Issue No 284 At the heart of our wonderful community Saturday 1st August 2020

BISHOP PRESS FUNDING KEEPS DELIVERERS SAFE

THE BISHOP PRESS is delighted to have received news that its funding application to believe housing, to sup- ply a complimentary bot- tle of hand sanitiser to all of our deliverers within the housing provider’s catchment area has been successful. As a result, we have been able to provide every deliverer of our papers with the bottle to help them remain safe while posting our free newspapers through local letterboxes. Editor, Steph Bennett said: “We are tremen- dously grateful to believe housing for helping us Auckland Castle reopened to the public last November after an extensive three-year renovation project. fund this project as we return to print. “We were very keen to AUCKLAND PROJECT ANNOUNCES make sure that our deliv- ers would be able to get back to work safely and RESTRUCTURE AMID VIRUS FALLOUT took advice from the local authority as to how THE AUCKLAND Project concluded that The Auck- mercial operations - the and to safeguard the to ensure that. has announced plans to land Project now needs Trading and Enterprise long-term viability of the “As deliverers will be restructure its operations to significantly restruc- Division - which will be organisation. working primarily out- following a strategic ture its operation to pro- focused on maximising In line with other cul- doors, hand hygiene is review commissioned by vide increased focus and commercial return so tural venues and organi- the primary concern, so the Board of Trustees. reduce costs as it moves that charitable activities sations across the North we decided to provide The review was set to the next phase of its can be best supported. East and the wider UK, a complimentary bot- up prior to the Covid-19 development. As a result of the review, The Auckland Project tle to all deliverers as pandemic but has been It is therefore proposed The Auckland Project is has suffered a significant both reassurance and accelerated by the need that The Auckland Pro- beginning a consultation financial impact since the as a thank you for their for significant change ject will establish two with all staff about possi- coronavirus lockdown, patience as we waited to brought about by the operating divisions, one ble redundancies. which forced the closure return to print.” financial pressures that concentrating on its The leadership team is of all buildings to the pub- For more information on coronavirus has created charitable activities - the also being developed to lic in March. believe housing’s community for the charity. Regeneration Division - ensure that it can sup- grant scheme, see page 6. The strategic review has and the other on the com- port the new structure CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

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Published at: 3-4 First Floor Offices, Shildon Town Council, Civic Hall Square, Shildon DL4 1AH • Editorial: 01388 775896 • Advertising: 07909 992731 • Email: [email protected] • Online: www.swd.news/bishop • You can read all our sister papers online at www.swd.news: News • & Chilton Chapter • Shildon & District Town Crier For more news from and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news Saturday 1st August 2020

