Issue No 3 Volume 9 Lanchester, March 2008 For contact information, see page 2 CLIFF HUDSPITH CRIME IN RETIRES VILLAGE Cliff Hudspith, Village LEAD TWO Handyman, or to give him his correct title, THIEVES YOUTHS Maintenance Operative, On 5th March, 3 people ARRESTED retires at the end of March. from Lanchester were Cliff has spent 11 happy arrested in connection It was previously reported years with the Parish with the thefts of lead from that two men were Council. Prior to this, he premises in the village. assaulted on Front Street spent 34 years in the The three people aged 20, on Lanchester 16th June Prison Service, joining at 16 and 14 are all from 2007. This was not Durham, transferring to Lanchester. They have reported to the Police but Usk for two years, been interviewed and captured on the CCTV followed by Medomsley bailed for identification and passed to the Police. for 13 years. He then procedures. No lead has PC Hutchison managed to travelled the country in a been recovered from the trace the two victims and recruitment role, finally individuals who cannot persuaded them to returning to Durham, first be named at this time. I provide statements. PC as a Training Manager, would ask that people Hutchison was then able then Security Manager. remain vigilant at all times to arrest two youths in Cliff intends to spend his as the most recent connection with the second retirement on DIY attempted theft of lead attack. One of the two in his home, and being was at a garage in Foxhills youths was later charged even more involved with Crescent last week. with two assaults and his family. Insp Andrew McConnell recently pleaded guilty at Consett Magistrates Court. The case was ELECTION NEW BELLS adjourned until the 5th of March, when the PUBLIC FOR sixteen year old from Burnhope was given four MEETING CHURCH months’ imprisonment. As you probably know, good opportunity for you the District Councils are to ask them about their STABBING being merged with policies and those of their AT MANOR Durham County Council parties. to form one ‘unitary You might want to ask for GRANGE authority’ for the whole example about car parking Further to our previous of the county. There will or about conservation, article on this bizarre be elections for the new development control or case, the charges were authority councillors devolving powers, the due to be put before Mr on May 1st. Also, link bus or litter collection, Constantine on 14th prospective councillors teenagers or …etc. March, but as he has are more likely to make The candidates will be changed his legal commitments before an encouraged to give representation, his election than afterwards. straightforward answers barrister, Tony Davis, Lanchester Partnership is to questions, but has only recently been arranging a public questioners should not handed ’the brief’. meeting in the Community be unduly aggressive. Judge Richard Lowden Centre at 7.30 pm on Afterwards, there will be Andrew Mills and Tom Blyth, from Hayward Mills agreed to adjourn the Friday 11th April to which time for coffee and Associates in Nottingham, hauling one of the two plea hearing and bailed it is inviting all of the conversations. All will additional tenor bells from their van to Mr Constantine to Lanchester election be very welcome to All Saints’ Parish Church in the village return to court on March candidates. It will be a attend. Article and more pictures on page 4 31st. The Village Voice Page 1 Dear THE VILLAGE IT'S ALL Village.... VOICE ABOUT PEOPLE

The views expressed in letters to the editor are not necessarily those of the newspaper, the to Gordon as the Dear Sir, editor or persons working for members of the family My daughter Sarah, the newspaper. The editor DELIVERERS retains the right to cut or wished. goes to Lanchester EP otherwise amend any letter Thanks are also due to Primary School and is NEEDED published. Letters must contain your name, address and the Derwentside a member of Durham The Village Voice in case of holidays or telephone no., all of which Funeral Service, to Stage School and will may be withheld at your urgently needs some emergencies. If you request. Crinnions for their be taking part in the replacement volunteer are willing to help your generous help with Disco Inferno Show in Dear Sir, deliverers to cover the local community catering, to Tiger Lily May. The stage On the unexpected Manor Grange and Lee newspaper, please Florists and to the school have asked death of Gordon Hill Court areas of the contact our Steward and staff of whether anyone Reed, his wife Betty Village and would also Distribution Manager, Lanchester Club for all would be able to and her family wish like standby deliverers Mike Stoddart on of their help. obtain any old but to convey their who could do the job 520291. Donations in lieu of wearable clothing that heartfelt thanks to flowers were for might be thrown out. family, friends and the British Heart They are particularly neighbours for their Foundation and have looking for 70’s items KILLER BEES help, support and reached a total of £1000 such as platforms, condolences and for ATTACK IVESTON to date. wedges, satin the abundance of the We continue to be trousers, hot pants, Residents of Iveston Residents were warned cards and the overwhelmed at the lurex items, Afghan and Stony Heap woke to stay indoors from flowers that were huge response from coats etc. They are up on March 13th to 9.00 am until 2.30 pm. received. everyone and at the also collecting items find yellow posters The phone numbers of Particular thanks go evidence of people’s that may be suitable displayed around BBC Newcastle and the to Canon Spence for high regard that were for the Decades their neighbourhoods Village Voice were his care and support, provided for Gordon. concert, so any era warning them of provided. On the together with the H E Reed from 1910’s onwards, “Operation Killer bottom of the posters very appropriate 32 Brookview including hats and Bees”. There was to the name of the official funeral service and Lanchester accessories. be a widespread aerial government agency tribute he provided Bridesmaids’ dresses spraying later on that was listed: Annfield and men’s suits day to eradicate the Pest Removal TTTOOO Dear Sir, always come in handy killer bee population Information Line (For CONTAAACT We wish to thank as do items like that had made its way Outside Operations Canon Spence and platform valences into the area. Listings). THE Canon Waterhouse for from old bedding, or VILLAGE the time and effort anything where we VVVOICE that they gave when could use the fabric or COMMUNITY DRAW visiting in hospital trimming. By email: and for their prayers Please contact- The winning number in is 91. The draw was lanchestervillagevoice during Mrs Rafferty’s Mrs Linda the Community Draw for made by Mr. F Redfearn @yahoo.co.uk (please recent illness. Also Messenger, the month of February of Computer for All. include Village Voice in many thanks to friends 55 Cypress Park, the Subject line) for their flowers, Esh Winning, Alan Madrell Coach Tours By post: cards and many kind Durham The Village Voice, c/o thoughts. DH7 9JD Lanchester Community Mrs Noreen Rafferty Telephone 0191 Centre, Newbiggen and family. 3735922 Lane, Lanchester, April 19th - 26th Shanklin Isle of DH7 0JQ Wight £290 Telephone enquiries: ADVERTISERS June 6th - 9th Great Yarmouth & (01207) 520559 Norfolk Broads £160 To advertise: PLEASE NOTE Contact John Hurran, For all your advertising needs, please contact: DAY TRIPS Advertising Manager, John Hurran, Advertising Manager, Wed 16th April Skipton Market £10 by post at the above c/o Lanchester Community Centre, Wed 14th May Heighleygate & address. Newbiggen Lane, Lanchester, DH7 0JQ Boundary Mill £8 Telephone: (01207) Telephone: (01207) 520288 Sun 25th May Morecambe £12 520288 Email: [email protected] Email: villagevoice To book ring 0191 3733145 [email protected] We are happy to do your artwork 3 Ivy Terrace Langley Park Durham DH7 9XW The Village Voice Page 2 HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANN

Ann Hunter presents this year. celebrated her They all readily agreed seventieth birthday in to this simple request fine style earlier this from Ann. Her friend year. Ann, who is an of many years and ex-theatre nurse from colleague from the Briardene, held her hospital, Mrs Pat seventieth birthday Ramshaw, arranged a bash in the Lanchester raffle which raised one Social Club on the 23rd hundred and seventy of February. It was five pounds which was attended by over 100 added to the total relatives and guests making a staggering and the Willow Burn one thousand pounds Hospice at Maiden for the charity. Ann Law benefited from wishes to thank all of this event. the people who Ann asked the guests contributed to making if they would like to this an excellent make a financial birthday which also donation to the Willow helped Willow Burn Burn Hospice instead Hospice with such a of giving her birthday good amount. Ann Hunter with the wonderful donations she received for Willow Burn Hospice

Dave Donnelly Witbank Garage Lanchester Co. Durham DH7 0HS 01207 529192 Now at new location, Hallgarth Terrace, Lanchester

As fresh HOPEFULLY you will weather improves children’s activities. As a ..... have received an later in the year and Looking ahead to Have you forgotten how colourful “Easter card” from the hopefully activities September we intend and “nice to touch” your carpets churches together in which will be of holding a pamper day used to be? Burnhope and interest to you and for all those breathing With Rainbow International, your carpets Lanchester, and on your family and be of a sigh of relief after are really deep down clean, brighter and the back will have benefit to the the long summer soft. They smell as fresh as a daisy. read about the HOPE community, OUR holidays have We clean, care for and restore your TED UNDER LICENCE initiative. All of the community. finished. If you have, carpets, rugs and upholstery and the churches are This event has the or know of, a much more. involved in our backing of the community based Do you need your Patios & Drives villages, towns and government, of the need we would love to power-washing? Save yourself the hard work cities. This is very police, of the media hear from you, and and let us do it for you. Simply call ...... much about the and of your local there will be a churches reaching out church. suggestion box in the Rainbow International to help and make a Some ideas, which post office for your Durham & Stanley difference in the place have been proposed, ideas. So watch this 01207 501730 in which they live. are a tea-dance in the space and your local Unit 5A Park Road South Ind. Est. There will be a number Social club, a ‘be a church notice board to FRANCHISE OWNED & OPERA A Blackhill Consett DH8 5PY of events going on good neighbour’ see what is happening Email: [email protected] particularly as the scheme, and various in our village. Web: www.rainbow-int.co.uk APOLOGY Due to pressure of work , some guests did not receive an invitation to the Village Voice thank you event last month. We sincerely apologise for this oversight. The Village Voice Page 3 NEW BELLS FOR THE PARISH CHURCH continued from page 1

