A CRUEL dog owner has been jailed after letting his pet starve to death in “deplorable conditions”.

When bailiffs forced their way into Alan Smith’s flat in Westmorland Court, Hebburn, to serve an eviction notice, they found his mastiff Sam lying dead in a living room surrounded by dog dirt and rubbish.

They also found an emaciated Staffordshire bull terrier called Lily in the room, which South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard had only survived by eating flesh from the dead dog.

The bailiffs called in the RSPCA who took the surviving dog to a vet and had a post-mortem examination carried out on the mastiff, which revealed both dogs had been starved of food and water for about a month. Smith, 30, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the mastiff by failing to give it a nutritious diet.

He appeared by videolink as he is already serving a three-year prison sentence for an unrelated crime.

No charges were brought regarding the terrier, after Smith told magistrates it belonged to his girlfriend.

Denise Jackman, prosecuting on behalf of the RSPCA, said: “When the bailiff opened the door to the living room, a small dog ran out and went to the toilet to drink water.

“A large emaciated dog was dead in the corner of the room. The smaller dog had been living off the corpse, as half of its face was missing.

“The room was strewn with faeces, empty beer cans and other rubbish. Both dogs were almost skeletal.”

Photographs of the dead dog were handed to magistrates, which the Gazette has seen but decided not to print because of their distressing nature.

A statement from Smith’s ex-girlfriend was read out in court, which said they had lived together at the flat but that she moved out two months before the dogs were found and they were in good health when she left.

Smith told magistrates he thought his ex was looking after Sam.

But David Hatfield, defending, told the court Smith had moved out of the flat and a friend was looking after the animals.

Mr Hatfield said: “He lived in the flat but had let it to a friend, and had made arrangements that he would also look after the dog that subsequently died.

“He was a trustworthy man and it seems he did indeed look after it for a period of time, and it was only in the last month that it was subject to significant cruelty.”

Magistrates heard that Lily had now been nursed back to health.

Chairman of the bench Harry Metcalfe said: “The dog lived in deplorable conditions.”

Smith was jailed for 17 weeks, to run alongside his current sentence. He was also banned from looking after animals for 10 years.

Speaking after the case, RSPCA Inspector Claire Hunt said: “This was an extremely shocking and upsetting case.

“It is sad that one dog died, but we’re happy the other dog found in the house has new owners and has plenty of time to enjoy a loving home.

“Smith being jailed is a very good result for us.”

South Tyneside Chief Inspector Brian Walker added: “This was a particularly shocking case involving a defenceless animal who was left to fend for itself, ultimately resulting in its death.

“We condemn anyone who would intentionally cause harm to an animal and work closely with the RSPCA to put offenders before the court.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazCrime

WORRIED residents have been given a personal assurance from the man behind a plan to convert an historic South Tyneside building.

Concern had been expressed after it emerged that vacant Wyvestow Lodge in Sunderland Road, South Shields, was to be converted to an 18-bed ‘house in multiple occupation’.

But members of South Tyneside Council’s planning committee gave the plan the go-ahead after being told the former government building was earmarked for student accommodation.

People living near the listed Victorian building had been concerned over the ‘vagueness’ of the original application.

They believed it could leave the property open to conversion into a drug and alcohol rehabilitation unit.

At a meeting of the planning committee this week, residents’ fears were raised by Independent Alliance councillor Ahmed Khan.

The Beacon and Bents ward representative said: “I would not be able to support this unless we know the potential people who will occupy it.”

It led to an intervention by the applicant, Paul Brown, of Wharton Street, South Shields.

Mr Brown said the intention was for the premises to house mature marine students from South Tyneside College.

He told the committee: “I can give an assurance that I have no plans for a rehabilitation unit.”

Members gave the application the green light.

A SOUTH Tyneside yard will make waves when it stars in a TV documentary about a ferry contract.

The refit of the 180ft P&O ferry Pride of Bruges is being filmed at A&P Tyne, Hebburn.

A crew from Lion TV, which produces the television favourite Horrible Histories, was given access to the yard to film work on North Sea and Channel ferries.

Due to be screened on BBC2 later this year, the documentary will be called Inside The Machine.

Director Chris Mitchell, said: “It’s a series of three one-hour long programmes looking at machines and how they work, by getting inside and taking them apart.

“We’re featuring a British Airways jumbo, a P&O ferry and an oil and gas rig.

“Most people have been on a ferry, most have been on a plane, but they don’t know what makes them work. They take them for granted.

“We’re talking about engineering and technology in a way the public can understand.

“There’s some substantial work going on at A&P, involving propellors and the big end of the engine.

“We’ll be climbing inside the bowels of the ship, finding out how everything works and exploring parts in detail.”

The Hebburn yard has been busy since last month with a P&O contract to refit the cross-Channel ferry the Pride of Canterbury, plus North Sea ferries the Pride of York and the Pride of Bruges, which is the biggest project, involving a large amount of steel renewal work.

The contract also involves the overhaul of sea valves, propulsion machinery, general essential underwater maintenance work, preparation and painting.

The Pride of Bruges, which can carry 850 cars, is due to leave the borough yard on March 10.

Martin Robertson, sales and marketing manager at A&P Tyne, said: “It’s exciting to have the film crew here during the Pride of Bruges project.

“They’ll be looking at what it takes to keep the ferries in top condition, and they’ll see the dedication of the workforce here to make that happen.

“A&P Tyne has been welcoming P&O Ferries to the yard for many years, and as a result we have an intimate knowledge of them.

“It’s great to see the vessels coming in, they’re so familiar to people – especially those of us who are used to travelling on them.”

A&P Tyne has the biggest dry dock on England’s east coast, and filming included the ferry being secured with large blocks while the A&P workforce, dwarfed by the 6,748 deadweight tonne vessel, moved swiftly to repair the damage done by months out at sea.

P&O spokesman, Brian Rees, said: “The filming gives a great opportunity to show what it is easy to take for granted – the technical skill and experience that is vital for companies such as A&P and P&O.

“There isn’t much glamour in a shipyard or ship’s engine room, and it isn’t easy to convey the intricacies of what is going on to people with no technical background.

“Hopefully, this series will fly the flag for those people the customer doesn’t get to see – those who keep the show on the road.”

Twitter: @shieldsgazette

TENANTS have given St Clare’s Hospice a fundraising boost.

Fundraisers at Glenthorpe House, South Shields, handed over a £100 cheque to the Jarrow hospice after raising money through activities including social evenings, coffee mornings and raffles.

Tenant Elizabeth Smith said: “It is very important to support St Clare’s, as they make such a huge difference to people’s lives.”

Frederick Burr added: “We hope this donation makes a difference to the lives of people being cared for in the hospice and we would like to support St Clare’s again in the future.”

Vanessa Mustard-Wright, corporate fundraiser for St Clare’s Hospice, said: “We were very touched to receive a cheque from the tenants at Glenthorpe House.  

“They have raised a fantastic amount, which enables us to continue providing specialist palliative care to our patients when they need it most.

“We are celebrating our 25th anniversary throughout this year, and hope others will follow the example shown by the tenants.”

South Tyneside Homes, which manages the supported housing scheme in West Stevenson Street, became a corporate partner with St Clare’s Hospice in 2009.

Since then, staff and tenants have come together to raise almost £13,000 through events including sponsored bike rides and car boot sales.

WHY YOU SHOULD CARE FOR ST CLARE’S

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]]> 1.4272702 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/silly_shoplifter_had_cash_to_pay_for_things_he_stole_1_4273775

A SHOPLIFTER who stole sweets, toothpaste and a toilet freshener worth just £3 was branded as “silly” by magistrates.

Robert Walls was caught on CCTV eating the sweets and pocketing the other goods as he made his way around Asda in South Shields.

The 33-year-old, of Finchale Road, Hebburn, was stopped by police on his way out of the store – after paying £18 for other items.

South Tyneside Magistrates’ were told that Walls had no idea why he stole the items when he had enough money to pay for them. He admitted a charge theft.

Prosecutor, Paul Donay, said: “A security guard in Asda saw the defendant with various items in a trolley, and eating sweets out of a bag he had picked up in the store.

“He then put a tube of toothpaste and a toilet freshener in his pocket, and went to pay for the goods in the trolley. He made no attempt to pay for the things in his pocket or the sweets.”

Peter Hammill, defending, said: “He was in the store to get some shopping, and bought £18 worth of goods.

“He has no idea why he took £3 worth of items when he had enough money to pay for them.”

Chairman of the bench, Tony Brown, said: “This was a silly thing to do.”

Walls was given a conditional discharge for 12 months.

RON Cameron has volunteered at South Tyneside Hospital Radio for the last 26 years.

Now his fellow volunteers are hoping his efforts will be recognised after he was nominated in this year’s Pride of South Tyneside awards.

The 42-year-old, from Boldon, is up for Role Model of the Year.

