raf flypast for wwii jessica hoping to make a splash at 65 feb 2011.pdf · 2011-01-31 · free...

FREE monthly community magazine for Ponteland and district

P O N T E L A N D • M I L B O U R N E • M E D B U R N • P R E S T W I C K • K I R K L E Y ISSUE 65 | FEB 11

Jessica hoping to make a splash at

2012 Olympics

RAF flypast for WWII Spitfire pilot Tom

New fines for irresponsible dog owners

County council delays cuts to local services

email: [email protected]&views2

Pont News and Views is published by Ponteland Town Council in conjunction with Ponteland Community Partnership. If you would like to submit an article, feature or advertise in the magazine, contact: Tel: (0191) 3408422 Mob: 07954 157939 Email: [email protected] Write: Cian creative pr, 5 East Boldon Road, Cleadon Village, SR6 7SH

Produced by Cian creative pr

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Former Spitfire pilot and Prisoner of War diesBy Muriel Sobo

Tom Hughes was a 19 year old when he volunteered for the RAFVR in 1940 and won his wings the next year.

He was initially disappointed to be sent to the Central Flying School in Wiltshire to instruct new pilots but many of his fellow officers lost their lives in missions at this time.

He went to North Berwick to train on night fighters, the Blenheims and Beaufighters but his ambition was to fly Spitfires. This was soon realised after further training at Grangemouth and Biggin Hill.

Tom was part of the vast assembly of air power built up in North Africa and Malta in 1943 to cover the invasion of Sicily. After the German retreat from Sicily Tom was testing a captured German Messer Schmidt when the plane crashed into a vineyard but fortunately he had bailed out.

Surviving a crash by using his parachute made him eligible for membership of the unique Caterpillar Club, whose members were awarded a tiny gold caterpillar by the owners of the American firm who made the parachutes, IRVIN.

As the Allies pushed into Italy, Tom was No 2 in the 43 Squadron, commanded by a Polish pilot, and he was flying very long hours. On 18 December 1943, he was on a mission around the fiercely contested Monte Cassino when his Spitfire took a hit from the German anti-aircraft batteries.

The next thing he knew he was in a Field Hospital with a German padre saying prayers over him. At least they had saved his life! Tom suffered severe injuries with badly burned lower limbs and a cracked head.

He was eventually moved to a prison hospital in Stuttgart where he spent over a year before a prisoner exchange brought him back home. He was highly amused to find that he was swapped for three Germans.

After the war Tom went up to Cambridge to read Mechanical Sciences and at the same time he was chief instructor to the undergraduates in the gliding school. These three years helped both his recovery from wartime trauma and to readapt to civilian life.

In 1947 Tom met Joan when his sister invited some girlfriends for the weekend. Ever the beau, he hired a plane for the afternoon and took the girls flying. They were terrified and thrilled! He said that Joan ‘passed muster’ and last June Tom and Joan celebrated their diamond wedding.

Flight Lieutenant Hughes worked for a number of major companies before coming north in 1968 to work for Ronson. He died aged 89 years on the last day of 2010.

Joan, of Old Station Court, Darras Hall, said: “He was such a kind man and would help anybody – people often asked for his help and he would always give it.”

Tom was a most hospitable gentleman and a great raconteur. Loved by all who knew him, he will be greatly missed. Joan was awarded the MBE in 1983 for her work as county organiser of the WRVS and she is a former Captain of Ponteland Ladies Golf Club.

A Service of Thanksgiving was held on January 27 at St Mary’s Church, Ponteland, followed by a flypast by members of Fl Lt Hughes’ squadron. We’re hoping to bring pictures in the March issue. Fl Lt Hughes is pictured paying tribute at

Remembrance Sunday at Ponteland Memorial Hall. Inset, Tom in his RAF days.

A former WWII Spitfire pilot believed to be the only member of the wartime RAF to bail out of an enemy fighter has died aged 89.


t: 01661 872 111Number One Broadway, Darras Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9PW

[email protected]

Residential Sales and Lettings

5* WINNER OF THE UK RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY AWARDS 2010FOR THE BEST ESTATE AGENCY IN

THE NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE REGION* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WE ARE SELLING AND LETTING PROPERTIESIf you are looking to sell or let your property please call for a FREE No obligation Appraisal

Available 24/7 to talk property

Callerton Court, Darras Hall

• Five Bedrooms• Three Bathrooms• Two Reception Rooms• Kitchen/Dining Room• Utility Room• Triple Garage

Guide Price: £595,000 To Let: £2000pcm


• Four Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Three Reception Rooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Double Garage• Walking Distance to Local Schools

Guide Price: £479,950

The Rise, Darras Hall

• Four Bedrooms• Three Bathrooms• Three Reception Rooms• Kitchen/Dining Room• Utility Area• Double Garage


Lindisfarne, Jesmond

• Two Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Living Room• Off Street Parking• Easy Commute to Newcastle City Centre


Guardians Court, Ponteland

• Four Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Open Plan Reception Rooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Garage• Walking distance to Local Schools & Amenities


Linden Way, Darras Hall

• Three Bedrooms• Family Bathroom• Living Room/Dining Room• Kitchen• Utility Room• West Facing Rear Garden


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Jessica Thielmann crowned a successful 12 months – during which she twice represented Great Britain – by striking gold in the Paul Bergen Short Course International Championships in Portland, Oregon, in December.

