March 2010 - Adobe PDF - Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

news
<strong>Stockton</strong>
<strong>March</strong>/April <strong>2010</strong>
The community magazine of <strong>Stockton</strong> Borough Council

4
Economic Regeneration and Transport
Regeneration to the tune of £500 Million will bring about benefits to housing, schools, medical services, leisure facilities and
transport. We look at some here. You can read about more on our Environment and Housing and Children and Young People pages.
British Waterways has standard facility at the Tees, will use river water to
London 2012 Olympic Games
appointed contractor JN attracting world class events generate electricity making it and Paralympic Games.
and athletes from around the the UK’s first fully sustainable
Bentley to start the multimillion
pound upgrade to
pound world class upgrade
globe.
white water course.
Funding for the multi million
the white water course. The improvements involve Work on the new, bigger has been secured from
reconfiguring the main canoe storage building has Regional Development Agency
Meldrum Construction will course, building a second already commenced.
One North East, <strong>Stockton</strong>
also construct a new £235K shorter course and installing
Council, Sport England and
canoe storage building as part four massive Archimedes The upgraded course will British Waterways. The new
of the overall redevelopment. screws, to pump the water be a catalyst for wider
£235k canoe storage building
needed to create conditions regeneration opportunities is funded through Sport
The plans will see
for canoeists, rafters and along the River Tees corridor. England Community Club
improvements to the existing other sports activities.
The site has already been Development Programme and
white water course and
confirmed as a Pre-Games Canoe England.
create an international The four Archimedes screws Training Camp ahead of the
The Tees Valley is set The first phase of the Tees Valley
to benefit from more Metro due to start in <strong>2010</strong> is
designed to link the main centres
than £100 million
together using the existing rail
of investment in its
network and pave the way for a
transport network over future tram-train metro system.
the next three years.
This phase would include
new platforms at Darlington
The breakdown looks like this:
and Middlesbrough stations;
• A £62 million investment in
relocation of the existing
the Tees Valley bus network
station at Durham Tees Valley
• A £35 million investment in
Airport; station improvements
the first phase of the Tees
at Eaglescliffe, Thornaby and
Valley Metro project
Hartlepool and new stations
• A £5 million contribution
at James Cook University
towards the East Billingham
Hospital and one in Redcar
Transport Corridor scheme
and Cleveland. Keep up to
• A £4 million innovative
date with the scheme on the
traffic management scheme
Councils’ websites or visit www.
on the A19 and A66
connectteeesvalley.com
26
Think of Adult Education Canoe Union where you will
- it might conjure up receive expert tuition by fully
qualified instructors.
images classrooms
and flower arranging, Learning these great sills in
pottery or learning a such a tremendous location is
new language - but
so exciting and can lead onto
bigger and better challenges.
very soon, right here in For example, imagine being
<strong>Stockton</strong>, you can leave able to try out your new skills
the classroom behind and at the Tees Barrage White
get out on to the River Water Course - due to be open
towards the end of the year!
Tees with some fantastic
water sport courses. You could learn a new skill to
take with you on holiday and
Starting in early May, at the rule the waves as absolutely
Castlegate Quay Watersports everything is provided. All you
Centre, just off the Riverside need to bring is a change of
Road, you can try your hand at clothes and bags of enthusiasm!
sailing, canoeing and kayaking
for beginners, as Tees Active Application packs will soon be
Ltd with Tees Achieve bring the available from Tees Achieve - to
fantastic courses through Adult find out more or to register,
Education.
give them a ring on (01642)
527904 or if you have any
The six week courses, to be held questions on the scheme
on evenings between 5.30pm – contact Castlegate Quay
7.30pm are through the Royal Watersports Centre on (01642)
Yachting Association and British 528689.
Arts, Culture and Leisure
<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Work to the ice rink
Page 5
Work progresses on the
Forum in Billingham and
major strip out works
are now complete with
the building now being
prepared for the renewal
of the fixtures and fittings.
The external works have
progressed with the vibrant
colour scheme of the insulated
panels and inside walls are
now being built to set out the
internal layout of the complex.
You can see monthly updates
of work on the Forum in the
foyer of the old art gallery in
Billingham town centre which
show progress from when the
work started. You can also visit
the Council’s website at
www.stockton.gov.uk/
newlookforum or www.
billingham-forum.co.uk
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council and NHS
podiatry, heart clinics and dermatology If they go ahead, adult education services
<strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees are continuing (exact services to be determined) currently provided in the Community
• Three GPs
Centre would move to purpose-built
preparations to create a multimillion
pound integrated health • <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Customer Service sites.
• Library
accommodation in one of the two new
centre in Billingham.
Centre
• Resource rooms
Although not yet finalised, if feasible the
This includes work to secure the £35
plans would bring further investment to
million Private Finance Initiative (PFI) The state-of-the-art centre is proposed for Billingham, linking strongly with the Town
credits from the Department of Health, the current site of Billingham’s Council Centre, the £15 million refurbished Forum
allocated in principle to the Council for Offices and former art gallery. Services and John Whitehead Park.
the scheme.
currently located here would move into
the new facilities or existing Council The Council is already talking to
The facility would offer a whole range of buildings.
Community Centre staff and users to
integrated Health and Social Care services
ensure their continuing input to the
including:
The PFI Credits would also pay for an Extra proposals. And the Council’s Planning
• Adults and children’s integrated Care scheme with 50 two-bedroom units in Committee has considered a planning
service area (social services)
Billingham Town Centre, proposed for the brief, setting out the broad principles for
• Integrated PCT care services related to site of Billingham Community Centre and site development.
adjacent car park.
12
The national 10:10 campaign, to see everyone
reduce their carbon emissions by 10 per cent in
<strong>2010</strong>, continues. And cutting carbon has the handy
benefit of saving money too!
More than 150 Council staff signed up to the scheme in just
four days, with others following.
And now we’re asking you to get involved.
It’s easy to save money by reducing your emissions – turning
down the thermostat by one degree, leaving the car at home
for short journeys and not leaving appliances switched on are
just some of the simple things anyone can do. Keep the top
tips on the outside back page and see how many you can do.
It couldn’t be easier to register your commitment to 10:10,
just visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/1010 and log in your details.
Neil Ellison, Environment Expert for <strong>Stockton</strong> Council, said:
”Some might question what difference cutting their emissions
by 10 per cent will really make. Well I can tell them, it makes
a huge difference!
“No one person, company, government or country can stop
climate change alone, it’s up to us all to take responsibility
and make small, simple changes to our lifestyles. All these
tiny savings soon add up and, if the whole Borough reduced
our emissions by 10 per cent, the impact will be enormous.
“Of course, some people still don’t believe in climate change
and I’m not going to argue with them now. But I’ll say this
– reducing emissions by saving energy also saves you money.
Surely that’s another good reason for joining 10:10?”
Neil Ellison, with the 1010 pledge.
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s beautiful
Ropner Park is there
for everyone to enjoy
especially now its café,
run by “The Friends”,
is open again after
a short break for
redecorating.
To tempt your tastebuds all
the food is home made on
the premises. The popular
mid-week lunches are now
being served on Wednesdays.
Cafe ‘specials’ are advertised
in and around the cafe.
The Friends of Ropner Park
is a registered charity which
encourages people to use
and enjoy the Park. Any
spare money from the café
and events helps improve
facilities and entertainment
in the park. The next major
project is the preparation of
a scented garden around the
bandstand.
Get families playing tennis
together is the aim of a six-week
tennis coaching programme at
Ropner Park, <strong>Stockton</strong>.
There is a choice of two one-hour sessions
each Sunday – either 10 or 11am – at the
outdoor tennis courts on the following
dates:
• 6 June - 11 July
• 18 July - 22 August
• 29 August - 3 October
No need to worry if you don’t have a tennis
racquet as all equipment is provided. At
just £2 per session, the six week programme
costs adults a total of £12. Children
accompanied by a participating adult take
part for free and must be eight years old or
over to join in.
To book your place, call (01642) 524964 or
email jonathan.hart@stockton.gov.uk
Environment and Housing
This summer,
<strong>Stockton</strong> is proud
to be representing
the UK in Europe’s
biggest Environment
competition – ‘Entente
Florale <strong>2010</strong>’.
The honour follows our
national success in the
2009 Britain in Bloom
Competition, when
<strong>Stockton</strong> won the ‘best information.
city’.
As 2009 winners, we are
not permitted entry into
this year’s Britain in Bloom
Competition and would
need to be nominated in
future years to represent
our region. As such the
Royal Horticultural Society
(RHS) has nominated
<strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees to
represent the UK in the
prestigious Entente Florale.
Countries participating
include Austria, Belgium,
Croatia, Czech Republic,
France, Germany,
Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the
Netherlands and Slovenia.
We expect the international
jury, to visit <strong>Stockton</strong> late
July or early August.
The competition aims to
improve quality of life for
communities. So <strong>Stockton</strong>
must show how it engages
with its local communities
to achieve a green,
sustainable and colourful
<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
town and promotes
environmental awareness.
If you are a resident,
member of a community
group or business
and interested in
becoming involved in
the competition, please
contact Care For Your
Area on (01642) 391959 or
email careforyourarea@
stockton.gov.uk for further
<strong>Stockton</strong> has entered the
Northumbria in Bloom
Competition for more
than 30 years - being
overall winner in the
Best City category for
six consecutive years.
Now it’s our privilege
to be asked to host this
year’s award ceremony
in September when 400
guests will attend from
across the North East
region. The competition
was also launched in
<strong>Stockton</strong> in early <strong>March</strong>.
Page 27
Sign up for tax
savings
Sports clubs are being urged
not to miss out on the chance
to get a boost from the tax
man and share in a multimillion
pound windfall by
registering for tax savings.
The Community Amateur Sports
Club (CASC) scheme enables
amateur sports clubs to benefit
from a range of tax advantages
including:
• Mandatory relief for 80 per
cent of the total business
rates bill;
• Reclaiming Gift Aid on
donations from individuals
• Exemption from Corporation
Tax on profits if annual
income is under £30,000 per
year;
To be eligible, clubs must
encourage participation in a
qualifying sport, be open to
the whole community without
discrimination, and ensure
profits go back into the club,
benefiting sport.
To find out more visit www.
hmrc.gov.uk/casc/index.htm or
call 0845 3020 203.
Rate relief for
sports clubs
Local not-for-profit sporting
organisations and sports
clubs who pay rates for their
premises to the Council are
being urged to put pen to
paper and apply now for
National Non-Domestic Rate
Relief (NNDRR).
Rate relief can provide great
help for sports organisations and
clubs managing their running
costs. Many organisations across
the Borough have benefited
from this fund so get in touch to
make sure you don’t miss out.
Download an application form
from www.stockton.gov.uk/
nndrr or call (01642) 526690 or
email trevor.massey@stockton.
gov.uk
<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong> Page 13
The Smart EV cars like the one pictured were adapted to
run on a battery and can be charged from a normal power
socket. Able to hit a top speed of 60mph and travel more
than 50 miles on a full charge, they were perfect for the short
distance journeys council staff often make.
Neil Ellison, Environment Expert for <strong>Stockton</strong> Council, said:
“People really liked driving the electric cars. They’re quiet,
nippy and really easy to drive.
“We used two at the Council and based the other two
with partner organisations. After each journey, technical
information was recorded, as well as the driver’s views.
Cenex can now assess the results to see how electric cars
perform in a working environment.
“All the major car manufacturers are developing electric
and electric-hybrid cars, with volume production worldwide
beginning very soon. Data from this trial will aid the
During February the Council was loaned four
automotive industry in producing effective vehicles with realworld
performance and range.”
electric cars as part of a trial scheme to assess
the practicality and acceptability of using electric The Council will soon be installing electric car charge
vehicles in the workplace and for commuting.
points at public locations throughout the Borough as part of
a government and industry supported scheme to install 620
Cenex - the national Centre of Excellence for low-carbon points across the North East by the end of <strong>2010</strong>. More on this
technology coordinated the trial in the Region.
in future editions of <strong>Stockton</strong> News.
The Council’s Cabinet has agreed has demolished more than 200 properties
ambitious housing regeneration and built 80 new homes there.
proposals to transform two Swainby Road residents consulted in
<strong>Stockton</strong> neighbourhoods.
October overwhelmingly supported
demolition proposals.
Following consultation with residents
and landlords the boundary for the During the consultation, 119 people
existing Parkfield Mill Lane housing responded with 99 per cent in favour
regeneration scheme will be extended, of the regeneration plans. At the heart
by extending the boundary in Phase 2 to of the scheme is an opportunity for
Dovecot Street.
residents affected to be initially rehoused
and then given priority to return by
The 152 households in the area included moving into new homes once built.
in the proposed extension received a
hand delivered letter with details of all The area is also soon to benefit from
the proposals and were invited to oneto-one
sessions with staff from <strong>Stockton</strong> academy for secondary school children,
multi million investment in a new
Council to talk through any queries or state-of-the-art youth facilities for young
concerns they may have.
people at Myppace and an additional 330
new high-quality homes on the former
This is the latest development in the Hills Joinery site.
£60 million regeneration masterplan for
Parkfield Mill Lane. When the Council’s Julie Nixon, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Head of
Cabinet first approved the demolition Housing, said: “<strong>Stockton</strong> Council has
boundary in 2005, many residents
an ambitious housing regeneration
just outside the boundary voiced
programme throughout the Borough
disappointment they were not in it. and is committed to ensuring that all its
residents enjoy good quality housing in
85 per cent of residents and landlords safe, well designed neighbourhoods.
affected and of these 82 per cent were in
favour of the plans.
Together, these two schemes could create
more than 600 jobs for local people.
The Council’s ambitious 15 to 20 year
plans for the Parkfield Mill Lane area <strong>Stockton</strong> Council continues to work
aim to transform it into a thriving
on the successful, ambitious housing
residential neighbourhood and, to date, regeneration plans at Hardwick and
Mandale where, to date, more than 1,200
properties have been demolished and
more than 1,000 residents successfully
relocated into new high-quality housing.
Annie Collins, a resident of Swainby Road who
will benefit from the scheme.
contents
<strong>March</strong>/April <strong>2010</strong>
Welcome
to the new look <strong>Stockton</strong> News
Use the colour coding system to make finding
what you’re interested in even easier. Here are
some of the highlights...
News Round Up 2
Economic Regeneration and Transport 4
Environment and Housing 10
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Improving the Borough with £500 million
<strong>Stockton</strong> Borough is set to change over the next decade.
Step closer for world class water course
Better connected
The Forum
– sneak
preview
Work continues on health centre plans
The Forum
sneak
preview
Page 5
Community Safety 15
Children and Young People 20
Adults Services 24
<strong>Stockton</strong> to
represent
the UK
Page 12
<strong>Stockton</strong>
10:10
takes off
<strong>Stockton</strong> to represent the UK!
<strong>Stockton</strong>
plays host
Ohms, James
Ambitious housing plans agreed
Arts, Culture and Leisure 25
Strong Communities 28
Health and Wellbeing 33
<strong>Stockton</strong>
We are sailing... and you could be too!
Spring season in Ropner Park
Families for tennis?
Top money
saving tips for
sports clubs
We are
sailing and
you could
be too
Your Council 37
Focus On Your Area 40
Page 26
What’s On 44
<strong>Stockton</strong> News is published by <strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees Borough Council
and distributed to households across the Borough free of charge.
Editor: Vince Rutland, Deputy Editor: Jacky Stevely. To contact
the editorial team or if you have not received a copy please call
(01642) 526098 or e-mail communications@stockton.gov.uk
It aims to provide news and information about the Council, its partner
organisations, and local community groups and businesses. Every effort is
made to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of
publication. Your views and comments are welcome.
<strong>Stockton</strong> News is produced by <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Communications Unit
and designed by Bridge Design Group. Pictures courtesy of the Evening
Gazette, Peter Mernagh and other sources.
There is an audio version of <strong>Stockton</strong> News.
Please call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or e-mail
communications@stockton.gov.uk

2
news
News
<strong>Stockton</strong>
With the worst of the winter
behind us our highways
teams are now busy assessing
the impact of the harsh
weather and are working flat
out on the many repairs to
roads and pavements that will
be needed.
Our attention this month has been
particularly focussed on agreeing the medium
term financial plan for the next three years.
You can read in this edition about the many
issues we have been balancing to meet
the growing demands for services with the
fact that we are operating in very difficult
financial times. As always our absolute
commitment to delivering value for money
sits at the heart of everything that we do.
I am also pleased to see significant progress in
many of the projects making up the massive
programme of investment in the Borough.
You can read in the regeneration pages about
some of the highlights of the investment
in schools, leisure facilities, transport and
housing. We’ll keep bringing you updates as
these exciting projects continue to take shape
over the coming years.
Round Up
You’re hired!
Council praised for
apprenticeship success
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council has won praise from the
Communities Secretary for its commitment to
providing apprenticeships for young people.
Government figures show <strong>Stockton</strong> has one apprentice for
every 61 members of staff – one of the highest rates in the
North East. Boosting this news, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council is to receive
£24,000 to fund horticultural apprentices to maintain the
Borough’s greenspaces and parks.
Tees Achieve – previously the Council’s Training and
Employment Services – educates and seeks employment
for over-16s, encouraging local businesses to look at
the possibility of employment and training by offering
apprenticeships.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council supports apprentices who are training in a
whole range of services. For information, call (01642) 528261
or email tes@stockton.gov.uk
Finally I’d like to congratulate the many
young people who we’ve recognised
throughout this edition of <strong>Stockton</strong> News.
I’m struck by the wide range of their
achievements in apprenticeship schemes,
volunteering, sport, music
and community work.
It’s heartening to see
so much potential,
enthusiasm and
commitment in our
young people.
The new horticultural apprentices will join Care for Your Area staff looking
after the Borough’s parks while gaining skills and training.
Council keeps budget on course
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council has ratified proposals for an annual
Council tax rise of two per cent – half of what the Council
originally planned in last year’s budget.
Neil Schneider
Chief Executive, <strong>Stockton</strong> Borough Council
Thanks to putting in place long term financial planning
over a decade ago the Council has been able to weather
the recent downturn and has continued to provide
efficient services and value for money for the Borough’s
residents. To find out more visit page 39.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 3
Young volunteers
graduate with pride
Leven Bridge update
Investigation work into
the damage on Leven
Bridge, near Yarm,
showed major structural
damage.
The A1044 Low Lane/Leven
Bank Road has remained
closed since the discovery of
surface damage to the road
at the end of February.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council has
put in place alternative
arrangements for pupils,
travelling to Conyers School.
Two additional buses will be
used to collect pupils who
would normally be on the
second bus trip. Buses will
leave Ingleby Barwick five
minutes earlier each morning
and leave school at 3.50pm
until further notice.
(L-R) Stacy Wood, Danni Lorraine, Danny Mazey, Simon Miller, Jamie
Dutton, Michaela Hindmarsh and Tom Horrocks celebrate their awards.
Pioneering young people
have been rewarded
for their outstanding
volunteering work at
a special graduation
ceremony in London.
Eight <strong>Stockton</strong> volunteers,
aged 17-22, were among
the first ever to receive the
prestigious Prime Minister’s
Award for National Civic
Service, rewarding their
immense contribution to
children and young people
services.
The volunteers were part
of Talent Year, a national
scheme, launched last year
by the National Volunteers
Service. It saw the young
people contribute 30 hours
a week, for 44 weeks in
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Children
Services.
Hero’s tribute unveiled
A <strong>Stockton</strong> war hero who lost his life in Afghanistan
and was posthumously Mentioned in Dispatches has
been honoured with a commemorative bench on
the High Street.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council brought
in specialist marine
engineer divers to fully
assess the bridge and those
investigations revealed a
severe loss of scour under
the structure, causing it to be
unstable.
It is estimated these works
will take until May at the
earliest, during which time
the road will remain closed
to all traffic except for access.
Diversions are in place and
bus operators are aware of
the situation.
Richard McGuckin, <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s Acting Head of
Technical Services, said:
“The works to stabilise the
underside of the bridge will
be undertaken by specialist
marine engineers.
“We appreciate the
frustration felt by motorists
who may face delays at busy
times, but we would ask
them to bear with us while
these essential repairs are
carried out. Public safety is
our number one priority.”
The tribute to Sergeant Lee Johnson, 33, of the 2nd Battalion
The Yorkshire
Regiment, was installed
outside <strong>Stockton</strong> Parish
Church, where his
funeral took place.
The Green Howards
Association in
Thornaby raised funds
to pay for the bench
and its upkeep.
The soldier’s parents,
Sandra and Alan
Johnson (pictured),
were first to sit on the
specially made bench,
which bears a plaque
reading: ‘From friends
and family. Never
forgotten.’
The Hub is open
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s new centre
for active travel, The
Hub is open.
The Hub – a partnership
between the Council,
Sustrans and NHS <strong>Stockton</strong>on-Tees
– provides free cycle
storage, advice on walking
and cycling routes and cycle
maintenance classes.
The aim is to get more
people walking and cycling
as part of their everyday life.
Based on Bridge Road
in <strong>Stockton</strong> town centre
(opposite the Thomas
Sheraton pub), The Hub is
open from 7:30am – 6pm,
Monday to Friday. For more
information, call (01642)
803441.
To find out more about
cycling in the Borough, visit:
www.doitbycycle.com
A full report on the official
opening of The Hub will
appear in the next <strong>Stockton</strong>
News.

Improving the Boroug
4
news
Economic
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Regeneration and Transport
<strong>Stockton</strong> Borough is set to change over the next decade.
Regeneration to the tune of £500 Million will bring about benefits to housing, schools, medical services, leisure facilities and
transport. We look at some here. You can read about more on our Environment and Housing and Children and Young People pages.
Step closer for world class water course
British Waterways has
appointed contractor JN
Bentley to start the multimillion
pound upgrade to
the white water course.
Meldrum Construction will
also construct a new £235K
canoe storage building as part
of the overall redevelopment.
The plans will see
improvements to the existing
white water course and
create an international
standard facility at the Tees,
attracting world class events
and athletes from around the
globe.
The improvements involve
reconfiguring the main
course, building a second
shorter course and installing
four massive Archimedes
screws, to pump the water
needed to create conditions
for canoeists, rafters and
other sports activities.
The four Archimedes screws
Better connected
The Tees Valley is set
to benefit from more
than £100 million
of investment in its
transport network over
the next three years.
The breakdown looks like this:
• A £62 million investment in
the Tees Valley bus network
• A £35 million investment in
the first phase of the Tees
Valley Metro project
• A £5 million contribution
towards the East Billingham
Transport Corridor scheme
• A £4 million innovative
traffic management scheme
on the A19 and A66
The first phase of the Tees Valley
Metro due to start in <strong>2010</strong> is
designed to link the main centres
together using the existing rail
network and pave the way for a
future tram-train metro system.
This phase would include
new platforms at Darlington
and Middlesbrough stations;
relocation of the existing
station at Durham Tees Valley
Airport; station improvements
at Eaglescliffe, Thornaby and
Hartlepool and new stations
at James Cook University
Hospital and one in Redcar
and Cleveland. Keep up to
date with the scheme on the
Councils’ website or visit www.
connectteeesvalley.com
will use river water to
generate electricity making it
the UK’s first fully sustainable
white water course.
Work on the new, bigger
canoe storage building has
already commenced.
The upgraded course will
be a catalyst for wider
regeneration opportunities
along the River Tees corridor.
The site has already been
confirmed as a Pre-Games
Training Camp ahead of the
London 2012 Olympic Games
and Paralympic Games.
Funding for the multi million
pound world class upgrade
has been secured from
Regional Development Agency
One North East, <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council, Sport England and
British Waterways. The new
£235k canoe storage building
is funded through Sport
England Community Club
Development Programme and
Canoe England.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 5
h with £500 million
The Forum
– sneak
preview
Work progresses on the
Forum in Billingham and
major strip out works
are now complete with
the building now being
prepared for the renewal
of the fixtures and fittings.
The external works have
progressed with the vibrant
colour scheme of the insulated
panels and inside walls are
now being built to set out the
internal layout of the complex.
Work to the ice rink
You can see monthly updates
of work on the Forum in the
foyer of the old art gallery in
Billingham town centre which
show progress from when the
work started. You can also visit
the Council’s website at
www.stockton.gov.uk/
newlookforum or www.
billingham-forum.co.uk
Work continues on health centre plans
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council and NHS
<strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees are continuing
preparations to create a multimillion
pound integrated health
centre in Billingham.
This includes work to secure the £35
million Private Finance Initiative (PFI)
credits from the Department of Health,
allocated in principle to the Council for
the scheme.
The facility would offer a whole range of
integrated Health and Social Care services
including:
• Adults and children’s integrated
service area (social services)
• Integrated PCT care services related to
podiatry, heart clinics and dermatology
(exact services to be determined)
• Three GPs
• Library
• <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Customer Service
Centre
• Resource rooms
The state-of-the-art centre is proposed for
the current site of Billingham’s Council
Offices and former art gallery. Services
currently located here would move into
the new facilities or existing Council
buildings.
The PFI Credits would also pay for an Extra
Care scheme with 50 two-bedroom units in
Billingham Town Centre, proposed for the
site of Billingham Community Centre and
adjacent car park.
If they go ahead, adult education services
currently provided in the Community
Centre would move to purpose-built
accommodation in one of the two new
sites.
Although not yet finalised, if feasible the
plans would bring further investment to
Billingham, linking strongly with the Town
Centre, the £15 million refurbished Forum
and John Whitehead Park.
The Council is already talking to
Community Centre staff and users to
ensure their continuing input to the
proposals. And the Council’s Planning
Committee has considered a planning
brief, setting out the broad principles for
site development.

6
news
Economic
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Regeneration and Transport
Energy and
process
business
moves in
Status symbol
Costain, one of
the UK’s leading
engineering and
construction groups
has chosen to base
part of its operation in
<strong>Stockton</strong> as an element
of its specialist Energy
and Process division.
One of <strong>Stockton</strong>’s major
landmarks, Victoria
Bridge, (pictured) has
gained Grade ll Listed
status from the Secretary
of State for the
Department for Culture,
Media and Sport.
The bridge opened in 1887
to commemorate the Golden
Support at hand
In response to the
mothballing of the
Corus Teesside Cast
products plant, more
than £1 million is being
made available to help
individuals start their
own business, and
companies identify new
markets, through the
Tees Valley Industrial
Programme.
This financial support is
available to Tees Valley
residents and businesses
and, those affected by the
mothballing.
Now 90 per cent funding
(previously 70 per cent) will
be available for intensive
support for people who want
to start a business as well as
new businesses. Some new
businesses will also now be
able to benefit from the
Jubilee of Queen Victoria
and replaced an earlier
bridge of 1771. Designed by
Messrs H Haytor and Charles
Neate and built by Whitaker
Brothers of Leeds and cost
£69,051.
The money was raised
by local councils with
contributions from the
Tramway Company, North
expertise of universities and
colleges when developing
new products and processes
through a special voucher
scheme - previously only
available to established
businesses.
To help existing small and
medium businesses identify
opportunities and become
more innovative, competitive
and profitable, 50 per cent
funding will help them gain
advice and guidance to
develop new ideas, products
and services.
Mentoring support will also
be available for existing Tees
Valley businesses affected by
the economic downturn.
If you have been affected by
the Corus mothballing. or
you know someone who has,
and would like to find out
more please call Business Link
on 0845 600 9006.
Eastern Railway and the
Water Board.
The bridge has significant
constructional interest as an
increasingly rare survival of a
wrought iron arched bridge
with balustrade of cast iron.
It also displays a high level
of architectural quality in its
overall design, detailing and
use of materials.
It’s the business
Supporting small
businesses is at he
heart of an ongoing
commitment by <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council with the signing
of a new ‘Engagement
Accord’.
The Small Business
Engagement Accord is a
voluntary code of practice
produced by the Federation
of Small Businesses (FSB) for
local authorities in the North
East which looks to encourage
communication with local
businesses.
The FSB Accord has a number
of principles including early
stage consultation with
businesses; working with
Local Strategic Partnerships
to ensure they communicate
with business representative
organisations and nominating
representatives to act as
‘business engagement
champions’.
The company chose this
area because of the region’s
strong energy and process
industry cluster. This,
together with a pool of
highly skilled workers
will present an excellent
opportunity for Costain.
Initially the business will
employ 30 people based in
its office on Preston Farm
Industrial Estate.
Pauline Osborne, Regional
Chairman of The Federation
of Small Businesses (FSB),
said: “We are delighted
that <strong>Stockton</strong> Council has
signed the Small Business
Engagement Accord. This
is a clear indication that
the authority recognises
the importance of small
businesses.
To contact <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
Business Development Team,
call (01642) 528384 or email
business.enquiries@stockton.
gov.uk
Stop press!
New Range
As <strong>Stockton</strong> News went to
print excellent news came
through of a new outlet
coming to <strong>Stockton</strong> and
bringing with it 150 new
jobs. The Range, coming to
Portrack Lane Retail Park,
will open on Friday, 2 April
offering furniture, textiles,
garden, DIY and pet care.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 7
Celebrating 700 years
of <strong>Stockton</strong>’s Market
Affectionately known as ‘Queen of the North’ the
bustling <strong>Stockton</strong> market is at the heart of the
town and has been a regular feature of the High
Street for hundreds of years.
Many of our readers will remember the market from
their childhood and on Wednesday, 12 May, <strong>Stockton</strong> will
celebrate the 700th
anniversary of
the signing of the
charter allowing
the town to hold its
famous market.
The Charter, signed
by the Bishop
Bek, Bishop of
Durham, proudly
proclaimed: “To our
town of <strong>Stockton</strong> a
market upon every
Wednesday for
ever.”
This effectively
means it can
prevent rival
markets within six
and two third miles
– as the crow flies
– deemed to be as
far as a man with a
mule could travel to
market in a day.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Market from 1825
An extract from
the 1310 charter
says, “We have
ordained, granted
and appointed, and
by this our present
deed we do confirm
within the said
town of <strong>Stockton</strong>, a
market and fair at
certain times in the
year to be holden
with all things
which are known
to appear unto the <strong>Stockton</strong> Market today
market and fair,
namely market
upon every Wednesday for ever.”
The market flourishes each Wednesday and Saturday
with around 100 different stall spaces selling around 70
different types of goods.
You can choose from top quality fruit and vegetable stalls
to clothes and shoes, plus specialist items such as vacuum
cleaner parts to cards and gifts. Casual traders often turn
up hoping for a spot on the market and there’s a waiting
list for specialist traders.
Many of the established market traders who have retail
outlets or trade online still prefer to come and enjoy the
atmosphere of
<strong>Stockton</strong>.
James Glancey,
Town Centre
Manager, said:
“Our market has
been at the centre
of the town’s life
for an incredible
700 years and
remains a hugely
important part of
our lives.
“The market stalls
are out there, come
rain or shine. Some
stall holders have
been running their
businesses here for
years and know
their regulars by
name.
“We’ll be
celebrating
this landmark
anniversary
throughout the
year with special
events, farmer’s
markets and
more.”
Wednesday,
May 12 – Market
Celebration
Day!
Although the
signing of the
charter actually
took place on 11 May 1310, we’ll be celebrating the
occasion on Wednesday, May 12 (the town’s traditional
market day) with a host of fun events going on all day.
Get down early and soak up the atmosphere and see what
surprises we have in store!

