By Paul Fraser A father and son combination wants to take Newton Aycliffe-based RJS Laser into an exciting new chapter after investing more than £1m in equipment. Rob Smedley, managing director, and Jamie Smedley, general manager, are proud the family business has become the first laser cutting and metal folding/bending specialists in the...

Six long-distance walking trails inspired by the North East’s historic reputation as a place of pilgrimage are playing a significant role in boosting Durham’s tourism economy. Launched last year, the Northern Saints Trails cover more than 200 miles and are positioning the North-East as the Christian Crossroads of the British Isles. Based...

Children across County Durham can enjoy a fun-packed summer break by taking advantage of a range of free activities during the school holidays. The sessions are part of the Fun and Food programme, which provides holiday activities with healthy food for families on low incomes. Durham County Council has received over £2.3 million from the...

An apprenticeships provider which specialises in the tech and digital sectors is aiming to create at least 50 new jobs after relocating to a new £1m head office. Baltic Apprenticeships have completed the purchase of Pioneer House, at Pioneer Court Business Park in Darlington, to create a central hub for their growing team. The firm had been...

Lee Weldon's weekly round-up from the wicket... Saturday 16th July – NYSD Division 2 Newton Aycliffe 1st XI v Maltby 1st XI – weather was hot and sunny. Newton Aycliffe won the toss and chose to bowl first. Maltby 1st XI 230 all out after 39.2 overs Matty Greaves 5 for 53, Luke Telford 2 for 18 and Sean Morgan 2 for 32 Newton...

Hundreds of spectators turned out to see the Queen’s Baton Relay carried through County Durham. Birmingham 2022 is hosting the 16th official Queen's Baton Relay - a journey which brings together and celebrates communities during the build-up to the Commonwealth Games. Across England, the Queen's Baton Relay is providing an opportunity for...

By Steven Dawson Several members took part in the Darlington Trail Series run 4 with this being a 5k run around West Park at the end of June. The results were not available for last week’s report but have now been released. First back for the club in 2nd place was Paul Dalton in a time of 18:44. He was followed by Daniel Tatham in a...

A scheme which sees university students from around the world go into schools to tell pupils about their higher education journey has won an award. Durham County Council has been working alongside Durham University as part of the Global Schools project. During their visits to County Durham schools the students tell pupils about their home...

By Paul Blythe A round-up of this week’s football from Newton Aycliffe Junior Section… Under 7’s Reds – Entered into the Bishop Auckland St Mary's Tournament held at Bishop Auckland College, the team had a wonderful day in the soaring conditions and played some particularly good football. Under 7’s Juniors – Entered into the...

Staff at Greenfield Community College have thanked members of the community for their kind donations to the school’s uniform fund. The school are finding ways to support the community during the cost-of-living crisis. And they say they’ve been thrilled with the response from families and organisations who have been quick to offer help in...