Winter 2020
www.durham.gov.uk
Stay well this winter
Investing in frontline services Meet our new neighbourhood wardens and Find and Fix Team
Durham History Centre Vision for a vibrant and interactive local history hub becomes a reality Welcome to the winter edition of Durham County News
2020 really has been a year like no other. While we look to the future with hope that we may be able to see a return to normality next year, we must keep in mind that for the time being the virus is still with us. It is essential, therefore, that we take extra care of ourselves, our friends, family and neighbours over Councillor Katie Corrigan, Chairman of the Council the winter months. Public health advice regarding social distancing, hand washing and local and national restrictions remain as important as ever, but we also need to make an extra effort to look after our wellbeing. In this edition we have some great suggestions for ways to keep fit and healthy, including some inspiration for winter walking and cycle routes. This year has been a particularly challenging time for businesses, but we continue to do all we can to support our local shops and services. In this edition, you can find out how we are supporting local traders with our first virtual food and drink festival as well as the investment we are making in order to regenerate our towns and villages – this edition focuses on improvement works in Seaham. I know many people may choose to do their Christmas shopping on the internet this year – remember that many of our favourite local businesses also have online shops and delivery services and it is essential we support them during these difficult times. This winter will certainly be very different, but I would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Cllr Katie Corrigan
Inside... Page 23 Coronavirus Pages 4-7 advice Pages 16-19 News Festive opening, Pages 12-13 finances, Durham History winter travel Centre and health
Page 14 Pages 28-29 Pages 8-9 Area Action Green living Economy and Partnerships jobs Pages 26-27 Pages 20-21 Focus on Pages 10-11 Looking after Seaham Investment your wellbeing in frontline services Page 15 Countdown to Pages 30-31 Lumiere This is Durham
Look out for extra content… You can now view extra content If you live in the Durham County Council area wherever you see this icon by going to www.durham.gov.uk/dcn and haven’t received a copy of Durham County News at your home address, please contact us. Durham County News is written and designed by Durham County Council, printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd and distributed by To contact the editorial team, call 03000 268 059 Smart Distribution Services Ltd and Royal Mail. It costs 16p a copy. or email [email protected] When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it. 2 Virtual food festival
Virtual food fest A tempting recipe of top tips from celebrity chefs and delicious local produce is on offer at our first virtual food and drink festival.
The coronavirus pandemic meant the cancellation of both Bishop Auckland and Seaham food festivals this Celebrity year but we are continuing to support local traders by hosting Durham Festival of Food and Drink. Chefs Running until Christmas Eve, the event is a celebration Artisan Food of the many food producers and drinks companies that and Drink would normally exhibit at our two annual festivals including local ‘Taste Durham’ favourites. Many of these companies have shown tremendous resilience by continuing to trade when events have been cancelled across the country due to coronavirus. Traders have had to reimagine their businesses and evolve in order to survive. This has not only safeguarded their own business but also contributed to the local economy too. The virtual festival is our way of showing our support. And with a wealth of high- quality products on offer, it is no wonder celebrity chefs, Great British Bake Off stars Jane Beedle and Karen Wright are getting involved too, sharing recipes and helpful tips to try at home.
Jane Beedle.
Find out more at www.durhamfestivaloffoodanddrink.co.uk Like or follow us on: @durhamfestivaloffoodanddrink @DurhamFoFandD @durhamfestivaloffoodandrink
3 Contact us: News
Visit our website to use online services 24 hours a day 7 days a week www.durham.gov.uk/ doitonline Plan is adopted
If you need to phone us, call A future vision for County Durham, which aims to create thousands of jobs and new homes and strengthen the county's Customer Services economy, is now adopted. 03000 26 0000 Our full council has agreed the adoption of the County Durham Plan. It aims 8.30am-5pm (Monday-Thursday) to ensure that the county is a successful place to live, work, invest and visit by delivering: 8.30am-4.30pm (Friday) ✔ more and better jobs Out of hours emergency service available. ✔ high quality homes that meet the needs of all residents ✔ the necessary supporting infrastructure, including transport, health and For social care and independent education needs. living enquiries or adult and The proposals would be realised over the next 15 years, helping the county's children’s welfare issues: economy get back on track and supporting its recovery from the impact of the Social Care Direct/Children’s coronavirus pandemic. First Contact Service The plan also contains details of how we are tackling climate change. 03000 26 79 79 Thousands of new jobs would be facilitated across the county, including key economic sites at Seaham, Durham and Newton Aycliffe. The plan also includes provision for almost 25,000 new homes across the @DurhamCouncil county, including designated allocation for affordable and older people's /durhamcouncil housing, and more than 300 hectares of new land being allocated specifically for business and industry development. linkedin.com/company/ durham-county-council Proposals for two relief roads on the outskirts of Durham City and a third at Barnard Castle have been removed. /DurhamCouncil The adoption of the plan is currently subject to a six-week period in which /durham_county_council interested parties can seek a judicial review. View the plan at www.durham.gov.uk/cdp Please ask us if you would like this document summarised in another language or format. Braille Audio Large print [email protected] 03000 268 059 4 News
New health service launched A new service to protect the Children get back to nature health and wellbeing of children aged 0 to 25 years and their Pupils at a County Durham school are enjoying new families has launched in County outdoor learning areas thanks to a North East developer. Durham. Durham Villages Regeneration Company (DVRC), a partnership between the council and Keepmoat Homes, normally builds houses. The Growing Healthy team includes However, staff recently took a break to construct a different type of family health visitors, family health home – a composting patch and bug hotel at Collierley Nursery and specialist public health nurses, emotional Primary School in Dipton. resilience nurses and support staff. They will meet with families and young people The constructions will complement the school’s outdoor play area, in family homes and communities, which was also donated by DVRC as part of its community engagement including early years settings, schools programme. Pupils have previously visited Keepmoat Homes and colleges. development, Coppice Heights, in the village and designed safety posters which were displayed on site. The service is provided by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust in conjunction with the council. As well as enhanced support for children Apply for a and families who have additional and school place complex needs, it will provide support for young people with a special educational Will your child turn need (SEND) and/or disability and those five on or between who are care leavers up to the age of 25. 1 September 2021 For many children, young people and and 31 August 2022? families, the health visiting and school If so, you will need to complete an application form telling us which nursing staff and their teams who have infant or primary school you would like them to attend. provided the Healthy Child Programme service to them over the past few years This year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, we are asking people to will remain the same. apply online or to download a form at www.durham.gov.uk/ schooladmissions, wherever possible as the team is working Every school and GP practice will remotely. continue to have a linked specialist public health nurse to ensure communication Visitors to the webpage will also find a guide containing information and referrals into the service are easy and on completing the application. Anyone who is unable to apply online accessible. or download a form, can request a paper copy by calling 03000 265 896. Service users can request advice and support by calling 03000 263 538. Applications close at midnight on 15 January 2021. 5 News
Volunteer database People looking to volunteer or find volunteers in County Durham can browse the latest opportunities via a new website. Festival Walk transformation
Work has begun to regenerate Spennymoor’s outdated Festival Walk shopping precinct. £600,000 of council investment will lead to the creation of a new, free to use, car park on the former Kwik Save site, encouraging more people to visit and shop in the town. A large part of the existing site will be demolished to create a new larger ALDI store, replacing the town’s current branch, which the supermarket has said it has outgrown. The current store will be re-let. Developers Hellens Group will refurbish the remaining units to The County Durham Volunteering Platform provide a more up to date retail space. It is hoped this will help has been developed by Durham Community attract new businesses to the town and offer more choice to Action, with funding from County Durham shoppers. Community Foundation and support from the council. Improvements will also be made to the town’s Market Place and it is hoped that the new look Festival Walk will be ready to Volunteering can be a great way to make a real welcome shoppers, businesses and visitors by Autumn 2021. difference in your community, build up confidence, gain new skills, increase your employment prospects or explore new career paths. Visit www.countydurhamvolunteering.org.uk to view current opportunities, find out more about volunteering in the county or upload a volunteering vacancy. For further information, including one-to-one advice for individuals or organisations, email [email protected] or call 01388 742 040.
