www.durham.gov.uk DURHAM Summer 2017 County News The magazine for people in

BRASS is back!

Do something different - volunteer!

Top picks for summer events and activities

Win Hardwick Live or Open Treasure tickets and more Summer is a great time to be outdoors, WELCOME go somewhere different and form new to the summer edition of friendships and memories. Durham County News This issue of Durham County News is packed full of activities to help you do just that. An eventful bank holiday in Durham City (page 3) sets the stage for a summer of festivals, events and celebrations across the Councillor Edward Bell, Chairman of the council county including the annual BRASS festival, Durham Miners’ Gala, The Bowes Museum 125th anniversary celebrations and the return to of Kynren - an epic tale of England (page 21 onwards). Summer is also the best time to enjoy our beautiful coastline. The Reach for the Beach Festival is a great way to experience Durham’s Heritage Coast and while you’re there, visit our new travelling artwork, Ps in a Pod by artist Louise Plant, (pages 24 and 25). And with so much going on, parks, open spaces and coastline to maintain and activities to support, find out how you can make a difference through volunteering (pages 6 and 7). I hope you enjoy reading the magazine and you can find more stories and videos online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn Edward Bell

Competition entries Inside... Competition entries should be received by Page Page Friday 9 June 2017 (unless the competition 4-5 14-15 states otherwise). Pop your entries in one News Durham, a beacon for envelope (don’t forget to use a stamp!) and business post to Durham County News, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham Page Page DH1 1RH or drop them in to reception at any 6-7 16-19 of our access points. NEW - you can now Volunteering Local news pages enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Durham County News is written and designed by Durham County Council, printed by Acorn Web Page 8-9 Page 21­-23 Offset Ltd and distributed by The National Leaflet Children and young people Top picks for summer Company and Royal Mail. It costs 16p a copy. including BRASS and The Bowes Museum anniversary To contact the editorial team, call 03000 268 059 or email [email protected] Page 10-11 Page 24-25 Please ask us if you would like this document Green living Out and about summarised in another language or format. Braille Audio Large print Page 12-13 Page 26-31­ [email protected] Adults and health What’s on 03000 268 059

When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it. Front cover: Mr Wilson’s Second Liners perform at Streets of BRASS (see page 23). Bank holiday treats

Durham City is hosting some great events over the holiday weekend.

Hot Air Balloon Festival Friday 26 to Monday 29 May ’s Houghall Campus, outskirts of Durham City A visually impressive hot air Tour Series cycling balloon festival with up to Saturday 27 May photo: Gay Pride Pics 20 commercial and privately owned hot air balloons South Street, Durham City Durham Pride launched over Durham City. Now in its ninth season, The Tour Series Sunday 28 to Monday 29 May The dawn and dusk balloon organised by the team behind The Tour The Sands, Durham City launches should offer of Britain returns. For the first time the Durham Pride returns with a rainbow budding photographers city will be hosting it on a Saturday! of colour to celebrate and promote excellent camera Cheer on professional cyclists as they take inclusivity and diversity in County opportunities as balloons on Durham’s cobbles in a thrilling test of Durham. rise over the Cathedral. their skill and speed as riders from seven There’ll be fun for all at the family picnic www.durhambid.co.uk professional men’s teams battle it out (no alcohol) on Sunday 28 May from 11am over ten rounds during the early evening. to 4pm. Then join the party from 12noon www.tourseries.co.uk on Bank Holiday Monday by taking part in the parade and enjoying live Did you Watch a video of last year’s event at entertainment, a fairground and stalls. Know?? Durham City www.durham.gov.uk/dcn has been named the Most Cultured City facebook.com/durhamprideUK by TotallyMoney.com This issue is packed full of festivals, events and celebrations across the county, see pages 21 onwards and our What’s on section.

The Tour Series Following a visit to see The Tour Series in 2013, cycling has taken over the lives of inspires the next the Kinghorn family from Durham. George took his eldest son Tyler to see The Tour Series and Tyler was so inspired that generation he asked “Dad can you get me a road bike?” Now the whole family ride regularly, George has become a cycling coach and his wife Marcia is currently completing a coaching course. George formed Durham City Vélo in 2015 and the club currently has over 100 members. George said: “The main focus for most club members is the weekly club run, always paced “...club currently has to accommodate the slowest rider, and we never leave a over 100 members. person behind. “ ” If you are inspired to take up cycling, you can find out more about cycling activities, and clubs including Durham City Vélo at www.durham.gov.uk/cycling

Bank holiday events 3 Contact us: NEWS You can get lots of information, and apply online for council services via Royal www.durham.gov.uk seal of

Save time approval do it online Report Apply Book Pay Comment for two

ReporIf yout Aneedpply to Book phone Pa us,y callComment of the Customer Services county’s 03000 26 0000 schools 8.30am-5pm (Monday-Thursday) Garden Waste Missed Bin Generic Bin Street Litter Two County Durham schools which benefitted from recent investment in 8.30am-4.30pm (Friday) their buildings welcomed HRH The Duke of Gloucester this spring. Out of hours emergency service

available.Fly Tipping Pest Control Recycle Concessionary Travel His Royal Highness met pupils, staff The Duke of Gloucester toured the new and members of the community at facilities, including The Heart Space - If you have a specific query, use Sedgefield Community College and an open plan learning zone - where oneWaste Permi tof ourCouncil dedicated Tax Large Wa stnumbers:e Registrars School. he observed students at work, while Streetscene, Highways and taking in a display of pupils’ fine art, Sedgefield Community College Street Lighting Enquiries photography and fashion work. Sandbags / Flood Planning School Admission Graffiti replaced its main building in January Later in the day, His Royal Highness 03000 26 1000 2011 with a £17.1million development, travelled to Wolsingham School, where Includes rubbish and recycling, street providing space for 750 students, lighting faults, potholes, commercial £6.5million has recently been invested Street Lighting Road Problems Dog Fouling Gritting and in September last year, opened waste, neighbourhood wardens, stray in the construction of new school dogs, abandoned vehicles, pest control, a £1.8million annexe, completing the facilities and the redevelopment of street cleaning, litter and dog fouling, new facilities. the original, historic school building. grafSalt Binsfiti, fly-tippBlue Badgesing, fly-posting,ASB parks,Calendar­ open spaces and cemeteries maintenance.

Benefit Enquiries Follow Our Lead campaign

03000S ave26 time 2000 do it online New enforcement powers for dog control will come During 2015/2016 Report Apply Book Pay Comment into force from 1 June. The new powers - which aim we received Council Tax Enquiries to encourage responsible dog ownership; reduce the

number of strays; create safe and welcoming play areas 1,778 calls about stray dogs 03000 26 4000 and reduce dog fouling - received huge public support Social Care Direct/Children’s in our recent consultation. First Contact Service From June it will be a fineable offence to allow a dog We picked up to stray, fail to put a dog on a lead when asked to by an 1,173 stray dogs 03000 26 79 79 authorised officer or allow dogs into fenced off play areas. Families Information Service The existing offence of allowing a dog to foul and 03000 26 99 95 not picking it up will continue. Find out more about the new powers and health check events organised by Dogs Trust at @DurhamCouncil www.durham.gov.uk/dogcontrol

/durhamcouncil

linkedin.com/company/ From briskly FOR 10 MINUTES durham-county-council COUNTS AS exercise /DurhamCouncil Search Active 10 to download the app today.

Download the FREE /durham_county_council ACTIVE 10 app 4 News Killhope - a hidden gem! One of our most popular attractions has been named a “hidden gem” by Visit England’s Visitor Attraction Quality Campaign invites visitors Scheme, signified by the Quality Rose Marque. The Hidden Gem is awarded to attractions across the UK which offer to step back in time innovative, interesting or unique tourist experiences. A new national marketing campaign aims to draw This is the third award that Killhope has received recently, even more visitors to the county by inviting them alongside the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and to ‘step back in time’ and experience Durham’s the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Heritage Award. fascinating heritage through award-winning Why not visit Killhope and find out for yourself what a attractions, enthralling exhibitions and exciting ‘hidden treasure’ it really is? www.killhope.org.uk events. Beamish Museum, Durham Cathedral and Durham University are joining with Visit County Durham to Durham Cathedral is crowned deliver the new heritage campaign. To find out Heritage Site of the Year! more, visit www.thisisdurham.com/heritage Durham Cathedral has been crowned BBC Countryfile Magazine’s Heritage Site of the Year 2017 following a Durham Food public vote which saw a ‘landslide’ of votes cast for the and Drink Guide magnificent structure. The 2017 edition of the The Cathedral welcomes over 750,000 visitors each year, and Durham Food and Drink Guide, was the most visited free attraction in the North East in 2016. produced by Visit County To find out more about what’s on offer at Durham Cathedral, Durham, is now available. visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk The guide, which is available at hundreds of outlets, provides a sample of the delicious food Download the Baby Buddy app and drink on offer across the Baby Buddy is the multi-award winning free app for county. Download a copy from parents and parents-to-be which guides you through www.thisisdurham.com/publications pregnancy, birth and beyond. Guided Walks There is daily Make the most of the summer personalised by joining one of our walks. information, Discover history, wildlife and you can even your creative side - watch over there’s a wide range of walks of 250 videos all lengths and difficulties for and much you and your family. Copies of more! the guide are available from Wharton and Hardwick Parks and a range of other council venues. Download it for FREE today from… Or download a copy from www.durham.gov.uk/countryside

News 5 Looking to volunteer?

