Police have received several reports in the last week of a man indecently exposing himself on Derwent Walk between Ebchester and Rowlands Gill.
A man, in his 60s, has been arrested in connection with the incident and has since been released on bail with conditions while enquiries continue.
Officers are aware of comments circulating on social media, but they ask that if you have any information that can assist with the investigation to get in touch via matthew.thompson@durham.police.uk
The North East Chamber of Commerce will host its Partner and Corporate Business Dinner on Wednesday, 23 April, bringing together senior leaders from across the region for an evening of cross-party, cross-regional dialogue.
Taking place at the Radisson Blu, Durham, the event will feature a fireside chat chaired by Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, in conversation with Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor and Kim McGuinness, North East Mayor.
The conversation will explore each Mayor’s perspective on devolution, the role of business in regional development and how collaboration across the North East can support inclusive, sustainable growth.
The discussion will offer a rare opportunity to hear their individual and shared perspectives on devolution and regional development as well as their respective growth plans and the role of business in shaping the North East’s evolving governance landscape.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “Our Growth Plan for North East England is both ambitious and inclusive in what we want to achieve for the people and economy of our region. We have been speaking to hundreds of businesses right across the region this month about what our draft plan contains, so I look forward to joining Chamber members in Durham to continue that conversation.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “I am dedicated to delivering economic growth and increased prosperity across our region through working in partnership with our talented and creative business community. Events such as this provide a great opportunity to discuss the key issues facing the region and a chance to explain how increased devolution will supercharge our ambitions for Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.”
As the leading voice of business across both combined authority areas, the Chamber is uniquely placed to facilitate this important evening. By bringing together political leaders, national stakeholders and senior business figures, the event reflects the Chamber’s role in supporting a more connected and collaborative region.
The evening will also hear from Natasha McDonough, Chamber vice president and Matt Beeton, CEO of Port of Tyne, who are kindly sponsoring the event.
With over 70 senior leaders expected to attend from across the private and public sectors, the dinner provides a valuable platform to engage directly with the political and business voices shaping the future of the North East.
This event forms part of the Chamber’s Senior Leaders’ Series, supported by large business associate sponsor Newcastle College.
This event is by invitation only to Chamber Partner and Corporate members and guests.
The spring sunshine added the perfect seasoning to a weekend full of food and family fun at this year’s Bishop Auckland Food Festival.
Thousands of people flocked to Bishop Auckland town centre for the return of one of the region’s biggest food festivals, for two days of entertainment, cookery demonstrations, workshops and, of course, food.
The streets were lined with over 150 stalls where visitors could try and buy regional food and drink from a range of street food traders and artisan food producers, selling everything from gyros, gyozas and grilled barbecue to churros, crepes, coffee and cocktails.
A star-studded line up of celebrity chefs cooked up a storm with their demonstrations on the kitchen stage, which was hosted by TV presenter and returning festival favourite Chris Bavin.
The chefs serving up inspirational dishes included TV chef Simon Rimmer; social media influencer and baker Jane Dunn of Jane’s Patisserie; MasterChef 2024 champion Brin Pirathapan; TV judge and pastry chef Cherish Finden; master chocolatier Paul A Young; and Italian chef Francesco Mattana.
Bringing an extra flair to the festival atmosphere was a series of walkabout entertainers including Granny Turismo, the Lollipop Ladies, Bell & Bullock, circus performer Stanley Youngman, and Bubble Play.
There was also music in the air with performances from singer and songwriter Steve Pledger, Citizen Songwriters’ Sam Slatcher and Alex Summerson, the North Tyneside Steel Band, and the Rock Choir.
Sarah Glynn, Durham County Council’s strategic manager for culture, said: “What a weekend we’ve had at Bishop Auckland Food Festival.
“It’s been great to welcome our celebrity chefs, who have wowed the crowds with their cookery demonstrations. And lots of our traders had a really successful weekend, which is a brilliant result for businesses.
“It’s also been lovely to see so many people come to Bishop Auckland across the two days, and we’ve had lots of positive feedback from visitors. This is just one festival in our culture and events programme for 2025, and we’re looking forward to bringing more exciting events to County Durham throughout the year.”
For more information about the event, visit www.bishopaucklandfoodfestival.co.uk
Heading to Bishop Auckland Food Festival this weekend? Organisers have announced travel arrangements for getting to the event.
Bishop Auckland Food Festival returns to the town centre on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April, for two days of fun, food and family entertainment.
With over 150 stalls, festivalgoers will be able to see, try and buy produce from a variety of traders, selling everything from street food to sweet treats.
And they’ll be able to enjoy their goods while watching cookery demonstrations from a line-up of renowned celebrity chefs, including TV chef Simon Rimmer; social media influencer and baker Jane Dunn of Jane’s Patisserie; MasterChef 2024 champion Brin Pirathapan; TV judge and pastry chef Cherish Finden; master chocolatier Paul A Young; Italian chef Francesco Mattana; and festival favourite TV presenter Chris Bavin, who returns as cookery theatre host.
Throughout the weekend, there will be lots of other activities including ticketed workshops and a host of family-friendly street entertainment, from musicians to comedy performers.
The festival is expected to attract thousands of people to Bishop Auckland town centre across the two days, so organisers are encouraging visitors to plan their journey in advance.
Bishop Auckland Food Festival will be open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 12 April, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday 13 April.
Visitors are recommended to use the accessible park and ride service, which will be in operation between Bishop Auckland College (DL14 6JZ) and the town centre.
Buses will run from 9.30am on Saturday and Sunday, with the last return bus running at 5.30pm on Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday.
Return tickets cost £2.50 for adults, 50 pence for children aged five to 15 years old, and are free for those under five.
Town centre car parks will be open, but are expected to be busy, and drivers should also be aware of diversions due to road closures for the event.
A full list of road closures and traffic information is available at www.durham.gov.uk/BAFFtravel.
Sarah Glynn, Durham County Council’s strategic manager for culture, said: “We can’t wait to continue our festival and events programme for 2025 with the return of Bishop Auckland Food Festival. From food to celebrity chefs, activities and entertainment, there is so much on offer over the two days, and just in time for the Easter holidays too.
