Archive

  • Bunny fun day

    Richmond rabbit sanctuary Bunny Burrows is holding a Christmas fair in the market hall on Sunday. The town's Mayor, Councillor Stuart Parsons, will open the event at 10am. It will continue until 4pm. Rabbits, and those who can advise on looking after

  • Good win pushes Thirsk up table

    Yorkshire Women's League Thirsk captured another established scalp in what is proving their best ever season. They beat Hull 3-2 at home in their latest clash and are now a respectable fifth in the table of a league which attracts some of the country's

  • Pupils want to splash out £15,000 on toilet blocks upgrade

    PRIMARY school pupils are aiming to raise around £15,000 to modernise their toilet blocks. The youngsters at Bowesfield Primary School, in Stockton, have formed a school council. The first item on its agenda is to improve the toilets. Although there is

  • Street blocked off in bid to curb weekend violence

    GATES have been put up at the entrance to a busy town centre street in a bid to reduce weekend violence. The stretch of road on Yarm Lane, Stockton, between Prince Regent Street and the High Street, will be prohibited to traffic between 10pm and 3am every

  • A Hoggarth & Sons Eskvale and Cleveland League

    Annandale Hotel v Black Swan: A and Black Swan shared the points in a six-goal thriller which left the home side still searching for a win at their new ground. Scott gave the visitors the lead with a well struck shot from the edge of the box. Black Swan

  • Promise made over school buildings problem

    OFFICIALS and governors have said they will look at all possibilities for renewing the buildings at a comprehensive school. Durham Johnston School, one of the country's best-performing state schools, is on a split site two miles apart and its ageing buildings

  • Ehiogu ready for return to action

    MIDDLESBROUGH boss Steve McClaren yesterday revealed that Ugo Ehiogu is making a remarkable recovery from a cruciate injury and is ready for a game four months after surgery. The 31-year-old centre-back is now expected to be available before the Christmas

  • 'This lunatic will be set free in two years'

    THE family of a shopkeeper left severely brain-damaged after being thrown from a car bonnet spoke of their dismay last night after his attacker was sentenced. Rakhvinder "Raj" Singh Garcha's father said his son had been handed a life sentence because

  • Swans loss highlights lack of firepower

    DARLINGTON manager David Hodgson stepped up his search for a new striker this week ahead of tomorrow's home game against Scunthorpe United. His need for someone to put the ball in the back of the net has become increasingly urgent after last Saturday's

  • Goldilocks and the three . . . scrum halfs

    IF it works for England, it can work for the cast of Darlington Civic Theatre's pantomime. So the cast of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, led by former Emmerdale star Lisa Riley, headed off to Darlington Rugby Club yesterday for some last-minute rehearsals

  • Finding the correct route to the Hall Garth carve-up

    A CARVE-UP can mean anything. A street fight between razor gangs, those notorious local government reorganisations of the Seventies or, as in this case, a visit to one of those eating places where they cut the joint before your transfixed eyes and let

  • Scouts make a splash

    The 15th Durham Elvet Scout Group have won the annual district swimming gala - and this time their high profile member didn't need to repeat his heroics of last year. Twelve months ago 11-year-old Joseph Smith of Sherburn Village, Durham, was catapulted

  • PM 'fine' after stomach pains scare

    Tony Blair insisted last night he was fit and well after being given the all-clear by doctors who had feared he was suffering from appendicitis. Mr Blair was questioned by reporters as he left No 10 for engagements in Wales and, asked how he was, replied

  • Threat to crayfish from US species

    A DWINDLING band of creatures native to England's waterways could be under threat from the spread of their bigger American cousins, conservationists have warned. Alarm bells have been ringing after three of the foreign crustaceans were spotted in the

  • 'Pay more to put extra bobbies on beat' call

    CLEVELAND police chiefs are calling for an increase in council tax to put an extra 200 officers on the streets. Plans to boost front-line policing were due to be discussed by the police authority yesterday. They include a dedicated officer for every ward

  • Moors' Martin on the goal trail

    New County North Durham Youth League: One game was played in the Under-16 section and South Moor went nap at home to Rutherford ending 5-1 winners. Mark McKinney bagged a brace of goals for South Moor. In the Under-16 League Shield Ryton ended 4-2 in

  • Darlington Church and Friendly League

    For some reason, one possibly the Rugby World Cup Final, a number of sides just managed to field 11 players, among those hit were Stillington The Royal and Darlington Travellers Rest who met at Stillington. It was Travellers who took the early initiative

  • Barron's bull tops Limousin pedigree sale at 8,000gns

    CARLISLE. - Pedigree Limousin cattle, from five herds, saw a a top price paid of 8,000gns for a four-year-old bull from the herd of W Barron, Morrow Edge Farm, Burnhope. Waindale Prime, a November 1999 son of Waindale Jackpot, was sold to the pedigree

  • Four-goal Gibbon grabs the glory

    Darlington Allstars: The Allstars Under-12s went through to the final 16 of the Durham County Cup after a strong controlled performance against Sunderland Stannington, winning 7-0. Scorers were man of the match Lee Gibbon (4), Jack Johns, Darren Swankey

  • Inter-County Championships: Senior Men Division One North

    Durham and Cleveland men are one step nearer the premier division following their table-topping exploits in Chesterfield last weekend when their three stage one victories in division one put them in to the promotion play-off next March. Yawar Abbas, the

  • WRA greetings

    Sir, -This year's Christmas card published in aid of the Wensleydale Railway Association features the Wensleydale Railway Class 107 DMU train in a scenic location during the Summer season 2003. The cards, which cost 40p each and are supplied with envelopes

  • Transcend debut could be first step in bid for Gold

    LORD TRANSCEND has already been talked about as potential Cheltenham Gold Cup material so all eyes will be on Howard Johnson's star when he makes his long-awaited debut over fences at Ayr this afternoon (1.00). Even though Howard has never hidden his

  • Shoptalk

    Going Christmas shopping? A bit short of cash? Please, PLEASE, think twice before using a store card. It's so easy. There you are in a big store full of sparkly lights and Christmas music and there are all these lovely things you'd like to buy for yourself

  • New clash as third Ghost Ship arrives

    THE third ship from the so-called Ghost Fleet arrived in the North-East yesterday - and sparked another bout of bickering. Opponents and supporters clashed as the former US Navy submarine repair vessel Canopus docked at the Able UK yard, in Hartlepool

  • Training in jail leads to jobs

    A TRAINING scheme for inmates at Durham prison is reducing the risk of reoffending by preparing prisoners to find work on release. The award-winning programme is proving so successful that it is being copied by other prisons in the UK. As a high security

  • Alas, poor Galileo...

