Archive
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Thornton wants to quit Cats
SUNDERLAND midfielder Sean Thornton will spell out his desire to leave Wearside later today when he submits a written transfer request to the club's board. The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international has become frustrated at his lack of first-team
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Gran At Large
WHENEVER I find myself in a shop that sells children's clothes I always cast an eye over the rails of garments for little boys, just in case I find a bargain in his size to send to my grandson. He likes getting new clothes. I know the colours that look
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Sprint favours Mystic
ONLY a fool would have their house on a horse in a 27-runner handicap, but that should not deter followers of Mystic Man indulging themselves with a modest each-way wager on Kevin Ryan's gelding for today's Ayr Silver Cup. Although Mystic Man has spent
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Boro In Europe: Gibson relishes chance to fulfil his Euro dream
Steve Gibson has overseen a massive turnaround in fortunes at Middlesbrough since taking control ten years ago. Tonight he sees his beloved club embark on their first UEFA Cup trail and Sports Writer Paul Fraser found out what the occasion means to the
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Next stage in arts training
TALENTED teenager Laurie Scarth has won a place at a leading school for performing arts. The 18-year-old, from Swinton near Malton, is taking a three-year BA (Hons) musical theatre degree at the Artsed College, in London. She started ballet and jazz classes
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Delegates hear case for green energy source
BUSINESS delegates from around the region gathered yesterday to hear the case for the development of renewable energy. Among the speakers on the first day of the two-day event was Stephen Tindale, executive director of Greenpeace. The event, held at Gisborough
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Comment from The Northern Echo: Doing nothing for their cause
THERE is some considerable public sympathy for hunt supporters. Even those who oppose hunting on principle are critical of the Government for devoting so much parliamentary time to the subject, at the expense of more pressing and urgent issues. A great
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Dancers net Lottery grant
ARABIC dancers on Teesside have been given money from the Lottery to work with dancers from Cairo. The Hartlepool-based Northern Arabic Dance Association was given £4,390 by Awards for All. The association works to promote Middle-Eastern music, dance
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Story time at library
THE Fat Controller visited Shildon Library to entertain youngsters with tales of Thomas the Tank Engine. The storytelling event, organised in conjunction with Surestart, had a railway theme as the library celebrates the forthcoming opening of the town's
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Awards for people who take a stand
AN MP is calling on people who stand up to bullies, thugs and vandals to come forward. Dari Taylor, MP for Stockton South, is backing the Taking A Stand Awards, which recognise people who have made an effort to tackle anti-social behaviour. In Thornaby
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Family's home plan rejected by authority
A MOORLAND family have been refused permission to build a home for their next generation. The Simpson family, whose roots in Gillamoor go back more than two centuries, told the North York Moors National Park Authority's planning committee that building
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Time scheme will be a credit to community
A SCHEME where people exchange skills instead of money will be launched in Richmondshire next month. One hour of help to another member of the Richmondshire Time Bank initiative will earn one time credit. This credit can then be spent on the services
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Teacher will be jive talking to farmers
A DANCE instructor is hoping to teach rough, tough Yorkshire Dales farmers how to jive. Ian Shakespeare, of York-based Got Rhythm Dance, will start teaching modern jive dancing in Wensleydale, next week. And the instructor is looking for men more at home
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Puppies pine for missing mother
THE owner of two runaway dogs yesterday appealed for public help in ensuring their safe return. The two cocker spaniels - Millie and Tess pictured below - have been missing from their home near Darlington since about 1pm on Tuesday. Catherine Fell said
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Bus back as police step up patrols
A BUS service that was withdrawn after being repeatedly pelted by stone throwing yobs is to be reinstated. Bus company Arriva took two of its evening services through the village of Thornley, east Durham, off the roads following a spate of incidents,
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Residents' aspirations to shape the future of parish
RESIDENTS are being encouraged to help shape the future of a Teesdale parish. Residents of Toft Hill and Etherley are being urged to fill in a questionnaire to formulate a parish plan. The plan aims to provide a blueprint for the future of Etherley parish
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Courses to tell if people are dyslexic
AN opportunity for adults who think they might be dyslexic has been launched in Newton Aycliffe. The Dyslexia Institute, Pioneering Care Centre and Learndirect are working together to offer a free course on computer skills. At the same time, an adult
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Revived group launches book
A WRITERS' group that almost folded two years ago has published its first anthology. Wordweavers, in South Moor, Stanley, was nearly disbanded due to a lack of interest. But an appeal for new members through The Northern Echo, led to its renaissance.
