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Men jailed after firearm conversion operation foiled

Organised crime group members who turned blank-firing guns into live firearms before moving the lethal weapons on have been locked up for a combined 79 years.

Andrew Wheelhouse ran a workshop in a garage at his home in Mansfield Woodhouse where he converted replica pistols into viable firearms and facilitated their onward supply.

The 41-year-old was arrested when armed cops searched his address in Marples Avenue, on 6 July 2021.

During the search they found 15 blank firearms, around 40 blank cartridges, an adapted lathe and drill press which could be used in the process of converting firearms, and metal shavings on and near the tools.

Investigators rumbled a wider criminal enterprise, with group members communicating with each other, and found that blank-firing guns were being turned into lethal live-firing weapons before being moved on to an address in Canver Close, Bilborough.

Thirty-year-old Mitch Butterworth and 29-year-old Amraiz Mahmood were then involved in their onward movement. The pair

moved a silencer in and out of a car at the address in April 2021.

Butterworth returned on subsequent nights, placing a gun he’d taken from the address into a car, and later returned to the property with a handgun and other items.

Butterworth was supported by 29-year-old Matthew Galloway who was involved in facilitating the sale of the converted firearms.

Meticulous work on the investigation revealed that brothers Reuben Thomas, 34, and Tyrone Thomas, 29, were part of the wider conspiracy and led on the further storage, movement, and supply of firearms. They were supported by 29-year-old Umar Alam.

Another man, 37-year-old Darren James, was stopped and arrested in Bourne Mews, Netherfield, on 21 April 2021.

Officers recovered a revolver-type antique firearm, component parts and other items of interest from the BMW he was driving.

Further inquiries established James had bought the firearm in January 2021.

The next day, on the night of 22 April 2021, police stopped two Audis in Bramhall Road, Bilborough.

Within one of the vehicles was a case containing a gun, magazine, and rounds.

The occupants - Alam, Mahmood, Butterworth, Galloway, and Tyrone Thomas - were arrested.

A subsequent search of a linked address in Canver Close, Bilborough, and a car parked on the drive, resulted in the seizure of two converted short-barrelled guns and ammunition, another gun, a loaded magazine, and a silencer.

Investigators working on the case also identified that 28-year-old Leutrim Krasniqi and 25-year-old Ergys Zekaj were involved in the conspiracy and had received converted firearms.

After a seven-week trial at Nottingham Crown Court, the jury returned with the

following verdicts:

Mitch Butterworth, of Canver Close, Bilborough, was found guilty of conspiring to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life – between 1 February 2021 and 23 April 2021.

Butterworth, who also pleaded guilty to possessing a prohibited weapon for sale or transfer– between 1 February 2021 and 23 April 2021 – was jailed for 12 years and four months when he appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing yesterday (Tuesday 18 April 2023).

Andrew Wheelhouse, of Marples Avenue, Mansfield Woodhouse, was found guilty of conspiring to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life and of conspiring to possess a prohibited weapon for sale or transfer– between 1 December 2020 and 7 July 2021. He was locked up for 11 years.

Amraiz Mahmood, of Parkdale Road, Carlton, was found guilty of possessing a prohibited weapon for sale or transfer– between 1 February 2021 and 23 April 2021. He was handed a sentence of six years and eight months.

Matthew Galloway, Reuben Thomas, Tyrone Thomas, Leutrim Krasniqi and Ergys Zekaj were also sentenced having previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess a firearm with intent to endanger life – between 1 February 2021 and 23 April 2021. Galloway, of Douro Drive, Arnold, was jailed for 11 years.

Tyrone Thomas, of Langdale Road, Bakersfield, was given eight years and three months. Reuben Thomas, of Manvers Court, Sneinton, was sentenced to seven years and six months.

Zekaj, of London, was given a sentence of six years and 11 months.

Krasniqi, of Gladstone Park Gardens, London, received a six-year sentence.

Umar Alam, of Barley Close, Carlton, admitted a charge of possessing a prohibited weapon for sale or transfer– between 1 February 2021 and 23 April 2021. He was sentenced to seven years.

Darren James, of Bourne Mews, Netherfield, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm when prohibited from doing so. He was locked up for two years and three months.

Detective Inspector Mark Adas, of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, said: “This gang had an entire production line going, from sourcing and converting these blank-firing guns into viable deadly weapons, to selling them on to those who intended to use them.

"Rife with risk of harm throughout the process, it was imperative that we closed down the whole deadly operation.

"Through our extensive investigation we were able to identify the manufacture, storage, onward movement and supply of these firearms and ammunition across Nottingham and into London.

“This was clearly a resourceful and organised group whose criminal activities posed a serious threat, so I’m pleased our proactive work and detailed investigation has now resulted in significant prison sentences.

“I hope these sentences and our thorough work in this case sends a very clear warning to other criminals about the potential consequences of acquiring and trafficking firearms and endangering the public.”

Football coach proving himself to be a true leader by helping other young people and players

A young football coach who dedicates countless hours to helping other footballers and young people on and off the pitch has been celebrated with an award.

Zeko Smith is a 12-year-old like no other.

He dedicates so much time every week to football training, coaching other young people, encouraging and helping his teammates with their mental wellbeing before games, and supporting coaches of other teams.

His dedication to the game, positive attitude, putting others first, and supporting not only children his age and younger but adults too has led him to be recognised with an award.

After being nominated by his football coach Zeko has been awarded this year's Young Leader of the Year Award.

The award forms part of the Live Our Best Life Awards –launched by Nottinghamshire Police in 2021 to shine a light on the incredible work of young people in the county. Taking to the pitch for most of his life and captaining his team for seven years, Zeko has become a crucial part of Hucknall Warriors.

Zeko said: “I love football because it’s an amazing sport and you get to meet loads of new people, it’s really fun and is a great hobby.

“Every night before a game I’ll put a big comment out onto the WhatsApp chat I created saying ‘come on lads we need to get a win to push us up in the league’, so it will encourage them and us to get those three points.

“And the team loves it and it goes down well.

“I’ll also come off the pitch to let my other teammates have a go against the opposition team and give them a chance to play.

“We had a tough game once and one of my teammates was pretty down and they didn’t have the best game and we didn’t have the best game ourselves.

“So I went up to him after the game, patted him on the back, and said next time you’ll prove who you are, why you play for this club so

he knows to learn from his mistakes.”

With future plans to become a police officer, if football doesn’t work out, he continues to help out other squads as well as his own rise up the leagues.

Zeko added: “When I’m older I want to be a footballer but if I can’t I want to go and be a police officer because I know people who are officers, and they say how good it is and how they are always intrigued by what’s happening and want to investigate.

“I also spend my time helping out with the under 9s matches and training because I love football.

“It gets me more involved in something and seeing them get better and enjoy it but really I just love helping them and watching them improve and fall in love with the game.”

Having played football since the age of six Zeko has worked hard to encourage any teammates that have taken to the pitch and also up-and-coming young people who are just starting out playing football.

Nominator Steve Freestone, coach of Hucknall warriors under 13s team, said: “I nominated Zeko because over the seven years I’ve been coach of Hucknall Warriors he’s always stood out as one of the most inspirational young children I have ever had the privilege of meeting.

“From a very young age, he took on the captain’s role without really being asked to do so. I was really impressed and over those years he’s grown as an individual to take that role - and his attitude towards the team is something way beyond his years.

“Every week he’s really positive and I have my own son who plays in the team and I get to witness some of the pre-match stuff he does.

“Each Saturday he’s always sending WhatsApp messages to the team giving a brief lowdown of what the opposition is like and where we are in the league and how important it is that we all turn up with a really positive attitude.

“On match days and training days, he’s really enthusiastic all the time and has a really positive mindset and that attitude is what rubs off on all of the other children.

“When he first started, I noticed there was a little spark in his eye but over the years as he’s grown up, he’s changed that whole mentality to be much more outward with his positivity.

“His enthusiasm at training and matches as always goes well above and beyond the years I would expect of a 12-year-old.

“I’ve never seen someone who’s grown and developed into a role so seamlessly and so easily and taken it upon himself to just be this amazing character every single time I see him.

“Both on and off the pitch, I’ve got all the time in the world to see him and speak to him because I think he’s such an amazing young man.

“I also nominated Zeko because, in the last two seasons, we started an under 8’s team and his younger brother joined the team at the start of this season, so he voluntarily offered to go help the coach.

“The coach is just a oneman band, and he took it upon himself to go stand with the coach and he’s now at every training session and match.

“There’s something quite magical about seeing a 12-year-old surrounded by 8-year-olds hanging on his every word.

“I just think it’s unbelievable – add that to all the work

he does with the under 13s –he’s just such an inspirational young man.”

Awards founder and youth outreach worker Romel Davis, who met with Zeko recently, said: “Seeing Zeko surrounded by his friends and family and his reaction to winning this award was lovely.

“His dedication not just to the sport but to his whole

team and other players is truly inspirational and shows what a good leader he is.

“This award is all about celebrating people who help others, are a role model, and are inspiring to everyone –Zeko’s attitude and way of thinking has and is really helping his team and the club are incredibly lucky to have such an amazing young person on their team.”

Police teamwork reaps rewards after suspected shop thief and wanted suspect are arrested

A fantastic police team effort led to the swift arrests of a suspected shop thief and a wanted suspect.

Police community support officers Keith Crowhurst and Allan Cooke, both part of the Gedling South Neighbourhood Policing Team, were on duty when they became aware of a suspect being detained by security staff for theft of items from the TK Maxx store at the Victoria Retail Park in Netherfield.

The PCSOs helped detain the suspect until response colleague PC James Gill arrived to arrest him.

While they were dealing with this incident, another man was spotted cycling away from the retail park who was identified as being wanted for failing to appear in court in relation to a drug driving offence.

The man was quickly stopped and detained by a Gedling Operation Reacher team officer who additionally arrested him on suspicious of possession of cannabis.

