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
A crooked accountant who abused his position to orchestrate a £1.7 million tax fraud – spending the stolen cash on lavish holidays and cars – has been jailed for four years.
Kenneth Scott, who ran an accountancy firm from five bases across the North East, charged clients VAT but failed to pay it to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
The 69-year-old from Durham also deducted tax and National Insurance payments from more than 50 staff members, which he also kept instead of declaring.
This has had serious consequences for his former employees, including an impact on their entitlement to State Pension and their ability to claim certain benefits.
Gary Darrington, Operational Lead, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said:
“As an accountant Kenneth Scott should have known better than to try and cheat the system. He stole from the taxpayer and damaged the tax records of his employees, which we have been working hard to correct.
“Accountants hold a position of enormous trust and this sentence should serve as a warning to the minority of corrupt professionals who wrongly believe they can use their knowledge to commit or facilitate tax crime.
“Anyone with information about suspected tax fraud can report it online.”
Scott spent hundreds of thousands of pounds from the proceeds of his crimes on himself, including a £30,000 cruise and an Aston Martin. HMRC has now restrained several assets, including Scott’s pension and a number of properties.
Scott was arrested at his home in April 2021 and admitted the fraud at Newcastle Crown Court. He was jailed for four years at the same court on 4 April 2025.
Action to recover the stolen cash is underway.
HM Revenue & Customs Press Office (HMRC)
A brand-new launch pad membership designed to support early-stage businesses has been created by the North East Chamber of Commerce.
Start Up and Grow is the latest addition to the Chamber’s enhanced membership offer, providing the tools, support and connections for incorporated start-ups in their first two years of business.
The launch marks a significant step in the Chamber’s mission to support North East businesses at every stage of their journey – from every start-up story and scale-up journey to the business leaders and international explorers.
Jennifer Rycroft, executive director of membership said, “Start-ups are vital to the health of the North East economy, and we’re proud to be launching a membership that is specifically designed to help build solid foundations for long term success.”
Sarah Skelton, senior membership development and operations manager said, “Start Up and Grow delivers against our commitment to support businesses at every stage of their journey. It focuses on accelerating growth by offering vital resources, workshops and guidance from funding to practical support. It’s an affordable way for new businesses to access essential support.”
The new membership includes access to the Chamber’s new and exclusive Straight from the Source information hub, networking opportunities, expert-led workshops, hot desking, registered address and mailbox services. And supported by an expert team.
To mark the launch, the Chamber is hosting events across the region, the first of which took place in Newcastle in March, with events in Middlesbrough and Durham planned in April.
The events are open to all with an opportunity to hear more about the package, meet the Chamber team and connect with other start-ups in the region.
For more information or to book your place at one of the final launch events, visit www.necc.co.uk/start-up-and-grow/
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.”
Increasing access to free school meals, providing warm and welcoming spaces, supporting rural communities and helping businesses to thrive are just some examples of partnership work in action in County Durham.
Next week, Durham County Council’s Cabinet will receive an update on the issues being addressed by the County Durham Partnership (CDP).
Made up of leaders from key public, private and voluntary sector organisations – including the local authority – the CDP aim is to improve the quality of life for people within the county. Its vision is for County Durham to be a place where there are more and better jobs, people live long and independent lives and communities are well connected.
Key projects and achievements over the last 12 months include:
More and better jobs
· An economic review found 8,000 more residents are now in employment than before the Inclusive Economic Strategy was adopted in 2022. The review also showed that the economy has largely recovered from Covid-19 and that in some parts of the economy, such as employment levels and productivity, pre-pandemic levels have been exceeded.
· The County Durham Economic Partnership brought key partners together for a conference to discuss the challenges faced by rural communities in relation to economic growth. As a result, funding was provided to Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services to support communities, including delivering rural skills training. Rural issues will also be a key focus of the Inclusive Economic Strategy.
· A new Enterprise Framework and Business Growth Programme are among initiatives introduced to support businesses. Important employability programmes, such as DurhamWorks, were also continued to help people into work and training.
· DurhamEnable – a programme that helps jobseekers and employers to breakdown the barriers to work faced by people with disabilities, neurodiversities, and long-term health conditions – was ranked as excellent in its most recent Supported Employment Quality Framework assessment.