The dedicated 17-year-old led from the start in the 800m freestyle, having earlier taken two silver medals in the 400m freestyle and 400m individual medley with two personal bests.

The distance freestyle swimmer had already claimed fourth place in the European Junior Open Water Championships in August in Hoorn, Holland as well as flying the flag for Great Britain at the European Short Course Championships in Eindhoven.

She was also crowned champion in the 400m freestyle and 200m individual medley events at the English Schools National Championships at Watford in October, smashing former Newcastle swimmer Sue

Rolph’s 200m championship record, which had stood for 15 years, by nearly two seconds.

After spending Christmas at home in Chapel Park with her supportive parents Helen and Will and elder sister Sophie, 18, she was off again – for a ten day training camp in Dubai with the national development squad.

Her coach of four years at City of Newcastle Swimming Club Ian Oliver believes Jessica could yet force he way into the Great Britain Olympic Games squad.

He said: “Jessica has enjoyed a really good year and is one of the region’s best young prospects. She has a chance of making the Olympic squad for 2012. It will not be easy as she has double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington and Derwentside’s Jo Jackson ahead of her in the rankings, but a lot can happen in the next 18 months.”

PCHS Year 12 student Jessica trains four hours per day, swimming before and

after school, where she is taking A levels in Sport, Geography, Business Studies and Psychology, and if she enjoys similar success in her exams next year Jessica hopes to study at university in the US.

Speaking of her Olympic dream, she said: “It still seems surreal. I’d be so happy if I made it but I can’t really imagine it. It’s what I’ve always wanted, and to be there would obviously show everything had paid off. There’s still about 18 months to hopefully build my strength and performances and bring my times down. But it’s in my sights.”

Proud mum Helen put Jessica’s initial interest and determination in swimming down to sibling rivalry, adding: “She has always been competitive!”

Jessica receives sponsorship from Benfield Motors but any other businesses interested in supporting her can contact mum Helen at [email protected] or on 07534 223540.

Jessica hoping to make a splash at 2012 OlympicsA Ponteland High School student is being tipped to make a splash at London 2012 after enjoying a record breaking year on the international swimming stage.

pontnews&viewswww.pontelandtowncouncil.co.uk 5

t: 01661 872 111Number One Broadway, Darras Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9PW

[email protected]

Residential Sales and Lettings

5* WINNER OF THE UK RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY AWARDS 2010FOR THE BEST ESTATE AGENCY IN

THE NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE REGION* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

WE ARE SELLING AND LETTING PROPERTIESIf you are looking to sell or let your property please call for a FREE No obligation Appraisal

Available 24/7 to talk property


• Five Bedrooms• Three Bathrooms• Two Reception Rooms• Kitchen/Dining Room• Utility Room• Triple Garage

Guide Price: £595,000 To Let: £2000pcm


• Four Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Three Reception Rooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Double Garage• Walking Distance to Local Schools


The Rise, Darras Hall

• Four Bedrooms• Three Bathrooms• Three Reception Rooms• Kitchen/Dining Room• Utility Area• Double Garage


Lindisfarne, Jesmond

• Two Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Living Room• Off Street Parking• Easy Commute to Newcastle City Centre


Guardians Court, Ponteland

• Four Bedrooms• Two Bathrooms• Open Plan Reception Rooms• Breakfasting Kitchen• Garage• Walking distance to Local Schools & Amenities


Linden Way, Darras Hall

• Three Bedrooms• Family Bathroom• Living Room/Dining Room• Kitchen• Utility Room• West Facing Rear Garden


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PROGRAMME OF WORKS REPORT

Ponteland Park Tree Management PlanThe contract has been awarded and the start of work is awaited.

Slope Protection WorksThe replacement trees will be planted shortly.

CCTVInstallation is awaited. This has been delayed by the poor weather conditions.

Fencing at Twizell Place Play AreaThe order has been placed for the additional works and a start date is awaited.

Hedge cutting – ParkThe works were scheduled be carried out by the end of January.

Park footpathsWork has started on this contract; unfortunately the weather conditions had delayed completion.

BUDGET 2011/12The Council approved a nil percent increase in the precept for 2011/12 but also reserved the right to reconsider revisions in January before the final submission to the County Council if there were changes to the cost and extent of services provided by NCC. From various correspondence received in late December/January it appeared that the County Council would have to make substantial savings on its budget and had therefore written to all parish and town councils stating that there could be reductions/cessation of certain services. See article on page 8.

REGENERATION UPDATEIt was reported that discussions are ongoing with the developer and the County Council and steady progress was being made.

SNOW & ICE ADVICEA document relating to the above has been produced and features in a separate article in Pont News to give some assistance to residents in winter conditions. See article below.

