Archive
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Mean birdwatchers use widow's garden - but snub shelter fund
TIGHT-FISTED twitchers have been criticised by their peers after upsetting a fundraiser whose garden became a refuge for eye-catching birds that strayed thousands of miles from Asia. Pamela Bell wanted to share her pleasure after the thrill of discovering
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Airborne in Kenya
A DURHAM solider is working in the desert as part of the Army's effort to provide healthcare to remote Kenyan villages. Craftsman Stacy Firby, 20, a former pupil of Deerness Valley Comprehensive School, is serving as an aircraft technician with the British
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Who wants to be a millionaire?
Embattled Carlisle United owner Michael Knighton has a vociferous new ally - George Reynolds, his counterpart at Darlington. "Michael Knighton is the same as me. All he's done wrong is make money," says Reynolds. The pair met at a Football League dinner
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New pavilion opens to fanfare
ONE of the region's oldest bowling clubs celebrated a new lease of life with a fanfare of music and entertainment on Sunday. Pelton Fell Memorial Park Bowling Club now boasts some of the best bowling and tennis facilities in the country following a four-year
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Football fans have grounds for celebration
FOOTBALL fans are hoping to draw lots of visitors to a photographic exhibition celebrating the end of an era for their club. Farewell to Feethams is a project run by the Darlington Supporters' Trust to mark the end of the Darlington FC ground and the
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History book launch coincides with revamp of park
A book has been launched to coincide with the revamp of a Teesside park. Middlesbrough's Albert Park: History, Heritage and Restoration, traces the history of the Victorian "people's park" from its creation in 1866 to its recent multi-million pound makeover
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Theatre firm had troubled history
A BUSINESSMAN whose theatre management company left a trail of creditors in its wake has a history of troubled ventures. Michael Power, joint director of The Entertainment Team (Durham) Ltd, was entrusted with the running of Durham's Gala Theatre by the
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Car thieves wreck holiday hopes for poorly Kieran
THE mother of a four-year-old boy with cystic fibrosis has had her car stolen - so the family will not be able to take their annual holiday. Deborah Hadley takes her son, Kieran, and his two brothers away each year to Thorpe Park, Cleethorpes, north Lincolnshire
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Role of theatre operator defended
ONE of the arts world's leading figures has defended the troubled Gala Theatre's former management company which crashed with debts of £700,000. Anthony Field claimed the Entertainment Team Durham had done a "very good job" in running the £14m venue.
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Litfest moves to Gala
Durham Literature Festival, fast becoming established as a major national event, has a new venue this year. It will be held at the new Gala Theatre, where a variety of events will be under the same roof for the first time. The festival has gone from strength
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Sub-post office machete raider jailed for 13 years
A FORMER council leader picked up a 4ft drain rod to fend off a masked robber wielding a machete, a court heard yesterday. Eric Turner arrived at his family-run sub-post office to find two masked men threatening his wife, Enid, 56, and their daughter
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Thinking of home
A STANLEY soldier is dreaming of the green valleys of home after being stationed at Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. "Back home in Stanley is somewhat different to Stanley in the Falkland Islands," said Damon Herring, 19, of the Royal Electrical
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Your view really does matter
I was recently asked to comment on the review of the Regional Economic Strategy, originally produced three years ago by One NorthEast, the regional development agency. It sets out the state of the region's economy in terms of education, health, transport
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News in brief: Teams secure finals place
The grand final of the Square Mile Project 2002 will be held in the Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, on Wednesday, July 17. The initiative, co-ordinated by Durham Agency Against Crime, involves teenagers in environmental, crime prevention or social awareness
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Ceremony in honour of pupils' achievements
THE achievements of children at special needs schools in Darlington were being celebrated at a ceremony last night. Almost 30 pupils aged 15 and 16 from McMullen House and Higher Horizons - schools for pupils who have found it hard to settle in mainstream
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Carnival parade puts the world's endangered species on display
COMMUNITY groups are putting the final touches to their floats for a carnival next weekend. Darlington Community Carnival will host a parade through the town centre on Saturday. Eighteen groups from across the town have been creating displays on the theme
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Hitting the trail
Cyclists are invited to take part in a tourist trail on July 7, as part of Darlington Cycling Festival. Cyclists should meet at the town's Dolphin Centre between 8.30am and 9.30am. The ride costs £4 or £5.50 to get a T-shirt, and £2 for just a certificate
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£300 mountain bike stolen
