Archive
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Best ever entries in bowls contest
A BOWLS tournament that moved to north-west Durham last year is attracting a record number of entrants. The World Bowls Tour and Professional Bowls Association UK National Qualifiers will take place at the Stanley Indoor Bowls Club next month. Traditionally
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Craig bids for glory in internet challenge
AROUND-THE-CLOCK teenage technology wizard Craig Rodway is representing the North-East in a national Internet challenge. Craig, 16, from Coundon, has turned his computer hobby into a career, staying on after GCSEs at Bishop Barrington to work as an information
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Youth exchange
YOUNG people from Germany and Japan were welcomed to Middlesbrough yesterday as part of a youth exchange visit. During their trip, organised by Middlesbrough Council's youth service, the visitors will be staying with local families and enjoying a range
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New centre to help disabled learn skills
DISABLED and unemployed people on Teesside are to have more access to new skills to enhance their job options. Funding for the construction of an Employment Action Centre, in Middlesbrough, has been secured with a £250,000 grant from the Community Fund
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Council closes dirty pizza shop
A PIZZA restaurant which was the target of a petrol bomb attack earlier this year has been closed on health grounds. Luisianos Pizza Parlour, in Roseberry Square, Redcar, had an emergency prohibition notice served on it after environmental health officers
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News in brief: Village pub scoops award
A village pub is toasting another award from the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra). The Crown Inn, in Manfield, near Darlington, has been voted the best Camra pub in the Darlington area for the second consecutive year. A festival offering 22 guest beers will
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Engine owner's rally tribute to mother
RETIRED haulage contractor Maurice Jackson will this weekend proudly show off a 2.5 tonne traction engine which he named after his mother. The 1924 Lady Mary will be one of 200 entries at the 10th annual rally organised by the Kirkleatham Vehicle and
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Vandals damage sewage works
PARENTS have been urged to monitor the whereabouts of their children after a spate of vandalism in a quiet North Yorkshire village. Gilling West, near Richmond, is not usually plagued by problems in the summer holidays but recently youngsters have found
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Revealed - naked truth about rambler
THE identity of the mystery nudist spotted hiking through the Yorkshire Dales may now have been . . . er, revealed. The intrepid trekker is thought to be 44-year-old Steve Gough, a former truck driver who has set himself the task of walking from Land's
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Agony of teenager turned into human torch by gang
A TEENAGER has described how he was turned into a human torch by thugs who sprayed flammable liquid on to his head and set him alight. Computer technology student Mark Burdis, 17, was saved by remembering his training from the Duke of Edinburgh Award
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News in brief: Porn charge man in court
A man arrested as part of Operation Ore, the trans-Atlantic investigation into child pornography on the Internet, appeared before Harrogate magistrates yesterday. Oliver Daniel, 43, of the town's Cheltenham Mount, was remanded on bail until August 28.
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News website is a Nothern Echo winner
AN ONLINE community newspaper has been named a winner by The Northern Echo. The Bowburn News website, set up by Gary Hutchinson with the help of The Northern Echo's CommuniGate programme, provides stories, pictures and information about the County Durham
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Ocean is on crest of a wave
OCEAN VICTORY'S winning streak show no signs of stopping at Haydock today, where the Bill Hogan Handicap looks at his mercy. Jeremy Noseda's colt gave notice he might be something special by slamming a useful field of maidens at Lingfield last month.
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Airline catering contract for spa water firm
Harrogate Spa Water is flying high after winning a contract to pack water 'cuplets' for the airline catering industry. Up to 3m plastic cups of mineral water, sealed with foils, will be produced during the first 12 months of the deal to make up in-flight
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Saltburn's last-minute push to win Bloom award
Residents left devastated after a mystery poisoner killed off hundreds of hanging baskets were racing against the clock today in a bid to impress judges in the annual Britain in Bloom awards. It was feared Saltburn's hopes of winning the competition had
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Letters
PAUL TRIPPETT I CONGRATULATE my local Durham County Councillor, Paul Trippett, for refusing the increase in allowances that has been awarded by the councillors to the councillors (Echo, Aug 1). The new allowances work out at £157 per week against the
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Danger drugs on sale - at a few clicks of the mouse
The death of Durham University graduate Liam Brackell has prompted calls for restrictions on how prescription drugs are sold over the internet. Neil Hunter discovers how easy it is. IT took only 30 seconds to find an Internet site where prescription drugs
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TV review
Teachers (Ch 4) FORGET the summer holidays, this show is enough to make every parent want to keep their children home from school permanently. The teachers at Summerdown School don't worry about lesson plans and exam results - instead they spend their
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Pass me my fluffy slippers, dear
Apparently, women living 50 years ago were far fitter than the fairer sex is today, or so a piece of research tells us. A suburban lady's chores in the 1950s were a far more effective way of burning lard than ours are. An average of 1,512 calories a day
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Students get a taste for bridge design
A TASTEFUL copy of a famous city landmark is on display in a restaurant at a North-East arts centre. Constructed entirely out of pretzels, the replica of Newcastle's Tyne Bridge is being exhibited at McCoys Rooftop Restaurant, in the Gateshead Baltic
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Menace of drugs on the Internet
THE mother of a talented graduate who killed himself after becoming addicted to a cocktail of prescription drugs bought over the Internet demanded changes in the law last night. Angry Sue Brackell called on the Government to address the problem of unregulated