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People live long and independent lives
· An additional 2,469 children received a free school meal after a scheme which automatically enrolled eligible families was piloted in County Durham. This resulted in a further 1,700 households saving £400 a year and unlocked an estimated £3.5 million in additional funding for schools.
· A Making Suicide Everybody’s Business Conference, supported by the Health and Wellbeing Board, took place for professionals across the system. The conference brought people together to look at action already being taken in County Durham and to explore what more can be done to prevent suicide.
· The Environment and Climate Change Partnership Plan 2025 – 2028 was adopted.
· Communities and organisations that go the extra mile to care for the environment were celebrated at the annual County Durham Environment Awards.
Connected communities
· This year, the County Durham Partnership’s annual event focused on how partners can work together to empower communities.
· The council’s 14 Area Action Partnerships (AAPs) will be replaced by 12 Local Networks from April. The aim is to increase opportunities for communities and individuals to get involved in improving their area.
· 75 Welcome Spaces were supported between October 2024 to January 2025, with £190,000 of funding allocated to community groups and organisations across the county. Durham County Council and Point North led the scheme, which helped to create a network of warm, safe and welcoming places for people to come together over the colder winter months.
· An Energy Efficiency Grant fund was provided to the council to support community buildings to reduce their carbon footprints and fuel costs. A range of measures have been taken across the country, including improving insulation; solar panel installation; lighting and heating improvements; window and door replacement; and the introduction of air source heat pumps.
· The Safe Durham Partnership was shortlisted for the Exemplary Partnership Award at the National Anti-Social Behaviour Awards in recognition of its work to establish a joint approach to tackling anti-social behaviour in County Durham and Darlington.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We firmly believe in the power of partnership work to improve people’s lives and boost the county’s economy. By working together, we can draw on a wealth of skills, experience, knowledge and resources, and we can reach more people. This is at the heart of the County Durham Partnership, along with a joint desire to empower our communities, support businesses and attract investment. We’re delighted to share such a positive update on the partnership’s work over the last 12 months, and we’re looking forward to a busy year ahead following the launch of our new Local Networks.”
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The CDP is made up of the CDP Board, CDP Forum, five thematic partnerships, safeguarding boards, 14 Area AAPs and a range of sub-groups and networks. This
includes town and parish councils, faith groups, the Armed Forces and the voluntary and community sector.
To find out more, visit www.countydurhampartnership.co.uk.
The scale of change taking place at Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum and Art Gallery is now clearly visible, following the construction of a large steel frame on the site.
The new structure will form an extension to the Durham city venue, almost doubling its original size.
Work to redevelop the building to create a dynamic exhibition space and creative hub started last year, with the completion of the new steel framework marking a milestone in progress onsite.
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Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Cabinet member for economy and partnerships at Durham County Council, which owns the venue, said: “It’s fantastic to see such significant progress on site. The steel framework really shows the scale of the work we are undertaking at the DLI Museum and Art Gallery and is an exciting reminder of our ambition for the venue.
“This is going to be a world-class cultural venue, capable of hosting internationally significant exhibitions, offering a new space for showing DLI and providing welcome indoor and outdoor spaces for residents and visitors to feel inspired.
“I’m enjoying seeing our vision starting to take shape and looking forward to the next time we can offer an update on this exciting project.”
A significant part of the original structural shell of the DLI Museum and Art Gallery is being retained, with work being carried out to upgrade the concrete sections to ensure they are suitable for a modern, energy efficient, public venue.
The new extension will include galley space with a ceiling height of up to five metres to allow for as much flexibility as possible in the display spaces.
A new access road and substation have already been completed and work is currently underway to install lift shafts to access the multiple levels of the building.
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
The potential for thousands of new jobs in County Durham has moved a step closer, after senior councillors agreed to progress to the next stage in a development plan.
Durham County Council’s Cabinet has agreed to take the next step in its procurement process, in its plans to develop land at Aykley Heads as a Strategic Employment Site, and deliver the new Durham Innovation District.
Councillors agreed to the local authority taking the next step in the process, with a preferred joint venture delivery partner.
The 35,483 square metres of land at Aykley Heads, in Durham City, have the potential to deliver in the region of 3,700 jobs.
