Archive
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Sniffer dogs join anti-terrorism crackdown
SNIFFER dogs were on high alert as they scoured lorries unloaded from a ship docked on Teesport.They were looking for illegally imported money that could be used to fund terrorism as part of a nationwide campaign to protect the UK from threat.Today’s
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Dolan is back at Pools
MATTY DOLAN has returned to Hartlepool United on loan. The central midfielder is back at his hometown club after finding first-team opportunities limited at Bradford this season.He was at Pools last season when he made 24 appearances while he was a Middlesbrough
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Cricket mourns, but the show must go on
WERE the death of Phil Hughes not such a tragedy, Steve Harmison would be entitled to say: "I told you he couldn't play the short ball."The former Durham paceman quickly worked that out when playing for England Lions against the Australians
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East Coast service set to be 'transformed' but row over franchise deal rumbles on
THE Government has promised a “transformation” of the East Coast rail franchise after handing an eight year contract to run the link to a venture involving Stagecoach and Virgin.The move took many by surprise amid strong speculation that Eurostar and
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Chuckle Brothers bring light to Darlington's big Christmas switch on
THE CHUCKLE Brothers switched on Darlington's Christmas lights to a spectacular fanfare of fireworks. Thousands of adults and children packed in to the town’s market square to watch the event, hosted by TFM’s breakfast show stars, Steve and Karen
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Nominations invited for the Chairman's Medal which recognises outstanding achievement in County Durham
PEOPLE who have made a difference in their communities across County Durham are being sought as nominations are made for the Chairman’s Medal.It is presented to individuals and groups to recognise significant achievement and outstanding effort in all
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Man ordered to pay total of £390 after flytipping in Brandon
A MAN twice caught on camera dumping waste has been ordered to pay a total of £390 by magistrates.Footage taken from a CCTV camera showed a car registered to Darren Walters stop at an isolated spot in the Pit Lane area of Brandon, the court heard.It showed
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North-East risks being in Scotland's shadow under devolution plan
RADICAL plans for Scotland to control its air passenger taxes are a “slap in the face” to the North-East, say campaigners, who last night urged ministers to protect the region from being overshadowed by its rival north of the border.The Government’s devolution
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Shafted from both sides
EDITORIAL COMMENT IRRESPECTIVE of the verdict in September’s referendum on Scottish independence, there was always deep concern about the potential impact it could have on the North-East of England. Scotland was guaranteed new powers whether
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Father Christmas to travel first class after help from Barnard Castle pupils
FATHER Christmas will be travelling first class this winter after a group of Teesdale teenagers completed a mission to be his ultimate little helpers.Ten boys, aged 14 and 15, from Teesdale School, in Barnard Castle, have been beavering away in their
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Quarry bike track has support of comedy star
COMEDIAN and off-road motorcycle enthusiast Ross Noble is supporting a project to turn a former quarry into a haven for dirt bikes.The 38-year-old Newcastle-born star is back in the region for a series of gigs in his hometown.Although he spends his evenings
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Operatic treats in store in Teesdale and Gateshead
A ROUSING evening of music and song will ensure the festive season starts on a high note.North-East company InterOpera is staging two special performances at The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle on Saturday, December 6, and Gateshead Old Town Hall on Sunday
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Miliband promises 'muscle' for the North-East following Scotland tax U-turn
ED Miliband today tries to calm anger about extra powers for Scotland by promising Labour will give the North-East the “muscle” to compete for investment and jobs. In an interview with The Northern Echo the Labour leader said he recognised the
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Rail franchise
WHAT a brilliant move by the Government . Despite public opinion and common sense, they are determined to re-privatise the East Coast Main Line so they hinted that it will go to a French-led consortium. Then, when people have got well-and-truly
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Stockton's okay
THIS week I took my partner and her friend to Stockton to visit a material shop as they are both quilting fanatics. Leaving them in the shop to swoon over all those different patterns I ventured on to the high street. Over the years I have
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I'll be burgered
THANKS for printing my moan about littering (HAS, Nov 27), however I must point out that when I mentioned Bishvegans I was referring to the collective term for people from Bishop Auckland, or Bish Vegas as it's known by the classier folk of the town
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Paranoia
THE first duty of public administration is public safety, but this can lead to the state having excessive powers if there is a paranoia over some threat. There could be a threat from criminals operating under the cloak of religion or politics.