He said: “Actually, I was quite flabbergasted with the nomination, because I consider myself to be part of a team at Radio South Tyneside. I’d be nothing without the team working together.”

The volunteer-run station, of which Mr Cameron is chairman, has been broadcasting at South Tyneside District Hospital in Harton Lane, South Shields, and the former Ingham Infirmary, for the past 55 years.

He hopes to branch out into the online world, so people can listen away from the hospital wards.

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/make_your_nomination_for_pride_of_south_tyneside_now_1_4204552|Do you know someone South Tyneside should be proud of? Nominate them by following this link.|Do you know someone South Tyneside should be proud of? Nominate them by following this link.}

Mr Cameron was nominated by fellow presenter David Johnson, who said: “Ron has helped and guided me on the hospital radio for three years, giving me self-confidence and experience in presenting my own show.

“I feel that he is a good role model, as I have also used these skills in my day-to-day experiences.

“Ron does a lot of work in the volunteer sector in South Tyneside, and has shown me that in order to get out of the community you must put into it first.

“If it wasn’t for Ron, I might not have been given some of the chances I have today.”

Mr Cameron added: “It’s an honour to be thought of in this way. I do this on a voluntary basis, and it does take up a lot of time, but I do it because I love it, and it feels very worthwhile.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVicki

A BLAZE which destroyed three cars and other property after ripping through the gardens of three South Tyneside homes was accidental, say fire experts.

An investigation was launched after a dozen firefighters were called to the blaze in Sunderland Road, Harton, South Shields, in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The original call reported a shed on fire but when firefighters arrived at the scene, they found three cars, carports, a shed, trees and fencing ablaze.

At its height, the fire could be seen from all over the area.

Firefighters today said the most probable cause of the fire was “accidental”.

Neville Charlton, station manager for South Shields, said: “After an investigation into the blaze, the most probable cause was accidental.

“There was no evidence of a break-in or theft, and no signs of it being a deliberate act.”

Yesterday, neighbours told of their shock at being woken to find a huge fire only yards from their homes.

They described the blaze as “unbelievable” and “horrendous”.

Mr Charlton added: “The crews on the night did extremely well to stop the fire from spreading any further.

“It was quite a difficult place to get to and tackle the blaze.”

A MAN has been arrested today on suspicion of rape in South Shields.

The suspect, believed to be in his 20s, is being questioned by detectives investigating an attack on a woman, also in her 20s.

It is believed the man and his alleged victim were known to each other.

It is understood the attack took place in fields near the Temple Park Centre on Monday.

THEY weren’t up for any awards – but Little Mix still picked up a new fan at last night’s Brit Awards.

The band – including South Shields girls Perrie Edwards and Jade Thirlwall – enjoyed the red carpet treatment as they attended the star-studded bash at London’s O2 Arena.

Among those performing was Noel Gallagher, and Perrie later revealed that the former Oasis star’s 12-year-old daughter, Anais, is a fan of the X Factor winners.

She tweeted: “Knowing Noel Gallagher’s daughter is a fan made our night.”

Adele and Ed Sheeran both scooped two Brit awards, with Coldplay, Rihanna and Blur also honoured.

LABOUR MPs are calling on Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley to reconsider his decision to scrap the name St James’s Park.

The 12 MPs, including Jarrow’s Stephen Hepburn, have signed a House of Commons motion which describes the change to Sports Direct Arena as “corporate vandalism”.

Ashley caused outrage among fans in November, when he announced that the stadium, which had been called St James’s Park for 119 years, was being re-branded.

Anger among fans grew last week when workmen removed the famous metal sign from outside the stadium.

Yesterday MPs from across the North East, and as far afield as Mansfield and Derby, signed a motion to the Commons, which says: “That this house deeply regrets the decision to re-brand the historic home of Newcastle United Football Club, St James’s Park, and condemns the corporate vandalism perpetrated by the club’s owners in removing the name St James’s Park from the stadium.”

The motion mentions concerns raised by Virgin Money, the club’s new shirt sponsor, about the name change, and Newcastle City Council’s refusal to change road signs directing motorists to the ground.

The motion is signed by Labour MPs Ian Mearns, Pat Glass, Catherine McKinnell, Chi Onwurah, Nick Brown, Ian Lavery, Dennis Skinner, David Anderson, Mary Glindon, Stephen Hepburn, Alex Cunningham and Sir Alan Meale.

A spokesman for Newcastle City Council said: “Many thousands of fans have made their opposition to the name-change very clear, and the city council is sad to see the club follow through on its decision to rename St James’s Park.

“We’ve already said we won’t be changing any signage around the city centre and, no matter what the signage says, it will always be St James’s Park to the people of Newcastle.”

The club declined to comment on the issue today.

Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe

THE life of one of South Tyneside’s greatest public servants has been celebrated by his family and friends.

It was standing room only at St Peter’s Church in Harton yesterday for the funeral service of Coun Jim Capstick, the borough’s longest-serving councillor.

Speakers were even placed outside to relay the service to mourners standing in the church grounds.

Coun Capstick, who represented Harton for the Progressives, died last week at his home in Glenhurst Grove, South Shields, at the age of 80.

A devoted family man, his casket was carried into the church by his two sons, Jim and Howard, and his two grandsons, Daniel and Paul, a sergeant in the Royal Artillery.

The service was very much an affectionate celebration of Coun Capstick’s life.

Coun Iain Malcolm, the Labour leader of South Tyneside Council, bid a fond farewell to the ‘father of the council’.

Quoting Shakespeare, Coun Malcolm said ‘we will not look upon his like again’, and reflected on Coun Capstick’s 45 years as a councillor, the pride he had in his family and the hundreds of thousands of pounds he helped raise for good causes as a freemason.

Coun Malcolm added: “Jim had a love for his home town, a compassion for his fellow human being and a calm common sense.”

In November last year that Coun Capstick was bestowed a Freeman of South Tyneside.

“He left us knowing how loved and respected he was”, Coun Malcolm said.

Daughter Jacqueline Nolan recalled her fun-loving dad who left behind ‘wonderful happy times and memories’ of fishing trips, caravan holidays, walking in the hills of Hexham – and scaring his children witless during a Hammer House of Horror movie.

Mrs Nolan said that through it all Coun Capstick always repeated his life-long approach to parenting: “It’s OK, it’s character building!”

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Jim Sewell, read a message from the people of the borough’s twin town, Wuppertal in Germany, to which Coun Capstick was a regular and much-welcome visitor over the years.

Grandson Paul Rowley went on to read one of his beloved grandfather’s favourite poems, If, by Rudyard Kipling, including the famous lines which could have applied to his grandad: “If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs.”

Family and friends, including Coun Capstick’s wife Elma and their children – Jim, Jac, Howard, Adrienne and Judith – went on to his committal at South Shields Crematorium, followed by refreshments at South Shields Town Hall.

Twitter: @ ShieldsGazPaul

YOUNG footballers with a strong community spirit have signed up for a season of fundraising for a South Tyneside charity.

Members of Hebburn Town Juniors FC plan to raise cash for St Clare’s Hospice, Jarrow, throughout 2012.

Young players from the club made a big cash splash for the hospice after taking part in the annual Boxing Day dip in the North Sea, raising £700 for patient care.

Club officials say they plan to stage a number of fundraising events on behalf of the hospice, whose annual running costs have risen to about £2m.

Club chairman Stephen Rutherford, who presented hospice fundraiser Vanessa Mustard-Wright with a cheque for £700, said: “St Clare’s has touched so many of our club members’ friends and family that we felt it appropriate to support where we can.

“Our club is a community-based football club, with the emphasis on ‘community,’ so helping St Clare’s is a privilege and we hope to make this a more regular occurrence.”

WHY YOU SHOULD CARE FOR ST CLARE’S

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Vanessa said: “We were delighted to receive a cheque for £700 from Stephen on behalf of Hebburn Town Juniors FC.

“We hope to continue working with the club in the future and would like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported them.”

The hospice is finalising its fundraising calendar for 2012, which will include events such as a Midnight Walk, It’s a Knockout and other charity ventures, as it marks its 25th anniversary in South Tyneside.

Hebburn Town Juniors FC is based at Clegwell CA, in Mountbatten Avenue, Hebburn, offering sporting opportunities to players aged four to 21.

For more details, visit the club’s website at hebburntownjuniorsfc.co.uk or e-mail chairman@hebburntownjuniorsfc.co.uk.

To support St Clare’s Hospice, call 451 6400 or e-mail fundraising@stclareshospice.co.uk.

Twitter: @shieldsgazette.

THE Geordie Pantsman is calling on kind-hearted tradesmen to help transform a historic girl guides’ building.

The architect, and former Britain’s Got Talent star, needs building materials to renovate the Victorian structure in Westoe Road, South Shields.

It has been home to the Girl Guides Association’s South Shields division since 1971, but has become run-down in recent years.

In November Gary Craig, of Fulmar Walk, Whitburn, appealed for tradesmen in South Tyneside to volunteer their labour for free.

A number of local businesses have come forward, but the 52-year-old says materials and equipment are still needed for the project.

The building needs a new kitchen and flooring, while painting, decorating, plumbing and electrical work is also needed.

He said: “We are starting to make progress, and we now have people on board. What we really need now is donations of building materials such as copper piping, heating system components, plaster board, floor joists, electrical and shower fittings.

“If there is a kitchen being taken out of somewhere, which could be re-used, we would be grateful for it.

“Most builders have bits and pieces left over when they finish a job, and we could make good use of them.”

South Tyneside Homes has offered to support the scheme, which has the backing of the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside, Coun Jim Sewell and his wife, Rosemary.

The South Tyneside Business Forum is also encouraging firms to play their part in the project, and Mr Craig said he was delighted with the response from the community.

He added: “It really is a community effort, and about half a dozen businesses have got involved. All we need is for people to do a little bit, and eventually we will get there. We’ve had offers for fire doors and flooring, but we need to get the other work done before we lay a new floor.”

When the renovation is complete, the facility will benefit brownies (aged seven to 10), guides (10 to 14) and the senior section (14 to 24), who all use the building for meetings and activities.

Better known as the Geordie Pantsman, Mr Craig is a self-employed architect.

He scooped a Guinness World Record in 2010 for pulling on 211 pairs of underpants, and appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in April last year.

Anyone interested in getting involved with the renovation project, call Mr Craig on 529 4964 or e-mail gcarchservices@tiscali.co.uk

Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe

WORK to improve hundreds of council homes across South Tyneside is reaching new heights.

South Tyneside Homes is spending £1.8m to replace more than 500 roofs in Whitburn, South Shields, Hebburn, Jarrow, Biddick Hall and Horsley Hill.

Homes in the programme could also benefit from improvements including new or upgraded loft insulation, soffits and fascias, and repointed chimneys.

The aim is to make the homes warmer and reduce the need for future maintenance and repairs.

The roof replacement work is being carried out on behalf of South Tyneside Homes by Esh Property Services and their roofing contractors.

Mark Whittle, director of investment at South Tyneside Homes, said: “The roof replacement programme is part of our ongoing work to bring all council homes in the borough up to the Decent Homes Programme standard.

“It not only improves the external appearance, but it also reduces the costs associated with ongoing repairs and maintenance work to the roofs.”

This stage of the roof replacement programme is due to be completed by the end of next month.

RESIDENTS in Boldon Colliery are being urged to keep the River Don tidy.

Volunteers from the area took part in a clean-up of the river between Boldon Drive and Owen Drive on Saturday as part of a habitat improvement project by Living Waterways.

The scheme, which is co-managed by South Tyneside Council, aims to reshape part of the river to prevent flooding and protect wildlife.

In the run-up to the clean-up day, project leaders from Living Waterways went into West Boldon Primary and Boldon Schools to deliver education sessions about the project and try to attract more volunteers.

Project manager Michael Rogers, from Durham Wildlife Trust, said he was delighted with the 11 people who turned up to help clear up the river and hoped it inspires others to follow suit.

He said: “The day went really well. We had a good turnout and we cleaned up a decent stretch of the river. Everyone passing should be able to see the difference.

“Hopefully, when people see how clean it is, it will inspire them to keep it that way.”

Some of the rubbish hauled out of the river included a shopping trolley and a wooden mantelpiece.

Mr Rogers added: “Some of the things in there you wouldn’t believe. But the important thing is that some residents in the area are dedicated to cleaning it up.

“I want to thank everyone who turned out. It would be great to do it every day but, of course, that’s not possible.”

He added: “The involvement of local schools has also been particularly inspiring and shows just how much interest there is in the wildlife that inhabits the River Don and how it can be enjoyed by all.

“It is all part of work to reduce flooding and protect the wildlife.

“Removing rubbish from the river helps reduce blockages and make it a better habitat for animals.”

The project will be holding a craft fair in Boldon Community Association in New Road, on March 31.

For more information or to get involved in the project, call Mr Rogers on 584 3112 or e-mail mrogers@durhamwt.co.uk.

Twitter: @ShieldsGazCrime

A MAN smashed a window of his mum’s house after she woke him up and told him to get a job.

South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard how Christopher Storey slept in for his appointment at the job centre last Thursday.

And when the 21-year-old’s mother realised he was still in bed, she ripped the covers off him and told him to get a move on.

Storey, of Fieldway, Jarrow, started shouting and swearing before storming out of the house and smashing a window.

He pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage.

Ian Simpson, prosecuting, said: “His mother went into his room and told him to get moving, and sign on.

“He swore at her, and called her an idiot. They continued to argue, and she went upstairs and shut herself in her room, and said she was going to call the police.

“He went outside and smashed a window before trying to pull the garden gate off its hinges.

“When apprehended he said, if he was going to get arrested, he wanted it to be for a reason.”

Christopher Brown, defending, said: “His mum was trying to get him up. We’ve all been in the situation once in our lives when we’ve had to be cajoled into doing something by our parents.

“Perhaps being a bit of a sleepyhead at that time of day, and being bad tempered, he didn’t appreciate his mother pulling the bedsheets off him.

“He used some short words with her, but he would say she overreacted by shutting herself in her room. Although, he has to accept that he too was being unreasonable.”

The court heard that Storey was given a conditional discharge on Monday after admitting a shoplifting charge.

Magistrates fined Storey £65 and ordered him to pay £30 compensation to repair the window, and £50 court costs.

Chairman of the bench, Keith Ahmed, said: “This is not on, really. You need to get up and sign on.

“If you don’t, your dole will stop and your payments to the court will stop. Then you could end up in prison.

“Keep your nose clean and don’t be silly.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazCrime

A £6.7M sports complex, set to be used by Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls, has opened in the North East.

The complex, which expands existing facilities at Durham University’s Maiden Castle site, was opened yesterday by Hugh Robertson. the Minister for Sport and the Olympics.

Among the features is a powered indoor rowing tank, the first in the region.

It also has an extended sports hall which can be used for indoor cricket, three dedicated physiotherapy treatment rooms, and a multi-purpose dance studio.

The complex will be used for training by the Sri Lankan badminton team before the London Olympics.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Chris Higgins, said: “We are immensely proud to be able to contribute to the sporting legacy of the 2012 Olympics through the opening of these new facilities.”

Mr Robertson said: “Durham University has a strong sporting tradition, and this new state-of-the-art centre will help confirm this in the years ahead.

“This fantastic facility will provide world-class sports facilities for elite athletes and community users alike, and help more people to take up sport.”

Sport England contributed £500,000 to the cost of the complex, which will also be available for use by students and the public.

]]> 1.4271585 Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:14:52 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/primary_schools_moving_in_right_direction_1_4271025

SOUTH Tyneside’s education boss believes more schools in the borough will get controversial academy status.

Coun Jim Foreman’s warning came as it emerged that none of South Tyneside’s primary schools will be converted into academies because they are “miles ahead” of the Government’s worst performing list.

The Department for Education is set to make 200 failing primary schools across the country into academies in a bid to drive up standards, meaning they will be directly funded by the Government and managed independently from local authority control.

But none of the borough’s 44 primary schools, which performed among the best in the country at Key Stage Two last year, are included on the list.

Coun Foreman, South Tyneside Council’s lead member for children, young people, and families, said: “Our schools are proving that we are moving in the right direction in South Tyneside. We are miles ahead of the bottom 200.

“I am delighted with the performance of our primary schools and hopefully they will continue their good work for a long time to come.”

But Coun Foreman believes the Government will eventually create more academy schools in South Tyneside, and fears they could be run by profit-making companies.

At present, the borough has one academy school, after the former Whitburn C of E Comprehensive School in Whitburn changed its status in January 2011.

Coun Foreman’s concerns follow comments made by education secretary Michael Gove last year.

Mr Gove said he had no “particular objection to involving any organisation that is going to improve the country’s education,” but did stress there is currently no need for profit-making companies.

Coun Foreman added: “It is great that our schools are in the position they are currently in, but I still believe the Government will eventually create more academies.

“Using profit-making companies is something I do not want to see. It would be the first step of privatisation.

“Education is something we should continue to invest in, not look to make a profit from.

“My priority is to make sure our children get the best education possible, because these young people are our future.”

In December last year, the Gazette reported how primary school pupils across the borough scored top marks in the 2011 Key Stage Two exams, which test children in English, maths, reading and writing.

Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe

STAFF at a South Tyneside landmark have welcomed their 27,000th visitor to the tourist attraction.

Souter Lighthouse in Whitburn has become a popular tourist draw since it first opened to the public in 1989 and, on Sunday, Sandy Small and his family from Larbert near Falkirk, Scotland, helped the venue achieve the figure.

Property manager Nick Dolan and visitor experience manager Simon Colvine were on hand to count down the numbers.

Mr Small, who was visiting the lighthouse for the first time, said: “We were really impressed.

