Archive
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Waste firm flouts conditions, say residents
A councillor who helped wage a campaign to stop a rubbish depot being built on his doorstep fears his predictions for the site are coming true. Stainton and Streatlam parish councillor, Tony Cooke, was among members of Stainton Grove Action Group who
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Fed-up referee abandons cup final
A CUP final referee was so sick of the fouls, fighting and four letter words from players that he blew his whistle and shouted: "Everybody off." John Morton, who was in charge of the South Durham Bowl final at Shildon, County Durham, decided that enough
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Chicks get own no-fly zone
PILOTS are being reminded that aircraft and birds do not mix as a new measure is introduced to protect fledglings. Crews are being instructed to fly higher to help ensure a noise exclusion zone around Thorp Perrow Arboretum, between Bedale and Masham,
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Bremner throws weight behind Blair's opponent
TV comedian Rory Bremner last night threw his weight behind an anti-war campaigner to oust Tony Blair from his Sedgefield seat. Mr Bremner, who has made his name impersonating the Prime Minister, became the latest celebrity to support Reg Keys, the independent
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Mick's men good enough for top flight
MICK McCarthy last night delivered a ringing endorsement of his promotion winners by claiming they were good enough to prosper in the Premiership. Sunderland will clinch the Championship title if they claim all three points at West Ham this evening and
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Beware of bureaucrats
BEWARE of bureaucrats for they shall inherit the earth. It's an earth increasingly bound by red tape, and far from providing the perfect escape sport is becoming ensnared in the web. Two examples have bowled nasty bouncers at cricket this week. First
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Bell strikes twice to propel Elders towards victory
Northallerton Elders 3 Skipton Building Society 0 DIVISION two leaders Skipton suffered a blow to their title hopes with a lacklustre performance at Northallerton Elders last Sunday, writes Ricky Butler. The Leyburn-based side knew a point would have
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'My son's killer has got off lightly'
THE father of a man who died a year-and-a-half after he was attacked said his killer has "got off lightly" with a three-year prison sentence. Ernest Ratcliffe, 73, of Shaw Gardens, Wardley, Gateshead, spoke after Keith Stephenson was jailed for the attack
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TV feature for caravan expert
A NORTH caravan expert has been brought in by TV producers to give his professional opinion on the latest models. Matthew Kinsell, of Catterick Caravans, Brompton-on-Swale, North Yorkshire, was asked by the Discovery Home and Leisure Channel to review
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Decision close on sale of surplus Feethams land
THE trust that owns the derelict former Feethams home of Darlington Football Club last night took a big step towards disposing of the ground. Darlington Feethams Cricket Field Trust has agreed to seek professional advice on how to secure the best possible
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Trials rider Robert, nine, tells PM: 'Save my sport'
A NINE-YEAR-OLD motorcycle trials rider from Hurworth has written to Prime Minister Tony Blair asking him to save his sport. Robert Waite, a Hurworth Primary School pupil, sent the letter after Saturday's Richmond Motor Club youth trial, at Marske, near
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Liverpool will be focused, predicts Zenden
BOLO Zenden does not believe Liverpool will have one eye on their European Champions League semi-final when Middlesbrough visit Anfield tomorrow. The skilful midfielder played his part in Boro's battling 0-0 draw with Newcastle at St James' Park on Wednesday
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Warning to gardeners - could your clematis be killing you?
THE campaign to prevent carbon monoxide deaths has taken a new turn with a warning to keep climbing plants away from air vents and flues. Garden centres throughout the country are to back the move with posters and on-the- spot advice. British Gas experts
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Businesses won't travel, so advice goes mobile
A NEW mobile unit is taking to the roads of County Durham offering doorstep advice and support to businesses. The investment by Business Link County Durham follows research showing people were not willing to travel far to receive such help. "County Durham
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We owed it to sacked staff, declares Breen
A SELF-EFFACING Gary Breen has dedicated Sunderland's promotion success to the scores of staff who were made redundant when the club crashed out of the Premiership. The Black Cats skipper will lead his side into action at Upton Park tonight in search
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Drivers urged to heed signs
MOTORISTS in a market town are being warned they must adhere to new traffic regulations or risk being fined. The warning comes from police following the major redevelopment that has taken place in Chester-le-Street, particularly on Front Street, during
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Tributes to Dicky, the wonder winger of '56
WITH ten seconds to go and the home crowd despairing of victory in a crucial cup game, a fiery young winger scored a wonder goal that is still being talked about half a century later. West Auckland winger Dicky Briggs defied a blustery wind to float a
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Musical performance to raise money for charity
TOP performers are taking to the stage to help raise money for two local charities. Ex-Boro star George Smith has organised the event to raise funds for the Willie Maddren Trust for Motor Neurone Research, in memory of his former colleague, who died aged
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Wellock's World: Beware of bureaucrats
BEWARE of bureaucrats for they shall inherit the earth. It's an earth increasingly bound by red tape, and far from providing the perfect escape sport is becoming ensnared in the web. Two examples have bowled nasty bouncers at cricket this week. First
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Stitches in time to create heirloom
A team of rural craft enthusiasts who are creating a quilt believe it will still be causing interest in 100 years' time. It is being made by members of the Craft Works group, who live in Teesdale and meet weekly in Barnard Castle. The quilt, featuring
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Drugs stash is found hidden close to school
