Features

No electric, no water, no heating, no toilets, no money - but still smiling

Jean James photo North Cumbrian woman Jean James is spending a month in one of the most deprived communities on Earth - South Africa's Elgin Valley. The area suffers from high unemployment, extreme poverty, alcohol and drug abuse and HIV infection rates of up to 50 per cent. She's recording her experiences and thoughts here in a heart-rending blog...

Last updated 7 February 2012
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Brampton design firm creates visual and audio feasts for kids

The wide-eyed look on the faces of small children says it all to Brampton designer Jon Stynes. He’s helped to make something which stimulates their minds. And that makes him feel good.

Last updated 7 February 2012
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What works for Sir Alex Ferguson does not necessarily work for John Clasper. Manchester United boss Sir Alex is Britain’s most famous exponent of angry management. His tirades have been dubbed ‘the hairdryer’.

Last updated 7 February 2012
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North Cumbrian man's career looking after top showbiz stars

You have to slalom through the names dropped by Thom Lester when you have a chat with him.

Last updated 2 February 2012
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Should parents be allowed to smack their children?

Controversial comments from Tottenham MP David Lammy have re-ignited the debate about whether parents should be allowed to smack their children.

Last updated 1 February 2012
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There’s still a way to go before I can tell my neighbours I’m gay and not get ‘faggot’ painted on my car

Richard Kavanagh describes himself as lucky – because he’s been beaten up only twice.

Last updated 31 January 2012
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Carlisle Sure Start scheme has helped parents in more ways than one

Claire McKenzie giggles when asked how her and husband David have changed since getting involved with their local children’s centre.

Last updated 31 January 2012
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Cumbrian man has been on top of the world - twice

If you’re going to reach the top of Everest twice, climb mountains in Greenland that no human has ever set foot on before and scale rock faces in Australia, then you need to start early.

Last updated 30 January 2012
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Swede Dreamz are made of this in rural north Cumbria

It’s a typical, pretty Cumbrian cottage; perched at the top of a hill just past Lanercost with an open fire, wooden beams and views of greenery as far as the eye can see.

Last updated 28 January 2012
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Should the benefits limit be capped?

If you’re part of what Nick Clegg called “alarm clock Britain” – the people who have to get up and go to work at least five days a week – then you might feel a certain resentment towards some benefit recipients. (67 comments)

Last updated 25 January 2012
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What is the secret Scottish bard Robert Burns's appeal?

There’s a big birthday party this weekend. A restaurant has been hired for the venue and 80 guests are expected to attend.

Last updated 24 January 2012
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Blue Peter star Helen Skelton tells of meeting with Cumbrian GP - at South Pole

A shower. At the end of another phenomenal, gruelling, record-breaking adventure, Helen Skelton is desperate for a shower. And a change of clothes.

Last updated 24 January 2012
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Cumbrian woman aiming to fast-track people into love

Keswick woman desperately seeking 15 single guys and 15 single ladies aged 24 to 35.

Last updated 23 January 2012
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Do we need tougher controls on Cumbrian scrapyards?

Churches, schools, railway lines, war memorials, even hospitals have fallen victim to thieves who callously strip cables from the ground, rip up railings or lift metals off roofs.

Last updated 20 January 2012
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Disquiet in Cumbria’s forgotten valley

Adam Naylor’s words about the tranquility of Wasdale Head are hard to hear above the growl of an electricity generator.

Last updated 18 January 2012
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Should Scotland break away from rest of UK?

The bitter war of words between Westminster and Edinburgh over Scottish independence is threatening to explode into a major constitutional crisis. (1 comment)

Last updated 18 January 2012
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Cumbria's lifeboat crews: Men used to rushing out of home at sound of a pager

The sun is shining and the water is calm. If only every day was like this for Cumbrian lifeboat crews.

Last updated 16 January 2012
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Motor Neurone Disease: Diagnosis is always a death sentence

Two place settings are laid out precisely on the breakfast bar in the sleek, brand new kitchen. Two stylish green wine glasses, two pasta bowls sitting on two dinner plates and all the cutlery.

Last updated 12 January 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk