MARCH 2015

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

POSITIVELY STOCKTON-ON-TEES

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council Big plans, bright future dns1937.qxp_Stockton News Full Page 27/02/2015 11:45 Page 1

CONTENTS

Stockton Duathlon Festival Run-Cycle-Run Sunday 26 April 2015

The changing face Take your pick! Positively Stockton- of Stockton 6 24 on-Tees 36 CONTENTS News Round Up Economic Regeneration Community 4 and Transport 6 Safety 14

BIG NEWS FOR BIG PLANS FOR AN BIG PLANS FOR KEEPING STOCKTON-ON-TEES OUTSTANDING BOROUGH OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE Be inspired. Be part of the action – one of the UK’s Children and Arts, Culture Adults biggest and best Duathlons returns! Young People 16 and Leisure 21 Services 26

3 distances suitable for elite athletes and absolute beginners: BIG PLANS FOR THE YOUNG BIG PLANS FOR GREAT BIG PLANS FOR THE PEOPLE OF OUR BOROUGH EXPERIENCES CARE WE PROVIDE Novice - 2k run, 10k cycle, 1k run Health and Environment Strong Sprint - 5k run, 20k cycle, 2.5k run Wellbeing 28 and Housing 30 Communities 35

Standard - 10k run, 40k cycle, 5k run BIG PLANS FOR THE BIG PLANS FOR OUR BIG PLANS FOR HELPING HEALTH OF OUR PEOPLE PLACES AND OPEN SPACES OUR COMMUNITIES PROSPER • Cash prizes: £500 for 1st, £300 for 2nd and £200 for 3rd (standard distance only) Your What’s On Council 40 44 • Age Group qualifier for World and European Championships AMBITIOUS, EFFECTIVE BIG PLANS FOR • Fully closed road multi-lap town centre circuit AND PROUD TO SERVE THE FUTURE • All abilities welcomed and encouraged • Goodie bags for all entrants MARCH 2015 Stockton News is published by Stockton- Stockton News aims to provide news and Stockton News is produced by Stockton on-Tees Borough Council and distributed information about the Council, its partner Council’s Communications Team and To book your place visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews to households across the Borough free organisations and local community designed by Twentyseven Design. Pictures of charge. If you have not received a groups and businesses. Every effort courtesy of Dave Charnley, Peter Mernagh, copy please call 01642 526098 or email is made to ensure all information is Gary Walsh, Gilbert Johnston, Rebecca [email protected] accurate and up-to-date at the time of Hues, Doug Moody, Bosh Creative, Evening

In association with POSITIVELY publication. Your views and comments Gazette, Dave Jamieson, Dawn McNamara STOCKTON-ON-TEES are welcome. and others. Cover image by Vicky Holt.

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council Big plans, bright future There is an audio version of Stockton News. Call 01642 526098 to order a copy or email [email protected]

PAGE 3 NEWS ROUND UP NEWS ROUND UP

Flooding in Port Clarence WELCOME TO THIS Norton SPRING EDITION OF STOCKTON NEWS photographer It’s that time of year when we set our annual budget for delivering services to you. This year has been another pulls off quite challenging one as we face further reductions in funding for the Borough’s services. As always, we remain a coop! absolutely committed to delivering the very best services we can and you can read all about this on page 42. We’re continuing to deliver our “Invest to Save” initiatives – on This hen-sational pages 30 and 31 you can read an update on the street shot by Norton-based lighting replacement programme, which is well on track to deliver annual savings of £1.8million while also photographer Gary benefitting two young local apprentices. We also continue Port Clarence flood Walsh has bagged to recognise that this is a time of great change and many him the title Olympus/ challenges as welfare reforms continue to have an impact. works set to start You can read about the work we’ve been doing to support Master Photographers A scheme to protect homes and people through these changes on page 40. Association Wedding businesses in Port Clarence from There’s positive news to bring you on the regeneration Photographer of the Year. work in town centres across the Borough. The flooding is set to get under way. Gary’s unusual shot captured happy transformation of Stockton Town Centre is now The Environment Agency scheme will involve the construction couple Sarah Mayhew and Mike Craddock complete, but the changes have been far from just of a flood defence wall and is expected to be completed later in front of a hen house that once physical; they are also creating a real buzz with a host this year. belonged to Sarah’s great grandparents. of new businesses putting down roots here. Our housing The Government has allocated £9million of Flood Defence “It was one of many I took on the day Gary’s winning shot also netted the happy couple £1,000! regeneration schemes are also on track to deliver first Grant in Aid funding for the scheme following a bid from the but so many clients visiting my studio class homes and you can read an update Environment Agency and Stockton Council. were talking about it that I decided to on them on page 32. Port Clarence and the surrounding area suffered severe flood enter it into the competition,” said Gary. Don’t forget to pull out and keep our spring/summer damage in December 2013, when it was hit by the worst tidal “I’m glad I did!” surge in more than 150 years. events guide, it’s full of great ways to spend your time in Stockton-on-Tees. 2015 promises to be another Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard great year of events in the Borough – you won’t want McGuckin, said: “There is a vital need to improve flood A trader hands over some free goodies defences for Port Clarence so the start of work on site will to miss them! A love story with a happy ending! come as a welcome relief for many residents.” Stockton’s Love Your Local Market celebrations And finally, you might have noticed a radical new look on A second phase of flood defence work is also planned at the front cover of this edition of Stockton News. Don’t be Greatham Creek to offer greater protection to the large have scooped a prestigious national prize. too alarmed though – it’s just a one-off! The truth is, we’ve industries based around Seal Sands. Traders at Stockton’s 700-year-old traditional market used last been so overwhelmed by your response to the Positively To find out more, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/flooding or May’s event as an opportunity to thank their customers through Stockton-on-Tees campaign we thought it deserved www.environment-agency.co.uk where residents can a series of random acts of kindness. nothing less. You can read more about it on pages 36 and also sign-up to a free flood alert service. The move saw unsuspecting customers receive gifts ranging 37. Thank you for all your support for this campaign and from a free bunch of bananas or a cup of tea to a warm hug or please, keep your stories, pictures and even a meal for two! poems coming. And now they’ve been given something in return – the trophy for Best Love Your Local Market Event at this year’s Great British Market Awards! Graham Wilson OBE, Chief Executive of awards organiser the National Association of British Market Authorities, said: “Love Your Local Market has become the biggest ever markets event in the United Kingdom with 926 markets taking part in 2014. “It is all about celebrating the importance of markets and connecting with the local community. The judges felt Stockton’s entry fulfilled both of these objectives in a very Neil Schneider effective way.” Chief Executive, This year’s Love Your Local Market celebrations take place from Stockton Borough Council May 13 to 27 – look out for details of what’s on offer this time.

PAGE 4 PAGE 5 ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

4 Shambles car park 5 Water feature 6 Enterprise Arcade It couldn’t be easier to access the A stylish water feature, surrounded Stockton’s new Enterprise Arcade new look High Street – 34 short stay by trees, lighting and grassed areas at 35-37 High Street provides parking bays have been created provides a focal point for the town low cost, low risk retail space for outside The Shambles so people can where people can meet, sit, relax and up to 16 fledgling retailers. The park at the heart of the action. enjoy their visit to the High Street. stunning building was renovated and refurbished using funding from Stockton Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. A wide range of exciting businesses are already trading in this beautiful shop. The changing face of Stockton Not only does the town look much more attractive than it did two The final pieces of the new and a half years ago, new parking and road layouts are making it easier for people to take advantage of the many events, look Stockton Town Centre specialist markets, shops, businesses and places to eat too. are coming together – and The major regeneration began in September 2012 – here are just some of the changes which have been the result is spectacular! made along the way.

5 2 7 3 4 1 9 6 8

1 Dodshon’s Fountain 2 New street lights 3 Plinth 7 A permanent home for 8 High Street car park 9 New seating and paving Though bright and modern, the High New state-of-the-art street lighting Outside Marks and Spencer a Stockton Market An additional 23 short stay spaces are There are plenty of places to stop and Street’s history has not been left behind columns now illuminate the High handsome new granite plinth bears a All of the stalls on Stockton’s 700 available in a new car park opposite take a break from the hustle and bustle and the iconic Dodshon’s Fountain Street with LED lighting. The lights poem by internationally published local year old market have had a make- the Sun Public House. The area can thanks to attractive new seating across can now be found closer to its original installed along the side of each poet, Mark Robinson. The poem hints over and thanks to their new blue also be easily converted into an events the town centre. The new grey paving location at the southern end of the High column can be synchronised to bring at the town’s industrial past and at the and white striped canopies, they are space which means visitors can now has revamped the overall look of the Street. The Fountain was moved as a spectacular spectrum of colours to form of the Stockton Flyer automaton, resplendent in the dedicated market enjoy large markets and other events High Street too. part of works to update paving, road the wide range of events in the town. which the plinth will house. As well space created at the southern end of right on the High Street. surfaces, lighting, street furniture as becoming home to the Flyer, the the High Street. and signage as well as improving the plinth also serves as a stage for small location of bus stops and taxi ranks. performances and will occasionally be used for temporary sculptures in a similar way to the fourth plinth in London’s famous Trafalgar Square.

