Archive
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Countryside needs minimum of £300m
A MINIMUM of £300m should be released by the government immediately as a rescue package for farms and businesses hit by foot-and-mouth. Mr Anthony Bosanquet, national president of the Country Land and Business Association, made his appeal at a fringe
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Teenage rider takes national dressage title
A CLEVELAND teenager is believed to be the youngest ever winner of a major prize at the national dressage championships. Anne-Marie Perry from Stotfold Crest Stables, Elwick, won the elementary restricted championship, which is open to all ages, at Stoneleigh
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Systems Go for cheap flights
THOUSANDS of North-East travellers stand to benefit from cheaper flights, after the region's first bargain basement airline announced a £10 fare to London. Cut price airline Go announced yesterday that it would begin flights between Newcastle International
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Witton course ready to stage extra event
ORGANISERS of a popular horse trials event have added an extra course to make up for a spring competition which was cancelled because of foot-and-mouth restrictions. After a busy weekend, the challenging course at Witton Castle, near Bishop Auckland,
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Athletics News
AT the Tyneside 10-mile road race Bob Davison was the only Shildon runner on a windswept course between Hexham and Ovingham along the Tyne Valley. Bob had a much improved run to finish in 28th position just missing out on the third over 50 prize in a
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Adams lecture switched after row
PUBLIC anger has forced organisers of a lecture by Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams to change the venue. The controversial republican leader was to give a talk at Thirsk Town Hall in North Yorkshire next Friday. But local protests have forced organisers
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Part-time soldiers with a full-time sense of commitment
TERRITORIAL Army reserves from the region visited Gloucestershire last week, where they laid extensive railway sidings at a military transport depot during a major engineering project. The work was designed to get more heavy army vehicles off the roads
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Junior Football
THE Under-8 Hornets came from behind to win 3-2 against Redby Blues with a magnificent hat-trick from Luke Sproates. The second match against Whitburn & Cleadon was postponed. Man of the match was Sproates The Under-9 Midges team were beaten by Humbledon
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IT has to be good news . . .
PUPILS at four primary schools in Hartlepool are to benefit from the latest information technology equipment. Barnard Grove, Lynnfield, Jesmond Road and St John Vianney RC primary schools have made successful bids totalling £37,000. The money is coming
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Farmers take campaign to the ports
FARMERS took their campaign against illegally imported food to the River Tees port health authority in Middlesbrough on Monday. The delegation was taking part in a day of action at seaports around the UK to persuade the government to step up border controls
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One of area's first farm shops is almost invisible from road
A COUPLE'S plans to extend their farm shop are being hampered by a lack of signs. Mr Rodney Ake and his wife, Gillian, have operated Spring House farm shop on the main Leeming to Northallerton Road since 1997 and, although they have slowly built up a
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Council rejects hostel claims
A COUNCIL has responded to concerns that it worked in tandem with an agency hoping to build a controversial bail hostel. Chester-le-Street District Council threw out plans for the 25-bed town centre hostel last year, but residents have since questioned
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Fingers crossed for South Park lottery windfall
LOTTERY representatives visited Darlington yesterday to consider whether the council should receive a grant to improve the once prestigious South Park, which has become rundown and vandalised. The heritage lottery fund is expected to make an announcement
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Library learning link to university
A NOVEL learning scheme has been launched to help residents of a remote town take a course run by a university situated miles away. In fact, people wanting to study local history need go no further than their library in Loftus. Coun Vilma Collins, mayor
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Quakers lose in seven goal thriller
Darlington kicked-off a month of very tough fixtures with a defeat at Luton Town on Friday night, and although it will be of no consolation to Gary Bennett or the hundreds of Quakers fans who made the trip, the match was a hugely entertaining affair.
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Recycling plea to help homeless pets
SCHOOLS, businesses and households are being asked to recycle rubbish to help unwanted animals. Sally Rowley, from the Weardale Sanctuary, near Stanhope, is appealing for people to save waste aluminium foil and cans which can be recycled to raise money
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Red hot summer for Bishop's junior team
Bishop Auckland's Golf Club's junior members enjoyed a successful summer as they scooped two trophies in Durham competitions. They won both the Durham County Junior Golf Society Southern League (DCJGS) and then became overall Durham County champions,
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Brush up your art talent
HUNDREDS of people will be drawing on their talents at an event in Durham City next weekend. The Big Draw, organised by Durham County Council, will give people of all ages the chance to work with professional artists. The event, part of the nationwide
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Police officer wins case
A JUDGE yesterday criticised Cleveland Police for hectoring one of its own officers over the alleged theft of a computer games console. Single mother Kerry Lockwood yesterday won her appeal against her conviction and sentence at Teesside Crown Court.
