This week's Teesdale Mercury

This week’s Teesdale Mercury leads with a stark warning issued by a Teesdale headteacher to Durham County Council about the damage that could be done to communities unless rural schools are protected from closure. 

Middleton-in-Teesdale Christmas lights switch on – special report.

They’ve done it again – the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research Uk has raised £72,000 over the past year.

Veteran, 95, reveals amazing WWII story.

Barnard Castle Town Council to put on a pantomime performance.

£10,000 to create special Christmas illuminations in Barnard Castle.

Community in West Auckland rallies to bring Donna home after her tragic death on holiday.

Co-op stores give thousands of pounds to local good causes.

Middleton may soon employ a community handyman.

Appeal to fix pot hole danger road in Staindrop.

Anger at damage to trees planted by late policeman.

Pictures from Staindrop Guides, Brownies and Rainbows’ panto.

Thanks for the magic: Set designer and director Simon Pell retires from Castle Players.

Plus what’s on, farm and country, community news and three pages packed with local sport.