PAGE 6 PAGE 7 ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT A place for enterprise The majestic 35-37 High Street has been A place for heritage transformed into the striking home of Stockton’s Stockton prides itself on its history, from architecture to Enterprise Arcade. railways and myths to inventions, the town’s stunning historic character is celebrated with some beautiful public art pieces The 140 year old property is located opposite well worth exploring. the new water feature and seating area, offering the perfect setting for fledgling businesses and up and coming entrepreneurs to test their retail ideas in a low cost, low risk environment. The Enterprise Arcade is a real gem on Stockton High Street. Where else can you find a hub of independent shops, all offering something A place for leisure different to most other town and retail centres, under one roof? There’s an abundance of things to see and do. Last year the Arts Council extended its A place for events funding for Arc, which offers all manner of dance, musical, It’s not just the restaurants that are theatrical and cinematic A place for students mouthwatering – the prospect of SIRF15 experiences. Meanwhile, live in the new look High Street is too! A busy music is regularly performed The owners of the Castlegate Centre, Ellandi are working and varied year-round calendar of events at numerous venues including with “study hotel” company, Urban Student Life to bring the means Stockton never ceases to amaze. the Georgian Theatre and vacant Swallow Hotel back into use as luxurious student Jaw dropping shows, community filled Storytellers whilst the Splash accommodation. The move will bring a new, vibrant student carnivals, cultural outings, sports Leisure Centre and Stockton community living within walking distance of the rejuvenated festivals for all abilities and musical Central Library continue to Town Centre’s shops, eateries and leisure facilities. It will also marvels are just some of the captivating provide a diverse selection of see the building undergo a transformation, offering more than delights you’ll find to enjoy in Stockton activities in the heart of the 130 rooms as well as common areas like a cinema and multi- Town Centre. Town Centre. faith prayer rooms.

It’s not just about bricks and mortar – Stockton not hard to see why Stockton has become such Town Centre’s physical transformation has been an attractive proposition for investment. matched by a major shift in the quality of what’s There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in on offer. A host of quirky independent shops, this exciting and bustling, year round destination first class restaurants and quaint cafes are – Stockton is well worth rediscovering! To find out STOCKTON- voting with their feet and setting up home. more visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk But this is just the beginning because even more businesses are queuing up to join the revival. Add internationally renowned events and heritage THE PLACE TO BE projects to the new look Town Centre mix and it’s

A place to eat and drink A place to shop Stockton’s jam packed full of culinary delights, whether As well as its two traditional shopping you want to stop for lunch or a coffee after a busy day’s centres, Stockton has more than 100 shopping or have a special event to celebrate with a drink independent shops! Toy shops, sweet or an evening meal. shops, fabric shops, children’s clothes shops, cheesemongers, pet boutiques, The range of restaurants and cafes is continuing to grow delicatessens – there’s something to suit and some big names are arriving. Costa Coffee has everyone’s shopping needs. opened two shops joining the many other fantastic coffee shops, tea rooms and eateries such as Mohujos, Borge, The popular traditional market takes place Carpaccio, Bar Vista, Remember Me Tea Rooms and every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Kaminaki Greek Taverna, each renowned for their popular From March to December it’s complemented menus and customer service. Stockton’s pub scene is by a busy and varied specialist markets becoming ever more diverse too, with the Hambletonian programme – whether you’re a foodie, a Yard recently becoming home to the The Golden Smog, a sci-fi fan, a retro collector or a book worm “micro pub” offering an eclectic range of specialty beers there’ll be something for you. More specialist from around the globe. market details on page 10.

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The Billingham Arms, soon to be the site of a new Aldi store

Surveying their Billingham investment are (left to right) St. Modwen’s Rob Richardson, Tony Donnelly and Richard Bannister

Another vote of confidence in Billingham

The future continues to look bright for Billingham improved facilities at John Whitehead Park, while Aldi will Town Centre after one of the UK’s leading regeneration open a store on the site of the dilapidated Billingham Arms specialists, St. Modwen, purchased it from Stockland. hotel early next year. And St. Mowden plans to follow the lead of Stockton Council Richard Bannister, Development Manager at St. Modwen, and partners who have breathed new life into the town. said: “The centre is very important to the people of Upcoming dates The town has already benefited from a new £2.7million Billingham. We look forward to progressing our vision to for your diary: Library and Customer Service Centre and the redevelopment further regenerate it and attract new businesses but to also of Billingham Forum. The Council and the town centre’s ensure that existing businesses can strengthen and grow. Easter Market – former owners have invested £2.3million in high quality “The town centre has already benefited from recent Made in Stockton (Schools) paving, seating and lighting as well as new public toilets investment to improve public facilities and we plan to Wednesday 18 March and CCTV. People visiting the town can also enjoy new and expand on the work that has already been carried out.” 10am - 2pm Farmers’ Market Specialist markets Saturday 28 March 9am - 2pm Sandwich shop take centre stage Chic Vintique Saturday 11 April Remember Stockton’s The Sparkles Market was the first to 10am - 4pm thrives thanks be held on the High Street and what bustling Sparkles Continental Market an occasion it was! More than 7,000 (including a Vintage Car Rally) Market? Well that was people flocked to this magical hive of Fri 17 & Sat 18 April to new renewable Christmas activity making it Stockton’s 10am - 5pm Heidi McCullagh serves construction just a taste of things to biggest ever specialist market. Sun 19 April workers at the Air Products site And reaction was overwhelmingly energy plant come throughout 2015. 10am - 5pm positive. Rachel Pattison sells Stockton’s specialist markets handmade cupcakes and was amazed Farmers’ Market Renewable Energy Plant at the New A delighted Heidi said: “Large programme promises to bring even A Port Clarence sandwich by the popularity of the event. “The Saturday 25 April Energy Technology Park, one of the Tees businesses like Air Products are really more tempting tasty treats and quality crowds around each stall were at least 9am - 2pm shop is booming after Valley Enterprise Zone sites. helping local businesses like mine unique products to the vibrant heart of three deep!” she said. securing a major contract thrive. I’m delighted that we have been Stockton’s High Street this year. Retro Market Heidi McCullagh bought R Clarke and ‘I Love Stockton Me’ blogger, Amy, Sons seven years ago when it was a able to secure such a big contract – it The jam-packed 2015 programme Saturday 9 May from a Billingham based wrote: “I have a rather strong feeling butcher’s shop. Since then she has will not only generate increased sales offers more choice than ever before. 10am - 4pm Renewable Energy Plant. that I’m going to run out of words to transformed it into a popular sandwich for my business it has also created new Familiar favourites such as Chic describe just how brilliant it was, and All of Stockton’s Specialist Markets offer R Clarke and Sons sandwich shop has shop and successful catering business. jobs for the local area and allowed me to Vintique and the Farmers’ Market free entry and a fun day out for the whole branched out into a new line of business – work with the Council to secure funding just how impressed I was.” Five more staff, including a manager and are joined by a host of exciting new family. For full details see the Spring/ ‘Catering in Style’ – offering onsite canteen for three apprentices.” markets including a Food Festival, “Stockton, forgive us for ignoring two apprentices, were employed as a Summer events guide in the centre of catering services and events catering. R Clarke and Sons regularly provides Book Fair, Ka-Pow (Sci-Fi) you for so long; we will not make that direct result of the new contract so now 17 this magazine, keep an eye on Stockton Catering in Style now provides catering catering for several chemical companies Family Fun Day and Retro Market. mistake twice,” said an impressed people work across the two businesses. Council’s Facebook and Twitter channels, for the 750 strong workforce constructing across the Tees Valley area and has Emily from Yarm, who visited or visit: www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk with her family. Air Products’ new advanced gasification secured other corporate and events work.

PAGE 10 PAGE 11 ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT Keeping Ingleby Barwick leisure communities connected facility a step closer The new centre is one of a series of proposed investments People in some of the more remote Ingleby Barwick could soon designed to support growth in the south of the Borough. In parts of the Borough are now able be home to its very own addition, £19million of improvements are already planned to access bus services again to the highways network over the next two years. thanks to partnership working swimming pool, library and with Stockton Council. customer service point. Last spring the subsidy the Council paid to bus A preferred site for a £10 million leisure complex has been operators to help sustain some rural, weekend identified within an open area of land on the All Saints and non-commercial routes came to an end. Since Academy site. Work could start as early as next year with then the Council has been working closely with Town the facility opening in summer 2017. and Parish Councils and third sector partners to make Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard sure residents in more remote parts of the Borough McGuckin, is pleased the scheme is progressing: “Ingleby can still access doctors’ surgeries, local shops, banks, Barwick has experienced huge growth over the years but chemists and other essential services by bus. lacks local public leisure facilities. What we are proposing A new bus service linking Kirklevington, Hilton and will address that gap and we are delighted with the support Maltby to Yarm and Thornaby is set to operate two days a we have received from the Diocese of York, the Academy and week from 9.30am to 2.30pm. its governors. And residents in Long Newton have also welcomed “We are looking at a centre with a 25-metre swimming pool, the return of a village bus service. Service 88 runs to gym, fitness rooms, library and customer service point and Stockton via Elton and Hartburn and to Yarm through associated parking but we’ll consult with local people to Eaglescliffe on Wednesdays and Fridays. identify the precise mix of facilities on offer.” For more information about community transport solutions call Jonathan Kibble, Stockton Council’s Principal Transport Headteacher at All Saints Academy, Kevin Mann, added: Villagers from Long Newton get the new number 88 to Stockton. Pictures courtesy of The Gazette Officer on 01642 526735. “We are delighted to be involved in a project which will significantly enhance the facilities available to the people of Ingleby Barwick and would intend to make good use of New long stay car parking for Yarm the facilities ourselves for the benefit of our students.” Construction of a new 38 space Meanwhile, an £800,000 scheme to long-stay car park behind improve car parking at Preston Park is under way. High quality sympathetic Barclays Bank on Yarm High resurfacing work to create 252 extra Street is now complete. spaces on the southern field behind The future looks BRIGHT Yarm Wharf car park will complement Butterfly World is due for completion A Stockton-based business is enjoying growing by Easter with drainage improvements the existing long-stay car parks at Castle success since finding life after the local authority. Dyke Wynd and The Old Market as well as at the northern overflow car park the short-stay spaces on the High Street. due for completion in May, weather One IT Services and Solutions is a mutual not-for-profit organisation based in Preston Farm, Eaglescliffe. Preparatory work has also started on a permitting. Like all current parking The company provides ICT services to schools and was set new 45 space long-stay car park behind at Preston Park, the new parking will up by former Stockton Council employees in April 2014 with the Blue Bell pub on the Egglescliffe side remain free of charge. support from the Council. of Yarm Bridge. The entrepreneurs took on the Council’s existing ICT support Stockton Council’s Head of Technical services and now provide support, installation, maintenance, Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “We The long-stay car park in Yarm will complement the consultancy and cloud services to more than 130 schools want to make it as easy as possible for parking arrangements on Yarm High Street, where throughout the Borough and wider North East region. people visiting, working and living in parking is free for the first 60 minutes then just £1 for Yarm to park and have been working Managing Director Andrea Warburton said: “We are delighted hard for a number of years to find the next two hours and £1 per hour after that, with no with the incredible progress we have made since last April parking solutions to meet their needs. maximum stay. Charges apply from 9am to 5pm, Monday and the support we have received from the Council. In the past year we have increased our workforce with two “I’m delighted we are now seeing this to Saturday, but do not apply on Sundays or Bank Holidays. apprentices and secured 11 more schools as clients.” ambition become a reality. The new car The One IT team For further information about One IT, visit the company parks will be an asset to the thriving town.” website: www.oneitss.org.uk PAGE 12 PAGE 13 COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMUNITY SAFETY

