Take a look at articles providing news from across the area.
If you’d like to submit something for inclusion in the website to share with the community and visitors please send them via our contact page or to info@visitconsett.co.uk
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Take a look at articles providing news from across the area.
If you’d like to submit something for inclusion in the website to share with the community and visitors please send them via our contact page or to info@visitconsett.co.uk
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. Photo of latest donations showing Norman Sellar treasurer of Consett Rotary collecting their grant towards their ‘Kids out’ programme.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. Photo of latest donations showing Durham County Councillor Stephen Robinson presenting two cheques for £500 to Steve Watson representing C-L-S Washington and Derwentside District FA and The Shotley Bridge & Blackhill Charitable Trust (for their Christmas event).
‘Best Product Business of the Year’ – Crooked Oak Crafts At the end of October 2023 Steph Winter from Crooked Oak Crafts travelled to an award ceremony at Manchester and her business won Best Product Business of the Year. There was 14 other finalists from around the country, and she “still can believe that she won”.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. Photo of latest donations of £500 to David Arbon on behalf of Blackhill and Shotley Bridge Methodist.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. Photo of latest donations of £500 to White le Head Bowls and Kennedy Care Centre.
Can You Spare 2 Hours Or More Of Your Time? The Volunteering and Befriending Service within Homegroup provide customers across County Durham with opportunities to volunteer within their community, as well as have full access to our services such as our open access groups. Our Befriending service is in high demand, and we are looking to recruit volunteer befrienders to help with the demand. So, if you have some time to give a little back to the Community and help us with this valuable service, please get in touch by emailing us: volunteersdurham@homegroup.org.uk
‘Town of Culture’ – Photographic Project Exhibition As we near the end of our latest Photographic Project – ‘Town of Culture’, we are currently preparing the main exhibition at Willow Burn Hospice, Lanchester. The exhibition will take place between the 7th August and the 7th September.
Exciting News at Soami’s Trio 📣 Exciting News! 🎉 We had the absolute privilege of serving the renowned BBC chef, Si King of Hairy Bikers fame, right here at our restaurant! 🍽️✨ It was an incredible honor to have such a culinary legend dine with us, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to share this unforgettable experience with all of you! 🎩👨🍳🍲😋 We strive to provide an exceptional dining experience for all our guests, and having Si King choose our restaurant is a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence. 🌟 We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for gracing us with his presence, and we hope he enjoyed every moment of his time here. 🙏 Join us on this gastronomic journey and discover why our restaurant is a favorite among food connoisseurs! 🍽️✨ Thank you for your continued support, and we can’t wait to welcome you all to our restaurant very soon! 🥂🍴
Consett Rugby Club Centenary 2023-24 Search on YouTube using ‘Consett RFC‘ you can find videos of members talking about various decades of Consett Rugby Club. Here is Roy Tyerman talking about Consett Rugby in the 1950’s as part of the Clubs Centenary celebrations.
Update re the flooding problem at the Pemberton Road Crossing on the Heritage trail Durham County Council have agreed to do works that should resolve the flooding problem at the Pemberton Road crossing. Works are due to start on Monday 26th June 2023. There is likely to be some disruption whilst the work is being carried out and then the track will need to be resurfaced again. There is no exact timescale for the the length of the works programme as it will depend on what they find but is estimated at around two weeks.
Alan Swinburne Building Self Belief Podcast hcswrichard Jun 21 Alan Swinburne – Consett Heritage Podcast Alan worked at the Steelworks for 17 years in the Technical Research Department. Over the last 20 years he has researched the History of the Steelworks given several talks about his memories of his life at the Works. He also has an extensive collection of photographs and memorabilia from the steelworks. Many of the talks have been to the members of the community to tell them about the heritage of the area. This project is a perfect opportunity for Alan to share his memories and ensure the history of the steelworks lives on. https://www.buildingselfbelief.org/insights/alan-swinburne-consett-heritage-podcast?fbclid=IwAR1vgsYAnXG8DAtk_PrHDhRT02sCWVzH3Wa28XAVGAV6E4VvcS-2mFlO7qw Well worth a listen Building Self Belief are going to do a number of podcasts so if you would like to be interviewed please get in touch https://www.buildingselfbelief.org/what-we-do/projects/consett-iron-company-community-heritage-project Working alongside young people and the wider community, we shall ensure that the institution that literally built Consett has its heritage recognised by the people who lived and worked there. Engaging new generations of local people with no memory of the former steelworks along the way. With grateful thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Players of the National Lottery. […]
Map Donation Alison and Mike Redshaw have kindly donated a map to the History of Consett Steelworks Group which will be scanned and shared for all to enjoy together with copies to be made for other local Heritage groups and for anyone who would like a copy Alison comments My dad, Les Gunn, who worked at the ‘company’ for 41 years was the one who bought it. Its a large map so the next stage is now to plan and do the scanning The map will also feature in future events and displays Thank you to Alison and Mike we a proud to now be custodians of this lovely local bit of history See the post here More about our Mapping Project https://historyofconsettsteelworks.wordpress.com/steelworks-mapping-project/
The Longest Try is coming to Consett on the 27th July 2023! Will Carling leads the way in Charity relay run around Great Britain.
