ONE GIANT MAY 2015 LEAP!

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council Big plans, bright future CONTENTS

Stockton’s gigantic BIFF 2015 #theloudestwhisper celebration 06 26 40 CONTENTS News Round Up Economic Regeneration Children and 4 and Transport 6 Young People 15

BIG NEWS FOR BIG PLANS FOR AN BIG PLANS FOR THE YOUNG STOCKTON-ON-TEES OUTSTANDING BOROUGH PEOPLE OF OUR BOROUGH

Community Arts, Culture Adults Safety 20 and Leisure 22 Services 30

BIG PLANS FOR KEEPING BIG PLANS FOR GREAT BIG PLANS FOR THE UR OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE EXPERIENCES CARE WE PROVIDE FEAT ING Health and Environment Strong There’s a FEATURING Wellbeing 32 and Housing 34 Communities 38

BIG PLANS FOR THE BIG PLANS FOR OUR BIG PLANS FOR HELPING T H L HEALTH OF OUR PEOPLE PLACES AND OPEN SPACES OUR COMMUNITIES PROSPER L E E THERE’S A STORY TO TELL story to tell… R T E ’S TO A STORY Your What’s On Thursday 30 July – Sunday 1 August Council 42 44

SIRF15 has everything you would expect - four town, Instant Light, will be the main focus of AMBITIOUS, EFFECTIVE BIG PLANS FOR days packed with street theatre, circus, dance SIRF15, presented in episodes over the full AND PROUD TO SERVE THE FUTURE and music but this year it will also celebrate weekend it will bring diversity, community the imaginative and bold redevelopment of the spirit, love and a real sense of place. ONE GIANT town centre. MAY 2015 LEAP! 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

Inspired by a story we commissioned from Sara 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, Maitland about how Stockton became a festival www.sirf.co.uk /stocktonfestival /sirf_stockton 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 publication. Your views and comments Gazette, Dave Jamieson, Dawn McNamara are welcome. and others.

There is an audio version of Stockton News. Call 01642 526098 to order a copy or email [email protected]

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council Big plans, bright future

PAGE 3 NEWS ROUND UP NEWS ROUND UP WELCOME TO THIS MAY Borough businesses An artist’s impression of how the store may look EDITION OF STOCKTON NEWS. THIRTEEN’S As always when we pull together the news to bring you triumph! in our quarterly update on the Borough I’m struck by just how much there is going on right across the Borough. It’s good to be able to report so many business success NEW BASE stories with five Stockton-on-Tees businesses taking honours at the North East Business Awards, growth in the digital and creative sector at Digital House and at Billingham set Fusion Hive (see page 11) and of course the report on the spectacular celebration to mark the completion of the Visualsoft CEO Dean Benson holds the Company of the Year trophy two and a half year multi-million pound regeneration of aloft (picture courtesy of The Gazette) Stockton High Street. to welcome Aldi We recognise that economic conditions are still Five Stockton-on-Tees businesses returned Billingham will soon be challenging and the effect of welfare reforms and triumphant from the recent Teesside finals cuts in public funding are continuing to have an effect, of the North East Business Awards. home to another big name. so it is good to see so much growth, investment and The derelict Billingham Arms Hotel will be demolished later Visualsoft, an e-commerce firm based in Stockton, was the big regeneration in the Borough. I’m keenly aware that this summer to make way for a new Aldi store, which is winner of the evening, walking off with the coveted Company of there’s a huge amount of investment going into the road expected to open early next year. the Year award. networks across the Borough and there’s an update on The store will be the latest in a string of investments in Newcomer of the Year went to Teesside Industrial Solutions of these schemes on pages 12 and 13, including advance Billingham including a new library and customer service Stockton, which provides rope access services to the industrial notice of essential works at Teesside Park this summer. centre, high quality paving, seating and lighting as well as services sector. We realise that roadworks can cause frustration and enhanced facilities at John Whitehead Park. The Let’s Grow Award was claimed by PJA Distribution Limited disruption but on completion they improve the quality Thirteen is making the final As part of the Tees Valley Bus Network Improvement project, of Thornaby, which focuses on importing and retailing mobile and condition of the network. work is also under way to introduce new bus stops, disabled phone accessories. I’m also struck by just how many remarkable people we preparations to its state-of- parking bays and extend the taxi rank on the Causeway to Integrity Search Limited, of Eaglescliffe, was successful in the make it easier for people to visit the town. are lucky enough to have in our Borough – people like Digital Award category after its growing success in the digital the-art new head office on Phyllis Robinson, who has been fostering for 40 years marketing sector. (see page 16) and our new MYPs Jess Hugill and Kushan The Small Business Award went to Tomlinson Hall & Co, of the banks of the River Tees. Bhardwaj, as well as our former MYP Jessica Belch who Billingham, an engineering company specialising in pump The 43,000 sq ft office at Northshore will accommodate is doing extremely well (see page 18). manufacture, repair and distribution. around 300 of the housing group’s employees. I’m delighted to bring you an update on the Positively Teesside Industrial Solutions, PJA Distribution Limited and Stockton-on-Tees campaign which is shining a light on the Tomlinson Hall & Co all went on to win their categories at the Alison Thain, Chief Executive, said: “We are very proud to be many great things in the Borough. We’re proud to provide regional finals of the awards – a huge well done to all concerned. part of this important regeneration project and to be making this platform for you to share your views and we’ve been significant investment in the area. We are looking forward to overwhelmed by the poems, pictures and stories you being part of a vibrant community at Northshore.” have posted. We were delighted that thousands of people Northshore is a multi-million pound scheme developed by turned out to join in The Loudest Whisper as part of the Cycling Muse Developments in partnership with the Homes and Communities Agency with support from Stockton Council campaign and you can see a flavour of the two great days The Billingham Arms Hotel site is fenced off for demolition in March on pages 40 and 41. success! And finally, as always there’s a lot coming up in our packed Hot on the heels of Stockton’s Tune in to Stockton’s engaging content for listeners of all events calendar over the next few months. Preparations are best ever Duathlon came ages from within Stockton Borough well under way for events during Armed Forces week, for the announcement that the newest radio station and beyond. Stockton International Riverside Festival 2015, for Billingham Borough will host the 2016 A new radio station is “The team here at Ignition are International Folklore Festival and for our fantastic three-day British Cycling National bringing something passionate and dedicated individuals Road Championships! Cycling Festival beginning on 10 July. There’s also a wide different to the airwaves who have previously done great The Championships – won in recent years by the likes of Sir range of specialist markets on offer. We hope you’ll come across the Borough. work in helping our young people along and enjoy them. Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish and Laura Trott – will take to access volunteer opportunities in place during the Borough’s popular Cycling Festival in June In the next edition we’ll bring Ignition Radio, based in Hardwick, is community media.” next year. a new online community station run you news on the outcome of Marcus Summerfield, Station by a team of volunteers. It provides the elections and details of the Reuben Kench, Stockton Council’s Head of Culture, Leisure and Manager and Presenter, said: Adult Learning, said: “Bringing the country’s most exciting elite an eclectic mix of hit music, local councillors you have elected to “We are looking for local poets, cycling competition to Stockton-on-Tees is a huge coup for us news and information. historians, presenters or anyone serve you. and is an early sign that the new look Stockton High Street has Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, wanting to get their work aired the pulling power to attract major events.” Councillor Barbara Inman on local radio to work with us.” Details of all of the Borough’s events, as well as a look back said: “It was a real pleasure to To tune in, or find out more, visit Neil Schneider at events highlights from the last year, can be found at formally launch this exciting new www.ignitionradio.co.uk or listen station. Ignition Radio will provide Chief Executive, www.stockton.gov.uk/events via the TuneIn Radio app on mobiles. entertaining, informative and Mayor Barbara Inman is shown the controls at Ignition Radio Stockton Borough Council

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The celebration marked the completion of the Town Centre’s And the fun didn’t stop with the show. There was an two and a half year, multi-million pound regeneration. abundance of other activities for people to enjoy too, including puppet-making, face-painting, storytelling, An amazing piece of street theatre culminating in the crazy golf, hula-hooping, street theatre and live music. Stockton’s Gigantic unveiling of a stunning new water feature in the town’s central area was the highlight of Stockton’s very own party. An enthralled audience was made up of people of all ages, ranging from babies and toddlers to 101-year-old The Council’s Head of Culture, Leisure and Learning & Eddy Appleby who grew up in Oxbridge and spent 43 years Skills, Reuben Kench, said: “The mesmerising show by as a butcher at Stockton Co-op. He, and his wife, 97-year- Carros de Foc and Stockton’s very own Heritage Dance old Anne, were delighted to see the town’s transformation Studio pupils perfectly showcased the versatility of the for themselves. new water feature and its surrounding seating and planting CELEBRATION areas. It will be remembered for many years to come by The world’s tallest puppet and an eight metre wide eagle joined thousands of Stockton everyone who was lucky enough to be there.” residents and visitors to launch the new-look Stockton Town Centre in spectacular fashion.

The launch was the talk of the Anne (via Facebook): Magical day. Sharon Olivero-Chapman, Managing Internet with hundreds of people Stockton is now a place to be. Director of The Stottie Company in the Castlegate Centre, said: The Launch Day taking to social media and online Tina (via Twitter): We were there was fabulous for the town, not only for its blogs to express their delight at enjoying the sunshine and watching the residents and the audience it attracted, the event. Here’s a selection of kids running about in the water, was but it was also a great day of trading for really nice to see. Can’t wait for the the best comments. the town’s businesses, including ours! summer to enjoy it even more. Helen (comment left on online blog): So much so, it was in fact our busiest and I loved the feeling of fun and togetherness Tracy Hart, owner of Chocs Away! on highest earning day since the opening in the high street. I went shopping after Silver Street was also thrilled: 21 March of our flagship store in the Castlegate wandering around and it was great to passed in a blur, an orange blur as I was Shopping Centre in December - the see the shops bursting with customers… dressed up as an oompa loompa that perfect day to showcase our new brand. long may it continue! day... “I sold more than 350 mega lollies, Thank you for such an impressive day! together with lots of chocolates and A video, photographs of the celebrations and Margaret (via Facebook): It was great handmade fudge. At times, with the shop the programmed water feature times are watching the little ones playing in the being full for virtually the entire day, I felt available at www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk water. Looks beautiful. as if I was the only sweet shop in the world.