Stockton Council has underlined its zero Signing-up to tolerance attitude to illegal money lending by Pulling the plug signing the local Stop Loan Sharks charter. stop loan sharks The Charter brings people together to create a united on cable thieves statement that loan sharks will not be tolerated in the local community. Criminals stealing high voltage electricity Council representatives were joined at the signing by cable are affecting residents and representatives from its community partners, the England businesses across the Borough. Illegal Money Lending Team and Stockton’s financial inclusion The Safer Stockton Partnership, Northern Powergrid, the group, Infinity. company responsible for running the region’s electricity Tony Quigley, Head of the England Illegal Money Lending network, and Crimestoppers have joined forces to help track Team, said: “We will continue to work with Stockton Council down thieves who are inconveniencing local people and to crack down on loan sharks operating in the area, and disrupting businesses. encourage victims to speak out.” Since June 2014, thieves have attacked Northern Powergrid’s network 20 times causing power cuts for 5,000 residents. If you or someone you know has been affected by a loan Around 5,000 metres of live high voltage copper cabling has shark, you can call the England Illegal Money Lending Team been recklessly taken from the local power network costing helpline 24/7 in confidence on 0300 555 2222. Northern Powergrid £600,000 to replace and repair. Alternatively, email [email protected]. Northern Powergrid and crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers uk or send a private message on Stockton Council and partners sign the Stop Loan Sharks charter are urging residents to take a stand against the thieves and www.facebook.com/stoploansharksproject pass on any information they may have. A cash reward of up to £1,000 is available for anyone who provides information leading to an arrest and conviction. Return of the road safety champions! Nigel Walker, Northern Powergrid’s Vulnerable Assets Manager, said: “These attacks on our network are totally Pupils from Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary The event was organised by Stockton Council’s Road Safety unacceptable and we want to reassure local people that we Team and supported by TFM, The Forum Theatre Pantomime Primary managed yet again to overcome strong will continue our work with the police, local partners and the and Tees Active, who generously donated prizes. community so we can pull the plug on the thieves. opposition and defend their title as champions of “Through partnership we have a much greater chance of the 18th annual Road Safety Quiz. identifying those responsible; stopping criminal damage to the After the early entries were whittled down to a final three, local power network and preventing further disruption for our including Myton Park Primary and Billingham South residential and business customers.” Community Primary, the schools pitted their wits against Geoff Lee, Chair of the Safer Stockton Partnership, added: each other in a tightly contested final held at the Stockton “Enough is enough – we’d like to urge the public to be vigilant Baptist Tabernacle. and report any suspicious activity. These reckless thieves And Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Primary emerged are showing complete disregard for our businesses and victorious again to retain their status as Road Safety Quiz communities and their actions are totally unacceptable. champions for another year! “They are costing law abiding citizens and businesses thousands of pounds as well as exposing themselves and The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Barbara Inman, said: others to serious injury or worse.” “Congratulations to the pupils from all three schools for their hard work. It was a very close final but there could Anyone with information can call Northern Powergrid’s The Mayor presents the Road Safety Quiz trophy to Our Lady of the Most only be one winner!” Holy Rosary Primary pupils (left to right) Oliver Farnaby, Libby McKee, emergency 24-hour number 0800 66 88 77 or the charity Thomas Caird, Ailish Callaghan Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. The damage cable thieves can cause

Making our Borough safer Educating and protecting the community (especially the Borough’s youngest generation) about crime is also a priority The CPP, a registered charity, works in partnership with for the CPP. The CPP has provided extra funding to help the For more than 17 years dedicated Cleveland Police and Stockton Council to fund and support police carry out test purchase operations to address licensed volunteers on Stockton’s Crime a wide range of projects that help prevent and detect crime premises illegally selling products to underage young people. as well as protecting people and property. The Panel has also funded specialist hate crime sessions for secondary school pupils. Prevention Panel (CPP) have One of the projects successfully supported with funding from worked hard to reduce both crime the Panel is the Safe at Home scheme, which helps victims of Businesses wishing to make a difference in reducing crime crime and people who may feel vulnerable to crime, including and disorder within the Borough are welcome to get involved. and disorder and the fear of it survivors of domestic abuse. During the last year the scheme For more information on the CPP, or to get involved, contact has seen locks, bolts, door chains and lights fitted to help Stockton Council’s Community Safety Officer, Dale Metcalfe, within Stockton Borough. hundreds of residents feel safer in their own homes. on 01642 527827.

PAGE 14 PAGE 15 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE NEW SKILLS ACADEMY Stockton schools at FOR BILLINGHAM the top of the table Jason Faulkner, Stockton Riverside Entry and Level 1 vocational courses A £1.6million training College’s Assistant Principal will be available for people who wish to centre is taking shape Curriculum, said: “The Skills Academy pursue a career in Creative Arts, Media, Four of Stockton’s will provide a new option for post-16 Construction, Health and Social Care, in Billingham. learners that wasn’t available before.” Child Care and The Prince’s Trust high-performing Team programme. The Skills Academy is being built on the old Billingham Campus site, off Marsh Checking out the progress of The Skills Academy construction are (from left to right): state schools have House Avenue. Stockton Riverside College Assistant Principal, Jason Faulkner, Stockton Council Architect, Mike Smith, Egglescliffe School Headteacher, Simon White and Stockton Council’s Head of been recognised Once open it will help young people get Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford a foot on the jobs ladder by offering a range of vocational courses, backed by nationally for their English and maths. top-class work. The Skills Academy was given the greenlight following a successful bid St Therese of Lisieux RC Primary for Education Funding Agency funding School in Ingleby Barwick and by Stockton Borough Council, in Junction Farm Primary School, partnership with Egglescliffe School. Eaglescliffe were listed in the Sunday Times’ recent list of top performing Courses at the centre, which will cater North East primary schools. for up to 180 students, will be delivered by Stockton Riverside College. The Conyers School and Egglescliffe St Therese of Lisieux Headteacher Catherine Stott celebrates with pupils centre is due to open in April with School also ranked in the top ten of applications now being taken for North East secondary schools put courses starting in September. together by the Sunday newspaper.

All four of these Stockton Borough schools are rated “Good” or “Outstanding” by Ofsted.

Catherine Stott, Headteacher of St Therese of Lisieux RC Primary School, Teacher John said: “We are very proud of all of our children and we have so much to celebrate. St Therese of Lisieux is a wonderful place to grow and develop a is best in class! love of lifelong learning within a warm and caring environment.” Conyers teacher Jonathan Thoburn takes a science lesson Northfield School’s John Burgess Conyers Headteacher Louise has been crowned Teacher of the Year! Spellman added: “We are delighted to feature in the North East Top 10. This John, science curriculum leader at the Billingham school, highlights the excellent performance received the national accolade as part of the at both GCSE and A-level of our Teaching Awards Trust’s Pearson students. Such standards are Teaching Awards. achieved because of the hard work After suffering a spinal cord injury playing rugby and dedication of our staff and the in 2004 which left him partially paralysed and in support of parents. It is a real team a wheelchair, John was determined to continue effort to ensure every single student his teaching career. achieves the best possible outcome.” Awards organisers described John as “an exceptional Yarm School also featured in the teacher of Science” and said his “students’ admiration Sunday Times’ independent schools for him knows no bounds.” category, coming second in the With over 11 years’ experience, he has been commended top 10 independent North East by colleagues for supporting and inspiring his pupils to secondary schools. achieve their potential. Teacher of the Year John Burgess Headteacher Karen Norton celebrates with children from Junction Farm Primary School PAGE 16 PAGE 17 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

It’s all about Thornaby (left to right): Emma Hawkins, Keira Poulton, Jacob Jenkinson, Millie Smith All the help you need in one place Stockton’s new Local Offer website was There is also information on the services available to launched at a parents’ conference in January. families and carers and details of the support that can be accessed by children and young people with and without an The website, designed in partnership with parent and carer Education, Health and Care plan. participation group Stockton United for Change, provides information about the local services available for children The user friendly site will be regularly updated so families and and young people (aged 0 to 25) with special educational professionals have access to the same information all in one needs and disabilities (SEND) in Stockton Borough. place. To find out more, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/localoffer

It’s all about Thornaby

Children at a Thornaby John, who has featured regularly on Headteacher of The Village Primary BBC Radio and performed at Edinburgh School, Simon Lidgard, said: “The primary school turned Festival, showed a group of more than 20 children thoroughly enjoyed the Year Six pupils how to write in a fun and experience of working with John. It was to song writing to put easy way. wonderful to see them so enthused and their town on the map. They used a ‘giant poetry’ pencil to inspired. John certainly encouraged them to suggest some fantastic ideas. The Village Primary School pupils worked share their ideas and once the poetic with comic poet, John Hegley, to pen their song was complete they performed it “The finished song was a really song as part of the Northern Children’s as a song with John strumming the wonderful example of our young Book Festival. chords on his mandolin. people’s pride in their home town.”