PROJECT TO CUT WASTE AND FOOD COSTS REOPENS Published by AN INNOVATIVE ‘commu- South West Durham News nity pantry’ in St Helen 3-4 First Floor Offices Auckland that helps local Shildon Town Council people reduce grocery Civic Hall Square costs and cut food waste Shildon DL4 1AH has reopened after a Editorial: coronavirus pause. 01388 775896 The project, funded by Advertising: believe housing, helps 07909 992731 anyone in the community to improve their eating Email: habits as well as saving [email protected] money. Online: Run by local commu- www.swd.news/bishop nity interest company Little Chefs Big Chefs, You can read our the Community Pantry sister papers online: provides a whole range of cut-price food and house- hold items for just a nom- inal charge. The produce is collected www.swd.news/crier from local supermarkets Joane Iceton, left and Kelly Rutherford, right, with Kimberley Batey from believe housing. and other retailers, who SPENNYMOOR NEWS have agreed to donate The items available ing to support the planet. said: “We are overjoyed end-of-line products or range from fruit and veg Applications for funding that believe housing has www.swd.news/spenny items that are likely to to tinned food, bread, from believe housing invested in this project as be thrown away as they meat and toiletries. Flow- under the new priority are we feel it can benefit the reach their ‘best before’ ers and other household now open to community community and area so date. A large pantry has items are often in stock, groups. much. been created at St Hel- while pre-loved clothing The project has also “We are passionate www.swd.news/chapter en’s Parish Hall in Middle- is also being offered. received £500 from about reducing all kinds wood Green, which will be All of the food is being believe housing’s small of waste and supporting SEND US YOUR STORIES open every Tuesday and offered at a very low cost, grants programme to people in the commu- If you have a story you Thursday from 10am to with all income used help pay for extra equip- nity to access affordable would like us to cover, we 12 noon. towards collecting food ment needed to allow food. The project ticks would love to hear from you. The pantry was and running the project. doors to reopen after the these boxes as not only We are especially launched in March and Although primarily coronavirus pandemic. do we collect perfectly interested in good opened its doors briefly aimed at people living in Community Investment edible surplus foods, but news, be it personal before being forced to St Helen Auckland, the Officer at believe hous- we also unpack many achievements, local close at the start of the pantry will also be open ing, Kimberley Batey, items at the stores allow- fundraising, community pandemic. to people from all sur- said: “This project is ing them to recycle the service or any other The team behind the rounding areas. a great way of saving packaging that can’t be positive stories. Call us on initiative set up a corona- Almost £10,000 of money on your food shop recycled at home. 01388 775896 or email [email protected] virus community support funding for the project as well as cutting waste “Any foods unfit for project during lockdown, has come from believe at the same time. human consumption, to support those most housing’s community “The team worked tire- or past their best, are DISCLAIMER in need with free food investment programme. lessly to find other ways passed on to a local Bishop Press cannot be hampers. They also cre- The housing association to provide support to farmer which ensures held responsible for ated £5 food hampers for has supported hundreds those most in need dur- that we have as little advertisers offering delivery and collection of community projects ing the pandemic. But waste as possible. goods or services. during the pandemic, throughout its area, rang- it’s great that the team “We also hope to involve As a general rule we would which are still available ing from food banks to have been able to find a members of the local advise anyone not to for order and collection. netball clubs. way to safely open again; community by offering part with any money Extra social distancing The community pantry I know they were keen to volunteering roles to until an order has been measures, hand sanitiser project is the first to be get back to the good work ensure that the project completed to your and a host of other pre- funded under a new pri- they started before the is community led whilst full satisfaction. cautions have now been ority of reducing, reus- pandemic. helping them to feel val- All information is correct, introduced to allow the ing and recycling with a Joanne Iceton from ued, supported and to to the best of our knowledge, at the time of pantry to reopen. focus on innovative think- Little Chefs Big Chefs gain further skills.” printing. Bishop Press accepts articles in good faith and takes no responsibility for errors and/or omissions. Plans Drawn Self-employed? for I can complete your...

Planning Applications ✓ Financial accounts Support your local and ✓ Tax return community newspaper Building Regs ./ VAT return ./ Payroll by mentioning the 0800 781 4750 For a free, no obligation Bishop Press quote call 07922692989 today when contacting [email protected] or email [email protected] advertisers. www.sljprojects.co.uk rileyaccountancy.co.uk

