Nottingham Now 23

Issue. 23 - Mar - 2020 0115 6972670 | www.nottingham-now.co.uk | sales@nottingham-now.co.uk

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE: MOTHER’S DAY - EASTER - WHAT’S ON - WEDDINGS - CARE

City Councillors call for an end to

funding unfairness as they agree

£15.6m savings after more Government cuts Nottingham City councillors have approved a range of service changes and a Council Tax increase, which includes the Government’s adult social care precept to achieve overall savings of £15.6m in next year’s budget.

The budget was agreed at a meeting of the Council on Monday 9th March following public consultation on the proposals.

The budget is being set against the backdrop of the City Council having its Government funding slashed by three-quarters over the past decade. This means that to keep on meeting the growing demand for care services to look after the elderly – now by far the biggest single cost to the council – Council Tax will have to go up by 1.99% with an additional 2% Government adult social care precept.

Innovating, doing things differently and making further efficiencies has helped to reduce the level of service cuts needed, but the significant savings required will be met through a range of changes, including increasing fees and charges for a number of paid-for services, making changes to the ‘Local Link Bus’ network, delivering an alternative operating model for Nottingham Tennis Centre, closing some ‘super loos,’ and introducing a new chargeable mid-winter garden waste collection.

Register to vote to have your say at the Police and Crime Commissioner election

see page 2..

Prospective Candidate Briefing for Police and Crime Commissioner

Photo by Robin Macey Portfolio Holder for Finance, Cllr Sam Webster said: “The Government is expecting us to increase Council Tax to pay for the cost of care services for elderly people – that’s why Council Tax is going up again. It’s not the right way to fund such vital services – we need proper policies and adequate funding from Government to address the national crisis we face in caring for people in their old age. The Government has so far failed to come up with a proper plan to fund care services across the country.

“The lack of adequate

Government funding for local services means that we’re having to make savings of another £15.6m in this budget, but the Council Tax increase only brings in just above £4m.

“This scale of Government funding cuts has never happened before.

In Nottingham we receive over £100m less per year than we did in 2013. Despite repeated promises from Government of a new plan to fund care services nothing has changed.

The vast bulk of our funding is now spent on care services for vulnerable children and older people with care needs.

These are vital services that thousands of our residents rely on every day.

“Councils up and down the country now have no choice but to raise council tax, increase charges and make further service reductions to try to close the funding gap. Not only that but funding cuts are not being applied fairly with Nottingham households losing £529 while wealthier Surrey has seen its spending power actually rise by £19. After nine years of ignoring this problem it is urgent that Government puts forward a fair system, new money and a new policy to fund care for the elderly.”

The full set of savings is included in the report to the Council meeting, which is available at item 85 here: https://committee. nottinghamcity.gov.uk/ieListDocuments. aspx?CId=177&MId=7979&Ver=4

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Big Investment for Rough Sleeping Initiatives

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County Council outlines plans to build on UK-leading bus services in Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire County Council has outlined plans to build on our area’s awardwinning bus services and deliver further improvements for residents from 2020 onwards. The plans, which include two pilot schemes, will inform a full review of services in other parts of the county. The first pilot scheme will introduce a flexible ‘taxi-bus’ service, to serve the villages of Colston Bassett, Owthorpe and Upper Saxondale. This service will replace the 850/852 and provide these villages with an on-demand service to various destinations when needed, like Bingham Market on Thursdays. The taxi-bus will be introduced in AprilMay 2020. A second pilot scheme, providing evening services to Mansfield town centre from Ladybrook and Oak Tree, was introduced in December 2019. The service runs for three days a week, to support the Mansfield town centre evening and night time economy. This pilot will continue until June, when it will be reviewed. The service

could continue, become a taxi-bus, or be withdrawn, depending on demand. As well as the two pilot schemes, a review of bus services for the Ollerton area is planned, including routes to and from Retford and Newark. This involves working with local operators to look at how smaller services could link to the existing commercial network.

New national government funds for public transport, to help national, local government and the private sector to work together to meet the needs of communities, could support further investment in these bus services, if Nottinghamshire County Council’s bid for this funding is successful.

Councillor John Cottee, committee chairman for Communities and Place said: “In Nottinghamshire we have an excellent reputation for public transport, with a 93% passenger satisfaction rating, the second highest in the UK. In our county 83% of residents are within 800 metres, or 10 minutes’ walk, of an hourly bus service. “But

this is no reason to rest on our laurels. We will continue to look at ways we can improve bus services to better meet the needs of our local communities.

“These pilot schemes will show how we can best support our residents. By looking at demand, and linking up with existing bus services, we can provide people in Nottinghamshire with the transport they need while offering the best value

for money.” Nottinghamshire County Council provides approximately 1.8 million journeys on council bus services each year and 3.2 million passengers use County Council bus stations every year. Staff at Nottinghamshire bus stations recently won the BID Platinum Award for customer service, in recognition of high-quality customer care.

The County Council currently spends approximately £3.9 million supporting local bus services, which compares favourably with other local authorities, whilst also investing in green buses and infrastructure. For every £1 spent on bus services £2.50 is generated for the economy.

Register to vote to have your say at the Police and Crime Commissioner election Householders across Nottinghamshire are being encouraged to register to vote to ensure they can have their say at the forthcoming Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) election.

The county will join fellow

local authority areas across England and Wales on Thursday May 7 to elect the official who will be responsible for how crime is tackled in their police force area. Residents need to be on the Electoral Register to vote and should contact their local authority to do so

by Tuesday 21 April.

Completing the registration takes just minutes via the government website if you’re aged 16 or over and a UK citizen or an Irish, EU or Commonwealth citizen with a permanent UK address.

If you’re a student, you can register at both your university and home address but can only vote once.

PCCs are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account, effectively making the police answerable to the communities they serve.

They are elected for a four-year term, and under the terms of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 must: • secure efficient and effective police for their area; • appoint the Chief Constable, hold them to account for running the force, and if necessary, dismiss them; • set the police and crime objectives

for their area through a police and crime plan; • set the force budget and determine the precept; • contribute to the national and international policing capabilities set out by the Home Secretary; and • bring together community safety and criminal justice partners, to make sure local priorities are joined up.

More detailed information on powers and responsibilities is also available online.

Details of the candidates’ election messages in Nottinghamshire will be available after April 17 on the Choose My PCC website. https://www.choosemypcc. org.uk/

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Consultation on new multi-million

pound investment in Arnold Market launched

Gedling Borough Council has announced a consultation on proposals to develop Arnold Market Place that will include a new two-storey building with permanent small business units and a revamped market.

A consultation on the ideas and concepts will begin on Monday and the council is urging residents to have their say and help shape the future of the market.

The market will receive the most significant investment it has ever had with up to £4 million allocated to the project as part of the council’s plan to revitalise the centre and create a new space that will help boost visitors to the town centre and support local businesses.

The proposals include the construction of a new landmark building, between

the existing Methodist Church and King George V Park.

A two-storey building will frame the new market place as well as create a new eastern gateway into Arnold Town Centre. A new public space will be created as a central focal point for the Market.

The new building will provide seven small outlets for local independent businesses with flexible space above, which could be used for a variety of commercial options.

Funding for this project will come from the council’s capital programme budget, boosted by a successful bid for £1.25 million from the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund that supports town centre improvements. The project will create around 40 new jobs through business employment and through

the construction of the new buildings.

There will be several public consultation events taking place around Arnold. The first will take place on Friday 28 February at the Market on Front Street, Arnold from 10am – 2pm. The public will be able to view the designs and talk to Council Officers and Councillors about the plans. There will also be consultation events at Arnold Methodist Church and at the Gedling Business Partnership Forum. Local stallholders and businesses will be invited to attend specific consultation events, focused on how the changes will affect them and how they can have an input into the plans.

The council has hired Maber Architects, who specialise in landscape and master planning services, to design the initial

concepts and they are working with Architect students from Nottingham Trent University to help bring the ideas to life.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke said: “We are very excited to share these ambitious ideas for Arnold Market Place.

The market and the town centre will benefit from the biggest investment it has ever received and we want residents and businesses to be involved from the outset, which is why we have opened this consultation period.

We want to create

Prospective Candidate Briefing

for Police and Crime Commissioner A prospective candidate candidates are requested to gov.uk if they wish to attend briefing for the email elections@rushcliffe. the session.

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner takes place at Rushcliffe Arena later this month.

Kath Marriott, the Police Area Returning Officer for Nottinghamshire will be hosting the event on Wednesday March 11 at 4pm for anyone intending to stand for the post at the forthcoming election in May and their agents. The briefing will be held in Committee Room 1 at the centre on Rugby Road in West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7YG. The session will cover the nomination process, issue of poll cards, registering to vote, postal voting and deadlines. All prospective

a place that will encourage new, exciting business opportunities whilst making sure the essence of the market, which has stood there for over 50 years, is not lost.

We made a promise to our residents that we would invest in Arnold Town Centre and the Market and you can see from these plans, that we are keeping that promise.

We will make sure residents and businesses are involved every step of the way but, we also want to reassure them that we will be moving quickly to get work started.

It’s a very exciting

moment for Arnold and for the council, we hope residents will be pleased with the ideas and designs and we really want them to have their say during the consultation period.”

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Southwell property celebrated as the oldest council house in the district A council property built in 1920 in Southwell has been celebrated as one of the oldest council houses in the district.

The home on Allenby Road, which has been occupied by two different generations of the same family since it was built, has had a plaque installed with the name ‘Addison House’ to commemorate the centenary of the Addison Act and council housing as we

know it today. The house, which is currently occupied

by Mrs Shirley Rickett, was first tenanted by the parents of her late husband, David Rickett. David was born in 1935 and grew up in the property with his mother and father, Hilda Mary Rickett and David Rickett.

Following the death of his parents, David remained at the property and in 1975 married S h i r l e y and she subsequently moved in.

David sadly passed away in 2013.

Council tenant Mrs R i c k e t t commented: “My late husband David would have been especially thrilled to know the family home has been commem orated as

one of the oldest council properties. He had such fond memories growing up here with his parents and I am proud to live here.” As part of the Newark and Sherwood District Council 100 years of council housing celebrations, chairman of homes and communities, Councillor Timothy Wendels and ward member for Southwell, Councillor Penny Rainbow, led the plaque unveiling ceremony.

Councillor Timothy Wendels said: “As we continue to celebrate the centenary of council housing, stories such as Mrs Rickett’s remind us of the enormous value council housing has for the people in our district and how important it is that we continue to invest in building more warm, family homes.

“We are already over half way through our five year development programme to deliver an additional 335 new, high-quality homes throughout the district and I am pleased we are able to celebrate one of our oldest council properties here today.”

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Big Investment for Rough Sleeping Initiatives

A range of intensive wraparound services aimed at preventing rough sleeping and supporting those affected in Nottinghamshire have been awarded £837,000. Ashfield District Council submitted a bid on behalf of all the Nottinghamshire authorities in December 2019. The funding, from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), will be complemented by an additional £90,000 investment from Nottinghamshire County Council and £70,000 by Framework. This will enable them to continue to work alongside the seven district and borough councils and housing providers to build on the services that ensure that people who are rough sleeping receive a range of support to improve their outcomes.