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Pupils create festival of light
SCHOOLCHILDREN held their own Festival of Light after being inspired by the Hindu festival Diwali.More than 150 pupils at Evergreen Primary School, in Bishop Auckland, got involved in the project as part of their school topic ‘Colour my World’.Each class
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Daughter of James Herriot author amongst volunteers to receive thanks
THE daughter of James Herriot author Alf Wight is one of a number of volunteers to be recognised for devoting years of service to a charity.Rosie Page is one of 18 people who have volunteered for Herriot Hospice Homecare for more than ten years.Between
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Gillespie devastated by the loss of Hughes
Jason Gillespie has paid tribute to the late Phil Hughes, a player he coached on an Australia A tour of Zimbabwe in 2011.The Yorkshire coach described it as a “privilege” to work with the 25-year-old, whose passing at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney yesterday
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Artists thanked for helping servicemen and veterans on road to recovery
TWO North Yorkshire artists have been recognised for their work in using crafts and art to help injured servicemen and veterans on the road to recovery.Chris Morgan and Di Williamson have received Hero Awards for the hours they have spent volunteering
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Two in court following alleged dog attack near Pittington
A BREEDER who lost an arm after he was savaged by his own American bulldogs appeared in court today (Thursday, November 27) in connection with an alleged dog attack on a man in a separate incident.Stephen Leonard Potts, 48, appeared at Peterlee Magistrates
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Town's "angels" help keep the night-time peace
A GROUP of volunteers who provide a “friendly face” for people enjoying a night out have helped reduce the number of violent incidents in a North Yorkshire town.Street Angels was set up last year and recently celebrated its first anniversary of working
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No appeal from jockeys after Sedgefield ban
The six jockeys involved in the void race drama at Sedgefield on Tuesday will not appeal against their ten-day bans.A yellow flag - signalling 'stop-race' - was incorrectly raised by a member of groundstaff as the runners approached an omitted fence when
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College students send Christmas gifts to Moldova
KINDHEARTED students at a North-East college have Christmas all wrapped up after ensuring some of the world’s most vulnerable children have a festive gift to open this year.Students at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, filled more than
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East Coast rail announcement - the reaction
MICK Cash, general secretary of the RMT rail union: "It is simply ludicrous to even contemplate re-privatisation when not only have there been two previous private sector failures on the East Coast route but when the public-sector rescue operation
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Time to nominate inspiring youngsters
NOMINATIONS are now open for an awards scheme that celebrates the achievements of youngsters in the Darlington borough.The Vibe Awards have been celebrating the very best of young people in Darlington for 19 years, and the next ceremony on March 24, will
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Road work postponed due to bad weather
WORK to build a new bridge over the A1 at Catterick, involving a 300 tonne crane lifting 32 concrete and steel beams, has been postponed.The Highways Agency said the work would be "a significant milestone" in the scheme to upgrade the A1 to
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Explorer Captain Cook to be honoured with statue in Middlesbrough
A STATUE to Captain James Cook is to be erected in the town where he was born to honour the 18th century maritime explorer. It is one of 20 new capital expenditure projects dreamt up by Middlesbrough councillors which mayor, Ray Mallon, has approved
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Consultation launched of future of North-East culture
A VISION for the cultural development of the North-East over the next 15 years is to be set out.The Case for Culture will become a key element of North East Culture Partnership’s (NECP) plans to secure more investment in the sector.The vision aims to
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Dog puts intruder to flight
A YOUNG would-be burglar bit off more than he could chew when he attempted to raid a house at the weekend.The youth broke into a house in Baildon Close, Acomb in York, but the 66-year-old householder found the intruder in the kitchen.Then the man's dog
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Motorcycling Santas preparing for annual run
MOTORCYCLING fundraisers are revving up ready for the annual Boundary 500 Santa ride.More than 150 bikes are due to set off from Thornaby town centre on Saturday with the aim of raising as much cash as possible for Zoe'sPlace Baby Hospice.The organiser
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Wear a bobble hat and support the NSPCC this Christmas
A CHILDREN’S charity is giving the region a heads-up on its festive fundraising campaign – Bobble Hat Day.The NSPCC is asking people to wear a bobble hat for the day on Monday, December 10, and make a small donation to its ChildLine service.The service
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Awards for some of the North-East’s bravest youngsters
A CEREMONY recognising the bravery of 26 of the North-East’s most inspirational youngsters has been held today (Thursday, November 27). Children from across the region attended the annual Brave Hearts charity event in their honour at St James'
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North-East has best performing nurseries
