AWARDS CEREMONY HONOURS YOUNG PEOPLE

Youngsters from across the New Deal for Communities (NDC) area of Hartlepool will be congratulated at a glittering awards ceremony.

The Young Peoples Achievement Awards will highlight the good work of young people who have flied in the face of adversity, improved their way of life, or helped their local community.

Family and friends will gather at Hartlepool Historic Quay on Wednesday 5th December to see more than 55 award winners presented with certificates by Hartlepool United football players.

Those who will receive certificates include five young people who are defined as Not in Education Employment or Training (NEET) that have successfully got their lives back on track, a teenager who has voluntarily started groups for the local community, and a group of Junior Wardens who have raised awareness about crime and the environment in their spare time.

A special achievement award will also go to Lewis, 7 and Ryan Keers, 12 who have been an inspiration to everyone who knows them since they lost their mother to cancer only seven months ago.

Their Grandmother Barbara Swalwell said: “Lewis and Ryan have been incredibly brave and have always tried to smile through difficult times. They are looking forward to the awards ceremony and to meet the other young people.”

Carol Jones from NDC said: “We will be recognising the often unsung young people from the area, some who have reached personal goals, those who have helped their community and others who have showed courage and true strength.

“It is one of the aims of the NDC programme to provide a voice for young people, to raise their aspirations, and to celebrate their achievements. We have funded a variety of projects both for children and young people and have provided play facilities, training opportunities and educational support.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved especially UK Superbowl for their contribution to the event.”

The Government funded NDC programme provides £53million over a ten year period and covers over 4,000 houses in the Central area of Hartlepool.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

4th December 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

HARTLEPOOL IN SPOTLIGHT AT FORUM 

 

Hartlepool has won the bid to host the 2008 National New Deal for Communities Annual Resident Conference in April next year.

With support from the Urban Forum, over 100 people from across the country will come together to discuss a range of regeneration and environmental issues.

It will also provide an opportunity to showcase the work of Hartlepool NDC and the regeneration that has taken place through other agencies across the rest of the town.

NDC Resident Julie Rudge said: “Winning the bid to hold the conference is testament to the hard work of the residents who are involved in the programme on the ground and the many projects that help to regenerate the area.

“We look forward to welcoming people to this event and sharing best practice from across the country.”

NDC Programme Director Malcolm Walker said: “We have been working hard to improve the central area of Hartlepool and are pleased that we will be able to showcase our efforts. It is a great time for the town and another boost before the Tall Ships in 2010.”

It is hoped that the conference will enhance tourism by bringing visitors to the area across the three-day event.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

27th November 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

BID SUCCESS FOR HARTLEPOOL INDUSTRIAL ESTATES

Left to Right: Maurice Brazell, Tony Mills and Mayor Stuart Drummond

Businesses on two of Hartlepool’s largest industrial estates have voted in favour of paying extra on their rates towards the costs of running a new CCTV system.

81% of businesses who voted in the ballot agreed to pay the extra charge which is based on a 2% land value of the business to make it fair for both small and large firms.

The ballot is part of Business Improvement District (BID) proposals that were put forward earlier this year.

BIDs are covered by Government legislation and allow businesses within a specific area to vote on proposals to fund improvements and services over and above what is provided by the local authority.

Every business on the estates will now be charged the extra levy after accepting the BID proposals and being invited to vote in the ballot.

Maurice Brazell, Hartlepool Borough Councils Business Liaison Manager, said: “This is a really positive step for local business and helps them to decide what they want to see. The fact that the CCTV system has been adopted means extra security for employers, their staff, and customers.

“Every entrance and exit on the site will be monitored which will help to ensure that the businesses are kept safe from crime. We have pushed boundaries with the first BID ballot and hope it will lead the way for more in the future.”

Mayor Stuart Drummond, who sits on the BIDs shadow committee said: “We are keen to support existing businesses and attract new investment to the town. The new CCTV system will play a key role in helping us to achieve that.”

