Published by Sedgefield Development Trust: Company No: 4312745 Charity No: 1100906

Sedgefield News Insert logo in black

Produced by volunteers for the villagers of Sedgefield, Bradbury & Mordon

February 2007

Stop Press! Christmas charity successes Relocation Relocation!

Cricket Club Xmas Talent Show After well over a year of waiting the Post office was finally relocated on The Annual Christmas Talent Show at the Cricket Club, once again January 26th to its new home on exceeded expectations and raised £350 for the Great North Air Ambulance. Front Street, between Peridot and Previous years, other charities have benefited from what was essentially a the Tanning shop, in what was fund raising effort, and has developed into the function it is today. Now in formally the Chemist’s shop. its 7th year in the current format, the show goes from strength to strength. Unfortunately, due to the wonderful This year it was organised by a 5 member committee and enjoyed, as ever, powers of technology, we had to by a packed house. Tickets are always in great demand and seats for 2007 close for two days while the are already reserved. computers were moved and up- Regulars commented that this show was the best yet, which gives the graded to broadband. Hopefully this organisers a headache for the next show. 22 individuals performed 20 spots will make the computers a little throughout a well organised evening show, the committee performing faster but only time will tell! another grand finale just before midnight. As a result our customers have had A big mention has to go to the artists, who have to perform professionally - to travel to other offices for their strictly no ‘al a Karaoke’ allowed here! It has been said that the talent is usual service; all we can do is there but hiding in the cupboards - we’ve just given them the platform... apologise for the inconvenience - it Next Year? Two of the committee members had resigned once again due to was a requirement of the Post the stress of organising the event... however, shortly after the success of it office and not ourselves. all they agreed to think about it once again as they have done year on year. As many of you will be aware we The month of October generally starts them twitching, and then thinking of have had an addition to our family a show, a couple of telephone calls... a get together... and then... what can in the form of a beautiful baby girl, we do next? Best Regards... The Committee! Ellen Laura, who if all goes to plan Santa’s collection hits new high point will take over the office in about

By the time all the cheques were in and the cash counted, our heroic Santa, eighteen years so I can take an Kevin Cook of Sedgefield, had actually raised £5,700 - even more than was early retirement! We would like to reported in the other local press - for the North Tees Neonatal Baby Unit . take this opportunity to thank everyone who gave gifts and cards. We have been overwhelmed by the Proud to wear the vest generosity of this community. So it’s a New Year, a new shop and a new baby. Remember if you don’t use your local post office you may lose us, so we look forward to seeing you soon. Richie and Sheri Our telephone number has unfortunately had to change. It’s now (01740)623851. Opening hours remain the same: 09:00 - 17:30 Monday to Friday & 09:00 - 12:30 on Saturdays.

Sedgefield Harriers (above) do it in uniform - page 7

Also inside: Get off the sofa and watch some real sport! page 6 Phill Nixon is honoured at DCCC. Wind Power: the debate continues on page 9 Chris Lines on ‘Dart-istry’ - page 6

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EXPERT ADVICE for FREE "POP-IN" to A PRIVATELY-RUN business support agency which has the POP IN CLUB helped start more than 200 businesses in County Durham has moved to Salters House here in Sedgefield. Now in its 15th year, the club is still increasing in pop-u-larity! The Enterprise Group has marked the start of its second year creating The following is an extract from new companies in the county by moving from its old base at Tursdale. the Annual Report to the Enterprise Group co-ordinator Mick Wood said the move was an indicator of Trustees, copied here for both the group's first-year success and its intention to improve general interest. on its 2005-6 results. "Our move to new premises will help us to improve our activity levels and growth after our successful first year" he said. "The Club opened in 1992 in "Last year's results - for example, creating 300 new jobs and helping to set Ceddesfeld Hall under the direction 207 businesses - were a tribute to the staff and our partners and a real of a steering committee of measure of how successful our approach is". representatives from the Sedgefield

Drawing from professionals within the group, as diverse as solicitors, Charities, the Rotary Club and the accountants, marketeers, website designers, IT advisers, community and Sedgefield Community Association social enterprise specialists the group adopts a ‘start up buddy’ mentoring (S.C.A.) The Club provides a point approach which includes bringing in the best available experts to help of social contact for the elderly and people develop their ideas into real life businesses. disabled of Sedgefield and the surrounding area. In particular, its Rated one of the best performing business start-up location in the centre of the village organisations in the North East the group intends to continue enables a walk home from the to adopt a no-nonsense approach to setting up and can be shops, health services, post office contacted on 0845 630 0620. Ask for Ed Henderson. and bank to be split into convenient stages. AND THE SERVICE REALLY IS Free As a section of the S.C.A., all members become members of the Association. Membership is granted to pensioners and their spouses. The Sedgefield Charities pays the administrative cost (rents, salaries disabled transport and secretarial expenses) of the club and the Rotary Club of Sedgefield Local man paints the Town contributes to the costs of social activities. Local man Owen Murr decided a successful corporate life undoubtedly had During 2006, visits to the three benefits but there were other things to life. Having always been keen on sessions (Tuesday and Wednesday DIY, particularly painting and decorating, he decided in the Autumn of 2006 mornings, Thursday afternoon), to contact The Enterprise Group to investigate setting up his own business. have been around 79 visits per After long talks with his wife Christine and a couple of sessions with week. Some of the 85 members Ed Henderson, Business Start-Up Adviser with The Enterprise Group, he come to each session. A taxi decided to take the plunge. service, every Tuesday morning is

