Issue 99 July/August 2016 Cheers! Puffin Festival ends on a high nother successful Puffin even more successful. Afestival filled the town again Volunteers are always this year, with good responses welcome!” from the public, despite poor Organiser Elaine weather in the middle of the Brown was pleased week meaning some events had with the food festival to be cancelled. and Colony music Kate Morrison, part of festival on the final the organising team, said: Saturday. “Each year I have seen more “We couldn’t have involvement from businesses wished for a better and the community as a whole, ending to an enjoyable getting behind the idea of what week. Facebook users the town council and community commented on the groups are trying to achieve for success of several stalls, Amble’s future prosperity. which had actually “Disappointment this year sold out and others was the change in the weather praised the variety of when some events had to artisan traders and their be cancelled. However, the products. children’s activities taking place “The music festival inside still went ahead and I was again very popular. saw some interesting handmade We’d like to thank Mick puffins around the town. I Robertson for pulling was very pleased at how all the attended by residents and the to get even more people coming together the line-up and evening talks and events were many visitors. There is still room forward to help make next year overseeing the event on the day.” Prestigious national award for Amble restaurant, as they open new venture he town has been recognised nationally once more, thanks to The Old Boathouse, which was awarded top Tprize in Fishing News’ Coastal Fish Restaurant of the Year. Restaurants from all over the country were nominated, shortlisted and voted by the public. The category for seafood restaurant was sponsored by glossy magazine, Coast. Alex Fisher, editor of Coast Magazine told The Ambler: “We were so impressed with the number of nominations and votes for the Sustainable Seafood Restaurant of the Year Award. Many fantastic restaurants were nominated, but well done to The Old Boathouse in Amble.” Martin Charlton, owner and chef of the Old Boathouse, said “I felt really humbled, considering the quality of the competition. I know one of the Cornish chefs and hold him in high esteem. We got nearly a quarter of the total votes, so thank you all those who recognised Amble and the Old Boathouse.” In April, Jack Charlton, ex footballer and keen fisherman, cut the ribbon to the Fish Shack at the Little Shore. The Footballing legend Jack Charlton officially opened the new Fish Shack, the latest shack, an extension of the restaurant, is now serving snacks venture by the Old Boathouse group. l- r: local joiner and lobster fisherman Davey of fish and shellfish. Martin, his wife Ruth and all the staff Buddle, who created the quirky building, Martin Charlton and Ruth Charlton of the do work very hard. “We’ve had our ups and downs, but Old Boathouse. The shack can be found next to the pier on Amble Quayside. customers must like what we do, so we’re pleased.” Acts of kindliness in the friendliest port don’t know if it’s too much social media, Plans for the future include more food offers I together with divisive views and downright bad (see page 3, 4 and 10) and a major development news, or a general build up of bad manners and at the boat yard, which is bad news for the Amble irritability, but recent months have seemed to turn Boat Company workers, but better news for many people to intense disagreement with each Spurreli Boutique Ice cream (page 4). other, either politically (I’m looking at you, EU It was a shock to learn that the Dovecote referendum), or out and out violence (a hard stare Centre is to close and two children’s groups are in the direction of Euro 2016). And as for the desperate to find new premises (see page 8). The Ambler weather... Sad too is the current lack of a venue for adult Fourways 2 So it is consoling to see that, actually, good learning classes. 6 Dilston Terrace neighbourliness, community spirit and optimism When Northumberland College closed at the Northumberland NE65 0DT for the future do still exist, and here at The old Fourways, in August 2006, the town was Tel: 01665 712929 Ambler we are proud to continue our tradition of reassured that an alternative venue was being www.theambler.co.uk showcasing some of the best of human nature. sought. Words used by the college then, were [email protected] See below for the wonderful news about almost identical to those given by the council Twitter: AmbleByTheSea Amble RNLI’s Shannon Appeal, and the Kerton now. Education is the best route to a better and YouTube: AnnaAtTheAmbler1 family’s award. And random acts of kindliness are cohesive future, so let’s hope we don’t lose this being promoted on Mauretania Day (See p3). important resource.

STOP PRESS >> Amble Lifeboat Fundraisers have announced their Shannon Appeal has hit its target. A spokeswoman said “We are thrilled at this wonderful news and want to thank everyone Follow us on Facebook who has donated, fundraised and helped us reach the £200,000 target for such an important Follow us on Pinterest cause.” Editorial Team: Vivienne Dalgliesh - Célia Fery Kerton family thank Cath Findlay - Norma Hinson Mir Jannetta -Tim Jones community for their Lou Pickering - Anna Williams

Thanks to: award Mark Beswick & The Artograffi Crew fundraising family from Hauxley has Bartle Rippon & Andrew Mounsey Abeen presented with the “Most Inspiring Volunteers” award from the Huntington’s Distribution: Disease Association. Dawn and Taylor The Kerton family have been fundraising for Printing: Huntingdon’s Disease for many years, and were Azure Printers, Pegswood astonished to be voted winners at the recent charity awards ceremony held in Liverpool. Would you like to join Ellis Kerton, her father Stewart and The Ambler team? We are a friendly grandfather Edwin received the award for their group who welcome contributions and help from anyone who would fundraising and awareness-raising activities, like to volunteer. including taking part in charity races, including the Great North Run for the last five years. Thanks to all our contributors, The win was as a result of the number of sponsors and advertisers: votes the family received on social media. “When we got there and started getting to know the other people there, I thought there’s Community Foundation no way we would win,” said Ellis. “We were up Coquet Fund against seven other competitors. When it was Inner Wheel Club of announced, it was insane. I thought ‘oh my Ellis Kerton with the award Amble and Warkworth god!’”. Rotary Club of Edwin (known to his friends as Ebb) Kerton, Amble and Warkworth whose wife Nicki had the disease for 20 years Ellis hopes to take part in the Robin Hood and died last year, said “I felt very humble. Also Marathon and the Great North Run in September. bittersweet. We are raising money for a cause that “It seems appropriate to run the GNR; my granda affects us all. Ebb and grandma Nicki took part in the very first “It was fantastic to meet the others and I felt one in 1981.” unworthy. So many others try so hard to raise Huntingdon’s disease is hereditary and funds and awareness. Everyone should have got support networks for those affected is vitally an award.” important. The Ambler is a project of Hannah Longworth, Community Fundraiser The family wanted to thank everyone who Amble Development Trust and Social Media Lead for the Huntington’s supported their fundraising day in Angie’s Tavern Disease Association said “In addition to their in April. The views expressed in The Ambler annual Great North Run challenge, the family Ebb was also grateful for all the votes cast by and The Ambler Online are not organise local events to raise extra funds and most friends and family. necessarily those of importantly awareness. “It was the community that won it for us. the Editorial Team “The Kertons’ passion, spirit and dedication We’re so grateful to everyone who voted for us. Printed on paper from sustainable to supporting the HDA is astounding. We can’t Without the community behind us, we’ve got forestry in the UK thank them enough for all they have done. They nothing. It’s a credit to the community.” truly are deserving winners. Anna Williams 2 ~ The Ambler New deli kitchen on Coble Quay atch out for a new deli-kitchen, due “We want to fill a gap Wto open soon as part of the Coble we see as missing,” said Quay developments. The exciting project will Jonny. “We’ll be working feature a delicatessen and a restaurant that with Charlie (Allonbert) will be run by Jonny and Julie Bird of Sea who has the Cheese Pod and Soil fame. at the Harbour Village. Chef Jonny told The Ambler: “The food He’s come on board and will include light meals, open sandwiches, his ideas will influence bagels and some specials. It won’t be a full- the deli, and ours the on restaurant like Sea and Soil, but we see it restaurant.” having a similar relaxed vibe. In the evening With the prospect it will have a wine bar with British and of up to 15 new jobs, European tapas.” including apprenticeships, Julie explained the thoughts behind for local people, hopes are Johnny Bird giving a cookery demonstration at the Puffin Festival the new venture. “Many people who’ve high that the new deli- been here say, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if there kitchen will open at the many ways. It’s one of these towns that was somewhere to go as a couple to have a start of August. adapts to what’s happening in the area, and drink and something light to eat. It will be “We’re excited,” said Jonny. “It’s going to in the world. I think the High Street will interesting to see how it goes.” be quite big – about 40 people inside and an be different in a few years’ time. It will be The couple are keen to stress that the new outside space as well. Hopefully it’ll be good interesting to see over the next five years how project will complement existing offers in the for the area.” Amble will change.” town. Julie said “Amble has developed in so Anna Williams Celebrating Mauretania day with random acts of kindness any people know Amble as the the 1930s on Sunday 3rd July. The village will MFriendliest Port and the story behind be decorated in bunting, there will be classic this soubriquet has led to a celebration event cars on display, 1930s themed music, a brass at Amble Harbour Village, with classic cars, band and jive dancing, and some random acts a brass band and a distinctive 1930s theme to of kindness throughout the day, including the day. giving away a £5 Harbour Village Voucher On Wednesday 3rd July 1935, when every hour from 10am until 3pm! RMS Mauretania was heading on her final All the pods will be open from 10am to voyage to the docks at Rosyth to be broken 4pm and up, she sailed past Amble. there will At 10.25am, the clerk to Amble Urban be plenty Council sent the captain of the Mauretania a of vintage message of greeting: tea and “Amble to Mauretania. Greetings from cake for Amble, last port in England, to still the finest sale. ship on the seas”. See Back came the reply: p22 for “Mauretaina to Urban Council, Amble, to more info. the last and kindliest port in England, greetings Sarah Seriously good coffee. and thanks. Mauretania.” Dunne Speciality coffee beans roasted Decades of retelling this story means and Helen daily on site. ‘kindliest’ has now turned into ‘friendliest’. Spark •Handmade chocolate bars To celebrate this special day and Amble’s Harbour •Ice cream milk shakes reputation as ‘the kindliest port’ Amble Village Co- Pod 15 Amble Harbour Village Harbour Village will be transformed back to ordinators www.mochamondo.com

A fantastic range of Pod 5, Amble Harbour Village Stylish Living For Dogs cosmetics suitable for all ages and budgets! Luxury accessories for the discerning pooch. Pod 2 Amble Harbour Village Stocking everything from dog collars to dog beer Facebook: www.facebook.com/ and popcorn! CoquetCosmetics Twitter: Gifts, @CoquetCosmetics gallery and more! Instagram: @coquetcosmetics Pod 6, Amble Harbour Village Tues - Fri: 11am - 3pm Offering a delicious range of locally made Sat & Sun: 10am - 4pm Find us on Facebook Closed Mondays (except holidays) chocolate and confectionery. www.theppod.co.uk www.kenspeckle.co.uk Pod 8 Amble Harbour Village

