BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Alan Dotchin Blog - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Alan Dotchin Blog X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Alan Dotchin Blog REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20250101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260425T103000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260425T120000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260410T144627Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260426T064615Z UID:36299-1777113000-1777118400@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Step into Sunderland’s ancient past DESCRIPTION:Overview\n \n\n\n\nA fascinating talk on local archaeology\, led by Gary Bankhead from the Department of Archaeology at Durham \n\n\n\n\nStep into Sunderland’s ancient past at a fascinating talk on local archaeology\, led by Gary Bankhead from the Department of Archaeology at Durham University. Following his sell-out talk last January at Hylton Castle\, Gary returns to share the latest exciting discoveries from the River Wear. These recent findings are transforming our understanding of the city’s history—offering new insights into its past while challenging long-held assumptions about Roman activity in the area. With Roker seafront recognised as a significant site of Roman interest\, this promises to be a compelling and thought-provoking event. \nPerfect for anyone with a passion for archaeology\, local history\, or the heritage of our region—don’t miss this opportunity to uncover Sunderland’s hidden story. \nVenue: The Roker Watch House\, Pier View\, Roker\, Sunderland SR6 0PRSaturday 25th April10:30amTickets: £2 (proceeds to Sunderland Volunteer Life Brigade) Spaces are limited—be sure to secure your place! \nhttps://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/step-into-sunderlands-ancient-past-tickets-1985799290133 URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/step-into-sunderlands-ancient-past/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/sunderland-ancient-past.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260425T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260425T133000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260427T130550Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T154258Z UID:36467-1777122000-1777123800@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:The Korean Spoon DESCRIPTION:The Korean Spoon is one of Sunderland’s most interesting newer dining spots\, bringing authentic Korean flavours into the city centre and offering something refreshingly different from the usual takeaway and restaurant choices. Located on Fawcett Street in the Sunniside area\, it has quickly gained attention for its vibrant menu\, generous portions\, and relaxed atmosphere. For anyone who enjoys Korean cuisine—or for those looking to try it for the first time—it offers a welcome introduction to dishes that balance comfort food with bold flavour. \nSituated at 3 Fawcett Street in central Sunderland\, the restaurant is well placed for both daytime visitors and evening diners. Its location makes it convenient for students\, city workers\, shoppers\, and those heading into town for an evening meal. The restaurant has developed a reputation for being accessible and casual rather than overly formal\, which suits Korean dining well. Korean food is often about sharing\, comfort\, and flavour rather than fine dining ceremony\, and The Korean Spoon captures that approachable feeling. It is listed as open daily from midday until 9pm\, making it suitable for lunch\, dinner\, or a relaxed early evening meal. Business listings also show strong local ratings and consistent customer traffic\, reflecting how quickly it has established itself in the Sunderland food scene. \n  \n  URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/36467/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5352d505-0cb1-457c-b045-fa003fe5b192.avif END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260425T141500 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260425T155000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260328T214447Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260426T064622Z UID:36083-1777126500-1777132200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:A Fistful of Dollars DESCRIPTION:Clint Eastwood is the iconic Man With No Name in Sergio Leone’s seminal spaghetti Western\, as a gunslinger drifter plays off the warring Baxter and Rojo families against each other in the frontier town of San Miguel. \nSan Miguel is a one horse town that’s being pulled apart by two rival families. John Baxter\, the crooked town sheriff with a sideline in weapons smuggling\, seeks to establish his own version of law and order with support from his son\, Antonio and their gang of thugs. But the Rojo Cartel – headed up by a trio of volatile brothers: Miguel\, Ramón and Esteban – have their own ambitions for San Miguel and its strategic position on the Mexican border. \nEnter the Man with No Name: a laconic gunslinger for hire who drifts into town and\, after learning of of the Baxter-Rojo feud\, spots an opportunity. He plays the warring clans off against one another and turns their vendetta to his advantage – but the stranger’s duplicity riles both families\, and the vengeful Rojos decide to take drastic action in the battle for San Miguel. \nA Fistful of Dollars \n \nRead More URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/a-fistful-of-dollars/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/image-2.