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Paralysed driver wins damages
A MOTORIST left paralysed after a tree crushed his car has won his battle for compensation. Michael Rowe suffered "catastrophic" injuries after an ash tree fell on to his VW Polo as he travelled along the B1278 towards Fishburn, County Durham, on November
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The power of that ear pain
THE less she says and the more little snippets of information we glean about her, the more fascinating Cherie Blair becomes. Ever since her hair blew back in the wind to reveal an acupuncture ear pin, designed to boost energy and help the wearer stay
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Frankly, it's the only way to shop
THIS is shopping, but not as we know it. I am sitting in a comfy chair, drinking a coffee and reading a magazine. Gosh, life is hard. Meanwhile, Ann Watson is scouring the racks of Debenhams for clothes for me. Welcome to the world of Personal Shoppers
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Shoppers pay more despite store cuts
SHOP prices increased for the first time in three months in September, despite fierce competition among the major supermarkets, new figures have revealed. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said prices on the high street rose by 0.77 per cent in the
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It's amazing what some people find in their lofts
The Great North Football Memorabilia Auction takes place on October 25. There is lots, and there are lots, to recall. There are blazer badges, bone china, even a Hepworth's blotter; there's a pair of Army cuff links (as given to Middlesbrough FC), a World
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The case against bin Laden
'There is evidence of a very specific nature relating to the guilt of Osama bin Laden and his associates that is too sensitive to release." Those are the key words of the 20-page dossier released by Downing Street to back up its case for military action
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All hands to the pump and brewery is kept busy pumping bridge ale
GEORDIE beer drinkers have toasted the success of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge by downing 10,000 pints of a celebration ale in just under a month. Beer drinkers got their first taste of the beer, brewed by Mordue Brewery, of Wallsend, to celebrate
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Bunker body case man in court
A MAN accused of butchering a woman and hiding her dismembered body in a coal house has appeared in court. William Johnstone, 27, spoke only to confirm his name during the short hearing at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday. He is accused of murdering Sandra
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Beach death mum is buried
THE funeral of a mother-of-four whose body was found on a North-East beach took place yesterday. The body of 44-year-old former teacher Debra McNicholas was found near the children's paddling pool in Redcar almost three weeks ago. Although a post-mortem
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International stage for digital media
DIGITAL media companies have the opportunity to take their businesses to an international market next week. Digital Media Network, which represents the region, is holding an event to help firms find out more about exhibiting at Milia 2002, a multimedia
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Four more added to Quakers' growing sick list
Just as two players have struck themselves off the Darlington sick list, four more are now doubtful for tonight's test at Luton Town. Neil Wainwright and David Brightwell are back in the reckoning for a first team spot, but Barry Conlon, Danny Mellanby
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It's amazing what some people find in their lofts
The Great North Football Memorabilia Auction takes place on October 25. There is lots, and there are lots, to recall. There are blazer badges, bone china, even a Hepworth's blotter; there's a pair of Army cuff links (as given to Middlesbrough FC), a World
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New diner is popular with pupils
A DINING room at a Hartlepool school has been transformed into a restaurant. The Dyke House City Diner, at Dyke House School, offers a wide range of meals and snacks in bright and airy surroundings. The biggest innovation, however, is the introduction
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Children killen in blaze
Two children died today in a house fire, police said. The blaze happened about 2am at a home in Charlbury Road, in the Pallister Park area of Middlesbrough, where the children were being looked after by teenage babysitters. Cleveland Police named the
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Location, location - students have it taped
BUSINESS students from Stokesley school have seen demand outstrip supply for their new documentary video about the area. The sixth form entrepreneurs wrote and produced a promotional video about Stokesley and Great Ayton, and copies were snapped up when
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Through the eyes of mum
For ten years she's put up with the one-sided accounts of family life seen through the eyes of her husband. So, for one week only, Dad At Large is commandeered by HEATHER BARRON to reflect on a momentous time in her life - her last baby starting school
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Reporter on desert duty with RAF Leeming
IN the baking heat of a Middle Eastern desert, service people from RAF Leeming are sleeping eight to a tent and drinking up to seven litres of bottled water a day to help fend off heat exhaustion. Fifteen regional reporters, including Brian Redhead of
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Life-saver group in appeal
Sedgefield First Responders, initiated by the Sedgefield Development Partnership, has held its first training sessions and formed its own organisation, with the Mayor of Sedgefield, Councillor Ellen Robinson, as the group's patron. The group aims to offer
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Club passes the message
A NORTH-East football club with a squad of many nationalities is helping get the latest soccer anti-racism message across. Actors from TV series Byker Grove and Newcastle Eagles basketball player Ian Whyte joined Newcastle United defender Warren Barton
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Greenway progress to be reviewed
COUNCILLORS will meet tomorrow to discuss progress on the Hartlepool Western Greenway. In 1998, the Tees Forest Team identified several greenways within Hartlepool, the main one being the Hartlepool Western Greenway, which connects Summerhill Country
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£5m woodland plan takes root
HUNDREDS of acres of farmland across County Durham could be turned into woodland through a green project. A five-year scheme, costing up to £5m, is being drawn up to plant species on former coalfield sites that were turned into fields 30 years ago. The
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Looking Back
FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - Another attempt will be made to get Romanby included in the Northallerton Urban Council's area by an appeal to the North Riding County Council, and perhaps an impartial judge would admit that Northallerton has a strong
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Life-saver group in appeal
Sedgefield First Responders, initiated by the Sedgefield Development Partnership, has held its first training sessions and formed its own organisation, with the Mayor of Sedgefield, Councillor Ellen Robinson, as the group's patron. The group aims to offer
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Put your views on future of food and farming
THE policy commission on the future of farming and food has launched its consultation document. Sir Donald Curry, chairman, said they wanted the views of all those with an interest in the future of farming and food. Responses should be sent to: Sir Donald
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Traders call for bigger car park
A CALL was made this week for a multi-storey car park to be built in Thirsk to alleviate parking problems. Traders believe the lack of a large car park is the most important issue to be tackled with money given to the town under the market towns inititive
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Past uncovered in office move
A RECENT move unearthed a collection of printing samples revealing hidden details about Redcar's past. Printer and stationer AA Sotheran Ltd moved to a new office when the firm refurbished part of its Queen Street premises. Clearing out the cupboards
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Shop owner to defy council over window poster
A VILLAGE store owner has vowed to keep an advertising poster in his shop window, despite the threat of prosecution by his district council. Mr Dave Greenland, who owns the Spar corner shop in Gainford, said he had already met planning officers halfway
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Scottish team prepares to defend vaulting title in Richmond
THE national equestrian vaulting championships will be held at Richmond equestrian centre next Saturday, October 13. After visiting Richmond earlier this year, the Scottish team will again be making the trip south to defend their title. A total of 12
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Mon dieu, a jolie slice of French life
Film distributors are hoping British audiences will embrace an elfin-like woman who has already won the heart of a French President and millions of cinemagoers across the Channel. The movie hit Amelie opens here today, backed by a reported £600,000 publicity
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Snooker News
Worthington CIU Team Knock-out - Langley Park and Spennymoor A will contest the final after they came through their semi-finals with fairly comfortable victories. Langley Park beat Hunwick at Leeholme, whilst Spennymoor A defeated Fishburn A at Sherburn
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Support grows for city academy education
THE governors of East Cleveland's ground-breaking new college have come down firmly on the side of aiming for a city academy. The Freebrough community college governors say the idea gives the chance to deliver the vision of 21st century education that
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Consett & Stanley - Waiting and hoping
THE family of former Advertiser journalist Yvonne Ridley were praying for good news this week as Foreign Office delegations made contact with the Taliban to try to secure her release. The 43-year-old Sunday Express reporter was arrested by the Afghanistan
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The Albany Northern League
Seaham Red Star manager Wilf Constantine is hoping that former Hartlepool midfielder Gus DiLella can make a huge difference in their relegation fight. Constantine just managed to sign the Argentinian in time for their game against West Auckland last Saturday
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Men are found guilty of attack
TWO men accused of wielding weapons including a poker, coal shovel and walking stick during an attack were yesterday found guilty. The jury at Teesside Crown court delivered guilty verdicts on Paul Robinson, 27, who was accused of causing grievous bodily
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The Northern Echo Darlington Sunday Invitation League
DIVISION Three was the only division where all of the scheduled games took place. And, in familiar style, AFC Orange once more picked up three points, as they beat AXA Insurance 4-1. It took three goals in the last 20 minutes to give Orange the points
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Falcons link up with Carmel
THE Newcastle Falcons have adopted Carmel RC Technology College as part of their schools foster scheme initiative. The school have been playing rugby for only three years so this is very prestigious honour for Carmel. As part of the scheme a player is
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Sheepless in Masham but still a wonderful day
PILGRIMAGE: defined in the dictionary as a journey to a place revered for its associations. And it was with something of that feeling Spectator set forth on Saturday for Masham Sheep Fair, where this year the sheep were made of wood, metal, cardboard,
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Consett & Stanley - Daffodil bulbs on offer to community groups
A GREEN charity is hoping to make Derwentside a more colourful place next spring. The Delves Lane-based Acorn Trust is giving away bulbs to ten local community groups, who devise imaginative planting designs. A spokesman for the trust said: "The project
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Children 'at risk' as school patrol job stays vacant
CHILDREN attending a Richmond school have been left without a "lollipop" man or woman to help them across a busy road. No suitable candidates have applied for the job of crossing patrol person outside Richmond lower school, in Station Road. The vacancy
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Garrison to host charity challenge
THERE is a bit of a carry on planned at Catterick Garrison this weekend, with more than 300 people expected at the Infantry Training Centre to take part on a charity challenge. Up to 70 teams have signed up for Marie Curie Cancer Care's Carry On Soldier
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Council worker charged
A COUNCIL employee is to face trial on a series of fraud charges. Christine Bennison, 51, of Keswick Street, Hartlepool, appeared at Teesside Crown Court yesterday and denied eight charges, including five of obtaining money by deception. Miss Bennison
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Herbert sets new record at Brighton
A NORTH Yorkshire racing driver has produced a record-breaking performance to lift the Brighton and Hove Motor Club's Kings Cup. Moulton driver Peter Herbert made his first appearance at the historic Brighton Speed Trials ten years ago, when his Westfield
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Hermione hailed heroine of hills
A GRANDMOTHER from the North-East has been saluted for her courage high in the mountains of Afghanistan. Mounted tribesmen held a buzkashi tournament - a game of skill and daring where riders chase wildly after a stuffed goat skin. The contest was held
