Nottingham Now 106

Issue. 106 - November - 2021 0115 6972670 | www.nottingham-now.co.uk | sales@nottingham-now.co.uk

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Launch Of Increased Environmental Enforcement

Four Gedling Borough Parks Recognised With Green Flag Awards

SEE PAGE 4 ..

Dining Out: Hart’s Style SEE PAGE 8 ..

Newark and Sherwood District Council’s partnership with Waste Investigations, Support and Enforcement (WISE) has launched this week with a total of 29 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) already being handed out. As part of a new strategy to deter people who litter, graffiti, fly-tip or leave dog mess, offenders are being warned: “don’t do it and we won’t be after you”.

READ MORE ON PAGE 3 ..

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Swift Arrest Over Attempted Robbery At Shop A would-be robber fled a store empty handed after the shopkeeper told him police were on the way.

The man had entered a convenience store in Commercial Road, Bulwell, and demanded the shopkeeper hand over cigarettes. When the shopkeeper asked the man whether he was going to pay, he replied “no” and threatened to pull out a knife, although a weapon was not seen by the victim. The shopkeeper told him she had discreetly alerted police and that made him leave.

A Response team arrived minutes later and took down a description of the suspect. Officers then searched the area and a short time later arrested a 30-yearold man on suspicion of attempted robbery, which happened shortly after 3pm on Wednesday (27 October).

Once in custody, the suspect was further arrested on suspicion of criminal damage after a camera inside a police cell was smashed.

PC Holly Gascoyne, who is investigating the incident, said: “Robbery is a serious offence and we will always look to take appropriate action against offenders.

“Officers did a fantastic job to quickly locate and arrest a suspect a short time after the incident was reported and he remains in police custody.

“Nottinghamshire Police takes these types of offences very seriously and will always strive to put suspects before the courts."

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New ‘Ambassador’ To Lead On Council’s Net Zero Ambition Nottinghamshire County Council has appointed Councillor Mike Adams as its first ‘Environment Ambassador’ ahead of the UN’s Climate Change Conference (COP26) starting on Sunday in Glasgow.

The Environment Ambassador will lead on the county council’s ambition to become carbon neutral in all its activities by 2030 after it declared a climate emergency in May. The council has already commissioned a new greenhouse gas report to pinpoint where carbon emissions are greatest across its buildings and services. Once complete, a targeted plan will be put in place to reduce these emissions.

It is also set to transfer its electricity supply to a green tariff which will provide energy exclusively from renewables thereby avoiding fossil fuels.

Cllr Adams said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed the county council’s first Environment Ambassador. It is a big responsibility and one I take very seriously.

“We were already working towards carbon neutrality in our buildings, but the climate emergency declaration provided a clear signal of our commitment to Nottinghamshire’s environment.

“I’m going to be rolling my sleeves up to make sure we meet our promise to become carbon neutral by 2030 – it is an opportunity we can’t miss.

“I’m really glad to have taken up this role with COP26 just around the corner too.”

The Environment Ambassador will also work closely with partner organisations to deliver local climate friendly projects to help the UK reach its ambition of reaching net zero as a country by 2050.

This includes working with Greenwood Community Forest to deliver the DEFRAfunded ‘Trees for Climate’ programme, which will see at least 250 hectares of new woodlands created across the county in the next five years.

The county council has committed to planting

250,000 trees on its own land and is also working closely with the three other D2N2 highway local authorities to develop cycling and walking infrastructure for the benefit of both the environment and tourism.

Cllr Adams added: “Our climate emergency declaration promised we would secure net zero emissions in all our activities, but we want to go further and contribute to carbon neutrality across the UK. “We have got some fantastic joint projects in the pipeline like the Trees for Climate scheme, where we have already planted the first five

hectares of new woodland and will be planting a further 60 hectares this autumn and winter.

“I’m looking forward to working with our partners to help deliver a cleaner and greener future for both Nottinghamshire and our country.”

Man Due In Court Over Alleged Drug And Knife Possession A man is due in court as police continue to crack down on drug and knife crime.

Members of Nottinghamshire Police’s road crime team followed a car in Carlton and arrested a man after the vehicle came to a stop at around 1.45pm on Saturday (23 October 2021).

Andrew Bates, 54, of Coronation Walk, Gedling, has been charged with possession of a Class A drug, namely crack cocaine, and possession of a knife in a public place.

He was released on bail and is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 24 November 2021.

Neighbourhood Inspector Chris Pearson, of Nottinghamshire Police,

said: “I’d like to reassure the public that we take drug and knife crime extremely seriously and investigate all reports.

“Our work is ongoing to tackle and reduce crime in response to community concerns and to keep our communities safe.

This includes a dedicated

operation which is continuing in the area to combat drug crime.”

If you have any information about drug dealing in the community then please report this to Nottinghamshire Police on 101 or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Gedling Access Road Set For Completion In Spring 2022 Progress on the Gedling Access Road is continuing at pace despite challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and is set to be opened in spring 2022.

Once complete, the new 3.8km route will reduce congestion through Gedling village for motorists and local residents and will enable the sustainable redevelopment of the former Gedling Colliery/

Chase Farm site, which includes the construction of 1,050 new homes.

Since construction began in January 2020, teams have been busy with excavation works, surfacing, roundabout construction, habitat enhancement for local wildlife and drainage works.

The new route was initially programmed to take 18 months to complete but is

now set to open in spring 2022. This revised timescale is due to the various knockon effects caused largely by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Councillor Ben Bradley MP, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The Gedling Access Road is a major investment for Nottinghamshire and we are proud that we have made a significant amount of

progress on the project despite the challenges we have faced.

“Back in March 2020 we could have halted works, as was the case with many other projects at the time. If we’d done that, the Gedling Access Road would have been many more months behind schedule, but we chose to press on, and that was the right choice.

“In the circumstances, just an extra few months on a project that’s been in the pipeline for several decades, delivered during a global pandemic, is a pretty good effort in my view and I am very proud that we are the ones delivering this for people in Gedling.

The road will make a huge difference to motorists who will notice faster journey times, and local residents, who will benefit from less congestion through Gedling Village and for the further investment it will unlock in the area.

“I want to thank local residents for their patience and understanding about the project.

We are really looking forward to completing the scheme soon, and delivering its benefits for local people and Nottinghamshire as a whole.”

Launch Of Increased Environmental Enforcement Newark and Sherwood District Council’s partnership with Waste Investigations, Support and Enforcement (WISE) has launched this week with a total of 29 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) already being handed out.

As part of a new strategy to deter people who litter, graffiti, fly-tip or leave dog mess, offenders are being warned: “don’t do it and we won’t be after you”.

In the first 24 hours, FPNs were issued for a series of illegal activity including littering after the areas of Averham, Balderton and Newark were patrolled.

The one-year pilot project with the private sector company involves its team of enforcement officers patrolling known problem areas throughout the district seven days a week, 12 hours a day. An additional 185 hours will be spent each week issuing FPNs to those who commit environmental offences, supporting the District Council’s already strong team of community and environmental protection officers. The significant increase in enforcement officers able to act on behalf of the District Council highlights the Council’s commitment to catching perpetrators who blight our communities with eyesores such as dropped cigarette butts and dog mess. Councillor Roger Jackson, Chairman of the Leisure and Environment

Committee at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The amount of people who think it is acceptable to drop litter, fly-tip, spray graffiti or fail to pick up after their dogs is staggering and completely unacceptable.

“By partnering with WISE we are delivering on our commitment to keeping our communities cleaner for those who live, work and visit here.

In the last year we’ve increased the number of litter bins and dog bins so there is no excuse. Don’t do it and we won’t be after you.” Managing Director at Waste Investigations, Support and Enforcement, John Dunne, said: “We’re very much looking forward to working in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council. We will operate a robust but always

proportionate methodology to tackle the issue of littering and dog fouling. Our officers have been instructed to communicate openly with the community with the overall aim of inclusivity for the Newark and Sherwood community to play their part in the task ahead.”

Anyone can report environmental crimes such as fly-tips, littering, dog fouling or graffiti online using the Newark and Sherwood District Council website or by calling the District Council on 01636 650 000.

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Four Gedling Borough Parks Recognised With Green Flag Awards Gedling Country Park, Arnot Hill Park, Burton Road Jubilee Park and for the second year, Bestwood Country Park, joined a record number of parks and green spaces collecting a Green Flag Award - the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

Arnot Hill Park retains the award for the 15th consecutive year, Gedling Country Park for the 6th year in a row, Burton Road Jubilee received the award for the sixth time and Bestwood Country Park has received the award for the second year in a row since

the management of the park was taken over by Gedling Borough Council.

The four parks in Gedling Borough join over 2,000 sites across the country in collecting the award for 2021.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by

environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making these sites worthy of a Green Flag Award.

To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that these areas have high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental

management and that they are places that support people to live healthy lives.”

Councillor Peter Barnes, Portfolio Holder for Environment said: “Over the last 20 months, our parks and open spaces have played a vital part in the health and wellbeing of our residents as, for a long time, they were one of the only places people could go to enjoy exercise and to meet friends and family. We have seen unprecedented demand on our four main parks and we are delighted that Keep Britain Tidy has recognised the value of all four and awarded us with the Green Flag Award.

We work very hard every year to meet the standards and criteria set by the awards so I would like to thank our hard working parks and open spaces staff for their dedication. We know residents of Gedling are very

proud of our parks, and this achievement goes to show what wonderful spaces we have in the borough.”

Councillor John Cottee, Chairman of Communities Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “It is great news that Bestwood Country Park has been recognised by the Green Flag Award scheme. We are committed to ensuring that everyone is able to enjoy our country parks, come rain or shine. I would like to congratulate, and thank, all of our partners, staff and volunteers who put so much time and care in to this fantastic green space.

Throughout all the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, parks like Bestwood have provided Nottinghamshire residents with an opportunity to exercise, socialise and come together as a community safely.”

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Coalition Of Political And Business Leaders Back Nottingham’s Levelling Up Bid A bid for over £40m of Government funding towards further redevelopment of the Broad Marsh and The Island Quarter sites have received backing from a range of politicians and captains of industry. The city has put forward a bid for the Levelling Up Fund set up by the Government to fund major regional infrastructure projects that can make a real difference to local communities by creating jobs and opportunities for people and businesses. Nottingham has submitted a bid for two major projects – asking for £20m towards the next phase of preparing the Broad Marsh shopping centre site for complete redevelopment, along with £20m towards the ongoing development of The Island Quarter. Both are among the largest city centre regeneration sites in the UK, presenting huge opportunities for major investment, new jobs and fresh ways to boost the local economy. The City Council has also submitted a bid for a further £18m from the fund for citywide transport improvements.

The city’s three MPs, along with the Leaders of Nottinghamshire and Broxtowe councils, and senior bosses at Experian, Boots, BioCity, East Midlands Chamber, the Local Enterprise Partnership, both universities and Nottingham College, among others, have joined the City Council’s Leader and Chief Executive, Cllr David Mellen and Mel Barrett, in signing a letter to Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing, Michael Gove, and his ministers, urging them to support the bid. In it, they set out the compelling reasons for both bids to receive Government backing.

On Broad Marsh, they outline how the site presents a oncein-a-generation opportunity to reinvent and reimagine the city post-pandemic and the widespread support for its redevelopment, with expert input from designer Thomas Heatherwick and the Broad Marsh advisory group. They explain how transforming Broad Marsh will unlock jobs and investment and allow the city to flourish while

also contributing towards Nottingham’s goal to become a carbon neutral city by 2028.

Additional public funding such as the Levelling Up money would help to complete the work already underway on site and act as catalyst to secure private investment to help fully realise the huge potential and opportunity of Broad Marsh, the letter says. It points out that The Island Quarter is another major Nottingham development, with over two million square feet of mixed use development planned on the edge of the city centre, set to extend the central business district and create up to 4,000 jobs, which deserves the Government’s financial support. City Council Leader, Cllr David Mellen, said: “The signatories of this letter, and many more people in our city, can clearly see that both Broad Marsh and The Island Quarter represent opportunities to deliver what the Levelling Up Fund sets out to achieve – supporting investment in infrastructure that can make a real difference to local communities. “Our region has seen the lowest level of public investment of any region in the UK and so we hope the Government agrees that our ambitions for Broad Marsh and The Island Quarter embody what Levelling Up is all about.

The scale and significance of the Broad Marsh project alongside the Island Quarter can help to significantly raise the profile of Nottingham as a Core City nationally and internationally and be a catalyst to generate and increase investment and prosperity across the whole city, the county and wider region, spreading the benefits to more of our people.”

Robert Ware, CEO of Conygar Investment Company PLC, which is currently progressing on phase 1A Canal Turn at The Island Quarter, said: “We are not just supporting, but partnering, Nottingham City Council in this bid for the Levelling Up Fund.

The fund will mean a great deal to The Island Quarter, allowing us to accelerate our building programme and will

ensure the city can rise from the pandemic, proud and successful – bringing jobs, homes and opportunities, and boosting the local economy.