    STUDENTS at a North-East school are staging their most ambitious performance to date about the life of the 17th Century scientist Galileo. The production of The Life of Galileo by Teesdale Comprehensive School, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, was inspired

  • Wearside League

    A year ago Jarrow were down and just about out. They gained just one point until the beginning of 2003 when all of a sudden their form took off and they ended the season in a respectable position. And so far this season they have 22 points more than at

  • Protest over plans to close school nursery

    PARENTS and children have demonstrated against plans to close a Darlington nursery. More than 30 parents and their children marched with banners outside Eastbourne Nursery, in Belgrave Street. Parents said more than 500 people had signed a petition objecting

  • Kath is in good voice for charity

    ONE of the region's outstanding singers is relishing doing her bit for charity. Kath Ireland, from Peterlee, east Durham, is performing a selection of songs to help the Macmillan Cancer Relief County Durham Appeal. When she sings at Elvet Methodist Church

  • Ice hockey - Junior round-up

    Billingham Bears are still top of the English Under-16 North A League following a 7-1 home win over Bradford Pirates at the Forum Ice Arena. Michael Farn put Bears ahead at 01.08 and added another a minute later. Paul Smith tucked away a third in the

  • Saying farewell to a faithful old friend

    DIAMONDS aren't the only best friend a girl can have. There's another song which puts in the same claim for her sewing machine. Being of a practical turn of mind, to say nothing of being a careful spender - OK, OK, I'm plain mean - I'd go for the sewing

  • Cockton Hill holds arwards

    Cockton Hill Presentation Evening: Cockton Hill Bowling Club held their Annual Presentation Evening at Shildon Civic Hall, where an excellent meal was followed by the presentations, entertainment and dancing. The Ladies section awards were: Jubilee Triples

  • Singers perform series of festive concerts for charity

    A GROUP of singers who perform in Victorian dress are planning a busy Christmas raising money for charity. During December, the Harp Singers will visit nearly a dozen places, giving three recitals and performing at eight places in Wensleydale. The Christmas

  • Thornaby Indoor Bowls Club

    Thornaby Indoor Bowls Club turned in a good all round team performance across four rinks to beat Darlington in the All England Egham Trophy inter-club mixed fours championship this week. Tracey Fairless, Dorothy Donald, Eric Ramsdale and skip Ken Lamb

  • Brewery wants to turn pub into heritage visitor centre

    PLANS are in the pipeline to create a heritage visitor centre at one of the region's oldest breweries. Camerons Lion Brewery, in Hartlepool, has applied for planning permission to develop a former pub on the brewery site into a heritage and exhibition

  • New Market tested at the first hurdle by Billy Row

    Tow Law Coors Cup: In the First Round Tow Law New Market A were stretched to beat the visiting Billy Row Club by the narrowest of margins. In the match made up of six darts and dominoes singles with three doubles at both games the New Market made their

  • Star man Nathan is on the Ball

    Ferryhill Town Youth: Ferryhill Town Youth Under-10s played at home to Belasis juniors, winning 3-0 and it was a action packed game from the start. Five minutes into the game Tom Olley scored the first goal followed shortly by Nathan Ball making it 2-

  • Car thief's Saxo spree

    POLICE have been left baffled by a thief who appears only to target Citroen Saxo cars. The offender has been on a crime spree in Chester-le-Street, but for reasons unknown to anyone, it seems he only targets the specific brand. To add to the confusion

  • The Albany Northern League Today

    Consett manager Ray Lish has warned his players about complacency. After last weekend's results went in their favour, Consett are now 15 points clear, and looking certainities to regain the First Division place they lost last season. But Lish has squashed

  • 28/11/03

    WIND FARM: THE proposed wind farm at the Stang Forest, near Barnard Castle, would, in my opinion, be desecration of the countryside bordering on criminal irresponsibility and I object most strongly to this. I also object to the further development of

  • Tax hike

    Sir, - I wonder how many people would agree with me that the insatiable appetite for raising taxes by central and local governments, police authorities, and the ever-increasing changes made by utility companies and the like are, without doubt, the mother

  • Nomad's joy at rail trials

    NOMAD Digital has successfully completed trials of its revolutionary system for providing a high-speed wireless internet service on trains. The Newcastle company has carried out tests of its WiFi technology on more than 1,000km of track on the UK rail

  • Annual Dinner

    David Harker, Chief Executive of Durham County Cricket Club, proposed the toast to the Foster's ECB North East Regional Premier League at the Annual Dinner held at The Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham City, writes Malcolm Pratt. Tony Clark, Regional Sales Director

  • Looking Back

    FROM this newspaper 100 years ago. - The Yorkshire home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Zetland has this week been honoured by another visit of members of the royal family, their Royal Highnesses Princess Christian and Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein

  • When a new life only causes strife

    A New Life Down Under (C4): The World's Most Powerful Celebrity (BBC2): ONE of these days, a family will go abroad to start a new life and everything will go according to plan. Until then, TV programme makers have ready-made dramas begging to have a camera

  • Mortgage market continues to thrive

    MORTGAGE lending looks set to continue steaming ahead, with a record number of new loans approved during October. The British Bankers' Association said a total of 270,500 mortgages were approved by the major banks during the month, collectively worth

  • Singers stage three seasonal concerts

    Three Christmas concerts are being given in the region by the Carol Andrews Singers. The first, featuring the international mixed voice choir, is at Aske Hall, Richmond, North Yorkshire, on Wednesday, at 7.30pm, in aid of St Teresa's Hospice, Darlington

  • Pioneering tips from inventor

    THE inventor of the wind-up radio, Trevor Baylis, will be guest speaker at a major science and technology conference. Venturefest York is the region's first exhibition of its kind for entrepreneurs and business start-ups. Budding inventors can hear his

  • Richmond and Zetland Harriers

    Sam Stanislaus, Northern Counties Indoor Multi-Events Champion last year as an under-15, has moved-up an age group. He took the opportunity to measure his winter training (running, jumping and throwing) by competing in an Open Indoor meeting at Sheffield

  • Engineering students honoured

    SIXTEEN students have been recognised for outstanding achievement and excelling in their specialist areas of engineering. Austin McNamara, executive director of County Durham's Learning and Skills Council, presented the Advanced Modern Apprentices with

  • Laws in form as Cestrians hit six

    Chester-le-Street Town: Town Juniors striker Chris Laws scored all his side's goals in Saturday's 6-0 demolition of West Denton at Slateyford Road in Newcastle. Laws was in no mood for complacency in the Juniors last match before their huge 3rd Round

  • So far from a Rovers return...

    Thirty years to the day since 5,000 funnelled to watch them draw 0-0 with Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup first round, Hall Lane in Willington is a Marie Celeste among football grounds. Nothing has changed except the noise level. In the fortressed clubhouse

  • More action at Catterick

    THE second meeting of Catterick's jumps season takes place on Wednesday when racing is scheduled to begin at 12.50. Oldham-based company Document Express Ltd sponsor for the first time at Catterick, supporting the longest race of the afternoon, a handicap

  • Web Spiders win prize

    A WEBSITE created by children at a primary school has won them an award. Dubbing themselves the Spiders on the Web, a small group of children at Framwellgate Primary, in Durham, have been busy weaving together a colourful and eye-catching website for

  • Bus victim 'killed unlawfully' - coroner

    A PENSIONER who died under the wheels of a minibus pulling out of a bus station was unlawfully killed, a coroner has ruled. Jenny Spedding, 86, suffered multiple injuries when she was dragged under the Arriva vehicle for half-a-mile through Durham City

  • Comment from The Northern Echo: Sending out a warning vote

    THE people of Northern Ireland have spoken. And because of the system of proportional representation used to elect members of the Assembly, there can be doubt about the message sent out by the people. It is clear there are serious doubts about the potential

