Derbyshire Guardian Issue 27

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What’s On - Page 29 | Healthy Living - Page 40 | Education - Page 50 | Business - Page 58 | Motoring - Page 68 | Golf Holidays - Page 76

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A fire in the plant room in the car park forced the closure.

The Assembly Rooms will now be replaced.

INSIDE

Whats On 8 5

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ASSEMBLY ROOMS TO BE DEMOLISHED

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erby City Council have announced that the Assembly Rooms, damaged by fire a year ago, are to be demolished and a new cultural venue established, although they have yet to take a decision on just where that will be.

The announcement that the venue would not reopen came at a council meeting at the beginning of March. The Conservative opposition have criticised the Labour council for the delay in making this announcement and believe that the venue could have been refurbished, by now, and put back into use. The fire, on 14th March 2014, started in an air conditioning unit in the plant room in the site’s car park and the building’s water, heating and ventilation systems were destroyed.

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Page 2. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

DERBYSHIRE WATCHES THE SOLAR ECLIPSE

The weather was kind, helping Derbyshire residents who came out to watch the solar eclipse on 20th March. A partial eclipse in Derbyshire, the moon obscured around 90% of the sun just after 9.30 in the morning.

A clear night, with just a hint of ground frost, gave way to a beautiful morning as the sun rose, encouraging those hoping to see the phenomenon.

The eclipse began around 8.30 as the moon began to track its path across the sun.

As the moon approached maximum coverage the light faded and the temperature dropped noticeably,

booked out for the event since 2008. In Britain the greatest coverage was on the Isle of Lewis, the most northerly of the Hebrides, where coverage reached 98%.

Since the last solar eclipse the UK has reached 5GW of installed solar capacity, the equivalent of eight to ten very large coal power plants. There were concerns that if skies were clear on the morning of the eclipse, the European grid would suddenly lose all this power. However, with the event known about in advance, electricity grids coped well with no problems reported.

Derbyshire residents enjoyed the spectacle while office and factory workers took a few moments out of their schedules to share the occasion. creating a sense of confusion amongst the bird population which became quite vocal. The clear sky gave way to light cloud creating a spectacular halo.

This can happen as the sudden drop in temperature causes the clouds to form.

Derbyshire residents enjoyed the spectacle while office and factory workers took a few moments out of their schedules to share the occasion. One popular way to view the spectacle, for engineering workers, was by placing a piece of welding screen glass over the lens of their phone cameras.

For many youngsters, this would be the first eclipse they have seen as there has not been an eclipse visible in the UK since 1999 when the eclipse was total in Devon and Cornwall. The next total eclipse in the UK is not until 2090.

This solar eclipse was total on the Norwegian islands of Svalbard, where some hotels had been

Alan Marriott of Langley Mill captures the eclipse on his phone.

Andy Campion and Dan Wheldon watch the eclipse from Heanor.

Office workers come out to see the eclipse, close to Shipley Park.

Marina launches fourth annual art competition BURST WATER MAIN CREATES TRAFFIC CHAOS Artists of all ages and abilities once again have a chance to showcase their talents in a competition sponsored by Mercia Marina in conjunction with Willington Arts Festival.

The open competition, which celebrates the notion that art is for everybody, has been running since the South Derbyshire village’s annual Arts Festival in 2012, and has become more popular every year.

Robert Neff, general manager at Mercia Marina, said: “This competition originally stemmed from our eagerness to be closely involved with our local communities, but also because it emerged that many of our boaters were extremely talented artists.

Road closure at Chester Green.

“It’s been a fabulous competition to be involved with alongside the organisers of Willington Arts Festival, especially as the number of entries has increased over the years, particularly from school children in the area.”

The art competition invites entries in six separate categories: Painting, Drawing, Photography, Sculpture, Mixed Media and, for the first time, Poetry. The theme for this year’s event is “Willington Today”.

In addition to the introduction of poetry as a category, the competition will be split into two age sections for each of the six categories: One section for under 16s and one for those aged 16 and over.

Young age proved to be no hurdle for the 2014 competition winner however. At just 11 years old, Daisy Gilman, then a pupil at Heath Fields Primary School, in Hatton, South Derbyshire, was declared overall winner with her pencil drawing of a family of ducks.

As in previous years, visitors to Willington Arts Festival – on May 16 and 17 – will be able to vote for their favourite entries in each of the categories.

The overall winner will be the one with the most

Last year’s overall winner, Daisy Gilman. votes among all of the 12 category winners. The 11 runners-up will each receive a prize and the overall winner will be treated to a boat trip at Mercia Marina plus a two-course meal for two at The Boardwalk Bar & Dining, the new pub-restaurant at the marina’s Boardwalk development.

All entries must be submitted to the main office at Mercia Marina by Sunday, May 10. Either deliver entries to Mercia Marina, Findern Lane, Willington, Derbyshire, DE65 6DW or contact 01283 703332 or visit www.willingtonartsfestival.co.uk or www. merciamarina.co.uk for further information.

Admission to the arts festival’s Arts Trail and various workshop events on May 16 and 17 is free for children under 16 and £3 for other visitors.

A burst water main has caused major disruption to with traffic queues stretching miles as motorists tried to get into Derby.

The water main, beneath Mansfield Road at Chester Green, is one of the largest in Derby and forced Severn Trent to close the road. Early estimates suggested it may take a week before traffic would be able to return. The burst occurred outside a row of mews properties with water gushing through the surface of the road, one of the main routes into the city.

Police, at the nearby St. Mary’s Wharf station, were alerted to the problem at around 4.30 am on Saturday 21st March. They contacted Severn Trent Water who immediately sent out crews to investigate. The rupture is believed to be in one of the largest pipes to feed the city, some two and a half feet in diameter, requiring a special team to deal with the problem, experts in dealing with large diameter, high pressure pipes.

The water could be seen bubbling out through the ruptured road surface, creating an extensive pool across Mansfield Road, onto the park, and

The burst has brought a load of mud with it.

The water covers much of Mansfield Road. around 100 metres in length. Much of the roadway was coated in mud and silt. It is understood that businesses in the road would remain open.

Severn Trent were unable to comment as to the reason for the burst. Engineers arriving, on Monday morning said the water had not been turned off until alternative measures could be put in place to maintain supplies to local residences. Severn Trent said no properties had been cut off although homeowners as far afield as Littleover and Chaddesden did report a fall in pressure with occasional interruptions. It was estimated that the repair and road closure could take a week to resolve.

As Motorists headed for the city, on Monday morning, queues built up as they tried to find alternative routes, but by 7.30 am the congestion was extensive. The northern approach along the A61, from the Little Eaton junction with the A38, was solid with traffic in both lanes. Beyond this junction there was a long queue tryng to leave Little Eaton and the A38 tailback was in excess of two miles, stretching beyond Coxbench.

Water gushes through the road surface.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 3.

A Strauss gala performance. >> Continues from the front page councillors argued that the damaged equipment should be replaced and the building refurbished, but Councillor Martin Rawson says this would not be worth it for a building with a limited life expectancy.

“We’ve an estimate that the building has five to ten years left in it,” says Councillor Rawson. “We don’t think spending £10 million represents value for money, especially when that could be used for the investment in a new facility.”

A report by the council’s insurers, Zurich, claims the building’s ventilation system was “poorly maintained” and highlighted multiple areas where firewalls in the building were breached and “not correctly reinstated”. It appears that a considerable amount of work would be required for the venue to be reopened.

The council has also pointed to the limitations of the Assembly Rooms, opened by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1977, as a suitable entertainment venue. “It’s too small to be profitable for commercial

The ever popular Glenn Miller Orchestra. type shows,” added Mr Rawson. “We’ve had discussions with the private sector and they are unwilling to take on the building as it is.”

The options, now, include a replacement venue built either on the same location or possibly at the Duckworth Square site, recently acquired by the city council. If the replacement venue is built elsewhere, the present site could be turned, by developers, into a retail complex including restaurants and bars with flats above.

The City Council are to finalise a 15-year masterplan for the city centre, a draft version of which has now gone out to public consultation, in October and will then seek tenders for the new venue. The council document sets out the aims for the city centre, including the need for “a thriving cultural core anchored by a new cultural venue”.

A new venue could be open in three years from October, provided there are no major planning issues to be overcome. No decision has been made on how the venue would be run, but the council is

McFly’s appearance quickly sold out. keen not to rule out any options, including working with commercial operators.

The present Derby Assembly Rooms has been at the heart of entertainment in the city for nearly forty years, after the original building was pulled down.

The original façade now stands at the Crich Tramway Museum. Over its 37 year life the Assembly Rooms has played host to many different events from beer festivals to model railway exhibitions alongside music and pantomimes.

Despite its limited capacity, big names have appeared on its stage including, in the early days, Elton John. The Assembly Rooms has been popular for music of all genres; folk, rock, jazz, classical and orchestral. Typical performances have ranged from Strauss Galas and the Glenn Miller Orchestra to rock band the Manic Street Preachers, while pop sensations McFly played to a sell-out crowd in 2007.

Later the same year Lesley Garrett celebrated the thirtieth anniversary of the Assembly Rooms by cutting a cake.

Lesley Garrett celebrates the Assembly Rooms 30th anniversary with, then, mayor Cllr Pauline Latham.

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Page 4. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Lack of savings keeping residents in the Midlands up at night Nearly one in seven Brits are kept awake at night over money worries, impacting their day-to-day lives.[1] A study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals that it’s a lack of savings that’s making residents in the Midlands toss and turn with 21 per cent quoting savings as their biggest financial worry.

53 per cent of residents do not have the recommended three-month ‘safety net’ of savings set aside and only 58 per cent have a ‘stash’ put away for a rainy day. The study also found that just half of residents put savings into a pot each month.

Despite worrying about their lack of savings, 37 per cent of those in the Midlands admit to ‘splurge’ purchases that they either cannot afford or later regret.

When it comes to stressful financial situations, more than a third of residents say they would

find being cut off from their gas or electricity provider the most stressful and 22 per cent would find being refused to withdraw money at a cash machine the most worrying.

However, when it comes to saving money, 82 per cent of residents shop in the sales, more than half buy in bulk and 46 per cent shop out of season.

Other key findings reveal that: 21-40 year-olds in the Midlands worry most about their lack of savings 41-60 year-olds worry most about not having enough money for retirement Those over 60 worry most about not being able to maintain their current standard of living The full set of statistics for the East and West Midlands are displayed in the infographics below:

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TEN MINUTES GRACE FOR PARKING MOTORISTS

“A common-sense move,” say the AA. Motorist are to be given ten minutes’ grace when a parking ticket runs out before being fined for parking illegally. Part of the Deregulation Bill, the new rules could take effect within weeks and would include the banning of CCTV cameras that automatically issue parking fines except in some sensitive areas.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said: “We are ending the war on motorists”, while Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said the measures would deliver “a fairer deal for motorists”.

The new rules will apply to cars parked in a payand-display bays and council car parks with time limits. Other measures include a right for residents and local firms to demand that the council reviews parking in their area.

CCTV camera cars that automatically issue parking fines are to be made illegal, except in sensitive areas such as near schools and in bus lanes.

There will be an end to fines at out-of-order parking meters when there is no alternative way to pay.

Guidance will also reinforce that councils cannot use parking to make a profit.

Derby City Council were recently criticised by the AA after it was revealed that the authority made

Motorists will have ten minutes grace when returning to their vehicle. more than £1.4 million from parking charges or fines in 2013-14. The council said the revenue generated is used to improve roads and car parks.

“For too long parking rules have made lawabiding motorists feel like criminals, and caused enormous damage to shops and businesses,” said Mr Pickles. “Over-zealous parking enforcement undermines our town centres and costs councils more in the long term. Our measures will not only bring big benefits for high streets, motorists and local authorities - they put common sense back into parking.”

Mr McLoughlin added: “These measures will help boost the high street by ensuring that parking enforcement is proportionate, while also protecting schoolchildren and keeping key routes and bus lanes clear.”

Martin Langsdale, chairman of the Cathedral Quarter Management Group, said the move would be welcomed by both businesses and visitors to Derby. “We have been lobbying for a review of parking provision and charges in the area. This is a small step, but a positive one.”

The RAC Foundation said allowing a grace period would “help ease tensions and make everyone’s lives easier”, while the AA said the regulation changes were “a common-sense move”.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 5.

Page 6. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Avant Garde Indian Restaurant Launches in Matlock

A brand new restaurant has opened in the East Midlands and is already rocking the foodie scene on Dale Road, Matlock. Moja restaurant promises delicious traditional Indian food served with a smile and made with only the freshest, local produce for a dining experience to remember.

Originating from humble take-away beginnings in Alfreton over a year ago, the spin-off Moja restaurant built up a loyal client base and decided to spread its wings after the new Matlock premises became available. A restaurant spokesperson said, ‘We have always wanted to open a restaurant in Matlock. It is a beautiful area and the newly refurbished building had to do justice to the stunning scenery of Matlock.’

The restaurant is passionate about providing the

The high backed chairs sit snuggled against an eye-catching table setting, each table crowned with a fresh and fragrant orchid. The trendy crockery and luxe chocolate table-cloth give the restaurant a nice contemporary twist and the perfectly placed and pristine polished wine glasses are a pleasure to behold.

Three months were spent refurbishing the new 64 cover restaurant, with meticulous attention being paid to fine detail of the building structure and

best ambience, which is evident upon stepping into the building. The plush carpeting feels like you’re walking on air, whilst the creamy cashmere canvas of the walls hand-painted with ochre swirls really make the in-wall features stand out. Throughout the restaurant, the walls have intricate cut-outs, in which are nestled elegant vases holding delicate stems of fresh flowers.

Moja restaurant promises delicious traditional Indian food served with a smile and made with only the freshest, local produce for a dining experience to remember.

The water wall is one of the standout focal points, which elevate Moja from the realms of just another Indian restaurant, to positively magical. Water streams down a translucent glass panel, with soft strokes of LED lighting making for a spectacular light show. Just standing in the restaurant is a pleasure in itself.

creating a menu which would showcase only the best Bangladeshi cuisine in the East Midlands and beyond.

Moja is understated elegance personified and the perfect setting for a celebration, party or special date night with a difference. Moja’s avant garde alcohol policy also means that diners are free to bring along their own alcohol to drink with their food.

A restaurant spokesperson said, ‘This is definitely a unique concept for Matlock. We want diners to enjoy

food and with that, their very own choice of drink.

We at Moja have an extensive alcoholic beverage list, but customer satisfaction is at the crux of what Moja do. What the customer wants, the customer gets.’

has clocked up an impressive 18 years’ on the UK restaurant scene. These powerhouse chefs create a menu that is diverse, each dish lovingly prepared and sent out from the kitchens with the greatest care and attention.

The accommodating and thoughtful nature of Moja means that the customer is at the beating heart of Moja’s operation. For celebrations or larger gatherings, diners have the option of dropping off alcohol at the premises before the party commences, for a smooth and seamless dinner.

Nice touches as these keep happy customers flocking back for more. The food and incomparable customer service is what brings people back and despite being open for only a few weeks, Moja is extremely busy and has garnered great reviews on Trip Advisor and social media.

One of the restaurant’s key priorities is to ensure that delicious food comes out of the kitchen in a timely manner and is served with a smile. A staunch advocate of instilling happiness in its workforce, the restaurant’s ethos is that happiness is key. Chefs prepare dishes with love, platters which are then carried by happy waiting staff and served with a smile to diners. From kitchen to table, the food is on a journey for the pure delectation of the diner.

The kitchen is managed by two chefs, one of which

Prepare to have your taste-buds awakened with delicious, traditional Indian cuisine. Contact Moja now on 01629 582858 to book a dining experience that you won’t forget.

For a chance to win a delicious meal for two at Moja Restaurant, please email ria@atrmedialtd.co.uk with your name, telephone number and address. In the subject heading, put;

“MOJA COMPETITION” The lucky winner will be informed at the end of the month. Good luck to all!

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 7.

TA K E A W AY & DELIVERY SERVICE EARLY BIRD EAT IN EVERY DAY 4 COURSE £12.95 pp 5.00pm - 7.00pm 10% off on collection on order over £15 and free delivery within 4 miles order over £15

Tel: 01629 582858 www.mojarestaurant.co.uk

129 DALE ROAD, MATLOCK, DE4 3LU The proprietors reserve right to refuse service

Page 8. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

MIXED REACTIONS TO PLANNING APPLICATIONS

The Hackwood Farm site leads onto this quiet rural lane.

There have been contrasting reactions, by local residents, to the results of planning applications put before Derby City Council. Two applications to develop farmland in Mickleover have been rejected whilst an application to build on land at Chaddesden has been granted at the appeal stage, having previously been turned down.

Residents close to a proposed development of 700 new homes, on the edge of Mickleover, are celebrating after two planning applications, for 410 homes, were rejected by Derby City Council on 27th February. This was despite a recommendation by Council planning officers that permission should be granted.

Miller Homes made the applications to build the homes on the Hackwood Farm site, off Radbourne Lane, together with a third application, to South Derbyshire District Council, for a further 290 homes outside the city boundary.

Derby City Council rejected the plans by six votes to five, but the strength of the resident’s objections was shown when 120 letters and emails, objecting to

the proposals, were received together with a 1,462 strong petition. The residents delight at the rejection of the application is tempered by the expectation that Miller Homes may appeal the city council’s decision. However, they believe that impact of the additional traffic generated should still be great enough for the council to reject an appeal.

The proposed development would be accessed off Radbourne Lane and Starflower Way. The area already has significant traffic congestion with long queues waiting to turn from Station Road onto Radbourne Lane during both morning and evening rush hours. Queues can already reach a quarter of a mile, and the new estates could add up to a thousand cars to existing congestion.

In a statement the council said the developer had proposed “to mitigate the impact of generated traffic on the junction of Station Road and Radbourne Lane by building a roundabout at the junction. The roundabout will accommodate the traffic generated by the development and address the existing issue of substandard visibility to the west of the junction

Congestion is already a problem at the Station Road junction with Radbourne Lane. new development could generate.

Miller Homes is currently developing the nearby 70home Langley Country Park on Radbourne Lane, in the shadow of the Severn Trent water tower. A new roundabout has been created here to ease traffic flow past the estate.

Derby City Council has recently completed a Government survey to set its own target for housing requirements for a twenty-year period up to 2028.

The Hackwood Farm site had been considered crucial in helping the city reach a target of 12,500 new homes. These are part of 35,354 new homes required in the Derby Housing Marketing Area which includes South Derbyshire (13,454 new homes) and Amber Valley (9,400).

Hilary Jones, ward councillor for Mickleover, spoke of the residents delight: “We are very pleased the councillors have listened to our arguments, the majority of them had done their own research and turned the application down. There is a lot of local

for drivers emerging from Station Road onto Radbourne Lane.”

However, it is difficult to see the benefit of such a roundabout as the congestion would simply

“The infrastructure of Mickleover is just not suitable for all those vehicles, so we really need to think about how we would get the traffic away from this site.” be transferred to the Radbourne Lane junction with the A52 Ashbourne Road. Much traffic from Mickleover also heads for Derby via Western Road and Uttoxeter Road. These roads also experience considerable congestion without the extra traffic a

A scene of peace and tranquillity, but Radleigh Homes have won an appeal to build here.

Plans to build homes at Hackwood Farm have been rejected. opinion against this, not just the neighbours. Losing green fields is never a good thing and I can’t see the merits of losing farmland and wildlife for a load of houses. Even if green space is included, it’s not the same.”

Mrs Jones added that traffic issues were a major concern. One councillor pointed out the site is quite isolated, so over reliance on the car, which policies say should be looked at, hasn’t been addressed sufficiently by the applicant on this occasion. We have a lot of local traffic problems and this would just exacerbate the problem.”

In contrast, the residents of Chaddesden have lost a two and a half year fight to prevent the development of land at Brook Farm. Radleigh Homes plan to build 275 new homes on the site that extends from Morley Lane to Oregon Way, bordering Acorn Way. The proposal was initially rejected in February 2014, but a two-day appeal heard in March overturned that decision and ruled in favour of the developer.

Campaigners against the development now say they are devastated at the latest decision. Their fight against the proposal was supported by a 1,500 signature petition, which now counts for nothing.

Derby City Council initially rejected the application on the grounds of inadequate provision for traffic.

The main access to the site, via a mini-roundabout off Oregon Way, would cause road safety and traffic flow problems.

A spokesperson for Derby City Council said that although the council took the decision not to defend the appeal, following counsel's advice, the appeal was still heard by the Government Inspector at the inquiry, to give opportunity for Radleigh Homes and members of the public to make their representations.

The Government Inspector has now made his decision taking into account all the issues which were raised at the inquiry, and ruled in favour of the developer.

Jane Lamb of Chapel Lane, Chaddesden, led the campaign against the proposed development. “It’s a beautiful, quiet serene area,” she said. “After two and a half years of campaigning for the residents of Chaddesden, you always hope that your principals of saving it will be valued. Every moment of time has been consumed by trying to save it.”

Mrs Lamb felt there were other avenues that should have been explored to satisfy the need for new homes. “I sympathise with the people that want homes, but I do believe that there are many derelict and brownfield sites. I feel that all of those should be considered before an inch of green field is taken

around the Derby area. For instance the Celanese site, once it’s cleared, could be another Oakwood.”

Another member of the campaign group believes that the traffic provision for a new development is totally inadequate. “All the traffic will have to leave through Oregon Way,” said Oregon Way resident John Shepherd. “It is already difficult to get out of here in the morning and this will make the situation

worse. What has upset our group was the way that the Council appear to have colluded with the developers. I attended the enquiry at the Council House, and the developers bought in someone who seemed to be more like a barrister. The council officials were all over him. This is a bad time for us, the environment, and for the future of our countryside.”

Miller Homes are already building along Radbourne Lane.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 9.

HISTORIC BUILDING: FEAR OF COLLAPSE CLOSES ROAD

Barriers prevent the public from getting too close to the building.

Engineers are worried that the 16th century former farmhouse is in danger of collapse.

Safety measures installed to protect the public.

The road is open again to traffic including buses.

Fear of a building collapse has closed Church Street.

Fears that an historic building may collapse has prompted Derby City Council engineers to close the road. The 16th century property, a timber-framed former farmhouse in Church Street, Alvaston, is one of the oldest buildings in the suburb. Structural engineers were concerned about the stability of one of external walls and, with the fear that it may collapse, immediately closed the road. There was no opportunity to give notice of the closure as it was done in the interest of public safety.

A statement by Derby City Council’s building consultancy manager, Steve Elliot, outlined the course of action. “A structural assessment of No 3 Church Street by the council’s structural engineers has identified a real and present danger of collapse of the external wall of the building, necessitating the immediate closure of the road under emergency highways legislation to safeguard the public.

“Action is being taken under the Council’s dangerous structures powers to make the building safe and once remedial building works have been completed and the danger removed, the road can be re-opened.” The council say they have served a several notices to the owner, Mr Harry Burnett (84), but he has denied there is a problem with the property, declaring it to be ‘perfectly safe’.

Over the last decade, there have been a number of concerns about the condition of the Grade II listed property which, it is claimed, has been allowed to slowly deteriorate. Following council notices, work has been carried out, by the owner, to the chimney, a lean-to garage roof and the roof of the 19th century pig sty and stable block.

It was an assessment, last month, which has identified the risk of collapse of the front wall next to the public footpath used by children attending nearby schools.

A spokesman for the council said structural engineers were producing a design to temporarily shore up the external walls of the building. This work could be done subject to giving the owner seven days’ notice. Once the house was safe the road could be reopened and the council would be able to recover the cost of the work from the property owner.

However, Councillor Alan Graves, ward councillor for Alvaston said the council have been aware of this build for a long time and he is disappointed that they have not done anything about it until now. “The structural engineers visited the building last year, and it has been on the warning list. They visited again and the information coming through says it is in such a dangerous state that it is likely to collapse.

Another building of similar age next door is showing signs of wear, but is structurally fine. One problem is that it has been about enforcement. The council have been discussing it with the owner, rather than enforcing him to do it, because it has been known about for some time.”

Historically, much of the land of Alvaston was owned by the abbeys of Dale and Darley. After the dissolution of these monasteries the lands of the Dale monastery were granted in 1547 to Henry Needham while the land and tithes which had belonged to the Darley monastery were given by Queen Mary (reigned 1553 – 1558) to the bailiffs and burgesses of the town of Derby. The original farmhouse, now on Church Street, possibly dates from this period.Church Street now forms part of a bus route. Concerns have been raised that the foundations of this historic property are unsuited to the heavy traffic that passes along the street and this may have contributed to the current situation.

“The road is extremely old,” said Cllr Graves, “but our engineers have said that the structure of the road is suitable and can hold the flow of buses that go by.” The council did manage to complete the safety work the following week and the raod was reopened allowing bus services to resume. The onus is now on the owner to initiate the remedial work to preserve the cottage.

Page 10. Issue 26: Derbyshire Guardian

HIGHWAYS AGENCY PLEASED WITH PUBLIC CONSULTATION The Highways Agency is delighted with the response of local residents to the recent public consultation on their proposals to improve traffic flow on the A38 through Derby.

The Agency has received 625 responses, with comments, following the consultation which included public exhibitions and a video simulation viewed on YouTube. They would still be pleased to receive any further responses and have promised that all comments will be taken into consideration.

The plans, revealed by the Highways Agency, should make traffic congestion on the A38 through Derby a thing of the past. The £220 million scheme would enable the A38 traffic to flow freely through underpasses at the Kingsway and Markeaton roundabouts and cross the Little Eaton roundabout on a new flyover. Local traffic should also be able to flow more freely around the A38.

Derby residents were urged, by

the Highways Agency, to help shape the plans to improve these busy junctions and hundreds of people attended an exhibition at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre in February to look at the proposals in detail.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has given their views,” said a Highways Agency spokesperson.

“We’ve had a fantastic response from Derby residents and we’d like to thank everyone for taking the time to visit our exhibitions and fill in the consultation forms. This was a non-statutory consultation, meaning we weren’t legally obliged to hold it, but we wanted to canvas opinion in Derby, and feel it’s been a very, very successful exercise.

“In terms of responses, we’ve had 340 questionnaires through the post, and 285 online responses.

We also held three exhibitions – in the city, at Little Eaton and in Breadsall – and we had 994 people visit these events (652 in Derby, 182 in Breadsall and 160 at Little Eaton). Our video showing a 3D simulation of the

plans has been viewed 1,774 times on YouTube.

“The next step will be to work through all the responses to identify specific concerns and points from the public. We’ll then be doing some environmental surveys and assessments to identify the potential environmental impact of the schemes, before we develop our traffic model to assess the economic value of the scheme and the impact on traffic around the city. After that, we’ll progress with our designs and start defining provision for pedestrians and cyclists. All this work will feed into our overall plans, before we announce our preferred route in summer 2016.

“We appreciate that, even though the consultation ended on Friday (13th March), people may still wish to raise concerns, give their views or find out more about our proposals. You can still contact the project team via email: A38derbyjunctions@ highways.gsi.gov.uk”

WORK BEGINS ON ILKESTON STATION

The old building site (far side, centre) has now been cleared.

W

ork began, in March, on the new railway station for Ilkeston. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin visited the site on 7th March to watch the demolition of the old station building.

The site of the old station, used in recent years as a scrap yard, will make way for the new £9 million station which has been delayed, most recently, by the presence of great-crested newts on the site.

Ground clearance work has already begun with the cutting back of trees and shrubs. Construction is expected to begin, in earnest, during the summer once Natural England have confirmed that all newts on the site have been removed.

When completed the station will provide a rail link between Ilkeston and Nottingham, to the southeast, and with Alfreton and Chesterfield to the north. Ilkeston once had three railway stations, but the last one closed in 1967 following the 1963 Beeching Report. It is now the largest town in the

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin visits the station site.

country not to have a station.

“The new station at Ilkeston will make a real difference to the local area when it opens, and will help secure economic growth across the region by linking people with jobs, and businesses with people,” said Mr McLoughlin. “Investing in projects like this is a central part of our long-term economic plan, as part of the record investment in our rail network between 2014 and 2019. I am pleased that work is now underway, and I look forward to it being completed as soon as possible.

It will support the development of the local area, as well as attracting more business to the town.”

Last year the Environment Agency also raised concerns over flooding in the station car park.

Revised planning applications are now being considered by Erewash and Broxtowe borough councils and a decision is expected to be announced in the next few weeks.

“The new station at Ilkeston will make a real difference to the local area when it opens, and will help secure economic growth across the region by linking people with jobs, and businesses with people” A Highways Agency view of the proposed Kingsway (nearest) and Markeaton junctions.

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Shrubs have been cleared from the site of the new car park.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 26: Page 11.

Page 12. Issue 26: Derbyshire Guardian

Mercia Marina monthly markets to launch Easter Monday

Mercia Marina is holding the first of a new programme of monthly food and craft markets on Easter Monday.

The event will mark the beginning of the first summer season for the marina’s new Boardwalk shopping and leisure development, which opened last autumn.

The food and craft market, which takes place between 10.30am and 5.30pm on Bank Holiday Monday, April 6, is being organised on the marina’s behalf by professional outdoor market specialist firm Sketts.

Stalls will sell a wide range of goods, from jewellery, handbags and scented candles to chutney, samosas and sauces. There will also be children’s activities, nature and wildlife trails, and visitors will be able to find out more about the few remaining plots available for the marina’s highly acclaimed luxury holiday lodges.

The market will be staged behind the iconic Boardwalk development, next to the marina’s new sensory garden and unique five-sided bandstand.

Visitors to the food and craft market will also be able to sample the permanent shops and businesses on site at The Boardwalk and the wider 74-acre marina, in Findern Lane, near Willington.

These include The Boardwalk pub-restaurant, flagship farm shop The Butcher Baker, Zing Furniture, Bluewater Clothing, Annie & George children’s giftware and clothing, Willow Tree Tea Rooms, Midland Chandlers and The Mug Tug, where people can decorate their own ceramics.

The marina’s trip boat, which provides short journeys along the canal to Willington and other nearby landmarks, is also expected to be in high demand.

The marina will be using this and future events to help promote its chosen charity, the Derbyshire Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance.

Precise dates for future markets are currently being finalised. Free parking is available for visitors at or adjacent to the marina.

Robert Neff, general manager of Mercia Marina, said: “Since the Boardwalk opened last October, we’ve been looking forward immensely to this spring and summer, where people can really make the most of the fabulous new outdoor events space.

“We hosted a similar market at Christmas, and it proved so popular that we decided to make it a monthly event from this spring. We look forward to welcoming new visitors on Easter Monday – and hopefully on a regular basis.”

CANAL CHARITY CALLS ON EAST MIDLANDERS TO FEED THE DUCKS RESPONSIBLY Every year 6 million loaves of bread are being thrown into canals and rivers in England and Wales - potentially polluting the water and damaging hundreds of thousands of ducks’ homes (1).

Last year 82% of people (the second highest figure in the country) in the East Midlands fed the ducks, 74% of them admitting to feeding our feathered friends with bread.

Uneaten soggy bread can cause a build-up of bad nutrients which can lead to greater algae growth, spread disease and encourage pests such as rats.

Today, ahead of the official start of spring and duckling hatching season, the Canal & River Trust is calling on people across the East Midlands to make a few simple changes to how they feed the ducks (2).

Richard Bennett, environment manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Please come and feed the ducks but do it sensibly so your children and future generations can enjoy it too.

The charity is asking the public to make a few simple changes.

Bread’s not great for a duck’s

health as it’s nothing like their natural diet so don’t over feed them with large quantities of it. Try to vary what you give them and swap it for healthier more natural treats like oats, corn or defrosted frozen peas. And exercise portion control!

“Don’t follow the crowds, spread the love, and visit a new family of ducks to prevent large quantities of the starchy duck ‘junk food’ from clogging up the same places and potentially damaging the environment.”

The charity provides an important home to hundreds of thousands of ducks and other waterfowl and takes its responsibility of keeping their homes safe very seriously.

Throwing bread into a canal or river can create overcrowding of bird populations, as the birds will flock to the same location in search of their starchy treat.

Too many ducks or waterfowl in one place can stress the birds and lead to their habitats being damaged. It also creates excessive amounts of bird poo which along with being smelly and slippery underfoot, can have

a negative effect on water quality and create harmful algae which can clog the waterway.

A public poll, carried out on behalf of the charity, found more than 15 million people fed the ducks with their family or friends last year, 12 million of them admitting to feeding our feathered friends with bread (3).

Londoners were the least likely to take a trip out to feed the ducks with more than half (60%) admitting to never feeding our feathered friends. The survey also found more women (80%) feed the ducks than men (68%), and northerners feed the ducks more often than southerners (78% v 69%).

The charity has created a free booklet packed with tips on the right food to feed the ducks which includes lots of activities for children. To receive this, along with your free Quack Snack pouch to store your healthy duck treats, text DUCKS to 70060.

For more information on the campaign visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/ duck

Long Rake Spar With many demands filling our weekends and evenings it’s often hard to devote time to improving your garden. Last year a survey by the RHS found that we really are a nation of gardeners with 80% of us feeling happier when we were outside. Most of us want to use our gardens to relax and spend time with family and friends; however it can be difficult to create a space that is low maintenance and cost efficient.

As an alternative to large areas of lawn or planting beds, decorative aggregates provide a versatile surface in gardens of any size and style. As an easy to install option, chippings and pebbles offer a sustainable solution for those wanting to do it themselves or choose a more individual style. After establishing and measuring the area that you want to cover, calculating the correct amount of aggregate using an online gravel calculator can save time and money. Aggregate should ideally be laid at a depth of 50mm on top of a layer of membrane to prevent

weeds breaking through and provide an effective decorative covering.

Decorative aggregates can also be used to construct visible breaks between large areas of planting and lawn, creating contrast and interest, immediately improving the outlook of the garden which needs minimal long term maintenance.

Stone Warehouse’s unrivalled selection of hard landscaping materials includes decorative gravels and chippings, pebbles and cobbles, boulders and rockery stone alongside a superior range of paving and landscaping bark.

By offering a wide choice of aggregates for a variety of applications, Stone Warehouse supply stone direct from the source to your front door, allowing you to create a unique and inspiring outdoor space easily and efficiently. To view our full range of products and for more information please visit our website at www.stonewarehouse.co.uk

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 26: Page 13.

Page 14. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Spring Gardening www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Gardening can be highly rewarding, fun and utterly addictive hobby and the best way to do it is to jump right in and start experimenting.

You don’t need to sit down and read up on an entire manual on gardening before getting started but these few pointers should get you off to a good start.

Also remember that there is a wealth of information about the subject online, in books and magazines and on specialist gardening programmes on television.

The key is not to become daunted at the sheer amount of information available, but just to get started at a pace which is good for you.

So here are some top tips for ensuring that you get your gardening hobby off to the best possible start.

It is very important to know your soil type.

Different plants grow better in different soil types so matching plants to soil type is very important indeed. There are three main soil types - sand, silt and clay and staff at your local gardening centre will advise you on which plants are best for which soils.

Different types of plants also need different amounts of light and nutrients, so plant similar plant types together for best results.

Also take time to learn to identify common pests and diseases which may attack your plants so that you can take appropriate action. Note that reaching for the nearest chemical spray is not always necessary and more eco-friendly

alternatives should always be considered.

Talking of being environmentally friendly, don’t forget that you can make your own compost from kitchen scraps and prunings which you can use to start a compost heap.

Don’t forget to remove dead flowers from flowering plants every few days as this will prolong the flowering season. This is especially important in the case of flowering annuals but it also applies to many flowering shrubs.