Cabinet also agreed to proceed with negotiations to buy the freehold on the Milburngate site in Durham City.
Milburngate and Aykley Heads would, under the council’s vision, form part of the Durham Innovation District. So too would Durham University’s Business School and recently approved Data Centre, and the refurbished Durham Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery – the latter two of which are also at Aykley Heads.
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Cllr James Rowlandson, the council’s Cabinet member for resources, investment and assets, said: “These are really exciting times for our city and county with the prospect of progress on major sites such as Aykley Heads and Milburngate, which we know in particular people want to see movement on.
“It is long-standing goal of ours to develop a Strategic Employment Site at Aykley Heads and moving to the next stage of the process of entering a Joint Venture Delivery Partnership shows we remain committed to delivering on that ambition.
“The site has the potential to deliver in the region of 3,700 quality jobs for our residents and to be a driving force for County Durham’s future economic growth, as well as that of the wider North East.
“Aykley Heads has a unique offering. It is a high-quality city-based site with beautiful natural landscape; direct access to Durham’s main line rail station, with its connectivity to London, Edinburgh, and other economic centres; and unrivalled views of UNESCO World Heritage Site Durham Castle and Cathedral and Castle
“It also has a world leading research university on the doorstep that has supported us, alongside the North East Combined Authority, in our plans for redevelopment of Aykley Heads and creation of the Durham Innovation District.
“We firmly believe the involvement of Durham University, and the exciting plans for a supercomputer, can act as a catalyst to attract innovation-led businesses and investors to Aykley Heads.
“Together with the university’s Business School, the reimagined DLI Museum and Art Gallery and the potential progress at Milburngate, we want Durham to have an innovation district of regional, national, and international significance, that will deliver jobs for residents and make our city a great place to live, work, visit and invest.”
Professor Colin Bain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) at 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 the joint venture delivery partner and Durham County Council, to ensure our communities benefit most from this nationally significant project.”
Innovation districts are geographic areas with networks of knowledge-producing organisations such as universities, research bodies, cultural institutions, and knowledge-intensive businesses. They bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, creatives, knowledge workers and investors to work together, to collaborate, compare and compete, creating the conditions for business growth.
The council’s vision is for Aykley Heads and the innovation district to be home to research, green jobs, electronics, digital and creative, fintech, life sciences and satellite applications sectors.
A joint venture would see Aykley Heads and the innovation district delivered and operated by the council working with a strategic partner which would bring the skills, networks, investment, and expertise needed. By partnering, the council would benefit from market knowledge and insight to inform and shape the nature and composition of Aykley Heads and the innovation district. It would also retain long term influence over activity at Aykley Heads and the innovation district; and a share in their future economic success.
The county council’s plans for Aykley Heads to become a Strategic Employment site as part of the innovation district will see demolition of the authority’s County Hall headquarters.
Staff have already begun relocating to alternative office accommodation, including at purpose-built Corten House; with the refurbished Rivergreen Building to follow, both at Aykley Heads.
The North East Combined Authority has also invested £9.2m in infrastructure work at Aykley Heads – designated a key strategic site in the region’s devolution deal – in anticipation of its redevelopment as part of the innovation district.
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.
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A County Durham primary school has been recognised for its work to bring the world into the classroom.
Wingate Primary School has been awarded the prestigious International School Award by the British Council.
The award celebrates the achievements of schools that bring an international dimension into their curriculum, enabling young people to gain a cultural understanding and range of skills.
Pupils at Wingate Primary have worked alongside partner schools in Italy on a food and water waste project, discovered a love of similar hobbies with school children abroad, and helped to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Durham City.
They have also taken part in the North East Festival of Languages to celebrate the different cultures and languages represented across the region, and enjoyed a German language seminar in collaboration with Durham University.
Jackie Lombard, languages lead at Wingate Primary School, said: “I am so proud of our children and all they achieve. Whether it’s trying new foods or working with each other to discover interesting facts about other countries and cultures, our pupils have such an appetite for learning and do so with great enthusiasm.
“It’s wonderful to be able to offer such opportunities to our pupils. We hope this will inspire a love of languages and a greater understanding of different cultures and traditions, paving the way for them to be successful global citizens when they’re older.”