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Classroom assistants lobby for pay rise
CLASSROOM assistants could take industrial action in a wrangle over pay for their increasing responsibilities. The Government wants assistants to have a greater role in the education of children and stand in for teachers who are ill. But assistants in
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Tait puts Tigers in title hunt
Darlington manager Mick Tait is tipping opening-day opponents Hull City to be a force in Division Three this season. The Quakers boss, who made 34 appearances for the Tigers as a player, believes Peter Taylor's side are capable of challenging for honours
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Web world wonder boy reaches finals
ROUND-THE-CLOCK teenage technology whizz Craig Rodway is representing the North-East in a national internet challenge. The 16-year-old from Coundon has turned his computer hobby into a career, staying on after GCSEs at Bishop Barrington to work as an
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Alstom reaches deal over debt
FRENCH heavy engineer Alstom has announced a £2bn rescue package backed by the French Government. The power and transport conglomerate, which is wilting under a £3.4bn debt mountain, said it had negotiated a deal under which the government would take
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Fleming shines in the Headingley lights as Tykes romp home
New Zealand captain Matthew Fleming played Yorkshire's greatest ever floodlit innings at Headingley last night to rush them to a sensational victory by seven wickets over Warwickshire Bears. The tall left-hander powered his way to a dazzling 139 not out
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German success for VAI UK
A TEESSIDE company is behind the world's most environmentally-friendly slag processing plant. VAI UK built an emmission-free factory that turns slag, a byproduct of the reduction of iron ore to iron, into a fine powder which can be used in cement-making
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Newsletter for visually impaired
VISUALLY impaired volunteers have produced a newsletter for fellow sufferers in Darlington. The 4sight newsletter aims to keep visually impaired people, and their families and friends up to speed on news and developments affecting them. It will be produced
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£200,000 cash boost for GP surgeries
DOCTORS' surgeries in Darlington have received more than £200,000 in the last year for extra staff and equipment. The town's 11 GP practices will receive the same amount again if they continue to reach targets. The funding has come from Darlington Primary
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Police issue bikes alert
POLICE in Darlington are warning cyclists to keep their bikes secure following a spate of thefts. Two unsecured bikes were stolen from a back yard in the Cockerton area overnight on Monday. The theft is the latest in a string of incidents in the past
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Seventies fashions on parade for fundraiser
PUB regulars will be dressing up in 1970s fashions for a charity walk this month. The Lakeside pub, at Woodham, Newton Aycliffe, is organising a pub crawl that will take in six of the town's bars. Lakeside bar manager Richard Parker dreamt up the stunt
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Stage is set for town's gala weekend
THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend the annual Ferryhill Gala at the weekend. The town's Market Place will come alive on Saturday and Sunday for an event which is now in its fourth year. Originally organised to celebrate the millennium, the gala
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Stage is set for town's gala weekend
THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend the annual Ferryhill Gala at the weekend. The town's Market Place will come alive on Saturday and Sunday for an event which is now in its fourth year. Originally organised to celebrate the millennium, the gala
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Nursery youngsters get the painting bug
CHILDREN at a Darlington nursery are getting closer to nature by painting a huge mural in their playground. Creepy crawlies are emerging at the town hall's Kids & Co Nursery, with the aid of art and design students from Darlington College of Technology
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Second 'noble savage' painting saved for nation
AN oil painting has been saved for the nation after a major effort led by one of the region's smallest museums. The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, at Whitby, North Yorkshire, joined forces with the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museums and
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Gardening success
A FATHER-OF-FIVE has won the top prize in a Teesside gardening competition thanks to his team of helpers. Thomas Harrison, 51, of Steele Crescent, South Bank, was awarded first prize for the best front garden of the year in the annual South Bank Gardening
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The day Chubby failed to find swear word funny
NORTH-EAST comedian Roy "Chubby" Brown failed to see the funny side when a fan heckled him. Brown, who specialises in blue jokes, was insulted when a man swore at him before his end of the pier show, Blackpool magistrates heard yesterday. Brown, 58, of
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Cases heard in the magistrates' court
The following cases were heard at Bishop Auckland Magistrates Court yesterday: OFFENCES ADMITTED: The case against a man who admitted three motoring offences and obstructing a police officer, has been adjourned until September 3, for reports. Gary Singlewood
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Eyestorm acquires rival
NEWCASTLE art retailer Eyestorm has bought one of its rivals, Britart, to create a £3.5m business. Lawyers Dickinson Dees advised on the deal. Eyestorm sells limited edition prints by artists such as Damien Hirst and David Hockney. It will combine its
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Boy hurt while trying to shield friend from truck
A BOY was critically ill in hospital last night after trying to shield his young friend when they were hit by a truck. Nine-year-old Shay Corrie and Jack Briggs, five, suffered serious head injuries when they were hit as they crossed a road not far from
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Teenager jailed for fracturing victim's skull
A TEENAGER was put behind bars yesterday for an attack which will probably leave his victim deaf in one ear for life. Philip Dring, 19, was waiting in the street for a lift to his night shift when he was attacked by Gary Read, who he knew. Teesside Crown
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Fun day plans