Owen said "I was no different from many individuals, working for an provided for members who have employer and wondering what it would be like to be my own boss; talking difficulty in walking. to Ed the concerns quickly disappeared as he took me through the process The Supervisor's Fund generated of developing my business plan and ‘buddying’ me; generally my confidence by the receipts from the sale of grew. In December I undertook my first decorating job and since then I coffee and tea, has enabled three have had a steady stream of work". coach trips, to Whixley, Whitby and Morpeth this year. Afternoon tea The Enterprise Group is contracted to Business Link County Durham to was provided by the local W.I. at assist business start-up in the local authority areas Sedgefield, Easington, Whixley and Morpeth. At Whitby Derwentside, Chester-le-Street and Durham City. Their Sedgefield office is the members made their own conveniently located in Salters Lane. FREE advice is always available. arrangements using a cash grant To contact Owen Painting and Decorating from the Supervisor's fund. Easter Tel: 01740 620204(Office) 07847 006 125 (Mobile) and Christmas are treated as

To contact The Enterprise Group Tel 0845 6300 620 special occasions with seasonal refreshments and prizes, the latter donated by the Sedgefield & District Rotary Club. Roy Smeeton, Secretary.

Thanks are due to Norma Hissett (Supervisor), Joan Rollo and Betty Roper, for their continued help and the ongoing success of the club. If you are not already a member, why not "Pop-in" some time and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

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The Players’ Panto - a real family affair

The Sedgefield Players’ latest Panto was yet another resounding success - this year was the ever-popular Sleeping Beauty. Written by Alan P. Frayn, the panto played to good houses between Christmas and New Year. Veteran performers Viv Jacobs and Annette Lawson as Bad Witch Hazel and Fairy Lilac were joined by youngsters from the SPYS youth section of Sedgefield Players, who appeared as mini witches and a rainbow of fairies. Other SPYS appeared in major roles. 12 year old Tim Jasper brought great life, laughter and energy to his performance as Muddles, while 15 year olds Sarah McGuinness and Alana Baguley provided the romantic interest as Prince Alexis and Princess Rose. Alana’s Dad Paul was the Jacobs, husband of Bad Witch Hazel, also known as Viv, did an excellent job Players’ first male Dame for many a as stage manager, ensuring that the show ran smoothly. He and Viv had long year and rose to the occasion also done sterling work beforehand, designing and painting the set. manfully – or should that be Official Stage Manager Richie Parry was unavailable for panto this year, due womanfully? Real life couples also to the eminent arrival of the Parry’s own little Princess, but didn’t he do a had their parts to play. As Queen grand job of the Fireworks on New Years’ Eve? Marigold and King Cactus, Jean Chairman Norma Neal said the Players were delighted that the panto went Hewling and Terry West did their so well, especially as Productions’ Director Walter Howell, who also does a bumbling best to protect their great deal of work on staging, was taken ill in October. Happily, he is on the daughter Rose from the witch’s mend now, and in true Players’ style, everyone worked together to pull off curse, aided by those hapless heralds another theatrical success. The Players’ March production is “Ladies Day”, Fetch and Carry, also known as a comedy by Amanda Whittington, which is also their entry for the Isle of Jason Legender and Sarah Jones. Man Easter Drama Festival. Families figured very importantly this year, with the Jasper family taking the record. Tim agreed to step into Winner of the Christmas Sedgefield Round Table the role of Muddles after an adult draw for a trolley dash member had to drop out for work around Sedgefield Co-op, reasons, Dad David was invited to Kevin Jones of Sedgefield, produce sound effects and music, as successfully managed to get Sheri Parry was otherwise engaged £120 worth of groceries into producing lovely baby Ellen Laura. his trolley in the 1 minute Tim’s younger sister Ciaran appeared permitted, racing around the as a villager and Mam Julie helped shop at breakneck speed . front of house, as did Katy Many thanks to the staff and McGuinness, whose son Robert management at the Co-op, appeared as a villager and a witch as well as everybody who alongside sister Sarah as Prince bought a ticket. You raised Alexis. The Players were very over £300 that will go grateful to the team of people who towards the pensioners’ offered to help out in various party that is run in February. capacities during the run of the The trolley dash was the panto, including Michelle Johnson, end of a very busy year for who valiantly ran the front of house, Sedgefield Round Table as well as bringing along daughter which has seen the Sian to perform as a rainbow fairy in members doing many each show. Sisters Megan and Sarah charity fund raising events, Cant were joined by Caitlin Pell, Ellie including the Three Peaks Thompson and Lauren Easton to Challenge, which raised complete the rainbow line-up, which £1000 for Sunderland not only looked beautiful, but sang special baby unit. When you sweetly as well. see the shape of some of The audience enjoyed energetic those who took part it really dance routines from the girls of Winner Kevin Jones with his wife, Julia was a major achievement! Fishburn Dance and Drama, expertly Once again many thanks to all those who have supported choreographed by Gill Rowe. Garry Sedgefield Round Table throughout the year.

