northumberland news autumn 2011

Northumberland News issue 19 Autumn 2011

www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400

Plus County’s best parks | School admissions | What’s on near you

County wins twoCountryfile awards

Summer reading success

Heritage Open Days 2011

at Linden HallWin a luxury stay

In this issue:

4 New athletics facilities

5 Countryfile double win

6 LOVE Northumberland awards

10 NHS News

15 Heritage Open Days 2011

21 Happy birthday Woodhorn

24 New maritime centre opens

25 The new ‘U’

30 What’s on

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Northumberland News

Now available online,by email or in print.

Northumberland News is a quarterly magazine packed with features and news articles written specifically for county residents.

Published in July, September, December and March it is distributed free of charge by Northumberland County Council. Every effort is made to ensure that all information is accurate at the time of publication.

If you would like to receive Northumberland News in large print, Braille, audio, or in another format or language please contact us.

Telephone: 0845 600 6400Fax: 01670 511413Text: phone 01670 542521Text Relay: 18001 0845 600 6400Email: [email protected]

Front cover: Dan Mole, Northumberland County Council modern apprentice, pictured in the award-winning Carlisle Park, Morpeth. Full story page 9.

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The response to the new digital version of Northumberland News has been very good so far, so thank you to everyone who signed up to receive the magazine via email.

Almost 1,800 people chose to receive the first issue of the magazine by email and registrations are increasing each week.

past two years. We are also seeing more and more people choosing to register and pay for council services online, which improves efficiency and keeps costs down.

More about the council's use of social media can be found on page 26 and information about how you can use the website to apply for school places is on page 23.

Wherever and however you're choosing to read this magazine, in this issue we have news of two prestigious Countryfile awards won by the county and updates from our LOVE Northumberland campaign.

There's also information about the annual Heritage Open Days, which run from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 September this year. Hundreds of historic venues will open to visitors free of charge, so it's the ideal opportunity to enjoy the last days of summer and visit a new or favourite location.

Jeff Reid Leader of NorthumberlandCounty Council

If you haven't already signed up for this service and you'd like to, at any point, please visit: www.northumberlandnews/extra

The number of people accessing the county council's website to read the magazine online is also increasing with each edition; July's issue was viewed by 95,000 people, who read on average 15 pages of the magazine.

The internet has become such a part of our day-to-day lives that it's hard to believe that 20 years ago hardly any of us knew what it was.

As a council we have been keen to use the internet as well as social media to communicate with residents and make life easier for those who find their computer or phone the best way to keep up to date and manage bills, bookings and applications.

The winter alerts system, listing school closures and problems on the roads due to snow and ice, has proved invaluable to hundreds of people during the

Leader's welcome

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Twitter at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/twitter

Facebook at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/facebook

Find us on:

YouTube at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/youtube

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Work has begun on an ambitious £1m multi-sport project in the heart of Northumberland.

Athletes and students in Morpeth are set to benefit from a new six-lane synthetic track, renovations to changing rooms and improved access to the King Edward VI High School site.

A Sport England grant of £443,000 will help to pay for the project. Northumberland County Council has contributed £375,000 as well as £40,000 from its Aiming High Fund. Morpeth Harriers, who will use the track and changing rooms as a base for the club, have put forward £11,000 and £175,000 has come from King Edward VI High School.

Funding has also been secured to purchase a new synthetic surface for the school's existing shale, all-weather sports area and improvements to four football pitches.

Councillor Neil Bradbury, executive member for customer services and culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “This project will benefit young people in Morpeth as well as athletes from across the county. The council's successful collaboration with Sport England, Morpeth Harriers and King Edward VI High School will create a much needed facility ahead of the 2012 Olympics, which it's anticipated will spike interest in sports participation.”

Sports build up and running

Mike Bateman, secretary of Morpeth Harriers said: “We have been looking forward to this for a long time. This project will give us, as well as the other athletic clubs in the area, the facilities to be able to develop athletes across the full range of events.”

Simon Taylor, headteacher at King Edward VI High School said: "King Edward's is delighted to see work begin on the new track and sports facilities. Many of our students are already members of Morpeth Harriers and I'm sure these numbers will grow in future. Improvements to our sports facilities have been a high priority for governors for a number of years.”

Sport England's development manager Dave Michinson, said: “Sport England is committed to community sport and using the impetus of the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games we are seeking to create a

lasting legacy for sport across the country. Funded through our Community Investment Fund, Sport England sees the track at King Edward VI High School as the perfect solution to a lack of quality community and school synthetic athletic track facilities in the North of our region.”

Work developing the project started in 2007 and has involved a number of organisations including the former Castle Morpeth Borough Council, Morpeth Town and Morpeth Juniors football clubs, Morpeth Harriers and King Edward VI High School; all supported by Northumberland County Council, Blyth Valley Arts and Leisure and Sport England.

Construction, which started at the site on 4 August 2011, is being carried out by GB Building Solutions and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Pictured: Mike Bateman (front) secretary of Morpeth Harriers with representatives from all groups involved in the project.

Two of Northumberland's top visitor attractions have won recognition in a prestigious national competition.

Alnwick has won the title of Britain's Best Market Town, in the BBC's Countryfile magazine awards. In the same competition, Hadrian's Wall was named Britain's Greatest Walking Trail.

Giles Ingram, chief executive of Northumberland Tourism, said: “Alnwick's vitality draws strength from its history but presents visitors with unexpected twists.

double win in tourism awardsThe usual market town attractions of cobbled streets, traditional coaching inns and the magnificent Alnwick Castle, rub shoulders with the splendidly contemporary Alnwick Garden, quirky Barter Books and interesting independent retailers, providing an enticing and satisfying day out.”

The Countryfile magazine awards were launched in the April issue. Readers were asked to vote on categories such as favourite national park, walking trail, country house and conservation project.

The shortlist for the categories was chosen by Lonely Planet magazine. The winners will be featured in the September edition of Countryfile magazine and on the Countryfile website.

Councillor Roger Styring, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “I'm delighted that two of Northumberland's top attractions have won recognition nationally. I hope it will encourage even more visitors to come and see what the county has to offer.”

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Pictured: Hadrian’s Wall (c) Roger Clegg, HWHL


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Rewarded for LOVEing NorthumberlandThe Co-operative Community Fund in the North East sponsored the event along with the Forestry Commission and Com-vert.

Winners received £250 and runners-up £100 to spend on their project. Shortlisted finalists were given garden centre vouchers.

Those attending the event also heard about a new web-resource that has been developed through LOVE Northumberland to support more volunteering. Part of the Northumberland Life website, it allows groups to promote volunteering opportunities.

Pictured: The Duchess of Northumberland with some of the LOVE Northumberlandaward winners.

Raising the bar for the best coast or countryside project was Berwick Wildlife Group, with a win in the best young people's project category for The Northumberland Coast AONB 'Young Rangers on the Coast'. The best children's project category was won by Darras Hall First School.

The awards were developed by the county council through its LOVE Northumberland campaign.

The Duchess said: "One of the things that I believe makes Northumberland stand out is the huge number of people who are willing to give up their time on a voluntary basis to improve their local area. These awards mark out just some of this work.”

The Duchess of Northumberland helped to celebrate the county’s best community and voluntary environmental work at a special event last month.

Twelve groups were presented with winner or runner-up awards in six categories at the ceremony organised by the county council and held at The Alnwick Garden.

Best new project went to Great Whittington in Bloom for their work on a wildflower area in the village; best ongoing project to Prudhoe Ground Force and best urban project to the Stocksfield Riverwatch Group.

To find out more about LOVE Northumberland go to www.northumberland.gov.uk/love

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The fire service is backing the county council's LOVE Northumberland campaign and is helping to spread the message via its eye-catching wildfire truck.

The campaign, which aims to protect Northumberland's beauty spots as well as keep the whole county clean and green, fits directly into the work of the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service wildfire team.

Alex Bennett, acting chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The wildfire team places protection of the environment at the core of its work within Northumberland. The fire service has always worked closely with the council to care for the county; by featuring the LOVE Northumberland logo on our

wildfire vehicle we hope to take the campaign into rural areas where the preservation of heather moorland and grassland is not only the responsibility of landowners but of those visiting and working in these areas.”

The Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service wildfire team advises other fire services across the country about operational and strategic matters concerning wildfires. The team is also part of an international project involving fire brigades from across Europe who share best practice.

Five officers work in the wildfire team. They are supported by a further 25 firefighters who are specially trained to act in an advisory role in the event of a wildfire.

Education and training is a big part of the team's work and wildfire officers run courses for

groups throughout the year. Building links with land managers, game-keepers and farmers is also important as they can share their expertise with the fire service.

During dry spells, the fire service also coordinates the display of signs in areas popular with walkers and campers to warn people of the dangers and trigger points for outdoor fires.

Councillor Alan Thompson said: “We're pleased LOVE Northumberland has the official support of the fire service. Officers, based across the county, have detailed knowledge about the communities they serve and can often be the first to notice and respond to fire hazards and a wide-range of environmental issues.”

Pictured (from left): Firefighters Andy Davison and Bruce Hardy with Councillor Alan Thompson.

Fired up about LOVE campaign


Putting the heart back into Haltwhistle

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The completion of a project to refurbish Haltwhistle market place has given the rural town a boost this summer.

The refurbishments, which include new walkways, signs, street furniture, planters, interpretation panels and repairs to cobbles are accompanied by leaflets, produced to help visitors enjoy their stay in the town.

The improvements have been completed thanks to funding of £77,500 from Northumberland County Council and £42,500 from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE).

Councillor Tom Brechany, executive member responsible for regeneration at the county council, said: “Our regeneration team has been very pleased to work with the town council and the Haltwhistle Partnership to develop a scheme that will help to regenerate the town centre and bring new vitality to the business community.”

Councillor Alan Sharp, chairman of Haltwhistle Town Council, said: “The whole area looks very attractive and we look forward to seeing the benefits it brings to the town, including a nice new location for events and a pleasant environment for visitors to enjoy.”

Councillor Ian Hutchinson, Northumberland County councillor for the Haltwhistle ward added: “All of these initiatives are helping to make Haltwhistle a more pleasant place to live, work and visit, and I am very pleased to see them coming to fruition.”

The signage and interpretation project includes six new lectern style interpretation panels at key points around the town featuring information about Haltwhistle's rich history. These have been complemented by a set of four town heritage leaflets that visitors can use to delve further into the area's past.

As part of the market place refurbishment, a new bronze 'Centre of Britain' feature has been installed, which can be viewed online via a new town webcam.

The project also funded lights to highlight the twelfth century Holy Cross Church.

All of the improvements in Haltwhistle are part of a three-year programme under the Market Town Welcome programme, which also includes £250,000 investment in improvements to shop fronts.

The town has also become a hub for walking and cycling and has ‘Walkers are Welcome’ status.

Seven new circular routes for cyclists have also been produced and are available from local outlets including Haltwhistle Tourist Information Centre and the Haltwhistle Partnership.

Pictured: Cllr Tom Brechany, executive member for regeneration at the county council; Cllr Alan Sharp, chairman of Haltwhistle Town Council; Cllr Ian Hutchinson, Northumberland County Councillor for Haltwhistle; and Lawrence Thompson, vice-chairman of the Haltwhistle Partnership.

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Four of Northumberland's parks are amongst the best in the country – and that's official!

This summer Carlisle Park in Morpeth, Doctor Pit Park in Bedlington, Hirst Park in Ashington and Hexham's central parks all received the Green Flag Award, a sign to visitors that they are well-maintained and well-managed, with excellent facilities.

Councillor Alan Thompson, executive member responsible for neighbourhood services at Northumberland County Council said: "The people of Northumberland are becoming ever more conscious of their environment and this is emphasised by the work of local

County's parks are some of the best in the country

“Access to quality green space is something we all desire and the scheme plays a key role in providing it. In these challenging financial times it is heartening that the number of Green Flag Awards continues to grow.”

All award-winning sites now have the chance to receive a further award from the Green Flag Plus Partnership, the People's Choice Award. This award is voted for by the public, so if you want to see your local park receive a national accolade visit the Green Flag Award website before Sunday 11 September to register your vote at www.greenflagaward.org.uk

friends groups and volunteers, working alongside our own staff, to achieve this national recognition for our parks and open spaces. I would like to thank everyone who supports their local parks and pay tribute to our own employees for the high standards achieved."

These parks are four of 1,288 across the country that have received the Green Flag Award this year. This record number is evidence of the importance of high-quality green space in local communities.

Phil Barton, Green Flag Plus Partnership chairman, said: “I would like to congratulate this year's winners, who have worked hard throughout the year to keep their parks and green spaces at a high standard and ensure they are pleasant and enjoyable spaces for the whole community.

“The Green Flag Award Scheme, and its growth, is essential in driving up the standards of our parks and green spaces.

Pictured: Hexham’s central parks all received the Green Flag award.


Pictured: Hirst Park success.

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Morpeth GP, Dr Alistair Blair is heading

up a new clinical commissioning group

that will be responsible in the future for

making sure local people receive the

healthcare services to meet their needs.

