Esh Leaves Esh Parish Council Newsletter for Esh, Langley Park, Quebec, Ushaw and Wilk’S Hill

Issue 21, July 2007

Esh Leaves Esh Parish Council newsletter for Esh, Langley Park, Quebec, Ushaw and Wilk’s Hill

Submit articles for the November 2007 edition to: The Editor, 8 Long Garth, Durham City, DH1 4HJ or email to [email protected] or leave at Esh or Langley Park Post Office by 30 September 2007

Officer and A QUALITY PARISH various COUNCIL councillors.

If you receive any literature The from the Parish Council in photograph on future you will notice a new page 32 in our logo on our headed paper. last issue We are very pleased to gives you announce that, from over some idea of 8,500 Parish and Town the size of this councils in the country, Esh task (3 Parish Council is the sixth enormous Parish Council in County lever arch th Durham, and the 427 files). Esh Parish Councillors & Officers nationally, to receive the Evidence had coveted designation of to be provided to show that; Council is one of the best Quality Parish Council Status. the council was democratic; local councils in the Country. Of the 426 other successful meetings were run I would like to thank the councils around 50% have competently and properly Parish Clerk, Geoff Smith, for budgets substantially more minuted; accounts were in all his hard work over the last than Esh Parish Council‟s. order; we communicated with 18 months in obtaining a residents (via Esh Leaves, Certificate in Local Council What does this mean for newsletters and our web site); Administration and then residents of Esh Parish? and that our Clerk was preparing, and submitting, a adequately qualified. Geoff portfolio for approval to the Quality Parish Council status has previously created a Accreditation Panel under the is the Government similar portfolio of evidence in Quality Parish Council benchmark for Parish and order to obtain his qualified scheme. My thanks also to Town Councils. It is your Parish Clerk certificate, so he other Councillors and staff for assurance that Esh Parish is now Esh Parish‟s „Mr their valuable contributions”. Council is representative, in Portfolio‟! touch with its community, Councillor William Waters, competent and capable of Chairman Alan Mollon said chairman of the County taking on additional “Over the years we have Durham Association of Local responsibilities for the benefit worked hard to maintain and Councils added “A lot of hard of its electorate. Conferment improve the services we work and commitment is of the award is based on a provide for the benefit of our required to obtain Quality portfolio of evidence created community. This Parish Council Status and by the Parish Clerk, Geoff accreditation is the highest both the councillors and clerk Smith, with the assistance of accolade any Town or Parish are to be congratulated on the assistant clerk Mike Council can achieve and is Ackroyd, David Rider, the IT confirmation that Esh Parish CONTENTS PAGE 2 their success. This is relation to drugs in Langley especially pleasing as Esh Park. This has resulted in Parish Council is one of the several arrests with enquiries smaller Parish Councils within ongoing. the County and are an An item for our Farmers - inspiration for others to Securing your Fertilisers Off road Motorbikes follow”. Suggest you visit the following web site - Off-road motorbikes continue Having obtained Quality www.secureyourfertiliser.g to be a problem, particularly Status the Parish Council is ov.uk in and around Park Drive. We now able to discuss with both have issued a number of the County Council, and On our Bikes warning notices and will District Council, the possible continue to do so until the delivery of more local In future don‟t be surprised if message gets through to services either separately or you see either myself or PC those responsible. in partnership with them. We Jacklyn Fenwick beating your already run some services on Parish on a mountain bike. Summer security behalf of the District Council, and receive a payment for Below is a photograph of me With the warmer weather it's this through an annual taking delivery of my bike. easy to forget about home contribution in addition to security, but traditionally our Precept. Any the summer months additional responsibilities mean an increase in the Parish Council is able burglary. By following to take over will be based some simple steps you on similar negotiations. can help to protect your The advantage of doing home and belongings this is, of course, that we and still make the most of are more local and so the summer better placed to consult with the residents of Esh At home Parish and so deliver the services you require. If you're in your back garden make sure you Chris Bloor, Vice keep doors and windows

Chairman, Esh Parish secure. Ensure that if you Council PCSO Brown on the far right taking have a barbecue in your delivery of his bike back garden that all CONTENTS windows and doors at the Drugs front of the house are locked Item Page Niall Quinn 6 By now you're probably Use strong locks on all Master Plumber 6 aware of the closure order external doors and easy to EQUaL 8 placed on a property in Hall of Fame 11 reach windows - such as Parish Council News 12 Railway Street, Langley Park. those on the ground floor, School News 16 This was due to the ongoing above flat roofs or near Mr Ben Newton 17 drugs problems at the drainpipes. Wildlife Corner 18 address. The magistrates' Words of Wisdom 19 court ordered the property Don't hang keys where they Blackburn Farm 19 'closed' for 3 months in April. could easily be reached Working on the Wear 20 Over the past few months Last Orders 21 through a letterbox or window we've been involved in a and never leave them on a number of warrants with

Esh Leaves Page 2 July 2007 sideboard where they are When leaving your vehicle time each week, fortnight to visible make sure there is nothing on look after the youth club? - show we can't do anything without Keep valuable items away responsible adults. from windows where they If you have satellite could be seen by passers-by. navigation (SatNav) system in Obviously this is at a very This includes home your car remove it when you early stage but if I can get a computers and television leave your vehicle and wipe list of possible volunteers and sets. away sucker marks from your ideas then we'll have windscreen. something to work with. Never leave garden equipment unattended, even Before going on holiday Making contact for short periods of time If you're going on holiday use We're always contactable on Garages and sheds timer switches on radios and the 0845 6060365 number, I lamps to give the impression can be contacted on Try to keep your garage door the property is occupied extension 664 4420 or via my open only for as long as is fortnightly beat surgeries in necessary. If thieves can see Don't make any significant the housing office on Thomas there is something worth changes to the exterior of Street. My Streetsafe box, stealing from a garage they your property. For example, if also in the housing office is could come back later and you never a shut your gate ideal for leaving messages, break in when you're at home, don't anonymous reports etc. shut it when you go away. As with items in your home, Beat Surgery dates valuables stored in either a Make an arrangement with a shed or a garage should be trusted friend or neighbour to 13th and 27th July marked with your postcode check on your home while 10th and 24th August and house number so if they you're away 7th and 21st September are stolen and recovered you 12th and 26th October can be traced and reunited Look at your home through 9th and 23rd November with your property the eyes of a burglar. If you can get into your house Enjoy the sunshine, Large expensive equipment, without keys then so can a like lawn mowers, should be burglar Steve - PCSO 6654 fastened to something bulky. Alternatively, fit anchor posts Langley Park Youth Club USHAW COLLEGE: A attached to the floor to LONG HISTORY provide a fixed point for Whilst on 'the beat' a number locking your belongings to of youths ask me what can In 2008 Ushaw will celebrate they do, where can they go to its second centenary, but its I still have a small number of talk to their mates, play pool origins go a long way further shed alarms available free of etc. I am hoping to put back, to the period of the charge, contact me at something in place, working English Reformation and, in Lanchester Police Office with other organisations but I particular, to the reign of need YOUR HELP! Queen Elizabeth I (1558- Vehicles 1603). Elizabeth‟s decrees Young people - What do you outlawed the Catholic religion Don't leave windows and want to do? - motorbikes, and came to be accepted by roofs open on vehicles while football, rock climbing etc. the majority of people. A they are unattended declining number resisted the Adults - Are you willing to changes, and continued to volunteer a few hours of your practise their religion in secret Esh Leaves Page 3 July 2007 despite increasing fines, England. Steps had already years until on the 19th July imprisonment and even been taken to accommodate 1808 the first few students death. Some escaped the students who had come were able to walk the eight abroad to prepare for the day away from Douai. Some miles from Crook Hall to their when the Queen would be were offered hospitality at Old new College at Ushaw.* deposed and the Catholic Hall Academy, near Ware in Church restored. Hertfordshire, and in the north The original estate of Ushaw Bishop William Gibson covered some 400 acres, and Among these was William brought some of his students included the hamlet of Allen, who founded a college to Tudhoe Academy near Ushaw, a scattering of at Douai, closely associated Durham. buildings along the roadside with the university there, with from the junction at the the express intention of A few months later Gibson College Farm towards providing education on a leased Pontop Hall, and Bearpark. The hamlet Catholic basis, and supplying shortly afterwards transferred included a local bakehouse, priests to England to minister the College to Crook Hall where people could bring to the hard-pressed Catholics near present day Consett their bread to be baked, and there. Within ten years it had which they occupied in an inn known as the Black trained 100 priests for the October 1794. The search for Horse. These have long since English mission and by the a permanent home continued, disappeared: the last time Elizabeth died in 1603 and by 1799 the decision had remaining building from those that number had increased to been taken to buy land and times is the small cottage at nearly 500. They had to purpose-build a new College. the west side of the farm. The enter England in secret, as other buildings were it was a treasonable thought to have been offence for them to arrive small cottages, with as priests and to say associated allotments Mass. It is thought that where subsistence 122 of the men from Douai farming was carried College paid the price for out. Much of the land treason, which was death would have been open by hanging. Several of moor, and the more these made their way to modern settlements of the north of England: Bearpark, Ushaw Moor locally John Boste was and Langley Park had captured at Waterhouses not yet come into in 1593. He was 1799 map of Ushaw being. condemned at Durham and executed at Dryburn. A local landowner at Esh, Sir From the outset the College Edward Smythe, a devout had to provide for itself and War between Britain and Catholic, agreed to sell part of began some more intensive France and the outbreak of his estate on Ushaw Moor, agriculture around the site, the French Revolution meant including the hamlet of employing local people for the difficult times for the College, Ushaw. The transaction with work, and using some of the and ultimately its closure at him was completed in buildings at the hamlet site. Douai. Many of the students December 1799, but it was This site was later developed dispersed, and when all still another five years before into the College Farm, which British property was the Bishop had sufficient was designed to assist the confiscated those remaining backing from his clergy to be delivery of all the produce were imprisoned by officers of able to order work to start on needed to sustain the the revolution in 1793, and the building in 1804. Severe growing community. not released until 1795, when shortage of funds meant that they were deported to building took another four