Just like humans, plants need regular watering but different plants need different amounts of water. Take time to know how much water your plants need and how often they need to be watered. Under or over watering plants could lead to disastrous results so understanding this is very important indeed.

When it comes to gardening there are many common mistakes which people make such as planting in the wrong spot, such as an area which is too dry, too moist, to hot or too cool for the species being grown.

It is also quite common for people new to gardening to pull up plants instead of weeds so ensure that you know your plants from your weeds.

In all gardening can be a really rewarding hobby and as you get more skilful then you will be rewarded by ever better results.

Create a wildlife haven in your garden Butterflies, moths and other wildlife need our help.

Three-quarters of British butterflies are in decline; threatened by habitat loss, climate change and pollution.

Your garden can provide a lifeline for butterflies and help ensure these beautiful visitors continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

Tips on how to attract butterflies • Butterflies like warmth so choose sunny, sheltered spots when planting nectar plants.

• Choose different plants to attract a wider variety of species. Place the same types of plant together in blocks.

• Try to provide flowers right through the butterfly season. Spring flowers are vital for butterflies coming out of hibernation and autumn flowers help butterflies build up their reserves for winter.

Top five summer nectar plants for butterflies: Buddleia: Very easy to grow in almost any soil.

Different varieties will flower in pink, red, purple, and white. Usually in bloom through July and August. These shrubs need pruning well in spring as they can grow 5’ to 8’ from the ground in a single season and should be deadheaded regularly.

Verbena Bonariensis: Stems up to a metre tall support heads of lavender flowers from August to October. Easy to grow from seed, plant MarchApril in well-drained soil. Can provide useful

height at the back of a border. Only half hardy so can be a short lived perennial.

Lavender: Flowers grow on spikes through the summer. Plants can be used for edging beds or grown to form an attractive, low-growing hedge.

It will thrive in a sunny, sheltered position in welldrained soil. Lavender should be planted in April or May and pruned to encourage bushy growth.

‘DIG IT’ GARDENING FESTIVAL Come along and enjoy a unique day out at Peak Shopping Village this year’s hosts to ‘Dig It’ gardeners’ festival. Shop stalls where you will find a great selection of plants, locally grown produce and a dazzling array of new and vintage garden products intermingled with garden inspired homeware.

Delicious ‘pop up’ refreshments from the Real Ale Bar, Bluebelle Garden Tea Room as well as on site restaurant Massarella’s.

In the ‘Outside Matters’ area you can find out about community projects and supporting local wildlife. Children can enjoy the Bee Trail –pick up maps from the Dig It Bee or Flower characters

'

FREE KET GARDENER'S MAR TRAIL CHILDREN 'S BEE

which should be pretty easy to spot!

All of this as well as shopping from the Gift Company, The Works, Pavers Shoes, Field and Trek and many more. Come along to this stunning part of Derbyshire and enjoy a great day out. The event is FREE to attend and Parking is FREE for up to 4 hours.

Visit www.peakshoppingvillage.com

REAL ALE BAR + CAFE

OUTSIDE MATTERS

18th & 19th april Gen’enquiries: 01629 735326 Chatsworth Rd, Rowsley, Derbyshire DE4 2JE www.peakshoppingvillage.com

Perennial Wallflower (Bowles Mauve): Produces a profusion of sweet-scented purple flowers from April all through the summer. Wallflowers make great bedding plants and will grow well in full sun or light shade. Plant in well-drained soil.

Marjoram (Oregano): A perennial herb, growing from 20 to 80 cm tall. White, pink or purple flowers grow on spikes from June to September. A good edging plant and useful ground cover, requiring little maintenance. The smaller varieties also do well in rock and alpine gardens.

Butterfly Conservation’s Gardening for Butterflies & Moths booklet contains essential information about creating your own butterfly haven. To get your copy take advantage of our special reader offer and become a member for half price (see below) www.butterfly-conservation.org/join or give us a call on 01929 406015 – quoting promotion code: GARDEN50

Half price membership offer Join Buuerfly Conservation for just £1.33 a month* and receive a copy of our exclusive Gardening for Buuerflies and Moths booklet and a FREE pack of buuerfly friendly plant seeds in your welcome pack.

To take advantage of this great offer: join by direct debit online at www.buuerfly-conservation.org/join or give us a call on 01929 406015 – quoting promotion code: GARDEN50 Don’t let buuerflies disappear from our gardens - your support today can help them thrive for future generations to enjoy! *Half price membership for one year, offer available for new members joining by direct debit only with promotion code - closes 31 May 2015.

Butterfly Conservation is a charity registered in England & Wales (254937) and in Scotland (SCO39268)

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 15.

Help us find Derbyshire’s rural community champion

Valerie’s Veggies

older generations of farmers into dignified and comfortable retirement.

As a trustee for The Addington Fund, Al is committed to increasing awareness of the plight of those in the farming community who need help, but who often don’t ask until it is too late.

Al involves himself in all aspects of the charity’s work - fundraising, strategy discussions and helping to organise grant-aided work, to name just a few, all helping to make a difference.

Anyone that brings a benefit or improvement to the rural community in Derbyshire is a potential Rural Community Champion and is eligible for nomination. They may be fundraisers, care for elderly neighbours, help restore or maintain community buildings, organise farm visits for school children or organise and support community events and projects.

Mark Thomas, Agrii’s Marketing Manager said: “As a business that works in the countryside and serves the farming industry, we know that there is so much good work going on behind closed doors on top of the ‘day job’. We want to champion and celebrate this with a new campaign and competition.”

The competition will identify 20 local winners from all the nominations received across the UK. They will each win £50 for themselves or to put towards their local project. From these winners a panel of judges will shortlist three finalists, one from each Agrii region – North, East and West – with Derbyshire being a part of the West region.

The overall national winner will be chosen from the three finalists by Agrii customers and will win £1,000. The two runners up will each win £500.

The Rural Community Champion campaign is being run in conjunction with FCN – a charity supported by Agrii that provides advice and support for farming families in times of crisis.

Healthy Food, Healthy Wildlife, Healthy Planet

Agrii is asking the Derbyshire farming community and the general public to nominate their local community heroes as part of the nationwide campaign to identify the UK’s Rural Community Champion.

The campaign will celebrate the people who make a real difference to the rural communities in which they live and work, but may often see their efforts go unnoticed and unrecognised.

Farm manager Al Brooks is an example of someone making a real difference to their local farming community. Al is dedicated to helping

Every living thing needs food which is obvious really. But what is food - dead bits of other living things like floating bits for Amoebae? Complex, broken down molecules in the soil for plants? Portions of beef for humans? Chemicals for plants? Hold it - chemicals are not food. True.

But much of our food is produced by ‘feeding’ chemicals to plants as fertilisers in soil, or spraying directly onto leaves; synthetic hormones are added to cattle feed, and antibiotics to poultry feed, to increase growth.

Are the plants, cattle and poultry healthy? They are not able to complain, so we don’t really know.

What about the effect on humans, from eating the chemically-produced food?

This key question has concerned many people since chemicals were first used to increase food production, over a century ago.

We now have organic food (produced without chemicals) and non-organic food (produced with chemicals), and it is a long-held view of many people that organic food is more nutritious and therefore healthier.

Recently a study from Newcastle University, has confirmed that organic fruit, vegetables and cereals are up to 60% higher in a number of key nutrients, than their non-organic counterparts. So organic food really is healthier.

Humans are entirely dependent on insects and other invertebrates for much of their food. Insect activities enable flowering plants to produce their seeds, some of which are contained in the fruits, berries and beans now available to us.

Again these delicious foods can be grown organically, or non-organically, but non-organic

methods include applications of pesticides to keep the foods unblemished and attractive for purchasing.

No pesticides are used in production of organic foods. Despite the considerable skepticism about the values of organic food, the fact is that pesticides kill not only pests, but also bees, wasps, and most other insect species, including those eaten by birds.

The consequence is that insect numbers are now dangerously low, thus threatening our food supply, and once-common bird and vertebrate species are vanishing for lack of food. This is happening over the whole planet.

Is this the bleak future we want for our children?

Judging by the larger quantities of non-organic foods sold, it seems it is. But please reconsider your dietary and purchasing habits and your health, and grow your own or buy organic foods and plants to help the bees and the planet, as well as you.

Page 16. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) With only 8 months left to complete the work how are you doing? Do you even know about it!

Making the most of ESOS (THE ENERGY SAVINGS OPPORTUNITY SCHEME) The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is a new, mandatory energy assessment and saving identification scheme for large private sector undertakings in the UK. The scheme includes Buildings, Transport, Industrial Processes and all forms of energy.

Ian Jackson CEng IMechE MEI It’s 8 months since DECC announced the new, mandatory, Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme that affects all privately owned large organisations in the UK. Organisations with • over 250 employees and / or • a turnover >£39million plus balance sheet >£33.5million must complete an ESOS assessment and register it with the Environment Agency, before the 5th December 2015.

With over 10,000 organisations in the UK affected

by ESOS, there is a massive amount of work to complete in an ever shortening timescale. With a potential £90k fine and the damage to reputation from public disclosure for organisations not completing the assessment in time, pressure is mounting.

As an approved ESOS Lead Assessor, we are seeing mixed reactions from organisations: • Many are well progressed in their energy management processes and so ESOS shouldn’t be too onerous. It is giving them an opportunity to get the great work they are already doing reviewed by an expert with a fresh pair of eyes. Saying that, ESOS also includes transport fuel usage, which is different to many other energy schemes, such as CRC and CCA, so does open up new opportunities.

• Other organisations, which haven’t had the time or resource to look at energy saving in the past, are now being captured by ESOS. These organisations

are the least likely to have heard about ESOS and potentially have the most work to do as they won’t have energy management systems already in place.

Undertaking an ESOS assessment will help them to identify the variety of ways that they can save energy and money.

Whether you are already ahead of the game on energy efficiency or facing the challenge of identifying energy savings opportunities for the first time, as a small, local independent ESOS Lead Assessor we can tailor our service to help you be ready by the deadline.

With only 8 months left, over 10,000 organisations to comply, and a limited number of ESOS Lead Assessors, we strongly recommend that you appoint a Lead Assessor urgently.

As a Lean, Green and Local improvements consultancy based in Belper, we are aiming to help and support organisations based or with head offices in the East Midlands to get the most benefit from your ESOS compliance.

Go to www.developyour.co.uk/lean-green.php for the Develop Your guide to ESOS and the Environment Agency’s compliance document.

If you think you might be in the scope of ESOS and need help please get in touch, ian.jackson@developyour.co.uk

Map UK organisational structure

Does the organisation qualify?

> 250 Employees

No

Turnover > £39mil

And

Yes

Select Director Responsible

Decide organisation reporting structure (disaggregation)

Start the Evidence Pack

Balance Sheet > £33.5mil Yes

Route to compliance?

ISO 50001

We can Develop Your Energy Savings Opportunities Assessment Stage 1 ESOS Scoping Stage 2 Pre-Audit Preparation

We will supply an ESOS scoping questionnaire and guidance to assist with the completion of Stage 1.

We will build your energy consumption model and agree the areas of significant energy usage (>90%) to be audited.

(Energy Collection & Model)

We will supply a list of information to be collected for each area of significant usage, collate the findings and prepare a Pre-Audit Gap Analysis.

Stage 3 * Pre-Audit Preparation

We will carry out the energy analysis and using information collated identify initial energy saving opportunities.

(Energy and Gap Analysis)

Stage 4 Energy Efficiency Audits Stage 5

ESOS Opportunity Assessment review and report

The preparatory work carried out in stages 1, 2 and 3 will help identify the resources and additional audits required to complete the ESOS assessment report.

Need Help?

If you need support, Develop Your Ltd is offering a free 1 hour ESOS review with a registered ESOS Lead Assessor to local organisations within 10 miles of our Belper office. Give Ian Jackson a call on 07940 397208 or email ian.jackson@developyour.co.uk

Lean, Green and Local Develop Your Ltd is a Derbyshire based lean business improvement and development SME, specialising in resource efficiency. On the ESOS approved Register for Professional Energy Consultants. A former Toyota UK trainer and a Chartered Engineer with Lean Six Sigma Black belt accreditation combine to offer over 50 years’ experience of delivering improvements in private and public sector organisations.

Lightsource invites local community to help shape new Derbyshire solar farm proposals Lightsource Renewable Energy, the UK’s leading solar energy generator, is inviting residents to discuss proposals to install a solar farm at Averill Farm, in Derbyshire. Initial plans for the site, between the villages of Stretton and Morton, will be displayed at a Community Information Evening on Wednesday 25th March, at Morton Village Hall, off Main Road, in Morton, from 5.30pm until 8pm.

The proposed solar farm would generate locallysourced energy for 1,366 homes and Lightsource hopes to draw on local knowledge to help shape the plans to ensure they are the best fit for the surrounding community. The selected fields are well-screened by dense woodland, which will remain undisturbed and the solar panels would reach a maximum height of 2.5 metres, so would not be visible from the footpaths near to the site.

Existing hedgerow along the western boundary will be cultivated to screen any potential views into the solar farm from residences to the west of the site, while thick vegetation along the eastern boundary of the site will screen views from the railway line.

As well as being a source of home-grown energy, a solar farm is an ideal environment for farmland diversification and the Averill Farm solar project will be designed to have a continued agricultural use.

The land inside the fenced solar farm area is lowgrade (Grade 4) and will be seeded with speciesrich grass including the area underneath the panels.

The wide field margins and gaps between the rows of panels would allow a flock of sheep to graze happily on the solar farm site enabling the site to produce food as well as energy.

Conor McGuigan, Planning and Development Director at Lightsource, said: “With solar energy there doesn’t have to be a choice between food or energy production. The passive nature of a solar farm offers a viable source of clean, home-grown energy that can work in tandem with existing agricultural activities, such as sheep grazing. It is

this ability to generate clean, safe electricity whilst maintaining a respect for rural traditions that makes solar power such an attractive prospect.”

The proposed solar farm site could also become a haven for wildlife and Lightsource is working closely with ecologists to create a bespoke Biodiversity Management Plan, which will be put in place to ensure that native species benefit from planting, seeding and habitat creation. All trees and hedgerows around the solar farm site will be retained and enhancements such as bird boxes, ‘bee-friendly’ wildflowers and log piles would bring a further boost to local wildlife. Lightsource is also keen is hear from local school or wildlife groups who would like to assist with the on–going monitoring of habitats throughout the life of the solar farm.

Whilst the solar farm is being installed, a traffic management plan will be in place to avoid disruption, including organising off-peak daytime deliveries.

It would take about three months to install the solar farm, averaging about six deliveries per day.

Once the solar farm is in place it requires very little maintenance and the occasional visits in regular cars or 4x4s would cause no traffic disruption at all.

Access to the site during installation will be via the track to the South West, off Morton/Stretton Road.

Due to the numerous opportunities that this development will present to the local community, Lightsource is looking for the following regional expertise to get involved:- Local residents to provide input into the initial design and planning - Wildlife enthusiasts – solar farms provide excellent opportunities to enhance biodiversity and support local initiatives - Residents with local knowledge which will help inform the route of daytime deliveries whilst the solar farm is being installed - Security personnel

- Civil roadways experts - Storage and logistics businesses - Fencing experts - Accommodation & food and beverage providers - Landscapers specialising in local/native species Conor concludes: “In addition to gaining important feedback from the surrounding community, we want to give residents an opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the development or solar energy in general. It is still early days for the proposals, which is why we are keen for local businesses, residents and wildlife enthusiasts to

get involved to shape these plans. We would also encourage anyone who can’t attend the community event to visit our website where the plans can be viewed and suggestions for the proposals can be put forward.”

Residents wishing to view the initial proposal in more detail or make suggestions to the Lightsource Planning team can visit the Planning Portal at: www. lightsource-re.co.uk, click ‘In-House Planning’ and type the site name “Averill Farm” into the search box. An online feedback form is also available on the page.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 17.

A STRATEGY TO END COLD HOMES FOR GOOD Today’s new Fuel Poverty Strategy sets out a revolutionary approach to identifying and targeting England’s energy inefficient homes.

Future Governments will now, for the first time, be required by law to tackle fuel poverty by making the coldest, leakiest homes in England more energy efficient.

This new Fuel Poverty Strategy – the first for over a decade – outlines challenges and actions for the next 15 years to ensure future Governments take the right steps to tackle fuel poverty and get help to those who need it most.

A new legally binding target – in force since December 2014 – is at the heart of the new strategy. It requires a minimum standard of energy efficiency (Band C) for as many fuel poor homes as reasonably practicable by 2030.

Early measures to tackle the problem of fuel poverty and hit the new target include: • New regulations so from April 2018 private landlords cannot rent out energy inefficient properties (homes with Energy Performance ratings below ‘E’); • Tackling the problem of fuel poverty in off gas grid properties with a new £25 million fund to help people install central heating systems for the first time; • Extending the successful ECO scheme to 2017, so that a further 500,000 properties will be made cheaper and easier to heat, building on the one million homes that ECO and the Green Deal have helped in the last 2 years.

The strategy prepares the ground for future new measures with a series of pilots focused on priority areas, ranging from health aspects of fuel poverty through to specific housing types like off gas grid properties and park homes.

A £3 million pot for such pilots will see £1 million released immediately to scale up local ‘warmthon-prescription’ projects to help primary healthcare professionals such as GPs play a much larger part in tackling fuel poverty. In the coming months up to £2 million more will be released to support innovation pilots, not just in health but also for off gas grid, park homes and community energy approaches.

Unveiling the strategy, Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey said:

“TODAY MARKS A CRUCIAL STEP TOWARDS A FUTURE FREE FROM COLD HOMES AND BLOATED ENERGY BILLS IN ENGLAND.” “We now have a legally binding commitment to plug our draughtiest houses – adding to the 1 million homes we’ve made warmer and cheaper to heat.

“From tackling fuel poverty in the private rented sector to facing up properly to the challenges of rural off gas grid fuel poverty, this strategy marks a significant change from the old approach.

“Yet even as we implement new regulations and new spending priorities to make homes warmer, we are planning for the next phase of cutting fuel poverty, with a series of key pilots, especially into the link between improving health and cutting fuel poverty.”

Households in fuel poverty in the least energy efficient homes (Bands F and G) typically face energy costs that are £1,000 more than those in higher quality homes. To help focus

support where it is needed most, the strategy introduces interim milestones to get as many as fuel poor homes as reasonably practicable up to a minimum energy efficiency rating of Band E by 2020 and Band D by 2025.

Minister for Energy and Climate Change Amber Rudd: “We want the fall in levels of fuel poverty seen under this Government to continue - so that cold homes are gone for good.

“That’s the future we’re presenting, alongside our ambitious targets, so even more households can join the 1 million homes already reaping the benefits of lower energy bills and warmer homes this winter.”

Last month, the Government laid draft regulations to introduce minimum energy

efficiency standards that will see up to 1 million people renting from private landlords benefit from warmer and cheaper to heat homes. Many of the poorest tenants will benefit and, with Government support, landlords can improve their properties at no upfront cost – and landlords will only have to make improvements that are cost-effective. This will be backed by a new law to give tenants the right from April 2016 to request consent for improvements that the landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.

Nearly 2 million heating and energy efficiency measures have already been installed across the country. With ECO being extended to 2017 an extra half a million people will be able to keep warm for less, including many lowincome, vulnerable households. This is on top of half a billion pounds of investment in energy

efficiency schemes over three years, including the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund.

Dr Tim Ballard, Vice-Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: “The Royal College of GPs welcomes this new fuel poverty strategy. It marks an important turning point in acting on what we have known for some time: that cold homes contribute to the most vulnerable people being unhealthy and can even be lethal for them.

“The new strategy provides a long-term framework in which the health sector has a vital role to play, in partnership with Government.

The new funding for health-related pilot projects is especially needed and will help build the case for more investment to cut the cost of warmth and help reduce the burden of cold homes on the health service.”

Page 18. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Leading Laser Hair Removal Clinic Centros Unico comes to Derby

Europe’s number one laser hair removal and aesthetic clinic has opened its doors in Derby. Centros Unico is based on the first floor of Derby’s Intu shopping centre in the prime location of the upper West Mall and adjacent to the Food Court. Clients have the luxury of popping out for a spot of shopping, bite to eat and indulging in a range of treatments including beautifying Botox.

The driving force behind the Derby franchise is husband and wife team Katherine and John Bale.

They opened the clinic after extensive research in the laser hair removal sector and within three months, Centros Unico Derby was born. With Katherine’s Colombian

and John’s Irish roots, the dynamic duo bring a wealth of cultural experience to Centros Unico Derby. Top of the list is providing only the best laser hair removal treatments in their Harley Street style clinic.

Katherine said, ‘We are passionate about bringing luxurious, high-end laser therapy to the high street.

We want everyone to feel and look their very best and Centros Unico is about empowering the customer to help them achieve this.

We really care about our customers both during and after treatment.’

The excellent customer care is evident from the thoughtful starter kit provided by the store, which contains goggles

to protect the eyes, removable personal plastic tip (to eliminate any cross contamination) and versatile post-laser cream in the form of moisturiser with aloe vera and fragrant rosehip oil.

The team consists of three full-time qualified therapists who have undergone intensive training at the Centros Unico Centre in London, along with John and Katherine as Directors and a peripatetic aesthetic doctor.

The doctor administers treatments such as Aqualyx fat removal injections, Botox, facial fillers and facial peels that alleviate sun damage, acne, fine lines and uneven pigmentation.

There are a whole host

of treatments available including 3D Facial Radiesse Remodelling and Pulsonic Facials. With laser hair removal therapy, a suction system lightly raises the skin and gently opens the pores. The high powered laser is attracted to the melanin in the hair, eradicating the root and over time, giving rise to finer hair with eventual permanent hair loss.

This laser hair therapy is suitable for all skin types including tanned skin. If you have sensitive skin or a skin disorder such as eczema, the laser used is effective and kind.

Using only leading-edge technology, this specialist laser machine is different from the pedestrian IPL. Instead of a monthly visit for IPL treatments, you

generally only need to visit the Centros Unico clinic once every three months and the sensation is practically pain-free. In addition, a lower number of sessions is needed and the result is usually permanent.

Unico’s laser hair removal treatments. Such benefits include smoother skin and visible results from the first session. Centros Unico have 140 stores world-wide and Derby is only one of eight stores in the UK.

The Lightsheer Duet is the best laser system available. It treats larger areas such as legs or the back in a 20 to 30 minute session that is comfortable and pain-free, perfect in the run-up to that holiday or wedding. All laser hair removal treatments are signed off by specialist Centros Unico doctors who ensure that treatments are all quality assured.

Gift cards are available for that thoughtful present for a loved one, or simply for a treat for you.

There are a myriad reasons why customers are flocking for Centros

To invest in yourself and book a beautifying treatment with a difference, call Centros Unico Derby now on 01332 289 800.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 19.

We take care of you LASER HAIR REMOVAL · AESTHETIC MEDICINE

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Page 20. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

86% of parents in the Midlands are bailing their children out of debt With the increase in rental prices and fewer jobs available to young people, more children are relying financially on their parents than ever before.[1] A study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals that 86 per cent of parents in the Midlands admit to helping their children, 18 or over, out of debt in hard times.

A further 63 per cent of parents still have their children, 18 or over, living at home without charging them rent to ease the financial strain on their kids.

The research also reveals that around half of parents feel they weren’t taught enough about money management by their own parents, which in turn has had a knock-on effect on the way their own children manage their finances. A further 35 per cent of parents confessed they could have taught their children more about money management.

as ‘thrifty’.

When asked what they believe to be the most effective way of teaching children about money management, more than half of parents claim giving their children an allowance and making them budget their own spending has been the best approach. This compares to a quarter of parents who’ve used household tasks such as grocery shopping to teach their children about money management.

Other key findings reveal that: •

•

•

More than two-thirds of parents in the Midlands confess they would not trust their children with their personal credit card Around half of parents believe that the best age to teach children about managing their finances is between 6 and 10 57 per cent parents do not think their children know how to budget their finances effectively

However, 65 per cent of parents feel they’ve taught their children enough about managing their finances to become financially independent. The full set of statistics for the East and West A quarter of parents say their children are ‘savvy Midlands are displayed in the infographics below: savers’ and 18 per cent even describe their kids

BRIAN THOMAS

KIDS FOOTBALL HEADBOARDS Bedtime becomes fun for the young football fan with our handcrafted football themed metal headboards.

DERBY COUNTY FOOTBALL CLUB

Our headboards are available in a large selection of colours including multi-colour designs and come with your choice of football club badge or personalised badge.

Headboards sizes are 2’6’’ or 3’0’’ wide x 20’’ high.

We can produce any colour combination of your choice.

All our headboards are made to order in our own workshops and are manufactured from quality materials all sourced within the UK.

Tel: 01243 378930 www.kidsfootballheadboards.com E-mail: b.thomas124@btinternet.com

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 21.

Elen Studio Photography Baby Shoots

Multiple award-winning master photographer Elena Bocharnikova offers a truly unique and professional boutique baby photography service, straight out of her home studio in Derby.

Winner of the ‘Under 5’s Portrait Photographer’ in both 2013 and ’14, Elena’s inspiration for the photo sessions came during her own pregnancy, where she was disappointed to find that many runof-the-mill baby shoots just offered a plain, ‘whitebackground’ theme.

With this in mind, Elena set out creating some stunning boutique baby snaps. Elena’s studio is bursting with delicate props, toys, fluffy knitted hats, fabrics, comfortable little baskets, colourful backdrops and just about everything needed for the most adorable and professional baby shoot. She even has specially-made head-bands and skirts for the girls, and knitted shorts and ties for the boys. All of this is provided for the shoot, you don’t have to pay an extra penny!

Elena offers three types of shoot which capture the journey of those important, fleeting stages as your baby grows up: Capture the first few weeks with the ‘Newborn Shoot’, see how much they have grown and how much fun they have with props and chairs in a ‘Six Months+’ Shoot, and finally, have your little

one in for their ‘1st Birthday Cake Smash’ Shoot. For all of the experiences, you are welcome to choose your own theme which utilises the provided props, clothes and backgrounds, or if you are unsure, just discuss this with Elena, and you can work together to finally create a unique set of photographs.

You can rest assured that you are in safe hands too, as Elena is a full-time photographer (Elen Studio Photography) who shares her life-affirming wedding, engagement, newborn, baby and family photography with people across Derbyshire and the rest of the Midlands. With her, you have a friend for life!

COMMUNITIES URGED TO CLUB TOGETHER FOR GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL

Communities are being encouraged to club together to support local football teams, to give youngsters the chance to win a training session with ex-premier league superstars, Ryan Giggs and Nicky Butt.

The ‘Club Together’ initiative, created by Topps, publisher of Match Attax - the world’s best-selling football trading card game - has been launched to support grassroots football clubs, community squads, school teams and school classes nationwide.

Teachers and coaches from youth teams in the area are invited to register their squad online at www. toppsfootball.co.uk and ask players, fans, families and locals to ‘club together’ to collect unique codes printed inside the packets of the new Match Attax Extra 2015 trading cards.

Collectors simply enter the codes online against their nominated local team name to enable their chosen squad to work their way up the leader board to win a series of prizes, including a training session with Manchester United stars Ryan Giggs and Nicky Butt, a week-long adventure holiday at Kingswood Camps, plus team kits, training equipment and more.

Rod Pearson, Marketing Director at Topps, explains: “Club Together offers a great incentive to get local residents, grassroots teams, community clubs, sports teams and Match Attax Extra collectors working together to support the footballing stars of the future.

“At Topps, we are dedicated to giving children the chance to benefit from our support and from the expertise of heroes and legends on the pitch. With such incredible prizes and opportunities available, there has never been a better time for local squads, school clubs and communities to team up to give passionate young footballers a chance to earn amazing experiences.”

Extra time Match Attax Extra will be on sale from 19 March at supermarkets, independent stores and newsagents.

Starter Packs (£3.99) contain everything needed to kick off straight away. Packets of 10 trading cards, each containing a unique Club Together code, will be available for £1. Multipacks of 5 packets are £5 and Tins are available for £5.99.

Featuring all-new cards, the hottest new premier League signings and brand new duo sets, as well as extra skills, extra players and extra power, the very latest Match Attax Extra trading card game set is a must-have for all Match Attax fans looking to boost their squads. Collectors can find squad updates, mega club captains and discover the new ‘100 Club’ player, too.

For further information about Topps Match Attax Extra and the Club Together promotion, please visit www.toppsfootball.co.uk. For the latest updates, follow @MyTopps on Twitter or visit https://www.facebook.com/MyTopps

Page 22. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Clear Conscience

NEW CONVENIENCE STORE OPENS IN BELPER

Clear Conscience is a proudly ethical online store that provides responsibly sourced products for babies and young children. From cute cotton t-shirts to panda print sleep-suits, Clear Conscience is your one-stop shop for your little one’s needs.

The store is the brainchild of Becky Lambert.

She had previously found it difficult to locate products that contained no animal ingredients or by-products, that had a zero animal testing policy and that had a low impact on the environment.

Becky is passionate and thorough, investigating each product line stocked at Clear Conscience to study the manufacturing companies’ track record in animal welfare.

A new McColl’s convenience store in Belper town opened its doors on 27 February 2015.

The modern store on Chestnut Avenue, close to the town centre has been completely refurbished since being bought by McColl’s and now stocks a wide range of fresh, chilled and frozen food, providing customers with all their mealtime needs. As well as grocery items, the store provides a range of food-to-go products, including sandwich meal deals and hot food. Great

Clear Conscience’s diverse offerings include reusable nappies and Children’s Aloe Vera Lotion.

With a whole product range dedicated to playtime, hours of fun can be guaranteed for your baby. For feeding time, the Crochet Bird Rattle is colourful and fun to handle, whilst the Bandana Bib doubles up as a functional, fashion-forward accessory to catch wayward dribble.

With one less thing to worry about, you can get a good night’s rest safe in the knowledge that your baby’s products have been ethically sourced.

If you care about your new-born, want to give it some extra TLC and change the world one babystep at a time, check out Clear Conscience now at www.clear-conscience.co.uk.

value deals are available across many products and these are regularly updated.

Beyond the wide product offering the store offers a host of neighbourhood services, such as Home News Delivery, an ATM machine, Paypoint, Collect+ and National Lottery+.

The McColl’s loyalty scheme called Plus is available in store, which gives members exclusive money-saving offers every time they shop, as well as access to exclusive prizes, competitions and rewards. Membership cards

are available in store.

Dave Thomas, Chief Operating Officer said: “We are really proud of our new store. It looks fantastic and it’s important as a retailer to be at the heart of the neighbourhood, providing a great service.”

The store took three months to transform and it opens from 6am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 7am 10pm Sunday.

OVER 60 EVENTS PLANNED FOR THE FIRST DERBY BOOK FESTIVAL Plans for Derby’s first Book Festival, to be held from 31 May to 7 June, are progressing well with an ambitious programme of over 60 events planned across the city. Derby City Council is delighted to be supporting the Festival and will host a number of events in the new Derby Arena, Riverside Chambers, Council Chamber, schools, libraries, adult learning centres, Guildhall Theatre and the Market Place.

The Festival will celebrate the joy of books and reading, from author talks, discussions, live performances and workshops for budding writers, to children’s book trails, storytelling, theatre performances and ‘Make It’ sessions. The programme includes internationally acclaimed writers as well as those with a Derby connection and will cover a range of interests including cycling, railways, football, cricket, climbing and photography.

Councillor Alison Martin, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture said: “The Festival organisers have put together a broad range of events and activities for all ages and interests, with something for everyone. We are very pleased that we are able to support the Festival by hosting events and providing funding from our Small Arts Grant. We hope the first Derby Book Festival will be a great success and will be a permanent fixture in the city’s growing festival calendar.”

All primary schools in the city have been invited to send pupils from Years 5 and 6 to meet Michael Morpurgo, best-selling author of War Horse and Private Peaceful, at an event sponsored by Hays Education in Derby Theatre, whilst secondary school pupils will have visits from young adult authors, Bali Rai and Paula Rawsthorne.

The newly opened Derby Arena will host The Guardian’s cycling correspondent and author William Fotheringham on Sunday 31 May where he will talk about his new book Bernard Hinault and the Fall and Rise of French Cycling. There will also be an opportunity to tour the Arena and have a session on a Wattbike.

The Local Studies Library, in its new home in Riverside Chambers, will be open on Saturday 6 June for events with BBC Radio 4 Bookclub and Front Row producer, Dymphna Flynn who will be talking about her experiences of producing Bookclub for 13 years with James Naughtie and

giving advice on setting up a reading group.

Joanna Czechowska, born and raised in Derby and now Book Reviewer and Chief Sub-Editor of Woman magazine will be talking about her books The Black Madonna of Derby and Sweetest which take their inspiration from her own memories of growing up in Derby in the 1960s and 1970s.

The Council Chamber will host a fascinating discussion between James Hanning, Deputy Editor of The Independent on Sunday and Neil White, Editor of the Derby Telegraph about James’ book The News Machine: Hacking, the Untold Story, written with Glenn Mulcaire.

Writing East Midlands will be holding an event with shortlisted authors for their prestigious Writing East Midlands Book Awards in Central Library on Sunday 7 June. Derby City libraries will also have visits from the Bookstart Bear and Andy Cope, author of children’s books Spydog and Spypups and crime novelist John Harvey will be visiting Mickleover Library on 1 June to talk about his Inspector Resnick novels. The Adult Learning Service will be running Go Digital! taster sessions to introduce people to using tablets and e-readers and download e-books.

Derby LIVE will host mountaineer Simon Yates at the Guildhall Theatre on Thursday 4 June talking about his climbing adventures 30 years since the publication of Touching the Void, his climbing partner Joe Simpson’s book about their successful but nearly fatal climb in the Andes in 1985.

There will be a range of activities for children and families in the Market Place on Saturday 6 June, including storytelling, the Bookstart Bear introducing the Library Services’ Summer Reading Challenge, a Book Doctor, a Human Library and Shakespeare activities with Derby Shakespeare Company and 1623 Theatre Company.

The Festival programme will be published on World Book Night, 23 April when the full list of events will be available and the QUAD box office opens. Some Festival events are already on sale at Derby LIVE, Derby Theatre and Déda.

To find out more about the Festival, visit: www.derbybookfestival.co.uk

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 23.

Page 24. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

RESIDENTS ASKED FOR THEIR VIEWS ON DOMESTIC ABUSE SERVICES IN DERBYSHIRE Residents are being asked for their views on domestic abuse services to help develop the support offered by Derbyshire County Council.

The county council already runs a number of services across Derbyshire and every year supports around 13,000 people affected by domestic abuse.

Abuse can come in many forms including physical, emotional, financial, psychological, sexual and socalled ‘honour based’ violence.

The council has organised the survey to check if there are any gaps in the programmes it offers, which includes one of the UK’s only male refuges.

The services currently available, which are jointly funded by the council and the Big Lottery Fund, include: • Independent domestic violence advisers and outreach workers to support people at risk of abuse • Support with alternative, safe accommodation for victims who need to leave home • Domestic abuse support services for children aged up to 18 • A voluntary programme to help male offenders stop abusive behaviour towards female partners

• The Derbyshire domestic abuse phone helpline Derbyshire County Council’s Strategic Director for Health and Communities David Lowe said: “We want to provide the best levels of support and advice for people at risk of domestic abuse.

“That’s why it’s important we get the views of residents who may have either used or may need support to help us develop future services.

“We want to find out what residents need and if there are any areas that could be improved.”

Last year Derbyshire police received more than 12,000 calls regarding domestic abuse – resulting in 1,223 convictions.