If you’re thinking about doing something different this summer, why not volunteer? Volunteers (L-R) Ella Lee - young person’s gymnastics volunteer, Helen Winterbone - Festival Maker, Dorothy Cornish - Friends National Volunteers’ Week of Wharton Park volunteer and Wilf Proctor takes place from Thursday 1 to - local history volunteer. Wednesday 7 June and is a great chance to find out about the many opportunities for you to get involved.

Volunteers make a huge difference in County Durham and many events and activities wouldn’t be able to go ahead without the generous people who give their time. It’s also a great way to meet new people, gain new skills Volunteering with us and have fun! We have a number of volunteering opportunities So if you’re crazy about compost, passionate about parks that you can sign up to: or fanatical about festivals why not find the perfect opportunity for you? Events, culture and sport Would you love to get backstage at a big event or to inspire people to get fit? Volunteer to become Volunteer C V a Festival Maker, help to run a community gym or as a Walk4Life or Bike4Life leader. Name: Dorothy Cornish Libraries, archaeology and local history Could you make history as a volunteer? Enhancing Volunteer CV: Friends of our Historic Environment Record, working on the Durham at War project or helping teach digital skills Wharton Park. in libraries are just some of the projects you could get on board with. Why I volunteered: Following my retirement, I had more time to spare and wanted to offer Your local environment If you’re green fingered or hate litter, dig in and help my skills, energy and enthusiasm to benefit our environment. Our Big Spring Clean litter picks, the community in some way. schemes to tackle dog fouling and County Durham in Bloom are only a few of the campaigns you can What I got out of volunteering: It’s a lovely support. feeling knowing that you are making a Family support difference and to feel appreciated for your Make a difference to the lives of families in input. County Durham by volunteering. From driving to befriending and supporting local charities, there are a variety of ways to get involved.

Volunteer and make a difference today! www.durham.gov.uk/volunteering

6 Volunteering RETURNS TO DURHAM 16 - 19 NOVEMBER 2017 Be a part of the UK’s largest outdoor light festival, volunteer as a Festival Maker.

Festival Makers at Lumiere 2015. Produced by Artichoke. Photo by Matthew Andrews. Volunteer C V Name: Could you help light up Lumiere 2017? Helen Winterbone The countdown is on as Lumiere returns to Durham this November for the fifth time, and you could be part of it. As we get ready to host the UK’s Volunteer CV: Lumiere, largest outdoor light festival, we’re working with festival producers Cancer Research - Race Artichoke to recruit volunteer Festival Makers to help make Durham shine. for Life, Kynren and more. Who are we looking for? We want to hear from you if: Why I volunteer: I started volunteering

to get out and about and fill in my time • you’re over 18, have a friendly personality and a passion for the festival • you can be available for at least two shifts during Lumiere - Thursday 16 following redundancy. I also wanted to to Sunday 19 November. give something back to the community. We’re looking for people with different skills and life experiences - this could be your first time volunteering or you could be a seasoned pro! Best part of volunteering at Lumiere:

It’s great being part of something big What will you be doing?

and local to the area. The atmosphere To make sure the festival runs smoothly you could be: is amazing and it really gives you a feel • welcoming visitors, helping them find their way around and providing good factor. advice on how to get the best Lumiere experience • telling people about the artworks • helping to run the Festival Visitor Hub • helping production staff when needed - plus much more!

Watch a video about being a Festival Maker What’s in it for you? at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn We couldn’t do it without our volunteers but what do you get out of it? Celebration Event • be part of something huge - over 200,000 people visited Lumiere in 2015 • go behind the scenes - learn first-hand how a major arts event is run Wednesday 14 June • add to your CV - build on your skills and experience and even enrol on to Beamish Museum our accredited course. Volunteers across the county will have their hard work and Find out more... achievements recognised this June www.durham.gov.uk/festivalmaker at the County Durham Volunteering celebration event 2017. Find out more at www.durhamcommunityaction.org.uk

Volunteering 7 Making a difference to young lives

Across the county we strive to make a difference to the Make lives of children and young ordinary moments people, helping them to extraordinary develop and achieve their aspirations and to maximise Watch a video at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn their potential. From care Niki Watkis has been a foster carer Support and financial settings to excellent for six years, she said: “Fostering assistance becomes a career that you never want education and the We offer a full package of support, to leave because nothing else gives training and financial assistance to opportunity to flourish in you the same type of feelings and all of our foster carers. Our therapeutic the same love and warmth that their hobbies, we pride service, known as the Full Circle fostering does.” ourselves on our initiative is praised as one of the best commitment to creating in the industry. Most people become “ As a foster carer you’re foster carers because they want to a county that’s altogether actually doing a job that make a difference to the lives of better for children and makes a real difference children and young people and the young people. difference they make is amazing. to someone as a person. We would urge anyone who feels like ” they could open their home and their Across the county, hundreds of heart to a child to get in touch with children ranging from babies to Fostering us and learn more about how teenagers need foster care rewarding foster caring can be. It’s Foster Care Fortnight from placements. These range from Monday 8 to Sunday 21 May, one-night emergency placements For more details about becoming during which we highlight the to placements for many years; a foster carer please visit fantastic work done by our foster we will help you look at what type www.durham.gov.uk/fostering carers across the county. of fostering will suit you best. or call 03000 269 400.

Arts opportunities for young people Children and young people Earlier this year, Durham County next year alongside the return of the are offered excellent Music Service launched Durham Sage Spectacular, during which the Vocal Festival, where young singers county’s ensembles and groups of music and performance from the county performed in all abilities come together for a opportunities in and out Durham Cathedral alongside the celebration of music. National Youth Choir of Great of school. Those keen to tread the boards are Britain. This festival will be repeated also afforded excellent training at Gala Theatre Stage School, pictured left, which puts on regular performances and already has a list of West-End performers among its alumni. The Music Service works with schools to identify youngsters to take part and you can find out more about the Stage School at www.galadurham.co.uk/gtss

8 Children and young people Fancy a career in social work? As part of our drive to make sure children, young people and families receive the highest quality services, we are recruiting more social workers to our team.

Our social workers receive some of the best Cockfield Community Primary and training possible, through our unique Social Nursery School who were in the top two per cent in the country for maths. Work Academy - the only programme of its kind in the North East.

Educational excellence Our most recent recruits have just started the For the first time in our history our early years children are Academy’s six week nurturing programme, which is followed by one-to-one and group reaching a good level of development, which places them support during a social worker’s first year. in line with the national average for children of this age. We offer competitive salaries, manageable Our primary schools are exceeding the national averages workloads and access to regular training for educational standards and attainment meaning standards with the opportunity to develop your career in Durham have never been as high. whether you want to enhance your skills in practice, or move into a management post. Several schools have received letters of praise from the Minister for Education for their excellence in Laura, one of our social work team managers, said: “I have worked for children’s services specific subject areas, with some coming in the top for 12 years, I have been supported fully with two per cent and five per cent across the country. my career development from young person’s advisor to team manager. Durham County And these high standards continue into higher education, where Council is an excellent employer who is two of the county’s schools have been judged by Ofsted as committed to and invests in its employees.” ‘Outstanding’ in every area, including leadership and results. We also particularly need experienced social and Sedgefield Community College work practitioners and managers to join our were both highly praised by inspectors and saw their Ofsted forward thinking and ambitious service. rankings improve from ‘Good’ on the previous inspection to For more information please visit ‘Outstanding’ at this most recent visit. www.durham.gov.uk/socialwork

More students to hear about Dying to be Cool campaign Educational assemblies on the dangers of jumping into cold water are returning this summer. Over 6,500 pupils will hear safety messages from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service and Fiona Gosling (pictured), whose 14-year-old son Cameron, died from cold water shock after jumping into the in summer 2015. Find out more about the dangers at www.durham.gov.uk/dyingtobecool Watch a video at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

