A Message from Town Mayor Cllr Fraser Tinsley & the members of the Greater Willington Town Council Finally the weather is what we can to improve April will be a huge day getting warmer and this area as a place to for the Town and we are we can look forward live. We are also working on other big to summer and embarking on a number events in the town later another year where of initiatives to build our this year. More details to we have a lot going profile and develop a follow… on in Greater sense of pride in an area Willington. that has an amazing I hope you enjoy this Best wishes heritage and with work, newsletter, which gives We are concentrating on has potential for a bright you a flavour or what is Cllr Fraser Tinsley issues that we know future. going on in our matter to you including community. If you want Greater Willington improving the Main Street, The installation of the any further information Town Mayor and addressing anti-social Capt. George Burdon please contact the Town behaviour, improving road McKean VC MM MC Council office on the County Councillor for safety, litter and doing memorial stone on 28 High Street or me direct. Willington and Hunwick

Installation of Capt. George Burdon McKean VC MM MC Memorial Stone in Willington 28 April 2018 10.40 am Gather at the War Memorial 10.45 am Road Closure 11.00 am Civic Service 11.15 am Parade to the Library 11.30 am Commemoration for the VC Stone 12.15 pm WW1 Experience at The Open Door Church Inside this Issue

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! Community Newsletter Issue 12 67 High Street, Willington, Co Durham. DL15 0PF Serving Our Community t: 01388 417725 e: [email protected] w: www.gwtc.co.uk Montreal Regiment (RMR) and 28 April 1918. McKean who has accepted our was leading a party of invitation to attend the scouts against a German event and is traveling from trench that was being . Everybody is staunchly defended by welcome - so please do troops using rifles and hand come out and make this a grenades. When his men very special day in the hesitated, he ran forward history of our town. alone and threw himself head first into the trench, About Capt. George killing two of the enemy Burdon McKean with his revolver. Inspired VC MM MC by Lieutenant McKean’s George Burdon McKean action, his men advanced was born in Willington, and swept the German England on 4 July 1888. defenders aside, capturing Son of James McKean, both the trench and its remaining occupants. who was a furniture broker, and Jane Ann (nee He was one of only a Henderson). Orphaned at handful of people who a young age, he lived with received all three medals. his sister in Bishop ! Auckland where he In July 1919 McKean Work is nearing last for another 100 years. became an apprentice retired from the Canadian completion to provide a We have been awarded cabinetmaker with Messrs Army with rank of Captain memorial to Capt. George Heritage Lottery Funding T Thompson, Newgate and he settled in Brighton Burdon McKean VC MM and this together with Street. where he married Councillor Neighbourhood Constance Hilton. He had MC. George was born in He emigrated to Canada Budgets and Town Council one daughter. Willington and went on to in 1902, settling in funding will make this become one of the most working on a McKean was a published happen. decorated men in British / cattle ranch and later on author. He wrote Scouting Empire forces history. Thrills, The Memoirs of The memorial includes the his brothers farm. When a Scout Officer in the We have been awarded a Victoria Cross the First World War broke Great War. commemorative stone by commemorative stone, a out, he was 5’ 6” tall and weighed only nine stone. the government to mark plaque about his story and In memory of McKean his He was rejected three 100 years since the action a major new art work. It Victoria Cross is stored at times but on 23 January in France took place for includes a maple leaf to the Canadian War 1915 he enlisted as a which George was represent Canada, poppies Museum, Ottawa, Ontario, private soldier in the awarded his Victoria Cross. to remember fallen British Canada. The Town Council has and Empire forces and blue Canadian Expeditionary been working with County cornflowers (the French Force. The Church Square of Councillors, other groups Cagnicourt, France was flower of remembrance). After completing his and individuals on a project renamed ‘La Place Du There will also be new flag training, Private McKean to provide a truly fitting George Burdon McKean’. poles to display British, arrived back in Britain in memorial for George, a son Canadian and French flags April 1916 and joined the A mountain in the Victoria of Willington who went on at the service. 14th Infantry Battalion Cross Ranges, Canada, is to fight in the Canadian (Royal Montreal Regiment) The main ceremony to named in his honour. Army, and which we should on the Western front in install the memorial will be truly proud. June 1916. His name is also present take place on 28th April on the memorial wall George Burdon McKean is 2018. We hope you will join In the course of his military located in Convocation Hall a hero in Canada. He has us at 10.40 am at the War service, he received the at the , a mountain named after Memorial to pay tribute to , and, after where he had enrolled on him in Alberta and the main local WW1 soldiers and he was commissioned as an arts course which was square in the town in then follow the parade from an officer, the Military interrupted by the outbreak France where the action the War Memorial to the Cross. of WW1. took place is named in his Library. honour. We are working Lieutenant McKean earned He survived the war but with local artist Graham We are delighted to host the Victoria Cross while was fatally wounded and Hopper and children from Lieutenant Colonel John serving with the 14th killed in a horrific accident Parkside Academy to Shone, Commanding Infantry Battalion near at a saw mill on 28 provide a landmark that will Officer of the Royal Gavrelle in France on 27 November 1926.