Surveys can be filled on online at www.derbyshire. gov.uk/daservices until the consultation ends on Friday 1 May. Paper copies are available by emailing community. safety@derbyshire.gov.uk or calling the council’s community safety team on 01629 538272.

Residents who are facing any issues can call the free Derbyshire Domestic Abuse 24-hour helpline on 0800 0198 668.

For more information about domestic abuse services in Derbyshire visit www.saferderbyshire.gov.uk

Derbyshire residents encouraged to protect their pensions Residents across Derbyshire are being can take to keep your future money safe from encouraged to protect their pensions from scammers. scammers.

"This includes never giving out personal or Derbyshire Constabulary is teaming up with financial information over the phone and always Get Safe Online as part of a targeted campaign checking the credentials of the company and aimed at raising awareness to help to protect its advisors. They should be registered with the people falling victim to pension fraud.

Financial Conduct Authority."

Pension fraudsters will contact their victims Other advice from the Pension Regulator's out of the blue, either over the phone, over text includes: message or in person, by offering deals that * Ask for a statement showing how your pension appear too good to miss. will be paid at retirement, and question who will They will often try to con their victims by claiming look after your money until then; that they will be able to access their pension * Speak to an adviser that is not associated pot before the age of 55, or by using incentives with the deal you’ve been offered, for unbiased such as upfront cash, a free 'pension review' or advice; offering 'one-off' investment opportunities. * Never be rushed into agreeing to a pension transfer.

Detective Constable Julie Wheeldon from the For information around frauds and scams visit East Midlands Fraud and Financial Investigation the dedicated Stamp out Fraud in Derbyshire Unit said: "Fraudsters can appear highly webpage at www.derbyshire.police.uk/ convincing so it is important that you look out stampoutfraud<http://www.derbyshire.police.uk/ for the warning signs to help to keep yourself, stampoutfraud>. friends and family safe.

If you have lost money to pension fraud report "Some signs to look out for include a call, email or it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or www.actionfraud.police.uk<http://www. text claiming to be from the government offering visit retirement planning advice, being offered upfront actionfraud.police.uk>. cash incentives by pushy advisors, or being If you have been cold called and suspect it was a promised that you would be able to access your scam report it to the Financial Conduct Authority personal or company pension before a certain online at www.fca.org.uk/consumers/scams/ report-scam/investment-scams-form<http:// age. www.fca.org.uk/consumers/scams/report"Please remember if something sounds too scam/investment-scams-form> or by good to be true then more often than not it is. contacting their Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 Thankfully, there are simple steps that you 6768.

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Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 25.

Page 26. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Weddings www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

The UK's wedding industry is worth more than £10 billion a year which makes it an expensive and often stressful occasion for which to plan.

It should go without saying that planning is key… from sorting out everything from the engagement announcement to the big day and the honeymoon could take many months or planning…or even more.

One of the most important considerations is the location that the wedding itself and a lot of thought and planning must go into getting the right venue.

According to the weddings website Hitched W.I.F.E. here are some top tips for choosing the perfect wedding venue: • •

Ensure it fits within your wedding budget View the venue to make sure it will fit the capacity of your guest list • Sign a contract once you’re happy with the terms and conditions being offered • Don’t hand over a deposit unless you’re 100% sure of your wedding date and the details of your day and finally • Be sure that you are both happy and comfortable with your chosen wedding venue choice The same website also revealed that when it comes to UK weddings, we are a nation of traditionalists with 78 per cent of brides surveyed saying they would follow the “something old,

something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition for their big day.

It is thought that wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue will bring good luck to the bearer and can include anything and everything from jewellery to headwear, an old wedding dress, a blue garter and more!

The 2014 Wedding Report from confetti.co.uk showed that the top three venues were churches, hotels and castles followed by registry office weddings and then weddings abroad.

The average age for a groom is 30 with the bride 28 and, on average, UK couples will have spent 2.5 years living together before tying the knot.

The most popular wedding tradition is cutting the cake and the most popular honeymoon destinations are Mexico, Mauritius and the Maldives.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 27.

Page 28. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 29.

Whats On www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Calder Finance (Midlands) Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Network Direct Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority We’re celebrating our new offices with a

FREE CLINIC DAY ON TUESDAY 21ST APRIL, 2015 To book your free, no obligation clinic day meeting, please choose the option that best suits you.

Please phone: 01283 733964 Visit: www.calderfinance.co.uk/clinicdays or Email: enquires@calderfinance.co.uk

THE CALDER GROUP Tom Buck of Calder Finance (Midlands) Ltd, is inviting you to select a time that best suits to find out more in a relaxed atmosphere or if you are unable to make the day call for a specific appointment. As a family man I understand how important it is plan and protect where possible your loved ones.

This FREE clinic is aimed at providing you with information so that you are able to make an informed choice on how you wish your estate to benefit those you love and want to provide for.

Calder Finance (Midlands) Ltd can help you plan and protect IF: • You are unhappy with the fees that are taken from your pension on an annual basis • You want your money to work harder and see a higher return on your savings • You need your investments to be safe and guaranteed • You want to know how to improve the return on your investments whilst reducing risk • You need to know which is the better option for you or how to ensure your current pension is

performing Areas we can inform and will help guide you on will cover:• Give guidance on how to legally reduce the Tax your estate would pay after death • Ensure your wishes are followed after death by having a current and legally correct will in place • Property, protecting the family home and plan for your future • Trusts, how to and when not to use them Please note: Not all products are regulated by the FCA

We’re celebrating our new offices with a FREE CLINIC DAY ON TUESDAY 21ST APRIL, 2015

THE TAXING QUESTIONS Is your Estate planned to minimise Tax implications?

Will your Will look after your loved ones?

Are you paying too much?

This FREE clinic is aimed at providing you with information so that you are able to make an informed choice on how you wish your estate to benefit those you love and want to provide for.

We are confident in the help our business can offer you and your loved ones and therefore offer these no obligation, no charge meetings for an initial discussion.

We can help you plan and protect IF: • Y o u a re u n h a p p y w ith th e fe e s th a t a re ta k e n fro m y o u r p e n sio n o n a n a n n u a l b a sis • Y o u w a n t y o u r m o n e y to w o rk h a rd e r a n d se e a h ig h e r re tu rn o n y o u r sa v in g s • Y o u n e e d y o u r in v e stm e n ts to b e sa fe a n d g u a ra n te e d • Y o u w a n t to k n o w h o w to im p ro v e th e re tu rn o n y o u r in v e s tm e n ts w h ils t r e d u c in g r is k • Y o u n e e d t o k n o w w h ic h is t h e b e t t e r o p t io n f o r y o u o r h o w t o e n s u r e y o u r c u r r e n t p e n s io n is p e r f o r m in g

Areas we can inform and will help guide you on will cover:• G iv e g u id a n c e o n h o w to le g a lly r e d u c e th e T a x y o u r e s ta te w o u ld p a y a fte r d e a th

It will cost you nothing to find out how prepared your estate is and we will even offer you a warming refreshing drink whilst we chat.

We are holding the meetings on Tuesday 21st April 2015 at our new offices:- The Old Vicarage, Castle Donnington and would

• Ensure your wishes are followed after death by having a

current and legally correct will in place • P r o p e r ty , p r o te c tin g th e fa m ily h o m e a n d p la n fo r y o u r fu tu re • Trusts, how to and when not to use them

like to offer your family the chance to attend. Timeslots are limited so we can ensure that everyone receives our full attention.

To book your free, no obligation clinic day meeting, please choose the option that best suits you.

Please phone: 01283 733964 Visit: www.calderfinance.co.uk/clinicdays or Email: enquires@calderfinance.co.uk Calder Finance (Midlands) Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Network Direct Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some products such as Will services

er answ s’ u o y on help questi n a g c We e taxin t‘ h

Page 30. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

THE RETURN OF THE SOULVILLE STEAKHOUSE

At the bottom of the historic Falcon Yard on the corner of South Street sits The Soulville Steakhouse.

After five years in the centre of Nottingham, this classic old school eatery finally branched out and opened a second restaurant in Chesterfield’s iconic former Green Room. That was three years ago and since then over a hundred thousand diners have sampled the unique culinary experience that the “Soulville” provides.

The restaurants strapline is simple, “Finger Lickin’ Food – Finger Clickin’ Music” and that is exactly what you get!

Your personally tailored experience begins the second you walk through the door, you choose your table, each one named after a famous Soul singer or group of yesteryear with an accompanying biography to read (when you can tear yourself away from the menu!), you choose your drink, bought swiftly to the table by your drinks waitress, you choose your food, all freshly cooked on the premises by their team of experienced chefs and finally, whilst waiting for your food to arrive piping hot at the table, you choose what you want to hear from the selection of vinyl Soul and Motown classics on our “free

play” 1960’s Wurlitzer jukebox.

The décor is a nostalgic walk down memory lane, a gallery of musical greats in an extensive collection of black and white pictures, billboard posters and original song sheets adorn the walls. The bar has a comprehensive selection of reasonably priced beers, wines and spirits to suit every taste. The friendly knowledgeable staff are always on hand, whether that’s to help you choose the best cut of steak or the best track on the jukebox. The music, well, that has never been and probably never will be beaten……but the food, that’s what the “Soulville” is all about, all steaks are prime British beef, everything else, from the Buffalo wings and battered Creole chicken to the baby back ribs and Cajun tuna steak have a more distinctly American feel, but, regardless of origin, absolutely everything on the menu is prepared and cooked in house to “Soulville’s” own unique recipes.

With a set two/three course lunchtime menu from only £7.95, a generous children’s menu and substantial discounts on the extensive a la carte dinnertime menu every day of the week, The Soulville Steakhouse is the perfect destination for any occasion, it doesn’t have to be special…..we’ll take care of that!!

The Great British Food Festival is BACK at Hardwick Hall

The Great British Food Festival is back at Hardwick Hall this May Bank Holiday, Sat May 2nd over the weekend to Bank Holiday Monday, May 4th.

The recipe for the weekend, well take over 80 top local and artisan producers, a big serving of stunning hot food, add a dash of real ale and wine bars, kids cookery lessons and lots of children’s activities, top chef demos from the likes of Great British Bake Off finalists Howard Middleton, Luis Troyano and Master Chefs Luke Owen, stir in a cake competition and the popular Men V’s Food, with lashings of excellent live music and mix together to make a lovely foodie family day out.

The main chef demo area hosts great local and tv chefs, all demos are free (as part of your admission ticket) to enter so everyone can pick up top foodie tips. There are also regular Artisan Foodie talks and the popular Great British Cake

off and Men V’s Food for you to get involved with!

The Great British Food Festival has attracted lots of producers showcasing the best in local, seasonal and speciality food and drink. It’s a great opportunity to get a real taste of the best of Derbyshire and Great British produce - sample, enjoy and buy. With Great Britain’s amazing mix of cultures and cuisines we thought it would be a shame to overlook some more exotic elements - so you can try Thai, Mexican, Asian as well as pulled pork, prime steak, and the best local burgers and sausages, for those with more traditional tastes!

After you’ve done your foodie shopping, sit out enjoying tasty hot food, a refreshing drink (or two), with great live music in the stunning surroundings of Hardwick Hall.

The perfect recipe for a fun, foodie day out for the whole family.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 31.

Page 32. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

TV’S MICHAELA’S JOY AT NATURE GALLERY

Michaela Strachan thinks the new gallery is amazing “I think it’s really amazing what they have done with what is quite a small space. They’ve made it interesting, they’ve made it different.” Michaela Strachan has made a career of trying to enthuse young people about the natural world. She is talking about her visit to Derby Museum to open the new natural history gallery with the theme Notice Nature Feel Joy. “They’ve thought out of the box a bit and I think that’s because they’ve had a collaboration of people doing it,” she adds, still with a hint of ‘kid in a sweet shop’ in her voice.

The new gallery was opened, at the end of March, the culmination of a ten-month project involving museum staff and a team of volunteers, many of them students at the University of Derby, all of them throwing ideas into the pot. The Derby public, too, were involved as visitors have watched the gallery develop as

they passed through.

All ideas were taken on board says the project’s creative leader, Andrea Hadley-Johnson.

“It’s fantastic because when we developed the exhibition we decided that we wouldn’t hide it away until it was finished. We barriered it so people were safe, but we allowed people in, we

talked to people and we continued that dialogue, so all of our visitors have been part of this, they have seen it emerging.

“We had around forty volunteers who worked with us week by week.

Lots of young people coming through from their biology and science courses, but also the arts courses. We have had a student scientist who has extracted DNA from a specimen, which was great. That demonstrates that our collection is relevant scientifically today, it is not just of historical interest.”

The museum set up a project lab and canvassed opinion to find out what people wanted to see in a natural history gallery. “The formative dialogue stage lasted about a month,” said Andrea, “and we took all of those responses and ideas and we worked with our team of volunteers to make sense of it and develop this space, the layout and position of all of

A crow skeleton exhibit

Visitors examine the beetles display the specimens and allow those themes to come through in the display. We hope visitors will be inspired by our amazing collection and have a desire to learn about and protect the natural world.”

The essence of the gallery is for visitors to get close to the specimens, to be able to walk around them and study them from all angles. Michaela Strachan thought this was an exciting way to display museum exhibits. “The one thing I hate about museums is when it is rows and rows of stuffy old cabinets. This shows it doesn’t need to be like that, it can be modern and different, and I like it! I like the space, it’s a very nice comfortable space. You could sit in here and look at things for a

while instead of being shuffled t h r o u g h like some museums are.

“I don’t work in the museum industry, but I imagine that if you have been in museums a long time you probably get quite traditional about how you do things, but if you bring in the other students all those other ideas get talked about and they’ve created this, which I think is great.”

Councillor Alison Martin, cabinet member for Leisure and Culture, was also thrilled with the new gallery. “It’s great to see the museum going from strength to

strength,” she said.

“The gallery has been done in a really accessible and tasteful way.”

The gallery was full of visitors as Ms Strachan declared it open. Andrea Hadley-Johnson was delighted with the public response. “It’s been amazing, people were queuing to get in. To see people in the space today is just wonderful.”

Tony Butler (Derby Museum), Michaela Strachan, Andrea Hadley-Johnson (Derby Museum project leader) and Cllr Alison Martin

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT Betfred Midlands Grand National, Uttoxeter Racecourse, Saturday, 14 March All the facts (and figures) are starting to add-up to another memorable day of racing at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Saturday 14 March, when more than 16,000 people will once again converge on the famous Staffordshire course for a full race-card of 8 races, including the one-and-only Betfred Midlands Grand National.

While the racecourse itself measures 1 mile 2½ furlongs, the Midlands Grand National is an endurance race over 4 miles, one furlong and 110 yards. It has been won for the last 4 years by trainer David Pipe.

The total prize fund, which helps to make this such a tremendous “day at the races” is £166,000 - of which £100,000, alone, will be on offer to the owners of the 20 horses involved in this year’s year Midlands Grand National.

Up in the stands, 1,118 three-course meals will be served to the guests enjoying full hospitality; while - all around the racecourse - an estimated 5,256 glasses of champagne will be quaffed from 876 bottles; 12,564 glasses of wine will be poured from 2,094 bottles; and 50,000 pints of beer will be pulled.

More than 85 race horses will be comfortably accommodated in Uttoxeter’s 102 stables; while around 50 jockeys will jostle for position both in the weighing room, and out on the course itself.

And more than 420 staff - including stewards, hospitality, management, security, vets, officials, tote and bookmakers - will help to ensure that everyone at this year’s event will be kept thoroughly entertained and most of all safe.

It’s one of the most colourful and spectacular days out on the annual Midlands calendar and the second largest steeplechase in the UK, after the Aintree Grand National.

Away from the course itself, a full programme of entertainment and activities will include everything from a strong line-up of local bands, to Titan the Robot. Best of all, perhaps, the well-known radio and TV pundit Derek “Tommo” Thompson has agreed to pass-on his knowledge to race-goers in the parade ring during a not-tobe-missed guide to all of the runners and riders in this year’s star race.

Entrance to this year’s Betfred Midlands Grand National starts from £14, but a full range of hospitality packages are also available.

For further information and to book tickets online, visit www.uttoxeter-racecoure.co.uk (Tel: 01889 562561).

Tickets can also be purchased on the day at the entrance.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 33.

Strongman Limited This is for a new world record I am going to be setting hopefully with one or even two more. This is for RECORD HOLDERS REPUBLIC WORLD CUP CHALLENGE between India,, America and the U K the country who does the most world records before 31st July wins the cup, I have a total of 80 world records with Guinness and R H R and I am going for another 7 records. In 22 years nobody as ever challenged any of my world records. Coming up to my 68th birthday event on the 28th March again I will be head balancing double beds, pine wardrobe chest of draws bunk beds and 200 tins of pet food all for a a great cause THE DERBY ROYAL INTENSIVE CAR UNIT see my poster on www.headbalancer.com I have travelled the world in the last 22 years breaking records and I always mention that I am from Ilkeston Derbyshire U K. This will most likely be my final year to retire unbeaten and to have my name printed in all the main record keeping history books I will leave a proud man to have achieved this. Age catches up with everything and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be doing shows

when I past it I feel fine at the moment and looking forward to being the best in the world again is a great feeling. In the last 22 years I have organised hundreds of charity events and raised well over ÂŁ200.000 for charity.

This year I am really hoping this will be a success because I have put a lot into this see poster.

New world records planed before 31st July 2015 for John Evans Balance two lawn mowers on stand whilst going shredding paper 2 points Balance 24 tables. 1 points large Water tank point 1 points

1

mobile Toilet 1 point Scaffolding tower 1 point at Newport

Pagnell carnival Break record balance 12 tyres Newport Pagnell carnival

2 points

27 Gorilla tubs at Newport pagnall carnival 8 points

Page 34. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

FROM WIMBLEDON TO THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS FOOTBALLER TURNED HOLLYWOOD SUPERSTAR, VINNIE JONES IS COMING TO LEICESTER TO HOST AN EXCLUSIVE INTIMATE BLACK TIE DINNER. The world is full of hard men, but few have made a career as successful, or varied as former Crazy Gang member Vinnie Jones.

Vinnie is to host an intimate black tie dinner at The Maher Centre, Leicester, on May 2, which will include a question and answer session on a life journey that took him from the football pitches of England to the Hollywood Hills.

Wimbledon FC was where the former hod carrier’s full-time professional career began. defensive midfield was his position, a role ideally suited to Vinnie’s temperament, as a tough tackling, no nonsense player.

He holds the record for the quickest ever booking in a football match, being booked after just three seconds for a foul on Sheffield United’s Dane Whitehouse, during an FA Cup game in 1992.

As well as Wimbledon, Vinnie has played for Leeds United, Sheffield United, Chelsea, and had a brief spell on the international stage with Wales.

After his career as a footballer wound down Jones capitalised on this hard man image to become a Hollywood star, making his film debut in Guy Ritchie’s gangster movie., Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

He has since starred in a secong Guy Ritchie film, Snatch, as well as Gone in 60 Seconds, X Men: The Last Stand and a remake of Mean Machine.

Vinnie Jones will also reveal about his colourful and sometimes controversial personal life which has seen him move to LA, become a contestant on Celebrity Big Brother, be convicted for an air rage incident and beat skin cancer in 2013.

Speaking ahead of the event Vinnie Jones said: “I am really looking forward to coming back to the UK in spring for my tour, especially the Leicester date as I am looking forward to settling an old score with Leicester’s hard man Steve Walsh.”

For more information on this event and all details for purchasing your ticket visit: www.kkongevents.co.uk or email: info@kkongevents.co.uk Alternatively call 0116 303 3289.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 35.

Adrenaline Productions proudly presents

Pop Factor, The Concert Creatively written and designed by Jonathan Mawson & Hayley-jane Simmons; copyright 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.

Produced by Adrenaline Productions Ltd. Musical Arrangements by Darren John Martyn, Casting Director: Benjamin Newsome Casting Visiting: Lichfield Garrick - 29th March 01543 412121 Guildhall Theatre, Derby - 31st March 01332 255800 Palace Theatre Mansfield - 9th April 01623 412951 Theatre Royal Wakefield - 10th April 01924 211311 Pomegranate Chesterfield- 25th May 01246 345222 Tickets: start from £10 Family tickets available CALLING ALL POP FANS! A show that’s a celebration of the top artists and biggest chart hits! It’s your very own pop concert!

Totally live and interactive, featuring a cast of top professional performers, Pop Factor takes you partying on a non-stop, high energy ride that’ll leave you dancing and singing all night!

We challenge anyone to come along and be able to sit still!

Featuring meet & greets with the cast after the show! Competitions with prize giveaways, plus photo opportunities and autographs! “...It’s like a fun night out, but for kids...” “...an incredibly talented cast of professional dancer/singers had the entire audience on their feet...”

Featuring the Pop Factor cast – a vibrant professional ensemble. They sing and dance their way through this interactive feel-good concert show with amazing energy, pausing only to invite audience sing-alongs, hold competitions with willing audience members onstage and then get down and party in the aisles! It’s a get-up and join-in party that leaves the audience calling for more! “...I have seldom seen such a wonderful audience reaction...”

Martin Costello - Broadway Theatre Manager, Catford “…The choice of up to the minute hits was perfect…”

Mary Zoeller, Epsom Playhouse Pop Factor is the brainchild of West End performer Jonathan Mawson (Legally Blonde) & acclaimed choreographer Hayley-jane Simmons.

Previously collaborating on the original 2010 UK tour of High School Rocks, they have continued their partnership to develop this exciting new show!

Musical direction is overseen by Darren John Martyn, a talented performer in his own right Darren is currently appearing in Andrew Lloyd-Webbers Starlight Express, in Bochum. He brings his soulful musical twist to create unique vocal arrangements and rocking musical mash-ups!

Casting is handled by Benjamin Newsome Casting, who was shortlisted Top 10 UK Casting Director 2014 Awards. He has a string of successful credits ranging from film, through to West End fringe and UK tours.

Previous cast members are now appearing on The Voice (BBC1), Mamma Mia, (International Tour), We Will Rock You (International Tour) Thriller (West End), Miss Saigon (West End) & Godspell (UK Tour) & Annie (Dubai), Drawing on the cultural phenomenon of a TV generation and inspired by the massive repertoire of current chart hits, Pop Factor has been brought to life as a fun, interactive, concert style show with bags of audience participation guaranteed to have you singing and dancing all night! “...absolutely brilliant! Would definitely recommend such a fabulous idea for the younger ones. We knew every song and sang our hearts out...yes including me...” Fiona Welburn For further information, interviews, photographs and competitions please contact Jonathan Mawson on: Telephone: 07894 135629 (mobile) Email: jonathan@adrenaline-productions.co.uk www.popfactor.org UK Tour Dates for Easter & May Half-Term 2015 26/03/15 27/03/15 28/03/15 29/03/15 30/03/15 31/03/15 01/04/15 02/04/15 04/04/15 07/04/15 08/04/15 09/04/15 10/04/15 11/04/15 12/04/15 15/04/15 16/04/15 18/04/15 19/04/15 23/05/15 24/05/15 25/05/15 26/05/15 27/05/15 28/05/15 29/05/15 30/03/15 31/05/15

Marine Hall Fleetwood The Coliseum Aberdare Victoria Hall Settle The Garrick Lichfield Grand Theatre Swansea Guildhall Theatre Derby Venue Cymru Llandudno Spa Theatre Bridlington Swan Theatre High Wycombe Thameside Theatre Grays Broadway Theatre Catford Palace Theatre Mansfield Theatre Royal Wakefield Marina Theatre Lowestoft Kenneth More Ilford Lighthouse Theatre Poole White Rock Theatre Hastings Lyric Theatre Carmarthen Capitol Theatre Horsham Lyceum Theatre Crewe Princess Theatre Hunstanton The Pomegranate Chesterfield Epsom Playhouse Epsom Grove Theatre Dunstable City Hall Salisbury Plowright Theatre Scunthorpe The Maltings Berwick-upon-Tweed The Playhouse Whitley Bay

Page 36. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

NK MOTORS - KIA

DOUBLE DISCOUNT SALES EVENT For three days in March, NK Motors will be holding a special double discount sales event to celebrate 10 years at Pride Park. On Friday 20th, Satrurday 21st and Sunday 22nd March, you will be able to get the lowest price possible on the car of your choice.

Benefits of the weekend During the weekend not only is there a double discount on all makes and models, there is also: 12 months warranty with every used car, a free M.O.T for life with every car and a complimentary two week gym and spa pass for two people with every car, plus refreshments flowing throughout the three days.

This will be a fantastic event and a chance to get a really great deal on a brand new Kia or one of their used vehicles; with a choice of over 300 cars in stock. What is more, there will be a champagne breakfast on Saturday 21st from 9:00 am untill 11:30 am and Sunday 22nd from 10:00 am untill 11:30 am in keeping with the celebratory spirit!

NK Motors are also looking to increase their stock of quality used cars so are looking to take your vehicle in part exchange for your new car by offering you that little bit extra. They are also happy to buy your car without you purchasing another vehicle. So, why not join the team at NK Motors with champagne and canapés. If you would like to attend this special event call the event team on the number below or email them at vipevents@nkmotors.com or simply turn up on the day to NK Motors Pride Park. You can find NK Motors at 2 Orient Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8BY. For further information, telephone their events team on 01332 388905. You can also visit their website at www.nkmotors.com

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE COUNTY SHOW NOTTINGHAMSHIRE COUNTY SHOW CELEBRATES 132ND YEAR WITH ITS BEST YET From high adrenaline BMX motocross to the popular dog and duck show, this year’s Nottinghamshire County Show will be the best yet.

In its 132nd year and taking place on 9 and 10 May at Newark showground, the show is one of the most prestigious county shows in the country and will be jam packed with activities to keep all ages happy.

“No matter what age, the show offers an exciting day out for everyone to see, experience, and taste the best of Nottinghamshire – be it entertainers, farmers, producers or retailers.”

Visitors will be able to experience hundreds of attractions including the vast lines of livestock,

superb equine including Heavy Horse classes, big events such as headline act Broke FMX and Savage Skills, live cookery demonstrations and a range of local stalls.

As well as being a great day out for family, the show is a must-attend event for farmers and businesses.

Tickets cost £15 on the gates or £10 for advance tickets online. Under 17’s go free.

Advance tickets are available to book online via the website – http://www. nottinghamshirecountyshow.com/the-show/ buy-tickets/

2 pairs of adult tickets up for grabs For your chance to win simply answer the following questions correctly:

1 – When is the show taking place?

2 – How many years has the show been running?

3 – Under what age do you get FREE entry?

Email entries to sales@derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 37.

Page 38. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Indie heroes Ocean Colour Scene and Johnny Marr join Y Not festival’s huge 10th anniversary line-up Less Than Jake, We Are Scientists, Augustines, Reverend & The Makers and more confirmed to appear alongside headliners Snoop Dogg, Basement Jaxx and Primal Scream The hills, or more appropriately the Peaks, will be alive with the sound of indie, rock and pop when Y Not sets up camp in Derbyshire 31st July to 2nd August. Ocean Colour Scene and Johnny Marr are amongst the latest additions to the festival’s 10th anniversary line-up. Tickets starting at £89.50 are on sale now via Ynotfestivals.co.uk.

Also celebrating a significant year, Ocean Colour Scene are announced for Y Not festival just weeks after the completion of their 25th anniversary tour.

The Moseley-formed quartet come armed with belters like ‘The Day We Caught the Train’ many more from a 10-album back catalogue. ‘Godlike Genius’, as dubbed by NME, Johnny Marr is next to step up to the plate. The former Smiths’ guitarist and solo artist in his own right garners the upmost respect from music fans who flock to his iconic sound.

Elsewhere amongst additions are Florida’s ska punkers Less Than Jake who’ll be on hand to keep crowds jumping, also heading to Derbyshire from the States will be New York indie trio We Are Scientists. Stepping up to the mic will next be Jon ‘The Reverend’ McClure and friends, better known to the music world as Reverend & The Makers. Rock of widescreen proportions will come courtesy of

Augustines, post-hardcore quartet Don Broco and alternative metal outfit Young Guns. ‘Solo Dancing’ singer Indiana serves up sleek electropop whilst for those looking for something completely different, Y Not welcomes comedy folk outfit The Lancashire Hotpots.

Diversity continues across Y Not’s stages with Japanese psychedelic noise wielders Bo Ningen, alt R&B singer and Games of Thrones actor Raleigh Ritchie and rap/metal fusers Hacktivist.

Mancunian grunge band Nine Black Alps and screaming mathcore specialists Rolo Tomassi are set to keep things loud, flanked closely by The Bohicas, rockers LTNT and Solemn Sun. Bluestinged singer Kim Churchill and the soulful Jake Isaacs add a different hue to the airwaves, and last but by no means least things are turned back up to 11 for metallers Zoax.

Winner of ‘Best Small Festival’ at the 2012 UK Festival Awards, Y Not returns in 2015 to celebrate in style. Friends, fans and newcomers are invited to enjoy panoramic countryside views sound-tracked by fresh and loud sounds from bands both up-andcoming and superstar in stance. Tickets priced only £89.50 are available now from Ynotfestivals.co.uk.

Bakewell Showground Spectacular Sunday 3rd & Monday the 4th May 2015 So what have you got planned for the May Day bank holiday?

How about a brilliant day out at the BAKEWELL SHOWGROUND SPECTACULAR which is being held on Sunday 3rd & Monday 4th of May 2015.

A bank holiday spectacular fun day out for all the family set on one of the most picturesque showground’s in the country. Festivities include a very impressive FunFair with a great selection of rides for kids and adults. A prestigious selection of classic and exotic cars will be attending the event on both days from Ferrari’s Hot Rods and Classic’s. There will also be Race Cars, Rally Cars, American Muscle Cars and Motor Bikes.

We have a fantastic display of Classic Plant and Machinery representing both construction and military variants, some of the machinery dates back to the 1940’s and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. There will also be a gathering of Classic/Vintage Heavy Haulage Equipment, these Trucks look awesome.

We have a Lawn Mower Racing... yes that’s right!

These guys put on a great spectacle with lots of high powered mowers, great fun to watch.

A large Craft Tent will be on site with a fabulous selection inside including Art Work and a variety of Skilled Crafts. We also have many Trade Stands for shopping.

Entertainment includes an Incredible Aerobatics display, Live Music, Children’s Activities, Bouncy Castle, Punch & Judy, Circus Workshop, Clowns, Face Painting, Animals, Reptile Tent and much much more.

There will be an impressive selection of food from a traditional hog roast, fresh pizza’s, burgers, jacket potatoes, pasta, crepe/pancakes, doughnuts and sweets.

We also have a licensed bar for the adults.

Keep checking out our Official Bakewell Showground Spectacular website for regular updates.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 39.

Page 40. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

The Mug Tug has taken delivery of a brand new widebeam boat which is now permanently moored at Mercia Marina, Willington.

‘The Mug Tug Too’ will be open for business this Bank Holiday

Monday. They have created the same high standard and quality of service, products and experience that customers enjoy already, and will continue to do so, on their Barton Marina boat.

The Mug Tug offer great creative fun for all children aged from 0 to 100 years, with a variety of activities on board. From painting ceramic pots, they have over 300 different shapes on board; decoupage; making beautiful gifts using children’s hand and foot prints with paint, clay and 3d plaster; to Birthday Parties.

They are also launching ‘Make a Hug on the Tug’ – come on board

and choose a Teddy, stuff it and choose an outfit for it to wear home. They will be launching on Bank Holiday Monday between 10am and 5pm and then from Wednesday 8th to Sunday 12th April and although bookings are not always necessary, it is recommended you call on 01283 617567 to reserve a table to avoid disappointment.

Owner Lesley Mason says “There will be an Easter Craft and Food Fayre at Mercia Marina on the Bank Holiday Monday so we are likely to be extremely busy so we do recommend anyone wanting to join us to book a table as we

DERBY MARKET AUCTIONS we pay out on the day MARKET RESULTS - THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2015

Top 25% Ave Bulls 189P/kg Steers 201.05P/kg Heifers 217.05P/kg OTM 174.42P/kg 71 Baby Calves to £400 143 Reared Calves to £955 87 Store Cattle to £1395 645 Sheep to average 319.25p/kg

Derby Market Auctions 01332 342108

could get very busy” Party bookings are also now being taken.

Pot painting parties are very popular for all ages and their unique ‘Hug on The Tug’ Parties, introduced last year at Barton Marina are a party with a difference. Lesley Mason, owner of The Mug Tug says “Our ‘Hug Parties’ have proved very popular with both children and parents alike. We have over 16 adorable cuddly ‘Teddies’ to choose from and the partygoers choose their favourite, stuff it themselves (with a little help from our dedicated crew member) and then they decorate a T-Shirt with fabric pens for their Teddy to wear home. Every Teddy goes home with an adoption certificate so

they officially belong to their new friend.” Lesley continues “Our parties are suitable for children aged from 5years and upwards, with no upper age limit – we had a group of grown-ups join

us last month to celebrate a 39th Birthday! They wanted to do something different and had a great time with some lovely masterpieces to forever remind them of the memories they made.

Carlton Male Voice Choir Saturday 25th April 7.15pm

Carlton`s Annual Festival Concert, which is held at the Albert Hall Nottingham, provides the showcase for the choir to unveil its new repertoire which this year ranges from Bizet to Cole Porter. The concert presents the best in musical talent including the winner of the Carlton MVC Music Makers Trophy for 2015 and raises funds which enable us to support a number of charities, many of which are local and small- scale. This year we are thrilled to be sharing the stage with the internationally renowned, multi-award winning Cantamus Girls Choir on a night of music to remember.

Tickets are £12.50 and are available through our website www.carltonmvc.org Or by calling John (01623 633881) or Gordon (0115 8440158)

sunDay may 2015 2015 Sunday 17Th 17thMay 6 mile CirCular walk

Calke abbey, TiCknall, Derbyshire De73 7JF For further information please call 01332 786445 or email: kerry.brady1@nhs.net RegisteR online at: www.derbyhospitals.org.uk/events of © National Trust courtesy graph Photo

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 41.

Call us now to book your table

Pot Painting Birthday Parties and Hug on The Tug Parties

Choose from a variety of pot painting packages, paint on board then leave them with us to glaze and fire.

Personalised invitations and free Celebration plate

Choose one of our 16 Bears, stuff it so it’s nice and huggable and then decorate a T-shirt for him to wear home.

Birthday Child receives a free recordable voicebox.

Call us now to book your child’s special date

Party Packages for a minimum of 8 children

Call us now to book your child’s special date Fun for all children aged from 0 to 100 yrs!

Great family fun for all Generations to enjoy together on our widebeam

Mercia Marina, Findern Lane, Willington, DE65 6DW www.themugtug.co.uk Tel: 01283 617567

Page 42. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

OH YES, IT’S LADIES NIGHT AND… DJ SARA COX HAS AGRRED TO PLAY AT UTTOXETER RACECOURSE! Top radio DJ Sara Cox has announced that she will play a live at Uttoxeter Racecourse on Ladies Night - Thursday, 11 June 2015.

Already regarded as one of the most glamorous events on Staffordshire annual calendar, Ladies Night at Uttoxeter Racecourse gives groups of gals, and their pals, the perfect excuse to get glammed-up and in mood for a girls’ night out with a difference.

But the guest appearance by radio personality and TV star Sara Cox at this year’s Ladies Night promises to lift the annual night of racing to completely new level, as Staffordshire’s answer to Ascot prepares put the ladies under the spotlight and give them an excuse to slip into their favourite frocks, have an evening of fun watching seven races and - for the first time ever - boogie the night away as Sara spins her Eighties classics

and modern hits.