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Local people were also domestic and kitchen staff, would like to welcome the employed in the quarry gardeners, tailors, porters, local community to the behind the Board Inn at Hill just about every trade college, as so many of you Top, which supplied most of imaginable to support the are in some way part of the stone used to build the community. There were Ushaw, or may like to see College and which continued certainly butchers and more of it. Information will be in use until 1960, when the bakers, and even a available on our website: last major building candlestick maker: one of our www.ushaw.ac.uk, and if programme took place. The gas fitters made candle you want to receive village of Hill Top grew with stands for the chapels in the information directly about the the College, providing late 1800‟s. bicentenary, please send us accommodation for an email to those who worked bicentenary@ushaw here, and also some .ac.uk. workshop space: tailors and shoemakers used * As part of the to work there supplying celebrations, some of directly to the College our past students and community. Old community hope to Ordnance Survey retrace the walk from maps show that there Crook Hall to Ushaw were at least 30 on 19th July 2008. houses in Hill Top, but very few of these 1860 Map of Ushaw Peter Seed, Director remain. Hill Top was of Estates and also the site of a coal mine Many families have been Facilities supplying the College and linked with the college for local people. Coal was used generations, and some of DERWENTSIDE DISTRICT for heating, and from the their descendants are still COUNCIL NEWS 1830‟s until the 1920‟s for the associated with us. Members My name is Bryan Walker generation of gas for lighting, of the Dixon, Towns, and and I have taken over from at a plant sited in the aptly Goundry families can trace Alan Tubman as known “Gas House” to the their ancestors back through Neighbourhood Manager at north east of the College. A decades at Ushaw, Hill Top Langley Park. Alan has taken windmill for the grinding of and the surrounding villages. over duties at Consett and corn and animal feed was Moorside. constructed on the ridge to The College is not now the the west of the College, which 500-people community I expect to be in this position worked until the 1850‟s, when remembered from past years, until the completion of the it was replaced by a steam and it is no longer necessary Housing Services Review, mill at the College farm. to supply all we need from the when we will know the new land around us. The heart of structure. This has been As the buildings and Ushaw is still the permanent targeted to be completed and community grew, more and Seminary community, and a in operation by the Autumn. more people were employed: broadening audience in the College could almost be conference and other visitors Tenants views are welcome considered as a village in to the College contribute in the review process, and as itself, with over 400 students, significantly to the Esh doesn't have a Residents 45 teaching staff, and all the atmosphere here. Association to feedback support staff needed to keep comments, any Tenants can the College running and Within some of the contact Eric Appleby, growing. There were farm celebrations of our 200th Principal Neighbourhood workers, building staff, anniversary in 2008, we Manager, in writing, at the Esh Leaves Page 5 July 2007

Front Street Office in Stanley, well known (and perhaps not edition, we will have to hold or by telephone on 01207 so well known) players and over Part 2 until the 218535, to express any then making that vital draw November 2007 edition of comments or opinions they for the winning raffle tickets. Esh Leaves. If you can‟t wait might have on what service or until then why not visit improvements they would like Thank you Niall for sparing www.cardwatch.org.uk to see. the time to talk to your loyal where you will find some Langley Park Branch (and more useful information on Earlier this year Derwentside others) and for donating the credit cards. Homes sent every tenant two signed shirt (achieving a copies of their new Tenancy higher price than could have Agreement. One to sign and been expected on eBay). It return to us, and one to keep was fairly obvious from the themselves. There is still a deafening round of applause number of Tenants who have at the end of Niall‟s not returned a copy. It would presentation that the big man be appreciated if Tenants is shaping up to be a model could check, and if they have ambassador for his Club. not yet returned one, could they please do so as soon as Good luck to Sunderland, possible. Middlesbrough and MEMORIES OF A Newcastle in 2007/08 and to MASTER PLUMBER Bryan Walker all the teams supported by Neighbourhood Manager our readers. R. L. Wellborn, Eng. Tech; L. Tel. 01207 218622 or 0191 C. G. I.; M. I. P. H. E.; R. P., 3735467 TIPS TO AVOID IDENTITY Langley Park Care Home. Fax.01207 218620 or 0191 FRAUD – PART 2 3737423 I have been asked if I would b.walker@derwentsidehom give a little of my life story. I In the March 2007 edition of es.co.uk was born in 1915 to a working Esh Leaves listed a range of class family. I had a good tips to help keep your identity AN EVENING WITH mother and father who taught safe. We had intended to NIALL QUINN us to respect the older continue on the theme of The generation. Will all Newcastle United and warning signs of identity

Middlesbrough fans miss out theft and fraud. Due to the We lived in the Gosforth the next few paragraphs in large number of articles, and district of Newcastle. I the interest of harmony in the adverts received for this Parish. entered Coxlodge Elementary School at the age of four and What a night, a full a half years odd, it was about house, a sense of a mile from where I lived and occasion and Niall I walked this four times a day, Quinn speaking to and from school. passionately about Sunderland Football Physical punishment was Club. It was well allowed in those days, the worth the 2 hour cane was liberally used, step wait to hear the new a little out of line, or be slow Chairman setting at picking things up and you out his business got three of the best caning plan for the Club, on each hand. I was slow at sharing fascinating Niall Quinn speaking at the Langley Park picking up what the teacher anecdotes on some branch of the Sunderland supporters club said, therefore I had the Esh Leaves Page 6 July 2007

necessary punishment.

We had no calculators, all calculations were mentally done, we had to make our brain do the work. At the age of fourteen years I left school, which was the age then to leave school. I got a job as an errand boy at a chemist‟s shop delivering to customers, this I did until I was sixteen.

