such a short space of time, although
there is still so much to be done.’
As a reminder Dr Khan has been working in Mansehra Pakistan during his
holidays since 2008 to help the charity KBDO which is ‘Kids Blood Diseases
Organisation’. He travels there at his own expense and pays all his own
costs for accommodation and food as he helps in the local clinic, that has
developed from a ‘single room’ when it opened in 1998 to a 5 storey building
that is now treating over 280 children with blood transfusions, some weekly
and some fortnightly.
Mansehra is a more rural location where it is still common for inter
family marriages to take place, something in the UK we would find socially
unacceptable but, due to poor education and being more isolated in this area
of Pakistan, families fail to understand that inter family marriage can cause
the blood condition thalassemia.
Thalassemia without treatment by blood transfusions is likely to lead
to early childhood deaths, typically 4 – 5 year old. However, with safely
administrated blood transfusions, life expectancy can increase up to 50 years
of age. We of course take our medical service in the NHS for granted at times
but seeing the hardship caused by the debilitating condition.
For only £1000.00 a female doctor could be recruited to help treat and
Grace
Franklin
Attends Pentland
Primary School
education women earlier about the risks of thalassemia and inter family
marriages, just £7.50 would pay for one child to receive blood transfusion
treatments for a month – what does that equate to – 2 pints of beer or a packet
of cigarettes………what is a life worth?
Dr Khan hopes that will local support, that a 5 year plan to try and help
develop the clinic could be implemented. Could you be a part of making that
plan work? Could you help to fundraise for this cause, or consider sponsoring
a child’s blood transfusion, pay for a doctor for a week, a month or 6 months?
Perhaps you could buy a piece of equipment, maybe you discard laboratory
equipment that could still be used in the clinic – whatever it is, please do think
how you could help not only provide much needed service and healthcare but
better education to help reduce the number of inter family marriages.
If you can help, please contact us by emailing news@
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk or call 01642 564077 and we will pass
on your details to Dr Khan.
Get Healthy Hearts
Beating in Billingham
Statistics tell us that many people over the age of 40, right here in
our community, are failing to access simple and free Healthy Heart
checks that aim to help lower your risk of experiencing the most
common but, often preventable conditions, namely heart disease,
suffering a stroke, diabetes and kidney disease.
To help with accessibility for our busy lifestyles, our GP practices
and community pop-up clinics are running a host of Healthy
Heart sessions. All you have to do is get your heart checked. On
completion of your check up, you will then be issued with a ‘token’
which you can donate to a participating school. At the end of the
project the school with the most tokens will be in line for the top
prize of £1000.
As part of this ongoing Healthy Heart project, we currently have
11 local primary schools participating so get busy and book your
check up today, you will be helping our schools as they strive to
win cash prizes to buy equipment or access a range of activities that
you, our readers, could help them win! All you have to do as our
schools strive for that top prize of £1000 is have your heart checked!
Let’s ensure everyone joins in with Healthy Hearts Campaign in
Billingham, call your GP or visit one of the pop up clinics today.
All schools entered the Healthy Hearts Poster Competition,
project coordinator Kim Peacock said ‘I was overwhelmed by the
response to the poster competition from the children for ‘Healthy
Hearts’ which saw over 460 entries submitted. All the winners
received a certificate and a prize in the following categories:
Grace has already done some amazing things
in her life, even though she is still at primary
school, she has compiled 2 books (Little
Book of Jokes) to raise money for the Royal
British Legion, attended a NATO summit, met
Michael Fallon the Defence Secretary and now
into the bargain, has her own website called
‘Let’s Make a Promise’. In this edition of BCN
Grace is telling us why she feels proud.
Feeling Proud
I feel proud to live in Billingham. I think that
Billingham is full of wonderful people with
wonderful dreams and wonderful hearts. There
is a boy in my class called Joe Thackeray, who
without being asked, wanted to raise some
money for a little girl called Nell.
Nell is a beautiful girl who has recently
been diagnosed with Retts Syndrome. At
the moment there is no cure, which is heart
breaking. Joe is going to run the mini Great
North run to help raise awareness of Retts
Syndrome and raise some money for Nell,
which is great and good luck Joe.
If you would like to help Joe raise some
money for Nell please donate at
http://www.gofundme.com/hope4nellbyjoe
Remember it only takes people to do one
thing for someone else to make a difference in
the world. So whether it’s doing
something big or something small let’s all make
a promise to do something to make someone
else happy because together we can change the
world.
Can you commit to ‘Let’s make a Promise’
and do something, if so, write into the
newspaper and tell us about it, or email news@
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Don’t Delay and Book Your
Healthy Heart Check Today!
Eligibility criteria applies, aged between 40-74, no pre-existing heart
conditions and must not have had a healthy heart check in the last 5 years.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
@BillinghamWorkC
@The_Place_In_Billingham
MAY/JUN 2015
9
10
MAY/JUN 2015
New College Opens its
Doors in Billingham
YOUNG visitors were given the chance to try their
hand at a range of new courses as The Skills Academy
opened its doors for the first time.
An open day saw prospective students get a taste of
college-life at the brand new purpose-built learning
facility now available in Billingham.
Academy manager Lorna McLean said: “The whole
ethos of the Academy is based on its students being
able to gain practical skills, using hard work and
determination to succeed, and in doing so, building
confidence and getting ready for their next steps in the
trade, or area they have chosen to explore.”
Delivering a range of introductory vocational
courses in subjects including Creative Arts and Media,
Construction, Health and Social Care and Childcare,
underpinned by English and Maths, The Skills Academy
offers a new option for school leavers and young people,
aged 16 to 18, looking to carve a path to their future
careers.
Situated on the old Billingham Campus site, the
development of The Skills Academy followed a
successful application for Education Funding Agency
(EFA) funding by Stockton Borough Council in
partnership with Egglescliffe School. It will be run, and
the curriculum delivered, by Stockton Riverside College.
Applications are now being taken for courses starting
this September, for more information go to: www.
stockton.ac.uk/skillsacademy or call 01642 607464.
Peter English
Flooring
NEW CARPET &
FLOORING SHOP
OPEN NOW IN BILLINGHAM
TOWN CENTRE
OPPOSITE THE POST OFFICE
We are a reliable professional carpet & flooring
suppliers & installers with over 30 years of
experience. We work with our customers to
give them the floor to be proud of.
High Grange Mother and Toddler
A chance meeting in a park saw
a friendship blossom for child
minders Clare Jackson and Pam
Briggs. As they chatted they
realised that although they both
loved their jobs, they missed some
adult company and thought other
mum’s and carers must feel the
same way. A little idea brewed until
they both decided to make it a
reality with the launch of a Mother
and Toddler Group at High Grange
Community Centre on Casson
Way. Already there are over 30
regular attendees on Monday and
Thursday mornings, so don’t be shy
– pop along to one of the sessions
and make yourself some new
friends while the children play.
If you have news stories, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunity newspaper.co.uk
We specialise in:
• Wood flooring
• Plywood fitting
• Laminate flooring
• Floor screeding
• Carpet
• Floor dampproofing
• Vinyl
• Door’s cut to new floor height
• Amtico
• Kitchen’s kick boards cut
to new floor height
• Karndean
• Polyflor
• Skirtingboard fitting
We are experienced in working in commercial
& domestic properties so you can be sure we
will get the job done and get it done right.
PETER ENGLISH FLOORING
116 Queensway,
Billingham Town Centre
TS23 2LT
01642 552100
www.flooringpete.co.uk
fl[email protected]
CONTACT US NOW FOR
A FREE ESTIMATE
MAY/JUN 2015
Billingham Churches Together
Perspectives from the Presbytery by Fr John Butters
The election is over. The votes cast. The result is
in. Promises, promises now must give way to action.
Words come cheap; the real test is what happens, what
actions are taken.
Jesus once said “by their fruits you shall know
them”- what are the fruits, the actions we need to see
from the new Government? The voters have given
them authority now they must accept responsibility.
Those in power have a duty to everyone in our
country but especially the weakest, the most
vulnerable.
The test for the goodness of any community is its
outreach to those most in need.
Talk of the “Big Society” or the “Common Good”
must be translated into individual care. The dignity
and the value of each person is the bedrock of a
civilised society. “Who is my neighbour?” This
famous question in the Gospel evoked from Jesus
the parable of the Good Samaritan- my neighbour is
anyone in need of any kind.
Our new Government must remind by its own
example that each of us has the duty to care for others,
at home and abroad, to the best of our ability. It’s time
for action based on good and sound values.
Hope 4 Nell Birthday Challenge for Pastor Cliff
On the 6 th July Cliff Henderson Senior Minister
of New Life Church in Billingham will celebrate his
65 th birthday, it will be a birthday that he is unlikely
to forget, for on this day he will also set out on the
biggest physical challenge of his life, as he intends to
cycle the length of the country from Land’s End to
John O’ Groats, a distance of nearly 1000 miles, with
four other members of his congregation.
Cliff is doing the cycle ride to raise sponsorship
for one of his 4 grandchildren Nell who has just
celebrated her 2 nd birthday in May. Nell was
diagnosed with Rett Syndrome a rare neurological
disorder in November 2014. Cliff said ‘I had not
heard of Rett Syndrome until Nell was diagnosed and
I want to do all that I can to help Nell have the best
life she possibly can have and also to raise awareness
of this dreadful disorder.’
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that
affects 1 in 10,000 girls, at around 6-18 months of
age their development begins to regress, and things
that Nell used to be able to do she can do no longer.
This syndrome leaves many girls unable to walk,
hold things, chew or swallow food, and nearly all
lose their speech. It is a life limiting condition with
possibilities of seizures and breathing difficulties, Cliff
said ‘Imagine the symptoms of autism, cerebral palsy,
Parkinson’s, Epilepsy, and Anxiety disorder all in one
little girl – that’s Rett!’.
