Heaton Stannington hit first-division Wallington with a five-goal blast in the final 15 minutes to lift the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup last night.

A Sam Walton penalty had put the underdogs ahead and although Jonathon Wright levelled things up before the break, Jordan Nellis struck to give the Greens hopes of pulling off a surprise.

But the Premier Division leader’s quality told in the end as Wright added a second from the penalty spot and Lee Johnson (2), Gary Dixon and Anthony Johnson all netted late on to take the silverware.

In the Premier Division the previous night, Amble United’s title hopes were dealt another blow after Blyth Town won 4-2 at Shankhouse.

United are now in third, three poins behind Blyth and six points behind leaders Heaton Stannington, both of whom have games in hand.

Fourth-placed Carlisle did lose on Wednesday night, going down 2-0 at home to Harraby United.

In Division Two, Alnwick Town Reserves also lost at home, 4-0 to Blyth Isabella.

RESULTS

Wednesday, April 24

Premier Division

Carlisle City 0 Harraby Utd 2

Gateshead Rutherford 2 Walker Central 3

Shankhouse 2 Blyth Town 4

Stocksfield 3 Whitley Bay A 1

Division One

Bedlington Terriers Reserves 1 Northbank Carlisle 2

Cramlington Town 0 Cullercoats 3

Forest Hall 2 Newcastle Chemfica (Independent) 2

Gateshead Redheugh 1957 3 Ponteland United 2

Hexham 1 Red House Farm 2

Morpeth Town A 3 Willington Quay Saints 2

Newcastle University 2 Heddon 1

Division Two

Alnwick Town Reserves 0 Blyth Isabella 4

Grainger Park B C A Birtley St Josephs A Match abandoned due to serious injury

Seaton Burn 2 Wideopen & District 1

Swalwell 1 North Shields Athletic 4

Wallsend Boys Club 2 High Howdon S C 3

MORPETH RFC U14s saved the best until last, thumping local rivals Alnwick 55-5 in a season-crowning performance to win the Northumberland RFU County Plate final at Gosforth RFC.

Alnwick were never in the match which their opponents dominated from start to finish, playing with panache, skill, commitment and passion as they ran in nine tries to one in blustery conditions on the artificial pitch at Druid Park.

Prop Nathan Howey powered over within the first five minutes and further tries from pacy winger Liam Shipperlee, second row Sam Fieldsen, number eight Grahame Milne, Joe Turnbull and flanker Lewis Nicholson saw Morpeth out of sight by half-time.

Scores from outside centre George Devereux-Tinley, Will Allen and inside centre Ewan Kirk with the try of the match put the icing on the cake and all Alnwick could manage was a late consolation try.

Fly half Sam Eyres, who was outstanding throughout, kicked over five well-taken conversions.

Ulgham I (136 all out) v Bomarsund I (139-4) Northumberland Cricket League, Division One

ULGHAM started off their season with a home defeat.

After being put into bat, they got off to a poor start when openers Colin Tait and Alan Hynd were dismissed after scoring just one run each.

Wahab Barakat and Roy Haygarth (17) got the innings going, but when he looked set to reach his half-century, Barakat was caught on 39.

Adam Tait (14) and Chris Herne (10) were the only other men who made it into double figures as the hosts were all out for just 136.

Bomarsund started well in reply, particularly their captain Haig, however, Ulgham pegged them back a little when David Moore bowled Thornton for 12 and David Charlton had Whiteman stumped by Hynd for 17.

Charlton then trapped Dixon LBW, but the visitors did not panic and Concannon made a useful knock of 20.

He was caught by Barakat off the bowling of Chris Cowe.

Haig reached his half-century and he finished on 54 not out as Bomarsund won by six wickets.

Ponteland I (166 all out) v Burnopfield I (167-9) Northumberland & Tyneside Senior League, Division A1

PONTELAND were extremely close to recording a victory in their first appearance in the top division since 2006.

Matthew Hynd, Nick Brown, Rory Marr, Paul Elliott, John Callaghan and Liam Cosgrove were all making their debuts.

After making a solid start, the home side were 47-4. Nick Brown and Jonny Appleby dug in and put on a 50 stand before Brown (37) was bowled by Burnopfield’s pro Hafeez.

Appleby was unlucky to be dismissed by an outstanding catch then positive batting by Elliott, who scored 38, helped Pont to a more respectable 166 all out.

It looked like the visitors would win easily, but first Elliott, then Tom Seymour, took two quick wickets to give the hosts some hope.

Opening bowler Mark Turnbull returned to the attack and was inspired, taking five wickets and giving away few runs to leave Burnopfield on 166 for nine.

But the number 11 survived and they managed to get the run they needed to win by one wicket.

THOUSANDS of dedicated runners descended on the nation’s capital on Sunday to take part in the annual London Marathon, this year once again sponsored by Virgin, writes George Patterson.

Among them were several athletes from Morpeth Harriers.

First home from the club was London-based Andrew Lawrence, who unfortunately on this occasion was not wearing the usual colours donned by his first claim club.

Mainly because of local support and pressure, he chose to wear the colours of his second claim club Highgate Harriers.

Nevertheless, we record that he finished 354th overall, and as 249th male, in a time of 2hrs46m04s.

Second Morpeth Harriers finisher was Neil Gunstone, who clocked 3hrs00m52s, to come home 1,399th overall and as 1,343rd male finisher.

Next home was Mike Winter, who clocked 3hrs01m49s for 1,487th place overall as 1,422nd male.

Fourth home from the club was Matthew Forster, who finished in 1,657th place overall, and was 1,578th male in 3hr04m03s.

Three Morpeth Harriers women were also among the finishers.

Charlotte Wilson was first of these, finishing 2,177th overall, and was 141st woman, in a finishing time of 3hr09m49s.

Second woman home from the club was Lorna MacDonald, who clocked 3hr22m10s, and 3,550th overall, and was 372nd woman.

At the time of going to press, Morpeth Harriers’ only other known finisher Kate Chapman.

She finished 4,021st overall and was 463rd woman finisher in 3hr25m58s.

TWO Morpeth Harriers were called up to represent the North East in the London Marathon, British Athletics Mini Marathon Regional Challenge.

In the U13 Boys’ event, where the North East finished as fifth team, Kieran Hedley was fourth counter in 35th place overall.

Alison Brown was fifth counter for the North East U17 Women’s squad, who finished as ninth team. She finished in 64th place overall.

FOUR young athletes from Morpeth Harriers, certainly made enthusiastic starts to their track season, at the Anne Marie Readshaw Memorial Open Meeting, held at Shildon Stadium, Co Durham, on Sunday, April 14.

A very welcome early-season victory came the way of Jacob Hopkins in the U15 Boys’ 800m, where he clocked a new personal best of 2m16.9s.

It will be a particular boost to Hopkins, coming off the back of what he would very readily describe as a disappointing cross-country campaign.

The Benet Biscop, Bedlington, pupil suffered from various problems mainly associated with his growth, however, with Sunday’s performance, he clearly showed that he has a dearth of fitness that will see him successfully through his second year term in his particular age group and this was the start he had always wished for, along with his club and team-mates.