PAGE 6 PAGE 7 ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT The 2015 specialist markets programme kicked off in magnificent style with the Allsorts Market Take a peek inside It’s all about taking centre stage in Stockton Town Centre. The lively bazaar gave hundreds of shoppers the opportunity to peruse unique goods from the best traders across the whole The Shambles specialist markets programme. There is now more variety than ever before in markets in From unusual homewares to clothes, gifts, tasty treats and free family fun, there really will be something to tempt Stockton’s Shambles Market Hall. shoppers from Stockton and beyond this summer. Willow Florist and children’s gift shop, ‘Baby Joy’ are the It’s not just the specialist markets which are flourishing, the latest retailers to move into the Grade II listed building. Stockton town’s 700-year-old traditional market – on every Wednesday, They join six other independent businesses offering visitors Friday and Saturday – is booming too. and residents a whole range of products and services at the heart of the High Street. Nichola Brown of Willow Florist Shoppers can also enjoy tasty treats and drinks at Andrea’s Pantry café, get their shoes fixed at Tom’s Shoe Repairs, pick up traditional pick and mix at old fashioned sweet shop The Sweet Weigh, buy a personalised gift or promotional item Book Fair from Perzonalize, and even get a haircut from ‘the singing Ka-Pow Sci-Fi Market Saturday 20 June barber’ Paul Barton at Quick Cuts barber shop. and Family Fun Day 10am – 4pm The indoor market hall is fully occupied with one unit Dates Saturday 6 June allocated for use as a pop-up shop, offering entrepreneurs 9am-5pm the chance to test their retail ideas on a short-term basis. The Shambles is open Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm. for Retailers can trade in the pop-up shop for up to three months at competitive rates.

To find out more email [email protected] or Nichola Birdsall of Baby Joy your Continental Market call 01642 526278 Wednesday 10 – Saturday 13 June diary: 10am – 5pm Stockton’s hidden gems Kiddiwinks’ Market Kathryn Hardy, owner of Much Ado About Muffins in Independents’ Market Nestled away in three yards leading Saturday 18 July Hambletonian Yard, says she’d like more shoppers to explore Saturday 4 July from Stockton High Street is an the town’s tiniest streets. “The yards may be small but they 10am – 4pm 12 noon – 5pm assortment of independent retailers. are jam packed with shops like mine. If you’re looking for something different and special make Take a stroll into Hambletonian Yard, Blue Post Yard or Ship Inn sure you take a trip to Stockton’s yards.” Yard to find everything from tearooms to gift shops, beauticians and even a micro pub. Any traders interested in joining Kathryn and the other retailers in Stockton’s yards can find out more by contacting Stockton Council’s Business Engagement team on Chic Vintique Market 01642 528384 or email business. Farmers’ Market Saturday 4 July [email protected] Saturday 27 June 10am – 4pm 9am – 2pm

For full details visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk or find us at facebook/rediscoverstockton

Rediscover Stockton for free It’s easy to take advantage of all that the newly requires payment and display of a ticket as normal. rejuvenated Stockton Town Centre has to offer. Eligible car parks are Bath Lane North, Bishop Parking is free for the first 60 minutes in all of the Street, Hume Street, Municipal Buildings, Prince town’s short stay, off-street car parks. It costs just Regent Street, The Square, Tower Street, West Row, £1 for the next two hours and £1 per hour after High Street and The Shambles. that. Drivers must still collect and display a ticket A map showing all of the car parks can be from the nearest machine even if they only intend to downloaded at www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk park for 60 minutes. Any stay longer than an hour Kathryn Hardy of Much Ado About Muffins Jonny Christie, landlord at the Golden Smog

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Stockton is fast becoming something of a hotbed for new digital and creative businesses. Stockton’s Since opening two years ago, Digital House on Dovecot Street has become a proven incubator for fledgling companies. The Great British Bake Off’s Mary Berry officially opens the new Barker and Stonehouse store on Teesside Park But the opportunities don’t stop there – just a digital short walk away, on the banks of the Tees, the new Fusion Hive innovation centre is taking shape. It’s hardly surprising that Stockton is so attractive revolution to digital and creative entrepreneurs.

“The building is stunning with a real buzzy and vibrant feel,” Businesses thrive says Joanna Wake, whose RAW Digital Training is based there. “It gives the wow factor to every client that walks in! “We’re pretty spoilt with amazing connectivity and top of the at Digital House range facilities, all in the centre of town. Pair all that with the The 200-year-old Grade II listed building offers a great community and collaborative feel from being amongst range of accommodation options together with other peers, and it makes the perfect base.” networking areas, conference facilities and access Meanwhile, after several months of Bake Off star opens Barker to high-end technology. successful trading, three Digital House businesses are moving out so they Digital House can expand. and Stonehouse store One of them is Matt McGough’s digital film content company, Ithica Films. The prestigious £4.5million building has been constructed on the More than 3,500 excited shoppers former Springs site, transforming the approach to the retail park. “We’ve been based at Digital House for eight months and it’s allowed and fans joined Mary Berry to For Barker and Stonehouse, it’s a return to the company’s us to grow as a business,” he said. celebrate the opening of Barker roots as it opened its first store in Stockton in 1946. “We’ve been able to host clients in Managing Director, James Barker, said: “The opening of a professional environment and it’s and Stonehouse’s spectacular our new store and head office is the culmination of years of been great to be around other digital planning and months of building – and we couldn’t be more businesses going through the new Teesside Park store. pleased with the results.” same stages.” To find out more visit one of the UK’s leading engineering www.digitalhouse.uk Joanna Wake of RAW Digital Training providers, Nortech Solutions. The company provides engineering design, project and construction management services to oil and gas, iron, steel and NEW OPPORTUNITIES AT FUSION HIVE petrochemical industries. It began with An impressive business and innovation centre at just four members of staff in 2011 and Northshore is quickly taking shape. now employs around 80 people. Fusion Hive is a three storey, 36,000 sq ft building which Managing Director Bryan Bunn will provide flexible working spaces for around 60 small and (pictured) said: “One of the main medium sized enterprises in the digital and scientific sectors motivators to setting up at Wynyard was in an enviable riverside location. its accessibility from all the major urban areas of the North East of England. This Managed by Teesside University, the facility will equip allows employees to commute from the tenants with high-tech modern workspace. traditionally industrial areas of Teesside, Laura Woods, Director of Academic Enterprise at Teesside Bryan Bunn, MD of Nortech Solutions Newcastle, Sunderland, Hartlepool and University, said: “Not only will small and medium Darlington as well as allowing Nortech enterprises at Fusion Hive benefit from a state-of-the-art access to a large pool of talent.” working environment but they’ll also have access to the Business is booming at Wynyard Park Another prestigious occupant of the park University’s resources, knowledge base and talent and our is award-winning pigments manufacturer proven expertise at helping companies to succeed.” Stockton is fast becoming a Situated near Billingham, the park offers businesses high quality, serviced Huntsman, which has established an Fusion Hive is a partnership project between Muse, growing and prosperous place to office space, meeting and conference international headquarters and research Stockton Council, Teesside University and the Homes and do business and Wynyard Park facilities, a café and even a nursery - and technology centre since relocating to Communities Agency. the park in 2011. is just one part of the Borough all under one roof. Any small or medium sized enterprise interested in joining And around 60 businesses are benefiting To find out more about Wynyard Park, the Fusion Hive should visit www.fusionhive.co.uk where business is thriving. from the facilities so far, including visit www.wynyardpark.com or call 01642 384400 for further information.

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Stockton Council continues to invest in ensure we can keep traffic moving in the long- maintaining and improving infrastructure to keep term, we do appreciate that they can cause up with the rapid pace of change in the Borough. disruption in the short-term. While work to dual the A174 in Thornaby is coming We are sorry for any inconvenience caused and Investing in to an end, the dualling of some key routes in value your patience and understanding. Ingleby Barwick will soon get under way. We communicate details of any roadworks Essential structural repairs on a busy route into through local radio and other media, and we also Teesside Park will also take place this summer. publish details of major schemes on our website - infrastructure Though these improvements are needed to visit www.stockton.gov.uk/majorhighwayprojects Repairs needed at Teesside Park A £1million scheme to carry out essential structural repairs 1 3 on a key access to Teesside Park will take place this summer. Middlesbrough Rd The repairs are needed on Teesside Park Drive at its junctions with the westbound sliproads to and from the A66, which A66 overlook the new Barker and Stonehouse store. Severe subsidence at the junctions has caused repeated damage to the road surface and is now at risk of cutting off the power supply to the traffic signals. A66 The Council’s Head of Economic Growth and Development Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “We’ve had to do a number 2 of temporary repairs over the years as the cost of a permanent fix was so significant. “Unfortunately, these repairs are no longer proving effective but the good news is that we’ve secured a £900,000 Local Growth 4 3 Fund allocation, which we’re supporting with £150,000 of Council funding, to carry out a much-needed permanent repair. “This will be a complex operation because we need to remove a significant quantity of tarmac from the road surface to carry out the work. As well as the essential repairs, we’ll be 1 providing new traffic signals, upgraded crash barriers and improved pedestrian facilities.