THE Royal Pump Room in Harrogate will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a family fun day. Activities during the 1950s-themed event will include craft demonstrations, children's trails, replica costumes and a New Elizabethan exhibition. The fun day takes
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Curtain up at refurbished theatre
AMATEUR actors will have the honour of performing the first play at a refurbished theatre this evening. Fundraisers are still trying to find the remaining £160,000 needed to cover the £1.5m bill for the restoration of the Georgian Theatre Royal, in Richmond
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Students get a taste for bridge design
A TASTEFUL copy of a famous city landmark is on display in a restaurant at a North-East arts centre. Constructed entirely out of pretzels, the replica of Newcastle's Tyne Bridge is being exhibited at McCoys Rooftop Restaurant, in the Gateshead Baltic
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Paul driven to succeed by training
AN unemployed worker from Ferryhill was the first to take advantage of a training centre that will cater for the needs of 500 apprentices and 40 staff. Paul Thompson, 26, hopes to launch a career as a forklift truck driver and is using South West Durham
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Agony of teenager turned into human torch by gang
A TEENAGER has described how he was turned into a human torch by thugs who sprayed flammable liquid on to his head and set him alight. Computer technology student Mark Burdis, 17, was saved by remembering his training from the Duke of Edinburgh Award
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Bypass man in 10km run
A HEART attack victim is planning to take part in a charity race to raise money for the hospital unit that cared for him. Father-of-two Peter Stemmer was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital after suffering a heart attack last Easter. He was transferred
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Insect delights on the menu
CRUNCHY crickets and toasted silkworms will be some of the creepy crawly delicacies on offer at a North-East attraction next week. The Life Science Centre in Newcastle is putting bugs, including locusts and grasshoppers, on its menu from Monday. Teresa
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Police launch safety campaign for bikers
A POLICE force has come up with a new way of promoting safer motorbike riding - by taking its poster campaign on to the roads. Four firms have agreed to display large versions of the Northumbria Police's posters on their vehicles, as part of the Weekender
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Road safety scheme on hold again
A scheme to improve safety at one of North Yorkshire's worst accident blackspots has been delayed again. The Highways Agency said it is not possible for work to start on building a flyover and closing a gap in the central reservation on the A64 at Bilbrough
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Inquest awaits outcome of murder case
AN INQUEST has been adjourned pending the conclusion of a murder inquiry into the death of an IT consultant who was found with severe head injuries in a North-East street. Mark Connorton, 37, died on June 17, nine days after he was found in King Street
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Plea to industry for youth training
AN east Durham MP has called on employers to play a more active role in training the workforce of the future. Urging a new and positive approach, John Cummings warned that too many 16 to 18- year-olds in the Easington district had low expectations of
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Plans seek to improve care for mothers
AN overhaul of maternity services offered in parts of the county could revolutionise the treatment available to expectant mothers. Plans are under way to develop and modernise the services and facilities available to pregnant women in the Scarborough,
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Children earn date with football stars
A PROJECT to reward children for their school attendance continues today when three youngsters will meet Middlesbrough Football Club players. The Schools Tackling Absence and Rewarding Success (Stars) programme, which is managed by Stockton Education
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Yellow lines could cost us business, say shop owners
SHOP owners fear they may have to close if plans to put double yellow lines outside their premises are approved. Traders on the Neasham Road parade, in Billingham, say that unless a car park is included in the plans they will lose business to supermarkets
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Old clothes given scarecrow transformation
YOUNGSTERS have been turning their old clothes into scarecrows. The workshop, which was held at Newham Grange Leisure Farm, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, gave children the opportunity to create their own Worzel Gummidge. Among those taking part were eight-year-old
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A taste of circus life
CHILDREN from across Teesside learnt a range of circus activities yesterday. The Out-of-School and Holiday Club fun day, called Circus of Delight, took place at the New Life Day Centre in Billingham. During the event, which was organised by Sure Start
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Volunteers sought for sprinkler system pilot
COUNCIL tenants who have special needs are being sought to take part in a fire safety initiative. Smoke detectors are already fitted in most properties owned by Richmondshire District Council. However, the authority is considering extending the level
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News in brief: Ramblers to walk coastline
Durham Ramblers will be walking on the Cleveland coastline on Sunday, August 17. A coach will take walkers to and from Durham. For further information call 0191-372 1664. PARK LARK: The next Lark in the Park takes place in Allensford Park, near Consett
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John North: The ideal business for a big kid
SOME classifieds from the August issue of Collectors Gazette: "Batman items wanted, 1966-79...Retired couple want to sell collection of Avon bubble bath containers...Rod Hull Emu puppet with pink body wanted...Robertson's golly items wanted, high prices
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'My son's death could have been avoided'
THE father of a seventh soldier found hanged at a North Yorkshire barracks said last night his death could have been avoided. Lance Corporal Derek McGregor, 21, of the 3 Close Support Squadron, was found dead at Catterick Garrison on July 7. He had been
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Group bids for a better future
ATTEMPTS to improve employment are among projects totalling almost £500,000 lined up for Wear Valley and surrounding areas. Groundwork West Durham has announced regeneration plans for the area that will cost £493,454. Among the projects are employment