THE North-East has the highest proportion of nurseries judged good or outstanding in England, according to Ofsted inspectors.But in some areas a significant minority of nurseries in the North-East are judged to require improvement.Between July and August
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Heroic soldier killed in Afghanistan died "doing job he loved", inquest hears
A HEROIC soldier killed in Afghanistan died “with his rifle in his hand doing a job he loved”.An inquest today (November 27), ruled that Captain Richard Holloway, of Hamsterley, County Durham, was killed during active operational duty while serving in
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Pub regulars help raise money for special care baby unit
SWEAR jars and smoking fines helped regulars at a Darlington pub raise much needed funds for a special care baby unit.Around £130 was raised by keen fundraisers at the Joseph Pease pub, in Tubwell Row, for the special care baby unit at Darlington Memorial
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Tributes paid to popular Heighington publican
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular publican who has died aged 57. Chris Flint ran the Bay Horse in Heighington, near Darlington, with his wife Sue and was popular with regulars who described him as a friend to all and an integral part of the
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Middlesbrough convenience store is top of the shops
Ahead of Small Business Saturday on December 6, Lydia Willgress talks to one corner shop that has outdone its supermarket rival THREE young women stand in the queue laughing. They walked past a Tesco Express to get to Belle Vue Convenience Store
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Newton Aycliffe charity volunteer crowned Durham's unsung hero
A CHARITY volunteer has been selected from five inspirational people in an unsung hero competition.Ken Sadler, from Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has been crowned Durham’s Unsung Hero following a search by Modern Rugs.The Newton Aycliffe-based rug manufacturer
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Street Angels praised by Cleveland Police for mopping up Teesside streets
STREET Angels are being heralded by Cleveland Police for helping revellers.More than 100 volunteers give up their time on Fridays and Saturdays across Teesside.There are now Street Angels projects in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton, Redcar and Guisborough.During
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Assessing the mood as East Coast returns to the private sector
IF there is one inevitability in life other than death and taxes, it’s that trains run late. While East Coast can boast an improving punctuality rate in recent times, on this grey, foggy morning in Darlington several trains running northbound appear
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Controversial turbine plan thrown out by council
CAMPAIGNERS opposed to an application to erect a 100m wind turbine in east Cleveland have been backed by councillors.Members of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s regulatory committee were urged to reject planning officers’ advice and refuse permission
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Tweeting councillor told to 'put up or shut up' by mayor Ray Mallon over sale of Grade I Listed Acklam Hall in Middlesbrough
INDIGNANT mayor Ray Mallon told a councillor to "put up or shut up" following comments made on Twitter about the sale of Acklam Hall in Middlesbrough.Following years of negotiations with potential developers and English Heritage the town's only
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Black Friday arrives in the UK
BLACK Friday has arrived and the region’s shoppers are set to take to the high street in their droves, as retailers slash their prices for one day only.According to research from retail finance experts Pay4Later, nearly three quarters of people from the
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Seven decades with Crook Mothers' Union
A WOMAN is celebrating 70 years as a member of a charity which has given her as much joy as she has been able to spread through its work.Freda Fletcher joined Crook Mothers’ Union in 1944 when she was just 18 years old- making her one of the national
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Primary school backs Christmas toy appeal
PRIMARY school pupils have backed a Christmas toy appeal to make sure others have a Christmas Day to remember.Youngsters at Heathfield Primary School in Darlington have been donating to the Darlington Toy Appeal.The appeal, launched by the Salvation Army
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Long-serving employees retire from West Auckland firm
A TECHNICAL yarn and fabric company will say a fond farewell to two long standing employees with a combined service record of 85 years.Allan Taylor, 62, worked his last shift at Aptec Products Limited in West Auckland, County Durham, today (Thursday,
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Just what the chairman ordered
Column by Spennymoor Town captain Chris Mason Before the season started, the chairman said that he wanted a top-five finish in the league, a good run in the FA Cup and a good run in the FA Trophy. So far, we’ve had a great run in the Cup, and
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Poor children in wealthy areas of North 'struggle to read'
PUPILS from poor families who live in rural and affluent parts of the North-East and North Yorkshire are falling behind their counterparts in deprived and urban areas after being overlooked by schools, researchers have concluded.The Reading England's
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Woman is jailed 12 years after biting chunk out of cousin's nose at funeral wake
A WOMAN chewed off a chunk of her cousin's nose in front of horrified onlookers at a funeral wake, a court heard. Savage Jodie Rutley, 21, was today jailed for 12 years for the shocking attack which saw her victim lose her entire left nostril.