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Visitors enjoy museum
THE Zetland Museum has had another excellent year, with many complimentary remarks entered in its Visitor Book. People from abroad were especially interested and school parties came to hear the story of The Zetland, the world's oldest lifeboat. Next year
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For once, the football wins match of the day
A GALAXY of sporting heroes were on parade at a Darlington school this week - though only one was the real thing. Youngsters at North Road primary school were joined by former England cricket captain, Ian Botham, to launch this year's national Walk to
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Alice, the face of Dainty Dinah toffee, dies at 102
THE former face of a world-famous toffee manufacturer has died at the age of 102. Alice Scott was the first model to advertise for Chester-le-Street confectioners Dainty Dinah more than 80 years ago. Her face adorned dozens of posters all over the region
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Heritage celebrated
A SERIES of events celebrating the heritage of the Loftus area takes place next weekend. The events, on Saturday and Sunday, October 13 and 14, centre around Loftus Town Hall and will include displays of photographs, old documents and other interesting
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Angling News
Newman Scott Blue only had to turn up to collect the title during the final round of the Drennan Super League Northern Division staged on Sessay's Alders and Poplars Lakes, writes JEFF HERBERT. Surprisingly they slipped to fourth on the day, the first
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Scales of justice are tipped in fishmonger's favour
A FISHMONGER is celebrating after a wrangle over whether or not he should be allowed to trade at a farmers' market was resolved in his favour. Mr Jim Hebden, of Whitby, first set up his Fruits of the Sea fish stall at Barnard Castle farmers' market in
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New HQ is vote of confidence in market town
FOLLOWING a period of sustained growth, UK computer telephony software developer, TeleWare, officially opened its doors at a new £4m purpose-built headquarters in Thirsk last week. The company has moved its 85 head office employees from Station Road business
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Computer chaos hits desperate farmers
THE system of licensing autumn animal movements was in chaos in the North-East last night, leaving hundreds of angry farmers in the dark. Officials at Durham County Council admitted that computer software loaned by the Department for the Environment,
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Basketball News
Durham League - Nissan opened their Durham League division one account this week, but not in the way they would have hoped. A home game against Norton A gave them the chance of a positive start, but they ended up overdrawn as the visitors left with 88
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Mercy trial GP's story from the grave
A BOOK written by controversial North-East GP Dr Dave Moor and published a year after his death details the harrowing moral dilemma he faced. The paperback - Allowing Dignity in Death - charts the controversial euthanasia trial and its traumatic effect
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Appeal for volunteers for youth panel
VOLUNTEERS are needed to serve on Stockton's Youth Offending panel. From April next year, a government initiative will be introduced to deal with all young offenders, aged between ten and 17, who plead guilty and are convicted for the first time at a
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Jigsaw looks for more pieces
MORE than 100 acres of new broadleaf tree cover is to take root in the region in a bid to knit together precious fragments of native woodland. The Forestry Commission has announced the winning schemes in the first round of its Jigsaw challenge fund, with
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Now you can walk with the dinosaurs
AN exhibition focusing on an acclaimed TV series about dinosaurs is coming to the North-East. BBC TV's Walking with Dinosaurs attracted 19 million viewers in this country and has been broadcast in 45 countries. Newcastle's Hancock Museum is staging Walking
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Dogs pad out the forest way
TWO border collies called Bob and Dylan have launched a new forest trail - with their paws. The pets, each bearing half the name of the famous American singer, have been recruited to introduc the trail at Guisborough forest and walkway. Dylan and Bob's
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Chester le Street - Silence frustrates fire attack inquiry
DETECTIVES investigating a fire attack on a man in a pub toilet are appealing for witnesses to come forward after meeting 'a wall of silence.' Barry McCann, 36, from Chester-le-Street, was doused with a flammable liquid and set alight in the toilet at
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Wear Valley - Teen mums in spotlight
A YOUTH drama group is tackling teenage pregnancy with the launch of a theatre production. Students at King James I Community College were shocked to discover they lived in one of the worst areas for teenage pregnancies. With the help of a £6,000 grant
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North Yorkshire - County tackles waste mountain
A MAJOR new initiative has been launched in an effort to reduce the amount of household rubbish produced across North Yorkshire. To meet national and European targets, the county must reduce landfill and double the amount of refuse that is recycled over
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Police dates booked
LIBRARY books are to be given undercover protection. It's not that the sight of sizzling best sellers and who dunnits could turn bookworms to crime. But Cleveland Police see hitching a ride with the mobile library as just the ticket for meeting people
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Murderer loses court battle to visit former haunts
A convicted murderer today lost his High Court battle to overturn a ban which prevents him returning to many of his old haunts and watching his favourite football team play at home. A judge said "a democratic society" had the legal right to impose such
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Letters: Horse insurance
Sir, - As responsible horse owners, and riders, we can fully understand Ms Gail Saunders' feelings (D&S letters, Sept 28) after having damage caused to her car and there being no-one prepared to do the honorable thing and ensure the costs were covered
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Table Tennis News
DARLINGTON'S talented juniors began the new season in style at the first of the English Junior Select tournaments held last weekend in Harlow. Surely England selectors will be turning their heads North after the performance of David Meads. He lost out
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Joseph up with the best in Europe