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY COUNCIL REPORTCouncillor Veronica Jones told town councillors that a meeting would be held with Northumberland County Council and parish and Town Councils in relation to the recent severe weather conditions. She also referred to the need for substantial cuts in the County Council budget and the potential effect on services. Coun Jones also referred to the Government White Paper on Public Health which was an exciting prospect for the County.

MAYOR’S REPORTThe Deputy Mayor reported on the New Year’s Day Wheelbarrow Race which had been well attended. See article on p17.

This report is based on the minutes of the Town Council meeting held on January 12.

SNOW AND ICE ADvICE FROM PONTELAND TOWN COUNCIL The past two months have seen the worst snow for 45 years, and the severe winter conditions could return before the onset of Spring.

Northumberland County Council is the authority responsible for winter road maintenance in the Ponteland area, but clearly does not have the resources to treat and clear all minor roads.

The Town Council is offering the following advice to residents on how they, if able, can assist in snow and ice clearance:

1. Be prepared, have a proper snow shovel.

2. Keep some rock salt as a stand-by so that you are able to distribute a little around your own paths and drives.

3. If at all possible keep your car on your own drive or in a garage (if you have one) to aid access for snowploughs/gritters.

4. If possible try and clear your own path and the path outside your house. On estate roads and cul-de-sacs avoid shovelling snow and ice into piles that block roadways or pavements.

5. If you have a neighbour who is not able to carry out any clearing of snow/ice, can you help them? Do they need a path to a waste bin or a repeat prescription or groceries?

The Government has stated that as long as you take care when clearing snow and or ice and do not leave snow in awkward places, you should not be concerned about being sued.

If you have any suggestions about snow/ice clearance that you think could be useful, please contact Ponteland Town Council by emailing [email protected] or calling (01661) 825092 or writing to Ponteland Town Council, Unit 1, Meadowfield Court, Ponteland, NE20 9SD

Pont News reader John Hewett sent us this photo he took of an otter just before Christmas by the River Pont.

John, of Dunsgreen, Ponteland, spotted it near to the Fox Covert Lane bridge on December 23 and thought it would be a nice addition to our February issue.

Otters are inquisitive, playful and intelligent semi-aquatic mammals, often appearing to take childlike enjoyment in sliding around on muddy banks or in snow. Fast, agile swimmers, they live in holts around water edges.

You don’t tend to see them too often around Ponteland, so we got some expert advice on lutra lutra, to give the otter its proper Latin name.

Kevin O’Hara, Conservation Officer at Northumberland Wildlife Trust, said: “The otter is thankfully undergoing a bit of a resurgence in the UK after years of persecution and pollution - they are now fully protected and numbers are recovering.

“In the North East we are very fortunate in that our rivers are largely very clean and support a good range of prey species for otter to live on. Otters essentially live on fish but also take many mammals, amphibians and birds to supplement their diet when things are hard.

“Their recovery is a good sign that our wetland environments are themselves in a good condition, as the presence of otter signifies a cleaner environment. If you want to know more about otters and their whereabouts, just keep an eye out for their characteristic signs or listen for their whistling calls at night.

“If you are lucky enough to see one, stay still and quiet and watch from a distance and you may be rewarded with an unforgettable experience. But remember to keep your dog on a lead and out of the water and don’t disturb their environment too much. They are here because they want to be, because things suit them - they can easily disappear again if things are not right.”

Have you taken any photos recently of animals or birds not normally seen in the Ponteland area? Send them to [email protected] and we may feature them in the magazine.


Ponteland has its own Tarka

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT IN PONTELAND 2011As the Fairtrade Steering Group prepare the final bid for Ponteland to gain Fairtrade Town status, we will celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight from February 28 to March 13.

Events will include the traditional ‘Big Brew’ coffee mornings in Ponteland Churches offering a chance to sample Fairtrade products and learn more about how Fairtrade helps producers in developing countries. Ponteland schools will also be holding assemblies and other events to mark Fairtrade Fortnight.

For more information contact Steve Helm, Chairman of Ponteland Fairtrade Steering Group, at [email protected] or on (01661) 824109.

email: [email protected] pontnews&views8

For over 15 years the pharmacy on Brewery Lane, Ponteland, has been run by husband and wife team Peter and Pam Hopley.

They have worked hard to run the business, satisfy their customers and keep the villagers healthy.

They have now retired and the business has been taken over by Miss Jessica Taylor who worked there originally as a Saturday girl when she was a pupil at the High School. Jessica is a local girl and a fully qualified pharmacist who will bring knowledge and enthusiasm to her new role.

Peter and Pam met many years ago when they were both studying pharmacy at University of Aston in Birmingham.

Peter took up posts in London and then he moved to Newcastle to take on the position of Pharmaceutical Officer for the Health Authority but later reorganisation of the Health Service led to another change of direction.

At that time they heard that the village shop, Moss the Chemists, was available and Peter and Pam were able to take it over.

Customers have enjoyed a very good service and have said that both the Hopleys would be very much missed.

Peter said he had always enjoyed pharmacy work both in the hospital and in the community because of the importance of being involved in the supply and management of medicines.

Village shops like the Pharmacy need our support, since Peter says they have great competition from the big chains and from the supermarkets and often little support from within the local NHS.