David MacDonald, Executive Director at the racecourse said, “We were determined to try something different from the usual tribute bands after racing on our Ladies Night, and what better way than to follow the racing with a DJ set from one of Britain’s most respected and loved DJ’s of the last 20 years?

Some of our customers will have followed Sara in her Radio 1 days and many others will be fans of her current Sounds of the 80’s Radio 2 show.

“We’re all delighted she has agreed to come to Uttoxeter, and now we’ll make sure this isn’t just any ‘usual’ DJ set. We’re planning a huge production, with custombuilt staging and laser effects, and it’s already looking like this could be a Uttoxeter Night like no other!”

Ladies Night at Uttoxeter already has a widespread reputation as

an evening of sheer indulgence for a crowd of well-dressed and well-heeled race-goers. PIMM’s and champagne flow in equal measures, and - for those who fancy their chances - there’s always the fun of having a flutter.

As ever, there will also be prizes on offer for the Best Dressed Lady, and the Best Hat. “I love a good day at the geegee’s myself,” says Cox. “I can’t wait to get back up North, have a bit of a flutter and get those lovely ladies strutting their stuff on the dance floor. It may be Ladies Night, but I’d say it’ll be a very popular occasion with the gents of Staffordshire and Derbyshire too!”

Ladies Night will take place on Thursday, 11 June 2015. Tickets are available from just £10 both online at www.uttoxeterracecourse.co.uk or over the phone from the racecourse office on 01889 562561.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 43.

Page 44. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

watering food was washed down with a variety of expertly made cocktails including zingy Berry Julep, White Lady and Prosecco.

In addition guests were treated to sneak peek tours of the hotel which officially opens its doors amidst great fanfare and excitement this week.

The wood panelling prevalent throughout the restaurant and bar gives an added warmth to the building, whilst the ambience is welcoming and homely all rolled into one. The expansive grounds have comfortable outdoor seating and with summer around the corner, this is perfect for an alfresco lunch or business meeting with a difference.

A newly launched boutique hotel and restaurant is gearing up to take the East Midlands by storm.

A mixture of local businesses, select members of the press and loyal customers were invited to the bustling launch party of The Farmhouse at Mackworth to celebrate its lavish opening night in Derby.

The stunning refurbished building consists of a restaurant and bar where delicious dishes are served, whilst also being home to a stylish wedding events venue that is The Folly. The Library is an intimate space adjacent to the restaurant which accommodates up to 40 attendees.

Here, guests can enjoy the magical view of books suspended from the ceiling, whilst sinking into luxurious leather booths.

On the launch evening, guests nibbled on platters of wood-fired chorizo pizza, roast duck and crispy fish goujons. This mouth-

The Farmhouse restaurant’s offerings are wonderfully diverse, catering for the early morning crowd to the late evening diner.

With three different menus to choose from, there is something for everyone, be it wholesome breakfasts, luscious luncheons or hearty dinners. Treat yourself to a Full English breakfast to set you up for the day and tuck into plump sausages, smoked streaky bacon, potato cake, black pudding, door-stop toast, chargrilled

mushrooms and eggs cooked to exactly how you like. For a special datenight with a difference, opt for slabs of black treacle and ale braised beef served with buttery mash and curly kale.

Adjacent to the restaurant sits The Folly, which is an exquisite space with the capacity to accommodate up to 130 guests. From champagne receptions to a whole host of other festive events, this is undoubtedly going to be a popular destination in the East Midlands and beyond.

The Folly is also the perfect place to get a good night’s rest, great as a stopover for business travellers or celebratory evening to mark a special anniversary. 10 beautifully

styled boutique bedrooms have been individually designed with their own fabrics and colour schemes, replete with bespoke furniture and hand-painted door-signs for that extra special touch.

Harking back to its 18th farmhouse century origins,

in a swish and stylish design.

Buttery neutrals provide the impeccable canvas for you to really put a stamp on your event. Brides-tobe can take advantage of a dedicated Events Manager, who will go through in comprehensive detail everything to ensure your big day is unique and special for you. Wedding packages are available to suit every style and budget.

The epitome of affordable luxury, understated elegance and great food, you can rest assured that this gorgeous space is the place to be. Make a date at The Farmhouse at Mackworth on 01332 824 324 and prepare to be blown away.

the current building has kept its original traditional architecture and has a lovely contemporary twist

The Farmhouse at Mackworth, 60 Ashbourne Road, Derby, DE22 4LY www.thefarmhouse atmackworth.com

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 45.

Page 46. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Healthy Living www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Stephen Toon Hearing Care

Independent hearing expert and audiologist Stephen Toon advises and helps people on a whole range of hearing-related problems in order to improve their quality of life.

Stephen, who worked with the BBC as audiology consultant for the “Don’t Die Young” TV series, offers home visits to clients throughout Derbyshire.

His wife Kate is severely deaf so he knows to emphasise with and give the very best advice and treatment to his clients.

Stephen said: “I have naturally always provided Kate with the very best hearing aids available, in order to give her the best hearing

possible and my philosophy is to offer my patients the very same choice, and bespoke care and attention that she receives.”

One of the main services he offers is ear wax removal for clients in their own homes. When too much wax builds up it can cause a blockage and lead to hearing loss. Stephen uses the latest micro suction techniques to remove this excess wax safely and painlessly.

Stephen is also an expert on the often bewildering variety of hearing aids on the market.

He can advise clients whether hearing aids would help improve their hearing and, if so, which

ones would suit them best.

He said: “Getting to know my patient is the most important thing I do when trying to restore someone’s hearing.

“I look at the lifestyle and needs of the client, as well as their chosen budget, to help determine which hearing aids will best meet their needs.

“Once the aids are fitted I offer many follow up visits during the initial months so that I can do the fine tuning necessary to ensure they work as well as possible.”

For further information check out Stephen’s website - http:// www.stephentoon.org/

Derby Advanced Beauty

Derby Advanced Beauty are thrilled to announce the arrival of their new Lipo Angel Fat Freezing machine.

Instead of trying to sweat off unwanted and stubborn areas of fat you can now freeze them off quickly and painlessly and effortlessly instead. In addition this will also tighten loose skin and reduce cellulite.

The fat freezing technique was created by Harvard scientists and permanently kills 26-40% of fat cells and then eliminates them naturally from the body.

It is the best way to remove stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise or for when you want quick results - the treatment only takes an hour and you can get straight back to your work or other activities.

Now instead of expensive options like liposuction you get all the benefits but with none of the risks or

recovery time associated with surgery.

Derby Advanced Beauty owner Emma Queralto was super pleased when she finally shifted the postbaby bulge after just one treatment.

She said: “I’m finally back into my favourite jeans that had been languishing at the back of the wardrobe for years – the frumpy mummy jeans are in the bin – I feel amazing and you can too.”

With many people planning or booking their summer holiday already or getting ready for a special event such as a wedding, everyone wants to look their best. With Derby Advanced Beauty’s special 50% off launch offer - there has never been a better time to zap your fat forever.

For more information check out http://derbyadvancedbeauty.com/

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 47.

American Tribal Style ® Belly Dance

INDUSTRIES WITH HIGHEST SMOKING RATES REVEALED BHF urges employers to help workers quit for good this No Smoking Day Accommodation and food service workers are more likely to smoke than workers in any other UK industry, according to new statistics released by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) ahead of No Smoking Day on 11th March. (1) Research has shown that smoking just one to four cigarettes a day can triple a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease. (2) The charity says that quitting is the single best thing people can do to improve their heart health.

Yet the UK workforce puffs through a staggering 74 million cigarettes on average a day – that’s 12 per smoker – significantly increasing their risk of a heart attack or stroke. (3) The BHF has released new statistics based on the latest official data, ranking the UK industries with the highest smoking rates. The research highlights the urgent need for greater intervention from employers to help workers quit for good.

The accommodation and food service industry came out worst where almost a third (31%) of workers smoke – almost three times the level in the education sector (11%) which ranked best.

The water and waste management industry ranked second worst with 29% of workers currently smoking, followed by the construction industry with 28% - significantly higher than the national UK smoking rate of 19% The other industries with the lowest smoking rates included the professional, scientific and technology sectors where around one in eight workers currently smoke.

Previous rEsearch shows the average smoker takes more sick leave and working breaks compared to

their non-smoking colleagues. This demonstrates the serious toll smoking has on people’s heart health which costs UK businesses an estimated £8.7 billion in lost productivity every year. (4) The BHF’s Health at Work programme offers free expert advice to over 10,000 members on how to create a healthier workforce.

The charity is calling on all UK employers to help their workers quit by joining its Health at Work programme and holding No Smoking Day events on 11th March.

Lisa Young, Project Manager for the BHF’s Health at Work programme, said: “No matter what industry you work in, smoking is extremely damaging to your heart health and the health of your business.

“But this research shows there is still a shocking divide between blue and white collar professions when it comes to how many of us are taking up this deadly addiction.

“Good health is good business. That’s why we want all UK employers to help us tackle these inequalities head on by helping their workers kick the habit for good.

“By taking part in No Smoking Day, employers could help their staff take the single biggest step towards a healthier heart whilst reaping the benefits of a stronger, more productive workforce.”

Every year nearly a million people attempt to quit by signing up to No Smoking Day. To sign up to the BHF’s Health at Work programme and download free No Smoking Day resources, visit www.bhf.org.uk/health-at-work

Moonhare ATS® Tribal Bellydance are looking forward to their first performance at the Polish Club, Derby on Saturday 18th April.

This will be the first of many performances over the summer where the Moonhares will be dancing at local arts festivals, charity days and supporting local community events by adding colour and fun (be prepared for audience participation!)

We are looking forward to a summer of dancing but to look the part the class had a “Dress Up & Dance” session this week. This was a chance to look at all aspects of costuming: »»

»»

»»

how to tuck and wrap a 25 yard gypsy skirt (especially when wearing TWO of them), hair styles and decoration (how many flowers is too many?), performance make up & henna

and finally BLING! Bracelets, necklaces, rings, ankle bracelets, ear rings, bangles, baubles, sparkles, antique Turkomen buttons and coins, everything was admired and put on!

Once appropriately dressed and decorated, the class then drilled all the fast and slow moves that they have learnt so far. The big discovery was that dancing in full costume was a lot harder than in normal class wear, phew, lots of fabric and a real workout for them bingo wings!

But it also helped every student to feel more like a “tribal” bellydancer.

There is NOTHING so impressive as seeing a group dancing in full skirts and flowers. They all looked beautiful, empowered and like they were having a whale of a time.

If you would like to come along and learn American Tribal Style Bellydance®, make friends, get fit and have a wonderful excuse to buy a new wardrobe, then please contact us via our website: Moonhareatstribal.vpweb.co.uk Or by email at: moonhareatstribal@hotmail.com Or by calling me, Sandra Freeman, Head Hare & Tutor, on 07539 930131 We look forward to meeting & dancing with you soon!

Page 48. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

OBESE WOMEN 40 PER CENT MORE LIKELY TO GET CANCER

Café Review

The Lavender Tea Rooms

Fancy an Easter treat or afternoon pick me up to recharge those sluggish batteries? Get yourself down to The Lavender Tea Rooms pronto. Based on a busy high street in Bakewell, the tea rooms set over two floors can be found nestled in an olde worlde courtyard.

Offering a selection of afternoon teas, breakfast and lunch, you know you’ve reached somewhere special as soon as you enter. The décor is fabulously flamboyant and cosy kitsch with a touch of retro. Hanging artwork is charmingly eclectic as a bag of Skittles, leaving very little bare wall space to make the most of the owner’s very obvious love for art.

My dining partner and I were seated promptly near the entrance at a quaintly

furnished table. The usual afternoon tea paraphernalia took pole position, ranging from vintage bone china crockery and polished silver condiment pots to antique cutlery. The scene was beautifully set and a wonderful precursor for what was to follow – a veritable feast for the eyes and stomach.

Just a word of advice – if ordering the Afternoon Tea Deluxe – ensure you go on an empty stomach. A five tier tray filled with delicious pastries and crustless sandwiches was placed with great care in the centre of our table. From a range of cheese with pickle, smoked salmon with cream cheese and tomato with chutney finger sandwiches, the Derbyshire ham and mustard pairing stood out for me. Why? The ham was meaty, thickly sliced, beautifully salty and positively moreish, making for one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten.

The smoked salmon was a close runner up, due to the earthy smokiness of the generously filled sandwiches. With a good pastry selection to boot which included an addictive coffee and walnut

by Ria Amber Tesia - Food Correspondent

cake (the frosting was pure heaven), serving the famous eponymously named dessert was expected. The Bakewell Tart was scrummy, the pastry crumbly and on the right side of short, and the sponge cake filling delectably light. The fist-sized scone (we’re talking Rocky proportions here) was an absolute whopper and delight to eat. Served with pots of creamy clotted cream and zingy jam, eating this giant of a scone kept me quiet for at least five minutes (no mean feat considering talking is one of my favourite pastimes right after writing).

Now, there is always a different vibe in afternoon tea places and The Lavender Tea Rooms are no exception. There was a hushed silence with conversation being spoken in muted tones, just out of sheer reverence for the very ritual of afternoon tea. There were couples enjoying dates, a bunch of girlfriends catching up over coffee and of course, yours truly drinking in the delicious atmosphere and steaming hot tea and coffee.

Just a little note for Lavender Tea Rooms and all the other eateries of Bakewell who close bang on 5pm. Would you possibly consider extending your opening times to cater for those clueless tourist types who don’t know any better than to roll into your café at 4:30pm?

I passed two groups loitering outside who were keen for a bite to eat but were disappointed at the 5pm closing time.

Overall it was a great afternoon tea, a lovely dining experience and one that features in my Top Ten Afternoon Teas from across the country.

Star Rating 1-10 (1: “I hate it, I’d rather eat my own shoe” to 10: “I’d pillage for a meal here”.)

Food: 10 Value for money: 8 Ambience: 10 Rate or Slate? Rate Afternoon Tea Deluxe: £19.95 per person.

Address: Hebden Court, Matlock St, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1EE. Tel: 01629 814466

EAST MIDLANDS women are being encouraged to be more active, following striking new figures* released by Cancer Research UK today (Tuesday) about weight-related cancers.

Obese women in the UK have around a 40 per cent greater risk of developing a weight-related cancer in their lifetime than women of a healthy weight, according to the charity.

In the East Midlands, around a quarter (26 per cent) of women are obese**. Approximately a quarter of all UK women are obese***.

Obesity increases a woman’s risk of developing at least seven types of cancer – including bowel, postmenopausal breast, gallbladder, womb, kidney, pancreatic and oesophageal cancers.

There are different ways that obesity could increase the risk of cancer, and one possibility is that it is linked to a fat cell’s production of hormones – especially oestrogen. This hormone is thought to fuel the development of cancer.

Nicki Embleton, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the region, said: “Losing weight isn’t easy, but women don’t have to join a gym and run miles every day or give up their favourite food forever.

“Just making small changes that can be maintained in the long term can have a real impact.”

One way for women to kick-start a healthier lifestyle is to sign up to take part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life events which are taking place across the East Midlands.

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an

inspiring women-only series of 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer sooner by funding lifesaving research.

Nicki continued: “Signing up to take part in Race for Life is a great way for women of all shapes and sizes to commit to get a little more active. Race for Life events are noncompetitive. Taking part is not about being fit or fast and participants can choose to walk, jog, or run around the course. The atmosphere is incredibly supportive and pledging to take part, alongside thousands of like minded women, is a great motivation to get fitter as well as raise money for lifesaving research.”

Money raised through Race for Life allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance research which is helping to save the lives of men, women and children across the region.

Cancer survival rates have doubled since the 1970s and Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of that progress. But more funds and more supporters are needed to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

Dr Julie Sharp, head of health information at Cancer Research UK, said: “We know that our cancer risk depends on a combination of our genes, our environment and other aspects of our lives, many of which we can control - helping people understand how they can reduce their risk of developing cancer in the first place remains crucial in tackling the disease.

“Lifestyle changes, like not smoking,

keeping a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and cutting back on alcohol – are the big opportunities for us all to personally reduce our cancer risk. Making these changes is not a guarantee against cancer, but it stacks the odds in our favour.”

To enter Race for Life today go to raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

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In the UK it is estimated that 18,000 women develop cancer as a result of being overweight or obese each year****.

The new statistics find that obese women in the UK have around a 40 per cent greater risk of developing a cancer linked to weight in their lifetime.

Obesity increases a woman’s risk of developing at least seven types of cancer- including bowel, post-menopausal breast, gallbladder, womb, kidney, pancreatic and oesophageal cancers.

Taking part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life is a great way to start being a bit more active. Events are taking place across the East Midlands this summer.

Free training plans for women of all ages and abilities are available on the Race for Life website.

To find the nearest Race for Life event visit raceforlife.org

lamb cannon, crispy cutlet, courgette fondant on pomme puree. Desserts are equally impressive such as the ‘Lemon Meringue’ – an inspired take on a traditional concept with almond pastry, lemon curd and meringue cannelloni.

Head Chef Matthew Clayton is using his 10 years experience in Michelin and rosette establishments to mentor the young team at Amalfi White - creating rising stars in both kitchen and front of house and pushing the venue into the limelight.

The goal is to achieve 3 rosettes and firmly put the Amalfi White brand amongst the best of dining in the region.

After a successful 16 months trading the independent owners of Amalfi White Prosecco Bar and Brasserie in Melbourne, Derbyshire have launched a new fine dining restaurant in their stunning first floor ballroom with the goal of taking dining out in the Midlands to a whole new level.

The Ballroom at Amalfi White is the new restaurant located in the glamorous vaulted ceiling Ballroom in the recently refurbished landmark Victorian building.

Building upon the success of the ground floor brasserie with its excellent cocktails, vibrant buzzing atmosphere, and stylishly presented high quality food the brasserie is currently the place to be seen in the region

for celebrities, sporting stars and locals alike. The fine dining restaurant will now give those wanting more of an elegant experience within a relaxed but opulent environment the chance to celebrate and impress.

The menu in The Ballroom at Amalfi White is seasonally positioned using a combination of world renowned and local ingredients to create a menu with a refreshing modern influence in which the customer experiences exciting combinations on the palate with an element of surprise.

Feature dishes include red label chicken and foie gras ballotine with watermelon textures, sour dough and chicken reduction. The mains are beautifully constructed with technical flair – sous vide

Amalfi White is located at 50 Derby Rd, Melbourne, Derbyshire DE73 8FE. The Brasserie and Prosecco Bar is open Tuesday – Sunday from 11am. The Ballroom Fine Dining Restaurant is open Friday and Saturday nights.

Call 01332694890 to book. www.amalfiwhite.com lizzy@amalfiwhite.com

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 49.

Sight loss support programme celebrates 12 years of helping blind and partially sighted people in England Event in Derby attended by people who benefited from ‘Finding Your Feet’ course On Thursday 12 March, an event was held to celebrate 12 years of the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) ‘Finding Your Feet’ programme, a support programme designed to help blind and partially sighted people deal with some of the practical and emotional challenges of coming to terms with sight loss.

Around 30 people who have attended the programme over the years came together at the Hallmark Hotel in Derby. As well as reflecting on the impact ‘Finding Your Feet’ had on their lives, they shared hints, tips and ideas on living with sight loss.

The event saw attendees take part in workshops on topics such as using technology in their daily lives and getting

involved by influencing policy through campaigning.

One of the event organisers, Annette Dinnall from RNIB, said: “‘Finding Your Feet’ has helped around a thousand people to meet others who are in a similar situation and share their knowledge and experiences. We’ve worked with 22 local society partners to offer more local support and we’re delighted that people with sight loss can continue to benefit from this great programme as part of Living with Sight Loss programmes.

“Anyone thinking of attending the ‘Finding Your Feet’ course can find out more by calling our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.”

Joyce, who attended Thursday’s event, said of her experiences of the programme: “I was very lucky as I actually went on a residential ‘Finding Your Feet’ course with my husband only two months after I was registered blind, and for those two months I sat at home and thought ‘Well that’s it.

I’m registered blind. What can I do for the rest of my life?’ When I went on the ‘Finding Your Feet’ course it was a revelation… It was the start of a whole new life for me.”

“This event brought together some of the participants and facilitators, and it’s been great to celebrate and showcase the Joyce added: “The course was benefits of this course for people wonderful, the peer support and with sight loss and their families. being able to talk to people in

exactly the same situation, who had the same problems, and getting the emotional support, knowing all the benefits, and different organisations who could offer help and services.

“There was someone there to help you with how to put on your make-up, how to distinguish your clothes... as well as advice on computers and mobile phones.

It was just amazing what was packed into two days.”

‘Finding Your Feet’ courses are now delivered by Action for Blind People as part of its Living with Sight Loss programmes.

To find your local Living with Sight Loss programme, you can phone the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www. actionforblindpeople.org.uk/ finding-your-feet-programme

01332 405358 enquiries@beautifuldentures.co.uk

Beautiful Dentures are experts in creating bespoke natural looking dentures that are individually handcrafted to provide you with the perfect fit, feel and function.

With new confidence in your smile, you can eat the foods You love and laugh whenever you feel like it. With Beautiful Dentures, you can enjoy a feeling of freedom to live life to the full, every day.

Beautiful bespoke design Providing an exceptional level of care and attention, we will work closely with your needs to create and fit the dentures that are right for you. By understanding your preferences and the end result you would like to achieve, we will help you achieve an appearance that makes you look and feel more confident.

An experienced team in creating beautiful smiles, trust Beautiful Dentures to take care of all your denture needs. Offering a range of exclusive denture services direct to the public, our Denture Clinics in Wolverhampton, Derby and Burton on Trent can: • Replace all of your missing teeth with Complete Denture • Replace one or several of your missing teeth with Partial Dentures • Replace your old dentures with Copy Dentures • Fix your broken dentures with Dentures Repairs • Reline your existing dentures with Denture Relining • Stabilise your dentures with Dental Implants Ready to look younger and feel great?

Simply contact us today to find out more about Beautiful Dentures.

Beautiful Dentures Beautiful Dentures provides bespoke dentures which are individually handcrafted to provide users with the perfect fit, feel and function.

There are clinics at the Park Farm Shopping Centre, Allestree, Derby, and at George Street Burton on Trent, where free consultations are offered and all your questions about dentures will be answered.

Beautiful Dentures prides itself in offering exceptional levels of care and attention where the friendly, trained technicians work closely with clients to ensure their exact needs are met.

The result is perfectly fitting dentures which look good and allow users to find a new confidence in their smile, eat the foods they love and feel so much better about themselves.

All types of dentures are supplied directly to the public and the aim is always to recreate the person’s natural smile using state of the art technology with proven dental techniques in welcoming and relaxing denture clinics.

Business partners Richard Hazzledine and Jamie Wright

have 50 years of experience between them and are two of only around 290 fully-qualified clinical dental technicians in the UK. The “clinical” in the title means that they can take impressions and perform all the procedures necessary to assess and fit dentures from start to finish.

All clients get a warm welcome and at Beautiful Dentures everything is done to ensure that treatment is a pain-free and calming experience for all.

Complete dentures can be fitted to replace all of your missing teeth or partial sets where only some teeth are missing.

Broken dentures can be repaired and old sets can be copied with modern, new ones.

In addition existing dentures can be relined or stabilised using dental implants.

No matter what your requirements, the highly experienced team will ensure that you get the best possible advice and best possible dentures to meet your exact requirements.

For further information check out the Beautiful Dentures website - http://www. beautifuldentures.co.uk

Education Page 50. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Webs Training

www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Artists impression of the new student accommodation building.

NEW STUDENT ACCOMMODATION FOR CITY CENTRE Work began, in March, on a new development of 350 student flats on a vacant site on Derby’s Cathedral Road.

Property developer London & UK Property will construct a seven-storey building, designed by GT Architects, on the site of the former Sixt Car Hire depot on Cathedral Road, close to Derby College’s Joseph Wright campus. Accommodation will be made up of en-suite room clusters in a U-shaped building. In addition to the student rooms, there will also be communal areas, a laundry room and a management office, together with storage areas for 176 cycles. Work on the multi-million-pound project is subject to a Section 106 agreement, a legal agreement between the city council and the developer. It is hoped the building will be ready for the academic year beginning in September 2016.

This is the first development since Derby’s City Living Initiative was launched, seeking to increase the number of people living in central Derby.

A £6.5 million Derby City Living Fund has been created by Derby City Council to support the conversion of redundant office space into residential stock, whilst Marketing Derby’s City Living brochure provides key information on the city alongside a shopping list of potential residential development sites in the city.

Approval for the scheme comes following collaboration between Marketing Derby, who

The Cathedral Road site has been used for carparking and fly-tipping formally registered their support for the scheme, and the Local Planning Authority who worked closely with London & UK Property to progress the application.

Chesterfield property developer Bolsterstone had plans approved in 2008 for a 65,600sq foot building to provide office space on the Cathedral Road site. The project never began and the site became used as an unauthorised car park and was also used for fly-tipping.

“It is fantastic to see a vacant site being brought into use, and even better that it brings 350 young residents into the city centre,” said John Forkin, Managing Director at Marketing Derby. “Derby welcomes residential development and we expect this to be the first of several schemes to be announced in the coming months, providing quality city-centre accommodation for students and professionals alike.”

GOVERNMENT CASH FOR SCHOOLS IS WELCOME – BUT MORE IS NEEDED Some Derbyshire children are set to benefit from improved school buildings after money was allocated by the Department for Education.

Derbyshire County Council is being given more than £15m to finance projects like reroofing, replacing old kitchens, rewiring and replacing windows, as well as providing new school places where necessary.

And while welcome, the money for major repairs is 20% less than last year and will only scratch the surface of what needs doing, says Councillor Kevin Gillott, the authority’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People.

“The reduction is greater than would be justified by the number of Derbyshire schools that are now academies,” he added.

“We need closer to £160m to tackle the backlog

of repairs in Derbyshire’s schools. We have been given just over £9m to repair 385 schools.”

Councillor Gillott visited Riddings Junior School near Alfreton which is to have two new classrooms costing £650,000 and a new roof and windows costing £300,000.

Councillor Gillott added: “Making sure Derbyshire children get the best possible education is one of our main priorities and having adequate buildings in which they can learn is a big part of that. The backlog of school repairs only gets worse every year and yet we are facing a 20% cut in school condition allocations compared with last year.”

Derbyshire schools have been allocated a total of £15,160,552 for 2015-16.

The expenditure will be considered by cabinet on 24 March.

Webs furniture training Webs Training Limited has been one of the regions leading training providers delivering quality furniture manufacturing training for nearly 50 years. As a quality provider of apprenticeship and work based training, we work with local, regional and national employers to secure apprenticeship opportunities for young people aged 16-23. As employees, apprentices earn a wage from day one and work along-side experienced staff to gain job specific skills.

With our new purpose built, state of the art workshops and classrooms and dedicated staff, we aim to support our learners to fulfil their full potential.

All apprentices are funded by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and there is no charge to the apprentice for the course.

For employers with up to 1000 employees, and looking to recruit a 16-23 year old, you may qualify for a Government grant of £1500* (*conditions apply).

For young people aged 16-18 who are not quite ready to go into an apprenticeship, we offer the Ambitions Study Programme which will help to prepare young people for the world of work.

The programme will provide learners with an opportunity to develop work related skills in the furniture industry, whilst working towards nationally recognised qualifications. The course runs over 3 days a week for 30 weeks and is supported by the Education Funding Agency (EFA)

WEBS Training Ltd The Poplars Wollaton Rd Beeston Nottingham. NG9 2PD Email: info@webstraining.com Telephone: 0115 9677771 Fax: 0115 9677772

Ross Hughes Apprentice Sewing Machinist When Ross Hughes left school he started working on building sites as a labourer, plasterer and painter.

Now his work is a little different and he couldn’t be any happier…he is an apprentice sewing machinist.

Yes he did get teased by his mates when he told them what he did for a living, but his job is not without its compensations. For example where he works there are two guys and around 30 women working as sewing machinists.

Ross, 22, from Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire, has almost finished his two year Level 2 NVQ course and works for Duresta, a company which has been making high quality upholstery from its factory in Long Eaton since 1938.

The area has a tradition of producing great furniture makers and Ross is one of the latest in a long line of craftsmen and women who come from the area.

Ross said: “I left school in 2009 and found various jobs on building sites for three or four years but that was not what I really wanted to do.

“Being from Long Eaton I really wanted to get involved in the upholstery business - I didn’t have a particular skill in mind but wanted to do something in this industry.

“I obviously knew about Webs Training so one day I asked them what sort of apprenticeships were available and they said there was a job going as an apprentice sewing machinist so I thought “why not” and decided to give it a go.

“It is a bit of a change from working as a labourer on a building site to working as a sewing machinist and there were a few funny comments from my mates when I told them what I was doing.”

Now two years later and he has no regrets at all and is now fast and accurate at doing a wide range of sewing work on sofas and cushions.

He said his teacher was like a second mother to him and there was rivalry at work between the men and women at who was best at the job.

(Naturally Ross says the two guys at the factory are better than the women.)

At Webs Training he has just finished his final exam where he had to make a full set of cushions to go with a sofa and will be graded on a number of factors including accuracy, quality of the finished product and his attention to detail.

Ross added: “I have really enjoyed all the training that Webs has provided for me and want to thank all the staff for being so professional and caring.

“I have learned sewing, cutting, other practical skills and done book work and classroom work on computers - the training here is really varied and comprehensive and I would have no hesitation in recommending it to other young people.

“I love my work and get real job satisfaction from it whereas on the building sites I quickly got fed up with it all.

“There is a real sense of satisfaction at getting a job well done and being part of a team which makes such great furniture.”

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 51.

University appoints new Energy and Environment Research Chair

Professor Paul Stewart has been appointed as Research Chair in Energy and Environment in the Institute for Innovation in Sustainable Engineering (IISE) at the University of Derby.

He will join IISE to lead and develop an industry focused research and enterprise group in fundamental and applied Research and Development (R&D) activity across the energy, automotive and aerospace sectors, growing IISE research, industrial innovation energy futures and legislation. He will also establish the structure for University-wide multidisciplinary collaboration in energy research and innovation.

Before his academic career, Professor Stewart spent 14 years working in and running SMEs in the Automotive Industry, specialising in drivetrain development and tuning, and has also held academic posts in the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centres for Control Systems, and Advanced Electrical Machines.

He gained his BEng in Electronic, Control and Systems Engineering in 1996 and completed an

industrially sponsored PhD focused on Electrical Machines and Drives Control for Electric Vehicles at the University of Sheffield in 2000.

This led to a 16-year relationship with the Electrical Machines and Drives Research Group at the University of Sheffield, eventually becoming Senior Lecturer in 2006. He was subsequently conferred a Chair as Head of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering at the University of Salford, where he co-founded the CASE Centre in Control and Systems Engineering.

Joining the University of Lincoln as Professor of Control Engineering and Head of School in 2009, Professor Stewart founded the first new School of Engineering in the UK for more than 20 years, in partnership with Siemens, gaining Siemens Principal Partner Status in 2012.

The venture additionally won awards from Times Higher Education, Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), and the Lord Stafford Award for Industrial Collaboration.

He was subsequently promoted to Pro Vice Chancellor Research for the University, and additionally founded research groups in Energy, and Systems.

Professor Stewart has conducted numerous professional roles, including Chairman of the UK and Republic of Ireland Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Industrial Electronics Chapter, member of the Aircraft Electrical Power systems National Advisory Committee, member of the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, member of the EPSRC Peer Review College, and is an active

funding panel member of the RCUK Energy Programme.

Professor Richard Hall, Director of Research, Innovation and Academic Enterprise at IISE, said: “Paul will join us at a most interesting and exciting time in the growth of our research and business support activities here at the University. His areas of expertise fits perfectly with the challenges faced by so many of our local companies: that of sustainability which will affect us all. The companies that can provide solutions will be those that prosper in an ever more competitive market place. It’s here where Paul’s team will make their impact”.

Speaking about his appointment, Professor Stewart said: “The Research Chair in Energy and Environment in IISE represents an unprecedented opportunity to join a new, vibrant, and rapidly expanding organisation which is already engaging and collaborating with industry from multinationals, through the supply chain, to SMEs. “I’m looking forward to developing Energy and Environment R&D within the Institute, and contributing to the growth and competitiveness of industry within the region, nationally and internationally.”

His personal research interests centre on Complex System Simulation, Design and Optimisation; Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Control Systems; Power and Energy Architectures and Electrical Machines, Drives and Systems; Energy Conversion and Storage; Remote Monitoring and Sensing; Prognostics and Diagnostics; Low Carbon and Low Emissions Operations.

He is Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), and is a Chartered Engineer.

University of Derby students gear up for world’s largest student motorsport competition Engineering students from the University of Derby are on track for the world’s biggest student motorsport competition at Silverstone from July 8-12, 2015.

Team Derby Motorsport is made up of 18 undergraduate and postgraduate students, the majority of which study Motorsport Engineering at University of Derby. The team will race against 135 other teams from 28 different countries at Formula Student 2015.

The competition – run by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) - is the world’s largest student motorsport event and challenges student engineers to design, build and race a single seat racing car in one year.

Ross Brawn, former Team Principal of the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team, returns as competition patron and will meet students at the opening ceremony. Ambassadors this year include Paddy Lowe, Executive Director of Mercedes AMG Petronas F1, Willem Toet, Head of Aerodynamics at Sauber F1, former Formula 1 driver David Brabham, and BBC science presenter Dallas Campbell.

Team Derby Motorsport will line up at Silverstone with 49 teams from other UK universities, and

the main Class 1 competition will see 30 electric vehicles and 80 cars with combustion engines.

Jon Hilton, Chairman of Formula Student, said: “Formula Student is the world’s most respected student motorsport event and the sheer numbers of applications we have received for this year’s event prove it’s going from strength to strength.

“I’m delighted to see teams like Team Derby Motorsport competing in Formula Student 2015 – it shows that the competition remains one of the most important learning experiences for those aiming to combine their studies with exposure to a real world engineering project.”

Andrew Menzies, Team Leader of Team Derby Motorsport added: “We are very proud to compete in Formula Student Class 1 for the first time this year. As a new team to the competition we have a steep learning curve to get ourselves ready for the event. We are incredibly fortunate to have support from the University and around 40 companies as technical partners and sponsors.”

For more information about Motorsport Engineering courses at the University of Derby, please visit: www.derby.ac.uk/engineering-technology

Home School Tutoring Home School Tutoring (National Forest/ Derbyshire) is part of the national network of Home School Tutoring. We specialise in tutoring children and adults at home, whether they be home educated, in school, at University or working. Each area has a range of skilled tutors (usually teachers) with a current CRB. In our area we also specialise in the tutoring of English and maths learning difficulties, going as far as the tutoring of dyslexia (literacy problems) and dyscalculia (maths problems) which lie at the extreme of the learning difficulty spectrum, affecting up to 10% of the population and particularly, with dyscalculia, being poorly understood.

A child may have general learning difficulties in some or all subjects, which we would traditionally call ‘slow’ and can be usually tackled with extra tuition to bolster mainstream learning.

Dyslexia and dyscalculia differ from this in that the child is often very good in other areas; they could be very poor at English but brilliant at

maths or vice versa. They could be talented in art, history or the sciences but show poor skills in English or maths often coupled with frustration at their lack of progress.

Both conditions require expert diagnosis, the earlier the better (from age seven) and expert assistance. Schools will often be reluctant to pay for an analysis due to the expense (over £500) and the subsequent cost of specialist teaching.