Thirsk schoolboy Joseph Rafferty is the tops - at cycling, swimming and running. The young athlete this week, has just represented Great Britain at the European Championships in Poland in the relatively new sport of triathlon. It is the newest
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Police watchdog demands action
A POLICE watchdog has officially asked the Government to tighten the rules on speeding after a senior officer escaped a ticket. Cleveland Police Authority is urging Westminster to make it a legal requirement that vehicle owners tell police officers who
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Darlington - Hospitals hold job shops
PEOPLE wanting a career in the health service are invited to meet the professionals. A series of Job Shops have been set up by the six NHS Trusts in Durham and Teesside. The shops are being held today in hospitals and NHS Trusts nationally and anyone
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Letters: Beck mystery
Sir, - I am researching the history of the Bedale and Thirsk navigation schemes of 1767. The intention was to make Bedale beck navigable to the Swale at Morton-on-Swale and Cod Back navigable to the Swale at Topcliffe. A certain amount of work was carried
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Report cites good efforts
PRIMARY school pupils and teachers are celebrating after receiving a good Ofsted report. The report on Normanby Primary School said: "This is a good school. Teaching is good, pupils make good progress, and the headteacher provides strong and effective
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The Wearside League
AFTER winning three of their last four games and conceding just one goal, Wolviston firmly believe that their form has finally turned the corner. The Teessiders, who finished third behind champions Nissan and runners-up North Shields last year, took just
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Knitters revisited, 50 years after the first book
AT the age of 95, Askrigg writer Marie Hartley maintains her lifelong love of writing books. Published this month is the sixth edition of a book - a revised version of The Old Hand-knitters of the Dales, which was originally published in 1951 by The Dalesman
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Cheap fuel for elderly
PENSIONERS are being given the chance to take part in a scheme that could save their lives. Last year, 30,000 elderly people in the UK died from illnesses related to the cold. To try to combat this problem, a scheme has been arranged to offer cheap electricity
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Recreation plan for Stone Cross
PLANS have been drawn up to develop recreational land at Stone Cross in Northallerton. District councillors are looking to balance the needs of sport and recreational users with those of dog owners and walkers on the land behind Hambleton leisure centre
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Through the eyes of mum
For ten years she's put up with the one-sided accounts of family life seen through the eyes of her husband. So, for one week only, Dad At Large is commandeered by HEATHER BARRON to reflect on a momentous time in her life - her last baby starting school
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Pledge to fight heart disease
HEALTH chiefs have reaffirmed their commitment to fight heart disease in County Durham, which still kills an above average number of people in the area. County Durham and Darlington Health Authority has just published its Health Improvement Programme
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Pledge to fight heart disease
HEALTH chiefs have reaffirmed their commitment to fight heart disease in County Durham, which still kills an above average number of people in the area. County Durham and Darlington Health Authority has just published its Health Improvement Programme
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Letters: Talk to us
Sir, - I was pleased to hear that the Hambleton District Council has finally, after lengthy deliberation, decided to have the Northallerton community centre revamped at a cost of £400,000. When decisions are made as to what constitutes priorities, I hope
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Darlington - Botham backs school walk
FORMER England cricket captain Ian Botham is encouraging children across Darlington to take part in Walk to School Week. The sports star, who is famous for his sponsored walks, was asked to help encourage youngsters and parents to leave the car behind
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Woman who was driven by a passion for life in the fast lane
FAST cars are an unusual obsession for a 70-year-old grandmother. But Mrs Marjorie Wainwright - who only learnt to drive at the age of 41 - adores racing and rally cars. A late starter to the driving seat, she never entertained thoughts of sedate shopping
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Rugby stars pass on skills to college kids
A RUGBY team has adopted a Darlington college which only started playing the game three years ago. The Newcastle Falcons have decided to take an interest in Carmel RC Technology College and its young rugby players. As part of the fostering scheme, James
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Farm to diversify into water sports
A FARM has been given permission to diversify into the water sports business, despite reservations expressed by the county council. The authority claimed the project contravened its policies on development in the countryside. It was worried the scheme
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Landlord plans court appeal
A LANDLORD has vowed to challenge a High Court judgement made against him for not having permission to play music in his pub. Chris Ball, from The Outback pub, in Bishop Auckland, says he is considering lodging an appeal against a ruling made on Wednesday
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Education chiefs praise pupils for exams success
EDUCATION chiefs are celebrating another "milestone year'' in the performance of school pupils. There were dramatic improvements in all age groups across County Durham in last year's key stage tests and exams. And this year, the trend has continued with
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Motor racing enthusiast, winter sportsman, and now custodian of Richmond's heritage
CUSTODIANS of an important part of Richmond's history is how Mr Keith Schellenberg and his wife, Jilly, see their role following their purchase of one of the finest country houses in the area. Although they plan to create a cosy family home at St Nicholas
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Frankly, it's the only way to shop
THIS is shopping, but not as we know it. I am sitting in a comfy chair, drinking a coffee and reading a magazine. Gosh, life is hard. Meanwhile, Ann Watson is scouring the racks of Debenhams for clothes for me. Welcome to the world of Personal Shoppers
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Walking tall: the pupil who aims for a top career
SCHOOLGIRL Holly Avery is hoping her remarkable stature will help her career choice to reach great heights. Holly, 15, is 6ft 4in tall, which means she towers above her classmates - and teachers - at Hurworth Comprehensive School, near Darlington. And
