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CROSSWORD SOLUTION
www.wittonlewear.org.uk www.wittonlewear.org.uk Page 1Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019Page 20 Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019
EASTWOODGROUNDS & GARDENS
PROFESSIONAL AND RELIABLE
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LANDSCAPING
CONSERVATION
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EASTWOODGROUNDS & GARDENS
PROFESSIONAL AND RELIABLE
GARDENMAINTENANCE
LAWN CARE
LANDSCAPING
CONSERVATION
FREE QUOTES & ADVICE
Tel 01388 417522Mobile 07736 396409
OVEN NEED CLEANING? IS IT A JOB YOU HATE?
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Contact Dave Phelps 01388 488764/ 07827 [email protected]
THE NEWSLETTER OF WITTON-LE-WEAR PARISH COUNCILwww.wittonlewear.org.uk
AUTUMN/WINTER EDITION 2019ISSUE 93
INDEXPage 2: Useful & Trade Telephone Numbers, Mobile Library & Mobile Post Offi cePage 3: Village Green Christmas Lights & Support Your Village Page 4: News from the Pews Page 5: Christnas Concert & Carols & Church ServicesPage 6: Parish Council MinutesPage 7: Parish Council Minutes continued Page 8: Parish Council Minutes continuedPage 9: Parish Council Minutes continued & Parish CouncillorsPage 10: Victoria Inn Opening Hours & MacMillan Thank You
Page 11: Victoria Inn Brunch With SantaPage 12: Carpet Bowls & AllotmentsPage 13: Durham Wildlife Photography CompetitionPage 14: Chritsmas Fayre & LightsPage 15: Heritage Group, Monthly Coff ee Mornings & Second Defi brillatorPage 16: Community Association Chairmans Report, Friendship Lunch & Community Centre FuturePage 17: WI News & Elements of NaturePage 18: CrosswordPage 19: Village Events & Community Centre Events Page 20: Crossword Solution
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Happy Christmas and a
Prosperous New Year To all of our Readers
ACROSS: 1 murder. 4 scimitar. 9 silver. 10 infringe. 11 repeal. 12 Calliope. 13 con. 14 select. 17 ear-shot. 21 dahlia. 25 pig. 26 agar-agar. 27 kimono. 28 thespian. 29 audits. 30 diabetes. 31 anneal.
DOWN: 1 mistress. 2 roly-poly. 3 elegance. 5 cancan. 6 merely. 7 tendon. 8 reefer. 12 corsair. 15 tab. 16 nod. 18 taciturn. 19 fl uorine. 20 carousel. 22 wasted. 23 Pamela. 24 magpie. 25 palace.
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DisclaimerThe Editor of this publication does not accept any responsibility for any of the articles, excluding the Editor’s letter, and the Parish Council accepts no responsibility for any of the articles, excluding those generated by the Parish Council or the Parish Councillors. The Editor and the Parish Council will not accept liability or responsibility for third party content in this publication.
Useful Telephone NumbersPolice – Non Emergency - 101
HOSPITALSNHS None Emergency - 111
Bishop Auckland Hospital01388 455000
University Hospital North Durham0191 3332333
Darlington Memorial Hospital01325 380100
DOCTORS SURGERIESNorth House Surgery, Hope Street, Crook
01388 762945 Repeat Prescriptions 01388762718Auckland Medical Group, 51 Toft Hill
01388 834843Auckland Medical Group, St Helen Auckland
01388 604163Auckland Medical Group, Bishop Auckland
01388 602728PHARMACIES
Clemitsons, 25a Hope Street, Crook01388 764939
Boots Chemists, 8 North Terrace, Crook01388 762726
Well Pharmacy. 50 Hope Street. Crook01388 766718
Britton & Robson. 45 High Street Crook01388 746269 SCHOOLS
Witton Le Wear Primary School01388 488350CHURCHES
St Philip and St James Parish Church01388 768898
Methodist Chapel01388 205319
ORGANISATIONSCommunity Centre
Clarice Smith 01388 488200ELECTRICITY EMERGENCYNorthern Powergrid 0800 668877
WATER EMERGENCYNorthumbrian WaterLeaks 0800 393084
Sewerage 0800 3287648GAS EMERGENCY
National Gas EmergencySmell Gas 0800 111999
TRADE DIRECTORY
ELECTRICIANJ G DAVIES
01388 528783 – 07802 898263Email: [email protected]
FUNERAL SERVICESGIBSON’S
01388 603665 – 01388 762582Email: [email protected]
COMPUTER REPAIRSENTWINE SOLUTIONS
01388 488193Email: [email protected]
GARDEN SERVICESEASTWOOD GARDENS
01388 417522 – 07736 396409Email:
OVEN CLEANINGDAVE PHELPS
01388 488764 – 07827 855674Email: dphelps123@b� nternet.com
CLEANING & RESTORATIONDURHAM & DALES
07725 113352Email: [email protected]
DCC MOBILE LIBRARYParks beside the Green
DATES & TIMES OF VISITS
Tuesday 10th December Tuesday 31st DecemberTuesday 21st January
The December 31st and January visits are not finally agreed.
