The Beestonian 64: The Sport Issue by The Beestonian

o wi t

The

ees... It â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s g ot

for residents of beeston... and the world!

n a i n o Beest no

thin g t

Issue No. 64

pong

! py co EE FR July 2019

focus on

sport what's inside:

(do 12 star jumps before opening)

Football genius

Jonny Owen

Get nautical

Sam Weller Widdowson

The Essential Interview

Beeston Sailing Club

let's

a mov ke ie!

GOT A

your face here

BIG IDEA?

BRAND WEB I L L U S T R AT I O N DESIGN APP  FILM

THE BIG IDEA PAINT IT BRIGHT

WWW.BIGIDEA-CREATIVE.CO.UK • 0115 9228922

A FRESH APPROACH At RM Tax & Accountancy we like to do things differently to most other accountants. There is no tie, no expensive office, no hidden fees or unexpected invoice. Your tax affairs will be dealt with from start-to-finish by a fully qualified accountant. All our fees are agreed up-front and paid month by month to spread the cost of your accountancy and tax needs. We make ourselves available around our clients hours; if a 7pm call suits you better than anything 9-5, then it suits us too. Find out more: www.rmtaxandaccountancy.com Give us a call: 0115 7270 725 or email us: rob@rmtaxandaccountancy.com

Beestonian The

f this is the first time you’ve picked up The Beestonian after having one thrust into your hand at Beeston Carnival, then welcome. You’re a bit late to the party, but it’s good to have you. It’s also good to have the carnival, that despite the efforts of some (jealous?) pinheads up at Nottinghamshire County Council could have been jeopardised when they demanded a load of money from the organisers. Luckily a stink was kicked up and they backed down, allowing the carnival and its parade to go ahead. Top marks to the organisers, Lynda and Pat Lally, and all those who volunteer. As I write this it is bucketing it down with rain. When you read this, let’s hope that’s not the case, but if so our glossy paper is highly water resistant and can be easily turned into an ad-hoc hat.

getting some exercise in is all but neglected, right? Wrong. We are BRILLIANT at sport.

Many world champions, Olympic medal winners and famous footballers have, and still do call Beeston home, and judging by the vast crowds that do Parkrun at a weekend it’s not just the professionals who thrive here. This issue takes a peek at some of the stuff on offer, from what you can do on a choppy lake to a rather excellent fellow who straddles the worlds of sport and culture with some élan. So stop reading this bit, and jump right in. Then grab a tennis racket/rugby ball/ hockey stick/sumo jock-strap and have a go at joining the pantheon of sporting legends that have made Beeston their home. MT

EDITORIAL Lord Beestonia; lead writer and founder...

There is a common misconception that we Beestonians are nothing but Epicurists, merely lapping up the goodness that this town has to offer, be it a wealth of culture or fine pubs. Distracted by such stuff, actually

(For Harry, who was a good dog)

A Beeston ...legend I Am Beeston

hen John Ronualdas Ciutiskis - aka Fastlane - died earlier this month, nonBeestonians looking in at the response would have been surprised at the huge outpouring of feeling and comment that came forth, notably on the Beeston Updated site. It even left some Beestonians puzzled. I won’t profess to have known John well enough to write a proper obituary. Like most, I was more than aware of him as he made his way –very vocally- around the town, and that if you took the time to actually chat to

him you’d see past the caricature and find a pleasant man, obviously struggling with his own demons. The reaction to his death is deeper than an individual dying. We as a community are often drawn to things that unite us all due to their ubiquity: the tram works debacle; the tragic passing of Owen Jenkins; the street art project; and now John’s death. We coalesce around commonality. As an inherently gregarious species, we seek out subjects that overlap lives: John’ visibility lent us that.

Whatever cypher John might have been, he was also a human, with human connections and we must not lose sight of that. To cast him as a parodic figure, however kindly that is intended, is not ok. A couple of years ago, when the I Am Beeston here was published, I was initially highly sceptical about the wisdom of the idea and was close to vetoing it. Yet

Continues...

was born in Beeston 61 years ago. My dad was Lithuanian."

O UNIVERSITY OF BEESTONIA Augar-ing down into the world of Higher Education...

Must

n my return from a University of Beestonia sabbatical I find HE in the national headlines, in May sandwiched somewhere between Farage and Trump (don’t dwell on that imagery too much) Dr Augar and his colleagues presented their Review of Post-18 Education and Funding (from the literal rather than creative school of titling I guess…). The headline grabbing recommendation (out of all 53 of them) was that to reduce the University Tuition Fee from its current level at £9,250, to £7,500 per year for undergraduate students.

that blo

ody th esis!

So how does one go about balancing that alongside the other things Universities have to do, like undertake research? It is the question that Universities and those that work within them have been batting with for some time. How do you balance the books and maintain or improve quality? How do you measure quality and ensure it? Themes such as this have drifted through this particular column before.

a “There’s o et challeng e or doing m .” ss.. with le

Less widely reported, but fairly critical for the Universities was the following recommendation that Government should replace in full the lost fee income by increasing the teaching grant, leaving the average unit of funding unchanged at sector level in cash terms. This seems fairly critical, as otherwise most Universities will see substantial reductions in income, given the high percentage of that income that comes from tuition fees.

write

Some point out though that government also want a high quality higher education sector in the UK – it has its uses after all, not least the 1.2 % of GDP in contributes (figures from the Augar review).

However, word on the lanes and boulevards is that the next government is likely to embrace the former recommendation and quietly ignore the latter. After all, saving folk money is a good thing, whereas taking it away from something else or increasing taxes generally doesn’t go down so well.

And whilst we juggle with the balancing, there are still huge uncertainties about just what will happen to the review in the hands of a new PM, a new government and in an uncertain Brexit landscape. It’s difficult to plan for, and so institutions have to look to the worst case. A cut in fee will likely have to be compensated for by an increase in student numbers or cut in provision somewhere. Neither are ideal in terms of providing a leading higher educational experience to our future students. 20 go to 10. There’s a challenge to doing more with less, to more by fewer. And it’s a shame because we have great students who deserve and should demand a good University education, and we want to be able to provide that. I don’t think the Augar review wanted anything less than that either, I just hope whoever implements the review allows it to happen. It’s good to be back…

"I worked at Ericssons/ Plessey's on circuit board assembly. The first pub that I ever went in was the Three Horseshoes. That was in nineteen seventy three. It's not there anymore." "Beeston is vibrant, like Nottingham. It's where I've lived all my life. It's a friendly place. The Pottle is my favourite pub. I also like the Cricketeers."

“Fastlane is Beeston!” "I don't use the tram at all, as it's too technical. Having to use the ticket machine. If I want to go to Nottingham, then I'll go on the bus, or walk. About ten years ago, I got some pension money from Plessey's, and I went into Nottingham and bought some jeans from Hugo Boss, as I like Hugo Boss. You go in the shop and it oozes quality. It's better than Paul Smith's. I don't have them any more." "Fastlane is Beeston!"

I AM BEESTON

Christopher Frost, who interviews and photographs the subject handled it with due care, and through letting him speak freely, captured him as an individual. It became one of our most popular ever posts, and in lieu of a full epitaph –I will leave that to the family and those who knew him well – I hope it suffices as our tribute. MT

John Ronualdas Ciutiskis 'Fastlane'

It’s hardly surprising that this happens really. Your body is under stress, your internal organs are having a pillow fight, it’s no wonder that the coffee and muffin you had for breakfast is fast tracked through your colon quicker than an Etonian at an investment bank.

It’s okay, I’ll go tomorrow. I’m forty now and I know I need to look after myself, I’ve noticed that recently my body has started working against me, sabotaging itself to try and slow me down. I put on weight just by saying “Greggs”, I pulled a muscle in my back when I sneezed, and my bladder is weaker than the plot of Hollyoaks.

