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Saturday 26th August 2017 The Bishop Press Issue 217 Page 1 Published at: First Floor, Town Council Offices, Civic Hall Square, Shildon, DL4 1AH. Telephone/Fax: 01388 775896 Duty journalist: 0790 999 2731 www.bishoppress.com email: [email protected] B I S H O P P R E S S T h e of our wonderful community At the heart Saturday 26th August 2017 Issue 217 Fully archived online at bishoppress.com email us at: [email protected] Continued on page 6 @BishopPress Former Mayor of Bishop Auckland, Lee Brownson is now a shadow of his former self. During the last few years Former Mayor a shadow of himself after lifestyle change his weight steadily in- creased to 17stone 4lbs, and just 8 months later, he now weighs in at just 13st 6lbs. Lee said; “I knew when I was the Mayor I’d put on a little extra weight due to all the meals and lifestyle however the trigger point was at Christmas when I was dressed as Santa Claus and during speaking to the children the belt popped open and I jokingly said ‘Oh Santa’s eaten too many mince pies!” So, on the 1st of January he made a new year’s reso- lution to cut out all the junk food and no alcohol for at least two months. At first he found it quite dif - ficult not to give in to the temptation but he had the will-power and determina- tion. He said; “Most of my clothes were tight and didn’t fit anymore and I didn’t want to buy bigger sizes. I thought if I could lose a stone I’d be happy with that, but to lose 4 stone is something I never thought I would ever achieve.” Lots of local people have been asking him... ‘What’s the secret, how many Following the Govern- ment’s commitment to provide access to a minimum of 2 megabits per second (Mbps) download speeds, a broadband subsidy scheme was launched to help eligible residents. Part of the eligibil- ity criteria is that you’re unable to access download speeds of 2 Mbps or more, and are not in any fibre current fibre broadband rollout plans. You can apply for a voucher worth up to £350 towards the hardware and installa- tion costs to get connected to alternative broadband technologies such as satel- lite, 4G and wireless. You would still be required to pay any additional costs, such as the monthly service charge, which starts at £10. The scheme is open to both residents and businesses. Applications need to be submitted by 21st December 2017. A guide and FAQs are attached; and further in- formation and the applica- tion form are available at www.digitaldurham.org/ better-broadband/. If you’re unable to complete the application form online, email digital. [email protected] or call 03000 261160 leaving a short voicemail about your request. Money available for faster broadband Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone in weight by making “basic lifestyle changes.” 47-49 Main Street, Shildon, DL4 1AF Tel: 01388 772671 30-31 Bondgate, Darlington, DL3 7JJ Tel: 01325 463303 web: www.hackettandbaines.co.uk ELECTRIC RISE RECLINERS by Sherborne and Celebrity with 5 years warranty OVER 20 IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY Manual recliners & settees to match Park outside and shop at leisure or a selection can be brought to your door, free of charge IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW? Tel: 01388 606660 Crime and Road Traffic Offences • Matrimonial Family • Children • General Litigation Personal Injury Claims Conveyancing Business Leases Wills & Probate www.cwbooth.co.uk quality car sales 01388 778492 FIND US ON FACEBOOK
Transcript
Page 1: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017The Bishop Press Issue 217 Page 1

Published at:First Floor, Town Council Offices,

Civic Hall Square, Shildon, DL4 1AH.

Telephone/Fax: 01388 775896Duty journalist: 0790 999 2731

www.bishoppress.comemail: [email protected] Bishop press

The

of our wonderful communityAt the heart

Saturday 26th August 2017Issue 217

Fully archived online at bishoppress.com email us at: [email protected]

Continued on page 6

@BishopPressFormer Mayor of Bishop Auckland, Lee Brownson is now a shadow of his former self. During the last few years

Former Mayor a shadow of himself after lifestyle change

his weight steadily in-creased to 17stone 4lbs, and just 8 months later, he now weighs in at just 13st 6lbs.