RELIEVED teachers told last night how tragedy had been narrowly averted after the discovery of drugs hidden close to a school. Cleveland Police were alerted after £15,000-worth of what is believed to be crack cocaine was found in undergrowth. Officers
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Art group's work now on display
AN exhibition of more than 50 paintings produced by an art group has gone on show at Kirkleatham Museum. The Phoenix Project art group's handiwork, Painting For Fun, can be found at the Bellamy Pavilion in the grounds of the Redcar museum. The group is
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Wijnhard stays cool as play-offs race hots up
DARLINGTON go into their final two games of the League Two season with their quest to reach the promotion play-offs still very much in the balance despite last Saturday's 2-0 home win over Rushden and Diamonds. Quakers are seventh, two points ahead of
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Mentally ill man killed partner after release from hospital
A mentally ill man who was allowed to diagnose himself in hospital stabbed his former partner to death just hours after being discharged. Craig Sexton, 31, stabbed Lynda Lovatt more than 40 times and then slit her throat after turning up at her home in
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Tyne ferry contract goes to the South
A FERRY that will work the River Tyne is to be built on the South coast - despite a North-East yard bidding for the work. Portsmouth company VT Halmatic won the contract after submitting a lower tender than A&P Tyne, of Hebburn, South Tyneside. Davey
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Memorial pavilion seeking more sporting use
THE family of a young sportsman who died ten years ago are appealing for people to make use of a sports pavilion built in his memory. Jamie Hill collapsed near his home in Osmotherley, North Yorkshire, in 1995, just days after his 23rd birthday. Doctors
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Council decision to move head office will remain as agreed
AN ATTEMPT to get Richmondshire councillors to return to basics in their thinking about new offices was heavily defeated on Tuesday. The district council has caused controversy by proposing to sell off the Station Road and York Square car parks, as well
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Double delight for Psyche
DESIGNER fashion store Psyche has been hailed as the shop of the future, after winning two awards. The outlet, in Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, won the regional and national categories of the Top 100 Doors awards, run by men's magazine FHM. Judges described
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Punch ready for another round of takeovers
PUBS group Punch Taverns has reported record profits just over a year after its £1.2bn acquisition of Hartlepool-based Pubmaster. Punch, which has nearly 500 sites across the North-East, said it had £100m to fund acquisitions of independent pubs. It did
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Shake-up leads to 50 job losses
DAIRY Farmers of Britain (DFB) is to make 50 creamery workers redundant. Malcolm Smith, chief executive of DFB, yesterday announced plans to restructure Whitby Creamery, in North Yorkshire. Under the plans, the creamery will concentrate on milk and cottage
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Bird breeder hits heights to stage protest
A PARROT breeder has mounted a protest on a 30ft grandfather clock in a bid to get his confiscated birds returned. Harry Sissen, 66, has pitched a tent on the giant wooden clock that he built in a field next to his home in East Cowton. He plans to spend
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Group aims to promote culture and creativity
PLANS have been unveiled for a group that aims to put culture and creative activity at the heart of everyday life. The group, being set up as part of Chester-le-Street's Local Strategic Partnership, will examine ways to pool resources to help to raise
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Burtons Bytes: One for booting into the bin
FIFA STREET, Publisher: EA Sports Big, Formats: Xbox and PS2. Price: £39.99, Family friendly? 3+: 'YOU bought what?" I couldn't believe my ears. A mate of mine had splashed out on an Xbox. As part of the deal he could choose a free game. What did he select
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Fuelling prejudice to win votes
There is an unedifying side to a minority of the public and, unfortunately, it is a prejudice that is too often played upon by opportunist politicians desperate for votes. I've recently concluded a tour of local community councils and other groups and
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Special sales
BROUGHTON(Cumbria). - Tues of last week. Fwd: 620 store cattle for April Fair show & sale. Judge: F Tower, Bentham. Champion: L Farish, Leslands, Barrow, Lim X bullock, £670 to JS&JO Dodd, West View; res: S Bower, Burney End, a Lim X hfr, £600
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Landmark date for heart swap teenager Kaylee
A BABY who became Britain's youngest successful heart transplant patient celebrated her 18th birthday yesterday. Kaylee Davidson, of Washington, Tyne and Wear, made medical history in 1987 when, aged only five months, she underwent a life-saving heart
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Soccer fans' party sells out
A POST match promotion party to be staged by the Chester-le-Street and District branch of the Sunderland AFC Supporters' Association is a sell-out. Branch members are staging a karaoke event on their return to Relton Terrace Workingmen's Club in Chester-le-Street
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Expanding to serve the world from Richmond
A COMPUTER software design company has taken on extra office space in Richmond to house its expanding workforce. Although it moved to the converted school in Zetland Square, Dundas Street, only six months ago, thecitysecret, which designs software for
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Mother left two children in house -'unfit for a dog'
A mother who left her two children in conditions "unfit for a dog" while spending time with her lover was spared jail yesterday for the sake of her new baby. The woman, who cannot be named, left the boy and girl, both under 11, in a house found to be
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Students get into election mood
Students in Darlington have been battling it out for the role of Student Association president. Eight candidates stood for election to the post at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington. Posters adorned the college spelling out the candidates
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The life and strange death of a porn star
The Dark Side Of Porn; Death Of A Porn Star (C4): THE life and death of Lolo Ferrari, who had the dubious distinction of having the biggest breasts in the world, is an unedifying mix of "fame, prostitution, hard core pornography and possibly murder".