One team-mate, who also benefited from a good performance on Sunday, was Kieran Hedley, who by comparison to Hopkins had a more successful cross-country season.

Hedley ran well to finish third behind Hopkins and that by degree is excellent, as he is in the first year of the U15 age group. His finishing time of 2m21.6s was a new personal best.

Also performing well was Hedley’s younger sister Rhiannon, who is one of the youngest in the U11 Girls’ age group, and her performance to finish third in the 600m in 2m12.5s speaks volumes towards a successful future in the sport.

Finally, Elliot Kelly can feel well pleased with his second in the U17 Men’s 3000m in 10m02.0s, finishing behind Birtley’s Tom Goulding.

THIRTY members of Morpeth Harriers gathered at the Joiners Arms, Morpeth, on the evening of Sunday, April 14, to celebrate athletic achievements by their colleagues, at the 2012 Veterans Grand Prix Presentation, sponsored by Phil Walker Financial Planner of St James’s Place Wealth Management.

As host, Walker thanked all of those present for their attendance and hoped that all would enjoy their evening.

He introduced himself as the event sponsor and outlined some of the work that his company carried out and the charities that they additionally supported. He said that proceeds from the prize raffle to be held that evening would be supporting some of those charities chosen by the St James’s Foundation, including underprivileged, and unwell children.

Phil went on to say that the new Grand Prix format appeared to be working well, and was pleased to add that 20 people had competed in six of the qualifying events and that 25 Veterans had actually entered the event overall.

Later, he paid tribute to the valued help and contribution that he had received from John Butters in keeping the Grand Prix tables updated, with his immense computer skills, and Pam Woodcock for her sponsors knowledge as his predecessor to the event.

The following received awards for their achievements in the 2012 Morpeth Harriers Veterans Grand Prix:

League One: Winner: Paul Waterston, Runner-up: Chris Waugh.

League Two: Winner: Mick Thomsen, Runner-up: Bob Sewell.

League Three: Winner: Fergus Bates, Runner-up: Jim Alder.

League Four: Winner: Scott Wilkes, Runner-up: Peter Maylia.

Overall champions 2012: Male: Paul Waterston. Female: Pam Woodcock.

At the close of proceedings, Bob Sewell proposed a vote of thanks to Phil Walker for his generosity as sponsor and for providing an enjoyable year of events and for the enjoyable evening.

Phil Walker has indicated that he will continue to sponsor the Morpeth Harriers Veterans Grand Prix during the forthcoming year.

Thanks also go to the management of the Joiners Arms, Morpeth, for the provision of their back room and for the buffet that was enjoyed by all.

MATTHEW Nicholson of Morpeth Harriers can count himself very unlucky in coming up against an athlete of the calibre of Ethiopian Tadele Geremew, now running for Elswick Harriers, in Sunday’s Wallsend Harriers Terry O’Gara Memorial 5k Road Race.

For Nicholson had established a very healthy lead up until the halfway point and only lost out to Geremew in the later stages.

Geremew won with 21 seconds to spare over Nicholson, as the Morpeth man powered home relentlessly in 15m21s.

Only Sale Harrier Nick Samuels, husband of newly-signed Wallsend Harrier Sonia, who won the Women’s race in a new course record time, could get anywhere near Nicholson and Geremew and finished third in 15m32s.

Another prominent Morpeth Harriers performer was Thomas Straughan, who finished 12th in 16m20s.

Billy Gilroy showed he is getting back to excellent form and was second Over 50 Veteran, when he finished 19th in 16m45s.

One place behind Gilroy was Fergus Bates, who clocked 16m48s, and was third Over 40 Veteran Man.

U20 athlete Sam Hancox continued his run of superb form by placing 22nd in 17m07s.

Other Morpeth performers were Mike Hegarty (33rd) 17m38s, Chris Waugh (39th) (fourth O/50) 18m00s, Rob Hancox (53rd) (eighth O/45) 18m39s, Nick Armstrong (11th O/45) 20m21s, Pauline Brennan) (129th) (21s Lady) (second O/40 Lady) 21m36s, Archie Jenkins (130th) (third O/60) 21m40s, and Shuna Rank (135th) (25th lady) (fifth /35 Lady) 22m15s.

FOR the second month in a row, the Benfield Motor Group Morpeth Harriers Athlete of the Month award has gone to one of their very much younger up and coming stars.

For March 2013, the judges have selected U13 Girl Lizzie Rank, who produced an excellent run to be one of the fastest performers at the fifth and penultimate Start Fitness North Eastern Harrier League at Alnwick and also finished an excellent second in her age group event at the cold and windy Elswick Road Races, held at Newburn Business Park on Good Friday.

Lizzie is pictured receiving her performance certificate from Morpeth Harriers Club chairman David Swinburne, at their clubhouse on Mitford Road on Monday, April 15.

She now joins a list of previous winners for selection for a possible more lucrative award when the Benfield Motor Group Morpeth Harriers Athlete of the Year 2012-13 is decided in July.

Washington 1 Morpeth Town 3 Ebac Northern League Division Two

MORPETH completed a hat-trick of victories on Monday night to move into the promotion places.

The visitors were quickly into their stride and on 15 minutes, Dines drove a shot towards goal from distance. The ball was deflected into the path of McAlpine, who took a touch and lifted it into the roof of the net.

Just before half time, the Highway Men moved into a dominant position with two goals in a minute. First, Chilton charged down a kick from the home keeper and forced the ball home.

From the kick off, Town regained possession and a long through-ball from Dines found Mullen in space and he lobbed the keeper to make it 3-0.

With a strong wind at their backs, Washington exerted some pressure in the second half and with 15 minutes remaining Patterson pulled one back with a 35-yard pile driver, but it was too little too late.

On Saturday, Morpeth and Tow Law both played their part in an entertaining game. The winning goal for the Highway Men came late in the second half.

Substitute Andrews stretched the Tow Law defence with his pace and his throughball found McAlpine on the edge of the penalty area. His deft slide rule pass was converted by Chilton.

Although Anderson and Fry were then denied by the frame of the goal, the defence stayed strong to keep what could turn out to be a vital clean sheet.

Town greatly boosted their goal difference last Wednesday with a 5-1 victory away to Esh Winning. Their goalscorers were Chilton, Fry, Anderson, Dunn and Benjamin.

With Jarrow Roofing dropping points at Alnwick Town on Monday, the Highway Men are now in the final promotion place in the table (third) with only three games remaining.

The visitors to Craik Park on Saturday are Northallerton Town, who are also still in contention for promotion. Kick-off is 3pm.

Morpeth Sporting Club will again be the guests of Morpeth Town on Saturday and Techflow Qatar will again be sponsoring the half time penalty shoot-out competition.

Ponteland MS U11s 4 Tweedmouth MS U11s 1 County Cup Final

AN Under 11s boys football team is on the verge of a unique hat-trick of victories.

The side from Ponteland Community Middle School won the Laidler County Cup, beating Tweedmouth 4-1 at Whytrig Middle School, despite conceding an early goal.

The game was played in very windy conditions. The Ponteland defence had their work cut out against the gusts, but in a rare first half attack, centre back Will Brown equalised.

In the second half, they had the wind at their backs and dominated the game. Will Scott made it 2-1 with a good turn and finish.

Aaron Wallace scored the third and Brown got his second and Ponteland’s fourth. Captain Oliver Robson collected the trophy and celebrated with his team-mates and parents, who had all turned out to support the team.

Coach Stephen Salter said: “This is the third time that the school has won the U11 Laidler County Cup in the past five years – having not won it at all in the previous 33 years.”

The boys have already clinched the league title, having won all of their games. This meant they qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, where they played Richard Coates Middle School.

Ponteland Middle School had a comfortable 7-0 win and will face Chantry Middle in the final next month.

A REQUEST for a new pedestrian crossing in a Pegswood street has not been successful.

The county council was asked by Pegswood Parish Council whether it would consider putting in such a facility on Morpeth Avenue following a letter from a resident living in the area.

But one of its officers told the parish authority that it will not be carrying out a detailed study of the street because the request would be very unlikely to meet the funding criteria.

The project would have cost a total of approximately £45,000.

HIGH-SPEED broadband will be rolled out to almost every home and business in Northumberland in an £18.9million deal.

Northumberland County Council and BT will provide the link to 95 per cent of properties in the area.

A massive 660km of fibre will be laid — seven times the length of the A1 in Northumberland.

The first premises should be connected in January and once the project is complete 91 per cent of properties will have access to broadband speeds of up to 80Mbps, a further four per cent could see improvements to 25Mbps and at least 2Mbps should be available to all.

Currently, the county’s average downstream speed is 8.3Mbps, while almost 16 per cent of premises receive less than 2Mbps. Individual line speeds will still depend on network infrastructure and individual providers.

The iNorthumberland programme, managed by Arch, has been funded with £7million from the council, a further £7million from its share of the Government’s BDUK scheme, BT is contributing £2.9million and £2million will be provided by the European Regional Development Fund.

Council Deputy Chief Executive Kate Roe said: “This is an important step in the campaign to bring faster broadband speeds to every home, business and school in Northumberland. Working with BT we will be announcing the installation schedule in the coming months and communities across the county can look forward to improved access to online services and better connectivity for businesses from 2014 onwards.”

The initiative has been welcomed by the North East Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, visit www.inorthumber land.org.uk

A WAR of words has broken out over pothole repairs in Northumberland.

The county’s Conservative group has pledged £30million in road investment as the main priority in its election manifesto, saying not enough has been done to keep routes in order.

But now Northumberland County Council’s ruling Liberal Democrats have hit back after it was revealed the authority has carried out more pothole repairs than the 11 other councils in the North East and Cumbria combined.

Of 54,000 potholes filled in the region last year, around 34,000 were in Northumberland.

The Liberal Democrats said another £6million will be invested in road improvements in their latest budget.

Council Leader Jeff Reid said: “This is just further evidence that the Conservatives are talking rubbish on our roads.

“We are committed to investing in our roads. We are going to fill even more potholes this year with our state-of-the-art machine, we are going to build a new £25million bypass at Morpeth, we are fixing the landslips at Rothbury and Stocksfield, and of course we will continue to fight hard for the A1 to be fully dualled.”

But Conservative Group Leader Peter Jackson said the number of potholes having to be filled only shows the extent of the problem.

He said: “Northumberland Conservatives have consistently being saying that there needs to be a fundamental change in the way that we look after our roads. Planned, permanent repairs will not only give us better roads, but actually make economic sense. We all know that the current sticking plaster approach of the short-term pothole patching is not working.”

Heavy metal — it’s not to everyone’s taste. At Robson and Prescott we have had evidence that, even if you do find it appealing, it can be decidedly dangerous for you.

I’m not referring to Iron Maiden, Metallica or AC/DC, but rather lead, zinc and iron. Heavy-metal poisoning can present a real risk to livestock and pets.

All farm vets of a certain generation would recognise the symptoms of the blind and colicking bullock as lead poisoning and question the farmer as to where they disposed of tractor batteries, or if the cattle might have access to gates covered with lead-based paints.

More recently, it has been patients of the feathered variety that have presented with symptoms.

First was a harris hawk called Boomer. He was bright and alert, but with an inability to stand on apparently paralysed legs. A clinical workup confirmed lead poisoning and suspicion of the source lay with the feeding of rabbit, which had been shot with lead pellets.

Next, was a very poorly scarlet macaw named Trevor (confusing for a girl).

Trevor had stopped talking and eating, was incredibly weak and was producing luminous green faeces. A tentative diagnosis of heavy-metal poisoning was made and later supported by blood tests indicating grossly elevated blood levels of zinc.

The source was more difficult to establish, but suspicion fell on the galvanised zipper of the owner’s old work coat with which Trevor appeared fixated.

The most unusual case was a depressed toucan, famed by the old Guinness advert. Never has an advertising campaign been less appropriate. The slogan ‘Guinness is good for you’ because it is a fabled source of iron is ironic as the toucan is prone to dropping down dead if exposed to any foodstuff containing even a trace of iron.

Thankfully, we were able to intervene before the liver poisoning became irreversible. We offered advice regarding suitable feeding.

Two swans and a heron were presented with lead poisoning by the RSPCA, each had swallowed lead weights discarded by anglers. In the case of the heron and one of the swans, the weights were visible on X-ray and were removed endoscopically. X-rays of the other swan failed to identify a source, but lead poisoning was confirmed by blood tests.

In all but one of the cases, the patient made an excellent recovery, albeit with a much stricter diet in the case of the toucan.

The heron, unfortunately, died. It had collapsed, was unresponsive and despite removal of the lead source, a drip and injections to help rid its bloodstream of toxins, it didn’t pull through. A sad but salient reminder that a taste for heavy metal is sometimes bad for your health.

Sam Prescott, Director and Senior Vet

ESSENTIAL works to decrease flood risk for more than 200 homes is being carried out in Ponteland.

Over 300 tonnes of trees, weeds, silt and earth have already been removed by the Environment Agency over the past few months.

The £29,000 project follows a survey which showed that reducing the channel roughness of the River Pont would substantially lower the chances of it bursting its banks.

The works are part of the organisation’s maintenance programme in the area, due to be completed in the next couple of weeks. They should ensure that the defences are helping to protect homes from flooding as well as they did when they were first built.

Flood Officer Simon Eadington said: “Our maintenance work is essential for keeping defences working as effectively as they were originally intended.

“The Ponteland project will play an important part in helping to reduce flood risk to hundreds of homes in the area, as well as making the riverside look more pleasant.

“Flood defences are vital for protecting homes from flooding but people at flood risk should also protect themselves by signing up to free flood warnings and making a flood plan. For more information, visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood”

These works build on a scheme in 2011 that involved increasing the height of two flood walls in the centre of Ponteland, raising the flood bank in Ponteland Park and boosting the height of the Waitrose supermarket ramp.

In addition, Environment Agency staff have in recent years repaired sections of the flood bank along Eland Lane that had slumped, re-pointed the walls and replaced the expansion joints between the Diamond Inn and the Seven Stars on both banks to ensure they remain watertight and removed some large trees from the channel behind the Seven Stars and between Fox Covert Lane and Berwick Hill Bridge.

THE following candidates are standing for election to Northumberland County Council. Here they outline what they believe they can offer voters.

DRURIDGE BAY DIVISION

Lindsay Arkley

North View, Cresswell Road, Cresswell

Liberal Democrat

“I am standing as a Liberal Democrat in Druridge Bay because I want to make sure our beautiful nature reserve is protected for local people to enjoy. I also enjoy doing charity work with young people and want to make sure our area has ample opportunities for them to get on in life.”

Scott Dickinson

2 Beehive House, North Broomhill

Labour

“Labour will make sure that local firms get a fair crack at council contracts and its 1,300 affordable homes guarantee will provide an estimated £60million injection to the local economy.”

Daniel John Hedley

24 St Johns Estate, South Broomhill

Conservative

“I am a local man, keen sportsman and passionate about improving job prospects for local people.”

LONGHORSLEY DIVISION

David Malcolm Cox

Cheviot Lodge, Fairmoor, Morpeth

UK Independence Party

“It is time we had a new voice in Northumberland County Council, a voice of common sense, not tied to any of the other parties; a voice opposed to windfarms, to sort out the car-parking charges fiasco, to get rid of the Telford Bridge traffic lights, to try to get farmers a fair price for their produce, and our party is committed to deport serious criminals, regardless of their ‘Human Rights’ — what about our Human Rights? Vote for me and I will listen to you and work on your behalf.”

Otis Gilbert

East House, Mitford

Labour

“Labour will create at least 100 new apprentices a year because we need to tackle youth unemployment under the Tory-led Government.”

Charles Jevon

2 The Elms,

Longframlington

Liberal Democrat

“I was a Lib Dem councillor in Gateshead for 14 years before moving to Northumberland in 2007. I was a Chairman and Vice Chairman of school governing bodies and an active local campaigner. Currently based in Newcastle, I work for a national charity developing services across the North East and Cumbria. If elected I will represent the views of local people at County Hall and work alongside the parish councils to maintain and improve local services.”

Glen Sanderson

Eshott South Farm, Felton

Conservative

“I am a local farmer and county councillor. I was a former councillor on Castle Morpeth Borough Council. I have been working to improve community links and have been campaigning to introduce far stricter local planning controls on wind turbine development.”

LYNEMOUTH DIVISION

Milburn Douglas

62 Grange Court,

Widdrington

Labour

“Labour will create at least 2,000 high-quality construction jobs by building affordable homes for local families.”

Barry Kent

42 Park Road, Lynemouth

Liberal Democrat

“What my family and I most enjoy is the community spirit of the villages here. I’m standing because I believe in this community and believe the people here deserve better. I will work hard to encourage employers to come here and will fight for better facilities for our young people.”

Jeremy Lewis Wilcock

Stone Masons,

Netherwitton

Conservative

“I am a local businessman, keen to support plans for improved job opportunities in the Lynemouth area.”

MORPETH KIRKHILL

DIVISION

Dave Herne

20 Whiteacres, Morpeth

Conservative

“I am a well-known local man, who works locally and am involved in many community activities. A keen supporter of Morpeth Rugby Club, I have been a leading activist in the Lights Out campaign. I am determined to listen to the needs of local people and do not shy away from speaking up for them.”

Adrian Slassor

20 Northbourne Avenue, Morpeth

Labour

“Labour will guarantee to halt Liberal Democrat plans to privatise services, which have so far cost 1,500 council jobs, and will work with services to deliver better services for Northumberland’s residents.”

Andrew Tebbutt

15 The Kylins, Morpeth

Liberal Democrat

“Being a councillor brings with it considerable responsibility. Over the last five years I have faced up to many difficult and complex issues as a Cabinet member on Northumberland County Council. If re-elected I will continue to do my best for both Morpeth and Northumberland in whatever capacity I find myself. I will not make promises or commitments I know cannot be kept.”

MORPETH NORTH DIVISION

David Lee Bawn

31 The Villas, St Mary’s

Conservative

“I am Morpeth born, a solicitor by profession and keen to be a strong voice for Morpeth. I was one of the founders of the Lights Out campaign and a supporter of free parking for residents.”

Nic Best

57 Olympia Gardens,

Morpeth

Green Party

“Your new county councillors will serve for four years and there are going to be a lot of changes in Morpeth in that time — Morpeth deserves councillors who will represent the best interests of the town and who are able to work constructively across all political parties. I have shown I can do that.”

Ken Brown

32 Abbeygate, Morpeth

Liberal Democrat

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the work involved in being a town councillor for the last six years and the successes achieved in improving Morpeth’s situation. I believe that I have a track record of getting things done and I hope to continue serving the people of Morpeth North on the county council. Morpeth is a lovely town, a great place to live, to work, to go to school and also to visit. I have a strong commitment to making sure it stays that way.”

Colin Taylor

31 Northbourne Avenue, Morpeth

Labour

“Labour will make sure our streets, green spaces and communities are looked after by re-instating the Liberal Democrat £2million cut from the ‘street scene’ budget.”

MORPETH STOBHILL

DIVISION

John Beynon

9 Edward Street, Morpeth

Conservative

“For years a stalwart of the community, I was a leading member of Castle Morpeth Borough Council and until recently a very active Chairman of Morpeth Chamber of Trade. I am often seen on the fairways of Morpeth Golf Club. For years I have helped to organise Morpeth Fair Day and have been a leading member of the Lights Out campaign. For many years I have been speaking out against car-parking charges in Morpeth, which damage the prosperity of the town.”

Debra Davies

16 Howard Road, Morpeth

Labour

“Labour will give the final say to local communities, not County Hall, on free parking and traffic management so local people can directly influence issues like Telford Bridge.”

Ian Paul Lindley

8 Crookham Grove,

Stobhill Manor, Morpeth

Liberal Democrat

“The county of Northumberland has all that is needed for a great future. I want to help shape that future in ways that strengthen our communities and quality of life for all. Morpeth is benefitting from investments in the new health centre, shopping, the Northern Bypass and flood defences, but needs sensitive development, working with residents. I took advice from the UK’s best street designer and fought to prevent the Telford Bridge traffic lights long before they were built, and put forward the only alternative design so far, based on a mini-roundabout. In my own ward, I want to continue working for the people of Stobhill and delivering the Stobhill Regeneration Plan along with our key partners.”

PEGSWOOD DIVISION

Muriel Brown

Capri Lodge, Northgate, Morpeth

UK Independence Party

(UNAVAILABLE FOR COMMENT)

Sheila Luck

25 De Merley Gardens,

Widdrington Station

Conservative

“Events organiser and advisor to voluntary organisations, I specialise in marketing and health and safety, alongside dispute mediation and resolution.”

Sam (Alan) Sambrook

5 Spencer Drive, Pegswood

Labour

“I’m backing Labour’s pledge to build 1,300 affordable homes for local families across Northumberland.”