All Nottinghamshire districts and boroughs have also contributed £10,000; totalling a further £70,000.

Councillor Tom Hollis, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Ashfield District Council said: “We welcome this funding as it will help with a wide variety of homelessness services. It is important that we prevent people from losing their homes, so working proactively with private landlords is key.

“This funding will put the resources in place to support the most vulnerable people in our society.” A recent case proved how this work can help to protect those in danger of becoming homeless.

A private landlord got in touch with the Call B4 You Serve service when their tenant was behind on rent.

A single adult and her teenage son had found themselves hundreds of pounds in arrears and with a continuous shortfall in their rent each month. Investigations found that due to the son being housebound, he had not been claiming the Universal Credit he had been fully entitled to and officers were able to set up assessments on their behalf.

Following this visit he was awarded Universal Credit and a back payment. They were able to use this towards some of the arrears and became able to make regular payments towards the shortfall in rent.

Their landlord was happy with this outcome and withdrew their threat to serve notice, preventing the mother and son from becoming homeless.

Call B4 You Serve is an East Midlands-wide service set up in September 2019.

It provides upstream intervention by resolving

problems between tenant and landlord without needing to end the tenancy, therefore preventing homelessness.

Since starting, the service has prevented 21 households across Nottinghamshire from becoming homeless.

For all of the services funded

by MHCLG rough sleeping funding, 125 households were supported to access housing across the county between April and December 2019.

Councillor Tony Harper, Chair of Adult Social Care and Health Committee, said: “This funding is great news for Nottinghamshire. It will allow us to develop services to tackle the underlying issues around homelessness, such as mental health or substance misuse.

“These services aren’t just about providing the appropriate accommodation for homeless people. We are also giving people the support they need to take positive steps away from difficult situations and hopefully end the cycle of rough sleeping.”

Some key aspects of the provision include: • Rough sleeping co-ordinator and housing navigators: these will work with organisations to ensure that people get the support that they need in the right place at the right time e.g. people released from prison will be supported to find suitable accommodation.

• A range of interventions to prevent homelessness through housing and employment initiatives.

• Street outreach team that will support people with substance misuse and / or mental health needs.

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Helping Ashfield get more Energy Efficient Citizens Advice Ashfield are announcing they have secured two years funding from the Energy Redress Scheme, run by the Energy Saving Trust, to help vulnerable people in Ashfield become more fuel efficient and avoid fuel poverty. Working with Ashfield District Council, Citizens Advice will be offering vulnerable residents a full home energy assessment

including home visits and help with applying for energy saving grants and switching to the best deals in the market.

Citizens Advice will be employing an Energy Efficiency Officer who will be arranging individual appointments for clients and promoting the service around the district with other charities and service providers.

Commencing in March 2020,

the project will be going under the banner of Ashfield Energy Efficiency and will have its own website and dedicated service and appointments at their Kirkby Offices Kathryn Stacey CEO at Citizens Advice Ashfield said "we are delighted to have secured the funding to deliver this project; we often see many clients through our debt service who would benefit

Councillors approve scheme to

continue protecting working age families Councillors have approved continuation of a Council Tax Scheme that protects the borough’s working age families on low incomes from being landed with a bill they are unlikely to be able to pay.

The local Council Tax Reduction Scheme, which replaced the previously nationally funded Council Tax Benefits Scheme, gives councils the powers to award between 80% and 100% reduction in Council Tax to working age families who are on low incomes.

Government forced councils to protect pensioners in their local schemes but did not afford working age families the same protection.

Gedling Borough Council adopted a full 100% scheme back in 2013, despite funding from the Government having been reduced year on year until it cut funding entirely in 2019/20.

The introduction of Gedling Borough Council’s local scheme prevented thousands of working age families across Gedling from being landed with an additional Council Tax bill.

Gedling Borough Council is now one of a few councils in the country who continue to provide a full scheme that protects working age families, as well as pensioners,

despite the council becoming the worst affected council in England because of government funding cuts.

Latest official Government figures show the council has seen a reduction of 21.3% in its core spending power since 2015 ranking it at 359th out of 359 councils in England.

Deputy Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor Michael Payne said: “Our local Council Tax Reduction Scheme protects well over 3,500 families in the borough from being landed with an unexpected bill as a result of cuts and reforms by central government.

The Government rightly chose to protect pensioners when they introduced changes to Council Tax benefits back in

2012 but they decided not to give the same full protection to working age families.

Gedling Borough Council decided to protect working age families and pensioners and I’m proud we’ve decided this protection will continue as we move into the eighth year of this scheme.

Gedling Borough Council is officially the worst affected council in England in terms of reduction in its core spending power since 2015 as a result of central Government cuts but we’re determined to do all we can to protect working age families from being landed with additional large bills at a time when they’re already having to deal with rising living costs.’

from an energy assessment, yet have never had the ability to deliver this."

"Working with the council’s housing teams in identifying and accessing some of the most vulnerable clients in the private rented sector will be a key focus of the project.

We will also be providing home visits to those residents who suffer from mobility

and isolation problems, particularly in rural areas."

Cllr Tom Hollis, portfolio holder for Housing at Ashfield District Council, said “Ashfield District Council is pleased to be able to support this project by Citizens Advice Ashfield to address the high levels of fuel poverty in the District. Tackling fuel poverty is a key priority for

ADC and this initiative will make a real difference to our residents’ lives.”

“This funding will allow work to continue through agreeing referral protocols. It will enable the Council to refer residents who are currently being supported by our Affordable Warmth Team and Housing Officers, to the new Energy Efficiency Officer.”

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The Arc Cinema Hucknall to Open March 27th

The Arc Cinema is delighted to confirm that it will open to the public on Friday March 27th just in time to catch great kids’ films for Easter such as Peter Rabbit and Mulan and of course the mighty James Bond returning in No Time

to Die. The redevelopment works are very close to completion at what was the Byron Cinema on Duke Street, Hucknall and the finishing touches are being applied over the next few weeks. The Irish cinema operator, The

Arc Cinema, is investing £3 million in converting the old Byron Cinema into a state of the art 4 screen cinema. The cinema will have 425 luxury leather electric recliner seats with masses of legroom, laser digital projection and

Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound. Access for all is key to The Arc Cinema’s offer with all screens wheelchair accessible and subtitled screenings, kids’ clubs and parent and baby screenings part of the offer.

The cinema will show the latest blockbuster and independent films as well as broadcast screenings of opera, ballet and theatrical productions.

There will be a full range of delicious snacks and drinks on offer and all the screens are licensed so you can enjoy a beer or glass of wine while watching the film. Brian Gilligan of The Arc Cinema says: “We are delighted to be able to confirm finally that we will be opening on March 27th. A great deal of hard work has gone into preparing a fantastic cinema in this iconic building and we are certain that the people of Hucknall are going to love what we’ve done” Recruitment for staff for the new cinema will start this week – week commencing 2nd March and how to apply will be announced on the company’s Facebook page.

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Have your say on Council’s Equality Scheme Bassetlaw residents, communities and groups are being given the opportunity to help shape the Council’s Equality Scheme for the next four years as part of a sixweek consultation.

Bassetlaw District Council has a legal duty to produce an Equality Scheme that promotes a number of Equality Objectives which guide our approach to increasing fairness and access to Council services. This applies to everyone in the District - from those who provide services to the people who use them.

The Scheme will focus on key themes including the nine protected characteristics of the Equality Act; age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, race, religion and belief, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and sexual orientation. It also focuses on rural inclusion and socio economic factors.

Our previous Scheme for 2016-2020 is about to expire and our new Draft Equality Objectives for 2020-2024 will further demonstrate the Council’s commitment to challenging inequality and

promoting a fair and inclusive Bassetlaw.

We have identified five draft objectives, each with a set of more specific aims. They will guide the work we do in the district over the next four years and help us retain our focus on important areas, so we can really make a difference. These are: Objective 1: Engage and communicate in appropriate and accessible ways Objective 2: Ensure we deliver inclusive and responsive services Objective 3: Foster good relations with and within the community Objective 4: Break the cycle of inequality and improve life chances Objective 5: Develop and support a diverse workforce Cllr Sue Shaw, Cabinet Member for Health and Community Well-Being at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “Our Equality Scheme will set out what we need to do over the next four years to make Bassetlaw as inclusive as possible and to be a place where people treat each other with fairness, dignity and

respect.

“As an authority we want to build on the work already achieved and ensure that these values are embedded within the hearts and minds of our workforce, partners and the communities we serve.”

“By being part of the consultation process, everyone has the opportunity shape the way that we create policies and strategies that guide how we deliver our services; and how we will work with partners in areas like supporting children, young people and families, and improving health and wellbeing.”

To take part in the consultation and to read the Draft Equality Objectives for 2020-2024, please visit https://www.bassetlaw.gov. uk/equality-objectives If you require the consultation form and draft objectives in an alternative format, please call 01909 533 533 and ask for Stephen Brown, Head of Corporate Services.

Alternatively you can email customer.services@ bassetlaw.gov.uk The closing date for responses is Monday 30th March 2020.

ASHFIELD’S AWESOME TEACHER NOMINATIONS Back in February, Kip McGrath Education Centres ran a competition to find Ashfield’s most awesome teacher.

We invited students to nominate their favourite member of staff and to give an explanation in no more than 14 words. The nominations are in for the coveted ‘Kip McGrath Awesome Teacher’ title.

Here’s what some children had to say about their teachers. “She helps me get better at reading.

“I love her! “and “They are the best teacher at my school”.

Here at Kip McGrath we want to support the already awesome work that teachers do and make sure that those most awesome teachers are recognised. Every teacher that has been nominated will

get a small prize and a copy of their nominations. With over 40 years history and an international reputation, Kip McGrath knows what works.

Boost your child’s self confidence and self-esteem in Maths and English today.

Booking a FREE assessment is easy just go to our website and choose a time to suit you www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/ ashfield

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Nottingham from the Air

Photo by Robin Macey

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This month’s aerial photo shows a view of High Pavement. At LHS is the National Justice Museum whose court rooms date back to 14th century. The former Unitarian Church was opened in 1876 and in 1998 became the Pitcher & Piano pub. The photo was taken

by Robin Macey who is a member of Nottingham & Derby Hot Air Balloon Club. The club is currently looking to expand. Members take turns being on the chase crew as well as flying in the basket. For further details about how to get involved phone 0115-8541028 or visit www.facebook.com/ndhabc.

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Former director fined for throwing cigarette butt The former director of a plastering and screeding company has been fined and ordered to pay legal costs after throwing a cigarette butt from his van. Aaron Baker of Beechways, Ordsall, Retford pleaded guilty to littering and failing to return a Section 108 Notice at Mansfield Magistrates’ Court on 22nd January 2020. He was fined £100 for each offence and ordered to pay £500 costs and a £32 victim surcharge, totalling £732.