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Surgery not just for boys
GIRLS at a North-East school were visited by a doctor this week, in a bid to show them surgery is not just for boys. The sixth form pupils at Polam Hall School in Darlington were visited by Helen Richardson, an ear, nose and throat surgeon. She gave students
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Creating a green on your doorstep
THE second phase of a £315,000 project to develop a large green area in Darlington is due to start next week. The stretch of land running the length of Holgate Moor is being transformed into a facility to benefit residents young and old. The first stage
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Village VE day party
A TEESDALE village is planning a series of festivities to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Members of the Middleton-in-Teesdale branch of the British Legion are organising VE day celebrations on Saturday, May 7. The celebrations
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Leader will step down
THE leader of Wear Valley District Council is standing down next week after losing the support of the majority of her Labour colleagues, The Northern Echo understands. Councillor Olive Brown is expected to announce her decision at the council's annual
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First stage in housing transfer
THE first stage of the formal process of transferring Teesdale council's housing stock has been agreed. Teesdale District Council yesterday unanimously approved a document which is to be sent out to all council house tenants and details the proposals.
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Station reopens
A HERITAGE railway station is reopening to tourists this weekend despite no trains running on the troubled line. Volunteers are manning Stanhope Station, the main station on the Weardale Railway line, in County Durham, to open it to visitors across the
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Crime declines in latest figures
DRUNKEN yobs are responsible for creating the only blip in the latest crime figures for Cleveland, according to police bosses. With the latest crime figures for the force possibly putting it amongst the most elite in the country, officers are now turning
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Philanthropist's story released
AN autobiography of a well-known businessman and charity founder has been launched. Wilf Ward OBE, of Sherburn, near Malton, died at the age of 88 in January, but before his death had completed his book, The Wilf Ward Story. Mr Ward, who was born in Shipley
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Landmark date for heart swap teenager Kaylee
A BABY who became Britain's youngest successful heart transplant patient celebrated her 18th birthday yesterday. Kaylee Davidson, of Washington, Tyne and Wear, made medical history in 1987 when, aged only five months, she underwent a life-saving heart
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Celebration of a refurbished community centre
A NEW-LOOK community centre has celebrated the completion of nearly £500,000 worth of improvements with an open day. The Charlbury Road centre, in Middlesbrough, now boasts up-to-date facilities to cater for local residents of all ages. A purpose-built
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Banned motorcyclist may face jail
BIKER Neil Loten, who was banned from the roads after being clocked at 125mph, lied so he could get motor insurance less than a fortnight later, a court was told. And within four months, Loten, 39, was spotted at the wheel of a van on the Harrogate and
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Death of teenager leads to advice
POLICE in Teesdale are organising a drugs awareness event following the death of a local teenager after a party last month. The event arises from public concerns about drugs in the community following the death of John Winter, 15, of Barnard Castle. John
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Schools raise £30,000 to aid victims of Indian tsunami
CHILDREN have collected enough money to build a new school in tsunami ravaged India. Pupils and teachers from schools in North Yorkshire, moved by the plight of victims of the Boxing Day disaster, have raised almost £30,000. The total is more than enough
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Festival in Dales to mark its 25th year
THE programme for an annual music festival in the Yorkshire Dales has been announce. The Swaledale Festival, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is described as the most remote festival in England. Organisers say artists performing chamber
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Scrambler idea is a winner
A CONTEST to name a popular new piece of sports centre play equipment has been won by a keen five-year-old. A new inflatable play-piece has become a favourite among younger visitors to the city council-run Sherburn Sports Centre, near Durham. The colourful
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Pupils planting junipers in park
EIGHTY children attending primary schools in the North York Moors National Park area are planting dozens of rare juniper trees they have grown from seed. Youngsters from Castleton, Lealholm, Glaisdale, Lythe, Botton and Rosedale primary schools are joined
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On cutting edge of medical career
GIRLS at a North-East school were visited by a doctor this week, to show them surgery is not just for boys. The sixth form pupils at Polam Hall School, in Darlington, were visited by Helen Richardson, an ear, nose and throat surgeon. She gave the students
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£5.5m share issue will put Tanfield in the driving seat
A manufacturer of electric vehicles is raising £5.5m to fund two deals to help it expand. The Tanfield Group, which owns Smiths Electric Vehicles (SEV), is close to a deal with a well-known brand in the automotive industry. It is also poised to sign a
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Visitor attraction celebrates first year
A TEESDALE visitor attraction celebrates its first anniversary next week, having welcomed thousands of visitors through its doors. Meet the Middletons, in Middleton-in-Teesdale, opened to the public on May 1, last year. Visitors have come from as close
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Pair jailed for sex attacks on children
A FORMER Boys' Brigade leader was jailed last week after admitting a string of child sex attacks and internet pornography offences. David Bell and his co-accused Jonathan Scarcliffe admitted 26 charges earlier this year, ranging from making, taking, possessing
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Charity game to remember cancer victim
AN annual charity football tournament to remember a woman who died from cancer will take place tomorrow. Hundreds of supporters are expected to visit the Welfare Football Ground at Langley Park from 11am for the games in memory of Mary Hayton. Ms Hayton
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ShopTalk: Are you heading in the right direction?
