Archive
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Chopper chases naked man
POLICE yesterday scrambled their helicopter to help in the search of a naked man who was seen walking along a public footpath - but the strolling streaker eluded all efforts to find him. The hunt was mounted around Stanley in County Durham after a passerby
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'We must be bolder'
THE Prime Minister signalled the need for a faster transformation of public services such as health and education yesterday by telling the Labour Party conference: We must be bolder. In what commentators described as a "watershed speech", Tony Blair set
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Fired-up Robandela to shoulder burden at Newmarket
HARD-AS-NAILS handicapper Robandela (1.45) is fancied to complete a quick-fire double at Newmarket this afternoon just 48 hours after hitting the bullseye at Hamilton on Monday. Robandela, who won no less than seven races last season, has not been able
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Gadget could solve health menace
A GADGET called Virulite invented by two North-East doctors could be the answer to a growing public health menace, it was claimed last night. The virus which causes the common cold sore is relatively harmless as long as it is confined to the mouth. But
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Darlington - Church celebrates centenary
A FLOWER and craft festival this weekend marks the conclusion to a year of celebrations for a Darlington church. For the past 12 months Eastbourne Methodist Church on Yarm Road has been celebrating a dual anniversary - that of the centenary of the opening
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Blair signals way forward with foundation hospitals
TONY BLAIR yesterday signalled that foundation hospitals are going to be the way ahead for the National Health Service. The hospitals are the big idea of Health Secretary and Darlington MP Alan Milburn, who last night at the conference took part in a
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School cycle plan given funding
Transport chiefs have announced a major boost for a campaign to encourage youngsters to cycle to school. Eastbourne Comprehensive School, in Darlington, has secured £33,000 from the Government's Cycle Projects Fund - the largest grant of its kind awarded
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Motoring chaos fear over gritting cutback
MOTORISTS are being warned to take extra care this winter amid fears that cutbacks in road gritting could cause travel chaos. Durham County Council is cutting £400,000 from the seasonal road budget, which means fewer roads and footpaths will be salted
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Heartbeat car in real-life tragedy
A VINTAGE police car, used in TV's Heartbeat series, was involved in a real-life tragedy yesterday. The light-blue Ford Anglia was being towed along the A19 in North Yorkshire when the driver of a Mitsubishi pick-up pulling the trailer lost control of
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Policeman's murder is still veiled in mystery
"LATE last night, one of the most determined and diabolic murders that has ever stained the annals of the county took place at Diamond Bank, Butterknowle," reported The Northern Echo. It was no exaggeration. On the night of February 23, 1884, Acting Sergeant
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Alan Wright set to sue BBC
An axed radio presenter is set to sue his former BBC bosses for damages. Lawyers are considering an action for damages following Alan Wright's " total and inexplicable surprise'' dismissal from BBC Radio Cleveland. The 55-year-old was told within minutes
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Darlington - Swimmer Stuart takes the title
A SWIMMER is the latest Orange Darlington Young Sportswinner. Stuart Walker, ten, a pupil at Reid Street School, has only been swimming competitively for two years. He was given the title for his involvement at county and district levels. A spokesman
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Darlington - Crews warn drivers over 999 access
FIREFIGHTERS have admitted their largest engine does not use a new road layout, designed to cut response times. But crews at Darlington have stressed that the air ladder platform appliance is not needed on all call-outs and does not need the immediate
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Pub assault victim named
The man gunned down outside a Sunderland pub has been named as James William Bannon. Police were today still waiting to speak to the 49-year-old, who was undergoing further surgery on his badly injured left thigh. Mr Bannon was the victim of a shotgun
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Students will have grades reviewed
Thousands of students are to have their grades reviewed, the head of the inquiry into this summer's A-Level exams fiasco said today. A total of 31 subjects are affected - all but seven of them involving exams set by the Oxford and Cambridge and RSA (OCR
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Black Cats purring after Abbey demolition job
AFTER scoring just three goals in eight Premiership games this season, Sunderland cut loose in the Worthington Cup last night to buy Peter Reid extra breathing space. Gavin McCann's first strike in more than 18 months, after Claudio Reyna had doused Cambridge
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Chemical company facing huge fine for toxic blaze
A CHEMICAL company responsible for a major fire which forced the evacuation of people from hundreds of homes was last night facing a huge fine for failing to ensure the safety of its workers and neighbours. Distillex, which ran the site in North Shields
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Redcar and Cleveland loses out on millions
