thirlwells - Billingham Community Newspaper

Transcription

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Christmas Fayre
High Grange
Community Centre
We are hosting a Christmas Craft
Fayre in High Grange Community
Centre on Casson Way on Sunday
30th November 2014. Please keep the
date in your diary to come along and
visit us and, if anyone is interested
in securing a table to exhibit crafts
& Christmas gifts please contact
Maureen Bowler on 01642 535744
for more details.
Local Dialling
Codes 1st October
ISSUE 33
www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
thirlwells
T E E S S I D E ’ S E STAT E AG E N T
the name you can trust!
SEPT/OCT 2014
Billingham
Number 1 Number 1
for New Listings in
Billingham & Number 2
in Middlesbrough
for available properties in
Billingham & Number 2
in Middlesbrough
We are Teesside’s longest
established independent
professional Estate Agents
65 Queensway, Billingham, TS23 2LU. T. 01642 361 111
75-77 Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 3AA. T. 01642 245 796
ESTATE AGENTS • LETTINGS • VALUATIONS • AUCTIONS
www.thirlwell-estates.co.uk
Pick up
a free car
from either
of our
offices!
Graces Little Book of Jokes goes global
Please remember that from the 1st
October your local dialling must
be prefixed by the 01642 code or it
won’t work, get into the habit now
or make a note in your diaries to
remind yourself.
Coffee Morning
The Hospital of God at Greatham
invite you to join them at their coffee
morning held on the first Friday
of the month at Hereford Terrace
Community Centre. Starting at 10 am
– 12.30 you can enjoy good company
at this monthly get together, meet old
friends and make new one’s over a
great cup of coffee. This event provides
a wonderful opportunity for both
carers and sufferers of dementia to
continue their social life in a friendly
and relaxed atmosphere. Call Jane
Conroy on 01429 279005 for further
information.
Photo by: Ellis Lowe
Get into Golf at
Billingham Golf Club
A cordial invitation is extended to
readers by the members of Billingham
Golf Club to come along and try their
superb new Sport England practice
facilities and also to sample the Club
House and see what this established
course has to offer. Whether a
complete novice or a more established
golfer, the practice range will be
open for a “Free Taster” of golf at
half term from the 27th of October
to the 1st of November. If these dates
are not convenient for you, or you
want to find out more about group
or individual lessons please call Mike
Ure our Club Pro on 01642 557060 or
alternatively ring the Club Secretary
Julie Lapping on 01642 533816.
TEES Credit Union
Ltd Collection Points
Monday’s 1.30 – 3.00pm New Life
Family Centre, Low Grange Avenue,
Billingham
Thursday’s 11.00am -12.00pm
Billingham Food Bank, 4 - 6 West
Precinct, Billingham Town Centre
Friday’s 10.00 - 11.00am Clarences
Community Centre, Port Clarence
Road, Port Clarence, Billingham
Photo by: Nicky Wilson
Royal Navy Photographer
Reader may recall that last October we ran with the
headline ‘Our Grace’. Well this year, our very own
Grace Franklin, now aged 8 years old, is busy penning
a new edition of the ‘Little Book of Jokes’ in support of
The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. Children can
help by contributing their jokes to this next edition by
emailing poppyappeal@littlebookofjokes.co.uk the top
100 will be selected to be included in the book.
At the time of penning her first book, Grace’s dad,
Captain Glen Franklin was serving in Afghanistan,
telephone calls home were short and for a young girl
who just wanted to talk to her dad, goodbyes were
hard. So just as the tears were about to fall and in a
bid to banish those tears, father and daughter would
exchange jokes to each, so they could end
each and every call with a laugh and a smile.
Last year’s appeal was such a success that
Grace has set herself a more ambitious target for 2014.
Graces Little Book of Jokes was sold across the globe,
raising over £600 for The Royal British Legion. Prime
Minister David Cameron said “Grace turned a difficult
time for her family into an opportunity to put smiles
on faces and raise money for a good cause.”
You could be a part of helping in the compiling of
this next book – so please do send in your jokes.
Recently Grace was nominated for the Points of Light
Awards, which saw this talented young author whisked
down to the NATO summit in Cardiff Bay. Grace
received her award from Defence Secretary Michael
Fallon onboard HMS Duncan.
There are still sponsor opportunities for this next
book, if you or your business would like to help
this budding author in her support for The Royal
British Legion in this 100 year commemorative
year of WW1, please email us at news@
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk and we will
pass your details to Grace’s family, mum Jenny, dad
Glen and sister Elizabeth, you can help them to get this
next edition to print.
Stay up to date with all things billingham at
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Our Sponsors
The Billingham Community
Newspaper is an
independent
publication that is funded
by sponsorship and adverts.
This issue has been
supported by:
Low Vision Supplies
www.lowvisionsupplies.com
Queensway Dental Clinic
www.queensway.co.uk
Billingham International Folklore
Festival
01642 553220
PD Ports
www.pdports.co.uk
Impetus Environmental Trust
01642 673313
The Pharmacy
Telephone: 01642 530304
www.theplaceinbillingham.co.uk
01642 564077
JW Smith Accountants
0800 915 5393
SRC
www.stockton.ac.uk
Northfield School & Sports College
www.northfield.stockton.sch.uk
Cowpen Cars
01642 370101
Hartlepool 6th Form College
01429 294444
Thirlwells
01642 361 111
Flooring Pete
01642 891840
NHS Healthy Hearts
‘‘
Vals
Corner
Val Scollen, Chair, Board of Trustees
Well this is me as you’ve never seen me before.
Inspired by so many people doing great things
for Billingham Legacy Foundation, I decided that
during the Carnival I would do my own Ice Bucket
Challenge and as I’m scared of water faced some
demons to do this but, I did and I raised over £100
- not bad for a pensioner! We hope you can support
Grace with her next edition of The Little Book of
Jokes’ if you can take any stock to sell please let
us know. Pat our Editor has also been in the news
winning Middlesbrough Philanthropic’s Teesside
Hero Award and we have students from our schools
and colleges excelling in all they do - just as well we
ran ‘Billingham’s Got Talent’ at the Carnival and
Horticultural Show - we truly do, what a great place
Billingham and our surrounding communities are to
live, work and play.
by Val Scollen
‘‘
2
Val completing The Ice Bucket Cha
llenge
BROUGHT YOU BY LOW VISION SUPPLIES
176 Belasis Avenue , Billingham
TEL: 01642 530801
www.lowvisionsupplies .com
Billingham Removals
07903 265 409
Northfield School
www.northfield.stockton.sch.uk
Stockland (Billingham) Ltd.
Telephone: 01642 360973
Billingham Gardening Services
07712228555
The Lock Shop
07717357791
Tilly Bailey & Irvine
0800 052 6824
www.tbilaw.co.uk
Useful Numbers
Local Government
• Billingham Town Council –
01642 551171
• Stockton Borough Council –
01642 393939
Community
• BELP – 01642 559115
• Hereford Terrace – 01642 564077
• Billingham Carnival and Garden
Show – 01642 559115
• BIFF – 01642 553220
• CAB – 01642 633 877
• SRCGA – 01642 733902
Libraries
• Bedale Avenue – 01642 527895
• Roseberry Library – 01642 528084
Business Services
• Know How NE – 01642 607592
• Five Lamps – 0800 4580 120
• HMRC – 0845 0109000
Emergency Services
• Cleveland Fire Brigade HQ –
01429 872311 or 999
• Billingham Fire Station, Seaton
Carew Road – 01642 546000
• Cleveland Police – 01642 326326
or in an emergency 999
• Billingham Police Station,
Town Centre – 01642 302930
• Billingham Neighbourhood
Enforcement Team –
07747 033429
• Ambulance – 01904 666000
• James Cook University Hospital –
01642 850850
• University Hospital of North Tees
– 01642 617617
• NHS Direct – 0845 46 47
GP Practices
• Kingsway Medical Centre –
01642 554967
• Abbey Health Centre –
01642 552700
• Melrose Surgery – 01642 553055
Chemists
• The Pharmacy, Finchale Ave –
01642 530304
• Davidson Pharmacy,
3 Station Road – 01642 360145
• Billchem Ltd, Billingham Health
Centre Pharmacy – 01642 553846
• Boots – 01642 553263
• Harry Hill Chemists,
Kenilworth Road – 01642 553184
• Rowlands Pharmacy,
39 Queensway – 01642 554416
• Tesco Pharmacy, Leaholme Road –
0845 677 9770
The Consultancy
01429 239689
www.theconsultancy.co.uk
If you are interested in becoming
a sponsor or advertising in the
newspaper, please email us at news@
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.
co.uk or call 01642 564 077.
Billingham Community Newspaper
is published by the Billingham
Community Newspaper Ltd.,
a not-for-profit company limited by
guarantee, run by a board of trustees.
Whilst every care is taken,
the publishers cannot be held
responsible for the accuracy of any
information herein. All dates and
details of events may be subject to
change and you are advised to check
with the organisers.
The publishers endeavour that any
information is correct at the time of
printing but may be liable to change.
The views expressed herein are not
necessarily those of the publishers.
BCN Hereford Terrace
Billingham
TS23 4AA - Tel: 01642 564077
newsBillinghamcommunitynewspaper.
co.uk
Printed locally on Teesside.
SEPT/OCT 2014
Churches
WEBSITE SPECIALISTS
01429 239 689
WWW.THECONSULTANCY.CO.UK
• New Life Church – 01642 646009
• St Cuthbert’s – 01642 554929
• Our Lady of the Most Holy
Rosary – 01642 553118
• St Columba’s – 01642 654388
• St Luke’s – 01642 554929
• St Aidan’s – 01642 554929
• St Mary Magdalene –
01642 554929
• North and South Billingham
Methodist – 01642 562046
• Spiritualist Church – 01642 881211
• Kingdom Hall – 01642 563895
• Billingham Baptist Church –
01642 656966
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Day Saints – 01642 563162
St Peter’s Church Wolviston
01642 554929
SEPT/OCT 2014
News in Brief
The Royal British
Legion – Billingham
Branch
On August 4th at 8.00am Billingham
Branch of The Royal British Legion held
the first of a number of commemorative
events at the Cenotaph in Station Road.
At 11.00pm some 70 local people and
branch members held a short candle
service to mark the exact time in 1914
when Great Britain entered the Great
War. During the next few months the
branch will hold short flag raising events
at the Cenotaph to mark significant dates
from 1914. All dates will involve a bugle
call, the raising of the union flag and take
place at 8.00am each date. The planned
dates are:
September 15th - Union Flag raised at
the Cenotaph at 8.00am and lowered at
7.30pm to mark the occasion of the first
trenches dug on the western front. Dress
formal with standards.
October 19th - Union Flag raised at
the cenotaph at 8.00am and lowered
at 7.30pm to mark the occasion of The
First Battle of Ypres. Dress formal with
standards.
November 6th - Union Flag raised
at the cenotaph at 8.00am and lowered
at 7.30pm to mark the occasion of
Great Britain and The Ottoman empire
declaring war. Dress formal.
November 9th St Cuthbert’s Church
Service followed by Remembrance
Sunday Parade.
December 16th - Union Flag raised
at the cenotaph at 8.00am and lowered
at 7.30pm to mark the occasion of the
German naval raid on Hartlepool,
Whitby and Scarborough. There will be a
full program at Hartlepool details TBC.
December 21st - Union Flag raised at
the Cenotaph at 8.00am and lowered at
7.30pm to mark the occasion of the first
German air raid on Great Britain. Dress
formal.
3
Forever Friends
When we ask ourselves, who in our lives
means the most to us, we often find it is
not those who give advice or solutions
but those who choose to share our pain
or hurt.
Such wise words for adults but when you
reflect that at the tender age of 8 years,
young Kacey Day should choose to shed
her own gorgeous locks of blonde hair,
to enable her to share the pain of her
best friend Rebecca Henderson, also 8
yrs old, it makes you feel very humble
indeed.
Rebecca, a pupil at Bewley Primary
School, has a rare form of cancer; she is
enduring painful treatments that caused
the loss of her own lovely hair. Rebecca’s
best friend and school chum Kacey,
knew just what to do, in fact she said ‘It’s
just what any friend would do’ get your
own luscious locks shorn and donate
them to The Little Princess Trust’, who
specialise in providing real hair wigs for
children across the UK and Ireland.
Kacey’s mum Sharon said ‘I thought
Kacey was joking when she first told
me what she wanted to do. I am just so
proud of her, she has launched her own
fundraising page on www.justgiving.
com/kacey-day should anyone want
to contribute towards the cost of a real
hair wig for Rebecca through The Little
Princess Trust, each wig costs around
£350’.
Rebecca’s mum Tracy said ‘I couldn’t
believe it when Kacey said she wanted to
be the same as Rebecca, it is such a lovely
thing to do and such a brave thing for a
child to do. A real hair wig is much more
comfortable for a child to wear and can
be style like your own hair’.
The Princess Trust provides real hair
wigs, free of charge to boys and girls
across the UK and Ireland that have lost
their own hair through cancer treatment.
Some children cope well with the side
effects of treatment such as hair loss, for
others it can be so traumatic and very
upsetting. Of course the sourcing and
manufacturing of the wigs is not free,
so the Trust raises funds to enable them
to provide this service to families whilst
they decide on their long term plans to
cope with their child’s condition.
I believe we should all have a friend like
Kacey in our lives. If you can help Kacey
raise money for The Princess Trust then
please visit her just giving page, details
printed above to donate.
Well done to both girls, may your
friendship continue to shine like a light
for us all to see.
L-R Kiera Day, Rebecca Henderson, Kacey Day and Jake Henderson
Work set to complete park refurbishment
WORK is set to get under way on a £200,000 project
to complete the transformation of John Whitehead Park
in Billingham.
Stockton Council’s ‘Heart of the Park’ project will put
the finishing touches to the regeneration of our fabulous
park. The Stockton Borough Council has worked in
partnership with a range of stakeholders to develop this
project which will create an attractive ‘core area’ in the
centre of the park where users will see new pathways,
seating and surface improvements, landscaping, newly
planted trees and an area for events.