Spring and summer is the time most of us travel to see family and friends at the other end of the country. But do you know the way? We recommend the best route-finders. SO are you off somewhere nice this bank holiday? More importantly, do you know how
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Company managers joining schools education scheme
A DERWENTSIDE company is joining a scheme to help young people find out more about work. The Explorer Group, in Consett, manufactures Elddis, Compass and Buccaneer caravans and motorhomes, Eight managers will visit local schools to inspire and encourage
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£20m plan to develop riverside
A VISION for the future development of a prime riverside city centre site will go on public display next month. Architects Howarth Litchfield Partnership have put forward proposals to revive a stretch of the River Wear banks, in Freeman's Place, Durham
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Fuelling prejudice to win votes
There is an unedifying side to a minority of the public and, unfortunately, it is a prejudice that is too often played upon by opportunist politicians desperate for votes. I've recently concluded a tour of local community councils and other groups and
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Tyne ferry contract goes to the South
A FERRY that will work the River Tyne is to be built on the South coast - despite a North-East yard bidding for the work. Portsmouth company VT Halmatic won the contract after submitting a lower tender than A&P Tyne, of Hebburn, South Tyneside. Davey
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Warning over bogus callers
HOUSEHOLDERS have been given a fresh warning by Yorkshire Water about bogus doorstep callers. The company is embarking on a five-year £1.5bn programme of work and believes criminals could see this as an ideal opportunity to gain access to homes and businesses
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Police tackle increase in violent crime
Police have vowed to tackle an alarming rise in violent crime. Despite crime in Richmondshire falling by two per cent overall in the last 12 months, new figures reveal violent crime has risen by 43 per cent during the same period. Officers suggest the
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Ban imposed on ex-tenant
A MAN who has terrorised neighbours on a Loftus estate has been banned from the area. David Puckrin, formerly of Sycamore Walk, Loftus, cannot enter the Westfield Estate for two years. Coast and Country Housing brought an anti-social behaviour injunction
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Solicitor exposes mistake on council's parking ticket
THE legality of a council's parking fine tickets is being checked after a solicitor spotted vital missing words. Simon Catterall pointed out the error to Darlington Council and had his £30 fine waived - now the question is how many other motorists may
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Service to aid people with head injuries
A DROP-IN hospital service has been launched to help people cope with head injuries. South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust and Headway Teesside have got together to organise a drop-in session on the first Wednesday of every month, the next one being May 4, from
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Outdoor plays set for the summer
AN outdoor theatre programme in picturesque surroundings has been announced for the summer. Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has unveiled five performances across the borough. * Tuesday, June 28, Chapter House Theatre Company presents Romeo and Juliet
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New advice offers little hope to trials enthusiasts
ADVICE has been issued to farmers who fear that allowing motorsports on their land will jeopardise payments under the single farm scheme. But sports enthusiasts say the guidance offers little hope for hundreds of events in rural areas. The Country Land
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Green scheme is a hit
PEOPLE are mucking in to ensure the success of a recycling scheme. People in Redcar and New Marske have provided nearly 140 tonnes of recyclable green garden waste for composting two weeks after the launch of a recycling scheme. Collection rates in Saltburn
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Locals wary of White Horse victory
CAMPAIGNERS who waged a battle to save a landmark North-East pub from demolition were yesterday celebrating the scrapping of the controversial proposals. But they fear that the future of the White Horse Pub and Hotel, at the north end of Darlington, could
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Flats scheme set for OK despite more objections
AMENDED plans for a flats scheme in Guisborough have caused further controversy and 60 letters of objection. Officers are recommending that Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's planning committee approves the plans for 12 flats on land off Enfield Chase
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Switch to fortnightly bins collection is defended by need to cut costs
A BAN on "side-waste" bags being added to wheelie bins is coming to Redcar and Cleveland. Coun Bob Stanway, cabinet member for environmental improvement, made this clear at the annual assembly of Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council, when 16
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Beautiful Thing. The Studio, York Theatre Royal
PILOT Theatre's touring revival of its earlier production of Jonathan Harvey's urban fairytale arrives with a new setting and a fresh cast since last seen in York. And it is, in many respects, even better than the original. Director Marcus Romer has shifted
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Murray half-century saves the day for champions
DARLINGTON RA are delighted to have signed left-arm spinner Amol Dhindsa, who has played 17 one-day internationals for India. He played in the Foster's ECB North East Regional Premier League with Gateshead Fell last season and made an immediate impact
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Rory backs challenger to make a big impression