Between 14.55pm and 15.10pm
MOBILE POST OFFICE
Parks Outside the Parish Church
Every Thursday Between
1.45pm - 2.30pm
VILLAGE EVENTS
COMMUNITY CENTRE EVENTS:
Mondays: 7.30pm – 10.00pm CARPET BOWLS – Kate Atkins 488626
Tuesday: 7.00pm – 8.30pm YOGA – Mark Aspinall 710658
Wednesdays: 1.30pm – 3.00pm BADMINTON – Ursula Jones 488568
6.30pm – 8.30pm YOUTH CLUB
Thursdays: 5.00pm – 6.00pm RAINBOWS – Fiona Smith 07856 856714
6.00pm – 7.15pm BROWNIES – Mary Smith 488200
EVENT VENUE FEE DATE TIME INFORMATION CONTACTChristmas
Fair& Lights
Switch On
CommunityCentre
n/a SundayDecember
1st
2.00pmto
5.00pm
Christmas fair with a variety of stalls. Children singing Christmas Carols including switch on of the Christmas lights and Mrs Claus visiting.
MandyStonehouse
07905899831
Christmas Concert
MethodistChapel
£5.00 MondayDecember
2nd
7.30pmChristmas Concert &Christmas CarolsAdmission of £5 includes refreshments
MaryHenderson
01388488551
Coff eeMorning
CommunityCentre
n/a TuesdayDecember
3rd
10.30amto
12noon
Why not come along and join us for coff ee or tea with cakes. We also have juice for children. A great chance to catch up with the village and local news
AnneYuill
01388488376
BrunchWithSanta
VictoriaInn
SeeAdvert
SaturdayDecember
14th
12 noonto
2.00pm
Meet Santa, have a photo of the visit and enjoy Brunch.See advert for more details.Booking Required
VictoriaInn
01388488058
FriendshipLunch
CommunityCentre
TuesdayDecember
17th
12noonChristmas Lunch with one or two surprises for those lonely.Meet new people and make friends.
AnneYuill
01388488376
Coff eeMorning
CommunityCentre
n/a TuesdayJanuary
7th
10.30amto
12noon
Why not come along and join us for coff ee or tea with cakes. We also have juice for children. A great chance to catch up with the village and local news.
AnneYuill
01388488376
HeritageGroup
ParishChurch
n/aThursdayJanuary
9th7.00pm Find out how the Grants are
benefi tting our village.
AnneYuill
01388488376
CommunityCentre
CommunityCentre
n/aThursdayJanuary
23rd7.30pm
What is the future of our Community Centre, and what can we use it for.
ManyStonehouse
07905899831
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NOVEMBER CROSSWORD Answers on back page
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ACROSS1 Backing horse and making a killing (6)
4 I’m trapped by racist waving a sword (8) 9 Pirate lives out by river (6) 10 Violate home by border (8) 11 About to ring to cancel (6) 12 Fresh local pie is a source of inspiration (8) 13 Criminal swindle (3) 14 Opt for mixture of steel containing carbon (6) 17 It’s close enough to catch sound of gunfi re, as
Cockney says? (7) 21 Trouble experienced over plant (6) 25 Animal starts to play in garden (3) 26 Royal commander twice turned to jelly (4-4) 27 Monk craftily conceals one old Japanese
garment (6) 28 Article on Spain confused actor (8) 29 Saudi unusually takes time to make fi nancial
checks (6) 30 Beat side struggling with illness (8) 31 Make tough woman a corporal fi nally (6)
DOWN 1 I’m upset by tension with lover (8) 2 Fatty pudding (4-4) 3 Angel represented in English church shows
refi nement (8) 5 Half of Canada is able to dance (6) 6 Yours truly gets to bank – just (6) 7 Noted problem with new tissue (6) 8 Joint from freezer cooked without zeal initially (6) 12 Pirate from Cairo’s drunk, right? (7) 15 Bill is not entirely suitable (3) 16 Upstanding professor has to show agreement (3) 18 Quiet diplomacy involving one on vessel (8) 19 Element in fuel or explosive (8) 20 Have great fun with student in musical (8) 22 Was profl igate and very drunk (6) 23 Woman harassed male in Pennsylvania (6) 24 Bird of prey’s fi rst to appear in new image (6) 25 Mate has excellent, luxurious house (6)
DO YOU WANT TO SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGEWE ARE LOOKING FOR A PERSON
WHO WILL VOLUNTEER TO GIVE UP SOME TIMETO ASSIST THE EDITOR OF OUR VILLAGE MAGAZINE
THE WITTON WORDThe Witton Word is published six times a year Bi-monthly on the 25th
The role requires the person to prepare the articles, event schedules, and adverts inpreparation for the printer to set out the pages and print the magazine.
The Witton Word is then distributed by the editor to the volunteer delivery persons.Contact the editor below if you are interested
Telephone John Wheeler 01388 488677Email [email protected]
VILLAGE GREEN CHRISTMAS LIGHTSUnfortunately we are not able to have lights on the Village Green this year. This is huge disappointment to the Parish Council but is because of an infrastructure problem beyond the control of the Parish Council or Durham County Council. We were only informed of this yesterday when Cllr B. Henderson and I had a meeting with D.C.C. Street Lighting Engineers. Northern Power Grid (who own the underground electricity cable) are not allowed by law to extract this cable unless it is an emergency. They are also having to delay street lighting projects because all their resources are needed in Yorkshire as a result of the heavy fl ooding The feeder pillar has been purchased and will be installed on the pavement outside, or in the vicinity of, No.22 High Street. Inside the feeder pillar there is a plug and a meter. This makes it accessible . The electric will be picked up through the pavement, hence not disturbing the Village Green. This will be done in the New Year. To take the cable back over the road to light some of the trees is an obscene amount of money the Parish Council could not justify spending. However in the course of a conversation with Angelina Maddison of the Weardale AAP I was told there is a possibility we could be eligible for funding to do this in the next fi nancial year. Mrs Maddison has arranged to meet with the engineers to discuss this matter. This would be at no extra cost to the Parish Council unless we have to match fund a nominal amount. The Parish Council are not happy about this at all, as it seems we have not been kept informed at the diff erent stages of this process. We have put a lot of time into this project, this year, with no end result. With the help of a Small Grants Fund the Youth Club are putting together a project using large plastic bowls and battery operated lights to light the lower end of the Green where the cable couldn’t go, (our fi rst choice when we were told we could only light trees in the vicinity of the cable). These are used in Staindrop every year and do look good. Derek, the youth leader has arranged to make more of these to cover the west end of the Green so we will have light!!!