There will also be new signage, picnic tables and waste
Work on ‘Heart of the Park’ is scheduled to start at the
bins installed along with some toddler play equipment.
beginning of this month (September) and is expected to
The full cost of the project is being met by Able UK,
be completed by Christmas.
who have committed funding for the scheme via the
Landfill Communities Fund.
Councillor Ken Dixon, Stockton Council’s Cabinet
Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, said: “John
Whitehead Park is already well used and valued by
the local community and the new sports facilities are
already attracting more people there. This new phase
of works will complete the development of the park
and further enhance it as a space for leisure, sport or
relaxation that everyone can enjoy.”
The Battle of the Hook, Korea 1953
Wolviston Court WI
On Thursday October 9th, the branch
will be holding its 47th Birthday Party,
with entertainment by
Eric Collins. His talk is entitled
“The reluctant Monarch” and should
prove very interesting. The monthly
competition will be a Royal Souvenir.
He spoke to the group last year about
the Crown Jewels and had all the ladies
wishing they had a few of the items!
After all, ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best
friend…’
In November, following our Annual
Meeting, members will be able to make
a craft item - usually themed with
Christmas in mind.
The group meets in the Community
Centre, Clifton Avenue, Billingham at
7pm on the second Thursday of each
month except August. Interested ladies
are always welcome and can attend
3 sessions as a guest before deciding
whether to join as a member. For further
information, please contact the Secretary,
Florence Wilson on 01642 554532
If you have news stories,
please email us at:
news@billingham
communitynewspaper.co.uk
Veteran’s from The 1st Battalion The Duke
of Wellington’s Regiment (The Dukes), who
served in the Battle of the Hook 1953 were
treated to a hero’s welcome when they visited
Billingham International Folklore Festival to
meet with the performers of the South Korean
dance troupe.
Malcolm Prince, Brian Park and John
Unthank recalled they set sail for Korea at
the end of September 1952, to join the 1st
Commonwealth Division. This deployment
was as a result of the United Nations decision
to support the United States in resisting the
communist invasion of South Korea, by their
neighbours in the north of the country being
supposed by the Chinese.
The Battalion joined the Division at the end
of September and soon found themselves in the
front line, moving forward to occupy a position
called The Hook in May 1953. Once there, ‘The
Dukes’ found themselves involved in the most
serious military action that was to change the
course of the war in Korea.
The Hook was a strategic position that had
already been the site of 2 previous heavy attacks
from the North and from day one the regiment
came under fire from snipers, mortars and
artillery, with the first casualties occurring on
the 19th May, which saw many killed or injured
over the following 7 days, including Malcolm
himself who was evacuated back home via
Malta after the conflict.
During the night of 28th May, following
a huge artillery barrage, wave after wave of
Chinese troops attacked the British positions
on the Hook. Initially knocked back, ‘The
Dukes’ fought back up the line to regain the original ‘D’
Company trenches that were being held by the enemy. Over
the next 24 hours heavy losses and injuries occurred with an
additional 27 men missing in action.
Throughout the battle ‘The Dukes’ were subjected to
constant barrages of artillery fire, each followed by relentless
waves of attacking Chinese troops. Being aware of the
strategic importance of their position ‘The Dukes’ kept
their heads and held the Chinese troops, enabling them to
maintain their control of The Hook.
It is said that the Korean War is often a forgotten war, it
never achieved the outcome sought to bring unity to the
divided nation, so to avoid adverse publicity it was seldom
talked about in USA or here in the UK. The South Korean’s
themselves have never forgotten the debt they owe to such
honourable veterans as Malcolm, Brain and John and when
they visited the festival and shared stories of their time
in Korea, details of the battles fought, all generations
of the dance troupe showed their respect to these very
honourable gentlemen. It was recognised that these kind
men, who fought so bravely truly gave these international
visitors the freedom they enjoy today.
Our local veterans were treated like royalty by all
members of the South Korean dance troupe, expressing
personal thanks for the honour of their visit to meet them.
It seems apt, in this Centenary year, when we are asked to
remember those lost in WW1 veterans, we reflect on the
words ‘Least we Forget’ –consider the humility of these
international visitors, who recognise the many lives lost to
give them their freedom. Thank you Malcolm, Brian and
John, wear your medals with pride, we all owe you a debt
we can never repay.
4
Alex supports child-led inquiry
into cost of going to school
Young people from across the country launched
their own enquiry after official statistics revealed that
there are 3.7 million children living in poverty, Alex
Cunningham MP was delighted to support them in
gathering evidence in an official committee room at
Westminster.
In the first inquiry led by children into the cost of
attending school and its effect on children in poverty,
supported by The Children’s Society, Alex helped young
people from The Children’s Commission on Poverty
to question experts about the cost of going to school
during a special session.
The Children’s Commission on Poverty questioned
witnesses over three days, investigating how struggling
families manage to bear the costs of school essentials
such as lunches, uniforms and basic materials,
including text books and access to computers. The
panel, comprised of 16 children and teenagers
from across England, are leading the Commission’s
18-month investigation into child poverty in the UK,
a timely reminder as the new academic term starts for
schools nationwide.
Alex said: “The Commission is providing young
people with a unique opportunity to examine firsthand the stark realities facing thousands of families
living below the poverty line and I was pleased to be
able to help guide panel members in questioning the
expert witnesses giving evidence to the inquiry.
“The investigation is not only giving children a
crucial platform to speak out about what poverty is
really like and reveal the day-to-day challenges they face
through their own eyes, but also beyond financial costs
to examine the emotional effects that the costs of school
life have on children and their families.
Matthew Reed, The Children’s Society’s Chief
Executive, said: “We are grateful for Alex’s support
for the young people and their commitment to
ensuring children’s views are heard on this issue. The
crisis of child poverty is growing, yet children’s views
have been largely absent from the poverty debate.
Children’s ability to benefit fully from their education
is critical to their future. Yet too often, children in
poverty are missing out because of the costs involved.”
Please send us your views on this research to news@
billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
Teacher of the Appeal for more Foster Carers
Year Award.
and Adopters in Billingham
Good Luck Mr
Burgess!
On the 26th of October staff and students at
Northfield will be glued to their televisions with their
fingers crossed as they watch this year’s Teacher of
the Year Award, broadcast live from the Guildhall,
London. Associate Assistant Headteacher John Burgess
has been shortlisted for the prize.
This year over 30,000 teachers were nominated for
the prize. Upon hearing the good news Mr Burgess
said “It’s a great honour to be a finalist in such a
prestigious award. It’s something I never expected
to receive and I could only have done so by working
in such an impressive school with such incredible
students and dedicated staff ”.
SEPT/OCT 2014
News in Brief
Wolviston
Court Evening
Townswomen’s Guild
We meet on the fourth Thursday of
each month, the meeting commences at
7 p.m In Wolviston Court Community
Centre, Clifton Avenue, Billingham.
We are a small group and welcome
visitors at each meeting.
Our next meeting is on 25th
September this is an open meeting as
we are hosting the Marske Fishermen’s
Choir and the more the merrier to hear
these wonderful voices.
The following meeting is on 23rd
October, the speaker is Peter Cook and
his topic is “Now and Then”.
We have had a good summer with
visits to Saltholme to enjoy all the birds,
Kirkleatham Hall to see the Saxon
Jewellery and Preston Park to wander
round the Walled Garden, but most
important in each case to enjoy some
refreshments in good company.
We are looking forward to our next
outing to Hardwick Hall for lunch.
We held a Coffee Morning in August
in aid of “Guide Dogs for the Blind”
and raised £250 to help this very
necessary charity.
If you require any further information
please don’t hesitate to contact the
Secretary Evelyn Shand on 01642
656568.
50 Golden Years
Stockton Council is looking for more foster carers
and adopters from Billingham to support some of the
most vulnerable children and young people in the
area.
There are around 387 children and young people
across Stockton on Tees who need to be looked after,
and the Council is encouraging people of all ages and
backgrounds to consider fostering or adopting a child.
Many people don’t realise that foster carers and
adopters can be of any age, as there is no upper age
limit. Carers can also be of any sexuality and they
may be single, divorced, widowed, living together or
married. They might be employed or unemployed,
and they may be a homeowner or tenant. The
Council welcomes applications from all sections
of the community and would urge people not to
rule themselves out until they have contacted the
Fostering and Adoption team for more information.
In particular, the Council is looking for people to
consider fostering children over the age of eight and
groups of brothers and sisters, as well as people who
would be willing to foster young people on a longterm basis until they reach adulthood and are able to
live independently.
Adopters are also needed for a number of children
who are waiting for forever families, and these
include children over four years old and groups of
brothers and sisters who need to stay together.
If you think you could foster or adopt, a drop-in
session is taking place at Billingham Forum on
Friday, 26 September between 11am and 2pm,
where the Council’s friendly Fostering and Adoption
team will be on hand to offer information about the
process and the support available to you.
For more information, contact Stockton
Council’s Child Placement team on: 01642 526218,
email: child.placement@stockton.gov.uk or visit:
www.stockton.gov.uk/fosteringandadoption
McDonald’s Love Where You Live
Business Managers Danny Hewitt (McDonald’s Thornaby) and Leanne Norman
McDonald’s Wolviston) were runners up in the recent McDonald’s ‘Love Where You Live’
competition held at Salford in Manchester.
Both of these business managers shared with colleagues and senior management from
across the north region details of their store’s local impact by working with the local
community, offering support and volunteer resource.
Danny worked with local residents in Thornaby by sponsoring a local football team and
helping renovate the area leading to their ground. This involved local staff giving up their
time to work as volunteers to help clear the area and help with the renovation.
Leanne has been involved with several events to support Billingham Legacy Foundation
including Christmas in the Clarences, BLF Community Games, a Careers Week
presentation at a local school and with Billingham Carnival & Horticultural Show.
Recently staff from the Wolviston McDonald’s store have volunteered to support the
horticultural projects down at Port Clarence being ran by Billingham Environmental
Links Projects. Well done to both Danny and Leanne and thank you for volunteering in
our communities.
Many congratulations to Barney &
Jackie McLean who celebrated their
50th Wedding Anniversary on 8 August
2014.
The couple who married at Holy
Rosary RC Church in 1964 celebrated
with a garden party, inviting family and
friends to celebrate with them. Barney
said that Jackie is still very much the
girl for him and hasn’t aged a bit since
they were first married all those years
ago!
Glad to see that the romance is still
alive. Barney & Jackie would like to
thank the team of Kings Coffee in
Norton who supplied all the catering
for their celebratory event.
Congratulations to you both.
Raise a cuppa to
Macmillan
Fri 26 September 10 am – 1 pm
A funeral home in Billingham is
inviting local people to join its staff for
a coffee morning to raise money for
Macmillan Cancer Charity.
Staff from The Co-operative
Funeralcare, at 61 Station Road,
are holding the event on Friday, 26
September, from 10am until 1pm.
During the fundraiser there will be
a book stall and a raffle, and guests
will also be able to browse around
the funeral home and enjoy coffee
and a cake, with all proceeds going to
Macmillan.
Visit our
New LOOK
website
www.billingham
community
newspaper.co.uk
SEPT/OCT 2014
Family
Fun Day
in High
Grange
Tanya Lawson helped organise a family
fun day at High Grange Community Centre
during the recent school holidays. Building
on a great event she organised at the centre
last year, Tanya decided it would be great if
everyone rallied to help and give support
during the day ensuring both parents and
children enjoyed themselves, with face
painting, arts and crafts, a bouncy castle,
raffle, cakes and refreshments there was
something for everyone. Tanya wanted to
thank staff from Tummy Ticklers, Thirteen
and community centre manager Maureen
Bowler for all their help.
Family Fun Day in Port Clarence
Stores Limited.
Clarences residents action group (CRAG) recently ran a family fun day down in
Queensway Dental joined in the fun in the sun, gave away free toothbrushes and
Port Clarence, with support from Housing Group Thirteen, A Way Out and Corner
toothpaste and spent time encouraging children to take good care of their teeth by
House. The sun shone and everyone had a good time, including when it came to
drawing the raffle ticket for the TV in the community centre kindly donated by Asda avoiding sugary drinks.
5
News in Brief
Billingham Choral
Society
Rehearsals are now in full swing
again, after the summer recess, with a
full programme of events leading up
to Christmas. You can hear the choir
at 7pm on Saturday October 4th in St.
Cuthbert’s Church Hall on The Green
- and enjoy a lovely supper afterwards
as part of the Harvest Celebrations tickets £6 from church members. Sing
some carols with us at Stockton Garden
Centre in November and watch out for
details of a “Songs for the Season” event
in St. Aidan’s Church, Tintern Avenue
on Wednesday December 17th at 7pm.
This concert will be repeated at St. Hilda’s
Church, The Headland, Hartlepool
on December 19th at 7.30pm. We are
supporting the Haematology Unit at
North Tees Hospital and the Great North
Air Ambulance with our Carol concerts
this year. Please help us reach our target
of £1000.
We are currently learning lots of
new songs in preparation for a Choral
Spectacular in The Sage, Gateshead to
be held in March 2015 - the last event
was a sell-out and thoroughly enjoyed by
both audience and singers. A recording
is available through choir members at £6
if you missed that one and we are now
clearing out our own CD at the reduced
price of £2 – makes a nice Christmas gift.
Please contact Musical Director Margaret
Pringle by telephone 01642 363502 if you
are interested in joining the choir or for
any information regarding events or visit
www.billinghamchoralsociety.org.uk
We will soon be collecting WISH
TOKENS from the Evening Gazette please save them for us - every token will
help towards the cost of transport to The
Sage for the Spectacular next year. Send
your tokens to F Wilson, 28 Whitehouse
Road Billingham when the campaign
ends and thanks for your help
Your Choir needs you
Synthonia Male Voice choir was formed
in 1928, as part of the social side of ICI
and it has remained a very successful
and friendly choir, entertaining groups
and raising lots of money for local
organisations. BUT…sadly, numbers
have declined recently and unless we
can recruit some new singers, it is in
danger of having to close. You do not
have to audition, or be able to read music
to sing with us - if you enjoy singing
various different kinds of music - both
modern and traditional - and would like
to know more, please contact Margaret
Pringle 01642 363502. The choir is part
of the North East Group of the National
Association of Choirs and will be taking
part in a Choral Spectacular in The
Sage next year, so now is a good time to
join, as we are learning new items. We
rehearse in the Foster Suite at Synthonia
Club, Belasis Avenue on Mondays
7.15pm to 9pm - just come along and see
what fun it can be - a warm welcome
awaits you.