Coronavirus ‑ advice and support Coronavirus is a rapidly evolving situation – keep up-to-date with developments by reading the latest Government guidance at www.gov.uk/coronavirus Find NHS information at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 You can also find information about the impact on council services, along with the current restrictions and support for residents and businesses in the county, on our website at www.durham.gov.uk/coronavirus
6 News Tackling fraud We are doing our bit to tackle fraud by taking part in a national scheme to protect public money. Every two years, we are asked by residents, council tax, council tax the Cabinet office to share personal reduction, business rates, Covid-19 information relating to residents, business grants and the electoral employees and councillors as part register. of the National Fraud Initiative We also carry out our own cross (NFI). system data matching exercises to The data is then checked against identify potential fraud and error. that held by other public We ensure that in all sharing New Elvet bodies, such as other or matching of data we councils and the comply with the Data on schedule NHS. This is so that Protection Act 2018 and Work on the refurbishment of any evidence of a General Data Protection mistake or potential Regulations. New Elvet Bridge is progressing fraud can be well. For general questions investigated. about how we share The first couple of weeks on site saw In 2018/19 the NFI personal information, the removal of the road surface and identified over £244 contact paving from the bridge as well as the million of fraud and errors across [email protected] demolition of internal concrete the UK. or 03000 267 803. structures. A jacking system has since The information we share relates To find out more about the NFI, been installed on top of the bridge to to a range of issues, including see https://www.gov.uk/ lift the central section of the deck, housing waiting lists, housing guidance/taking-part-in-national- allowing us to continue the concrete benefits, blue badges, fraud-initiative repairs. concessionary travel passes, and www.durham.gov.uk/ Works are expected to be complete creditor payments, taxi licenses, nationalfraudinitiative by autumn 2021. private supported care home Traffic travelling through the city is coping well and people are following the appropriate diversions. Traffic cameras have been installed across Broadband funding the city to help people plan their for rural areas journeys. For more information, visit More funding has been made available to help rural residents www.durham.gov.uk/newelvet and businesses access a better broadband service. We are adding £500,000 to top up a Government funding scheme, to help connect properties in some of the hardest to reach areas of the county. The extra cash doubles the amount currently available under the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme to a maximum of £3,000 for residential premises and up to £7,000 for small and medium enterprises. The vouchers must be used as part of a group project of two or more properties in the same community and funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis until the end of March 2021. You can check your eligibility and choose a supplier at https://gigabitvoucher.culture.gov.uk/ Residents can also contact Digital Durham with any questions about the scheme on 03000 261 160, or email [email protected] 7 Economy and jobs Creating and safeguarding jobs in 2020 and beyond The pandemic is undoubtedly having a significant impact on the economy across the country. In the face of these challenging times, our long-term commitment to supporting businesses, attracting investment and creating and maintaining jobs has never been more vital.
We work in partnership with residents and businesses through projects that aim to help people into employment and support those already in work to retain their jobs and develop their skills. We also provide assistance and grants to enable businesses in the county to expand and work with organisations in the public and private sector to encourage new companies to locate in the county.