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COMMUNITY SAFETY PC Todd reports Sedgefield Village Neighbourhood Watch I can start my report this month on a positive note, that since mid Members’ update following Xmas meeting on 7th Dec. 2006 December only 5 crimes have been reported to the police. Village Constable Keith Todd was not available to attend the meeting The most serious of these was a however he provided his 2 monthly crime report for the Village. th burglary where the family car and Between 10th Oct. & 7 Dec. there were 16 crimes consisting of 3 Thefts; household items were taken. 1 Burglary; 12 Criminal Damage. Persons are now helping police with Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Sarah Norman & Crime Prevention their enquiries. Officer Neil Langthorne jointly reported on Dark Night Crime & Personal This is a timely reminder for you to Safety & re-emphasised the fundamental need for every householder to use check your own house security. timed lights and to show lights are on in the home. Think – lights and locks. To support this message they had brought timers & lights to the meeting - Over the past few weeks it has these were available to members at the excellent price of £1 for a timer come to my attention that a small with an Energy Efficient Lamp; they all sold, & orders for more were taken. group of youths have been keeping There was a lot of discussion between members and representatives themselves amused by climbing regarding Bogus and Cold Callers with some valuable ideas raised by over people’s gardens. This members. activity not only causes a nuisance C/man Ken Saiger described the November Organisations Fair as a major to residents, but causes damage to success for the Village and our Panel too. Several new members were fencing and plants. I would like to recruited and he gave specific thanks to Sarah & Neil for the loan of their know who these youths are. display boards, which made sure N/H/Watch were very visible on the day. Another prank by youths reported Under Age drinkers: a member raised this problem again and after much recently which has had serious frustrating debate there still appears to be no-one able / willing to help the consequences and a financial village to crack down on drinkers, or even respond to the regular gatherings burden placed on the owners was of them in our village. The same member recorded her very real fear that the act of placing a hosepipe we will one day experience a fatality in our village due to this practice. through a letterbox which resulted C/man Ken Saiger expressed his concern that the current “rumour mill” was in severe water damage. Again I indicating that there was a real possibility that we could lose further Police would like to identify any of the Constable presence in the village and that a Police Community Support youths responsible. Officer may replace him. Neal Langthorne responded by stating he was Until next month, unaware of any moves to reduce our Constable presence but he was aware Keith that the new PCSOs were nearing training completion and that we were Crimes reported: likely to get such an officer in the village soon. Matfen Court: Burglary Mrs. Mary Hodgson won the raffle; the prize was a hand knitted doll, kindly Stockton Rd : Theft donated by Mrs. Pauline Suddes. Following the meeting, Xmas savoury pies Eden Drive: Damage to car and pastries very kindly provided by Mrs Bell Saiger with a glass of wine, Cragside: Damage to car window were enjoyed and very much appreciated by all members present. Front St: Window smashed Members wish to convey their appreciation & thanks to Bell & Ken, for their unstinting support and continued generosity to the N/H/Watch Panel. Avoid the latest scam The Office of Fair Trading warns us NEXT Meeting Tuesday 6th February, Parish Hall 7 pm. ALL Welcome not to respond to a new scam. The STOP BOGUS CALLERS – DISTRACTION BURGLARY mailing from a business called ‘Paid Your local Neighbourhood Watch group promoted the Durham Trading Surveys’, states that it is a Standard’s initiative to set up Doorstep Crime Awareness Zones, which customer employment firm using has been endorsed by Durham Agency Against Crime, in this paper last ‘mystery shopping’ to assist month. Just to remind everyone, the aim is to deter unwanted cold callers companies in improving customer at householders’ doors, & to join the scheme you simply display a sticker service. Recipients are told they indicating that you don’t wish to be troubled by cold callers. Visible notices have been chosen as a secret will be sited around the village and these will highlight the message – No shopper and will be paid £350 for Cold Calling. their first assignment, said to The project is to be developed and rolled out across other areas of the involve posing as a potential County through Neighbourhood Watch Groups and other Community customer at a number of retailers Organisations. Sedgefield Village Neighbourhood Watch believe this is a real to evaluate their service. Recipients Crime Reduction initiative that will be of major benefit especially to the are asked to contact an agent for elderly and vulnerable in our community who are the usual targets of this detailed instructions. A cheque type of nasty, confidence eroding crime. made out to the recipient and So next month we will ask all householders to give their support to making allegedly backed by a reputable our village a “No Cold – Calling” zone too. We will issue voting slips in the bank, is attached to the mailing to March issue and to make it more interesting there will be the opportunity to cover pay and other expenses. The win a prize simply by returning your completed slip. victim is instructed to cash the

Telephone Nos: Community Warden Tim Spearey at Sedgefield cheque and then complete one of 623654 or via Chilton Control Room: 01388 721351 their assignments by posing as a Local Police:0845 6060365 - to report concerns, seek advice or pass on customer of a money transfer information to the Police (NB it may be prudent to keep a note of details of agency and wiring £1,500 to a fake any conversation & obtain an incident no). ‘relative’ at an address in Canada. For advice/assistance: Crime Prevention Officer Neil Langthorne: But the cheque is counterfeit and 01325 742714 & Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator Sarah Norman: the cash goes to the scammer. 01325 742755 Victims could lose over £1,500.