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Region's forces fare well in police assessments, with Durham particularly highly rated
THE region’s police forces are serving their communities well but like the rest of the country need to get a grip on cyber crime, according to reports out today (Thursday, November 27).An assessment of policing across the UK by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate
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MPs urged to reform "failing" drugs policy
FORMER addicts, police chiefs and academics have called on MPs to reform the UK's "failing" drugs policy. The plea was made at a seminar on the future of drug policy at Ramside Hall Hotel, near Durham City, today (Thursday, November 27). Delegates
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Film Review: Horrible Bosses 2
Rating: 2/5 Certificate: 15 Running time: 108 mins RELEASED in 2011, Horrible Bosses centred on three friends, who plotted to kill their sadistic employers and found self-respect in the process. Sean Anders' raunchy sequel flings that self-respect
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Team GB wheelchair racer to inspire sporty students
TEAM GB wheelchair racer Jade Jones is set to inspire students across the Tees Valley at a conference tomorrow (Friday, November 28).Ms Jones, who lives in Middlesbrough and trains under Tanni Grey-Thompson, will address 45 students from colleges across
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Sedgefield racecourse hosts charity raceday for Hartlepool hospice
A RACECOURSE is holding a charity raceday as the countdown to Christmas begins.This year, the Countdown to Christmas Raceday at Sedgefield Racecourse in County Durham will raise funds and awareness for the Hartlepool and District Hospice.Wynyard Park,
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Painting Stockton in a positive light
A DECISION to film the controversial TV programme Benefits Street in a North-East town has led to an innovative online campaign to show the area in a far more positive light.The Northern Echo and The Evening Gazette are jointly backing the Positively
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Film Review: Paddington
Rating: 4/5 Certificate: PG Running time: 95 mins MORE than 50 years after he first appeared in print, author Michael Bond's beloved bear Paddington has finally arrived on the big screen in his first star-packed family adventure. Upcoming
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Album review: Olly Murs - Never Been Better
Olly Murs Never Been Better LISTENING to intro track Did You Miss Me, anyone would think Olly Murs was staging a comeback by copying Michael Jackson or Justin Timberlake. But as this is his fourth album in four years, and the X Factor runner-up
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Album review: Mary J Blige - The London Sessions
Mary J Blige The London Sessions SOUL songstress Mary J Blige has discovered a taste – and a new love – for the UK while making her 13th studio album. For The London Sessions, she has employed the services of home-grown stars such as Naughty
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Tommy Lee Jones: At home on the range
Producing, writing, directing and starring in your own film sounds like more than enough work for one person, but if you want that film to be a success, you have to get out there and promote it too.Tommy Lee Jones knows this; he has, after all, been in
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Scotland's new tax powers are "slap in the face" to North-East business
HANDING Scotland the power to axe controversial airport taxes is a “slap in the face” to North-East business that risks 1,000 jobs and £400m, say campaigners who urged ministers to protect the regional economy. AS part of the devolution deal drawn
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Cirali - an unspoiled Turkish gem
WITH the rise of hedonistic resorts like Marmaris, Turkish holidays have of recent years become blighted by the Brits abroad phenomenon.However, there are still parts of the beautiful country left untouched by the ravages of sunburned students and their
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VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: Farsley 1 Spennymoor Town 1
Spennymoor Town drew 1-1 at Farsley in the Evo-Stik First Division North on Tuesday thanks to a goal by substitute Gavin Cogdon. He came off the bench in the second half with Moors 1-0 down, and his leveller stretched the team's unbeaten run to
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Middlesbrough youngster joins Preston on loan
MIDDLESBROUGH youngster Bradley Fewster has joined League One promotion hopefuls Preston on loan for the remainder of the season. Fewster, who is an England youth international, played against Preston in a Capital One Cup second-round tie in August
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Crackdown on late payment
THE scourge of late payment is set to be tackled by the government and a group of big industry players.A new Advisory Board is being formed with a view to strengthening the Prompt Payment Code and ensure suppliers are paid on time; an issue that has long
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Man attacked with machete
A MAN suffered a broken jaw after being struck in the face with a machete.The 22-year-old was at a friend’s house on Bishopton Road, in Stockton, when two men entered the house and assaulted him at about 7.30pm on Sunday, November 23.The victim was struck
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Lost - the bath toy that ventured into space
A SEARCH is underway to find and rescue an intrepid explorer who disappeared on his return from a daring mission.Astroduck became the first rubber bath toy to be sent into space when he soared into the upper atmosphere suspended from a weather balloon.But
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Master butcher's exceptional pork products