SCOTT BENNETT

This ish: “Keep on running”

Running has been the only thing that has worked. I like swimming, but not in a cocktail of diluted urine and old plasters. The gym intimidates me. The first time I went I saw a man bench pressing, making noises like he was about to give birth and his mate straddling his head with his genitals almost brushing his face, shouting encouragement. Once I had the ridiculous notion that I could work out at home, in my shed, I even bought some dumbbells to use. The only time I’ve lifted them since, was to move them out of the way to get to the BBQ. Much as I despise it, running is the easiest exercise to fit around my chaotic lifestyle. A pair of trainers and a basic sense of direction is all you need. The running community is quite bizarre though. They love to tell you how far they run and how often. “I only did three miles today.” “Right?” “Yeah, need to do a long one at the weekend really.” “Brilliant, thanks for that mate.” “Yeah, I’m going to go and run down near the canal.” “Wow, that’s great, is there any way one could follow this exciting venture?” “There is yes, I’ll put it all on Facebook!” “Ah, of course you will.” Historically running was seen as a punishment, at school everyone lived in fear of that crosscountry run. Endless laps of a dog dirt riddled field whilst the teacher followed you round, heckling you for being fat, skinny, tiny, tall, ginger or southern. The fashion in running has changed too. Go and chat to some older runners. They’ll tell you stories of how they did the London Marathon in less than three hours with nothing but a flask of Bovril and a pair of Dunlop Greenflash. Now runners have glow in the dark tops, flashing LED headbands, trainers with Ipods in them, when they come towards you, they are lit up like a couple of wheezing gritters. Some of the running gear that you can buy for the amateur runner is ridiculous. Compression socks are a thing now. They are tight-fitting knee-high socks that are designed to stimulate blood flow to the major organs to improve performance by 2-5%. A vital advantage, I think you’ll agree, when you are toddling round the estate past the chippy on a Friday night.

Bees

I’m sat here now, watching Netflix with a beer and feeling that creeping guilt cloak me like a dirty dressing gown.

I am always a victim of the dreaded runners’ trots when I go for a run.

careful now, It,s...

should have gone for a run tonight, but I failed, like I do every single time.

nP to

In which our very own Beest of Beeston takes a look at our enviable collection of top-notch taprooms! This month:

It is a fact that Colon cancer is less amongst runners, mainly because you are giving yourself an enema every time you go out. I make sure my route always takes me past a pub, that way if I am caught short, I can always nip in. It’s always a bit awkward, going in a pub just to poo. I try and pretend that I’m just out for a casual drink. Waddling through the mass of drinkers, dressed head to toe in bright yellow Lycra, as if it’s completely normal, like I’ve planned it all. “Yep see you down the Red Lion at seven John, I’ll just put my tights on pal, myself and my chafed nipples can’t wait to see you, I’ll have a pint of Lucozade!”

DAN CU LLEN

I just wish I loved running; it would be so much easier. I’ve realised that my thought process when I am thinking about going for a run is always the same. I wake up, my alarm goes off, its 7am. “Right, get your trainers on and get this run out of the way.” “I’m too tired, I need sleep, that’s just as important, I’ll go later, I’ll go at lunchtime.” Its 12.30pm, my wife and daughter are tucking into their sandwiches, I’m starving. “What if I don’t eat today? what if I just put that kit on and wander round the house? Maybe I can trick my body into thinking it’s been for one?” “No, I can’t run now anyway, I’m too hungry, I’ll go in the afternoon, before the school run.” 2pm: “I can’t go now what if that parcel comes that I’m waiting for? I’ll go tonight, before dinner.” 6pm: My wife comes in with fish and chips, “Do you want any? Or are you going for that run?” “No, I’ll go when the kids are in bed. Pass me the curry sauce” 9pm: “Right, get your trainers on, this is ridiculous.” “It’s started raining now, I’ll go in the morning, I’ll set the alarm for 5am, I’ll have a raw egg like Rocky, I’ll do ten miles, I’ll not stop until I vomit!” The following day, my alarm sounds, its 5 am. I get up, put my running gear on, get out of the house, I make it halfway down the street, it’s happening, I’m actually out for a run!!! “Oh god, I think I need a poo….” @scottbcomedyuk | scottbennettcomedy.co.uk Find The Scott Bennett Podcast on SoundCloud and iTunes SB

I had to sta Crown; it rt with the 's my fav Beeston ourite pu b competit (and, given the ion, that' s saying somethin g!) Sat in th e sunshin e with a pint of p cheesebo ale and a a doesn't g rd... it just et any b etter.

saviour of our

Aliens living among us

shins

at Attenborough TIM SEXTON Attenborough Nature Reserve: The Men in Biege

or most of us aliens are the stuff of science fiction movies but for staff at the Attenborough Nature Reserve they are very much a serious threat! As a result, much of our summer work program is spent controlling alien invaders from far-off lands. Of course we are not referring to little green men in flying saucers, rather invasive alien plant species. The term "Invasive Alien Species" is often given to any flora or fauna that is found outside of its normal range and that threatens native biological diversity. One species in particular is causing a real headache for us at the Attenborough Nature Reserve this year. An alien plant species known as Himalayan balsam. Taking advantage of optimum growing conditions through the late spring (warm and wet), it is waging war on the Reserve with our smaller and slower-growing native plants. Himalayan balsam, as the name suggests, is native to the Himalayas and was first introduced to the UK in 1839. Originally a greenhouse plant, it quickly ‘escaped from captivity’ and established itself in the wild – particularly along watercourses and in woodlands, where it forms a dense cover. From its initial discovery in Middlesex it can now be found across the whole of the UK and has also established itself in 23 other countries outside of its natural range. It owes its success primarily to the novel way in which it spreads its seeds. Each plant is capable of producing up to 800 seeds which develop in pods across the plant. Late in the season when the pods swell up they explode, firing seeds for up to four metres around the plant. To make matters worse Himalayan balsam is fast growing and can reach heights of up to 3m so quickly shades out many of our native species. A tolerance for low light levels gives it a head start in the season and its plentiful, sweet nectar is so attractive to bees that they spend more time pollinating the balsam than any of our native flowers. The pretty pink flowers of balsam, orchid-like in their appearance, are not just attractive to bees but also to humans and

we have also unwittingly helped the spread of this invasive plant by introducing it to our gardens (which is now illegal). As there are currently no natural controls for Himalayan balsam in the UK, over 1,500 volunteer and staff hours a year have to be spent at Attenborough ‘Balsam Bashing’ – manually pulling Himalayan balsam from the ground and piling it up to rot away. Whilst time consuming and laborious, years of tackling certain areas of the Reserve have been shown to reduce the amount of balsam appearing in subsequent years. We are constantly looking for novel ways to control this plant, and in recent years have adopted various methods from grazing with cattle and sheep, to enrolling the help of the army to assist us in our battle. In the Delta Woodland two years ago, ‘Balsam Bashing’ took on a whole new meaning. As part of a trial we used long hazel sticks to literally bash through the balsam with large volunteer work parties. While this method allowed regrowth of the plant from the base of the stem (which doesn’t occur with manually pulling), we were able to clear much bigger areas than with manual pulling, much quicker. Even though we had to return later in the year to clear the regrowth, the total area we were able to clear over the summer was far greater. As a result, areas of the Delta Woodland (one of the most species-rich habitats on the Reserve) are now clear of Balsam - the benefit of which was realised last summer when common spotted orchids flowered in the woodland for the first time in 30 years! TS

ootball genius Sam Weller Widdowson, co-owner of Beeston’s first cinema, was an innovative visionary who made an immense contribution to the beautiful game.

adapted pads from his fellow Notts batsman, the Notts County co-founder Richard Daft.

Having dabbled with Notts County, 15-yearold Sam Weller Widdowson became a founder member of the recently formed Nottingham Forest in 1866. Promoted to captain in his early 20s, Widdowson came up with a new formation with two full backs, three half-backs and five forwards. Widely adopted by other teams these tactics became football’s favoured model for decades to come.

A Nottingham Forest account book of 1872 recorded the purchase of an “umpire’s whistle” but it wasn’t officially used until later. Before whistles referees would indicate decisions by waving a white handkerchief. The FA trailed the alternative in a match between Widdowson’s Forest and Sheffield Norfolk FC. On the back of our Sam’s feedback, the whistle was formally introduced as the go-to method for stopping a game.

