Sherwood Newsletter March 2013 by Dianne Carter

The Sherwood Monthly Community Newsletter

FREE Indoor entertainment section Sponsored by:

Competition to win tickets to the Sherwood Pines June Summer Concert featuring top 70’s pop band

Blondie.

See inside for details of how to enter

March 2013 Volume No: 06 Issue: 03 ---------------------

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Distribution to 50,000 Sherwood Residents in Blidworth, Ravenshead, Rainworth, Farnsfield, Edingley Halam, Bilsthorpe, Edwinstowe. Information online at: www.sherwoodcommunitynewsletter.co.uk The Editor. Tel: 07916 245 367 Email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk

2 Hello from The Sherwood Newsletter Editor: Diane Carter and Sub Editor: Andy Jones both local residents with local businesses!

Inside this issue: Introductions & Invitation to Get Involved

News and Information

Looking Good Feeling great

6-7

Our Young and Our Future

House and Home

9-10

Caring in our Community

at winning our great Blondie tickets!

Marathon Media; Building Local Businesses

12-14

And don’t forget please use the businesses that advertise within this

FREE Indoor entertainment section

15-17

What’s On

18-21

The Rainworth Reporter

23-24

The Blidworth Focus

25-27

The Village Voices

Ravenshead News

Strengthening Communities

More Local News

Well it is Sunday 17th February and finally the sun has come out and what a beautiful day. Having just taken my dog Candy for a lovely stroll around Tippings Wood I am reminded how great life can be with the simple things in life. Fresh air, lovely countryside and the nicest thing I saw was a young family enjoying a picnic by the pond. So I hope the sun is shining when you receive this so you can sit in your garden and enjoy all the great local news and information. Even have a go

magazine – without them we wouldn’t be able to offer this great community newsletter.

Thanks Diane Carter Editor

We B ea any t Quo te

Competition to Win Blondie concert tickets at Sherwood Pines this Summer. See later in this issue for details of how to enter.

V.I.P. Ticket

 Business Owners?  Made redundant?  Local resident? FREE entry available see page 13 East Midlands Action -4- Business Exhibition DEADLINES for LOCAL NEWS and FEEDBACK contributions to The Sherwood Newsletter

Reasons to use Rydale Paving see page 10

www.sherwoodcommunitynewsletter.co.uk Advertising call: 07916 245 367 email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk Edited, Produced and Distributed by MARATHON MEDIA

Thank you to those who keep emailing regarding local news, events and feedback. Please address to the Editor; email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk. Postal address available on request. Deadline for news articles for the next edition is Friday 12th of March. Please keep sending information so we can keep the newsletter ‘hot and fresh’! Advert requests and payments by Friday 12th of March. Any feedback or news must be supported by name & address, that can be withheld on request. Contact: Diane, Editor: 07916 245 367.

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Sherwood News and Information

Mark spencer Article :

It has been encouraging recently to be able to report some good news on our relationship with Europe and the Prime Minister’s decision to offer a referendum has been met with pretty broad enthusiasm. Whatever our respective views on the EU, we can now at least say that come the next election, any voter voting Conservative will be voting to have their say on our future in Europe. This is an exciting step and while I can hardly say the issue has been nipped in the bud – Britain has been increasingly restless on the subject for the last 10 years – at last our future relationship with Europe will not be decided on in Westminster but rather where it matters, in ballot boxes up and down this country and I’m proud that it was a Conservative Government who finally committed to offering that choice. I know when it comes to Europe, we all tend to have quite a fatalistic approach – I suspect depending on your paper you will probably be a straight ‘In’ or ‘Out’ but I am keen that everyone understands how complex the issue is so that when we all (hopefully) get to the ballot box, our decision is informed either way. Where do I stand? Well personally I’d call myself a Eurosceptic – I think Brussels interferes too much in our affairs and I have been frustrated so many times when we have played by the rules only for our

neighbours to flout them- and if it came to a straight vote today, with no changes or renegotiations, I’d vote to get us out. That does not mean however that I believe that Europe has nothing to offer us and I would like to see what the Prime Minister can negotiate on our behalf before closing the door completely. If we can negotiate a fresh deal with Europe that really benefits us, then I think there may be a case worth considering. The Prime Minister has already shown he’s capable of negotiating tough deals as he proved when he managed to achieve the first ever EU multi-annual budget cut, reducing the amount the EU can spend over the next 7 years by €80 billion. David Cameron also managed to keep the hard fought for British rebate despite various attempts to undermine it. Of course this is good news and for the first time in a long time we have a Government resisting Europe’s hold rather than driving us further into the fold. For many of you, a more distant, renegotiated relationship will not be sufficient and I understand that. The referendum will be an opportunity to make your opposition clear and that is a positive thing, I only ask that we all take the time to properly think through the consequences of our actions before casting that vote. So I’ve got to make my mind up too! There will be a lot to consider over the coming years – Europe has a role in so many aspects of our lives that

withdrawal will not be clean or simple and needs to be fully considered one way or the other. Bring on the debate! If, as ever, you have a view on this or there’s anything else you want to raise with me, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line at: Mark.Spencer.MP@Parliament.uk. For more info or to arrange an interview with Mark, contact: Madeleine Burns, office: 0115 968 1186, Email: Madeleine.burns@parliament.uk

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Our Young and Our Future Spectacular Evenings of Dance The Joseph Whitaker School’s two ‘Evenings of Dance’ in February were a spectacular success – and it was all down to the students’ hard work! The talented dancers performed in groups, solos and House ensembles,

Children’s Book Review:

What Happens when... What happens to all the things that we lose or let go? The balloon that ﬂoats off into the sky, the sock that slides behind the radiator, the bucket swallowed by waves or our shadows when the sun goes down? In the unique style of French graphic designer Delphine Chedru, this book encourages the early reader to imagine all sorts of items that have disappeared out of sight. Provoking joyful curiosity, each page opens out to reveal one of a myriad of possibilities limited only by the imagination. Publisher: Tate Gallery Publishing (7 Mar 2013)

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House and Home Reluctant Gardener: March

• At Last spring is in the air! Less Snow more

Sunshine and a little more warmth to go gardening. • Gear up to plant new plants that you have reared from seed or bought from the nursery. • Start to feed the lawn, sow grass seed in bare spots and aerate with a fork. • Pot plants should be re-potted with new compost and watered in. • If you want to lift and divide perennials, this is the time to do so. • Snip away at pruning roses, lavender bushes, late-flowering shrubs and climbing ivy. • Plant summer-flowering bulbs now. Any winter hyacinth grown in pots can be potted out into borders. • Fertilizer can be applied to borders and roses. • Prepare vegetables like shallots, onion sets and early potatoes • Protect new spring shoots from slugs - especially if the start of spring is wet • Top dress containers with fresh compost and look out for unwanted signs of pests like vine weevil. • Consider a first mow of the lawn on a dry day, but only if the grass needs it - beware of late frosts. • Cut back Cornus (dogwood) and Salix (willow) grown for

colourful winter stems.