Cllr Ted Henderson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We would like to offer huge congratulations to everyone at Wingate Primary School on their International School Award.
“It’s so important that children learn about different countries and have the skills and awareness they need for a career in the global workplace. Being offered the opportunity to forge international friendships at such a young age is a fantastic starting point for our pupils and it is great to see how committed our schools are to fostering this love of learning.”
Caption 1: Indie Arnett and Sienna Whiting with their own version of the Brandenburg Gate.
Caption 2: Ayden Nellis in the dragon, as part of a Reception dragon dance.
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:
A Durham City shop that sold vapes to children on multiple occasions, including a 15-year-old, has been ordered to close for three months.
Phone Gadget, on Silver Street, has been told by a court to close its doors following a successful application by Durham County Council, which was acting in response to 19 complaints about the premises.
The court also heard that hundreds of illegal vapes and illicit tobacco were removed from the premises over various visits. On one occasion, goods worth more than £2,800 were seized, with these hidden under the counter and in a cupboard.
Ian Harrison, the council’s business compliance manager, said: “Selling vapes to children is illegal and something we simply will not tolerate in County Durham as it is damaging to young people’s health and increases the chances of them getting addicted.
“This premises was also found to be selling illegal tobacco products which, as well as their health implications, can also attract criminality to our communities.
“We are pleased the court has granted a closure order and hope this serves as a warning that we will take action wherever we can to stop vapes being sold to children and to tackle the supply of illegal tobacco.”
Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court heard how between May 2022 and December of last year, the council received 19 complaints about the sale of illegal vapes and the sale of age restricted products to under 18s.
In August 2022, the owner of the shop – who was also sole director of the business liable for the premises, and the business, were given advice.
Yet in September 2022, local authority officers recovered 69 vapes from the shop which were illegal because their tank sizes exceeded the two millilitre tank size limit.
On the back of this, the owner and business were given a warning.
However, during a test purchase in April 2023, a 15-year-old child was sold a vape. Officers recovered 203 illegal vapes from the premises.
In January of last year, the owner was prosecuted for the offences from April 2023 namely selling counterfeit products; selling products without health warnings; selling non-compliant e-cigarettes; and selling e-cigarettes to a child under the age of 18.
Further test purchases in May and July of last year again resulted in underage children being sold vapes.
In December, the owner and the business were prosecuted for the offences from May and July namely selling nicotine products to a child under the age of 18
However, two days after the court hearing and again last month, test purchases were carried out in which illegal higher tank capacity vapes were sold.
On the day of the second test purchase, 123 illegal vapes were recovered, together with counterfeit tobacco products and tobacco products not bearing the required health warnings and standardised packaging.
The total street value of the cigarettes and vapes seized from the premises was £2,844.
The illegal tobacco and vapes recovered from the premises were not on display like other vapes inside the premises. They were found under the store counter out of sight and also concealed within a cupboard.
Magistrates were told consultation had been carried out and that the council’s neighbourhood wardens and Durham Constabulary both supported the closure of the shop.
The court was also told Newcastle City Council has been aware of the owner since 2016. A shop he owned in its area had been found to sell illegal vapes to children, illicit tobacco and counterfeit laptop chargers.
In court the owner said he had trusted someone else to run the shop for him and had spoken to that person following the incidents. He told magistrates he had subsequently changed his staff and knew to ensure that ID is asked for.
As well as the closure, magistrates ordered the owner to pay costs of £1,709.
Inspector Dave Clarke, from Durham City Neighbourhood Team, said: “We had a number of complaints from concerned parents about this shop, which allow us to build up an intelligence picture and take enforcement action alongside our key partners.
“We hope this assures the public that their concerns are listened to and acted upon”
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.”
A new campaign is underway to ramp up efforts to prevent burglary and car crime over the winter months thanks to funding from Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.
The County Durham and Darlington PCC has invested £18k into Durham Constabulary’s Winter Nights 2024 operation.
The initiative, which runs until January 2025, will see hundreds of householders handed free crime prevention equipment and security devices including fake TVs, UV pens, light timers, window alarms and door chimes to reduce their risk of becoming a victim of crime. It will run alongside a major campaign raising awareness of the risks of theft and providing vital crime prevention advice to help residents better protect their property. This will include leaflet drops in hotspot crime areas.