“Bishop Auckland Food Festival always promises to be a popular weekend, attracting thousands of visitors to the town. Therefore, we would encourage everyone who is planning to come along to make sure to plan their journey in advance so that they don’t miss out on the fun.”
For more information about Bishop Auckland Food Festival, visit www.bishopaucklandfoodfestival.co.uk
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen’s new Police, Crime and Justice Plan, setting out ambitious action to make County Durham and Darlington safer, stronger and more resilient to drug and alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour will be implemented from 1 April.
The County Durham and Darlington PCC has considered the views of thousands of residents and businesses across the county in drawing up a new four-year blueprint that promises to get tough on the issues that bring misery to local people’s lives.
Vowing to keep victims of crime front and centre of her safety work, the Commissioner insists her new Plan – which starts today – will deliver a first-class service to victims of crime including faster justice, higher-quality care and support and improved police contact to build their trust and confidence.
It will also deliver robust action where the public want it most and help people to solve the issues that harm their lives and can manifest in offending if left unchallenged.
A Youth Plan is also in development by the Commissioner’s office and will be unveiled at a later stage.
Building on the emphatic success of her first term, the PCC focuses on six overarching themes: Victims, Safer People Safer Places, Safer Neighbourhoods, Safer Countryside, Safer Roads and Delivering a fair, transparent and timely local criminal justice system.
Priorities such as Alcohol and Drugs, Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), Addiction including gambling dependency, Neighbourhood Policing and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) take centre stage with the PCC pledging to work with partners at every opportunity to identify and protect those who are less able to protect themselves.
Her growing national roles will also bring additional strength to her local work to secure improvements and legislative reform that will enhance the journey of victims of crime through the criminal justice system and help bring more offenders to justice.
The Commissioner insists her approach will be dynamic and will draw upon the latest technologies and facilities – aided by the opening of the groundbreaking Durham Investigative Hub.
Joy Allen said: “This Plan has been driven by the people I’m elected to serve. The public’s priorities are my priorities, and I’m determined to deliver what they want.
“I am proud of the officers we’ve put back on our streets and I’m fighting to bring more. Visible and accessible neighbourhood policing is non-negotiable – 25% of residents who responded to the PCCs consultation in Durham and Darlington placed visibility as their top priority and I too believe that every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate.
“But we also need to understand why people turn to crime in the first place so we can eradicate the motives and prevent the ‘revolving door’ of crime. I am working with national leaders to reform the way we prevent and treat alcohol and drug addiction to lessen its impact on our communities and this will ensure Durham remains at the forefront of these changes.
“Road safety will remain a key area of focus, particularly speeding and drug/drink driving. Alongside stronger enforcement and education, I will continue to push for tougher legislation to deny dangerous drivers use of our roads to support the work officers undertake to combat serious and organised crime activities including drugs and county lines.
“There is already fantastic local work underway to improve the experience of victims of crime through the criminal justice system and through my Plan, this will continue. I have made it clear that victims of crime must be recognised, valued and active participants within our justice processes, and over the coming four years I will continue to put victims of crime at the centre of my work and ensure together we listen and learn from their voice.
“I want to see Durham Constabulary recognized as the best in the country at preventing crime and ASB. Through this Plan, I am seeking significant reductions in offending and reoffending, and more offenders brought to justice. The foundations have been laid, and I am confident we will continue to push the boundaries of success ever further in our favor.”
Durham Constabulary is already recognised as a pathfinder in several policing areas and the PCC has relentlessly campaigned for more funding to keep the force on a level playing field with other forces.
The PCC said she would continue to work with national decision makers in her role as Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ (APCC) Joint Finance Lead to press for an overhaul of the current funding formula and to secure additional investment to take account of Durham’s unique socio-economic position and its higher demand pressures.
The Plan has previously been given the nod of approval by the Police and Crime Panel and is available to download here: https://bit.ly/DurhamPCP25-29.Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen’s new Police, Crime and Justice Plan, setting out ambitious action to make County Durham and Darlington safer, stronger and more resilient to drug and alcohol related crime and anti-social behavior will be implemented from 1 April. The County Durham and Darlington PCC has considered the views of thousands of residents and businesses across the county in drawing up a new four-year blueprint that promises to get tough on the issues that bring misery to local people’s lives. Vowing to keep victims of crime front and center of her safety work, the Commissioner insists her new Plan – which starts today – will deliver a first-class service to victims of crime including faster justice, higher-quality care and support and improved police contact to build their trust and confidence. It will also deliver robust action where the public want it most and help people to solve the issues that harm their lives and can manifest in offending if left unchallenged. A Youth Plan is also in development by the Commissioner’s office and will be unveiled at a later stage. Building on the emphatic success of her first term, the PCC focuses on six overarching themes: Victims, Safer People Safer Places, Safer Neighborhoods, Safer Countryside, Safer Roads and Delivering a fair, transparent and timely local criminal justice system. Priorities such as Alcohol and Drugs, Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), Addiction including gambling dependency, Neighborhood Policing and Anti-Social Behavior (ASB) take center stage with the PCC pledging to work with partners at every opportunity to identify and protect those who are less able to protect themselves. Her growing national roles will also bring additional strength to her local work to secure improvements and legislative reform that will enhance the journey of victims of crime through the criminal justice system and help bring more offenders to justice. The Commissioner insists her approach will be dynamic and will draw upon the latest technologies and facilities – aided by the opening of the groundbreaking Durham Investigative Hub. Joy Allen said: “This Plan has been driven by the people I’m elected to serve. The public’s priorities are my priorities, and I’m determined to deliver what they want. “I am proud of the officers we’ve put back on our streets and I’m fighting to bring more. Visible and accessible neighborhood policing is non-negotiable – 25% of residents who responded to the PCCs consultation in Durham and Darlington placed visibility as their top priority and I too believe that every neighborhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. “But we also need to understand why people turn to crime in the first place so we can eradicate the motives and prevent the ‘revolving door’ of crime. I am working with national leaders to reform the way we prevent and treat alcohol and drug addiction to lessen its impact on our communities and this will ensure Durham remains at the forefront of these changes. “Road safety will remain a key area of focus, particularly speeding and drug/drink driving. Alongside stronger enforcement and education, I will continue to push for tougher legislation to deny dangerous drivers use of our roads to support the work officers undertake to combat serious and organized crime activities including drugs and county lines. “There is already fantastic local work underway to improve the experience of victims of crime through the criminal justice system and through my Plan, this will continue. I have made it clear that victims of crime must be recognized, valued and active participants within our justice processes, and over the coming four years I will continue to put victims of crime at the center of my work and ensure together we listen and learn from their voice. “I want to see Durham Constabulary recognized as the best in the country at preventing crime and ASB. Through this Plan, I am seeking significant reductions in offending and reoffending, and more offenders brought to justice. The foundations have been laid, and I am confident we will continue to push the boundaries of success ever further in our favor. “Durham Constabulary is already recognized as a pathfinder in several policing areas and the PCC has relentlessly campaigned for more funding to keep the force on a level playing field with other forces. The PCC said she would continue to work with national decision makers in her role as Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ (APCC) Joint Finance Lead to press for an overhaul of the current funding formula and to secure additional investment to take account of Durham’s unique socio-economic position and its higher demand pressures. The Plan has previously been given the nod of approval by the Police and Crime Panel and is available to download here: https://bit.ly/DurhamPCP25-29.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has praised officers for their relentless commitment to making the county safer as new figures revealed significant reductions in neighbourhood crime and serious violence.