A member of the public witnessed Baker throwing what appeared to be a cigarette

butt from a Citroen Van on the morning of 24th July 2019 at the junction of Kilton Hill and Blyth Road. This was subsequently reported to Bassetlaw District Council’s Environmental Health Team.

A study, led by Anglia Ruskin University, estimated that 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are littered globally each year making them the planet's most pervasive form of plastic pollution.

Cllr Julie Leigh, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods at Bassetlaw District Council, said: “This may appear to be a severe punishment for

discarding a cigarette butt.

However, whether it is a drinks bottle, food packaging or a cigarette that is discarded irresponsibly, it is still littering and it all pollutes our environment, makes our streets and roadsides look untidy and is a criminal offence.

A Keep Britain Tidy campaign in 2017/18 surveyed 7,200 sites around the UK and found that dropped cigarette butts were found in 79% of sites.

As well as plastic, cigarette filters are comprised of thousands of chemical

Nottingham Harmonic Choir at the seaside!

Our island nation has always been fascinated by the sea, and our greatest composers have been irresistibly drawn to write about the coast line, the ships that sail it and the stories that come from it.

Here we present Stanford’s rollicking nautical entertainment Songs of the

Fleet, alongside Britten’s atmospheric Four Sea Interludes, a dramatic cantata Sir Patrick Spens

by Herbert Howells, and an extraordinary melodrama by the great Romantic Hamish MacCunn The Wreck of the Hesperus (probably never heard in Nottingham before

and here orchestrated for the first time), all launched by Mendelssohn’s wonderfully vivid picture of Fingal’s Cave, The Hebrides overture.

Bring your waterproofs!

Taking place Saturday 21 March 7.30 at the Albert Hall, Nottingham (see advert for ticket details).

ingredients, including arsenic, lead and nicotine, all of which can leak into marine environments, have been proven to stifle plant growth and can take decades to break down. Cllr Leigh added: “We are taking a tough approach to all enviro-crime and will not hesitate to take action when we have the necessary evidence. I would also like to thank the member of the public who reported this to us and has helped to

make our district a cleaner place.”

A Section 108 Notice was issued to BW Plastering and Screeding Ltd, who were the legal owners of the vehicle.

Following investigations, it transpired that Baker was the only person who drove that particular vehicle and was the only one of the three directors of the company who smoked.

It was also revealed that Baker, 23, was no longer a director of the company and

parted ways with the other directors in August 2019 following questions over his conduct and integrity with the company.

A Section 108 Notice was then issued to Baker, who failed to provide the required information within the set timescale. He was ordered to appear before the courts and following a guilty plea, was convicted and sentenced for littering and failing to respond to a Section 108 Notice.

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Mother's Day Newstead Abbey Garden History Tour Sunday 22 March 2020 | 1pm and 2:30pm. Free This Mother's Day enjoy a free tour of the gardens of Newstead Abbey, learning about their history with knowledgable guide, Philip

Jones.Highlights of the tour include the remains of the oak tree planted by the poet Lord Byron when he was 10 years old; the gloomy Devils Wood with its evil-looking satyrs, contrasting with the

colourful herbaceous borders; the maze-like Spanish Garden originally part of the monks' burial ground; the fern garden with its Victorian grotto; plus one of the oldest surviving Japanese Gardens in Britain,

complete with stepping stones, stone lanterns and tea-house. Why not spend the day at the Abbey and book yourselves a Mother's Day Afternoon Tea? Please book on the day at the house reception, and ring in advance to check whether tour will be running.

Normal car parking charges will apply.

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“It’s not good, gentlemen. That’s why

I’ve gathered you all here. An Inspector

is coming… a Government Inspector!”

The Mayor is in a cold sweat.

News has reached him of an imminent visit from a Government Inspector. His fear is well-founded as he has been somewhat lacking in his

official duties. The hospital’s a health hazard, the school’s a war zone, the soldiers don’t have trousers to march in and he never quite got around to building that church! Surely the only possible solution is bribery; it seems to have resolved many a sticky situation for the Mayor and his team in the past! But a simple case of mistaken identity leads matters to spiral hysterically out of control.

Could it be that they have met their match in

the complicated business of deception? Gogol’s satirical masterpiece is a riot of corruption, lies and greed that has lost none of its original bite. An amateur production in conjunction with Casarotto Ramsay & Associates. The easiest way to purchase tickets is to visit our tickets website, where you can select your own seat and securely pay online www.ticketsource. co.uk/riversidedrama.

By providing an email address, tickets are emailed to you to print yourself. All other tickets will be held at the theatre box office for collection on the night of the performance.

Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from the Chatsworth Centre Saturday morning coffee morning, or by phoning 0115 9721826 (please leave full name & contact details). Visit us online at www.riversidedrama.com for further details.

Memo to the weather

- It's nearly Spring!

As much as I love a cosy winter, I don't know about you but I think I'm ready to embrace the great outdoors again soon at one of Nottingham's great events.

Mother's Day is also on the horizon, and there's plenty of things happening all around our great County throughout March.

Looking for inspiration?

Read on for my pick of what's on.

There's plenty in the way of entertainment to choose from. A very special, oneof-a-kind tour is coming to Motorpoint Arena.

With a huge all-star line up, The Blast Off Tour! features live performances from top US artists Nelly, Salt N Pepa, Shaggy, Mya and Blu Cantrell (3 March) The Stereophonics visit (7 March) followed by The Script (9 March).

Over at The Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall, there's a few new shows visiting to look out for as well as an old favourite.

Join Diva, the 50 piece Limelight Orchestra’s celebration on International Women’s Day (8/3) as it shares proceeds in support of the charity, Nottingham Women’s Centre.

Enjoy the iconic anthems of female superstars from Shirley Bassey to Beyoncé as they are celebrated in this uplifting live music show.

A powerful reinvention of the family favourite, Riverdance also visits for their 25th anniversary (16/3) An Evening With Whitney: The Whitney Houston Hologram Tour! Promises to be an iconic and awe-inspiring live theatrical performance celebrating Whitney's life, work, and legacy.

The one of a kind holographic experience will reunite audiences with the Queen of Pop using state of the art technology and digitally re mastered arrangements of her classic hits – backed by a live band, singers, dancers – all surrounded by a spectacular and cutting-edge stage and lighting extravaganza.

Sounds interesting! (9/3), but maybe not as 'interesting as the live divorcing and beheading in the musical 'Six' Nominated for 5 Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, from Tudor queens to pop princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII finally take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. You can also enjoy an evening of music

Attenborough, Beeston and Chilwell Arts’ Trail

6th and 7th June 2020 - 11am to 6pm daily Twenty nine artists in sixteen venues: painters and potters; jewellers and sculptors; textiles, photography and glass workers.

For more information please check our website www.abcarttrail.uk or find us on https://www. facebook.com/abcarttrail Look out for our flyers which will be distributed in local shops and meeting places. You can start the trail at any point and collect a map of the other venues.

Refreshments are supplied at some venues in aid of local charities.

There are some new, carefully selected, artists who join the trail this year who will open their studios for you to see their work and to share their expertise. All our artists are looking forward to meeting their regular visitors and welcoming new ones.

There will be opportunities to buy contemporary art and craft directly from the maker.

More than

800 adult visitors attended in 2019. We are grateful that many local business are happy to sponsor us so that we can expand the trail and engage the community. The art trail is now a firm fixture as an annual event on the first weekend of June.

Open Studios in our area started with just a few artists in 2006. Those of us involved at that stage noticed a growing interest by the general public in viewing not only the art but the processes involved. We enjoyed showing our work but also sharing the ideas and explaining how a piece is made. Since then the concept has grown and is now a fully functioning community event.

In 2020 we are holding a Primary Schools Art Competition, e n c o u r a g i n g all schools in Attenborough, Beeston and Chilwell to take part. Prizes of art materials will be

given to the work which our artists judge to be the best in two age groups.

The winning art works will be mounted and hung in all our venues We hope to encourage these young artists and inspire them to be creative. They and their families will be welcomed by our artists on the trail We have a great deal of local talent in our midst so come with your friends and families and enjoy this free community arts trail.

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and nostalgia when ultimate feel-good show MAMMA MIA! returns (24 March - 4 April) Over at The Playhouse The London Film Music Orchestra will perform Freddie Mercury & Queen's greatest hits.

The concert will reflect music highlighted in the Golden Globe and Oscar award winning movie Bohemian Rhapsody (13) Meanwhile Rock City welcomes Gabrielle Aplin (14) and Louise Redknapp (18). You can also join Notts biggest sing along this month when Bama Lama Sing Song returns to The Rescue Rooms (27) If comedy is your thing then you'll be pleased to know we get a visit from La Voix at The Nottingham Arts Theatre (7 March) Expect side splitting comedy, huge vocals, mesmerising impressions of the worlds biggest divas and buckets full of energy. Comedian Jimmy Carr brings his show Terribly Funny to the Royal Concert Hall on the same date.

Based on the 1970s classic TV comedy Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em brings the ultimate feel-good night out to the Theatre Royal. Hilarious mishaps and DIY disasters are set to bring the house down with Joe Pasquale as the lovable accident-prone Frank Spencer (10 - 14) On a more serious note, what a time for drama!

To tie-in with the Royal Shakespeare Company’s visit to Nottingham in 2020, Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall are presenting their very own Celebrating Shakespeare Festival, taking over the Theatre Royal for 10 days of activities and events (Running until 7th) The Lakeside Arts Theatre offering this month is the surprisingly moving and uplifting story, Pricks (17) It's a great month for foodies, and those who like a tipple or two!

Take your pick from a seasonal tasting menu at Langar Hall.

Indulge, discover & enjoy (27) There's also another in the series of 'Food Talks' at Lakeside Arts. This Month's theme is Food and Poverty

(25). Enjoy the ultimate night out for Whiskey lovers at The Cross Keys on Byard Lane.

A talented team of chefs have designed an exquisite 4 course menu which has been perfectly matched with some flavoursome whiskeys from the good people of Glenfiddich.

Experts will be on hand to talk you through each whiskey and offer insight talking you through each dram (6) If a Cocktail is more your thing, be prepared to be transported back in time to1925 where prohibition laws have banned the production and sale of alcohol in the USA. Go underground and out of sight at the Malt Cross.

Spend an evening led by one of their expert Heritage Tasting Guides where you'll learn how to make four different Prohibition cocktails (7 & 14) or maybe you prefer to impress your guests with your flawless knowledge of how to pair chocolates and booze?

Now's your chance to gain these skills at the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace

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Museum where you will be presented with a number of chocolates in different forms such as truffles or slabs. Each piece of chocolate will be accompanied by a different alcoholic beverage which has been chosen specifically because it partners perfectly (13) Over at Welbeck, acclaimed Chef, Jake Simpson and Welbeck Farm Shop Founder, Joe Parente, host a series of pop-up events at The Harley Café ( 13 & 14/ 27 & 28) and have developed an exciting menu of Italian cuisine.