The choir will join with Billingham
Choral Society to present a joint
concert in Norton Methodist Church
on December 6th in aid of the
Haematology Unit at North Tees
Hospital – tickets £5 will be available
from choir members or at the door. We
hope to see you there. More information
about joining and events at www.
synthoniamalevoicechoir.org.uk
If you have news stories,
please email us at:
news@billingham
communitynewspaper.co.uk
6
SEPT/OCT 2014
a Billingham Legacy Foundation Event
Billingham
Carnival and
Horticultural show
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rticultural S
a
This year BLF Supporters Group took up the mantle of organising
this year’s Carnival and Horticultural Show following the retirement
of Roger Black. This event is ran wholly by volunteers and there is
always opportunity to add skills and expertise that can help us further
develop this event over the coming years. Particular thanks must go
to the events team from Stockton Borough Council who were superb
in their help and assistance. Also special thanks to Cleveland Police
and our PSCO’s who helped us ensure this wonderful family event
remained safe for everyone.
We are short of photo’s for this year’s event as Pat’s camera
‘disappeared’ from a table – if anyone recovered a camera and would
like to return it to Old Billingham Business Centre it would be greatly
appreciated. Thanks to Paul Whittingham and Singing Sue’s who
contributed their personal photo’s to enable us to share this fabulous
day with you. If you can fill in the gaps, please send us your photo’s
to news@billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
nd
ow
Horti
cultural Sh
horticultural
show 2014
Sponsored by growhow
RHS Bankshian Medal for the largest amount of points in
the horticultural class.
Roly Gray
Winning Pot Leeks RHS Silver Medal.
Roly Gray
Second in Pot Leeks RHS Bronze Medal.
Stevie Chambers
Best Leek in the show RHS Certificate.
Roly Gray
Best Exhibit of Chrysanthemums RHS Silver Medal.
Roly Gray
Second Best Exhibit of Chrysanthemums RHS Bronze
Medal.
Roly Gray
Most Points in Chrysanthemums RHS Certificate.
Roly Gray
Best Exhibit of Dahlias RHS Silver Medal.
Ken Westwood
Second Best Exhibit of Dahlias RHS Bronze Medal.
Ken Westwood
Most Points in Dahlias RHS Certificate.
Ken Westwood
Best Exhibit of Vegetables RHS Silver Medal.
John Gallon
Second Best Exhibit of Vegetables RHS Bronze Medal.
D & L Wathey
Most Points in Vegetables s RHS Certificate.
John Gallon
Most Points in Novice Section RHS Certificate.
Joseph Chambers
Most Points in Flower Section RHS Certificate.
Kevin Trischler
Best Exhibit of Pot Plants RHS Certificate.
Kevin Trischler
Most Points by Billingham Residents RHS Certificate.
John Gallon
Best Dressed Onions RHS Certificate.
Marshall Emmerson
The Show had the most entries ever and
the produce was of the highest standard.
The show manager Deryck Forrest thanked
the exhibitors for supporting the show with
their fine exhibits and introduces Jacqui
Reed from Growhow UK to present the
winners with their awards.
Best Top Tray RHS Certificate.
John Gallon
Primary Schools Vegetable Competition RHS Certificate &
BELP Trophy.
High Clarence Primary School
School Wildlife Garden Competition RHS Certificate.
Wolviston Primary School
SEPT/OCT 2014
an
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orticultural Sho
7
Britain’s Strongest Man
an
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dH
orticultural Sho
at Billingham Carnival & Horticultural Show 2014
Contenders at the ready and these
immensely strong men, from all across the
UK, test every aspect of their strength and
mental ability carrying out a challenging
range of tasks on The Green in Billingham.
Britain’s Strongest Man contest saw eight men
battle it out for a place at the next stage of the
contest, the World Championship in the USA
2015.
Tasks at the competition - part of Billingham’s
annual carnival and horticultural show - included
pulling a 32-tonne truck and deadlifting a 400kg
car.
Competitors also had to flip a 365kg tyre six
times before pulling a 350kg metal chain 15
metres in the quickest time possible (and we
watched the 2 man support crew struggle to re
position for the next contender – these are no
lightweights!!!).
As muscles were stretched and pulled,
competitors moved to the final challenges
which included a 130kg log lift followed by five
atlas stones which each weighed between
140kg and 200kg.
Bob Daglish, organiser of Elite Strongman
has been promoting strongman events for over
20 years said ‘This has been one of our best
events all year, the competitors are in better
shape than ever and they have the potential to
win when they compete in the USA next year.
Today they have all been fantastic.’
When all the times and repetitions were
calculated there was a tie, so a tug of war was
held to decide the overall winner, Mikey Lane, 30,
from Coventry was awarded the title, with Tom
Stoltman, of Scotland awarded second place.
Mikey said “I’m feeling pretty good about going
to America but there is still a lot of room for
improvement so I need to keep training.”
Not far behind in third place was Scott Metcalf of
Sunderland, in fourth place was Gareth Eddy from
Hartlepool and in fifth place was Hywell Owen
Thomas from Wales.
Each will compete in the Amateur Strongman
finals next March in Columbus, Ohio.
After the organiser for the past 21 years, Roger
Black, stepped down, the event was taken over
this year by The Billingham Legacy Foundation
which is led by volunteers.
Funding manager Pat Chambers said: “The
community event brings together the old and the
young with traditional crafts and hobbyists through
to the very best in horticulture.
“We hope to make the event even bigger and
better next year.” Alongside fairground rides
and craft stalls, the event also played host to a
Billingham’s Got Talent competition.
Bill Whyman, 56, who is operations manager at
Falck Safety Services at Haverton Hill, who will be
sponsors at The Billingham Legacy Foundation’s
next fundraising event said: “I did not realise it
was on the doorstep.
1st Place Mikey Lane
2nd Place Tom Stoltman
3rd Place Scott Metcalfe
“This is the first
time I have been
and I think it is
a wonderful
event.”
gham Carnival
The Elite British Strongman Challengers at Billin
8
SEPT/OCT 2014
Billingham
Carnival and
Horticultural show’s Got
Exhibition of
Arts & Crafts
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ow
Horti
cultural Sh
a
an
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rticultural S
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2
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Tal
Thirteen year old Olivia
’s
Crawford winner of Billingham
Got Talent 2014
SEPT/OCT 2014
9
Billingham
Carnival and
Horticultural show
an
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ho
d Ho
rticultural S
a
nd
ow
Horti
cultural Sh
Fairground & Rides
Dog Show
Retirement beckons for
Roger after 21 years of the
Carnival and Garden Show
Thank you to all our sponsors
Billingham Legacy Foundation & their hardy volunteers - Stockton Borough Council and their events
team- New Life Family - Resource Centre - GrowHow - Sita UK - Turners Fairgrounds - Fracture Theatre Café Ramos- North East Truck & Van - Asda - McDonald’s - Tesco Distribution - Elite Strongman - PPS Ltd
- Old Billingham Business Centre -Thirteen - Warburtons - Goshen Trust - Calor Gas - Unite
And a host of individual sponsors, too many to list but sending a huge thank you to you all.
Since its inception in 1993 Roger Black, supported by his wife Margaret, has organised and ran the
annual Billingham Carnival and Garden Show. Now aged 70 years old Roger decided it’s time to take
some well earned rest having fundraised and delivered not only the Carnival but was instrumental in
providing an annual senior citizens Christmas party, numerous children’s parties and teddy bear picnics
on The Green, using any profits from the show to fund these community events.
As with this year’s event the Carnival provides an opportunity for local charities to raise essential
funds, so it is estimated that across Roger’s 21 year involvement he has helped generate hundreds of
thousands of pounds for good causes.
The Billingham Partnership Board of which Roger was an original member brought together
businesses and resident groups to be involved in community development and cohesion, long before it
became a political necessity to do such work.
Roger is also a founding Director of the Billingham Environmental Link Programme Ltd and
Billingham Legacy Foundation, both organisations work to support local people.
From solid foundations Roger has now passed on the responsibility for the organisation and running
of the Carnival to the Billingham Legacy Foundation Supporters Group with the caveat that all
proceeds from the Carnival go to developing and maintaining the Carnival and the Billingham Legacy
Foundation for the benefit of people in the area.
Terry Waldron the Chair of the BLF said ‘ Roger should be proud of what he has achieved over the
last 21 years, he has left a positive mark on our community and a legacy for us to build on.
We are grateful for all the work and support from Roger, his wife Margaret and, their sons Gavin and
Andy, their business Print & Promotional have offered continuity of support to the Carnival across the
21 year span. Roger, thank you for all you have done and we wish you a happy retirement’
10
SEPT/OCT 2014
News in Brief
Commemorative
Theatre at Preston
Park
BCN’s editor and fundraiser Pat Chambers was
momentarily lost for words when she received
a call to say that Andy Preston, Chairman of
Middlesbrough Philanthropic Foundation had
nominated her for the foundation’s Teesside Hero
Award and indeed, that she had won it.
Pat follows in the footsteps of many others who
simply volunteer to help make a difference in their
community.
Pat said ‘Billingham is “a special place” , it’s friendly
and more like an overgrown village. It is full of good
people achieving great things, I’m humbled to receive
this award as being involved in our community
Teesside Hero Award
newspaper I know there are so many good people out
there far more deserving of this award than me’.
Pat Chambers works full time but still manages to
raise money for a wide range of charities, organise
events throughout the year in the community and as
we said, is also the editor and fundraiser for Billingham
Community Newspaper. Pat wins a trophy and £1,000
from charitable movement Middlesbrough and Teesside
Philanthropic Foundation to give to a good cause of
her choice. Foundation chairman Andy Preston, who
nominated Pat for the award, said: “Over three years
I’ve seen some of the amazing things Pat achieves
for Billingham. I’m not exaggerating when I say that
Billingham, and in fact Teesside, would be worse off
without Pat Chambers. Bravo Pat!”
The Teesside Hero award was presented by Andy’s
fellow Foundation patrons Mark Smith of Billinghambased Stockton Machine Company and Claire Watson
of chemical giant SABIC, who have key operations
north of the river.
Recruiting new members NOW!!!
STUNNING digital visuals, music
and lights are set to captivate audiences
when a World War One commemoration
project with a difference comes to
Stockton.
Homecoming is a new moving and
thought provoking outdoor theatrical
production which commemorates 100
years since the outbreak of World War
One in Britain.
Stockton Council is working in
partnership with the four other Tees
Valley local authorities to produce
five large scale outdoor theatrical
performances of the production, each
one telling a story from the five towns.
A range of special effects including
mobile structures, digital projections,
music, lights and stunning pyrotechnics
will bring Preston Park Museum and
Grounds to life with stories from the
frontline at 8.30pm on Saturday, 27
September.
The production tells the moving stories
of residents’ contribution to the war, both
on the home front and foreign battlefields
overseas.
Visitors are invited into the beautiful
surrounds of Preston Park where the
real wartime stories of soldiers, nurses,
civilians and munitions workers will be
played out on stage. The stories have
been researched by archivists and local
libraries, including interviews with
residents across Stockton Borough and
the wider Tees Valley.
The event is free of charge but entry
tickets will be required. Tickets will
also include access to the Park and Ride
service operating from local car parks.
To find out more and secure a ticket
visit www.stockton.gov.uk/homecoming
or www.rememberingourwar.co.uk
Alternatively tickets are also available
from the Rediscover Stockton shop.
Continental Market
Visits Stockton
Monday’s & Friday’s
10:00am-11:30am
At Billingham Forum
You don’t have to be a singer to join this ladies
choir! A fun, relaxed approach to singing as
a group and to build your confidence. Picture
Military Wives, Gareth Malone and Rock Choir
all rolled in to an hour and a half!
Contact Singing Sue on:
01642 885409 for more information
or ‘like’ us on Facebook
Winning Ticket Holder
http://www.singingsuesvocalacademy.co.uk/
Book now to avoid disappointment!
Billingham Legacy Foundation Vice Chair Kevin Pitt presented the winning ticket holder
Jenna Barker with the TV (numbers 821-825), 2nd Prize 276-280, 3rd Prize 481-485 and
4th Prize 116- 120 Many thanks to Tesco Distribution Centre for donating the prizes for this
fundraiser.
If you have news stories, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
From Thursday 18 to Saturday 20
September Stockton’s new events space at
the northern end of the high street will
be transformed into a bustling market
with more than 30 stalls offering a wide
range of tasty produce and hand crafted
goods.
From 10am to 4pm daily traders from
France, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Holland,
Poland among others will be offering a
taste of the continent to buy and take
away or enjoy in the Town Centre.
Brittany biscuits, olives, Italian nougat,
cheeses, sausages, tartiflette (a delicious
cheese and potato dish from the Alps),
charcuterie, fresh bread, croissants and
freshly made crepes will just be some of
the mouth-watering foods on offer.
In addition stalls selling regional
handmade goods such as handbags,
soaps, lavender, toys and pashminas will
be on offer. To get shoppers in a truly
continental mood all the traders will also
wear their traditional dress and stalls
will be decorated to reflect the trader’s
nationality.
Christmas Fayre
Starting at 2pm on 15 November in
North Billingham Methodist Church
on Marsh House Avenue, a traditional
Christmas Fayre with a host of cake, gift
and craft stalls to tempt you all into early
purchases ready for Christmas. Meet
friends old and new and take the time to
enjoy some seasonal refreshments too.
SEPT/OCT 2014
Friends of Cowpen
Bewley Woodland Park
As councils come under more pressure to save money
it is becoming increasingly important for communities to
ensure that we all work together to help Stockton Borough
Council maintain and develop facilities like Cowpen Bewley
Woodland Park. There is so much pressure on resources,
that if we, as a community don’t help, facilities like Cowpen
Bewley Woodland Park are at risk of becoming neglected, as
local authority budgets are squeezed and monies need to be
allocated to maintain essential services.
A ‘Friends of Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park’ group
has recently been formed to promote the biodiversity,
conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and
natural environment of the Park and, to promote the benefits
of the Park to you and encourage you to visit and use the park,
we want you to walk, with your family and friends, or with
your dogs and help us ensure that this wonderful park is fit
for purpose, with accessible pathways and does not become so
neglected that pathways become overgrown.
