Why is 2025 the last Durham Lumiere festival? We chat to Helen Marraige.

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• Ushaw catering supervisor crowned Durham Tourism Superstar 2026

  A member of staff renowned for his exceptional customer service, genuine warmth and dedication to visitors has been crowned Durham Tourism Superstar 2026.

• Young People to be Celebrated at Durham Area Youth Awards & Celebration Evening

  Young people who attend Durham Area Youth sessions across County Durham hosted their own celebration event that recognised their achievements, resilience, and positive contributions to their communities on Monday 6 July at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Durham.

• Meet The Birdmen of Kynren

  Long before visitors arrive at Kynren – The Storied Lands this summer, long before the first macaw sweeps overhead or a flock of crowned cranes takes to the skies, Jimmy Robinson is already at work.

• Young West Rainton musicians hit the high notes for official opening of primary school’s new steel band practice room

  Young musicians from a County Durham primary school have been showing off their talents at the official opening of their own dedicated steel band room. West Rainton Primary School set up a steel band three years ago to give pupils the chance to learn a new musical instrument and enjoy making music together.

• Miss Rory to appear as Captain Hook in Sunderland

  Sunderland Empire and Martin Dodd for UK Productions are excited to today reveal villainous casting for The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook taking flight for Christmas 2026. Turning to the dark side and sailing the high seas is Miss Rory, reinvented as the swashbuckling, sword-sharp Captain Rorina Hook from Friday 11 December 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027.