Making a song and dance (left to right) are Ciara Beveridge, Ben Campbell, Brogan Chapman, Ryan Catterson and Megan Wyatt The Thornaby Song (composed by John Hegley and pupils of The Village Primary School) I wanna be in Thornaby Early support for children and their families The shops are top Stockton’s children, young The national Common Assessment parents’ consent, this information will people and families with Framework (CAF) is a simple tool be collected in a single shared point that I wanna be in Thornaby which professionals can use to identify can be accessed by professionals from additional needs can access those who may need help for a range of a range of agencies to plan appropriate The parks don’t stop prompt, multi-agency support reasons including health, behaviour and help to meet individual needs. development issues. I wanna be in Thornaby thanks to the introduction of a For more information about CAF, The Framework enables professionals contact the dedicated CAF Team on The VP School more coordinated approach to to assess important aspects of a child’s 01642 526123 or email: assessing their needs. life, family and environment. With [email protected] I wanna be in Thornaby

The Thornaby pool Then volunteering with the Youth Offending Team could be I wanna be in Thornaby Youth Offending Team just the thing for you. Volunteers are currently being sought to work with young offenders and their families to help turn their My home’s here seeking volunteers lives around. Full training is provided. I wanna be in Thornaby Are you looking for an opportunity to get more involved To find out more contact the Youth Offending Team on in your community and to support young people? 01642 527 597 or email [email protected] Pictures courtesy of the Gazette Mama Mia!

PAGE 18 PAGE 19 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE Praise for sons The children work with artist Ingi Jensson and daughters Day in of foster carers the Life Richard Kilty World Champion Stockton athlete Richard Kilty shocked the world in 2014 when he won the 60m gold medal at the World Indoor Championships in Poland. The 25-year-old ‘Teesside Tornado’ delivered Team GB their only gold medal of the championships, storming to victory with an incredible personal best of just 6.49 seconds – but the sprinter still has his feet firmly on the ground in his hometown Stockton. Richard first started running as a pupil at Mill Lane Primary School before deciding to pursue it professionally with support from his dad, Kevin. These days his growing success takes him around the world but in between seasons he always returns to the Borough where he prepared for his world title. Day to day Richard follows a rigorous meal plan and disciplined training routine on Stockton’s Riverside. “I tend to train on the banks of the River Tees, the Tees Barrage or at Wynyard Woodland Park. The scenery and the landmarks are instantly recognisable. It’s a really peaceful area to train without any distractions,” he says. “My first training session after winning gold was here on the Infinity Bridge.” The sons and daughters of foster carers Council for the valuable contributions become foster carers despite having Kevin, who also plays a part in advising his son’s nutrition in Stockton have had the opportunity they are making to the community by their own birth children, as this often and training plan, added: “Stockton is a big part of our to express their thoughts and feelings supporting their parents to look after some deters people from making an enquiry. lives. We found it difficult to get to a track but the banks through a cartoon about what it’s like to of Stockton’s most vulnerable children. Ellysha, aged eight from Eaglescliffe, is of the River Tees were a great training ground. Stockton, live with a family that fosters. The children, aged between five and 13, part of a fostering family and was one the Riverside and its iconic bridges will always be part of The children took part in a cartoon worked with Icelandic artist, Ingi Jensson, of the children behind the cartoon. She the memories when I think of the day my son became a workshop, after being recognised by the who has been making cartoons for over 15 said: “I think fostering is one of the best world champion.” years and has had his comics published things ever! Fostering gives me lots of Richard is now turning his attention to preparations for this nationally in the UK and Scandinavia. children to play with, and I enjoy being year’s World Athletics Championships in Beijing with his As a group, the children came up with a a role model ‘big sister’ to them and sights firmly set on the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. real-life story and quirky characters for making them laugh. When I’m older, I “I want to shock the world again,” he says. “It’s been a cartoon strip about their experiences would like to be a foster carer myself.” a crazy journey. There is nothing like standing on of welcoming a child into their home and In Stockton Borough, there are around that podium and hearing the national anthem, it’s the adventures and challenges that this 380 children and young people who unbelievable. I’m so proud to represent Stockton and brings to a fostering family. cannot, for a variety of reasons, live with the North East, everyone has been so supportive and the The cartoon shows how positive fostering their own families. The Council now reception here has been absolutely amazing.” can be for both a looked after child and needs more people to come forward When he isn’t competing, Richard finds the time to the child of a foster carer. It is hoped to become foster carers and adoptive give back to the community by coaching young athletes that it will also inspire more people to parents to meet their needs. and giving seminars at sports clubs across the region. He hopes to inspire those around him and eventually would like to set up a gym or academy, giving others the If you are interested in fostering or adoption, you opportunity to realise their dreams just as he has. can request an information pack by contacting the “I’m just an average lad from Stockton who can run Child Placement Team on 01642 526218 or visit: fast,” he says. “Hopefully my success will make people recognise that there are world class opportunities here. You can see the full cartoon strip at www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering www.stockton.gov.uk/fosteringandadoption If you have aspirations you can reach these heights.”

PAGE 20 PAGE 21 ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

Billingham’s brand new £2.7million Library and Stockton-based company Interserve Construction oversaw the Customer Service Centre has opened its doors! construction of the centre and the facility was opened to the public in January. The superb new facility is the latest addition to the multi- Reuben Kench, Stockton Council’s Head of Culture and Leisure, million pound regeneration of the town. said: “This brilliant new facility is the result of continued It acts as a ‘one-stop shop’ housing the main public library, investment in our libraries. I hope the improvements bring customer services for Stockton Council and Tristar Homes, a more people into Billingham to come and make the most of this Investing in wonderful new library and everything it has to offer.” cash office and the headquarters of Billingham Town Council all under one roof. The Council’s Head of Customer Services and Taxation, Debbie Hurwood, added: “It’s a real boost for Billingham to have a Visitors to the library can benefit from the latest self-service building that houses a first-class customer service centre that technology, improved ICT services and a broad range of non-fiction everyone can access.” and fiction books, while the centre’s friendly and professional librarians and customer service staff are on hand to help. For more information about the transformation of Billingham our libraries Town Centre, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/billingham

Billingham isn’t the only place to benefit from new and improved library facilities. Libraries across the Borough have been upgraded, modernised and even newly built as part of Stockton Council’s wider investment programme. And modern libraries are about far more than books – they’re places to meet, have fun, enjoy events and get involved in community groups. The new look library in Norton celebrated its reopening in November with a fortnight of events, author sessions and activities before its official unveiling in a special ribbon cutting ceremony in January. A new sign adorns the outside of the building while an extensive refurbishment inside has brought new shelves, furniture, IT services, self-serve terminals and books. A dedicated meeting room and a new community health room for use by community health services also been introduced as part of the upgrade. Last year also saw Roseworth Library and Stockton Public Health Information Library successfully move into Redhill Children’s Centre, and Thornaby Library (Westbury Street) into the Riverbank Children’s Centre. The refurbishment programme continues with work on a new look library in Yarm due to get under way later this year. To find out more about libraries across the Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries

PAGE 22 PAGE 23 ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE STOCKTON CALLING SATURDAY 04 APRIL 2015 More than 60 bands, eight venues, one day. The Pigeon Detectives, Neville Staple, The Ordinary Boys, Lilliput and Joe Ramsey are just some of the acts confirmed. To see the full line-up and book tickets go to www.stocktoncalling.co.uk There’s always something to do at Preston Park and the year PARKMADE TRADITIONAL round ParkMade Traditional Taster Days give you a chance to discover traditional pastimes and crafts such as wood carving, TASTER DAYS pottery and rug making. For more information visit YEAR-ROUND www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

STOCKTON CYCLING FESTIVAL TAKE YOUR PICK! FRIDAY 10 JULY – SUNDAY 12 JULY There are loads of exciting events and music gigs, there’s something Our annual three-day celebration of all things cycling returns. Why not pedal down and join in the biggest and activities happening in our for everyone. The only question is, weekend of cycling in the North East? For more info Borough over the coming months. which will you choose? visit www.stockton.gov.uk/cyclingfestival From sporting challenges and Find out more at specialist markets to book festivals www.stockton.gov.uk/events

STOCKTON STOCKTON SIRF15 SUMMER SHOW DUATHLON FESTIVAL THURSDAY 30 JULY – SUNDAY 1 AUGUST SUNDAY 30 AND MONDAY 31 AUGUST SUNDAY 26 APRIL 2015 The French aerial acrobats of CirkVOST will launch Stunt action shows, animal performances, bird of Be inspired. Be part of the action. Are you ready to run- SIRF15 with their breathtaking open air show, prey displays, fantastic food and the World Parmo cycle-run around the scenic River Tees? Then sign-up BoO. The four-day festival will feature everything Championships – there’s no excuse to miss the to one of the UK’s biggest and best Duathlons now! To from spectacular large scale shows to small and annual Summer Show at Preston Park. Find out more book your place go to www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon intimate experiences. Visit www.sirf.co.uk at www.stockton.gov.uk/summershow

