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This year’s Mitford Village Show will take place on Saturday from 2pm.


The park and ride south car park is now fully open following it's temporary closure yesterday due to the bad weather.
Visitors to the final day of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta will enjoy the spectacular Parade of Sail; when the Tall Ships will sail from Blyth, southwards to St Mary's lighthouse before sailing five miles out to sea to start the race to Gothenburg.
The ships will start to leave to the port of Blyth from 1pm today, with the parade of sail expected to take place until 2.30pm.
As a result the ships are not available for the public to board today, but are available to view this morning.
The event will include a range of other entertainment until it closes at 5pm today.

Tall Ships park and ride car parks fully open


The park and ride south car park is now fully open following it


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A special relationship between Blyth and Gothenburg, in Sweden, which has helped see the Tall Ships Regatta come to Northumberland, has been praised.
The Blyth and Gothenburg programme brings together the communities of South East Northumberland and Sweden to celebrate the Blyth Tall Ships Regatta to Gothenburg. The ships leave Blyth today and will race to Gothenburg, which will then host its own celebration event.
Conny Brannberg
The cultural collaboration agreement with West Sweden was first signed by the North East Local Enterprise Partnership in 2012.
And Swedish representative Conny Brannberg, president of the cultural affairs committee, has praised the event in Blyth and says Gothenburg is looking forward to hosting the ships.

VIDEO: Cultural relationship between Blyth and Gothenburg praised


A special relationship between Blyth and Gothenburg, in Sweden, which has helped see the Tall Ships Regatta come to Northumberland, has been praised.


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The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 is now well and truly under way with large crowds flocking to the waterfront in Blyth for the first day of the event.
The video above shows the scene from the water with the Tall Ships berthed in the Port of Blyth at the North, Commissioners and Dun Cow Quays.
They will be here until Monday when they head out to race across the North Sea to Gothenburg, in Sweden, following a weekend packed full of events and entertainment.
Opening the event, Northumberland County Council leader, Grant Davey, said: "This is the biggest ever event we have hosted for Northumberland and I can’t tell you how pleased I am to see all these magnificent ships lined up along the Quayside. It really is an awe-inspiring sight."
Find our live blog on the homepage to follow all of the action from across the weekend, which is expected to see around 500,000 people descend on the town.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious regatta - the only one in the UK this year. Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, is the principal sponsor for the event in celebration of their 90th anniversary.
The Dar Mlodziezy is the largest of the Tall Ships at Blyth. Picture by Ben O'Connell
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story WATCH: Tall Ships in Blyth for start of regatta Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area...


The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016 is now well and truly under way with large crowds flocking to the waterfront in Blyth for the first day of the event.


WATCH: Tall Ships in Blyth for start of regatta


A Northumberland teenager is very excited about the adventure that awaits on one of the Tall Ships that will set sail for Gothenburg later this afternoon.
Although flying is her main passion, Esmee Webley felt that being a member of a crew taking part in the week-long race across the North Sea was too good an opportunity to miss.
The Morpeth resident has been with the Bedlington Squadron Air Cadets for nearly four years. She is on board Maybe - a Class B vessel.
Over the weekend when the regatta was in Blyth, there was an air cadets information tent and she and fellow squadron members from across the county were present to speak to young people and parents about what the organisation has to offer.
Of the forthcoming regatta, the 17-year-old said: "I applied individually to be part of the Tall Ships race as I believe it will be a great experience.
"I sent a couple of emails to explain why I was keen to go on the voyage and I was thrilled when I was lucky enough to be chosen.
"Being in a challenging environment with people I don't know will help my skills development, but I'm also hoping to enjoy it and have a good time. I'm excited and I'm looking forward to making lots of new friends.
"I wouldn't have been able to have so many fantastic opportunities and put myself forward for something like this without the support of my squadron."
Esmee, who is also an explorer scout, thanked Morpeth North county councillor David Bawn for providing some of his small schemes allocation to help fund her place in the regatta.
She ideally would like to be a pilot with the RAF or Royal Navy and after a work experience stint there earlier this summer, she has enrolled to train for a microlight National Private Pilot's Licence with Purple Aviation at Eshott Airfield.
She added: "It's great being part of the air cadets as you get to do fun activities such as aerobatics with an experienced instructor.
"Also, the camps I went on during the first couple of years, which included things like kayaking and rock climbing, were very useful as they developed my communication and other skills."

Esmee looking forward to Tall Ships experience


A Northumberland teenager is very excited about the adventure that awaits on one of the Tall Ships that will set sail for Gothenburg later this afternoon.


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Tonight is the last chance to see the fabulous fireworks display which has been lighting up the night sky at the Tall Ships festival.
The fireworks, visible for miles around and seen here on a video by John Tuttiett Photography, have been thrilling both visitors and people all around the area for the last two nights.
Fabulous fireworks at Blyth. Picture by Brian Smith
The display is accompanied by a film and musical score created by Swedish artist Cecilia Stenbom and UK composer Chris Sharkey, who have worked with people from Blyth and Gothenburg to produce the stunning experience.
Tonight's display starts at 9pm.

VIDEO: Watch the stunning Tall Ships fireworks display


Tonight is the last chance to see the fabulous fireworks display which has been lighting up the night sky at the Tall Ships festival.


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A landmark, feature-length documentary series for Sky will tell the story of six families over five years of their lives. The film will follow their dreams, ambitions and the journeys that they go on.


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New Morpeth store Pets at Home is inviting animal rescue organisations in the area to bid for financial support.


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What a magnificent sight. The Tall Ships put on a fantastic spectacle as they left Northumberland this afternoon.
Our slideshow of pictures by John Tuttiett Photography captures the climax to the four-day extravaganza, when more than 20 vessels hoisted their sails to leave Port of Blyth and set off for the 500-nautical-mile journey to Gothenburg in Sweden.
The Tall Ships leave Blyth. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
The Parade of Sail took them down the coast to St Mary's Island and then out to see for the 18-day journey.
More pictures and video of the amazing event to come.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Tall Ships ahoy! The fleet sails out of Blyth Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area...


What a magnificent sight. The Tall Ships put on a fantastic spectacle as they left Northumberland this afternoon.


Tall Ships ahoy! The fleet sails out of Blyth


Two key members of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta organising team have expressed their delight at how well it is going so far.
And they have set out how important the four-day event is for other parts of Northumberland following an excellent first day.
Tens of thousands of people have already visited Blyth to see the 23 majestic ships in place ahead of the start of the latest race on Monday.
They have also enjoyed a range of entertainment and activities at the port, as well as in the Market Place, Dun Cow Quay, Ridley Park and by Blyth beach.
David Hall, of one of the event sponsors Northumbrian Water, is also chairman of Northumberland Tourism and Active Northumberland.
He said: "When you look at the visitor numbers from yesterday, I think it was approaching 100,000 across the whole day and I'm confident of reaching half a million by the end of the event, which will provide a boost for the county's tourism economy of between £5million and £10million.
"Many businesses in Northumberland are benefiting form the regatta. For example, I know that bakers based in Morpeth and Alnwick are supplying products.
"Visitors have been complimentary about the breadth of activities available as well as the space provided for the ships.
"This event is good for other towns and villages that rely heavily on tourism as hotels and B&Bs further up the coast are reporting that there aren't many beds left.
"The legacy will hopefully be that people will come back to Northumberland having been impressed with what they have seen this weekend and a boost for sailing in the county, particularly for its yacht clubs."
He added that a number of tourist attractions in the county have set-up information displays and stalls in Ridley Park using donated freight containers.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture at the county council, said: "There is something for everyone at the event and the way it's laid out means it's very accessible whether you are able bodied or not.
"Everyone I've spoken to so far has nothing but praise for how it's being organised.
"It took a lot of hard work by many people to bring the event to Northumberland and the key message we're putting across is that this will benefit the whole county.
"Many people are taking the opportunity to visit some of our other towns and villages this weekend and the trainees who will be involved in the race are from all over Northumberland, with councillors support them through their members small schemes fund.
"One councillor chipped in to help fund two bus loads of young people from the Tyne Valley to come along and that's important because we want to encourage people in the west of the county to visit the south east and vice versa.
"It's great that the Port of Blyth has been so supportive and the activities have not curtailed any of its operations. Everyone is working together to make sure the event is a huge success.
The ships will start the race to Gothenburg, Sweden, on Monday. The distance is approximately 600 nautical miles.
A parade of the crews this afternoon will start at 3pm and race chairman James Stevens said they were getting excited for the week ahead at a Captain's Dinner event at Alnwick Castle last night.
He added: "It's very obvious that the town of Blyth has really got into the occasion and people I've spoken to are very enthusiastic about the Tall Ships.
"Day one was great and I'm sure it will be an excellent weekend. Hopefully, there will be a bit of wind on Monday when the race starts.
"The crews will take it very seriously and the responsibilities they will have will bring them together."

