Northumberland News - Spring 2012

Northumberland News issue 21 Spring 2012

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

Invasion at Woodhorn

Residents’ Festival 2012

Fire service new recruits

Best Market in Britain

Plus New Kielder bike route | Recycling rewards | What’s on near you

In this issue:

6 Olympic Sport - Give It A Go!

8 Wildfire workshop

16 Volunteers LOVE Northumberland

27 Parking - changes pending

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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: On-call firefighters Glen McWilliams and son Jack outside their business in Wooler. Full story page 9.

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Northumberland News, Gold Award Winner in the External Newspaper or Magazine category at the CIPR PRide Awards North East. The magazine was judged best in the region during an awards ceremony in November 2011.

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As this edition of Northumberland News goes to print, the county council is finalising its budget and spending plans for the next financial year.

Like all other council's across the country, we are facing budget cuts and Northumberland must make savings of £30m over the next three financial years.

county council's apprenticeship programme. Details of the work of apprentices, past and present, are covered in an article about National Apprenticeship Week on page 15.

In spite of difficult financial times there are plenty of events to look forward to, which will be free to enjoy. Later this month, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March, the county council will run its third annual Residents' Festival. Under the new banner of Our people, our places, the festival, is set to be bigger and better than ever, more details are listed on page five.

The Olympics is fast approaching. On page six there is information about how to get involved in the build-up to the games. There are also events planned to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee this summer and details will be following in the next issue.

Jeff Reid Leader of NorthumberlandCounty Council

We have already made enormous efficiency savings totalling more than £100m since the unitary authority was formed in 2009, so it makes finding the required savings challenging.

Once again we have been looking at the services we provide to see how we can reduce expenditure and increase income by working in innovative ways, using new technology and combining services. In this way we can make savings while minimising the impact on the services we provide to residents.

We're pleased to say that through careful management we are still able to invest in important services that matter to residents in Northumberland. This includes investment in the library service and our new community hubs, which, in collaboration with the NHS, have been opening up in areas across the county during the past few months.

We also continue to invest in our young people through the

Leader’s welcome

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intermediate bike routes, the highest cross country trail and the toughest endurance event, helping to make it a prime mountain bike venue. Hosting downhill events throughout the winter each year is key in attracting more visitors to the area at a traditionally quiet time of year.”

Northern Downhill is staging five races in northern Britain this year, culminating in a final joust for prizes at Kielder on 20 and 21 October, when the new trail – which will be used for competitions only - will be employed for the first time. Bike fans are being urged to join weekend trail building sessions. To find out more contact Philip Grimes at: [email protected]

More details of bike routes at Kielder can be found at www.visitkielder.com

“It will be the biggest vertical drop of any downhill trail built in England,” said Philip Grimes from Northern Downhill. “It will be a major challenge getting it done, but the potential to create something really special in Kielder is the incentive.”

Britain is a hotbed for downhill biking and the current world champion, Danny Hart, comes from Redcar in North East England. He cut his teeth in another Forestry Commission woodland – Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland.

Alex MacLennan, recreation and public affairs manager (north east) with Forestry Commission, said: “Kielder lends itself to superlatives and the new trail will be a spectacular addition to the mountain biking scene in Britain. The forest park already boasts the country's longest family and

Hardy trail builders are going up in the world to build the longest competition downhill mountain bike route of its kind in England.

Wielding shovels and pitch forks and armed with gritty determination in the face of winter weather, mountain bike fans expect to have the two mile trail built by October in the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) Kielder Water & Forest Park.

Downhill mountain biking is not for the faint hearted, involving a rapid descent against the clock and complicated technical sections.

The Forestry Commission is working with Northern Downhill on the exciting new trail, which will have its starting line on the 2,000 foot Northumbrian summit of Deadwater Fell.

Kielder on track for new success

Pictured: Riders test a newly built stretch of downhill trail on Deadwater Fell.Pictures by Mark Pinder

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Top attractions throughout Northumberland will be offering free entry and discounts to people living in the county during the annual Residents' Festival on 24 and 25 March this year.

With the date set for the third annual event, the county council is keen to build on the success of previous Residents' Festivals. This year, with new venues joining in, the weekend is set to be even bigger and better.

The festival, now known as Our people our places, aims to celebrate the fact that Northumberland is a fantastic place to live and to give something back to residents in the county.

Throughout the weekend, castles, gardens, stately homes and museums will be opening their doors free of charge or offering generous discounts to visitors from Northumberland.

The event is organised by Northumberland County Council in partnership with leading visitor attractions from across the county. These include: The Alnwick Garden, Cragside, Bailiffgate Museum, Belsay Hall, Bamburgh Castle, Seaton Delaval Hall, Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, Lindisfarne Castle and Priory, Woodhorn, Etal Castle and Newbiggin Maritime Centre.

Attractions taking part include:

?The Alnwick Garden?Bailiffgate Museum, Alnwick?Bamburgh Castle?Belsay Hall, Castle and

Gardens?Chesters Roman Fort?Corbridge Roman Town?Cragside, Rothbury?Dunstanburgh Castle?Etal Castle?Kirkley Hall Zoological

Gardens?Lindisfarne Castle?Lindisfarne Priory?Longframlington Gardens?Newbiggin Maritime Centre?RNLI Grace Darling Museum,

Bamburgh?Seaton Delaval Hall?National Trust Wallington?Warkworth Castle and

Hermitage?Woodhorn, Ashington

Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “Last year thousands of people took advantage of the festival weekend and we hope to build on this success with new attractions joining those that were so popular in 2011. The festival is a fantastic showcase for the county and all the world class venues that are on our doorstep.”

Residents will need special vouchers to receive free or discounted entry to the attractions and these are now available from local libraries, county council offices, tourist information centres and sports centres. Vouchers can also be downloaded from the website for more information visit: residentsfestival.northumberland.gov.ukor phone 0845 600 6400.

Residents' Festival 2012

Pictured: Jennie Collingwood, tourism development manager at Northumberland County Council, with Sami Cowie at Kirkley Hall Zoological gardens one of the new attractions in this year's Our people our places event.

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The county's most

historic outdoor

education centre willre-open next month

boasting improved

facilities and courses.