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Badminton News
THE Durham Restricted Tournament sponsored by Yahlex of Gateshead took place at the Gateshead International Stadium. There were 43 players taking part in the five events and some of the County juniors were on view, however it was sad to see some of the
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Building his dream
WHERE others dream of building their own home, forestry contractor Mr Jonathan Walker dreamed of building a log cabin - so he travelled to Norway to learn how to build one. Now Mr Walker, of Kirkby Malzeard, knows how it's done he hopes to continue his
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The power of that ear pain
THE less she says and the more little snippets of information we glean about her, the more fascinating Cherie Blair becomes. Ever since her hair blew back in the wind to reveal an acupuncture ear pin, designed to boost energy and help the wearer stay
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Pony dates
Bedale Hunt. - Variety show at Masham town hall. Rescheduled dates Oct 30 and 31, and Nov 2 and 3. Tickets £10 include supper. For details ring Anne White on 01325 378259. BHS Cleveland. - Oct 10: Annual meeting at Coulby Farm, 7.30pm. BHS Durham. - Oct
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An artist out in all weathers
A MAJOR retrospective of the Cleveland artist, Len Tabner, is to be shown at the North Light gallery in Huddersfield. After Japan follows his visit to the Haku-San mountains and continues the artist's exploration of man's connection with and love of the
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Villagers put heads together to delve into history
A CENTURY of village life has been captured in a millennium project that united a whole community. An idea to preserve precious memories snowballed into a scheme which has led to publication of a new book on the hamlet of Hilton. On Sunday, Hilton: Past
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£500,000 is invested to revamp hotel
THE refurbishment of a Darlington hotel is under way. Warwickshire Hotels Limited, which took over the Best Western White Horse just over a year ago, has invested £500,000 in the refurbishment at the 40-bedroom hotel and restaurant. Sandy McMillan, general
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Chairman in rallying call
THE future of Tees Valley depends on producing the entrepreneurs needed to move away from a culture of dependency on a few well-established businesses. That was the message from Alistair Arkley, chairman of the Tees Valley Partnership, when he spoke at
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Well groomed for brush company
STAFF at a Tyneside manufacturing company are brushing up on their skills with the help of the North-East Chamber of Commerce. Seven employees from the Team Valley Brush Company have achieved NVQs in Performing Manufacturing Operations (level two) after
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The 'kind' crash driver who dumped 11-year-old victim
A DRIVER who knocked down an 11-year-old boy left the youngster dazed and concussed in a nearby street after promising the child's friends he was taking him to hospital. Martin Thompson, who suffered a fractured skull, cuts and bruises, was found staggering
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Mon dieu, a jolie slice of French life
Film distributors are hoping British audiences will embrace an elfin-like woman who has already won the heart of a French President and millions of cinemagoers across the Channel. The movie hit Amelie opens here today, backed by a reported £600,000 publicity
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'Guardian angel's' wings get clipped
A MOTORIST likened to a prostitute's 'guardian angel', was convicted of kerb crawling yesterday. Security guard Alan Raine, 42, from Eldon, near Bishop Auckland, was found guilty after being caught on Middlesbrough town centre's closed-circuit television
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Animal rights activist back in court over land trespass
ANIMAL rights activist John Gill yesterday received his 16th conviction since he began his one-man campaign against snares and hunting. It was one of his own videos which helped convict the self-styled "wildlife warrior" at Consett magistrates' court.
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Go-ahead for weapons testing
Ministers have given provisional approval for the Army to test a controversial new weapons system in the North-East. The decision will allow the Ministry of Defence to develop the Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland for two pieces of military hardware
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Buses to carry health
BUSES will be used to drive home the message that mental health problems can affect anyone. Throughout October, buses in Redcar and Cleveland will take part in the Department of Health's national campaign, MindOut for Mental Health. They will carry posters
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Squash News
Hambleton Ales North Yorkshire League - TOP of the table Bedale have maintained a whirlwind start to their First Division campaign. A 3-0 win over champions Harrogate Squash has been followed with a 2-1 success against Ripon. It gives the Bedale side
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Dales firms comes to the aid of farmers
A HAWES-based business has stepped in to ensure a project aimed at helping farmers through the foot-and-mouth crisis will continue. Hilco Europe, an international optical company, has provided funding to enable the upper Wensleydale community partnership's
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New bid for late opening rejected
AN application for a night spot to stay open later has been rejected. Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's special licensing committee spent four hours this week deliberating on whether The Lodge, at Liverton Mines, near Loftus, should be allowed to
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Pool campaign group meeting
A CAMPAIGN to build a new swimming pool in Redcar will take an important step forward this weekend. Parents, politicians and enthusiasts have formed Get Redcar A Swimming Pool (Grasp) in an attempt to push the plan forward. The group will hold its inaugural
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Hear All Sides
Letters from The Northern Echo IDENTITY CARDS WHAT is all the fuss over the idea of a national identity card system. We all carried one during the 1939-45 war years for security reasons. The latest terrorist outrages in America will have given most people
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Art boost for business forum
A GRAPHIC artist is holding her first exhibition in a pizza restaurant, which is about to double as a women's business centre. Jane Connolly, 22, is creating a number of works of art to be displayed in Pizza Express, in High Row, Darlington, next week
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Tragic family back charity fundraiser