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260426T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260426T153000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260328T223350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260426T141517Z UID:36098-1777195800-1777217400@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Tynemouth Station Book Fair DESCRIPTION:Related: Family activities Book Fair Heritage Books Market \n Tynemouth Station Tynemouth NE30 4RE \n\n\nTynemouth Station Book Fair started in 1993 and is a free\, lively and friendly event held on four Sundays a year\, on the West Concourse of Tynemouth Metro Station – a beautifully-restored Victorian station. \nAround 40-50 booksellers regularly take part\, offering an eclectic range of thousands of antiquarian\, second-hand and childrens books and other printed materials. \n2026 book fair dates: \n26th April 2026 \n28th June 2026 \n16th August 2026 \n4th October 2026 \n\n\nLocation\nTynemouth Station Tynemouth NE30 4RE \nhttps://www.visitnorthtyneside.com/events/event/tynemouth-station-book-fair/ \nRead More URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/tynemouth-station-book-fair/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2d283664-7729-4414-bc31-50b60958725f-TSBF03.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260426T133000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260426T143000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260428T112251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T112844Z UID:36496-1777210200-1777213800@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Allard's Lounge DESCRIPTION:Allard’s Lounge\, situated in the heart of Tynemouth on the bustling Front Street\, has become one of the most recognisable hospitality venues along the North East coastline. Combining the atmosphere of a relaxed café\, a stylish wine bar\, and a lively restaurant\, it has developed a strong local reputation for offering quality food\, drinks\, and social experiences throughout the day and into the evening. With its prime location only a short walk from the award-winning beaches of Tynemouth and the historic Tynemouth Priory\, the venue benefits from both regular local trade and a steady flow of tourists visiting one of the region’s most attractive coastal towns. \nReview \nService charge without permission\nApr 2026 • Family\n \nThree of us went for a birthday lunch at the weekend. We shared 6 tapas the food was very good and plentiful\, although the lamb harrissa was quite hot!!\n \nThe bill was paid and a tip left on the table.\n \nWe were not happy later when we realised that a 10% service charge had been added without our agreement as well as us leaving the the tip!\n \nAbsolutely disagree with this practice definately feel the customers should be asked before a service charge is added.\n \nhttps://blog.alandotchin.com/allards-lounge/\n  URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/allards-lounge/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/allards-lounge.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260428T152000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260428T174500 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260206T231930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T185037Z UID:35838-1777389600-1777398300@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:The North DESCRIPTION:Bart Schrijver’s acclaimed drama follows former best friends and roommates Chris (Bart Harder) and Lluis (Carles Pulido)\, who meet up after a decade to hike Scotland’s West Highland Way and Cape Wrath Trail. \n\n\nHaving taken the same 350-mile walk in their youth\, the pair hope to rekindle their once-strong friendship by spending 30 days together in the majestic\, raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands. \nBut while Chris remains preoccupied with work and life back at home\, Lluis is determined to finish the trail to prove he can still do it. Amidst the sweeping landscapes\, harsh weather and chance encounters with other hikers\, the solitude and silence of the trek force the pair to confront truths about themselves and their friendship – and find out what it truly means to stand still and listen. \nShot entirely on the route of the walk\, and in chronological order\, The North is a beautiful ode to friendship and the healing power of nature. \nIt’s not only a poignant and powerful drama\, but also perhaps the definitive hiking film\, allowing us to take in the stunning majesty of the Highlands shoulder-to-shoulder with Lluis and Chris as they reconnect with each other and with nature. \nThe North URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/the-north/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Web_TheNorth.