First steps on the career ladder A young man from Chester-le-Street has gained confidence and skills after securing a new job with support from DurhamWorks. The programme, which is delivered by the council and partners, has helped more than 4,000 unemployed young people aged 16 to 24 access employment, training and education opportunities. Anthony Beach is one of 470 young people that DurhamWorks has helped into employment over the past year by providing salary grants to local employers. Grants of up to £2,500 are available to help businesses and organisations expand their workforce and provide jobs for DurhamWorks young people from the county. Anthony, now 25, secured a job as a business administration assistant at Gateway Wheelers in Hetton-le-Hole thanks to the grant scheme. Manager Sarah Young said: We have seen Anthony become a lot more confident. It’s amazing the knowledge he now holds. To find out more, call 03000 262 930, email [email protected] or visit www.durhamworks.info/employers
Grants available for enterprising projects An initiative that aims to increase funding that has proven invaluable during employment opportunities for people in the coronavirus pandemic. County Durham has been continuing to Projects to secure grants include North make a positive difference during the Durham Assist, which received £99,622, to pandemic. support unemployed people to find jobs, and The Community Led Local Development Finchale Business Boost, which secured (CLLD) programme is delivered by the £764,043 to help them offer tailored council, with support from the European guidance and training for small and medium Social Investment Fund. Grants are available enterprises. for community-driven projects that help create jobs, boost employability and Visit www.durham.gov.uk/CLLD to find out promote social regeneration and inclusion – more. 8 Supporting businesses; safeguarding jobs The coronavirus pandemic continues to have a profound impact on the business community. In March, when the first national restrictions were The North East Technology Park (NETPark) is a vibrant community of world-class announced, the council acted science, engineering and technology companies based in Sedgefield. quickly to help businesses safeguard their future and the Investing in our future livelihoods of their employees, Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the council and its partners are forging and we continue to do all we ahead with ambitious plans to create 30,000 jobs in County Durham over the next can to support them. 15 years. To date, 8,862 County Durham It has been a busy year, with major employment sites across the county taking shape companies have received - from Jade Business Park near Seaham welcoming its first tenant, to the Business Support Grants of completion of the £5.5 million infrastructure works at junction 61 of the A1, which either £10,000 or £25,000 helped paved the way for the Integra 61 development at Bowburn. In September, totalling £99 million, with our Amazon opened a new fulfilment centre at the 205-acre site, one of the largest in the finance team contacting all UK, bringing more than 1,000 permanent jobs to the area. Citrus Durham, which is eligible companies in the developing Integra 61, is currently delivering a Costa Coffee drive-thru facility which county to ensure they were is set to open by Christmas and there continues to be a strong interest in the aware of the national scheme remaining industrial and roadside units, as well as residential properties being and how to apply. delivered by Persimmon Homes. When complete, the entire scheme will generate A further £5 million was approximately 4,000 jobs. awarded to an additional Construction work is also 701 businesses through the underway at Forrest Park Local Discretionary Grants in Newton Aycliffe. The first Scheme. plot of land at the £140 In addition to this, more million industrial park is than £50 million in retail being developed by relief has been provided and Euro Garages into a petrol thousands of retail businesses filling station, convenience have had their business rate store and a KFC drive-thru Forrest Park in Newton Aycliffe. bills for 2020/21 cleared. restaurant. A joint venture by the council and the Forrest family, with support from Richardson Barberry, the Business Durham has also park is expected to create more than 3,000 jobs and boost County Durham’s been working hard to make economy by almost half a billion pounds over the next ten years. businesses and sole traders aware of the local and Over at NETPark near Sedgefield, occupancy rates have increased this year. The national support on offer. internationally renowned science park Its new Covid-19 Business has demonstrated its reputation for Support Brochure sets out innovation and collaboration yet the grants and practical again in 2020, with businesses at the assistance available in a clear site helping to develop PPE, sanitiser and accessible format. and vaccines to combat coronavirus. The next and third phase in the To read it online, visit expansion of NETPark is www.businessdurham.co.uk/ Lab technicians at Northumbria Pharma, a pharmaceutical expected to create up to covidbusinesssupport company based in the Discovery 1 building at NETPark. 1,400 jobs. 9 Investment
Investing in frontline services At the beginning of the year, we agreed to invest an additional £31 million over the next Jill Greenfield, who two years in a wide range of frontline previously worked with services, from filling potholes and sprucing adults with autism, is one of the new recruits. up local communities to deploying more neighbourhood wardens to provide greater I was born and bred in Peterlee in the east side of reassurance to residents. County Durham. The Despite the challenges and shifting priorities brought by community I’m from is lovely and friendly, and the pandemic, this work has continued. These essential helpful. County Durham is services are incredibly important to the everyday lives of an amazing place to live residents so it is important that we do all we can to and I want to help to give something back to that support and enhance them. community and make it a better place to live. I’m looking Here we look at what we have done so far. forward to helping County Durham remain a clean, green and safe place to live. New neighbourhood wardens Ben Storey, is enjoying An investment of £500,000 has enabled us to employ putting his neighbourhood 11 new neighbourhood wardens to tackle enviro-crime warden training into and anti-social behaviour. practice, dealing with issues such as untidy yards The reinforcement of the Neighbourhood Warden team and gardens, fly-tipping, is part of our efforts to build on our previous successes littering and stray animals. in addressing issues such as fly-tipping. I understand how The employment of 11 people to the roles represents important these problems are the council’s biggest ever recruitment drive for wardens. to people and I can’t wait to get out there and be able to Neighbourhood wardens work to improve the quality tackle them. of life for residents by reducing levels of anti-social behaviour and fear of crime. They carry out regular patrols across the county and have continued to do so throughout the coronavirus pandemic. New neighbourhood Wardens have the power to issue fixed penalty notices warden Sameer Jassat, for environmental crimes such as littering, fly-tipping, a former primary school abandoned vehicles, graffiti and allowing a dog to foul PE Teacher, is looking or stray. forward to working in the community. The new wardens, who have undertaken extensive What I’m most looking training, will work across County Durham, with four of forward to is working with them focussing solely on fly-tipping. the members of the public.
To report any issues and request assistance from the wardens, call 03000 260 000. Find out more by visiting A short film on the new wardens can be www.durham.gov.uk/neighbourhoodwardens viewed at https://youtu.be/s62m350P-W4 10 Find and Fix
We have invested £1 million in a new Find and Fix initiative to tackle a Lee Bankhead from Chester-le-Street, wide variety of environmental issues throughout the county. a former council depot attendant, is In addition to the council’s normal grounds maintenance and street one of the new Find and Fix crew cleaning work, this project aims to fix cleanliness concerns spotted by leaders. the teams or raised by communities as soon as possible. Working on Find and Fix so far has This includes projects which are too intensive for regular maintenance been really rewarding. Being able to see crews, and those which will bring a wider community benefit, but which such a difference in local areas gives cannot be undertaken within existing workloads. some real job satisfaction. We have had some fantastic feedback from local Across the county, four teams of three operatives are now being tasked communities and residents, who have with tackling projects which will help improve the quality of life for been really happy with the work in their residents. neighbourhoods, I’m really looking forward to the new challenges that this Look out for the teams in your area. job will bring.
What will they do? The work undertaken will differ according to each individual area’s needs, but in general, activities will include:
✔ cleaning road channels, gullies and weeding ✔ repairing and/or painting items such as benches, ✔ de-greasing of pavements and chewing gum removal seating, columns, railings and bollards ✔ removal of graffiti ✔ cleaning street and traffic signs ✔ repairing boundary walls and sculptures ✔ educating businesses on how to manage waste ✔ replacing shrub beds responsibly ✔ clearing litter ✔ general tidying ✔ manual sweeping of areas where machinery cannot reach
For more about the Find and Fix team, or to find out how to contact them, to see if they could tackle an issue in the area where you live, visit www.durham.gov.uk/findandfix
11 Heritage
Durham History Centre vision to become a reality
Plans have now been approved to turn the State of the art facilities Grade II listed Mount Oswald Manor House The centre will feature state of the art search rooms, into a vibrant and interactive local history including innovative digital facilities, a dedicated hub. The centre will bring together archive, learning space and exhibition and interpretation spaces. It will also host themed activities and events, as well as a heritage and registration services at a countywide outreach programme for children, schools central location near Durham City. and communities.
Uniting our heritage Aimed at telling the story of County Durham’s past through historic records, photographs and objects, Durham History Centre will provide a secure future for more than five miles of county archives, charting almost 900 years of history, which are currently located in County Hall. It will also provide a home for historic registration records, environmental and archaeological records, and local studies collections. Mount Oswald late 1860s. Image courtesy of Anthony Oswald Noel Wilkinson.
The Mount Oswald Manor House was built around A new home for the DLI Collection 1830. It is now a Grade II listed building. The land around was used as a golf course in recent years – For the first time since 1998, all items from the Durham with the Manor House acting as the club house, bar, Light Infantry (DLI) collection, currently housed at restaurant, changing rooms and storage. Sevenhills in Spennymoor, and the DLI archives, which are cared for by Durham County Ownership of the manor house and surrounding land was transferred by The Banks Group, to the council Record Office, will be brought for a nominal fee to secure its future use and benefit together under one roof. for the people of County Durham.
12 Registration services Durham Register Office will also be relocated to the Grade II listed building, where it will offer enhanced facilities for weddings and civil ceremonies which make the most of the historic setting and the surroundings of the manor house. As the new head office of the county’s registration service, it will provide facilities for registering life events, such as a birth or death. Replacement certificates from 1837 to date will be available to purchase in person, online or by telephone.
Inspiring and engaging Funding from the Wolfson Foundation will support the creation of an interactive exhibition space within the centre, where visitors will be able to discover the county’s rich history through nationally and internationally significant collections. A programme of inspiring and engaging exhibitions will help tell the stories of working people and A place to meet everyday families in County Durham. A café within the new centre will provide a place for visitors to socialise with family and friends. The exhibition is being planned using feedback from local people. Public consultation has already shown that Meanwhile, the grounds of Mount Oswald Manor House people want to see local, family and industrial history will be re-landscaped and brought back into public use. showcased at the centre. In response, we are developing Even if people don’t want to visit the history centre they an exhibition space based on the theme of Record of a will be welcome to relax in the grounds. Lifetime, which will cover topics including: » How the county has changed Getting there » Community spirit Mount Oswald is located a short distance from » How the county’s residents have earned a living Durham city centre and has excellent transport links. » County Durham’s relationship with the rest of the world It lies immediately opposite the Howlands park and » A fresh perspective on the county’s achievements ride and there are two bus stops within 400 metres and 150 metres of the entrance. The project has secured a development The site will have its own car park, including phase grant from the National Lottery accessible parking for disabled visitors, and parent Heritage Fund to develop an exciting and child spaces. Additional overflow parking will and engaging activity and events programme. cater for peak demand. The money will also support plans for innovative digital engagement and digital exhibition elements, ahead of a delivery phase application next year. Find out more The project has also received a grant of £1.46 million It is hoped work will begin on site in the new year from ERDF for low carbon measures at Mount Oswald. with a view to opening to the public in 2023. To find out more about Durham History Centre and to keep up to date with the latest news, visit www.durham.gov.uk/historycentre Entry to the history centre and its exhibitions will be free. 13 Area Action Partnerships Better for Everyone Our work has always been guided by the views of the public – and our Area Action Partnerships (AAPs) play a key role in gathering residents’ feedback.
Although the pandemic has prevented us holding meetings in the traditional way, we have continued to catch up with residents via online meetings. And over the past few weeks, we have been holding special sessions where participants have been given the chance to have their say on key issues and find out about the council’s work during the past year.
The vision County Durham Those who took part in the online events heard an update Vision 2035 on the council’s work and how it fits with the new vision for the county. Better for everyone Developed by the council and the County Durham Partnership following major consultation last year, the vision sets the tone for the development and growth of County Durham over the next 15 years. Its key priorities are the creation of more and better jobs, connected communities and helping people to live long and independent lives.
Your feedback There was also the opportunity to influence future projects and activities, including £20 million of work to make towns and villages around the county more vibrant – one of the key priorities of the vision. An update on the coronavirus pandemic also included information about our new community Covid-19 champions scheme. The scheme will be a chance for residents to continue to play their part in helping to reduce the spread of the virus in their local communities. To find out more about COVID-19 Community Champions, visit www.durham.gov.uk/covidcommunitychampion
Thank you The sessions also recognised the ongoing and outstanding community response to the pandemic. Throughout the county, community groups, voluntary organisations and individuals have been working hard to support their neighbours. From popping to the shops for a friend or delivering food to vulnerable people, to producing PPE for key workers, your efforts have played a vital role in For further information keeping the county up and running. about your local AAP, Since the pandemic began, our AAPs have supported these efforts by and how to get involved providing more £1.1 million to almost 300 community groups in their work, visit and organisations working with the county’s most vulnerable residents. www.durham.gov.uk/aaps During the online meetings, participants were encouraged to share their thanks for those who have played their part over the past year. 14 Lumiere Lighting up 2021
Many festivals have had to be cancelled, scaled back or moved online this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, but with Lumiere set to transform Durham City once again next year, we are hoping there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Lumiere’s economic impact has residents of HMP Low Newton and grown year-on-year, bringing Neon Workshops, was installed at Durham’s free light festival has visitors into the city and boosting Clayport Library for Lumiere 2019. brought more than one million local businesses, as well as shining a It has now become the fourth visitors to the area since 2009 – light on Durham to the world. permanent installation in the city, and now dates have been announced Thousands of local people and thanks to support from the Banks for next year. Lumiere 2021 is schoolchildren have benefitted from Community Fund. Completing the planned over four nights from involvement in Lumiere’s learning line-up are Heron, by Jon Voss, Thursday 18 to Sunday 21 November. and participation programmes and which has just been re-installed near Following last year’s special its volunteering opportunities over Freemans Reach; the glowing anniversary festival, which celebrated the past 10 years, developing their Lightbench at Freeman’s Reach; and 10 years of Lumiere, arts charity skills and having a great time in the Helvetictoc, a quirky timekeeping Artichoke is planning a brand new, process. device, projected onto the side of spectacular programme that can be Clayport Library. safely enjoyed within COVID With all the spectacular sights of the guidelines. artworks themselves, it is easy to We’re looking ahead to what we forget that it is the people that make hope will be brighter times”, said Helen Lumiere happen: artists, technicians, Marriage, director of Artichoke. producers and volunteers as well as “There’s no denying the impact that you, the audience. In celebration of COVID-19 has had and continues to everyone who contributes to have in the North East and across the While the 2021 programme is still Lumiere, photographer Matthew UK. We need something to look forward under wraps, Lumiere is a constant Andrews has created a special to and we know that everyone is presence in the city, with permanent online exhibition of behind-the- missing events like Lumiere. Events that light installations bringing a sparkle scenes photography from past bring joy and delight to young and old to Durham’s dark nights all year Lumiere festivals. You can find the alike. Lumiere 2021 will be as magical around. Neon work The Next Page, link to Matthew’s exhibition at and uplifting as ever. created by Hannah Jane Walker, www.lumiere-festival.com
