Hurrah, hurrah, Durham’s annual book festival returns, celebrating the power of the written word. Produced by New Writing North, the Durham County Council event features an exclusive dramatic reading of Pat Barker’s new novel The Voyage Home in association with Live Theatre. The Booker Prize winning Durham novelist will also be in conversation with writer Adelle Stripe.

Sunderland-born Terry Deary is behind the global-hit Horrible Histories, selling over 38 million books in 45 languages. He’ll be presenting his first book for adults, A History of Britain in Ten Enemies. This home-grown talent stars alongside blockbuster American authors Jodi Picoult and Rebecca F. Kuang.

Jodi Picoult has written 30 books and sold 40 million copies. She’ll discuss her latest historical novel, By Any Other Name. On to Yellowface which was an instant #1 Sunday Times bestseller and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick. Rebecca F. Kuang discusses her page-turning phenomenon that follows the misadventures of failed novelist June Hayward.

Rebecca Wilkie, Durham Book Festival Director at New Writing North, said: “Our flagship book festival builds on a remarkable legacy. 2024 features a new commission to tell new narratives of our region, and welcomes a local literary icon, Pat Barker, with the premiere of a commission inspired by her new book. Durham is leading on a new era of creativity for the North East.”

The author of The Damned Utd, Yorkshire-born David Peace, will talk about Munichs: A Novel. The New York Times praised Peace for writing “the boldest and most original British fiction of his generation.” Here, he tells the story of the crash and aftermath of Flight 609 carrying the young Manchester United team.

The festival also showcases a new commission, North East Now, which tasked 12 northern writers to pen new narratives for the North East to mark devolution. Three of the writers – Arlen Pettitt, Louise Powell, and Richard Benson – will take part in a discussion exploring their themes that challenge northern stereotypes.

Another Booker Prize-winning author, Alan Hollinghurst, will discuss his astonishing first novel in over a decade – Our Evenings, a dark, luminous, and wickedly funny portrait of modern England. And Tracy Chevalier, of Girl with a Pearl Earring fame, brings her Venetian historical novel, The Glassmaker.

For the first time, Durham Book Festival will host the renowned Forward Prizes for Poetry. An unmissable fixture on the literary calendar, twenty outstanding poets will perform their work at an awards ceremony hosted by poet and performer Joelle Taylor, featuring BBC Radio 6 Music’s Craig Charles. Poetry lovers can also enjoy an evening with the former National Poet for Scotland, Jackie Kay, with her new poetry collection, May Day. The poet-turned-novelist Andrew McMillan will explore the theme ‘writing the north’ with fellow novelist Tawseef Khan.

The above is just a short taster, there are ‘many and varied’ authors at the Durham Book Festival, indeed, a feast, and also a screening of a documentary on the life of the working-class photographer, Tish Murtha, and a talk on capturing working-class lives with writer Tom Newlands and documentarian Jen Corcoran. And yes, I am slightly out of breath as I list so many treats, when, frankly, I am merely skimming the surface. Do go, it all sounds fabulous.

Founded in 1990, Durham Book Festival is a Durham County Council event produced by New Writing North, with support from Durham University and Arts Council England. To book, visit www.durhambookfestival.com

I’m constantly looking out for games to occupy my young grandkids. My challenge is finding ones they’ll enjoy but which I still have at least a chance of winning. Frankly this rules out most video games and quite a few board games these days. However I’ve just struck lucky with Skullduggery from Cheatwell.

The first big bonus is it comes in a small box – easy to pack for holiday trips and only contributes minimally to the growing toy mountain which used to be my lounge.

It’s basically a card and tokens game which has elements of poker or rummy but is a lot more fun. You probably guessed from the title, it’s based on pirates and the object is to display the highest number, using your four number cards, by the end of the game, either by rearranging your own cards or helping yourself to your neighbours’ cards. A photographic memory is definitely an advantage.

You each have four cards with a single number, arranged in a row. The numbers, 3, 5, 2 and 9, for example, are counted as 3,529. So you can see that having the largest number on your far left card gives the best chance of winning.