  • Singers tune up for charity concert

    TICKETS are still available for a fundraising concert in support of the Macmillan Cancer Relief charity. The Macmillan Concert features Durham Cathedral organist James Lancelot conducting the Durham University Choral Society performing Vivaldi's Gloria

  • Beat bobbies are on the ball

    TWO beat bobbies have secured new strips for young footballers. PC Steve Shotton and PC Nigel Craig, who works from an office based at the Hermitage School in Chester-le-Street, have secured £300 worth of equipment after applying to Premiership League

  • Warning over stolen bow and arrows

    A STOLEN bow and arrows could prove fatal if they fall into the wrong hands, say police. The professional long bow and six aluminium arrows were taken from a garage in Fines Park, Annfield Plain, at about 9pm on Tuesday night last week. PC Kieron Walker

  • In search of the stoat - mysterious creature of myth and legend

    STOATS are among the most intriguing of our wild animals. There is a good deal of mystique about them, such as their supposed ability to hypnotise rabbits into fatal submission and the legend that they sometimes hunt in packs. Added to this is their ability

  • Demolition work 'reveals chimney's strength'

    CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save an historic mill chimney are defiant to the end. Strong winds meant a brief respite for the 150-year-old chimney, which is being demolished in Brompton, Northallerton. A day's work on the dismantling of the 160ft Wilford's

  • A year in the life of a Dales wood

    SOMEWHERE in the Yorkshire Dales there is a secret valley which Askrigg painter, Judith Bromley, and her dog Daisy go to at all seasons of the year, and she has recorded her thoughts and visions for everyone to enjoy in her second book. Come Down to the

  • Mowden link under scrutiny

    DARLINGTON Mowden Park's team manager, Jim Dyson, is to call for a special general meeting to discuss the link with Newcastle Falcons. The feeling has been growing within the club that the arrangement is too one-sided, and it has been brought to a head

  • Samurai sword attacker jailed for eight years

    A KNIFEMAN who terrorised townsfolk and attacked cars with a samurai sword has been jailed for eight years. Wayne Bates, 23, of Avon Crescent, Chilton Moor, Houghton-le-Spring, was jailed after a judge heard how he had threatened passers-by with a hunting

  • Thieves watch out

    BURGLARS and car thieves in Langbaurgh are being targeted in an operation designed to disrupt criminal activity in the run-up to Christmas. Operation Focus includes an increase in police patrols after dark, with extra attention paid to known offenders

  • Fish Tales

    White fields and a minus 3 degrees made for a hard penultimate round of the North East Winter League on the Lower reaches of the Tees. Diawa Cleveland rose to the occasion when they notched another win while reigning champions Newman Scott disastrously

  • Grain report

    By Robin Twizell, RMD Agriculture CEREAL markets remained very volatile but have recovered after last week's sharp falls. The general view is that supplies will remain tight across Europe for the rest of the season but recent falls should be taken as

  • New Market open gap at the top

    Tow Law Coors: Tow Law New Market A have managed to open out a three points gap at the top of the Captain's Table with the second place shared by three teams. The positions and points are 1st Tow Law New Market A 16 points; 2nd equal Cornsay Royal Oak

  • Mental health services need £7m

    NHS managers in the region are hoping to receive nearly £7m to improve mental health services. The improvements would be part of on-going £59m improvements to the way mental health services are provided across Teesside and County Durham. Part of the plans

  • Wellock's World: Jumping on the bandwagon

    I CAN scarcely believe it, but I feel a shred of sympathy for Richard Caborn, otherwise known as the Sports Minister. It's not his fault he holds that position as his appointment presumably came from the same high-ranking office which recalled him from

  • Dominant Norton win

    Norton and Stockton Ancients: Norton Under-15 A dominated their game against South Bank from the whistle, and in the first few seconds David Burns opened the scoring with a well taken goal. He followed not long after with another great goal. Southbank

  • The ultimate prize for Potters fans

    HARRY POTTER: QUIDDITCH WORLD CUP. Publisher: Electronic Arts. Formats: PC, PS2. Price: £39.99 THIS Christmas, two great licences will fight for gaming supremacy. Even the mighty FIFA 2004 will have to give way as Harry Potter goes head-to-head with Pop

  • Stadium boot sale 'could threaten town market'

    CONCERNS have been raised over how a proposed car boot sale at the Reynolds Arena could affect the livelihoods of Darlington market traders. Letters are being sent out this week to members of the Darlington Market Stall Holders' Association asking for

  • Parish referendum on hall loan causes concern

    A PARISH council's bid to improve its village hall has come under fire from some residents who have labelled the process undemocratic. A referendum on whether Rudby Parish Council should borrow £200,000 to help fund improvements at the hall closes on

  • Jackson Anderson Accountants Spennymoor Sunday League

    ELDON Arms dented North Briton's Second Division title assault with a narrow, 1-0 win over the promotion hopefuls. The Brit, who have been enjoying life at the top of Division Two, compounded their recent league blip with this further frustrating result

  • Panic-stricken motorists steal smiley speed sign

    TWO MEN, who mistakenly thought they had been caught speeding on camera, made off with the evidence - an electronic speed sign. The £3,000 speed sign, nicknamed Smiley Sid, which smiles or frowns at passing cars depending on whether the vehicle is within

  • Longhorn Hardware Darlington and District League

    Heighington 3 Hole in the Wall 2: Wall took the lead midway through the first half when Gary Wilson fired home from the edge of the box. They made it two seven minutes before the break when Jeff Coates capitalised on defensive hesitancy to win the ball

  • Shop Talk: Cards that won't do you credit

    Going Christmas shopping? A bit short of cash? Please, PLEASE, think twice before using a store card. It's so easy. There you are in a big store full of sparkly lights and Christmas music and there are all these lovely things you'd like to buy for yourself

  • Hero saved driver despite own injury

    A MECHANIC has been hailed a hero by work colleagues after preventing a trailer from crushing a lorry driver and rescuers. Steve Brewster, 36, from North Skelton, pushed down on a lever during an hour-long rescue operation to save a trapped lorry driver

  • Cultures unite to provide a carnival extravaganza

    THE spectacular sights and sounds of Bollywood lit up the sky last night as crowds of people were treated to a captivating fusion of cultures. Urban Britain was merged with Indian tradition to create a carnival atmosphere in Darlington, which hosted the

  • Stanley Sunday League

    On a day that saw the league and cup programme decimated by the weather, Pelton Fell WMC had a good win by 3-1 over South Moor Sports. Graham Carr led the way with two of the goals and Frank Tiffin struck the other for the Fell with (2) and Frank Tiffin

  • Axe attack soldier cleared of attempting to kill man

    A YOUNG soldier who buried a pickaxe into the head of a colleague has been cleared of attempted murder, but still faces jail. Private Grant Kenyon, 18, had denied attempting to kill Lance Corporal Konrad Bisping but pleaded guilty to causing grievous

  • Dispute as firm quits county

    A RISING star in the business world has deserted its County Durham base amid accusations that poor technology had cost it vital business. Reevu, innovator of the first cycle helmets to contain a rear-view mirror, has moved to temporary accommodation in