8
news
Economic
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Regeneration and Transport
Entrepreneurs of the future
real business, the students then designed a company identity,
produced a business plan complete with financial planning
and came up with advertising ideas.
After a morning of hard work, three finalists were chosen
- Active Attitude, a company providing the school with
interactive dance classes and equipment rental; Design n Go,
a company providing personalised sports clothing for the
school’s clubs and classes; and Pure Plims, a company providing
personalised plimsolls from a crew of creative designers.
A team of ‘dragons’ made up of local business and enterprise
specialists listened to the creative and energetic pitches of the
three finalist teams. The teams faced a series of questions
about their businesses and all responded professionally and
effectively.
Active Attitude, the winners of the challenge
Year 10 pupils at Northfield School, Billingham,
recently had the chance to develop their talent and
start a real business in a special entrepreneurial
challenge day organised by <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
enterprise culture project.
Splitting into tutor groups, more than 70 students produced
company portfolios which set out ideas for businesses they
would like to see set up in their school. These included
stationary sales, exercise clubs and bicycle hire.
Working through all the stages they would need to set up a
The dragons chose Active Attitude as the winning team. They
will receive support and funding from the Council’s enterprise
culture project to set up their business over the coming
months.
Design n Go and Pure Plims were invited to resubmit their
ideas a group of local entrepreneurs and enterprise champions
to re apply for funding.
The day was hailed a great success and will be repeated in
April.
The Enterprise Culture Project is funded by <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
Communities Fund and the European Regional Development
Fund 2007-13 (ERDF) with investment secured through One
North East.
Just what the doctor ordered
Neil Gutteridge, 57, (pictured)
is embarking on a new career
following help from an
employment advice service
offered by 15 GP
surgeries across the Tees
Valley.
years. Neil’s adviser showed him how
a new career could improve his health
and self-confidence and referred him
to the NHS Condition Management
After several sessions working with
his CMP Practitioner, a life coach and
a specialist on relaxation techniques,
Neil began to look for a new job. He
seized the opportunity when he
saw a vacancy for an NHS driver – a
perfect chance to help others out
of work due to health reasons.
Neil, from Norton’s Glebe
Estate, now drives for NHS
Tees and NHS Darlington
after a Jobcentre Plus adviser,
based at his GP surgery,
helped him back into work.
Jobcentre Plus is working
with the surgeries to offer
support for people on
incapacity benefits as part of
the Government’s Pathways
to Work scheme.
Neil’s GP referred him to the scheme
after he had to stop working as a
commercial heating engineer after 40
Programme (CMP). This offers support
from healthcare professionals to help
people claiming Employment and
Support Allowance or Incapacity Benefit
with their long-term health conditions.
Neil said: “My previous
employment started to affect my
health and I knew I needed to do
something about it. The Condition
Management Programme was
excellent. After only a few weeks
I felt in control of my situation and
was once more able to return to
work.”
CMP is open to anyone claiming
Employment and Support
Allowance or Incapacity Benefit who
feels they need support with their
health condition before they can return
to work. To find out more, call 01740
665055.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 9
Checking the Borough
for potholes
Following the recent freezing weather, <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s highway maintenance teams have been
out and about checking the Borough’s roads for
surface damage.
Like many areas across the country, some roads have suffered
damage caused by the frost, ice and corrosive nature of the
gritting salt.
Teams have been deployed to identify any roads in need of
repair due to the adverse weather conditions and additional
resources will be used to repair potholes or cracked road
surfaces.
Richard McGuckin, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Acting Head of
Technical Services, said: “Once the freeze started to thaw,
damage to roads became apparent. We are currently
assessing the Borough’s road network, which covers
more than 500 miles. Estimates to date show the cost of
resurfacing and repairing damaged roads may be more than
£500,000.
• You can report damaged roads or potholes through the
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council website by clicking on the ‘report it’
section on the homepage, or by calling (01642) 391959.
Business park welcomes new company
A significant investment has given
a further boost to a buoyant Tees
Valley development CableCom
Training Ltd is spending a sevenfigure
sum relocating its head
offices to the Westland Way
business park on the outskirts of
<strong>Stockton</strong>.
The company, currently based in
Thornaby, has commissioned a
new office building at TM Urban
Development’s 18-acre site. CableCom’s
new 8,000 sq ft premises will provide
three times more space than its present
location.
The rapidly expanding business was
set up in 2000 to provide training
for clients in a wide range of sectors
including telecommunications, waste
management, security, driver CPC,
management, transportation, teaching
and health and safety. It has also
recently launched new apprenticeship
programmes for employed and
unemployed people, working closely
with local colleges.
Left to right:Tony Horridge, CableCom’s Training Manager, MD Clive Donnison, Anthony Wattis,
MD of TM Urban Developments and Sean Ratchford, Director of CableCom.

10
news
Environment
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Housing
Flood Warning!
More than five million
people in England and
Wales live or work in
properties at risk of
flooding from rivers or
the sea.
Within the <strong>Stockton</strong>
Borough, Seal Sands,
Lustrum Beck, Yarm and
Port Clarence are some of
the areas identified by the
Environment Agency as
being liable to flooding and
the Council is encouraging
people to take precautions
and sign up to a free early
warning system.
Richard McGuckin, the
Council’s Acting Head of
Technical Services, said:
“During the major floods of
2007, 5,000 properties were
flooded in England, with
around 7,000 people being
rescued by the emergency
services. Worse still, thirteen
people sadly died.
“Of course, we’re doing
everything we can to avoid
our residents being flooded
but the fact is we can’t
control the elements. We
need all residents who may
be at risk to register for
the alert system. At the
moment only 47 per cent of
those who are potentially at
risk from flooding in Yarm
have registered, leaving
more than 400 properties
unregistered and at risk.”
To check if your home,
workplace or vulnerable
(elderly/frail) friends or
relatives are at risk visit
the Environment Agency’s
website http://www.
environment-agency.gov.
uk/flood or speak to an
operator on 08459881188
(Typetalk 0845 602 6340).
If you are at risk, sign up
for “flood warnings direct”
a free service run by the
Environment Agency to
warn people of impending
floods.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 11
Tenants have their say
on multi-million pound
housing investment
In the last edition of <strong>Stockton</strong> News
we told you that <strong>Stockton</strong> had been
named as one of six councils to be
offered a place on the Government’s
housing stock transfer programme.
The news puts <strong>Stockton</strong> a step
closer to transferring its Council
homes to a new-style Tristar Homes.
If tenants support the proposal, it
will open the way for a £600 million
investment in modernising 10,500 homes
over the next 30 years – £140 million of it
in the first
five years.
The new-style
Tristar Homes
will deliver
a new and
improved
housing
service to
tackle the
issues which
really matter
to tenants
and the
transfer
would unlock
the money
to get things
done.
Liz Kidd, a
tenant and
chair of the
Housing
Customer
Futures
Group (the
tenant
consultation
group) said:
“This is great
news and
reflects the
massive amount of work tenants and the
Council has done. Transfer will mean
massive investment into our homes and
services and that’s what tenants have told
us they want.”
Before tenants are asked to decide
whether they support transfer, each will
receive an ‘Offer Document’. Shaped
by tenants from across the Borough,
this contains details about the kind of
improvements to homes and services
tenants want to see. It will then be
followed by a 28-day consultation
period where tenants are encouraged to
comment.
Julie Nixon Head of Housing, said: “I
would encourage every tenant to read
the Offer Document and feed back their
comments to the Council. The views of all
tenants are
important to
us and we will
only decide
whether to
hold a formal
tenant ballot
once we
know what
people think.
Transfer is not
a foregone
conclusion.”
During the
consultation
period,
representatives
from both
the Council
and Tristar
will try and
make personal
contact with
every tenant
across the
Borough.
For further
information
please contact
the Council’s
Housing
Futures
Team on freephone 0800 432 0891 or
email housing.futures@stockton.gov.uk
Alternatively Council tenants can contact
the appointed Engage Associates (the
Independent Tenant Advisor) tel. 01845
537145 email info@engage3.org
Help to
repair
your
home
If you are a homeowner
and struggling to keep
your home safe and
comfortable to live in -
an affordable loan from
the Council may be just
what you need.
From 1 April <strong>2010</strong> the
Council will be introducing
a new set of financial
assistance products to help
low income homeowners
who are experiencing
difficulties obtaining loans
from high street Banks or
Building Societies to repair
and maintain their homes.
If you are eligible for help
you could be offered a loan
between £500 and £35,000
through either a low interest
repayment loan, an equity
loan or an interest free loan.
The type of loan offered
depends on the applicants
financial circumstances.
The Council has tried to
make its loans as affordable
as possible which means
there are no loan set up
charges or penalties should
the loan be repaid early.
Those not successful
obtaining a loan will be
offered a free survey of
their home, provided with a
schedule of work and details
of local contractors who can
undertake the work.
If you think you may be
eligible and have lived in
your home for more than
12 months please contact
the Private Sector Housing
Division on( 01642) 527797
for further details.

12
news
Environment
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Housing
10:10
<strong>Stockton</strong> to represent the UK!
takes off
The national 10:10 campaign, to see everyone
reduce their carbon emissions by 10 per cent in
<strong>2010</strong>, continues. And cutting carbon has the handy
benefit of saving money too!
More than 150 Council staff signed up to the scheme in just
four days, with others following.
And now we’re asking you to get involved.
It’s easy to save money by reducing your emissions – turning
down the thermostat by one degree, leaving the car at home
for short journeys and not leaving appliances switched on are
just some of the simple things anyone can do. Keep the top
tips on the outside back page and see how many you can do.
It couldn’t be easier to register your commitment to 10:10,
just visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/1010 and log in your details.
Neil Ellison, Environment Expert for <strong>Stockton</strong> Council, said:
”Some might question what difference cutting their emissions
by 10 per cent will really make. Well I can tell them, it makes
a huge difference!
“No one person, company, government or country can stop
climate change alone, it’s up to us all to take responsibility
and make small, simple changes to our lifestyles. All these
tiny savings soon add up and, if the whole Borough reduced
our emissions by 10 per cent, the impact will be enormous.
“Of course, some people still don’t believe in climate change
and I’m not going to argue with them now. But I’ll say this
– reducing emissions by saving energy also saves you money.
Surely that’s another good reason for joining 10:10?”
Neil Ellison, with the 1010 pledge.
This summer,
<strong>Stockton</strong> is proud
to be representing
the UK in Europe’s
biggest Environment
competition – ‘Entente
Florale <strong>2010</strong>’.
The honour follows our
national success in the
2009 Britain in Bloom
Competition, when
<strong>Stockton</strong> won the ‘best
city’.
As 2009 winners, we are
not permitted entry into
this year’s Britain in Bloom
Competition and would
need to be nominated in
future years to represent
our region. As such the
Royal Horticultural Society
(RHS) has nominated
<strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees to
represent the UK in the
prestigious Entente Florale.
Countries participating
include Austria, Belgium,
Croatia, Czech Republic,
France, Germany,
Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the
Netherlands and Slovenia.
We expect the international
jury, to visit <strong>Stockton</strong> late
July or early August.
The competition aims to
improve quality of life for
communities. So <strong>Stockton</strong>
must show how it engages
with its local communities
to achieve a green,
sustainable and colourful
town and promotes
environmental awareness.
If you are a resident,
member of a community
group or business
and interested in
becoming involved in
the competition, please
contact Care For Your
Area on (01642) 391959 or
email careforyourarea@
stockton.gov.uk for further
information.
<strong>Stockton</strong>
plays host
<strong>Stockton</strong> has entered the
Northumbria in Bloom
Competition for more
than 30 years - being
overall winner in the
Best City category for
six consecutive years.
Now it’s our privilege
to be asked to host this
year’s award ceremony
in September when 400
guests will attend from
across the North East
region. The competition
was also launched in
<strong>Stockton</strong> in early <strong>March</strong>.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 13
The Smart EV cars like the one pictured were adapted to
run on a battery and can be charged from a normal power
socket. Able to hit a top speed of 60mph and travel more
than 50 miles on a full charge, they were perfect for the short
distance journeys council staff often make.
Neil Ellison, Environment Expert for <strong>Stockton</strong> Council, said:
“People really liked driving the electric cars. They’re quiet,
nippy and really easy to drive.
Ohms, James
During February the Council was loaned four
electric cars as part of a trial scheme to assess
the practicality and acceptability of using electric
vehicles in the workplace and for commuting.
Cenex - the national Centre of Excellence for low-carbon
technology coordinated the trial in the Region.
“We used two at the Council and based the other two
with partner organisations. After each journey, technical
information was recorded, as well as the driver’s views.
Cenex can now assess the results to see how electric cars
perform in a working environment.
“All the major car manufacturers are developing electric
and electric-hybrid cars, with volume production worldwide
beginning very soon. Data from this trial will aid the
automotive industry in producing effective vehicles with realworld
performance and range.”
The Council will soon be installing electric car charge
points at public locations throughout the Borough as part of
a government and industry supported scheme to install 620
points across the North East by the end of <strong>2010</strong>. More on this
in future editions of <strong>Stockton</strong> News.
Ambitious housing plans agreed
The Council’s Cabinet has agreed
ambitious housing regeneration
proposals to transform two
<strong>Stockton</strong> neighbourhoods.
Following consultation with residents
and landlords the boundary for the
existing Parkfield Mill Lane housing
regeneration scheme will be extended,
by extending the boundary in Phase 2 to
Dovecot Street.
The 152 households in the area included
in the proposed extension received a
hand delivered letter with details of all
the proposals and were invited to oneto-one
sessions with staff from <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council to talk through any queries or
concerns they may have.
This is the latest development in the
£60 million regeneration masterplan for
Parkfield Mill Lane. When the Council’s
Cabinet first approved the demolition
boundary in 2005, many residents
just outside the boundary voiced
disappointment they were not in it.
85 per cent of residents and landlords
affected and of these 82 per cent were in
favour of the plans.
The Council’s ambitious 15 to 20 year
plans for the Parkfield Mill Lane area
aim to transform it into a thriving
residential neighbourhood and, to date,
has demolished more than 200 properties
and built 80 new homes there.
Swainby Road residents consulted in
October overwhelmingly supported
demolition proposals.
During the consultation, 119 people
responded with 99 per cent in favour
of the regeneration plans. At the heart
of the scheme is an opportunity for
residents affected to be initially rehoused
and then given priority to return by
moving into new homes once built.
The area is also soon to benefit from
multi million investment in a new
academy for secondary school children,
state-of-the-art youth facilities for young
people at Myplace and an additional 330
new high-quality homes on the former
Hills Joinery site.
Julie Nixon, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Head of
Housing, said: “<strong>Stockton</strong> Council has
an ambitious housing regeneration
programme throughout the Borough
and is committed to ensuring that all its
residents enjoy good quality housing in
safe, well designed neighbourhoods.
Together, these two schemes could create
more than 600 jobs for local people.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council continues to work
on the successful, ambitious housing
regeneration plans at Hardwick and
Mandale where, to date, more than 1,200
properties have been demolished and
more than 1,000 residents successfully
relocated into new high-quality housing.
Annie Collins, a resident of Swainby Road who
will benefit from the scheme.

14
news
Environment
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Housing
The ten commitments
Residents can be sure they receive a
value-for-money waste and a recycling
service which meets their needs, as
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council signs up to a new Waste
Collection Commitment.
This is based on research into what people like
and dislike about their services and issues that are
important to them.
To find out more about collection services
available, call Care for your Area on (01642)
391959. More information on the Commitment
can be found at www.wrap.org.uk/lacommitment
1 Explain clearly what services you
can expect to receive
2 Provide regular collections
3 Provide a reliable collection service
4 Consider any special requests that
individual households may have
5 Respond to complaints we receive
about our services
6 Collect as many materials for recycling
as we can and explain to you what
happens to them
Help with mortgage problems
Having trouble with
your mortgage
payments needn’t mean
losing your home,
as there are several
government schemes to
help.
Aimed at people who’ve had
a temporary loss of income,
such as a cut in working
hours or wages, or job losses,
Homeowners Mortgage
Support (HMS) could allow
you to put off paying some
To apply for HMS, contact:
• <strong>Stockton</strong> & District
Advice & Information
Centre, Bath Lane,
<strong>Stockton</strong>
• Consumer Credit
Counselling Services
(CCCS) – visit
www.cccs.co.uk
• National Debtline – visit
www.nationaldebtline.
co.uk
• Payplan – visit
www.payplan.com
• Shelter - visit
www.shelter.org.uk
of your mortgage payments
for up to two years.
You must pay the money
back at a later date, with
interest on the money owed.
However, the scheme may
give you time to improve
your finances.
Support for
Mortgage Interest
If you’ve lost your job,
you’re ill, disabled or
retired, you may be able
to get help towards paying
mortgage interest with
Support for Mortgage
Interest (SMI). To qualify,
you need to be on certain
benefits. Payment starts 13
weeks after you make your
claim (immediately if you
are on pension credit).
For more information visit
www.adviceguide.org.uk
To find out more about
the various schemes call
(01642) 633877 or visit
www.mortgagehelp.direct.
gov.uk
7 Tell you in good time if we have to
make changes to your services, even
temporarily
8 Explain clearly what our service rules are
and the reasons for them
9 Design our services and carry out
collections in a way that doesn’t
produce litter
10 Tell all our residents about this
commitment to collecting waste
More affordable
housing
28 units of much needed
affordable housing
accommodation will
be built on the former
Rosebrook School site
in Roseworth, following
recent planning approval.
The new homes will be a mix
of two and three bedroom
family houses and two
bedroomed bungalows for
elderly/disabled residents the
majority of which will be for
affordable rent.
The new homes will be
developed by Housing
Hartlepool, a local registered
social landlord and managed
by Tristar Homes.
The scheme has secured
£1,340.000 million pounds
worth of funding by the
North East Homes and
Communities Agency.
Future editions of <strong>Stockton</strong>
News will bring further details
on the scheme.
Plastic
sacks
get
sacked!
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council
is committed to
recycling and reusing
wherever possible,
and our popular
kerb-side collection
service recycles paper,
green garden waste,
cardboard, bottles, tins
and plastics.
Now the service is even
better – from April, we’ll be
delivering a free reusable
green waste sack, which can
hold more than double the
amount of the old plastic
sacks. Just fill it up, leave
it out on the usual pick-up
day and our recycling team
will empty the contents into
the van for recycling and
leave the sack back in your
garden.
Jamie McCann, the Council’s
Head of Direct Service, said:
“This is a much improved
method of recycling and
will be a lot less hassle for
most people. Additional
sacks are available for
people with very large
gardens for only £1.50 but
there is of course no charge
for collection no matter
how many sacks you leave
out.”
The sacks will be delivered
with an information leaflet.
Additional Green Waste
bags can be bought from
the receptions at Municipal
Buildings, Cowpen Dept and
the Multi-Service Centre at
Thornaby Library.
Residents can still purchase
rolls of the plastic green
waste sacks should they
wish to use to them.