Forest’s “big, weighty captain,” as the Post described him, remained a loyal red, skippering the side for 12 years and acting as chairman for five. He scored 16 goals in his 22 FA Cup games, twice making the semi-finals. During one cup tie he made quite an impression on England’s Jimmy Brown who described him as “a very terror”. Brown added, “The Reds beat us 6-0 and Widdowson didn’t bother to go round our backs; he went through them.” That same year, 1880, Widdowson made his one and only appearance for England, our centre forward scoring in a 5-4 defeat to Scotland. During the game he headed a defender’s jaw, shattering it. This was in the days before red cards or substitutions so it was Scotland that went down to ten men. Widdowson may have been a known hard man but he was more noted for his speed, once covering 100 yards of grass in 10.25 seconds. By the time Widdowson played for England he had already made a huge impact on the game. Also a renowned Notts cricketer he decided to cut down his cricket pads and use them when playing football. In doing so he created shin pads. Early observers mocked his invention but it wasn’t long before they joined suit, getting their

Widdowson didn’t stop there. The referees whistle, goal nets and floodlights are all among the developments he had a hand in.

Respected for his football nous he later became a member of the FA council - for which he founded the Amateur Cup - and a referee. In 1891 he officiated the first ever match in which goal nets were used. As for floodlights, it was Widdowson that promoted the idea of night matches played under the lights, experimenting with regular games between Forest and Notts, first with gas then electricity. Football didn’t pay the bills and Widdowson was fortunate to come from a wellknown family of Hucknall entrepreneurs. It was his father who gave him the name Sam Weller Widdowson after his favourite fictional character Sam Weller, Charles Dickens’ wonderful creation from his first novel The Pickwick Papers. Widdowson did make his own money, from the local lace industry, and he established The Picture Palace on the High Road in 1913. Our saviour of shins died in Beeston in 1927. His legacy to football lives on. Some great pics of The Picture Palace via http:// www.beeston-notts.co.uk/palace.htm JB

BOING!

JOHN BAIRD It's a little known fact that a Beestonian practically invented modern football and then went and established Beeston's first purpose-built cinema. John Baird introduces our own renaissance man, Sam Weller Widdowson...

The Picture Palace in about 1935, just before it was rebuilt.

The re-built Palace in its last days - about 1960. Early shin pads!

Barton's Bus

of Bricks The Lego legend is back...

Now the lad and dad team have produced another brick-based bit of local interest, a classic Bartons double decker. To the untrained eye it may look like a Routemaster bus, but it is in fact a slightly different model, a Bridgemaster.

The model contains some cool features including an engine under the bonnet, an opening driver’s door, and also the ability to turn round the destination blind to alter the destinations. The model is currently residing in the window of one of the Bartons buildings opposite the college tram stop, alongside the Hallams model.

births

anniversaries

Supper

Jonathan and Angela (nee Brunch) are delighted to announce the arrival of fresh twin boys at City Hospital, Pie and Pea.

engagements

Radge

Chips – Fish

Charlie and Cheryl Chips were surprised to hear that their daughter Betty has agreed to marry Marlin, after overhearing a conversation about it in The Crown. This is probably the first his family will have heard of the idea too.

marriages

Pepper – Salt

Peter and Petra Pepper are delighted to announce the engagement of Peter Jnr with Veruca, youngest daughter of Rock and Cee.

Ewan will be displaying both creations at various different places over the summer, including Beeston Carnival on Saturday 13th July. JC

Carriage – Horse

Everyone who knows them would like to express their astonishment that Dave and Sue will soon have reached 25 years of marriage. Celebration to take place in the back room of the Boat and Horses, 8pm on Saturday 5th. Will start fairly nicely but will eventually descend into the familiar argument about Dave never emptying the dishwasher. Dave will then counter by bringing up Sue’s affair from 15 years ago. Sue will stomp off in a huff, only to be followed shortly after by Dave following a threat from her brother. The party atmosphere will improve no end after this.

At Beeston Methodist Church on 4th June, Tracy and Ned tied the knot. Here’s to a virtually guaranteed life of love and marriage.

special occasions Hinge

Water – Oil

Tony and Jen Water would like to cautiously but optimistically announce the engagement of their daughter Jane to David, son of Derek and Olive.

Plug – Butt

Amy and Alan, whilst on holiday in Las Vegas. They fit so well together, here’s to many happy years. From all at the QMC.

Mary would like to share her joy with the world at the fact that husband Steve has finally shaved off his frankly ridiculous beard that made him look like a long lost sailor.

... beeston council notices ... NOTICE OF APPLICATION REF No: 23278/2323/A

Beeston Borough

C O U N C I L

374 Broughton Street, Beeston – Planning permission for garage extension

SUBSCRIBE! L

EWAN COOPER

t’s been around a year since local lad Ewan Cooper revealed the Lego model of everyone’s favourite local shop – Fred Hallams – which he constructed with his father John.

... beestonian announcements ...

You can now subscrib e to the Beestonian. Just visit our spankin g new site at

beestonian.com

and click the link to ge t freshly minted copies of the Beestonian deliver ed straight to your front door!

Beeston Council has received an application in the respect of an extension to existing garage at the above address. Includes lengthening structure onto current hard standing by 2.5 metres, re-siting of access door, plus installation of anti-aircraft guns and helicopter landing pad on roof. All representations of objections to be made to Beeston Council no later than Tuesday 16th July.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION REF No: 32759/1284/G

REF No: 34349/3426/M

Beeston Borough

C O U N C I L

211 Hall Drive, Chilwell – Planning permission (commercial) for subterranean diamond mine Beeston Council has received an application in the respect of the above property, which includes commercial activity to take place at the above residential address. Namely, to sink a 400 metre mine shaft in the rear garden, plus dwellings for security guards and pit ponies. All representations of objections to be made to Beeston Council no later than Monday 18th July.

C O U N C I L

84 Lily Grove, Beeston Rylands – Planning permission for change of use (agricultural) for cobra farm Beeston Council has received an application in the respect of the above property, which includes change of use to agricultural activity to take place at the above residential address. Namely, the creation of a cobra farm, to include incubation unit and venom processing plant. All representations of objections to be made to Beeston Council no later than Thursday 19th July.

NOTICE OF INTENTION REF No: 73748/4593/B

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

Beeston Borough

C O U N C I L

Town of Beeston and surrounding environs – Declaration of independent sovereign state Beeston Council is obliged to inform all citizens that from 1st August 2019, The land containing Beeston, Chilwell, Attenborough, Bramcote and Toton will be formally recognised as an independent republic (Beestonia). Subjects will be required to convert all currency to the new Beeston Groat, and register for passports from offices on Foster Avenue. Anyone intending to leave or enter Beestonia will be required to pay a toll at one of the checkpoints situated at all major road junctions plus any potential crossing points on the Trent. All representations of objections to be made to Beeston Council no later than Wednesday 20th July.

MATT TURPIN An interview with a 'busy bastard'...

Jonny Owen

he first thing you notice about Jonny Owen is his beaming smile – the sort of shining grin that instantly makes you feel a bit special in his presence. Next is the handshake and then the deeply rich Merthyr accent, sculpted from a childhood in the Welsh coal-belt.

We’re at his workplace, the slightly shabby looking Nottingham Forest football ground. He’s in a good mood: the season is drawing to an end and despite a play-off place being elusive, the potential is vast and a plan to redevelop the stadium has just been announced. Also, the finale of Line of Duty starring his fiancée Vicky McClure is due to air at the weekend, "things are crazy with all that now” he says, before the smile flashes again "She’s the nation’s sweetheart”.

He continued to juggle acting (he was a regular on Shameless) and documentary shorts, before writing, producing and starring in an internet series, Svengali, about a rock manager of an aspiring indie band. This was turned into a film, and amongst a stellar cast was a certain actor from Wollaton, Vicky McClure.

“We fell in love and set up in London together, for about a year. But Vicky is very much a Nottingham girl, and missed her home, so we decided to move up here”. And so they did, settling in Beeston. Jonny, never one to take a rest, began looking for opportunity. Handily a new TV station - Notts TV - was starting up in Nottingham, and he was instrumental in setting up their sports show. After producing a well-received short on the twice-European Cup winning Forest team of 1979 and 1980, Baby Cow productions asked him to scale it into a full-length feature. The astounding I Believe in Miracles was born. The Beestonian screened it for a charity fundraiser a few years ago, with Garry Birtles dropping by to talk to the audience. It’s a brilliant film, and even if you don’t support Forest – even if you don’t like football – it’s absolutely fascinating. “Brian Clough is, to me, like Muhammed Ali. The Greatest. A man who had vision and rose from working class roots to inspire a whole city while never compromising an inch. He gave a city pride when it was being badly kicked”. Fittingly, he was appointed a director at Forest, overseeing the club’s film and media output, a role he clearly loves.