I wanted to be a sea going engineer like my oldest brother George, but the shipyards were paying people off, therefore I got R. L. Wellborn receiving the Master Plumbers Certificate the next best thing as an I did for a year before being advising on the design and apprentice plumber. drafted back to barracks. detailed scale drawing of services for estimation to The plumber I was serving It was a fortnight there then I contractors. my apprenticeship with, in our was drafted to HMS Kellet, lunchtime or any spare Navy minesweeper. I served I hold a Master Plumbers moment, taught me how to do for two years with her then Certificate presented to me technical scale drawings. I was sent back to barracks to by the President of the think he must have attended sit a Seamans Torpedomans Institute of Plumbing and college, but he never said, course. This in the Navy is Heating Engineers. one way or the other. the electrician branch. I was then drafted to submarine I hope this will be of interest I finished my apprenticeship service which I did for about to you. at 21 years of age. I worked three years before being on building sites carrying out demobilised back to civilian R. L. Wellborn the work of my trade. In 1938 life. We currently have volunteer I got work with the Newcastle Breweries, before it was Having been in the Electrician VOLUNTEERS NEEDED taken over and named the Branch in the Navy, I asked AT UNIVERSITY Scottish and Newcastle the Head Brewer if I could go HOSPITAL Breweries, as a plumber. back as an electrician, this he said I could do, but said as vacancies for mornings, This is the first part of my they were wanting a afternoons, evenings and history as a plumber, war was chargehand plumber, would I weekends in the retail and declared in 1939 and being consider going back to my old coffee shops. on R.N.V.R. rating I was trade, this I said I would, and mobilised into the Royal was reinstated as such. If you are interested please Navy. contact: The first ship I was on was I worked my way up to WRVS national volunteer the (AMC) Armed Merchant Plumbing Supervisor, then to recruitment line on: Cruiser Ausoria, being a Plumbing Consultant and 0845 601 4670 plumber I worked with the worked with the Development merchant Navy Plumber, this Engineers Department Esh Leaves Page 7 July 2007

signpost to get more of what people want. I‟m information or help. looking forward to getting round a few more groups, if The Community Day anyone would like me to We are complemented this by getting come along to their meetings pleased to your views through to chat, update them, or to announce community groups, on what ask me questions I‟d be really that we should happen in Esh Ward happy to hear from them.” have been in the future. There successful were approximately 20 in gaining funding £20,000 people from about 10 from the Northern Rock groups. The facilitator, Foundation this is to provide Wilf Richards, made a community Capacity the morning enjoyable, Worker for 2 extra hours per interesting, informative week for April 2007 – March – people found out 2008, the 9 hours per week about groups they did from April 2008 – March not know existed – 2010. This is really useful as productive, and fun, the Coalfields Regeneration but there was also a Photograph of one of the Community Groups Trust funding for the lot of hard work Community Capacity Worker involved too. The runs out in March 2008 and outcome so far, is that a Mining Memories this will not only provide some report has been produced continuity, but will also act as which is being circulated to all Congratulations to this new a basis to apply for further invited community groups. If group for putting on such a funds to help Esh Ward you would like a copy or comprehensive and Community. further copies they can be interesting exhibition, and obtained from Karen – details taking it to Langley Park Because of this EQUaL have at the end. Primary School for the recently been doing children to get some hands some hard thinking on experience of the and talking and equipment, some idea of listening to people what it would be like to be and community a miner, and being able to groups to make sure link their work and learning that we are working in to their heritage. best way possible to support the See also the centre pages. community of Esh Ward. Nature Reserve

Some work was done Some planting of new on what the role of Photograph of one of the Community Groups shrubs and plants has the Community been going on this spring, Capacity Worker should be – Karen‟s Quote with more to come – watch supporting the development “I have been to a few out for notices and details on of community groups, Community Group‟s meetings the website. capacity building within the and given talks, but this was groups, especially new great to get representatives Community IT groups, helping people to from so many groups acquire skills to use in the together and be able to listen The roof might have been community and acting as a and gain more understanding leaking but the new

Esh Leaves Page 8 July 2007

equipment is up to scratch. AGM Adult and Community With faster equipment and Services Libraries Learning new software it‟s much more We also held our Annual and Culture, together with fun. You can Skype too – General Meeting, a Rosemary Laxton, Head of What‟s Skype I hear – its successful event at which an libraries Learning and brilliant – talk and see your update on the Library Culture, and Councillor Joe friends and family over the situation was provided by Armstrong to speak, they internet wherever they are, as Anne Davison, Rosemary provided an update on the long as they have Broadband Laxton and Joe Armstrong, current position of the Library or equivalent and can our thanks to them, please in Langley Park. download Skype – see separate section on the demonstrations can be Library update. There has been a lot of arranged. Contact Karen or background work undertaken come to one of the sessions: to make the progress to date, Monday 2 – 4pm, a Service Level Agreement Wednesday 2 – 4pm or has been worked out that will Friday 5 – 7pm. be between the community and Durham County Council Eve Spirit & Health the new taking into account CISWO women‟s holistic, any age, (Coal Industry Social Welfare health group are having a Organisation) conditions. See meeting on the Saturday the further details on 23rd June, between 2.00 and Anne Davison, Rosemary Laxton www.equal.vcip.org.uk or 4.00pm, come along and find and Joe Armstrong contact Karen on 0787 943 out what it‟s all about, or Richard Bowyer also provided 5422 contact Karen. a report on the current situation regarding the Sir Further investigations have With the summer coming Bobby Robson Park, with a been undertaken into the soon the Youth Workers, supplemental very up to date fabric of the building and the Louise and Laura have been and positive report from John increasing costs necessary to busy with the young people Congleton who informed us bring it up to standard. A bid helping them to access funds that progress was being to the Big Lottery was made to do activities and trips over made on supplying the by the County Council in the summer period. They are information needed for the March 2007 with a proposed also able to provide lease to the solicitors from the £180,000 for this project the information on sexual health Langley Park Sports and result is due September and relationships. Social Club. Thank you 2007. This funding, together Richard and John. with the £320,000 already Esh Leaves – SRB allocated, could become Community Resource fund Langley Park Library available to start work in Update March 2008. However, We are pleased to announce without the Lottery Funding the allocation of the SRB At EQUaL‟s AGM on the 17th there are not enough funds to Community Resource Fund: May 2007 we were lucky to provide the facility at the have Anne Davison, “Tute” and alternatives would Grant Allocation Divisional Manager, North need to be investigated. Group Name Project Amount Quebec & Dist. Village Hall Assoc. Replacement Guttering £1000.00 Karen Gibson Langley Park & Dist. Community Assoc. Set up costs for Toddler Group £2000.00 EQUaL‟s Community Langley Park Bowling Club New Roofing on storage shed £1400.00 Capacity Worker Langley Park Miners Welfare Institute Environmental Project £2154.00 Langley Park Angling Association Environmental Improvements £ 320.15 Tel: 0787 943 5422 EQUaL Partnership Stationery £ 79.85 [email protected] Total £6954.00 www.equal.vcip.org.uk

Esh Leaves Page 9 July 2007

Breathing Place, A NEW “TRUST” for wild life, plants RECREATION GROUND and people. Comments from A new Trust has recently the youngsters on been registered by the the right: Charity Commission to look after the old Recreation “We want to keep Ground in Langley Park and the Winnie hopefully attract funding for Bushes, all the the site not previously kids play here, available to the Parish hide and seek, Council. So far grants have climbing trees, we been obtained from hide in the 4 young residents enjoy the old Recreation Ground Derwentside District Council heather and the (Community Resource Fund), dogs come and find us. they’re not, but it will be so The D‟Oyly Charitable Trust I jumped out of a tree and got much better if, with this and…. a nail, which was attached to money, access for motor Breathing Place for a huge piece of wood, stuck bikes and dumping can be in my elbow; so we want to stopped” Langley Park be able to play but more safely without the dumping Quote from EPC Chairman and rubbish. Alan Mollon

A dog walking parent said "It‟s good news about the “It’s a great natural place for funding for a worthwhile Yipeeeee!!! Whow!! the kids to play, you know project when the work is Yahoo!! Were three of the where they are and where complete the people of comments from members of EQUaL, Esh Quebec Ushaw Football Coaching and Activities at and Langley Park‟s Langley Park Sports and Social Club community partnership when told that following their hard Simply sport on behalf of the Langley Park Sunderland Supporters will be running a weeklong programme of Football coaching & activities work £10,000 had been Monday 6th August to Friday 10th August awarded to the Langley Park Miners Welfare Institute and Sessions will run from (arrive 9:30) 10am to 3pm and will be open to boys & girls of age group 4-13 years Recreation Ground Charity from the Big Lottery Fund to Cost turn the “Old Rec” into a 1 day £11, 2 days £14, 3 days £16, 4 days £18, 5 days £20