Olga Walker (Tower Captain), Andrew Mills, Tony Blyth, both of Hayward Mills Associates, Jennifer Smith, Bell Ringer, Billy Crozier, Bell Ringer, pose with one of the new bells prior to raising it into position One of the bells being hoisted carefully to its final position in the belfry

View of one of the bells on the final phase of its journey into the belfry

Maiden Law, Near Lanchester The day of March 17th men, Andrew Mills Discounted baby places and sibling discounts are now was a wonderful and and Tom Blyth from available at Littlefeet historic day for All the Hayward Mills Saints Parish Church in Associates, who are Our seven guarantees ensure your child is safe and secure, the village. At about based in Nottingham. happy, well fed and intellectually stimulated 9.30 am two new bells Now that the church We also offer Free Nursery Education arrived in a van on the has an eight bell tower final leg of their journey extra Bell Ringers are Children age 3 (subject to various Government guidlines) from Nottingham, needed. Training will are eligible for free nursery education. Contact us for free having been previously be given to those leaflet giving full details cast in Holland by Royal who do not have the We have a continuous improvement policy and work closely Eijsbouts. necessary experience. An anonymous donor If you are interested, with Durham County Council Children & Young People has paid for these two please telephone the Services additional tenor bells, Tower Captain, Olga Come & look around our friendly & homely Children’s Day Nursery so the church now has Walker on 01740 Call Anna or Kristy to arrange your visit: a total of eight bells in 621865 who will be 01207 528581 the bell tower. pleased to answer any Have a look at our Nursery website The installation was questions that you www.littlefeetnursery.co.uk carried out by two might have. The Village Voice Page 4 CONSERVATION WORK LANCHESTER PLUMBING & HEATING Following a very on Saturday 8th March. nutrient levels and are CORGI & OFTEC REGISTERED ENGINEER successful day of The work was unable to compete FROM A LEAKING TAP TO COMPLETE CENTRAL conservation work at organised by Coralie with the strong growth HEATING INSTALLATION Durham Wildlife Trust Dickinson, the of the grass. The NO JOB TOO SMALL Nature Reserve at Countryside Ranger, County Council FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE OR FREE ADVICE Malton last month, in and her colleague provided the robust WITH NO CALL OUT CHARGE CALL BARRY ON 01207 528139 OR 077 17 17 47 39 March the Lanchester Deborah Ferguson, and mower used and all the Wildlife Group and was to cut rough grass other tools needed. some other willing adjacent to the track and The rain held off and a ANDREW LAVIN volunteers helped the rake it off. This clearance well earned picnic WALL AND FLOOR TILING County Council with will allow delicate wild lunch was taken in a their work on the flowers like the ‘greater sheltered spot. It Free estimate/advice Lanchester Valley Walk. butterfly’ and wasn’t until the job Unsociable hours catered for Though the weather ‘twayblade orchids’, had been completed Phone 01207 509587 was less than ideal, which are not common and the volunteers Mobile 07796936080 being windy and in the north-east, to were returning home threatening to rain, a flourish later this year. that the rain started to dozen people turned out These plants like low fall.

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The Village Voice Page 5 LANCHESTER PARISH COUNCIL MEETING 11.03.08 POLICE REPORT This intelligence has been Replacement of the was given by our new received which enables the Maintenance Operative. QUALITY CARE PCSO Daniel Mullen who Police to target the Only two applications had stated that there had been relevant areas in the village. been received, although as FOR YOU AND YOUR HAIR 20 fewer calls last month. He also stated that the the closing date was not Awarded 3 Stars by “Good Salon Guide” Working with the Village Police are liaising with the until 15th March, more may Ring Jeni, Michelle or Natalie Partnership, the police are registered owners of arrive. The Vice-Chairman for an appointment trying the solve the buildings which are vacant Cllr Johnson, together with problem of parking on to ensure the upkeep, Cllrs Paul Jackson and Mrs 01207 520926 double yellow lines security and general Gray agreed to form a which causes much appearance of them and panel to arrange a date inconvenience to other surrounding areas are for interviewing the LILYDALE PET SUPPLIES traffic and pedestrians and maintained to an applicants during the week TEL 01207 529680 is also dangerous. The acceptable standard in beginning 26th March. Mr IT’S WHERE YOUR PET WOULD TELL YOU Police have therefore sent order to deter the attention Hudspith had kindly TO GO a letter to every shopkeeper of acts of anti-social offered to be called out in LOCAL DELIVERY AVAILABLE in the village asking them behaviour and vandalism. an emergency and paid at We are a “FRIEND” of the Community Centre to ask staff to park their Tree Preservation Order hourly rates should a cars further away from the Review Ms Karen Fisher, successor not be found in DELVES PET & EQUINE shopping area in order to the Biodiversity Projects time to take over from him 01207 582082 free short-term spaces and Officer for Derwentside when he retires at the end to advise customers that District Council gave an of the month. The the police are now going to interesting talk to Chairman and Members DAVIES TAXIS monitor this parking Councillors explaining that wished to place on record problem. As from 10th because trees have an their sincere thanks to Mr Fast & Friendly Service March, note will be taken amenity value to the local Hudspith who have given AIRPORT RUNS £17.50 of the registration number landscape, TPO’s are over ten years service. The CONTRACT WORK of cars parked illegally and necessary. There are about most efficient manner in 24 HOUR SERVICE warning given but after 200 in Derwentside and which he has carried out that a ticket will be issued. these are being checked his duties and the resultant 07939 93 35 77 An arrest has been made by an arborcologist for relationship with residents of a person causing evaluation. Ms Fisher is highly commended. problems in the village and explained how TPO’s refer Public Participation this person been to individual trees, groups Procedure A report given imprisoned for four of trees and small by the Working Party was months. CCTV helped as woodlands and even an discussed and it was it gave a perfect image of individual trees in each of decided to postpone any the person involved. these; there is, of course, decisions until the next CCTV also gave a good a lot of paperwork meeting. It was agreed, Tel 01207 521133 Mobile 07831 350698 picture of the people who involved; these orders can however, that a different Ford Road (B6301) Lanchester Durham DH7 0SS tore out the bulbs in the be revoked, revised and procedure was necessary www.lanchesternurseries.co.uk flower beds outside the also new ones issued. for Planning Meetings. shops and this will be County Council Report Lanchester Rugby Club followed up. County Councillor Tom Mr Parry appears to accept down to earth Est 1993 Windows have been Forster was not present to the letter written to him with organics boarded up in the give his usual report on regard to indemnity. FRESH ORGANIC BOXES Lanchester Arms and the matters of mutual interest, NHS Dental Facilities As Supplying locally sourced varieties of organic fruit, empty shop in that building but it was agreed that a there are many people in vegetables, cheese and milk and the handle removed letter should be sent with the village who would FREE DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR from the back door to keep (0191) 3868458 / 07815641645 regard to the lack of double appreciate this facility due out trouble-makers. yellow lines outside the to various reasons such as Web: downtoearthorganics.co.uk This month’s statistics are Community Centre which lack of transport, it was “food as nature intended” 4 house burglaries, 7 thefts, is causing a traffic hazard decided that a 4 of which were lead, 7 and also about the Traffic representative would vehicle nuisance, 13 anti- Warning Speed Sign attend Public Consultation ASPECT social behaviour, 6 criminal which was to be erected Meetings in Stanley to PLUMBING SERVICES damage, 2 traffic accidents at the entrance to the discuss strategy and that and 28 routine calls. village. the Chairman would write PCSO Mullen stressed the Matters Arising: to the Primary Care Service CORGI need for residents to report Replacement of Clerk to Trust. Residents who COLIN LYNAS any incidents they have the Parish Council. An would benefit from an NHS MOBILE 0798 6107593 been subject to or announcement will be Dental Service in 24 Hour call out available witnessed; some good made next month. continued on page 7 The Village Voice Page 6 Lanchester are asked to should write to the maintenance of Parish Newbiggen Lane, wife, family and friends on contact Members stating Department of clock; £500 Willow Burn Lanchester GRANTED the 17th April in the All their own circumstances Community and Local Hospice; £250 Erection of four dwellings Saints Parish Centre at which would, of course, be Government. Butterknowle Hospice; with associated access and 7 pm. Mr Owens also treated as confidential and Parish Plan Working £100 Victim Support, Co parking at King’s Head thanked the Council for with anonymity. Group Report Cllr Wardle Durham. Hotel, Station Road, their support. Public Toilets Again the reported that the Farming, Questions It was agreed Lanchester. GRANTED Date and Time of Next problems of loans for this Wildlife and Environment that a letter should be The meeting ended with all Meeting. This will be the project were discussed as sub-committee is seeking written to the District the Council Members Annual Village well as other problems funding to develop an Council expressing thanking Mr Owen for his Conference and will be such as the possible advocacy service to work concern that a building 16 years of dedication, held in the Conference change of ownership/ with the farmers and under construction in professionalism and Room, Park House, licensee of the premises landowners on Ragpath Lane may not be efficiency he had given to Lanchester, on Tuesday (The Queens’s Head) countryside stewardship for agricultural purposes the Council. He was 8th April, 2008 at 7 pm to where these facilities and development. This is and that clarification be wished the best of luck for be immediately followed have been offered. There to ensure a viable farming given as to the actual the future. A special by the monthly business are also legal community as the best purpose of the building. farewell evening will be meeting of the Parish complications and other way of maintaining the Decision of District held for Mr Owen and his Council. options should be countryside which Council - Planning explored. Cllr Mrs Cook everyone values highly. Applications DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY mentioned a TV Donations £1,325 had Conversion of existing gin IN MAIDEN LAW programme which had been held over for gang to form new dwelling, Garage with office over, 10m x 6m, built to stated that the donations during the last conversion of four existing housing standards with planning consent to Government suggests financial year and it was barns and byers to create convert to a 3 bedroom dwelling. that all public toilets agreed that money should four live/work units and Fabulous outlook in a rural setting on the edge should be closed and that be given as follows as construction of three of the Village. All serious offers considered. toilets in public houses requests had been holiday cottages be used instead. It was received from these (Resubmission) at Middle Call 07941022346 for a viewing agreed that the Clerk charities: £200 for Newbiggen Farm, JIM OWENS RETIRES Lanchester Pharmacy Front Street, Lanchester Telephone/Fax 01207 520365 • Discounted perfumes and gift sets • Toiletries • Makeup • Wide range of vitamins and supplements We are here for your health and care needs