"HI, it's Tony here, please vote for me," says the voice at the other end of the phone. But, of course, it isn't. It is TV impressionist Rory Bremner, and he doesn't believe the people of Sedgefield should be voting for Tony Blair. Yesterday, Mr Bremner
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Manners more important than being PC
AS politics are dominating our lives at the moment, it seems an opportune moment to ask why we use the term politically correct for all the synonyms and euphemisms we have to bear in mind today. It might have had its point in the earliest use I can find
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Massive leap in violent crime prompts action
VIOLENT crime has increased in Richmondshire by 43pc over the last year, police have revealed. However, crime in the district has decreased by 2pc overall, with house burglaries down by 32pc, vehicle crime down by a third and robbery down by 30pc over
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Criticism deserved
DARLINGTON Borough Council was feeling sore this week over the way its mauling at the hands of the Local Government Ombudsman was reported by our sister paper The Northern Echo. The ombudsman's report was critical of the council for not enforcing a legal
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Poor storage 'could be damaging council art collection'
A ROOT and branch check is to be made on art works in Darlington Borough Council's collection. Until the £4,000 audit is done, all action on the collection could be suspended - even though storage arrangements are said to be unsatisfactory and could be
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Ravenscar looks too hot for his rivals
UP-AND-COMING young chaser Ravenscar (2.30) could prove to be a hard horse to pass in the closing stages of the opener at Southwell this afternoon. Ravenscar has won two of his last three outings, striding away from a big field to record an impressive
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Minibus driver cleared of rape
A minibus driver accused of raping a mother-of-one has been cleared of attacking her after a night out. David Briggs, who worked at the United taxi office in Darlington, was accused of raping the woman after she ordered a cab following a night out. It
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Raw the shoot-out hero as Cowtons lift trophy
Bob Seymour Division Two Trophy Final Cowtons 2 Three Coopers 2 (aet, Cowtons won 4-1 on penalties) GOALKEEPER Andrew Raw was the Cowtons hero as his two marvellous penalty shoot-out saves gave them the Bob Seymour Trophy in a dramatic final at Northallerton
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Night club needs staff
A RECRUITMENT drive is under way ahead of the opening of a night club. The £2.2m Studio in Chester-le-Street is the latest venture for Vimac Leisure, which needs more than 40 full and part-time staff to begin work in mid-May. Studio will offer two self-contained
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Ambulances freed from total 999 turn-out duty
PEOPLE with minor injuries who dial 999 in North Yorkshire will no longer be sent an ambulance. From Sunday, calls about non-urgent ailments will be transferred to medical staff for assessment. The move follows a Government announcement last year which
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Archaeology tender invite angers car park protestors
A COUNCIL has been accused of jumping the gun by advertising for archaeologists to dig in car parks, before a decision on the sites' future has been taken. Protestors angry at plans to sell off Richmond's Station Road and Yorke Square car parks for housing
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Ammunition unearthed
BOMB disposal experts were called yesterday after workmen uncovered First World War ammunition. The phosphorous bottles, at first believed to be from the Second World War, were dug up in Staithes Lane, Staithes, near Whitby, North Yorkshire, by gas engineers
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TFA sets out key questions to ask
0THE Tenant Farmers' Association has set out key issues for members to test how their parliamentary candidates stand. Reg Haydon, national chairman, said a key theme of Sir Don Curry's Policy Commission report of 2002 was that farmers needed to reconnect
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Man knocked down polieman after receiving parking ticket
An enraged company boss mowed down a policeman outside his son's primary school for slapping a parking ticket on his car. Schoolchildren watched in horror as Paul Hughes, 40, accelerated his Land Rover Discovery into shocked special constable Andreas
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Newsreader to become honorary doctor of law
NORTH-EAST newsreader Mike Neville is to receive an Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law from Northumbria University. He has been a familiar face on television screens for more than 40 years, as newsreader of North East Tonight on Tyne Tees Television and
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Swiss success hints at Guineas chance for Johnston stable
HE'S won the Guineas again has Mark Johnston, with Royal Island, Joe Fanning up. Even if this wasn't the great English Classic, but only the Swiss Guineas, for local owner Markus Graff, it was a marvellous hint that the Middleham maestro might bring back
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Prices at the auction marts
BARNARD CASTLE. - Wed of last week. Fwd: 428 sheep. Hoggs lt to 118p av 92.5p; std to 113p av 106.5p; med to 113p av 108.6p; heavy to 114.8p av 107.9p; owt to 114p av 98.5p. Cast sheep. - Cont to £48.50; Suff to £45; Mule to £38.50; BFL £41.50; Swale
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Student Manake beats odds to triumph at awards night
A ZIMBABWEAN asylum seeker has been crowned Student of the Year in a new awards scheme that celebrates the best of the Tees Valley's youth. Manake Ndebele fled her home country of Zimbabwe to escape the troubles of the regime. Three years later, she has
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Region's cleanest beaches receive Seaside Awards
TWENTY four of the cleanest beaches in the region have won a coveted Seaside Award flag. The blue and yellow flags are handed out each year by the charity ENCAMS, which is also behind the Keep Britain Tidy campaign. They are given to spotlessly clean