The Parish Council will fund the extra cost. Cllr Cowan and Cllr Todd will be out and about on 30th November to hang the banners. Any spare time? Just contact either. Sure they’ll be pleased.
Many ThanksOlive Wilson, Chair Witton Le Wear Parish Council.
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NEWS FROM THE PEWS - St Phillip & St James Parish Church
Page 4 Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019
WOMENS INSTITUTE NEWS
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Here we are thinking about December and all around us shops are decorated, day by day more houses have their decorations up, and all the while people keep saying it is only a couple more weeks until Christmas week. Shock horror!
Harvest has been and gone, the church gifts to Woodhouse Close Food Bank and the School Harvest donations to the Salvation Army in Crook. We missed our church target at Harvest Festival but late donations brought us even closer to target. So many thanks to those of you who go on supporting these 2 Food Banks. It is sad therefore to hear murmurings about the Church having put boxes in our pubs and elsewhere for the food banks as if the church was collecting food for themselves! We are not a food bank merely a conduit from our village to the Woodhouse Close Food Bank where the need is continually growing. Please disabuse these murmurings from people who I suspect may never have really thought seriously about the great need out there - not understanding the plight of more and more families for what ever reason.
The organ which had been misbehaving in the lower registers was looked at by a fi rm from Harrogate and put right with a full service hopefully being done before Christmas. The new heating system threw it out of kilter when it was installed but by now it should be used to the church being warmer. The person who came out to see to it also played it and said what a lovely instrument it was, so we need to appreciate it more than we sometimes do!
The church gents cleared up the church steps and paths ready for Remembrance Day although after the recent stormy weather, you can’t really see how tidy it looked. A big thank you to them for their hard work while the ladies cleaned inside and put the church ready for the service on the Sunday. We are also incredibly blessed to have the War Memorial in church and not have to brave the weather outside.
The 100 Club draw was drawn at the Harvest Supper on 19th October and the winners have all been notifi ed.1st 81, 2nd 36, 3rd 60
The 100 Club subs are now due if you have not paid them yet. There are still spare numbers if you would like to join in.
On Friday 20th December we shall be Carol Singing round the village, meeting at Church at 6.30pm. Why not come and join in this run up to Christmas. Refreshments in Church after our eff orts.
The Church will be decorated on Saturday 21st December and all help is appreciated. 10.30 onwards. Foliage is much appreciated.
Christmas Services appear elsewhere in the Witton Word. A card to each house in the village will also be delivered giving information on the Christmas activities and services - we warmly invite you to join in any of them.
Finally the Church Family wish you all a very Blessed and Joyous Christmas. May 2020 be a year of peace on earth and in our hearts.
October - Our members were reminded about the Powertex workshop which is being held on 2nd November where they will be able to make a gnome or an owl and about our monthly collection for the food bank. We will also have a collection for the Womens’ Refuge in December.
They were informed about the 2020 subscriptions which will be collected in January
Our speaker was Denise Graham, who is the technical manager for Tetley’s Tea, a role which covers food, health & building safety. She explained the process of tea production “from bush to cup” which was fascinating. Their factory at Eaglescliff e is the biggest in the world and exports all over the world. They are proud of their high tech and ethical factory , for example nothing goes to landfi ll. She explained that tea cannot be picked by machine so is still picked in the old way, mainly by women who are paid by weight. She was kind enough to leave us some samples.
Next month is our AGM which will include a pie and peas supper.
November - November was our Annual General Meeting so we did not have a speaker this month.
We congratulated our member Mrs Walton for completing the Dementia Walk, raising funds for the charity and coming in 33rd out of 240 entrants.
Mrs Haworth reported on the Autumn Council meeting, the quiz and our Powertex workshop which was so much enjoyed that we are planning another for the New Year.
We have chosen the venue for our Xmas meal and are all looking forward to it.
Mrs Marley, a WI Advisor, then took over the meeting for the reading of the secretary’s, treasurer’s and president’s reports and the election of our president for the forthcoming year. We have had a varied and interesting year and our funds are very healthy. Mrs Haworth was re-elected president.
Our meeting ended with a pie and peas supper, accompanied by a glass or two of wine. Marilyn Gordon, secretary.
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CHURCH SERVICESSt Philip & St James Parish Church & Methodist Chapel
Sunday December 1st Advent Sunday – Holy Communion in Church, followed by Parish Lunch at 12noon. Sundays Cool for Kids during the service.
Sunday December 8th Advent 2 – Cafe Church.
Sunday December 15th Advent 3 – Holy Communion in Church. Sundays Cool for Kids during the service.
Wednesday December 18th – Said Holy Communion at 9.30am.
Sunday December 22nd – Morning Worship in Methodist Chapel. Early Birds All Age Family Service at 9.15am in Church.
Sunday December 22nd Advent 4 – Carol Service of carols and lessons, followed by mulled wine and mince pies.
Tuesday December 24th Christmas Eve – Early Bird Crib Service at 5pm.
