Heart transplant toddler lights up Durham

Good morning, Durham. Grab your cuppa and let's dive into the latest stories and treats from our charming county.

In today’s newsletter:

• Heart transplant toddler lights up Durham

• Seaham Food Festival returns

• Ushaw House on Matt Baker’s show

• The Scoop’s Durham steak guide

• And more

Let’s get to it.

— Stephen

A heartfelt Christmas miracle: Toddler heart transplant recipient lights up Durham

In a touching start to the festive season, two-year-old Beatrix Adamson-Archbold, who underwent a heart transplant after a 14-month wait, switched on the Christmas lights at Durham County Hall last week.

Beatrix's story is a testament to resilience and the power of organ donation and brought a unique joy to this year's Christmas light turn-on. Accompanied by her family and Council Chair Coun Joan Nicholson, Beatrix's involvement highlights not just her recovery journey but also underscores the importance of organ donation. The full story can be read in the Chronicle.

ON INSTAGRAM

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THE DIGEST

Seaham Food Festival Returns in 2024 🍺🍔

Circle the dates 3rd and 4th August 2024 in your calendars. The Seaham Food Festival is back with its irresistible mix of delicious food, live entertainment, and community spirit.

Last year, over 120 traders brought us an incredible range of delicious treats and we saw celebrity chefs like Eddie Scott and Syabira Yusoff dazzle us with their culinary skills, accompanied by fantastic live music and performances. Expect an even more fabulous lineup this year, alongside a host of local and regional traders showcasing the best of our culinary offerings.

Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or just in for a great day out, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Savour the best steaks in Durham

Durham City’s steak scene is on fire. From the riverside charm of Tomahawk Steakhouse at The Boat Club to the Brazilian beats of Rio Steakhouse, there's a world of flavour waiting for you.

Fancy a cosy dinner with a modern twist? 19Twenty Bar & Grill has got you covered. And for those who appreciate a classic touch, The Rib Room at Ramside Hall serves up locally sourced Durham beef aged to perfection. Don't miss out on these culinary treasures and more.

Hungry for the details? Dive into our full guide on the best steaks in Durham and discover your next dining adventure. Just click here and let your taste buds lead the way!

Ushaw Historic House stars on Matt Baker's More4 adventure

Durham's very own Ushaw Historic House recently featured on the small screen in the latest episode of Matt Baker's More4 series ‘Travels with Mum & Dad’. The County Durham jewel was visited by the beloved broadcaster and his parents during their scenic journey across the North East in the popular TV show."

The show, which follows the Durham-born presenter and his folks, has already toured iconic locations like Alnwick Castle and High Force. This episode treated viewers to Ushaw's stunning vistas and a rare glimpse into a long-hidden art collection.

WEATHER

A classic British medley this week – sun, rain, and cloud all making a guest appearance. Remember, there's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. So, whether you're basking in Monday's sunshine or dodging Tuesday's raindrops, dress smart and carry an umbrella – it's anyone's guess what you'll need!

Monday

0 🌡️ 7 | ☀️ | 💨 WNW 11 mph

Tuesday 

4 🌡️ 7 | 🌧️ | 💨 NNE 9 mph

Wednesday 

1 🌡️ 6 | ☁️ | 💨 NNE 10 mph

Thursday 

3 🌡️ 8 | ☁️ | 💨 W 10 mph

Friday 

7 🌡️ 9 | ☁️ | 💨 SW 11 mph

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Christmas Carols - Rock Choir 👩‍👦‍👦

Mark your calendars for a special evening at Ushaw House on 11th December with "Christmas Carols – Rock Choir." This festive gathering in the magnificent St Cuthbert's Chapel showcases the North East's largest choir, the Rock Choir, celebrated for their impressive vocal talent and holder of three Guinness World Records.

Expect an evening brimming with captivating carols and a festive atmosphere, all accompanied by the seasonal favourites of mulled wine and mince pies. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit. Tickets for the event can be bought here.

Eco-friendly Christmas shopping lands in Durham with Everdurance pop-up

North East's eco-specialist, has launched an 'Eco Gifts for Christmas' pop-up shop in Durham. It's a haven for sustainable shoppers, offering everything from recyclable winter clothing to eco-stationery.

Callum Mather, Everdurance's founder, highlights the shop as a blend of style and sustainability. "It's our way of showing how fashionable eco-friendly can be," he says. The venture, supported by Durham Council and Prince Bishop Place, mirrors the community's growing eco-conscious ethos. More here.

Candlelight Christmas: Love Actually, Home Alone & more 🕯️

Join Ushaw House on Friday, 15th December for "Candlelight Christmas: Love Actually, Home Alone & More." This unique event offers a relaxed evening of live classical music under the warm glow of candlelight.

Set in the grandeur of Ushaw, the performance includes classic Christmas songs like 'Let It Snow', 'All I Want For Christmas', and 'It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas'.

It's a great way to enjoy the holiday's most loved tunes and films. There are two sessions: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm and 9 pm to 10 pm. Grab your tickets for a cosy, musical celebration of the festive season.

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Scholarship opportunity for women in tech 🎓

Atom Bank and Durham University are offering scholarships for aspiring female techies. Fantastic support, mentoring, and career opportunities included. Interested? Click to learn more and apply for this game-changing programme!

Seaham Hall's MD recognised as a top UK hotelier 🏆

Big news for Seaham Hall and Durham's hospitality scene. Ross Grieve, the Managing Director of Seaham Hall, has been named among the Top 25 Brit List Hoteliers of 2023. Grieve's innovative leadership at Seaham Hall has not only transformed the resort but also helped put Durham on the map as a must-visit destination.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

El Pincho - Distant Sons - Friday 15th December, 7 pm

Fabio’s, Chester-le Street - Pearl Natasha - Friday 15th December, 6:45 pm

Fabio’s, Chester-le Street - Damian Mills - Saturday 16th December, 6:45 pm

The Knack, Seaham - The Stolen Stones (Rolling Stones tribute) - Saturday 16th December, 8 pm

El Pincho - Kimberley Heron - Sunday 17th December, 3pm

THANKS!

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