Charity of The Year Award

It was just like old times for John Humble when he opened the new development at Middlestone Moor in Spennymoor on Thursday 6th November. John was the Director of the Association until his retirement in September 2007 and was used to organising the opening ceremonies, but on this occasion he was cutting the opening ribbon as the guest of honour.

John said, “Working as the Director of DAMHA for 17yrs was the most satisfying and fulfilling job of my career. It was a privilege to contribute to the legacy of the mining community and great to work with such marvellous people, my colleagues, the residents and other stakeholders and partners. I am proud and honoured to be asked to officially open these new homes today”.

The £964,000 development comprises 12 two bedroom bungalows built on the former site of 18 one bedroom bungalows. The scheme, which was built in two phases by Ronden Builders of Easington, has been carried out in partnership with ISOS Developments with part funding by Social Housing Grant from the Housing Corporation.

DAMHA Chief Executive Gordon Gray said, “This is the fourth project we have completed where older one bedroom homes have been demolished to make way for new two-bedroom bungalows. Along with the residents, I am delighted with the end result”. Gordon went on to say, “The original homes were visited by Queen Mary in 1913 and, although we couldn’t quite manage a Royal visitor on this occasion, we are just as pleased to welcome my old boss John to open our new development”.

Constructed to Mobility standard, the bungalows benefit from gas central heating systems and high level energy efficiency as well as car parking and Secured by Design Accreditation from Durham Constabulary.

Maureen Shaw, (75) who had moved away from Middlestone Moor to care for her mother in Crook came back to be closer to her daughter, granddaughter and son. Maureen said, “I am really happy with my bungalow and I love it here. It has everything I need”.

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