Burradon and Camperdown News

Photos - Alan Carr Unveils Burradon Memorial

2011-11-01T09:21:00.000Z

Britains' best entertainer, Alan Carr (yes, we're biased, but will accept no arguments against), came to Burradon on 30th October 2011 to unveil a duplicate montage dedicated to the 186o Mining Disaster.

This was at the invitation of the Burradon and Camperdown Forum after Alan had discovered 11 of his ancestors and relatives had perished in awful circumstances in the pit explosion. Alan was made aware of these facts while filming for the BBC programme "Who Do You Think You Are".

A montage was originally created by artist Paul Allan for the commemoration event held on 2nd March 2010. This was erected in the school, but was of limited availability for the public to see, therefore a second montage was commissioned and unveiled on Fryers Millenium Green.

Alan Carr Unveils 1860 Pit Disaster Montage

2011-11-01T08:44:00.002Z

Britain's top comedian, Alan Carr, returns to Burradon on 30th October 2011, at the invitation of the Burradon and Camperdown Forum to unveil this memorial.

Short Walk Hazelrigg & Burradon Coal Co. Ltd. Figure of 8

2010-08-02T19:18:00.003+01:00

Hello,
I represent the Northumberland Railway Walks Society (NRWS) www.northrailwalks.org.uk as a committee member and Walk Leader.

The School Photo attachment taken at Dudley County Modern School around about 1948 portrays, left to right, Richard "Titchy" Bewick, Humfrey Shanks and
myself, Bill Halliday. Born in Middle Row, moved to Strawberry Terrace until I
was 8 years old, then the family moved to Ethel Street, Dudley. I served my
apprenticeship at Weetslade Colliery and was employed there until 1966 as a
Mechanical Fitter.

The short walk is one of a programme of short walks for the current year.

I wonder if anyone would be interested in joining the group on Sunday 15
August, attendance fee is £1.00 per head, or, if indeed anyone would care to
join us for the purpose of passing on local information of historical interest.

Regards, Bill Halliday

° ° ° ° ° ° ° °

Details

Sunday 15 August 2010 – Hazelrigg & Burradon Coal Co. Ltd. Figure of 8

OS map No: Explorer 316.
Grid Ref: NZ 271 722 OR NZ 260 723
Distance: 6.0 miles OR 4.6 miles.
Grade: Easy, level ground except for a long gradual ascent to the Weetslade Country Park View Point and descent.
Leaders: Bill & Doris Halliday. Mobile: 07554350808.
Back-up: Roger & Margaret Thornley. Mobile: 07785541769
Start: Fryers Millenium Green, Burradon/Camperdown opposite Camperdown Social Club.
Time:11:30 a.m.
Alternative Start: Weetslade Country Park car park on the B1319 near High Weetslade Farm
Alternative Start Time: !2.00 p.m.
How to Get There: Public Transport Arriva 363, 343, Go North East 81.
Please check timetables
Alight: Camperdown Hotel bus stop.
Car Parking: Front Street, Burradon OR Alternative Start: Weetslade Country Park car park.
Route: From Fryers Millemium Green we head west along the Seaton Burn Waggonway to meet walkers opting for the shorter distance at the Weetslade Country Park car park tables, for an early picnic lunch. From here the route takes us to the top of the landscaped spoil heap, an excellent viewpoint with panoramic views at every compass point. After the descent to the wetland reed beds we proceed to Wideopen heading for the Little Waters NZ 2373 and Seaton Burn Waggonway to return to the two starting points.

TIMETABLES do change. Please check details nearer the scheduled walk date.

Forthcoming Meetings

2010-04-19T20:51:00.002+01:00

Date & Agenda
04-May-10 The Community Centre and the Wellbeing Centre
01-Jun-10 Highways and Traffic
06-Jul-10 Northumbria Police
03-Aug-10 Annual General Meeting

Mural marks victims of Burradon pit disaster

2010-02-01T18:11:00.003Z

Burradon-born artist, Paul Allan, has been commissioned to create a huge mural immortalising every aspect of colliery life. Paul, who is now putting the finishing touches to the four-metre (12ft) by one-metre (3ft) piece hopes his work will be around for generations to come.

Read more here

John Carr a Victim of the Mining Disaster and his Descendants

2010-01-14T12:59:00.002Z

John Carr was one of two men who had walked away from their work at Burradon Colliery about six weeks before the disaster which occurred on March 2nd 1860. He was very critical of the pit's condition, having witnessed the presence of explosive gases and vowed never to go down the pit again.

On the morning of March 2nd, the family being now almost destitute, his wife enquired of him how they were going to manage. He told her to "Lay the pit claes out", and he set off reluctantly towards the colliery and proceeded underground to start a shift. He died in the explosion.

John's son, William, later married my GG Aunt Mary Ann Fryer.

Some time ago, I received an email from a lady in Australia named Pam Abercrombie, a direct descendant of John Carr. She had read the appeal for more information on the disaster and supplied details of what happened to the Carr family, and their emigration to Australia, post 1860. Here is some of the information below:

John was born abt. 1817 and was living at West Cramlington Colliery during the time of the 1841 Census.

John married Dorothy Hughes on 30th September 1843. They were both living in Hazlerigg at the time. John's occupation on the marriage certificate is Pitman. Johns father Caleb Carr was also listed as a Pitman.

John and Dorothy were living in Downs Lane, Hetton Le Hole with their four children Samuel, William, Joseph and Elizabeth according to the 1851 Census.

1860 - According to John's death certificate he died on 3 March 1860 at Burradon Colliery aged 40yrs. Occupation Pitman. Cause of death - Explosion of gas. Information received from Stephen Reed, Coroner for Northumberland. Inquest held 3 March 1860. His death was registered 30 April 1860.