To win, you must peek at your own and your opponents’ cards, but only when allowed, and memorise them. Then you must try to swap the positions of your own cards, or swap your cards with your opponents’ cards. All these actions require picking up a card from the central pile and either keeping it or discarding it. Discarding a card triggers the ‘swap’ or ‘peek’ actions named on each card. Just to make things even more interesting each player also has two tokens which display more actions, and the players can use these strategically to get the cards they want.

Recommended age range is 8+ years. Having road-tested this with my 8-year old grandson, he struggled a little at first, but with help from me and his father, he soon picked up the rules. I wouldn’t recommend it for younger children. I enjoyed it (and not just because I won) – it really keeps you on your toes and is actually a good game for older adults who are keen to exercise their memory.

At just £10 RRP (on special offer at £8.39 from Toystreet.co.uk at the moment) this is a fun holiday game.

By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q

http://faitobooks.co.uk

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.

We all squashed into St Mary’s on Friday evening, 2nd of August to enjoy perhaps our last Thirsk concert by Matthew Atherton as he is transferring to Lancashire and a Head of Music position, so it was a bitter sweet evening. Tears were shed at the music, and emotion, at least by me, though I saw many tissues mopping faces, and trust me, it wasn’t just the somewhat sweaty (sorry to be basic) heat. Like true pusher and shovers Dick and I had threaded through the crowds to join a friend in a pew in a direct line with the open Church doors. Ah, sweet draught. I sat next to the aisle as I needed to be popping up and down to take photos throughout.

Matthew introduced the evening as only he can, and had us all doubled up laughing. He looked extremely natty in evening suit (Lord, he must have been hot) and was to divide his time between organ and piano, with the fabulous Will Hill turning the pages for him on each instrument. How on earth Will could follow the often complex music I do not know, but our Will, who is Grade 5 on piano, didn’t put a foot wrong.

What’s more the St Mary’s ‘set’ would give any theatre a good run for its money, for it has monitors attached to the upright of the arches, so everyone can see close ups, and the actual arches have colour changes throughout, all of which added to a simply wonderful concert.

So, the scene set, introductions done, laughter abating, let’s get on with the concert.

Matthew alternated between the newly cleaned and polished organ with pipes just longing to give forth, and the piano. So off we went, with Serenade for Organ, and the ever popular All Creatures Great and Small. The piano was gagging for a go and so the programme continued, piece after piece, all brilliantly played, tissues out at such excellence, and perhaps the thought: would Matthew come again to Thirsk, and would honey still be for tea. To totally misquote Rupert Brooke.

Interspersed with Matthew’s witty explanations, we reached Fantasie in F Minor K608 which sped us into the interval with cool, oh yes, cool drinks and light refreshments, and much talk. We were told a little about Holy Rood House, which offers residential stays and day visits, pastoral support, counselling and pyschotherapy and much more. By the way, next door to Holy Rood House, is Mrs Pumfrey’s house (All Creatures Great and Small – remember Tricky Woo and his digestive problems?!) Well, was, as it is now part of Holy Rood House’s spiritual and creative community. In fact ‘Mrs Pumfrey’ was Mrs Warner but whisper it.

So on we went, with absolutely no digestive problems after our repast, and Matthew at last jacketless, ( He must have been baking), with the Finale from Sonata No 1 in D Minor, then Impromptu in Gb, Op 90, and then… oh yes, indeedy… the piece that Matthew he told me he would put in for me (bet he says that to all the girls) Promenade (Walking the dog) by George Gershwin which I absolutely love, and which always makes me laugh, because it seems to me that the little bit at the end emulates a whoopsie. Yes, OK, I know that’s not funny or nice, as my mother would have said. But … it’s what I think, so very there.

The Organist Entertains arranged by Matthew was a wonder to behold. How can he get his feet and hands to do something independently of the others, or so it seems to me? I can’t even pat my head and rub my stomach as we were told to do at schoo though why, I can’t remember, but there is our wonder boy, flashing about with the hands and feet and producing miracles. Finally as the evening passed we sang a hymn together We sing a Love that Sets all People Free. Voices quavering somewhat with the emotion of the evening. Surely it couldn’t all end here? Then, Matthew told us, he had one more treat for us.