“Irvine Welsh... told him he should start producing.”

So what is Jonny doing on the hallowed Forest turf? What has bought him to Beeston, and caused him to settle down here? He’s had quite a life, taking in at least three careers and much excellence, so why has he found a home with us here in Beeston?

“I started as a boxer (he shares a name with one of Wales most famous pugilists, who tragically died after a particularly vicious bout), I really enjoyed that – I was Welsh Boys Champion - but then got into music and about 16 decided to be a rock star” In what would prove to be a rather signature Jonny Owen fashion, instead of just dreaming about it he went and did it. “I was in a band called The Pocket Devils, on bass and singing, writing the songs and that. We were doing ok, never cracked the Top 40 but were getting there. Then I was spotted by Welsh telly and asked to on the cast of popular Welsh drama Nuts and Bolt”. Finding acting more to his taste than music (“bands have a shelf-life. Acting is a career to develop”) he went for, and got, roles in TV shows and music videos. “I did a few of those, great fun. I was in a video for Keane that was shown on the last edition of Top of the Pops,” He also met Irvine Welsh while filming a promo for Gene; the Trainspotting author told him he should get the other side of the camera and start producing, so Jonny, never one to see limits to his ambitions, did just that. The results were award –winning: his 2006 documentary marking the 40th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster won a Welsh BAFTA, cementing his position as a brilliant documentarian.

The film was a huge commercial – the bestselling sports film of 2015 – and critical success, and Jonny joined the ranks of those – such as Brian Clough, Shane Meadows and Edwin Starr – who have moved to this corner of the world and flourished. What does he think of Beeston? “I love it. It feels like home. It’s a place you can go out on a night, with Vicky, with Shane, and people just are kind to you, say hello. I like The Hop Pole, I like The Berliner…it has great pubs, coffee shops. It feels like a community. It feels like home”. With so much on – he’ll be getting married to Vicky next year – I’m surprised he has time to slip out for the odd pint or flat white. Does he consider himself a renaissance man? ‘Ha, no! I prefer the term ‘Busy Bastard’. He smiles again, a full eye-twinkler, and you realise we’re very lucky to have Jonny as a Beestonian. MT

focus on sport

Nottingham

Croquet Club

ottingham Croquet Club has been a feature of Highfields Park for 80 years and with the club being the home of the reigning croquet world champions, Paddy and Miranda Chapman, Beeston is the home of one of Nottingham’s most successful sports clubs. The club previously hosted the Women’s World Championships in 2015, which was won by Miranda and will be hosting the Under 21 Croquet World Championships in July this year. “It’s really nice to have youngsters playing because everyone has an image of croquet as being about old people which it’s not,” said club chairman Beatrice McGlen. The club are trying to bring croquet to new people and with the clubs slogan being ‘croquet for all’, Beatrice is hoping that more young people will get involved in the sport across Nottingham as they try to mirror the success that the sport has had with younger generations in New Zealand. “In the Under 21 Championships coming up, there are 24 players who have been selected by the World Croquet Federation and 10 of them are from New Zealand, which is a pretty high number,” says Beatrice. “The set up with sports and schools in New Zealand is very similar here, so we’ve got 5 local schools within the vicinity of the club who we are going to do a taster session with in June. “We’re then going to have an afterschool club on a Thursday and the idea is to set up an interschool competition with the final being played during the Under 21 Championships so they can see the world’s best young people playing whilst having their own competition. Hopefully, we will end up with a thriving junior section within the club.” Croquet is not only stereotyped as being for elderly people, but also for those who are mainly white and middle class, something which Beatrice tells me that the club are making efforts to address. “We have a Pakistani member, Ferzana Shan, she’s our only Asian member and I was saying to her one day, ‘how can we make croquet more appealing to the Asian population?’ She said one of the difficulties is actually getting

people through the gate, so last year we were invited to the Pakistani forum for the Pakistan independence day celebrations and we went along to their dinner and showed them how to play croquet. “This year we’re talking about having an evening specifically geared for Asian families. It’s a perfect sport for multi-generational families to play because you can really play from 9 to 90 without any trouble at all.” There are two types of croquet that are commonly played; association croquet which can be very tactical and requires more mental and technical skill and golf croquet which is seen as being more sociable.

ISAAC SEELOCHAN Nottingham Croquet Club are challenging perceptions of croquet in Britain

Tim King has played almost 2000 games of croquet, which he tells me is the most in the croquet ranking system. Tim will be competing in the Golf Croquet World Championships this summer and says that although it is a simple sport to play, there is more to it than people might think. “Almost anybody can start playing a competitive game of croquet in about 10 minutes, but the fascination of it comes from the tactics. There's lots of different choices, some players like to hit the ball harder and other players are really accurate and put the ball exactly where they want it to block the opponent.

18-year-old James Galpin will be competing at the Under 21 Croquet World Championships at the club in July.

“I love my cricket and football, but because I don’t have natural hand-eye coordination I was just never good enough, but in croquet I very quickly became reasonably competent. “The mental side is the one that keeps on posing a challenge. You have to learn to stay calm. When the likes of Sir Clive Woodward talk about thinking clearly under pressure, croquet is a sport where anybody of any age, gender or level of physical fitness, can go onto that court and experience what Sir Clive means. “I would say to anybody who’s not played a competitive sport before because they feel they don’t have what it takes, croquet is a sport that they can really enjoy.” Anyone interested in having a go at croquet can contact the club at http://www. nottinghamcroquet.org.uk/contact IS

focus on sport

There are often several different games of croquet being played simultaneously at the club.

- --

Beestonian London Marathon

- -- -

ISAAC SEELOCHAN Readers of the last issue will remember that Beestonian Stuart Baird was preparing to run the London marathon in aid of JDRF, a charity who are carrying out vital diabities research. I got back in touch with Stuart recently to find out how he did and this was his response…

---update--

y total raised was £3,200. I was in a team of 145 runners for JDRF and just before we set off running, we met for a photograph at Greenwich park and they told us we had raised over £400,000 collectively. This is a great contribution to the clinical trials which are working towards a cure for type 1 and interventions to make kids lives healthier until that cure is found.

them. You meet such amazing people along the way. Because of this I was in synch with a guy surrounded by high rise offices, I had lost track of mileage and as we turned right we both said together, ‘Oh, wow!’ – We had stumbled onto Tower Bridge (the half way point) by accident. I may have got something in my eye at this point.

down an underpass where no supporters can go, all you can hear is silence and runners feet for a quarter mile, but then you turn left and up the ramp out and in you’re in the city again. The high rises have tiered walkways so the noise hits you as if you’re a footballer coming out onto a stadium – unbelievable. Again, lump in the throat time.

“...those in the room all stood and clapped.”

As far for the run. Wow. If you are contemplating it and think you can do it – go for it. The support is just off the dial in London. Everyone shouting my name from the first hundred yards and for the next 4hrs 42 mins of running!

This is where the official cheer points are for all the charities – JDRF (including Helen, James and Will), Macmillan, Tommys, Dementia, Cystic Fibrosis etc – thousands of people looking for their team but supporting anyone and everyone. The noise went up several levels.