For all the latest news and updates on Lumiere 2021, sign up to the Lumiere e-newsletter and follow @artichoketrust on social media. lumiere-festival.com | @artichoketrust | #LumiereDurham
15 Festive opening
Council services over the Christmas period
Customer Access Points Christmas and New Year Our Customer Access Points are currently closed due to bin collections the pandemic and will remain closed until further Bins will be emptied as normal up to and including notice. Our customer contact centre is responding to Thursday 24 December. Over Christmas and New Year enquiries online and over the telephone. However, it the following changes will apply: will close at 12.45pm on Thursday 24 December and reopen at 8.30am on Monday 4 January. Normal Revised collection days collection You can still contact us in an emergency. day Christmas New Year As normal As normal In an emergency Tuesday Our out of hours number is 03000 26 0000. 22 December 29 December As normal As normal Wednesday Payments line 23 December 30 December Make a debit/credit card payment 24/7 on As normal As normal 0300 456 2771. Thursday 24 December 31 December Monday Monday Friday Libraries and leisure centres 28 December 4 January 2021 In line with national coronavirus restrictions, our libraries and leisure centres are closed at present. Normal collections will resume from Tuesday 5 January. They are due to reopen on Wednesday 2 December You can also find collection details online by entering but please check opening times before visiting. your house number and postcode into the ‘My Durham’ section at www.durham.gov.uk/mydurham One Point family centres Our One Point family centres are currently closed due Real Christmas tree collections to Coronavirus. Our staff however are still available please call us on 03000 261 111 if you need advice or If you would like your real Christmas tree support, or visit durham.gov.uk/onepoint for more collected free of charge after Christmas, either book online information. at www.durham.gov.uk or call 03000 26 0000 between Monday 14 December and Thursday 7 January, for a collection in the New Year (please note our Register offices offices are closed between 24 December and 4 January). Will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Alternatively, take your real Christmas tree to a Year’s Day as well as on the Bank Holiday Monday 28 household waste recycling centre (all centres are closed December. Bishop Auckland and Durham register Christmas Day and New Year’s Day). offices will be open between these dates for Visit www.durham.gov.uk/hwrc for locations and appointments only. Phone 03000 26 6000. opening hours.
Day centres for adults Bulky waste collections Will be closed during the Bank Holidays over Christmas and the New Year. There will be no large waste (bulky) collections between Thursday 24 December and Monday 4 January.
Please note that all opening times are subject to change due to the coronavirus pandemic.
16 Festive Festive money matters finances
Christmas can often put a strain on our finances but, for many people, the impact of coronavirus is set to make festive budgeting even harder this year. Hopefully, our tips for savvy saving and spending will help you manage your money better into the New Year.
Do not use payday and doorstep lenders Plan your Avoid expensive loans - if you do need to spending borrow money, credit unions offer a much more affordable option than - make a list private lenders or weekly payment stores, with no hidden charges or fees. Plan ahead of friends and family you NEFirst Credit Union offers easy to use savings want to buy for, allocating accounts. You can pay cash or cheques in at any a set amount for each NEFirst office; by PayPoint at shops and garages; by person. standing order from your bank; or through payroll deductions with some employers. Don’t forget to budget for the money you will likely Members receive a share of the annual profits, known as a dividend, spend on food and drink which is paid annually based on each member’s average level of too. savings. Buying presents Contact the NE First Credit Union on 0330 055 3666 throughout the year and or visit www.nefirstcu.co.uk to find out more. putting them away until Christmas can alsospread help as it means you can the cost. Make your money work for you Make some extra space and earn some extra cash by selling unused items online before Christmas. If you put a regular amount aside each week it will soon mount up. This could be by making a regular bank transfer into a savings account or just saving your spare coins.
17 Winter travel
Winter is coming
Be prepared The winter weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared when out and about during the colder months. Follow our Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates on road conditions and gritting routes and stay one step ahead of the weather. Snow and ice Find out about our work to keep the county moving during When snow falls, we work to clear main the winter at www.durham.gov.uk/winterinfo roads first to keep public transport up and Check the weather before setting off, particularly if you are running. This includes pre-salting about heading on a long journey. The Met Office issues weather 1,060 miles of road. View our gritting routes at warnings online at www.durham.gov.uk/weatherwarnings www.durham.gov.uk/gritting
Gritting Potholes Keeping the county moving is a priority. It is essential The winter weather is often the root that we keep our roads and pavements clear during any cause of potholes on our roads. To report a spells of bad weather. That is why we start each winter with pothole, visit www.durham.gov.uk/potholes a stockpile of 42,000 tonnes of salt. We also have a fleet of 37 or call 03000 26 0000. power gritters and 33 trailer gritters for spreading salt on roads, along with 11 footpath gritters and six snow blowers. We also have more than 2,500 salt bins in Sandbags communities across the county for residents We can provide to use on local roads. If a salt bin needs sandbags if your property refilling, complete the online form, quoting is at immediate risk of flooding in the wet winter the number on the top of the bin. months. Visit www.durham.gov.uk/sandbags www.durham.gov.uk/saltbins or call 03000 26 0000.
Highways Inspector, Charlotte Wilkinson is one of the team keeping our roads clear this winter. We work anti-social hours, getting up before most people to make sure the roads are safe for everyone to move around. No matter what the weather throws at us, we’re ready. Our team is committed to keeping the county moving and while you might not always see us, we are always working to keep the roads clear. My job is amazing, I get to see some of the most stunning landscapes in the High Pennines at all times of the year, but winter sees the biggest change in the landscape with the cold crisp mornings and the first snow of the year. Most days I am out and about before the sun rises. It can be challenging but knowing that people can safely travel is really rewarding.
18 Winter Stay well this winter wellness Follow our winter safety advice to stay safe, warm and healthy during the cold weather.