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countrymen. Klaasen is not a Sports Update with [email protected] typical dart-ist. He is young, slim and photogenic, so clearly doesn’t I must apologise in advance for adoring fans), John “Boy” Walton have a future in the game! monopolising this month’s update and Andy “The Viking” Fordham. I love – the nicknames, the with a focus on a particular passion Fordham won the event in 2004 dodgy walk on music, the ‘contro- of mine. I admit now that it hasn’t and is a very popular figure. He is versy’ (without fail there is always got a great deal to do with actually almost literally larger than life some apparent ‘aggro’ between keeping fit and healthy, other than (weighing in at anything between players during the PDC event, in the numerical dexterity sense! 26 and 30 stones) and not too long which generates headlines in the For 11 months, we hear virtually ago stated that he warmed up for press – mainly those titles owned nothing about the sport of darts each match with 20 bottles of lager by Sky TV owner Rupert Murdoch – (whether this is actually a sport at and six steak and kidney pies. This that help the viewing figures), the all is a moot point to some). Then, year, he was taken ill and didn’t shiny shirts, the nicknames, the around the turn of the year, two play his first round tie against masters of ceremony (“Let’s Play events take place in quick Australian , other- Darts” and all that), the commen- succession, both claiming to be the wise know as - wait for it - the tary, the crowds and of course the World Championships. I’ll explain. Wizard of Oz. brilliance of much of the actual First to the oche is the Professional Like some other sports I could dart-istry. I’m a traditionalist at Darts Corporation’s (PDC) top mention, darts is dominated by a heart, so although I watch both tungsten fest. This event boasts very few nations and the only events, my heart is with the BDO the backing of Sky TV and the country to really rival those from World Championships on the BBC. money that comes with that, along the UK has been the Netherlands. Yes, it’s in need of a makeover with players such as 13 times world won the (which has started to happen in champion Phil “The Power” Taylor BDO title four times before stages over the last couple of (he’s won both versions), Raymond defecting to the PDC, while last years) and is regularly shipping van Barneveld (who’s also won year’s winner on the BBC was a 22 players to the more lucrative PDC, both), Wayne “Hawaii 5-0” Mardle year old wonder-kid called Jelle but it remains my favourite (I’m and Peter “One Dart” Manley. The Klaasen, who himself has just tired of Waddell’s hero worship of PDC World Championships, held at crossed to the PDC with two of his Taylor and prefer Tony Green’s the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, are slick, glitzy and heavily promoted by Sky. The doyen of darts The Bookworm - a sporting life commentators, , the Local author and sports fanatic Steven Chaytor has published his latest voice of the event (supported by book and given Sedgefield Racecourse (see above) a starring role. Dave Lanning and John Gwynne), waxes lyrical about the sporting ‘Watching Sport Without TV’ (NORTHERN SPORTS prowess and ability of the likes of VENUES THROUGH THE EYES OF A MAN WITHOUT A SATELLITE Taylor. Waddell’s remarkable use of DISH) is part plea and part direct order to stop watching so much TV and hyperbole and metaphor really has get out to see some live sport instead - a much more satisfying experience. to be experienced first hand. This The book covers sixteen venues year, the final was a classic and nine sports, from European encounter between Taylor and PDC football to local league cricket and newcomer Barneveld, which the it details the good, the bad and the latter eventually won in a nail funny of being there in person. The biting final set on New Year’s Day. visit to Sedgefield races on a bitter Then there’s the rival British Darts January afternoon is indeed raw - Organisation (BDO) event, held for about as raw as it gets, actually! It over 20 years at The Lakeside, features the author taking an Irish Frimley Green. Broadcast by the friend racing for the first time and BBC, this has the longer heritage of he 'guesses' the first four winners the two. The first BDO World (insert your own comments about Championships, held in 1978, was the luck of the Irish). won by (whose Described in early press reviews as physique was unambiguously ‘dart- 'an invigorating...vivid taste of ish’). In the early years, classic north east life in the raw' and as arrow throwers such as Eric having 'a unique kind of humour', Bristow, and Jocky Steve’s latest offering sounds like a Wilson dominated the event and its must for sporting bookworms. image was not exactly a picture of ‘Watching Sport Without TV’ is health (for a ruthless lampoon, see available from all the usual high the classic Not the Nine O’clock street and online booksellers for News sketch on Youtube. £6.99 or more conveniently, from Since the ‘schism’ of the early Sedgefield Post Office and Library. 1990s that led to the formation of As it says in the book, “choose an the PDC, other players have come event and go buy a ticket”. to the fore in the BDO, such as Martin “Wolfie” Adams, Ted “The If you have enjoyed a particularly good read, why not share it with the rest Count” Hankey (who arrives on of us? Send your review to Sedgefield News, 58 Front Street, stage in full Dracula costume Sedgefield TS21 2AQ or email [email protected]. distributing small rubber bats to his

