Improvements are to be made to a popular national cycle route thanks to a grant of almost one million pounds. National Cycle Route 1 runs from Dover to the Shetland Isles in Scotland, with its stunning scenery and cultural landmarks attracting cyclists and hikers from around the world. The route also forms part of the North Sea Cycleway which...

The 45th issue of Aycliffe Business – the magazine for Aycliffe Business Park – features an interview with Tekmar Group CEO James Ritchie, written by freelance writer and former Northern Echo editor Peter Barron. Freelance writer Colin Young has also written features on local firms Sparta Security and Teesside Air Supply. The...

Young people across County Durham have been recognised for their commitment to their communities. More than 1,500 youngsters from across the county signed up to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award between April 2019 and 31 March this year. Between them, they gave almost 15,000 hours of their time to the award – volunteering within their...

Crafter’s Companion is welcoming a second presenter to its Crafter’s TV digital network. Derek Marks will join Joe Remblance as a lead presenter to oversee the craft company’s schedule of shows on Crafter’s TV. Derek’s new role will involve familiarising himself with Crafter’s Companion’s catalogue of craft products, guiding...

Durham County Council has offered guidance to businesses and residents as lockdown restrictions begin to ease this week. From Saturday, the government has announced that businesses and venues in the hospitality sector, such as restaurants, pubs, hair salons, and cinemas, will be allowed to reopen to the public if they have appropriate social...

Newton Aycliffe Cricket Club have paid their own tribute to the NHS staff and keyworkers who have worked tirelessly to safeguard the public throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. With the Sports Club due to open on July 4, the Cricket Club have had signage mounted on the scorebox expressing their gratitude. Club chairman Ian Palmer said: “We...

Hair salon Lox of Love is primed and ready to welcome 450 clients a month to their new-look, Covid-ready salon on Aycliffe Business Park. The hair extension specialists and stylists have been busy making their salon fully safe and ready to welcome clients after a near four-month lay-off. Lox of Love staff have undergone a series of online...

There’s still time for County Durham gardeners to win a £30 National Garden Voucher in a council photography competition. The Garden Treasures contest has been organised by Durham County Council and encourages people to share why their beautiful outside spaces are important to them. Residents have until Monday 17 August to submit images...

The publishers of Aycliffe Today’s sister publications have appointed a new sales manager to drive forward growth plans. Chris Garbutt joined Middlesbrough-based Resolution Media and Publishing just before the Covid-19 outbreak. Resolution is co-owned by Aycliffe Today editor Martin Walker and publishes the Tees Business, Tees Life and...

A project to create a history centre for County Durham has been given a £150,000 boost. Durham County Council submitted a planning application last month to restore and refurbish the Grade II-listed Mount Oswald Manor as a home for the county’s archive, heritage and registration services. Now the authority has been told it has been...