  • Black grouse get orange alert

    ORANGE footballs are being suspended from problem power lines in the North Pennines in a fight to save rare birds. Conservationists and NEDL (Northern Electric Distribution) have put their heads together to come up with the extraordinary way to stop black

  • Bush stuns troops with top secret Iraq visit

    President George Bush made a top secret "thank-you" visit to amazed US troops in Baghdad last night. Even first lady Laura Bush was not told about the trip until two hours before the President sneaked out of his Texas ranch, avoiding reporters. The visit

  • Ascot win points to bright future for Our Armageddon

    "I'LL certainly enter him in the Arkle," said trainer Richard Guest after Our Armageddon won the Ascot novice chase on Saturday, adding: "This horse could be anything." He has certainly given our Fifteen to Follow a tremendous start and Larry McGrath

  • Builders back changes to outlaw the conmen

    THE building trade is backing calls for changes to the law to protect vulnerable householders from rogue workers. A campaign launched this week by The Northern Echo and the region's trading standards chiefs is demanding an end to door-to-door cold calling

  • Hockey

    Wilton 1st continued their impressive unbeaten run with a 3-0 home win over Tynedale 1st. The Teessiders struggled to take control of the first half, Tynedale employing spoiling tactics in what appeared to be an attempt to grab a point from the match,

  • Pupils taught Indian dancing

    AN entire school had a taste of ancient Indian culture, when pupils took part in a dance workshop. Sanchita Banerjee, from the London-based Annapurna Dance Company, visited Bournmoor Primary School, near Chester-le-Street last week, when she taught children

  • England boss offered new contract

    The Football Association yesterday revealed their wish to keep Sven-Goran Eriksson as England head coach for as long as possible, and confirmed they have offered the Swede a new four-year contract. Eriksson has been made the offer in the last few days

  • Wind farm opponents voice concern about consultation

    OPPONENTS of the latest wind farm proposal for Teesdale have voiced their concerns about what they see as a lack of consultation. As many as 25 turbines could be erected on a ridge between the A66 and the Stang Forest near Barnard Castle if the idea mooted

  • Solid Lawyers performance earns points

    Thirsk Falcons: Thirsk Falcons Under-12s were playing Northallerton in only their second home game of the season and they were without two regular players including their leading scorer. Thirsk kicked off and lost the ball but quickly won it back, and

  • Basketball

    Durham League Division One Cup, East Durham & Houghall Comm. College A v Trimdon Comm. College: The beginning was an even game with Lee Norton the only threat for Trimdon and Davie kept College close. A Ditchburn foul followed by two technical fouls

  • Samurai man caused chaos

    A NORTH-EAST man armed with a Samurai sword maniac brought terror to motorists on a busy main road. Wayne Bates walked along the centre of the carriageway brandishing the 4ft blade at drivers. He had already failed to take one woman driver hostage and

  • Moors enjoy double delight

    Spennymoor Boxing Academy completed a great double beginning with another successful dinner tournament, and ending when Robert Ellis, director of coaching, received a prestigous honour at last week's Local Heroes Awards. Ellis was named the npower Leading

  • College to open a new style of centre

    STAFF and students at Askham Bryan College are celebrating after the Government named it a Centre of Vocational Excellence and awarded it £600,000. The highly-prized CoVE award will, over the next three years, see the development of a food chain technology

  • The woman who really knew Spike

    At the depths of his worst depression, Spike Milligan gave his agent a gun and asked her to shoot him. Nick Morrison meets the woman who was by Spike's side for over 30 years. NORMA Farnes found it easy to tell when Spike was coming out of his depression

  • Training offered to businesses

    A PARTNERSHIP between providers of vocational training in County Durham is resulting in free management training being offered to local companies. Newton Aycliffe group Itec North-East Limited has joined forces with Communicators Training Associates Limited

  • Perri's designs brought to life in house

    A STUDENT'S design skills will be brought to life in the show home of a housing development. Perri Newton was one of several pupils at Sedgefield Community College who entered a competition run by house builder Bryant Homes to design a bedroom for its

  • Farmers to face quad bike checks

    FARMERS in Teesdale and Weardale who use unsafe quad bikes are being targeted by inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The inspectors will be visiting farms during December to check that people using quad bike are adequately trained,

  • Mayor supports plans for more police on beat

    PROPOSALS to put more police on the beat in Cleveland have been welcomed by Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon. Chief Constable Sean Price wants to put a beat bobby in all 71 wards in the force area - triggering a 28 per cent increase in its £5.6m share of

  • 'Buying' seats will be a dramatic help

    Theatre-lovers are being given the chance to make their name in drama. Northern Stage is offering enthusiasts the chance of immortality with a new seat "selling" scheme. From May next year, the group will be transforming the outdated Newcastle Playhouse

  • Advice pack about underage sales

    TRADING standards officers are warning about the sale of alcohol to young people in the run-up to Christmas. An advice pack is being distributed to off-licences in the Wearside area. It follows previous campaigns and prosecutions of traders who have fallen

  • Murder trial told accused was lying

    A MAN accused of using a baseball bat to bludgeon his uncle to death was accused yesterday of telling "fairy stories" to a court. Simon Tannahill, 20, has denied murdering 53-year-old George Button. At Newcastle Crown Court, Toby Hedworth, cross examining

  • New policy on public arts wins backing

    A GROUND-BREAKING policy was accepted yesterday that could transform the design of buildings and the way in which public space is developed. Hambleton district councillors have given their backing to a public arts policy in the hope it will help create

  • Bereaved parents say thank you for support

    THE mother of a teenage hit-and-run victim last night thanked everyone who had supported her family in their darkest hours. Ian and Lavinia Gourley were devastated when their son Ian, 15, was killed after being struck by a stolen car on playing fields

  • Calendar girls meet the full monty boys at launch party

    A GROUP of slimmers, who stripped off to raise money for charity, have enlisted Darlington Round Table to help them launch their calendar. Women from Changes slimming club, based in Darlington, lost their clothes, after shedding the pounds, and created

  • Centre will help people with hearing and sight problems

    A CENTRE which will provide support for people with sight and hearing impairments is set to open in Darlington. Councillors are being asked to make £25,000 available to launch the project, which will be based at Vane House. The resource centre being planned

  • Free-scoring Crook in seventh heaven

    Crook Town Ladies: Crook once again Crook Town had a brilliant away win to put them joint second on points. Playing against Killingworth, Nicky Duckling opened the scoring after ten minutes when she took a pass from Amanda Carver and baffled their defence

  • Top trainer to share secrets of success

    AT the age of 22, Jane Croarkin was told her career as a professional competition trainer was over. A crashing fall while eventing resulted in three spinal operations and her surgeon advised her not to ride again. But she was determined not to give up

  • Tees rower wins national recognition

    KRISTINA Stiller of Low Worsall, near Yarm, who started sculling only a year ago with Tees Rowing Club, has been invited to attend the Great Britain World Class Potential Camp in Switzerland during the week before Christmas. The St Peter's School, York

