Dear Consett Readers,
As festive lights brighten our streets and the year draws to a close, our Christmas in Consett December 2025 issue brings you stories that reflect the true heart of our community—connection, care, and kindness.
This month, we begin by celebrating the incredible people who bring joy and unity to Consett. We catch up with the dedicated team behind Leadgate WMC FC, a football club rooted in friendship and local pride. There’s also the heartwarming story of Stephen Stonehouse—known to many as Santa Ste—who marks ten years of festive fundraising and cheer. And for a moment of winter reflection, Lorraine Weightman delves into the tale of the Sitting Stones of Conside and their magical link to the solstice.
The season also brings out the best in our local care and education settings. Shotley Bridge Nursery School shares how they embrace a gentle, mindful approach to Christmas—prioritising calm, shared experiences for children rather than elaborate performances. Over in Leadgate, Grizedale Residential Home looks back on over three decades of care rooted in community. Meanwhile, Nice Bites Café at the Salvation Army continues to serve up affordable, warming lunches every Tuesday, supporting locals one meal at a time.
In our business pages, we meet David Clark in this month’s “People Behind the Pour”, as he brings his hospitality expertise to a new chapter at Lanchester Wines. Greencroft Dog Day Care is also celebrating five successful years—and has now expanded its offering with Mutts Menu, providing raw food and natural treats for local pups.
Consett’s food scene remains vibrant. A huge congratulations to Chef Parvin Kumar, who has earned the Good Food Award Gold Seal for the third year in a row at Soami’s Trio. His latest project, Bao Asia, is set to open on Newmarket Street in the new year—one to watch!
We’re also incredibly grateful for the people who help bring these stories to life. The Consett in Focus team continue to capture our town beautifully through their lens, with photographs that reflect its character and warmth. And behind the scenes, Dean and Liam work tirelessly connecting with local people and businesses—helping them tell their stories and bring great offers to the community.
Finally, we turn to an important message from the Police and Crime Commissioner, highlighting the need for Fairer Funding for English Police Forces to ensure communities like ours get the protection and visibility we deserve.
With January just around the corner, it’s the ideal time to plan your new year advertising. To reach thousands of engaged local readers, call us on 01207 438292 and book your space today.
And as always, if you know someone with a story worth sharing, we’d love to hear from you.
Warm wishes and Merry Christmas,
Barry Kirkham
On behalf of Firefly, Consett Magazine, and all our brilliant contributors