Children and young people 9 Green living Open for entries 5 June - 28 July

Have you made a difference to your local Fly-tipping: help stop it! environment this year? The County Durham It’s a crime not to care where your waste item ends up. Environment Partnership would like to hear from If your item ends up fly-tipped, we could trace it back to you! The awards celebrate projects that improve you. We can issue a for and enhance the environment through great Fixed Penalty Notice of £400 fly-tipping and we regularly prosecute fly-tippers and design, environmental guardianship and unlicensed waste carriers through the magistrates courts. community spirit. There are 12 categories which recognise work Top tips to get rid of furniture and white goods legally carried out by individuals, community groups, • Ask to see a Waste Carrier Licence when using a schools and organisations: ‘man with a van’. This means the person is licensed with Built environment Schools and colleges the Environment Agency to dispose of waste legally. Climate change Volunteer group of • Arrange a council bulky waste collection - book online at Community partnership the year www.durham.gov.uk/bulkywaste or call 03000 261 000. Craftsmanship Volunteer of the year • Take items to a household waste recycling centre. See – under 18 www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc for locations and opening Greener business Volunteer of the year times. If you’re visiting in a van, you’ll need to apply for Natural environment – over 18 a free permit beforehand. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/ Places and spaces Waste management householdpermit or call 03000 261 000. If items are still in good working condition, donate to a All projects or work must have been completed • furniture reuse scheme. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/reuse within County Durham. Winners will be announced for a scheme near you. at an awards ceremony in the autumn. For more information about fly-tipping, visit For more information and to enter, go to www.durham.gov.uk/flytipping or www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk/envawards www.keepbritaintidy.org/crimenottocare or call 03000 265 545. Watch a video about fly-tipping at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

A big thank you to hundreds of spring cleaners The annual LitterFree Durham’s Big Spring Clean, now in its tenth year, encouraged people www.durham.gov.uk/ to organise and take part in litter-picks throughout County Durham and Darlington. bigspringclean This year more than 2,800 bags of rubbish were collected by 2,500 volunteers.

We can help get rid of most common pests for a one-off payment of £40 We treat: 4rats 4mice 4wasps 4flying and crawling insects 4moles 4squirrels.

for households www.durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol Tel: 03000 261 000

10 Green living Communities The results are in: ready to bloom Good to Know Judging has started in the Royal campaign Horticultural Society’s Northumbria We asked you to tell us your in Bloom competition. Durham City, thoughts about recycling in Chester-le-Street and Stanley’s spring the home. The results are in displays have already been judged with summer judging taking place in July. and we want to say a big Results are due to be announced in THANK YOU! September. For more details visit www.durham.gov.uk/inbloom

Watch a video at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

• 43% of you said they are now more aware of what can be included in the kerbside recycling service • 29.2% said they were more aware that plastic containers and bottles Give old clothing a new life can be recycled than before the campaign If you have unwanted clothing or materials, such as curtains and bedding, lying around at home, pass them on and reduce waste, • 70% who had seen the campaign raise funds and help local charities! said it made them want to recycle • Bag 2 School - we’ve teamed up with Bag 2 School to help more schools and community groups recycle unwanted clothes and materials... and get paid for it! To find out more call 01609 780 222 • Overall, respondents reported they or visit www.bag2school.com are recycling more now compared to before the campaign • Donate to a local charity shop - on average each charity shop reuses 40 tonnes of items in a year. For more tips and advice on what • Donate to a clothing bank - County Durham Socialist Clothing can and can’t be recycled visit Bank provides free clothes to people in need. Contact 07707 031 625 www.durham.gov.uk/whatgoeswhere or email [email protected] to donate. • Use door-to-door collections - charities often post bags through your letterbox. Check the bag is from a legitimate charity on the Charity Commission website. May bank • Sell it - sell items in good condition using auction websites or holiday bins through selling pages on social media. Household bins will be emptied as normal during the May bank Have your say on our garden holiday week (29 May). Please place your rubbish, recycling or garden waste waste collection service bins out for collection by 7am on your Complete the survey online at www.durham.gov.uk/consultation usual collection day. To check your or pick up a copy from a customer access point, household waste recycling collection day, use the ‘My Durham’ centre, library or leisure centre. The closing date for responses is 30 June. section of www.durham.gov.uk

Green living 11 Did youknowth about theservicesonhandacrosscounty for anyoneinneedofabreak,findoutmore independent livingeasiertorespiteservices home? Fromspecialequipmenttomake stay safe,wellandindependentinyourown available toensureyouandyourlovedones in yourownhome Helping youtobeindependent with alearningdisabilityormentalhealthcondition. is availableforanyonewithalong-termorshort-termmedicalcondition,thosefeelingvulnerableisolated orthose An alarmsystemcanbeeasilyinstalledtoprovide24hoursupport,365daysayear.Theandmonitoring system if yourfriendorrelativewantstoremainindependentbystayingintheirownhome. close by,itcanbeworrying,butacalltoCareConnectprovidepeaceofmindyouandthem Imagine yourmotherorfatherlivesaloneandhasbecomeforgetfulfrail.Ifyoudon’tlive Care Connect 12 ‘right upy home witurlca24/7s Stay sf Trained locstf Choice fsrv Emergncy spotud New tchnolgy Nevr fawyomlcsupt One ‘prs’ Care onct Adults and health ofthebunrimdasc e andipt f alwysonhd or emailc.nt@duhgv or telphn0326195 w Conect srviplauwb For futheinmagdC our st ere issupportandhelp .durhamgov et’ .uk/careont t vice .uk

Images c Tunstal Healthcare (UK) Ltd. . visit games andtherapiesareavailable. Tofindoutmore tailor ittoindividualneeds andspeciallyadapted Pathways stafftakethetime topersonalisecareand Pathways canhelp. a safeenvironmentcanbe astruggle,whichiswhere socialise, beentertainedandmentallystimulated in easy. Findingasafeplaceforyourlovedoneto Caring forsomeonewithcomplexneedsisnever Getting ontherightpath available. the your needs.Youcanalsomakeanappointmenttovisit or [email protected] The EquipmentAdviceServiceacallon03000265667, which showcasesalloftheequipmentavailable.Give is evenanIndependentLivingHouseinSpennymoor of the car, there are a wide range of aids available. There and outofashowerorbathassistancetoclimb comfortable aspossible.Whetherit’shelpgettingin aids andsupportstomakeindependentlivingas The EquipmentAdviceServiceisonhandtoprovide Equipment tomakelifeeasier Independent LivingHousetotryouttheproducts www.durham.gov.uk andsearchfor Pathways.

Friendship and support lifeline

Stephen was looking for a career change and learned about Shared Lives when he and his partner Richard holidayed with a friend.

After deciding to become Shared Lives providers, they were matched with people looking for a placement and asked to provide an emergency place for David when his elderly parents became unwell. He moved in just days before Christmas.

Stephen and Richard ‘pulled out all the stops’, providing one to one care, support and reassurance to David. They bought him Christmas L-R: Stephen, David and Richard. presents and involved him in their family celebrations.

Making a difference David is still living with Stephen and Richard, as his to someone’s life parents are no longer able to care for him. David still sees his family regularly and is thrilled with his Giving people with a learning disability the chance new home. to live with another person or family on a long-term basis, or just for a few days, can be so important. As well as offering a safe home it can give them independence and help to develop new skills. By becoming a ‘Shared Lives’ provider and offering a home for an adult in need of care and support, you can make a huge difference and be paid for your time and care. If you are looking for a rewarding career and could offer a home to someone, find out more about Shared Lives by calling 03000 265 198 or email [email protected]

Not forgetting our carers! If you care for a relative, friend or neighbour, providing an essential and valued service to them, your health and wellbeing is important too. Free high quality services and support for carers is provided by the following organisations. Get in touch with them to find out more.

18 Plus: Durham County Carers Support 0300 005 1213.

Under 18 Family Action: The Bridge Young Carers Service 0191 383 2520.

Adults and health 13 Durham, a beacon for business

Over the last seven months, we have been working to promote our county to investors and businesses looking to relocate to or expand in the area. Using the new brand, This is Durham, Place of Light, developed by Visit County Durham, we have been highlighting our county’s assets and challenging the misconceptions that still exist about Durham.