The people of Redcar and Cleveland have lost out on up to £20m in the past ten years because the Government got its figures wrong, it was claimed yesterday. Now council leader David Walsh has called on Chancellor Gordon Brown to come to Eston Town Hall
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Family search for puppies' mother
THREE newly-born puppies are desperately missing their mother, who it is feared has been stolen. Yesterday, Joanne Cliff, of Front Street, West Auckland, made an appeal for the return of the three-year-old pet, who went missing on Monday. She said she
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Mayor views sculptures
THE Mayor of Darlington has visited art students to see them put the finishing touches to large-scale sculptures. Councillor Doris Jones pre-viewed the work of 36 art and design students at the Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College in preparation for the
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Big band will play the praises of challenge team
NORTH-EAST students are looking forward to having a leading band play for them after winning a television competition. A team from Durham University secured the prize after beating rivals from Exeter in University Challenged, a parody of University Challenge
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A real-life 'Lovejoy' hero
A GROUP of teenage boys have skipped lessons at their exclusive private school and travelled to Darlington to catch a glimpse of their idol. But surprisingly, the object of their affection is not a leggy blonde pop singer or a supermodel but rather a
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Abseil challenge
PEOPLE with a head for heights are being urged to take part in a charity abseil. The North Yorkshire and South Teesside branch of Marie Curie Cancer Care is organising a sponsored freefall abseil from the Kippax Stand at Manchester City's football ground
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Joint op surgeon tells of shortages
A NORTH-EAST consultant elected president of the British Orthopaedic Association, has spoken out about the shortages of specialists in the NHS. Darlington-born Professor Paul Gregg, an orthopaedic surgeon at South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust, said the profession
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Northern Rock has bright outlook
BANKING group Northern Rock yesterday forecast the ongoing strength of the housing boom would ensure final profits came in at the top end of expectations. Updating the City on third-quarter trading, Northern Rock said the mortgage market continued to
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Local talent displayed
A DALES auction house is doubling as a showcase for local talent, with work by 25 artists from North Yorkshire included in an exhibition at Tennants of Leyburn. Ripon Cathedral was the first to show their paintings during the city's arts festival, which
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Handing over castle keys
THE keeper of North Yorkshire's most venerated fortress is handing over the keys on the anniversary of its monarch's birth. Maureen Bush, of Northallerton, is retiring as custodian at Middleham Castle after 11 years. The 800-year-old fortress, which became
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Sharon Griffiths: The Simple way to clean up our country
WHAT a filthy lot we are. Pavements covered in dog dirt, playgrounds in broken glass, overflowing litter bins, fag ends, takeaway cartons and chewing gum everywhere. And that's before you start on public loos... A new study by ENCAMS, an environmental
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Support for school's specialist bid
A DARLINGTON school's bid for specialist status is continuing to attract support. Hurworth Comprehensive School is aiming to become a mathematics and computing college, and contributions towards the £50,000 it needs are continuing to flow in. Parent Paul
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Leek show raises £360
AN auction of produce at a village pub's leek show raised £360 for the community. Michael Gibson won the competition at the Rose and Crown pub, in Witton Park, near Bishop Auckland, at the weekend. Mr Gibson won the leek class with an entry measuring
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Two legs good but three legs better when it comes to world records
HUNDREDS of students joined ankles yesterday, for the biggest three-legged race in the world. Resembling prisoners in an exercise yard, 200 students shuffled across the lawns of Van Mildert College, in Durham, to set the first world record for the largest
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Last Night's TV: The Showbiz Set (C4)
That's the real face of entertainment Veteran comic Jimmy Tarbuck has rules for keeping his feet on the ground while some around him in show business are losing their grip. "Never believe it. It ain't fairyland and it ain't real," he says in the second
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Auction of promises
AN AUCTION of promises is being held in St Mary's Church Hall, Cockerton, Darlington, on Saturday, October 26, at 2pm. Lots available for auction including riding lessons for a family, an afternoon in Whitby with fish and chips, maths and English tuition
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Pantomime auditions call
THE Centre Stage theatre group, in Shildon, is auditioning for its pantomime, Dick Whittington, on October 9. The group's secretary Donna Timmiss said new members were being sought, and anyone interested in acting or helping with backstage organisation
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Written word and technology on the doorstep
ALMOST half a million pounds has been invested to move North Yorkshire's library service into a new technological era. Gone of the days of searching endless rows of dusty books, instead accessing information can be done at the touch of a button. Furthermore
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Scheme has key to a relaxing holiday
A SCHEME to give householders peace of mind when they are away from home was launched on Teesside yesterday. The Peace for a Pound initiative, supported by Cleveland Police, allows residents to register their details for £1 a month, so they can be contacted
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Agency wins award
A NORTH-East teacher supply agency is one of only four across the country to gain national recognition for the quality of its work. Supply Desk, in Middlesbrough, has been awarded the Quality Mark by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, on behalf
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Car clue to con trick thieves
DETECTIVES in Newton Aycliffe have issued a description of a car seen at two homes where distraction burglaries occurred yesterday. The red Rover 620, four-door saloon, registration OIJ 2476, was seen in the Elm Road area of Shildon, where thieves posing
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University students targeted in meningitis vaccine campaign
A UNIVERSITY is hoping to create a buzz with a health awareness campaign by handing out 2,000 fluffy toy bees to students. The University of Teesside and its students' union are using the bees to drive home the message that students need to be vaccinated
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Lost children remembered
A SERVICE for bereaved families who have lost children at birth or soon after will be held at Northallerton's Friarage Hospital on Saturday. The Reverend Sue Wilkins leads the ceremony in St Luke's Chapel at 2.30pm, although refreshments will be served
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Reunion for choirs
TWO of the region's most celebrated choirs hold their annual reunion this weekend. The cathedral choirs of Durham and Newcastle sing together at Evensong in Durham Cathedral on Saturday, at 5.15pm. James Lancelot, Durham's master of the choristers and
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Sacked chef took revenge
CHEF Alan Rankin smashed the windows of a restaurant where he used to work after the owner refused to pay his wages following his sacking. Harrogate magistrates heard how Rankin, 31, armed himself with six bricks and threw one through each of the ground-floor
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Centre for the community
A CENTRE hoping to overcome people's fears of computers has opened its doors. North Durham MP Kevan Jones opened the IT suite at St Andrew's Family Resource Centre, in Stanley High Street. The training room contains six Internet-linked computers. A former
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Turin pride in defeat for Bobby
Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson last night spoke of his 'tremendous pride' in defeat at the hands of Juventus at the Stadio Delle Alpi. The Magpies are still without a point or a goal in the Champions' League after three Group E games. And a double strike
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Motorists count the cost as city wheels in new toll road
A black day for motorists or a bold new beginning in the war on traffic congestion? Whatever your view, road tolls are here to stay. Mark Summers reports on Durham's pioneering experiment THE sun shone and the positive mood was not diminished when the
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Anger at lap dance club's extension bid
PLANS to extend the opening hours of a lap dancing club in Stockton have met opposition from residents. Stockton Borough Council has received an application from Angels, in Dovecot Street, to move its closing time from midnight to 1am. A letter to the
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Councils launch £700,000 scheme to extend recycling
Households are to benefit from a £700,000 scheme to boost recycling. Every home in the Wear Valley, Teesdale and Derwentside district council areas will receive a 55-litre box, which provides safe storage for products made of glass, plastic, aluminium
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Old factory site picked for family centre
THE site of a former textiles factory has been selected for a Sure Start family centre. Sedgefield Borough Council bought the derelict Praxis factory in the Dean Bank area of Ferryhill and demolished it to make way for the centre. The £584,000 centre
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'Big step' for green scheme
HOUSEHOLDS are set to benefit from a £700,000 scheme to boost recycling. Every home in the districts of Wear Valley, Teesdale and Derwentside will receive a 55-litre box, which provides safe storage and collection for products such as glass, plastic,
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French market a big success
community leaders have praised the success of a four- day French market in Darlington. Shoppers sampled French foods while children took the opportunity to brush up their language skills. Darlington Borough Council leader John Williams said: "Many of
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Detectives wait to talk to victim of shooting
POLICE were last night still waiting to speak to a man gunned down in a shotgun attack outside a pub. The man, who has not been named, was left lying in a pool of blood for 30 minutes before paramedics were allowed into the Rovers Return pub in Ward Street
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Knifeman jailed for vicious attack
A KNIFEMAN who left his victim close to death after a year long hate campaign was jailed yesterday. Christopher Davis, 22, stabbed unemployed Mark Russell in the back after a "long period of bullying and terrorising", Newcastle Crown Court heard. The
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Auction of promises
AN AUCTION of promises is being held in St Mary's Church Hall, Cockerton, Darlington, on Saturday, October 26, at 2pm. Lots available for auction including riding lessons for a family, an afternoon in Whitby with fish and chips, maths and English tuition