The Friends group is planning an event in the park on
Saturday 25 October 10 am until 4 pm
so you can find out more, about the wildlife that occupies and
visits the park and, meet with our current group of volunteers,
perhaps consider becoming a volunteer too.
You don’t have to be a gardener to volunteer, simply provide
some willing hands to help us with maintenance of the park, help
protect the wildlife and provide a legacy for future generations
who may wish to use the park for conservation, education and
recreation.
Stockton Borough Council are currently in consultations with
the Friends, other interested parties and Tees Environmental
Trust about the future management of the park and we want to
provide strong evidence of support from our community through
the Friends group to help with the upkeep of this wonderful park.
The ‘Friends of Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park’ event will be
publicised in the Billingham Newspaper and also in the Herald
and Post. Please check future issues if you are interested in the
future of the park.
If you are interested in becoming a Friend and participating in
future events send an e-mail requesting further information to
cowpenbewley6@gmail.com or call 07899945307.
Making a clean sweep
for safety
With summer drawing to a close, Chimney Fire Safety Week
8 –14 September, provided a timely reminder to make sure that
your chimney is ready for the winter. As part of the national Fire
Kills campaign, Cleveland Fire Brigade is urging householders to
ensure their chimney is safe and to have their chimney swept by a
registered chimney sweep.
Open fires not only warm up a home, but also create a unique
relaxing ambience. With the numbers of people using open
fires growing, Fire Chiefs have provided some top tips for safer
chimneys.
• Always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks from
hot embers
• Make sure embers are properly put out before you go to bed
• Keep chimneys and flues clean and well maintained
Phil Lancaster, Director of Community Protection explains:
“With the colder, winter months looming, people will begin to
start using open fires and their chimneys again. In order to keep
you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary
steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending
upon what fuel you burn and I would urge all householders to
have a working smoke alarm in their home.”
All chimneys and flue-ways should be cleaned and checked
during the summer months to ensure they’re free from debris and
in full working order, a blocked or defective chimney can cause
both chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisonings so it’s very
important to employ a professional qualified Chimney Sweep.
Community Champions
Awards 2014
Stockton Borough Council is sponsoring the Children and
Young Peoples category, which recognises the achievements of
individuals and groups who have made a positive difference to the
lives of young people.
The criteria for the award is; ‘An individual or group that has
supported young people in the world of education, training and
employment or who has made a concerted effort to encourage
children to get involved in sports and other leisure activities .’
Are you are aware of someone who deserves recognition and
thanks and who also meets the above criteria? If so, please take
the time to nominate them and help them get the recognition they
deserve.
You can nominate online via The Gazette website at www.
gazettelive.co.uk/communitychampions. Alternatively you
can complete a nomination form. Forms can be requested by
contacting Dawn Mackey by calling 01642 527022 or at dawn.
mackey@stockton.gov.uk.
There are a host of other categories so do ensure you get
active with your nominations and help shine a light on good
people doing great things in Billingham and our surrounding
communities.
The deadline for nominations is Thursday 16th October 2014
Join Stockton’s
big community
switch to save
money on your
fuel bills
STOCKTON Council is once again inviting residents to
find out more about a collective energy switch which could
see them significantly reduce their gas and electricity bills.
The Big Community Switch will see people join together
to form a single, powerful buying unit to negotiate cheaper
energy costs.
This is the third time the Council has worked with
delivery partners ‘iChoosr’ and ‘Make It Cheaper’ to host
the collective switching scheme.
Residents will be able to register for the scheme from
today (Tuesday 2 September) until midnight on Monday 13
October. After that the Big Community Switch organises
an auction, and the supplier offering the best tariff will be
able to offer residents a new contract. After the auction
residents will receive a personal offer and can see how
much money they can save. There is no cost to register
and no obligation to accept the personal offer. The Big
Community Switch will ensure the switch is easy and
hassle free.
Councillor David Rose, Stockton Council’s Cabinet
Member for the Environment, said: “We are committed to
doing all we can to reduce fuel poverty, and this includes
finding different ways to help people get cheaper bills.
“When we ran the collective switch scheme last year more
than 2000 people signed up and from this around 230
residents switched energy supplier. The average saving for
a dual fuel customer was £165 but for some people who
had not switched before the savings achieved were much
larger with one resident saving £524 per year.
“I’m really pleased that we are able to offer residents
another opportunity to join forces and make a collective
approach to the energy market. It’s a great opportunity for
businesses and community groups to get on board too and
the more people who sign up, the bigger the buying unit to
attract lower prices from competing suppliers.”
People without internet access, or who would like some
help in the process can also register in Stockton and
District Advice and Information Service, Horizon Centre, 1
Bridge Road, Stockton on Tees, TS18 1BH (01642) 615834.
The Big Community Switch is open to all householders
(including those in rented accommodation and those
using a prepayment meter), tenants, small businesses and
community groups.
For more information and to apply on line visit www.
stockton.gov.uk/bigcommunityswitch
If you have news stories, please email us at:
news@billinghamcommunity newspaper.co.uk
11
Price Busting
Meal Deals
1. Any 2 x 10”
pizzas £8
2. Any half
parmesan, any 10”
pizza, tub of chilli or
garlic £10
3. Any 10” pizza,
large doner kebab,
tub chilli or garlic £9
4. Any 3 x 12”
pizzas £16
5. Any 3 (1/4lb)
burgers* £6
with chips only
*excludes doner, bolognese & parmo burger
15 Station Road,
Billingham
Tel
01642
558761
FREE
DELIVERY
WITH ORDERS
OVER
£7.00
5PM
TILL
LATE
12
SEPT/OCT 2014
Education
in partnership with
SRC Bede Sixth Form
SRC Bede celebrates A level success
It has been a summer of celebrations at SRC Bede Sixth Form as the college achieved a 98.4%
A level pass rate.
Results day saw the Billingham college achieve 100% pass rates in 20 out of 25 subjects, pass
rates at AS level reached 88.3%, while BTEC results were outstanding with 53% of students
reaching Distinction or higher.
Rick Wells, director of SRC Bede Sixth Form, said: “I am extremely pleased with the very
strong performance of our students again this year.
“Many students have exceeded expectations and I think this is a result of the specialist
attention we give them and the individualised support which SRC Bede Sixth Form is all
about.”
Among the many students celebrating success was straight A student Holly Jenkins. The
17-year-old has secured a place at Newcastle University to study Psychology after getting an A*
in Biology, an A in Psychology and an A in Chemistry A levels.
“Thrilled is the only world to describe how I am feeling,” said Holly from Billingham.
SRC Bede’s own budding Olympic hopeful, Rachel Highfield, was also among those to clinch
the results she was hoping for.
The Thornaby sprinter will be studying Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Durham
University after achieving an A* in Physical Education, a B in Biology and a C in English
Literature.
The 18-year-old, who had to fit her studies around a gruelling training schedule, said: “It has
been hard work and it was stressful but it was worth it.”
College director Mr Wells said: “We work relentlessly to improve students’ achievements, and
we have again demonstrated that commitment in this year’s results.”
But, he added, the hard work doesn’t stop there with the college, which was recently graded
Good by Ofsted, already looking to further success in 2015.
SRC Bede Sixth Form, which is part of Stockton Riverside College, offers a wide range of A
level, BTEC and additional courses.
Rachel Meier
with her
daughter, Millie.
Being an A* student is a new
experience for Billingham
mum, Rachel Meier.
The 35-year-old, who left
school with no qualifications, is
among those celebrating exam
success this summer.
Almost 19 years after leaving
school the Stockton Riverside
College student has picked up
her first qualifications.
What’s more she exceeded
even her own expectations,
achieving a string of
distinctions on the college’s
Access to Health course and an
A* in GCSE English.
“I always thought that I just
wasn’t very clever,” said Rachel,
who spent 15 years working
overseas as a maternity nurse.
Ambitions of becoming a
midwife were cast aside as she
believed she lacked the ability
to make the grade. Today,
however, it seems the dream is
back on track. Rachel explained
it was having her daughter,
Millie, now three, that inspired
her to go to college.
“I want to be a good example
to her,” she said. “It has
always been my dream to be a
midwife, and I want to show
her that if you work hard then
you can achieve.”
It was while studying at
Stockton Riverside College that
the mum-of-one discovered
she had a deep rooted fear of
exams.
Looking back she said: “I
realise now that is why I left
school with nothing.”
At college, with support from
her teachers, Rachel learned
techniques to help her to cope
with the stress of the exam
room.
Of her results she said: “I
couldn’t believe it when I
opened the envelope. I kept
having to check it, I thought
that there must have been a
mistake.”
Rachel now plans to study
counselling at Stockton
Riverside College alongside a
further GCSE in Biology in a
bid to go on and secure a place
at university.
She said: “It has been hard
work but I couldn’t have done
it without the support of my
family and teachers.
“At college I have learnt so
much, not just on the courses,
but about myself as well.”
Students left to right: Rachel Highfield, Grace Stobbs, Holly Jenkins and
Lewis Arnett all celebrating A level results at SRC Bede Sixth Form.
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2014
Job success for
students
Stockton Riverside College Prince’s Trust Team programme
students Daniel Chantrell and Heather Watson.
SRC Princes Trust
Left to right: Daniel Chantrell, Emily Crosby, Adele Cavanagh,
Team leader Chris Smith, Glen Perry and Heather Watson.
A fortnight’s work experience has paid off for two students
after bosses were so impressed with their work that they offered
the pair permanent contracts.
Heather Watson, 18, and Daniel Chantrell, 23, were snapped
up by Teesside food manufacturer, SK Foods, after they carried
out work placements as part of their course on The Prince’s
Trust Team programme delivered by Stockton Riverside
College.
Heather, of Billingham, who has struggled to find work since
leaving school, and spent two years doing volunteer work, said
of her job on the factory floor: “I couldn’t believe it when they
offered me a permanent position, this will be my first paid job.”
Daniel, of Stockton, added: “This is the first time I have done
a work placement and have been given a job offer at the end of
it - and I have done quite a few.”
The Prince’s Trust Team programme is a free 12-week
development scheme delivered by Stockton Riverside College
helping unemployed young people, aged 16 to 25, to build their
confidence and skills through a series of challenges and tasks
including a work placement and community projects.
Heather and Daniel successfully completed the course and
have now taken up positions as production operatives on SK
Foods’ factory floor.
The firm’s managing director, Jeremy Faulkner, said: “Both
Heather and Daniel worked exceptionally well and as a result of
that we offered them both jobs.”
A new Prince’s Trust Team programme is due to start at
Stockton Riverside College on Monday September 22.
For details or to book a place call Amy Langstaff on
07702 990 394.
WE’RE STILL ENROLLING! www.stockton.ac.uk/src-bede
SEPT/OCT 2014
Education
St Michael’s GCSE Results
STUDENTS at a Teesside Academy have celebrated
their latest GCSE results with a host of star-studded
performances.
Up to 95 per cent of all students achieved five
A* to G including English and maths. Under the
government’s new accounting rules 68 per cent
achieved five A* to C.
The school recorded excellent results in subjects
such as GCSE French (85 per cent), German (100 per
cent), additional science GCSE (80 per cent), physics
(95 per cent) and English literature (73 per cent).
A notable achievement was attained by Pupil
Ross Graham, 16, of Billingham, who sat his exams
knowing his mother, Helen, 51, was fatally ill with
skin cancer.
Helen, who had been fighting cancer for five years,
but was only told the condition, was incurable in
August last year, died shortly after Ross completed
his final exam.
Alongside studying for his exams Ross, who
achieved 11 GCSEs (including six A*A), also
dedicated his time to helping raise over £10,000 for
the MacMillan Nurses to keep a promise he made to
his mum before she died.
The overall results mark a continued journey of
improvement for St Michael’s Catholic Academy
which has undergone a series of radical changes
within the past year.
With a new dedicated team of teachers and leaders,
new facilities, new uniform and new name it is now
part of the multi-academy Carmel Education Trust
led by Carmel College, Darlington.
Head teacher Andrew Ramsey, who took over the
leadership of the school in September 2013, said:
“It’s great to see so many smiles on successful faces.
We have been delighted with the number of students
achieving highly across all of their subjects.
“It is a reflection of the supportive and nurturing
ethos of St Michael’s that so many staff and students
have been in school today celebrating with our
students. It is this strong ethos and focus on values
that underpins all our success.”
13
St Michael’s News
The A-Team, L-R, Daniel Millington, Sean Douthwaite, Beth Hall, Lucy Jones, Darren Stait,
Bethany Kelly and Hannah Bradley, who between them achieved 72 A*-A GCSE grades
Year 8’s send Bikes to Tanzania
Year 8 students from Northfield School
and Sports College set themselves a
challenge to raise funds that would
enable them to send 10 bikes to
Tanzania to help young people travel to
school. However, as you would expect,
young people in Billingham are just so
enterprising, that target of 10 was blown
out of the water and a phenomenal 58
bikes are now being provided to the
village children.
The original idea for this project came
from Year 8 Tutor Mr Tattersall after
reading an article in Grassroots. He
asked each form group to put forward
names of students who would be
prepared to represent them, with the
final pupil selections being made by the
student council.
With a boy and girl selected from each
form, the fundraising ideas just flowed,
those ideas soon became a reality, from
cake sales, to card sales, a sponsored
‘Onesie Walk’ around Wolviston to the
sale of handmade Christmas Cards, a
mammoth 12 hours sports marathon to
selling sticks of candy cane – there was
simply no stopping this wonderful team.
Of course there was a lot of learning
along the way and a huge reality check
about a lot with letters to students in
Tanzania and teacher Claire Dickinson
facilitating a skype call to one of the
schools involved, this communication
really helped everyone understand the
impact the bikes would have and the
time that would be saved by being able to
cycle to school, when currently students
may walk 2 hours each way.
This is a superb achievement and we
are so proud of you Year 8 (or Year 9 as
you will be this term),
Elish meets
students in
visit to India
Elish pictured above with students in Pune
Billingham teenager Elish Chambers
(16 yrs old) wants to thank everyone
who helped her represent North East
England during her trip to India in
August. Travelling with NEE Girl
Guiding, this young leader participated
in a range of community activities,
working with young girls aged 5 –
13 years during the ‘Discover their
Potential’ challenge in Pune.