A county offering unique business support We have been working with Business Durham, who are responsible for economic development in the county, to provide advice and assistance to businesses working in and looking to relocate here. Following the success of Atom Bank - the UK’s first digital only bank, which chose Durham as its base, we have also assisted customer contact company ResQ with a move to Seaham. ResQ’s CEO Nick Marshall said: “The attitude was ‘What can we do to help you?’ It was so refreshing. Of course, there were A breathtakingly barriers, but there was always a beautiful county will to find ways to overcome them. ” From the dazzling vistas of countryside and coast to the And since their move to the county, The attitude was history and heritage of our ResQ has continued to grow, “ towns and cities, Durham is moving into extra office space this ‘What can we do a stunning county, with much year as they look to create an extra to help you?’ to see and do as part of its 250 jobs on the Seaham site. ” vibrant cultural scene. We’ve also been working with small to medium size enterprises offering advice and support with one such company becoming the first tenant We are proud to host world of our £3.4million office facility and business incubator, Salvus House. class cultural programmes, such as the amazing Kynren - Family-run communications firm Concision chose Salvus House because an epic tale of England in of its space, support network and closeness to the city centre. Bishop Auckland and the UK’s CEO Daniel Roe said the new office space was an important part of his largest outdoor light festival, expansion plans: “Expanding our team is an important part of delivering Lumiere, which returns for its value to our clients. fifth edition in November 2017. We’re glad to be based “...gives us the room at Salvus House. It For more information about we need to continue gives our team more the Place of Light brand, space to collaborate. visit to grow. In addition, we’re www.durham.gov.uk/ ” looking to take on PlaceofLight another member of staff in the summer, and Salvus House gives us Watch a video about Place of Light at the room we need www.durham.gov.uk/ to continue to grow.” dcn

14 Durham, a beacon for business Spreading the message As part of the Place of Light brand the county has been showcased nationally with an event at The House of Commons in London, short films playing at key train stations including Kings Cross and Edinburgh and a number of articles in national newspapers and business publications. Key figures have supported this activity, including former city banker Jonathan Ruffer pictured right, now well known for his transformation of Bishop Auckland. Mr Ruffer says the council’s supportive approach is refreshing to see, at a time when local authorities are not readily able to pour money into regeneration projects based around heritage and culture. He said: “Durham County Council has been an astounding resource. They have been really anxious to help in every way they can, especially An outstanding on infrastructure. We could never think as big as we do without having a council, and Local Enterprise Partnership, that are so decisive, optimistic educational offer and open to the possibilities.” Durham is home to some of the country’s top performing schools. Read more about our schools and how we’re making a difference to “ The people young lives on pages 8 and 9. of Durham have The world-renowned Durham real integrity... University completes the education circle, with a wealth of talented ” graduates. These academics benefit from this top-class education, and have chosen to build their careers in some of the county’s groundbreaking industries and Support has also come from Lord Barnard, another former London executive successful businesses. and now titleholder of Teesdale’s Raby Castle and the surrounding estate. He said: “There is a sense of space in Durham and a feeling of freedom here and yet you are within easy reach of London and Edinburgh by rail. I am only 20 minutes from the East Coast Main Line in one direction and in the same 20 minutes I can be walking in the Durham Dales with its unique mix of botany and wildlife. “For many small and medium sized businesses quality of life for employees is really important. You can operate anywhere today with huge leaps forward in connectivity and transport links, but it is the people that make a place as much as the history and landscapes. The people of Durham have real integrity and reputation is crucial. Trust remains an essential part of doing business here.”

Durham, a beacon for business 15 NORTH Durham Grassroots football nets Sprucing up South Moor major investment A programme which aims to keep County Durham communities clean and tidy has recently visited South Moor. Grassroots football in Durham is set to benefit from a £630,000 Stanley Area Action Partnership supported Operation Spruce Up which investment at the former cleaned up and greened up Park Road, South Moor Road and the Roseberry College site in surrounding areas. Newfield, Chester-le-Street. Find out more about Operation Spruce Up and where it’s visiting now at: www.durham.gov.uk/spruceup The Premier League and the FA Facilities Fund, delivered by the Football Foundation, has awarded £293,000 for a new football community hub. Further funds have been provided via capital receipts from nearby housing developments, match funding from the council and contributions from Neighbourhood Budgets. Work has now started on the construction of a four team changing facility, refurbishment Dementia friendly swimming of the artificial grass pitch and replacement of security fencing It’s dementia awareness week in May so why to protect the existing grass don’t you join us at Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre for a dementia friendly swimming session? pitches on-site. Sessions take place every Wednesday from 11am to 12noon and are open to people living with dementia and their carers. Free refreshments are available after each session.

Arson-hit play area officially opens after refurbishment A play area which was hit by arson has been officially reopened by schoolchildren. We carried out a major refurbishment and extension of the facility at Catchgate, as part of a £1.75million investment in play areas across the county. However, not long after the work was completed last year, some of the new equipment was damaged by arson. The damaged equipment has now been replaced and the site has been officially re-opened by pupils from Catchgate Primary School. The refurbished play area boasts a ground flush roundabout, which can be used by all children including those in wheelchairs or pushchairs. It also features new swings and climbing units suitable for children up to the age of 12.

16 North Durham news Tea and friendship CENTRAL for the over 55s and EAST Tea parties for the over 55s are helping to combat loneliness. Durham Organised by Durham University Student Community Action, the free get-togethers provide tea and cake with entertainment from the students. The next one takes place on Wednesday 21 June at St Oswald’s Church Institute on Church Street in Durham City between 2pm and 4pm. Find out more 0191 334 1797, or email [email protected]

Moor, Brandon and Langley Moor. Joining forces Village Plans are a with partner agencies, issues such as dog fouling, tremendous success access to community buildings and pot holes were tackled with 75 per cent of all problems raised A three year plan to tackle being dealt with. issues highlighted by residents More than 1,300 residents gave their input, bringing living in Mid Durham villages has seen forward a total of 469 issues. £2.6million investment into the area. The partnership is planning to start the project again Following consultation with local residents, the Mid with drop-in sessions taking place in June and July. Durham Area Action Partnership devised Village Action Find out more 07818 510 370, Plans for Lanchester, Castleside, Esh Winning, Ushaw or email [email protected]

Durham City Celebrating a true County paving works Durham hero

Improvements to For four days and three nights the Now, 100 years paving in the city’s soldier lay badly wounded, trapped in since his act of ‘no man’s land’ as the Battle of Arras gallantry, the conservation areas raged around him. Sixty yards away, his son of a colliery are continuing. comrades dare not raise their heads inspector has above the parapet - a hail of German become the Work has recently bullets awaiting any who left their latest County trench. Yet one man - 15 DLI’s Private Durham hero

photo: Durham County Record Office been completed Michael Heaviside, a County Durham to see a commemorative in the North Road miner - would not leave his fellow stone unveiled in his honour. area and is soldier to suffer. A service took place at St Giles’ Church scheduled to take The 37-year-old’s Victoria Cross citation in Gilesgate - the parish in which he reads. “It was impossible, during daylight, was born - on Saturday 6 May. place in the summer to send out a stretcher party, but Private at Old Elvet Bridge Heaviside at once volunteered to carry More commemorations are set to take and Owengate. water and food to the wounded man, place in Craghead on Wednesday despite the enemy fire, ... The arrival of 12 July, to celebrate the anniversary of the water undoubtedly saved his life.” his return from the war.

Central and East Durham news 17 SOUTH and WEST Durham

Boost for life saving equipment

Newton Aycliffe and the surrounding communities are set to benefit from potentially lifesaving defibrillators thanks to a new project supported by the Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership. Working in partnership with Woodham Village Community Association the project will see the purchase of six defibrillator units at Woodham Community Centre, Pioneering Care Centre, Greenfield Community College and The Bay Horse in Middridge Village. A fifth portable unit will be located at Greenfield Convenience Store and a sixth unit will be held at Woodham Community Centre to be Funding is music to used as a back-up. A training and awareness programme will also be delivered as part of the project. the ears An aspiring community brass band is flourishing thanks to funding to buy more instruments, encouraging more New centre people to learn to play. to support Fishburn Academy Band was formed in 2014 to give budding musicians living addiction in the area the chance to learn a brass recovery instrument. Now the band is ready to welcome more players than ever thanks A new centre to more than £7,000 funding from for people seeking The East Durham Rural Corridor Area help for drug and Action Partnerships. alcohol addiction has officially opened Join them for rehearsals on Monday in Bishop Auckland. evenings in term time, between 7pm Saddler House Recovery Centre has been funded by the council and and 8.30pm at the Fishburn Band Room. Public Health England. It provides a new base for County Durham www.fishburnacademyband.org Drug and Alcohol Service managed by Lifeline Project, a national charity specialising in substance misuse services. The centre, situated near the bus station, will provide immediate support for those suffering with drug and alcohol problems and their families. Bishop Auckland improvements

Major supermarket boost for The final phase of road and Spennymoor footpath improvements to Bishop Auckland Market Supermarket Aldi has confirmed an interest in the redevelopment Place is nearing completion. proposals for Festival Walk in the town. Proposals for the scheme, being brought forward by Hellens Group, For the latest information will see a large part of the existing shopping centre demolished to make go to way for one large retail unit. Remaining shops will be modernised with www.durham.gov.uk/ £600,000 council funding to demolish a section of the site to make way bishopworks for the creation of a new town centre car park. Local road junctions will also be improved to allow for better access.