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16/09/04
HUNTING: THE action of the young man who was arrested during a pro-hunting demonstration outside Tony Blair's house at Trimdon on Friday is understandable. The Government is proposing to take away his job, home and way of life. The hunting community is
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Jail for glassing attack
A FATHER-OF-TWO who glassed a fellow pub customer during a row was jailed for 18 months yesterday. John Dodds needed 30 stitches to his left cheek and will be scarred for life after the attack by Mark Coyles, 28, on March 13. Newcastle Crown Court heard
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Pupils learn to sparkle in the spotlight at poet's workshop
PUPILS have been given a confidence boost by a poet, broadcaster, commentator and programme-maker. Children from Wheatlands Primary School, in Redcar, have been learning to stand up and read aloud to an audience with the help of Ian McMillan, who hosts
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Concert hits a chord with chapel fund
MUSIC lovers who attended a concert at an Army barracks helped to raise £1,020 for charity. The concert, at Alanbrooke Barracks, Topcliffe, near Thirsk, in May was organised by 40th Regiment Royal Artillery (Lowland Gunners). It featured the Royal Artillery
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GCSE Results: Durham Gilesgate Sports College
Passes at grades A*-G : Sallen 10; S Ayre 8; K Banner 7; C Barton 2; A Bayliss 3; S Bell 8; L Bellerby 7; J Bowes 8; Kaye Bradley 10; Keiran Bradley 10; V Bradley 1; J Clewes 9; N Coils 4; S Corfield 7; J Eldridge 3; J Ellis-Clark 7; S Fearon 1; C Gibson
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24-hour drinking prompts a rethink
NEW laws allowing the sale of alcohol 24 hours a day have led a licensing authority to consider changing its policy. Hartlepool Borough Council yesterday published its draft licensing policy, which deals with issues surrounding round-the-clock pub opening
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Factory approved at former pig farm
COUNCILLORS have given the go ahead for a former pig farm to be turned into a manufacturing plant for concrete products next to Lightwater Valley Theme Park, near Ripon. But they have imposed a string of conditions on the operation, including a legal
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Health efforts are praised
A GROUP of North-East academics, including the former chief medical officer, have praised the Government's health achievements, but cast doubt on whether they are sustainable. Durham University's report is a commentary on Labour's health policy four years
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Cabbie reported for 'using mobile'
A TAXI driver has been reported to a council for allegedly using a mobile phone while driving an off-duty police officer. The complainant said David Beaumont, 47, of Starmer Crescent, Darlington, became abusive when challenged. A letter to Darlington
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Pavement cafe licence renewed
A PUB in Darlington has had an application for a pavement cafe licence renewed despite opposition from a disabled group. The Boot and Shoe Hotel, on Church Row, was given the go ahead by Darlington Borough Council's licensing committee yesterday. The
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Leek show results
Results from the Leek Show at the RAFA Club in Crook are, Leeks: 1 Jeff Kelly, 2 Eric Johnson, 3 Malcolm Heslop. Members Flowers: 1 Malcolm Heslop. Open Flowers: 1 John Lonsdale. Carrots: 1 John Lonsdale. Onions: 1 John Egglestone. Tray of veg: 1 Eric
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Man claims he was not driving when car hit teen
A man who admits driving erratically around a town in a stolen car, claims he was not at the wheel when it struck and killed a teenager on playing fields. Dean English is accused of hitting 15-year-old Ian Gourley as he drove a Ford Escort over the Pony
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Speeding drivers caught at schools
POLICE and teachers have criticised speeding motorists after a clampdown outside schools. A recent enforcement campaign was held outside five schools in Richmond, North Yorkshire. Eight motorists were prosecuted by officers monitoring speeds during the
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Striker has a point to prove
FORMER Middlesbrough striker Alun Armstrong is relishing the prospect of resurrecting his career back in the North-East with Darlington. The 29-year-old signed a three-month deal with Quakers on Tuesday after being freed by Ipswich Town during the summer
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Another nice one, Cyril
IT is not just because of its first word - though the first word is mightily persuasive - that we are entranced by a poem forwarded by Tim Grimshaw in North Shields. Called "In Shabby Streets", it was written by CA Alington to mark Coronation Day 1937
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A Voice For The North: I'm backing Yes vote - Mallon
RAY Mallon came out fighting yesterday for a Yes vote for a regional assembly, and hinted that he would consider standing for it. The directly-elected mayor of Middlesbrough said the region needed strong leadership and, with no other option on the table
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Newcastle In Europe: O'Brien out to banish pain of penalty failure
ANDY O'Brien is hoping that another prolonged UEFA Cup campaign will finally banish the memories of last season's Champions League exit. More than a year has passed since the Magpies crashed out of Europe's premier club competition after a shock penalty
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Wonder mum Helen dies, 37
LOVING tributes have been paid to a mother-of-four whose courageous fight against four brain tumours proved an inspiration to all who knew her. Helen Wrangham died on Saturday surrounded by her family at their home in Yarm Road, Darlington. She was 37