PAGE 24 PAGE 25 ADULTS SERVICES ADULTS SERVICES

Lauren Frost Elizabeth Green

Catherine Watson

Hub prepares to open its doors The LiveWell Dementia Hub is Stockton Council’s Adult Services Lead, The hub has already hosted a number preparing to open its doors to Liz Hanley, said: “The LiveWell Dementia of specialist groups from Age UK the Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Hub will be a unique community-based Teesside and the Alzheimer’s Society, Learning course. welcome people with dementia, service that provides a single ‘one stop providing activities such as Cognitive Apprenticeships - Catherine, 18, is based at St Mark’s their carers and the wider public. shop’ offering all the latest information Stimulation Therapy and Race 2 Elm Tree Primary while Elizabeth, 22, is about dementia as well as the services Remember programmes. It is hoped Stockton Council and its health partners at Kirklevington Primary. Both cannot and support available locally. that more external groups will take secured Government funding to develop the a great way forward! speak highly enough of the support they advantage of the hub’s fantastic facilities hub, which will place the needs of people “As well as support groups and social are receiving from their tutors. and join together to create a varied and with dementia at the heart of its services. activities for people with dementia and Three young people are forging where she quickly achieved her Level 2. stimulating timetable for the facility. “The atmosphere is welcoming with their carers, the hub will also provide a ahead with their careers thanks Located next to the Halcyon Centre in The following year she progressed onto incredibly supportive tutors,” Catherine venue for memory service appointments, For more information about the LiveWell to apprenticeships provided by Thornaby, the hub will offer the best in an advanced apprenticeship gaining said. “I would encourage employers to offering a specialist service for people Dementia hub contact the First Contact Stockton Council’s Adult Learning dementia friendly care and design and a Level 3 qualification. open their doors to offer young people of any age who may be experiencing Team on 01642 527764 or email the hub hopes to attract users from across service, Tees Achieve. But that wasn’t the end of her apprenticeships. It can help their memory difficulties and dementia direct: [email protected] the Borough. Lauren Frost, 19, from Billingham is a unstoppable rise! Lauren was delighted businesses while giving a young person awareness sessions for anyone who prime example of how learning through to accept a Team Manager post for a six a positive step onto the career ladder.” wants to know more about dementia.” Tees Achieve can set young people on month probationary period, where she Elizabeth added: “The tutors are the road to success. was required to achieve an NVQ in Team fantastic and this is a great way to train Lauren began with a course in Leading. She successfully completed as I get experience while working.” may have. It can include help with things like washing, Foundation Learning and went on to this and has now secured a permanent For more information on Tees Achieve, Care and support dressing, eating, getting out and about and keeping in touch secure an intermediate apprenticeship contract. visit www.stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve with friends or family. in Business Administration (BA) with Meanwhile, Catherine Watson and or call 01642 527904. The Act is being introduced in two phases, with social care local company Fast Track Reclaim, Elizabeth Green are both undertaking is changing reform taking effect 1 April 2015 followed by funding reform which will take effect 1 April, 2016. If you receive care and support, or you support someone as From April 2015, a carer and would like to find out more, contact Get informed! our First Contact Team on 01642 527764. Stockton Information Directory provides local groups and Alternatively, if you have a general organisations with the opportunity to promote information care and support in enquiry regarding the Care Act and about activities, classes, support services or events which changes being introduced contact are taking place across the Borough. England is changing. our information helpline on 01642 524500. If you would like to register your group, class or organisation – you can do The Care Act 2014 introduces major adult social care so by registering and downloading the useful documents from the ‘include reforms affecting the duties of local authorities, the rights of Further information is your service’ tab at www.stocktoninformationdirectory.org those in need of care and support and their carers, and the also available on Stockton You can manage your own webpage, update your content care and support funding system. ‘Care and support’ is the Council’s website, visit on a regular basis and have your own unique web link. For term we use to describe the help some adults need to live www.stockton.gov.uk/care-act more information on the Stockton Information Directory, email as well as possible with any illness or disability they [email protected] or call 01642 524229.

PAGE 26 PAGE 27 HEALTH AND WELLBEING HEALTH AND WELLBEING Hidden dangers Talking therapies

of second One in four of us will experience issues The CCG’s local approved providers are: with our psychological or mental wellbeing Hartlepool and East Durham MIND: (01429 269303) at some point in our lives. Problems like Alliance Psychological Services Limited: (01642 352 747) hand smoke mild depression, anxiety, stress, panicking, Talking Matters Teesside: (01642 221910) nervousness, isolation and loss of sleep can Insight: (0300 555 0555) make it hard for us to cope with daily life. Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust: (0800 804 8155) NHS Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees CCG is keen to let local people who are experiencing mental distress know what services Starfish Health and Wellbeing: (01642 345212) are available to offer help and support. The CCG is also keen to reduce stigma – there is no shame in asking for some help. After a telephone assessment, you will get face-to-face help Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) helps to explore the problems you are facing and identify how best people suffering from depression and anxiety disorders get to deal with them. access to free, high quality talking treatments on the NHS. If you feel that you could benefit from talking to someone Some people think counselling isn’t for them. They ask how then please call. The earlier you get help the more positive talking about problems can really help. It can and does! Talking your outcome will be. Don’t wait until it becomes a big problem can help you work out how to deal with negative thoughts and in your life. feelings and make positive changes. For more help and information call 0345 045 0620 or The CCG works with a number of local experienced visit www.wecantalk.org organisations that your GP can refer you to or we encourage you to contact them yourself. We continue to bring you news of control. Smoke lingers in the air for “Second hand smoke is a mixture of several hours after being put out and two forms of smoke that comes from Domestic abuse is any incident or how Stockton Council, NHS health pattern of incidents of controlling, partners and other organisations clings to fabrics like clothes, curtains burning tobacco, mainstream and side and furniture. So, even if you smoke near stream smoke. Babies and children are Domestic abuse can coercive, threatening behaviour, are working together to tackle an open window or door, the smoke can particularly vulnerable as their bodies violence or abuse between those health inequalities through travel and harm others. are still growing and developing. Children aged 16 or over who are, or have been, the Borough’s Joint Health and exposed to second hand smoke are more take many forms intimate partners or family members, Stockton Council’s Health Improvement regardless of gender or sexuality. Wellbeing Strategy 2013-2018. In Specialist, Ruby Poppleton, said: at risk of bronchitis, asthma attacks and A life free of violence and abuse is a ear infections. Babies exposed are more Domestic abuse can human right, one that every woman, this issue we look at smoke free “Worryingly, recent research found 18 Domestic abuse also includes honour- at risk of cot death. If you could make man and child deserves. based violence and forced marriage. homes and cars, highlighting the per cent of North East smokers aged 25 take many forms, to 50 admit to smoking around children the change and turn your home and car Stockton Council strives for a Borough Abuse can take many forms including: smoke free you would immediately reduce poisons in smoke to encourage in the car, while 29 per cent smoke and it can certainly that is free from all forms of violence Psychological – someone blaming you the risk to your family. It doesn’t need smokers to quit. when children are present in the home. and abuse and to create a culture of for their behaviour/ checking to stop there – ask visitors in your home take its toll on Most of us still know someone who The only way to completely protect your empowerment for those who have up on you loved ones from second hand smoke is to smoke outside, ask anyone looking experienced abuse. smokes in the privacy of their own home someone’s health. Physical – someone threatening to make homes and cars entirely smoke after your children not to smoke in their or car, unaware of the damage they are presence and take some ownership to hurt you or hurting you exposing their families to. There is no free. This is backed by a national public yourself by not smoking in other people’s Sexual – being forced to take part safe level of exposure to second hand health campaign urging all smokers, especially parents to, at the very least, homes or cars even if they allow it. in unwanted sexual activity smoke and the worrying fact is that over Remember, creating a smoke free home take smoking outside. Financial – someone restricting 80 per cent of cigarette smoke is invisible and car is the only way to protect your your access to money or work and odorless, making it impossible to family, make that difference today.” Emotional – being criticised, humiliated, your feelings being For more information about the dangers of second hand smoke visit ignored or your confidence being affected www.freshne.com or contact Stockton Council’s Health Improvement Specialist, Harbour provides practical support Ruby Poppleton on 01642 526697 or email [email protected] to men and women who experience or perpetrate domestic abuse, as well Or, for further information on stop smoking services call 01642 383819. as children affected by it. For more information call 0300 20 25 25 or visit You are four times more likely to quit if you are using the local stop www.stockton.gov.uk/domesticviolence smoking service for support!

PAGE 28 PAGE 29 ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

Apprentice electrician Joe Walton (left) joins lighting operative Lee Jones on the street lighting programme

Jacob Cartwright has been working with electrician Peter Mansell, left, as part of his apprenticeship Big plans, bright future! Did you know? The seven phase programme will continue over the Stockton’s £14million street Jacob, 18, studied A-Levels in music and science at college. Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard next three years. It started in the wards with the He has always had an interest in a career as an electrician so McGuckin, said: “We’ve said from the outset that the greatest percentage of columns over 40-years-old first lighting replacement programme when a family friend told him about the apprenticeship, he was programme is about much more than improved street – there are some that are 80-years-old! keen to apply. lighting because of all the wider benefits it will bring to the local economy. It’s great to see that come to fruition. Phase 1 of the street lighting programme began in July is illuminating a promising career He said: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to get into so I 2014 running until the end of December. In that time: path for two young apprentices! think the apprenticeship will be really good for securing a job “We’ve already got two Thornaby-based companies providing 548 columns and 198 lanterns have been replaced as an electrician in the future. So far I have been working on manufacture and design services and now we’re offering in Roseworth ward emergency lighting and general repairs with the engineers. training and employment opportunities to young people like The second phase of the programme to install super-efficient 176 columns and 348 lanterns have been replaced It’s been really enjoyable. I live in Billingham and I am proud to Jacob and Joe. lighting across the Borough is well under way and engineers in Western Parishes work on such a big project here in the Borough.” now have some extra pairs of hands to help out. “I’m sure they will learn a lot during their time with us and Norton South has seen 111 columns and 595 Jacob Cartwright and Joe Walton are each completing an NVQ Thornaby resident Joe Walton also began his apprenticeship I wish them both every success!” lanterns replaced in September 2014. The 23-year-old previously worked in Electrotechnology at Stockton Riverside College and have The ‘Big Plans, Bright Future’ programme is split into Hartburn has had 170 columns and 338 as a sound and lighting engineer with local bands. Joe’s been employed by the Council as apprentices as part of their seven phases and has already started in Roseworth, Western lanterns replaced experience gave him a head start to develop his skills further electrical training. Parishes, Norton South, Hartburn and Stockton Town Eight columns and 834 lanterns have been and train as a qualified electrician. He decided to apply for the Centre wards. replaced in Stockton Town Centre Since starting a six month apprenticeship with the Technical apprenticeship after spotting the opportunity advertised online. Services team in September, the pair have been helping with The second phase is now under way in Mandale and Victoria That’s a total of 1,013 columns and 2,303 lanterns “It’s going really well so far,” he says. “A big part of the training lighting installations and electrical maintenance in Council ward and is due to begin in Village and Grangefield wards replaced so far – with the replacements generating is practical work so we’ve been learning on the job and getting buildings before starting work on the £14million street lighting before the end of July. an average energy saving of 62%! programme in January. stuck in. I’ve seen the new lighting in Stockton Town Centre For further details about the programme and to and that looks great so I’m looking forward to getting involved find out when it will be coming to your area, visit in the wider programme.” www.stockton.gov.uk/streetlighting PAGE 30 PAGE 31 ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING Templates of residents’ hands come together in The Tree of Hands sculpture Face of Billingham Raising standards in continues to change the private rented sector Stockton Council is The Council’s Head of Housing and from free advertising of their properties, Community Protection, Julie Nixon, access to training, help and advice from developing a range of said: “We have many good landlords in a dedicated housing professional and the Borough and we are keen to support free ‘good tenants’ checks. new measures aimed at them while also raising standards Meanwhile, tenants are being urged to where needed. The Stockton Rental driving up standards of perform their own checks on landlords Standard will help us to improve our before moving into a property and the privately rented homes links with all landlords and ensure Council is planning to introduce a free privately rented properties are of a in the Borough. helpline to make it easier for tenants to consistently high quality.” A key part of this is the introduction report poor housing conditions. Private landlords with properties to rent of the Stockton Rental Standard, a To find out more about the support are also being invited to sign up to the quick and easy guide outlining the available to private landlords or to join free Landlord Accreditation Scheme, legal requirements and best practices the Landlord Accreditation Scheme visit which recognises the positive steps good expected of private landlords by www.stockton.gov.uk/privatelandlords Stockton Council. landlords are taking. Members benefit

