Still only 25p
Friday 4 2010
REPORTING LOCAL LIFE SINCE 2007
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CLARITY INSURANCE, THE SKY’S THE LIMIT. TEL: 01392 444 222
PINK FLOYD BAND MEMBER SEEKS FILM MAKERS By Julia O’Shaughnessy
World renowned saxophonist, Raphael Ravenscroft, is recruiting local budding film makers in and around Exeter. He was inspired to compose an album after reading and following the trail of Santiago, in Paulo Coelho’s bestselling book ‘The Alchemist’. Rapheal hopes to include the music in the film currently being directed by Laurence Fishburne and produced by The Weinstein Company. The first track was recorded by members of an Exeter school. The choir will also be travelling with Raphael to Westminster Abbey, on the 28th of this month, where they will perform ‘And a Little Child Shall Lead’ in a live appearance to Gordon Brown and many other celebrities. Raphael is a composer and saxophonist,
possibly remembered best for his long moody vignette on Gerry Rafferty’s late seventies mega-hit ‘Baker Street’.
He has also worked with other legendary artists such as Marvin Gaye. He modestly said, “There were times when I was in the right place, right time and I’m keen to pass that good fortune and knowledge on to others”. Very keen to work with undiscovered talent and give them a chance to join the crew, Raphael’s team is recruiting volunteers for three projects. Volunteers are also required for the production of a new book and DVD, ‘How to play the Saxophone like a Star’.These to be filmed in a saxophone masterclass, and host 140 participants, at the Phoenix, Gandy Street in late November. . If interested please email, by October 26th a CV or competent skills to raphaelravenscroftproductions@googlemail.com.
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Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
MATURE STUDENT’S PARKING FINE IS MORE THAN CAR’S VALUE A MATURE student and loan parent is being fined more than the car is worth for not sending her parking complaint letter recorded delivery to car parking enforcers. Julia O’Shaughnessy explained she parked her car and paid three pound to the metre at Exeter College site in Queen Street. She says the parking metre accepted the money, however did not register the time of parking. When returning to the car Miss O’Shaughnessy was shocked to find a parking ticket: “I had left a note in the window to say what had happened and my mobile number to contact me if there was a problem. I also mistakenly thought the car park was the college property”.
Friends Fundraise for local biking legend.
After seeing the ticket Miss O’Shaughnessy called Saphire Parking: “I was told to send a letter to the company, with the note I left in the windscreen, explaining what had happened. The receptionist assured me nothing would come of it, but now I’ve received a fine from Valley Parking For £130”. The ticket only provides the car owner with a telephone number for the enforcement agency. Jaz, a representative from Valley Parking Enforcement says: “We cannot give anyone a customer service telephone number for our client. Our client has obviously not received the appeal letter. The fine must be paid and another appeal sent to our client recorded delivery. If the client agrees they will refund the fine paid.
Earl Richmond of Heavitree Road, Exeter had been feeling ill for some time. After a couple of visits to the GP he had been diagnosed with a suspected enflamed stomach condition. After a scan Earl was diagnosed with terminal cancer of EARL ENJOYS A MOMENT WITH FRIENDS the pancreas and lungs almost one month ago.
The fundraiser was held at the Kings Pub at the bottom of Cowick Street, Exeter on October 22nd. Catherine Coysh and her partner Andy Taylor run the pub. Andy said: “Biker’s who know we’ve had do’s here before suggested us as a suitable venue to Paul and Graeme. We were more than happy to offer the venue for free for such a good cause”.
Miss O’Shaughnessy is very annoyed, “I don’t have £130 to pay out in the hope I may get it back, I’m a loan parent. I don’t owe them the money, I have paid for my parking. I would also like to know why the company have mislaid my letter and why the collections officer did not see the machine was £3 over when they emptied the machine?”. College advisors have suggested Miss O’Shaughnessy see the Citizens Advice Bureau. Should you have any similar queries please contact the Citizens Advice Bureau, Wat Tyler House, Exeter. by local companies. Andy Taylor said: “The evening was brilliant, it was absolutely chockablock. People were really touched by Earl’s speech”.
FRIENDS and customers shocked by the news of a colleagues terminal cancer raised £5,500 to help the family in ten days.
His friend Paul Witherford, a Sales Executive from Bridge Motorcycles said: “We met twelve years ago when I started as a Salesman here at Bridge and we’ve stayed friends every since. Everyone was shocked to hear the news. Earl worked as a Sales Executive with Bridge Motorcycles for nineteen years and he is well known in the biking community.”
In the meantime, we will continue to collect the fine, as is our right to do so”.
Advertising for the event was made on two websites and spread by word of mouth. Paul said: “Once one person heard, they were all ringing Bridge in their tens to find out if the rumour was true. The biking community is tight nit and all his customers and friends wanted to know what they could do.”
Paul also noted the speech as a special moment in the evening: “Earl said he felt like Jimmy Stewart from ‘It’s a wonderful Life’. He said everything had seemed bleak, but then all these people have come out of the woodwork and he realised he felt better having the support of so many people. Material things don’t matter it is the influence and impact you make on other peoples’ lives that counts and Earl is doing that.” Andy Taylor agreed: “After the speech there were quite a few with tears in peoples’ eyes. No-one knows what’s around the corner and I feel we should live each day to the full.”
One hundred and fifty tickets were sold at £5 per entry. Paul continued: “Many, many people donated much more than the ticket price. Stuart Anthony, the Director of Bridge, instantly gave a personal donation of £1,000”.
All of the £5,500 raised is being given to Earl and his family. The three fundraisers realised: “Earl’s wife has had to give up work to care for him and although she has the help of their two sons Patrick and James. We felt the money would take away some of the financial worries”.
Two rock bands, Reckless and El Cahones played on the night. The charity auction was popular and included biking equipment and a free day in a Morgan sportscar, all donated free
Earl, who will be 51 in November, is about to start his chemotherapy treatment this month. People wishing to contribute should contact Paul Witherford at Bridge Motorcycles.
“Things have calmed down and the vandalism has reduced since the large groups of teenagers have been moved on”, says Roz a parent and
resident of Glasshouse Lane. A Section 30 was issued covering the Burnt House Lane a week ago and it is hoped this will be as effective as the intervention has been in other areas of the country.
SECTION 30 DISPERSES DELINQUENTS
FROM this weekend the Countess Wear area is permanently covered by a Section 30 dispersal order under the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003. Groups of up to thirty children and young adults have in the past terrorized the estate. The order will ensure that groups of children cannot loiter in the area. More than two unaccompanied children will be, “literally put in the back of a Police car and taken home”, says Liz Fisher, Housing Officer for Exeter City Council. Mrs Fisher has been involved in various neigbourhood initiatives to stop youth crime and vandalism around the city.
Anyone wishing to know more can contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 08452 777 444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. AREA HISTORY: Glass House lane was named in 1947 after the glass factory that had existed by the river from 1681. Up until that date, bottles had been imported by sea from Bristol and London.
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
BARICADED HOLE PROTECTS LOCAL RESIDENTS AND WORKERS FROM A FALL
LOCALS WAKE TO DISCOVER DRAIN COVER THIEVES ‘STEEL’ AGAIN !
This incident is the second theft of metal drain covers in just over two weeks. The first being from behind a pub in North Hill, Plymouth, fifty miles away. Drain smuggling in Devon hit the news three years ago when local Church Bells were also stolen from a restoration shop in Tavistock.
NEWTON Abbot residents woke to find metre deep holes open in a walkway joining their area to Milber Trading Estate.
The following year four inscribed plaques and 500 Devon road signs joined the increasing list of metal-related crime.
Although Police have cordoned off the danger, local workers were concerned to see a fire hydrant and six drain covers missing.
Rising metal prices (£640 a tonne) have fueled a trend encouraging thieves worldwide to join in what has been quoted as a ‘victimless crime’.
Matthew Sharland, a local office worker said: “This is ridiculous, the covers were taken in the middle of the night, they are right on a walkway where lots of people come back and forth from work. We’re lucky no-one has fallen down and killed themselves”.
With 60% of recovered metal being exported from the UK, according to Police Review, it is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK. Anyone with information about the two thefts should call police on 08452 777444 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
£4 Cocktails £3 Wine £2 Beer
BARICADED HOLE PROTECTS LOCAL RESIDENTS AND WORKERS FROM A FALL
TAX-FRY 01392 332 332
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IN COURT TODAY
ILFRACOMBE COUNCILLOR CLAIMS FRAUDULENT BENEFITS COUNCILLOR Laurence Haydn-Higgins is today facing a prison sentence for fraudulent benefit claims to his own Council. The family from Ilfracombe, were overpaid housing and council tax benefits in excess of £5,000. North Devon District Council discovered his deceit during a routine visit when his wife Julie Haydn-Higgins disclosed she had been working. The prosecutor, David Sapiecha, brought the case before Exeter County Court on the basis Mr Haydn-Higgins had applied for means tested benefits in May 2005 and, “Didn’t give an honest and complete account of the family finances”.
This is not the only false representation Mr Haydn-Higgins made to the Council. Over three years his wife had earned over £22,000 and when the amounts of his working tax and child tax credit increased, he still failed to inform the Council.
Julie Haydn-Higgins had been working in a new position for three months and earnt an additional £1,677 prior to the Council’s final discovery. This was during a routine home visit in May 2006 with Julie Hay an Intervention Officer from the Financial Services Department of the Council. Mr Haydn-Higgins had declined to be interviewed twice. Julie Hay uncomfortably took the stand and gave evidence from notes she had taken prior to
STAGECOACH BUS DRIVER CHARGED WITH SEX OFFENCES STAGECOACH have employed a convicted paedophile to drive buses in and around Exeter. The bus company have confirmed the identity of one of their drivers, but have denied his name is Chris Pollick. Miss Williams, his former step-daughter brought in the photo and says Mr Pollick has lied about his name to gain employment. Miss Williams of Heavitree Avenue, Exeter alleges she was sexually, mentally and physically abused by her stepfather between the ages of 9 and 14.
Her Mother was apparently unaware and Miss Williams says she was, “Too frightened to tell her”. Her Mother passed fifteen years ago without ever knowing of her daughters’ ordeal. Something Miss Williams has said: “I’m glad she never knew”. Miss Willaims had not previously wanted to bring up the matter outside of remaining family as she wanted to, “Let sleeping dogs lie”. However, she now says she is incensed as her ex-step father is driving buses for Stagecoach.
LOCAL YOUTHS CAUSE NEAR DEATH VEHICLE ACCIDENT VANDALS have been targetted in a special operation on the Kings Heath estate, Exeter.
Sian DeLap had been plagued with constant attacks on her vehicle and property: “In one week my car was dented, the tyres knifed, my
Father’s car windows were scatched all over with a metal object and there was an attempted break-in”. However, Mrs DeLap decided she would not put up with it anymore when the vandals loosened her car bonnet. Mrs DeLap did not notice it until driving down the dual carriageway having picked up her sister, 2 year old niece and 4 year old nephew. “I had slowed to 55mph having been in a build up of traffic. Suddenly the bonnet flew up, smashed over the windscreen and completely covered my line of sight”. Only with prescence of mind was Mrs DeLap able to keep the car straight and pull over safely without crashing or causing danger to other vehicles on the road. Her sister, Mrs Wainright of
Councillor Laurence Haydn-Higgins and at the visit two years ago. She confirmed Mr Haydn-Higgins was not present for the visit when Mrs Haydn-Higgins said, “Ah, I’m working”, and the officer replied, “I wasn’t aware of that”. Mr Haydn-Higgins denies both charges. The case continues. Previously her step-father’s employment included work as a lone delivery driver dropping newspapers to local newsagents for WH Smith. She also says she spoke to one of the Stagecoach Managers informally, who replied, “We wouldn’t be able to do anything about it until you are willing to come in and make a formal statement”. Miss Parsons fears the reactions of her ex-step father and his family, but says she is worried for the children and vulnerable people who are unaware of his history and “Could be groomed and also fall victim to his predatory nature”. Chris Pollick previously served four years for sex with a minor. Plymouth said: “I don’t know how we didn’t crash, I was so scared I couldn’t move. I didn’t know what had happened. The bonnet flipped up and smashed so badly that I thought a car had come over the barrier from the other side of the carriageway and smashed on top of us. If Sian hadn’t acted so quickly we would all have been dead. I can’t believe vandalism and stupid teenagers have led to this”. Local Police Officer Sharon Tooze has been dealing with the case: “It has been quite a difficult issue to deal with as no-one on the estate wanted to talk to us about it in case their car or property were targetted. We sent letters to residents, installed CCTV and a large security light into the main car park affected. We had a fortunate conclusion to the matter when using a sting car. The vandals broke into Mrs DeLap’s second car and then the planted car. With this and the CCTV evidence we were able to get a conviction”. The convicted youths cannot be named for legal reasons.
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NEW INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SOCIAL MEDIA IS ‘HIT’ IN EXETER TWO coffees in Starbucks, Exeter, last August sparked two friends to organise the first social media conference in the South West.
The conference was only advertised using social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook and email. The cost of the advertising and marketing was nil and attracted 180 delegates from all over the globe, with a ticket price of between £5 and £35 each. The main theme was based on the ability to make an investment into social media and gain a return.
and was met with mixed reactions. Some felt the social media concept was not a new idea and others spoke out to say they did not feel they, “Had learnt anything new’, but only one person has requested a refund. These questions pre-empted outrage from the internet community following the conference and comments such as, “Without social media you people wouldn’t even be there!” and “How do you think this conference was organised?” were two comments projected regularly onto the
LOST in SM? Find a WAY OUT IT Solutions 01392 201 201
Alike Minds Conference 2009. Delegates online and present contribute to the discussion. Local businesses and charities sent representatives. Public relations officer, Sarah Parkhouse from the Red Cross said, “We are using twitter already to communicate between offices, but I’m hoping to pick up tips to utilise it further”. The event, streamed live around the world via Ustream.com, also allowed delegates from the internet community to participate and started with a controversial video from Scott Gould, who introduced himself as ‘nobody’. His modesty prepared participants for some straight talking from speakers and panellists who included a local solicitor James Barisic and Carl Haggerty from Devon County Council. Trey Pennington, author and Social Media Manager for the Jones Group, informed everyone, hits on social media sites have taken over the number of visits to pornographic sites.
large screen behind the panellists. Most delegates showed more enthusiasm and almost revolutionary tones, one predicting, “National newspapers will disintegrate and we are not going to be led by the nose, by the media anymore”. Rich Waghorn, creator of twitter-based ‘OutWithABang’, was asked whether he felt social media was partially responsible for the deterioration of the print industry. He replied, “Businesses wishing to thrive in the future can not stop this phenomenon”, then reiterated a recent comment by The Guardian’s Emily Bell, “We are entering the age of participation and journalists must engage”.
James Barisic, from Every’s Solicitors in Exeter spoke candidly about his experiences as cofounder of their PhotoLegal podcast.
Apart from the controversial questions all seemed glued to their seats until realising the Guildhall car park shut at 6pm. The conference finished at 6:30pm, but through the power of new media all were able to recap the nuggets from Sky’s, Maz Nadjm’s final spot on Ustream.com.
Olivier Alain Blanchard, manager of thebrandbuilder.com, gave a demonstration regarding ‘Social Media: Return on Investment’
Article Links: http://alikeminds.org/ http://www.exeterconferencecentre.co.uk/
“I’m Nobody”, Scott Gould Social Media Guru
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
BUSINESS NEWS
WOMEN IN BUSINESS COLUMN
CELINA WEST, DIRECTOR, SARAH WEST RECRUITMENT Woman’s intuition and years of experience have given us an edge in local recruitment. Everything’s done with a click of a switch, but we haven’t forgotten the personal touch. Providing excellent customer service produces results. I remember a lovely guy who had difficulty finding work. We looked at his CV, it said: “I am responsible for all of the customer complaints that come into the company.” He laughed when we helped him to realise what he was suggesting. Laughter. Perhaps an odd recommendation, but I know many successful women and they all have the ability to find humor in stressful situations. Once you laugh, it no longer has the power to debilitate you and a solution is easier to find.
“Woman’s intuition and years of experience have given us an edge in local recruitment”... I’m one of the Director’s of Sarah West Recruitment, Exeter and I feel very in touch with what’s happening in the regions employment market. Although everyone’s talking about the credit crunch, we’ve found the local market quite buoyant. Over the year we’ve been developing our service further. The last six months have been very exciting and we are incredibly busy. It’s become increasingly important to have an internet profile and our new website www. sarahwestrecruit.co.uk goes live this week (10/11/09). Working closely with clients to understand their needs is important to me. When the opportunity came to work with Sarah Knight I jumped at the chance. We are different to other agencies. We look beyond the job description and find the right person with the right skills. Quite often this is someone who may not have ticked all the boxes with their CV, but they are the right person for the company and the job. My recruitment career started in 1992 with a corporate agency running a large contract for British Telecom. I then moved on to work for a successful independent agency winning top performer awards for several consecutive years. Later I became Branch Manager, Regional Manager then moved to a Regional Director position with Kelly’s Recruitment.
Good infrastructure within our lives has been a part of our preparation for growth. People buy people, so be yourself and know it’s OK. We treat clients in the way we would want to be treated. We’re efficient, but direct and honest. We avoid the hard-nosed sales approach used by some agencies. For women, successful working relationships are about being with people who understand you and having a strong network of friends or family. Having someone to absolutely rely on is invaluable. Recently my daughter required a last minute operation, we love our business, although our children must also take a priority. Sarah Knight, the other Director was brilliant, she understood and covered my work to ensure our clients still continued to receive service as usual. The best thing about working as an independent company is that good ideas can be implemented quickly. Sarah and I took the conscious decision to make life easier for our families. We used to each spend two hours a day travelling to an office in the centre of Exeter. We located new offices at Darts Farm in fabulous surroundings and moved. Everyone loves the new location and we now have more time for our careers and families. Our future plans are to expand. We’ve,‘seen the green shoot’, so to speak. We’ll sit tight, and if the economy continues to grow we’ll take on more staff. I’m always happy to help other businesses and if anyone would like recruitment advice please don’t hesitate to email me at: celina@sarahwestrecruit.co.uk, call 01392 873813 or check out the new website: www.sarahwestgroup.co.uk.
S AR AH
WEST R ECRU ITM ENT 01392 480 084
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
& TRAINING: 8 CV MUST HAVES This pull out is part of the Digby Digest GET THAT JOB series. Each week we publish articles and interviews from local business leaders and trainers to help readers to GET THAT JOB. [Also available as a downloadable podcast see www.digby-digest.com]
8 CV MUST HAVE’s. Imagine your CV is similar to a leaflet coming through your letterbox. You pick it up; unless you see something in the first few seconds of interest to you then you tend to throw it away without a second thought. These points will help to make sure your CV isn’t thrown away without an interview.
Your CV includes: ‘I took phone calls and messages’. Adjust your CV: ‘While working for ‘Well-Known Restaurant’ I frequently received calls from customers and suppliers. I would take enquiries, book tables and deal with any customer complaints. I always ensured all customers were dealt with politely and efficiently. I took down the details of customer and supplier queries. If the query required further information I would call back when a satisfactory outcome was achieved’. Or if writing in the third person perhaps: ‘Accomplished customer services professional with ability to multi-task and deal with all forms of customer contact’. Never leave an employer with doubt about your abilities. TWO: ‘DOES IT LOOK GOOD’? Design your CV so it is easy for the employer to find the information they are looking for. Most recruiters scan your CV for 30 seconds at most. Using headings and bold format for the most relevant areas of your CV will keep their attention for longer. Use a clean design. If your CV is cluttered with lots of tabs/indentations and different size fonts, this can be confusing.
ONE: ‘HIT THE TARGET’ Adjusting your CV for every position you apply for will double your interview success rate. Aim your CV to the job you’re applying for with only relevant information about yourself. If it isn’t targeted to the position then it is the same as sending a special offer for driving lessons to someone who has already passed their test. Look at the person specification, job description and company information. What are they really looking for most? Repeat the key requirements in your CV. If you are applying for a customer services position within a call centre and you’ve worked for a restaurant for the last two years. Maximise your CV to show the employer you are what they are looking for? If you do not, they will see ‘Waiter’ and forget the excellent customer service experience you have. Make sure all the employer is asking for is included on your CV. EXAMPLE: Job Spec reads: ‘You will answer incoming calls ensuring all customers are dealt with efficiently and to a satisfactory conclusion’.
If the job description points out it is important to be accurate and detailed, then ensure you provide enough information without spelling mistakes. Spelling mistakes are like custard stains on a crisp white shirt: – obviouse ande repellin’. There’s nothing wrong with experimenting with different layouts and having various CV’s for different occasions. [Links to examples of both are included at the end of this article and on the website].
trained [even for short periods]. What budgets were you responsible for and how much? How much of your position was self led? If you were left to shut down the tills, cash up and close the shop, this evidences a level of trust and shared responsibility. Give a short description of your last company if it’s relevant or the company is not well known. The fact you are working for the only or first company within the area which stocks/does X can be a benefit to you. FOUR: CAN YOU PROVE IT? Use active/descriptive words. Advertisers use words like ‘new’ and ‘now’ to get the buyers attention. The same works with recruiters apart from they are attracted to evidence of your skills and competencies. ‘I deal with calls and take messages….’ doesn’t have the same impact as: I am responsible for all incoming and outgoing national and international calls. I field an average of 100 messages daily. Written in third person: Customer Services Operator with experience of international calls and achieving targets within high volume markets. ‘As a call-handler I had to sell the company’s priority products…’ is not the same as: I sold over fifty of the company’s top products weekly and achieved call-handler of the month on three occasions. Written in third person: High achiever with experience of converting incoming calls to sales. Ask yourself, friends, colleagues.. What’s different about me? What are my [USP’s] unique selling points?
If you are NEVER late for work and have taken no days sick, then highlight it. If you had a wonderful idea, which changed the company’s THREE: ‘THE FOOD LOOKS GOOD, BUT working procedures, tell your potential new HOW DOES IT TASTE?’ employer. A great layout will stop the recruiter from rejecting the CV without a second glance, but good content secures you the interview. Provide useful information to help sell your skills and experience. Employers like staff to be competent, have an ability to take on more responsibility and grow within the role. If you’re good at communication, describe how. EXAMPLE: ‘I gave presentations to groups of up to 40 people every week’. INCLUDE: What were you solely responsible for? How many people did you manage? If not how many new people have you mentored or
In performance reviews/annual appraisals – what did the company concentrate on? This is a good place to start when looking for active words and the key areas defining your good performance. Remember to include the level and scale – ‘I am responsible for all staff’, isn’t impressive if you were the only one. ‘I supervise eleven team leaders and seventy staff in the areas of security, administration and logistics’ clarifies your level and responsibility within the company.
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
8 CV MUST HAVES
[Cont’d]
EXAMPLE: The benefits of employing me over Joanne Bloggs are:
How have you ... ..saved the company money or time? ..improved productivity, quality or safety within the company? How did you contribute to the best day/week/ month the company ever had or the best event/ promotion? GET excited about your work life. If you feel excited, you’ll sound excited and enthusiastic. Then you’ll get an interview. Few employers want to employ bored, miserable, ‘Mr and Miss Been There Done That’. If that’s how you feel, then go back to basics. [See website for archive articles entitled ‘What Now?’] Using measured active words will give you extra evidential points: EXAMPLES: Achieved, ensured, delivered, am responsible for, led, exceeded, implemented, improved, introduced, initiated, saved, reduced, increased, managed. (A full list can be found under ‘Active Words’). FIVE: ‘WHY SHOULD THE EMPLOYER CARE?’ You’ve designed your CV with expertise, you’ve described exactly what you did, how much of and when. Most CVs get to this stage of their selling function and then STOP. If you were a product the potential buyer is now saying, “Why should I care? – So you were responsible for seventy people, so what! I’ve got an application from someone who is responsible for supervising two-hundred”. Recruitment processes are harsh, don’t take it personally, just provide them with the next bit….ie the potential benefits to them if they hire you instead!
If your talents lie in IT and you introduced a new system to the branch, which was later taken on nationwide, explain why did the company adopt it. Did the new system improve service quality for customers? Did it save time? Did it save money? Was it easier to use and took less time to train new employees? How did it effect the company’s profit, security or feedback and customer satisfaction? EXAMPLE: Perhaps you feel: ‘I go to work, I do my job, I get on well with your colleagues and the boss never has cause to complain. They don’t pay me enough or give me any scope to do anymore than that’. There is something unique about everyone, you’ve just got to find it. Being a reliable, easy going, cheerful employee and good member of your team is just as important as introducing money saving ideas:
quicker. Apply for positions that don’t tick all the boxes and go for the interviews. You’ll sometimes find the company or role is better than you expected. Practice makes perfect and will also improve your interview techniques. You’re not committed to accepting a position, just because it is offered to you. EIGHT: ‘I’LL TAKE A ‘P’ PLEASE BOB’ Don’t leave the application till the last minute. The four P’s: Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. Filling in an application at the last minute, when you’ve had it for two weeks to complete it, is unlikely to get you an interview. Do a draft application, include all relevant information, evidence it, show it off in a clean easy to read design, re-read it, get feedback, make changes, make a wish, then send it. It’s as easy as that!
EXAMPLE: ‘I am a reliable member of the team. In three years I’ve never been late or regularly off sick. I meet new people everyday. Being able to communicate easily with all customers and colleagues helps me to achieve or surpass every target set by the management’. Written in third person: ‘A reliable member of the team who ensures deadlines are met and all communication is friendly, clear and efficient’. Employers need people who can fit into their working environment and don’t cause internal problems. Proving you are a good team player could be all it takes to get you an interview. Retention of good staff is one indirect way management cut costs. SIX: WHAT DO OTHER PEOPLE THINK? Get someone else to read your CV and give you feedback. If you don’t have anyone unbiased to read it, get your CV to a good recruitment agency. If they’re not popping at the seams to interview you, ask them why. [See– Quick Guide to: getting the best out of a recruitment agency] SEVEN: ‘IT’S A NUMBERS GAME – YOU GOTTA BE IN IT TO WIN IT’ If you apply for one job you have one chance of getting interviewed. If you apply for 100 jobs you have 100 chances. Increasing the amount of applications you make will increase your number of interviews. Obviously, this will help you to find a new job
REMEMBER: Once you’ve sent your CV/job application move on to the next. Putting all your hopes in one basket could increase your anxiety when the interview does come your way. Lastly, some of the links and sites we’ve researched before putting this article together are listed below. LINKS: This site has a similar way of thinking and some good articles to explore: http://www.cv-masterclass.com/freereads-article003.html Common CV mistakes from a CV Masterclass site. http://www.cv-masterclass.com/freereads-article001.html Different types of CV’s. Functional CV’s, Chronological CV’s: http://www.bradleycvs.co.uk/cv-writing-tips/cvformat.htm CV Samples from About.com http://jobsearch.about.com/od/cvsamples/a/ blsamplecv.htm A PDF: Advice from the Job Centre regarding job search and CV’s from Job Centre Plus. http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/stellent/ groups/jcp/documents/sitestudio/dev_015519. pdf More advice on CV’s from Total Jobs http://www.totaljobs.com:80/Content/CVs_ and_Job_Applications.html?WT.srch=1
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
A LAST POINT & HOMEWORK
THE the last secret to successful job searching this week is to ask yourself –
Take too much into consideration and the issue becomes complex - it shouldn’t be.
[if not see the links and archive article on putting together a CV].
Do I REALLY want a new job/career/or even to work? Of course you do, right?
From this moment on it is time to become your own recruitment agency. Try to take the emotion out of the situation. Separate your working life from your personal life and it’s time to think of your working self as the i-product.
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What hours are you available to work ? Part or full-time?
Already, you could be cringing at the coldness and lack of empathy in this statement, but too much emotion and a sentimental approach to job search can make the difference between success and failure.
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Does this fit with my career?
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What salary do I require or need?
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What sacrifices must I make or are willing to make for the right position?
Would you move? Would you work extra unsociable hours for no pay in order to get a job done?
Job searching can be an emotional thing. The average full-time job, with door-to door travel time takes up 41% of our waking life . Understandably when we start to job search our whole lives are taken into account: ➢
Will I be happy?
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How long is the travel time?
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What will I be paid?
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Does it fit around the kids?
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Who will I be working with?
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Is the job exciting/enjoyable enough?
Think of your personal self as the seller and the working self as the product.
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What are the career prospects/benefits?
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What is your product?
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What are your skills? [If you’re unsure see the article/links on identifying your skill base].
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Do you have a Curriculum Vitae - CV
All of these questions will narrow down your options. Having options will give you extra confidence, leverage for negotiation and of course a job.
You’re not being asked to throw it out of the window as later these qualities will come back into the frame. TIME TO GET A PEN ..
FX PHOTOGRAPHY FOR PRECIOUS MOMENTS
TEL: 0845 691 691
Important questions, but not related to you, the i-product:
Finding out more about yourself and your motivations will help you to convince a new employer that you’re the best for the job, and you are. Aren’t you!
NEXT WEEK: Reviews of the best local agencies to go to and The Start Up Guide for an Online Home Business.
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
IT’S NOT THE BUSINESS SECTION Warning: Articles include author opinions, and are not necessarily the opinions of Digby Digest.
EVERY FRIDAY IN YOUR DIGBY DIGEST
FOR PREVIOUS IT’S NOT THE BUSINESS SECTION ARTICLES PLEASE SEE
www.digby-digest.com
________________________________________________________________________________
THE SUMMER OF WANING LOVE,
TELL ME MORE, TELL ME MORE, LIKE DOES HE HAVE A HEALTH SCHEME? by Julia O’Shaughnessy ______________________________________ IT may well seem like two-thousand years since Obama took his questionably rightful place as King of the free world, but it has indeed only been eight months. The once hip and cool mannered President is falling in popularity. He still wears the right jeans and looks good in sports kit but if you’re listening to the gospel of Gallup, his job-approval rating has fallen to 51%. Post-war, rarely has an icon of the enamoured fallen so quickly from grace unless, of course, we include Gerald Ford or Bill Clinton. What has the smart-mouthed Chicago lawyer done to deserve it? The rightwing bangs have joined forces with the Judas media to undermine the President. Oh Lordy be. Republicans cry out for the unheard voices of their down-syndrome son’s who could be sentenced to death with the nationalisation of their health care system. Yet currently, a healthy white teenager with a fractured toe and health insurance can take priority over an uninsured black pregnant woman in agony. Across the channel in our own postcode lottery we wait to catch the latest flu from America, with baited breath. His other priority, the education of the nations children has been met with cries of, ‘indoctrination’, when really ‘hard work’ is the only prescription he is offering. Combined with these attacks Obama has other problems to think about. Like fickle five year olds the interests of the ever-important independents are waning. Writing in the National Journal the ‘prophet’ Charlie Cook, a respected analyst, has observed voting for Mr Obama decreasing from 60-70% to the mid 40’s, and says, ‘the Democrats should be terrified’, with ‘the mid-term elections’ approaching in fourteen months time. However, just when all seems bleak, Frank Newport, the editor-in-chief of
Gallup adds some common sense to the panic pie. He states true independents are few, some 10-12% of the final voting figures and Obama’s rating still stays close to the national average of 55%. Like any new business the first year is a lousy guide to the final fortunes. Ronald Regan and Bill Clinton faced similar ‘economic difficulties’ in their first year, but both were re-elected to a second term in office. George Bush was highly popular in his first year and more so after the Gulf war of 1991, but lasted no more than a single term. Flanked on all sides Obama faces similar problems to the Clintons, which many feel sure
was due to their failure to pass health reform - a mistake Obama seems intent to learn from.
Another theory is that the Clinton’s allowed the party to move too far to the left. Inefficient ‘vetting’ is blamed for allowing Van Jones to occupy the role as White House Adviser on green jobs. The same Van Jones who signed a petition to say Bush not only knew about September 11th prior to the attacks, but that he did nothing to prevent them to ensure the pubic support for, ‘a war on terrorism’. A promise is nothing until it is delivered and a sales pitch is just that a sales pitch. Will Obama’s tear-jerking passionate and ever intelligent speeches be backed up with the promised change or, like the promised land and ‘messiah’ before him will his people turn at the last minute and order his crucifixion?
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
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Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
DIGBY ROUND-UP Appeal for witnesses
Police are appealing for witnesses to an assault involving local youths. Two young girls aged 13 are believed to have had an argument over problems at school. Then two 16 year olds joined in, holding down one of the girls whilst the other assualted her. The older girls believed to be from the Burnt House Lane area fled the scene when a couple walking their dog intervened. The incident happened at around 4pm Wednesday, May 19 in Heavitree Park. Anyone who witnessed the assualt or has any information is asked to Contact PC Tooze on 08452 777444.
Local Expert goes batty about bats
RESIDENT bat enthusiasts are to enjoy a talk from a leading expert. Sue Searle says: “Bats are really misunderstood by most people. In the last 100 years their numbers have suffered massive declines. “During my talk I will give insights as to what I do as a professional bat worker. People will be able to hear what they sound like and see some bats aswell”.
Advice to be seen and safe
Alternative therapy fair
National statistics show child pedestrians and cyclists, aged up to 15, are most likely to be killed and seriously injured in Britain’s roads between 3pm and 4pm.
The Mind Body Spirit Fair takes place at Exeter Castle from 10am to 4pm.
WITH the onset of darker evenings, children are being urged by Devon County Council to wear reflective and fluorescent clothing.
In Devon three child pedestrians and four child cyclists were seriously injured last year, but none fatally. “Children are vulnerable on our roads, especially at this time of year,” said Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highways and transportation.
CLAIRVOYANTS, alternative therapists and crystal experts will be among those at an event in Exeter city centre today.
There will be workshops on alternative health therapies and a number of stalls selling everything from books to pagan artefacts. Numbers are expected to be large, so please arrive early. Admission £2 for adults and free for children.
He added: “It’s vitally important that cyclists and pedestrians wear reflective gear during the autumn and winter months.” Advice includes: • Wear fluorescent clothing in daylight and at dusk. Reflective vests and wristbands are easiest to see. • Always use the green cross code – find the safest place to cross, at a well lit and marked crossing point. Stop, look and listen.
The event takes place 7.30pm November 7 at the Church Rooms, School Lane. Admission will be £3 and refreshments available. To book a place call 01392 682401 or please turn up.
Pupils hurdle to impress NSPCC
THE children of St. David’s Primary School raised money for the NSPCC with a sponsored multi-activity session.
DO YOU THINK THERE SHOULD BE COMPETITION FOR STAGECOACH?
The school has 105 pupils, but raised £972 by hurdling, hopping, skipping, and running.
Published Express & Echo 7/11/09 - see later clipping for individual photos.
Charlie Francis, the local NSPCC/Childline School’s Co-ordinator congratulated the school and added: “How impressed I am with all the childrens efforts”.
Ninety year old Brownie’s re-join group
EX-BROWNIES are being called to a reunion by a young Exeter Brownie. Eight year old Sophie Brown is a member of the 2nd Exeter Brownies. The movement is approaching it’s 90th anniversary and Sophie would like ex-members to contact her. The Brown Owl leaders have given Sophie and her group the challenge to organise a talk about what it was like to be a Brownie decades ago. Anyone interested in joining in or helping out should email Sophie’s Mother, helen.burden@thomsomreuters.com
Life-size bear raises £5,000 for charities
WOODY Bear will be touring the locality to raise money and awareness for several key charities.
Shirley Holland 35 of Kings Heath Exeter. “I do use the buses, but I prefer the trains, they’re cheaper and quicker. A competitor would help them think about their customer service and prices.”
Westcountry Team estate agents launched the Woody Bear Appeal last week.
Ken Wood, 65 retired, of Dunkeswell, said: “We travel to the big Tesco in Exeter. The buses to us are non-existent and a taxi to Honiton to catch a bus to Exeter is £20. I wish there were more competitors.”
Woody will be busy in the run up to Christmas.
Anne-Marie Lorenzo, 41, a full-time mother, from Sydney, Australia, said: “I’m from Topsham originally. The bus is cheaper than in Sydney. I’m happy with the service. I think more competitors would clog the roads.” Byron Carnell, 65 retired, from Dawlish, said: “I’ve got grandchildren and we can’t afford to take more than two out with us for they day. It’s £2.30 for them each. We’re in desperate need of competition.”
In his first outing he raised £2,500 for Macmilan Cancer Support and Help for Heroes.
Already planning to attend the Family Service at Buckfast Abbey and to assist Micheal Caines make christmas puddings at Darts Farm in Topsham. Funds raised will be shared between registered charities: Families for Children, All Star Kids, Jeremiah’s Journey, the Children’s Trust, CLIC Sergeant and Blythswood. Parents and children interested in the seeing Woody can obtain his tour schedule from either www.woodybear.co.uk or by calling 01364 336633.
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
JULIA’S FUN ON A SHOESTRING BUDGET BLOG
Eleven luggage bags, seven adults, four kids, three cars and a dog! ‘Ey up all, star date the first Friday in June 2010 and we’re all here! First assignment this year and with the unusually warm weather is there a better place to go than the good ole United of K. As I say, eleven luggage bags, seven adults, four kids, three cars and a dog! The journey took a mere two hours, through the rain, but I’ve been assured that’s what camping’s all about. The main aim of this weeks blog is to give you a few highlights and ideas of what to snog, marry and avoid when taking budget holidays in the UK. I apologise I’ve said camping, but I actually mean caravaning. Somewhere there’s probably a severe line drawn in the sand between the two and I’d hate to insult more than a windbreaker full of people. The main similarity to me seems to be the fact both groups drive hours away from their warm and secure homes to battle with not much between them and the elements. Bracing! I love that word, it conjures up images of war time hero’s, cold winds and stubborn courageous pursuits. Anyhow, moving on, the weather is actually quite beautiful for the time of year and I’d like to say a quick thanks to India for sending us
some of their summer. Duck, here comes a plug. We’re actually staying at Twichen holiday camp in Woolacombe, North Devon. My first tip to all pet owners would be - don’t tell them you have a dog. We’ve booked two caravans and at the last minute half of us have been moved to the other end of the campsite in the ‘BUDGET’ caravans. Not good. Rust, dust and the smell of damp dog welcomed us, right after the very grumpy Receptionist did not. After a cold night - there’s no radiators in the BUDGET caravans - a glorious 5;30am sunrise had me up, showered and ready for action. Half of us, the younger have gone to the beach, the other half have gone shopping, and one of us has found a wi-fi site two miles away and is blogging, so she can meet her print deadline guess who got the best deal, lol :D The papers are full of photos of fields full of snow last year and the russet reds and golden oranges of the leaves this year, the views here are no different and it is stunning. So, grumpy receptionists aside the place is a haven for mending the soul, as far as caravaning can be utilised in this way.
AN INDIAN SUMMER MAYBE, BUT I’M KEEPING HOLD OF MY WOOLIES Excuse the spelling and randomness of this weeks blog, I’ve Got to make it short and sweet as I’ve had to pay a couple of quid to use the internet for an hour. The ‘Waves’ Studio is quickly filling up with kids who don’t mind poking me because they want to use my table to paint pottery - another usage for this cafe. Oh, and I’ve got to walk the dog before the others return, lovely. Have a great half term week everyone, next time I’m going to bounce down memory lane in Bogna! Twichen Holiday Camp, Station Road, Woolacombe, North Devon, Tel: 01271 870 343.
SKINNERS TRAVEL BECAUSE DREAMS DO COME TRUE
01392 408 444
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
KIDS CORNER: BOBBY’S WALK FOR HOSPICE EACH WEEK BOBBY THE DIGBY DIGEST BEAR GOES TO A LOCAL FAMILY TO PHOTOGRAPH A PART OF HIS ADVENTURE. FOR EVERY PHOTO STORY WE PUBLISH DIGBY DIGEST WILL GIVE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE £100. THIS WEEK BOBBY WENT TO SEE JAMES WEBB. JAMES IS IN YEAR ONE AND HELPED TO MAKE UP THE STORY THIS WEEK TOO. WELL DONE JAMES. IF YOUR FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO TAKE PART PLEASE EMAIL YOUR CONTACT DETAILS TO THE EDITOR. editor@digby-digest.co.uk
Bobby and James fought off the Dragon and freed the Princess. Now what can we do?
“I’ve found you James”, said Mum, “..but where’s Bobby gone?”
Then they climbed up the slide to rescue the Princess from the Dragon. It was really slippy. Today Bobby is at James house. As soon as James got Bobby home he took him on the trampoline.
Mum could tell they were going to be little devils... “I know”, said James, “Let’s play hide and seek. You count Mum”.
Here he is, and he’s made a new friend too. “Don’t forget my BMW Z4 this year please Santa!” says Mum.
It’s the end of the day. “Dinner time”, says James. Bobby’s happy, “Salmon salad, every bears favourite. YUM!”
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
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Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________ Work on hotel delayed again
PLANS to refurbish a popular city hotel have again been “delayed’ and it will now not reopen in autumn 2010 as planned. The Hotel Barcelona is owned by Swire Hotels, which is also in the process of refurbishing a number of other hotels across the UK. “Work was due to begin on the Hotel Barcelona earlier this year”, said the company’s representative Natalie Hewlett. “Due to some delays on our other projects the schedule of work has been delayed.”
Craft fair offers festive gift ideas
UNUSUAL and unique Christmas presents were on offer at a craft fair this weekend. There was also the opportunity to meet the people who made them. The fair for present hunters, held at Killerton House, near Broadclyst featured more than 30 stalls in the main house, stable block, discovery centre and laundry.
A planning application to make revisions to the spa building has been passed and Ms Hewlett added, “We are still fully committed to the refurbishment of the hotel.
Denise Melhuish, the National Trust property’s assistant manager said: “Local hand-made produce on sale included such diverse goods as jewellery, gothic mirrors, pottery, art work, silk scarves and textiles, stained glass, gift cards, wooden crafts and much, much more.
“We are in discussion with a number of contractors ahead of undertaking a formal tender process.
“The craft fair is a great chance to find really unusual presents and to meet the people who made them.”
“We hope it won’t take much longer than a year to reopen after building work actually does begin.”
To find out more about future events at Killerton, visit telephone 01392 881345
Exeter will be hosting the 2009 Young Enterprise Christmas Trade Fair.
Students run central Christmas Trade Fair
A prime location in the city will be provided by Exeter City Council to students wishing to test out and market their products. The experience will give the young students an opportunity to learn about marketing, promotion, and sales in preparation for the regional and national finals.
FREE bereavement advice will be given by a solicitor at a talk in a Devon resort. Grainne Staunton, from Tozers Solicitors, Teignmouth is leading the discussion and answering questions in her talk entitled After You’ve Gone. It will give help with the practicalities of bereavement.
Paul Fluck, from the organizers, Teignmouth Senior Council said: “When a loved one dies, people are often confused about what to do first and who to contact. “They can be unsure about whether to contact the undertake first or obtain a death certificate. “Knowing in advance which organizations and people to notify can help people at a difficult time”. The talk takes place at the Carlton Theatre, Teignmouth on Friday, November 20, from 1.30pm. Refreshments will be available. For further details, call Mr Fluck on 01626 772909
New scheme helps young people into conservation
Castle hosts fine art date
THREE trainees hve joined a new scheme run by a local wildlife charity which helps get young people a career in conservation.
HISTORIC paintings of Westcountry scenes will be among the attractions at an antiques fair this month.
The three new staff will join Devon Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves officers for six months plus.
The Powderham Castle Antiques & Fine Art Fair runs from Friday November 20 to Sunday, November 22.
Trainee, Liz Fishbourne said: “I’m loving it already, the Devon Wildlife Trust has such a variety of habitats to manage.
Exhibits start from less than £30 to more than £10,000.
The Lord Mayor will be presenting an award, supplied by Communication Station, for the best trade stand.
“I should get a fantastic understanding and experience of practical habitat management through the scheme.”
Young Enterprise is a national education charity which aims to inspire and equip young people to learn through enterprise.
They will all receive essential professional training including first aid, chainsaw and brushcutter use.
In Devon the main programme involves 15-19year olds setting up and running their own business for a year.
Their trainer Edric Hopkinson was happy to comment and said: “This new scheme is a great way for young people with conservation qualifications, but without on the ground experience to find a job with one of the region’s conservation organisations.
This year twenty companies are running with 300 students taking part.
Bereavement advice offered
“They also provide essential extra hands to help with the many jobs on our reserves, keeping them in the best possible condition for the wildlife that thrives on them.” They have been offered free accommodated on the Woodah Farm in the Teign Valley just before the new team were also put through their paces at DWT reserves at Haldon and near great Torrington. Training covered scrub and woodland management for butterflies at Hawkswood, near Honiton. Further information can be obtained for future applications from 01392 279244.
The fair will be open from 11am to 5pm each day. Admission is £5.
Luxury gifts to be raffled LUXURY gifts have ben donated by a host of shops on Magdelen Road, Exeter, for beauty salon Zamora’s Little Black Dress fundraising evening. Raffle proceeds will be donated to the cancer charity Force. The event, on Friday, November 13, starts at 5pm to 8pm. Tickets cost £5. Details from www.zamoraonline.co.uk or phone 01392 273040.
Media firm give young pupils media training PUPILS from Newton St Cyres Primary will be receiving media training on how to make a television advert.
Classes 3 and 4 will meet with Hannah Vincent a TV and Film Producer from Pangea. The training will take place at 11am on Wednesday, November 11. Schools wishing to take part in the scheme should contact Pangea TV on www.pangprod.com. or phone 01392 851267.
Friday June 4 2010 ________________________________________________________________________________
Tributes to heroic wartime engineer BY JULIA O’SHAUGHNESSY
TRIBUTES have been paid to an army engineer who built temporary bridges in the aftermath of the 1968 Devon floods and was awarded the Military Cross for his Second World War exploits. Major General Marston Tickell, of Branscombe, who has died aged 85, won his MC in 1945. He later served as Chief of Staff in Northern Irelance. Sallie Herniman, churchwarden of Branscombe’s St Winifred’s Church, has know Maj Gen Tickell for 20 years. She said: “Marston was a pillar of the community. He got on with everybody and was always there for people who needed counsel or advice. He worked tirelessly for the Freinds of St winifred’s and the Royal British Legion. It was a terrible shock for everyone and I doubt there will be too many more people like him”. John Pentreath, county manager of the Royal British Legion said: “He was recently described as a wonderful man who will be sorely missed by the members of his legion branch”. Maj Gen Tickell’s time in Northern Ireland saw the first British soldier killed, internment, Bloody Sunday and operations to end the no-go areas of Belfast and Londonderry. Restoring security in the two main cities was highly exacting, but Maj Gen Tickell succeeded with calm, meticulous planning and decisive execution. He was then made a CBE. The elder son of the late Major-General Sir Eustace Tickell, he was commissioned into the Sappers. He commanded a platoon in 100 (Royal Monmouthshire) Field Company RE in the final year of hte campaign in north-west Europe. his company was committed to a series of bridging operations - across the Orne, the Seine, the Meuse and the Rhine, where his regiment built the first British bridge.
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SORELY MISSED: Major-General Marston Tickell
In September 1946, he was granted a place to read mechanical science at Cambridge. He gained a first-class honours degree and ws then persuaded to stay on for a further course in engineering. He was awarded another first. After spells at the School of Military Engineering, in Germany and at the Staff College, he spent two years in the military operations branch of the Ministry of Defence, a demanding job for which he was appointed MBE. In 1957, Maj Gen Tickell took command of 23 Field Squadron in Libya and accompanied it to Cyprus. There were then teaching posts at the Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham and at the Staff College. In 1968 there were serious floods in Somerset and Devon and 12 Engineer Brigade, of which Maj Gen Tickell had taken command, constructed eight military bridges within two days to replace those washed away. In 1972 he was promoted to Major-General and appointed engineer-in-chief, the professional head of the Royal Engineers. His final appointment was as commandant of the Royal Military College of Science. He retired in 1978. He married the daughter of Vice-Admiral Arthur Read, Pamela, in 1961. She survives him.
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ARTICLES IN PROGRESS: How to Get the Best Results from your Recruitment Agency……… By Celina West Director of Sarah West Recruitment in Exeter Job seeking can be a fulltime job in itself – using an reputable Recruitment Agency can help you minimise the amount of time you spend on your job search. Here are some brief pointers in how to get the most out of your relationship with your recruitment agency 1.Invest some time prior to contacting agencies – - prepare your CV – Make sure it is concise and easy to read with your key skills and responsibilities for each job clearly bullet pointed. A good recruitment consultant will spend time discussing your CV and will suggest any alterations or additions, in fact most will make the changes for you, when submitting your details to a client.
All and sundry - spend time thinking about what you really want to achieve in your career and the tasks you enjoy and those you would prefer to avoid. 2. Draw up a shortlist of agencies that you may like to work with – ask for recommendations from friends, look on some online job boards to
see who advertises the types of roles that you are interested in. Look at the websites of different agencies and the types of jobs that they have. 3. I would recommend registering with no more than 3 or 4 agencies, and would never recommend just sending your CV to all and sundry. Expect to attend a face to face interview to allow the consultant to really get to know you and understand what you are looking for. This is your opportunity to ask the consultant to explain what they will do for you and to gain a good understanding of the companies they work with. A good consultant, in addition to submitting you for current vacancies, will also look at ‘creating’ a role for you by contacting other companies they have worked for in the past and talking to decisions makes about you and what you could offer the company. 4. Never feel pressurised to apply for a role you are not interested in. 5. Be open minded about different industries you may not have considered before and realistic about your skills and experience and how they match the jobs you apply for. 3. Once you have agreed upon jobs you are interested in and you have been selected for interview, ask for details about what format the interview will take, who will be interviewing
you and if there is anything you should prepare to take with you. A professional consultant will know his or her client well and be able to give you some tips on the best way to approach the interview. 4. Lastly, but most importantly, like all relationships, you only get out what you put in – so take time to stay in touch with your consultant, return all calls and emails in a timely manner. Good luck in the job search! If you would like one to one advice please call Celina West on 01392 873813.