The Hopleys thank all those who have supported them over the last 15 years and are confident that Jessica will continue to offer and develop a high standard of service.

Family pharmacy changes hands after 15 yearsBy Muriel Sobo

The authority wrote to town and parish councils across the county in late December, warning that a 12% cut in the county council budget this year could mean axing a number of services, or transferring responsibility to the smaller councils.

The letter by Caroline Bruce, Corporate Director of Local Services, said: “...it is a realistic possibility that a number of services will either reduce or stop altogether...A viable alternative in such circumstances is for some services to be provided by the Parish/Town Council.”

The services identified were:

• Bus shelters and public seating• Burial grounds• Commons and village greens• Parks, playing fields, playgrounds and other open spaces for the local community • Public halls and community centres • War memorials and other monuments• Public conveniences• Flower beds and floral displays• Grass cutting• Litter collection• Maintenance of localised signage• Youth provision.

The letter sparked a major protest from the county’s 140 town and parish councils, arguing they did not have enough time to

consider the implications and costs of taking on additional services.

Now the county council has said any changes would not come in this April. In a new letter dated January 18 Council Leader Jeff Reid said he was “pleased to announce that the county council will not be considering proposals to stop delivering any of the local services listed within our recent letters to you” and hoped this would “give us a more realistic time frame to work together”.

Talks will now take place between the county and town/parish councils over the next six months to look at future provision of the services.

Prior to the original cuts warning in December, Ponteland Town Council had approved a budget and hoped to levy a precept request of £336,000, which would have meant no increase in PTC’s part of the overall Council Tax bill, as publicised in last month’s Pont News & Views.

As a result of the discussions planned on potentially transferring various functions to the Town Council and the work required to identify the costs and feasibility of taking on new powers, the Town Council is now reconsidering its original budget for 2011/12.

The county council has extended the deadline for town and parish councils to submit their precepts from January 24 to February 11.

More realistic time frame

In a statement, Coun Reid said the county council will have to make around £110m savings over the next four years and was looking at all its services to see if they can be provided in a more effective or efficient way.

He added: “One option we have been exploring is for parish councils to consider taking on some local services that are currently provided by NCC.

“It has never been our intention to impose the delivery of services onto parishes or that residents would be charged twice for services, however I understand there has been some misunderstanding of the issue and I have spoken to many parish councils to understand fully their concerns.

“In setting the 2011/12 budget, the Liberal Democrat Administration will no longer consider proposals to reduce or remove the local services listed within our recent communication. Instead, we will work with parish councils over the next six months to understand the precise local picture, the costs and implications for each parish and come to a mature agreement.

“The scale of the financial challenge remains but I hope this will give us a more realistic time frame to work together to ensure any valued services can continue to be delivered and sustained.”

County council delays proposed cuts in local servicesProposed cuts to a raft of local services in Ponteland from April have been shelved after a U-turn by Northumberland County Council.


Driver should own up after crashing into my car

I would like through your magazine to say a ‘thank you’ to the driver who hit a car on Friday December 10 in the Ponteland Library car park.

It would have been very courteous of you to have either reported it to the library and perhaps find out whose car it was or, at the very least, left a note on the windscreen.

You must know who you are. Judging by the damage to the vehicle that was hit, your car must have some visible damage too. The area in which we are talking about had been cleared of snow, therefore this could not be used as an excuse.

This has now happened on three separate occasions, each time the guilty culprit not owning up. If you are guilty of causing damage to other people’s property then at least have the good grace to own up.

May I also point out that car parking bays in question are for ‘library customers and staff’ but seem to be constantly abused by

people dropping children off at school and even those heading into the nearby shops.

If you haven’t noticed, there is a large car park opposite...why not use it?

A very angry motorist

Have you found my mum’s wedding ring?

On December 28 my mum broke her arm after a fall and entrusted her wedding ring into the care of my dad who promptly lost it!

He believes this happened in the vicinity of Broadway shops, Darras Hall, after visiting the Post Office, Co-op, chemists and bakers.

The ring is unusual, being of a lattice design. If anyone has found it my mum would be eternally grateful to be reunited with it and my dad could finally come out of the dog house!

Claire AndersonParklands Darras Hall

New book of wartime memories for sale

Ponteland U3A (University of the Third Age) has just produced a new book entitled Our Wartime Memories.

The book of 60 pages is a collection of articles written by members, detailing their memories of life in the UK and throughout the world.

Copies are priced at £5 and can be obtained from me by phoning (01661) 822178 or at any meeting of the U3A.

A monthly meeting is held in St Mary’s Church Hall at 2pm on the first Wednesday of every month.

TL AlmondWestern Way Ponteland

Your lettersAppeals for a mystery driver to come forward, a missing wedding ring and news of a new book of wartime memories in this month’s letters...

March issue deadlines: The March issue will be delivered on March 1 and 2. Deadline for all copy and adverts is Monday February 14. Businesses should be aware that all bookings for advertisements must be paid in full by the deadline to ensure placement in the March issue.

Letters on all issues are welcomed by Pont News & Views but the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to amend any submitted letters for legal or other reasons. All letters submitted should include the writer’s name and address.