18 South and West Durham news No change to services during Shildon to host Health Express hub works Our library and customer access An innovative new approach to community health and wellbeing point in Crook will remain open is being launched in Shildon. The Health Express hub is being developed as normal while work takes in Rest House, Hackworth Park and aims to help residents to live longer, place at the Civic Centre. be healthier and lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Crook will be the first of four of An extensive renovation of the Rest House building will take place to our main sites to have its facilities provide Health Express with a base in the town. The building will serve updated under our Inspire as a community hub, not only for the residents of Shildon, but also for Programme, which aims to neighbouring towns. A minibus will help with transport. ensure we’re making the most Rest House will be the efficient use of our buildings. main hub for activities The work will take place between including college in the September and November and community sessions and the majority of our staff will need health clinics. to move out of the building while this takes place. It is anticipated that about 300 employees will eventually be Carry on at your convenience based at the site once the works in Bishop Auckland are complete.

Residents and visitors to Bishop Auckland will find it more convenient to use facilities in the town in future with the roll out of the Bishop Auckland Community Toilet Scheme. Several local businesses have initially signed up to the partnership to increase the availability of clean, safe, free and accessible facilities for use during normal opening hours without the need to make a purchase. Several of the participating premises also offer wheelchair access and baby changing facilities. The businesses already signed up are: Gardens open • Asda • Newgate Shopping Centre • No.42 • Sam Zair’s Café to raise funds • Time For You Tea Room, • Fifteas Tea Room Residents in Staindrop are Four Clocks Centre opening up their gardens to raise funds for a local church. Homes clustered around the village Know what you’re drinking green include a former mill and manor house and will welcome Highlighting the effects of energy drinks is the aim of a new project members of the public on Sunday set up by the Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership. 25 June between 2pm and 5pm. The HYPER project will educate families via Refreshments will be available schools, doctors surgeries and other community in nearby Scarth Hall. groups about the effects of energy drinks, caffeine overdose and type two diabetes being £5 for adults and free for two of the more serious side effects. It’s being run accompanied children with all funds in partnership with Durham Drug and Alcohol going to St Mary’s Parish Church. Service, Lifeline Project, Public Health and 01833 660 203, Durham University. or email [email protected]

South and West Durham news 19 NEWS Free childcare for working parents

From September 2017, the Government will offer

parents of three and four-year-olds an extra 15 hours of free childcare per week to help them to continue working, or to take up employment. This can either be taken as 30 hours over 38 weeks of the year (school Find support for a child term-time) or spread across the full year. with Special Educational Needs or DCN - DKO advert 24/04/2017 12:53 To Page be 1 eligible parents must earn, or expect to earn, Disabilities, all in one place the equivalent to 16 hours at National Minimum or Living Wage (as a minimum) for the first three months www.countydurhamfamilies.info following application, and less than £100,000 per year. Childcare will be available in schools, nurseries, childminders or through a combination of these. Find out more and register your interest at www.durham.gov.uk/earlyyears Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

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20 News Top picks for summer 2017 ning across appe Y s h s su our ent thi mm guid ev Cou am e e to the major nty Durh r.

Rod Stewart Friday 9 June Emirates Riverside in Chester-le-Street. Mega star Rod brings his Hits Tour to the region. www.durhamccc.co.uk

Kynren - an epic tale of England Saturday 1 July to Durham City Run Saturday 16 September Wednesday 19 July Eleven Arches’ Kynren - an epic Thousands of runners are tale of England returns to Bishop expected to turn out for the Auckland and the night-time Durham Regatta second annual Prince Bishops spectacular is set to be bigger, Durham City Run this summer Saturday 10 and better and brighter than ever. featuring 5K and 10K races. www.elevenarches.org Sunday 11 June www.durhamcityrun.com Crews from around the world will be competing on the picturesque River Wear. Entertainment from bands and performers, along with a great selection of stalls to browse and local foods, make it a brilliant family event. www.durham-regatta.org.uk

Hardwick Live Marras Festival Friday 18 and Friday 7 and Saturday 8 July Saturday 19 August Join The Lightning Seeds and The Lake Returning this summer, with a Poets for Durham’s inaugural two day huge line-up of high profile acts. music event The Marras Festival. www.hardwicklive.co.uk www.marrasfestival.co.uk

Durham a pair of tickets for Hardwick Live To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets for this year’s Hardwick Miners’ Gala Live tell us: Which area of the country do the Hotpots take their name from? Saturday 8 July Remember the ...... Address ...... county’s mining Name ...... heritage and ...... see some Tel ...... Postcode ...... spectacular See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form Email ...... marching bands or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn and banners in Durham City. www.durhamminers.org Turn over for more great events and things to do

Top picks for summer 21 The Bowes Museum celebrates 125 years

2017 is an exciting year for The Bowes Museum. Named after its founders John and Joséphine Bowes, the beautiful French style château opened to the public in June 1892 and will salute its birthday with a day of celebrations.

Join in on Saturday 10 June to mark the anniversary with a day of festivities for all the family in the museum and grounds, commemorating this milestone in history. Entertainment will include an anniversary picnic, live music, activities for children, and curators will give talks on their favourite items from the collections. Combined admission to museum and grounds will be £2.50 per adult with children free.

Summer The Clockwork Garden - the 125th anniversary exhibitions offers an ideal opportunity to look to the future with at the this bewitching show, which promises a magical museum experience for the young and young at heart. Flying in from

Throughout the Tulip ‘Helen Josephine’ (rose breeder) 1975, by Rory McEwan, watercolour on vellum somewhere far out in space, a summer House strange mechanical seed has landed in our temporary of Fairy Tales, exhibition gallery to fill it with this the national beautiful, interactive exhibition. children’s It needs to learn the secrets that arts charity, make our earthly gardens so full presents two of life, joy and beauty, to take back to its own planet. But will exhibitions at the ominous Orange Moon and its shadowy Mechanised the museum: Grizzlies find the seed before it’s ready to return?

Tiptoe Through the [Turkish] Tulips is an Both exhibitions open on 29 July, while on 30 and 31 July exquisite and engaging trail, linked to items from House of Fairy Tales will be visiting the museum for an the museum collection, viewed through the eyes opening event engaging families with enticing tasks and of contemporary artist Gavin Turk in collaboration games relating to the exhibitions. Tickets for these events with other renowned British artists including will be available online nearer the date. Damien Hirst. In an interactive experience which challenges visitors to see things in new ways, the Find out more about familiar becomes the unfamiliar as the tulip’s role all celebratory events in history is played out in a tale of romance, www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk beauty, obsession, inequality, and extravagance. 01833 690 606

22 Top picks for summer BRASS is back! Durham’s popular BRASS Festival returns across County Durham for its 11th year celebrating the best of brass from soul to jazz to traditional and classical. Our week-long festival showcases the broadest possible range of brass music, from Broadway to 17th Century Venice. West End stars Matt Corner (Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys) and Kate Graham (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Billy Elliot) who hail from the North East, perform BRASS on Broadway with the Scottish Swing Orchestra and the BRASS Broadway Chorus on Sunday 9 July (Gala Theatre) with swing versions of classic Broadway songs from Anything Goes, Hairspray, Chicago, West Side Story and many more. BRASS celebrates the 100th anniversary of one of the greatest jazz trumpeters of all time, Dizzy Gillespie on Thursday 13 July (Gala Theatre) as the legendary BBC Big Band pays homage to his contribution to jazz, alongside that of other great brass players and band leaders from Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey to Maynard Fergusson and Quincy Jones. Venetian Surround Sound brings together Durham Cathedral Choir with early music virtuosos His Majesty’s Sagbutts & Cornetts to perform a tailor made concert programme designed to the acoustics and layout of Durham Cathedral on Friday 14 July. In a unique celebration of brass and voice, a spectacular new version of William Walton’s thrilling Belshazzar’s Feast will be performed by brass bands and choral societies on Saturday 15 July (Durham Cathedral). The concert will feature the Reg Vardy Band and a special Festival Chorus. And this year Durham BRASS Festival presents the world’s best brass band: The Cory Band on Sunday 16 July, (Gala Theatre) presenting the best traditional brass band music that took them to the ‘Grand Slam’ of contest titles. BRASS 2017 will also bring you the fantastic Big BRASS Bus tour which goes on the road around the North East in July. A perennial favourite, with international Book online at www.brassfestival.co.uk street bands transforming Durham’s World Heritage centre into the ‘Home Watch highlights of last year’s events at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn of Street BRASS’ for two days of fun, frolics and musical madness including Oompah Brass, Mr Wilson’s Second Liners and newcomers Backchat Brass.