Tuesday December 24th Christmas Eve –Midnight Service at 11.30pm.
Wednesday December 25th Christmas Day – Said Service at 10.30am.
Sunday December 29th Christmas 1 – Holy Communion in Church. Readers TBC. Sundays Cool for Kids during the service.
Sunday January 5th Epiphany – Holy Communion in Church. Sundays Cool for Kids during the service.
Sunday January 12th – Cafe Church.
Sunday January 19th – Holy Communion in Church. Sundays Cool for Kids during the service.
Sunday January 26th – Morning Worship in Methodist Chapel. Early Birds All Age Family Service at 9.15am in Church.
All Parish Church/Methodist Chapel Main Services start at 10.30am
unless otherwise stated
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CHRISTMAS FRIENDSHIP LUNCH - TUESDAY 17TH DECEMBER The next Friendship Lunch will be held in the Community Centre at 12 midday on Tuesday 17th December. This will be our fourth lunch this year and there have been 20-30 residents attending each event.
The original idea was to invite people from our area who may be on their own for all or part of the day, anyone who may feel lonely, people new to the village or who may enjoy the company of others for a few hours. We always welcome people who have not been before to our lunches of homemade soups and lovely deserts. If you would like to come along, please contact Anne (01388488376) and you will be made very welcome. Some people do not like coming alone and friends and family members are also welcome. There is a lovely atmosphere and this will be our Christmas lunch with one or two surprises in store.
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION CHAIRMAN’S REPORTAll of sudden it’s winter and Christmas is just around the corner, sometimes I wonder just where the time goes.At the end of September we were thoroughly entertained by the Beacon Band who travelled from South Shields, singing, dancing, food and drink who could ask for more. Many Thanks to all who helped make another successful evening at our Centre.
On the weekend of 12th and 13th October we held an open weekend in the Centre for anyone to come along and see what activities are held there, committee members were available all weekend to discuss the running of the centre, the yoga teacher off ered taster sessions and the bowls group and sewing class also had demonstrations , unfortunately the turnout was poor but those that did come along enjoyed the displays and sampled our 50th birthday cake.
The next event on our calendar is the Christmas fair, this will be on Sunday 1st December from 2.00pm until 5.00pm with the Children from the School singing Carols and the switching on of the Christmas lights, there will be a variety of crafts stalls, including usbourne books, wax melts, pebble art, Hand crafted pottery and much more. Tea, Coff ee and homemade cakes will be available also Santa and Mrs Claus will be there so pop in and say hello.
We need raffl e and tombola prizes, also any bric a brac, items can be taken to the centre on Tuesday 26th November between 5.30pm and 8.30pm or on Sunday 1st December between 11.00am and 1.00pm
On Thursday 23rd January at 7.30pm we are inviting all residents to an open meeting to discuss the future of the Community Centre, a reminder will be sent to all homes.
DO WE WANT A COMMUNITY CENTRE IN OUR VILLAGE ? This is the question the present committee are asking.
Members of the current committee who have served for a number of years wish to retire so we need new people to join so we can preserve our Community Centre for the future.
We are inviting all residents to come along to an open meeting at the Centre on Thursday, 23rd January 2020 at 7.30pm to discuss the future of YOUR Community Centre
A reminder will be sent to every house nearer the time, so look out for it. We do encourage you to come along.
Mandy Stonehouse, Chairman, Community Association
CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND CAROLS
Witton-le-wear Methodist Chapel
Monday 2nd DecemberAt: 7:30pm
Admission £5 (includes refreshments)
Come along and start your Christmas early!
A Merry and
Happy Christmas
and a
Prosperous New Year
to all of our customers
John & Olive
The Dun Cow Inn
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MONTHLY COFFEE MORNINGS
The monthly coff ee mornings continue to be popular and have been raising money for the Community Association. Each month we raise between £60 and £100 for the Centre. Why not come along and join us for cakes, coff ee or tea, juice for children and a chance to catch up on local
chat.
There will be a box for donations of tins, dried foods and other items to be donated for the local
Food Bank at Woodhouse Close.
The next two coff ee mornings will be held:
Tuesday 3rd December Tuesday 7th January
10.30am - 12midday in the Community Centre
If transport is a problem, we can arrange for a car to come and collect you and take you home again.
Please contact Anne Yuill, 01388 488376 or Edith Whalley 01388 488136.