Sunday 30th April Spartan Performance hosted the British Weightlifting (BWL) Northern Schools Weightlifting Championship. It was fantastic to see so many children from around the North of England taking part in physical activity and enjoying being part of the day, as well as lifting impressively too. Participants ranged between 6 and 16 years old and embodied the ethos of Spartan, where training is open to all. A special shout out to Consett’s own Baker family Arthur, Chris, Terry and Rhys who helped ensure the day was a success. The event drew a big crowd and will be returning in September 2023. All local schools and gyms are encouraged to take part then and can reach out to Spartan Performance owner for help in doing so.
Congratulations to Soami’s Trio for winning Fusion Restaurant of the Year award 2022-2023. If you haven’t been to Soami’s then there is no better time than now. See their Visit Consett listing here.
Hazel Graham (L) and Gail Philipson (R) photographed in front of the Miners Banner with Project Genesis Trust cheque for £500. Their application said “We are the custodian of the Miners Banner. This requires extensive repairs so it may be paraded and displayed again. It requires a new border and fringe. The water marks need to be removed and the picture improved. We would like schools and community groups to visit the banner to understand the historical significance and it to be paraded again at the Durham Miners Gala.”
The Red Dust Company Choir is the recipient of the 100th small grant that Project Genesis Trust has delivered. £50,000 has been paid direct to community groups across Derwentside with the minimum of admin. The choir are looking for a local business to sponsor them and the contact is Clare Suddes reddustcompany@gmail.com Below is their application: “Red Dust Company Choir was established in 2019. We were meeting monthly at Citizens House, until the pandemic when we suspended the sessions from February 2020. Before that time, they were attended by up to 40 members, each month paying £5 to attend, which covered the choir leader fees and room hire. We have 143 people registered who’ve attended sessions with us. We’ve members with dementia, Parkinson’s and Autism along with many who are older, living on their own and find comfort in coming together and singing, which impacts on their wellbeing. We restarted sessions in March 2022 and have struggled to attract the number of attendees as we did previously for many reasons. Some of our older members have lost their confidence, following a long time isolating. We plan to relaunch the choir and reengage with previous members and encouraging new people to attend, as we firmly believe that everyone […]
The Eden Miners centre application said: “We are opening a Warm Hub and would like to purchase some new tables that can be easily stored and collapsed. Most of our volunteers are on the wrong side of 50 and the tables we have were donated and old with heavy metal legs which need to be stacked on top of each other. This also means that they take up a lot of floor space. That Bread and Butter Thing, which has been running for some months now and is appreciated by local people, also use the tables. We are opening the hub on the 17th November and offering the use of computers, board games, information as well as free tea and coffee with an option to buy soup and a roll at a very low price. This means that we have a lot of tables shifting to undertake and I have seen some tables which are on a trolley and easily moved around and manipulated.”
Attached photo with Police for Moorside and the Grove Community Engagement led by PCSO Debra Waller. Her application said: “The Grove and Moorside community is an economically deprived ward and historically receives least funding. Police and partners also generally struggle with engagement with local residents and families. Police are required to hold PACT meetings regularly in our Beat areas and to try and improve on interactions and community spirit the funding is requested to try and promote positive engagements as well as the introduction of a warm hub. The first event is to be held December in St Johns Hall, Moorside and the aim is to attract as many residents as possible from the area from all areas of the spectrum to mix and engage. There will be also partner agencies Police/Fire/Council Wardens/Local Youth Worker all on hand to offer advice and signpost as well as a warm buffet and an appearance from Santa to encourage families and children. This event will be replicated throughout the year and funding used in the same way. Each time with different support agencies.”
Project Genesis has confirmed that The Heritage Trail footpath off Pemberton Road has now been re-opened…just in time for the Christmas holidays!
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. Photo of latest donation of £500 to Consett Park Bowling Club. This is the 98th such grant that PGT has made to support local community groups. .
Project Genesis has taken the step to do temporary works to get the trail reopened at Pemberton Road for Christmas. They are still waiting for Durham County Council / Northumbrian Water to decide how to resolve the problem in the long term but ACE are currently undergoing temporary works which are expected to be complete by this weekend (17th December).
Have you seen what fun Christmas parties are planned in your area over the Christmas school holidays? There will be discos, inflatables, crafts and other fun activities and Santa will be making an appearance! There will also be a free packed lunch included. Have a look at their Facebook page for more information on parties organised by Durham County Council Fun & Food. Booking is essential. Please click here below for booking details:
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photo is of a cheque for £500 going to Jordan Little of Medomsley Cricket Club to assist their new women’s and girls’ cricket section. Any person who wishes to join the section may contact Jordan on 07588402207 or jordan.bell.1996@gmail.com. .
Amethyst Homes, Dysart Developments and Absolute Civil Engineering have gathered a team of 6 enthusiastic, mixed ability cyclists from Amethyst Homes, Dysart Developments and Absolute Civil Engineering who are going to attempt the Coast & Castles bike ride from Tynemouth to Edinburgh (180 miles) over 3 days in order to raise much needed funds for NEH North East Homeless and Willow Burn Hospice. The big ride starts today (Saturday 3rd September) and the team are attempting to ride 180 miles Coast and Castles route from Tynemouth to Edinburgh this Saturday, Sunday and Monday to raise money for our 2 fabulous nominated charities They would be very grateful for any support you can give us to achieve the goal of raising £2000 for each of these amazing charities and would also like to take the opportunity to thank those of you who have already made such generous donations. Please find the link to their team Just Giving Page where you can select one or both charities – the top link is Willow Burn and below is North East Homeless. They are trying to raise equal amounts for both charities and would really appreciate your assistance with this. https://www.justgiving.com/team/Amethyst-ACE-Dysart
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photo is of a cheque for £500 going to Virginia, director of the CBS see https://cbsmusicalandstage.wixsite.com/cbsmusicalandstage. .
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photo is of a cheque for £500 going to Consett Rotary Club and Kids Out allowing many primary children to visit Beamish Museum. .
Sister Act’was performed by the CBS (see https://cbsmusicalandstage.wixsite.com/cbsmusicalandstage) at the Project Genesis Funded QE2 Jubilee event on 3/6/22 at Consett Rugby Club then had a week performing very successfully at Consett Empire. Take a look at some of the photos from the event.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photo is of Shelley accepting chq from PGT in support of Rose and Robin.
Upcoming talks from Leadgate Community History Club Monday 20th June Talk on Consett in Focus Photography Project – Eden Miners Centre Leadgate 7pm start – Leadgate Community History Club present – – Talk by George, Steve and Chris plus a chance to see some of the extensive collection of photographs they have taken. We are a group of photographers documenting the impact of Coronavirus on Consett and its communities. We intend to produce a collection of photographs which we will display on-line and in physical exhibitions around the area when appropriate more on this website link https://consettinfocus.weebly.com/#. Donations to cover costs of hire of the hall and to make a donation to the project would be welcome but is optional. Friday 8th July Eden Miners Centre Watts Stelling on British Coins 1760-2022 Leadgate History Society is putting on a series of monthly talks starting this month and running throughout the rest of this year generally on 2nd or 1st Friday of each month at 6.30 pm. Monday 18th July A talk and demonstrations of objects and toys from 1930’s. 1940’s and 1950’s Eden Miners Centre – 7pm. Leadgate Community History Club are delighted to host Andrew Clark for a talk and demonstrations of […]
Pictures of Spartan Performance Junior Strongman event at the QE2 Jubilee Funday 3/6/22 at Consett Rugby Club
Thanks to funding from DVAAP (and additional support from Project Genesis) professional theatre company Mad Alice, based in Blackhill, will be touring their lovely, fun, quirky, poignant and hearwarming theatre show ROSE and ROBIN this summer 2022. Join Rose and Robin in their story from childhood to old age, their days of dances and dreams, music and memories. Playful and serious, sad and happy, this is a show that celebrates life in all its richness; a story of love and loss, for old and young. The performance is followed by music and refreshments providing a great opportunity to enjoy a chat and a dance too! July Dates: Friday 8th July 7pm followed by refreshments and music – Dipton Jubilee Community Centre: £5 Adult £3 Child/OAP Tickets: 01207 570 366 / bjbell@btinternet.com Saturday 9th July 2pm followed by refreshments and live music with Dean Marty – Medomsley Methodist Hall: £5 Adult / £2 Child. Tickets: 01207 562 633 Saturday 9th July 7pm followed by refreshments & live music from Moorside Elvis: St John’s Church Hall Moorside: £5 Adult £3 Child/OAP Tickets: 07722241407 / 07483284206 Sunday 10th July 2pm followed by refreshments and live music with Dean Marty – Delves Lane Village Hall: £5 Adult £3 […]
Pupils from Consett Junior School performing a play conceived, written and performed by them with the great help of Shelley Parker of Mad Alice Theatre Company. The play featured the Queen and a Consett girls rugby team and was performed twice to great acclaim at the QE2 Jubilee Funday at Consett Rugby Club Friday 3/6/22.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photo is for the presentation of cheque to Barry Cook, towards Consett Rugby Club’s centenary project 2023-24 and will be used to record, via videography, the testimonies of stalwarts of CRFC and distribute via a Centenary Website.
Consett Rugby Club hosted an amazing Platinum Jubilee Celebration Funday on Friday 3rd June. More than 3,000 people attended and there were over 20 community groups involved. The weather was perfect and everyone enjoyed a fabulous afternoon of activity. There was a lot of hard work that went into the organising of the event and a massive thank you in conveyed from John O’Connor on behalf of the Club and Project Genesis.