Elish said ‘I absolutely loved every
bit of India, from the bustle of the
city to the remoteness of the villages.
Without the support of your readers, I
simply wouldn’t have had this fantastic
opportunity. I have learned so much
from living and working with these
young people and created memories that
will last a life time. Most importantly,
I learned how hard it is for these
young people to receive an education
that we take so much for granted.
It is a struggle to get a place at a
government school and students have
little resources available to work with,
it is amazing they learn so much with
so little. I would ask anyone who
discounts a ‘call from India’ to think
again. Learning to read and speak
English is a life changing opportunity
not just for the children of India but
their families too. We take so much
for granted it has made me realise
how fantastic our education system
is and appreciate all the resources we
have at St Michael’s.’
14
Education
Northfield’s Best Ever Examination Results
This year, students and staff at Northfield are
celebrating record breaking examination results!
The number of students achieving 5+A*-C (E+M)
is the highest ever achieved at the school and a 14%
improvement on last year’s results. 111 students achieved
10 or more A*-C grades; 15 students achieved 10 or
more A*/A grades, and 181 students achieved at least
1A*/A grade. Our English results improved by 16 % this
year and Maths results have risen by 21% since 2011.
Headteacher, Craig Walker, was delighted with the
improvements: “Staff, students and parents have worked
hard this year and I am so pleased that our students have
received the excellent academic results they deserve.”
Highest Achieving Students:
14 A*/A: Megan Clark
13A*/A: Eleanor Davidson
11A*/A: Anna Breivik, Jessica Gibson, Emily Lau,
William Henderson, Amy Dunhill
10A*/A: Rosie Caldwell, Thomas Siddons, Laura
Freer, Morgan Murray, Aimee Connor, Robbie Ayton
World Challenge 2014
During the summer holidays, 11 Northfield students experienced the
opportunity of a lifetime when they embarked upon a three-and-a-half week
journey to Central America. Two years ago, students from Years 9 and 10
dedicated their spare time and energy to raising £3,795 in order to take part in the
World Challenge expedition. At the time all they knew was that they would visit
three countries and to expect the unexpected. As the two years progressed, the
challengers chose exactly what their ideal expedition itinerary would consist of.
This included: a three day trek at 3700m above sea level, through a cloud forest in
Sierra Norte, Mexico; a two day project in an SOS village, working with disabled
orphans in Tuxtla, Mexico; visits to Mayan ruins in Palenque, Mexico, and Tikal,
Guatemala; a grueling three day trek through the dense, humid, creepy crawly
filled Belizean jungle, and finally a well-deserved rest and relaxation phase on the
idyllic Caribbean island of Caye Caulker!
All students rose to the challenge by each sharing the roles of team and deputy
leaders, accountants, organisers of travel, food and accommodation, and health
and safety. They travelled across three countries with two border crossings using
planes, boats, coaches and buses, racking up a grand total of 1331.4km (not
including the journey to Central America)!
The challengers went above and beyond expectations when dealing with
difficult and demanding situations abroad which even the most experienced
traveller might have struggled with. Their enthusiasm and vigour throughout was
commendable, resulting in the most amazing and unique memories created for all
involved. The students left as teenagers and returned as mature young adults.
SEPT/OCT 2014
Northfield News
Education News in Brief
Vote at Northfield
Students returned to Northfield after
their summer break wearing their new
school uniform. Last year the students had
been asked whether they wished to keep
or change their uniform. The result was an
overwhelming Yes vote. The students are very
proud of their new uniform which has turned
heads and even stopped traffic as they walked
to school.
Debbie Myers, mother of Laura, in Year 8
said: “I think that the new uniform makes
the students feel tidy and smart and gives
them a sense of pride. Whilst attending an
appointment just after school, numerous
people asked Laura which school she
attended. They gave such positive comments
about how smart she looked. People in cars
were even slowing down to admire the new
uniform”.
Year 7 Ebony Butler’s first day at Northfield
Northfield’s Art Club Celebrates Billingham’s 50th Folklore Festival
Due to the success of last year’s artwork, created by Northfield’s Art Club,
Northfield’s students were asked again by the organisers of Billingham Folklore
Festival to create an impressive 20 pieces of artwork to be displayed around the
arena to mark the festival’s 50th anniversary. During the summer term, pupils
from Year 7, 8 and 9 attended art club to create 10 dance figures and 10 flags
to represent the wide range of countries that have taken part over the years.
Many thanks to all the pupils who have taken part this year and to parents who
supported them with extra evenings after school. A huge thanks to Mr Shearman
and Mr Smith for their help.
Deputy Head Girl Molly Wearne and Head
Girl Abbi Liddle
Charity Music Night
On Thursday 25th September, Northfield is holding
an entertainment evening featuring Northfield student
musicians, singers and dancers, as well as very special guests,
the Silverwood band (the oldest wind band in Teesside) and
Saltburn Songsters Ladies Choir. The theme of the eveing
is ‘A Night at the Movies’, featuring the music from Harry
Potter, Les Miserables, Glenn Miller’s Tuxedo Junction, to
name but a few. Ticket prices are £3 for adults and £2 for
concessions. All proceeds will be split between Butterwick
Hospice and Caner Research. We hope to see you there!
New starter Year 7 Isaac Howells
If you have stories about your college or school, please email us at:
SEPT/OCT 2014
15
50th Anniversary of the Billingham International
Folklore Festival of World Dance
Finale of International Folklore
Festival goes off with a bang!
The finale of the 50th Billingham International Folklore
Festival of World Dance went off with a real bang on
Saturday night, when thousands of spectators gathered in
John Whitehead Park to mark the end of the week-long
celebration.
After 33 world dance events, 20 workshops, 3 new
commissions and 2 street parades - the Festival closed
its doors for another year with audiences applauding the
passion and enthusiasm displayed by the performers from
across the globe. The countries represent in Tees Valley
included Chile, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, North Cyprus,
Russia, South Korea, Spain, Thailand and the UK.
The final day included a farewell parade that saw all
of the dancers walking through the town waving to the
crowds and saying goodbye and a big thank you for all of
their support during the festival.
Billingham International Folklore Festival of World
Dance was supported by Arts Council England, Stockton
Borough Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Festival organisers estimate an increase of 25% on
audience attendances of workshops, free and ticketed
events in comparison to last year’s event.
Joe Maloney, Festival Director said: “After 50 years
the people of Billingham still find time to show loyalty
towards the Festival, whether it’s to share a tale about
bygone days or by attending one of the many unique
shows we put on. For us to stay in the public eye for years
to come we will need a new generation of people to pick
up the cultural baton, and from the high attendance of
our young people’s workshops I think the Festival is in
safe hands.
“I would also like to put on record the overwhelming
support we received from our funders and sponsors,
as without their input there would be no festival for
everyone to enjoy. I really hope that Billingham
continues to welcome global performers for years to come
and that the Festival stays close to everyone’s heart. ”
Over the week-long event the Festival visited venues
across Billingham, Middlesbrough and Newcastle ranging
from theatres, town halls, churches, schools, colleges,
parks bandstands and the bespoke outdoor festival arena.
If you missed the Bilingham International Folklore
Festival of World Dance you can still read about
the programme by visiting www.billinghamfestival.
co.uk and if you would like to take part in next year’s
festival then just drop the organiser’s an email on info@
billinghamfestival.co.uk or by calling 01642 553 220.
16
SEPT/OCT 2014
50th Anniversary of the Billingham International
Folklore Festival of World Dance
News in Brief
SEPT/OCT 2014
17
Business
It’s a Love Story
When BCN appealed for residents to get in touch
if they could help with any of the history of
Billingham Press, photo’s, articles, old editions, Val
Rutter (aged 79 years) called us and said her late
husband Bob used to work there, starting his career
as an apprentice.
On visiting Val to listen to the rest of the story
and see the wealth of information she had kept
regarding Bob’s career including some old editions,
what unfolded was a real love story.
Val was out with friends at the Carlton Dance Hall
in Norton, when a handsome young man, Bob,
tapped her on the shoulder and asked her to dance;
she said ‘I danced with him the rest of that evening,
in fact, I really danced with him for the rest of our
life together’, Bob sadly died of leukaemia aged just
53 years old in October 1985.
The Carlton Dance Hall was opposite what used to
be the Fiesta Nightclub (and if you can’t remember
the Fiesta you may now know the venue as the
Destiny Centre – which seems fitting for Val’s
story). Val was 17 years old and Bob was aged 19.
At a time when National Service was the norm, Bob
was conscripted to serve his 2 years in the military,
which took him across the globe to Singapore and
Kuala Lumpa before returning home to take up an
apprenticeship at Billingham Press.
Val said, ‘Love was kept alive through letters at that
time as that was the only way you could keep in
touch. Through our letters to each other we really
got to know each other, so that when Bob came
home aged 21 years, we became engaged then
married in 1954’. See photo
Thinking back Val recalled that moving to
Billingham Press meant a pay increase of £3 a week,
an absolute fortune in those days. They needed
to wait to get a house in Billingham and started
building their married lives together.
Bob operated the printing press at the newspaper,
(see picture) and thoroughly enjoyed his role there.
Val remembers the staff parties that the newspaper
organised; they kept everyone together and were
great fun. In fact through BCN and the Beamish
photo’s we published, Val recognised the picture of
Freda Maull and Ernie French, both friends from
bygone years, Val even had a photo of them in
her photo album at ‘The Fiesta’ – both looking as
radiant and in love then as they did when they were
at Beamish!
Val and Bob had 2 sons, Kevin and Graham, with
6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Val
said ‘When I read the article in your newspaper, I
decided to hunt out the old album and finding the
old editions of Billingham Press decided to contact
you. It has brought back so many lovely memories
of such happy and loving times, seeing photo’s in my
album then pictures in the community newspaper
made me think what a small world it is really’.
We totally agree with you Val, Billingham is a place
where it’s easy to know your neighbour, so glad
that you are such a valuable part of our community
history.
Ivan Harrington’s Apprenticeship
BCN had the pleasure of meeting with Ivan Harrington recently to talk about his extensive career with
Billingham Press.
Ivan, now 85 years old, commenced his career with Billingham Press on 26th August 1943 and he has his
original apprenticeship indenture all officially signed and sealed.
It’s great to see that even in a time of war, Britain was still investing in education and apprenticeships, very
much as we still do today – education and learning is the key.
Ivan had a small break of career with his National Service 1947 – 49 when he served with the Artillery but
returned to his role in the print room on completion of his service.
Across 50 years, Ivan saw the huge transition form letterpress printing through to lithography and digital,
in fact he recalls a list being posted in the staff room asking employees to sign if they wanted to move from
letterpress to lithography, there were concerns about everyone coping with the modernisation and change but
wow, just look at them now!
Ivan’s father in law was a bit of a photographer and it didn’t take long for Ivan to get the bug too – taking
1000’s of photo’s across the years and recording the information meticulously to provide a wonderful snapshot
of the history of Billingham. Currently Stockton Libraries Archives are working to record this information
and when complete will be available for many generations to come.
18
Business
SEPT/OCT 2014
Wilton Group Celebrates 20 Glorious Years
Directors at Wilton Engineering Group wanted to do something
special to celebrate their 20 year anniversary and decided the best
way to do that was with people they knew and cared about - their
staff!
Using the fabulous grounds at Wynyard Hall Hotel and the new
marquee which can comfortably host 400 for conferencing and
functions, staff were entertained through a wonderful pirate and
princess themed day.
The sun shone and of course the easiest way to cool down is to put
the directors in the stocks and throw wet sponges at them.
The catering was outstanding and staff stood poised to help and
assist as staff from across the Wilton Group, with their families,
enjoyed the fun day. Many congratulations to everyone on Wilton truly a magnificent day.
SEPT/OCT 2014
Business
Apprentices put through
their paces with the army
19
Town Centre
Update
from Tony
Donnelly,
Town Centre
Manager,
Stockland UK Ltd
PD Ports has been taking its’ new recruits through a pre-employment
programme which has been putting the group through their paces.
A group of eight long-term unemployed were selected from over 60
applicants to take part in a five week pre-employment programme which
on completion resulted in them joining PD Ports as dock operations
apprentices.
As part of this programme the cohort spent a week with the 4th
Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment at Middlesbrough gaining an insight
into the Army Reserve learning about camouflage and concealment, first
aid, observation and map reading. The group also undertook a gruelling
obstacle course at the Marne Barracks in Catterick.
Developed in conjunction with Redcar Development Trust and with
the assistance of the Army Reserve, the programme aims to get the
recruits ready to be in work instilling self-esteem, boosting morale,
encouraging team work and problem solving as well as nurturing a good
work ethic.
Russ McCallion, PD Ports Group HR Director, commented: “At PD
Ports we feel it is important to provide an entry into the world of work
for those who are hoping to become apprentices as it ensures they are
ready to be committed to their career. We are fully supportive of this
group and welcome them into our Company. We will do all we can to
ensure that they have every opportunity to secure permanent roles with
PD Ports.”
Those who went through the initial pre-employment programme have
now started their 18 month apprentice programme and following this it
is hoped that all will become permanent employees of PD Ports.
Ummar scoops the Sieff Award 2014
UMMAR Hanif, Neighbourhood Manager
for Thirteen, the parent company of Tees Valley
Housing and Tristar Homes, was rewarded for
his work recently when he scooped the Sieff
Award 2014 at the North East Business in the
Community Awards.
Ummar won the accolade for being a real
advocate of the values of the recently-formed
Thirteen Group, as well as his commitment to
improving the communities where he works
with a passion for developing new approaches to
working.
The housing expert was an integral part of the
board advisory team looking at strategic risks
to the business, and has been quick to response
to the challenges and threats to social housing,
excelling in his career at the same time.
Alison Thain, Chief Executive, of the Thirteen
Group, said: “Ummar has been a rapidly rising
star since he was part of our ‘Open House’
project in 2006 which targeted people from
BME communities to consider housing as a
profession.
