Community news round-up

Riding Mill
Pam Pryor
I was so impressed to see photographs of the latest batches of wash bags and scrubs made by Janet Padgett, Judy Wilthew and Mary Ryder assisting the group – North East England Sewing for the Front Line. The team has sufficient fabric for the present time. However if anyone has any spare bias binding or Velcro, this is being collected at the parish hall.
Another busy Riding Mill volunteer is Linda Humble who embarked on her own challenge for the month of May, raising money on her daily dog walk for Melanoma Focus and SKCIN, two small charities involved in the prevention, detection and cure of melanoma and skin cancer. May is melanoma awareness month and the challenge is 100 miles in May. If you can support Linda, link to the Virgin money giving page https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=LindaLee11&pageUrl=1 
Sadly, plans for marking VE Day on Friday 8 May at the parish hall have had to be abandoned. A two-minutes silence will take place at 11am, which will be broadcast on the BBC. ‘The Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2’ is scheduled for 3 pm, with people across the country encouraged to stand up and raise a glass while saying the following toast: “To those who gave so much, we thank you.” Organisers are also encouraging Britons to decorate their home in red, white and blue.
Remember – if you have any queries or need help, ring the Village Assistance Number 07935 271 922 between 10 am and 3 pm.
Redesdale
Emma Anderson
THE Rev Elaine Ryder and the grounds maintenance volunteers at St. Cuthbert’s, Elsdon, are extremely grateful to have received grants from the Green Rigg Wind Farm and the Ray Wind Funds, both arranged through Community Foundation Awards Scheme. The grants have enabled the team to purchase a new ride-on mower and a strimmer to help with their work. The church was also grateful to receive a conventional lawnmower donated by Landmarc (Otterburn Training Area). This will be used to cut the grass in areas that are either too large for the strimmer or too small for the ride-on mower, as well as providing back-up to the other equipment. The wind farm grants were awarded to support the ongoing wildflower project in the churchyard at St Cuthbert’s, and the separate cemetery behind the Pele Tower. The church grounds have benefited from hundreds of years of chemical-free grass and plant growth. The project hopes to encourage the growth of native wildflowers and grasses and that these, in turn, will provide habitats for the pollinating insects, birds and other wildlife which have been in steep decline in recent years.
THE organisers of Elsdon Fête, planned to take place on summer bank holiday Monday, August 31, have reluctantly decided to cancel the event due to the ongoing coronavirus emergency.
Matfen
Jean Conteh
Before the lockdown, Friday, May 8 was designated a special bank holiday to commemorate VE Day, 75 years ago in 1945. St Mary’s Churchyard in Stamfordham will be the focus of the local celebration, but of course no one can physically be there. Between 2.45 and 3.05 pm, bugler James Freeman-Griffith and piper David Jones will be playing near the war graves. They will be filmed, from a safe distance, and the film transmitted live via the ‘Stamfordham Matters and COVID Support’ Facebook Page. Following this, there will be the Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2, and then David will pipe through Stamfordham village from the churchyard to Bridge End, which will take 8-9 minutes. While the pipes are playing, residents are asked to stand at their front doors if they wish to.
On Sunday, May 10 at 11am, The ‘Tribute to the Millions’ will be read by Rev. Rachel Scheffer, and again be filmed from a safe distance and transmitted live via the ‘Stamfordham Matters and COVID Support’ Facebook Page. The organisers are hoping that everyone will find their own ways to feel involved in these celebrations, but want to be sure that there are no gatherings at the churchyard and that everyone keeps to the safe distancing guidelines.
It was cheering to hear the clapping and church bells ringing for the NHS and all key workers on Thursday evening in Matfen – we will get through the lockdown, together.
Acomb
Julie Foster
Recently, leaflets have gone out to all households in the parish to update on Acomb’s Volunteer Support Network. FareShare produce is being delivered weekly along with food parcels periodically. These are being delivered to our older residents and those identified as requiring. Just ask your named volunteer, (name and contact number on your leaflet), if you  want to know how to be included.