We are a “FRIEND” of the Community Centre

Jim Owens, from Malton, who Lanchester Community Centre successfully completed Presents 50 years with the National Health Service, has just retired again, having served 16 years as Clerk to the Parish Council. The photograph shows Jim working as conscientiously as May 3rd at 7.30pm ever, taking minutes at Tickets £5.00 each his final Parish Council meeting on Tickets available from Community Centre or Lanchester Newsagents Tuesday, 11th March. Ring John Wilson for more information 01207 521275 The Village Voice Page 7 CRUFTS DOG SHOW AT THE NEC, BIRMINGHAM 2008 Freya, my Norwegian condition, movement, After a rest, a glass Elkhound and I set off personality, etc. of wine and some for Crufts on Sunday Although there are not sandwiches, I went 9th March just after many Elkhounds (there round the stalls, 1.15 am, joining one of were 79 at Crufts), there where the goods the two Hound buses are a few large range from canine and at Bowburn Services breeders, who all show human clothing, from which left about an and judge and the exotic to the hour later. We had an everyone seems to country style, food, uneventful journey know everyone else. grooming gear, this year, arriving at Many breeders handle medication (insoles to the NEC about 7am, dogs for owners. Most correct human foot when it was still very people are friendly but problems for £250!), quiet. The Elkhound Freya and I are virtually and toys - which you judging started at on our own as her can’t really imagine 9 am, which gave me breeder bred only the unless you go. There plenty of time to have one litter then had to were at least three breakfast, groom and retire through ill health hundred stalls in that exercise Freya and and went to live abroad. hall alone, and there change into my show None of her brothers are are five halls as well gear. This year I shown and her only as the main one. We handled her myself, so sister was exported. could see the included in my kit was At last, after all the agility and other Proud Owner/Trainer, Mavis Datta, with her a bottle of Rescue dogs and the puppy and competitions taking medal winning Norwegian Elkhound, two year Remedy. However, I Junior bitches had been place on a huge old Freya, whose Kennel Club name is Cakirjo didn’t take any judged, it was time for television screen, but Moonlight Shadow. At Crufts she came 3rd in the because as soon as I me to go in the ring. if there was sound, Beauty Class and 2nd in Show Class restricted looked in the Mrs McDonald, the you couldn’t hear it. to bitches who have gained the catalogue and saw we judge (of Salukis In our hall alone there Good Citizens Obedience Award. were in a big class with usually) liked everyone were 30 judging rings. some very strong to run the dogs first Freya’s number was Richard and Ellie welcome you to opposition, I relaxed, before each individual 21,988! A lot of dogs thinking we hadn’t presentation, and Freya to make a noise, The Queens Head much chance. I must did this nicely. She although most of admit I did have goes well with plenty them are quiet and Front Street, Lanchester hopes, because since of space but doesn’t well-behaved. Co Durham. DH7 0LA Crufts last year, she really go well inside. The bus home was has been to six But it was a big ring supposed to leave at Championship Shows covered with green 6 pm but a lady and Telephone 01207 529 990 and won five of them, rubber and she maybe her granddaughter but I knew that we had thought she was did not arrive so we Choose meals from the daily menu or the never met most of the outside! It is nerve- waited and waited, specials board. (Changed daily). Bookings other bitches here as I wracking waiting for trying to find them by are advisable. don’t travel very far. the judge to make a various means. It Special Theme Nights Many of the exhibitors decision and keeping turned out that they go to nearly all the the dog’s attention, had gone home earlier 16th April Traditional Greek Night Championship Shows looking nice and by train. So we didn’t Menu includes Stifado, Kalamari, Mixed Meza, and there are more standing still, but leave until 7.30 pm. Baklava and many more traditional Greek than 20. But it all eventually, after more Again an uneventful dishes. Greek Wines and Beers also available. depends on the running, Mrs journey until nearly day - your dog’s McDonald decided. We home, when, after St. Georges Day 23rd April performance, your were third, behind a dropping off some handling, the other breeder from Ireland people at Newton Email [email protected] competitors and, of and another big breeder Aycliffe, the driver course, the judge. The from Hereford, so I was went down the wrong judge is supposed to delighted. She was also side of the dual compare each dog entered in a class for carriageway. DURHAM ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE ENGINEERS with the Breed bitches who had won a We were glad to get Standard, not with Kennel Club Good off again at Bowburn, Contact Paul Milburn for a Free Estimate. another dog, but of Citizens Award. Freya finally reaching home Domestic & Commercial Electrical Work course no dog is had just gained her at just after midnight. carried out to IEE Wiring Regulations perfect and it depends Gold Award (after a lot But a day which we 18 BROADOAK DRIVE, LANCHESTER DH7 OQA on what the judge of hard work), and she will all remember Phone 01207 529145 Mobile 07786 233417 thinks is important - was second in this anyhow. EMAIL [email protected] conformation, class. Mavis Datta The Village Voice Page 8 FRED McALOAN LEST WE FORGET ELECTRICAL SERVICES One of the last groups of people to be honoured for Additional Sockets, Lighting, Showers their work during World Cooker Points, Full or Part Rewires War 2 was the Land Army, RELIABLE & DEPENDABLE SERVICE but recently it was NO JOB TOO SMALL PART P REGISTERED announced that members Free Estimate & Friendly Advice of this very essential force 0781 3202 470 were to receive badges. One man who has worked tirelessly to get proper recognition for the ‘land girls’ is Jack Geddes, a former Lanchester lad now resident in Witton Gilbert. For all your Gardening needs As an ex-serviceman (he TELEPHONE GRAHAM THE GARDENER was in the RAF) he 01207 521803 / 01207 528016 attended a reunion to 07962236829 / 07962236826 dedicate a plaque to the EMAIL [email protected] Website www. grahamthegardener.co.uk Polish, American and Canadian forces who fought in the war and No Job too small Free Estimates happened to learn from some ladies present that the Land Army did not receive service medals. Apparently Winston Jack Geddes, who now lives in Witton Gilbert, Churchill considered in his World War 2 RAF uniform Specialists in them to be civilians, Garden Walls, Retaining Walls, Block Paving, Groundwork perhaps not realising Jack Geddes wrote to his Australia was Call Shaun free on 0800 118 2558 that they had been MP Gerry Steinberg, honouring its Land conscripted, and King who brought an ’early Army, yet those in George VI had said in 1953 day motion’ in the Britain were still waiting. WALKED ON! that there would be ‘no Commons and Now pressure from him STOMPED ON! more medals’. Until petitioned PM John and others has brought RUN OVER ! ARE YOUR CARPETS & recently, the British Major for support. Jack success, but sadly many UPHOLSTERY CRYING OUT FOR HELP ANP (N.E.) LTD Legion did not invite the continued to campaign, who served in the Land IF SO YOU MUST CALL US ALLEN & NICKY PHILIPS IMMEDIATELY Land Army to march to and later wrote to the Army are no longer with DIRECTOR / OPERATORS the Cenotaph. Queen to point out that us. Phone: 01207 562182 Mobile: 07841677627 PROFESSIONAL CARPET Email: & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS SUPERMARKET FOR [email protected] LANCHESTER After many rumours project and it is likely supermarket design and long discussions that Tesco could buy have been retained to A. M. ELECTRICAL with the various this smaller group and advise on a suitable • ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN authorities and other turn Lanchester into scheme for this county • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL interested parties the one of their ‘Tesco site. DSA Associates • FREE CALL OUT matter of the vast land Towns’. There is also together with SG Adam Metcalf area at the site of the a possibility if this (Design L’cr) Ltd. have Tel: 0191 3736676 old Maiden Law were to happen that been jointly appointed Mobile: 07966 377416 Hospital has been they would ‘gift’ the as the Landscape resolved. village with a Sports Architects. There will Booths Supermarkets Centre, similar to the be a meeting of all J. DANIELS JOINERY of Preston intend to arrangement that interested parties early make this their first Safeway had with in April where it is All domestic Joinery work undertaken venture into the North Hexham. likely that some very ~Doors~Skirting~Loft storage~ East. They already KPMG have been important decisions ~Decking~Spindles~Flooring~ have two upmarket retained as financial affecting the village Time served joiner specialist in property stores at Windermere advisers to the will be made. renovation. References available and Kirkby Lonsdale scheme and at the All this is obviously of in Cumbria. The outline planning great interest to For a free quote call Jon on financial press has stage Architects, Lancestrians so it is a Tel: 01207281546 been very much SMAL (UK) LTD, who case of watch this Mob: 07786248574 involved in this are experts in space. The Village Voice Page 9 WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