It was a delight to see the interest and turnout for the first Roman Explore event at Ebchester. I hope all enjoyed the day Thanks to Eric for his guided tour of St Ebba’s and we will exploring further the Roman connections with the church. Eric has kindly shared a “bonus” which is a video Virtual Tour. VR Tour by Tim Lowrey (timlowrey360.com) Also thanks to Bill (William) Trow for leading the river walk. Finally thank you to the people who supported with displays. Tony Vindomora Solutions Rodney/Darin Friends of Longovicium County Durham Forum for History and Heritage The plan is now to hold an event at the end of July which will look at forming a Friends of Vindomora so that we can use this to begin to gain permissions and seek funding for future activities. We would welcome a member/s of the village to consider being part of the Friends project team to oversee the group please get in touch if you would be willing to be part of this. We will need a “Chair” and a finance person specifically at least. We are also going to look to hold a Finds Day/Ebchester Antiques Roadshow event in the Autumn. Also we […]
CLUB HUB AWARDS 2022 – FINALISTS ANNOUNCED Local business owner Alison Fraser who runs Tiny Toes Bumps and Babies CIC (Tiaki Pregnancy and Baby Centre www.facebook.com/tiakipregnancyandbaby) in Consett is a finalist for the Not for Profit Business of the year category of the Club Hub Awards 2022. The Club Hub award finalists were announced on 1 March. Awards were offered across 14 categories. 71 finalists have been shortlisted (5 per category) from over 350 applications, representing 140 businesses (Club Hub members). The standard of applications was very high and represented a diverse range of kids activities, clubs and related businesses. The Club Hub Awards are the only national awards for activity providers with entry by application form only, no voting. The awards are independently judged by a panel of expert judges, who are children’s activity professionals or specialists in their field. They shortlisted the finalists and will select the winners for each of the individual award categories. The judges will select winners based on their commitment to excellence, innovation and growth of their business, demonstrated through their business performance, achievements, brand values and passion for what they do. Award winners will be announced at the Club Hub Event 2022, Saturday 14 May, […]
Newcastle Falcons players helped make a brave boy’s dream come true this week when six-year-old Seth Murray Heighway was the guest of honour at training. Seth, from Consett RFC Minis, is due in hospital on Friday after being diagnosed with a brain tumour just under a month ago, and as he and his family prepare for a difficult course of treatment they were invited to Kingston Park to spend the afternoon with the team. This visit to Falcons was organised by PGT trustee Dean Richards. Seth had a biopsy three weeks ago which identified a pilocytic astrocytoma tumour in a difficult-to-reach part of his brain, with a complicated treatment process set to begin on Friday with the installation of a Hickman line in his chest ahead of weekly chemotherapy which will last for a full year. Seth was joined at Kingston Park by mam Leanne and 13-year-old brother Matthew Cleaver, with the family getting rare access to watch training before meeting the players, taking part in some on-field games with the team, dining with the squad and being presented with a signed shirt and ‘Flash the Falcon’ cuddly toy. Leanne said: “Seth has been incredibly brave so far, and […]
Lots to tell you about in terms of websites and events. Leadgate Community History Club is exploring holding in person talks and also a possible of couple of on line talks more details to follow. Take a look at the History Club website. CDHI have a new website https://consettheritage.co.uk/ Also their Spring Exhibition is 5th-7th May at Consett Methodist Church Friends of Longovicium have new website Friends of Longovicium – Lanchester Roman Fort History of Consett Steelworks website History of Consett Steelworks – Connecting the community with the past, sharing memories for the future Look out for details being announced shortly of a Consett Stories project by Digital Voice once details confirmed will share There is a Roman Explore Day in Ebchester on Sat 14th May 2022
Residents in County Durham can now hire an electric vehicle for the day, as part of a new car club service. Car club scheme The car club has three fully electric cars available to borrow, which residents can hire for an hour up to a full day. It costs £5 a month to join the scheme and the hire rate is £4 per hour for the first three hours, then £3 for every hour after that, or £30 to hire the car for a day. There is no geographical limit as to who can join the scheme. Volunteer drivers from the club are also available to use the car to take people to hospital appointments. For more details see the Durham County Council website on: https://www.durham.gov.uk/article/27327/Electric-vehicle-car-hire-launches-in-County-Durham
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups. The latest photos is for the presentation of cheque to Delta North. This is the 87th small grant we have made to community groups. Also cheque donation to Bishop Ian Ramsey School in support of their trip to Parliament.
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being presented to some amazing local groups.
An exciting, fun, creative project for young people (8-12 yrs) living in Consett and the surrounding Co. Durham area. Work with professional actors, learn performance skills and devise your own short play to perform outdoors in Blackball Park to friends & family!
Spartan is based on Number One Industrial Estate in Consett in a 10,000 square feet facility with modern ‘state of the art’ fitness equipment and highly trained staff. They have decided this year to launch Spartan Raw, a national level powerlifting competition in our local community. Thus, opening the sport to all residents and fitness enthusiasts. Such events have historically been held further afield and have barriers to enter –federation membership, entry fees and specialist equipment/coaching. Spartan Raw looks to remove those barriers, encourage participation and provide excellent facilities, coaching and equipment for all. John O’Connor, Chairman of Project Genesis Trust, presented Jack Lovett of Spartan with a cheque for £500 and said ” Project Genesis Trust is delighted to support Spartan Raw and the huge crowd and the quality of the competitors shows how Spartan encourages people to have a fitter and healthier lifestyle. I was particularly impressed by Amy Kirton, a paramedic, who explained how Spartan had improved her physical and mental well being and at the time of Covid that is a very special gift.” As Amy Kirton said Spartan is a family that has made her feel welcome and pushed her do do things she never felt were possible. There was an excellent mixture of male and female lifters. Great crowd too. The inaugural Spartan Raw was a huge success and […]
Congratulations to Cafe At Inn On The Park for winning the Cafe of the Year 2021 – County Durham LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award.