David Woodard

11 The Croft, Ulgham

Liberal Democrat

“I was elected by the council to be the first Chairman of the new unitary council in April 2009. I am extremely proud of this honour and of the way members of the Liberal Democrat minority administration at County Hall have worked well in cross-party committees and working groups with members of the other political groups. The public rarely gets an insight into this constructive aspect of a councillor’s work. Despite having over £100million less to spend over the last four years this work has contributed to the maintenance and improvement of services, plus no increase in Council Tax for the last three years.”

PONTELAND EAST AND

STANNINGTON DIVISION

Eileen Armstrong

Hillcrest, Prestwick

Village

Conservative

“I worked for a long time in the health service and now as a company director. I have been acclaimed for my work to improve the council’s treatment of people in need of respite care. I am campaigning against the windfarm application at Tranwell.”

Collin Dickinson

18 Broadacres, Bardon Mill

UK Independence Party

Joint statement with David Nicholson, candidate for Ponteland West.

“Whether through ignorance or arrogance, the main political party leaders have consistently ignored the genuine concerns of the voters in this country. UKIP is the only party to offer solutions to those concerns.”

PONTELAND NORTH DIVISION

Richard Dodd

Ogle Hill Head, Belsay

Conservative

“Local farmer and county councillor, I have been the Chairman of the county council’s Family and Children’s Services Committee and am particularly concerned to maintain good education in all areas of the county.”

PONTELAND SOUTH WITH HEDDON DIVISION

Peter Alan Jackson

Bradford Edge House,

Belsay

Conservative

“I am a well-known former Leader of Castle Morpeth Borough Council, local businessman and former Board Member of the development agency One NorthEast. I have been calling for the county council to be decentralised and to be far more responsive to local need.

“I have seen the need to invest in our road infrastructure and will continue to push the council to address this critical issue.”

Ian Shepherd Sotheran

3 Shaftoe Crescent,

Hexham

Liberal Democrat

“I am standing for Northumberland County Council for Ponteland South to ensure local people’s voices and opinions are heard in County Hall. I aim to work with other county councillors to ensure your money is spent wisely and also to ensure the greenbelt areas in Northumberland are protected.”

PONTELAND WEST DIVISION

Veronica Jones

22 Wallridge Cottages, Ingoe

Conservative

“A Wallridge resident, I have just been given a national award for my work for a more active life for our older people called Ageing Well. I am now the local champion for the roll-out of high-speed broadband in my locality.”

David Nicholson

3 Guidepost Cottages,

Belsay

UK Independence Party

Joint statement with Collin Dickinson, candidate for Ponteland East and Stannington.

“Whether through ignorance or arrogance, the main political party leaders have consistently ignored the genuine concerns of the voters in this country. UKIP is the only party to offer solutions to those concerns.”

THE following candidates are standing as candidates for parish and town councils in Northumberland.

Belsay (six seats): Rachel Elizabeth Batchelor, Keeper’s Cottage, Sandyford, Belsay; Dawn Holmes, Bolam Low House, Belsay; Edward Bede McDonnell, Rose Cottage, Belsay; Keith Metcalfe, 20 Wallridge Cottages, Ingoe; Fiona Campbell Mason Neilson, Arcade House, 13 The Arcade, Belsay; Keith John Storey, Greystones, Wallridge, Ingoe.

Cresswell (seven seats): Lindsay Arkley, North View, Cresswell Road, Cresswell; Loraine Gess, Crows Nest, Cresswell; Drew Laing, 12 The Elms, Ellington; John Michael McCann, Panhaggerty, Cresswell; Alan Richardson, 2 Lilac Court, Cresswell Road, Ellington; Caroline Smith, Wavecrest, Cresswell; Nigel Thompson, Golden Sands, Beach Road, Cresswell; Sandra Margaret Thompson, Golden Sands, Beach Road, Cresswell; Louise Wright, Manor House, Cresswell; Michael Keith Wright, Manor House, Cresswell.

East Chevington (East Chevington Coastal Ward) (two seats): Paul Claridge (Lab), 3 Station Road, North Broomhill.

East Chevington (East Chevington Town Ward) (eight seats): Mary Alice Charlton, 58 Simonside Crescent, Hadston; Scott James Dickinson (Lab), 2 Beehive House, North Broomhill; Ann Elliott, 62 St Johns Estate, South Broomhill; Penelope Ann Fidkin, 56 Woodside Crescent, Hadston; John Leach, 1 Willow Close, Hadston; Thelma Morse, 1 Lake View, Hadston; Anthony Reay (Lab), 2 Beehive House, North Broomhill; Fred Thurgood, 14 The Dunes, Hadston.

Ellington and Linton (12 seats): Pamela Allenby, 1 Potland View, Linton; June Mary Bailey, 28 Coquet Drive, Ellington; John Thomas Cole, Annan, Linton; George Jackson, 15 Breamish, Ellington; Janet Elizabeth Lawlor, Howick Villa, Lynemouth Road, Ellington; Louise Liddiatt, High Main, Linton Colliery; John Patterson, 39 Coquet Drive, Ellington; John Robson, 7 Ravensworth Gardens, Ellington; Kathleen Robson, 7 Ravensworth Gardens, Ellington; Hilda Tait, 14 Third Row, Ellington; David Wandless, Springwell, Ellington.

Hartburn (six seats): Susan Elizabeth Cansdale, The Bakers Chest, Hartburn; Ernest Mitchell Coe, Hartview, Hartburn; Peter Heatherington, Dene House, Hartburn; Robbie Howard, The Smithy, Hartburn; David Philipson, Angerton Home Farm, Hartburn; Alan Thompson, Angerton Broom House, Hartburn.

Hebron (six seats): Juliet Ruth Brewster, Howburn House, East Shieldhill; John Dungait, East Shield Hill Farmhouse, East Shield; Charles Raymond Green, Westwood, Hebron; Andrew Davidson Kelly, Foxfield, Hebron; Brian Moon, 1 Espley Court, Espley; David Watson, Cocklaw, Cockle Park.

Heddon On The Wall (Ward 1) (five seats): Richard Adams, 9 Valerian Avenue; Lil Cruickshank, 54 Trajan Walk; Alisoun Gardner Medwin, Flocktons, Station Road; David Greensitt, 5a Taberna Close; Bryn Tailford, 11 Trajan Walk; Hazel Anne Thompson, 27 Centurian Way.

Heddon On The Wall (Ward 2) (two seats): Michael Iley, 100 Trajan Walk; Robert Young, Allerburn Farm, East Heddon.

Heddon On The Wall (Ward 3) (two seats): Ian Hamilton Armstrong, 2 Bluebell Cottages, Houghton Moor.

Hepscott (five seats): Philip Barry Ashmore, Meadow Rise; David Cowans, The Pines, Fieldhouse Lane; Philippa Raper, 12 Barmoor Bank; Kenneth Reed, 4 Parkside.