A £300 mountain bike was taken from Saracen Road, in Shildon, between 10am and 11.30am on Saturday. It had been left outside a shop with its wheels chained together. Meanwhile, a silver Nokia 3330 mobile phone was stolen from a beige Ford Mondeo parked
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Nicola's second royal honour
BRAVE North-East teenager Nicola Henderson is getting ready for her second meeting with the Queen this summer. Nicola, 19, has Usher's syndrome, which left her deaf from birth and is gradually losing her eyesight. Despite her disabilities, Nicola has
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Youth bus on tour
A mobile youth club is going on tour to help keep youngsters out of trouble. The Youth Offending Service and Youth Service have joined forces to launch the Play Bus, which will tour Hartlepool for ten weeks. The bus, which is usually operated by local
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Youth centre has new leader
A FORMER Salvation Army officer has been appointed to run Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre. Darren Hook has taken on the role of senior education in the community worker. He will be responsible for adult education and the running of the youth centre, which
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Access to library at the push of a button
DISABLED people in Darlington were able to use the library's wheelchair access for the first time yesterday after months of renovations came to an end. An entrance for wheelchair users, complete with lift, has been installed, along with a package of measures
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Army field hospital team wins national honour
THE region's Territorial Army field hospital is celebrating a win in a national competition. The 201 Field Hospital, which has headquarters in Newcastle and detachments at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, and Norton, Tees-side, came top of 19 teams in
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Korean blunders just latest in long line of referee mistakes
Even FIFA president Sepp Blatter has delivered a withering attack on the officiating at this World Cup. South Korea, in particular, have benefited from a handful of dodgy decisions on their march into the semi-finals. But the World Cup's colourful history
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Driver hurt as bike hurled from bridge
POLICE have condemned vandals who threw a bicycle from a bridge on to a busy dual carriageway. Two cars crashed, injuring one of the drivers slightly, on the A64 near York early yesterday. "This was done with total disregard for the safety of passing
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Homes sought for rejected dogs
AN animal rescue centre is appealing for pet lovers to come forward and offer a home to two mastif-cross dogs. Boris and Ollie, which are about 18 months old, have been housed at Ramshaw Rescue Centre, near Bishop Auckland, for about five months. But
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Nominations sought for building awards
PEOPLE in Redcar and Cleveland are being asked to nominate their favourite local landmarks for a national heritage award. The borough council has been asked if it wants to put forward any of its landmarks or buildings for the Queen's Golden Jubilee Heritage
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Oz visitors check out car plant
DELEGATES from Down Under have sampled car building North-East-style on on a visit to Sunderland's Nissan factory. Australian government delegates were so impressed with the plant and the business that they are to recommend the region to potential investors
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Former Green Howard dies
AN ex-soldier who was wounded while serving in Northern Ireland has died at the age of 67. George Hopkins, a father of seven, of Ryefield Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, served 26 years in The Green Howards. Former colleagues will act as pall bearers
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Welcoming new breed of workplace training
THE head of the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) Tees Valley is a keen advocate of vocational training - after all, he is himself a beneficiary. Having opted to become an accountant, Miles Middleton, CBE and chairman of the Tees LSC, followed a career
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N-E speed cameras scheme may go nationwide
A CONTROVERSIAL speed camera scheme first piloted in the North-East could be installed nationwide. Richard Brunstrum, formerly an assistant chief constable of Cleveland Police, is spearheading the scheme and is now thought to be urging all police forces
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Victim critical
MOTORCYCLIST Michael Fletcher, 31, of Gildercliffe, Scarborough, is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering head injuries in a crash in the village of Nawton, on the A170 Scarborough to Thirsk road. He was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary
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News in brief: Cash boost for theatre
YORK Theatre Royal is to receive £40,000 from the Arts Council towards a £70,000 project to improve facilities at The Studio. The outstanding £30,000 will come from the theatre's reserves. Renovations will be carried out to the 100 seats in the performance
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Worker who was asked breast size wins harassment claim
A woman who sued her factory boss after he asked her breast size while ordering her a new pair of boots, has won her sexual harassment case. Factory boss Ken Moore plagued Vicky Henderson, 21, asking about her breasts and suggesting she should get pregnant
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Suddenly, it all Fitstogether
THREE North-East companies are joining forces to help other firms bring their new products to market. The Fitstogether Group is made up of Amsys Rapid Prototyping and Tooling, of Sunderland, Omega Plastics (UK) and Tooling Technologies, both of Gateshead