Another local business, 200 Degrees, host a selection of dates and opportunities this month to learn more about coffee including lattè art and home-brew (visit their website for details).

You could also try your hand and truffle making at Luisa's Vegan Chocolate (17 & 24) learn all about Foraging and Wild Food Cookery at The School of Artisan Food, Welbeck. discover the wild and wonderful story of gin with a whistle-stop tour of the history of gin at The Malt Cross (21) or even tuck into a

Royal Afternoon Tea inspired

by The Crown, taking place in the regal opulence of Belvoir Castle, stand in for Windsor Castle in the Netflix production.

Enjoy champagne, sandwiches, handmade scones and pastries served in the State Dining Room, where you will be following in the footsteps of the starry cast of The Crown led by Her Majesty played by Olivia Coleman (21-22) perfect for Mother's Day. If you prefer a little Art, my two picks this time is the Brick by Brick exhibition at the Harley Gallery which runs until 7 April and showcases 18 international visual artists who have taken inspiration from LEGO® bricks.

Using the simple plastic construction block as their starting point, each artist has created stunning, thought provoking and often humorous artworks which will appeal to art enthusiasts and LEGO fans alike.

There's also Matt Woodham's debut solo exhibition, Sensing Systems (running until 28 March) Bonnington

Gallery will be filled with a composition of connected installations, positioning visitors within a system of light, sound and motion.

Visual and kinetic events will be sequenced by a central processing unit that distributes signals around the room.

The audience can interact with the system.

For something completely different options this month, see the stars like never before, with expert astronomer, Paul Money.

Join Paul at Creswell Crags for an insightful talk about the night's sky, before heading out into the evening, to look through telescopes at the constellations (16) The Arnold Local History Group has over the years accumulated a considerable amount of archival film of ‘Old Arnold’ which has now been digitised, some of which has never previously been seen before. View a selection of film at Arnold Methodist Church (27) And finally Spring is upon us as we welcome the first

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of the outdoor fairs. Visit the magnificent setting of Green's Windmill for their traditional Spring Fayre (21 March) There will be a varied selection of stalls to browse, tours of the windmill at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm Take in the breath-taking views across Nottingham and enjoy home-made pizza fresh from the community garden pizza oven. There's also an Eventing Spring Carnival taking place at Thoresby (27-29 March) Three days of great family entertainment starring world class equestrian riders welcoming International and Olympic competitors.

When visitors need to take a break and refuel, they will be spoilt for choice.

There will be a Street Food

Festival with a range of tempting food stalls and bars to keep people going, offering everything from gourmet burgers to Indian street food, and from craft beer to a Gin Den. The carnival will host a wide range of attractions for all the family to enjoy from dog agility and show, children's entertainment and a shopping village.

You can also get this year's gardening off to a great start with the new Plant Hunters' Fair at Patchings Art Centre.

Pop along and visit 20 highly respected specialist nurseries & artisans. The plant fair has a brilliant line up of top nurseries who will come loaded with a great mix of plants and specialities to delight plant lovers of every level of experience with a

wide range of perennials, shrubs, trees, rare species and old heritage varieties.

(28). As always, don't forget that there is history and interest are right on your doorstep throughout the year with the many tours on offer throughout the County.

My pick this time is The Nutty Nottingham Tour.

Join a Nottingham-raised stand up comedian as The Sheriff and take a walk around the city for a ninety minute, myth-busting, factfilled jaunt taking in all the usual sites as well as a few spots you maybe weren't expecting. (7) *Always check with the venue ahead and book if necessary. There is usually a cost or entrance fee unless stated otherwise

WILKO JOHNSON and special guest John Otway play NOTTINGHAM Albert Hall on Friday 24th April 2020!

Following a remarkable recovery from a diagnosis of terminal cancer, Wilko Johnson the original Dr Feelgood guitarist, actor (Game of Thrones character Ser ilyn Payne) and all round national treasure has enjoyed a rousing return to the live arena, including a number 1 album with Roger Daltrey (Going Back Home), a sold out show at The Royal Albert Hall to mark his 70th birthday and, most recently, the release of Blow Your Mind, his first album of new material in decades. Wilko is famed for his blistering chop-chord strumming action (the ‘stab’, as he describes it), a technique inspired by his admiration of the late Pirates guitarist Mick Green. With this electrifying sound, his trademark blacksuited, scowling look and his characteristic strut, Wilko became one of the guitar heroes of the 1970s and beyond, not to mention on of rock ’n’ roll’s most extraordinary characters.

He, alongside his original Feelgood bandmates, is also widely acknowledged as a forefather of punk on both sides of the Atlantic, fans ranging from Joe Strummer to Blondie. Following a stint with Ian Dury & The Blockheads in the 1980s, he formed the Wilko Johnson Band, with Blockheads

bassist Norman Watt-Roy. Featuring former Blockhead Dylan Howe on drums, the trio is known as one of the most exciting r’n’b bands in the world today.

Special guest 'Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure John Otway.

Tickets for the WILKO JOHNSON – April / May 2020 shows are available from: Thursday 9th April WORTHING – Assembly Box Office No: 0844 249 1000 Website – https://www. eventim.co.uk/artist/wilkojohnson/?affiliate=GCL Tickets - £32.50 Friday 10th April POOLE – Lighthouse Box Office No: 0844 249 1000 Website – https://www. eventim.co.uk/artist/wilkojohnson/?affiliate=GCL Tickets - £32.50 Saturday 11th April ABERYSTWYTH – Arts Centre Great Hall Box Office No: 0844 249 1000 Website – https://www. eventim.co.uk/artist/wilkojohnson/?affiliate=GCL Tickets - £32.50 Friday 24th April NOTINGHAM – Albert Hall Box Office No: 0871 220 0260 Website – https://www. seetickets.com/event/wilkojohnson/albert-hall/1443664

Tickets - £32.50 Saturday 23rd May BLACKPOOL – Grand Theatre Box Office No: 01253 290190 Website – https://www. blackpoolgrand.co.uk/event/ wilko-johnson/ Tickets - £32.50 For further information on WILKO JOHNSON, check out the following website / social media links: Website – https:// wilkojohnson.com/ Facebook – https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / WilkoJohnsonBand Twitter – https://twitter.com/ wilkojohnson You Tube Links: Wilko Johnson & Roger Daltrey ‘I Keep It To Myself’ - https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=GwLeTPVuD3c Wilko Johnson on Later With Jools Holland https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hIXP889rLBQ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON WILKO JOHNSON INCLUDING IMAGES / INTERVIEW REQUESTS AND COMPETITION TICKETS PLEASE CONTACT: Maria Philippou @ M P Promotions Tel: 0161 494 7934 / Mobile: 0780 119 1784 / Email: maria@mppromotions. co.uk / Website - www. mppromotions.co.uk

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Easter Family Fest Nottingham Playhouse Monday 6 - Thursday 9 April 2020 £0 - £10 Join Nottingham Playhouse for a week of fun events to enjoy with your little ones this Easter! There are games and activities, messy play, theatre experiences and much more, they've something for all ages. Early booking is highly recommended.

The Line-up Monday 6 April Singing, Songs and Silliness | 10-11am and 11.30am12.30pm | £6 A silly, funny and noisy morning of singing with voice games, simple actions and lots of fun! Recommended for ages 0-6.

Drums, Drums, Drums! | 1011am and 11.30am-12.30pm | £6 Come and spend an hour with an expert percussionist as you go on a magical journey into the world of rhythm, drumming and play.

Recommended for ages 0-5.

Creative Writing – Stories | 11am-12pm | £6 (or £10 for both this session and Creative Writing – Poetry) Sharpen those pencils and your imagination too, ready for lots of fun with words and ideas. Recommended for ages 7-11.

Creative Writing – Poetry |

12.30-1.30pm | £6 (or £10 for both this session and Creative Writing – Stories) Sharpen those pencils and your imagination too, ready for lots of fun with words and ideas. Recommended for ages 7-11. Easter Hat Making | 2.30-3.45pm | £6 Join in on making a weird and wonderful variety of hats, bonnets and other fascinating things! Recommended for ages 4-11.

Drama Games | 2.30-3.30pm | £6 Explore the world of theatre together through fun games and teamwork. Suitable for all abilities. Recommended for ages 7-11.

Tuesday 7 April The Teeny Tiny Orchestra | 10-11am and 11.30am12.30pm | £6 Prepare to get noisy! Crash, play, sing, toot and whistle together. Recommended for ages 2-7.

The Ultimate Playhouse Play-Dough Party | 11.30am12.30pm and 4.30-5.30pm | £6 Party hats, games, music, healthy snacks and pots and pots of Play-Dough. A great mixture of organised games, and free play time.

Recommended for ages 4-8.

Shenanigans on the Farm – Multi-Sensory Workshop | 3-4.30pm | £6. Farmer Brown

and Farmer Blue need your help to straighten out the farm after a storm! A multisensory adventure for all the family. Designed for families with children with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities aged 5-15 years.

Family members of all ages welcome.

Wednesday 8 April Art Attack Messy Play | 1011am, 11.30am-12.30pm and 2.30pm | £6 Let’s get messy! Painting, glitter, gloop and slime… if it makes a mess you’ll find it here. Recommended for ages 0-5.

Play In A Day: Twelfth Night | 10am-4.30pm | £10 One whole play in just one day. Working with a director, participants will perform their 10 minute version of Twelfth Night for parents at the end of the day. Recommended for ages 11-16.

Circus Skills | 1.30-2.30pm and 3-4pm | £6 Hula hooping, plate spinning, diabolo, juggling and more!

Recommended for ages 5-10.

Thursday 9 April The Famous Baby and Toddler Disco! | 10-11am and 11.30am-12.30pm | £6 Always a hugely popular event, come and dance, socialise, play party games and singalong with music for little ones and parents alike.

Recommended for ages 0-5.

Monday 6 - Thursday 9 April Project X | 6.30-8.30pm | Free

An exciting new project for young creators, quick thinkers, big voices and wannabe film makers. The

group will work together over 4 evenings to make their very own film. Recommended for ages 11-18.

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Holkham/Wells - Improvements and stunning new circular walk A new circular walk between Holkham and Wells and accessibility improvements to a popular section of the Norfolk Coast Path. The section of the Coast Path between Holkham and Wells was upgraded this winter with a brand-new surface made out of locally sourced materials which means that the formerly uneven surface can now be used by all.

A need for the improvements was identified after a review was carried out by the Active Trails team who assess paths across the county. The team helps to highlight areas for improvement and creates guides to make sure people looking for walks can easily identify if a route is suitable for them or their family and friends. This work over recent years means Norfolk is now more accessible than ever with 18 access tested route guides covering more than 35 miles of paths.

Cllr Dr Marie Strong, Norfolk County Councillor for the Wells division, said: “It is a privilege to live in such a beautiful part of the country and this project which will open up paths to many more

people is something of which the county council can be proud. It is by removing barriers we can help people to visit and enjoy our wonderful North Norfolk coast with their friends and family which is why I am especially pleased that members of Active Trails who assess routes for accessibility attended the opening.

In addition to the Coast Path improvements a new circular walk between Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea has just been created opening-up a 6.75 mile, fully signed, route in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Cllr Andrew Jamieson, Norfolk County Council’s Member Champion for Cycling and Walking said: “The team have been doing exemplary work to make sure more people can access the great outdoors and all the benefits that brings.

These improvements to the Coast Path mean everyone can now access this muchloved section of path between Holkham and Wells. Also I’m eager to try out the new circular walk which takes you beside in the breath-taking

beach at Holkham, through sweeping parkland and to the delights of historical Wellsnext-the-Sea.” Over recent years the county council’s Norfolk Trails team have been creating short circular walks off the longdistance Norfolk Trails. The new 6.75 mile circular walk between Holkham and Wells that has been officially opened today takes the total number of circular routes off the coast path to 29. This is in addition to 9 circular walks off the Marriott’s Way Norfolk Trail and 8 upcoming new circular walks soon to be created off the Weavers' Way Norfolk Trail.

The access improvement scheme builds on work completed last summer to completely remove stiles from the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path to make them more accessible than ever for everyone.

Find these and other access tested and circular walks here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/trails The £205,000 scheme was funded by the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) following a successful application by Norfolk County Council.

£430.4 million spending plans which boost children’s and adults' services and a Council Tax rise of 3.99 per cent have been agreed by Norfolk County Council.

Today’s full council meeting supported the latest revenue budget.

It is funded by Council Tax, which will rise by 3.99 per cent – 1.99 per cent for general Council Tax and two per cent under the Government’s adult social care precept. This will see the county council’s share of band D bills rise by £54.27, to £1,416.51.

Councillor Andrew Proctor, the council’s leader, said: “We are setting this council on course for a balanced budget for 2020/21.

We will continue to deliver vital services to all the people of Norfolk, within our finite means. We are not hiding from the

financial challenges of future years.” Councillor Andrew Jamieson, cabinet member for finance, said: “You have a budget before you today that is robust, balanced and sees not only services maintained but invested in.” The £430.4 million net budget is larger than originally proposed in January, due to £2.7 million additional Council Tax income from the district councils, which was higher than forecast. This has allowed further cost pressures in children’s services to be addressed. The council is funding £70m of additional service pressures next year, with significant investment in adults' and children’s services: £34.7m for adult social care, including £6.1m for demographic pressures, £7.6m for inflation and £7.9m for pay and price pressures £28.1m for children’s services, including £3.7m for

inflation, £14m for budget pressures including looked after children, £4.5m for home to school transport and £7.1m for staffing pressures, including investment in the service’s new operating model and resolving the structural budget gap In addition, the council is: Investing £887,000 in the fire service, to support the proposals in the integrated risk management plan.

Supporting the environment policy, with a budget rising to £350,000 over two years The council has budgeted to save £395m between 201112 and 2019-20.

Savings proposed for 202021 to 2023-24 total £63.8 million, with £40.2 million to be delivered in 2020-21.

Since 2011, the council’s funding from the Government has reduced by £220m and cost pressures have risen by £440m.

Council budget agreed

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'Incredibly Rare' Roman Horse brooch found in Lincolnshire – The 'Leasingham Horse' A very rare roman brooch dating back to the dawn of the Roman conquest has been found in a field near Sleaford by a metal detectorist.

The colourful Horse brooch was unearthed in a field near Leasingham by metal detector enthusiast Jason Price (48) from Grantham, and has, according to a local expert, rewritten the understandings around Roman brooches.

Veteran Jason found the brooch during a 'Detecting for Veterans' weekend. He said: "It was the last field of the

weekend and it was heavily ploughed – so I didn’t hold out much hope of finding anything. You can imagine my surprise when my detector started buzzing.

"About eight inches down I found something caked in mud. At first I thought it was a piece of litter, but as I cleaned it off, my jaw dropped open.

There it was – a horse brooch.

I was shaking. I've found things like coins before, but never anything like this. Absolutely amazing!"

Dr Lisa Brundle, the Finds

Liaison Officer (FLO) at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "This brooch is an exciting and rare discovery. It depicts a fairly realistic horse with an outstanding level of detail and is in remarkable condition – it even has the pin still attached!

"The horse would have originally appeared gold-like and the recesses probably once contained bright red, blue or yellow enamel. It would have been a spectacular sight on someone's robe. "This type of Roman horse brooch is in-

credibly rare in Britain – and is the second only to have been found in the UK. The only other one is in the British Museum and is decorated differently - with spots of enamel only. The Leasingham horse, however, is in a league of its own with its pin situated below the legs and the realistic depiction of a saddle."

The brooch will be on display at the Collection Museum in Lincoln later this year.

For more information on the latest finds in Lincolnshire

follow us at @HistPlacesLincs on Twitter or Facebook at Lincolnshire Portable Antiquities Scheme.

Look up other interesting finds in your local area on the PAS website www.finds.org. uk

Street lighting changes saving taxpayers £2.5m a year Converting lights to LEDs and switching off street lights between midnight and dawn has reduced carbon emissions by 6,200 metric tonnes a year and is saving £2.5m in annual electricity costs. The latest figures, revealed by Lincolnshire County Council, show that the council expects to spend £1.95m to light the streets this year. Under previous arrangements, this would have cost local taxpayers £4.45m at today's prices. The street lighting changes have also cut the council's carbon footprint by over 6,200 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide each year – the equivalent emissions of driving a car around the Earth 4,000 times. Since last

year, town and parish councils have been able to apply to keep street lights on all night for in their area for a one-off payment of £150 or £300 per light, depending on whether a separate visit is needed.

The county council has received a number of enquiries about changes the street lights.

However, to date, only one formal submission has been made by Pinchbeck Parish Council for four lights on Grove Close. These lights will be changed as part of the routine maintenance schedule in the upcoming financial year.

Cllr Richard D a v i e s , executive member for highways, said: "This is a significant saving – above what we had initially estimated – and it allows us to invest more in the council's o t h e r priorities,

including looking after older people and fixing even more potholes.

"There's no evidence that the change to part night lighting affected the crime rate in Lincolnshire, but we can now see that it has had a marked effect on cutting the impact on the environment.

"For those communities that still wanted the lights on all night, we put in the mechanism for local councils to request that. However, with just one parish council requesting four street lights to be left on, it's clear that residents aren't particularly concerned about the impact of part night lighting."

Just under half of Lincolnshire's 68,000 street lights have already been converted to LEDs, and around 42,000 currently operate on a part night lighting schedule.

Town and parish councils interested in requesting full night lighting in their area should contact streetlighting@lincolnshire. gov.uk and their local county councillor. Requests can only be accepted from parish and town councils or the equivalent precept-setting authority.

Spotted a problem with a street light in Lincolnshire?

Report it to us through https:// fixmystreet.lincolnshire.gov. uk

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The Lady Boys of Bangkok to perform in the Market Place

The Lady Boys of Bangkok are returning to Derby LIVE for their most sensational show yet! In just one month’s time, the Sabai Pavilion will

be back at the Market Place, so get ready for departure for this Flight of Fantasy.

From Friday 27th March to Sunday 12th April, climb

aboard for the ride of your life as 16 of the world’s most glamorous showgirls (who just happen to be men!) take you soaring to a new world of dazzling diamante-dipped song and dance. Comedy turbulence is the in-flight order of the day as your cabin crew send you mile high at the biggest party in town!

The eye-catching Sabai Pavilion provides a spacious yet intimate cabaret venue like no other. To enter the foyer is to step through the looking glass. You find yourself instantly transported to the exotic surroundings of Bangkok – greeted by the enticing aromas of freshly prepared Thai cuisine and an atmosphere charged with excitement and wonder. There are also two well-stocked bars to keep the drinks flowing and the party going.

Jason Manford returns to Derby Arena Derby LIVE is pleased to announce that Jason Manford will be returning to Derby Arena on 14th October 2021, 7.30pm with his new UK wide tour Like Me. It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show, but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit.

Like Me is Jason’s latest comic offering set to hit the road, and is sure to be ‘expert observational comedy’ (The Guardian) mixed with ‘comic gold’ (Mail on Sunday). Delivered with Jason’s amiable charm and captivating wit, this is a show not to be missed.

Jason said: “After the fun we had on my last tour Muddle Class, I’m excited to get back on the road with my new stand up show, Like Me. In these trying times it’s always important to be able to get away for a

couple of hours and exercise the old chuckle muscle! So I’m coming to a venue near you in 2021 so we can have a good laugh together. See you then.”

Jason Manford is one of the nations most established comedians, appearing regularly on our screens in First & Last (BBC One), The Masked Singer (ITV1), What Would Your Kid Do? (ITV1), The Olivier Awards (ITV1), Scarborough (BBC One), 8 out of 10 Cats (Channel

4), The Nightly Show (ITV1), Sunday Night at the Palladium (ITV1), Live at the Apollo (BBC One), Have I Got News For You, (BBC One), QI (BBC Two) and The Royal Variety Performance (ITV1).

Tickets are priced at £37 and are now on general sale.

Tickets can be purchased online, from the Sales and Information Centre, Riverside Chambers, Full Street, DE1 3AF or by calling 01332 255 800. Age guidance 14+.

Pop icons including Cher, Tina Turner, Calvin Harris, the Village People, Shania Twain and many more will have you dancing in the aisles, transporting you from Las Vegas to Las Palmas in a show where Madonna meets the Moulin Rouge. So leave your excess baggage behind, get dolled up, and dance on!

Prepare for a night you’ll talk about for years with The Lady Boys of Bangkok as they flirt, tease and tempt! You will laugh, rejoice and sing your heart out at a party with hundreds of friends you’ve yet to meet! Deliciously naughty… risqué but never risky… no-one leaves without a smile on their face and a song in their heart.

Tickets are for strictly

over 18’s and are priced at £26.50-£38.

If you book performances on Friday 3rd April or Friday 10th April, you can buy one ticket and get a second ticket free! We also have tickets available at just £17 for the performances on Friday 27th March, and all seats are

only £19.50 at each of the Tuesday shows. You can get your tickets online, by calling 01332 255 800, or at the Sales and Information Centre, Riverside Chambers, Full Street, DE1 3AF.

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How to have a fun-filled time in Skegness Skegness is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK, with amazing beaches and an abundance of local restaurants, but there is so much more to this amazing destination than meets the eye. Fantasy Island is one of the most popular attractions for those on holiday in Skegness, providing a great time for all the family! With rides to please the thrillseekers among us, a shopping market to get all your souvenirs, and a high-class arcade to play with friends and family, there is always

something to sink your teeth into. The Rhombus Rocket.

One of the most popular rides at Fantasy Island, and for good reason, is The Rhombus Rocket! With twists and turns at every sight, it truly is a ride for the adrenaline junkies, and perfect for those looking to step out of their comfort zone.