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Insect delights on the menu
CRUNCHY crickets and toasted silkworms will be some of the creepy crawly delicacies on offer at a North-East attraction next week. The Life Science Centre in Newcastle is putting bugs, including locusts and grasshoppers, on its menu from Monday. Teresa
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Death case driver banned once again
A YOUNG man who caused the death of a girl when he crashed his car two years ago has been banned from the road for drink driving. Lewis Hardy, of Bog House Farm, Eggleston, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, pleaded guilty to driving while over the legal
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Inquest awaits outcome of murder case
AN INQUEST has been adjourned pending the conclusion of a murder inquiry into the death of an IT consultant who was found with severe head injuries in a North-East street. Mark Connorton, 37, died on June 17, nine days after he was found in King Street
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Young people to have say at city conference
HUNDREDS of North-East children will have the chance to speak out about issues affecting their lives at an event next week. More than 300 youngsters will take part in a two-day conference at Newcastle Civic Centre on Thursday and Friday next week. Those
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Birthday in focus at photo exhibition
A PHOTOGRAPHER who has captured the changing face of a North-East city over the past 50 years is celebrating his 90th birthday with an exhibition of his work. Newcastle City Library is hosting an exhibition of pictures by award-winning photographer Jimmy
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Notes From Planet Zog: When your little soldier discovers sex
S is for SEX. You knew we had to get there sooner or later. And it's probably sooner than you think. Tricky to think of your little boy having a sex life. But if it's any consolation, he probably thinks the same about you. Parents? Sex? Gross. Even though
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Teenager charged with breaching court order
A TEENAGER appeared in court yesterday charged with breaching an interim anti-social behaviour order on the day it was imposed. The 16-year-old, from Thornaby, near Stockton, is accused of using abusive language on July 17, only hours after the order
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Globe makes a world of difference
A HUGE bronze globe commemorating the epic voyages of Teesside's most famous son has been installed at the hospital which bears his name. The James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, has taken delivery of the globe and sextant, which now stands
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£3.2bn - the true cost of crime
CRIME is costing the region's taxpayers £3.2bn a year according to Home Office figures. The Home Office worked out the cost of crimes including burglary, wounding, sex crimes, robbery and murder. On average, an offence recorded by the police costs £11,321
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Police enforce town car park curfew town
POLICE blocked the entrance to a town centre car park at the weekend to stop illegal Sunday night 'car cruises.' Dozens of drivers regularly congregate in the North Bondgate car park in Bishop Auckland, which some use as a starting point for speed contests
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Putting the cool back into school
Teachers (Ch 4): FORGET the summer holidays, this show is enough to make every parent want to keep their children home from school permanently. The teachers at Summerdown School don't worry about lesson plans and exam results - instead they spend their
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School sports day images taken off Internet
IMAGES of children taking part in a school sports day were being removed from the Internet last night amid fears that they could be manipulated by perverts. Pupils from Timothy Hackworth Primary School, in Shildon, County Durham, were featured on the
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Changes to main road
PLANS to make changes to one of the main roads through Darlington will go under public scrutiny this month. Darlington Borough Council launched a month-long consultation on the £750,000 plans for the A167 Northgate, High Northgate and North Road. The
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Veron poised to follow as Cole joins Chelsea
Joe Cole last night completed his move to Chelsea with Juan Sebastian Veron poised to follow suit today. Chelsea were involved in talks with both players over personal terms yesterday after agreeing fees of £15m and £6.6m respectively with Manchester
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The 21st century Anne Boleyn
It has long been seen as the issue which could split the Church Of England - and now that prophecy looks likely to come true. Nick Morrison looks at how the appointment of the first gay Anglican bishop could tear a 450-yar-old institution apart. IT wasn't
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When your little soldier discovers sex
S is for SEX. You knew we had to get there sooner or later. And it's probably sooner than you think. Tricky to think of your little boy having a sex life. But if it's any consolation, he probably thinks the same about you. Parents? Sex? Gross. Even though
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Green power holds key, says task force
A BLUEPRINT for the economic revival of a Weardale was finally unveiled last week. Every resident will be given a summary of the Integrated Rural Development Plan, which has been hailed by a task force chairman John Hamilton as a model for rural regeneration
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Prison officers 'were pelted with pool balls'
RIOTING prisoners pelted prison officers with pool balls after one was not allowed to use the gym, a court was told yesterday. Sixty prisoners ware involved in the disturbance at Holme House jail, Stockton, in which two officers ware injured. It was sparked
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Last Night's TV: Putting the cool back into school
Teachers (Ch 4): FORGET the summer holidays, this show is enough to make every parent want to keep their children home from school permanently. The teachers at Summerdown School don't worry about lesson plans and exam results - instead they spend their
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Town blossoming once more after poisoning
Two weeks ago it seemed as if Saltburn's efforts to win Britain in Bloom may have been thwarted by a mystery poisoner. But yesterday the community rallied in preparation for today's visit by competition judges. Alex Mott reports. THERE was more than a
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All of our balloons are missing . . .
