The Northern landscape is characterised by stone, whether in the crags of the ‘Whin sill’ along the ancient Roman frontier or in the stone walls that define farmlands across the Pennines. The art of ‘Dry Stonewalling’ involves using local stone, often sourced directly from the nearby terrain. This method becomes an ideal choice when there is a readily available supply of stone. Remarkably durable, these dry stone walls can endure for 100 to 200 years, surpassing many other types of fencing and even outlasting mortared masonry constructions. Rowley, Consett, Co. Durham, ENGLAND – 14th February ..read more

Are you looking for a new challenge with a side of camaraderie? The Consett Bridge Club welcomes you! We were thrilled by the fantastic response to our recent Consett Magazine advert and are excited to announce a special 15-week beginner/refresher course starting May 8th. Our club is more than just a place to play cards. It’s a community where close friendships blossom. We share meals, bridge holidays, and a passion for this fascinating game. Whether you’re a novice or need a brush-up, our course will ease you into the joy of bridge. You’ll learn in a supportive environment alongside fellow e ..read more

Moorside Pharmacy, a valued NHS community asset in Consett, County Durham, has changed hands. The transaction, brokered by Christie & Co, was finalised on April 30, with the terms of the sale remaining confidential. Located in Moorside, near the boundary of Northumberland, the pharmacy operates within a shared building that also houses a small GP surgery. This strategic location, coupled with the pharmacy’s operational model, has made it a critical healthcare provider in the area. Moorside Pharmacy, operational since 1995 under the ownership of Rachel Hurst, dispenses an average of 3,200 ..read more

The mayoral elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday, 2 May 2024, marking a significant date for voters across the North East. As Consett and the broader North East region gear up for a significant shift in regional governance, the North East Devolution Deal is set to introduce transformative changes not only locally but across Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, and Sunderland. With the establishment of the North East Mayoral Combined Authority officially beginning its operations on May 6, 2024—just days after the mayoral elections—residen ..read more

A member of the Leadgate Salvation Army, who also belongs to a motorcycle group known for donning Viking attire, has organised a charity fundraising event featuring a themed coffee morning and a fun day. Liz Bailey, an Adherent who cooks at the church and charity’s Nice Bites café, which serves up to 80 people a week, recently hosted an event at The Salvation Army with the Biking Vikings North East, a group of motorcycle riding, stilt walking, pipe and drum playing Vikings, who bring joy and happiness to the community while raising money for a good cause. Kind-hearted Liz, who also co-ordinat ..read more

By Chris Bruce The craft of sauce-making, but not just any sauce maker – Wiga Wagaa, a West African sauce artisan based at No. 1 Consett. Victor, a native of Nigeria, has called the North East home for the majority of his life. Educated in Newcastle with a background in Biochemistry, he traversed the realms of the Petrochemical Industry and Higher Education before establishing his sauce-making enterprise, initially at Tanfield and now thriving at No. 1 Industrial Estate. In today’s era of global culinary exploration, we’ve become well-acquainted with diverse cuisines, but one region less fami ..read more

Analysis: Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre and the UK’s Detention Policy Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre (IRC), situated in County Durham, has been at the centre of a heated debate concerning the UK’s policies on detention, particularly regarding vulnerable women seeking asylum. Since its inception in December 2021, the facility has drawn significant scrutiny from human rights groups and the media. Protesters gather at Hassockfield, armed with signs and flares, to demand reforms in immigration detention policies. Their united stance highlights the community’s call for justice and ..read more

In a heartwarming display of community spirit and dedication, Mrs. Brown, also known by his real name Brian Lewins of Leadgate, has remarkably raised over £17,000 in support of Alzheimer’s research and care. This commendable feat stands as a testament to the generosity and solidarity of the people of Consett, who have come together to support a cause that affects so many families across the UK and the globe. Brian Lewins, through his charitable activities, has not only raised an impressive sum but also heightened awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, fostering a stronger sense of community eng ..read more

A Coronation Street icon will leave the famous cobbles behind to tread the boards, joining the cast of a County Durham pantomime this year. Best known for his portrayal of Curly Watts in the popular ITV soap from 1983 to 2003, Kevin Kennedy will make his Empire Consett debut as His Royal Highness, King Curlington in Cinderella.  The spellbinding production, by writer and director Leah Bell, follows last year’s record-breaking pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk, which was enjoyed by more than 16,000 people at the Durham County Council venue.  No stranger to the stage, Kevin has worked ..read more

Planning an event, whether it’s a community festival, a charity fundraiser, or a personal celebration, can be a thrilling yet daunting task. If you’re gearing up to host your next big event in Consett, getting every detail right is key to ensuring that your guests have a memorable experience.  Here are some practical, straightforward tips to help you organise a successful event in this vibrant community. Start with a Clear Plan The first step in event planning is always to establish clear objectives. What are you hoping to achieve? Are you raising funds, celebrating an occasion, or simpl ..read more