“Our 36-acre £1 billion development is vital for Nottingham, and alongside the Broad Marsh development will bring tremendous opportunity to the city. We are urging everyone to back the Nottingham bid and we are, with the City Council, campaigning for support.

“Government should not forget mid-sized cities like Nottingham – they are central to realising the aspirations of the Levelling Up agenda. With the backing of ambitious private sector developers like ourselves, this core city can and will make the most of itself – and won’t be overlooked again.”

Further comments from some of the bid’s backers: Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, Scott Knowles, said: “Nottingham City Council’s Levelling Up Bid seeks support for two vitally important regeneration schemes in the heart of the city that will has a long lasting transformative effect on the city, its residents and the business community.

This investment will act as a beacon for further investment from the private sector and subsequently the creation of thousands of new jobs and ensuring the city centre’s future prosperity.” Director of Nottingham UNESCO City of Literature, Sandeep Mahal, said: “We are proud to back the city’s bid to the Levelling Up Fund and the enormous opportunity if offers to set a vision for the future prosperity of the City. The Levelling Up Fund offers huge potential for attracting investment and growth that will in turn transform the lives of people in Nottingham, create jobs

in the area and showcase the talent and creativity that our UNESCO Creative City has to offer. “Nottingham is an ambitious, young and diverse city with a culture of grassroots collaboration and a rich heritage of rebellious innovation. As a UNESCO Creative City of Literature, Nottingham is important, not just locally and regionally, but also on the global stage; working to harness the power of creativity to build a better, more sustainable, more equitable world.”

Founder & CEO of Switch Up and the Nottingham School of Boxing, Marcellus Baz, said: “The success of both schemes is incredibly important not only to the economic prospects of Nottingham but to the bright future of the disadvantaged young people I support in the city.

“Seeing these significant regeneration projects realised with the support of the Levelling Up Fund will provide them with opportunities for employment as well as giving them a sense of pride in where they live. This feeling of being part of the

community will drive their aspirations to contribute and make Nottingham a fantastic place to learn, work, and live.” Experian’s Global Head of Social Innovation & UK & Head of Corporate Responsibility, Richard Donovan, said: “At Experian we are proud of the deep roots we have here in the East Midlands. As a leading employer in the region, we recognise the importance of transforming the Broad Marsh and Island quarter in supporting the economic development of the city and inspiring the next generation of talent within our local commu-

nities.” Executive Director of BioCity, Toby Reid, said: “Nottingham is an exciting city full of potential but for too long the two sites of Broad Marsh and Island Quarter have blotted the cityscape, masking the ambition and thwarting the city’s ability to fulfil its potential. The private sector can play its part, but nothing catalyses activity and drives confidence in a development like public sector support.”

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Ashfield Celebrates As Six Parks Win Green Flag Awards

Six parks in Ashfield have once again been awarded with the Green Flag Award.

The six parks that have been awarded the Green Flag 2021 are Brierley Forest Park, Kingsway Park, Portland Park, Selston Country Park, Sutton Lawn and Titchfield Park, Hucknall.

The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational

outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Cllr Samantha Deakin, Cabinet Member for Parks, Town Centres and Neighbourhood Services said: “We are so pleased to have received six green flags in our fantastic parks again this year.

We have invested heavily into our parks and green spaces to ensure that they are places that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Our parks are popular with our residents as a place to escape and to enjoy connecting with nature.

“These past two years people have really seen the value of having great quality green spaces on their doorstep.

We are proud of the hard work that our teams have put into maintaining our parks to such a high standard that they are nationally recognized as being some of the best parks in the country!”

Commenting on the news that Ashfield has achieved the Green Flag Award standard at six parks, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making Ashfield worthy of their Green Flag Awards.”

“To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that Ashfield has high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and is a place that supports people to live healthy lives.”

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Anything For Love- The Meat Loaf Story Mansfield Palace Theatre Review and Photography by Luke Seagrave

There is no denying that due to the Covid pandemic a lot of industries were hit hard, and it could be argued that one of the hardest hit was the music industry. One such casualty was Steve Steinman’s stage production ‘Anything for Love- The Meat Loaf Story,’ he had just embarked on the opening dates of their tour when they had to cancel/postpone the entire tour and deal with the knock-on effects that would bring. (e.g.:- band members leaving/no income) For those of you who have

hits) and sure enough Steve Steinman and his incredibly talented band of musicians and dancers had ploughed through the classic hits that made Meat Loaf famous as well as slipping in his own material from ‘Take a Leap of Faith.’

As you would expect the monstrously epic ‘Bat Out of Hell’ is left until the end of the show. By this point the audience were on their feet having a good old-fashioned sing-along.

Like any good show, it requires a whole plethora of talented people to make the show entertaining and this was no exception. Both Rosie Botterill (guitarist) and Story’ called ‘Anything for been living under a rock James Marsh (guitarist) were Love.’ for the last few decades and hitting the notes with laser During the period of not have never heard of Steve precision, and making it look Steinman. He initially starred being able to play live, Steve effortless, whilst James Wise Steinman decided to record on Stars in their Eyes (for (Drums) was the beating an album of his own material heart of the music keeping those of you old enough called ‘Take a Leap of Faith’ the timing more accurate than to remember that show) as and went on to reach number a Rolex watch. Johnny Sax Meat Loaf. From that TV appearance he started to one with it. After dominating provided the beautiful sound the charts. perform as a tribute to Meat of saxophone, whilst John Steve Steinman returned to Loaf. He then progressed Evans supported the band Mansfield Palace Theatre to creating a stage show with his backing vocals. called ‘The Meat Loaf Story’ with his stage show ‘Anything for Love’ is made ‘Anything for Love- The which started to include a more entertaining with the Meat Loaf Story.’ band, backing dancers and backing dancers/vocalists Looking around the crowd, it Emily Clark and Trixabelle impressive stage effects.

From that point on he started was certainly different seeing Bold who enhance the show some people wearing masks, and give it an injection of selling out venues. He then and was a reminder of how produced a different stage youthful energy with their we are living in very strange routines. show called ‘Vampires times currently. But despite Rock’ which has now However, it is been successfully selling this the fans had arrived in Lorraine Crosby’s good spirits and ready to out venues for almost two vocals that steal the enjoy some much needed decades albeit as a different show, you could and long-awaited live music. argue she has an variant: Vampires Rock: The show was dedicated to Ghost Train. More recently unfair advantage Jim Steinman (songwriter for over the other band he developed an updated most of the classic Meat Loaf members being the version of ‘The Meat Loaf

female vocalist that recorded with Meat Loaf on ‘I’d do Anything for Love (But I Won’t do That).’ It goes without saying that this song is included in the setlist.

From my perspective, one of the highlights of the show is when Steve performs ‘For Crying Out Loud’ with such power and emotion behind the vocals. The audience were so absorbed in the song you could hear a pin drop.

Parts of the show like the tongue in cheek dialogue between Steve and Lorraine where they use lyrics and song titles to have a witty conversation with a risqué twist elevates this stage production above being just a ‘tribute’ act.

It is an easy option to categorise ‘Anything for Love’ as a tribute act (and I can understand why people would think that) However

this is so much more than just a tribute act. Great music, great entertainment, and incredibly excellent value for money.

For further information on tour dates:https:// stevesteinmanproductions. com/ https://www. themeatloafstory.com/ The No.1 album ‘Take a Leap of Faith’ is available from Amazon and iTunes.

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Dining Out: Hart’s Style

Many visitors, from all counties of the UK and from abroad, come to Nottingham, constantly, having a fabulous mix of hundreds of shops to explore, including independents, high street stores, plus designer fashions and outlets. World-class artistes can be enjoyed at venues, offering spectacles of music, theatre and the arts, etc. History, culture, tradition and sports are also included in the satisfactions that numerous residents, locals and visitors enjoy.

Restaurants, inns and eateries include several that are located in very interesting historic buildings and settings, as well as in modern ones. Hart’s restaurant was founded during 1997 and quickly gained a reputation for providing excellent cuisine, with service to match. Hart’s hotel, opened 2003, is a luxury, boutique, award-winning 4 star hotel. The restaurant (2 AA rosettes) offers hotel residents and non-residents alike, breakfasts, snacks, drinks, lunches, afternoon teas and evening dinners. A warm, genuine greeting from

Graziano adds to the overall, very pleasant ambience.

Starters, for lunch and/or dinner, can include Tomato Tartar with mozzarella cheese & tomato essences, Redhill Farm Pork Country Pate with chutney and apple puree, plus *Seared Scallops, salt baked celeriac, apples and truffles. Very popular mains have *Derbyshire Sirloin of Beef, Yorkshire pudding, horseradish hollandaise served with traditional accompaniments, Roast Rump of Lamb, braised chicory, fondant potato, sorrel & mint pesto, for example and Poached Monkfish, Thai green curry sauce, pickled shitake mushrooms with miso basmati rice. Desserts, on this occasion, included Warm Chocolate Pudding with raspberry sorbet, Hambleton Bakery Tart served with vanilla ice cream, Cheese & Biscuits with homemade chutney, celery and grapes, also *Vanilla Panna Cotta with strawberries and caramelized white chocolate (*denotes my selections).

Each had perfect presentations and wonderful, outstanding flavours.

Compliments to Chef(s) – absolutely! Thank you to Conor, for exemplary service throughout. Hart’s Hotel & Kitchen is very much recognised and appreciated by a good number of guests, who return regularly – always a good sign.

Hotel bedrooms include classic, superior, garden, plus suites and have interior designs by Mrs Stefa Hart, with selected, desirable artworks and furnishings.

Most definitely a restaurant – and hotel – for returning to.

Highly recommended.

Hart’s Hotel & Kitchen, Standard Hill, Park Row, Nottingham NG1 6GN. Tel: 44 (0)115 988 1900 E-mail: reception@ hartshotel.co.uk www. hartsnottingham.co.uk

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Get Great Discounts And Prizes When You Combat Climate Change With Green Rewards Join Green Rewards today and earn great discounts, vouchers and prizes at local businesses and projects in your community for playing your part to combat climate change and achieve net zero!

That’s the message from all nine local Councils in Nottinghamshire who have joined forces with local universities and creator Jump for a trailblazing partnership!

It provides a new Green Rewards app and web platform which means Notts residents can accumulate points and earn the prizes for many activities they do every day at home or out and about that help lower their carbon footprint.

It is part of the Universities for Nottingham civic collaboration which aims to improve the way the universities work with each other and their local partners to help change the lives of local people for the better.

Sign up for free now or download the Green Rewards app on iOS and Android.

Search for ‘Notts; Green Rewards’ in your device’s app store.

In similar fashion to rewards points at retailers, all residents need to do is log their day to day activities that highlight how they are decreasing the amount of carbon they create, such as: • Walking to work or school instead of taking the car • Cycling or using public transport • Putting your recycling bin out with all the correct recyclables • Switching off a light or switch at home • Taking a shower of four minutes or less and many, many more!

There’s a full list of how you can redeem points or it’s available on the app and when you accumulate sufficient points you can then earn the discounts, vouchers and prizes and in Rushcliffe 10 per cent discounts or other offers at these participating outlets.

There’s also £20 worth of vouchers for the top two residents in each council area who earn the most points each month, to claim at local businesses, donate to worthwhile causes or projects

and in some districts and Boroughs there’s prizes too for the top points earning wards.

All the Councils across Notts including Ashfield District Council, Bassetlaw District Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Gedling Borough Council, Mansfield District Council, Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council have come together to drive forward and fund the platform and app to residents.

They have followed the lead of Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham who use the app to encourage their staff and students to log their every-day activities.

Through the Universities for Nottingham initiative partners have pledged to tackle sustainable travel and transport and develop joint programmes to change behaviour, ensuring the lessons learnt are passed on

to all in the region.

The first collaborative sustainability engagement programme of its kind in the UK, it features the simple carbon-reduction activities that residents can complete.

It means Nottinghamshire is the first County in the country to see all its major local authority and education partners collaborate on a climate change reduction project in this way ahead of next month’s COP 26, providing an easy to use platform and incentives for all.

Speaking on behalf of the council partners, Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change Cllr Abby Brennan said: “We are excited to launch Green Rewards to our residents and provide them with the tools and motivation to join the fight against climate change. Register or download the app today!

“Small actions really can make a difference, and we’re confident of this scheme’s

ability to show how much of an impact our residents can have.

“This scheme has already been a huge hit with University students and staff so we’re delighted many residents can now join them to be rewarded for everything they do to help lower carbon levels.

“Every time you go for a walk, cycle or use green public transport instead of using a car, recycle responsibly or just turn a light switch or plug off at home, you can earn points and enjoy the rewards.

“The environment and climate change are at the forefront of all of our priorities as partners and this project is a unique opportunity for Councils across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to work together and achieve something extraordinary.”

Nottingham Trent University’s Head of Sustainability Charmaine Morrell said: “We launched Green Rewards at

Nottingham Trent University in February 2019, so I’m delighted that the app is being rolled out across the whole of Nottinghamshire.

