Community
Positive local stories, useful developments and people making a difference in Community.

Stockton community groups can apply for share of £300,000 resilience fund
Not-for-profit organisations supporting Stockton residents can apply for grants of up to £30,000. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 30 October.
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Major South Gare protection works begin to strengthen River Tees against future storms
The first phase will place around 15,000 tonnes of high-density granite around the 150-year-old breakwater after extensive engineering work.

Teesport handles record 57,800-tonne corn call as electric cranes boost efficiency
The ST Sofia became the port’s largest single-calling corn vessel, with investment helping the bulks team lift productivity sharply since 2016.

Redcar and Cleveland’s first 60kW rapid EV chargers go live in Guisborough
The new Fountain Street East chargers add to a growing public network, with more locations planned across the borough.

Families invited to plant 8,500 bulbs across Darlington parks this half-term
Free planting sessions will add spring colour around more than 100 trees while supporting pollinators and community pride.

Patients and staff help honour Tees NHS heroes at first Caring Better Together Awards
Fifteen award categories celebrated clinical, support and volunteer teams from hospitals and community services across Tees Valley and North Yorkshire.

Tees Valley supporters raise more than £12,000 for MFC Foundation in 14,000ft skydive
Twenty-one volunteers took the plunge at Shotton Colliery Airfield to support the Foundation’s community work.

Middlesbrough’s Union Village named top winner at national Housing Design Awards
The Gresham development of 145 homes and four communal gardens has won both the overall Winner of Winners title and a Healthy Homes award.

£240,000 fund creates 11 new youth clubs and activities across Middlesbrough
New sessions will fill gaps in neighbourhoods including Easterside, Linthorpe, Trimdon, Marton and Nunthorpe, with extra provision elsewhere too.

Hartlepool Enterprise Centre goes on market with its small-business role protected
The 47-unit centre is being offered for sale as a going concern, with a condition that it continues supporting start-ups and small firms.

Tees Valley’s AI traffic system wins global recognition after cutting delays
The region’s digital transport team has picked up major awards for technology that has already saved thousands of hours of travel time.

Stockton chosen for one of the UK’s first Deliveroo robot delivery rollouts
Fully electric delivery robots are set to arrive in Stockton as Coco Robotics makes its UK debut with Deliveroo.

New Business Tees Valley model opens seven routes for local delivery partners
Organisations across the region are being invited to help build a more joined-up business support system covering sectors from advanced manufacturing to female founders.

Inside Middlesbrough’s new Pitch! Sports Bar as huge new venue opens its doors
A new sports and social venue has opened beneath the A66 in Middlesbrough, with a 23ft screen, 27 TVs, sports simulators, interactive darts, pool, food and drink.
CommunityBillingham’s first senior women’s football team marks home FA Cup debut with 4–0 win
Wolviston FC Ladies have followed their first competitive victory with a 4–0 home FA Cup win, four months after the club formed its first senior women’s side.

THREE60 Energy expands Teesside presence with new CF Fertilisers contract
Engineering firm THREE60 Energy has secured a new contract to support CF Fertilisers’ Billingham and North Tees sites, with the company saying the work will help grow its local engineering capability and create further employment opportunities.

Teesport handles 5,000 vehicles in one of its biggest recent automotive ship calls
A shipment of 5,000 vehicles has arrived at Teesport, including the first 1,300 Lepas plug-in hybrid cars imported into the UK market.

Accessibility fund opens up more of Darlington’s historic pumping station
Volunteer-run Tees Cottage Pumping Station has improved paths and access after receiving support from a Tees Valley scheme designed to make visitor attractions more inclusive.

Plans submitted for new STEM centre at Darlington Science Park
A proposed specialist STEM centre at Central Park would bring laboratories, immersive learning facilities and a 200-seat lecture theatre to Darlington’s innovation district.

Hartlepool charity cricket match raises £6,000 for Alice House Hospice
A 20-over match at Park Drive has raised £6,000 for Alice House Hospice while bringing local players, families and businesses together around a memorial trophy.
£8.2m transformation brings new classrooms, kitchen and solar panels to Stockton primary school
Two years of building work at Oxbridge Lane Primary School have finished, modernising the 1890 school while retaining its historic character.

Middlesbrough tests all-electric street cleaner in town-centre trial
A new electric vacuum-and-water street cleaning machine is being tested across Middlesbrough, with the council assessing whether it could become part of its regular cleaning fleet.

Little Boro will turn Centre Square into a ten-day creative neighbourhood
A free pop-up village built from repurposed shipping containers will bring artists, workshops and performances into Middlesbrough’s Centre Square during Art Week.
Darlington children’s physiotherapy lead takes paediatric MSK case to national stage
Chloe Wearmouth is using her work with children and young people in the North East to argue for stronger specialist musculoskeletal services nationally.

Middlesbrough gives green light to town-centre plans for new theatre, homes and public spaces
Middlesbrough’s long-term town-centre strategy has been approved, moving ambitions for a new theatre, thousands of homes, a hotel and new public spaces into their next stage.
Darlington’s new Health Squad takes care to people who struggle to reach it
A new community health service is helping Darlington residents who face barriers to traditional healthcare, with more than 40 people already supported since June.

Stockton doctor retires after nearly 40 years shaping Teesside breast screening
Dr William Thompson has retired after a career that helped establish breast imaging at North Tees and develop the service from a single radiologist into a major Tees Valley screening team.

Hartlepool veterans hub keeps a free weekly place open for ex-service families
A free veterans hub at Victoria Park is giving former service personnel and their families a regular place to meet, get practical support and stay connected.

Marton Interchange set to fully reopen after six months of major repairs
A key Middlesbrough junction is due to fully reopen this weekend after a six-month programme designed to give the 54-year-old structure a longer life.
Yarm day party turns 70s, 80s and 90s hits into fundraiser for local wellness centre
A four-hour daytime party at The Keys in Yarm will raise money for Yarm Wellness Centre, with DJ Nige playing music from the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

New Tees Business Showcase opens registration for Riverside Stadium event
A new business showcase and forum at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium will bring together up to 60 exhibitors, workshops, speakers and networking on 20 October.

Tees archaeology events open a window on medieval life and a rare chance to search the fields
A day of new research in Stockton and free fieldwalking near Greatham will give people two very different ways to explore the Tees Valley’s past this autumn.

Staithes turns into a village-wide gallery for free arts and heritage festival
More than 100 artists will fill cottages, studios and community spaces across Staithes when its Arts and Heritage Festival returns from 11 to 13 September.

Hartlepool charity golf day tees up support for local families this Friday
Miles For Men & Walk For Women is bringing teams together at Hartlepool Golf Club on 4 September to raise money for local people facing cancer and other serious health challenges.

Free Middlesbrough Young Producers programme gives 15 to 21-year-olds the keys to live events
Musinc’s free Young Producers programme returns at Middlesbrough Town Hall, helping young people build practical skills by planning and delivering a real live event.

Teesside Park artisan market puts local makers centre stage this Friday
Little Bird Made returns to Teesside Park on Friday 4 September with independent makers, artists, jewellers and food producers trading from 10am to 4pm.

Saltburn play café offers free sessions for emergency service families
The Nook Play Café in Saltburn is opening its doors for free to emergency service staff and their young children, aiming to provide a supportive space for families.

Middlesbrough residents invited to shape plans for 462-home Middlehaven neighbourhood
New proposals for Middlehaven would bring 462 homes, shared gardens, play streets and green walking routes around the Old Town Hall, with residents invited to help shape the plans at a public drop-in on 10 September.

Darlington tenants raise £1,700 to support dogs waiting for new homes
Residents from Branksome Hall Drive and Darlington Council housing staff have handed £1,700 to Dogs Trust Darlington, with the money staying at the local centre to support enrichment activities and veterinary care.

£750,000 boost will expand James Cook radiotherapy team and treatment capacity
The James Cook University Hospital is recruiting at least 10 therapeutic radiographers after a £750,000 funding boost aimed at increasing capacity and reducing cancer treatment waits.

100 patients benefit from pioneering heart procedure at James Cook
A minimally invasive heart procedure at The James Cook University Hospital has now helped 100 patients, including an 86-year-old Nunthorpe woman hoping to climb Roseberry Topping again.

£5 Afrobeats class brings welcoming Wednesday-night dancing to Stockton
Dance Beats returns to ARC Stockton on Wednesday evenings, offering an adults-only Afrobeats dance class focused on fun, confidence and accessible movement rather than perfect steps.

Darlington turns 530 tonnes of food waste into energy and farm fertiliser
Darlington households have recycled more than 530 tonnes of food waste in the first 12 weeks of the borough's collection scheme, with the material being converted into low-carbon energy, vehicle fuel and fertiliser.
Stockton residents invited to help shape the borough’s next priorities
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is asking adults across the borough to share their experiences of local life, with feedback feeding into future priorities, services and planning.

Free Stockton nature walk opens up one of Tees Valley’s urban wildlife havens
A free guided walk at Portrack Marsh and Maze Park on 26 September will bring Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Cleveland Naturalists Field Club experts together to explore wildlife in the heart of Stockton.

Free September sea watch invites families to scan Saltburn’s horizon for dolphins
Tees Valley Wildlife Trust is inviting beginners, families and experienced wildlife watchers to a free social sea watch at Saltburn on Sunday 20 September.

Teesside hospital members invited inside NHS plans, progress and innovation
University Hospitals Tees is opening its October annual general meeting to foundation trust members, with local teams presenting achievements, future plans and healthcare developments.

Darlington GP partnership puts NHS App skills into free adult learning courses
A new partnership between Learning & Skills Darlington and all 11 GP practices in the town will help residents build everyday digital skills and learn how to use the NHS App.

Tees Valley tennis charity opens financial support for young players
Families can now apply for help with coaching, equipment, competition and travel costs where money is stopping an 8 to 18-year-old from taking part in tennis or padel.

Free Tees Expo brings hundreds of businesses together at the Riverside this September
Tees Expo returns to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium on 17 September, with free delegate entry, more than 70 exhibitors and a programme of business talks and networking.

Tees Valley’s ten-year growth plan puts skills, transport and local businesses at the centre
A new ten-year Local Growth Plan sets out how the region intends to focus investment on business growth, transport links, skills and attracting new employers.

Seventeen Teesside and Skinningrove apprentices prepare to start British Steel careers
A new group of electrical, mechanical and structural engineering apprentices will begin training in September through TTE and Middlesbrough College Group before moving into British Steel’s northern sites.

Stockton care business puts emerging Tees Valley firms in the spotlight
Moonrise 24hr Recruitment is sponsoring the Best New Business category at the Tees Businesswomen Awards for a third year as nominations remain open until 7 September.

Billingham firm backs award celebrating Teesside charities for a third year
CF Fertilisers is again supporting the Charity Award at the Tees Businesswomen Awards, which recognises charities and voluntary organisations making a difference across the region.
Hartlepool celebrates young people building skills through supported internships and volunteering
Young people from Hartlepool have been recognised for their achievements through supported internships and community volunteering, with an awards celebration highlighting growing confidence, workplace skills and contribution to the town.