Other proactive work will be undertaken by volunteer police cadets and the force will link the scheme to existing operations including Operation Hawkeye which is aimed at defeating opportunistic thieves to spread the safety message.
Data shows residential burglaries and car crimes typically peak during the winter months and recent figures show these crimes are already increasing.
Officers are taking a problem-solving approach to issues, working with partners to reduce opportunities for criminals and roll out crime prevention initiatives.
The force held a Winter Nights initiative between December 2023 and March 2024 during which properties in hotspot areas received advice leaflets. The most vulnerable properties were provided with crime prevention equipment.
The campaign was a resounding success and helped to increase reassurance among residents and confidence in the work of the police to tackle these crimes.
Commissioner Allen said: “We know criminals seek opportunity. The more we can do to limit the prospects of an easy win, the more likely our homes and property will remain safe.
“Any type of crime impacting the home or our personal property is a violation. It may take several years to recover from such an experience, and at the very least, increases fear. These simple devices can make a difference, and spare people the trauma and inconvenience of being a victim. For this reason alone, it is money well spent.
“Our officers work hard all year round to keep us safe and we can support their efforts by taking proactive action to reduce risk and make our communities stronger and more resilient.”
The crime prevention devices, which also include padlocks and signal defender bags, will be distributed by neighbourhood policing teams across the force area and members of the Roads Policing Unit.
The force will also partner with crime prevention charity Crimestoppers to deliver safety messages to the public.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has expressed her shock that young drivers can still purchase illegal and unroadworthy vehicles without compulsory checks following another tragic death.
The County Durham and Darlington PCC met Karen and John Rowlands, from Durham, earlier this week to discuss the tragic death of their son, Andrew, who was killed in a car crash in June 2020 at the age of 18.
The vehicle in which Andrew had been a passenger had been bought by a friend for £100 the night before and was illegal and unroadworthy. The car crashed, and Andrew died from his injuries.
In another incident bearing striking similarities to the case, boy racer Billy Conroy, 17, was jailed for five-and-a-half years in Newcastle last week for causing the death of his friend, 15-year-old Conner Loder, by dangerous driving.
The court had heard Conroy, who had been 16 at the time of the crash and had a history of dangerous driving, had illegally bought the car for £400.
Since Andrew’s death his parents have joined a group of bereaved relatives called the Forget Me Not Families United in demanding urgent measures to slash the high number of young driver deaths in the UK.
Last month, Blaydon and Consett MP Liz Twist tabled a Parliamentary Question concerning Andrew’s death, requesting a governmental debate on the issue to prevent future tragedies.
Joy Allen, who is the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ (APCC) Lead for Drink/Drug Driving, backed the move, and said she was astonished that lessons had not already been learned in the wake of the teenager’s death.
She said: “No family should ever have to face the anguish and devastation faced by Andrew’s parents. Sadly, as we have seen in this recent case, missed opportunities to implement change have cost another young man’s life and this is extremely hard for anyone to bear.
“Any vehicle can be used as a weapon in the wrong hands, and I am frankly astonished that young or underage drivers can still get hold of one without proof of identity, relevant insurance or experience. These are simple administrative checks that surely should be statutory for every potential sale.
“Victims are front and centre to everything I stand for as Commissioner and I will do absolutely everything in my power to support Andrew’s parents, Karen and John, and other campaigns that prevent future deaths and serious injuries on our roads.”
Liz Twist, MP for Blaydon and Consett, called for a debate in parliament earlier this week. She said today: “The tragic events that lead to Andrew Rowlands losing his life were truly heartbreaking, for his family and loved ones, they are fighting to ensure that never happens again.
“Four years on from this horrific collision and we still do not have the necessary regulations in place to avoid the sale of cars to illegal drivers, whether they are banned or underage.
“I want to thank the Rowlands family for taking the time to tell me of their story and share their concerns. I want to work with them, Durham Police and other stakeholders to ensure that we get the changes needed to ensure that this does not happen again.”
In a statement, John and Karen Rowlands, said: “Our only son, Andrew John Rowlands, tragically had his life taken on 18th June 2020 at the hands of an underaged, inexperienced and unlicensed cowardly teenage driver. The car was ruled unroadworthy and a dangerous vehicle.