Zip wire, climbing, abseiling,

canoeing, fencing and archery

will be just some of the activities

on offer to schools and other

groups at the residential outdoor

centre Ford Castle, which lies

between Wooler and Berwick.

School trip provider Chateau

Beaumont announced plans

earlier this year to join forces

with Northumberland County

Council to re-open the centre in

April under a new joint venture

as Ford Castle Adventure

Limited.

Since the decision was made to

close operations at Ford last

August the council has been

working to secure the castle’s

future. By creating a joint venture

the county council believes that

Ford Castle can operate

successfully as an outdoor

centre for at least the next 20

years.

Councillor Tom Brechany,

responsible for asset

management and regeneration

at Northumberland County

Council said: “This is great

news, both for schools looking for inspiring educational trips and for the local community at Ford, which will see business returning to the Castle.”

Peter Smith, managing director of Château-Beaumont said: “This outstanding residential outdoor education centre provided excellent educational opportunities for local schools as far back as the 1950s. It is a wonderful, medieval setting, which inspires its visitors and brings history to life. It fires the imagination of young people and we aim to provide varied learning opportunities, which will help them to discover their hidden talents.”

Lord Joicey of Ford & Etal Estates, who leases the castle to the county council, said: “I'm delighted that the council has reached an agreement with a company to whom it wishes to sublet Ford Castle. Ford Castle

will now be maintained under an

agreed conservation plan,

provide new employment

opportunities for local people

and will hopefully encourage

new visitors into the area.”

Ford Castle Adventure Limited

plans to upgrade facilities whilst

ensuring that the historic

buildings are properly preserved

for future generations. A range

of courses will be designed with

topics to match the National

Curriculum. The company also

wants to maximise the history

and heritage that the area has to

offer - from local attractions such

as Flodden, Lindisfarne and

Bamburgh, to World Heritage

Sites at Hadrian's Wall and

Durham Cathedral.

For further information visit:www.ford-castle.co.uk or phone 0844 800 4278.

New startfor outdoorcentre

Pictured (from left): Councillor Tom Brechany, Lord Joicey and Peter Smith from Château-Beaumont.

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Wildfire experts from

eight European countries

will join Northumberland

Fire and Rescue Service

officers for a special

workshop to be held in

the county later this

month.

The event will take place during

the week beginning 19 March as

part of the European Forest Fire

Networks Project (EUFOFINET).

This ambitious European-funded

two-year project, which was

launched in October 2010,

covers five key themes relating

to wildfire through a series of

seven workshops.

The Northumberland workshop

will focus on good practice in

fighting and suppressing

wildfires. As part of this,

Northumberland Fire and

be hosted by Northumberland

Fire and Rescue Service on

Tuesday 20 March.

Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for


Rescue Service, said: “We are

looking forward to hosting the

workshop and roadshow in

March.

“Our involvement in the

EUFOFINET project has been

very rewarding so far.

Northumberland is now

recognised within the UK as the

lead fire and rescue service on

wildfire training and operational

policy issues.

“By hosting this event and

participating in the EUFOFINET

project we are working hard to

maintain and further develop our

skills so that we can continue to

improve safety and well-being

within our county. We are also

sharing what we learn with our

partners across the UK.”

Rescue Service will lead two field demonstrations in the

Another important element of the workshop is a Regional Roadshow which will demonstrate innovation in fire and rescue equipment.

This one-day event will be the first of its kind in the UK and will

Northumbrian Countryside.

These demonstrations will be based on common scenarios that could be encountered by firefighters tackling wildfires.

Other events taking place in Northumberland throughout the same week will include: presentations on the tactics and strategies used in different countries to extinguish forest and wildfires.

The EUFOFINET delegates, as well as representatives from the USA, will also take part in problem solving exercises linked to wildfire scenarios.

Northumberland represents UK in wildfire project

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Applicants have until Friday 9 March to put themselves forward as potential Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service on-call officers.

Wooler and Berwick are especially in need of more retained firefighters and both stations ran open events in February so that men and women of all ages and backgrounds could find out more about the role and the service.

Wooler crew members, father and son Glen and Jack McWilliams, were just two of the 12 on-call firefighters who were available at Wooler Station to answer questions at the open evening on 23 February.

Glen McWilliams, who has been an on-call firefighter in Wooler for eight years, said: “It's a very rewarding job. I enjoy the adrenaline of working in an emergency service and helping people. You're recognised in the community for what you do and it's good to be part of such a close-knit crew. The training is very thorough and I've used my first aid skills many times outside of work.”

Glen and Jack are self-employed and run The Chocolate Box sweet shop in Wooler. Although initially a bit reluctant to join the service before realising what it entailed, since joining two years ago, Jack is now a dedicated member of the crew.

incidents they are called out to and for involvement in community safety activities.

Retained duty system (on-call) firefighters are able to combine their role with another job. All that is asked is that they are available to respond to a call and reach the retained fire station within five minutes.

Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Being an on-call firefighter gives you the opportunity to learn valuable skills and earn extra money while providing an invaluable service to your community.”

Glen said: “On average we are called out six times per month. The crew is a mix of self-employed people and those who work for companies. We're very grateful to those employers who accommodate their employees during call outs. There are benefits for employers too as they gain the expertise of a trained first-aider who can help with fire safety assessments in the workplace.”

On-call firefighters are paid a retaining fee of between £1,587 and £2,821 per year with an hourly rate of £10.06 while in training. On top of that, retrained firefighters are paid for any

Fire service seeks new recruits

For further details and an application form, please contact Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service HR Department, West Hartford Business Park, West Hartford, Northumberland, 01670 591123 or email: [email protected]

Pictured: On-call firefighters Glen McWillliams and son Jack in their Wooler shop.

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The organisation which will take over responsibility for delivering patient focused, high quality services in the county is already working on shaping those services for the future.

The Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group (NCCG), which covers all 46 GP practices in the county, is developing a three year vision, which will include a strong focus on meeting the long-term health needs of local people. This builds on the group's current local delivery plan for 2011-12.

The group is working closely with the current commissioners of health services in the county – NHS North of Tyne on behalf of Northumberland Care Trust – to take on commissioning responsibilities before the phasing out of primary care trusts in 2013.