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260428T180000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260428T190000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260323T112654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T184853Z UID:36065-1777399200-1777402800@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:“Just stick to the facts”: Kate Adie’s journey DESCRIPTION:Overview\n \n\n\n\nThis talk by Rachel Webb\, will look at The Kate Adie Collection\, now held by Special Collections in the University of Sunderland Library. \n\n\n\n\nTuesday 28th April | 6pm \n“Just stick to the facts”: Kate Adie’s journey from Sunderland through global conflicts and back again. \nA talk by Rachel Webb\, Special Collections\, University of Sunderland Library. \nThis talk will look at The Kate Adie Collection\, now held by Special Collections in the University of Sunderland Library. Using images from Kate’s own collection we will follow her journey from her Sunderland childhood through her career as a reporter then as the first female Chief News Correspondent of the BBC\, reporting from some of the key events and places of the second half of the twentieth century. \nRachel Webb is the Library Archivist in Special Collection at the University of Sunderland Library. Her work involves preserving the collections and making it possible for students\, researchers\, local history and community groups and others to experience and benefit from our collections both in person and online. \nA LIVE Lit & Phil Event | FREE \n(If you would prefer to book directly over the phone\, please call the Library Desk team on 0191 232 0192 and they will be happy to help) \nKate Aide | Image provided by promoter \nhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/just-stick-to-the-facts-kate-adies-journey-tickets-1985499269764 \nRead More \n  URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/just-stick-to-the-facts-kate-adies-journey/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/p00t3x83.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260429T194500 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260429T213000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260328T214833Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T063534Z UID:36087-1777491900-1777498200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Kendal Mountain Cinematic Tour 2026 (Adventure Film Screening) DESCRIPTION:Join us for the Kendal Mountain Cinematic Tour 2026! This exclusive film-only event brings you a handpicked selection of Kendal Mountain Festival’s award-winning adventure films\, showcasing daring feats\, breathtaking locations\, and powerful stories of human resilience. \nExperience the thrill and excitement from the comfort of your seat! \nWhether you’re a seasoned adventurer\, or simply someone who loves a great story\, this is your chance to escape into the world’s most stunning landscapes and be inspired by the extraordinary journeys of those who dare to explore them. \n\nNew Terrain | 30 mins \nKrister Kopala\, a name synonymous with world-class snowboarding\, and Thea Røhme\, an aspiring mountain guide on the cusp of realizing her ambitions\, embark on a life-altering journey. Their destination: the breathtaking\, untamed wilderness of western Norway\, a land of majestic peaks and deep fjords\, where they plan to chase their individual dreams amidst the raw beauty of the mountains. Their love story is intertwined with a shared passion for the alpine world\, a bond forged in the exhilarating pursuit of extreme sports. \nHowever\, the mountains\, while offering unparalleled exhilaration\, are also unforgiving. When tragedy strikes\, they are forced to confront not only the inherent risks of their chosen lifestyle but also the delicate balance of trust that underpins their relationship. \nThis crisis compels them to confront deeply personal questions: How do you navigate the exposed terrain of both a mountain and a relationship when the one you love the most is by your side\, and at risk? How do you reconcile individual aspirations with the shared vulnerability of being in such a demanding environment? \nTheir journey becomes a testament to resilience\, a raw exploration of love\, loss\, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of nature’s formidable might. They must learn to trust not only in their own abilities but also in each other\, rediscovering the foundation of their bond amidst the stark realities of life and death in the mountains. \n\nMother River | 7 mins \nFollow Devin Brown’s quest to become the first Black woman to kayak the entire Mississippi River. \n\nPoacha’s Journal | 5 mins \nThe essence of freeriding in its purest form. With no script and no rules\, this short film follows four young riders as they explore uncharted territories on their bikes. \nThe film masterfully blends grainy 16mm film with crisp digital cinematography\, creating a vivid and artistic portrayal of the unbridled joy\, freedom\, and pure stoke that only two wheels can deliver. \n\nVautour | 30 mins \nFollowing their impressive “Fond of Font” project\, which saw them complete a remarkable 100 x 7A bouldering challenge\, the dynamic climbing duo of Seb Berthe and Hugo Parmentier are embarking on an ambitious new endeavor. \nTheir latest dream is to tackle a monumental endurance climbing challenge: ascending five major long routes in the breathtaking Verdon Gorge\, all within a single 24-hour period. This isn’t merely about achieving big numbers\, though the statistics are certainly formidable\, an astonishing 1500 metres of 8th-grade climbing awaits them. \nOn a deeper level\, their adventure is really about what makes their partnership tick: the incredible strength of their friendship and their shared dedication to ethical climbing. Their journey is set to showcase amazing human endurance\, the power of their connection\, and their commitment to the true spirit of the sport. \n\nShowing