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Yorkshire need a big finish
Yorkshire stand every chance of staying wedged third from bottom of the Division Two table unless they beat Glamorgan in their final Championship match of the season, which begins at Headingley today. Although Yorkshire cannot complain about missing out
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Ronnie sure boss will 'do it his way'
FORMER Israel international Ronnie Rosenthal has insisted that Graeme Souness is the man to "put things right" at St James' Park. Souness described Rosenthal as his "supersub" during his time in charge of Liverpool, often bringing the striker off the
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Pet owner spared jail for neglect
MAGISTRATES have told a man that he could have been banned from keeping animals for life after he was found guilty of abandoning his two pets. Roy Bell, 29, appeared at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court yesterday to be sentenced following a trial last
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Gun club noise causes problems for barn plans
AN application to convert a redundant barn next to a gun club into a house is likely to be refused. The plan to convert the barn, next to Mickleton Gun Club, in Teesdale, County Durham, was deferred from May to allow noise level readings and for Teesdale
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Merry dark
The Merry Widow wasn't quite the woman we thought she was according to singer Jan Hartley. She talks to Viv Hardwick about opera and Ayckbourn while theatre company boss Neal Foster looks at how he persuaded the stars to help him put children's shows
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Icons on show in Venice
THE plans for land surrounding Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium have been unveiled at an architectural exhibition in Venice. Plans by Alsop Architects for the Middlehaven development are being shown at the Venice Biennale International Architecture Exhibition
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Dog handlers on the ball with Euro funding
DOG handlers who have set up a successful sporting team have been awarded European funding to help establish their club and attract more members. Flyball involves dogs hitting a pedal to release a ball, which they catch in their mouths before scampering
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School sports facilities to benefit from £1m windfall
SPORTS and outdoor activities in Darlington schools are to benefit from a £1m Lottery windfall. The council's bid for funds to provide a range of multi-use games areas and play facilities have been given the go-ahead by officials from the New Opportunities
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Sacked Wembley staff get jobs back
NORTH-EAST workers were celebrating last night after they were reinstated to the Wembley Stadium project. Members of the GMB and Amicus unions voted in favour of a deal with Dutch contractor Hollandia in which they will be back at work within a fortnight
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Masonic hall is taking shape at museum
THE groups funding a £2.4m expansion at a North-East visitor attraction yesterday saw how their money was being spent. Officials from the Durham Freemasons group returned to Beamish Museum, near Stanley, County Durham, to check progress of a masonic hall
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Spanish bank closes in on Abbey
Spain's Banco Santander Central Hispano looked on course to secure Abbey National last night after two major developments in its battle for the bank. The takeover bid was given the go-ahead by the European Commission (EC) hours after HBoS announced it
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Townsfolk urged to back organ appeal
A MAMMOTH fundraising appeal to buy a new pipe organ for one of Darlington's oldest churches is set to be launched. The 124-year-old pipe organ at St Cuthbert's Church, in the town centre, has been deteriorating badly in recent times - and officials are
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Rival boss eyes up Boro job
BANIK OSTRAVA boss Frantisek Komnacky wants to put a damper on the party atmosphere at the Riverside Stadium tonight - to strengthen his case for a job on Teesside in the future. Komnacky arrived in the North-East yesterday with his squad, the Czech Republic
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Peaceful protest ends in bloody confrontation at Westminster
BLEEDING from the head, professional huntsman Simon Kenney warned Tony Blair to expect much more trouble if the Government goes ahead with its hunting ban. Mr Kenney, from County Durham, was among thousands of hunt supporters who converged on Westminster
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£1m school sports boost
SPORTS and outdoor activities in Darlington schools are set to benefit from a £1m lottery windfall. The council's bid for funds to provide a range of multi-use games areas and play facilities have been given the go-ahead by officials from the New Opportunities
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Victims of flu back campaign to have jab
FLU victims in a North-East town are backing an annual vaccination campaign by recalling the agony of a illness that is often played down by the public. Every year, Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT) strives to persuade people aged 65 and over in the
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Fans play vital part in Boro's Euro bow
WITH Middlesbrough just hours away from their European debut, manager Steve McClaren has called on the Teesside public to create an unforgettable atmosphere inside the Riverside Stadium. Boro are ready to embark on their maiden UEFA Cup campaign and Banik
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Rolling out blues and real brews
