Good morning, Durham! There is lots going on in business, culture, history and transport in the county this week.

In today’s newsletter:

• Durham bus station unveiled

• Durham’s mustard legacy revived

• Raby Castle renaissance

• Durham tech used in Ukraine

• Kynren returns

• And much more!

Let’s get to it.

— Stephen

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Durham welcomes new bus station

It's here! Durham's new, modern bus station was unveiled on Sunday. Following significant redevelopment, the hub features enhanced facilities and improved safety, marking a milestone in Durham's sustainable transport journey. Join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter! Read more.

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THE DIGEST

Durham's mustard legacy revived

Did you know mustard has deep roots in Durham? Matthew Henderson, a freelance product development expert, is reviving Durham's mustard heritage in collaboration with Visit County Durham and a dedicated team. This initiative aims to blend Durham's rich mustard history with contemporary tastes. Stay tuned for more on this local treasure!

Radiation-detecting dogs using Durham technology aid Ukrainian troops

Sedgefield-based Kromek's radiation detectors, used by specially trained dogs, are providing crucial early warnings against nuclear threats in Ukraine. The initiative protects both soldiers and dogs, with the detectors alerting handlers instantly at the slightest detection of radiation. This innovative technology exemplifies Durham's contribution to global safety and the novel use of Kromek's technology in conflict zones. Read more.

Raby Castle's remarkable renaissance: The Rising opens this spring

Spring 2024 at Raby Castle is set to be a landmark moment with the launch of 'The Rising', an initiative blending the castle's storied past with a contemporary vision. Encompassing the rejuvenation of three heritage buildings and the creation of two new structures, this project is a tribute to the estate's history and a step towards sustainable, modern living.

The redesigned walled garden, a collaborative effort with garden designer Luciano Giubbilei, promises to be a tranquil haven for visitors. The transformation extends to the Coach House and Stables, preserving their 18th-century charm while showcasing local crafts, and the innovative repurposing of the Riding School into a versatile event space. Find out more.

WEATHER

Durham's weather is playing it mild this week – quite the treat for January! With temperatures gently teasing the winter chill, we're in for some pleasantly milder days for this time of year.

Monday, 8th: Max Temp: 5°C 🌡️ Min Temp: 0°C | 🌥️ Cloudy

Tuesday, 9th: Max Temp: 5°C 🌡️ Min Temp: 2°C | 🌥️ ➡️ 🌤️ Cloudy changing to sunny intervals by lunchtime

Wednesday, 10th: Max Temp: 7°C 🌡️ Min Temp: 5°C | ☁️ Overcast

Thursday, 11th: Max Temp: 7°C 🌡️ Min Temp: 4°C | ☁️ Overcast

Friday, 12th: Max Temp: 6°C 🌡️ Min Temp: 1°C | ☁️ Overcast

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Kynren returns with summer schedule

Bishop Auckland welcomes back the breathtaking Kynren this summer, set against the stunning backdrop of Auckland Castle. The historic extravaganza, known for its retelling of 2,000 years of British history, returns with eight spectacular shows between 27 July and 14 September 2024.

Founded by the charity 11Arches and philanthropist Jonathan Ruffer, Kynren first captured imaginations in 2016. Now in its 2024 season, expect a 90-minute journey through time, from dusk to darkness, on a 7.5-acre outdoor stage.

A thousand volunteers bring to life epic tales, enthralling a global audience. After the challenging times of 2020, Kynren's return last year saw a 35% spike in ticket sales and critical acclaim, including from TV's Robson Green.

Tickets are already up for grabs, with an additional date added to meet demand. For more details and ticket information, visit www.11arches.com/tickets/kynren.

Explore the grandeur of Durham Castle: Guided tours begin

Great news for the history buffs (me) among us. Durham Castle has reopened its doors for guided tours, starting on Sunday, 7 January. Immerse yourself in the castle's history with a guided tour, offering a unique glimpse into centuries past.

You can easily book your tour experience either on the day at the Palace Green Library reception or conveniently online via Eventbrite. Please visit the Things To Do website for more details and keep in mind that the tour schedules might vary.

Artistic talent shines at Bishop Auckland Town Hall's Open Art exhibition 🎨

Immerse yourself in a celebration of creativity and artistry at the Open Art Exhibition, currently underway at the Bishop Auckland Town Hall. This exhibition, a showcase of County Durham's vibrant art scene, features an impressive array of 186 artworks, crafted by 88 adult and 11 young artists. The collection spans a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, textiles, sculpture, digital art, and photography, offering something for every art enthusiast. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, Monday to Saturday.

DURHAM BUSINESS NEWS

Navigating retail revival in Durham: Insights from local expert

We delve into the expert insights of Graham Soult, a leading retail specialist and the chairman of Durham Business Club, in a recent conversation on the Northern Business Podcast.

He sheds light on the evolving dynamics of Durham's retail landscape. From the legacy of Woolworths to the current economic influences shaping consumer behaviour, Soult's perspective offers a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities facing our local high streets. Read more.

JDR Cables fuels job security and growth in Hartlepool

Subsea cable manufacturer, JDR Cables, has strengthened Hartlepool's renewable energy sector by extending contracts with PD Ports for 15 years, securing 280 jobs. The company's £3m investment in a new vertical lay-up machine at the Port of Hartlepool enhances its manufacturing capabilities, including the production of advanced cables for wind applications. A great move for the local and national offshore wind manufacturing industry. Read more.

Darlington Jobs Fair returns: A hub of opportunities

Mark your calendars for the Darlington Jobs Fair, returning on 8 February at the Dolphin Centre. This free event, aligning with National Apprenticeship Week, promises a gathering of approximately 100 exhibitors, spanning sectors like healthcare, engineering, retail, and more. It's an ideal platform for job seekers, career changers, and soon-to-be graduates to connect with potential employers. More details.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

• Queen by Candlelight - Durham Cathedral - 11th, 12th and 13th, 7:45pm (tickets)

• Mark Morriss - Old Cinema Laundrette - Friday 12th, 7:45pm (tickets)

• THR33 - Westlife / Boyzone / Take That - Peterlee Central Club - Saturday 13th, 6pm (tickets)

• Live at Stack - Stack Seaburn - Saturday 13th, 7pm (tickets)

• Project Starfish - The High Crown - Saturday 13th, 8:30pm (more info)

• Marcus Black - Live at The Flass - Saturday 13th, 8:30pm (more info)

THANKS!

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