1860 - According to John's son Samuel's death certificate - Samuel Carr died 2 March 1860 at Burradon Colliery aged 15yrs. Occupation Coal Miner. Cause of death - Explosion of Gas. Informant William Kirkley, present at the death, Colliery Burradon. Samuels death was registered 18 August 1860.

1861 - John's wife Dorothy was living at 16 West Row (within?) in the village of Hazlerigg with her children, William 14, Elizabeth 10, John 8, Richard 6, Robert 4 (my great grandfather) and Ann 1. Her son Joseph was not living with the family at this time but was living with his Aunty and Uncle.

1864 - John's wife Dorothy remarried to Elijah Davis, he was also a Pitman and they were both living in Hazlerigge and in 1871 were living at Bedlington Colliery. Fortunately for the Carr family that followed, John and Dorothy's children retained the Carr surname and in fact according to following Census information 1881, 1891 Dorothy is again documented as Carr.

John's son Robert (my great grandfather), was a coal miner according to his marriage certificate and was living at Barrington Colliery in 1880.

Robert came to Australia in 1885 with his wife and young children including my grandfather John. The family settled in Newcastle NSW and Robert worked in the coal mines here (unable to cofirm which one at this time).

Robert and his family returned to Northumberland in England in 1894 and finally returned to Newcastle Australia in 1915 where the family remain today.

All of Roberts sons were coalminers here in Newcastle as were their sons. My Dad included.

On the 6 December 1925, my fathers older brother John Robert Carr lost his life at Burwood Colliery. He was only 19yrs, employed as a "Main Roads Driver". He was unharnessing a horse at the pit bottom, when the horse bolted. His hands were caught in the reins, he was dragged behind the animal and was crushed against the ribs of the colliery.

The generations which have followed have chosen not to work in the mines.

I have grown up surrounded by staunch Union supporters, both men and women, in fact my Dad's sister, great grandaughter of John Carr who died at Burradon Colliery, was a great supporter of workers rights and I can remember being dragged off the footpath by her during a protest march to join the protesters as a child. She is nearly 90yrs old now.

I would like to think that my great great grandfather John, would have been proud to know that his family has continued to speak out for the working class man as he did all those years ago.

There is so much more to know about our family history, but finding John has given us a good insight into who we are. My family have been Australians for almost
100yrs, but still feel the connection with Northumberland and still call it "The Old Country".

Unfortunately Pam can't make it to the commemoration event, but will raise a glass to the victims on the day.

Fuller information can be found on the disaster by clicking http://burradon-camperdown.co.uk/8.html

Do You Have a Connection to the 1860 Mining Disaster

2009-11-17T19:24:00.002Z

Plans are now almost finalised for the commemmoration of the 1860 Burradon Mining Disaster to be held at the primary school.

Are you a relative or descendant of a victim of the disaster? Do you have a connection to the Disaster? We would like to invite you to this commemoration. Numbers, however, are strictly limited and attendance will be by necessity invitation only.

If you do wish to receive an invitation we need to know by January 8th 2010 please.

To read more on the Disaster: Summary of Events http://bit.ly/39Gz5M and The Burradon Disaster Heroes http://bit.ly/2tfHiZ which summarises the role played by the Newcastle Daily Chronicle, Joseph Cowen, Baxter Langley and the miner's leaders in challenging the coalowners on conditions and liability.

Pantomime and other Christmas events

2009-11-09T19:54:00.005Z

For details of this years Pantomime and the Burradon Community Primary School Christmas Fair and Nativity play, please visit the events page on the Burradon and Camperdown web site by clicking here.

Have your say on Health and Social Care

2009-10-15T19:04:00.005+01:00

North TynesidevLINk can help you and your community to have a stronger voice in the health and social care issues that matter to you.

LINk is a network of people and groups who work together to make services better for everyone.

Monday 19 October at John Willie SamsCentre, Dudley, 1pm to 3pm (12.45pm for lunch)
Come along to this free event to:

Find out all about LINk and how it works
Share your ideas and concerns about health andsocial care services
Learn about opportunities for you to get involved
Get health checks and lifestyle advice from North

Tyneside Community Health Development Team Contact LINk on 0191 200 1429 or email link@voda.org.uk to book your place.

Commemmoration Of The 150th Anniversary Of The Mining Disaster Of 2ND Of March 1860

2009-10-13T20:09:00.004+01:00

The Burradon & Camperdown Forum, Burradon Community Primary School and the Church Of The Good Shepherd are working together to commemorate the mining disaster at Burradon Colliery and also celebrate the village’s mining heritage.
As part of the commemoration, Burradon Primary School is making a DVD of people’s memories of the village’s mining past and its future.
The school invites residents to contribute to the project and in particular contributions from former miners, wives and children of former miners, Bevin boys, descendants from victims of the disaster or anyone with an interesting story of village life. Anyone wishing to be involved in the project is requested to contact Ms Hunter, head of Burradon Primary School-0191 2008345.

Future Meetings

2009-10-12T18:21:00.007+01:00

The venue for the meetings is the T H Carr Lounge, Camperdown Social Club. The meetings commence at 7pm prompt. Residents are welcome to attend the meetings and be involved in the discussions or raise any other matters affecting the village.

Agenda
03-Nov-09 - Priorities for 2010
01-Dec-09 - Housing-Places for People, Nomad, N. T. Council and Northumbria Police
05-Jan-10 - Commemoration of the 1860 Mining Disaster
02-Feb-10 - Commemoration of the 1860 Mining Disaster

Plans Approved for the Development of the Burradon First School Site

2009-09-29T14:16:00.001+01:00

North Tyneside Council has approved Nomad Housings planning application to build seven two bed bungalows on the former school site and two bungalows on the land on Weetslade Terrace, Burradon.Nomad Housing Limited has invited contractors to tender for the contract and it is envisaged that construction will commence late October 2009.The construction of the bungalows will provide essential accommodation for elderly residents and will also increase the number houses available for families in the village.