“This is a huge achievement given that all the local authorities within Nottinghamshire have come together, united in their desire to get everyone involved to combat climate change.

At NTU alone 360,000 kilograms of carbon has already been saved, the same weight as 90 elephants.”

Andy Nolan, Director of Sustainability at the University of Nottingham said: “We’ve been delighted with the way our staff and students have used the Green Rewards App to log the positive actions they are taking to help achieve our sustainability goals and it’s great to see how commitments made through the Universities for Nottingham initiative are expanding across the county.

“We’ve already seen 23,000 positive actions, saving over 25,000kg of CO2.”

The partnership will support each council’s target of reaching net zero carbon emissions before 2040, with some committing to an earlier date of 2030.

Each councils’ residents will see different activities and content when they access the Green Rewards platform, ensuring it is tailored to their council’s goals.

Graham Simmonds, Chief Executive, Jump, says: “We are delighted to be celebrating the launch of Notts Councils’ groundbreaking Green Rewards programme.

“This is a significant step in the race to reach net zero and it’s very exciting to see the eight District and Borough Councils plus the County Council and two universities coming together and collaborating so effectively.

“I’m excited by the range of carbon busting activities for residents to get involved in, and with lots of people taking lots of individual actions this will collectively add up to a big difference.”

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NOTTINGHAM FROM THE AIR

This month’s aerial photo shows the Arboretum which was officially opened in 1852 and is Nottingham’s oldest public park. The photo was taken by Robin Macey who is a member of Nottingham & Derby Hot Air Balloon Club. The club is currently looking to expand.

Members take turns being on the chase crew as well as flying in the basket. For further details about how to get involved phone 0115-8541028 or visit www.facebook.com/ndhabc.

Photo by Robin Macey

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Who Benefits From Pilates?

The short answer is … everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are someone wiser in years (like me at almost 50 years wise), an athlete, or someone recovering from injury. Pilates is suitable for all ages and at Stretch Fit Pilates & Therapy Ltd we

have clients of all ages who benefit from a regular, steady paced, Pilates class. In fact, the majority of our clients are middle-aged wise or more. As our bodies progress in years, it is important to keep the body strong, supple and balanced. Pounding the ground and doing heavy weights with mass repetition builds bulky, short muscle that can put pressure on joints and make you more prone

to injury as you age. Where as Pilates develops long, lean and functionally strong muscles and limbs. Pilates exercises are low-impact and partially weight-bearing, which is good for the prevention of osteoporosis and other joint problems.

The creative routines of our classes build strength and improve posture, flexibility, agility and balance.

Our clients know from experience that our Pilate’s programme is one of the best ways to energise the body, alleviate aches and pains and put that spring back in your step. I am a testament to the

benefits of Pilates as almost 12 years ago I was seriously injured and told I may not be walking unaided ever again. Pilates and a great teacher (my husband) had me walking, running, mountain climbing and tree climbing

pain free again. At almost 50 I’m in the best shape of my life and it just gets better.

This could be you too! We have classes in person and also zoom & pre recorded classes.

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Vandalised Church Sign Replaced By Sign Maker A kind-hearted sign maker, horrified by an act of mindless vandalism, has replaced wooden church signage at no cost, after one of the wooden signs in St Mary’s Church Gardens of Remembrance in Newark was torn off its post.

Newark and Sherwood District Council, which maintains the gardens and provides the signage, originally installed the wooden signs with painted lettering, in keeping with the historic conservation area in the town centre.

The act was described as “appalling” by the District Council, which issued an appeal for information to track down the perpetrators.

Having read about the vandalism on social media, local signmaker Jay Chapman, who produced the original signs, got in touch with the District Council and offered to replace the bespoke wooden signage at no cost.

“I felt gutted when I saw the picture of the vandalism, so I got straight in touch with the Council to say I would

replace it at no cost,” he said.

“The sign is handmade from exterior ply, painted up to a finish in Exterior Farrow and Ball Eggshell Studio Green, then pounced in chalk for the outline of the letters before being traditionally hand painted in the colours specified – all in one shot enamels.”

Based near Retford, Mr Chapman specialises in traditional hand painted signage, from small signs to large wall murals, boats, to vintage vehicles.

The District Council maintains the church gardens and recently partnered with volunteers from the Newark in Bloom group to revamp the flower borders and tidy the grounds ready for the autumn.

New sustainable herbaceous perennials and bulbs were planted ready for the spring and a flower bed was cleared ready for two memorial trees to be planted.

To help combat anti-social behaviour, the District Council also trimmed back a hedge in the gardens to help increase visibility and

removed any litter. New historical interpretation signage is being added and the Victorian style lamp posts surrounding the gardens are going be re-painted.

During the spring, two new bug hotels created by Collingham Men in Sheds were added to help with biodiversity and to encourage wildlife and the Victorian

style lamp posts surrounding the gardens were re-painted.

Newark and Sherwood District Council Leader, Councillor David Lloyd, said: "We were absolutely overwhelmed by Jay’s kind offer to replace the signage at the church gardens.

There really is no excuse for the small minority who indulge themselves causing

such appalling damage and destruction like we saw with the original signs – so in any case, it’s a real shame that they had to be replaced at all.

“However, we are immensely grateful for Jay’s offer and we’re delighted to have the new signage back up in the memorial gardens.

"Our teams work exceptionally hard to keep

our communities and town centres cleaner, safer and greener and mindless antisocial behaviour like this will not be tolerated. In any case of vandalism – we would always appreciate the public’s support in finding those responsible. You can report anti-social behaviour to us via our website, or by calling us.”

Police Make Arrests And Step Up Patrols After Overnight Thefts From Vehicles Police have arrested two men after overnight thefts from vehicles and have stepped up patrols in hot-spot areas in response to reports.

The positive action comes after reports of bank cards and other valuables being taken from vehicles in the Colwick, Netherfield and Mapperley areas this month.

A 24-year-old man has been questioned on suspicion of two counts of theft from a motor vehicle, fraud by false representation and possession of an offensive weapon in connection with reported incidents in Colwick and Netherfield.

A 46-yearold man was arrested on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle and fraud by false representation

over allegations of bank cards being taken from a car in Mapperley which were later used to buy items.

A 39-year-old man has also been voluntarily interviewed by police in connection with this alleged offence.

Neighbourhood Inspector Chris Pearson, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Officers are continuing to work very hard to combat auto crime in hot-spot areas

in Gedling and we are carrying out ongoing patrols in response to reports.

“I would like to reassure people that we will investigate reports, gather evidence and make arrests as part of our robust response to this crime type. I would also urge people to help us reduce offences by making sure they keep their vehicles locked and secure overnight, with any belongings removed.”

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Dining Out: Mount Gurkha Spice

Throughout Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire there are numerous bars, eateries and restaurants, with several being located in areas of great interest. Long Eaton has a most interesting past, with lace-making and manufacturing industries playing a major part for the town’s success. Long Eaton has a train station, with frequent, direct services to Nottingham and Derby, plus London and other

The greeting from Nirmal is welcoming and genuine.

Following the Poppadoms and very good Pickle Tray, I opted for the Mixed Starter (Lamb chop, chicken tikka, tandoori king prawn, salmon tikka). Certainly, most impressive, for presentation and flavours. For main I selected Gurkha King Prawn Masala (Tandoori king prawn cooked in butter, ground almonds, fresh cream and destinations. Bus travel special masala sauce). Again, is well provided for and an excellent presentation and offers services to Ilkeston, with complementing flavours, Derby and Nottingham, for throughout. ‘Compliments example. Very good shopping to Chef’, were duly awarded opportunities are available – without hesitation! in Long Eaton. I located a Mahasharma ensures, with restaurant offering excellent the kitchen personnel, that cuisine and service, to an all dishes are perfect and exceptional standard. remembered for a long time.

Award-winning Mount I chose Peshwari Naan and Gurkha Spice has a very Jeera Rice to accompany. impressive menu and offers Other main course choices authentic Nepalese and included Special Platters, Indian cuisine to a level very Chicken, Lamb, Fish much worthy of seeking out. and Seafood dishes, plus The hand-picked chefs have Vegetarian options. many years of cooking, to the For dessert, I went for finest of Nepalese and Indian Coconut Supreme (Coconut standards, with experiences ice cream, served in a real in India, Dubai and England. coconut shell) – great taste

and flavour. Wines/drinks offer quality productions, from global origins. Thank you to Nirmal and Basu, for exemplary service, from start to finish. Gift vouchers and 15% off collection orders, plus free delivery within 4 mile radius (min order over £15.00), are also available. Parties, receptions and occasions are easily accommodated, too. Very much recommended.

Mount Gurkha Spice, 33 – 35 E-mail: info@ Tamworth Road, Long Eaton, mountgurkhaspice.com Nottingham NG10 1JF. www.mountgurkhaspice.com Tel: 0115 973 1917

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It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

"It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas already in and around Notts this month, but before we fill our diaries with festive fayre, let’s take a look at some of my other picks of what’s on.

First up of course we have the annual Bonfire Night celebrations. Whist the traditional event on the Forest may have been cancelled again this year, there are several other organised events taking place so wrap up against the cold weather and soak up the atmosphere Notts Maze are hosting their first ever fireworks display!

(4 Nov) Cosy up around the bonfire, and enjoy hot/ cold food vendors, ride attractions for children, live music, art, craft and home stalls.

The Cross Keys at Epperstone are also holding their annual firework display with a dose of fun, BBQ and mulled wine (5 Nov) Slightly further afield at Newark Showground, Newark RUFC present its Fireworks Extravaganza 2021, a new take on their annual fireworks display.

Entry is charged per vehicle join in for food, fireworks and fairground fun (6) MLE Pyrotechnics are in charge of Bonfire Night at the Engine Yard, Belvoir Castle.

Grab some of your favourite comfort food provided by The Fuel Tank in the outdoor kitchens. Then simmer down after the display with a drink at The Balloon Bar (6) For a warmer evening’s entertainment, head over to the Theatre Royal this

November where you’ll find a new family in the neighbourhood. Everyone’s favourite kooky family, The Addams Family are now on stage in a spectacular musical comedy (9 -13 Nov) Andrew Lloyd Webber’s West End and Broadway hit musical School of Rock visits the Royal Concert Hall (16 - 20 Nov) and My Best Friend’s Wedding starring Alexandra Burke stops by ( 22 - 27 Nov) featuring some of the most iconic pop anthems ever written by the legendary Burt Bacharach and Hal David, including I’ll Never Fall in Love Again, I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself, Walk on By, I Say A Little Prayer, What’s New Pussycat and many, many more.

There’s something a little different at the Royal Concert Hall (22 Nov) as the climactic sixth episode of the Star Wars saga is presented in concert. The film will be projected onto a huge

ultra-HD screen, whilst the symphony orchestra on stage brings to life the stunning music of Oscar winner, John Williams.

Direct from The West End, the ultimate Whitney Houston tribute show visits (27 Nov) Queen of the Night is a stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time.

Down the road at the Motorpoint Arena, three years after they staged the UK’s most successful comeback of the decade, Steps return once again with their new album, What The Future Holds and the sure-to-be epic, What The Future Holds 2021 Tour (3 Nov) Rick Astley visits (10 Nov) then there's awardwinning comedian, actor and composer, Tim Minchin (20 Nov) Fatboy Slim plays (20 Nov) creating a unique night club experience, and revered DJ, broadcaster and dance pioneer Pete Tong returns to

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present Ibiza Classics 2021 with The Heritage Orchestra and conductor Jules Buckley. promising a party like no other (26 Nov) We end the month with a homecoming for Nottingham lads, Sleaford Mods who are back with new album ‘Spare Ribs’ (27 Nov).

Over at Lakeside Art, Arctic Ice, one of Europe's most accomplished and innovative artists visit. Terje Isungset marks 20 years of ice music with an international project that brings together artists with a long tradition of living in arctic conditions.

Inuit, Sami and Siberian singers, alongside Terje's pioneering ice instruments and Scandinavia's best jazz musicians, celebrate ancient cultures' longstanding respect for nature through traditional and contemporary music.

Prepare to be transported by extraordinary, beautiful and ethereal sounds (17 Nov) If it’s comedy you’re after, following a very difficult 18 months, The Nottingham Comedy Festival is back for its 13th year (12 -21 Nov) Featuring a wide variety of comedy including stand up , improv, sketch and more. Local, national and international artists are appearing at a range of venues across Nottingham.

It’s Nottingham Playhouse who bring us our first taste of the festive season as Mark Gatiss (The Madness of George III, Dracula, The League of Gentlemen,

Doctor Who) stars in his own retelling of Dickens’ classic winter ghost story, A Christmas Carol.

Playing the ghost of Jacob Marley, the multi awardwinning Mark Gatiss reunites with director Adam Penford (An Enemy of the People, The Madness of George III) for this landmark new production. Staying true to the heart and spirit of the original novel, the production is filled with Dickensian, spine-tingling special effects (3-13 Nov) Head to Southwell for some Christmas shopping (6 Nov).