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Probing the murky depths of Bedale Beck
IT'S not exactly water under the bridge yet with the Environment Agency nosing around and Spectator, no stranger to the banks of Bedale Beck, is saddened that the well intentioned efforts by the town council to improve the area should have provoked a
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Sixth form plan could
PLANS for a sixth-form college in east Durham could win backing in principle from council decision-makers. Durham County Council's cabinet will be recommended next Wednesday to approve a 500-place college next to St Bede's RC Comprehensive School at Peterlee
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Library's month of wartime memories
EVENTS recalling wartime sights, sounds and memories will feature in local history month. Talks, demonstrations, displays and a coffee morning will be held at Durham's Clayport Library throughout May and into June. The programme begins with a display
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Ambrose relishing chance
DARREN Ambrose says he would rather concentrate on playing for Newcastle United than worry about any transfer speculation. The midfielder has been linked with a move back to his former club Ipswich in the summer, while Norwich are another club believed
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Georgian house faces demolition as plans are submitted for 16 flats
OBJECTIONS are growing to plans for the demolition of a Georgian house to make way for 16 flats in Egglescliffe. The Davis Partnership has submitted a proposal to Stockton Borough Council to demolish The Grange, in Urlay Nook Road, and replace it with
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Comment from The Northern Echo: Making our own judgement
THERE is, for the time being at least, no smoking gun. The Attorney-General's advice over the legality of war in Iraq is not as "unequivocal" as Tony Blair has suggested, but equally Lord Goldsmith concluded that Mr Blair had "a reasonable case". There
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Shaping up for fun day at school
CHILDREN from Chester-le-Street came face-to-face with characters from a new educational book. Pupils at the new Pelton Community Primary School met Jeanette Duffy and Sonia McDonnell, authors of Shayped Island. They read part of their book and introduced
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We're vindicated by report, says action group
WHEN it opened in 2003, the Reynolds arena spelled happiness for many supporters who dreamed of Premiership football for their third division heroes. But the dream became a nightmare for members of the Neasham Road Action Group as Darlington Borough Council
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'It's like being teenagers again, but much better'
As a new study shows that walking regularly can help boost mental as well as physical health, Sharon Griffiths catches up with the Reeth Amblers, who are living proof of its enormous benefits. DOCTORS maintain that one of the best cures for depression
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Rowers' marathon effort
WEARY rowers from an all-girl college were guaranteed to sleep well last night after completing 24-hours' hard slog on the River Wear. Coxed four crews from St Mary's College Boat Club, in Durham City, took it in turns to row for two hours along the river
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Burgled widow died of natural causes
An elderly widow who was found cowering under a pile of clothes after apparently being attacked by intruders died from natural causes, post mortem tests revealed today. Shortly before she died elderly churchgoer Kathleen Roberts told a relative from her
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P&O buoyed by upbeat first quarter
Shipping group P&O announced that a reorganisation of its ferries business had gone well as it reported an upbeat first quarter. P&O said it had achieved nearly 1,000 of the planned 1,200 job cuts in the ferries division while other changes, such
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'Bargain' centre closed as police investigate sales
A DISCOUNT electrical shop appeared to have ceased trading yesterday, after visits by police and trading standards officers. Four officers from Durham Police and Darlington Trading Standards visited the shop, which does not have a name, in Northgate,
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Landowners' group comes to Defra's rescue
AN OVERWHELMED Government department has been rescued by landowner and farming campaigners, the Country Land and Business Association. Boxes of previously unobtainable application forms were rushed to the CLA's regional offices over the weekend by the
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Guisborough boss full of praise for battling players
Guisborough Town 0 Shildon 2 RELEGATED Guisborough completed their season last Saturday by losing 2-0 to fellow under-achievers Shildon to finish bottom of division one. But manager Steve Corden had nothing but praise for his battling players and the
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Informal cafe dining in the prettiest of market towns
MY dear late mother, whose traditional approach to food matters has been mentioned before in this space, had very firm views about pork, the cooking of. Being of the generation that believed it was only truly safe to eat it when there was an "r" in the
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Joining the fight to save a poetic emblem of the British countryside
FROM time to time, one reads that certain wild flowers are under threat from various sources. I seem to recall a few years ago that the bluebell featured in this kind of tale, the threat then being from a Spanish variety of the flower which was far stronger
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Stabbing victim was crash survivor
A MAN who died from a stab wound had recently survived a crash that killed his friend, The Northern Echo has learned. Craig Stephenson, 23, suffered a single wound to his chest after a confrontation in Keith Road, Grove Hill, Middlesbrough, last week.
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Warnings issued on replica rifles
Police have issued a new warning on the dangers of replica rifles after two authentic-looking examples were seized by officers. Both the replica assault rifles were capable of firing ball-bearing pellets and were recovered from teenagers in North Yorkshire
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Inquest opens into death of stab victim
AN inquest into the death of teenager Kimberley Bage was opened yesterday. The 16-year-old was found with multiple stab wounds at her mother's home in Troutpool Close, Hartlepool, two weeks ago. Her parents, Christopher Bage, 38, and Paula Hanley, 31,
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29/04/05
PROUD DAYS: MY mother, Miss Waring as she was then, was a primary school teacher in Sedgefield in the 1930s. She took the 7.44am train every day from Stillington to the isolated Sedgefield Station and then had to trudge a mile or so to the school in all
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The restoration of the monarchy
Rock legends Queen come to Newcastle next week as part of their worldwide tour, but for their new frontman, the North-East is a return home. Daniel King speaks to Paul Rodgers. HE may be speaking from a plush hotel in Budapest as he prepares for the latest
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Farmers urged 'to get Smart'
POLICE in Teesdale are asking farmers to protect their property with a security marking system after two burglaries in Bowes. A red Honda 4x4 quad bike was taken from a garage at West End Farm. West End bungalow, next door to the farm, was also targeted
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RSPB takes action to protect hen harriers
A major crackdown on people who kill rare birds of prey is being launched today. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is preparing to launch a round-the-clock nest protection scheme for hen harriers on one of its nature reserves in the
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Sympathy for a grieving father - but can it cut the Labour link?
POLITICIANS are often regarded as grey men in grey suits, one party's offering barely distinguishable from another's. Reg Keys is different. When the people of Sedgefield open their doors to him, a wave of emotion washes over their thresholds. "My son
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Authority chairman to resign
THE chairman of Cleveland Police Authority has decided to step down after spending the past year helping turn the force's troubled image around. Magistrate Ted Cox took over the reins when Cleveland Police was in the middle of a financial crisis and staff
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Fun runners inspired by Radcliffe
ORGANISERS of a road race and fun run through the North Yorkshire countryside say the success of British runners is attracting more people than ever before to the sport. Competitors from across the country are expected to take part in the seventh 10km
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Villagers seem to care little about hall for public use
A FIVE-YEAR struggle to secure a new village hall in Sutton under Whitestonecliffe may be abandoned owing to villagers' apathy. The village institute committee distributed questionnaires to 120 households to determine whether villagers wanted a new hall
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Magistrates' 'damper' on music event
LICENSING magistrates have been accused of putting a damper on celebrations planned to tie in with a huge free music festival in the North-East. Two city centre bars will have to close ealrlier than they planned after Sunderland licensing panel only granted
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Call to audit leisure centre
A CONSERVATIVE councillor has called for an energy audit of a leisure centre. The Dolphin Centre, in Darlington, is presently undergoing a £3.2m refurbishment. It will see alterations to the changing rooms and fitness studios, improved meeting and conference
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Upgrade for bus stops
BUS stops across Darlington are to be upgraded in a bid to get more people using services. Many shelters have become targets for vandals and centres for gangs of youths to congregate. But yesterday, Darlington Borough Council's environment scrutiny committee
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The moment they met as vivid as ever
ELSIE and Eric Corps vividly remember the day they met on a crowded dance floor - more than six decades ago. Yesterday, the couple, from Edmund Street, Darlington, looked back fondly as they celebrated their diamond anniversary. Mrs Corps, 84, said: "
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Witness jailed for stabbing arson suspect to death
A witness who gave evidence against a man who was acquitted of a notorious multiple murder was jailed for ten years yesterday for killing him. Peter Stevens, 23, of Fernwood Road, Lemington, Newcastle, was found guilty of the manslaughter of Gary Cornish
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Figures suggest sum 'may be half' that cited
A SOLUTION to Richmond's toilet crisis may have been found by the town council - provided the figures add up. At Monday's meeting, members unanimously agreed to send district councillor Paul Cullen's proposal to save Richmond's market place toilets to
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Raising the town banner
CHILDREN and community groups will help to brighten up Newton Aycliffe next month with banners depicting their lives in the area. Schools and groups in the town were invited to create banners with a theme of 'Our Life in Newton Aycliffe'. Banners have
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Houses plan for hotel
PLANS to convert part of a historic hotel into houses have been submitted. Coast and Country Hotels Group wants to build five houses in the northern wing of The Croft, in Croft-on-Tees, near Darlington. The remainder of the 170-year-old building, recently
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Jail term for woman who blinded mum
A WOMAN who left a young mother blind in one eye after glassing her was jailed yesterday. Nadia Gibany had to have a prosthetic eye fitted, following the incident at the Aruba club, in Redcar, east Cleveland, in October last year. She had been enjoying
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Minster exhibts abstract paintings as an expression of faith
VISITORS to York Minster can now see an exhibition of abstract paintings. The show of art, called The Hidden Mystery, runs from today until May 30 and includes a selection of texts and poems. The paintings are by artist Jerry Scott, who lives in Stillingfleet
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Town centre revival continues
FURTHER moves to revitalise a town's shopping centre have been agreed. Oracle Estates, which took over ownership of Peterlee town centre, in County Durham, this year, plans to demolish several shop units in Yoden Way to make way for two large stores.
