News Archive - 2025

Obituary - Sir Paul Nicholson

SIR PAUL NICHOLSON, who has died aged 86, was the last family chairman of the Sunderland-based Vaux brewery until its demise at the hands of City investors; a leading figure in north-eastern business and civic life, he was also Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham. Vaux (pronounced “vorks”) quenched the thirst of the steelworkers, miners and shipyard men of its home region throughout the industrial era; its best-known products included the Maxim and Double Maxim ales, named in honour of the Maxim Gun Detachment in the Boer War.

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Obituary - Alan Ribchester MBE

Alan Ribchester, who was 79, lived all his life in Durham and was married to Gina. The couple have two sons, Richard and Robert, and four grandchildren.

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Mayor's Charity Appeal Gets Major Boost

TWO charities supported by Durham’ Mayor, County Councillor Liz Brown, during her year of office will share a £1,000 gift from the freemen.

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​Bob's Another “Diamond” in the Crown of Longevity

Bob Elliott has joined the freemen’s celebrated “band of brothers” by reaching a 60-year membership milestone – adding to the already notable claims of two of his grandchildren.

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Butchers look to save their ancient craft skills

NEWLY apprenticed butcher Rachael Lister looks set to be a cut above the rest at the start of her chosen career - thanks to an award from Durham Freemen’s Charitable Trustees to help meet the cost of the tools she will need.

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