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WITTON - LE - WEAR PARISH COUNCILMinutes of the ordinary meeting of Witton le Wear Parish Council held on Monday 9th September 2019 in the Community Centre, Witton le Wear commencing at 6.15pm
Present: Councillors O. Wilson (Chair), M. Henderson, B.Henderson, K. Quigley, P. Cowan, E. ToddAlso Present: A. Dixon (Parish Council Clerk), A. YuillApologies: E.Swift,Declaration of interest: None
78/19 Minutes of the Ordinary meeting held 8th July2019 - Minutes agreed as being accurate and correct.79/19 Matters arising from the previous minutes -
1. Speeding traffi c - Clerk emailed Brian Buckley of Durham County Council regarding the increase in traffi c through Witton le Wear some of which is heavy goods vehicles caused by the closure of Witton Park Bridge. He received an email from the Traffi c Assets Senior Engineer who explained that traffi c calming measures cannot always be provided due to limited funding and resources which have to be directed to those locations with the greatest requirement. Councillors felt that the reply was unprofessional, made assumptions and was harsh in its tone. Councillors agreed to ask the County Council to reinstate the SLOW road signs that have been worn away on the village roads. It was resolved: Clerk to email the Traffi c Assets Senior engineer asking that the SLOW signs be reinstated.2. Parking on cemetery bank - Nothing further to report currently.3. Gate on public footpath near Little Marshall Green Farm - There have been no complaints about the stile that is currently in place. It was resolved: Councillor Todd to speak to Colin Longstaff about the gate.4. It’s Your Neighbourhood grant - Councillor Cowan has been in contact with Durham County Council who have informed him it is the right time to order the bulbs. The estimated cost for the planting of the bulbs is £1000 which will include the cost of hiring machinery. The Parish Council received a grant from DCC of £500 which needed to be match funded. The Brownies have off ered to help plant bulbs but more volunteers are needed. It was resolved: Councillor Cowan to purchase the bulbs from Durham County Council. An article is to be put in the Witton Word requesting volunteers.5. Operation London Bridge - Councillors agreed to purchase a book of condolence from Amazon to meet the requirements of Operation London Bridge being the event of the death of the Queen or Prince Philip. It was resolved: Clerk to purchase a book of condolence.6. Lights for the Village Green - The quote for the installation of the electricity supply for lights on the village green has gone up to £3,295 plus VAT. The extra cost being for the metered service connection to Northern Grid and the traffi c management required during installation. VAT can be reclaimed.7. Website - Anne Yuill said she might be able to provide some historical photographs of Witton le Wear for the Parish Council website.8. Sponsorship of plant tubs - Councillors agreed to put off getting the signs for the plant tubs until early next year. The defi brillator signs for the telephone box have been installed.9. Problems reported to Durham County Council and Environment Agency - Clerk updated Councillors about 3 problems reported to the Parish Council by residents.
* Narrow bridge on road just off A68 - Still awaiting signage to be installed. Problem originally reported November 2018.* Broken gate to the footpath by the level-crossing - Gate has now been repaired.* Debris on the upstream side of the old bridge - Environment Agency replied to Clerks email stating that the root ball washed up against the bridge abutment is not a cause for concern due to a low risk of blockage and fl ood risk to properties in the area. We have confi dence that this vegetation will be washed downstream during the next high rainfall.
10. Witton Park Bridge - Chairman informed members the plans for work to be carried out on Witton Park Bridge are to go to Cabinet in February next year for consideration.11. Parking on the road outside Low Barns Nature Reserve - Clerk received an email from Jim Cokill from Durham Wildlife Trust regarding traffi c parked on Low Lane outside the Nature Reserve. They have raised the issue with Durham County Council and were informed that DCC do not consider the parking on Low Lane a problem. The Trust cannot stop people parking on the road if they do not want to use their car park. It was resolved: Clerk to contact Durham County Council to raise this problem of cars parked on Low Lane.
WITTON LE WEAR HERITAGE GROUPThe work of the Heritage Group is continuing and our next meeting is on Thursday 9th January 2020 at 7pm in the Parish Church. What is happening with the £3700 grant we received from Northern Heartlands? The answer is lots....
• A group has formed to work on a community banner and many of the village groups have started producing panels for this piece of creative art. We want as many people as possible to input into this project so if you feel you would like to help, please get in touch.• The Young People’s project will consist of workshops at the village primary school focussing on the themes of ‘Sheep &Wool’ and their impacts past and present. The project will look at everything from keeping livestock to the processing of animal products such as fl eeces into wool and felt. The project already has the involvement of professional and amateur experts in farming and fashion, but we are potentially looking for more people to get involved. If you have a professional or personal interest in something connected with ‘Sheep & Wool’ and would like to share your knowledge or skills then please get in contact for a chat. Doug Hill - 488513 or 07422520216• Storyboards with village information will be erected on the village green during 2020. Work is underway to uncover some exciting stories. If you want to share any exciting tales or help recording these stories please get in touch. • Village Voices are planning how they can spend £500 creatively to support the choir.
The Heritage Group is open to any project or information gathering on any topic relating to Witton le Wear and Wear Valley Junction. If you want help researching something, please come along to our meetings and together we can make things happen.
Anne Yuill (email: [email protected] or phone 01388488376)
A SECOND DEFIBRILLATOR IN THE VILLAGE
Witton le Wear Primary School has installed a new defi brillator on the outside of the main reception building. This is for the use of the school and the local community and is fi tted with paediatric as well as adult masks. If you live near the school please make yourself aware of its situation in case of an emergency. All the school children have been trained in CPR and know how to use this lifesaving piece of equipment.
Lynn Docherty who lives in St James Gardens and works at the school has been the person who has led the fundraising of almost £2000. Well done Lynn, the Head Teacher Mark Stephenson, the school children, the teachers and the local residents that have supported this venture.
Watch out for information on local training events where instruction will be given on this vital piece of equipment.
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www.wittonlewear.org.uk Page 7www.wittonlewear.org.uk Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019Page 14 Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019
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Here at Witton Le Wear we meet every Thursday from 5pm – 6pm, at the Community Centre for lots of fun,
games and creative activities.
Unlike larger Rainbows groups we have no waiting list, so if your daughter would like to come along, join in the fun, and meet some new
friends. It is only £3 per week.
Contact:Fiona Smith 07856 856714
80/19 Representation by Residents - Anne Yuill – Witton le Wear Heritage Group Anne informed the Parish Council that the Heritage Group is being awarded a grant of £3,700 from Northern Heartlands Community Initiative Fund which is to be used for several creative projects including:-
1. Village voices £500.2. £1500 for the provision of story boards for the village. These will show historical information about the village. This project will be run by Paul Parsons with the help of residents.3. Creative arts project which may possibly be a collage or map which represents the Parish but this is a blank canvas at themoment.4. £1500 has been allocated to work with young people and more information will be forthcoming as there are some exciting ideas circulating.