HELP IN TRACING CARR FAMILY

2009-09-29T12:01:00.001+01:00

I wondered if anyone could help me trace the Carr family who, around 1880 - 1900+ lived in Burradon/West Moor and Burradon Colliery.

The family consisted of:

John G Carr, born 1857 in Blackfell, Birtley. He was a coal miner who married Susannah (Aisbitt) and had the following children:

Matthew (My Grandfather) b. 1894-1961
Richard b.1890
John G b.1896
Isabella b. 1899
Andrew b.1902
Mary b.1891
Meggie b.1886

All the children were born in either West Moor, Burradon Colliery or Camperdown.

Any help would be gratefully received.

Pat Johnson (Mrs) ciao_pat6@yahoo.co.uk

World's Biggest Coffee Morning

2009-08-26T19:16:00.004+01:00

Hi there,

Just to inform you that Davison Chemist Burradon will be taking part in the MacMillan Cancer Care World's biggest coffee morning this year. it's on the 25th September, starting at about 10am. we'll have homemade cupcakes and other treats for sale and coffee and tea available.

Many thanks

Hayley McDonald, Davisons Chemist

Nature Garden

2009-08-16T16:11:00.003+01:00

Burradon Community Primary School Receives Legal Aid to Help Children Learn the Laws of Nature in Nature Garden

Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, Newcastle has generously donated £250 to Burradon Community Primary School to develop its nature garden. The school is to create raised beds within its nature garden area which enable the children to grow vegetables as part of their environmental study classes. The funds will also be used to plant trees within the area and to purchase a petrol strimmer which will be used to maintain the nature garden and prevent the area becoming overgrown.The creation of the raised beds and tree planting is a further phase of the development of the nature garden which is extremely popular with the children and includes a nature trail, pond, pathways, wildlife habitat, bat boxes, bird hides, picnic tables and benches.Emily Sutherland, Irwin Mitchell visited the school prior to the holidays and spent a morning with the children in the nature garden.Miss Hunter, Head Teacher, Burradon Primary School said: “ We are extremely grateful to Irwin Mitchell Solicitors for their generous donation which has enabled the school to develop the nature garden which is a hugely important and popular amenity with the children.”

Chris Wray

LOST

2009-08-06T15:52:00.004+01:00

Can you help find this much loved family pet?

He is a Black Labrador called DYLAN.
He was last seen in Burradon on Friday 17th July 2009.

If you think you might have seen him or know where he is please ring:

07949564180 or 07725566190

or contact the RSPCA on: 03001234999

Dylan has a microchip implant which can be scanned to confirm his identity at the RSPCA, cat and dog shelter or vet.

Poster

Commemoration of Mining Disaster Renews Village Ties Across the Atlantic

2009-07-30T14:01:00.004+01:00

The Forum website has enabled the descendants of Burradon families to renew their connection to the village. Barbara Yanico's family emigrated to America 130 years ago to start a new life and their story of their journey and an account of their new life has been retold on the Forum website. There is a further article on the website regarding John Wilson's involvement in the foundation of United Mineworkers of America's Union in 1890 which is a fascinating article and is a tribute to the memory of the miners who perished in the Burradon Colliery Disaster of 2nd March 1860.

Regards Chris

Chairman of North Tyneside’s Commendation Award

2009-07-18T21:14:00.008+01:00

North Tyneside Council Officially Recognised Village Resident’s Dedication with the Chairman of North Tyneside’s Commendation Award

We are proud to announce that the Chairman of North Tyneside Council has awarded local residents Major Bill Campbell and Ken Roddam with commendations for their work in the community.
The Chairman’s Commendation Award Scheme was established to recognise the hard work and commitment of people who voluntarily give up their time to help their local community. The community champions give unselfishly to others in terms of their kindness, time and effort and making a significant personal contribution to either their local community or by helping other residents.

Ken Roddam, Burradon Post Office has always gone above and beyond his role as Post Master and provides and excellent service to his customers and is regarded as a pillar of the local community. He is always prepared to do extra work and hours especially for the older residents in the village.
On numerous occasions residents call on Ken in the most difficult of situations and invariably during a family crisis for advice and guidance and he has never ignored any request for help. Ken has the deep admiration and respect of all the people in the village.

Major Bill Campbell has devoted many years to working on behalf of the veteran community in North Tyneside. Bill helps the veterans and their families and his advice has helped resolve many issue affecting former members of Her Majesty’s armed forces and their families.
Bill organises fundraising events in the Borough and coordinates Remembrance Day Parades and the local community is extremely proud of his effort and achievements.

We trust everyone in the community will agree that Ken and Bill deserve the awards and you will join us with our sincere congratulations to both recipients.

Burradon Community Primary School Appoints New Head

2009-06-22T18:18:00.002+01:00

Burradon Community Primary School has announced the appointment of Miss Angela Hunter as Head Teacher following the retirement of Mr Gilfillan.

Miss Hunter was deputy for 5 years and has acted as Head Teacher during Mr Gilfillan’s absence. The appointment is universally popular with the children, parents and the local community and Miss Hunter has the best wishes of everyone associated with the school.

Miss Hunter worked closely with Mr Gilfillan during her 5 years at the school and she was closely involved with the delivery of the new school. We anticipate that Miss Hunter will introduce new ideas to protect the achievements to date and to ensure the school continues to provide an excellent education for the children in the village.