Fiona Hall MEP Lib Dem MEP forthe North East

www.FionaHall.org.uk

How to contact me:By post:

55a Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HNBy email:

[email protected] phone:

0191 383 0119


Northumberland Fuchsia SocietyThe next meeting is on Thursday February 3 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at St. Matthew’s RC Church Hall, Ponteland.

Ponteland Photographic Society The society’s next meeting is on Monday February 7 at Merton Hall, Merton Road, Ponteland from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. We meet at 7.30pm every Monday evening from September through to April in the large room at Merton Hall, with a short break over the Christmas/New Year holiday. Meetings usually last two hours. See our website at www.pontelandphotographicsociety.co.uk

Darras Hall WIThe next meeting of the Darras Hall WI is on Thursday February 10 at 2pm. The speaker will be a representative from the John Lewis Partnership telling us about The History of Waitrose. Our meetings take place on the second Thursday of each month in the URC Church Hall, Broadway, Darras Hall. All meetings start at 2pm and usually last two hours. Visitors are most welcome to come along. The charge to visitors is £1.50 per meeting.

North East England Group of the Alpine Garden SocietyThe speaker for Monday February 14 is our own John Richards, introducing Rhododendrons and primulas – ideal bedfellows. John needs no introduction to the Group but just to remind you he is Emeritus Professor of Botany, University of Newcastle; author of eight books including Plant Breeding Systems and Primula; an AGS judge; past AGS President; Vice-Chair, RHS Joint Rock Garden Committee and organizer of the Moorbank Botanic Garden Volunteers. Rhododendrons and primulas are two large and decorative genera which tend to occur in the same mountain ranges in the wild and associate well in the garden. John will be looking at these plants in the wild and how well they can go together

in the garden naming the most suitable primulas for naturalising. Our meetings take place in St. Mary’s Hall, Thornhill Road. The doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. The charge to visitors is £2 per meeting. Details from Terry Teal at [email protected] or 0191 4132574.

Ponteland Senior Gentlemen’s ClubThe Monday February 14 speaker and topic are Capt. Sandy Kinghorn - South Atlantic: Post Conflict 1982-85. Meetings are held on the second Monday of every month in the lounge of Ponteland Memorial Hall, Darras Road, at 2.30pm. Membership is open to gentlemen aged over 55 who are not in full time employment. The annual subscription is £10. For further details contact Donald Lloyd at [email protected] or on (01661) 872661.

Ponteland Floral Art ClubThe next meeting is on Tuesday February 15 from 7.30pm at Ponteland Memorial Hall, Darras Road. Advance notice that the AGM on Tuesday March 15 starts at 7pm.

Over 60s Social ClubThe Over 60s Social Club would like more ladies and gentlemen to join. We meet every fortnight on Thursday afternoon at 2pm - 4pm at the Memorial Hall Darras Rd, Ponteland from January 20. We have speakers, bingo, beetle drives, summer outings and provide light teas. The subscription is £5 per quarter. For more information call (01661) 872760.

Ponteland Local History SocietyAt our meeting on Thursday February 17 from 7.30pm – 9.30pm at St Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland, antiques expert Arnold Burman will talk on Chatting about antiques. He was the resident Antiques Expert on BBC Radio Newcastle and has appeared in BBC TV’s Antiques Roadshow and with Arthur Negus in Going for a Song. He has been

on the Newcastle Museum’s and Art Gallery Advisory Committee and is a past Chairman of the Friends of the Laing Art Gallery, and of the Friends of the Science Museum in Newcastle. He will bring along antiques to his talk and will happily discuss any items brought by members of the audience. Visitors are welcomed at a special price of £1.50 per person. For more information see our website at www.ponthistsoc.freeuk.com

Wendy’s Weekly Writing MasterclassesBishop Auckland author Wendy Robertson is holding a trio of writing masterclasses at Ponteland Library, starting later this month. After an early career in education, Wendy became a full time author and has written 24 novels, a book of short stories, and the occasional article. She has also been Writer in Residence in a woman’s prison. The classes run on Thursdays for three weeks from February 24 from 10.30am to 3.30pm. The cost for all three sessions is £15 and places are limited, but can be secured on a first come first served basis by calling (01661) 823594.

Ponteland Market The relocated Ponteland Market at Merton Way shopping centre is on between 9am and 4pm on Friday February 25.There will be a good selection of stalls providing organic meat, pies & quiches, clothing, fish & game, plants & flowers, eggs, cup cakes, chocolates, jewellery, scarves, crafts, jams and hand crafted cards. Anyone wishing to trade from the market should contact Keith Gray on 01434 652419 or 07966 568612.

Ponteland Embroiderers’ GuildOur next meeting is on Monday February 28 at St Mary’s Church Hall, Thornhill Road, Ponteland from 2pm to 4pm. We have an interesting talk by Helen Winthorpe Kendrick on The road from inspiration to art. Tea and coffee to follow the talk. Everyone welcome. There is a small charge for visitors. Any queries contact Sheila Armstrong on (0191) 2667873.

What’s on...