The Women’s World Day of Prayer Service, which was held on Friday March 6th in the Lanchester Methodist Church, was attended by some 75 ladies, all of whom commented very positively about the event. The beautiful readings, an excellent choir, a very thought provoking address, some lovely hymns together with a very receptive congregation, all of which contributed to a service which was enjoyed by everyone who attended it. Brenda W. Craddock (Leader)

Members of the choir, singing beautifully BRYMAR Plastering Services All aspects of internal plastering, alteration work PLANNING DISASTERS and home improvements. A quality, reliable and professional service. For information and FREE One of the most of local wishes is anyone present, quotation contact Blair on: important functions of increased by the short including Councillors, 07952 908 196 Lanchester Partnership time given for objectors the views put forward Shotley Bridge, Consett, Co Durham is to monitor planning to planning by the last speaker, applications and to applications to speak Alex Watson, are make representations at District meetings. normally voted for. to the planning Five minutes is There is also disquiet department at the Civic allocated to objectors, about the system by * BUILT-UP FELT ROOFING * SLATING * Centre, Consett for and that is not five which developers go * TILING * GUTTERING * uPVC FASCIAS * their consideration. minutes each, but for through a process of * SOFFITTS etc. However, the all of them no matter negotiation about realisation is growing how complicated the details of their - ALL WORK GUARANTEED - that neither the issues may be. In application with FREEPHONE: Andy 01207 529936 planning officers nor practice objectors planners, but from Mobile: 07753 353906 the District Council’s choose one which objectors are Development Control spokesman for excluded. There is a Committee are Lanchester, but he or real danger that DENESIDE INTERIORS prepared to take note she has insufficient inexperienced Electrical, Plumbing and of arguments from the time to put forward a planning officers Building services Partnership about the closely reasoned case might be unduly Call Gary for Free Estimates, desirability of some for rejection covering influenced in their No job too small projects in Lanchester. all the planning issues recommendations and 18 years Experience This is exemplified by which arise principally that the time and the decisions to dump from the District Plan resources expended in TEL: 01207 521648 Mobile 07804710042 email: [email protected] four dwellings on the being swept aside. In negotiation are used to King’s Head car park the case of the King’s persuade members to and allow Newbiggen Head there were four accept unacceptable ADVANCED David Gallagher Farm to turn into a main issues, none of proposals. DECORATING Painter and Decorator village, as previously which could be dealt Current plans include FREE ESTIMATES 4 Woodside Tce, reported. Both the with within a minute a house at Oakwood Stanley above were opposed in (the planning officer’s Stables, a six-foot Co. Durham DH9 7HG Lanchester but were report extended to fence around the EP shooed through up at more than 20 pages). school and a container 01207 231338 the Civic Centre. Cynical observers for storage in the 07887 881396 The disillusionment have noted that school grounds. We’ll [email protected] caused by the rejection whatever is said by see what happens. The Village Voice Page 10 ST BEDE’S WELCOMES VISITORS FROM BANGLADESH St Bede’s Comprehensive He said: “We’re very important that it’s not School welcomed pleased to come and just about Europe, but visitors from we’ve had a very warm about the breadth of Bangladesh on a tour to welcome here. For many international experience; study the UK education of this group, this will an opportunity for our system sponsored by be the experience of a students and all of us to the British Council. lifetime. We want to learn more about a Twelve guests spent the connect UK schools different culture. They morning at St Bede’s with our schools wanted to pray and we Catholic School and through international provided prayer mats Sixth Form College, exchange. Nowadays, and a compass to find the Lanchester, on March the world is more direction of Mecca. 12th. They met staff and globalised, there is “The visit went pupils and had lunch much more movement of extremely well. It was a with them, and also services and people. If pleasure and a privilege stopped for prayer. The we could also learn from to have them here and to Bangladeshi visitors each other about talk. They asked very were in County Durham education, we could all searching questions to establish links benefit. Our about us as a school - between their own relationship is not our achievements, schools and schools in personal, but primary links, parental the UK. They spent two institutional and it will support, and about our A Bangladeshi visitor talks to pupils days in Durham after last forever.” culture as a faith school visiting schools in both St Bede’s Deputy - and our students talked government and private Classrooms project aims Birmingham and Headteacher, Maria about the wide range of sectors - were in the UK to support the mainstream London. Matthews, said it was a international as part of a British education system of Mohammed Nazrul new cultural experience experiences they have Council initiative to Bangladesh through Islam Khan, Joint for the school to had. They were great expand its Connecting projects incorporating Secretary of the welcome the visitors from ambassadors for the Classrooms school- three themes: Bangladesh Ministry of Bangladesh. She said: school.” linking project to intercultural dialogue, Education, was “We are a Language The visitors - all education Bangladesh in 2007-08. active citizenship and delighted with the visit. College, so it’s really professionals, from both The Connecting skills for employment.

CRANE MOVES IN NEW POLICE TO START REFURBISHMENT COMMUNITY OF DENTAL SURGERY SUPPORT OFFICER FOR LANCHESTER

PCSO Daniel Mullen (right in our photo), who has replaced PCSO Ray Husband as our community officer, has been seen recently in the village accompanied by PCSO Darren Stephenson, the officer from Leadgate, getting to Major work is starting to give Lanchester’s dental surgery know the ropes and some of the people of a complete make-over Lanchester.

The Village Voice Page 11 LANCHESTER.TYPEPAD.COM BEER FESTIVAL It seems to be a well- 3. Wikipedia; On following pages Richard Windmill, mine popped in over the kept secret that a web- you will find : host at the Queen’s weekend. site has been set up for 4. Lanchester models All Saints RC church Head, was well satisfied There were live sporting Lanchester, through (more antique cars); website; with the reaction to his events on the the good offices of Lanchester Brass Band first beer festival over televisions, with 6 Richard Eyres. 5. Lanchester web-site (4 years out the week-end of nations rugby and the The idea is for Community Centre, of date); and Saturday 23rd and football. everyone, and that with lots of useful ‘Lanchester For Sale’ Sunday 24th February, The festival was such a means you, to upload information hosted which offers a lovely opening up at 10 am on success that another information, by Communigate; motor car to a the first day, when the beer festival was questions, whinges, discriminating and rich greatest numbers immediately planned for and notices about 6. Lanchester Press buyer. attended, including the Easter Bank Holiday events. There is no about FW The Lanchester Village members from the local Weekend, with between limit to what you can Lanchester 1868- website is not, sadly, CAMRA branch who 25 and 30 cask ales. send except common 1946; on the front pages. Nor sense. is there much on it, not If you type 7. Daimler and even from the Parish ‘Lanchester’ into your Lanchester owners Council, which is search engine, you’ll club (more cars); surprising. But now find: it’s top of the bill in 8. Genuki – Lanchester this article. Get clicking 1. All Saints Parish and take part. Type in Church, an history; questions or problems, interesting site 9. John Lanchester, a notices about events created by Lynn that you are either Hedley; writer; holding or have taken 2. Lanchester Motor 10. Elsa Lanchester, an part in. Make the site Company; actress. part of the Village. EGG FLINGING CHAMPIONSHIP A new way of raising two contestants is the first day of next funds for charity has been gradually increased until month, with the first fling at 6 pm. Entrants must pay devised by Lanchester the recipient fails to catch The barrels of real ale await the visitors at the £4 per team to enter. Junior Chamber of an egg unbroken after Queen’s Head Commerce, and all are three tries. invited to participate in Old clothing should be teams of two at the event worn, but plastic aprons SPICE BUS AT ALL SAINTS to be held on the village and helmets are provided green. by the organisers. The competition is very The Junior Chamber simple. One member of a would like to thank Caged team throws an egg to Chickens (Holdings) Ltd another member, who of Lanchester for must catch it unbroken. supplying the eggs. The distance apart of the The competition starts on

Class 3/4 enjoying their time on ‘Ellie’ the SPICE bus organised by Derwentside District Council, who were conducting a survey with the children about summer activities to be provided this summer. There was an extensive number of questions which the leader asked children, about types of activities enjoyed most, and the times and places where information would be best provided.

