Nottingham Now Issue 2

Issue. 2 - August 2018 0115 6972670 | www.nottingham-now.co.uk | sales@nottingham-now.co.uk

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Youngsters help

decorate old police station

Nottinghamshire Police would like to thank Rushcliffe Positive Futures for their work within the Brilliant Bingham project.

Local youngsters showed off their talent during the hot weather and spray painted the hoardings around the old police station in Grantham Road, Bingham.

We invited the seven young artists to come up with a concept that could be used to decorate the hoarding.

The group did some researched on Bingham and learnt about the growth of the community, before linking in with Rushcliffe Borough Council who informed them of the “Brilliant Bingham” project. They then worked with James, a local artist, who helped them come up with some concepts. The painting then took them two days to complete.

Neighbourhood Inspector Craig Berry said: “The artwork is fantastic; the young people have done a great job and they should be proud of themselves. I’m so glad that we had the space to be able to incorporate their artistic visions to help make Bingham look brilliant.”

Mark Clifford, Community Projects Manager – Positive Futures said: “It was great to see the young people engaged in the project, it was tough at times due to the heat but they persevered and the finish speaks for itself.

“It was also great to see so many members of the public taking an interest in what they were doing either when passing by or on social media and the vast majority have stated that it has improved the boarding.

Bingham is Brilliant!”

“It’s fabulous to see these young people getting involved in the local community and the artwork they have created is brilliant.” said Cllr Debbie Mason, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community and Leisure at Rushcliffe Borough Council.

Inside this issue: Care - Weddings - what’s on

Sun shines a light on Nottinghamshire’s past

Nottinghamshire County Council’s Heritage team is appealing to people taking to the skies to share aerial images of local landscapes to shine a light on the area’s past.

The combination of dry weather and ripening crops has meant that buried features, such as wall foundations and ditches, show up in fields as cropmarks.

Cropmarks and parchmarks form best when there is a long spell of dry weather, while buried features, such as walls or ditches, create different conditions for the plants growing above them.

Crops growing over a buried wall will have less soil, so will grow shorter and ripen more quickly. Crops growing over buried ditches will have deeper and wetter soil, allowing them to grow taller and ripen more slowly. The result is lines and dots of different colours within a field which are best seen from the air.

Locally, the conditions have meant the former house at Clumber Park has shown up as parchmarks in the grass.

The outline is so clear that it can be matched to old plans of the building and for a brief moment visitors can imagine themselves walking around

the long-destroyed house. At Rufford Abbey similar parchmarks have revealed not only foundations of the grand house, but of the Medieval abbey it was built upon.

Councillor John Cottee, Chairman of Communities and Place Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The last time there were conditions like this was 1976 and it took the archaeological community over a decade to sift through and study all the new sites that were discovered.

The current conditions mean we have the same opportunity to expand our knowledge.

“We want to appeal to anyone who spends time up in the skies during this hot spell to consider taking a camera with them and share any images with us. Similarly, if you have drone footage and think you might have spotted something unusual, please let us know – although, remember there are specific regulations about what you can do with a drone.

“The more we know about the archaeology and heritage of the county, the better placed we are to help to research, interpret and protect it.

And you might be the first person to see an archaeological site for centuries!” The County Council holds a database of archaeology, called the Historic Environment Record, and any new sites will be added to that database.

If you have photos of cropmarks you would like us to take a look at please get in touch with us at heritage@nottscc. gov.uk

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Lark in the Park just days away!

The ever popular Lark in the Park, sponsored by Hollies Day Nurseries, is just days away and is set to feature over 80 fun filled stalls and attractions.

This year marks the event’s 30th anniversary and organisers are encouraging visitors to ‘Go Green in 2018’ with a variety of environmental themed workshops and displays in Bridgford Park on Wednesday August 1 from 10am to 4pm.

There will also be free shows and classes, charity and community stands, have-a-go sessions with local sports clubs plus fairground rides and inflatables.

Deputy Leader of the Council Cllr Debbie Mason said: “The theme of this year’s event is very fitting to our current review of reducing single use plastics.

“It’s really important that we teach the next generation the importance of looking after our environment.

“Come along to Bridgford Park in West Bridgford to enjoy all the family friendly activities, as well as learning more about environmental issues.”

Around the park there will be junk arts and crafts, storytelling and forest school activities, a free mini Bikeability zone led by Via EM and Nottinghamshire County Council.

Also on offer is waste and recycling information, single use plastic reduction tips and the chance to explore one of Rushcliffe Borough Council's brand new refuse vehicles.

There will be over 80 local community groups and businesses showcasing their work including Notts Police, Notts Fire and Rescue Service, National Ice Centre, Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and Nottingham Rugby Club.

Lark in the Park 2018 is organised by Rushcliffe Borough Council in association with Hollies Day Nurseries www.holliesdaynurseries.co.uk Slater and Brandley www.slaterandbrandley.co.uk and The Botanist www.thebotanist.uk.com

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Call for young musical

talent to trial music studio A young people’s centre is appealing for more teenagers to come forward to take advantage of its music studio equipment.

The West Bridgford Young People’s Centre, in Bridgford Road, West Bridgford, has industry standard equipment, and is helping some of the musicians of tomorrow to make music there. Equipment at the young people’s centre includes a recording studio, a performance room and a vocal studio, with drumkits,three base amps and state-of-the-art computers.

Some local bands are busy producing music from writing songs to recording them in the studio.

Lewis Hill, from Ruddington, and his four-piece band Kollider, have been in the studio recording music for a few weeks now. Lewis, the lead singer and guitarist, said: “We have been doing gigs such as at Rock City, and the equipment at the young people’s centre gives us the chance to record our own songs and to get demos of our work. It is very helpful to have such facilities almost on our doorstep.”

Stan Hewitt aged 13, when asked what he thinks about the facility said: "It is good! It’s really useful to have something so good and so local, only being five minutes from home. There are also friendly staff willing to work alongside the making of music and my development as an artist." The young people are under the watchful eye of music technician Tom Shawcroft.

Tom is on a work placement from the University of Derby where he is studying BA (Hons) Youth Work and was attracted to the opportunity to work with music and young people.

Tom said: “It’s all about making it fun and enjoyable. We have local bands and soloists in using the equipment, and we have the opportunity for others to come in and try using the facilities.” Councillor Tracey Taylor,

Vice-Chairman of the Children and Young People’s Committee, at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “We are proud of the facilities and expertise we have at the West Bridgford Young People’s Centre and

we hope it can inspire the next generation of musicians.”

Any young people interested in taking part are invited to call in to the Young People’s Centre on a Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday evening from 6.30pm to 9pm. Or should they wish to contact the Youth Worker in charge they can do by e-mailing: patrick.manning@nottscc.gov.uk

Council Leader welcomes Government's new-build broadband pledge The Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council has hailed a Government pledge to make it mandatory for all new homes to be fitted with full-fibre broadband. A year ago, Councillor Cutts called on district planning authorities in Nottinghamshire to insist all new homes are 'future proofed' with broadband access when considering applications for new developments. Her request came after a survey found that hundreds of new homes in the county, built in the last five years, had been constructed with no in-built provision.

Now the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) has announced that it is to bring in new legislation that will make it mandatory for developers to install full fibre connections when new homes are constructed. Full fibre technology will give those new homes ultrafast speeds of up to 330 Mbps – around ten times quicker than the current UK average.

The DCMS also committed to providing further public investment to improve broadband in rural areas as part of its wider review into the future of the UK's telecoms infrastructure.

Around £30 million has been invested in the county's digital infrastructure through the County Council-led Better Broadband for Nottinghamshire

(BBfN) scheme since 2014. But that has included providing broadband infrastructure to some new buildproperties because the opportunity was missed to install in-built provision during construction.

Councillor Cutts said: "I am absolutely delighted that the Government will now enshrine in law that all new homes must be given access to the fastest broadband speeds available - it is something that we have been campaigning on for some time.

Broadband is an essential service to a modern home, in the same way that water, gas and electricity are.

"I wrote to the district council planning authorities to ask if they would consider making fibre broadband connections to all new homes part of their planning conditions some time ago, so I am pleased to see that the Government is now making this mandatory.

"Thanks to our substantial investment in the county's digital infrastructure, Nottinghamshire enjoys some of the best overall broadband provision in the UK, with 98% of homes and businesses in our area set to have access to superfast speeds by the end of this year, compared to 95% nationally. With new legislation on new build homes on the horizon, we

can accelerate that coverage further."

Last month, the County Council announced that Openreach, Britain’s largest telephone and broadband network, had been awarded a contract to deliver a third phase of BBfN, which will provide access to fullfibre, ultrafast broadband for more than 2,500 homes and businesses in the Bassetlaw and Newark & Sherwood districts. Homes benefitting from ultrafast broadband speeds can

download a two hour HD film in just 90 seconds, a 45 minute HD TV show in around 16 seconds, or a nine hour audio book in just three seconds.

The £2.7 million contract will be delivered in some of the most rural parts of Nottinghamshire .

Detailed planning and survey work for phase three is underway , with the roll out expected to begin in Spring 2019 and take around six months to complete. It will move Nottinghamshire ever closer to 100% superfast broadband coverage. To find out more about the Better Broadband for Nottinghamshire programme, visit www.nottinghamshire. gov.uk/broadband

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bus prepares for school visit Pupils from a Nottinghamshire school are to see one of the county’s first-ever electric buses when it visits this week.

This Wednesday, from 9.30am to midday, Nottinghamshire County Council will be visiting Radcliffe on Trent Junior School, in Cropwell Road, Radcliffe on Trent, with one of its brand new electric buses.

The new buses went on full service last month and the school are keen to use the visit as part of their electricity & energy curriculum work. Colleagues from the county council’s Waste & Energy Team will also be present to offer wider information on energy saving techniques and opportunities.

Following Nottinghamshire County Council and Government investment, bus passengers are benefitting from quieter, smoother, greener buses on the 510 and 511 routes which run between Beeston, Toton and Stapleford connecting with the tram network at Toton Lane Park and Ride and Beeston Bus and Tram Interchange.

Nottinghamshire County Council Councillor John Cottee, Communities and Place Committee Chairman, said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase our vehicles to a young audience and is extremely useful to help support the school’s curriculum as the pupils learn about electricity and energy. Our new electric buses give a real life example of how green technology is benefitting our communities.

"Nottinghamshire County Council is committed to improving air quality for our residents and these new buses produce zero exhaust emissions meaning that residents and passengers benefit from cleaner air along the routes.” The 510 and 511 bus routes provide a vital service for many people

who cannot access the commercial bus network, providing access to training, employment, health, shopping and leisure facilities. These routes take in popular destinations such as Attenborough Nature Reserve, Bardills Garden Centre, Japanese Water Gardens Stapleford and Beeston town centres and Chilwell Retail Park.

The £910,000 project to fund the two buses comes on the back of more than £500,000 Government funding and £410,000 worth of Nottinghamshire County Council investment.

Other benefits generated by the new buses include zero exhaust emissions - helping reduce harmful emissions which impact on health and the environment, reduced C02 emissions and reduced running costs due to cheaper costs of electricity compared to diesel.

The vehicles also provide smoother and quieter journeys - reduced engine noise so passengers can enjoy a better journey experience and have a larger seating capacity - allowing more users to access the service.

Free paint on offer for Notts residents - additional collection dates announced Nottinghamshire residents have another chance to collect free paint - thanks to the Community RePaint scheme run by Nottinghamshire County Council’s waste contractors Veolia. Free paint will be available to collect on the following dates: Calverton Recycling Centre, NG14 6NR - Thursday 9th August - 5-7pm Warsop Recycling Centre, NG20 0JG - Wednesday 22nd August - 5-7pm Newark Recycling Centre, NG24 2EG - Tuesday 4th September - 5-7pm Beeston Recycling Centre, NG9 1PF Thursday 20th September - 5-7pm Don't miss out - book in a time slot by calling Nottinghamshire County Council on 0300 500 80 80. (Pre booking is essential) An estimated 50 million litres of the 320 million litres of paint sold in the UK each year go to waste. This paint is either thrown away or stored in homes or garages despite more than half of it still being usable.

Last year the Community RePaint scheme added colour to the lives of over 316,000 people across the UK, including groups, charities and residents from Nottinghamshire who took part in the scheme. The scheme

accepts unwanted/surplus paint from Nottinghamshire residents at the recycling centres in Warsop, Newark, Beeston and Calverton. Any tins that are at least half full of reusable paint are stored separately in the shelved reuse container and are given away for free to registered community groups, schools and charities and at special one off events to members of the public.

Lea Hawkes, General Manager for Veolia in Nottinghamshire said: ‘We

welcome Nottinghamshire residents to donate their unwanted paint at the 4 Recycling Centres, which we in turn distribute freely to Community Groups and residents in a bid to support the community, help the environment and save people money.’

As usual when visiting a Recycling Centre please wear sturdy, closed toe footwear and it’s a good idea to bring bags or boxes to protect your vehicle when transporting the paint home.

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Rushcliffe Country Park recognised as one of the UK’s very best green spaces

Rushcliffe Country Park in Ruddington has been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as one of the very best in the UK. The park is among a recordbreaking 1,883 UK parks and green spaces that have received a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Deputy Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Debbie Mason said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for the 12th year.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors.

“This award celebrates the dedication from our staff and the park’s wonderful volunteers, the Friends of Rushcliffe Country Park, who put such effort into maintaining it to such a high standard year in year out.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, with more Green Flags awarded this year than last year.”

“Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We are proud to have so many wonderful green spaces in the UK for people to enjoy, and hope that next year, we award even more flags.”

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45,000 LED street light th

highlights County Council investment

Nottinghamshire got its 45,000th new LED light this week, marking the latest stage of the County Council’s street light replacement project to convert all old-style, low pressure sodium lights to new, efficient LEDs. Mansfield residents, including Lonan Close, Forest Town, where the 45,000th LED light was fitted, are benefitting from a full conversion of all 13,500 lights to new energy-saving LED street lights and up to 500 new columns across the town. The £3.2m

project in Mansfield started earlier this Spring and is due to be complete

by April 2019. Overall, the Council has invested £9.2m in the street light upgrading/ replacement project.

Nottinghamshire County Council’s energy-saving project to replace half of the county’s 94,000 street lights is already saving tax payers around £1.5m each year in reduced energy bills – which is enough to power over 3,500 homes for a year or drive an electric vehicle more than 2,200 times around the world.