We can offer advice and informal diagnosis in both dyslexia and dyscalculia as well as skilled individual tuition at home to bring children (and adults) up to speed, with impressive results.

We are always keen to register new tutors to join us to increase our range of provision in all subjects.

Please contact; Sue Evans 01283 480565/07875275411: email: hstnf2010@talktalk. Or visit our website; homeschooltutoring.co.uk

Page 52. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

STUDENTS GET A TASTE FOR SPORTS JOURNALISM to the new cars, driver line-ups and cars on show at Donington. They were also able to test their interview skills with Leicestershire-based team Infiniti Support Our Paras drivers Richard Hawken and Derek Palmer Jr, together with Nic Hamilton (brother of F1 Champion Lewis) and Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden who unveiled their new Honda Civic Type R.

The Trent College pupils met Yuasa Honda drivers Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal.

It’s a hard life, but someone has to do it…

At least, that’s my story! Students from Trent College, in Long Eaton, got the chance to see for themselves as Donington Park invited a group join the British Touring Car Championship media day in March.

The pupils were able to get up close and personal

The visit was arranged by Tom Wood, a young kart racer who is sponsored by Donington Park, and a pupil at Trent College.

“We are all enormously appreciative of Donington Park for allowing us the opportunity to give our pupils an insight into the world of motorsport and the media,” commented Ben Ward, Head of Graphics at Trent College. “We’ve all been made aware of motorsport by Tom Wood’s racing, which he’s always telling us about, and now we all understand what the hype is about!”

“It’s been an inspirational day,” said pupil Tom Benton. “It was great to meet the drivers and interview them, especially Nic Hamilton. He was

able to tell us a lot about his racing.”

“It’s been a once in a lifetime opportunity,” added fellow pupil Christian Green. “It was amazing meeting the people working on the Infiniti car. The troops have suffered while on service but have all found ways to get back on track with motorsport” Classmate Alex Archer-Dyer said: “We’ve had brilliant fun. The drivers told us how important education was, they said if you put your mind to something you can achieve anything.”

Nic Hamilton took time out to talk to the budding journalists.

Despite their ‘sports-star’ status, the drivers are only human, and quite approachable, as Tom Unsworth found out. “The best part of the day was seeing how down to earth the drivers are. They’re really good at answering questions and it was great to meet them,” he said.

Cameron Knight agreed. “It was eye opening because there is a lot of hype around the racing, but they are normal people and understand the real world. It’s opened my eyes to working in motorsport.”

Time to start looking over my shoulder, me-thinks!

Kart racer Tom Wood compared notes with Nic Hamilton.

PRIME MINISTER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK WAVE OF FREE SCHOOLS EAST MIDLANDS COLLEGE ANNOUNCED

University’s unique deal to help modernise Malaysian Police Every police officer in Malaysia will have their training accredited by the University of Derby, in what is thought to be the first ever such partnership between a foreign country and a UK university.

As part of its drive to achieve developed nation status by 2020, Malaysia, in South-East Asia, is looking for every one of the 113,000-plus officers in its Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) to have an accredited academic qualification, which will be in addition to their official police rank. It is hoped this will increase the RMP’s professionalism.

Derby is thought to be the first UK university to become the academic awarding body for an entire country’s police force.

The new agreement has been struck by the University’s Department of Law and Criminology, and the Malaysian government.

Under the new agreement the University will accredit the training of all police officers, having created three qualifications for different ranks: a Diploma in Policing for new recruits and existing Constables, a BSc (Hons) Police Science degree course for Sergeants, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Police Leadership for Inspector level and above.

Officers will receive training in areas such as the law, investigation and interview techniques, suspects’ rights, management, leadership and administration; with the instruction delivered by police trainers in Malaysia but overseen and quality controlled by expert Derby tutors.

The first graduation ceremonies recently took

place at the RMP College in Kuala Lumpur where 1,067 constables received their Diploma in Policing from representatives of the University, alongside Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar, over three days of celebrations.

A further 1,574 officers received their award in absence, as they were posted on duty.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Coyne, other senior academics and Derbyshire’s High Sheriff, David Coleman, attended the ceremonies.

Professor Malcolm Todd, Dean of the College of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences, said: “I am delighted that the University of Derby has entered into this highly prestigious partnership with the Royal Malaysian Police to deliver world class police training.”

Kevin Bampton, Head of the Department of Law and Criminology at Derby, said: “We believe it’s the first time a UK university has done something of this nature.

“It is an enormous task, training tens of thousands of officers per year, but the Malaysians are committed to embedding the highest professional standards and we are here to support them.

Malaysian criminal law draws inspiration from UK law, but it has been highly effective in making it relevant to a complex and sophisticated multiethnic society. We have much to learn from them.

“We are excited to be working with the Malaysians, providing the academic support and independent quality assurance which will further professionalise the country’s police force.”

Prime Minister David Cameron today announced 49 new free schools for communities across the country, strengthening the Government’s mission to give all parents the choice and security of a good local school.

The move brings the total number of free school places created since 2010 to almost a quarter of a million, making this policy the most successful new schools programme in national history with schools being created more quickly than ever before.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan hailed the policy for giving thousands of children the choice of attending an excellent local school “and the best possible education that prepares them for life in modern Britain”. In total more than 400 free schools have been approved since 2010, creating more than 230,000 school places across the country.

Announced today for the East Midlands, the Northampton International Academy will be a new all-through school for 3-19 year olds. Providing up to 2,220 new places, students will benefit from an extended school day with a curriculum focusing on the study of modern languages in both primary and secondary places.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Delivering the best schools and skills for young people is a crucial part of our long term economic plan to secure a better future for Britain. Free schools set up by teachers, parents and community groups are not only outperforming other schools, but they are raising the performance of those around them, meaning more opportunities for children to learn the skills they need to get on in life.

“These new schools are an important part of our plan to improve education by raising standards and restoring discipline so our children can compete with the world’s best and enjoy a better future.”

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said: “Free schools give pupils the chance to attend an excellent local school. They are providing more choice than ever before to parents and ensuring that children have access to a high quality school place and the best possible education that prepares them for life in modern Britain.

“With the total number of approved free schools now rising to more than 400, the demand from parents, charities and education experts to set up the schools has proven the programme to be one of the most important modern drivers of social mobility.

“Today’s announcement sends a clear sign that children for generations to come will be able to benefit from a place in a free school. With already more than two-thirds being rated good or outstanding, today’s news will reassure parents that standards will continue to rise.”

The schools announced today will meet the growing demand of parents for more good local schools with high standards and strong discipline. But also announced today are a number of schools using the innovative powers of the free schools programme

to transform the lives of many of society’s most disadvantaged and disaffected children. 17 per cent of all free schools are dedicated to special needs or alternative provision.

The Campus free school is the result of more than three years of collaboration between education and youth justice experts and will help up to 30 Haringey teenagers caught up in the cycle of crime to gain valuable qualifications, while giving them the support needed to avoid reoffending.

Also announced today is a school that will harness the discipline of boxing to transform the lives of disaffected young people who have fallen out of the mainstream education system.

The Boxing Academy will open as a free school in order to extend its offering to up to 56 pupils a year – two more classes than before. While pupils will not have to box, the sport’s ethos will be harnessed to help them channel their aggression and learn discipline and teamwork. Pupils will be mentored in small groups by boxers, while gaining valuable GCSEs including English and maths.

Free schools are brand new schools set up by parents, teachers and charities in response to demand from the local community. Today’s announcement – the final wave of free schools to be approved before the General Election – brings the total number of open and approved free schools to more than 400, creating around 230,000 new places often in the most deprived parts of the country.

Through free schools and academies the Government is taking power away from politicians and bureaucrats and handing it to heads and teachers. 72 per cent of free school heads say they are having a positive impact on schools in their local area – driving up standards and ensuring more parents have a great school in their neighbourhood.

More than 40,000 pupils are already attending free schools just three-and-a-half years after the first one opened its gates. More than two-thirds are rated good or outstanding and 72 per cent are located in areas with a shortage of places. 90 per cent of today’s free schools will be located in areas with a shortage of places.

Three studio schools have also been announced today. Studio schools, the first of which opened in 2010, provide specialisms linked to local skills shortages, and an emphasis on the skills needed for employment. They combine academic study with cross-curricular learning tackling real-life problems and projects.

With demand for childcare at an all-time high, Ministers have also announced the Government will finance free schools to offer nursery provision in the next wave of applications.

For the first time, successful applicants will be able to use capital funding to create nursery places for two, three- and four-year-olds, where the Government’s offer of 15 hours per week of free childcare can be provided.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 53.

Special Educational Needs www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is in Matlock enjoying picturesque views of the Matlock area.

We are a Voluntary Aided School with a strong inclusion ethos and pride ourselves on our support for children. Our curriculum provides children with different experiences to support their learning.

Our focus of ‘living like Jesus’ has recently being encapsulated in our vision for the school, using Gospel values to enable children to fulfil their full potential.

In accordance with our Mission Statement we believe in St Joseph’s that ‘our community of children, teachers, staff, parents and governors belong to God’s loving family and respect each other as brothers and sisters.’

We believe every child is a unique gift from God with his/her individual needs and gifts. Following Our Lord’s teaching, ‘Suffer little children to come to me’, we welcome children who have special educational

needs, and every endeavour will be made to provide appropriately for their particular needs.

The challenge is for us to ensure that, in partnership between parents and school, the inclusion of all children in every aspect of school life is achieved through identification of their needs and the development of strategies to meet those needs.

In this way, every child will develop to his/her full potential academically, spiritually, culturally and socially.

At our school, we ensure that all pupils are equally valued by having equal access to a broad and balanced curriculum which is differentiated to meet individual needs and abilities. Differentiation might include adult support, carefully matched resources, or the outcome of the task.

We ensure that consideration for SEN crosses all curriculum areas and all aspects of teaching and learning.

We have effective management systems and procedures in place for SEN, taking into account the current Code of Practice (2014).

We have successful communication between teachers, children with SEN, parents of SEN children, Teaching Assistants who run groups and outside agencies.

We acknowledge and draw on parents’ knowledge and expertise in relation to their own child.

We are committed to developing the knowledge and skills of all the staff to manage the challenges of the range of needs in the school, and to ensure that all support is of high quality.

We have an effective review cycle that allows us to monitor, review and plan for the next steps of development based on the ASSESS PLAN DO REVIEW cycle The initial support will be through excellent classroom practice from class teachers (Quality First Teaching).

For your child this would mean: • That the teacher has the highest possible expectations for your child and all pupils in their class.

• That all teaching is built on what your child already knows, can do and can understand.

• Different ways of teaching are in place so that your child is fully involved in learning in class. This may involve things like using more practical learning including visual aids to support class work.

• Specific strategies (which may be suggested by the SENCO) are in place to support your child to learn.

• Your child’s teacher will have carefully checked on your child’s progress and will have decided that your child has a gap or gaps in their understanding/ learning and needs some extra support to help them make the best possible progress.

The SENCO can refer your child, with your permission, to the following services: • Educational Psychology • SALT (Speech and Language Therapy) • Autism Outreach • Behaviour Support • Specialist Teachers for the hearing and visually impaired • Multi Agency Team • Matlock Children’s Centre • School Health • Occupational Therapy • Physiotherapy • Children and Adolescents Mental Health Service

At our school, we ensure that all pupils are equally valued by having equal access to a broad and balanced curriculum which is differentiated to meet individual The school provides training and support to enable all staff to improve the teaching needs and abilities. and learning of children, including those with SEND. The school provides training and support to enable all staff to improve the teaching and learning of children, including those with SEND. This includes whole school training on identifying needs and different intervention strategies. The training is run by the SENCO, SSSEN service and other external agencies as appropriate. Individual teachers and support staff attend training run by outside agencies that are relevant to the needs of specific children in their class ie: Autism Outreach.

Staff who are new to the school follow an induction programme which includes training and information on SEND. Class teachers plan lessons according to the specific needs of all groups of children in their class and will ensure that your child’s needs are met.

The SENCO uses Provision Mapping to identify children who are not making required progress and highlight possible interventions and monitor the impact.

Support staff, under the direction of the class teacher, can adapt planning to support the needs of your child where necessary.

Specific resources and strategies will be used to support your child individually and in groupsNumicon, Number squares, sloping desks, computer programmes, triangular pencils, coloured overlays, visual timetables.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School is accessible to children with SEND in the following ways: The school is fully compliant with Disability Discrimination Act requirements.

The school has easy access via a ramp and wide doors.

There is a disabled toilet area.

We ensure wherever possible that equipment used is accessible to all children regardless of their needs.

Extra curricular activities are accessible for children with SEND.

Page 54. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

S

t Andrew’s is a great place to learn and provides a warm and caring atmosphere where staff, partner professionals, families and friends of the school support each other to ensure the students receive the highest level of care. The over-riding culture is one of respect and collaboration.

It is a high performing school, currently consisting of provision for 11 – 19 year olds with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities across day and boarding provision.

St Andrew’s also leads an adult provision, Transition 2 for 18 – 25 year olds, in collaboration with Derby College and Derby City Council.

In 2007 St Andrew’s became one of the first SEN Specialist Schools in the country as accredited by Specialist Schools and Academies Trust. Since then the school has achieved a number of Quality Marks including Inclusion quality Mark and International Schools Award.

The Executive Headteacher became National Leader of Education whilst the Chair of Governors became a National Leader of Governance. St Andrew’s is also a Teaching School within the Derby Teaching Schools Alliance, supporting the training of future excellent teachers and leaders of education.

St Andrew’s values Politeness and Respect and we

base all our interactions around these intentions.

We believe that One Size Fits One – everyone within our school community is unique and therefore has different needs and we strive to ensure we develop in these young people the skills they need for life.

As a school we seek to challenge all our students, their families, the various services and staff to gain better outcomes for all our young people.

We have high expectations of everyone: students are set challenging targets each day and staff are constantly seeking to develop their own skills and undertake further training and qualifications.

St Andrew’s cares about students and their families.

We believe the students should feel safe and supported at all times and that the people working with them should be passionate about what they do. Student and Family support work, advocacy for students and parental engagement are key to successful outcomes for our young people.

To enrich the lives of our young people and enable them to thrive we provide an environment that is stimulating and exciting. We aim for each young person to achieve their potential though a curriculum that is practical and meaningful.

Throughout the school we aim to develop life skills and independence and this becomes the paramount focus in the post-16 provision.

In 2007 St Andrew’s became one of the first SEN Specialist Schools in the country as accredited by Specialist Schools and Academies Trust.

Understanding science – sensory programme

Post-16 Students working with “Baby People” on a music & recording project

As a school we seek to challenge all our students, their families, the various services and staff to gain better outcomes for all our young people.

Students have personal targets leading towards the acquisitions of self-help skills for the home and community, keeping safe in all environments, travel training, financial awareness, social skills and contributing to the community and supported or independent living.

The Residential provision supports the education on offer in the Day School.

The aim of that department is to support the students’ development of social and life skills. We provide residence for a limited number of students each week who enjoy the many and varied activities on offer and the opportunity to spend time with their school friends in a more informal way.

St Andrew’s offers students a wide range of creative learning experiences. The students have a choir which rehearses weekly and performs in venues across the city, contributing to the local community.

Specialist music teachers work with individuals and small groups of students teaching guitar, drumming & violin and all students have the opportunity in lessons or clubs to play the steel drums and perform to raise money for charity in local supermarkets.

Students participate in sessions and work with musicians (Baby People, Folk 3D ) and dancers( Deda) & theatre companies (Handmade Theatre).

The staff includes specialist music and art teachers which enables all students to explore their creative potential.

Parents of young people at St Andrew’s say: “My son is extremely happy at school. He is making

very good progress. St Andrew’s School has been extremely helpful and supportive over the last few years.

St Andrews is an excellent school, my daughter is always happy to be going. The staff are easy to talk to and are happy to help with anything St Andrew’s do great concerts and any of the evening events the staff and children have put on have been very successful and brilliant,.

My daughter loved the France trip.

An excellent school, my son is very happy The Individual Education you give my daughter is far beyond your needs. I’m amazed to the lengths you go to, to ensure she has sufficient stimulation to achieve a better education. She is without a doubt one of your more challenging students but you don’t see this as an issue you see it as your duty to ensure she achieves the best she can be, therefore making home life a little less stressful.

I always felt so alone with my child, it’s such a relief to know how much care and concern St Andrew’s gives. An outstanding school!”

We have an acceptance that organisations like ours need to be flexible and responsive to need.

Decisions to change priorities for improvement at any time are based in the best interests of improving outcomes for students and learners. To ensure we play our role effectively we work collaboratively with other schools and organisations, sharing knowledge and expertise and learning from them too.

“My son is extremely happy at school. He is making very good progress. St Andrew’s School has been extremely helpful and supportive over the last few years.”

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 55.

Mackworth House School is a mixed gender specialist day school in Derby that provides education for children and young people with autism.

It focuses on providing high quality personalised education and support and was praised as “…a very effective specialist school for pupils with autism” in its 2014 Ofsted inspection.

The curriculum at Mackworth House School is truly individualised and is built around the need of each child, children are not expected to fit in to an already established curriculum. Here at the school, the students aged between 6 and 19 learn how to develop communication, manage emotions, make choices and gain skills required in preparation for adult life.

Much emphasis is placed on driving children’s education according to the child’s personal needs and the child’s own interests are used as a vehicle for their educational development.

All of the highly dedicated, experienced and trained staff are totally committed to ensuring that the pupils have the very best learning environment possible and work on a one-to-one basis with all students to design, implement and review individual learning programmes.

All staff undergo a substantial training programme to make sure they have the skills and techniques to provide an exciting, fun and motivating learning environment at Mackworth House School.

The school takes great pride in the level of expertise and knowledge they have about the autism spectrum and identifying individual needs of the children and young people that have a diagnosis within it.

With no 9-5 classroom agenda, Mackworth House School is able to bring truly structured learning into every aspect of their students’ lives and provide a truly holistic programme for their development into adulthood.

In particular the school aims to teach children to: • • • • •

Develop and use communication, language and literacy Interact and communicate with a range of people Build and sustain relationships Express need and make preferences and choices

• • • •

Learn from and explore a range of experiences Increase understanding and knowledge about the environment and world we live in Participate in academic, physical and social activities Manage behaviour and emotions

Students learn skills associated with home management, daily routines and independent living.

Regular use of the community is also a key feature, where skills such as money management, use of public transport, using local facilities and shopping are taught.

The physical education programme includes activities ranging from outdoor pursuits in the nearby Derbyshire Dales, (including Duke of Edinburgh) to indoor games, swimming, exploring the local environment and rebound therapy.

In fact a lot of thought has been given to ensuring that the school contains a number of stimulating and interesting spaces and these include a sensory exploration suite, creative arts workshop, music workshop, training kitchen, gym and library.

A typical day for a child at Mackworth House School will run according to a diary system which will use meaningful words, symbols or pictures.

This will not be a rigid system of lessons and mealtimes but a living diary built around the individual goals and preferences for each child to create a setting of enjoyment and learning that makes sense to the children, whilst including activities to help develop independence and coping strategies to access different environments.

Activities organised throughout the day will meet the requirements of the national curriculum but remain engaging and motivating for the children.

Staff constantly monitor how well the pupils engage in these activities, adjusting as necessary and setting new goals as required to get the very best out of every pupil.

For more information visit the school’s website http://mackworthhouse.com/ or contact head teacher Kirsten Gibson on 01332 606202 or via email at kirsten.gibson@mackworthhouse.com

It focuses on providing high quality personalised education and support and was praised as “…a very effective specialist school for pupils with autism” in its 2014 Ofsted inspection.

Page 56. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Business www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

EUROCELL TO FACILITATE GROWTH STRATEGY FOLLOWING £45 MILLION IN NEW FUNDING 12th March 2015 – Derbyshire-based Eurocell, a market leading, vertically integrated UK manufacturer and distributor of innovative window, door and roofline PVC products, has agreed a £45 million revolving credit facility to support the firm’s growth strategy following on from its recent successful Initial Public Offering (IPO). The funding is being provided jointly between Santander Corporate & Commercial and Barclays Corporate Banking. Established in 1974, Eurocell has become a core supplier of window, door and roofline PVC products to wholesale and trade customers across the UK. The group, which has developed its own 131-strong branch network, primarily supplies

product into the UK repair, maintenance and improvement market as well as the new build and public sector markets. The business, which was acquired by H2 Equity Partners in September 2013, posted group revenue of £173.1 million as at the end of December 2014, up 10.3% year-on-year and adjusted EBITDA increased 70.8% to £26.1 million.

Having announced its intention to proceed with an IPO, its shares listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange with a market capitalisation of £175 million.

The £45 million in funding from Santander Corporate & Commercial and Barclays Corporate Bank will be used to support the Eurocell’s wider growth strategy

in the UK window, door and roofline PVC product market.

Patrick Bateman, Chief Executive of Eurocell, said: “Over the last few years, Eurocell has developed a leading position in the manufacture of innovative window, door and roofline PVC products. We have worked very hard to get to this position. Looking forward, we have exciting plans for the company and I’m wholly confident that the management team has a clear and decisive strategy for growth at this key time for the business.”Richard Venters, Relationship Director at Barclays Corporate, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this long standing customer as they move into the next exciting stage

of their development. With an excellent market position, a clear strategy for growth and a strong management team, we are confident that Eurocell is well placed to capitalise on the opportunities ahead and look forward to supporting them in achieving their ambitions.” Joe Duane, Relationship Director at Santander Corporate & Commercial, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Eurocell at this critical stage in the firm’s history. The business has developed a very strong position in the UK, driven by customer service excellence and high-quality products, and we have no doubt that it will be able to build on this as it looks to expand, launch new products and grow its market share.”

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 57.

BUDDING ENTREPRENEURS OFFERED BUSINESS BOOST WITH LAUNCH OF EDGE CHALLENGE With young people put off from setting up their own business due to lack of funding, credibility and confidence, the Edge Challenge 2015 is being launched to give the country’s brightest young entrepreneurs the chance to succeed.

The Edge Foundation is teaming up with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy and Gazelle Colleges Group to encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs to enter the Edge Challenge and present a bright and innovative business idea with the opportunity to win up to £4000 to develop their start up.

The competition is open to past and present students of any FE or Sixth Form college, aged between 16 & 25 and who have taken (or are undertaking) a course of technical, practical or vocational education.

The winner of the individual challenge will receive £3000 to develop their start up, along with the support of a top business mentor for six months.

Second and third prizes of £1250 and £750 will also be awarded. The winning team with up to five participants will receive £4000 and the support of a mentor to help develop their business proposal.

To enter this exciting competition, students must set out their innovative and viable business idea including a financial and marketing strategy – and the top individual and team entrants will have the opportunity to showcase their ideas at The Skills

Show, taking place at the NEC in Birmingham from November 19th-21st.

Last year’s winner, David Humpston, a former Peter Jones Enterprise Academy student at Amersham & Wycombe College, impressed the judges with the concept behind his action video production company ‘Viewpoint Videos’. He commented:

“The Edge Challenge is a brilliant opportunity for young people to get their business ideas off the ground and potentially make them into real successes. There are too many obstacles in the way for young entrepreneurs who cite a lack of funding, credibility and support as reasons for being unable to progress.

“The Edge Challenge is a brilliant opportunity for young people to get their business ideas off the ground and potentially make them into real successes. There are too many obstacles in the way for young entrepreneurs who cite a lack of funding, credibility and support as reasons for being unable to progress.”

“As a teenage new business owner, the biggest challenge for me is being taken seriously. Winning the Edge Challenge has given me some initial credibility, the opportunity to pitch to successful business people, and the chance to invest the prize money to grow my business. As a result, Viewpoint is growing, and I have now signed several partnerships, including Capital Karts, the longest indoor kart track in the UK.” Jan Hodges OBE, CEO of independent education charity, the Edge Foundation, says:

Are you dealing with HR issues instead of focusing on growing your business?

At Edge, we want every young person to have the opportunity to pursue their ambitions and fulfil their potential. The Edge Foundation promotes technical, practical and vocational learning and this competition will undoubtedly highlight the incredible talent amongst students on such courses.

Peter Jones CBE, Founder of the Peter Jones Foundation says: “I am delighted that the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy will be working in partnership with the Edge Foundation and the Gazelle Colleges Group

to deliver the Edge Challenge once again.

“Every ambitious young person should have the opportunity to gain the skills and confidence needed to realise their business dreams. This competition will allow young entrepreneurs from my Academy and beyond to pitch their innovative ideas for a chance to win a fantastic financial reward and access to invaluable business mentoring. I’m proud to be backing this competition and encourage budding entrepreneurs to apply.”

Fintan Donohue, CEO Gazelle Colleges Group, says: “The Gazelle Colleges Group was founded to create new opportunities for students seeking to build their own futures through a more enterprising and enriching experience at their local college.

This fundamental purpose is to give students the commercial skills and experience that will enable them to either create their own businesses or be work ready. Gazelle is delighted to be partnering with the Edge Foundation and the Peter Jones Foundation on this competition that will allow our students to put themselves in the running for an outstanding prize of up to £4,000 start-up funding and expert business mentoring.

“This competition will culminate with an exhibition at The Skills Show in Birmingham in November.

It is also an exciting opportunity for students to demonstrate their entrepreneurial potential.”

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Page 58. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

UK BUSINESSES COULD GAIN ADDITIONAL £18BN REVENUE FROM APPRENTICESHIPS •

Report reveals 5 million consumers would prefer to do business with apprentice employers

•

One in four consumers in the North East would pay a price-premium for services or products that champion apprentices

•

National Apprenticeship Week starts today with events across Derbyshire

Consumers in the North East prefer to do business with businesses employing apprentices, a new report from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has revealed.

The Benefits of Apprenticeships to Businesses study finds that offering apprenticeships were perceived by 62% of the North East as contributing to society and providing opportunities for young people. Nationally, 5 million consumers say they are more likely to make a purchase from an apprentice employer.

Over a quarter (28%) of consumers from the North East say they would go as far as even paying more for goods and services offered by companies that employ apprentices. Aggregated across key sectors in the economy, this price-premium would equate to an additional £18 billion a year in consumer spending nationally.

The report, launched to mark the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2015, is part of a national drive to promote the benefits of apprenticeships.

Events taking place across Derbyshire will celebrate the success of apprenticeships that have been transformed over recent years so they are more responsive to the needs of employers and learners.

The week will also see the launch of a new mentoring service for small businesses interested in taking on apprentices and will be launched by small business champion Jason Holt CBE. Today’s research also highlights a number of other financial benefits firms employing apprentices in the North East can enjoy, such as increased long-term productivity. Nationally, a typical apprentice delivers productivity gains of over £10,000 per annum, rising to almost double that in the construction and planning, and engineering and manufacturing sectors.

Moreover, the research demonstrates that even before an apprentice is fully qualified, many businesses across the North East will see economic benefits of offering apprenticeships. The figures show that while training, each apprentice in the region is estimated to deliver an average positive net gain of £1,626 to their employers.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “In launching National Apprenticeship Week we are celebrating the 2.1 million apprenticeship starts since 2010 and the positive impact they are having on businesses around the country.

“The benefits of apprenticeships are clear - they make a vital contribution to the economy, boost business productivity and give people the skills they

need to get on in the world of work.

“As this research shows, there has been an important shift in the attitudes towards apprenticeships with businesses, consumers, and young people recognising the significant opportunities they can offer.”

Skills Minister Nick Boles said: “This research is further proof that apprenticeships deliver for businesses as well as providing life changing opportunities for young people.

“National Apprenticeship Week gives us the opportunity to raise the profile of apprenticeships and traineeships, and to celebrate the important role they play in our economy. I encourage people of all ages and employers of all shapes and sizes to find out more about apprenticeships and how they can deliver for them.”

The Cebr report examines the benefits that apprentices offer businesses both while they are training and long after they have completed their apprenticeships: • 28% of consumers in the North East said that they would be more likely to pay more for goods and services offered by businesses employing apprentices, with the most popular services to pay a premium on being a plumbers’ visit, a meal or a haircut.

• People in the North East are prepared to pay between 1.4% and 2.4% extra as a price premium – the aggregate gain in consumer spending nationally if these premiums are

realised is £18bn per annum The benefit to a North East employer of hiring an apprentice is the value of the economic output produced by an apprentice, plus any subsidies received, less wage and training costs. This equates to an average of £1,626 per annum for the average apprentice in the North East.

• Nationally, productivity gains from employing an apprentice long-term average at £214 per week, ranging from £83 in the retail sector and £114 in health, public services and care, up to £401 in construction and planning, and £414 per in engineering and manufacturing.

Scott Corfe, co-author of the report The Benefits of Apprenticeships to Businesses, said: “Previous Cebr research has demonstrated the impact of apprenticeships to the economy and the country as a whole, but this report proves that hiring apprentices has a hugely positive impact on employers themselves. Not only do apprentices contribute to the productivity of a company from day one, but consumers are more likely to switch to brands and firms that employ apprentices.”

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, employers in the North East are being encouraged to share their reasons for employing apprentices on social media, with #100reasonswhy.

•

To find out more about National Apprenticeship Week, search for apprenticeships on www.gov.uk.

Derby Skillbuild is a charitable training provider that focuses on supporting young people in the local community to develop their full potential. Training facilities are based on a 12 acre site situated in Allenton, Derby and offers a wide range of learning opportunities for young people aged between 14 and 19.

We offer a Study Programme with a choice of qualifications ranging from Entry Ent 3 to Level 2.

For more information: Tel: 01332 291722 Email: Skillbuild2004@yahoo.co.uk Moor Lane, Allenton, Derby, DE24 9HY www.derbyskillbuild.org

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 59.

Ignite is looking for bright business ideas from Oxford’s energy entrepreneurs Ignite has today announced the launch of a regional roadshow that will take place in Oxford on 20 April 2015. The roadshow is looking for people with a bright business idea that uses energy to make a difference to people’s lives. The ideas will be pitched to a panel of experts with successful applicants receiving a package of pre-investment support that could potentially lead to an investment of up to £2 million.

The Ignite roadshow is open to anyone with a bright business idea that uses energy, meets the requirement of making a difference to people’s lives and needs help in getting the idea investment ready.

The idea will eventually be looking for an investment of between £50,000 and £2 million by the end of 2015.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to pitch their idea to a panel of industry and social

enterprise experts at the roadshow in Oxford on 20 April. The most successful pitches will win a package of pre-investment support to get their business ready to pitch for investment from the Ignite Investment Committee by the end of 2015.

The first regional Ignite roadshow in Oxford is being held in partnership with Saïd Business School (part of Oxford University), the Low Carbon Hub, Oxfordshire Business Support and Oxfordshire Social Entrepreneurship Partnership.

The application process is open now and the final deadline for entrepreneurs to submit their ideas is 27 March 2015. For more information and to apply, please visit: ignitesocialenterprise.com/challenge/ Ignite is the UK’s first impact investment fund with a focus on energy. Together with backing from Centrica PLC (the UK’s largest energy supplier), Ignite will provide funding of £10 million over the

next ten years through investments in the UK of between £50,000 and £2 million.

Sarwjit Sambhi, Managing Director of Centrica Energy Exploration & Production and member of the Ignite Investment Committee, said: “The best ideas are often the ones that start small.

Energy is relevant to each and every one of us and Centrica is delighted to be able to support Ignite on the Oxford roadshow.

Ignite works to help entrepreneurs with the vital role they play in building a better society. We encourage anybody who has a bright energy idea and who wants to make a positive difference to apply. I am personally looking forward to meeting many of these entrepreneurs in 2015.”

Zelga Anderson, Skoll & Entrepreneurship Head of Operations at Saïd Business School, said: “We are delighted to support the roadshow as it

gives entrepreneurs an opportunity to take their idea forward and have a positive impact on society. We at the Skoll and Entrepreneurship Centres at Saïd Business School are keen to showcase such bright talent, and to nurture where we can tomorrow’s change makers.”

Anne Augustine, Director of Innovation for the Low Carbon Hub, said: “There is significant expertise and enthusiasm across the region for enterprises that have a clear social purpose; as well as greater collaboration across universities, local authorities, businesses and communities. All ideas need help to get started and by working with Ignite, we will be able match valuable resources to ideas that have the potential for positive social and environmental impact on the region.”

The Tax Benefits Of Thinking Inside ‘The Box’ – The Patent Box.

by Pete Miller of The Miller Partnership Is your company making trading profits through exploiting patents?

If it is, have you considered the amount of tax relief you could be saving with the Patent Box? Introduced on April 1 2013 to encourage UK innovation and entrepreneurship, the Patent Box is a relief which will, in due course, allow companies who own patents to cut their overall Corporation Tax rate substantially.

It is being phased in over five years from April 1 2013, with relief standing at 60% of the maximum in FY 2013, at 70% in FY 2014 and reaching 100 % in FY 2017.

So, if you or your client is a trading company with profits from exploiting patents after March 31 2013, you might want to consider what Patent Box relief could do for you.

First, you’ll need to ask the following questions:

We’ve also been working with our clients to ensure that they will continue to qualify for relief through the Patent Box should their business be affected by group reorganisations, sales or mergers, for example.

Patent Box is particularly generous in that even if you don’t yet hold a patent, you could benefit by applying for one now. The notional relief available starts to accumulate from the time the patent is applied for and can be claimed once the patent is granted.

And applying for a patent might not be as expensive as you might think.

To find out more, please contact The Miller Partnership by phone or email right away for a free consultation. If you’re eligible for the Patent Box we’ll do the necessary tax computations.

But remember, this relief is only available from the time you apply for the patent, so don’t delay.

• Does the company own patents which it exploits as part of its trade?

• Or does the company exploit someone else’s patent under an exclusive licence?

• Does the company have intellectual property that could be patented so that patent box relief can be claimed?

If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, the Patent Box may well be available to you.

In recent months I’ve received many inquiries from companies and/or their accountants in sectors as diverse as home interiors and civil engineering – and most stand to benefit substantially from this welcome tax relief.

pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com

Integritas Financial Planners based in Swadlincote is owned and led by Mark Johnson a Chartered Financial P l a n n e r . “ P e n s i o n Freedom” This month Mark looks at F l ex i - A c c e s s Drawdown (FAD) FAD is a new form of Income Drawdown available alongside the existing capped drawdown or short term annuity plans. It will replace the existing capped and flexible drawdown option available to new clients from 6th April 2015, and will also replace current flexible drawdown plans.

• There will be no limits on the level of income that can be withdrawn.

• There will be no minimum secure income requirement.

• Plan holder can take 25% tax free cash from their designated drawdown fund, subject to available Lifetime Allowance, as previously.

• Whilst only tax free cash is taken, Annual Allowance will remain at £40,000.

• Balance of the pension fund can remain invested.

• Access to income can be through a lump sum and/or flexible income and would be subject to the marginal rate of income tax.

• Once any taxable income is taken, a £10,000 money purchase annual allowance (MPAA) will apply.

• All pre April 2015 flexible drawdown arrangements automatically become FAD

• All new drawdown plans taken out from 6th April 2015 will be classed as FAD.

For more information you can contact Integritas at enquiries@integritasfp.co.uk or on 01283 777014

The option of annuity purchase still remains and should be considered before accessing a pension fund through FAD.

Integritas Financial Planners Ltd is an appointed representative of Financial Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Page 60. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Productivity and your people Last month I talked about the challenge to raise productivity. Productivity can be improved in many ways, including investments in people, processes and machinery. The common factor governing whether these investments deliver planned improvements, is your people.