2 Saturday 1st August 2020 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news

REDUNDANCIES LOOM AT THE AUCKLAND PROJECT our local community, FROM PAGE 1 both through our food Despite this, The Auck- project and by keeping land Project has contin- the Deer Park at Auck- ued to play a full part in land Castle open, which the local community with is free to enter and availa- projects such as Closed ble for everyone to enjoy. Doors, Open Hearts, set “We also plan to provide up to address food pov- some creative and arts- erty, supplying 20,000 based events for our local frozen meals and 1,000 community.” emergency food parcels The Auckland Project to local residents. has also announced that However, because of it is committed to contin- the implications of social uing construction work distancing restrictions on the Spanish Gallery, and the cost associated Faith Museum, Clock with staffing for re-open- Tower and the Castle Worshippers gathered in their cars to listen to the Sunday service, accompanied by Ichthus Music. ing when visitor numbers Curtilage and Gardens are likely to be low, the while the attractions are Mining Art Gallery, Auck- closed. CHURCHES GATHER TOGETHER land Castle and Auckland The organisation is Tower will not re-open an independent charity FOR OPEN AIR SUNDAY SERVICE before June 2021. which was established David Maddan, Chief through the generosity LAST SUNDAY (26th July) don’t have a car in which that is brought when the Executive Officer said of its founders including over 50 cars assembled to attend. community is determined “We have a responsibility Jonathan Ruffer, but the in North Bondgate Car Local community radio to put the difficulties of to take decisive action review has determined Park for a Drive-in Church station, Bishop FM, Covid-19 to one side and now in order to protect that a broader strategy worship. stepped in and the ser- move forward together. the charity for the long for the future, which Bishop Auckland Fel- vice can be listened to “So for those interested, term. is not so reliant on the lowship of Christian live from the comfort and 3pm is the time on each “We appreciate how dif- founding donations, is Churches, with the sup- safety of your armchair. Sunday afternoon in ficult the impact of the required. Central to this is port of Ichthus Music, Residents of local care August and the venue is redundancy consultation a need to generate finan- the Town Team, Auckland homes, who are also North Bondgate Car Park will be and understand cial contribution from its Project, 105.9 BishopFM, missing regular church or to listen in from home that not opening our commercial operation to Frank Hudson transport, worship, can also join on Bishop FM.” doors until 2021 will be invest back into charita- and the local community, local church worship Commenting on the disappointing to many ble work. enabled the people of maybe for the first time in innovative service, people. Liz Fisher, Director of Bishop Auckland to come years. Bishop of Durham Paul “It is a distressing and Curatorial and Engage- together for worship The service can be lis- Butler, said” “Bishop harsh reality, but one we ment, commented, “We for the first time since tened to again on the Auckland Fellowship of must accept if we are are fully committed to the March when lockdown playback option on the Churches Drive-In wor- going to protect as many vision we set out for The began and churches were radio’s website, and if you ship this afternoon was jobs as possible and cre- Auckland Project and the closed. want to attend in future really well put together ate a sound future for The part we can play in regen- Churches are slowly week’s, online booking and executed. Congratu- Auckland Project. erating Bishop Auckland. opening, but with many via Eventbrite is essen- lations to all involved.” “We remain entirely “As challenging as this restrictions in place, how- tial. Cllr Joy Allen added: focused on our guiding situation is, the proposed ever the car park service Spaces are limited, but “What a great example principles and we want to new structure will give us allowed a greater number all can be accommodated of the town’s people, do all we can to support the foundation to develop to gather safely together via the radio broadcast. churches and organisa- the local community. Dur- our work in the commu- and enabled the added Rev. Matt Keddilty tions coming together. ing the closure of our vis- nity as we look forward to bonus of singing at the spoke on the first Sunday, “It was very well organ- itor attractions we have welcoming visitors back top of one’s voice as the but other local clergy will ised, a great welcome continued to engage with in 2021.” congregation were ably take it in turns. and wonderful service led by the band in a mix- “It really was a gathering supported by an excel- WE HAVE MOVED TO LARGER PREMISES! ture of worship old and of the whole community,” lent band.” new. said Rev. John Purdy of More information is ONLY MINUTES FROM THE A1M, Some are still sheltering Bishop Auckland Method- available at facebook. Junction 60 and A689. Nav, L17 9DE at home, others remain ist Church, “and demon- com/bishopfellowship fearful of any social gath- strates once again the and at www.believein ering, while yet more positive encouragement bishop.org. 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3 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news Saturday 1st August 2020