Carbon emissions have been reduced by 12,000 tonnes. Overall savings since the beginning of the project total more than £5.4m. This major work is being overseen by Via East Midlands, who manage the County’s highways network on behalf of Nottinghamshire County Council.

Nottinghamshire County Council Communities and Place Committee Chairman, Councillor John Cottee said, “The old-style orange lights in Mansfield were becoming inefficient and impossible to repair. LED lighting

generates savings in terms of reduced energy bills, benefiting Nottinghamshire tax payers.

“The new LED’s require very little maintenance, are generally between 60-70 per cent more efficient and have a longer lifespan. “Good-quality street lighting is vital to having an excellent, safe highways network, which is a priority for our administration.”

“In fact we have made additional £20m funding available to help improve our highways across the county.

“The additional investment is targeted mainly at residential areas with schemes to improve road surfaces and introduce new safety features where they are required; such pedestrian crossings and interactive speed signs on routes used every day by people to get to and from home.”

Paint a bike bright green or yellow

to celebrate the Tour of Britain Villagers in Cropwell Bishop are the latest community to be entering the spirit of the Tour of Britain, appealing to fellow residents to paint bicycles in a bright green or yellow to celebrate the race’s arrival.

Cropwell Bishop Parish Council and residents are now appealing for bikes destined for the scrap heap to recycle them so they can be used as a colourful celebration of national event that winds its way through the village on September 8. Alternatively, villagers are encouraged to cover their own bikes in inexpensive yellow and green ribbon. They are also encouraging those who are set to congregate in the village for the event, to dress and paint their faces in the theme colours of yellow and green. Or they can also bring along items such as bike bells

to make as much noise as possible to provide further encouragement to the cyclists. Those that live in the village are also being urged to decorate their houses, gardens and businesses that can be viewed from the route in the tour celebration colours and a prize will be offered for the best dressed house and business.

Opportunities for children and younger people will be available in the area so they can get involved with the event with colourful creations and there will be a prize given for the best decorated cycling helmet.

The Parish Council is now appealing to other residents within the village to come forward with any further ideas they might have, including any opportunities for land art that could be caught by the live ITV4 cameras on

the day of the event. Those who wish to get involved should email: clerk@ cropwellbishop-pc.gov.uk.

Villagers and visitors can find out more about how to celebrate the Tour at www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/tob Communities across Rushcliffe are encouraged further to get involved as it visits West Bridgford, Compton Acres, Ruddington, Bradmore, Bunny, East Leake, Costock, Wysall, Keyworth, Plumtree, Tollerton, Cotgrave, Radcliffe-on-Trent and Shelford by visiting the webpage.

Alternatively all interested businesses, community groups and individuals in Rushcliffe can call 0115 914 8555 or email media@rushcliffe.gov.uk to find out more how they can celebrate the sporting spectacular in their neighbourhoods.

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Owzat! National land art competition

launched at Trent Bridge for the Tour of Britain Organisers of the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, have called on Nottinghamshire and the rest of the country to bowl them over with eyecatching land and water art alongside the route of this year’s 1,140-kilometre event.

The tradition of creating land art masterpieces along the route has long been the practice at the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, as well as other cycle races around the world, but this will be the first time that The Tour has held a competition to find the best piece of land art, with the winner due to receive a trophy and commemorative Tour of Britain prizes.

Community groups, schools, businesses and land owners across Britain will be encouraged to take part in the competition during the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, which takes place from Sunday 2 to Sunday 9 September with Nottinghamshire hosting the longest and penultimate stage on Saturday 8 September.

The national competition was launched at the iconic Trent Bridge Cricket ground, which is on the route of the Nottinghamshire stage which will starts in West Bridgford and due for a thrilling finale in Mansfield. More than 60 pupils from West Bridgford Junior School geared up for the competition by forming a bike shape - using giant parachutes as wheels - on the Trent

Bridge cricket pitch. The race route will pass close by to the school.

Councillor Kay Cutts, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council said; “It’s a great testament to the success of last year’s race that national organisers have chosen our county to launch this exciting competition. Nottinghamshire people came out in their thousands to line the race route which added a tremendous sparkle to the event.

“At 223kms, we are hosting the

longest stage - so our county has a fantastic opportunity to get involved and hopefully a winner will be found here in Nottinghamshire “Last year we had so many examples of magical landart moments provided by schools such as John Blow Primary School in Collingham and Newstead Primary School, not to mention Girton Sailing Club’s bike made of boats and the much-talked about sheep creation

by Coddington-based farmer Des

Allen.”

Attending today’s launch, Des, whose sheep-based land art went viral on social media during the 2017 OVO Energy Tour of Britain, added: “We were staggered by the response that our small efforts received last year. We did it as a bit of fun and the response was fantastic. I would urge people to have a go; from a little bit of effort it is sometimes amazing the response you receive.”

covering a wide range of issues such as climate change, flood risk and water management, environmental protection, retail and community facilities, protecting garden land and transport. There are policies that set out how land will be used to secure a mix of housing to reflect the housing needs and demographic of areas across the borough, including smaller housing and specialist housing for the elderly in certain towns and villages.

The Local Planning Document also protects land from development. It will ensure there is a five year supply of land which will help reduce proposals for development in inappropriate locations. The site selection process for allocating land for development has taken into account the impact on heritage and landscape and protects those areas from development.

The document was supported by the Local Plan Inspector, subject to main modifications, who concluded that it provided an appropriate basis for the planning of the borough. The Inspector also commented that the consultation process, during which the council received over 2,000 comments, had exceeded the standards normally required. Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth, Portfolio Holder for Growth & Regeneration said: “The Local Planning Document addresses the key planning issues in Gedling Borough and sets out a clear and locally distinctive vision for the future development of the borough. With the Local Plan in place we will be able to provide certainty for investors, co-ordinate the delivery of infrastructure and seek funding to support infrastructure and growth. It will allow us to provide much needed new homes, encourage economic growth and support regeneration.”

You can view the Local Planning Document here: https:// www.gedling.gov.uk/media/gedlingboroughcouncil/ documents/planningbuildingcontrol/planningpolicy/LPD. pdf For more information visit www.gedling.gov.uk/lpd

Find out more and how to register your planned land art with race organisers where you can also find some useful tips and advice to aid your creativity, plus a ‘best of landart 2017’ video clip which features the Coddington sheep art as well as Girton Sailing Club’s bike of boats, plus a field with a giant ‘Retford’ sign at www.tourofbritain. co.uk/land-art.

A panel comprising Mick Bennett; ITV4 presenters Matt Barbet and Yanto Barker; and representatives from race organisers SweetSpot will decide the top three pieces of art at the end of this year's event.

“We are delighted to be adding this land art competition to the ways that communities across the country can get involved in the race this September,” said OVO Energy Tour of Britain Race Director Mick Bennett.

“Last year’s Nottinghamshire stage in particular saw several fantastic examples of land art created by community groups, and this has inspired us to encourage people across the route this year to show their support and get creative. Over the coming weeks we will see countless examples of land art during the Tour de France, which will inspire people’s creativity.”

Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club all-rounder Paul Coughlin said: “We are lucky to regularly play in front of big Trent Bridge crowds, so I know the

riders are going to really enjoy coming to Nottinghamshire for the Tour of Britain, where I’m sure spectators will come out in force.

“The land art competition is a fantastic initiative to spark interest in the race, and one that everyone can get involved with. I’m looking forward to seeing what people in the county come up with for their entries.”

The winner will receive a trophy and commemorative Tour of Britain prizes, presented in person by Mick Bennett, while the runner-up and third-place finisher will also take home trophies for their efforts.

The race, Britain’s most prestigious international men’s stage race on the UCI calendar, is sponsored by OVO Energy, the UK’s largest independent energy company for the second successive year.

Local Planning Document Councillors approve plan that will shape future development of the borough until 2028.

Councillors have voted to adopt the council’s Local Planning Document that sets out the future development of the borough, drawn up by the council in consultation with the community.

At Full Council, Councillors voted unanimously in favour to adopt the Local Planning Document and make it the council’s policy document for future development.

The Local Planning Document is a 200-page planning policy document and together with the Aligned Core Strategy will guide development in Gedling Borough up to 2028. The document sets out several planning policies including, site selection, urban regeneration, types of housing to be built, economic development opportunities and infrastructure requirements.

It includes details of proposed sites to accommodate 7,250 homes around the borough to be built by 2028, although over half of these have already been built or granted planning permission. It details plans for sites allocated for new homes that maximises the development on brownfield sites and minimises the release of green belt, with over 75% of the housing provision within or next to urban areas. It also sets out a strategy for improved sustainable development that recognises the need for regeneration in areas where brownfield sites are available such as on the former Gedling Colliery/ Chase Farm where 1,050 houses have been allocated. The Local Planning Document contains 71 policies

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boost for Nottinghamshire 2,500 premises in Bassetlaw and Newark & Sherwood to get ultrafast broadband speeds as Council awards £2.7 million digital infrastructure contract to Openreach People living in some of the most rural parts of Nottinghamshire are set to benefit from a further £2.7 million boost to fibre broadband.

More than 2,500 homes and businesses in the Bassetlaw and Newark & Sherwood districts will be included in the next phase of the Better Broadband for Nottinghamshire (BBfN) scheme, after Nottinghamshire County Council awarded Openreach, Britain’s largest telephone and broadband network, a contract to deliver a third phase of work.

It will move Nottinghamshire closer to every home and business having access to broadband and further enhance the county’s position amongst the most digitally connected areas in the whole of the UK. Around £30 million has been invested in Nottinghamshire’s digital infrastructure since the start of the BBfN roll out in 2014.

Phase three of BBfN will see a further £2.7m investment, including £1.3 million from Nottinghamshire County Council, the government’s BDUK broadband delivery programme and

£1.4 million from Openreach.

The work will build on the 97.5 per cent of premises across the county that can already access faster broadband (speeds of 24 Mbps and above), thanks to the first two phases of the BBfN programme and Openreach’s own commercial rollout.

Councillor Reg Adair, Deputy Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “Our latest investment in the county’s digital infrastructure will see Nottinghamshire pushing towards 100% broadband coverage, which is great news for residents, businesses and the local economy.

“More than 50 per cent of homes and businesses in the areas where we have rolled out our scheme have already signed up for faster broadband, which clearly shows demand is there.

“Broadband plays such a huge part in our lives these days, so good availability is one of the top priorities for people looking to buy a home, start a business or invest in an area.

Nottinghamshire is already amongst the best areas for availability in the country and our on-going investment keeps us ahead of the rest.”

Detailed planning and survey work for phase three will get underway shortly, with the roll out expected to begin in Spring 2019 and take around six

months to complete.

And there’s further good news for the 2,500 properties included, with Openreach looking to use Full Fibre technology for this third contract in Nottinghamshire, meaning ultrafast speeds of up to 330 Mbps – around ten times quicker than the current UK average – available to all 2,500 premises.

Homes benefitting from ultrafast broadband speeds can download a two hour HD film in just 90 seconds, a 45 minute HD TV show in around 16 seconds, or a nine hour audio book in just three seconds.

Steve Henderson, Openreach’s regional director for next generation access, said: “Our work in Nottinghamshire is making a huge impact throughout rural communities.

We’ve already reached close to 74,000 premises through our work with the county council, and we’re looking forward to going even further with this new contract. We know it’s important for people to be connected to faster broadband, and Openreach’s expertise, as well as being able to provide residents with the choice of internet service providers, is good news all round for the people of Nottinghamshire.”

Work carried out as part of the Better

Broadband for Nottinghamshire programme is in addition to Openreach’s own commercial rollout in the county.

Openreach provides the telephone and broadband network used by the likes of BT, Sky and Talktalk. So in Nottinghamshire, this means residents and business owners will still be

able to choose from a wide range of broadband deals - they are not restricted to just one supplier.

Openreach recently launched an ambitious ‘Fibre First’ programme that aims to reach three million front doors across the UK by the end of 2020, with an ambition to extend this to around 10 million premises by

the mid-2020s, and ultimately, with the right conditions to invest, to the majority of homes and businesses across Britain. You can find out more at openreach.co.uk/ultrafast To find out more about the Better Broadband for Nottinghamshire programme, visit www. nottinghamshire.gov.uk/broadband

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PULP FRICTION

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Pulp Friction is a social enterprise which supports adults with learning disabilities to develop their social, independence and work-readiness skills within a range of catering and hospitality settings. As well as Pedal-Powered Smoothie/Blender Bikes which are hired for different community events, they also have a vintage-style ice-cream tricycle which is also hired for events, weddings, garden parties etc. In addition to this they run the canteen at Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Services HQ and the cafĂŠ within the National Justice Museum as an alternative to traditional Day Services.

The Service offered at the NFRS Canteen and the Robe Room Cafe supports people to develop skills in real work settings. Members prepare, cook & serve meals to Customers and also prepare buffets for meeting and training events. Members develop their social skills, self confidence, learn about nutrition, portion control and make new friends in a supportive, safe environment.

Any profits from the above activities help to subsidise a range of social, leisure and educational activities: Pulp Friction runs an inclusive Community Choir which regularly performs at different community events. In September they will be taking part in the Centenary Cities programme and will learn songs about the Women's Suffrage Movement. This year Pulp Friction have established a partnership with the award-winning charity DanceSyndrome and have introduced the concept of Disability-Led Dance to Nottingham. They have a performance group which meets on Wednesdays and are also running an Inclusive Dance Leadership programme. A polytunnel has been built in which they will be growing their own salads and vegetables throughout the year and have set up a composting project where Members will become Expert Composters who will be able to share their knowledge with members of the public at different community events. Every December Pulp Friction host a big party on the last Friday before Christmas. Anyone with an interest, or involvement, in Pulp Friction and what they do is invited us to join them on what has become a bit of a Christmas tradition!

Contact Jill Carter on 07794 676398 Web: www.pulpfrictionsmoothies.org.uk - Facebook: www.facebook.com/PulpFrictionSmoothieBarProject - Twitter: @pulpfrictionews

PULP FRICTION SERVICES

standard. A complete variety of recipes and the freshest ingredients provide some of the finest fruit smoothies.

Outside Catering Fresh Lemonades , iced tea and much Whether Corporate or private , long much more also provided to quench term or a one off we can provide all of your thirst! your catering needs to suit any budget If you would sooner an ice cream........ with our delicious bespoke menus then continue reading!

Smoothie Bikes

minutes or so with salt and ice , 20 servings of freezing ice cream or sorbet is produced for your satisfaction. It is very cold and is certain to cool you right down.

Still mad about Ice cream ?

Ice Cream Machine Bike

Ice Cream Tricycle Working the same way as our Our team or our customers can power Smoothie Bikes this ice cold bike these Smoothie Bikes to use at any comes complete with an ice cream event for refreshments of the highest maker at the front. Pedalling for 20

Holding a fundraising event ?

Planning a wedding ? or even having a gathering at home in the garden ? Look no further than our vintage– style-ice cream tricycle for the ultimate cool down refreshment. By offering Pulp

Friction a free pitch at your event they will even offer 20% of the daily takings.

Any profits made by Pulp friction during any commercial events are put back into educational activities such as Their very own Inclusive community choir , disability led dance leadership programme and their work at Glastonbury festival.

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Page 10.

Parks recognised as two

of the UK’s very best green spaces Two of Bassetlaw’s outstanding parks have again been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as two of the very best in the world.

Kings’ Park in Retford and The Canch in Worksop are among a recordbreaking 1,883 UK parks and green spaces that have this week received a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that Bassetlaw’s parks boasts the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.

Cllr Julie Leigh, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to again receive Green Flag Awards for both Kings Park and The Canch. Our parks have fantastic facilities for all ages including modern splashpools, multi-use games areas, playgrounds, open spaces and beautifully maintained gardens.

“Each year we get lots of complements for our parks, so we know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors. These awards celebrate the dedication that goes into maintaining our parks to such a

high standard, and it is testament to Flags awarded this year than last year.” tirelessly to maintain the high wonderful green spaces in the UK for the hard work of our Parks and Open “Each flag honours the thousands standards demanded by the Green Flag people to enjoy, and hope that next Spaces team, along with our Grounds of staff and volunteers who work Award. We are proud to have so many year, we award even more flags.”

Maintenance staff and our civic partners.”

Kings’ Park is celebrating over a decade of world class standards after receiving its 11th successive Green Flag, while The Canch has achieved Green Flag status for the fifth year running.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, with more Green

Next step for Broadmarsh regeneration

Councillors will be asked next week to agree to move ahead with the construction of the new Broadmarsh Car Park and Bus Station.

The new, modern car park with integrated bus station and retail units is an essential part of the wider Broadmarsh programme, which will deliver significant regeneration on the southern side of the city centre, and complement intu’s redevelopment of the shopping centre.

Members of Nottingham City Council’s Executive Board will be asked at a meeting on Tuesday 31 July to approve the project and to progress with awarding a contract for construction.

Council Leader Cllr Jon Collins said: “This is an important milestone in the project that will enable this exciting development to be delivered.

“The positive impact of investment to date, such as the transport hub at the station, the latest tram extension and the transformation of Station Street, can already be seen in the form of renewed interest in the area and other,

private developments coming forward.

“Work began recently on the new Nottingham College and the castle refurbishment is now under way.

“Moving ahead with the new car park and bus station development is the next piece of the jigsaw and can only further promote this regeneration momentum, bringing undoubted economic benefits to the city centre, and providing a high quality addition to the streetscape between the station and the city centre.

“It’s vital we progress as soon as possible to maximise the economic benefits and renewed interest in revitalising this area.”

The Broadmarsh Car Park development replaces the previous 1960s building, demolished earlier this year, and will provide a bright, safe and clean environment, offering: • A 1,341 space car park with dedicated accessible spaces, parent and child spaces, electric car charging spaces and a taxi drop-off zone • A modern bus station, delivering an improved passenger experience,

better connected to the transport hub at Nottingham train station • Retail units in Carrington Street, Collin Street and along the concourse area fronting onto the bus station The new building will also feature rooftop solar panels providing a sustainable energy source, and digital information screens.

Planning approval was granted in February, and part of the funding has been secured from the Government through the D2N2 Local Enterprise partnership.

In total, developments in the wider Broadmarsh area – the car park, bus station, shopping centre, college and castle – represent a £250m investment, and are expected to create 3,000 jobs, £10b GVA uplift over ten years, and attract around three million new visitors every year.

The car park development alone is forecast to create more than 100 jobs and generate almost £3m a year for the Nottingham economy. It is expected that construction will commence later this year.

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Booking A Church Wedding Ceremony:

Everything You Need to Know Saying your vows in a church is a traditional part of planning a wedding, and a quarter of couples plan on getting married in a religious ceremony. www. hitched.co.uk have put together the ultimate beginner’s guide to church wedding ceremonies, so you know exactly what you need to do.

What are the legal requirements for a church wedding? You can marry in a church wedding ceremony from the age of 18 onwards in a church wedding ceremony in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you’re aged 16 or 17, you will need your parents’ approval in England and Wales, but not in Scotland where it’s legal without consent providing there are two witnesses. Church wedding ceremonies must take place between 8am and 6pm and be witnessed by at least two people. You’ve probably heard about ‘having your banns read’ in connection to a church wedding – this is required before the marriage takes place as it signifies your intention to marry. Your banns will be read out in the parish where each of you lives as well as in the church where you’re planning on marrying for three Sundays during the three months leading up to the wedding.

If you’re marrying in a hurry it is possible to skip having your banns read, but you will need to apply for a common licence for this. They cost from £200. You may also need a licence if one of you isn’t a British citizen or currently lives outside of the UK. In Scotland you’re required to give 15 days’ notice with the local registrar.

Do the rules differ depending on where in the UK the church is?

Depending on where you are in the UK and what kind of church you want to marry in will impact what you need to do. Scotland has different rules relating to church weddings that England and Wales, as explained above, and there are stricter residency requirements for those planning a church wedding in Northern Ireland.

A Catholic church ceremony is different to book compared to a Church of England wedding too – for example, you will need a dispensation to marry in a Catholic ceremony if one of you is not Catholic, but you don’t have to have the banns read out beforehand. Do I have to attend the church to get married there?

The Church of England gives all British citizens with no former partner still living the right to get married in the parish church of the town where

they live, or where either of the couple are on the church’s electoral roll.

You can also get married in church to which you have a connection, such as: - Either of you lived in that church’s parish for six months or more - One of you regularly attended worship in that parish for six months or more - Either of you were baptised or prepared for confirmation in the parish - One of your parents lived in the parish/ regularly attended worship there for six months or more in their child’s lifetime - Your parents or grandparents were married in the parish. If you attend services at your chosen church for six months – even if you only attend a single service a month – that can help your case. Do I have to be religious to have a church wedding? You don’t have to be religious to have a Church of England wedding, however for a Catholic wedding at least one of you must follow the faith and you’re required to get a dispensation to marry there for the one that isn’t Catholic.

Anyone is welcome to have a Church of England wedding, regardless of their beliefs as the vicars understand that 'spiritual beliefs are complex and varied'. How far in advance should I book my church wedding ceremony?

It works the same way as booking a civil wedding ceremony in that places will get booked up months in advance.

Talk to your vicar or the church office as soon as possible, particularly if you’re hoping to marry in peak wedding season. Bear in mind most Church of England churches won’t host ceremonies during Lent, although this isn’t usually the case for Catholic ceremonies.

How much does a church wedding ceremony cost? It costs around £500 to get married in a church in England and Wales, so make sure you factor this into your wedding budget.

This cost covers the expense of reading of the banns, the certificate, the vicar and the use of the church itself.

Extra details such as flowers, having the bells rung or making use of the organist or choir will incur additional costs.

It’s worth noting in Scotland and Northern Ireland there is no fixed cost for a church wedding.

Can we use our own vows in a church wedding

ceremony? If you’re planning on writing your own wedding vows, a church ceremony might not be for you. In England and Wales you cannot change any part of the wedding vows, however in Scotland you can vary the traditional vows or write your own as long as the minister approves them.

You can include poems, readings or songs in your vows as long as your vicar is okay with it. Can I decorate the church with my own flowers? Most churches will be able to recommend someone from the parish who can decorate the church for you, but it shouldn’t be a problem to bring in your own floral displays. Just check with your vicar where you can have the flowers as you wouldn’t want a large arrangement to get in the way during the ceremony.

What is a wedding rehearsal? Lots of churches offer the chance to have a wedding rehearsal – this allows you, your partner and your bridal party to run through the service ahead of the big day so you know what to expect and when. Can we have confetti at our church wedding? This varies from church to church so check with your vicar and let your guests know in advance. If wedding confetti is not allowed, find out if they’ll allow you to use a natural or bio-degradable type of confetti instead. Can we have the reception in the church hall? Usually you can – check with the church office to find out. You can also have your reception at a different venue if you wish.

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Church Versus Registry Office Many women dream about their wedding day from childhood. Not only is it one of the biggest days of a person’s life, it is also likely to be the most romantic. Given the momentous nature of the all-important wedding, it should therefore come as no surprise that a lot of thought goes into the planning involved. And one of the most significant aspects of that is the wedding venue. While most people associate a wedding with a church and minister, tying the knot in registry offices has become increasingly popular over the years. Ultimately, however, the decision between church and registry office depends on the individuals in question.

A bride and groom-to-be could think about whether they want a traditional wedding versus modern. There is nothing more traditional than donning a lavish white wedding dress and walking down a long aisle flanked by scores of family and friends to the tune of Here Comes the Bride.

The tradition of having the father of

the bride accompany his daughter and give her away at the altar is one that many dads dream about. Having bridesmaids at the side of the wifeto-be is another comforting aspect of traditional weddings that is so engrained in our cultural identity. But such strict adherence to tradition is not everyone’s cup of tea — particularly those who are in no way religious.

Ultimately, marriage is a legal contract and what better way to seal that than by having a more official and straightforward ceremony in a registry office? As opposed to having passages from the bible recited and old religious hymns sung by guests, registry office weddings can incorporate a more modern set up consisting of clear and concise vows - that are not necessarily devoid of romance — along with songs that again, are not strictly religious. At the bones of the comparison between church and registry office is just how lavish you want your wedding to be.

For example, at a church there will be room for more guests, in which case

a big and extravagant ceremony is a possibility, but in an official office, only a handful of people can be present.

Brides feel more comfortable wearing a fabulous traditional wedding gown in a church, but in a registry office, a smart dress and jacket seems more apt.

A church wedding undoubtedly provides men and women — regardless of their religion - with the ultimate fairytale setting that is often considered more romantic and magical. But, on the plus side of the registry office, it can be an awful lot cheaper. There is also less wedding planning and stress involved, meaning that the bride and groom can focus solely on each other and the reasons why they are tying the knot, instead of being distracted by the drama surrounding the spectacle that is their big day. There is a lot to be said for couples who do not need to profess their love to the world by spending thousands of pounds on an over-thetop ceremony. Clearly all they need is each other.

How to Choose a Wedding Venue:

What You Need to Consider Finding the perfect venue is likely to be at the top of any newly engaged couples list. With the venue playing a vital role in the success of your day it’s the big decision you really need to get right. Just like viewing a new property it is easy to become overexcited and fall in love with a place without checking the venue can cater to your requirements, so hitched.co.uk are here to answer that question - how to choose a wedding venue?

Wait until you get the feeling Much like finding your dress, the shoes, a new home, it is true that when you view venues you will know if it is right for you. You need to be able to picture yourself there on the day and ensure the style of the building both exterior and interior will work with the theme of your wedding.

Finding the right venue in our opinion is the most important factor, once you fall in love with somewhere before rushing in to anything at the very least check the following match your criteria: Is it the right location?

Where will your guests be coming from? If they are not local, choosing a venue that is easily accessible, has accommodation on site or hotels in close proximity is desirable. If you have guests coming from abroad how far is the closest international airport?

These factors may play a role in your decision making.

Is the capacity right for you?

Think about whether you need a large capacity wedding venue or a smaller and more intimate wedding venue. The size of the venue is just as important, too small for your number of guests and the room will feel stuffy and overcrowded, too big and guests will feel lost and the space will feel cold. When a space is empty it is hard to imagine how it will look when filled

with tables. For this reason we would always advise viewing a venue when it is set up for a wedding. If this is not possible ask to see photographs, most venues should have a photo book or slide-show. Another tip is to ask for a seating plan of the room at capacity, this will give you a good idea of how much space there is and how comfortably your guests numbers will fit.

Ask about the flow of the day Make sure the venue representative talks you through how a typical day runs. The flow of the day is crucial, any long pauses or delays and your guests will become bored. If your ceremony and reception is in the same room how long does the turnaround take, where will the guests be and what will they be doing? This is also relevant between the reception meal and the evening dancing. The weather in the UK can be unpredictable to say the least! If it does rain does the venue have indoor space for the reception drinks? Do they provide a master of ceremonies/manager? This takes the stress off you and is the best way to make sure all your guests are where they are meant to be at all times.

Check the timings Planning the time of your ceremony is a big decision; when do the venue advise? In our experience weddings of 8-9 hours work well, any longer than this and the atmosphere dwindles towards the end, you want your wedding to end on a high!

Also bear in mind where the majority of people will be coming from on the day, leave plenty of time for people to get ready and arrive.

Also ask, what set up time is included in the hire fee, when will your suppliers have access to the room and when do things need to be collected?

Think about the lighting. Lighting plays an important part in any event, if your ceremony is during the day does the room have lots of natural daylight?

During the evening do they provide/ let you bring in candles?

Cameras will be a big part of your day so practise your smiles! Bearing this in mind what is the surrounding area around your venue like? Where will your photographs be? If you are looking at a central town hall where will you take outdoor photographs?

The view from the venue and any outdoor space is also a massive plus not only for photographs but for your guests enjoyment. Does the venue

have grounds or ample outdoor space – this is useful if you have children attending and for guests to stretch their legs for ten minutes after the reception meal. Check the finer details.

At the venue viewing stage you will not know every detail of your day however you must ask the venue what is not permitted…. If you envisage a romantic candlelit winter ceremony check the venue permits candles! If you are having your ceremony at the same venue can you throw confetti?

Finding these details out early in the planning stage before you book is essential, you are likely to have an idea of what your day will be like and

the venue needs to be able to live up to this, for this reason write a list of…..

Make a list of your non-negotiable's Before viewing any venues sit down with your partner and discuss any non-negotiable's these could include: Budget – will the venue be able to provide everything you need within your budget, is VAT included in the price, are staff gratuities added and if so are they optional? Catering – What type of cuisine would you like? Can the venue provide this?

Suppliers – do you have artistic friends that want to bake the cake or take the photographs? If so check the venue will permit this or do you need to use

their recommended suppliers?

Live music – if you would like a band does the venue permit this? If you would like a string quartet during reception drinks do the venue allow music outside?

Fireworks, sparklers, flame eaters etc. – if you have any different entertainment ideas check your venue will allow it. Finding your venue will be one of the big milestones in your wedding planning and will determine your date, location and therefore will impact a lot of your other wedding planning decisions. You may even want to consider finding a wedding dress that perfectly suits your venue.

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The Importance of Choosing the Right Colours for your Wedding

70% of the brides have no idea what colour theme to have for their big day, so if you fall into that 70% of the bridal population, you’re definitely not on your own. So the next time someone asks you, “which colour do you have in mind for the wedding theme?” there’s no need to jump at the first colour that springs to mind, take your

time and above all, take advice from experts such as those from Chaircover Depot, who will be able to guide you through the task of wedding colour coordination for your big day. Colours – Cool, Warm & Neutral. Colours have the ability to have a dramatic impact on our psychology, hence it is important to choose the right colours

for the weddings. Cool colours that are associated with water convey a calming effect. Moreover warm colours lead to excitement whereas neutral colours express unity and harmony. And there you were thinking that choosing the right wedding colour for your big day would be a piece of cake?!

As well as choosing a colour theme which reflects the right qualities for your occasion, the colour you end up choosing should compliment everything from your groom, right through to your venue (be it indoors or outdoors), the decor, the season you’re getting married and even your bridesmaids!

Choosing a Colour Palette. The foremost thing to be done is picking up a palette that will help bring the guests and you in the same colour zone. For example, red colour speaks out loud for itself symbolizing passion, love and strong affection, whereas pink symbolizes femininity and sensuality.

Blue stands for calmness and tranquillity, whites can prove to be jaw dropping and of course, white is a very traditional colour for weddings as it signifies purity and innocence. The list of possible colour combinations of course, endless, however a good place to start is to consider the tones and colours which you are most drawn to in your everyday life, as first and foremost, you want your wedding to reflect you and your partner as a couple. Good palette selection will

tie together all the decorating choices you make for your wedding, which is why it’s so important to choose a colour your really love as it will filter through into every area of your big day. Contrast is the new trend that has taken the limelight these days. People prefer a smart yet classy contrast like mint green with lavender, red and cyan.

The idea remains that the effect of these combinations should be stunning and eye popping in addition to having the right colour psychology. This contrast can be developed further with mapping many things you have in your wedding scene.

Your chosen colour scheme can be reflected in your wedding invitations, decors, flowers, wedding cake, chair covers, candelabras, favours, and even lighting. The use of colour can be subtle in many of these elements, with just a hint of your chosen colour theme carried through to create a perfectly coordinated impression without being overpowering.

Linking your colour scheme with the destination or theme of your wedding is a very popular option, with many

couples using their wedding venue as inspiration for their colour theme.

However choosing the right colours for destination weddings is extremely important. Choosing some noncontextual colours for a beach wedding wouldn’t go down well with the theme. Thus, a beach wedding would compliment well with sunset colours like orange.

Or a wedding on an island should preferably infuse hues of blue and turquoise.

If being different is your agenda then colours like hot pink, yellow may dominate the ceremony.

Your wedding memories, and also the all-important wedding snaps, will last a lifetime so don’t take any risks when it comes to choosing your colour scheme – make sure you take expert advice to ensure your wedding is picture perfect.

So seek the advice of the wedding planners and consider the colour that will make your wedding the most colourful occasion of your life. Just trust yourself and your wedding planners and you really won’t go wrong with this.

Pinterest sees a rise Wedding decorations in pork pie wedding cakes Latest findings by Pinterest suggest that wedding traditions are being turned on their head in favour of more creative ideas Pork pie wedding cakes are on the rise, as reported by Pinterest, which has seen a 20% increase in pins of the savoury alternative during 2016.

And this isn't the only unusual form of wedding catering that has grown in popularity with Pinterest users; gold pineapple wedding cakes, cheese wedding cakes and most notably,

geode wedding cakes (which have seen an increase in pins of 200%), have all proved firm favourites.

Uncovering a myriad of statistics that suggest couples are swaying towards more non-conventional weddings, further findings for 2016 include: Boho wedding hair pins - up by 47% Dessert tables - up by 13%, with macaron towers increasing by 52% in the last six months Alternative wedding attire - wedding dress jumpsuits up by 14% in the last

six months Engagement rings are also seeing a shift in convention, with brides opting for non-traditional designs such as morganite (up 62%), opal (up 42%) and pear shaped diamond (over 100% increase) in the past year.

However, classic wedding bands remain popular, with the most soughtafter designs over the last year including solitaire (up 27%), pave (up 24%), three stone (up 58%) and halo rings (up 11%).

on a budget

There’s no need to cut corners when it comes to beautiful decorations for your special occasion, all it takes is a little bit of lateral thinking, and a stash of sello –tape! Here are our top tips for creating your own unique wedding adornments on the cheap.

Table Centrepieces • Summer weddings or those which are taking place near the coast can take their inspiration, and their decor, directly from the sea. Collect an assortment of sea shells and fill clear or coloured vases full of the free ornaments. Your shells can also double as place name settings with a name tag delicately tied around an individual shell.

• There’s something about candlelight which makes it eternally romantic -plus candles are dirt cheap, and you’ll probably be able to get them even cheaper if you buy in bulk. Have a selection of different candles to create different effects.

A range of church candles of varying sizes arranged on top of a mirror adds an extremely glamorous touch to any wedding table. Alternatively you could have tea tree lights floating in a crystal bowl with a few choice petals or flower heads for an elegant centrepiece. If you have a bit of time of your hands, collect glass jam jars and decorate with coloured glass paint.

Pop a tea light candle in after dark and you have your own coloured lanterns.

• For inexpensive floral centrepieces choose flowers which are in season to

keep costs down. If you’re planning your wedding in advance, why not grow your own? Sweet peas are very easy to produce and grow like wildfire in the summer months, they come in a rainbow of colours too so you can coordinate them into you theme easily. You could also call on friends and neighbours for flowers from their gardens.

• Head to the park and pick up some

broken branches from any kind of tree, the more spindly the branch, the better.

Spray your find in either silver or gold and decorate with clear fairy lights.

• Utilise your bridesmaid’s bouquets by using them as the centrepieces for your table.

After the actual ceremony they have little need for their posies so why not put them to good use during the reception?

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SCHOOLS OUT! Chatsworth Country Fair Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1PP 31 Aug 2018 - 2 Sept 2018 There's nothing quite like the annual country fair at Chatsworth, one of England's most spectacular annual outdoor events. With a packed programme of grand ring entertainment, a cookery theatre and fine food village, there's lots to see and do. In the showground, you can try your hand at heritage country sports, rural country crafts, and admire the vintage and military vehicles on display. The Chatsworth Country Fair is a truly memorable event for all the family, with all the fun of the vintage fairground for the young and young at heart.

Grand Medieval Joust Bolsover Castle, Castle Street, Bolsover, Derbyshire, S44 6PR 26 Aug 2018 - 27 Aug 2018 Sunday - Monday 10:30 - 17:00 Experience a spectacle of speed and skill as four of the most masterful knights in the kingdom, mounted

on their magnificent steeds. Choose your champion and see who is victorious in this colourful display of chivalry and courage. Surround yourself if pageantry and marvel at falcons in flights. The living history encampments will take you back in time, where you'll be kept entertained by the court jester and merry musicians. Budding knights can enjoy their own hero moment as they test bravery in the hobby-horse jousting.

Peak District Highland Games at Matlock Farm Park Matlock Farm Park, Jaggers Lane, Darley Moor, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 5LH 26 Aug 2018 Sunday 10:00 - 16:30 The ‘Peak District Highland Games’ are returning to Matlock Farm Park for the second year.

Watch local super strong men compete in their varied events throughout the

day, including the Stone Throw, the 8 tonne Tractor Pull, and don’t miss the ‘Tossing of the Caber’!

You can also come and feed our animals, hold our little ones in the petting Barn, challenge yourself on the Kids Assault Course, feed the meerkats, encounter a hawk, get your face painted and lots more.

There will be craft and market stalls too, making this a great day out for all the family. SCHOOLS OUT! at Shipley Country Park on Thursday 9th August 2018.

During the school summer holidays there will be a different self-led activity each week. Return to the Visitor Centre to receive a certificate.

Length: 1-2 miles. Cost: £1 per child.

Meet: Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre Equipment: Suitable clothing and footwear Location: OS ref SK431 452 Sat Nav DE75 7GX Information: Shipley Country Park 01629 533991.

Parking charges apply. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Entry price (public): £1 per child

Summer Sale: KIDS PLAY FREE! Book your family Alton Towers Resort Short Break from just £66 per person and enjoy a fantabulous summer like never before!

Book by midnight 30th July for stays until 2nd September! Little ones can explore the world's only CBeebies Land, or for an extra special treat, stay over at the CBeebies Land Hotel.

While thrill seekers can brave Wicker Man, our brand new rollercoaster experience for 2018 guaranteed to get your heart pumping and sense tingling!

Please note: Kids Play Free means that 1 child (12 and under) goes free into the Theme Park for every full paying adult. Families with little ones will love exploring CBeebies Land -

with 14 CBeebies-themed rides and attractions and some of CBeebies’ most popular characters to meet, it’s the perfect place for children to learn, play and inspire their imaginations.

Families can also explore Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE, learn to drive at Cuckoo Cars Driving School, prepare to do battle with ghosts and ghouls on Duel, ride the Congo River Rapids, catch the Runaway Mine Train or enjoy the spins and thrills on Spinball Whizzer!

With over 50 rides and attractions, the Alton Towers Resort is Britain's Greatest Escape! Whether you're seeking family fun or pure adrenalinfuelled experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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Wildfire fund launched in National Park targets plastics waste Peak District National Park A wildfire fund has been launched in the Peak District National Park following a spate of moorland fires.

Donations to the fund will support fire prevention messages, volunteer costs and restoration work with moorland partners. Over the last few weeks, national park staff have supported emergency services at more than 20 moorland fires, fuelled by a combination of hot, dry weather, light breezes and parched ground. Sarah Fowler, chief executive of the Peak District National Park Authority, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the public’s concern and offers of support – and that has led to the launch of this wildfire fund.

Your donation will help to support our fire prevention work with partners and the work of our invaluable FireWatch volunteers.” She added: “It’s heartbreaking to see swathes of our internationally important landscapes being damaged. Wildfires

are catastrophic for wildlife, flora and, importantly, the peat itself which not only provides unique habitat but vital carbon and water storage.

“The smallest spark can lead to huge amounts of damage. Ashes blown from a barbecue, a broken glass, a dropped cigarette butt can devastate our precious and protected landscapes, and affect people's livelihoods. The damage to the environment, wildlife, habitats and vegetation takes years to recover.”

You can help by donating to: www. peakdistrict.gov.uk/wildfirefund The risk of fires remains high. You can also help by: * Reporting sightings of smoke or fire as quickly as possible by dialling 999 and giving an accurate location; * Taking home all your litter and any glass you may find on the moors; * Not using BBQs on the moors or general countryside; * Not dropping cigarette butts.

and litter with #MyPeakCup campaign UN World Environment Day asks world to beat ‘plastic pollution'.

The Peak District National Park is to tackle the issue of single-use plastics litter head-on with a new eco-friendly re-usable coffee cup - the first UK National Park to produce a dedicated alternative to disposable hot drinks cups.

The campaign is being launched as UN World Environment Day (Tuesday 5 June) asks the world to consider its use of plastics with a ‘beat plastic pollution’ message.

The UK’s original National Park receives around 10 million visitors a year, and plays host to more than 100 cafes and similar outlets within the National Park boundary.

The Peak District National Park now aims to play a part in reducing the seven million disposable cups used each day across the country – of which less than 1% are recycled and more than half a million end up as litter.

A new campaign ‘#MyPeakCup’ will see an environmentally-friendly reusable coffee cup on sale at National Park visitor centres and cycle hire outlets.

Through the campaign, those using the cup will benefit from a reduction in the cost of their hot drink with local businesses who are being encouraged to support the scheme, by honouring the discount programme.

It’s hoped by raising awareness of the issue of single use plastics, visitors

will move to using reusable cups during their visit. Sales of the cups will also go back to supporting work on the ground to care for and protect the Peak District National Park.

Sarah Fowler, chief executive of the Peak District National Park Authority said: “The huge sense of public feeling on this issue and how it affects our wildlife and environment was something we could not ignore here in the Peak District.

“Having led the way as the UK’s first ever National Park, we want to take the same pioneering approach with how to tackle litter and the environmental impact of take away coffee cups.

“For us it isn’t just simply creating a re-usable cup, but we are determined to ensure the product ticks all the boxes as an environmentally sensitive solution, from purchase to when it finally becomes recycled itself.

“To anyone who loves and cherishes the Peak District, I hope this will be an easy addition to their visit, along with supporting our many local, independent café retailers.”

The Peak District National Park have worked with leading reusable coffee cup producer Ecoffee cup, with the resulting item one of the most ecofriendly options available on the market today.

Made from sustainably grown, naturally sterile bamboo, the entire cup including the lid and heat band can be recycled at the end of its lifespan,

saving the use of hundreds of plasticlined single-use cups over several years.

The cup is available from National Park visitor centres at Edale, Castleton, Bakewell and Upper Derwent Valley along with National

Park cycle hire centres and online at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/shop.

For more information visit the MyPeakCup webpage: http://www. peakdistrict.gov.uk/looking-after/ projects-and-partnerships/my-peakcup.

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Page 18.

Athletics success Well done to Oakham athletes, Luke, Evan and Isabelle who represented Leicester and Rutland at the ESAA (English Schools Athletics Association) Championships at Birmingham last weekend.

The two day event saw Form 5 student Evan win Silver in the Intermediate Boys 200m (21.85s), narrowly missing Gold by 0.1 of a second.

His result met the national qualifying time standard and is an Oakham School Record. Following hot on the heels of this accomplishment, Evan will now compete at a national level representing England at the SIAB (Schools International Athletic Board) International Track and Field competition, near Edinburgh this weekend. He will be running against

competitors from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Isabelle (Form 3) competed in the Junior Girls 300m and finished 7th (40.99s). Her excellent result also met the national qualifying time as well as beating the Oakham School Record.

Luke (Form 6) took part in the Senior Boys Javelin and was placed 7th (51.23m).

Director of Athletics Trefon Vandoros said, “These are outstanding results and we are incredibly proud of them. It is all fantastic experience and we wish Evan the best of luck in this weekend’s competition.”

Oakham athletes have enjoyed much success lately with a record-breaking Summer Term and winning 43 medals at the County Championships.

Ketton and Tinwell

Neighbourhood Area Application Residents are being asked to comment on proposals that could lead to the creation of a joint neighbourhood plan for Ketton and Tinwell.

Rutland County Council has received an application to create a Ketton and Tinwell Neighbourhood Area, which is the first stage in the neighbourhood planning process.

The plan area covers both Ketton and Tinwell parishes. Local residents now have until Monday 30th July to share their views as part of a public consultation. Any comments should be submitted to Rutland County Council and can be sent via email to: localplan@rutland.gov.uk. Comments can also be made in writing to:

Planning Policy Manager Rutland County Council Catmose Oakham Rutland, LE15 6HP Full details of the Neighbourhood Area Application can be found online.

Application documents can also be inspected at Rutland County Council’s offices.

After the consultation has closed the Council will consider any responses received before making a final decision on the application.

If approved, the proposals would allow a Neighbourhood Plan for Ketton and Tinwell to be prepared to help shape development in the area.

Rutland Benefits

From £1.32m Business Fund Two local businesses have received nearly £100,000 to help them grow, thanks to Rutland County Council and Opportunity Peterborough.

Parker Farms, which is based in Ridlington, has been awarded £49,570, while Oakham-based Simmons Optometrist has received £44,754.

The money will help expand what they do and potentially employ more people.

Rutland County Council, together with economic development company Opportunity Peterborough, helped to secure £1.32 million of LEADER funding which is administered by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The programme is being delivered with support from a Local Action Group (LAG) made up of 14 local volunteers from a variety of sectors and professions. The LAG approve

funding for projects with the aim of improving the overall prosperity of the area.

The money is designed to boost rural economies, from supporting tourism and small business growth to aiding the development of agriculture,

farm diversification and forestry.

In the case of Parker Farms it will help buy a Direct Drill to improve cultivation and the sustainability of soil. Simmons Optometrist, which is based in Burley Road, will use the money to fund an extension.

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Parents encouraged to check eligibility for funded childcare for two-year-olds

Page 19.

Museum volunteers paint town red with new film launch It’s a well-known saying in many parts of the world and the phrase ‘painting the town red’ also has some strong links with Melton Mowbray.

Now, young volunteers from Melton Carnegie Museum have teamed up with heritage film group Pudding Bag Productions to make a film about the history of the saying and its historical connections to the town. This short film shines the spotlight on a fascinating

The scheme offers eligible children up to 570 hours of free childcare per year.

To qualify, parents must be getting one of the following: • Income Support • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) • Tax Credits and have an income under £16,190 • Universal Credit and have an annual net earned income of not over £15,400 Children are also entitled to a place if

they are looked after by Leicestershire County Council, have a current statement of special education needs (SEN), or an education health and care plan (EHCP), get Disability Living Allowance or have left care under a special guardianship order, child arrangements order or adoption order.

More than 1,200 children in the county currently receive funded childcare for two-year-olds.

We are delighted that parents of

two year olds across Leicestershire could benefit from additional funded childcare. Parents are encouraged to check their eligibility online or to talk with their childcare provider who can also help them with the process.

Person:Ivan Ould, county council cabinet member for children and families You can check eligibility or phone 0116 305 6208. There is also an online search tool to find a childcare provider

Drop in to Brookfields information event People urged to find out more about an independent living scheme. We purchased the site in Great Glen to provide homes for adults with disabilities.

The site’s current owners Waterloo Housing Group made the decision to sell the land, which is currently used as a sheltered living scheme for older people, following a reduction

in demand. We will refurbish and remodel the scheme to provide homes that will allow for independent living for adults with disabilities, with support staff based at the building.

Plans for the remodelled scheme have been developed however; work is not expected to begin until at least January 2019, following all of the current residents being rehoused to

alternative accommodation. The plan is to remodel the building and a small communal area.

This remodelling will remove the existing bedsits and reduce the maximum capacity to 20 people.

Should the sale and remodelling go to plan the aim is to have the first new tenants move in during the summer of 2019.

piece of Melton Mowbray’s history and is a credit to the hard work put in by the members of the Melton Young Researchers Group.

Person:Councillor Richard Blunt, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts. The young volunteers spent more than a year researching the story using newspapers reports of the time, writing the script and directing the filming at Oakham Castle and Melton

Carnegie Museum.

And the group enjoyed themselves so much making Painting the Town Red that they are now planning a second film project – this time based on the stories of individuals who have made Melton their home.

The finished film – entitled Painting the Town Red – was officially launched at Melton Carnegie Museum last week.

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Page 20.

Museums and heritage project win awards Two Leicestershire County Council museums and a heritage project which supports local people to discover their connections to the First World War have all scooped prizes in the Leicestershire and Rutland Heritage Awards.

Melton Carnegie Museum won two awards, while the 1620s House & Garden at Donington le Heath won in one category and was highly commended in another.

Dr John Sutton, a volunteer for the Century of Stories team,

won the category for best research project. He has digitised all the medical records of the Leicestershire Regiment during the First World War and made them accessible at the Record Office for Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland.

The awards were organised by the

Leicestershire and Rutland Heritage Forum and celebrate the wide range of excellent heritage projects going on in the two counties. This year, the awards ceremony was held at the Century Theatre in Coalville.

The first award was given to Melton Carnegie Museum for attracting new audiences, reflecting its work to engage under-fives with history and heritage in exciting new ways.

Minis are activity sessions which interpret the museum collections for very young children, using texture,

smell, colour and music to explore the displays in a fun and meaningful way.

The judges said they were delighted by the sessions, which they felt were a great model for all museums.

The 1620s House and Garden picked up a Highly Commended award for Volunteer Team of the Year, acknowledging the passion and commitment of more than 30 volunteers to bring the fully-furnished house and well stocked and labelled period garden to life for visitors.

Melton Carnegie Museum and the

1620s House & Garden were jointly awarded Museum of the Year. The unusual decision by the judges reflected the hard and innovative work at both sites to try new things, involve volunteers and attract new audiences.

Councillor Richard Blunt, the county council’s cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts, said: “Bringing our wonderful heritage to life and sharing it with diverse audiences is vital and a lot of hard work is done by our museums and heritage projects to find new and engaging way of doing this.

“For Melton Carnegie Museum, the 1620s House & Garden and the Century of Stories project to be honoured with these awards is a huge tribute to all the great work which is carried out at our heritage sites.”

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Page 21.

Are you festival ready?

Make sure you’ve had your measles jab With festival season and tramlines just around the corner Sheffield City Council are asking festival goers to make sure they have had their measles jab. The ask comes after concerns have been raised by Public Health England about an increase in measles cases across England, particularly in young people over the age of 15 years.

In 2016 there were 52 measles cases linked to music and arts festivals in England and Wales. Nearly half of these cases were in young people aged 15 to 19 years and several individuals who acquired measles at one festival subsequently attended another festival while infectious, resulting in multiple linked outbreaks. Greg Fell, Director

of Public Health at Sheffield City Council said: “Young people are more at risk of contracting measles when they are mixing in close environments, such as festivals. “Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can lead to serious complications and sometimes death. “Many 15-25 year olds may have missed out on the MMR vaccine when they were younger. It is important that if you are attending a festival this summer that you check with your GP that you have had two doses of the MMR vaccine.” Measles symptoms to be aware of include: • high fever • sore, red, watery eyes • coughing

• aching and feeling generally unwell • blotchy red rash Councillor Jackie Drayton, cabinet member for children and young people at Sheffield City Council said: “Sheffield enjoys one of the very best festival calendars in the country and we want to make sure everyone is able to enjoy them to the full this summer. Please make sure you check your vaccines are up to date – and have a great time!” If you are attending a festival this summer, our drugs and alcohol team advise: • There is no safe way to take drugs: the safest option is not to take them at all. However if you intend to use drugs, see http://www.drugwise.org.uk/harmreduction-2/ for safety advice.

• If you’re intending to drink alcohol: drink in moderation, alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks, choose lower strength options, and stay with your friends.

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Page 22.

Fire and Rescue personnel pay

tribute to 'The Bravest Man' Stefan Personnel from across Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service have been deeply saddened by the death of firefighter Stefan Hawcroft - ‘The Bravest Man’.

Stefan Hawcroft sadly passed away last Friday after 10 years’ service as a firefighter. He had been a Wholetime Firefighter at Lincoln South Fire Station for five years but also worked as an On-Call Firefighter at Dronfield

Fire Station in Derbyshire for 10 years.

29 year old Stefan had been battling an inoperable form of brain cancer for a number of years. Despite recently receiving specialist treatment overseas, supported by a fundraising campaign started by his family, Stefan sadly passed away last Friday.

Lincolnshire’s Chief Fire Officer Nick Borrill said: “Stefan was a wellknown, well respected and well-liked

member of the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue family.

“His fight against this rare form of cancer affected all of us and we were all keen to help in any way we could.

“Our thoughts remain with his wife Rebecca and his family members at this difficult time as well as those firefighters who worked with Stefan and knew him as a colleague and as a friend.”

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Gavin Tomlinson said: “Everyone who knew and worked with Stefan is deeply saddened by the news of his passing.

“The reaction we saw from crews across the whole of Derbyshire to help raise money for specialist treatment was unbelievable and a testament to how well Stefan was thought of within the Service.

“Our thoughts are with Stefan’s family at what I’m sure is an extremely difficult time, as well as the Firefighters from both Services who worked with him on a daily basis forming what would have been a unique bond.”

Top tips to stay well in a heatwave

Most advice on beating the heat is common sense. For some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks.So please keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer. If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support. In the meantime, here are some top tips from Public Health England: • Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions • Keep indoor spaces cooler, close curtains on rooms that face the sun to and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors • Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals • Apply sunscreen, It sounds simple but wear a hat and if you can walk in the shade. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm • If you’re on the coast, take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down • Avoid too much physical exertion, especially in the hottest parts of the day • Take water with you if you are travelling You can keep updated on the weather condition by visting the Met Office website.

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Page 23.

Alfie Boe to switch on

Blackpool Illuminations 2018

One of Lancashire’s greatest music talents is coming home – to switch on the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations. Actor and international singing star Alfie Boe, who was born in the resort and raised in neighbouring Fleetwood, will pull

the switch to trigger the start of the 2018 Illuminations season at the official Switch-On concert on the Tower Festival Headland on Friday 31 August. During the free four-hour show there will be performances by Ella Eyre, Jonas Blue, Diversity, DVJ

(Diversity Junior) and Club MTV DJs, R3wire and Varski in what is the coolest party in Blackpool’s calendar.

Alfie joins a long list of celebrities who have switched on the Blackpool Illuminations including Hollywood director Tim Burton, Robbie Williams,

Have your say on

Blackpool's new dog rules Residents are being invited to have their say on changes to dog control orders in Blackpool.

Existing dog control orders have now been automatically transferred by way of legislation to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPOs) for the enforcement of dog control in Blackpool, under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014. The proposals, put forward by Blackpool Council, will update the old dog control orders to improve both the lives of Blackpool residents and the visitors to the town.

Since 2010, Blackpool council have received over 12,000 dog-related enquiries; Blackpool Council want to encourage responsible dog ownership and educate and enforce where necessary.

The PSPOs differ slightly from the existing dogs on leads and dog exclusion byelaws as they will allow for the issuing of a fixed penalty notice up to the value of £100. Some of the new recommendations to be considered include limiting the number of dogs walked and exercised off lead and the provision of clean up bags to be carried at all times by dog walkers.

Residents and visitors are invited to express their views on the proposed PSPOs and provide feedback. The

results of the consultation will then be considered before any new PSPO is implemented.

Cllr Gillian Campbell, Blackpool Council Deputy Leader, said: “The majority of dog owners and walkers in Blackpool behave responsibly but we know from listening to residents that a small minority aren’t playing their part in helping keep it that way.

“Dog mess is unpleasant which, if not picked up, can pose a health risk

known as toxocariasis. “No decisions have been made as yet, so we are keen for as many people as possible to get involved in the consultation.”

All proposals will go to an eight week public consultation which opens on Tuesday 31 July and closes on Tuesday 25 September 2018.

More details on the proposed rules and how to have your say can be found at www.blackpool.gov.uk/ dogpspoconsultation

Peter Kay and Dame Barbara Windsor.

Last year, Diversity and the Star Trek franchise produced a unique collaboration to kick-start 66 nights of Illuminations in the resort.

As a young boy growing up on the coast, Alfie dreamed of a career as a singer. He was discovered singing in a mechanics garage where he worked and went on to conquer the world’s most prestigious stages. Alfie Boe is a two time Brit award and Silver Clef winner. He has had two number 1 albums as part of Ball & Boe alongside close friend Michael Ball, selling-out three UK tours and performing in their own prime time ITV specials.

The pair also appeared on last year’s Strictly Come Dancing episode in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

Cllr Gillian Campbell, Deputy Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We are thrilled that Alfie Boe has agreed to switch on the Blackpool Illuminations for 2018. He is an outstanding talent and we are very proud to welcome him home for what is our biggest night of the year.”

The Friday night celebration will start with a “Blackpool Introduces” showcase featuring the best of talent from across the Fylde Coast, prior to the start of the main show.

As last year, the Switch-On event will

be free, with people invited to apply for the 20,000 wristbands that will guarantee entry to the Tower Festival Headland arena. The wristband ballot closes at 9am on July 26. To register, go to: www.visitblackpool.com/ switchon.

For anyone interested in VIP packages for the night, please visit www. visitblackpool.com/switchon for all the details.

To view footage from the 2017 Blackpool Illuminations SwitchOn go to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=vUynQF7hXhY&t=15s.

We’ve still got all this to look forward to so save the dates in your diary: • Ride the Lights – 28 August between 7pm and 10pm – where we open up Blackpool Promenade to bikes to allow cyclists to ride through the resort’s famous Blackpool Illuminations FREE • Britney Spears in Blackpool – 1 September - International pop icon Britney Spears will be bringing her “Britney: Piece of Me” show to Blackpool’s Tower Festival Headland in a celebration of one of the most illustrious careers in music history!

For tickets go to https://www. ticketmaster.co.uk/britneyspears • Blackpool Illuminations and Lightpool – 31 August – 4 November

- Britain’s most spectacular light show returns to Blackpool Promenade for another year with Lightpool projections from 7th September – FREE! • The World Fireworks Championship Blackpool – 7/14/21/28 September – Blackpool plays host to the best fireworks display teams in the world with the competitors planning more dramatic and spectacular displays than ever before to wow the crowds - FREE • Nickelodeon SLIMEFEST – 20, 21 & 22 October – The Nickelodeon SLIMEFEST ticketed shows will take place on Saturday, Sunday and Monday at the Arena, Blackpool Pleasure The six shows across 3 days will feature live performances, games, characters and plenty of slime, music and mayhem! All shows sold out but check www.nick.co.uk/SLIMEFEST for competitions to win tickets.

• Lightpool Festival – 25–27 October Blackpool’s award-winning Lightpool Festival is back for October halfterm. The festival will provide a spectacular mix of live performance, light-based art installations, the return of the illuminated tram parade and a special collaboration with the BBC Philharmonic on 18 October.

For more information go to www. visitblackpool.com/lightpoolfestival

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Burnthebook help to prepare students for future careers A Derby City Council led project is helping to boost skills amongst young people in the city.

Year nine Engineering students at Derby Moor School have completed a brand design project with full service creative agency Burnthebook.

Burnthebook in Pride Park is part of the Derby City Enterprise Adviser Network, led by Derby City Council, to help young people develop employability skills and inspire their future career choices.

The company is also a Cornerstone employer – working as part of the Derby City Council and D2N2 programme to tackle social mobility under the city’s status as an Opportunity Area.

Students at Derby Moor were supported by the creative team at Burnthebook to develop the branding and packaging for a health drink.

They then pitched their products in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style presentation with the winning team awarded by the company with £50 vouchers and £25 each for two runners up.

Burnthebook Director Jackie Clarke explained: “As a Cornerstone employer and part of the Careers Enterprise Network, we were keen to work with Derby Moor Academy both for the benefit of the students and for our creative team here as part of their professional

development. Working with Miss Hill and her Year 9 group on understanding the meaning of branding and how it’s applied in a commercial sense has been a rewarding experience and has delivered very positive results.

Sharing our skills and knowledge with young people at this critical point in their educational journey, has highlighted the realities, challenges and opportunities of working in a creative environment.

I hope that this experience will help to shape their decisions when choosing

future options and career pathways.” Councillor Evonne Williams, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People commented: “Bringing employers into the classroom helps students make the link between what they do in lessons and the working world.

The ultimate aim is to raise aspirations and in doing so improve attainment. This is exactly what Burnthebook has been doing – working with the Technology teacher, Miss Hill to develop and deliver a curriculum project and engaging with our young people.”

If any other employers would be interested in developing a curriculum project with a local secondary school please email Jacqui Kinch, Enterprise coordinator for Derby City Council.

Public Protection Officers one year on It’s been one year since Derby City Council introduced a new team of Public Protection Officers (PPO’s) and began work in designated hot spot zones in the city to help tackle fly tipping, littering, dog fouling, bins on streets and other public nuisance offences.

In that year over 600 Fixed Penalty notices have been issued and 126 successful prosecutions with a range of fines from £40 – £716. In total around £58,000 has been paid in fines and court costs awarded to the Council. This money is fed back into

the Community Protection budgets to supplement the scheme.

The team of experienced PPO’s seconded from Nottingham City Council and supported by Environmental Protection officers, Neighbourhood Officers and Streetpride Officers have been making a real difference and helping clean up the streets of Derby. As well as the FPN’s the team have now issued over 2200 s46 bins on street notices and visited over 1200 reports of fly tipping.

A lot has changed since July 2017. The hot spot zones have been expanded. A

Public Space Protection Order has been introduced for the city centre and recently four new officers have started with the team bringing the team to nine. On the anniversary the team revisited Reeves Rd where the operation began to see the difference one year on and to talk to residents about how they have engaged in making changes in their community. Lead Officer Wayne Hobbs said: “We have been working with residents and landlords to make sure they understand where they stand legally on flytipping, littering and allowing their wheelie bin to block the streets. “We advised them that they should be keeping alleyways between houses clear of rubbish to allow the bins to be put away and where mobility problems are an issue, made sure that these people are exempted.

“Having more officers means we can cover bigger areas but also can be reactive to reports of rubbish nuisance such as fly-tipping.

We have moved over to Abbey now because we have been informed there is a particular problem there currently.

But it doesn’t mean we won’t be revisiting existing areas from time to time.” Plans are now being drawn up to expand the service we are looking at dealing with issues of fly posting, graffiti and potentially the distribution of free literature as well.

Councillor Matthew Holmes, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Public Protection said: “What we’ve been able to show this year is that targeted enforcement activity can make a real difference.

To help us build on the success of this first year, we need the continued support of our communities to ensure that this progress turns into long-term improvements for our streets and neighbourhoods.”

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Action Group pools

resources for Rolls-Royce staff

The second Rolls Royce Action Group meeting was held last week, with representatives from local unions, city and county Councils, Rolls-Royce, the Job Centre and DWP, Futures – National Careers Service, Talent Retention Solution, the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, Derby College, the Cities and Local Growth Unit, Marketing Derby, local MPs and more. Led by the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership in partnership with Derby City Council, the Action Group was formed last month after the announcement that Rolls-Royce was expected to restructure the company, and has been co-ordinating the local response to the restructuring programme. An estimated 4,600 jobs are expected to be cut globally over

the next two years. Corporate support and management roles will be the most affected. With those functions largely in the UK, it is predicted that around two thirds of job losses will be here in the UK, with the potential for up to 1,000 jobs to be lost in Derby’s facilities, subject to consultation with staff. The group is continuing its efforts to bring together resources and support to ensure that staff affected will be supported as the restructure progresses.

Matthew Wheatley, interim CEO at D2N2 said: “Retaining the talent and contribution of these highly skilled employees and other contractors will be vitally important.

We will be working with R-R, the Chamber of Commerce and other business organisations to help local

firms who may have vacancies or plan to recruit over the coming months to have access to this skilled talent pool.”

Councillor Chris Poulter, Leader at Derby City Council said: “Rolls-Royce is our biggest employer and this company makes a huge contribution to the East Midlands and UK economy. The company employs highly skilled staff and contractors and this Council will do whatever we can to ensure these people are retained locally. We will ensure they receive the best possible advice and support and we look forward to the close cooperation of managers at Rolls-Royce.” Paul Harris, Director of Economic Development at Rolls-Royce added: “Rolls-Royce is committed to supporting the work of the Action Group and appreciates the engagement from the wide range of partners involved. We will continue to work with the group to maximise the chances of those leaving Rolls-Royce finding suitable alternative employment in the region.”

Rolls-Royce is in the process of fully assessing the restructure, and has been working closely with employees throughout the process.

Derby Active’s new Atlantis Splash Run inflatable sessions launch this Wednesday at Queen’s Leisure Centre, as a new activity for the whole family to enjoy. This new aqua inflatable launches in time for the school summer holidays, and provides fun from all the family aged 5 and above. This amazing inflatable stretches the length of the Gala pool at Queen’s Leisure Centre and consists of giant obstacles for everyone to climb, scramble over and thrill seeking slides.

The Atlantis inflatable assault course is

modular, allowing a large combination of courses to try out. The total length of the full course stretches just over 20m, filling the 25m Gala pool.

From Wednesday 25th July families and friends can challenge each other to complete the Atlantis course. Atlantis Splash Run sessions will be running every Wednesday and Saturday during the school holidays, from 10:00am to 11:00am, 11:15am to 12:15pm and 12:30pm to 1:30pm on Wednesdays and 2:30pm to 3:30pm and 3:344:45pm on Saturdays.

Families can try out the Atlantis Splash Run for just £6 a session for adults, and £5 a session for children. Derby Active’s Under 8s Pool Policy applies during Atlantis Splash Run sessions, more details can be found online.

Find out more about the Atlantis

Splash Run and other swimming activities at Queen’s Leisure Centre at Derby Active’s website. Derby Active advises participants to arrive early or book in advance by calling 01332 641444

Amazing new inflatable assault course at Queen’s Leisure Centre

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Heritage and choice combine at Bingham’s thriving markets

With markets providing a popular draw for residents and visitors alike, Bingham’s Markets are no exception and its regular weekly general market and monthly Farmers’ market give shoppers choice aplenty at exceptionally

competitive prices.

The General Market is held every Thursday, come rain or shine on the Market Place in the heart of the

town and is an integral part of this thriving centre, with the magnificent Buttercross standing proudly at its centre, reminding all of Bingham’s local food heritage.

You can almost imagine the farmers’ wives chatting with their baskets of butter and cheese ready for sale under its cooling roof.

Fast forward 200 years and you will find a comprehensive mix of traders offering food, clothes, accessories and services.

There are plenty of interesting characters to meet. John Gale is one of the busy traders with a constant stream of customers eager to buy his superior fresh fish directly from Grimsby.

He has been standing on the market for many years and knows most of his customers by name and is a past master at providing plenty of market banter to keep the queue entertained.

It is the support of these helpful and friendly traders that keeps customers coming back time and time again.

The market offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere in which to shop, eat or just watch the world go by compared to the city centre’s hustle and bustle.

Surrounded by an excellent range of independent shops and eateries there is no lack of choice in the town and during the holidays you will find activities at the market for families to enjoy whilst they shop.

Local charities and organisations are also positively encouraged to attend to highlight their services and fundraise with prior notice at no cost.

The third Saturday of the month Bingham welcomes the Farmers’ Market to town.

Setting up on the Market Place this is where you will find producers of local food and drink selling their wares and it provides a truly local feel as nearly all the producers come from within a 30 mile radius.

The market currently offers a full range of meats, game in season, fresh fish, eggs, jams, flour, bread, cheeses, plants, vegetables, pies, cakes and coffee.

New traders bringing different commodities to increase the range of products on the markets are always very welcome.

For more information about opportunities at any of the Bingham markets please contact East Midlands Markets and Events on 07956 631683, email info@ emme.uk.com or call Rushcliffe Borough Council on 0115 914 8219 or email propertyservices@ rushcliffe.gov.uk

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Classic shows Following on from a record breaking two day event in May, Classic Shows returns to Thoresby Park on Bank Holiday Monday 27th August for the popular Notts Classic Car & Motorcycle Show. This family friendly event has been running for over 20 years and will feature 600+ vintage, classic and modern classic vehicles on display provided by a range of private owners and car clubs including the likes of Notts MG Owners Club, Jenson Owners Club, Mercedes-Benz Owners Club, Jaguar Enthusiasts Club, Stag Owners Club, RS Owners Club, Little John Classic Car Club, Notts About Minis, Robin Hood Minis and many more! There will be a special Mini & VW theme so in addition to a wide range of classics, expect to see a strong number of Minis and VWs on display. The event also includes a full vehicle concours, judging and presentation of awards overseen by Mercedes-Benz Club coordinator and leading classic vehicle enthusiast Richard Lee. Add to this 50+ trade and autojumble stalls, children’s entertainment and quality food and drink options – what’s not to like? Admission is just £9 per adult and £3 per child and tickets can either be purchased in advance via Classic Shows’ website or on the day at the admissions entrance. Visitors also benefit from full access to the Thoresby Park grounds and parking is free! Classic Shows’ director Matthew

J Harvey commented “After such a strong event in May, we are delighted to return to the stunning Thoresby Park for the Notts Classic Car & Motorcycle Show on Bank Holiday Monday 27 August.

This is always one of the most popular Classic Shows events and we regularly receive fantastic support from local exhibitors, traders and visitors. Exhibitors can benefit from a huge discount when booking no later than Friday 17 August and trade / autojumble pitches are available from just £30 when booked in advance.” If you wish to exhibit a vehicle in the event, then book in advance to benefit from a great discount. For further information on the event, to book a visitor ticket, exhibitor ticket or trade / autojumble space please refer to www.classicshows. org/ more information about tickets to the event can be found by phoning 01484 667776, emailing i n f o @ c l a s s i c s h o w s . o rg or by visiting http://www. classicshows.org/nottsclassic-car-motorcycleshow-monday-27thaugust-2018/.

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Latest call to parents Clinical pharmacists in general practice for funded free childcare improve patient care new report finds

Parents and carers of three and four year olds are being invited to find out if they are eligible for more funded free childcare for the coming autumn term.

All working parents with children aged three and four are now entitled to 30 hours a week, 1,140 hours a year. By helping with childcare costs, parents are now able to consider returning to work and/or increase the hours they currently work. The Government states that people must earn at least £120 a week and that each parent must not earn £100,000 or more a year.

People could still be eligible if they or their partner is on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, are unable to work if they have a disability or caring responsibilities. Single parents can also apply. Parents of children born before 1st September 2015 can apply anytime up to the August 31 cut-off date, but we would advise that they apply before the end of July to be sure of receiving a code in time to start the autumn term. Councillor Boyd Elliott, Vice-Chairman of the Children and Young People’s Committee, at

Nottinghamshire County Council said: “It is coming up to the time of year that parents need to apply for September and the funding does help to reduce the financial burden of childcare.

“Nottinghamshire also has an excellent provision of Ofsted registered childcare providers providing a lot of choice and quality childcare for parents and carers.”

For more information and to find out your eligibility visit: Childcare choices. Successful applicants will then receive a code which they then take to their chosen childcare provider as soon as possible. Funded free childcare places are available at a range of early years settings including nursery schools, day nurseries, pre-schools and childminders. For a list of the early years settings included in the Nottinghamshire Directory of Providers, visit: www. nottshelpyourself.org.uk Those applying late last year were unable to take up their extended hours until the following term – so please don’t delay.

Priority Lift Services Ltd – Local Stairlift Company Based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire we are a family run company specialising in the installation, repair and servicing of stairlifts across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

The decision to install a stairlift is often a very difficult one to make, but when compared with the alternative of moving, or only living on one level of their home, many people have found a stairlift to be their preferred solution.

The idea of deciding which stairlift is right for you, and having it fitted, can be a daunting one, however they can usually be fitted in a couple of hours and we promise to help and guide you every step of the way.

Having gone through rigorous checks to become members of Checkatrade, Age UK and Trusted Trader it means you are putting your worries in safe hands. We are a husband and wife team with hundreds of very happy

customers. Jon has nearly 20 years’ experience in the installation, repair and servicing of all makes and models of stairlifts. Sarah has years of experience in customer care - putting customers at ease in a caring and sympathetic way – we 100% promise no pushy sales talk.

Together we work hard to maintain our reputation for quality, reliability and safety and pride ourselves on our levels of after-sales care. Our commitment to your safety and needs coupled with our outstanding customer service and 24hr response line means that we’ll have you moving again in no time.

If you want to find out more, please give us a call on 0115 8492386 or visit our website www.priorityliftservices. co.uk – we would love to hear from you.

Clinical pharmacists should be an integral part of general practice, according to a new independent report.

The NHS England funded report, undertaken by experts from the School of Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham, supported by patient representatives and colleagues from the University of Queensland, Australia showed that clinical pharmacists significantly increase patient appointment capacity and reduce pressure on GPs. More than 490 clinical pharmacists were placed in over 650 practices across England in the pilot project which supports the aim of having over 2,000 clinical pharmacists working in general practice by 2020/21 – a ratio of one per 30,000 patients.

The research team investigated the work of the newly created clinical pharmacist roles from the perspectives of the pharmacists, those working immediately with them in their roles, professional stakeholders and patients.

These were evaluated in a range of ways including; observational studies,

one to one interviews with staff and patients, patient focus groups and case study site visits.

Medication reviews A key area where the clinical pharmacists made a significant impact was medication reviews which often accounted for significant amount of their workload. They undertook these on a regular basis, releasing capacity for GP’s and alleviating appointment issues. As part of these reviews they were able to provide invaluable medicines education and usage advice to patients, in particular those with long term health conditions including; diabetes, asthma and heart disease, which led to increased medication understanding and adherence. Where appropriate they were also able to deprescribe medicines, which has potential for positive health and cost saving benefits.

Dr Matthew Boyd, Associate Professor in Patient Safety and Pharmacy Practice at the University of Nottingham, led the research and said: “Clinical Pharmacists have made

a unique and valuable contribution to the primary care skill mix and for the first time as part of this study have become an embedded member of the practice at scale. They contribute significantly to patient safety, bring medicines and prescribing expertise and support with prescribing tasks and provide support for patients with long term conditions including support for healthy lifestyles.

“Managing the medication for long term conditions takes up a large portion of GP time and is a key area where clinical pharmacists made a significant impact. Patients provided the evaluation team with examples of the benefits of time spent with the pharmacist in the practice including greater understanding of their medicines, improved ability and willingness to take their medicines and a feeling of individual value.”

Dr Boyd continues: “Throughout the process of putting together this report we repeatedly came across examples of the positive impact the clinical pharmacists were having on

patient outcomes. Patients told us they understood their medicines in a way they never had, and were now trying to follow lifestyle advice to help manage their health conditions such as diabetes and had improved conditions following a medication review. Now we know the positive impact this new pharmacist role can have we need to ensure robust education and training is in place to respond to this new career path.”

Dr Keith Ridge, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS England said “Clinical pharmacists in general practice are playing an important role in the NHS – they are helping GPs to manage demands on their time, they upskill the wider practice team about medicines and crucially, they are providing better outcomes and quality of life for patients, especially elderly patients and those with chronic illnesses. The report’s recommendations are timely and we are confident that the benefits of the programme will continue across more GP practices, as we continue the rollout of the programme.”

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Care provided by specialist cancer nurses helps improve life

expectancy of patients with lung cancer, says new study A new study looking at the picture of lung cancer care in England finds that patients with lung cancer experience significantly better outcomes in terms of life expectancy, avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions and managing the effects of treatment when cared for by specialist lung cancer nurses. The research, entitled Can nurse specialist working practices reduce the burdens of lung cancer? was presented at the National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS) conference on 21 June 2018.

The work looked at diagnoses between 2007 and 2011 and was undertaken by academics at The University of Nottingham and London South Bank University (LSBU) and funded by the charity, Dimbleby Cancer Care.

The research team used anonymised patient healthcare records available from Public Health England and a nationwide survey of lung cancer nurse specialists (LCNS), analysing more than 100,000 people with lung cancer and more than 200 nurses across England. The findings, which have yet to be peer-reviewed, indicate that radiotherapy and chemotherapy patients have a lower risk of early death or emergency admission once they have received an assessment and care from a lung cancer nurse specialist (LCNS), particularly if contact began at the time of diagnosis.

Patients within this sample receiving radiotherapy treatment for their cancer were 17 per cent less likely to die in the first year when assessed by a lung cancer nurse specialist than those not assessed, while chemotherapy patients had a reduced mortality risk where nurses reported confidence in working with multi-disciplinary teams.

Patient outcomes These findings also significantly provide an evidence-base for workforce policies governing delivery of the Government’s Cancer Strategy for the UK. The strategy currently faces significant challenges posed by a lack of a substantial specialist cancer workforce. The advanced practice specialist nursing workforce is known to improve patient satisfaction and care quality, but little is currently known about their impact on patient outcomes. The results of this study show the importance of the timing of LCNS assessment. Early LCNS assessments were associated with a lower risk of emergency cancer admissions for surgical patients, and for those who did not receive anticancer therapy, for example those receiving palliative care, this was also associated with proactive management of symptom issues. The results of this study elucidate areas in lung cancer care where improvement could be made, and identify opportunities to lessen the burdens lung cancer places on healthcare resources and individuals with lung cancer.

Presenting his findings at the Public Health England (PHE) Cancer Services, Data and Outcomes Conference 2018, Assistant Professor Iain Stewart, of The University of Nottingham, said: “A cancer diagnosis is a life-changing moment and

guidelines recognise the importance of specialist nurse support for those individuals. We are grateful to be able to use patient records from across the country, which demonstrated that timely nurse involvement and effective multidisciplinary team working can lead to a quantifiably better life with cancer. It is essential that workforces are empowered to deliver the best care.”

Tangible benefit Professor Alison Leary, Chair of Healthcare Workforce Modelling, London South Bank University (LSBU), said: “This work shows the real tangible benefit of advanced practice nursing in cancer. It is clear that receiving care from a lung nurse specialist is fundamental to better outcomes for patients and families.

Patients with lung cancer nurse specialists not only had a lower risk of dying, but also had a lower risk of being admitted to hospital unnecessarily.”

Vanessa Beattie, Chair of the National Lung Cancer Forum for Nurses said: “The National Lung Cancer Forum for Nurses (NLCFN) welcome the research undertaken confirming the benefits to patients who have access to a lung cancer nurse specialist (LCNS). This work demonstrates that LCNS are pivotal in the care for patients and are at the frontline of cancer care. An increase in the LCNS workforce is required in order

to continue to deliver the high quality care of which is reflected in this work.” Dimbleby Cancer Care was set up in 1966 in memory of broadcaster Richard Dimbleby and is based at Guy’s Cancer Centre in Southwark, London. It provides practical and psychological support to people living with cancer and to their families and carers. The charity runs the UK wide online directory of support services www.cancercaremap.org which helps people locate care and support services in their local area wherever they are in the UK and has its own information and support centres at Guy’s Cancer Centre and Queen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup. The Dimbleby Cancer Care Research Fund awards has awarded over £2.7million in funding since 2004 to research projects looking at all aspects of cancer care.

Jonathan Dimbleby, broadcaster and Chair of Dimbleby Cancer Care said: “This is an invaluable piece of research which shows the real need for a one to one support system can make to an individual’s prognosis. Through the work Dimbleby Cancer Care does we know the damaging impact cancer can have not just on the individual but also on the network of support that surrounds that person. By developing a system by which everyone diagnosed has access to a cancer nurse specialist has clear benefits for all. Everyone deserves the opportunity to receive the very best care possible.”

Oakdale Care Group

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GP exchange aims to improve primary care training in UK and China A unique collaboration between the UK and China is set to benefit GPs of the future – and their patients – by identifying the real challenge of Chinese GP training system and driving forward improvements in clinical training. This unique project, being led by academics and educators at the University of Nottingham is using the experiences of patients, educators and trainee doctors themselves to recommend improvements to primary care training in both countries. Different from other ‘training China’s GP’ programmes, the project team undertook a 4 month in-depth exchanges in Nottingham and Ningbo, providing a detailed understanding from the grassroots level. And, it is hoped, it will assist in addressing the serious shortage of GPs in China, which has been a focus of

Government healthcare policy in the country in recent years.

The UK and China share a number of public health challenges, particularly chronic diseases in an ageing population, such as diabetes, dementia, heart conditions and respiratory conditions. Furthermore, how to attract the right medical students to enter the GP training system strategically is always difficult and not well addressed.

The partnership between the Evidence Based Healthcare Centre at University of Nottingham Ningbo Campus (UNNC), Health Education England, the national leadership organisation for education, training and workforce development in the health sector, and Ningbo First Hospital is to help equip new general practitioners to meet these challenges and provide the highest

standards of care. The initiative – the first of its kind in the world - is being led

by Dr Prit Chahal, Honorary Assistant Professor in the School of Medicine at the University of Nottingham and Associate Postgraduate Dean at Health Education England. Dr Chahal said: “China has recognised that one very effective way of improving its wider healthcare would be by developing its primary care system. It is now looking to the UK as a model on which it can base the training of the general practitioners who will be crucial in delivering that system.

“However, the impact of this research is going to be felt in both countries – there are things about our system of training which could also be improved, so it’s about an exchange of ideas with the ultimate aim of raising the quality of healthcare for the

ordinary citizens of both countries.” In China, only 15 per cent of doctors are general practitioners, compared to the UK where around half of doctors who qualify become family doctors. But looking behind the numbers, there are cultural barriers that the project will be also be looking to overcome, in line with Government reforms aimed at tackling the issues. Compared to their UK counterparts, Chinese GPs have very low status – both among their patients and their healthcare peers – and are comparatively poorly paid.

Many current medical degrees do not include general practice training but, as a result of current attitudes, of those doctors who do train as GPs only a small percentage ever go into practice.

Many patients have little confidence in GPs and an ingrained mistrust of local clinics, which often suffer from a chronic shortage of qualified doctors, preferring instead to bypass these and go straight to the hospital. As a result, these are ay crisis point and are struggling to cope with the numbers coming through their doors.

Government backing In recent years, the Chinese Government has been driving the development and transformation of its healthcare service, with a particular focus on enhancing primary care. It has committed to increasing access for the Chinese population with a goal of two to three general practitioners per 10,000 people or 300,000 by 2020, and to five general practitioners per 10,000 people or 700,000 by 2030.

In 2016, an Expert Committee for Education and Training of General Practitioners supported by the Ministry

of Health, under the administration of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association, was established. Its remit is to provide advice on policies relating to the education and training of GPs in China, to establish basic standards and the evaluation of GP training and to inspect training centres. As part of this national landscape, the NottinghamNingbo initiative is aiming to play a key role in helping to drive up standards in general practitioner training and education and has developed an exchange programme for GP educators. This programme will be focus on quality and capacity building, rather than numbers of training participants, which will help the local hospitals to build up its GP training system organically.

Two GP educators from Ningbo First Hospital spent two months in England interviewing their British counterparts, trainee doctors and patients and UK educators have recently repeated the process in China.

Dr Chahal added: “We have seen there is an open door spirit in terms of Ningbo colleagues wanting to help trainees to become the best doctors they can be by developing first class education and training programmes, which is encouraging and fills us with optimism for the future.

“The partnership is already starting to deliver some promising results – we have recently had a meeting with the senior medical chief at Ningbo First Hospital and offered an outline of some quick-win, short-term gains that could be implemented fairly swiftly and some longer term plans that could start to bear fruit within one to five

years.” This programme may also open up opportunities for UK healthcare organisations and businesses who want to enter the China market.

Dr Huang Kai, the project member from Ningbo First hospital said: “This new exchange model enabled young general practitioners from both countries to learn through the real world experience, significantly deepening their understandings of both systems and improving primary care training.” Dr Ruan Liemin, Director of Ningbo First Hospital added: “This exchange is just a start, we hope more general practitioners from Nottingham and Ningbo could obtain valuable experience and knowledge through this collaboration platform in the future.” The Evidence Based Healthcare Centre was established at UNNC back in 2015, with the support of the Ningbo Healthcare and Family Planning Committee.

It comes as part of a wider initiative, Nottingham Health China led by the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences launched in 2016, which is working to increase the amount and quality of research taking place between UK and Chinese healthcare institutions by forging new relationships between UK and Chinabased researchers and clinicians. A number of healthcare initiatives are being developed at different stages including lung cancer and hearing science.

It is focusing on a number of topics including nursing and midwifery, mental health, medical education, healthcare software, epidemiology and other key areas of need.

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Residential care should you choose to stay at home instead?

Staying at home instead of going in to a care home is becoming a more popular option. Discovering that an individual requires additional care support can be a distressing and difficult time for all involved. Often when care needs are less intensive however there are alternative options available, and residential care can be delayed or could even become unnecessary.

The biggest question initially facing individuals requiring care and their families often concerns the choice between residential care, and remaining at home instead. Both have advantages and disadvantages, and both have different financial implications. This can make it difficult to choose which is going to be best for you in the short and long term.

In this article we help you to decide whether you are more suited to residential care, or if perhaps you are able (and would be more comfortable) remaining in your own home instead.

What is residential care? Residential care is care offered in a specialist establishment in which the individual lives permanently. Usually those in residential care have their own room and bathroom, although they have their meals made for them and wouldn’t normally be able (or expected) to cook for themselves. The amount of independence you have available will depend on the establishment you’re in, and the state of your health.

Some residential homes are happy

for residents to come and go as they please, provided they are fit and well enough to do so.

Residential care is best suited to people who find it difficult to live independently in their own homes.

This could perhaps be due to mobility issues, Dementia, mental health problems or a combination of health concerns. Usually those in residential care are unable to live alone without supervision, which is why they are living in a specialised environment which provides the care and support they need. How is residential care different to nursing care?

Residential care caters for lower level care needs compared with nursing care. Nursing care provides specialist medical assistance and staff include trained nurses in each team to facilitate this and aid with medical emergencies should they arise. Residential care homes offer a range of support, including personal care (feeding, washing, dressing and toileting) and general companionship, activities and provision of trips out and general personal maintenance like hair cuts. They can cater for individuals with low-level care needs and more advanced care needs. If you have been told that you require nursing care, your options involving staying at home instead may be limited. This is something you can discuss with your GP or social worker. What does care at home instead involve?

When you choose to access care at home instead of residential care you are able to remain in the property you live now. You will be able to access the care support you need, but carers will visit you in your home. You may need to invest in equipment to help you to live independently which complements your care package (for example a stair lift or ground floor bathroom). Carers are usually experienced and/or qualified to do their job. Some may be nurses or healthcare assistants – the level of qualification will depend on your care needs and the company you choose.

Care at home instead can offer most of the things residential care offers.

Should you need assistance getting up in the morning and getting ready to go to bed, home carers can provide this support. They can also carry out errands and essentials like shopping and housework. The scope of care provided is broad, making staying at home instead a suitable and viable option for lots of people.

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Fast-track your career

into the healthcare profession

…work as a phlebotomist!

An increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals has led to a shortage of allied healthcare workers, especially phlebotomists the skilled healthcare professionals who take your blood. Demand is at an all-time high with hospitals, clinics and GP Surgeries offering a golden opportunity for that “longed for” career change! If you have good people skills and manual dexterity, and like the idea of working in a busy healthcare environment, a phlebotomist job may be just the job for you! Many people enter this profession when they are looking for a career change or a fresh start and they often have no previous qualifications or experience in healthcare. Phlebotomists can work part time (usually mornings) but also may choose to work full time as well as weekends, holidays and bank work.

Blood samples are usually collected before mid-day and then analysed in your local hospital’s Path Lab in the afternoon. “We train people from all walks of life and all ages” explains Lauren, Geopace office manager.

“We’ve had school leavers, shop assistants, receptionists, beauticians and dental nurses, as well as telesales staff, unemployed and the retired who are looking for a challenge. We also have referrals from JobCentres, who can sometimes fund your course in full” says Lauren. Once you are on the healthcare career ladder there are often opportunities to progress into other areas, such as working in the hospital path lab or other departments.

Promotion is much easier once you are “on the ladder” and have some experience behind you. Many Geopace students are now working as phlebotomists throughout the UK and a few have even chosen to work abroad where there is often a similar shortage and growing demand for this specialised skill. An interesting booklet featuring student’s “Success Stories” is written by the student’s themselves and looks at how they have made the move from wide and varied backgrounds to find themselves now working as phlebotomists. A copy can be downloaded from the Geopace website’s testimonials page.

If you like the idea of a challenging career in healthcare and particularly

in phlebotomy then this may be the perfect move for you! The comprehensive training course last a full two days and culminates in the award of a nationally recognised and accredited certificate. “We practice taking blood from artificial arms”, says Lauren “and everyone on our course has a lot of fun! We get a great deal of satisfaction later on when we hear from our students that they are working for their local GP surgery or in their local hospital.” If you would like to know more about phlebotomy as a career or to book a place on the course visit Geopace Training’s website at www.geopace.com

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Primary school praised

for having a ‘big heart’ A Nottingham primary school has been praised for creating a ‘welcoming and warm’ atmosphere for children. Ofsted inspectors said Forest Fields Primary and Nursery was ‘a big school with an even bigger heart’ following their visit in July. The education watchdog highlighted the positive way in which the school on Berridge Road creates a stable learning environment for children from diverse backgrounds, with a constantly changing local population in Forest Fields. Awarding a judgment of ‘Good’ to the school, inspectors said: “Pupils, parents and staff are proud of their school.

They appreciate the happy, friendly environment, and all enjoy coming to school.”

In particular, the inspectors highlighted: • Most pupils start the school unable to speak English, but swiftly helped to acquire basic English to enable them to access the curriculum • Teachers and other adults who work in the school have high aspirations for the children. Pupils’ positive attitudes to learning ensure that lessons are

productive • Most pupils in school are making strong progress • Inspectors saw many examples of collaborative learning and pupils thinking creatively about the task they had been assigned • Members of the governing body have a wide range of skills to enhance the leadership of the school Inspectors added that the school, which was previously rated as ‘Good’, has a ‘knowledgeable and committed leadership team that understands the complexities of the school and has the necessary skills to drive further improvement’. Commenting on the report, Forest Fields Head Teacher Sue Hoyland said: “I’m pleased that the inspectors have recognised the huge effort we make to ensure children feel settled, safe and happy in our school.

Creating a welcoming environment for learning is essential, especially with such diversity in our community.

We believe this a real strength: the fact that children speak 52 different languages at Forest Fields Primary is something to celebrate. Inclusion

is at the centre of everything we do, meeting the varied needs of our pupils and ensuring that they all make good progress from their different staring points.

“I’m especially pleased that praise from parents is also reflected in the report. We will continue to work closely with parents, governors and our wider community to ensure our children receive a high quality education and are at the heart of everything we do.”

Cllr Neghat Khan, Portfolio Holder for Education and Skills in Nottingham, said: “Our city has some fantastic schools and I am pleased that Forest Fields Primary continues to be rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted. This is down to hard work from staff, pupils, and governors. They should all be so proud of their hard work and dedication.

“We are committed to ensuring children in Nottingham have access to high-quality education. The council is working closely with partners from across the city to ensure that every child goes to a school that is rated as ‘Good’ or better.”

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Nottingham animal-lovers

raise over £2k for poorly pets Mansfield Woodhouse animal-lovers Teegan Hughes and Tina Sherwood recently held a successful evening of live music and entertainment, raising £2,100 for sick and injured pets in Nottingham.

Teegan (31), who has a complex learning disability and autism, refuses to let her disability hold her back and was moved to support PDSA after the charity provided life-saving surgery on her beloved greyhound, Foxy. The dog’s injuries were so severe she had to have her leg amputated.

Tina Sherwood (60), Teegan’s mother, said: “Teegan was determined to give something back to PDSA following the invaluable care Foxy received at Nottingham PDSA. Both of Teegan’s three-legged dogs, Foxy and Fudge, provide her with a huge amount of

love and companionship so it meant a lot to be able to give something back to the charity.” The evening consisted of live music, burlesque dancers, stilt walkers and a guest appearance from Paw Patrol, alongside a whole host of entertainment for all the family, ending with a spectacular flash mob.

Tina added: “We were fortunate enough to have been surrounded by amazingly generous support; and we were able to leave people with a night to remember. Raising well over £2,000 for PDSA was the icing on the cake.”

The money raised at the event will help fund Nottingham’s PDSA Pet Hospital, which treats over 65,000 pets in need every year, costing over £1 million annually. Colin Wallace, Area Veterinary Manager at PDSA, said: “We’re so grateful to have the

support of Teegan and Tina who held this fantastic event. Their support will mean vulnerable pets have the vital treatment they need. It was a brilliant event to be part of and we’d like to say a huge thank you.”

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Ricoh Women's British Open Preview

AUGUST FOOTBALL

FIXTURES Nottingham Forest

4th – BRISTOL CITY – 3PM TUES 7TH – WEST BROM – 7:45PM 11TH – READING – 3PM 14TH – BURY – 7:30PM (Carabao Cup) 18TH – WIGAN ATH – 3PM 25TH – BIRMINGHAM CITY – 5:30PM

NOTTS COUNTY

4TH – COLCHESTER – 3PM 11TH – CAMBRIDGE UTD – 3PM 14TH – MIDDLESBOROUGH – 7:45PM (Caraboa Cup) 17TH – YEOVIL – 7:45PM 21ST – NEWPORT COUNTY- 7:45PM 25TH – LINCOLN CITY – 3PM

MANSFIELD TOWN

4TH – NEWPORT COUNTY – 3PM 11TH – YEOVIL TOWN – 3PM 14TH – ACCRINGTON STANLEY – 7:45PM 18TH – COLCHESTER UTD – 3PM 21ST TRANMERE ROVERS – 7:45PM 25TH – MACCLESFIELD TOWN – 3PM

CHARLEY HULL heads the home challenge as a world-class field prepares to tackle Royal Lytham with the Women's British Open tile at stake.

Ladies Scottish Open winner and US Open champion Ariya Jutanugarn heads the field World No. 1 and 2015 champion Inbee Park heads the field of the world’s best women golfers along with all of the year’s major winners.

The great Inbee Park, Pernilla Lindberg, the ANA Inspiration winner, and Sung Hyun Park, the KPMG Women’s PGA champion, are joined by defending champion, I.K. Kim and a host of former champions, including Mo Martin, Yani Tseng, Karrie Webb and 2009 winner Catriona Matthew, who was the last home-grown champion.

Inbee Park, who won her seventh and most recent major at the 2015 Ricoh Women’s British Open at Turnberry, said: “I love playing links golf and am really looking forward to returning to Royal Lytham. I feel like I have learnt so much about how to play on links courses since I played there in 2009

that I am excited to see how I get on there this time.

When I won at Turnberry, I felt so proud as to how I handled the wind and the difficult conditions, and now, as I look ahead to the Ricoh Women’s British Open, I am actually enjoying the thought of all the challenges ahead.”

Crowd favourite Hull is the top ranked British player in the field at No.23 in the world and her form in 2018 will lead to high hopes for spectators looking for a home player to follow in Matthew’s footsteps at Lytham having finished in the top 10 in all three of the majors this year.

Hull said: “Majors suit my game and I always really look forward to them. I like the pressure of a major week and the way the courses are set up tougher which I think suits me.I am pleased with my form the first six months of the year as it is my best spell on the LPGA so far. I feel my game is in great shape and I can’t wait for my next major opportunity at Lytham.”

There is also sure to be plenty of interest in the performance of Bronte Law, another young English golfer who has shown some sparkling form on the LPGA Tour this season.

“In my last major, the KPMG, I was

right up in contention, and I expect nothing less at the Open. You go into every event hoping to win, and I see myself as a good links golfer. If the wind blows, anything can happen.

A lot of these girls have never seen a course like Royal Lytham before, and being able to play links golf isn’t something you can get overnight. That one shot can make all the difference; whether or not you take out that 60 degree [wedge] or your putter could be the difference between winning and not and that’s what I love about links golf. You have to use your imagination.”

Sadly, Lexi Thompson, of the United States, will not be playing, having announced that she needs time out to “recharge my batteries”. In a social media post, the 23-year-old American said the past 18 months have taken a “tremendous toll” on her. In March, Thompson said she still had nightmares about the four-stroke penalty which cost her victory at the ANA Inspiration in April 2017.

“I realised recently that I need to take some time to work on myself,” she wrote on Instagram. “I am therefore taking this time to recharge my mental batteries, and to focus on myself away from the game of professional golf.”

Thompson said she hopes to return to defend her title at the Indy Women in Tech Championship, which starts on August 16. She was left in tears after being penalised while leading the

final round of the ANA Inspiration, although the incident prompted a rule change. She lost the play-off to Ryu Soyeon. “The events of the past year and a half [on and off the golf course] have taken a tremendous toll on me both mentally and emotionally,” Thompson said. “It is extremely difficult for me not to play in this prestigious major.”

Ladies Day is looming!

Southwell Racecourse’s Ladies Day is now just over a fortnight away, with lots to look forward to as well as the racing itself!

As ever, it is the highlight of the local social calendar, with many groups of people once again making their annual pilgrimage to the racecourse for this day.

From gates opening at 11am on the day, there will be many different sights and sounds around the racecourse keeping the spectators entertained, starting off with the roaming band on the day who will be performing around the racecourse before making their way to the main stage to continue performing.

There are a whole host of different food and drink outlets on the day itself, including the new pizza outlet on the ground floor of the Grandstand.

With first race currently scheduled for 2.20pm, there is plenty of time for people to get here, either by car, on one of the shuttle bus services being run from Southwell or Newark courtesy of Travel Wright or by train using the improved Sunday service. If you are coming to the racecourse via taxis, then the course strongly recommends that you pre-book your return journey as there is not a taxi rank at the course.

There is seven fantastic jumps races scheduled, one of which is Southwell’s richest race of the year, the inspireracingclub.co.uk Handicap Chase.

Later on in the afternoon, as ever with Ladies Day, there is a best dressed competition, with prizes to the first, second and third including a huge range of ten prizes to the winner. The winners are announced on the main stage after the last race at 5.30pm.

There is also live music on the main stage, following on from the best dressed competition, from ABBA Arrival, who will be entertaining racegoers till around 7.15pm in the evening.

Last year, nearly 9000 people came to this social highlight of the year, so don’t miss out this year!

There are still plenty of packages and tickets available, so head to www. southwell-racecourse.co.uk or call 01636 814481 now.

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Watch The Reds from the best seat in the house Nottingham Forest hospitality is the best way to see The Reds in action and matchday packages for the 201819 season are now on sale. Hospitality guests will watch Aitor Karanka's new-look side from the best seats in The City Ground and packages are now available for all games including the opening home match of the season against West Bromwich Albion, the New Year's Day clash with Leeds United and the East Midlands derby on Saturday 23rd February. Whether you're looking to network with clients or relax with friends and family, sit back and let Nottingham Forest play host to a truly memorable sporting occasion.

With hospitality beginning three hours pre-match and until up to one hour postmatch, you have ample time to immerse yourself in the full Forest experience.

Adult prices start from just £40 (+VAT) and a full list of package options can be found by visiting the club's commercial website https://www.nottinghamforest. co.uk/commercial/ In addition to the above, all hospitality areas will be open for the pre-season friendly against Premier League side AFC Bournemouth (Saturday 28th July, kick-off 3pm) and all packages are now available to purchase.

Supporters are also reminded that seasonal hospitality packages are still available and these will allow guests to watch the drama of the entire 2018-19 season in the very best of company.

For more detailed information and prices, or to book, please call the commercial team on 0115 982 4450 or email hospitality@nottinghamforest. co.uk.

Honorary doctorate for Colin Slater The Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters has been conferred on Colin Slater, the club’s honorary vice-president, by the University of Nottingham.

During the ceremony the oration, read by Professor Nick Miles, referred to Colin as 'an illustrious sports commentator' and praised his 'long and committed contribution to many causes and charities in the city and county.'

He concluded by saying: “I present Colin Slater as eminently worthy to receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Letters," before vice-chancellor, Professor Shearer West, conferred the degree.

Colin said: "It came as a great, albeit very pleasant, surprise, to receive a letter informing me that the Council and Senate of the University of Nottingham wished to confer on me this degree.

“I hope all my friends at Notts County will share my pleasure that the citation, which was read to a huge assembly in the David Ross Sports Village on the university campus, included reference to my 50 years behind the microphone reporting on the club for BBC Radio Nottingham - 'a truly remarkable record,' it was said."

Notts chairman and owner Alan Hardy added: "This comes as yet more thoroughly-deserved recognition of Colin's achievements.

"We're tremendously proud of him and look forward to welcoming him back to the club in his role of honorary vice-president when the new season gets going on Saturday."

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