Tall Ships event 'great for whole county'


Two key members of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta organising team have expressed their delight at how well it is going so far.


There were celebrations at Lynemouth and District Arthritis Care 25 years ago. Pictured are some of the committee members, but what had they achieved?


A section of the Port of Blyth is to open to the public for the first time in living memory.
Officials at the port will open one of the secure terminals as part of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
A large area of the South Harbour terminal will open for the duration of the regatta to allow for a greater number of ships to be included in the August Bank Holiday event and to ensure the public can get to see them.
Visitors will get unique access to an area normally closed to the public with the chance to see plenty of what goes on within a working port.
In addition to the historic ships, there will be several naval vessels, a number of RAF helicopters and a host of food and entertainment stalls.
Pedestrians will be able to access the terminal from two entrances – one on Wensleydale Terrace, via the Ridley Park car park, and the other from Quay Road, adjacent to the Blyth Boathouse Restaurant. The Tall Ships located in South Harbour will be just a few minutes’ walk from those hosted on the public Dun Cow and Commissioners Quays.
Chief executive Martin Lawlor said: “Opening our doors to the public is going to be a big moment for us as it is the first time in living memory we’ve done so.
“Obviously some areas will be fenced off to ensure safety and to allow us to continue with some work but we hope the attractions in the open area and the chance to see behind the scenes will prove popular with both local residents and visitors.”
In addition, Blyth Harbour Commission has announced some restrictions to access at the north end of Blyth’s South Beach for the duration of the event. West Pier and some surroundings areas will be closed from 8am on Thursday 25th August until 6pm on Monday 29th August, while access to and from the beach east of the bandstand area of South Beach will also be closed.
Capt Martin Willis, Harbour Master, said: “Public safety will be our number one priority for the duration of the Tall Ships Regatta.
“We would ask the public to respect these closures and understand that they are in place for everyone’s safety.
“Although we understand that the West Pier and the surrounding areas are popular with the public, the risk to public safety is considered too great to have these areas open whilst so many people are in Blyth for the event.
“There are many other excellent viewing locations both within Blyth and the surrounding coastline for all to enjoy the spectacle of seeing these wonderful vessels.”


A section of the Port of Blyth is to open to the public for the first time in living memory.


Thousands of people have packed Blyth for the first day of the Tall Ships Regatta.


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While the weather might not be playing ball today, here's a look at some of yesterday's fun in the sun at the Tall Ships Regatta.
More than 100,000 people are expected to flock to Blyth for this weekend's free event, with more than 20 magnificent Tall Ships berthed at the quayside and one-and-a-half miles of fabulous entertainment for all the family.
Fun with Let's Circus.
It's the biggest event Northumberland has ever hosted, climaxing tomorrow with a spectacular Parade of Sail at 2pm when the ships set off for a 500-nautical-mile journey to Gothenburg in Sweden.
Keep up to date with all the action via our live blog, www.newspostleader.co.uk/live/event?2291187
Remember to use the hashtag #TallShipsBlyth to join in.

SLIDESHOW: A snapshot of fun from the Tall Ships


While the weather might not be playing ball today, here


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The Blyth Tall Ships Regatta has been 'exceedingly well attended', pulling in 'hundreds of thousands' of visitors.
The four-day event, which was the largest to have ever taken place in Northumberland, was the UK's only regatta in 2016. While final details are being worked on, it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people visited the event, coming from near and far. A detailed analysis will be taking place over the next few weeks to evaluate the event and to determine the extent of the impact on the local and regional economy, which was expected to be in the region of £8million.
The Blyth Tall Ships Regatta has been hailed a massive success.
As well as 23 majestic tall ships, the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta - which started on Friday and ended today - offered more than 1.5 miles of free entertainment. Visitors were able to climb on board some of the ships, enjoy free family fun, live music, street theatre, fair ground rides and nightly fireworks and evening performances.
The event included an extensive cultural programme, thanks to a £120,000 grant from Arts Council England and National Lottery funded Grants.
Activities stretched from the beach right up to the town centre. Highlights included the crew parade and re-enacted Blyth carnival which involved 1,000 people on Saturday afternoon. It also included a nightly fireworks performance which was accompanied by a film and musical score created by Swedish artist Cecilia Stenbom and UK composer Chris Sharkey who have worked with local people from Blyth and Gothenburg to produce the performance. The event culminated in the magnificent Parade of Sail this afternoon, when the Tall Ships left the Port of Blyth, accompanied by up to 70 flotillas, and sailed down the coast to St Mary's Lighthouse before sailing five miles out to sea ready to start their 500-plus nautical miles race to Gothenburg.
More than 1,000 staff and volunteers worked during the event, with many accommodation providers in Northumberland sold out over the weekend. There are 80 trainees aged between 15 and 63 years who will get their first taste of life aboard and working on a Tall Ship. Many of which are from Northumberland and 33 have been supported by Northumberland County Council ward councillors. There were also 140 volunteers, again most from Northumberland who helped over the four event day event in various roles. The volunteers have been thanked for their efforts.
The spectacular event has attracted visitors from far and wide.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, hosted the prestigious regatta. Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately-owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, was the principal sponsor for the event in celebration of its 90th anniversary.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture for the county council, said: “The last four days have been a magnificent and memorable event - to see the joy and excitement with thousands of people who enjoyed themselves is something that will be a lasting memory for me.”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “The port, the people, the ships and everyone else involved this weekend has done Blyth and the wider region proud. While we are sorry to see the ships go the impact they have brought will be felt well into the future."
Alan Ferguson, chairman of Fergusons of Blyth, said: “The regatta has been a fantastic success and we were so proud, in our 90th year, to be the main supporter of this huge event. The regatta showcased what this town can do and should be a springboard for its continued growth.”
The event proved popular with visitors. Sue Symes visited the festival with her husband Mick. She said: "We attended the event on Saturday and had a fantastic day from our start at midday until 9pm to see the spectacular fireworks.
"I was very much looking forward to the event and wasn't disappointed at all. From our arrival at the park and ride north to the bandstand area and back we managed to see just about everything. The highlights for me were the parade of the crews, so vibrant and fun, and of course the fireworks! Too many other things to mention but just an all round great, friendly experience. I feel proud to come from the North East.
"Well done to everyone involved in making this a great experience, there was plenty to do and see for all ages and for such a small community Blyth you should be proud! Thank you."
Debbie Kings, from Nottingham, said: "It's the first time we have been to Blyth - not our first trip to Northumberland though. It's also the first time we've ever been to an event like this - hence why we were so impressed. Loved the yellow wrist bands for children - saw it in action when a very upset little boy was found by a policeman who promptly phoned mum. Thought the stewarding around the town was spot on. And the sheer enthusiasm of everyone, the smiling faces - terrific!"