I got in ‘synch’ at one point with a few runners and chatted with

A couple of miles further down the road, the runners go

I did a good pace until 20 miles and left myself 1hr & 10 mins to do the last 10k (6 miles). I have been known to do this in 52 mins so I thought all is good. I had forgotten all the advice about fuelling – you are meant to take gels from 6 miles onwards every 20 mins because if you deplete your body and leave it late, you just feel sick all the time. I ran/walked the last four miles. More than that, I wasn’t aware that as part of the whole JDRF team (which was much bigger than my small part) the charity put on a reception in China Town and as we came into the room, there were official cheerers and those in the room all stood and clapped. There was loads of food and a sports massage. I was made to feel very special but more than that I was very aware I was just one bit of a huge team, organisers, supporters, families and friends to raise that amount of money.” Congratulations to Stuart from everyone at the Beestonian for his superb efforts. IS

focus on sport

Beeston

Sailing Club W

hen it comes to sport in Beeston, many people are aware of its football club, the hockey team and even the croquet club, but one of the town’s oldest and lesser-known sporting clubs is a sailing club. Situated just opposite Attenborough Nature Reserve, Beeston Sailing Club has a long history on the waters of the Trent since being established over 70 years ago. “It was founded in 1948, by a group of gentlemen who met in the Angel Inn,” explained club secretary Clare Bailey. “The part of the land here was actually owned by the Second Beeston Sea Scouts from around the 1920s and then in 1945/46 the lease was given to the sailing club and that’s how it was formed.” Whilst the club remains a relevant part of Beeston’s history, it has seen a sharp decline in members since the ’90s and currently has only 18 memberships.

“I think it was just lack of interest in sailing and the members were trying to keep it as a sailing club and not diversify into other things when you need to now,” says Terry. When visiting the club, there’s a real peacefulness about the place. The club sits far away from the busy roads in the area and the clubhouse is a great place for members to congregate. It’s easy to see why it would be the perfect place for sailing, but Clare and Terry make it clear that the club offers more than just sailing to its members. “We always get people who say, ‘I would love to live down here’ and I’ve said if you just want to come down for the weekend, join the sailing club. If you want to just chill out, bring your family and have a barbecue. this is a great area for birdwatching as well, with Attenborough Nature reserve just across the river” said Terry. Like any business though, if Beeston Sailing Club is to

ISAAC SEELOCHAN

Get nautical in Beeston...

survive, it needs to continue to gain more members, with operating costs making the sailing club increasingly expensive. “We are looking for new members, but it’s about how we attract them and what it is that would be interesting for them,” Clare says. “We’re sort of advertising ourselves to paddleboarders. It would be great if we had a fleet of them and canoeists. It would be really good to get local children involved as well and to be able to offer them something which is so near to them.”

Past Trophy winners

Anyone interested in joining the club can contact them at: https://en-gb.facebook.com/ beestonsailing/ IS

“We used to have 200 plus when river sailing was quite popular,” said social secretary Terry Parker, who has been a member of the club for 18 years. “I remember on a Thursday night the river used to be full of Merlin Rockets, the name of the popular boat at the time.”

The club has a proud history.

So why has the sailing club lost so many members over the past few decades?

focus on sport

DEBRA URBACZ ‘You Should be Dancing!’

Creative Beeston I

bet you didn’t know that there was a D.I.S.C.O. going down in Beeston town.

Every Wednesday a group of ‘kitchen dancers’ get together to ‘John Travolta’ and shimmy their way round the dancefloor, to disco classics such as Don’t Leave Me this Way and practically anything by the Bee Gees. The clever creation of local dance enthusiast Jo Porter, Kitchen Dancing is the sort of exercise class that will get you grooving as you keep fit and dance your cares away for a little while. Jo currently runs two classes on Wednesdays, one in the morning and one later in the evening. The morning class is a blessing. It’s the perfect antidote to a whole morning sat at a desk, maybe an energising pitstop after the school run or just an opportunity to get out and meet other retro music lovers. It’s low to medium impact so not too strenuous and you can take my word for it, it’s F.U.N! I haven’t tried the evening class yet, but my guess is it’s just as enjoyable and perhaps a little livelier. After one particularly energising class, I caught up with Jo over a coffee to chat to her about how Kitchen Dancing came about and possible plans for the future. It all started in a dance studio back in May 2017 when Jo launched her idea and tested it out on some of her friends. It proved popular, word got out and classes were launched at the Methodist Church in Chilwell in November 2017 and started to attract people from the wider community.

The Chilwell WI were keen for a demonstration and re-created a night from the 1980s, complete with legwarmers and neon lipstick. Since then the Hive WI have also enjoyed a night of Disco!

She has a strong background in the arts, with a degree from De Montfort University in French and Performing Arts and started out in Nottingham as a Maid Marian at the Tales of Robin Hood.

In case you didn’t know, ‘kitchen dancing’ itself refers to those nights when you are desperate to go out and dance but other factors such as children and/or being skint keep you in (we’ve all been there right?) A simple remedy for this is to crank up the stereo, pour yourself a drink and strut your stuff between the worktops as you prepare a meal, or as after dinner ‘the kids are in bed now’ entertainment. This doesn’t need to be restricted to the evenings though, and family kitchen dancing sessions can also be a great form of entertainment, if fact there could be one happening right now, in a street near you!

Jo’s other passion is singing, and for the past eleven years she has been a vocalist with 60s inspired Godfrey’s Grit and Soul Band, that perform regularly in Derby. After leaving her Concert Tours Manager role of 16 years for specialist tour operator Rayburn Tours, Jo decided to create her own company specialising in choir tours around the UK and Ireland with her first tour taking place this October to Stirling. She has always enjoyed feeling part of the community and got involved as a fundraiser for Christchurch Pre-school when her children were younger. During this time she co-directed two musical pantos, which were great fun to put together.

Growing up in Blackpool Jo was attracted to dancing and shows at a young age and could often be seen on stage at the Grand Theatre and the Winter Gardens. She has a huge collection of props and costumes from her childhood and still uses some of these in her family sessions on Tuesday evenings. She talks about the benefits of dancing, as well as burning calories it is a great way to use the brain and improve co-ordination – although if my left/right confusion is anything to go this might take me some time. Dancing is not just fun, it’s a great form of expression and a super mood booster! The benefits are endless, but for Jo her new venture is part of a lifestyle that fits around her family and allows her more time to get involved in the things that she enjoys most.

The inspiration for the Kitchen Dancing soundtrack is most certainly a journey through Jo’s childhood, those awkward but memorable teen years and early adulthood, times when music can play a huge part in our lives. The selection resonates well with others in the class and it’s clear that they have their favourites too. Music connects us, to other people and to out younger more carefree selves, and this can be one of its main appeals. It surprised Jo to find that not everyone ‘feels’ music the way she does and that some people do not naturally move well (or believe they don’t) and she is keen that they don’t miss out on the joy of dancing.

Word on the Street Art

ou can’t help noticing the wealth of gigantic artwork that sprung up around Beeston last summer. Most striking of all perhaps are the trio of famous Beestonians, Edwin Starr, Richard Beckinsale and Sir Paul Smith gazing down on you from the twenty-three feet high precinct walls on Station Rd. If, like us, you love what the street art has added to Beeston then you will be pleased to be informed that more is on its way! Attracting established local and international artists, our town is being rejuvenated by an overcoat of colour on the ugly areas past developments have left behind. Some of the artsists involved are pictured below - but for more information on the project - as well as it's manager Jeanie Barton please visit our website: www.beestonian.com DU

As well as the weekly classes, Jo performs at community groups and festivals and is happy to host a dance session at your celebrations. She has recently been asked to choreograph an 80s themed musical which will appear at The Guildhall in Derby in January of next year and she is particularly excited about. She describes performing as a ‘great release’ an energising activity that really enhances your mood. Her energy is infectious. Find out more about Jo’s weekly classes at www.facebook.com/ kitchendancingjo/ http://www.kitchendancing.co.uk and about her performance tours at www.soundescapesuk.com DU

Creative

Beeston

Paper Crane

JADE MOORE On Beeston's poetic soul...

POETs W

e’ve got poets, publishers, and openmic events, but what haven’t we got? A poetry collective. Well, that was the case, until two of our local poets, Chris McLoughlin and Leanne Moden decided to team up and create Paper Crane Poetry Collective. I met with Leanne to find out how it all started. The name ‘paper crane’ evokes both the idea of origami and construction/building work. It merges the two to become something that is about creativity but also about building and creating something together. That ambiguity, Leanne tells me, was an aspect of the title they both felt it was important to have. But when was the idea for Paper Crane Poets born?