Getting married? 💍🥂👰⛪ Why not make your own wedding rings together. Bespoke packages available. Ring styles and metals are discussed prior to the workshop to ensure the correct metal is available. Such a special way to exchange rings. 🔨💍🔨💍🔨Available 2021 workshops🔨💍🔨💍🔨 Pamper nights are sold out for 2021 BUT gift vouchers are available for 2022 if you want to treat that someone special. Pamper nights include ring making, beautiful Shellac nails with prosecco, a perfect gift to look forward to in the new year 💍💅🥂🔨£40pp Ring and bangle workshop gift vouchers are also available for future dates. Kids workshop vouchers are available for £15, bookings in 2022. 💍🔨💝get in touch to book 07548 621978💝🔨💍 Wednesday 1st Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 10am Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Saturday 4th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 3PM Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Tuesday 7th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 6pm Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Wednesday 8th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 6pm Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Sunday 12th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 3pm Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Tuesday 14th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 6PM Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Saturday 18th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 3pm Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp Wednesday 29th Dec RING/BANGLE WORKSHOP 11am Ring £25pp Bangle £35pp If you would like By […]
Pictures of Consett boys visiting Carnegie Museum in Dunfermline to see Roll of Honour of the 9 men who were awarded the Carnegie Hero award and are featured on the Consett Steelworkers Memorial.
Hundreds take part in Consett’s Steel Town 20 walk as event doubles in popularity Around 200 people took part in the 2021 Steel Town 20 in Consett at the weekend! A County Durham town came together at the weekend as the fourth annual Steel Town 20 returned from an enforced break due to the coronavirus crisis. Organised by Consett Hiking Group, the 20 mile walk takes in some of the most beautiful parts of North West Durham. With hiking experiencing something of a boom in popularity during the pandemic, it’s no surprise that around 200 people took part this year. However, the founder of the event and Consett Hiking Group, Keiron Young, hopes to make it even bigger in the future. See the full Chronicle article at https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/consett-steel-town-20-walk-21620678.amp
This Channel 4 programme features a segment on Phileas Fogg when it launched in Consett and and interview with Keith Gill (who was instrumental in the formation of Phileas Fogg). The programme shows the biggest players in Britain’s crisp industry reveal what it takes to out-flavour, out-sell and outwit their rivals in the fierce battle for complete crisp domination. https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-secret-world-of/on-demand/71484-002
The Gala Theatre in Durham are touring a free family theatre show, ‘Billy Shakes: Wonder Boy!’ to Blackhill and Consett park this summer and would really appreciate some help to spread the word to local families. The performances will be on Thursday 12th August at 11am & 2pm. The shows are free to attend (no booking or ticket required) and running time is approx. 1 hour. All shows will be BSL interpreted. Find out more
I am the secretary of the Consett Pool League, and we are hoping to start with our pool league again this September/October, with our AGM being in August. We are looking for new sponsors for our new season to cover costs, such as admin fees, and trophies etc. We would like to offer you the opportunity to sponsor our pool league for the 2021/2022 season. Sponsorship for the season is only £50 (Sponsorship was due to be £75 however we have reduced this due to the pandemic) In return, you will get your logo on our website where the league tables are (https://cwnpl.leaguerepublic.com/index.html), they would appear on our results sheets also as well as a fixture sheet throughout all the pubs in Consett and the surrounding areas. We would also actively promote your business on our Facebook page, and promote your business through our players. Consett Pool League has grown over the years, and before the pandemic it was becoming bigger and bigger. Our current sponsors are proud to be a part of the league and it is one of the most enjoyable leagues in the area. Thankyou for your time, and we hope to hear from you soon. Regards, […]
To the Visit Consett Community It’s come to my attention that the people promoting objection to the Hownsgill Energy from Waste facility being promoted by Project Genesis have been attempting to use the Visit Consett website and social media pages to support their objections. I am therefore making this statement to clarify a few things: The Visit Consett website and social media pages are one of a number of community benefit initiatives and projects which have been funded by and continue to be promoted and paid for by Project Genesis. The website is designed to celebrate and promote Consett and the surrounding area and has had significant success in doing so over the last 18 months. Attempts to damage this will not be tolerated and the administrators have been instructed not to allow it to be used for political or protest reasons. Project Genesis has the objective of benefitting the community and will continue to do so promoting projects which will create sustainability and a robust economy. In the recent past Project Genesis has: Provided funding to establish and run the Visit Consett website Provided funding and delivered the Consett and Genesis Heritage Trail Upgraded sections […]
PROPOSALS for a riverside ‘glamping’ site offering hot tubs and fishing activities for visitors in County Durham have been approved. Last year, a planning application was lodged with Durham County Council to erect six glamping pods in the Shotley Grove area, near Consett. The structures were planned for a parcel of land to the south of Shotley Grove Road, next to the River Derwent. According to a design and access statement from the applicant, the glamping pods would be of “modest, modern design with materials in keeping with the site’s setting”. Read the full article in The Northern Echo …