Ruth Campbell meets master butcher Jimmy Scott, who realised his dream of rearing his own herd of rare pigs in order to make exceptional pork products Jimmy Scott knew he wanted to be a butcher from the age of ten, when he helped his grandmother
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Community hero award for Whale Hill campaigner
A TEESSIDE campaigner has been granted an award for her commitment to her community.Olywn Peters, a former Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, has been made a Teesside Hero for her work with community groups.A councillor for more than seven years, Cllr Peters
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Cut your heating bills this winter
This week, Julia Gray shows how to save money by upgrading and insulating your heating system. 1. Service or replace the boiler For your home's boiler to work most efficiently, it needs to be serviced annually by a Gas Safe Register (www.gassaferegister.co.uk
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Care home boss guilty over safety failings following resident's death
A CARE home boss was this afternoon found guilty of safety failings which led to the death of an elderly resident. Matt Matharu was convicted of two charges brought by Hartlepool Borough Council under the Health and Safety at Work Act. He will
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Swift revenge: Taylor ditches spotify and sales soar
As Taylor Swift takes her music away from Spotify, Katie Wright asks whether this will set a dangerous precedent for the music streaming service.WHEN Taylor Swift decides to do something, she doesn't do it by halves. On the eve of the release of her new
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Stockton shines brightly as it turns on the sparkle
AN X Factor contestant and a singing Christmas tree took centre stage for the launch of Stockton Sparkles.Kerrianne Covell was joined by World Champion sprinter Richard Kilty had the honour of switching on the Christmas lights in the town centre.A highlight
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Sister of submarine blast victim brings family further grief after agreeing to send illicit packages into prison for her now ex-partner
A WOMAN who was pressured into sending packages containing prohibited items to her then partner, in prison, was spared an immediate jail sentence today (Thursday November 27). Julie Huntrod was cajoled by both boyfriend, at the time, and in phone
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Solar farm plans for edge of Bedale
A LEADING renewable energy firm has revealed a plan to develop a 12.5-hectare solar farm less than a mile from a market town.It is thought the 5MWp proposal at Bedale Wood Farm, west of Bedale, would be capable of powering about 1,300 homes and would
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Press conference update: Sunderland duo set to miss next three games as Ricky returns
GUS POYET has revealed that Emmanuel Giaccherini and Billy Jones will not be considered for a return for any of Sunderland’s three matches inside the next ten days. Both players have made significant progress and are nearing a return from respective
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MP attacked over private health links
RICHMOND MP William Hague is under attack by union bosses for his links to private healthcare interests. The Conservative MP is one of a number of Coalition Government MPs who voted in favour of the controversial Health and Social Care Bill in
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Life's not always a cabaret for Cumming
He's a shining light on the screen and stage, but Alan Cumming's early years were often dark and painful. The actor tells Hannah Stephenson how, while he's forgiven his abusive father, he'll never forget Scottish actor Alan Cumming seems a little
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Separating fact from fiction
ISN’T Google brilliant? It’s an amazingly life-enhancing tool and everyone loves it. How many answers to searches does it provide each day? Zillions probably. And each search takes you to all sorts of amazing websites. But, unfortunately, that’
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Making headlines this autumn
Sarah French talks to Wilson Derbyshire, owner of salon group Shine, about autumn-winter trends in hair and beauty THE wind’s picking up as autumn gets underway which, if you’ve got long hair, can spell disaster. There’s nothing glamorous about stepping
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What do you know about mouth cancer?
It's affecting growing numbers, yet many of us don't know anything about it. To mark Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, let's brush up on the facts. When it comes to mouth health, it's the state of our gnashers, and whether our smiles are Hollywood-worthy
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Press Conference Update: Boro boss admits to midfield dilemma ahead of Blackburn game
AITOR KARANKA admits he is still to decide who will replace the suspended Adam Clayton when Middlesbrough host Blackburn Rovers tomorrow afternoon. Clayton has been banned for one game after picking up his fifth booking of the season in last weekend
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Press Conference Update: Key players return as Newcastle head to West Ham
ALAN PARDEW could have four of his key players returning from injury when Newcastle United travel to West Ham on Saturday. Fabricio Coloccini, Steven Taylor, Cheick Tiote and Emmanuel Rivieire all have a good chance of being available for the trip
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Jail for Redcar gran who broke policeman's jaw with his own baton
A VIOLENT granny is starting a seven-year prison sentence for smashing a policeman in the face with his baton and breaking his jaw. Anne McQuilter was involved in a late-night large-scale drunken disturbance which two plain-clothed officers volunteered
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Festive fayre to raise funds for new Scout hut