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Here all sides: PUBLIC TRANSPORT
I FEEL I must respond to the letter Steve Noble, managing director of Arriva North East (HAS, Jun 13). Mr Noble states: "Arriva is dedicated to delivering transport services that meet customers' needs and encourage social inclusion." Point one: In April
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John's lament given pride of place
A LAMENT for the age of steam has been given pride of place in one of the region's most prestigious buildings. Pensioner John Dobson, 79, has created a steam engine exhibit, made from real steam engine pieces, which bears the words of a poem harking back
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'Naked WI' filming begins
Filming has now started on a movie version of the story of 11 Women's Institute members who made thousands of pounds for charity when they stripped naked for a charity calendar. Helen Mirren, Julie Walters and Penelope Wilton are among the star names
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Mega pay day for Burberry chief Bravo
FASHION icon Burberry yesterday unveiled a pay package that will make boss Rose Marie Bravo one of the highest paid female executives in the City. Ms Bravo, who as chief executive has been instrumental in turning round Burberry's fortunes, has an annual
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Downed pilot calls for help on mobile
AN injured glider pilot organised his own rescue after he crash-landed - by using his mobile phone. The 32-year-old was trapped in the wreckage when he crash-landed in an isolated cornfield near Helmsley, North Yorkshire, so he promptly rang 999 for help
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Boy who fights crime on his estate
JUNIOR crimefighter Nikki Blenkinsopp won the praise of the Home Secretary yesterday after becoming Britain's youngest Neighbourhood Watch leader. Nikki, 12, has helped slash crime on the rundown estate where he lives. The youngster endures the taunts
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Golfers are driving force behind hospice appeal
GOLFERS from around the region will tee off next week in support of a hospice. The St Oswald's Hospice Jigsaw Appeal has once again chosen De Vere Slaley Hall, in Northumberland - venue for last week's Great North Open - for its charity golf day next
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Stan and Edna seek witnesses to their 1988 wedding
A COUPLE are hoping The Northern Echo's readers can reunite them with the witnesses from their wedding 14 years ago. Stan and Edna Hardy are searching for Ian and Kath Hawkings, with whom they lost contact after moving house several times. The Hawkings
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An ice little run of top prizes
A FROZEN food firm has scooped its fourth consecutive title at a national award ceremony. Richmond Frozen Confectionery, of North Yorkshire, has been presented with the prize for the best retail product by the British Frozen Food Federation. "To win the
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News in brief: Rapist told he faces jail
A man has been warned he is facing jail after admitting a charge of rape. Leslie Stone, 38, had also faced charges of false imprisonment, indecent assault, assault and making a threat to kill, relating to the same incident on March 21, last year. But,
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Why we like backing losers
British sport boasts some of the most loyal followers in the world, which is surprising given the string of poor results. As thoughts move from World Cup failure to Wimbledon success, Ian Lamming examines the psyche of the devoted fan. NO pressure Tim
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Raising funds proves entertaining
PARENTS went back to their youth to raise cash for improving special needs teaching at their local school. They organised a fundraising night for Easingwold School, featuring the rock band Exploding Buddhas. With food by Fillings, of Easingwold, and a
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Row grows over 'cowards garden'
A STAND made more than 80 years ago by 16 men locked up for refusing to fight in the trenches is proving almost as controversial today as it did during the First World War. Conscientious objectors were branded cowards and imprisoned in the keep at Richmond
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Vintage fire engines are show's stars
VINTAGE fire engines will take pride of place at a day to honour the Victorian benefactor who founded Teesside's first fire service. An open day and exhibition, to commemorate the founding of the former Stockton Fire Brigade by Thomas Whitwell, will take
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Legal bid to make police pay £4,000
Police chiefs face the threat of legal action after delays in making a £4,000 payout to a man sprayed with CS gas. David Steele was awarded the compensation, plus damages, from Northumbria Police in a court case against the force four months ago. But
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Biker killed on remote road
A MOTORCYCLIST died at the weekend after crashing into a wall on a remote dales road. Police said Richard Stothard, 37, from South Hylton, Sunderland, failed to negotiate a bend on the winding C27 road, between St John's Chapel, in Upper Weardale, and
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Toddlers' town map is launched
A NEW guide is helping to make life easier for the parents of young children in the Chester-le-Street. Durham-based Clever Clogs Publishing has produced a booklet that gives information on facilities, activities and services in the district aimed at youngsters
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Service helps to cut fly-tipping problem
improvements to a household waste removal service are boosting efforts to tackle fly-tipping in Hartlepool. Hartlepool Borough Council officials have expanded their collection service for bulky waste, reduced charges and cut waiting times. They will now