The Village Voice Page 12 Mobile PC Engineer COURSE ON ROMAN ‘FINDS’ No Call-out Charges Members of the Friends brooches, beads and actual Roman objects to Reasonable Rates of Longovicium are other objects. be identified, giving a Cisco Certified currently learning about Five members of the very clear picture of the Repairs, Servicing, Upgrades, Diagnostics Who you Gonna Call? Roman ‘finds’ from Dr ‘Friends’ have also had subject, together with Bob Collins, Finds detailed training in recommendations for Crashbusters. Liaison Officer for recording the finds. The further reading. 0191 389 0900 or 07855581013 email: [email protected] Northumbria. records can then be The ‘Friends’ are grateful www.crashbusters.co.uk Dr Collins has generously loaded onto the Portable to Dr Collins for his help given his time to provide Antiquities web-site and hope to reciprocate a training course over four which is available to the by locating objects which mornings, held in the public. have already been found Stuart Wright Museum of Antiquities at Dr Collins’ tutorials have in the Lanchester area and Funeral Service Ltd. Durham Newcastle University, all been accompanied by record them on a 23 Marshall Terrace Gilesgate Durham City DH1 2HX including ceramics, coins, detailed printed notes and permanent data base. Tel: (0191) 386 3850 Fax: (0191) 386 4839 43 Front Street Langley Park Durham DH7 9SA Tel: (0191) 373 3700 3 Front Street, Pelton, Chester-le-Street DH2 1DB Tel: (0191) 370 0015 • Complete funeral and monumental service to all areas • Private chapels of rest • Prestigious fleet of silver Daimlers • Funeral pre-payment plans available

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Lanchester Village Taxis LTD. Telephone 01207588888 Est. 1986 24 Hr. number 07951 745335 AIRPORTS OUR SPECIALITY CARS - PEOPLE CARRIERS - MINI BUSES The children with their artworks made of rubbish Fully licensed and insured Contact BILL CONNOR on above numbers The Village Voice Page 13 GREASE - THE MUSICAL For three nights during around the attraction March St Bede’s School between greaser Danny and Sixth Form College Zuko and the virtuous was transformed into Sandy Dumbrowski. It Rydell High, USA. As the became better known in curtain opened the sound the UK, of course, with of American accents the film version in 1978, resounded around the starring John Travolta hall and the players and Olivia Newton John. amazingly were able to The props were very keep this up throughout effective, particularly the whole performance. Danny’s car ‘Greased Originally, Grease was Lightning’. The singing, staged as an amateur choreography, production in a Chicago movement and dancing trolley barn. It took a were all to an exceptionally Dancing the night away satirical view of morals, high standard led by dress, manners and music Sandy, (Hannah Shield), musical and had the of teenagers at the and Danny, (William audience tapping their beginning of the rock and Connolly). Other soloists feet and clapping. The roll era. The plot revolved played a huge part in the chorus and cheerleaders wowed the audience with The Three Horse Shoes their colourful costumes, (Lanchester Road Maiden Law) movement and singing. The Handjive song was Jo & Jason welcome you particularly enjoyable to Food Served watch and hear. The band Lunch Menu Mon - Fri 12-2pm made up of music Lunch Menu Sunday 12-3pm teachers played an important part in the Evening Menu Available whole production and Mon - Friday 6-9pm were appreciated by Food served Saturday everyone. 12 to 3 pm & 6 to 9 pm This was a slick, fast moving professional Live Music every 2nd Friday from 9 pm performance with rapid Folk Night Sundays from 8 pm costume changes and For Reservations scenery movement. Credit goes to the whole TTTel: 01207 520900 cast but there were many people, too many to Stars of Grease, Hannah Shield (Sandy) and mention all, who worked William Connolly, (Danny), share a moment in the background. together However, it would be North East Premier Hair Salon remiss not to Christen, Producer, (and The musical was a huge congratulate Mr Andrew Chair of Governors), for success, very enjoyable Celebrating 27 yrs. Robinson, Musical their magnificent to watch and went like in hairdressing Director, and Mr contribution. greased lightning. Specialist in all areas of Hairdressing 1-2 Front Street Lanchester 01207 520331 “North East Bridal Champions” BALMAIN REAL HAIR EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE Beauty and Tanning Complete range of beauty treatment for Women and Men Front Street Lanchester The cast come together for the finale of Grease 01207 529994 for appointment Photos: Paul Green, upmyway photography The Village Voice Page 14 THE BUNSEN TOWERS MYSTERY On Thursday 28th The cast of two took on a know. Several young February the Kinetic number of roles, with folks were privileged to Theatre Company Nicki playing Lady Lydia, put on silly hats and play presented a thrilling her romantic daughter the role of molecules, led mystery play to the Poppy and the maid and by the Major wearing a massed ranks of the pupils Paul playing the colander and a molecule of Lanchester EP School. detective, Lydia’s potty hat on his head. To find out who had made father the major and Miles All this delightful off with Lady Lydia’s the chauffeur. As well as nonsense was great diamond, a teacher and overacting outrageously, entertainment and may two pupils were recruited the cast conspired to even have been to help the famous explain about molecules, educational, in a chaotic detective Hercule Parrot why lighted candles sort of way. by checking on the crucial won’t make a lift rise and And how did the timing of the suspects’ other matters which detective manage to movements. young persons need to assemble all the suspects at the end to unveil how the crime was done? Elementary. Left: Lady Lydia and Above, the potty DENESIDE Hercule Major, also TAXIS Parrot, played by Paul, (Kevin) alias Nicki with the and Paul of children, Local friendly service Kinetic wearing silly Competitive rates Theatre, hats and dance playing the role Tel: LANCHESTER gracefully of molecules 528882

The Village Voice Page 15 WI NEWS DAYLIGHT The March meeting to Hiring Women ’ with underweight sisters; Tip (Bath) and Shirley Lamb began on a sombre note ‘Eleven Tips on Getting 6 - give the female (Durham). SAVINGS with Jean Forster More Efficiency Out of employee a definite day- Mr Watts Stelling gave a highlighting how Women Employees’. long schedule of duties talk about ‘Listed CONTEST important it is to These included “Tip 1 - so that they’ll keep busy Buildings in A contest begins next recognise the symptoms Pick young married without bothering the Derwentside’. Members month to see who can of a stroke. If the simple women. They usually management for were surprised to learn save the most daylight rule of ‘S T R’ is applied have more of a sense of instructions every few there are 311 listed for daylight savings then a stroke can be more responsibility than their minutes. Women make including 27 in the time. The rules of the easily identified. Ask the unmarried sisters, they’re excellent workers when Lanchester area. The contest are simple: patient to S - SMILE, T - less likely to be flirtatious, they have their jobs cut seven Grade I buildings Beginning with the first TALK, R - RAISE BOTH they need the work or they out for them, but they lack are : All Saints Church, day of daylight ARMS, and if there is any wouldn’t be doing it, they initiative in finding work Lanchester; Ushaw savings time, difficulty in achieving still have the pep and themselves.” There were College; Mary contestants will be these requests then it may interest to work hard and a few raised eyebrows Magdalene Church, required to save possibly be signs of a to deal with the public amongst WI members! Medomsley; Old Priory, daylight. Whoever stroke and medical help efficiently; Tip 3 - General Phil Penfold won the Muggleswick; frontage of succeeds in saving the can be quickly experience indicates that raffle. The competition Tanfield Village; most daylight will win. summoned. ‘husky’ girls are more for a photo of ’an old Derwentcote Steel Only pure daylight will Jean then read the more even tempered and building’ was won by Furnace, Ebchester; be allowed - no dawn or light-hearted 1943 ‘Guide efficient than their Jennifer Macdonald Causey Arch. Brook Villa, twilight light, though Prospect House, the light from cloudy days

T TELEVISION REPAIRS Queens Head Pub, and 27 will be allowed. TV Widescreen, Projection, Plasma, LCD, Computer, Dyson, Autowasher, and 39 Front Street are Moonlight is strictly Repairs, Sales, Rentals and Rent to Buy, Ex Rental TV/VTR’s

ADVER Grade II listed. The 1935 forbidden. Light could Free Estimates-Installations-No call out charges-All work Guaranteed telephone box, Ebchester, be stored in any