news
Community
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Safety
Page 15
New heads at the helm
It’s all change at the top for Cleveland
Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade.
Superintendent Darren Best is
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s new District Commander
taking over from Dave Brunskill who
recently retired from the force.
It’s not just the Police who have a new face at the top. Ian
Hayton (pictured below) has recently stepped into the role
of Cleveland Fire Brigade’s new fire chief.
Dave Brunskill joined <strong>Stockton</strong>’s police team in April 2004
as Operations Superintendent. In July 2005 he was made
District Commander.
During his tenure Dave worked tirelessly to make <strong>Stockton</strong>
a safer place and crime in the Borough reduced by 41 per
cent, from 20,534 recorded crimes in 2003/4 to 12,000 - the
projected figure for 2009/10.
As well as being a leading player in driving crime down
to levels not seen since the 1970s, Dave has been fully
committed to working with colleagues from the Council
and other public sector bodies to improve and promote
the economic, environmental and social well-being of the
Borough of <strong>Stockton</strong>.
Darren Best takes over from Dave as District Commander
after spending two years with Professional Standards at
Police Headquarters. Before this he was a Detective Chief
Inspector based in <strong>Stockton</strong>.
Living and working in the Borough has given him a unique
insight for his new role, he said: “I am looking
forward to the challenges ahead and building
on the successes of the team in <strong>Stockton</strong>. Crime
levels have been reduced and I want to keep the
momentum going to make sure that we keep
the public’s confidence and belief in what we
do.
Born and raised on Teesside, Ian promises to build upon
the excellent work of his predecessor John Doyle, with an
innovative, creative and proactive approach to community
safety.
The first challenge, he said, will be to deliver better
outcomes for local people and to design fire brigade
services to meet the community’s needs and demands.
Ian said: “This is an enormous and hugely exciting
challenges; and I am confident that, with everybody’s
support, we can achieve more for our local communities.”
Picture shows Dave Brunskill (left) shaking the
hand of his successor, District Commander for
<strong>Stockton</strong>, Darren Best (right).
Mike Batty, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Head of
Community Safety, said: “Over the past
six years Dave Brunskill has worked
with dedication and enthusiasm. It
is testament to his commitment to
the Safer <strong>Stockton</strong> Partnership that
he leaves <strong>Stockton</strong> in a secure
position as the title holder of
safest place to live in the Tees
Valley. We wish Dave Brunskill
every happiness in his retirement
and we very much look forward
to working with Darren in his new
role.”

16
news
Community
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Safety
Successful operation
In February, police in <strong>Stockton</strong> saw the successful
culmination of more than a year’s thorough
investigation to expose a drugs operation network
in the area.
Operation Stockholm resulted in the arrest of 40 people, with
34 jailed for a total of more than 105 years. Six others received
Community Service Orders.
This intelligence-led investigation saw Cleveland Police
and other partners identify groups of no less than ten well
organised networks of drug dealers.
After the court case, Detective Inspector Mark Buckley said:
“We are exceptionally pleased with the outcome of this long
and intensive investigation.
Smoke on the water
A new purpose-built rescue craft capable of up to 36
nots is helping Cleveland Fire Brigade in their work
on the River Tees and throughout the Tees Valley.
The new addition provides the Water Rescue Team
at Thornaby Fire Station with the best equipment to
respond to a wide range of calls for help.
A fair measure
Motorists can be
confident they’re getting
a fair measure on the
forecourt thanks to a
new scheme to check
the accuracy of Tees
Valley petrol dispensers.
As fuel prices continue to rise,
the scheme aims to boost
consumer confidence.
Garages receive regular checks
by inspectors from Tees Valley
Measurement, a partnership
operated by Middlesbrough,
<strong>Stockton</strong>, Redcar & Cleveland
and Hartlepool Councils.
They inspect each pump at
least every two years for
measurement accuracy - 860
nozzles in 2009.
Dispensers found outside legal
boundaries are shut down
until they are repaired, retested
and sealed to prevent
tampering.
Jim Tann, of Tees Valley
Measurement, said: “We
hope this labelling scheme
will raise awareness of our
work behind the scenes and
reassure drivers they are
getting what they’ve paid
for.”
The stickers started appearing
on dispensers in January and
show when the last check was
carried out and its next due
date.
“These organised networks ran profitable and structured
businesses. Operating a hierarchy with a clear chain of
command, the ‘king pins’ allocated members specific roles from
taking orders to preparing and delivering the drugs.”
Inspector
Steve Young
of <strong>Stockton</strong>
Police said:
“We received
a significant
amount of
information
from the
general public
and we want
to thank them
and local
communities
for their
support.”
<strong>Stockton</strong>
police
also work
closely with
partners
such as
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s
Drugs and Alcohol Team
(DAAT) to ensure people involved in drug use are
referred to treatment providers and receive the support and
guidance they need to turn their lives around by diverting them
into drugs treatment programmes.
Reproduced courtesy of Evening Gazette
Marilyn Davies, Community Safety Manager for <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council, said: “Support for drug users formed part of the
Operation and, whilst the criminals are incarcerated and paying
for their crimes, we hope their victims will take up the support
offered to help them turn their lives around and become drug
free.”
Detective Inspector Mark Buckley added: “We hope this sends
a clear message to anyone dealing in drugs that the police and
other agencies are watching you and it is only a matter of time
before you receive the same kind of fate. We will take action
against you.”

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 17

18
news
Community
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Safety

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 19
Together we can beat crime and anti social behaviour
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council and
Cleveland Police are
warning lawbreakers
that crime is an even
riskier business than
normal, after crime
detection rates rose
across the Borough.
December and January proved
to be the most successful
months for <strong>Stockton</strong> on record
to date, with nearly half of
all reported crime successfully
detected. With a 20 per cent
reduction in the number of
victims of crime, the Borough’s
residents can feel safe and
reassured that criminals are
being brought to justice.
Crime in <strong>Stockton</strong> is now at an
all time low. Over the last three
years violent crime has reduced
by 20 per cent, robbery has
reduced by 18 per cent and
drug offence detections have
risen by 24 per cent.
Council. Successfully working
in partnership with Cleveland
Police and Cleveland Fire
Brigade, the Council’s own
specialised Anti Social
Behaviour team have clamped
down on unruly behaviour and
rates of anti social behaviour
in the Borough continue to fall.
The Safer <strong>Stockton</strong> Partnership
has also increased uniform
presence in the Borough
through the Council’s Anti
Social Behaviour Team and
Neighbourhood Enforcement
Service. The Partnership also
supported the recruitment
of 50 additional PCSOs for
<strong>Stockton</strong>.
To report any act of anti social
behaviour please call <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s 24 hour anti social
behaviour hotline on (01642)
607943.
DID
YOU KNOW?
Police officers in
the Borough spend
80 per cent of their
time on patrol.
Anti social behaviour is a
key priority for <strong>Stockton</strong>
We’re getting Trolleywise
Unsightly abandoned
shopping trolleys are
the target of a new pilot
scheme to see them
returned to their rightful
place.
The initial 12-month scheme
will see <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
Neighbourhood Enforcement
Officers work with Trolleywise
– a national trolley retrieval
company – to collect and return
abandoned trolleys to the
retailer.
As part of their patrols, Council
enforcement officers will
collect trolleys abandoned
away from the retailer’s
premises. They will challenge
people seen misusing or
abandoning trolleys and,
where appropriate, can issue
fixed penalty notices and
pursue litter or fly tipping
prosecutions.
After recording the collection,
officers will then contact
Trolleywise to hand over
the trolleys and relevant
paperwork.
The Council will regularly
share information about
abandonment ‘hot spots’ with
Trolleywise, who will be able to
carry out their own patrols to
support enforcement officers.
Mike Batty, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
Head of Community Protection,
says: “This is the first scheme
of its kind where Trolleywise
has formed such close links
between retailers, their own
teams and a local authority.
We are pleased to be at the
forefront of this innovative
partnership.
“Abandoned trolleys are not
only an eyesore but are often
misused, causing damage
to property. They are also
used in anti social behaviour
which impacts on the local
community.
“Since last April, the Council
has dealt with more than 1,000
requests for officers to deal
with trolleys or related antisocial
behaviour. So we want
to remind shoppers to return
their trolleys at the end of their
shopping trip to the designated
place to help retailers prevent
the problem.”

20
news
Children
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Young People
Young people shape £5M place of their own
Young people across
<strong>Stockton</strong> have moved
a step closer to gaining
a world-class youth
facility of their own.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Planning
Committee has approved a
proposal to build an iconic,
multi-million pound building
on a site off Norton Road.
The state-of-the-art youth
facility is one of several
investments earmarked for
the northern part of the
town. It is proposed that
a new multi-million pound
Academy for secondary
school children will be built
next to it. A significant
housing regeneration
scheme is also planned
for the surrounding area
which will see homes on
Swainby Road demolished
and replaced with new
properties and an additional
330 new high-quality homes
built on the Queens Park
North site.
The groundbreaking onestop
shop will provide youth
social areas, a wide choice
of activities and also offer
13-19 year olds a range
of health and educational
support services offered by
partner agencies.
The project began in
<strong>March</strong> last year with
the announcement that
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council and six key
partners had succeeded in
their bid to secure nearly £5
million from the national,
Government-funded
“myplace” initiative.
Since then, young people
from across the Borough
have been working hard to
develop design ideas and
suggest the facilities the
building should offer.
Young people will continue
to be involved throughout
its construction and will also
influence the way the centre
is run. They will be at the
heart of all decision making
and will consider issues such
as transport, opening hours,
a name for the centre and
the choice of activities it
offers.
The project will be funded
through the Department
of Children, Schools and
Families’ (DCSF) £270 million
“myplace” programme,
which aims to deliver world
class places for young
people to go and transform
the way facilities for them
are planned, delivered and
administered.
The facility will be open to
young people seven days
a week, from 10am until
10pm.
The venture is an exciting
partnership project involving
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council, A4E,
The Children’s Society, Five
Lamps, Eastern Ravens
Trust, Brook and Cleveland
Police Authority. Myplace
is funded by the DCSF and
administered by the Big
Fund (BIG), the non-Lottery
funding operation of the Big
Lottery Fund.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 21
Amy makes a difference
One fantastic student has received the
national Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial
Award, which recognises young people
who make a real difference to the lives of
people in their local community.
Amy Smith, pictured here with Headteacher Joe
White, from St Michael’s RC School in Billingham, has
worked tirelessly in organising and running successful
sports tournaments with all the feeder schools where
she also coached.
A leading light in musical events and productions
and an active charity fundraiser, Amy both shone
academically and touched the hearts of many.
With Amy’s achievement adding to the 24 previous St.
Michael’s students to receive this prestigious award,
the school has also been awarded the Princess Diana
Silver and Gold Awards for achievement.
Teacher Patricia Carroll, who nominated Amy for
the award said: “Amy thoroughly deserves this
recognition and it is an example of the fantastic work
that goes on in St. Michael’s School by our students.”
Three bidders short-listed for £180 million
Building Schools for the Future contract
Three private sector organisations
have been shortlisted to bid for
the multi-million pound contract
to design, build and maintain 12
<strong>Stockton</strong> Borough schools.
BAM Construct UK Ltd, Environments for
Learning and Shepherd are all hoping to
win the £180 million Building Schools for
the Future (BSF) contract.
Neil Schneider, the Council’s Chief
Executive, said: “I’m delighted such high
calibre organisations would like to help us
implement our exciting vision.
“I’m confident the successful consortium
will help us create learning environments
which will enable us to provide our young
people with access to first class learning
opportunities and ensure they have the
best possible future life chances.”
Bishopsgarth School and Ian Ramsey Church
of England School will be the Borough’s
first secondary schools to benefit from BSF
investment.
Over the coming months the three
shortlisted organisations will work with
the Council and schools’ representatives
to develop designs and outline how
they would use their resources to deliver
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s exciting BSF vision.
In June the Council will evaluate the
bidders’ ideas to decide which two
should progress to the next stage of the
procurement process.
The selected bidder is expected to be
approved towards the end of this year with
construction anticipated to start on the first
two schools, Bishopsgarth School and Ian
Ramsey Church of England School, in June
2011.
The programme includes the remodelling
and refurbishment of seven mainstream
secondary schools, two special schools
and a pupil referral unit as well as the
construction of two new-build Academies.
Although this initial phase of <strong>Stockton</strong>-on-
Tees’ BSF project does not include All Saints
Church of England School, Conyers School
and Egglescliffe School, funding has been
agreed for ICT in these schools to support
learning, so pupils have a more flexible and
personalised learning experience.
Meanwhile, Council officers continue to
explore several options for the schools
in the south of the Borough so that a
solution which best matches the demand
for school places in each community can be
implemented when BSF, or any future form
of funding becomes available.
Have fun
being
healthy
Young people are
encouraged to ‘have
fun being healthy’ on
Thursday, 8 April.
An interactive event open to
everyone across the Borough
aged 11-24, ‘Have fun being
healthy’ is supported by
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s Children Trust
Board in partnership with
a wide range of other
organisations and services
including young volunteers.
The event, at Trinity Gardens,
<strong>Stockton</strong>, will give young
people information and top
tips about healthy lifestyles
including sexual health,
relationships, alcohol,
substance misuse, exercise
and smoking.
Activities include creating
a giant collage, sports,
sampling non-alcoholic
cocktails and receiving stressbusting
hand massages.
Services attending include
Chlamydia screening,
Cleveland Fire Service, Brook
and A Way Out.
Young people can also
find out about finance and
budgeting with the support
of the Infinity project, which
offers local people financial
guidance.
There’s no need to book so
why not come along on the
day for your chance to get
informed, involve yourself in
some fantastic activities and
win prizes.
To find out more call (01642)
526828.