DOZENS of beer barrels were rolled into town this week ready for a popular annual festival of live music and real ale. Nearly 50 casks of traditional beer, from independent, micro and family breweries across Britain, arrived at the Arts Centre in Darlington
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Company stays close to home
ONE of the district's longest established employers has uprooted and moved to new purpose-built premises in a prime location - here in the Wear Valley. Innovative engineering firm MRB Schumag is a global leader in its field and could have relocated to
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Farm couple celebrate B&B award
A BED and breakfast set up 12 years ago by a farmer has won a national award. Lovesome Hill Farm, near Northallerton, North Yorkshire, has been named B&B of the Year in the North of Britain by Les Routiers, a network of independent establishments
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Councils awarded recycling grants
Councils in County Durham have been awarded £450,000 to encourage people to recycle more. The funding, for Darlington, Chester-le-Street, Durham City, Derwentside, Easington, Sedgefield, Wear Valley and Teesdale, will be used to employ eight people for
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One of the greatest shows on earth is here
THERE are few bigger or better sporting spectacles than the Ryder Cup. Played over three days, this is a rare occasion when two continents go head-to-head in team play rather than the every man for himself format normally associated with the professional
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Gran At Large: The sarong? Suits you, baby
WHENEVER I find myself in a shop that sells children's clothes I always cast an eye over the rails of garments for little boys, just in case I find a bargain in his size to send to my grandson. He likes getting new clothes. I know the colours that look
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Quakers unveil plan for centre of excellence
BUOYANT officials at Darlington Football Club last night revealed full details of a £300,000 scheme to create an educational centre of excellence to match those of leading North-East clubs. After months of behind-the-scenes work, the Quakers unveiled
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Srnicek warns Boro to be wary of Ostrava
MIDDLESBROUGH have been warned to expect a backlash from Banik Ostrava by former Newcastle United goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek. Srnicek started his career at Banik before moving to the Magpies in 1991 after less than a season at his hometown club. And the
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Bags of style
When I was a student I would rather have died than have a handbag. My friends and I used to stuff our purses with lipstick, keys and other essentials before heading out for a night on the town. Sportsbags were ok and even rucksacks were permissable but
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Patients evacuated due to fire
Patients had to be taken from their beds and evacuated from hospital after a fire was deliberately started on one of the wards. A male patient is said to have used a lighter to ignite cardboard bed pans and other supplies on a trolley at York Hospital
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In his old teacher's footsteps
AFTER two stints in the Antarctic, a geologist has returned to his home town. Dr Christopher Griffiths, 43, has taken a job at Stockton Sixth Form College, where he was once a student. His work in the Antarctic was as a researcher for the British Antarctic
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Advert artwork goes on display
RARE examples of art from the dawn of modern advertising have gone on show at a North-East museum. The posters on display at Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, portray a wild and decadent Paris at odds with life across the channel in Victorian
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All-clear for a Viewforth win
AYR'S three-day Gold Cup meeting gets under way this afternoon with an avalanche of runners, most notably the 27-strong cavalry charge for the A6 Handicap, in which Viewforth (2.40) is the each-way advice. On a point of handicapping, Viewforth would be
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Let's bring back wash day
THIS week I watched a young lad in the park clearly having a great time rolling down a grassy bank. His mother wasn't so pleased when she saw him. "You stupid, stupid boy," she shouted. "Look at you, covered in muck and grass stains. How can we take you
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No Ray of hope
Tough roles just got tougher for Ray Winstone as he plays a father looking for his missing daughter in TV drama She's Gone. Steve Pratt reports. WITH three daughters of his own, hard man actor Ray Winstone was well able to understand the drama at the
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Tom books in for lessons
Former seaman and author Tom Robson is riding on the crest of a wave after returning to college at the age of 73. Mr Robson, from Darlington, has found a new lease of life after learning how to use a computer. The Trimdon Grange-born former miner left
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Town gearing up for retail awards
SHOPS in Richmond are getting ready for the annual retail awards. Town manager Colin Grant said this year's competition would be bigger and better than ever. "We spoke to a lot of people in Richmond about how we might build on last year's success and
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Go-ahead on £5m housing for elderly
A £5m housing scheme for the elderly in Wensleydale has been approved. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has given the go-ahead for a development replacing the Sycamore Close sheltered housing complex and High Hall care home, in Bainbridge.