Nik Turner from believe housing. HOMES ON FOR £8.5M UPGRADE MORE THAN 600 afforda- munsen Avenue will New care worker Billy Coyle outside Devonshire House in West Auckland. ble homes across County see the upgrades. Work Durham are in line for is expected to include major improvements as new roofs, fascias, and FIRST STEPS TAKEN INTO CARE ROLES part of a massive pro- improvements to insu- ’S ules was brilliant. Around on the sector by the cri- gramme by believe hous- lation. Some homes are newest adult social care a week later I had my sis. ing. also set to receive new workers are settling interview at Devonshire More than 200 people Streets in Bishop Auck- fencing and repairs to into their posts follow- House then my induction expressed an interest in land, Horden and paths. ing a recruitment drive and shadow shifts. care worker, domestic are among those set to On the opposite side prompted by the corona- “The transition from assistant and kitchen benefit from the £8.5m of County Durham, 69 virus pandemic. my previous roles to this assistant roles, with 24 investment during the homes in Seaham, 40 in Devonshire House in was fantastic – I couldn’t progressing into work. 2020/21 financial year. Horden and 38 in Wingate West Auckland was one ask for a better team. Its latest recruitment Work was held up by the are also set to receive of the first care homes If it wasn’t for the Care drive, matching appli- coronavirus pandemic upgrades to their roofs to make an appointment Academy, I wouldn’t have cants to opportunities in but is now due to start and other work to make through the campaign, had the specific train- their local area, reached on the first homes immi- them easier to heat and taking on new care ing online and the basic more than one million nently. maintain. worker, Billy Coyle, from knowledge to get me people via social media. The project is part of Executive Director of Bishop Auckland. started in the care sys- The academy also offers a 10-year, £138m pro- Communities and Cus- Billy was forced to look tem.” remote training and gramme of improvement tomer Services at believe for a change of a career Kathryn Cooper, man- development to provide work for existing believe housing, Nik Turner, said: during the coronavirus ager of Devonshire potential new staff with housing homes. Each “This investment is great pandemic and is enjoying House, said: “Billy came the skills they will need to home receives a tailored for residents because his new career so much to us with training and access opportunities in package of upgrades to it provides a massive he has now enrolled on DBS checks already in the sector. bring roofs and insula- upgrade to their homes. a level 2 diploma in adult place, which made the There are more than 100 tion, kitchens, bathrooms “But it’s also great for social care with the Care recruitment process independent sector care or electrical wiring up to the local economy. The Academy. He said: “I was much quicker and eas- providers in County Dur- the latest standards. The majority of the workforce unemployed, I decided to ier. This is a very busy ham, supporting adults completed homes will be is local and it’s ensuring give it a go and looked time for the care sector with social and physi- cheaper for tenants to jobs at a time when that’s it up on the link through and this recruitment ini- cal activities including heat and run. probably never been to the Care Academy tiative by the Care Acad- household tasks, per- One of the areas to more important. website and filled in my emy has certainly helped sonal care and attending benefit extensively will “We can’t wait to get details. There were 12 us. We don’t have much appointments. be Woodhouse Close started with this year’s to 15 units to complete time for recruitment at Opportunities are avail- in Bishop Auckland. work. Obviously we’ll online before my details the moment and to know able for anyone wishing Streets including Aclet be taking great care to were circulated to local that these candidates to work in adult social Close, Archer Avenue, ensure the safety of residential care homes have already been vetted care, including those Brooklands, Cheesmond everyone as the coronavi- and other companies in by the local authority and without prior experience. Avenue, Crawford Close, rus pandemic continues the private care sector. received some training is More information is avail- Douthwaite Road, Farn- to subside. “It took about two reassuring.” able at durham.gov.uk/ dale Square and Gud- “The team will be talk- weeks to complete all the County Durham Care careacademyrecruitment. ing to each customer training. I’m dyslexic so Academy launched the Regular updates can CAR BOOT SALE individually to make sure the support I was given fast-track recruitment also be found on the care To be held on that everyone is comfort- through the Care Acad- and training programme academy’s Facebook Land at Rosemount Road, able with the extra pre- emy to help me through in April in response to page at Care Academy South Church, Bishop Auckland, Co. Durham. DL14 6SY cautions we’re taking.” certain parts of my mod- pressures being placed Durham. (Road B6282, just off the A688) Every FRIDAY *********************** J. DUNN Public Entry from 12.00 noon A. 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4 Saturday 1st August 2020 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news