The Ambler ~ 3 Through the Lens Street food Grill Topia launched photography competition winners WATER Adult 1st Carol McKay 2nd Penny Horseman 3rd Richard Poyer Highly commended; Joan Robinson (2), Dennis Hall, Richard Poyer, Jim Kirkpatrick, Joanne Payne, Helen Holmes, Clare Douglas, Mack Hetherington, Ann Baston (2), David Riches & Barbara Metzlaff. Children 10 & under 1st Ceara Douglas 2nd Madeleine Newport mble-chef James Forsyth has through The Amble Butchers. Fresh Highly Commended; Finlay Douglas (2) Alaunched a “street-food” outlet as a fish is supplied by local fishermen and and Roisin Horseman way to bring continental-style cuisine to I will be using locally sourced produce the popular coastal resort. The business, when in season.” Young 11 to 18 known as Amble Grill Topia, is located James has worked in numerous 1st Lewis Bond in the Amble harbour area, aimed at restaurants across the region and was 2nd Martha Embleton attracting local people as well as the named as one of Rick Stein’s Food Highly Commended; Lewis Bond, Spencer tourist trade between the harbour and Heroes for his culinary accomplishments Newport(2), Martha Embleton, Hope Vernon and main shopping area. and he has also been a recipient of the Niamh Douglas The venture was extensively prestigious Great Taste Awards. MOVEMENT Adult researched last year by James and the Providing a new street-food concept 1st Carol McKay positive feed-back encouraged him will enhance the choices available to 2nd Amy Baston to prepare the outlet over the winter tourists according to James. 3rd Richard Poyer months for its official summer 2016 “Amble is becoming a renowned hub Highly Commended; Valerie Atkinson, Brian launch. As well as his own meals, James for culinary tastes which has helped lift Flanighan, Barbara Graham, Carol McKay, Ann will be creating authentic Thai dishes the profile of the town and surrounding Baston and Richard Poyer as part of the menu range, with the area and we aim to add to the increasing assistance of Thai born Anna Ireland. variety. Children 10 & under James has international catering “Amble Grill Topia can also be hired 1st Finlay Douglas experience having worked in Thailand for weddings, outdoor functions, charity 2nd Madeleine Newport and New Zealand and is bringing a events and parties and we recently fresh culinary approach to the coastal- provided the catering for a surfing Young 11 to 18 landscape beach party organised by Jon Nolan of 1st Hope Vernon He said: “Amble has a vibrant tourist Northside Surf School, Amble and a 2nd Martha Embleton trade and I am looking forward to wedding at Guyzance Hall for popular COMMUNITY PRIZE PEOPLE’S CHOICE offering visitors a taste-sensation.” local chef Johnny at Sea and Soil.” Amble Outreach Group Amy Baston “We also carry the Made in You can contact James via his or the Northumberland stamp as our high ‘Amble Grill Topia’ Facebook page, or Peter Cordingley quality beef, lamb and pork is supplied [email protected] Amble boat yard will close but Spurreli plans to expand here is mixed news at the harbour as Quays Development has been working in Ttraditional industry makes way for new consultation with planners for about six development. months, but we are still working on a final Fans of Spurreli ice cream will likely presentation,” he said. be excited to hear of plans to expand their In the meantime, planning approval has award-winning eatery, into a two-storey been given for the fourth apartment block at building on a site adjacent to the one it Coble Quay, and work on this should begin occupies now. And plans are also afoot to in September, with a completion date a year create new housing, holiday lets and retail later. pods, on the site of the current boat yard. In plans still to be submitted, Spurreli Nick Spurr, owner of the boat yard Boutique Ice Cream wants to expand to explained his vision for the harbourside site. allow more seating capacity, including a “The decision has been made to close glazed balcony and roof terrace with patio Amble Boat Company and develop the The loss of nine jobs at the boatyard is heaters on the first floor. whole site,” he told The Ambler. a blow to the town, a fact of which Nick is “We want to retain the same character, “But it’s not a decision that has been acutely aware. “I don’t want Amble, having but make it bigger and nice and open. taken lightly. I’ve spent my whole life in given us a livelihood for the last 25 years, Upstairs we will also provide a relaxed the marine industry and I’m very focused to then lose a facility that’s been there about licensed bar and a clean, fresh lounge area. on trying to retain a marine facility in the 100 years,” he said. We hope to create a pleasant evening venue town. I am talking to Warkworth Harbour Nick described the plans to transform and the whole development should create Commissioners and the Marina to see if it is the boat yard site, with the big blue building many new jobs.” possible to retain some boat repair facility on replaced by a mix of apartments, holiday the old Shorebase Trust site.” lets, retail pods and a restaurant. “Coble Anna Williams 4 ~ The Ambler Living a full life eeing a 93-year-old man to the Far East, the Middle Swalking pretty slowly with East and on to Germany. a four wheeled walker gives Coming out of the Army, no indication of the active and as so many NCOs did, with varied life he has lived. the end of national service James M Johnston (known in the late 1950s, he joined to nearly everybody as Johnny) the WDC (War Department was born in 1922 in the Scottish Constabulary, now the MOD borders. His father was a farm Police.) work kept him busy, worker, working on a number but so did his enthusiasm of farms during the childhood for football refereeing and of his five children. Village running. I only saw him ref schools were the source of formal once, and predictably there education, but I can’t help feeling was only one man in charge that real learning came from of the game, making good active living and the challenges and fair decisions. of farm life in those days. Johnny had always been Johnny always knew that fit, hence his selection as a Johnny Johnston and his daughter Barbara Bugg at the ceremony where he was he wanted a life away from the para, so he took to running awarded the Legion d’Honneur drudgery of farm work, so he like a duck to water. He has a very important part of the trophies now includes the became a boy soldier at the age run all over the world in a range logistics team, besides working Legion D’Honneur, given to of 14. of events from 5,000 and 10,000 as a nurse for many years, D-Day veterans by the French During the next twenty odd metres to marathons, with a including a spell in a military government in a recent and very years he was in turn, a piper, good sprinkling of cross country hospital. moving presentation ceremony at a pipe major, a paratrooper, a races (probably his favourite It seemed right that Vera RAF Elrington in Yorkshire. It’s parachute instructor, a PTIC and mine!) The bronze medal and Johnny came to live here more than 72 years since Johnny (physical training instructor), he won in veterans’ athletics in Amble, Vera’s home town. landed as a Pathfinder, and then a member of a tank crew, and a events in Melbourne must be a They’ve lived here for 30 made his way through Europe tank driving instructor. highlight. years, longer than they’ve lived with a “borrowed” American Johnny’s service life took him The map in their garage anywhere else, having a full and carbine, with its complement of to various UK postings, to the is testimony to the travels of widely travelled retirement. ammunition. How’s that for a D-Day landings as a Pathfinder, Johnny and his wife of 67 years, Johnny’s range of military full life? on through France and Germany, Vera. I know that Vera has been and sporting medals and Harry McQuillen Giving you quicker access to your doctor e know that getting to HOW IT WORKS: Wsee a doctor has been We will only pre-book 20% frustrating and difficult at times of our available appointments. so we are changing the way that This has been supported by we work to enable you to get capacity and demand analyses help from us more easily, as the carried out in practices. demand for GP appointments All of our other continues to increase. appointments will be released Now you will not have on the day so that when you to rely on calling early or contact the surgery to ask for persuading our receptionist an appointment, you should be that your case is urgent in order offered an appointment on the to get seen on the day of your same day. choice. We will still have an on-call Around the country it has duty doctor each day to enable been found that the closer people anyone who is acutely unwell to book to the date that they want speak to a doctor and, if needed, to be seen, the less likely are they be seen in an “emergency to fail to attend. This means appointment”. that less time is wasted and the If you just want advice or doctor can see you sooner. some other type of help from It will no longer be necessary the doctor and this can be done therefore, for you to book via the telephone, then you will appointments in advance. be able to request a telephone Practices all around the consultation appointment. country have started working Thank you for your co- like this and they have found operation and we welcome your that where they offer this service, feedback. patients are much happier with the service that they get. Coquet Medical Group

The Ambler ~ 5 WHAT YOU SAY... Keep dogs out of the water feature Lyra wins the Puffin Trail Third trip to paddlers park, lovely, kids love it. Unfortunately third My daughter Lyra Burst won the time people have had dogs in the water feature when there are clear Puffin Trail that was held during signs saying to keep dogs out. Puffin week. Puffins are Lyra’s favourite animal and she loves Carl Donaldson via Facebook visiting Coquet Island to see them. We all had great fun tracking Dog ban discriminates disabled down Pete the Puffin and discovering what he had been Having read all the Facebook comments regarding the Little Shore doing. Lyra is looking forward to and subsequent dog bans, I see posts stating that the other beaches trying some of the activities that should be used for those disabled dog owners to exercise their dogs. Pete was doing in the future. Has anyone considered how the disabled are to access these beaches? Surfing is first on her list. The disabled are being discriminated against. Lyra was very excited to hear May I request that a meeting be held with Amble Town Council that she had won the trail and was as a start to discuss this matter? This if need be has to go higher over the moon to receive her prize, than our own local authorities. It is clear that the decision made by she has named the two puffin toys WHC to impose the ban clearly overlooked or chose to overlook Primrose and Poppy. the impact upon the community as a whole. I have also noticed that My parents who live in Amble WHC choses to charge disabled badge holders for the use of parking thought you would appreciate a facilities. picture of Lyra with her puffins. Puffin Trail winner Lyra Burst Rob Hewitson via Facebook Rhiannon Morgan, via email

Praise for Harry, Bob and Jordan What will happen to Dovecote

Me and the wife and the kids would like to thank Harry [McQuillen] Centre’s classes? on his very informative walk / talk [during the Puffin Festival]. I have heard that the Dovecote Centre is to close this year. It was an absolute pleasure to listen to this man, his enthusiasm Please do you know if this information is correct and if so whether for Amble is great and I hope when I get to his age I’m half as fit as adult education classes and other activities will still be available in he is... Amble. Harry you are a star and once again thank you for a wonderful Many thanks walk and talk. We also popped into the Masonic Hall and it was a pleasure to Jean Baird, Amble meet Bob and Jordan, and the son loved the fact he was allowed Ed: We have spoken to the council’s adult learning service but to sit in the Masters chair. Thank you gentlemen and I will see you they had no information on any new venue. We will keep trying! both in the future. See also p8. John Gordon via Facebook Variety show success Amble's Variety Show on May 13 in St. Mark's Church was a huge Flying success. The Church was so packed, extra chairs had to be found for the throng. Scotsman The performers were all brilliant: we had singers (soloists and groups), piano and fiddle players, poets, story-tellers, puppets, and a passes by tribute to the late Victoria Wood. Everyone was able to get in for free, but when we asked for Up bright and early donations for Christian Aid a total of £1000 was raised and we are again and headed overwhelmed by the generosity of those who attended and performed. just up the road to Thank you all so much. Acklington platform to capture a couple Sue Swanston, Amble of images of the Flying Scotsman as it made its return Poem: Here comes summer journey from Soon trees and plants will be in Most people you greet on the Edinburgh to York bloom street this morning. Gone are winter cold days and always have a smile in this fine frosts weather Andrew Mounsey No need to huddle around the fire You say good morning to someone Photography via at home You could travel for miles Facebook Get out in the sunshine and roam. Norman Clay, Amble

We welcome your letters, email, Facebook and Twitter comments for publication. Your name and address must be supplied, but will be withheld on request. Letters may be edited. Contact details on page2.