Fixed penalties of £75 will be handed out to owners who flout any of four new orders being brought in by Northumberland County Council.

The fast-track punishment would be offered in place of expensive and time-consuming prosecutions which can lead to a maximum £1,000 fine but rarely do.

A report from Northumberland’s head of public protection, Vickie Barrington, puts forward four new dog control orders to replace all previous canine legislation:

1. Failing to remove dog faeces;

2. Not keeping a dog on a lead in certain areas;

3. Not putting a dog on a lead when directed to do so;

4. Permitting a dog to enter land from which dogs are excluded.

The 2005 Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act has given local authorities the power to impose new regulations and Northumberland, which is pursuing a zero tolerance policy to dog fouling, is preparing for a clean sweep.

The report says: “Currently there are a number of local byelaws that are complicated and in need of replacing. Introducing these new orders will simplify the process and make the law associated with dog control more clear to the general public.

“Those committing an offence can (currently) be fined up to £1,000. However, it is proposed to offer a fixed penalty notice of £75 as an alternative to prosecution, which would discharge liability for the offence.”

The orders would be policed by specially-trained council officers and there would

be a publicity campaign immediately after introduction of the orders.

A report to the council’s Executive meeting in January said that 85% of more than 3,000 people asked in a survey held last summer supported order one, and 71% agreed with order three.

Opinion is more divided on orders two and four, the latter of which may principally relate to cemeteries and busy roads. Sixty-five percent of those surveyed were reported to be in favour of fixed penalty notices.

The new rules are expected to be in place across Northumberland by the spring.

Do you agree with the new spot fines? Write to [email protected] or Editor, Pont News & Views, 5 East Boldon Road, Cleadon Village, SR6 7SH.

Irresponsible dog owners put on the spot with new finesDog owners are being warned about new on-the-spot fines for offences involving dogs set to be introduced in Ponteland.

PONTELAND ROTARY CLUB RECOGNISES COMMUNITY SERvICE

Rotary Club President Raymond Tipping presented Paul Harris Fellowship awards to Mrs Bodil (Bo) Boanas and Mrs Marie Brydone in recognition of service to the Community.

‘Bo’ launched The Magic Trust in 1995, a registered charity operating from Ogle Castle near Ponteland. It provides the experience of carriage driving for disabled people, aiming to help people with very severe disabilities, such as muscular dystrophy, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease and spinal injuries who could not otherwise benefit from this enjoyable outdoor activity.

Her team of helpers includes several doctors and nurses as well as other volunteers including qualified carriage drivers.

Marie is the wife of a Rotarian of long standing and has been a member of Inner Wheel for many years. She was involved with Ponteland Stroke Club, a voluntary organisation, for 29 years until its closure in 2008 and was the club organiser and principal fundraiser from 1983 until 2008. She organised the weekly running of the club, including outings and transport for its members.

The Paul Harris Fellowship was established by Rotary International in 1957 and is awarded in recognition for service to the community or to the club. Each Paul Harris Fellow receives a commemorative certificate and a pin.


According to the Land Registry, the average house value in Western Way has increased to £1.14m, moving it into the exclusive list of 228 streets with average house values topping the million pound mark.

The only other £1m+ address in the region is Graham Park Road, just off the Great North Road in Gosforth, Newcastle, with house prices averaging £1.23m.

Both are nowhere near the national top 20, topped by Parkside in Merton – a short walk from Wimbledon’s All England Tennis Club in London’s SW19 – which boasts an average house price of £5.06m.

The figures were revealed by Lloyds Banking Group, which has listed the most exclusive addresses based on Land Registry data for the period 2006-2010.

The Gosforth NE3 postcode dominates the North-East table, with eight of the top 20 addresses by value in the list. Oakfield Road has an average value of £862,000, and also featured are Grove Park Square, Moor Crescent and Osbaldeston Gardens.

Darras Hall also features heavily, with five entries in the list. But its top street from last year’s figures, Darras Road at number two, has dropped to number five at £793,000, down from £830,750.

Runnymede Road, regional table-topper from 2004-2008, is close behind at £739,000, Edge Hill is 17th at £590,000, and 20th is Eastern Way with a £579,000 average.

But the bottom street of the country’s top 20, Trevor Place in Westminster, is still more than double the North East’s most expensive, at £2.67m.

Nitesh Patel, housing economist at Lloyds TSB, said: “The survey shows that the most expensive streets continue to be tightly clustered in relatively small areas.

“Unsurprisingly, the most expensive residential streets in England and Wales are in London. The prime, central London location continues to attract affluent celebrities and ultra wealthy foreign businessmen, helping to drive up house prices.”

Western Way named in ‘millionaire’s row’ listA Darras Hall street has been named in a ‘millionaire’s row’ list of the most expensive addresses in England and Wales.

AIRPORT HIT BY POWER FAILURENewcastle Airport was forced to use back-up generators after a power failure which left more than 7,000 properties without electricity.

Power company CE Electric said it was investigating the incident, which happened at about 5am on Thursday, January 13.