• Weeds will start to wake up - deal with them before they get out of hand

• Look out for frog spawn in the pond and avoid any cleaning of

debris as this will put off frogs amorous activities. Start feeding fish and using the pond fountain to aerate the water and if you have them, remove pond heaters. • Open the greenhouse or conservatory doors and vents on warm days and get ready to put away the heaters. Enjoy the start of spring - Andy

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Caring in our Community HOW ARE YOU PLANNING TO PAY FOR LONG-TERM CARE? The funding of long-term care is becoming a major political issue, but for many families it is already a burning personal issue. It is estimated that more than 20,000 a year are forced to sell their homes to pay for care (Source: www. adviceoncare.co.uk – January 2012) and that number could be on the increase given rising care costs. Some people do get state help. Depending on your income you may get state help, although a person who owns his or her home is likely to fail the local authority means test and be deemed a “selffunder”. In England, this threshold is £23,250 which has been frozen until 2013 (in Wales it is £23,250 and in Scotland £24 750,) (Source: www.caretobedifferent. co.uk- October 2012). In most cases this includes the value of any property owned. However, there are circumstances in which the family home is ignored: if you have a spouse or relative aged 60 or over still living in the home it will not be included within the local authority’s financial assessment. It should also be ignored if your care needs are classed as “temporary”. In addition, if your other assets, excluding the home, are less than £23,250, then you should not be charged for the first 12 weeks. Those in this situation can request that a legal charge is put on their home rather than selling it upfront. You need to be aware that not all benefits are means-tested. For example, people who need nursing care (as opposed to “personal care”) will receive a contribution towards these costs, regardless of their financial position. In England this is normally paid at £108 a week, with payments made direct to the nursing home. It is important to remember, however, that reliance on the state comes at the cost of choice of the care you receive. For many people the self-funding route is going to be their only option. It is a worrying prospect as the cost of care can quickly addup and eat into your savings. On average, someone who requires care in a residential care home will pay £524 per week, and for a nursing care home £722 per week (weighted averages for the whole of the UK, source Laing & Buisson Care of Elderly People

UK Market Survey 2011/12), a huge ongoing amount to find at any age, let alone in later years. However, these are averages across local authority funded and self funded care, many self funders will pay much more than these averages. It doesn’t take much to work out that you wouldn’t have to be in a care home for too long before you or your family had spent hundreds of thousands of pounds on paying fees. In the past, pre-funded care insurance plans were an option – aimed at those who think they might need to go into care in the future. But as it stands not one UK insurer provides pre-funded insurance today with the last provider exiting the market in 2010, citing lack of demand. Instead, perhaps the most popular option for paying for long-term care is an immediate care annuity, which pays a tax free fixed income for life, provided that it is paid directly to the care home provider. This can provide some certainty for people moving into care, as they know their fees will be guaranteed to be paid for life; their money will not run out and they will not have to move into a local authority-run home later. There is also the reassurance that whatever is left from the sale of the home, once the annuity has been bought, can be left to the next generation. The price depends on a person’s age and health when going into care – the longer the insurer expects them to live, the larger the upfront cost. Most providers, however, allow you to buy “capital protection”, which refunds part of the cost in such circumstances. You can also pay into plans that protect against inflation via escalating benefits. Many people fund this annuity when they sell their home. Of course, the downside is that if the person dies shortly after going into nursing care then you will have paid out more for the annuity than the cost of fees. It can seem a little bit of a gamble, but an annuity does provide security in that you know fees are covered for life. You could try to fund care fees out

of regular income – if you have the means to do so. For starters, if you are going into care and have no dependants, then your own property could be rented out and the rent used to offset the fees. Alternatively, with careful planning you could build an investment portfolio designed to pay an income without taking undue risk. You will need expert help because it is crucial that your capital is protected to a large degree. Again, just be aware that several years’ fees could quickly add up, so the balance and diversification of assets will have to be just right. We are all expected to live longer but while that is good news it is likely to mean that more people

will need to consider care fees – not just for themselves, but also for their parents. It is an issue that many baby boomers are dealing with at this very moment – and it is an issue that is unlikely to disappear. To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth Management, Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax Planning, produced by St. James’s Place Wealth Management, contact Mark Pennington, of Ryley Wealth Management Limited, Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place on 0115 905 1480, by email enquiries.rwmltd@sjpp. co.uk or visit www.ryleywm.co.uk

Marathon Media - Building Local Businesses NNN Meeting to be held on Tuesday 12th March 2013 Venue: Edwinstowe House Business Centre of Excellence, Edwinstowe.NG21 9PR Time: 7.30 am - 9 am Cost: £7, or £5 for first time visitors A warm invitation is offered to all SME businesses to come along to the relaxed and informal meeting on Tuesday 12th March The snow came down but this didn’t stop the NNN attendees from attending this friendly and informal networking group. After the light breakfast and coffee Chris Adkin of Adkin Sinclair Chartered Accounts offered a short presentation informing the audience on the issues related to the ABI business reporting activity Following Hannah Townsend Lic Ac MBAcC, of Southwell Acupuncture Clinic presented a very interesting talk entitled. ‘Traditional Acupuncture an Ancient therapy so very effective in the modern world.’ If you are a SME business in the Sherwood area or considering starting up your own business then this is the right group for you. If you wish to attend our relaxed, informal & friendly meeting contact: Chair: Diane Carter Tel: 07916 245 367 or email; diane@marathon-media.co.uk www.nononsensejustnetworking.wordpress.com See you there. Diane Carter Chair NNN

Diary Dates for Business Events March 2013 NNN Breakfast Networking

Tuesday 12th March Venue: Edwinstowe House, Edwinstowe. NG21 9PR Pay at the event but you must pre-book. Cost £7 or £5 for first time visitors Informal networking & business support for all SME businesses To book contact Diane Carter; Chair at diane@marathon-media. co.uk Visit www.nononsensejustnetworking.wordpress.com

IWB Ladies at Lunch

Thursday 21st March 12-2pm Venue: Westminster Hotel, 312 Mansfield Rd, Nottingham, NG5 2EF If you wish to attend please email Diane Carter, Chair at diane@marathon-media.co.uk Visit www.itswomensbusinessclub.co.uk

M2020 Business Breakfast

Thursday 28th March Venue: Mansfield Civic Centre, Chesterfield Rd, Mansfield NG19 7BH. Time: 7.15 – 9 am. To book: www.mansfield2020.com

A warm invitation is offered to all SME Business to attend the NNN Business Breakfast Group held on the 2nd Tuesday of every month Venue: The Garden Rooms, Edwinstowe House, Edwinstowe Date: Tuesday 12th March 2013 7.30am –9 am Release Your Business Potential in 2013 Through:• Effective business networking • Informal business introductions • Informative Presentations The NNN Support Team consisting of :• Chris Adkin of Adkin Sinclair Chartered Accountants • Russell Jones of Fidler & Pepper Solicitors • Trevor Morley of TM Finance & Management Services Ltd • Diane Carter of Marathon Media To book our next meeting in March contact:Chair; Diane Carter on: 07916 245 367 Or email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk Pay at the event but you must pre-book. Cost £7 or £5 for first time visitors Visit www.nononsensejustnetworking.wordpress.com

Marathon Media - Building Local Businesses

East Midlands Action- 4 -Business Exhibition Wednesday 27th March 2013 At the Lindhurst Rooms, Mansfield Civic Centre Chesterfield Road South, Mansfield. NH19 7BH 10am - 3pm

This high profile event is the flagship of many future High Life business exhibitions to come, offering a platform for East Midlands SME’s to both promote their companies and enjoy quality effective networking. With both informative and inspirational speakers, the day will be the highlight of the East Midlands Corporate Calendar for 2013.