6 ~ The Ambler Live bird feed shows all summer ameras on Coquet Island which means he will be visiting Care showing live footage of several areas in the UK to explain birds throughout the summer, how the Coquet Island team allowing members of the public manage the birds and give advice the chance to see and hear the where needed. island’s feathered population in “I’ve recently been to Wales real time. and I explained how we work; The two cameras are the tern terraces, nest boxes etc. positioned on the roseate tern We’ve got 111 roseate terns now, terraces, as part of a project which is the first time there’s aimed at improving the been more than 100 in 40 years. conservation prospects of roseate The lowest point was 18 in terns, which are the UK’s rarest 2000. That’s when we built the nesting seabirds. Coquet Island terraces. We had 34 the first year. is home to 90% of the roseate Now over 50% of roseate terns tern population in the UK. are born on Coquet Island. They RSPB Coquet Island’s head go to Ghana to overwinter, but See Coquet Island’s puffins and roseate terns in real time via the webcam warden Paul Morrison showed they only breed here.” the live footage at his talk at this And to illustrate the Davies described some of the model seabirds. They were able year’s puffin festival, together importance of the project, he events: “Our old night hide was to learn about migration by with 360 degree virtual reality brought the number into sharp installed for people to look at drawing on giant world maps headsets with footage from focus. “There are more roseate and experience what it might be around the gallery and made a Coquet Island. terns on Coquet Island than in like. The live stream was a large massive nest to have their photo At a week-long event the whole of France.” projection and the cinema room taken in and learn about ‘homes at the BALTIC Centre for The EU funded a £2M played Coquet Island films. for nature’. Contemporary Arts in Gateshead project that will last for 5 years There were island artefacts to “After the event, the live feed there was a big screen link to the and is shared between RSPB touch and smell, as well as the will stay up for everybody until live footage, as well as various art Coquet Island, Anglesey Wildlife virtual reality puffin headsets.” the rosys head off to winter,” projects in the contemporary art Trust and BirdWatch Ireland. Artwork produced by local said Wez. gallery and in local schools. Of the event which ran at children was displayed on the Google “RSPB Coquet Paul has been appointed ‘UK the BALTIC during the spring internet, while at BALTIC itself, Island bird cam” to find the link Ambassador for roseate terns’ – half term, assistant warden Wez artists helped children to make to the live footage. Welcome to new businesses on Queen Street olly’s and Daisy’s is a new in Morpeth, but it fell through. 06 Marmaris Turkish Barbers towel shaves, the brothers also Dtea room and gift shop, My sister lives at Widdrington and are open seven days a week offer hot waxing, face masks and owned by a mother and daughter Station and we had a ride up to (half day on Sunday). head and neck massages. Not team from Tynemouth. Tracey Amble. We saw this shop and “We’ve worked all over to mention ear flaming (look it Brooks runs Dolly’s, the gift thought ‘That’s it’” Northumberland,” said Yusuf, up) which Yusuf assured me is shop, while her daughter Sophie Afternoon tea is the “but we chose Amble, because an excellent and effective way to Garside runs Daisy’s tea room. main focus of Daisy’s, with there are no Turkish barbers remove unwanted ear hair! “My mother already sold sandwiches, scones and cakes around here. They are mostly And look out for Toys and gifts in Tynemouth,” said Sophie. sold all day. based nearer Newcastle.” Trinkets due to open in the “We decided to get a shop Brothers Yusuf and TJ As well as offering haircuts former Classic Shoes shop. together and we were looking Sabanici have just opened and styling, beard trims and hot Anna Williams Campaign for superfast broadband throughout Northumberland he Queen’s Speech saw the annual line. Just as there is for telephone lines, there level of improvement. Tpageantry descend on the Palace of will need to be a cap on the cost that the However it is Westminster, but the real interest is in the universal service provider or providers can very important that list of upcoming Government Bills. For me, be reasonably expected to pay. That is the people check via the the one which will have the biggest impact element which will prove important in areas iNorthumberland on Northumberland is the Digital Economy such as ours. website (http://www. Bill, which will introduce a ‘universal service I will be scrutinising this bill very inorthumberland.org. obligation’ for broadband. carefully to ensure that it will indeed uk/) if it is in theory available via By next year, 95% of homes in the UK enable the vast majority of homes in the exchange, as present statistics indicate will be able to access superfast broadband, Northumberland to access broadband of a that only 30-35% of those who are able to but here in rural Northumberland, we often decent speed. This consultation will be used take up superfast broadband contracts have struggle to get a half-decent connection, to decide the financial commitment required done so. which affects businesses, schools and families. to support rural communities in accessing the With the fast-moving pace of digital The reason I have campaigned for a 10Mbps broadband service. development to business and medicine, I universal service obligation for broadband, Many parts of north Northumberland want to ensure as many homes as possible is that I believe it should be on the same are now able to access superfast broadband convert to superfast contracts so BT’s footing as telephony. This means that fast where BT has upgraded its cabinets, although commitment to reinvest Government subsidy broadband will be available on request, I am acutely aware that the nature of the into the fibre network can be achieved as putting broadband connections on a par system is such that residents more than a mile soon as possible. with the obligation to provide a telephone from the cabinet will not see the maximum Anne-Marie Trevelyan, M.P. The Ambler ~ 7 Dovecote Centre in shock closure Age of insecurity orthumberland County sustainable into the future, The Dovecote Centre NCouncil have announced and to keep course prices is owned by the Diocese of ’ve never felt that the Dovecote Centre will down. These are challenging Newcastle and has been leased Ithat my general close from 25 July. financial times for the council, to Northumberland County title for my The building was home and the service has also lost Council for decades. ramblings was to adult learning classes, keep over £500,000 through the A spokesman said: “The so appropriate. fit classes, Busy Bees Nursery ending of Government grants Diocese of Newcastle has Insecurity is the and Dovecote toddler group. for community learning. only just been advised of order of the day. Tracey Dixon of Busy “We have given notice to the closure of the Dovecote Today, I listened Bees nursery told The Ambler the toddler group and other Centre by Northumberland to a broadcast address by Angelina they had no prior warning of building users, and explained County Council, and will the closure “ It was an awful that this has not been an easy be reviewing the future of Jolie-Pitt to a large audience of shock,” she said. “We are decision. this former school building interested people. Her topic was looking for premises, so if “The council is reviewing shortly.” migration and the plight of so many anyone can help us we would the use of all buildings When asked, the council’s migrants of all ages and backgrounds. be grateful.” - and we have already adult learning service had no We hear daily reference to demands A spokesperson for identified opportunities to information on any future by Turkey for their people to be Northumberland County generate over £33million in venue for classes, but said allowed to travel freely in the EU or Council said: “The adult capital income, contribute they would let us know as at least in most of the EU. learning service has found significantly to economic soon as they could. Next, we hear about Donald that it will be able to offer growth and regeneration If you can help Busy Bees, Trump, a presidential hopeful, who courses in the Amble area, and make annual savings in who need premises for 15 arouses howls of protest and laughter in local venues, without the running costs of £3.4million hours per week, 3 hours per in equal measure. need to fund the cost of a full by selling off surplus day, morning or afternoon, The fact that this is the warmest time centre. buildings and ensuring all please contact Tracey year on record (or was it last year?) “The move will help to remaining properties are fit Dixon on 0772 8622221 may have a connection to the ensure that the service is for purpose.” [email protected] devastating fires in Alberta and to climate change in general. So Improve your lifestyle talk by author raises many conflicts, natural disasters and diseases, with other causes of tension money for Shannon appeal and insecurity! nne-Lise Miller, a Our own EU referendum and Anaturopathic practitioner discussions about it seem to generate gave a lecture in ‘Sea and Soil’ more heat than light. Of course, to a small enthusiastic audience economic forecasts rarely seem to interested in maintaining a come to valid conclusions. Perhaps, healthy lifestyle, understanding like most political careers, they are how to help our bodies thrive doomed to failure. through healthy eating and I didn’t intend to comment on the exercise. referendum or give a judgement. I Anne-Lise whose mantra must now confess that I’ll abstain, and is “don’t delegate health, not vote at all. My reason is simple: it’s yours” also explained as an octogenarian on the ‘Downhill the benefits to health of Run of Life’, I’m sure that the result Colonic Hydrotherapy and will be of lesser consequence for me Detoxification. than for the three generations that Organiser Hazel Small follow me. I believe that it should said “I wanted to highlight be their decision. Through all the digestive/colonic health and fact and fiction of the EU debate, influences which can help Anne-Lise Miller and Hazel Small or hinder it. Anne-Lise, my the decision probably depends on tutor and adviser from many These were delightfully prepared by Jonny gut feeling. Perhaps it’s a bit like years, came along to give an overview of the Bird. There were wheat free, dairy free and marriage: we feel that we know digestive system and point out in general how vegetarian options to cater for different tastes what’s right. optimizing your health through maintaining a and dietary requests. Our great old town seems to be healthy gut can help prevent many mental and Finally, the afternoon was rounded off doing OK. People visit Amble, like it physical diseases. with an auction of goodies to raise funds for and come back. She also offered a book signing of her the Amble Lifeboat as it is a charity Hazel By the time we read the next newly published book 'Too Young to Grow personally likes to support. edition of The Ambler, the Great Old' which gives very insightful information Donations for the raffle came from Result will be out. Will it make much about keeping your gut healthy and improving Hazel, Park Leisure, Ashley Sims from The difference to most of us? We’ll still live your overall health. 'P' Pod and Karen from Edie Pebbles (both in houses (some of us), eat food, and The book is in bite sized chunks so it's not at the Harbour Village), Emma Manners do the things we can do. overwhelming for those with little knowledge Independent Consultant with ARBONNE, And, as I always say, things on the subject and there are useful recipes and Amanda Barrell Tai Chi Instructor at In Sync. will work out better if we do them tips for healthier eating. £212 was raised. TOGETHER. Local singer Brian English entertained the Another event is planned for September, Harry McQuillen guests whilst wine and canapés were served. venue to be confirmed. 8 ~ The Ambler Tackling under-age drinking new partnership has been set up in Work is already ongoing, but by a AAlnwick and Amble to help tackle under- number of different organisations, and age drinking and warn young people about by bringing it under a CAP organisers the dangers of alcohol. can tap into more funding and resource The Alnwick Community Alcohol opportunities. Partnership (CAP) brings together a range of Alnwick CAP is the 105th CAP partners including local retailers and licensees, nationwide and is being coordinated under councillors, police, health services, housing the Safer Northumberland partnership by providers and schools to tackle the problem Community Safety Officer Judith Davis. of underage drinking and associated anti- Derek Lewis, the national Chair of CAP social behaviour. The partnership aims to: added: "I’m delighted at the launch of a • Reduce youth-related anti-social Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) in behaviour associated with alcohol Alnwick. consumption “Community Alcohol Partnerships are • Improve the health of young people so a tried and tested way of driving down they are aware of the consequences associated underage drinking and creating better, safer with drinking alcohol and to support agencies and friendlier neighbourhoods.” who work with young people to do this. Anyone wishing to report underage • Improve general understanding of safe drinking, the sale of alcohol to young people drinking limits and the law relating to the sale or any other related issues should contact of alcohol to young people. their neighbourhood police team on 101. • Develop a responsible retailing ethos and Above: Judith Davis with Alan Simpson the area effective partnership approach. Judith Davis CAP officer Love Northumberland, hate litter s the weather gets warmer and down toilets; and small plastic pellets, often and animals and it is our duty to limit the Abeach barbeques and picnics become consumed by marine wildlife, known to impact we have on our environment as much increasingly popular, the council are environmentalists as "mermaids’ tears.” as possible.” encouraging visitors to act responsibly to Jane Lancaster, Coastal Ranger for the The effects of littering include harm to make sure all litter is either binned or taken National Trust, who manage over 12 miles the environment, a threat to public health, home, leaving the beaches unspoilt and safe. of Northumberland’s coastline, said: “We and the huge cost to the tax payer of cleaning This initiative is part of the ‘Love welcome the council’s campaign against up public spaces. It is also unsightly and has Northumberland, Hate Litter’ campaign, litter and appreciate every item of rubbish a negative impact on the tourism industry. Northumberland County Council’s drive to that is collected by clean up the county. schoolchildren, By adopting the three ‘e’s approach, local residents and ‘education, engagement and enforcement’, visitors. I would the campaign aims to raise awareness of the especially like to problems associated with littering and works thank class 5c from proactively with schools and business to Seahouses Middle mark positive action. School for all their Lending their support to the campaign, support. pupils from Seahouses Middle school took Litter poses a part in a litter pick on St Aidan’s beach, significant risk to organised by the National Trust. wildlife especially Amongst the many items the children in areas such as the removed from the beach were plastic bottles Farne Islands which and bags which can take over 450 years provide breeding to biodegrade; hundreds of cotton buds grounds for many which entered the ocean after being flushed rare species of birds