Lead GP for the Group, Dr Alistair Blair, who is a partner in the Wellway Medical Group in Morpeth said: “The establishment of CCGs provides a great opportunity for clinicians and other healthcare professionals to commission services which meet the needs of local populations.

NorthumberlandClinical Commissioning Grouplooks to the future

Aiming to help people with long-term conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

“We are ideally placed to understand the needs of our patients and to make sure the services are developed locally to meet those needs.”

The structure of the NCCG will also help ensure there is a local focus to how money is spent on commissioning health services in four localities across the county – North, West, Blyth Valley and Central.

The Group has a high level of clinical and primary care management skills through the engagement of GPs and practice managers as locality directors and business leads.The main aims of NCCG are to focus on driving up the quality of patient care using evidence based practice and integrated approaches.

Dr Blair said: “The NHS Constitution underlines the commitment to delivering care of the highest standard while also making best use of taxpayers' money and we feel this commitment can be clearly tracked to our strategic plan as can the fundamental issue of accountability.”

Jackie Cairns, associate director of commissioning (Northumberland) at NHS North of Tyne who is working closely with the CCG, said: “NCCG has been established in its current form since February 2011 and is building its structures around recognised locality areas.

“Their commissioning strategy is underpinned by the principles of quality and integration as well as meaningful engagement with the public.

“With this local, integrated focus it is envisaged that more locally designed and delivered care pathways will be commissioned.”

Over the coming months, through public, patient and other stakeholder engagement, the Group will be looking to further increase local awareness about the CCG itself and its vision and values.

Dr Blair added (pictured above): “As we move towards becoming a statutory NHS body we are continuing to develop the way in which we work to ensure it is fair and transparent and that we take consideration of current guidance and best practice. We will also continue to develop relationships with our key partners including the local authority and the health and well-being board, other nearby CCGs and future commissioning support services.

“This will all be undertaken with the full participation of the GP practices in the Group and the localities.”

The CCG is focusing its three year vision around a number of key areas:

Public health and preventionWorking with social care partners to proactively improve health and health outcomes for the local population.

Help reduce inappropriate use of emergency services Through a programme of developments that help the transition of services from hospital to community care.

Hospital careReducing the need for hospital care activity through integrated prevention programmes and development of care closer to home.

Long-term conditionsAiming to help patients with long-term conditions maintain independence and quality of life by supporting them and their carers to manage their condition.

Mental health and learning disabilitiesTo ensure services are available for people to support their psychological and physical well-being throughout their lifetime.

End of life careTo ensure people are supported to make choices about their end of life care and place of death and be assured that their choices are respected and dignity maintained.

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Market – best in Britain Hexham's open air market has been named best small outdoor market in an annual competition run by the National Association of British Market Authorities.

The competition, sponsored by KPR Midlink, featured nine categories recognising both large and small markets that are outdoor, indoor, speciality, privately run, local council or wholesale. They also featured Britain's favourite market and the best market attraction.

Councillor Alan Thompson, executive member responsible for markets at Northumberland

Real Deal initiative has given further assurances to shoppers that the goods they purchase are fairly traded and genuine.”

Jeremy Bradin, director of the award sponsors, KPR Midlink Ltd, said: “KPR are very pleased at the response to the KPR Market of the Year competition that once again gave us a very high standard of entries. There were many innovative and interesting entries showing that market managers and market offices are becoming more and more proactive and innovative in these difficult times.”

The winners were announced at the Nabma 'Changing High Street' event in Birmingham at the end of last month.

County Council, said: "It's fantastic that one of Northumberland's markets has been named best small outdoor market of the year. We work hard to ensure that our markets are thriving and that they add vibrancy and vitality to town centres across the county. The council has developed a strategy for its markets to ensure that they continue to develop and improve over the coming years.

"At Hexham the market has seen a significant increase in traders over the last couple of years, made possible by extending the trading area, and supported by additional promotion and support from the council. The recent sign-up to the national

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Shopfronts in Bedlington

are being revived thanks

to grant aid from the

Townscape Heritage

Initiative (THI)

programme.

The THI is a five year

programme during which almost

£2m will be invested in

improvements to Bedlington. It is

being coordinated by

Northumberland County Council

and funding has come from

Heritage Lottery Fund and the

county council, as well as from

the Northumberland Local

Transport Plan for the market

place.

Overall, 19 buildings (25

businesses) will be restored by

early 2013. Grants will be mainly

offered to independent

businesses for restoration and

repair. Nine schemes are

nearing completion and building

work on up to eight schemes will

start later this year.

D.J Lynn & Son, the butcher

(pictured) opened on Front

Street in 1976. The building has

now been restored to its former

glory.

Councillor Tom Brechany,

executive member responsible

for regeneration at

Northumberland County Council,

said: “The regeneration

programme aims to give

Bedlington town centre a new

lease of life – making significant

improvements to the visual

aspects of the conservation area

and it also helps to boost local

trade and bring more people to

the town centre.”

More than £900,000 is available

for building conservation grants.

The scheme is due to end in

December 2013.

This work follows on from other

improvements in the town

including the restoration of the

market place, where the weekly

Thursday market is going from

strength to strength.

A leaflet providing information

about the Bedlington

Conservation Area has also

been published.

Business owner David Lynn said: “We're delighted with the renovations and we've had good feedback from customers. It's good that the whole block of shops has been improved as the architects have ensured that the buildings complement each other. Knowing that the roof and chimneys have been restored, cast iron drainpipes and gutters installed, windows fitted and walls re-pointed is reassuring, especially during these tough economic times.”

Work will begin on Gordon Mackinnon's photography shop later this year. “The THI has opened my eyes as to how my building should be renovated. Without their help I fear I may have gone down a cost cutting route to improve the building with no real thought as to how it stands in town centre. With the help of the THI, I’ll have a building I can be proud of, that helps to improve Bedlington town centre.”

Bestfrontsforward

Thanks for labour of LOVE

The streets of Northumberland are among the cleanest in the country with the help of dedicated resident Douglas Hoblyn.

Mr Hoblyn came to the aid of his local council 10 years ago when he volunteered to design a system to map street sweeping routes in the area.

He said: “I drew up routes with maps, which could be kept in the cabs of the machines. The system was set up for drivers to feedback on a weekly basis, to report any problems, areas for action and non urgent tasks for the future. I drew up the routes for 45 to 50 different areas, covered by two machines.