WATCH: Blyth Tall Ships Regatta hailed a success, attracting 'hundreds of thousands' of visitors


Another key sponsor has come on board for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
Northumbrian Water has been confirmed as one of the highlight sponsors and will provide important logistical support to the event in August.
Up to 30 Tall Ships are expected to gather at Blyth for the Regatta which takes place over the weekend of August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment.
The water company, who supply 2.7 million people across the north east with water and waste water services every day, will supply and manage water supplies to the ships and crew.
These supplies will be provided via temporary overland pipework and hydrants, which will be securely installed along Commissioner’s Quay and Dun Cow Quay.
Northumbrian Water’s external relations manager, Maureen Berne, said: “Water is at the heart of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, so it is a natural fit that we are supporting the event.
“As well as providing tap water for ships, we will also treat their waste water at our sewage treatment works on Tyneside, and return it safely back to the environment.
“Northumbrian Water plays a key part in looking after the stunning Northumberland coastline by protecting bathing water quality through our wastewater treatment operations.
“We are very proud to sponsor this event. The tourism and economic benefits the Regatta will bring to the region also support our commitment to help the north east thrive.”
Northumbrian Water estimate that they will treat up to 120,000 litres of waste water from the ships during the course of the event.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are delighted to have Northumbrian Water on board as one of our official partners for this water-based event.
“It’s very fitting that Northumbrian Water plays a key part in looking after our stunning Northumberland coastline, working daily to protect our bathing water quality through its waste water treatment operations.
“It is fantastic that this beautiful stretch of our coastline will be showcased regionally, nationally and internationally during this amazing bank holiday weekend.”
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious North East Tall Ships Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth confirmed as the Principal Sponsor.
Martin Lawlor, Chief Executive, Port of Blyth, said: “The support of Northumbrian Water as one of our event sponsors is invaluable. They will be providing an important service to the ships and crews and the fact that they will do this in a way that’s sustainable and non-harmful to the local environment is hugely important.”
Northumbrian Water’s leisure team will be in Ridley Park during the event.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: New sponsor on board for Regatta


Another key sponsor has come on board for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.


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A-level results for King Edward VI School, Morpeth


The following shows the number of A-Level, or equivalent qualification, passes achieved by students at KEVI in this year’s results. An asterisk denotes three or more A* or A grades.


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A community cinema will restart its programme of films next month after a summer break.


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Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to visit Blyth this bank holiday weekend as it hosts the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.


Armed Forces Minister issues statement after soldier killed in Northumberland


Armed Forces Minister Mike Penning has issued a statement after a soldier was shot and killed at Otterburn


A community choir is looking for new members to join its group when it starts again next week.


A music event will take place in Morpeth this weekend.


Newbiggin Hall maintained their 100 per cent start to the season with two victories in the week.
They took all three points from a tough encounter at Cramlington Town Reserves by a 3-1 scoreline, with Tony Dobie, Jonathan Anderson and Nathan Lowdon on target – Steven Patterson the scorer for Town.
They then travelled to Wardley and prevailed 7-3. Lowdon and Liam Walton both celebrated hat-tricks, with Dobie again on target. Michael Mains bagged a brace for Wardley with Jack Burns also scoring.
Wardley had picked up three points earlier in the week at Jesmond. Carl Clarke bagged a brace with Chris Lowther and Anthony Kew also on target as they won 4-1.
Forest Hall YPC celebrated two home wins in the week. Goals from Lewis Walker and Aaron Wright saw them past West Jesmond 2-0, while a brace from Paul Ridley and further strikes from Michael Sutcliffe, Adam Bambrough and Mark Potts earned them a 5-1 win over Newcastle Medicals, whose scorer was Joe O’Donnell.
Stobswood Welfare, however, continue to lead the pack. Steve Gibbard netted the only goal of a tight derby against Morpeth Town Seniors, with Welfare then going nap at Monkseaton FC A. Gibbard scored another pair, with Jake Baker, Kevin Bell and David King completing their tally.
Ponteland United Reserves sit just behind the leading trio and remain unbeaten. Darren Parkes cancelled out a Michael Grieves goal as they drew 1-1 with Morpeth Town Seniors, but earlier in the week Pont had seen off Newbiggin Hall Vettic by an improbable 22-0 scoreline, with 11 different goalscorers.
Heaton Stannington B picked up two wins in the week to move into fifth in the table. Their first success was 6-1 at the expense of Killingworth YPC Cobras, and included a 30-yard free kick from secretary David Jones. Nik Watson scored twice, and other goals were added by Connor Quinn, Martin Edmond and Jamie Anderson. Nathan Jeffery scored for Killingworth.
The Stan then travelled to North Shields Athletic Reserves and claimed an impressive 4-1 verdict. Jones netted again, as did Watson, with their other goals scored by Aladin Aada and the magnificently named Garrick Murphy-Collins. Daniel Haggerston scored the sole Shields reply.
Athletic had been held 0-0 by Monkseaton FC A earlier in the week, whilst Newcastle Medicals shared the points with Gosforth Bohemian Reserves – Richard Peppiatt’s goal for Medics being cancelled out by Nick Chance.
Sadly, Bohs’ clash with Jesmond on Saturday had to be abandoned due to a serious leg injury.

Hall maintain maximum start to Tynerside Amateur League season


Newbiggin Hall maintained their 100 per cent start to the season with two victories in the week.


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Blyth is gearing up for another massive day tomorrow when many more thousands of people will flock to the Tall Ships Regatta.
There was plenty to see and do today as these pictures from John Tuttiett Photography show.
Blyth Harbour Master Martin Willis; Tall Ships race director James Stevens; Alan Ferguson, from principal sponsor Fergusons of Blyth;David Hull, Northumbrian Water; Martin Lawler, Port of Blyth; Coun Grant Dave, Northumberland County Council Leader;and Sara Olsson, representing Gothenburg. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
They include a picture from the opening ceremony of Blyth Harbour Master Martin Willis; Tall Ships race director James Stevens; Alan Ferguson, from principal sponsor Fergusons of Blyth; David Hull, Northumbrian Water; Martin Lawler, Port of Blyth; Coun Grant Dave, Northumberland County Council Leader; and Sara Olsson, representing Gothenburg, the destination of the Tall Ships race.
Also pictured are crowds waiting to board the Dar Mlodziezy and a crew member welcoming people onto the ship; some of the street entertainment; and Alan Ferguson, in his grandfather's 1926 Bean truck. Fergusons is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.
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Blyth is gearing up for another massive day tomorrow when many more thousands of people will flock to the Tall Ships Regatta.


More pictures from the Tall Ships Regatta


A leading leisure airline has announced a major recruitment drive, with 1,000 pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions available across the UK, with 90 of these in Newcastle.
To support this drive by Jet2.com, the company hosted a recruitment roadshow in Novotel, Newcastle, yesterday. The roadshow was designed to support the recruitment of pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions at Newcastle Airport as the company continues to grow.
Earlier this year, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays launched its biggest ever flights and holidays programme for summer 2017 from the airport, with more flights and more seats to 28 sunshine hotspots.
Following the recent addition of an eighth UK base in Birmingham with flights launching in 2017, alongside the acquisition of 30 new B737-800 aircraft commencing in September 2016 over a two-year period, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays is looking to invest in its next phase of growth and development.
This continuous expansion has opened up a wealth of exciting opportunities for a host of talented pilots, cabin crew and engineers alike.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “Our family-friendly formula is clearly working with customers and it means that we’re one of the UK’s fastest growing airlines. We have exciting plans to expand the number of destinations we fly to, as well as the number of UK bases we fly from, and this means that our team is growing all the time too. We were delighted to see so many pilots, engineers and aspiring cabin crew at our Newcastle roadshow.”
Jet2.com is the fourth largest registered airline in the UK and has recently been voted the UK’s favourite airline by TripAdvisor users and the UK’s most loved airline by users of the airline review website, Skytrax.
It is looking to recruit B737 and B757 Type Rated and Non Type Rated captains and first officers to play a pivotal role in the company’s ongoing success.
The roles are targeted at experienced pilots with an existing commercial or military background, a strong training record and the commitment, energy and flexibility required to deliver friendly low fares to their all-important customers.
Aspiring cabin crew members will be passionate about customer service with a positive and flexible approach to work to ensure the customers always receive a truly VIP service when flying with Jet2.com.
Outside of the cockpit, engineers are on hand 24/7 to ensure flights continue to operate safely.
The airline’s EA 145 maintenance approval covers both line and base maintenance and experienced engineers also work in office-based roles, including Powerplant, technical Services, airworthiness and maintenance programmes.
As the UK’s leading leisure airline, with a fleet of more than 63 aircraft flying to more than 220 routes to popular destinations in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and a wealth of European Cities, this marks an exciting time for pilots, cabin crew and engineers to hop aboard the team.
Visit the Jet2.com website to see all of the jobs available.