Whilst there is no cure or treatment for Rett
Syndrome major breakthroughs have been
accomplished by top scientists and belief is, that a
cure is not far away Rett has been reversed in mice,
it has been shown that if the missing protein can
be replaced then the loss of skills can be undone.
Scientists are working hard to find a solution to make
Rett Syndrome the first neurological disorder to be
treatable; Cliff said I pray for such a cure every day for
Nell and other girls with Rett Syndrome.
Cliff along with John Lunn and Syd Pinkney hope
to raise £10,000 of sponsorship for the ride. Cliff
stated that the people of Teesside have already been
magnificent in helping Nell with various fundraising
events, and their love and kindness has been greatly
appreciated by all the family. This ‘end to end’ challenge
is my way of showing my support and also raising
awareness about girls with Rett.
Alan and Jill Coyle who manage the Billingham
Food Bank will also be doing the cycle ride, this will
be the second time that Alan and Jill will have done
this challenge, the last time was 2 yrs ago, with Alan
celebrating his 69th birthday during the ride. The
sponsorship Alan and Jill raise will be donated to the
Billingham Food Bank to continue to help those in
need. If members of the public would like to sponsor
the riders for one or both of these causes then please go
to the web links below to help.
Cliff stated that the overnight accommodation
covering every overnight stop for the 5 riders has
all been supplied by the generosity of churches of
all denominations who have all agreed to give free
accommodation in the homes of their people and an
evening meal to the riders on route. The ride starts at
Ashbrooke Staff Brave Transporter
Land’s End on Monday 6th July and is due to finish at
John O Groats on Monday 20 th July the riders cycling
an averaging of 80 miles per day.
Hope 4 Nell. Please visit www.gofundme.com/jjtyuk
or send to FAO Cliff Henderson, New Life Church,
Low Grange Avenue Billingham TS23 3DP
Billingham Food Bank website (follow the link) to
the Just Giving Page or send to Alan and Jill Coyle
Managers Billingham Food Bank 4-6 West Precinct,
Billingham Town Centre TS23 2NH
Ten members of staff from Ashbourne Lodge Care Home in Billingham braved the
challenging walk up and over the iconic Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough all in a good
cause. Tackling the 160 ft bridge, staff raised a massive £1144.50 for their residents Comfort
Fund, which was truly superb especially as many of the participants were afraid of heights
but pushed on through their fear, knowing they would be helping the elderly people they
care for every day at Ashbourne Lodge.
The money raised will provide their Dementia Unit with much needed Sensory and
Reminiscence equipment which will improve the daily living for residents who need 24/7
care and support.
If anyone would like to donate to the Residents Comfort Fund and help with the purchase of
Sensory and Reminiscence Equipment, please call 01642 556420 and speak to the activities
coordinator Sarah Robinson
News in Brief
Synthonia Male Voice
Choir
Members are now rehearsing regularly
with Stockton Male Voice Choir and
giving concerts together.
The next one will be at Green’s Lane
Methodist Church, Hartburn on
Saturday 13th June at 7.30pm followed by
an event in the Tabernacle, Stockton on
Friday 26th June at 7pm in aid of SSAFA.
The concert features the Durham
Constabulary Choir and guest artistes tickets £12 from the Tabernacle.
Sadly, Dr Gordon Angus, who has
been accompanist to the choir for over
20 years, will be retiring at the end of
June. We will all miss him but wish him
a happy retirement. He has contributed
so much and could always be relied upon
to turn up at rehearsals and concerts. As
yet no one has been appointed to take his
place - anyone who is interested please
contact the Musical Director on 01642
363502
Some joint rehearsals with Stockton
MVC will take place during the summer
months to prepare for concerts arranged
for September to December - if you
would like to book us to entertain your
group, please contact Gordon Clements
on 01642 785115 For more information
re rehearsals etc please visit www.
synthoniamalevoicechoir.org.uk
Royal British Legion
Cliff Henderson – Hope 4 Nell - John O Groats to
Land’s End Cycle Team
New Life for Old
Mini Bus
When the congregation of New Life Pentecostal Church purchased a
new mini for their Church and Resource Centre use, there was no problem
finding a good home for the ‘old bus’in the community.
Pictured here L-R Senior Church Leader Luke Taylor, Pastor Cliff
Henderson and BELP Directors Jennifer Franklin and Kevin Pitt.
Jennifer said ‘We are really grateful to Cliff and Luke for thinking of us
and the work we do at Billingham Environmental Links Projects. We will
certainly give the mini bus a new lease of life with the constant trips we
make between centres in Billingham through to Port Clarence. This will
make is easier for so many people to access services and support.’
Pictured here are all the staff members who completed the transporter
challenge, Sarah Robinson, Lindsay Donaldson, Shirley Whinn, Karen Fletcher,
Sammy Thompson, Emma Chapman, Julie Lockey, Paul Angel, Cheryl
Lofthouse, Gordon Harper, Reece Goodchild.
11
The Royal British Legion Billingham
Branch would like to thank the people of
Billingham, Wolviston and the Clarences
for their overwhelming generosity,
during our Poppy Appeal in 2014,
particularly in these hard and difficult
times, giving these thanks, we do not
forget the children in the schools, who
also gave so generously. The total amount
raised for the Poppy Appeal in 2014 was:£31674.35, Amazing when you consider
the population of The Borough. This
amount was £9251.57 more than 2013.
Our thanks also go to our members who
worked hard and long during the Poppy
Fortnight and all those who showed
their support. The Royal British Legion
work 365 days a year to help and support
serving and ex service personnel of our
armed forces and their families.
Anyone wishing further information
should contact Billingham Branch
Secretary, Peter Clark 07745611228,
or come and join us for a chat and a
coffee at the Community Centre on Low
Grange Avenue on Tuesday and Thursday
mornings.
Dragonboat Racing
14 June 2015 - Powerhouse Dragonboat
Racing is hosting national league
event on Sunday 14 June 2015 being
held at PDBRC’s base at the River
Tees Watersports Centre (RTWC),
The Slipway, North Shore, Stockton,
TS18 2NE. If you require any further
information you may peak direct to
Allyson Butterfield, who is PDBRC’s crew
manager on 07826353723, or Graham
Butterfield, who is the team coach and
event organiser, on 01642 291356.
If you have
news stories,
please email
us at:
news@billingham
12
MAY/JUN 2015
SRC Bede Sixth Form College: 01642 373250
London visit proves top class
IT is amazing what you can
squeeze in to four days. Just
ask this bunch of SRC Bede
Sixth Form students.
The English Language,
English Literature, Theatre
Studies and Art students paid
a visit to London to see some
of the cultural highlights of the
capital.
“The aim of the trip was to
help develop the students’
cultural awareness by visiting
galleries and historical
landmarks,” said SRC Bede
Sixth Form’s Teacher of
English Language and Classics,
Hannah Petheram.
The excursion was part of
the college’s extensive calendar
of annual trips and events,
organised to bring lessons
learnt in the classroom to life.
APPLY NOW!
OFSTED GOOD
THERE’S STILL TIME
During the whistle stop tour
of the capital students visited
top attractions including
the Tate Modern, The Globe
Theatre, Madame Tussauds,
The British Museum and
London Zoo, to name but a
few. And, of course, the group
were given some time for a
spot of souvenir shopping.
“Everyone seemed to enjoy
themselves,” said Hannah.
“And we certainly managed to
fit a lot in.”
Want to know more about
the fantastic range of A
level and additional courses
available at SRC Bede Sixth
Form? Go to www.stockton.
ac.uk/src-bede or call 01642
373 250.
Applications are still being
taken for September starts.
L
TRAVE EE
R
FOR F Marsh House Ave ‫ ׀‬Billingham ‫ ׀‬TS23 3HB ‫ ׀‬01642 373 250 ‫ ׀‬www.stockton.ac.uk/src-bede
A Monstrously Good Show
IT’S no secret that at Stockton
Riverside College they really know
how to put on a show.
So when it came to their latest
performance, a three day run of the
hit musical, Little Shop of Horrors,
expectations were already high.
Needless to say, the team of
young performers didn’t fail to
impress. In fact the show lifted
the bar yet again, as the musical
brought together students from all
of the College’s Performing Arts
courses.
And, for the first time, in a
show of this scale, students from
Stockton Riverside College and
SRC Bede Sixth Form, performed
alongside each other in leading
roles.
“It was amazing to see,” said BA
Hons Performing Arts course
leader and Theatre Studies teacher,
Michele Plews. “It was fantastic to
bring together students from both
sites, to perform in one show.”
The result, she said, was a
showcase of all the Performing
Arts courses Stockton Riverside
College and SRC Bede Sixth
Form has to offer, from the BTEC
courses to A level, Foundation
Degree and even the BA Hons
top-up award,
delivered in
partnership
with Teesside
University.
Taking the
lead roles of
Seymour and
Audrey in this
dark comedy
was Performing Arts Foundation
Degree student, Rhys Hammond
Booth, and SRC Bede Sixth Form’s
A level Theatre Studies student,
Jasmine Spence.
Rhys said: “It was hard work, but
it was worth it. It was an amazing
show to be part of.”
Course leader Michele said: “For
many students this was their first
time working with a set of this
size and complexity.”
And, she added, that performing
alongside a talking “man-eating
plant” brought with it its own
demands, but the result was pretty
spectacular.
To find out more about the
Performing Arts courses on offer
at Stockton Riverside College and
SRC Bede Sixth Form go to www.
stockton.ac.uk or www/Stockton.
ac.uk/src-bede.
Students put politics in the spotlight
WHEN it comes to politics students at
SRC Bede Sixth Form have proven that
they really know their stuff.
The students put their political nous to
the test with their own series of Question
Time style debates.
The events formed part of a mock
election, organised by the College to
encourage all of its young people to engage
in the General Election.
Teacher of Government and Politics,
Carl Mustill, said: “The idea was to
not only broaden the knowledge and
experience of those students actively
involved, but also to help educate all of
our young people.”
With students representing five of the
UK’s main political parties, the events
at SRC Bede Sixth Form and Stockton
Riverside College, saw students go headto-head in front of live audiences.