Breathing Place for the whole Applications available from community. JOHN TURNOCK 12 NETHERTO CLOSE Work can now start on LANGLEY PARK DURHAM erecting a fence to keep out DH7 9FB motor bikes and 4 x 4 Tel: 07791675241 vehicles which are ruining the [email protected] rare lowland heather, clearing Cheques made payable to J. Turnock the ancient footpath and other All monies paid are non refundable work that will mean that local Please bring packed lunches for the course, Splits can provide one for a charge residents and the whole of £1.80 please contact Lynsey direct. Courses will be outdoors all participants community will be able to should bring suitable clothing and where rain is forecast a change of clothing. Appropriate footware & shin pads may be necessary. safely enjoy this lovely site which will become a haven, a Each Child attending will be presented with a shoe/football boot bag

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Langley Park will appreciate Pushed onto the organ stool having their own nature and given a few brief reserve on the doorstep instructions she started to Breathing new life into play. Achieving some the village" success she was invited to be the regular organist for a JOHN FOSTER’S HALL month‟s trial. That month‟s OF FAME trial was to last for 21½ years eventually retiring when she PHYLLIS BIRBECK reached the age of 80. Phyllis Birbeck was born in Ilford, Essex and was On one occasion she was educated at Beal Modern asked to provide a one-hour Phyllis Birbeck tape recording of church School, in Ilford. Her father was employed by London Institute. Quite happy as an music for an all-day flower North Eastern Railway and at ordinary member of the latter festival at All Saints. Mrs. the time Phyllis left school he organisation she was in the Birbeck happily obliged. This was transferred to a post with course of time to find herself caused some amusement the same firm at Doncaster. nominated for the post of and some irritation to Secretary which she took on stewards who were in Phyllis was able to get a job for a year and remained in attendance for much of a long with the L. N. E. R. and office for four years. After day as the tape was played started work in the office. which she was proposed as over and over throughout the President for a year and festival. Mrs. Birbeck played As her 21st birthday was served for around seventeen the church organ for regular approaching a group of years. Then, having now services, weddings, funerals friends suggested she should „retired‟, she was to take on and for special services have a party to celebrate the the Treasurer‟s duties for a celebrating visits to the parish important milestone in her further two years. of church dignitaries such as life. This was during the war the Bishop of Durham. She years and it was decided to Always interested in was also a member of The invite some young Royal Air handicrafts she decided to Parochial Church Council. Force men, who were take a Women‟s Institute two- stationed in Doncaster, to the day course to learn about To aid church funds and with event. One of these was Gold Thread Embroidery. As the help of church members Albert Birbeck who came a result she was asked if she Phyllis also compiled a book from Langley Park. The two would make some vestments of recipes which proved to be got on well together and for All Saints Church, which very popular. became good friends. she did. She also designed the banner for the Mothers‟ Her husband Albert worked in In 1945 the war ended and Union that can be seen in the the Grocery Department of the following year Phyllis and church today. Langley Park Branch of Albert married. Phyllis came Annfield Plain Co-operative to Langley Park finding As a member of the Mother‟s Society and also at the herself somewhat alone Union she was asked to put Finings Branch. Eventually among a close-knit mining into use her limited musical he became a manager at village community. talents when she was Durham and later at Annfield persuaded to play the piano Plain. He had three brothers However, she was eventually for some of their meetings. and a sister. to join the Mothers‟ Union at One day she found herself All Saint‟s Church and also asked to play the church Sadly Albert died in 1983. became a member of the organ, an instrument of which Mrs. Birbeck has one son, local branch of the Womens‟ she had no knowledge. Alan, who now lives in Esh Leaves Page 11 July 2007

Saltburn and a sister, Doris, who has lived in Canada since 1946.

Having come to Langley Park as a complete stranger Mrs. Birbeck has now become very much a part of and a highly respected member of the local community.

WITTON GILBERT

PLAYGROUP Cooper Hall, Witton Gilbert.

Our playgroup, which is held be a rewarding experience for course the parents who bring in Cooper Hall, currently has both parent and child. their children to us, the group places available for children would not be able to continue. from the ages of 2½ years. It All children are offered a offers the perfect environment healthy snack and a drink mid If you would like to know for pre nursery school morning. The snacks vary more about our playgroup or children to experience a daily, giving the children the you would like to register your range of different activities chance to experience child, please telephone and opportunities, to develop different tastes and textures Joanne Embleton on 0191 their skills and to gain of food. This structured time 3719668 or 07756886530 independence. The children also teaches the children (mobile). are well cared for in safe, social skills and good table bright, stimulating manners. ESH PARISH COUNCIL surroundings. NEWS The playgroup; which has The group is successfully run been established for over 30 The Local Authorities by the manager Joanne years takes children from (Model Code of Conduct) Embleton, and the assistant Witton Gilbert, Sacriston and Order 2007. manager Ann Curry, there is more recently from Langley also a qualified team of relief Park since the closure of its The Parish Council has staff who step in to cover for group at All Saints Youth received a copy of the Local absences. Parents/carers Centre. Children from Authorities (Model Code of are also asked to help out on surrounding areas are also Conduct) Order 2007, a rota system from time to very welcome. We are open Statutory Instrument no1159 time to comply with daily (term time) from and has agreed:-. regulations and ensure the 9.00a.m. until 11.30a.m. The a) To adopt the model of correct ratio of children to fees are £12.50 per week and code of conduct including adults is adhered to. This all monies go towards a paragraph 12(2). rota system is a vital part of salary for the manager and b) That copies of the code the playgroups success and assistant manager, most of are available in the Parish without it the playgroup would the equipment/toys etc. have Room at Church Street cease to exist, it is therefore been bought from funds Community Centre, greatly appreciated, it does raised specifically for the Langley Park for also however give group or with money from inspection by the parents/carers the opportunity various grants which have members of the public at to see their children in a been applied for. Without the any reasonable hours by different environment and can continuous support from the contacting the Parish local communities and of Clerk (0191 3736687). Esh Leaves Page 12 July 2007

Esh Leaves Extra May 2007 The Langley Park tree was Contractors carry out Grass "Lit-up" by Rosie Wright, Cutting, Winter Gritting, the Copies of this special edition Anthony Peart and Rebecca provision of over 60 hanging containing the Parish Jameson pupils from Langley baskets and inspecting the Council‟s Annual Report for Park Primary School. The Council's Play areas on a 2006/07 are still available, ceremony was televised by regular basis. from the Parish Room. BBC Look North. See a clip at http://www.eshparishcounc New Library Included in the newsletter il.gov.uk/rosiewright.wmv were details of the Councils We have continued to support unaudited balances as at Play Areas County Councillor Armstrong's 31.03.07. A line was missing work in providing a permanent in the table used. Here it is The Parish Council in library for Langley Park. again in full. partnership with EQUaL has completed the work at Planning Applications Quebec and Esh Play Areas. Account Gross sum Net sum Work continues Throughout the year the Coop No 1 182.84 to complete the Parish Council has Coop No 2 844.23 legal paperwork responded to 48 Planning Coop Inst 4001.41 for the transfer Applications. Details of all Coop Garage Bond 102.21 of two land applications together with a Coop Recreation Ground account 2154.00 leases from note of the Parish Council's Coop Current 300.00 Derwentside response can be found on our Less unpresented cheques - 1319.13 - 1019.13 District Council web site C & G 18393.34 and Langley www.eshparishcouncil.gov.uk AMC No 1 (play areas) 662.49 Park Sports & AMC No 2 18883.41 Social Club to Donations and contributions 44204.80 the Parish to local projects Chairmans annual report Council. Once 2007 complete this will allow the Local projects receiving partnership to bid for funding donations include:- I would like to thank the to provide facilities for the Sir Langley Park Angling Club Council for their support Bobby Robson Park. (juniors) during this year of office and Langley Park Primary School present the Annual report Esh Leaves Newsletter (soccer coaching) outlining the main activities for Kraft Klub 4 Kids the year including:- Three editions printed during Summer Soccer School the year plus one edition of organised by the Langley Park Esh Leaves Extra. branch Sunderland Supporters Councillors Association Liam Looby was co-opted Environmental Esh village senior citizens onto the Council in 2006. Improvement Works Christmas party

Age Concern Langley Park In conjunction with Durham New Notice board for Quebec & District Village Hall Langley Park County Council (Parish Paths Partnership) the Parish Association

Will be erected very soon. Council has arranged for the upgrading of the footpath Social Events