Affected postcodes were NE3, NE5, NE13 and NE20 with the largest number of properties hit around the Darras Hall and Ponteland areas. Newcastle Airport said there had been no impact on passenger services, although Tyne and Wear Metro services to the airport were suspended for a time.

CE Electric said it had managed to reconnect 4,000 properties and expected power to be restored to remaining homes and businesses later on Thursday. A spokesman described the incident as a “high voltage fault.”

POLICE HUNT CAR vANDALSVandals who poured corrosive liquid over two cars in Ponteland are being sought.

The substance damaged paintwork on a VW Bora and Citroen Xsara parked in Ladywell Way between the evening of Tuesday January 11 and morning of Wednesday January 12.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0345 604 3043 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Happy & Inspiring pre-school childcare for 2 to 5 year olds

Popular out of school club for 4 to 11 year oldswith walk over service to both

Ponteland and Darras Hall First Schools.Open 8am - 6pm Monday to Friday.

New school holiday club starting February 2011.

Limited places available. Government funding towards fees.

To arrange a visit or for more informationplease call Emma on 01661 821 414.


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For more information please call 0191 278 8699 or visit www.yhn.org.ukDiscount available for people aged 85 and over.

If you feel unsafe or unwell, our mobile wardens will respond any time of the day, every day of the year, for just £6.57 per week.

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BD11_1382 CCAS Telecare service advert_Ponteland Directory_A4 - full bleed.indd 1 14/01/2011 15:41

There have been a total of 11 crimes reported in the Ponteland area in the period from December 12 to January 12.They break down as follows:

• three thefts (two shoplifting/one theft from motor vehicle) • one burglary (dwelling)• two burglaries (non dwelling)• two damage to motor vehicle• one assault• one criminal damage• one theft of motor vehicle.

There have been three arrests in relation to these crimes and enquiries are ongoing which may lead to further arrests.

The next Police surgery will be at the Co-op on the Broadway at 10am on Saturday February 19.

The next Local Multi-Agency Problem Solving (LMAPS) meeting is on Tuesday February 22 at 9.30am in the East Centre, Prudhoe.


By PC Paul Henery, Ponteland Community Beat Manager

Quiet Christmas on the crime front

Authors hold events at Ponteland LibraryTwo North East authors are holding events at Ponteland Library over the next six weeks.

Crime writer Ann Cleeves, of Whitley Bay, will be talking about her work on Wednesday February 16 at 7.30pm. Ann won the Duncan Lawrie Gold Dagger (the biggest prize for crime writing in the world) in 2006 for Raven Black, the first in her Shetland Quartet - the last novel in the quartet was published last year. She is also well known for her crime novels featuring Inspector Vera Stanhope, which are shortly to feature in an ITV series called ‘Vera’.

The latest Vera Stanhope novel ‘Silent Voices’ is set in Tynedale and will be published in the spring. Janet Macleod Trotter, of Morpeth, is well-known for her historical novels but has now written a novel ‘The Vanishing of Ruth’ which is a mystery based on her own overland trip to India back in 1976.

She is at the library on Wed March 16 at 7.30pm. You can find out more about the authors on their websites at www.anncleeves.com and www.janetmacleodtrotter.com Tickets cost £4 for both events and booking is essential. Secure yours by calling (01661) 823594.

Great British fish and chip supper - Friday May 20

Want to do something different? Want to raise money where you live or work? Want to eat fish and chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and chip supper on Friday May 20 whilst raising awareness of spinal cord injury and supporting the Spinal Injuries Association’s information and support services. You can hold a fish and chip supper in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community centre.

SIA will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes, invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting seven friends and asking them to donate an additional £5 means you will raise at least £35 from your supper but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even more money for SIA.

Last year we had over 100 suppers taking part in England and Wales and we raised £6,000. In 2011 we want to double that figure and ensure we can provide more support to spinal cord injured people.

The money raised from the suppers will help the Spinal Injuries Association offer support to individuals who become paralysed and their families, from the moment a spinal injury occurs, and for the rest of their lives by providing services and publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to lead independent lives.

Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone.

For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright on 0845 678 6633 ext-229 or email [email protected] or visit www.spinal.co.uk

There they go again! Alan Redman and Andrew Pybus won the wheelbarrow race, starting from the Blackbird Inn, for the fifth year running. Where is the competition? There were only five wheelbarrows racing this year and there was no snow to put off possible entrants. Last year there was six inches of snow overnight which made for a tricky race.

And to emphasise the superiority of the winners’ families, their sons, Oscar Redman, 14, and Dan Pybus, 13, won the Junior race.

The Lord of Ponteland for the day, Philip Jackson, who looks superb in the role, clanged his bell at noon to start the gruelling race and about ten minutes later the winners were coming down Thornhill Road at speed to be greeted by the biggest crowd for years.

Lots of news and greetings were exchanged, as everyone seemed glad of an excuse to come out and mingle and cheer on the competitors.

The Blackbird Inn hired some Scottish drummers and a piper to amuse the crowd, who could also refresh themselves with mulled wine and a variety of food.