“Ummar has constantly demonstrated his
undisputed abilities with his flair for developing
new initiatives, bringing fresh thinking to our
approach to neighbourhood management and
using his drive and vision to respond to the
challenges and threats to social housing. He is a
real asset to, and ambassador for, the Thirteen
Group, never taking opportunities for granted
and volunteering in his spare time to help
others fulfil their ambitions.”
His success meant Ummar also recently met
Prince Charles at the national Business in the
Community Awards.
It was really great to see the town centre buzzing
throughout Billingham International Folklore Festival, so
many of the visitors enjoying the fantastic sunshine we had
during the opening ceremony, using our local stores and
enjoying the ambience of the redeveloped centre.
We had some visitors comment on the fantastic changes
and improvements since their last visit to Billingham and
spent time relaxing in the sunshine with a coffee watching
some of the festival groups entertain shoppers and visitors
alike as they performed in and around the centre.
With the new Customer Service Centre & Library
nearing completion we will soon be able to remove all the
fencing and boards from around that development. This
building is looking very impressive and compliments the
extensive programme of regeneration in the town.
We all know that planning permission has been granted
for Aldi to develop the site of the Billingham Arms, we
hope this investment will bring a host of new opportunities
for the community. (Start date for development is still to
be announced but we will keep you posted through this
column).
There have been some enquiries regarding the potential
sale of the town centre – discussions are still in progress,
again, we will keep you updated should there be any
changes.
20
Business
Talented youngsters land jobs
as Lucite looks to the future
Pictured with Laboratory Analyst Natasha Connor (centre) at the Cassel site are Production Technicians (left to right) Dean Blakemore, Tom Swan, Tom
Walker, and Cameron Appleyard. Not in the picture are Laboratory Analyst Stuart Arkle, based at Newton Aycliffe and Production Technicians Daniel
Liddle and Liam Rutherford.
Chemical company Lucite International has
again demonstrated the value of the apprenticeship
route into work by taking on a team of talented
new recruits.
Six youngsters, all sponsored by the acrylics
intermediates manufacturer throughout
their 3 and 4-year apprenticeships at TTE in
Middlesbrough, have impressed enough to
be offered Production Technician roles at the
Billingham site. In addition, the company, which
also runs a Polymers and Resins production site
at Newton Aycliffe, has taken on two Laboratory
Analysts who successfully completed a 2-year
sponsored Young Scientist programme via TTE.
All the latest recruits are from the Middlesbrough,
Stockton and Hartlepool areas. A quarter of
the Lucite’s 300-strong workforce on Teesside
is now made up of people under the age of
30 and the latest new employees follow in the
footsteps of dozens of other former sponsored
apprentices to be taken on in recent years who
are helping the company to bridge the skills and
age gap. Cassel Site Director Melanie Jury said:
“We’re delighted with the young people we have
WILLS Office
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Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and is authorised and regulated by the Financial
Conduct Authority for the conduct of investment business.
Offices in Wynyard, Stockton, Hartlepool & Barnard Castle
recruited. All demonstrated the high levels of
motivation and achievement we were looking
for during their apprenticeships and landed
these permanent jobs totally on merit. “Lucite
has an excellent track record over many years of
recruiting young people after completing their
apprenticeship. Apprenticeships and staff training
and development form an essential part of our
succession planning as we look to the future.”
The Production Technicians all gained an NVQ
Level 3 in Process Operations via TTE with some
gaining an HNC in Chemical Engineering via
Teesside University supported by the company.
Dean Blakemore said: “The Production
Technician apprenticeship programme included off
site training initially followed by 2 years working
on site which was invaluable in getting ‘hands
on’ experience of the skills required to run the
chemical plants.”
Natasha Connor completed her Young
Scientist programme at the end of 2013 having
previously studied science subjects at A Level at
Middlesbrough’s Macmillan Academy. Sponsored
by Lucite throughout the programme, the
company is now encouraging her to study for a
Bachelor of Science degree at Teesside University
via day-release. She said: “The ability to earn as
well as learn was important to me and I’m so glad
I followed the apprenticeship route with Lucite’s
support.”
SEPT/OCT 2014
Cleveland
pOLICE update
Inspector
Marc
Anderson
Billingham
Neighbourhood
Inspector
I am pleased to inform you that public
reported crime for the financial year at the
end of August for Billingham is showing
a 19% crime reduction compared to the
same time last year and reported anti-social
behaviour is also showing a reduction of
11%. In summary this means there has been
147 less victims of crime and 128 less calls of
anti-social behaviour reported in Billingham
over the past five months which can only be a
good thing for our community.
However your Neighbourhood team have
continued to react to incidents reported
and such an example has been where there
has been a crime series in Billingham north
and west where insecure vehicles had been
targeted during the months of August and
September. Due to this additional officers
were deployed on evenings in these specific
areas and three persons were arrested during
the month of August for these offences.
There have been a number of thefts from
vehicle across Wolviston, Billingham North
and West overnight in the early hours of
Thursday 4th September. Patrolling units
pursued and detained two males in the area
who were subsequently arrested and have
since been charged to court for a number of
these offences..
Can I remind you all to ensure that you
secure your vehicles when unoccupied and
where possible remove items of value such as
phones, sat navs, lap tops, tools, etc. Thieves
need to be denied opportunity, we would
rather see offences prevented in the first
instance and these are the vehicles that were
specifically targeted.
Community intelligence is vital to assist
us in reducing crime and bringing offenders
to justice and I would encourage you all to
continue reporting any suspicious incidents
or any information relating to crime or antisocial behaviour to your Neighbourhood
Policing Team. You can contact your
Neighbourhood team on telephone number
101 or alternatively attend one of the
community meetings held by Officers that are
advertised on Cleveland Police Website. www.
cleveland.police.uk
OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE
Competitive rates, easy in/out terms
For further information please
contact Gavin on
01642 533089 or gav@pps-ltd.co.uk
Old Billingham Business Centre
1 Chapel Road, Billingham, TS23 1EN
SEPT/OCT 2014
21
Hereford Terrace, Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees, TS23 4AA
Telephone: 01642 564077
Let’s get Billingham Healthy!
A new initiative linking Healthy Heart checks with school activity is getting under way in Billingham right
now.
In the coming weeks 11 schools in Billingham will receive a ‘Let’s get Active’ pack of playground
equipment to encourage playtime exercise. The packs will consist of lots of fun play equipment including
Saturn Skippers, Hula Hoops, Skipping Ropes, Frisbee’s and other fun-filled items to encourage playtime
exercise.
Along with this the schools will have the opportunity
to compete for huge cash prizes to be used for other
equipment or to access activities.
How will this work and what can you do to help
your local school?
Book a Healthy Heart check now and your GP surgery
will award you a token to give to your local school, the
schools that have collected the greatest amount of
tokens will win cash prizes. It’s that easy!
What’s in it for you?
Well, along with helping your local schools and
community, the check aims to help you lower your risk
of four common but often preventable conditions: heart
disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease. Who will
you do it for?
Book a Healthy Heart Check now and look forward
to a healthier future.
People eligible for the Healthy Heart check are those
aged 40-74 who haven’t had a check in the last 5 years
and don’t have any of the following:
• Coronary Heart Disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes (any type)
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD stages 3 to 5)
• Hypertension
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
• Familial Hypercholesterolemia
• Heart Failure
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) or Peripheral
Vascular Disease (PVD)
• Those who have been prescribed statins
• Those who have been identified with a CVD risk score
of 20% or above
BELP is a not for profit
organisation that serves people
in our community.
The Place in Billingham provides a full and inclusive range of services
from community activities through to education, training, work clubs and
skills development suitable for all ages and abilities as well as offering
a range of programmes to help people into employment and support
healthy living.
The Place in Billingham also offers confidential advice and guidance
in all matters including debt, benefits and housing issues and offers a
confidential support service for anyone with drugs or alcohol problems.
More than just a community centre, The Place is where those who
grace our halls find friends and wider support. Mostly The Place is
where we learn to share our lives and develop the essence of our
community.
WE DON’T JUST GET YOU TRAINED,
WE GET YOU INSPIRED.
We offer a range of classes which are chosen in keeping with
community needs and realistic job opportunities. The courses are
reviewed constantly to meet the changing demands and opportunities.
TRAINING COURSES AT THE HEREFORD CENTRE:
CSCS (construction)
Emergency First Aid in the workplace
Level 2 Food Hygiene
Basic Computing
Level 1 Computing
Level 1 and 2 Adult Health & Social Care Courses
Level 1 and 2 Child Health & Social Care Courses
Drugs & alcohol awareness
Mental Health awareness
Silver surfers (over 60’s I.T.courses)
If you would like any further details regarding any of the courses
please contact June or Ellis at the Hereford Centre on 01642 564077.
The Hereford Centre also help people in recovery from alcohol and
drugs issues return to work. - If you are in recovery and would like some
help to return to work please contact Naomi at the Hereford Centre on
01642 564077.
Join
Billingham
Rugby Club
U10’s and
U11’s
You only have one heart, look after it!
Billingham Rugby Club U10’s and U11’s teams are looking forward to a fantastic season again this year.
Meeting every Sunday morning, they come together to improve their skills in rugby, health and fitness,
developing socially and forming lasting friendships.
The U10’s and U11’s teams last year experienced amazing opportunities, with the highlight of their season
being chosen to represent England as “Guard of Honour” at Twickenham, the home of English rugby, where
they were also given the opportunity to show off their talents on the pitch in front of 78,000 people, an
experience which has inspired both teams. The teams have enthusiasm and drive which has led them to
some outstanding victories. Win or lose, the team’s passion and spirit is their strength.
With the Rugby World Cup 2015 being held in England we and the RFU are looking to get more children
involved in this fantastic sport. Youth teams and Mini teams training sessions and matches take place every
Sunday. Interested in playing for Billingham Rugby Club? Please contact Colin Snowdon (Youth Chairman)
on 07733307861 or Colin.snowdon@ntlworld.com or come along to the club on a Sunday morning from
10am.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
@BillinghamWorkC
@The_Place_In_Billingham
We are looking for the artist amongst you to promote the
Healthy Heart project and healthy living in our area.
Create a poster and win a prize. You’ll see your poster in the
Billingham Community News and in locations throughout the
Billingham area.
Winning Categories:
 Under 10 years old
 Aged 10 to16 years old
 16 years old plus
Send entries to ……………….
22
SEPT/OCT 2014
Arts
Simply Ballet
Dance teacher Jo Laud invited BCN across to The Picture House on Mill Lane
to visit some of the young people now enrolled into her ballet classes.
When looking at the host of dance classes in Billingham from Zumba to Tap,
Jo realised that Billingham lacked its own Ballet School and, as a RAD (Royal
Academy of Dance) registered teacher with 10 years’ experience decided to open
her own school and has been overjoyed at the number of students now enrolled.
Jo said ‘Ballet helps develop confidence and poise whatever your age, it’s a
great way to keep fit and of course to make new friends. I run classes from age 3
through to more mature citizens who have never even set foot in a ballet studio
before. The sessions range from Twinkle Toes to a special session for our seniors,
so there truly is something for everyone at Laud Ballet.’
The students who joined with Jo for a photo call dazzled us with their technique
and musicality but most of all their smiles. Well done Jo and we wish you
continued success with your business.
If you want to learn more about the range of classes available www.laudballet.
co.uk or email jo@laudballet.co.uk
Silver Swans
Sunday 5 October 2014, 2.00–4.15pm
The Picture House
South View, Billingham, County Durham TS23 1BT
If you’re over 65 and it’s been a while since you danced (or
you’ve never given it a go), come along and try our FREE Silver
Swans workshop.
Open to all abilities, this is a relaxed and friendly workshop featuring:
2.00–2.45pm
2.45–3.30pm
3.30–4.15pm
Ballet class
Refreshments
Zumba
To book a place in this one-off workshop contact:
Jo Laud – jo@laudballet.co.uk / 07771 722289
Presented by
In support of
“My first ballet class, aged
67 – just wonderful!”
– Silver Swan class attendee,
2013
Photo: Andy Ross, courtesy
of Scottish Ballet, Regenerate
@RADheadquarters
/RoyalAcademyofDance
Royal Academy of Dance® is a charity registered in England and Wales No. 312826
Silver SwansTM is a registered trademark of the Royal Academy of Dance
House of Blah Blah
CREATIVE students are to be given the opportunity to make
a show of themselves at a new arts venue on Teesside. Cleveland
College of Art & Design graduates Bobby Benjamin and Keren
Pearson, have opened the doors to their new artistic venture in
Middlesbrough to encourage talented young artists to exhibit their
work. The House of Blah Blah, on Exchange Square, features a
gallery, studios, archive and storage facilities, a band practice room
and project spaces for exhibitions, workshops and photo shoots.
“Opening our own arts venue is something that Keren and I
have wanted to do for a long time,” said Bobby 31, who studied
photography at CCAD before graduating with a fine art degree
from university.
“We really want to encourage young artists from across Teesside,
including CCAD, to come and use the facility, put work on display
and show what incredible talent we have here in the North East.”
The House of Blah Blah, which has been three years in the
planning opened with an exhibition of nine local and international
artists, all former CCAD graduates, showing a diverse range of
artistic mediums from photography and installations to sculpture,
painting, film and textile design.
“It’s great to be able to offer event space for creative people, run
by artists who understand their creative vision,” said Keren, 27,
of Billingham who studied art and design, textiles and fashion
at CCAD. “It has been a lot of hard work getting The House of
Blah Blah off the ground. The building had been empty and lying
derelict for over ten years and it took us six months alone just to
restore it for the opening. “Now we hope that it will be a real focal
point buzzing with creative artists, writers, musicians, film makers
all coming together to help support the arts on Teesside and across
BILLINGHAM PLAYERS 2014/15 SEASON
INFORMATION
Friday 3 October, 7.30pm: We will be hosting a free and informal preseason evening. All are welcome to come along and mingle over a drink,
join in the quiz and find out what is in store for the 2014/15 season.
We’re also very excited to announce that 2015 is our 40th anniversary
year! There will be lots of exciting events and celebrations. We hope our
audience will delight in joining us for our Ruby anniversary celebrations.
Monday 10 – Saturday 15 November: Oh What a Lovely War
This chronicle of the First World War, told through songs and
anecdotes from the period, is directed by Sue Brackenbury, with musical
direction from Steve McNichol. The show coincides with Armistice
Day, which will be particularly poignant this year. We look forward to
welcoming our audiences to join us.