Free Weight Management Service

2009-04-18T08:48:00.008+01:00

Hi there,
just thought i'd let you know about our new service at Davison Chemist. To coincide with the launch of Alli, a weight loss capsule on 22nd April, we will be offering a free weight management service. This is designd to assess whether patients would be eligible to buy Alli, and to monitor their weight and provide support on a monthly basis.

http://www.davisonchemist.co.uk/ .

Thanks very much,
Hayley McDonald

Mr Gilfillan's Retirement

2009-03-10T14:09:00.004Z

It is with great sadness that we inform the local community of Mr Gilfillan's decision to formally announce his retirement as Headteacher of Burradon Primary School. Mr Gilfillan requested that we post his message of gratitude and appreciation to the community on the website:

"It is with great sadness and regret that I have decided to retire from the headship of Burradon Community Primary School. My continuing ill health is not improving and I think that this is the right time to step aside.
I have had 10 very happy years in Burradon. I am proud of what we have achieved together and I have been able to call upon the Forum on countless occasions for support and guidance. My strongest memory is from 2006 when the new school building was opened by the then Prime Minister Tony Blair. That was a wonderful day for the school and the local community.
I would dearly love to keep in touch with developments and progress within the village. But for now may I thank the members of the Forum and the residents of the village for their unfailing care, friendship and support.
I would also like to thank Miss Hunter for the wonderful way in which she has led the school in my absence, I hope to see you all again in the near future to pass on my thanks in person."

Alistair

Mr Gifillan was appointed Headteacher in 1999 and he immediately opened the school to the people in the local community which placed the school at the heart of the village. We should not forget that the fortunes of the school had declined dramtaically before Mr Gilfillan's appointment and would have closed in 1995 without the intervention of the Rt Hon Stephen Byers MP.
Mr Gilfillan and his team of dedicated teachers have transformed the education of the children in the village which is reflected in numerous OFSTED reports and the new school which was opened in 2006.
Although Mr Gilfillan is retiring he has left a remarkable legacy for the children, community and his eventual successor and he retires with the sincerest best wishes of the people of Burradon and we hope that he will continue to be a regular visitor and contribute to the future success of the village.

Flying Scotsman

2009-03-02T08:45:00.003Z

Hi there
Don't know if you're aware of it but there's a good book about the derailing of the Flying Scotsman between Cramlington and Dudley in 1926. It's called 'Let No Wheels Turn' by Margeret Hutcherson.

http://www.letnowheelsturn.com/

My old man (Jack Robinson) knew a couple of the blokes responsible and also Joe Martin of Burradon who was present at the event but being a schoolboy at the time was sent packing by the perpetrators to keep him out of trouble.
I recall old Joe and my old man having many a natter about the 'old days.' It's sad that the younger generation have little knowledge of such events. There are three kings buried less than a mile from where I live (at Tynemouth Priory.)
They should know their history.
cheers
John Robinson
Tynemouth(formerly of Burradon

Northumberland Aged Mineworkers Homes Association

2009-02-18T19:33:00.007Z

Just to say I love the site.

Great to come across the Morrison shop and the old Cooper coaches to add to our family tree story along with much background info.

I wonder if anyone could help me identify the whereabouts of the home on the attached photo of 2 unknown people. It was dated 7th September 1926 and written on the back 'with love from aunt May and uncle Jim' (relations of the Knox/Hayes or Gray family of Longbenton). Below the window I can read part of GOSFORTH.

I would love to try and identify these folk.

Hopefully.

Jackie Mackay

Click the image to enlarge.

Can you help Jackie identify the people or the property in this picture? Please leave a comment or get in touch via the main website.

The Burradon & Camperdown Forum Christmas Pantomime

2009-01-16T14:41:00.007Z

Robinson Crusoe

Judging by the level of noise produced by the children during The Panto Company’s Robinson Crusoe, the production was a resounding success.
There were 126 children in the audience who were thoroughly entertained by the cast and considering it was the 22nd December proved to be a welcome distraction and provided the parents with respite from the frenzy of Christmas.

It was a high energy production with a fabulous repertoire of songs and jokes which would have amused the most cynical of adults during the festive season.
The welfare of the local children remains a paramount consideration of the Forum and we will continue to organise events to provide great memories when they reminisce about their childhoods in future years.

Doreen Isbister and her team of helpers of Irene Coates, Irene Gilbert, Gladys Haskins, Ben Rutherford, Kieron Mallen, Niaph Mallen, Keith Francis, Lois Wray and Rebecca Stephenson, deserve a large round of applause for their hard work which ensured the day was a huge success.

We wish to reiterate our sincere gratitude to Sue Martin, Community Foundation for her support and guidance during the grant application process to the Community Development Fund and the Office of the Third Sector in respect of its Grassroots Grant which funded the pantomime.

THE HARDY FAMILY OF WEETSLADE TERRACE

2009-01-07T19:43:00.002Z

Cynthia Fair (formerly Hardy) wrote to me recently with an enquiry about her grandparents, by the surname Hardy, who lived at Weetslade Terrace in the early 20th century. Members of the family had been schoolteachers and also ran the Burradon Post Office. If anyone can share any information on this family Cynthia would be grateful to hear from you. EMAIL mikefair@talktalk.net

Forthcoming Forum Meetings

2009-01-06T19:50:00.002Z

3rd February 2009

The Commemoration of the 1860 Mining Disaster.

If you have any ideas on how the event should be commemorated or would like to be involved, or if you are a descendant of someone affected by the disaster then please come along.

3rd March 2009

Ideas to Improve the Village

7th April 2009

Environment

Meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of every month in the Camperdown Social Club, T.H. Carr Lounge, 7.00pm. Everyone is welcome to attend...