There’s a project taking place in Acomb and anyone who’s interested is invited to take part. The idea is to knit or crochet flowers in rainbow colours and they will be put on the gate and railings of the Methodist Chapel with thoughts and prayers of family and friends who we can’t meet with or visit during this difficult time. Hopefully it will give a purpose and a feeling of doing something together, as well as encouragement to people passing. Patterns can be supplied if needed and arrangements can be made for collection of flowers. Contact Glenis for further information on glenisgoundry@yahoo.com
Corbridge
David Walton
Tomorrow, the whole country was to have celebrated VE Day 75 when thousands of people across the land took to the streets to enjoy Victory in Europe Day. Little archive history exists as to what went on in Corbridge except services of thanksgiving at services St Andrew’s Church and the Methodist Church. And of course the street parties took place. Sadly, due to Covid-19, events to celebrate the day have been cancelled. However, Corbridge British Legion have managed to put Union Flags up at the Lych Gate to mark the occasion.
Next week’s events in Corbridge have been cancelled due to the pandemic. However, some shops are starting to partly reopen again. Grants the Bakers, the Corbridge Larder and the cafe in Middle Street are operating a one customer in and one out operation and Stobos are requesting telephone orders, only as speculation as how the Government aims to lift the Lockdown.
St Andrew’s Church continues the streaming services on You Tube every Sunday morning at 10am, I have also been informed that Corbridge Parish Council is to hold its annual meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, 20 May at 7pm if and residents have any questions please contact the council on or before May 18.
Humshaugh
Herbie Newell
A massive “thank you” this week to all those who are helping us through these difficult times including our village shop volunteers, the Covid-19 Response Team and St Peter’s Church community, and those who have set-up competitions, activities and displays outside their houses to amuse us.  Also, many thanks to the leaders of our performing arts groups, the Crown Players and North Tyne Voices, who have moved online to brighten up our lives with creative events.
In addition to voluntary activities, Humshaugh is indebted to those who are continuing to do their job by providing public services and as key workers: staff at Humshaugh First School and Humshaugh and Wark Medical Group, our refuse collectors, domiciliary care staff, postal and delivery service workers, and all those involved in farming, food production and supply.
The Humshaugh COVID-19 Response helpline – 07469 796103 – is still open. Please don’t hesitate to call.
With the COVID lockdown, more people are at home and dogs are benefiting from extra exercise.  A polite reminder that dog owners must pick up all dog mess and dispose of it at home or in the bins at the village hall or by the phone box.
Very many thanks again to all those who have completed the Humshaugh Carbon Footprint Survey, which is now closed.  Over 100 households have responded and data analysis is ongoing.
Virtual church services are again available this coming weekend.  For details please go to www.achurchnearyou.com/16162 or the St Peter’s Facebook page @HumshaughChurch.
Hexhamshire
Lynda White
If you require any help in these difficult times during lockdown with shopping posting mail or collecting prescriptions do not hesitate to contact Hexhamshire Parish Council. Volunteers are offering a collection and delivery service of prescriptions for residents of the Shire. Tesco, Boots, Lloyds and Corbridge Health Centre have all agreed to support the collection service. The first prescription run took place last week and it will run every Thursday until further notice. If you would like help or more information call 07836580902 or email hexhamshirepc@gmail.com

Ovingham & Ovington
Malcolm Cairns
Ovingham is planning to hold it’s first ever scarecrow competition. Adults and children can put their skills to the test, to design and make their personal scarecrow. You can then put them on display in your garden, front of house or maybe sited around the village. The theme will be “Stay safe, stay home”. Judging will be sometime in June probably just before the garden competition.
It seems that some people are taking advantage of the current situation by stealing from households in the area. Keep your garden gates and sheds locked. Certain individuals, possibly posing as scrap collectors have stolen garden furniture and even a barbecue. It is worth noting that at the moment no scrap yards are open, so there should be no scrap men doing the rounds. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles or persons to the police.
The parish council have been made aware of reports of giant hogweed growing on the river banks. Give these plants a wide berth as they can cause irritation and blistering if touched. They are especially harmful to children.
In tonight’s applause at 8pm can we also show our appreciation for our posties, bus drivers, delivery drivers with groceries and parcels and all other essential workers. We thank you.
Newbrough
Rob Tindall
If you go down to the woods today... you’ll definitely get a big surprise. There seems to have been an explosion of painted pebbles hiding throughout Crow Wood and the surrounding areas of Newbrough. Who started this adventure? It was an idea of Tom Gradwell and his granddaughter Caitlin to help keep their spirits up whilst her brave brother Archie had his heart surgery. During their daily walks they collected stones, decorated them and hid them around Crow Wood. Just on the steps from Allerwash Mill two rocks appeared with the words ‘hide pebbles and seek them’, a game to keep adults and children entertained on their daily walk. Since they started this, many more villagers have added to the collection and it is a great socially-distanced game to play! Well done Caitlin. She has created a rainbow of pebbles to brighten lockdown during Covid-19. You could see how many you could find and hide on your next stroll through Newbrough and give your daily exercise some variety.