“Chris approached me because he was keen to start something in Beeston,” says Leanne, “Beeston has a rich history of being a poetic hub, but it hasn’t had its own collective until now.” She follows by mentioning that as a poet, Chris is also keen to support people and get a network together to help people help

themselves. This is that network: somewhere people can come together and share their knowledge, talk, and write. “It’s a space to share ideas,” says Leanne. “A lot of what poets do, certainly in Nottinghamshire, revolves around promoting and performing, but having the time for creative practice is important.” She continues: “Writing is such a lonely business, so it’s important to have hang out with other writers, talk, share, and build each other up.” It’s these aspects of the writing life that feed into the nature of the sessions. They are participant-led, rather than being prescriptive, to allow the people attending the sessions to get exactly what they want and need from them. “Having to be more flexible with the sessions is a really nice learning experience for me,” says Leanne. She adds: “We want it to be something that’s long-term, ongoing, and supportive of people’s writing ambitions. Whether that’s for a career, or just to enjoy the social aspect of coming together and developing writing." “All perspectives and ways of approaching creativity are valid. That’s the nice part about the way Chris runs workshops, they’re really open, responsive, and kind. In the world we live in at the moment, we all need a space for that radical kindness.” There have already been a couple of sessions, with the attendees saying that they’ll definitely return. But Leanne points out that it won’t be like school: you don’t have to come to every session, you can dip in and out, and only come when it suits you. “You won’t get behind if you miss a session,” she says. “We’re just facilitating a space where people can develop their skills.” By now you might be feeling pretty excited about what Paper Crane Poets has to offer, but you don’t know what to expect. It’ll be a two-hour session, which will include writing activities and editing sessions. “We’ll steer our way through what people want,” says Leanne. “It’s workshop meets crit group meets supportive space to share ideas.” Continued...

POETRY ROUND-UP POTTLE POETRY

First Sunday of the month Pottle of Blues micropub 4-6pm A free, open mic poetry afternoon, everyone welcome! Chris and Leanne also have a few ideas of what the future might hold for the collective. “In the first six months we want to work towards the Inspire Poetry Festival in September, and there’s scope for a performance as Paper Crane Poets. It’s nice to have that opportunity for people to work towards that if they want to. “We may bring in guest workshop leaders to talk about specific skills. Talking with theatre practitioners can help with ways to get your work to be more performative. One thing that Chris does is use multimedia elements such as music and lights, and if people were interested, we would have a chat about how to incorporate different pieces into creative practice.” But the most important thing that this collective needs to thrive are writers. That’s you! Whether you’re a regular performer, or just getting started, Paper Crane Poets welcomes you. And although they are Beeston-based, you don’t have to live in NG9. “We’re keen for it to be open to everybody, not just a place for people who are already writing and already on the poetry scene: we’d like to see a mix of people. Come and say hello!”

INSPIRE POETRY FESTIVAL

Monday 23 September – Saturday 28 September Beeston Library Featuring celebrated poetry stars, regional favourites and cutting-edge newcomers, and with styles ranging from the formal lyric to freestyle spoken word, this year’s festival promises a plethora of poetry delights at venues around the county.

PAPER CRANE POETS

Every other Tuesday, Beeston Library 5:30-7:30pm, 18+ Paper Crane Poets is a brand new poetry collective, hosted by local poets Chris McLoughlin and Leanne Moden! We're looking forward to building a group of writers who collaborate, encourage, and support each other.

The sessions will take place every other Tuesday in at Beeston Library in the Discovery room (just to the left of the main entrance). At the moment it’s over 18s only, but if there’s a demand for a youth focus, then that could alter in future. They also have a ‘pay how you feel’ structure, to cover their resources and time, but they hope eventually to explore funding streams. “That will be further down the line when we’ve proved it’s something people want,” says Leanne. “And if you aren’t able to contribute, don’t feel that it’s a barrier. It’s more important for people to come and enjoy what we’re offering and for them to be a part of a community that’s as accessible as possible.” If you’re interested in attending a session but want to send Leanne and Chris a message beforehand, then you can email them on papercranepoets@gmail.com Paper Crane Poets runs every other Tuesday from 5:30pm-7:30pm, at Beeston Library. The next session will be 2nd July. JM

The Beestonian is...

Lead Writer/Founder • Lord Beestonia Co-Founder/Resident Don • Prof J Editor • Christian Design & The Beest • Dan Business Manager • Jade History Editor • Joe Earp

Top-notch contributors this issue:

Matt Turpin, Dan Cullen, Scott Bennett, Tim Sexton, John Cooper, Christopher Frost, Matt Jones, Debra Urbacz, John Baird, Jo Earp, Jade Moore, Isaac Seelochan and Lulu Davenport

'Bee-Man' Darren Kirkbride Bee Man, high street made. Envisioned by Steve Hodges, Eternally stone. Mother's watch kids play Against his hive, no bees fly, Now, nor ever did.

Stockists: Berliner, The Hive, Rye, The Hop Pole, The Crown, The White Lion,

The Star, Mish Mash Gallery, The Malt Shovel, Broadgate Laundrette, Bubba Tea, The Bean, Beeston Library, Cafe Roya, Metro, Beeston Marina Bar and Cafe, Attenborough Nature Reserve, The Pottle, Greenhood, Beeston Nursery, The Victoria, Canalside Heritage Centre, Beeston Community Shop (formally Thorntons), Oxfam Books, L’Oliva, Two Little Magpies, Local not Global, John Flynn Opticians, Out of this World, lots of hairdressers and suchlike. ... If you’d like to be a stockist, let us know by emailing thebeestonian@gmail.com

, Art For Art s Sake CHRISTOPHER FROST An interview with Paul Swift at Synergy NG9...

rt in all its forms can make life fun, exciting and interesting. Beeston is of course a very creative town. One that’s awash with painters, sculptors, designers, photographers, musicians, knitters and other artistic types. We even have lots of street art now, which has made some grim looking walls more pleasant to look at, and all down to the foresight and persistence of local jazz singer Jeanie Barton. Of course all these artists need an outlet for their creations. One of the best is the ABC Art Trail that takes place this year at the beginning of June. They also need somewhere to learn their craft, or to gain new skills. One place in Chilwell is aiming to do that, and goes by the name of Synergy NG9. I met up with co-owner Paul Swift at the former shop of Stylistic Upholstery on Attenborough Lane, to chat about the aims and vision for the building. When I arrived, a creative glass workshop was taking place, led by local glass artist Rebecca Cass, who created the B’oscar awards for the Beeston Film Festival, which is now in its fifth year. Chatting over a cup of tea, Paul told me that he, furniture upcycler Charlotte Williams of ‘Not Too Shabby’ and Matt Ashdown from ‘The Ugly Duckling Company’ got together to discuss the idea of a creative hub for the area. One that would be there for the community to use. Both Charlotte and Matt had taken units at the now defunct Hive building in Beeston, but were looking for somewhere bigger. “We got the keys in late August 2018, and opened for business in the October. There was a fair bit of work to do. But we are happy with the result. I was with Nottinghamshire County Council for 25 years, but got disillusioned with how things were being run. So this is a complete change for me”. There’s quite a wide range of activities presently on offer include painting, papercraft, poetry and music. “We also offer holistic wellbeing courses, such as Yoga, Pilates, dancing, mindfulness, coaching and networking. The space can also be used for events, creative children’s parties. We are really pleased to be part of this year’s ABC Art Trail. Synergy is a member of the Federation of Small Business, and we hold monthly meetings here, which is a great opportunity for networking. We have wi-fi and anyone can hire a desk for a day, so they can conduct their business in a quiet, relaxed manner Synergy can be hired for co-working or collaborative uses”.