Consett community comes together to fundraise over £5,000 for four-year-old with cerebral palsy Four-year-old Riley Forster has complex needs including cerebral palsy, being registered blind and having a gastrostomy tube fitted. The Consett community has raised over £5,000 for a family forced to move home to care for a boy who has severe disabilities. Four-year-old Riley Forster moved in with foster carers Krystal, 32, and Kevin Telford, 39, aged just 12 weeks old. For full story please see: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/consett-boy-disabled-fundraising-durham-20373601
NHS County Durham CCG has launched further public conversations in relation to the clinical model for services at Shotley Bridge Community Hospital. This engagement and the opportunities for people to join the conversation will run until the end of March 2021. During this period of engagement the CCG want to talk to people and find out their views on how future services will be delivered by a new clinical model that has been developed by working with partners in the hospital trust. There will also be opportunities to discuss future potential estate solutions. You can see a range of materials on the CCG website which include a video presentation from NHS staff about the context and updated clinical model being discussed. Please help share the information here with as many people as possible so that they can hear the latest developments and contribute to the conversations. Sharing your views You can share your views through the online survey, as part of the 8 public events or by contacting the CCG directly (my.view@nhs.netor by answerphone on 0191 389 8609) where you can share comments directly and request paper copies of the documentation if required. Public events As a result of social […]
A lovely over the garden wall chat with David Lavery on a dry, sunny day for a change. He has done fantastic work with revamping the Leadgate Community History Club website and even using his exercise walks to meet up with locals like Bernard Nixon. The recording, sharing of local community history for people to enjoy now and in the future all done for educational reasons not commercial. The history belongs to all of us and should be free to access where ever you or what ever your circumstances We are just custodians and helping to share it – cant wait to be able to explore holding another Then and Now Exhibition when the current times improve Link for website http://leadgatecommunityhistoryclub.co.uk/Welcome.html Link the Facebook page below https://www.facebook.com/Leadgate-Community-History-Club-1913827755567448
The major rewrite of our Club website http://leadgatecommunityhistoryclub.co.uk is now complete. It has been recoded with imbedded links for faster response time and the external links to Adobe Spark have gone. Major new content has been included, Leadgate Fallen in WW2. We hope you find it easier to navigate and the content educational as to the history of our village.
The Community Arts Team at Derwent Valley Partnership are currently developing a community arts and social history project called ‘Workers Thread’ linked to Consett Empire Theatre. They would be keen to hear from any local drama, theatre, history and/or art based groups who may be interested in getting involved. A full outline of the project is attached for you which provides some background information relating to the project idea, an overview of the project itself and its intended outcomes. This is a really exciting opportunity to bring history and art together to celebrate one of our iconic and most visited town centre buildings. If you, a member of your group/organisation, or someone you know, are interested in participating in the project or wish to find out more, please contact Martin Weston, based in the community arts team, who will be able to assist you: martin.weston@durham.gov.uk This information will feature on the Derwent Valley Life website and DVP Facebook page in due course, but please feel free to share this information via your own networks as appropriate, we hope to generate as much interest/involvement in this local project as we can. Workers Thread-RB-Project Intro Invite
Teddy bear’s picnic has been going for 28 years, originally from an idea by a regular at the Crown & Crossed Swords in Shotley Bridge, to bring festive cheer to older members of the local population. Usually patrons are collected from 3 local care homes, (these are St Mary’s Convent, Shotley Park Care Home and Kaydar in the village of Shotley Bridge) and brought to the Crown & Crossed Swords. Other local residents who may be alone or vulnerable are also contacted and invited to join us. Here they are treated to a full Christmas dinner, dessert, drinks and entertainment. Fundraising takes place throughout the year to raise enough to cover costs, and volunteers to help with serving meals and washing up are always welcome. This year we had to be more creative, but didn’t let it hold us back. There were care packages assembled for staff and residents at the 3 care homes, including home-baked goodies, and sweets, biscuits and mulled wine generously donated by Tesco Consett. The marvellous Anna Reay provided some amazing sing-along songs in car-park and roadside concerts with her amplifier and microphone powered from her car! Where there’s a will, there’s a […]
PRONOUNCED dead following the worst disaster in the history of Consett steelworks, a blast furnace man lay motionless on a slab at the mortuary. He and 11 others had been overcome by deadly carbon monoxide which had seeped out unnoticed into their workstations. Overcome by the poisonous gas, they fell where they stood. Later, their bodies tagged, their families had been informed and were coming to terms with the tragedy. But then Joseph Foreman woke up. Click this link to read the full article on The Northern Echo
Attached are the citations for the 9 men recognised by Carnegie Hero Fund Trust. Click on the image to enlarge it.
2020 sees a number of major anniversaries and commemoration’s for the Consett area and the Consett & District Heritage Initiative (CDHI). On 12th September 2010 the CDHI opened its doors for our first ever exhibition which saw more than 1000 people attending at the Lodge in Blackhill & Consett Park. The date was of a major significance as well being exactly 30 years from the closure of Consett Steel Works. It was for this very reason that our group was initially founded to help commemorate that monumental date. After that event the CDHI was cemented and took up our place in the area as an archive and also to help spread the proud heritage of our area for now and future generations. Read the full article on Consett Magazine using this link.