“As details of this horrific tragedy started to unfold, we as law abiding citizens, were horrified by the fact the driver was able to buy a car less than 24 hours before from social media website Facebook for £100 cash without the need to produce any ID or a driving licence.
“Since that day, we have been campaigning to raise awareness of this loophole, in the hope we could avoid any further tragedies of this nature. Sadly, following this and over the last four years, we have read far too many times now of underaged or disqualified drivers still managing get their hands on a vehicle so easily through a private sale.”
The couple said Conner Lodger’s death could have been avoided had their campaigning been successful.
“The time is well overdue, and the Government must introduce new statute sooner rather than later to prevent similar tragedies from happening and further families being destroyed like ours,” they added.
You can watch Liz Twist MP raising awareness of Andrew Rowland’s case and calling for a debate in government time here: https://youtu.be/95izXR5HzdY.
Today (17 December 2024) the Government has announced that it intends to provide just over £1m to be directed into Neighbourhood Policing across County Durham and Darlington. This is part of the overall funding allocation for Durham Constabulary in the next financial year (2025-2026).
Police and Crime Commissioner for the force area, Joy Allen, has welcomed the additional investment but says that it will not make up for the unfair distribution of police funding that sees the financial disparity between Durham and forces such as Northumbria and Essex widening. However, she is now confident that officer numbers will not be reduced in the coming financial year.
Durham is one of nine forces which still has fewer officers than in 2010 – despite demand rising faster than the average during that time. An increasing local and national population means that the number of officers per head of population has reduced, in turn placing additional strain on the workforce. The Commissioner has long been campaigning for a more equitable funding model to address these issues.
Today’s announcement will see total funding for the Durham force increased by £9.8m (5.8%) for 2025-2026, if the PCC raises the council tax policing precept by the Government’s expectations of £14 for a Band D property.
However, the PCC points out that this increase will have to cover the cost of nationally agreed pay awards and the increase in employers’ national insurance which was announced in the Chancellor’s autumn budget – decisions over which she has no control.
Commissioner Allen said: “Of course I’m pleased that the Government recognises the need to invest in neighbourhood policing. Knowing how much this matters to local residents, I have campaigned for additional investment for a long time.
“However, in the current financial climate, £1m may not go as far as we would all hope. We will have to wait and see what this additional funding covers and how long it lasts, but none-the-less it’s good news for the public.
“I am also pleased that the Government has given some funding towards the cost of pay awards and national insurance rises but remain concerned that they expect PCCs like myself to raise the amount paid by local residents through their council tax to make up any shortfall. In addition, we will not be receiving any grant to replace vital technology or vehicles as they get old and need replacing.
“That’s why I will still be campaigning for a better funding deal for Durham. I will be working closely with the Chief Constable to see in detail what the settlement means for the workforce, but I am confident that we will not see any reduction in officer numbers across Durham and Darlington.”
Twenty handheld radios have been funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour on a local business park.
The County Durham and Darlington PCC provided a grant worth just over £9k for the devices, which will help businesses on Aycliffe Business Park in Newton Aycliffe communicate with each other to warn of suspicious activity.
Committed to supporting businesses and retailers against crime, the PCC has funded the resources as part of a wider plan to expand Business Watch schemes across County Durham.
Further funding is being considered for the provision of CCTV on the Business Park.
In recent months, police have received increasing reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and crime on Aycliffe Business Park, and on the roads leading into the park. These include incidents where stones have been thrown at passing cars and where several off-road bikes have been using the Business Park roads as a mini racetrack.
Due to a lack of communication between individual business premises, security workers and staff have been unable to keep track when the perpetrators move around the park. This means they have often already left the area by the time officers arrive.
In response, Durham Constabulary launched BPACT (Businesses, Police and Communities Together) – a scheme to increase confidence on the Business Park and resolve problems collectively. It also has the aim of encouraging businesses based within the park to invest in the wider community of Newton Aycliffe, supporting charities and community groups that go above and beyond to support residents.
There are currently 20 businesses on the park with 24-hour security. By introducing a radio system, security workers can now talk directly to each other to report and warn of ASB and suspicious activity. It will also allow firms to position their CCTV cameras to secure vital evidence that could assist an investigation or prosecution.