  • Honour for stalwart

    LABOUR stalwart Lord Dormand has been honoured for his decades of service to public life. The 84-year-old peer received an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Lord Puttnam, Chancellor of Sunderland University. The miner's son from Haswell was an educationalist

  • Pupils provide parents with an insight to Indian life

    PUPILS showed their parents what they have learned about the culture of India. Youngsters in years five and six at Bullion Lane Primary School, Chester-le-Street, have been studying different aspects of Indian life. They invited members of their families

  • Yorkshire's new export - clotted cream

    YORKSHIRE clotted cream is going down well ... even in Cornwall. For since Sue and Angus Gaudie launched their organic cream, they have had numerous customers wanting to send it to relatives in the South-West. "We have had a very good response from them

  • No risk posed by defence station

    A huge top secret radar station which is set to be part of George Bush's ''Stars Wars'' missile defence programme poses no cancer threat to the public, according to a new study. The Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale Primary Care Trust (PCT) commissioned

  • Newton Aycliffe

    Fishburn golfing enthusiast Lis Greenwell took the honours as the top golfer of the year at the annual presentation night of Newton Aycliffe Woodham Golf and Country Club Ladies Section held in the Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield. She received the Club

  • Special livestock sales

    HAWES. Tues. Fwd: 12 cattle, 70 store cattle, 1,998 sheep. Christmas show of cattle judged by JF Haig, Kirkby Stephen. Steer champion, Lim x, F&B Smith, Westhouse 220p/kg £1452; 2 W & M Orme, Stalling Busk 158p; 3 R & R Gornall, Dent 127p.

  • Shop wins title for its snack ability

    A CORNER shop has won a national title for its expert knowledge of the public's love of snacks. The Spa store in Belmont High Street has been named Snack Retailer of the Year at the Asian Trader Awards. The shop beat thousands of stores nationwide to

  • Brewery wants to turn pub into heritage visitor centre

    PLANS are in the pipeline to create a heritage visitor centre at one of the region's oldest breweries. Camerons Lion Brewery, in Hartlepool, has applied for planning permission to develop a former pub on the brewery site into a heritage and exhibition

  • Burton's Bytes: The ultimate prize for Potters fans

    HARRY POTTER: QUIDDITCH WORLD CUP. Publisher: Electronic Arts. Formats: PC, PS2. Price: £39.99 THIS Christmas, two great licences will fight for gaming supremacy. Even the mighty FIFA 2004 will have to give way as Harry Potter goes head-to-head with Pop

  • Overseas bidders take a shot for Captain Cook's pistol

    A GUN once owned by the region's greatest explorer is to be auctioned next month and is expected to sell for more than £15,000. The rare flintlock pistol was owned by Captain James Cook and was at his side when he discovered Australia and became the first

  • Armed raiders threaten cinema staff

    A POLICE hunt has been mounted at Scarborough after two staff at the resort's Hollywood Plaza Cinema were threatened by armed raiders. A police spokesman saids one member of the staff had arrived to open the cinema, in North Marine Road, and was confronted

  • Kicking bad management into touch

    Motivating a workforce can be a fine balancing act between carrot and stick - there are rich rewards for those who get it right and disaster for those who don't. It applies to all levels of life and the best example of a job well done was the superb achievement

  • Crazy mixed-up kid shouldn't be blamed

    SO, the weekend finally sorted out the seasons. A few degrees of frost and the garden no longer entertains the strangest neighbours: winter jasmine, chamomile, hellebore, nasturtium, holly berries and geranium. And what the half-inch of crocus shoots

  • Just a degree or so apart

    TWIN sisters Nichola and Joanna Hornsby graduated from their degree courses at the same ceremony this week. The 26-year-olds collected diplomas at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Tuesday for the different subjects they studied at the University of Teesside

  • Prison officers praised

    PRISON officers who risked their lives pulling a prisoner from a burning cell have been praised by a judge. The officers at Deerbolt Young Offenders Institute at Barnard Castle rescued Anthony Thomas Webb, 19, after he set fire to a mattress in his cell

  • Hodgson looking for loan double

    DARLINGTON are still on the look out for two more loan signings after failing in their bid to land striker Jamie Cade. Quakers boss David Hodgson missed out on Cade when the young Middlesbrough star opted for a move to Second Division Colchester United

  • Christmas starts here

    CHESTER-le-Street launches its Christmas festivities this weekend. Town crier Marjorie Dodds will introduce a programme of events at midday this Saturday, outside the Holiday Centre on Front Street. Street entertainment will be provided by the town's

  • Parish to commission safety survey on housing

    A SURVEY to determine the safety of a proposed housing development in Eaglescliffe has been commissioned. Last week, Egglescliffe Parish Council was asked by residents to commission a survey by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents on a planning

  • Arson attack on classroom

    ARSONISTS targeted a school in the early hours of yesterday. The culprits smashed a window at Dodmire Junior School, in Rydal Road, Darlington, before throwing a bottle containing accelerant into a classroom. Firefighters put out the blaze, which damaged

  • Council heeds family firm's development plea

    A BUSINESSMAN said he could face massive debts if a scheme for flats in Middleton St George was turned down a second time. Rob Maxey told Darlington Borough Council planning committee last week that his firm Ernest Bennett Saws had been in the village

  • Anger mounts at centre closure

    PARENTS have spoken out against plans to close a centre that caters for adults with learning difficulties in Derwentside. The Pontop Centre in Annfield Plain, near Stanley, is one of six facing closure to meet a Government order that people with learning

  • Transcend debut could be first step in bid for Gold

    LORD TRANSCEND has already been talked about as potential Cheltenham Gold Cup material so all eyes will be on Howard Johnson's star when he makes his long-awaited debut over fences at Ayr this afternoon (1.00). Even though Howard has never hidden his

  • Farmers to face quad bike checks

    FARMERS in Teesdale and Weardale who use unsafe quad bikes are being targeted by inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The inspectors will be visiting farms during December to check that people using quad bike are adequately trained,

  • Youth's killer jailed for life

    A MAN who stabbed a teenager to death after a drink and drugs binge was jailed for life on Tuesday. The trial of Sean Matson,20, was in its fifth day and the prosecution had just ended its case when he changed his plea. Matson had denied murdering 17-

  • Caller waits 15 minutes in vain for police to answer

    A SUSPECTED bogus caller may have escaped because the North Yorkshire police call handling system failed again, a Richmond resident has said. Coun John Harris tried to contact police at lunchtime on Wednesday after a man who called at his door and tried

  • Grassroots: Yarm

    CHARITY BOOST: A collection by Yarm District Lions at Somerfield Store, Healaugh Park, Yarm, on Friday and Saturday, November 21 and 22, raised £803. Members the Lions packed bags for customers to raise the money. This year's total exceeded the previous

  • Parents fight to save day centre

    PARENTS have vowed to fight plans to close a flagship day centre for adults with learning difficulties. Durham County Council says the Durham Centre, at Aykley Heads in Durham City, which is used by about 100 people, will be shut in the next two to three

  • Store's extension likely to go ahead

    A SUPERMARKET group's second bid to extend its Harrogate store is likely to get the go-ahead after it withdrew controversial plans to add two separate retail units. Sainsbury's wants to increase the size of the Wetherby Road store, built on part of the