A new partnership board will be set up to take the BID process forward comprising of Longhill and Sandgate Business Association, Hartlepool Borough Council, New Deal for Communities and Hartlepool Police.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

20th November 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

BIG BOOST CELEBRATION

Young people learning survival, communication and general skills at Haggerstone Castle

 

A Hartlepool lad joined young people from around the region to celebrate their achievements and the end of the £2.7million Big Boost programme.

The Big Boost celebration event was held at Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light on October 31st and saw over 100 young people that have been supported by the Big Boost Initiative join together in celebration of their achievements and the projects they have run to benefit their local communities. The days compere was ITV Tyne Tees presenter Kim Inglis and entertainment was provided on the day by Big Boost supported projects including a samba band, a rock band, dancers, rappers.

The Big Boost Programme is led by UnLtd on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund's Young People's Fund programme which aims to put young people at the centre of creating, planning and delivering projects. It is delivered with partners The Prince's Trust, Changemakers and The Scarman Trust.

Designed for young people between 14 and 25, who have been long-term unemployed, in care, in trouble with the law or underachieving in school, The Big Boost programme offers up to £5000 to enable them to bring their ideas to life.

The benefits of the programme are financial assistance, ongoing support, guidance and access to specialist advice. The event marks the end of the programme and looks back on the projects that have benefited from the £2.7million pot of money and how this has helped the regions communities.

In the last two years the Big Boost has helped around 700 young people start 388 community projects in the North East and achievement beaten only by London.

One of the Big Boost supported young people who attended the event at the Sunderland Stadium of light was 18 year old Lee Coxon from Hartlepool. Lee is an active volunteer at the Belle Vue Community Centre and is passionate about getting young people into sports and off the streets. He used his Big Boost award to take 5 disadvantaged young people away to Haggerstone Castle for 1 week to develop communication, survival and general skills.

James Turner, Head of Region for The Big Lottery fund said “The Big Boost has been a really great programme that has helped so many young people gain access to funding for projects to benefit their local community. The main benefit of this is that it engages them and gives them something to work on, goals to aim for and at the same time improves their confidence and skills. The young people her today and their successful projects are testament to that.” The Big Boost has come to an end but the four partners Unltd, The Scarman Trust, The Prince’s Trust and Changemakers all have other ways in which they can help young people.”

If you would like more information about UnLtd please contact Lorna Evans on 01429 869265 or e-mail lornaevans@unltd.org.uk or alternatively pop into the NDC office in the Arches on Park Road, Hartlepool.

 

7th November 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

PLAY PRODUCES FRESH ACTING TALENT

 

People across Hartlepool are being asked to support fresh acting talent by watching an original theatre production taking place in the town.

The Starmist Theatre Company is introducing ‘The boy in the attic’ about a group of children who find a boy in the attic of a derelict Victorian house.

Seven young people have been rehearsing for eighteen weeks to get their scripts perfected ready for the one-off performance which is taking place on Thursday 25th October at the Borough Hall on the Headland.

Anna Burnett, 24, from the Starmist Theatre Company said: “This is an opportunity for people to see some fresh talent and the hard work of young people from the town.

“The screenplay is original and has been written by local scriptwriter Michael Crannage and will be a great evening out for all the family.”

The Starmist Theatre Company was developed after a group of people from Respect Counselling and Mentoring Service wanted to use theatre as a way of boosting confidence in young people.

Starmist received £5000 from the National Lottery Big Boost Fund through national charity UnLtd.

Tickets for the production are £3.00 for adults and £2.00 for concessions and can be bought from Stranton Learning Centre or on the door. The production starts at 7.30pm and lasts for approximately one hour.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

 

EXTRA PCSOs FOR THE NEW DEAL FOR COMMUNITIES AREA OF HARTLEPOOL

 

Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) has approved a project that will fund two extra PCSOs who will be dedicated to patrolling the NDC area.

In a move that supports the current neighbourhood policing programme, the PCSOs will provide a flexible resource in the area and will be tasked on a weekly basis with the agreement of the NDC Neighbourhood Manager and the Police Sergeant.

