By Dave Robson For proof that Optimum Skills’ approach to upskilling works, look no further than the company itself. Now in its 10th year, the Newton Aycliffe firm has forged a reputation for providing high-quality training and apprenticeship programmes. But within its own ranks are several examples of staff who’ve practised what the...

County Durham residents are being invited to apply for a number of committee roles focussed on challenging and shaping local services. Durham County Council is looking for volunteers to serve on its overview and scrutiny committees as non-statutory, non-voting co-optees. Currently, the council has four vacancies for co-optees on three of its...

Year 10 students from Woodham Academy recently completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition. The expedition consisted of a two-day hike with an overnight camp. The students completed their expedition from Barnard Castle and along the River Tees in very hot weather over two days. To be self-sufficient, they had to carry...

By Dave Robson To gain ISO accreditation within just three months speaks volumes for the new packing and fulfilment facility recently opened by Stiller Warehousing and Distribution. But that’s exactly what’s happened after the long-established firm took over and refitted a former engineering building on Grindon Way. The 42,000 sq ft...

Lee Weldon’s weekly round-up from the wicket... Saturday 29th June – NYSD Division 2 Middlesbrough 2nd XI v Newton Aycliffe 1st XI – weather was cool and cloudy Middlesbrough won the toss and chose to bowl first. Newton Aycliffe 1st XI 190 for 9 after 50 overs Terence Smit 71 not out, Joe Teasdale 31 and Tom Dearden...

As the anniversary of Victoria Cross hero Adam Wakenshaw’s remarkable act of bravery approaches, his grandson has spoken of his pride at seeing the anti-tank gun on which he sacrificed his life on display at a new North-East visitor attraction. The Wakenshaw Gun now occupies a prominent position within the free exhibition space at The Story...

By Paul Blythe Under 9’s Reds - Participated in a very well organised tournament hosted by Mount Pleasant Rangers JFC. It was a very enjoyable day in the sun, which was enjoyed by both the players and parents. Under 9’s Reds - Faced Billingham Synthonia in an amazing game of football. The two debutants Matilda and Ollie added class to an...

In a spectacular display of innovation and community spirit, Woodham Academy Sparkies held its final family session of the year, drawing a crowd of over 140 enthusiastic participants. The event, which saw attendees launching water rockets, marked a culmination of a year filled with creativity and scientific exploration. The sunny afternoon...

County Durham is flying the flag for those who serve and have served this Armed Forces Week. Representatives of the armed forces community joined Cllr Joan Nicholson, chair of Durham County Council, and Cllr Robert Potts, the council’s Armed Forces Champion, at County Hall yesterday to raise the Armed Forces Day flag. The flying of the...

Lee Weldon’s weekly round-up from the wicket... Saturday 22nd June – NYSD Division 2 Newton Aycliffe 1st XI v Redcar 1st XI – weather was warm and sunny. Redcar won the toss and chose to bowl first. Newton Aycliffe 1st XI 155 all out after 38.4 overs Chris Palmer 37, Adam Gittins 29 and James Layfield-Carroll 24 Redcar 1st XI...