Parties represented in the mock election
were the Conservatives, Labour, Liberal
Democrats, the UK Independence Party
and the Green Party. While the student
candidate presented their own campaign
strategies, their policies had to be broadly
in line with those of the relevant political
APPLY NOW for SEPT 2015
party. “All of the students did amazingly well,”
said Carl. “They really knew their stuff and
each put their points across in an intelligent
and informed manner.”
www.stockton.ac.uk/src-bede
MAY/JUN 2015
Education
Junior Senior Leadership Team have been Elected
The outcome of the general election wasn’t the only eagerly awaited result at
Northfield over the past weeks. The school was appointing its Junior Leadership
Team for 2015-16. Students had to apply by letter and then face a rigorous interview
with senior members of staff. “This year, the quality of the applicants is the highest
we’ve ever had” said Headteacher, Craig Walker. “I have no doubt that every one of
the students who made the final shortlist would have made excellent Head Boys and
Girls. I am delighted that Northfield has so many students of such a high calibre. I
can say that the interview panel had a very difficult task in selecting the students.” The
successful students were: Head Boy: Harvey Duffield, Head Girl: Aoife Duckers,
Deputy Head Boy: Nick Yiannoulis, Deputy Head Girl: Maisie Narroway and Head
Prefect: Charlie Smith.
Year 11 Cuts Off Hair for Charity
Unlike most hair conscious girls her age, Year 11 student Kelsey decided
that she wanted to do something good for others and raise money for
charity, resulting in a staggering 9 inches being cut from her hair!
After deciding upon her brave and difficult choice of fund raising activity,
Kelsey had to make the even harder decision of which worthy cause to
donate the money to. Fittingly, Kelsey chose The Little Princess Trust: an
organisation which provides real hair wigs to boys and girls across the UK
and Ireland that have sadly lost their own hair through cancer treatment.
An amazing £150 was raised, donated by friends and family. When asked
about her fundraising, Kelsey said: “It feels good to help other people. I
would have got it all cut off but I wasn’t sure the school would allow it.”
A great gesture for a great cause. Well done Kelsey!
13
Northfield News
Year Seven Bag
Pack in the local
community
On Saturday 25th April, 28 Year 7 pupils went to Tesco in Billingham to
pack customer’s bags in order to raise money for our school charity: The
Future Fund. Some pupils packed bags for up to six hours, trying to do their
bit to raise money to fund cutting edge research into childhood cancer. Pupils
thoroughly enjoyed the day working in the local community and helping lots
of different people. They did an excellent job and their packing skills were
commented on by Tesco staff who were impressed at the pupils’ polite and
helpful attitude towards customers.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable day for all. The pupils were really pleased to
be working so close with the local community and offering help where they
could. The customers at Tesco were extremely generous in their donations;
they seemed impressed by what the pupils were hoping to achieve and their
knowledge and understanding of the charity. Overall, the pupils raised an
impressive £853 which means Year 7 have raised in total £2092 so far this year
for the Future Fund.
Year 9 Boys’ football team
wins the Stockton District Cup
Northfield’s Year 9 boy’s football team beat Egglescliffe in the final to
win the Stockton District Cup. To qualify, the boys had to finish in the
top 4 in the league. They played St Michael’s in the semi-final and won
2-0 thanks to a strong defensive performance and goals from Damien
Scott and Kai Gingell. Our team then played Egglescliffe in the final and
won 2-1. Joe Moon gave us the lead before captain Matthew Adamson
finished superbly from 20 yards. Ben Metcalfe made two fantastic saves
to keep us in front before Egglescliffe scored a consolation goal, 30
seconds from the end. Mr Martin, the boys’ coach, was delighted with
the result: “The boys have worked really hard and played really well this
year. A very well deserved result.”
Year 8 English class achieve National Accreditation
Miss Silivistris’s 8t/E1 achieved ‘Model Class’ for their
efforts in the Renaissance Learning’s Accelerated Reading
(AR) scheme. Northfield’s Year 8 English class are one of only
100 other classes in the whole of the United Kingdom to be
featured on the Honour Roll.
The AR scheme involves all students in Year 7 and 8
borrowing a book suited to their reading ability and then
completing a quiz once finished. AR promotes improvement
in reading, encourages reading for passion as well as
developing important literacy skills necessary for pupils’
futures. To achieve the status, 8t/E1 had to average over
twenty minutes reading time per day with 90% of the class
having to average over 85% in their quiz scores over a 12
week period. Not an easy feat!
Mr Bowden, Northfield’s AR Leader, was delighted about
the group’s achievement: “This is something Miss Silivistris
and I have been pushing the students to achieve for a long
time and we are very pleased they have been able to do so.”
The result is a testament to the dedication and competitive
spirit of all students in the class. The next challenge is to
achieve ‘Master Class’, of which only nine classes in the
United Kingdom have accomplished. Good luck 8t/E1!
If you have stories about your college or school, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunity newspaper.co.uk
14
Education
St Michael’s Alex Cunningham MP Visit
POLITICALLY minded students have quizzed their
local campaigning MP in the run up to the general
election on a host of issues affecting young people in
their constituency.
Year 9 pupils at St Michael’s Catholic Academy,
Billingham, put incumbent Labour MP for Stockton
North, Alex Cunningham under the spotlight as part
of the BBC News School Report, which helps students
develop their journalistic skills to become school
reporters.
Students Brooke Hewson, 14, Mollie Taylor, 14, Ellie
Rainsley, 13, and Rebecca Dunning, 13, questioned
Mr Cunningham on his role as a politician, his views
on education, green policies and health, as well as
community involvement and votes for 16-year-olds.
St Michael’s Academy English teacher Rebecca
Harris, who organised the MP’s visit said: “As part
of our BBC News School report project we will be
turning our school into a working newsroom, writing
up news reports and uploading them onto the web.
“The students were excited about questioning Mr
Cunningham and also learning about how political
decisions are made about their future and what is
happening in their local area.”
MAY/JUN 2015
St Michael’s News
As well as answering the students’ questions Mr
Cunningham also encouraged the young reporters
to think about where their own goals and ambitions
could take them in the future.
Alex shared “It took me 40 years to become an MP
and be elected to Parliament, I didn’t do very well in
my A levels, but I had drive and determination and I
believed in myself.
I took a journalism course and worked for a
newspaper, then worked for Transco, where I was
given the top job in their PR department, before
running my own communications business and
becoming an MP. It proves you always need to look
forward and it is vital to have some dreams, to hold on
to them and just go for it.”
Head teacher at St Michael’s Academy Andrew
Ramsey added: “We are delighted that Alex took time
out of his very busy schedule to come and talk to our
students.
“I’m sure that by speaking about hisown life and
openly answering students’ questions it will help them
to see what they might achieve in their careers and
Campaigning Labour MP for Stockton North Alex Cunningham with students from St Michael’s
show they have a voice in the world of politics as the
Catholic Academy, Billingham, L-R, Brooke Hewson, Mollie Taylor, , Ellie Rainsley, and
Rebecca Dunning
potential voters of the future.”
UNESCO follow up
St Michael’s Catholic Academy pupil Ross Beall, 15, who spoke about living with
Type 1 diabetes at the UNESCO Youth Forum in St Petersburg, Russia
YOUTH-to-youth communication was on the agenda for
a Teesside student who has addressed teenage delegates at
an international conference in Russia.
St Michael’s Catholic Academy pupil Ross Beall, 15, was
one of only two students to be chosen to represent the UK
at the UNESCO Youth Forum in St Petersburg.
Keen sportsman Ross, of Billingham, who was diagnosed
with type one diabetes when he was three-years-old,
addressed hundreds of young delegates from across the
globe on youth and healthy lifestyles.
“Having diabetes has never held me back in anything,”
said Ross who plays ice hockey for Billingham Stars U16s.
“It’s something that I’m always aware of but, managed
correctly, through monitoring my blood sugar levels and
having regular insulin injections, it doesn’t stop me doing
anything that I want to do.
“It was a complete surprise when I was asked to speak at
the UNESCO Youth Forum. I felt really honoured to have
been chosen and to be able to outline health problems
among young people and submit proposals to the EU and
Russian governments on how to tackle and improve the
situation by pushing for healthier lifestyles.”
Ross was picked to represent the UK after taking part
in the Most Education World Youth Exchange, hosted
by Durham University, where students from Finland,
Germany, Bulgaria, China and the UK took part in week-
long multi-cultural exchange.
“My nan and granddad are from Cyprus and I love travel
and looking at different cultures,” said Ross.
“Going to Russia was a great chance to meet young people
from other countries, learn about their heritage, visit
historical sites and I also got to go to an ice hockey game
while I was out there.
“I still keep in touch with more than 65 international
students who I met on the youth exchange last year and I’ve
made lots more new friends on this visit.”
Ross was accompanied by St Michael’s Academy supply
teacher Michael Briton, of North East charity Youth World
Foundation, and lived with a host family in St Petersburg
during his five-day trip.
“There were more than 25 groups from across Europe
and Russia taking part at the forum and our UK students
finished second overall in the youth group project
competition,” added Mr Briton.
“The forum was organised at an outstanding level with a
number of VIP guests including members of the Russian
Government, EU consulates and the UK Consul in St
Petersburg Rob Kempsell.
“This was Ross’ first international experience abroad
without his parents and in our opinion he managed it
very well. This experience will have helped him to gain
enormous confidence as a young person.”
Former GB Boxer
coaches students
St Michael’s Catholic Academy hosted a special workshop delivered by former GB
boxer Amanda Coulson, to help develop sports coaching and event planning with
Year 8 students.
The GB boxer had been working with a number of schools throughout the region
through Tees Valley sports to develop the next generation of sports coaches.
Amanda’s visit to St Michael’s demonstrated the tremendous amount of sports and
business acumen she has, and the wealth of experience she was able to share with
the Year 8 students.