Attendance for visitors if FREE so why not drop-in for a coffee or tea

and browse our wide selection of business stands or stay for the day FREE Prize Draws to win: Restaurant Meals - Concert Tickets - Bubbly - Chocolates and much more

V.I.P. Ticket  Business owners?  Made redundant?  Local resident?

Network with other East Midlands businesses. Starting up a new business? Abundant advice available for you. Find out what is happening in your area & get to meet the team behind The High Life.

East Midlands Action -4- Business Exhibition

Marathon Media - Building Local Businesses

East Midlands Action- 4 -Business Exhibition Agenda for the day 10am Doors Open VIP Packs for the first 30 entrants - containing gifts and vouchers Visit the stands and enjoy great networking opportunities Coffee & Tea available throughout the day Drop in or stay for the whole event 11am Marcus Kilvington Speaker: With over 20 years experience in Sales and Marketing and as a regular speaker for both NBV and The Hive, Marcus will be offering a presentation entitled: How to achieve your potential in business. Are you one of ONLY 3% of people that are open to learn new things, so you know how to be better than ever in 2013? Most of your competitors aren’t open to learn! So to be able to thrive and prosper like never before, you need to know certain POWERFUL information that they don’t.

12 - 1pm Lunch and Networking 1pm: Rehan Alam, Principal Trainer with NBV Enterprise Solutions ltd. Rehan will be offering a motivational presentation, entitled: Conﬁdent Networking for Business Success, talking about getting yourself into the right frame of mind for networking, common mistakes

made and how the world of technology has given us the opportunity to monetise your marketing using social media.

Lots more time for browsing the stands and Networking Don’t forget to enter the competitions to win great prizes EMA-4-B treasure hunt to win a meal for 4 at prestigious local restaurant sponsored by McGregors Corporate

Call Diane on 07916 245 367 Or simply book online:-

wwwthehighlifemagazine.eventbrite.com

or copy and paste into Google to go direct to the booking site.

Chosen charity for the event is Jigsaw

Sponsors Mansfield & Ashfield Shared Regeneration Project

Book Review:

Film Review:

Tell the Wolves I’m Home by Carol Rifka Brunt Out now. here’s only one person who has ever truly understood fourteen-year-old June Elbus, and that’s her uncle, the renowned painter, Finn Weiss. Shy at school and distant from her once inseparable older sister, June can only be herself in Finn’s company; he is her godfather, confident, and best friend. So when he dies far too young of a mysterious illness that June’s mother can barely bring herself to discuss, June’s world is turned upside down. At the funeral, she notices a strange man lingering just beyond the crowd, and a few days later, June receives a package in the mail. Inside is a beautiful teapot she recognizes from Finn’s apartment, and a note from Toby, the stranger, asking for an opportunity to meet. A the two begin to spend time together, June realises she’s not the only one who misses Finn, and if she can bring herself to trust this unexpected friend, he might just be the one she needs the most. Tell the Wolves I’m Home is a tender story of love lost and found, an unforgettable portrait of the way compassion can make us whole again. ISBN-13: 978-1447202141

Jack The Giant Killer Director: Bryan singer Release: 22nd March he ancient war between humans and a race of giants when Jack, a young

farmhand fighting for a kingdom and the love of a princess, opens a gateway between the two worlds. A very loose remake based on the old English folk tale about a youngster (Nicholas Hoult) who makes a name for himself by disposing of huge men. The trouble is, Jack has unwittingly opened a portal into a parallel world of medieval giants, and they want our planet for themselves. The rustic UK setting and solid cast, which also includes Bill Nighy, Stanley Tucci, Ian McShane and Eddie Marsan, promises good things for this family-friendly adventure.

What’s On

Top Ten Feng Shui Tips (Part 1)

How Safe is your home? • Millions of households throughout Britain could be at risk from toxic carbon monoxide fumes, due to a relaxed attitude towards gas safety in the home. • Gas Safe and engineers, launched a campaign to warn people of the dangers posed by the misuse of gas and gas appliances. • Manufacturers and Gas Safe recommend that your appliances & pipework should be serviced annually • Don’t be one of the thousands ignoring this advice every year. Your health could be at risk. • Prices for Checking & Servicing, start at just £40, so it’s a small price to pay for the safety of your family home. • Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer and make sure they show their identity card.

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1 - How Chi enters your home: The front door is one of the most important areas to consider when starting your Feng Shui journey. It is where most of the Chi to your property enters, as do you. It should firstly be in proportion to the rest of the house, clean and very tidy. Try to make it as welcoming as possible, ensuring the door and its furniture is clean and in good working order. It is also worth noting that your house number or name should be visible and clearly seen from the road, a benefit not only to actual visitors, but to lay the path down for possibilities and opportunities to come your way without difficulty. The doorway should be free of obstructions and the entrance hall clear of piles of shoes and coats. It is also a good idea to buy a new door mat every year, throwing away the old one and its collected negative, foot wiped Chi. 2 - Clear that Clutter!: Clearing clutter could be one of the very first things you do, in order to improve the overall Chi within your home. Clutter, can be put into numerous categories, for instance, old paperwork, piles of clothing, stuff on the stairs, old gifts you no longer want, etc. But the basic principle to follow is this: If you answer no to any of the following throw it out, recycle it or give it to a charity shop? Do you Love it?, Does have any lasting practical use?, Have you used it in the last 18 months? If broken; can it be fixed?, This gift from a friend or relative is wanted and has meaning in my life? This can be hard to cope with at first, and after a long time of hoarding, can often be a real struggle. This aims to strip away from our lives irrelevant and useless objects and effects that we tend to carry around with us till the end of days. Purging ourselves of unwanted and broken belongings, allows us to let the future provide for us, providing we are positive and open ourselves. 3 - Clarity is everything: This isn’t a commonly recommended Feng Shui tip, yet I feel it has a lot of impact on our daily lives. If you have dirty, cracked or even broken windows, this will have a direct effect on you. The windows of a property are representative of its eyes. It’s the clear vision and clarity of thought that a good set of clean windows can bring. I also feel that light that enters your home could also be tainted and its purity lost if it has to go through grime, smears and bird droppings before resting on your face. So get out there with a bottle of vinegar and some newspaper and shine your windows inside and out until sparkling clean! Part 2 next month, Article by © David Walters Dip. Chiro www.freeflow-fengshui.com

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What’s On Win tickets to see Blondie!