2 Victoria Cross citation for Lieutenant George Burdon McKean, London Gazette, 28 June 1918 “For most conspicuous underneath him, who was bravery and devotion to struggling violently. This duty during a raid on the very gallant action enabled enemy’s trenches. the position to be captured. Lt. McKean’s supply of Lt. McKean’s party, which bombs ran out at this time, was operating on the right and he sent back to our flank, was held up at a front line for a fresh supply. block in the communication Whilst waiting for them he trench by most intense fire engaged the enemy single- from hand grenades and handed. machine guns. This block, which was too close to our When the bombs arrived, trenches to have been he fearlessly rushed the engaged by the preliminary second block, killing two bombardment, was well of the enemy, capturing Remembrance Sunday protected by wire and four others and drove the Remembrance Sunday is Aycliffe and Brancepeth covered by a well protected remaining garrison, an important day for many Brass Band once again machine gun 30 yards including a hostile residents and one of the few provided the poignant behind it. Realising that if machine-gun section, into occasions where we have musical accompaniment. this block were not a dug-out. The dug-out, the opportunity to gather The Council supported the destroyed, the success of with its occupants and together as a town. Royal British Legion Wreath machine gun, was the whole operation might On Sunday 12th November distribution and collection destroyed. be marred, he ran into the 2017 the Town Council from the office. Our thanks are extended to Brian Pyle, open to the right flank of This officer’s splendid hosted the Remembrance the block, and with utter Honorary Poppy Organiser bravery and dash Sunday service at the War and Lillian Bennett who gave disregard of danger, leaper undoubtedly saved many Memorial and the Parade over the block head first on the poppy boxes to local lives, for had not this to St Stephens Church. collection points and schools. top of the enemy. Whilst position been captured, the The Service was led by lying on the ground on top We are delighted that whole of the raiding party Father David Spokes of one of the enemy, would have been exposed The Royal British Legion and our grateful thanks are another rushed at him with to dangerous enfilading fire have recognised Mrs Lillian fixed bayonet; Lt. McKean during the withdrawal. His extended to Amy Radley Bennett’s dedication towards shot him through the body leadership at all times has from the Army Cadets who helping with the Poppy and then shot the enemy been beyond praise.” performed the Master of Appeal fundraising over the Ceremonies Role and last twenty four years, by Councillor Danby who presenting her with a long announced the wreath service award. New Town Councillors layers. Well done Lillian. The Battles Over - A Nations Tribute On the 3rd August 1914, As part of the 100 years Britain’s Foreign Minister, Anniversary of the end of Sir Edwin Grey, was looking WW1 a chain of over a 1000 out of his office window. It was dusk and gas lights beacons will be lit throughout were being lit along London’s the , Mall, leading to Buckingham Channel Islands, Isle of Man Palace when he remarked and UK Overseas Territories to his friend, ‘The lamps are at 7pm on the 11th going out all over Europe; November 2018 – a century we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime’ Our after the guns fell silent. country was about to be The Willington Beacon on plunged into the darkness of the Dante Heap above the We were pleased to welcome Town Council. All members of the First World War and it town will be lit to symbolise three new Councillors to the the 2017/2021 Town Council would be four long years Town Council following the were elected unopposed. All before Britain and Europe the ‘light of hope’ that election on 4 May 2017. Town Councillors are unpaid would again experience the emerged from the dreadful Councillor Owen Woods, volunteers and we look light of peace. four year’s darkness of war. Councillor Alison Danby and forward to the challenges Councillor Dean Maynard facing the new incoming Ringing out for Peace registered to stand and Town Council and Greater In memory of the millions ring their bells on the 11th subsequently joined the Willington as a whole. that either died on the November 2018 at 7.05 pm existing team following the battlefield during dreadful joining the hundreds of other retirement of Councillor The new Council continues to conditions or returned home Churches who have agreed Etherington, Councillor be advised by our dedicated terribly wounded. The to recognise the bravery of Townsend and Councillor Todd. staff, Helen Cogdon, Town churches in our parish will be people from their own Thank you for all your work on Clerk and Emma Mennouni, taking part in the Ringing for communities, either at home behalf of our community. Community Services Officer Peace tribute. or in the armed forces; as whose help has been County Councillor Olwyn Gunn St Stephens and Our Lady part of the WW1 Anniversary has also recently joined the invaluable throughout the year and St Thomas Church will across the region. 