First bursting onto the International scene in 2004, Amanda’s impressive boxing
career includes gold medals at a number of international events at Crete and Turkey.
She went onto become GB Champion in 2011, win silver medals at three different
European Union Championships and took part in two World Championships
before retiring in late 2012.
She went on to become GB Boxing coach and has worked with some of the world’s
best coaches, intending on taking her coaching to the highest level.
Amanda encouraged students to consider all types of sports activities, including
dancing and Zumba and people’s age and ability when planning their event. As all
the plans come together, the students will host an inter form sporting challenge,
trying to encourage everyone to give sport a go.
Amanda said ‘We hope through initiatives like this we can inspire future sports
leaders and sports coaches as young people develop a passion for a sport, they can
go further and pursue a sporting career too. I’m looking forward to hearing the
results of the inter form challenge.’
MAY/JUN 2015
15
Education
Cake Bake
for Nell
Kind hearted Year 5 students
at Prior’s Mill Primary School,
organised a Cake Bake Sale in
aid of Hope4Nell Appeal. Nell
has a rare neurological disorder
called Rett Syndrome and
children provided a whole host of
delicious home bakes which they
then ‘bought’ back (and of course
ate!) to raise the valuable funds
needed to work towards finding a
cure for this cruel condition. It is
a fantastic achievement when our
young people can show us how
generosity of heart can
help others
Priors Mill Primary School
The Easter
Story at
Prior’s Mill
Priors Mill Primary School
Goblin Hunt at
Billingham South
Billingham South Primary School
BCN were invited to join students at Billingham South
for a magical and mystical experience with outdoor
education specialist trainer Sam Jackson recently.
The sun shone as students, working through a national
curriculum module on ‘mythical creatures’ tried their
hand at making Goblin pictures using wood, flowers
and nearby foliage, building Goblin houses and later
searching for a Dragon’s egg!
The students were keen to show BCN the Goblin
bracelets they had made in class using wool, so that if
they did encounter any mythical creatures they wouldn’t
be afraid. Sam gained his experience working as an
environmental officer for EDF then working extensively
with RSPB before deciding to try self employment.
Sam explained how the combination of classroom and
outdoor activities work together to help young people
understand about the rainforest, woodland parks, colours
and textures and of course always with the fun elements
of creativity and discovery – such as the Dragon’s egg on
this occasion.
The students had a fantastic time and finished off
the session with a spot of outdoor cooking – delicious
marshmallows, perfect for children and goblins!
If you are interested in booking Sam for your school,
call 07950309118 or visit www.scouted.org.uk
Billingham Community Newspaper
were invited to join students at Prior’s
Mill Primary School for a very special
Easter Service.
On entering the school, the reception
area, which is always welcoming, held
a fabulous hand knitted display of
the Last Supper, the craft work and
attention to detail was fantastic, even
including tiny goblets on the table.
The Easter service, conducted by Revd
Bill Braviner and was attended by all
Key Stage 2 children with their parents
Space for Peace with Gill Wild
As BCN visited Prior’s Mill Primary School recently for the Cake
Bake fundraiser, Head Teacher Gill Wild invited us in to a quieter
room so we could talk away from the excitement brewing as money
and cakes changed hands all in a good cause.
We couldn’t help but take this picture as it must be the sum of all
that we are, each and every one of us needing that time and ‘Space
for Peace’. What used to be a store room now ‘felt’ like a haven of
peace, calm, tranquillity, so much so that you could easily believe
that the bustle of school was miles away, instead of just down the
corridor.
Gill explained that in our busy lives, we all need somewhere to sit,
think, talk through or simply be ourselves, the room is now well
used by both staff and children, sometimes to sort issues out but
mostly just to be peaceful..
16
MAY/JUN 2015
Education
FMC Think Safe
at High Clarence
Children at High Clarence Primary School will be a lot
safer walking to and from school with the fantastic range
of Hi Vis School Bags and hats provided by the FMC
Health and Nutrition (Epax) team on Seal Sands.
We wrote last edition about the FMC Think Safe
Campaign for visitors to site and proving that safety isn’t
just for the workplace; the organisation looked at the busy
route for young people in High Clarence and decided to
help with some safety apparel.
Mrs Jean Orridge Head at High Clarence Primary
School said ‘Our school is on a busy road with heavy
goods vehicles passing through every day. The generous
offer by FMC to provide school bags with hi vis strips,
and hi vis hats for each child was a fantastic gesture,
which I am confident will help keep our children safer as
they walk to and from school.’
Glen Colvin and Yvonne Farrell visited school to speak
to students about the work of FMC and how important
safety is both at home and at work, students all agreed
that the new school bags were absolutely fabulous! Thank
you FMC
www.fmc.com/epax
High Clarence Primary School
Please
Vote Now
to Help School
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School’s Community Crafts
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Brighter Futures for Future Generations
You can transform lives by voting for
this Investment
Please Vote Now to Help Secure Funding for New School Equipment via Aviva Community Fund Did you know you can help us raise funds, with just a few taps of a keyboard?
We’re in the running to receive much-‐needed funding in the category of Helping the Younger Generation
Winning this would make a real difference, allowing us to Provide essential equipment for the new school build. Please help by voting now www.aviva.co.uk/community-‐fund Simply register project search for St Michael’s Project Search (St Michael’s – the
search is case sensitive)
Our Performance Depends on You
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Show your support –
you can place votes until 30 May 2015
at aviva.co.uk/community-‐fund
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MAY/JUN 2015
17
Business
Leading civil engineer tours Teesside port upgrade project
One of the UK’s top engineers has helped launch a
national campaign for the Institution of Civil Engineers
(ICE) at an important North East infrastructure project.
During his visit to the region, ICE President, Professor
David Balmforth met with the team behind the
reconstruction of Quay 1, at Teesport, which increases
the Port’s capacity to handle larger vessels. Phase one of
the project is on target for completion by McLaughlin and
Harvey later this month.
The visit also included the unveiling of the ‘This Is Civil
Engineering’ banners, which are being positioned on
infrastructure project sites across the country to raise public
awareness of the industry.
The initiative forms part of ICE’s wider Commit to
Infrastructure General Election campaign, and the leading
engineering body is hoping it will serve as a reminder that
long term investment in infrastructure improves quality
of life for the public, regenerates communities and creates
jobs.
Professor Balmforth said: “Teesport is fantastic example of
the value that first class infrastructure brings to this region.
“The North East needs to secure its fair share of
infrastructure investment in the future if it is to realise its
full potential as one of the major economic regions of the
UK”
PD Ports’ major investment in its bulk handling facilities
at Teesport joins a host of other civil engineering projects
around the country also raising their banners as part of the
campaign launch fortnight. Projects are also highlighting
their benefits via social media forums such as Twitter and
Instagram.
Wynyard Hall Creating New Career Opportunities
Sir John Hall – Vision of over 3000 roses in the new Walled Garden
Aerial View of the Rose Garden
More than 30 jobs are on offer as the fantastic Wynyard
Hall Hotel and Spa prepares to open a new visitor
attraction.
Wynyard Hall Hotel is unveiling the second stage of its
£5.3m gardens project on Tuesday 4 August 2015 with
a new Walled Garden Visitor Centre and there will be a
recruitment event on 27 May 2015 from 3.30 pm until
7.30 pm for up to 30 full and part time vacancies, with
positions such as food service and retail staff, supervisors,
chefs, and waiting staff for the Walled Garden café
and the adjacent Grand Marquee, which although just
installed last year is already one of the region’s largest
conference and wedding venues.
The £1.6m Walled Garden development, to the north of
the hall itself and within the estate’s 150 acres of grounds,
will also house a state-of-the-art visitor centre, shop and
café, stocking and serving locally-sourced goods and
produce and we hope it will attract visitors from across
the UK to enjoy the gardens, hotel and spa.
The Walled Garden is the realisation of a long-held
dream of Wynyard Hall’s owner, Sir John Hall, it will
contain over 3000 roses and has been designed and
planted by multi-award-winning Royal Horticultural
Society landscape architect Alistair Baldwin.
“The walled garden will be breathtakingly beautiful,”
said York-based Alistair.
“Visitors will see a truly dazzling display of roses, in a
design which pays tribute to the ancient heritage of the
walled garden, yet takes it firmly forward into a new stage
of development.”
Thirty new jobs have been created by the redevelopment of the Walled Garden - the second stage in
a rolling programme of work to create The Gardens at
Wynyard Hall – which will eventually cover four acres
and be one of the largest rose gardens in the UK.
Allison Antonopoulos, managing director at Wynyard
Hall Hotel, said: “This is a great opportunity to join us
at the beginning of a special journey. There has already
been so much interest in the Walled Garden from across
the UK, we will be looking for people who have differing
skills and abilities but who will share our pride in this
breathtakingly beautiful venue.”
No appointment is necessary for the recruitment event
but applicants are asked to bring an up to date copy of
their CV.
For further information call 01740 665406 or visit www.
wynyardhall.co.uk
18
Business
Falck Safety Services wins IADC Safety Award
A leading offshore survival training firm has been presented with
a prestigious accolade by a major industry body, in recognition of its
safety achievements over the past year.
Falck Safety Services (Falck), which has 32 training centres across
the world, including three UK centres, one here in Teesside and two in
Aberdeen, was presented with the accolade at this year’s IADC North
Sea Chapter Safety Awards dinner, due to its long-term commitment in
maintaining robust safety procedures within the organisation.
The IADC North Sea Chapter Annual Safety Award recognises an
associate member’s new initiatives and achievements in safety over the
past 12 months, including schemes to improve safety performance,
environmental projects, safety management initiatives and technical
and operational innovations that reduce risk.
Over the past year, Falck’s primary method of improving its safety
performance has been through staff participation. By incorporating
safety practices into all UK staff ’s personal development plans (PDP),
Falck encourages all staff to take ownership of safety in the workplace.
These practices included attending HSE inspections, emergency
response drills and safety committee meetings, as well as encouraging
staff to undertake IOSH Working Safely or Managing Safely courses.