Christmas Decorations which extends from Garden Avenue to the Lanchester During the year the Parish Council organised the Annual Tree and Christmas Walk. Also, in conjunction with Durham County Council Beating the Bounds walk, a decorations provided in winter walk and a pantomime Langley Park and trees (Tree Week) five trees were planted at Quebec Play Area. by Jack Drum Arts who installed in Esh and Quebec. performed Robin Hood Esh Leaves Page 13 July 2007

Allotments meeting) commencing at and it was easy to imagine 7.00pm. the more recent industrial The Parish Council have scene of working pits and supplied lockable gates at the Parish Walk quarries and railways, and entrances to the Earl of folk moving along the tracks Durham allotments site When you live in a place, you we were using … and a more tend not to appreciate it ancient picture, of Roman Precept for 2006/2007 maybe as much as you transport along the Dere should; we have the saying Street stretch, passing from The Parish Council precept „familiarity breeds contempt‟. Lanchester to the next fort. for 2007/2008 will be £31,035 It was gratifying, therefore, to plus a contribution from receive the following letter At Quebec a fine lunch and Derwentside District Council from someone not so familiar cuppa was provided, and of £13,358. The Council Tax with Esh Parish, who returning to Langley Park, I base for 2007/2008 is 1464 accompanied us on the enjoyed the busy allotments, which is an increase of 16 „Beating the Bounds‟ walk on a cricket fie1d waiting for its dwellings from the 2006/2007 May 14th: next match, a Parish Hall figure of 1448 waiting for its make-over (the Thank you for a wonderful wrought iron gates are Parish walk yesterday. My fabulous!) and many exciting Quality Parish Council sister has recently moved to developing gardens. Status Langley Park and I crossed the city from east Durham to An excellent pamphlet will The Parish Council has join her for the walk. It was a guide me round it all again, applied for Quality Parish fascinating glimpse of life, whenever I want, but nobody Council Status. The Portfolio back to the 17th century, with will have the sandwiches and will be assessed by a local the buildings, and their scones and trifle, ready at accreditation panel. The histories, and superb views Quebec! result will be known by the overlooking valleys and the Visitors to Durham, who only end of April 2007 (See the Cathedral. The ancient see the city, miss some great front page for a full report on hedges were glorious with opportunities to explore the this item) hawthorn and wild flowers recent and old history that our

Finally

My thanks to Geoff Smith (Parish Clerk), Mike Ackroyd (Assistant Clerk), David Rider (I.T. Officer) and Mrs Ackroyd (Admin Assistant) for their work and support throughout the year.

Parish Council Monthly Meetings

Times and dates are displayed on the Parish Council‟s noticeboards. The Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month (excepting August – no The 2007 Parish Walk getting underway Esh Leaves Page 14 July 2007 villages contain, and some Place biscuit, fruit and cream A CAPTAIN’S TALE great landscapes too. mixture in layers in a container Sylvia Hope Whisk the other tub of cream Our article on this has been and use as topping held over for the time being. If Leader’s comments Decorate with fruit and a few you, or any of crumbs of biscuit your family or friends, were It has been a feature of these Chill well involved in the filming of A walks over the past 12 years Serves 4 Captain's Tale that whilst there are a number could they please contact the of „regulars‟, each year we Alternative fruits and biscuits Editor on 0191 3736687 or get some new people joining may be used email editor@langley- in, whether this be park.org.uk Weightwatchers wanting a This is a store cupboard route for a sponsored walk, dessert and can be made in CHARITY EVENT BREAKS newcomers to the Parish, or minutes ALL PREVIOUS RECORDS friends of local residents. After the downpour last year, Remember your Long Life The Wicked Witch Golf when we all got thoroughly cream. Society held it‟s 5th annual soaked, I was a bit charity Golf event on Friday apprehensive. The weather ESH LEAVES – THE 25th May 2007, at the Hobson forecast was for rain again BOOK Golf Club, Burnhopfield and I anticipated no walkers followed by a presentation turning up. However, the The reprint is now out. Copies night at the Glendenning weather did clear and we available from Esh, Esh Arms, Witton Gilbert. The aim enjoyed a good walk and Winning and Langley Park of the event was to raise as excellent refreshments Post Offices and the Parish much money as possible for provided by the Chair of the Room (opposite Langley Park the Willowburn Hospice, Parish Council and his wife. Post Office). Price £7.50. Maiden Law, Lanchester. Hurry whilst stocks last! This year 28 teams of 4 Recipe people participated in the event and the winning Following public demand team was led by Terry the Chairman‟s wife has Maguire of the Hobson agreed to the publication Golf Club. A presentation of her secret Paula’s night was held with Pudding recipe:- prizes and trophies being awarded to the winning Ingredients team, longest drive and Tin of pineapples nearest the pin. Tin of oranges

1 strawberry yogurt The Esh Leaves Book and an illustration of the Raffle tickets were sold 2 x 284ml double or old Flour Mill in the Gates shopping whipping cream centre (Durham), Asda Esh Leaves Digestive biscuits (Stanley), in the local villages

Editor of Witton Gilbert and Langley Mr M. G. Ackroyd Park. A collection was also

Method Production Assistant held in Tesco‟s (Gilesgate). Whisk 1 tub of cream and Mr D. C. Rider Winning numbers are: 2007, yogurt together Regular Contributions by 2229, 1869, 266, 790. Crumb biscuits Terry Chilton, Ronald Dover Drain fruit John C. Foster, Alison Hiles, Michael Hunt and Stuart Pat Lawlor, Betty Watt. Thompson the event

Esh Leaves Page 15 July 2007 organisers and Tates Security This complimented the work Langley Park Primary Services the main sponsor in school by Mrs. Davis, Mrs. School’s Grand Summer are delighted to announce Connell, the children and a Fete that a record breaking number of parent volunteers amount of £4200.00 has been as they researched the village On Saturday 16th June 2007, raised for the Willowburn of Esh. Using old records, Langley Park Primary School Hospice. They would like to census returns and the held its „Grand Summer Fete‟. thank everyone who Internet the children produced Despite a week of rain, spirits contributed to this record a remarkable display which were high and staff, parents breaking event. culminated in a two day and pupils remained presentation in the optimistic that the sun would form of written shine and the fete would not evidence, artefacts be „rained off‟. The wishful and photographs. thinking paid off and the day The Saturday proved to be dry, with morning viewing occasional bouts of sunshine, was very well mostly from the sunny smiles supported by of families having lots of fun! parents, relatives, friends and Durham FM DJs Craig and residents in the Kyle covered the fete on air village. during their Saturday show. They both seemed to be Wicked Witch Golf Society Continuing our particularly enjoying the NEWS FROM THE History theme this term, we exciting „Birds of Prey‟ SCHOOLS were delighted to welcome display, which was sponsored Alan Jones from Beamish by the Parish Council. Other Esh Church of England Museum who provided a activities included hook a Primary School. superb workshop on local duck, bouncy castles, mug history which further painting, blow tattoos, a BBQ, Head Teacher :- Mr.M.Urwin extended the knowledge and a human slot machine and interest of the children. much, much more! The Past in the Present. At this time of the year we Adults and children alike We come once again towards welcome new pupils for visits enjoyed their afternoon and the end of a very tiring but to their „new‟ school which Langley Park Primary School exciting time at Esh Church of they start in September and Friends of the School, who England Primary School up in we bid farewell to our Y6 organised the day were Esh Village. pupils who are leaving for delighted so many supported pastures new. In addition we the annual event. The The older pupils have visited are increasing the hours of Friends of the School would Beamish Museum to take part our part-time teaching staff to like to thank Elite Building in the May Day celebrations provide a greater pupil and The Parish Council, who and demonstrated their skills teacher ratio. sponsored the fete. They at May Pole dancing. The would also like to extend practice sessions in school Another school year comes to thanks to local businesses were great fun and the a close and like every other who generously donated performance on the day was school in the country we are raffle prizes and vouchers; extremely well received by already prepared for the new Metroland, Beamish, the countless visitors year ahead. Diggerland, Legoland, The intrigued at this old custom. Spar, CO-Op. Thanks also to all those who attended the fete despite the cloudy Esh Leaves Page 16 July 2007 weather! The day was a however, had a petrol huge success and we are pump installed; it stood already looking forward the on a concrete pedestal next one! So if you weren‟t where he stood to part of the fun this time, don‟t operate it by pulling a miss it next year as its going handle to and fro to fill to be even bigger and better a measuring glass than this one! above. He then released the petrol to Music Mania flow into the vehicle.