The Ambler ~ 9 Amble Links School continues to be good mble Links School has been issued with and learning and are well looked after. Governors are a regular presence in Atheir latest Ofsted report, which makes They express pride in their own and others’ the school. They consistently challenge the good reading for staff and parents. achievements, which helps develop learning school to make further improvements. The schools inspector visited Amble skills and foster positive relationships, The majority of parents speak very highly Links in April and reported that the preparing them well for later life. of the school and its leaders. Parents agree leadership team has maintained a good Protecting children and keeping them that pupils in the school are well behaved and quality of education since the last inspection safe is central to the day-to-day work of the that their children feel safe. The opportunity in 2011. school. to visit the school’s reward assemblies, each Parents appreciated that the staff were Levels of attendance and punctuality are Friday, is greatly valued. A few parents approachable and the school had a strong improving. Home, school and other agencies disagree with the amount of homework culture of inclusivity. work in partnership to resolve concerns. pupils receive. However, others express The school is making better use of Children understand the different forms that positive views saying the homework is up-to-date information and computer bullying can take and how this can affect helpful in allowing them the opportunity to technology enhances teaching and learning others. contribute to their child’s learning, especially opportunities. The proportion of children Work to improve boys’ interest and through the online systems the school offers. reaching expected standards at the end of abilities in writing has been tackled by Ofsted suggests that the next steps for the reception year has steadily improved making writing more attractive and the school should be further support for and sits above the national figure, and this meaningful to them, tailoring topics and recently established leaders to develop the is often from starting at a lower standard. offering exciting writing challenges. knowledge and skills needed to have rapid The proportion of key stage 1 pupils All staff agree that the school is well and substantial impact on improvement; reaching expected standards is also in line managed. staff use the recently developed assessment with the national average Pupils in key New reading material offers key stage 2 system with consistency and rigour to stage 2 are making good progress and are pupils opportunities to develop higher-level accurately track the progress and attainment effectively prepared for the next stage in their analytical skills and daily ‘know, understand of pupils; and that the teaching of reading education. and apply’ challenges demand greater depth improves to enable more pupils to reach the Pupils say they enjoy coming to school of learning. highest possible standards. Girlguiding in Amble and Warkworth here are now TRainbows, Brownies, Guides and Senior Section units running locally. Rainbows are for girls aged 5-7, Brownies for 7-10 and Guides 10-14, Senior Section is for those up to 26. Girlguiding offers a space for girls to be themselves, have fun, build friendships, gain valuable life skills and make a positive difference to their lives and communities. This term the Rainbows have been working their Alice in Wonderland Challenge Badge by Girls having a great time at a Thinking Day event in Morpeth designing and painting teapots, playing card games and learning a dance. New film promotes the council’s plans Brownies made pizza in new film explaining the council’s Market Towns’ The move to locate facilities together under one an outdoor oven and had a Initiative is now available online. To help ensure roof wherever possible in towns will make it easier for visit from the Community A the public know the reasons behind the authority’s residents to access key frontline services in their local Police team to teach them plans for its nine major towns, including relocating area. how to make an emergency County Hall to Ashington, a short film has been Grant Davey, Leader of Northumberland County phone call. created. Council, said: “Making sure everyone has a good Amble Guides went to It explains the rationale behind the plans, how understanding of the reasons behind our market Druridge Bay for a Capture savings are being made and the benefits to the people towns initiative is vital. After all it will be the public the Flag wide game, one of Northumberland. who will reap the benefits of services being located of the activities, along Across Northumberland the council has identified together in our market towns in fresh, modern with archery, on the Victor opportunities to generate over £33million in capital facilities”. Challenge badge they income, contribute significantly to economic growth “This short film explains the reasons behind the completed. and regeneration and make annual savings in running decisions we’ve taken and our future plans – all in the If your daughter would costs of £3.4million by selling off its surplus buildings space of two-and-a-half minutes.” like to join, please register and ensuring all its remaining properties are fit for the To view the film, visit www.northumberland.gov. your interest at www. 21st Century. uk/future girlguiding.org.uk/joinus. 10 ~ The Ambler Puffin Festival fun

l-r top row: Tribe Zuza, Scotty’s circus skills, Above: Tommy Noddy and friends, learning about nature at the RSPB stall, Tommy and the sisters. Right: Caribbean Crew at the Food Festival. More on p14, 24 and our website. Photos by Bartle Rippon, Andrew Mounsey Photography and Anna Williams

The Ambler ~ 11 Paddlers Park Investigated Euro 2016 football The Olympics! A lot of money (about £180,000) has been spent on new equipment and layout at the Paddlers, so we decided tournament to go and check it out. Here is our report The Olympics is being held on the 5th -21st of August Dates: 10 June at Rio. It is a huge sporting competition where AVA - 10 July sportsmen from around the world compete, but the Activity Opinion We are true meaning of the games is unity and peace. Air walker (runny swingy thingy AWESOME! supporting Double Rower Hard ENGLAND of Artograffi have been talking to Laura Weightman, a Balancing thing Easy course, but runner who is training for this years’ games. Last games Water structure Great we also are doing a fun game she ran the 1500m final and came 11th! We asked her What is it like coming all the way from a small club like Plate spin Difficult where we all drew a different team some questions: Morpeth harriers to an Olympic final? Teacup Fun from a hat. Whoever gets the It’s amazing to look back and think my running Hopscotch OK winning team wins a prize. We heard you were training abroad; where are you at the journey began as a young 12 year old running for Overall opinion: minute? Morpeth harriers. I am proud to still represent I really like the new paddlers park, especially Bethany : Belgium + England I have been on a few training camps this year to Morpeth and compete for the runny swingy thingy. Lily T : Russia + Northern Ireland build up to the summer season. I spent 4 weeks the team in races through the Ava : Ukraine + Italy in Kenya at altitude in January, I then went to winter. LILY Lily W: Portugal + Sweden Portugal in April for 10 days warm weather training and then my final training camp was in Activity Opinion Check out our latest video! Emma : Albania +Wales What is it like being in the Air Walker Amazeballs!! Best Ever!! Louise : Poland + Austria Font Romeu, France, this was another altitude Olympics? training camp. These camps help me prepare for Competing at the Olympic Double Rower Cool but clonky On a rainy day we went to Amble Harbour Village pods and Anna : Spain+ Romania the season getting some good quality training Games is an incredible Water Feature Fun and pretty interviewed some of the people who own pods. Mark : Germany + Rep. Ireland Tunnel Rubbish, all muddy By Bethany Sales done. experience, London 2012 was a dream come true. It’s an honour Bars (parallel) Fun and simple We interviewed When will you hear if you have qualified for the 2016 to represent your country and Bars Fun and simple Val from Lady Olympics? I hope I can do everyone proud Table tennis Cool and quirky Milly, Dawn To qualify for Rio I have to finish in the top 2 again in August. General design Pretty and holiday-like from Kenspeckle, at the British championships the last weekend Overall opinion: Laura from in June. I have already run the qualifying time We wish her and all of Britain’s Fun and a great tourist attraction, the design is Coquet which is 4:07.00. In my first race of the season other sportspeople the best of really holiday beach themed and is super pretty Cosmetics, in America at the Eugene diamond league I ran luck! Martin from 4:03.04. By Lily T GEORGE-ANNE Mocha Mondo Laura in training Activity Opinion coffee and a lady Air Walker Disorientating from the Boat Water Guide Fun Shed Gallery. Swing Fun Parkour Chicago 1970’s good Kenspeckle gave Overall opinion: us coal (not real A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. Favourite: Parkour coal, chocolate coal!) It was really fun despite the weather. You can see it on Artograffi’s Facebook page. By Ava LOUISE Activity Opinion Double Rower Rough and bumpy and I could feel my muscles Binky and the Panda games Water feature: I enjoyed it. You have to pull Binky and all his friends were serious sport. As much as Blossom the pump to get the water out playing in the forest, chatting about and Bazzle tried to reassure him Parallel bars: Hard! the huge panda games coming up. that team unity (their team) would Turn about Pegasus Overall Opinion: They were comparing favourite win he couldn’t hide his nerves. Turn About Pegasus is a group horses. programme she was completely calm My favourite was the water feature. sports pandas when Bazzle had an Binky was certain he would be the project held at Hetton Steads for the On week one we had to learn, by and able to cope with all the horses. idea. only one in the team to lose. surrounding schools, e.g. St Paul’s ourselves, how to put a halter on A big bonus. BETHANY Middle School. The project includes: and groom the horses, getting to On the fourth week we made an Activity Opinion “Hey! Why don’t we have our own When it came to his event, Binky • Learning new skills like teamwork, know them. We struggled… but obstacle course, which we ran Air walker Fun but tiring mini panda games! Then we could was so scared he could barely grip non-verbal communication etc. were determined. On the second ourselves too. On the fifth week we Double Rower Very hard not fun compete just like Laura Pandaman the bamboo. Yet once he got going • Learning to listen, increase self week, we tried putting halters on the raced the two Shetland ponies after Water features: Very attractive and fun and Pandasain Bolt.” he was zooming up! He reached the confidence and try new things. horses… again… mainly a major we tested it ourselves! It was great Bars: Good for flips top in 30 seconds flat and looked fail… however by week three we had fun and everyone loved it. Swings: Very fun and enjoyable So they each got into teams of six, down to see the others still on Pegasus was started by Tracie Faa- mastered it! Hopscotch: Fun and bright one for archery, jumping, running, the floor! They were so big they Thompson. Miss Tracey Young The children doing Turn About Pretty graphics: Cool bright and good for small swimming, kung fu and bamboo couldn’t climb up at all. identifies children in need of One session we took the horses Pegasus aren’t allowed to ride the children climbing. Binky immediately learning new skills about themselves for a walk about a mile north west. horses but they are allowed to direct Overall opinion signed up for bamboo climbing… After Bazzle hit a bullseye and and others and sets up the trips to go Madonna, a mischievous Shetland, the horses, feed the horses carrots, My favourite piece of equipment was the foot thing but he hadn’t seen who he was Blossom swam the length of the to Hetton Steads, near Wooler. shook his head against the two groom the horses to say ‘thank you’ as two people can go on it and you can talk it is also up against! Three of the biggest, lake, team unity got the gold. guiding him. He scared the girl, and talk to the horses - We were very fun. Although I was a bit disappointed with strongest pandas had been chosen “Maybe,” thought Binky to himself, There are two Shetland ponies, causing her to walk behind the upset when we had to say goodbye! how much was there but still very fun. to represent the other teams, as “next time I can go to the real Gyspy Vanners and grey Arabian horses, crying. By the end of the By George-Anne bamboo climbing was the most Panda games!” By Lily T