The leading safety training provider has also invested heavily in energy
savings initiatives, installing new boilers at its Teesside facility, as well as
investigating methods to maintain its safety pool temperatures during
inactivity and looking towards renewable energy solutions in house.
Managing director of Falck Safety Services UK, Colin Leyden, said:
“We have always been dedicated supporters of safety and environmental
standards both within our company and in the industry as a whole, and it
is a great achievement for Falck to be recognised as a leader in this field.
Not only did we introduce safety practices for all employees, but we also
increased communication between them, ensuring information regarding
safety flows throughout the organisation, using our safety volunteers, and
implementing committee meetings, toolbox talks and a suggestion box
scheme.
“Safety is at the core of everything we do, and by ensuring all our staff is
safety- and environmentally-aware, this enables us to create a strong, safety
culture for all our employees, delegates and clients.”
This award follows shortly after Falck gaining both ISO:9001/14001 and
BS:OHSAS 18001 certifications, as well as achieving the internationally
recognised ‘British Safety Councils’ five-star award for health and safety
standards across all of its UK sites.
MAY/JUN 2015
Town Centre
Update
from Tony Donnelly,
Town Centre Manager, St.Modwen
The Easter Bunny paid a visit to Billingham Town Centre
last month, taking part in the first Billingham Town Centre
Easter Egg Hunt. I was pleased to see so many families
joining in the fun. Retailers such as Fonehouse, Hayes
Travel and Cooplands lent their support to the egg hunt,
hiding chocolate eggs in their shop windows. In total,
we donated more than 220 eggs and all were collected
on the day. That’s quite a lot of chocolate! A luxury egg
was won by Amy and Ruby Brunskill from Billingham
after they spotted it in the window of Thirlwell Estates
(pictured below with Katy Hall (far right) who is a Sales
Negotiator with Thirlwell Estates). Congratulations
to both. I highlighted in my last column that many
businesses in the town centre reported positive trading
figures over Christmas. This trend has continued into
the first quarter of the New Year, with many businesses
telling me that they have had a very encouraging first few
months of the year. It’s great that so many people in the
local community continue to support businesses in the
town centre. Your continued backing is crucial in helping
revitalise Billingham. Importantly, we are seeing positive
levels of interest from new retailers so I hope to be able to
bring you some exciting news soon. We are also delighted
to welcome Stuart Krumm and his POW American Diner,
which is located at 102 Queensway next to Timpsons and
is serving up classic American food.
MAY/JUN 2015
19
Business
Elections, Meet the Team Representing Billingham
Alex Cunningham MP
was a clear winner to
continue representing
Stockton North during the
recent elections, securing
49% of the votes (19,436
votes)
BCN caught up with
Alex just days before the
election during a visit
to St Michael’s Catholic
Academy for student
hustings, he said ‘I never
take politics for granted,
it will be a hard fought
campaign and I encourage
Billingham Central - Ann McCoy (Labour), Barry Woodhouse (Labour)
Alex Cunningham MP
everyone to use their
vote – even if they don’t vote for me, do
vote!’
It seems that the community took that
to heart ensuring Alex Cunningham led
his closest rival by a handsome margin.
In one of the closest run elections in
decades, “safe seats” such as Stockton
North were considered vital to Labour’s
Helen Atkinson (Independent)
campaign, especially with neighbouring
seat Stockton South being retained by
James Wharton for the Conservatives.
In the district election, Billingham
has some new faces to represent the
community and ensure their voices are
Christopher Clough
heard with a resounding success for
(Independent)
Labour and only 2 Independent seats.
Billingham South - Jean O’Donnell (Labour), Mike Smith (Labour)
Picture not available at time of print
Alex delighted to be
re-elected to represent
Stockton North
The people of Stockton North voted by an
overwhelming majority on May 7th to re-elect Alex
Cunningham as the local Member of Parliament,
representing the interests of Stockton, Billingham,
Norton and the Villages in Westminster.
And much to the delight of the returning Labour MP
– whose majority increased to 8,367 – the hard work of
local Labour Party members and volunteers also resulted
in a Labour majority being returned in elections to
Stockton Borough Council.
With Labour councillors sweeping to clear victories
in wards such as Billingham North and Mandale and
Victoria, where independent candidates had previously
held two-thirds of seats, Labour regained outright
control of Stockton Borough Council after ten years in
which no party held an overall majority. With 29 seats
required for full control, Labour returned 32 councillors
across the Borough’s 26 wards.
Alex said:
“I am delighted that the people of Stockton North have
again demonstrated their trust in me to represent them
in Westminster and beyond, and will continue to do all
that I can to fight for a fairer deal for Stockton Borough
and the Tees Valley more broadly. With the prospect of
five more years of David Cameron, it is more important
than ever that our people have a strong voice for a better
future.
“While last week’s national results were very
disappointing, I was overjoyed to see the hard work of
candidates and local activists pay off locally and return
a Labour majority to Stockton Borough Council. This
is a tremendous vote of confidence in the hard work of
the Council despite difficult circumstances, and I will
continue to work closely with councillors and Council
officers to achieve great things for the Borough.”
Leader of Stockton Borough Council, Cllr Bob Cook,
said:
“While we were understandably saddened that things
did not go our way nationally, we now have a Labour-led
council here in Stockton which clearly demonstrates that
local people have liked what they have seen in the past
four years – investing in the town and reinvigorating the
Borough despite a severely reduced budget, with ideas
and aspirations to secure services and make further
improvements for residents.”
Billingham East - Evaline Cunningham (Labour), Mick Stoker (Labour)
Billingham North - Chris Barlow (Labour), Stephen Parry (Labour)
Lauriane Povey (Labour)
20
Business
Welcome Investments
into the Town Centre
Photo L-R Jolande Mace, Raquel Ferandez, Tania Hales,
Stuart Krumm and Chef Steve Moore
American Diner
Business owner Stuart Krumm made some big life
choices following the breakdown of his marriage, he
wanted to find work that would enable him to continue
living in Billingham where he has been based for over 11
years and, ensure he could provide a future for his son
(aged 9) and his daughter (aged 10) doing what he does
best – cooking!
Stuart, originally from South Africa brought in chef Steve
Moore and taught him everything he knows about fresh
produce and special spices that ensure only the freshest of
ingredients are used in Billingham’s American Diner.
Business has been brisk since the diner opened and has
already built up a regular clientele, pictured here with
Stuart and Steve, are 3 gorgeous ladies who visit every
day, following their workout in the gym, the re charge the
batteries with coffee, waffles and maybe even a milkshake
too! The girls couldn’t decide on their favourite toppings
or flavours as they said ‘We just love them all, that’s why
we come here so often so we can keep working our way
through the menu!’.
Stuart said ‘Without doubt one of our best sellers has to
be our pulled pork hamburger, we have our own special
mix and it have proved to be so popular. We also have a
regular after school club, with mum’s bringing the kids
over for milkshakes, Bubblegum or Oreo are most popular
at the moment but we’ve loads of flavours, something for
everyone!’
Raquel Ferandez an American now living here said ‘I just
love the diner, it reminds me so much of what we have at
home – I’m with Stuart, the pulled pork is fab and I just
love the Oreo Milkshakes.’
So a huge welcome to Stuart and the team for choosing to
invest in Billingham through this great American Diner.
Want more information or make a booking call Stuart on
01642 265772
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
Greggs Revamp a Huge Success
Store Manager Tracey Atkinson is overjoyed
with the finished results following the refit of the
Greggs shop in Billingham Town Centre. The
square footage of the store has increased with a
row of indoor seating, which has pleased everyone
(we all know how windy our town centre can be!)
there is also a customer toilet too.
First impressions are an open and inviting space
and an easy selection area for popular ranges.
Tracey said ‘Business has increased since the
refit as it is easier access all around, sandwiches
are particularly popular and of course who could
resist a Greggs Pasty or Sausage Roll! It really is
just a nicer environment to work in as well as great
for our shoppers.’ Feedback from shoppers was
great too – just loved the whole ambience inside
now and of course always time for coffee!
MAY/JUN 2015
Cleveland
pOLICE update
Inspector
Chris Stoddart
Billingham
Neighbourhood
Inspector
So pleased that at the end of April we could
report anti-social behaviour is showing a
reduction of 11.4% compared to the same month
last year. We believe this has been achieved by
daily meetings with our partners to identify
repeat locations and response to callers enabling
us to ensure staff are patrolling in the right areas.
This is all part of Operation “Impact” where
officers target areas across the Billingham and
the wider Borough on an evening with the ethos
of parking, walking and talking to people, with
the intention of showing greater visibility which
we know is helping us reduce crime and antisocial behaviour as well as giving our residents
greater confidence to report and provide us early
intelligence of suspected or potential crime.
As the weather improves we receive more
reports of thefts occurring as a result of items
being left in gardens, things are easily movable
and can be stolen quite quickly. To help protect
you and your family, from potentially becoming
the victims of a crime, please make sure that
items such as bikes and gardening equipment are
locked away when not in use.
Crime prevention advice can help make a
huge difference so don’t make yourself an easy
target! Lots of crime is opportunist – so simply
don’t give the thief the opportunity, secure your
possessions away, lock windows and doors,
the warmer weather can see us relaxing in the
rear garden when we have left the front door
unlocked and accessible to anyone passing by –
don’t let that happen to you!
Your Neighbourhood Team are available to give
crime prevention advice so please do speak with
them, they are here to help you. We also have
an initiative currently on going in partnership
with the Police Cadets to tackle crime which
targets allotment sites across the community.
The initiative is called Operation Scarecrow and
involves the cadets designing a crime prevention
leaflet helping to raise awareness of theft or
damage at sites. The Cadets with the Neighbour
Teams the conduct site visits at the allotments to
review and provide a crime prevention strategy.
On carrying out these visits the Cadets and
Officers will then offer crime prevention advice
and hand out specialist alarm padlocks to those
locations where such crime has previously been
reported.