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Tom books lessons
Former seaman and author Tom Robson is riding on the crest of a wave after returning to college at the age of 73. Mr Robson, from Darlington, has found a new lease of life after learning how to use a computer. The Trimdon Grange-born former miner left
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Hunt for puppy's tormentors
POLICE hunting thugs who tortured a puppy were yesterday questioning people visiting a North-East seafront. The puppy had to be put down after being kicked and thrown about by youths on Sunday, near the BMX track in Temple Park, South Shields, South Tyneside
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Tributes to loved and respected headteacher
TRIBUTES have been paid to a respected and much-loved North-East teacher who has died aged 56. Martin Bennett had been teaching in County Durham since 1971 and for the past 13 years was headteacher of Woodham Burn Junior School, in Newton Aycliffe. Mr
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Roadshow will bring warm wishes
ENERGY experts are out to prove that living in the country does not mean householders have to be left out in the cold. As part of Energy Efficiency Month in October, a home energy roadshow will be touring with North Yorkshire's mobile library service.
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Spanish bank closes in on Abbey
Spain's Banco Santander Central Hispano looked on course to secure Abbey National last night after two major developments in its battle for the bank. The takeover bid was given the go-ahead by the European Commission (EC) hours after HBoS announced it
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Puppies pine for missing mother
THE owner of two runaway dogs yesterday appealed for public help in ensuring their safe return. The two cocker spaniels - Millie and Tess pictured below - have been missing from their home near Darlington since about 1pm on Tuesday. Catherine Fell said
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Disbanded pop group told: Reform, America loves you
TO four 30-something friends in the North-East, the rock 'n' roll world of Bruce Springsteen and Iggy Pop seemed a million miles away. That was until they took a phone call from the US. Within days, they were to supporting wild man Iggy Pop at a festival
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Festival caters to many tastes
A TOWN will be lifted by a music festival which will include classical concerts and flamenco nights. Bishop Auckland Music Festival will include street entertainment, concerts and music workshops in Wear Valley district schools. The festival, which runs
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Empty homes spruced up
EMPTY houses on the Grove Hill estate in Middlesbrough are being spruced up in a bid to deter criminal activity. The council's Streetscene service has teamed up with the probation service to tidy up the mess surrounding the 50 unoccupied homes. They will
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Travellers set up an illegal camp in city business park
TRAVELLERS have set up an illegal camp in a car park saying official sites are full. Thirteen caravans moved on to the privately-owned land on the Belmont Business Park, in Durham City, earlier this week. It is believed the 50 travellers had been moved
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Sculpture marks big improvement
THE unveiling of a stone sculpture has completed a £73,500 improvement scheme in Coundon. The improvements have been carried out at a prominent corner site on the junction of Collingwood Street and Victoria Lane, known locally as Fan Cottage Corner. Improvements
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Post office may be forced to close after vandal attacks
A POST office that has been targeted by vandals may have to close because its owner cannot afford to keep up repairs. Eston Post Office, in High Street, Eston, has been the target of young vandals and burglars over the past 12 months. At the weekend,
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Dog handlers on the ball with Euro funding
DOG handlers who have set up a successful sporting team have been awarded European funding to help establish their club and attract more members. Flyball involves dogs hitting a pedal to release a ball, which they catch in their mouths before scampering
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Round-the-clock GP cover dooms Saturday surgeries
HEALTH bosses have agreed measures to ensure patients have access to round-the-clock cover from GPs across North Yorkshire. However, it will mean Saturday morning surgeries offered by some doctors' practices will cease after Oct- ober 1. The four primary
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Diamond pair celebrate
A COUPLE from Darlington are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary today. It was a case of love between the ledgers when Harry and Hilda Rogers started an office romance days after the outbreak of the Second World War. Mr Rogers left the treasurer's
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Souness sets his sights high
GRAEME Souness has promised to re-establish the "Newcastle brand" at the pinnacle of European competition as he prepares to take control of his first game as Magpies boss this evening. Souness has made ending United's 35-year trophy drought his number
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Going for a spin with Campbell
What Makes Alastair Campbell Run? (five); Nip/Tuck (C4): Spin used to be something you did with records. That was BC - Before Campbell. So any documentary about Alastair Campbell, the master of spin in the Blair government, must be viewed with a certain
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Tributes paid to headteacher
TRIBUTES have been paid to a teacher who has died aged 56. Martin Bennett, of Lanchester, had been teaching in County Durham since 1971. For the past 13 years he was headteacher of Woodham Burn Junior School, Newton Aycliffe. Mr Bennett, who died two
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Sums for three-council idea don't add up
THE Government admitted last night that it had greatly under-estimated the costs of creating three new unitary authorities under a possible shake-up of local government. People are being asked to vote on whether to replace the two-tier system of councils
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Anger over mast plan
PEOPLE living in part of Darlington are furious at plans to site a telecommunications mast near their homes. Mobile phone company 02 has approached the borough council with a proposal for a 15-metre mast near Mowden shopping parade. No planning application
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Court told man accused of fatal crash admitted incident
A MAN accused of driving a car that struck and killed a teenager on a playing field confessed to his girlfriend he did it, a court heard. Dean English, 22, is alleged to have been driving a stolen Ford Escort which hit 15-year-old Ian Gourley on the Pony
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Hunting's last stand as MPs face invasion
A FORGED letter allowed demonstrators to storm the Commons chamber and overshadow a vote which brought fox hunting to the brink of an outright ban, MPs were told last night. The five pro-hunt protestors, who threatened ministers at the Dispatch Box in
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TV review
What Makes Alastair Campbell Run? (five) Nip/Tuck (C4) Spin used to be something you did with records. That was BC - Before Campbell. So any documentary about Alastair Campbell, the master of spin in the Blair government, must be viewed with a certain
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On his Todd
SPACE is at a premium in Soapland's very own Trollops Hall of Fame but space must be made for Sarah Platt, the Weatherfield girl who just can't say 'No'. Next week she surpasses herself in Coronation Street (ITV1). She's already been a gymslip mother
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Show organiser to hand over reins
OFFICIALS of the 163rd annual Stanhope show breathed a sigh of relief as gales and heavy rain forecast for last weekend failed to materialise. Show secretary Mike Robson said attendances over the two days were about average. "We are well satisfied with
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Hartlepool by-election 2004: Fourteen to contest vacant parliament seat
TWO candidates joined the contest to replace Peter Mandelson on the last day of nominations for the Hartlepool by-election yesterday, bringing the number to 14. Offshore off-licence businessman Philip Berriman and London-based independent Ronnie Carroll
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Man posed as paramedic given psychiatric assessment
A Walter Mitty conman obsessed with the emergency services launched his own ambulance service and transported patients dressed as a paramedic. Audacious Terence Cooper has an astonishing history of impersonating police officers, donning uniform, checking
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When there's more at stake than goals
Tonight sees Newcastle United begin their campaign for European honours, but for their opponents, there's considerabley more at stake than glory. Scott Wilson reports. ABED Abu Salakh's dream was to watch his son, Walid, play football on some of the biggest
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Who's batty?