22
news
Children
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Celebrating
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s youth
A special award
ceremony has celebrated
the achievements of
young people aged
13-25 years across the
Borough.
On 4 February those
nominated for demonstrating
outstanding commitment to
their community or youth
project came together at
ARC in <strong>Stockton</strong> to enjoy an
Oscars-style evening.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Integrated
Youth Support Service (IYSS)
hosted the awards.
Every participant in an IYSS
or partner-funded project
received a certificate of
achievement from the Mayor
of <strong>Stockton</strong>, Councillor Paul
Kirton.
Luke Hopwood won the
Young Person of the Year
Award for his exceptional
efforts in contributing to
and mentoring others on
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s bicycle
restoration project.
Young Volunteer of the Year
was Anthony Simms, for his
commitment, enthusiasm and
dedication in volunteering
roles on the Youth Assembly,
St Ann’s Development Board
and Cleveland Police’s Youth
Independent Advisory Group.
Anthony is also a volunteer
youth worker at The Willows
Youth Club, Portrack.
The Mucky Hand Gang
won the Youth Group
Achievement Award for their
impact in their community.
The young carers from
the Eastern Ravens Project
used their holiday time to
return an old bicycle into
use for another carer who
had previously had her bike
stolen. The gang gave the
bike to her to help her be
mobile and carry out her
caring role.
The Outstanding
Achievement Award was
given to John Boy Sykes
who, despite personal
difficulties, has turned his life
around while contributing
to his community. John Boy
has been responsible for
introducing and establishing
a boxing project at Fairfield
Boys Youth Club, where his
commitment has been an
inspirational role model to
young people.
and Young People
John Boy Sykes receives his Outstanding Achievement Award from the
Mayor of <strong>Stockton</strong>, Councillor Paul Kirton.
Parent know-how
<strong>Stockton</strong> Families Information Service has
developed a handy online directory of services
specifically designed for parents.
The directory offers an easy way to find local and national
family services, including leisure activities and things to do,
education, training and specialist support groups dealing
with subjects such as family and relationships, health,
behavioural difficulties, money advice and counselling.
The service, part of the national ‘Parent Know How’
programme, means families can find the information and
support they need with a click of a mouse.
To access ‘Parent Know How’ log on to <strong>Stockton</strong> Families
Information Zone at www.stocktonfiz.org.uk
Free support service
for families
Finding the right childcare to suit your family’s
needs can be a stressful and costly business. If
you are struggling with all the options available,
or would just like advice, then get in touch with
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Families Information Service
who can help you find what’s best for you.
The service can also help you work out whether you are getting
all the help you are entitled to. So if you’re baffled by Working
and Child Tax Credits, free entitlement for three and four year
olds, childcare vouchers\salary sacrifice and additional needs
support – give them a ring on (01642) 527225, email
fis@stockton.gov.uk or visit www.stocktonfiz.org.uk

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 23
Our golden girls
Two promising local sprinters
returned victorious from the
North East Indoor Athletics
Championships at Gateshead, in
January.
15-year-old Ellie Mullen and Rachel
Highfield, 13, both members of
Middlesbrough AC (Mandale) and Tees
Active Sports Academy, stormed to
victory in the 60 metres.
Ellie, a pupil at Northfield
School Marsh House site,
is coached by Cyril Banks
and said: “It was great
to win the Under 17
title although it’s
been difficult to
prepare for the
championships
as the recent
snow and ice made training at Clairville
stadium impossible. Fortunately I’ve
maintained my general fitness by
training at the Activ8 gyms.”
Rachel, from St Patrick’s RC school
Thornaby, set a new personal best
of 7.99 seconds and received the
competition’s Best Performance Award.
Also coached by Cyril, her superb form
continued at the Northern Athletics
Indoor Championships at the
English Institute of Sport in
Sheffield. Narrowly pipped
in the 60m to gain silver,
she gained revenge over
Kate Wasyliw of Halifax
in the 200m, winning
gold in 26.06 seconds.
Rachel said: “Due
to the weather
conditions training has been difficult but
I’ve been fortunate enough to have a
couple of sessions indoors at Gateshead,
where Richard Kilty gave me some great
tips. The wins are great but there’s a
lot of hard work to put in before the
outdoor season.”
To find out more about Tees Active
Sports Academy, call Allan McDermott
on (01642) 528772 or visit
www.teesactive.co.uk
Ellie Mullen
Rachel Highfield
Changes to free early learning
In September, free early years provision for 3 and 4 year olds in school nurseries
and private childcare settings is set to increase from 12.5 hours to 15 hours a
week and can be delivered more flexibly.
The 15 hours can be taken over a minimum of three and a maximum of five days per week
between core hours of 8am – 6pm for a maximum of 8 hours in any one day, from the term
following the child’s third birthday.
It is up to you where you use your child’s free entitlement, either at a school or a private
childcare provider and you may be able to choose which days. You can split the 15 hours
between two providers if you need to. This is subject to ‘reasonable’ parental demand and
whether the provider can accommodate your choice.
If your child is already attending a maintained school nursery or private childcare setting speak
to them about what they can offer. For more information contact the Families Information
Service on (01642) 527225 or email fis@stockton.gov.uk
Calling young
people:
<strong>Stockton</strong> Parent
Support is looking for
young disabled people
aged 13 and over
to join their Youth
Disability Forum. If
you would like to have
your say on services
in the Borough please
contact Amanda Vince
on (01642) 878137 or
email <strong>Stockton</strong>ps@
yahoo.co.uk

24
news
Adults
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Personal care
at home
At some point in your
life you, or someone
close to you, may need
assistance, support and
personal care to help
maintain independence
and quality of life.
Personal care means help
with everyday tasks such
as getting up, dressed‚
washing and bathing. Local
providers of this kind of
care locally include <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s Health and Social
Care services‚ private care
agencies and voluntary
organisations.
All agencies must register
with the regulatory body,
Care Quality Commission
(CQC). You can see details
of local home care providers
accredited by <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council at www.stockton.
gov.uk/homecare or at the
CQC website www.cqc.org.
uk
The Council is the main
provider of assistance for
local people, with most
entitled to an assessment
to find out their needs and
how they can be met.
Even if you don’t want the
Council to arrange services
for you‚ the assessment is
a useful way of identifying
what services might benefit
you. It will also show
whether you meet the
eligibility criteria for the
services the Council has a
duty to provide.
To find out more, call
(01642) 527764 any weekday
from 8.30am – 5pm (4.30pm
on Fridays) or email
firstcontact@stockton.gov.uk
You can also send a query
online at www.stockton.
gov.uk/citizenservices/
firstcontact/fc/ or call at
our offices at Bath Lane,
<strong>Stockton</strong>. We can arrange
interpreters if required.
Time to reminisce
Older residents came
together to reminisce
about favourite books
from their childhood to
mark World Book Day at
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s Libraries.
Claire Pratt, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s
Reader Development Officer,
said: “The books we read
as children often hold a
special place in our hearts.
It was lovely to see residents
come along and share their
experiences and some even
brought along their battered,
dog-eared favourites with
them.”
Services
Winter warmth
Tristar Homes have
taken steps to ensure
their vulnerable and
elderly customers are
safe during one of the
coldest winters for
decades.
Employees have gone
the extra mile to ensure
vulnerable and elderly
customers can manage
during the prolonged cold
spell by contacting and
visiting customers who might
need help, checking they are
comfortable, warm and well
supplied with food and drink.
Mrs Eva Collinson, 84,
from Roseworth, pictured
A bid by <strong>Stockton</strong>
and other North East
councils to help meet
the health needs of the
region’s veterans and
their families has won
national backing.
The Centre for Public
Scrutiny, using funding from
the Department of Health,
will provide cash and expert
advice for the project,
here with Carron Diddams
from Tristar Homes, was so
touched by the gesture she
sent in a thank you card to
show her appreciation!
Linda Minns, Support Services
Associate Director at Tristar
Homes, said: “Although
many of our vulnerable
and elderly customers have
the assistance of family
and other organisations,
some do not have this
support network. Our
Patch Managers are always
in regular contact with
customers but, because of
the recent weather, we really
wanted to make sure people
were safe and help out
where possible.”
Improving
veterans’ health
launched last month by the
health overview and scrutiny
committees from all 12 North
East local authorities.
Examining the physical,
mental and broader health
needs of ex-servicemen and
women and their families,
the study will also assess how
local and national agencies
are meeting these needs, as
well as how aware they are
of those services.

news
Arts,
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Culture and Leisure
Page 25
To infinity and beyond...
Book a date in your diary for the
evening of Sunday, 2 May as we
mark the coming of spring with
an exciting event to celebrate
the anniversary
of the opening of
the iconic Infinity
Bridge.
The bank holiday event
will see the Borough’s
school children and
community groups
lead local people in a
magical lantern parade from bridge to
bridge via the Riverside, culminating in
the release of biodegradable Chinese
style sky and river wish lanterns.
Starting from the Princess of Wales
Bridge the procession will carry
homemade lanterns, big and small and
made out of willow, tissue and glue, to
the Infinity Bridge and beyond.
Bring all the family
down to the
Riverside to marvel
at the spectacle and
join in the sunset
procession.
Look out for more
details at www.
stockton.gov.uk/
infinity or telephone (01642) 527696 as
the May bank holiday approaches.
Talented local writers
Two very different local writers have seen their
work published.
Keen poet Janis Landless, 53, lives in <strong>Stockton</strong> and her book
‘Verse Variations’ touches on human emotion of the heart –
lost love and wanting love as well as spiritual poetry about
angels. If you would like a copy email janislandess@hotmail.
co.uk
78-year-old Jim Haggas is from Yarm and reflects on how he
feels his generation was fortunate to be born in the right
place at the right time in his third book ‘No Ordinary Man’.
For a copy, contact Atkinson Printers on 01429 267849 or call
Jim direct on (01642) 784357.
DID YOU
KNOW?
<strong>Stockton</strong> Borough
Libraries is on
Facebook with all
the latest library
information.

26
news
Arts,
<strong>Stockton</strong>
We are sailing... and you could be too!
Think of Adult Education
- it might conjure up
images classrooms
and flower arranging,
pottery or learning a
new language - but
very soon, right here in
<strong>Stockton</strong>, you can leave
the classroom behind and
get out on to the River
Tees with some fantastic
water sport courses.
Starting in early May, at the
Castlegate Quay Watersports
Centre, just off the Riverside
Road, you can try your hand at
sailing, canoeing and kayaking
for beginners, as Tees Active
Ltd with Tees Achieve bring the
fantastic courses through Adult
Education.
The six week courses, to be held
on evenings between 5.30pm –
7.30pm are through the Royal
Yachting Association and British
Canoe Union where you will
receive expert tuition by fully
qualified instructors.
Learning these great sills in
such a tremendous location is
so exciting and can lead onto
bigger and better challenges.
For example, imagine being
able to try out your new skills
at the Tees Barrage White
Water Course - due to be open
towards the end of the year!
You could learn a new skill to
take with you on holiday and
rule the waves as absolutely
everything is provided. All you
need to bring is a change of
clothes and bags of enthusiasm!
Application packs will soon be
available from Tees Achieve - to
find out more or to register,
give them a ring on (01642)
527904 or if you have any
questions on the scheme
contact Castlegate Quay
Watersports Centre on (01642)
528689.
Culture and Leisure

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 27
Spring season in Ropner Park
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s beautiful
Ropner Park is there
for everyone to enjoy
especially now its café,
run by “The Friends”,
is open again after
a short break for
redecorating.
To tempt your tastebuds all
the food is home made on
the premises. The popular
mid-week lunches are now
being served on Wednesdays.
Cafe ‘specials’ are advertised
in and around the cafe.
The Friends of Ropner Park
is a registered charity which
encourages people to use
and enjoy the Park. Any
spare money from the café
and events helps improve
facilities and entertainment
in the park. The next major
project is the preparation of
a scented garden around the
bandstand.
Families for tennis?
Get families playing tennis
together is the aim of a six-week
tennis coaching programme at
Ropner Park, <strong>Stockton</strong>.
There is a choice of two one-hour sessions
each Sunday – either 10 or 11am – at the
outdoor tennis courts on the following
dates:
• 6 June - 11 July
• 18 July - 22 August
• 29 August - 3 October
No need to worry if you don’t have a tennis
racquet as all equipment is provided. At
just £2 per session, the six week programme
costs adults a total of £12. Children
accompanied by a participating adult take
part for free and must be eight years old or
over to join in.
To book your place, call (01642) 524964 or
email jonathan.hart@stockton.gov.uk
Top money
saving tips for
sports clubs
Sign up for tax
savings
Sports clubs are being urged
not to miss out on the chance
to get a boost from the tax
man and share in a multimillion
pound windfall by
registering for tax savings.
The Community Amateur Sports
Club (CASC) scheme enables
amateur sports clubs to benefit
from a range of tax advantages
including:
• Mandatory relief for 80 per
cent of the total business
rates bill;
• Reclaiming Gift Aid on
donations from individuals
• Exemption from Corporation
Tax on profits if annual
income is under £30,000 per
year;
To be eligible, clubs must
encourage participation in a
qualifying sport, be open to
the whole community without
discrimination, and ensure
profits go back into the club,
benefiting sport.
To find out more visit www.
hmrc.gov.uk/casc/index.htm or
call 0845 3020 203.
Rate relief for
sports clubs
Local not-for-profit sporting
organisations and sports
clubs who pay rates for their
premises to the Council are
being urged to put pen to
paper and apply now for
National Non-Domestic Rate
Relief (NNDRR).
Rate relief can provide great
help for sports organisations and
clubs managing their running
costs. Many organisations across
the Borough have benefited
from this fund so get in touch to
make sure you don’t miss out.
Download an application form
from www.stockton.gov.uk/
nndrr or call (01642) 526690 or
email trevor.massey@stockton.
gov.uk

28
news
Strong
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Communities
Sing for your supper
Are you
ready
for the
General
Election?
The Council is urging
residents to follow
simple advice from the
Electoral Commission to
make sure nothing stops
you from voting.
The invitation is out for everyone to
come together in song in an exciting
new project.
Based at ARC in <strong>Stockton</strong> and managed by
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Tees Achieve, Sing For Your
Supper unites the community through gospelstyle
singing and tasty food in a unique
project.
Hosted by Mike McGrother – of The Wildcats
of Kilkenny and The Diaspora Vocal Collective
(DVC) – the monthly evenings bring together
the Borough’s newer residents – refugees,
those seeking asylum and people who have
come to the UK to work – with longer-term
residents.
The first event, in January, saw more than 80
people, aged four months to 78 years, enjoy
themselves.
The evenings are very informal, completely
free and fun – designed so anyone can join in.
“Sing For Your Supper is as much about
friendship and sharing what we have in
common as it is music,” says Mike, who
formed The Diaspora Vocal Collective (DVC)
over a year ago.
“The DVC meets weekly and is always open to
new members but we thought these events
would open up what the choir is about to
a wider audience. It was amazing to see a
78-year-old lady from <strong>Stockton</strong> chatting and
laughing away with a young man from the
Congo, and lads from Billingham singing
and dancing with others from Iran, Iraq and
beyond!”
Annabel Turpin, ARC Chief Executive, says: “It
is great to be able to offer a free activity open
to absolutely anyone. I was delighted to see
such a large gathering of the community in
our venue.”
Sing for your Supper forms part of the work
the Council does to help migrants settle
into the Borough. Tees Achieve are now
developing sports and festival activities.
For details of the Diaspora Vocal Collective,
contact Mike at dvc.mike@stockton.gov.uk
The next Sing For Your Supper event is on
8 April, 6 – 9pm, at ARC. Entry is free but
children should be accompanied by an adult.
For details, contact the ARC box office on
(01642) 525199 or visit www.arconline.co.uk
If you are concerned you
may find it difficult getting
to your local Polling Station
on Election Day, you can
make use of voting by post
or proxy.
Postal voting is done entirely
by post. A ballot paper
is sent to you, which you
complete and return by post.
Proxy voting allows you to
apply for someone else to
vote for you. Your ‘proxy’
then votes at your polling
station, or they can even ask
to vote on your behalf by
post.
If you would like to apply
to vote by post or proxy
you need to contact the
Council’s Electoral Services
team on (01642) 526196 or
email electoral@stockton.
gov.uk Alternatively you
can download and complete
an application form at the
Council’s website www.
stockton.gov.uk
If you are not on the Voter
(Electoral) Register, you will
not be able to vote, so act
now and make sure you are
on it – especially if you have
moved address recently. You
can print a registration form
from the Council’s website,
or request one from the
Electoral Services team,
details above.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 29
Viva Volunteers –
Do Something
different!
Anyone can volunteer,
so it was balloons
away at the recent
official launch of Viva
Volunteers in February a
brand new and exciting
volunteering service for
<strong>Stockton</strong> on Tees.
Viva is a partnership between
Tees Valley PSG, Catalyst
<strong>Stockton</strong>, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council
and <strong>Stockton</strong> Residents. It is
unique in that it will bring a
cross section of organisations
together to form a solid
group of volunteers to create
meaningful volunteer
opportunities in public, private
and third sectors.
On tour
Some residents took
part in bus tours to
unfamiliar parts of the
Borough recently, as part
of a scheme to bring
communities together.
The tours, funded by the
North East Improvement and
Efficiency Partnership, visited
several neighbourhoods where
residents could see where
regeneration and development
is taking place.
Viva can help individuals
looking to volunteer,
organisations in search of
volunteers and private sector
businesses wanting to become
socially responsible. It plays a
crucial and major part within
communities on all levels
whether for older people,
groups or working with young
people.
To find out more about Viva,
whether it’s to become a
volunteer, find a volunteer
or to learn more about
social responsibility , call
0800-8600-214 or visit www.
viva-volunteers.org.uk or Text
‘Viva’ to 8<strong>2010</strong>.
opened my eyes to the size
and amount of work which has
taken place.”
Representatives from the
Area Partnerships showed the
residents exactly where their
involvement has helped make
improvements.
The Area Partnerships bring
representatives from various
sectors together including
public, voluntary and
community, local businesses,
agencies and resident
associations to give local
people a chance to influence
developments in their area.
Visit the Borough’s
‘virtual’ hall of fame
Last year a virtual hall
of fame was launched
on the Council’s website
to celebrate and
acknowledge people from
the Borough’s past and
present who are worthy
of special recognition.
Local peoplewere asked
to nominate deserving
people who had a link to
the Borough and these
ideas went before a
commemoration panel.
The website www.stockton.
gov.uk/halloffame will show
who currently features,
these include:
• Brass Crosby, <strong>Stockton</strong>’s
own Dick Whittington
• Harold Macmillan,
former UK Prime
Minister
• John Walker, friction
match inventor
Mosque takes shape
Building work on
<strong>Stockton</strong>’s new purposebuilt
mosque, between
Bowesfield Lane and
Westbourne Street, is
progressing.
It will replace the existing
mosque on nearby
Hartington Road, which
became too small as
worshippers increased.
It will provide larger and
improved prayer halls,
• George Stephenson,
engineer of the
<strong>Stockton</strong> to Darlington
Railway (pictured).
If you can think of anyone
who should be in the hall of
fame, please get in touch.
Email your nominations to
halloffame@stockton.gov.
uk or post them to Hall of
Fame, Room 66, Municipal
Buildings, Church Road,
TS18 1LD.
ablution facilities, a dining
room, community library and
educational resources for the
local Muslim and non-Muslim
community.
Designed by West Yorkshire
architects, Archi-Structure
Ltd, the finished mosque
will boast traditional Islamic
features.
Private businesses,
organisations and residents
have donated £2.2 million.
Those taking part were
surprised at what was going
on, one commenting: “I can’t
believe the immense amount
of work which has, and still
is, being developed across
the Borough. This tour has
A DVD showing the Area
Partnerships’ work will be
available from April 10 – for a
copy call the Partnerships and
Engagement team on (01642)
528677.