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Vehicles revved up for date in the park
A NORTH-EAST park will be reverberating to the sound of more than 400 engines this weekend as an annual vehicle rally gets into gear. More than 400 vehicle exhibitors, 40 trade stands, a fun fair and other attractions are expected to draw large crowds
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Confidence slowly returns at airports
NEW figures have revealed the far-reaching effects on North-East airports of the horrific events of September 11. The terrorist attacks led to a drop in passenger numbers at both Newcastle and Teesside, with national figures also showing a decrease, according
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Simon Gaines' sporting edge with RAF grant
AN airman from North Yorkshire's front-line fighter base will be facing one of his toughest battles yet in the summer - when he competes in the Commonwealth Games. Corporal Simon Gaines, who is based at RAF Leeming, has been selected to represent the
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Carrying on caring for the rest of their lives
What happens when former servicemen fall on hard times? There is at least one organisation they can turn to, as Nick Morrison discovers. WHEN William Kirkup started to have problems with his sight, the deterioration was swift. Within weeks of his degenerative
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Work to begin on fire-damaged arcade
PAINSTAKING redevelopment work is to begin on a fire-damaged amusement arcade before the end of the year. J Noble and Sons Amusements, in Chester-le-Street, has been derelict since February, when a blaze ripped through the building. Arsonists were blamed
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Theatre firm had troubled history
A BUSINESSMAN whose theatre management company left a trail of creditors in its wake has a history of troubled ventures. Michael Power, joint director of The Entertainment Team (Durham) Ltd, was entrusted with the running of Durham's Gala Theatre by the
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Eating Owt: Nice view, shame about the salad
IT was a pleasant summer evening, which narrows it down to last Thursday or last August. Out-of-the-waymarks led us waist high through a barley field, as in childhood. Roseberry Topping lorded a few acres away, Captain Cook monumentally nearby. A notice
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You Write: Council leader responds
SIR - The claims made by local government workers' union Unison, which is calling for strike action to support a pay claim for £1,750 or six per cent, are both inaccurate and misleading. Unison has claimed that councillors' allowances were rising fast
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Job Search: Vacancies
MORE details about the jobs below are available from Jobseeker Direct on (0845) 606 0234. Assistant cook, Stockton. 26hrs pw between 7.15am and 6pm. Experience and qualification required or basic hygiene certificate. Should be aware of COSH and health
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Magazine wins national prize
CHESTER-le Street District Council is celebrating after the magazine it produces won a national award. District News is the first winner of the Northcliffe Press Awards prize for community involvement. The magazine, which is produced four times a year
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Who wants to be a millionaire?
Embattled Carlisle United owner Michael Knighton has a vociferous new ally - George Reynolds, his counterpart at Darlington. "Michael Knighton is the same as me. All he's done wrong is make money," says Reynolds. The pair met at a Football League dinner
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Classic chassis
MOTORING enthusiasts took a journey back in time at the weekend when they steered a cavalcade of lovingly-restored cars through the North-East in an annual test of safety and reliability. The 31st Beamish Safety and Reliability Run, starting and ending
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Airshow ready to take-off
EUROPE's biggest free airshow takes off next month with another spectacular line-up. The 14th Sunderland International Airshow will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28, over the Seaburn and Roker areas of the city. Last year's event attracted
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You write: Theatre success
SIR - In a week when all the newspapers were full of gloom and doom concerning the Gala Theatre, we were able to share in the real delight of two wonderful performances held there. On Wednesday and Thursday, June 12/13, children from the Belmont Cluster
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You write: Theatre success
SIR - In a week when all the newspapers were full of gloom and doom concerning the Gala Theatre, we were able to share in the real delight of two wonderful performances held there. On Wednesday and Thursday, June 12/13, children from the Belmont Cluster
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Rector steps out to raise roof cash
A LOCAL sports teacher turned clergyman, Graham Pacey, will be hoping his old job will stand him in good stead this week as he walks more than 100 miles for charity. The Rector of Skelton with Upleatham, near Saltburn, set off for his home turf of Morecambe
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Footage of suspected arsonists released
Police yesterday released film footage of two suspected arsonists behind an £18m trail of destruction. Grainy footage from a CCTV camera has provided a major breakthrough in the hunt for those responsible for torching truck depots across Tyneside. Police
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Corporate raider eyes up target
IN the late 1980s I was lucky enough to work on the commercial property newspaper Estates Times. And I do mean lucky. The paper wasn't a dry read concerned with chronicling the minutiae of shopping centre rental incomes in Bromley or Birmingham, but rather
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Student law office expands its services
A STUDENT law office is offering students and the public more services after teaming up with the North-Eastern Barristers' Circuit. Clients of the law office at Northumbria University, in Newcastle, now have access to more than 700 barristers practising
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News in brief: Former leader honoured
GATESHEAD Borough Council's former leader has been honoured by being given the freedom of the borough. George Gill, who was a councillor for 29 years and its leader for almost 17 years, retired in May. The honorary freedom is in recognition of his work
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Store nominated for community award
A SCHEME to deliver jobs and training in an area blighted by unemployment has been nominated for a national award. Tesco has been put forward for a Business in the Community Neighbourhood Renewal Award, for its work in Dragonville, Durham. The superstore's
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Venturing into valley with vision and hopes
Brent Godfrey is a man on a mission. Business editor Jonathan Jones talks to the new chief executive of Tees Valley Tomorrow. BRENT Godfrey has an ambition to raise the profile of a particular part of the North-East. The 57-year-old from Nottingham, now
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Historic call for an interest rates rise
MORTAGE lenders made history yesterday when they called for a rise in interest rates. The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) called for the increase for the first time in its existence, as the booming housing market showed no signs of letting up. The break
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Go-ahead at last for £263m A1 upgrade
BUSINESS leaders and roads campaigners last night welcomed news that the Government is poised to upgrade a 29-mile North-East section of the A1 to three lanes. The long-awaited link, hailed as essential to the region's economic fortunes by development
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Last Night's TV: Merseybeat (BBC1); Kings And Queens (C5)
The inside story on the boys and girls in blue. BBC1 controller Lorraine Heggessey makes no secret of the fact that she'd like Merseybeat to become the police equivalent of hospital series Holby City and run virtually all year long. In other words, Merseybeat
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Eating Owt: Nice view, shame about the salad
IT was a pleasant summer evening, which narrows it down to last Thursday or last August. Out-of-the-waymarks led us waist high through a barley field, as in childhood. Roseberry Topping lorded a few acres away, Captain Cook monumentally nearby. A notice
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Carnival comes to the end of the road
A CARNIVAL dating back 27 years has been scrapped after police refused to accompany its flagship parade. For almost three decades, youngsters and adults from Coxhoe and the surrounding villages flocked to the annual Coxhoe Carnival. It has been held every
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Making enemies
WELL, at least Cherie Blair was in good company when she made that outrageous and totally untrue statement about Palestinian youths having no alternative but to mount murderous suicide attacks on Israelis. Rowan Williams, the man rumoured to be in line
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Pool contract awarded
THE deal which finally secures the completion of Stanley's £4.5m new swimming pool was put in place this week. A North-East company has won a £1.2m deal contract to install the mechanical and electrical work before the new pool opens before spring next
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Secret smoker may have caused fire
A secret smoker may have caused a fire which spread panic through a packed plane and caused an emergency landing, it emerged today. Investigators believe someone having a crafty cigarette was a likely cause of a possible fire in a waste bin which caused
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New school opens in eco-friendly building
A NEW purpose-built school that boasts its own wind turbine generator and rainwater harvesting system was officially opened on Tuesday. Energy secretary Brian Wilson presided over the ceremony at Catchgate Primary School, near Stanley, at 3pm. The £2.1m
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Welcome walk for future ramblers
Darlington Ramblers' Assocation is hoping to attract more walkers for its summer season with a welcome walk for new members. The six-mile walk, aimed at encouraging new members, will take in Aysgarth Falls in the Yorkshire Dales. The association's summer
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Library access at push of a button
DISABLED people in Darlington were able to use the library's wheelchair access for the first time yesterday after months of renovations came to an end. An entrance for wheelchair users, complete with lift, has been installed, along with a package of measures
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Junior football trials
A JUNIOR football club is holding trials to find new talent to join its squad. Shildon Juniors Football Club is looking for players for its under-ten to under-15 sides and for its under-17 team. Trials for the under-ten and under-14 teams will be held
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Three years for burglar who left house a 'bombsite'
A BURGLAR who broke into the same house twice in two days was jailed for three years yesterday. David Preston left the Darlington home like a "bombsite" after breaking in twice and left the family who lived there afraid to leave their house, Teesside
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Summer fun for families
FAMILES are invited to join in a range of workshops to be held at Darlington Art Centre during the school summer holidays. Workshops will held for children as well as adults during the six-week break. Children aged four to seven can learn about singing
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Community day funded by Lottery cash
A FOOTBALL and community day is being organised thanks to a grant from the National Lottery. Branksome Residents' Association, in Darlington, has been awarded £4,990 from the Awards for All scheme to help host the event. The residents' association is
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It's an uneasy start for legend Sampras
Pete Sampras is looking for greater consistency after overcoming injury fears and British battler Martin Lee in yesterday's first round clash. The seven-times champion was never entirely assured against Lee, who spurned an amazing 18 break points against
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MP to address meeting
DARLINGTON MP Alan Milburn will be the guest speaker at an event to discuss the effectiveness of the town's public services. The community planning public involvement event takes place at the Dolphin Centre on Friday, from 11am to 4pm. The event will
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Paedophile watch move goes nationwide
A PILOT scheme which was launched in the North-East in a bid to protect youngsters from paedophiles is about to go nationwide. Leisurewatch was set up last year to combat increasing fears about sex offenders using facilities such as sports and shopping
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Roadshow charts a successful course
IAN Watt from Matrix Internet Services was overwhelmed by the number of companies attending the Flipchart Roadshow. The inspired networking exhibition was held within the new Coleman suite in Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield on June 12. Web design company
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Ammonia attack
A NORTH-EAST shopkeeper had ammonia sprayed in his face by robbers. The raiders escaped with cash from the Blaydon Discount Store, Harriet Street, Blaydon, near Gateshead, on Saturday. The man suffered burns to his eyes but was released from hospital
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Terror raider sent to prison
A masked robber who terrified shopkeepers during armed raids was jailed foreight years yesterday. Stephen Steadman targeted small local shops. In one attack, two ten-year-olds looked on in horror. Newcastle Crown Court heard how the 30-year-old first
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Community day funded by Lottery cash
A FOOTBALL and community day is being organised thanks to a grant from the National Lottery. Branksome Residents' Association, in Darlington, has been awarded £4,990 from the Awards for All scheme to help host the event. The association is working with
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News in brief: Ahoy there, me hearties
STOCKTON'S Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership is holding a pirate fun day on Friday as part of National Childminding Month. The event will be held at Preston Park, from 10am to 2pm, and all parents and childminders are invited to attend
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Scheme allows waste disposal for businesses
A NEW scheme which allows small businesses to dispose of their waste more easily has been developed in the Catterick Garrison area. From next Monday, commercial waste will be accepted, on a trial basis, at the landfill site off Gatherley Road, where a
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Helping to make skies safer for everyone
A HEIGHTENED sense of international security after the September 11 terrorist attacks has accelerated demand for defence systems produced in the region. Joyce-Loebl's defence arm, based in Gateshead's Team Valley, has earned itself a pat on the back from
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Protect your ideas from the competition
WHEN looking to protect your business ideas the term 'Intellectual Property' is frequently used, but what does it mean and what can you do to prevent others from taking advantage of your imagination and hard work? The term usually refers to new ideas
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Murder suspect's extradition fight
A MURDER suspect has launched an appeal against attempts to extradite him from Spain to the North-East. Judges at Spain's National Criminal Court in Madrid have ordered that 36-year-old Jonathan Crossling be sent home to face trial for allegedly murdering
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Moors sheep farmer's fence idea rejected
A sheep farmer's plan to erect a half-mile long fence on moorland was turned down by a single vote yesterday. Councillor Helen Schroeder, chairman of the National Park Authority, backed officers who opposed the move by Brian Aconley for a fence from Esklets
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Comment: The right way ahead, so far
AT long last, a 29-mile section of the A1 through North Yorkshire is to be turned into a three-lane motorway. That it has taken so long for such a vital route through our region to be upgraded is nothing short of scandalous. After years of lobbying by
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Survey shows need for young churchgoers
Churchgoers in the Ripon and Leeds Diocese believe their churches need to attract more young people. In a survey 85 per cent either strongly agreed or agreed on the issue of attracting more youngsters. The survey covered more than 400 people in 40 parishes
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Canadian farmer Jessica mucks in to make an impression
YOUNG Canadian farmer Jessica Francis has been getting her hands dirty and mucking in alongside a dales farming family. The 21-year-old has spent two weeks helping out on West End Farm, in Hunderthwaite, County Durham, alongside beef farmer Robbie Dalton
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Girl, 18, behind bars 'due to addiction'
A TEENAGE girl from a respectable family went off the rails when a drug addiction took hold, a court heard. Claire Duffy resorted to breaking into the home of a neighbour on Christmas Day in order to fund her heroin habit. Durham Crown Court heard that
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Expert links death to heroin injection
A PATHOLOGIST believes a man found dead near the home of an alleged drug dealer probably died from a heroin overdose. Home Office pathologist Dr Nigel Cooper said samples taken from the body of Desmond "Dessie" Johns revealed a high level of morphine,
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Hopes raised for Arc's comeback
PLANS to reopen a showpiece North-East arts complex have received a Government boost. Arts Minister Kim Howells has confirmed that the Stockton Arc could receive extra Arts Council funding. He announced more than £25m of backing for regional theatres
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Look cool for charity
THE Guide Dogs for the Blind Association hopes to put other fundraising events in the shade next month. The charity will hold its second Shades for a Day campaign on Tuesday, July 16. It hopes more than half a million people will raise sponsorship for
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Miniature marvels that collectors would die-cast for
A MINIATURE motorcade will be wheeled out for bargain hunters when 400 transport treasures come under the hammer in a North-East auction room this week. The prized collection has already generated huge interest among enthusiasts who have been contacting
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Families hoping for new clues to sinking
Relatives of a trawler crew lost in a disaster 28 years ago said yesterday they hoped the latest bid to shed light on the mystery would finally allow them to grieve for their loved ones. The Hull-registered Gaul went down about 70 miles off Norway in
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Ordination date for eight curates
CLERGY numbers in the dioceses of Ripon and Leeds will be boosted next weekend with the ordination of eight curates. Six men and two women from backgrounds including nursing, business management and the Crown Prosecution Service will be made curates at
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Men and women of the land make a high-flying visit to air base
MEMBERS of one of the oldest agricultural societies in the country took a day off from the land to meet the men who roam the skies. A group from Boroughbridge Agricultural Society spent a day at RAF Leeming, near Bedale, where they were welcomed by station
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Drive gives a boost to rugby hopefuls
YOUNGSTERS in Northallerton have been given a big boost in their rugby hopes by local Ford dealer CD Bramall. Branch manager Merv Salway and Chris Whincup, chairman of youth rugby at Northallerton RFC, handed over a free Ford Tag Rugby pack containing
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Sharon Griffiths meets...
Cross her palm with silver and she'll tell you what the future holds for you. ON THE west side of Whitby harbour, near the fish market, next to the whelk stall, is the cabin of Lee Ester Alita Lee, fortune teller, clairvoyant and medium. Inside, the cabin
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Fundraising pupils pitch in to make sunflower chains
SCORES of children proved that they were the sunniest on Teesside yesterday when they were transformed into a gigantic yellow sunflower chain. The youngsters, from 12 local primary schools, have been selling chocolate sunflower sweets as part of a campaign
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Ex-crime panel boss is spared jail
A TAXI operator and former crime prevention chairman narrowly escaped a prison sentence yesterday for selling bogus insurance to drivers. Peter MacGregor, 64, devised do-it-yourself insurance documents on his home computer and sold them to four fellow
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Youngsters leaping up and down for more fun in the playground
EARLY learning youngsters have helped to raise money for play equipment. Nursery and reception school pupils at St Wilfrid's RC Primary School, Bishop Auckland, launched a fundraising campaign to buy a climbing frame. The equipment, which could cost £6,000
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Future of famous hall in balance
THE fate of one of the region's most notable buildings will be decided at a meeting this week. The 1903 Frank Matcham-designed Royal Hall, Harrogate, a building with a Grade II listing for its architecture and history, has become a victim of sulphate
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Watchdogs' alert over car boot sales
CONSUMER watchdogs are warning people to be extra vigilant when they buy anything at car boot sales. The warning comes from Hartlepool Borough Council's trading standards department after a resident paid £70 by Visa credit card for garden furniture she
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Woman becomes classic driver champ
A woman driver has beaten her husband and son to become the first female winner of a motoring test for vintage and classic cars. Organisers of the 31st Beamish Safety and Reliability Run have tallied up the points and declared Darlington's Eileen Bruce
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Youth club is forced to close after second flooding disaster
A YOUTH club that only recently re-opened after being damaged during serious flooding has had to be shut down again - after a second disastrous deluge. Northallerton Youth Centre - formerly known as the T-Zone - had to close after the great floods of
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School receives top marks in inspection
A WASHINGTON school has earned top marks from the schools standards watchdog Ofsted. St John Boste RC Primary School, in Oxclose village, was described as "excellent" by the team of inspectors who visited. That rating ranks it among the top five per cent
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Magpies midfielder McClen unfazed by expensive arrivals
GEORDIE midfielder Jamie McClen has confirmed his determination to meet the challenge of Hugo Viana and Jermaine Jenas by signing a new three-year contract with Newcastle United. The home-grown McClen, whose days at St. James' Park looked to be numbered
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Government confirms funds for A1 upgrade
The Government today announced a £263 million project to upgrade 29 miles of the A1 in the north of England to a three-lane motorway. The existing dual carriageway sections to be upgraded are Bramham, West Yorkshire to Wetherby, Dishforth to Leeming,
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Good start for Henman
British number one Tim Henman has began his quest for a first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon with a straight sets win over France's Jean-Francois Bachelot. It took just over 90 minutes for the British number one to see off qualifier Bachelot, winning 6
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Lorry stuck under 'wrongly marked' rail bridge
A LORRY became wedged under a "wrongly marked" railway bridge yesterday - only three weeks after The Northern Echo raised concerns about its safety. The East Coast mainline was closed while the flat-back HGV was removed.. Services from Edinburgh to London
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Gerry aims to improve links in Tees Valley
BUSINESS Link Tees Valley has strengthened its relationship with public and private sector organisations with the appointment of a Partnership Manager. The first man to fill the role for the Middlesbrough-based organisation is 58-year-old Gerry Hayter
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Parishes split over code of conduct
A MORAL row has broken out between parish councillors over new Government legislation on their code of conduct. Parish councillors across the region are split over the Government's push to bring in a code of practice to make parish council members more
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Colour Sergeant sure to earn his stripes
SEEKING out good value has always been one of the major aims of this column and an outsider with a major chance of knocking the bookies for six at Beverley today is Colour Sergeant (3.45). Kim Tinkler's mount will likely start at odds of 14-1 or better
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Couple take to farming, at 48
A TEESSIDE couple have opted for the good life - at the age of 48. Mike and Rita Corrigan have always talked about moving to the countryside and making a living from the land. Now, at a time when many farmers are leaving the industry following the foot-and
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Job Search: Vacancies
MORE details about the jobs below are available from Jobseeker Direct on (0845) 606 0234. Waiting staff, Piercebridge, 16hrs pw plus, age 18 plus, experience preferred but not essential. Ref: BAJ 4444. Cook, Barnard Castle, 37.5hrs pw, required to prepare
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Councils face recycling directive
Local authorities, currently getting to grips with a fridge mountain caused by European recycling directives, are now facing the prospect of dealing with stockpiles of unwanted televisions, toasters and vacuum cleaners. A new European directive will mean
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Ballack strike takes Germany through
South Korea's World Cup adventure has came to an end after they were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Germany in Seoul. Michael Ballack's 75th minute goal was enough to take Rudi Voller's side into their seventh World Cup final appearance although a yellow card
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Formal complaints lodged over care home closure plan
FAMILIES of elderly residents who are facing a move from their nursing home, which is due to be closed and demolished, have made a formal complaint to Durham County Council. Relatives of residents of Stoneleigh nursing home, in Barnard Castle, have vowed
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Job Search: Vacancies
MORE details about the jobs below are available from Jobseeker Direct on (0845) 606 0234. Assistant chef, Northallerton. £10,000 to £12,000pa, 45hrs pw, 5 days out of 7. Required for new restaurant opening mid-July. Experience essential, some training
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Out to win the World Cup
AS one World Cup nears an end, another is being planned. If the 2010 tournament should go to Africa, and South Africa in particular, a Tyneside businessman will probably have played a part in securing it. Tim Cantle-Jones, 41, principal of Polar Productions
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Litfest moves to Gala
Durham Literature Festival, fast becoming established as a major national event, has a new venue this year. It will be held at the new Gala Theatre, where a variety of events will be under the same roof for the first time. The festival has gone from strength
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Job Search: Vacancies
MORE details about the jobs below are available from Jobseeker Direct on (0845) 606 0234. Office cleaner, Seaham. £4.10ph, 9am to 12pm, Mon, Wed and Fri. Experience preferred but not essential as training provided. Ref: SEH 4955. PCV driver, Murton/national
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Organisers must stop Slaley slide
The sign outside the Slaley Hall clubhouse harked back to more successful times; days when European golf's big names were lured to the Northumberland course. "Seve, Retief, Bernhard, Colin, Lee, Darren and Justin have all played it," the placard proclaimed