“It was great to be able to feel we could touch and see how the lighthouse worked.

“The stairs gave us the ‘heebie jeebies’. Everyone was really helpful and informative.”

The lighthouse, was only open for a short time during half-term last week, but will reopen daily from March 10.

Mr Dolan said: “I am delighted that so many people have visited.

“It is an inspirational place and the staff and volunteers work very hard to make it as attractive and family-friendly as possible, provide tasty home-made food and great customer service, and tell the stories of the lighthouse and this coast.”

CHARITY racers made sure Pancake Day didn’t fall flat when they contested the borough’s annual Shrove Tuesday race today.

Crowds gathered in King Street, South Shields, for the pancake race at lunchtime yesterday, which was run to raise cash for Lymphoma Cancer Research.

Five teams, all representing local businesses, took part in the four by 100-metre relay, with each of them carrying a pancake in a frying pan.

Apart from one or two dropped pancakes, the race was keenly contested with runners being cheered-on by shoppers and passers-by.

The event – now in its 12th year – is organised by the Asda store in South Shields, in Coronation Street, and Specsavers, in King Street.

Mavis Maughan, Asda’s community life champion, said: “It has always been a fun race and everyone who took part did so in great spirit.

“There was a lovely atmosphere, and everyone on the street was getting involved and supporting the teams.

“Once again we were lucky with the weather, which is always a bonus, and makes sure that people are keen to take part.”

Gail Miles, in-store trainer at Specsavers, said the event is expected to raise hundreds of pounds for the charity, which was chosen because Sheila Clark, the mother of Specsavers’ director Brian Clark, was recently diagnosed with lymphoma cancer.

Organisers were slightly disappointed that only five teams entered – just one more than last year.

Mrs Maughan added: “There were about three or four businesses who expressed an interest, but didn’t enter. It is a charity event and hopefully we will get a few more entrants next year.”

The race was won by Morrisons supermarket. This was the first year that the store, in Ocean Road, South Shields, had entered a team.

Specsavers were second, and were followed home by Asda South Shields in third place. Asda’s Boldon store was fourth, with the Gazette team fifth.

Ross Serginson, 25, of the Morrisons team, said: “We are pleased we entered. It was a good laugh and we’ve ended up winning the trophy. Hopefully, we can be an incentive for other people to enter next year.”

A raffle is being held to boost the fundraising total, with the draw taking place on Saturday, March 3.

Tickets are available from the Specsavers in King Street, South Shields.

Designer glasses, a food hamper, and other prizes are up for grabs.

Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe

A TALENTED youngster has raised more than £750 for a cancer charity in memory of her tragic dad.

Taylor Bellerby was heartbroken when her dad, Ian, passed away last August aged 34, after a short battle with skin cancer.

But the talented 11-year-old channelled her grief into raising money for South Shields-based charity Cancer Connections by recording a CD of her dad’s favourite songs.

Now, those around her are hoping her hard work will be honoured after she received three nominations for Young Performer(s) of the Year in the Pride of South Tyneside awards.

Taylor, of Bywell Avenue, South Shields, was nominated by her mum, Vicki Pollard, her mum’s partner, Kayleigh Hutchison, and Deborah Roberts, co-founding member of Cancer Connections.

Ms Pollard, 29, said: “Six months ago, Taylor tragically lost her dad to cancer. This came as a massive shock to Taylor and everyone as he was given just 24 hours to live and we had no time to prepare Taylor for her world coming crashing down around her.

“I remember the day I told her, as a mother it was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, and watching her crumble over the days and weeks that followed, knowing nothing I could say or do would make her happy again was just awful.

“However, after the funeral, Taylor took it upon herself to sing the songs her dad loved to hear her perform. She started practising in her bedroom, which was lovely to hear once again, then announced that she wanted to use her gift to help raise money for cancer support.

“I thank my lucky stars every day for blessing me with such a beautiful, caring, talented daughter. Words can’t express how much pride I have in my heart for her.”

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/make_your_nomination_for_pride_of_south_tyneside_now_1_4204552|Do you know someone South Tyneside should be proud of? Nominate them by following this link.|Do you know someone South Tyneside should be proud of? Nominate them by following this link.}

Taylor’s two-track CD, which she sells copies of for £5, features covers of Adele’s version of Make You Feel My Love and I Miss You, by Miley Cyrus.

Mr Bellerby, of Donkins Street, Boldon Colliery, was diagnosed with skin cancer after finding a mole on his leg.

But by the time the popular Boldon CA cricketer visited the doctor, the disease had spread.

Within weeks, it was so advanced that it became irreversible.

Ms Hutchison said: “Having something to focus on helps Taylor cope with the sad loss.

“She has been very brave and with the help of Cancer Connections and her singing, she is at a healthy stage in her grief for her dad. Her family is so proud of her and what she has done.”

Ms Roberts, of the Harton Lane charity, added: “Through all the difficulties Taylor has had to face, she sells her own CDs to raise money for other cancer patients at Cancer Connections.

“Taylor is inspiring and can move you to tears as she sings from the heart.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVicki

AN angry mum claims her toddler was discharged from South Tyneside District Hospital with a broken leg.

Toni Robinson said a consultant diagnosed her 23-month-old daughter, Halliemae Kerrigan, with merely “tissue damage”.

Miss Robinson also says she was advised to put extra pairs of socks on the child’s foot, to ease any soreness.

But after demanding a second opinion, doctors at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, diagnosed the toddler with a green line or surface fracture to the left leg.

And a fortnight after the toddler fell awkwardly against her toy kitchen, she still has a cast on her fractured leg.

Now borough hospital officials are investigating the complaint.

Miss Robinson, 23, of Glasgow Road, the Scotch Estate, Jarrow, said: “I was really annoyed, because my daughter could have been left with a limp.

“But the consultant at South Tyneside Hospital was adamant that it wasn’t a fracture, but just soft tissue damage.

“He said he was a professional, and that I didn’t need to get a second opinion.

“But my daughter was clearly in pain and I drove straight to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where the doctors diagnosed a fracture after taking an X-ray.

“They described a green line bone fracture as like a bamboo stick that has been bent over.”

Miss Robinson, who also has a three-year-old son, Dainjon, added: “I couldn’t understand when South Tyneside Hospital told me to put three pairs of socks on the bairn’s foot.

“Why do that, if nothing was wrong?”

The toddler is still wearing a cast on her left leg, but her mum hopes it will be removed at a clinic at the Gateshead hospital today.

Steve Jamieson, director of service reform and corporate services for South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Halliemae’s mother brought this matter to the attention of the trust on Thursday, and we are in the course of investigating her concerns and will be unable to comment until the investigation is complete.”

Twitter: @shieldsgazette

SUNDERLAND footballer Nicklas Bendtner was banned from driving for 56 days and fined £660 today after admitting speeding at almost 104mph in his Porsche.

The Danish striker was late for a flight from Newcastle Airport when he was caught by a Northumbria Police traffic officer on the A696 dual carriageway, which has a 70mph limit, last December.

Bendtner, who is on loan at Sunderland for a year from his Arsenal, did not appear before Newcastle magistrates for the hearing.

The court was told the 24-year-old was in Denmark for “contractual obligations”.

He was deemed to not be absent from court because he was legally represented at the hearing.

Sarah Robinson, prosecuting, said Bendtner was spotted driving his convertible Porsche 911 Turbo at 103.6mph at 10.53am on Saturday, December 10.

Barry Warburton, defending, said: “I understand he was going to Newcastle Airport, he was slightly late for a flight and unfortunately he speeded.

“It was a Saturday morning, there was very little traffic on the road, and weather conditions were fine.”

Addressing the bench, he added: “Not withstanding the fact he is in Denmark, he has been absolutely no trouble to anybody.

“In my respectful submission, your public duty can be discharged by treating him with leniency.”

The solicitor said his client had “substantial” disposable income, and could pay the fine immediately with a credit card.

Chairman of the bench Edward Wardrobe imposed a 56-day driving ban, and fined the footballer £660, plus £30 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

No penalty points were added to the three Bendtner has on his licence.

A FURIOUS man launched a relentless attack on an ex-soldier in the toilets of a South Tyneside serviceman’s club.

A court heard Raymond Baker became angry when he heard “unacceptable assertions” had been made about him by his girlfriend’s mother’s partner, and phoned the 44-year-old veteran to have it out with him.

When he was told the man was at the Royal British Legion Club in Queen Street, South Shields, he went to confront him.

The 36-year-old followed his victim into the toilets, where, after a struggle, he launched into a barrage of punches and kicks.

Baker, of Bewick Street, South Shields, pleaded guilty to a charge of assault. Paul Donay, prosecuting, told South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court that the fight came after a long-running family feud.

He said: “Baker turned up at the club, and asked here the victim was.

“He was told he was in the toilets, and followed him in.

“He grabbed him, and told him what he thought of the rumours he had been spreading.

“The injured party then punched Baker, before he responded with a barrage of punches.