  • Anxious Newcastle stumble past Swiss

    NEWCASTLE secured their safe passage to the third round of the UEFA Cup, but needed an own goal to complete a home-and-away double over plucky Basel at St. James' Park last night. Sir Bobby Robson's men were a pale shadow of the side who came from behind

  • Neale inquiry findings will be delayed

    HEALTH Secretary John Reid is unlikely to receive the Richard Neale Inquiry report until after the New Year, it was disclosed last night. Officials running the independent inquiry into the disgraced former North Yorkshire gynaecologist had hoped to hand

  • 'I'm too busy now to worry about cancer'

    Treatment for cancer meant that Gill Harding was unlikely ever to have children. She tells Barry Nelson how she beat the odds. GILL Harding remembers the look of surprise that crossed the cancer specialist's face when she told him: "I'm pregnant." Gill

  • Mart prices

    BARNARD CASTLE. Wed. Fwd: 1,679 sheep, 1,473 prime & ltwt lambs, 206 cast sheep. Lambs lt to 110p av 107.4p; std to 120.5p av 111.7p; med to 121p av 110.5p; hvy to 110.3p av 103.4p. Cast sheep Cont to £64; Suff to £49.50; Mule to £48; Swale to £36.50

  • Kicking bad management into touch

    Motivating a workforce can be a fine balancing act between carrot and stick - there are rich rewards for those who get it right and disaster for those who don't. It applies to all levels of life and the best example of a job well done was the superb achievement

  • Annual Primary School X-country

    The annual Primary School X-Country, organised by Quakers RC, seems to have become a victim of its own success. This year became so large with 23 schools being presented that the venue had to be changed at short notice to Hummersknott School. A total

  • Darlington

    Darlington Under-14s were away to Middlesbrough and the first real frost of the year brought confusion and a slight delay but eventually play got underway on a perfect pitch at Marton Collage. Perhaps influenced by Jonny Wilkinson's kicking performances

  • Drive to catch cross-border criminals

    Criminals have been warned they face a crackdown. Police in North and West Yorkshire are mounting joint patrols in the Harrogate and Selby areas in the run-up to Christmas. Operation Waltz is a seasonal campaign to curb cross-border criminals while at

  • Boys move to the street beat

    A WORKSHOP designed to get more boys on the dance floor has been declared a success by its organisers. Two days of classes led by professional dancers has seen 140 year nine boys at Richmond School learning about jazz, contemporary and street dance. The

  • Hodgson looking for loan double

    DARLINGTON are still on the look out for two more loan signings after failing in their bid to land striker Jamie Cade. Quakers boss David Hodgson missed out on Cade when the young Middlesbrough star opted for a move to Second Division Colchester United

  • Residents must be out by Christmas as home closes

    THE only nursing home in the upper dales area of Richmondshire is to close on Christmas Eve, with elderly residents being rehoused possibly as far away as Middlesbrough. Senior staff at Thornton Lodge, at Thornton Rust, near Aysgarth, said problems recruiting

  • A horsewoman's tale of grief, hope and a cross-country ride

    WHEN Ann Bowes gets the bit between her teeth, there is no stopping her. She has written, produced and marketed her first book and dedicated it to the memory of her 25-year-old son, who drowned nine years ago. Riding For Life is her account of her sponsored

  • Mortgage market continues to thrive

    MORTGAGE lending looks set to continue steaming ahead, with a record number of new loans approved during October. The British Bankers' Association said a total of 270,500 mortgages were approved by the major banks during the month, collectively worth

  • Don't feed those ponies, they have a job to do

    RARE Exmoor ponies have been brought in to help conserve one of the North-East's most important wildlife sites. As an experiment, the chestnut brown ponies are being used to eat an unwelcome species of grass growing on Thrislington Plantation, a national

  • Family photographs discovered

    A RETIRED businessman is hoping to be able to put someone in the picture after discovering a hidden hoard of old family snapshots. The 175 photographs discovered by Peter Sotheran while clearing out an attic, date from the Twenties. They consist of an

  • Samurai sword attacker jailed for eight years

    A KNIFEMAN who terrorised townsfolk and attacked cars with a samurai sword has been jailed for eight years. Wayne Bates, 23, of Avon Crescent, Chilton Moor, Houghton-le-Spring, was jailed after a judge heard how he had threatened passers-by with a hunting

  • Newcastle's rise through the ranks

    NEWCASTLE is fast becoming one of the most popular cities for business in the UK, according to a survey. The city ranked third, ahead of London, in the research - a dramatic improvement on the 16th place berth it occupied when the survey was done two

  • Goalkeeper's goal denies Spraire Lads

    Spraire Lads Under-8s, sponsored by Astra Transport, and Stokesley Jnrs produced some good, entertaining football. Spraire started the stronger and were a goal up after five minutes when Liam Mckue converted a corner from man of the match, Jonathan Dye

  • The UniBond League

    Bishop Auckland have had a "very positive" meeting with Shildon over their proposed ground improvements at Dean Street. Bishops have been given a list of improvements to be made at Dean Street in order for them to satisfy the league's criteria for the

  • Telewest poised for

    DEBT-LADEN cable company Telewest has moved into the final stages of its life-saving financial restructuring. Telewest's new holding company Telewest Global has filed statements with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) which should enable

  • Consett Sunday League

    Michael Pitt continued his devastating start to the season with yet another hat-trick as leaders Lanchester Social collected another three points. Lee McVittie helped himself to two others as the village side recorded a 5-1 win over Station Ex Juniors

  • Mystery of Gala Theatre inquiry

    AN inquiry was under way last night into the running of a North-East theatre which, despite a troubled start appeared to be back on track. In a surprise announcement, Durham City Council deputy chief executive Brian Spears revealed an internal investigation

  • All invited to Coxhoe's crunch clash

    COXHOE Boys Club are urging football fans from across the region come and watch their top of the table clash with Whitburn FC tonight. For just £1 anyone wishing to go along and support either side at Spennymoor United's Brewery Field ground will gain

  • Mike Gough Sports Hartlepool Sunday League

    Premier Division, West Park 2 Shakespeare 4: A much improved performance by Shakespeare saw them home against a weakened West Park side who now find themselves in trouble at the wrong end of the table. David Lahney put the visitors ahead from a tight

  • Taxpayers fund party

    PRISON officers guarding some of Britain's most notorious killers are to hold a £15,000 Christmas party - at the taxpayers' expense. Managers at Frankland Jail, near Durham City, have defended the party in the face of criticism from some of their own

  • Warning not to waste water

    DESPITE a week of wet weather, consumers across Yorkshire are being advised to use their water wisely. Reservoir levels across the Yorkshire Water area have risen for the second week running and are now standing at less than half full. The levels have

  • Bishop Auckland Bridge Club

    Results for November 20 NEBA Simultaneous Pairs in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief North/South: 1 B Seery and S Goldstraw 67.50 per cent; 2 J and E Blackett 55.83; 3 M Hook and J Burrell 48.33 East/West: 1 Gordon and J Dobson 62.08; 2 A Mawston and A Race