Free vaccinations It has never been more important to get your flu vaccination in order to protect yourself, your family and your community. Find out if you are eligible for a free vaccination at www.nhs.uk/getflujab You can also check if you are eligible for a pneumonia vaccine at www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/pneumococcal-vaccination People aged between 70 and 79 can also get a shingles vaccine. Check if you are eligible by visiting www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/shingles-vaccination
Medical tips Stay safe If you regularly take prescribed medicines, plan ahead to make sure you have In bouts of cold supplies over the holiday period and will not run out whilst pharmacies or GPs are closed. or extreme weather, it is important to look Ask for more information at your GP practice or visit out for elderly and https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/pharmacies/ vulnerable friends, how-to-order-repeat-prescriptions-online/ to find out how to family and neighbours. order repeat prescriptions online. If you are worried If you feel unwell, do not wait. Seek advice from your nearest about someone, call pharmacist for minor health concerns or call 111 if you have a Social Care Direct on more urgent medical problem. In an emergency, call 999. 03000 26 79 79. Watch out for signs of hyperthermia such as Stay warm shivering, cold and pale skin, slurred Cold weather can aggravate existing health speech, fast breathing, problems and make you more vulnerable to winter tiredness and illness. Heat your home to at least 18°C, stay active confusion. and make sure you have regular hot meals and If you think someone drinks. is suffering from hypothermia, call 999 Help to heat your home immediately. Are you worried about heating your home over winter? The energy efficiency of your home can impact on your energy bills as well as causing For more information issues such as condensation, mould and damp. and advice on staying well over the coming If you live in a rented property, it is your landlord’s responsibility to make improvements months, visit the that will bring the energy performance certificate (EPC) rating to E or above. Private NHS: Stay Well This landlords cannot rent out a property with a rating below E. Winter website Remember, there are several schemes that can help to fund home energy improvements www.nhs.uk/staywell so there is no reason why your landlord should not be able to carry out the work. If your landlord is unwilling to make improvements to a property with an EPC rating below E, contact [email protected] Our housing solutions team can also offer housing advice. Call 03000 268 000 or email [email protected]
19 Wellbeing Get inspired to get moving Staying active has never been so Make staying healthy your important for your health and mental winter priority wellbeing. That is why we have launched a new The coronavirus pandemic has made it harder for us to app to help you stay healthy and active in your own home, garden or when out stay active, but we have got some great tips to help and about. The MyWellness app offers you to get fit and stay in shape over the winter. daily workouts with step by step instruction on how to complete the Regular physical activity has many benefits, including helping to protect moves. us against chronic conditions including obesity, cardiovascular disease, If you are thinking of taking up type 2 diabetes, poor mental health and social isolation. In order to stay running as your New Year’s resolution healthy, guidelines recommend that adults should aim to be active for at you can follow Run Durham’s least 150 minutes of moderate intensity per week through activities such Get Run Ready or Couch to 5K as walking, cycling or swimming. programmes in the app. Or, join a As we get older, reducing our physical activity can lead to problems such monthly challenge to keep you as loss of strength, loss of physical capacity and increased need for care. motivated by working towards a goal Taking part in activities that improve strength at least two days a week or compete against friends. helps to keep muscles, bones and joint strong. This could include To get the app just follow these easy activities such as carrying steps: heavy bags, yoga or working out at the gym. It will help Step 1: Register online you maintain strength and https://www.mywellness.com/ ensure you stay healthy now thrivevirtual/User/RegisterUser/ and in the future. Step 2: Download the ‘MyWellness’ For ideas to stay active at app available from the app/play store home please visit: Step 3: Log in and enjoy the workouts www.durham.gov.uk/ in the comfort of your own home or keepactiveathome garden
Ways to wellbeing Our wellbeing team love exploring the great outdoors. Here they share their favourite routes for walking, running and cycling:
Craig Dailey loves the Auckland Way, which connects Spennymoor to Bishop Auckland using old railway lines. The trail can be used by anyone and everyone of all ages. It’s a nice route away from the busy streets with some lovely scenery that changes over the seasons – and you can often see wildlife, including deer. Phil Lightburn enjoys walking the trails behind Lumley Castle, near Chester-le-Street. It’s so peaceful, the scenery is beautiful, and you get some fantastic views of the castle.
For more cycling route suggestions, visit www.durham.gov.uk/cycling You can also find more inspiration on where to walk and run at www.durham.gov.uk/walkingandrunning
20 Top tips for winter cycling Cycling can help you stay fit, save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some top tips if you plan to get out on your bike this winter:
✔ Be safe, be seen. ✔ Wrap up warm and dry. ✔ Enjoy it. If you are well A good set of lights and A windproof and waterproof prepared, a bike ride on a crisp colourful clothes will make you jacket, over-trousers, gloves and winter morning and even when as visible as possible to other overshoes will all help keep out battling the elements can be road users. But do not forget to cold draughts. invigorating and rewarding. wear a helmet. For more hints and tips of cycling this winter visit ✔ Give your bike some love. www.durham.gov.uk/cycling Book a service to make sure everything’s working as it should and consider fitting How to fit your helmet mudguards to protect against surface water and dirt. Salt and water are bad for your bike so clean it often – use a degreaser to dislodge moisture and gunk 2 4 1 from moving parts and apply fingers fingers finger special wet weather chain oil to above your eyebrows to the to make a V-shape around under the strap beneath bottom of your helmet the bottom of your ears your chin keep you running smoothly.
Dry January Hundreds take on Dry January every year. Will you join them? An alcohol-free month can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, cut the risk of diabetes and reduce the levels of cancer-related proteins in the blood. Find out more about recommended units of alcohol at www.durham.gov.uk/Alcoholtypes
21 Your first choice for housing in County Durham
Available now No bond
believe housing 0300 1311 999 Karbon Homes 0808 164 0111 Livin 0800 587 4538 North Star Housing 03000 11 00 11
www.durhamkeyoptions.co.uk
22 Coronavirus Coronavirus advice and information
Protect your loved ones. Get the app.
The free NHS COVID-19 app is a vital part of the NHS Test and Trace service in England and everyone is encouraged to download and use it.
The app, which can be downloaded from the Apple app Get the latest local data store or Google Play, is the fastest way to see if you are at Having access to up to date intelligence about risk from coronavirus. The faster you know, the quicker the impact of coronavirus on County Durham you can alert and protect your loved is crucial to ensuring the number of cases in ones and your local community. the region continues to fall. It has a number of tools, including The Durham Insights Covid-19 dashboard is a valuable ✔ contact tracing tool, providing the latest information for County Durham, ✔ local area alerts including the total number of cases, seven-day rate, a live ✔ venue check-in map with the latest cases by local areas, regional comparisons, hospital admissions and the number of Using technology from Apple associated Covid-19 deaths. and Google, it is designed to The dashboard is based on Public Health England, NHS protect personal privacy. England and ONS statistical releases and is updated on a To find out more about privacy, bi-weekly basis. visit www.covid19.nhs.uk/ www.durhaminsight.info/covid-19/ privacy-and-data.html Frequently asked questions are available at Living well with… https://faq.covid19.nhs.uk/category/ COVID-19 ?id=CAT-01032&parentid=CAT-01023 People recovering from coronavirus may need time to come to terms with the impact the virus has had HANDS, FACE, SPACE, TEST on their body and their mind. The ‘HANDS. FACE. SPACE. TEST’ campaign has These changes should get better over time, been designed to encourage members of the although for some it may take longer than others. public to continue to wash their hands, cover their However, there are things you can do to help. face, make space to control infection rates and, if Your COVID Recovery can help people understand they have symptoms, get a test. what has happened and what they might expect as part of their recovery. Find out more at www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk
23 The place to find out about adult care and support in County Durham
24 Peace of mind for you or a loved one this winter.
Christmas can be a stressful time of year, remove some of the stress with Care Connect. We support vulnerable people of all ages to maintain their independence in their own home.
We provide a monitoring and response service to people’s homes 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering assistance and reassurance at any time of the day or year.
Special Offer Quote code WINTER2020* for free installation, one less worry this winter.
*Offer is for period between 1/11/20 – 15/01/21 For further information: 03000 262 195 [email protected] www.durham.gov.uk/careconnect
25 Towns and villages Seaham
Focus on Seaham
Our £20m Towns and Villages programme aims to reinvigorate high streets across the county, creating attractive and vibrant retail areas and places people want to visit when coronavirus restrictions are eased. With its stunning coastal views, Seaham has always been a popular spot for visitors. We have been working with local businesses to help them make the most of the town’s visitor economy – work we believe will play a significant part in the town’s recovery from the impact of the pandemic.
Just over a year ago, we launched being made to bring vacant across our town and village centres the Seaham Townscape Heritage buildings back into use, with the and the property, or part of it, must Project after securing a £1.6 million hope of developing and sustaining be vacant, derelict or in a poor state grant from The National Lottery business confidence in the area. of repair and unfit for the intended Heritage Fund. The three-year purpose. We have also recently launched a project aims to breathe fresh life into new interest free loan scheme for the town’s historic centre through The first applicant in Seaham was commercial premises to improve the regeneration of individual awarded an interest free loan to help areas with poor building stock and properties in the Church Street area. bring disused upper floor space into where investment is less likely. Loans use at 73 Church Street. Financial help for of up to £50,000 are available with a businesses repayment period of between three Our Targeted Business to 10 years. Improvement Scheme remains Owners and tenants are being available to tenants and owners who offered business improvement The scheme is open to individuals are not eligible for support under grants to help with restoration and businesses purchasing a vacant the Seaham Townscape Heritage works, such as repairing and or derelict property or looking to Project, but who do want to develop reinstating traditional features, or make significant improvements. or improve new and existing retail opening currently inaccessible The loan must be used with the businesses in the town. upper floor spaces. Efforts are also intention of improving occupancy
26 The former Harbour View Hotel is Combined with a display of how the the latest site to receive support marina has changed over time, this from this programme, with project will reconnect the local construction of a new three storey community and visitors to Seaham’s mixed use retail development well industrial and maritime heritage. underway. A completion and opening has been set for summer New smartphone app 2021. To encourage residents and visitors to explore Seaham’s dynamic Attractive, accessible spaces history, a smartphone app has been Seaham’s public spaces will also be commissioned to provide heritage new pedestrian routeway being upgraded and decluttered to make trails around the town. created at the bottom of Church them more attractive and accessible Street, complementing the The trails will tell the story of to visitors and shoppers. In time this Townscape Heritage Project works. buildings and sites of interest in will help to encourage pedestrian Seaham and their role in the movement around the centre, boost Marina improvements development of the town. It will also footfall and aid the town’s economic Meanwhile, work is also underway at offer the chance for businesses and recovery from the impact of the Red Acre Point at Seaham Marina to community groups to promote coronavirus pandemic. make this area accessible to the activities and events taking place in Following its successful tender public once more and take the area. submission, Seymour Civil advantage of the extensive coastal The app is due to launch in Engineering Contractors has carried and marine panorama. The project is December, with visitors to Seaham out the first phase of works on part of SeaScapes, a major initiative also being able to take advantage of Church Street on our behalf. funded by a National Lottery free public Wi-Fi in the town centre Enhancements are also planned for Heritage Fund grant. This exciting from early next year. Users will be North Terrace, Terrace Green and and long-anticipated able to connect to the ‘Connected South Terrace, including the £5 million project will see Seaham’ system and log on via a restoration of the exposed Rainton improvements all the way along the simple form or through social media. Railway Line tracks as a focal point of north east coast. We hope that the offer of free Wi-Fi the town’s heritage. will increase the time people spend At Seaham, the works will see the in the town centre, as well as Green Street car park has been creation of a new access point and encouraging additional footfall to resurfaced and spaces have been viewing area, as well as the support local businesses. widened to better suit modern stabilisation of the existing fort wall. vehicles. New drainage has also The new access point will be to the Find out more about the Seaham been installed and additional north of the site, with a new durable Townscape Heritage Project at motorcycle and bike parking has staircase, walkway and safety www.durham.gov.uk/ been created. This scheme links to a barriers. seahamtownscape
Please note: venue opening is subject to change, please check before you visit.
27 Green living
Top of the shops Stainton Grove Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) and Reuse Shop has been shortlisted for a national Let’s Recycle award. Stainton Grove HWRC was transformed in 2018 from a small site with a few skips to an impressive modern facility featuring a trade waste facility and a re-use shop that is the only one of its kind in the county. We have had some fantastic feedback from residents since it opened too: It’s great and I find myself calling in every other day… I’m on a low income and find that without this shop I probably wouldn’t have the things I do. The staff are fantastic – so friendly I find myself popping in for a chat. Stainton Grove is an excellent idea… I have had a rough time of things lately and when I needed to start up a new home with little money I found myself here at the shop. I think it’s great.. The winners were due to be announced after Durham County News went to print, but we will keep you updated.
Community Award-winning parks and Action Team green spaces clean up Parks, cemeteries and crematoriums across Our Community County Durham have once again been awarded Action Team has a prestigious national status. been sprucing up areas A total of 12 of our sites have received of Blackhall Colliery and Green Flag accreditation – the international Horden across the summer and autumn. quality mark for parks and green spaces. Acting upon tip offs from local communities, the team This is the fourth year in a row we have had a 100 per cent has tackled a host of unsightly blights such as dealing success rate for the 12 sites, which include Wharton Park, with empty properties, graffiti and illegally dumped in Durham City; Hardwick Park, in Sedgefield; Riverside waste and, working with landlords, skips were Park, in Chester-le-Street; Annfield Plain Park; Blackhill brought in to tackle excess rubbish. and Consett Park; and the Town Recreation Park, Bishop Due to the pandemic, the team Auckland. was unable to visit Thank you to the volunteers who work in partnership with communities in order to us to maintain our parks and open spaces. host their usual residents’ sessions so have been Find out more about parks and green spaces in County hosting virtual ones online Durham at www.durham.gov.uk/parks instead. The team will be heading to Shildon for their next improvement project in 2021. Find out more about the work of the team and how to access an online residents’ session at www.durham.gov.uk/cat
28 Reduce, reuse and recycle
Follow our 12 top tips for a greener festive season
1 3 Invest in an 2 Why not send artificial an e-card this year Christmas tree Reusable bags to spread your festive so you can are a great idea greetings? It is more keep using it for doing your own environmentally friendly every year. Christmas shopping and cheaper 4 and for giving too. as gifts. Plastic bags clog up recycling machinery so please place these in your 5 normal waste bin 7 and NOT your Purchase a recycling bin. home compost bin 6 Consider signing our to use for a greener Take single use plastics 2021 at unwanted clothes pledge www.durham.gov.uk/ and Christmas jumpers this Christmas as composting to a charity shop. a gift to the oceans? Those old bobbly jumpers can www.durham.gov.uk/ also be taken to a textile 8 singleuseplastics recycling bank Reuse www.durham.gov.uk/ left-over turkey clothesrecycling for a tasty treat on Boxing Day.
9 11 Recycle your broken Christmas lights and old electricals New toys from Santa? 12 at one of our Small Waste Electrical Do not throw all those Recycle cards and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) used batteries in the bin, and wrapping collection points. most supermarkets have Details of collection points are recycling points. – remember to tear off any available at glue or tape before recycling www.durham.gov.uk/WEEE 10 wrapping paper as only plain paper, without foil or glitter, can Love mince go in the recycling bin. Christmas pies? Do not forget card recycling is available at to recycle their many high street shops foil cases. and supermarkets.
29 Adventure awaits this winter
With its beautiful scenery and wonderful wildlife, you do not need to travel far for an outdoor adventure in County Durham.
Winter is the perfect time of year to discover Durham’s hidden gems. Whether you fancy a gentle family stroll or a more challenging trek, the county has walking and cycling routes for all ages and abilities.
Six winter walks and rides Auckland Castle Deer Northern Saints Trails – Park, Bishop Auckland The Way of Life Auckland Castle Deer Park The Auckland Project A new map has been created with (Gainford to Durham City) three suggested walks, from a short Discover one of the six new Northern walk around the inner park to a Saints Trails, which bring to life the 4.6km trail spanning the wider fascinating stories of the region’s saints. parkland. Look out for fascinating The Way of Life, from Gainford to Durham historic landmarks along the way City, is a 29-mile route featuring one of as you discover the charm of the England’s oldest churches, plus places Deer Park, created over 800 years where St Cuthbert made miracles occur. ago by the Prince Bishops of Durham. Lanchester Valley Railway Path Durham Heritage Coast This route is part of an extensive network Enjoy spectacular views on the of Railway Paths which are fantastic for Durham Coastal Footpath - an walkers and cyclists alike. The Lanchester 11-mile route from Seaham to Valley railway was built to carry iron ore to Crimdon following the England Consett Steelworks and coal from Langley Coast Path National Trail, or cycle Park. It opened for passenger service in part of the North Sea Cycle Route. 1862 and closed to all traffic in 1965. As Discover spectacular grasslands, you travel along the line, notice the old magical coastal denes and uncover station houses and platforms at various the rich heritage that has shaped points. the coastline. Greta Bridge to Brignall Banks Hardwick Park, Sedgefield The hamlet of Greta Bridge was once a This 18th Century parkland offers major stop for travellers arriving by horse beautiful views and fascinating and carriage. In 1838, Charles Dickens heritage. You can even take part in a spent his first night in Teesdale, lodging series of games available through at Greta Bridge. Watercolourist John Sell the Love Exploring app. And from Cotman was also a visitor, sketching the Saturday 12 December to Sunday 3 local beauty spot in 1805. Hard to resist a January take part in the 12 Days of little-known walk in an area that has Christmas children’s trail. inspired painters and writers.
Please note: venue opening is subject to change, please check before you visit.
30 Make a virtual visit If you prefer to explore the county from the comfort or your home, there are a range of great ways to discover Durham online - from virtual tours and quizzes, to colouring sheets and craft ideas.
Here are some virtual winter highlights… ❅ Durham Festival of Food and Drink – take a look at page 3 to find out more about this showcase of tasty treats, taking place between Saturday 14 November and Thursday 24 December.
❅ Virtual pantomime – Gala Theatre’s much- loved pantomime is unable to take place this year, but some its regulars stars are set to feature in a new online adventure. Rottenchops’ Revenge will be performed as a series of short films. Rupert Von Rottenchops has kidnapped the Mayor of Durham. Without any pantomimes to perform in this year, a series of characters from pantos past team up to secure his safe return. Find out more at www.galadurham.co.uk
For further details and to find out about walking and cycling Treasures of Palace Green Library routes in your area, visit www.thisisdurham.com/outdoors ❅ – history lovers can discover some of the treasures of Durham University’s collections through a new online exhibition. Please ensure you obtain full directions for walking and cycling routes, and check rights of way information and current https://stories.durham.ac.uk/treasures-of- conditions prior to visiting. Please also follow any national and palace-green-library/ local restrictions in place and plan ahead to ensure that you #LoveDurham safely. Find more online activities at For more details visit www.thisisdurham.com/covid-19 www.thisisdurham.com/fromyoursofa
Please note: venue opening is subject to change, please check before you visit.
31 We’re recruiting people aged 18+ for care sector roles across County Durham
We’ve launched a recruitment and training programme to upskill potential new staff to access opportunities in the adult health and social care sector. Our fast track digital training programme and DBS disclosure service can get you ready to start your new career in care, for those who care.
There are dozens of opportunities across the County find out how to apply now visit:
www.durham.gov.uk/careacademyrecruitment
03000 260 222 facebook.com/CareAcademyDurham