Funding Award For Mining Disaster Anniversary

2008-12-29T12:10:00.003Z

The Forum is delighted to announce that the funding has been secured for the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Burradon Colliery Mining Disaster of 2nd March 1860. The project was awarded £5,000 at the Elected Mayors Well-Being Fund for Neighbourhoods Event held on 27 November 2008.

Community Groups from North Tyneside attended the event and there was a presentation of the individual projects and there was a vote to award 2 grants of £5,000. The Commemoration Project received 60% of the votes which is a remarkable achievement considering the quality of the projects competing for the awards. The Forum wishes to convey our appreciation to the groups which supported our project.

The preparation for the official commemoration service will commence at the Forum meeting held on 3 February 2009. The Forum will be working closely with Burradon Community Primary School and The Church of the Good Shepherd. Miss Hunter, Acting Head Teacher, Burradon Community Primary School has started preparing for the event and has held a series of meetings with representatives of Woodhorn Colliery Museum and it is hoped that the children will visit the museum to research life working at a mine and there will be retired miners available to discuss their experiences working in a colliery.

However, we hope that retired miners from Burradon Colliery will volunteer to work with the school and visit the children to discuss their experiences working at the pit which will ensure the project is more relevant for the local children.
Local artist Paul Allan will begin the preliminary sketches of the montage in the New Year and he will be working with the school during the development phase of the artwork and incorporating the children's ideas which will ensure the artwork reflects the ideas and vision of the entire community.

Anyone interested in becoming involved with the project is requested to contact Miss Hunter on 0191-2008345.

Finally, we wish to express our gratitude to Felicity Shoesmith, Angela Gent and Jackie Laughton, North Tyneside Council for their support and encouragement during the application process to the Elected Mayor's Well-Being Fund.

It is our intention to post regular updates on the website to inform the community of the progress of the project and residents are welcome to attend the Forum meeting on 3rd February 2009 to become involved in the project.

Village Christmas Events

2008-12-11T12:41:00.003Z

13/12/08
1-3pm
Event: Christmas Fayre
Organiser: The Parish of Weetslade
Venue: St Paul’s Church, Dudley

14/12/08
6pm
Event: Churches Together Candlelit Service
Organiser: St John’s RC Church,
Venue: Annitsford Methodist &
The Parish of Weetslade, St John’s RC Church,
Annitsford

22/12/08
1-3pm
Event: Children’s Pantomime
Organiser: The Burradon & Camperdown Forum
Venue: Camperdown Social Club

23/12/08
6pm
Event: Christingle Service
Organiser: The Parish of Weetslade
Venue: St Paul’s Church, Dudley

24/12/08
6pm
Event: Christingle Service
Organiser: The Parish of Weetslade
Venue: The Church of the Good Shepherd

25/12/08
9am
Event: Holy Communion with Carols
Organiser: The Parish of Weetslade
Venue: St Paul’s Church, Dudley

25/12/08
10.30am
Event: Holy Communion with Carols
Organiser: The Parish of Weetslade
Venue: The Church of the Good Shepherd

27/12/08
7pm
Event: Retired Members Party
Organiser: Camperdown Social Club
Venue: Camperdown Social Club

Robinson Crusoe Christmas Pantomime

2008-11-26T19:43:00.004Z

The Panto Company Present
Robinson Crusoe Christmas Pantomime
Monday 22nd December 2008
1pm-3pm
Camperdown Social Club

Welcome aboard as Defoe's classic book takes to the stage in this priceless performance, packed with music and laughter!

The Panto Company's production of Robinson Crusoe is a delight for both children and adults. It's the tale of the heroic captain of the Good Ship Lizzie. His mission: to seek out wondrous treasures, discover strange new lands, and to boldly go where no action-packed adventure has gone before!

Yet, when Crusoe is shipwrecked, he has more than new lands and treasure on his mind. There's his hilarious new friend, Man Friday; the beautiful Princess Moonflower; and the wicked pirate, Captain Hogwash.

Hold tight – this show travels at a thousand smiles an hour

Tickets are available at the Camperdown Social Club.

Children must be 4-11 years of age and either reside in the village or parents/grandparents are members of Camperdown Social Club.

All children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised during the performance. In the event parents are unable to arrange childcare for younger brothers and sisters, the children will be admitted to the performance.

The children will receive a selection box at the end of the performance and must retain their tickets. The pantomime was funded with a grant received from the Grassroots Grants which the Community Foundation administered on behalf of the Community Development Fund and the Office of the Third Sector.

We are particularly grateful to Sue Martin, Grants Officer, Community Foundation for her support during the application process.

Anniversary of the 1860 Mining Disaster

2008-11-23T09:44:00.007Z

The Commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the 1860 Mining Disaster

At the meeting of the Burradon & Camperdown Forum (“Forum”) held on 7th October 2008 the residents decided that the village should commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Burradon Colliery mining disaster on 2nd March 2010.

The disaster claimed the lives of 76 men and boys and had a devastating affect on the all the families in the village and even today the events still resonate in the community, as we endeavour to preserve the memories of the victims.

Northumbria University successfully restored the original scroll which was commissioned in 1895.

It was agreed that we commission a piece of contemporary artwork and local artist Paul Allan was appointed to work in partnership with the community and in particular the children at the local school. We feel that the artwork will renew our bond with our past and the children’s research of the disaster will ensure the events have a genuine poignancy and relevance.

There will be a memorial ceremony on Tuesday 2nd March 2010 at Burradon Primary School and the local community and dignitaries will be invited to the remember the tragic events.

We desperately require the assistance of former miners to recount their lives working at Burradon Colliery and to visit the school and work with Paul Allan and the school children. Photographs of the village would also be appreciated to supplement the photographs in the village albums and the website (the photographs will be copied and returned immediately).