Tom Baker, arguably the greatest-ever TV Doctor Who, is about to return to BBC1 as Glenbogle's oldest black sheep Donald MacDonald. Steve Pratt reports on why Baker enjoys being batty and considers his efforts at kilt-wearing. FORMER Dr Who Tom Baker
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Bid to halt young repeat offenders
FORMER detective Ray Mallon yesterday helped to launch a programme aimed at keeping the region's young offenders from making repeat visits to prison. The Mayor of Middlesbrough was at Durham City's Gala Theatre to kickstart the campaign, Smart Justice
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300 jobs saved by £3.6m buyout
MORE than 300 factory jobs have been saved in the region following the £3.6m buyout of a door manufacturer. Home Doors GB, in Peterlee, County Durham, is a subsidiary of West Midlands-based BHD, which was placed in the hands of receivers from KPMG last
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Pastry maker rises by 15%
MEAT and pastry maker Canterbury Foods saw its shares leap 15 per cent after it reported sharply reduced losses and a pick-up in summer sales. The Hull-based group's stock gained 4p to 29p after it said pre-tax losses in the six months to June 30 narrowed
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Old boys crank up the heat
STARS of Middlesbrough's past have united to help raise the excitement ahead of tonight's ground-breaking UEFA Cup tie against Banik Ostrava. With Boro's European debut rapidly approaching, three former heroes have given their backing to Steve McClaren's
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Victims of flu back campaign to have jab
FLU victims in a North-East town are backing an annual vaccination campaign by recalling the agony of a illness that is often played down by the public. Every year, Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT) strives to persuade people aged 65 and over in the
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Date
The sarong? Suits you, baby
WHENEVER I find myself in a shop that sells children's clothes I always cast an eye over the rails of garments for little boys, just in case I find a bargain in his size to send to my grandson. He likes getting new clothes. I know the colours that look
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Date
All-clear for a Viewforth win
AYR'S three-day Gold Cup meeting gets under way this afternoon with an avalanche of runners, most notably the 27-strong cavalry charge for the A6 Handicap, in which Viewforth (2.40) is the each-way advice. On a point of handicapping, Viewforth would be
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Penny plain customers plan for all seasons
WOMENSWEAR retailer Penny Plain weathered last month's storm on the High Street to announce record figures. Despite one of the wettest Augusts on record, which led to a washout in the high street, Penny Plain, based in the region, reported a 60 per cent
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Radio station live on TV
THE owner of talkSPORT radio has revealed plans to broadcast the station's commentaries and phone-ins live on television. The Wireless Group (TWG) will put video cameras inside talkSPORT's studios and broadcast the output on Sky television. TalkSPORT,
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Dog owners gathering for annual N-E show
THOUSANDS of Europe's best canines will gather for the North-East's biggest dog show this weekend. The 36th annual Darlington Championship Dog Show will take place in South Park, with more than 9,000 pets ready to compete. The event attracts dog owners
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Number of benefit claimants falls to its lowest since 1975
UNEMPLOYMENT has fallen by 16,000, with the number of people claiming jobless benefits also falling, according to the latest figures. Data from the Office for National Statistics said the fall took the total to 1.41 million. The unemployment rate for
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Chamber of horrors for MPs as security is breached again
The Northern Echo's parliamentary correspondent Robert Merrick saw the extraordinary scenes as pro-hunt demonstrators invaded the Commons chamber. WHEN Tony Blair promised a Big Conversation with voters, he presumably did not mean for it to happen on
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Railway art unveiled
A MUSEUM has unveiled a £90,000 piece of artwork that can be operated by text messages sent from all over the world. The new exhibit was unveiled at Locomotion: National Railway Museum in Shildon on Monday. The Light Engine by artist Peter Freeman is
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Julius Caesar. RSC at Hambleton Leisure Centre, Northallerton
This was the first performance of David Farr's new production of Shakespeare's account of the conspiracy to murder Julius Caesar. It's amazing how the RSC can transform a sports hall into theatre in the round in just one day, and the lack of conventional
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Hunting's last stand as MPs face invasion
A FORGED letter allowed demonstrators to storm the Commons chamber and overshadow a vote that brought fox hunting to the brink of an outright ban, MPs were told last night. The five pro-hunt protestors, who threatened ministers at the Dispatch Box in
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It's come to this - people are full of anger
HUNT supporters from across the North-East and North Yorkshire gave a mixed reaction last night to yesterday's scenes outside and inside the Houses of Parliament. The Countryside Alliance estimated that about 2,000 people from the region travelled to
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Man tries to snatch boy