In a snapshot performance update covering October to December 2024, the County Durham and Darlington PCC reported sweeping improvements against the priorities local people have told her are important.
Neighbourhood Crime, which includes robbery, burglary, theft from the person and vehicle crime, fell 22.3% during the final three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023.
Comparisons between April and June 2024 (Q1) and October and December 2024 (Q3), meanwhile, show that the rate of ‘violence against the person’ offences has continued to fall at a rate of -13.1%, while violence with injury offences fell -6.1%.
In other progress the percentage of 999 calls answered within 10 seconds has seen an improving trend since the beginning of 2023/24 and now stands at 86.8%. This follows substantial investment in additional control room staff and advanced technology supported by the Commissioner to improve the quality-of-service people receive when they contact the force for help.
The force has recently invested in a new telephony platform which reduces the waiting time between dialing 999/101 and speaking to a call handler, ensuring the public receive a quicker response for both emergency and non-urgent calls.
Twenty-four new call handlers started training/mentoring in the final three months of last year as part of an ongoing uplift in control room staff.
In other improvements during the quarter, the force introduced a new IT platform automatically updating victims of crime via text or email with information about their case and how to access support. Victims can register on the self-service Durham Portal once a crime has been reported to contact the officer handling their case and to track the progress whenever it is convenient to them, significantly increasing their trust and making them feel more supported.
Responding to the progress report, Joy Allen said: “Our neighbourhood officers are working tirelessly to disrupt crimes that cause misery for our communities. They deserve full credit for these reductions and for the robust proactive work they are undertaking with the community and partners to make County Durham and Darlington safer.
“I am delighted with the ongoing improvements in call-handling. Residents should expect to receive an effective and urgent service when they call for help. This is why I made this area of policing a priority when I was first elected in 2021 and have continued to fund and support investment in advanced IT solutions to deliver the service victims of crime and residents deserve.
“It is imperative we strive to offer the very best for victims of crime and our communities – this means providing an outstanding service from the outset when they first reach out for help.
“Call handling will remain an area of intense scrutiny within my office, and I will continue to work closely with the Chief Constable to build on this success in the future.”
The Q3 performance report shows the force has continued to step up proactive enforcement to support the PCC’s road safety priorities.
More than 8,000 motorists were clocked speeding in Q3, while roads policing officers continued to carry out drink/drug drive checks throughout December as part of the national Operation Limit, undertaking 1,489 voluntary roadside tests which resulted in 14 arrests. Outside of the voluntary checks, there were a total of 130 arrests.
In tackling ASB, more than 4,000 hours of extra hotspot policing patrols were carried out in ‘hotspot’ areas between October and December 2024 as part of the national pilot. These resulted in 43 arrests and a variety of other sanctions including fixed penalty notices and information warnings.
Officers are urging the public to remain vigilant after three suspected parcel fraudsters have been arrested across the region after victims lose almost £20k.
On Friday (March 28), officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) arrested a 23-year-old man in Newcastle believed to be linked to postal fraud after £5,000 cash was intercepted in the mail following police intelligence.
Postal Fraud occurs in a similar way to Courier Fraud, where criminals contact victims and manipulate them into believing they’re police or from their bank.
Then unlike courier fraud where a criminal would attend a victim’s home address to collect cash, in postal fraud the victim is persuaded to withdraw cash from their bank account, package it up and send it to a specified address.
The latest police activity comes after further arrests on March 13 in the Durham area, where two men, 27 and 28, were also arrested on suspicion of fraud offences. During the arrests £25,000 in cash was seized and £13,000 in assets frozen while the investigation continues.
Victims in various locations across the country including Lancashire, Dorset, Hertfordshire, Birmingham and Londonderry lost almost £20,000 in total with many victims being over the age of 80.
The 27-year-old has been remanded into custody and the 23 and 28-year-old men have since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
Work at the NEROCU continues to pursue fraudsters and bring them to justice, but officers are also determined to make sure the public feel confident and capable of challenging scammers to help catch them in the act and report them in real time.
Following the arrests, Detective Inspector Tommy Maughan, NEROCU Economic Crime, said: “We want to empower victims and raise awareness of the complex scams being used to dupe people out of their hard-earned cash.
“These criminals are experts in manipulating people and copying the methods of communication used by banks, HMRC, the police and other reputable organisations to appear legitimate.
“They will also put pressure on you to act quickly to avoid you asking trusted friends and family or your bank for advice.”
NEROCU officers also work with banks and community groups to educate staff and the public around spotting the signs and how to report it.
DI Maughan added: “No reputable organisation will mind if you take your time, challenge them, or ask for proof and hang up.
“If in doubt, speak to someone you trust, drop into your local bank, or call the number given on your official bank statement. If you’re sent a link by text or email don’t click it, report it.”
For help and advice visit the Action Fraud website.
If you need to report a crime or suspicious activity, please speak to your local police force via their website or calling 101. Remember, in an emergency, always call 999.
The medals awarded to the eldest of four North East brothers who all fought with valour in the First World War are now back in his home county.
The Trustees of the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) bought Colonel Sir Thomas Bradford’s medals at auction, including a Distinguished Service Order.
Today, the Trustees presented the medals to Durham County Council’s culture and heritage venue, The Story, for safe keeping. The Story is home to the DLI Collection and Archive, and the acquisition means the medals have been united with other gallantry awards, objects and archives relating to the Bradford brothers. This includes the Victoria Cross presented to Brigadier General Roland Boys Bradford VC and the Death Penny of Second Lieutenant James Barker Bradford MC, both of which are on display in The Story’s free exhibition space.
These items are a record of the Bradford brothers’ heroic actions during the First World War, but they are also a poignant reminder of a family’s tragic loss. Thomas was the only brother to survive the conflict. Both Roland and James, who also served in the DLI, and their other brother, Lieutenant Commander George Nicholson Bradford VC, who served in the Royal Navy, were killed in action.
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Raised in Witton Park, near Bishop Auckland, the ‘Fighting Bradfords’ are believed to be the most decorated family of the First World War, with two Victoria Crosses, one Distinguished Service Order, two Military Crosses and three Mentions in Despatches between them.
All items relating to the Bradford brothers under The Story’s care are available to view in the venue’s Collections Search room by appointment.
Colonel Ted Shields MBE, Chair of Trustees of the DLI, said: “The courage and sacrifice of the Fighting Bradfords is a story of County Durham. When Tommie’s medals came up for auction earlier this year, we knew we had to bring them home. The Trustees are honoured to share Tommie Bradford’s medals with all who visit The Story.”
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are deeply honoured to be looking after Colonel Sir Thomas Bradford’s medals on behalf of the Trustees and the people of County Durham. The Bradford brothers’ story is one of courage and sacrifice. It speaks of the huge human cost of a war that saw so many young people lose their lives, and the heartbreak of the loved ones they left behind.
“Here at The Story, we are committed to preserving these precious medals, objects and documents to ensure future generations can learn about the Bradford brothers and the experiences of other men and women who lived through the First World War.
“The Story’s purpose-built storage rooms have been specially designed to regulate environments and provide the perfect conditions to store the county’s DLI treasures and other historic collections. Our programme of exhibitions, outreach activities and state of the art research facilities, meanwhile, offer new and exciting ways for people to engage with objects in our care.”
Born in 1886, Sir Thomas Andrews Bradford was educated at the Royal Naval College, Eltham and was commissioned Second Lieutenant, 4th (Volunteer) Battalion, DLI, in 1906. An accomplished sportsman, Thomas combined soldiering with cricket, playing for Durham from 1909 to 1914, including a spell as the county’s captain.
At the outbreak of war in, 1914, Thomas was Captain of “D” Company, 8th Battalion, DLI Territorial Force. The Durhams left Newcastle on 19 April 1915, arriving at the Front on 24 April, and were straight into action at the Second Battle of Ypres. On 25April, Thomas rallied and supported his men through heavy bombardment of trenches and huge loss of life. In just one day, 173 men in the company of 200 lost their lives, with Thomas risking his own life to lead others to safety.
During his military service, Thomas was twice mentioned in Despatches and was awarded a Distinguished Service Order. He was later promoted to Staff Captain and then to Brigade Major.
In 1915, Thomas married Rebe Blackett, and, in 1920, the couple had one son, George, James Roland Bradford, named after his three brothers.
Thomas is also remembered for his public and political service in County Durham, which led to him receiving a knighthood in 1939. In 1942, he served as High Sheriff of County Durham.
Throughout his retirement, Thomas worked for the DLI Regimental Association, and he remained a great sporting enthusiast.
Thomas died in 1966, fifty years after his three brothers.
Located in Mount Oswald House on the outskirts of Durham City, The Story contains five historic collections, including six miles of archives covering 900 years of history and the entire DLI Collection and Archive.
It is also the home of the County Registration Service, a permanent exhibition about the history of County Durham and its people, a search and discover research space and a café.
The Story is open every day and entry is free. To find out more, visit www.thestorydurham.org
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has welcomed the launch of a national pilot placing domestic abuse specialists in the 999 control rooms of five police forces.
‘Raneem’s Law’ follows the murders of Raneem Oudeh, 22, and her mother Khaola Saleem, and sees specialists joining the control rooms of the West Midlands, Northumbria, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Humberside forces.
The move is part of a new government approach to improve the police response to victims of domestic abuse and halve violence against women and girls in a decade.
In Durham the PCC was one of the first to work alongside the force and introduce a domestic abuse specialist into the control room to ensure calls for help are managed appropriately from the earliest opportunity.
The step was taken as part of an overhaul of the Victim Care and Advice Service (VCAS) – the PCC’s in-house service providing support to victims of crime across County Durham and Darlington.
In the new national pilot, domestic abuse specialists will provide:
Joy Allen said: “I strongly welcome the launch of this pilot which ensures victims receive the expert response they deserve from the very beginning.
“In Durham, we introduced a domestic abuse specialist into the police control room more than five years ago. This measure came as part of an ambitious programme of work to promote closer working relationships between VCAS, the force and our partners to save lives and ensure victims receive the help they need swiftly and simply.
“It is vital victims of these terrible crimes have trust and confidence in the processes in place to protect them, secure justice and support their long-term recovery. We must get it right from the very start – the moment when a victim first reaches out for help – to ensure opportunities are never missed to protect lives and support people at the worst time in their lives.