The PCSOs will join the multi-agency team based at the 173 York Road office and will contribute to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, and help to increase reassurance within the community.

NDC Neighbourhood Manager Clare Clark said: “We have done a great deal in making the NDC area a safer place to live and have supported several projects that help to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

“These PCSOs will work closely with the NDC team and the Central neighbourhood policing team to respond to residents priorities at a local level.”

The two year project will provide additional support in the area which runs from Belle Vue to Hart Lane and covers around 4,000 households.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

*************************************************************************

YOUR CHANCE TO NOMINATE EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG PEOPLE!

 

Local residents still have time to praise the hard work of unsung young people after a nomination deadline was extended.

People, community groups, and statutory agencies have until Friday 26th October to nominate youngsters to receive a certificate of achievement at the Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) celebration event taking place in December.

Nominations are being sought for young people who may have gone out of their way for someone else, helped their community, overcome personal barriers and obstacles, or cared for person in need.

Carol Ann Jones from NDC said: “It is our aim to support and encourage young people in the area and provide them with opportunities that can help them to flourish,

“We have extended the deadline so that no young people go unmissed and their hard work is celebrated.”

If you would like to nominate a young person between the ages of 5-18, please contact NDC with information about why you are nominating them and what they have achieved, the only criteria is that the young person lives in the NDC area.

Please send your nominations to Jill Lundrigan, NDC, The Arches, 79 Park Road, Hartlepool, TS26 9HU, or email jlundrigan@ndc-hartlepool.org.uk. Alternatively for more information, please call 894046.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

*************************************************************************

 

1,500 HOMES BENEFIT FROM FREE SECURITY CHECK

Colin Hopkins (right) with Wendy Cooling (second right)

A mother of three is the fifteen hundredth resident to take part in a crime fighting project that helps to secure homes across the centre of Hartlepool.

Wendy Cooling was shocked when she found that thieves had attempted to break into her Wensleydale Street home and had caused damage to the windows at the back of the property.

She was referred by local police to Colin Hopkins from New Deal for Communities (NDC) who arranged for her home to be secured as part of the free Home Security Check.

She said: “I was very concerned about the damage to my property and the attempted break-in but thanks to Colin, I feel much safer.

“I wanted to keep the house secure for my kids and to make them feel safe. It’s great that I’m the 1500th resident, and it just shows how much a project like this is needed.”

Colin Hopkins said: “This project has reached a very important milestone and has helped a great number of residents across the town.

“It is such a simple yet effective project that uses security measures to secure doors and windows.

“There is nothing better than a project that helps to make people feel safer in their homes and I am proud that 1,500 homes have benefited from this.”

Colin also referred Wendy to workers at Victim Support who helped her to understand and come to terms with the attempted break-in.

Free Home Security Checks have been provided across the NDC area for the past four and a half years.

If you would like Colin to visit you, please contact him at the NDC Community Safety Office on 855560.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

 

SINGLE MUM IS 700th EDUCATION GRANT RECIPIENT

Amanda Ward

 

A single mum is the 700th person to benefit from a grant that helps to improve access to education for people living in the New Deal for Communities (NDC) area of Hartlepool.

Amanda Ward always wanted to secure the future of her five year old son Dylan, but was unsure what path to take after years of being a stay-at-home mum.

It wasn’t until she heard about the NDC education and training grant that she considered going back to college to study for a professional career in accounting.

She said: “I never thought in a million years that I would be doing accounting or that I would even go back to college but it has really given me back my identity.

“I feel like I am doing something for me and that I am helping to secure the financial future of my family.

“I really wouldn’t have done this if I hadn’t seen that there was support out there, I would still be sat at home wondering what to do with the rest of my life.”

Amanda received £244 towards course fees and books and has completed an AAT in Accounting and is just starting an Advanced Certificate in Accounting at Hartlepool College of Further Education.

Project Management Officer Jill Lundrigan said: “It is great that we have hit the 700 mark and have helped so many people boost their skills and enhance their future.