Police are appealing for the public's help after a man tried to snatch a 12-year-old boy. The man pulled up his car alongside the youngster as he walked along Overdale Road, Middlesbrough, at around 8.15pm on Wednesday night. The motorist asked the child
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Woodgate may be asked for help over car
POLICE could seek the help of England football star Jonathan Woodgate for information about one of his former cars which was subsequently used by a drug dealer. Heroin dealer Andrew Parker cruised the streets in a silver £30,000 BMW convertible bearing
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Blair issues Iraq service medals
PRIME Minister Tony Blair has presented medals to Territorial Army soldiers in recognition of their service in Iraq. Mr Blair attended a private ceremony at the Aycliffe Armoury, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, home of the 102 Battalion Royal Electrical
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Top Ten To Rent
UK DVD/VIDEO RENTAL: 1 (-) 50 First Dates 2 (-) 21 Grams 3 (2) Shaun Of The Dead 4 (7) Scooby Doo 2 5 (1) The Passion Of The Christ 6 (4) Hidalgo 7 (3) Kill Bill - Vol 2 8 (6) Gothika 9 (5) Our House 10 (-) Wonderland Published: 16/09/2004
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Strike duo make it a night to remember
MIDDLESBROUGH'S new striking heroes combined to make an historic occasion at the Riverside a memorable one for the jubilant Teesside faithful last night. And now, after summer signings Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Mark Viduka grabbed three goals between
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Wrong goal right Code
Goal! was the film likely to put Newcastle United on the film map, but director Michael Winterbottom pulled out of the project and turned to Code 46 starring Tim Robbins and Samantha Morton. He explains his reasons to Steve Pratt and discusses even more
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Arts centre approval to screen films
DARLINGTON Arts Centre has been given permission to show films that do not have a current rating from the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). It was given approval by the licensing committee of Darlington Borough Council yesterday. It will show
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Leading anglers to compete for title on North river
A COMPETITION to find England's best river fisherman will be held in the North-East for the first time tomorrow, where it could put a new angling centre on the international map. Thirty-two of the country's leading anglers will compete in this year's
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Indy cinema screening
A LARGE inflatable cinema screen will be set up in a North-East park tomorrow. The 17-metre by 12-metre screen in Leazes Park, Newcastle, will show Raiders of the Lost Ark. On Saturday, it will be used for a screening of Moulin Rouge. Both events, organised
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John North: Another nice once Cyril
Poetically intrigued, the column discovers a patrician Dean of Durham, who far from being a one-poem wonder, was the author of hymns and detective stories and reputedly the first cricket novel. IT is not just because of its first word - though the first
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Low-budget ironstone film a hit
MORE than 4,000 people have now seen a small-scale, low-budget film about a North-East industry. A Century in Stone, about Teesside ironstone miners, has been a surprise hit. The film, by Craig Hornby, has been showing at the UGC cinema, in Middlesbrough
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Club granted music licence
FUNCTION rooms at Darlington Football Club were granted public musical entertainment licences yesterday, despite objections from nearby residents. Darlington Borough Council's licensing committee approved applications for the Platinum Suite, the Ron Greener
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Former pupil Rob will open extension
A SCHOOL extension will be officially opened by a famous former pupil. Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Rob Andrew will visit Barton Primary School, in North Yorkshire, next month. Work has been completed on the new hall, classroom, kitchen and offices
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25-member restraint on assembly's powers revealed
to prevent it becoming too powerful, any regional assembly elected in the North-East will have only 25 members, a Government minister admitted yesterday. Nick Raynsford surprised MPs when he revealed that the assembly would be kept small so it could not
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Beware bite of the underdog
NEWCASTLE United are red-hot favourites to win tonight's UEFA Cup first-round first-leg tie against Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin at St James' Park and progress to the group stage of the competition. But any thoughts among the United players of an easy passage
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Lake to reveal its secrets
A MYSTERY that has baffled people for 25 years could be solved in the next few weeks. Nobody knows what happened to a brass statue of a steam plough, erected in South Park in honour of its inventor, Darlington-born John Fowler. It was donated to the park
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Wright backs himself in the scoring charts
STEPHEN Wright didn't just break a year-long scoring duck against Nottingham Forest this week - he moved a third of the way towards silencing his mates. The Sunderland right-back had not hit the back of the net since last August before he headed home