All projects to be completed by March 2020.81/19 Financial Statement and Report - Balance of Current Account, Deposit Account and Cash £14,002.29 as at 31st August 2019. A Receipt and Payments Account can be found on the Parish Council website. Councillors agreed payment of invoice 265 – 270 as follows:
265 – Mr A. Dixon (ClerkSalarySeptember) £ 172. 40 266 – HMRC PAYE £ 38.60267 – EliPress £ 133.20268 – SE Landscaping Ltd £ 612.00269 – DerwentVinyls Ltd £ 36.00270 – Amazon – Book of condolence £ 29. 99Total £1022.19
It was resolved: All fi nancial matters agreed as being correct.82/19 Planning Matters - Please fi nd below relevant planning application: -
DM/19/01832/FPA Mr Allan Binks 3 The Paddock, Wi� on-le-Wear Bishop Auckland, DL14 0GA
The Parish Council neither agrees with or objects to this planning application.83/19 Clerks Correspondence -
1. Black path between the rear entrance of the School and the Church - A resident has emailed the Clerk concerned that this path is in dire need of attention due to a build-up of leaves and overhanging vegetation. It was resolved: Clerk to contact the PROW Department of Durham County Council asking whether this path could be strimmed.
84/19 Neighbourhood and Parish Plan - There is an open day at the Community Centre to showcase the events that happen in the Community Centre on the 12th and 13th October. The Community Association are happy for the Parish Council to use this event to get feedback from residents about Parish Plan issues. It was resolved: Councillor Cowan to put an article in the Witton Word about the next Parish Plan meeting.85/19 Members Reports - Councillors have been asked by residents to report on the following matters :-
1. Defi brillator for School - CouncillorCowanaskedthatwecontactLynneDohertytofi ndouthowthefundraising is going to purchase a defi brillator for the School. Lynne is aware that the Parish Council have off ered to make a contribution towards the requiredamount. It was resolved: Chairman to contact Lynne to fi nd out whether any help with funding is required.2. Dog Bin bags - Councillor B Henderson requested that the Parish Council purchase more dog waste bags for the dog waste bag dispenser. It was resolved: Clerk to purchase more dog waste bags from Glasdon Uk.
86/19 Chairman’s Report - 1. Cars parked on either side of the opening opposite the Dun Cow - Residents have complained about cars parked on either side of this opening making access diffi cult. Chairman has reported this problem to Durham County Council requesting that no parking signs be installed.2. Resignation of Trevor Parkinson as Councillor - Chairman informed Councillors that Trevor Parkinson has resigned as a Parish Councillor. He felt that he no longer had enough free time to carry his duties. It was resolved: Councillor Quigley to take over the monthly defi brillator checks.
87/19 Any other business - None88/19 Date and Time of the next Meeting - The next Ordinary meeting of the Parish Council is on Monday 11th November 2019 in the Community Centre, Witton le Wear commencing at 6:15pm.
Christmas Fayre & Light Switch on With Santa’s Grotto
Witton-le-Wear Community CentreSunday, 1st December 2019
2pm until 5pm (light switch on 4-4.30)
Come along and join in the Christmas cheer and the carol singing with the school children.
Santa and Mrs Claus will be visiting, there will Craft stalls including pottery, pebble art, wax melts, Hand spun and felted items also Usbourne books, raffl e, tombola and homemade refreshments.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
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www.wittonlewear.org.uk Page 13www.wittonlewear.org.uk Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019Page 8 Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019
JG DAVIESELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
National InspectionCouncil for Electrical Contracting
APPROVED CONTRACTOR
Glenrosa, 17 East End, Stanhope, Bishop Auckland,
Co. Durham DL13 2UX
Tel & Fax: 01388 528783Email: [email protected]
PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION LAUNCHES WITH ATTENDANCE AT A SPECTACULAR WILDLIFE EVENT
AWAITING THE WINNERSDurham Wildlife Trust has launched a photography competition to celebrate the glories of Weardale with a prize including the chance to feature in a new book and also the opportunity to see one of Britain’s rarest wildlife events – a black grouse lek.
Next year, the Trust will be working with its partners at the Living Uplands Project to produce A Natural History of Weardale, both online and in print. The book is designed to bring the area to life for readers and needs a range of top-class photography to achieve its goal.
Durham Wildlife Trust is asking its supporters, the residents of, and visitors to, Weardale and anyone with an enthusiasm for photography to submit their fi nest work into its Views of Weardale competition.
The Trust is looking for the best photographic captures of wildlife or landscapes from the Weardale area, with two age categories under which to enter: 18 and under and over-18s.
The winning photographer in each category will be off ered the opportunity to experience Weardale’s greatest wildlife spectacle, the biggest black grouse lek in the dale when the male birds gather at dawn in spring to engage in ornate dances to impress the watching females.
Durham Wildlife Trust Director Jim Cokill said: “I’ve had the privilege of visiting this lek and it is an opportunity that any photographer interested in wildlife wouldn’t want to miss. It will be an unforgettable experience.’’
In addition to the main prize, there will also be two ‘Highly Commended’ prizes in each category and age group. Each winner and each photograph rated ‘highly commended’ will receive a printed canvas of their image.