Top picks for summer 23 Out and about on a budget

Have you ever truly explored what is on your doorstep? Why not grab a packed lunch, embrace the summer sunshine and check out our county’s stunning landscape and captivating art? Most things are free or cost very little for a great day out!

Nestled in the rolling Weardale hills sits If you were lucky enough the miniature picture postcard village to catch Teesdale’s of Ireshopeburn. Eye-sup-burn, as it’s magnificent light pronounced locally, is home to High projection, Waterfall, House Chapel, the world’s oldest last year then be sure to purpose built Methodist chapel to look out for Louise Plant’s have continuous weekly services. Ps in a Pod, The Same and Different from Saturday 27 May. The sculptures are hot on the heels of Steve Messam’s Rat, Badger, Mole and of course not headline grabbing outdoor art which transformed three forgetting Toad of Toad Hall would feel at whitewashed barns into the flowing waters of High and home huddled at the side of one of Low Barnes Low Force waterfalls. Nature Reserve’s three lakes at Witton-le-Wear. A designated site of special scientific interest, more patient visitors may be rewarded with an otter, fox or stoat sighting.

Once upon a time there were thousands of coke ovens in County Durham, an important part of the area’s industrial heritage. Inkerman Beehive Coke Ovens lie at Tow Law. Check them out and visit the town which inspired Mark Knopfler to write Hill Farmer’s Blues.

The Ps in a Pod will feature numerous Norman Cornish standalone cast iron is one of the most sculptures which are celebrated arranged differently mining artists. depending on their His appeal comes surroundings. from his keen Over the next year the Ps will be available to view in four eye for the locations around the county starting at Nose’s Point, Seaham everyday before moving to Wharton Park in Durham, Bishop Auckland activities of the and Hamsterley Forest. Durham mining communities. We’ll be working with schools in each of the areas to deliver drama and dance workshops linked with the project. New to Spennymoor Town Hall, his home town, In Seaham the sculptures will sit at the far end of is the Norman Cornish Nose’s Point Car Park on the Headland. Studio. A wonderful Please note: For more information check out opportunity to There may be a small charge for some www.durham.gov.uk/psinapod see his working area. attractions and some will charge for parking. The majority of sites are accessible.

24 Out and about 47km of cycle route has From Saturday 27 May until Sunday 4 June, events been installed as part of the will be taking place along our beautiful coastline National Cycle Network as part of our 2017 Heritage Coast Festival. for the

Outdoor festival 2017

14 organisations came together Coastal Footpath Walk between 1997 and 2002 to form Ever fancied walking the coastline? Well you can by joining us for a nine mile the Turning The Tide Partnership walk from Dawdon to Crimdon on Sunday 28 May. Learn about the coast to regenerate Durham’s coast and how it has emerged from its industrial past to the coast we see today. Bring sturdy footwear and a packed lunch. Book your place or get more information by calling: 03000 268 131 Nose’s Point is situated just south of Seaham and was once the location of Dawdon Colliery – the mainstay of Drawing on the beach On Saturday 27 May join artist Sophy Dawdon’s economy Nixon for an art walk along the beautiful Seaham beach coastline. Don’t forget your sketchpad, pencils and colours. Meet at Seaham Hall beach car park. 10am to 12noon.

Toddle around the Dene Rock pool rummage Thursday 1 June is International Children’s Day so why not join us Join us for a rummage around with your little ones for a toddle Seaham’s rock pools as the tide around Castle Eden Dene? Older goes out and see what lies around siblings are welcome. Meet at the shoreline. Bring a bucket, net

Oakerside Dene Lodge in Peterlee and wellies. Meet at Red Acre at 11am. Beach steps on North Terrace at 11am on Sunday 28 May.

Bringing the beach to you Beach themed games, crafts, boats and Sea glass safari shell art will keep little ones entertained Join sea glass artist Stuart Langley on Tuesday 30 May. The fun takes place down on the beach collecting sea between 1pm and 3pm at Cotsford Park glass on Monday 29 May. Make a in Horden. keepsake to take home with you.

Meet at Easington Colliery Band Room. A full listing of events is Book your place or get more available by visiting: information by calling: 03000 268 131 www.durhamheritagecoast.org

Out and about 25 May to July May to July WHAT’S ON Until Saturday 3 June Saturday 27 May, 11am to 3pm 10am to 6pm Exhibition of artwork: Mini Golf Course ‘Seaside’ ‘A Journey Through Teesdale’ Art Block, 74 Church Street, Seaham Barnard Castle, Scar Top Saturday 27 May, 8pm By children from Acre Rigg Infants Open, weather permitting, weekends, Meet Weekend Comedy Gala School working with East Durham bank holidays and school holidays. The Witham, Barnard Castle Artists Network. Free. 0191 649 9431 £3. 01833 690 970 Host Patrick Monahan with Carl (Art Block opening times only). www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk Hutchinson, Fin Taylor and George Rigden. £10-£12. 01833 650 930 Saturday 27 May, 2.30pm to 3.30pm www.funnywaytobe.com World War I Lecture Series: Home Comforts: The Role of the Saturday 27 May, 11am Red Cross Auxiliary Hospitals Mighty Wurlitzer Annual Fete The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear Booking required. £3. 01833 690 606 Music of the Mighty Wurlitzer and www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk guest Stuart Wright’s continental street organ. Free. 01388 762 467 Saturday 27 May, 5am www.netoa.org.uk Durham Cathedral Photography Morning Saturday 27 May and Saturday 24 June, 10am Until Saturday 10 June, Durham Cathedral 10am Monday to Saturday and Spend a morning with your camera Wood Club 12.30pm Sunday inside Durham Cathedral. (No flash Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Open Treasure - Beasts! permitted). £10 per camera. Join our forest school practitioner to www.durhamcathedral.co.uk spend some quality family time in the The Collections Gallery, Durham woods. Booking required. Cathedral Saturday 27 May, 10.30am £10 per family. 03000 262 845 An exhibition of weird and wonderful www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark beasts. £2.50-£7.50. Sheep Shearing Hall Hill Farm www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/ Sunday 28 May to Monday 29 May whatson/beasts Sheep shearer demonstrations throughout the day. £7.50-£7.95. Durham Pride 01388 731 333 www.hallhillfarm.co.uk Durham City, see page 3 REGULAR Free event. www.durhamprideuk.org a family membership Sunday 28 May, 9am Every first Saturday of for up to 6 people to the month, 10am to 12noon Hall Hill Farm Durham Rambling Club Wildlife Watch Haltwhistle Question: How many hectares of land Three hikes in the Haltwhistle area, 12, Low Barnes, Nature Reserve, does Hall Hill Farm cover? Witton-le-Wear, 9 and 6 mile walks. Booking required. Bishop Auckland £10 per person coach fare. Coach picks ...... up at various locations in and around Learn about all things wild Durham City. 07706 871 812 with a different theme each Name ...... www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk month. £1. Booking required. Events 0191 584 3112 Tel ...... www.durhamwt.com Sunday 28 May, 11am to 4pm Flower Power Fair Email ...... Tuesdays, 7.15pm Raby Castle Coach Yard Peterlee Chess Club Northern plant growers and nurseries Address ...... Peterlee Labour Club, offer a wide choice of plants.£5. 01833 660 202 www.rabycastle.com Manor Way ...... Every Tuesday throughout From Sunday 28 May, 10am to 5pm the year, everyone ...... welcome from beginners Fairly Tale Week Crook Hall and Gardens to masters. Postcode ...... www.peterlee Meet fairy tale characters brought to life. chessclub.co.uk See page 2 for entry details. Adults £7.50, children £5. 0191 384 8028 Fill in the form or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn www.crookhallgardens.co.uk