BAFFLED fundraisers are begging for help after their entire balloon race disappeared. About 140 balloons were released from Lanchester Cricket Club, near Consett, County Durham, on June 1. Entrants bought balloons and the one that was found the furthest
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After 30 years, engines 'reunited'
TWO fire engines have been reunited after being pensioned off 120 miles apart. Former Sunderland fireman Dennis Barker bought his 1957 fire engine from Lancashire County Fire Brigade about 30 years ago. The NCB 100 engine was used by Blackburn fire brigade
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Park to stage historic English play
AN audience has been invited to picnic in a park while watching one of the oldest works of English theatre. More than 45 North Yorkshire youngsters will be presenting the Wakefield Mysteries in Harrogate's Valley Gardens from August 19 to 21. Members
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Councillor hands over allowance row cash
A SUSPENDED Labour councillor has kept his pledge to donate his "immoral" allowance increase to local causes. Paul Trippett, a friend and ally of Tony Blair, was banished from the Labour group on Durham County Council for six months after he criticised
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Clarification
WE have been asked to point out that the turf business near Scotch Corner, North Yorkshire, recently advertised for sale is not J & B Farnaby, turf growers, of Brough Moor Farm, Scurragh Lane, Skeeby, near Scotch Corner. J & B Farnaby has been
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News in brief: Selby disaster inquest date
THE inquest into the deaths of the Selby rail disaster victims will finally get under way next month. Ten people died when an express train collided with a freight train on the East Coast main line at Great Heck, near Selby, in February 2001. West Yorkshire
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Plea for clues to sex attack at abbey
A 14-YEAR-OLD girl was subjected to a serious sexual attack at a North-East abbey earlier this week. The teenager was with two other friends in West Yorkshire when they were offered a lift by three men in a Y-registered Renault Clio. They were taken to
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Square sheep return to artist's studio
PAINTINGS which helped an artist make his name will be back on show in his studio this weekend. Mackenzie Thorpe will always be known as "the square sheep man" whose quirky and colourful paintings of the animals caught the imagination of thousands. Mr
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Firm fined after young dad's death
A MOTHER whose son was killed at work because of insufficient safety measures has criticised a court's decision to impose a £10,000 fine on the company to blame. Factory worker and young dad James West, 22, was crushed when an overhead crane operated
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Les be serious
THERE are some characters in Soapland whom we would lock up and cheerfully throw away the key. Les Battersby is at the top of the list. Unfortunately, he's out. Having served his time for bashing Janice's bent copper boyfriend, Battersby the batterer
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Cash wrangle holds up Healy's arrival
SUNDERLAND'S plans to sign Colin Healy in time for Saturday's Nationwide League opener at Nottingham Forest were last night in jeopardy as the club became embroiled in a cash wrangle. After 23-year-old Healy agreed personal terms with Sunderland and passed
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All Pea needs is the love of a mate
A WILD bird which is so desperate to become a mother that it sat on unfertilised eggs until it nearly starved to death, is on the lookout for a partner. Pea the peahen nested in the garden of Tony and Ann Westgarth and laid four eggs. The eggs were not
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Support group offers more help to witnesses in court
WITNESSES in criminal cases are to be offered more help and support thanks to a scheme launched in County Durham this week. Since November 2001, Victim Support volunteers have provided free advice to people giving evidence at court in an effort to make
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Patience a virtue for Ritchie
PATIENCE is the watchword for Hartlepool United and Ritchie Humphreys this season. Pool start their days in Division Two with a trip to Peterborough on Saturday. And after being among the most entertaining teams in the lower division in the last few seasons
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07/08/03
PAUL TRIPPETT: I CONGRATULATE my local Durham County Councillor, Paul Trippett, for refusing the increase in allowances that has been awarded by the councillors to the councillors (Echo, Aug 1). The new allowances work out at £157 per week against the