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words of wisdom on the BBC). This year, and here’s the local connection, the BDO final was fought out between Martin “Wolfie” Adams and Phill “Ferryhill Flyer” Nixon. Nixon was a virtual unknown when the event began, but was the surprise of the championships as he arrowed his way to the final. His local fame spread as the likes of the Northern Echo followed his progress, giving him great press coverage as he reached the latter stages of the tournament. Although Adams eventually won the title, Nixon fought back from a seemingly hopeless situation to take the match to the wire and prove that he deserved his place in the final. Based on the handicap scoring collective feeling of pride when the Along with Phill Nixon, three other system he finished second overall. Harriers pull on their distinctive players from North East England Full results on the Harriers website. blue and white vest and line up for reached the latter stages – Davy The course was well marshalled the start. The club meets outside Richardson, Tony Eccles and Gary and timed by non competing Sedgefield Community College on Robson. I hope that they all stick Harriers and family members – a Wednesday & Friday evenings at with the BDO and the Beeb – it’s big thanks from the club to all of 6.30pm and Sundays at 8.30 am. the real home of darts and provides them. A Summer Handicap Run will New members always welcome, see an entertaining and compelling be run on the same course – all www.sedgefieldharriers.com or call start to the sporting year. runners welcome. 07771 828568. Although inspired by a month of Proud to Wear the Vest Rugby darting heaven to hunt out my own Replica shirts of our local football If you are a rugby union player or darts & board (reminding me how teams are in strong evidence would like to take up the sport, you incompetent I am with tungsten!), around Sedgefield at the weekends may be interested to hear that this doesn’t really help me get fit and are always worn with pride and some like-minded enthusiasts hope again after the festive season, so a sense of belonging. On most to reform a senior team for it’s good to see there are plenty of Sunday mornings the same thing Sedgefield and start a junior team. other options for those who have happens in reverse – and there is An open meeting takes place at st made sporting resolutions. no less feeling of pride! Most local 7pm on 31 January in the Golden Sedgefield Harriers races have a strong contingent of Lion to gauge interest and discuss The Harriers kicked off 2007 with Sedgefield Harriers competing and next steps. If you don’t get this their Winter Invitation Handicap on wearing the vest with pride issue of the newsletter in time and Sunday 14th January. The 6½ mile representing the club and the town. want to know more, please call course followed an undulating and Fame is spreading wide and the James Forster on 07956 930005. scenic multi-terrain route, taking in club is often recognised by race Cricket Fishburn and Bishop Middleham, organisers when the names are Early warning: Sedgefield Cricket using off road trails and old railway taken and race numbers handed Club will soon be preparing for the routes. out. At the Old Monk 6 race at new season with nets sessions. th Despite freezing cold temperatures, Hart on 7 January Sedgefield also Sedgefield enjoyed an outstanding a flooded car park, and a wind-chill had representation when the 2006 and looks forward to building to deter even the brave, there was awards were being made. on that success this year. Nets will Sedgefield’s own Gary Hethrington take place on Sundays at the club a good turn out. 33 runners took rd th part, representing clubs including finished 3 for the men and Rosie for five weeks from 11 March, 2- rd Billingham Marsh Harriers, Crook, Sims was 3 in the women’s race. 4pm. For further information call Newton Aycliffe, NE Veterans and The Sedgefield vest has been seen Martin Lower on 07862 715006. of course Sedgefield Harriers. The at large events like the London Football Harriers’ best results were a Marathon and the Great North Run Can you help Crosshills FC create a Hetherington double. Gary came in as well as at local events including club badge? Club management has first position (Veteran 45 Men’s the Northumberland Coastal Run, accepted that its own design efforts category and overall) in a race time the Blaydon Race, Raby Castle, have not really worked (that’s the of 37mins 10secs, while Amanda Redcar, Loftus, Nottingham, North polite version). If you think you can put in a great run to finish second Tyneside, South Shields and more. help please email me or call for the women (V40W) in a time of Some of the runners enjoy(?!) fell 623090. 51:24. Overall winner of the racing, competing over the North As ever, please send your sporting women’s race was Susan Milburn of York Moors and the Durham Fells. to [email protected]. I’m off to Newton Aycliffe finishing in 50:03. To ‘fly the flag’ on their own streets prepare for a career in darts – I Sedgefield Harrier Gail Bell was the Harriers wear their vest when need to work on my physique, buy third placed for the women (Senior running in the monthly time trial a shiny shirt and develop an oche Women’s) in 49.42. The fastest which starts and finishes at the persona and a corny nickname. time of the day was put in by Ian Community College on the last Lastly, I’ll have to learn how to hit Twaddle of Durham with 35:35. Wednesday of every month. the board! That’s all for now from Wherever they are racing there is a Chris “Double Yellow” Lines.

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Hardwick Hall Marquee noise Farmers' Market Report open letter to management & residents Some stallholders take a well earned break in January but there 1. Measurement of noise levels: this should be carried out by the were still 9 stalls at the Market: management of Hardwick Hall throughout the event [an accurate enough Mellanby's (vegetables), Larberry noise meter can be bought for less than £80]. Sedgefield Borough Council Farm (beef, lamb & eggs), cannot be contacted until the next working day. Police have sufficient Patterson's (fish), Rushyford Game, powers to confiscate equipment if a continuing nuisance has been reported; Northumberland Cheese, concerts at the end of the year attracted that level of complaint. Broom Mill Farm (pork & beef), 2. Opposition to "The Manor Born" concerts resulted in representation Low Leazes (organic vegetables) to the Borough Licensing Committee. In the period of "consultation" leading Joanne Martin (cakes) and Ings up to the 2005 Manor Born concert the organizing company - Blend - issued Meadow (plants) a whole forest of documents which included: “Overview of noise We thought that trade would be containment and monitoring” slow but the residents of Sedgefield 1) Noise is defined as a problem should it cause true disturbance to others, are very loyal and business was causing genuine hardship. These can include interrupting the pleasure of surprisingly good. A big thank you watching television to stopping people sleeping or waking them once to those of you who braved the asleep. horrible weather - it's very much 2) We define a disturbance if noise is audible at the point of disturbance, appreciated! i.e. sitting in front of the television or in a bedroom. Should access to a February should see the return of property not be available the following calculation can be made to judge Pickled Pink Preserves, Burtree disturbance from the front door or as close a reasonable to the exterior of Farm, Loopy Lisa, Weardale Soup the property. For frequencies below 500 Hz Noise levels of a maximum 3Db and Skinningrove Wine. above ambient are allowable. If you haven't visited the market For frequencies above 500 Hz Noise levels of a maximum 3Db above before - come and find us on the ambient are allowable. This is the safe noise-reducing factor of the average Village Green to see good quality, UK building. If buildings have windows and doors open these figures will be proper, local food on your readdressed at the point of disturbance. doorstep. The next market is on 3) All noise pollution requires a mixture of scientific measurement, human Sunday 11th February. Hope to hearing and common sense adjudication within guidelines set by the event and local authorities." I note that at least one government guidance document suggests that the Scouting - maximum noise level at the boundary of the premises, in this case 100 years young Hardwick Hall Hotel should not exceed 65 dB(A) so as to avoid unnecessary disturbance to neighbours. However the Licensing Committee refused to On Saturday 20th January young issue a license with limits on the noise levels - being satisfied with an Scouts from Sedgefield launched assurance from Hardwick Hall and its solicitor. the centenary year in spectacular 3. Music at the recent concerts, at all frequencies, penetrated my house fashion, with a balloon for every from ca 9-10pm until midnight or later. Normal ambient noise at my member, from the youngest Beaver property is around 65dB(C)/55dB(A): at about 11 pm last night (16th) the Scout to the oldest Leader. noise was more or less constant at 84dB(C). My boundary is about 500 The balloons took to the air from metres from Hardwick Hall boundary. It seems to me that the Hardwick Ferryhill, one of the highest points management team permits its marquee musicians to crank up the volume in the Scout District, and extra willy nilly, presumably on the ‘never mind the quality feel the width’ balloons were needed because principle. numbers locally are increasing R. Smeeton steadily. For the past five years the message has gone from youngster to youngster that they enjoy Scouting. It seems it is not just the Sedgefield Singaround youngsters who are getting the message; adults can also be involved and have fun. District Charity Night Commissioner, Ian Johnson, said “Scouting reaches far and wide, just like these balloons. This Saturday 10th February spectacle shows everybody how Scouting is fun. We will be enjoying Hope Inn, Sedgefield (Backroom) ourselves for the full year”. The Bishop Auckland Scout District 8.00pm – 11.00pm boasts eighteen meetings every week locally, as well as nine Explorer Scouts (including some £2.50 (Pay at the door) from Sedgefield travelling to join

40, 000 others for a lifetime Come along and experience at the World Scout Jamboree in July and August. You can learn more about the listen, sing, play Scout Movement from Ian Johnson on 0845 0944 084 or at and enjoy. bishopauckland@

durhamscouts.org.uk

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a conversation. Thanks to advances WIND POWER: This month the ‘pros’ respond in wind turbine technology, well- ACE - Alliance for Clean Energy Wind power is a vital part of the designed, well-sited turbines can Sadly, a small group of opponents solution to climate chaos. It is be quiet enough to cause no of a proposed wind farm near clean, safe, cheap and ready to go disturbance to people living just a Sedgefield are spreading myths now. It's popular, too. In poll after few hundred metres away. At these and misinformation about poll, 80% of people support wind distances, any noise they do make wind,turbines. The actions of SWAT farms, with less than 10% against. is usually drowned out by the (Sedgefield and Wynyard Against We are convinced that the vast natural noise of the wind itself in Turbines) are very irresponsible as majority of residents of Sedgefield, the trees and vegetation. So for they are causing unnecessary Trimdon, Fishburn and Wynyard those living near, there will not alarm and fear, especially to elderly support the Butterwick Moor need to be any worries. people. It is completely wrong to project and that our support can I can understand worry and I can suggest that wind turbines are lead to planning permission being understand concern, but if we as a detrimental to human health, as granted. community at least try and SWAT claims. No such problems For more information or to support understand the reasons behind this have been experienced in the ACE campaign, please contact Wind Farm and how it can benefit Denmark, with a wind turbine me, E. J. Joss, on 07833527379 us, we can be a leader in renew- density currently around 30 times able energy, and an example to that of the UK. Wind: A Powerful Attraction other communities who fear the Fortunately, ACE, a local pro-wind Over ten thousand people flocked Wind Farm, and the ‘terrible stigma group has formed to support to their local wind farm this August it will bring’ we can show there is

