Local Volunteers and Groups
Great Aycliffe is fortunate to be home to so many remarkable people who quietly give their time, energy, and compassion to support others in our community. This new section of our website proudly celebrates those volunteers and local groups whose kindness strengthens the place we all call home. Their efforts—whether offering a listening ear, organising activities, supporting vulnerable residents, or simply bringing people together—make a real difference every single day. We are proud to shine a light on their work, and you’ll find links to each group so you can learn more about what they do, get involved, or access their support.
Sisters Of Support
Poppy is a dedicated volunteer at Sisters of Support, a women‑only community committed to improving mental health and emotional wellbeing. For the past three years, she has been a vital presence within the group. sharing daily motivational messages, offering encouragement to women of all ages, and managing the Sisters of Support Facebook page with warmth, consistency and genuine care.
Her positivity, resilience, and unwavering advocacy for young women’s mental health make her an invaluable asset to the organisation. Every single day, Poppy uplifts others with an inspiring quote and proudly promotes the mission of Sisters of Support, helping women feel empowered, supported, and never alone.
Great Aycliffe Town Council extends its heartfelt gratitude to Poppy for her outstanding commitment and the meaningful impact she continues to make within the community.
Email: info@sistersofsupport.co.uk
Website: Sisters of Support
1407 Newton Aycliffe Air Cadets
Great Aycliffe Town Council is proud to recognise the exceptional dedication of Craig Addison, a member of the 1407 Newton Aycliffe Air Cadets and a shining example of what committed volunteer leadership looks like in our community.
Craig first joined the squadron at just 13 years old, beginning a journey that has now spanned over a decade. At age 20, he progressed into uniformed service, and through years of hard work and unwavering commitment, he rose to become the Commanding Officer — a role he has proudly held for the past three years.
His story is one of growth, loyalty, and a deep belief in the power of youth development.
Craig consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every cadet has access to the best opportunities the Air Cadets can offer. Under his leadership, the squadron runs smoothly, safely, and with a strong sense of purpose.
His contribution includes:
- Leadership & Guidance — providing stability and direction to teenagers across Newton Aycliffe.
- Life Skills Training — from First Aid to teamwork, discipline, and confidence‑building.
- Career Preparation — helping young people develop the skills and mindset needed for the working world.
Craig’s influence extends far beyond weekly sessions. He is shaping capable, confident young adults who carry these lessons with them for life.What makes Craig’s contribution even more remarkable is that he does all of this alongside a full‑time job. His dedication is driven not by obligation, but by passion — a genuine desire to help young people thrive.
Great Aycliffe Town Council extends its gratitude to Craig for his tireless volunteer work, his leadership, and the positive impact he continues to make on the lives of so many local young people.
Email: 1407@rafac.mod.gov.uk
Website: 1407 Newton Aycliffe Air Cadets
Therapy Dogs Nationwide
Great Aycliffe Town Council is delighted to recognise the incredible voluntary work of Chloe Hudson-Shalliker and her wonderful therapy dog, Phantom, a duo whose kindness has touched lives across County Durham.
For the past two years, Chloe and Phantom have volunteered with Therapy Dogs Nationwide, offering comfort, companionship, and connection to those who need it most. Every fortnight, Chloe and Phantom visit Rose Lodge Care Home, where residents eagerly await Phantom’s arrival. His tricks, gentle nature, and love for people bring instant smiles and lift the atmosphere throughout the home.
These visits do more than brighten the day, they spark meaningful moments. Residents often reminisce about their own pets, sharing stories and memories that might otherwise remain unspoken. For those living with dementia, stroking Phantom provides a calming, grounding experience that brings comfort and peace. Their impact is felt long after each visit ends.
Chloe’s generosity in sharing Phantom with the community is truly inspiring. Her commitment to improving the wellbeing of others, simply by giving her time and her dog’s affection, embodies the very best of volunteer spirit.
Great Aycliffe Town Council extends its gratitude to Chloe for her compassion, dedication, and the joy she brings to local residents. Her work reminds us how powerful small acts of kindness can be.