Kennedy Gardens – modern homes in the heart of Billingham Up your street in 2015 A £10m revamp of three landmark tower blocks Kennedy Gardens also has residential parking with electric car charging points, new street lighting and interactive feature Green waste collections start again You can purchase additional green waste bags from the Council’s in Billingham is now complete, providing modern Customer Service centres – reusable bags are available at £2 per lighting at the top of each building which can be programmed to in April and continue until September. homes right in the centre of town. a range of sequences, all complemented by an impressive new bag and a roll of 26 disposable sacks is available at £3 per roll. Kennedy Gardens has been given a completely new look by ‘Tree of Hands’ sculpture. Red Week collections start week commencing Monday Alternatively, have you considered composting your own green Tristar, part of the Thirteen Group, including structural repairs, Dave Pickard, lead executive for Tristar Homes, said: “Kennedy 6 April and end week commencing Monday 21 September. Blue waste? It provides you with free compost and reduces the new render, solar panels, insulation and new fire alarm systems. Gardens has been given a completely new lease of life with Week collections start week commencing Monday 13 April and amount of rubbish you put into your bin. For more information, In addition to work on the 225 popular existing homes, Tristar fantastic input from tenants to build a development the whole will end week commencing Monday 28 September. visit www.teesvalley.getcomposting.com Homes has also built 12 brand new apartments and three new town can be proud of.” community rooms. Look out for your green waste collection team (left to right) Christopher Connor, Adam Wesson and Kev Sturman WORK STARTS ON SITE AT SWAINBY ROAD Regeneration plans to transform to complete, with residents moving into Stockton’s Swainby Road area are new homes from this summer. gathering pace as construction Stockton Council is also pressing ahead gets under way. with a regeneration scheme in Stockton Easter Town Centre in partnership with Tees Stockton Council has signed a development collections Valley Housing (part of the Thirteen agreement with Keepmoat Homes, which Group) and Southdale Ltd. West End Please note that will build 174 new two and three-bedroom Gardens will feature two bedroom Getting work under way at Norton Park are (left during the Easter homes. Whilst the majority of new homes apartments, bungalows and two and to right) Richard Bass from Keepmoat Homes, period, waste and recycling will be for sale, 30 houses will be owned Jane Edmends from Stockton Council and three bedroom houses. The 117 homes collections will be carried out and managed by the Thirteen group and Mark Dutton from Thirteen will be available to local people with a as normal with our Care For will be available for rent. wide variety of options to best Your Area crews working on Good The new development will be called Norton suit people’s budget. Friday to ensure there is Park and in recent weeks Keepmoat Building is already underway at the no disruption. Homes and Stockton Council have been conveniently located Town Centre You should have received a booklet working with youngsters at North Shore site, which is bounded by Dovecot containing these details but to find Academy to come up with street names for Street, Hartington Road, St the estate, drawing inspiration from nature out more visit www.stockton. Bernard’s Road and Worthing Street. found in nearby Lustrum Beck. gov.uk/wasteandrecycling For more information on housing Alternatively, call 01642 391959 It is expected that the scheme, which regeneration across the Borough or email: careforyourarea@ has been supported by the Homes and visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ Communities Agency, will take five years stockton.gov.uk environmentandhousing North Shore pupils come up with street names for Norton Park

PAGE 32 PAGE 33 ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING STRONG COMMUNITIES Resurfacing work Stockton’s in SPOTLIGHT fine voice! is streets ahead! ON… Stockton’s choir scene is thriving. From Stockton Male Voice Choir to Stockton Town Choir and many more in between, there’s an abundance of opportunities for singers of all abilities. Stockton Male Voice Choir meets at 7.30pm on Monday Our regular “Spotlight On” feature evenings at the Grays Road Institute and has a varied highlights the work of some of the repertoire from opera and famous shows to Abba and The Beatles! Deputy Chairman Gordon Bean said: “Practices are voluntary, community and social relaxed and enjoyable with new members being helped by enterprise organisations carrying experienced singers if they wish or left to learn at their own pace. Singers don’t need to be able to read music, neither out highly commendable work do we hold auditions.” Anyone interested in joining should contact Gordon on 01642 761716. We know the upkeep of our works on longer stretches of highways “So far this year, we have visited all across the Borough. and footpaths. corners of the Borough, from Upsall Stockton Town Choir brings together singers of all ages roads and pavements is Healthwatch is the local consumer champion for health and and backgrounds at ARC each Wednesday at 6pm. Mike And it is on course to deliver 10km of Grove to Vulcan Way, Sidlaw Road to social care services. McGrother, of Wildcats of Kilkenny, leads the choir. He important to our residents. sparkling new road surfacing by the Castlelevington Lane and beyond. said: “Town Choir is one way of getting out the house That’s why we’re investing £9million end of this financial year. “This is one of the key work The role of Healthwatch is to ensure everyone has a voice in and forgetting your worries for a short time, without in our highways and footpaths programmes we have in place to repair the way these services are planned and provided locally. The Council’s Head of Technical the pressure to rehearse in the traditional sense of infrastructure over the next three years. and maintain our highways to Services, Richard McGuckin, said: This includes residential care homes, doctors, dentists, performances.” Alongside the responsive work we do “We know that good road surfaces are a standard that people expect.” hospitals and other services. Healthwatch is an independent to repair potholes and pavements, essential to highway safety. As these photographs of Piper Knowle organisation established to listen to what local people think Other Stockton choirs include Stockton Silver Singers, an we also have a planned highways “We plan our road maintenance Road in Hardwick show, the programme about the health or social care services they are using. informal group for the over 50s, male voice choir Infant maintenance programme. programme very carefully and prioritise is taking place on quite a scale. Hercules and mixed voice group Sydenham Singers. Healthwatch gathers the views of registered members and the areas most in need of resurfacing. Your Council – Ambitious, effective This programme involves the carrying the local community and this determines its work activities and proud to serve… out of resurfacing and structural and priorities. Healthwatch also takes an active role at local partnership boards, scrutiny committees and Clinical Going green together Commissioning Groups. Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees is currently working with A brand new forum where patients, carers and partner organisations to scrutinise people can share information discharge arrangements at North Tees Hospital. Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees wants to hear from people and ideas about environmental who have recent experience of leaving the hospital with reference to transport arrangements, follow up care and issues is being launched in social care packages. Stockton this summer. Healthwatch provides you with the opportunity to help shape how future services are planned and delivered. They want to The Environment Forum is open to community members hear your experiences, good and bad. across the Borough making it easier for everyone to take action on local environment issues such as renewable and For more information on the Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees low carbon energy, community food growing, parks, wildlife work programme, or on joining, visit and transport. www.healthwatchstocktonontees.co.uk Residents, community groups and organisations are invited Alternatively, contact Healthwatch Stockton-on-Tees by to a launch event taking place at Stockton Riverside College It’s easy to report damaged roads, footpaths or potholes. phone 01642 688 312, email: healthwatchstockton@pcp. from 4pm on Wednesday, June 10. Places are free but Fill in a simple form on the Council’s website – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline uk.net or by writing to: Healthwatch, Catalyst House, 27 limited so booking is advisable. or call the Council’s contact centre on 01642 391959. Yarm Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3NJ. For more information, or to book a place, contact Stephen Shaw on 01642 526446 or email: [email protected]