“Victims of crime are front and centre of everything I do as Commissioner. Through ongoing engagement with victims, we are continually learning lessons and improving what we do to address the many barriers they face in getting help and justice.
“I am delighted that we now have the opportunity to work alongside the Home Office as these pilots develop, sharing our first-hand experience for wider benefit.”
Raneem Oudeh and her mother Khaola Saleem were murdered by Raneem’s ex-husband in August 2018. There were 13 reports made to the police about concerns for Raneem’s safety, but no arrests were made. On the night she was killed, she rang 999 four times, but the police did not respond in time.
The Government is provided £2.2m to fund the first stages of Raneem’s Law over the next financial year.
A North East council has selected nationwide placemaker, Muse, as its joint venture partner to deliver the first phase of a new innovation district.
The first phase comprises the Durham County Council-owned Aykley Heads site, which is currently home to the authority’s County Hall headquarters. The 15-hectare site already has outline planning consent for 40,000 sq m of commercial space.
The council has issued a conditional award to Muse for a joint venture delivery partnership, which will act as a catalyst for the wider Durham Innovation District.
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The 62-hectare innovation district is already home to several major businesses and institutions, including Durham University Business School.
The opportunity will bring together the university, industrial partners, government, and private sector investors. The public-private partnership, supported by the university, is expected to create thousands of new jobs.
The council, with the support of the university, has shaped the vision for the innovation district, which is expected to become a regional hub for research, data science, fintech, green technology, and healthcare.
Subject to the execution of the joint venture agreement, Muse and the council will work in partnership to develop more detailed proposals.
Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “These are really exciting times for County Durham.
“It is long-standing goal of ours to develop a Strategic Employment Site at Aykley Heads and progressing a joint venture delivery partnership with Muse shows we remain committed to fulfilling that ambition.
“Aykley Heads has the potential to deliver thousands of quality jobs for our residents and, together with other sites in the new Durham Innovation District, it can be a significant driving force for County Durham’s future economic growth, as well as that of the wider North East.
“We are delighted to have the support of world leading research institution Durham University and the North East Combined Authority, and look forward to the university’s presence acting as a catalyst to help us attract innovation-led businesses and investors to Aykley Heads and the wider district.
“An innovation district in County Durham which is of regional, national, and international significance will deliver jobs for residents and ensure our city remains a great place to live, work, visit and invest.”
Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse, said: “Durham County Council, supported by Durham University, has already developed an ambitious vision, and we are excited at the prospect of working in partnership to deliver the Durham Innovation District.
“The Aykley Heads campus will act as the catalyst for this nationally significant opportunity which will leverage the long-term vision of the council and delivery capability of Muse, alongside the innovation pedigree of the university.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive economic growth and job creation in County Durham and the North East.”
Kim McGuinness, the North East Mayor, said: “The rebirth of Aykley Heads and the wider innovation district represents an important turning point for Durham which has the potential to create thousands of new jobs close to the heart of the city. We have invested £9.2 million in this partnership as part of our programme to support economic growth and create real opportunity for local people by bringing new businesses and jobs to our region.”
Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, said: “The development of Aykley Heads and the Durham Innovation District is a unique opportunity to catalyse inclusive, innovative and sustainable growth in our region, by attracting new investment and creating new, high-quality jobs.
“We look forward to working with Durham County Council to ensure our communities benefit most from this nationally significant project.”
A large-scale clean-up operation has been launched to enhance County Durham’s communities.
Durham County Council has allocated an additional £150,000 to its Clean and Green team to carry out a clean-up operation across the county.
The team used the money to take on eight additional staff as well as purchase four pick-up trucks and some small machinery equipment including three path cleaners – for north, south and central sections of the county.
Clean and Green are currently finishing phase one of the works, which include:
· Lifting low tree branches
· Pruning growth around the bases of trees
· Tidying up areas that require a strim or weed spray
· Removing or repairing broken fencing
· Cleaning and painting fences
· Deep cleaning footpaths
· Cleaning street signs
· Cutting back growth that is obscuring street signs
· Sweeping to improve visibility at roundabouts
· Installing traps which catch litter
Cllr Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “Having a clean, tidy community not only makes an area more pleasant to live, but it is also something we know is very important to residents.
“As one of the largest local authority areas in the North East, County Durham has a significantly large footprint – from the Dales to Durham City to the coast. Maintaining every single corner of the county requires a significant amount of time and people on the ground.
“We’ve decided to allocate additional money to Clean and Green so that we can carry out this large-scale operation to tidy up our towns and villages. These actions might be small, but they make a huge difference to residents and will have a positive impact on overall community wellbeing.”
Once phase one is complete, the Clean and Green team will continue its clean up operation as well as carry out preparatory work ahead of the coming seasons.
Areas for work will be identified through proactive surveys from the Clean and Green and Find and Fix teams, reports from members of the public through Do It Online, as well as an overall ward-by-ward approach.
A County Durham man has been left more than £1,500 worse off and with a criminal conviction after failing to assist a flytipping investigation.
Byron Cant-Raine was successfully prosecuted by Durham County Council after failing to attend an interview in relation to a flytip at Brancepeth.
Ian Hoult, the council’s neighbourhood protection manager, said: “We take great pride in the appearance of our county and therefore take a very dim view of any flytipping. As well as being an eyesore, illegally dumped waste can damage the environment and is a drain on our resources.
“Wherever flytips are reported to us we investigate and look to take action against the perpetrators.
“To do this we need people to co-operate with our investigations and in this case Mr Cant-Raine failed to attend an interview which made it harder for us to progress our enquiries.
“He now finds himself more than £1,500 worse off and with a criminal conviction and we hope this sentence acts as a warning to anyone thinking it is optional to help us in our enquiries into flytipping.”
Cant-Raine, 31, of Jubilee Terrace, Willington, pleaded not guilty to the charge and appeared before Peterlee magistrates for trial.
The court was told that a neighbourhood warden from the council discovered flytipped waste at the side of Sandy Lonnen, a C road, in September 2023.
