paul@newtonnews.co.uk

There is nothing ‘new’ about a ‘New Year’, of cours, except the date. The leftovers of 2018, personal as well as national, trundle over into 2019, and this week’s Newton News reflects some of that – for example the ongoing financial pressures for the County Council, and our Neighbourhood Police’s continuing battle with crime and anti-social behaviour.
But it is also true that the start of a new year inspires many people to new initiatives, and this week’s edition is much more about the excitement of the new than the legacies of the old. A County Council survey is seeking our vision for County Durham’s future, and the Council is planning to bring ten empty properties back into use to help people facing homelessness.
There are entrepreneurial openings at Salvus House, and engaging activities at the PCP. SSAFA have a new drop-in centre, and you will notice a number of other opportunities for social and physical activities – from walking football to a 10k obstacle course. There is news of an adventurous new visitor attraction at Lumley Castle, and even the promise of a cut to our water bills (caveat: some time in the future).
So, all in all, this week’s edition left us feeling positive, and full of hope for a vibrant Newton Aycliffe future.
One article in particular made us smile – the notice of the St Clare’s Feel Good Film Show ‘Joyful Noise’. The tale is of a choir riven with funding problems and internecine conflicts – it could be a metaphor for our times! So let’s hope that, like the film, 2019 delivers a happy ending.
LORD FOSTER
The tribute to Lord Foster of Bishop Auckland, who died on 6th January, reveal what a wonderful man he was. Approachable, caring and honest, he did ‘kinder politics’ long before it became a soundbite. His life married political ability with loyalty and integrity, and we were fortunate to have him for a time as our MP.