Please take a few minutes to listen to the amazing insight from Ernie Jeffrey. Ernie talks about Consett through the ages and is an inspirational opportunity to hear from someone who has lived through the various historical Consett eras and talks about the Steelworks furnace disaster in 1950. PDF Transcript of Interview
Please take a look at the link below sent to us from Leadgate Community History Club about the History of Photography. Please get in touch with richardjudd@leadgatecommunityhistoryclub.co.uk if you have any pictures you are willing to share or want scanned. https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/history-photography
*** Information provided by Karbon Homes *** For those of you who might not be aware, Karbon runs a telephone befriending service for over 55’s, Silver Talk. Since the coronavirus pandemic hit the UK 4 months ago the demand for Silver Talk has rocketed and we have tripled the number of service users who receive a weekly social call from one of our volunteers. Many of our existing volunteers were keen to support this growth and take on more calls each week, however to bridge the gap and make sure that new service users were able to benefit from the service as quickly as possible, we turned to Karbon colleagues for help. This worked fabulously and we’re incredibly thankful for the time our colleagues gave up to help, however now that lockdown measures are easing and many of our services are back online a number of our colleague volunteers are having to return to their original roles and aren’t able to support to the level they were before. Unless we’re able to recruit more community volunteers to fill the gaps, we’re afraid that some of our service users, who have grown incredibly attached to the service […]
A new Facebook page has been set up by the family and partners behind the ongoing work to restore this wonderful historical community building and plans are to re-open it for community use in 2021 all things being equal. If you would like to find out more information or to support them then please message or email them at: info@watlingspaces.co.uk You can also find a photo album on the Leadgate Community History Club Facebook page under the photos tabs.
Due to the current situation and the Steel Club not re-opened yet and when they do due to the interest in this event it WILL NOT be possible to hold a “physical event” at this time but we will look to re-arrage for next year Margaret has kindly agreed to look into doing some form of presentation on line we will probably look to use Zoom So that we can confirm there is interest in this short term alternative any one who would be interested in this or being kept up to date on events going forward is asked to EMAIL please use richardjudd@leadgatecommunityhistoryclub.co.uk and put Coal Talk in title Thank you for your understanding Richard
The History of the Consett Steelworks project (supported by the Leadgate Community History Club) are delighted to announce the launch of a website which has now got its first content added We are grateful to Gavin from the Northern Echo for his time and now producing this article which online from now but will in the hard copy paper on Monday next week Link to article https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/18465452.forging-links-past-preserve-history/?fbclid=IwAR0ARlZlznxPZijknrPEapB5zNgGAJQonqHOAGjGXYirEsH1yvSbwBi1cyM The project team are keen to start to collate stories and pictures to add to the website and also for the “Last Day” on line event on Sat 12th Sept 2020 which of course will be the 40th anniversary of the closure of the Steelworks back in 1980 More details on that event will follow in due course https://www.facebook.com/events/598337434100901/ Link for the website please do have a look and share- please bear in mind its a work in progress and will have content added regularly https://historyofconsettsteelworks.com/ Email to make contact with the project group with any stories, pictures or questions is historyofconsettsteelworks@gmail.com If you are on Twitter please follow and re share Tweets for us https://twitter.com/ConsettWorks?lang=en-gb The Facebook group which is already […]
Durham Community Tennis Partnership Head Coach helps frontline practitioners with PPE What do you do to fill your days when you are a furloughed tennis coach, used to being on court every day and evening? The answer for one Co. Durham coach was easy, put your 3D printer to use, when not making tennis racquet parts, why not have a go at making face masks for front line workers in care homes and surgeries who are struggling to get hold of personal protective equipment. Sam Stokoe, who is employed by DCTP and is the Head Coach at Durham Moor, Chilton, Bishop Auckland and Lanchester Tennis Clubs heard of the problems currently being experienced in G.P. surgeries and care homes from his aunt who is a retired nurse practitioner, now back working to help the increased demand on the N.H.S. so he decided to do something about it. Sam set to, to make some masks for a G.P. surgery, word soon spread and he has now made over 750 masks which have been distributed to GP.s and care homes across Durham as well as Newcastle and Sunderland After a Facebook appeal for acetate sheets and plastic ribbon for 3D printers, Sam […]
British Cycling is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mike Hodgson. As organiser of one of British road racing’s most iconic and challenging events – the Tour of the Reservoir – Mike contributed an enormous amount to cycling in Britain over many decades, and his loss will be felt by all within the racing community. Speaking on behalf of the organisation, British Cycling President, Bob Howden OBE, said: “I have lost a close friend, and the world of cycling has lost a tremendous servant. Mike had an indomitable spirit and whilst the Tour of the Reservoir was one of the toughest races on the calendar, he was always looking to do more with the formula, in search of being bigger and better. “As a fellow organiser I had tremendous admiration for Mike’s commitment, which was in spite of his underlying health issues, and I would often reflect as to whether I could ever achieve that level of fortitude should I be in the same position – invariably the answer would be a resounding ‘no’. “I won’t be alone in regretting that this terrible virus prevents me from saying my goodbyes at the funeral of a true friend. I […]