Middlesbrough Town Hall clock gets specialist restoration to keep it ticking for generations
The landmark Town Hall clock has temporarily lost its hands while specialists restore the historic mechanism, with work due to be completed in September.

Young people help shape bold new vision for Middlesbrough town centre
Plans for Middlesbrough town centre include a new theatre, hotel, green public spaces and thousands of homes, with feedback from 1,300 young people, parents and carers helping to shape the strategy.

Tees businesswomen call on the region to recognise female talent before awards deadline
Three leading Teesside businesswomen have urged employers and colleagues to put forward women whose work deserves recognition, with nominations for the 2026 Tees Businesswomen Awards closing on 7 September.

£40m East Middlesbrough programme puts local people at the table for Park End and Thorntree
Park End and Thorntree are each set to receive £20m over the next decade, and residents, businesses and community figures are being invited to help decide what happens next.

Free boiler servicing offer gives eligible Stockton households until the end of September to get winter-ready
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is offering free boiler servicing to eligible homeowners until 30 September through its Warm Homes Healthy People scheme.
Hartlepool students turn GCSE results day into a launchpad for what comes next
High Tunstall students Carys Barker and Will Eddowes-Cahill are among the young people celebrating GCSE results in Hartlepool, with college, sixth form and ambitious careers already in sight.

Tees Valley community groups can apply for The Teesside Charity’s next round of grants
The Teesside Charity has opened applications for its December 2026 grant meeting, giving community projects across the five Tees Valley council areas until 12 November to make their case for support.

Orange Pip marks 10 years with a September street celebration in Middlesbrough
Orange Pip Market will celebrate its tenth anniversary on Baker and Bedford Streets on Saturday 26 September, with six hours of food, independent makers, music and artists.

College staff swap the day job for a 60-mile Tour de Tees and community volunteering
Staff from colleges across the Tees Valley spent a day cycling, litter-picking, gardening, repairing clothes and improving community spaces as part of Education Training Collective’s annual Time for Tees volunteering campaign.

Steph McGovern speaks out on Middlesbrough: ‘The real issue goes much deeper than this’
Middlesbrough-raised broadcaster Steph McGovern has called for punishment for those responsible for recent crimes, while arguing that the town’s violence cannot be separated from decades of deprivation, lost industry and underinvestment.

Park Drive’s bank holiday sport weekend will raise money for Alice House Hospice
Two free charity events at Hartlepool’s Park Drive cricket ground on 30 and 31 August will remember local sporting figures while raising money for Alice House Hospice.

Stockton’s £5 dance class puts beginners, access and community before perfection
ARC’s weekly Move It and Shake It sessions return in September with gentle, adaptable dance-based exercise for adults of all fitness levels.

£1 life drawing nights bring inclusive, alcohol-free creativity to Hartlepool Art Gallery
Hartlepool Art Gallery is teaming up with The Marra Project for four relaxed life drawing evenings this autumn, with live models, materials provided and tickets costing just £1.

Teesside Hospice golf day brings local teams together to support end-of-life care
Teesside Hospice’s annual golf day returns to Eaglescliffe Golf Club on 11 September, with teams raising money for hospice care across the local community.

Middlesbrough family transport firm wins expanded UK distribution contract
Middlesbrough-based Hutchinson Transport has secured additional nationwide work with Univar Solutions after its performance on an existing contract.

Northern Skills becomes MC Apprenticeships & Training after 6,000-person consultation
Middlesbrough College has brought its apprenticeship and employer-training provision closer to the main college brand following consultation with more than 6,000 stakeholders.

Saltburn cliff lift and pier become the latest stars of Teesside art collection
Saltburn’s cliff lift and pier feature in the third design from Tees Business’s Infant Hercules collection celebrating Teesside landmarks and identity.

Ann Ming receives first Tees Business LIVE standing ovation after sharing story of determination
Teesside campaigner Ann Ming MBE received the first standing ovation in Tees Business LIVE history after speaking to an 85-strong audience in Middlesbrough.

North Ormesby charity day puts bikes, music and family fun behind support for MAIN
The Jovial Monk in North Ormesby is hosting a family fundraising day for Teesside charity MAIN on Sunday 30 August, with a sponsored motorbike ride, live music, games and food.

Patients invited to nominate the people who make Teesside’s hospitals better
University Hospitals Tees has opened public nominations for its first Caring Better Together awards, giving patients and families until 6 September to recognise staff, volunteers and teams across the region.

Alice House’s new charity golf day brings local businesses together for hospice care
Alice House Hospice is teaming up with Hartlepool businesses Property Webmasters and Devato for a new charity golf day at Ramside Hall on 8 September.

Tees Businesswomen Awards enter final week for nominations
Businesses and individuals have until Monday 7 September to enter or nominate people for the 2026 Tees Businesswomen Awards, with twelve categories open across the region.

Hartlepool student turns NHS placement into a route towards children’s nursing
Hartlepool Sixth Form student Lucy Skedd says a placement at the University Hospital of North Tees confirmed that children’s nursing is the career she wants to pursue.

Teesside Hospice’s first community ball puts local families at the heart of the night
Together We Care comes to Bloom in Middlesbrough on 18 September, created with supporters as a celebration of the families, staff and volunteers around Teesside Hospice.
Redcar community groups can meet major funders face to face at free September fair
Enhance Redcar & Cleveland's second Funders Fair will bring a dozen grant-makers and support organisations to the 25K Community Centre on 24 September.

Free September workshops bring funding and start-up support across the Tees Valley
A run of fully funded workshops will take practical business support to Stockton, Hartlepool, Redcar and Darlington during September.

Hartlepool filmmakers’ collective marks three years of free creative support
In The Frame Collective will celebrate its third birthday on 3 September after three years of free screenings, workshops, networking and practical support for regional filmmakers.

Alice House Hospice brings lantern-lit Starlight Memory Stroll back to Seaton Carew
A 5K evening walk on 26 September will bring people together along Seaton Carew seafront in memory of loved ones while raising money for Alice House Hospice.

Middlesbrough community groups have three funding deadlines approaching in September
Local groups can currently apply for several Middlesbrough Council funds, while a free 8 September workshop will help voluntary organisations search for grants and strengthen applications.

Free 5km AquaPaddle invites kayaks, canoes and boards onto the Tees in Stockton
Stockton’s volunteer-led AquaPaddle returns on 6 September, offering a free 5km social paddle through the town centre for people bringing their own suitable craft.

£2,000 donation will help Redcar young carers get a day that recognises what they do
A community-fund award to The Junction Foundation is helping support a celebration for young people who take on caring responsibilities at home.

Redcar’s richest raceday returns with £150,000 Two-Year-Old Trophy and free entry for under-18s
Redcar Racecourse’s biggest meeting of the season takes place on 3 October, with the £150,000 Two-Year-Old Trophy at the centre of the card.

Middlesbrough’s Class of ’86 reunites to raise money for Gary Parkinson’s care
Former Middlesbrough players from the club’s Class of ’86 are coming together at the Town Hall on 10 September in support of ex-teammate Gary Parkinson.

Tees Tech Trek will take a 30km charity challenge from Saltburn to Whitby
Outrank staff and supporters are preparing to walk 30.4km from Saltburn to Whitby on 12 September to raise money for Teesside Hospice and MFC Foundation.

The Junction’s Storybook Ball will raise money for Tees Valley children and young people
The Junction Foundation is holding its second annual fundraising ball at Gisborough Hall on 14 November, supporting its work with children, young people and families.

Darlington’s railway coffee morning is still making room for conversation ten years on
Hopetown’s free monthly group for men with railway connections continues this autumn after marking its tenth anniversary earlier this year.

Hartlepool’s Street Food Carousel rolls back into Church Square this September
The town-centre food and independent-trader event returns on 19 September, with another date already lined up for Halloween.

Darlington opens nominations for the people quietly making the town better
Residents have until 5pm on Friday 11 September to nominate local volunteers, students, businesses, public-service workers and community champions for the 2026 Stronger Communities Awards.

Middlesbrough charity challenge invites families to make a splash for local causes
The PFC Trust’s UChangeLives Charity Ice Bucket Challenge returns to Middlesbrough Velodrome on Sunday 6 September, combining fundraising with a family fun day.

Hartlepool Rising Stars competition offers local performers a route onto the FolkFest main stage
Headland FolkFest’s Rising Stars competition returns on 12 September, with solo, duo and group categories and a main-stage festival slot for the winner.

Middlesbrough music project opens autumn sessions for young players, with bursaries available
Bandjam returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall this September, giving 8 to 17-year-olds weekly band tuition, live performance opportunities and free taster sessions for newcomers.

Stockton Fireworks will return to the riverside this November
Stockton’s free fireworks display returns on Sunday 1 November, with the River Tees and new Waterfront park forming the backdrop.

Hopetown opens its railway workshops for a free September heritage weekend
Darlington Locomotive Works and the 1861 Shed will open free of charge on 5 and 6 September, with family activities on Saturday and a deeper engineering focus on Sunday.

Teesside to honour the local volunteers who fought in the Spanish Civil War
A commemorative gathering in Norton this October will mark 90 years since the Spanish Civil War and remember the North East volunteers who joined the International Brigades.

Middlesbrough sets out bold town-centre vision with 2,000 homes and a new theatre
A long-term regeneration strategy for Middlesbrough includes more than 2,000 homes at Middlehaven, a proposed major theatre, new public spaces and plans to make the town centre more attractive to young people.

Redcar Racecourse keeps September raceday family-friendly with free entry for under-18s
Under-18s can attend Redcar’s Wednesday 9 September meeting free with an adult, while advance adult tickets remain available until 6 September.

The volunteers keeping Wynyard Planetarium looking up
Wynyard Planetarium and Observatory is run by volunteers through Teesside Astronomical Science Centre, helping local schools, groups and families get closer to astronomy and space science.

The quiet return on kindness: why helping other people can help us too
Across Teesside, thousands of hours are given freely to community projects every year. Research suggests those acts of help may benefit the people giving them too, although the science is more nuanced than the slogans.

Why Teesside keeps singing together
From Middlesbrough Town Hall to Stockton Globe, community singing is thriving across Teesside. A growing body of research suggests the appeal may be about much more than music.

What Teesside's parks, beaches and river might be doing for our heads
A walk through Albert Park, along Redcar seafront or beside the Tees can feel restorative. Research into green and blue spaces suggests there may be something real behind that feeling.

The underrated joy of making things: why Teesside's craft tables and Fab Labs matter
From a free craft group in Redcar to 3D printers and sewing machines in Hartlepool, Teesside has places where people can make things together. Emerging research suggests that creative activity may support wellbeing too.

Free Tuesday stargazing nights return to Wynyard this September
Wynyard Planetarium and the Jack Youdale Observatory are bringing back free Tuesday evening drop-ins for the 2026/27 stargazing season, with telescopes, friendly advice and no booking required.