I read with envy other correspondents’ tales of returning swallows and martins. Usually the wires and roofs from South View to Frankham Cottages are peppered with the twittering birds; this year – none. I wonder what disaster has struck our flock?
I was given an exercise to identify folk in the area who are going the extra mile during the current crisis and there are many, but what really came across was the community spirit, with people doing lots of little caring deeds.
Bellingham
Birtley Nail
THERE is light at the end of the tunnel for Karbon Homes tenants in Bellingham  whose homes have been in a latticework lockdown for several weeks. The social landlord started roof replacement work in Hillside and Reenes Way in February, but all works were suspended as a result of the national  Covid-19 lockdown. This has left some tenants unable to open their windows because of the  criss-crossing metal poles encasing their homes. However, a Karbon spokesman said last week: “We started to talk to our external contractors this week, aiming to take scaffolding down on completed roofs and restarting works on properties still with work left to be done. We’re waiting for information from the contractors on when this can happen, and of course we will have revised risk assessments to make sure they are adhering to current government guidance. Sorry we can’t be more specific on timings yet, but hopefully it won’t be long before the scaffolding is removed on homes where work is complete.”
THE Friday night virtual quiz laid on by Bellingham Parish Council for the duration of the Covid-19 lockdown has gone international. By the miracles of technology, participants from Canada were among those taking part in last week’s fun-filled hour of fascinating facts pulled together by quiz meisters Martin and Ben Dickson-Green. There are 60 questions, for which there are no prizes, but it is a great way to get away from the television! Don’t miss tonight’s session on the parish council Facebook page from 7pm.
Slaley
Stella Douglas
Lovely to see that the Sir James Knott Trust has provided a grant of £10k for Slaley Commemoration Hall’s £100k for 100 years appeal. This will go towards phase two of the renovation. Despite work not being able to start just yet, it will do in time and the hall committee is still looking for funding. If you can help, visit the parish website and look for the village hall page to see how to contribute.
Many meetings which would normally take place at the village hall are still happening – on the internet. The parish council and other organisations are going about business still, although AGM’s which should be open to the full community are not happening because some folk do not have access to the internet.
If you have a problem, the Slaley Pyramid of Care is working to help: call Olwen on 676852 and the parish council can be contacted on 673388 (Pat).
Slaley Community Shop opens 9am until noon and has proved to be a lifeline for Slaley folk. The Rose and Crown started take-out meals again from May 1 and it is open 5pm-7.30pm except on Sunday; call 673996 to order. The church is ‘open’ through www.facebook.com/moorlandgroup. You don’t need to join Facebook. Call Helen on 676852 if you need help.
Allen Valleys
Robert Philipson
Up here on the hills with lambing coming to a close, lapwing chicks hatching out and the annual battle by the adult birds to protect their chicks from the crows and the gulls life does not seem much different to other years and a reminder that nature is oblivious of the human pandemic. It was only a trip into Allendale to have a tractor puncture repaired brought me into the real life. The emptiness in the village with pubs, tea rooms and the Forge closed – only the orderly queue for the co-op and a few people out for their daily walk evidence of any activity.
It is no surprise that the committee have taken the decision to cancel the Allendale Agricultural Show due to have taken place on August 15.
It is still not quite summer so it is an opportunity to place an order with the Allen Valleys oil buying co-operative, particularly with the prices as low. The deadline is noon on Tuesday, May 12, for a delivery towards the end of May. Telephone (01434) 683334 or email oilorderfawside@gmail.com
Please send any contributions for these notes to robert.philipson@btconnect.com or telephone (01434) 685266 and the deadline is Sunday 6pm
Wark
Peter Samsom
This Friday we celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day in the most peculiar of circumstances. You may well be having a party at home, but I’ve been asked to make you aware of a few things organised by and through the Royal British Legion (RBL). Firstly at 11am Peter Dover will be parading the Banner of the Wark and District RBL at the War Memorial and observe a two minute silence, not only in recognition of the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation, but also to reflect on the devastating impact Covid-19 has had on so many lives across the world. If anyone wishes to attend they are welcome to do so, observing the appropriate 2m physical distancing. At 3pm Peter will parade the banner outside his home on Westacres and everyone in the village is encouraged to stand outside their house and applaud, and perhaps raise a glass, in memory of VE day. Nationally the RBL will live stream a programme on their website, www.rbl.org.uk/VEday75, sharing stories and memories from those who served in the Second World War. 