Lee said; “I knew when I was the Mayor I’d put on a little extra weight due to all the meals and lifestyle however the trigger point was at Christmas when I was dressed as Santa Claus and during speaking to the children the belt popped open and I jokingly said ‘Oh Santa’s eaten too many mince pies!” So, on the 1st of January he made a new year’s reso-lution to cut out all the junk food and no alcohol for at least two months. At first he found it quite dif-ficult not to give in to the temptation but he had the will-power and determina-tion. He said; “Most of my clothes were tight and didn’t fit anymore and I didn’t want to buy bigger sizes. I thought if I could lose a stone I’d be happy with that, but to lose 4 stone is something I never thought I would ever achieve.” Lots of local people have been asking him... ‘What’s the secret, how many

Following the Govern-ment’s commitment to provide access to a minimum of 2 megabits per second (Mbps) download speeds, a broadband subsidy scheme was launched to help eligible residents. Part of the eligibil-ity criteria is that you’re unable to access download speeds of 2 Mbps or more, and are not in any fibre current fibre broadband rollout plans. You can apply for a voucher worth up to £350 towards the hardware and installa-tion costs to get connected to alternative broadband technologies such as satel-lite, 4G and wireless.

You would still be required to pay any additional costs, such as the monthly service charge, which starts at £10.The scheme is open to both residents and businesses.Applications need to be submitted by 21st December 2017. A guide and FAQs are attached; and further in-formation and the applica-tion form are available at www.digitaldurham.org/better-broadband/.If you’re unable to complete the application form online, email [email protected] or call 03000 261160 leaving a short voicemail about your request.

Money available for faster broadband

Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone in weight by making “basic lifestyle changes.”

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Page 2: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017 The Bishop PressIssue 217Page 2

Save the date and get ready to dance and get fit for a good cause! On Wednesday 6th September, from 7pm until 9pm at King James Academy there will be a one off Latin Fitness Party in aid of the MRI Scanner Appeal for County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. The class will be hosted by a Latin American dance instructor and entry costs just £4 with all proceeds going to the scanner appeal.

Charity Latin fitness class in aid of MRI Scanner Appeal

Properties available in Woodhouse Close EstateOne bedroom flat and two/three bedroom houses available for rent on Lusby Crescent.

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Friday 8th September at 7.30pm in St. Andrew’s South Church Bishop Auckland will be the first opportunity to hear how well the society’s mag-nificent Steinway Grand piano sounds in this lovely acoustic, played solo by the international solo pianist, Noriko Ogawa. Whilst the piano has been used for duets and accompaniment earlier this season, Noriko’s solo programme of music by Mozart, Chopin, Takemitsu, Debussy and Prokofiev will be a real treat as the final concert in Bishop Auckland Music Society’s summer season.Noriko has achieved considerable prestige in Europe, America and in her

native Japan where she is a national celebrity. Ogawa is also in demand as a jurist, regularly adjudicating the piano final and grand final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year Competition.Parking is readily available within the church yard, with level set-down and easy wheelchair access.A spokesperson said: “Don’t miss a wonderful evening of music in these delightful surroundings and the opportunity of chatting with friends over a glass of wine in the interval.”Advance tickets are £13.50 from Brian Varley on 10388 606075 or from Brother-ton’s music shop opposite Morrisons car park.Tickets are also available on the door, priced at £15.

Renowned pianist to perform in Bishop

Internationally renowned pianist, Noriko Ogawa will play St Andrew’s Church in Bishop Auckland.

Bishop Auckland Baptist Church, next to the hospital is hosting a worship on

Sunday 27th August at 10.30am which, they say will “not be as you expect!”

Cafe worship

Page 3: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017The Bishop Press Issue 217 Page 3

Rotary Club president, Nigel Bell and Escomb Primary School head teacher, Wendy Gill with the young writers who took part in the Rotary Club’s competition.

Rotary Club launches writing competition at Escomb school

Bishop Auckland Rotary Club visited Escomb Primary School at the end of last term to involve the school’s pupil in a pilot writing competition devised by the club. The pupils were given the topic of Reflection and were allowed to choose to express their ideas in

either prose or poem form. The pupils each received a certificate and the panel of judges, including two teachers, the rotary club’s ex-president, an actor and the current president, had a difficult job to choose the winner from an excel-lent group of submitted items.

This year each pupil received a certificate and a prize. A spokesperson said: “The Bishop Auckland Rotary hope to run the competi-tion next year and enter the top written items in to the regional competition and on to the Uk competi-tion.”

Mayor visits Bowling Club

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The mayor of Bishop Auckland, Cllr Adam Zair, along with his father Cllr Sam Zair, called in to see members of Cockton Hill Bowls Club celebrating new fitted shutters to their pavilion. The Mayor also tried his hand at the sport and proved very adept at the sport!