Longhirst (seven seats): Catherine Mary Farrell, Ashtrees; Gillian Mary Featonby, Middle Moor Farm; Bob Jackson, Sydney Cottage, Longhirst Colliery; Maureen Lowes, 23 Longhirst Village; Christopher Marr, The Old Vicarage; Peter John McPherson Nicol, Highlees; Richard Tordoff, Longhirst Farmhouse.

Longhorsley (seven seats): Iain Stewart Elliott, Horsley Tower; Penny Ford, Pinewood, Church View; Marti Holland, 33 Whitegates; Mary Hughes, 17 Church View; Thomas Stuart Lowrie, Rest Harrow; Victoria Kate Pagan, 64 Church View; David Pringle, The Croft, West End.

Lynemouth (12 seats): Andrew Thomas Brotherton, 5 Matlock Square; Mark David Burdon, 39 Hermitage Gardens, Chester Le Street; Alec Crumplin, 44 Eden Terrace; Jo Crumplin, 44 Eden Terrace; Liz Dunn, 16 West Market Street; Tom Dunn, 16 West Market Street; Georgina Gartley Ayre, 18 Dalton Avenue; Brian Grisdale, 25 Ingleby Terrace; Ian Neilan Hampson, 70 Dalton Avenue; Kevin Hindmarsh, 4 Bridge Road; Barry Kent (LibDem), 42 Park Road; Kris Spratt, 30 River View; Bill Thompson, 78 Albion Terrace; Gillian Thompson, 78 Albion Terrace; Julie Elizabeth Tyler, 33 Fenham Road.

Matfen (Ward 1) (three seats): Francis Wilson Robson, South Farm, Ryal.

Matfen (Ward 2) (three seats): Robin Braithwaite Douglass, Low Hall; Ann Teresa Gregory Smith, 3 Paddock Close; John Telford, 5 The Oaks.

Meldon (Meldon Ward) (three seats): Peter John Cookson, The Old Rectory; Allan Frankland, The Old Smithy, Dyke Neuk; George Joseph Sanger, Rivergreen Cottage.

Meldon (Pigdon Ward) (six seats): Peter Brewis, Newton Underwood, Mitford; Margaret Isobel Taylor, Middle Molesden Cottage, Mitford; John Marshall Wilson, Rivergreen Mill, Molesden.

Mitford (six seats): Esther Ridley, Fairfield, Tranwell Woods; Margaret Elaine Scott, 25 Fontside; Mike Sharp, Newton Mill Farm; Brian Edward Talkes, The Manor House; David James Towns, 2 New Cottages.

Morpeth (Morpeth Kirkhill Ward) (five seats): Ken Brown (LibDem), 32 Abbey Gate; Jack Alexander Gebhard (Cons), 1 Sylvan Close; Dave Herne (Cons), 20 Whiteacres; David John Parker (LibDem), 4 The Kylins; Charlotte Elizabeth Peacock (Cons), 17 Glanton Close; Adrian Slassor (Lab), 20 Northbourne Avenue; Andrew Tebbutt (LibDem), 15 The Kylins; Joan Carol Tebbutt (LibDem), 15 The Kylins; Richard Wearmouth (Cons), Barmoor Farm House.

Morpeth (Morpeth North Ward) (five seats): David Lee Bawn (Cons), 31 The Villas, St Mary’s; Nicola Ann Bawn (Cons), 31 The Villas, St Mary’s; Nic Best (Green), 57 Olympia Gardens; Les Cassie (LibDem), 12 Cottingwood Lane; David E Clark (Ind), Millview, 3 Wansbeck Street; Ron Forster (Green), 3 River View; Bob Robertson (Ind), 33 Thorp Avenue; Richard Thompson (LibDem), 58 Wansdyke; Graeme Paul Trotter (LibDem), 18 Dacre Street; Johnny Wearmouth (Cons), Rose Cottage, Barmoor.

Morpeth (Morpeth Stobhill Ward) (five seats): Alison Byard (LibDem), 42 Crookham Grove; Mark Horton (LibDem), 39 The Kylins; Stuart Lishman (LibDem), 77 Newgate Street; Rachel Elizabeth Moore (Cons), 21 Greenfield Drive, Guidepost; Mark David Owen (LibDem), 17 Morpeth Avenue, Pegswood; David Lawrence Pope (LibDem), 9 Tenter Terrace.

Netherwitton (six seats): Hugo John McGowan, The Old Post Office, Longwitton; Mark Grant Robson, Bide-A-Wee Cottage, Stanton; David Bryan Ronn, Witton Shields House, Netherwitton; Louise Spriggs, Longwitton Hall; John Henry Thornton Trevelyan, Netherwitton Hall.

Nunnykirk (five seats): James Henry Bell, East Wingates Farm; Kirsty Barbara Bell, East Wingates Farm; Liz Bratton, Wingates Cottage.

Pegswood (nine seats): Linda Ann Doherty (Ind), 17 Burghley Gardens; Alan Hepburn Fowlie (Ind), 2 Petworth Gardens, Broxburn Park; John Park (Ind), Bothal Rectory; Pauline Proud (Ind), 3 Croome Gardens; Sam Sambrook (Lab), 5 Spencer Drive; Julie Stephenson (Ind) The Paddock, Fieldhouse Lane, Hepscott; Peter Stonell, 8 Bamburgh Drive; Simon Willcox, 5 Croome Gardens; David Woodard, 11 The Croft, Ulgham.

Ponteland (Ponteland East Ward) (three seats): Christine Hazel Caisley (Cons), Sycamore Cottage, Prestwick; Sue Johnson (Cons), 85 Cheviot View; Lesley Noble (Cons), 93 Cheviot View.

Ponteland (Ponteland North Ward) (three seats): Richard Dodd (Cons), Ogle Hill Head, Belsay; Christine Anne Greenwell (Cons), Station Lodge, Station Cottages; Adam Francis Shanley (Cons), 43 Linden Way, Darras Hall.

Ponteland (Ponteland South Ward) (three seats): Peter Cowey (Cons), 17 Linden Way, Darras Hall; Robin Ramsay (Cons), 11a The Rise, Darras Hall; Carl Maxwell Rawlings (Cons), 7 The Rise.

Ponteland (Ponteland West Ward) (three seats): Joyce Butcher (Cons), 16 Meadowvale, Darras Hall; Rob Punton (Cons), 30 Linden Way, Darras Hall; Elizabeth Eleanor Thompson (Cons), 211 Western Way.

Rothley (four seats): Esther Mills, 1 Rothley Sawmill Cottages, Scots Gap; Nanette Maud Robson, Rothley Mill Farm, Hartburn; Patricia Louise Sharp, Rothley Park Farm, Longwitton; Martin Shaw, Rothley House.

Stamfordham (Ward 1) (one seat): Edward Calverley Thornton Trevelyan, 14 Southside.

Stamfordham (Ward 2) (three seats): Linda Ann Boylan, 42 Grange Road; David John Fitzpatrick, Church House, Southside; Abby Smith, Burnside, Grange Avenue.