International DJ Aline Rocha to perform in Yarm this bank holiday weekend
Following a successful launch event for 18-25s, The Keys in Yarm is preparing for a high-profile set from DJ Aline Rocha before her appearance at Ibiza's Amnesia.

Seven Stockton community partnerships are looking for local people to get involved
Residents across Billingham, Thornaby, Yarm, Norton and Stockton can join one of seven community partnerships working on local priorities including isolation, poverty and neighbourhood activity.

Redcar Running Festival returns with three distances and a nod to the town’s steel history
The 2026 Redcar Running Festival will bring a 3K, Zetland 10K and half marathon to closed roads on 27 September, with a locally inspired anniversary T-shirt for longer-distance runners.

Stockton friends find a new sense of purpose together as North Tees hospital volunteers
Former colleagues Jackie Kendall and Jean Scott have reunited in retirement as volunteer hospital welcomers, and are encouraging others to give volunteering a try.

Eight North Tees staff qualify into new healthcare careers through degree apprenticeships
Four diagnostic radiographers, three physiotherapists and an occupational therapist have completed degree apprenticeships while continuing to work at University Hospital of North Tees.

Tees Valley artist Umar Butt brings a new trilogy about unrest and resilience to Stockton
ARC associate artist Umar Butt will present JOLT!, a three-part theatre work spanning Partition, migration and the recent Middlesbrough riots, at ARC Stockton from 17 to 19 September.

Middlesbrough rave turns tonight’s dancefloor into a fundraiser for Avarni-Mae
ECHOƎS takes over The Middlesbrough Empire tonight with a multi-genre charity night raising money for Avarni-Mae and her family.

Tees Valley mayor set to get new powers over major planning applications
Major housing, commercial and tall-building schemes across the Tees Valley could be called in by the mayor under new planning proposals announced by government.

Tickets go on sale for new North East dance-theatre show heading to Stockton
Billingham International Folklore Festival's new production The Tapestry of Voices will bring dance, live music and storytelling to ARC in Stockton, after securing £30,000 from Arts Council England.

£1.8m apprenticeship pot is already helping Tees Valley firms take on new talent
Eleven major employers have pledged around £1.8 million through a Tees Valley scheme that redirects unused apprenticeship levy funding to local businesses. So far, 89 apprentices have been supported and £600,000 remains available.

Hartlepool pub completes £190k transformation into sports venue
The Greenside in Hartlepool reopened in March after a £190,600 refurbishment transformed the community pub into a Grandstand sports venue with a three-metre screen, upgraded sound and new matchday features.

There is more good happening on Teesside than you think. And noticing it matters.
Bad news is very good at getting our attention. But research suggests the stories and information we repeatedly consume can affect how we feel, and Teesside has far more good happening than the headlines sometimes suggest.

Hartlepool signs recovery-city pledge as £3.2m support centre beds in
Hartlepool Borough Council has joined the Inclusive Recovery Cities movement, building on a new Whitby Street treatment centre and local work to make recovery more visible and supported.

The Redcar tutor helping adults find confidence through learning
Redcar and Cleveland's Adult Learning Service has put the spotlight on lead tutor Simon Bushaway and the everyday work of helping adult learners build confidence and skills.

Youth Guarantee reopens to help Tees Valley 18 to 21-year-olds into work
The Youth Guarantee Trailblazer has reopened for a second year, offering local 18 to 21-year-olds personalised support, training and, where appropriate, paid work experience.

New Asda internship will give Stockton young adults real workplace experience
A supported internship launching at Asda's Portrack Lane store will combine real work experience with daily learning for young adults with an EHCP or SEN Support Plan.

Middlesbrough drop-in supports up to 80 people each week
A weekly Salvation Army drop-in in Middlesbrough is bringing food, clothing, healthcare access, advice and company together under one roof for up to 80 people at a time.

Air Cadets to lead Middlesbrough’s Battle of Britain remembrance service
Air Cadet squadrons from across the area will gather at Middlesbrough Cenotaph on 13 September for the town’s annual Battle of Britain parade and service.

Middlesbrough’s 5K and 10K come together for a new community running weekend
Middlesbrough Runs will bring the Ali Brownlee 5K, Middlesbrough 10K and a family relay together across the weekend of 29 and 30 August.

Two Carmel pupils celebrate GCSE success after serious illness
Carmel College pupils Clara G and Clara C have achieved strong GCSE results after treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and major spinal surgery disrupted their studies.

Redcar learners build on results with trades and careers in sight
Level 2 students at Redcar and Cleveland College are progressing in joinery, plumbing, hairdressing and construction after a celebratory results day.

Stockton supported interns celebrate confidence, skills and a job well done
Young adults with special educational needs have completed workplace internships across Stockton, building experience in catering, museums, retail and other local services.

Hartlepool Sixth Form students celebrate standout 2026 results
Students have secured university places and future careers after strong A Level, technical and T Level outcomes at Hartlepool Sixth Form College.

Middlesbrough College class of 2026 turns results into next steps
Strong vocational, T Level and A Level results are sending Middlesbrough students into university, public service, apprenticeships and further technical training.

One fairytale day down, dinosaurs next for Darlington
Darlington’s free summer programme brought storybook characters to the town centre on 20 August, with a Dinosaur Day still to come on Thursday 27 August.

Hartlepool Carnival opens its 103rd chapter on the Headland
The Mayor took the first waltzer ride as Hartlepool’s community-run carnival began ten days of traditional events, fairground fun and Headland celebrations.

Six new CCTV points strengthen safety at Albert Park
Middlesbrough Council has added cameras at six Albert Park locations and upgraded existing equipment, with the system linked directly to the town’s control room.

The calm voices guiding North Tees families through bereavement
Liz Horsley and Leah Richardson help families navigate certificates, registrations, viewings and practical next steps after a hospital death.

Tide returns to Greatham Marsh after two centuries
A £4.5 million restoration has reconnected Greatham Beck with the Tees Estuary, creating space for saltmarsh, wildlife and natural flood resilience.

Meet Hartlepool’s newly named food-waste fleet
Hartlepool pupils have named the borough’s four food-waste wagons, with the winning designs helping explain how household scraps become biogas and fertiliser.

New OneBeyond store brings fresh investment and jobs to Middleton Grange
Value retailer OneBeyond has opened in the former River Island unit at Middleton Grange, adding jobs and another occupied shop to Hartlepool town centre.

Tees Valley firms urged to make final push for export funding
The Tees Valley Export Fund is offering eligible firms grants of £3,000 to £10,000 before its 31 August deadline, following support for 127 local companies.

Middlesbrough submits UK City of Culture 2029 bid shaped by local voices
More than 2,000 residents helped shape Middlesbrough’s bid for UK City of Culture 2029, a programme linking the town’s industrial story with its present creative life.

Linthorpe buddy benches create a simple place to connect
Rainbow-painted buddy benches near Roman Road and Cambridge Road are giving Linthorpe residents a visible, low-pressure invitation to stop and talk.

£33.3m housing package aims to unlock more than 1,000 Tees Valley homes
A £33.3 million Brownfield Housing Fund package has been approved to unlock 1,085 homes across Tees Valley by paying for difficult site preparation and enabling work.

Darlington's free school uniform shop extends opening hours for summer
Darlington Cares has extended summer hours at its free uniform shop, which has supplied nearly 50,000 items and kept more than 22 tonnes of clothing in use.

Loan Agreement Approved to Support Teesworks Regeneration
A new financial framework to support the ongoing successful regeneration of the Teesworks site has been approved by Tees Valley Combined Authority. Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) Cabinet today (July 31) approved proposals to formalise loan arrangements with South Tees Development Corporation (STDC). The…

Creative Talent, Industrial Strength and Digital Growth: The Investment Vision for Tees Valley
This article was first published in This Is Tees Valley 2026-27 The Tees Valley’s five boroughs have a long history of working together. From the creation of the Tees Valley Joint Strategy Unit and Tees Valley Development Company in 1996 to the establishment of the Tees Valley Combined Authority a decade ago, this…

Study Into Rail Passenger Services In East Cleveland Reveals Findings
A detailed study into providing passenger rail services on a freight line in East Cleveland has revealed its findings. The in-depth study by consultancy firm ARUP has taken a close look at the work required to allow regular passenger services on the route between Saltburn and Boulby to boost connectivity in East…

The Auxiliary Set to Open Its Doors in Middlesbrough After £1.3m Transformation
A major new creative space is set to open its doors, giving artists, musicians and communities a permanent home in the heart of Middlesbrough. The Auxiliary Project Space will officially open on Wednesday, 9 September, marking a major milestone for one of the North East’s leading artist-led organisations. The…

Tees Valley tourism passes £1.5bn as visitor numbers rise
Tees Valley welcomed 21.26 million visitors in 2025, with tourism’s estimated economic impact rising by £141 million to more than £1.5 billion.

The Yellow Rose brings Wembley fever to Roman Road as Middlesbrough dreams of promotion
There are days when Middlesbrough wears its heart on its windows.On Roman Road, The Yellow Rose has been doing exactly that. Ahead of Middlesbrough’s Championship play-off final against Hull City at Wembley today, Saturday 23 May 2026, the pub has been dressed, painted and proudly turned red and white for one of…

Ukrainian engineer rebuilds his career on Teesside after starting again in a new country
Ukrainian telecoms engineer Yurii Machenko has rebuilt his career on Teesside after completing training through DTN Academy and securing work with Stockton-based Commplex Network Services.

Hundreds of young people explore future careers at Riverside Stadium event
More than 250 young people attended a careers event at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium, meeting local employers and exploring routes into engineering, digital, construction, clean energy and more.