Website: Therapy Dogs Nationwide
Shine Choir
Great Aycliffe is fortunate to be home to many dedicated volunteers and groups, but few shine quite as brightly as Helen McCormick, Elizabeth Brown and Cath Halford. For more than a decade, these three remarkable women have poured their time, energy and passion into supporting children and young people across our community — and their impact has been truly extraordinary.
At the heart of their work is Shine Choir, a much‑loved group that has been running for around 15 years. Through music and song, Helen, Elizabeth and Cath create a space where children can express themselves, build confidence and feel part of something special.
What makes Shine Choir particularly exceptional is its accessibility. Every child attends completely free of charge, thanks to the tireless fundraising efforts of the three leaders. Their commitment ensures that no child is ever excluded due to cost, and that every young person has the chance to experience the joy of performing.
From local events to special trips and the hugely popular Christmas care home tour, Shine Choir brings happiness not only to its members but to the wider community. The smiles, the songs and the sense of togetherness they inspire are a testament to the dedication behind the scenes.
Their contribution doesn’t stop with the choir. Helen, Elizabeth and Cath also run the church youth group, offering a warm, welcoming and safe environment where young people can socialise, learn and grow. Their monthly Kids Flicks sessions provide even more opportunities for families to come together and enjoy free, community‑focused activities.
Across everything they do, one thing remains constant: every child is welcomed, valued and encouraged. Their inclusive approach ensures that no young person is left out, and that everyone has the chance to develop new skills, build friendships and grow in confidence.
The voluntary work of Helen, Elizabeth and Cath has touched countless lives over the years. Their kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment make them outstanding role models for children and adults alike. They give their time freely, ask for nothing in return, and consistently go above and beyond to support families across Great Aycliffe.
Their passion for helping others truly shines through in everything they do, and the difference they make to our community cannot be overstated.
Great Aycliffe Town Council is proud to recognise and celebrate the incredible contribution of these three inspirational women. Their dedication enriches our town, strengthens our community spirit and creates opportunities that will be remembered by young people for years to come.
For more information go to Shine Choir Facebook page
Great Aycliffe Tidy Team
The Great Aycliffe Tidy Team has become one of Newton Aycliffe’s most valued community groups, transforming local spaces through hard work, pride, and a shared commitment to keeping the town clean, green, and welcoming. Since beginning their efforts on in March 2021, starting at the Horndale play area, the team has grown into a shining example of what community action can achieve.
Made up largely of retired residents who give their time freely, the Tidy Team meets each week to tackle litter, refuse, and fly‑tipping across different areas of the town. Their dedication is remarkable: more than 200 duties completed in just five years, each one contributing to a cleaner and safer environment for everyone.
These volunteers don’t just pick up litter, they restore pride in shared spaces. They show what can happen when people care deeply about where they live.
The Tidy Team works closely with Great Aycliffe Town Council, who provide equipment and remove the collected waste. Additional support has come from Durham County Council, Livin and Groundwork Trust, helping the group expand its impact and stay well‑equipped for the job. Seven volunteers have been with the team since day one, and new members continue to join, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm.
While litter picking remains their core activity, the Tidy Team also plays a vital role in enhancing the town’s natural spaces. Their work includes:
- Tree planting — adding new life to local green areas
- Cutting back overhanging branches along the Great Aycliffe Way and other walkways
- Clearing fly‑tipped waste — a major issue in the early days, now thankfully reduced
Their efforts have helped restore woodland paths, improve visibility and safety, and create more enjoyable walking routes for residents.
Residents across Newton Aycliffe regularly express their appreciation for the team’s tireless work. The volunteers’ consistency, friendliness, and determination have made them a much‑loved part of the town’s identity. Their contribution goes far beyond tidying—they foster community pride, encourage others to care for shared spaces, and inspire positive change.
The Great Aycliffe Tidy Team continues to welcome new volunteers who want to make a difference. If you’d like to learn more about joining the Tidy Team or explore community volunteering opportunities, there’s always room for more helping hands.
Please email steven.cooper@great-aycliffe.gov.uk for more information.