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Darlington - Carnival on the agenda
A PUBLIC meeting is being held at 7.30pm next Thursday at Dar*ington Arts Centre, Vane Terrace, to begin planning next year's community carnival. On the agenda will be the election of committee members, the theme for the parade and voting for the charity
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Streaking away
THE police helicopter was scrambled yesterday to help in the search of a naked man who was seen walking along a public footpath - but the strolling streaker eluded all efforts to find him. The hunt was mounted around Stanley, County Durham after a passer-by
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Villagers urged to help save community centre
VILLAGERS are being urged to turn out in force tonight to support the campaign to save a community centre from closure. People in Middleton St George were encouraged yesterday to attend a meeting in the centre, aimed at thrashing out its long-term future
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Closures will save time
CHANGES at cash collection points in the town centres of Stockton, Billingham and Thornaby will help people save time in paying their council tax and rent. Instead of queuing twice to pay money to Stockton Borough Council, customers will be able to hand
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Helping hand for young engineers
A FORMER secondary school teacher is helping youngsters to get to grips with engineering. Geoff Clack has taken over as Setpoint manager at the Engineering Employers' Federation (EEF) Northern, overseeing projects and facilities to encourage the next
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Hear All Sides: United Nations
YOUR comment (Echo, Sept 25) seemed to be inferring that if there is a problem, some other person will have to resolve it. In expecting the United Nations to find a peaceful solution you forget the Security Council requires financial support from the
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Schoolboy attack:sentence delayed
A PUBLIC schoolboy is still awaiting a possible prison sentence following an attack on a fellow student. James Slade, 18, admitted causing grievous bodily harm to Lloyd Pickering, also 18, on their final night at Durham School. The pair, who had just
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Turner to swoop
HARTLEPOOL United boss Chris Turner is closing in on a new signing. In the absence of broken leg victim Gordon Watson, who is out of action for a further six weeks, Turner is believed to lining up a move in the transfer market in the next 24 hours and
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McClaren's second-string prove too strong
MIDDLESBROUGH boss Steve McClaren signalled exactly what he thought of the Worthington Cup last night by sending out an entire squad of reserve team players at unfancied Brentford. But McClaren, who has worked wonders at the Riverside since taking over
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Farmers dance
Thirsk Young Farmers have announced the date for the branch's first dinner dance for 15 years. It will be held at the Rose Manor Hotel, in Boroughbridge, from 7.30pm on Friday, November 1. Tickets cost £18.50, for details, call 0707 457 7531.
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Schoolboys succeed with road safety campaign
Two young boys from a North Yorkshire village could succeed where others have failed next week when council officials sit down to examine a bid for road safety package for their community. Luke Byrne, 11, and 13-year-old Thomas Lamb admit they have always
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Echo Memories: Policeman's murder is still veiled in mystery
"LATE last night, one of the most determined and diabolic murders that has ever stained the annals of the county took place at Diamond Bank, Butterknowle," reported The Northern Echo. It was no exaggeration. On the night of February 23, 1884, Acting Sergeant
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Boro boss McClaren unmoved by criticism over team selection
DEFIANT Steve McClaren last night defended his decision to field a weakened Boro side against Brentford, and claimed that he is likely to do it again. Middlesbrough beat Second Division side Brentford 4-1 at Griffin Park last night in the Worthington
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Darlington - Egg-throwing gangs 'a danger'
GANGS of youths have been criticised by police for throwing stones and eggs at passing cars on a busy Darlington road. Police have received complaints from drivers and residents about youths on Neasham Road throwing things at cars. One taxi driver had
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Taylor's Marco no-go
DARLINGTON were told by Northampton Town last night that Marco Gabbiadini will not be returning to Feethams. After prolonged negotiations with Northampton and Gabbiadini, who spent three goal-laden years at Darlington until the end of the 1999-2000 season
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Gadfly: Bill and Ben, bodice-rippers and a gallery of rouges
AMONG the many things for which this column has vainly argued over the years is an obituaries page, once or twice a week, in The Northern Echo. Apart from anything else it would be risk-free, since libelling the dead is generally considered impossible
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More Sedgefield success for Reveley
MARY REVELEY'S stable maintained their second-to-none record at Sedgefield yesterday knocking in a short-priced double via Double Blade and Sorrento King. By far and away numerically the most successful trainer at the track over the past five years with
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Communities to take tough line on anti-social behaviour