“We are aiming to improve the educational ability of local residents and are supporting people to make positive choices for the future.”

The NDC education and training grant is available for people living in the area studying on an accredited course. The maximum grant fund available is £350 per application which can be used for travel expenses, books, and course fees but not at degree level.

For more information on the grant, please contact Jill Lundrigan on 869265.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

*************************************************************************

 

AUDIENCE WITH A FOOTBALL LEGEND

Football fans are being invited to attend an audience with a former European Cup Winner.

Only four tables are left for the sportsman’s dinner with ex Liverpool player and England international Alan Kennedy.

The Belle Vue Centre is hosting the event which takes on Saturday 27th October at 7pm at Mayfield Park on Easington Road in Hartlepool.

Tickets cost just £25 per guest or £250 per table of 10 guests; tickets include a three course meal, raffle, sports memorabilia auction, and a performance by comedian Ven Tracy.

Trevor Robinson from the Belle Vue Centre said:

 “All proceeds from this event go towards local football in the community projects.  We have had a brilliant response but would like to fill the final four tables, we promise a great night for all football enthusiasts.”

Anyone wanting a ticket should contact Trevor on 01429 221832 or Andy Wilson on 07709451535.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

************************************************************************

YOUR CHANCE TO NOMINATE EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG PEOPLE!

Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) is asking for residents, partners, and community groups to nominate the unsung young people from the area.

A celebration event will be held towards the end of the year to congratulate the many dedicated, talented, and hard working youngsters from across the NDC area.

Nominations are being sought for young people who may have gone out of their way for someone else, helped their community, overcome personal barriers and obstacles, or cared for person in need.

NDC Programme Director Malcolm Walker said: “We felt that it was important to celebrate the excellent work of young people and highlight some of the things that they have done over the past year.

“As there are so many young people involved in good work, every person who is nominated will receive a certificate of achievement.

“We also look forward to inviting a number of nominees to our celebration event to receive their certificate in person.”

If you would like to nominate a young person between the ages of 5-18, please contact NDC with information about why you are nominating them and what they have achieved, the only criteria is that the young person lives in the NDC area.

The deadline for nominations is Friday October 19th, please send them to Jill Lundrigan, New Deal for Communities, The Arches, 79 Park Road, Hartlepool, TS26 9HU.

Or email jlundrigan@ndc-hartlepool.org.uk.  Alternatively for more information, please call 894046 .

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

17th September 2007

*************************************************************************

CRIME FIGHTING YOUNGSTERS MEET THEIR FOOTBALLING HEROES

Crime-fighting youngsters were applauded for their hard work across Hartlepool when they came face-to-face with their footballing heroes.

The NDC Junior Wardens visited Hartlepool United players to tell them about their campaign to raise awareness of walk-in burglary in the town.

The Wardens, who are aged between 9 and 11, have been visiting shopping centres, supermarkets, and other venues over the past twelve months in a bid to tell residents about the importance of locking their doors and windows.

With the campaign aim of delivering messages to everyone across the town, the Wardens wanted to visit the Hartlepool United players and tell them about walk-in burglary.

Neighbourhood Development Worker Irene Cross said: “These young people have been giving up their spare time to promote this message and have been involved in lots of positive work in the town.

“They were really excited to meet the players who were really welcoming; I would like to thank Hartlepool United for giving the Junior Wardens the opportunity to meet them.”

Hartlepool United Manager Danny Wilson said: “It was great to have the Junior Wardens come and visit the players at our training ground.

“I know the lads appreciated them giving up their time to visit us so I’d like to thank them for that.

“They’re spreading the word very successfully in the region and it’s terrific to see them doing such good work.”

The Junior Wardens will be moving onto another project to raise awareness about community safety issues.

Their campaign was also launched with help from the Safer Hartlepool Partnership.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

3rd September 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

GREEN-FINGERED YOUNGSTERS HELP TO SPRUCE UP AREA

 

Green-fingered youngsters from a Hartlepool based youth cafe are helping to spruce up a conservation area thanks to the help of local businesses.

Young people from Café 177 visited Tanfield Nursery to look at the types of plants that can be used in Stranton Gardens as part of the regeneration of the area.

As the gardens are within a conservation area, any plants that are used need to have a Victorian theme and with this in mind, the young people have been using the Internet to research possible design ideas.

Local company Birotex, who are based on the Longhill and Sandgate Industrial Estate, have donated tools for the young people to use for the planting.

Gary Wilkinson from Birotex said: “I’m pleased to see the tools being used to help young people learn and develop new skills. I am sure that the gardens will look great with their help.”

Julia Pinchen from NDC said: “It’s great to see local businesses supporting young people. Birotex has supplied some great gardening tools for the project and Tanfield Nursery are providing advice and support to the young lads to help them design the planting scheme.”

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

CIRCUS SKILLS AT CAFÉ 177

Mini Mansell with children from Café177

Youngsters at Café 177 took part in some clowning around when the experts from the big top came to town.

Around 30 young people were involved in a circus skills workshop led by circus entertainer Mini Mansell and were taught things such as juggling, Diablo, plate spinning, stilt walking, and using a unicycle.

The circus skills help to teach confidence, hand eye co-ordination, and discipline.

Lisa Powton from Café 177 said: “The circus skills are just part of a large programme of activities taking place throughout the summer holidays.

“We have had a great response to some of the fun things on offer and would like to see more children and young people in the Café over the summer.”

Other activities taking place include arts and crafts, face painting, computers, table football, henna tattoos, games and tournaments, cooking, healthy eating, pool and table tennis.

The Café is open Monday to Friday between 10am until 12noon for 5 to 9 year olds and 1pm until 4pm for 10 years and above.

For more information, please contact Lisa at the Café, based at 177 York Road, Hartlepool on 01429 862177.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

17th August 2007

*************************************************************************

BRINGING THE SUN OUT FROM HIDING

The Stranton Centre in Hartlepool is trying to bring the sun out from hiding by hosting a fun packed summer fair.

On Saturday 18th August between 1.30pm and 4.30pm there will be bouncy castles, soft play, tombola’s, raffles, face painting, craft stalls, and a car boot sale.

Pam Cairns from the Stranton Centre said: “We have got plenty of activities for all the family and stalls where people can grab a bargain.

“Come and help us to get the sun out from hiding and celebrate the summer holidays.”

There is an opportunity for people to have their own stall or car boot table and the cost is £5.

Refreshments are also available on the day including a chocolate fountain and tea and coffee.

For more information, please contact Pam Cairns on 231329.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

13th August 2007

 

*************************************************************************

GRAFFITI CLASS AT CAFÉ 177

 

 

Children from Hartlepool got creative at a youth group in Café 177, in York Road.  The youngsters, aged from five to sixteen, got the chance to try their hand at graffiti with the help of a local graffiti artist.

Lisa Powton, youth worker for Café 177, said: “It was a good thing for them to learn.  She added:” It’s all funded by the New Deal for Communities and last week we had a magician come in and he showed them how to do tricks.

“They were all spinning plates; it’s a great way to keep them entertained over the holidays.” Café 177 also held a Zoolab event where children got to handle snakes and creepy crawlies.

The children come to the youth groups from the Stranton and Lynnfield areas to enjoy the free summer activities.

9th August 2007

*************************************************************************

 

SITE HANDOVER MOVES REGENERATION SCHEME FORWARD

 

L to R Back row - Alex Ross, Malcolm Walker

L to R Front row - Steve Jackson, Maurice Brazell

 

Hartlepool Revival has officially signed over the redevelopment of two major regeneration sites to award winning housing provider, Yuill Homes.

The handover marks the next step forward in the completion of a multi-million pound housing regeneration initiative that will replace older terraced housing with high specification family homes.

After intensive consultations in 2001, local residents voted for the demolition of over 300 homes in the Mildred and Mayfair Street areas and documented their views for the future in a Community Housing Plan.