A woman suffered serious injuries after the car she was in left the road and collided with a road sign and telegraph pole.The collision happened at 11.40pm on Tuesday, August 22nd on Maude Terrace, near Greenfields Road in St Helen Auckland.A 27-year-old man was driving a Ford Focus RS when, for an unknown

reason, it left the road and collided with a road sign and telegraph pole before coming to a halt.The driver fled the scene but has since been arrested.His passenger – a 28-year-old woman - was trapped in the car before being taken to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, with serious injuries.

Nobody else was in the car at the time of the collision.The road was closed between 11.40pm and 4am. No other vehicles were involved.Any witnesses to the colli-sion, or anyone who knows any information on the whereabouts of the driver should call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 552 of August 22nd.

Driver caught after fleeing scene

Woodhouse Close Church Community Centre offers a twice weekly service for a Day Club, Lunch Club and Meals On Wheels.Each service is provided every Tuesday and Thursday with the Day and Lunch clubs allowing local people to get together and have fun as well as enjoying a wholesome lunch.The Day Club, open from 10am-2pm, offers activities including the use of PCs, bingo, games, quizzes and raffles.The Lunch Club, which sits from 12 noon until 2pm offers healthy low cost meals and social time.The Meals On Wheels service delivers healthy

low costs meals to the door by a dedicated volunteer team.Prices for the Lunch Club and Meals on Wheels are just £3.80 for a main meal and a dessert and can be ordered from the centre.A spokesperson added: “We also offer a varied range of other services including a furniture project, thrift shop, parent and toddler group, credit union, art classes and other activity groups.”For more information contact the centre on 01388 450 838, by email at [email protected] or visit their website online at www.woodhouse closechurch.org.

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Page 4: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017 The Bishop PressIssue 217Page 4

Some of the crafts visitors can try at the Craft Skills Festival.Photo: Jamie Sproates, courtesy of Auckland Castle Trust.

Step back in time at Auckland Castle this Autumn

Families can weave their own magic this autumn in a traditional festival at Auckland Castle.The Craft Skills Festival, a celebration of heritage building and traditional crafts, will take place at the castle on Saturday, September 16th and Sunday, September 17th.Visitors of all ages will have a chance to try their hand at a variety of traditional crafts including weaving, pottery and stone carving, with a range of tailored children’s activities also running throughout the weekend.Experts in blacksmith-ing and stained glass will be in attendance to give live demonstrations while festival goers can also browse a wide range of food and craft stalls.The Craft Skills Festival is one of a series of events planned at Auckland Castle this autumn, with other highlights including family-friendly arts and crafts, floral-themed events and opportunities to learn more about local history.A special Heritage Open Days event on Saturday, September 9th and Sunday,

September 10th will give visitors the chance to take sneak peek inside the Castle and St Peter’s Chapel, handle objects from the collection and chat to experts about the building’s restoration.And if the Craft Skills Festival has proved an inspiration, a range of introductory workshops, from felting and willow work to illumination and leaded glass, are available throughout October and November.The opening of the North East’s new Mining Art Gallery on October 21st will offer visitors the chance to delve further into the region’s industrial history and culture.It will house the Gemini Collection of more than 420 works by local artists such as Tom McGuinness and Norman Cornish.Visitors can explore the stories behind the art together on a family trail and all visitors can learn more about the paint-ings and artists in free curator-led tours on the last Wednesday of every month.There’s also plenty to keep

youngsters occupied during October Half Term, from October 23rd to October 28th, as a programme of arts and crafts activities, Put Yourself in the Picture, comes to the gallery.And, inspired by the art and tales of community life, workshops on proggy mats, leatherwork and weaving will be on offer in the gallery in November.Back at Auckland Castle, all ages can enjoy a family friendly Halloween event on Friday, October 27th and Saturday, October 28th.Daisy Arts’ All Hallows Walk will lead groups through the parkland under the cover of darkness to en-counter surprise perfor-mances from characters from local history.Auckland Castle Trust’s Engagement Director, Liz Fisher said: “Autumn is the perfect time to explore Auckland Castle and we have put together a packed programme of events for all ages this year.”For more information on all upcoming events, visit: www.aucklandcastle.org/special-page/your-visit/ or call 01388 743 750.