TWO North Yorkshire communities are considering taking a tougher line with young thugs blamed for late-night brawls and dangerous driving. Harrogate's genteel image has been tarnished lately by a growing number of complaints about anti-social behaviour
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The Simple way to clean up our country
WHAT a filthy lot we are. Pavements covered in dog dirt, playgrounds in broken glass, overflowing litter bins, fag ends, takeaway cartons and chewing gum everywhere. And that's before you start on public loos... A new study by ENCAMS, an environmental
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Bill and Ben, bodice-rippers and a gallery of rouges
AMONG the many things for which this column has vainly argued over the years is an obituaries page, once or twice a week, in The Northern Echo. Apart from anything else it would be risk-free, since libelling the dead is generally considered impossible
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Body found in Darlington
A town centre play area was sealed off after a man's body was found today morning. The body of Anthony Garnon, 35, of Darlington was found hanging from a climbing frame in the Denes area of the town. The area was immediately cordoned off by police and
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Going for a throng (or how show is packing in antiques fans)
A PENSIONER who had never been inside an auction room before asked the woman next to her what would happen when the sale started - not that she really cared, she wasn't there to buy. Along with crowds of others she was at Thomas Watson's in Darlington
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Darlington - School cycling wins big bonus
A campaign to encourage more youngsters to cycle to school has received a major boost. Eastbourne Comprehensive School, in Darlington, has secured £33,000 from the Government's Cycle Projects Fund - the largest grant of its kind awarded to any school
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Darlington - Harry runs 100th marathon
A DARLINGTON distance runner has passed a remarkable milestone by completing his 100th marathon. Harbhag Singh, known as Harry to his friends, has taken just over 20 years to complete the century. The Darlington Harrier, 58, was inspired to take up running
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No place for fox hunting in rural life
A LITTLE more than a century ago, people commonly shot wild birds. Even songbirds. The great naturalist Richard Jefferies reported how, in winter particularly, when birds sought food in the bare hedges, "on a Sunday morning you may hear the country for
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Club affiliates to chamber
THE Darlington Business Club has become an affiliate of the North-East Chamber of Commerce. The affiliation means its members can take advantage of some of the benefits available to chamber members. Chris Beaumont, vice-chairman of the chamber and a member
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Solicitors' firm boosts its team
A FIRM of solicitors in Darlington has boosted its commercial department with the appointment of a new member of staff. Close Thornton Solicitors, in Duke Street, Darlington, has employed Malcolm Woolfe to specialist in company and commercial property
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Extra advice offer for people seeking a start in business
BUDDING business starters in Darlington can get advice and help at a major event this month. Darlington Business Venture is hosting the event, which encourages people with ideas about setting up businesses to get advice before they start. More middle-aged
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Tack shop dream becomes reality for Leanne
A KEEN horsewoman has opened Darlington's only tack shop. Leanne Littlefair opened The Tack Room in Clark's Yard, between High Row and Skinnergate, last week. The 33-year-old, originally from Yarm, abandoned a career in catering to pursue her dream. She
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Gent returns to be part of Boro experience
Bernard Gent - known to thousands of soccer fans for more than 20 years as the voice of Ayresome Park - can once again be heard by Boro supporters preparing to watch a game. Communication company NTL has signed up Bernard as Boro TV's first continuity
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Jammy Charlie detects treasure
A SWEEP of Charlie Pounder's metal detector usually throws up nothing better than a bottle top or some decaying Victorian ceramics. But a chance visit to a Hartlepool building site sent his detector into overdrive and his heart racing. There - among the
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Northgate's expansion plan continues with £3m takeover
THE country's largest vehicle hire group, based in the North-East, has bought out one of its southern competitors. Yesterday it was announced that Northgate Motor Holdings of Darlington had bought Banbury-based Target Vehicle Rental for £3.36m. The buy-out
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Police seek leads in hammer attack assault
Police have issued an e-fit of a man who launched a frenzied hammer attack on a passer-by in Chester-le-Street this week. The attacker had been hiding in bushes in Picktree Lane and then pounced on a 39-year-old man, raining about a dozen blows on his
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Del Piero's classy touch hurts Robson
JUVENTUS' talismanic skipper Alessandro Del Piero ensured it was another cruel night at the Stadio Delle Alpi for Sir Bobby Robson. The Newcastle manager, who as England boss suffered his "worst moment in football'' when West Germany won the 1990 World
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Extra bread
MORE than 5,000 Darlington school pupils will enjoy a free breakfast as part of Walk to School Week. Baker Warburtons has given loaves to 24 schools in the borough as they complete their walk to school today, which is International Walk to School Day.