“We know this is a busy route, both for Teesside Park visitors Teesside Park Dr and for people getting to and from the Teesdale area, and there will inevitably be some disruption. But, we have to do this work at some point and will do all we can to keep it to a minimum.” At the time of going to print, the Council was in the process of appointing a contractor to carry out the work but details of the programme, including any closures or diversions, will be published on the Council’s website. The Council will also be working closely with the operators of Teesside Park to provide 2 4 scheme information boards and leaflets at key locations. Teeside Park Dr

The Council secured a £3.3million contribution from the The Council’s Head of Economic Growth and Development Road improvements in the south of the Borough Government’s Local Pinch Point Fund towards its part of Services, Richard McGuckin, said: Stockton Council has been dualling the stretch of the A174 the work. “These projects will ease traffic flow and make journeys Stockton Council is leading the quicker and smoother. between Thornaby Road and UK Land’s new Avro Anson And after delivering it around £300,000 under budget, the way in the delivery of £19million roundabout at Fleck Way. Council secured permission to use the funds to enhance a “This kind of investment is important as it means we can of improvements to the highways Meanwhile, the Highways Agency has been dualling the A174 separate scheme in Ingleby Barwick. adapt our highways network to make sure it continues to meets the needs of residents, visitors and businesses. network in the south of the Borough. east of the Avro Anson roundabout to the A19 and creating That scheme – due to get under way late summer – will see extra capacity at the A19/A174 roundabout. parts of Myton Way and Ingleby Way dualled too. “The easier it is to get around the more appealing our Borough The improvements follow extensive traffic modelling to is to new businesses, which in turn encourages growth and Together, these schemes will reduce congestion and create a The extra money will be used to upgrade noise reduction identify exactly where they are needed. job creation.” new access to Teesside Industrial Estate. measures along Myton Way. At the time of going to print, a series of upgrades to the A174 in Thornaby was nearing completion.

PAGE 12 PAGE 13 ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Members of the Prince’s Trust Stockton team in the Stockton HUB HELPS ACTIVE COMMUTERS Newtown Resource Centre, which they have renovated Commuters are being encouraged The Hub also operates a ‘Bike Buddy’ scheme for people looking for others to cycle to work with or purely to share to enjoy active journeys thanks to an enjoyable bike ride. a new Hub based on Bridge Road Free cycle parking at the Hub is available between 7.30am and 5.30pm from Monday to Friday. in Stockton. The Hub is run by Sustrans, a UK charity enabling people Experienced staff and volunteers are on hand at to travel more by foot, bike or public transport, with funding the Hub, the UK’s first active travel and cycle support from the Big Lottery Fund and Stockton Council. parking centre. For more information, visit www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com A range of free information on or call 01642 803441. walking and cycling is on offer, along with access to regular guided rides and walks across the Borough, plus training Young people courses on road cycling and bike maintenance. With nearly 2,000 make a difference members already, the Hub continues to grow and raise the profile of Two groups of unemployed young while over in Billingham the team to the centre. There was a lot to do but we sustainable travel across people have proven that they are overhauled the lounge and garden at the were determined to get it just right.” Stockton Borough. not afraid of a spot of hard work. Low Grange Resource Centre. The Prince’s Trust Team programme is Paul Morrison, Smarter Choices Coordinator at “It has taken real graft but we have made The Hub, signs up a Durham University student Members of the Prince’s Trust Stockton and a 12 week personal development course Billingham teams rolled up their sleeves to what was a plain room look like a proper delivered by Stockton Riverside College, do their bit for their communities. children’s nursery,” said Stockton Team which helps young job seekers, aged 16 member Akash Ahmed, 16. to 25, gain the skills and confidence they THE ADVERT BELOW IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY OUR PARTNERS AT CONNECT TEES VALLEY The Stockton team volunteered to Of their project in Billingham, Team need to find work or return to education. renovate a new nursery facility at For more details go to www.stockton.ac.uk Stockton’s Newtown Resource Centre, member, Susie Walls, 19, said: “Our aim was to brighten up the facilities for visitors or call 01642 865 566. Apprentices find There are loads of ways for everyone to have fun this their niche at summer! Visit www.bigsummer.co.uk Stockton Council Stockton Council is proud to employ to find a full list of things to do, apprentices across its services. places to go and how to get Since 2012, the Council has provided 57 apprenticeships Louis provides ICT support to money off at top attractions in areas as varied as business administration, catering, Customer Service Officer Paula Adams horticulture and ICT. Sixteen of the young people who have across the North East. completed their apprenticeship journey have gone on to work for the Council, eight have found employment with other He said: “I really enjoyed my time as an apprentice with Visit the companies. Three have returned to education for further Stockton Council, and I learnt a lot about ICT, customer Big study and 19 continue to work towards their nationally service skills and working life. The apprenticeship program Summer website for recognised qualification. was very interesting and it gave me experience in all areas. a chance to win a family I am really happy with my new job and I cannot wait to see Louis Spencer is one of the apprentices who has found day out at an attraction what my future holds within the Council.” employment with Stockton Council. In 2013 he began a Level of your choice. 3 ICT apprenticeship with Stockton Council’s successful public All apprenticeship vacancies are advertised on Stockton Council’s website and on the National Apprenticeship Website Terms and competition rules apply. partnership, Xentrall Shared Services. After successfully completing his NVQ qualification, Louis was appointed to a throughout the year. To find out more about apprenticeship temporary position as an ICT Infrastructure Technician. opportunities within the Council contact 01642 528277 or email [email protected]

PAGE 14 PAGE 15 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE 40 years IN THE WRONG HANDS? A campaign to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation issues has been launched in Stockton, Hartlepool, of foster Middlesbrough, and Redcar & Cleveland. The “In the Wrong Hands” campaign reaches out to schools, parents and communities to highlight the issue, and direct care! victims towards those who can help. Child sexual exploitation is a form of abuse that involves the “He buys me things...I don’t grooming, manipulation and/or coercion of young people want to say no, I should be under the age of 18 into sexual activity. polite, right?” It can take place in any location and at any time and offenders can be peers, older young people and/or adults, both male and female. The high profile publicity campaign, which includes leaflets and posters, highlights the tell-tale signs to look out for and provides information on how to access support and advice. Colin Morris, independent Chair of the Stockton-on-Tees Local Safeguarding Children Board, said: “The protection and safeguarding of children and young people is of paramount importance, and they must have the confidence that they will be listened to, that they will be given appropriate support and that where possible, action will be taken to ensure that any alleged abusers are brought to justice. “It should also be stressed that this is an issue for the whole community, and we need the public to be our eyes and ears Phyllis with members of her fostered and report any signs of suspicious or abusive behaviour.” family and some of their children CHILDLINE: 0800 11 11 / POLICE: 101 If you know a vulnerable young person who needs a helping 0800 11 11 101 Stockton’s longest-serving foster parents divorced in the 1940s, we went hand, call Childline on or the police on . CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION IS A SERIOUS CRIME. carer, 75-year-old Phyllis Robinson, “I love fostering and to live with my nana. She also began is celebrating her 40th year of looking after children from another fostering this year. Here, she looks I’ll do it for as long family after their mum died, and at You do not need any particular qualifications or experience to back on the life she has devoted to as I can. I’d be lonely one point there were 18 of us in a two apply for this position but you must have some knowledge of welcoming hundreds of children into bedroom house! It was marvellous fun! Can you help local child safety issues, be a confident communicator and be her Eaglescliffe home. without any children She never turned anyone away and was prepared to challenge the Board’s policies and procedures. my inspiration to become a foster carer. In 1975, when Harold Wilson was Prime and they certainly As a Lay Member you will act as an independent, Minister and people were wearing over- “Like my Nana did for me and my keep children informed observer and be able to ask questions which the sized collars and flares, or listening to keep me young!” siblings, I’ve dedicated my life to professionals closely involved in the Board’s work might not the likes of Abba and The Osmonds, welcoming children into my home. I like think of asking. Phyllis was preparing to foster her first “I went on to adopt him and I continued to think I’ve given them love and stability and young You will be asked to attend monthly morning meetings on the child, a little boy called Ewan*. to foster, but I also adopted another and I feel proud knowing that so many third Thursday of the month and may also be invited to attend five children, which means today I of them have gone on to lead happy and other meetings and events. The minimum time commitment “He had experienced violence and successful lives, despite once facing was very vulnerable,” said Phyllis who am a mother of nine children and a people safe? is eight half days a year. This is a voluntary position and uncertain futures. also has three birth daughters, now in grandmother to 11. To date, I believe out of pocket travelling expenses will be available to attend their 40s. “He came to me extremely I’ve fostered close to 300 children but “I love fostering and I’ll do it for as Stockton-on-Tees Local Safeguarding Children meetings, if required. frustrated and preferred to isolate understandably, I’ve lost count! Mother’s long as I can. I’d be lonely without any Board (SLSCB) is seeking a local resident to Applicants should not be employed by any of the agencies Day is always a busy one and I still don’t children and they certainly keep himself even though we were desperate become a Lay Member of the Board. represented on the Board and will be subject to an interview to make him feel part of our family. have enough vases for all the flowers! me young!” and a Disclosure and Barring Service check. This is a great opportunity to help make sure that Stockton- “After weeks of patience and gentle “I’ve always been part of a big family, as * Name has been changed Applications must be received by no later on-Tees agencies working with children and families are encouragement, he finally joined in on I was one of 10 children myself. After my than Tuesday, June 30. safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and our family game of Tiddlywinks and a To find out more, or for young people across the Borough effectively. bond was formed. He stopped being If you would like more information on becoming a foster carer, an application pack, aggressive and one day he came to me If you are over 18, a resident of the Borough of Stockton-on- contact LSCB Business for a cuddle. I could sense he felt happy email [email protected] or call 01642 526218. Tees, and interested in the welfare of children and young Manager Pauline Beall and secure, and at that moment I knew I You can also make an enquiry online at people, then Stockton-on-Tees Safeguarding Children Board on 01642 527632 or email would like to hear from you. wanted him to stay in our family forever. www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering [email protected]

PAGE 16 PAGE 17 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Tracey Hall drops excited son Flynn off at Little Ladybirds Meet your new Congratulations to Jess Hugill on being elected as Stockton Youth Parliament Borough’s MP for the UK’s Youth Parliament! representatives Jess, 16, from Conyers School in Yarm, received 2,464 votes, while 15-year-old Kushan Bhardwaj from St Patrick’s Catholic College in Thornaby was appointed to the role of Deputy after Stockton’s new MYPs Jess Hugill and Kushan Bhardwaj polling 2,071 votes. Jess said: “It’s fantastic to be elected as Member of Youth Parliament for Stockton-on-Tees. I am looking forward to learning more about the people I represent. I believe strongly in young people’s campaigns, particularly those around mental health issues and allowing 16 and 17 year olds to vote.” Kushan added: “My priority is to create a platform for students to come and have their say on what they want so we can help to build a better community, a better Stockton and a better UK.” The election reached more than 9,000 pupils across 11 schools which attracted an impressive 69.7 per cent turnout. FREE CHILDCARE To learn more about the Youth Parliament, visit www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk FOR TWO YEAR OLDS