The senior reporters usu- demning them to death. ally bagged Weardale – it Other memories from the was better on expenses Bishop Auckland area and allowed for a couple include: of beers afterwards. *The day the Prince of Bishop’s adult court sat Wales paid a visit and on Mondays and Thurs- wondered what Mike days, the first up the Amos was doing there. steps from the cells on *The Bishop of Durham a Monday morning fre- who danced the Gay Gor- quently the familiar figure dons in gaiters at the of George Henry Wilson once and only press ball. (21 Lane Head, Copley) *Why pit closures who’d have been locked always seemed to be up after getting too much announced in the front drink in town and causing bar of the Cumberland trouble on the last Lock- Arms on a Thursday ey’s bus home. afternoon. On one such occasion, *An eventful trip to Unconsidered Trifles Turin to mark the cente- recalls, he faced court nary of West Auckland’s chairman George Cos- World Cup win. grove – avuncular local *Why Bishop railway sta- councillor and boss of tion burned on best coal. a factory at St Helen’s *The heir to millions – to whom he was only who fought Bishop for too well known. Banter the Liberals. ensued, at the end of *Ron Johnston, which the chairman won- Oxfam’s northern organ- dered what was to be iser – Bishop-based, done with the recidivist totally blind and utterly in the dock. indomitable. One of the region’s most popular journalists, Mike Amos has published his autobiography. “Dee,” said George *Dorothy Morton, who Henry, “tha’s not gan- into her 90s still enjoyed nin’ to dee nowt is tha, driving round in 32 CUP UNCONSIDERED TRIFLES - MEMORIES George?” and loved the attention “Nah,” said the chair- from lorry drivers. OF A JOBBING JOURNALIST man, “bugger off George *Geoff Hill, the English VETERAN NORTH-EAST home.” It was, says the a red and black Echo van, Henry and I don’t want to master who taught the journalist Mike Amos book, the perfect way for knew almost everyone see you here again.” author all he ever knew has launched Unconsid- Denis to go. and was frequently late. Evening meetings of about apostrophes and ered Trifles, a 390-page The Despatch was On one occasion, the Bishop Auckland coun- their ilk. autobiography embrac- edited by Arnold Had- book recalls, Bill had cil’s committees could *Clarrie Simon, the king ing 55 years in newspa- win, Spennymoor lad been sent to the just occasionally be of the penny-a-liners. pers – almost all with the and former Royal Marine Museum in Barnard lively, too, usually involv- Mike Amos became Northern Echo but the first Commando, its three Castle where the Queen ing free-spirited Escomb the Echo’s news editor in three years in the Bishop Bishop-based reporters Mother – well known councillor Jimmy Mudd 1978 but from 1985 until Auckland office of its sharing a leaky first floor around the museum – or clashes between redundancy in December sister evening paper, the office above a money was opening a new gal- brothers Bob and Charles 2019 wrote multi-faceted Northern Despatch. lender’s on the corner lery. By the time Bill had Middlewood, entrenched columns. He was seven Born and raised in Shil- of Newgate Street and parked his van round the on opposite political times named North-East don – one of twins – he Chester Street with three back, Her Majesty had sides. journalist of the year left King James I Gram- from the Echo and, in the already cut the ribbon. One memorable between 1988-2005, won mar School in 1965 with next room, two or three “Excuse me, luv,” said evening, St Helen’s mem- three national awards for three A-levels, recalls from the long-defunct Bill, doffing his familiar ber George Steadman – a his Backtrack sports col- the stick-wielding days Auckland Chronicle. A old hat, “but would you fireman – clashed ver- umn, was appointed MBE of headmaster Edward hundred yards further mind doing that again?” bally with a fellow mem- in 2006 for services to Deans and the more down Newgate Street the The Queen Mother ber and said he’d see journalism in North-East enlightened tenure as Middlesbrough-based looked up at the late him outside afterwards. and was an inau- head of Denis Weatherley, Evening Gazette also arrival. “Why certainly, In an alley at the back of gural member of the Pro- a well-known North-East had four reporters in an Mr Oliver,” she said, held the town hall, Steadman vincial Journalism Hall of singer and musician. equally small and no-less both ends of the ribbon pulled a gun – only a Fame. Mike had bumped into carcinogenic office. in one hand and the scis- starting pistol, as it tran- Unconsidered Trifles, Denis many years later, Even in those days, sors in the other while Bill spired, but not the sort of comprehensively and when the wise head was the book supposes, the got his picture for that thing you expect at the nostalgically illustrated, in his 80s, and remarked Gazette may have had night’s edition. The moral, works and health com- costs £10 softback plus how well he looked. more reporters in Bishop supposes the book, is mittee. He later appeared £3.20 postage and £22 Denis replied that there than it had readers. that you shouldn’t always in court. hardback plus £3.80 were three ages of man Down the main street believe what you see in The book also has a postage. It’s availa- – “youth, middle age towards the Market the papers. chapter on the fight, ble from Mike Amos and ‘my God you do look Place, the Echo and Des- Young reporters spent centred on Witton Park at 8 Oakfields, Middle- well’.” patch also had a “com- much of their time at the and remembering some ton Tyas, Richmond, A few weeks later he mercial” office, a base for magistrates court and of the village’s great North Yorks DL10 6SD – died while singing Swing affectionately remem- in the evenings covering characters, of 121 Co cheques payable to Mike Low Sweet Chariot with bered photographer council meetings, either Durham villages against Amos. Further informa- his son’s choir in Notting- Bill Oliver, who smoked in Bishop Auckland or in the county council’s tion, including details of ham, just as they reached Capstan, drank the occa- Crook, Shildon, Spenny- loathed Category D pol- on-line payment, from “coming for to carry me sional rum and pep, drove moor or up in Weardale. icy – effectively con- [email protected].