Steph McGovern returns to Teesside to launch scholarship for women in engineering
Middlesbrough-born broadcaster Steph McGovern has returned to her Teesside roots to help open doors for the next generation of female engineers. A new scholarship at Teesside University will support first-year female engineering students, aiming to tackle the continued under-representation of women in the sector.…

New research aims to strengthen self-esteem and mental health support for teenagers
One of the strengths of the project is its focus on prevention as much as treatment. A new piece of research led by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is shining a light on a subject many young people quietly struggle with: self-esteem. The project focuses on teenagers who are experiencing low…

A Tuesday Tradition: How Billingham Community Choir Brings People Together
On a Tuesday evening in Billingham, something quietly lovely happens. As the day loosens its grip and coats are hung by the door, voices begin to gather. Not perfect voices. Real ones. Curious ones. The kind that carry the day with them and then gently set it down. This is Billingham Community Choir, and it […]

We Do: How Dan and Charlie Turned Lived Experience into a Community of Hope
We Do was founded by Dan and Charlie with a simple aim: to help people when life becomes challenging. At its core, the We Do project is built on a belief that feels both simple and quietly powerful: when life becomes overwhelming, support should be human, accessible, and free from judgement. Recovery, in this…

£20,000 Boost for Yatton House as Great Ayton Community Hub Expands Its Reach
A familiar building in the heart of Great Ayton is quietly proving just how powerful community spaces can be. The Yatton House Society has been awarded a £20,000 grant, providing a significant boost to its work supporting local residents and keeping an essential community hub alive and active. For a village where…

Tees Valley Housing Partnership Launched to Accelerate Affordable Homes Across the Region
A new regional partnership has been launched with the ambition of transforming how affordable homes are delivered across Tees Valley. The new initiative is bringing together housing associations, local authorities and public bodies under a shared commitment to collaboration rather than competition. The Tees Valley…

New Engine Room Hub Aims to Put Teesside Creative Production on the World Stage
A new chapter has begun for Teesside’s creative economy with the launch of Engine Room, a purpose-built production hub designed to support film, digital and creative businesses to grow, collaborate and export their work far beyond the region. Based in the Tees Valley, Engine Room has been created to strengthen the…

Inside Tees Valley Women’s Centre: A Lifeline of Support in Middlesbrough
Tees Valley Women’s Centre has spent more than four decades supporting women who are navigating some of the most complex challenges life can throw at them. Poverty, domestic abuse, mental ill health, addiction, homelessness, involvement with the criminal justice system. Often not one of these on its own, but…

Over 600 pupils from across Teesside participated in the fifth annual Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Enterprise Challenge
In an incredible display of creativity, passion, and teamwork, over 600 pupils from across Teesside participated in the fifth annual SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Enterprise Challenge, hosted by Teesworks. This exciting event, held in the heart of our vibrant industrial region, brought together…

Projects, Prizes And Progress: A Review Of 2025 At The TVCA
From transport milestones to creative breakthroughs and groundbreaking technology, 2025 has been a year of progress right across Tees Valley. Rail upgrades are transforming our stations, young people are finding life‑changing opportunities and our artists are gaining national attention. We’ve made bold investments…

Oh, Yes He Is! Trailblazer Helps Ceinen Shine As Young People Spread Their Wings Into Employment
From being a shy young man when he first started college, Ceinen Stark is proof of how a new jobs initiative is helping young people to shine on Teesside. Ceinen, 20, is one of eight trainees who have been given paid work opportunities by charitable leisure trust, Tees Active, as part of the Tees Valley […]

New Chair of Tees Valley Business Board Sets Out Ambitious Vision For Future
The new leader of Tees Valley Business Board has set out his vision for a fresh, collaborative approach for the organisation to ensure business voices shape plans for the region’s future and drive economic growth. Matthew Ord has been formally appointed as permanent Chair of the Tees Valley Business Board by Tees…

‘They’ve Been Outstanding’: Layla And Josh Hit Ground Running At Growing Firm Axiom With Trailblazer Help
Two young Teessiders have hit the ground running at a growing Middlesbrough events company after a new programme opened the door to the pair starting work. Middlesbrough’s Layla Agiadis and Joshua Hugill both clinched positions at successful firm Axiom Events after support from the Tees Valley Youth Guarantee…

Major Speakers Confirmed For Return Of Popular Showcase As Businesses Urged To Sign Up
A date has been set for a popular annual showcase to help businesses tap into support and benefit from emerging major projects across our region. The annual Tees Valley Supply Chain Showcase will take place at Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield on 12 February. Those attending will be able to hear from leaders on projects…

Bookings Open For Businesses to Back Our Armed Forces at Airport Event
Tees Valley employers were invited to sign the Armed Forces Covenant at a February 2026 event at Teesside Airport, turning public support into workplace pledges.

New Project to Help Our Tourism Businesses Shine Online
A project offering expert guidance to help our small businesses shine online has been launched to take Tees Valley firms to the next level. The new Digital Marketing Transformer will help small visitor economy businesses boost their online presence, attract more visitors and improve sales. With grants of between…

UK-First Digital Project Sees Success in Slashing Delays on Region’s Roads
A UK-first digital transport pilot has successfully slashed delays on some the Tees Valley’s most traffic-hit roads. The Tees Valley Traffic Digital Twin Project has covered a range of routes to offer the country’s first region-wide, automated, real-time, AI-driven model for traffic management. And the results have…

Start-Ups Get Focussed Advice as Popular Lab Programme Builds Momentum
A wide range of start-up owners have started a popular programme to take their budding ventures to the next level. From an experienced chemist taking on the offshore paint industry, to a Darlington mum-of-four vying to break into new markets with her ball projecting machine, the Tees Valley Labs Stable programme…

New Support Launched for Small Businesses to Boost Christmas Footfall
High-street shops and independent businesses across Tees Valley can now get targeted support to boost trading in the vital Christmas period. The festive season is crucial for retailers and the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority have now launched a new support package to help businesses drive sales. Free…

New Northern Cluster Aiming To Shape UK’s Bio-Industrial Future
Tees Valley Combined Authority, York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the University of York, Teesside University and CPI have announced a partnership which aims to create around 5,000 skilled jobs across the two regions. By harnessing their combined strengths, the authorities have developed a bio-industrial…

New ‘Tees Pass’ Provides Vital Free Bus Travel for Care Leavers
A new pass to ensure care leavers across our region can access free bus travel is now ready for launch. The Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority agreed to fund free bus travel passes for those leaving the care system earlier this year. Tees Pass will be operational from Monday, 17 November, allowing…

Chutney Maker Preserves His Firm’s Future Thanks to TVCA Backing
A pickle producer has seen a big boost in sales with the help of business support and training backed by the Combined Authority. Andrew Calder created Calder’s Kitchen with his family in 2015 after uncovering his Grandad Charlie’s original piccalilli recipe and selling a few jars to friends and colleagues. A decade…

Second Round of Export Programme Launched to Help Even More of Our Firms Go Global
A popular scheme helping more of our region’s firms sell to the world has been extended with an extra half a million pounds now available to more business. A second round of the Tees Valley Export Fund has been launched by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority – offering a fresh £500,000 funding pot […]

Jobs And Investment As Second Aircraft Paint Facility Takes Off At Teesside
A second multi-million pound aircraft painting facility has opened at Teesside Airport as part of a rapid expansion by a leading aviation firm, creating up to 40 new jobs. Airbourne Colours’ second Teesside facility is now operational after construction of the 27,000sq ft unit was completed on schedule this month.…

Teesside Airport Forges New Link To Guernsey For Summer 2026
Teesside Airport will expand its Channel Islands connections next summer with a new link to Guernsey. Operated by Premier Holidays, the service will run from May until September, giving Teesside passengers even more choice for their summer getaways. The new route builds on the ongoing success of Teesside’s popular…

Endolys Selects Tees Valley to Develop UK’s First Large-Scale Plastic Film Recycling Plant
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has welcomed a plan to develop the UK’s first large scale plastic film recycling facility at the former Cleveland Bridge site, in Darlington. Chemical recycling company Endolys will create up to 120 jobs with the installation of pyrolysis oil production units at Darlington’s former…

Young People Fire Up Their Futures With Trailblazer Training
Young Teessiders have told how taking part in a fire training programme has helped boost their confidence and their job prospects. The group of 18 to 21-year-olds took part in a week-long course which included training on hose handling, problem solving, working at height, fire behaviour, and first aid. The training…

Deal Agreed With Global Aviation Leader To Support Multi-Million Pound Airport Expansion
A deal to support multi-million-pound expansion of aircraft maintenance operations at Teesside International Airport – creating hundreds of highly skilled jobs – has today been agreed. Global aviation leader Willis Aviation Services Limited (WASL) has signed a 250-year lease agreement for 50 acres of airport land…

Future of Global Trade Showcased at Teesside Digital Trade Testbed
Policymakers, industry leaders, and technology innovators have been able to witness first-hand how a state-of-the-art Tees Valley facility is set to transform global trade. Teesside University, in collaboration with Tees Valley Combined Authority, Teesside Freeport, ICC United Kingdom (ICC UK) and the International…

Willis Lease Finance Corporation Expands With Second Hangar Launched At Teesside Airport
Willis Lease Finance Corporation, the leading lessor of commercial aircraft engines and global provider of aviation services, has officially opened its second hangar at Teesside International Airport as part of an expansion of its operations. This hangar was initially announced in April 2025 as WLFC subsidiary,…

Net Zero Scholarship Underway as First Trainees Begin Programme
A landmark £1million training initiative to power our region’s transition to the industries of the future has officially begun, with the first cohort of trainees starting their journey through the Tees Valley Net Zero Industry Scholarship. The Scholarship will train 141 individuals in high-demand roles including…
New Mobile Coverage Map Gives Public and Firms Insight into Best Operators on Their Street
A detailed interactive map to track the signal and performance of mobile coverage has been launched to allow thousands of people to know the best performing operators on their street. Surveys over the nine months have seen bin wagons fitted with devices used to track mobile coverage strength to create one of the…

Ten Years On: From Closure To Comeback – Teesside’s Steelworks Revival As Teesworks
Leaders at one of the country’s fastest developing industrial zones have marked the huge progress made ten years on from one of the darkest days in Teesside’s industrial history. Ten years ago, the Redcar Steelworks closed its gates for the final time following the liquidation of SSI, then-owner of the steelworks…

Business Leaders Invited to Shape Tees Valley’s 10-Year Growth Plan
Business leaders are being encouraged to help shape the future direction of the Tees Valley economy at a series of engagement events. An initial series of engagement events are being held next week to help shape the region’s Local Growth Plan (LGP) – a 10-year strategic framework to drive economic growth. Tees…

Eston Events Centre: A Thriving Hub of Entertainment in Middlesbrough
We run a range of events that cater for wide audiences and in terms of our venue & it’s recent rennovation – the place looks like new! We’re really excited see everyone at one our upcoming events! Simon Smith – Eston Events Centre Manager Tucked away on Fabian Road in Middlesbrough, Eston Events Centre has […]

Teesside University & Lexxic Champion Neurodiversity During Celebration Week
“I founded Neurodiversity Celebration Week in 2018 because I wanted to change the way learning differences are perceived. As a teenager who is autistic and has ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, my experience has been that people often focus on the challenges of neurological diversity. I wanted to change the narrative…
BusinessBoost Your Business: The Essential Role of Workplace Wellbeing
Businesses small and large all over Teesside are getting in touch with Teesside Mind’s workplace wellbeing team to get support for their employees! In today’s fast-paced work environment, prioritising mental health isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. Teesside Mind offers tailored services to help businesses foster a healthier, more productive workforce. Businesses small and large all […]

Top 7 Must-Attend Events in Stockton-on-Tees 2025: Festivals, Celebrations, and More
Stockton-on-Tees is gearing up for a spectacular 2025, brimming with events that promise to entertain, educate, and inspire. Here’s a curated list of seven must-attend happenings in the borough this year: 1. S&DR200 Festival Dates: March to NovemberLocations: Stockton, Darlington, and County Durham Celebrating the…

Gresham Regeneration Plans Move Forward After Multi-Million Pound Injection
Plans for transformational scheme to regenerate a key site in the heart of Middlesbrough from next spring have moved forward after new funding was approved. Middlesbrough Development Corporation has agreed to provide a further £7million to breathe life into Gresham with the development of a new hotel alongside…