Stannington (eight seats): Helen Nadine Brown, No 1 Glororum Farm Cottages, Glororum Farm; Karen Audrey Carins, North Bran Moor Farm, Station Road; Sandra Dickinson, 6 Moor Lane; Alan Paul Roy Gregory, The Vicarage, Beechlea; Philip Allen Smith, 18 Green Close; Denise Anne Strachan, Clifton House, Clifton.

Thirston (six seats): Euan Alistair Davidson, The Steading, West Thirston; Hazel Lindley, Field Cottage, West Thirston; John Philip Birkett Marshall, The Sallings, West Thirston; Anne Herbertson Morton, Fairfields, West Thirston; Sandra Proctor, Woodcutters, Bainbridge Lane, Eshott; John Howard Secker, Emerson House, Bainbridge Lane, Eshott.

Tritlington and West Chevington (Tritlington Ward) (five seats): Dennis George Dixon, Welbeck House, Tritlington; Jack Arthur Feather, 4 Shield Green Farm, Tritlington; Richard Gibb, Old School House, Tritlington; Peter Maxwell Hogg, New Houses, Causey Park; Gemma Elizabeth Lunn, Lyneburn House, Fenrother.

Tritlington and West Chevington (West Chevington Ward) (two seats): David Elliott, 1 Chevington Moor Cottages, Chevington Moor.

Ulgham (five seats): George Brown, Bilsdale; Lesley Anne Newman, 4 Ulgham Grange Farm; Jim Scott, 10 The Croft; Helen Frances Shaw, 7 The Forge Estate.

Wallington Demesne (nine seats): Jonathan Aynsley, Wallington New Houses, Cambo; John Ballantine, 16 Oakford, Scots Gap; Denise Cowan, 14 Oakford, Scots Gap; Allison Douglass, 1 Garden Cottage, Middleton; Tom Dower, Saugh House, Cambo; Ken Fortune, 2 Garden Cottage, Middleton; Elsie Margaret Green, Thorn Tree House, Middleton.

Whalton (Ward 1) (two seats): Stephen James Trobe, Ogle Dene Farm; Leonard Waterworth, Lonnen House, Ogle.

Whalton (Ward 2) (four seats): William Arthur Grix, Hillhead Farm; Penelope Margaret Norton, The Manor House; Susan Christine Richardson, 14 Manor Close.

Widdrington Station and Stobswood (Stobswood Ward) (two seats): Kevin Batson, 12 Woodburn Street, Stobswood.

Widdrington Station and Stobswood (Widdrington Station Ward) (five seats): George Askew, 59 Mile Road; David Baron, 1 Monmouth Court; Anderson John Crowe, 25 Elizabeth Street; Isabell Fraser, 12 Grange Court; Joseph William Sennett, 7 Grange Court; Shelly Willoughby, 2 Liddell Terrace.

Widdrington Village (eight seats): Mark Stephen Coomber, Lawvale Cottage; Maria Farrow-Tait, The Stables, 2 Houndalee Cottages East; David Gair, Bracken Barn, Priory View; Mary Gair, Bracken Barn, Priory View; James Alexander Grant, Joiners Cottage; John Grant, Shamal, Mile Road; Dale Page, 2 Castle Mound; Valerie Russell Seddon, Lawvale Cottage.

TWO young Morpeth rugby players put in some impressive performances when they represented the England Lambs U11s side on their south of France tour.

James Blackett and Philip Brantingham, both key members of the very successful Morpeth RFC U11s squad, were part of the 18 who played five matches against the best sides in the region.

The team beat Blagnac RFC Academy, Avenir Castanean U12s, Montauban Academy and Avenir Castanean U13s, only losing to the national champions Stade Toulousain Academy.

Both boys took part in all the fixtures and scored tries in different games. James played at fly-half, setting the back line away very well, always looking for space and kicking with vision.

Philip played at prop and made many powerful runs down the centre, setting up great field positions for the backs.

FURTHER clearing work will be carried out at the Juliet Oakley Activity Area in Pegswood.

A large amount of rubble has been removed from a site between the hedge and the railway line, but there is now some debris that needs to be taken away.

Pegswood Parish Council agreed to seek quotes for the work. Clerk Kevin Cassie said the authority has a duty of care for the land.

THREE organisations have received funding support from Ponteland Town Council.

Ponteland Youth Service was given £5,500 to help with the costs for its work and activities with young people in the area. A contribution of £600 towards the upkeep of the bridlepath was approved for the Darras Hall Estate Committee and Community Action Northumberland got £100.

A BUDDING author has hit on a novel way of trying to secure a book deal.

Psychiatric nurse Michael Carl Jeffrey has always longed to publish a book and now the Pegswood dad is finally putting pen to paper.

But instead of sending his horror novella off to a publisher, Mr Jeffrey is posting it online in a series.

“This is my first real attempt at writing a book,” he said.

“I have a few friends who are established authors and they recommended that I do it free online first. If I get enough feedback and a following I can then go to a publisher with a little bit more clout behind me as opposed to just sending out a manuscript and it going straight in the bin.”

Mr Jeffrey has been inspired by American author Hugh Howey, who started off writing online and has now sold more than a million books worldwide in his popular Wool series.

The Pegswood writer’s book Ring Of Roses is set in Northumberland and is based on a plague.

He advertises it on Facebook and Twitter social media sites and encourages his readers to get involved in the plot.

“The plot line is done, but I’m writing it and developing it as I go along,” he said.

“There is an element where people can make suggestions and anybody who comments can have a character name. I’m trying to make it as personal as possible for people.”

The series has been running for about three weeks and so far 800 readers have logged on, with many giving encouragement.

Mr Jeffrey said: “It is really quite humbling to see the comments. It is quite a shock when people say such nice things about it.”

To read the book visit www.mcjeffreyblog.wordpress.com

PREMIER DIVISION

Heaton Stannington hit top gear in the title run in as Lee Johnson smashed in a hat-trick in a demolition job on Percy Main yesterday.

Gary McGarrigal headed in, Jonathon Wright tucked away another and Kev Carr drilled in low from a corner while Johnson nodded home, took advantage of a defensive mix-up and fired in to complete a fine treble. Adrian Watson lobbed in a consolation.

Blyth Town kept their own title hopes alive with three late goals at Carlisle City that probably put paid to any lingering hopes that the Cumbrians harboured of taking the silverware themselves.

Jack Stanley fired in from a corner to give unbeaten Town an early advantage and City took a further blow when keeper Adam Bradley went off injured and had to be replaced by midfielder Stuart Kilgour between the sticks.

However, goals from Dan Greenslade and Dan Bulman turned things around only for sub Graham Heath to equalise in the 76th minute and Blyth breathed easier just 60 seconds later as John Amos put them ahead. Kyle devlin rounded things off with a couple of minutes to go.

Harraby United’s Dean Armstrong let fly from 25 yards to add to Lee Otway’s opener at Killingworth Sporting, who hit a late consolation through Ben Taylor.

And goals from Reece Davies and Karl Campbell gave Stocksfield the points against Shankhouse, who netted through Paul Dunn.

Ray Oshin haunted his former Hebburn Reyrolle team-mates with a double that keeps them in the relegation zone. Michael Fenwick, Mason Stephenson and Kevin Westphal added the others for Seaton Delaval.