Wednesday 10 – Friday 12 December: Oh What a Lovely Christmas
Our celebration of Christmas, both traditional and modern, is devised
by Sue Brackenbury & Steve McNichol. Bring your singing voice and join
us for some Christmas sparkles and songs.
Monday 9 – Saturday 14 February 2015: Relatively Speaking
An Alan Ayckbourn comedy, directed by Julia Armstrong.
Greg and Ginny are living together, but Greg is becoming suspicious
that he is not the only man in her life. He wonders about Ginny’s plan ‘to
visit her parents’ and decides to follow her. In a classic case of mistaken
identity, the hilarity ensues in true Ayckbourn style.
This was one of our original productions, and Julia was an original
star! She is returning to direct this production and begin our 40 year
anniversary celebrations.
Monday 20 – Saturday 25 April 2015: The Fifteen Streets
Adapted by Rob Bettinson from the novel by Catherine Cookson, and
directed by Barrie Robinson.
Set in 1910, this tells the story of one family’s fight for physical and
moral survival in the poverty and squalor of the dockland slums of
Tyneside. At the centre is the apparently impossible love affair between
rugged docker John O’Brien and Mary Llewellyn, a schoolteacher.
For regular news and updates, please see our website: www.
billinghamplayers.co.uk
Martina Cole Book Signing
the country.”
The House of Blah Blah will be opening up more space on its
second floor over the summer to accommodate musicians and a
library, as well as a submission area for new artist to sell their work.
For more information on opportunities at CCAD contact (01642)
288888 or log on to www.ccad.ac.uk.
Bestselling author Martina Cole is heading to Thornaby Central Library
next month to talk about her latest novel, The Good Life.
The event on Thursday 9 October will offer fans of the hard-hitting
writer the chance to learn about her life and work as well as her latest
thriller. Martina will be signing books at the end of the event.
Martina is renowned for her uncompromising and haunting writing set
in and around gangland London. Her books have been adapted for both
television and the stage.
The Good Life is Martina Cole’s 21st novel and will be on sale to the
public at the beginning of October.
The event starts at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £4 and are available through
the Visitor Information Centre at the Rediscover Shop on Stockton High
Street, by telephone on (01642) 528130 or from any library in Stockton
Borough. Booking is essential.
SEPT/OCT 2014
23
Health
QUEENSWAY
DENTAL CLINIC
Queensway
Dental Clinic
Hits the Gold
Standard
Queensway Dental Clinic has been awarded the Investors in People
(IIP) Gold standard, the first dental clinic in the north east region to
achieve the highest level of people management accreditation.
Queensway Dental Clinic, which employs over 100 staff across its
sites in Billingham and Darlington, joins the top seven per cent of
accredited organisations across the UK who believes in realising the
potential of their teams.
The dental practice has been recognised for its commitment
to developing and supporting its employees. After renewing the
Investors in People standard earlier this year, IIP were so impressed
with the people management practices at Queensway that it reassessed the clinic and awarded the highest accolade of gold.
Joanne Cooper, Practice Manager at Queensway Dental Clinic said:
“We are proud to have been awarded the Investors in People Gold
standard, the business is only as good as its people and this award
reflects our dedicated team. In the future we will continue to develop
and maintain the high standards that we already have in place.”
Investors in People is the UK’s leading accreditation for business
improvement through people management, and provides a wealth of
resources for businesses to innovate, improve and grow, with a focus
on good people making great business.
Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to
congratulate Queensway Dental Clinic on its Gold standard. Such
a high level of accreditation is the sign of great people management
practice, and demonstrates a commitment to staff development and
shows an organisation committed to being the very best it can be.
Queensway should be extremely proud of their achievement.”
Steve Burrows, Managing Director of Investors in People North
of England said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Queensway
and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We
believe that good people make a great business and as a proven
organisational development framework, Investors in People is
designed to help organisations and their people to realise potential,
enhance performance and meet goals. With their Gold accreditation,
Queensway is certainly working to realise their people potential.”
To find out more and read profiles of the team at Queensway Dental
Clinic, visit www.queensway.co.uk
Queensway Dental Clinic,
170 Queensway. Billingham,
Teesside, TS23 2NT
Call us on 01642 554667
or please visit www.queensway.co.uk
Ross takes on the coast to
coast for Macmillan
We reported last edition on the sad loss of Helen Graham and the pledge her son 16 year old son Ross made to her, that he
would cycle the Coast to Coast, fundraising for Macmillan in memory of the help and support they gave to his family during
that sad time.
We are pleased to report that Ross Graham did indeed complete the Coast to Coast, not with his training buddy Joe Howard,
who broke his shoulder just 2 days before the event but, with another great friend Ralf Hodgson (17 Years old) pictured right.
Ross, managed to complete all the intensive training with Joe, then following completion of his GCSE’s set off from the Marina
in Whitehaven completing the challenge in Roker Sunderland in just one day (a very long 12 hour day!).
Ralf travel up from competing in another cycling event in Devon,so he could accompany Ross throughout the challenge. Ross
raised over £11,000 for Macmillan and successfully achieved A* in his GCSE’s. What a star he is, well done Ross!
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24
SEPT/OCT 2014
+
This winter,
protect yourself
from flu
Eat Healthy Foods and
changing your eating habit
Choosing healthier foods is easier than you may
think. By changing just a few eating habits you
can make a big difference to your diet.
Making small changes to your diet is the healthiest and most achievable
way to lose weight.
visit the www.nhs.uk for more details
Your first step is to eat fewer foods high in calories, fat, salt and sugars
and swap them for something healthier, including more fruit and
vegetables.
Remember, small changes can add up to make a big overall difference
to your diet.
Find out more in the eatwell plate about which foods you should be
eating – and in what amounts – to achieve a balanced diet.
Food and drink swaps
Try these small changes when you have your next meal or drink, or
when you open the kitchen cupboard or fridge looking for a snack.
Once you’ve got started, try thinking of your own healthier swaps, too.
When buying pre-packed food, don’t rely on the attractive
promotional print on the wrapping, which can be misleading. Instead,
learn to read the nutritional information when checking for calorie, fat,
salt and sugar content.
Breakfast
• Swap from whole milk to semi-skimmed, 1% fat or even skimmed
milk.
• Swap a sugar-coated breakfast cereal for a whole grain breakfast
cereal such as porridge or shredded whole grain wheat cereal with no
added sugar.
• Swap a sprinkle of sugar on your breakfast cereal for a topping of
fresh or dried fruit, which counts towards one of your five a day.
• Swap full-fat Greek yoghurt for lower-fat or fat-free Greek yoghurt,
or natural low-fat yoghurt.
Lunch
• Swap white breads, bagels and muffins for whole grain varieties.
• Swap butter and cheese in your jacket potato for reduced fat spread
and reduced salt and sugar baked beans.
• Swap a tuna melt panini for a tuna salad sandwich on wholemeal
bread without mayo.
• Swap a cheddar cheese filling in your sandwich for reduced-fat hard
cheese.
Dinner
• Swap creamy or cheesy sauces for tomato- or vegetable-based sauces
on your pasta, meat or fish dishes.
• Swap mashed potato made with butter and whole milk for mash with
low-fat spread and a lower-fat milk such as semi-skimmed, 1% fat or
skimmed.
• Choose leaner cuts of meat: for example, swap streaky bacon for back
bacon.
• Swap the frying pan for the grill when cooking meat.
Drinks
• Swap a coffee made with whole milk to a “skinny” coffee made with
semi-skimmed or skimmed milk.
• Swap a cordial for a cordial with no added sugars.
• Swap a few of your sugary drinks for a glass of water.
• Swap a cola or fizzy drink with some 100% fruit juice (with no added
sugar) mixed with soda water.
• Swap hot chocolate made with whole milk and served with whipped
cream for a hot chocolate made with skimmed milk and no cream.
Snacks
• Choose from these 10 surprising 100kcal snacks
• Swap a blueberry muffin for a currant bun on its own or with some
reduced fat spread.
• Swap yoghurt-coated raisins for plain raisins.
• Swap salted nuts for unsalted nuts.
• Swap cheese straws for rice cakes with lower-fat cream cheese.
The eatwell plate highlights the different types
of food that make up our diet, and shows the
proportions we should eat them in to have a well
balanced and healthy diet.
Free Advice and Support available: www.more-life.co.uk
Health Trainer service (FREE 1:1 advice on improving diet, being more active and weight loss for adults) 01642 383833
Lite4life service (FREE group weight loss service for adults) - 01642 526696/526740
Flu is a highly infectious disease which can affect anyone
during the winter months. It causes very unpleasant
symptoms which often result in missing work/school and
upset normal living for several days, even weeks.
In some cases the infection is more serious, can lead to
serious complications and may even be fatal. It is caused by a
virus which can be spread by coughing or sneezing. It can be
picked up by breathing in droplets from the air or touching
contaminated surfaces.
Some people are more susceptible to infection and can
suffer more seriously from the complications of flu. These
people include the elderly, pregnant women and those with
certain long term conditions. In other words, people who
you are likely to be in contact with each day, maybe without
realising it.
There is a very easy way to protect not just yourself, but also
those who you could pass the virus on to….
HAVE A FLU JAB.
If you receive this vaccination you will protect yourself
from flu and its complications and so won’t be able to infect
anyone you come into contact with, either at home or in the
workplace. Even if you have been vaccinated in previous
years it is vital to get it again this year, as each year a new
vaccination is used to protect against the latest and most
harmful strains of the flu virus.
The Pharmacy offers a flu vaccination service which is
available free of charge to those who are eligible on the NHS.
Our staff can advise you if you fall into this group. If not we
can still vaccinate you for a small fee. There is no need to
make an appointment; we will fit you in at a time to suit you.
Flu can be a major cause of people taking sick days off work
which is inconvenient and costly to businesses. If you are an
employer and would like to offer the flu vaccination to you
employees, please call The Pharmacy to discuss how we could
help with this.
Our vaccination service will run from 29th September so
now is the time to plan your flu jab, before winter sets in.
To find out more
please drop in, visit
our website
www.thepharmacy.org.uk
or call us on
01642 530304
SEPT/OCT 2014
Sport
Hartlepool Sixth Form College
has achieved Continuous Outstanding Academic Success for the last eight years
– with the highest A Level Pass rate in the area of 99.8% for 2013
Meet the academy team at
elitesport@hsfc
HARTLEPOOL SIXTH FORM COLLEGE
IT’S NOT TOO LATE
TO ENROL
99% 100% 298*
A level pass
rate
BTEC pass
rate
25
Star grades
this year
Continuous Outstanding Academic Success A 30 year tradition that money can't buy!
It’s not too late to enrol at the top performing
college in the area!
elitesport@hsfc has established itself as one of the best sporting programmes in the region, with over 200
students qualifying for national championships in recent years and also forming part of the colleges academy
programme. A combination of academic excellence and performance sport has seen huge growth in the
academies and if you look at the quality and pedigree of our academy coaching team its clear to see why. Not
only do our students progress to top sporting universities to continue their studies, many also achieve sporting
excellence and develop their performance to excellent levels with sport forming an integral part of their college
lives. Below are some profiles of the coaching team. Please note that even if we don’t run an academy in your
chosen sport, anyone of county standard or above will receive athlete support and a benefits package to help you
achieve to the maximum.
Chris Hyndman: Academy and Elite Athlete Manager
Former England U18/20 and Northampton Saints rugby player, Chris is the elite athlete mentor in the college.
Due to his elite level background Chris knows what it takes to reach the very top of your chosen sport. His
ability to motivate and ‘pinpoint’ areas for improvement with athletes has helped guide many of the college’s
alumni to where they are now with regards to their chosen sport. Chris is also the head coach of the college’s
rugby academy which has established itself as one of the best programmes in the area. His ability as a coach
not only resides in rugby but across a range of sports where he challenges the athletes involved and creates an
environment is which they can flourish. In recent years, academy graduates have gained elite sports scholarships
to many higher education establishments such as Durham University and also to South Africa with the famous
Natal Sharks Academy.
Contact the college:
TWITTER.COM/HPOOLSFC
FACEBOOK.COM/HPOOLSFC
Tel: 01429 294444
Email: hsfc@hpoolsfc.ac.uk
web: www.hpoolsfc.ac.uk
Brinkburn, Blakelock Road
Hartlepool, TS25 5PF
Willie Boland- Football Academy Elite Team Coach:
Willie has a vast amount of experience in the game and is currently completing his UEFA
A Licence. During his professional career he played in the Premier League for Coventry
City making 60 appearances. He also played for Cardiff City and was involved in their
promotion season 2002-03 and voted the clubs player of the year. After finishing his
career in Hartlepool he coached as part of the centre of excellence for Hartlepool United
and now coaches at the Middlesbrough Centre of Excellence with age groups 14-16 years
old. Willie’s philosophy is to get the ball on the ground and play and he adopts this same
methodology to all sessions within the college academy structure with a real focus on the
technical development of players.
Dave Newton - Football Academy Development Team Coach:
Dave is Chairman of Greatham Community Football Club which is highly regarded
as one of the best Community Clubs in the North East. He has a wealth of experience in
coaching from ages 6-18 and is currently involved in the Hartlepool United Development
Centre for young players. Dave has recently completed a number of FA youth modules
and specific FA professional development courses and works alongside Willie Boland in
creating a programme where players of all abilities will flourish.
Tom Heselton- Sports Scientist and Lindsay Johnson
Academy for Girl’s Football Coach:
Tom is a Loughborough University Sports Science graduate and ex pupil of the college.
Whilst completing his degree Tom worked as an assistant coach to the Loughborough
Men’s and Women’s football teams and due to his skills and abilities was offered a role as
Sports Scientist and Analyst to the Antigua and Barbuda Men’s International Team in their
build up to the World Cup of 2014. On completion of this role Tom moved back to the
area and is now the colleges sports Scientist, working specifically with all our scholars and
teams in aspects such as strength and conditioning, preparation and recovery. Tom also
provides Physio and Sports Science Support to Hartlepool United Youth Team. The girls
programme is also overseen and designed in conjunction with Lindsay Johnson, current
Everton Ladies player and ex England International. Lindsay visits the college whenever
she can to deliver sessions to the squad.