“Kiss the Rain” by Yiruma (Lee Ru-Ma) on piano. ‘I was introduced to the piece around 2016 by one of my former pupils at Aysgarth. This boy (he was 13 at the time and is probably 20 now) has Nystagmus condition, which effects the vision. He was unable to see the music notes so I helped teach him to play this piece from memory, which he did and he performed it beautifully to the whole school and parents.‘ Matthew also told us that this boy went on to play piano by memory from that moment on. Now, that’s what I call an amazing teacher.

Of course, I was in tears listening to Kiss the Rain. It is so exquisite, and beautifully played. Oh heavens, we will miss Matthew so much. He has transformed Thirsk into a centre for music, and with it, St Mary’s Church. Thank you, thank you, not only for an amazingly eclectic concert, but all you have given us: your time, talent, laughter and enthusiasm.

Isn’t it amazing how we can dive into the digital world and play games with just a few clicks? But let’s be honest, nothing beats the buzz of playing alongside real people. That’s where live casinos come into play—bringing the vibrant casino vibe right to our screens through a live video connection. In this brief guide, I’m going to share why live casinos are still the life of the party and what sets them apart from your standard online gaming session.

Why Live Casinos Are Just More Interesting

Sure, tapping away on our devices is super convenient, but live casinos have that extra sprinkle of magic. Here’s the scoop:

• Real Human Dealers: Nothing says authentic like interacting with actual dealers. It adds a layer of trust and makes you feel like you’re in good hands.

• Chit-Chat and Chuckles: Banter with the dealer and fellow players turns a regular game into a social shindig!

• A Feast for the Eyes and Ears: The visuals and audio in live casinos are a notch above, making every game a treat.

• Safety First: With strict regulations in place, you can bet with peace of mind knowing everything’s on the up-and-up.

So, live casinos are your go-to spot if you’re after a mix of camaraderie, quality entertainment, and security.

The Tech Behind the Magic

Live casinos are also available online and have come a long way since their pixelated beginnings. Nowadays, it’s like stepping into a high-definition movie:

• Crystal Clear Streams: Thanks to zippy internet and tech advancements, you won’t miss a beat with the sharp visuals and smooth gameplay.

• Lights, Camera, Action: Multiple camera angles and professional lighting mean you’re always in the centreof the action.

• Community Vibes: Engage in lively chats that make every dice roll or card turn more interesting.

• Virtual Reality Adventures: Some venues are dabbling in VR to up the ante, making you feel like you’ve teleported straight to Vegas.

And as tech continues to evolve, who knows? We might soon chat with AI dealers or explore even more immersive virtual worlds.

The Human Touch in Live Casinos

What really makes live casinos stand out is the human element. Playing with real folks adds an irreplaceable warmth and sociability to the experience.

Dealers in live casinos aren’t just experts at the game; they’re the party hosts, welcoming you with open arms and guiding newbies through the ropes. A little chit-chat here, a pro tip there, and voila—you’re part of the casino family.

Thanks to the chat feature, players can mingle, too. It’s like having a virtual casino floor where friendships bloom, strategies are swapped, and friendly rivalries ignite.

Above all, live casinos craft a great atmosphere, mimicking the pulse-pounding ambiance of a brick-and-mortar establishment.

Feeling Like You’re There Without Leaving Home

Live casinos are wizards at conjuring the illusion of a real-life casino within your four walls.

The stellar video and audio quality transport you straight to the heart of the action. The set designs are so authentic that you might just reach out to touch the velvet of the tables.

Engaging with dealers and players isn’t just about the game—it’s about creating memorable moments and sharing the thrill of each win or the commiseration of a close call.

With an array of games to choose from, everyone can find their niche, adding to the authenticity of the whole experience.