Ten-Year Vision To Create 16,000 Jobs and Add £1.5bn To Our Region’s Economy Is On Track
A ten-year vision to transform our region with thousands of new long-term jobs and more investment is on track. Figures show 10,671 direct jobs and more than £900million have been added to the Tees Valley economy since the Investment Plan was agreed and launched by the Combined Authority in 2019. The original…

New Route Launched From Eaglescliffe as Access Project Progress Steams Ahead
A new hourly service for Eaglescliffe Railway Station is to launch on Sunday (15 December) as progress to overhaul access at the site continues apace. The station will see the TransPennine Express service between Manchester Airport and Redcar stop in both directions for the first time. It comes as efforts to…

Tees Valley Apprenticeships Supercharged With Major New Support Service
Businesses across Tees Valley are to benefit from the launch of a new programme set to super-charge apprenticeships across the region. Tees Valley’s Apprenticeship Levy Matching Service will use unspent apprenticeship levy funding from major employers to create more apprenticeship opportunities and develop the…

Leading Lights Offer Students a Taste of Their TV and Film Careers
Make-up artists and filmmakers have offered a glimpse of their careers to inspire our next generation of talent. Students from Hurworth Academy, Stockton Riverside College and Prior Pursglove College, Stockton, all got a taste of opportunities available in the TV and Screen industry in our region with the help of…

Region’s Projects Shine at Culture Awards with Healthy Haul of Silverware
A string of our region’s most exciting cultural projects and events have picked up a healthy haul of silverware at a prestigious awards ceremony. The North East Culture Awards saw the trio of Middlesbrough Art Week, Hopetown, in Darlington, and the Black Creatives and Arts Network all pick up top prizes at its…

Step Forward on Green Power in Region as Deal Signed With Major Energy Firm
A new landmark agreement has been signed with major energy firm SSE to cement efforts to generate green energy in our region. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will see the Combined Authority and SSE join forces to bring forward and deliver energy projects. Home to a rising green energy sector through projects…

£5m Trailblazer To Support Young People Across Tees Valley Into Work And Training
Tees Valley was selected for a Youth Guarantee Trailblazer worth up to £5 million, testing better routes into work and training for 18 to 21-year-olds.

Huge Operation to Record Journeys For Major Projects Gets Underway
A major operation to record traffic flows and passenger numbers is underway to shape how transport projects are developed. Survey equipment is being installed on roads, in car parks, and at key junctions to assess activity across our region’s travel network from December to February. Counts will also take place on…

Teessider Lee Sees His Company Go From Strength to Strength With Grant and Business Backing
A Teesside business owner whose company has supercharged a range of our region’s own start-ups has revealed how business and grant support have given him a vital boost. Redcar’s Lee Walker has seen his business, Walker Business Transformation, go from strength to strength with the help of grants via the UK Shared…

Burtree Garden Village Unveils Arboretum Plans to Enhance Community Green Spaces
Plans for Burtree Garden Village included an arboretum, foraging trail and extensive shared green space alongside a first phase of 750 homes.
NatureTees Valley’s Hidden Gems: Uncovering Lesser-Known Attractions
Take a minute to visit a stunning gem on your own doorstep! Often celebrated for its industrial heritage and vibrant urban centres, our region harbours a collection of lesser-known attractions that offer tranquillity and natural beauty. For those seeking to venture off the beaten path, destinations such as True Lover’s Walk in Yarm, Kildale Falls […]

Festival of Thrift shares joys of sustainable living as thousands flock to Billingham event
The Festival of Thrift drew thousands to Billingham in the Tees Valley this weekend, celebrating sustainable living with a packed programme of creative activities, workshops, and entertainment. The event took over Billingham town centre and the adjoining John Whitehead Park, showcasing the festival’s signature…
CommunityCommunity Celebrates at Middleton Hall Village Show: Live Music, Medieval Battles, and Family Fun
It was a day full of fun and games, arts and crafts, giant onions, owls, music and medieval battles at the Middleton Hall Retirement Village Show. Friends, families and visitors from the local area joined residents from the village’s care services and independently owned retirement properties at the event on Saturday 14 September. The day […]

International Students broaden career horizons with placements on Tees Valley regeneration projects
Two construction students from Nigeria have broadened their career ambitions after completing summer work placements on key regeneration projects in the Tees Valley. Seun Olowomuwagun and Elijah Olugbode moved to the North East to study MSc Masters Project Management at Teesside University, having previously…
CharityMiddleton Hall’s Open Gardens Event Raises Nearly £800 for Charity
The tranquil grounds of Middleton Hall Retirement Village in Middleton St George became a vibrant hub of activity last month as the village opened its gardens to the public in support of charity. Hosted as part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS), the annual open day saw garden enthusiasts from across the region flock to […]
ArtTextile Design Graduates Selected for Prestigious Green Grads Platform
Two talented textile design graduates from The Northern School of Art have been chosen to represent the future of sustainable design on the prestigious Green Grads platform. Jaime Curá and Laura Wigham, both 2024 graduates from the BA (Hons) Textiles and Surface Design course, will showcase their environmentally conscious creations at the Great Northern Contemporary […]

Gill to Run the Great North Run in Support of Teesside Mind
Gill Campbell, a dedicated primary school teacher, is taking on a tremendous challenge this year. On 8th September, she will be lacing up her trainers to participate in the renowned Great North Run, all for an extraordinary cause close to her heart – Teesside Mind. Teesside Mind is an invaluable charity that…

Exploring Teesside’s Industrial Past Through Theatre: Alan Spence’s ‘Nowt Like This in America
On Sunday 1st September, from 5pm, Teesside playwright Alan Spence will be showcasing his latest work, Nowt Like This in America, a play that performs a deep dive into the heart of Teesside’s industrial past. The event, part of a Book Club series created by Rosie Devine, is a free, community-focused session that…

Sparkling Performances Light Up Billingham’s Theatre Upstairs
Billingham’s Theatre Upstairs hosted Starlight Nights, a vintage variety show bringing local singers, magic and Broadway favourites together in support of Autism Matters.

Middlesbrough Mela: Transforming a Festival into a Platform for Healing and Unity
The Middlesbrough Mela, long celebrated as a vibrant showcase of arts, culture, and heritage, has undergone a profound transformation. What began as a cultural festival has now emerged as a crucial platform for healing, reconciliation, and community building. This evolution is the result of dedicated efforts by the…

Alan Spence Discusses His Play “The Boro’s 37 Minutes” and a Lifetime of Football Memories
The Dorman Museum in Middlesbrough came alive with the passionate voices of football fans who gathered for an intimate talk with local playwright Alan Spence. The event was part of the museum’s ‘BORO – A Shirt History‘ exhibit, which chronicles the rich legacy of Middlesbrough FC through its iconic shirts. Alan…

BORO! A Shirt History!
Middlesbrough’s Dorman Museum is offering a unique experience for football fans and history enthusiasts alike with its latest exhibition. This exclusive display delves into the rich history of Middlesbrough Football Club (MFC) by showcasing over 100 of the club’s football shirts, spanning from its early days in…

Indie Rock Sensation The Rifles Set to Electrify Stockton’s KU in September
Iconic indie rockers, The Rifles, are making their long-awaited return to Teesside this September, performing at KU in Stockton. This marks their first appearance in the region in nearly two decades and is part of the tour supporting their latest album, Love Your Neighbour, released in April. The show continues…

FunnyBoyz Opens Its Doors in Middlesbrough: A Night of Celebration and Community
The grand opening of the new LGBTQ+ and Drag Performance venue marked a vibrant beginning for a new chapter in Middlesbrough’s nightlife. A vibrant new venue dedicated to celebrating diversity, inclusivity, and the art of drag is set to open in the heart of Middlesbrough. FunnyBoyz, renowned for its commitment to…

A Way Out Expands Its Reach with New Middlesbrough Base
Teesside charity A Way Out opened a base on Wilson Street in Middlesbrough and received a regional first for the quality of its trauma-informed work.

Hope Netball Club’s First 5K Fun Run a Huge Success in Support of Teesside Mind
On Saturday, 18th August 2024, Hope Netball Club held its inaugural 5K Fun Run in Redcar, drawing an incredible turnout in support of Teesside Mind. The event, organised by Baker Corbyn and Gina Briggs, was a remarkable success, bringing the community together to raise awareness and funds for mental health services…

Dog Days Delight: Redcar and Cleveland’s Journey to Becoming the North-East’s Top Dog-Friendly Destination
Redcar and Cleveland are barking up the right tree with their mission to become the most dog-friendly district in the North-East. With an increasing number of cafes, restaurants, and even a cinema rolling out the red carpet for our four-legged friends, it’s clear that dogs are more than just pets—they’re VIPs (Very…

Cheer Starz Academy Enriches Summer for SEND Children and Families in Middlesbrough
Cheer Starz in Coulby Newham gave children with special educational needs and disabilities an inclusive summer programme through Middlesbrough’s Bring it on Boro scheme.
CharityJoin Teesside Mind’s Big Pub Quiz: A Fun Way to Support Mental Health
Pubs across Teesside are invited to take part in a fantastic opportunity to support mental health in their community by hosting Teesside Mind’s Big Pub Quiz. This event is not only a great way to bring people together for a night of fun and trivia, but it also plays a vital role in raising awareness […]

My Boro, My Shirt: Celebrating Diversity and Unity in Middlesbrough Through Football
Middlesbrough Football Club’s role as a unifying force for good in the community has been brought to life in a unique and heartfelt project. Titled “My Boro, My Shirt,” the initiative tells the diverse stories of the club’s fans, both from Teesside and beyond, showcasing how supporters have made football a…
CommunityMiddlesbrough Unites: Community Rallies to Restore Town After Unrest
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke has praised the town’s resilient spirit after hundreds of residents united to clean up the town following a night of widespread disorder. The clean-up effort saw a large number of volunteers converging at the town’s Cenotaph before 8am, ready to roll up their sleeves and restore the town centre to its […]

Free Family Fun Awaits at Hemlington’s Exciting New Venue
Hemlington’s 2024 Family Fun Day moved to Viewley Hill Shopping Centre with free sport, circus skills, rides and activities supporting local businesses.