The warden checked footage from a CCTV camera in the area to see if it showed how the waste came to be there.
Magistrates heard the footage showed a vehicle registered to Cant-Raine, resulting in him being invited to interview.
However the court was told he failed to attend on this or “multiple” other occasions.
In Cant-Raine’s defence, magistrates heard he had sold the vehicle visible in the footage, although he had not provided a relevant document to the new owner. Furthermore, he claimed his registration plates had been cloned.
The defendant also said he was working away at the time of all the interviews scheduled and was under the assumption that his attendance was voluntary.
The court found him guilty and imposed a fine of £275, costs of £1,163.60 and a victim surcharge of £110 – a total of £1,547.60.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen is inviting residents to get involved in her scrutiny meeting focused on trust and confidence in policing.
Trust and confidence in policing has declined over recent years, with a recent survey showing that nationally, over half of the adult population has little confidence in the police to tackle crime effectively where they live.
Whilst this can be down individual experience, many people have little or no contact with the police, so base their views on media reports, social media commentary and word of mouth. The position has been made worse by recent high profile police misconduct cases, which have shocked the nation.
This lack of trust makes it harder for police officers and staff to do their jobs, damaging the fundamental principle of ‘policing by consent’.
As County Durham and Darlington Police and Crime Commissioner, Joy Allen has prioritised rebuilding trust and confidence in local policing. This is why her next Public Accountability Meeting will focus on the issue.
Public Accountability Meetings are just one way in which the Commissioner holds the Chief Constable to account for police performance. They focus on a key strand of work to enable indepth scrutiny of force performance.
Residents and business owners are invited to submit questions ahead of the meeting which will be answered by the Chief Constable, Police and Crime Commissioner or senior officers as part of the agenda.
At the next meeting, which will be held on Tuesday 4 March, the Commissioner will receive an update from the force on the work underway to improve public trust and confidence in policing and community safety.
She hopes that the public will put forward questions that not only help her to scrutinise force performance but also highlight areas where improvement or change is necessary.
Commissioner Joy Allen said: “I cannot emphasise enough how important it is local people share their views by questioning the force. The issues that are important to residents and businesses are important to me and help me identify where improvements are needed.
“This is their opportunity to share their frustrations and concerns. This is their chance to illustrate why their trust and confidence in policing is waning, so that we can address these problems.
“We are working hard to build trust and confidence in the work we do to improve public safety as this has a huge bearing on how safe people feel. We have made huge strides, particularly in relation to our public contact processes, but we can and will do more. Please make your voice count by submitting any questions or concerns you have in advance of the meeting to help us understand what we are doing well and what we could do better.”
The deadline for submission of questions is Wednesday 26 February 2025. Please email: General.EnquiriesPCC@durham-pcc.gov.uk.
Volunteers who help to keep County Durham’s coastline clean will continue to be supported thanks to council funding.
Durham County Council works alongside other local authorities, and organisations such as The National Trust, Durham Wildlife Trust, Groundwork and Northumbrian Water, as part of the Heritage Coast Partnership.
The partnership aims to conserve, protect and enhance the whole of the Heritage coastline.
Since 2021, 4,511 volunteers who have supported the partnership have helped collect 5,175 bags of rubbish from the Durham coastline, through 321 beach cleans.
Spanning from Seaham Hall beach to Crimdon beach, volunteers from schools, colleges and businesses, as well as individuals and community groups have worked hard to protect the environment.
The council has now provided funding to allow the partnership’s beach care officer to continue in post for up to three years. The officer will continue to organise the volunteer effort and to engage with members of the public to develop their understanding of the coast.
Cllr Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone for their efforts in helping to keep our coastline clean. Our Heritage Coast is hugely important to County Durham, not just for its stunning scenery but also its wildlife and natural habitats, with many Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
“Everyone who has volunteered their time is helping to protect this special environment.
“We are committed to ensuring this continues for years to come and that is why we have provided funding that will allow the partnership’s beach care officer to continue in their post to organise even more clean ups and help raise awareness of the importance of tidying up after ourselves after a visit to the beach.”
Emily Routledge, head of development and communications at Durham Wildlife Trust, said: “It is so important that we all work together through the partnership to do our bit to protect this incredible environment.
“We want to ensure everyone is able to enjoy our coastline, for generations to come. To do that, we need to raise awareness of how important this landscape is and make sure that we rally residents to take charge of their own environment by helping to keep it clean. We look forward to this work continuing over the next few years.”
Some of the most common items now found during beach cleans include microplastics, plastic bottles and disposable vapes, with visitors urged to take all rubbish home with them.
More information on recycling, including recycling points for vapes, can be found at www.durham.gov.uk/reducereuserecycle
For more information on the Heritage Coast Partnership, visit www.durhamheritagecoast.org
To take part in a beach clean or find out more, email volunteer@durhamwt.co.uk
Drivers passing through Durham are being warned of enforcement coming into place at a key junction.
From Monday 17 February, Durham County Council will be introducing an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera at the yellow box junction at Neville’s Cross.
The Highway Code states that drivers must not enter a yellow box junction until their exit road or lane is clear.
Drivers may only enter the box and wait if they are turning right and are prevented from doing so by oncoming traffic.
The ANPR camera will monitor any vehicles that stop in the yellow box, and those caught not using the junction in line with the highway code will be issued with a £70 Penalty Charge Notice.
The initiative has been funded by councillors Elizabeth Scott and Liz Brown, who each contributed £10,655.50 through their Area Action Partnership (AAP) neighbourhood budgets, totalling £21,311.
Craig Morgan, Durham County Council’s AAP coordinator for Durham, said: “The A167 and Neville’s Cross junction is a busy route, with particularly high levels of traffic during commuting times. Stopping in the yellow box junction can contribute to traffic jams as well as block important blue light routes for emergency services.
“This initiative aims to improve the traffic flow of this area by discouraging the number of drivers stopping in the junction and obstructing it for other road users. It will also help protect pedestrians crossing, particularly during times when there are a high volume of families and school children using them.”
For more information about the Penalty Charge Notice process, visit www.durham.gov.uk/pcn.
Schoolchildren in County Durham have shown off their new £40m state-of-the-art learning environment to council leaders.
Children at Belmont Community School and Belmont Church of England Primary School welcomed Cabinet members from Durham County Council for the official opening of their modern new shared campus – which has been funded by the local authority.
Children from both schools were joined by council Leader Cllr Amanda Hopgood and Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, Cllr Ted Henderson, for the unveiling of their new facilities.
In all, the new builds will cater for more than 1,200 children and young people and represent County Durham’s first low carbon school sites, with each equipped with photovoltaic solar panels and air-source heat pumps.
The Belmont project is expected to be worth more than £8m in ‘social value’ to County Durham, through a range of activity including more than a thousand hours supporting young people into work and organising career sessions, as well as hundreds of apprenticeship weeks.
Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “Educating our children and giving them the best possible grounding for their future is of utmost importance to us.
“That is why, despite being in challenging times, we have invested £40m in these top-class facilities at Belmont that will aid the learning of more than 1,200 primary and secondary age children now and many more into the future.
“These new facilities at Belmont follow significant investment we have made in school buildings across County Durham in recent years – most recently at Springmoor Grange at Spennymoor. We will continue to support the teaching of our young people in this way wherever we can.
“We’re also delighted that Belmont boasts our first low carbon schools which is really important as we continue to do everything we can to try and reduce emissions across County Durham.
“What’s more, we’re really pleased that this project is worth more than £8m in social value to our county, through a range of activity including apprenticeships, career sessions and supporting young people into work.”
The new Belmont Community School has capacity for 900 pupils, while the primary school can accommodate up to 315 pupils plus early years provision – in a single site for the first time.
The new Belmont Sports Centre which adjoins the community school site includes cricket facilities co-funded by the England and Wales Cricket Board. New nets will be used not just by schoolchildren but also by Durham County Cricket Club for its 11 to 15 youth development programmes.
The campus, constructed by Durham County Council’s contractor Kier, also boasts a fitness gym and dance studio and performance facilities including music rooms, hi-tech drama studio and theatre hall, co-funded by The Wolfson Foundation.
Outdoor multi-use games areas, co-funded by The Football Foundation, that the local community will also be able to use, including a 3G pitch, will follow. So too will an outdoor learning space and Forest School area.
Paul Marsden, headteacher at Belmont Community School, said: “We are delighted that Durham County Council has invested in educational provision for the children of Belmont.
“The campus meets the growing need for school spaces in the area, following the building of new houses and we believe this whole project is a shining example of the power of collaboration.
“The new facilities allow us to maintain and build on our traditional academic success and long history in the performing arts, while also providing amazing sporting facilities.
“We are also proud to be one of the first low carbon school buildings and the first in County Durham. More than 50,000 tonnes of carbon have been saved by reusing old school furniture and most energy for the campus is generated onsite.”
Kirsty Harrison-Brown, headteacher of Belmont Church of England Primary School, said: “The new campus has provided us with a fantastic opportunity to bring together our nursery and primary children in one state-of-the-art building. This will have a transformational impact on the lives of our young people and the community. We are very much looking forward to the future and to the wonderful prospects this will provide for our Belmont family and community.”
Social value is the value an organisation contributes to society beyond its ‘business as usual.’ It is quantified in terms of benefit to the economy, the community and the environment in monetary terms.
The council’s procurement of Kier to build the new schools has delivered social value of more than £8m for County Durham, through a range of activity including:
An eight-year-old boy who lives with a disability has been praised for saving the life of his dad who had slipped into a diabetic coma.
Durham Police said Tyler gave the 999 call handler “vital information”, while also keeping his four-year-old sister calm, after dad Jamie Miller became seriously ill at home.
Tyler has Global Developmental Delay, meaning he has “the mind of a four-year-old”, his parents explained, as well as having a speech delay.
Durham Police’s neighbourhood team decided to reward Tyler with a “VIP experience”, as he is “police-obsessed”.
When emergency services arrived they found Mr Miller, who has type 1 diabetes, unconscious on the floor and “hardly breathing”.
The 37-year-old had to spend a week in hospital but has since recovered and was said to be “doing well at home”.
PC Jordan McGregor, who was first on the scene, said: “Tyler is very enthusiastic about the police, but was apprehensive that he may be in trouble for contacting the police when he did, so he deserves extra credit for that too.”
As a reward, officer picked Tyler up from school for a ride in the police car last week and he was presented with gifts donated by a local Tesco branch.
Mum Samantha explained Tyler’s dad had been ill once before due to his condition and they decided to teach him how to call for help.
She said: “It’s not something I expected he’d be able to do so we’re super proud.”
She added she was “even more impressed” he had managed to raise the alarm despite his disability and speech delay.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Daniel Beardmore said Tyler “no doubt” saved his dad’s life.
He added: “We all need more Tylers in the world and we hope he and his whole family have a fantastic Christmas.”
A three-year-old girl who had a life-saving organ transplant will appear on the Christmas special of Casualty to highlight the importance of donation.
Beatrix, from Burnopfield in County Durham, spent more than a year in the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle waiting for a new heart.
She had her transplant in 2022 and needed multiple blood transfusions.
Her father Terry said she was now “thriving” and “owes her life” to her heart donor and the people who had given blood across the country.
“She’s only here because of these amazing people,” he said.
“If you saw her now and you didn’t know her back story you would not have a clue what had transpired in her life so far.”
As one of approximately 200 children waiting for a transplant in the UK, with only about 50 donors a year, Beatrix celebrated childhood milestones such as her first steps, words and teeth in hospital.
Terry has since started working with the volunteer delivery service Northumbria Blood Bikes, which was approached by the BBC medical drama to be part of an episode about blood donation.
Terry, Beatrix and her mother Cheryl will feature on the festive special alongside others who have been directly affected.
Holidaymakers who decide to drive under the influence once they touch down at the airport are being targeted as part of a new police operation.
The first of its kind in the North East, Operation Take Off sees Durham officers team up with Northumbria Police to take dangerous drivers off the roads.