Blondie has confirmed a very special tour of the nation’s woodlands next summer performing their hits as part of the Forestry Commission’s annual concert series Forest Live. Special guest each evening will be The Lightning Seeds performing an acoustic set of their perfect pop songs like ‘Pure’, ‘Lucky You’ and ‘Change’. Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission bringing music to new audiences without commercial branding or sponsorship. Income generated from ticket sales is spent on improving the local forests for both people and wildlife. With everything required for a great night out, including full catering and bar facilities, the gigs are renowned for their relaxed atmosphere. Blondie with special guests The Lightning Seeds will be

performing in this region on Friday 14 June at Sherwood Pines, Nr Edwinstowe. For tickets and info call the Forestry Commission tel 03000 680400 or online at www.forestry. gov.uk/music/ In our reader competition to stand the chance of winning a pair of tickets to this fantastic concert, just tell us who Blondie are performing with. Answers to Editor diane@marathon-media.co.uk or text to 07916245367 with name and address by 18th March 2013

Feeling the heat on gas and electricity prices? Join the Nottinghamshire Switch ‘n’ Save scheme today! Nottinghamshire households can get plugged into average savings of up to £200 off their annual gas and electric bills by joining a new collective energy switching scheme. The Nottinghamshire Switch ‘n’ Save offer has been set up by Nottinghamshire County Council and consumer organisation Which? to offer residents peace of mind and value for money on gas and electricity prices. The scheme harnesses 'people power' by collectively negotiating the best possible price for its members, with energy companies competing for their custom. Latest figures show that the average gas and electricity bill has risen to £1,264 following price rises of 20% in 2011 and a further 11% late last year. In Nottinghamshire, almost 20% of households spend more than 10% of their income on heating and lighting their homes, meaning they are effectively living in ‘fuel poverty’. Nottinghamshire County Council has joined forces with consumer champion Which? to set up the no risk, no obligation, no cost Switch ‘n’ Save service. Which? is providing the switching software and their expertise to make sure people who join get the very best deal available on the market.

"Time is short as the offer is available for just five weeks. Don’t miss out – sign up today!” Which? executive director, Richard Lloyd, said: "Which? is proud to be teaming up with Nottinghamshire County Council to help people 'Switch 'n' Save' on their energy bills. Rising energy prices are one of consumers' top financial worries but by taking part in 'Switch 'n Save', people in Nottinghamshire could help their household budgets. When Which? ran our national collective switch last year, The Big Switch, we saved those who took part an average of £223." Joining the Nottinghamshire Switch ‘n’ Save scheme is easy – you just need a recent gas and electricity bill to hand to get a quote tailored to your household’s fuel usage. You can join online at the County Council’s website www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/ switchnsave You can even register on behalf of up to five people using one email address – ideal for family, friends, neighbours and older people who don’t use computers or the web. The Switch ‘n’ Save offer is only available until Wednesday 20 March.

What’s On Special Events and Diary Dates in March

1st March: Saint David’s Day is the feast day of Saint David, the patron saint of Wales. Tradition holds that Saint David died on 1st March 589. The date was declared a national day of celebration within Wales in the 18th century 10th March: Mothering Sunday, sometimes known as Mother’s Day, is held on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Traditionally, people visited the church where they were baptized. Mothering Sunday is now a celebration of motherhood. 17th March: Saint Patrick’s Day or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious holiday for the Irish, celebrating the anniversary of his death (c. AD 385–461). The most commonly recognised of the patron saints of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. 20th March: Vernal Equinox is one of two equinoxes, March and September – when the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal. Seasons are opposite on either side of the equator, so the equinox in March is also known as the “spring equinox” in the northern hemisphere. 31st March: British Summer Time Begins – yippee 26th March- 1st April: Passover begins on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan. The primary observances of Passover are related to the Exodus from Egypt after 400 years of slavery as told in the biblical Book of Exodus from chapters 1 to 15 29th March: Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is a public holiday in the UK. It falls just before Easter Sunday, which is the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the March equinox (celebrated by Pagan religion - giving easter eggs). 31st March: Easter Sunday in the United Kingdom is traditionally about Jesus Christ’s resurrection from death, according to Christian belief. However, many people use the day to decorate Easter eggs, share chocolate eggs and participate in Easter egg competitions, its roots in pagan rituals.

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What’s On Microsoft phone scam: how it works: The ‘Microsoft phone scam’ first became popular in 2008, and continues today! The Scammer calls you (possibly from India), and asks for you by name. They say they are a computer security expert from Microsoft (or another IT company). The ‘security expert’ is plausible and polite, but forceful. They claim your PC or Laptop is infected with malware (impossible for them to know), and they can help remove the infection. Some will ask for remote access to your PC or laptop or get you to download malware, both routes extract your personal data and may lock your machine up. To “fix” the infection they ask for money (£50 to £180). Note: No legitimate IT person is ever going to call you in this way. They know nothing about your home computing set up - it’s a scam to target vulnerable users. Somebody is sitting in a room calling number after number hoping to find a victim. It’s not personal, but it is ultimately dangerous to your financial and technological health. What to do if you are called: 1. Put the phone down as it’s not a legitimate call. 2. Don’t provide any personal information and never give your credit card or bank details. 3. Don’t allow them to guide you to a certain webpage, or change settings on your PC or download software as this will infect and compromise your machine. 4. If possible get the caller’s details. Report any instance of this scam to the police. 5. Finally, change any passwords and usernames that could have been compromised, and run a full scan with something like malwarebytes or superantispyware. Microsoft phone scam: what to do if you have been a victim Change passwords, email address, contact the bank or credit card company for help and be wary in the future.

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FIRE SAFETY WARNING TO BUSINESSES Business owners are being warned by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service to pay greater attention to fire safety laws, following its recent prosecution of a Mansfield retailer who was fined thousands of pounds for breaching the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. All building owners and occupiers have a legal responsibility to protect their customers and staff against the risk of fire. Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning that it will take action against anyone found to be in breach of these fire safety regulations. Vic McMillen, Fire Prevention Manager, said: “We are here to provide advice and support to local businesses and are always willing to help to make sure they comply with the fire safety legislation. However, the public should continue to be reassured that we take any breaches of fire safety very seriously and will use legal sanctions where necessary. “We want to make sure that business owners are aware of their responsibilities and duties to ensure that their staff and customers are safe. It is disappointing when a company chooses to place people at risk from fire.” Fire safety guidance for all types of business premises is available at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/departmentfor-communities-and-local-government/series/fire-safetylaw-and-guidance-documents-for-business or by contacting Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service’s fire safety advice line on 0115 9575231 or at fireprotection@notts-fire.gov.uk.

Hi there Rainworth Folk. The recent heavy snowfall has highlighted difficulties with the winter gritting programme which is compiled by Notts. County Council. Not the Parish. Not the District Council. Clearly not every street can be gritted and it cannot be assumed bus routes will be done. The Parish are looking to have greater input into the schedule for Winter 2013 / 2014. In the meantime grit bins have been refilled but we are concerned about reports of householders still taking grit for use on private properties. It is for the highways, to keep us all safe and moving. A very, very big ‘Thank you’, to all the residents who cleared paths and roads, and helped their neighbours. The remedial work on the bypass and the additional crash barrier next to the roundabout should be finished shortly.

contacted on 01623 490259 or rainworthpc@ntlbusiness.com. The Parish Office is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9am-2pm

Mothers Day Carvery. All Mums receive a special gift Easter Sunday Carvery. Each reservation collects an Easter Egg

Special Event in 2013/2014? Function Rooms FREE Hire

Next Parish Council Meeting. Thursday 14th March 7pm.