Set Sail for Adventure: Pirate Takeover Day and More at Middlesbrough Museums’ Summer Programme
The annual Pirate Takeover Day at Captain Cook Birthplace Museum is back, promising an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages. On Saturday, 10th August, the museum will transform into a swashbuckling paradise, filled with costumed pirates parading both inside the museum and throughout its scenic grounds.…

CF Fertilisers and Teesside Mind: Cultivating Community Together at Lothian Road
Every bit of help and every penny, goes a long way in making our community stronger and healthier. In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, CF Fertilisers has recently dedicated time and resources to support Teesside Mind, Teesside’s leading mental health charity this is committed to improving…
CommunityBold new work by the theatre-makers of the future at Newcastle’s Northern Stage
An exciting opportunity to see the work of the theatre-makers of the future is heading to Northern Stage in Newcastle. Bold new work created by The Northern School of Art’s MA Directing & Theatre Making students is being presented on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 June as part of ‘Collage’. Different productions and a…

Showcase of creative work unveiled at The Northern School of Art
Creative students and their friends and families celebrated in style as the end of year Summer Show opened at The Northern School of Art’s further education campus in Middlesbrough. Almost 1500 guests were welcomed to the Newport Road building for the launch of the showcase of work by the talented leavers at the…

Foundation Art Prize offering £250 prize for young creatives launched
A competition to celebrate the talents of young creatives has been launched by The Northern School of Art. The Foundation Art Prize is inviting entries in all types of media from 16–18-year-old creatives working in any discipline living in the North East and Yorkshire and Humber regions. Overseen by the UAL…
Local CouncilsWhat a night! Emotional night as our community heroes receive award
HEROES who work tirelessly to for their communities right across the borough have received recognition awards from the Mayor in a special ceremony. A total of 19 individuals and groups received recognition at the annual Mayor’s Community Achievement Awards held at the Civic Centre in Redcar at a packed event last night, Wednesday 27 March. […]

Elite cycling classic returns with fun events for all the family
MORE details about one of the region’s most exiting elite cycling events – the East Cleveland Classic – have been released, and there’s fun for all the family. The free event on Sunday 14 April attracts elite level cyclists but there’s also a packed programme of activities and entertainment including street…
Embrace the Beat: Discover the Transformative Power of Dance at S&N Dance Centre
The weekly Vibe class at S&N Dance Centre in Billingham offered an informal, follow-the-teacher session for different ages and abilities.

Hartlepool Civic Honours Presented at Ceremony
Historic titles have been granted to individuals and organisations who have made a significant and sustained contribution to the Borough of Hartlepool. Boxer Savannah Marshall, George Colley, Peter Bowes JP DL and the Hartlepool Coastguard Rescue Team have been awarded the Freedom of the Borough. Carl Richardson…

International horror film conference heading to Hartlepool campus of The Northern School of Art
An international conference exploring how mental health issues are represented in horror films is being hosted by staff, postgraduate and final year undergraduate students from the Stage and Screen faculty of The Northern School of Art. ‘Nightmare 24’, which takes place at the School’s university-level campus in…

Major overhaul gives Acklam Library 21st century IT boost
A major overhaul to update digital facilities at a key Middlesbrough community hub and library has been unveiled this week. Acklam Community Hub and Library’s popular ICT suite has been completely refurbished as part of a £270,000 programme of new investment. The new suite was officially opened at a special…

Civic Award Winners are Celebrated
Outstanding people from the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees were honoured by the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Jim Beall, for their inspirational work and selfless acts. The Mayor’s Civic Awards shine a light on the Borough’s community champions, whose kindness and empathy inspire others and make Stockton-on-Tees a great…
Local CouncilsJohn Gardner Takes Office as the New Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees: A Look into His Background and Priorities
Councillor John Gardner is the new Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees. He was officially installed at the Council’s Annual Meeting today (Wednesday, 3 April), replacing Councillor Jim Beall at the end of his mayoral year. Born in the Borough, Councillor Gardner lived in Fairfield and attended Fairfield Junior School and Grangefield Grammar School for Boys. Councillor Gardner […]

Reflections on Visibility: A Personal Journey Through Marginalisation and Advocacy
What do the words “being visible” mean to you? Please feel free to take a moment to consider this as I imagine there may be a range of answers that would all be correct, given the subjective nature of the question. When the question is put to marginalised communities within the wider demographic, we may […]

Discovering the Untold Narratives: Celebrating the Extraordinary Women of Middlesbrough
The lives of the extraordinary women who shaped early Middlesbrough have been given the spotlight as part of a special celebration. The voices of those women who led tough, ‘ordinary’ lives – yet quietly became heroines in their own family or community – have remained relatively unheard. Now, a new project has…

Unlocking Darlington’s Business Potential: Exclusive Property Tours with Carver Commercial
North East entrepreneurs, commercial investors and business agents are invited to take part in a musical tour to discover the wealth of opportunities available to people looking to open or expand their business in Darlington. Calling all North East visionaries, investors, and commercial pioneers! Brace yourselves…

Revolutionary £160 Million Innovation Hub Set to Ignite Region’s Digital and Creative Scene
A new scheme to unleash the strengths of digital and creative companies in the Tees Valley has been confirmed – bringing with it £160million of Government cash. The Government today (6 March) announced the Tees Valley Investment Zone. This aims to increase inward investment, productivity and jobs in the region’s…
Local CouncilsMayor of Stockton-on-Tees marks start of work on bold new extension at Preston Park
Work has officially started on a new, modern extension to Preston Park Museum which will create a space for nationally significant touring exhibitions and loans. The Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees unveiled a plaque to commemorate construction work beginning on the 500msq building today (12 FEB) before putting the first spade in the ground.The Mayor was joined […]

New South Gare collaboration brings help to local seal population
PD Ports, the Tees and Hartlepool port authority, have signed over a 30-year lease for the old lifeboat station at South Gare, Redcar, to Teesmouth Seal Conservation Trust (TSCT), a brand-new charity set up to help with the rescue and rehabilitation of seals around the Tees Estuary. The lease agreed with PD Ports –…

Rob returns to Middlesbrough roots to share F1 career insight
A leading name in the world of Formula 1 motor racing is returning to his Middlesbrough roots to share insight into his fast-paced career. Former F1 race engineer Rob Smedley has 30 years of experience in the world of motor racing, having worked with multiple F1 teams including Jordan, Ferrari and Williams. After…

Events Give New Opportunities For Cultural Leaders In Tees Valley
Training to develop leadership in the arts and culture has been unveiled as part of a new package of events for Spring and Summer 2024. Clore Leadership, the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority have announced a series of new events in an ongoing programme of leadership development opportunities for the…

New Funding To Boost Region’s Artistic Talent
A new fund to champion the region’s creatives has been launched, with five artists or collectives set to secure £30,000 each to accelerate their careers. Tees Valley Artists of the Year 2024 & 2025 will see talent from creative backgrounds including dance, theatre, visual arts, music, literature and film selected…

Darlington Earns Prestigious Purple Flag for Exceptional Nightlife Experience in 2024
For the fifth year in a row, Darlington has been flagged as a great place for a night out. Following a thorough re-assessment process, the town has been awarded the prestigious purple flag award in recognition of its safe, welcoming, and diverse night-time economy. The accreditation, which is similar to the Blue…

Dundas indoor market hits the year running!
Middlesbrough’s home to independent retailers has hit the year running with a new look and two new traders. ASB Football Shirts and Ezzy May’s Little Boutique have joined the unique collection of businesses at the historic Dundas Indoor Market where you can buy everything from your Sunday beef to Himalayan…

Students share behind the scenes experiences of working on a major new feature film
Students and graduates from The Northern School of Art have been sharing their experiences of working behind the scenes on a major new feature film shot in the North-East last year. Jackdaw, a new action thriller directed by Jamie Childs, who has worked on the likes of ‘The Sandman’ and ‘His Dark Materials’, and…

Top Industry Award For Teesside Stainless Steel Specialist
Teesside stainless steel specialist Paralloy has won a top UK industry award – its fourth in just over six months. The company was recognised for its Business Growth and Strategy at the prestigious Make UK Manufacturing Awards during a ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. Paralloy Ltd had already been named…

More Than 25 Transport Projects Given Green Light In New £1Billion Package
Leaders have agreed a huge package of vital transport projects to transform the Tees Valley as part of a funding boost totalling almost £1billion. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Cabinet Members of the Tees Valley Combined Authority backed the vision in a unanimous vote at Friday morning’s Cabinet meeting. The…

Supporting students get ‘Career Ready’ in Tees Valley
Students in Tees Valley are set to benefit from employability support and opportunities thanks to the expansion of the partnership between bp and Career Ready, a leading social mobility charity in the UK. The partnership, which launched on 31 January, will see up to 40 young people, aged 16-18, at six schools and…

Hartlepool Council: Have you joined the big conversation?
Time is running out for people to take part in a major public consultation and engagement exercise run by Hartlepool Borough Council. The Big Conversation – Your Say, Our Future will finish at the end of the month – ten weeks after being launched. The Council is keen to find out what residents and its […]

Redcar & Cleveland Council: PD Ports Investing in a new zero future.
PD Ports are the largest private sector employer on Teesside; below, CEO Frans Calje talks about progress made in 2023 and looks ahead to a busy and productive 2024 for the organisation. I’m writing to share the key developments we’ve made in the last year at PD Ports and to update you on our plans […]

Redcar & Cleveland Council: Boom attracts another new business to the Wilton centre!
The Wilton Centre’s prominent position at the heart of Teesside’s industrial revival has attracted another new occupier. Survey 3Di NE Ltd – a subsidiary of Aberdeen-based Survey 3Di Ltd – has opened an office to look for opportunities in both the area and with some of its neighbours. More than 60 companies are…
HistoryStockton Council: Commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day
Holocaust Memorial Day will this year be marked with a poignant event in Stockton Central Library, where the Borough’s residents can reflect and remember. The international event takes place each year on 27 January to remember the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, alongside the millions of other people killed under Nazi persecution and […]

Darlington Council: Renowned science exhibition coming to Darlington
The renowned STEMFest science exhibition for children and young people is coming to Darlington in March 2024. Hosted together with the North East STEM Hub, which is delivered by RTC North, the two-day event aims to inspire and encourage children, between the ages of 10 and 13, to consider a future career in…
ArtStockton Council: Yarm Town Hall Heritage Centre officially opens launching new exhibition and art installation
Yarm Town Hall Heritage Centre has officially opened its doors, showcasing ‘Island in a River’, the new permanent exhibition inspired by the history of one of the most outstanding scenic towns in the region. The exhibition has been created by artist Matthew Rosier for the newly refurbished Grade II listed town hall and will celebrate […]
Redcar & ClevelandRedcar and Cleveland to host cycling’s East Cleveland Classic
Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and British Cycling have today announced that a new elite level cycling event, the East Cleveland Classic, will take place in the borough on Sunday 14 April this year. The challenging road race route builds upon the circuit used for the 2023 National Championship Road Race and has been modified and […]
HeritageStockton Council: ‘Dragon Fort’ feature completes impressive upgrades to Romano Park in Ingleby Barwick
Improvement works to Romano Park in Ingleby Barwick have been completed, including a revamped play area with a unique, ‘dragon fort’ feature, which is the first of its kind. The bespoke play equipment includes the unique dragon fort and climbing ‘bloqx’ that were developed with input from local schoolchildren and members of the public. Young […]

Harmony in Norton: Celebrating the Spirit of Giving at Mind Charity Shop
In the heart of Norton the Mind Charity Shop is a beacon of happiness and community. Behind its doors lies not just a trove of preloved and new items, but a haven of compassion and community spirit fostered by a remarkable group of volunteers and the fabulous duo steering the ship, Chris and Mandy. Celebrating […]

Paddles at the Ready: Tees Valley Dragons Ignite Community Spirit on River Tees
In the heart of Tees Valley, where the river Tees meanders gracefully through our wonderful region, a dedicated community of dragon boat enthusiasts has found its haven. The Tees Valley Dragons Dragonboat Club – Powerhouse, whose home is at the River Tees Watersports Centre, is more than just a hub for waterborne…

Redcar & Cleveland Council: terms agreed to secure site for £70M Coatham arena project
Redcar and Cleveland Council agreed terms for a lease option on the former Coatham Bowl site, allowing a privately funded 5,000-capacity arena proposal to progress.