A FAMILY which suffered a cruel double blow in less than a year has joined the local community in helping to raise charity cash. It has been a tragic nine months for the Readshaw family, from Ferryhill, who discovered in January that eight-year-old daughter
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£334,000 aid for tourism
A £334,322 package of investment to encourage tourism in Ripon has been agreed. A Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) grant of £35,000 was approved to create and distribute marketing material to promote the city's attractions. Once there, visitors will be
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Residents suffer fireworks misery
HOOLIGANS letting off fireworks are making life a misery for residents of Dormanstown. A range of fireworks - including professional display creations - are exploding into the skies near the Dewhirst factory, off the Trunk Road. Local people say it is
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'Air rage' tourist loses appeal against jail term
A holiday-maker who threatened to open the doors of a packed aeroplane at 30,000ft today had his one-year jail sentence upheld. David McCallum, 29, was flying from Newcastle to Tenerife in November 1999 when he had a violent row with his cousin, London's
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Funeral of retired priest to take place
A RETIRED priest has died at the age of 88. Roman Catholic Father Charles Toner from Redcar was a dedicated priest who was conscientious about his ministry, including his delivery of sermons. He served as a priest at Middlesbrough, where he was also made
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Richmond girl ready to swim for Britain
A PROMISING young swimmer from Richmond has received her first call-up for international action. Joanne Jackson, the 15-year-old younger sister of Olympian Nicola Jackson, has been selected for the Great Britain junior team to compete in Italy in a three
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Firm ready to step into old shoe factory
AN old shoe factory in Leyburn is to be given a new lease of life as a carpet warehouse. The district council's policies normally dictate that new retail ventures should be encouraged in town centres. However, Ravane claimed there were no other suitable
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Police seek army man
POLICE investigating the death of a former teacher want to speak to a soldier. The body of 44-year-old mother-of-four Debra McNicholas was discovered on Redcar beach, near the children's play area and paddling pool, more than a fortnight ago. A post mortem
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Sex offender psychiatrist fails to clear his name
A consultant psychiatrist who was placed on the sex offenders' register despite being found unfit to stand trial on rape and indecent assault charges failed today in an Appeal Court bid to clear his name. William Kerr, 75, suffers from a brain-wasting
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Filipino web designer finds she has clicked with east cleveland
A YOUNG Filipino woman has brought her Internet skills to Redcar as part of an international exchange. Christina Alejandro, 32, lives in Manila, where she works as a web and product designer for a family-run card and gift business. Now, she has brought
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Taliban trial torment for Yvonne's parents
THE distraught parents of captured journalist Yvonne Ridley last night described their mounting fears for her safety after the revelation that she is to be put on trial by the Taliban. Allan and Joyce Ridley were anxiously waiting for more news after
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Police to seek more sponsors
NORTH Yorkshire Police wants to boost its spending power by securing more sponsorship. North Yorkshire is allowed by the Government to raise £850,000 a year in sponsorship, which would be one per cent of its income. However, a review has revealed that
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Bus owner takes issue with 'scruffy vehicle' jibes
THE owner of an East Cleveland bus firm has hit back at criticisms about the state of its vehicles. Abbey Coaches boss, Mr Fred Wren, denied his firm operated buses bearing a Northumbria logo - one of the complaints - and took issue with the vehicles
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Pool News
Bishop Auckland League - Bishop Auckland King's Head inflicted a rare defeat on the visiting leaders, Crook Olde Horse Shoe when they edged through to an odd point success. The King's had two singles points from Malcolm Parry, Warren Stamp and John Searle
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Chester le Street - Youth rugby programme is alive and kicking
ORGANISERS say youth rugby is now beginning to flourish in Chester-le-Street after a five year programme was launched 12 months ago. The Active Sports Rugby Union programme aims to help youngsters, aged between 11 and 15, take part in the game at their
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The UniBond League
Bishop Auckland boss Tony Lee was full of praise for on-loan midfielder Kevin Bromley after Bishops' 1-1 draw with Blyth on Tuesday night. "Kevin gave us some width which we've been missing in recent games," said Lee. "As the game went on, he came more
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Durham - Exhibition offers help to carers
AN exhibition for County Durham carers will be opened by TV agony aunt and writer Denise Robertson. The event is being staged by Durham County Council at County Hall, Durham City, next Thursday from 10am to 4pm. It will feature displays, presentations
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Spiteful graffiti in book of condolence
Vandals have defaced a book of condolence for the victims of the American terror attacks. Civic chiefs in Newcastle upon Tyne were stunned when they saw the message in the city's condolence book. The message, copied out neatly, said: "It was a long time
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Editor dad gives talk
Peter Barron, the editor of The Northern Echo and The Clarion, gave a talk to the Inner Wheel Club of Saltburn as part of the club's 55th birthday celebrations. Saltburn-born Mr Barron gave a talk based on his Dad At Large column. The group also collected
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Outraged Thirsk slams the door on Gerry Adams
THE planned visit to Thirsk of Sinn Fein president Mr Gerry Adams has been cancelled following hostile reaction from local dignitaries and residents. Mr Adams had been invited to give a lecture in Thirsk town hall next Friday by the Joan Maynard memorial
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Impressive showing by Johnston's juveniles
LEGAL Approach earned a quote of 25-1 for next year's 2000 Guineas after a smooth win on Sunday at the Ascot Festival of Racing. Mark Johnston has perhaps his best-ever team of two-year-olds and Darryll Holland brought this one late on the scene to take
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Tinkler back for Rushden