If you need to speak to your neighbourhood
team please do get in touch, we are here to help
you and your families stay safe in our community
MAY/JUN 2015
21
Environment
Bloomin’ Lovely
In just a few short years the allotments in Port Clarence
have been transformed from a huge waste ground, target of
many fly tippers, into a Horticultural Centre of Excellence,
with classrooms, growing tunnels, raised bed community
growing areas, a community orchard, a Faith Garden and
now just completed the Labyrinth which we hope will
become an area for outdoor performances in the near
future.
The vision of the labyrinth was to create an area where
on fine days and light evenings, outdoor events could take
place; there is already interest from a drumming club to
would like to teach music and rhythm to young people.
Kevin Pitt Strategic Manager at Billingham
Environmental Links Projects wanted to thank Ummar
Hanif from Thirteen Group for all the help provided by his
personnel in building the labyrinth, B&Q for providing
all the bricks at cost, making it economically viable to
complete the project far sooner than anticipated and, a
host of local businesses who have helped lift and shift
equipment into place so that the extra classroom could be
added along with the Faith Cabin including Scott Bros,
GrowHow and Wilton Group.
Kevin said ‘The culmination of all you see here in Port
Clarence is the result of a community prepared to work
together to make a difference. A whole host of groups and
associations have been inspired to work alongside BELP
and Clarences Leisure and Garden Association, helping
to change this whole area for the better. The raised bed
growing scheme has encouraged many people who have
never previously tried growing their own produce, to give
it a go! The success we have seen has attracted individuals
and groups to continue working together, talking together,
growing produce that we already know will provide a
bountiful harvest. We have a series of raised beds which
we believe this year will number nearly 200 by autumn,
where Billingham Churches Together are busy growing,
this group is coordinated by Rev Janet Capstick. We also
have the Clarences Families Group led by Jayne Hector,
who meet each Monday to plant, weed, water and feed
their raised beds. The Royal British Legion are also busy
growing and will be hosting a meeting in June at the
horticultural centre, using the polytunnel classrooms,
where they will consider how to encourage more over 60’s
to become involved, make new friends and give growing
a go.’
In the last year with the help and support of the
Probation Service (latterly ARC), Groundwork North
East with the HEAL project, there has been an upsurge of
activity that has seen great advances made meaning that
more raised bed are currently available if you and your
family, or group or association, want to get growing –
based on the photo’s here – you could be fine dining soon,
knowing that you grew all the produce yourself!
If you are interested in taking one of our raised beds,
please call 01642 564077 or pop down to the allotments as
there is generally someone there most days. (the allotments
are just behind the play area in Port Clarence you can park
immediately outside the grounds).
Planning Meeting in Polytunnel Learning Centre
L-R Kevin Pitt and Ummar Hanif
L-R Joanne, Amelia, Barry and Jennifer
Clarences Family Group – HEAL Project
Nurses Growing Area, Centre: Families Growing
Area, Right: Polytunnel Veggies.
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24
·
·
·
·
·
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
22
Arts
MAY/JUN 2015
Whats on at The Forum
The Drifters
The Cat In The Hat
Sex In Suburbia
29th May 2015 - 31st May 2015 - Pricing All Seats £11.00
From the moment his tall, red and white striped hat appears around
the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the
funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of
tricks and craziest of ideas, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing
adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home?
Based on the much loved book by Dr Seuss, The Cat in the Hat is a
lively and engaging first theatre experience for young children aged 3+.
“A sharp, vibrant and deliciously daft story told beautifully and perfectly
for children... brimming with energy and childish laughs.” - Broadway
Baby
Written by Claire Sweeney and Mandy Muden.
25th May 2015 - Pricing All Seats £22.00
Conc £20.0
Book an unforgettable date with the hit comedy
of the year!
Claire Sweeney stars in and co-writes this brand
new comedy about dating, men and finding Mr
Right.Penny Crowe is the host of a late-night
radio phone-in and. As Britain’s leading Agony
Aunt, she takes calls about every date from hell
and the occasional one from heaven.
PMG & TREADWELL PRESENT The
Rebranded Tour 2015.
21st May 2015 - Pricing All Seats £26.00
Conc £25.00
Following on from the success of their recent
tours, the current line up brings you the
Rebranded Tour 2015 defining the evolution
of the phenomenal story of the Drifters
through its music from the past to the
present. This high energy show brings many
of the greatest hits ‘Under The Boardwalk’,
‘Saturday Night At The Movies’, ‘Up On The
Roof ’, ‘Kissin In The Back Row’, ‘Down on
the Beach’, ‘More Than A Number In My
Little Red Book’ along with newer songs
that have evolved through the first new
recordings in over 30 years.
What’s on
Joe McElderry
X-FACTOR winner Joe McElderry is hitting the road with a brand new show
after the sell-out success of last year’s nationwide tour.
The Evolution Tour showcases Joe’s renowned versatility which has won him a
unique fan base. But it is Joe’s sheer energy and vitality which carry the show –
and the audience into the night with a sense of elation.
The Evolution Tour features new numbers and new routines which will entertain
his fans, old and new. His unmistakable voice, easy wit and warm rapport have
endeared him to all ages from 5 to 95 and his loyal band of fans made 2014’s 60gig Set Your Soul Alive tour a major hit.
26th Jun 2015 - Pricing, All Seats £22.00, VIP Package £75.0
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
An Amateur Production Presented By Students From The Forum Theatre School
Of Performing Arts. 12th Jul 2015 - Pricing, All Seats £10.00
The Blues Brothers
The Blues Brothers started out in 1978, created by comedy actors Dan Ackroyd
and John Belushi as part of a musical sketch on the American TV show, “Saturday
Night Live”. It wasn’t long before the band began to take on a life beyond the
confines of television, releasing an album in 1978, Briefcase Full of Blues, and then
having a Hollywood film, The Blues Brothers, created around its characters in
1980. And the rest, as they say, is history…
Now, “The Blues Brothers Experience” recreates all the iconic atmosphere of a live
performance of The Blues Brothers - capturing the essence of both the music and
the film - in a stage show / concert experience that electrifies!
This live ten-piece band produces music that will thrill you, and a performance
so much like Dan Ackroyd and John Belushi that you will long remember the
evening you decided to immerse yourself in “The Blues Brothers Experience”
27th Jun 2015 - Pricing, All Seats £17.50
Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom
The Little Mermaid JR
11th Jun 2015 - 14th Jun 2015
Pricing - All Seats £9.00, Conc £8.00
Schools Price Available.
An Amateur Production Performed By Dancewise
Performing Arts.
We’ll Meet Again
27th May 2015 - Pricing, All Seats £12.00.
Remember The Great Radio Stars Of The 40’s and
50’s. An afternoon of patriotic comedy, music and
fun.
From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television
animation live on stage!
Holly is a young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic
doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t
have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of
Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers
and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure.
Ben and Holly have fun and games helping Gaston the Ladybird clean up his
messy cave, they go on a trip into The Big World with tooth-fairy Nanny Plum,
even plan a surprise birthday party for King Thistle, and oops, let’s hope there’s
not another jelly flood!
18th Jul 2015 - 19th Jul 2015 - Pricing, All Seats £15.50, Under 16’s £13.50
Family Ticket £54.0
MAY/JUN 2015
Health
23
QUEENSWAY
DENTAL CLINIC
Patient travels 220 miles to
get her dream smile
Zoe from Cambridge made a round trip of over 440
miles from her home town to visit Queensway Dental
Clinic in Billingham.
After nearly 4 years of wearing an ill-fitting denture,
Zoe thought that there must be another option that
didn’t have the metal clasps showing when she smiled
and the uncomfortable bulky metal on her tongue &
pallet - the features that she disliked so much.
She took to Google to research a ‘clear clasped
denture’ and she came across Queensway Dental
Clinic. The solution was exactly what she was looking
for, an aesthetic and comfortable alternative to the
traditional denture.
After a telephone conversation with Queensway’s
Treatment Advisor Leanne to find out more about
what the treatment involved and how much it
would cost, Zoe made her mind up and booked her
appointment for 2 weeks later.
In total, Zoe would only need 5 appointments from
the start to end of treatment so booked her transport
and arranged a 3 night stay in the North East.
Zoe said about her experience, “I’m amazed with
what Dr Ian Lane and Technician John Blenkey have
been able to achieve in only a few days. The whole
experience was incredible from the staff, to the
facilities and the technology; I was very well looked
after and the standard and quality of the finished
denture is better than I could have ever dreamed of. I
have a smile that looks like my old real teeth, but better
and I hardly know it’s there.... no more metal and
bulky feel.”
Zoe’s treatment ran so seamlessly largely due to the
fact that patients of Queensway Dental Clinic benefit
from an on-site Dental Laboratory. Not only does this
mean a quicker-turnaround time, the dentist can work
hand-in-hand with the technician and the patient to all
have their own input into the design process.
John Blenkey, Prosthetic Lab Manager and pioneer
of Queensway’s clear thermoplastic partial denture
framework, said of the benefit of this working
relationship between the dentist and on-site
technician, “It means that we can offer a unique service
that puts the patient at the centre of our work. By
involving the patient every step of the way it ensures
that they are 100% happy with the finished result.”
In Zoe’s case at her final fit appointment she had a
change that she wanted to make and it meant it was no
problem, it could be made straight away and she left
the clinic on the same day wearing her new denture.
Before leaving Zoe said; “It has been incredible and
a pleasure to meet such wonderful people. What a
lovely place Queensway is - the professionalism has
been second to none. I am going home feeling 10 years
younger with my new smile and I hope to be visiting
again soon.”
If you would like a free consultation to find out more
about the ‘clear denture framework’ please call 01642
554667 or visit www.queensway.co.uk
+
How To Cope With Hay Fever
Are you one of the 10 million people in the UK who
suffer with hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic
rhinitis? A staggering 20% of the population are
thought to be affected by this condition, often making
life quite miserable for weeks or even months at a time.