Music Mania took place on musical workshops, led by As was the custom, families Thursday 28th June at established musicians and usually went for a walk on Fyndoune Community School performers from throughout Sunday evenings in the and was organised by the England. The workshops summer and we often sat on music teachers from Langley included Samba Band, the opposite side of the road Park Primary School, Clarinets, Boomwhackers, to watch Ben operating the Sacriston Junior School and Gospel Singing, Pop pump. It was only after World staff at Fyndoune Community songwriting, African Singing, War 11 that I really got to College. After submitting an Ukulele, African Drumming, know him and his son Ron application bid, funding for Composition and Tin whistles. well; this was after the bakery this project was successfully Music Mania was a „taster for which I worked moved to procured from „Awards for All‟ day‟ for pupils of all abilities Langley Park. and without this funding, this and backgrounds and it gave unique music project would pupils the chance to Thus I was often in the not have been possible. experience music from a garage and in the far corner range of exciting and stood an old car, which I later unusual genres. learned was a 1910 Staff and pupils LANCHESTER, which old thoroughly enjoyed BEN had previously used as this wonderful a taxi. Old tyres were opportunity and stacked on the roof rack and music making the rear of the car was full of experience. So, on odds and ends. When I got Thursday 28th June into the driving seat I found the hills really were that to release the steering alive with the sound wheel a lever had to put it in a of music! vertical position then the Music Mania involved six steering wheel had to be schools from a cluster group Mrs Mitchell-Barrett pulled back into position in our local area and over two Langley Park Primary School when you were seated. It hundred pupils were involved Friends of the School was quite different to the type in the „big day‟. Pupils from of car I was accustomed to; Langley Park, Sacriston MR BEN NEWTON for example it had a „WICK Junior School, Witton Gilbert, TYPE‟ carburettor through St Bedes, Edmondsley and Ben Newton started a garage which petrol evaporated from Fyndoune all had the chance business at Kaysburn @ the rear of the car to the o make sweet music together. 1920 in an Ex 1914-18 Army engine. It also had flat steel The pupils involved in the hut. At the time it was the valve springs NOT cell project ranged from Year 5-7 custom to serve petrol in 2 springs as we knew. and all pupils had the gallon steel cans with the opportunity to take part in a petrol companys‟ name His son RON had mentioned selection of ten exciting embossed on the side. Ben about selling the

Esh Leaves Page 17 July 2007

LANCHESTER, but Old Ben said „NO‟; it was his car! However in 1960 it was agreed to sell and the photograph shows the LANCHESTER alongside the JAGUAR belonging to Doctor R Rutherford standing outside the garage prior to going away. Ben is pictured in his top hat (which he wore when driving the taxi) together with his son Ron. The LANCHESTER was bought by MR. SKILBECK who many people will remember as a local Driving Test Examiner. Ron and Ben with the Jaguar on the left and the Lanchester In 1975 I was talking to him outside his home in before just how close we are brought the American greys Whitesmocks, Durham and in Durham to some of the in because they were friendly as I knew he had bought the most wonderful wild and ornamental and LANCHESTER I queried countryside. interesting. Unfortunately, about it. He told me that he for a number of complicated had paid £200 for it and a In the last week I have reasons, which we are still year after he bought it he had accidentally come across learning more about, their it running at the Lanchester three different red squirrels presence has led to a Agricultural Show. He also just going about their daily dramatic decline in our native informed me that he search for food. This reds and may result in their exchanged it for a reminded me that there were becoming extinct, even with „WOLSELEY SIDDELEY‟ red squirrels between all the effort that is being put from down the country and Langley Park and Quebec as in for protection. that the LANCHESTER had recently as 1985. Now we gone to America and was have grey squirrels and the sold for £3000! nearest Reds are probably those at Killhope or around Around the same time Ron Wallington Hall. People married and had a bungalow often report sightings of Reds built next to the garage but which turn out to be reddish- his father Ben died before the coloured Greys. If you are bungalow was completed. looking out for them, they are Ron also died a few years distinguishable because reds later from lung cancer. are smaller, with rounder faces, usually fluffier and with Ronald Dover very definite tufted tips to ALISON’S WILDLIFE their ears – just like Beatrix CORNER Potter‟s Squirrel Nutkin

illustrations, in fact. I am lucky enough to have The conflict between red and Red Squirrel just started a job which grey squirrels is a very sad entails driving around the result of unintentional human The Northumberland Wildlife lanes and farm tracks of interference. In the 18th and Trust has a Red Squirrel Northumberland. This has 19th century the owners of team who are very keen to made me realise as never large houses and zoos receive reports of sightings of Esh Leaves Page 18 July 2007 red squirrels, with a map ones disappearing (when did A cross from a baby pink reference and information as you last see a pterodactyl fly Ta really deep red rose. to whether they were alive or past?!). dead (usually road kill, Perhaps the only problem is Now wouldn‟t you think at her unfortunately) or whether you that we are accelerating the age thought they looked poorly rate of change and mixing She gone a bit over the top (generally slow and snuffly). and matching wildlife all over And before it gets any worse Some of the Reds are the world, while removing wild She really should go for the catching squirrel pox from the habitats fast to make human chop. Greys, which are hardly beings more comfortable. affected by it, and becoming What it is to be the dominant Have a different hair cut seriously ill and even dying. species! And a nice soft shade of It is very important to map the beige progress of this disease to try Alison It would be much more to do something about it. flattering WATTS WORDS OF And look well for her age. A very similar situation WISDOM occurred in Australia when But Annie‟s a real old raver people introduced rabbits and Walking Wonderland And lives life to the full put the indigenous kangaroos So I‟ll just do her a favour in danger. These two To walk through a wood full of And tell her she‟s far from examples are very obvious bluebells dull. and well-known but it is less The early dew scent in the air realised that we are Primroses violets and Betty Watt constantly putting the snowdrops ONE HUNDRED YEARS „balance of nature‟ at risk in Makes you feel glad to be this sort of way. AT BLACKBURN FARM there

Every time we introduce a The sweet song of birds in The Moralee family have just new species of plant into our the tree tops celebrated 100 years of garden, we not only may be Making new nests for their farming at Blackburn Farm. bringing in plant diseases and young Many changes have possibly small creatures that Echoing right through the happened over the years, threaten our native species woodland gone are the days of water but we may also be saddling Planning for new ones to from the well, milking cows by ourselves with something as come. hand and delivering milk intrusive as Japanese Dock. round Langley Park with This is a nightmare to Spring is the season horse and cart. Nicholas, eradicate and smothers When everythings new everything else in the garden, Lambs foals and chickens easily spreading into Just to mention a few neighbouring fields and woodland. The beautiful The miracle of nature Rhododendron is another Is a gift from up above one. Brought in from the Because its blessed Himalayas, it romps merrily By Jesus Christ Milkfloat across our hillsides and His power and his love smothers (and poisons) recently retired, looks with pride and pleasure to the everything in its way! Bad Hair Day fourth generation of Leo and Andrew continuing with the On the other hand, nature is Annie‟s been having her hair always changing, with new farm business. Since taking dyed over they have updated the species developing and old And what a colour she close Esh Leaves Page 19 July 2007 farm steading also the two itself and off-site. provide new habitats for farm houses and converted Opportunities include driving wildlife. the old stone buildings into guests to and from the three dwellings. Hospice in your own car or The draft proposal: Roll on the next hundred the Hospice minibus, driving Clear the lower part of years! the shops van, helping in our the site of rubbish. kitchen, working in our (This is mainly debris extensive gardens, from collapsed allotment administrative help in the sheds and fencing). offices or helping at Create one arge scrape fundraising events. (shallow pond) close to the river at the eastern Of local interest, the Hospice end of the site to Shop at Langley Park is encourage wildlife such always in need of more as frogs, newts and Andrew & Leo tending volunteers to help. It has a dragonflies. their flock friendly team of dedicated Create three smaller volunteers and there is scrapes close to the supervision, training and ST CUTHBERT’S river at the western end support. Please pop in and HOSPICE of the site. pick up an application pack. St Cuthbert‟s Hospice is a Extend the existing path All money raised goes to help voluntary Hospice helping to make a circular route run vital services at the people diagnosed with life- around the allotments Hospice. threatening, progressive and tie in with the path illness and their families in leading up-stream If you would like to join our the Durham and Chester-le- Erect an information team, and have some time to Street areas. Based in the board giving details spare to commit, we would Merryoaks area of Durham about the wetland area. like to hear from you. Please City, we aim to reduce the contact Paul Forster at the distress associated with the Hopefully this project would Hospice on 0191 386 1170 illness by helping with the create an area down by the for a volunteer pack which medical, practical, emotional river which could be enjoyed gives more details of our and spiritual needs of the by the community as well as volunteer opportunities and person diagnosed and being beneficial to wildlife. an application form. providing support for the families. Last September we Those Allotments that are in opened a purpose built In- use could still be used, only Patient Unit with ten beds to the part of the area closest complement our Day Care to the river would need to be facility. This year we will be incorporated into the project. re-developing and improving Derwentshire District Council have been consulted and our Day Care facilities to ensure the very best care and are presently considering the support is available for ST. Cuthberts Hospice proposal. patients and their families. THE WORKING ON THE We would like your views, WEAR PROJECT please send any comments We could not provide this specialised service to our The Working on the Wear or suggestions concerning clients without the help of our Project would like to create these proposals to: Jacqui volunteers. There are many one or more wetland areas at McHugh, Working on the ways in which volunteers can Langley Park, Stobbilee Wear Project Officer, Natural help us, both in the Hospice Allotments. This would England, The Quadrant, Newburn Riverside, Esh Leaves Page 20 July 2007

Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE15 This money bought a Wound LAST ORDERS 8NZ. Tel :0191 2293330 Mapping Device, one of three for University Hospital. It was a lovely spring day Working on the Wear is a We are grateful to John when I drove up to the Cross partnership between the Foster for donating part of the Keys in Esh village earlier this River Wear Environmental proceeds of his book to the year to speak to the landlord Trust, the Environment Friends and are pleased that of this grand old pub, and Agency and Natural sales are going well. there he was out in the England. Working on the Other gifts include a brilliant sunshine proudly Wear is part of the Mineral Courtyard garden at County holding his beautiful little Valleys Project led by Hospital. This will provide a granddaughter, with a broad Natural England supported quiet place to sit for patients smile that said it all. I had by Heritage Lottery Fund. and visitors. called for a chat with Edwin We made Pickersgill about the surprise donations to news that he and his wife Hospitals Devina were about to leave Radio, the Cross Keys for good. Christmas gifts to Earls House patients. Philip Nixon will show his film of Northumbria in the Methodist Map giving a rough guide to the position of the Church Hall on

proposed wetland areas and footpath. Friday October th The Cross Keys at old Esh village in Crown Copyright Reserved. Licence Number: LA- 27 at 7.00p.m. 2006 © Terry T. Chilton 100025878 Philip is a This popular couple, moved professional photographer to this grand old English pub FRIENDS OF DURHAM and always provides an in 1992 from Royal Oak at HOSPITALS LANGLEY entertaining evening. Cornsay Colliery where they PARK BRANCH We always welcome visitors had been the proprietors and new members to our since 1983. Due to the warm At the A.G.M. the Chairman meetings and events. and friendly atmosphere they reported that this had been a created, along with their very successful year. Look out for posters. excellent home made food, Two concerts, a Cream tea, they attracted a wide variety Cosmetic Party and some Contacts – Maud Lowdon 373 of regular and loyal interesting speakers had 1662 and Brenda Moralee customers, and indeed, many contributed to raising £1006. 373 1356. friends. As we talked Edwin Lynn Dumighan told me about the many long had again hours and hard work in completed the running a pub, and that most Great North people don‟t realise how tiring Run, this year it can be, but, he also told me being how much he had enjoyed his sponsored for time at the Cross Keys, and the Friends she about the many friends he raised £430, a had made over the years, magnificent adding, „I wouldn‟t have

effort. A Cream Tea raising funds for Friends of the Hospital missed it for the world‟.

Esh Leaves Page 21 July 2007

But, now it was time to move give up smoking not only to on to the much less dramatically improve their demanding occupation of own health but also those semi-retirement. „Mind you, around them who suffer the after such an active life I THERE’S NEVER BEEN A impact of breathing second- couldn‟t just stop and do BETTER TIME TO GIVE UP hand smoke. nothing at all‟, Edwin said. SMOKING! Apart from looking after his “I am urging smokers to little grandchildren he told me Smokers across County seriously consider the there were a few other Durham and Darlington are benefits of giving up smoking” projects he had in mind for being reminded that there‟s their home in Esh Winning. never been a better time to If you would like help and give up smoking since the support to quit smoking you So, on the evening of Smoke Free legislation came can search for one to one, Thursday May 10th, 2007, in into effect across England on group and drop-in quit the lounge/dining room of the Sunday 1 July 2007. smoking sessions being held Cross Keys Edwin took his in community centres, very last orders before From that date smoking is libraries, pharmacies, GP leaving the licensing trade for banned in all enclosed public surgeries, health clinics and good. spaces including work places, other places across County pubs, clubs and restaurants. Durham and Darlington by Yet, the gentleman who has visiting www.health- taken over the Cross Keys is Dianne Woodall, Tobacco promotion.cdd.nhs.uk no stranger to the area. Control Co-ordinator for There are a number of Many people will remember County Durham and opportunities to attend stop Barry Gunn, the very likeable Darlington Primary Care smoking sessions or get former landlord of the Trusts said:- advice on quitting across Travellers Rest, Witton County Durham and Gilbert. We wish him well at “There has never been more Darlington as follows: the Cross Keys however, opportunities and support for there is no doubt Edwin and smokers wanting to quit Derwentside Devina will be a much missed across County Durham and couple, and we wish them Darlington. The PCT‟s Tuesday evening 6pm, every possible happiness in smoking cessation services Derwentside College, Consett their future. are as busy as ever providing (ongoing) one to one advice, group Saturday morning 9.30 - Terry Chilton. sessions, drop-in sessions 10.30am Louisa Centre, and even Saturday Stanley (ongoing) morning sessions to Saturday afternoon 12noon - provide the best possible 1.30pm, Consett Rugby Club support for smokers.” (starts 2 June 2007) Dr Tricia Cresswell, Various Pharmacies offer Director of Public Health evening and Saturday for County Durham and morning support sessions. Darlington PCTs added: Tel (01207) 523 628 for full “The Smoke Free details of all services legislation is one of the most important pieces of Durham and Chester-le- Edwin & Devina Pickersgill legislation to impact on Street

Edwin and Devina would the health of the people like to thank all their friends of this country for decades. Monday morning 9.30 - and customers for their “Smokers should really see 11am, Chester-le-Street support over many years. this as the spur they need to Library (ongoing) Esh Leaves Page 22 July 2007

Monday evening 6.00 - 7pm, available for inspection in the Mrs Smith Volunteer Chester-le-Street Library Parish Room, at the times Of The Year (more in (ongoing) listed on the notices, from the next edition) Saturday morning 10 - now until 10th August 11.30am, Chester-le-Street 2007. Contact 0191 Library (ongoing) 3736687 for more Saturday morning 10 - details. 11.30am, St Nicholas Church Hall, Market Place, Durham As part of the (ongoing) submission will be a Various Pharmacies offer summary of the evening and Saturday accounts for the morning support sessions. year. These were set out in more detail in Contact the smoking Esh Leaves Extra cessation service in your area May 2007. for more information: Derwentside Stop Smoking Langley Park Mrs Alma Smith receives her Community Service - 01207 523628 Baptist’s Association Volunteer of the year award Annual holiday Bible Club Wordgram Answers WORDGRAM