PAGE 34 PAGE 35 STRONG COMMUNITIES STRONG COMMUNITIES

@boltonbusiness: @positivelySOT Elizabeth Shearer says: Massive Huge supporter of my “Here are a few pics of Stephen Hornsey captured home town PROUD STOCKTONIAN artwork I did as part of my this picturesque snowy #bestplacetolive #supportlocal final project at college, scene at Norton Green #workingtogether – it’s called The Beauty of Stockton. The pictures portray Stockton’s You certainly won’t frown political, industrial and We’re sure you’ve heard by now that Channel 4’s “Benefits Street” If you were to walk into our town landscape beauty.” cameras have been filming in Stockton. We all know this series will A market full of history do little for the image of our fine Borough and its proud communities. This negativity is but a mystery Because if you open up your eyes That’s why we launched the Positively Stockton-on-Tees campaign in November – to give you a platform to share all that you love about You might get a surprise our Borough. And what a response we’ve had! New businesses are thriving ‘Reality TV’ can be conniving These are just some of the great submissions we’ve received so I write this with sincerity far but please keep them coming. If you have any stories, photos, As we appreciate our prosperity Graham Wright’s photo of thoughts or observations about what a great place our Borough is To enjoy the likes of Norton Green please share them with us! a beautifully atmospheric You’d have to be quite obscene sky over Stockton’s Infinity To get involved, or find out more, go to To consider it anything other than serene Bridge is shared with the www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk So if you happen upon a camera crew Positively Stockton-on- Do not sneer, do not boo Tees campaign. “Here’s a picture my boyfriend Because one thing we know is true Ben Adam took at Tees Barrage We are proud to live here We think Preston Park is great of a seal - love that we have such And this bad press will soon disappear. too. It always looks gorgeous amazing nature RIGHT on our Callum Parry shared his picture whether in Summer or Autumn! By a proud poet among the residents doorstep!” says Chantal Lauper taken at Preston Hall Museum: “It Photo by Denise Instone of Stockton-on-Tees who wishes to is a fantastic place to visit and learn remain anonymous A LOT about the history of the area. It’s great to visit in the summer and enjoy a stroll around the grounds.” Look up look up to Stockton Town where its people are both strong and proud Many a great Summer’s night I urge you all to look around An action packed Tees Barrage COMING SOON! sat in Stockton’s lovely Green my home and pride, dear by Hamed Jamshidian The Positively Stockton-on-Tees campaign is not just Dragon Yard with fantastic Stockton Town company, by Debbie Lake about words. It’s about actions and events too. Lyrics from a song Look Up, Look Check out the film of The Loudest Whisper event on the Up (Stockton Town) co-written www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk website. by Freddie Farkle, Dennis Bailey And there’s a lot more fun to look forward to – watch out and Joe Hammill for details of Gigglebox, which will observe local people’s Winnie Cammish reactions to Benefits Street when the series is aired! Cleasby took this Or, if you’re planning your own Positively Stockton-on- dramatic photo from Tees event and want to let people know about it, contact Bassleton Wood, us using the details on the site’s “Get Involved” page. Thornaby looking out across the River Tees A sunny, weekend walk in Preston Park Grounds captured by Amey-Rose McGrogan www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk /positivelystocktonontees

An initiative supported by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council /positivelySOT Positively Stockton-on-Tees PAGE 36 PAGE 37 STRONG COMMUNITIES STRONG COMMUNITIES

Mapping out their successes

A range of work aimed at tackling family poverty Working with an artist to visualise some of the ideas put into The locality forums have made encouraging The Eastern Locality Forum is working with parents to was showcased at the Stockton Local Strategic place, the forums produced eye catching and dramatic maps strides since May last year – here are some of the promote the importance of communication, interaction Partnership’s (LSP) annual event, held at Preston which they shared with each other at the event. highlights: and play in the first two years of a child’s life including Park Museum and Grounds. encouraging parents to use the free Bookstart scheme. They The event was also an opportunity for members of the In partnership with Tees Credit Union the Northern Locality are also developing some work to reduce the rate of teenage forums to shine a light on the work they have done to deliver The work has been carried out by the four locality forums that Forum has established a pilot scheme in Billingham primary pregnancy. improvements and tackle the challenges in health and well- feed into the LSP, each one representing the different areas of schools to encourage children to save and manage money being, economic regeneration, environment and housing, The Western Locality Forum has been promoting energy the Borough – Northern, Central, Western and Eastern. from an early age. The forum is also working with local community safety and arts and culture. community venues to help reduce fuel bills. They are working switching schemes to help people reduce their fuel bills, The forums are made up of representatives from the local supporting local people to access initiatives such as Warm Lesley King, Head of Policy, Improvement and Engagement, with employers to improve employment opportunities, community and the voluntary sector as well as the public Homes, Healthy People and helping residents tackle obesity said: “The locality forums have risen to the challenge of taking especially for young people. and private sectors. by choosing a healthy lifestyle. positive action and are working hard with partners in the Members of the Central Locality Forum have been supporting Since May last year, they have been focussing on ways to voluntary, community and social enterprise sector, the public the co-ordination of food banks – making sure those needing All of the Locality Forums are working to increase access to tackle family poverty in their areas with special attention given sector and the private sector on things that can make a real them can also get wider help and support in a bid to further financial advice and ways in which people can manage their to how to maximise family income and give every difference to individuals and whole communities.” reduce their chances of becoming a regular food bank user. money and access loans. Local forums are also approaching child the best start in life. business and community venues to encourage them to To find out more about the locality forums visit: They have also recruited a number of volunteers to promote Tees Credit Union’s services across the area. welcome breastfeeding in recognition of the significant health www.stockton.gov.uk/localityforums and developmental impact this can have on babies.

PAGE 38 PAGE 39 YOUR COUNCIL YOUR COUNCIL Customer Service Centres are Helping people through Are you now available at: welfare reforms being In April 2013 the Government Advice sessions are held in Stockton and implemented the biggest Thornaby libraries and a wide range of help is on offer, from assisting people change to the welfare system in with Discretionary Housing Payments decades. Since then, Stockton to ensuring residents are claiming their full benefit entitlements. served? Billingham Library and Customer Service Centre Council and its partners in the voluntary and community sector More than 40 per cent of enquiries Billingham Town Centre, Stockton-on-Tees TS23 2LN received by the Council’s Welfare Rights We recently opened the T: 01642 393939 E: [email protected] have been working together to Team are related to welfare reform. And Borough’s third Customer protect the most vulnerable and though households across the Borough to offer advice and support to are continuing to feel the impact, the Service Centre in Billingham Council continues to do all it can to those affected. help those hardest hit. Town Centre. The new facility Making a difference is a great addition to the Since April 2013, the Council has: successful centres we already have in Stockton and Thornaby. Awarded Supported Found Awarded residents in Our friendly staff are on hand £780,000 £2.25m £375,000 Stockton Central Library and Customer Service Centre in Discretionary for residents in through the Back on to offer local people in-depth Church Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1TU 273 T: 01642 393939 E: [email protected] Housing successful benefits additional benefit Track crisis support help and advice on a range of Payments tribunals entitlements scheme Council services including:

Council Tax enquiries Payments If you are struggling to cope financially or are starting to get into debt it is Applying for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support best to get help quickly. There are organisations across the Borough that Environmental enquiries (bin collections, bulky waste can help and they offer free, impartial advice. collections, van permits, litter and street cleaning and recycling) Concessionary travel – we offer an appointment system for new and replacement Blue Badges and bus passes Free School Meals and clothing grants Thornaby Library and Customer Service Centre HELP AND ADVICE IS AVAILABLE FROM: The Money Advice Service In addition to the above, Stockton Customer Services Centre Wrightson House, Pavilion Shopping Centre, also offers face to face advice on planning, licensing and Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees TS17 9EW Website: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk Trading Standards enquiries. T: 01642 393939 E: [email protected] Stockton Council Call: 0300 500 5000 Website: www.stockton.gov.uk/benefitchanges Call the Welfare Rights Service: 01642 526141 StepChange Debt Charity Call the Housing Options Service: 01642 528389 Website: www.stepchange.org Don’t forget, you can also Stockton District Advice and Information Service Call: 0800 138 1111 access a vast range of Council Call: 0844 4111 444 or 0300 3300 650 National Debtline services from the comfort of For appointments call: 01642 633877 Website: www.nationaldebtline.co.uk Do it Five Lamps Call: 0808 8084000 your own home. Simply log Website: www.fivelamps.org.uk Call: 01642 608316 on to www.stockton.gov.uk/ online! doitonline PAGE 40 PAGE 41 YOUR COUNCIL YOUR COUNCIL Challenging times continue Something BIG is Councillors met on 24 February tries wherever possible to identify 2015 to agree the budget for the new and innovative ways to deliver coming year and the Medium Term services rather than cutting services. The programme of investing to save happening in May! Financial Plan for the next four continues as we use capital reserves years. Once again the challenges to invest in schemes which will save of reduced government funding, annual revenue such as the street The Parliamentary General an increasing demand for services lighting scheme and the Spark of Do it now! Genius joint venture to care for some and delivering the savings already of our Looked After Children. However, Election and Local Council Applying to get on identified over the past five the challenges we face now come the Electoral Register Do it now! years have formed the basis of a on top of years of reducing costs Elections take place on and identifying savings is becoming reluctant 1.9 per cent increase in Applying to vote increasingly difficult. The Council has Council Tax for 2015/16. by post Do it now! already delivered £34million of savings Thursday 7 May 2015, over the past five years. 2010/11