30
news
Strong
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Seeing red!
If you see a red chair
– don’t be surprised
– it’s all part of the
Evening Gazette’s Talk
Up campaign to find out
what you think makes
our region so special.
The idea is to find out what’s
happening in local areas
– and champion the great
people and places in various
corners of the Teesside
community.
Eaglescliffe, Hemlington,
Marske, Norton, Central
Middlesbrough, South Bank
and Faifield.
Look out for Tfm’s presenter
Wayne Allen who is heading
out on the road to meet local
people to hear their local
stories.
You can find out more
about the Tees Pride Talk Up
campaign by visiting www.
gazettelive.co.uk/talkup
Communities
Tees Achieve boosts
hospice fund-raising
Over the past seven
years Barbara Alderson
has been making and
selling crafts and cards
to raise funds for the
Butterwick Hospice.
After attending a Tees
Achieve course in Photoshop
Elements at Billingham
Community Centre, Barbara
is now producing her own
card designs to sell on the
internet.
The cards have gone down a
storm and Barbara has been
able to sell hundreds in a
short time – boosting the
amount she can raise for the
hospice.
At the end of last term, she
decided to try her hand at
designing cards for other
crafters to make, using the
skills and confidence gained
from the course.
Sue Appleton, Tees Achieve
Subject Leader for Art,
Crafts and Digital Media,
said: “Barbara gained lots
of new skills over her 10-
week course. It’s fantastic
that she is using these in an
enterprising way to help the
local community.”
If you are interested in
joining a Tees Achieve course
visit www.stockton.gov.
uk/adulted or call (01642)
527901 to see what’s on
offer.
You can find Barbara’s craft
making sheets at www.
craftsuprint.com
The first 20 location to
feature in the campaign
are Normanby, Billingham,
Linthorpe, Redcar, Ingleby
Barwick, Berwick Hills,
Nunthorpe, Thornaby,
Beechwood, Loftus, Central
<strong>Stockton</strong>, Thorntree, Eston,
Complete the online
questionnaire to say what
you love best about your
local area and what we
should be proud of. You
can also suggest community
ambassadors by emailing
talkup@eveninggazette.co.uk
Teens prevent terrorism
In partnership with
Cleveland Police,
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council
hosted an innovative
conference designed to
provide young people
with the opportunity
to discuss terrorism and
radicalisation in a safe
environment.
The police developed the
Youth Prevent conference
as part of the Government’s
‘Prevent’ strategy, which
aims to prevent people
from becoming terrorists or
supporting violent extremists.
Schools across the Tees Valley
took part in the conference
which saw young people take
part in a series of informative
and challenging workshops.
Raising funds for young and old
Nearly £6,000 was raised
for the Mayor of <strong>Stockton</strong>on-Tees’
Benevolent Fund
at the Mayor’s annual
charity dinner dance.
Councillor Paul Kirton,
Mayor of <strong>Stockton</strong> and the
Mayoress, Mary Kirton,
hosted the ball at the
Wynyard Rooms.
So far the Mayor’s fund
has supported both older
and younger people in the
Borough through an Active
for Life Group for the older
residents of Queen’s Park
Housing Estate; music events;
sporting activities such as
football, rugby, rowing and
golf; groups of girl guides, air
cadets and disabled children
in the area as well as assisting
projects in Canada, Africa
and Uganda.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 31
The ‘big baby’ in 2009 Community Carnival
Calling for
Community
Carnival
It’s time to look ahead
to the annual <strong>Stockton</strong>
Community Carnival
and, if you feel like
doing something really
different this year,
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Arts
Development Team is
looking for local groups
and individuals to take
part.
<strong>Stockton</strong> Community Carnival
is one of the high spots
within <strong>Stockton</strong> International
Riverside Festival and
brings together more than
a thousand local people in
celebration.
We are looking for school,
youth, community groups
and individuals from across
the Borough to take part
in this year’s parade on
Saturday 31 July.
The Carnival is a fantastic
opportunity to become
involved in <strong>Stockton</strong>’s largest
community celebration
and you can take part in
costume-making, dance and
drumming.
If you would like to know
more call Lyndsey Stephenson
on (01642) 527696 or
email lyndsey.stephenson@
stockton.gov.uk
A rocking ride
Pupils at Westlands
School’s primary unit in
Thornaby now have a
new classmate.
opportunity to ride Shuttle
will be allocated to children
as a reward for good work
and good behaviour.
Shuttle, the rocking horse,
was donated to the school by
Middlesbrough Erimus Rotary
Club, who raised funds to
pay for it – and even hand
made the beautiful horse
themselves.
The rocking horse is
named in memory of Ian
Shuttleworth, a Founder
Member and former
President of the Rotary Club
who passed away last year.
The club choose Westlands
School as a worthy home
for Shuttle, where he would
be appreciated, well looked
after and frequently ridden.
The school is for children
and students with learning
difficulties and has 21 pupils
in the primary unit where
Shuttle will be stabled. The
Northern Area Partnership Board
– New Life Resource Centre
5th April, 5.45pm
3rd May, 5.45pm
Eastern Area Partnership Board
– Five Lamps Organisation
20th April, 5.30pm
25th May, 9.30am
Western Area Partnership Board
– Municipal Buildings <strong>Stockton</strong>
26th April, 6pm
Central Area Partnership Board
– Education Centre
29th April, 2pm
27th May, 10am
Contact Sarah Upex on (01642) 526498
www.stockton.gov.uk/renaissance

32
news
Strong
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Communities
Asylum seekers
Continuing the real story…
...and busting the myths
In the last <strong>Stockton</strong> News we
featured the plight of asylum seekers
– we continue with another young
person’s experiences.
Firstly, imagine being moved to another country
where you know nothing whatsoever about
the culture and don’t speak one word of the
language……
This happened to John,
(name changed), from
Eritrea. His life was turned
upside down and his
home taken away because
his father was arrested for
airing his political views.
Initially John and his
siblings stayed with his
uncle. However, it was
not safe so his uncle made
arrangements for them to
flee the danger.
Arriving in England with very little belongings,
frightened and confused, John was allocated to
stay in London and was treat as though he was over
18. Normally young people under 18 stay, and are
supported, in the area of the UK where they first
arrive.
However, John’s demeanour indicated he was under
18 and unable to cope living on his own. A referral
was made to Health & Social Care with a request
to assess his age. This requires special skills and
qualifications.
Although carried out with sensitivity and care, an age
assessment medical examination can be extremely
upsetting and John had to endure several.
imagine being moved to
another country where you
know nothing whatsoever
about the culture and don’t
speak one word of the
language...
Assessment, over a period of time, by qualified
professionals, often using an interpreter, is designed
to gain information about a child’s background,
family tree, previous education, religion, country of
origin, the journey and how they present themselves.
Often children don’t have any documentation to show
their age, as not all countries and cultures attach
the same importance to chronological age, and birth
records and calendars are different in some counties.
Illegal trafficking may mean a child is portrayed as
being older to avoid immigration controls or checks by
Health & Social Care.
On arrival in <strong>Stockton</strong>
John was immediately
registered with a local
college to learn to
speak English and over
the next few years he
became heavily involved
in supporting others in
the same position. He
became a community
warden and registered
with the Prince’s Trust
whilst being involved with
many community projects and voluntary work.
After nearly ten years in the UK, and putting an
immense amount of time and energy into the
community, John is still waiting for a decision from
the Home Office.
Local registered charity Justice First works across
the Tees Valley with people who have been refused
asylum and help vulnerable people to find legal
representation and emergency support. Justice
First works closely with a number of other local
agencies including the Mary Thompson Fund and
the Medical Foundation for the Care of Victims of
Torture.
Asylum
seekers…
Myth: Nine out of ten
asylum seekers are bogus
The truth: The UK has a
very tough system. Asylum
seekers must provide
credible evidence of their
plight and persecution.
Many applications are
refused.
Myth: Asylum seekers are
linked to rising crime
The truth: A small minority
can who spoil it for the
rest. The Association
of Chief Police Officers
state there is no evidence
migrants commit any more
crime than anyone else.
Recent findings, presented
to the Home Secretary,
found offending rates are
in line with those in the
general population. They
are more likely to be a
victim of crime, suffering
racial harassment and
discrimination.
Myth: Asylum seekers
are given priority over
other council tenants for
properties.
The truth: They are housed
by organisations who are
paid directly by the Home
Office. such as private
landlords or with the local
authority.
Myth: They are stealing our
jobs
The truth: Once granted
status they are entitled to
work. Many must retrain
as their qualifications are
not recognised here. For a
doctor this means another
three years study.

news
Health
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Ready 4 Baby?
Getting ready to have a baby can be
a daunting time for anyone – but a
Children’s Centre parenting course is
helping put the fears of parents-to-be
aside as they prepare for their new
arrivals.
Ready 4 Baby is a 12-week course designed
to give pregnant women and their partners
a helping hand to prepare for the birth and
first few months of their baby’s life. It offers
advice and guidance on everything from basic
baby care skills and healthy eating tips to
learning how to coast the emotional highs
and lows of parenthood.
People are referred to the course through a
number of partners who work closely with
the programme. These include midwives,
Sure Start staff, social workers and other
specialist support staff.
The course which was successfully piloted
in 2009, at <strong>Stockton</strong>’s Redhill Children’s
Centre, is this year being rolled out to other
Children’s Centres across the Borough.
Carolyn Lakin, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Positive
and Wellbeing
Parenting Tutor leads the course. She says:
“By bringing mums and dads-to-be together
we are able to build their confidence,
providing the opportunity to develop their
knowledge of labour, birth and caring for a
newborn baby.”
Parents attending the course are able to gain
a qualification through the Open College
Network and, after the course has finished,
the new parents are offered support to access
other services.
Bridie Mahoney, new mum to Macy-Elizabeth,
attended the Ready 4 Baby course last year.
She says: “I haven’t been brought up around
babies and so didn’t know how to feed her
or anything. The course helped us with
everything from handling labour to bathing
your baby.”
Gemma Deighton who attended with her
partner Paul Johnson, said: “I really enjoyed
it. There were things I didn’t know even
though I already have children.”
To find out more contact Carolyn Lakin
on (01642) 524683 or email carolyn.lakin@
stockton.gov.uk
Page 33
Head this
way
Headway Teesside is
a local charity which
supports brain injury
survivors, their families,
friends and carers.
Based at Newport Community
Centre on St Paul’s Road,
Middlesbrough, it offers free
drop-in sessions, activities and
therapies, plus information
and support every Wednesday
(12 noon - 2pm). There is no
need to book – just turn up.
To find out more contact
Sue Moore on (01287) 642
389, email s.moore971@
btinternet.com or visit www.
headwayteesside.org.uk
Time to
change
NHS Tees has launched
a new campaign to help
raise awareness and
reduce stigma about
mental health problems.
‘Time to Change’ helps
challenge and address some
of the prejudices which
mental health sufferers can
experience, by highlighting
how one in four people suffer
from mental health problems,
such as stress and depression.
NHS Tees will also host a series
of community roadshows
across the Tees Valley, inviting
as many people as possible to
pledge their support for the
campaign’s message.
If you are worried that you,
a friend, work colleague
or family member could be
suffering from a mental health
problem, speak to someone
or contact your GP as soon as
possible.
Gemma Deighton with partner Paul Johnson and baby Chloe
It’s never too late to ask
for help and, with the right
support, people with mental
health problems can – and
do – usually make a full and
complete recovery. For more
details visit www.tees.nhs.uk

34
news
Health
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Wellbeing

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 35
A DAY
IN THE
LIFE
STEVE LASKEY
One man who walks
around 2,000 miles a
year to help others to
lead a fit and healthy
lifestyle is Steve Laskey,
health worker, for
the Council’s Sports
Development team.
In 2003 the Council started
Stepping Out in <strong>Stockton</strong>, a
programme of health walks
to encourage people to take
simple steps, get active and
improve their health. It
general feeling of better
health and wellbeing.
Steve, 47, says health is just
one of the reasons people
take part in the walks.
As he explains: “Our
walkers come from a
wide range of different
backgrounds and attend
for all kinds of reasons. For
some, it’s for exercise, for
others it’s to help manage
their weight. Some attend
purely as a social event – to
have a chat and get out
of the house. Whatever
the reason, they are a
committed bunch and
will turn up in the most
atrocious conditions.
“On almost every walk we
have someone who has
a story about how much
the walking has improved
their health, either physical
who freely give their time to
ensure the scheme is such a
success.
“I also organise regular
‘away days’ to places such
as Durham and Barnard
Castle to make the most of
the region’s natural beauty.
These regularly attract
around 70 walkers,“ he said.
And leading several walks
a day means Steve
certainly covers
the miles.
“My record
is five
walks in
one day
and I cover
around
2,000
miles a
year.”
In Steve’s spare time
he spends time in the
countryside near his Great
Ayton home, exploring the
North Yorkshire Moors,
where he also works as an
assistant ranger for the
North Yorkshire Moors
National Park.
To find out more about
health walks, contact Steve
Laskey on (01642) 526692 or
email
steve.laskey@
stockton.gov.uk
“My record is five walks in
one day and I cover around
2,000 miles a year.”
proved so popular that, six
years later, Steve and a team
of volunteer walk leaders
now lead 11 weekly and
four fortnightly walks across
the Borough.
Exercise is good for
everyone but experts hail
walking, in particular, as the
‘almost perfect exercise’.
Regular walking brings
many long-term health
benefits – reducing the risk
of coronary heart disease,
strokes, high blood pressure,
type II diabetes, bowel
cancer and the development
of osteoporosis.
The short-term benefits
include weight loss, better
strength and mobility,
improved mood and a
or mental. It’s extremely
rewarding to know you
are, in some way, helping
them.”
Steve has worked for
the Council for two
years. Normally
his day starts
in the office
before pounding
the Borough’s
pavements on his
first walk of the
day.
“We run at least
one walk every day,
meet at a regular
venue, register the
walkers, discuss the
route and then we’re
off. We rely heavily on
our volunteer walk leaders,
a fantastic group of people