The deadline for submitting an entry is 5pm on Friday 13th March, 2020, and more details are available at www.durhamwt.com/viewsofweardale
Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Witton le Wear Parish Council held on Monday 14th October 2019 in the Community Centre, Witton le Wear commencing at 6.15pm
Present: Councillors O. Wilson (Chair), M. Henderson, B.Henderson, K. Quigley, P. Cowan, E. Todd Also Present: A. Dixon (Parish Council Clerk) Apologies: E.SwiftDeclarationofi nterest: None
78/19 Minutes of the Ordinary meeting held 9th September2019 - Minutes agreed as being accurate and correct.79/19 Matters arising from the previous minutes -
1. Speeding traffi c - Community Speed watch signs have been put back by Councillor Todd. Clerk informed Councillors he had received an email from David Battensby, Traffi c Assets Senior Engineer at Durham County Council stating that he was happy to add the recovery of road markings i.e. SLOW signs to the maintenance programme. Although this will be held over until the next fi nancial year as this work is normally carried out during the Spring / Summer months.2. Parking on cemetery bank - A vehicle that is parked on Cemetery Bank is still causing problems. The Police have been active in Frosterley putting notices on illegally parked cars. If this problem persists contacting the Police may be an option. It was resolved: Councillors agreed that the Clerk should write to the owner of the vehicle asking him to park on the other side of the road.3. Gate on public footpath near Little Marshall Green Farm - The stile has still not yet been removed.4. It’s Your Neighbourhood grant - Councillor Cowan has received a price of £130 per 1000 bulbs from Lanchester Garden Centre through Durham County Council. He has also received further off ers from possible volunteers. It may be possible to plant bulbs at the west end of the village and the area around the railway platform. It is hoped to plant the bulbs at the beginning of November.5. Lights for the Village Green - Chairman has now received an invoice from Durham County Council for the electrical connection on the village green to be able to supply Christmas lights. The fi nal price was £4745.27. It was resolved: Councillors agreed to go ahead with this project.6. Website - Anne Yuill kindly provided the Clerk with historical photographs of Witton le Wear for the website. All that is needed now is up to date photographs. The Clerk asked whether the children who attend the Youth Club could provide photographs. This could be done as a photography competition on a seasonal basis.7. Problems reported to Durham County Council and Environment Agency - Clerk updated Councillors about 3 problems reported to the Parish Council by residents.
* Narrow bridge on road just off A68 - Still awaiting signage to be installed. Problem originally reported November 2018.* Black path between the rear entrance of the School and the Church - Clerk asked the public rights of way department at Durham County Council to inspect this path, but it seems it had been cleared by residents when they got there.* Cars parked on either side of the opening opposite the Dun Cow - Chairman contacted Durham County Council and asked that signage be installed as a matter of urgency as there are a lot of elderly people live in that area. Signs have now been installed.
8. Parking on the road outside Low Barns Nature Reserve - At least 12 tyres have been dumped on council land opposite the entrance to Low Barns Nature Reserve. Durham County Council have asked for photographic evidence of cars parked on the road opposite the Nature Reserve before they are able to do anything. It was resolved: Councillor Todd to speak to the manager of the Nature Reserve to see if they have reported the dumped tyres to Durham County Council and to see if they have any photographic evidence of cars parked on Low Road.9. Defi brillator for School - Councillor B Henderson informed Councillors that the defi brillator has been installed. It seems that no help with funding was required.
80/19 Representation by Residents - None.81/19 Financial Statement and Report - Balance of Current Account, Deposit Account and Cash £13,490.10 as at 30th September 2019. Councillors agreed to transfer the money to pay for the electrical installation from the Deposit Account into the Current Account. The Parish Council can reclaim the VAT of £790.88 from this transaction but will not receive it until April 2020. A Receipt and Payments Account can be found on the Parish Council website. Councillors agreed payment of invoice 271 – 274 as follows:
271 – Glasdon UK Ltd £ 37.87272 – Durham County Council (Electricity Supply) £4745. 27273 – Mr A. Dixon (Clerk Salary September) £ 230. 30274 – HMRC PAYE £ 47.20
Total £5060. 64
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WITTON LE WEAR ALLOTMENTSAs the year draws to a close, we almost need a shout out for available canoes, as I’m sure like a lot of your gardens, the allotments look more like a pond at the moment!
The months where we do prep for next year are on hold, until it dries up, as it’s causing more damage due to the wet! But we’re heading for the festive period, the parsnips and sprouts building nicely to add to the Christmas dinner!!
We potentially have some available plots next year, so if you would like to join the allotment family let us know, contact details are on the entrance to the allotments at the bottom of Cemetery road.
We wish you all a fantastic Christmas and new year with friends and family.
Best Wishes The Witton-le-Wear allotment association
WITTON-LE-WEAR CARPET BOWLS CLUBThe 2019/20 Co. Durham Carpet Bowls Winter League started at the beginning of October. In addition to Wolsingham Wanderers (which is a combined team of Witton-le-Wear and Wolsingham Park) there are another seven clubs competing. The remaining teams are from Tudhoe, Bowburn, Lansdowne, Sedgefi eld, Hamsterley, Bishop Middleham and Hamsteels.
Of the fi ve matches played, so far, the team has managed to win one game against Tudhoe. The fi rst game of the season against Bowburn was a nail-biting aff air with the team being unlucky to lose by two points. The recent match played against Sedgefi eld resulted in a narrow defeat by three points. So near yet so far!
Just a reminder especially to new readers a match consists of two rinks of four players in each team thus there are two games. Two points are awarded for a win in each game (one for a draw) with an extra two points for the team with the best aggregate score. This makes six points in total up for grabs.