It is not too late to enrol for September 2014 – you can register
your interest at www.hpoolsfc.ac.uk, or ring us on 01429 294444
@HSFC_SPORT
@HSFC_SPORT
26
Sport
SEPT/OCT 2014
Marie Lithgo - Head Netball Coach
Marie is Head Netball Coach of the colleges prestigious Netball Academy and has made a
huge impact since taking over in 2013. Marie is currently coaching at an elite level and as well as
being the Head Coach at the college she is also British Army Head Coach, South Durham and
Cleveland County Head Coach and a qualified England Netball tutor and coach assessor. It’s safe
to say that if you want to develop as a player you are in very safe hands and the college run an
elite and development team each year. Marie has also captained the Army and Tri-services teams.
A Few words from
our Students
Luke Wilson (St Michaels School, Billingham)
I had an exceptional 2 years at the college. They helped me develop
as a Rugby Player whilst also gaining a BTEC Extended Diploma in
Sports Science at D*D*D*. I had the opportunity to play at National
Championships during both years as we were regional champions
Dan Marshall (Northfield School, Billingham)
Dan swam the final of both events and set a PB in the 200 freestyle
finishing 4th from all college students in the country. This was done in
front of a packed out swimming arena at Bath University. Due to his
performance this year Dan has been awarded a scholarship next year
at the college and will benefit from all of the extra support that this
brings. Dan said,
‘I really enjoyed Nationals and it added to the many competitions
that I take part in as a Middlesbrough ASC swimmer. It was also
great to set a PB whilst down there and the level of competition
was higher than I expected. It was also great to be part of a team
of fellow athletes and the morale and atmosphere was something I will always remember. I hope to qualify next year and go
a few places better. I am also part of the elite athlete support
programme and would recommend the college to any aspiring
athlete’.
Johan Olkers - Forwards Coach (Rugby)
Johan grew up in South Africa and played professional rugby for Blue Bulls Rugby Union in
Pretoria. He has also played professionally in Ireland as well as holding Head Coach positions
in University and Professional clubs in both South Africa and England. He has a wealth of
experience in coaching forwards play and has spent a lot of time developing his coaching
knowledge as well as holding the prestigious position as forwards coach for Pumas Rugby Union
who compete in the Premier Division of the Currie Cup in South Africa. Being a recent addition
to the coaching team, we are very excited to welcome someone of Johan’s pedigree and are sure
that you will benefit from his excellent knowledge of the game.
Puzzles & Fun
SUDOKU
EASY
HARD
visit our website for answers - www.billinghamcommunitynewspaper.co.uk
It is not too late to enrol for
September 2014 – you can register
your interest at www.hpoolsfc.ac.uk,
or ring us on 01429 294444
ALPHA-SEARCH
KIDS WORDSEARCH
Each word ends in C
Can you find the hidden words? They may be
horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
Can you find the hidden words? They may be
horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
AQUATIC, ATOMIC, ATTIC, BASIC, CLASSIC, CLINIC, COMIC,
COSMIC, CRITIC, DISC, EPIC, FABRIC, GARLIC, HEROIC, LOGIC,
LYRIC, MAGIC, MEDIC, MIMIC, MUSIC, MYSTIC, PANIC, PICNIC,
RELIC, SONIC, TONIC, TOPIC, TOXIC, TRAGIC, ZINC.
ALBATROSS, BEAR, CAMEL, CHEETAH, CROCODILE,
DOLPHIN, EAGLE, ELEPHANT, HORSE, KANGAROO,
LEOPARD, LIZARD, MONKEY, OCTOPUS, PELICAN,
PENGUIN, RABBIT, SNAKE, SQUIRREL, WHALE.
SEPT/OCT 2014
27
Sport
Junior Stars Shine at England Camp
The England Under 14 Ice Hockey team held a two day intensive camp at
Swindon recently competing against the best young talent in the country.
Ethan Hehir, Alex Kelly and James Hellens were all successful in gaining a
place in the England u14 squad – This is a fantastic achievement for the players
and the Junior Club at Billingham.
The players were originally noticed by the England sectors when competing
in Hull at the National Conference Championships on the May Bank Holiday
weekend. All three were part of the Northern Conference u13s who finished as
unbeaten champions, from this the players were invited to the England trial at
Swindon.
The boys started to play ice hockey at 4 to 5 years of age, with Alex and
Ethan at Billingham and James with Newcastle. All three players are extremely
hard working and Tees Active are extremely happy to support them in their
continued development at both club and international level. Each player will
bring different attributes to the England Squad:
Alex is a Net-Minder who is very strong on his skates and impresses with his
speed and agility, he finished in the top three Net-Minders at the Conference
Finals with a 91.49% save average.
James transferred from Whitley Bay last season and moved into a more
defensive role, he has a very strong physical presence coupled with an offensive
flair that will lead to goals. James led the scoring in the Billingham U14s last
season.
Ethan is a very passionate on attack, a superb forward who is known for his
finishing ability particularly around the net area. This is the second outing for
Ethan at England level as he represented the u13s last year travelling to Quebec.
We wish the boys every success in this coming season and hope they enjoy
their experiences in Europe scheduled for February and April 2015.
Billingham Forum Junior stars have gone from strength to strength, from
entry levels in Learn to Play, all the way through u10s, u12s, u14s, u16s and
u18s, boosting excellent facilities with support available to help all our young
stars reach their potential in this very demanding sport. Any youngsters
wishing to try this exciting sport for the first time can do so on Sundays at the
Left to right, Ethan Hehir , Alex Kelly, James Hellens
Billingham Forum : 4:15pm to 5:30pm contact venue for pricing / conditions
Billingham
Five A Side
League
Busy Billingham
Town FC
Well it’s been another busy couple of month at the club,
the shelter for disabled supporters has been installed so
the game can be watched under cover, this improvement
was funded by Middlesbrough & Teesside Philanthropic
Foundation for which we are very grateful.
The new season kicked off in August and at that first
game we launched over 140 balloons in our 1st balloon
release, so far the only tag to be returned has been from
Cowpen Lane – we’re sure that at least one balloon must
have travelled further than that!!!! The first game also saw
the introduction of our new mascot Billy the Bear, we are
confident we are the only team playing at this level to have
a club mascot.
To help raise funds and be more sustainable, we raffled off
the name of the ground in pre-season training, a lot of local
companies supported this initiative but the winner was
Evolution Valves, so for the rest of the season our ground
will be known as ‘The Evolution Arena’. Many thanks to
everyone who supported us throughout our fundraising.
The first player of the month for this season was Joel
Callander, this award is being sponsored by Peking Garden
in Stockton. Each month they are kindly offering a meal for
two and a drink each for the player receiving this award.
Our next fundraiser, is our Show of the Month being held
on 4th October 2014, we have local singer Danny Stevens
entertaining us, tickets are £2 and available at the club or
via a committee .
On the pitch the team has made a steady start to the
season after 6 games they have drawn 4 and lost 2, the early
fixtures were seen as a difficult start, so to come through
that with 4 draws is seen as steady progress after last season.
We have also had Wynyard Juniors lead the teams out and
take half time penalties against Billy the bear which the kids
loved, if any junior teams, schools or local groups would
like to do the same contact us via our website
Our club is family friendly, if you’ve never been to one
of our games take time to pop along for a look, you will
receive a warm welcome and might just be bitten by the
local football bug!
Billingham Synthonia Under 9’s Charity Day
Martin Bennington, Manager of Billingham Synthonia Under 9’s football club hosted a charity
event at SRC Bede 6th Form to fundraise for Rebecca Henderson, who is currently undergoing
treatment at Newcastle RVI. Raising over £1000 on the day, Martin wants to send thanks to all who
helped and supported by donations or purchases, or simply turning up and supporting the occasion.
Special thanks to Andy Collett, Gary Skyes, Phil Laverick, Grassroots Community, MFC Foundation
and Tesco Distribution Centre for their support. Pictured are the Under 9’s all with their medals
presented on the day for helping throughout the fundraiser.
In the opening game of the new season
newly promoted Blue Bells, Newton
Bewley eased past Monkey Hangers
with an 8v2 win to open their campaign.
Station Plastering took an early at the
top of the table sinking Swans 11v3.
Last season’s league champions, Barwick
Rangers, continued their unbeaten run
against Scouting For Goals winning
their match 6v2. In the final game of the
night promoted Pinpoint Recruitment
found Motortech a tough prospect
losing 2v4. The first games in the second
division are played at SRC Bede Sports
Hall, on Marsh House Avenue, from
7.00 p.m. on Sunday 14 September.
Diesel Centre, Eston open against new
team Farcelona. Relegated Spartans
then play Half A Crown followed by
The Wanderers & P.A.C.S. New team
Teesside Wanderers play Billingham Fire
to complete the fixtures.
For more information on fixtures,
results & news please visit our website
www.billinghamfiveasideleague.co.uk
or follow us on Facebook or
Twitter @b5side
If you have sports
stories please
email us at:
28
Sport
Comets are Ice Hockey’s
British Masters Champions
Cleveland Comets travelled to Nottingham to take part in the
British Masters (Over 35) tournament at the weekend and posted an
impressive 8 game unbeaten streak to lift the Championship Trophy
With a number of former Bombers, Stars and Wasps players in
their lineup there was occasions when the games resembled a replay
of the former Heineken League’s heyday as players from Blackpool,
Durham, Grimsby, Solihull, Milton Keynes and Nottingham faced
each other 20yrs further down the line.
Though the pace may not have been as fast as those glory days
the skill was still evident for all to see with the passion for the game
shining through.
Comets posted an impressive first day in the group stages as the
won all four games to top their group and most importantly secure
the no 1 ranking for Sunday’s championship games.
Opening against their derby rivals Durham Dragons, Comets
shared the spoils with a 2-2 tie.
Comets went into the second game to destroy Grimsby Lightning
with an emphatic 4-0 win to get their title challenge back on track.
It all looked to be in vain as Blackpool Seagulls led by a single goal
from their Canadian star Dave Anthony but with just 2 secs left
Simon Hehir proved why he was named forward of the tournament
as he rifled the puck into the roof of the net for the equalizer. That
draw keeping Comets hopes alive.
.The Comets went into their final game knowing they had to
win by a 5 goal margin to secure the Championship and although
Nottingham may have been in their own building and with the
majority of the crowd behind them, Comets outstanding team work
came shining through.
The home net was peppered by shots as Comets gave every last
ounce of effort in search for goals. The first 3 came pretty quickly as
Cleveland raced into a 3-0 lead. With their own hopes of victory now
gone Nottingham had every intent of spoiling Comets party
Stout defending, excellent net minding and the pipework
continually denied the Comets assault on Nottingham’s net, Goal no
4 came with 9 mins left and seemed to lift Cleveland’s tiring limbs A
last gasp push saw Tony Boynton pick out Simon Hehir who finished
clinically to secure the Masters Championship title for the jubilant
Comets.
SEPT/OCT 2014
British Gas
National Swimming
Championships 2014
Billingham ASC swimmer Stephanie Blakeburn has
returned from The British Gas National Swimming
Championships in Sheffield as National Champion in the
200 metres individual medley event. Stephanie stormed to
victory in the 200 metres individual medley final to win the
gold medal in a super new personal best time.
Stephanie had qualified for the final in first place where
she had to beat off strong opposition, including Olympic
medalist Kerry –Anne Payne, to win the gold medal taking 2
seconds off her previous best time. Stephanie later received
accreditation from The Amateur Swimming Association and
was named as swimmer of the day in The Championships.
Three days later, Stephanie was back on the medal podium
again, winning the bronze medal in 200 metres butterfly in
another hotly contested race. Stephanie had qualified for the
final in fourth place and powered her way to win the bronze
medal in the final.
Throughout the week Stephanie competed in a total of
seven events setting personal best times and also reaching
the finals of 400 metres freestyle, 100 metres butterfly and
freestyle.
Head Coach Guy Fawkes was delighted with Stephanie’s
impressive swimming results. He said that this has been
a particularly tough year for Steph, combining a full time
degree course at Teesside University with her demanding
training schedule. Steph has managed to balance both with
excellent results. It is wonderful to see her end the swimming
year crowned as National Champion.
Billingham
Stars are
ready to take
on all-comers
ULTIMATE
WELCOME TO
windows & conservatories
Est. 1988
After a busy summer of transfers and
competition format changes, Billingham Stars
are ready to take on all-comers as they look
to avoid three seasons on the spin without a
trophy. The Teessiders have seen quite a few
comings and goings throughout the summer
- Canadian Thomas Stuart-Dant and Chris
Sykes - both high-scoring forwards - signed
from League rivals Sutton Sting, whilst
Billingham-born defenseman Tom Keeley
returns after three years playing in North
America.
Billingham have made sure that they have a
squad large enough to cope with the rigours of
a long campaign by retaining the bulk of last
season’s team. The National Ice Hockey League
North competition has reverted to a Division
1 and 2 format, plus the Stars will compete in
the new Challenge Cup, a competition that
will see Billingham take on four teams from
Billingham Removals
the higher level English Premier League –
Manchester Phoenix, Peterborough Phantoms,
Sheffield Steeldogs and Telford Tigers.
The Stars are delighted to be welcoming back
main sponsors Ultimate Windows for another
season. Fans are able to ensure both entry and
their favourite seat is secure by purchasing a
season ticket – these are still available priced at
£135 adults, £90 concessions and £440 family
(2+2) and cover all League and Cup fixtures.
Crossword
Across
1. Nil (4)
3. Cask (6)
8. Security device (7)
9. Water barrier (3)
10. Terse (4)
11. Rudderless (6)
13. Technical terminology (6)
15. Zealous (4)
18. Written record of events (3)
19. Countries (7)
21. Currency unit (6)
22. Labyrinth (4)
Down
1. Fastner (3)
2. Detection instrument (5)
4. Japanese martial art (6)
5. Armbones (5)
6. Restricted (7)
7. Adult male swan (3)
10. Coaxed (7)
12. Part of the eye (6)
14. Majestic (5)
16. Stringed instrument (5)
17. Consumed (3)
20. Litigate (3)

thirlwells - Billingham Community Newspaper

Transcription

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