26 What’s on Wednesday 31 May, Thursday 1 June, 2pm to 3.30pm 10.30am Bounce and soft play Fantastic Founders Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington - John & Joséphine For children up to 5 years, football for Sunday 28 May and Bowes children up to 9 years. £3. Sunday 23 July, The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle 01388 747 000 10.30am Learn about the founders of the www.spectrumleisurecentre.com Blacksmith Workshops museum. Free for children, must be Killhope accompanied by an adult (normal Thursday 1 June, 2pm Learn the skills of a blacksmith and admission applies). 01833 690 606 Durham Flower Club make your own fire poker. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk Sherburn Community Village Hall £50 including lunch. 01388 537 505 Strictly Jeanius demonstration by Jean www.killhope.org.uk Wednesday 31 May, 1.30pm McClure. £5 (annual membership £25). Wilderness Survival Challenge Sunday 28 May Hamsterley Forest Thursday 1 June, 7.30pm Foraging for wild food Booking required. £10 per person. Bolshoi Ballet: Harehope Quarry, Frosterley (Must be 8 years to 16 years old.) With qualified wild food forager, Bruce 01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk A Contemporary Evening Ferguson. Booking required. £15. (recorded performance) (12A) 01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk The Witham, Barnard Castle £8 to £15. 01833 631 107 Tuesday 30 May, 11am to 4pm www.thewitham.org.uk Ready, Steady, Action! Family fun day Thursday 1 June to The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Friday 2 June, 10am and A fun packed day of drop-in activities. 1.30pm Free for children, must be accompanied by an adult (normal admission applies). Fun with 01833 690 606 clay www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk The Bowes Museum, Tuesday 30 May, 11am Barnard Castle Bird-themed open day Make your own clay Wynch Bridge End Cottage creation. Booking required. £4.50 per child (free for accompanying Collect a map from Bowlees Visitor adult). 01833 690 606 Centre and stroll across the River Tees www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk to find us. Free. 01833 622 374 Every Sunday during June, July www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. and August, 1pm blogspot.co.uk Friday 2 June, 2.30pm and 7.30pm Brass Summer Concerts Animaniacs Wednesday 31 May, 11am Outdoor amphitheatre, Gala Theatre, Durham Dragons and Unicorns Wharton Park Music and dance from your favourite Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Free. 03000 266 749 children’s films. £8 to £10. www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk Create a dragon or unicorn to take home in this fun indoor craft activity. £3 per child, adults free. Thursday 1 June to Tuesday 4 June, Friday 2 June, 7pm 03000 262 899 10am to 5pm The Armed Man (chamber version) www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Beamish Georgian Fair by Karl Jenkins; The Coronation Pockerley Waggonway, Anthems by G.F. Handel Wednesday 31 May, 2pm to 3.30pm Beamish Museum Bishop Auckland Town Hall Family Roller Disco All the fun of a traditional fair. £3-£8. Tickets available on the door Spectrum Leisure Centre, Willington Admission included in museum or by calling 01388 834 359 or Suitable for all ages. £3. 01388 747 000 admission charge £11-£19. 01325 360 514. www.spectrumleisurecentre.com 0191 370 4000 www.beamish.org.uk www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk

What’s on 27 May to July WHAT’S ON

Friday 2 June, 10am-11.30am and 1pm-2.30pm Fairy Magic Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Build your own fairy door. Booking required. £6 per child, adults free. 03000 262 899 Monday 5 June to Tuesday 27 June, www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark 10am Stephen Bainbridge Friday 2 June, 7pm Exhibition Saturday 10 June, Gentleman’s dinner Locomotion, The National Railway NT Live: Peter Pan (Encore) (PG) Museum at Shildon Ramside Hall Hotel The Witham, Barnard Castle, 2pm Includes three course dinner and Artist specialising in railway scenes of £12-£14. 01833 631 107 entertainment. £50. 0191 386 1170 ext 5 the steam era and landscapes. Free. www.thewitham.org.uk 01388 777 999 www.stcuthbertshospice.com Gala Theatre, Durham, 2.30pm Friday 2 June, 2.15pm Tuesday 6 June until Saturday 1 July, £13-£15, 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk Gallery Talk 11am to 3pm The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Exhibition: ‘Details’ Saturday 10 June, 7.30pm St Luke Drawing the Virgin and Child Art Block, 74 Church Street, Seaham Gyles Brandreth - Looking for by the workshop of Dieric Bouts. Happiness Included in admission charge to the By East Durham Artists Network The Witham, Barnard Castle museum. 01833 690 606 members, Jean Lowes and Neida www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk £20. 01833 650 930 Pearson. Free. 0191 649 9431 www.funnywaytobe.com Every Saturday and Wednesday Wednesday 7 June, 2pm to 5pm Saturday 10 June from 3 June, 2pm Treasures of Widdybank Fell Survive the Hunger Games Open day at St Mary’s Church, Cow Green Reservoir, Moor House Seaham Harehope Quarry, Frosterley Free. A guided walk along the nature trail at Make a bow and learn to use it, and Widdybank Fell. Easy 3 mile walk. much more... £80 per person (age 12 Saturday 3 June, 7.30pm Bring warm, waterproof clothing. to 16 only). Booking required. No dogs. Donations. 01833 622 374 01388 529 154 www.natureholiday.co.uk Carmen www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. St Brandon’s Church, Brancepeth blogspot.co.uk Sunday 11 June A semi-staged production of Bizet’s Durham Rambling Club popular opera ‘Carmen’ by Teesside’s Wednesday 7 June, 7.15pm Alnmouth Opera Nova. Tickets available in advance Three hikes finishing in Alnmouth, or on the door, £1-£12. 01642 807 033, Royal Opera House Live: The Dream/Symphonic 12 miles, 9 and 6 mile walks. £10 per 07872 339 167 or 07936 080 535 person coach fare. Coach picks up at www.operanova.org.uk Variations/Marguerite and various locations in and around Durham Armand City. 09906 871 812 Saturday 3 June, 3pm to 9am The Witham, Barnard Castle www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk Family Bushcrafts Sleepover £8-£15. 01833 631 107 Hamsterley Forest www.thewitham.org.uk Sunday 11 June at 2.30pm Set up a tarp shelter, light a fire, cook a and Monday 12 June to Saturday 17 meal and sleep out in the wild woods Thursday 8 June, 7pm June, 7.30pm with qualified leader Bruce Ferguson. My Cousin Rachel (play) £15-£60. 01388 529 154 The Mighty Wurlitzer New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear The City Theatre, Fowlers Yard, www.natureholiday.co.uk Durham Friends of NETOA play. £3. Adaptation of Daphne DuMaurier Sunday 4 June, 8.30am until 12.30pm 01388 762 467 www.netoa.org.uk classic. £6.50-£7.50 (Available from Gala Sedgefield Farmers Market box office). Sedgefield Village Green Friday 9 June, 10am to 1pm Quality local produce. Free entry. More Spring Birds Tuesday 13 June, 7.30pm Around Widdybank, Moor House Exhibition on screen: Monday 5 June, 7.30pm Easy to moderate grade with some Michelangelo: Love and Death Bolshoi Ballet: A Hero of our Time stiles. Bring supplies for a rest at The Witham, Barnard Castle (recorded performance) (12A) Widdybank. 01833 622 374 Full and fresh biography of The Witham, Barnard Castle www.moorhouse-upperteesdale. Michelangelo. £12-£14. £8 to £15. 01833 631 107 blogspot.co.uk 01833 631 107 www.thewitham.org.uk www.thewitham.org.uk

28 What’s on Perfect for Father’s Day Sunday 18 June, 10am to 5pm Wednesday 14 and Brass at Beamish Saturday 17 June, 10am and 1pm The Pit Village, Beamish Museum Regional brass band competition. Admission Toddler Tales and Trails - included in museum admission charge, £11 to Postman Bear £19. 0191 370 4000 www.beamish.org.uk Wednesday 14 June, 2pm Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Derwent Valley Flower Family fun sessions for younger Sunday 18 June, 10am Club children (2-5 years). Booking required. 03000 262 899 Father’s Day Big Build Dene Court Communal Room, Bright Woods Forest School, Barnard Castle Hamsterley www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark Design your own woodland home and put your Summer magic flower Thursday 15 June, 7.30pm building skills to the test. £5-£6. demonstration by Val Guest. www.facebook.com/suitcasestudiouk £4. 01207 505 576 Dunelm Flower Club Durham High School for Girls, Sunday 18 June, 12noon to 5pm Wednesday 14 June to South Road Saturday 17 June, 7.15pm Susan Hall from Saltburn Father’s Day ‘Man Tea’ Spamalot demonstrates ‘memories’. Crook Hall and Gardens Park View Theatre, Visitors welcome. £5. Open as normal but if you want to Chester-le-Street treat your father call to book a place Thursday 15 June, 7.30pm 0191 384 8028. £8-£10. Someone Like You - www.crookhallgardens.co.uk/events 0191 388 3362, 07468 607 420 The Adele Songbook www.dryburntheatricalworkshop. Sunday 18 June, ticketsource.co.uk Empire Theatre, Consett Katie Markham recreates the 10.30am to 3pm Wednesday 14, Thursday 15, magic of the record-breaking Father’s Day Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 albums. £20. Hall Hill Farm June, 10am and 1pm Box Office: 01207 218 171 Free entry for dad when www.leisureworks.net Toddler Tales and Trails - accompanied by a paying Aliens Love Underpants child (2-15 years). Friday 16 June £7.50 to £7.95. 01388 731 333 Wharton Park The Rat Pack - with Anita www.hallhillfarm.co.uk Storytelling, crafts and a park trail Harris for 2-5 year olds. £4. Alun Armstrong Theatre - Civic Sunday 18 June, 10am and 1pm 03000 266 749 Hall Stanley www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark Dad’s Den Building Direct from London’s Leicester Hardwick Park, Sedgefield Square Theatre. Music of Sinatra, Build a den and a fire together. Advance booking Martin and Davis. £19-£20. required. £10 per family. 03000 262 845, 01207 299 110 03000 262 899 www.durham.gov.uk/hardwickpark www.civichallstanley.co.uk Sunday 18 June, 10am to 4pm Classic Vehicle Show a pair of tickets to Gyles Brandreth Raby Castle - Looking for Happiness £2.50-£7. 01833 660 202 www.rabycastle.com Question: On which BBC show does Gyles Brandreth appear as a reporter? Sunday 18 June, 1.30pm to 4.30pm Wilderness Survival Skills - Bushcraft ...... Essentials Hamsterley Forest Name ...... Learn the basics for survival in a forest environment with qualified bushcraft teacher, Tel ...... Postcode ...... Bruce Ferguson. £30 per person. Age16+ (Parental consent required for under 18s). Address ...... Email ...... Booking required. 01388 529 154 See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form www.natureholiday.co.uk ...... or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