36
news
Health
<strong>Stockton</strong>
and Wellbeing
Get lively...
Over 50s
get fit and
active
Last year <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council and NHS
<strong>Stockton</strong>-on-Tees funded
a number of projects
which helped the over
50s enjoy the outdoors,
get fit and meet new
people.
These included a gardening
course, rowing, running,
bowling, croquet, mobility
walks, short walks and
themed scenic walks.
Funding is again available to
support new and innovative
projects in the Borough.
The crew at St Bede’s RC Primary
...at lunchtime
The Lively Lunchtime Crew is an
exciting new programme set up by
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council to work in primary
schools.
Designed to refresh school lunchtimes and
teach children about healthy eating and
physical activity, the programme is led by
the Council’s Healthy Schools team.
The Crew is run by a specially trained team
From April, the Care Quality
Commission (CQC) – a new,
independent regulator – is gradually
introducing a new system for
standards of care across all health and
adult social care services in England.
Services, which will be regularly monitored
by CQC, will be licensed providing they meet
essential standards. This means you can
expect services to meet standards of quality
and safety which respect your dignity and
rights.
NHS Trusts are the first to come into the
new system when, for the first time, all NHS
of children selected by each of the schools.
By using games and a reward scheme, the
pupils get stuck into eating healthy and
getting active.
So far, pupils have shown outstanding
commitment and enthusiasm towards the
programme.
To find out more about the programme,
call Jennifer Edwards on (01642) 524733.
New standards of care
hospitals must, by law, be registered with
CQC. Assessors and inspectors are currently
reviewing NHS Trusts before licensing them to
operate.
CQC will publish information on its website
about the status of your NHS hospital which
will be updated with new information over
the year. Your voice will count in helping CQC
decide what judgements to take and they are
developing ways to enable you to feedback
your comments directly.
CQC have greater powers to ensure they can
take swift action where care providers are
failing people. To find out more about the
new system visit www.cqc.org.uk
One of the clubs awarded
funding last year was Ropner
Park Bowling Association
which ran a bowling for
beginners course. The
funding improved the club’s
facilities and delivered 90
hours of coaching over a sixweek
period. The club saw
an increase in season ticket
holders and casual bowlers
thanks to the popularity of
the over 50s course.
Watch out in future editions
of <strong>Stockton</strong> News for details
about the courses on offer or
call (01642) 526274, or email
andrea.hogg@stockton.gov.
uk

news
Your
<strong>Stockton</strong>
New guide to help the bereaved
A loved one’s death is traumatic
enough, so being faced with
registering the death, organising a
funeral and dealing with the Estate
can be overwhelming.
The Council’s Bereavement Service has
produced a Bereavement Guide, offering
a range of advice from the registration of
a death to dealing with probate. The allencompassing
guide is available free from the
Register Office in Balaclava Street, <strong>Stockton</strong>
and, shortly, from other Council buildings and
GP surgeries.
James Dooley, Bereavement Services Officer,
said: “Dealing with a bereavement can be
difficult but we hope this guide will help
families with some of the practicalities.
“The guide can also be used alongside
our ‘funeral wishes’ booklet, which can
be completed to record your personal
wishes for your own funeral. This could
include your choice of hymns or pieces
Council
of music, readings, named people to speak at
the funeral, choice of flowers and where your
cremated remains should be scattered.”
Both documents are free and
available by contacting
Bereavement Services
on (01642) 527341 or
527342.
Page 37
The way
forward…
In the last edition of
<strong>Stockton</strong> News we
gave details of the way
forward for the Council’s
‘executive arrangements’
for how the Council is
run – either by a Council
Leader or a directly
elected Mayor and
Cabinet.
All residents will be receiving
a letter explaining in detail
how the arrangements would
work and asking for views.
Those views will be taken
into consideration and taken
forward to the Council’s
Cabinet meeting. The final
outcome should be known by
September.
A sound plan for
the Borough
A strategy for future
development in the
Borough has received
the green light from an
independent Planning
Inspector.
The Core Strategy
Development Plan Document
is the first in a series of
planning documents
prepared under a new local
planning system. It sets out
the Council’s broad strategy
for future development for
the next 10 to 15 years.
In January, the Inspector
declared the plan as being
right for the Borough –
the culmination of several
years’ work and extensive
consultation with residents
and other organisations.
As well as the Council’s
vision and objectives for the
Borough, the Core Strategy
has policies on sustainable
transport, travel and living,
the economy, town centres,
the provision of community
facilities, housing, the
environment and planning
obligations.
Policies set out how the
objectives will be met and,
in some cases, give broad
locations where development
should take place.
The strategy will now
be used to inform other
documents and determine
planning applications.
Work will now focus on
other Local Development
Framework documents, in
particular the Regeneration
Development Plan Document
and Yarm and Eaglescliffe
Area Action Plan.
The Core Strategy will be
available from mid April. For
a copy or to find out more
visit www.stockton.gov.
uk/spatialplanning or call
(01642) 526197.
It’s a wrap
The Council’s Animal Welfare Service needs
donations of bedding for the dogs in their care.
The service, based in <strong>Stockton</strong>’s Church Road, takes in around 70
dogs each month. If you have any old blankets, towels, duvets or
sheets you could donate, please contact Animal Welfare Officers
on (01642) 526575 or email animal.welfare@stockton.gov.uk

38
news
Your
<strong>Stockton</strong>
Council

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 39
Value for money
and efficiencies
help keep Council
budget on course
Despite the effects of the ‘credit
crunch’ and rising pressures on
services, <strong>Stockton</strong> Borough Council
ratified proposals for an annual
Council tax rise of 2 per cent – half of
what the Council originally planned in
last year’s budget.
Thanks to putting in place long term financial
planning more than a decade ago, the
Council has been able to weather the recent
downturn and has continued to provide
efficient services and value for money for the
Borough’s residents.
For Band A Council Tax payers – almost half
the Borough’s total – the rise will mean an
extra 31 pence a week.
The Council estimates it will save £12m by
2013 through various initiatives. These
include its Efficiency, Improvement and
Transformation Programme which started last
year, reviewing travel allowances for Council
staff, looking at ways of extending partnering
with others such as the groundbreaking
public sector partnership already established
with Darlington Borough Council, and by
making the procurement process more
effective.
These savings will be achieved at the same
time as protecting front line services and
jobs and at a time when both Government
funding and income are reducing and
demands on services such as benefits,
safeguarding vulnerable people and personal
care for an aging population are increasing.
The budget has been put forward by the
Council’s power-sharing administration
formed by Labour and Conservative
Councillors.
Neil Schneider, <strong>Stockton</strong> Council’s Chief
Executive, said: “Although the times have
been testing for all local authorities, <strong>Stockton</strong>
has fared well. The Audit Commission has
recognised this by giving us a top ‘excellent’
rating for the way we use our resources. We
are one of the top three English unitary or
county councils to have achieved this.
“We are aware that the recession has hit
residents hard, which is why we have tried
to make the increase in Council Tax as low
as possible. Long term, robust financial
planning has allowed us to achieve this.
“Over the last year we have undertaken
a wide range of reviews of our services to
see whether there is a way in which we can
deliver quality services more efficiently for
our residents.
“We are a resilient organisation and will keep
on track with our programme of investment,
although we are aware of the need to plan
for the increased demands we are facing.”
Make
a call
Roseberry Library has a
new telephone linking
direct to the Council’s
Customer Service
Centres.
Free to use, it is the first of
what may be a small number
of access points to be trialled
at the Borough’s libraries
over the coming months. It
is another example of our
commitment to making
it as easy as possible for
people to contact services
such as bulky household
waste removal, council tax,
planning, school admissions,
highway maintenance and
many more.
A year
from
now…
A census takes place
every ten years and, a
year from now, the next
one is due.
The Office for National
Statistics will carry out the
census across England and
Wales on Sunday, 27 <strong>March</strong>
2011. Everyone is asked the
same questions on the same
day, to give a snapshot of the
population.
The information is used to
plan services and resources
such as transport, housing,
healthcare and education.
Respondents can complete
answers online or post
questionnaires back.
It’s vital everyone takes
part to give the best picture
possible, so mark the date in
your diary.

40
f
Northern
cus
DID YOU KNOW?
In the Borough’s northern area, criminal
damage is down 25 per cent and vehicle
crime down 24 per cent (April - December
2009 compared with the same period
of 2008).
WARD SURGERIES
1st APRIL <strong>2010</strong> – 30th MAY <strong>2010</strong>
www.stockton.gov.uk/wards
BILLINGHAM CENTRAL
6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
billinghamcentralward
21 Apr Billingham Youth &
Community Centre
12 May Billingham Youth &
Community Centre
COUNCILLORS
MRS ANN McCOY Tel: 01642 535604
Email: ann.mccoy@stockton.gov.uk
BARRY WOODHOUSE Tel: 01642 371638
Email: barry.woodhouse@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM EAST
www.stockton.gov.uk/
billinghameastward
30 Apr New Life Family Centre
5:00pm – 5:45pm
Synthonia Scout Group Hall
5:50pm – 6:30pm
28 May New Life Family Centre
Synthonia Scout Group Hall
5:00pm – 5:45pm
5:50pm – 6:30pm
COUNCILLORS
ALEX CUNNINGHAM Tel: 01642 551251
Email: alex.cunningham@stockton.gov.uk
MICK STOKER Tel: 01642 371641
Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM NORTH
6:30PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
billinghamnorthward
12 April High Grange Community
Centre
10 May North Billingham Methodist
Church
COUNCILLORS
HILARY AGGIO Tel: 01642 565016
Email: hilary.aggio@stockton.gov.uk
MRS LYNNE APEDAILE Tel: 01740 645216
Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.uk
COLIN LECKONBY Tel: 01642 872896
Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM SOUTH
6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
billinghamsouthward
8 Apr Billingham Branch Library
13 May Billingham Branch Library
COUNCILLORS
MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717
MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782
Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk
BILLINGHAM WEST
6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
billinghamwestward
30 Apr Wolviston Court Community
Centre
28 May Wolviston Court Community
Centre
COUNCILLORS
MRS MARY WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755
MICK WOMPHREY Tel: 01642 555755
NORTHERN PARISHES
7:00PM – 8:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
northernparishesward
1 Apr Wolviston Common Room
6 May Grindon Parish Hall,
Thorpe Thewles
COUNCILLOR
JOHN GARDNER Tel: 01740 645357
Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk
Focus On Your Area
A caring boy
Matthew Dovaston
from Billigham has a
busy schedule for a
14-year-old.
Living with his parents
and family, Matthew is the
eldest of four children.
Nothing remarkable in
that, you might think.
However, with both
parents in ill health, they
rely on Matthew to help
them – and that’s where
the real story starts.
For Matthew, a typical
morning begins around
6.30am by ensuring the
whole family is set up
for the day. This involves
helping his parents get up
and dressed and the others
have their breakfast.
His dad John, 54, believes
he’s very lucky to have such
a caring, thoughtful and
considerate son. “Matthew
is my little hero,” he said.
“It’s unbelievable how
quickly an illness can take
over your life and my son is
always there for the family
– he is extremely caring
and would do anything for
anyone.”
Matthew Dovaston with his dad John
Despite Matthew’s busy
schedule, he takes time
out to be involved in
local children’s charity the
Eastern Ravens Trust. This
charity supports children
and young people in a
situation like Matthew’s
by offering them the
opportunity to take part in
various activities.
The trust is based in
Newtown Community
Resource Centre, <strong>Stockton</strong>,
and Matthew really enjoys
having breaks such as visits
to the cinema and pizza
nights and even holidays.
He said: “I only found
out about Eastern Ravens
by chance when I had an
asthma attack and the
nurse told me about it. I
really enjoy going there
and meeting up with
everyone.”
To find out more about
Eastern Ravens Trust
and its work call (01642)
678454 or email info@
easternravenstrust.org

f Eastern
cus
<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 41
WARD SURGERIES
1st APRIL <strong>2010</strong> – 30th MAY <strong>2010</strong>
www.stockton.gov.uk/wards
INGLEBY BARWICK EAST
6:00PM – 7:00PM
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick
West)
www.stockton.gov.uk/
inglebybarwickeastward
8 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary
School
6 May All Saints C of E Secondary
School
Maltby & Hilton
Ward Surgeries are held for 30 minutes
prior to each Parish Council meeting
in the Village Halls on an appointment
only basis. Please contact Councillors
Faulks, Harrington or Larkin to book
an appointment. Residents are very
welcome to attend the monthly Ward
Surgery held in Ingleby Barwick
COUNCILLORS
KEVIN FAULKS Tel: 01642 764874
Email: kevin.faulks@stockton.gov.uk
DAVID HARRINGTON Tel: 01642 764652
Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.uk
ANDREW LARKIN Tel: n/a
Email: andrew.larkin@stockton.gov.uk
INGLEBY BARWICK WEST
6:00PM – 7:00PM
(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East)
www.stockton.gov.uk/
inglebybarwickwestward
8 Apr All Saints C of E Secondary
School
6 May All Saints C of E Secondary
School
COUNCILLORS
KEN DIXON Tel: 01642 764650
Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.uk
JEAN KIRBY Tel: 01642 762092
Email: jean.kirby@stockton.gov.uk
ROSS PATTERSON Tel: 01642 764865
Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk
MANDALE & VICTORIA
www.stockton.gov.uk/
mandalevictoriaward
No April surgeries
8 May Thornaby Library
11:00am – 12:00 noon
COUNCILLORS
TINA LARGE Tel: 01642 671903
Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.uk
MRS ALLISON TRAINER
Tel: n/a
STEVE WALMSLEY Tel: 01642 604176
STAINSBY HILL
www.stockton.gov.uk/stainsbyhillward
15 Apr South Thornaby Community
& Resource Centre
6:00pm – 7:00pm
15 May Thornaby Pavilion
11:00am – 12:00
COUNCILLORS
MRS EILEEN CRAGGS MBE
Tel: 01642 764858
Email: eileen.craggs@stockton.gov.uk
MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEY
Tel: 01642 602375
Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk
VILLAGE
5:00PM – 6:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/villageward
12 Apr Thornaby Pavilion
10 May Thornaby Pavilion
COUNCILLORS
IAN DALGARNO Tel: 01642 882985
MICK EDDY Tel: 01642 765919
An African adventure
A group of Year 9 and 10 pupils at All Saints School
are racing against the clock to raise £20,000 to fund
a life-changing visit to South West Africa.
Through sponsored walks, raffles, supermarket bag packs and
cake stalls the youngsters have already raised an incredible
£20,000 to fund the trip which will see them volunteer in a
school in rural Namibia.
But they have only got months to raise the rest of the money.
Jordan Boyd (pictured) is one of 20 youngsters hoping to go
on the trip. She said: “If we do not make £20,000, our parents
will have to find the excess and it may cause some students
to drop out, including me as my mum could not afford to pay
this much.”
Anyone able to help the students can get in touch with Mr
Belshaw at All Saints School on (01642) 754650.
Let the journey begin
Poet in residence at
Thornaby Central
Library, Mike Edwards,
had the brilliant idea
of creating lasting
memories and thoughts
of the community, with
the Journeys project.
Along with Mike’s own
poems, members of the
public added their own
thoughts and verses to
a blank book which will
contribute to the history of
tomorrow.
Workshops also took place
with library users, young
and old alike and students
studying English as a second
language to encourage
them to think about writing
stories, poetry and songs.
You can find the book at
Thornaby Central Library
where you can borrow it for
up to three days or use it
within the library.
The whole project was
managed by performer
Richard Bliss with <strong>Stockton</strong>
Library Service and Apples
and Snakes a leading
organisation who arrange
workshops for performance
poetry in the UK.
DID YOU
KNOW?
In the Borough’s eastern
area, dwelling burglary is
down 36 per cent and motor
vehicle theft is down 31per
cent (April - December 2009
compared with the same
period of 2008).