Commissioner Allen said: “These radios are a fantastic addition to Aycliffe Business Park and will not only help businesses to protect themselves from criminals but will also ensure more perpetrators are brought to justice.
“I am already working closely with businesses and retailers to increase confidence and trust across the sector and the launch of BPACT is an extension of my commitment to provide businesses with the practical tools and resources they need to protect their staff and profits from crime.
“Crime costs businesses billions of pounds every year. We cannot underestimate the emotional and psychological impact these losses inflict on their owners, not to mention the damage they wreak on livelihoods and the health of the economy.
“I have promised to listen to our business community, and I am through an array of networks and panels. This engagement work is already improving the way the force and businesses themselves respond to crime. Much more work is needed, however, and I will continue to invest in this priority and give businesses the protection and support they deserve.”
The new security radios will also link to another device in the local police station to enable available officers to attend swiftly in the event of a live incident or crime.
The scheme is designed like the Shop Watch initiative however all security guards will be encouraged to communicate with one another exclusive of the Police, particularly on evenings when incidents occur.
Aycliffe Business Park is spread across 400 hectares and is home to more than 500 diverse and progressive companies, employing a total of around 10,000 people.
Officers discovered the on-site businesses contribute a significant amount of money to charities every year, although none within the community of Newton Aycliffe itself due to a lack of connection between the Business Park Community and the community of Newton Aycliffe.
In response, BPACT will seek to promote investment in local community initiatives that will enable the vast majority of the Business Park’s workforce to benefit.
A new online tool has been launched in partnership with Durham Constabulary, Livin and Durham County Council to help victims of anti-social behaviour in Aycliffe access support to resolve the issue.
The web resource has been developed by Aycliffe IT firm Optimum Skills and provides everything residents and businesses in the town need to know to report anti-social behaviour (ASB) and receive the help they need.
The County Durham and Darlington PCC has prioritised ASB since first being elected in 2021 and has vowed to continue taking a hardline approach to the issue over her next four years in office, exploring further opportunities to boost support for victims.
The new tool follows the launch of ‘Act Now!’ – a countywide interactive resource that guides people through a series of questions to explain who they should contact to report the ASB they are experiencing.
The Aycliffe resource will also provide a direct route of support specific to the town while also updating residents on work underway to improve their safety.
Launching the new facility, Commissioner Allen said: “Anti-social behaviour is not a low-level problem, it destroys community life and can have a damaging impact on confidence and mental health.
“People consistently tell me ASB remains their number one priority, and I have listened. This new tool will direct victims of ASB to the most appropriate agency to report their problem, ensuring they receive support at the earliest opportunity.
“Nobody should feel like they are fighting this issue on their own. The longer ASB continues, the worse the impact on mental wellbeing which is why it is vital we eliminate any confusion on how people can report or access the help they deserve.”
The PCC has been at the forefront of national efforts to improve the response to ASB, jointly funding an array of diversionary projects to educate young people on the consequences of ASB through interactive performances in schools.
Andrew Boyd Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant for Newton Aycliffe, who has been instrumental in the development of the padlet, said; “As a Neighbourhood Team, we are always looking to improve how we work with partners to reduce Anti-Social Behaviour.
“Aycliffe ImPACT has been created to call all partners together to problem solve collectively around community issues when a spike in ASB is noted. We’ve got a commitment from all partners to revisit hotspot areas in the town more rapidly and put measures in place to reduce the problem, making it safer for our residents. The community will also be able to use a QR code to find out where they should report differing types of ASB and find more information on the teams covering their area.
“We’ve also just taken delivery of our very own Drone which will go some way to capturing evidence of many types of ASB, including Off Road Bikes. I’d like to thank Cllrs Eddy Adam, Nev Jones and Tony Stubbs, as well as Livin for providing the funds to make this valuable purchase.”
Since last summer, thousands of extra policing patrols have been taking place across 34 ‘hotspot’ locations as part of the Government’s ‘hotspot’ policing pilot.
Overall, ASB incidents have fallen 11% across County Durham and Darlington but honouring her original Police and Crime Plan commitments, the PCC is determined to invest in further work to prevent young people from engaging in ASB which could escalate to more serious offending if left unchallenged.