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Volunteer for IT
The Learning Network Project in Derwentside is looking for volunteers to help teach short computer courses and lead drop-in sessions at centres across the district. Volunteers need not have any formal IT qualification but should feel confident using a
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Charity forced to delay pet sanctuary
THE RSPCA has confirmed that plans to build an animal welfare centre will be put on ice for a year while it struggles with multi-million pound losses. The governing council of the charity announced yesterday it was taking drastic action to cut costs after
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Store chain to provide flu jabs
ASDA is offering customers flu vaccination jabs in all its stores as a one-off trial. More than 35,000 doses of the vaccine will be available on Saturday, October 12 for £11.97, a saving of about £8 on the private cost, the company said. Customers who
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Conference bound for the Tyne
THE Labour Party is to hold its spring conference in Gateshead in 2005 - bringing £1m to the local economy. The event will be held in the new arts and conference venue, the Sage, which is due to open in 2004. The £70m building, designed by Sir Norman
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'End obscenity of fox hunting'
ACTOR Tony Robinson yesterday called for an end to the "tawdry obscenity" of fox hunting. Mr Robinson, pictured, best known for his role as Baldrick in the Blackadder series, is a member of Labour's ruling National Executive Committee. He told conference
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MP calls for debate
A CLEVELAND MP has called for a debate about the exodus of young people from the county. Dr Ashok Kumar, Labour MP for Middlesbrough South, said it was "deeply worrying" that new statistics reveal there are ten per cent fewer young people on Teesside
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Frenzied hammer beating a mystery
A FRENZIED hammer attack in which a man suffered about a dozen blows to the head is being investigated by police. Detectives admit to be puzzled and concerned by the apparent lack of motive for the savage late night attack, last Friday in County Durham
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Street murder: Man in court
A DOCK worker is expected to enter a plea to a charge of murder tomorrow. John Barry Durham, of Major Street, Darlington, is accused of stabbing 37-year-old bricklayer John Robertson at the weekend. Mr Robertson, of Brinkburn Road, Darlington, was found
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Working lunch for duo
IT may only be three years old, but there were more than 100 candles on the cake, when the Galleries Training and Employment Link (G-Tel) celebrated its birthday. Since it was opened in 1999 by local MP Joyce Quinn, G-Tel, which is run by the North-East
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First stop for complaints
TWO hospitals on Teesside have appointed workers to try to deal with complaints before they become official. The University Hospitals of North Tees and Hartlepool both have patient advisory and liaison service officers. Nidhi Thakur and Jill Jackson are
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Self-sufficiency challenge
YOUNGSTERS on a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme have completed a gruelling expedition. The participants, from Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe and Durham City, took part in a four-day, 50-mile self-sufficiency expedition. The team was split into two groups
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Plea for pills return
Police are appealing for the return of a haul of more than 400 pills they say could be dangerous. The drugs are a mixture of diabetes medicine and anti-depressants, including 28 temazepam tablets. They went missing in the Hebburn area of South Tyneside
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Roadshow offers interactive lesson
A COLOURFUL roadshow is teaching children the importance of communication skills. The British Telecom Communications Roadshow is visiting schools throughout the region until October 17, educating children about basic speaking and listening skills in an
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Healthy balance
HEALTH workers in Hambleton and Richmondshire are being told of policies being set up to balance work with their home lives. The area's Primary Care Trust has signed up to the Improving Working Lives standard. "It's all about making sure our policies
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Comment: Stern talk but will he deliver?