3 Greater Willington Citizens Advice Outreach at Town Council Greater Willington Town Council @ The Market In 2017/18 the Town The Town Council meets the first Wednesday of each Council invested £7000 to month at 6.30 pm. There is provide a Citizens Advice a recess each August. Service from the council office on the High Street. Members of the public are welcome to observe the Further Town Council conduct of Council business. funding has been agreed Residents who wish to address to continue the service in the meeting may do so during 2018/19. Additional the Public Participation Agenda funding for the new Item. Please contact the Town introduction of the Clerk no later than 12 noon on Universal Credit provision ! the day of the meeting so that has been secured from the you can be added to the Area Action Partnership. Universal Credit Drop in five people using wifi Agenda to speak. (Mondays 10am – 1pm) enabled tablets Citizens Advice can (Wednesday 10am – 1pm) Dog Bags are still on sale to help with many issues One session of canines living in our parish at including, benefits, debt, generalist advice Drop In If you can’t get to the Town a discounted rate of 50 pence relationships, consumer (Tuesday 10am – 1pm) Council office you can a pack. Please continue to rights and housing. telephone The Advice Line support us in our efforts to One morning of assisted on 03444 111 444 Monday keep our parish clean and From December 2017 support for people making to Friday 10am until 4pm. combat irresponsible dog following the introduction Universal Credit Claims owners. of Universal Credit there this will be a pre booked Debt advice is available on will be one session of group sessions for up to 03000 32302000 Photocopying services are also available at 15 pence per side for black and white copies. Unfortunately due to security considerations we do not have public access to Fax or IT Willington Foodbank equipment and would The foodbank operates who hold the vouchers, needed and appreciated. encourage the use of the from the Open Door please contact them on These can be left at The Library facilities. Methodists Church, 0191 303 7559. Open Door Church. Lydia Street, Willington. Public meetings are organised It’s a sign of the times in Please help if you can. when necessary to listen to It is open on a Wednesday which we live, but many residents views. from 2.15pm to 4pm. of those using the foodbank Clients using the foodbank are working and are Laura Pidcock M.P held an require a referral note to dealing with issues related open surgery at the office on get food. These are to zero-hours contracts the 10th November 2017 available from doctors, and delays in benefit and 24th February 2018. schools, Job Centre Plus, payments etc. Citizens Advice County Durham etc. To find out Donations of food and Save Time more about the agencies toiletries are always Do It on line ! Report a bin not emptied or fly-tipping in your area……… etc.The best way to deal with it is by contacting Durham Council Tax Charges 2018/19 County Council on-line via Following the freeze in the Town The Town Council charge per year is their web site listed below. https://doitonline.durham.gov.uk Councils tax charge last year and this year’s drop in the local council tax Band A £38.13 Its quick and easy and you reduction scheme. Band B £44.49 can follow up issues using the Band C £50.84 reference number as they are The council proposed at its January addressed. Band D £57.20 meeting that there would be a increase Band E £69.91 in this year’s Town Council element of Band F £82.62 Council Tax. Band G £95.33 Band H £114.40 The increase will mean that the Band D charge is £57.20 per year, 2018/19. Band D charges for neighbouring This is £4.91 more than last year for parishes for comparison, are; Band D properties. Tow Law £72.00 Bishop Auckland £46.28 Most people in the parish live in a Spennymoor £213.91 Band A home. There are 2,274 properties Shildon £265.15 in Band A and 359 in Band D Chilton £213.91 ! 4 Keeping our Schools & Communities Safe from Speeding