5 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news Saturday 1st August 2020

HOUSING PROVIDER EXPANDS COMMUNITY FUNDING GRANT coronavirus, such as social distancing advice. believe housing is keen to hear from com- munity groups in most parts of County Durham, A SUCCESSFUL funding and some neighbouring programme has been areas, with projects to expanded to cover pro- keep vulnerable people jects that will help com- connected and reduce munities recover from the isolation, projects provid- coronavirus pandemic. ing activities within the County Durham-based community and projects believe housing has to provide help with food already distributed more at a time when many peo- than £20,000 of funding ple are seeing new finan- to coronavirus related cial difficulties due to the projects. economic impact of the Wayne Furnell of The Bishop Auckland Cupcake Company, Angela Fielding and Diane Alderson from But now the hous- virus. Labyrinth, Councillor Joy Allen, James Wilson from DMC 4 Durham CIC, and Phil Elliott of Breaking Bread. ing association, whose believe housing Fund- catchment area includes ing Officer, Damian Pear- Chilton, is extending son, said: “Although we PRODUCERS AND CRAFT MARKET its community funding all hope that the peak programme to support of the coronavirus pan- recovery from the pan- demic is well behind us, LAUNCHES IN BISHOP AUCKLAND demic. we know that the need to BISHOP AUCKLAND’S and to have attracted it’s really exciting that The new ‘recovery support our communities first Producers and Craft an impressive line-up of it’s now underway. grants’ will follow the has not reduced at all. Market opened for busi- local independent busi- “This is an opportunity same model as the exist- “These new recovery ness on Thursday (30th nesses. to shop local and to sup- ing community funding grants are intended to July), four months later “Many of these traders port businesses based programme. help community groups than originally planned have gone out of their here in Bishop Auckland Applications for grants meet some of the huge owing to the coronavi- way during the lockdown or nearby. of up to £500 are open demand that we’re rus pandemic and coun- to support people locally, “More than that, with a to community groups, already seeing for sup- try-wide lockdown. and we’re sure plenty of long list of traders com- organisations or schools port in the rapidly chang- Operated by DMC 4 people will, in return, but ing on a Thursday, we’re that work in areas cov- ing world around us.” Durham, the Commu- keen to come out and excited that the ‘bustling ered by believe housing. Full details of recovery nity Interest arm of Dur- shop with them at this market town’ feel can A simple application grants from believe hous- ham Markets Company, new market. start to return to Bishop process will be main- ing’s Community Funding the market is bringing “Being an open-air mar- Auckland.” tained to ensure that fast Programme are available together local producers ket, shoppers can be The Producers and turnaround funding deci- online at believehousing. and craftspeople for a confident that it’s one of Craft Markets will take sions can take place and co.uk by selecting the ‘in monthly, open air mar- the safest ways to shop place on the last Thurs- get work underway. your neighbourhood’ tab ket in the town’s Market currently, but please day of each month in Recovery grants are and then ‘believe housing Place, with stalls open remember to socially Bishop Auckland Mar- intended to support pro- community grants’ from from 9.30am to 3.30pm. distance, be patient if ket Place, trading from jects that can be deliv- the left hand sidebar. The stalls include arti- queues build a little and 9.30am to 3.30pm. ered within two months You can also call the san breads, home-made make use of hand sani- Any business interested and follow current gov- Community Investment cupcakes, hand-crafted tiser provided.” in joining these markets ernment guidance on Team on 0300 1311 999. stoneware pottery, hand- Bishop Auckland Coun- should email james@ made soaps, craft beers cillor, Joy Allen, has durhammarkets.co.uk for and much more. been a keen supporter of further information. Colin Wilkes, Manag- bringing markets back to For further informa- ing Director of DMC 4 Bishop Auckland. tion and a list of traders Durham, commented: She added: “The joining the market, visit “It’s good to have finally national lockdown put facebook.com/bishop- launched the market this market on hold, but auckland-market. View our vehicles at www.rmhcarsales.com St Helen Auckland Retail Park, Bishop Auckland, DL14 9TT IF Electrical & Security IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW? 20 Years’ experience, serving 07582 570308 the Bishop Auckland area Crime and Road Traffic Offences • Matrimonial Family Now supplying • Children • General Litigation