NEXT year will mark Labour's longest period in office. In Blackpool this week, there have been signs of the weariness the responsibility of government brings to political parties. Protests from anti-war campaigners, dissent in the union ranks and defeat
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Man back in court after early release
FOUR days after an early release from a sentence of five months in a young offenders' institution for affray Steven Chandler was back before Harrogate magistrates yesterday - for affray. The court heard how while on bail for a late-night attack on bus
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Grandad's finger blown off as thug throws firework
A grandad had his finger blown off when a hooded thug hurled a powerful firework at him. Joe White was tending his garden when a youth hurled a Death Bomber in his direction. The explosive hit Mr White on the chest and shoulder causing serious injuries
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Grassroots: Weardale
HELPING OUT: Wolsingham Parish Council is considering plans to make minor alterations to the pavilion at the recreation ground so the football academy, which meets there every Saturday, can store its equipment. COFFEE DATE: A coffee morning in aid of
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Boost for security
A HIGH-TECH security camera system covering scores of units on a Billingham industrial estate will be officially re-opened on Monday by Cleveland's Chief Constable Barry Shaw. It follows a £30,000 revamp to provide facilities for businesses based in Cowpen
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Flagship salon for the capital
A NORTH-East hairdressing success story has opened a flagship store in Covent Garden, London. Saks Hair and Beauty's new salon is its largest yet, offering more new beauty treatments. The company has come a long way since opening its small salon in Priestgate
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Questions of sport to be answered
OPPORTUNITIES presented by a £65,000 boost for sport in York are to be debated by city council chiefs on Friday. The authority's executive will consider new initiatives, including efforts to generate fresh interest in rugby league and athletics. Member
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Thieves take safe on second attempt
THIEVES thwarted in their attempt to break open a safe in a North Yorkshire village church have returned. Initially, the raiders tried to chisel out the wall safe from its surrounding stonework in the parish church of St Lawrence at Aldfield, close to
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Market shoppers get feel for computers
VILLAGERS browsing at a market can now learn about computers. Lanchester Community Association is holding its annual Petticoat Lane Market as part of a grand open day in the village's community centre on Saturday, October 12. A range of stalls, displays
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Conduct in the spotlight
POLICE are offering rewards to primary school pupils who can show they are well-behaved. Six primary schools in South Tyneside are taking part in the scheme - the idea of community beat manager, PC Andy Wilkinson. Under the scheme, which started yesterday
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Time is up for old medicines
A CAMPAIGN urging people to clear out their medicine cupboards was launched in County Durham yesterday. Easington Primary Care Trust and local pharmacists are running the Time for a Clean Sweep campaign throughout October. It aims to eliminate the risks
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Objections to entertainment licence lead to compromise
DESPITE objections from more than a hundred residents, councillors yesterday agreed to grant an entertainment licence to Yarm Fellowship Hall. Stockton Borough Council's licensing committee received an application for the licence from the Yarm Fellowship
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Remedy for job loss - open your own shop
A HERBAL remedies expert is keeping a 60-year tradition going by starting her own shop. Until last Saturday, Pauline Wilson worked as an assistant at Black's Health Food Shop, in Claypath, Durham. But with the shop's closure after 60 years, its presence
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Darlington - Walks for all as the seasons change
PEOPLE have the chance to explore 400 miles of the County Durham landscape in the coming months. Durham County Council has produced a new programme of 68 guided walks from October to December. The programme includes easy town strolls and photographic
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Drivers 'must not park on paths'
MOTORISTS are being urged not to park on pavements following an increase in complaints from pedestrians. A growing number of people have complained to Sunderland City Council and the police about the problem of cars and vans parking on pavements in the
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Reward as Phil glides to success
A FIBREGLASS worker is flying high after he scored full marks in a string of business exams and his boss rewarded him with gliding lessons. Phil Burns, who works for Consett fibreglass manufacturer, Lamplas Durham, scored 100 per cent in every section
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News in brief: Arrests follow drug raids
TEN people have been arrested following drugs raids on properties in Middlesbrough. Officers seized crack cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and cannabis during the raids last week. A 23-year-old man was charged with possession of cannabis and a 39-year-old
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Minister and CBI clash over regional rule
THE minister in charge of delivering elected regional assemblies clashed last night with the boss of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) over the Government's devolution plans. At a fringe meeting in Blackpool, Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford
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Bishop praises tidy villagers
THE Bishop of Durham yesterday spoke of his fond memories of criss-crossing the county during his nine years in the diocese. Just weeks after revealing his intention to stand down next April, the Right Reverend Michael Turnbull said among the things he