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Pensioner victim of terrifying sex attack
DETECTIVES are hunting a masked intruder who subjected an 87-year-old woman to a sexual attack. The victim, who is not being identified, woke shortly after 5am yesterday to find the man, wearing a dark mask and armed with a knife, in her bedroom. It appears
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Given's Euro warning for Magpies
SHAY GIVEN last night warned his Newcastle United teammates not to blow their Champions League dream by taking next week's qualifier first-round lightly. The Newcastle goalkeeper will travel to Partizan Belgrade or Djurgardens next Wednesday remembering
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Police warn of dangers of playing in rivers
Police say that a combination of the current hot weather and open water could provide a deadly temptation for the thousands of youngsters now on their school holidays. The warning comes on the anniversary of schoolboy Christopher Glen's death three years
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Grassroots: Derwentside
SURE START: Carla Timpey, who joined Stanley Sure Start last summer to study computers, is preparing to start an Access to Higher Education course. Building work has began on the group's new centre in Clifford Road. The group is holding a Peruvian storytime
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Pub's tonic for charity
A pub regular has helped raise more than £4,000 for a local charity. Archie Blackburn, who has been visiting the Sheraton pub, in Hardwick, Stockton, since it opened in 1966, led the fundraising drive by regulars at the pub. Mr Blackburn has been holding
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Bus service under threat due to lack of passengers
VILLAGERS have been warned they could lose a new bus service unless more passengers use it. The 176 route was introduced last November to take people directly from the Lumley area to Durham. Stops include the city's University Hospital and the Arnison
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News in brief: Village pub scoops award
A village pub is toasting another award from the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra). The Crown Inn, in Manfield, near Darlington, has been voted the best Camra pub in the Darlington area for the second consecutive year. A festival offering 22 guest beers will
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Passenger killed, five hurt in head-on crashes
A 48-year-old man died in one of two head-on smashes on North-East roads yesterday. Front seat passenger Norman Rayner, of Acacia Gardens, Crook, County Durham, suffered multiple injuries and died at the scene. Police said that the Ford Fiesta, which
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Best ever entries in bowls contest
A BOWLS tournament that moved to north-west Durham last year is attracting a record number of entrants. The World Bowls Tour and Professional Bowls Association UK National Qualifiers will take place at the Stanley Indoor Bowls Club next month. Traditionally
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Plans for park put on hold
PLANS to redevelop Darlington's South Park have been put on hold. Cleveland Bridge, the company that has been granted planning permission to build a pavilion, sports pitches and a car park, has said it has no immediate plans to start the work. Last week
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US owner abandons plans to refinance power plant
THE future of Britain's biggest power station, Drax, hangs in the balance after its owner abandoned debt restructuring plans. American energy group AES walked away from the plant when creditors failed to agree a deal which would have returned less than
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Gardeners reminded of ban on creosote
GARDENERS across the region have been reminded that a European ban on creosote is now in force. The chemical, once popular for waterproofing wood, has been identified as a carcinogen and has been withdrawn from general sale because tests suggested it
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Gardeners reminded of ban on creosote
GARDENERS across the region have been reminded that a European ban on creosote is now in force. The chemical, once popular for waterproofing wood, has been identified as a carcinogen and has been withdrawn from general sale because tests suggested it
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Ocean is on crest of a wave
OCEAN VICTORY'S winning streak show no signs of stopping at Haydock today, where the Bill Hogan Handicap looks at his mercy. Jeremy Noseda's colt gave notice he might be something special by slamming a useful field of maidens at Lingfield last month.