Major airline to create 90 jobs at Newcastle International Airport


A leading leisure airline has announced a major recruitment drive, with 1,000 pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions available across the UK, with 90 of these in Newcastle.


A host of activities are taking place at Heighley Gate Garden Centre for children this summer, inspired by the Olympics in Rio.


Beautiful countryside, friendly locals and a unique sense of humour are as the things people love most about the North East, a business survey has found


A full team of volunteers have been recruited to help make The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta extra special.
Organisers put out a call for would-be volunteers four months ago and received a wave of applications.
A total of 140 volunteers have been recruited over the four event days at Blyth.
They make up Ship Liaison Officers (SLOs), Town Hosts, Event Liaison Officers (ELOs) and Technical Liaison Officers (TLOs).
The volunteers will be wearing yellow, turquoise and red polo-shirts.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth as the Principal Sponsor.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “We have a superb team of friendly, reliable volunteers who will play a vital role assisting the organisers, and helping the crews, residents and visitors to have a wonderful bank holiday.
“It will be a busy weekend but it’ll also be fun and very rewarding. The ship and land-based volunteers will gain a wealth of experience while helping to deliver a world-class event.”
The ship-based SLOs will be working with the ships and their crews providing essential communications between them and Sail Training International and the event team.
Carol Bird and her husband John, both 71 and from Amble, will be working as Ship Liaison Officers.
She said: “I’m really excited about the Tall Ships Regatta.
“We love yachting and we’re really looking forward to seeing the Tall Ships sailing into Blyth and meeting the international crews and being part of this magical event.”
Volunteer Aillie Osborne, 48, from Ulgham, will be a volunteer within hospitality.
She said: “I’m excited that the Regatta is just over a month away now and I’m really looking forward to being part of the team.”
Michael Allen, 55 from Blyth, will be an ELO.
He said: “It is amazing to have this international event on our doorstep and being a volunteer is a great opportunity to be a part of it. I can’t wait.”
The Event Liaison Officers will be supporting the Event Managers and the arts cultural program, and the ‘Town Hosts’ will be providing tourism advice and guidance to visitors.
Up to 30 Tall Ships are expected to gather at Blyth for the Regatta which takes place between August 26 and 29.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “Volunteers are going to play an important role working on the land and watersides of the event, helping event visitors and the international crews of the Tall Ships to have an enjoyable visit to the county.”
Elsewhere, there are still places on board five of the tall ships – Vega Gamleby, Tomidi, Morgenster, Kapitan Borchardt and Thalassa.
For more information visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com/jointheadventure#info

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Volunteers in place for Regatta


A full team of volunteers have been recruited to help make The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta extra special.


Northumbria Police’s Op Dragoon team are supporting a European day of action to reduce the number of people killed on our roads.
European road safety network TIPSOL is hoping that September 21 will be the world’s first European Day Without A Road Death and called on the support of all road users on the continent.
The campaign is aimed at encouraging the public to reflect on their behaviour and attitude towards driving in a bid to reduce the risk of a serious accident on our roads.
The Op Dragoon team has already been working hard to educate people about the dangers of our roads and regularly visit schools, colleges and events to spread the road safety message.
In the past 12 months, the number of fatalities on our roads has fallen by 32 per cent following a number of road-safety campaigns, but despite that, 26 people were still killed on our region’s roads.
Now Op Dragoon is throwing its weight behind the initiative – dubbed Project Edward – and want the public to show their support by posting pictures of the number zero on Twitter. People will be encouraged to make the number zero with their hands or using road-related objects such as a tyre, steering wheel or a branded logo on their vehicle.
Chief Inspector John Heckels, head of the Op Dragoon team, said: “One death as a result of a road traffic accident is one too many and more work still needs to be done to help make our roads safer.
“Losing a member of your family is devastating and one of the most difficult parts of our job is knocking on the door of a victim’s family to break the news that their loved one has passed away.
“People may get behind the wheel and think they are invincible, but we know that is simply not the case. Collisions can happen in a blink of the eye and the results can be horrendous.
“We know that there will probably be more fatalities on our roads in the future, but those types of incidents are far less likely to occur if people treat the roads, and other road users, with respect.
“Everyone is a road user in some way or another whether you’re a taxi driver, farmer, motorcyclist, pedal cyclist, haulier, public transport provider, horse rider, walker, young child or patient transport user.
“We want you all to be involved in this campaign and play your part in making our roads safer. Tweet us a picture and make it obvious to us what kind of road user you are.
“If you’re a lollipop person, let us see your uniform. If you’re a tractor driver, show us your boiler suit. We want everyone to get behind this campaign and get everyone to back this campaign.”

Police team backs European road-safety day


Northumbria Police’s Op Dragoon team are supporting a European day of action to reduce the number of people killed on our roads.


A maritime artist has created his own personal recognition to the Blyth Tall Ships Regatta.
Edwin Blackburn has produced a painting of the Williams II tall ship, as well as a limited edition print run, both of which will be on show among his exhibition due to open this weekend.
Money from the exhibition and sales of the print will go towards the Tall Ship project.
The charity is helping to uncover the history of Blyth and re-acting the voyage of discovery of Antarctica 200 years on in a wooden Tall Ship that the charity’s trainees and volunteers are refitting.
Edwin was inspired to support the charity by donating the proceeds of the sale of the original painting depicting “The Williams II approaching Blyth harbour”.
Edwin said: “I’m proud to be involved and help the charity in my own small way.”
The exhibition ‘Tall Ships and the Northumberland Coast’ will be held at The Blagdon Gallery, Milkhope Centre, from Sunday until the end of the Regatta.
Signed Limited Edition prints also available direct from the Blyth Tall Ship Organisation and Frameworks Gallery, Blyth.
Clive Gray, chief executive of Blyth Tall Ship, said: “We are hugely grateful to Edwin.
“This is a real honour for Blyth Tall Ship and recognises the great work our community volunteers, supporters, trainees and staff are doing to change perceptions and inspire different futures in Blyth.”
The project trains 50 young people and volunteers a year in Heritage Boat building skills at NVQ Level and working with archive and museum volunteers, is also conserving, digitising and sharing, the archives of the Port of Blyth.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Exhibition to support Regatta and project


A maritime artist has created his own personal recognition to the Blyth Tall Ships Regatta.


Crowds are continuing to flock to the Tall Ships Regatta as the landmark event goes into its third day.
Tens of thousands of people have descended on the Port of Blyth to see more than 20 tall ships and a host of activities around the town.
Away from the Tall Ships, queues grow to see the other attractions, including a Royal Navy rescue helicopter. Picture by LJ Sedgwick.
Despite a wet start, which saw the southern park and ride car park closed due to flooding, the number of visitors at the event has grown as the day progresses.
Most have taken advantage of the final opportunity to get on board some of the tall ships, which are due to welcome their crew back on board tomorrow (Monday) ahead of their departure at 2pm.
As well as the tall ships, there are five areas of family-fun filled activities taking part – stretching from Blyth beach to the Market Square in the town centre – with a wide range of food stalls keeping the visitors fed and watered.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “The Regatta is in full-swing now and today has been extremely popular with visitors coming from near and far to see the ships and enjoy all the entertainment. It really is an impressive sight.”
The crowds are expected to continue to grow ahead of the third and final firework display, due to take place at 9pm.
For more information on the Regatta visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com, www.facebook.com/tallshipsblyth2016 or on Twitter @TallShipsBlyth

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Crowds continue to flock to Regatta despite wet start


Crowds are continuing to flock to the Tall Ships Regatta as the landmark event goes into its third day.