Up | 7 mins \nIn June 2024\, an adventure seeking couple set out to hike the entire length of the European Alps\, on a route called ‘Via Alpina’ – a distance of 2000 kilometers across 145\,000 meters in elevation. That’s the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest…17 times! \nWith no real mountain experience and little training\, this is as much a story of failure as it is of success! Of a life-changing adventure that tested their will and their relationship and which serves as a personal commentary on how we define success in the world we live in. \n\nPeripheral | 30 mins \nPeripheral invites audiences on a journey alongside Lucy\, a spirited individual navigating a pivotal and deeply personal transformation. \nThe film intimately portrays her struggle with the gradual deterioration of her sight\, a challenge that profoundly impacts her existence. Yet\, rather than succumbing to this adversity\, Lucy embraces her profound love for the outdoors\, transforming it into a conduit for self-discovery and resilience. \nMore than just a narrative of overcoming physical limitations\, Peripheral delves into the essence of human perception and adaptation. It’s a poignant exploration of how we find strength in vulnerability\, and how the vast\, untamed beauty of nature can illuminate our inner landscape\, guiding us through life’s most challenging transitions. \nLucy’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of the human spirit\, demonstrating that even when one sense diminishes\, others can awaken\, deepening our connection to the world around us. \nKendal Mountain Cinematic Tour 2026 (Adventure Film Screening) URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/kendal-mountain-cinematic-tour-2026-adventure-film-screening/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Web_KendalMountain2026.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260504 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20251228T114314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T094120Z UID:34841-1777593600-1777852799@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Whitby Goth Weekend DESCRIPTION:Whitby Goth Weekend is a striking and atmospheric celebration that transforms the historic seaside town into a living tableau of gothic culture. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Whitby Abbey and the North Yorkshire coastline\, the event draws thousands of visitors dressed in elaborate Victorian\, steampunk\, cyber-goth\, and dark romantic styles. Alongside the visual spectacle\, the weekend features live music\, club nights\, markets\, and social gatherings\, creating a vibrant sense of community. The contrast between the town’s traditional charm and the dramatic gothic aesthetic gives Whitby Goth Weekend its unique appeal\, making it as much a cultural experience as a visual one\, and a favourite for photographers\, music lovers\, and alternative culture enthusiasts alike. URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/whitby-goth-weekend/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/914a9948-952c-11ed-995d-0210609a3fe2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260502 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260503 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260427T094137Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260504T094127Z UID:36449-1777680000-1777766399@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Whitby Goth Weekend May 2026 DESCRIPTION:Whitby Goth Weekend is a striking and atmospheric celebration that transforms the historic seaside town into a living tableau of gothic culture. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Whitby Abbey and the North Yorkshire coastline\, the event draws thousands of visitors dressed in elaborate Victorian\, steampunk\, cyber-goth\, and dark romantic styles. Alongside the visual spectacle\, the weekend features live music\, club nights\, markets\, and social gatherings\, creating a vibrant sense of community. The contrast between the town’s traditional charm and the dramatic gothic aesthetic gives Whitby Goth Weekend its unique appeal\, making it as much a cultural experience as a visual one\, and a favourite for photographers\, music lovers\, and alternative culture enthusiasts alike. URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/whitby-goth-weekend-may-2026/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/914a9948-952c-11ed-995d-0210609a3fe2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260504T195000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260504T222000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260316T092501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T071442Z UID:36057-1777924200-1777933200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Project Hail Mary DESCRIPTION:Ryan Gosling is cast away amongst the stars in this kaleidoscopic\, (inter)stellar adaptation of Andy Weir’s bestselling sci-fi novel\, as an amnesiac science teacher wakes up alone aboard a spaceship – and forges an unexpected friendship upon first contact. \nScience teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up on a spaceship light-years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns\, he begins to uncover his mission: solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. \nHe must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction… but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone. \nBrought