What’s on 29 May to July WHAT’S ON

Saturday 17 June, 7pm Now That’s What I call the 60s Alun Armstrong Theatre - Civic Hall Stanley Brenda Collins and Lee Brannigan, featuring songs from Cilla Black, Neil Diamond, The Beatles, Petula Clark Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm and Roy Orbison. £18. 01207 299 110 www.civichallstanley.co.uk The Nick Ross Orchestra: Sounds of The Glenn Miller Era Saturday 17 June, 12noon to 7pm Empire Theatre, Consett Brass Band Competition £18.50-£20. Box office: 01207 218 171 www.leisureworks.net Terrace Green, Marina and Church Street, Seaham Saturday 24 June, 12noon to 7pm Free public brass band performances. Armed Forces Day 0191 581 8034 www.seaham.gov.uk Seaham Town Park, Stockton Road, Seaham Saturday 17 June, 11am Wednesday 21 June, 2pm to 4pm Military parade and live music. Free. Colourama Lanchester Flower Club 0191 581 8034 www.seaham.gov.uk St Leonard’s Playing Field, Durham monthly meeting Non-competitive walk or run around Lanchester Community Centre Gala Theatre, Durham a colourful 5k course. £12-£22. Presentation and talk by Carly Jackson 0191 386 1170 ext 5. from Get Ahead Hats. Visitors £4. www.stcuthbertshospice.com 01207 503 667 May Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly Saturday 17 June and Sunday 18 Thursday 22 June, 7pm tribute promises an evening of rock ‘n’ June, 11am to 4.30pm NT Live: Salomé (15) roll greats DCVCS Annual Rally The Witham, Barnard Castle Mainsforth Sports Complex, £12-£14. 01833 631 107 June Ferryhill Station www.thewitham.org.uk The annual Blues Festival presents Vintage exhibits, craft marquee, Gala Theatre, Durham 12 fantastic acts over one day tombola, trade stands, refreshments and licensed bar. £1-£3. 07957 092 453 £13-£15, 03000 266 600 BBC broadcasters Martin Hughes-Games www.galadurham.co.uk and Iolo Williams team up for an informative and amusing wildlife show Sunday 18 June, Thursday 22 June, 6pm 11am to 3pm Bishop Dunn Memorial Lecture: July Wildathon Bearing Scars and Forging Hope: Sir Ranulph Fiennes offers a Rainton Meadows The Church’s Flawed Expertise in Nature Reserve personal journey through his Humanity life, from the early expeditions A day dedicated Ushaw College to his current Global to all things wild. Lecture followed by cheese and wine Reach Challenge £3-£5 please book. reception. Advance booking essential. 0191 584 3112 £2-£12. 0191 334 1656 www.durhamwt.com www.centreforcatholicstudies.co.uk Monday 19 June, 7.15pm Friday 23 June, 10.30am to 11.30am Sedgefield Family History Group Teesdale Aviation Day Service Ceddesfeld Hall, Sedgefield Barnard Castle Memorial Gardens, Talk by Julie Allinson, “Stepping back to Galgate Stockton on Tees.” £2. Free. 01833 690 970 www.clevelandfhs.org.uk www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk Tuesday 20 June, 7.30pm Saturday 24 June and Sunday 25 Ferryhill, Sedgefield and District June, 10.30am to 4pm Flower Club Barnard Castle 1940s Weekend For the full programme or Parish Hall, Sedgefield Barnard Castle to book tickets please visit With Julie Cook ‘Coliding Colours.’ Some ticketed events from £10. www.galadurham.co.uk No charge for members, non-members 01833 690 970 or call the box office on £5. 07533 752 870 www.barnardcastletowncouncil.gov.uk 03000 266 600

30 What’s on Saturday 24 Friday 30 June, 7.30pm Bishop Auckland Town Hall June, 8pm Formerly Bucks Fizz Edinburgh Alun Armstrong Theatre - Civic Hall June Previews Stanley Happy Cats bring 30 years of rock and with Featuring original members Cheryl Baker, roll experience and garnish it with some John Mike Nolan and Jay Aston. £21-£23. good humour Kearns & 01207 299 110 www.civichallstanley.co.uk Lauren Art with Heart present Declaration Friday 30 June, 7.30pm an autobiographical comedy with Pattison storytelling and conversation The Witham, Barnard Castle Abba Mania £10 to £12. 01833 650 930 Empire Theatre, Consett July www.funnywaytobe.com £18.50-£19.50. Box Office: 01207 218 171 www.leisureworks.net Through the decades with Roy Orbison Saturday 24 June, 9am and Buddy Holly is an uplifting show 28th Durham Dales Challenge Friday 30 June and Saturday 1 July, that will entertain you with all the hits 7pm from the two greats Wolsingham Masonic Hall JSLN Ballet with Variations of Also don’t miss our Hilarity Bites £11-£14, includes refreshments on Pointe 2 route, meal at finish, badge and comedy nights and film programme certificate. 07919 108 036. Online Spennymoor Settlement’s Everyman running throughout the season entries only at www.sientries.co.uk Theatre Mixture of classical, modern and Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm comedy ballet. £8-£12. 01388 816 430 www.spennymoorsettlement.co.uk Durham Singers: Summer concert Friday 30 June, 8pm St Brandon’s Church, Brancepeth A CHOIR! A VOICE! Summer Includes music by Barber, Stanford, concert Chilcott, Britten and traditional folk Elvet Methodist Church, Durham songs. £12. 07790 148 062 Gospel, jazz, 50s/60s pop and musical www.durham-singers.org theatre. £10 and £6 child tickets. Available at the door. Sunday 25 June, 8am Durham Rambling Club Saturday 1 July, 10.00am to 4.30pm Keswick Cartas & Charters Family Fun Day! For the full listings please visit Three hikes in the Keswick area, a 12, The Cloister Garth, Durham Cathedral www.bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk 9 and 6 mile walk. £10 per person coach A special family fun day to celebrate or call 03000 269524 fare. Coach picks up at various locations Magna Carta and the Forest Charters. in and around Durham City. A free event open to all. No need to 07706 871 812 book. 0191 374 4070 www.durhamramblingclub.org.uk [email protected]

Sunday 25 June, 2.30pm to 5pm The Mighty Wurlitzer admission to Open Treasure for New Victoria Centre, Howden-le-Wear two adults and two children Mighty Wurlitzer summer concert Question: What is the name of the family fun day? Featuring organist Scott Harrison. £8. 01388 762 467 www.netoa.org.uk ......

Wednesday 28 June, 7.30pm Name ...... Royal Opera House Live Tel ...... Presents: Othello Postcode ...... The Witham, Barnard Castle Address ...... Email ...... £8-£15. 01833 631 107 See page 2 for entry details. Fill in the form www.thewitham.org.uk ...... or enter online at www.durham.gov.uk/dcn

What’s on 31 Make ordinary moments extraordinary

Fosterwith Durham County Council Find out more at one of our drop-in information sessions: Saturday 20 May, 10am-2pm, County Hall, Durham Monday 5 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm, County Hall, Durham Thursday 15 June, 11am-1pm, Durham Town Hall

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