Alan, 40, and Andy, 45, raced home in 7 min 25 sec, followed by Andy Naylor, 53 & his son-in-law Tom Cochrane, 27, and Harry & Brian Walker. The Ladies prize went to Sarah Nixon & Nicola Stanten and Becky Tinnion & Lizzy Kolenda took the Girls prize.

The Ponteland 41 Club and the Rugby club, who organised the event, raised £440 for charity.


Photos by Keith Robertson

Barrow boys make it five in a rowBy Muriel Sobo

ATTEMPTED BREAK-IN AT PONTELAND GOLF CLUBPolice are appealing for information after an attempted break-in at Ponteland Golf Club.

Between 11.30pm on Monday January 10 and 6.30am on Tuesday January 11, thieves tried to break into the golf club building in Main Street, Ponteland. They were unable to get inside the building and made off unseen.

Anyone who was in Ponteland overnight and who saw anything suspicious in the area, or who may have any information into the incident, is asked to contact police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.


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Police issue bogus officials warning to householders

Northumbria Police is urging householders to be on the alert after numerous reports of bogus officials across the force area.

Callers claiming to be ‘from the Water Board’ are targeting householders asking to come into their homes.

Police repeated advice not to let anyone into your home unless they can prove they are acting in an official capacity and urged householders to use Northumbrian Water’s password scheme.

Detective Chief Inspector Tim Walker said: “We believe bogus callers are taking advantage of the recent bad weather by asking to check people’s water supplies as a way of conning their way into homes.

“I must repeat our advice - never allow anyone into your home unless you are happy they are who they claim to be. And don’t forget that just because a caller says they’re from your water or gas company, the council, or even the police, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are.

“I would particularly appeal to elderly people not to think it is impolite to ask callers for identification and arrange an appointment, possibly when a neighbour or family member can be present.

“If workmen arrive and say your property needs repairing, our advice is to tell them you already have someone who does your work. And only use reputable workmen recommended by family and friends, or those who have worked satisfactorily for you before.

“Genuine officials or tradesman will not mind showing you identification and this could help you avoid needless heartache. I would also ask people to be good neighbours and watch out for people targeting homes in your street.”

Password scheme

Northumbrian Water has a password scheme so customers can be sure officials are genuine.

Cara Hall, from Northumbrian Water, explained: “Northumbrian Water will not need access into customers’ homes to check for frozen pipes unless a customer has contacted us and requested an appointment for us to check their pipes and water supply.

“We ask people to please listen to the advice of the police and to be extra vigilant before letting anyone into their home. Our customers can register a password for extra peace of mind by ringing 0845 717 1100 or logging onto www.nwl.co.uk – anyone from Northumbrian Water who needs access into a property will know this word.”

STOLEN NUMBER PLATES USED FOR FUEL THEFTNumber plates stolen from a car in Ponteland were used on another vehicle to steal diesel.

Between 12.05pm and 12.45pm on Monday January 10 thieves stole the plates from a Nissan Almera parked in the Brooklands area.

Then at 1.30pm a report came in that a silver BMW with the same plates had made off from the Shell filling station in Westerhope, Newcastle, without paying for £75 of diesel.

The driver was of Asian appearance, in a black hat. Witnesses should call 03456 043043 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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CHRISTMAS CONCERT RAISES £1,500 FOR SIR BOBBY’S CHARITYSt Mary’s Singers Victorian Christmas Concert was a sell out and despite appalling weather conditions we sang to a full house.

As a result of the support we received from the community we have been able to send a cheque for £1,500 to the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Our next concert is on Saturday April 16, when we will sing Stainer’s Crucifixion and a Mass by Gounod. We hope you will join us again.


Full payment is required at the time of booking, cheques are to be made payable to ‘Matfen Hall LLP’. Please note that places are limited, we advise early bookings to avoid disappointment.

Meet with friends for morning tea or coffee and danishes, then enjoy a presentation by a guest speaker followedby a glass of wine with canapés and a delicious two course lunch at £27.50 per person.

Wednesday 16th February Discussing which ingredients are in season in February and Jan will make a tempting selectionFull on Flavours with Jan Hodgson from Season to Taste of taster dishes for you to sample.

Wednesday 23rd March Jane Williams from Davenport’s Chocolates based in North Shields, talks about the perfectEspecially for Chocolate Lovers ! ‘Choccy-choices’ in time for Easter !

Wednesday 13th April From the Beehive Bakery, Masterchef and ‘This Morning’, Stacie asks all guests to bring alongCreative Cooking - with Stacie Stewart an ingredient and she will prepare a number of dishes before your eyes !

Wednesday 18th MaySpring/Summer Fashion show provided by Panache of PontelandFashion Show - “Sneak peak at 2011 styles”

Wednesday 22nd June Pumphrey’s Coffee Maestro, Stuart Lee Archer is passionate about great coffee.“Everything about coffee” with Stuart Lee Archer Learn all about coffee selection, tastes and more with the ‘Coffee Legend’ !

To reserve your seat, please contact Stacy Belshaw, Tel: 01661 855 729

Matfen Hall, Matfen, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 0RH. Hotel: 01661 886 500 Email: [email protected] www.matfenhall.com

Ladies Luncheon Dates.LUNCH LADIES ?

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