Darlington Council: Free social media workshop
Clubs, community groups and local businesses, with sustainability at their heart are being encouraged to take a leap of faith and sign up for a free social media workshop on Thursday 29 February, Set to take place at the Dolphin Centre from 6-8pm, the two-hour session will be delivered by Kerry Metcalfe owner and…

Middlesbrough FC’s RiverSideBySide Initiative Champions Equality and Inclusion
In a commendable stride towards fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion, Middlesbrough Football Club continues to make waves with its RiverSideBySide campaign. Established in 2017, this initiative stands as a testament to the club’s commitment to creating a more welcoming environment for supporters, staff, and…
Local CouncilsStockton Council: Time capsule buried in newly improved Tennant Square in Stockton
Young people and the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees have marked an exciting heritage milestone in the Town Centre’s transformation by burying a time capsule at the newly completed Tennant Square. The time capsule was presented to the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Jim Beall at a ceremony on Tuesday (5 DEC) at the north end of the […]

Middlesbrough Council: Make your voice heard on budget proposals online or at in-person events
Members of the public can have their say on Middlesbrough Council’s budget proposals for 2024-25. Their views will form part of a consultation involving a range of stakeholders, before further consideration by the Council’s Executive and a final decision by full Council. Residents can take part at special events in…
PolicingCLEVELAND PCC gives extra cash to charities to fund counselling services
Charities in Cleveland are getting extra cash to cope with the rising demand for counselling services following sexual abuse and violence, thanks to Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) as given £92,092 to EVA Women’s Aid and Arch Teesside. This one-off grant from NHS England […]
PolicingExtra £1m to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour in vulnerable neighbourhoods
PCC welcomes £1m Home Office funding as part of Safer Streets 5 Some of Cleveland’s most vulnerable neighbourhoods will share in almost £1m of Government grants for measures to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour. Cleveland Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has been allocated £999,999.84, as part of the Home Office’s £43m Safer […]

Darlington Council: Dolphin Centre pool re-opening date confirmed
Darlington confirmed that the Dolphin Centre’s main pool would reopen on 26 January 2024 after essential work, while repairs continued elsewhere in the pool complex.

Planting Seeds of Change: Ruth Watson’s Ecologico Journey
On a gloomy afternoon, the small cafe at Preston Park buzzes with the usual chatter and clinks of coffee cups. Among the patrons is Ruth Watson, the vibrant 36-year-old founder of Ecologico. As raindrops gently patter against the window panes, Ruth, with her infectious enthusiasm, unravels the tale of her social…

Darlington Council: Search is on for dogs with star quality
Do you think you dog has star quality? Does your four-legged friend adore the camera? Then we want to hear from you. We’re on the hunt for some handsome hounds and pretty pooches to feature in a special video we’re planning as part of our ongoing Bag It Bin It campaign to tackle dog fouling. […]

Darlington Council: Meet the Youth MP candidates
Five young people are campaigning to Darlington’s next Member of Youth Parliament. Between now and Friday 1 March, the candidates will be campaigning to gain the votes of young people in Darlington. They will each have three main topics which they are campaigning for. Once elected, this young person will represent…

Darlington Council: Popular jobs fair returns in February
Around 100 exhibitors are expected to join us at our hugely popular Darlington Jobs Fair on 8 February 2024 at the Dolphin Centre. The free event coincides with National Apprenticeship Week and has opportunities for people of all ages, interests and backgrounds, including people who are seeking employment, those…
Local CouncilsMiddlesbrough Council: Mayor’s praise for food campaign as new distribution centre opens
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke has praised the impact of FareShare North East after the food charity opened a new distribution centre in the town. The charity works with supermarkets and the wider food industry to get perfectly good to eat surplus food to local organisations. Food is distributed each week from the Tees Food Hub […]

Development Corporation Completes Middleton Grange Takeover
Hartlepool Development Corporation has completed a deal to take control of Middleton Grange Shopping Centre. The Development Corporation has successfully concluded negotiations to buy the long lease for the popular centre – which is home to major retailers including Primark and Boots. The agreement will support…
ConnectionRedcar & Cleveland Council: Defibrillator installed at the Regent in memory of a community role model
In memory of her late husband Steve, Karen Davies, from Redcar, began her charitable mission to install as many defibrillators as possible across Redcar and Cleveland. The latest defibrillator donated as part of her charity was installed outside The Regent Cinema. In January 2022, after Steve’s sudden death at 65 caused by a cardiac arrest […]

Stockton Council: 750 helped into employment since last year as Employment and Training Hub goes from “strength to strength”
More than 750 people have now secured jobs with help from the “thriving” Stockton-on-Tees Employment and Training Hub, figures have revealed. The hub has also had thousands more sign-up and visit events to help find their dream career since it opened in Wellington Square last year. And with a range of facilities…

Stockton Council: Community voices called upon to help shape Council services
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council will put communities “at the heart of everything” with the creation of a new board to help shape services it delivers. The ‘Making It Real Board’ will be made up of people with lived experience who have, or will, access Council adults and health services. And the personal knowledge…

Darlington Confirmed as Second HQ For Department For Business and Trade
Darlington Economic Campus has been confirmed as the second headquarters for the Department for Business and Trade – further establishing the town as major location for UK Government. The announcement by the Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch will bring additional high quality civil service…

New SeAH Wind Academy Set For Launch as Progress at South Bank Site Continues
A six-month development programme to train and develop future welders for the vast £450million SeAH Wind facility is set for launch. The SeAH Wind Academy will see 30 people put through a 24-week training and development programme with the help of the Tees Valley Combined Authority and its Adult Education Budget.…

Grant Bids Open For Four Events to Celebrate the Great Tees Valley Outdoors
A fund for up to four exciting events and festivals which celebrate the best of the Tees Valley’s great outdoors has been launched. Organisers are being urged to bid to the new Great Outdoors Challenge Fund which will reward a quartet of exciting events with backing to showcase the best of our region’s natural…

Development Corporations Take Big Steps Forward With Board Backing
Hartlepool and Middlesbrough development corporation boards advanced town-centre plans in November 2023, including a Gresham developer appointment and a proposed Middleton Grange takeover.

Tees Valley Chosen As Location For New Community Forest
Tees Valley has been selected as one of two new locations nationally to establish a Community Forest, delivering a major boost to tree planting across the area. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that Tees Valley has been successful following a competitive selection…

Cutting Edge Digital Project Set For £3.5Million Boost to Break Down Trade Barriers
A pioneering digital zone is set to receive a £3.5million boost under a plan to break down barriers to trade. A new 5G “Digital Test Bed” is being lined up at Teesside International Airport – part of the Teesside Freeport – to ease practical problems which can hamper operators in customs zones. The testing zone […]

£120Million Vision to Breathe New Life into Gresham Sees Local Developer Lined Up
A local developer has been recommended to take on a project to redevelop the heart of Middlesbrough. Tarras Park Properties with iMpeC Developments Ltd will take on a £120million redevelopment of Gresham – subject to board approval. iMpeC has developed projects across the North East – including Milburngate, in…

Development Corporation Board To Consider Middleton Grange Takeover
Hartlepool Development Corporation board is to consider proposals to take control of Middleton Grange Shopping Centre under ambitious regeneration plans. Hartlepool Development Corporation is in negotiations to buy the long lease for the key asset, which is located at the heart of the Development Corporation zone.…

Workshops to Shape Future of Vital New Funding For Businesses
Businesses are being urged to step forward and shape how vital funding will help the future of thousands of businesses across the region. Business Support Engagement Workshops will take place at Teesside University next week – with Tees Valley firms encouraged to come along and offer their insight and experience.…

Big Boost For Sustainable Aviation Fuel on Teesside as Five Firms Win Multimillion Pound Funding
Making Teesside the UK capital of creating low-carbon aviation fuel has taken a big leap forward after a major funding boost. Almost £40million from the Department for Transport’s Advanced Fuels Fund has been awarded to five Teesside-based firms leading the way in creating Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The total award…

Skills Funding Given £2.5Million Boost For Green Jobs of Tomorrow
Colleges across the Tees Valley have received a multi-million-pound boost for skills – with green industries front and centre. The Department for Education has granted £2.5million of funding to Darlington College, The Education Training Collective, Middlesbrough College, Hartlepool College of Further Education, the…

Engineering Leader Shapes Bright Future for Younger Generation
A leader at one of the North East’s premier civil engineering construction firms has urged our future generations to take a closer look at construction in their working lives. Lisa Molloy, Construction and Commercial Manager at Tees Valley-based Seymour Civil Engineering visited St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary…

First Images Of Business Units As New Teesworks Development Announced
The latest multi-million-pound development on Teesworks providing space for local businesses to develop and grow has been announced. A total of 43 modern business units will be built at South Bank, offering almost 100,000sq ft of industrial, commercial and office space. The development will comprise one commercial…

Chance For Businesses To Shape Future Of Net Zero Workforce
Local businesses working on innovative net zero schemes are being urged to join a programme to inspire young people into the clean energy careers of tomorrow. As part of the national Green Careers Week taking place this week, the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority are launching an Experiences of the Workplace…

Three Bus Routes Expanded to Improve Access to Popular Retail Park
Passengers travelling to one of Tees Valley’s leading shopping destinations have received a major boost with the launch of three new bus routes. Stagecoach services 36, 37 and 38 will now stop at Teesside Park for the first time – giving shoppers from Hartlepool, Norton, and Billingham direct access. The routes…

The Key Details About Steelmaking Returning to Teesside
What is happening? British Steel has announced that Teesside will be the location for one of two of its new electric arc furnaces. It will be a multi-million pound investment bringing hundreds of jobs and see a return of steelmaking to Teesside. Where will it be? The electric arc furnace will be located at…

Steelmaking to Return to Teesside Under Plans For Electric Arc Furnace
Steelmaking is to return to Teesside after British Steel confirmed plans to build a new furnace at Teesworks. The company has selected Lackenby, Redcar, as one of the locations for its new generation of electric arc furnaces, which use greener technology to melt scrap and produce new steel. The multi-million pound…

Grants Help Middlesbrough Firm Cut Bills On Journey to Net Zero
A five-figure grant boost has helped a long-established Middlesbrough firm to reduce bills on its journey to Net Zero. Dormor Machine, at Cargo Fleet, has been engineering parts for vital UK projects for more than 40 years. Now the company has used a £59,000 grant to install new energy efficient lighting, a raft of…

New Lifts At Billingham Station Open As Biggest Ever Revamp Completed
A major project to transform access at Billingham railway station for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues is now complete – with new lifts fully operational. Billingham was the only regularly served station in the North East with no access for passengers with mobility problems to any of its platforms…