Ashington Colliers maintained their good run with goals from Michael Hogg and Jamie Patterson at relegated Rutherford, who had levelled through Shaun Todhunter.

BILL GARDNER MEMORIAL TROPHY

Craig Burke plundered four and he was joined on the scoresheet by Gav Jones and Steve Matthews as holders Wallsend Town booked a spot in the Pin Point Recruitment Bill Gardner Memorial Trophy Final at Cramlington Town, who led thanks to a Dean Nicholl strike.

DIVISION ONE

Wallington’s Jordan Nellis hit another hat-trick as the Greens maintained a 10-point advantage at the top of Division One. Sam Walton bagged a brace, with Ryan Davenport notching the consolation for hosts Redheugh.

Willington Quay Saints led at Red House Farm but goals from Haydor Hassan and Lee Brady kept Farm’s promotion push on track, while Northbank’s Mark Worral (two), Cameron Wilson (two) and John Slaven crashed in without reply at Cullercoats.

Richard Kent hit the winner for Ponteland United in a close game at Hexham, while Matty Atkin (two) and Alex Kennedy were the Bohemians hit-men in their narrow victory at Forest Hall, who chalked up through Dan McDonald and Diu Lomana.

DIVISION TWO

Matty Donkin slammed in four as North Shields Athletic got their Division Two title bid back on track against Cramlington United.

Lee Crammond got two and Scott Jasper the other, with United hitting back through Kye Foster and Michael Jordan.

Birtley Saint Joseph’s had Michael Redshaw, Damien Stevens, Dan Irving and James Bowman fire in during their success at Wallsend Boys Club, while Wooler’s Shaun Palmer grabbed the only goal at Longbenton.

Lee Waugh, Joe Besford, Dean Lees and Louis Boddy were on the scoresheet for New Fordley at Grainger Park, who replied through Chrissy Robinson and Shaun Sager.

An own-goal and Ollie Cartwright shot gave Alston the points against High Howdon.

Dave Hewitt, Andrew Bennett and Stuart Taylor netted for Seaton Burn in a good win at Blyth Isabella.

Two superb strikes from Allan Storey and Matty Clayton gave Newcastle Benfield Reserves a hard-fought win against Swalwell, who struck through Adam Langley and applied plenty of pressure without being able to beat the in-form Benfield keeper again.

RESULTS

Pin Point Recruitment Bill Gardner Memorial Trophy Semi-Final

Cramlington Town 1 Wallsend Town 6

Premier Division

Carlisle City 2 Blyth Town 4

Gateshead Rutherford 1 Ashington Colliers 2

Killingworth Sporting 1 Harraby Utd 2

Percy Main Amateurs 1 Heaton Stannington 6

Seaton Delaval Amateurs 5 Hebburn Reyrolle 0

Stocksfield 2 Shankhouse 1

Division One

Cullercoats 0 Northbank Carlisle 5

Forest Hall 2 Gosforth Bohemians 3

Gateshead Redheugh 1957 1 Wallington 5

Hexham 0 Ponteland United 1

Red House Farm 2 Willington Quay Saints 1

Division Two

Alston 2 High Howdon S C 0

Blyth Isabella 0 Seaton Burn 3

Grainger Park B C 2 New Fordley 4

Longbenton 0 Wooler 1

Newcastle Benfield Reserves 2 Swalwell 1

North Shields Athletic 7 Cramlington United 2

Wallsend Boys Club 0 Birtley St Joseph’s 4

South East Northumberland MS Society

THIS week, members enjoyed their annual Spring meal, which was originally the Christmas meal.

They gathered at the St James Community Centre in Morpeth with friends and supporters to enjoy a hot three-course meal provided by Hartford Caterers.

The chairman, Mr John Sanderson, and Mrs Barbara Clasper were thanked for organising the evening and the caterers were also thanked for providing a superb meal.

This was the last event of the year as the AGM will be held on May 15 – when a review of the year will be given and new officers elected. If anyone would like to volunteer for the MS Society in any way, they can come along or call the local free helpline number: 01670 858939.

The new programme begins with a representative from Barter Books, Alnwick, on June 12.

All meetings are held in St James Community Centre from 7pm. Those who would like more info about multiple sclerosis can dial the helpline number mentioned above.

Interested residents can also keep up-to-date with the branch’s activities on Facebook – www.facebook.com/southeast.nland.ms

THE following planning applications have been submitted to Northumberland County Council.

Belsay: Mr Dave Sheppard, Belsay First School, trees in a Conservation Area, fell one false acacia, prune and remove branches to one silver maple, remove one self-seeded sycamore, remove one willow and reduce to ground level one willow.

Heddon On The Wall: Mrs Anna Wilson, Heddon Hall, Listed Building Consent, internal alterations to provide family accommodation within the main portion of the listed property and upgrade ground floor area to north of property to provide a holiday flat, previously caretakers’ accommodation.

Mitford: Mr and Mrs Mark Anderson, Woodlands, Tranwell Woods, various alterations, including to roof, construction of entrance walls, new driveway, hard and landscaping to garden, installation of sewerage treatment plant and water storage tank.

Morpeth: Mr Neil Redpath, 1 Green Lane, Stobhillgate, non-material amendment to permission 12/02915/FUL, front single storey lean-to extension and side first floor extension over garage; Mr and Mrs Michael and Agnes Newies, 29 Olympia Hill, single storey flat roof extension to rear; Mr Paul Nichols, Shooters Bar, 43-45 Bridge Street, refurbishment of nightclub into ground floor retail unit with staff accommodation above, strip external rear asbestos cement clad extension and re-clad with plastic coated insulated panels, minor modification to second floor window to rear elevation of original building.

Nunnykirk: Mr A Thompson, Old School, Wingates, new driveway and single garage, construction of stables and all-weather riding surface to field to rear of property.

Ponteland: Mr Aftab Nemat, 180 Middle Drive, Darras Hall, prior notification for demolition of detached house and garage; Mr Martin Watson, land at Woodside, Darras Hall, amendment to reduce height of garage roof relating to application 12/02044/FUL, construction of one two to three storey dwelling house; Mrs Angela Priestly, 44 Dunsgreen, dining room extension and first floor extension over to form bedroom.

Whalton: CT and NU Irwin, Thorneyford Farm, Kirkley, change of use of a group of agricultural buildings in curtilage of Grade II Listed farmhouse to create farming business diversification with regard to cycle repair and sales and a farm cafe, including additions to create kitchen, staff room and public toilets, constructions of new vehicular access and access road; also Listed Building Consent; Mrs Sue Hall, Whalton C of E First School, extension to form new entrance with accessible ramp and reception office; also Listed Building Consent.

Widdrington Station and Stobswood: Mr Christopher Constable, land to the rear of The Smithy, The Stables, The Forge, The Fold and The Mill, Ulgham Park Farm, change of use from former opencast mining site to garden; Mr Darren Townsley, 2 Grange View, Widdrington Station, retrospective, construction of 1.5m painted timber boundary fence.