the screen with breathtaking scope\, kinetic energy and affecting heart by dynamic directing duo Phil Lord and Chris Miller (21 Jump Street and the producers behind the Spider-Verse franchise)\, this is stunning sci-fi spectacle on an astonishing\, intergalactic cinematic canvas with grounded\, deeply human pathos. \nRead More \nProject Hail Mary URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/project-hail-mary/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/MV5BMjQxMjQzZTMtMDNiMi00ODFiLWEyYjgtMTlkZWZhZGQ2NDE4XkEyXkFqcGdeQWFybm8@._V1_-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260516T110000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260516T170000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260515T111441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T175933Z UID:36530-1778929200-1778950800@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Party In The Park brings dinosaurs and monsters to Middlesbrough DESCRIPTION:Dinosaurs\, monster trucks and horses trained for the big screen are set to take centre stage at a major North East summer event. \n\n\nParty In The Park returns to Stewart Park in Middlesbrough from May 15 to 17 and will feature a packed line-up of entertainment for all ages. \nAmong the highlights are the internationally acclaimed OG Performance Horses\, whose trained animals have appeared in films such as Napoleon\, The Winter King\, Rings of Power\, House of the Dragon\, Game of Thrones and Snow White. \nThe horses and riders will deliver choreographed routines set to music throughout the weekend. \nRyan Crow of Crow Events said: “We have created an absolutely fantastic line-up across the weekend. \n \n“The show from OG Performance Horses is incredible and everyone is going to love the roaming dinos. \n\n \n\n“With a huge line-up of rides and a stage for live performances\, it really is going to be an experience not to be missed.” \nAlso on the bill is the UK’s most successful monster truck team – Big Pete’s Monster Trucks – who will deliver jaw-dropping displays of automotive power. \nThe Broke FX team will add to the excitement with a high-energy\, freestyle motorcross show featuring gravity-defying twists and tricks as well as backflips and mid-air whips. \nYounger visitors can look forward to a prehistoric twist\, with gentle dinosaur characters roaming the park for photos and fun. \nThe event will also pay tribute to internet sensation Ms Rachel with Ms Rachel’s What’s In the Box—an interactive show full of songs\, dancing and preschooler-friendly fun. \nA full day of live music is scheduled for Saturday\, including top tribute acts. \n \nKofi Taylor will perform the hits of Harry Styles\, while the stage will also come alive with the colour and energy of the K-Pop Universe. \n\n \n\nFood stalls will offer a variety of options throughout the weekend\, from churros and doughnuts to gourmet burgers\, loaded fries and gyros. \nEntry to the event is £2 on Friday\, with most fairground rides priced at £2 on that day. \nhttps://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/26094404.party-park-brings-dinosaurs-monsters-middlesbrough/?shem=dsdf\,sharefoc\,agadiscoversdl\,\,sh/x/discover/m1/4 \nhttps://www.facebook.com/Partyintheparkmiddlesbrough/?locale=en_GB URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/party-in-the-park-brings-dinosaurs-and-monsters-to-middlesbrough/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/20899228.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260517T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260518T160000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260223T165303Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T175902Z UID:35923-1779012000-1779120000@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Blyth Battery Goes to War DESCRIPTION:Blyth Battery Goes to War tells the story of the coastal artillery battery in Blyth and its crucial role during the Second World War. Built to defend the north-east coastline\, the battery was equipped with heavy guns to protect shipping and deter enemy naval attacks in the North Sea. During the war\, soldiers stationed there endured harsh weather and constant vigilance as they guarded against the threat of German invasion. Today\, Blyth Battery stands as a restored heritage site and museum\, preserving original gun emplacements\, underground magazines\, and wartime equipment\, offering visitors a powerful insight into Britain’s coastal defences and the experiences of those who served there. URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/blyth-battery-goes-to-war/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/b25lY21zOmVkNzU2NmYzLWNhNzUtNGVlOS04YjQwLTdiZTMyYTZjZWEzYzplZGQwZTE1Yi03ZjkyLTQwYjctODFlYy05ZTMzMzJiMzM1OWQ.