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Families have been enjoying live music and other fun activities in the sunshine at the Blyth Tall Ships regatta this afternoon.
As well as the parade that is currently taking place, entertainment is being provided at the beach, bandstand, in the Market Place and at Ridley Park.
A large crowd enjoy a circus skills show in Ridley Park.
There is also a stage at Dun Cow Quay and the video shows the Sing Morpeth community choir in action.
Funfair attractions are across the site and those coming along will likely run into a pirate or two.
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Families have been enjoying live music and other fun activities in the sunshine at the Blyth Tall Ships regatta this afternoon.


WATCH: Plenty of entertainment on offer at Tall Ships


Visitors to Newbiggin sea front this Sunday will be able to enjoy live street performances and purchase goods produced by young people.
Newbiggin Teenage Market will be the second such event to take place in Northumberland this year, organised by Northumberland County Council’s Youth Service.
Those involved have already said that they will be producing and/or selling cakes, sweets, mugs, t-shirts, phone covers and more, as well as running a tombola and fun stalls including hook-a-duck.
Local county councillor and deputy business chair of the county council, Liz Simpson, is markets champion for the county and she is looking forward to this exciting event in her own community.
She said: “The teenage market is a national initiative that gives young people a free platform to showcase their creative talents.
“At Newbiggin on Sunday, we have stalls for groups and individual young people to hone their enterprise skills, raise money for themselves, their clubs or chosen charities and get a taste of what having a market stall is like.
“It is an opportunity for them to trial new business ideas and sell creative products.
“Whilst some teenagers are selling their wares, others may be engaged in a street performance and I can’t wait to see them all.”
The market will take place from 11am to 3pm. There are extra stalls available if any more teenagers would like to join in and trade on the day.
For more details on how to get involved, call Mike Kelcey on 01670 620323 or email michael.kelcey@northumberland.gov.uk or call Neil Brown, markets manager, on 07909 688174 or email neil.brown@northumberland.gov.uk

Plenty to enjoy and purchase at teen market


Visitors to Newbiggin sea front this Sunday will be able to enjoy live street performances and purchase goods produced by young people.


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The Tall Ships Regatta is a photographer's dream and we've got another selection of pictures to give you a flavour of the event.
This slideshow shows crew members of the Dar Mlodziezy meeting some of the thousands of visitors to the quayside; some of the 200 members of the St John Ambulance Brigade who are doing sterling work at the Regatta; Branson Reay, from Killingworth, getting a lesson in knot tying from Nigel Horn of the Ocean Youth Trust and a crew member of the Fryderyk Chopin out on the yard arm.
Crew from the Dar Mlodziezy meet some of the visitors. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
And of course more pictures of the magnificent Tall Ships themselves.
Thanks to John Tuttiett Photography and Anne Hopper for the pictures.


The Tall Ships Regatta is a photographer


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Ships crews - real and make-believe - paraded through the streets of Blyth today.
More than 1,000 crew and local people took part in a fabulous event to commemorate the second day of the Tall Ships coming to Northumberland.
The Tall Ships crew and community parade. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
Crews from the 23 ships berthed in the town for the four-day spectacular wound their way through their adopted home.
Alongside the uniformed crews were bands of pirates, Vikings and even a kilted Scot on a mobility scooter
The Blyth Carnival, organised by Headway Arts, was part of an exciting cultural programme of events for The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta Blyth 2016 thanks to support from the Arts Council England. The carnival last took place in the late 1980s.
Regatta organisers secured £120,000 from Arts Council England and National Lottery funded Grants for the Arts programme to support the plans which include the re-imagining of the carnival.
The grant is also supporting the large scale evening performances of music, image and pyrotechnics complemented as well as international street theatre, music and circus over the August bank holiday event.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, Northumberland County Council: “It’s been another amazing day in Blyth, with the carnival and crew parade being a personal highlight - the efforts by everyone involved was very evident from the smiles on the faces of everyone who came.”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “The Regatta is in full-swing now and today has been extremely popular with visitors coming from near and far to see the ships and enjoy all the entertainment. It really is an impressive sight.”
Alan Ferguson, chairman of Fergusons of Blyth, the event’s principal sponsor, said: “The sights, sounds and colour of the Regatta today have been truly memorable and testament to all the hard work which has gone on in the run-up to and during the Regatta."
Lisa O’Connor, from Blyth, said: “I want to say what a spectacular event my home town Blyth has put on for us. The organisers have done an amazing job - made us all proud of this town. The organisers certainly planned this event amazing. Thank you for a wonderful time, fireworks, etc. You made us all proud of our home town.”
The county council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta. Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately-owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, is the principal sponsor in celebration of its 90th anniversary.
The Regattat will be open until 10pm today and Sunday and 5pm on Monday.
Visitors can still benefit from the discounted event parking rate of £5 (+50p booking fee) until midnight the night before the day they wish to attend, by visiting http://www.tallshipsblyth2016.com/parkandride#info Or parking is £10 cash only on the day.
There is no event parking in Blyth town centre over the weekend but an extensive park and ride system is in operation. For full details visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story TALL SHIPS SLIDESHOW: Crews and colourful characters on parade Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area...


Ships crews - real and make-believe - paraded through the streets of Blyth today.


TALL SHIPS SLIDESHOW: Crews and colourful characters on parade


Police will be on hand to help visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta this weekend.
Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to turn out for the four-day event at Blyth as the race celebrates its 60th anniversary.
Officers from Northumbria Police are supporting the event organisers and will be on duty to offer advice and reassurance to attendees.
The local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be on duty and will be highly visible in Blyth while the Dog Section will also be on duty to introduce visitors to the new puppy recruits.
And the Force’s Marine Unit will be out on patrol to help keep the port secure and respond to any incidents on the water.
Sergeant Suzanne Crossley, who runs the unit, said: “We are really excited to be part of the Tall Ships and there is going to be a real buzz around the town.
“Everyone in the Marine Unit is looking forward to being a part of it and we will make sure we give everyone a wave from our boat which will be patrolling the water over the course of the weekend.
“Our main role is to keep the public safe and the port secure so that anyone attending the Tall Ships over the weekend can have the best possible experience.
“Open water can be really dangerous and we need the public to be aware of exactly what can happen if you enter the water at the Tall Ships over the weekend.
“The temperature of the water can cause the body to go into shock, the current could sweep you out to sea and objects such as rocks could be hidden under the water surface.
“You should never go into the water if you have been drinking alcohol and families should make sure that any young children are supervised and kept a safe distance from the water edge.
“We will be on duty and working closely with RNLI to deal with any incidents but we don’t anticipate any trouble and are looking forward to a really great event.”
Two Park and Ride sites will be in operation north and south of Blyth and there will be no parking for vehicles within the town itself as a number of road closures and road blocks will be in place.
A limited number of disability parking will be available in the town centre but visitors will have to reserve a space in advance. Taxis and existing public transport links will continue to operate throughout the weekend.
For more information about the event, parking and transport to and from the Tall Ships visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com/

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Police to offer help and reassurance during Regatta


Police will be on hand to help visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta this weekend.


Sorry, we're having problems with our video player at the moment, but are working to fix it as soon as we can
The chief executive of Blyth Tall Ship project says that the four-day regatta will put the town on the map.
The ambitious project is restoring a 100-year-old Baltic Trader in a bid to recreate the original voyage of Captain William Smith that discovered the first land in Antarctica in 1819. Captain Smith’s vessel was built in Blyth after he raised funds to do so.
Clive Gray, chief executive of Blyth Tall Ship project.
As a result, Blyth Tall Ship is helping to transform the lives of young people through heritage boat-building. Volunteers – including unemployed teenagers and experienced maritime engineers – are working on the restoration project.
And speaking from the group’s workshop in the town, chief executive Clive Gray is delighted that Blyth is hosting the Tall Ships Regatta, which runs from today until Monday.
He said: “It’s one of the biggest things that has happened in the county. It shows that Blyth is mature enough and is in a good enough place to host something of this nature.
“It’s a fantastic event and it puts Blyth on the map. Long term, it will change the way that people think about the town and give people a lot of confidence in the town.”
For updates, pictures, videos and interviews from the regatta, follow our live feed throughout the weekend.

WATCH: ‘Tall Ships Regatta puts Blyth on the map’


The chief executive of Blyth Tall Ship project says that the four-day regatta will put the town on the map.


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A spectacular display of fire and lights thrilled the crowds at Blyth quayside last night.
Spotlights illuminated the forest of masts from the Tall Ships and performers waved flaming torches, before the ships sounded their horns.
Fire and lights at the Tall Ships.
The display was part of the nightly fireworks display which has lit up the night sky during the four-day event, the biggest event Northumberland has hosted.
The nightly fireworks were accompanied by a film and musical score created by Swedish artist Cecilia Stenbom and UK composer Chris Sharkey, who have worked with the people of Blyth and Gothenburg to produce the show.

VIDEO: Spectacular fire and light display at Tall Ships


A spectacular display of fire and lights thrilled the crowds at Blyth quayside last night.


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Two open-air film screenings will take place at Wallington next weekend.


The judges will soon be meeting to decide which community champions will be honoured at this year’s Best of Northumberland awards, after the deadline for entries closed last week.
And the winners will be announced and presented with their prizes during a glitzy ceremony at the Macdonald Linden Hall Country Club, Longhorsley, on the evening of Thursday, September 15.
The annual competition honours unsung community heroes who do amazing things.
Over the last few months, readers have been encouraged to nominate individuals and groups in the county who go above and beyond the call of duty and/or show incredible strength and courage in the face of adversity.
Organised by Northeast Press – publishers of the Northumberland Gazette, Morpeth Herald and News Post Leader – and Tweeddale Press’s Berwick Advertiser, the annual Best of Northumberland awards are a celebration of bravery, determination, commitment and achievement.
We have been looking for people who, in their everyday lives, manage to do something extraordinary for the benefit of themselves and others.
We have had a whole host of nominations across the 13 categories, which recognise a cross-section of local heroes.
The categories are Community Group; Community Champion; Sporting Achievement; Fund-raiser; Child of Achievement; Child of Courage; Green Champion; Role Model; Volunteer; Sports Team; Good Neighbour; Student; and Lifetime Contribution Award.
As part of this, Northumbrian Water is sponsoring the Sporting Achievement award, as well as the Sports Team prize. The company’s external relations manager Maureen Berne said: “We are delighted to support these awards. We have all been gripped by the excellent performances of our sports men and women at the Rio Olympics which will inspire the next generation of Olympians.
“Hydration is an important part of a healthy diet and even more so when taking part in sport. Our tap water is excellent quality, value for money and calorie free – a great sports drink. These awards are special as they mean so much to the people of Northumberland and we wish all the entrants the best of luck.”
The headline sponsor is The Banks Group, which is also sponsoring the Green Champion award. Other sponsors include Northumberland County Council and Northumberland College.

BEST OF NORTHUMBERLAND: Judges to meet to decide winners


The judges will soon be meeting to decide which community champions will be honoured at this year’s Best of Northumberland awards, after the deadline for entries closed last week.


Even the weather didn’t disappoint as Northumberland’s biggest ever event weighed anchor yesterday.
Blyth was a hive of activity and excitement as thousands of residents and visitors flocked to the town for the first day of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.
After months of planning, the event finally got under way with sunshine and blue skies providing the perfect backdrop to the 23 majestic Tall Ships lining the length of the quayside.
The Tall Ships Regatta is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors over the course of the weekend who will be able to climb on board the ships, enjoy free family fun, live music, street theatre, fun fairs, fireworks and evening entertainment. The event will be open until 10pm today and Sunday and 5pm on Monday.
Today’s highlights include a parade of the ships’ crews and community, which will start at 3pm, and a spectacular 20-minute firework display at 9pm.
Northumberland County Councillor Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “It is really great that the event has started so well, with thousands of people coming into the town to see the ships and everything else on offer. The best thing is there’s still three days to go!”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “Seeing the quayside so alive with people and the magnificent tall ships moored side by side along the river is a spectacle that will live long in the memory. We are pleased that the months of planning are now complete and the event has got off to a great start.”
Alan Ferguson, chairman of Fergusons of Blyth, the event’s principal sponsor, said: “We’re so proud to see our town in the national spotlight with crowds lining the quayside and enjoying all the entertainment. There is so much to see and do around Blyth this weekend and we’re all looking forward to the next few days.”
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta.
Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately-owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, is the principal sponsor for the event in celebration of its 90th anniversary.
There is no parking in Blyth town centre over the weekend but an extensive park and ride system is in operation. For full details visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com

Oh buoy, what a day at the Tall Ships Regatta


Even the weather didn’t disappoint as Northumberland’s biggest ever event weighed anchor yesterday.


Community artwork is to go on display as part of the Tall Ships Regatta.
Local artist Michele Rickitt was inspired to develop a community art project in Blyth.
Teaming up with emerging artists Ann Marie Dalton, Denise Primrose and Jane Sutcliffe, they secured funding from Blyth Town Council and Arts Council England.
The four were all participants on the Future Creatives Enterprise Programme funded by bait, and the programme helped bring the team together and create the project.
The project culminates in an exhibition, “Blyth Community Sails”, in St Cuthbert’s C of E Church, Plessey Road, Blyth, from August 26 to 29.
The exhibition will be open each day from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday there will be a special service from 9.30am to 10.45am.
The artists have been delivering workshops in community groups and centres in Blyth, including Bright Beginnings in Northumberland, the Briardale, and the Buffalo.
The centrepiece of the exhibition is a set of three symbolic sails representing the ‘Past, Present, and Future’, which feature the art created during the workshops.
Alongside the sails there will be a display of Portholes created in a textiles workshop held at Weave in Lynemouth.
The team have been working closely with St Cuthbert’s Church, enabling groups that use the Church to produce work for the exhibition including an 11 foot long seascape collage and a flotilla of origami paper boats.
Ann Marie, Denise, and Jane worked with youth groups at the Buffalo Community Centre to create a site-specific art installation for their foyer, which is also going to be on display.
Michele said: “We have been delighted by the enthusiasm of everyone we’ve worked with during the project.
“People who wouldn’t normally take part in arts activities told us how much they have enjoyed the workshops, and that they would participate in more things like this.
“We wanted this project to connect the residents of Blyth to the Tall Ships Regatta using art, and I believe that we have succeeded thanks to the fantastic community engagement we’ve experienced.
“We would like to thank Blyth Town Council and Arts Council England for funding the project.
“We hope that visitors to the Regatta will see what the local community has achieved in just four months.”
• A final call is being made for two unsung heroes to be special guests at the Tall Ships celebrations.
The Commissioner’s Quay Inn at Blyth will be hosting an exclusive party with grandstand viewing of the ships and is looking for two people from the Blyth area who go the extra mile to help others.
You have until Monday, August 15, to send your nominations to Commissioners Quay Competition, News Post Leader, Unit 15, Telford Court, Loansdean, Morpeth NE61 2DB, or email news.leader@jpress.co.uk

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: More artwork to go on show for Regatta


Community artwork is to go on display as part of the Tall Ships Regatta.


On the day that Blyth’s Tall Ship Regatta began, the town’s new pub, The Commissioners Quay Inn, took delivery of a handcrafted replica of HMS Victory.
The intricate model of Nelson’s flagship in the Battle of Trafalgar was gifted to the quayside-based pub after it made a donation to The Friends of the Church of Our Lady – a group of volunteers working to preserve the historic 11th century church at Seaton Delaval Hall.
Standing at 88cm high and more than a metre long, the model was donated to the Friends by Margaret McBriarty – whose late husband Terry painstakingly crafted the replica – to help raise funds for the church’s restoration project.
It was presented to The Commissioners Quay Inn general manager Catherine Bellhouse by Mrs McBriarty, where it will take pride of place long after the actual Tall Ships have left Blyth at the end of the festival on Monday.
Catherine Bellhouse said: “We were delighted to support such a worthy, local cause as The Friends of the Church of Our Lady and feel humbled to have such a magnificent artifact on permanent display here at The Commissioners Quay Inn.
“It is very fitting that Mrs McBriarty was able to present the ship to us on the actual day that the Tall Ships themselves arrived at the quay outside and will be a legacy of their visit.
“The model has attracted a lot of attention and interest and certainly bears a striking resemblance to some of the ships in front of the inn today. It’s a real talking point.”
Mrs McBriarty said: “The model of HMS Victory was crafted by my husband. He found building these ships a way of concentrating and relaxing after he took early retirement due to his ill health.
“I’m really pleased that it has linked up with the new Commissioners Quay Inn. My husband would have been delighted that thanks to their generous financial donation he has been able to support this beautiful little chapel.”
The Church of Our Lady has been closed for more than two years due to structural issues, but the volunteers hope to reopen the Norman church next year. Visitors are still able to view the church’s fascinating interior from its porch. Click here to arrange a visit or to make a donation.

Blyth pub takes delivery of handcrafted replica of HMS Victory


On the day that Blyth’s Tall Ship Regatta began, the town’s new pub, The Commissioners Quay Inn, took delivery of a handcrafted replica of HMS Victory.


Polar explorer Conrad Dickinson, who guided Prince Harry during the Walking with the Wounded 2013 South Pole Allied Challenge, is the guest speaker at Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s one day outdoor festival on the Blagdon Hall Estate.


The sharp drop in GCSE grades nationally does not mirror the regional picture, with top grades in the North East seeing the smallest change.
This year’s GCSE grades have seen a significant fall in pupils achieving A* and A grades. However, the official results show that while the North East has seen a dip of 0.3 per cent in numbers of pupils achieving the coveted top grades, it is the region with the smallest change since last year.
Other regions, such as the North West and Eastern Regions, have seen a one per cent drop since 2015, while the North East leads the way with the lowest drop, followed by London with 0.5 per cent.
However, the region did experience a change for the worse in A* to C grades since 2015, down 2.1 per cent from last year’s 67.2 per cent.
The overall drop in GCSE grades is being blamed on the significant number of pupils aged 17 or over being required to resit English and maths. An extra 31,038 entries for English and 42,649 in maths have skewed this year’s results, as candidates resitting these exams have achieved significantly lower grades than their younger counterparts taking the exam for the first time.
Mike Parker, director of SCHOOLS NorthEast, said: “Nationally, schools were expecting mixed results and this year’s GCSEs are a reflection of the impact that ‘one-size-fits-all’ government policies can have on education.
“There are significant issues stemming from this year’s results that need addressing. The gender gap has widened further, with far more girls achieving grade C or above than boys. The choice of subjects remains heavily divided, continuing to fuel gender stereotypes; a far greater proportion of boys chose STEM-related (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, while girls showed a heavy inclination toward humanities and social sciences.
“The Government’s emphasis on the English Baccalaureate and the new Progress 8 assessment criteria seem to be putting schools off teaching more creative and vocational subjects. The Government should reconsider their approach and make sure they provide all pupils with the opportunity to excel, whether it is in English and maths or design and technology.”

GCSE RESULTS: North East schools buck trend


The sharp drop in GCSE grades nationally does not mirror the regional picture, with top grades in the North East seeing the smallest change.


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Volunteers at the Blyth Tall Ship Regatta have been thanked for their efforts, which have helped make the festival 'an outstanding success'.
The helpers have included ship, event and technical liaison officers; and hospitality and town hosts. James Stevens, from race organisers Sail Training International, praised their efforts.
The Blyth Tall Ship volunteers.
He said: "Sail Training International travels to ports all over Europe and the volunteers have been up there with the absolute best we have ever seen. They were clearly well briefed and they have been friendly, efficient, positive and incredibly hard working.
"We've been talking to the volunteers and we've heard about the long hours they have put in, the extra personal efforts they have made and the many miles they have walked. The ships, trainees and the visiting public have all said that the volunteers have been amazing.
"They have been great ambassadors, not just for Blyth but also Northumberland, and given the event its heart. They should be very proud of what they have achieved and their contribution to the outstanding success of the event."
Volunteer Melanie Gray, who was in the crew centre, said she was very proud to be part of the event, while fellow helper Liz Finch, who was part of the crew services team, said the festival had attracted 'so many people' and believes it will encourage visitors to come back and explore more of the area.
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Volunteers at the Blyth Tall Ship Regatta have been thanked for their efforts, which have helped make the festival


Blyth Tall Ship volunteers praised for their efforts


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The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta reached its climax today with a stunning Parade of Sail.
The majestic Tall Ships set sail from Blyth this afternoon, in what was a fitting finale to the four-day nautical extravaganza the town has hosted over the bank holiday weekend.
One of the Tall Ships in the Parade of Sail.
The ships started to leave the port at about 12.45pm. The fleet set sail south along the coast towards St Mary’s Lighthouse before heading to a point several miles off the coast to prepare for the race start to Gothenburg, Sweden.
Ships in the Parade of Sail included Dar Mlodziezy, of Poland, which was the largest vessel at the regatta; the Shtandart, from Russia, which is a replica of the 1703 frigate built by Peter the Great; and Lord Nelson, from Hartlepool.

WATCH: Tall Ships leave Blyth in spectacular Parade of Sail


The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta reached its climax today with a stunning Parade of Sail.


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Two junior members of a Morpeth amateur dramatics group have been nominated for awards.


The parking management system is to go live at The Northumbria hospital, Cramlington, at 6am on Thursday.
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s parking system will allow patients and visitors to pay on exit with many options to pay as the payment machines take coins and notes, as well as credit and debit cards.
The first 20 minutes of parking is free so if a patient/visitor takes a ticket and exits the car park within 20 minutes, there will be no charge. The charge for more than 20 minutes up to 24 hours from the time the ticket is issued will cost a flat fee of £1.
Patients and visitors using the car park from Thursday onwards will take a ticket to raise the barrier to gain entry to the car park. They will then use this ticket to pay at a pay station before leaving.
There will be no change for blue disabled badge holders who are exempt from charges.


The parking management system is to go live at The Northumbria hospital, Cramlington, at 6am on Thursday.


Another company has signed up to offer support to the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, due to be held in Blyth at the end of the month.
EDF Energy Renewables has recently started construction work on a new offshore wind farm to be located around 6km off the Blyth coast, connecting to a new substation being built on the site of the former Blyth Power Station.
Work has already begun on the new substation and marine surveys are being carried out at sea ahead of construction work starting next year on the installation of the project’s five offshore wind turbines.
Matthieu Hue, chief executive of EDF Energy Renewables, said: “We are aware of Blyth’s rich maritime history and we are delighted to support the visit of the Tall Ships.
“The new Blyth offshore wind farm is an important development for us and wherever we operate we always try to be a strong partner for the local economy and to support local communities.
“I am sure this will be a spectacular and memorable event and it provides a great opportunity for us to mark the start of our project and our involvement in the local area.
“We hope everyone has a fantastic time during the festival.”
The Blyth offshore wind farm will be EDF Energy Renewables’ second offshore wind farm following the Teesside project off the north east coast at Redcar.
Marcel Sunier, project director for the Blyth Offshore Wind Farm, said: “The Port of Blyth will be used during the commissioning of the wind farm and for operations and maintenance activities when complete.
“I am sure the visit of the Tall Ships will be a special celebration and something that we are delighted to be associated with.”
When operational, the Blyth offshore wind farm will provide enough low carbon electricity to meet the annual needs of around 33,000 homes.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth confirmed as the Principal Sponsor.
Coun Val Tyler, Cabinet member for Arts, Leisure and Culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Tall Ships rely on wind power for most of their energy and the renewables industry is an increasingly important part of our Northumberland economy.
“We are delighted to have EDF Energy Renewables as a sponsor for the Regatta.”
At its peak there will be around 200 people working on the Blyth offshore wind farm and the project will incorporate a number of new and innovative construction features.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “We are delighted to be supporting EDF Energy Renewables in the development of Blyth Offshore Wind Farm and look forward to being partners with them for decades to come.
“EDF ER sponsoring the Tall Ships Regatta is great news and will only enhance this major event.”
The Tall Ships Regatta Blyth 2016 takes place over the weekend of August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Powering up more support for Regatta


Another company has signed up to offer support to the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, due to be held in Blyth at the end of the month.