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6 Saturday 1st August 2020 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news

Elections to Durham County Council are set to take place next James Burrell Builders Merchant has completed the renovation of its Bishop Auckland branch. May. HOUSEHOLDS URGED TO LEADING BUILDERS MERCHANT CHECK VOTER INFORMATION COMPLETES SIX-FIGURE RENOVATION HOUSEHOLDS IN Bishop County Durham. Elec- JAMES BURRELL Build- improve the customer “The new facilities have Auckland are being asked tions are taking place ers Merchant has recently facilities and open a made such a transfor- to check if the voter infor- next year and for every- completed the renovation brand-new merchandised mation which will greatly mation for their home is one to have their say, the of its Bishop Auckland Trade Counter. improve the customer correct. electoral register must branch. The branch has also experience. Elections will be taking be accurate. The project completes increased their current “We are encouraging place in May next year, “If you’re not currently the company’s renova- stock range so they can old and new customers therefore it is important registered, your name tion cycle over all 10 sites provide an even better alike to visit the new trade that residents make sure will not appear in the across the North East and service to the trade cus- counter and take advan- they are able to take part. messages we send. If Yorkshire. tomers in the local area. tage of our trade deals”. As part of Durham you want to register, the The company aims to Kevin Dawson, Regional The branch is currently County Council’s annual easiest way is online, or start the cycle again in the Sales Manager, said “Pre- operating with some new canvass, households will we’ll send you informa- near future to continuously viously the branch had procedures in place to soon receive a pack ask- tion explaining how to do evolve the high customer a small office and trade ensure the safety of col- ing them to check the this in the post.” service they provide. counter area which lim- leagues and customers. information currently held People who have moved The renovation has ited the range of stock the Visit www.jamesburrell. on the electoral register. recently are particularly allowed the company to branch could hold and com for further informa- Although the majority encouraged to look out expand the office space, display. tion. of households will not for the voter registration have to take action this messages and check the year if their details are details. correct, it is important It’s estimated that 36 that everyone follows the per cent of people who instructions in the pack have lived at an address that will be arriving in the for less than one year will James Burrell post over the next week. be registered. Builders Merchants David Collingwood, Dur- If you have recently ham County Council’s moved or your details are electoral services man- not included on the form, ager, said: “It is impor- you can go online to reg- We have recently completed the renovation of our Bishop Auckland tant that residents keep ister at www.gov.uk/reg- branch. an eye out for messages ister-to-vote. so that we can make sure For more information, We’ve expanded our office space and improved our customer facilities. We have also we have the right details call 03000 261 212 or increased our stock range so we can provide an even better service. on the electoral regis- email electoralservices@ ter for every address in durham.gov.uk. Unit 9, Hatfield Way, South Church Ent. Park, Bishop Auckland, DL14 6XF

Insulation Bricks Roofing Timber Civils Hardware Landscaping meikles solicitors Open a Trade Account today FAMILY CHILDREN WILLS Receive a minimum of £1000 credit limit on your account. PROBATE LPAs LITIGATION MENTAL HEALTH expresscollect EMPLOYMENT CONVEYANCING CRIMINAL

Ring or email Your order is checked The team collect your Turn up and collect YOUR LOCAL to place your order. over by the team. materials your goods. LEGAL EXPERTS wwww.jamesburrell.com | 01388 770 820 01388 451 122