“When I heard about the 15 hours’ free Did you know your childcare for two year olds I didn’t think I would be eligible but I checked and child may be entitled applied online. I was delighted to be able …former MYP Jessica hitting new heights to send my son Flynn to a nursery round to a free childcare the corner from where we live, which The outgoing Member of the UK Jessica Belch place for 15 hours a works perfectly for me. Youth Parliament for Stockton “This means I can now work in the week during school mornings and Flynn has come on leaps Borough, Jessica Belch, has been and bounds since he started at Little term time? Ladybirds. He absolutely loves it and is recognised as a fantastic role model. Don’t let your child miss out on the best thriving. I would recommend that anyone Jessica (pictured) was a runner-up in the prestigious Lord start in life. Give them the opportunity with a two year old needing childcare Glenamara Memorial Prize, which recognises the outstanding to make new friends, learn through play sees if they are eligible too.” contribution of pupils from the North East to their school and and have lots of fun. To find out if you are eligible visit local communities. Mum of three Tracey Hall is one Stockton www.stockton.gov.uk/freechildcare Flynn tries out a tricycle, supervised

She was nominated by Paul Webster, Head of Sixth Form at parent who has benefitted greatly from or contact Stockton Council’s Families by Little Ladybirds’ Helen Shearer Conyers School in Yarm, who described her as “a leading light.” Stockton Council’s two year offer. Information Service on 01642 527225. “Jessica is a fantastic role model for young women from the North East, from her academic excellence to her outstanding student leadership,” he added. Pic copyright of UK Parliament/Roger Harris of UK Parliament/Roger Pic copyright United Nations award for The Glebe Stockton’s Youth Youth Council’s Youth Voice Award and The Glebe has made the convention working with the Cleveland Police and A Stockton Borough Primary an integral part of school life with Top class Assembly, made up of Crime Panel to improve links between School has scooped a prestigious each class nominating a rights young people between young people and the Police. champion. Children are also prize for its work to champion rewarded for respecting each the ages of 11 and 25, Copies of the report have been sent to other’s rights and throughout the report all schools, youth clubs, sixth forms delivered a glowing the rights of children. project pupils have taken part in and colleges across Stockton Borough. UNICEF campaigns and raised money The Glebe Primary school achieved the UNICEF Level ‘end of term’ report at a Young people interested in becoming a for charity. Two ‘Rights Respecting Schools Award’ after a three year for Youth representative on the Stockton Youth recent council meeting. project that has seen pupils learn about the United Nations Deputy Headteacher Jan Thompson said: “We are the first Assembly should visit Convention for the Rights of the Child. school in Stockton to achieve this and we are very proud of Highlights of its two-year term include www.stockton.gov.uk/youthassembly the children and staff who continue to demonstrate their Assembly successfully completing the British or call 01642 524987. commitment and enthusiasm for the project.”

PAGE 18 PAGE 19 COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMUNITY SAFETY Keeping our Safer together communities safe Stockton’s public services Across the Tees Valley, public sector work in close partnership partners are working together to to make the Borough a raise awareness about the risk of terrorism and the threat the public safer place for all. face from those who promote it. Stockton’s Local Public Services Board is made up Representatives from Tees Valley councils, Cleveland Police, of representatives of the Borough’s public sector Cleveland Fire Brigade, schools, colleges and universities, organisations and meets regularly with a focus on working among others, come together as part of the Tees Valley together to improve people’s lives. In the coming editions, Prevent Group which meets four times a year. Scrapping metal we will focus on some of the agencies involved. The purpose of the group is to increase knowledge about In this edition we meet Cleveland Fire Brigade’s radicalisation and all forms of terrorism and to look for ways representative District Manager, Steve McCarten. Here, to prevent people from being drawn into extremism. thefts in Stockton Steve explains how partnership working between the Council, Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade is Steven Hume, Chair of the Tees Valley Prevent Group and making Stockton a safer place. Community Safety and Security Manager at Stockton Council, Stockton Council and its Around 5,000 metres of live high voltage Three were issued fixed rate penalty said: “Stockton Council plays a lead role in this group, which “We work closely to deliver safety initiatives to reduce copper cabling has been recklessly notices for failing to supply the relevant works together to spot potential signs of radicalisation, partners are continuing to the risk of fire in people’s homes and in the community,” stolen, costing Northern Powergrid transport paperwork. extremism and terrorism and take necessary action. fight back against metal he said. £600,000 to replace and repair. Two penalty notices were issued for “The group have recently developed a joint action plan, which will thefts that have blighted local “A great example of this is our work we do with the Operation Spark saw the Council, defects affecting vehicle safety, while one be delivered across the Tees Valley to raise awareness and build Thirteen Group and Stockton Council to identify people businesses and residents Cleveland Police, HMRC’s fuel unit and driver was found without motor insurance community confidence. By working together we hope to build who are vulnerable and at risk of house fires. across the Borough. Northern Powergrid join forces in an and an expired provisional licence. confidence among residents so that anyone with concerns will effort to track down those responsible. Police also issued a £300 fixed penalty feel able to report them to the Police.” Thieves have attacked Northern Powergrid’s electricity network 20 times Officers from Cleveland and Durham notice to one vehicle which was 70 per “We work closely to deliver since June 2014, causing power cuts for Specialist Operations Unit carried out cent overweight of a six tonne limit. 5,000 Borough residents. ‘stop and search’ of nine waste carrier safety initiatives to reduce the IS YOUR CHILD vehicles in locations across the Borough. risk of fire in people’s homes” To report an unlicensed scrap metal dealer, contact Stockton Council’s SITTING SAFELY? Trading Standards and Licensing service on 01642 526558. “By sharing information we can then carry out a home Anyone with information about metal thefts can call Cleveland Police’s non- fire safety visit and provide residents with Stockton Council’s Road Safety Team is emergency number 101, Northern Powergrid’s emergency 24-hour number some fire prevention advice. keeping a close eye on the use of child 0800 66 88 77 or the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. “We also work together with the car safety seats. Police and Council to educate people about deliberate fire setting. During a recent roadshow in Teesside Park, they offered Stockton Council’s Head of Housing and Community shoppers the opportunity to receive free advice and checks. “Simple measures such as Stay safe around Protection, Julie Nixon, said: “Around 400 people needlessly encouraging people to dispose of The two day event attracted more than 80 people, who took drown in the UK every year and thousands more suffer injury, rubbish in a responsible way and advantage of the free checks and information on offer. The some life changing, through near-drowning experiences. cutting grass in target areas can help majority of the seats checked were not fitted correctly and water this summer Drowning is also the third highest cause of accidental death of children in the UK. prevent them. needed adjustment to make them safe. The warm weather can make your “We also work closely Road Safety Officer, Peter Fleming, said: “We run these “Though open water may look inviting on a hot summer’s day, to target and tackle roadshows every year and they always prove extremely local stream, beck or river seem it can pose a hazard as the water can often be extremely cold possible deliberate popular with the public. This year was no different – we had like the perfect place to cool off - and can bring on cramps in even the strongest swimmers. fire-setters – it’s all strong interest and were able to give plenty of good advice. There may also be hidden objects lurking beneath the surface. part of the work “It is vitally important motorists make sure youngsters, but residents are being warned “Children, young adults and people under the influence of we do here in and themselves, are correctly restrained whilst travelling in alcohol are among the highest risk groups. We’re encouraging Stockton.” of the dangers that lurk beneath. a vehicle – both for safety and to keep them within the law.” people to enjoy the summer but if they want to go for a swim, Make safety your priority this summer and avoid swimming or to use one of our leisure pools.” For expert advice on seat and stage selection for your child, paddling anywhere other than in purpose-built and supervised If you see someone get into difficulty in the water – reassure visit www.goodeggcarsafety.com swimming pools. them, shout for help and call the emergency services on 999. Or, to arrange a free safety check, call the Road Safety Team Open water may look calm on the surface but there can For more safety information and tips, visit the Royal Life on 01642 526 737 or email [email protected] be strong undercurrents that can pull even the strongest Saving Society UK’s website at www.rlss.org.uk Steve McCarten, District Manager for Cleveland Fire Brigade swimmers under.

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

Winning author Piers Torday with Ingleby Mill Primary pupils, (left to DAY IN right) Josh Lofthouse, Ethan Thomas, Hollie Evans and Savreet Sangha THE LIFE Christine Hutchinson – Collections Officer Every year Preston Park Museum and Grounds attracts thousands of visitors to admire a treasure trove of objects, art and costumes which tell the story of Stockton Borough. While many people will be familiar with the exhibitions, a great deal of work goes on behind the scenes to care for the collection - much of it thanks to the museum’s Collections Officer, Christine Hutchinson and her team. Together, they manage more than 100,000 items covering centuries of art and artefacts relating to Stockton’s history. Celebrating a At the heart of Christine’s work is the development of the museum displays. “The museum is a really exciting and engaging place to visit love of reading Gabrielle Kent delights readers and that’s something we always want to maintain,” she says. with her debut ‘Alfie Bloom’novel “There is something for everyone here. “We aim to refresh the permanent displays with Young bookworms from of the Year’. Ingleby Mill Primary School different exhibits every two to three years and we across the Borough have pupil, Hollie Evans, scooped the ‘Best regularly assess offers of donations to decide if they Review’ award. are suitable for the collection.” been taking part in a Mr Torday, said: “I know from previous From archaeological finds to modern day series of events organised involvement at other regional awards household by Stockton Council to what an impact these events can have appliances, the museum holds an extensive range on young readers, with the wonderful of displays which all require careful attention. One promote a love of reading. emails and letters that follow. The mass participation of local children in this of Christine’s roles is to oversee the recording of Five hundred school pupils recently award puts the power of reading and any newly-acquired objects. “A major part of the job is voted for their favourite book from a limitless possibilities of the imagination Author CJ Busby with Ingleby Mill Primary pupil to look after the collection and make sure each item shortlist of four. All four short-listed Hollie Evans, who won an award for her review of directly into their hands, and it is a we have is recorded accurately,” she adds. authors came to Stockton to meet pupils Deep Amber privilege to be part of that process.” “The collection, whether on display or in the stores, is and talk about their books and the To celebrate World Book Day in March monitored regularly to check for any deterioration and importance of literature. For more information on the exciting a series of events was also held in to see if it needs any specialist attention. ‘The Last Wild’ by Piers Torday came top programme of events on offer in the Stockton Central Library, including an of the poll in the secret ballot and was Borough’s libraries visit “Not all of the artefacts in the museum are on display author session with local fantasy fiction duly crowned ‘Stockton Children’s Book www.stockton.gov.uk/events – we also look after thousands more in our stores writer Gabrielle Kent. that are used for research, temporary displays or to loan to other accredited museums across the UK and sometimes internationally.” History buff? Try Christine, aged 33, has been at Preston Park Museum for just over a year but has always worked in museum collections. She previously worked for Tyne and Wear Heritage Stockton Museums and the Museum of Hartlepool before joining Stockton Council’s Museums Service in 2014. She started Fascinating facts about the history of Stockton-on- with a degree in History from the University of Sunderland Tees can be found at the click of a button thanks to the before completing a postgraduate degree in Museum Heritage Stockton website. Studies at Newcastle University. The website - www.heritage.stockton.gov.uk - captures the early “Working in a museum is something I was always focused on development of the Borough from pre-Roman times, through to Anglo- doing,” she says. “Preston Park is a great museum and I feel Saxon settlements and into modern day. really lucky to work here.” Visitors can also discover the history behind the Borough’s buildings and landmarks and read stories about sporting achievements, prominent local figures and notable contributions to the arts and sciences. To read more about Preston Park The website will be updated regularly with new information. Members Museum and Grounds visit of the community are also invited to submit their own stories and www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk photographs through a dedicated contributions page.

PAGE 22 PAGE 23 StocktonARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE Cycling Festival ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE Friday 10 – Sunday 12 July Family Fun Day & Racing Stockton High Street and Stockton Riverside Sunday 12 July, from 10am Come and explore our exciting Events Village, jam-packed Our three day celebration of all full of cycling and sporting activities, loads of cycling themed things cycling returns bigger entertainment and thrilling stunts and displays. The village is and better than ever! perfectly positioned for you to watch the Stockton Grand Prix or take part in the StreetVelodrome or Ride Stockton. Evening Town Centre Racing Friday 10 July, 6 - 9pm RideStockton Stockton High Street 1pm start Our RideStockton event is the perfect family cycling event. You won’t believe how close Taking in our exciting new High Street, including dipping through the brand new fountain, riders will be encouraged to the action you can get! and entertained all the way round.

Watch elite cyclists race around our High Street Stockton Grand Prix Course in this fast-paced adrenaline-fueled event. 1pm start The race is part of the British Cycling Elite Circuit series and will be filmed and broadcast on Eurosport. Watch some of the country’s best cyclists as they line up alongside the Events Village, along with their entourage of team vehicles and police escort as they depart from the Riverside and compete on a challenging course. Stockton Sportive The race is part of the British Cycling Elite Road Race series Saturday 11 July, from 8am and will be filmed and broadcast on Eurosport. Stockton Riverside StreetVelodrome Come and join us for a great cycling challenge. An event offering cyclists of all abilities a choice of The world’s only pop-up track returns to Stockton Cycling rides from 32 to 100 miles, all with a ‘Tour de France’ Festival . Watch professionals and local amateurs navigate style escorted start. Each of the rides will head out their way round this thrilling knockout challenge. across the region taking in beautiful scenery including This is the only time this exciting and inspiring attraction visits the breathtaking North Yorkshire Moors. the North East this year! Prices range from £15 – 25 depending on your chosen route. www.stockton.gov.uk/cyclingsunday

For more information, including entry, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/cyclingfestival

pcm0986.indd 1 11/05/2015 09:35 ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE BIFF 2015 to be bigger and better than ever! Performers from a whole into a carnival of colours and culture. world and we hope to take our audience host of countries including Taking place from Friday 7 August to on an exciting journey through dance Saturday 15 August, each festival concert and music and give them an Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and event will build the story of the unforgettable experience.” China, Serbia and the ‘Two Feathers in the Wind’ culminating In the run up to the festival, organisers in specially choreographed Gala are calling on schools and community Philippines are preparing Performances – which will involve all of groups to get involved by creating art to bring the annual the festival participants. work, jewellery and crafts inspired Billingham International Olga Maloney, Artistic Director, says: “We by the ‘Dos Plumas al Viento’ theme. are extremely excited for the first time to Contributions will be displayed at the Folklore Festival to life. have the ‘Dos Plumas al Viento’ festival festival in August. This year’s theme – ‘Dos Plumas al theme, which will weave through all the Viento’ or ‘Two Feathers in the Wind’ festival concerts and activities. For more information on the – will feature a spectacular mix of “We have a great line-up of fantastic BIFF 2015 programme visit dance, music, poetry and visual arts as dance companies representing different Billingham town centre is transformed www.billinghamfestival.co.uk styles and cultures from all over the BILLINGHAM PARK GAINS PLENTY OF HEART The transformation of one of Billingham’s Stockton Council’s Head of Economic Growth and Development most popular parks is nearing completion Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “The new developments will benefit all users of the park and with summer fast thanks to a £200,000 project which has approaching John Whitehead Park is an attractive leisure refurbished its central area. space for all generations. Whether you are visiting for play, sport or relaxation – the newly improved park has something Stockton Council’s ‘Heart of the Park’ project, funded by Able UK, to offer everyone.” has provided the finishing touches to the overall regeneration of John Whitehead Park. Able UK, which has headquarters in Billingham, committed the funding for the ‘Heart of the Park’ project via the Landfill The improvements include the installation of new street Communities Fund. furniture, signage, the creation of an events area and a seating area around the cafe. More equipment for children has been Stockton Council is also keen to hear from residents who may added to the popular play area. have any old photographs of John Whitehead Park, as they could help to build the picture of the park’s history. The works complement the improvements made as part of the £320,000 ‘Sport in the Park’ scheme in August last year which Anyone interested should contact the Council’s Heritage saw the refurbishment of the park’s tennis courts, skate and Development Officer, John Beeley, on 01642 528843 or BMX areas. email [email protected]

PAGE 26 PAGE 27 ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE SIRF CARNIVAL On 1 August, SIRF Carnival 15 will bring Instant Light to life SIRF15 gets ready with an explosion of colourful costume and carnival beats as schools and community groups from across the Borough show off their beautiful creations. Join John Walker and Vesta as they lead Stockton’s largest community celebration of the to light up Stockton year along Stockton High Street to the Riverside. The finishing touches are being put to the music, Are you sitting comfortably? SIRF15 has an illuminating story to tell you! choreography and giant puppet designs that will lead the parade. Local people can also work alongside six residents Preparations for the festival are well under way – here’s a sneak preview of what to expect. artists to construct the amazing parade costumes at a series of creative workshops. SIRF’s Artistic Director, Jan Doherty, said: There’s still time to take part in the Carnival. To find out INSTANT LIGHT “SIRF15 has everything you would expect more, contact Lyndsey Stephenson on 01642 527696 or email – four days packedAT withURIN the best street The main focus of SIRF15 will be Instant FE G [email protected] theatre, circus, dance and music but this Light, inspired by the book of the same name year it will also celebrate the imaginative and by Sara Maitland and presented in episodes bold redevelopment of Stockton High Street over the festival weekend. FEATURING and Stockton’s rich heritage. A weekend Instant Light is the magical tale of how of adventure is in store, with themes of Stockton became a festival town – starting pioneering, imagination, diversity, community with the historic fact of John Walker’s spirit, love and a real sense of place. It’s a T H L L invention of the friction match and weaving fantastic programme and we’re really looking E R E THERE’S A STORY TO TELL through it the magic of the circus to create forward to seeing you there.” E T ’S TO a mythical version of how the festival might A STORY have come about.

THE CIRCUS COMES TO TOWN SIRF15 begins on Thursday 30 July when the circus comes to sailing into town, arriving on Stockton’s Riverside on a fabulously embellished boat! The troupe will lead the audience to BoO, a remarkable aerial trapeze show by Cirk Vost which talks about the rhythm, flow and the relationship between humans, performed on an extraordinary structure of 368 assembled bamboo poles.

SIRF15 takes place from PRACTICE Thursday 30 July to Sunday 2 August and will offer MAKES PERFECT an exciting mix of small From circus troupes and ballet dancers to trapeze artists and and large scale shows for skilled jugglers, SIRF15 will see a whole host of spectacular performers bring Stockton Town Centre to life. people of all ages. Newcastle-based dance company Ballet Lorent has been busy The Instant Light book is creating a show especially for SIRF which tells the story of on sale at the Rediscover the invention of the friction match through a meeting of John Shop, Stockton High Street Walker and Vesta from the visiting circus. and Preston Hall Museum The company has been working tirelessly to rehearse the Shop for just £5. show, which is set to be a romantic and playful mix of dance, acrobatics and pyrotechnics. Look out for more on A fantastic landscape of rivers of fire is being crafted for SIRF15 in the next edition Trinity Green by French fire artisans, Cie Carabosse. The of Stockton News and for beautiful installation will open on Saturday and Sunday with further information visit additional features and pyrotechnics to make an extraordinary and very different finale. www.sirf.co.uk