Police were in the right place at the right time to make the arrests, on Thursday 13 April 2023, and it was another example of the force’s determination to work closely with local businesses to crack down on shop theft and prevent crime.

Gedling neighbourhood policing inspector Mark Stanley said: “Our priority is protecting people and property and we are totally determined to keep doing everything we can to keep our local communities safe, including working closely with our partners to address concerns and find solutions to problems.

"That close partnership work is ongoing, and I’d like to reassure people we will continue to do everything we can to tackle issues in our neighbourhoods based on the priorities people have told us they want us to focus on.”

The suspect arrested over the TK Maxx incident was subsequently charged with four counts of shop theft and a further charge of going equipped for theft.

Albert Marin, aged 45, of no fixed address, appeared at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (15 April 2023). He was granted conditional bail, including a condition not to enter any TK Maxx store, and is next due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 12 May 2023.

The man arrested for failing to attend court, 53-year-old Paul Asbury, of no fixed address, appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Friday (14 April).

He was given a 12-month driving ban, ordered to pay a £120 fine, £85 court costs and a £48 victim surcharge.

Ten Notts libraries to benefit from a share of £50,586 for self-service equipment

Ten libraries in Nottinghamshire are to benefit from a cash windfall worth thousands of pounds to improve digital infrastructure in the buildings. The libraries will share £50,586 as part of the latest round of funding from

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Libraries Improvement Fund, set up to transform library services in England.

Over the past 12 years, Nottinghamshire County Council has installed self-service checkout kiosks in many of its libraries, giving staff more time to develop events and activities on offer and help with more complex enquiries.

A further ten self-service checkout kiosks will now be installed at the following li-

braries thanks to the funding:

• Balmoral

• Bilsthorpe

• Blidworth

• Carlton Hill

• Carlton in Lindrick

• Gedling

• Huthwaite

• Inham Nook

• Langold

• Sutton Bonington

The kiosks are quick (issuing 12 books in less than 30 seconds) and easy to use.

In the libraries where kiosks have already been introduced, most of the books

issued are now processed through them. This has freed up time for librarians to help customers find information, order books and maintain events and activities on offer such as the successful Summer Reading Challenge which inspires children to enjoy reading as part of their summer holidays.

Many local authorities across the UK have closed libraries due to reducing budgets but the Council is committed to keeping libraries open.

Mark Walker, Service Director for Place at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "We are always looking for ways to use technology to make sure our services are best placed to respond to the changing ways people are using them.

"The introduction of self-service kiosks at these libraries will open up the library space and free up librarians’ time to add value where it counts.

“Customer’s reaction in our other libraries has been very positive and I’m sure library users will embrace the new technology.

“Staff will be on hand to help people use the new self-service kiosks but it is anticipated that the new technology will free them to do the thing they do best - help with enquiries, focus on customers who most need their help and deliver popular programmes within the library.”

Notts voluntary groups invited to apply for £750,000 worth of community-boosting grants

Voluntary organisations and community groups helping improve the health and well-being of Nottinghamshire residents can now apply for a range of financial support thanks to the Local Communities Fund.

The four sets of grants open until Sunday 4 June are:

Cost-of-Living grants (Eligible groups can apply for up to £5,000)

Open for a second round, £150,000 is once again available to support groups who are helping residents most in need. This is part of a wider package of support by Nottinghamshire County Council to help those most affected by rising food and energy costs. Two types of grants are available and aimed at groups who are:

• Helping those who are struggling to buy nutritious food to help improve health and well-being and build resilience. This may include projects such as ‘cook and eat’ sessions where residents can better plan, cook and share nutritious, affordable meals.

• In need of a contribution towards their own rising

energy bills to help keep their welcoming and warm centres and halls open across the county.

Eligible groups who applied for the first round of these grants (which were open between 7 December 2022 to 29 January 2023) are able to apply again ( including those who were successful)

Capital grants (Eligible groups can apply for up to £20,000)

£500,000 has been earmarked for this year (April 2023-March 2024) for groups to make improvements to facilities that help improve health and wellbeing, as well as projects with an environmental focus. These include:

• Improvements to sporting facilities;

• Play areas and/or equipment;

• Green/horticultural improvements to open spaces;

• Heritage improvements, signposts and information boards to improve the visitor experience.

Revenue grants (Eligible groups can apply for up to £5,000)

An annual pot of £100,000

has been set aside to help projects with their day-to-day running costs such as paying wages and bills. Applications from a range of projects are welcomed, including:

• Summer play schemes

• Projects that tackle digital exclusion, good neighbourhood schemes, dementia-friendly communities and food/lunch clubs.

• Encouraging local networks where people help themselves and each other to be resilient, neighbourly and safe;

• Increasing volunteering opportunities;

• Addressing climate and environmental change;

• Improving access to existing community-based services (e.g. advice and signposting), for the most vulnerable residents.

Eligible groups can apply for all four types of grants to help meet specific needs in line with the criteria. Each application will need to clearly explain how the money will be used, if successful.

All applications for revenue and capital funding must provide a supporting statement from an elected Notting-

hamshire County Councillor for the area in which the proposed project will be delivered.

For further details of eligibility criteria as well as how to apply go to: www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/LCF

Mark Walker, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Interim Service Director for Place and Communities said, “We are delighted that local groups can once again apply for our range of grants to suit their different needs as part of this year’s Local Communities Fund. This Fund has the common aim of improving the lives of our residents, particularly their health and well-being.

“And to help simplify the process, groups now have two opportunities a year to apply for capital and revenue grants. Following this current window, the next application window is expected to be open from 2 October 2023.

“Our cost-of-living grants

continue to go from strengthto-strength with groups also invited to apply for these grants from today. This 17-month scheme is worth a total of £450,000 to specifically help those groups who support those who are most affected by rising living costs.”

The first round of cost-ofliving grants worth £150,000 were awarded to 87 groups in March 2023. These included those with a county-wide focus:

• £1,135 awarded to the International Development Foundation for Community Integration & Support Services, based in New Basford to help with its work offering a range of support, including providing food to members of African heritage, especially those new to the county.

• £1,630 to help pay the energy bills and running costs of the Nottingham Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre Limited. This organisation

helps manage the symptoms of Nottinghamshire residents with a range of chronic health conditions.

• £1,000 went to the Old Basford-based Sensory Learning & Play C.I.C to help towards energy and food costs to help them continue their therapy work with low income and disadvantaged groups across the county.

• £1,070 awarded to Nottingham-based The Carers Federation Limited to help with food costs as part of their cross-county project giving advice to young carers on how to cook and supporting them with easy and nutritious recipes that can be replicated cheaply and easily in the home.

For further financial support and advice, check the council’s dedicated cost of living support page: www. nottinghamshire.gov.uk/ business-community/cost-ofliving-support

Police officers deliver life-saving measures at suicide hotspot

Two police officers who rescued a distressed woman from a bridge known as ‘a local suicide hotspot’ have helped introduce measures to prevent further lives being put at risk.

PC Matt Leask and PC Rich Reynolds, who cover Eastwood, were on patrol on New Year’s Eve when they noticed a woman dangling from Tinsley Bridge.

The pair managed to calm her down before bringing her to safety.

The bridge also sits above one of the busiest roads in the county – the A610 – linking Nottinghamshire to Derbyshire with speeds at 70mph. Any potential suicide attempt off the bridge would also be putting the lives of

motorists in danger.

Both officers felt more could be done and built up a case to ensure barriers were installed to prevent any further suicide attempts.

The officers worked with Broxtowe Borough Council and the highways department to bring their ideas to fruition.

They hope these measures will ensure Tinsley Bridge loses its reputation as a suicide hotspot after there was at least 31 suicide attempts between April 2021 to April 2023.

PC Leask said: “On New Year’s Eve in 2021, me and my colleague PC Rich Reynolds were on patrol when we saw a distressed woman on the other side of the bridge.

“She explained how she was not very happy, had a low mood and was suicidal. We got close enough, calmed her down, before we managed

to bring her to safety. The police mental health team then arrived to take over.

“From that day forward we both decided there must be more we can do to protect and support the people of Eastwood and felt that Tinsley Bridge was in clear need of preventative and supportive measures.

“Any measure we wanted to put in place would also protect the motorists below.

“This is a very busy road with vehicles driving at 70mph and if a car is forced to swerve, we could be dealing with multiple casualties or fatalities.

"Sometimes, there is a perception we just lock people up when in fact some of the most important work that we do is keeping people safe especially when they are at their lowest point. Hopefully these measures show how much we want to protect the public.”

PC Reynolds added: “I have been to multiple incidents with PC Leask where people have attempted suicide, so this has encouraged us even more to try and

prevent it happening again.

“We hope these measures will prevent people going to the bridge and they will seek the support they need. Not only are there barriers preventing those in distress accessing the other side of the bridge, there is signage directing them to the support they need.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Mike Ebbins added:

“Neighbourhood Policing is all about identifying issues in the community and then working with partners to solve the problem. There is no better example of this in action then here at Tinsley Bridge.

“The location is a known spot for those attempting or threatening suicide. The officers have identified the urgent need for preventative

measures and support for those in need. I am immensely proud of PC Leask and PC Reynolds for their perseverance and hard work here."

“We will always be there to help people at their lowest points and these measures I hope will go some way to protecting those who find themselves at Tinsley Bridge.”

Tour of Britain set to return to Nottinghamshire for a fourth time

The world-famous Tour of Britain cycle race is set to return to Nottinghamshire for a fourth time in September 2023.

Robin Hood county has hosted the showpiece event three times since 2017, with the most recent visit taking place last September when a star-studded field raced from West Bridgford to Mansfield. This year’s race will see Nottinghamshire host the finish of a cross-region shared stage in the first week of September.

Details of the route are yet to be confirmed, but it is expected the county will host more than 60 miles of the stage.

The return of the race to Nottinghamshire last year boosted the local economy by £4.34m in net visitor expenditure – with an impressive 225,000 fans lining the 116mile route.

County Council Leader, Councillor Ben Bradley MP, says it is a real coup for Nottinghamshire to be in line to host the race for a fourth time.

He said: “Nottinghamshire is a county with a rich sporting heritage, and we are absolutely delighted that the Tour of Britain will once again pass through our towns and villages.

“We have demonstrated on the three previous occasions that we can successfully host what is a truly major event on Britain’s sporting calendar, and I would expect the same in 2023.

“There are countless benefits to the Tour of Britain returning for our businesses and visitor economy, for our communities, for our health and for Nottinghamshire in general, including the chance to again be on a global stage via a television audience of millions.

“We’re all very excited at the prospect of the Tour returning to Robin Hood county for a fourth time and once again we can’t wait to see our towns and villages awash with the colour as they give the riders and teams a true Nottinghamshire welcome.”

Full details of the Nottinghamshire stage – including

the route and finish location – will be announced at a later date.

The modern-day Tour of Britain was launched in 2004 and – apart from the Covid-19 pandemic forcing its

cancellation in 2020 – has taken place annually every September over eight days. It is British cycling’s premier road event and will feature the world’s top teams and riders, alongside the best

British-based cyclists, with a field expected to be made up of Tour de France winners, Olympians and world champions.

Live coverage of the race is shown daily in the UK on

ITV4, in addition to around the world.

The Tour of Britain is part of the UCI ProSeries, making it one of the most prestigious sporting events in the sport’s global calendar

NOTTINGHAM FROM THE AIR

This month’s aerial photo shows Victoria Leisure Centre and Sneinton Market. 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 details about getting involved phone 0115-8541028 or visit www.facebook.com/ndhabc

Photo by Robin Macey

£1.2 million for rural gigabit broadband for libraries and schools through devolution deal

The Government have made £1.2 million of funding available for new gigabit broadband for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham.

It means that an extra 118 rural public sector schools and libraries will be connected to gigabit broadband. When complete, it will help librarians and teachers and allow whole classes to be online at once with no interruptions.

The funding is part of early investment offered to the area as part of devolution negotiations. It is not dependent on devolution proposals going ahead.

The scheme is just one part of local housing, infrastructure, and environmental funding to benefit Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham, worth a total of £18 million, made possible through devolution.

Programmes which have already been approved are:

£750,000 for a new cycling and walking route in Derbyshire, a 1¼ mile link connecting Markham Vale to the existing cycle route in Staveley.

• £1.5 million for the new roundabout on the A6 at Fairfield in Buxton, Derbyshire, allowing access to housing development land. The roundabout provides access to sites for 461 new homes, including 30% classified as affordable. It also brings work to an area of social deprivation. This work has been completed, with the funding which has just been approved going towards the cost.

• £1.5 million for a new growth through green skills. The investment will enable the creation of a new £5.4

million flagship skills centre and low carbon demonstrator in our region, to be operated by West Nottinghamshire College, as well as two electric minibuses for getting students to and from the site, to support the growth of a future low carbon economy as we work towards net zero.

• £2 million for a new long-term private rental scheme to address homelessness in Nottingham City and Derby City and reduce the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for housing.

• £1.22 million for more

affordable housing in Derby City, where there is currently a shortage, to provide 15 extra social houses to be let at an affordable rent. It will mean less reliance on temporary bed and breakfast placements and shorter waiting times for longerterm accommodation.

Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council have been working with the Government on devolution plans including a package of local powers and funding worth £1.14 billion, from 2024. If the plans go ahead,

it would also mean a new regional mayor.

The leaders of the four councils signed up to work on a devolution deal on 30 August this year at Rolls Royce in Derby. Since August, the councils have developed a more detailed proposal, which includes more information about how devolution would work in our area. The proposal was the subject of a public consultation, which took place from 14 November 2022 to 9 January 2023.

Devolution would mean a new guaranteed funding stream for our region of £38 million a year over a 30-year period. Covering Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham, the devolved area would cover around 2.2 million people, making it one

of the biggest in the country.

The devolution deal includes an extra £16 million for new homes on brownfield land and control over a range of budgets like the Adult Education Budget, which could be better tailored to the needs of people in our communities.

The regional mayor would lead a new combined authority, which would include representatives from existing local councils, with decision making powers and resources moving from London to the East Midlands. Local businesses would also have a voice, as well as other organisations.

Devolution would not mean scrapping or merging local councils, which would all continue to exist as they do now and would still be

responsible for most public services in the area. The mayor and combined authority would instead focus on wider issues like transport, regeneration, and employment across both cities and counties.

The public consultation on devolution, open to residents, businesses, community groups and other organisations, took place from 14 November to the 9 January. Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council, and Nottingham City Council are all meeting in March to consider the results of the consultation and decide on the next steps.

For more information about devolution, please visit www.eastmidlandsdevolution.co.uk

Property Investment Outlook for 2023

If you are a property investor, it is great news to know that the balance in the property market is now clearly shifting back from sellers to buyers.

This means, if you are looking to start or build a portfolio of investment properties, and you are not looking to sell before 2025, you could find there is money to be made. The Office for Budget Responsibility predicts property prices will fall by 9% over the course of 2023/24 before growth returns to the market in 2025.

In addition, the majority of residential property purchasers will benefit from the nil rate of Stamp Duty taxation on properties purchased for up to £250,000 (£425,000 if you are a first-time buyer).

Note if you already own more than one residential property, you may have to pay stamp duty and it may be at a higher rate. The Prime Minister has confirmed the nil rate band will remain in place until 31st March 2025.

For landlords, the rental market will continue to stay strong, with many first-time home buyers continuing to struggle to get on the ladder. This is due to tough lending requirements asking for high deposits and high interest rates, which make it difficult or near impossible for the East Midlands average £35K salaried employee to even get a mortgage approval in the first place. Many will have no choice but to continue to rent until the market

and economy improves. Property investment areas to keep your eye on Many of our local East Midlands areas have seen a 12-month price increase in 2022 vs 2021, such as Chesterfield and Northampton which saw the largest price increases, at 5-8%.

Two areas that have seen the largest a property price decreases were Mansfield at -3% and Derby at -8%.

The average house price in Nottinghamshire in 2022 was £234K, with the majority of the houses priced between £150200K. Bolsover, conveniently located directly off the M1 saw an average sale price of £179K, Mansfield only slightly higher at £189K and

Ashfield and Nottingham averaged, almost neck and neck, at £196-197K.

In addition, if you look at the price per square foot, Mansfield was the lowest at £274 psf vs Chesterfield who sat at the top of the pack at £362 psf.

How fast do you need to move on making a purchase offer?

In the East Midlands homes are currently selling in 40 days, not far off the 47 day average we saw in early 2022, but much less than the 60 days we were seeing in 2020.

The good news is that conveyancing matters are progressing much faster now that the market has slowed, especially compared to the extremely

busy market that transpired during the pandemic.

Example of legal costs for conveyancing and tax

If we look at the average house priced at £234K, if you do not currently own any other residential property, you would pay £0 Stamp Duty Tax and at Hopkins Solicitors we charge £925 in conveyancing fees, £337 in search fees and finally £150 in Land Registry fees.

How Hopkins Solicitors can help you with your next property investment

When it comes to buying a property, Hopkins know it’s all about keeping the costs down and moving as quickly and as

smoothly as possible. Our fees are extremely competitive and also transparent right from the start so you won’t find any hidden and unexpected charges. And we are proud to say we hold one of the highest client satisfaction rates in the county.

Visit our website and try our quick and easy free instant online conveyancing fees calculator to find out exactly how much you’ll need to budget for.

Hopkins Solicitors

Phone: 01623 468 468

Web: www.hopkins-solicitors.co.uk

Email: housemove@hopkins-solicitors.co.uk

Offices: Mansfield, Sutton, Kirkby and Nottingham

DINING OUT: THE BREAKFAST CLUB

A tree-lined drive creates the impressive approach to Beeston Fields Golf Club. Offering one of the best golf courses in Nottinghamshire and also a traditional country house, built during 1837 by Alfred Thomas, this venue covers 135 acres. Open to members and non-members alike, the restaurant attracts numerous ‘regulars’ (always a positive sign), including a good number of diners and visitors from further away, who have ‘discovered’ Beeston Fields, perhaps from a recommendation. The Georgian-style marquee, walled garden and spacious lawns

offer one of Nottinghamshire’s premier wedding and event venues, with requirements arranged in detail, by a multi award-winning events team.

For restaurants and eateries that offer breakfasts, one which comes top of the ratings is Beeston Fields Break-

fast Club. From Light Bites, through English Breakfasts, to Breakfasts from around The World, the Breakfast Club at Beeston Fields has proved very popular from the outset and is open to everyone.

The greeting from Ravinder is welcoming and genuine. Light Bites include Granola Bowl (Greek yoghurt, fresh fruit, raspberry coulis, honey, flax seeds, oats). Sourdough Toast choices, with several accompaniments, including Eggs Benedict, Eggs Royale, Cowboy Woodland and Beeston Stack are all very popular. Beeston Fields Full English has two rashers of

smoked back bacon, two free range eggs, two Lincolnshire sausages, grilled tomato, black pudding, hash brown, mushrooms, baked beans and toast. Breakfasts from around The World are very popular – just looking about – and include All American Pancakes, Turkish Eggs, plus Mexican Huevos Rancheros. I opted for Granola Bowl to commence and then Mexican Huevos Rancheros (Poached eggs baked in a chipotle tomato sauce, red peppers, coriander). With complementing flavours, I was most impressed – Compliments to Chef. Teas, coffees and

other beverages complete the breakfast experience.

Other dining menus include Clubhouse, Lunch, Sunday Carvery and Afternoon Tea options. Head Chef Joe Richards ensures, with his brigade of chefs and kitchen personnel, that everything is very memorable. Vouchers are available – perhaps for

a special surprise? Booking is advised, particularly for popular times. Highly recommended.

Beeston Fields, Old Drive, Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 3DA. Tel: 0115 925 7062

E-mail: info@beestonfields.co.uk www. beestonfields.co.uk

Facebook: beestonfields

Twitter: beestonfields 1 Instagram: beestonfields

THE SWEET ‘Full Circle’ UK Tour announced for December 2023 coming to Nottingham

Sweet are back, and you’re not going to want to miss out come December as they go Full Circle!

A National Treasure and Glam Rock Royalty who have taken the world by storm for six decades, Sweet are at their best, performing all their iconic hits to audiences from every continent, all over the world. From the beginning to the end … Full Circle!

Guitarist/vocalist Andy Scott, the sole surviving original member at the heart of the band and the golden thread linking Sweet’s proud past to the present, is still fiercely protective of that legacy today as ever.

Understandably he knows better than anyone that the long tours can’t carry on indefinitely, with the band now looking to ‘wind down’ some of their live commitments.

Andy explained, “This could be our last tour, but that doesn’t mean to say we’re not going to do any more gigs, just that we might not be doing 15-20 dates strung together. Then again, we might!”

Scoring 15 momentous top-40 hits in the Seventies, eight going top-five – including classic 1973 UK No.1 ‘Blockbuster’ – Sweet perfected the art of making memorable records in a highly-competitive era.

As well as the fire and steel shown in the recording studio and the glamour and excitement they transmitted onto our TV screens, there’s live passion too, something Andy plus bandmates Paul Manzi (lead vocals), Bruce Bisland (drums, vocals), Lee Small (bass guitar, vocals) and Tom Cory (guitar, keyboards) are keen to ensure remains. The present line-up has made an impact in the charts with recent single releases too.

And you can witness that first-hand as they return to the road leading up to Christmas.

Sweet’s Full Circle Tour of 13 dates opens in Wrexham (where Andy played his first gig at a church hall 60 years ago) and ends in

Frome, Wiltshire (close to his West Country base of 30-plus years).

From the breakthrough hit ‘Co-Co’ in 1970 to 1978’s ‘Love is like Oxygen’ and all points between and beyond. There is also the instant nostalgia of unforgettable classics such as ‘The Ballroom Blitz’, ‘Fox on the Run’, ‘Hellraiser’, ‘Little Willy’, ‘Teenage Rampage’, ‘Action’ and ‘Wig-Wam Bam’.

All in all, we’re talking 53 years of hit singles, 55 million albums and 34 No.1s, from a band that’s clearly stood the test of time. So don’t miss out. Altogether now, “You better beware, you better take care …”

You can see The Sweet at Nottingham’s Rock City on Wednesday 20th December 2023. Tickets can be purchased from www.thegigcartel.com/Artisits-profiles/ The-Sweet.htm

£518,000 awarded to Papplewick Pumping Station to restore important historical assets.

Papplewick Pumping Station was one of more than 70 cultural organisations across the country this week to be given a financial boost by Arts Council England so they can improve people’s access to arts, and safeguard vital local collections and heritage buildings for future generations to enjoy.

The money will come from the Arts Council England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) which the pumping station applied to in September last year. The application requested financial support to repair and stabilise the 120ft tall chimney, the engine house’s ornate wooden porch and the site’s boundary wall.

The total work is projected to cost £580,000 and the pumping station’s landlord, Severn Trent Water, has pledged to contribute a further £58,840. The remaining funds will be matched by the museum.

Ashley Smart, Museum Director at the

pumping station, said ‘We are delighted to have been awarded the funding from Arts Council England. This money, along with the generous contribution from Severn Trent Water, will enable us to carry out essential repair works and safeguard the future of the site for many years to come’.

Laura Ward, Project Development Officer at Severn Trent, said: ‘Severn Trent are exceedingly pleased to be able to work with Papplewick on this important project. Our heritage assets are hugely important to us, and we will continue to preserve them for future generations’.

The planning and procurement for the project will commence this year, with the onsite restoration works starting in February 2024.

The funding will be delivered by Arts Council England on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

5 DAYS OF MUSIC AND COMEDY IN THE ROYAL SHAKESPEARE THEATRE

Live at the RSC returns to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon between Wednesday 31 May and Sunday 4 June with a festival of live music and comedy, in association with Orchestra of the Swan and Underbelly.

Alice Tomlinson, RSC Public Programmes Developer, said “We are delighted to bring Live at the RSC back to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre for the first time since the pandemic. We’ve got a fantastic line up, both of live music - courtesy of our community partner, Orchestra of the Swan – along with some of the best names in comedy. It promises to be five days of early Summer entertainment not to be missed.”

Wednesday 31 May, 7.15pm

Red Sky at Sunrise: Laurie Lee in Words & Music

Presented by Orchestra of the Swan

Tickets: £15-£22

The programme opens with a unique performance by Orchestra of the Swan who present Red Sky at Sunrise: Laurie Lee in Words & Music. Red Sky at Sunrise

follows Lee's extraordinary journey through his muchloved trilogy, Cider with Rosie, As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning and A Moment of War, from growing up in Gloucestershire, to fighting with the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War. Laurie Lee is performed by Anton Lesser and Charlie Hamblett, with music from Orchestra of The Swan, featuring Mark Ashford on guitar.

Thursday 1 June, 7.15pm

Thursday Night Comedy: Charlie Baker, Nina Conti and Rachel Parris

Presented by Underbelly

Tickets: £18.50 - £27.50

Some of stand-up comedy’s best and brightest take to the stage for the opening night of the comedy programme. Join the incomparable MC Charlie Baker (as seen on The Last Leg & The Great British Bake Off: Extra Slice, as heard on TalkSport) as he presents two incredible performers Nina Conti and Rachel Parris. Nina is the quick-thinking queen of ventriloquism and British

Comedy Award winner.

Rachel is a BAFTA nominated comedian, musician, actor and improviser, best known for her viral segments on BBC2's The Mash Report and now as the host of Dave's Late Night Mash.

Friday 2 June, 7.15pm

Friday Night Comedy: Ian Smith, Mark Watson, Fern Brady, Zoe Lyons and Sarah Keyworth

Presented by Underbelly

Tickets: £18.50 - £27.50

What better way to round out the week than with a huge line up of some of the best comedians in the land! Delightful Yorkshireman

Ian Smith (as heard on his own BBC Radio 4 comedy documentary) hosts Taskmaster stars Mark Watson and Fern Brady as well as Zoe Lyons (as heard on BBC’s News Quiz, The Now Show) and Sarah Keyworth (as seen on BBC One’s Live at the Apollo).

Saturday 3 June, 7.15pm

Saturday Night Comedy: Ivo Graham, Rhys James, Jessica Fostekew, Celya AB and Tadiwa Mahlunge

Presented by Underbelly

Tickets: £18.50 - £27.50

A perfect night of comedy for a Saturday night. Leading the charge is the fantastic MC Ivo Graham (as seen on BBC One’s Live at the Apollo and appearing in the next season of Taskmaster). Joining him will be Rhys James (as seen as a series regular on Mock The Week), Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show

Nominee Jessica Fostekew, and two of the rising stars of comedy Celya AB and Tadiwa Mahlunge.

Sunday 4 June, 2.30pm

Austentatious – An Improvised Jane Austen Novel

Presented by Underbelly

Tickets: £18.50 - £27.50

The award-winning smashhit comedy, as seen in the West End and heard on Radio 4. The all-star Austentatious cast will improvise a hilarious new Jane Austen novel, inspired entirely by a title from the audience. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, it’s a riotous, razor-sharp show where swooning is guaranteed.

Why Fantasy Island Is The Perfect Place For A Picnic

After spending so much time indoors, it’s fair to say we are all looking for ways to spend more time outside. Going for a picnic is the perfect idea for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, bask in the sun and relax with friends and family. Fantasy Island is the ideal spot, and here are just a few reasons why.

Somewhere different

If you’re tired of going to the same parks every day, having a picnic at Fantasy Island is a fantastic change of scenery. If your kids are sick of the same days out in Lincolnshire,

our theme park offers an incredible range of spots to enjoy your sandwiches and scones. Whether you want to watch the roller coasters race by or relax on the Island Beach, there are so many places to choose from to enjoy your lunch. With so much to see and do, you will never be bored again.

Food stalls

If you’ve forgotten your sandwiches at home (or you don’t trust your own cooking!) we have an enormous range of food stalls offering incredible meals, snacks and desserts. Choose from over 40 eateries for delicious pizza, Chinese, fish and chips and so much more. This is perfect for fussy eaters, anyone with allergies or dietary requirements or simply for families who can never agree on where to eat! With so many options, you’re sure to find something to suit every taste.

No queuing or booking needed

Since everyone is keen to get out and about these days, finding a place to set up and enjoy a picnic is getting harder and harder. At Fantasy

Island, you’ve no need to waste time by queuing or booking in advance. Although we recommend you buy wristbands online if you are planning to enjoy the rides, if you just want to come in and enjoy the atmosphere, you don’t need to book or wait in line.

Bring your dogs

When we say fun for all the family, we mean ALL the family! Bring your furry family members along for the picnic; as long as they are on a lead, they are more than welcome on site. With so many reasons to visit, what are you waiting for? Host your next family

picnic at Fantasy Island and find out why we are one of the best day trips in the UK!

Matlock Bath in the Peak District

Matlock Bath was developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations. It occupies a beautiful position in a limestone gorge on the River Derwent, and boasts attractive riverside gardens and steep wooded hillsides.

Matlock Bath has been a popular tourist attraction since the late 17th Century, when the healing properties of its warm spa waters were first discovered. Access to the area was improved in the 18th Century, and by the 19th Century Matlock Bath was a place for society’s finest to visit.

The town is still a wonderful place to visit, with a long street of shops, cafes, amusement arcades and places of interest, including an aquarium and photographic museum. The riverside walks are great for peaceful, shady strolls, and there is a good children’s playground area to keep younger visitors

Running throughout September and October, the Matlock Bath Illuminations are well worth a visit. The beautiful riverside park is illuminated and filled with stalls and fairground rides, while brightly-lit and decorated rowing boats parade along the river. On Saturday nights throughout the event there are fabulous firework displays that light up the gorge.

Gulliver’s Kingdom

Matlock Bath is home to this large, family-friendly theme

park, which is within walking distance of the town centre. It is particularly suited to visitors aged 13 and under. The park is located high on a hill overlooking the town, which adds an extra element of thrill to the rides! Please see www. gulliversfun.co.uk/gullivers-kingdom-matlock-bath for more information.

Peak District Lead Mining Museum

Located within the Grand Pavilion, the eye-catching pink building at the top of the main street, the Peak District Lead Mining Museum tells the story of the mines and miners of this area. It houses thousands of items from the lead mining industry, as well as hundreds of rock and mineral specimens from around the world. See www.peakdistrictleadminingmuseum.co.uk for more details.

Crich Tramway Village

Located just a short drive outside Matlock Bath, the fabulous Crich Tramway Village is a fabulous place to spend a day,

with plenty to keep the whole family happy. It is home to the National Tramway Museum, with more than 60 vintage trams for visitors to admire in airy exhibition halls, and it also features a beautifully recreated period village with a pub, café and olde-worlde shops.

A number of the trams run through the village and can be hailed at historic tram stops. Visitors pay one old penny (original coin included in the admission price) to take unlimited rides for more than a mile into the surrounding countryside, with stunning views of the surrounding Derwent Valley. There is also a Woodland Walk with a sculpture trail that is perfect for keeping little people interested along the way, as well as a picnic area and a children’s playground. See www. tramway.co.uk for more information.

amused. Matlock Bath Illuminations

Bakewell Farmers' Market

Generally held on the last Saturday of every month, the District Council's popular Bakewell Farmers' Market is now regularly attracting more than 5,000 visitors and is so popular that many of the 70 stall holders are selling out before closing time – and there is a waiting list of more than 50 traders.

The Farmers' Markets are organised by Derbyshire Dales District Council and are held at the District Council's Agricultural Business Centre (ABC).

Outdoor stalls and bustle at Bakewell Farmers' MarketThe Agricultural Business Centre is now not only widely recognised as home to one of the UK's top five livestock markets – it has the second largest farmers' market in the country,

with only Winchester boasting a larger number of stall holders.

With more than 9,000 conferences staged at the Agricultural Centre since it opened and 75 livestock auctions a year involving 300,000 animals, the Agricultural Business Centre is a thriving operation and a true 'one-stop shop' service for the rural community.

The added bonus is that local hotels and businesses in and around Bakewell are reaping the benefits of the trade we generate. Several local shops and cafes employ extra staff on Farmers' Market days to meet demand.

Plentiful parking is available at the Agricultural Business Centre in Bakewell.

Blackpool is preparing to celebrate the King’s Coronation in right royal style on Sun 7th May

The resort will mark the historic event with a majestic heritage tram parade along the seafront, a Big Lunch outdoor picnic with free entertainment on the Tower Festival Headland, a live screening of the Coronation concert from Windsor Castle, ending with a

dazzling, specially-themed light show. The events taking place on the 7 May are staged in association with the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) and partners. Please note that there will be live filming and photography at this event.

Scotlands Gardens - Cally Gardens Open for Charity

Sunday 7th May

10am-5pm @ Gatehouse of Fleet

Cally Gardens and specialist plant centre is a treasure trove of rare and exotic hardy plants gathered worldwide. The towering 18th century walls of the former kitchen garden of Cally House provide shelter for informal gardens created by the famous plant collector Michael Wickenden and now curated by plantsman and ecologist Kevin Hughes. Open from 10-5 Teas and Plant sales.

Admission £5.00 per adult and children free. Further details www.scotlandsgardens.org

WWT Caerlaverock Coronation Big Helpout

Monday 8th May

10am-4:30pm @ WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire DG1 4RS

You are cordially invited to be part of the WWT Caerlaverock team. Take a guided tour of our site and find out more about our visitor centre engagement volunteer role. Make a nest box and enjoy a free cream tea as part of our celebration event for the coronation big helpout. No need to book. Guided tours at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/caerlaverock/

Scotlands Gardens - Arbigland House Open for Charity

Sunday 14th May

2pm-5pm @ Arbigland House, Kirkbean Dumfries DG2 8BQ

Arbigland House is an Adam-style 18th Century mansion surrounded by 24 acres of woodland gardens running down to a beach on the Solway Firth. The gardens date from the 18th Century with more formal areas developed in the 19th and early 20th century. They are currently undergoing a programme of restoration and redevelopment. Within the woodland gardens, with its extensive collection of trees and a variety of Rhododendrons and azaleas, are a range of features including a sundial garden, rose garden, stream fed lake and Japanese garden.

Admission £5 children free. Teas available at John Paul Jones museum. Short tours available for principal rooms of the house.

Calderdale terraces

Calderdale Terraces have been offering short term holiday lets in Hebden Bridge for over 12 years . The original home backs on to the lane in which “Catherine’s conservatory” is located, featured often in the Happy Valley series.

The house was inherited by Paul Murphy, whose widow grandmother Alma Bancroft, along with her two daughters Edna and Jane moved to in 1940, in those rented. Jane moved to Coventry in 1942 and met Paul’s father, Edna stayed in the home after Alma’s passing in 1950 and eventually purchased the home for a few hundred pounds as a sitting tenant in 1965, Edna never married and generously left Paul and his family the house in 2009.

Paul has been visiting Hebden Bridge since the 1950’s and his family decided to keep the home as a family vacation spot in their beloved Hebden Bridge, a place that holds many cherished memories for Paul’s family. The home was upgraded and with new plumbing / new electrical wiring, new heating system and kitchen extension. Initially the home was intended as vacation home but extended family, friends and local neighbours who had family to visit approached Paul to rent them the home.

Over the years the home has been promoted on

several short term holiday let platforms. Based on the ever increasing success Paul along with family members purchased a second home just 3 doors away in the same terraces of homes. The home was totally remodeled and upgraded to a high standard based on the experience of the initial property.

The homes have been upgraded using the service of Alison Grant a highly regarded local architect and R Waring a Hebden Bridge building contractor both located in the community.

Both homes were rented for costume changes , makeup, and a spot to enjoy a brew and biscuit by the cast and crew.

The attached photograph which has been widely reproduced, even by the BBC, was taken by the “Calderdale Terraces Concierge” and “housekeeper extraordinaire” Joanne Gibson, who maintains the homes to a very high standard and ensure all house rules are followed using good old “North Country Tact” and withering stares … as in her role in Happy Valley .. Joanne was featured in the scene in earlier series when Tommy Lee tells his son that he is his father, Joanne was the assistant in the door of Oasis store who gave the Oscar performing scary glare, which her husband Mark and her 4 adult children assure me has been perfected over many years !!!

The best parks in Yorkshire to visit with the family

Make the most of the warm weather this summer and head off on an outdoor adventure with the family.

Ideal for picnics, nature walks and soaking up some sun, these parks and gardens around Yorkshire offer a scenic spot to relax and unwind.

Bolton Abbey Estate

Combine sightseeing with outdoor adventures at Oakwell Hall and Country Park, where you can take a tour of the bautiful Elizabethan manor house, which offers an intriguing insight into the late 17th century, before heading off to explore the 110 acres of country park which surround it.

The vast estate is home to a network of footpaths and nature trails, where you can expect to find glorious scenery, flowers and wildlife along the way.

Visit: Nova Lane, Birstall, Batley, WF17 9LG – www.kirklees.gov.uk

Manor Heath Park

This nineteen acre park in Halfax is perfect for an active day outdoors, thanks to its many exciting on-site attractions.

the riverside provide a wonderful spot for a picnic.

Visit: Fountains Abbey And Studley Royal Estate, Ripon, HG4 3DY – www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Roundhay Park

A firm favourite spot to soak up some sun in Leeds, Roundhay Park stretches across 700 acres of pretty parkland, lakes and woodland, providing a picture-perfect location for leisurely picnic.

Youngsters are well catered for with two playgrounds on site, along with the popular Tropical World visitor attraction where a variety of exotic animals and plants can be seen.

of glorious landscape, with lakes, fountains, woodland, temples, rolling lawns, an ornamental garden and a children’s playround just a few of the delights which await to be explored in the grounds.

Visit: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA –www.castlehoward.co.uk

Greenhead Park

Nestled just half a mile from Huddersfield town centre, Greenfield Park is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle, and enjoy some time outdoors.

The vast Cistercian ruins of Fountains Abbey provide an impressive backdrop for a picnic

Visitors will be spoilt for choice with things to do at the popular Bolton Abbey Estate in Wharfedale.

Put your balance to the test crossing the 60 stepping stones, take a walk to see the Strid in the ancient woodland, enjoy the scenery along the nature trails, or nestle down on the lawns in front of the magnificent 12th century ruins.

Visit: Bolton Abbey, Skipton, BD23 6AL –www.boltonabbey.com

Golden Acre Park

Golden Acre Park in north Leeds is popular for its circular lakeside walk and pretty gardens

Hugely popular for its pretty gardens and circular lakeside walk, this north Leeds park stretches across 55 hectares, providing plenty of space to bask in the sunny weather. There’s a huge amount of space to set up a picnic, or you can head to the on-site cafe if you’d prefer.

Visit: Arthington Road, Bramhope, Leeds, LS16 8BQ – www.leeds.gov.uk

Oakwell Hall and Country Park

The vast Oakwell Hall estate stretches across 110 acres with a network of footpaths and nature trails for visitors to explore

Alongside woodland walks, a walled garden and wild flower area, children will love playing in the water park and sand pit, or spotting an array of exotic plants and creatures at The Jungle Experience, the park’s tropical on-site greenhouse.

There’s also plenty of spots to set up a picnic and if you’re feeling energetic, there is an outdoor gym where you can work up a sweat.

Visit: Halifax, HX3 0EB – www.visitcalderdale.com

Valley Gardens

These English Heritage grade II listed gardens in Harroage spread across 17 acres and feature an array of different areas giving visitors plenty to explore.

Have fun in the playground, skate park, boating pool and games areas, which include tennis, pitch and putt and crazy golf, take a dip in the paddling pool, or simply take some time out to wander the footpaths through the gardens.

Visit: Valley Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2SZ –www.harrogate.gov.uk

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

If you’re looking for a park that is a little more out of the ordinary, Yorkshire Sculpture Park won’t disappoint.

The magnificent open air gallery is home to around 80 sculptures and installations, offering a more unqiue way to appreciate some contemporary art by some of the world’s finest artists.

Visit: West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG –www.ysp.org.uk

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Tucked away in a secluded valley, visitors are guaranteed to be impressed by the vast Cistercian abbey ruins and Georgian water farden at this National Trust site in Ripon.

A medieval deer park, Elizabethan Hall and Gothic church are also on site to see, while the vast green lawns which lead down to

Visit: Mansion Lane, Leeds, LS8 2HH –www.roundhaypark.org.uk

Castle Howard

This stunning 18th century historic house just outside of York stands within 1,000 acres

Home to a skate park, tennis courts, play areas, paddling pool and ornamental lake, as well as a miniature steam railway, there’s a great variety of attractions to keep the whole family entertained.

And visitors can even enjoy horse and carriage rides on weekends.

Visit: Trinity Street, Huddersfield, HD1 4DT – www.kirklees.gov.uk

TOP 5 CASTLES TO VISIT IN NORTH WALES

There are over 600 castles in Wales and it is said to have more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Here are the top 5 castles to visit in North Wales:

CAERNARFON CASTLE

Built in the 1280 by Edward I, Caernarfon is the largest castle in the area and does not disappoint. Having included all the mod cons for its day like toilets, running water and glass in the windows, this vast building is spectatuclar. A brute of a fortress. Caernarfon Castle’s pumped-up appearance is unashamedly muscle-bound

and intimidating. Picking a fight with this massive structure would have been a daunting prospect. By throwing his weight around in stone, King Edward I created what is surely one of the most impressive of Wales’s castles. Worthy of World Heritage status no less. Most castles are happy with round towers, not Caernarfon! Polygonal towers were the order of the day, with the Eagle Tower being the most impressive of these. You will also note the colour-coded stones carefully arranged in bands. The site of this great castle wasn’t chosen by accident.

It had previously been the location of a Norman motte and bailey castle and before that a Roman fort stood nearby. The lure of water

and easy access to the sea made the banks of the River Seiont an ideal spot for Edward’s monster in masonry. Edward wasn’t one to miss an opportunity to tighten his grip even further on the native population. The birth of his son, the first English Prince of Wales, in the castle in 1284, was a perfect device to stamp his supremacy. In 1969, the investiture of the current Prince of Wales, HRH Prince Charles took place here. Whilst you’re visiting this formidable fortress, don’t miss the opportunity to see the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, which is housed in two of the castle’s towers.

CONWY CASTLE

Conwy Castle entrance is truly impressive with two fortified gateways and made up of eight enormous towers. The great hall, private chambers and kitchen can still be seen on visiting which gives you a real sense of what it would have been like back in the day. Built for Edward I, by Master

James of St George, the castle is amongst the finest surviving medieval fortifications in Britain. In a word, exceptional. You can’t fault it, from the grandeur of its high towers and curtain walls to its excellent state of preservation. An estimated £15,000 was spent building the castle, the largest sum Edward spent in such a short time on any of his Welsh castles between 1277 and 1307. Money well spent. Two barbicans (fortified gateways), eight massive

towers and a great bowshaped hall all sit within its distinctive elongated shape, due in part to the narrow rocky outcrop on which the castle stands. You won’t find Edward’s concentric ‘walls within walls’ here. They weren’t needed. The rock base was enough security in itself. Some say it is the most magnificent of Edward I’s Welsh fortresses. To get the full picture, head for the battlements. Breathtaking views across mountains and

sea. If the outside impresses (and it will), wait until you go in. With an outer ward containing a great hall, chambers and kitchen, and a more secluded inner ward with private chambers and a royal chapel, it is very easy to imagine how Conwy functioned when the royal entourage were in town.

HARLECH CASTLE

Harlech castle is built on what is said to be the oldest rock in the world. It was impenatrable in its day due to its location.

Wonderwool Wales 2023

Thousands of visitors to Wonderwool Wales next weekend, April 22-23 will have a chance to see a new, short documentary, which reveals the forgotten potential of wool in textiles and the industry’s urgent need for sustainable solutions.

The work of four students from the University of West England in Bristol, Forgotten Fibre delves into the applications of wool in the textile industry and its sustainable uses, as an alternative to synthetics made from plastics.

The students will be attending Wonderwool Wales, the award-winning show that celebrates all that’s great about Welsh wool and natural fibres, at Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells to promote their documentary, made as part of their course.

“During the making of the documentary, we discovered that wool is a renewable and biodegradable material, composed of atmospheric carbon,” said Tristan Sherfield, who directed and produced the 10-minute film which

he describes as traditionally British with a folk music soundtrack.

Tristan says he and fellow students Alex Stevenson, Robert Loud and Maurice Wren were keen to discover why wool has gone from being such a crucial part of our lives to something almost entirely forgotten.

They filmed with Andy Wear and Jen Hunter, who focus on a holistic and regenerative way of farming at Fernhill Farm, Bristol, Marina Skua, a yarn dyer and hand-knit designer based in Wiltshire and David Wilkins at Rampishamhill Mill at Beaminster, Dorset.

“So, was the answer right there in front of us all along, in the form of wool?”

Jen Hunter believes so. In the documentary, she says: “Wool is right here under our noses and we are not using it.”

Forgotten Fibre can be followed on Facebook, Instagram and Linktree at https:// linktr.ee/forgottenfibredoc .

The documentary is per-

fectly suited to Wonderwool Wales, the annual festival that brings together people and businesses with a passion for Welsh wool and its versatility as a material for creative crafts, designer clothes, home furnishings and more.

The weekend event, which has more than 230 exhibitors this year, covers everything from the start to the end of the creative process. Exhibits of sheep, raw and hand dyed fibres, yarn for knitting and crochet, embellishments, equipment, dyes and books can be found alongside superb examples of finished textile art, craft, clothing and home furnishings.

Wonderwool Wales tickets, costing £12 per day or £22 for the weekend, may be purchased online in advance at www.wonderwoolwales. co.uk or at the gate. For more information, visit www. wonderwoolwales.co.uk , like Wonderwool Wales Ltd on Facebook or follow on Twitter @wonderwoolwales .

Nurse and granddaughter’s book goes national to challenge nursing stereotypes

A book written by a Nottinghamshire schoolgirl and her grandma – a nurse – is to be distributed to children across England as part of an initiative to promote nursing and midwifery as a career.

Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippity Hop! aims to better reflect the diverse and varied roles that make up a nursing team in today’s health and social care. It demonstrates the versatility, broad scope, and endless opportunities that lie within a career of nursing and midwifery.

Written by Louise Kirk and granddaughter Ella Sharpe, Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippity Hop! was hatched in a “hackathon” in 2019 organised by Lucy Gillespie, former Project Development Lead at NUH’s Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, as part of a Nursing Now Challenge.

Growing the NHS nursing workforce is a national priority, with potential for careers in roles that take in science, technology and innovation, leadership, management, and collaboration. NHS England also recognises that its workforce needs to reflect the diversity of the population it serves.

Ask most young people what a nurse does and they will have an idea; most will not realise the variety of roles available, or the flexibility and opportunities for career progression that nursing allows.

“Most children’s books depict a nurse as a doctor’s helper and not the strong, diverse profession that we are,” said Dr Louise Bramley, Assistant Director of Nursing at Nottingham University Hospitals

(NUH) NHS Trust.

The NHS NextGen Nurse programme aims to address these gaps and/or misconceptions by providing educators with a selection of easy and accessible options for free online work experiences that can expand students’ knowledge and understanding of careers in nursing.

As part of the Hackathon, an expert panel, including children’s author Jonathan Emmett, children and nurses, chose Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippity Hop! from 11 strong submissions.

The NUH team then worked with Dr Sarah McConnell, course leader in MA Illustration at Nottingham Trent University, to draw up a creative brief.

Sarah added: “The idea of a brief celebrating the essential and amazing work done by nurses was something we really wanted to be part of. It turned out that we would be working together through the pandemic, an incredibly challenging period for all of us but in particular for the NHS. There couldn't be a better time to celebrate the important work that nurses do.

“The project was a natural fit for our MA illustrators and BA graphic designers. We were so excited when the Institute approached us.

Louise, Lucy and Louise were fantastic to work with; they were open to our ideas and together we created the brief that would capture what the book was about.”

The students had to creatively interpret the brief –and Elizabeth Haynes’ design wowed the judging panel.

Jonathan Emmett said: “I was lucky enough to read an early draft of Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippitty Hop! and I’m delighted to see that it is now a finished book.

“Every day hundreds of thousands of nurses do invaluable work across the NHS. It’s great to see them being celebrated in this book and I hope Ella’s story will inspire many young readers to pursue a career in nursing.”

The team from NUH went to NTU to judge the entries, choosing Elizabeth’s concept from a really strong field.

“Elizabeth’s design was a visual feast that depicted

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Everyday People

It’s crucial we talk about our mental health and what’s happening to us. A series of changes have had a major impact on our day to day lives.

The Covid-19 tsunami struck us with an impending sense of disconnectedness. The war in Ukraine rocked our sense of Europe being a peaceful and conflict-free place to live. Our way of life is under increasing scrutiny as we face the fact that Earth has finite resources that we are destroying. These events have had - and are havingsevere and far-reaching repercussions for our mental wellbeing, living in a continuous state of uncertainty and change.

Many of us were engulfed in a depression that left us feeling hopeless, with doubt, distress, and anxiety about the future. A state of constant impermanence and flux has led to a greater questioning of who we are and what is our place.

It’s our common humanity, a willingness to help each other and respect each other’s

lives that will help us through these challenging times. Our strength is our ability to connect and form positive relationships with one another as we move through these difficult periods.

I’m interested in what we can learn about ourselves and each other. We can use this knowledge to help each other deal with the many changes we face.

The therapeutic relationship is the doorway to connect and reconnect us to the essence of humanity. It encourages us to explore, understand, connect with, and heal even the deepest and darkest parts of ourselves. It guides us into unconditional self-acceptance and self-love.

These principles motivated my decision to embark on a career in counselling. In sessions, you are welcomed into a space free of judgement and criticism. I am simply there with you, supporting and celebrating your journey.

a wonderful cast of animal characters using bright, bold colours,” said Sarah. “She received tutorship and industry advice from publishers to help make her book professional and contemporary – she is a talented illustrator and her work was a clear winner.”

Elizabeth, now studying a Masters in Illustration at NTU, said: “This project was my favourite final-year university project – I really enjoyed the whole process.”

Ella was nine when she wrote the story and is now 13 and in secondary school.

She said: “I hope children enjoy reading Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippity Hop! as much as my Nanna and I had creating it. My little brother, Jaxon, who’s seven, has really enjoyed reading it and given the thumbs up!”

Louise is Lead Nurse for Education and Practice Development and couldn’t be prouder of Ella.

She said: “Ella and I

worked closely together to develop the story. Ella created the park location, including eating ice cream and some of the narratives.

We had a lot of fun creating the story and hope children will enjoy reading it. We are delighted to finally see the printed version after many delays.

“Ella’s Grandpa goes Hippity Hop is a story about Ella not being sure what she would like to be when she grows up. After Grandpa’s accident, Ella meets lots of nurses in different roles, and is amazed at how many different types of nurses there are. As a result, Ella decides she’d like to be a nurse like Robin, who took good care of Grandpa.

“I hope that when parents/ grandchildren/siblings read this book, it inspires young minds to think about nursing as a career.”

The publication of the book has been supported by NHS England’s NextGen Nurse Programme.

Paul Vaughan, Deputy Director, Primary Care Nursing and Next-

Gen Nurse, said: “This is a wonderful resource for nurse ambassadors to use when going into schools to encourage young people to take up a career in nursing.”

Michelle Rhodes, Chief Nurse at NUH, said: “It’s fantastic to see Louise and Ella’s story brought to life by Elizabeth’s illustrations, and it’s great that chief nurses across England will be sending out copies of the book to care settings and schools.

“Nursing as a profession has come a long way. Modern nurses have the kind of autonomy in their role that would have been unrecognisable in the 1950s, constantly making decisions, gathering data, making medical assessments and prescribing drugs. This has changed the profile of nursing – there is a huge range of different roles nowadays and hopefully reading this book will plant a seed in someone’s mind about becoming a nurse in the future.

“I knew from a very early age I wanted to be a nurse and that was because my

mum was a paediatric nurse and she was my absolute hero.” Michelle added.

“I used to go to meet her from work with my dad

and if she was working at Christmas we would go to the children’s ward and wrap presents and help decorate the tree. It was very special

for me and from that point I knew it was what I would do and I have never regretted it – being a nurse is an absolute privilege.”

P.E.C.S. FITNESS Going from Strength to Strength

Here at P.E.C.S. we have been open since January2017, offering a range of facilities from free weights, pin loaded machines, plate loaded machines and fitness classes. Our ethos is to help the community to realise the benefits of a healthy exercise and nutritional lifestyle. We have not stood still in these seven years of business, we have survived covid and expanded twice since opening. We have future developments to make this a very exciting time to be a member.

We are continually striving to introduce new concepts and classes.

The gym is co-owned by Stephen Edwards and Tracy Kidsley. Stephen has been in the fitness industry for over forty years and brings a wealth of experience. Tracy has been in the industry for seven years and is currently exploring the impact of peripost menopause fitness ben-

efits. They are both local to the surrounding area and offer personal training sessions at very competitive prices. One of our main target groups at PECS Fitness is the growing Diabetic population in today’s society. Stephen Edwards co – owner was diagnosed 33 years ago and has first-hand knowledge and understanding of diabetes. Now at the age of 60 he manages the condition through his own specialist diabetic program of exercise and low carb diet. Adapting training techniques with his own substantial training experience to pass on knowledge to members at P.E.C.S. Fitness (Prevention Exercise Cure Solutions) Gibb Street, Long Eaton, NG10 1EE. We at P.E.C.S. insist that the exercises do not need to be complex or complicated. The first is just to be more active by moving more. You can incorporate an exercise routine

using a chair if mobility is an issue. Basic bodyweight exercises and resistant bands can be used to progress to a more active stage.

What is Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is the result of the body losing the ability to control its sugar levels properly. The level of sugar is critical, to high and it can cause damage to the body. Control of sugar levels is the job of a very important hormone called insulin which is produced by the pancreas.

Insulin sends the sugar to cells in the muscles, liver or converts it to fat for storage. When someone is type 2 diabetic those cells have become resistant to insulin therefore sugar levels remain elevated and dangerous. Factors such as ethnicity, high levels of stress, a diet high in processed foods and refined sugars, very sedentary lives all increase the chances of becoming type 2 diabetic. What is important to be aware of is that type 2 diabetes can be effectively managed and even reversed. Making dietary changes such as reducing consumption of processed foods and refined sugars, increasing daily activity and managing stress effectively can help the body to become more insulin sensitive again which lowers sugar to healthier less damaging levels. Over time medications can be reduced or even stopped and the person classed as non type 2 diabetic.

A Few Words From Dawn

After Christmas we are all likely to feel overweight and not happy about ourselves. Our skin may look dehydrated due to the alcohol intake over the festive period. The answer to getting our skin to bloom again is Micro needling which stimulates our skin’s natural collagen, reduces fine lines, and will also flatten white raised scars. The treatment involves tapping a fine needle into the skin with a fast, repetitive motion, using either a single needle or a Dema-roller (a multi-needle device)

The procedure can also used for Crow’s Feet (around the eyes), naso-mentalis lines (either side of the mouth) and stretch-marks on the body.

If you would like to know more about this or any other treatment - Microblading, Medical or Cosmetic Tattooing (permanent

makeup), hair removal by Electrolysis, make-up lessons - please contact Dawn Cragg MBE by telephone 01777 860 500, or email dawn_cragg@hotmail.co.uk. Dawn has a private clinic in Retford.

Rain shower doesn’t deter Haddon Primary & Nursery School from honouring the memory of beloved T.A in fundraiser

Staff and children at Haddon Primary & Nursery School have been raising money throughout March for Cancer Research UK, with staff completing 10,000 steps each day for the whole month.

Nina Capek is Head Teacher at the school in Carlton and she said, “We were motivated to raise the money for Cancer Research UK in memory of our beloved Teaching Assistant, Mrs Annette Sheldon, who tragically passed away earlier this year. Mrs Sheldon is missed daily, and her memory lives strong with both staff and children, -so we decided to tackle the 10,000 steps a day challenge in her memory.

“The Haddon school community, as is always the case when we need support, has thrown themselves behind the fundraising effort. Our total raised so far, is an astonishing £1139 plus gift aid! I’d like to thank everyone that has shown their support and donated via our fundraising link.” During the month, children have voluntarily joined staff during break and lunchtimes to support their teachers to complete their daily steps, culminating in 200 children joining the walk on Friday 24th March- albeit during a rain shower.

Pupil Holly age 8 said, “One of our teachers passed away and so we wanted to do this for her. She was a very nice lady and she taught me about using a colour wheel once. She was a brilliant artist too.” Fellow pupil Megan, age 8 years, said the rain wasn’t going to stop children joining the final walk, “We wanted to help to raise money for Cancer Research for Mrs Sheldon. It was amazing how she taught all of the children at Haddon, and she taught me all about primary colours. She painted an amazing mural in school, and she loved art. The lovely Mrs Sheldon was always there for all of us, and so even though we didn’t have to go in the rain, -none of the children minded because we loved Mrs Sheldon so much.”

Lucy Bloor is a Foundation Stage 2 Teacher and she said “We talk about Mrs Sheldon all of the time and we have her amazing mural in our foundation stage classroom. I do honestly think that Mrs Sheldon would have giggled at us all being in the rain, -and sending us a rainbow too!”

At the end of school walk, the rain did stop, and a rainbow appeared, pleasing the school children. Mrs Sandy Wilson is a Teaching Assistant at the school, and she said, “All of the staff and children alike wanted to do this for Mrs Sheldon. Since the 1st March, all staff have been doing 10,000 steps a day, and we have done it despite the weather, happily trudging through the snow we had earlier this month. Everyone wanted to support this effort, because Mrs Sheldon meant so much to the school, and to generations of Haddon children.”

The link to the school’s fundraising page for those wishing to donate is: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/team/haddoners

Planning For Your Wedding Day 2023

As couples plan for their big day for 2023 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!

SHOULD WE HAVE A WEDDING CONTINGENCY

Without devising and sticking to a realistic budget, many couples struggle to finance the wedding day of their dreams. Buying all the bits and bobs that make a wedding just as fabulous as you are, adds up. Preparing your finances with a contingency fund is recommended, but where do you start when setting aside this essential cash reserve?

We explore below.

What are the benefits of having a contingency?

A quick online search will reveal the long list of products and services a couple needs to call upon for their wedding day.

Being aware of the wedding costs that could creep up when you least expect them will ensure you are as well prepared as you can be when planning the best day of your life. Hidden costs come in all shapes and sizes; from the stamps needed to send your save-the-dates and invitations, to those last-minute beauty treatments. Your contingency fund is there should you encounter these unexpected

expenses. Work out how much you can afford to spend in total, make a list of everything you need to sort then decide how you will divide your wedding budget.

Try to make your list as detailed as possible, and ensure that you set aside enough for each item. Recently married friends, wedding magazines and websites are all good sources of advice. How much should we set aside?

Most suggest a contingency of between 12.5 and 15% of the overall wedding cost. The average wedding in the UK now costs £30,355, which means a minimum contingency of £3,794. This is a significant amount to

set aside.

We’d recommend saving as much extra money as you can and earmarking this as your contingency fund.

Whatever you can put aside as a contingency fund, if you don’t use it, it’s extra money towards enjoying your honeymoon – or building your first home together.

How can we start building a contingency fund?

Even couples with a comfortable budget should consider building a contingency.

If you can’t save any extra money by cutting back on your monthly outgoings, as many couples planning weddings cannot – saving your savings is an ideal way to boost your wedding budget and build a contingency fund. For every little discount you receive on a wedding-related service or product, put the amount you saved straight into a savings account. With some hard bargaining, you’ll find you’ll quickly accumulate a sizeable sum.

Away The Lads !!!

With February now out of the way and a poor month behind us we entered March looking at the league table and wondering how we were going to move forward. Our thoughts were that we would now be striving for the playoff positions at the wrong end of the table and that this is how we should approach the remainder of the season. As we were sitting second from bottom in the division and with a gap in points now forming from the teams just above us our situation was worsening. The team at the bottom of the league Tadcaster were also starting to pick up points in their bid for survival and were now looking at overhauling us in their quest for some dignity from the season as our woes were continuing. But as we know the beautiful game as frustrating that it might be at times can change perspectives and outlooks in an instance and suddenly things that don’t look so bright start to shine.

Carlton Town 1-2 North Shields

The opening fixture of the month saw North Shields pay a visit to Stoke Lane. The Millers produced a good solid first half performance to take the advantage into half-time with a goal from Dean Freeman three minutes before the interval against a side that were now playing with ten men. We were now in a similar position to the week before where we had a man advantage on the field but a goal in front. The break came at the wrong time for The Millers as the opposition came out for the second half with even more desire and intensity as they strove to turn the situation around. Their work rate increased, they had more purpose and worked harder than Carlton and were rewarded with an equaliser ten minutes into the half. This approach continued for the remainder of the game and for the most The Millers were holding on as there was no let up as we sat deep to defend our position. With only two minutes remaining our concerns were confirmed as the visitors would score again to deflate us and take the points back up north.

Hebburn Town 0-2 Carlton Town

Three days later and it was our turn to take the road to the north and to a team that were sitting second in the table. This fixture had

already been cancelled three times previously for various reasons and we were still being forced by the league to play it in mid-week. With nothing to lose and a fixture that we knew was going to be very tough we went about our task as we usually do. Our hunger was evident as we took the game to the opposition from the first whistle and with the now returning Alex Troke to the club adding some physicality to the team we were more than holding our own. Ten minutes before the end of the half our efforts would be rewarded when Alex Howes would fire a shot through a crowd of players in the box and see the ball nestle in the back of the net to take us into the break with a well deserved lead. We would enter the second half the same as we did the first one with our confidence brimming as we looked to further gain the advantage. The hosts were unable to break our resolve and our football was good and a further ten minutes later our rewards became evident as Niall Davie picked the ball up in our half. He glided between two Hebburn players, beat a third in their half as he went on a run and then cut across two others on the edge of the oppositions box before firing a deft shot past the keeper and into the net. With having possibly seen our goal of the season we continued to nip away at the home side for the remainder of the half and although we wouldn’t add to the scoreline we would finish the game as the very worthy winners.

Grantham Town 0-1 Carlton Town

A week later and another evening kick-off where we would travel up the road to Grantham as we looked to try and gain back-toback victories. The hosts started the brighter and the contest up until the break would be a fairly even affair as both sides sitting next to each other in the table didn’t want to slip up. The Millers came out for the second half still well in the game knowing that if we could nick a goal that we would be comfortable until the end. As the half progressed we couldn’t find the end product as many an effort on goal would be thwarted and with time running out we were going to have to be content with an away point. This was until Lewis Durow received the ball on the left side of the pitch and advanced towards the edge of the host’s box. He fired over a curling cross where Nat Watson at the far post would power home a header in injury time and leave the home side flattened and our fans ecstatic.

Cleethorpes Town 2-3 Carlton Town

Another away day beckoned and a trip to the coast to opposition that were not exactly in the form of their life but were looking to get into the play-offs for promotion. With two successes behind us on the road and

our precarious league status now looking a little brighter we went into this one with high hopes. Again we pressed from the start and didn’t look like a team that were at the wrong end of the table. An Alex Troke penalty would take us into the break with the lead before the home side would equalise just after to level it up. Five minutes on and an audacious lob from Alex Howes would regain the advantage as the game was starting to become a real spectacle. The home side would level affairs fifteen minutes later before new recruit Charlie Marzano would finalise the scoring in a fixture where the home side would always be chasing the scoreline and where The Millers would continue at times to produce some nice ball play.

Ossett United 1-2 Carlton Town

With our confidence as high as it had ever been all season we would travel north again to West Yorkshire in mid-week to try and add to our previous results. From the off we would attack the opposition with desire and passion to put this one to bed early and we would be rewarded after only ten minutes when Niall Davie would give us the edge. Our guile and confidence continued for the remainder of the half and but for the efforts of the home goalkeeper whom on more than one occasion stopped us in our tracks we could have taken the scoreline to four. The home side hit the second half running slightly better than we did as they knew what their task ahead was and within fifteen minutes their centre -half would even things up with a looping header from the edge of the box. The game from here then became a more even affair as both sides went looking for what was now becoming that elusive winner and with five minutes to go our endeavours were rewarded. Aaron O’Connor would arrive at the far post and slot home to give us four victories back-to-back on away soil for the first time in many a season.

It was back to the Lane for our next fixture and a chance to avenge our result back in November against the team whom at the time were then top of the league. With our current form the best we have seen all season we were more than confident of achieving the victory. Oh how we were brought down to earth after our recent successes, the visitors constantly knocked at our door invoking old habits to come back into our play and midway through the first half would lead the game from the penalty spot. Despite our efforts and the away side’s strategy we were unable to enact our game plan throughout, and on what can only be described as a frustrating day the visitors would put the game to bed with a last-minute execution.

We now hit the final month of the season and with only a handful of fixtures left our plight is firmly in our own hands. Our home form has not been what we would have liked it to be all season but our away form in recent weeks has surpassed anything that we could have expected. All our remaining fixtures now become six-pointers as any team from tenth place in the league could still be in the mix on the final day of the season.

Carlton Town 0-2 Stockton Town

CLARKE: SQUAD REUNIONS, 2023 AMBITIONS & NEW ADDITIONS

Just as the first of the Green and Golds’ pre-season blocks was revving into action in November, Joe Clarke was jetting off for the first of three winter assignments.

A second season donning the green of Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League was sandwiched between two trips to the UAE, for the T10 with Bangla Tigers and the inaugural ILT20 with Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

The life of the globtrotting cricketer is such that he has only recently returned to English shores.

“It always brings a smile to your face when you see the likes of Fletch or Ben Slater,” said Clarke.

“To see the boys after spending a bit of time

away, you can tell they have been putting in the hard yards and it’s great to be back with them.”

The franchise world gives players, such as Clarke, access to a variety of world-class environments and coaches, including former Trent Bridge icon David Hussey at the Stars. However, with Clarke spending the majority of the summer months on the banks of the River Trent, there’s one person in particular who will always be at the end of phone, regardless of where in the world he is.

“Pete is always at the other end of the phone when I need him,” said Clarke of Head Coach Moores.

“He’ll check in and have a catch up every other couple of weeks or so if he notices anything in my game that seems different, and I’ll do the same if I want some advice.

“All the coaches are busy making sure the boys are put through their paces and putting in the hard work.

“But they’ve got one eye on the lads around the world playing in all of these competitions and they’ve been brilliant with me.

A winter of white-ball cricket now gives way to a flurry of First-Class fixtures, but the change of format is no longer a daunting one for the Outlaws dasher.

“Making the transition (back to red-ball cricket) has become easier over the years,” added Clarke.

“In the past I was quite hard on myself because I would come back and expect myself to fall straight back into the groove of facing the red ball, and that wasn’t the case.

“This year, my first two weeks back have been better than they have been before.

“To be back working with Pete, Ant (Botha,

Assistant Coach) and all the coaching staff, and facing the boys in the nets, has been great fun.”

When Clarke joined the club ahead of the 2019 season, a summer of Division One cricket awaited.

A poor run of results on the field, plus the disruption of the pandemic on the county cricket calendar, means 2023 marks just a second season in the top tier of the domestic game since the 26-year-old made the move to the East Midlands.

For Clarke, team success comes streets ahead of personal milestones.

“I have individual goals but I’m not going to give them away,” he said.

“Ultimately, I just want to contribute to winning games for Nottinghamshire in Division One.

“In 2021 we were playing a lot of Division One clubs and we showed how good we were.

“We beat a lot of them and I think we’re ready to be up there, challenging for trophies

and up at the top end of the division.”

With the Nottinghamshire squad going through a period of stability, Clarke has felt a sense of familiarity as he has returned to the marquee at Lady Bay.

But as the club target an assault on three competitions, he earmarked Olly Stone and Colin Munro as key signings.

“I’m far happier to have Olly playing for us so I don’t have to face him anymore,” he said.

“He has pure pace, and his T20 skills in particular have really come on over the past couple of years.

“And with his experience playing white-ball cricket for England, he’ll be a great addition for us.

“Colin Munro has a wealth of experience.

“I’ve played with him on the franchise circuit and he’ll offer a lot to our batting group.

“He plays in the style that we like and I’m sure he’ll fit right in.”