With concerns now growing about the state of the natural world, being an eco-friendly place is high on Paul’s list of priorities. “When we took on the place, I wanted it to be as green as possible. So we’ve installed LED lighting, energy efficient heating, run a water refill scheme and upcycle or recycle as much as we can. We also source goods as locally as we can and encourage people to come here by bus or cycle”. Talking of sourcing goods, I saw that Synergy NG9 stock Fusion Mineral Paint. For those that don’t know, the paint is generally used by upcyclers and DIYer’s to decorate old pieces of furniture. There are some 50 colours in the range, and the paint is non-toxic, lead free, contains no ammonia, formaldehyde or Volatile Organic Compounds and is more or less odourless. “We are the only stockist in Nottinghamshire”, replied Paul proudly. “It’s an area that we’d like expand on. Selling vegan snacks and products from local artists. At the moment we have a small exhibition of photographs from John J. Nicol. He is a counsellor by profession, but he also does photography. We also like to do our bit for local charities. For instance, last December we organised a Christmas get together for lonely people in the area. We sold mince pies etc. and raised some welcome funds for Operation Orphan”. Finally I ask Paul about possible plans for the future. “ We have quite a varied calendar for June, with a soap making workshop, a women’s poetry evening and some comedy and music, to say just a few. But we are always looking for new artists or teachers to join us. We’d really like someone to teach needlework for instance”. Next-door is the former Fontana Garden takeaway, which is currently empty and available to rent. I asked Paul if they have any plans to expand. “Not at the moment, but it would make a lovely café and could compliment what we are doing”. Should you want to know more about what Synergy NG9 can offer in the way of workshops or workspaces, then they are situated on 60 Attenborough Lane in Chilwell, NG9 5JW. Mobile: 07501 453628. If you want to know what workshops or courses are coming up, then do check out their Facebook page (@ Synergy NG9) for the latest news and a link to Paul’s blog. CF

The Boer War

Memorial

he Boer War Memorial marks a largely forgotten war, known as 'The Second Boer War', - or 'The South African War' as it was called at the time, was fought in South Africa between 11th October 1899 and 31st May 1902.

The protagonist were Britain and two Boer States, the 'South African Republic', (Republic of Transvaal) and the 'Orange Free State'. Although Britain was aided by troops from two of its African Colonies, - 'Cape Colony,' and the Colony of Natal, - some native African allies and volunteers from its Empire, all other nations, European and African, were officially neutral. With hostile public and political opinion both here and abroad, the Boer War was deeply unpopular. Perhaps this is one of the reasons it has been a conflict 'airbrushed' out of history. Despite any public hostility, the Country managed to produce some remarkable individual monuments in remembrance of ordinary men, who as soldiers, paid the ultimate sacrifice in 'doing their duty' for Queen and Country. Not least amongst these memorials is Beeston's life-size statue of 'Hope', personified as a classically draped, female figure. The figure holds a laurel wreath to her chest in her left hand, and rests her right arm on a swagged plinth. Made from white 'Portland Stone', she is stood upon a three-stepped plinth, above the pedestal's projecting cornice which has egg and dart moulding. The memorial was designed after an open competition, by local (Chilwell) architect, Arthur Marshall.

Private Arthur Vlliers 2nd Grenadier Guards died at Pretoria of entric Lance-Corporal Frank Stapleton 4th Derbyshire Regiment killed at Rhenoster

Private George Hallam Williams 12th Company Imerial Yeomanry South Notts Hussars died at Nauport of entric

The memorial was unveiled in-front of a large crowd, in February 1904, by Colonel Sir Lancelot Rolleston D.S.O., - himself a hero of the Boer War, - who was one of Nottinghamshires most distinguished figures. It formally stood in the Square immediately in front of Beeston's first Town Hall. In 1912, when the Square was renovated, it was moved out of the Town centre to stand out-side of the High Road entrance to 'Broadgate' Recreation Ground. For close on 100 years the memorial was a familiar landmark standing by the side of the High Road just off the pavement. Time and the elements had taken their toll. Its stone was crumbling and most of the inscription had faded away. Suddenly, early in 2007 the memorial disappeared only to reappear looking refreshed and almost as good as new. The statue and plinth had been painstakingly restored and on 31st March 2007, it was rededicated on a new especially prepared site within the park. JE

PROFESSIONAL TUNING AT A COMPETITIVE PRICE

This memorial was erected by public subscription to the honoured memory of Beeston soldiers who lost their lives during the Boer campaign, 1899-1902, in the cause of a United Empire.

Private William Taft Killed at Roodevale

Beeston’s secret history...

Private John William Cunnington 12th Company Imperial Yeomanry South Notts Hussars killed at Lindley

The dedication inscription on the front face of the pedestal clearly states the Imperialistic nature of the war:

Dedicated to five men from Beeston, the inscription the 'Role of Honour' is of a conventional form and reads:

JOSEPH EARP

Nottingham, Derby & Leicester 07528322262 christianafox@msn.com FB: Christian Fox Piano Tuning foxpianotuningnottingham.wordpress.com

The

1a Devonshire Avenue, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1BS

Commonwealth

Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.30pm Saturday 9am to 5pm

of beeston W

Established in Beeston, Nottingham over 70 years ago, John Flynn Opticians is located on the corner of the leafy Devonshire Avenue and Chilwell High Road (opposite corner to Ellis-Fermor & Negus Solicitors). Director and senior Optometrist at John Flynn Opticians, Dr Sheeraz Janjua is one of only 25 Optometrists in the UK to be awarded the degree of Doctor of Optometry from Aston University for his research in Dry Eye Syndrome. He was also one of a select few nominated for the Optometrist of the Year award in 2018. Having been at the helm in Beeston since 2016, Dr. Janjua provides both private and NHS patients with the option to benefit from an enhanced eye examination using an OCT instrument to produce macular, retinal and optic nerve scans to aid early diagnosis of various ocular conditions.

With over 45 years of experience between us we have 2 goals: Provide a friendly, welcoming, homely environment with a passion for great customer service and to combine the best ophthalmic lenses from some of the most respected lens manufacturer’s alongside some of the finest hand-made frames from around the world.

The Importance Of Wearing Sunglasses In The Summer

Don’t take our word for it – here’s what our patients are saying about us:

Wear sunglasses this summer, not just as a fashion accessory but most importantly to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

“I was recommended to go to John Flynn Optician by family members. I love everything about the practice and I will now only ever use John Flynn’s. The glasses are well made, well fitted and I can see much better. My eye examination with Dr. Janjua was very informative and he put me at ease - very good. All the team at John Flynn’s have treated me well and I cannot fault them.”

N VO VE EA

Beeston Parish Church

E NU

“I came to John Flynn Optician through a recommendation from a friend and have never been to another opticians. My eye examination was thorough and explained to me very clearly. The team at John Flynns are very helpful and cheerful. Carry on the good work.”

We’ve all experienced glare in our daily lives whether it be driving in a car with the sun reflecting off the dashboard, road, windscreen and bonnet or the sun illuminating the surface of the water while spending the day at the beach. Usually glare is annoying and uncomfortable on the eyes, but when the angle of reflection is just right the glare can become blinding and often downright dangerous, as in the case of driving a vehicle.

“I’d heard that the glasses were great quality and the service was great at John Flynn Optician. The staff have been very helpful and gave me all the facts I needed. I love the personal touch and that you don’t have to ask for help - it’s just given. I love my new glasses - the style, the colour, the quality - everything. Dan and Annette have been brilliant from the minute I walked in the door. They are very friendly and provided perfect service in every way. I will be coming back and will share my experience with others.”

RO AD

Polarised lenses

But at a local level, when Her Majesty is busy elsewhere, what about those areas where elected representatives of the people have used public funds to provide places for the use of the people, but where the original intentions have become somewhat lost or forgotten? I’m thinking now of the Town Hall, which was recently sold off by councillors saying things like “I as a council tax payer in the north of the borough am sick and tired of putting money into Beeston Town Hall” and telling us that the £85,000 yearly running costs could be put to better use elsewhere, without actually publicising a persuasive costbenefit and/or risk analysis.

CH ILW EL L

We are all aware of how hazardous the sun can be for our skin, leaving behind spots or lines causing premature aging. Of course the biggest danger is skin cancer including eyelid cancer, your eyelids are thin and sensitive pieces of skin that are just as susceptible to skin cancer as the other parts of your body that are exposed to the sun. However, many people don’t realize that the sun is just as damaging to the fragile organs that are our eyes including short and long-term eye damage such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and other sunrelated eye diseases. Remember Sunglasses are not all created equal, all of our sunglasses/perscritption sun lenses offer upto 100% UV protection and bigger lenses are even better as they offer even more coverage of the sensitive eye area.

ho really owns Beeston? Some might argue that ultimately it’s the Queen (via the Crown Estates) because technically speaking she owns any Commonwealth land that she reigns over, which might make her the biggest landowner on the planet.