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Contest for top sausage-eating dog
A NOVELTY competition for dog lovers will be held in the North-East this weekend. The contest, at Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough, includes categories for the fattest sausage-eating dog, the pooch with the best fancy dress costume, and the one with the waggiest
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Fun and games herald first day in business
SHOPPERS are expected to flock to the long-awaited opening of Wilkinson Bishop Auckland. The new store, which has created about 80 new jobs, opens its doors for the first time in the Newgate Centre tomorrow Traders hope it will attract more people to
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Water pistol fun ends in CS spray arrest
A PRANKSTER ended up being squirted with CS spray after a passing police officer was hit with a high-powered water pistol. Road worker Gary Parker, who had been involved in a water fight with friends, was sprayed with the gas during his arrest. The 26
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Home resident dies at 106
ONE of the region's oldest residents has died aged 106. From 1993, Annie Andrews was a resident of Eastbourne Nursing Home, Darlington, where she died on Monday. Mrs Andrews, a regular player at the Eldon Bingo Hall, was born and brought up in Darlington
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Boy hurt while trying to shield friend from truck
A BOY was critically ill in hospital last night after trying to shield his young friend when they were hit by a truck. Nine-year-old Shay Corrie and Jack Briggs, five, suffered serious head injuries when they were hit as they crossed a road not far from
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Slaven fails in bid to sue TV bosses
Football star Bernie Slaven has failed in a bid to sue his former television bosses for unfair dismissal. The former Middlesbrough striker was axed from his role as an expert commentator with Boro TV after helping to launch the channel more than five
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Hopes rise for missing boy after new sighting
Police searching for a 15-year-old North-East boy who went missing at a popular Scottish tourist spot said last night he had been spotted in the early hours ten miles from his last known location. Officers are now carrying out door-to-door inquiries in
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Soap Watch: Les be serious
THERE are some characters in Soapland whom we would lock up and cheerfully throw away the key. Les Battersby is at the top of the list. Unfortunately, he's out. Having served his time for bashing Janice's bent copper boyfriend, Battersby the batterer
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Boateng backing the boss
STEVE McCLAREN has been backed by Middlesbrough midfielder George Boateng to get it right in the transfer market. The Boro boss has been frantically trying to tie up a deal for a number of midfield targets this summer following the departure of Geremi
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Builders complain of skills shortage
BUILDERS across the region are being inundated with orders they are struggling to meet because of a shortage of skilled workers. The Federation of Master Builders' (FMB) State of Trade survey showed that workloads and employment levels were expected to
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Film chief to put region on the map
FILM-making in the North has been given a boost with the appointment a distinguished producer. Hugo Heppell has been appointed head of production for the regional screen agency, Screen Yorkshire. He will be backed by a fund of about £2m for activities
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Show delays
POLICE in Sedgefield are warning drivers to take extra care when passing through the village on Saturday. An estimated 4,000 visitors are expected at the 150th Sedgefield Show, which will be held throughout the day. A temporary one-way system will be
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Young dog trainers rally
A DARLINGTON girl has joined children from across the country at a dog training event. Joanne Irving, 12, from Sadberge, will be at the Young Kennel Club Training Camp with her Labradors Golden Dewdrops and Noir Nectar, at Newark showground, in Nottinghamshire
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Council phone link
AN out-of-hours telephone number for council staff is to be displayed in parks, cemeteries and open spaces in Darlington, after a report in The Northern Echo. Kathleen Bland discovered a dead duck in South Park at the weekend but was unable to alert park
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Sunshine care for store staff
WORKERS at a Darlington supermarket were treated to free sun cream yesterday to protect them from the scorching weather. Managers at the Asda store in Whinbush Way gave staff working outdoors, including warehouse men and trolley porters, lotion to protect
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Controversial park scheme temporarily put on hold
CONTROVERSIAL proposals to redevelop Darlington's South Park have been temporarily shelved. Cleveland Bridge, the company which has been granted permission to build a pavilion, sports pitches and a car park at the park, said it has no immediate plans
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Lion takes pride of place in contest
THE Golden Lion toppled the Dun Cow Inn from the top spot in Sedgefield Civic Trust's annual floral competition. The pub won the George Robinson Trophy for commercial properties, a category which the Dun Cow has won several times. But this year the pub
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Salesman suspended after complaint
A GAS and electricity salesman who terrorised a disabled woman in her own home has been suspended pending a disciplinary hearing. The npower representative left Theresa Crooke, 57, shaking and "petrified" after haranguing her for an hour in her Darlington
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Soldiers forge Irish links
SOLDIERS from the region have been helping to build bridges with youngsters in Northern Ireland. The 1st Battalion, the Green Howards, which is based in Ballykelly, welcomed pupils from a local primary school who sampled life in the British Army for a
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Thieves flee with cool lolly haul
MORE than 4,000 alcoholic ice pops were stolen early yesterday. The vodka and Red Bull ice pops, which are not on sale in this country, were imported by a local business and were being stored in the house, in Falstaff Court, Darlington, until they were
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Scarecrow challenge
VILLAGERS in Upper Weardale are being asked to put on a scarecrow show to help the local agricultural society. The competition is being organised in the build-up to the annual St John's Chapel show. Villagers from Lanehead to Westgate are being invited
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New for old offer to home owners
OWNERS of houses scheduled for demolition could get new homes in compensation. Persimmon Homes wants to demolish and redevelop the St Andrew's Estate in Bishop Auckland, after 120 homes containing asbestos were condemned. That could end months of worry