Former miners wishing to participate or residents with photographs are requested to contact Ms Hunter, Deputy Headmistress at Burradon Primary School on 2008345.

At a meeting at Burradon Primary School on 13 November, Paul Allan presented a series of design proposals which portrayed his vision of the Commemorative Project which would blend his own artistic representations of the evolution of Burradon during the 150 years since the tragedy. The visions and ideas of the schoolchildren, depicting the development of “Burradon of the future" during their own lifetimes.

The names of the 76 men and boys who lost their lives in the Burradon disaster would be displayed in etched format, on a clear, commemorative panel suspended over a section of the visual montage.

After hearing Paul's presentation, all present at the meeting felt that the overall impression of the display would be one of great respect, history, and its contemporary design would ensure the memorial was relevant to the children and young people.

Paul explained that the display piece (which is intended to measure 4m long x 1.2m tall) would be constructed wherever possible using environmentally friendly materials and construction methods, and would be professionally erected by one of the Astley Signs fitting teams. He also mentioned that Astley Signs' Directors had shown great interest in becoming involved in such a landmark project for the North East, which is consistent with its existing community development policy.

The design will be discussed at the meeting of the Burradon & Camperdown Forum on Tuesday 3rd February 2009 and local residents are welcome to attend with a view to becoming involved with the project.

Notice Of Public Meeting

2008-11-16T15:35:00.003Z

Tuesday 2nd December 7pm

T H Carr Longe, Camperdown Social Club.

Topic: Review Nomad E5's proposed plans for the development of the former primary school site.

Residents are urged to attend the meeting to submit their views on the proposal.

CANCER RESEARCH UK is looking for volunteers in your area!

2008-10-26T11:54:00.000Z

Volunteering is a great way to develop your skills, meet new people and work as part of an enthusiastic team while supporting our life-saving work. We welcome people from all walks of life, no matter how much or how little time people are able to give us. There are a range of opportunities available, whether you would like to help us promote our campaigns, organise a Relay For Life, help at our events or become a volunteer speaker we want to hear from you! Please visit our website at www.cancerresearchuk.org to apply online now. Alternatively, please email Clara White at clara.white@cancer.org.uk for more information. Your support will help us to continue our vital cancer research work. Together we will beat cancer.
Clara White
Area Volunteer Assistant- Local Supporter Fundraising
North East & Cumbria, Harrogate & East Yorkshire
Cancer Research UK
www.cancerresearchuk.org.uk

Burradon Colliery Memorial

2008-10-25T11:56:00.003+01:00

Residents may have noticed that the Pit Wheel Memorial on Station Road was recently painted. The paint had peeled and the memorial appeared neglected.
The regular maintenance of the memorial is extremely important and demonstrates to people visiting the village that the community values the memories of the miners who worked in the mines and in particular the men who lost their lives.

Although the mine closed in 1975, we are committed to retaining our heritage and history wherever possible to preserve the customs and traditions of the mining communities.

North Tyneside Council’s Waggonway’s team completed the work on behalf the local community and we wish to convey our appreciation to Neil Hodgson and his dedicated team.

Mr Iain Bell, North Tyneside Council’s Member Services help was invaluable and we sincerely appreciate his support.

Development of the Former Burradon Primary School Site

2008-10-25T09:46:00.011+01:00

Residents are advised that representatives of North Tyneside Council and Nomad E5 Housing Association are attending the Burradon & Camperdown Forum’s meeting on 4 November 2008. The meeting commences at 7pm and the venue is Camperdown Social Club. The redevelopment of the site is crucial to the future prosperity of the village and the views of local residents are vital to ensure the scheme proposed is consistent with the wishes and aspirations of the community. In the circumstances, we urge residents to attend the meeting to present their views.

Meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of every month in the Camperdown Social Club, T.H. Carr Lounge, 7.00pm. Everyone is welcome to attend...

Network with Burradon Facebook Users

2008-10-23T14:51:00.002+01:00

Diana Daniels, a long time supporter of this website, writes:

"Just wondered if their are any Burradon people uses the Facebook on the web? It seems to be a good way of getting to know people, and making friends. I have tried the link but it doesn't come up with much. Do you think it is a good idea?

I am sure their are people in Burradon would like to find their old mates from way back."

Why not add the keyword Burradon into your Facebook page and get to know each other.

Son Hits Out at Bin Wagon Death Fine

2008-10-23T14:47:00.001+01:00

From journallive.co.uk (click on the title above)

Remembrance Day Services

2008-10-22T20:34:00.010+01:00

Sunday 9th November 2008

Remembrance Day Services

10.30am: Service at the Church of the Good Shepherd
11.50am: Wreaths at The War Memorial Cottage, Station Road, Camperdowm
The residents are invited to both services to remember the fallen who made the ultimate sacrifice

Fireworks and Bonfire night

2008-10-21T18:45:00.004+01:00

Dear Residents

Fireworks and Bonfire night

Northumbria Police together with North Tyneside Council are committed to reducing crime and disorder and increasing trust and confidence in our communities. We recognise that the crime and disorder associated with Bonfire night has in the past reduced feelings of safety amongst our communities.

The Police and staff from the Environmental Services Department at North Tyneside Council will be patrolling your area as Bonfire night approaches in order to prevent and deal with any offences. This will include officers in uniform on mobile and foot patrols on bonfire night itself.

Those who engage in abandoning rubbish illegally or who misuse or sell fireworks irresponsibly will be prosecuted. Any rubbish discarded on a green area will be dealt with as a breach of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which carries a maximum fine of £50,000. Illegal bonfires will be removed. We would like to remind residents that their tenancy may be at risk if they take part in any acts of anti social behaviour.

