Creative Claire cut out for new job as she opens market shop

Mum-of-six Claire Huitson says she’s finally found the job she’s cut out for after a number of false starts. Claire has just opened PartyPop Balloons & Blooms at Middlesbrough’s Dundas Indoor Market, creating balloon displays, flower arrangements and decorations to brighten up any party, celebration or corporate event. In the past the 40-year-old from Eaglescliffe…

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Dundas to host this year’s Tees Zine Fest

Middlesbrough’s Dundas Shopping Centre has been chosen to host this year’s Tees Zine Fest. It takes place on Saturday 28 March and will feature 14 stalls showcasing the work of zine makers from all over the North.  There will also be zine libraries, an art raffle and free workshops.  Co–Organiser Miki Rogers from Guisborough said zines…

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New trader hopes shoppers will marvel at his comics

Boro born and bred Paul Arbuckle says he wants to do his small bit to revive the town centre after opening a new shop. He has even paid tribute to his home town with its name – Steel River Comics – and is confident that fellow fans and collectors of all ages will visit the…

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Tracy takes inclusivity message to heart of government

Award-winning Tracy Fee is taking her message of inclusivity to the very heart of the UK government.  The founder of Hiyed Community Interest Company was a member of a small group of North East female founders of businesses who met Chancellor Rachel Reeves in Darlington in January. Later this month Tracy and the rest of…

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Lifelong friends run to fight “horrible disease”

Two lifelong friends will run side-by-side to raise money for a cause close to their hearts. Louise Matthews, 47, and Kay Watson, 48, have known each since they were three and still live in Guisborough where they grew up. They also work together at Jean’s Kitchen in Middlesbrough’s Dundas Indoor Market. Louise started there when…

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Durham Startups – Kerbside Kitchen

It was great meeting Lesley Waller – another new business – as we continue to produce videos for Durham Startups.  And the food at Kerbside Kitchen is as good as it looks.  Take my word for it!      

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Paws for thought for new shop owner

Dog-loving grandparents Mark and Debbie Jordan have a double cause for celebration. They have just opened their Paws & Treats pet shop in Middlesbrough’s Dundas Indoor Market and last month Debbie was told she was in remission after a cancer scare. “The shop is ideal for me,” said 53-year-old Debbie who has worked in retail…

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Durham Startups – Wagtail Equine Therapy

I’ve been nervous of horses ever since one didn’t take kindly to the idea of giving me a ride.  I was six or seven at the time, but haven’t forgotten.  If only I’d encountered horses like Keith, Twirl and Desmond.  Beautiful creatures and lovely natures. Another inspiring filming session at one of the most unusual…

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Durham Startups – Imaginable Me

After the Christmas break, we’re back producing videos about business start-ups in County Durham.  We visited The Glo House on a wet and miserable late Thursday afternoon, but what we found there definitely lifted our spirits.  Kaz – who featured in the video – said she burst into tears when she first viewed it.  She…

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