Butterwick Moor Wind Farm; to set Bank Holiday to experience the real better way. Keith Royal the record straight and give voice power of wind energy and to enjoy Wind Farms to the vast majority of people who a host of free activities for the At the beginning of this year two of support wind power. Our first family. The ‘Wind Weekend’ event our older nuclear power stations action was to report SWAT to the encouraged people to visit one of closed down for good. In the next Advertising Standards Authority for the flagship wind farms opening few years several more will close. making unsubstantiated and across the UK as part of a national Britain urgently needs to build untruthful claims. We are awaiting celebration of wind energy. more power stations, nuclear, the ASA's verdict on two separate Yet in this area we seem opposed conventional, wind and wave. We complaints, and are confident that to change, why do we only see the must not depend on one type of they will be upheld. negative side of having a local wind generator or on one foreign source Residents should therefore take farm? The UK’s first commercial such as Russian gas. SWAT's claims with a very large wind farm at Delabole in Cornwall Is it not somewhat hypocritical of pinch of salt - and SWAT should be received 350,000 visitors in its ten the anonymous SWAT writers to very careful about any further years of operation. Wind Farm complain about the “irreversible literature it may decide to publish. developers are often asked to ruination of our fast diminishing We must have a calm and provide a visitor centre, viewing countryside” when their huge reasonable debate, based purely on platforms and rights of way to their estate at Wynyard was built on the facts. Level heads must prevail. sites. If this is the case, this will beautiful classical parkland? Very shortly, ACE will circulate its encourage tourism, as they are The wind turbines that I have seen own leaflet about wind power, with often user-friendly sites. around the country look, in my information from respected and The primary concern is not the opinion, to be quite majestic, unlike accredited sources. efficiency for its own sake, but to the coal and gas fired stations with New nuclear power stations would improve productivity in order to their accompanying huge cooling completely undermine the bring the price of wind energy towers. The point about cement renewable energy revolution. Not down. In other words, Wind Farms production is irrelevant, as all only are they extremely dangerous will reduce the price of electricity power generators use a large and expensive - they are also bills through time. The electricity amount of cement, particularly completely unnecessary. A generated by wind power will never nuclear. There is no evidence of combination of renewable energy run out, whereas resources of fossil wind farms impacting on peoples’ technologies, energy efficiency fuels are reckoned to run out within health. At Butterwick footpaths and measures and decentralised energy the next fifteen years. This is why bridleways will be enhanced. (power produced near where it we, the community, have to make The public should be aware of used) can provide us with all the the change for the future. Not only scaremongering through power we need. Wind power is a will fossil fuels run out, but we also misinformation before making any vital part of this clean energy mix know that burning coal, oil and the decisions to oppose the plans. and has a massive job to do in like is leading to long term changes I am very much in favour of the terms of drastically cutting our CO2 in our weather that could be costly proposed wind farm development emissions as well as helping to and harmful. I can even notice the at Butterwick. Haydn Neal destroy the case for nuclear new- changes in the weather recently. build. Nuclear can't even make a Let’s power our homes using clean SEDGEFIELD TOWN COUNCIL significant impact on the global energy from renewable sources! has arranged an OPEN MEETING warming front. Building 10 new I’ve visited a wind farm and seeing on Thursday 1st February nuclear reactors would only deliver the turbine blades sweeping at 7.30 p.m. in the Parish Hall. a 4 per cent cut in CO2 emissions through the air with only a whisper EON, who have applied for by 2024, even at the most was quite a surprise. Standing near permission to erect 10 turbines on optimistic build rate: too little, too the foot of the turbine my friends Butterwick Moor, will give a late to help combat climate chaos. and I could quite comfortably hold presentation and answer questions.

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Announcements in the Diary are free February Diary to non-commercial organisations

Sunshine Corner Sedgefield Farmers’ Market 101 Gigs in February Bible stories & fun for pre-school Sunday 11th February children. Fridays 10am – 11am on the Village Green

Wind Farm Open Meeting Sedgefield Town Council Thursday 1st February Monday 12th February at 7pm Parish Hall, 7.30pm Family History Group Bingo at Ceddesfeld Hall (branch of Cleveland FHS) Saturday 3rd February Monday 19th February Doors open 7pm - Eyes down 7.45 7pm Sedgefield Library Cash Prizes, Bar open Please note change of time and Everyone welcome venue for this meeting only Members’ Queries and Sedgefield Cricket Club Problems Evening Quiz Night Bring along your own family history Saturday 3rd February research; perhaps we can help with presented by Ryan Davey finding those elusive ancestors Bar opens 7.30 pm for 8 pm start Wynyard Planetarium & Everyone’s welcome! Ferryhill, Sedgefield & Observatory District Flower Club Friday 2nd February 7:30pm Local History Society Tuesday 20th February Pyramids in the Sky Monday February 5th in the Parish Hall at 7.30 pm Friday 16th February 7:30pm 7.45pm in Ceddesfeld Hall Demonstration by Mildred Stafford What’s Up in the night sky? Annual General Meeting Steel, Style and Simplicity John Jenkin will bring a selection of All welcome Fridays 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd “Bygones” Come and see if February 9pm Public Observing outdoors you can identify them! Sedgefield Wildlife Group Everybody welcome! Thursday 22nd February If you know anyone lucky enough at 7.45 pm in the Parish Hall to be given a telescope for Xmas, Sedgefield Garden Society Durham Otters with Terry Coult bring them along to the Tuesday 6th February Contact Steve Ashton on 620559 TELESCOPE CLUB

in Ceddesfeld Hall at 7.30 pm Everybody welcome Friday 23rd February 7.30pm Tommy Johnson talking on in the Planetarium. There should be Garden Chrysanthemums Sedgefield Cricket Club plenty of volunteers on hand to Live Music Night help out. Tel: 01642 365119

Sedgefield Neighbourhood Saturday 24th February at 8pm Watch & Crimewatch Panel Main guest – Mambo Jambo Round Table Tuesday 6th February Also featuring 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursdays in the Parish Hall at 7 pm – Huggins and Muggins, Sporting, social and charitable All Welcome John Weighell, Andy Joyce and the events - new members welcome John Wrightson Band Contact Rob on 629079 Sedgefield W.I. Admission £8 includes buffet Country Market Wednesday 7th February Tel. 621347 th Friday mornings 89 Birthday Dinner The Cricket Club is available for hire for private parties, free of charge. in the Parish Hall 7:15pm Parish Hall nb Members to arrive 6:45 for 7pm To book, ring 620927 St Edmund’s Church

Sedgefield Civic Trust February at the Library Book Baptisms & Weddings on Thursdays: 6.30 -7.30pm The next meeting will be held on th Tickle Time Songs, rhymes, etc Thursday 8 February for babies to 18 months. at 7pm in the Parish Hall … and in March … Monday 5th February 2.15 - 3pm Everybody welcome Rhyme Time Bingo at Ceddesfeld Hall Sedgefield Twinning Wednesday 7th February Saturday 3rd & 31st March