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The Roman Army will march on County Durham this month as it prepares to reinforce the garrison at an historic fort.Members of the Roma Antiqua re-enactment group will welcome visitors to Binchester Roman Fort on Bank Holiday Monday (28th August).The group will be offering an insight into life in the Roman Army with displays of arms, armour and equip-ment.There will also be the chance to see some of the items in action, in-cluding bows and arrows, sling-staffs and a full scale replica of a ballista catapult.Younger visitors may even find themselves being recruited and given the chance to defeat the bar-barians themselves.The site’s well-preserved Roman ruins will also be open to the public.Dr David Mason, Durham

County Council’s principal archaeologist, said: “A visit to Binchester is always a fantastic day out but our Bank Holiday events really are not to be missed.“Visitors will once again be able to take a look at our commanding officer’s house and the adjacent bath building.“However, this year, they will also have the oppor-tunity to view part of the even more impressive bath building situated outside the fort.”Events and activities start at 11am, with the full programme repeated from 2pm.Admission is £5 for adults, £4 for concessions and £3 for children. Visitors are asked to note that the museum is currently only able to take cash payments. Dog are not permitted at the site, with the excep-tion of assistance dogs. For more information, call 01388 663 089.

Romans return to Binchester

Members of the Roma Antiqua re-enactment group will be at Binchester Roman Fort on Bank Holiday Monday.

To celebrate 90 years of service to the community, owners of the Eden Bus Company of West Auckland are presenting a slide show and talk all about the company since it was estab-lished in 1927.There will be two excel-

lent speakers at the event: John Godfrey and Charles Marshall. The presentation will take place at West Auckland Memorial Hall in Darlington Road, West Auckland on Saturday 9th September from 1.30pm.

Eden Bus Company 90th celebration

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Page 5: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017The Bishop Press Issue 217 Page 5

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Page 6: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017 The Bishop PressIssue 217Page 6

The Green Tree Scooter Club is riding Coast to Coast for the Air Ambulance service.

Scooter Club riding Coast to Coast for Air Ambulance

The members of Bishop Auckland’s Green Tree Scooter Club’s are gathering together over the weekend of 2nd and 3rd September for a Coast to Coast ride to Whitehaven then onto Seaton Carew next day, in memory of their friend, local Bishop Auckland man, Chris Weighill. Neil Cowell, speaking on behalf of the club, said: “We hope to raise money for the fantastic Great North Air Ambulance, a service that most scooter-ists and motorcyclists rely on and hold dear to their hearts.“We know times are tight, but if your readers can

support us with a few pennies then great!“If not, cheer us on anyway!”Anyone wishing to donate can do so on the Justgiving page set up to colect funds at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gary-miller21.

The Club was formed in 2016 and has around thirty members, riding out from the Green Tree public house in Bishop Auckland. The club meets irregularly each month as members are not always on the same work pattern but anyone interested in finding out more, or in joining the group can contact them via their Facebook page by searching for @GTSCBA.Great North Air Ambulance Service provides emer-gency medical cover for the North of England, North Yorkshire and Cumbria an area of approximately 5500 square miles with a popula-tion of 3.5 million people.

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An intensive free training course designed to provide the skills and knowledge needed to work in retail or customer care is being offered to County Durham residents.County Durham Housing Group’s two-week Get Into Retail and Customer Care programme will help anyone keen to start a career in the sector.Running from Monday, 18th September at Auckland Youth and Commu-nity Centre in Woodhouse Close, Bishop Auckland, the course offers essential skills like how to work with consumers and improving listening and interpersonal skills.Designed by experts from the sector and delivered by friendly and approach-able trainers, sessions will focus on understanding the sales process, exceeding customer expectations and the differing roles within the industry. During the 10

days of training there will also be the chance to gain Level 2 qualifications in health and safety, first aid and manual handling.Sean Robson, Commu-nity Training Coordinator at County Durham Housing Group, said: “With Christ-mas suddenly just around the corner, there’ll be lots of job opportunities coming up in the retail sector. This course will give a real head start to anyone looking to get into a retail or customer service job over the season.“It’s an intensive course so that within just two weeks, learners can improve their confidence and pick up the key things they’ll need when applying for a job or attending an interview. “More information on the course, and details of how to enrol, is available from Sean Robson at County Durham Housing Group on 0191 349 7753 or [email protected].