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260523 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260524 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260402T132147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260524T213910Z UID:36142-1779494400-1779580799@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Ushaw Classic Car & Bike Show DESCRIPTION:The Ushaw Classic Car & Bike Show returns on Saturday 23 May 2026\, bringing a stunning display of vintage\, classic\, and modern classics to the historic grounds of Ushaw. \nEnjoy a day of motoring heritage\, live entertainment\, food and drink\, and family-friendly attractions\, all set against a beautiful heritage backdrop. \n\n\n\n\n\nEntry included with admission and membership. \n\n\n\n\n\nRegister your vehicle here! \nBook a trade stall here \nHome URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/ushaw-classic-car-bike-show/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/1-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260529T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260606T170000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260223T163635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T223327Z UID:35917-1780048800-1780765200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Festival of Transport 2026 DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Festival of Transport as part of May Half Term! \n \nAs with all daytime events\, you can use your Unlimited Pass or Friends of Beamish membership to enjoy this special event. \nFor more information keep checking back here or follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages. \nBeamish reserves the right to alter or change this programme at any point. \nFestival of Transport 2026 URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/festival-of-transport-2026/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_9685-1140x540-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260529T193000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260529T213000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20251228T152016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T223422Z UID:34908-1780083000-1780090200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Hamza Yassin – My Life Behind the Lens DESCRIPTION:“My mission is to get people outside and experience the wonder of the natural world.  Immersing yourself in nature is an effective antidote to the anxieties of modern life” – HAMZA YASSIN \nJoin wildlife cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin on a new adventure as he takes to the stage for his first nationwide theatre tour “My Life Behind the Lens”. Hamza will share his infectious sense of wonder and most precious memories both in life and in nature. \n“My Life Behind the Lens” promises to be an unforgettable show filled with adventure\, storytelling\, and stunning wonders from the natural world. \nHamza brings a fresh perspective to the natural world\, and he truly believes that by engaging people in the joy of Mother Nature and what she has to offer\, we can all gain a fresh perspective on the world around us and how we can protect it together. \nHamza shares behind the scenes tales from his epic filming expeditions across the globe. Packed with breathtaking footage\, fascinating insights\, charming personal stories\, and with a deep passion for nature\, he invites audiences of all ages to reconnect with the wild world around them.  This unique live experience offers a rare glimpse into the life and work of one of Britain’s most beloved natural history storytellers. \n“If you restore nature\, then endangered wildlife will return” – HAMZA YASSIN \n”He is delight and joy personified” – MARIAN KEYES \n”Brings a little bit of joy to us all” – GUARDIAN \n“The new voice of the natural world” – THE TELEGRAPH URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/hamza-yassin-my-life-behind-the-lens/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Screenshot-2025-12-28-at-15-18-09-Hamza-Yassin-My-Life-Behind-the-Lens-Tyne-Theatre-Opera-House.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260613T193000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T213000 DTSTAMP:20260530T073946 CREATED:20260528T075414Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T075533Z UID:36545-1781379000-1781386200@blog.alandotchin.com SUMMARY:Imogen Cooper and Paul Lewis play Mozart DESCRIPTION:Two Pianos. Four Hands. Unlimited enjoyment.\nWho’s on stage\nRounding off our classical season\, it’s of course got to be Royal Northern Sinfonia and their Music Director Dinis Sousa. We’ve also got two extremely special guests in the shape of the pianist legends that are Imogen Cooper and Paul Lewis. It’s your last chance to see Imogen in the North East as she retires at the end of this season. \nWhat they’re playing\nWe’re binging a box set of Mozart tonight. You can never have enough\, believe us. We’ve got two overtures and two piano concertos – numbers 10 and 27. \nWhat you’ll hear\n\nWolfgang Amadeus Mozart\nLa Clemenza di Tito Overture\nPiano Concerto No. 10\nDon Giovanni Overture\nPiano Concerto No. 27 \nWho’s playing it\n\nDinis Sousa conductor\nImogen Cooper piano\nPaul Lewis piano\nRoyal Northern Sinfonia \n\nWhat’s happening in the music?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTwo contrasted moods in tonight’s concert. Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 10 (for two pianos) is full of the energy of youth – graceful but with drive and verve. No. 27 came later in life. Warm\, uncomplicated and mellow\, it’s uncharacteristically straight to the point for Mozart\, with just the slightest hint of weary resignation. \nhttps://theglasshouseicm.org/whats-on/imogen-cooper-and-paul-lewis-play-mozart/ URL:https://blog.alandotchin.com/event/imogen-cooper-and-paul-lewis-play-mozart/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://blog.alandotchin.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Imogen-Cooper-1-Credit-Sussie-Ahlburg-crop-scaled-1.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR