Among the headlines this week:
We pay tribute to the independent business keeping the dale going during the lockdown, including a special four-page round-up of support and advice available
Meet the Etherley couple who have teamed up with a sign writer to pay a colourful tribute to NHS staff
We report on proposals for a major revamp at Raby Castle
Teesdale’s district nursing team has been shortlisted for a national award
Middleton-in-Teesdale’s chippy has been named as one of the top 50 in the UK – and its pies have also picked up awards
Egglestone Abbey has been closed after people began gathering there in contravention of lockdown advice
Another dale cafe has launched an online appeal in an effort to raise funds to keep going
Barney vet Janey Lowes has released a book about the charity she set uop in Sri Lanka to care for the country’s street dogs
Catch up with the dale teenager who is honing his songwriting skills during the lockdown
Tan Hill sheep show will be staged online this year
Test your general knowledge skills with Bob Garton’s quiz
In sport, the dale’s athletes were out in force taking part in a marathon relay which helped to raise almost £1,000 for charity
Plus… all your letters, family notices, picture of the week, what the weather has in store… and much more. All in this week’s Mercury.