The Rugby season is over. It may have been officially cut short, but it has been a remarkable effort by the players at Consett RFC who contributed week in week out to maintain a 100% record, 22 games 22 victories! There can’t be too many teams across the country who have wrapped up their league championship by the middle of March with a 100% record. Thanks to official Club photographer George Ledger we have pictures of the presentation of the League Championship Shield by Mark Short representing our main sponsor Amethyst Homes. Receiving the trophy is Captain Courageous, Connor Petch, who gives 100% every week and has played all 22 games along with the other 100%’r Dave Adams. It remains to be seen what will happen following the current crisis but, ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’, and I’m sure whatever the RFU decide to do with the leagues the lads will be up for the challenge and all our players will be ‘champing at the bit’ to get back on the field. Finally, you can check out all the accurate 1st team squad statistics https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/consett/teams/28999/statistics revealing the 100% record with an average of 40.4 points per game scored and […]
Consett Cycling Festival to be rescheduled as a late-Summer celebration Organisers have decided to reschedule Consett’s popular cycling festival to protect public wellbeing – but have vowed to make it a vibrant celebration later in the year. The now-annual event attracts international professional cyclists to Derwentside for the gruelling Tour of the Reservoir, together with a community festival that attracted 10,000 visitors last year. This year, the organisers – Consett regeneration body the Project Genesis Trust – had planned the festival for 31 May, with even more free events to be held in the town. But Chair John O’Connor said rescheduling was a necessary and responsible measure – and could even have positive effects. “It’s disappointing, of course, but the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors has to be our number one priority,” he said. “We had more than 10,000 visitors to the festival in 2019, together with 1,000 cyclists, supporters and spectators, and we were confident that the May event would attract even more.” Undaunted, the organisers hope that the cycle event and the community festival will both take place in September. “Looking on the positive side, we’ll have even more time to come up with ideas […]
A community festival that attracted elite international pro cyclists and over 10,000 visitors to Consett last year is going ahead again – and this year, it’s going to be even bigger! Last year’s Consett Cycle Festival was a huge success, boosting the local economy by more than £1m. And now the organisers have announced that the 2020 festival will take place on Sunday the 31st May – and once again it will be completely free for visitors and spectators. Sponsored by Consett regeneration body Project Genesis Trust, last year’s event built on the nationally renowned Tour of the Reservoir by extending the usual course so that competitors started and finished in the town centre. The British Cycling Elite Category race was seen over 10 million viewers on Eurosport and national TV networks. John O’Connor, Project Genesis Trust Chair, said: “We built a whole community festival around the cycling, and it was a massive hit with local people and professional cyclists. “So we’ve decided to make this year’s festival even bigger and better, and we’re already planning a range of events built around the top-class cycling that everyone can enjoy.” The idea for the 2020 festival has already won support from […]
A popular theatre in County Durham is set to receive significant investment to carry out improvement works. Durham County Council will invest over £500,000 to upgrade Consett’s Empire Theatre which will see a number of improvements made to the building. The project will involve refreshing the décor of the theatre’s auditorium, enhancements to the stage and lighting, and improving backstage facilities for visiting acts. There will also be essential repairs made to the roof and cosmetic updates to the café and Box Office areas. Empire Theatre’s upgrade means the 500-capacity venue will close temporarily from Wednesday 1 April and will re-open in early September with an exciting new programme of Autumn shows and events. Cllr Joy Allen, Cabinet member for transformation, culture and tourism, said: “The Empire Theatre is a popular venue and is the heart of Consett for live theatre, the latest blockbusters, cultural events, and as a place to unwind at its café. “These improvements will give the venue a real boost so it can continue as a hub for family-friendly entertainment when it re-opens in the Autumn season.” Tickets for upcoming shows will still be available to purchase in advance during the closure, either online at the […]
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here is a photo of the recent donation to: St Johns Players
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are photos of the recent donations to: Consett & District Photographic Society Red Dust Company Choir Lanchester Table Tennis Club
A group of volunteers are setting up as Land of Oak & Iron Trust. They have already achieved some brilliant work, including a Heritage Orienteering project around Blackhill and Consett Park (all fresher students from Derwentside College, plus pupils from 3 local primary schools working together); bringing Tales of Derwentdale and Men of Iron back into print, and a fantastic mapping project where 30 people are involved in digitising changes to the area over time. Next spring the group will be bringing back to life ‘Thread of Iron’ by Douglas Vernon https://helensteadman.com/2016/11/12/literature-review-4-thread-of-iron-by-douglas-vernon-a-definitive-history-of-shotley/10983141/ This will be in Consett, possibly the library. The timing is of course linked to the 40th year anniversary of the closure of the steelworks. Susan is the main contact for this on our team and can pass on details to you.
Consett Iron Company made Spring steel that nobody else in the world could match – they were famous for their Spring steel – made from the waters of the River Derwent. They exported their steel all over the world! I worked for CIC for 8 years, and was the Shipping Invoice Clerk. I had to copy type Proforma’s, Bills of Lading, Import and Export invoices in the language of the recipient country so I know how far the steel was exported all over the world! Dorman Long from Middlesbrough built Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia using Consett Iron Company steel. The first Polaris submarine was built with CIC steel, and the Empress of Canada ship. It is ironic that I lived my life in all three of these countries: England, Australia and Canada. Nancy Steel
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The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being pr
The Project Genesis Trust works hard to support the local community. Here are a few photos of cheques being pr
'Best Product Business of the Year' - Crooked Oak Crafts At the end of October 2023 Steph Winter from Crooked