THIS Sensible Prices-Discount for OAP’s, Students Free loan TV’s and the pigsty at Board container. City & Guilds Qualified Engineers DISCOUNT Member Cottage, Iveston, are Contestants should first All areas covered any day 9am - 8pm WITH STANLEY, CONSETT, DURHAM, CHESTER-LE-STREET of Reta unusual Grade II obtain their entry form FREEPHONE 0800 801115 MOBILE 07831 688446 Est 25 buildings. Members from Lanchester Lions, D&C Electronics 34 Front Street, Annfield Plain, Stanley years found this information phone 520559. A fee of 10% fascinating and asked the £3 per entry is required. speaker many questions. In cash please. CRINNIONS OF LANCHESTER TRADITIONAL MASTER BUTCHERS & DELICATESSEN LADIES WHO LUNCH Established 1959 It was like a film set in opted for the sandwich NEW OPENING HOURS Lanchester down at choice of minute steak, Knitsley Mill - full of fried onion, mushroom 8 - 5pm Mon - Wed diners from the village - and brie and just one of 8 - 5.30pm Thur - Fri obviously there are lots us added a pud onto the 8 - 2pm Sat of us living the high life end of the meal and from and lunching out the sweet menu BUTCHERY regularly. enjoyed a delicious √ Full Range of British Meat On a particularly cold coffee and amaretto √ Full Range of Fresh Fish February day the Mill cheesecake. All was √ was a haven of warmth. quite delicious. Traditional Home-made Sausages & Bacon They have a super menu Knitsley Mill is set in an DELICATESSEN although we decided to idyllic rural setting, √ try their amazingly rushing working water British & Continental Cooked Meats good value lunchtime wheel, ducks on the √ British & Continental Cheese set menu of £7.95 for 2 pond, white turtle √ Fresh Sandwiches & Pies made Daily courses which included doves, all making a √ New Ranges of Spices & Speciality Foods now in Stock a glass of wine and a totally relaxing cup of coffee. lunchtime experience HAVING A PARTY??? We sampled onion which would be hard to soup. carrot and beat. WE ALSO OFFER A CATERING SERVICE OR HAMPER butternut squash soup Aren’t we lucky, to be FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION!!!! and a lovely looking and living in such a tasting passion fruit beautiful area with such 21 & 25 FRONT STREET, LANCHESTER, Co DURHAM, DH7 0LA sorbet with apple crisps choice dining BUTCHERS Tel: 01207 520376 followed by a salmon experiences on our DELICATESSEN Tel: O1207 520269 and a chicken meal. doorstep. We are a “FRIEND” of the Community Centre One of our members The Gourmet Girls The Village Voice Page 16 VOCAL DELIGHTS DAVISONS Business as usual at our LEADGATE shop Spring Collection Now Arrived We have an excellent selection of:- √ √ Oscar B √ Emreco √ Poppy √ √ Wish Front Street, Leadgate 01207 502355 L to r, Jessica Holmes, Peter Coulson, Bill Gray, Andrew Fowler, Stefan Wade and Paul Fothergill, with Jason Walsh at the piano Once again Andrew Fowler followed ‘the Bold South American mode, and has put together a Gendarmes’ with a Rossini’s ‘Duetto Buffo a programme of all the version of ‘Cavatina’. due Gatti’, a comic but Family run business supplying talents in aid of Mel and In their second set melodious chorus of Sue Somersall’s work in Andrew and Friends miaous. Fires and surrounds and full central Liberia. entertained with some Mel and Sue would like to heating systems Andrew again brought his classical ‘pops’ and Paul thank all those who Natural gas, LPG and solid fuel specialists team of Jessica Holmes and Fothergill gave a powerful contributed to the success Condensing boiler installations baritone Peter Coulson, rendering of ‘If I Loved of the evening, which All gas appliances serviced and repaired enhanced this year by raised £1774 to continue You’ from Carousel. This Landlord Service and CP12’s singer and pianist Jason was followed by his building a boys’ dormitory. Save money on your fuel bills - Power flush Walsh, together with arrangement of ‘Sea This is part of an ongoing your system Wolsingham School pupils Fever’. project to rebuild an Worcester Bosch approved for all installations, Stefan Wade and Paul The evening ended with orphanage destroyed by services and repairs Fothergill. Bill Gray also some of the team’s most civil war in Liberia, and ACS and Hetas approved provided piano backing. appreciated songs, thanks to their tireless Corgi Reg 183856, Est. 1983 Lanchester Male Voice including a bravura fund-raising work the Visit our showroom at Choir was also on parade performance of Noel schoolroom and girls’ 6-8 Station Road Stanley Co Durham DH9 0JL to provide two sets from Coward’s Nina, about the dormitory at ‘Lanchester Or for free estimate and advice call their extensive repertoire, lady who absolutely would House’ in Monrovia have 01207 299 887 under the baton of Harry not dance, by Andrew in already been built. www.flickersfires.co.uk Carr and accompanied at the piano by Noreen Bridgewater. The theme of the evening was ‘If Music be the Food of Love’. These three elements were joined by humour, exemplified by Andrew’s Tom Lehrer offering which started the show, ‘My Home Town’. After more classical contributions from Peter Coulson and Jessica Holmes, Stefan and Paul gave assured excerpts from their school’s recent production of ‘Grease’ In their two sets the MVC skilfully alternated classical and powerful ballads with lighter pieces like ‘When I’m 64’ and ‘Riders in the Sky’ and Lanchester Male Voice Choir take a bow after their performance The Village Voice Page 17 A GERSHWIN PARTY There was a new look to They managed to pack in and conductor David the ever-sprightly most of the hit songs Hughes, who had good members of Lanchester George Gershwin wrote reason to be proud of the Operatic Society for their in his tragically short life, latest in the Society’s production on the 20th, including ‘Someone to great composers series. 21st and 22nd February Watch Over Me’, There should be special in the EP school. ‘Embraceable You’, ‘Lady mention of the backroom The audience were Be Good’, ‘Love Walked boys, notably the ranged around three Right In’, ‘A Foggy Day’, electricians who had fuse sides of the stage, which and a medley of songs problems on the was garnished with a from ‘Porgy and Bess’ Thursday night and the loggia to carry the including Gershwin’s troupers on stage who spotlights and some most recorded song sang blithely through the palm-trees courtesy of ‘Summertime’. The shock of an exploding Lanchester Nurseries. audience were invited to spot-light. Here and there were join in with selected clusters of silvery chairs numbers, and song- Right: Anne Marie and tables where the sheets were supplied with Ashman and Peter ladies and gentlemen of the programme. Bridgewater in full the chorus could sit Presiding over this lively song between scenes and - a production was producer very welcome touch - hand out toffees to the audience. The orchestra were no longer pushed away into a corner but ranged behind the stage. The whole effect was of a palm court nightclub, serving orange squash and whatever Maureen was drinking. Which brings us to the Fred and Ginger of the Lanchester scene, Maureen Redfearn and Michael Quigley, who as host and hostess for the evening alternated Anne Marie Ashman, Katy Drewett, Noreen Bridgewater, Sharon Murray, Richard Woods, introducing the numbers Brian Masterman, Michael Quigley and Maureen Redfearn with sophisticated banter and some intricate dance- steps, as well as a song which could well start a Charleston revival. Judith Cole and Lynn Whitehead gave a running commentary on the life and times of the Gershwin brothers, reading from that essential publication ‘Gershwin For Dummies’, a nice touch. The customary high quality of the singing was much enhanced by the use of head microphones by the principal singers, Anne Marie Ashman, Sharon Murray, Katy Orchestra and Conductor: back row l to r Sam Gladdon (trombone), Ian Hall (trumpet), Bill Gray Drewett, Richard Woods (keyboard). Front row David Hughes (conductor), Caroline Burgon (saxophone and clarinet), Wendy and Peter Bridgewater. Hughes (flute), Jack Haswell (violin), Stuart Murray (bass guitar) and Ian Murray (percussion)