Matches played so far are: Date Opponents Venue Result Points Total Oct 9 Bowburn Home Lost 20 - 22 0 0 Oct 15 Hamsterley Away Lost 13 - 25 0 0 Oct 23 Tudhoe Home Won 8 – 17 6 6 Nov 7 Lansdowne Away Lost 7 - 43 0 6 Nov 13 Sedgefi eld Home Lost 19 - 22 2 8
Other matches to be played before the end of 2019 are: Dec 6 Bishop Middleham Away Dec 11 Bowburn Away Dec 18 Hamsterley Home
All the home matches are played on Wednesday nights at Wolsingham Park. Therefore, in eff ect Witton-le-Wear players are at a slight disadvantage since we are always playing away on a strange carpet.
Our club nights continue to be played in the Community Centre on Mondays at 7.00pm. Though club membership is healthy, we do welcome anyone wishing to try out this easy to learn indoor sport.
It was resolved: All fi nancial matters agreed as being correct.82/19 Planning Matters - No relevant planning applications.83/19 Clerks Correspondence -
1. Remembrance Sunday - Clerk reminded Councillors of the need to order the wreath for Remembrance Sunday. It was resolved: Clerk to order a wreath from the Royal British Legion and donate £25.2. VAT Training session - Clerk informed Councillors that he attended a VAT training event at Shotton Hall. Clerk notifi ed Councillors that all invoices must be made out in the name of the Parish Council in order that any VAT can be reclaimed.
84/19 Neighbourhood and Parish Plan - Councillor Cowan has spoken to Durham County Council to ask what support they would give and to see if there is any funding available. Their response was useful in that he was told that there is currently no need for Parish Councils to have Parish Plans anymore and they prefer Neighbourhood Plans which is a detailed, planning focused, community engaged plan. It was resolved: There is a meeting on Wednesday 16th October to further discuss the preparation of a Parish / Neighbourhood Plan.85/19 Members Reports - Councillors have been asked by residents to report on the following matters :-
1. Hanging Baskets - Councillor M Henderson to telephone Thinford Nurseries to ask them to remove and store the hanging baskets.2. Defi brillator - Councillor Quigley felt there are too many books in the telephone box where the defi brillator is stored. He was also concerned that the defi brillator was not working properly and should be checked. It was resolved: Councillors agreed that the books stored in the Telephone Box make it diffi cult to access the defi brillator and should therefore be moved to the Community Centre. Clerk to contact Paul Brolly at the North East Ambulance Service and ask him to confi rm that the defi brillator is working properly.3. Christmas Banners - Clerk reminded members of the need to set a date to hang the Christmas Banners. It was resolved: Councillor Todd off ered the use of his scissor lift to hang the Christmas Banners.
86/19 Chairman’s Report - 1. Building work carried out at the west end of the villageChairman has been made aware of work to clear land at the west end of the village. This has been done without planning permission. A planning enforcement offi cer from Durham County Council attended the area and now no further work can be carried out until planning permission is given.2. New Councillor - Chairman has received two letters from residents who have expressed interest in becoming a Parish Councillor. It was resolved: Chairman to arrange a date with other Councillors to interview these residents
87/19 Any other business - None88/19 Date and Time of the next Meeting - The next Ordinary meeting of the Parish Council is on Monday 13th January 2020 in the Community Centre, Witton le Wear commencing at 6:15pm.
Name Telephone Number
HENDERSON. Brewis Tel: 01388 488551
HENDERSON. Mary Tel: 01388 488551
PARKINSON. Trevor Tel: 01388 488397
WILSON. Olive Tel: 01388 488294
QUIGLEY. Keith Tel: 01388 488914
TODD. Edward Tel: 01388 488688
COWAN. Philip Tel: 07884 452710
SWIFT. Elizabeth Tel: 01388 488671
DIXON. Alan (CLERK) Tel: 01388 609045
PARISH COUNCILLORS
The Parish Council
Wish All Residents
o f Witton Le Wear
An Enjoyable
Christmas
And a Prosperous
New Year
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www.wittonlewear.org.ukPage 10 Page 11www.wittonlewear.org.uk Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019Edition 93 Autumn/Winter 2019
BRUNCH WITH SANTA @ THE VICTORIA
Saturday 14th December 2019 12.00 to 2.00pm
Call and Book your place now
Make new friends as you enjoy your brunch.
Collect your ‘Letter to Santa’ and post it on the day in the Magical Victoria Post Box
Countdown to Christmas and wait for Santa and his helpers to arrive, then you will be invited to his grotto to receive a special gift, (only if you have been good).
Make friends with The Grinch while you wait
Special MenuOrange or apple juice
MainMeatballs and Pasta
OrChicken nuggets, fries and beans
OrBeans and Sausage on toast
All served with toast, Jam and Peanut Butter.
Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Hot chocolate Fudge Cake or Waffl es (all with Ice Cream)
Admission by Booking Only Places Limited
Children Under 12 years of age , £10.50 Includes a Special Photo to remember your day
Adults £7.50 (does not include photo with Santa)
Cheryl Barker - Jan Doherty
The Tower Residents andTHE Victoria Inn
For Raising
£467.00You’re helping Macmillan be right there
for everyone living with Cancer
THE VICTORIA INN
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS
December 24th Christmas Eve – 4.00pm till lateDecember 25th Christmas Day –10.00am till 3.00pm & 5.00pm till late
December 26th Boxing Day – 12.00noon till lateDecember 27th, 28th & 29th – Usual hours
December 30th CLOSED
December 31st New Years Eve – 4.00pm till lateJanuary 1st New Years Day – 12.00noon till late
January 2nd & 3rd – Usual hoursClosed From JANUARY 4th TILL JANUARY 16th 2020