It is hoped the campaign will make travellers leaving the airport think twice about driving under the influence so further fatalities can be prevented.
It follows the devastating loss of baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner who were killed on their way home from the airport in May.
Their killer, Darryl Anderson, had also landed at the airport and selfishly decided to get behind the wheel despite being nearly three times over the drink drive limit.
The 38-year-old had been taking pictures of himself driving his Audi Q5 at speeds of more than 140mph when he ploughed into the back of the Peugeot 308, Zachary and Karlene were in.
Zackary’s mum, Shalorna Warner, was the sole survivor in the Peugeot and has bravely been campaigning for tougher sentences for those who cause these devastating collisions in memory of her son and sister.
It is hoped the new campaign will make travellers leaving the airport think twice about driving under the influence so further fatalities can be prevented.
Out of 80 people breathalysed at the airport today, all drivers tested negative for being over the drink-drive limit. Two of them had alcohol in their system but were below the legal limit.
They were given advice and a warning about how long alcohol can stay in the body.
Inspector Simon Hogg, who led the initiative, said: “My team dealt with the fatal crash in May that horrifically took the lives of baby Zackary and Karlene.
“They were tragically killed by a drink driver who had just stepped off the plane, leaving a family absolutely devastated.
“This was also an awful incident for the emergency services to be involved in and it is something that will live with them forever.
“The message is really clear – it is never ok to drive under the influence. Please don’t be tempted to have some last-minute holiday beers and drink on the plane if you will be driving home from the airport – life is too precious.”
Inspector Phil Patterson, of Northumbria Police, said: “A split decision to drive while under the influence could ruin countless lives – and tragically, this has been the case for the loved ones of baby Zackary and Karlene.
“The cost of a taxi home is far less than the price you would pay for causing another person serious injury or harm – or even death.
“There is simply no excuse for putting other people at risk – and your ability to drive safely will be massively impaired if you decide to have a drink during your travels.
“We’ll continue to work together with our blue-light colleagues to keep everyone on our roads safe, and crackdown on those flouting the law.”
It is hoped holidaymakers will take heed of the campaign, which will be used throughout the year and particularly in busy holiday months.
The campaign is also being supported by the Police and Crime Commissioners for both Durham and Northumbria.
Durham’s PCC, Joy Allen, said: “Drink or drug driving is a selfish and inexcusable act. It is vital our justice system sufficiently punishes those who recklessly gamble with people’s lives and cause these devastating tragedies to prevent them from harming other innocent people in the future.
“Zackary’s parents and the whole family has suffered the most unimaginable grief and loss. I cannot put into words how courageous and inspirational they are to take this pain and apply it positively to secure vital changes that will prevent others from enduring the same heartache.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth said: “Nobody should get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs. This proactive policing isn’t about stopping people from having fun, it’s about keeping our communities and roads safe and encouraging people to make responsible choices.
“If you don’t, the consequences can be fatal and so many lives can be left devastated as sadly Zackary’s family know only too well. We just want to save others from going through what they have and I am pleased officers are taking action.”
Mason Longstaff from the Newton Aycliffe and Bishop Auckland area who was a volunteer with local charity Angel Trust has been convicted. He has been convicted with 18 months suspended sentence and had to sign a SHPO for 10 years.
Angel Trust in a statement has said:
Recently, social media content has been shared regarding a current Angel Trust volunteer, naming both the volunteer and Angel Trust. While we will not delve into the specifics in this statement due to GDPR and internal work, we take such matters very seriously. We are committed to supporting our service users, communities, volunteers and staff in accordance with our company policies and legal guidance.
Angel Trust is a charity dedicated to the people, and we have accomplished incredible work throughout 2024. We recognise the power of social media to connect and inform, but we also understand its potential to spread misinformation and incite harmful behaviour. We do not condone any comments promoting violence or aggression.
Social media can rapidly disseminate information, leading to vigilantism and cruelty, causing irreparable harm. While we fully support victims of wrongdoing, we believe in addressing these issues through the proper channels to ensure fairness and accuracy. Angel Trust is committed to transparency in how we handle matters of public interest and will always provide a safe space for concerns to be addressed.
We urge those sharing and commenting on these posts to ensure they have accurate information. Angel Trust has robust procedures and support systems in place to ensure the safety of all staff and users at events or on our premises with the guidance of police, probation and other external professionals. We have addressed the situation in accordance with our policies and legal support, prioritising wellbeing and upholding risk assessments and support from relevant services.
Due to the sensitive nature of this case we feel we cannot delve into the investigation that has been conducted by Angel Trust, however we do feel we have a duty to ensure our supporters, followers and community that Angel Trust don not take situations of this nature lightly. We have therefore taken the necessary steps along with police and probation to ensure that the said volunteer will no longer be voluntarily working at Angel Trust.
We do not want negative commentary to overshadow the good work Angel Trust does for our communities. Rest assured, this situation will not detract from our commitment to supporting the people we serve.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Board of Trustees
Angel Trust
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Arriva North East will implement fare changes starting January 1, 2025.
In response to customer and stakeholder feedback regarding the complexity of the single fare structure, most single fares in the region will now be set at £1.60 or £1.70 for short trips, £2.30 for slightly longer journeys, and capped at £2.50 or £3.00 for longer trips.
For journeys entirely within County Durham, Northumberland, and Tyne & Wear, the maximum single fare will be £2.50. However, for trips outside this area, including cross-boundary journeys between County Durham and the Tees Valley, the maximum fare will be £3.00.
If your current single fare is around £1.90, your new fare will be adjusted to either £1.60 or £1.70. For those paying up to £2, the new fare will be either £2.30 or capped at £2.50/£3.00.
Please note that the evening-only £1 fares in Darlington and Stockton (Service 15) will be discontinued.
Return tickets will no longer be available for purchase, but all existing day, weekly, and longer-term tickets will remain unchanged in price and zones. Additionally, the current under-21 £1 single fare schemes and £3 day tickets will continue to be offered.