The Village Voice Page 18 CREATIVITY WEEK This well-established for year 5 to perform to event on Lanchester EP their parents. primary school’s Thursday saw a return visit calendar provided hours from poet Paul Cookson, of work and fun for all the who began the day with a pupils. bravura performance of his On Monday March 3rd latest compositions, plus story-teller Robin one or two older ones (like Ellwood read from ‘Do exactly as you are recently written books to told’, a lesson in how to several classes, and kept annoy parents by doing them completely literally what they say). enthralled, while Maralyn He introduced new O’Keefe used two characters like the teacher techniques to introduce Mrs Eagle who saw different age-groups to everything and Captain stained glass design. The Concorde, the super-hero younger pupils used wearing red underpants special paints to make a and a supersonic nose. design on acetate sheets. Every poem had a chorus Maralyn O’Keefe completes the last decorative glass hanging as junior These will help to inspire to be chanted by the school pupils demonstrate their designs a stained glass work that audience, and for maximum Maralyn is doing for the effect a set of gestures as Garden’, with school. The older pupils well. KristianWhendan as Tom, made artistic creations Throughout the day Paul a boy sent to stay with his based on small triangular showed the children how aunt and uncle, Adele pieces of stained glass, to write poetry, and at the Scott as his aunt and and these were made by end of the day he gave Hattie, the young lady he their expert tutor into another performance for meets in the past and Tom hangings suitable to put the benefit of parents. Plender as the uncle and in front of a window. On Friday, a busy week a gardener. The audience On Tuesday actor Lisa ended with a performance enjoyed the musical play Moffat created and by Image Musical Theatre and might well go on to rehearsed a ‘play in a day’ of ‘Tom’s Midnight read the book. BARNARDO’S EGG CARE A special visitor to All Saints primary school was Emma Hardie, Community Fund Raiser for the charity Poet Paul Cookson Barnardo’s. She explained to the children that Barnardo’s offers help to young carers who have to look after poorly parents. They also run nurseries and help with fostering children who need a good The secret of a home. She then explained the beautiful lawn ‘egg care’ scheme. and it costs less than DIY! Children will decorate, dress up and care for an egg. Their reward will be A healthier GREENER lawn the cuddly Barney the in 4 easy steps. Bear, symbol of the charity, and in return Costs from as little as £13.00 Barnardo’s ask for per application. contributions to their work. Details are available by FREEPHONE ringing Emma on 0191 Emma Hardie from Barnardo’s 0800 1695009 270785 explaining the Egg Care Scheme

The Village Voice Page 19 CROSSWORD 23 ACROSS DOWN 1. The games MPs 2. Fifty in pain play ? (5,8) before fog 10. A coin is divided produces capital (7) magician (9) 11. Month (7) 3. Irritable (5) 12. Foe (5) 4. Catch illegally (5) 13. South African 5. Wild animal language (9) trainer (4-5) 14. Whinny (5) 6. Competition from 16. Order outsize troops Tate relic (9) (9) 7. Navigator in 18. Betting system replica bottle (5) realist to reform (9) 8. Global (13) 19. Follow (5) 9. Where Britannia 20. Go too far (9) ruled (7,6) 23. Cheviots, 15. Funny (9) Leicesters, Suffolks 16. Ending (9) etc. (5) 17. Irritable, 24. Pointless slave oil confused, Pepys’ mixture for pits (7) pointless edict (9) 25. Denier points to all I 21. Rocker seen in lost from alligator brothel visit (5) (7) 22. Indian inhabitant 26. Employs cover from (5) sure nuisances (4,9) 23. Greek letter (5) ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD 22 ACROSS DOWN 1. conduct 1. cosy Name ______CROSSWORD 22 5. crèche 2. nerd Address ______9. serrated 3. unabated There were 14 entries 10. evince 4. theme for last month’s 12. name and 6. ravish crossword shame 7. convalesce Please send your entries to The Village Voice, c/o competition, though 15. repression 8. elementary Lanchester Community Centre, Newbiggen Lane, 17. eat 11. on song not all were completely 19,22. Ten 13. protecting Lanchester, DH7 0JQ. correct. Commandments 14,29. upon a mercy Congratulations to the 20. lung cancer mission Jack Clegram winner in the draw, 22. See 19 16. sounds Mr D Smith of Kitswell 26. inroad 18. mattress Horticultural Engineers 27. asteroid 21. carafe Road, who will receive 28. geyser 23. Epsom We service all models of mowers, the £10 prize. 24. Gobi 25. Odin strimmers and generators Unit 3a Tow Law Industrial Estate SUDOKU Dans Castle, Tow Law DL3 4BB There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain 01388 730577 or 07714 169191 the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. See next month for answers.

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The Village Voice Page 20 STEELWORKS STUDY Kath Stronell BSc(Hons) Pod. MCh.Soc. The closure of Consett answers, just as the loaded onto a web-site. steelworks is a bitter Genesis Project had to do. This whole project has MOBILE memory for many people The pupils have also been led by class teacher STATE REGISTERED CHIROPODIST in Lanchester, but for our looked at the size of Mrs Conlin, and arises Special rates for O.A.P.s primary school children it Consett and the from a visit she led to the is a historical event from steelworks at different Old Fulling Mill Telephone: 01207 588166 long before they were born. times from the 19th archaeological museum in Children from All Saints century onward, and Durham. The good primary school 5th and explored the closure behaviour of the children 6th year have been through drama, bringing led to an invitation to join David Chapman involved in an in-depth the history alive. the project, involving ten Plumbing & Heating study of Consett before They have looked at schools in the County. It Established 1981 and after the closure, primary evidence - real is led by the NE Water Industry Approved Plumber using archive records. documents from the past - Museums, Libraries and Corgi Reg 3745 On Monday 17th of and scanned them for bias. Archives Council and For free estimate and advice March they were asked The next project will be to aided by a substantial Telephone: (01207) 521501 by drama consultant interview the grandfather Heritage Lottery grant to Mobile: 07977 502536 Bryony Bell to decide of one of the pupils who allow archivists to work what should be done with worked at the steelworks, in schools. the steelworks site, taking but not before fully Mrs Conlin has been into account the needs of professional preparation impressed by the gains S & J LANCHESTER TAXIS business, housing, of the questions. The made by pupils in literacy community use and interview will be recorded, and numeracy skills as Our service is fast, friendly and reliable education. They had to and together with class well as confidence and take the comparable costs notes and other material would like to see the at very competitive rates and benefits into account gathered during the methods used developed Give us a call on 01207 528170 and come up with the study, will eventually be in the curriculum. (Special discount for OAP’s)

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PLUMBING AND HEATING 26 YEARS EXPERIENCE Bryony Bell plans the regeneration of the steel works site with a group of CORGI REGISTERED 5th and 6th years at All Saints school WE SAW IT FIRST A leaflet dropped through to Nobby Dimon for the Lanchester in the intimate Telephone: (01207) 583494 my door advertising a play national success he has surroundings of the Mobile 07734861765 at the Theatre Royal in had with this production library. Newcastle, an adaptation and we will look forward We are blessed with lot of LAST MONTH’S SUDOKU ANSWER of The 39 Steps. This to the return of his good amateur talent in the follows a very successful company to Lanchester village but we do not get run of the play in the in November. many visits from London West End. A I have also been hearing a professional companies. smug thought came into lot recently about the However what is lacking my mind as I saw the Ukulele Orchestra of Great in quantity is clearly made Newcastle ticket prices Britain. They have up for in quality. So folks, (goodness knows what featured regularly on BBC keep reading the Village they charged in London!). radio programmes and Voice “What’s On” and We saw it here in have had sell out concerts support the events in the Lanchester at a fraction in London and European village. What we get of the price. capitals. Once again we today, the world catches Congratulations must go saw them here in up with later. P Monaghan The Village Voice Page 21 Stem Cells Talk History Society WI WHAT’S ON? On Thursday 3rd April Following the excellent At 7 pm on 7th April in the WHAT’S ON? Professor McGuckin and talk given by the Reverend Small Hall of the Passion About Amazing Dr. Forrass from the Peter Waterhouse, ably Community Centre Health Grace Centre For Life in assisted by Mr Peter Jennifer Gill from Durham A talk on the work of This film, which will be Newcastle will give a Jackson, we can look County Record Office will Willowburn Hospice by shown at the Film Club on presentation called forward to another give a slide talk on ‘Food members of the nursing Sunday at 7.30 pm on 20th ‘Curing the Incurable? interesting evening when in the Archives’. Visitors staff and fundraisers will April in the Community The Potential of Stem Mr Norman Emery, one £1 are welcome. From be held in Lanchester Centre, is an inspiring Cells’. This important time member of 9.30 am on 9th April there library on Thursday 10th story of how one man’s evening starts at 7.00 pm Lanchester History will be a Coffee Morning April at 7.30 pm. passion and in All Saints RC Church Society, and now Durham (Cakes and Food stall etc) Tickets are available from perseverance changed Parish Centre. County Archaeologist, in the Community Centre the library, telephone the world. Based on the presents his talk on lounge. The tickets are 521021. Entry is free, but a life story of William Country archaeological 50p and everyone is donation to Willowburn’s Wilberforce (Ioan Market excavations. welcome. Names are funds would be Gruffudd), leader of the Your favourite source of The talk will focus being taken for the Group appreciated. The Library, British abolition cakes, pies, eggs, veg. primarily on the Meeting at Satley at will be holding a raffle and movement, the film and other desirable excavations currently 7.15 pm on 9th June; the book stall to fundraise for chronicles his epic things is on Saturday taking place at the tickets are £2.50 and Willow Burn, and struggle to pass a law to April 5th from 10 am in the medieval church of St include supper and Monica, Librarian, invites end the slave trade in the Community Centre. Mary the Less, situated entertainment. A trip is anyone who would like to late 18th century. near Durham Cathedral. being arranged for 2nd bring/buy a book to come Wilberforce meets intense Wildlife It will be held in the July to Yarm, Tees cruise along and do so. opposition from members Group Community Centre on 4th with lunch and to Stockton This event has been of Parliament who feel the Lanchester Wildlife April at the usual time of (market day) and/or rescheduled because of a slave trade is tied to the Group meet on the second 7.30 pm. Garden Centre. Members clash with a concert for stability of the British Tuesday of the month, so please ring Jennifer 01207 Mercy Ships in March. Empire. Several friends, the next one will be April Mothers’ Union 520012 for further details. including Wilberforce’s 8th at 7.30 pm. The next meeting is on MP Surgery minister, John Newton The speakers will be Jim Wednesday 9th April, Mega Our Member of (Albert Finney), a Cokill, Director of Durham 7.30 pm in the Chapter Smoothie Parliament, Hilary reformed slave ship Wildlife Trust, and its House, when the speaker Roadshow Armstrong, will hold her captain who penned the Marketing Manager will be Margaret Bell of Lanchester library hosts monthly surgery, where beloved hymn Amazing Adam Eagle. For further Durham Family Welfare a special Easter holiday constituents are invited Grace, urge him to see the information ring 520063. Adoption. event on Thursday 10th to bring their problems, cause through. The film April when the Mega on Friday 11th April at club is a village venture Smoothie Roadshow 6 pm at Citizens’ House, and all are welcome. “White Box Photography” (Rating PG) next venue arrives for children aged Consett Lanchester Community Centre 5-12 years. Under 8’s must Newbiggen Lane, Lanchester, Co Durham be accompanied by an Sunday Bridge Flower Club adult. The next bridge session At the meeting on Sun 6th April 2008 The event is from 3 to 4 pm in aid of Community Wednesday 23rd April 9am and 6pm and tickets are available Centre funds will be on at 2 pm in the Community Call Christine: 07931 364 165 from the library, telephone 13th April, starting at 2 pm Centre, there will be a (Standard t-mobile tariff) 521021. in the main hall. Tickets demonstration by are £3. Kathleen Marlor of Ryton entitled ‘As Time Just Goes By’. LADIES CLOTHING SALE Desserts The next event to raise Stitch In M&S : PER UNA : PRINCIPLES : NEXT ETC funds for a Liberian Wednesday afternoon LOW LOW PRICES orphanage is ‘Just Needlework Girls will be Desserts’ on Friday April at Lanchester Library on SATURDAAAY 26th AAApril 18th in Lanchester Thursday 24th April Methodist Church. On during opening hours 10 - 2.00PM offer from 7 pm onwards (9 am - 1 pm and 2 pm - AT are ‘Puddings and Brass’, 7 pm), making and including pudding (have selling hand stitched LANCHESTER COMMUNITY CENTRE, the first course at home), cards, proceeds to go to NEWBIGGIN LANE, LANCHESTER coffee, and music from Willow Burn Hospice. Consett Salvation Army Come and join us HOMECARE CLOTHING Brass Band. Mel will be stitching, chatting or selling tickets at £6 (ring buy one or more of our TEL 01207 271636 529153). cards.