Finishing touches are These measures are We are working with being put in place for proven to improve safety County Councillors to two new 20mph Zones for children which is our provide an additional in Willington. Working top priority. 20mph Zone on Hunwick with Durham County Lane next to Sunnybrow Part of the project will Primary. Council two 20mph be traffic calming Zones will be measures on Chester The works are The Sunnybrow introduced south of Drive which are being programmed to be in Commercial St and funded by the Town place by the end of 2018. at Our Lady and Council and County Heart St Thomas R.C Councillors Olwyn Gunn Primary School. and Fraser Tinsley. Defibrillator The Zones are intended The Friends of Sunnybrow to improve safety for have worked extremely hard children, parents and neighbouring residents. to raise £1200 to buy a defibrillator and cabinet. They The first covers the area south of Commercial St approached the Town Council as far as Sunnybrow.It to purchase the equipment and means that Parkside provide the additional funds. Academy, Willington Primary School and As the council was happy to St Stephens Primary provide the additional funds, School will all benefit the equipment is now outside from 20mph Zones outside of their premises, Sunnybrow School and available not to mention over for emergency first aid. The town 600 houses in Hall council will own and insure the Lane and the Armstrong Drive areas. equipment and restock the products as required. The School The second is located on will maintain and carry out the the High Street in the vicinity of Our Lady and safety inspections on behalf of St Thomas R.C Primary the council. School. In the hopefully unlikely event that you will be called on to use it telephone 999 and you will be given the code to open PWe klnaowy howg imrportaunt nundderta keInm in recpent rovAremoumry Fieelds n(beht ind the cabinet. play is to our children. years. the Burn Pub and Kitchen). The equipment has clear Following on the major Working with County diagrams on how to use it and improvements to Councillors Olwyn Gunn The main climbing frame once switched on will tell you playgrounds on the Town and Fraser Tinsley we will and slides need Green and at Sunnybrow be making improvements replacing.This will be what to do. The machine is that have been to the playground at happening shortly. very safe and will not shock a patient who is still conscious. Please make yourself familiar with where the defibrillator is COpehratiang frroimt nyext SIht is sotaffped b y 4U located on the outside of to the Post Office, this volunteers who are Sunnybrow School. is a locally run charity doing a great job for Other defibrillators are available shop supporting local children in the area. on the front of the Town Council good causes focusing They always welcome on children in the donations from you office in the High Street and in Willington Area. the public. Oakenshaw. 5 TPheA PoClice Tand MComemuenitieisn Togetsher (PACT) meetings are held in the Town Willington Cricket Club Council Office on the last Thursday of the month at 6pm. The meeting venue alternates with St Catherines Community Centre, Crook. The Willington meetings are planned for; 26th April 2018 28th June 2018 30th August 2018 25th October 2018 This is your opportunity to talk to local Police Officers and County Councillors about issues that concern you. The meetings help set police priorities and inform the Altogether Better Policing approach. Whats On at The Open Door Church Wesley Street, Willington. DL15 0AG Enquiries 01388 745460 Willington Disabled Club meet every Tuesday evening at 6.00 pm for Bingo, a cuppa and a chat. New members are always welcome and if you would like to find out more contact Jean Graham. Mother and Toddlers Club meets every Wednesday 9.00 -11.00 am For more information contact Katrina Stephenson Willington Cricket Club play Senior games take place during the at the Manor Road Cricket season on Saturdays and Sundays. Willington Luncheon Club meet every Ground (MRCG) in the North East Thursday at 12.00 – 1.30 pm to enjoy a There is a Friday night 20Twenty Premier League. freshly cooked meal. The food service competition during June and July provided by dedicated volunteers is There are 3 senior men’s teams, which is great fun and a good much appreciated by those who attend juniors at under 18, under 15s, under together with the opportunity to meet opportunity for a pint and crash old and new friends. 