99 artog.indd 1 17/06/2016 13:34:13 Photos by Bartle Rippon, Andrew Mounsey Photography, Anna Williams and Radcliffe Club

Puffin Festival fun

Top l-r: At the PARRT dog show, Lilydee Bell won Best Young Handler, Riverside Falconry, Puffintastic crafts Above: Coastal Rowing Club’s skiff racing, Tommy Noddy and friends. Below: having a splashing time at Radcliffe Club’s funday. See also p1, 11, 24 and our website.

14 ~ The Ambler Colourful beach huts Dog ban causes controversy arkworth Harbour Commissioners have recently announced a ban line the Little Shore Won dogs on the Little Shore beach and dunes, although they are still allowed on the grass. A WHC spokesman SP: Warkworth Harbour Amble haven’t responded to the explained why they had taken the “ questions on the original post. decision: “It was in response to a I’m paying no attention until significant number of complaints someone lays out how it was decided of so much dog poo in the dunes and how it is enforceable. I clean and beach, but dogs are still free up after my dog so I don’t see why I to walk on the green and pier.” can’t use the beach :) But the decision has caused a great deal of conversation on AT: What a shame. We’ve been coming twice a year for 20 years, upils from Amble First Schools were invited to name and select social media, with many unhappy the colours of the eight new beach huts being built at the Little staying at Ladbroke St. Our 2 dogs P that the announcement was love to go on the beach. Shore. Four of the huts will be short term lets, while the other four initially made on Facebook. will be long term (one year). But the Harbour JPT: I agree some people never pick 1. Buckets & Spades: white with a green door (Amble Links First Commissioners defended up after their dogs when they take School) the decision and blamed their dogs out after dark so no one 2. Pier View: blue with a green door (Amble First School) irresponsible dog owners for can see them. 3. Sea Shell: peach with a yellow door (Amble Links First School) failing to pick up after their pets. SI: What about CCTV to spot the 4. Beachcomber: pale pink with a lilac door (Amble First School) “The harbour authority’s 5. Lobster Pot: blue with a lilac door (Amble Links First School) offending dog owners. Much prime role is the management better that banning dogs. 6. Sunlight: yellow with pink door (Amble First School) of the harbour and that does 7. Sunny Days: green with an orange door (Amble Links First include some recreational areas,” said a spokesman. ” School) “It is only right that families should be able to come down and enjoy 8. Sandhaven: turquoise with a green door (Amble First School) the beach. The responsible dog owners (including some members of Rental prices for the small huts range from £20 per day, £50 WHC) have been penalised, because of irresponsible owners.” per weekend and £120 for a week, to £150 per year. A deposit is required. To book, contact the Harbour Office 01665 710306. Anna Williams Work underway on A1 underpass Rotary in the flower beds ork has begun on creating a new underpass on Wthe A1 at Morpeth which will form a key part of the junction between the road and the new Morpeth Northern Bypass. The works will mean drivers will be using a new section of road for the first time. It marks the latest stage in the £30m Morpeth Northern Bypass scheme which will cut congestion in Morpeth and reduce travel time and costs between the A1 and the South East Northumberland. Both northbound and southbound A1 traffic will be diverted from the existing carriageway to use newly constructed lengths of road running along each side of the A1 which will eventually become the slip roads for the new junction. Northbound drivers will filter off the A1 between the River Wansbeck and the A697 slip road and travel along the new section of road. The southbound diversion will be in place for Members of the Rotary Club during a tidying session of the flower beds around Amble several months and will allow excavation of the A1 Town Square. This was part of their continuing Community Project work which has involved fence-painting at Brambles Child Care Centre, repairing a damaged trough at embankment and the creation of an underpass beneath the entrance to Warkworth and helping Warkworth in Bloom spruce up a flower bed. the road which will ultimately allow traffic to join and leave the new bypass at its western end. he new Rotary year begins on July 1 being formed, namely: Projects: Fund- Councillor Ian Swithenbank, Cabinet member for Tand at the Rotary meeting on June Raising and Social/Entertainment Local Services, said: “This new diversion marks the 28, Rotarian Dave Shoemaker handed which replace the former Community, start of one of the next major stages of this impressive over the Presidency to Rotarian Stephen International and Club committees. engineering project. This method of construction Kerry. In his valedictory address Dave The new team is as follows: using the future slip roads whilst we construct the congratulated all members of the club President: Stephen Kerry bridge will allow the works to be carried out much on another highly successful year, which Senior Vice President more quickly and safely than other methods and also has seen the club take part in a number and Treasurer: John Geggie minimise traffic delays”. of projects for the community as well Secretary: Fred Calvert The 2.4 mile bypass is scheduled for completion in as raising in excess of £5,000 for local Chairmen of committees: March 2017. charities and good causes. Projects: Paul Creighton More information on the Morpeth Northern A number of changes have taken Fund-Raising: Derek Conway Bypass can be found at www.morpethnorthernbypass. place including moving the weekly Social / Entertainment: Tim Mason org and road users can stay up to date with closures meetings to The Hermitage Inn in For further information on your for works by following the project on Twitter at Warkworth. Committees have also local Rotary Club see: www. @MorpethBypass. changed with three new committees ambleandwarkworthrotary.org The Ambler ~ 15 Brambles’ superhero kids lots of games for the children to There are also some enjoy, all raising funds for much exciting new sessions launching needed resources and activities at at Brambles in the next few Brambles. months. Time Out for Two Year We would like to say a Olds is a three hour session on big thank you to the Radcliffe Friday afternoons from 1-4pm Club for letting us hold the and costing only £10. event there and to JPS Discos This is to introduce them to for providing the brilliant a nursery environment, allow entertainment. social interaction opportunities We have also had great and give mum and dad a support from the Rotary Club few hours break! Places are of Amble and Warkworth. limited and must be booked in Over a period of three weeks a advance although there is no group of their volunteers came commitment to attend every and painted the whole of our week. exterior fence and tidied up the Also watch out for our surrounding area. Summer Sizzler sessions over the We are so grateful for their summer holidays which will be help and they only asked for two hour sessions for first school coffee and cake in return! This aged children and will be jam e have been very busy superhero activity. It was a in turn, has enabled us to start packed with fun activities. Wfundraising at Bramble. great day and we were even work on an exciting new project For further information on On Friday May 13 we took part interviewed live on Metro which, with the support of this, or to discuss any childcare in Metro Radio’s Cash for Kids Radio! other community groups and needs, please call 01665 710453 Superhero Day. Friday May 20 saw our local businesses, will see a side or pop in for a chat. This involved the children Family Fun Night at the of the fence decorated with our and staff dressing up, making Radcliffe Club. There was a children’s artwork. Watch this Ailsa Dellbridge and selling cakes and lots of raffle, domino cards, disco and space for more details. Brambles Childcare Centre Beware of telephone scams orthumberland County call claiming to be offering a scam and once the code had been Ledger, Deputy Leader of NCouncil is urging residents government grant of £8,000. handed over – the money would Northumberland County to be on their guard following The resident was told that in have been lost. Council, said: “If you receive a complaints about scam phone order to receive the grant they The phone call appeared to phone call that you’re concerned calls offering large sums of cash. must pay £210 via a money be linked to a telephone survey about, don’t be afraid to The warning follows a transfer site and then provide the the resident had completed about terminate the call and seek advice recent complaint from a resident caller with the details to release their TV viewing habits. from Citizens Advice Consumer who received a scam phone the money. The offer is in fact a Councillor David Service on 0345 4040506.” Fishermen’s Mission: highlighting the dangers of fishing he Fishermen’s Mission is a lived without closure. Tnational charity that works “Here are some of the facts solely to provide support for that we find so shocking,” says fishermen and their families. the charity spokesperson. They have been speaking out “If you work as a fisherman about the dangers of fishing. from 16 to 65 then you have a 1 ‘In the past four weeks nine in 14 chance of dying at work. fishermen have died at sea, and The fatality rate on UK of that number, two have yet to Fishing Vessels is 60 per be found. 100,000, in Agriculture it is “We simply want people 9.1 and in Construction 2.3. to be aware of how dangerous Looking at 2016 there has been fishing is and the human cost to date 1 death for every 910 that is paid for the fish we take fishermen. for granted. These figures speak for “Despite this shocking figure themselves. We witness first- there is very little coverage in hand the pain and the trauma. the media. News is reported We would like the deaths and in a small way but there is no injuries to our fishermen to be bringing together of the facts to The Fishermen’s Mission performed a Blessing of the Fleet ceremony at given the profile that informs reveal the full story. the Puffin Festival the public of the high price of “It is rare for us to speak fishing and the human costs up in this way but such are our for the thousands of families those, many have never been involved.” concerns that we feel morally around the UK coastline found and brought home. You can find out more about bound to voice our fears”. who, over the years, have lost For these families it means the Fishermen’s mission at: The mission are concerned someone to the sea and, of years of standing still and a life www.fishermensmission.org.uk 16 ~ The Ambler Advice for struggling authors hen it comes to unpublished, always working on the same project then gets more submissions than they know what Wstruggling writers, there are two types. you’re not writing, you’re editing. to do with. And just because they’re in the There are those who finish a novel, rewrite If you’re struggling to make any progress, book, doesn’t make them better than any it when it’s rejected, and then repeat this take baby steps. There’s no need to go all other agent out there. In most cases the process for many years. Then there are those out. If you can’t move from short stories to agent is just the bridge between you and the who write a book, collect rejection slips, and novels, write a novella. If you’re struggling publisher, and if your work is good enough, then give up and write another. to get noticed by an agent, try freelancing. any agent will be able to secure a lucrative If you’re in the first category and you’ve Because if you can prove that you are deal. been writing for more than a few years, professional and prolific, an agent will be less Just remember that a reputable agent will you’re wasting your time. Even the best inclined to ignore your query. never charge you a fee and should have some writers were not good enough when they And don’t rely too much on the list of experience in publishing. Because if they first started, but they improved by writing agents in the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook. don’t, then it doesn’t matter if they are legit more books, trying new styles. You won’t You’re not the only author going through or not, because they won’t have the contacts improve as a writer if you stick with the that list and ticking them off. Thousands of and the knowledge they need to get you a same book and just keep making changes. others do the same thing every day, which deal. You improve by writing more, and if you’re means each and every one of those agents David Jester