“He has acted as a critical friend to ensure we always have the customer view of what local people think of the service delivery.

“I would like to personally thank him for his hard work during the past 10 years, which is very much appreciated. I am delighted to recognise his commitment in this way.”

Mr Hoblyn has extended the system to Hexham, Prudhoe, Alnwick and Berwick. He is now working with the council to look at the whole of the 'street scene' which includes lighting, signage and footways. Residents who identify signs in need of replacement, cleaning or other maintenance should contact the county council.

With the introduction of local

government reorganisation Mr

Hoblyn was asked by Andy

Rutherford, head of highways

and neighbourhood services at

the county council, to carry on

with his work in mapping the

routes and to roll out his system

to the other parts of the county.

Mr Hoblyn, aged 81, is originally

from Birkenhead on Merseyside,

but has lived in Morpeth for 31

years. He used his professional

administration skills gained

during a 40-year career with the

Bank of England to organise the

new system for street sweeping.

Andy Rutherford, said: “Mr

Hoblyn has been an invaluable

friend, supporter and

ambassador of our service.

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Pictured: Keith Moore, neighbourhood services (left) and present Douglas Hoblyn with a LOVE Northumberland certificate in recognition of his

service.

Andy Rutherford head of neighbourhood services (right)

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Apprentices past and present from Northumberland County Council shared their experiences to mark National Apprenticeship Week in February.

The campaign, now in its fifth year, ran from Monday 6 to Friday 10 February. This special week is all about raising the profile of apprenticeships on offer and the benefits that they can bring to employers and those seeking a new career.

Northumberland County Council currently employs 120 apprentices and expects to exceed this target in the next year.

Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member responsible for children and young people at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are keen to remind job seekers, employers, teachers and parents about the variety of apprenticeships on offer. These apprenticeships, whether in local government, or in other fields, offer a fantastic springboard to a whole range of careers.

“Speaking to senior officers at the county council who have come through the apprenticeship route it's clear that they appreciate the grounding it's given them. Those currently going through an apprenticeship also speak of the variety of work on offer and the

commitment they bring can be invaluable to the needs of the business.”

Dan Lathan, said: “The apprenticeship programme has helped me to gain skills and experience across all areas of the vehicle maintenance field; I've worked on a range of vehicles including road gritters and grass cutting vehicles. The work is very varied and my apprenticeship has allowed me to learn from specialists in this field.”

John Collins, charge hand on the county council's fleet services team, said: “I learned my trade as an apprentice in the seventies and qualified in 1979 following a four-year programme as a mechanic. I now support other apprentices in the team to develop their skills and support the services we provide in Northumberland.”

opportunities to learn and earn at a time when jobs are in short supply and university fees can be prohibitive.”

Paul Macdonald, site manager for Northumberland County Council's fleet services, started his apprenticeship in 1965, serving his time to qualify as a vehicle maintenance technician. He supervises John Collins who also qualified as an apprentice in the same field and Dan Lathan who has recently finished his apprenticeship.

Paul said: “The programme has changed significantly since I qualified as a time-served apprentice in the sixties but the principles of earn while you learn and gaining skills for life are the same. In my role as site manager, I have supported a number of apprentices and believe that the skills and

Support for apprentices

Pictured (from left): Dan Lathan, recently qualified apprentice, with Paul MacDonald, site manager and John Collins, charge hand, on Northumberland County Council's fleet services team.

For more information about apprenticeships at the county council and around Northumberland call 0845 600 6400 and ask to speak to Debra Lowes or email: [email protected]

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The Getabout voluntary car scheme in Northumberland has become one of the first organisations to sign up to a new web resource to help find more volunteer drivers.

The scheme is run by the Woman’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS) with funding support from Northumberland County Council.

Through Getabout, volunteer drivers offer to take those who do not have access to public transport to places such as doctors' surgeries, to visit friends or relatives or to go shopping.

Getabout has signed up to the new volunteering section of the Northumberland Life website which has been developed as part of the LOVE Northumberland campaign.

The site allows groups to advertise the opportunities they have for volunteers to get involved - with links to the organisation's contact details and further information so that they can find out more.

Councillor Isabel Hunter, executive member responsible for infrastructure and the environment at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Getabout scheme is a superb

and time to help other people within your community.”

Councillor Ian Lindley, executive member responsible for adult care and well-being at the council added: “I am very pleased to see that the Getabout scheme has signed up to the LOVE Northumberland web-resource. Volunteers are essential to this initiative, which makes a very valuable contribution to people's well-being by helping them to become more independent within their communities.”

For more information about volunteering in Northumberland go to: www.northumberlandlife.org

If you think you might be able to get involved in the Getabout scheme and want to find out more, call Rachelle Atchison on 0783 475 3387 or 0845 266 8906.

resource for those residents who don't have access to public transport.

“The council provides funding for the scheme as it gives good value for money where supported bus services cannot be justified on cost or usage grounds.

“There is a great link between schemes like Getabout and LOVE Northumberland because the campaign celebrates and supports volunteering, which is where the new web resource is a superb tool.”

Carol Nevison, service delivery manager for the WRVS, said: “We are always looking for new drivers, and anyone who has a valid driving licence and some spare time on their hands can help us by offering their services. The scheme offers a fantastic opportunity to use your skills

Looking for volunteerswho LOVE their cars

Pictured (left to right): Mrs Shallcross with Getabout volunteerJan Tuckwell.

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Digital TV switchover is the biggest change in television since the introduction of colour.

In September 2012 analogue television will be switched off across the Tyne Tees region. If you do not have digital TV by the time of switchover, you will lose your TV channels.

If you are still watching analogue TV (five channels or fewer) on any of your sets, you need to convert them to digital. Virtually any existing TV can be converted using a Freeview box, a digital satellite service or digital cable.

For older and disabled viewers who may find making the switch difficult, the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme is at hand to provide everything you need to switch one TV set to digital.

Most people will be asked to pay £40 towards the standard option of help. For eligible people on income-related benefits, it's free. This includes easy to use equipment, an approved installer to supply and install the equipment, and a 12 month aftercare service including a free helpline.