The Millennium. This is not a ride for the fainthearted! This ride measures 150 ft high, travels a whopping 55.9 mph, features two vertical loops and a sidewinder, and it is guaranteed to make your heart race and your knees go weak!

Log flume. No amusement park is complete without a log flume, and Fantasy Island is no exception. Sail your way to the top, and then plummet to the water below at a breathtaking speed. This ride is fun for all the family, as long as you don’t mind getting a bit wet!

The Magic. You will also find magic here at Fantasy Island. Maybe not wandwaving, potion brewing magic, but magic of a whole different kind. The Magic ride takes you up on a swirling adventure, leaving you amazed and dazed at the same time!

The Twister. The Twister brings the nostalgia of a funfair directly to an amusement park! One of the most popular rides at Fantasy Island, each summer sees families having the time of their lives on The Twister.

Give it a go!

With events running throughout the summer season, there is something for everyone to enjoy, so start organising next year’s trip today!

Goshawk success and reduction in wildlife crime frames 2019 bird of prey picture in the Peak District The Peak District Bird of Prey Initiative has published its 2019 breeding season report.

The report brings together data on key birds of prey or ‘raptors’ nesting within the Dark Peak - a largely upland region of the Peak District National Park. Results from the 2019 season include the fledging of goshawks from all eight nests monitored within the study area, along with the return of hen harriers once again to a nest in the Peak District. This news was tempered by the death of one of the two young hen harriers a few days after fledging, from what are thought to be natural causes. The second youngster and both adults were also not seen again from about the same time. Of particular note was that two of the eight successful goshawk nests monitored saw the first confirmed fledging following around two decades of failed attempts in the same locations, with co-operation on the ground between raptor groups and gamekeepers supporting the successful results. Cases

of reported wildlife crime activity against raptors in the study area also dropped from several incidents in 2018, to one suspected buzzard poisoning case plus one suspected theft of young from a peregrine nest in 2019.

One further peregrine nest was deserted for unexplained reasons following egglaying. Challenges remain for the peregrine in the study area. There were just five confirmed nesting attempts, with seven chicks fledged from three successful nests.

Whilst 11 merlin nests achieved 41 fledged young, well above target and high enough to encourage an increase in the population, the number of breeding pairs remains unstable and saw an overall drop of a third on year-on-year averages since

2012, with both unsuccessful nests and vacant territories recorded. The reasons for these declines remain unclear, but are in line with wider UK trends. More than 40 young short-eared owls also hatched in 2019, from about a dozen nests within the study area, though unfortunately many are thought to have subsequently died before fledging due to poor weather.

Although not part of the project’s focus, one of the UK’s largest raptors, the red kite, also bred at a location in the south of the National Park, bringing welcome news. This is the first confirmed breeding of red kite in the Peak District for over 150 years. Sarah Fowler, chief executive of the Peak District National Park said: “Whilst these remain challenging times for birds

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Path improvements mean it’s

easier than ever to explore Ullswater

Improvement works have recently been completed at either end of the Ullswater Valley to make these paths more accessible than ever.

The path from the car park at Pooley Bridge to the lake shore has recently been improved to even out the surface and widen it in places to make it easier for people with assisted wheelchairs and prams to be able to access the water’s edge.

Lake District National Park Authority Project Ranger, Val Edmondson said: “This part of the Ullswater Way has suffered storm damage and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to make sure it remains one of our

accessible ‘Miles without Stiles’ routes. It’s ideal as the car park is so handy and there are bus stops close by and this path allows easy access down to the water to enjoy the spectacular views. Families with young children and people with limited mobility will undoubtedly benefit from the work we’ve done here.”

And, at the opposite end of the lake, the popular path from Cow Bridge car park along the lake shore at Brothers Water to Hartsop Hall has also recently been enhanced.

This path suffered from weather damage which destroyed the drainage ditches and meant the path washed out in places and damaged the

surface. This has now been repaired.

The improvements have been welcomed locally.

Sam Bunting, local resident and Parish Councillor commented: “The Miles without Stiles initiative is brilliant! As a disabled mother with active young children, it’s wonderful that there are accessible, short walks on our doorstep that we can enjoy together as a family.”

The improvement works have been carried out by local firm Siba Contracts working closely with National Park Rangers and Volunteers, and the routes are now open and ready for use.

There are 48 Miles without Stiles routes throughout the Lake District National Park, all of which are routes suitable for people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users, families with pushchairs, and the visually impaired. See all our Miles without Stiles routes to plan a walk as part of our #NewViewNewYou.

of prey in the Dark Peak, a positive return site visits between gamekeepers and raptor to breeding for such an iconic species as the monitoring workers. goshawk gives us cause for cautious optimism.

"Coupled with a reduction in reported incidents of illegal activity in 2019 - after a troubling series of cases last year - this demonstrates that partnership working with those who manage our upland moorland, raptor working groups and increased awareness amongst our upland communities can deliver results. My thanks to all who have contributed to creating this positive momentum for our birds of prey in the Dark Peak.

"We remain concerned for the peregrine falcon and will be working closely with police wildlife crime officers during the winter to ensure that all partners and agencies are ready to minimise the impacts of illegal activity next season.

"We look forward to working hard with all the Initiative partners to build upon the positive results seen in 2019, as we head into a new breeding season and decade."

For the 2020 season, the Initiative has said its focus will include measures to deter peregrine egg and young theft alongside the police, encouraging earlier sightings and reporting and increasing joint

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Getting Married Abroad the Pros and Cons Thinking about marrying abroad but worried that your grandparents won’t be able to make it? Perhaps your close friends and family can’t afford an overseas holiday or

maybe you’d rather just get away on your own. Weigh up your options here with our list of pros and cons to help you decide. The biggest issue with getting married abroad tends to be that not everyone on your guest list will

be able to make it. So if your grandmother has always dreamed of being at your wedding but is unable to travel, don’t be surprised if she seems upset when you drop the bombshell that you’ve decided to get married abroad.

Do reassure anyone who can’t make it that you’ll have a second reception when you’re back in the UK. Pros You’ll be able to take your vows in the open air and celebrate your special day in an exotic or unusual location, with different food, flowers and music to complement your wedding.

Getting married abroad can often be less expensive than the average British

wedding. Many couples buy their own tickets and, while the bride’s family may pay for the wedding package, it’s acceptable for guests to pay their own way.

You can invite just a small handful of family and friends to the wedding, so you’re only with people that you really want to celebrate with.

It’s the ideal excuse for not inviting your 20 odd cousins and all their children.

Alternatively, you can jet off alone and get married in a romantic, private ceremony, just the two of you. If you book through a travel operator, they’ll do practically all the organising, leaving

you plenty of time for dress shopping and planning your honeymoon! If you’d rather be totally involved in the planning process, you can opt for a tailor-made wedding.

Cons Friends and family might not be able to afford to travel abroad, or be able take the time to go further afield.

You might upset people who’ve been left off your list – but you may be able to ease some disappointment by having a big bash when you get home. You won’t have as much control over the organising as you would at home. You might end up regretting not inviting family

members if you jet off alone.

If it’s just the two of you, you’ll need to rope in a stranger to act as witness.

Although your wedding abroad may work out cheaper initially, if you put on a second reception in the UK for all those who couldn’t make it, you can end up paying as much or more than you would have done if you’d married in the UK in the first place!

Even if you head for tropical climes, you can’t guarantee sunny weather.

And remember, unless you head off for a second week somewhere else, you might be stuck on honeymoon with your friends and family!

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How to get an upgrade on your honeymoon!

Getting married isn’t just about going on honeymoon, but it sure is an exciting plus to the whole shebang! But how do you go about milking the special occasion for all its

worth?

Everyone loves an upgrade and if you can’t get one when you’re going on your honeymoon then when can you? It’s the perfect

opportunity to be pampered and spoiled, especially after all the stress of the wedding planning is over. Calling first class!

There are so many moments

The Loft Salon The Loft Salon is an up and coming trendy salon in the heart of Nottingham City Centre on Trinity Square.

They are Bridal Hair and Make up experts.

But do not take our word for it........ Here is what their customers say ‘Dana did the hair for me and my bridesmaids for my wedding last month, the

results were amazing, we all looked fantastic and Dana was so friendly and helpful throughout both the trial and the day itself! It was just like having a friend there with us, Dana is so knowledgeable and experienced everything went perfectly!!

Dana & Michala.

What can we say, you made us feel like absolute princesses.

Your are professional, talented and full of amazing witty banter. From the trial to the big day we felt comfortable and at ease. You created the most perfect looks from Brides to bridesmaids and even mother of the brides.

Hair and Makeup remained flawless all day and would

100% recommend for any special occasion.

Thank you for being a part of our special day.

Michala thanks again for the TicTacs.

Emily & Rebecca.

Amazing and knows exactly what she is doing without even thinking about it .. really cannot recommend enough xx

where you might be able to wangle an upgrade when you go on honeymoon. The first is the flight. This is a lot easier to accomplish if you haven’t booked a package deal through a high street travel agency. If you’ve booked flights and accommodation separately then turning up at the airport in your finest clobber, rather than like a scruff bag (albeit a very comfy one), is a great way to find yourself boosted up to First or Business class.

This is an important fact to consider as the area you want to be moved into is usually full of very well-heeled people. The next step is to arrive at the airport early. This gives you the best opportunity of nabbing any last-minute upgrades. Don’t forget to check again when you reach the gate in case an upgrade has become available since you checked-in.

Another hot tip for making it more likely to receive an upgrade is to fly on a Saturday as this is when business travellers are usually at home,

meaning you have less competition. Tell the world you’re here for your honeymoon. Once you’ve made it to your honeymoon destination the next step towards getting an upgrade is to tell everyone that you’re on your honeymoon! It’s important to do this at the right time though. Telling businesses that you’re going on your honeymoon when you make the booking tends to hike the prices up. So, you’re better off waiting until you hit the runway to mention that you’re newly-weds on honeymoon.

If you’re staying in a hotel then mention at check-in that you’re on your honeymoon and ask if there are any honeymoon suites available for you to upgrade to or if there is anything they can do for you to help make your honeymoon more memorable.

Then as you go about making your precious memories whilst you are away, you need to keep speaking up.

Tell everyone you meet

that you’re there on your honeymoon. You never know, it might lead to a couple of free glasses of champagne over dinner at any of the restaurants you might visit!

The same can be said for any activities, excursions or day trips that you intend to do whilst you’re away. Live like an A-lister.

Of course, before you even get to this stage you need to decide on where to go!

If you’re at a loss for ideas, other than knowing that you want the A-list treatment, then take a leaf out of @ RocknRollBride’s book. She says that ‘If you’re looking to really go all out on your honeymoon, to have a once in a lifetime experience and to truly live it up like a rock star, then the Maldives has to be top of your list.’

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Support smokefree sidelines at your local football club Smokers who cheer on family and friends playing football are being encouraged to leave cigarettes and vape pens at home to create Smokefree Sidelines across the Borough.