but their engagement with the subject JCSC happenings and thought-provoking questions have he students in JCSCs community shown their dedication to the award. Twriting group (funded by our Arts Finally our Year 13 students left Council Bid) read the first draft of their school on May 27, returning for play at the Puffin Festival. This was a script revision and their A level examinations. in hand reading followed by a Q&A session They are all planning their next step to take feedback. The play is based on the but as a final farewell we are holding a stories they have gathered from meeting Presentation Reception in school and members of the local community and some every student in Year 13 will be given a work with the local history society. It’s book, specifically selected by a member called ‘The New Curiosity Shop’ of teaching staff, and inscribed by them Good news stories from students: Performing ‘The New Curiosity Shop’ at the Puffin Festival. with a message of good luck. The Duke of Edinburgh students in Photo by Andrew Mounsey Photography The staff really enjoy watching the Years 9 and 10 have started their expeditions Additionally some of the Y10 DofE young people grow from children into and already have experienced one overnight students have recently completed a 12 week adults and it is always bitter sweet to see camp. They all did very well, especially as for course in Criminology and have stayed them leave. many of them it was their first time under behind for an hour every Monday night to They would like to thank the local canvas and waking up with ice on the tent fulfil the ‘skill’ element of the award. They businesses and individuals in the area who was a real test of endurance! have been made to do a lot of work for it have sponsored the purchase of the books. REPORTS FROM OUR Because we can orthumberland County Council’s revenue funding from County Councillors Ncentral government will reduce by 84% over the period 2010 t a recent Town Council meeting a new mayor was elected, – 2020. That means a shift towards higher council tax. It also ACouncillor Jane Dargue is to hold the post for at least the next means working in new ways to defend services we all cherish. Parish year but I can’t let the occasion go past without remarking about how and Town Councils will play a much bigger role in providing local much difference our departing Mayor, Craig Weir, made to the recent services. I am delighted that Amble Town Council is funding a undoubted success story of Amble. Now Craig would be the first worker who will be based in Amble. This partnership agreement person to say that it takes a team to do things properly and that he has with the County Council is being copied all over Northumberland. had excellent help over the last few years, but a team is only as good as In recent years, despite the cuts, there have been significant its leader and Craig has been a truly remarkable Mayor. The town has improvements in play facilities, at the Welfare and Paddlers Park changed more in the last four years than it did in the previous 14 and thanks to local councils and the Development Trust. although there are still some issues that some individuals may have, Community groups have played an important part – Pride in I think no one can disagree that the town as a whole has made great Amble and the volunteers working at the Town Square for example. strides forward during his time of office. Well done Craig! We can be proud of that and should offer support however we In my last report I mentioned the dog waste issue and said that can. it was an ongoing problem, I see that the Harbour Commissionaires One way we can help is by challenging, and reporting, have taken steps to try to prevent this on their land and although it is unacceptable behaviour. There is no excuse for wanton vandalism. regrettable that they have issued a no dogs ruling on the Little Shore, I was told recently that a young girl destroyed a tree on one of our perhaps it is understandable. new estates. When asked why she said “because I can…” The Gloster Hill planning application rumbles on and has been That is sad. I have raised this episode with the County Council delayed at least until June. and I hope that by working in partnership we can show that kind of For information, you may wonder what the newly cut areas of behaviour will be challenged. Our community is stronger and better grass on the verge between Warkworth and Amble are for,well they than this. I hope new technology can be used where appropriate to have been cut and adopted by the local Rotary club with financial help replace CCTV. The biggest challenge is to change attitudes and to from various bodies including Warkworth P.C. and Amble T.C. in time build on everything that is good in Amble… because we can. they will become wild flower areas that should enhance the area for us all. I applaud the initiative! [email protected] Jeff Watson available on 07802385367 Telephone: 01665 711938 And by email [email protected] The Ambler ~ 17 Wellwood Arms competes in Channel 4’s Four in a Bed Hauxley ongratulations voted best. Cto Julian Sadly Parish Tagger and Jan they were Latimer of The voted last, Council Wellwood Arms, and Julian Parking information who featured in the remarked Hauxley Parish Council has received many recent Channel 4 TV series Four In a Bed. that much game playing had been communications relating to parking issues in both The pair competed against three other employed by the other couples, but they Low and High Hauxley. It is becoming a major couples who run B&Bs to see who was had enjoyed taking part. problem for residents and causing a great deal of disruption for some. In an effort to alleviate these problems we Mysterious sump holes not caused by mine would respectfully request the following: Residents are kindly asked to make use of where workings say coal authority there is provision at their own properties for parking of vehicles. Residents and visitors to Low and High Hauxley are reminded not to park on footpaths. The footpath is provided primarily for use by pedestrians of all ages and abilities and access is needed at all times to all properties by emergency services, fire brigade, ambulances, couriers, Royal Mail, utility companies and builder’s merchants. Residents and visitors to Hauxley are kindly asked not to park cars that prevent access to garages and gardens or create an obstruction in any way. Visitors to Low Hauxley are also reminded that there is a free car park at Low Hauxley within short distance from the village and the beach.

We appreciate your support. Hauxley Parish Council series of sump holes which appeared However, we are continuing to use our Hauxley Parish Councillor details. Aalong Druridge Bay beaches at the expertise to work with Northumberland beginning of May, were not caused by County Council to determine its cause.” Iwan Thomas: underground mine workings, according to Graham Mitcheson, Country Parks and 10 The Fairway, High Hauxley, NE65 0JW the Coal Authority. Site Officer at Druridge Bay Country Park Telephone: 01665 712481 Reports of quicksand and a bubbling told The Ambler: “The cause seems to be [email protected] hole at Togston Carrs (see photo above) an unnaturally high water table, forcing were widely posted on social media. water up through fault lines in the bedrock Ken Graham: A spokesperson for the Coal in several areas along the coast.” 22 Hauxley Links, Low Hauxley NE65 0JR Authority said: “In May, we received a “This appears to be fresh water and Telephone: 01665 712143 report of a ‘sinkhole’ on the beach at Low not contaminated by mine water,” he said. Email: [email protected] Hauxley. Our initial site visit and desktop “The sump holes remain although they investigations have not shown that this appear to have reduced in size and depth.” Rita Callender is related to coal mining subsidence. Warning signs remain in place. 16 Hauxley Links, Low Hauxley, NE65 0JR Telephone: 07730307594 Email: [email protected] Calling all marine detectives ur UK seas are home to several species then, working together as a team, they will John Lightfoot, Oof cetaceans, the group of marine become part of a network that will record Glendale House, Radcliffe, NE650JF creatures which includes whales, dolphins sightings of various species of dolphin and Tel:- 01665712838 and porpoises and if anybody has ever whales across the ’Big Watch Weekend’ and Email – [email protected] fancied becoming a marine detective, here it’s all absolutely free! is the chance to do so! July is usually one of the best months Wendy Appleby Northumberland Wildlife Trust, in to see a range of marine mammals off the Stable Manor High Hauxley association with other local conservation North coastline. Tel - 01665 712743 charities ORCA, Sea Watch Foundation, There will be many viewing spots along Email: [email protected] MARINELife and the North Sea Wildlife the coastline with experienced volunteers Trusts, is calling on members of the public on hand. Dave Cook to join it in a weekend of whale and Anybody interested in getting involved 5 Hauxley Links, Low Hauxley, NE65 0JR dolphin spotting this July as part of its Big in Big Watch Weekend, absolutely free Tel - 07706418479 Watch Weekend, on Saturday 30 & Sunday of charge should email: aurelie.bohan@ Email - [email protected] 31 July. northwt.org.uk or telephone: (0191) At a two day training event held at 2846884 to secure their place on one of Parish Clerk: Vicki Smith the beginning of July, volunteers will the training sessions to be held at the Great c/o 11 Acklington Road, Amble, NE650NF learn how to spot, and identify, different North Museum: Hancock on Monday 11 Telephone: 07875445495 whales and dolphins around the North Sea July, 6.30pm - 8.00pm and Tuesday 19 Email: [email protected] coastline - all that is required is your time; July, 6.30pm - 8.00pm. 18 ~ The Ambler TRUSTLife news from Amble Development Trust elcome to Trust Life after another Council, whose operatives failed to make an New flats Wrelatively successful Puffin Festival. appearance to empty overflowing bins and Work on the housing above Pride of The event started well with a lovely sunny open up the toilets. Northumbria is progressing and should be Saturday, but unfortunately the weather Amble Town Council have taken on a complete in July. Applications and qualifying changed to the point where we had to seasonal worker who is supposed to carry criteria are available from the Trust office for cancel the craft stall for Tuesday, due to high out additional duties to those carried out anyone interested in renting one of the flats. winds. However while some activities were by NCC, which in theory, should mean the The Harbour Village will be hosting outdoors, they were possibly for the more town is very clean and tidy, but in truth, he an event on 3rd July to celebrate 81 years hardy, with walks and water based activities. ended up doing the tasks which should have since the Mauretania passed Amble and Others were held indoors, so were able to go been done by NCC. endowed us with the name of the ‘kindliest’ ahead despite the wind and rain (and feeling It really isn’t acceptable, as these are port. While this has been changed slightly more like winter than summer). statutory duties that have to be carried out to the friendliest port, it is still something to Bart Rippon our intrepid volunteer from and are already paid for to NCC through celebrate. So to mark the date we are asking Australia has been out and about taking council tax and business rates. So the next our community to carry out random acts photos and doing talks and walks, notably time you feel a complaint coming on, do it of kindness - and you never know, you may one on the hostelries of Amble - current and on the County Council website. well be rewarded with an act yourself, and of lost, which was well attended but no liquid If we are to market Northumberland as a course come along and be entertained. refreshments were consumed; well very little tourist destination, we have to get the basics The Seafood Centre now has hubs I’m told! right, and as a community surely we are operating at Moorhouse Farm and Blagdon, Following on from the royal visit, we entitled to litter bins emptied. so sales are picking up and word is spreading have received a lovely letter of thanks for In the last Trust Life I complained about about the range of fabulous fresh fish our the warm welcome offered to HRH by the litter lying around the streets, this complaint fishermen land along our coastline. Amble community. is different; good people have tried to put And finally everything is in place to rubbish in receptacles, but if they are already make the one way system official. That’s Litter full and overflowing, or birds decide chips one problem sorted, hopefully we can make Once again Amble can report another are better than worms (!) everything ends up further progress on parking. busy bank holiday, but what a shame to on the ground blowing everywhere, which of That’s it for now, enjoy the summer. be let down by Northumberland County course makes it even harder to collect. Julia and all Trust staff. Gladys celebrates 102 and a new great grandchild any congratulations Gladys cut her cake and the buffet was Mto Gladys Steele, who opened. Guests enjoyed a glass of wine, celebrated her 102nd birthday while Gladys opted for a cup of tea. at the end of April with a lovely The celebrations continued with party - and news of a new some exciting news for Gladys. addition to the family. “While the party was going on “Amble Mayor Craig Weir there was a phone call to say Gladys and his wife Maggie attended was a great grandmother again. A great the party and he presented grandson had just been born, which Gladys with a card, chocolates made her birthday extra special,” said and flowers. Jodie. “We had a singer who was Gladys now has four great brilliant, the room was full of grandchildren: twin girls, Larna and staff, residents and Gladys’s Zoe who live in Warkworth, and two family and friends. We all had half Japanese great grandsons, Jinne such a good day,” said Dolphin and new baby Nukuto, who live in View’s Personal Activities London. Leader Jodie Taylor. Gladys said “It’s marvellous to be a After the entertainment Gladys pictured with her son Geoff, and her cake. great grandmother again”

The Ambler ~ 19 Amble Town Meetings 6pm unless stated otherwise Town: 14th July; 11th August; 8th Sept at 6p.m. Amenities: 28th July, 25th August at 6p.m. COUNCIL

MAURETANIA DAY CIVIC REGALIA The present Mayoral Chain is unique in that Council’s ‘Act of Kindness’ on Wednesday 6th July: we invite you all to it was purchased by public subscription. Faces come along to the office, on the top floor of Fourways Two, for a free coffee or tea of the links are inscribed with the name of the and a scone or cake. Some Councillors will be there between 10am and noon. We Mayors since 1974 when Amble Town Council look forward to meeting lots of people and discussing your ideas of how you see was formed. Each one was individually bought Amble developing in the future. and the purchaser’s name engraved on the reverse side. Every purchaser could write about themselves, LITTER their family or group in the accompanying Litter, litter everywhere and not a bin in sight! Only in Amble’s case there Commemorative book so that those in the future were plenty of bins - all full to overflowing! That was the scene last Bank Holiday week- could look back on this small part of the town’s end. We shared your concerns especially after holding discussions about previous times history. The regalia is worn on civic occasions to and being assured by NCC that operatives would be working. However even with plans show everyone how important our town is to us all. in place and the best of intentions, we were left with the mess. When the current year’s name is added, there We have employed a person to work over the weekend to enhance the NCC service, will only be room for one more, so the council which currently only covers morning toilet opening and cleaning and emptying of the has priced new links. It would be wonderful if the litter bins on Queen Street and Leazes Street. Should we remove bins and make people community bond could be kept, with these again take rubbish home? That was not successful last time! being purchased by public subscription at £180 Where there is a specific litter problem we hope NCC will address this with any per link to include inscribing the purchaser details. businesses involved. We will keep trying to alleviate the problem. Meanwhile, everyone There is only room for seven links which will be can help by taking their litter home. offered on a first come basis. There are many occasions to which the Mayor GARDEN & COMMUNITY AWARDS EAST WARD: is invited to represent the town. Sometimes he/she During June, nominations are accepted for the Robert Arckless, is not available so the Deputy Mayor takes their above to be judged in early July. We are fortunate to 37 Anne Crescent, place. Unfortunately we have no civic regalia for usually have a representative from Alnwick Gardens to Amble NE65 0QZ Tel: 01665 711938 the Deputy Mayor so other attendees are unaware judge our gardens. The high standard of our local gar- that Amble is being represented. We have therefore deners is always commented on. The Allotment Holders Helen Lewis, priced a simple town crest pendant on a ribbon Society Committee decide the winners of the Allotments 5 Meadowburn, for the Deputy Mayor costing around £500. We and also the Most Improved. This year’s new award for Amble NE65 0PH are inviting public subscriptions of £50 towards an individual or group who shows commitment to help- Tel: 07751 229 739 this. While there are no links to inscribe, there ing our community will be judged by a panel of three Craig Weir 76 Priory Park, would be the opportunity to complete a page in the councillors. Amble NE65 0HY Commemorative book. If you are interested, please When you receive this, there may still be a time left to Tel: 01665 712342 contact the Clerk as soon as possible. put forward your nominations: details on the council WEST WARD: website. The Awards night will be held mid-July when Ian Hinson, Councillors Corner those shortlisted will be invited to attend for refresh- 11 Eastgarth Avenue, ments and the presentations. In May I had the privilege to be elected as Amble. NE65 0LW Tel: 01665 710583 Mayor. One of my first duties has been to MEMORIES OF AMBLE welcome a new face to the council, Cllr Martin Saturday 2nd July- Parish Hall, Dovecote Street- Jeff Watson Horn. I was asked recently: ‘So what does the Thimbles, 60 Robsons Way 11am – 3.30pm.: As part of the Centenary Commemora- Mayor of Amble do?’ Amble NE65 0GA tions of WW1, an exhibition will be held. We have widened There is no short answer to this question. Tel 07802 385367 My first weeks have seen me presenting school- the scope to not only commemorate those who took part in Katrina Cassidy, leavers with awards and in contrast, trundling the Battles of the Somme but also to showcase the Amble of that time and some of the changes and development since. 18 The Close, Amble. around the town on a rainy evening picking up NE65 0HZ litter ahead of the Puffin Festival. As well as the research which went into the publication In between this, a multitude of tasks of ‘In Memory of the Fallen’ and a showcase of CENTRAL WARD: including day to day matters; overseeing memorabilia including medals, there will be photographs Kate Morrison, responsibilitiese for such as cemeteries and presented by Amble Social History Group; memories of 3 Island View, Amble NE65 0SE allotments, parking issues, town events, Amble’s great Footballing Teams; the history of Coquet Tel: 01665 711191 planning – the list goes on. Shorebase Trust; work done by Amble’s Army Cadet Force. One thing I do know is that I have had an We hope to have input from the Royal National Lifeboat Jane Dargue (Chair/Mayor) exemplary role model in our out-going Mayor Institution and the Coastguards. We are still talking 10 Sylvia’s Close, and I will work hard to continue this high to others including JCSC who, during Puffin Festival, Amble NE65 0GB standard for a town that I am incredibly proud produced a wonderful working draft of their script for Tel: 07795360513 the play they are producing from their conversations with of. Martin Horn residents in the town. Pop in for a cuppa and a browse Cllr Jane Dargue 22 Mariners View around - such a variety that there’s something for all. Amble NE65 0JH Tel: 01665 712836 TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, FOURWAYS 2, AMBLE. NE65 0DT Tel: 01665 714 695 www.amble.gov.uk Email [email protected] Twitter: @AmbleTC Facebook: www.facebook.com/AmbleTownCouncil Office hours: 10-11.30a.m. & 1.30-3p.m. Monday to Friday Elaine Brown Town Clerk Minutes available to view in Office or online 20 ~ The Ambler WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SOCIETIES Commemorating the Battle of the Somme Pin Cushion n August 1914 hundreds of Newcastle The Riders Branch of the Workshops Imen from Warkworth, Amble For this centenary year Royal British Legion will and Acklington districts aged the Royal British Legion is be holding an all-night vigil Wed 6 July Improvers Crochet between 18 and 41 responded holding special commemoration in Amble Town Square to Bear 6-8pm £15 to Kitchener’s call to arms at the ceremonies. There will be an all- commemorate all the soldiers www.mad-hattie.co.uk/ outset of the Great War. For these day vigil in Newcastle Cathedral from the area. They will start news/crochet-for-improvers- men, and their families from our on Friday, 1 July 2016 starting with a service of dedication at amigurumi-bear close knit communities, their lives at 7.28am (the time the battle 7.15am on Friday, 1 July which Sat July 23 Make an apron would never be the same. commenced) with a large screen will see a candle lit at 7.28am. (using a paper pattern for the The Pals Battalions of the film of the ‘Battle of the Somme’ This will burn until 11am on first time) 10am – 4pm £40 Tyneside Irish and Tyneside showing events as they happened. Saturday 2 July concluding Scottish Regiments of the On Saturday, 2 July 2016 at with a remembrance service and Northumberland Fusiliers were 2pm there will be a Somme the extinguishing of the flame Amble photo decimated on the first day of commemoration ceremony at the following a minute’s silence. group their first major engagement at Renwick War Memorial in the The public are invited to the Battle of the Somme on 1 Haymarket, Newcastle. attend all these events and can f you are interested in July 1916. purchase candles or crosses Iphotography, getting out and 20,000 soldiers of the British Locally to pay their own respects. enjoy taking photographs, why commonwealth were killed on Warkworth & Amble District All proceeds raised will go to not join us? Come along and this day of the battle alone with RBL Branch will be holding a supporting the Royal British share a morning. Enjoy a free 38,230 recorded as wounded or short commemoration service at Legion Poppy Appeal. visit, coffee and biscuit. missing. the War Memorial at 11am on We have a varied programme The Thiepval Memorial at the Friday 1 July and lay a wreath. Branch Meetings with interesting speakers, club Somme, France lists the names of Saturday 2 July: a special ‘Battle Next branch meeting is competitions and activities. soldiers with no known grave. It of the Somme’ exhibition to Wednesday, 7 Sept 2016 at 7pm. We meet throughout the year now has a purpose built museum commemorate the lives of Speaker June Watson. Talk: The excluding August on Friday to record the personal data of soldiers from Warkworth and Sanderson Family of Eastfield mornings 9-30 am-12 noon, in each soldier who is named on the Acklington at Warkworth War Hall, Warkworth (who lost two Trinity Church Hall Amble. memorial. Memorial Hall, 10am -5pm. sons in WW1). Dianne Mckenna Secretary. The Countess of Wessex’s visit and Paddlers Park funday The Ambler was delighted to receive several very well written reports on the Countess of Wessex’s visit to Amble, from pupils in Year 4 at Amble First School. Well done to everybody. Here’s is an extract from Lyla Smith’s report. n Wednesday 20th of April everybody at Amble first OSchool went down to the Paddlers. We left at 10:30 to get there in time. When we got there we were very early so everybody was sunbathing. It was a very hot day with no clouds at all. Our teacher (Mrs Forsey) said that we could go and check out the Paddlers so off we went. The water was amazing. You could open little water gates, water pumps and watch it go down the hill into the drain. There was also a table tennis set with three spare balls. You could play two vs two. Puffins were painted on the ground, along with hop scotch, stars, shapes and swirly lines. If you climbed to the top of one of the rocks you could see the lovely blue sea with white bubbles everywhere. Then Youngsters enjoying the new equipment at the Paddlers Park funday at the end of April. See also Artograffi’s report, centre pages. I saw Coquet Island! Mrs Brown gave out flags to wave at Sophie the Countess of Wessex, the Duchess of Northumberland and the Mayor of Amble. There was a big crowd near the water pump so I went to check it out. It was Sophie, the Countess of Wessex! She was wearing a lovely white skirt and jacket with silver buttons. Her beautiful golden hair was all clipped up. Mrs Forsey told us all to go up on the grassy hill to wave our flags. It was a steep hill which meant a steep walk. It felt like we were walking up Mount Everest! Everybody was waving and cheering to all of the important people. In the future I think the Paddlers Park is going to be extraordinary! By Lyla Smith, Year 4, Amble First School The Ambler ~ 21 WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SOCIETIES Acts of kindliness on Mauretania Day Lifeboat events Sunday 3 July nce again it is that time of year Can you spare a few hours to Amble Harbour Village will be celebrating the title ‘The Owhen ALF is asking for your help. help with a stall on Harbour Day? If Kindliest Port’, given to Amble in 1935 by the ‘Finest Ship’, Harbour Day will be held on August so, please contact Katrina on 07824 RMS Mauretania, on her last voyage. We’ll be giving away 28 ( Bank Holiday Sunday). 701011 or Eleanor on 01665 713479. a £5 Harbour Village Voucher every hour from 10am until We need donations of Books, Our next Coffee Mornings will 3pm. We have a £20 Harbour Village voucher to award a deserving person! Nominate them by 5pm on Fri 1 July and Toys, Bric-a-Brac, Tombola Prizes (No be Sunday July 17 between 10am and tell us what they’ve done. We’ll announce the winner on clothes) to sell on the day. Please hand 1pm Sunday 3rd July at 12 noon. in any donations to Premier Stores. Harbour Day Sunday August 28 10am – pods and seafood centre open. Can you bake? If you feel you are between 10am and 3.30pm 11am – 12pm Dancing for Charity giving a 1 hour modern able to bake cakes/ scones/ biscuits it Sunday September 18 between swing jive dance demonstration would be greatly appreciated. 10am and 1pm 12pm – 12.40pm & 2pm - 2.40pm Jayess Newbiggin Brass Please hand these in to the Lifeboat Once again our sincere thanks for Band 40 min performance Station on Saturday August 27, where your support – we wouldn’t be where 3pm St. Cuthberts Parish Church cafe church. Informal worship and a cup of coffee. members of the ALF Committee will we are without it. 4pm - Close be busy preparing for Sunday. Amble Lifeboat Fundraisers See article on page 3 Story tent at Warkworth Show Bowls Open Triples competition would like to encourage entries to form: write a short poem including the I my various writing classes and to words: 'I like' attract participants to perform their Class 580 - write a piece of not more work. There will be a storytelling chair than 200 words describing 'My Top and some costumed performers too! Ten - and why' All writing entries must be submitted Adult classes: with an entry form by Saturday 13th Class 328 - a poem of not more than August. They can be handed in at The 20 lines entitled: 'Sea, sand & sky' Greenhouse in Warkworth. Class 329 - using no more than 200 Entry forms are in the show schedule, words, present a picture describing out now, or online at somewhere which is special to you www.warkworthshow.co.uk Junior classes: Contact Beryl Holmes on book. Saturday 4 June saw the 2016 Amble Bowling Club Classes 574-579 school years 1 to 6th [email protected] or 01665 712077 open triples competition. Pictured above are the winners, John Calder, Margaret Calder and Terry Wilson with the sponsors, trophy Druridge Bay 10k donator and president of the club after a very enjoyable and successful day. George Dixon Amble Bowling Club

Joy of Jive lasses of Modern Jive are continuing at 7.30 pm Cin Felton Village Hall beginning on Thursday 9th June. Entrance fee of £5. They will continue every other Thursday evening from then on. More events to be announced in future so watch their Facebook page joyof jive or email ongratulations to Carl Taylor, Catriona Macdonald and Morpeth Harriers at this [email protected] for details Cyear’s Druridge Bay 10K. Male and overall winner: Carl Taylor; Female winner: Beginners are welcome and partners are not Catriona Macdonald; Men’s team winner: Morpeth Harriers; Ladies team winner: necessary. This is a social and warm crowd who would Morpeth Harriers. Under 16 male: Samuel Machete; Under 16 female: Hayley be delighted to see you. Dobinson; Vet male: Philip Hemsley; Vet female: Lynne Cornell. Warkworth Golf Club n important milestone for superstructure were inserted. the last 128. In the Daily Mail Field Days, notably from Alastair Athe Killie Bridge on 18th The wood for the structure has Foursomes the Club pair of Mel MacKay at Magdalene Fields and May with the pouring of the been cut and the next phase Patterson and Garry Scott has Dave Fish at Dunstanburgh. concrete for the foundations. A will be the construction of the progressed to round four where Entries are still being taken team of volunteers led by Club A-frame legs. they have been drawn against for the Mixed Open in June and Chairman John Gray and green At the time of writing the Beamish Park. the Seniors Open in September. keepers Alan Dalby and Ian Club’s teams are going well. In The match play team is still Forms available from the Club Bruce toiled manfully to ensure the Mail on Sunday Classic, from involved in the Glendale Cup website www.warkworthclub. the four loads went in and the an original entry of over 2,000 and there have been some good co.uk or the Club entry on Golf securing bolts for the bridge clubs, Warkworth is down to performances in the Saturday Empire. 22 ~ The Ambler WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SOCIETIES Local lad wins Scottish Open Windsurfing Championship young member of Amble's Shorebase Trust sailed on Young Sophie Dryden ACoquet Shoresbase Trust Raceboards, Pip Heywood, did the Coquet Shorebase Windsurfing Club won the Tom Dryden and headcoach Ali Windsurfers proud with her very Scottish Open Windsurfing Claydon, taking first, third and first race in the RYA Team 15 Championship at Largs at fourth places. event (aged 15 and under). the beginning of June. Philip At Druridge Bay Country The team 15 results were - Heywood, aged 14, from Park new members have been 1st Pugney Pirates, 2nd Kielder Rothbury beat off all other taking to the water and enjoying Kestrels, 3rd North Lincs competitors, on his new-to-him this sport for the first time, Invaders, 4th Derwent Devils Raceboard and a 9.5m rig, to under coach Gus Takiguchi's and 5th Coquet Crushers. take the title. This was his first instruction. A warm welcome awaits time in the event. Veteran, Dave Dobson, took anyone (all ages and abilities) The two day event started first place at NEWS’s third event wanting to take up windsurfing, slowly with very little wind, of the season on Kielder Water, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, but it picked up by the time the with good wind and open water. powerboat courses, or have first race had begun. Changes Second was Gus Takiguch, 3rd fun raft building, all at Coquet of wind direction on the second Tom Dryden,.4th Pip Heywood, Shorebase Trust. Ring Coquet Pip Heywood day, kept the race officer busy, 5th Thomas Sambrook, 6th Ali Shorebase Trust for details of making adjustments and laying Claydon, 7th Bruce Scott, 8th sessions and instruction. www.coquetshorebase.org.uk. new courses. Neil Raistrick, 9th Jim Scullion Tel: 01665 710367l Ask us about activities accessible Three members of Coquet and 10th Susan Benbow. 01665 710367 or see to people with disabilities.

Tiny Woods Academy football tournament and summer camps First School and Red Row host the event! First School all accepted the Academy’s invitation to take Tiny Woods Academy Summer part in the first Puffin Festival Schedule 2016 Tournament. Organiser and FA Licensed Friday 10 June: Euro 2016 Day coach Josh Rutherford said Friday 1 July: Tiny Woods ‘Well done to all the children Academy Birthday Tournament who participated. They had lots Friday 8 July: Tiny Woods of fun and the standard of the Academy Charity Match football was brilliant’. Monday 25 July to Friday 29 Victory Shield winners were July: Summer Camp 1 Red Row First School beating Amble Links First School Monday 8 August to Friday 12 in the entertaining final and August:Summer Camp 2 Broomhill First School retained the Champions Shield again by Monday 22 August to Friday 26 beating Amble First School in a August: Summer Camp 3 iny Woods Academy hosted a huge success once again by thrilling final. Friday 2 September: Tiny Ta football tournament children and parents. We would like to thank Woods Academy Goalkeeping at Amble Welfare as part of Amble Links First School, Amble Town Council and Masterclass the Amble Puffin Festival Amble First School, Warkworth Amble Development Trust for Celebrations – and it was hailed C of E First School, Broomhill their support and backing to Josh Rutherford

Calisto

County Councillor Robert Arckless will be holding surgeries on will be holding Surgeries on Saturdays 25 June & 30 July Friday Friday 25th July from 10am-11am in Amble Library at 6pm - 6.45pm in Hauxley Village Hall and and Friday 29 July Saturday Saturday 26th July at 6pm - 6.45pm in Hauxley Village Hall from 10am - 11am in Amble Library All Constituents Welcome All Constituents Welcome

The Ambler ~ 23 Puffin Festival fun

Above l -r: Sampling local chef’s cookery demonstration; dancing at the Colony. Below left: Bestselling author Jenny Colgan and her family. The puffin festival committee replaced Jenny’s daughter’s lost toy puffin, so Jenny kindly gave a talk on her children’s book character Neil the Puffin.

Above right: Amble’s Women’s Workshop group at their funday. Below l-r: Amble Coastal Rowing club, Colony headliners Come Together, Tommy Noddy attempts the Kick Start obstacle course

Below l-r: Amble Women’s Institute members, lots of fun at the Colony music festival. More photos on p1, 11, 14 and www.theambler.co.uk Photos by Bart Rippon, Andrew Mounsey Photography Photos by Bart Rippon, Anna Williams and