If you are 75 and over or eligible disabled, the Help Scheme will write to you directly and in plenty of time to ask if you want help.

If you have any questions about switchover, you can call the Digital UK advice line on 08456 50 50 50 or visit: digitaluk.co.uk.

Northumberland gets set for digital

For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit: helpscheme.co.uk or call free on 0800 40 85 900. Textphone users can call 0800 40 85 936.


A national scheme to improve safety standards for wheelchair users has been introduced by Northumberland County Council.

The Wheelchair Passport Scheme, adopted by the British Standards Institute, aims to improve safety for wheelchair users travelling in motor vehicles.

The scheme gives essential information to taxi and mini-bus drivers and passenger assistants on how a wheelchair should be secured inside a vehicle.

of making sure drivers and assistants have the information they need to keep wheelchair users safe while travelling in vehicles.”

Pictured (from left): Steve Humble, driver; India Brown, Priory School pupil;Ina Thompson, passenger assistant; Amy Archer, Priory School pupil; Sue Burgon, driver and Beth Robson, passenger assistant.

The passport, a small pouch which attaches to a wheelchair, contains information about how to secure the chair and advice about the needs of each particular user.

Pupils from Priory School Hexham helped to launch the passport in Northumberland last month. Parents of the Priory School pupils welcomed the passports as did the taxi drivers who took part on launch day.

Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member for children and young people, said: “This is a simple and very effective way

Passport to safer travel

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People living and working

in and around Ashington

have been thanked for

their views about the

proposals for an exciting

new leisure and

community facility for the

town.

As part of an eight week

consultation, which began on 5

December 2011, questionnaires

were made available to

residents and businesses in

Ashington to seek views on the

proposed sites for a new facility

and the services they would like

to see included in it.

Questionnaires were also

available from public places and

via the county council’s website.

Public information sessions were

also held in December and

January.

The results are now being

considered and details of the

next steps will be available later

this year.

Northumberland County Council

currently has a range of facilities

in Ashington but many are in

need of investment.

During the past year the council

has been exploring the

opportunities for bringing a

range of services together under

one roof and building a new,

high quality centre for those who

live, work or study in Ashington

and the surrounding areas.

A thorough review of a number

of possible sites for the facility

has been conducted and the list

has been narrowed down to two

possibilities.

They are the former Asda site in

the centre of town and the

former hospital site on West

View.

Both sites have been chosen

because of their central location

and the impact they will have on

the revitalisation of the town

centre. Discussions are

underway with both land owners

about the possibility of buying

them.

The council's executive has

already agreed to a substantial

investment of up to £20 million

for a new or a fully refurbished

multi-purpose, modern centre

which is likely to incorporate a

pool, gym and studio space, a

registrar’s office, a library

service, access to information,

advice and council services, a

café and meeting space.

Additional services and activities

that might be provided include

healthcare information services,

such as a doctor's surgery,

pharmacy, learning and skills

development opportunities and

a wider range of sporting

activities.

Ashington community consultation

21


Aliens and robots have invaded Woodhorn to take part in an exciting exhibition that will have sci-fi fans flocking to the museum.

Costumes, props and machines from popular TV and sci-fi film blockbusters have been brought together for the exhibition, which runs from February until Monday 3 September.

Featuring in the exhibition are costumes from Star Trek: Enterprise, Andromeda, Red Dwarf, Lost in Space and The Chronicles of Riddick. There are aliens from Star Wars, X files, Doctor Who and of course Alien itself. No sci-fi exhibition would be complete without a range of robots and the machines from Red Planet Robot, Robocop and ABC will not disappoint.

11th February – 3rd September 2012

www.experiencewoodhorn.com

sci-fi too. We have transformed our gallery space so it provides the perfect atmosphere and backdrop for this exhibition. It really does promise to be a super show whether you are a real fan or just enjoy a little escapism.”

Organisers are expecting the exhibition to be a big hit with visitors. Woodhorn's Exhibition Officer Liz Ritson said: “People have flocked to see this show when it has been at other venues, and we know that here in the North East, we enjoy our

Invasion runs at Woodhorn until 3 September 2012

Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm (plus Monday and

Tuesday in school holidays).

Admission: £3.95* adult, £3.50* concs, £2.95* child, £12.50

family (2+2) (*includes giftaid donation). All day parking £3.

Woodhorn, QEII Country Park, Ashington, NE63 9YF.

Phone: 01670 528 080.

Admission to the rest of Woodhorn's displays, exhibitions and

buildings is free. Visit: www.experiencewoodhorn.com

Alison Nichol, Northumberland

Stop Smoking Service Manager

at Northumbria Healthcare NHS

Foundation Trust, said; “It's

never too late to stop smoking,

and I would urge anyone who is

thinking of quitting to pop along

to the drop-ins and see what

help is available. We offer one-

to-one support during the day, in

the evenings and at weekends

as well.”

The financial benefits of smoking

soon add up too. For the

average smoker in one year you

could save more than £2,500

(figures based on a 20 a day

smoker paying £6.95 per packet

of cigarettes).

Dawn added: “I would definitely

say to others to have a go at

quitting, it's not only improved

my health but the money I've

saved from not buying cigarettes

now means me we get to go on

more holidays and I can finally

afford to decorate my house.”

Single mother Dawn Penman is celebrating a year without cigarettes after her daughter inspired her to quit her 30-year addiction.

Dawn, 40, from Newbiggin a nurse and mum to eight-year-old Megan Jane, said: “I started smoking when I was very young, and had my first cigarette when I was 7. But it was when I was 13 that I began to smoke more regularly, and up until about a year ago I was smoking 40 to 60 cigarettes a day.”

Dawn's father was also a heavy smoker and she saw first hand the affects of smoking on his health. Her mother had to give up work to care for him for 10 years due to his ill health. And his life was cut short at 49 after a series of health issues, including a stroke, emphysema and blindness.

Dawn said: “With everything that happened to my dad and having my family, in particular my daughter Megan, constantly on at me to quit I felt pressure to do something about it.

“I don't know how I could have done it without the help of NHS Stop Smoking Service. The sessions are all over the place, and if I couldn’t make it they were really flexible and always provided alternatives. I can't imagine ever having a cigarette now. They gave me expert advice and kept in touch so if I felt like I was struggling with the

cravings I had someone to talk to. I also found chewing gum really helped with cravings too.”

Praise for the Stop Smoking Service

22

Pictured: Dawn Penman who stopped smoking a year ago urges others to do the same.

NHS Stop Smoking Service in Northumberland runs drop-ins at Ashington Hirst Welfare Centre, 4pm to 6.30pm every Wednesday and at Briardale Community Centre in Blyth 4pm to 6.30pm every Thursday.

Evidence shows that you are up to four times more likely to quit if you use the help of NHS Stop Smoking Services. As well as the drop-ins, the Stop Smoking Service in Northumberland has more than 40 clinics throughout the county providing 120 hours per week of stop smoking support.

For NHS stop smoking services in Northumberland call 01670 813 135 or text 'save' and your postcode to 80888 to find your nearest service. A public awareness campaign promoting NHS stop smoking services is also currently running across the North of Tyne area.

23


A successful road safety

scheme will be rolled out

once again across the

county by the Safer

Northumberland

Partnership.

For the past two years,


Northumbria Police and


Rescue Service have led an

initiative aimed at cutting

motorbike related accidents on

the county's roads.

This year, new road signs

warning bikers about the

dangers of speeding and

cornering will be put up on rural

roads throughout the county in

key locations where police have

received reports of dangerous

driving.

The striking signs, designed to

make bikers think twice about

speeding, will now be posted in

more accident black-spots

across Northumberland.

The original scheme was

launched in 2010 after residents

raised concerns with the

partnership about bikers driving

dangerously on country roads

especially during the summer

months.

Councillor Anita Romer,

executive member for public

protection, said: “Over the years

there have been a number of

lives lost on roads in the county.

Command, Jo Farrell, said: "We've had some extremely positive feedback from bikers, other motorists and the general public about the signs. They seem to be making a difference on the roads and are making people think about their driving and their speed. We will do all we can to make Northumberland's roads safer for everyone."

The scheme, which runs from April to October each year, the peak time for motorcycle traffic on Northumberland's rural roads, is underpinned by enforcement; police officers will be patrolling the county’s roads taking positive action with anyone caught speeding or riding dangerously.

Chief superintendent for Northumberland Area

months when the signage was

out in Northumberland. The

success of this scheme

indicates that these warning

signs can have a positive impact

on the behaviour of people who

may otherwise drive

dangerously on our county's

roads.”

Last year there were no fatal

motorcycle accidents during the

Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for


Rescue Service, said: “The signs

remind people of the potentially

horrific consequences of driving

irresponsibly, or driving at

speed. We want drivers and their

passengers to enjoy the

countryside but to treat the area

with respect and understand the

hazards presented on rural

roads.”

Dangerous drivers warned

Pictured (from left): Clare Hart, community safety officer Northumberland County Council, Ritchie Leighton and Callum McDougall, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, Sgt Neville Wharrier, Michael Connelly, community safety officer, Councillor Anita Romer and Sgt Andrea Teasdale.

24

A £21 million scheme for Morpeth has received final funding approval from Defra and the Environment Agency.

Work will now continue on drawing up a detailed design of the scheme, which includes a new flood storage area on the River Wansbeck on the Mitford Estate. New defences will also be built at Mitford Road, High Stanners and around Oldgate Bridge, and a few existing defences in the town will be raised where necessary.

In May 2011, the government introduced the Partnership Funding model to encourage external contributions so that taxpayers' money is spread across more schemes.

Under this model, Northumberland County Council will contribute up to £12 million towards the scheme and a further £10.6 million will be funded by government.

Ian Hodge, flood and coastal risk manager for the North East said: "We are delighted by the minister's announcement. Together, the Environment Agency and Northumberland County Council aim to reduce the risk of flooding to more than 1,000 homes and businesses in the town.

“The announcement is the result of much hard work by ourselves, the council and the community. It is a fantastic example of what can be achieved by working in

Richard Benyon, Minister for the Natural Environment and Fisheries, said: “The new flood defence schemes will bring huge relief to tens of thousands of households.

“Small towns like Cockermouth and Morpeth became household names after the devastation and distress caused by flooding in recent years.

“Residents here and in many towns across the country are reaping the rewards of the partnership funding model brought in to enable more flood defence schemes to go ahead.

“We now expect to exceed our goal to protect 145,000 more homes from flooding by 2015.”

This is one of 60 flood and coastal risk schemes, across the coutry which were approved in February and will begin construction in 2012/13.

partnership. We aim to submit a

planning application for the

scheme this summer and to

start work early next year. Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of


said: “This is a very important

scheme for the community of

Morpeth and the council is

pleased that, despite tough

economic times, it has been

able to commit funding to

ensure that it goes ahead. We

are working in partnership with

the Environment Agency to

develop a detailed design for the

scheme.” The scheme will provide

protection from the River

Wanbeck against a flood which

has a 0.73 per cent chance of

happening in any one year.

It will also help to protect against

a flood from Cotting Burn,

Church Burn and Postern Burn.

Morpeth scheme given final funding approval

The River Wansbeck flooding Morpeth in 2008.


25

Plastic fantastic recycling rewardThe first of eight monthly Northumberland winners in the North East Recycling Rewards Scheme prize draw have received their prizes.

Helen and Keith Cooper from Seaton Delaval were the first winners and chose a laptop computer from the list of prizes.

Winners of the second monthly prize were Jim and Claire Fraser from Morpeth who chose a Blu-Ray player and an iPod Touch.

Mr Fraser said: "We like to do our bit on the recycling front but never thought that it would lead to us winning something like this. My wife saw the competition on the website when she was checking for the Christmas collection dates, and thought she would give it a try."

Pictured (from left): Councillor Alan Thompson and Sue McClellan from Waste Aware North East presenting the recycling competition prizes to Keith Cooper from Seaton Delaval and Jim Fraser from Morpeth.

people of Northumberland are very conscious of the role they can play in making our society more sustainable and self sufficient. Our thanks go to the Coopers and the Frasers in particular and the many others in our county who are setting the pace.”

Winners can also choose to donate their prize to a local community group of their choice. The competition runs until July 2012. To be in with a chance of winning all you need to do is apply for a unique sticker pack at www.recycle-more.co.uk/nerewards or call 0844 844 4546.

The personalised stickers can then be applied to empty hard plastic bottles or aerosol cans before placing in the recycling bin as normal.

The scheme is being run by Waste Aware North East in conjunction with Northumberland County Council and aims to reward environmentally conscious residents and raise awareness of the opportunity to recycle hard plastic bottles and aerosols.

This unique promotion is only taking place in five council areas in the North East of England and has been funded entirely by Defra and Valpak Limited, a national provider of environmental solutions. The prizes have been provided by thehut.com

Councillor Alan Thompson, responsible for waste management at Northumberland County Council, said: “The

26

Volunteers are needed to join the Northumberland Safeguarding Children Board (NSCB) and help to build closer ties with the local community.

The NSCB is made up of senior representatives from all organisations in Northumberland who are involved in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Two local residents are required to become lay members of the board. Their role will be to help support these organisations and develop closer links with the community so that there is a better understanding of the board's child protection and child safety work across the county.

Those chosen for the role will attend board meetings and contribute to discussions. They will also be able to challenge decisions helping to ensure the NSCB is focussed, responsible and responsive.

The role is a voluntary one, although expenses such as travel costs will be reimbursed if required.

Ideally, candidates will live in Northumberland and have close ties with local community organisations. A commitment to

Could you help safeguardchildren and young people?

improving welfare and safeguarding for children and young people is essential as is the ability to contribute to the work of the NSCB, ask questions, challenge assumptions and offer feedback to provide and an independent voice to the board.

An enhanced CRB disclosure with a Children and Adults' barred list check will be required for this role. You may not apply if you have been employed by any agency represented on Northumberland Safeguarding Children Board in the past 12 months.

If you would like an application pack or to discuss the role further, please contact Saira Park.Phone: 01670 533503Email: [email protected]

The closing date for applications is 19 March 2012.

27


Parking enforcement in Northumberland is set to change next month.

On 16 April 2012 The Department for Transport will formally complete the Civil Parking Enforcement Order and Northumberland County Council will take over the enforcement of on-street parking from Northumbria Police.

A team of civil enforcement officers and supervisors has been recruited to oversee street operations and the county council has produced a handy guide to the changes, and advice about how not to get a penalty charge notice.

It is important to note that parking restrictions themselves are not changing, only the means of enforcement. With more officers and supervisors to oversee enforcement the aim is to reduce illegal parking, better manage traffic flow,

Parking – changes pendingNorthumberland area command superintendent Mick Paterson said: “We're always looking to resolve local issues and tackle the priorities that matter to our communities and from speaking to residents and local businesses we know inconsiderate parking is a concern throughout the county.

“These changes to parking regulations will benefit our communities. We'll be working closely with the parking enforcement officers and while they focus their attentions on addressing parking issues, police officers can continue with their other duties that keep the county safe."

and improve road safety throughout the county.

“We will continue to work closely with Northumbria Police to ensure that the transition and future arrangements run smoothly.”

Councillor Isabel Hunter, responsible for infrastructure and environment at Northumberland County Council, said: “Effective parking control allows us to unblock our streets making the roads safer, especially in emergencies. These new regulations will free up valuable police resources and allow for the creation of a bigger team to cover the county.

To find out more about the changes visit: parking.northumberland.gov.uk

28

Whats on?

March

Thursday 8 March Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbigginwww.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk

Sunday 11 March Cragside, Rothburywww.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside

Friday 16 MarchWallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Saturday 17 MarchCragside, Rothburywww.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside

Saturday 17 MarchKielder Water & Forest Parkwww.bordercountiesrally.co.uk

Sunday 18 MarchWallingtonwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Until 3 SeptemberWoodhornT: 01670 528080www.experiencewoodhorn.comSee amazing props and costumes from sci-fi films and television shows including Star Wars, Dr Who, Aliens and many more.

A new interactive and audiovisual exhibition explores life at the hilltop fortress and civilian settlement on the northerly edge of the Roman Empire.

Tuesday 20 MarchWallington, MorpethBooking essential: T: 01670 773600www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

The role of women in Newbiggin's History

Just Add Water – National Science and Engineering Week

Meet the Conservator

Just Add Water – National Science and Engineering Week

Brick and Steel Border Counties Rally

Make Things With Your Mum

INVASION!

Housesteads Roman Fort: re-opens Easter 2012

Talk Time at Wallington: The Golden Age of Northumbria

Wild Walk at Wallington – Tree-mendous Trees

Northumberland Residents' Festival

Burgham Horse Trials

Woodland Heritage Day

Run Northumberland Half Marathon

Talk Time at Wallington: The Life of Charles Phillips Trevelyan

Medieval Craft Training

Allendale Challenge

Water Wizards

Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens

Lambing Weekend

Saturday 24 March

Wallington, Morpeth

Booking essential: T: 01670 773963

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March

Northumberland

www.northumberland.gov.uk

Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March

Burgham

www.burghamhorsetrials.co.uk

Sunday 25 March

Wallington, Morpeth


Sunday 25 March

Wallington, Morpeth

www.runnorthumberland.org

Tuesday 27 March

Wallington, Morpeth



Wednesday 28 to Friday 30 March

Alnwick

www.alnwickcastle.com

Saturday 31 March

Allendale

T: 01669 620333

www.northoftynesearchandrescue.org.uk

Saturday 31 March to Sunday 15 April

Cragside, Rothbury

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside

Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April

www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk

Celebrate the first signs of spring by visiting the new born lambs.

AprilSunday 1 to Saturday 14 April

Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin

www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk

Tuesday 3 April

Plessey Woods, Bedlington

E:[email protected]

Tuesday 3 April

Wallington, Morpeth



Tuesday 3 to Thursday 5 April

Alnwick

www.alnwickcastle.com

Kirkley Hall

Friday 6 April

www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk

Friday 6 to Monday 9 April

Belsay Hall

www.english-heritage.org.uk/events


Warkworth Castle

www.english-heritage.org.uk/events


Ford and Etal Estates

T: 01890 820338

www.ford-and-etal.co.uk

Lets go and fly a kite!

Bird/Bat Boxes

Forest Family Fun

Medieval Jesting

Easter Egg Decorating with

Kenspeckle

Easter Family Fun Trail

Easter Family Fun Trail

Easter Activities for all the

Family

Easter Eggstravaganza

Easter Eggcitement

Friday 6 to Monday 9 April, 11am to 4pm

Wallington, Morpeth


Sunday 8 April

Plessey Woods, Bedlington

E: [email protected]

29

Whats on?


Wild Walk at Wallington – Foraging with Wild Harmony

Hexham Book Festival

Talk Time at Wallington: The Painting of a Hat and Ruffles – Suky the Sequel

Bat Walk

Cinema night - ‘Up’

Try Triathlon

Portrait of a Lady

Sunday 22 AprilWallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Monday 23 April to Thursday 3 MayHexhamwww.hexhambookfestival.co.uk

Tuesday 24 AprilWallington, MorpethBooking essential: T: 01670 773600www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Wednesday 25 AprilWallington, MorpethBooking essential: T: 01670 773963www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Friday 27 AprilNewbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbigginwww.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk

AshingtonSaturday 28 April T: 0754 0412086E: [email protected]

Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 AprilWallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

A Tale of Two Dresses

North Tyneside Pipe Band

National Hunt Racing

Morpeth Northumbrian Gathering

Haltwhistle Spring Walking Festival

Saturday 28 April to Sunday 1 July (excluding Tuesdays)Wallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Sunday 29 AprilWallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Hexham RacecourseHexhamT: 01434 606881www. hexham-racecourse.co.ukFixtures throughout the year including ladies day on Sunday 24 June.

Friday 13 to Sunday 15 AprilMorpethTel: 01670 513308www.northumbriana.org.ukColourful festival celebrating the traditional music, dance, craft, dialect and heritage of Northumberland.

Saturday 28 April – Monday 7 MayHaltwhistlewww.haltwhistlewalkingfestival.orgWalks between two and 14 miles and a chance to learn more about drumming, bird watching, singing and conservation.

Hogwarts Characters

Building for Birds

Dragon Quest

Run Northumberland Cragside 10k

Bellingham Vintage Vehicle Day

Talk Time at Wallington: The “Other” 1066

St George's Weekend

Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 AprilAlnwickwww.alnwickcastle.com

Thursday 12 April Wallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Friday 13 to Sun 15 AprilAlnwickwww.alnwickcastle.com

Saturday 14 April Cragside, Rothburywww.runnorthumberland.org

Sunday 15 April Bellingham www.bellingham-heritage.org.uk

Wednesday 18 AprilWallington, MorpethBooking essential: T: 01670 773600www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 AprilWallington, Morpethwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington

Sport Relief Miles Northumberland There are hundreds of Sport Relief Mile events taking place across the country on Sunday 25 March. Here is a list of those running in Northumberland:

lThe Newbiggin Mile Newbiggin-by-the-sealThe Druridge Bay Country Park Mile NorthumberlandlThe Berwick Rugby Club Mile Berwick upon TweedlThe Haltwhistle Mile HaltwhistlelThe Seaton Delaval Hall Mile Whitley BaylThe Courant Mile Corbridge

For more information visit: www.sportrelief.com/the-mile Secure a place at your nearest Mile now. Adults £6; children £3; family of four £15.

To find out more about events happening across the county go to www.visitnorthumberland.com or www.northumberlandlife.org

30

CouncilmeetingsThursday, 1 March, 2012

Monday, 5 March, 2012

Tuesday, 6 March, 2012


Wednesday, 14 March, 2012

Thursday, 15 March, 2012

Monday, 19 March, 2012


Wednesday, 21 March, 2012

lArea Planning Committee - NorthAlnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA

lExecutiveCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lPlanning and Environment CommitteeCouncil Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Committee - WestVenue to be confirmed

lArea Committee - South EastNew Hartley Community Centre, St Michaels Avenue, New Hartley, Northumberland, NE25 0RP

lCommunities & Place Overview & Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lCare and Well-being Overview & Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lEconomic Prosperity & Strategic Services Overview and Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Planning Committee - South EastAdamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington

lArea Planning Committee - WestProspect House

lHomes for Northumberland - Strategic BoardCouncil Chamber, Alnwick

Thursday, 22 March, 2012

Monday, 2 April, 2012

Tuesday, 3 April, 2012

Wednesday, 4 April, 2012

Thursday, 5 April, 2012




Monday, 16 April, 2012




lFamily and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lExecutiveCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lPlanning and Environment CommitteeCouncil Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lCounty CouncilCouncil Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Planning Committee - NorthAlnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA

lArea Committee - WestVenue to be confirmed

lArea Committee - South EastLynemouth Resource Centre

lArea Committee - NorthVenue to be confirmed

lEconomic Prosperity & Strategic Services Overview and Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Planning - South EastIsabella Community Centre, Blyth

lArea Planning Committee - WestCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lFamily and Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny CommitteeCommittee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

31


31


Tuesday, 1 May, 2012

Wednesday, 2 May, 2012

Thursday, 3 May, 2012



lHousing and Care Services Working Group

Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth

lPlanning and Environment Committee

Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lCounty Council

Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth

lArea Planning Committee - North

Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street,

Alnwick, NE66 1LA

lExecutive


lCommunities & Place Overview & Scrutiny

Committee


Monday, 14 May, 2012



lArea Committee - North

Venue to be confirmed

lArea Committee - West

Venue to be confirmedlArea Planning Committee - South East

Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare

Centre, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate,

Choppington

lArea Committee - South East

East Hartford Community CentrelArea Planning Committee - West

Venue to be confirmed

A full list of meetings is available at

www.northumberland.gov.uk. Meeting dates

and venues can change. Before attending

please check the website or contact

committee services on

0845 600 6400 to confirm details.

Easter bin collection dates 2012

Garden waste collections

All bin collections, recycling, general rubbish and garden waste,

will be one day late during the week beginning 9 April (the week

of Easter Monday).

The garden waste service will start again during

the weeks beginning 5 March and 12 March -

depending on where you live. 2011 customers have been sent an invitation to renew the

service. If you would like to join, please contact us to find out if

the service is available in your area on 0845 600 6400 or by

email to [email protected]. You can find out more and check your scheduled bin days for

any of your collections by using the postcode checker at

www.northumberland.gov.uk/waste

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Documents

Northumberland News - Spring 2012