Over the next two years the Northumberland

Commissioning Group, which includes all 46 GP

practices across the county covering a population

of around 330,000, will be working closely with

NHS North of Tyne, the current commissioners of

healthcare, as they take on their new

responsibilities.

The group was established as part of the

government's plans to reform the NHS and put

doctors and other clinicians in charge of

commissioning NHS services on behalf of the

local population.

Its plans for the next year focus on reducing

unplanned hospital admissions and improving

care closer to home. It is also involved in the

county-wide roll out of an end of life scheme

originally piloted in Tynedale, designed to support

patients who wish to die at home. Another

scheme, which is being piloted first in Morpeth

and Wansbeck, involves screening people who

may be at risk of hip fracture.

These plans, and others for the next year, are

included in the Northumberland locality plan,

jointly developed by NHS North of Tyne and the

Northumberland Commissioning Group.

To ensure a local focus, the group has four

localities – North, West, Blyth Valley and Central.

Dr Blair will be supported by Dr David Shovlin as

West locality lead, Dr Frances Naylor as Blyth

Valley locality lead, Dr Eileen Higgins and Ms

Hilary Snowdon as joint Central locality leads and

Ms Hilary Brown and Dr Graham Syers as North

locality joint leads.

Northumberland GP clinical commissioninggroup looks to the future

Lead GP Dr Blair (pictured above), who has been a partner in Wellway Medical Group in Morpeth for the past nine years, said: “The establishment of clinical commissioning groups provides a great opportunity for GPs and other healthcare professionals to commission health services that meet the needs of their local populations. We are ideally placed to understand the needs of our patients and to make sure that the services that are developed locally meet their wishes.

“We intend to focus on providing healthcare closer to where people live to avoid unnecessary travelling to hospital and to create more support in the community for vulnerable and elderly people and for those with long term conditions to reduce avoidable hospital admissions.

“We hope we can build on the current commissioning strengths and work with colleagues in primary care, hospitals, the local authority, the community and voluntary sector and local people to ensure services that enhance patient care in this challenging economic climate.”

The locality delivery plan is available online from www.northoftyne.nhs.uk

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Local doctors are reminding people who are at risk from flu to get vaccinated and protect themselves.

People aged 65 years and over, and anyone aged six months or over with a long term health problem or a weakened immune system, along with expectant mums, need to get the vaccine as a matter of urgency as flu can cause them serious complications, sometimes resulting in a stay in hospital and in the worst cases death.

From October, those people at risk who are under 65 can also go along to participating

Get your flu jab if you are in an atrisk group or you are pregnant

pharmacists and have the flu vaccine.

Patients who choose to go along to the pharmacy will need to take their GP letter and photo identification along to prove they are eligible for the vaccination.

If you are not sure whether you are eligible for a flu vaccination please check on the NHS choices website www.nhs.uk

To find your nearest participating pharmacy go to: www.northoftyne.nhs.uk or contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on freephone 0800 0320202 or text 0167051109 or email [email protected]

Think Pharmacy First this autumn

People in Northumberland are being encouraged to Think Pharmacy First this autumn.

The scheme is helping to remind local people that community pharmacies in their neighbourhood are a one stop shop for minor ailments and illnesses including the cold, sore throat, verrucas, head lice and many more common problems.

Think Pharmacy First offers patients who qualify for free prescriptions, due to low income, the choice of going straight to their pharmacist for a consultation, advice, and if appropriate treatment. If you are unsure whether you are entitled to be treated through the Think Pharmacy First scheme, call into your local pharmacy for further guidance.

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The county council is calling on people to take the first steps towards adopting a Northumberland child.

The appeal comes ahead of the 2011 National Adoption Week, which this year will run from 31 October to 6 November.

This UK-wide campaign is organised by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering, an organisation that helps to find families for up to 4,000 children across the UK waiting for permanent homes.

Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member for children and young people, said: “We know many people would like to offer a loving home to an older child, but they never take that first step. They think that the process is too gruelling, or because they're over 40 that they would be turned down automatically.”

“We need people to come forward from all walks of life. The process is rigorous, but we are here to help them through it. More than nine out of 10 people who go through the adoption

Consider adopting an older child?enormous number of school age children needing families.

“We started to enquire about school age children and soon after our family placement worker approached us about a five-year-old boy. He had been in foster care on and off since he was a few months old. His social worker told us all about him, and

we said yes straight away. We didn't sleep for two nights, but it felt so right – we just knew in our hearts that he was the one for us.

“As soon as we met him we found he had so much to give. He has a wonderful mischievous nature and so much love. He has been our son for nearly two years now. We don't feel we missed out by not adopting a baby – our wonderful son gives us just as much and more love. We thought we'd miss out on the bonding process by adopting a school-age child, but it

has been the opposite. He settled in at once and brought joy and happiness to our family.

As with every child he has many needs - most of all love, unconditional love and lots of it. He has made us very proud parents.”

assessment are approved to

adopt.”

Currently there are about 20

school age children waiting for a

permanent home.

One Northumberland family

said: “When we were first

accepted to adopt a child we

never even thought about

adopting an older child as our

hearts were set on a baby. Time

passes very slowly when you are

waiting and it was a long wait.

We joined a national adopters'

network, and received a

quarterly magazine with a

supplement called Children Who

Wait. Only then did we see the

If you would like further information about adoption, come along to the next adoption information evening on 30 November in Morpeth or call the adoption team on 01670 534450. You can also visit us online for more information www.northumberland.gov/adoption or email us at [email protected]

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Trading Standards officers will be carrying out electric blanket testing at a number of venues in the north of the county during the week beginning 26 September.

Testing is by appointment only, so numbers are limited. Booking from 12 September is recommended by phoning 01670 534570. Arrangements can be made to collect blankets from anyone who is housebound. Although the testing centres are in the north of the county this year, all pensioners in Northumberland can make an appointment to attend.

This free service has been jointly organised by Northumberland County Council's Trading Standards and Age UK Northumberland, with assistance from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service and Three Rivers Housing (formerly Northumberland STARS – Small Tasks and Repairs Service).

During each event pensioners can also receive useful information about their consumer and legal rights.

The testing days are planned for:

Monday 26 SeptemberThe Swan Centre, Northumberland Road, Tweedmouth, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 2AS.

Tuesday 27 September Morning at the Rothbury Jubilee Hall, Jubilee Institute, Bridge Street, Rothbury, NE65 7SDAfternoon at the Cheviot Centre, 12 Padgepool Place, Wooler, NE71 6BL.

Wednesday 28 September Northumberland Hall, Market Place, Alnwick,NE66 1TN

Thursday 29 September Seahouses Community Resource Centre, 62-64,Main Street, Seahouses, NE68 7TP.

Friday 30 September Amble Development Trust, Fourways 2, 6 Dilston Terrace, Amble, NE65 0DT.

Time for blanket checks

In the event of blankets failing the tests, brand new replacements will be available at reduced cost. Funding for this has been provided by Age UK Northumberland.

Trading Standards currently runs the blanket testing on a three year programme; this year testing will be carried out in the north of the county. Tests in previous years took place in the south east and west of the county.

Jimmy Power, business and consumer protection manager for Northumberland County Council, said: “Last year 55 per cent of the electric blankets failed the tests, so I would appeal to pensioners to get blankets checked and make sure they are safe in time for this winter.”

Councillor Anita Romer, executive member for health and public protection, said: “I'm very pleased we are once again undertaking this worthwhile initiative with our partners. It's easy to get your blanket checked and have peace of mind.”

Pictured: Jimmy Power, business and consumer protection manager, with Joyce Bray who took part in last year’s event.


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Thousands of children across Northumberland have taken part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge.

The circus themed challenge was run by libraries across Northumberland to help encourage more children to use their local library and to keep them reading throughout their long school holiday.

Following free registration each participant received a colourful starter pack to keep track of their reading.

Those taking part were encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the

holiday, collecting rewards along

the way.

Certificates and medals will be

presented to those who

complete the challenge at a

special ceremony in their local

library at the beginning of the

new term.

The challenge is an immensely

popular and successful national

reading initiative and numbers

taking part are increasing year

on year. Last year in

Northumberland 3,615 children

took part.

Throughout the summer

exciting, circus themed events

have also been taking place in

libraries throughout

Northumberland.

As an added incentive all children who complete the challenge will be entered into a fantastic prize draw to win a Nintendo Wii console and game.

A free, half-day workshop will also be awarded to the school with the highest percentage of children completing the challenge.

Councillor Neil Bradbury, executive member for customer services and culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “The response to this year's reading challenge has been fantastic. All of those children who took part and read at least six books during their school holiday are to be congratulated – managing to read a book a week is certainly no mean feat.”

Pictured: Councillor Neil Bradbury at Morpeth library with some of the children who took part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

Young readers rise to the challenge

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Explore county's hidden heritage for free Historic attractions across Northumberland are preparing to open their doors as part of the 2011 Heritage Open Days event.

This year the event will take place from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 September and residents and visitors to Northumberland are invited to see some of the county's architectural treasures at a reduced price or free of charge.

Heritage Open Days is a national initiative, which aims to celebrate the country's heritage, history and culture. Based on past attendance, it is expected that one million people will take part this year.

A full programme of events has been planned around Northumberland and a wide range of buildings of all ages, styles and functions will be throwing open their doors.

Among them are The Clock Tower in Morpeth, Lindisfarne Castle, Blyth Battery - a First and Second World War coastal defence, George Stephenson's birthplace cottage in Wylam, and Elsdon Pele Tower. There will also be a range of family activities laid on at the new Newbiggin Maritime Centre.

The event is not just aimed at heritage enthusiasts; there are also a number of guided walks and special activities taking place for all the family to enjoy. Many other historical attractions that normally charge admission will also opening for free for part of the weekend.

Councillor Neil Bradbury, executive member for customer services and culture at Northumberland County Council said: “Northumberland is steeped in history and some of the fascinating buildings and grounds that are being opened to the public over the weekend date back hundreds of years. The event provides a fantastic and free opportunity for people to find out more about the fascinating heritage that is right here on our doorstep.”

The county-wide event is being coordinated by Northumberland County Council and English

Heritage with the help of a whole host of enthusiastic volunteers and community groups.

Full details of Heritage Open Days in Northumberland can be found on the Northumberland County Council website www.northumberland.gov.uk/open. A leaflet outlining the programme of events is also available from libraries, tourist information centres and leisure centres across the county.

Pictured: Blyth Battery


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‘Outstanding’ children's centre praised

The following is a list of just some of the programmes that Ofsted praised as part of the report:

?Changing local attitudes to breastfeeding;

?Promoting issues around child safety;

?Putting tailor-made packages of support in place for children with special educational needs;

?'Baby bundle' sessions for parents and carers to attend following the birth of their newborn.

Staff at the centre were also given special praise as Ofsted noted their “unfaltering dedication and commitment.”

Paul Moffat, corporate director of children's services at Northumberland County Council, said: “This Ofsted report is a ringing endorsement of this outstanding centre. Bedlington and Choppington Children's Centre is clearly a respected and trusted resource within the local community and it is treasured by the children, parents and carers who use it. Staff, as the report states, are extremely motivated and committed.”

Child care provision at the

centre, which was subject to a

separate Ofsted inspection, was

also found to be 'Outstanding'.

The centre, opened in 2002 and

was developed from a Sure Start

local programme.

The report, published in August was effusive in its praise of the centre, which is managed by Northumberland County Council in conjunction with Action for Children.

As part of the report parents commented on how very different their lives would have turned out if it had not been for the help and support of centre staff. One parent said: “The centre has given me more than anything I could have wished for, my quality of life has improved so much.”

As well as hosting full-time day care for children, the centre provides family support as well as learning and training opportunities for parents and carers thanks to a variety of courses that run throughout the year.

‘Outstanding' in all areas is the assessment of Bedlington and Choppington Children's Centre made by Ofsted following an inspection last month.

Pictured: Councillor Lesley Rickerby (right), with children, staff and volunteers involved in the ‘Wellies for Wildlife’ campaign, just one of the many activities taking place at Bedlington Children’s Centre.

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Firefighters have set up a community youth boxing club at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters in West Hartford, Cramlington, this summer.

The idea for the boxing club originated from operational firefighters and the proposal was led by firefighter Tim Hill who was a professional boxer before joining the fire service.

Tim said: “I have personal experience of the benefits that boxing can provide for young people, not just in terms of fitness and the social aspects, but because it builds confidence and self esteem and teaches self discipline and respect.”

He added: “I thought it would be great if we could provide young people in the West Hartford and Cramlington areas with an opportunity to join a boxing club run by the fire service. I was delighted when the management team agreed to pilot the scheme.”

The club, which held its first session on 8 July, runs from West Hartford Community Fire Station on Friday evenings starting at 6.30pm. Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service has put five officers through Amateur Boxing Association courses so that all of the input given to the club members is of high quality. The coordination of the club is being managed by the service's Community Safety Academy.

Young boxers join Northumberland Firefighters' club

Assistant chief fire officer Paul

Hedley, who is chairing the

steering group for the boxing

club, said: “This is a great

project, which we are really

pleased to be able to support.

We have a long history of

providing high quality and award

winning youth initiatives and I'm

certain that the community

boxing club will add to those

previous successes. We were

delighted that more than 20

young people attended the first

boxing session.

“Although the boxing club is in

its early stages, we have a very

committed and enthusiastic

team running it and we have

ambitions to develop the boxing

club into a project that runs on

more than one night a week. The

club also provides a platform for

the club attendees to learn

about the fire service and our

work and role in the community

in a broader sense.

“We've had a lot of messages of support and encouragement from a wide range of partner agencies and both county and local councillors.”

Councillor Anita Romer, Northumberland County Council's executive member for public protection, incorporating Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “This well-run club is an excellent idea. It allows young people to use the fantastic new facilities at West Hartford proving that this community fire station and headquarters really does live up to its name.”

For more information on the West Hartford Community Boxing Club contact Cash Davison, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service Community Safety Academy, on01670 591156.

Pictured: Coaches Tim Hill (left) and Duncan Peace (right) with members of the West Hartford Community Boxing Club.


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Councillors have now approved a programme of investment worth almost £42m over the next five years, which will help improve the county's infrastructure and deliver better services to residents.

The proposals for investment between 2011-2015, include:

?Improved flood defences for Morpeth.

?The transformation of leisure and community facilities in Ashington.

?A South-East Northumberland link road that will enable traffic to bypass Morpeth.

?Funding for affordable housing.

?£6.2m to improve school maintenance.

Councillor Jeff Reid, the leader of Northumberland County Council said it was vital that the authority provided funding for the local area, despite the current financial landscape.

“Despite the tough economic times we have a responsibility to

Council outlines future investmentThe report recommends an investment of up to £20 million for a new or fully refurbished multi-purpose centre in Ashington, which is likely to incorporate leisure facilities, a customer service centre, registration service and a library.

The council currently has a range of facilities in Ashington but many are in need of investment to meet local people's needs and deliver the council's vision of high quality, modern and accessible public services.

Key stakeholders are now being asked for their views on what criteria the council should use when deciding on a short list of two to three sites to explore further during the public consultation exercise later in the year.

provide the best possible services to local people and this capital investment can have a real impact on the lives of our residents.

“We need to use the money we have in the best possible way and this investment of more than £42m covers some of our key objectives including affordable housing, transport, local schools, the environment and leisure. I know these are issues that are very important to people in Northumberland and I'm particularly pleased to bring forward some exciting plans for Ashington.

“Despite facing significant budgetary challenges we have to invest in these vital local schemes because of a lack of funding from central government. If we don't commit to funding things like the proposals in Morpeth they simply won't happen. Even if we do approve these measures they are still not guaranteed to happen, because we are waiting for decisions from the Environment Agency and the Department for Transport on their contribution.”

For more information on Ashington Leisure Centre, or if you have any views you would like to put forward, please email: [email protected]

Bin days are changingFor further information visitwww.northumberland.gov.uk/wasteTel: 0845 600 6400

19

Purpose-built apartments with great views over Alnwick have been made available for rent through the county council.

The 42 new homes at Ropery Court in the town centre, were built by the Sunderland-based business Gentoo. Owned by the county council they will be managed and maintained on its behalf by Homes for Northumberland.

Every apartment is finished to a high standard, including modern fitted kitchens, stylish fixtures and fittings and individual storage space that is plumbed for appliances. The living room areas feature full-length French doors and they are all wired for satellite TV.

There is parking and the

development is gated for extra

security, with communal areas

landscaped to complement the

iron work and external timber

feature doors.

The county council expects

demand for the apartments,

which are suitable for

households of two adults or one

parent and one child aged 13 or

over, to be high. All will be

leased in-line with the council's

common allocation policy.

Applications must be made via Northumberland

Homefinder. For an application form, or for information

about the homes available, please phone 01670 542424.

Applications through Homefinder should be returned to

Ropery Court Allocations Team, Homes for

Northumberland, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 2HT.


21

Woodhorn, the museum and archive centre just outside Ashington, is preparing to celebrate its fifth birthday.

During the October half-term holiday a programme of special events, including a history fair and family activities, has been planned to mark the anniversary.

Since Woodhorn's £16m redevelopment and re-launch in 2006, close to half a million visitors have passed through the doors of the attraction to see dozens of temporary exhibitions from local arts and crafts to computer games, and from famous cars to mining art.

Some visitors have travelled many miles especially to see the permanent collection of work by the Ashington Group more popularly known now as the Pitmen Painters following the huge success of the Lee Hall play.

The same art collection has secured television coverage in the UK with Robson Green, Melvyn Bragg and others and Woodhorn has even made US TV.

Tens of thousands of people have enjoyed using the excellent research facilities and the millions of records in the archives to trace family histories, explore land developments, and even investigate property. The archives have also had

Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity set up to create a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games across the UK.

One major change to take place was the setting up of Woodhorn as an independent charitable trust. Subsequently the museums at Berwick, Hexham and Morpeth became part of the trust too.

“It's been a busy five years, but extremely rewarding for everyone involved,” explained director Keith Merrin. “I am very proud of what we have achieved and of course, we are all looking forward to the next five years and beyond.”

Full details of the birthday celebrations and all of Woodhorn's events and services are available at www.experiencewoodhorn.com

television coverage from Restoration Home and Heir Hunters to Who Do You Think You Are with Kate Humble.

Dozens of schools from across the region have added Woodhorn to their list of places to go with thousands of youngsters participating in organised workshops looking at mining history, art, film and even the Tudors.

Woodhorn has been fortunate to secure external funding from a variety of sources to deliver extra project work too. In the archives, staff and volunteers have been able to investigate, catalogue and make accessible special collections of documents for the first time. They have also done lots of work in communities around Northumberland with people of all ages. One project currently underway, working purely with young people, is part of NE-Generation and funded by

Birthday events planned


22

New mothers in Northumberland can access the highest quality breastfeeding advice and support according to UNICEF and the World Health Organisation.

Health visitors, community mid-wives, doctors in all 52 GP practices in the county, nursery nurses and Sure Start staff across Northumberland have collectively been awarded the prestigious UNICEF Baby Friendly accreditation.

Northumberland is one of only four counties in England to achieve the full 'Baby Friendly' level three status. This has been awarded following an assessment by a UNICEF team carried out over four years.

As well as assessing the services provided, UNICEF also spoke to women about their experiences. Their comments were overwhelmingly positive with mothers feeling well supported thanks to extra visits, highly trained staff and contact with other mothers and volunteers.

The award will be presented to representatives from the community services business unit of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Northumberland County Council, which manages children's centres in the county, during a conference at Kirkley Hall on 16 September.

UNICEF award for county

the mothers commented that they had tremendous support from health professionals and breastfeeding peer support volunteers as well as children's centre employees, which has helped them sustain their breastfeeding programme.”

Paul Moffat, corporate director of children's services, said: “Our children's centres have worked hard with Northumbria Healthcare to achieve this accreditation. I believe that Northumberland is the first county nationally covering such a large geographical area to have been given the award.”

The baby friendly initiative, set up in 1992 by UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, is a global programme that provides a practical and effective way for health services to improve the care provided for all mothers and babies.

Speakers at the breastfeeding conference will include world renowned doctors. The event will also recognise the work of healthcare professionals and volunteers in Northumberland who have all helped to achieve the Baby Friendly accreditation.

Daljit Lally, corporate director for adult services, said: “We decided to join forces with UNICEF UK's baby friendly initiative to increase breastfeeding rates and to improve care for all mothers who attend our clinics and centres. By breastfeeding, mothers are protecting their babies against a wide-range of serious illnesses, including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy as well as some allergies and diabetes in childhood. The feed back from post-natal and ante-natal mums was extremely positive. Time and time again

23

If you have children moving up to middle or high school next year why not try using the internet to make your choice of school?

More and more people are now choosing the web when applying for school places. In 2010, 65 per cent of applications were made online through the county council's website, up from 58 per cent in 2009.

Going online makes the process simpler for parents and enables council staff to allocate places more efficiently.

Parents will also find out about their final school places much faster because online applicants get their results via email rather than through the post.

Usually more than 10,000 people apply for places at

Do it online: School admissionsNorthumberland's schools, with the online system making it far easier for admissions staff to organise the final places and spot gaps where parents have forgotten to apply.

Applications for middle, high or secondary schools can be made between 6 September and 31 October 2011 by visiting www.northumberland.gov.uk/245Applications for first or primary schools can be made between 1 November 2011 until 13 January 2012.

Our website at www.northumberland.gov.uk now contains details of more than 700 services provided by the council.

However, if you can't access the internet don't worry, we can provide all the same services over the phone by calling0845 600 6400.

Hundreds of courses are now on offer to adults looking to learn in Northumberland.

The 2011/2012 adult learning brochure is now available and registration for this year's packed programme of courses has begun.

Last year more than 15,000 people studied locally in one of the county's education centres.

Whether you want to study for your own interests or job prospects there are courses

running during the day and evening at a variety of locations in your area of the county.

With a whole range of disciplines and levels to suit all abilities there should be a course to suit you. Registration can be completed by post, telephone or in person at the centre where you want to study.

For more information visit: www.northumberland.gov.uk/adultlearning Email: [email protected] Phone: 01670 534530.

New adult learning courses – enrol now!

Find us on Facebook

Want up to the minute news about council services in Northumberland or to have your say about the latest burning issues?

Maybe you just want to become part of a thriving online community dedicated to Northumberland?

You can now find us on all the major social networking sites where you can access up-to-the-minute information on roadworks, jobs, local events and consultations.


24

After seven years of planning and hard work the £3m Newbiggin Maritime Centre welcomed visitors aboard earlier this summer.

Thanks to an incredible fundraising effort by the Newbiggin Heritage Partnership and dedication from a team of 60 volunteers, visitors are able to experience the story of the village's rich fishing and mining heritage, hearing tales of community life by the sea.

The centrepiece attraction is the Mary Joicey lifeboat, who has left her landlocked retirement home in Reading to return to the coastal village of her heyday. Joining her is the restored fishing coble, the Girl Anne – one of the traditional fishing boats, which were adapted to suit the needs of east coast fishing ports.

Original film footage of fishing and sea rescue brings the centre to life, with audio telling tales from Newbiggin's well-known fishermen and lifeboat-volunteers.

New centre is in shipshapeTo build the centre the

partnership secured core

funding from the Commission for

Architecture and the Built

Environment (CABE), through its

Sea Change regeneration

initiative for coastal

communities, the Heritage

Lottery Fund, Northumberland

County Council and Go

Wansbeck.

Councillor Tom Brechany,

executive member responsible

for regeneration at

Northumberland County Council

said: “It’s great to see this

fantastic new maritime centre

project completed. The council

has been pleased to provide

support in securing a funding

package to allow the

development to go ahead.”

The centre's café, The Point, has

panoramic views looking across

the bay for visitors to enjoy while

having a coffee, homemade

cakes, bistro meals and snacks.

It also opens as a restaurant on

Friday and Saturday evenings.

The centre celebrated the

opening on Saturday 30 July

and the first visitors gave the

new attraction a glowing review.

Partnership chairman Richard

Martin said: “We are delighted to

open the Newbiggin Maritime

Centre. We are extremely proud

of what has been accomplished

by our dedicated volunteers.

Local people are the backbone

of the project – from having the

vision for a centre, to fundraising

and giving their time to make it a

reality. It's great to see visitors

enjoying the exhibitions and

learning more about the history

of our village.”

Admission to the gallery is £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for children. Family passes are available for £7. Entry to the gift shop and The Point is free. For more information, visit www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk.

25

passing them on. But most importantly, it's local people teaching local people.”

Olav Veldhuizen, The U Northumberland's project manager, said: “As a host you will work with a diverse group of individuals in the unifying spirit of strengthening your own community. You will help to shape a community where people step in, share their knowledge and work together to bring about real change. This is a chance to help shape an exciting new project in Northumberland, meet new people, build your CV and have fun.”

Robin Casson, director of learning and skills at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are pleased to be supporting The U Northumberland and this exciting national pilot project. The recruitment phase is well underway and we are looking forward to seeing the first sessions begin later this year.”

Those who join The U as a host will be expected to deliver at least two learning sessions in their local community throughout October 2011.

The U Northumberland wants you!A new citizens' university will open in Northumberland this autumn and it promises to bring learning and training into the heart of local communities.

The U Northumberland, developed by the Young Foundation, will offer interactive, 90 minute learning sessions with the aim of making communities safer, healthier and happier.

Northumberland has been chosen by the Young Foundation as the second of three pilot sites in the country to launch this new national venture. With a base in Hexham, this test programme will serve the rural west of the county.

The U Northumberland is currently recruiting volunteer 'hosts' to run these practical learning sessions. The hosts will receive intensive training to guide 'guests' through a series of fun activities designed to teach seven key skills.

In September, The U will begin training volunteer hosts in first aid. The hosts will be given

intensive facilitation training as well as first aid training from British Red Cross, one of The U's national partners. In September and October the hosts will be sharing their skills with members of the community in The U's 'Be a lifesaver' sessions.

Upcoming sessions throughout the year will include 'Save Energy, Save Money'; 'Keep the Peace' (defusing conflict and safety skills); and 'Look After Yourself' (maintaining family and personal health).

The U is open to anyone over the age of 18. Sutton, in Surrey, was the first pilot scheme to launch earlier this year.

Margaret Mattingly, 67, is one of 20 'U Pioneers' – the first hosts to test out The U – in her community of Sutton.

Margaret said: “I was intrigued with the information I had heard about The U. It's about cascading information and helping local people to feel confident about doing something in their communities. It's learning new skills and

For more details about becoming a host or attending a session in Northumberland, visit: www.the-u.org.uk/northumberland

Call: Olav Veldhuizen on 07535976931.

Email: [email protected]

Write to: The U Northumberland, c/o Prospect House,Hexham, NE46 3NH.


Northumberland goes socialIn a county where people are

spread out over large distances

social networking is proving to

be a key tool that allows the

council to start two-way

conversations and engage with

residents in ways that were not

previously possible.

By looking at these channels

you can now find out the latest

events and council news, hear

about school closures or local

issues as soon as they happen

or just get involved in the big

conversations in your area.

Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of

Northumberland County Council,

said: “I think this will be a really

useful tool for local people and

tourists who will be able to find

all the best events at the touch

of a button.

“We've already seen some

success in this area with our

winter alerts system, which has

proved a real hit with the public

and enabled us to get vital

service information to people as

soon as possible, in the way

they find most convenient.

“This is a really important issue

for people across

Northumberland, particularly in

the rural areas, which is why

we're currently preparing a bid to

try and attract more funding for

super fast broadband.”

Northumberland has some of the most beautiful coast and countryside in Britain and with so much happening over the next few months, nobody needs to miss out on all the best things to do.

Users can simply visit the page

and sign up to be alerted about

everything from kids favourites

like the summer reading

challenge at local libraries, to big

events at the best attractions

such as the National Trust.

The new page has been set up

following the success of the

council's other social networking

pages, which have gone from

strength to strength over the

past year. Northumberland now

has a presence on all the major

sites including Facebook, Twitter

and YouTube helping residents

keep in touch in the most

convenient way possible.

Keeping up to speed has just got much easier thanks to a new facebook page that will keep residents, visitors and tourists right up-to-date with all the latest events from the comfort of their computer screen or smart phone.

Northumberland County Council is piloting a new page on the popular social networking site so that everyone can get involved in the exciting events taking place up and down the county.

You can check out the new 'what's on in Northumberland' site by visiting: www.facebook.com/northumberlandevents

26

27

Enter this month's competition to win a stay at Macdonald Linden Hall Golf and Country Club.

The winner and a guest will enjoy two nights sharing a twin/double room with full English breakfast and dinner in the restaurant.

The prize is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Win a two-night stay at Linden Hall For your chance to win, contact us by post or email and answer this question:

What is the name of Linden Hall's Pub?

Send your answer, marked Linden Hall competition to [email protected] or Communications, Northumberland County Council, County Hall, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 2EF.

Entries must arrive by Monday 26 September and the winners will be chosen at random from all the correct answers. Please provide a telephone number.

Situated in the heart of Northumberland, in 450 acres of park and woodland, Linden Hall is the ideal venue for relaxation, business or pleasure.

With 50 bedrooms and a choice of dining, in either the 2 AA Rosette Dobson Restaurant or the relaxed Linden Tree Pub, the hotel has something for everyone. In addition to that, there is an 18-hole championship length golf course and driving range and the relaxing Vital leisure club and spa treatment rooms.

The hotel is the perfect wedding venue and there are some winter and summer wedding packages available plus a new Whirlwind Wedding package too – call Angela the wedding co-ordinator on 01670 500 017 for more information.

Linden Hall has a range of superb accommodation offers all available at www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/lindenhall/offers and you can also book now for any Christmas events too – party nights throughout December, Christmas day lunch or the New Year's Eve Gala Ball.

Call 01670 500 000 for more information or email [email protected] – for any Christmas bookings made before 30 September 2011, a 10% per client discount applies too.

Follow Linden Hall on Facebook and Twitter – www.facebook.com/macdonaldlindenhall and www.twitter.com/MacLindenHall

Macdonald Linden HallGolf and Country Club


28

CouncilmeetingsThursday, 1 September, 2011

Tuesday, 6 September, 2011

Wednesday, 7 September, 2011

Friday, 9 September, 2011

Monday, 12 September, 2011



lArea Planning Committee - North6:00 p.m.Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA

lExecutive10.30 a.m. Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lPlanning and Environment Committee6:00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lCounty Council3:00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lRights of Way CommitteeTime T.B.C.The Pheasant Inn, Falstone

lArea Committee - North6:00 p.m.Venue to be confirmed

lExecutive2:00 p.m.Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Committee - West6:00 p.m.Merton Hall, Merton Way, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9PX

lCommunities and Place overview and scrutiny committee (OSC)2:00 p.m.Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Committee - South East6:00 p.m.Isabella Centre, Blyth



Thursday, 22 September, 2011

Monday, 26 September, 2011

Thursday, 29 September, 2011

Monday, 3 October, 2011

Tuesday, 4 October, 2011

Wednesday, 5 October, 2011

Thursday, 6 October, 2011

lArea Planning Committee - South East6:00 p.m.Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare Centre, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington

lArea Planning Committee - West6:00 p.m.Prospect House, Hexham

lCare and well-being (OSC)2:00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lEconomic Prosperity and Strategic Services (OSC)10:00 a.m.Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lFamily and Children’s Services (OSC)2:00 p.m.Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth


lPlanning and Environment Committee6.00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lCounty Council3.00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth


29

Review of Northumberland's area committees

The council is currently undertaking a review of its three area committees. We are aiming to increase their public engagement and make them as effective as we can.

As part of this process we would like to hear the views of residents and other interested people on the current committees, and whether and how they should change. For further information, please contact committee services on 0845 6006400 or email [email protected]

A full list of meetings is available at www.northumberland.gov.uk. can change. Before attending please check the website or contact committee services on 0845 600 6400 to confirm details.

Meeting dates and venues

Monday, 7 November, 2011

Wednesday, 9 November, 2011

Monday, 14 November, 2011

Tuesday, 15 November, 2011



lCommunities and Place (OSC)2:00 p.m.Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Committee - North6:00 p.m.Venue to be confirmed

lArea Committee - West6:00 p.m.Venue to be confirmed

lArea Planning Committee - South East6:00 p.m.Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare Centre, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington

lArea Committee - South East6:00 p.m.Venue to be confirmed


Monday, 17 October, 2011

Tuesday, 18 October, 2011

Wednesday, 19 October, 2011

Tuesday, 1 November, 2011


Thursday, 3 November, 2011

lEconomic Prosperity & Strategic Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee

lArea Planning Committee - South East6:00 p.m.Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Renwick Road, Blyth NE24 2BX


lPlanning and Environment Committee6:00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lCounty Council3:00 p.m.Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth



Whats on?

30

SeptemberSaturday 3 SeptemberKielder Water & Forest Parkwww.sip-events.co.uk/kielder-home.html

Saturday 3 SeptemberHarbottleT: 01669 650215

Thursday 8 - Sunday 11 Septemberwww.heritageopendays.org.ukNorthumberland Heritage Open Days offer free access to properties that are usually closed or charge for admission. Discover some of Northumberland's hidden gems with exclusive guided tours, talks and events.

Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 SeptemberBerwick-upon-TweedT: 01668 213496 www.berwickfoodfestival.comA feast of culture, heritage and food celebrating the best of local food and the rich history of food production in North Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. Organised by Slow Food Berwick, the festival celebrates eating locally and seasonally, supporting small producers and enjoying food with friends and family. Highlights include a beer festival, animal farm and lively entertainment.

Saturday 10 SeptemberKielder Water & Forest ParkT: 01830 540453 www.kielderwalking.co.uk

Sunday 11 September Belsay HallT: 0870 3331183 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events

Saturday 17 SeptemberThroptonT: 01669 621577

Saturday 17 SeptemberMorpethT: 01670 535203 www.northumberland.gov.uk/williamturnergarden

Montane Kielder 100 - Mountain Bike Race

Harbottle Show

Heritage Open Days

Berwick Food Festival

Kielder Challenge

Vintage Car Show

Thropton Show

William Turner Conference (Walks and Talks)

Greater Morpeth Walking Festival

Hexham Abbey Festival

Alnwick Food Festival

Hexham Eating Festival

Bellingham Blast Cycling Event

The Bandstand Marathon

Alwinton Show

Sunday 18 - Sunday 25 September MorpethT: 01670 503866 E: [email protected]

Friday 23 September - Saturday 1 October HexhamT: 08081 261257www.hexhamabbey.org.uk/festivalThe Abbey and rural market town of Hexham provide the

perfect setting for this popular local festival with an

international flavour. Enjoy ten days of music including choral,

orchestral, chamber, jazz and folk.

Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 SeptemberAlnwickT: 07971 162623 www.alnwickfoodfestival.co.uk Around 20,000 people visited the Alnwick Food Festival in

2010 and this year world renowned Michelin star chef Jean-

Christophe Novelli will be making a guest appearance. Trade

stalls, cookery demonstrations, entertainers and more will be

on show throughout the weekend. The event runs alongside

the Alnwick Beer Festival in the Alnwick Town Hall where there

is the chance to taste the offerings of local breweries

throughout the north east, featuring real ales, various ciders,

wine and soft drinks.

Saturday 24 SeptemberHexhamT: 01434 603022 www.visithexham.net

Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 September BellinghamT: 01434 220616

Sunday 25 September

Blyth

T: 01670 542267 www.bval.co.uk

OctoberSaturday 8 OctoberAlwintonT: 01669 650436 www.alwintonshow.co.uk

31

Whats on?

November

Friday 4 - Sunday 6 NovemberHexhamT: 01434 230127

Saturday 5 NovemberHexhamT: 01434 652220

Saturday 5 - Sun 6 NovemberBelsay HallT: 0870 3331183 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events

Friday 11 - Saturday 12 NovemberAlnwickT: 01665 576483 www.alnwickpipers.co.ukA fantastic traditional music event for the whole family. This year featuring live Northumbrian Piper sessions and young musicians as well as a concert in the Alnwick Playhouse on Saturday 12 November.

Friday 25 November Hexhamwww.hexhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Friday 25 - Saturday 26 NovemberBelsay HallT: 0870 3331183 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events

Saturday 26 - Sunday 27 NovemberBelsay HallT: 0870 3331183 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events

Dates throughout November Cragside, Rothburywww.northumberlandlights.com

Dates throughout November and December Kielder Water & Forest Parkwww.nwl.co.uk/winterwonderland

Tyne Tour Canoe Rally

Round Table Bonfire and Fireworks

Christmas Festival Gift Fair

Alnwick Northumbrian Gathering

Hexham Christmas Lights Switch On

Ghost Stories for Christmas

Victorian Christmas with Father Christmas

Northumberland Lights

Winter Wonderland

Haltwhistle Autumn Walking Festival

4th Kayak and Canoe Slalom National Division

Kielder Marathon

Halloween Activities

Ashington Walking Festival

Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival

Halloween Hauntings at Kielder Castle

Hexham Spook Night

Tales of Fear

Saturday 8 - Sunday 16 OctoberHaltwhistleT: 01434 322025 www.haltwhistlewalkingfestival.org

Ranked Event Sunday 9 OctoberMorpethT: 07540 412087 www.morpethpaddlesportclub.co.uk

Sunday 9 OctoberKielder Water and Forest Parkwww.kieldermarathon.comThis 40km route takes you past award winning art installations, through forests and across some amazing scenery.

Saturday 15 - Thursday 20 OctoberFord and Etal EstatesT: 01890 820338 www.ford-and-etal.co.uk

Monday 17 - Sunday 23 OctoberAshingtonT: 01670 854411 E: [email protected]

Sunday 23 - Tuesday 25 OctoberBerwick-upon-TweedT: 01289 330999 www.berwickfilm-artsfest.comBerwick Film & Media Arts Festival turns the town itself into a platform for screening, projecting and staging the moving image. The programme features a whole host of exciting events and activities, celebrating moving image art from home and abroad.

Friday 28 OctoberKielder Water & Forest ParkT: 01434 250209 www.visitkielder.com

Saturday 29 OctoberHexhamT: 01434 603022 www.visithexham.net

Saturday 29 - Monday 31 OctoberBelsay HallT: 0870 3331183 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events


“Have you heard a lot in the

news about an orphan or a child

with no loving parents?

Have you always thought that

you couldn’t help and then just

forgotten about it? Well you can

help. I was one of those children.

Now I’ve been found a home and

some loving parents. So help

today – adopt a child so they

can have great experiences.”

Fr

om Rosie,

N

orthumberland

The Northumberland Adoption team are here to guide & support you every step of the way. Please contact us for more information:

01670 534450familyplacement@northumberland.gov.ukwww.northumberland.gov.uk/familyplacementWe are also seeking new foster carers for short and long term stays - visit the website for more details.

4 People come from all walks of life, including single people, unmarried couples

& same sex couples

4 Families are needed for children aged 2 to 8 years old, particularly boys, children with disabilities & sibling groups

4 As well as couples & singles without children, we also seek families with

older children looking to adopt children younger than their own

northumberland news autumn 2011

Documents

northumberland news

love northumberland

news articles

county residents

quarterly magazine

successheritage open

county councils website

council services