Top Business Leaders Announced For New Tees Valley Business Board To Drive Forward Growth
The 12 experienced industry leaders set to make up the Tees Valley Business Board and help boost growth and investment have now been revealed. The Board – chaired by Siobhan McArdle (The Strategy House & L3COS) with Matthew Ord (LV Logistics) as Deputy Chair – will play a defining role in representing the voice of […]

New Offices Approved for South Bank Quay as Wider Build Set for Completion Before Year End
A new base to service a game changing Teesworks project has been approved. Plans for an operations headquarters next to the upcoming South Bank Quay have been given the green light by planners at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council. The base will help service the huge quay with offices, a visitor reception, staff…

Millions Pumped into Eyes in the Sky to Boost Faster Freight and Traffic Safety
A cutting-edge system to ensure faster and safer traffic flows across our region has been expanded. The Urban Traffic Management and Control System, based in Middlesbrough, can display 32 individual CCTV feeds from across the Tees Valley – with technology which can change traffic lights, improve traffic flows, and…

Major Firm Launches Office Base For Solar Power Project At Teesside Airport
Energy giant SSE Energy Solutions has launched an office base at Teesside International Airport as part of the company’s ambitious growth plans for the region. The FTSE 100 company has signed a lease for a unit in the airport terminal, with staff now working from the location. The agreement follows an announcement…

Giant Teesworks Demolition Wins Major Global Award
A successful demolition on the former Redcar steelworks – which included one of the largest single explosions in the past 75 years – has been recognised with a major international award. The Basic Oxygen Steelmaking (BOS) plant was brought down last October as part of the clearance of Teesworks for large-scale…

More Than a Hundred People Hear of Green Future at Popular Engineering Event
A successful breakfast event has seen more than 100 people flock to hear about Net Zero developments from industry leaders. Speakers from bp and the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre offered updates on exciting projects as well as the latest developments in Net Zero policy and what it means for businesses. TEN…

Billingham Choral Society Blows The Roof Off At St Cuthbert’s!
Uplifting, emotive and beautiful musical talent was enjoyed by a vibrant community crowd as the Billingham Choral Society enjoyed the perfect acoustics of St Cuthbert’s Church for its autumn spectacle. The historic church, on Billingham Green, was host to a wonderful evening of music and singing on Tuesday 24th…

L!pstick Event: A Spooky Celebration of LGBTQIA+ Performers
Our event brings in loads of different sorts of people that come in from all different walks of life, some of them it’s their first event, and we welcome them with open arms, we come together for a shared love of wanting to feel like we ‘belong’.Leah Brydon Roberts Get ready for an unforgettable evening, […]

Friends of Billingham Green
Friends of Billingham Green was formed to connect residents, businesses and St Cuthbert’s Church around heritage, events and new community activity.

Joint replacement patients benefit from new mymobility app
Orthopaedic patients at the University Hospital of Hartlepool are using a new smartphone app to manage their surgical recovery.

Middlesbrough Contractor to Begin Work on Cutting-Edge Quay Platform
A Middlesbrough contractor has been signed up to help create a huge 150,000-tonne platform for the vital South Bank Quay. GRAHAM has brought in Middlesbrough-based ZTL Contracting – part of the Applebridge Group – to re-engineer earthwork materials that would otherwise not be suitable for re-use. This is done by…

First Export Leaves Teesside Airport’s Cargo Handling Facility As Imports Roll In
Teesside Airport’s cargo handling facility has waved goodbye to its first export shipment, following more than a dozen import movements in just two weeks. The fully accredited facility is newly up and running but has already made a name for itself as the key hub for the swift turnaround of cargo, particularly in…

Teesworks Makes Final Shortlist For New Rolls-Royce SMR Factory
Teesworks has secured a spot on the final shortlist of locations to host Rolls-Royce’s first factory manufacturing parts for its fleet of clean energy power stations. The heavy pressure vessels factory will produce and assemble some of the largest and most complex components for Rolls-Royce’s small modular reactor…

Typhoon Flypast to Honour RAF Veteran on His 100th Birthday
A Typhoon flypast and guard of honour have marked the 100th birthday of a Second World War veteran. Kaz Yajima had a remarkable RAF career – joining aged 18 and being posted to South Africa for pilot training under the Empire Flying Scheme. Warrant Officer Yajima was involved in missions including armed…

Leaders Sign Pledge to Help Boost Filming in the Region
Tees Valley leaders have signed up to an initiative to boost the TV and film industry by making it even easier to shoot projects in the region. The Filming Friendly Charter has been backed by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and the Combined Authority Cabinet, made up of the five Local Authority leaders. This…

Teesside Airport Staff Launch Huge Drive to Boost Awareness With Travel Agents
Workers at Teesside Airport are visiting more than 120 travel agents in a huge push to highlight its offering for the 2023 summer season. Ahead of January – the peak season for people booking their summer holidays – 11 members of staff have begun dropping in on agents spanning the whole of the North East, […]

EV Charging Points Installed in Huge Rollout Across Region
A fleet of new electric vehicle charging points have been installed in Darlington as part of a huge rollout to improve facilities for drivers. The £2million scheme will see the delivery of 136 chargers in 36 public car parks the length and breadth of the Tees Valley – boosting their numbers by 56.5% to 377 […]

Family Firm Urges Others To Seek Out Lifeline Grants After Investments
A successful family firm has urged others to look into grant support after reaping the benefits of new machinery and energy efficient equipment. ERW Joinery started up as a small business in Grangetown in 1979 before it grew into supplying both trades and homes with windows and doors, and manufacturing and…

Net Zero Airport By 2030 Unveiled in Bold New Vision
A bold vision to make operations at Teesside International Airport Net Zero by 2030 has been backed. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Tees Valley Combined Authority Cabinet Members approved a Net Zero Strategy for the region at a Cabinet meeting on Friday morning (December 9). And it included a move to ensure…

Work to Get Started on Vital South Bank Link Road
Work on constructing another vital piece of transport infrastructure at Teesworks is primed to begin after a contractor was selected for the project. The one-mile long South Bank Link Road will provide access to a 500-acre site at Teesworks – including the huge SeAH Wind monopile manufacturing plant. It will…

Sapere Software
Stockton-based Sapere Software built a real-time project dashboard for Port of Middlesbrough operator AV Dawson after winning a regional business challenge.

Behind the Scenes as £450Million SeAH Project Begins to Take Shape
Four in five workers now employed in building a huge wind turbine monopile factory have come from the region. Postcode data has shown around 80% of those employed on the SeAH Wind site come from within 30 miles – with almost 200 people now in work on the vast complex. The mammoth £450million monopile manufacturing […]

Chancellor Rubber Stamps Cash Injection for Darlington Station Overhaul
A vital cash injection for a vast overhaul of Darlington Station has been confirmed by the Chancellor on a visit to the region. The Darlington Station Project has already been primed with £33m from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt MP,…

Hartlepool Borough Council Officially Backs Plan to Transform Town
Plans to reinvigorate the centre of Hartlepool by establishing a Mayoral Development Corporation have won unanimous support from the town’s council following an Extraordinary Council Meeting. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Hartlepool Borough Council Leader Shane Moore revealed the proposals in April this year to…

Region Secures £300,000 Government Funding for Green Jobs and to Boost Tree Cover
The Tees Valley has been awarded £300,000 in Government funding to kickstart a huge programme of tree planting activity and create new green jobs. The grant, from the government’s Woodland Creation Accelerator Fund, will be used to help deliver the Tees Valley Woodland Creation Partnership, a joint project led by…

Number 10 Office Open For Business in Darlington
The Prime Minister used a new Number 10 office at Darlington’s Economic Campus in November 2022, as plans developed for a larger government base at Brunswick.

Gateway to Construction Gave Amy the Tools She Needed to Succeed
A beneficiary of a life-changing scheme has told how it boosted her confidence and helped her forge a career in the construction industry. Amy Richards was unemployed, seeking Universal Credit, and unsure about her next steps before her nana spotted the Gateway to Construction programme on a Facebook post. Funded…

Historic Redcar Blast Furnace Successfully Demolished
The historic Redcar Blast Furnace has been successfully demolished. Using 175kg of explosives, teams from Thompsons of Prudhoe brought down the Casting Houses, the Dust Catcher, Charge Conveyors, and the Blast Furnace at the Redcar Blast Furnace at 9am on Wednesday, 23 November. Clean up operations at the site will…

Ten Year Deal Secured for World-Leading Fire Training Centre
A new 10-year deal has been signed to keep a world-leading fire training centre at Teesside International Airport. Serco has signed a 10-year lease with the airport – safeguarding more than 50 jobs at the world class centre of excellence. The International Fire Training Centre (IFTC) has been based at the airport…

Teesworks Skills Academy Welcomes Hundreds of Pupils As It Throws Open Doors
Hundreds of students have been the first to take advantage of the all-new Teesworks Skills Academy building as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. The building has been used by 200 Y9 to Y13 Tees Valley pupils for five days of activities to hone their entrepreneurial skills, with Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen…

Path To Unleashing Region’s Hydrogen Potential Outlined In New Report
The Tees Valley’s pioneering hydrogen sector is laying the foundation for the world’s first net zero industrial cluster – with a new paper published today setting out how the region will lead the UK in its energy ambitions. A Vision for Hydrogen on the Tees Valley details how the area can become globally…
CommunityNEW STATE-OF-THE-ART TEACHING BLOCK ON THE WAY!
Work is underway for a new multi-million pound teaching block at Egglescliffe School and Sixth Form. The new state-of-the-art facilities will include classrooms for art, music, geography, maths, ICT and modern foreign languages. There will also be a dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEND) suite and kitchen and dining facilities. The building is being funded by […]
CommunityClaire and Alice marching onwards to Old Trafford in the Big Boro Walk
Boro are set to take 9,500 fans to Old Trafford in the FA Cup this weekend – and one Riverside regular is hoping to match the travelling army pound for pound. Claire Streeter along with two of her friends, Alice Hutchinson and Abbey Lyle, set out to walk the 106 miles from the Riverside to […]
FestivalsMiddlesbrough Council: Orange Pip moves to Centre Square For Christmas Special
Orange Pip Market is on the move this weekend in response to the latest government guideline changes to indoor venue requirements. Relocating from its proposed venue of Middlesbrough Town Hall, the popular artisan food and drink festival will now be held outdoors on Centre Square. Visitors planning to attend are encouraged to take a lateral […]
Community InitiativesYoung carers thrive at Middlesbrough College
Middlesbrough College has received national recognition for the support it gives students who are young carers. The Carers Trust and The Children’s Society have acknowledged the way in which the College helps young carers who have to juggle studying and looking after a loved one. In recognition, the College has picked up a prestigious Young […]
CommunityWynyard Park teams up with local community group to support outdoor learning for young people
West View Project was created in 1980 with a desire to provide safe areas for children and young people to play. The concept has evolved over the years and they now offer activities that have been created to enhance skills within children and young people. Focussing on outdoor learning, the community group engages with children […]