  • Johnson Matthey's early returns from takeover

    THE award-winning former Synetix company helped spark bigger profits for speciality chemicals group Johnson Matthey over the past six months. The group saw profits jump four per cent to £97.5m on the back of a 28 per cent increase in its catalysts division

  • Local produce on sale as first farm shop opens in city

    THE first farm shop in Ripon officially opened its doors at noon yesterday. The appropriately named Fresh Fields Farm Shop is the brainchild of farmer David Dale and his fiancee Juliet Hall. It specialises in selling produce from local farms and is also

  • Hunt protestors ambush rural minister at market towns launch

    HUNT supporters protesting against a proposed ban on their sport greeted Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael when he arrived in Thirsk to throw his weight behind a special event underlining the value of Yorkshire market towns. About 30 protestors who

  • Second home owners could see discounts slashed

    OWNERS of second homes in Hambleton look set to face higher council tax bills. Members of the district council's cabinet were yesterday being urged to use a change in the law and cut discounts - currently standing at 50pc. If members agreed, these discounts

  • Cafe bars go head to head

    TWO companies are to go head to head when they both open new caf bars in Chester-le-Street. Luminar Leisure, one of the biggest leisure companies in Britain, is to begin work on its £1.2m American-style bar in just over two weeks. Meanwhile, Chester-le-Street

  • Johnson Matthey's early returns from takeover

    THE award-winning former Synetix company helped spark bigger profits for speciality chemicals group Johnson Matthey over the past six months. The group saw profits jump four per cent to £97.5m on the back of a 28 per cent increase in its catalysts division

  • Thirsk and Sowerby Harriers

    The Roundhay Park five was an extra event arranged to replace the cancelled Richmond fixture in the Club Championship series of races. The route was different from the usual because of restoration work and the morning was bright and clear, if windy at

  • Call for CCTV after toilets vandalised

    A CALL has been made for CCTV cameras in Bedale after the town's only public toilets were put out of action by vandals who committed £600-worth of damage. It has also been suggested that the town council should follow the example of Middleham by warning

  • Hathaway and Cope Stokesley League

    St Mary's College OB 15 British Steel Sports 1: College secretary Tony McTaggart marked his first full game for some time with a second half hat trick as St. Mary's ran riot against a British Steel Sports. With McTaggart pulling the strings in midfield

  • Successful year earns Bedale golfer top award

    KEVIN Ward of Bedale Golf Club is a worthy winner of the Ackrill trophy as Harrogate and District Union golfer of the year for 2003. An all-round sportsman who has only had 20 minutes tuition in his entire golfing career, he has also played football for

  • Darlington Judo Club

    Darlington Judo Club achieved their best ever success when they won four medals at the Junior National Championships. In the six-year history of the Dolphin Centre-based club they had never won four medals in total, so to win four in one weekend was a

  • South Cleveland Garages Teesside League

    Division One, Bedale FC 2, Grangetown BC 1: Bedale, who beat the League leaders last week, pulled off another shock when they dented Grangetown Boys Club's hopes of retaining the championship. Andrew Whitling with his first for the club gave Bedale an

  • Rob first in vet stakes

    Durham City Harriers: Leading veteran athlete Rob Hand had an outstanding run at the Brampton to Carlisle ten-mile road race. Rob was always up there until the closing stages of the race and ended up in sixth place overall but first veteran in a very

  • Comedian play catch-up Castle

    Tow Law Scottish Courage League: Tow Law Dan's Castle A had their lead at the top cut to three points despite winning at Tow Law New Market B. But the second placed Sunniside Comedian almost pulled off a whitewash victory on their visit to Tow Law Station

  • TV review

    A New Life Down Under (C4) The World's Most Powerful Celebrity (BBC2) ONE of these days, a family will go abroad to start a new life and everything will go according to plan. Until then, TV programme makers have ready-made dramas begging to have a camera

  • Once-threatened theatre's £2m appeal

    A THEATRE in the region, which almost closed seven years ago, is launching a £2m appeal to boost its future as box office takings show a dramatic increase. The appeal is launched today by Harrogate Theatre, in North Yorkshire, after news that box office

  • Not so great to be thin

    SO the thin lasses have finally woken up and smelt the full-fat double espresso latte with mocha topping and double cream. After years of starving themselves and making the rest of us feel like baby elephants - celebrities are finally turning their backs

  • Dales care gap

    THE closure of the only nursing home in the upper Richmondshire dales is significant blow to the area, if somewhat inevitable. It has been in receivership some months and it was announced this week its last resident must leave by Christmas. With only

  • Quakers

    The second of the NYSD Cross Country races was held at Windlestone Hall, Rushyford on Sunday, November 16. On a fantastic day James Snook competed in the Under 13 Boys race and finished 13th out of 22 runners over the 2.7K course to finish in a time of

  • Darlington Mowden Park

    Both the Under-18 and Under-16 Mowden Park Girls' Teams travelled to Redcar for concurrent fixtures. Their spirits were high and the atmosphere electric as it is not very often that they play at the same place on the same day; their support for each other

  • Travellers Rest make up ground on leaders

    Crook League: Crook Travellers Rest A were able to move up into third place in the First Division after they only dropped two points to the visiting Crook Olde Horse Shoe A, who took a singles point through Gavin Witton and the doubles through Dave Leighton

  • Given could have been sent off, Robson

    SIR BOBBY ROBSON admitted Shay Given could have seen red in the first half of last night's UEFA Cup victory over FC Basel. Danish referee Knud Erik Fisker booked Mario Cantaluppi after 27 minutes for diving after Given appeared to bring down the midfielder

  • Stained glass window remembers good friend of village

    ON SUNDAY morning, in a full Christ Church, Great Ayton, a stained glass window was dedicated to the memory of the Rev Ted Appleyard, vicar of the parish from 1968-78 and friend of the village in his retirement from 1985 to his death aged 82 in 2001.

  • Be protected on that quad bike

    THE Health and Safety Executive is to target quad bike users in Teesdale and Weardale next month. Inspectors will visit farms to check that quad bike users have been adequately trained, that they wear suitable head protection, and that their vehicles

  • Worthington CIU Winter League

    Wheatley Hill A opened out a two point gap at the top of the First Division after they only dropped one point to the visiting Cockton Hill, whilst second placed, Spennymoor A dropped two to the visiting Witton Gilbert. Fishburn A moved three points behind

  • Review: Northern Sinfonia, Newcastle City Hall

    NORTHERN Sinfonia demonstrated its versatility when it took on some lesser known works at its latest concert at Newcastle City Hall. The programme formed part of an ambitious project to explore piano concertos by some of England's distinctive but neglected

  • Review: The Happy Prince, Gulbenkian Studio Theatre, Newcastle

    NORTHERN Stage Ensemble's Christmas show for the under-sixes is heaven sent from a short story by Oscar Wilde. Two angels (Tony Neilson and Sophie Trott) land on Earth in "a special place" - and it really is something special in Imogen Cloet's designs

  • Pressing job soothes your conscience

    A FIRM based in Eaglescliffe is providing a guilt-free ironing service to people in Cleveland and County Durham. Four months ago, Robin Scott and his partner, Tina McKenzie, set up Homba a next-day ironing service which covers Stockton, Ingleby Barwick