Southwell Minster's popular Winter Craft Fair is back with around 60 stalls selling a wide range of goods, as well as an additional 15 in the stunning State Chamber of The Archbishop’s Palace next door. This is one of the region’s most loved events and is the perfect place to pick up a gift for a loved one whilst helping support independent businesses.

Expect jewellery, ceramics, glassware, textiles, handcrafted cards and much, much more!

After making headlines for all the wrong reasons last year, the Winter Wonderland is back in Nottingham and brings the chance to do some shopping while soaking up the amazing Christmas atmosphere. Sensibly more spaced out and covering a larger area, traditional chalet style market stalls will be offering a chance for some alternative Christmas shopping with a choice of

gifts, crafts, and speciality food (15 Nov - 31 Dec) You can also see the sights from the heights as The Wheel of Nottingham returns. See the city lit up from a whole new perspective.

Over at The Victoria Centre, housed in the old Disney Shop will be a new one of a kind immersive experience. Wonderland.

This new adaptation of Lewis Carrol’s family favourite sees a modern take on classic characters and a new soundtrack. Take an hour-long journey through dance, puppetry, music and comedy. Featuring professional performers, fantastic costumes, beautiful scenery and a brand new set of musical numbers (17 Nov - 30 Dec) Thoresby Park’s Winterfest (27-28 ) offers a celebration of diverse local handmade crafts and foods.

If you prefer to be handson, visit Debbie Bryan (14 Nov) for a new twist to their popular floristry classes!

This year use Debbie Bryan's stunning array of dried and preserved flowers to create an ever-lasting arrangement on a grapevine wreath.

After a sensational debut, Christmas at Wollaton is back (26 Nov - 9 Jan) As twilight descends, Wollaton Hall and Gardens once again promise a visually stunning multisensory experience as they become an enchanting world of light and music.

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New for 2021 is a brand-new trail and a twilight viewing package.

Elsewhere, Thoresby Park has a new ‘North Pole Experience’ With the power of believing and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, help Thoresby's Elf return back home to the North Pole(13 Nov - 23 Dec) Belvoir Castle brings you the magic of a colourful Regency Christmas (15 nov - 2 Jan) Step back in time as you travel through the Castle and witness the wonders of Christmas past. Also brand new for 2021, Enlightened comes to Belvoir as the grounds are transformed into a magical illuminated light trail for visitors to enjoy.

Sundown Adventureland is converted into a Winter Wonderland with the annual opening of the ‘Night before Christmas’ ride. Climb aboard one of Santa’s sleighs and take a magical journey through the enchanted forest where you’ll be greeted by the elves, Mrs. Claus and the big man himself.

(1st - 24th Dec) And finally for a ride of a different kind, it’s not quite the Polar Express, but Great Central Railway are running their Santa Steam Trains.

Ride on board the award winning Santa Specials and meet Father Christmas himself! (1 - 24 Dec) All this, and we’re only just into December! "

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Christmas At Wollaton NEW Trail Unveiled Christmas at Wollaton has revealed the brand-new trail for 2021.

Last year Nottingham’s Wollaton Hall & Deer Park was transformed into Christmas at Wollaton Hall an enchanting and unique, outdoor festive installation, the first ever such event held in the city.

The spectacular event returns to Wollaton Hall & Deer Park on 26th November with a new trail and even more to enjoy.

For Christmas at Wollaton Hall2021 there will be a completely new look trail, so that as twilight descends Wollaton Hall will become an enchanting world of stunning lights with atmospheric sounds and music.

The formal gardens, woodlands and Camilla House at Wollaton Hall will become a magical wonderland to captivate visitors of all ages, with awe inspiring illuminations providing a stunning multisensory experience.

The new trail of spectacular lighting and sounds features both firm favourites as well as stunning new surprises, making it the must-see event of the festive season.

The new trail has been designed to uniquely fit the landscape of the stunning gardens surrounding Wollaton Hall, with the visual displays complimented by brand new music and sounds creating a whole sensory experience.

Christmas at Wollaton opens on Friday 26th November 2021 runs until 9th January 2022.

With rave reviews, the inaugural event was massively successful and due to demand the event will now run for 7 weeks and with extra timeslots (now a total of 440 different bookable slots) to enable more people to enjoy the trail.

Organisers commented “After a sensational debut in 2020 we’re delighted to share the new trail for 2021 which

we believe will be the best yet! The design team has created something that will delight visitors of all ages and offers a fully immersive experience of sight and sound.”

“As well as extra time slots and new packages, this year’s event will be even better than before, and we are really encouraging people to book their slot as soon as possible.

This time around we will also be able to extend our food and drink offer for visitors to enjoy as well as having a wonderful festive Christmas market, so for Christmas 2021 there will be even more to enjoy.”

New additions for this year include a Twilight Viewing Package is an intimate viewing session of Christmas at Wollaton in a limited capacity and timed slot to create that extra special experience, which starts at 4pm and will run every day from Friday 3rd December to Saturday 1st January.

In addition, a VIP Package also includes priority entry to the new trail, with exclusive access to the VIP Terrace Bar and a drinks voucher.

Christmas at Wollaton opens on Friday 26th November 2021 and runs until 9th

January 2022.

Adult off peak tickets start at £19.80 including booking fee, and are available online at www.christmasatwollaton. org Nottingham City Council residents will again enjoy a 10% saving on tickets for Christmas at Wollaton 2021.

For anyone wishing to travel further afield as well, the team behind Christmas at Wollaton has also launched a new Christmas at Trentham at Trentham near Stoke on Trent. The estate includes

the famous Trentham Gardens which will have an illuminated trail is designed to sprinkle a little Christmas magic, accentuate the flora and fauna and see the stunning historic landscape in a new light.

Make Christmas special this year, make Christmas light up at Wollaton Hall.

Twitter and Instagram – @ wollatonlights Facebook @ wollatonhall www.christmasatwollaton.org

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Belvoir Castle Announces Spectacular Christmas Season A Regency Christmas: 15 November 2021 – 2 January 2022

Enlightened Light Trail: 26 November 2021 - 1 January 2022

The biggest and most spectacular festive season ever staged at Belvoir Castle will see the fairy-tale home transformed for A Regency Christmas and its historic gardens illuminated with a magical light trail.

Opening 15 November, the Regency Castle will be transformed into a festive spectacular by leading interior designer Charlotte Lloyd Webber. The hilltop castle is one of the finest surviving examples of Regency architecture and boasts a treasure trove of

is that Christmas was largely invented by the Victorians.

However interior trees were used by the Georgians, following the German tradition particularly in aristocratic houses but would more commonly have been a Yew tree. We will be adding our own interpretative twist and the house will display contemporary decorations that hark back to this beautiful decorative period.”

Archivists at the Castle are poring over the diary entries and other memorabilia to bring out stories of the era as part of the festivities.

Emma, Duchess of Rutland, said: “This Christmas, we invite you to become our guest for the festive season at Belvoir and allow us to transport you back to a world ruled by elegance and etiquette. We are so excited to be presenting A Regency Christmas set in what is surely England’s finest Regency home, the scene of many glamorous balls, elegant parties, intimate suppers along with a good dash of romance and intrigue.”

There’s more to see and do at Belvoir Castle this Christmas than ever before. Brand new for 2021, the Enlightened Light Trail will see the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden and Spiral Walk transformed into a magical trail lit by thousands of twinkling lights. A 3D projection

stunning binge-worthy interiors to thrill the most avid Bridgerton fan.

With the Netflix blockbuster igniting interest in all things Regency in popular culture today, and the eagerly awaited season two in production, the appetite for an authentic Regency experience this Christmas is set to be huge. Taking inspiration the Duke and Duchess of Rutland’s family insignia, the castle will be dressed with Regency inspired décor; trees will be draped in the Belvoir colours

of blue and gold along with a festive palette; opulent rooms set in readiness for a party and other surprises to whisk the visitor into the world of Regency romance.

Rooms will be decorated to highlight the High Regency interiors from the Guard Room, Ballroom, Elizabeth Saloon, State Dining Room and Picture Gallery to the Kings Suite Bedrooms and Regents Gallery. The key decorative notes of individual rooms will inform the designs with an immense Peacock Tree in the Elizabeth Saloon. Inspiration is taken from other stunning Regency interiors such as the Brighton Pavilion built for the Prince Regent who was a frequent visitor to Belvoir along with his brother the Duke of York, reportedly the lover of Elizabeth, 5th Duchess of Rutland. A Regency tree will be decorated in the style of the era while a spectacular Kissing Bough will add to the features typical of the time.

Charlotte Lloyd Webber said: “We are delighted to be working with Belvoir to design its first major Christmas event that will highlight in spectacular festive fashion some of the most famous and gorgeous interiors of this fairytale Regency castle, which happily is currently very in vogue on the back of the Bridgerton Netflix series.

“A common misconception

will be beamed onto the facade of the castle while interactive light up games and a custom soundscape will create a breathtaking experience suitable for all the family to enjoy. The Old Kitchen will be transformed into a Regency Santa’s Grotto for weekend visits while the Engine Yard will have its own Santa’s Grotto open every weekend over Christmas. Tickets available online.

During the run-up to Christmas 2021, there will be late night shopping events at the Engine Yard with quirky, not-on-the-high-street presents and treats as well as plenty of festive food and drink enjoy on site.

Individual Christmas experience tickets for Castle and Garden and Combined tickets are available for the

Regency Christmas and Enlightened Light Trail with pre-booking for the timed slots essential.

Peak and Off Peak Tickets are available for children aged 4-15, adults and families (2 adults, 2 children) starting from £12 child, £ 21 adult and £62 family for A Regency Christmas; £13 child, £17 adult, £56 family for Enlightened and £18 child, £27 adult and £90 family for the Combined offer.

Discount for groups of 15+, coach parking included, free entry and lunch for coach driver/ group tour organiser.

Email groups@belvoircastle. com To explore Belvoir at Christmas and prebook visits, go to www. belvoirchristmas.com/eventcategory/christmas-2021/

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Butlin's Announces Stephen Mulhern Will Be Headline Act For Shows In 2022 Holidays Butlin's has announced Stephen Mulhern will headline shows for family holidays in 2022 - and the best part is there are cheap holiday deals from £98 including school holiday dates

Butlin's has revealed that Stephen Mulhern will be their headline act for a brand new family show in 2022, the resort giant has announced.

The Britain's Got Talent and Animals Do The Funniest Things star will be one of

the brilliant acts on offer and the best part is that you can already book holidays in 2022 from just £98 per family. (For a family of four, that works out at just £24.50pp!).

Guests at all three of Butlin's

Fantasy Island Your Perfect Holiday Adventure With so much adventure available at Fantasy Island, where else would you want to go with the family for the ultimate staycation? We’re easy to find, located in Ingoldmells on the sunny east coast of Lincolnshire. There’s easy access to the beach and Skegness is just minutes away by car or bus.

If you prefer to spend your time shopping, then we have you covered. Fantasy Island boasts Europe’s largest seven-day market where there is literally, something for everyone. From electricals to the garden, from beauty to fashion we have it

all and as you would expect, we have many restaurants, bars and cafes throughout the park for when you need a break from all that shopping and adventure.

We also now have a range of accommodation for our visitors so that you don’t have to cram all the fun and thrills into one day.

Fantasy Island is the premier destination on the East Coast for everyone who is searching for adventure, attractions and rides. You’ll start every day with a new adventure, kids and adults alike will have the time of

their lives.

There is something for everyone including the famous seven day market, the largest in Europe; if you’re searching for fashion or electrical goods, you’ll find them here. Alternatively, relax with a coffee at one of the many cafes whilst the kids recharge for their next adventure. If you prefer the tranquillity of the beach then it’s just a short walk away.

Fantasy Island Holidays are located right in the heart of Ingoldmells and close to Skegness, the perfect location for your getaway staycation.

With entertainment for the whole family, there’s no doubt that you’ll want to come back again and again.

Don’t forget that if you are interested in spending more time with us we have a large range of caravans you can purchase for yourself! Your very own holiday home with special Fantasy Island perks, what more could you want!

resorts (Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness) will be able to see him take the stage throughout select school holiday dates including May half term, the summer holidays and October half term, making it an ideal getaway with the kids. As well as appearances from Stephen, Butlin's will be offering a whole host of shows for 2022 including family favourites Musicals Rock and Strictly Latino, and even a Goldilocks and The Three Bears as the panto.

Other popular acts such as Peppa Pig, PJ Masks, Sam and Mark, Dick & Dom DJ battle, and Thomas & Friends are also due to return for midweek and weekend shows. For those withs underfives, the resorts' popular Just for Tots breaks will be back including appearances

from Milkshake! Live, Mister a waterslide at 30 mph with your hands in the air.

Maker and Justin Fletcher.

As always, it's not only about the shows.

Families can experience a range of exciting activities whether that's having fun at the funfair, kids trying their luck at the arcade, or even hitting the waterpark (British weather permitting).