It is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen resulting
in sneezing, itchy/runny nose, itchy, red and watery
eyes and nasal congestion which can also lead to
headaches. All in all, quite an unpleasant collection
of symptoms which occur at different times of year
depending on which pollens the sufferer is sensitive to.
Grass pollen is the most common cause and is released
from May to July. Tree, weed and shrub pollens may
also lead to a reaction and can appear from February
to September. Hay fever can have a huge impact on
a sufferer’s quality of life by affecting ability to sleep,
concentrate or perform normal everyday tasks at
home, work and school.
Avoidance of exposure to pollen is the most effective
way to manage hay fever but this is often difficult
as pollen is air-borne and we enjoy spending time
outdoors during the summer months.
Use of a pollen barrier balm around the nostrils may
help, as could rinsing with a nasal saline solution.
These simple remedies can be used alongside hay fever
medication and are available over the counter at The
Pharmacy.
An oral anti-histamine can be taken to tackle all the
symptoms of hay fever. It is best to start this before
you expect your symptoms as, once established,
they may be more difficult to treat. Some products
can cause drowsiness but ask at The Pharmacy to
find which is the best one for you. If you are still
suffering with eye, nose or throat symptoms there are
several products available to help, eg eye drops, nasal
sprays. Some can be obtained over the counter at The
Pharmacy, or following a private consultation with
the Pharmacist. Alternatively you could consult your
GP who will discuss your condition with you and
prescribe medication if appropriate. You may prefer
to try a homeopathic remedy to treat your hay fever.
Again, ask at The Pharmacy for advice. Our staff will
also be able to signpost you to alternative therapies
available locally. There are a number of other services
offered at The Pharmacy which include emergency
contraception, supply of anti-malarials, advice on the
use of your medicines and more. Many of these are
free and no appointment is necessary.
To find out more please drop in, visit our website
www.thepharmacy.org.uk
or call us on 01642 530304
Queensway Dental Clinic,
170 Queensway. Billingham, Teesside, TS23 2NT
Call us on 01642 554667
or please visit www.queensway.co.uk
Port Clarence School
Nurse Drop In Sessions
Due to the difficulties in transport from
Port Clarence to doctors surgeries, there is
now a School Nurse Service running in High
Clarence Primary School which is being made
available to local residents.
The Stockton-on-Tees Public Health School
Nurse Service are offering a free, confidential
health drop in based in the family room in
the school on a Monday afternoon from 2pm
-4pm.
There is no need to make an appointment,
this is a drop in facility. A fully qualified School
Nurse will be there to discuss and offer advice
around a range of health concerns that you
may have about your child or teenager, this
includes:
• Night time bed wetting advice
•Relationships and bullying
•Healthy eating and diet
•Smoking
•Risk taking behaviour
•Mental health
If you would like to talk to a School Nurse
but cannot attend the drop ins please feel free
to call the service on 01642 606591
As a parent, if you would like to talk about
health concerns you may have about yourself
(including stopping smoking) the school
nurse will also be to signpost you on to further
support.
24
MAY/JUN 2015
Health
NHS Hartlepool and Stockton on Tees Clinical
Commissioning Group (CCG) in partnership
with North Tees and Hartlepool Foundation
Trust, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and
Catalyst (represent the voluntary and community
sector in Stockton-on-Tees) have been selected
by the government to be an Integrated Personal
Commissioning (IPC) pathfinder. This means that
patients who are over 65 with long term health
conditions in Stockton on Tees will be offered the
opportunity to have greater control over their own
personal health and social care budgets. From April
this year, over 200 people, in Stockton-on-Tees who
are over 65 and have a long term Respiratory problem
have been asked to take part in a programme that
gives then the opportunity to take control of part of
their health and social care budget. This initial group
of 200 will expand year on year over the next three
years as knowledge and understanding is developed.
The people taking part in the programme will have:
One point of contact-a care coordinator/well-being
facilitator Support Plan, co-developed with the patient
Information, support, advice and advocacy Peer
support Flexibility Control over part of their budget,
including the option of a direct payment giving you
full control. The programme will: Help to remove
the frustrations of dealing with multiple agencies and
practitioners by dealing with one point of contact
Better reflect your needs and put you in control Put
Stockton at the forefront of giving choice and working
in partnership to achieve this goal. For the first time
there will be a blending of comprehensive health and
social care funding for individuals, allowing them
to direct how it is used. The aim of IPC is to help
people with complex needs and their carers have a
better quality of life andachieve the outcomes that are
important to them and their families. It encourages
self-management and will enable support to be
designed around individual needs and circumstances
and prevent the crises in people’s lives that lead to
unplanned hospital and institutional care. The benefits
are that patients will be given greater power and
support to shape their own care and it will be easier
for the NHS, local authorities and providers to work
together and be flexible for the benefit of patients. The
voluntary sector will be a key partner in designing
effective approaches, supporting individuals and
driving cultural change.
Steve Rose, Chief Executive of Catalyst Stockton
said, “NHS England has thrown down a challenge
as well as creating an exciting opportunity for the
voluntary sector by inviting us to be an engaged
partner in IPC from the outset. We relish the
challenge and look forward to innovating new ways to
give people the choices they ask for within the context
of their homes and community.” Dr Boleslaw Posmyk,
Chair, Hartlepool and Stockton on Tees CCG said,
“The IPC pathfinder is aimed at patients who have
high levels of both health and social care needs where
a more integrated and personalised approach would
address acknowledged problems in their current care
provision. We hope that it will help prevent people
from becoming more unwell, and enable them to
retain their independence.”
Are you
bottling
things
up?
anxiety anger stress
depression stress
anxiety anger
depression
anxiety anger
Stockton patients to
control their own budgets
IAPT A5 flyer HAST.indd 1
Improving Access to
Psychological Therapy
Services (IAPT)
Here in Hartlepool and Stockton
we are Improving Access to
Psychological Therapies. IAPT is
a programme that helps people
suffering from depression and
anxiety disorders find the best
type of therapy for them.
20/11/2014 11:02
MAY/JUN 2015
25
26
MAY/JUN 2015
Sport
Billingham
Lewis Baldwin
Canadian Opportunity Five-a-side
We have followed the path of an amazing and
talented young skater who lives here in Billingham,
Lewis Baldwin, just 16 years old and currently in
the midst of GCSE’s too. He recently played for
England in Holland, winning the bronze media and
having a fantastic time representing his country.
On returning from that tournament, Lewis
was contacted by a Canadian Ice Hockey scout,
asking if Lewis would consider going to Canada
and training in their Ice Hockey Academy. BCN
spoke to dad Glen Baldwin who said ‘They had a
blast when the team won the bronze medal and
Lewis had such a great time playing internationally.
When we got home we were contacted by a
Canadian ice hockey scout, he has asked Lewis if
he would like to go and play for their ice hockey
academy in Canada, this is awesome as this doesn’t
happen very often, we are overwhelmed that
Lewis has been recognised as a top junior player
worldwide , the only down side to this is that Lewis
would attend a private school and these fees have to
be covered by us, which as a ‘regular’ hard working
family, is just a step too far for us.’
If any reader out there could sponsor Lewis to
take up this international opportunity in Canada,
please do contact us at BCN, we will be happy
to forward your details through to Lewis and his
family.
The fundraising team for Hearts and Goals have
continued to raise monies throughout the year
which has now seen them distribute 500 AED units
throughout the UK, including equipment into
clubs and associations in our community including
Billingham Town Football Club where they held
their last fundraiser recently. Learning CPR isn’t
hard and an AED unit literally talks you through
‘what to do’ but your actions can save someone’s
life – the first few minutes are critically important
and truly are ‘lifesaving’. Give it a go, find a location
near you and learn this fantastic lifesaving skill, you
never know when you will be the first person at the
scene of an incident and it could be you making a
difference.The Clayton Family have been fabulous
in their fundraising, well done everyone!
Hearts and Goals
Score A Winner
League
With the league programme now ended its
well done to Barwick Rangers who have won
their sixth title in seven seasons. Unbeaten in
over three seasons they have achieved a record
run of five consecutive championships. Station
Plastering improved their final standing on
the previous season ending in second spot, ten
points behind the leaders. Third place went to
Blue Bells, Newton Bewley, separated by goal
difference from Scouting For Goals. Both ended
with 24 points. Trailing behind, in mid table,
were Pinpoint Recruitment & Motortech who
had mixed seasons. The two teams relegated
to division two are Swans & Monkey Hangers.
In the second division P.A.C.S. have secured
the champions spot in their best ever season,
ending with 35 points, five points ahead of
runners up Teesside Wanderers. Wanderers
playing in their first season in the league will
join P.A.C.S. in enjoying first division football
next season. Spartans did well to end the
season in third spot ahead of table leaders, up
to Christmas, Half A Crown. A disastrous 2015
saw Crown slip to fourth & miss out in the
Sponsored by
promotion race. Diesel Centre, Eston ended in
fifth place ahead of new team Farcelona, who
are still finding their feet, in sixth. Billingham
Fire took seventh spot ahead of The Wanderers
who fought bravely throughout the season,
improving their tallys on the previous season,
but remaining without a point. Games in the
SRC Community Cup are now taking place on
Sunday evenings from 7.00 p.m. at Stockton
Riverside College, Bede Sports Centre, Marsh
House Avenue, Billingham. The Quarter finals
take place on 10 May, Semis on 17 May & the
final and third place play off on 31 May 2015.
Div One League Table
W
D
L
PTS
GD
Div Two League Table
W
D
L
PTS
GD
Barwick Rangers
13
1
0
40
+49
P.A.C.S.