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Motoring chaos fear over gritting cutback
MOTORISTS are being warned to take extra care this winter amid fears that cutbacks in road gritting could cause travel chaos. Durham County Council is cutting £400,000 from the seasonal road budget, which means fewer roads and footpaths will be salted
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Car clue to con trick thieves
DETECTIVES in Newton Aycliffe have issued a description of a car seen at two homes where distraction burglaries occurred yesterday. The red Rover 620, four-door saloon, registration OIJ 2476, was seen in the Elm Road area of Shildon, where thieves posing
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The gentleman's not for turning
Political Editor Chris Lloyd listens to Tony Blair's latest incarnation as a professor of history who is drawing on some very non-Labour sources for his inspiration. TONY Blair has played many roles in his career as a conference speaker. Last year he
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Vehicles link probed
DETECTIVES investigating the shooting of a 21-year-old soldier at the weekend believe those responsible may have been in the area up to an hour beforehand. Witnesses have come forward to say a dark-coloured Land Rover Discovery was in the Princes Square
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Marathon goal
A MOTHER-of-three is putting on her running shoes to raise money for disabled children. Rachel Scholey, 38, of Heighington, is flying to America to take part in the New York marathon on November 3. The regional sales manager for Paramount Hotels hopes
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News in brief: PC assault charge denied
Andrew Hughff, of Brinkburn Road, Darlington, pleaded not guilty to damaging a security light and to assaulting a police officer on May 28, when he appeared before Darlington magistrates yesterday. He also denied behaving in a violent manner at Darlington
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Woman, 50, dies after fire sweeps bungalow
A WOMAN died when a blaze ripped through her Bishop Auckland home yesterday morning. Doctors at Bishop Auckland General Hospital were unable to save the 50-year-old, who was trapped inside the bungalow, in Wesley Grove, when fire engulfed the property
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Remembering Captain Cook
A SERIES of lectures to mark the birthday of explorer Captain James Cook is launched tomorrow in Middlesbrough. The free talks, on topics including the history of Marton, which was Cook's birthplace, and some of his voyages, will take place at the Captain
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News in brief: Arrests follow drug raids
TEN people have been arrested following drugs raids on properties in Middlesbrough. Officers seized crack cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and cannabis during the raids last week. A 23-year-old man was charged with possession of cannabis and a 39-year-old
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News in brief: Hunt for youths after assault
A GANG of youths kicked a mobile phone out of their victim's hand as he tried to call for help, then assaulted him. The 22-year-old man suffered cuts and bruises in the attack, which took place at the back of Clifford Road, Stanley, County Durham, at
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Offensive against retail crime
Usdaw, the shopworkers' union, is joining the Government and employers' group the British Retail Consortium (BRC) to combat the rise in retail crime. More than 19,250 retail workers were physically attacked last year and 28,000 were verbally abused or
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Survey uncovers faulty blankets
TRADING standards officials in Hartlepool have voiced their concerns after free safety tests uncovered a large number of dangerous electric blankets. A total of 62 blankets were tested over a two-day period last month and 45 per cent were found to be
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Jobs in sight as store grows
SEVEN jobs are to be created when the expansion of a Hartlepool optician is completed. Specsavers is investing £300,000 on a store expansion and refit for the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre premises. It began early last month and should be finished
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News in brief: PC assault charge denied
Andrew Hughff, of Brinkburn Road, Darlington, pleaded not guilty to damaging a security light and to assaulting a police officer on May 28, when he appeared before Darlington magistrates yesterday. He also denied behaving in a violent manner at Darlington
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Darlington - Toddle waddle raises funds
TODDLERS put their best foot forward in an unusual charity fund-raising event last week. The youngsters from Skerne Park Childcare Centre, in Darlington, dressed appropriately as ducks for a 'toddle-waddle' around the area on Wednesday. About 16 toddlers
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Darlington - Stanley takes the stage
A DARLINGTON youngster has joined the cast of the Royal Shakespeare Company to perform one of the Bard's best comedies. Stanley Hodgson from Darlington joins Alexander Hennessey from Leyburn and Newcastle youngsters David McNally and Thomas Berry as part
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Farewell from trainer who brought home the National
AFTER 1,700 winners, one of the country's oldest and longest-serving racehorse trainers is hungry for just one more success to round off an illustrious career. Denys Smith would like one more victory before the end of the Flat racing season this month
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Women fight off armed thief
The landlady of an award-winning guest house has told how she and four other women fought with a thief who threatened them with a knife. Heather Armstrong, three members of her staff from Clow Beck House, Croft, near Darlington, and a woman motorist held
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MP who lost son-in-law will seek medical advice
A North-East MP whose son-in-law died after surgery to amputate his foot is to seek medical advice about his treatment in hospital. Frank Cook, MP for Stockton North, believes his daughter's husband Eric Fawkes, 46, should have been prescribed an anti-coagulant