A FESTIVE Fayre is being organised by a Darlington Scout group which needs to raise £130,000 to build a new home.The 18th Darlington (1st Middleton St George) Scouts have been without a permanent home for more than a year after their ageing hut on Neasham
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Student support for injured soldiers
CHARITY cyclists have been thanked for their efforts by an Army veteran who faced life in a wheelchair after a spinal cord injury.Students from Risedale Sports and Community College got to meet former soldier Paul Nichol who was left paralysed from the
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Ferryhill battery thief appears in court
A MAN stole hundreds of batteries from a Ferryhill discount store in attempt to pay off a loan shark, a court heard.Stuart William Butler, of Park Place East, Sunderland, stole Duracell batteries and Oil of Olay creams from in B&M Bargains on Wednesday
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Efforts of young people in Spennymoor recognised
A TOWN’S finest young citizens have been honoured in a new awards scheme.Spennymoor Town Council launched the Spennymoor Young People’s Awards in May and presented nominees and winners with certificates and plaques at the town hall on Tuesday. (November
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Early flock of lambs delights farmer and his family
AN EARLY flock of lambs gave a farmer and his family a pleasant surprise this week.Five newborn lambs are currently frolicking around a Newton Aycliffe farm, much to the joy of David Coupland, his wife and grandson.The unexpected – and very early - lambing
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National success for Darlington riding club
A NORTH-EAST riding club will showcase their talent overseas after being invited to compete in a national championship.Darlington and District Riding Club have been invited to take part in the Festival of Championships in Ireland in June next year.The
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Retired bricklayer calls on former colleagues to help asbestosis case
A RETIRED North East bricklayer is appealing to his former workmates to help his legal case after he was diagnosed with asbestosis. Anthony Walden, 78, from Darlington, contracted pneumonia in 2012 and chest x-rays taken at the time revealed he
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Snowman head to Sedgefield Christmas party
HUNDREDS of little snowmen will transform a North-East town into a winter wonderland this weekend. The annual snow party in Sedgefield, County Durham, regularly attracts up to 1,000 people and this year the town council is pulling out all the stops to
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Tickets available for charity fundraising ball
A FUNDRAISING ball is being held to raise money for a national children’s cancer charity. The event will take place at Hall Garth Hotel, in Coatham Mundeville, near Darlington, on Friday, December 12 to raise money for Children with Cancer UK.It is the
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Carmel girls help college clinch cross country crown
THE girls of Carmel College proved dominant in the recent Darlington schools’ cross-country championships.The championships, which saw all eight schools in the town compete, took place on the playing fields of Darlington School of Mathematics and Science.Carmel
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History group celebrates the past and present of Leadgate
LOCAL history enthusiasts have produced a booklet of old photographs that show how their village has changed.Leadgate History Society’s Swansong Leadgate is the last in a series of 16 publications that have drawn on an archive of 650 photographs that
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Northallerton business backs development of young golfing talent for 12th year running
A NORTHALLERTON business has renewed its sponsorship with a young sports team for the 12th year running. Romanby Golf Club Juniors continues to attract young people into the game and has a number of success stories thanks to the commitment of its
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Darlington club to develop all-weather practice and coaching area thanks to Sport England grant
A DURHAM golf club has landed a major investment to help the sport grow. Darlington has been awarded a Sport England Inspired Facilities Grant of £57,000 which will allow them to deliver an all-weather practice and coaching area. The club,
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The road to Bruin
WOJTEK, like Yogi, was smarter than the average bear. Adopted as a cub by Polish soldiers in 1942, initially fed on condensed milk – admittedly from an empty vodka bottle – he later developed a taste for beer and tabs and was officially enlisted into
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Green party
GREATLY to her surprise, the extraordinary Vera Selby – Queen of Green – has won a lifetime achievement award for her services to billiards. It was presented last week at the world championships in Leeds. “I thought I was just going for a day out
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Jozy Altidore may need to leave Sunderland to save his career
IF Jozy Altidore fails to score in either of Sunderland’s next two matches, it will be a year since he scored his one and only Premier League goal in a red and white shirt. Given that Steven Fletcher is fit, and Connor Wickham is an alternative
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Night alarm
“YOU are the worst mother. Ever,” said my 12-year-old son, last Monday. It’s not the first time I’ve been told this. Having five boys, I have had my many shortcomings pointed out to me on a regular basis over the years. Just as well I have a thick
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Eclair wrong on cupcakes
Nigel Slater's Icing on the Cake (BBC4, 9pm) COMEDIAN Jenny Eclair (well who else would you ask for an expert opinion on our fascination with cakes?) tells Nigel Slater that cupcakes are like stupid shoes and serve no purpose. Fortunately,
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Are police physical tests fit for purpose?
With two of the region's police forces preparing to take on new recruits, the standard of fitness required of newcomers to the police service has become a matter of scrutiny. Andy Walker weighs up both sides of the argument "SO easy it’s untrue
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In defence of Facebook
FACEBOOK has been accused by members of Lee Rigby's family of having "blood on its hands" after it emerged that one of the fusilier's killers had used the social media network to reveal his intention to kill a soldier.It is an understandable
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UK on track to give away a prize asset
BY the time you read this, it is possible that a key asset owned by the UK Government will have been handed to the French Government to run instead. It will not have been transferred across the Channel because it is failing and in need of rescue
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Seaton Carew team comes within a whisker of Mail on Sunday Classic
ONE of the region’s golf clubs came within a whisker of winning the prestigious Mail on Sunday Classic last week. Seaton Carew’s team were finally beaten 3&2 by Collingtree Park at Spain’s El Rompido. Jonathan Conley was the star of the
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Press Conference update: Pools aim for breakthrough
PAUL MURRAY is hoping for a busy day in the transfer market. The Hartlepool United boss has until 5pm today to land players before the loan window closes. The transfer market reopens on January 1. Murray this week signed centre-half Matteo
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Former Rockliffe boss joins Ramside Hall
A LEADING North-East hotelier who helped to put one of the region's best known hotels on the map is bringing his expertise to a new multi-million pound development.Until recently, Nick Holmes, 57, was the managing director at the 5 star award-winning
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'I'm ready to enjoy being the panto baddie'
Anita Harris talks to Steve Pratt about her long stage and screen careers which all began when she was offered the chance to dance in Las Vegas Anita Harris insists on kissing before telling. Those talking to her about her forthcoming pantomime
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Christmas Lowe-down
Durham-based songwriter and folk-singer Jez Lowe talks to Helen Brown about selling out venues across the country with his annual Christmas Show, Cauld Feet Again, Pet You recently completed a tour of New Zealand , Canada and the US, how did audience
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Decade of delight
Viv Hardwick talks to Clive Webb and Danny Adams about achieving panto perfectionTEN years of pantomime and performance record-breaking at Newcastle Theatre Royal have put father and son act Clive Webb and Danny Adams into the unique position of knowing
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More businesses are choosing to set up in the North-East
NEW figures show more businesses are choosing to set up in the North-East, but the region continues to lag well behind the national average. The number of businesses in the region has risen by more than 12 per cent to 150,655, according to the
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The Lemon brick road to Oz
Viv Hardwick talks to Darlington pantomime cast members Adam C Booth and Beth Stobbart HE may be The Scarecrow in The Wizards Of Oz at Darlington Civic Theatre, but Adam C Booth comes into the panto after shooting scenes as fictional comic character
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Fielding more surreal laughter
The Mighty Boosh surrealist funnyman Noel Fielding is bringing his unique brand of Luxury Comedy to Tyneside and Scarborough MOST people know Noel Fielding best as his eccentric alter ego Vince Noir from The Mighty Boosh. However, in the years
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For she's a jolly good cello
DARLINGTON Music Society presents cellist Ariana Kashefi and pianist Timothy End at the town's central hall on Sunday, December 7 at 7.30pm. This third concert of the season features a cellist who is making an excellent name for herself on the
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Woman In Black giveaway
TO celebrate the release of film The Woman In Black: Angel Of Death on January 1, starring Phoebe Fox, Jeremy Irvine and Helen McCrory, What's On is offering a lucky reader the chance to win a pair of tickets to the stage show of The Woman In Black
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Going with the flow on arts funding
When Darlington Arts Centre closed in July 2012, many heard the death knell for the town’s arts scene. Ian Hamilton talks to Darlington for Culture members and discovers that nothing could be further from the truth IT'S ten o’clock on a cold November
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Hair-raising battle of the bitches
THEY’RE billing the latest confrontation on the cobbles as The Battle of the Bitches, which isn’t a very nice thing to say about two ladies, but then we are talking about Terrible Tracy and Cunning Carla in Coronation Street (ITV1). They are, of course
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Jazz by Peter Bevan
WHAT’S ON: Friday (1pm) New York Brass Band, Gala Theatre, Durham, 03000-266-600. DVD REVIEWS: Charles Lloyd/Arrows into Infinity (ECM 378 0649) Saxophonist Charles Lloyd has had a long and varied career and this DVD, by film maker Jeffery
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Classical by Gavin Engelbrecht
WHAT’S ON: Samling Concert, Sage Gateshead, 7pm, Saturday. Eight young professional singers and pianists and their mentors, Thomas Moser, Caroline Dowdle and Joseph Middleton, present an evening of opera and song that never fails to shine a spotlight
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New album for Trisha Yearwood
Trisha Yearwood, Prizefighter:Hit After Hit (sony Music) AS one of the leading ladies of country music, Trisha Yearwood has released her 12th album that includes ten career-defining hits along with six new songs. She has taken time out from
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New exclusive folk music label