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Volunteer group is created at reserve
A VOLUNTEER group has been set up to guide visitors around a North-East nature reserve. Next month and in June, the "green guides" will lead free guided walks around the nature trail at Cow Green reservoir, in Teesdale, County Durham, every Sunday and
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One for booting into the bin
FIFA STREET, Publisher: EA Sports Big, Formats: Xbox and PS2. Price: £39.99, Family friendly? 3+: 'YOU bought what?" I couldn't believe my ears. A mate of mine had splashed out on an Xbox. As part of the deal he could choose a free game. What did he select
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Road closed for rescue mission after refuse truck falls clean away
THE road to a remote dales village was blocked yesterday while a recovery team winched an over-turned refuse truck to safety. The 26-tonne lorry had been travelling from Eastgate to Rookhope, in Weardale, County Durham, at lunchtime when it left the road
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Controversial dean to retire as case is dropped
A SENIOR clergyman accused of misconduct has agreed to resign after the charges against him were dropped. The Dean of Ripon, the Very Rev John Methuen, was due to face 21 charges of conduct unbecoming the office and work of a clerk in holy orders and
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Award for 'absolute star'
A teenager's courage and independence has been recognised with an award. Keith Stewart, who has Down's Syndrome, diabetes and coeliac disease, a condition that requires a special diet, has battled to lead as normal a life as possible. He was presented
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Widow's last words could catch raiders
A pensioner's final words may help catch the assailants who left her huddling in terror for 24 hours following an attack. Kathleen Roberts barricaded herself in a utility room after confronting youths who broke into her Stockton home on Tuesday. But the
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Museum's £3m project to let people see its archives
A MUSEUM has announced a £3m project to improve access to its extensive archives. The National Railway Museum, in York, is applying for funding to open up to the public 150 years of documents, pictures and items of railway memorabilia. Richard Taylor,
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Plan to build homes at historic hotel
PLANS have been submitted to convert part of a historic hotel into houses. Coast and Country Hotels Group wants to build five houses in the northern wing of The Croft, in Croft-on-Tees, near Darlington. The remainder of the 170-year-old building, which
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Pair arrested in shotgun inquiry
POLICE have arrested two people over an incident in which a man was shot. The pair were arrested over conspiracy to murder Newcastle father John Ormston, a doorman. Detectives detained the men at different addresses in Lancashire on Tuesday. They were
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Green burial plots available at newly consecrated site
A NEW cemetery has become one of the first in the region to include a purpose-built environmentally friendly burial ground. Several inquiries have already been received about the green facilities. The first phase of the cemetery, in Seaham's Byron's Walk
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Holy procession
A STATUE of the Virgin Mary will be crowned with a wreath of lilacs and tulips at the start of a procession organised by the Middlesbrough branch of the Legion of Mary, on Sunday. Worshippers will pray and sing hymns while walking around the Sacred Heart
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District agrees to hand overresponsibilty for running them
DISTRICT councillors have agreed to ask the town council whether it will accept responsibility for them. The move on Tuesday by the full district council was made as the dispute continued over quoted figures for operating and maintaining the toilets.
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Petta urged to deliver by Proctor
MARK Proctor last night admitted Darlington have yet to see the best of Bobby Petta and believes now is the time for the enigmatic Dutch winger to deliver. Since swapping Celtic for Quakers on a free transfer in February, Petta has failed to live up to
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News in brief
FARM SALE: Tocketts Bridge Farm, in Guisborough, on the B1269 road, will host its first car boot sale of the year on Sunday. BARGAIN HUNTERS: There is a haven for bargain hunters at the Leven antique and collectors fair, on Bank Holiday Monday, at the
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Museum day planning fun for the family
A NORTH-EAST museum has organised traditional May Day celebrations for visitors. Children from schools in the region will be dressed in period costumes to recreate a typical festival atmosphere in the Colliery Village at Beamish Open Air Museum, near