Hartlepool Revival and Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) worked with residents to successfully acquire of 335 out of 347 properties by agreement.

The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Ruth Kelly gave the go-ahead for compulsory purchase orders - which were applied for by Hartlepool Borough Council - on the remaining twelve properties in September last year, with the sites now ready for redevelopment.  

Maurice Brazell, Hartlepool Revival board chairman, said: “This scheme will breathe new life into an area that has experienced the long-term problem of housing market decline.

“By handing over the site, we are working towards the vision that residents had in 2001, a vision which is shared by Hartlepool Revival, Hartlepool New Deal for Communities, and Yuill Homes.”

Alexandra Ross, project manager for Hartlepool Revival, said: “We will continue to work will Yuill Homes throughout this development to ensure that residents’ wishes are followed through the development contract.”

Steve Jackson, head of partnership development for Yuill Homes, said: “The handover of the site to Yuill Homes signals an exciting new phase of this major regeneration project and Hartlepool residents will begin to witness the tangible results of their hard work and determination to revitalise their neighbourhood.

“As smart new homes begin to take shape and residents begin to move in, thriving new communities will be created, an entire area will be transformed and the benefits will be felt across the whole town.”

Demolition of sites one and two will take place in May with the first homes available for purchase by the end of 2007.

   

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

 

PARK PLAN UNDERWAY

 

Thornton Street Park Design

 

TWO local councillors are helping to make way for a park that will breathe new life into a once rundown Hartlepool street.

Stranton Ward Councillors, Pamela Hargreaves and Robbie Payne will remove bricks on the Thornton Street development which will see twenty properties on the north side of the street replaced by a linear park.

During initial consultation in 2004, residents from the area proposed adding some open space to the street, alongside other environmental improvements.

Working with residents, Hartlepool Revival successfully acquired the properties to make way for the park, which includes a perimeter wall and railings, new gates, trees, planting, and a seating area.

Councillor Hargreaves said: “I hope that residents enjoy the park and I will certainly be going down Thornton Street to watch it mature and develop. I hope it that residents of all ages get involved in making it a truly ‘community’ park.”

Councillor Payne said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local residents and the local area and will breathe new life into the community. The park has received a great amount of support from residents and I hope that it will be enjoyed by people from all over the town for many years to come.”

Simon Jones from Encia Demolition Ltd, the company responsible for the demolition and site clearance, said: “We are naturally delighted to be involved in such a worthwhile project and residents can rest assured that Encia Demolition will use all its skill and expertise to get the job done as efficiently and sensitively as possible.

“We look forward to seeing this piece of land being brought back to life”

60,000 bricks are being recycled from the Thornton Street properties and will be used to form the boundary walls of the park.

It is anticipated that the park will be completed towards the end of the year.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

NEW LINEAR PARK ON THORNTON STREET

Work has begun on an exciting project to create a Victorian Linear Park on the North side of Thornton Street in Hartlepool’s town centre.

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Planning Committee yesterday gave the thumbs up to the park, which was voted for by local residents through the New Deal for Communities, Community Housing Plan.

Local residents have been working with Hartlepool Revival over the past twelve months to acquire the twenty properties required for the new park. 

The design has been created by landscape architects - Anthony Walker & Partners working closely with residents through consultation events, interactive design and site visits, to ensure that the outcome is a green space that will be used and respected by local people.

The park design will reduce traffic in the area and make three streets cul-de-sac’s (Mitchell, Alderson & Stotfold Street) and two Streets one-way (Thornton and Johnson Street)

Preparations are underway to demolish the twenty buildings which will start on Monday 5th March 2007 and last approximately twelve weeks.

Hartlepool Revival Project Manager, Alexandra Ross, said: “The new park is an exciting project for the town centre and will make a considerable visual impact.  We have enjoyed working closely with local residents in the area over the past twelve months to ensure that the park design works for local people."

“We are committed to continue working with residents to regenerate the whole of the New Deal for Communities area and hope that people get enjoyment from the park for many years to come.”

Consideration is being given to protect the environment through the project. 60,000 bricks from demolition properties in the street are being cleaned and used to make the boundary walls of the park in keeping with the characteristics of the adjacent properties.

It is anticipated that the park will be completed around October 2007.

Anyone requiring further information should contact Hartlepool Revival on 01429 894046.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

*************************************************************************

 

JUNIOR WARDENS LAUNCH INITIATIVE

 

 

A group of young people are so concerned that Hartlepool residents are leaving their doors and windows unlocked that they launched a town-wide campaign.

The New Deal for Communities (NDC) Junior Wardens highlighted the problems caused by walk-in burglary in the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre on Thursday 22nd February.

They handed out information postcards that gave tips on what can be done to prevent walk-in burglaries and why residents should always lock their windows and doors.

Irene Cross, Neighbourhood Development Officer, said: “The Junior Wardens have worked extremely hard on this campaign and wanted to help keep the town a safer place by making sure local residents got the correct advice.

“Leaving a door or window open is asking for trouble, even if you are in the house, it only takes seconds for a thief to steal valuable possessions.”

The initiative was supported by Italian coffee specialists, Café Lucca, based on Park Road, who provided free refreshments for the Junior Wardens after the campaign launch.

Manager, Rebecca Hewitt, said: “We wanted to give something back to the young people as a reward for all the effort that they have put into the campaign.”

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

*************************************************************************

JUNIOR WARDENS AWARDED

 

A group of young people are to be presented with certificates to highlight their commitment to a walk-in burglary campaign.

The New Deal for Communities (NDC) Junior Wardens are about to launch the Junior Wardens Home Safety Campaign which aims to highlight the importance of locking doors and windows.

They will be taking part in several activities in the coming months to make residents aware of walk-in burglary.

Irene Cross, Neighbourhood Development Officer, said: “These young people are committed to making their town a better place to live. They take pride in their local community, and are keen to learn about environmental issues, healthy eating and good citizenship.”

Two Junior Wardens, Simone Smith and Jessica Sutton, both aged 11 have designed logos which will be placed on the campaign material. They, alongside the six other Junior Wardens, will be presented with certificates by Detective Chief Inspector Gordon Lang of Cleveland Police.

He said: “It is great to see young people making such a positive contribution to their community. There has been a great deal of hard work gone in to all of the logos and the standard was very high. We will use this hard work very positively over the coming months in the continuing battle against walk-in burglary.”

For more information on the initiative – which is being run in conjunction with the Safer Hartlepool Partnership - or the Junior Wardens, please contact Irene on 855560.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

 

28th Feb 2007

 

*************************************************************************

STRANTON FC AIM FOR GRASSROOTS BOOST

Stranton FC

 

Hartlepool youngsters are hoping to boost the profile of grassroots football thanks to the initial success of their team.

Stranton FC under 8’s football club is going from strength to strength after receiving FA Charter Standard Accreditation and various grants to help them establish the team.

Although they are yet to reach a win in the Teesside Junior Football Alliance, Club Secretary Simon Mincher is optimistic about their future thanks to the dedication from the coaching team and the youngsters at their twice-weekly training sessions.

He said: “The kids get lots of enjoyment by feeling that they are part of a team. It also provides a great opportunity for the parents to get involved by attending training sessions and team matches.

“The club would like to thank parents, volunteers, the Stranton Centre, and Hartlepool Sports Development for all their support with the team.”

“It is important to remember that this venture is not only the beginning of a new team but also the start of a new football club that we hope will be around for years to come.

“The coaches Stephen Sanderson and Kevin Darke have done a tremendous job to date and although results have not been the best, we are confident that the team’s fortunes will change in the near future.”

HBC Football Development Officer, David Burns, said: “The club has all the correct structure and procedures off the field with their recent award. They just need to get it right on the pitch, but it’s only a matter of time. Good luck to all the players, coaches and parents and everyone connected with the club.

Stranton FC are looking for members for the new under 8’s team which will start in the spring, they are also seeking sponsorship from local businesses.

Anyone wanting more information on Stranton FC should contact the Stranton Centre on 231329. Potential sponsors should contact Stephen Sanderson on 07747347245 or Simon Mincher on 07909642320

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

6th February 2007

 

*************************************************************************

 

BID CONCEPT FOR HARTLEPOOL

 

Businesses on Hartlepool’s Longhill and Sandgate Industrial Estates are undertaking the revolutionary Business Improvement District (BID) concept which will see them lead on and develop their own area improvement plans.

BIDs are covered by government legislation and allow businesses within a selected area to vote on proposals to fund improvements and services over and above what is provided by the local authority.

Businesses vote on the BID proposal and decide whether to pay a levy in order to fund the proposed improvements. If the vote is 51% in votes and rateable land value, all businesses must pay the agreed levy based on their rateable land value and regardless of their voting decision.

Tony Mills, Chair of the Business Association, said: “The Business Association represents every organisation on Longhill and Sandgate and we have worked extremely hard to be able to put the BID concept in place.

“It is an extremely fair system which will increase investment and footfall to the area.”

If successful, the first BID proposal for Hartlepool will allow the long-term maintenance and monitoring of site wide CCTV systems which are being funded in part by a grant from Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC).

Maurice Brazell, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Business Liaison Manager for Longhill and Sandgate, said: “The BID system gives the small guy a voice and allows everyone on the estate to have their say on what is best for them.

“Each accepted proposal will last for up to five years until it is voted on again. BIDs have proved extremely successful in other areas of the country and we hope that it will be just as successful in Hartlepool.

“If the first BID proposal voted in favour, the CCTV system will ensure that all highways and footpaths are monitored on the Estates and it will be difficult to get onsite or offsite unseen.”

For more information, please contact Maurice Brazell on 523511.

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

25th January 2007 

 

**************************************************************************

LIFE OF COMMUNITY PIONEER IS HONOURED IN STREET NAMING

Leo Ryan

The life of a community pioneer will be remembered for years to come after it was announced that a street in the Hartlepool area he loved so much will be given his name.

Leo Ryan, 75, provided a voice for local residents through the Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) programme until he passed away two years ago.

He had lived in the town for over fifty years and was instrumental in the Community Housing Plan - a resident led regeneration initiative which sees older terraced housing in the area being replaced by quality new build properties.

Leo’s memory is being honoured as his widow Millie Ryan lays a commemorative stone on the new Ryan Court development, which will hold 13 Endeavour Housing Association bungalows built by Yuill Homes.

Commenting on the development, Mrs Ryan said: “I am extremely proud that Leo will be remembered in this way. He was very passionate about the area and felt that the Community Housing Plan would bring a positive change for local residents.

“I hope that once the new bungalows are completed, people will look upon Ryan Court and remember the hard work that Leo gave as a volunteer in the town.”

Ryan Court will replace what is known currently as Angus Street. The demolition of Angus Street began in September to make way for the bungalows, four of which are wheelchair adapted.

Charlie Hughes, Chief Executive of Endeavour Housing Association, said: “None of this would have happened without the engagement of the community, so it is also an appropriate time to remember Leo Ryan.

“Leo cared about people in this community deeply and had the vision and courage to see they were decisions to be taken. Leo’s contribution to ensuring that right decisions were taken and progress made was enormous.”

Over 347 properties have been successfully acquired by Hartlepool Revival on two sites in the central area of the town. The Ryan Court development is the next step in plans by Yuill Homes to build a range of high specification family homes on both sites.

Steve Jackson, Head of Partnership Development at Yuill Homes, added: “Considering the valuable part Leo played in bringing about this crucial redevelopment of the town, it seems only right that his memory is treasured and this is a fitting tribute.

 

News item issued by Kimberley Hammond, PR & Communications, Avanticom, 01429 869265

22nd January 2007

******************************************************************************