13s, under 11s and under 9s and a bang cricket. Transport is available via Age Concern. ladies team. Following last year’s success, this year All Stars Cricket Take in a game if you get the chance meets the last Friday Messy Church will be returning which is a great fun and support your local club. of the month, 3.30- 5.00pm introduction to cricket for children Check out the local press and Organised by Hope Ecumenical. New under 11s and parents. volunteers to help out would be welcome. www.nepremierleague.pitchero.com Homemakers Programme meets Call Darren on 0781 592 676. for fixtures. monthly on Tuesdays at 2.15pm in the lounge.Refreshments are available and outings and activities are planned. The Confident Community Programm e runs on Wednesdays in association Willingitlonl AiFnC gtonIn NAovem.bFer t.hCey . with County Durham Housing Group currently sits in famously beat Shildon 1-0 and the Foodbank. Division Two of the in the league cup with a Contact Katrina Stephenson for details. Northern League. goal from Connor Winter. They are having one Willo as they are Whats On of their best seasons for nicknamed, deserve your at Willington Library many years under the support, so please pop guidance of Anth Lee & round to Hall Lane and Willington Walkers meet every Friday at 10.00am Rob Lee and there is cheer the lads on. a feel-good vibe around The Knit and Knatter meet at the the club. Dean Maynard, Library every Friday and also at the Marketing Officer Groundsmen Shaun Cornerstone Office on the Industrial Tel:07806556660 Estate on a Tuesday and Paul Cooper are Take in a game if you get the chance. Check You can use all the library facilities online. working miracles on the Watching a match at the ! Simply log into the Durham County pitch and Chairman Hall Lane ground is out the local press, Council library system and register your Richard Trewman is grassroots football at its Bishop FM and library ticket number and surname. helping get the team finest and won’t break www.northernleague.org This will give you access to books, cds, back on the map. the bank. for fixtures. dvds, magazines and research materials. 6 Welcome to your 2018 Allotme Get the b nt News est from you letter Allotments r allotment! If you love your wellies then an Allotment Last Y Following an ear’s other succes Allotm the allotmen sful inspectio ent W t competition n on Thursda inners winners were y 20th July 2 Oakenshaw ; 017, 1st Prize Highly Plots 4 Commended 8 Mr Garden could be just the thing for you. Plots 45 & Mrs Hales & 46 Mr Plots & Mrs D Berr Park Top 43 & 44 y Ms Y Golding 1st Prize Pl Highly Comm ots 2 & 3 ended Mr J B Best New Plot 4 eard Plot Mr Plot J Fleming Springfie 11 M ld r K Dobinson 1st Prize High Plot ly Commende 18 B d Mr I Joyner est New Plot Plot 4 Mr J Blak 1st Plot 13 ey Prize winners Ms R Mu received a ch sgrove and Best New eque for £25. Plot winners Highly Comm received a ch ended eque for £20. A Insp ll allotment w ection inners will be Allo Date notified in wr tment Insp iting and invit ections will have their ed to photograph t take place receivin aken on g the award. T hursday 19 Please no th July 2018 te 50% of plo . cultivat ts must be Commen ed and maint cing at 9.45 stat ained as am at ed in the Rule Oakens s. haw, 10.45a Fail m at Park ure to do so, Top a will result in and 11.30 a dditional rent t Springfield being charge . following the d inspections. Keep Your If there self Up are any chan To Date ges to your c us so that ontact details we can keep , please coul c our records u d you inform alling into the p to date. Yo Town Counc u can do this to il office at 67 either by emma.menn High Street, W ouni@hotma illington, via il.co.uk or by te email lephone 01 388 417725.