Funding cuts REDUCTION IN GOVERNMENT FUNDING along with the Town/Parish Applying to vote Government funding to Stockton has Council Tax £120m by postal proxy Do it now! reduced every year since 2010/11. The average Council Tax paid per Five years ago the Government Council Elections. property in Stockton is £802 a year Applying to vote provided £120million for services in You must be registered to vote to have your say in these elections. Do it now! compared with the national average of by proxy the Borough, next year this will be £1,005. Of the properties in the Borough, It’s quick and easy to do. £68million, that’s a reduction of 59% in 90 per cent are in Bands A to D. The 1.9 If you are disabled and require assistance to register real terms over the past five years. And Just go online to www.gov.uk/registertovote or call the to vote, or you know somebody who is disabled per cent increase in Council Tax will the challenge doesn’t stop next year, Registration Helpline on 01642 526196 – you will need your and requires such assistance, please call the mean an increase of 32p per week for we are estimating further reductions National Insurance number. Registration Helpline on 01642 526196. Band A households rising to 48p per of £15million by 2018/19 which would 2011/12 week for Band D properties. We continue £96m If you won’t be able to go to a polling station on 7 May, you mean a total reduction of over 77 per to work hard to ensure the efficient and can still make your voice heard by applying to vote by post or cent in real terms since 2010/11. effective collection of Council Tax and appointing someone to vote on your behalf as your ‘proxy. Rising demands collection rates remain high at 97 per cent within year and 99 per cent over a At the same time demand for services five year period. continues to rise. The number of children looked after by the Council Big Plans has increased from 235 in 2009/10 2012/13 Despite these challenges we continue The RELP outlines the Council’s vision to 380. This vital service alone cost £90m to drive forward the ambitious for future development and land use £12.6million last year. The costs of Your views matter regeneration plans across the Borough, within the Borough, while the CIL providing direct Adult Social Care with investment in our town centres, meetings was held to discuss the Preliminary Draft Charging Schedule have also increased from £26.4million Here we bring you our regular support to major housing regeneration proposals in detail. At the time of going introduces the levy that the Council can in 2009/10 to £32.0million last year. update on the consultations schemes and to businesses to create to print, the extended consultation was charge on new developments dependent And it is inevitable that these costs being carried out by the Council. jobs. We are a growing Borough with 2013/14 drawing to a close ahead of a report on their size and type. will continue to rise as our population A number of consultations have taken big plans for a bright future. £88m being prepared for consideration by the Both consultations ended on March grows older. It is estimated that place during the early part of this year. Council’s Cabinet. 16. The RELP will need to undergo an there will be a 180 per cent One of them was the consultation examination in public to see if a planning increase in the number of people Thank you to everyone who took part. on proposed school admission inspector considers it is the right plan for over 85 years old in the Borough There were also consultations on 2014/15 arrangements for the Borough’s the Borough whilst the CIL will also need in the next 20 years. We have £80m the Regeneration and Environment community, voluntary controlled primary to undergo an examination in public to made a serious and sustained Local Plan (RELP) and the Community and secondary schools in 2016/17. see if a planning inspector considers it to commitment to protecting the Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Preliminary Draft The consultation was extended to be an appropriate basis for the collection vulnerable in the Borough and 2015/16 Charging Schedule. £68m allow as many people as possible to of the levy on new developments. we will always need to provide have their say and a series of public the very best of care. £63m 2016/17 Savings The Council continues to £58m 2017/18 adopt a planned approach WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA to delivering savings and £53m 2018/19 There will be no ward surgeries in April and May. Our regular “Ward surgeries in your area” pages will return later this year.

PAGE 42 PAGE 43 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON Davenport Diva - Ladies Only Cycle Ride Date Sunday 12 April Time 10.30am – 1.30pm Location Myton House Farm Pub, Ingleby Barwick Sustrans’ ladies only cycling group Cycle Sisters take a 23 mile WHAT’SA look at what’s going on across Stockton from March to May 2015. The events listed are subject toON change. We reserve the right to ride out to Low Dinsdale, Girsby, Hornby and Appleton Wiske This is just a taster so for more information about these events and alter or cancel any event. with a well-deserved refreshment stop at the Devenport Arms. for a full list visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events This ride is mainly on quiet country roads. Over 16s only. For more information contact The Hub on 01642 803441 or visit MARCH Poetry Reading Workshop www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com with Anna Woodford and Farmers’ Market Tommy Scott (Of Space) Date Saturday 28 March Ellen Phethean Date Saturday 25 April Time 9am – 2pm Date Wednesday 8 April Time 8pm Location Stockton High Street Time 5.30pm – 7pm Location The Georgian Theatre Location Norton Library A trusted favourite bringing you fresh produce, seasonal foods, Tommy Scott, the lead singer and frontman for platinum quality drinks and delightful goods from across the region. The perfect opportunity to build your confidence in reading selling indie-pop band Space returns to the Georgian for Great local food and drink, sourced from great local providers. poetry alongside some of the region’s best loved poets. another set full of classic hits and new solo material. The workshop is an opportunity to learn more about how to Be sure not to miss classic 90s hits ‘Female of The Species’, explore and read poems and is suitable both for readers new ‘Ballad of Tom Jones’ and many more! to poetry and poetry fans. Booking is essential, call 01642 528019 to secure a place For more information and ticket bookings visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk or call 01642 606525 Chic Vintique Market Date Saturday 11 April Time 10am – 4pm Location Stockton High Street Vintage and retro clothes, collectables, quality gifts and all things gorgeous are the name of the game at our Chic Vintique Market. Jurassic Adventures APRIL Date Friday 20 & Saturday 21 March Time Various times Easter Eggstravaganza Location Billingham Forum Theatre Date Thursday 2 April Don’t miss Jurassic Adventures, a brand new production set Time 3pm – 4pm on a magical island where anything might happen. A brave Location Egglescliffe Library group of adventurers encounter thrills, shocks, fun and of Hop over to Egglescliffe Library and enjoy our annual Easter course dinosaurs as they search for proof that the prehistoric Egg Decorating competition! Be whisked into a frenzy as you creatures still exist. try and beat your friends to become top of the pecking order! Tickets should be booked in advance, visit This competition is no yoke! www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk or call the box Suitable for children 4 to 10 years old, under 10s must be office on 01642 552663. accompanied by an adult. Spaces (and eggs) are limited so please book in early to avoid Green Room 3rd Birthday disappointment, call 01642 527958 to book a place. Bash - with The Lovely Eggs Date Saturday 21 March Time 8pm Location The Green Room Stockton Duathlon Festival The Green Room celebrates another successful year with Date Sunday 26 April its annual birthday bash, headlined this time by Brighton’s Time All day event oddball DIY punk duo The Lovely Eggs. Expect plenty of short, Location Stockton Town Centre and Riverside sharp hook laden punk numbers with a healthy dose Run-cycle-run. One of the UK’s biggest and best Duathlons of humour and free birthday cake! returns! The Stockton Duathlon festival is back and better For more information, ticket bookings and up to date than ever, offering three races suitable for elite athletes line up information visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk and absolute beginners. To book your place and for more or call 01642 606525. information, including handy hints and tips on training for the event, visit www.stockton.co.uk/duathlon

PAGE 44 PAGE 45 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON Ropner Park Spring Fair Ropner Park Date Sunday 26 April Time 12.30pm – 3pm Bowling Assocation Location Ropner Park, Stockton Date Monday 11 May Time 1pm This year’s Spring Fair theme is Heroes and Villains, so get Location Ropner Park, off Balmoral Terrace your fancy dress outfits ready and let your imagination run wild. Have you ever tried flat green bowling? Well now’s your The annual fair will have live music on the bandstand, craft chance. Ropner Park Bowling Association is holding a 10 stalls, games and amusements that are sure to get the whole week coaching course for a nominal charge of £15. Loan of family involved. The Ropner Park Café will also be open serving bowls and shoes is free and the fee includes special green a variety of refreshments. fees for 2015. For more information call Secretary, Mike Retro Market Ranson on 01642 656061 or coach, George Fleming, MAY Date Saturday 9 May on 01642 363805. Time 10am – 4pm Location Stockton High Street Experience a blast from the past with this retro themed Specialist The Spalding Suite Market for gifts, goodies, collectables and novelty items from the Date Tuesday 12 May 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. A nostalgic take on the recent past in all its Time 7pm stylishly kitsch glory! Location ARC, Stockton The Spalding Suite is a new physical theatre show inspired by the UK’s basketball subculture. Preston Park Pedlar Seen from a British perspective, the performances get to Guide Ride the heart and soul of the gravity defying game and delve into the hopes and dreams of those who play it. Date Saturday 9 May Time 11am – 1.30pm For full information, including bookings, visit Location The Hub, Stockton-on-Tees www.arconline.co.uk Join the Sustrans’ Pedal On group for a relaxed and gentle 12 mile ride to Preston Park and Ingleby Barwick. This ride Tees Regatta is mostly on cycle paths with some quiet roads. Date Saturday 16 May Time 11am – 4pm Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Location Stockton Town Centre - Riverside To book your place and for more information, including Come and watch this great spectacle along the River Tees. handy hints and tips on training for the event, visit www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com Tees Rowing Club organise this fantastic event with entries from North East clubs and all over the UK. The Worried Walrus For further details visit www.teesrowingclub.co.uk Date Saturday 9 May Creative Crafts Garden Show at Preston Park Time 2.30pm Location ARC, Stockton Date Wednesday 27 May Date Saturday 2 to Monday 4 May It is time for the Annual Animal Beauty Contest! Time 2.30pm – 3.30pm Time 10am - 5pm daily Location Yarm Library This year’s contestants include Terry the Tree Frog, Randy the Location Preston Park Museum & Grounds Come and get creative with your family as Yarm Library hosts Panda, Mary-Rose the beautiful flamingo and a brand-new, first- a free craft event suitable for children over 4 years old. A fantastic Garden Show with family entertainment that offers time competitor – Wendy the Walrus! something for everyone. Let your imagination run wild and design some fun and Join Wendy on her magical journey to the bottom of the ocean exciting pieces of art to take home. The Garden Show features garden nurseries and sundries, where she makes some unlikely new friends who help her to re- a specialist Food and Craft Hall and unusual entertainment think what real beauty is. For all big kids over three who love an Booking is required. For more information please contact including pig racing, international snail racing and a dog show. even bigger adventure! Yarm Library on 01642 528152. For further details visit www.garden-festivals.com Tickets cost £6, family (four people) £20. For more information There’s lots more going on at your local arts and visit www.arconline.co.uk or call 01642 525199. entertainment venues – simply visit their websites Free Comic Book Day or call: Date Saturday 2 May ARC visit www.arconline.co.uk tel (01642) 525199 Time 10am – 4pm Billingham Forum visit Location All libraries across the Borough www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk Are you ready to delve into the world of super heroes, magic tel (01642) 552663 and mystery, action and adventure? Celebrate and discover the amazing world of comic books on Georgian Theatre visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk our Free Comic Book Day! Visitors to the libraries can collect tel (01642) 674115 their free comic book and get their collection started. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/stocktoncouncil The comic books available are suitable for children and young Follow us on Twitter @stocktoncouncil people of all ages, limited stock available. www.stockton.gov.uk/events

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Are you eligible? eria New crit has been added

Free Childcare for 2 year olds Your child may be entitled to a free childcare place for 15 hours a week during school term time from September 2013. Don’t let your child miss out on the best start in life, give them the opportunity to make new friends, learn through play and have lots of fun!

For more information, contact: The Stockton-on-Tees Families Information Service Tel: 01642 527225 Email: [email protected] website: www.stockton.gov.uk/freechildcare

Children and Young People Big plans for the young people of our Borough