All your competitors can make the same sort of investments. They will employ similar processes and if you are in manufacturing, similar if not identical machinery, to your business. What distinguishes you from them is your people and how you develop their skills.

A business culture is a complex way of saying "the way we do things around here". That is the context, you create for people to work in. If your employees feel that you only think of them as a number, will

they be a force to be reckoned with, that is valued by your customers and which stands out from your competitors?

What would be the difference if they looked forward to coming to work, because they enjoyed their work and the people they work with, including you and your management colleagues? When this is true, your employees are fully engaged in their work.

They want to give of their best and they understand what it is the company wants them to do. Why am I discussing all of this? The reason is simple, where this is true companies outperform their competitors.

Do you outperform your competitors and are you valued by your customers?

Where is the evidence to support this?*

Engaged Employees

Import Factor

Unengaged Emplyees

2.7

Days of sickness absence

6.2

Less likely to leave on 1:4 ratio

Likely to leave an organisation

More likely to leave on 4:1 ratio

The Olympic Delivery Authority had an accident rate of less than half the average for Construction

Accident Rate

UK Construction Industry

66%

Employees felt that their work brought out their most creative ideas

3%

*Information from Emily Anderton and Stephen Bevan 2014 Paper for the Work Foundation In consequence they conclude “foster increased productivity and performance (investing as little as 10% in strategies that foster engagement could contribute £49 billion towards UK economic growth.”

Do you want a share of that gain?

Why would that gain be possible? Let us look at the two these pieces of information, which apply to every business and examine them in relation to your own business. The issues of lost time accidents and the need for creativity are also very important and can be looked at in more detail another month.

Sickness Absence: What would it mean for your business if your average sickness absence was less than half the current level? How disruptive is it each day to sort out the consequences of balancing workloads to take account of absence? Do you actually employ more people than you need to, to enable you to cover absence. If so, how much does that cost you?

Crucially, when were you last off work with illness?

I bet you cannot remember. it is such a rare occurrence. What would be the impact if everybody came to work every day with your enthusiasm? It

could make a huge difference could it not? Why do your employees not feel the same about their work as you do?

Labour Turnover: You will see many figures for the impact of unplanned losses of staff. The only one that matters is the one for your business. The tip of the iceberg is the recruitment and training costs to get the new employee effective in your business. How much do you calculate that to be in your business? Some jobs, especially sales jobs have a large impact on your ability to sell. What damage is done to your business by a salesman looking for another job? How long does it take and how many sales could you lose?

At least 3 times an employee’s employment cost is probably conservative?

What can you do?

Next month we will look at some of the measures successful businesses use to create a work place full of highly committed employees focused on delivering superior performance, because they have “good jobs” not “bad jobs”.

RICS welcomes £60 million Midlands investment RICS responds to Budget 2015 RICS welcomes the announcement by the Chancellor today that the government is giving the go-ahead to a £60 million investment in a new Energy Research Accelerator, recognising the Midlands as an engine of manufacturing growth.

RICS members’ voice is loudest when it comes to the need to focus on regional growth. It is clear that across the country housing, planning and development, construction and infrastructure must be made relevant to the specific needs of local markets, meeting the needs of communities and unlocking local growth.

RICS asks all political parties to focus on local growth and devolving further spending powers and responsibilities for infrastructure and housing delivery to regions.

Jeremy Blackburn, RICS Head of Policy, said: “Less of a final Budget, more of a Party Political Broadcast, with insufficient focus on land and construction as drivers of growth.

A review of IHT Deeds of Variation is a lacklustre measure and combined with annuity cash releases are unlikely to encourage baby boomers to downsize and bring new supply to the market.

Rebalancing the economy across the regions is vital and we welcome the focus on 20 housing zones outside the Capital and the eight proposed housing zones across the rest of the UK to create the much needed 45,000 new homes.

We welcome the City Deals, enterprise zones and business rate retention, which will create opportunities for greater property investment across the regions.”

All in a days work and absolutely no problem at all What are the curtains in your house like? . . . It turns out that the cute little Kiwi bird image that something off the peg from Dunelm, or are you was part of the logo, was inspired from a New creative, like me . . . .

Zealand Tattoo design. . . . . . . before my boys were born pre-motherhood, I designed and made quite a lot of the curtains in our first house. . .

. . . goes to show you can get your ideas from all over. And as Ms H is in fact from New Zealand than its perfectly appropriate to integrate some of herself in to her brand.

Nowadays, in this, our third house, we mostly have stuff inherited from the previous owner . . . . Ms H supplied me with her low quality logo file, and I re-created it as a high quality vector image, I do have a nice piece of fabric . . . . . . originally experimenting with font styles, and doing a purchased for covering a chair but now on a long selection of designs for her business card layout. term promise to my eldest son for his bedroom curtains . . . .

Ms H, is a very talented and creative lady herself, so the design she had done for her invoices was “where on earth is she going with this?” I hear pretty good. . . you ask . . . I integrated the new logo design and made . . . . maybe I should ask my latest client to run a few professional improvements, and provided them up for me, and he might actually get them her with blank PDF files for, standard Letterhead, done before the summer! invoice and quotation which she could overprint Logo design and Stationery work for Staffordshire with each new job . . . curtain maker and soft furnishing creator, is Wild . . . to maintain consistency and professionalism Ideas most recent completed design project. across all her paperwork.

Originally, Ms H, at Kiwi-ana, ( in the vein of a lot of new businesses) just put together some simple branding to get herself going before she had the money to invest in a professional.

The 500 business cards were printed on quality 450gsm art-board, to a very high standard by a local printer I have met at the Burton Business Club. . . .

I then met her at an FSB networking evening at . . . . A bit of website advice, and she decided Drayton Manor Hotel. . . .and gave her some that the Staffs curtains domain site could carry design tips . . . on drawing in new internet business, but any face . . . . and my professional opinion on the ideas to face clients would be directed to the kiwi-ana she had for her logo, but unfortunately the person site. . . helping with her website had not had the skill to . . . and as ever, to assist my clients with their execute them. budgeting the invoice costs are spread interestWith the curtain business moving from strength to strength . . . . last month Ms H was in a position to sharpen everything up a little and upgrade her branding.

free over 3 – 6 months.

Another very enjoyable project completed. If you want to look at the finished work, its on my pinterest pages here . . . .

She wanted new business cards, her logo . . . but most of all, next time you want to change tweaking, as I had suggested, and some your curtains, do yourself a favour and look here business stationery for her quotations/invoices first! and compliment slips . . . . . . . it’s all in a days work and absolutely no . . . and a few questions about SEO and website problem at all for Kiwi-ana.co.uk performance, as she was currently running a very successful staffordshire curtains website alongside her preferred new Kiwi-ana site.

Thanks for reading

. . . all in a days work and absolutely no problem at all.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 61.

10 tips for business success you can learn from Breaking Bad: 1. Once you’ve produced your product/service, you need people to sell it. This can be outsourced.

2. Your product line can consist of only 1 product – as long as it is the best and cannot be easily replicated!

3. Consider the use of colour and/or efficacy to differentiate your product in the market place.

4. Expertise will set you above others in the same market and make you irreplaceable.

5. Focus on dominating your local market before expanding abroad.

6. Surround yourself with people who will get things done.

7. Always be one step ahead of the competition.

8. Ensure the security of your supply chain and materials.

9. Ensure your production can scale with demand.

10. Word of mouth is the most effective form of promotion.

How To Prepare For Google’s Mobile-Friendly Algorithm Update How often do you use your mobile device to search or view a website on the internet? It’s probably a lot more than you did a few years ago right? Well, you aren’t alone as currently up to 30% of web traffic is made up by mobile devices and the number is increasing all the time.

Do you know the importance of the 21st of April 2015?

Google will be changing the way your website appears in it’s rankings based on searches conducted with a mobile device, it could have a major impact on where you appear on the search giants results and regardless of which industry you are in this will affect you!

50% of searches via Google are conducted on mobile devices, If you are currently sitting pretty on page 1 of a search engine results page and your website isn’t optimised then the traffic to your site could be affected, imagine the potential loss of customers and visits due to this change.

Small text, big hands - Some do’s and don’ts for a great looking mobile-friendly website.

It’s a fact that current mobile screens are smaller than desktops, 5 into 1 simply will not go so if you find yourself squinting more than a cowboy in a gun fight when reading text then imagine how this is also affecting your visitors when they come to view your site, its maybe worth considering adjusting the size of the text so its large enough to read comfortably, zooming in and out of a web page is tedious and fiddly at best.

We all suffer from sausage fingers from time to time and it comes as no surprise that a poorly designed website can be a potential nightmare to navigate, but we can make things easier by positioning links on our website so they are not

close together and hard to pick out, think back to when you were young and you tried to open a packet of sweets with your mittens on, annoying wasn’t it?

Make sure your content is clear, visible and isn’t wider than your average mobile screen, if you are having to constantly scroll left and right to read articles or to browse products you could potentially lose a visitor or sale.

Avoid using the Adobe Flash plug-in where possible as this platform is not commonly supported on all mobile devices and does not display correctly or at all in some cases, the new Google algorithm will factor in the use of Flash on your site and you should consider updating your website to the latest HTML standard.

Is it worth the risk not updating? And how can I get help to make sure my website is mobilefriendly should I wish to make the changes?

There are a number of reasons why you should consider optimising your website for mobile devices, not only for the new changes that Google are going to introduce but as we explained earlier it’s also important for the overall visual and user experience when people visit your site.

We are experts in search engine optimisation and we can give your website a free health check and assessment, we will provide you with information on how ready your site is for the upcoming update and recommend any changes that might need to be made.

Many businesses have already taken the next step to secure the future of their website and to make sure that they don’t drop down in the search engine rankings, can you afford not to do the same?

A reminder to make the most of the tax year end I can’t believe that we are hurtling to the end of yet another tax year on 5th April, and as usual, we all need reminders to get things completed, to avoid losing annual allowances. So to help, I’d like to provide you with some basic information that will allow you to check, and consider your own situation, before the tax year ends.

But before I do this, let’s agree that if you don’t get around to completing these tasks in time, all is not lost. Why not use the impetus gathered to address the new tax year early and thereby avoid this almighty rush at the end of the next, because we know it will come around fast!

Things for you to consider: Use your New Individual Savings Account (NISA) – For UK residents age 16 or over, you can invest up to £15,000 in the NISA. Investments can be made into deposit-based savings, or stocks and shares, or a combination of the two. Once invested, the funds grow without deduction of Income Tax on interest, dividends (beware the tax credit on dividends can’t be reclaimed) and other income generated, and there is no liability to Capital Gains Tax in the future, when assets are eventually sold.

Use up your Capital Gains Tax (GCT) allowance – we all have an annual allowance for CGT. For the current 2014-15 tax year, this allowance is £11,000.

This means that any gains made in the tax year do not attract CGT, if the total of all gains does not exceed £11,000.

Contribute to a pension – If you are aged 75 and under, with relevant earnings, and for certain groups who do not have relevant earnings, then it is likely to be very sensible to consider making pension

contributions.

You can contribute the higher of £3,600, or your relevant earnings, into a qualifying pension plan, up to a maximum of £40,000 each tax year. The gross amount you contribute is offset by the basic rate of tax (currently 20%). So, if you paid £10,000 into a pension, the amount considered invested in the pension is £12,500, as the pension reclaims this basis rate tax. In addition, if you pay higher rate, or the highest tax rate, it is possible to reclaim the additional tax relief by completing an annual self-assessment form.

Sadly, it is only possible to cover some of the basic ‘reminders’ in an article such as this, especially as there are many different taxes to cover, such as Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax, National Insurance to name but a few.

Rachael Brown, Dip PFS. Rachael lives in Derby and has been working in Financial Services for over 20 years.

If you would like to discuss any of the topics within this article, or would like to talk me further, please do not hesitate to contact me: Tel: 07966888737 / 01332 551063 Email: Rachael.brown@afhgroup. com Website: www.afhwm.co.uk AFH Wealth Management is a trading style of AFH Independent Financial Services Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register no. 216704.

This article is for generic information only and should not be construed as advice. Please contact us before proceeding with any course of action.

Page 62. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Pendersons are industry leaders for training, assessment and consultancy. With over 25 years experience in providing specialist and dedicated services to our customers within the rail industry, we are proud to announce that we have introduced several new apprenticeships.

Managing Conflict at Work Well Spring has sprung and every year as the weather improves and the days get longer employers get to grips with…. handling the latest round of disagreements! The on topic conversation that everyone has an opinion on, at the moment, is whether or not Jeremy Clarkson will be presenting Top Gear in the future. Who knows?

Unlike the BBC not all businesses operate in the spotlight and unlike Jeremy Clarkson not all employees contribute significantly to the success of a specific product, such as a TV show. But that’s where the differences end because all businesses are likely to experience workplace conflict at some point.

But is workplace conflict a flash in the pan or a boiling pot of trouble?

Recent CIPD statistics show that employers of all sizes 19% small organisations and 28% of medium to large organisations consider conflict to be a common part of their workplace. No sector escapes this common workplace problem 31% Public

24% Private and 25% Voluntary. In 2012 the CBI estimated the cost of conflict for UK businesses to be a massive £33bil. Staggering!

So what’s an employer to do?

One of two things tend to happen, situations either get ignored or dealt with and in the case of conflict, ignorance is not bliss! So get the right sort of help at the right time. Our interventions help you deal with the here and now as well as equip you to handle future situations.

Let’s Talk Consultancy are supporting businesses to achieve their purpose HR, Training or Conflict Resolution services - Call 079 0562 7439 now to arrange a no-obligation company visit or email letstalk@letstalkconsultancy.co.uk Bye for now, Lindsey-Jayne Trueman, Chartered MCIPD, PGDip and Accredited Workplace and Community Mediator.

SMALL FARM BUSINESSES IN THE EAST MIDLANDS ARE URGED TO GET ONLINE FOR RURAL PAYMENTS Smaller farms in the East Midlands are registering for Rural Payments at one of the lowest rates across the country, according to new research from the RPA. The RPA reveals that in the East Midlands 84 per cent of larger farm claimants have registered, as opposed to 46 per cent of small farm businesses.

The new digital service called Rural Payments is now the only way for farmers and landowners to claim their money.

Overall, larger farms have been the first to register – and this trend can also been seen in other regions across the country.

The RPA is urging small farm businesses in the East Midlands to contact the Rural Payments helpline to register without delay.

Recently the Agency launched a ‘#Tell10’ social media campaign to help spread the word among rural communities in the region – encouraging farmers who have registered to tell ten of their

friends, family and neighbours to register as soon as possible.

RPA Customer Director Justin Chamberlain said: “We are urging all small farming businesses which have not yet registered for the Basic Payment Scheme to please call the Rural Payments helpline now.

“What we have seen is that larger farms have been the first to register for BPS. We must ensure that small business which depend on rural payments do not miss out on making a claim.

“There is a lot to do this year and that will involve farmers building their claim. It will be easier in future years once we have all farmers’ information confirmed on the service. This is why registering now to start the claim is so important.

If farmers haven’t registered yet, we would urge you to do so now. Farmers can register online at www.gov.uk/ruralpayments or call the Rural Payments helpline on 03000 200 301.

At Pendersons we strongly believe in “going the extra mile” for all of our clientele through consultation to identify your training and development requirements. We also believe the proven way to get the skills, knowledge and employees you want is through a Pendersons apprenticeship programme. Our apprenticeships are flexible and relevant to your business and the most effective way to up-skill your workforce.

Pendersons work with you and your staff to develop tailored apprenticeship programmes to move your business forward.

aimed at learners working within a team leading role. It forms the knowledge and competency requirements of the Intermediate Apprenticeship in Team Leading. It can also be used on a standalone basis.

Customer Service ~ designed for learners who deal with customers on a daily basis as part of their job role and wish to improve their knowledge and skills.

Business Administration ~ aimed at learners working within a business and administration role who wish to improve their knowledge and skills in a variety of work environments and sectors.

All apprenticeships delivered by Pendersons are fully funded subject to eligibility. We are expert at helping you to find the best candidates for your apprenticeship vacancies. Not only do we deliver We now offer Apprenticeships in the following: real results, we deliver the results your business is looking for by helping you recruit and train the Warehousing and Distribution ~ covers the workforce of tomorrow. movement and storage of goods, and is an Contact us today to discover how we can transform essential part of logistics operations. your workforce. Call 01538 756596 or email Team Leading ~ an accredited qualification sales@pendersons.com

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 63.

Recycling Scheme, or applying for a free two-yearold childcare place.

The aim of the new website is to make it more convenient for the public to access the services they need, and is all part of the Council’s commitment to delivering good quality services.

Providing services on line will also help the Council focus on maintaining services for our more vulnerable customers, as well as delivering significant budget savings required because of funding cuts from government.

GET ACCESS TO YOUR COUNCIL SERVICES ONLINE ANYTIME WITH ‘DERBY DIRECT TO YOU’ Derby City Council is enabling residents to access a range of services quicker and easier online through its new and improved website ‘Derby Direct to You’.

The service, which is available at https:// directtoyou.derby.gov.uk lets Derby residents carry out a variety of activities with the click of a mouse, from getting information about Council services to signing up for the Garden

Councillor Baggy Shanker, Cabinet Member for Governance and Transformation, said: “Technology is becoming more and more prevalent in everyday life, and people are now accustomed to finding information online via computers, tablets and mobile phones.

“As a result, we’ve moved as many of our services online as possible, making it more convenient for customers to access our services. The new website will direct people to the right information quickly, and allow them to complete more transactions online faster and more efficiently.

“We are determined to improve and enhance the way we deal with our customers and this innovative new resource sits very well with that ambition.

Customers now have more choice, as they can either call us or look online. I’m really excited about the possibilities this new website presents, and would encourage Derby residents to get online and take a look.”

Page 64. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

The Great App Hack seeks creative techies

£214million for businesses, jobs, skills and communities in D2N2 area Funding worth £214million will be made available to support innovation and business growth, entrepreneurs, low carbon businesses, digital connectivity, skills, employment and tackle social exclusion in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire – • through the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership.

D2N2 is a partnership of businesses, local authorities, universities, further education providers and voluntary organisations across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, which drives forward economic growth and prosperity.

It is being allocated £214m of European • Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) – one of the largest ESIF funds allocated to any of the UK’s 39 Local Enterprise Partnerships – for its long-term strategy (running to 2020) to tackle priorities in its area, including: 5,000 businesses supported, particularly in sectors such as information communication technology (ICT), and low carbon and ‘green’ energy;

a competitive culture develop among established and start-up companies, and will aid this by promoting entrepreneurship activities.

D2N2 has identified eight sectors – food and drink, construction, transport and logistics, low carbon, life sciences, the visitor economy, creative industries and transport equipment manufacture – as priorities for business support in its area.

More information on D2N2’s priority sectors and related action plans can be found at www.d2n2lep.org/EUFunding/KeyDocuments Low Carbon – Supporting the national drive moving the UK economy towards a ‘low carbon’ model and to build our competitive advantage in such an economy. This involves reducing levels of ‘greenhouse gas’ emissions, making the most of low carbon technology, developing low carbon goods and services, enhancing energy efficiency and making transport more sustainable.

This will deliver the aims of D2N2’s own Low Carbon plan, available at web link www.d2n2lep.org/lowcarbon

The Department of Business Innovation and Skills, along with tech businesses the Talent Cupboard and HP, are looking for 20 local companies and 30 talented computer science, business studies or marketing students to get involved in developing a new app for small businesses.

Would-be participants are being invited to a free one day workshop, the GREAT App Hack, at the Lighthouse Gallery, Brighton, on Monday 23 March 2015 from 10:30am- 6pm, where they will work on their ideas in teams to create visual designs and a working model that they will then pitch to a ‘Dragons’ Den’ panel of entrepreneurs and senior business leaders. The winning team will receive a prize at a drinks and networking reception the same evening.

The event is part of a series of government schemes, which include @BusinessisGREAT and #DoMoreOnline, designed to drive up awareness and use of business support and to get more small businesses online. The day will offer small

businesses the opportunity to connect with local digital talent and give students a chance to gain work experience in a business setting.

Attendees will need to take along a laptop but wifi connection, food and drink will be provided.

Geoffrey Bowden, chair of BHCC’s Economic Development and Culture committee, says: ”This is a brilliant opportunity for students and businesses to come together in a fun, competitive, environment and show off their creative talent.

Digital and creative industries are an increasingly important feature of our city’s employment makeup and this event is something we wholeheartedly support. The day offers scope for practicing negotiation and presentation skills and working on a live project such as this is a great one for the cv.”

The app will be launched on the BUSINESS IS GREAT BRITAIN website: http://www.greatbusiness.gov.uk/, which provides support, advice and inspiration for growing businesses.

400 start-up businesses aided;

If successful up to half a project’s funding could be provided, with the other half coming from the bidders themselves. All ‘calls’ for funding bids will 8,000 people helped in overcoming social be published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) at website www. exclusion; gov.uk/european-growth-funding 15,000 people helped to find employment;

2,500 business assisted in improving their Information about the ‘calls’ for project bids, employee’s skills levels.

D2N2’s ESIF Strategy, and details of events The funding has been in the planning stage for giving advice and guidance on accessing some time but is now beginning to be delivered. funding for different priority areas, can be found at www.d2n2lep.org/EUFunding Over the next few months D2N2 will work with Government departments to make a series of ESIF funding opportunities available, which businesses and others can apply to if their project addresses the priorities identified in D2N2’s Strategic Economic Plan.

Bids will be made in a two-stage application process, with bidders initially required to submit an ‘expression of interest’. Government will assess the bids and the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership will consider the strategic fit.

Funding for D2N2’s ESIF Strategy will include £104m from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), £104m from the European Social Fund (ESF) and £5.5m from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Further early opportunities to bid will include delivery of the Youth Employment Initiative in Nottingham and, later in the summer (2015), the delivery of the EMPLOY Local and SKILLS Local schemes in the D2N2 area, aimed at reducing unemployment and developing higher work skills.

The first ‘calls’ for bids – to be made this month David Ralph, Chief Executive of D2N2 Local (March) – will address the D2N2 priority areas of: Enterprise Partnership, said: “Around £214million through the European Structural and Investment • Innovation – Funding to increase the Fund between now and 2020 gives D2N2 a amount of small and medium-sized terrific resource to help boost employment enterprises (SMEs) creating innovative and skills, develop businesses, promote social products or processes, to improve inclusion and support communities in Derby, economic performance.

Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

• This will deliver the ambitions set out in D2N2’s innovation strategy – Time to “I’d urge businesses, training and education Innovate (available online at www.d2n2lep. providers, community groups and others to take org/Innovation ) – which focuses on creating advantage of this major opportunity, to promote an encouraging environment for innovators, economic growth in the D2N2 area. We aim supporting businesses who innovate and to create 55,000 jobs in the area in ten years helping them exploit their ideas. (by 2023). This funding is an important help in • SME Competitiveness – Improving small achieving that goal.” and medium-sized enterprises’ competitive edge by helping grow their ability to More information on the D2N2 Local Enterprise compete and opportunities to demonstrate Partnership and its activities can be found at its website at www.d2n2lep.org entrepreneurship. D2N2 wants to see

Poor internet connections cost East Midlands economy £1.1bn a year • • •

Workers lose 49 hours every year due to slow internet access 34% of employees say internet at home is faster than at work 6% workers look for other jobs during periods of IT downtime

Despite a growing reliance amongst businesses on the internet, recent research has discovered that slow internet connections are costing the East Midlands economy £1.1bn a year in lost productivity, as more than a million are left unable to work during periods of IT downtime.

The research commissioned by business communications firm, Daisy Group, found that the average worker is unable to complete their normal job responsibilities for up to 56 minutes every week due to poor broadband speeds, while 11 per cent admitted that their internet connection grinds to a halt more than 13 times in any given seven day period.

According to the study, more than a third (34%) of respondents said that their home internet connection was ‘much faster’ than the one they use at work. This is despite the government’s effort to roll out fibre broadband across the UK and offer free grants to subside the costs of upgrading a connection.

Jan Wielenga, Product Manager for Data Networks at Daisy Group, said: "Too many businesses are still relying on basic ADSL connections that are aimed at the residential users. These are businesses that struggle to cope with the high-bandwidth demands of software and apps that workers use.

“It is simply unacceptable for businesses that rely heavily on the internet to experience periods of downtime, particularly at a time when fibre and dedicated Ethernet connections have never been more affordable and available.

“The internet going down or running slowly for 56 minutes per week doesn’t sound much, but the result of any loss of productivity is that businesses suffer.”

During periods of slow internet access, half (50%) of those surveyed admitted that they turn to their smartphones for non-related work activities, such as online shopping and checking social media.

Worryingly, six per cent of respondents admitted to using their smartphones to look for other jobs when they have no internet access.

The research suggests that the average worker loses 49 hours of productivity a year through slow internet access or IT downtime. Taking the UK’s average wage of £13 per hour, and 77% of the East Midlands’ workforce of 2.2 million that use the internet in their job roles, it is estimated that £637 worth of productivity is lost per employee per year, which across the region mounts up to a staggering £994m.

The research was conducted to assess the takeup of the government’s SuperConnected Cities scheme that helps subsidise the cost of a superfast connection upgrade for SMEs. Businesses located within a defined postcode in 22 cities are currently eligible for a grant of up to £3,000, with more cities due to be added to the scheme in April 2015.

“A strong digital infrastructure has become the backbone of any forward-thinking organisation because it ensures that they are prepared for the future. However, there is a lack of awareness amongst SMEs that the SuperConnected Cities scheme exists which is hindering the UK economy.

Now really is the time to upgrade to avoid being left behind the competition,” added Wielenga.

To assist SMEs decide which connectivity solution meets their requirements, in conjunction with the CBI, Daisy is hosting a free webinar on the subject on 26th March. The event is being hosted by one of Daisy’s data network experts and will also feature the CBI’s Tom Thackray, Head of Enterprise and member of the CBI’s digital team.

Information on the event can be found here: www.daisygroup.com/superfast-connectivitysme-webinar/

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 65.

“If you prefer to earn whilst you learn, in a real working role, then an Apprenticeship could be for you.”

Young people are now legally required to stay in training or education up until their 18th birthday.

This does not mean that they have to stay in school and that working in a real job is no longer an option. Apprenticeships are a mix of real work, training and education – an option that is increasing in popularity, not only for young people but adults too! Buxton & Leek College offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, across a number of sectors and want to help raise the awareness of what apprenticeships are and how they can be a great career choice.

Apprenticeships already attract UCAS points or allow you to study for a Technical Certificate. You can read about some of our Apprenticeship success stories at www.blc.ac.uk to see what our Apprentices have gone on to achieve in their careers.

What do I need to become an Apprentice?

The usual requirements to become an apprentice are: • You must be 16 years or older • GCSE Maths and English at grade A*- D • To have an employer in mind, or be able to work with us to find you an apprenticeship employer – at Apprenticeships give learners the opportunity Buxton & Leek College we work with a wide range to gain a recognised qualification and develop of employers. Our Apprenticeship vacancies are professional workplace skills whilst earning a salary. always available on our website.

They’re ideal for learners who want to go straight into employment whilst continuing their education and training.

Apprentices come into College one-day a week, and specialist Assessors from Skillsbase, the employment training division of Buxton & Leek College, visit them at their place of work as part of the programme, working closely with their employer.

There are currently over 150,000 employers nationwide who recruit Apprentices including large businesses, public sector organisations, charities and councils as well local independent businesses.

Research by the National Apprenticeship Service shows that 85% of Apprentices will continue in What happens if I haven’t got what is needed employment after finishing their Apprenticeship and to become an Apprentice?

64% will stay in employment with the same company Do not panic – at Buxton & Leek College we now that they completed their Apprenticeship with. offer a range of Traineeships, that can help you progress onto an Apprenticeship.

Is an Apprenticeship right for me?

“ If you want to enter

the world of work whilst continuing with your training and education then an Apprenticeship could be for you.

”

If you want to enter the world of work whilst continuing with your training and education then an Apprenticeship could be for you. As an employee you will work alongside experienced staff to gain job specific and transferable skills whilst earning a wage. You may even be an adult in employment, and want to further your skills and career development with an Adult Apprenticeship.

Are you a business interested in employing an Apprentice?

Thousands of businesses across the UK offer Apprenticeship opportunities because they recognise their effectiveness at increasing productivity and help them to address skills shortages. Our qualified and competent Assessors, who have years of industry experience, will be your What types of Apprenticeships are available? main contact who will conduct an organisational needs analysis to ensure the correct training and A common misconception is that Apprenticeships support is provided. are only available in manual careers, such as plumbing or construction. At Buxton & Leek College Apprenticeships can also help develop we offer Apprenticeships in various subject areas: a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

Apprenticeships are available at Level 2 and Level 3 If you have current employees who would benefit and take between 12–24 months to complete. from an Apprenticeship, our Assessors can provide information, advice and guidance on progression • Accounting opportunities. We’re pleased to have already worked • Business Administration with some of the regions largest organisations, such • Beauty as Belle Engineering, Chatsworth Estate, DHL and • Carpentry & Joinery Allied Healthcare on delivering high quality and • Childcare & Education effective programmes.

• Computing & ICT • Customer Services • Engineering • Hairdressing & Barbering • Hospitality & Catering • Motor Vehicle • Painting & Decorating • Sport Are Apprenticeships better than A Levels, BTECs or other study options?

“ The Government are offering small businesses an employer grant in recognition of offering an Apprenticeship opportunity to 16-24 year olds.

No one choice is better than another, it’s more about trying to find a study option that suits your style of learning. If you prefer to earn whilst you learn, in a real working role, then an Apprenticeship could be for you. If you want to go to University, some The Government are offering small businesses

”

an employer grant in recognition of offering an Apprenticeship opportunity to 16-24 year olds There are some industry bodies that also offer grants. For more information and eligibility criteria please contact the College.

As an employer of an Apprentice you will be expected to provide the following: • Support and development of the learner through hands on training • Release of your learner, when appropriate • Support of the learner in the workplace through supervision and mentoring • A weekly wage of no less than the national minimum wage for an Apprentice • A minimum of 30 hours per week direct employment which includes time spent in training.

Once you’re up and running we advertise your vacancies through the National Apprenticeship Service, our website, local press and College newspaper and we encourage you to advertise

through other media too. We will then screen applicants for their suitability before forwarding their details to you for interview(s). We may also have learners that are ready and waiting for employers like you so we will be able to match them to you straight away.

Where can I go for more information?

Whether you are a future Apprentice or an employer interested in hiring an Apprentice, you can call us on 0800 074 0099 and speak to our specialist Skillsbase staff. You can also apply for Apprenticeships and Traineeships through our online application form at www.blc.ac.uk. There is also an opportunity to visit us at our Campuses and talk to us directly at our next Advice Days: Wednesday 22nd April at Leek and Thursday 23rd April at Buxton, both events 5pm to 8pm – call us to book today.

Page 66. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Recruitment www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

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Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 67.

Page 68. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Motoring www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

This Months Car Reviews

by Syd Taylor

Ford Transit Courier Trend. 1.6 TDCi

With the wings of Mercury to speed you along, this heavensent, all-new little big van from Ford is ahead of its direct rivals.

Compact and versatile it offers 10% more load volume with 2.3 cu.m and a payload of 660kg.

It brings a new level of technology and functionality to the segment with its brilliantly designed, driverfriendly cab, solid construction that has completely consigned

the traditional ‘van rattle’ to history and all the thoughtful functional touches to delight the user. Even the illumination in the load area is brighter than a thousand suns when compared to the dim bulb interiors of some penny pinching rivals. It’s sunshine all the way when loading or unloading one of these.

‘Yes -that’s all very well’ I hear you say ‘But how does it shape up in

practical terms when it comes to load lugging?’

Well I’m pleased to report that its hugely accommodating 1.62 metre load length means it will take the ubiquitous Europallet plus some additional odds and ends.

Fold down the extra cost ‘foldflat’ passenger seat, open the folding mesh load-through bulkhead and loads of up to 2.59 metres can be carried.

‘But how is that squeezed in?’

You’re wondering. Simple. Wideopening rear doors and single or dual sliding side doors make it easy. Six tie-down points and bodyside fixing points mean your load is secure even when looping the loop or dodging the potholes down Billiard Table Boulevard.

It might be a lightweight van but

there’s nothing lightweight about its premium quality feel - so the £13,221 price (excl. VAT) can be justified. Inside the cab it’s big and there’s plenty of space and comfort. It has long been argued that happy workers are the most productive and in the case of commercials, happy drivers produce positive outcomes. Not that you would expect to find leopard skin upholstery and furry dice as standard trim, but you do get clever design elements that permeate its ambience to produce almost without the driver knowing it - an ineffable sense of well-being. Here is where hard facts alone fail to do justice to the symbiotic inter-relationship of cleverly proportioned design elements.

A pleasing tactile experience of fixtures and fittings, an apposite deployment of light and ventilation that soothes the silver flustered soul even without you being aware of it.

It’s jolly enjoyable to drive too. The 1.6 95PS diesel is

a sturdy little humming unit that’s a background melody for todays busy van man. It realistically returns about 60mpg (Ford say 74.3) and puffs out just 100gms of CO2/km - which is less nastiness than bad halitosis - and the ‘snickety snick’ five speed gearbox, good ride and handling, all combine to speed you along in this heaven sent little marvel that will keep you cool when delivering at a hot pace.

Not since Batman’s utility belt has a functional device radiated such charm. It’s a four wheeled harbinger of glowing good fortune.

Ford certainly know how to deliver the goods where good delivery is at a premium. The small businessman - be he butcher, baker or candlestick maker - will make it his business to get better acquainted with the bountiful benefits available to connoisseurs of the Courier.

push and positive delivery of a sort unthinkable not long ago, when given the cars credentials as a practical family machine.

112mph, 53mpg, good ride and handling, light and easy to drive and well put together... and all for £15,995 for the well specified ‘Titanium’ variant.

This is a well integrated car that can do so many things so well.

As a handy family workhorse it brooks no nay sayers - but open its lively potential and it will gallop off down the home straight. In short it’s a safe bet - an important consideration today.

For those who have forgotten that SUV stands for ‘sports utility vehicle’ I thought it only fair that I should explore these wide parameters. Accordingly I took a trip to the supermarket

with an aged aunt as passenger, dropped in at a boot sale with a grumpy cousin and rocketed up to The Lakes with a lively lass.

I’m pleased to report that this trio individually expressed their admiration (For the Eco Sport !). It can pack away a big load, offer passenger comfort and yet take to twisty roads with surefootedness.

Here is a Ford of many colours that will invite black looks from rivals. The Eco Sport undoubtedly elicits justifiable ecomiums galore.

If global motoring has a glittering future, then Ford put a finger on the pulse. Maybe not yet saving the rainforests but at least ensuring that praise comes raining down.

Ford Eco Sport Titanium 1.0 EcoBoost

Until such a time when we can fill our tanks with tap water we have to accept that there’s no such thing as 100% eco-friendly motoring - but we should not lose sight of the fact that to all ends and purposes we are as near as dammit there.

Let’s be honest; todays ultra efficient engines represent astonishing engineering achievements. So much so that the spectre of beard and sandal motoring can be locked away securely in the box. We are the lucky people who can take to the road in style and relish little

sporty routines on the way.

It’s an important day indeed for the motoring fraternity when a venerable company such as Ford enters the supermini SUV stakes.

Replete with an uncompromising design profile, the Eco Sports truly international appeal, in these days of globalisation, throws a golden motoring girdle around the planet. Based on the Fiesta, designed and developed in South America and built in India for the UK market it’s a world-wide offering.

It’s a design that reaches the parts that other small SUVs

cannot reach and it endorses yet again that other manufacturers have many miles yet to cover before they can match Fords peerless expertise in all things motoring. Made from high strength boron steel, rigidity and occupant protection are assured.

Truly a car for all seasons combining passenger and load virtues with high-riding impressiveness and injecting into the mix the irresistible zippiness of a ‘pokey’ little miracle of an engine. And I mean ‘pokey’ as in ‘poke’. The 123bhp 1.0 three cylinder engine gives punch,

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 69.

Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0 TDI 184PS DSG

Critical readers have sometimes rather wickedly cast aspersions on the veracity of my roadtests suggesting that the cars I drive can’t all be ‘that good’. To which I reply ‘Sir or Madam, Doubting Thomas or Thomasina both - let me open your eyes to the truth of the matter’.

We are in a golden age of motoring. We have never had cars so good. Modern cars are more reliable, more economical, more comfortable, assuredly one hundred times safer, better performing and - dare I say better looking than ever before.

And right on cue to prove my point, may I introduce you to the Skoda vRS diesel: a car of today designed to delight throughout

everyday of ownership. A superlooking sleek machine of excellent performance, poise, and verve.

It sits on the road like a springheeled pentathlete ready to pounce. A glance inside reveals an interior as temptingly comfortable as a pullman carriage while the understated dynamism of the overall concept bespeaks purposefulness. High quality materials, class leading space for occupants and a large hatch boot opening reveals more storage room than in my grandmother’s attic. And..there’s every electronic adjunct to safety which Skoda rightly term Smart Protection.

Let me give it to you straight.

This 184PS turbo diesel is a splendid engine. Paired with

the remarkable 6 speed DSG automatic gearbox that can be electronically programmed, at the push of a button, for parsimony or for rocketship mode when you feel the need for speed - it’s a wonderful combination.

Smooth, quiet and punchy, the vRS would make a real value alternative to the Typhoon if there are further defence cuts.

A squadron of these would soon see-off those Russian Bears, I can tell you!

It’s as good as you like: fun, fun, fun all the way and yet as safe as houses - and as enduring as a Neolithic monument (My local taxi firm have several 400,000mile Octavias) and it’s as dependable as an oil sheikhs bank balance.

Peugeot 108 Allure 1.2 3dr

Like Mole from Wind In The Willows I was brushing away the winter cobwebs only to be overcome by an urge for freedom.

‘Hang Spring cleaning’ I said. ‘I need to go a roamin’.’

As luck would have it at that very moment a shaft of March sunlight reflected off something new and shiny on my drive. My test car was here.

Discarding my duster with the zest of the newly liberated I hastened to the door and fell in love at once. Call it madness but the little Peugeot that winked at me perkily had all the ‘Je ne sais quoi’ of a Parisienne Spring - redolent of ‘Left Bank cafe’ and ‘right-on motoring’ of a fun kind.

Here was a supermini with a superabundance of everything you could wish for when tackling the dusty highways and byways of our Sceptred Isle. If there is such a thing as stress free motoring I felt certain that my lucky stars had delivered it straight to my door.

You’ve got to hand it to the

French - they know how to put together a really stylish package.

Personalisation is a key element of the 108’s appeal with a huge range of colours, ambiences, trims and themes. This Peugeot looked as mouthwatering as a tasty aperitif with a promise of things to come.

Already invigorated by its promising contours I jumped in and before you could say ‘Alexander Dumas’ I was buzzing down the road like a musketeer on a mission. It would be a cardinal sin to suppose that I broke any motoring regulations. Not even the shoots of Spring would have me shooting traffic lights - but I can assure you that the seductive road manners, sensible controls and perfect poise of this supermini had me seduced.

Inside there’s room for four plus a boot that’s now bigger than in the previous 107. Seat quality, comfort and support are at ‘big car’ levels and the whole interior of the £11,095 five door Allure

offers luxury. There’s a touch screen infotainment system with reversing camera as well as a multi-function steering wheel. Needless to say there are plenty of safety features.

It’s a wishing well of motoring tick lists come true. Looks nice? Tick. Comfortable?

Tick. Economical at a claimed 65.7 mpg? Well nearly ‘tick’.

(Expect around 50 mpg.), Roadholding, ride and handling? Tick. Performance?

Tick. The 1.2, 82bhp three cylinder petrol engine is a gem that will take you to about 105/110mph. Seldom have I come across such a welcoming all-round little package of promise that’s more than adequate for the Springtime tides in mans affairs.

In fact, ‘affair’ is the key word here, for nothing more describes ones association with the 108.

It’s an affair of the heart thanks to innumerable personalisation options.

In no time at all as I motored along I felt a yearning for leafy boulevards and twisty Provencal tracks - and here I was in Walsall. In Walsall, indeed, but as enraptured as our friend Mole on the river: so jolly in spirits that even the heaviest traffic compounded with the usual roadworks, failed to get my whiskers twitching in a rat-like manner.In a 108, so called rat runs become fun, fun, fun! I have but one criticism. This car does not deliver croissants to your door. Everything else it does: and very nicely too.

Speaking of mineral wealth it won’t set you back a packet at the pumps. When was the last time you sat behind the wheel of a 145mph express that could return a realistic 50mpg? Is that the sound of silence I hear?

Amazed? Well you jolly well ought to be.

You settle into that most comfortable and enticingly evocative cabin where everything fits perfectly. There’s no geeky nonsense, no bizarre novelties just a commonness disposition of controls and instrumentation all within easy reach of a perfect driving position.

Start up and there’s just enough noise to promote the tiniest flutter of anticipation - yet nothing too

brash: nothing to disturb the pleasurable sense of refinement.

Before you know it you’re away.

Remember, you’re not reading the words of an MP declaring an interest. You’re reading the comments of Mister Impartial himself.

But on the road with the vRS who can remain impartial for long?

Such responsive road manners, such controllable power and torque, such a business-like sense of ‘doing the business’.

And the best news is that nothing in its class (representing, as it does, one of the best) offers such good value at £25,410. I can’t see the point in paying more because you will struggle to get a better buy than this Skoda.

As I said at the beginning, we live in a ‘golden age of motoring’ - and yet you’ll often hear the ignorant complain that all cars now look the same and lack character.

That this is patently not true was

brought home to me as I pulled up at the kerbside (where by some miracle of science double yellow lines were absent) to post a letter - a letter of thanks to Mr. Skoda for delivering me a new Octavia vRS An admiring voice said “Mister.

That’s a nice car”.

“Surely” I responded, “It’s a car like any other”.

“No Mate” He insisted. “It’s better than many I’ve seen - and I’ve seen a few, I can tell you”.

Curious, I prompted “In what way did it attract your notice?’”

He thought for a moment, scratching his head. “Dunno” He pondered, adding “Every which way I should think so”.

So you see: cars are not all the same. An Octavia radiates in ways not yet fully understood, a singularity of purpose that is the distinguishing mark of the good automobile.

Page 70. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 71.

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Page 72. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Nylacast, Increasing performance and efficiency within the construction industry: UK based engineering firm Nylacast are renowned globally for their innovative plastic solutions. The word “Plastic” can sometimes be a vague term, with many perceiving it as an inferior, low grade material generally used for large volume production of simple everyday items from toys to carrier bags.

However, when considering the extreme and arduous environments making up the nature of the construction industry it is clear to see how Nylacast polymers such as Nylube and Oilon are widely utilised within construction equipment used across the globe.

Holding extensive industry experience, Nylacast work closely with designers, engineers and manufacturers of construction equipment in order to utilise polymer technology to the fullest. Whether it’s a backhoe loader, a mobile crane, tele-handler,

articulated dump truck or a mini excavator, critical components and wear parts created by Nylacast create value through increasing the efficiency and performance of the equipment, coupled with greatly reducing machine downtime and maintenance needs.

Operating for over four decades, Nylacast utilise the knowledge and experience of both their skilled industry engineers and in house chemists to custom formulate and create unique material grades for specific components and applications.

The engineering firm are recognised as a value adding supplier for a wide range of customers and clients. This stems from a concentrated focus on continuous development coupled with strong dedication to delivering high levels of quality, service and innovation.

Whether the function of a component is to increase running and performance of the equipment, or to simply eliminate maintenance needs, or reduce weight to meet industry regulations, Nylacast materials are lightweight, corrosion and chemical resistant, self lubricating, wear and abrasion resistant with a low coefficient friction of just 0.08, often recognised as the perfect solution for the tough environments faced within the Construction industry.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 73.

Holidays Page 74. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

Villa Mimosa 3 Bedroom Villa With Private Pool And Views Over e Mountains & Akamas Coast.

Mimosa is a great value 3 bedroom villa in a fantastic location with breathtaking views. e house is in an elevated position on the winding road from Polis to the mountain village of Lysos and close to the villages of Steni and Peristerona. e views over the Evruoto Dam are outstanding and in the other direction there are views over the olive and citrus groves to the Akamas coastline and the Blue Lagoon.

Almost everyone looks forward to going on holiday…whether it is a quick weekend break to a couple of weeks or more in some foreign destination, holidays are a time to relax and enjoy yourself.

However the lead up to the annual vacation can be stressful as there is a lot you will need to remember to get right. In fact the better prepared you are in the months and weeks leading up to your getaway, the more enjoyable it will be.

There can be few things worse than arriving at the airport only to discover that you don’t have the correct visa, that your passport has expired or that you have left your ticket receipts on the kitchen table.

and it can totally ruin their holidays…so ensure that it does not happen to you.

Spend time to ensure that all your documentation is in order, that you have enough travel money, that you know what clothes you need for your destination and that your holiday insurance is up to date.

e house is in the mountain village of Peristerona, which is famous for maintaining the beauty and traditions of Cyprus.e soft, undulating hills are covered in vines, olive trees, wild owers and herbs. We highly recommended taking the old road from Peristerona to Lysos village and then down to Pelathousa and on to Polis -the drive is absolutely beautiful.

• Sleeps: 6 • Bedrooms: 3 • Bathroom: 2 • Property type: house • Minimum Stay: 7 nights For more information contact owner, Carrie King on (UK)+44 02032868330 or visit us on www.cyprusescapes.villas

If you are going to exotic locations then you may need to get the appropriate vaccinations and no matter where you go then you may have to make arrangements for your pets to be looked after or for a neighbour to keep an eye on your home while you are away.

Plan now to ensure your holiday is one that is remembered for all the right reasons.

Sadly things like this happen to people every year

Villa Georgina Fantastic 3 bed / 2 bath detached villa with private garden and large pool.

Located in the Lovely Cypriot Village of Pissouri which is near to a Blue Flag Beach and several Golf Courses.

Enjoy the luxury and privacy of a 3 bed / 2 bath detached villa with a 10m x 5m swimming pool set in a lovely private garden. Furnished in a comfortable modern style, the Villa has a range of facilities including Air Conditioning, Satellite TV including Sports and Movies, Wi-Fi internet access, Sony PS3, DVD player, and music system. e kitchen is fully equipped with a fridge-freezer, full size fan oven, gas hob, dishwasher, washing machine & microwave. ere are sea views from most rooms including the master bedroom which has an en-suite shower room and balcony. e second double bedroom has a large terraced balcony and all 3 bedrooms have ample tted wardrobes, air conditioning and ceiling fans. Along with the bedrooms there is also a cot, high chair and stroller for babies and younger children.ere is also a downstairs toilet / cloakroom for your convenience. e blue ag beach at Pissouri Bay is only a short drive away or there is a local bus service which passes the Villa during the peak season.

Our local management team are on hand to offer help and advice during your stay.

• Sleeps: 6 • Bedrooms: 3 • Bathrooms: 2 • Half Baths: 1 For any enquiries please contact Alan on 07962 191425 or by email at villa.georgina@btinternet.com

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 75.

Barkham Arms Caravan Park A new concept caravan park and pub has opened its doors in sunny Skegness. The Barkham Arms Caravan Park is an innovative opening that sees the perfect marriage of a fully functional caravan park with a bustling pub serving light lunches and succulent Sunday roasts. Run by dynamic duo Andy and Kelly Smith, the caravan park is the ideal haven for holidaying tourists keen to explore the quaint seaside town of Skegness.

With a pocket-friendly £17 per pitch including electricity, campers and caravanners can enjoy a mini break and rest in comfortable caravans or homely tents.

The caravans overlook an expansive pond, where keen fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at landing a catch of the day. When dusk sets, the view over the pond of glorious sunsets in the summer is truly breathtaking.

cooked, with fresh local produce being the order of the day. From luscious lasagne, to juicy sausages with creamy mash, this is wholesome, hearty food at its best.

Great for tourists and locals alike, The Barkham Arms is the place to be. Connect with nature and the great outdoors by pitching up a tent and partake in mouth-watering food a stone’s throw away in the inviting pub.

Celebrate Easter in style at The Barkham Arms, where a host of activities will take place on 5th April, Easter Sunday. There will be face painting, an Easter egg hunt, a bouncy castle and other children’s entertainment free of charge. Be sure of a warm welcome at The Barkham Arms Caravan Park and Pub.

What are you waiting for? Call 01754 882 451 The pub adjacent to the caravan park serves now to make a booking. a range of delicious dishes throughout the day.

Open seven days a week, all meals are home- See advert on Page 67 for details.

Springs Holiday Estates Springs Holiday Estates is the UK’s leading holiday destination in Sutton-on-Sea. With a choice of four very different but equally stunning caravan parks to visit, holiday-makers are spoilt for choice. If you like exquisite fauna, then Sutton Springs Holiday Park is highly recommended, where colourful blooms light up the garden and your vacation. If idyllic beaches are more your thing, then choose Anderby Springs Holiday Park which has an estate within a stone’s throw of miles of soft golden sand.

For fishing enthusiasts there is Lakeside Springs Holiday Park which houses an impressive seven acre fishing lake, whilst Trusthorpe Springs Holiday Park set in the beautiful grounds of Trusthorpe

Hall, accommodates an outdoor heated swimming pool for your delectation.

Spacious and beautifully furnished caravans are available for sale and to let, whilst a seven day Reception ensures holiday-makers receive the best customer service at all times. Each rental caravan is fully equipped with TV, microwave and kitchen utensils. If you really want a break from the kitchen, you can dine at either The Creek Tavern or Cartwheel Club serving delicious breakfasts and succulent Sunday carveries.

Stop dreaming of that summer holiday and get it booked by calling Springs Holiday Estates now on 01507 441 333.

www.springsholidayestates.co.uk Email: suuonsprings@btconnect.com

We have 4 beauuful caravan holiday parks which offer a wide variety of aaraccons; set on the east coast of Lincolnshire just a short distance away from the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds: Suuon Springs – with its quarter mile of beach frontage along the promenade.

Trusthorpe Springs – with a heated swimming pool the Park is set around the grounds of Trusthorpe Hall. Tourers are welcome and leeng vans are available.

Lakeside Springs – with its well stocked fishing lake. Tourers and tents are welcome and leeng vans are available.

Anderby Springs – is a quite “get-away from it all” locaaon that’s just a short stroll from the beach.

Three of our Parks have licensed Clubhouses which provide Th entertainment and a great atmosphere to relax with friends; new and old.

We offer an extended season in some of our Parks and sell superb quality new and part new holiday homes sited on a vacant pitch of your choice Main Office, Suuon Springs, Suuon Rd, Mablethorpe, Lincs, LN12 2PZ Tel: 01507 441333

Page 76. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Golf Holidays www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

La Torre Golf Resort

Mar Menor Golf Resort

La Torre Golf Resort is a luxury development of 5 star properties comprising of apartments, townhouses and villas surrounding an 18 hole Nicklaus designed golf course.

La Torre Golf Resort is a jewel in the centre of Murcia and is located only a few kilometres from the best beaches of the Mar Menor.

The course is set within a landscape containing over five hectares of elaborately sculpted bunkers which help to separate the holes, create strategic interest, and create a very dramatic setting Three large lakes come into play on six holes, and the golf course is complemented with lush landscaping, further enhancing both the golf experience as well as the extended views from the surrounding development.

The shorter length of La Torre Golf makes the golf course more playable for the average to higherhandicap players who will certainly appreciate the four sets of tees, wide fairways, and beautiful setting.

The golf course in Mar Menor Village Golf is located in the province of Murcia, near the town of Torre Pacheco.

The course surface is approximately 59 hectares and has a maximum length of 6,153 meters for quite a demanding par 72. The green area or playing area is 45 hectares; the rest of the areas are gardens with a variety of indigenous plants of this area.

David Thomas designed the first nine holes of Mar Menor Village Golf, par 37 of 3,275 meters as its greatest distance.

The second nine holes that were designed by Nicklaus Design are par 35 of 2,878 m, as its greatest distance, it has wide courses and wide roughs that allow big strokes. The spectacular lake around holes 13,14 and 15 deserves special mention, making the water the greatest obstacle to be overcome. The rest of the holes are protected by strategic bunkers.

Boavista Golf Course, Lagos, Algarve The course at Boavista Golf Resort opened in January 2002 and quickly became established as one of the Western Algarve’s premier courses. This impressive 18 hole championship course offers exceptional playing conditions and was designed by Howard Swan a renowned UK based architect.

Boavista offers two distinct parts – the Resort Section (the 1st to the 3rd and the 13th to the 18th) and the Country Section (the 4th to the 12th) – which provide a variety of attractive and interesting holes.

From the first tee shot to the last putt, the course offers an enjoyable range of very individual golf

holes which offer varying challenges for all levels of golfer. The par 3’s are particularly strong and no golfer who has played over the ravine at the 194 metre 6th will ever forget the experience.

From holes 13 to 17, water features, which form part of the irrigation system, have been added and they provide a safe haven for the wildfowl which now abounds in the area.

Breathtaking views, spectacular scenery and the crystal clear Atlantic Ocean, which is visible from most holes, all combine to make this course a delight for the golfer and visitor alike.

Luxury Ground Floor Apartment in Boavista Golf Resort, Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

A recent build luxury design two bedroom apartment on the development, benefiting from the significant design improvements and increased size over the older apartment designs on the resort. The double aspect patio and large corner plot garden area of this apartment is one of the best appointed on the resort, with all day sun from its south-east to south-west facing position. Views across the Boavista golf course can be enjoyed from both the front (14th-16th holes) and rear of the property (3rd hole), including views of the Monchique Mountains and the Lagos Bay. The large shared heated outdoor swimming pool & children's paddling pool is very close by, which guests have full access to. Guests at this property also benefit from full membership of the Boavista Fitness & Spa, which in addition has a large indoor heated pool. For Golfers, discounted rates for golf on the Boavista course are provided for our Guests. This property also boasts its own large integral garage for car parking, with a remote electrically operated door.

• Sleeps: 4 (2 Bedrooms) • Bathrooms/Toilets: 2 • Golf • Shared Outdoor & Indoor Pools with heating • Air conditioning

For further information please contact Steve on (UK) +44 7836531594 or visit us on Owners Direct Property Reference; P12313

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 77.

Villa in Opio, Alpes Maritimes, Provence-Alpes-Cote D’Azur, France

•

Sleeps 7 (2 ensuite doubles 1 twin, 1 single) • Pool • Internet Access • Golf • SKY TV

If it is peace and quiet you are seeking, beneath cobalt Provençal skies, accompanied by birdsong and the distant bray of a donkey across the valley, then this is the villa for you.

Safely within a gated, wooded hillside Domaine with tennis court, cou this is very much a comfortable family home from home. It offers easy living, Wi-Fi, Sky TV, a video & dvd library and a well equipped new kitchen. The master bedroom with balcony and en suite bathroom have recently been converted to create a

tranquil room with a view at the top of the villa. The pool and beautiful gardens also offer complete privacy and a welcome relief from the strains and stresses of everyday life.Yet within short driving distance cloistered square of 14th is the cloiste Century Valbonne, with its buzzing cafes, restaurants and popular Friday morning market. There are two golf courses within 5 minutes drive and others in easy reach.

For further information please visit us on Owners Direct; Property Reference - FR22093

Page 78. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Calanova Sea Golf, La Cala De Mijas Costa del Sol

Calanova Sea Golf, La Cala De Mijas, Costa del Sol If you are looking for a holiday apartment close to the beach, with sea views and no less than 14 nearby golf courses in Spain’s Costa del Sol then this superb two bedroomed penthouse apartment is ideal.

It is nestled on a hill between Fuengirola and Marbella, just 30 mins from Malaga Airport and sleeps six people in two bedrooms.

The apartment’s large private sun terrace directly overlooks the 18th hole at the nearby Par 72 Calanova Golf Course, is just minutes away from the first tee and enjoys the most fabulous views of the Mediterranean.

There is a choice of five pools in the complex, secure underground parking and a lift. The apartment itself is furnished to a high standard and is serviced.

Towels and bedding are all provided and there is central air conditioning / heating, a large flat screen TV, a second TV with DVD, small DVD library and games available. The apartment also has unlimited wifi and TV with Chromecast device.

Outside the terrace is just superb! It is large and sun drenched and furnished to a high standard with

hotel quality furniture including a separate seating/ lounging with large coffee table area for 8/10, two full length sun loungers, a glass covered top quality dining table and 6 chairs. Gas BBQ available.

The beach and popular little town of La Cala de Mijas with its bustling bars and wide choice of restaurants are literally just a five minute drive away.

Marbella and the ever fashionable Puerto Banus is approximately 20 minutes drive away. For the more adventurous, horse riding, sun buggying, art museums, the Palace of Alhambra, Gibraltar, Fuengirola BioParc, Donkey Sanctuary and gorgeous Andalucian historic villages are not far away.

All this makes the apartment ideal for golfers, families, lovers, friends, adventurers and explorers.

As a special offer for our readers just quote “Derbyshire Guardian” when you make a booking and you can take 10% off all 2015 bookings.

Contact Lynne via email to Lynncw277@gmail. com or text your enquiry to 07966 372727

Rio Real Golf Course

This superb 2 bedroomed penthouse is nestled on a hill between Fuengirola and Marbella. It looks directly over Calanova Golf course and the Mediterranean, and is only half an hour from Malaga airport. The apartment itself is furnished to a high standard and is serviced. There is central airconditioning / heating, a large flat screen TV with a chromecast device to stream sports. All this makes the apartment ideal for golfers (with access to 14 different courses nearby), families, lovers, friends, adventurers and explorers.

Luxury Penthouse With Golf Course And Sea Views, Lift, Secure Parking, A Choice Of 5 Pools And Wifi A Stones Throw From The First Golf Course, 5 Minutes To The Beach, Restaurants And Bars Of La Cala Sleeps 6 (2 Bedrooms) For details and bookings please visit: www.ownersdirect.co.uk property ref: S26890

The par 72 Rio Real golf course is located in the most prestigious area of Marbella and was designed by the legendary Javier Arana who is considered to be the best Spanish designer of all time.

Located just five minutes from the city centre, the course runs alongside the Rio Real River which forms an integral part of the course, right up until it reaches the Mediterranean Sea. With 18 holes and more than 6,000 metres in length, the Royal Spanish Golf Federation considers it to be a prestigious golf course and one of the best in Spain, both for its layout and its unique beauty.

Opened in 1965, this is the oldest course in the Marbella area and this classic course still retains so much of its original charm.

One of the more memorable holes on the card doglegs left from the background sound of the traffic on the tee to the crashing of waves on the seafront, with the green located right on the coastline.

Penthouse Apartment in Incosol Park Suites off Rio Real, Marbella, Costa del Sol Penthouse Apartment with own Private Pool, Sea Views and mountain views Exclusive Penthouse in Gated Community 10 Minutes Walk To e Beach Property Description: Luxury penthouse apartment with wrap around terraces. Own private plunge pool. 3 double bedrooms all with large en-suite bathrooms. Fully tted kitchen. Large drawing room, TV room, hall and dining hall. Italian marble throughout. Use of community pool.

Private underground parking, Penthouse lift access. Elegantly furnished. Situated within easy reach of the Rio Real Golf Course, Golden Mile Beach and Marbella.

Bedrooms: Bedroom 1 - with super king size double bed.

Bedroom 2 accessed through bedroom 1 or through own terrace door with King size double bed. Bedroom 3 King size double bed with own terrace.

Bathrooms: En-suite bathroom to bedroom 1 with spa bath, wc, double wash basins and separate power shower. En-suite bathroom to bedroom 2, separate power shower, wc and marble wash basin. En-suite bathroom to bedroom 3 with bath, W.C. separate power shower.

Living Rooms: Elegant drawing room with double doors leading to terrace. 3 sofas, tv with combi video and dvd , marble replace. Separate sitting room with tv and dvd and 2 sets of doors leading to terrace. Dining hall sits 6. Entrance hall with sofa.

Kitchen: Electric cooker and hob, microwave, fridge freezer, washing machine and dishwasher and numerous electrical gadgets.

• Sleeps 6 (3 Bedrooms) • Bathrooms/Toilets: 4 • Pool • Air conditioning • Golf

Email us to book today on: janeyhowell@gmail.com Or visit us at Owners Direct Property Ref: S15800

Another fine long par four awaits at the 8th, a wonderful hole that sets out from an elevated tee position and ends with a downhill approach to a small green that sits on top of a small promontory.

The course has a wide variety of different species of trees: Pine, Palm, Casuarinas, Olive, Cypress, etc. which make it the ideal place to play golf, both on foot and in golf carts.

The location of this course is really impressive indeed. It is built on terrain which slopes gently down to the sea, so many of the holes provide magnificent views of the Mediterranean.

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, one can play all year around, with seafront holes and spectacular views.

The course is suitable for every player, thanks to its more elevated holes, which make them even more appealing as they require the use of various clubs.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 79.

Mobile Home in Benodet Near Quimper, Brittany, Fran ce Superb 4* Yelloh Village Site with all Facilities, near Beaches, Sleeps 6 (3 Bedrooms)

Your mobile home, 2 or 3 bedroom, is situated in a quiet location on the campsite away from (but not too far from) the camp facilities. You will not be disturbed. A terraced area for outside dining and a large grassy area for play, BBQ (all equipment provided including patio table and chairs), sunloungers and ample room to park your vehicle.

Camp facilities include an outdoor pool with slides, an excellent indoor water complex. Restaurant and

bar with entertainment. An outdoor adventure area (L 窶連crobat), horse riding, cycle hire, shop, take away pizza shop. The large white sand beach is just 10 mins walk, where you will find eating places and gift shops in abundance. It is also ideally located to take advantage of a superb road system so you can see all the magical places that makes Brittany so popular.

For information and bookings please visit: www.jantomholidays.com

Page 80. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Townhouse in Gassin Golf & Country Club, Near St Tropez, Provence-Alpes-Cote DAzur, France

This pretty well-equiped sight-seeing, dining, markets and end-of-terrace house with cultural events.The exclusive lovely south facing garden and 18-hole golf course (membership terraces has the unique is limited to home owners/rental advantage of a tranquil location tenants and their guests) is a with stunning views, access to delight. Spread over 400 hectares superb, uncrowded gary the super of typical provencal countryside pr player 18-hole golf course, with umbrella pines, vineyards swimming pool, tennis courts and views of the mediterranean and fitness centre mixed with all around it, the course is the vibrancy of st tropez's bars, refreshingly uncrowded and restaurants, clubs and beaches offers that perfect combination of at a stone's throw. With ste challenging golf, stunning views, maxime, port grimaud and the maxim a beautifully tended course and ancient hilltop villages of gassin an elegant clubhouse with and ramatuelle close by there excellent restaurant. are endless opportunities for • Sleeps: 8 • Bedrooms: 4 • Bathrooms: 5 • Pool • Air Con • Internet Access For more information or to book call 01732 458 801 or visit us on Owners Direct - Property reference; FR11392

Villa in Aphrodite Hills, Kouklia, Paphos, Cyprus

Completed in 2008, this stunning luxury villa has all you need for a perfect family holiday. With its central location you are no more than 5 minutes walk from the fantastic facilities that the Aphrodite Hills Spa and Golf Resort has to offer. The village centre sports restaurants to suit all tastes, from traditional pub grub through to the fine dining of international cuisine. Whether you prefer an active break playing the world renowned golf course or polishing up on your tennis at the fantastically appointed tennis academy or prefer the sanctuary of a luxury spa, Aphrodite Hills caters for all of your holiday needs. Kids of all ages won't be disappointed as there are plenty of clubs and activities laid on for them. Secluded beaches and pretty villages are a short drive away for those who want to explore further. The villa has a lovely private pool and sun terrace (with gas barbecue) along with a stunning roof terrace giving panoramic views of the sea and surrounding areas.

Owners Direct Property Ref: CY3561 Contact Name: Mrs Joanne Hughes • Property type: Villa • Sleeps: 4 (2 bedrooms) • Bathrooms/Toilets: 2 • Pool with heating • Air conditioning • Internet access • Golf (UK) 01245492157 Alternate Contact Details: (UK) 07973151592

Our apartment is situated near Esentepe and enjoys superb mountain views on 2 sides. It is on a small and quiet development and comes with a feeling of spaciousness because of this.

The site benefits from a large, f well maintained swimming pool and one can spend all day just lazing around the pool and relaxing on the many loungers available. The location is exceptionally quiet and provides easy access to ma many mountain walks although in the heat of the North Cyprus summer one would

probably prefer to stay around the pool. The apartment is about 5 miles from the new Korinium Golf Club and is also near to the Aligadi beach with its world famous turtle project. The town of Kyrenia is about 20 miles away and offers sailing, scuba diving, many restaurants etc.

The area is a cultural mecca especially if you are interested in the Crusades, Roman history or old castles. Spring brings a wonderful flower display and organised walks are available.

Great for a chill out holiday.

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Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 81.

Villa in Torre Pacheco, Mar Menor Golf Resort, Murcia, Spain

Spacious South Facing 2 Bedroom Villa Bordering Golf Course On The Mar • Property type: Villa Menor Golf Resort, 5kms From Los Alcazares With Sandy Beaches, And • Sleeps: 4 (2 bedrooms) Safe Bathing • Sleeps 4 (2 Bedrooms) • Bathrooms/Toilets:2 • Pool The Mar Menor Golf Resort is a The living room has dining and beautifully landscaped gated lounge areas and air conditioning. • Air conditioning • Internet access community, and this villa is in a Ceiling fans in every room keep • Golf quiet, south facing location, the villa cool in summer. Central Golf bordering the 10th fairway of the heating is available for chillier challenging 18 hole golf course. The times of year. Patio doors lead to situa The villa is situated on the 5* resort has communal swimming a spacious patio area with sliding Mar Menor Golf course, and pools, ttwo of which are 5 minutes doo onto a tiled terrace, glass doors within easy driving distance walk from the villa. Within the with a retractable awning. The of at least 15 top class complex are bars, restaurants, a glazed patio has a dining table courses. Good websites to gym, health spa and supermarket. and chairs and a large sofa. Sun visit are Costa Calida Golf Paddle tennis courts and children’s loungers, table and chairs and a Tours and IRM Golf. play areas are within 5 mins of the BBQ are also provided on the tiled Di Distances villa. The villa has 2 double rooms terrace.

The nearest village is Torre one of which which can be either Pacheco, about 2kms double or twin bedded, with ample distant. Los Alcazares is wardrobe space. There are 2 3kms away Cabo di Palos is bathrooms and a well equipped about 30 kms. Cartagena is kitchen.

25kms distant Murcia is approx 50kms.

For more information or to book with visit us on Owners Direct Property Ref: S24549

Page 82. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Russell Grants Monthly Horoscopes APRIL 2015

ARIES March 21st - April 20th Attention and acclaim will come your way in early April. This is a great time to go on auditions, first dates and job interviews. Easter will be a time of true rebirth for you. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the end of a difficult relationship phase. It will be much easier to collaborate with a business or romantic partner as a result. A short trip for pleasure will lift your spirits during the middle of the month. Be ready to accept an unusual offer near the 18th, when the New Moon invites you to take a bold, but calculated risk. You might have to spend a little more money than you would like, but this is a worthwhile expense. Money from a scholarship or grant will become available as April turns into May. Take this opportunity to expand your horizons. This is a great time to learn a craft, like landscaping, making furniture, or designing clothes.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st You’ll see impressive results from a health regime on the 4th, when a Lunar Eclipse showcases your hard work. Resist the urge to get drawn into an argument about religion or politics around the Easter holiday.

Old grudges have no place during a season of rebirth. Money for luxuries will be more readily available during the first half of the month. Take this opportunity to splurge on a new computer, collectable book, or fun trip. The New Moon on the 18th will inspire a vivid dream. Keep pencil and paper near your bed at this time, as you need to remember this powerful message. A friend will ask you for a loan during the second half of April. Be ready to refuse. You can’t afford to throw your resources away on someone who doesn’t understand the meaning of hard work. It’s time to put an end to this dysfunctional relationship

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st You’ll acquire some valuable information or skills at the start of April. Use this knowledge to further your career. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the successful culmination of a creative or romantic endeavour.

This will be a time of profound emotional fulfilment. Go ahead and throw a party on Easter weekend.

Friends will be eager to celebrate your good news. Don’t buy into any conspiracy theories near the 8th; they’ll just stop you taking advantage of a golden opportunity. Keep your activities under wraps towards mid-month. The last thing you need is to get unsolicited advice about an important project. The New Moon on the 18th puts you in contact with some dynamic pioneers. Being in their presence will make you more innovative. A fantastic idea for conserving resources will occur as April comes to a close. This concept can be spun off into a profitable business or product.

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd The beginning of April is perfect for selling the fruits of your labour. Creative ventures will be particularly lucrative. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the successful end of a property deal. This is a great time to sell a piece of land or break a lease. Easter could get stressful, thanks to tension between you and your partner. Try to share the spotlight with your amour or resentment will set in. You will feel rather reclusive in mid-April. Give yourself a little extra time to rest and relax before work really picks up. The New Moon on the 18th will attract an exciting career opportunity. If you’ve ever wanted to launch your own business, this is the best time of the entire year to do so. An executive will entrust you with a secret at the end of the month. Mum’s the word.

LEO July 24th - August 23rd Your star power opens doors for you, both personally and professionally, at the beginning of April. The Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the successful end of an intellectual endeavour. You could finish a course or get a letter of recommendation around this fateful day. Easter could take a stressful turn due to a nagging health problem. The sooner you get treated for this condition, the happier you will be. It will be much easier to pursue your dreams aroung the middle of the month, when obstacles that once blocked your path vanish into thin air. The New Moon on the 18th will inspire you to go on a glamorous holiday.

Take advantage of last minute discounts on hotel rooms and plane fares. Your career gets a big boost as April turns to May. Be ready to apply for a promotion or high powered position. The fringe benefits of this job will be significant.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Someone will seek your professional opinion in early April. Be sure to charge for these services. This could be the beginning of a lucrative side business for you. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the successful end of a moneymaking venture. You’ll be able to put your earnings towards a holiday home or addition to a cherished collection. Easter could get rather tense, thanks to a family argument over money. You’ll have to demand your fair share of an inheritance or family business. An interest in law, publishing, or education will prompt you to take a class at mid-month. The New Moon on the 18th brings a windfall in the form of a royalty check or insurance settlement. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to collaborate on a book as April turns to May. This project will bring you plenty of intellectual stimulation. It will also allow you to make a name in your desired field.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd The opening days of April prompt someone special to make a declaration of love. This is an opportune time to get engaged or married. Alternatively, you might decide to move in with your amour, or launch a business with an entrepreneur. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th brings a satisfying conclusion to a contract.

This agreement has enriched you, both personally and professionally. Easter could be tense, thanks to an argument between your relatives and best friend. It may be best to keep the two parties separate. The chance to write a book or study abroad will arrive in mid-April. Prepare to expand your horizons. The New Moon on the 18th is perfect for entering into a business agreement or signing legal papers. Resist the urge to rush a physical relationship in the closing days of April. Patience and understanding will help your partner overcome some childhood taboos.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd The Lunar Eclipse on the 4th brings a satisfying end to a bureaucratic matter. Now you have official papers, you will be able to move forward with career plans. Easter could be stressful, due to a loud argument between relatives. Try to keep out of this ridiculous battle. You may have to bring an impractical colleague down to Earth on the 8th; there simply isn’t enough money to carry out their ideas. A writing project will have to be revised in mid-April. Don’t be discouraged. The corrections you make will be a tremendous improvement. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for launching a health regime. Taking an unusual fitness class will be a lot more fun than you expected. Let your best friend or partner talk you into making a personal transformation as April turns to May.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st Early April will prove a fulfilling time for you, when you will gain all sorts of favourable attention for a creative endeavour. The Lunar Eclipse on the 4th brings the successful culmination of a group project.

Your work on this job will lead to bigger and better assignments. Easter takes a tense turn thanks to an argument over money. Someone has been spending far too much cash on luxuries. The opportunity to study with a talented teacher arrives on the 6th. Sign up for this class before all the spaces are taken. It becomes much easier to get the funding you need for academics in mid-April. The New Moon on the 18th is ideal for launching an art project. If you’re in the market for love, you’ll meet someone who makes your pulse pound. The attraction will be instantaneous. Avoid going to extremes as April turns to May. Practice moderation in all things.

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th You’ll find a receptive audience for your ideas at the beginning of April. This is a great time to work on behalf of a charitable organisation. Donating your energy to a worthy cause will put personal problems in their proper perspective. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th marks the satisfying conclusion of a career matter.

It looks as if you’ll be awarded a cash prize, dividend, or expensive holiday as thanks for your hard work.

Easter could be stressful, due to a stubborn relative who challenges everything you say. Stay as far away from this trouble maker as possible. The New Moon on the 18th is perfect for adding a member to your household. Make room for a quirky relative or roommate. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to write a book or teach a class in the closing days of April. There is a considerable market for your expertise.

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Relationships take on a cosy, comfortable aspect at the beginning of April. It’s good to know you are loved and appreciated. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th finds you graduating, publishing some written work, or finishing up a legal matter. The result will be much better than expected. Easter could be stressful, due to a friend’s unreasonable demands on your time. The New Moon on the 18th affords a great opportunity for networking. Be sure to attend a professional conference or party near this date. Your family will be a wonderful source of support during the second half of April, offering to run errands and even financial assistance if you are in a position to help. A generous relative may even offer to guarantee a small loan for you. You’ll be very flirtatious in the final days of April, thanks to an attractive newcomer to your social circle. The two of you have similar tastes and dislikes, which makes for hilarious conversation.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th The first days of April are ideal for salary negotiations. A Lunar Eclipse on the 4th allows you to pay off a big bill, which comes as a relief. Easter may be tense, due to an unpaid loan between you and a friend. If you’ve been looking for work, you’ll get promising responses on or around the 8th. Mid-April is ideal for taking a class. It will take some time to master new material, but with a little patience and persistence, you will acquire expert knowledge. The New Moon on the 18th brings an unexpected source of income. It will be much easier to afford luxuries after accepting this job. Family members may not understand your growing interest in a particular subject. Don’t take the bait when they try to tease you. You will feel on top of the world when someone you respect singles you out for praise and attention at the end of April.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 83.

Sport

www.derbyshireguardian.co.uk

20TEN RACING TARGET CLIO TITLE

Jordan Stilp won the 2014 Clio Cup Graduate title.

T

he British Touring Car Championship is Britain’s premier race series with great action, attracting huge crowds to circuits across the country, and between the headline races the support card provides equally exciting entertainment. The races are highly competitive and most of the support series have been with the BTCC for many years, it is a great package and a wonderful day out for motorsport fans.

Sleepy Little Eaton, on the northern edge of Derby, is not where one expects to find a garage preparing cars for this adrenalin-charged world but tucked away, just off the main Alfreton Road, is 20Ten Racing making waves in the Renault UK Clio Cup. In just four years they have already taken a number of class titles and current driver Jordan Stilp took three outright race wins in 2014, on his way to the Graduate Cup title. For 2015 Jordan has his sights firmly set on the overall title.

Simon Hunt and Darren Wilson launched 20Ten Racing on the 1st January 2010, having both raced in the 750 Motor Club Stock Hatch championship.

Simon, with a great depth of knowledge in race car preparation and set-up, prepared Darren’s car. In 2011 the new team won the Clio Cup Masters’ Class and Clio Winter Cup titles, and the following year came the first outright Clio Cup race wins as Josh Cook won both races at Silverstone.

Based on the striking new Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo EDC road car, 2014 saw the fourth generation

Jordan with mum Andrea, dad John and girlfriend Lex after his victory at Knockhill (credit: Jacob Ebrey)

20Ten team principal Simon Hunt. of the thoroughbred Clio Cup racer, featuring a tuned 1.6-litre turbo-powered Renault engine, producing 220hp, through a sequential six-speed gearbox. The find of the season was 19 year old Jordan Stilp, in his second year in the Graduate Class, taking three race wins for 20Ten and the Graduate Cup title. “I didn’t know what to expect from 20Ten at the start of the season,” said Jordan, “but they’re a great little team. They work so hard and are so determined.”

The Northamptonshire youngster graduated from karts to the Ma5da Mk1 Championship in 2011, ending the season third overall with 10 race wins, earning him the ‘Rookie of the Year’ tag, and the Autumn Series title with a clean sweep of victories.

In 2012 he progressed into the Ma5da MX5 Championship and, with seven victories and 15 other podiums, he concluded the season as runnerup. Jordan made a strong impact as he stepped up to the 2013 Clio Cup Graduate class, ending the season 13th overall and seventh in class, but with 20Ten took pole position in the early season meeting at Donington.

Unfortunately, contact with, eventual champion, Mike Bushell compromised Jordan’s race and he had to settle for sixth place.

Jordan grew with the car through the season and, after fourth place at Oulton Park in a blanket finish, the teenager took a clean sweep of pole, victory and fastest lap for both races at Croft. Leading the first race from lights-to-

flag, the 20Ten Racing driver was never threatened and posted a fastest lap with a time of 1m33.518 seconds (81.80mph). As well as the outright win, of course, he also bagged his first Graduate Cup class success. “It was a very hard race, We pulled away and got a gap at first from everybody else but I had a big moment at the complex”, Jordan explained. “I don’t think I got enough heat into the right-rear tyre, as I went in there I was completely sideways, I thought it was over at that point!” Stilp delivered another great performance in race two to claim the win by 6.7 seconds, a massive margin by Clio Cup standards, and move into the championship top three. “It was a great weekend, I couldn’t have asked for more, it was absolutely unreal”, said an ecstatic Stilp.

“The second race was a fair bit easier than the first one, the stress of wanting to win had gone, and

“

It was a great weekend, I couldn’t have asked for more, it was absolutely unreal “

Jordan Stilp took three victories in 2014.

the gap just kept growing every lap. That gave me confidence to push on and then take it easier over the last few laps.”

Team principal Simon Hunt was delighted with Jordan’s progress. “I don’t know why but didn’t expect him to be quite as fast as he was! We’re delighted to have Jordan on board and enjoying a great season.”

Back in Little Eaton, the race cars are prepared alongside the bread-and-butter business of a regular garage performing MOT’s and general vehicle servicing work. As a busy race team 20Ten also ran Matlock businessman Craig Milner in the Masters Class and were joined, mid-season, by Mark Howard. In the Clio Series, a club-class event, the team ran another three cars for Brett Lidsey, Tom Barley and Derby’s Tom Butler.

Back at the sharp end, Jordan Stilp claimed a thirdplace podium place and his third season victory at the Scottish Knockhill circuit. “It’s been a great weekend,” said Jordan afterwards. “Huge thanks to my dad and everyone who has supported me.”

Family support is always important for a young

20Ten’s Little Eaton base. racing driver, and Jordan’s family are fully behind the youngster. Whilst his dad John’s property service has been Jordan’s title sponsor, mum Andrea works hard, behind the scenes, trying to secure additional sponsorship, essential to stay racing at this level and plan for the future. Jordan’s girlfriend, Lex, also helps out on race weekends handing out flyers.

Most young drivers view Clios as a step towards a British Touring Car drive. While Jordan would not turn that down, if offered, his long term goal is GT racing, possibly British GTs, but ultimately his long term target is to race in the 24-Hours at Le Mans.

20Ten have made a big impact, particularly for a small team, in a series where many of the teams are seasoned to the big occasion. Many observers were impressed with their performance in 2014 and, with Jordan Stilp back for a second term, 20Ten look the team-to-beat in 2015. The youngster is brimming with confidence. “When we roll up for the first races at Brands Hatch (5th April) I want to hit the ground running – and thrash everyone! I’m going out to win the title and nothing else.”

Simon was full of praise for his young charge, “The way Jordan won at Croft was extraordinary. That was the turning point and he was so strong after that. If the first half of the season had been as strong as the second, he would have been champion. I believe he will be this year.”

20Ten is a successful business.

Page 84. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

Haslam heads for two second places in Thailand.

WORLD SUPERBIKES: PODIUMS FOR HASLAM AND LOWES Leon Haslam finished second in both races of Sunday's second round of the World Superbike Championship, on his Red Devils Aprilia, at the new Chang circuit in Thailand. Alex Lowes came third in race two.

Confirming the pace he showed when winning race 2 in Australia, Haslam was once again amongst the front runners in Thailand, starting the races from the front row alongside Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team).

However, Haslam would get embroiled in battles early on in both races, which allowed Rea to establish an advantage that Haslam was unable to challenge. Even so, the Smalley rider was delighted to be on the podium again, having made his best start to the season for some years.

Rea, who also won in Australia, led from the start of race 1, quickly building a lead over the chasing pack. Former champion Tom Sykes made a great start from the second row, shadowing his Kawasaki team mate for the opening few turns before he was passed by Haslam who then set about hunting down Rea who remained clear by 6.329s at the flag.

“I was a bit too cautious on the first lap of race one and dropped to fourth," said the Smalley rider. "By

the time I got into second place Johnny (Rea) had pulled a couple of seconds on me. I closed on him a little but we’d opted for a different front tyre and it turned out to be a wrong decision and held me back towards the end of the race. We had a problem in race one that we’d not experienced all weekend, the team solved the problem and, overall we’ll take the podium finishes.”

Derby-based Alex Lowes (Voltcom Crescent Suzuki) says he is delighted to be back on the World Superbike Championship podium, even if he was left to rue a mistake that arguably cost him a brace of podiums.

Following a disappointing start in Australia, Lowes was able to turn his front row into a top three challenge. Unfortunately, a tip off at the tricky final corner whilst running third would drop Lowes down the order in race one and, though he would claw his way back to sixth place, he was then demoted to seventh after being judged to have overtaken under yellow flags.

Lowes fought back in race two, battling it out with Leon Haslam before settling for third, a first podium of the year for Suzuki. “One mistake away from it being a really great weekend,” said Lowes, “but I'm

Celebrations in the Haslam camp.

really happy with race two, I was quite aggressive at the start but I rode a steady race and it's a great way to thank the team for their hard work.”

Once past Lowes, Haslam was unable to make a serious impression on Rea, finishing 4.9 seconds behind with Lowes a further 4 seconds back. “Johnny got away again at the start of race two,” said Haslam, “but I’m not unhappy with two second places today. To have three second places and a win from the first four races of the year is good, I’m happy with that.”

After four races Rea leads the championship with 95 points, ahead of Haslam (85), Sykes (50) and reigning champion Sylvan Guintoli (41). Alex Lowes is seventh with 32 points.

Alex Lowes, delighted to be back on the podium.

TEAM DERBY DOMINATE AS THE ARENA OPENS

Cyclist Dame Sarah Storey opened the new Arena.

The Arena was a great venue for the badminton fixture.

The brand new Derby Arena and velodrome was officially opened in a ceremony on 19th March before a crowd of 1500 spectators. Paralympic champion Dame Sarah Storey and Derby MP Margaret Beckett unveiled a plaque commemorating the official opening of the Arena.

The velodrome is a central part of the facility, and the opening night saw several showcase cycling events take place including Storey and Olympic team pursuit champion Dani King.

Dame Storey, who has been training on the track in recent weeks, said: “It’s absolutely amazing. “I love riding here, I look forward to riding here again in the

future and I look forward to seeing everybody else enjoying their racing.”

Sir David Brailsford said the new Arena is a “superb facility”. “What’s exciting about a velodrome and a multi-use arena like Derby is it attracts all ages and all sizes of people,” said the Team Sky boss, “it’s open to everyone.”

Four nights later the Arena staged its first commercial event, Team Derby’s first home fixture in the inaugural National Badminton League.

On a memorable night Team Derby kick-started their season with a brilliant 5-0 trouncing of MK Badminton, and moved up to third in the table with

Gail Emms (right) and Martin Campbell got Team Derby off to a great start. just one match remaining. The top four, of six, then head for a knock-out play-off to decide the season champions in June.

For this event temporary seating was installed around the badminton court and, despite the size of the Arena, it became a very intimate space with the 750 spectators generating a tremendous atmosphere and support for the home side.

With just one match victory, from three, Team Derby needed a strong showing and head coach Donna Kellogg named herself in the team, bringing her vast experience to steady the nerves. Alongside she was able to call on Olympic silver medallist Gail Emms

MBE and British men’s No 1 Rajiv Ouseph.

In the opening mixed doubles contest MK Badminton’s Jessica Pugh and Ben Lane took the early advantage winning the first set 9-7 before Emms, and partner Martin Campbell, grew in confidence to win 3-1, taking the final set by 9 points to 1.

Afterwards Gail Emms remarked “I think there was a bit of pressure on me today, as I haven’t won one NBL match yet. My reputation was a little bit at stake seeing as I’m old enough to be their mother (Pugh and Lane)!”

Karin Schnaase made light work of Liz Caan, winning

her ladies singles tie 9-2, 9-4, 9-5 before Kellogg emerged to partner Kate Robertshaw for the ladies doubles. They comfortably took the opening set 9-2, before Jess Fletcher and Sophie Sankey rallied to take the second set 9-8. The experience of Kellogg and Robert shaw told as they dominated the next two games 9-2, 9-2 with the MK pair hampered by a wrist injury to Sophie Sankey.

Team captain Rajiv Ouseph was too powerful for Sam Parsons in the men’s singles, taking the tie 9-3, 9-4, 9-4. With a white-wash victory in prospect Chris Coles and Andy Ellis took the opening two sets of the men’s doubles tie against Peter Mills and Paul van Rietvelde before the MK pair fought back to two sets all. This was the tightest game of the evening and could have gone either way before the Team Derby pair opted for the PowerPlay at 1-0 and sealed the tie 3-0.

“I’m really pleased to win the match and every rubber counts,” said head coach Donna Kellogg, afterwards. “The Arena is fantastic, I’ve played badminton around the world and to be able to come and play in Derby at such a great facility is amazing.

We had great support out there tonight!”

Team Derby’s next fixture is at the Derby Arena on Monday 27th April against Nottingham, start time 7.45pm.

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 85.

A study in concentration from Rajiv Ouseph.

Kate Robertshaw and Donna Kellogg delivered in front of a passionate home crowd.

Karin Schnaase smashes a return against Liz Caan.

Explore With Xplorer

Village Games joins forces with British Orienteering to host family-friendly navigational challenges The navigational challenge activity Xplorer is proving a hit with parents and children across Derbyshire.

Over the past four years the successful partnership between Derbyshire Village Games and British Orienteering has seen thousands of people attend the family-friendly events designed for families with primary and pre-school aged children to explore, find markers and complete challenges.

Xplorer events have been organised North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield (Chesterfield, Hasland, Clay Cross and Dronfield), Derbyshire Dales (Matlock, Darley Dale, Ashbourne, Bakewell and Carsington Water), Amber Valley (Belper, Ripley), Derby City (Alvaston Park) and South Derbyshire (Swadlincote, Rosliston).

There have also been events held in Erewash (Ilkeson and Long Eaton), and High Peak (Buxton and Whaley Bridge), in partnership with local authorities.

National Participation Manager at British Orienteering, Natalie Weir, said: “Imagine an activity you can do with all the family (and not just drop off the kids to a sports session and go shopping or read a book) and imagine an activity where it doesn’t matter how young, old or fit you are (as you can run, walk or jog at your own pace) and finally imagine the excitement of a scavenger hunt in the woods, or a treasure hunt in your local park. That’s us!”

“The Xplorer provides a fantastic opportunity to gets kids up and active, introduce map reading and decision making skills and most importantly not have to go far to have lots of fun with their families in the local parks!”

are always glad to have opportunities to get out and give them a break.”

“Xplorer provides a solution to increasing grass roots participation in an innovative way and the focus is entirely on taking part and having fun as a family. The resources and support are excellent and the activity is so simple and can be delivered by anyone with just a small bit of training. All National Governing Bodies are under pressure to provide these ‘less traditional/casual’ forms of their activity and British Orienteering have come up with the best one I’ve been involved with thus far.”

Claire*, from Dronfield, went along with her partner and two children. The 41 year old said: “The theme got the children excited and we discovered a new area of the park. As the event is free, you have nothing to lose.”

Sue*, 35, attended with her two sons, a friend and her two daughters. The Dronfield resident said: “The kids loved finding the markers and liked the certificates and sticker. Xplorer is really fun and the kids loved it!”

Katy Gregory, 37, from Dronfield said: “I attended an Xplorer event with my son and friends. We went alongside to get outside and it was a lot of fun.”

Jo Marsden-Heathcote, 34, from Dronfield went along with her children, husband and friends. She said: “It’s a great outdoors activity and fun for all the family. It was so easy to go along and the children found it really good fun.” * Participants did not wish to give their surnames.

XPLORER IN NORTH EAST DERBYSHIRE

XPLORER IN DERBYSHIRE DALES

In North East Derbyshire, Xplorer events have been held at Sharley Park in Clay Cross and Cliffe Park in Dronfield.

Derbyshire Dales Village Games Coordinator, Katy Stubbs organised the Halloween Xplorer event at Whitworth Park in Darley Dale.

North East Derbyshire Village Games Coordinator, Nathan Culkin, said: “Xplorer events give families the opportunity to do an activity together for free or at a very low cost. There is something for everyone; parents or older children can do the map reading, younger children love spotting the markers, there are quiz questions, which are good for parents, and grandparents, but prove educational for the children. Certificates and prizes always popular with children and the events give people the opportunity to explore the parks and possibly go to parts they have not been to before.”

Katy said: “We worked alongside Darley Dale Primary School PTA who helped us to advertise the event along with British Orienteering. We used staff from Derbyshire Dales District Council during the event, to help with the set up and delivery. Everyone that attended was part of a family with mums, dads and grandparents taking part. 85 people took part – even in the rain!”

“Although Xplorer is geared towards children, it also gets the adults active without realising it and encourages healthier lifestyles in that way. Parents, who spend a lot of time with their children at home,

Sharon White, from Matlock, is a member of Darley Dale Primary School PTA and has attended six Xplorer events with students. She said: “The children really enjoy the events and have so much fun – they loved the themed Halloween event as it was in the dark. The events are well set up, suitable for all age ranges and are also challenging. The children in school keep asking me when the next one is!”

Chris Coles and Andy Ellis faced the toughest opposition in the men’s doubles.

Page 86. Issue 27: Derbyshire Guardian

BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW:

The cars line up on the grid, ready for the new season.

EXCITING SEASON AHEAD AFTER BTCC SHAKE-UP Get set for the most action-packed weekend of the season (18th/19th April) as the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship returns to Donington Park. It promises to be the most unpredictable season for years with a full grid of 32 cars, as the season progresses. With new cars and drivers, and a big shuffle in the established order, there will be thrills and spills guaranteed for the three races on the Sunday.

At one point it appeared as though history could repeat itself. A lack of funding meant 2009 British Touring Car champion Colin Turkington found himself without a drive in 2010. Having taken his second title for West Surrey Racing last year the genial Ulsterman was unable to secure a drive with WSR when title sponsor eBay withdrew. With Andy Priaulx and Sam Tordoff lined up to drive two of the three WSR BMWs team boss Dick Bennetts said he wanted Turkington back, but in the end it was the equally popular Rob Collard who secured the drive.

Remarkably the champion finds himself teamed up with last year’s closest rival Jason Plato, in a ‘superteam’ line-up, to drive a Volkswagen CC for Team BMR. Plato, champion in 2001 and 2010, is the winning-most driver in the BTCC with 88 wins from 455 starts in a career spanning 18 years.

This is a real coup for BMR chief Warren Scott, and a statement of intent for his young team. In the team’s second season, last year, he tempted double champion Alain Menu back to Britain. For 2015 Turkington has brought his engineer, Kevin Berry, from WSR and Plato brings Carl Faux with him from

Nic Hamilton joins the series later in the year.

Colin Turkington finally gets the chance to defend his BTCC crown.

Triple Eight. The already enthusiastic BMR squad has now added a wealth of experience which should help them to develop the promising VW into a race winner and ultimately a championship contender.

Turkington explained his decision to join Scott’s team. “You want to go somewhere you feel you have a chance to win,” said the champion. “Given time there is the possibility that we will do that.

Warren is motivated and ambitious and I share his enthusiasm. Sometimes you have to take a risk and step outside your comfort zone.”

At Triple Eight, Plato turned the MG6 into a winner on its debut in 2012. He is full of confidence for the challenge ahead. “I think we are in great shape. My plan is to go out and win at the first event.”

The team will run four cars including team owner Warren Scott and Árón Smith.

“Given time there is the possibility that we will do that. Warren is motivated and ambitious and I share his enthusiasm. Sometimes you have to take a risk and step outside your comfort zone.”

Andy Priaulx returns to the BTCC, in West Surrey Racing’s title-winning BMW 125i M Sport, after an absence of 12 seasons, looking to complete unfinished business. The Guernseyman has had a stellar career taking European and three World Touring Car titles, but missed out on a crack at the British title having just one promising season in 2002.

Two pole positions during a stand-in appearance at Oulton Park, in 2001, led to a drive in an Arena Motorsport Honda Civic for 2002. With a win and three podiums, Priaulx finished fifth before Honda reduced their commitment for 2003, and Priaulx was out of a drive.

His drive in Australia’s Bathurst 1000km earned him a seat in the Belgian RBM team’s BMW European Touring Car programme for 2003 and, with them, he took the 2004 title. When the series was given World Championship status in 2005, Priaulx dominated and was crowned World Champion for three consecutive seasons.

Since then Priaulx’s BMW career has seen him in the DTM (German Touring Cars) and racing sports cars in Europe and America, but he is now excited by his return to the BTCC. “I’m a touring car driver and I’ve had a fantastic career,” says Priaulx. “I’ve won in GTs but it’s touring cars that really excites me.”

“I feel there is a championship, or two, still in me,” he adds. “I have to be realistic having not driven in the UK for years, but I’ve got a great team and the right car. I’ll be disappointed if I don’t get results soon.”

Priaulx lines up alongside Sam Tordoff, a 2014 winner at Donington in the Triple Eight MG6, and

long-time WSR racer Rob Collard.

Andrew Jordan has left his father’s Eurotech Racing team in search of a fresh challenge he hopes will bring a second British Touring Car title. Although still only 25 years old, Jordan has completed seven seasons with the Tamworth outfit taking 14 race wins and the BTCC crown in 2013.

For 2015 Jordan has signed a one-year deal to drive a Pirtek-backed MG6 for Triple Eight Racing, a seat vacated by Jason Plato’s departure. Ian Harrison’s squad have seven driver’s title and a host of team and manufacturer titles to their credit, and so now hope to keep Jordan at the front.

In three seasons Triple Eight recorded 22 race victories with the MG6, but no titles, so Jordan expects the car to be competitive. “Joining this team gives me the best chance I have of winning the title again,” said Jordan. “I had a number of options. My father and I spoke at the end of the year because I wasn’t at the level I needed to be in 2014. We looked at the option that worked best for us.”

Jordan has previously driven for Triple Eight, in 2008, and with Plato leaving Harrison was keen to sign another leading driver.

“There are not many who could replace a driver like that,” said Harrison. “We looked around and Andrew was the obvious choice.”

Jordan will take his race engineer, Andy Brown, with him to Triple Eight and his father Mike will take a step back from running the family’s Eurotech team. This will help Mike to concentrate on Andrew’s career and other projects including his

own historic racing programme. Former Eurotech driver Jeff Smith has bought a shareholding in the team and will also drive one of the cars alongside Martin Depper.

Team Dynamics will run the new Honda Civic Type R, which they unveiled at Donington, but is not yet available for the road. Former champions Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden pair up for a sixth consecutive season of racing with Honda, having given the Civic Tourer an historic first BTCC win for an estatetype car in 2015, but they struggled to be really competitive.

Triple champion Neal managed just a single victory, at Knockhill, while 2012 champion Shedden’s three win helped maintain his record of a top-three finish in every year of his present spell at Team Dynamics.

Premium marque Infiniti joins the championship for 2015 with their Q50 and drivers Richard Hawken and Derek Palmer Jr. As of the season launch, at Donington, the car has yet to be tested, but looks great. The team is run by ’Support Our Paras’, made

Derek Palmer Jr and Richard Hawkens with their new Infiniti Q50.

The BTCC Class of 2015.

up entirely of ex-servicemen and whilst Hawken and Palmer both have a lot of historic racing experience, it will be a huge learning curve for the whole crew.

Also new to the championship are the first and second in last year’s Clio Cup, Mike Bushell, in an AmD Ford Focus, and Josh Cook (Power Maxed Chevrolet Cruze).

Joining later in the year, at Croft, is Nic Hamilton, younger brother of F1 World Champion Lewis. Nic has previously raced in Clios, and this will a big step up in class, but as the first disabled driver in the BTCC he wants to inspire others. “When I was young I was not expected to be able to walk,” says Nic, who suffers with cerebral palsy, “but I have always set myself goals, and being a racing driver

Derbyshire Guardian. Issue 27: Page 87. was one. I hope I can inspire others to achieve their dreams.”

There are a couple of rule tweaks for the coming year, with drivers not allowed to save the softoption tyre exclusively for the final reverse-grid race at each meeting. Now they will have to use it strategically on three occasions in each of the three races during the season, with the exception of the high-speed Thruxton circuit. The grid for race two will be according to fastest lap times from race one, not finishing order.

29 cars are expected to race at Donington as the Motorbase Ford Focus’s of Mat Jackson and James Cole will not appear until Snetterton.

Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal reveal their new Honda Civic Type R.

Andy Priaulx has won European and World titles for BMW.

PROST TURNS THE MIAMI VICE

Vergne (right) and Prost lead the field through the first turn.

N

icolas Prost has taken his first victory in the Formula e championship, in downtown Miami, in March. The son of the four-time F1 World Champion, Alain Prost, was set to win the inaugural race in Beijing until a coming together with Nick Heidfeld at the final turn. For the fifth round Prost (e.dams-Renault) was always in the leading group and resisted a late challenge by Andretti Autosport debutant Scott Speed to take the race win, by 0.43 seconds, and a grip on the championship lead.

Pole sitter Jean-Eric Vergne (Andretti Autosport) led from the start, although Prost tagged him as the cars bunched for the first turn, and the early order settled down with Vergne ahead of Round 2 winner Sam Bird (Virgin Racing) and Prost. Approaching the mid-race pit stops, Bird was pushing hard and seized his chance, slipping through to lead into the left-hand turn 5, much to the delight of team boss Richard Branson.

Vergne immediately dived for the pits while Bird continued, only to realise his battery level was low.

He was forced to ease off to make it back to the pitlane, losing two positions in the process, as Prost and Speed took advantage. Bird’s mistake may well have cost him the race.

With all the pit stops complete, Daniel Abt (Audi Sport Abt) led from Prost and Abt’s team mate, championship leader Lucas Di Grassi, ahead

of Andretti pair Vergne and Speed. Speed was improving with every lap, and clearly quicker than Vergne in the later stages, making an easy pass on his team mate before cruising past Di Grassi into third.

Abt was coming under increasing pressure, with less than a second covering the top three and when Prost finally got through, two laps from home,

“That was a big learning experience, Andretti gave us a good car and it makes my job a lot easier. That was a lot of fun.”

Speed quickly followed suit. Prost clipped the wall at the start of the final lap, such was the intensity of the fight, but clung on to take his maiden victory from Speed with Abt five seconds adrift in third. Di Grassi fell to eighth while Sam Bird trailed in ninth.

A relieved Prost said he had been surprised to see Speed in his mirrors. “I was following Daniel (Abt), but not easy to overtake when I was, like, ‘Wow! Who’s that guy behind?!’ I was a bit lucky, because

Nicolas Prost celebrates his first Formula e win.

I touched the wall one lap from the end, but what a great race!”

Scott Speed had tested at Donington Park, preseason, but this was his first his first race outing and he was delighted with second place. “That was a big learning experience,” he said. “Andretti gave us a good car and it makes my job a lot easier. That was a lot of fun.”

Vergne leads the early stages from Bird and Prost.

Sam Bird was very disappointed with his race, after such a good start. “Some missed communication meant I didn’t come in when I should have. The second car felt very different.”

Prost now leads the title hunt with 67 points, ahead of Di Grassi (60), Bird (52) with Nelson Piquet Jr on 49.

The series moves to Long Beach (4th April) before heading for Europe and Monte Carlo on the 9th May. The round in Berlin has been brought forward (23rd May) to allow an extra date in Moscow (6th June) before the final rounds in London. This has now been increased to two races, rounds 10 and 11, on the 27th and 28th June.

Prost took his first win of the season.

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DAVE MACKAY 1934 – 2015

Dave Mackay lifts the Watney Cup in 1970.

Roy McFarland paid tribute to Dave Mackay.

Dave Mackay in action.

Second Division champions 1968-9. experience to Derby’s team, to lead, inspire and develop their potential. With nothing to lose Clough found himself at White Hart Lane and given no chance of changing Mackay’s mind about his future.

Clough needed all his powers of persuasion to talk Mackay round. In his autobiography, Walking On Water, Brian Clough wrote ‘He was going to transform my team and I was going to give Dave Mackay his second lease of life. He was on borrowed time with the promise of fourteen grand spread over three years. I never did a better piece of business in my entire career.’

There was a shock for Mackay when he arrived at the Baseball Ground. His new role was that of a sweeper behind the young defence of Ron Webster and teenagers Roy McFarland and John Robson both with enormous potential but lacking experience. It was an inspired move that, once a stuttering start to the season was overcome, saw the Rams cruise sublimely to the 1968-69 second division title with a, then, record-breaking haul of 63 points. In a taste of things to come, Derby beat two of the country’s leading sides, Chelsea and Everton, in the League Cup on two magical nights at the Baseball Ground. Mackay was also named the Football Writers Association Footballer of the Year, jointly with another veteran, Manchester City’s Tony Book.

Mackay’s presence and stature towered over the young side. His legs could no longer carry him all over the field, as in his Tottenham days, but the team’s skipper could be heard above the crowd, barking out his orders and marshalling his young troops, a role in which he excelled. With his trade-mark barrel chest Mackay was a fearsome opponent and added steel to Derby’s back four whose progression was enormous. Local lad Webster, one of few to survive from the pre-Clough era found his niche at right-back having a long and successful career with the Rams, as did Robson and McFarland.

Alongside Mackay, McFarland developed into one of the country’s finest centre-halves, a classy player whose career was hampered by an injury picked up in an appearance for England.

Derby set the first division alight with some sparkling football and early into their first season in the top flight demolished Mackay’s former all-star Tottenham side by five goals to nil in front of an all-

time record crowd of 41,826 at the Baseball Ground.

Derby went on to finish fourth and eleventh in two years under Mackay’s leadership. To succeed Mackay, Clough brought in Colin Todd, from Sunderland, who would create another superb alliance with McFarland. Mackay was given a standing ovation when he left in May 1971, having played his part in transforming Cough’s Derby.

Mackay went to Swindon, as player-manager and the following year took charge of Nottingham Forest. When the bombshell of the resignation of Clough and Taylor hit Derby County, there was only one person, at the time, with boots big enough to

smaller clubs and a couple of successful spells managing and coaching in the Middle East. Despite his reputation as a tough opponent on the field, outside of football Dave was a kind and gentle man, with a great sense of humour. In retirement, far from his planned return to his Scottish roots, he made his home in Burton Joyce in Nottinghamshire.

Former team mate Roy McFarland paid tribute to Mackay on Derby County’s website. “Dave came at the start of the 1968-69 season and it was simply an immense signing. I don’t think we realised at that point how important he would be to our futures because there was myself at only 20 years of age,

“

When people talk about Dave Mackay, people tend to talk about the toughness and how hard he was in terms of his tackling.

“

D

erby County legend Dave Mackay has passed away, aged 80, on 2nd March at the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham. In the twilight of Mackay’s playing career Brian Clough persuaded him to lead his young Derby County side and they won the second division title at a canter. Mackay later returned to manage the side, winning the League Championship in 1975.

Born in Edinburgh, Mackay began his career with Heart of Midlothian helping them to success in the Scottish League and both Scottish cup competitions before joining Tottenham Hotspur in 1959. With Mackay in a midfield role, Spurs won the league and cup double in 1960-61 and the FA Cup again in 1962 and 1967. He also represented Scotland on 22 occasions.

By the summer of 1968 Mackay, now 33 and coming to the end of a glittering career, was planning to return to Hearts as assistant manager. Here at Derby Brian Clough and Peter Taylor were in the process of assembling a young and talented side, but after twelve months there had been no progress in the second division league table.

It was Clough’s assistant, Taylor, who suggested that Dave Mackay was the man to add some

replace Clough. Dave Mackay returned to Derby, as manager, in October 1973 and guided the Rams to third in the championship.

He supplemented Clough’s team with some inspired signings of his own; Bruce Rioch, Francis Lee and incredibly, given his previous relationship with Rams fans, Charlie George of Arsenal. All three became great favourites at Derby, George the new darling of the Pop Side fans.

In Mackay’s second season Derby repeated Clough’s feat by taking the League Championship title for the second time, going on beat West Ham in the Charity Shield at Wembley. The side suffered an unfortunate extra-time second round defeat to Real Madrid in the second round of the European Cup before reaching the semi-final of the FA Cup in 1976. Following a poor start to the 1976-77 campaign Mackay was replaced by Tommy Docherty and Derby’s most successful era came to an end. Dave Mackay had played not one, but two pivotal roles in this period and a place deep in the heart of every Rams fan.

Mackay would remain in football for another twenty years taking a succession of management jobs at

John McGovern, John Robson, Ron Webster, Kevin Hector, John O’Hare and we were youngsters waiting for something to happen.”

“His arrival was that moment. We sailed out of the Second Division and he was like the Head Master and we were the pupils. We followed him. When we fell out of line, Brian and Peter were behind ready to tell us what to do and to sort us out, so we were being guided all the time. The main guidance, though, was from Mackay on the football field.

For me personally, playing alongside him was an unbelievable experience.”

“When people talk about Dave Mackay, people tend to talk about the toughness and how hard he was in terms of his tackling. What people forget about Dave Mackay was how deft, how delicate and how good a player he was. His touch was fantastic, his prowess, his passing was excellent and we were just young kids alongside him wanting to learn our trade. He was our teacher.”

Dave Mackay is survived by his wife Isabel, whom he married in 1954, and their four children, David, Derek, Valerie and Julie, to whom we send our condolences.