Allotmen t Newsletter 67 Hig Sp h Street, Wil ring 2 t: 01 lington, Co D 018 388 417725 urham. DL1 e: gwtc@live 5 0PF .co.uk w: ww w.gwtc.co.uk

FAollolwlinog atnomther esucncestsf ulG inspaectriond one Thnursdiany 2g0th JuCly 2o017m, the palloetmetnit ctoimopetintion wWinnerisn wenre; ers Oakenshaw Springfield 1st Prize Plot 48 Mr & Mrs Hales 1st Prize Plot 18 Mr I Joyner Highly Commended Plots 45 & 46 Mr & Mrs Berry Highly Commended Plot 4 Mr J Blakey Plots 43 & 44 Ms Y Golding Best New Plot Plot 13 Ms R Musgrove Park Top 1st Prize Plots 2 & 3 Mr J Beard 1st Prize winners received a cheque for £25. Highly Commended Plot 4 Mr J Fleming Highly Commended and Best New Plot Best New Plot Plot 11 Mr K Dobinson winners received a cheque for £20.

Inspection Date Allotment Rents • By law we are only obliged to offer one garden per household ie Allotment Inspections will take place on All tenants should have received their enough to feed one household. Thursday 19th July 2018.Commencing invoices for the allotment season • We still let the plot via a twelve at 9.45am at Oakenshaw, 10.45am at 2018-2019. Rents are due on or before month unsecured tenancy. Park Top and 11.30 at Springfield. the 1st April 2018.Failure to pay by this • Applications from residents who All allotment winners will be notified in date could result in your tenancy have been previously been agreement being revoked and the plot instructed to vacate the garden for writing and invited to have their whatever reason will not be photograph taken receiving the award. being offered to the next person on the waiting list. accepted. Please note 50% of plots must be • We have provided more robust cultivated and maintained as stated in Allotment rents were frozen last year guidelines on the keeping of poultry 2017-2018.This new season 2018-2019 the Rules.Failure to do so, will result in following recent bird health scares. includes an increase of 3% to cover additional rent being charged following • We still operate a no cockerel rule. increased utilities and maintenance the inspections. costs. An increase for 2019-20 is not • We still operate an over 50% cultivation rule for you to keep a planned. Keep Yourself Up To Date 50% rent discount • Sub letting will not be tolerated If there are any changes to your contact Allotment Policy details, please could you inform us so Further to the revised Lettings Policy Respect Your Allotment that we can keep our records up to that was circulated last year for your Boundaries date. comments these have now been Please keep your fence line in a neat You can do this either by calling into the incorporated into the 2018-19 Policy. and tidy condition. This mirrors that used by Durham Town Council office at 67 High Street, County Council to provide consistency Under no circumstances can you throw Willington, via email to in allotment management. rubbish over the fence into the [email protected] or by adjoining plots or surrounding fields. telephone 01388 417725. • Please note that we no longer This causes complaints to the council accept joint tenancies within our from private land owners and is National Allotment Week 2018 will parish but we can offer co-worker dangerous to the landowners run from 13th – 19th August 2018. agreements. domestic pets and livestock. 7 This years Halloween celebrations were bigger and better than ever.

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Pumpkin Carving and The winners were: Fancy Dress Crafts were held on the First Prize Logan Scott (Clown) age 4 afternoon of Thursday Carved Pumpkins 26th October 2017 this First Prize Morgan Lowes age 8 Second Prize Indie May (Jigsaw) age 10 Second Prize Matthew Evans age 11 was then followed at Third Prize John Bolton (Pirate) age 2 6pm by a Halloween Third Prize Poppy Robinson age 12 Highly Commended Party. Highly Commended With pumpkin judging, Scarlet Joyce age 10 Daisy Mulholland (Malificent) age 7 fancy dres s a nd a Magic Cayden Cairnes age 5 The winning Shop Front show. Not forgetting the Ewan McDonough age 6 Spooky Soup, Horror First Prize House of Beauty Tony Smith age 12 Hotdo gs and Scary Story. Holly Blenkiron age 12 Highly Commended Fosters Opticians

A b ig thank you to Arthur Burnham who delivered the G.W.T.C Pumpkins to Parkside Academy, Our Lady and St Thomas, Willington Primary and Sunnybrow Schools for the children to enjoy and take home. 8 e: [email protected] w: www.gwtc.co.uk Oakenshaw Community Northern Heartlands Orchard Garden

Northern Heartland’s Our Great Place is in County mission is to deliver Durham and includes the cultural activities that catchment of two rivers – the transform people’s Tees and the Wear – understanding of the extending from their sources heritage, landscapes in the North Pennines to the and places they live in, lowland arc through which building their confidence they flow. The area includes and ability to influence policy and decision- the market towns of Barnard making. Castle, Bishop Auckland, Shildon, Crook, Tow Law Northern Heartlands is one and Willington and the of sixteen Great Place communities of part of the Schemes in the UK funded former Durham coalfield, The Community Orchard established. Fruit trees and by Heritage Lottery Fund Garden was created for bushes have been planted, and Arts Council England. together with the isolated hill the benefit of both the and as they develop their They are using a ‘cultural farms and villages of the community and local harvest can be shared by landscape’ approach, rural upper Dales. wildlife. It is managed and the village. All-weather paths recognising that landscape maintained by a small group The Town Council will be have been created together and places are shaped by of villagers under control of with a shelter and seating, working with Northern the Oakenshaw Community what has happened in the and a raised bed has been past, what is happening now Heartlands in coming Association with help from built to encourage the months on a number of village volunteers. and what may happen in the involvement of less mobile future. Our landscapes tell projects. More details to Greater Willington Town gardeners. The orchard an ever-changing story. follow. Council provided the garden has easy access allotment to transform into from the road. Landscaping an orchard garden. It has and building work was been designed to be undertaken by Treetops wheelchair friendly and Garden and Fencing easily accessible to all, Construction. offering a place of recreation In 2017, following an initial and contemplation, and Open Day to introduce the providing opportunities for Orchard Garden to the Spectrum offer a wide range of sports, leisure and involvement in gardening community, it successfully other wellbeing activities aimed at all ages at their and other group activities. hosted two further village centre on Hunwick Lane, Willington, where they recently celebrated 10 years trading. The garden has progressed events, a Halloween over the past few years from gathering and a Christmas They have recently updated cardio and resistance an empty plot. The main Tree lights and decoration equipment in their gym rooms as well as spinning and design with a series of event. All events were very other activities. areas for different planting well attended and it is hoped Call 01388 747000 or check out their website for schemes has now been to add more in the future. details (www.spectrumleisurecentre.com).

Town Planters North Dene and South Dene A big thank you to the Environment group volunteers We are working with the County Council to address the who continue to restock the planters around the parish. problems in both the North and South Denes where the paths have subsided and a bridge has washed out due They are amongst the best in the County. G.W.T.C are to the intense rainfall over the winter. pleased to meet the project costs for this work. There will likely require significant expenditure but we The group also plan to carry out a North Dene spring know how much people enjoy these areas and how clean. The dates will be advertised and members would important they are for the town so we are determined be grateful if you can volunteer some of your time to help. to sort them out.

9 County Councillor Surgeries (Willington & Hunwick) with Cllr Olwyn Gunn and Cllr Fraser Tinsley Your County Councillors for the Willington & Hunwick Division (including Sunnybrow, Oakenshaw, Brancepeth and Page Bank) will be holding surgeries at Greater Willington Town Council Offices (67 High St, Willington) on the following dates: 31st May 27th September 26th July 29th November Surgery time - 6pm (on the final Thursday of the month - alternating with the Police & Community Together (PACT) meeting in Willington). Cllr Olwyn Gunn Cllr Fraser Tinsley Drop-in or contact Olwyn / Fraser to make an appointment. Tel: 03000 26 87 14 Tel: 03000 26 86 91 [email protected] www.facebook.com/ [email protected] willingtonandhunwicklabour

Councillor Contact Details

Councillor Fraser Tinsley Councillor Patricia Greensmith Councillor Arthur Graham Town Mayor 62 Armstrong Drive, Willington Lyncrest, North Lane, Willington, 4 Raby Terrace, Willington, Crook Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0GB Crook Co. Durham, DL15 0HR M: 07425139223 Co. Durham, DL15 0HJ M: 07768054693 [email protected] H: 01388 745969 [email protected] Councillor Dean Maynard Councillor Olwyn Gunn Councillor Kenneth Henfrey 41 Abbots Green, Willington 7 Railway Terrace, Hunwick Deputy Town Mayor Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0QZ Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0RA 14 York Terrace, Willington, Crook M: 07806556660 M: 03000268714 Co. Durham, DL15 0HT [email protected] [email protected] H: 01388 747216 Councillor Owen Woods Councillor Angela Smith Councillor Joe Cogdon 30 Birch Drive, Willington 1 Kensington Terrace, Willington, Ennerdale, Cumberland Terrace, Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0BL Crook Willington Crook, Co. Durham, M: 07794722809 Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0PJ DL15 0PB [email protected] H: 01388 746297 M: 07881631106 [email protected] [email protected] Councillor Alison Danby 32 Moorland Close, Sunnybrow Councillor Margaret Elgie Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 0XB 5 Helmington Grove, Sunnybrow, M: 07751040429 Crook Co. Durham, DL15 0ND [email protected] H: 01388 746851 M: 07769735853 [email protected] 10 Community Fund Awards The Council continues to encourage • Willington Cricket Club was • Willington Youth Football were applications from Local Groups. awarded £450 to help refurbish the awarded £500 for Pitch and pavilion. Coaching fees. You can apply for up to 75% of the • Rosedale and Victoria Allotments • Willington Football Club were total project costs or £500 whichever is successful in drawing down £500 were granted £500 to improve the for facilities and pitch maintenance the lesser. access road and buy materials for Unfortunately we cannot accept planters around the site. • Greater Willington Environmental Improvement Group were awarded applications from individuals, • Willington Disabled Club received £500 to plant and restock the businesses or statutory organisations. £500 for room hire. twelve parish planters.

CThe Civiicv Fundi isc a sm aFll donuation n• dThe CiAvic Funwd was uased tro hedlp s • Willington Disabled Club members to help towards community host The North Of England Brass received a donation towards a activities or services that are used Band Championship at the Christmas meal and Christmas activities. to benefit our community. GalaTheatre. If your community group is working in • St Stephens Church parishioners • We supported the Great North Air joined forces to write a Traditional this way to help others. Simply write to Ambulance as we do every year Foods Recipe Book. the Town Clerk outlining how you with running costs. would like to spend the £50.00 that • Fifty pounds was approved to help may be available to you. • Dovedale Community Centre used organise the Dale and Valley Homes, Queens Birthday Street their donation to provide a • Willington Luncheon Club used Party for the Customer Panel. their donation to help with running Christmas meal that was much appreciated. • A donation was made to the School costs. Benevolent Fund to help provide • Durham Cathedral received help • The Older Person’s Christmas families in need with their towards conservation of the central Lunch with Parkside Academy was Children’s school coats and shoes. tower and The Treasures of St supported. This is now an annual • Willington Youth Football are Cuthbert exhibition. event. looking to start a girls team.

G A & J M Foster Opticians 92 High Street Willington Co Durham DL15 0PE T: 01388 746800 e: [email protected] Opening Times Monday to Friday 8.30 - 5.00 Saturday 9.00 - 12.00

11 Christmas Pantomime 2017 The Town Council in partnership with Willington Working Mens Club were delighted to provide the Cinderella Pantomime for our younger residents on 2 December 2017. This was followed by a surprise visit from Santa who talked to 180 children and gave them each a Christmas present. The Towns The costs of the event were Christmas Tree met by a three hundred pound donation each from and Illuminations County Councillors Olwyn Gunn and Fraser Tinsley, a We were privileged once one hundred and fifty pound again to provide the Town’s donation from Willington Christmas Tree in 2017 Working Mens Club and an which was topped with a eight hundred and sixty new shining star. nine pound contribution from the Town Council. This year saw the introduction of Christmas spheres to Our thanks are extended to from which to host the Saturday in December decorate the deciduous trees the Working Mans Club’s Pantomime. 2018. We are looking on the Town Green. Six more representative, Shirley forward to another exciting Liddle who helped sell Due to popular demand large column motifs were also there will be another and fun packed afternoon tickets and the Committee with Dick Whittington. purchased. This resulted in who provided the venue Pantomime the first quite a colourful display and received may compliments including one from the Lord Lieutenant, Sue Snowdon who urged people to drive through Willington to see the lights. Unfortunately the light switch on was hampered by very bad snow. We had planned to have Oli Patto (an up and coming local celebrity and former X factor contestant) to switch on the Tree lights however he was delayed and the task was Christmas Carol Service admirably performed by The Christmas Civic Service Councillor Fraser Tinsley, Byker Bear from the Chyrelle at Our Lady and St Thomas Town Mayor welcomed Addams Cancer Trust. Roman Catholic Church everyone and spoke about was very well attended the meaning of Christmas Refreshments were considering the snowy and looking after the more provided at the council office weather. The service was vulnerable neighbours who and as Ollie arrived later he led by Father Brian Murphy may need a little extra support with music provided by during the winter months. still managed to perform a Aycliffe and Brancepeth few songs. Brass Band. He then extended an invitation We had planned to extend Our appreciation is extended to watch the lighting of the Catering was provided by the illuminations to include the to the readers and St Thomas Town’s Christmas Tree, Party Platters and music columns around St Stephens School children who sang followed by refreshments Away in a Manger. @ The Market. by Oli Patto. Church.However much to our disappointment, on investigation we learnt that we are not permitted to fix motifs to old Northern Power Civic Duties Grid columns. This rule also The town council receives invitations throughout the year from neighbouring applies to most of the columns parishes to attend Civic functions and fundraising events. on the High Street at the Networking gives the opportunity to share good practice and promote the activities we have lower end of Willington. organised in our parish. We would like to thank Deputy Mayor Ken Henfrey and his wife Margaret for giving up their time to attend these events on behalf of G.W.T.C. 12