Picking Your Virtual Casino Playground: 6 Tips for Gamers

Choosing the perfect live casino platform can be a bit daunting, but fear not—I’ve got some pointers to help you land the best seat in the house:

1. Game Galore: Look for a venue that offers a variety of games to keep things spicy.

2. Dealer Charm: Friendly and knowledgeable dealers can make all the difference.

3. HD Quality: Crisp video and sound quality are non-negotiable for a realistic experience.

4. Sweet Deals: Bonuses and promotions can add value to your gaming adventures.

5. Play On the Go: A mobile-friendly platform lets you play wherever you roam.

6. Trust and Fair Play: A licensed venue ensures fair play and secures your hard-earned cash.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find a live casino that’s both entertaining and reliable.

Wrapping It Up

Live casinos are the ultimate blend of technology and tradition, offering a slice of the casino pie complete with live dealers and players, all from the comfort of your couch. As we look forward to even more technological wonders, remember to consider the variety of games, the charisma of the dealers, streaming quality, mobile compatibility, and the platform’s credibility when choosing your live casino. It’s all about getting that full-fledged casino experience without stepping outside—how cool is that?

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A few years ago, three grannies, of which I am one, ran a small charity: Words for the Wounded raising money for wounded veterans through writing courses, day literary festivals and competitions. I also have two dogs and was glued to the The Supervet and am full of admiration for Noel’s innovative surgical procedures which enhance his patients’ lives. I emailed him at Fitzpatrick Referrals, not really expecting a reply, asking if he was working in conjunction with others on similar innovative orthopaedics for guys such as those we helped. I did indeed receive a positive reply. How? When he is so very busy. But that is the humanity of the man.

Luckily, Keira & Me fell into my hands, newly published. Is it for children or adults? It is both, in that it is an ode to Keira, Noel’s beloved canine companion. But more than that, it is about unconditional love in all its forms, and particularly that of dog and owner. But again, it is more than that… I believe it is about wisdom… A lesson for living one’s life. But that’s not quite right… Or quite all… Written in Noel’s glorious and profound style it is a journey about friendship and unconditional love. But also, it’s a journey from dark to light… from doubt to understanding… from weakness to strength, portrayed in brief questions and answers. Though even that is wrong… Or insufficient.

I think perhaps it is also the flow of Noel’s thoughts and recollections about his world and experiences with wise responses from beloved Kiera who left this life after almost 14 years. It is raw in its grief, but warm in all that Keira brought. So, though I whitter on, let’s face it, YES, it is really about love, unconditional love and all that it brings. I wept. Most do, but I also: thought, pondered, remembered, learned… when perhaps I thought I was all knowing. Finally it is brave, a stripping away of pretence and ego in the public eye.

It is, frankly, a masterpiece, accompanied at the highest level by empathetic illustrations from Laura McKendry. Her illustrations are totally in tune, and quite wonderful.

I will be giving this to grandchildren for Christmas. They will grow up the wiser for it, and hand it down to their children.

Kiera & Me by hugely successful bestselling author (and humanitarianor so I believe) Noel Fitzpatrick available here.

Noel Fitzpatrick is a world-renowned neuro-orthopaedic veterinary surgeon, the founder of Fitzpatrick Referrals in Surrey, which you will know from the Channel 4 TV show: The Supervet. He is a No.1 bestselling author, and recognised worldwide for his surgical solutions for animals. You can follow him on Facebook and Instagram: Twitter: @ ProfNoelFitz. Go on, he’d love to hear from you.

Laura McKendry is an artist illustrator whose work truly combines expressive brushstrokes and decisively drawn lines to create images that convey a deep human connection with the natural world. Her original paintings are held in international private collections. She teaches illustration short courses at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. You can find Laura on her website.www.birdandbeast.co.uk and Instagram@birdandbeast_art.

Every so often, though Thirsk knows not when, the knitters blow in before we are awake, much as Mary Poppins was want to do.

They are enjoyed from here to Japan, and Australia. ‘Oh bliss,’ is the cry. We recognise Noddy, Big Ears and their car. What others festoon the bollards?

This fellow needs no introduction. And what about the dastardly Dennis the Menace? Oh yes, I remember the comics.