Association Stories, songs & rhymes for Local History Society Saturday 10th February under 5’s, from 10am - 11am Monday 5th March - Dinner at 7.30 followed by AGM at Stay & Play Toy Library County Archaeologist 8.45pm and planning for Wednesday 28th February 25th Anniversary - All welcome 10am - 11am Sedgefield Garden Society For meal (£8) contact Book circle Tuesday 6th March - Orchids Nancy Wells on 620467 Wednesday 21st February Mayor’s Charity Dance Sedgefield Singaround 2pm - 3pm March 2nd Saturday 10th February Half Term Crafts - look out for Contact Sedgefield Town Council 8pm at the Hope Inn (Details p.8) ‘what’s on’ in the library Telephone 621273

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S.W.A.T - Sedgefield and Wynyard patients names of other NHS

against turbines - would like to Your Letters dentists with whom to register. In thank everyone for the truly Dental Provision Changes February I did ring the PCT and amazing response, which we have My husband and I have read with request another NHS Dentist (our received from the people of interest, the articles and letters practice at that time was only one Sedgefield and surrounding areas. related to the cessation of NHS of two who chose not to accept the Much more on the Wind Turbine dental care in Sedgefield. Although new contract). I was told, in no debate on page 9 we are unaffected by the uncertain terms, that although two

Sedgefield practice, as our Dentist dentists had registered their Renee Chapman interest in having additional It was nice to read that Tim Jasper of over three decades is in Stockton, we were affected in patients, I could ‘write to them to has been successful in the Sid request our names be added to Chaplin Short Story Competition. February 2006 with his withdrawal from NHS dentistry services their waiting list’. In no way were Congratulations, Tim. we guaranteed other NHS Dental However, it is about Mrs Renee controlled by North Tees PCT. I would like to point out that the Care by either of the two dentists Chaplin that I would like to write. in Eaglescliffe and Hartlepool. I was Renee was my Sunday School Care Plan offered by the Sedgefield Dentist is by no means the only also told in no uncertain terms that teacher, way back in the 40s at as I had last seen my dentist for a Ferryhill Station Methodist Chapel, plan available when dentists decide to offer private treatment rather check-up four months previously, I along with her friend Sadie had over a year to find a dentist as Woodward and the Wilson sisters (I than NHS treatment. In contrast to what seems to have occurred in ‘NHS Dentists would only be paid can't remember their Christian for seeing a patient every 18 names), and Arthur & Harry this village, our Dentist informed months’. Bulman & Wilf Myers. patients of his decision and offered private health care under the guise Clearly this was unacceptable to us I am sure they must have found it as patients and to our Dentist, who difficult, at times, to teach us about of a monthly insurance package with an established company. wished to provide a professional, Jesus and the Christian religion, but thorough service. Accordingly, we they persevered! Whilst it is true to say that under the NHS we collectively paid on joined the scheme and regard It was nice to see the photograph ourselves as fortunate that whilst of Renee, still going strong. Of the average £100 a year for twice- yearly check-ups and the our Dentist reduced his patient other teachers, I know that Arthur numbers by almost two-thirds, we Bulman is still working with occasional filling, and under the monthly contract we now pay £30 were amongst the third to remain Ferryhill Village Methodist Chapel, with him. It is more costly, but we where, in his nineties, he still plays (a substantial increase), we do not pay for treatment or inspections at still have six-monthly appointments the organ, regularly! Well done and and the time our Dentist spends keep going, to Renee and Arthur, each visit. Registration with another with each individual greatly and to any of the others who may exceeds the time previously read this. Dentist. Another misconception seems to be that the PCT will give available. Having had a colleague David Hillerby whose Dentist alerted him to the fact he had throat cancer, the STAR LETTER A beautiful ambition fulfilled autocratic way the NHS decided it was not necessary for patients to In an earlier Sedgefield News it was mentioned that there may be seen every 6 months, and for be bulb planting in Ceddesfeld Hall grounds. I would just like to the allocated consultancy time to say that my husband Ian with a little help from myself has be so diminished, filled me with already planted at least 2,200 daffodil bulbs in the grounds. dread. To date our Dentist sees the Ever since we moved into our bungalow, it has been one of the children of his registered patients things that Ian has always wanted to do; we walk the paths on the NHS. round the ponds at least once a day and have always said the I hope this offers previously grounds needed some brightening up. misunderstood information on At last this year, after obtaining permission from the council, Ian set to A) an alternative way of paying for with his bulbs and has planted both sides of the main path from the hall up private dental care, rather than the to and a little beyond where the path branches off to Eden Drive. privilege of being registered with a The last few yards were planted a few days before Ian went into hospital practice and paying additionally for for major surgery on a cancerous growth in his mouth and jaw. Luckily his treatment, and B) the fact that operation has been successful, although the treatment is ongoing and registration with another NHS recovery will take a long, long time. dentist is not automatic. Good luck I noticed recently that the bulbs are starting to push through the ground to those who are searching for and by Spring, hopefully there will be a good display of daffodils for people other NHS provision, and to the to enjoy for years to come. For myself, I only thank the Lord that Ian is community who hope to attract still with us to enjoy the fruits of his labours as he walks our old dog NHS dentistry to this village. around the pathways of the hall. Yours sincerely, Connie Spring Roslyn Willis

Copy for the March issue of Sedgefield News by February 15th please to 58 Front St, Sedgefield, TS21 2AQ: phone 01740 629011 or [email protected] Views expressed in Sedgefield News are not necessarily those of the publisher: we are impartial & independent. We may edit contributions and will not publish letters of unknown authorship - please include your contact details in all correspondence

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