Rushcliffe Borough Council, Rushcliffe Clinical Commissioning Group and Nottinghamshire FA are encouraging more spectators to act as positive role models and not smoke when attending games or training involving both children or adults participating in the sport.

It’s part of the authority’s drive to ensure sports clubs are healthy and inclusive places, where the wellbeing of all, but particularly children and young people, is a priority.

Vaping is included in the initiative to help guard against younger age groups being exposed to the activity which still carries a health risk.

The campaign is empowering parents and club officials to report smoking or vaping on the sidelines or in the view of children to a nominated club official who can highlight the

campaign and what it is trying to achieve.

Prominent local clubs including West Bridgford C o l t s , Keyworth U n i t e d , Edwalton Cavaliers, Cotgrave Colts, East Leake Bantams and Radcliffe Olympic have pledged their support to the scheme installing banners at their respective grounds and players are now wearing campaign bibs during training to spread the message.

Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Deputy Leader Cllr Debbie Mason said: “It’s heartening to see so many clubs commit to this project that will provide even further protection from smoking to young people and all footballers when they take to the field. “We know the vast majority of family members and spectators who watch local

sport are always good healthy role models, but this effort is helping even more play their part in being responsible spectators.” Rushcliffe CCG GP Jeremy Griffiths said: “Children copy what they see and if their Mum or Dad smokes they are three times more likely to start smoking with 2/3 of adult smokers starting before age 18. “This initiative gives parents the chance to help their child to not start smoking, by making their club ground a healthier place to enjoy playing and watching football. “At the same time, it encourages smoking parents or carers

to seek out help to join the rising number of quitters across Notts who by stopping improve their chances of avoiding cancer, heart and lung disease. And that is a win for everyone!”Football Development Manager at Nottinghamshire FA, Marc Birkett said: “Nottinghamshire FA are proud to be working with partners to promote healthy lifestyles and make a positive impact on the grassroots football environment.

“It will be great to see this project develop as more clubs become involved and we hope this programme can roll out across the county in the future. ”There is a wide range of free support that can be accessed to help quit smoking. The most effective way to quit for good is to use the local stop smoking service, which is normally free of charge. Visit www. nhs.uk/smokefree or call Smokefree Life Nottinghamshire on 0115 772 2515.

Basic protective measures against the new coronavirus Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. COVID-19 is still affecting mostly people in China with some outbreaks in other countries.

Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.

Take care of your health and protect others by doing the following: Wash your hands frequently Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or

using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.

Maintain social distancing Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth.

From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Practice respiratory

hygiene. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene.

This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early. Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance.

Follow the directions of your local health authority.

Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility.

This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.

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LIFE COACHING? LIFE CHANGING! Overwhelmed?

Stressed?

Unfulfilled? Life coaching can help. For many of us, life often seems to be a constant battle to juggle work and family, coping with the needs of children and aging parents. So often we struggle to see how we can make improvements and find it difficult to keep on track with plans we have made.

This is where a life coach can help us move forward more quickly and productively than on our own.

According to Life Coach, Karen MacDuff, “Life coaching can create positive changes. It helps people achieve happier, more fulfilled lives in which they can cope with their difficulties as well as unlocking their potential and realizing new

ventures and achievements.

Even small changes can have profound, positive, energizing effects on well-being, lifestyle and careers.” More people than ever are beginning to realise the benefits of working with a life coach to cope with their difficulties and achieve their aspirations.

For decades, life coaching was only available to those in elite corporations or those who could afford the high cost of coaching sessions.

Thankfully, life coaching is now becoming more mainstream and affordable.

Using a variety of methods, including skilled questioning and visualization, coaches help clients challenge negative thinking whilst supporting and encouraging them to overcome obstacles

and create positive changes.

All aspects of our lives can be helped, whether they be specific individual one -off problems, long standing difficulties or a desire to follow a dream.

Truly remarkable things can occur through small changes and challenging misconceptions.

Life Coaching can help us all to reconsider how we cope with our difficulties, and take back control of our lives: making time for ourselves and regaining a sense of purpose, calmness and wellbeing.

The author is a life-style development coach with additional specialisms in educational motivation and career transition.

She is also a teacher and writer of educational books. www. lifecoachkaren.co.uk info@ lifecoachkaren.co.uk

We cannot open a magazine these days without reading about yoga; but why all the fuss and what’s it all about?

Yoga is an Indian philosophy that dates back thousands of years. The Sanskrit word yoga means unite and it was practised to create the union of the physical body, mind and spirit in order to reach enlightenment.

Different paths of yoga were created in order to reach this state.

One of these paths was called

Hatha yoga and its purpose was to develop the body in preparation for further spiritual practice. These days, particularly in the west, we practice Hatha yoga. Classes largely focus on health and fitness but still with attention on how we feel in both our bodies and minds. This is achieved using physical exercises (asana), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation and relaxation.

Yoga really is for everyone

and teachers are taught to be inclusive and modify postures to suit the needs of individuals. However, classes are available for different abilities.

If you have mobility issues, you can try yoga in a chair or a gentle yoga class. Some classes specialise in teaching children and also senior citizens.

At the other end of the scale, Ashtanga yoga is a more physically challenging, fast flowing yoga. Yoga is also not meant to be competitive and students are encouraged to listen to their bodies. The benefits of yoga are immense.

It helps us to relax, release tension from our bodies and to deal with stress. It gives us energy, makes us stronger and more supple. It can also complement other forms of exercise, by using the muscles in a different way.Yoga is often recom-mended to alleviate physical symptoms of certain health conditions. If you are looking for a class suitable for your needs, local publications and websites such as www. localyogaclasse.co.uk, list classes in your area. For further information contact Jackie Hart at jemyoga7@ gmail Tel 0781 667 9919.

Yoga for Everyone

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St Giles School celebrating successful Ofsted rating Parents, pupils and staff at St Giles School in Retford are celebrating after Ofsted reports that it continues to be rated a ‘Good’ school.

Ofsted said, “Pupils are happy to come to St Giles School, staff use their skills to make sure that all pupils’ needs are met” and that “staff have high expectations of what all pupils can achieve.”

Following the inspection last month, inspectors reported

“pupils behave well at social times and during lessons. As a result, the school is a positive place to learn.

“Pupils have a strong voice in the school” and that “Pupils feel listened to and know that their opinions matter.”

A pupil told inspectors that, “Staff are supportive and help us when and where they can.

They never fail.”

Inspectors noted that subjects were planned and taught

consistently. The inspectors added that safeguarding was effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding.

School leaders are particularly pleased because the recent inspection is the first since an Interim Executive Board (IEB) replaced the school’s governing body.

The IEB put in place a plan to significantly improve areas of concern, including changes to the curriculum, better training and support for staff, more effective communication with parents, and appointing a new head of school with the necessary passion, vision and determination to turn things around.

Chris Levy, Chair of the school’s Interim Executive Board (IEB) said: “I am delighted to have received an Ofsted report that clearly recognises the care and commitment to the pupils at our school. I am incredibly proud that they refer to the way our pupils are cared for and supported, in addition to broad and rich education they receive at St Giles.

“For the past two years there has been a consistent and concerted effort by leaders and the whole staff team to address parental concerns and there has been commitment from all involved to ensure that St Giles is a school where

every child can reach their dreams.”

Head of school, Matt Rooney, said: “We’re really proud of this report and it is a privilege to be a part of such an amazing school. I would like to thank our fantastic children and families and all of our staff for their ongoing commitment to St Giles. We are school for our incredible pupils and as such will always have the highest aspirations for them. I want St Giles to be a ‘life-maker’ for our pupils and a place that empowers them to reach their dreams! I am confident that we will continue our good work and keep going on the path towards delivering an outstanding provision for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities.”

Commenting on the report, Councillor Philip Owen, Chairman of Children and Young People’s Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council said “I would like to congratulate the new leadership, the IEB and all the children and parents for the excellent progress made in the past couple of years.

They should all be very proud.”

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£1.7 million funding boost for young children’s care in Nottinghamshire Early years childcare will receive a £1.7 million funding early years funding providers in Nottinghamshire boost in 2020-21. The increase in was approved by the County Council on 12 February following a government announcement to increase allocations for early years places to councils from 1 April 2020.

While some other local authorities are diverting unspent childcare funding to plug budget gaps in other areas, Nottinghamshire County Council is using a significant amount from funding provided by central government for local childcare services.

This means that extra money will go to childcare providers, increasing the hourly rate they receive for eligible 2-year olds

and for 3 and 4-year-old children.

Karen Richards, Chair of the Nottinghamshire Early Years Consultation group said: “This is extremely welcome news. The cost of providing childcare continues to increase for many different reasons, including the planned increase in the national minimum wage and national living wage in April this year.

“I’m pleased that more funding will be released to the childcare sector, which will help providers to meet their rising costs.”

An additional £200,000 is also available next year for

Nottinghamshire County Council to fund a range of services and activities designed to support and develop the early years workforce. Nottinghamshire County Council plans to use its resources to fund more professional early years staff so that they can better support 2, 3 and 4-year-old children.

Councillor Philip Owen, Children and Young people’s Committee Chairman said: “I’m pleased that we have agreed to release this

extra money to support childcare in Nottinghamshire.

“Caring for children is a very valuable job. Many parents rely on childcare workers, and we need to ensure that this area gets the funding it needs.

“At a time when many other councils are cutting back or diverting funding from this area, I’m happy to say that we are bucking the trend, to help support this vital work.”

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Want to advertise here? call: 0115 6972670 Putting the Individual at the Centre of Care A.C.C.E.S.S. 2016 Ltd Home Care Company has a clear outlook when it comes to care – they put the individual at the centre of the care they provide. They are a home care company based in Sutton in Ashfield, covering the Ashfield area. Heather and Jeanette, senior staff members at A.C.C.E.S.S 2016 Ltd, explained that the company promotes independent living, stability and peace of mind for all their service users, their families and their friends. They encourage full family participation in the development of the individuals care plan.

Manager, Sara, said: “Each of our service users are treated as individuals and encouraged to regain their independence and life in their community whether its trips out to local towns, garden centres, coffee shops or attending family member’s weddings, A.C.C.E.S.S facilitate it all.

“Our staff treats each individual like a member of their own family, they are interested in the person’s life so far and what they would

still like to achieve, be it with a little assistance.”

Our clients are full of praise for the company. Their comments include: “Really grateful to the exemplary care given.” “Nothing is too much trouble.” “A.C.C.E.S.S 2016 Ltd always go one step and beyond to help.” “The whole team are excellent at problem solving.” “Helpful in all situations.” “The care my

brother receives is exemplary, great care is given to interpret his wishes and staff treat him in a dignified respectful way.” For further information on how we can help your loved ones please call on 07434884161 A.C.C.E.S.S is now recruiting if you want to have the opportunity to come and work for our great team please call 07434884161

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YOUNG AND OLD SHARE LOVE FOR READING ON WORLD BOOK DAY Proving that age is no object Moon Day Nursery, Compton Acres, Nottingham, for an when it comes to a love for Nottingham joined the residents at i n t e r- g e n e r a t i o n a l books, children from Paper Ruddington Manor in Wilford, near afternoon of fun and storytelling.