MARK Tinkler yesterday gave Hartlepool United an unexpected boost when he declared himself fit for tonight's trip to Rushden and Diamonds. Pool make their first visit to Nene Park and were expected to be without the former Leeds and York midfielder after
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Quakers shut out in Feethams stalemate
A SEARCHING examination of Darlington's promotion credentials is sure to be provided by tonight's trip to Luton Town. The Hatters, currently lying third in Nationwide League division three and unbeaten at home, are one of the favourites to make a quick
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North Yorkshire - Flying grandad takes it easier
PREPARING to take life a little easier - when he's not hanging in mid-air - is 64-year-old granddad Percy Moss. After a career which has taken him all over the world, he's decided to retire. For the last 14 years he has been transport manager for North
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Belief in the frog's divine status
IT IS difficult to believe that the humble and lowly frog could be an object of religious veneration, but this was the situation in the very early days of Ancient Egypt. For the people of the time, the frog was regarded as a sacred object and it seems
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A River of certain returns at Newmarket
PROVIDED Scottish River (2.55) is in full flow he'll be a hard horse to beat in the Group 3 Somerville Tattersall Stakes at Newmarket. Earlier on in the year Mark Johnston's colt looked as if he was something special when running away with a maiden at
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Students logged on to porn site
FOUR schoolboys have been barred from using the Internet after they logged on to a porn site during a science lesson. Hugh Porter, headteacher at Joseph Rowntree School, in New Earswick, York, said all pupils had been warned action would be taken if the
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Plan to get tough on school gate parking chaos
PARENTS who cause parking chaos outside Cleveland schools could face heavy financial penalties. A scheme to control the problem was discussed by Redcar and Cleveland council executive on Tuesday which heard it was planned to raise the standard fine to
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Making the future bright for carers
YOUNG carers have received a cash boost thanks to call centre staff. Workers at phone company Orange's complex, in Peterlee, County Durham, held a beach party fun day which raised £1,600 for Easington Young Carers. The event had a Hawaiian theme and staff
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Wear Valley - Life-saving policeman honoured
A QUICK-thinking policeman who saved a woman's life has been praised by a first aid group. Dog-handler PC Daryl Edmunds, 31, is to be presented with a St John Ambulance award after he dragged a woman from her car after she had taken an overdose and got
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Safe cycling pushed
YOUNGSTERS have become the first in the country to receive free cycle helmets thanks to a pioneering project. Funding from the Teesside Health Action Zone allowed Mike Hall, road safety officer for Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, to hand out the
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Health investment
THE powers that be in Northallerton and Darlington, and no doubt in many other communities, are grappling with the problem of providing the facilities and space for young people to let off steam. The search for a skatepark site continues in the North
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Darts News
Tow Law Bass - Esh Stag's Head, the leaders, went down to their first defeat of the season when the visiting Tow Law New Market A came through to win by three points. After the trebles were shared the visitors had singles wins from Darren Yeoman, Bob
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Dominoes News
Tow Law and District League - Tow Law New Market B had their lead cut to just one point when they went down by the odd point to the visiting Tow Law Cattle Mart. The Mart cruised into a three points lead with wins from Alan Ogilvie, Mark Williams and
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Poignant tribute on day devoted to poetry
POET Kevin Cadwallender took time out from promoting his work to read to his dead brother. Kevin, of Sunderland, who is in residence at Durham County Council, was inspired to start writing by his brother John. John, of Blackhall, East Durham, who died
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Durham - Residents to fight plans for farmland
CAMPAIGNERS against a controversial extension to an industrial estate on farmland have vowed to take their fight to a public inquiry. Members at Durham County Council's planning committee have approved a £1.3m five hectare development and access road
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'Come clean' challenge to mayor campaign over leaflet
Organisers of a campaign for a "yes" vote in a referendum to decide whether Middlesbrough is to have an elected mayor, are being challenged "to come clean". The call follows the launch of a campaign leaflet featuring a photograph of ex-Middlesbrough CID
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Firemen's lift for funds
FIREfighters' efforts to raise money for victims of the US tragedies reached new heights on Saturday. As part of a national brigade appeal, members of Cleveland Fire Brigade were at the Cleveland Centre, Middlesbrough, Stockton's Castle Centre and the
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MP hopes to make splash at meeting
AN MP is hoping to report good news on a swimming pool appeal at a public meeting this weekend. Vera Baird, the MP for Redcar, will attend the meeting of Get Redcar a Swimming Pool (Grasp) being held on Saturday, from 1pm, in The Coatham Memorial Hall
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Diamonds inflict more misery on Pools
HARTLEPOOL United suffered away defeat number five as they fell to a harsh 2-1 reverse at Rushden and Diamonds on Friday evening. Despite another expert finish from the ever-willing and ever-impressive Gordon Watson, Pool's first visit to the plush surroundings
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Adamson brothers hit form in Sherwood
MIDDLEHAM brothers Stuart and John Adamson put in an impressive performance to finish tenth overall in the Premier Stages Rally held last weekend in Sherwood Forest. The pair, contesting their first event for a number of months, were up to sixth overall
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Power to the passenger as fears rise for train services
TRAIN passengers in Teesside, North Yorkshire and Darlington would be better served by a powerful passenger transport executive, like those in larger conurbations, a council leader has suggested. The proposal comes as fears have been expressed that train
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Comment from The Northern Echo - A statement for justice
THE evidence that Osama bin Laden and his Al Quaida terrorist group were responsible for the atrocities of September 11 appears incontrovertible. It has been gathered after painstaking detective work by security forces. The case set out in Parliament