“The victim then fell to the floor and was kicked.

“Other family members then came into the toilets before the fight was broken up.”

John Roger, defending, said: “There is a long, acrimonious family history.

“My client and the injured party haven’t got along at all. There have been attempts to repair the relationship, but they haven’t worked.

“The injured party made an assertion about my client, which was unacceptable.

“It was the tipping point, and when he found out he was in the club, he went to confront him.

“He grabbed him by the collar and issued threats to him.

“He was then punched, before retaliating.”

Mr Roger told magistrates that Baker now regrets going to the club.

He added: “When he went to the club, realistically there was only ever going to be one outcome – a fight.

“He bitterly regrets it, and since then there has been no trouble.”

Chairman of the bench, Keith Ahmed, adjourned the case until Wednesday at 2pm for probation service reports to be prepared about Baker. He was released on bail until then.

Twitter: @ShieldsGazCrime

CARS and sheds were destroyed in a huge blaze that ripped through the gardens of three properties in South Tyneside in the early hours today.

A dozen firefighters were called to Sunderland Road in Harton, South Shields, at about 1am to tackle a shed blaze.

But when crews from South Shields and Hebburn arrived, they found three cars, two garages, a shed, trees and fencing on fire.

Families were alerted by a neighbour who saw the flames coming from their garden.

Police and fire chiefs have now launched an inquiry into what started the blaze, which could be seen from neighbouring streets.

Richard Short, 61, whose Honda CR-V was one of the vehicles destroyed, said: “It was the neighbour who woke us up.

“When they told us about the fire, my wife went along the hallway and could see a glow through the window. At first, we thought it was a tree on fire.

“The fire seemed to get worse. The car is destroyed. No one has a clue how the fire started.

“We can’t remove the cars until the investigation team has been out – I’m still a bit shocked by the whole thing.”

Another resident, who didn’t want to be named, also lost their car.

He said: “The next-door neighbour woke us up. We sleep at the front of the house, so hadn’t heard a thing, but when we looked out, the whole back lane was ablaze.

“The fire seemed to be creeping towards the house. It was coming down the fencing at the side. The fire brigade got here just in time to start damping it down.

“The car and shed has been destroyed, as well as the children’s Wendy house and bikes.

“I can’t believe how much it took hold. We are just gutted.”

His wife added: “When the fire brigade started to damp it down, the smoke engulfed the whole street.

“There’s no damage to the house – but we are just glad no one was hurt.”

Andrew Blower, watch manager at South Shields fire station, said: “We had initially been called to reports of a shed on fire.

“But when we arrived there were people in the street, and it turned out to be three vehicles affected. There were also sheds on fire.

“The fire investigation team will be out today to determine the cause of the fire.”

A police spokesman said: “Officers attended the scene along with the fire service, where two garages and a shed were found to be on fire.

“Investigations are currently under way.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Twitter: @shieldsgazlisa

NEIGHBOURS today told of their shock at waking to find a huge fire yards from their homes.

One resident, who didn’t want to be named, whose home backs onto the affected properties in Sunderland Road, Harton, said: “I heard a big bang.

“It was really loud.

“I went and got my daughter and when I looked out the window I saw the flames. It was unbelievable.

“I had no idea what was going on. it seemed to be getting closer and closer to the property.”

The mum, who lives in St Mary’s Avenue opposite the blaze scene, called the fire brigade.

She added: “The smoke was coming into the flat through a vent. The fire was huge.

“You just couldn’t see a thing for all the smoke.

“You could see the pieces of ash coming over the housing.”

A resident living in nearby Fairview Avenue was woken by his son, who lives in St Mary’s Avenue, at about 1.30am.

He told the Gazette how when he looked out of the window, he could see the billowing smoke from several streets away.

“My son rang me at about 1.30am to tell me about the fire. He asked me if I could hear the explosions.

“When I looked out the window of my home I could see the smoke billowing above the houses.

“It looked horrendous.”

]]> 1.4269722 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/boy_14_charged_after_food_stolen_from_asda_van_1_4269651

A TEENAGER has been charged with stealing from a supermarket delivery van in South Tyneside.

The 14-year-old, from Hebburn, will appear at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court charged with theft after food was stolen from an Asda van in Cloverhill, Jarrow.

It is thought the boy sneaked into the open van while it was delivering groceries to a house in the street on Sunday.

He has also been charged with assault by British Transport Police (BTP) after an incident at Fellgate Metro station on Saturday, December 24, 2011.

He will appear before the youth court next Wednesday.

A MAN accused of selling on £4,000 worth of stolen jewellery is to have his case heard at crown court.

Dean Kelly, of Hatfield Avenue, Hebburn, is said to have known the goods were stolen before he travelled to Middlesbrough to pawn them.

He denied a charge of handling stolen goods at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court in December and asked to be tried at Newcastle Crown Court.

He will appear there on March 23.

Kelly was granted unconditional bail until then.

]]> 1.4269646 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:34 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/horse_is_mane_attraction_at_birthday_party_1_4269645

SPARKLE the horse was certainly the mane attraction at his 30th birthday party.

The Palomino Welsh cob marked his milestone – equivalent to 85 human years – at West Fellgate Farm on Saturday.

Jan Collins, who has owned Sparkle for the past six years, invited fellow riders to take part in fancy dress and pony competitions to raise cash for equestrian charities The Horses Trust and Redwings.

The event, which saw the horse treated to a slice of carrot cake, was also to celebrate his good health after a difficult year.

Health worker Mrs Collins, 45, from East Boldon, said: “Sparkle has reached 30 against all odds, and everyone who knows him wanted to mark the occasion. So we decided to celebrate his birthday while also raising money for horse charities.

“Everyone had a wonderful time and we raised £120 for charity. And although cake was for the humans, Sparkle enjoyed a little bit too.”

Sparkle, who is kept at the farm off Newcastle Road, next to Hebburn, was born in the south and spent most of his life competing.

Over the years, he has won many dressage, showjumping, cross-country and veteran competitions.

But at the start of last year he injured a tendon, which would normally need surgery but wasn’t possible because of a heart condition and the risk of infection.

Instead, Sparkle was ordered to rest. He had another setback when blood tests from an eye injury revealed Cushing’s Disease – a condition that affects the pituitary gland near the base of the brain, which make healing difficult.

But after more rest and recuperation, Sparkle was able to return to the grazing fields about two weeks ago and can now take short rides out once again.

Mrs Collins added: “Sparkle is a real fighter and keeps bouncing back. Due to his age, I think ‘well this is it this time’, but he always surprises me.”

Mrs Collins would like to thank Geoff Alderslade, owner of West Fellgate Farm, for hosting the party.

Plus Ride and Style in Cleadon, Kim Dodds and Yeb de Jong for their donation of raffle prizes.

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVez

A DARTS marathon hit the bullseye by raising £800 for a South Tyneside hospice.

The charity event, held at Shields Snooker Centre in Chichester Road, South Shields, on January 2, was organised to raise money for St Clare’s.

The 12-hour darts marathon to help bridge the cash gap was organised by members of the centre’s darts team in support of the Gazette’s c/o St Clare’s campaign.

Member Jim Taroni, 68, of Bamburgh Grove, South Shields, said: “Everybody was over the moon with how much we managed to raise. There was quite a few people came along, and we had a really good day.

“Everyone enjoyed it, and we’re really pleased that the money is going to St Clare’s because they do a brilliant job.

“People are already asking when we’re doing another marathon, and we’re thinking about doing it again next year.”

Snooker centre manager, John Maughan, said he was delighted by the kindness of his club members.

He said: “Even in tough times, people will still put their hands in their pockets for a good cause. It’s amazing.

“Everyone is thrilled with how much has been raised.”

St Clare’s fundraising manager Marie Watson said: “This was a great effort by everyone involved, and is a brilliant amount of money.

“It will be a huge help to the hospice, and in reaching our £50,000 fundraising target.

“This is a brilliant example of how people can do something to help the hospice.”

WHY YOU SHOULD CARE FOR ST CLARE’S

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/campaigns/our_turn_to_show_we_care_for_st_clare_s_1_3940336|Our turn to show we care for St Clare’s|Our turn to show we care for St Clare’s}

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/campaigns/how_you_can_help_st_clare_s_hospice_1_3940420|How you can help St Clare’s Hospice|How you can help St Clare’s Hospice}

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/campaigns/it_s_all_about_giving_people_dignity_1_3940408|’It’s all about giving people dignity’|’It’s all about giving people dignity’}

{http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/campaigns/family_s_appeal_as_face_of_our_campaign_dies_1_4059328|Family’s appeal as face of our campaign dies|Family’s appeal as face of our campaign dies}

]]> 1.4268157 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/tv_smashed_after_drunken_row_with_girlfriend_1_4269627

A MAN who smashed his bedroom television during a drunken row with his girlfriend has been hit in the pocket.

Lee Seff flew into a rage after a night out boozing and punched the £200 plasma screen set a number of times, cracking the screen.

South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard the 37-year-old started to argue with his partner – who had also been drinking – about her going out without him.

Seff, of Rodin Avenue, South Shields, pleaded guilty to criminal damage at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court yesterday and was fined £235 and ordered to pay £85 costs.

Stan Sudworth, prosecuting, said: “His partner says there are problems with him drinking excessively.

“He came home after going out drinking with friends until 3.30am. She had been out and they argued about it.

“She went to bed, but the argument continued. He punched the television three times, smashing the screen.”

Rachel Gedney, defending, said: “It is what it is and he is very remorseful.

“When he returned home, there was an argument and during it, he punched the television.

“They live together and they have joint bank accounts so he has disadvantaged himself.

“He is thoroughly ashamed and embarrassed to be at court.”

THIEVES broke into a restaurant in South Tyneside and stole cash.

Raiders forced the back door of the Tandoori International in Ocean Road, South Shields, and stole £200 sometime between 2am and 2pm yesterday.

Meanwhile, an Alba radio cassette player was stolen from a car in Waverdale Way, South Shields.

The Citroën Saxo was broken into between 8pm on Sunday and 7am yesterday.

Any witnesses or anyone with information on the break-ins is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69194 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A LOCAL government supremo brought an upbeat message for the future of South Tyneside on his first visit to the borough.

Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the Local Government Association (LGA) and leader of the affluent Royal borough of Kensington and Chelsea in London, paid a fact-finding visit to South Shields yesterday.

He took a stroll along the coastline, met staff in the BT centre at Harton Staithes and visited the site of a new swimming pool under construction on the town’s foreshore.

Sandwiched inbetween, Sir Merrick – a passionate advocate of the arts – met council and business leaders at the Customs House theatre complex on the Mill Dam, saying he was impressed at South Tyneside Council’s ambitious regeneration projects, and drawing comparisons between our borough and the wealthy constituency he represents.

And he told our local civic figures that they weren’t alone in facing up to cuts in government funding, with South Tyneside needing to make £20m of savings in the next year.

Sir Merrick, knighted in 2010 for his services to local government, said: “We need to look at different and innovative approaches to providing public services in a difficult economic climate. Despite the challenges, I sense a positive mood.

“There is a sense of liberation that we have been freed up to work in different ways.

“There are a number of wealthy people in Kensington and Chelsea, but there are also highly deprived areas too and we are working with a 28 per cent grants reduction.

“We are working in partnership with our neighbouring authorities to provide joint services. By doing things together, we are not reducing our sovereignty in any way.

“My borough is small, just five square miles, and I know South Tyneside is not that large either but I was pleased to see the regeneration working going ahead. I saw the new leisure centre that is being built, just as there is in my own borough.

“South Tyneside is also working successfully with its neighbours in North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland to provide services and with its strategic partner BT South Tyneside. It’s facing up to the challenge of working with less money and looking at other ways of doing things while still getting the right results for its residents.”

The LGA is a voluntary organisation that is seen as the ‘voice of local government’ in England and Wales. Sir Merrick has been its chairman since 2008.

Twitter: shieldsgazpaul

SUNDERLAND football star Nicklas Bendtner was due to appear in court today to be sentenced for speeding.

Earlier this month, magistrates in Newcastle were told the Danish international striker was caught doing more than 103mph on a 70mph dual carriageway in December.

The player, on loan to Sunderland from Arsenal, was clocked in his Porsche by police on the A696 Woolsingham bypass near Newcastle Airport, near his home in Darras Hall, Ponteland, Northumberland.

Magistrates heard the case in his absence after a letter from the player’s legal representatives indicated he would plead guilty.

Sarah Robinson, prosecuting, told the court: “The defendant drove a Porsche along the Woolsington bypass at a speed exceeding 70mph.

“He was seen doing 103.6mph for a distance of 0.137 miles and was recorded by a police Vascar system. He has indicated a guilty plea.”

Bendtner was summoned to appear in person for sentence this afternoon.

]]> 1.4269581 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:41:35 +0000 http://www.jarrowandhebburngazette.com/sent_to_crown_court_for_jaw_break_robbery_1_4269504

A MAN accused of attacking and robbing someone after a night out in South Tyneside will be dealt with at crown court.

Thomas Murray is said to have repeatedly punched his 25-year-old victim in the face, breaking his jaw and nose, while demanding he hand over money.

The 21-year-old was arrested in the early hours of Saturday after police were called to help the other man, who was found bloodied in South Shields town centre.

Murray was at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court yesterday facing a charge of robbery.

The charge is so serious it can only be dealt with at Newcastle Crown Court.

Murray, of Coverdale Avenue, Washington, will appear in Newcastle on March 5.

He was denied bail and remanded in custody until then.

POLICE are today hunting the driver of a vehicle which shed part of its load, injuring two pedestrians.

At 11.18am today, police received a report from the ambulance service that a man and a woman walking over Redheugh Bridge between Newcastle and Gateshead had been hit by a filing cabinet.

It had fallen from what a witness said was a passing white flat-bed van, and they both suffered serious inquiries.

They were taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where their injuries were described as “serious but not life threatening”.

Anyone with information about the incident or who witnessed it is asked to contact Northumbria Police on the 101 non-emergency number, quoting log number 464.

FORMER Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd is facing a tricky home match over his plans to turn a historic school site into a series of luxury apartments and houses.

His company, Shepherd Offshore, plans to create 60 homes on the site of the former La Sagesse School in Jesmond, Newcastle.

But local residents are objecting to the multi-million pound project.

The Jesmond Residents’ Association has lodged a formal protest to the plan, claiming the project will spoil a conservation area and wipe out valuable open space.

The scheme would be one of the North East’s most expensive housing developments.

It involves turning the Grade II-listed Jesmond Towers building into 10 flats, rebuilding North Jesmond House to include five apartments, and building more homes on the west of the site.

In a three-page document submitted to Newcastle City Council, the association says it welcomes the site’s transformation in principle, but has 12 detailed objections, including the kind of building material proposed, the felling of trees and the planned access route to the site.

They also say the plans are “excessive” and would lead to that part of Jesmond being “over-developed”.

NIALL Quinn’s decision to leave Sunderland has shocked football fans in South Tyneside.

The former striker transformed the Black Cats’ fortunes after taking over as chairman six years ago.

Now just four months after starting a new role developing the club’s international profile last October, the Irishman has left the Stadium of Light with the team ninth in the Premier League as well as in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Sunderland fans say Quinn will always be a legend, and an online petition has already started calling for the stadium’s South Stand to be named after him.

Marc Scott, 27, from Biddick Hall, South Shields, who works for a printing company, said: “There has to be a stand named after him, or even a statue. If you look back over the past six years, he has done an incredible job.

“But he was always one of my favourite players, and he really is a legend.”

Plumber Bobby Grimes, 64, from Whitburn, said: “It’s a bit of bad news because he saved the club really. We were going nowhere six years ago, but he put everything on an even keel and the club is looking prosperous now.

“He has set us up for a great future, and leaves quite a legacy.”

Malcolm Williams, 48, a Co-op warehouse worker from South Shields, said: “In some ways it was to be expected. He had already stepped down as chairman and seemed to be on his way out. But he must feel that he’s done his job. The team has come on massively since he took over. He brought investment to the club, and we also got good managers during his time.”

Alan Mulvain, a 78-year-old retired ship carpenter, who served with the Merchant Navy, said: “Quinn has done a lot for the club. Not many people can say they have been player and chairman, and he even had a brief spell as manager.

“I think it’s a shame that he has left because things are going well at Sunderland, and I thought he would have stayed in the job even longer.”

Retired electrician Bob Waugh, 73, from South Shields, says he likes the North-East clubs to do well, but fears Quinn’s departure could have a bad effect on the team.

He said: “I think they might struggle because he has been a big influence on the whole club, and he has always been well liked by the supporters.

“But he has built the club into the strong position where it is now, and with Ellis Short in charge, and Martin O’Neill managing the team, I think they will be all right.”

Newcastle supporter Angela Russell, 31, an illustrator and freelance writer from Tyne Dock, South Shields, said Quinn is well respected throughout football.

She added: “He has done a lot for Sunderland, and him leaving might set them back. But they have always bounced back regardless of what has happened to them.”

Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe

SOUTH Shields MP David Miliband has paid tribute to Niall Quinn’s contribution at the Stadium of Light.

Mr Miliband, who is the club’s non-executive vice chairman, said: “One has to respect the class of the man.”

It was Quinn who approached Mr Miliband – an Arsenal supporter – after his Labour leadership defeat in September 2010 to join the club.

The then chairman saw former Foreign Secretary, Mr Miliband, as a key player in raising the club’s international profile.

Mr Miliband said: “I first saw Niall Quinn from the terraces at Highbury. He’s still a giant in everything he does, and has put so much into the club over the last six years.”

He added: “As he says in his moving statement announcing his departure, he was taken on trust, and the fans took him to their hearts, even when things weren’t going right.

“But with Martin O’Neill in post, there is a massive football brain guiding the club on the field. The owner has provided stability and nous in the boardroom.

“I am sure we haven’t heard the last of Niall Quinn. He’d make a formidable politician.

“The good thing is that his legacy to the club are vision and values that are true to the history of the area and the passion of the fans.

“It won’t be squandered.”

THE total has hit £30,000, and the cash is still coming in!

Gazette readers have helped reach another milestone in our c/o St Clare’s campaign to save the borough’s hospice from a cash crisis.

It was only last Thursday that a mystery £5,000 donation saw the campaign to help St Clare’s Hospice sail through the £25,000 mark.

Now, just five days later, we’ve hit another milestone thanks to the support and generosity of people in South Tyneside.

The campaign, which aims to raise £50,000 for St Clare’s, now stands at £31,623.66.

The Gazette launched the fundraising scheme in November to raise money for the hospice in Primrose Terrace, Jarrow, which provides palliative care to the people of South Tyneside with life-limiting illnesses.

It has annual running costs of £2m, of which it must raise £1.4m itself. But this year it is facing a £50,000 shortfall, and the Gazette is aiming to plug the gap.

Gazette editor, John Szymanski, said: “It’s great news that we are now well over half way towards our £50,000 target.

“I would just urge everyone to give one final push to get us as close to that target as we can over the next few weeks so that the hospice can carry on doing the brilliant job it does.”

Marie Watson, fundraising manager at St Clare’s, said: “Everyone at St Clare’s is thrilled to have reached this point in the campaign.

“This is a huge achievement and a massive help to the hospice.

“It is something that would not have been possible without the help and support of people in South Tyneside.”

She added: “We’re so grateful to everyone who has helped raise this money, and we’re positive that it will be put to good use in allowing the hospice to continue to do its work.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVicki

NEW housing schemes are to go ahead on the sites of two former council-run residential care homes in South Tyneside.

Gerald Street House in Gerald Street, South Shields, and Beech House in Beech Street, Jarrow, are to be demolished to make way for a total of 61 new properties.

South Tyneside Council’s planning committee gave both developments the green light when they met yesterday – decisions which end a long-running saga.

Both homes closed late in 2010 despite high-profile campaigns to save them.

In the end, the council decided both were surplus to requirement and too much money was required to restore them.

The applicant for both housing schemes is Sunderland-based Gleeson Developments and the homes will comprise of a mixture of two, three and four-bedroom semi-detached and detached properties.

The Beech Street scheme went ahead unopposed.

But Labour representatives for Whiteleas, Coun Ernest Gibson and Bill Brady, raised the concerns over access to the Gerald Street housing site.

Coun Gibson suggested access to the development should be from Percy Scott Street, rather than Gerald Street.

He said: “We welcome Gleeson coming to Whiteleas but residents have concerns over proposed access to the site with the entrance being very narrow and close to a sheltered accommodation.”

Despite the request, members agreed the original access location, with Coun Ahmed Khan, of the Independent Alliance, describing the housing application as a ‘useful utilisation of the site’.

Twenty-six properties are to be built in Gerald Street, with 35 in Beech Street.

Twitter: @shieldsgazpaul

THE next phase in the regeneration of Hebburn town centre is under way.

Exeter Court is the latest block to be demolished as part of South Tyneside Council’s ambitious plans to transform the area.

The cleared sites will be grassed over as the council prepares them for future housing and mixed use development.

Coun Michael Clare, the council’s lead member for regeneration, economic growth and jobs, said: “The council approved funding last year to clear all the Newtown maisonette blocks.

“This demonstrates our commitment to getting the transformation of Hebburn town centre swiftly moving forward.

“It’s the biggest scheme for Hebburn in generations and it’s going to deliver a better future for the town and its people.

“The demolition of Exeter Court will take us another step towards creating sites that are ready for development.

“A number of options for delivering new housing, retail and community facilities have been investigated.

“We hope to finalise these in the next couple of months.”

Coun Eddie McAtominey, chairman of Hebburn Town Centre Regeneration Board, said: “I’m delighted to see the demolition of Exeter Court commence and am encouraged that further demolition will take place later this year as residents move from neighbouring blocks.

“Our commitment to the wider redevelopment of the area is also demonstrated at School Street, where new, high-quality, energy-efficient housing is being delivered by a registered social landlord, Four Housing Group.

“I look forward to the highest quality development being secured in Hebburn Newtown to match the high standard being set at School Street.”

The council is implementing a programme of demolition of the maisonette blocks, with the next phase likely to be Kensington, Reyrolle and Mayfair Courts.

Coun Richard Porthouse, chairman of Hebburn community area forum, called the removal of Exeter Court “another milestone,” while forum vice-chairman Coun John McCabe congratulated residents for showing “great patience” during the complex redevelopment scheme.

The latest demolition is being carried out by contractor, Owen Pugh, and is expected to take eight weeks.

South Tyneside Council is working with the contractor to ensure noise and disturbance is kept to a minimum.

Anyone with questions about the demolition process can call the council’s housing renewal team on 424 6659.

Twitter: @shieldsgazette

A TEENAGE singer from South Tyneside is preparing to make her solo debut in a classical concert.

Sarah Ryan has been chosen to sing the Pie Jesu solo during a performance of Durufle’s Requiem, which will also feature the Durham Singers, next month.

The event, on March 24, at Brancepath Church in Durham, will be the first time the 18-year-old mezzo-soprano from Mill Lane, Hebburn, has performed as a soloist in a classical concert.

She will be accompanied by cellist Deborah Thorne and Durham Cathedral sub-organist Francesca Massey.

Sarah said: “I love singing the Pie Jesu and I’m really looking forward to performing it with the Durham Singers as part of the complete work.”

Sarah began singing at the age of four, singing pop and theatre songs, before moving into classical music after a successful audition to join the Sage Gateshead’s prestigious Young Musicians Programme, where she studies under the guidance of Miranda Wright.

Last year, she made her first appearance at two of the North East’s major music festivals – Ryton and Saltburn – winning awards in several categories, including Singer of the Year at Ryton. She has taken part in a number of charity shows and also sang at the Christmas lights switch on in South Shields.

Sarah will be joined in the Durufle Requiem by Durham University student baritone Ben Craw.

Musical Director of the Durham Singers, Julian Wright, said: “Sarah has an extraordinary natural mezzo-soprano voice. It’s radiant, powerful, and full of richness. It’s such a privilege for us to work with young voices like those of Sarah and Ben.

The Durham Singers are a chamber choir who perform music from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century.

The performance will come only days after the teenager performs at Bowes Museum.

That concert, being held on March 17, will feature songs performed by singers under the guidance of Miranda Wright.

Tickets for the performance at Brancepath Church, which starts at 7.30pm, are priced £12 (£10 for concessions) and are available from Durham Gala Theatre on 332 4041 or visiting www.galadurham.co.uk

Twitter: @ShieldsGazLisa

WE had my parents up this weekend. My parents and my sister actually.

My parents, my sister and her two sons (13 and 12) to give them all a shout out.

With them living exactly 141 miles away in sunny Rochdale, visits from my family are few and far between.

My mum brought Jacob’s birthday present with her, all wrapped and ready to open – in six weeks’ time.

I guess we won’t be seeing them again before that.

And because of the distance they all like to pile up together in one car. Share the petrol costs.

They were actually up to help out this weekend as Mary and I enjoyed a rare night away from the kiddies.

I have had a night away from the kiddies when I had to get my car done by one of my dad’s drinking buddies back in Rochdale, and Mary had to go on a hen weekend last April, but we’ve not been child-free as a couple since - well, when we were child-free.

My mum jumped at the chance of helping out. She loves spending time with her youngest grandkids and is full of sorrow that we live away.

My dad was just miffed that he had to miss his golf. It also meant forking out for three nights at the nearby Travelodge for everyone.

My sister turned 40 in December, but it’s my dad who still manages to be landed with the bill when they all come up.

I can talk. I still owe him the best part of £2,000 when he bailed me out to get a new boiler.

I genuinely keep making attempts to pay him – and then have to renege on when something else comes along to swallow that spare cash.

Last month was all about clearing Christmas debt, this month I’ve been landed with road tax and a new car battery. Next month is Jacob’s birthday.

So he was especially pleased to be driving 141 miles to babysit, while I spent his money on bed, breakfast and meal at a nice hotel in Craster.

Still, at least he could sit in my house and get use of his boiler.

They stayed Thursday to Sunday, when my dad wanted to set off early to beat the traffic.

Mary and I only stayed away Friday night, as we had a date with Fireman Sam at Whitley Bay Playhouse on Sunday.

We were going to take Benjamin, but thought he’s a touch too young, so just took Jacob and asked my folks to extend their baby-sitting stay.

My dad wasn’t too happy – and it cost him more when my nephews demanded yet another go in the arcades.

Still, at least he got some more use out of his boiler.

I MAY have to forgo my Friday night pizza treat.

While the thought of abandoning a delicious margherita or quattro stagioni pizza at the end of the working week fills me with dread, new research suggests that not eating every other day is the answer to a long life.

US scientists have conducted tests which seem to show that animals which were only fed on alternate days built up a greater resistance to disease.

Applying the same theories to human beings, boffins suggest that not eating every other day will help us lose weight, boost our brain power, help tackle diseases like Alzheimer’s and even extend our lifespan.

Restricting calorie intake also seemed to improve memory in older people.

But is all of this long life and starvation business worth giving up my mouth-watering pizza on Friday evening?

(And don’t even get me started on forsaking real ale at the weekend – that would be like entering some health promotion twilight zone.)

Frankly, starving ourselves towards a brighter future does seem rather extreme.

Bombarded on every side by a daily avalanche of health advice, it’s easy to see why some people take the opposite route towards calory-rich guilty pleasures.

The artist David Hockney, for instance, has long campaigned on behalf of smokers and against the so-called ‘nanny state.’

Hockney’s all for allowing adults to smoke themselves to oblivion, because it’s their free choice.

This liberal stance is all well and good, as long as someone else’s nicotine habit doesn’t intrude on the health of non-smokers.

But I’m sure there’s something in the latest research about eating less.

I’m not a vegetarian, and am unlikely to be, but I know from experience that digesting the meat of some dead animal slows my body down.

Going for a run the day after a Sunday roast often feels twice as difficult.

A balanced diet and less food would probably help most of us extend our time on earth.

But maybe I’ll give up my Friday night pizza next week ...

LET’S face it, everyone (and that includes me) wants a quick way to lose weight and tone up without the need for exercise.

Life sometimes doesn’t leave you with much time for the gym or to take part in boot camp sessions.

So after hearing about a new revolutionary device aimed at helping people lose weight and tone up, curiosity got the better of me.

The Aesthetics Expert, in Fowler Street, South Shields, is owned by Jill Butler and is the only place in the North East to try the FAR-Infrared Slimming Capsule.

The machine, aka the Space Tunnel, uses infrared heat which, according to a journal of the Medical Association report, can burn off up to 600 calories in a 30-minute session.

It also allows the user to listen to CDs as they lie back and let the machine work out for them.

Beauty therapist Diane Fielding said: “There has already been a number of people who have been in and used the machine and they have given us some really good feedback. We recommend a course of 10 sessions but we have had people say they can feel a difference after just one go.”

As well as helping people to lose weight and tone up, the infrared therapy is also said to help in the treatment and pain relief for sprains, neuralgia, muscle spasm and arthritis.

The machine works as a heated infrared canopy moves up and down the body.

The heat forces the body to increase sweat production to cool itself and makes the heart work harder to boost circulation.

It is said to create the same effect as a 3km run.

The treatment also helps release built up toxins and waste from the body.

FAR-Infrared is light which is naturally produced by the sun and, unlike ultraviolet light, does not cause sunburn and damage to the skin.

The temperature of the machine can be changed to suit the individual but the average temperature used is 45 degrees.

Miss Fielding said: “The space tunnels are all over Miami and other places in the United States which is where Jill got the idea from. Practically every beauty place she went into had them and after seeing the benefits, she ordered one for the clinic.

“We’ve had the machine for about two months now and it is quite popular.”

Aesthetics Beauty was opened in November by Ms Butler, a registered and medically qualified practitioner.

The clinic offers a range of treatments including radio-frequency fat removal, dermal fillers, slimming body wraps, microdermabrasion and teeth-whitening clinics.

But it’s the slimming capsule that is beginning to attract a lot of interest.

Miss Fielding, who also owns Studio Nailz and beauty, said: “The machine is brilliant for those who are looking to lose weight as it can help complement their diet.”

Each 30-minute session costs £10.

For more information on the FAR-Infrared Slimming capsule visit www.aestheticexpert.co.uk or call 454 0830 to book a session.

Twitter: @shieldsgazlisa

A SUPPORT group set up by a South Tyneside man to help families devastated by murder and manslaughter is holding its annual memorial service this week.

The ninth National Victims Association memorial service will allow loved ones to light a candle in memory of a crime victim at St Mary’s RC Cathedral in Newcastle on Saturday.

The National Victims Association (NVA) was founded in 1992 by Jarrow man David Hines after the death of his daughter, Marie, who was killed by her former partner.

The gathering aims to bring families that have lost a loved one, through a violent crime, together.

Ahead of the service, led by Monsignor Ged Lavender, families will be able to place a photograph of their loved one on the altar and light a candle in their memory.

Mr Hines, NVA chairman, said: “The service is about celebrating the lives of those who are no longer with us.

“Our last service was very well attended, and we would like to see the cathedral full to the rafters again.”

The service, which is open to the public if they wish to express their condolences, will be attended by the Duchess of Northumberland and civic representatives from across the North East, including the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside, Coun Jim Sewell and his wife, Rosemary.

Coun Sewell said: “The memorial service will be a poignant and emotional occasion, but will be an opportunity for families, who are suffering as a result of serious crimes, to come together in the knowledge that they are not alone in their grieving.”

The service will also be attended for the second time by Oliver Ferez, who travels from France to pay tribute to his son, Gabriel, who was stabbed to death in London in 2008.

Mr Hines said: “This is the second time Oliver will be travelling from France to be part of the service.

“This year he will be bringing his 14-year-old son.

“His presence at the service shows just how far the charity is reaching out to those who have suffered the death of a loved one through murder and manslaughter.”

The multi-denominational service is for people of any faith or no faith at all.

The service, starting at 11.30am, will be followed by a balloon release ceremony in the cathedral’s garden of remembrance.

For more information, call Mr Hines on 423 2210

Twitter: @shieldsgazlisa

APPRENTICES are helping to spark interest in a construction career among pupils.

South Tyneside Homes (STH) apprentice electrician Drew Adamson, 20, and 17-year-old apprentice plumber Joe Hockings spent time with Year nine students at Hebburn Comprehensive School.

They offered help and advice on applying for apprenticeships with the property services team.

The in-house team is responsible for maintaining and improving more than 18,000 council homes in South Tyneside, including delivering parts of the Decent Homes Programme.

During the school workshops, the apprentices and other representatives from STH spoke to the group about the qualifications they would need to apply for an apprenticeship and the different career paths available.

The students also tried their hand at working on an electrical socket and some pipework.

South Tyneside Homes is one of the UK’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and offer apprenticeships in five main trade areas – plastering, plumbing and gas fitting, joinery, painting and electrical.

Apprentices attend college on a day or block release to work towards an NVQ Level 3 in their trade. They also work alongside experienced members of the team to learn skills on the job.

Mark Whittle, director of investment at South Tyneside Homes, said: “We are extremely proud of our award-winning apprenticeship programme and over the past six years we have trained 80 young people in the different trade areas.

“We are committed to trying to recruit our future apprentices from within South Tyneside, and the event at Hebburn Comprehensive School gave us the opportunity to promote the fantastic career prospects and training we can offer to the workforce of tomorrow.”

Annette Spark, careers education co-ordinator at Hebburn Comprehensive School, said: “We always try to make sure pupils gain the required knowledge that will allow them to choose their correct careers pathway. This workshop has allowed them to work closely with local businesses to help motivate them with their decision.”

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVez

SCOOCH star David Ducasse is launching a third Slimming World group in South Tyneside.

The 35-year-old, from South Shields, became a group leader for the weight-loss club after it helped him get in shape.

He relaunched a Monday night group at the Marsden Inn in Redwell Lane, which became so popular that he had to open an extra session and now he’s set to begin running a third, at Ocean Road Community Centre, South Shields, on Saturday mornings.

He said: “I joined Slimming World last June after a costume fitting for panto showed I’d put weight on without actually realising how my eating habits were getting out of control.

“Everything felt that little bit too tight, but it was the wake-up call I needed.

“I didn’t think I had huge amounts of weight to lose, but I did know I had to take action. It was a case of recognising where this was going.”

David has lost 1st 8lb by following Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, which encourages members to satisfy their appetite with foods that are filling, nutritious and naturally low in calories.

David added: “The eating plan was nothing like I expected. I thought losing weight would mean not eating very much, or cutting out my favourite foods, but that was not the case.”

In six weeks, David’s Marsden Inn members have lost 29.5st and last week launched a national campaign called Let’s Beat Obesity in the Community.

The Ocean Road Community Centre group launched at 9.30am on Saturday, where David hopes to encourage and support others on their own weight loss journey.

He said: “I am really excited, especially as this is the first Saturday morning group to be launched in South Shields. My current members have had amazing results and I would love to be able to help others achieve their own goals.”

Anyone who would like to join the group should turn up at the class or contact David on 07949 196324, go to www.facebook.com/DavidSlimmingWorld or e-mail davidslimworld@aol.com.

Twitter: @ShieldsGazVicki