  • Police target car tax dodgers

    ROAD tax dodgers have been left with nowhere to hide after a new campaign was launched. On Monday, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency teamed up with the police to clamp down on road tax cheats in County Durham. Clamping teams patrolling the streets

  • Sunderland Catholic Club Over-40s League

    In Division Two Billingham Town are experiencing a lean spell and need to find their early season form, they lost 2-1 at home to Hylton Castle and are now second from bottom. They led 1-0 at the interval and looked like gaining a home win but Hylton came

  • Durham Alliance

    Birtley Town Reserves shared the points with a 2-2 draw away to Durham Victoria Bridge. Micky Barker put Durham ahead slotting the ball past the keeper after receiving a nice through ball from Dave Pratt. The penalty hammered home by Nick Bradley equalised

  • Reward offer after sheep stolen

    RUSTLERS have stolen 41 sheep from a farmer in Catterick Village, in a seemingly planned operation. Thieves stole the animals from Martin Buckton, of Brough Meadows, between Saturday, November 8, and Tuesday, November 11, after building a pen in the field

  • Charolais success for Malton pair

    NOTED North Yorkshire Charolais breeders Mick and Jean Hayhurst of Kirkby Misperton, Malton, had several successes at Carlisle, on Saturday. Whitecliffe Taurus CH22, a 20-month old bull by the 28,000gns Perth champion, Brampton Nacodar, and out of the

  • Dinsdale heroics not enough for Lasses

    Darlington Spraire Lasses: Spraire Under-13s battled boldly but were unable to get the better of a strong Blyth side losing 6-1 at home. Blyth took an early lead in the first minute with a neatly taken goal. Joanna Dinsdale made some fine saves throughout

  • Pye takes Vic Boyes trophy win

    THE Middlesbrough Motor Club had a massive entry of 130 for their annual Vic Boyes trophy trial, held on Sunday at Clutterbeck Farm near Danby. The course was over three laps of 12 sections and David Pye from Great Ayton, riding a Sherco, lost just 15

  • Officers to get bravery award

    TWO fearless police officers have been hailed as heroes for risking their own lives to stop a man from diving off a 60ft high bridge. One of the Durham duo, Sergeant Sue Robinson, is already the region's bravest bobby following a separate incident earlier

  • Worker's hand was pulled into cutter

    A TEENAGER underwent a four-hour operation to save his hand after it was dragged into a metal cutting machine. Two tendons and five nerves were damaged as Ian Bannister's hand was caught by a milling machine at The NETA Training Trust school at Portrack

  • Hunt for dog owner draws blank

    A THREE-legged Jack Russell found wandering around a cricket pitch, has left a club steward stumped. The small dog, which is thought to be just under a year old, was found walking around the grounds of Durham City Cricket Club, in Green Lane, by steward

  • Bedale, Seniors Stableford

    Two further Friday morning rounds for the elderly gentlemen, the first played in wet weather the second on a cold and frosty morning with trollies and buggies not allowed, which meant that bags had to be carried. But this burden did not discourage some

  • Pony dates

    British Horse Society. - Dec 9: Introduction to bridleways research day at Summer House (six miles north of Scotch Corner) between 10-4pm. Anyone interested in local bridleways is welcome. Entry is £10 per person including refreshments and lunch. Call

  • Teen escapes jail sentence after theft

    A TEENAGE girl, who stole from her employers to pay off a £600 phone bill run up by her ex-boyfriend, narrowly escaped jail today. The 17-year-old sobbed as she pleaded guilty to the thefts, which occurred over several months, from a store in the Cornmill

  • Bishop Auckland

    Bishop Auckland rugby union club is to play host to the Durham Tigers amateur rugby league side nest year. The Tigers will play their home games at the West Mills ground in Bishop Auckland on Friday evenings, starting at the end of April. "Durham Tigers

  • Farmers' gift to the future

    A TEESDALE couple came third in a national farm conservation award. Maurice and Cath Toward of Herdship Farm received a cheque for £250 and a miniature replica of the Silver Lapwing Trophy from the Princess Royal in London on Tuesday. "The outstanding

  • Durham ARC

    Durham travelled to York last weekend to take part in the Small Boats Head. The event is held over a 3km course on the river Ouse through the centre of the city, and runs over three divisions. Each boat is timed on the course and the fastest time of all

  • Pudsey safe and sound

    Staff at Asda in Stanley organised a walkabout in the town by Pudsey Bear, as part of Children in Need last week. But alarm bells were sounded when the mascot went "missing." A mock police operation was mounted and the young bear was soon reunited with

  • Training offered to businesses

    A PARTNERSHIP between providers of vocational training in County Durham is resulting in free management training being offered to local companies. Newton Aycliffe group Itec North-East Limited has joined forces with Communicators Training Associates Limited

  • Show goes on for amateur drama group

    HAVING just brought down the curtains on its latest show, an amateur drama group is busy preparing for the next. The Sedgefield Players have started rehearsals for the pantomime Jack and The Beanstalk, which will be staged at Sedgefield Parish Hall from

  • Plans for derelict mill are debated

    PLANS for the renovation of a derelict mill, which has been the centre of controversy for several years, look likely to be given permission. A new set of plans to convert Thorngate Mill, Barnard Castle, into 16 flats have been submitted to Teesdale District

  • Leaders welcome car park decision

    APPROVAL of controversial plans to turn open grassland into a temporary car park was last night welcomed by civic leaders. But Durham City Council must win the blessing of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) after a public inquiry

  • Councils end legal battle

    A BATTLE between two North-East councils, which has cost thousands of pounds in legal fees, was finally brought to a halt yesterday. Durham County Council and Darlington Borough Council agreed there would be no more legal proceedings after a six-year

  • 25,000 in the running for £500

    A LUCKY shopper is going to be able to spend until they drop at a Teesside mall. Vouchers worth £500 will be the first prize drawn as part of a Christmas Super Draw at the Cleveland Shopping Centre, in Middlesbrough, on Monday to celebrate six months

  • Jumping on the bandwagon

    I CAN scarcely believe it, but I feel a shred of sympathy for Richard Caborn, otherwise known as the Sports Minister. It's not his fault he holds that position as his appointment presumably came from the same high-ranking office which recalled him from

  • Poor show

    Sir, - This letter relates to the planting recently undertaken on the White Mare roundabout at the end of Ingramgate in Thirsk. The roundabout sits at the entrance to Thirsk for motorists coming off several main roads, from the A19 North and South, from

  • Grant boosts village facilities

    A SMALL community near Stokesley is getting a big boost to its leisure facilities. Hambleton District Council has helped secure recreational land for the village of Faceby. The sale of the land next to the village hall was finalised last week. The council

  • Students' ordeal pays dividends

    A MIX of curry, beans, custard and gravy was tipped over two students in the name of charity. Kellie McGraw, 16, and Craig Brudenell, 18, both A-level students at Bede College, Billingham, sat in a bath of the gunk for hours. They raised more than £200

  • Aids Day event

    YOUNG people in east Durham have been invited to take part in an event to mark World Aids Day. Specialist health promotion staff from Easington Primary Care Trust and education workers will be on hand at Peterlee College on Monday to offer advice and