‘I’m very impressed with Blyth’ - that’s the verdict of the race chairman for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.
Speaking to us earlier today, James Stevens, from organisers Sail Training International, said: “Blyth has done us proud, they’ve been really, really good and very welcoming. The whole town has thrown itself into doing this, which is great.
“It looks great too. I have got to say, I came to Blyth 30 years ago and they have done wonders to the waterfront. They have tried really hard and having the Tall Ships there just gives the perfect backdrop. I’m very impressed with Blyth; it’s an industrial port, but they have opened their doors to us.”
And talking about the regatta and how it works, Mr Stevens underlined how the 600-mile race across the North Sea from Blyth, Northumberland, to Gothenburgh, Sweden, is really a youth event.
“Half the crews, half of all the trainees are young people under the age of 25, a lot of them haven’t sailed before and some of them are from quite disadvantaged backgrounds,” he said. “Some of them are sponsored by Blyth and some of them are paid for by Gothenburg.
“Most of them haven’t sailed at all so they’ll probably be pretty anxious now, wondering what they have let themselves in for, but that’s all part of it and you find that they look anxious now but when they get to Gothenburg, they’ll be three inches taller and part of a team.
“You can’t sail these ships unless you all pull the rope at the same time. It’s not going to work unless the crew are doing their jobs.
“It’s absolutely miles away from anything they have done before and the captains say that when they get out of mobile-phone coverage, they suddenly gel into a team. They can’t get on Facebook so then that (sailing the ship) becomes their life.”
But these events don’t just happen overnight with Mr Stevens describing the job of organising the regatta as ‘massive’.
“It starts several years in advance, about four or five years, so now Sail Training International is looking at events in 2020/2021,” he said. “It also takes a whole army of volunteers – I think we have about 60 or 70 here – including the liaison officers who meet the ships and help them with getting any food and provisions, if they’ve got problems, find out where the chandler’s shop is, any gas or water or fuel - all that has to be dealt with.”

TALL SHIPS: ‘Blyth has done us proud’, says race chairman


‘I’m very impressed with Blyth’ - that’s the verdict of the race chairman for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.


Early results indicate that half of Northumberland’s 16 secondary/high schools achieved GCSE results above the 2015 national average.
The figures show that close to 60 per cent of pupils achieved A* to C passes in five or more GCSEs, including English and maths.
Coun Robert Arckless, Northumberland County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This is a great achievement. I would like to congratulate all the pupils on their results and thank teachers, support staff and parents for all their hard work.
“They should all feel very proud – and it further reinforces our view that the targeted investment we are putting in to Northumberland schools will help every pupil make the most of their individual talents to set themselves on the path to further success in education, training and employment.
“It was particularly pleasing that some schools which have fought back from weak Ofsted reports are recording continued improvements in their exam grades, while other higher-achieving institutions have built on their earlier success to register even better results.
“We are well aware the job is not complete and the council will constantly strive to ensure all Northumberland pupils have the best possible education.”
Those studying with Northumberland County Council’s adult education service have also had a successful year with more than 60 per cent of learners successfully gaining a grade C or above in English and maths and in other courses achieving 100 per cent success.
The early indications of improved educational outcomes in Northumberland comes as three new school buildings are set to open in Alnwick, Bedlington and Prudhoe. The council also plans to invest a further £57million in new schools and leisure facilities in Ponteland.
Coun Arckless added: “Northumberland County Council is working hard to make great places even better; investing in schools and our young people’s education and their future is a key priority for us.
“We currently have one of the largest capital investment programmes in schools across the UK – investing over £100million to create the best possible environment for our young people to learn and develop the knowledge and skills needed for the future.”

GCSE RESULTS: Success for Northumberland schools


Early results indicate that half of Northumberland’s 16 secondary/high schools achieved GCSE results above the 2015 national average.


Health services are working with organisers to ensure the right NHS services are available during the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
Thousands of visitors are expected to visit Blyth during the Tall Ships event, with local NHS officials reminding people to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water and apply sun cream during hot or humid weather.
A number of first aid posts will be based on the Tall Ships site throughout the event to help deal with any minor injuries and a range of other NHS services are available.
People are also being urged to plan ahead and order any repeat prescriptions they will need well in advance from their GP for the bank holiday weekend.
Local pharmacies will be open during the weekend.
There will be road and parking restrictions, as well as a one-way system in place during the event however emergency access and access for community, social care staff and carers for home visits will be maintained at all times.
Organisers and health providers are advising people to enjoy themselves and to be safe in the sun or the water.
Dr Alistair Blair, chief clinical officer for Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “The Tall Ships Regatta promises to be a fantastic event for people living locally and visitors and we want everyone to enjoy themselves and stay safe.
“We’d urge people to look after themselves by keeping well hydrated, applying sunscreen and sticking to shaded areas where possible and as we do not know what the weather will throw at us, be prepared for all eventualities and bring extra layers and waterproofs.
“If drinking alcohol, we would advise people to do so in moderation and drink water regularly.
“As with all bank holidays, we’d urge people to plan ahead and make sure they have all the medications they need for the weekend. It you need more over-the-counter medication or advice from a pharmacist, it’s worth remembering that there are pharmacies open all weekend, including bank holiday Monday.
“NHS 111 is available 24/7 as normal for urgent medical advice and we’d ask people to use the NHS wisely and leave urgent and emergency care services for those who need them most.”
Coun Val Tyler, Cabinet member for Arts, Leisure and Culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are expecting lots of residents and visitors in Blyth for this incredibly exciting event and we would like everyone to have an enjoyable and healthy weekend.
“Traffic controls will be in place to ease congestion and emergency access will be maintained at all times, including to the hospital and GP services in Blyth.
“Our Park and Ride car parks will have regular shuttle buses that will take visitors to the heart of the Regatta and tickets can be booked now at a discounted rate via the Tall Ships website.”
Limited Blue Badge parking is available but must be pre-booked by calling Ticketline on 0161 832 1111.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “We want visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta to have a great visit and we echo the advice of health services for people to have a great weekend and to take sensible precautions such as preparing for the weather.”
Up to 30 Tall Ships are expected to gather at Blyth for the event which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment, including nightly fireworks.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Health services to be in place throughout Regatta


Health services are working with organisers to ensure the right NHS services are available during the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.


A performing arts academy for people with learning disabilities and autism will start in Morpeth next month.


Another quartet of top comics will be in action at Nottingham’s Glee Club.
Performing there on both Friday and Saturday (September 2-3) will be Paul Tonkinson, Luke Toulson, Martin Mor, and John Lynn.
Later in the month - September 15 to be precise - there’s a hometown gig for rising star Matt Forde. Matt is familiar from his many radio and appearances and is to get his own series on comedy channel in the very near future.
Glee Club Nottingham is based at The Waterfront, off Canal Street, in the city centre.
For bookings and enquiries at the venue, you can call 0871 472 0400.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story Tonkinson and co raise laughs at Glee Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area...


Another quartet of top comics will be in action at Nottingham’s Glee Club.


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This video footage of a giant house spider was sent to us by one of our readers.
The creepy-crawly’s glaring eyes alerted our reader to its presence on a curtain in her living room.
This giant house spider was safely released back into the open.
The eight-legged friend fell from the curtain and scuttled across the floor after she turned the light on.
Giant house spiders, which can grow up to 12cm in length, tend to head indoors to find a place to mate during the hot summer weather.
They are more commonly found in gardens and sheds.
They are not harmful to humans, although they can give you a ‘nip’.
This spider could only just squeeze inside a pint glass before being safely released outside.
Click to watch the video.

VIDEO: Are we about to be invaded by giant horny house spiders?


This video footage of a giant house spider was sent to us by one of our readers.