The Village Voice Page 22 Happy Jack Friends of Music at the Three Horeshoes A John Godber play Longovicium Every Sunday evening to sing, play, or even often on hand, picking out comes to the Community All those interested in from 8.30 pm, singers and recite poetry. The music some nifty chords on one Centre on May 3rd, our Roman Fort are musicians from varies widely in style and of his acoustic or electric played by the Library invited to the next Lanchester and around content but guitars and singing some Theatre Touring meeting of the Friends about gather in the Three entertainment is always standards from the forties Company. in the Community Horseshoes, Maiden Law the aim. Geoff Grant is or beyond. ‘Happy Jack’, the main Centre’s upstairs character, who looks a meeting room, starting lot like John Godber’s at 7.30 pm on Thursday granddad, is a miner, a April 24th. brawler, a conman, a lover, a thug and a Lions Abba comedian, a Northern Tribute Night mixture of tenderness, Calling all ABBA fans truculence, humour, and those who enjoy a pride and pig- good night out at headedness. reasonable cost. Come The life of Jack and his and join Lanchester ‘other half’, Liz, is Lions in Tribute Night revealed through a to Abba and other great series of vignettes, full sounds to be held on of drama and wry Saturday 17th May at humour. Lanchester Social Club. Tickets cost £5 and may Disco-Supper-£5. For be had from the Post tickets phone 01207 Office or the Community 520372. Centre, phone 521275. Geoff Grant at The Three Horseshoes Social Club Entertainment SAINT PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATIONS Sat 5th April Dazz, a Saint Patrick’s Day was where the O’Boyle Band but played like a banjo, series of classic Irish male vocal marked at the Queen’s were ensconced with a dazzling fiddler Dan ballads like Galway City entertainer Head with as fine a band fearsome array of Hands, powerful and the Black Velvet Sat 12th April Cindy as you could find from instruments, microphones vocalist and/or Band. Gee, a teenage here to Killarny, bejabers and electronic cable. bouzouki player Tony Those who could not vocal sensation etc. The band combines an Martin and guitarist find a seat could hear Sat 19th April The staff were fully impressive quartet of Andy McLoughlin. quite well from the bar, Karaoke occupied bringing in extra talents, with Martin The music was suited to where a few sad people Sat 26th April Karen chairs as more people Matthews alternating the occasion, with sets were watching McManus, tried to pack into the room banjo and electric guitar, of jigs and reels and a Newcastle United play. female vocalist Coming Shortly The C of E Parish Church holds its Summer Fayre, with sunshine and strawberries in mind, on Saturday 14th June from 9.30 to 11.30am. Lanchester Lions Village Carnival will take place on 21st June 2008. The theme will be Pirates and Princesses. The Partnership Open Day will be held in the Community Centre on The O’Boyle Band Saturday October 4th. Organisers, please try to avoid listed events KEEP READING ‘WHAT’S ON’ dates. Planning ahead? Let me SUPPORT OUR VILLAGE EVENTS know when and where. See ‘We saw it first’, page 21 Ring 520559. The Village Voice Page 23 “SERVE AND VOLLEY” SPORT RELIEF As summer is fast By arrangement with approaching, Lanchester Derwentside District Lawn Tennis Club will be Council, coaching will dusting off the cobwebs commence on Monday in the pavilion and getting 21st April 2008 on the ready for the new season. college courts. Up to year For those residents 6 will be at 6.00 pm and up recently moved into the to year 11 from 7.00 pm. area, the club is situated Senior/intermediate along Ford Road, between coaching will begin on Smallhope Drive and Ford 12th May from 8.00 pm. Crescent. Three grass A full programme of courts await anyone social events is planned interested in playing for 2008. These include tennis with the season B.B.Q., Strawberry Tea starting late April/ and Open Days. beginning of May. Equipment is available for Having grass courts does anyone to use, so why not stop members playing not come along and give in the winter as games are it a go. played on the courts Full details can be Ready set go for the three legged walk behind Derwentside obtained from the College on Sunday Secretary, Dennis mornings, weather Laycock on 01207 permitting !! 520278. BOWLING SEASON STARTS SOON Lanchester Bowling Club largest number of women is holding its spring members in its history. meeting on Thursday 17th Whether you are a April at 7.30 pm in the seasoned bowler or a bowls pavilion. All complete novice you will members are asked to be welcome in this friendly attend and the club would club. Potential members like to extend a welcome not able to attend the to any potential new meeting should give Ken members to come along Raper a ring on 01207 as well. 521673. The bowling Balancing is the name of the game The club has a growing green will be open from Lanchester EP School dress in sport gear for did the same, in three membership and the the 1st of May. children paid £1 to the day and as a reward legged style. spent the afternoon, It was a great fun one of the mildest this afternoon for both FITNESS 4 YOU year, playing games children and staff, who Lanchester Community Centre and other sporting also dressed in activities outside. Some tracksuits for the day. NEW EXERCISE CENTRE of them ran several laps A total of £197.35 was Opening Times of the field and others raised for Sport Relief. MONDAY TO THURSDAY 9-12 noon, 2-4pm & 5-8pm NEXT DEADLINE FRIDAY 9-12noon Please send any articles for the next edition of the ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP £240 (£204)* Village Voice by Tuesday 15th April. The deadline for adverts is 13th April. 6 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP £132 (£114)* 3 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP £69 (£60)* Published by Lanchester Publications Ltd, 49 Lintzford Road, Rowlands Gill, NE39 1HG and printed by The 1 MONTH MEMBERSHIP £24 (£21)* Community Newspaper Suppport Association (a non OR PAY-AS-YOU-GO £4.00 (£3.50)* profit-making company with charitable aims), 27 Main Street, Shildon, Co Durham, DL4 1AL. (* CONCESSION PRICE) The views expressed in this periodical are not necessarily those of the publishers. Whilst all efforts are made to check the authenticity and accuracy of all articles TEL. 01207 521275 FOR MORE INFORMATION submitted for publication, occasionally something is SHOP AT LANCHESTER’S ON LINE COMMUNITY SHOP bound to be printed incorrectly. Please let us know and www.buy.at/lanchestercommunitycentre we will endeavour to correct the mistake. The Village Voice Page 24