PAGE 28 PAGE 29 ADULTS SERVICES ADULTS SERVICES Uma puts summer Lanark Close Benefits From New Gym Facility learning in the picture! Residents at Lanark Close in Stockton are getting active Summer is just around the corner and it is the and reaping the benefits thanks perfect time to pick up a new skill or hobby to to a new gym. enjoy the whole year round. Lanark Close provides short break and respite services to people aged between 18 and 65 with learning disabilities. Stockton Council’s Learning and Skills service has a range of courses available from basic car maintenance to sewing, learning a language to mastering new technology. The idea for having exercise equipment came directly from people accessing the service, who mentioned that Uma Mannan, from Yarm, began her learning journey they would like to become more active. last September when she enrolled on a ten week photography course. A treadmill, rowing machine and exercise bike are just some of the facilities on offer and those using the service The 34-year-old learnt the basics and enjoyed are embracing the opportunity to improve their fitness. a later intermediate course so much that she plans to undertake the advanced course in Lanark Close manager, Wendy MacDonald, said: “The September this year. harsh weather in winter makes it difficult for some clients to get outside and exercise so we are delighted at Uma has benefited greatly from the courses, which the arrival of our own gym here at Lanark Close. combine classroom-based learning with trips out to I’m sure it will be very popular and bring great benefits. various locations such as the Tees Barrage and Stockton High Street – all under expert tuition. “I would like to thank all of the staff, the people who use “I’ve found the course extremely interesting and I’m the service and their families for their support in raising the Lanark Close residents Ian Connelly (left) and Brian Shaw try out learning all the time,” she said. “The tutor is funds for the gym, as well as Tees Active for their helpful the new gym equipment, watched by manager Wendy MacDonald very experienced and I’m also picking up some guidance on the required equipment.” great hints and tips from the other students.” Uma plans to turn her hobby into employment in the future as her skills continue to grow. Here are some What changes took effect from 1 April, 2015? of Uma’s best photographs so far! Care and support A comprehensive information and advice service must be in place is changing A new emphasis on wellbeing will be introduced We will have new responsibilities for early The Care Act 2014 introduces major intervention and prevention adult social care reforms affecting Eligibility for social care will change the duties of local authorities, the There will be changes to assessments and who we rights of those in need of care and will assess support and their carers, and the care Adults with eligible needs will have a legal right to Personal Budgets and request for Direct Payments and support funding system. A diverse range of quality care providers must ‘Care and support’ is the term we use to describe the help some be available adults need to live as well as possible with any illness or disability Deferred payment arrangements will change Summer workshops in photography are open they may have. It can include help with things like washing, dressing, eating, getting out and about and keeping in touch New legal duties to safeguard adults will be in place for enrolment now with a wide range of other with friends or family. Better planning of the transition between children’s and adult services courses available. To view the full list visit The Act is being introduced in two phases – social care reforms www.stockton.gov.uk/adulteducation took effect from 1 April 2015 and will be followed by funding Unpaid carers will be formally recognised as having reform which will take effect 1 April, 2016. their own needs Or, if there is a course you think Stockton Council’s Learning and Skills service should If you receive care and support, or you support someone as introduced contact our information helpline on run, let us know on 01642 527904 or email: a carer and would like to find out more, contact our First 01642 524500. Contact Team on 01642 527764. Alternatively, if you have a Further information is also available on Stockton Council’s [email protected] general enquiry regarding the Care Act and changes being website, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/care-act

PAGE 30 PAGE 31 HEALTH AND WELLBEING HEALTH AND WELLBEING The School Nurse Service team Stepping out in Stockton Why not explore our beautiful Borough and improve your fitness at the same time? Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. There is a wide range of ways to get out and about, from self- guided walks to walking groups. If you would like to take part in a guided walk the ‘Stepping out in Stockton’ group provides a series of weekly and fortnightly guided group walks ideal for making friends and improving fitness at the same time. The group is a partnership between the Sustrans Active Travel Hub and Stockton Council and offers a variety of walks available across the Borough. The majority are suitable for beginners, pushchairs and wheelchairs. The walks last approximately one hour and usually finish with a friendly cup of tea or coffee. All walks are accessible by local transport, and are free of charge. Nursing young For more information please contact the Hub on 01642 803 441 or [email protected] For routes and maps outlining self-guided walks people’s health and heritage trails across the Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/walks

We continue to bring you news of School nurses will offer a range of help The service will also work closely with how Stockton Council, NHS health and support, including measuring the the More Life Family Weight Management Why not try these sugar partners and other organisations height and weight of children, screening Service to support children, young people Simple sugar are working together to tackle hearing and vision and supporting the and their families to achieve a healthy swap ideas instead? development of health education in weight and enjoy long-term health benefits. health inequalities through swaps can schools. They will also hold drop in The More Life Family Weight the Borough’s Joint Health and clinics both in schools and in community Wellbeing Strategy 2013-2018. Management Service provides a broad venues where parents, carers and young service to all children aged five to 17 make a In this issue we take a look at the people can discuss their concerns in a and their families who are struggling work of the new Stockton-on- friendly and confidential setting. Every to maintain a healthy weight. It offers a Tees Children and Young People’s secondary school (including special series of fun lifestyle and physical activity difference! Public Health School Nursing schools) and its cluster of primary sessions and comprehensive behaviour Service and More Life Family schools will have access to a named change support, including a weight It’s surprising just how much sugar there school nurse and the service will be management programme for teenagers. is in some of the things we give our kids. Weight Management Service. provided all year round. The service will also work with schools From their cereal in the morning through The new service was launched in It means children and young people to educate children about the benefits of April following a consultation on health to their puddings in the evening, not to across the Borough will have access to healthy eating. mention the sugary drinks and snacks – it services for Stockton’s young residents early help and advice about their health in which parents and carers, children Parents of 0-17 year olds who are all adds up! concerns at the time they need it. themselves overweight and wish to role- and young people, local residents, and The highest contributors to added sugar in Alison Thurston, Clinical Lead for model a healthier lifestyle to their children other interested parties were all asked the diet of four to 10-year-olds are: for their views. Stockton School Nurse Service, said: “We will also be able to access support through are looking forward to developing good the parent-only programme. 30% from drinks (including working relationships with head teachers, school staff and other agencies. We are 16% from soft drinks) very excited about being more visible To find out more about 29% from cereal and cereal within schools and the local community and more accessible to children, young the service, or to join one products (mainly from biscuits, people and their families.” of More Life’s clubs, visit cakes and breakfast cereals) The service is currently working to www.more-life.co.uk 22% from sugar, preserves and provide more ways for young people confectionery to get in touch to discuss their health To talk to the school nurse concerns, including by telephone, text service, call 01642 606591. 12% from milk and milk products Members of the More Life Family and drop-in sessions. Weight Management team www.nhs.uk/change4life PAGE 32 For more advice and helpful tips, visit PAGE 33 ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

Pictured (left to right) at Nursery Gardens are Stockton Council’s Regeneration and Support Officer, Jo Parker, Dunelm Homes MD Phil Brown, Stockton Council’s Head of Housing and Community Protection, Big plans, bright future! Julie Nixon, Thirteen Group’s Rodger Till and Dunelm Homes Sales Director, Colin Willetts. Stockton’s super-efficient street lighting LED lighting units while all street lighting columns over 25 years old will also be replaced. The columns are being programme is progressing at a pace and manufactured by Thornaby-based Valmont Stainton Limited. the second of the programme’s seven The new LED lights have a longer lifespan, use less energy phases is now well under way. than the current bulbs, are fully recyclable and contain no The replacement of the lamps and columns in the Mandale and toxic materials, making them more environmentally friendly. Victoria ward has started, where more than 500 lanterns have Works to replace the streetlights in Billingham South also been converted so far. The total number of converted lanterns started last month and are due to begin in Village and across the Borough to date is 1,265 and they are joined by 2,742 Grangefield wards before the end of July. newly installed columns. An average energy saving of 67 per For further details, and to find out when the programme cent has been generated by the replacements! will be coming to your area, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ In a period of just over three years, the Council’s £14million streetlighting investment will see 28,000 lanterns replaced with modern MORE THAN JUST Stockton Council’s Keith Mathews prepares to plant an oak seedling BRICKS AND MORTAR

A multi-million pound regeneration scheme has seen bungalows were bought by Tees Valley Housing for social rent a Stockton Town Centre site transformed with the and for sale (through rent-to-buy, shared equity as well as construction of 110 high quality homes. shared ownership options and private sale). “Housing developments are about far more than just bricks The £30million Nursery Gardens development is situated off and mortar,” said Stockton Council’s Head of Housing and Spring Street, just a short walk from the Town Centre. Community Protection, Julie Nixon. “Creating clean, green and It is a partnership between Stockton Council, Dunelm Homes safe communities across the Borough is at the heart of our (Esh Group), the Homes and Communities Agency and Tees regeneration schemes. We are delighted to see the completion Valley Housing Group, part of the Thirteen Group. of Nursery Gardens and the creation of a happy place to call home for those living here for years to come.” Dunelm Homes has built the new properties of which 68, consisting of a mix of two-bedroom flats and two, three and For more information on housing regeneration across the four-bedroom houses, have been for private sale by Dunelm. Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/environmentandhousing The remaining two, three and four bedroomed houses and Conserving Are you a Landlord? As the number of ‘accidental’ In addition to the Stockton Rental landlords within the Borough Standard, the Council is encouraging increases it’s time to ask landlords to take advantage of our ancient yourself if you are one of them. two free services it delivers – the Many people who would not Landlord Accreditation Scheme and consider themselves landlords, the Tenant Referencing Service. are in fact just that. The Landlord Accreditation scheme woodland offers free property advertising and If you receive payment from friends or access to training and advice from family living in a property you own or housing professionals, whilst the The project has involved the removal of woodland, the introduction of greater A major project to help protect who are staying in your home short or Tenant Referencing Services assists non-native conifer trees such as pines, numbers of deciduous trees will boost the and conserve native ancient long term, you are a private landlord. landlords in checking prospective spruces and firs, which were planted in local flora and fauna, improve habitats for woodland in Stockton Borough As a landlord you are required tenants before letting their properties. the 1960s, because they were limiting the animals, birds and insects and provide to provide a safe and healthy is a step nearer completion. growth of the native deciduous forest trees. opportunities to open up different areas of environment for occupants. To help For more information about the the park for the public to enjoy. Stockton Rental Standard or the In their place the woodland will be you achieve this, Stockton Council Stockton Council has been working help available to private landlords replanted with native deciduous trees For further information about the has launched the Stockton Rental in partnership with the Forestry visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ such as oak, ash, elm and birch. scheme visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ Standard, a quick and easy guide Commission on a scheme to encourage privatelandlords the regeneration of Tilery and Brierley wynyardwoodlandpark outlining the legal and best practices As well as restoring much of Tilery and Woods within Wynyard Woodland Park. expected of private landlords. Brierley Wood to its native deciduous

PAGE 34 PAGE 35 ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING Something fishy happening in Thornaby Green Waste Collections 2015 The fortnightly kerbside collections of green waste Here’s a reminder of the are under way and will continue until October. items that can be placed in

Please place your garden waste directly into your green waste bags. your reusable green waste sack and leave it Pupils from Christ the King RC Primary School We’re happy to accept: in Thornaby show off the yellow fish plaques alongside your recycling waste ready for collection. Grass cuttings With your help we recycled over 5,700 tonnes of green waste Leaves More than 100 yellow fish The project aims to plumbing in homes and businesses, last year. Replacement or additional green waste sacks can be Twigs and small branches have appeared in unusual reduce pollution to and the misuse of road gullies, can purchased from Stockton, Billingham and Thornaby Customer water courses from have on the local aquatic environment. Service Centres for £2 per sack. You can also buy a roll of 26 Weeds and plants places in Thornaby! urban areas and these The Living Waterways project is a clear sacks for £3. streets have been chosen Hedge trimmings The fish are on plaques bearing the partnership between Tees Valley Please ensure you have your green waste sack, recycling boxes as there has been a history of pollution words ‘DON’T POLLUTE – DRAINS Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency and bags out before 7am on the morning of your collection Sorry we’re unable to accept: issues in nearby Stainsby Beck. TO RIVER’, which have been installed and Northumbrian Water and is being and remove them as soon as you can once they have been The plaques encourage people to think delivered with the national Connect next to road gullies in and around emptied. Please be considerate and do not place them in Soil Eltham Crescent as part of the Living about what they put down surface Right Campaign. For more information a way that will cause obstruction to other people. water drains and highlight the negative go to www.connectright.org.uk Tree trunks Waterways project. Green waste collections will continue throughout the impact that misconnected waste water summer with Red Week collections ending 28 September Large branches and Blue Week collections ending 5 October. SL0076 Stockton News Advert 2015 190x133mm RS.pdf 1 30/03/2015 16:14 THE ADVERT BELOW IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY OUR PARTNERS AT NORTHUMBRIAN WATER To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling

You’ll need to provide us with: The road location, number or street name Pothole Any landmarks to help identify the exact area It would also be helpful if you could specify the type of defect you are reporting, such as: Stolen or missing paving slabs problem? Broken paving slabs Loose or rocking pavement Uneven pavement surfaces C Pothole

M Dangerous pavement

Y Report Your report will be sent to a Care For Your Area technician

CM for investigation. An inspection will take place within five working days. MY If the defect requires attention, it will either be made safe on CY it online! the spot as an interim repair or added to a repair programme. CMY Potholes can create problems for both Repairs are prioritised according to a number of factors such K as the depth, size and location of the defect and also the pedestrians and vehicles but Stockton volume of the traffic in the area (either pedestrian or vehicle). Council’s new website is making it Each issue is given a unique reference number, which you easier to report them. can use to get an update on any action taken.

It’s easy to report damaged roads, footpaths or potholes. Fill in a simple form on the Council’s website – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline or call the Council’s contact centre on 01642 391959.

PAGE 36 PAGE 37 STRONG COMMUNITIES STRONG COMMUNITIES

One small step for We love this drawing by Faith, age 9, from Yarm! Such a great Stockton’s older people way to show what she Do you know an older person who is lonely, isolated or loves about Yarm and SPOTLIGHT vulnerable? The Community Service Volunteers Retired why she is Positively & Senior Volunteer Programme (CSV-RSVP) can help. Stockton-on-Tees. ON… We think there are so many good things to be shouting about The ‘One Small Step’ project uses trained volunteers to in Stockton Borough and it seems that many of you feel the run a befriending service which offers companionship and same way! opportunities to take part in social activities across Stockton. We’ve had a fantastic response since the campaign got under Stockton Council’s Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise way and we wanted to share a few more of the wonderful Health Initiative Programme provided the funding to launch the contributions we’ve had recently. project last year. Your submissions continue to flood in. Please keep them Now, CSV-RSVP is pleased to announce that this has led to a coming – whether you’ve taken a great picture, written a lottery grant of over £262,000 which will help to develop the poem or song, or simply have a story to tell about our area - Leanne T sent in this Our regular “Spotlight On” feature ‘eggcellent’ psst… befriending service, build partnerships and improve older we want to see and hear about it! highlights the work of some of Stockton’s themed Easter picture. people’s lives across To find out more and to get involved, visit voluntary, community and social enterprise Stockton Borough. www.positivelystocktontees.co.uk organisations carrying out highly For more information or to commendable work across the Borough. volunteer, contact Trevor Redfern on 01642 733915 The Stockton Welfare Advice Network (SWAN) was first or trevorredfern@ launched in October 2013. Funded by the Big Lottery, SWAN Jason Watkin sent in this btinternet.com brings together local advice agencies to work in partnership awesome photo of the colourful to improve access to advice services for the benefit of Our friends at Apollo Arts spread fountain: “Love the town always Stockton Borough residents. some Spring cheer among the have – it’s great to see positivity people of Stockton by giving out free and the new High Street is going The project is managed through a partnership of nine local Last Night of the daffodils to anyone and everyone to be a catalyst for being a great agencies with Stockton District & Advice & Information they met on their travels. “We met town for generations to love.” Service as lead. All partners have experience in the Proms supports forces some lovely people and saw some provision of advice services and/or work within the voluntary very smiley faces,” they said! sector. They are: Stockton Borough Council, Age UK, Stockton’s Baptist Tabernacle is gearing up to host a song Julie Chapman is a big fan of the regenerated Catalyst, Harbour, Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind, spectacular in support of SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Stockton Town Centre: ‘How wonderful to Tadea, Thirteen, and Thrive. and Families Association), which provides lifelong support see all the people around the fountains and to our forces and their families. A key element of SWAN is its advice website, which enables hear the laughter of the children as they try Gorgeous morning the people of Stockton Borough to get the right advice, at the The ‘Last Night of the Proms’ themed evening, which will to dodge the water! It lifted my spirits just in #yarm for my right time from the right place. The site can be accessed at celebrate SSAFA’s 130th anniversary, will take place at the pausing for a few minutes there as I dashed post run walk. www.stocktonadvice.org.uk Tabernacle from 7pm on Friday 26 June. around on my lunch break.’ Jonathan Oakley The site includes: It will feature performances from the likes of the Stockton Information to help resolve everyday problems Male Voice Choir, Durham Constabulary Male Voice including issues with benefits, housing and debt Choir, Cleveland Community Band and the Tabernacle Boy Drummers. Links to the best advice websites in one place Sample letters and other tools to help people resolve Headlining the event will be bassist and compere ‘How about an opinion of someone who came from another country? their problems Eddie Gratton and soprano Anna Maria Jackson. Well, I am Portuguese and, following the economic and social crisis A directory of local welfare services if further help Tickets cost £12 and include light refreshments, a that hit Portugal, I moved to the UK in search of better conditions is needed programme and Union Jack flag. They are on sale at the to create my son, Pedro 11 years. When I left my house had some Rediscover Stockton shop in Stockton High Street and the The site is specifically tailored to the people of Stockton Borough contacts and a lot of will, and God brought me to Stockton-on- Tabernacle itself. and features local and national advice resources, ranging Tees. Can you imagine what is to change a life, including 14 year from benefits to health, tax, consumer and relationships. The For details of more Armed Forces Week events, see our a marriage to another country? Not easy .... believe me... comprehensive information covered in the SWAN website What’s On guide on page 45 ‘In Stockton we found everything, good people, charitable people, includes factsheets, frequently asked questions, calculators and concerned and available, I found a Council with the doors open and links to local and national advice websites. it really was there, and has always been, really like to live here so I’ll Since its launch SWAN has also welcomed over 20 local say that I am indeed happy since 2013 and we will continue here... advice agencies to join the network and they feature in the I’m Not a Stocktonian from birth, but it’s certainly in my heart... website directory. ‘Thank you for everything and I hope that I can be useful for all Marie Kerr, SWAN Project Manager at SDAIS, said: “Our you Stocktonians in the future... website gives people the tools to help themselves but also ‘God bless you all...’ from Abel Riberio improves access to advice services in Stockton Borough by ensuring residents have better, up to date, information about the advice services that are available to them.” www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk For more information about SWAN call Marie Kerr on /positivelystocktonontees 01642 626102 or email [email protected] An initiative supported by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council /positivelySOT Positively Stockton-on-Tees PAGE 38 PAGE 39 STRONG COMMUNITIES STRONG COMMUNITIES #theloudestwhisper It started with one man and a big idea. Worried about how the Channel 4 series ‘Benefits Street’ would misrepresent the Borough, Mike McGrother decided to give a voice to the people of Stockton-on-Tees, so they could tell it as it really is. Mike’s idea was to take a giant game of Chinese whispers across the Borough to showcase this beautiful place. In the true spirit of psst… Mike knew that many quiet voices can make a lot of noise so on 13 and 14 March the whisper spread (with the help of three brilliant clowns and a Caravan of Love!) and thousands of you joined in. Oh, and while we played we thought it might be a good idea to make our own film of the fun. So why not visit www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk/events/theloudestwhisper to watch the full story.