THE long-established Island Records company has decided to establish a new subsidiary label dealing exclusively in folk music, with Bellowhead and Linda Thompson as their first signings. Admittedly, they were kind enough to introduce us to the
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England look to nullify Hooper
England assistant coach Graham Rowntree says Australia captain Michael Hooper will receive "special attention" in Saturday's QBE International at Twickenham.Hooper has been outstanding for the Wallabies since winning the first of his 41 caps
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Darlington move for Mota
Darlington expect to have a new signing in the squad this weekend as French winger Nelson Mota is due to join the top-of-the-table side. While Mota’s previous club, Rambottom United, announced the move on Monday evening, the paperwork was still
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Cook sees one that got away
Alastair Cook bemoaned a chance of victory that "got away" from England, after Moeen Ali's outstanding maiden one-day international hundred against Sri Lanka.Moeen (119) gave England a wonderful opportunity to break new ground with what would
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Bent leaves Villa to join Brighton on loan
Darren Bent wants to add the finishing touch to Sami Hyypia’s faltering Brighton & Hove Albion side having joined on loan from Aston Villa. The former Sunderland striker is expected to make his debut against Fulham on Saturday after signing
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Peaty shocked by SPOTY nomination
Commonwealth and European gold medallist Adam Peaty was "gobsmacked" to be bracketed with Rory McIlroy and Lewis Hamilton this week.The 19-year-old has set a new world record and won multiple golds at both the Commonwealth Games and European
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Robshaw eyes chance to make amends
Chris Robshaw admits England's autumn outlook hinges on one final assault at Twickenham and failure against Australia would leave two months to stew over a dismal QBE Series. The rivals clash in a dress rehearsal for next year's pool showdown at
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Slipper keen for World Cup revenge
Wallabies prop James Slipper claims his team-mates are desperate to end England's dreams of winning the World Cup on home soil next year - just as Clive Woodward's side did to Australia in 2003.Jonny Wilkinson's famous drop-goal dashed Australia's hopes
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Murray splits from long-serving duo
Andy Murray has made more changes to his coaching team and is stopping working with long-time friend Dani Vallverdu and fitness trainer Jez Green.The move will be seen as a statement of faith in Amelie Mauresmo, whose future as Murray's coach had been
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Virgin consortium wins East Coast Main Line rail franchise
SIR Richard Branson's company Virgin will from next year be running the UK's two main London to Scotland rail routes. Assessing the mood as East Coast returns to the private sector East Coast rail announcement - the reaction
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Meyer: World Cup spots up for grabs
South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer has challenged his players to prove their World Cup worth after being forced into changes for their final game of the year in Wales.Meyer has had to select a new back three, with JP Pietersen, Bryan Habana and Johan Goosen
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John Parry excited for fresh start on Tour
A NORTH Yorkshire golfer will attempt to get his career back on track after his frustrating year on the European Tour ended on a positive note. Harrogate’s John Parry endured a difficult spell on the professional circuit, missing 22 cuts in a row
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Australian batsman Hughes dies after being struck on head by bouncer
Australia batsman Phillip Hughes has passed away two days after being struck on the head by a bouncer. Hughes, who would have turned 26 on Sunday, has died of the injuries he sustained while batting for South Australia against New South Wales at
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'I'm not about to turn soft' says Sunderland's revitalised striker
STEVEN FLETCHER has warned Premier League defenders that he would rather risk injury than soften his approach to playing top-level football for Sunderland.Fletcher feared the worst when he had to be replaced nursing an ankle problem during Scotland’s
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Newcastle midfielder targets top eight finish by continuing on the goal trail
MOUSSA SISSOKO wants Newcastle United to cement a place in the upper echelons of the Premier League for the remainder of the season – and thinks his goal output could be crucial.The French midfielder scored for the first time in the top-fight since March
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Karanka happy with his loan signings at Boro ahead of deadline
MIDDLESBROUGH manager Aitor Karanka will not be making any last-minute dips in to the loan market when the window for emergency short term deals closes at 5pm today. Boro head in to this Saturday’s home game with Blackburn knowing that a victory
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Cable maker will train Nigerian workers
A NORTH-EAST offshore cable maker says it will train the next generation of Nigerian engineers in an African deal.JDR Cable Systems, in Hartlepool, is making equipment for oil and gas firm Royal Niger Emerging Technologies.The contract will support Nigeria
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Increase in North-East alcohol-related liver disease in under 30s 255 per cent higher than national average
SHOCKING new figures have revealed the rising numbers of young people in the region who are dying and receiving hospital treatment for alcoholic liver disease. The statistics show that nearly 900 people from the North-East have died from alcoholic
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Darlington, Cleveland and Durham listed in drink-driving 'postcodes of shame'
A LIST of drink and drug-driving ‘postcodes of shame’ features Darlington, Cleveland and Durham in its top 20 Research released today (Thursday, November 27) reveals the UK postcodes with the highest rates of drivers with drink and drug-driving