42
f Central
cus
Focus On Your Area
Hedging your bets
Volunteers got their
hands dirty by planting
600 new saplings at
Bowesfield Pond (known
locally as The Brickie).
The Environment Agency is
funding the venture, which
it is carrying out jointly with
<strong>Stockton</strong> Council, Natural
England and Groundwork.
The hedgerow consists
of native species such as
hawthorn, blackthorn and
hazel and the new saplings
will fill any of the gaps in the
existing hedge.
This will be the first in a
series of improvements to
the site, with all the partners
contributing.
For more information, contact
Terry Douthwaite, <strong>Stockton</strong>
Council’s Local Nature Reserves
Officer on (01642) 676407
or email terry.douthwaite@
stockton.gov.uk
Secret garden
One tranquil area near to the town centre is
undergoing improvements.
Work to the Parish Gardens includes the removal of the majority of
existing shrubs to allow selective replanting of replacements, as well
as spring and summer bulbs to create all year round floral colour.
There will also be repairs to paving and the ornamental perimeter
fencing and replacement of bins and benches.
The Council is working with Tees Archaeology, with supervised
offenders from Kirklevington Prison carrying out the initial removal
of the shrubs.
WARD SURGERIES
1st APRIL <strong>2010</strong> – 30th MAY <strong>2010</strong>
www.stockton.gov.uk/wards
BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE
(STOCKTON)
www.stockton.gov.uk/
bishopsgarthelmtreeward
13 Apr Elm Tree Community
Centre
6:00pm – 7:00pm
10 May Bishopsgarth School
6:00pm – 6:30pm
11 May Elm Tree Community
Centre
6:00pm – 7:00pm
COUNCILLORS
MRS SUZANNE FLETCHER MBE
Tel: 01642 787652
Email: suzanne.fletcher@stockton.gov.uk
MRS JULIA CHERRETT Tel: 01642 785473
Email: julia.cherrett@stockton.gov.uk
FAIRFIELD 6:00PM – 6:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/fairfieldward
12 Apr Fairfield Library
10 May Fairfield Library
COUNCILLORS
MAURICE PERRY Tel: 01642 586914
BILL WOODHEAD Tel: 01642 584409
GRANGEFIELD 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/grangefieldward
5 Apr Fairfield Library
8 Apr Grays Road Institute
10 May Hartburn Scout Group Hut
13 May Grays Road Institute
COUNCILLORS
PHILLIP BROUGHTON
Tel: 01642 765325
Email: phillip.broughton@stockton.gov.uk
AIDAN COCKERILL Tel: 01642 613258
Email: aidan.cockerill@stockton.gov.uk
HARDWICK WARD 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/hardwickward
9 Apr Hardwick Community Centre
23 Apr Hardwick Community Centre
7 May Hardwick Community Centre
21 May Hardwick Community Centre
COUNCILLORS
MRS LIZ NESBITT Tel: 01642 601731
BILL NOBLE Tel: 01642 671609
HARTBURN 6:45PM – 7:30PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/hartburnward
12 Apr Elmwood Community Centre
10 May Holy Trinity Rosehill CE
Primary School
COUNCILLORS
TERRY LAING Tel: 01642 587356
Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.uk
KEN LUPTON Tel: 01642 587286
Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk
NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/newtownward
2 Apr Ragworth Neighbourhood
Centre
16 Apr Newtown Community
Resource Centre
30 Apr Ragworth Neighbourhood
Centre
14 May Newtown Community
Resource Centre
28 May Ragworth Neighbourhood
Centre
COUNCILLORS
PAUL BAKER Tel: 01642 608406
Email: paul.baker@stockton.gov.uk
BOB GIBSON OBE Tel: 01642 614482
Email: robert.gibson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonnorthward
14 Apr Norton North Community &
Resource Centre
28 Apr Norton Library
12 May Frederick Nattrass Primary
School
26 May Norton North Community &
Resource Centre
COUNCILLORS
MAURICE FRANKLAND Tel: 01642 552861
MRS KATH NELSON Tel: 01642 555729
Email: kathryn.nelson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonsouthward
9 Apr Albany Resource Centre
23 Apr Assembly Hall, St John
Ambulance
7 May Lustrum Community House
21 May Albany Resource Centre
COUNCILLORS
BOB COOK TEL: 01642 890058
Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.uk
STEVE NELSON TEL: 01642 534417
Email: steve.nelson@stockton.gov.uk
NORTON WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/nortonwestward
6 Apr The Education Centre
4 May The Education Centre
COUNCILLORS
MRS ANN CAINS Tel: 01642 555394
Email: ann.cains@stockton.gov.uk
DICK CAINS JP Tel: 01642 555394
Email: dick.cains@stockton.gov.uk
PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE
6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
parkfieldoxbridgeward
1 Apr Parkfield Community Centre
(Cllr Javed only)
Oxbridge Christian Fellowship
(Cllr Rix only)
15 Apr Oxbridge Christian Fellowship
6 May Parkfield Community Centre
(Cllr Javed only)
Oxbridge Christian Fellowship
(Cllr Rix only)
20 May Oxbridge Christian Fellowship
COUNCILLORS
MOHAMMED JAVED Tel: 01642 602420
ROY RIX Tel: 01642 674861
Email: roy.rix@stockton.gov.uk
ROSEWORTH
www.stockton.gov.uk/roseworthward
12 Apr Kiora Hall Youth & Community
Centre 5:15pm – 6:15pm
11 May Kiora Hall Youth & Community
Centre 2:00pm – 3:00pm
COUNCILLORS
JIM BEALL Tel: 01642 602510
Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.uk
MISS BARBARA INMAN Tel: 01642 586564
Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk
STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE
6:00PM – 7:00PM
www.stockton.gov.uk/
stocktontowncentreward
1 Apr The Willows Centre
8 Apr Parkfield Community Centre
15 Apr Victoria Community Centre
22 Apr Cornerhouse Community
Resource Centre
6 May The Willows Centre
13 May Parkfield Community Centre
20 May Victoria Community Centre
27 May Cornerhouse Community
Resource Centre
COUNCILLORS
DAVID COLEMAN Tel: 01642 673952
Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk
PAUL KIRTON Tel: 01642 559331
DID YOU
KNOW?
In the Borough’s central
area, robbery is down 54
per cent and theft from a
motor vehicle down 31 per
cent (April - December 2009
compared with the same
period of 2008).

f Western
cus
<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 43
WARD SURGERIES
1st APRIL <strong>2010</strong> – 30th MAY <strong>2010</strong>
www.stockton.gov.uk/wards
EAGLESCLIFFE
www.stockton.gov.uk/eaglescliffeward
9 Apr Trinity Methodist Church
6:30 – 7:30pm
20 Apr Egglescliffe Parish Hall
6:00 – 7:00pm
7 May Trinity Methodist Church
6:30 – 7:30pm
18 May Egglescliffe Community
Centre 6:30 – 7:30pm
COUNCILLORS
JOHN FLETCHER Tel: 01642 787652
Email: john.fletcher@stockton.gov.uk
ALAN LEWIS Tel: 01642 784910
Email: alan.lewis@stockton.gov.uk
MRS MAUREEN RIGG Tel: 01642 785689
Email: maureen.rigg@stockton.gov.uk
WESTERN PARISHES
www.stockton.gov.uk/
westernparishesward
6 Apr Stillington Village Hall,
Stillington,
6:30pm – 7:00pm
20 May Elton Hall Nursing Home,
Elton
6:15pm – 6:45pm
COUNCILLOR
FRED SALT Tel: 01740 630771
YARM
www.stockton.gov.uk/yarmward
6 Apr Levendale Primary School
6:00pm – 6:45pm
4 May Yarm Library
6:00pm – 6:45pm
COUNCILLORS
MRS JENNIE BEAUMONT Tel: 01642 785304
Email: jennie.beaumont@stockton.gov.uk
JACKIE EARL Tel: 01642 786346
ANDREW SHERRIS Tel: 01642 786767
Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.uk
Bonjour Beth
Rower Beth Bryan, 16,
recently returned from
an intensive training
camp in France with
Great Britain’s junior
rowing team.
A pupil at Egglescliffe
School, Beth was one of
16 youngsters selected
nationally to be part of the
GB under-18s rowing team.
She is part of the British
Rowing Siemans World Class
Start Programme and a
member of Tees Active Sports
Academy.
Beth and other potential GB
junior team members were
put through their paces at
the camp. They trained
up to four times per day,
with water sessions on the
River Loire and indoor gym
sessions.
She said: “The camp was
tough but really enjoyable. I
was delighted to be selected
for the squad and my main
aim is to gain selection
and become an established
member of the Great Britain
junior team.”
To find out more about
Tees Active Sports Academy,
call Allan McDermott on
(01642) 528772 or visit www.
teesactive.co.uk
Preparing for
the season
Yarm Cricket Club has started
its indoor nets at All Saints
School, Ingleby Barwick
(next to Tesco) on Mondays
6 - 8pm for juniors under
15, and Tuesdays 8 - 9pm for
seniors.
All old and new members
welcome, call M. Green
07904 386 085 for more
information.
DID YOU
KNOW?
Violent crime in this part
of the Borough is down by
32 per cent. Other theft is
down by 33 per cent (April
- December 2009 compared
with the same period
of 2008).

What’s
On
A look at what’s going on
around the Borough during
Regular
Events
Let your kids get crafty
There’s a new Art & Craft club for 5 – 8 year olds
and 9-13 year olds at Fairfield Library. 5-8 years olds
meet fortnightly on Saturday mornings from 10.30am
– 12.00pm and 9-13 year olds meet fortnightly on
Wednesday evenings 5.30pm-6.30pm. To find out
more call the library on (01642) 527962 for more
details.
Ethnic Benefit Advice
Thornaby Library Westbury Street
Tuesdays 2 – 5 pm
Advice and information.
Tel 528150
Wednesday talks
Norton Library.
Every first Wednesday of the month – 3pm.
Guest speaker and
Refreshments. Free. Tel 528019
Two o’clock Rhymetime
Norton Library.
Every Wednesday 2pm
Stories, rhymes and activities for the under 5s
Tel 528019
3 April
<strong>Stockton</strong> Calling
ARC, Georgian Theatre, Ku, 12noon-12 pm
Experience first class live music on your doorstep. See
local acts ‘Russell and the Wolves’, ‘Idiot Savant’, ‘Be
Quiet, Shout Loud’, ‘Lifeless’, ‘Jimmy and the Sounds’
and ‘Dirty Weekend’ plus touring bands. For the full
line up visit www.arconline.co.uk or tel 525199
Books, biccies and teenz tales
Do you have a child who enjoys reading? Would
you like be the first to get your hands on a
selection of brand new books for 7–11 and 11–16
year olds? Why not encourage them to join
Fairfield Library’s Book ‘n’ Biccy Club or Teenz Tales
reading groups. Both groups meet monthly on
Mondays, 5.30 - 6.30pm Tel 527962
Saturday storytime
Norton Library.
Every Saturday 2.15pm
Stories for the under 5s Tel 528019
Scrabble group
Norton Library every Wednesday 1pm
Tel 528019
4 April
Crafty Easter
Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, 10.30am-noon
Come along to the Woodland Park’s Visitor Centre
and have a go at making a crafty seasonal gift. All
materials are supplied free. Please book in advance.
Tel 371633
Hula fitness
Each Monday – 5-11 years, 4.30pm - 5.30pm
Ingleby Barwick Community Centre, Haresfield Way
£2 per session. To book a place tel 524599
April
6 April
Hester Hare’s Great Easter Egg Hunt
Wynyard Woodland Park, 1.30pm – 3.00pm
Find Hester Hare’s Easter Eggs hidden around the
Park and take part in our fun family photo quiz. Meet
outside the railway carriage.
Tel 01740 630011
1, 9, 16, 23 April
Public observing
Wynyard Woodland Planetarium and
Observatory 9pm onwards
Tel 01740 630544
Colouring Club
Roseworth Library
Every day except Wednesday 3pm – 6pm
Tel 528098
Colouring Club
Billingham Library
Every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am
Materials provided.
Tel 527895
Parent and Toddler Group
Fairfield Library
Every Wednesday 10 – 11am
Group for under fives and their carers
Tel 527962
2 April
Easter Fun at the Beck
Billingham Beck Valley Country Park, 1.30-3.00pm
Come and decorate an egg and then have a short
walk to the highest point in the valley to see who
can roll theirs the furthest distance. Please bring two
hard-boiled eggs! Meet at the Ecology Park Visitor
Centre. Tel 360376
3 April
Alpine Garden Society Show
The Cleveland Group of the Alpine Garden Society
will be holding its Annual Show from 12 noon to 4pm
at Ian Ramsey C of E School (North Site), Fairfield
Road, <strong>Stockton</strong>. Admission £2 ( free to AGS member,
and children accompanied by adults ). See wonderful
display of Alpine Plants/ shrubs also for sale.
7 April
What did you do in the war Gran?
Norton Library 3pm
Free talk from Margaret Flick with her
wartime experiences in the A.T.S. and Bletchely Park
Tel 528019
7 April
Orienteering in the Park
John Whitehead Park, 10am -12pm
Have you ever wanted to put your map reading skills
to the test? Then why don’t you drop in to John
Whitehead Park and take part in our free introduction
to orienteering event. Come appropriately dressed for
the weather conditions. Meet outside the café.

<strong>Stockton</strong> News <strong>March</strong> / April <strong>2010</strong>
Page 45
<strong>March</strong>, April and May
8 April
Have fun being healthy
Trinity Gardens, 11-3pm
A fun, interactive event open to all young people
from 11-25 years. Come along for information and
advice on healthy lifestyles, plus fantastic activities
and prizes. Tel 526828
13 April
Grow your own
Norton Library, 2-3.30pm
Veg growing advice from the experts
Come and ask the panel. Free. Refreshments.
Tel 528019
May
2 May
Early Birds
Billingham Beck Valley Country Park
Meet at the Ecology Park Visitor Centre 7– 9am
Come along on this early morning bird watch to see
what birds can be discovered in which habitats at
Billingham Beck. Tel 360376
2 May
Leven Loop Walk
10.00am-3.00pm
An 11-mile walk through the picturesque Leven Valley
taking in Middleton-on-Leven and Crathorne. Meet:
Outside the Crown Hotel, Kirklevington. NB. Please do
not use the Crown’s car park, but park considerately
in the village.
9 May
Competitive Futsal (indoor football)
Thornaby Pavilion 1.30pm
Spectators most welcome - M’bro Futsal Club
9 May <strong>2010</strong>
Didgeridoo Workshop
Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, 1pm-4pm
Come along and have a go at playing this mysterious
instrument. There are limited places available on this
event, so book early to avoid disappointment.
£3.50 per person. Tel 371633
15 May <strong>2010</strong>
Bat Watch
Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, 8.30pm-
10.00pm
Find out about the Park’s bats from a local enthusiast.
You will be able to use bat detectors and ask plenty of
questions. Tel 371633
10 April
British Junior Wrestling
Championships
Thornaby Pavilion 10am
13 April
Beaky Birds and Balancing Bugs
Preston Hall Museum,
10.30am – Noon & 1.00pm - 2.30pm
Come and meet Preston Park’s resident birds of prey
at close quarters, including
our barn owl, kestrel and buzzard, Then make a
gravity defying craft bug to take home. Charge £2.
Booking essential. Please call 527562
18 April
Competitive Futsal (indoor football)
Thornaby Pavilion 1.30pm
Spectators most welcome
M’bro Futsal Club. Tel 760971
25 April
Competitive Futsal (indoor football)
Thornaby Pavilion 1.30pm
Spectators most welcome
M’bro Futsal Club. Tel 760971
2 May
Infinity Spring Festival
Celebrate the beginning of spring
with activities around Infinity Bridge.
Bring the family. www.stockton.gov.uk/infinity or tel
527696 for details.
May 3
Tees Barrage 10K Road Race
The race commences at 10.30am beginning and
ending at the Tees Barrage, circumnavigating the river
Tees between the Newport and Millennium bridges.
Maximum 500 entries. Forms are available on www.
teesbarrage10k.co.uk
3 May
Nursery Rhyme Ramble
Wynyard Woodland Park
1pm– 2.30pm. A short walk for young families
through the woods and meadows stopping along the
way to hear tales of our favourite nursery characters.
Booking essential. Meet outside the railway carriage.
Tel 01740 630011
5 May
The stars fell on <strong>Stockton</strong>
Norton Library 3pm
In local history month come and find out about the
Globe theatre and the stars who performed there.
Tel 528019
May 6 and 12
Walk through Saxon & Medieval
Norton.
Meet at Norton Library 2pm. One mile walk. Not
suitable for wheelchairs.
Booking essential on 528019.
May 15
Tees Regatta
Come down to River Tees Watersports Centre on
Northshore between 9am-6pm where rowing races
take place on the 850m course between Tees Barrage
and Princess Diana Bridge. Rowers from clubs, schools
and universities from across the region.
15 May
Disabled Scooter Ramble
<strong>Stockton</strong> – meet by the Swallow Hotel,
11am – 4pm
A seven mile ranger led excursion, planned for
users of electric scooters. The route runs along the
river stopping at the Tees Barrage for lunch before
continuing through two Wildlife Trust nature reserves.
Either bring a packed lunch or have lunch at the café.
Remember to wrap up warm. Please call 527562
to book a place. Electric Scooters can be booked
through <strong>Stockton</strong> Shopmobility on 605676.
16 May
Competitive Futsal
Thornaby Pavilion 1.30pm
(indoor football)
Spectators most welcome
M’bro Futsal Club
17 May
Health Walk
Billingham Beck Valley Country Park,
10am – 12pm
‘Walking the way to health’ is an initiative to
encourage people to undertake daily exercise. Meet
outside the entrance to Boyes, Billingham Town
Centre. Stout footwear recommended. Suitable for
all ages. Tel 360376
May 19 and 25
St Mary’s Church guided visit.
Meet at Norton Library 5.30pm. Lasts one hour. See
this building at the heart of the community for 1,000
years. Booking essential tel 528019.