7 For more news from Bishop Auckland and across South West Durham visit: www.swd.news Saturday 1st August 2020 Sport Local leagues, competitions and events... ANYONE FOR HOME TABLE TENNIS? ST MARY’S PREPARING THROUGHOUT LOCKDOWN TO RETURN TO PLAYING families have used table THE YOUNG players of U14s both reaching their tennis as a fun activity St Mary’s are prepar- County Cup finals. with equipment being ing to return to training “We’re also very excited sold out across several again with most of the to announce that we big retailers. 22 teams starting to play also have four weeks of As a result, Bishop friendlies very soon after summer football camps Auckland Table tennis missing out for the last starting next week for all club has teamed up four months. ages.” with Bishop Auckland “There are some very The summer camp will and Shildon Area Action exciting new U7 teams run Monday to Friday, Partnership (BASH AAP), with the Aces, Kings and 9am-3pm and is for any- Gaunless Gateway and Bishops raring to start one from school year 1 believe housing to pro- playing,” said club chair- and over. vide 100 ‘home ping pong man, Steve Coulthard. The cost is £12 per day packs’ for families in “We also have a mini or £50 per week with a Bishop Auckland and the tournament taking place 10% discount for addi- wider area. on 23rd August for teams tional siblings. AAP Coordinator, to enter with medals for The camp begins on 3rd Andrew Walker said: “I’m all players. August and runs for the delighted we could sup- “Unfortunately, like final four weeks of the port this project. Bishop other clubs, we had to summer holidays. Auckland Table Tennis cancel our presentation The camp is based at St Club do some excellent night, so most teams Mary’s but players from work in our community had to organise their own all junior clubs are wel- and this project will be Matt Porter with some of the table tennis packs. presentations. come. of great value to children, “We would like to con- To get involved in the young people and fam- to give this a go at home our physical and mental gratulate all the teams, camps, organised by ilies in what has been and stay active.” health to stay occupied. especially the teams get- TASC Football, contact a very difficult time for Lee Brownson, Chair “These ping pong packs ting to some cup finals St Mary’s Juniors or call everyone.” of the Gaunless Gate- are a great idea and we with last year’s U13s and 07508 801602. The packs are designed way Big Local said: “We were really pleased to make table tennis avail- are delighted to be able support them. able in all homes, using to contribute towards “This might be one NORTHERN LEAGUE TO KICK roll nets which can turn this great project which of the more unusual any flat service into a is going to have such a responses to the coro- OFF WHEN FANS RETURN table tennis table, such positive impact for many navirus pandemic we’ve as kitchen or dining table. families. It helps to meet funded, but it reinforces THE NORTHERN League the issue of spectators is They include two bats our local priorities from our work to support com- has declared that it resolved nationally. The and 12 balls giving fam- improving the health and munities during these dif- will start the new sea- fixture list will be released ilies the opportunity wellbeing of our local ficult times.” son “when spectators at this stage.” to play table tennis in residents to providing The packs are being dis- are allowed to attend The league has also the safety of their own activities for children and tributed across commu- matches.” decided that the League homes and some skill young people. nity partners to ensure “As set out in the FA’s Cup will not be staged challenge cards which “These home packs will these packs go out to timescales, the intention this season and will the club have produced. help families across the those will find them is to start league fixtures instead be replaced by a Matt Porter, Chair at Gaunless Gateway area useful the most. Anone on Saturday, September Division One Cup to run Bishop Auckland Table to keep active and have interested in a pack can 5th,” the league said in alongside the traditional Tennis Club said: “The lots of fun especially dur- get in touch with the a statement earlier this Ernest Armstrong Memo- whole point of the packs ing these unprecedented table tennis club who will week. rial Cup for second divi- is to share what we love times.” have some to distribute “However, this is still sion clubs. as a club about table ten- Funding Officer from directly, but numbers are subject to further discus- For continued safety nis with the whole com- believe housing, Damian limited. sions between the FA and reasons, there will be no munity and to give fam- Pearson, said: “While Contact Matt by email the Government. hard copy match pro- ilies who aren’t able to we’re all spending so at matt@bishopauckland “A final decision on the grammes, although clubs access their usual sports much more time at ttc.co.uk or call Matt on start of our new league are encouraged to pro- and activities the chance home, it’s important for 07411 018856. season will be taken once duce electronic versions. Tyres & Tests Ltd ISHOP UCKLAND CLUTCHES | BRAKES B All A BATTERIES | EXHAUSTS Makes COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF SERVICES GROUP AUTO - AUTOCARE GARAGE APPROVED of DIAGNOSTICS Tyres MEMBER OF THE GOOD GARAGE SCHEME MASTER GARAGE 2013 www.approvedgarage.co.uk Class Four, Five, 7 MOTs Member of the motor industry code of Practice Please don’t hesitate to contact us as we’re more than happy to help! 9 Chester Street, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL14 7LP Tel: 01388 604485 / 661339 / 605687 www.bishopaucklandtyreandtests.co.uk www.bishopauckland-tyres.co.uk Email: [email protected]

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