Finally a quick mention of a few free ‘grow your own veg’ kits which will be available through the Northumberland Warm Hub which the town hall is part of. These are primarily aimed at people who are new you growing veg and the town hall hopes to have six. Currently the suggestion is that they’ll be available from the hall on a first come first served basis. Details of pick up to follow.
Prudhoe
Ian Warburton
At the time of writing, along with other similar facilities in Northumberland, the Waste Recovery Centre at West Wylam was scheduled to reopen to Northumberland residents on Monday, 4 May. It will be open from 8am to 6pm, seven days per week. This will, however, be a more restricted service than can usually be offered. Full details about restrictions can be found on Northumberland County Council’s website, www.northumberland.gov.uk where you can follow the links to Household Waste Recovery Centre.
Christian Aid Week, which runs from Sunday, 10 to Saturday, May 16 will take place online this year and in Prudhoe, as elsewhere, there will be no door-to-door collections. Please see the website caweek.org/virtualresources
The Leaders Council of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is currently in the process of talking to leadership figures from across the nation in an attempt to understand this universal trait and what it means in Great Britain and Northern Ireland today. Anthony Finn from Ginevra, which has a very successful shop in Prudhoe, was invited on to an episode of the podcast, along with England footballer and 1966 World Cup hat-trick goal scorer Sir Geoff Hurst. Host Matthew O’Neill asked them a series of questions about leadership and the role which it has played in their careers to date. The podcast can be heard on: https://youtu.be/CPsZYwEt6B0. You can discover more about Anthony Finn on http://www.leaderscouncil.co.uk/members.anthony-finn
Horsley
Maurice Holliday
Seventy five years ago a street party was held at Horsley Wood Cottages to celebrate VE Day. Home-made bunting decorated the street. Some current Horsley residents lived at the west end of Newcastle on VE Day where they also had street parties. Today some of our village residents are celebrating in their own homes and decorating windows and gardens with bunting.
Please be aware that all the rights of way leading from the village across open fields have cattle in them with very young calves. The cows are particularly protective of their young and care needs to be taken when crossing the fields.
NCC have filled in pot holes in the road that approaches the village from the west.
Many thanks to the chemists at Wylam who have been able to deliver prescriptions to vulnerable people during the current crisis.
The dog bins that had been placed on signposts at either end of the village will not be replaced. As an alternative the parish council intends to use multi-purpose bins instead. Evidently the previous dog bins along with their contents and one of the fallen posts had been stolen. The parish council and not NCC has to pay for dog bins.
All events and club meetings in Horsley during the month of May have been cancelled. The AGM of Horsley PC which was due to be held on May 18 will not be held in the WI hall. Councillors are using an internet package called Zoom from their own homes. If any member of the parish would like to connect to this meeting please contact parishclerk@horsleyvillage.org.uk. Alternatively members of the public can send questions via e mail to the same address.
Heddon
John Stewart
The reduction in activity on our paths and roads has had a great beneficial impact in the reduction in rubbish which influences the environment which is a regular occurrence on the main roads leading into the village. Let hope the reduction of waste maintains after the lockdown restrictions are relaxed!  
A small team of sewers and knitters in the village are continually being active creating protective resources for the National Health Service and care homes liaising with a local co-ordinator. An amazing number of scrub bags and gowns have been delivered to the local hospitals and care homes which are much needed and required. A massive thank you to everyone who has supported this project. If you are wishing to get involved, please contact me on 07713646623 and I will provide you with the relevant details.
Heddon United Football Clubs season may have come to an end, but the ground development of Victrix Park is coming along nicely, and the club can reassure that the social distancing guidelines are being strictly adhered to. In addition to the expansion of the new ground, an enormous well done and congratulation to the club’s youngster Dylan who provided us with an inspiring Covid-19 poem which was printed in last week’s edition. The poem certainly keeps our spirits high and alive!  
Tomorrow, residents within the parish will celebrate and commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day. Many residents will mark the occasion with a ‘Stay At Home Street Party’ decorating their properties red, white and blue and enjoying a picnic in their gardens between noon and 2pm. 
Finally, thank you to everyone for your continued efforts through this pandemic by continuing to stay safe, positive and active.