Residents are requested to contact the Council to have bulky items of waste collected or dispose of rubbish at approved Council waste disposal sites. If you have any information which may assist us to reduce crime and disorder please contact the Police or Council on the numbers given below.

To arrange collection of bulky waste or to report fly tipping (Illegal dumping) contact 0845 2000 103

To contact Forest Hall Neighbourhood Policing Team contact 03456 043043 extension 69191

Northumbria Police and North Tyneside Council will continue to work closely with communities in order to reduce crime and disorder. Thank you in anticipation of your continued support which will help us to ensure that we all have a safe and enjoyable Bonfire night.

Pam Bridges
Police Inspector
Forest Hall

Wayne Young
Environmental Protection
Co-ordinator
North Tyneside Council

It's Official - Burradon and Camperdown is a good place to live

2008-10-06T12:25:00.001+01:00

At times we are despondent and encourage negative thoughts concerning the village and imagine a thousand other places we would prefer to live. The village has problems,however,other areas also have similar challenges and it is easy to ignore the positive aspects of living in Burradon and Camperdown.

It was not that many years ago that the village was derelict and the sense of community was disappearing,however,with the hard work of many different groups in the village and with the support of North Tyneside Council, Places for People, ward Councillors and Northumbria Police, we have been able to reverse the years of decline and revitalise the sense of community spirit.

We imagine there are many sceptics reading this article and shaking their heads in disbelief. Fortunately, we have the evidence in the form of a survey which Andy Warriner Places for People recently conducted and the findings are detailed below:

Burradon & Camperdown Questionnaire - Results

Respondent Num Question 1 - what do you like about Burradon & Camperdown?

1 everything
2 Friendly people. New school & welfare facilities
3 New school & recreation ground. Pit wheel in remembrance of Burr pit & workmen. Flower beds installed by residents and upkeep by council
4 Left blank
5 Live in area all my life
6 Looking very nice. The flower tubs are an asset
7 Still a community spirit from origins of mining.
8 Moved back to Burradon, and 'found the friendliness still there'.
9 Left blank
10 Nothing at all
11 Left blank
12 Left blank
13 Friendliness of residents, good park, social club and pubs, Flowers & big wheel.
14 Friendly
15 The scenery - walkways - the pond - seeing the swans & ducks etc.
16 It is home
17 Friendly people
18 small friendly area
19 A very friendly village
20 Left blank
21 Friendly people, buses to many areas
22 Not as much as we used to
23 The village as a whole. Residents are very friendly. From someone from elsewhere, I feel I have been accepted as a local and feel
very much at home
24 The people & community spirit
25 We still have a post office. Good bus service.
26 Excellent school….
27 Left blank
28 Good neighbours
29 Since I moved into Burradon… I have been welcomed into the community & I have felt more at home here than anywhere else I have lived before
30 People are nice & friendly
31 Left blank
32 I love living on Cheviot Gr. All neighbours are friendly and helpful. It is very near to open fields & I enjoy walking round the area.
33 …'Friends are here. Lunch club'.
34 n/a
35 Left blank
36 quiet, community spirit. Tidy
37 the village life & friendly people. Also has a fairly good range of services.
38 warm friendly people. Lovely area.
39 I don't really know, but I've lived here now for about 40 years and there can't be that much wrong with it.
40 not a lot'
41 it is in easy reach of Newcastle.
42 (family all from here)
43 quiet and peaceful.
44 Friendly. No hassle.
45 friendly people.
46 lived here all my life.
47 (liked it before, but not now)
48 the new school, the lake and the park. Friendly people who work in the area such as the postmaster and people who work in the local shops.
49 closeness to local amenities / transport links. New sporting facilities / school.
50 people friendly. Community spirit. Progress that has been made.
51 Left blank
52 plenty of shops. Club. Bars.
53 friendliness
54 not a lot…..
55 friendly. Quiet at times. Local pubs and shops. Post office, pharmacy, allotment(?)
56
57 it always was a good village, and we are getting iback to what it was.
58 the new park and the new sitting area. And how much cleaner Burradon is being kept.
59 friendly people. Events at Kirkdale court.
60 I like my bungalow and where it is. …. Love my neighbours.
61 I still look at Burradon as being a village. Everyone is still so friendly.
62 The people in the main are very friendly.
63 Small ex pit village and would like it to retain friendliness that prevailed. Pit wheel monument identifies heritage. Church of the good shepherd.
Social club. Burradon Farm Towers - historical name plate.
64 … It also still feels quite safe. It is also quite friendly and pleasant. The regeneration of the pit heap has been good. It is beautiful & wild.
That’s my favourite place.
65 Village life…. Majority of people are friendly.
66 The new park & school are a great improvement
67 The small village community with good neighbours.
68 The laid back village type atmosphere around the area.
69 Good local bus service
70 Friendly
71 Quiet, friendly, mainly tidy.
72 Very quiet, good neighbours, children get on well together. Community must be maintained. Good efforts.
73 Sports facilities. Public houses.

Analysis
33 cite friendliness or community spirit as what they like about B & C. This was really striking in analysing results and matches my own experience.
Others (8) say similar warm things such as 'it's home / its my home / lived here all my life, friends are here
2 like flower beds
Survey for older people, but several younger people completed it too.(7) Of these, 4 mentioned new school and / or new park, which seemed very high.
2 mentioned PfP's Kirkdale Court & lunch club.

BURRADON JUNIORS ON THE MARCH

2008-10-06T12:18:00.002+01:00

The summer of 2008 has been a particularly busy period for Burradon Juniors with the Family Funday, tournaments and trials.

The players, coaches and parents were still able to summon the energy for one final event, the Burradon Junior’s Inaugural Sponsored Walk to raise money for the Club which will be used to for the benefit of the teams.