Not to mention the old favourites, The Teddy Bears picnic, most apt given the time of year.

These are just a taster. Aren’t we lucky to live in Thirsk? Thank you, thank you Yarnbombers.

Organist Matthew Atherton and the Strings Attached Ensemble absolutely gave their all in a concert that caused the hairs to stand on the back of the neck, and tears were close at the beauty of the performance.

But first things first, as my mother would say – rather too often and frequently with ‘that look’ : the concert was to celebrate the recent refubishment of St Mary’s organ by Peter Wood & Son Ltd, Organ Builders, Harrogate. The great organ pipework was cleaned for the first time since 1964. One can only image the relief of said organ! And trust me, it certainly sounded in fine fettle, but of course it did have Matthew Atherton, the superb and renowned organist playing. Not only that, he was in the company of the Strings Attached Ensemble, an ensemble with around twenty local players. Julie Bates tells me: ‘Pauline Hagen and I created the Ensemble about nine years ago, and as Trevor Wilson is incredbly talented, and had taught us music at school, we felt he would be the perfect person to be our Musical Director. To our relief he agreed, and indeed he has been wonderful and the ensemble has gone from strength to strength.‘

Library image of the recent Strings Attached Ensemble at The Gathering in the Garden, Thirsk Hall in aid of Herriot Hospice Homecare. The evening raised over £5000 for the Hospice.

Matthew Atherton was Director of Music at Aysgarth School but a couple of years ago he took a mid-life break, to commit to the freedom to develop his extraordinary talents as an organist, pianist and composer. We knew we wouldn’t have him forever in Thirsk, but … oh … the time has come and in September he will be taking up a Head of Music post near Clitheroe in Lancashire. So with this in mind, the combined concert with Matthew and the Ensemble was particularly special..

Now, on to the memorable moments of the concert, which stormed off with the dramatic Spitfire Prelude by William Walton arr. by Matthew. This was enjoyed by everyone, and as Christine Humphries said, ‘How could it be bettered?’ Trust me, it could…

Percy Grainger’s English Country Gardens, arranged by Trevor was tip top, to be followed by Gabriel’s Oboe, always one to wring the withers, though this time no oboe but organ by Matthew and cello – beautifully played by Victoria Storer. The Ensemble swished into the Concerto in G major for two mandolins (Vivaldi) with soloists, Simon Rheinberg and Richard Nevile interpreting it to perfection. As you can see the programme was eclectic, and let’s face it, there is something special about this glorious music being performed in the perfection of St Mary’s of Thirsk.

Matthew interwove the music with snippets of history he had researched in Northallerton Archive Office, and which he delivered, of course, with his usual humour (heavens – and I know I go on – but how we will miss him). By the way, see Julie Bates, the blonde bombshell and leader of the Ensemble, at the ready with her violin.

On and on the concert went, going from March from Scipio by Handel, to Suite Gothique by Boellmann. After the interval it was straight into Fawlty Towers by Dennis Wilson (don’t mention the War), the Teddy Bears Picnic by Bratton, then the Dance Suite by Rawsthorne to name just some, until climaxing with The Dambusters March by Eric Coates (I told you it was eclectic) Ah, feel those hairs on the back of the neck.

Finally the audience was asked to stand to sing Jerusalem, which, Matthew said, would suggest a standing ovation for the musicians. Indeed, but that would have happened anyway, so very there. The roof of St Mary’s stayed on, but surely only just. Everyone was so very very proud of Thirsk’s brilliant musicians. But before I end, I simply have to say, and let’s forget the waistlines: the cakes were delicious and much appreciated by the enthusiastic audience. Such a lovely lovely occasion.

Ah, just a thought: if anyone is interested in joining the Ensemble, do contact Julie through their website. Then everyone can come along and give you a standing ovation. By the Way, Matthew Atherton is giving a Piano and Organ Concert at St Mary’s on 2nd August at 7.pm in support of the work of Holy Rood House, Sowerby. Suggested donation of £10, including refreshments.