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Summer craft workshops
A SERIES of events at the Summerhill country and activity park in Hartlepool has been organised for children. Some of the events on Monday, August 18, and Wednesday, August 27, are a sell-out but some places are available for the other activities on offer
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Town blossoming once more after poisoning
Two weeks ago it seemed as if Saltburn's efforts to win Britain in Bloom may have been thwarted by a mystery poisoner. But yesterday the community rallied in preparation for today's visit by competition judges. Alex Mott reports. THERE was more than a
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Awards for Dales dairy cheeses
A DALES dairy has proved it is the cream of the crop by scooping another run of awards at the world's largest cheese show. The Wensleydale Creamery took three trophies at the Nantwich International Show. The Hawes Dairy won the Les Lambert Trophy for
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Driving ahead with ideas for new fun bus
YOUNG people gathered yesterday to have their say on how to spend £50,000 for a new community bus during a consultation day at Belle Vue Leisure Centre, in Consett. There was a series of free DJ workshops by Dean and Ashley Johnson of Deerness, lessons
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Advisor attacks UK regulations
A LEADING independent financial advisor has hit out at strict regulations which he says are shackling the industry. Alok Dhanda was one of only a handful of people from the UK eligible to take part in the Million Dollar Round Table event in the US. Membership
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Mobility scheme fun day planned
A FUN day has been organised to launch a Shopmobility scheme for disabled and elderly people living in an east Cleveland town. The scheme in Redcar has received £90,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund and provides access to the town's shops by
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After 30 years, engines 'reunited'
TWO fire engines have been reunited after being pensioned off 120 miles apart. Former Sunderland fireman Dennis Barker bought his 1957 fire engine from Lancashire County Fire Brigade about 30 years ago. The NCB 100 engine was used by Blackburn fire brigade
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Young people to have say at city conference
HUNDREDS of North-East children will have the chance to speak out about issues affecting their lives at an event next week. More than 300 youngsters will take part in a two-day conference at Newcastle Civic Centre on Thursday and Friday next week. Those
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Kennel club camp for holiday
A DARLINGTON youngster has joined scores of other children from across the country at a national dog training event. Joanne Irving, 12, of Sadberge, will be at the Young Kennel Club Training Camp with her Labradors Golden Dewdrops and Noir Nectar, at
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Inquests adjourned
AN inquest was opened yesterday into the death in hospital of a retired contracts manager. Brian King, 67, of Humber Road, Thornaby, was admitted to the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, on June 24. He died last Friday. His daughter, Susan
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News in brief: Ramblers to walk coastline
Durham Ramblers will be walking on the Cleveland coastline on Sunday, August 17. A coach will take walkers to and from Durham. For further information call 0191-372 1664. PARK LARK: The next Lark in the Park takes place in Allensford Park, near Consett
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National Playday event attracts 1,500 children
AN estimated 1,500 youngsters took part in a National Playday event at Trimdon Grange yesterday sponsored by the County Durham Foundation. Attractions included fairground rides, art and crafts, balloon modelling, Punch and Judy, circus skills, disco dancing
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Motorists warned of show delays
POLICE in Sedgefield are warning drivers to take extra care when passing through the village on Saturday. An estimated 4,000 visitors are expected at the 150th Sedgefield Show, which will be held throughout the day. A temporary one-way system will be
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Pushing adhead with ride fir cancer charity
CYCLISTS are being urged to use pedal power to help the fight against cancer. Cancer Research UK's Cycle for Life will be held on Sunday, August 17, starting at Meadowfield Leisure Centre, near Durham City. Cycle for Life is a national series of 18 bike
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Opinion split over farm sales
A RIFT has developed between two of the leading rural watchdog groups over the growth of farm sales to people who have no intention of farming. The Countryside Alliance, which has been at the forefront of recent rural campaigns, says the trend could turn
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Birthday in focus at photo exhibition
A PHOTOGRAPHER who has captured the changing face of a North-East city over the past 50 years is celebrating his 90th birthday with an exhibition of his work. Newcastle City Library is hosting an exhibition of pictures by award-winning photographer Jimmy
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Engine owner's rally tribute to mother
RETIRED haulage contractor Maurice Jackson will this weekend proudly show off a 2.5 tonne traction engine which he named after his mother. The 1924 Lady Mary will be one of 200 entries at the 10th annual rally organised by the Kirkleatham Vehicle and
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moped fleet on road to success
THE Wheels to Work network which helps young people in rural areas get to work is expanding across North Yorkshire. Five more mopeds have been added to the fleet in the Ryedale area, where the scheme has been a resounding success. So far the initiative
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Comment: Getting caught up in the web
THE Internet is a wonderful invention which has revolutionised communication and education. In countless ways, it has changed the world. Sadly, it has also served to highlight the darker side of modern society. Two stories in The Northern Echo today combine
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Fresh lease of life for nuclear bunker
A RELIC of the Cold War is to be opened to visitors. Work will start next month on a bomb-proof bunker behind Shelley House in Acomb Road, York. When the project is complete owners English Heritage plans to open it for 20 days a year for groups on educational
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Man dies after viaduct leap
A MAN jumped to his death from a railway viaduct in an apparent suicide bid. The 48-year-old, who has not been named, fell more than 100ft from the bridge that carries the East Coast Main Line over North Road, in Durham City. The incident caused Sutton
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Experts target killer diseases
SPECIALIST teams will be set up across the region to fight the spread of deadly diseases and guard against biological terror attacks. The experts, who will be drawn from hospital staff, will be given the job of preventing and controlling illnesses ranging