PAGE 40 PAGE 41 YOUR COUNCIL YOUR COUNCIL YOUR COUNCIL The example below shows the huge savings that Your Community Bank can Simply Spend offer on the purchase of household items such as a gas cooker. and Save Gas Cooker - price £279.99 Available with high Buy with low cost Households across cost credit from High credit from Your Street lenders: Community Bank Stockton Borough Weekly payment £11.71 (based on a loan Number of weeks 52 of £300) Must be purchased with Weekly payment £6.97 are continuing to care package Number of weeks 52 Total payable £608.92 Total payable £362.44 Here we bring you our regular of places to Egglescliffe School and It was also agreed that the existing update on the consultations primary school admission zones in arrangements should instead be looked at feel the impact of Ingleby Barwick. in the context of the Borough-wide review To learn more, call in at the Your Community Bank (Tees being carried out by the Council. of school admissions, which will come Credit Union) base at Stratford House, Ramsgate, Stockton, As a result of the views expressed, the into effect from 2017/18 onwards. welfare reforms. open between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday. Alternatively, School admissions proposals were not taken forward and the existing arrangements were retained. The And Stockton Council and its partners in the voluntary and call 01642 941911 or visit www.teescreditunion.co.uk More than 850 responses were received Thank you to everyone who Council will instead work with Egglescliffe community sector continue to work together to protect the during the recent extended consultation contributed their views. School to ensure it can accommodate in most vulnerable. on proposals to change the allocation zone applicants in 2016. One of the ways in which they are helping is through a new scheme to access low cost credit to buy a range of goods. Households in Stockton Borough can take advantage of the loans scheme, which will offer value for money products while also covering delivery and installation costs. On the register! The scheme is an innovative partnership between Your Community Bank (Tees Credit Union) and Stockton Council. Did you know that Stockton FURTHER HELP AND ADVICE Five Lamps Anyone living or working in the Borough can apply, especially IS AVAILABLE FROM: those struggling to access High Street credit. Website: Borough has its very own www.fivelamps.org.uk Stockton Council “Even if you have been refused credit elsewhere we may be Call: 01642 608316 register office where you can able to help,” said Your Community Bank manager, Diane Website: www.stockton.gov. uk/benefitchanges The Money Advice Service celebrate your marriage or Patterson. “Many people think there is no alternative but there Call the Welfare Rights Website: is – it’s called ‘simply spend and save’.” www.moneyadviceservice. civil partnership ceremony? Service: 01642 526141 org.uk Clients will be able to request a loan for a variety of essential The Nightingale Suite is an ideal venue to host your happy Call the Housing Options 0300 500 5000 products such as washing machines, fridges and carpets and Call: occasion with its light, sophisticated and airy atmosphere Service: 01642 528389 agree payment plans to suit different budgets. StepChange Debt Charity providing the perfect backdrop to your special day. OTHER EXTERNAL The loan scheme also includes: Website: David Jones and Louise Johnson, from Thornaby, are AGENCIES: www.stepchange.org planning to celebrate their marriage ceremony there Assistance in setting up a basic bank account if you do Stockton District Advice and Call: 0800 138 1111 later this year. not already have one Happy couple Louise Johnson and David Jones are Information Service shown around by Ceremonies Officer, Anita Smith National Debtline David said: “We chose the Nightingale Suite for our Rounding up of the loan repayments so that a little bit Call: 0844 4111 444 Website: wedding as it is such a beautiful room and we are very extra goes into a savings account which can be released or 0300 3300 650 www.nationaldebtline.co.uk much looking forward to getting married in there.” when the loan is repaid or continue to be built up to help For appointments call: Call: 0808 8084000 with future expenses 01642 633877 Based at Nightingale House on Balaclava Street in Stockton, the Register Office also offers a range of other services to residents including: Registering a birth Setting out our big plans Registering a death and bereavement services Marriage and civil partnership ceremonies In March Stockton’s councillors The updated plan will seek to protect the vulnerable, promote equality of opportunity, Citizenship ceremonies agreed the updated Council Plan develop strong and healthy communities Naming ceremonies for the next three years. and create economic prosperity. Renewal of vows ceremonies The plan sets out the overall ambitions of the To find out more about Stockton Council’s For more information - visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ Council as well the main priorities it hopes ambitious plans for the Borough visit registeroffice email [email protected] to deliver. www.stockton.gov.uk/councilplan or call 01642 527720.

PAGE 42 PAGE 43 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON Preston Park Pedlar Armed Forces Week Date Sunday 7 June Date Monday 22 June - Thursday 25 June Time 11am – 12.30pm Location Stockton High Street Location The Hub, 17 Bridge Road, Come and show your support during national Armed Forces Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3AA Week as we honour service personnel from the past and This free guided cycle ride departs from The Hub in Stockton current serving officers. Town Centre and heads out towards Preston Park. Monday 22 June, Flag Raising Ceremony, 10.15am – 10.35am, A look at what’s going on across Stockton from May to July 2015. The events listed are subject to change. We reserve the right WHAT’S ON The ride is classed as an Easy Rider and is a gentle ride, ideal Stockton Town Hall. This is just a taster so for more information about these events to alter or cancel any event. for returning cyclists and families. and for a full list visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events. Thursday 25 June, Armed Forces Day, 9.30am – 3.00pm, including This is just one of many guided cycle rides The Hub is running Open Air Service 11.45am – 12.15pm, Stockton High Street. MAY over the summer. Visit www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com for Thursday 25 June, Royal Electronic and Mechanical Engineers more information. Freedom Parade, 2.30pm – 3.15pm, starting at the Dairy Car Park, Stockton Town Centre. Farmers’ Market Ka-Pow Sci-Fi Market To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events Date Saturday 30 May Time 9am – 2pm and Family Fun Day Location Stockton High Street Date Saturday 6 June Time 9am - 5pm A trusted favourite bringing you fresh produce, seasonal foods, Location Stockton High Street quality drinks and delightful goods from across the region. Great local food and drink, sourced from great local providers. A sci-fi themed fun day and market taking place across Stockton High Street. Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events for more information. Check out the specialist traders in the marquee on the High Street, selling a range of TV and film related toys, action figures and collectables. Costumed characters will be out in force across the town and Wellington Square will host a mysterious series of events, while Silver Street is transformed Continental Market into a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Date Wednesday 10 – Saturday 13 June Time 10am – 5pm To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events Location Stockton High Street Sample delights from a wide range of countries, a huge selection of delectable tasty goods, handcrafted authentic Chic Vintique Market gifts and clothing, sold by traders in traditional dress. Date Saturday 4 July Come along and experience stunning world flavours on your Time 10am – 4pm doorstep. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events Location Stockton High Street Will it be a new vintage item for your wardrobe or some stylish retro home wares? Find your treasure at our ever popular Chic Vintique Market and then enjoy the entertainment and refreshments in our vintage tearooms. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

JUNE Crossing the Tees: A Book Festival for the Tees Valley ParkMade Bobbin Lace Making Fire Engine and Date Saturday 6 – Saturday 20 June Date Saturday 6 June Location Various libraries and venues across Stockton-on- Vintage Vehicle Show Time 10am – 4pm Tees, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Darlington Date Saturday 27 – Sunday 28 June Location Preston Park Museum and Grounds Turning a page and moving into its second year, the Crossing Time 11am – 5pm Join the talented Gil Dye and discover the intricate and the Tees book festival is back and bigger than ever. Location Preston Park Museum and Grounds beautiful technique of traditional bobbin lace making. Learn One of the country’s major rallies of preserved vehicles returns. The festival combines exciting authors suitable for all ages, more about the history of the craft and make your own piece creative writing, poetry and performance which will fuel your of lace to take home with you. Discover the history of commercial vehicles, tractors and farm vehicles, and of course fire engines at this perfect family event. inspiration and celebration of the written word. This is just one in a series of ParkMade workshops that are You can also enjoy vehicle themed entertainment including As part of the festival ARC in Stockton will be hosting a special taking place this year. For full information, including how to the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Stunt Team and Swamp Thing’s literature themed Film Festival celebrating some of the great book the sessions, visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk Monster Truck or explore our auto-jumble stalls and trade books that have transferred to the silver screen. To find out stands. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/vintage more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

PAGE 44 PAGE 45 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON Yarm Farmers’ Market Date Sunday 12 July Castle Eden, Turf to Surf – Time 8.30am - 2.30pm Location Yarm High Street Guided Cycle Ride On the second Sunday of every month Yarm Farmers’ Market Date Sunday 26 July offers a wide range of fresh, locally sourced food and goods. Time 10.30am – 2pm To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events Location Visitors’ Centre Our partners at The Hub will be venturing out on this free guided cycle ride which departs from Wynyard Woodland Park and heads out through Castle Eden taking in a coastal stretch along the way. This ride is classed a Hub Ride, which is medium paced and covers 20 miles or over. This is just one of many Guide Cycle Rides The Hub is running over the summer. Visit www.thehubstockton.wordpress.com for more information.

Mayor’s Sunday Service Date Sunday 12 July Time 9.30am – 12.30pm Location Stockton Parish Church Stockton Cycling Festival The Borough’s residents are invited to meet and greet the Date Friday 10 – Sunday 12 July new Civic Mayor at the annual Mayor’s Sunday Service. This Location Stockton High Street and Stockton Riverside outdoor celebration will include music and entertainment Friday - Watch. Saturday - Enter. Sunday - Join in. from churches all across the Borough and guests will include Stockton Cycling Festival returns bigger and better than ever representatives from the Armed Forces, the Church and other with something for everyone to see, take part in and enjoy. Civic representatives from across the region. Stockton and Darlington Whether you’re a huge fan of cycling or a family hoping to There will also be food available and a number of activities for get more active this summer, we guarantee you will find young people to take part in. Golf Week something to keep you entertained over the three day festival. Date Monday 27 July – Saturday 1 August For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events For more information, including how to enter the Sportive, Time Tee times from 10am – 2pm SteetVelodrome and Ride Stockton events, visit (Tee times will be allocated when booking) www.stockton.gov.uk/cyclingfestival Golf Week tees off for the sixth time and this year it’s bigger and better than ever. Bringing together six top class golf venues across Stockton-on-Tees and Darlington and offering single and four ball competitions throughout the week, players can enter the whole six days or choose individual days to play. There are six stunning courses and exciting days of competition to get involved with. For more information, including booking details, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/golfweek

There’s lots more going on at your local arts and entertainment venues – simply visit their websites or call: Kiddiwinks’ Market ARC visit www.arconline.co.uk tel 01642 525199 Billingham Forum visit www.forumtheatrebillingham. Date Saturday 18 July co.uk tel 01642 552663 Time 10am – 4pm Location Stockton High Street Georgian Theatre visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk Start the school holidays at the Kiddiwinks’ Market where tel 01642 674115 you’ll find all the must have things for your little darlings. Join Like us on Facebook facebook.com/stocktoncouncil us for free children’s activities throughout the day, teddy bear’s picnic, story corner, face painting and lots more. Follow us on Twitter @stocktoncouncil From bumps to babies and tots to tweenies we know you’ll www.stockton.gov.uk/events have a fun filled day. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

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