The turnout was excellent and everyone who attended joined in with the spirit of the event and it was extremely pleasing to watch all the players from the various teams mixing together.

Thankfully, there were no incidents or injuries although there were a few bruised egos following the players versus parents match.

Burradon Juniors are constantly searching for sponsors or donations. Anyone wishing to sponsor a team or donate funds to the Club is requested to contact Louise Snaith on 07957-205569.

The community is extremely proud of Burradon Juniors and the opportunities the club provides to the young people in the village. The management committee and team managers devote significant amounts of time raising funds, coaching players and attending matches at weekends and their efforts are genuinely appreciated.

THE BURRADON AND CAMPERDOWN FORUM FUTURE MEETINGS

2008-09-18T14:40:00.007+01:00

7 October 2008 Ideas to Commemorate The 150 Year Anniversary of the 1860 Mining Disaster. We would appreciate the attendance of any former miners or their families.

4 November 2008 Ideas to Further Improve the Village and Local Amenities

2 December 2008 No Meeting

6 January 2009 No Meeting

The venue for the meetings is the T H Carr Lounge, Camperdown Social Club. The meetings start at 7.00pm prompt. All residents are welcome to attend the meetings to raise issues which affect the local community.

Newcastle United Legend Opens Burradon Juniors Family Funday

2008-09-18T14:40:00.002+01:00

Former Newcastle United player Peter Beardsley opened Burradon Juniors Annual Family Funday to the delight of the players and local residents.

Peter reminded the players of the importance of playing and enjoying the sport and recalled his childhood and time he started to play football. Peter was extremely impressed with the facilities at Burradon Recreation Ground and he commended Burradon Juniors for organising an impressive tournament.

Peter signed autographs for players and parents and posed for photographs. Burradon Juniors are extremely grateful to Peter for attending the event considering he was due to fly out for his holiday on the same day.

There was a wide range of activities arranged including a fun fair, Punch & Judy, magician and an under 9s seven a side tournament which was won by Longhouton Juniors.

The event raised £500 for Burradon Juniors and the funds will be used to purchase strips and equipment for the teams.

A special mention to ward Councillor Jim Allan for arranging for Peter Beardsley to open the event.

Local Artist Donates Painting of Burradon Colliery To the Local School

2008-09-13T23:50:00.006+01:00

Paul Allan, local artist who was born and bred in Burradon generously donated a watercolour of the former colliery to Burradon Primary School.

Paul attended the opening of the school nature garden and officially handed over the watercolour to Mr Gilfillan and Elected Mayor, John Harrison after the ceremony.

Burradon Primary School is developing a collection of artefacts relating to the local history of the village, the restored scroll to the victims of the mining disaster, the roll of the men from the village who perished in the Great War and the original stone from the old school.

The school has demonstrated its important role to preserving local heritage and the items are used in lessons to remind the local children of the history of the village which helps to preserve traditions of the Burradon & Camperdown.

Paul’s father Ken worked at Burradon Colliery and he has fond memories of his childhood growing up in the village and particularly his adventures playing at the colliery with his friends.

Although, Paul moved to Cramlington, he still has family living in the village and is a regular visitor to the area.

Paul is hoping to work with the Burradon & Camperdown Forum and the school with a project to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Burradon Mining Disaster

Mayor Opens Burradon Primary School Nature Garden

2008-09-13T23:02:00.017+01:00

North Tyneside Council’s elected Mayor John Harrison conducted the official opening of Burradon Primary School’s new nature garden.

The specially designed area is located in a woodland within the school grounds and includes Bat and badger boxes, rock and wood piles, bird nesting boxes and a pond. An area is to remain uncultivated to encourage insects and butterflies to colonise the nature garden.

The nature garden will be an outdoor classroom and provide the children with an opportunity to observe and investigate nature and they will be able to write and sketch the landscape.

Alistair Gilfillan, Headmaster said, “The outdoor area gives the school a tremendous opportunity to explore nature and wildlife in a completely natural setting. We all share a great belief in the value and importance of conservation and caring about the environment. Children are the adults of the future and hopefully will learn valuable lessons from their studies.

Elected Mayor John Harrison added, “ We want every child in North Tyneside to enjoy learning and this unique setting will allow the pupils to do that”.

A plaque in memory to the late Brian Kindred was also unveiled. Robert Kindred (Brian’s son) attended the ceremony and said, “children were extremely important to my father and he would have been proud to be associated with the school nature garden”.

The woodland area was funded with contributions from The Mayor’s Wellbeing Fund, Places for People and the Burradon & Camperdown Forum

Mr Gilfillan

2008-09-12T14:23:00.002+01:00

We are delighted to announce that the stories of Mr Gilfillan’s demise are premature.

Mr Gilfillan is suffering from a small medical problem and we are assured that the condition is not serious and it is anticipated that he will be returning to work in the near future.

The amount of concern for Mr Gilfillan’s welfare reflects the community’s regard for him and the appreciation for all his effort and commitment to the welfare children of the village since his appointment as headmaster in 1999.

Mr Gilfillan, together with his team of dedicated teachers and staff have transformed the education of the children and reversed years of decline. Although the new school facility has enabled the teachers to improve the standards, it is the expectation that all children realise their full potential which has enabled the school to build a reputation for education excellence.

The community is indebted to Mr Gilfillan and his staff, as the improvements in the academic results has stemmed the flow of parents placing their children in other schools in the area. The school was considered for closure in 1995 due to its poor achievement record and the improvements in recent years is a remarkable achievement.

Burradon Primary School has safeguarded the future of the village.

Parents should also be reassured that the children are in the capable hands of Ms Hunter, Deputy Headmistress and we are sure that the management of the school will continue uninterrupted.