This year the Bible Club will AMUSEMENTS, BEACH, Stuart Harris has kindly be held between Monday- BEACHBALL, BUCKETS, compiled the following holiday DECKCHAIRS, DONKEYS, FISH & Friday 13th-17th August from WORDGRAM. CHIPS, FISHING, ICECREAM, 10:30 a.m. to noon each day. JETSKI, LOUNGERS, B A L L F J E S K I B E A C H All children between 6 and 10 PARAGLIDING, POSTCARDS, F I E U W U G N M I K E S P I years of age, of all Faiths SANDCASTLES, SEA, SPADES, I S A N D C A S T L E S I A S SUNSHINE, SWIMMING S P I D E K C W A R E D T R H or none, are welcome. The H A B E S E C I C E C R E A M day begins with games, A L E S E T I M I K E C B G I quizzes, craft and a Bible ADVERTISEMENTS N D A M U S E M E N T S S L J story. There is a team D E C A D S C I J E T S K I W competition as well as an C V H W D C H N H I J M W D S opportunity to win personal BECON TILING H E L L O U N G E R S S A I D I C E S N W D V U K I O M N D points and prizes. It is Floor & Wall Tiling P I K E K E Y F I S H I N G S completely FREE and is held First Class Work Guaranteed S P A D E S G B U I K E A D X in the Baptist Church Hall, Free Estimates W E R E Y E S T E R D R Y W C Thomas St. The finale is the A S D E S U N S H I N E S U N prize-giving ceremony to Tel: 01913739803

which parents are invited. All Mobile: 07872308734 STOP PRESS our leaders have many years of experience with Children, Parish Council Annual have been vetted by the Audit 2006/07 FREE Confidential appropriate police authority and work according to the WELLNESS EVALUATION The Parish Council‟s Old or young, male or female, Church's child protection accounts for 2006/07 will be there is nothing more policy. So, if you have submitted to the District important than good health and children of the right age Auditor for approval in mid general wellbeing. group, or know of any who August 2007. Residents have might enjoy the club, do bring Lifestyle – Healthy Eating – already been advised of the them along - no prior booking Energy audit by way of public notices necessary! displayed at various locations Call Julia - 01913710696 to book throughout the Parish. The Rev. Alan Brunton accounts are currently Esh Leaves Page 23 July 2007

SPAR Convenience Foodstore

In store Bakery, Sandwiches, Hot & Cold Food

Quality produce & Fresh Foods Home Manager Sharon Smith Off Licence, Newspapers & Magazines, Lottery, 22 bed Residential unit DVD Rental, Mobile Phone Top Up & all utility bills can be paid. 24 bedded EMI unit to cater for dementia clients Special Offers throughout the Store

Open 6am -10pm 7 days a week Front street, Langley Park, Durham, County Durham, DH7 9YR Telephone 01913731373

Telephone: 01913735599 Fax: 01913732674 S & J Taxis

Langley Park

Friendly & Reliable Service at Very Olivers Tree Services Ltd

Unit 3, Langley Park Tel: 0191 3739771 Competitive Prices

Industrial Estate, Fax: 0191 373 9772

Witton Gilbert, Email: Telephone 01913736899 Durham, [email protected] DH7 6TX.

Up to 4, 6 or 8 seat available

The secret of a beautiful lawn and it costs less than DIY!

A healthier GREENER lawn in 4 easy steps.

Costs from as little as £13.00 per application.

 FREEPHONE 

0800 1695009

Esh Leaves Page 24 July 2007

Stuart Wright

Funeral Service, Durham

COMPLETE FUNERAL & MONUMENTAL SERVICE PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24 HOUR SERVICE

0191 373 3700 or 0191 370 0015 or 0191 386 3850 43 Front Street 3 Front Street 23 Marshall Terrace Langley Park Pelton Gilesgate Durham Chester Le Street Durham DH7 9SA DH2 1DB DH1 2HX www.stuartwrightfunerals.co.uk

PARK FLOORING 47c Front Street, Langley Park, Co. Durham DH7 9XB Langley Park Tel: 0191 3739947

Fish Shop CARPETS AND VINYLS FOR EVERY ROOM

Fresh Fish and Chips MEASURING AND FITTING SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES 9 Quebec Street CONTRACT AND DOMESTIC FLOORING SPECIALISTS

Telephone 3731474

Country Style 14 Quebec Street Langley Park Durham DH7 9XA

Telephone: 01913731733 or 01913731350

Fruiter and Florist, Flowers for all Occasions.

Tony Campbell MALLORD LTD VILLAGE JOINERY

Dairyman Plumbing, Heating & KITCHENS FITTED Gas Services (KITCHEN DESIGN SERVICE

(Milk, Eggs, Pop, Complete Heating Systems, AVAILABLE) Cream, +Organic Milk) Condensing Combi Boilers, Gas UPVC DOORS AND WINDOWS WARDROBES Cookers & Fires, Bathroom Door to Door DOOR HANGING SERVICE Suites, ALL JOINERY WORK deliveries All domestic plumbing UNDERTAKEN

23 Lilian Terrace Telephone 01913730244 or Telephone Kenny on: Langley Park 07876445472 0191 3739895 Durham NO CALL-OUT CHARGE FOR FREE ESTIMATE Corgi Registered – No 220821 DH7 9YF Member of Durham County Council Tel:0191 3732825 registered traders scheme

Esh Leaves Page 25 July 2007

N.J.C. WROUGHT IRON Cross Keys Inn Proprietor Barry Gunn GATES ~ RAILINGS ~ HANDRAILS ~ SECURITY GRILLES Esh Village, Durham LIGHT STEEL FABRICATION New opening hours for food Mon-closed GATE REPAIRS AND Mon to Thurs 5:30pm – 9:00pm Tue-Fri open 9.00am-5.00pm ALTERATIONS LARGE OR SMALL Fri 5:30pm– 9:30pm Sat open 8.30am-3.00pm MOBILE WELDING SERVICE Sat 6:30pm – 9:30pm

DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE Sun 7:00pm – 9:30pm Julie Wordingham 10 Quebec Street, Langley Park FREE ESTIMATES Lunches served every day

Durham DH7 9XA Tel: 0191 3739714 OR 12pm – 2pm Tel: 0191 3731959 07763 457 542 Tel 0191 3731279

Alan Madrell Coach Tours

Top Quality Beef, Pork, Lamb and Poultry at knock out prices Watch out for our weekly freezer fillers and special offer

Now selling bread, sandwiches , pies and pasties Llandudno & Snowdonia 6th -10th August £160 Why not try our large selection of barbecue products

Lincolnshire & Tel: 01913731408 Skegness Illuminations th th 14 -17 September £135

Blackpool Illuminations 20th- 22nd October £120 DAY TRIPS 11th July Thornton-le-Dale £8 1st August Blackpool £10 13th August Bridlington £10 Neil Aplin th 29 August Bury Market £10 th Independent Mortgage Broker 11 Sept Windermere £9 15 Elemore Close Tel 0191 373 7637 0191 3733145 Langley Park Mobile 07791 559468 3 Ivy Terrace Langley Park DH7 9FL E Mail: [email protected]

Esh Leaves Page 26 July 2007

C & C Campbell Computer Problems? Plumbing & Heating No Fix – No Fee Home and Business Users Engineers Tel: 0191 3921238 Mob: 07872 961249

Broadband / Wireless Installation

Virus / Spyware Removal & Prevention Office: 0191 373 1313 12480 Hardware / Software Support Craig: 07799 888 032 Data Recovery & IT Training Gas in TROJAN COMPUTERS

Safe Hands support@trojan -computers.co.uk www.trojan -computers.co.uk

Embodied Garments, Sports Wear, Screen Printing

Bouncy Castle Hire, Inflatable Slide

For details contact Karen or John On 07791675241 or 0191 3734374

Esh Leaves Page 27 July 2007

BILL WAITING FOR HIS FIRST DISASTER STRIKES IN RISING FROM THE ASHES CUSTOMER AT HIS WOODSIDE FARM BILL'S NEXT REMISES 1 YEAR LATER PREMISES - VALENTINE'S DAY 1988 IN HEDLEY TERRACE

FASTFIT TYRES FTL LANGLEY

Car, Light Truck & Farm Tyres Car Servicing, Repair, MOT preparation & now MOT Testing Bill Johnston Langley Park 0191 373 3501 We don’t make a song and dance about our prices!

ddd BUIL DING WORKS COMPLETED BILL AND STAFF NEXT TO THE ANY TRUTH IN THE RUMOUR WITH THE LATER ADDITION OF NEW MOT BAY THAT BILL IS LOOKING FOR A CAR PARKING AREA AND BIGGER PREMISES TO DEAL TEMPORARY OFFICE WITH MORE MOT TESTS?

Esh Leaves Page 28 July 2007