Free course for budding retail workers

Sean Robson, Community Training Coordinator at County Durham Housing Group.

times do you go to the gym, what diet are you on, are you going to a slimming class?’Lee said; “There’s no real secret, just basic lifestyle changes. I try and do least 30 minutes of gentle exercise a day by walking and simple things like using the stairs instead of the lift at work. “Rather than eating crisps, cakes and biscuits I now have fresh fruit smoothies and began drinking more water instead of fizzy pop.“When I’m eating I make sure I stop when I feel full rather than eating eve-rything on the plate and feeling bloated afterwards.

“On a Sunday morning, I go for a bike ride for about 10-15 miles.“I’m not counting calories, I still eat what I want and enjoy the odd dessert with a meal or a night out drinking, but not half as much as I did before.”He added; “I hadn’t really noticed how much weight I had lost and how differ-ent I look until I was stood talking to someone in the town and someone I hadn’t seen for about a year ignored me and walked passed. “A few minutes later she came back and apologised and said she didn’t even recognise me!”His weight loss has also inspired several of his

From page 1 friends and work col-leagues to lose weight and become healthier. Brian Hegarty, who works as a security guard, said: “I was shocked and amazed at how much weight he had lost and thought if he can do it then so can I. “I’ve got a few tips from him and now I’ve changed my eating habits and now regularly go for bike rides.”Lee said; “If I can inspire other people to become healthier, lose weight and help them make changes in their life then it’s a win-win situation. “The only downside with losing the weight is that all my clothes are now too big so I need to buy a whole new wardrobe.”

Ex-Mayor adopts healthy lifestyle

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Page 7: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017The Bishop Press Issue 217 Page 7

Tuesday 5 September, 2.00pm - 5.00pm Bishop Auckland Town Hall Library

Thursday 7 September, 10.00am - 2.00pm Newgate Street Shopping Centre, Bishop Auckland

Adult Learning & Skills Service

Interested in learning? To find out more about our new

courses starting soon, come along to our enrolment events in September.

Drop-in to our enrolment session where you can:● Meet our tutors and find out more about the courses available● Sign-up and guarantee your place on one of our courses● Get advice on your first steps into a new job or further education

Contact usTo find out more, call us on 03000 266 115 (9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Thursday; 9.00am - 4.30pm Friday) or visit www.durham.gov.uk/adultlearning

Employers across County Durham are being asked to share their thoughts about recruiting people who have previously committed a crime.A survey has been launched by Cleveland Police and Crime Commis-sioner Barry Coppinger, Durham Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner Ron Hogg and local prison, probation and rehabilita-tion services, to consult with local businesses and organisations.Criminal justice agencies want to gain a greater un-derstanding of employers’ attitudes to employing people who have previ-ously offended and to find out how they may encour-age them to consider it in the future.Gaining employment plays a crucial role in preventing people from committing further crimes, however prisons report that just over 26% of prisoners enter employment on release.Cleveland PCC Barry Cop-pinger said: “One of my key commitments is to

reduce the cycle of re-offending in Cleveland and employment can be a useful way for offenders to make positive changes in their lives.“Whether you would consider employing people who have previously offended or not, I would encourage you to fill out this short survey so we can better understand the views of businesses and organisations in our region.”Durham PCVC Ron Hogg said: “I believe most people who have offended hope for the chance to make a fresh start and

Local business survey asks about employing offenders

contribute to society. “Whilst this isn’t the case for everyone, the respons-es to this survey will help us to better understand the concerns, or barriers, local organisations may have in offering opportu-nities to people who have offended. “By working together we can help to reduce long-term cycles of re-offend-ing.”Employers are encouraged to take part in the short survey at the following link: https://www.survey monkey.co.uk/r/V2S8HYC.The survey closes on Friday 1st September.

The Singing the Faith Com-munity Choir reports that it is going from strength to strength and is now able to visit more care homes, and is also taking bookings to sing at various churches.The group also l;ooks forward to meeting new members who enjoy singing well known hymns. Their next meeting is on Friday 2nd September

at 11am at the Commu-nity Centre Common Room, Runnymede Court Bishop Auckland. Anyone interested in joining the choir, inter-ested in finding out more information about the choir’s activities or anyone who would like to book the choir should get in touch with Pamela on 01388 604151 (evenings only).

