Dear Consett Readers
Welcome to the October issue of Consett Magazine! We’re excited to bring you another edition filled with positive local news, heartwarming stories, and features that celebrate the very best of Consett. This issue’s cover showcases a wonderful photograph sent in by Stephen Finch of Shotley Bridge Cricket Club, beautifully capturing the motion of the sport and the intensity of the players.
On page 4, the Consett Lions Club updates us on their inspiring community projects, from a first-aid event to generous food donations. Their dedication to making a difference shines through. Also on page 4, we celebrate the incredible efforts of the Consett & District Sunderland Supporters’ Association, who have raised over £50,000 for Willow Burn Hospice—a true testament to the
power of local support.
Page 5 brings you Joyce Shaw’s delightful tale about the North East staple, pease pudding, along with the mouth-watering story of Belfry Chocolates, a local chocolatier blending Brazilian and British flavours. On page 7, we celebrate the Rotary Bursary that’s helping local students with their education, and the skilled sheep shearers of Muggleswick, who keep an ancient tradition alive.
We’re thrilled to announce the reopening of the Empire Theatre on page 9, following essential repairs, ensuring this iconic venue continues to entertain for years to come. Pages 10 and 11 highlight exciting opportunities for local businesses through the Durham Business Growth Programme, offering grants to help businesses thrive.
On page 12, you’ll enjoy Lorraine Weightman’s humorous short story, and on pages 13 and 14, we preview a fantastic comic art exhibition by local artists Phil Bartle and John Bagnall. We also shine a spotlight on Relmans, Consett’s trusted greengrocer for 27 years, and explore the cutting-edge achievements of CAV Systems, a global leader in aviation technology based right here in Consett.
Finally, we highlight the expertise of The Frame House, a local business crafting beautiful frames for over 30 years, and hear from Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen as she seeks community input to shape the future of policing in County Durham and Darlington.
At Consett Magazine, we’re proud to provide free, positive local news that brings the community together every month. A huge thank you to our advertisers, contributors, Marco Elsy, Barry Kirkham, and the entire Consett Magazine team for making this issue possible.
We hope you enjoy reading!