11
2
1
35
+50
Station Plastering
9
3
2
30
+38
Teesside Wanderers
9
3
2
30
+15
Blue Bells Newton Bewley
9
6
2
24
+22
Spartans
8
1
5
25
+25
Scouting For Goals
7
3
4
24
+12
Half A Crown
7
2
5
23
+24
Pinpoint Recruitment
5
2
7
17
+4
Diesel Centre, Eston
5
5
4
20
7
Moortech
5
1
8
16
+10
Farcelona
4
2
8
14
-5
Swans
3
0
11
9
-58
Billingham Fire
4
1
9
13
-9
Monkey Hangers
0
0
14
0
-77
The Wanderers
0
0
14
0
-107
The annual Presentation Evening & A.G.M. will be held at
Synthonia Cricket Club on Friday 3 July 2015.
For more information on the league please see our
website www.billinghamfiveasideleague.co.uk or follow
us on Facebook or Twitter #B5side
Puzzles & Fun
SUDOKU
EASY
HARD
visit our website for answers - www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
WORD SEARCH
NUMBER SEARCH
Can you find the words about the GOOD AND BAD.
They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or
backwards.
Can you find the hidden numbers? They may be
horizontal or vertical.
ABOMINABLE, ADEPT, ANGELIC, ATROCIOUS, AUSPICIOUS, AWFUL, BAD,
BENEFICIAL, BETTER, CORRECT, DEPLORABLE, DIRE, DREADFUL, EVIL,
EXCELLENT, EXPERT, FAIR, FINE, GOOD, HONEST, HONORABLE, HOPELESS,
HORRENDOUS, INCOMPETENT, JUST, LAMENTABLE, MALEVOLENT,
MEDIOCRE, MONSTROUS, PITIFUL, RESPECTABLE, RIGHT, SAFE, SECURE,
SKILLED, SOUND, TERRIBLE, VIRTUOUS, WELL, WICKED, WORSE, WORTHY,
WRONG.
04473, 05133, 05147, 10193, 11707, 19274, 23457, 29593, 34477,
37432, 47474, 64738, 73849, 87207, 94383, 99874.
MAY/JUN 2015
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
The Early History of
Billingham Marsh House
Harriers by Stuart Blakey Club Secretary
Billingham Marsh House Harriers was initially the idea of Ray Harrison, Gerry Smith, Stu Blakey
and Phil Malone, four running pals from Billingham. I don’t think Gerry & Phil would mind if I
say that Ray was the driving force behind all four of us.
Our inaugural meeting was held in the Merlin Pub lounge on 15th November 1985 at 7:15pm.
Our first AGM was held after publicity on a local radio station by Ray & Gerry and various
leaflets posted and passed out at the Billingham Community Centre on 6th January 1986 – 23
members attended.
It was decided that we would apply to the A.A.A. (Amateur Athletic Association) and local
Athletic Asociation to register the club as ‘Marsh House Harriers’. Billingham was added to the
name of the club later on.
We chose ‘Marsh House Harriers’ because we all lived in the Marsh House Ward of Billingham.
Ken Stringer a member who later become Treasurer formulated the logo of a Marsh Harrier bird
and Ray gave us a Latin quotation ‘AB initio AD finem’ roughly translated ‘from beginning to the
end’ very apt for all runners.
The first ‘Marsh House Harriers 10K road race’ took place in 1987 around the streets of
Billingham and is the clubs flagship race; we have re-named the race ‘Ray Harrison 10K Road Race’
after the sudden death of Ray in 1991.
We’ve also introduced 2 trail races to our race series ‘The Absent Friends Trail Race’ at Cowpen
Bewley Woodland Park and ‘The Whitson Woodland Run’ at Wynyard Woodland Park on 24th
May.
To register for your place, please visit https://racebest.com/#/races/whitsun-woodland-run
We have a current membership of 350 comprising of Senior Men, Senior Ladies, Juniors Male &
Female ages from 8yrs to any age
Through the year we hold social evenings at our base; Billingham Synthonia Football Club
Central Avenue, Billingham. Billingham Marsh House Harriers are a well established running club
for all ages and abilities to find out more please visit www.marsh-house.org
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
Professional
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.
leaflet distributors
required
leaflets samples papers
work alone or with your own team
car/telephone essential
tel: 01642 438 414
Mobile: 07810 240 434 or 07971 312 043
Email: [email protected]
The British Swimming
Championships 2015
Billingham ASC swimmer Stephanie Blakeburn has returned from The London Aquatics Centre
after a splendid week of swimming in The British Swimming Championships. The Aquatics Centre
hosted the Olympic Games swimming events in 2012. It is a world class facility which was selected
to host the top event of the year where swimmers competed for National Honours as well as a place
on the GB Team for this summer’s World Championships.
Stephanie had achieved the tough qualification standards to compete in 100 and 200 metres
butterfly and 200 metres individual medley. She competed in fine style setting new season’s best
times in every event.
Head Coach Guy Fawkes was delighted with Stephanie’s performances. He said “it is a tribute to
Stephanie’s dedication, hard work and determination in training throughout the year that enabled
her to set new season’s best times in The Nation’s Top swimming event. Stephanie has also managed
to combine a full time university degree course at Teesside University with her swimming.”
Following on from this success Stephanie went on to break the British Record for 200 metres
individual medley in the 18 to 24 age group in a splendid new personal best time, in another
competition in her home pool at Billingham Forum.
Stephanie will now focus her training on The Scottish National Championships in Glasgow in
June and The British National Swimming Championships In July.
28
Sport
£50K as the Phoenix Rises
to Protect Playing Fields
We often take for granted our green spaces, hoping they will
provide a continued legacy for many generations, however
without the intervention of Phoenix Community Services CIC,
ran by Nicky Brown and Malcolm Deighan we could have so
easily lost the land that serves as the home turf to Billingham
Synthonia Juniors FC on Central Avenue.
Although the juniors have played on the land for many years,
overseen by the club Chairman Nicky Brown with the help of
team manager’s, coaches, parents and players. It came to light
that property owners Coulby Capital Ltd were considering selling
the plot, literally taking the ground from under their feet.
Nicky and business partner Malcolm, both Billingham
residents who already run there own training company and
have worked with young people for many years, decided to try
and do something to save the land for the juniors and the wider
community, launching Phoenix Community Services C.I.C. to
be the bidding lead to Sport England’s ‘Protected Playing Fields’
fund, to secure the land for generations to come.
We are pleased to say that following a lengthy bid process,
competing against 97 other similar projects, Sport England have
awarded £50,000 to secure the land for 25 years, not only for the
teams that currently play and train on the ground but for the
wider community too.
Chairman and volunteer Nicky Brown said ‘I am absolutely
overjoyed, we are not experienced bid writers, our skills
are working with the young people themselves. Phoenix
Community Services Grassroots project has now secured
Billingham Synthonia Juniors future for the 10 teams (including
a new girls team) playing and training on the 7 pitches at the
ground on Central Avenue. The thought of losing this fantastic
facility spurned us on to find funding that would help us secure
and, potentially enable us to further develop the land for future
generations too. I would especially like to thank Steve Bagshaw
and Bridget Hall at Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, both
were great in their support to us as we pursued our National
Lottery Sport England bid, I would also like to thank on behalf
of the juniors Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies for there
continued sponsorship of the juniors over the last six years
and also Tony Williamson (club welfare officer) for his time in
securing the sponsorship on behalf of the juniors once again.
We do want all the community to become involved to help us
bring some much needed sporting facilities to the people in old
Billingham, this bid has taken over a year to secure and we want
to see even more sports clubs and community groups using the
facilities we hope to provide in the future.
A true success story and if you want to learn more or become
involved please contact Nicky at: nickbrown2366@googlemail.
com or call 07944958040
Billingham Removals
MAY/JUN 2015
Young Team Head
Into New Cricket
Season Looking
For Success
Billingham Synthonia Cricket Club have started the early season
with 3 wins out of 4 with the 4th game falling victim to the weather
and currently sit 2nd in the table behind Whitby
This year a very young team are competing in the NYSD Division
1, lead by Michael Atkinson, containing youngsters brought through
the clubs youths teams as well as an old face re-joining for 2015, with
Martin Cull the clubs all-time leading wicket taker returning after a
spell in the Premier League with Sedgefield, as well as a number of
new players looking for new challenges and opportunities.
The club runs 3 senior teams with the first and second teams
competing on a Saturday and the Third team on a Sunday throughout
the season.
Our Junior teams had a very welcome boost when prior to their
season starting were all handed new cricket shirts fully embroided
with club crest and the sponsor of FUJI FILM after a very kind
donation from them allowed the club to purchase new shirts for all
junior players which has massively boosted confidence within the
young cricketers that big companies are interested in them and their
development
Junior coachining is back outside and hopefully, weather permitting,
continue to grow our junior sections. Anyone interested in joining
our junior section please contact Tracy Wing on 07526578461
Training for all sections of the club, senior and junior, will be held
during the cricket season on a Tuesday night at Billingham Synthonia
Cricket Club at 1800hrs weather permitting.
Billingham Synthonia Cricket Club also has a new clubhouse and
function room available for hire for Private Parties please contact the
club on 01642 361450. Also the club is open to serve a wide selection
of beers, wines and spirits every match day.
The club is also running its Annual Sportsman Evening on Saturday
13 June and this year have a Former Middlesbrough and Sunderland
legend Julio Arca as our guest speaker as well as top comedian and star
of TV series Hebburn Steffan Peddie as our comedian for the evening
Tickets £15 including pie & peas and are available from club or by
contacting 07758081066
All club fixtures can be found at billinghamsyncc.play-cricket.com
Crossword
Across
1. Hanker (5)
3. Lariat (5)
6. Decimal base (3)
8. Conundrums (7)
9. Garret (5)
10. Dull pain (4)
13. Long narrative poem (4)
14. Commence (5)
17. Vegetable (7)
18. Novel (3)
19. Nursemaid (5)
20. Synthetic fabric (5)
Down
1. Abominable snowman (4)
2. Serviette (6)
3. Indolent (4)
4. Choice (9)
5. Marine mollusk (6)
7. Sustenance (9)
11. Time of year (6)
12. Gentle breeze (6)
15. Untrusting (4)
16. Aquatic bird (4)

thirlwells - Billingham Community Newspaper

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