Many thanks to everyone who has donated to the Sock Appeal, with warm coats, hats, jumpers and even blankets. It has been a joy meeting you all. We will start collecting again in September/ October in readiness for next winter but appreciate donations all year. Linda Tift

Councillors are in and out of the Parish Office daily and always happy to assist with any problems, as is our Parish Clerk, Dawn Jones who can be

Councillor John Bradbury & John Middleton There has been a great deal of concern and discussion over the Local Health Service in the District Council not only with the future security of Newark Hospital, but also with the whole overview of Sherwood Forest Hospitals which also covers Kings Mill Hospital as well as our two Community Hospitals at Mansfield and Ashfield. The Council Is most concerned about the debt position of the Trust and the effect that this will have on the services at both Kings Mill and Newark hospitals. One comment in Council was that the Trust had overstretched itself with the plans for Kings Mill which have resulted in a massive debt for the Trust which will no doubt reflect on services especially when considered alongside the cuts being imposed by the Government. The Council is also very concerned over the performance and future plans of the East Midlands Ambulance Service. Concern has been voiced over the new “Hubs” and “Community Ambulance Points” (CAPs) and their locations.

Another point of concern was the below average performance of the service where it has not met the performance standards that have been set. EMAS have made adjustments to their proposals but it is still felt that these are still not enough. Comments have been made that the response times for NG21 and NG22 are causing particular concern. When a housing project is agreed there are payments made by the developer for the benefit of the locality. From our two Kirklington Road developments there is a total of £277.381 of this money and £28,999 is specified for Libraries. I am currently exploring with Nott’s County Council exactly how they intend using this money - and it must be used for Rainworth in addition to the funds already designated. We will keep you informed With limited space here, we will give additional detailed information on our Blog at nsdcrainworth.blogspot.com John Bradbury, 9 St Peters Drive, Tel: 07973 422839 Email: cllr.jb@j-brad.org uk John Middleton, 14 St Judes Way, Tel: 01623 799394 Email: jjmidd@hotmail.co.uk

Diary Dates for Rainworth Rainworth Miners Welfare Diary Dates Mon: 7.45–10.30pm Sequence Dancing £1.50 Admission, bingo, card bingo & ‘Open the Box’ (lounge & concert room) Tues: 7.30-11pm ‘Blitz’ modern jive lessons & dance to follow £7.00 admission (please call club to ensure the class is on) Wed: 7.15–9.15pm Family bingo. Great cash prizes & Raffle. Children welcome with an adult. Thur: 3.30 - 5.30pm Irish dancing Thur: 8.45pm Darts & Dominoes knockout (names by 8.45pm) Fri: Occasional Sequence Dancing (please check), £1.50. Bingo and Card Bingo as usual (Lounge and Concert Room) Sat: 8 - 10.30pm Family Bingo & Raffle. Children with adult. Sun: Sequence Dancing (Concert Room) £1.50 Admission. Quiz (Lounge Bar) and regular Bingo & Open the Box (both rooms). FANCY A PARTY OR CELEBRATION? —room hire only £35 Members, £70 Non-members—up to 6 hours KIDS PARTIES—Bouncy castle £30, Disco £45 for 2 hours (£70 for both) The Venue Royal British legion—Rainworth, Blidworth & District Branch meet at The Venue every First Thursday of the month —at 7.30pm and everyone is welcome St Simon and St Judes Church Fri: 4.45-5.45pm 4th Rainbow Brownies—For 5-7 year old girls. New members welcome. Call Pat Holmes on: 01623 795239 Art Group 1.45 – 3.30 pm £1.50 inc refreshments. Painting or drawing – any skill level. All welcome Rainworth Methodist Church Fri: 6pm 3rd Rainworth Brownies. Details phone: 01623 629879 Surestart Children’s Centre, Rainworth water road. Families can contact us on 01623 499900 to confirm details of groups or if they are running during the school holidays. Mon: 9 -11.15am Lakeview Toddler & Baby Group - open to all (call to confirm ) Wed: 1.15-3.00pm Busy Feet-open to all (please call to confirm during the holidays) Thur: 1.15-3.00pm Toby's Twos Group -suitable for children 24 months+ (Term time only) Fri: 9.30-11am Wobbly Ones-suitable for toddlers 12-24 months, 11am-12pm Jelly Babies-suitable for birth-12 months To amend any of the above details or add new ones contact the editor: 01623 795623 or via dianecarter@marathon-media.co.uk

Helping The Hillview Practice Help You Can we remind you of our new website which now offers, traditional service and soon the following: Order repeat prescriptions, Cancel appointments - VERY IMPORTANT, Request a telephone consultation Update clinical & contact details, Sign up for e-mail newsletters & much, more. Also, text reminders are being sent out, something patients can

Friends of Tippings Wood The pond continues to look great after so much snow and heavy downpours. Shale has been delivered to hopefully improve the waterlogged area on the red brick path. It’s easy to think that nothing is happening in the woods through the winter but nothing could be further from the truth. Although an old log is itself lifeless, a close look may reveal a community of invertebrates and fungi, feeding on the decaying wood. Trees are felled and woodland kept so tidy that fallen logs are a rarity these days, so it can be an impoverished environment for both fauna and flora. Birds benefit greatly from fur from dog grooming and the fluff from your tumble dryers that help them build cosy nests. Many thanks for the beautiful photos of Tippings Wood in

the snow! There is a lot of work to do so any help is appreciated. Litter picking leaves us free to do site management so consider helping us out with this. Everyone loves Tippings Wood but it doesn’t just happen. Dedicated volunteers give time willingly to maintain our country park. We are always looking for volunteers. If you would like to join us for a day please ring mobile number 07950646620 to check when and where we are going to meet. Be our eyes and ears and look after Tippings Wood. Report criminal damage to the new non-emergency Police number on 101. They may not attend, but it is important to record any issues so that further action can be considered. Friends of Tippings Wood.

opt in or out of. Do speak to surgery staff if you have any queries regarding this. After our good patient survey results, the Practice has now had an excellent independent assessment of staff, systems & procedures. We hope to follow on with yet another fund-raising event soon in time for Easter, details to be announced later. C/O Dave Ball, ppghillview@hotmail.co.uk

every endeavour to promote the Problems with Debt? Comradeship and Service which is Did you know there is a FREE the keystone of the Legion. There is also a Youth membership for those CONFIDENTIAL ADVICE SERVICE between 12 and 18 years of age for a available? one off cost of £5.00. The MONEY ADVICE CENTRE All money raised (100%) under the banner of the Legion goes towards is run by the Sherwood Forest Community it aims and objectives, this is in Church in Blidworth accordance with the Legions Royal Call Mike on 01623 797763 Charter which was first laid down in law by King George Fifth on the 21st OM FORIS TEE April 1925. The membership fee for 2013 When Dave come in from school, he shouts, is just £13.00 and this money is used “Ey up Mam, it’s only me.’ to pay the running costs of the Legion, “Ey up ah Dave, ent u sin ah Steve, thereby enabling all the money raised E shud be om foris tee?” by the Legion to go towards its aims and “I sin im dahn folly at dina, objectives. Standin by the den.” Anyone who would like to join the Me Mam shouts up to ask me, Legion contact your nearest branch or “Ooh worri wi, worri wi issen?” alternatively contact Jim Filby: Mob: “He wa wi a pal and I erd im say – 07768 742111 or email jim@filby.info, and “Ent eny on yer gorrowt on yer? I will put you in contact with your nearest We aint gorri enuf fa nowt.” branch. When Steve come in from work, he shouts, “Ey up Mam, it’s only me.” “Ey up ah Steve, ent u sin yer Dad? E shud b om foris tee.” When Dad come in from pit, he shouts Blidworth Parish Council “Ey up mi duck, ent yer mashd yit?” Just a short report this month :We all shout, “Where’s kayuk, tintintin?” MeMam sez, “Erz ya tee, bred n jam, 1 . Our Parish Website is now up and running – www. Shurrup n gerit dahn yer!” blidworthparishcouncil.org.uk – there are no doubt a few errors © Gillian Bagueley which can be quickly put right , so please have a look & give us your thoughts & ideas to improve same . 2. Suggestion Forms – This scheme is now live with forms & BLIDWORTH READING GROUP boxes situated @ Blidworth Library, Blidworth Post Office & We are a small group who meet at 4-00 on the Blidworth Community Leisure Centre . 3rd Wednesday of the month at Blidworth library to discuss our chosen book of the month. We’re 3 . Annual Parish Meeting – 25th April 2013 @ Methodist a very informal group who look forward to gaining Church Hall 7pm – All invited, Invitations to Community Groups new members. Please come and join us. will be sent out next month A SPONSORED 24 HOUR MARATHON. When you read this our 24hour Marathon which is on the 8/9th March will be about to start, under way or completed and as promised next month we will let you know how much we raised. POPPY PARTY III – NEWARK CASTLE Ten Legion branches in the Newark and Sherwood district are holding a Poppy Party again in Newark Castle on Sunday 21st July 2013 starting at 11am finishing at 5pm. Please put this date in your diary as it will be a great day out for all the family. THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION The Royal British Legion is one of the largest Charities in the UK and raises money to help UK Forces personnel, Forces Veterans and their Dependants when they need our help; we also ensure that those who gave the ultimate sacrifice are not forgotten. Full membership is open to all those who are over 16 years of age and want to actively support the Aims and Objectives of the Legion, and will use

Blidworth Parish Council, Belle Vue Lane, Blidworth Nottinghamshire, NG21 0RD Geoff Stocks, Clerk to the Council Tel/Fax: 01623 490358 Office hours, Mon 9am – 4pm Thurs 9am – 4pm

Meadow Road and New Road Pensioners Association (the Monday club) Hi everybody greetings from the club. The club and members are all okay. Monday meeting at our HQ at Rookwood take place as usual,apart from Mother nature playing her part and preventing one meeting Its been a quiet time of late, except for a birthday party for our member Mr Ian Smith who arrived at a milestone birthday - The Big 80th. ( many happy returns

Blidworth & Rainworth Women’s Institute (W.I.) Meet at the Blidworth Methodist church hall on the 1st Thursday of every month at 7.30. Come and join in our small friendly group. Call Mary on 01623 799095 for details. It’s not all jam and Jerusalem! C/O Mary Ledger

Ian from all of us ) Photo: showing Ian receiving a card and gift from our leader Marlene So to the next time regards to all your readers Harry

Diary Dates for Blidworth Blidworth Miners’ Welfare Social Centre ‘Weekly Events’ Monday: Salsa Class “Salsacise” at 6pm with Ace Salsa. (see full advert page 5). Also Free Pool Tuesday: Dominoes Handicap starts 8:30. New players welcome. Wednesday: Bingo Night plus ‘Sticky Thirteen’ Card Games Thursday: Poker Night from 8:00 Friday: Live Entertainment, Members Draw and ‘Sticky Thirteen’ Card Games Saturday: Live Entertainment and ‘Sticky Thirteen’ Card Games Sunday: Quiz Night and ‘Sticky Thirteen’ Card Games Private Room available for Hire For Birthdays, Meetings, Anniversary & Wedding Celebrations Contact 01623 793361 (Kevin) or 0788 7977350 (Dave) Weekly Events SureStart Centre Tues: 9.15-11.15am Homestart Group-open to all (please confirm during holidays) Tues: 1.30-3pm Wobbly Ones-suitable for toddlers 12-24 months (Term time) Wed: 1.30-2.30pm Jelly babies -for babies 0-12 months (confirm during the holidays) Tues: 2.30-3.30pm Child Health Clinic-open to all Thur: 1-3pm Family Play Session-open to all (please confirm during holidays) Fri: 9.30-11am Blidworth Oaks Toddler Group £1.00 per family (Term time) Fri: 2-3pm Rhyme Time (Term time only) St Andrew’s Mission Hall Tues: 2-3.30pm Bingo with Stephen Fox Tues: 5.30-7pm 1st St Mary’s Brownies (term time) Tel Kathy

Straw 490920 Wed: 6.30-8.30pm Needlecraft Club Blidworth Doctor’s Surgery Wed: 9.30am Citizens’ Advice Bureau Sherwood Forest Community Church Thu: 2-4pm Art Class Blidworth Methodist Church Thu: 6-8pm Teen Drop in Club (11 - 15yrs) (Term time only) Fri: 10.30-11am Toddler Church (Term time only) Fri: 11-12.30pm Parent Support Group (Term time only) The Drill Hall (New Rd) Mon/Wed: 7-9pm Army Cadet Force Belle Vue Playing Field Tues/Thu: 7pm FC Training (17+ new players welcome) To amend any of the above details or add new ones contact the editor: 01623 795623 or via dianecarter@marathon-media.co.uk BLIDWORTH & RAVENSHEAD PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG) We are a small group of patients who represent patients registered at the GP Practice at Blidworth & Ravenshead. All patients are welcome to attend our meetings to learn more about the PPG’s role, and how important patients contributions are to GPs’ in helping them understand the needs of patients in respect of healthcare locally. Patients can learn more about The Practice via the – www.blidworthandravensheadsurgery.co.uk - or ﬁnding out about local events etc via our noticeboards at the surgeries. See AGM Date on page 29 For further information about the PPG contact Gilly Hagen Chair e-mail gillyﬂower50@hotmail.com

Blidworth & District Historical Society At our February meeting we were given a terrific presentation by Stuart Reddish and Linda Mallat. They told members and guests about a recently rediscovered Viking meeting site in Sherwood Forest between Edwinstowe, Warsop and Kings Clipstone known as ‘Thyghowe’. Much more information on this site can be found at www. thynghowe.org.uk. At the break members were able to browse through a selection of photographs from the Society’s archives prepared by Eric Hall and an old St. Mary’s Parish Magazine lent by members Joan and Joyce Smith. Member Derek Wilson brought in more of his finds from his field walking trips. All proved of great interest to our guests and members. Alan Higgins continued his slide presentations of the

Bards at Blidworth

Commemorative Stones and Memorials that are to be found in and around Blidworth. He talked about the commemorative stones to be found in and around St Mary’s Church and the stone commemorating the murder of Elizabeth (Bessie) Shepherd, aged just 17 years old, in 1817 on Nottingham Rd north of the Larch Farm crossroads. Our next meeting will be on March 5th and will begin with our Annual General Meeting. Afterwards we will hear Anthony Poulton-Smith who will talk on the origins of place names Meetings start at 7 pm, with everyone seated at that time. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month at the Methodist Chapel on Main Street, Blidworth. Ample parking at the rear. New members welcome; just turn up. A small charge of £2

support. The Bards World Book Day is a charity at Blidworth and was first celebrated poetry group in 1995 on 23rd April. For continue to UK readers, this date also hold workshops celebrates National Saints and readings Day, St. George’s Day as well at Blidworth library on 3rd as Shakespeare’s birthday! Saturday of the month from However, the date tended to 10am to 12pm and most of fall within the Easter school our members have now had holidays and so it was poems published in The changed (in UK)to the first Sherwood magazine but Thursday in March. On this also in the two anthologies day every school child in of members’ work so UK receives a voucher that far produced:- Bards at can be spent on books. The Blidworth and Beyond whole idea of the day is to 2012 Anthology and we foster and promote reading are now looking forward and many events are held to the publication of the throughout the country. 2013 Anthology. Two of World Book Day supports our poets have had their Book Aid International who first collections of poems work to supply books to published:- Arthur Radford, children in Africa and so to The Dumbles and the aid their education. Four Seasons and Chris We are lucky in UK to have Pearson’s Entrance to free public lending libraries Pleasure. All are available and it is easy to forget that from Amazon. it has taken many years to Christine Michael, http:// establish them. Our libraries, www.thynkspublications. librarians and library co.uk/ assistants deserve our

includes refreshments. If you have old photos of the village and its people we may copy and add to our archive please bring along. If you would like more info contact: Dale Smallwood, Secretary, on 01623 479978 or visit our website. www.blidworthhistoricalsociety. co.uk, You can also follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Blidworth Art Club (Adult Group) We are an adult group and we meet at the Methodist Meeting room, Main Street, Blidworth at 7.30 - 9.00 pm every Tuesday evening. Cost £1.00 including tea and biscuits. New members are always welcome please contact Jean Richards on 0623 795403 for further information

Now Taking Debit and Credit Cards* Mother’s Day Sunday 10th March New Menu Launch Delicious Sunday Lunches BJ Bakery Fresh Home Cooked, Locally Sourced Quality Foods used in all our Meals *Minimum Purchase £5 Address: 79 Mansfield Road, Blidworth, Mansfield, Nottingham. NG21 0RB

Rotary Club of Sherwood Forest During January, club members and friends had a night out at Launay’s in Edwinstowe. During the evening ladies received a gift from fellow members. Rotarian Laura Harmer looks on amused and yes you have guessed it Malcolm and Sue come originally from Wales so I guess they will also be celebrating St David’s Day in March and now they are complete with the Welsh Red Dragon! Sean McCullum the Crew Manager at Edwinstowe Fire Station was a guest of the club this month. He gave a fascinating talk about the inner workings of a Fire Station and the Fire Service in England and how it had changed over the years. We perhaps think Fire Engines are for putting out fires, well yes they are but now their main job has changed and more often than not they are called out to attend road traffic accidents. Each engine apart from having a very long extendable ladder, hoses and water has cutting and lifting equipment and they are now extremely high tec and assist the police and ambulance service at accidents. Just a point - very early Fire Engines were pulled by a horse with water being thrown on the fire from leather buckets. One of the original Fire Station buildings can still be found on Station Road in Ollerton with small turret on its roof! Contact me for more info. Tony Crowson President, Rotary Club of Sherwood Forest, 01623 825607. www.rotary1220org/she sherwoodforestrc@btinternet.com

Laxton Public Walks 2013

The annual series of public walks round Laxton with Stuart Rose begin in March. The first, which will look at ‘Laxton After Winter’ takes place on Sunday 24th March, leaving Laxton Visitor Centre at 10.00am and returning approx. 1.00pm. Walkers will see how the winter sown wheat in Mill Field is progressing. Some of the second field crops in West Field will be making progress and others will still be newly sown. The third field, South field in 2013, will be in overwinter stubble just beyond the deadline date of 20th March by when it must have been broken up to provide a nesting habitat for ground nesting birds such as the skylark. The walk is open to anyone able to walk approx. 4 miles on uneven ground. Appropriate, sturdy, footwear should be worn and waterproof / warm clothing brought to suit the weather on the day. A second walk on 20th April will look at the medieval landscape and village, while regular visitors and people looking for something different to do should put the 1st May Dawn Chorus’ walk in their diaries. This begins at 5.00am at the Visitor Centre to see the dawn break at Laxton castle while Rattlejag Morris dance in the May. Following a BBQ breakfast walkers visit all three fields to identify the birds who are also ‘up with the lark’. All walks are free of charge. Donation required for the BBQ.

Maggots £2.25 per pint

Visit us at Donington Market Pitch 339 Sundays

Blidworth Walking Group Newark & Sherwood D.C. Walk for Life Gov. Initiative Why not come join our group in this great FREE and fun initiative in the Blidworth area, but welcome to all local residents. Linda, from the Blidworth Community Centre, is leading this venture and has built up a regular group of 30 walkers who meet every Sunday at 10am at the Leisure centre.

Interested contact: Linda Elliott at Blidworth 0770 363 1816 or go on the Walk4Life website and click on Blidworth to find out more about the walks. Thursday Walking Club—This group have now started meeting again. Contact Sheila on 01623 796118 for details. Sunday March 17th is the “Red Nose & Funny Hat” walk for Comic Relief, the walk meets at Blidworth Community Leisure Centre at 10am, the route is 5 miles through Boundary wood, Haywood Oaks and Blidworth Bottoms, stopping for a refreshment break at the woodland catering van in Blidworth Bottoms, before making our way back to the Leisure Centre where Funny Hats will be judged & prizes awarded, we will also hold a raffle at the centre. The charge for the walk is £1 per adult, 50p per child and dogs. Please only bring sociable dogs. Children under 7 will struggle with the 5miles, unless they come on a child’s bicycle. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

BLIDWORTH & RAVENSHEAD PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, BLIDWORTH SURGERY TUESDAY 12TH MARCH, 1.30PM Start.

We are a small group of patients who represent the patients of the local GP Practice at Blidworth & Ravenshead. And we welcome more patients joining us in our work to develop the role of patient’s in their healthcare locally. We work with the Healthcare Team at the Practice to develop healthcare and well-being locally. Interested come along to the AGM. GILLY HAGEN, PPG Chair, e-mail illyflower50@hotmail.com telephone 797138 or Sally Haywood Practice Manager 795461.

Tesco to the Rescue When asked to help with raffle prizes, Hollie Whitehead and her team at Rainworth Tesco Express did not disappoint! Cornwater Club Manager, Maxine Dakin, was presented with an array of Valentine themed goodies and Easter eggs by Deputy Manager, Emily Holden, pictured right in the picture. Maxine Dakin said “We are absolutely delighted with Tesco’s support. Running raffles is an ideal way for us to raise money for our charity, but prizes can be

difficult to obtain, so to be presented with such a great selection of prizes is fantastic” The raffle will be held over a number of Cornwater Club sessions, giving all the members the opportunity to enjoy the chance of winning. The Cornwater Club has been associated with the Rainworth Tesco since its Chairman, Dr Peter Rose, was invited to open the store with representatives from another local charity, the Detached Youth Project. The Cornwater Club is an old people’s charity which runs three sessions a week and offers friendship for older people, helping to prevent them becoming isolated and alone in their own homes. A number of activities take place during the day and a freshly cooked two course mea is provided at lunchtime. c/o Melissa Blyth

The Ravenshead Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s Performance of HMS Pinafore

Strengthening Communities Church Services Blidworth -St Mary’s 1st & 3rd Sunday in month Holy Communion 9.15am 2nd & 4th Sunday in month Morning Worship 9.15am 2nd Sunday in month Holy Communion 8.00am Midweek - Wednesday Holy Communion 9.30am St Andrew’s Mission Monthly, Last Saturday in month 10.00am Coffee Morning St Andrew’s. 1st Sunday in month 12.30pm Holy Communion St Andrew’s Mission

Rainworth -St Simon & St Jude 1st Sunday in month All Age Worship 10.30am 3rd Sunday in month Morning Worship 10.30am 2nd & 4th Sunday in month Holy Communion 10.30am Midweek -Holy Communion Thursday 9.30am Monthly: 1st Monday in month Holy Communion 7.00pm

Methodist Church Sunday Services Morning Services Evening Services Blidworth 10:30am Blidworth 6.00pm Rainworth 10:30am Rainworth 6.00pm Farnsfield 10:15am Farnsfield 6.15pm Bilsthorpe 10.30am Note: Evening services are not every week, please check the notice boards. C/O Rev David Greenwood Methodist Minister Sherwood Forest Community Church “Sunday morning worship at 10am. Please visit our website for details of other events. www.sfcc.org.uk” St George’s Catholic Church, Rainworth Sunday Service 9.00am Weekday Mass Fri 7.00pm Holyday of Obligation: 7.00pm Confessions Fri 6.15 - 6.45pm Sun 8.30 - 8.50am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Fri 6.15 - 7.00pm Other Devotions see Newsletter

St Patricks Catholic Church Forest Town Saturday: 6.30pm (Vigil Mass) Sunday: 10.30am (Sung Mass) Weekday Mass Mon & Thur 9.00am Tue: 7.00pm Wed 11.00am Sat 10.00am Holydays of Obligation Eve of Holyday 7.00pm Confessions: Sat 9.30-9.55am, 5.45-6.25pm Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Tues 6.30-7.00pm Sat 9.00-10.00am

Services at ST PETER’S Church These follow the general pattern: Sunday: 8.00 am - Holy Communion (traditional language). 9.30 am - Parish Communion (Common Worship) or occasionally Service of the Word. 11.00 am - Morning Worship or Family Communion 6.00 pm - Choral Evensong Prayer (Book of Common Prayer) alternate Sundays Every Wednesday: 10.30 am - Holy Communion (CW) in the Church Lounge. SUNDAY SERVICES: HC = Holy Communion 8 am, PC = Parish Comm. 9.30 am. MW = Morning Worship 11am, FC = Family Comm. 11 am, CE = Choral Evensong 6 pm.

Church Article I’ve been thinking recently that we pride ourselves on doing lots of things at once – we watch TV whilst eating a snatched meal and at the same time we are checking our Facebook accounts or looking at twitter. We try to ﬁll out days with ceaseless wall to wall noise and activity and deny ourselves opportunities to simply sit and think or to talk through concerns and problems or share our joys and successes with others in a personal conversation. Can I make a plea (and I include myself in this) that we try to slow down a little. That we be gentle with ourselves and lower our expectations of how much we can cram into a day and that we take time for quality conversations so that we can really hear what others want to share with us instead of dashing off a series of quick emails or texts. The Bible tells us that Jesus took time to talk to people; he often asked them what they wanted from him, he encouraged meaningful conversations and he created time and space for this to happen. Let’s try to adopt this personal touch; we may

be surprised at what we learn from each other as we talk together. On Sunday 3rd February Jack David Nurse became the 91st Rocking baby in the unique Rockings service held at St Mary of the Puriﬁcation Church, Blidworth. He carries on the family tradition as one of his extended family was also Rocked in 1930. Jack was rocked in front of the altar in the ﬂower-decked cradle by Rev’d Clare Tyack, curate of Blidworth & Rainworth. The cradle was decorated by Mr Stephen Fox, lay Reader, at St Mary’s and has been used every year since the service was re-instated in 1922. The Rocking ceremony is a re-enactment of the story found in Luke’s gospel in the Bible of Presentation of Christ at the temple. Jack is pictured here with parents David and Anna, sister Ella and Rev’d Clare Tyack. Rev Hazel Robinson

St Andrew’s Mission Church, The Crescent, Blidworth Talk & Tea

3rd Monday in each Month 3.00pm - 4.00pm Light Refreshments and chat for any in need of company and conversation Suggested voluntary donation of £1 to cover costs. Contact Rev Hazel Robinson 01623 475135

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More Local News

Emergency Contacts: Police/Ambulance/Fire Services 999 or non-urgent Police calls 101 PC 505 Annette JOHNSON Beat Manager for Blidworth & Rainworth area Based at BLIDWORTH Police Station can be contacted on: 07595 007 505

Local contacts

Rainworth Health Centre, Warsop La, 01623 794293 Dentist 01623 798611 Blidworth & Ravenshead Surgeries 59 Mansfield Rd blidworth 01623 695461 30 Longdale Ave Ravenshead 01623 795461 Rainworth Library, Warsop Lane, 01623 791038 Joseph Whitaker School: 01623 792 327

Useful Contacts

Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping’s plans for

policing have now received the green light from the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Panel. Mr Tipping commented: “I’m obviously delighted that the Police and Crime Panel has given the goahead not just to the increase in the amount of council tax paid towards policing, but to the other two key elements of my plans - the Police and Crime Plan and the budget. “However, we remain open to public views about the plan. It’s tremendously important that the county’s residents and people who work in Nottinghamshire keep talking to us so that we can represent their needs - and we will keep listening.” The budget includes a major investment in frontline policing, which enables the Commissioner to keep his promise of putting more

bobbies and PCSOs in the county’s county neighbourhoods. His plans are for 150 police officers to be recruited in 2013-14 and a further 120 police officers in each of the next two years. In addition, the budget allows for 35 PCSOs to be recruited in 2013-14 and 2014-15, with 30 more in 2015-16. Mr Tipping is adamant that crime must continue to fall in Nottinghamshire. “We have to keep on our toes - and that can’t be achieved if resources are cut,” he said. “The Panel has listened to our point of view and clearly sees our position, which is good news all round. Now we need to get on and deliver the plan.” In the face of Government cuts, the amount of council tax paid towards policing will be increased by 1.95% per cent in 2013/14. That increase, which will bring in an extra £1m, works out at less than a penny a day for the county’s taxpayers.

Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90 www.samaritans.org Childline: 0800 1111 NHS Direct: 0845 4647 Online help at: http://www.nhs. uk/NHSDirect Age UK: 0800 00 99 66 Asthma UK Advice line: 08457 01 02 03 Domestic violence helpline: 0808 2000 247 FRANK: 0800 77 66 00 Stroke Helpline: 0845 303 3100 Shelter: 0808 800 4444 Macmillan Cancer line : 0808 808 2020 Severn Trent Water: 0800 783 4444 Citizens Advice Bureau: 01623 627 163 Newark & Sherwood Homes: 01623 860 740 N&S District council: 01636 650 000 Mansfield District Council: 01623 463 463 Nott’s County Council: 0844 980 80 80 We would like to advertise YOUR business if you offer an emergency service. For example: Electrician, Locksmith, Glazier Call our Advertising Dept on: 01623 404299 See the panel to the left for contact details Community First Responders Save a local life by joining this valuable service. Call Tony Machin on 01623 796295

More information is available at: www.sherwoodcommunitynewsletter.co.uk

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