Singing the Faith

Innovations, the Day Care service provider of leisure, learning and employment opportunities for vulner-able adults, is inviting the public to its annual Summer Fayre on Tuesday 29th August at its centre at The Junction, 154

Newgate Street in Bishop Auckland.The Summer Fayre will host many stalls including a tombola, crafts, bric-a-brac and a candy cart among many others. The Fayre will be open from 10.30am until 3pm.

Innovations to host Summer Fayre

Wellbeing for Life is holding a free Family Fun Day in St. Helen’s Parish Centre on Friday 1st September from 10am till 2pm. There will be outdoor ac-tivities, craft activities, and traditional games, and,

if you wish, you can make your own lunch. Although this is a family event, adult supervision is essential. Places must be booked in advance so please call 01325 327442.

Free family fun day at St Helen’s

Page 8: Th e At the heart of our wonderful community Former Mayor ... · Before and after: Former Mayor, Lee Brownson in May 2016, left and today, right, after shedding almost four stone

Saturday 26th August 2017 The Bishop PressIssue 217Page 8

SportLocal leagues, competitions and events...

Bishop press The

It has been another great period for St Mary’s with the club being named as the main sponsors at the Newcastle United v Spurs game on Sunday 13th August thanks to Paul Anderson Accountants. The club had two St Mary’s players as mascots for the day: Joe and Louis Weighill aged 5and 6 years. Joe and Louis were also invited into into the dressing room and met the players in a great day for them both. St Mary’s also had a full page in the programme and the club’s name read out over the tannoy.On the pitch, the U14 Aces not only went to the Hartlepool tournament on Saturday and got to the

semi-finals, but they then went to the Redcar Tour-nament on Sunday and in a fantastic day, won the cup final after going through 5-4 on penalties in the semi final.Teams are returning after the break and the pitches are all looking good. Bishop Auckland FC first team trained at the club on Monday while the Ladies side trained on Tuesday along with six other teams from St Mary’s.On Wednesday, Bishop Auckland Girls and another six teams trained, followed by eight teams training on Thursday along with the U23s playing a friendly game which they drew 2-2 with West Auckland WMC.

St Mary’s sponsor Newcastle United

Durham Amateur Football Trust (DAFT) is hosting a Sports and General Knowledge Quiz at Bishop Auckland FC’s Heritage Park on Thursday 14th Sep-tember, starting at 8pm.The quiz will involve teams of a maximum of four players competing for cash prizes. Entry is just £1 per player and all are welcome

to attend. For more information about the work of the Durham Amateur Football Trust, which records the sporting and social history of amateur football in County Durham, visit their website at www.thedaft.org.uk or their Facebook page by searching for @daft2006.

DAFT quiz

Bishop Auckland Rugby Ladies team is inviting families to West Mills playing fields at Bishop Auckland Rugby Club on Bank Holiday Monday.There will be fun and games, cash prizes, in-flatables from Auckland Castle, ice cream from Wonderful Whippy and the

chance to try your hand at rugby! The ladies have also arranged a BBQ, raffle, fancy dress touch rugby competition, gift stalls, tug of war, face painting and much more. More information is avail-able online at facebook.com/barufc.

Rugby club fun day

The public’s views are being sought on proposed changes to timetables at County Durham swimming pools, including at Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex.

Views sought on pool timetable changes

People are being asked for feedback on proposed changes to timetables at swimming pools across the county.Customers will be able to give their views on pool programmes including at Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex until Sunday, 3rd September.Residents are asked to view the new draft time-tables and then feedback via an online survey, which can be accessed at www.durham.gov.uk/swimming.Paper versions of the survey are also available in centres. The proposed changes are part of the Swim Local Pilot, a national project supported by Sport

England aimed at increas-ing swimming participation and are based on feedback from users who have said what activities would make them swim more. The £1.5 million invest-ment from Durham County Council alongside £540,972 funding from Sport England will see the introduction of new sessions as well as the upgrading of some facili-ties.Su Lewis, projects and transitions manager at Durham County Council, said: “Swimming is the largest participation sport in County Durham and this feedback opportunity gives people the chance to give their views on the draft timetables which in-

corporate the new sessions being introduced. “We believe that the changes being made will encourage even more people to get in the water and become more active.”A number of new family sessions have already been introduced to keep children entertained throughout the summer holidays, including aquafun sessions, giant obstacle courses and adult and child sessions where children can invent their own games and meet Brock the badger as they build their water confidence.For more information on the new sessions visit: www.durham.gov.uk/inth epoolthissummer.

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