Don’t forget we offer a 50% discount on your second set of lenses including all of our polarised lenses. T&C’s apply.

CA EW

L ST

E AV

We also dispense specialist lenses for people with vision loss related to Glaucoma, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Degeneration (AMD).

MID

Pharmacy

B6 46 4

Ordinary tinted sunglass lenses only cut down on the ambient light that reaches the eye but by their very nature, they cannot block glare only polarised lenses can block out this dangerous,often blinding glare, they can also enhance visual acuity, colour contrast and visual comfort, blocking 100% of harmful UVA/B light.

Pharmacy

Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5:30pm. Saturday 9am-5pm John Flynn Opticians welcomes the registration of new patients and parking is available in the practice’s own car park. Telephone 0115 9255051 to make an appointment. enquiries@johnflynnopticians.co.uk www.johnflynnopticians.co.uk Want to stay up to date with the latest news and arrivals?why not follow us on Instagram and Facebook @johnflynnopticians

0115 925 5051

ES TRE

B64

And those of us who were involved in the 2010/13 campaign to ensure that Middle Street Resource Centre was not lost to public use know that sometimes it’s only when we’re about to lose a treasured resource that we do the work to understand its ownership, and find out what we need to do to keep it. Certainly, if all property owners were well-intentioned, we’d always be given the time and the information we need to present viable alternatives to the public losing out, but this sadly ain’t so when all that matters is the need to relieve a maddening itch caused by an ideologicallydriven fiscal policy. And what is the use of an impressive ‘bottom line’ in the context of public services anyway……was money made for mankind, or mankind for money? But I’m not taking up space in this lovely publication to try and turn back the clock. I’m thinking forward to Saturday July 13th, when anyone who cares about the Beeston area and its public facilities can come and show their support and affection, and make a declaration about what is meaningful to them via the procession we know as the Beeston Carnival.

KAREN MEDD This is our Commonwealth The participants usually congregate first of all in front of the Town Hall which this year will, sadly, have lost much of its significance as the heart of our local democracy. The processing part begins in The Square at noon then moves along our pedestrianised High Street, terminating at Broadgate Park where there will be more events and stalls, with additional activities at the Middle Street Resource Centre. All these aforementioned gathering spaces, when properly used for trading and recreation and entertainment, perform a critical function in our local economy, improving our quality of life and enabling social cohesion. This all boosts our position in the country, and so we’d all suffer if they are not cherished. Our annual carnival is a way for us to demonstrate and showcase what we have to offer, so let’s not forget that this year and for the last 14 years, we’ve had this opportunity because a local couple decided to commit themselves and their personal energies to resurrecting this great event. Well done Lynda and Pat Lally. The Commonwealth of Beestonia would be poorer without you. KM

WORLD-CLASS CHAMBER MUSIC IN NOTTINGHAM

LULU DAVENPORT Dropped the ball

y yup fellow Beatsonites, this rather fantastic issue of The Beestonian centers on the theme of sport, a subject matter I am not even afraid to say I know nothing about, I repeat NOTHING. The sheer mention of football, rugby and erm the others? I feel I have developed a ‘game’ face as such, a vague emotionless expression that I have no idea where the conversation is going or even most times which activity the players (even teams sometimes) are involved in the discussion. In fact one of my closest friends has coached me to say the supporting phrase in an out of depth discussion that requires my input, which goes as follows “Go Sports!” this acts as a deterrent and conceals my sporting stupidity, no one suspects a thing. Faced with the impending theme for this issue kinda filled me with dread, how can music and sport even remotely be paired up? Then it hit me like a wayward puck? (the ball thing) from ice hockey, I follow music and entertainment with all the excitement of an avid sportsman, my fixtures are gig listings which I mostly always flick straight away to read when I pick up a paper. We identify our fellow gig goers and teammates through band name t-shirts as football supporters do, knowing not to wear the wrong tee to the wrong ground (see my One Direction shirt wearer goes to Bloodstock article, filed under: never happened / possible potential hazard). The money situation too, although there are no season tickets, a day ticket for Download will bring tears to anyone’s eyes, while desperately attempting to sell organs in an attempt to raise funds. It gets tricky though, being an entertainment enthusiast means continually tracking down the next big adventure and while having a wide selection of musical taste is slightly easier I sometimes think where will it lead? I mean this, as if in a football supporter situation, faced with winning the (Google

search) UEFA Champions League is there anywhere to go after that? Can you ever topple that high? For me seeing Linkin Park perform the amazing EP Hybrid Theory in its entirety at the hallowed ground of Download or managing to see The Prodigy at their last tour in Nov '18 in Nottingham are both memories that cannot be toppled, however can you ever relive the highest highs? Am I the fan sat in the corner talking about past glories? The answer I believe is forever pushing forward, take the other weekend for example the first bank holiday in May, the Friday I headed over to Victory club and caught a punk set by Two Guitar Clash and did my best pogo on the dance floor to some Sex Pistols covers, Saturday I bounded on a train outta the area to Sheffield to the 90s festival where I saw (I am committing professional suicide here) DJ Luck and MC Neat (re-rewind) alongside some absolutely legendary DJs from the era, Paul Oakenfold, Judge Jules and Todd Terry, if you are still reading am glad I didn’t lose you after the first confession - oh, did I mention the Artful Dodger? I'll show myself out… Sunday was time to chill out and headed back to Beeston and Victory Club as Mr. CJ Jackson was performing and a dose of soulful motown classics was a welcome change of direction. Monday entailed a quick wobble over to Beeston Marina to see Eba The Reggae Man with some... hardcore death metal!! No not really it was reggae. Although I can never one up the highlights I’ve already experienced in my pursuit of entertainment keeping an eye constantly cast onto the current happenings and occasionally seeking out some forms of things to do its better than throwing in the towel and admitting defeat, growing up? Not likely, ooo The Specials at Splendour? Shut up and take my money… LD

What is Your music?

12-14 July 2019

Schedule 12 July 3:00pm Leonore Piano Trio 12 July 7:30pm Villiers Quartet From Russia with Love 13 July 11:00am Hansel & Gretel Family Concert 13 July 3:00pm Keys to the Universe

Theatre Royal, Foyer Space Nottingham High School, Recital Hall St. Peter’s Church Nottingham High School, Recital Hall

13 July 7:30pm Onyx Brass 14 July 11:30am Chamber Music Seminar 14 July 4:30pm Villiers Quartet - Americana!

www.nottchamberfest.com

Delilah Fine Foods Nottingham High School, Recital Hall Nottingham High School, Recital Hall

Tickets available online or at the Nottingham Tourism Centre, 1-4 Smithy Row, NG1 2BY | Phone 0115 876 2970 Concerts at Theatre Royal, Nottingham High School, Delilah Fine Foods, & St. Peter’s Church

CODEWORD#64 Five star childcare

in the hear t of our community

beestumped

THIS IS IT: THE HARDEST QUIZ IN BEESTON! DO NOT SPILL ITS PINT!

1. Which band released the song “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” in 2004? 2. T he lead singer of that band was also the creator of which Netflix show based on his comic of the same name? 3. One of the leads of that show also starred in Misfits. What is his name? 4. That actor also starred in a film based on which book series first published in 2001? 5. T he name of that title comes from a line in which Shakespearian play? 6. Sir Laurence Olivier is famous for what now controversial make-up choice for the 1965 film of that play? 7. M ore recently that make-up was employed by which Australian comedian for his TV show Angry Boys? 8. S imilarly which English author and one time comedian was also criticised for use of blackface on the BBC? 9. T hat author has often been compared to a modern day who? 10. Finally one of that author’s most famous stories was turned into a film starring Rhea Pearlman. Who played her character’s daughter?

Call us now on

ANSWERS: My Chemical Romance/Umbrella Academy/Robert Sheehan/ Mortal Engines/Othello/blackface/Chris Lilley/David Walliams/Roald Dahl/Mara Wilson

0115 7750185 c heck o N e w w ut t h e e bs it e!

www.beestonian.com thebeestonian@gmail.coM

to book a visit and find out why our families c heck love us! o www.beestonnursery.co.uk N e w ut t h e w e bs i

te!

www.beestonian.com thebeestonian@gmail.coM

into Nottingham

from search indigo