After all, no Butlin's trip is complete without hurling down

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Ashfield Food And Drink Festival Is Back!

Following the huge success of the first ever Food and Drink Festival, Ashfield District Council are bringing a second festival to Hucknall on Sunday 21st November.

Ashfield District Council, with partners Discover Ashfield and Lincoln Green Brewery, are hosting the festival on Sunday 21st November from 10am – 4pm.

So far there are over 20 stalls lined up, selling a variety of

artisan food, drinks, produce and gifts, with many of the popular traders from the first festival returning.

Returning caterers for the Hucknall Food and Drink Festival in November are: • B’Reyt Dough • Istanbull Grill • Cossack Cuisine • Back-A-Yard Cuisine • Samuels Catering • DC Outside Events • Sona Foods

Returning producers are: • Taartie • Outlaw Cookie Club • Cook it up • Munchies and More • British Food Box • Fig Tree • Kats Sweet Treats • Lincoln Green Brewing Company • Brockleby’s Pies • Mr Olive UK • Tan Rosie Foods There will be food gifts

Drinks: Make Mine A Crabbie Alcoholic beverages, from beers, lagers, ciders, through wines and liqueurs, to spirits and more, have been consumed and enjoyed for many, many centuries. The whisky industry is doing very well, indeed. With the UK and export markets increasing, whisky, most definitely, can be said to have ‘stood the test of time’.

As societies become more affluent, then the requirement for whisky grows, being something of a status symbol, clearly giving signs of a higher lifestyle. For example, it is reported that in China, people are enjoying Scotch whisky in western-style bars and it has become a growing trend. My quest, on this occasion, was to locate whiskies which I find interesting and satisfying.

John Crabbie & Co have been purveyors of wine and spirits since 1801. John Crabbie and his family owned a lot of property in Leith, north of Edinburgh and exported around the globe.

Providing fine, single malt

Scotch whiskies was John Crabbie’s objective in life.

Several whiskies are within the Crabbie range. Yardhead Single Malt is so named because of the original site in Leith. The Crabbie 12 year old Speyside Single Malt whisky is hugely popular and produced utilising bourbon casks, to great advantage.

The bouquet is most enticing and the smooth, wellbalanced mouthfeel continues the delight, with an excellent body that has superb depth and a richness that follows for the palate’s pleasure, having fruity and vanilla overtones.

Other Crabbie whiskies include 8 year old and 12 year old productions, plus 15 year old Highland Single Malt.

40 year old Speyside Single Malt (44.5% vol) and 50

year old Islay Single Malt (46.5% vol) are destined for the ‘top table’, most certainly, I suspect. Stockists of Crabbie whiskies include supermarkets, independent wines/drinks retailers, bars, restaurants and they can be purchased online, too.

It is always exciting and very satisfying to find whiskies that are fresh and have interest, with a good nose and flavour. The flavour and finish, on the palate, having great importance – then duly noted and remembered!

John Crabbie & Co, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 5QN. Tel: 44 (0) 151 480 8800 www.crabbiewhisky.com

available from Personalise-it4-me who offer personalised laser engraved gifts and gift wrapped wines from Pretty Screwed.

Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said “We were overwhelmed with the support that Hucknall showed for the first Food and Drink Festival.

Over 4000 people attended

the event and almost all traders sold out within a few hours which demonstrates the quality of the goods on offer.

“The upcoming Food and Drink Festival will be following a summer of fantastic free events that the Council organised this year.

We take pride in hosting free community events that the whole family can enjoy, and

the Welcome Back Fund has allowed us to do this again. It was incredible to see so many people supporting the high street and local businesses and I look forward to seeing you all at this next one!”

Applications for stall holders and caterers are still open, please contact markets@ ashfield.gov.uk for an application form.

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Nottingham Christmas Events And Attractions Will Go Ahead

Big Wheel (Image from 2019) Nottingham City Council has given the go-ahead for a Christmas Market and festive attractions in the city centre this year.

Organisers have revised the usual arrangements to ensure people can come to the city centre and choose from a

wide range of festive treats and experiences, and above all, enjoy themselves safely.

The new-look event follows advice from the Safety Advisory Group for Events (SAGe) which preferred a dispersed offer using spaces across the city centre rather

than all attractions being sited in Old Market Square as usual. A range of seasonal activities will therefore be spread across the Old Market Square, Smithy Row, Long Row, and Trinity Square.

The number of market stalls has been scaled back, and spaces around them increased to improve circulation.

Old Market Square

will remain the focal point for the city’s Christmas events. The city’s traditional 60ft high Norway Spruce Christmas tree, lit with 4,000 twinkling bulbs, will take centre stage in front of the Council House, which will be adorned by a snowflakeinspired lighting display. A giant observation wheel will whisk visitors 33m up into the air, with stunning views

over the city’s rooftops. For those who prefer to stay closer to ground level, a traditional carousel will also light up the square.

A new Après Ski themed pop-up bar will also be located on Old Market Square, while the traditional Helter Skelter bar will return to Smithy Row offering visitors a steaming mug of Glühwein as riders slide down the traditional fairground favourite from above.

Traditional chalet-style market stalls will be trading along Long Row and Smithy Row offering a chance for some alternative Christmas shopping with a choice of gifts, crafts, and speciality food.

The festive events will also spread this year to Trinity Square, where a speciallyconstructed Christmas Village with a number of food and drink options will see visitors entering via a Christmas Tree-lined entrance leading to a winterthemed setting that features a number of igloo-style glass domes.

Plans for a further dispersed Winter Wonderland offer that would have seen popular elements of the event such as ice skating, the Ice Bar and

Sur la Piste bars re-located to other areas of the city centre, were considered by the event organisers Mellors Group but unfortunately, this has not proved possible.

The reduced-scale alternative offer for 2021 is designed to complement the vibrant city centre offer of retail, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Other Christmas events are expected to be announced in due course.

Nottingham’s Christmas celebrations will begin as the lights across the city are switched on and attractions open on Monday 15 November and will run until Friday 31 December.

Some of the city’s larger events; such as Goose Fair attract some 450,000 people over five days and Riverside Festival, 220,000 people, over three days. These have not taken place in 2021 because of their scale, individual characteristics, and nature of each event.

However, a range of smaller events with capacities of up to 15,000 have been successfully and safely staged since May in the city.

It is estimated the average number of daily visitors to the Christmas event will be close to this 15,000 level

Igloo domes like these will be sited in Trinity Square

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Christmas tree and lights on Council House from 2020 rather than the much larger numbers associated with Goose Fair and the Riverside Festival.

Each event is assessed on its own merits and some of the key considerations for the Christmas event going ahead included: • Fewer attractions dispersed over wider parts of the city centre allowing easier circulation • Relatively low expected daily visitor numbers across a longer time-frame • Multiple travel options and ways to enter and leave the

main sites • Prevailing conditions meaning other businesses and hospitality venues will also be open in the City Centre Cllr Eunice Campbell Clark, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture, and Schools said: “We are really pleased that we have been able to come up with a high-quality programme of Christmas events and attractions dispersed around the city centre. In planning for this event, we have been mindful of the issues at last year’s event and we acknowledge

Helter Skelter Bar (Image from 2019)

it’s important to maintain a balance of keeping people safe and urging caution but also allowing people to enjoy the seasonal festivities. Our event plans for Christmas 2021 allow for any amendments or adjustments that may be needed due to any future changes in Government advice or legislation.”

A spokesperson from Mellors Group said: “We’re pleased to be bringing a Christmas experience to the heart of Nottingham once again.

While we are of course

disappointed not to be able to bring the entire Winter Wonderland experience to Nottingham this year, the reduced-scale and dispersed

offer of events and attractions across the city centre will still ensure that Nottingham remains one of the best seasonal destinations for

visitors this Christmas.”

Keep up to date with the latest Christmas event news at : www.whatsonnottingham. com

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10 Ways To Have A Healthier Christmas Christmas is notoriously a time to indulge, but don’t let this be the green light to overindulge! You can still enjoy all the festivities of the season and get through the Christmas period without too much impact on your health and waistline. Try our top 10 tips for a healthier Christmas.

Don’t sit down all day We know every Christmas special under the sun will be showing on the TV, but you don’t need to plonk yourself on the sofa all day!

Encourage the whole family to get out for a walk at some point – ideally, after dinner to aid digestion.

The more activity, the better, so take along any new outdoor gifts, like bikes, scooters, footballs or Frisbees, or play oldfashioned games.

Go easy on the booze If you are firmly ensconced at home over the festive period, those alcohol units can really mount up. Mulled wine on Christmas eve, Bucks Fizz with breakfast, wine with dinner, Baileys, brandy… the list goes on! So, do try to keep tabs on how much you are drinking, and intersperse alcoholic drinks with soft ones.

Don’t give yourself a Christmas stuffing!

Recent research suggests that we consume around 3,000 calories in our Christmas dinner – more than the entire recommended daily intake

for a grown man!

This huge feast not only contributes to weight gain but also to indigestion and heartburn – not to mention lethargy for the rest of the day, reducing the chances of you burning much of it off.

Instead of gorging yourself on Christmas dinner, eat a normal-sized meal and then take a 20-minute break to see if you are still hungry (it takes this long for the brain to register that the stomach is full). The chances are, you’ll realise you’ve had enough.

Keep colds at bay Colds are rife at Christmas, partly because many of us travel around the country, exposing ourselves – and others – to different cold viruses.

Minimise your risks by maintaining a healthy immune system (eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and

not smoking will help), so you are more able to fight off any viruses.

Don’t stress ‘Tis the season to be jolly’ but jolly is the last thing many of us feel with overspending, cooking, cleaning, endless ‘to do’ lists and visitors we could do without.

Try to keep a sense of humor and proportion. Is it really the end of the world if the carrots are overcooked or if the mantelpiece is a bit dusty?

Do you really care about Auntie Mary’s disapproval of the fact that you and your partner are living together and aren’t married?

Remember, Christmas is just one day out of 365 and it isn’t worth stressing over.

Eat fruit Let’s be honest, most of us get through the entire Christmas period eating no more fruit than the satsuma in the Christmas stocking. It just doesn’t really feature on the Christmas menu.

But at this time of late nights, overindulging and partying, it’s more important than ever to get your vitamins and minerals, to help you stay in good health. Ensure that

your Christmas shopping list enables you to fill up the fruit bowl and get your recommended daily portions of fruit and veg. (And no, mulled wine doesn’t count as one portion!)

Do something for others It’s hard to avoid the consumerism that has overtaken Christmas in the western world, but it doesn’t all have to be about giving or receiving gifts.

Try to do something for others this festive season, whether it’s baking some extra mince pies for an elderly neighbor, or donating gifts to a local charity.

Think before you eat Christmas is a time of plenty, and with nuts, chocolates, mince pies and cheese straws wherever you look, it would be rather Scrooge-like to suggest that you don’t eat any treats over the festive period!

But rather than mindlessly popping whatever is in front of you in your mouth, spend a moment thinking about whether you really want it, or are just eating it because it’s there.

Engage your brain Instead of switching off in front of the TV, keep your

mind active by playing games like Trivial Pursuit or Charades. This is also a great way of getting everyone together. If you aren’t a ‘game’ person, engage your mind by setting up any new gadgets, such as Playstations, iPads, mobile phones or laptops.

Be a careful cook If your Christmas duties include cooking the dinner, you won’t be delighted to hear that according to the Food Standards Agency, December is one of the most common months for people to get food poisoning.

To minimise the risks, don’t leave food out all day. Put out small amounts at a time, so that what is on the table has just been cooked or just come out of the fridge. Ideally, try to use any leftovers within 48 hours or freeze them.

As for the turkey, always defrost it in the fridge, allowing 10 to 12 hours per kilo and do not wash the bird, as this can spread bacteria around, which will be destroyed by cooking anyway.

And most importantly, have a happy, healthy festive season!

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How To Dress To Impress This Christmas

Christmas is a season for love, joy, and peace, and the season to let your hair down, get glam, and dress to impress.

It is party season, a time when you have every excuse to get your glam on. Most work environments have an office Christmas party where the food and drink is generous,and then there are family occasions, nights out with friends, and a movie date night with your partner. The time is right for getting out and about, even if you live in pyjamas for the majority of the year.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you may need to invest in your wardrobe.

Relying on a dress that has been in your closet for five years might not be the fit of current fashion today, so a fashion investment for your Christmas party may be necessary.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune

to look good, you can find perfect vintage styles and preloved clothing that you can customise, or just wear as it is in a retro look.

If you are buying clothes online, you certainly shouldn’t just but the first thing you see without checking you can get it cheaper, you need to look for voucher codes, special offers, free delivery offers, literally everything you can that will save you money.

Feel Good Look Good What you choose to wear to a Christmas party can say a lot about your personality and how you feel about yourself. Dress for yourself and your outfit will display your confidence, but try to impress wearing something that you feel uncomfortable in and this can be counterproductive. You don’t have to opt for something revealing or too clingy, you will feel more confident if you are comfortable and love

your look. Try a midi dress if you have a curvaceous body, or a crop top with high waisted trousers if you are naturally slim with a boyish figure.

Long sleeves are also fine, it is Winter after all.

Try Quirky and Different If fast fashion is not on your radar, you might be interested in quirky or vintage fashion.

Vintage fashion is not for everyone, but if you can carry off this look wear it with pride.

Vintage items are about finding your own fashion style and era. Think polka dots, sixties style dresses, mini or maxi skirts, and colourful short fitted jackets.

This look relies on a confident individual who will be complimented numerous times on the outfit. Difference is good with fashion.

You might not always be the latest trendsetter, but a colourful outfit quirky or vintage outfit makes a

statement about who you are and your signature style.

Ditch the Black Black is the classic colour when it comes to style, Coco Chanel and many others that have followed know the allure of the Little Black Dress.

Nothing beats the little black dress when it comes to elegance, and it can also be slimming’ which can add to your confidence, particularly if you don’t usually wear dresses. But whilst black can be slimming and elegant, it can also boring, especially at Christmas time. If you choose to wear black, you could opt for a sequined effort, or glamorous lace, or you could choose to add an item of clothing in a bright shade to wear with your black jacket or trousers/skirt.

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Christmas 2021: Experts Predict The Bestselling Toys For This Festive Season From the toys that every child will want to the best time to start shopping, here's what you need to know.

Christmas is a magical time for all the family. Whatever your age, it's a time to catch up with loved ones, reflect on the year and - of course - give presents! If you have a little one in your life and aren't too sure what to get them this year, we've spoken to top industry experts to find the toys every child will want.

We've also gathered advice on the best time to buy to

avoid disappoint-ment.

Here's everything you need to know... Christmas 2021 trends to expect What toys will be popular for Christmas 2021?

"Some of the top toy trends we’re seeing for 2021 are those tied into films, with the lack of new releases last year meaning we saw very little along these lines in 2020," says Peter Jenkinson, AKA "The 'Toyologist," a UK-leading toy expert who regularly features on popular television programmes.

"This year, we’ll have a new Ghostbuster film, Paw Patrol hitting the big screen and a Top Gun movie, too."

The consensus is also that big-brand toys will remain popular. "There are lots of brands we’re excited about for Christmas 2021," says Gary Grant, Founder and Executive Chairman of toy shop The Entertainer. "This includes Paw Patrol, following the movie this summer. Other popular brands will include CoComelon (based on the popular children's TV

show), Super Mario, L.O.L. Surprise! (mini baby dolls), Barbie and Bluey (another popular kids TV series)."

We can also expect people of all ages to fall in love with toys and games for Christmas 2021. "This year we’ve seen a huge surge in the popularity of traditional toys and games that can be enjoyed by the whole family," says Rachael Larkman, Toy Buyer at John Lewis. "For example, sales of construction toys and puzzles such as Lego have risen 50% in the last 12 months, and we predict this trend will continue for Christmas 2021."

What toys will children ask Santa for this Christmas

2021?

Having insight into what your kids might want is great for surprise gifting, but what can we expect them to ask Santa for?

John Lewis may well have the best predictions for this.

The retailer enlisted a panel of five under 12's to help select and approve the top 10 toys for Christmas. The Toy Testers spent hours playing, testing and competing in

the John Lewis Toy Testing Lab and then selected their favourites.

To give you some insight into a little one's Christmas wish-list or letter to Lapland, John Lewis' tiny toy testers revealed the top 10 toys will be: • Scalextric Batman vs Superman • Lego Elf Clubhouse • John Lewis FSC Wooden My 1st Train Set • Space Puzzle Ravensburger • John Lewis FSC Wooden Waitrose Supermarket • Gravi Pro Starter Extreme • Kaloo My first Doll • Harry Potter Games Compendium • Tonies Soft Cuddly Friends - Hoppie Rabbit Audio Play • Secret Garden book Should I order toys online for Christmas 2021?

With some people still feeling uncertain about shopping on the high street at busy times, it’s totally understandable that you may be looking to buy toys online for Christmas 2021.

Not sure what to order? Amazon has released its Toys We Love list, which is curated by experts to give insight into the most popular toys for Christmas 2021. “We’re so excited to unveil this year’s Toys We Love list, which features more new products and Amazon exclusives than ever before,” says Anne Carrihill, Director for Toys and Games at Amazon. “Customers will discover family-friendly gift ideas that spark imagination, promote inclusion, and help kids learn in fun and engaging ways.”

Many toys made the list, but here are 10 recommended

by Amazon that we think will be perfect for kids of all ages:

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Best Unusual Christmas Gifts: Quirky And Unique Present Ideas To Stand Out From The Crowd In 2021

Show how much you care this Christmas with an offbeat gift that shows you know them better than anyone else Stuck for ideas when it comes to Christmas gifts this year?

After all, you can only buy socks, chocolate or aftershave so many times before they become a bit samey. Even a small twist on a generic gift can show a loved one you care, and that you’ve put thought into choosing something that screams unique.

However, there are so many present options out there it can be difficult to know where to begin – from wacky food and drink gifts to novelty clothing (that you know they'll never wear). But do not fear – we have written this guide to cut through the noise.

Whether you're looking for a present for a partner, friend or family member, our philosophy is the quirkier the better. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best unique gifts to buy your loved ones for Christmas 2021.

Best unusual Christmas gifts Polaroid Originals OneStep+ Camera

A 70s-style instant camera with modern Bluetooth connectivity is the best of both worlds.

The OneStep+ allows you to connect to the Polaroid app and access extra effects and features so, no, it’s not quite as analogue as the original – but it looks just as cool.

Throw Throw Burrito Card Game This game isn’t for the faint of heart. Though it’s described as a ‘card game’, that’s under-selling it. It’s a

bonkers card game crossed with dodgeball in the form of squishy toy burritos. It’s stacks of fun, but beware: it could get messy.

Sculpd Pottery Kit For a gift that will outlast Christmas, consider buying a friend or family member a new hobby.

For the creative minds in your life, this kit includes everything they need to get started with pottery – they'll be making plant pots, candle holders, coasters or minisculptures before you know it.

LuckyVoice Karaoke Set

This stylish at-home set from London and Brighton’s leading karaoke bar would make the perfect gift for someone who likes to belt ballads like Beyoncé.

That’s the Boxing Day entertainment sorted.

Oxfam Poverty Busting Pig Part of a series of charity gift cards, this poverty-busting pig makes a donation to Oxfam in your loved one’s name, which enables the charity to set up farming co-operatives and provide training for farmers living in

poverty. A thoughtful gift that gift worth knowing gives back. about.

The Big Cheese kit contains everything you need to create 10 different cheeses across 40 batches, including mozzarella, ricotta, mascarpone, halloumi, feta and paneer.

Personalised Marmite Personalised gifts always go down a treat with tricky-tobuy-for friends and family.

You really can find something for everyone, whether it’s personalised PG Tips tea or a monogrammed whiskey glass, but what’s not to love (or loathe, depending on which camp you’re in) about personalised marmite?

The School of Life Conversation Menus The School of Life (cofounded by philosopher Alain de Botton) creates a range of thoughtful gifts, from charming children’s books to an ‘emotional first aid kit’.

We love this pack of Conversation Menus, which consists of curious, thoughtprovoking questions that promise to connect you to others and make every dinner party a delight.

The Big Cheese Making Kit If you count a ‘turophile’ (that’s a cheese enthusiast to you and I) among your nearest and dearest, this is a

Chefly Pasta Maker This pasta maker will allow you to take your tagliatelle to new heights.

It won’t break the bank, either, so it’s a great choice for budding chefs who are dipping their toe into pasta making for the first time.

Personalised Floral Liberty Framed Picture Another personalised gift that will go down a treat, especially among loved ones who are into interior design.

The print is backed with gorgeous Liberty floral fabric and finished with bespoke lettering.

It’s completely personalisa-ble, comes framed and is made in England.

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Christmas 2021 At Calke Abbey Make magical memories this Christmas at Calke Abbey, where you’ll find festive lights and illuminations, a treasure trail for families, Christmas fairs and lots of opportunities to meet Father Christmas himself. Booking for Father Christmas events is now live; visit the What’s On page for full details.

Christmas lights and illuminations at Calke As darkness settles this Christmas, see Calke all lit up in festive lights on an

illuminated trail through the Pleasure Grounds and up to the church. As part of the trail, you’ll see glimpses of the house dressed up for Christmas and follow the twinkling tunnels to the Stableyards. Families can also take part in the Christmas Treasure Trail, which you’ll be able to download from this page closer to Christmas.

The small print: the illuminated trail will be open every weekend in December and the week before Christmas (Mon 20–Thurs 23 Dec), from 4pm. Visit the What’s On page for full details, including last entry times. Booking not needed.

Meet and greet with Father Christmas.

Unfortunately, Father Christmas won’t be in his Stableyard Grotto this year, but there are plenty of opportunities to meet him at Calke this Christmas.

Look out for Breakfast with Father

Christmas and Afternoon Tea with Father Christmas in the café for a chance to enjoy some delicious food as a family, then meet Father Christmas himself – he’ll come prepared with presents for all good girls and boys.

Pre-booking is essential for Father Christmas events; visit the What's On page for full details and to book online.

You can also meet the Christmas Elves at a storytime session, where you’ll hear magical tales and get in the festive spirit.

There's no need to book for this event, but spaces will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Christmas fairs in the Riding School Christmas fairs are returning to Calke Abbey for 2021!

Every weekend in December, you’ll find festive food, drink and gifts in the Riding School from 10am to 6pm.

Looking for last-minute gifts? Look no further.

The Christmas fairs will be open on Mon 20–Weds 22 December so you can find last-minute inspiration (or simply treat yourself to another mince pie).

Matlock Hosts A Christmas Weekend

On the first Weekend in December each year, Matlock hosts a Christmas Weekend

in Hall Leys Park in the centre of Town. You can expect to find over 170 stalls (local / European produce and craft), live entertainment and fun for all the family throughout the weekend.

This is combined with the “switch-on” of the Town’s Christmas lights (Saturday) and Fireworks (Sunday) that light up the skies of Matlock, Proctors Fun Fair, Live Music, Santa’s grotto and much more.

The Town’s illuminations have become a major attraction in recent years with visitors travelling from far and wide to enjoy the spectacle. The event welcomes an estimated 20,000 visitors over the weekend. People come from Matlock and surrounding villages and new visitors from far & wide as well

as grandparents with fond memories of holidays in Matlock bringing their grandchildren.

This years event will take

place on Friday December 3rd, Saturday December 4th and Sunday December 5th from 9am each day and entry is FREE to everyone!

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Festive Fun In Boston Christmas is fast approaching and Boston residents, businesses, and visitors can really start to get in the festive spirit from next month with the town’s Christmas Market and light switch on.

Thursday 25th November will see the return of the ever-popular event and, whilst Covid-19 safety measures mean that some elements have been reimagined this year, it promises to be as wonderful as ever for everyone in attendance.

Running from 12pm – 8pm, the market will see Boston’s local retail and hospitality offer complemented by a number of Christmas themed stalls in the Market Place and on Wide Bargate, along with a selection of food and drink stands.

There’ll be plenty of entertainment on offer too, including small children’s rides and fun stalls, whilst Christmas music brings

Lincoln Castle's Illuminated Wall Walk Is Back!

From Thursday 2 – Sunday 5 December, enjoy spectacular views of the Lincoln Christmas Market from Lincoln Castle's Illuminated wall walk.

Stephanie Beecher from Lincoln Castle, explains: "We're so excited to be lighting up the walls especially for the Christmas Market.

"The medieval wall walk offers amazing views of the market and the city, adds to the festive atmosphere and provides some after dark festive sparkle.

"It is a stunning spectacle not to be missed. Tickets are limited, so make sure you book early to secure your space."

Castle Illuminated Wall Walk From Thursday 2 – Sunday 5 December, enjoy spectacular views of the Lincoln Christmas Market from Lincoln Castle’s Illuminated wall walk. Stephanie

Beecher from Lincoln Castle, explains: “We’re so excited to be lighting up the walls especially for the Christmas Market.

“The medieval wall walk offers amazing views of the market and the city, adds to the festive atmosphere and provides some after dark festive sparkle.

“It is a stunning spectacle not to be missed. Tickets are limited, so make sure you book early to secure your space.”

Visitors can access the

illuminated walls on Thursday – Saturday from 5pm – 9pm, and on Sunday from 5pm – 6.30pm.

Tickets for the Illuminated wall walk are adults £10; concessions £9; child (5-16) £5.50; under 5s free; family (up to two adults and three children) £25.50 Illuminated Wall Walk tickets must be purchased separately to any other admission tickets for Lincoln Castle.

For more information or to book, visit www. lincolncastle.com.

the sights and sounds of the festive season to life.

Transported will also be delivering ‘Light and Hope’ themed trails throughout the day, in place of the traditional Illuminate Parade, which will be accompanied by brilliant street performers, the popular Fire Garden with its stunning sculptures, and of course the light switch on with a countdown throughout the town.

Pescod Square will have their own surprise this year for shoppers with Father Christmas’s Grotto joining their selection of high street shops and cafés. Santa will be making his early stop in the town from 4pm - 8pm, with all money raised supporting the Blackfriars Theatre and Art Centre. Blackfriars are also hosting their yearly Pantomime, a production of Dick Whittington and his Wonderful Cat, from December 11. Pantomime

characters from the show will be in Boston during the market – you never know who you might pass as you explore the town!

With all that in store it promises to be a fantastic day for all involved, and it wouldn’t be possible without the ‘Christmas in Boston’ group who will be busy dressing the town in the run up to the event, thanks also go to those local businesses who have provided sponsorship and Boston Town Area Committee for their support.

Councillor Tracey Abbott, Portfolio Holder for Town Centre, said: “I’m delighted to see the Christmas Market return this year, it’s such an important event for the town and whilst there are some inevitable changes, I know it’ll be a huge success.

I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us so far and all those who

will be supporting the event on the big day, it wouldn’t be possible to deliver this beloved event without them.”

Councillor Paul Goodale, Chairman of the Boston Town Area Committee, added: “We’re very pleased to be supporting the Christmas Market and light switch on once again. It’s one of, if not, the biggest events in Boston’s calendar and I look forward to what I’m sure will be a wonderful day.”

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Leicester Gets Ready To Light Up For Christmas THE MAMMOTH task of installing the twinkling lights and the colourful garlands that will decorate Leicester city centre this Christmas gets under way this week.

From today (Tuesday 19 October), the city council will start putting up the decorations that cross the city’s main shopping streets and installing the first of the 16,000 lamps that will light up Leicester in the run-up to Christmas. This year, the council has spent £50,000 updating the city’s stock of decorations and replacing worn-out fixtures and fittings.

The extra funding means there will be a brand new look for Gallowtree Gate – where elegant red and white decorations will span the street – and a fresh look for the Town Hall, where the traditional ‘Christmas Greetings’ motif will be joined by some colourful new LED Christmas trees.

In Green Dragon Square at Leicester Market, illuminated

garlands will be strung between the square’s lampcolumns, while the trees in the square will be lit up with pea-lights. Next month, at the Clock Tower, a 50ft Christmas tree will be carefully lowered into place and decorated with blue, gold and white baubles, while the city’s traditional nativity scene and a festive tableau scene – featuring a new augmented reality experience for youngsters – will be installed in Town Hall Square. To ensure crowds are spread out around the city centre, there will be no stage programme on Humberstone Gate when the lights are switched on this year. Instead, a countdown – played out on speakers at 6.30pm on Thursday 18 November – will herald the switch-on of Leicester’s Christmas lights. Deputy city mayor Cllr Piara Singh Clair said: “The city council has updated its stock of festive decorations again this year

and our lighting team will be working hard to make sure that Leicester, once again, looks magical throughout the festive season. “I’m delighted that our celebrations will return to Leicester’s streets this Christmas, with just a few changes to make sure that people can join in safely.

“I hope that our festive lights will help put everyone in the mood for a very happy Christmas.” The council’s lighting team will be installing the decorations early in the morning and at weekends to minimise inconvenience to road users. Decorating the city – including Town Hall Square and around 20 city centre streets – will take four weeks to complete. Low energy LED bulbs are used in all of Leicester’s decorations.

A full programme of events taking place in Leicester this Christmas, including the return of the Jubilee Square ice rink, will be published soon.

This Christmas, Melton Mowbray town centre goes

back in time to offer a traditional experience at the Christmas Market.

Melton Mowbray Christmas Market There will be singing and dancing throughout the day with local children putting on a performance

for visitors; why not have a dance or two to get into the Christmas spirit? Do not miss the Christmas Tree Festival held in St Mary’s Church to get some ideas on

how to decorate your tree at home. Do not forget to take home with you the allimportant Melton Mowbray Pork Pies from Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe and some

Melton stilton cheese from the Melton Cheeseboard.

This years Victorian Christmas Fayre is on Friday 3rd December though to December 5th.

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Planning For Your Wedding Day 2022 As couples plan for their big day for 2022 now is the time to get into shape. and start organizing for what will be the best day of their lives.

For the bride, you can’t start earlier enough.

You want to arrive at the alter looking vibrant with health and beauty, so what better excuse do you need to invest a little bit of time, money and energy in getting you there?

Whether it is planning a few pampering trips to some spas or joining a gym, not only can you trim your figure, you’ll do wonders for your complexion and overall energy levels.

Shopping for the wedding dress is probably the part of the wedding plans you are looking forward to more than any other aspect.

The majority of bridal gowns bought in the UK are classed as ‘off the peg.’ You try on a sample of the gown in the shop; they take your measurements and order the most appropriate size for you which is then delivered to the shop for alterations to fit your exact shape and size.

Don’t panic, there may be a huge amount to do but here is a handy checklist with some of the main points to take into consideration in the build up to the big day!

12 months before…

Choose a wedding date Decide on a budget

Make a list of guests and decide on numbers Book your Church/Ceremony location.

Book your reception venue/ caterers. Choose your Bridesmaids, Ushers and Best Man. Start looking for The Dress!. Choose and book your photographer 8 months before…

Choose bridesmaids’ dresses Book entertainment Choose and order your wedding cake Make an appointment with your chosen florist 6 months before...

Give Notice of Marriage Purchase or hire menswear Select your wedding rings 4 months before...

Send out your wedding

invitations Arrange fittings for the wedding dress and menswear 1 month before...

Arrange a final fitting of your wedding dress your bridesmaids, ushers and best man.

Enjoy your hen and stag parties!

2 weeks before...

Confirm the date and time of the rehearsal to the relevant people 1 week before...

Arrange to collect your wedding dress, bridesmaids dresses and the menswear Have all your beauty treatments Drink plenty of water and have some early nights Relax and enjoy this time

– all your hard work is about to come to completion!

BSP Executive Cars

VIP Corporate & Private Hire Chauffeur Services Including Wedding’s & Prom hire Mobile – 07464 220 220 Email info@bspexecutivecars.co.uk

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Ideal Carehomes Says Thank You To Frontline Staff With £1.5M Investment All hourly paid staff will receive a 5% salary increase in recognition of their commitment throughout the Covid-19 pandemic Residential and dementia care provider, Ideal Carehomes, which operates Coppice Lodge and Fairway View in Nottingham, has announced a £1.5M per annum investment in its team by awarding a 5% salary increase to all hourly paid staff. This is on top of the 2% increase already applied in April this year and takes all salaries above the current real living wage.

All frontline care staff will benefit from the rise, which will mean over £1000 extra per year for a Care Assistant before tax, and Ideal Carehomes has put the increase in place as a thank you for their continued dedication.

Managing Director, Stacey Linn, said, “I am so proud of the whole Ideal Carehomes team. They put themselves on the frontline throughout the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and were full of courage and commitment at a time when we all knew very little about the virus.

Our pay rates were already higher than average but this 5% extra is a thank you for everything our dedicated and highly skilled teams have done and continue to do.”

The substantial pay rise comes shortly after Ideal Carehomes organised a glittering internal awards ceremony to celebrate team members who have gone above and beyond in their roles. It also reflects the ongoing focus on supporting employees who have worked through recent challenging times. Staff have been given access to onsite counselling services, a wellbeing pathway has been put in place for physical and mental health and each team member received a HERO medal as a keepsake of the role they played on the frontline of the pandemic.

Joanne Fletcher, Laundry Assistant at Fairway View​ , said, “The last 18 months have been difficult to say the least but I have always felt supported and valued.

Working in the care sector is a vocation and we don’t do it for money, but to know that you are appreciated by your employer means a lot.”

All Ideal Carehomes' frontline care staff will benefit from a 5% salary increase.

Stacey continued: “We are a people business and our people are at the core of everything we do. It is our job to ensure that they are rewarded for their dedication and commitment via employee recognition and pay but also by supporting them through the tough times. As we all welcome a return to our ‘new normal’, our team continues to provide outstanding care for our residents and we will continue to care for our team.”

Ideal Carehomes employ over 1300 people across 27 care homes throughout Yorkshire, the North West and the Midlands. All homes which have been inspected by the Care Quality Commission are rated as Good or Outstanding.

The company opened five brand new facilities throughout the pandemic and are due to launch another three care homes this year with further homes during 2022. All homes are purpose built and well-appointed and care staff are offered paid breaks and consistent shift patterns along with many other benefits.

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Leivers & Millership: A Family Business You Can Trust Since 1990

We are all for supporting local businesses and we feel Leivers & Millership, from Newstead village in Nottingham, Deserve to be congratulated for their success.

First established in 1990, they have recently celebrated thirty years of business which continues within the same family, specialising in manufacturing and installing quality home improvements at very Reasonable prices.

Leivers and Millership were inspired to start up their business following time working for other similar companies that didn't seem to have the customer caring based work ethic. They then decided to launch their own business with customer satisfaction and fair treatment to be at their core. Throughout

the years, Leivers and Millership have seen a massive change within the industry and have battled to keep the faith and remain an honest, reliable local double glazing company that their customers have learned to rely on. Many of Leivers & Millership staff have been with them since they first began their business in 1990 and they feel its a very nice family business to work for. High praise is deserved for the local business for sticking to what they believe in and not following suit with the stigma attached with many other companies within this industry. They work within 10 miles of Nottingham and have no aspiration to become too big to care or have a nationwide status. The reason they are so

competitive is due to being one of the few companies that still make their own products, therefore, can deliver on shorter time scales and keep their margins down passing the saving on to their customers.

They believe in offering an honest price first time and their guarantee really means guarantee, and is fully insurance backed, they also voluntarily push for accreditations with the most neutral bodies in the industry, including the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (Fensa) and Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF). Speaking to many of their customers who have been using Leivers & Millership for many years, they have received great feedback. One customer said “They have old fashioned morals, always going the extra mile and there's not many companies about like this anymore.”

Another said “I like the fact that when they quoted for our

Manufactured in Newstead Village

conservatory, they gave us their best price and didn't try to reduce the price for us to order on the day. We love our conservatory and use it all year round."

Call: 01623 754048 or visit: www. leiversandmillership.co.uk

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Opportunity For Parents-To-Be, Young People And Families To Shape Services In Retford

Nottinghamshire County Council is encouraging families to guide plans for the future development of services provided from the Retford Central children’s centre building.

Views are being sought from local families, parents-tobe, young people and other interested parties, about their preferences for local services provided from the building.

Residents can have their say about options for developing either a Family Hub or a Maternity Hub in the area.

Family hubs aim to provide opportunities for families

to access a wide range of support services and would be the first of its kind in Nottinghamshire. Services would range from maternity services, through to early years and children 0–19 (25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities).

It is intended that it would be a more joined up range of council services, working alongside bespoke partner services. An alternative option being considered is for a Maternity Hub managed and delivered by Doncaster and Bassetlaw

Hospital Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

This would provide a local centre focused on maternity care for expectant parents.

The council’s children’s centre service would aim to offer family and one-to-one appointments at the centre, with activities remaining in the nearby Hallcroft children’s centre building alongside continued outreach work. The Retford central children’s centre property is owned by the council and at the council’s most recent children and young people’s committee (Monday 13 September), it was agreed to consult

locally with families and other relevant stakeholders on the options being considered.

The council’s children’s centre service is delivered through a network of premises and properties across Nottinghamshire, with increasing amounts of work being delivered through outreach work including home visits.

To ensure families have local access to a range of services to suit their needs, the service’s properties host sessions and clinics delivered by relevant service providers. Since the move to a more targeted service,

there is more space on the timetable for such services, alongside the service’s own provision. Councillor Tracey Taylor, Chairman of the Children and Young People’s committee, said “The council is committed to offering the best service to children, young people and families.

We are consulting because we very much want local people in Retford to have their say on the future of services in the area so that we can find the best fit for families. “Both of the options being considered would be beneficial for local families and increase the service provision in the building.

“The findings will help to shape our recommendations for the development of services for children and families. “ Residents can complete the online survey at https:// consult.nottinghamshire.gov. uk/children-and-familiesservices/8f797519 or by picking-up a printed copy from Hallcroft Retford children’s centre. Young people can complete the survey at https://consult. nottinghamshire.gov.uk/ children-and-familiesservices/4cf0294f or by picking up a printed copy from Retford young people's centre.

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Exercise Programme For Adults With Additional Needs Receives Vital Funding An exercise group that organises classes for adults with additional needs have received vital funding from Reach Rushcliffe to extend the provision into the upcoming winter months.

Working as part of the Meet, Greet and Eat project, the ‘Project Believe’ exercise class organisers have received the funds from Rushcliffe Borough Council’s project that will assist with costs of the qualified trainer, the purchase of equipment and the cost of hiring a venue.

The classes provide participants with physical activity training to improve their mental health and reduce social isolation and to also to give helpful information on weight loss and management, health and nutrition and how to improve balance and coordination.

They meet every Thursday at All Hallows Church Hall in Lady Bay in West Bridgford

and are inviting new members to join the classes.

The Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change Cllr Abby Brennan said: “It’s brilliant to provide funding to another community project that gives essential support to those at risk of social isolation and loneliness in our communities.

“These classes not only provide those attending with a structured exercise routine, which is incredibly important for their physical and mental health, but also a social aspect so members can meet regularly to interact and reconnect.

“As we continue to adapt to a post COVID restrictions environment, it’s vital we continue to support those who may be vulnerable within our community.

“We would encourage any organisations also looking to reduce social isolation in their part of Rushcliffe to

apply for funding through Reach Rushcliffe by visiting www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/ reachrushcliffe/.”

Project Coordinator Farah Jamil said: “We are delighted to receive this funding from Reach Rushcliffe to purchase equipment and continue our classes indoors, as we previously held them outdoors during the warmer summer months.

“Physical exercise is so important and we know health issues can be complex so to be able to fund a trained health professional is amazing, we can now monitor progress and participants’ fitness levels accordingly.

“Many have struggled with mental health over the last year and a half and it has especially affected those with additional needs, so it’s great to be able to give our class attendees an opportunity to continue to progress with this initiative.”

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East Midlands Freeport Reaches Important Milestone Plans for the UK’s only inland freeport have taken a major step forward after an outline business case was submitted to the Government.

The document is part of the process that Government has designed to make all of the planned freeports in England operational as soon as possible and builds on the success of the initial East Midlands Freeport bid earlier this year.

The technical information contained in the document includes analysis that demonstrates how the freeport will contribute around £8.4 billion to the East Midlands economy over the next 30 years alongside its potential to support and create around 55,000 jobs.

The blueprint centres on the East Midlands Freeport’s unique strengths as the UK’s best-connected freeport, located at the heart of the nation’s advanced manufacturing and logistics economy, with plans to boost skills and accelerate the region’s commitment to cutting carbon emissions.

The next stage of the development process will see further plans submitted in December with the ambition to make the freeport fully open for business by March next year.

A wide range partners are behind the bid which is founded on strong public and

private sector collaboration.

Freeports are designed to attract major domestic and international investment they allow places to carry out business inside a country’s land border but different customs rules apply.

At a freeport, imports can enter with simplified customs documentation and without paying tariffs. Businesses operating inside designated areas in and around the port can manufacture goods using the imports and add value before exporting again, without ever facing the full tariffs or procedures.

If the goods move out of the freeport into another part of the country, however, they have to go through the full import process, including paying any tariffs.

Penny Coates, Independent Chair of the East Midlands Freeport Board, said: “I’d like to thank all our partners for the huge amount of hard work they have undertaken to get to this stage.

The close collaboration between the public and private sector right across the region demonstrates the strength of our shared ambition, and it has been great to see the Government’s support for our work throughout. There is still much work to do but we’re ready to continue to work together and alongside

Government to deliver the exciting potential that the freeport offers for our region.

“The freeport creates a huge opportunity for the region to level up some of our most deprived areas, as well as to create much needed jobs, increase further education

and skills, and to encourage business innovation and relocation into the UK. Being the only inland freeport, with its central location and excellent rail, road and air links, it also creates fantastic global connections for all other UK freeport sites.

“The freeport has net zero, innovation and skills at its core.

The idea that we can create a freeport that unites education, innovation and skilled jobs, creates new opportunities and attracts and retains talent within the

region is hugely exciting.”

The outline business case contains commercially sensitive information so remains confidential – but more information about the East Midlands Freeport can be found on its new website. https://www.emfreeport.com/

TO ADVERTISE HERE PLEASE CALL OUR FRIENDY STAFF ON 0115 6972670

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Kids Groan At The Trophy

With the busy month of September now well and truly behind us we entered October with only four fixtures to play. This allowed our players to receive some respite from the very heavy schedule that we have had to endure and also allowed some of the players that have been carrying knocks to get some recovery time.

Carlton Town 2-1 Coleshill Town Our first game at home this month would see us pit our wits against a club that are one of the oldest in NonLeague football and against a team that were sitting in the top two having been undefeated away from home.

As expected this game was to be a good test for ‘The Millers’ as we were coming off the back of two draws and an away win from our previous three fixtures.

Having had a lot of the week later and we were play for the most of the first period we would break the deadlock when new signing Kieran Knight would open his account for the club and take us into half-time with the lead. The second period started pretty much the same as the first half did with Carlton constantly pressing for the second goal to ease the pressure in a game that could still turn at any stage.

With sixty minutes into the game we were rewarded with a penalty which skipper Tom Maddison as he usually does converted well.

The visitors would then pull a goal back five minutes later and this was how the score would stand until the final whistle.

Carlton Town 1-1 Bedworth United (5-4 pens) A week later and we were back at it again with a fixture in the F.A. Trophy and up against opposition that we had already encountered in our first home league fixture this season. Bedworth started brightly and brought the game to us and after only five minutes opened the scoring

to stun ‘The Millers’ faithful.

After this early shock Carlton would continually plug away at the opposition with very little reward against a very robust side that had learnt from our previous encounter and it would take another seventy minutes before there was another goal to be seen.

Carlton gained a free-kick just outside the penalty box and with a bend and a whip Niall Davie struck the inside of the woodwork to level the scores.

The game would finish level and to penalties it would go. One after the other the ball would hit the net before goalkeeper Jack Steggles made a fantastic save to became the hero on the day to see us through.

Carlton Town 4-1 Loughborough Dynamo Back to league action and a visit from Loughborough Dynamo was next on the cards. Another fixture that always produces close fought games was predicted for this one.

However as usual ‘The Millers’ took the game by the scruff of the neck early on but would find it difficult to break through the Dynamo rearguard. Two goals in three minutes around the half-hour mark from Kieran Knight gave us the foothold on the game before the opposition would pull one back five minutes before the break. Immediately ‘The Millers’ responded and with an outrageous Rabona from Nat Watson we would score again when Toby Moore rose like a salmon at the far post to nod home. With the game now pretty much a forgone conclusion the opposition still tried to peg us back but to little avail and with three minute to go Kieran Knight was scoring his third to take the ball home.

Soham Town Rangers 0-6 Carlton Town An away day next and to possibly the furthest trip in our fixture calendar. Soham were no match for us on the

day as they were routed and given a lesson on how to play the game. A brace from Tom Maddison including a penalty, a pair from substitute Aaron Opoku within fifteen minutes and goals in-between from Knight and Blake would send us home with the points well and truly in the bag.

Carlton Town 2-2 Kidsgrove Athletic (4-3 penalties) So it was back to the Trophy and again opposition that were well known to us over the years. Kidsgrove now in the West Division of our code have always produced entertaining fixtures when we have competed with them and this one was no exception. With twenty minutes gone ‘The Millers really should have been twoup and coasting but some stout defending determined otherwise.

It took until the stroke of half-time before the scoring commenced when Tyler Blake slotted home only for the visitors to immediately strike back before the whistle.

No sooner had the second half begun and Nat Watson with a nice bit of trickery put ‘The Millers’ ahead again. The lead lasted only fifteen minutes before a controversial goal was given to the visitors who even stated themselves that the ball hadn’t crossed the line.

The opposition were now back in it and appealing for everything they could get from a game they really shouldn’t have been close to score wise. The fixture would again end in a tie and into penalties it went .Carlton would score four well executed penalties and cometh the man cometh the hour had Jack Steggles again as in the previous round to save the day with two consecutive saves and ensured that ‘The Millers’ were in the hat for the next round of the draw.

With another positive month behind us and a potential

lucrative draw in what will be the First Round proper of the F.A. trophy the club are maintaining our momentum at present. As we all know we can take nothing for granted and that you only get out of it what you put into it.

So again we face a difficult month fixture wise and again

we will not be taking our foot off the gas in our pursuit of glory.

Forthcoming Fixtures: 6th Nov Histon F.C. (h) 13th Nov T.B.C. (F.A.Trophy - 1st Round) 20th Nov Chasetown (a) 27th Nov Corby Town (h)

Article by Phil Jennings

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Serbia Forest Supporters Taking Europe By Storm! this, my hometown of Niš is quite the footballing town.”

I was curious to learn if there were more Nottingham Forest supporters in Serbia.

Again, Milan explained in detail; “It’s hard to tell, I try to find them in each City across Serbia and know there are some from Belgrade.

People know of Forest here for sure, in fact there’s a Nottingham Forest may time, however, his penchant unique saying here, that well have been outside the for the two-time European Nottingham Forest belong in Premier League for 22 years Cup winners was suitably but thanks to the Serbia assisted by the internet which the Premier League!” supporters branch they are helped him to stay in the loop We reverted to the playing side of things where still winning trophies in regarding all things NFFC. Milan acknowledged the Europe. I caught up with I was intrigued by the progression of supporters their Captain and Chairman formation of his 5-a-side club teams all around the Milan Milenovi team, despite the fact there world, he said “I was stunned who regaled upon the are many Forest supporters to see just how many sides fascinating story of how it all clubs in England and existed.” He referred to happened. worldwide, only a handful a fans club tournament on Milan is 42 years of age and wear the famous club crest Facebook, telling himself the comes from Niš in south on the field of play. The following “we must organise Serbia, commonly known as only others that sprung to something like this.” Then the Electronic City in former mind were the New York came Milan’s next idea. “I Yugoslavia. He describes it branch, but I don’t think the noticed that the Bulgarian as a very welcoming place competitiveness was at the capital of Sofia housed the and now the proud home of level of the Serbs, that said, Bulgaria Newcastle United NFFC Serbia Branch.

NYC have a better kit than supporters club. We met I asked Milan how his love the official first team! with them and different for Forest began? “When How did the formation of Forest played Bayern Munich the Serbia Forest Supporters clubs, friendly people with a passion for football, so, we in 1996, it was a special day club team come about? despite losing 2-1, the likes “Officially, it began in 2016,” travelled 110km to Sofia for our first tournament in 2017 of Bryan Roy and Stuart said Milan. “We inspired Pearce really caught my some friends to form similar and from that moment we made such good friends. It’s eye.” Milan explained the clubs like Fulham, Millwall like a brotherhood of fans difficulty in watching the and unbelievably, Basford clubs and from here onwards Reds after this due to the United, Ilkeston Town and we played against each other lack of TV coverage at the Sheffield FC! Because of in similar tournaments in this part of Europe.”

As the Serbia Forest boys amassed more time on the pitch, they began to see their results fluctuate, competing in two to three international tournaments a year as well as friendlies. From third place in their inaugural tournament, they matched this in Dimitrovgrad before

fourth and fifth place finishes next time around in Sofia.

But, as all Forest supporters are aware, it took three years for Brian Clough to win his first major trophy, this was mirrored by the Serbian boys as they lifted their first trophy in 2019. Milan described it as “our brightest year” as they defeated Burnley (Bulgarian supporters) on penalties, Ivica Stojanović with the winning kick.

Ironically, like Clough’s most successful side, Serbia Forest matched their achievements by winning back-to-back European trophies after beating Liverpool (Bulgaria Supporters) once again by virtue of the penalty shootout. Since then, they picked up another third-place tournament finish and landed a local fans club league title before the outbreak of Covid-19. Milan was pragmatic as always in his assessment of the situation, “due to the pandemic we’ve had a very long break from such events, but we WILL be back!”

As the interview neared the end, I learned that Milan is yet to visit England and his beloved City Ground to watch Nottingham Forest in action. “This is painful for me, but I hope someday I can make the journey.”

Despite this, he spoke with real enthusiasm regarding his favourite players both past and present; he waxed lyrical about Bryan Roy, Stuart Pearce, and Chris Cohen before acknowledging the new breed such as Brennan Johnson, Joe Worrall, and Joe Lolley.

Finally, I asked for his musings on the new manager

and the prospects for the first team this season? Milan replied, “I was unsure about Steve Cooper at first but after listening to his press conference I soon changed my mind. I like managers who are willing to take risks and play football, NFFC have certainly changed their ethos on the pitch. The team certainly looks good and is playing better, Johnson has pace and creates many chances, like Zinckernagel also, Grabb’s has started scoring again and I really like Spence and Lowe.

Lolley must return to the form he’s capable of, but I do believe Carvalho will be sold! Colback is solid and in my opinion Mbe Soh is better than Figueiredo, as for Garner, he may play a role but he’s not our player at the end of the day. It doesn’t matter what I think, or others in fact, the onus is on the players to perform to a high level each game and the results will come.”

Milan Milenović beautifully

summed up the mantra of the Serbia Forest supporters club football team, “We want to share nice moments together, we realise that football is more than just a game, we aim to erase every border and boundary and meet with many more people, it’s a wonderful game!”

The Serbia Forest Supporters Club team members: Milan Milenović, Dimitrije Mišić, Nikola Đukić, Marko Božinović, Bojan Panev (GK & player of the tournament), Boris Zdravković, Milan Popović (Tournament top scorer), Andrija Jovanović & Ivica Stojanović.

Written by Steve Corry

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