The event coincided with World Book Day, which takes place annually on 5 March, and saw a group of six pre-school children aged three and four from the day nursery visit the care centre to share stories with the residents and enjoy an Alice in Wo n d e r l a n d - s t y l e afternoon tea party with mini sandwiches and cakes.

The afternoon was great fun for all; with residents from Ruddington Manor enthralling the children with readings from their favourite books and the children surprising and delighting the residents by dressing up as characters from their favourite stories

and performing songs and dance routines.

Wellbeing coordinator at Ruddington Manor, Amy Simpson, commented: “You are never too old or too young to appreciate a well told story, and our residents continue to be avid readers, sharing and swapping books with each other on a regular basis. This special activity for World Book Day gave them the opportunity to delve back into some classic children’s favourites and take delight in reading to the youngsters who really loved their storytelling session.”

Nursery manager Kerry Sheppard commented: “We join the residents at Ruddington Manor on a regular basis and to be able to celebrate World Book Day was a great opportunity that we just couldn’t miss. Our pre-schoolers love books, listening to and telling stories is a daily occurrence at nursery. The children carefully chose their favourite books with staff to share with the

residents who really enjoyed immersing themselves along with the children into the imaginative world created by the books. Seeing the children and residents together sharing their love of books was just magical. Sharing and reading of stories is such a beneficial inter-generational activity, imagination and a creative mind is all that’s needed.

We know that visiting the residents in our community is having a positive impact on our children and gives us the opportunity to discuss respect and understanding for older people in our society” Ruddington Manor is an

expertly designed, state-of-art 66-bed care facility with an exceptional clinical offering, including residential, nursing and dementia care services.

The care home features elegant private bedrooms with en suite wet rooms, stylish communal lounges and dining rooms, plus secure beautifully landscaped gardens.

For further information, or to arrange a viewing, please contact home manager Tracy Johnston on 0115 981 5956 or email enquiries@newcarehomes. com. Alternatively, please visit www.newcarehomes. com.

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It’s a dog’s life. So what is life without a dog in your life? as a nation of dog lovers there are millions of pampered pooches in the UK. If you have owned a dog, you know of the unconditional love they give you. Many people have lost a dog too and miss the company they give us.Do you long to have the companionship of a fury friend but don’t feel able to take on the full-time responsibility? A dog can bring us so many benefits; it has shown to reduce stress, increase social and physical activity and can give people a sense of purpose. It’s a great way to socialise and meet other dog owners as well as an easy way to exercise.

Would you like to open your heart and home by looking after a guest dog? Animals at Home Nottingham require more ‘hosts’ to do just that.

Here in Nottingham we have been providing first class pet care since 2008 and have

many happy clients using our services. Dog home boarding has grown year on year as an excellent alternative to kennels so demand for more ‘hosts’ has grown. Being a ‘Host’ is providing a dog with a loving home environment while their owners are away can be so rewarding not to mention the unconditional love you get from a dog.

‘Hosting’ would suit people that love dogs, work from home or are retired and in return you get all the benefits of having a dog within your home when it suits you and without the emotional or financial responsibilities. There are no special requirements other than your home meets the required standard to look after a dog. In return, as well as enjoying the company of a dog you will also be covered by our liability insurance,

have full training and receive 24-hour support should you need it. All you need to do is supply a loving home for the dog. Being a host would not be every week as demand fluctuates throughout the year and you only look after dogs that suit your lifestyle. You are not committing to any contract and you decide on the type, size or breed of dog you want to look after, you host as little or as much as you like. Animals at Home pet care services was established in 2003 and has grown nationally to be one of the biggest pet care companies in

Improvements to major adaptations for disabled people Older or disabled people who need major adaptations making to their home will benefit from a new system approved by the County Council. Major adaptations, such as the installation of stair lifts, hoists or lifts help people with mobility issues to continue living at home.

Occupational Therapists assess a person’s needs and, if they recommend any adaptations, they currently get at least two quotes for the work. The householders are then inconvenienced by two different company surveyors and an Occupational Therapist coming to measure up their home for feasibility. Under the new system, which will be established by the County Council and District Councils, there will be one company countywide who will provide all adaptations made via the Disabled Facilities Grant. This will reduce the inconvenience for service users, as only

one provider will need to visit their home. It is estimated that there will be savings of over £67,500 a year which can be used to fund more equipment for others who need it. Councillor Tony Harper, Chair of the County Council’s Adult Social Care and Health Committee, said: “We want to help people to stay living independently in their community for as long

as possible. By working with District and Borough Councils to change the system, we will be able to make things easier for people who have adaptations and also use the savings to pay for equipment for more people.”

The Council will go out to tender for the provider and it is planned that the new contract will be in place by April 2020.

the UK. The company has won awards and is a member of the Pet Industry Federation and have training qualifications through the City and Guilds skills. If you are interested in more information about hosting please call Sharon or Paul on 07521942406 or 01158769256 or email us at aahnotts@ gmail.com for a friendly chat or go to www.animalsathome. co.uk/nottingham

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Horsley Lodge Golf Club in Derbyshire has reached its thirty year milestone in 2020

It was a bold move back in 1988 when John Salt, a local farmer, decided to diversify into golf and a design a golf course on his land. John had the idea whilst walking the land with a retired golf professional who suggested the lie of the land would form a great golf course. He told the

Richard Odell (General Manager)

old pro, Bill White, to go and design one. Bill arrived back the next day with a design sketched out on the inside of a cornflake box and the idea was born. It was sons Richard and Malcolm who took up the challenge and created over the next two years a course which originally was to be a good value pay and play. However, the demand from local golfers to become members of a club on the newly constructed course, led the brothers to form Horsley Lodge Golf Club which opened in April 1990. There was not much there in those early days, no clubhouse, no trees, no car park. Also to begin with there

was no electricity, water, gas or sewerage. The members had nine holes to play on in the first year and a driving range to practice on. The next phase was to construct a clubhouse from the old manor house which stood in the middle of the estate. Once refurbished, the mayor at the time opened the clubhouse in October 1990, and the next challenge then was to get the next 18 holes ready for play in April the following year.

Another opening ceremony on April 1st 1991 saw the first 18 hole competition on the new Horsley Lodge course.

During the following years the club gained popularity as a good golf establishment and a great place to eat and drink; a reputation which has grown over the intervening years. A radical move came in the late 1990s when the original greens proved to be not robust enough for modern golf and were all ripped up to be replaced by big modern USGA sand based greens. Re- designed by Peter McEvoy the former World Champion golfer, this move then promoted the club to the higher echelons of Derbyshire golf. Today the club still

boasts a full complement of over 600 members, and the course one unrecognisable from those early days, with mature trees over 40 feet high and well contoured and manicured greens and fairways. The layout remains however, almost identical to the original “cornflake box” one. The club now sits proudly on top of most golf rankings in the midlands, whilst over the years the Horsley Lodge name has become a well trusted one for dining out either at the restaurant or at weddings and events. The hotel now proudly hosts twelve individual themed rooms in the main club house plus two cottages on site which double up as honeymoon suites. Still under the same ownership, Horsley Lodge continues to thrive now under the watchful eyes of General Manager Richard Odell, who steers the Club on behalf of the Salt family, in an ever competitive world of golf and hospitality.

John Salt (Past Captain of Derbyshire Captains)

To commence his club’s 30th Anniversary, Past Captain of Derbyshire Captains John Salt will be hosting “The SALT AM AM” Golf Tournament. May 29th 2020.

This is an ‘Open’ Competition – 4-ball event with all golfers (with ‘Congu’ handicaps) welcome. If you are interested in playing please cut out the entry form below and send it along with your £200 entry to – Tom Davies (Membership Coordinator) Horsley Lodge Golf Club, Smalley Mill Road, Horsley, Derbyshire, DE21 5BL. Call 01332 780838 or visit www.horsleylodge.co.uk

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Coronavirus: Preventative measures Turnstile operators to wear protective gloves.

We’ll be implementing precautionary measures at our upcoming home matches to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Our turnstile operators will be wearing protective gloves and we’re asking supporters to hold out their season card/match ticket for it to be scanned, rather than passing it to the operator.

The welfare of our supporters, staff and players is of utmost importance to us and we will continue to take advice from the government and appropriate governing bodies on this issue.

We support the practical steps which have already been taken, such as the retraction of prematch handshakes, and would encourage everyone attending our matches to follow the advice being offered by medical experts to help combat the spread of the virus.

We’ll continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to our supporters when and if appropriate.

Bostock Could be the Man to Get Forest Over the Line Given the recent injury woes across the Nottingham Forest midfield, John Bostock’s inclusion and subsequent quality performances could be crucial to the promotion cause at the City Ground.

The 28-year-old, who’d not started a game for the Reds prior to the trip to Sheffield Wednesday, was the one positive to be taken from the embarrassing defeat to Millwall in front of the SKY cameras.

Bostock’s emergence in the side a Forest couldn’t have come at a better time with Tiago Silva and Samba Sow being out of the team due to their respective injuries.

At the time of writing, Sabri Lamouchi’s men are

gearing up for their trip to Hillsborough, with the possibility of Sow returning to the fray. Silva, however, isn’t expected to return until late March/early April.

Given the response from our supporters, it would appear, that John Bostock should be starting against the Owls even if Samba Sow is fit.

Bostock has a bit of momentum of late, if only from the bench, whereas Sow is coming in cold from yet another injury set back.

I fully agree too, despite the phenomenal impact that Samba Sow has had on the team when fit, Bostock has earned a start in the Nottingham, Forest side.

Although, the Reds are

still well placed in the top six, there’s an obvious undercurrent of apprehension among the fanbase and it’s completely justified too.

The dreadful home form is the primary issue, but when coupled with the injury list of late, it’s indeed a cause for concern.

Going forward, it’s the ideal opportunity for Bostock, who’s on loan from Toulouse until the end of the season.

He, and his adopted club, have just nine games left, excluding the play offs to make an impact. If John Bostock can indeed stamp his authority on the remainder of the Championship campaign, it will do his own career the world of good, whilst

possibly getting Forest back to the Premier League in the process.

Despite the odd wobble, the Reds have been very solid across the back four and in the defensive midfield area. The glaring observation has been the lack of creativity from the attacking midfield, hence the clamour for João Carvalho to be selected. So, the illness contracted by Tiago Silva is also Carvalho’s opportunity to rectify this issue and do what he’s capable of.

It’s quite ironic, because the manner of the defeat to Millwall, coupled with the injuries of late, really has dented the confidence of many Forest supporters. But squads are there to be utilised and

I believe the home straight of the season is the perfect opportunity for such players turn a negative into a positive.

Had Samba Sow been fit all season I don’t think we’d be talking about John Bostock at all right now.

The Malian’s impact on the Nottingham Forest side has been immense, up until the West Bromwich Albion away game he’d played in eighteen Championship games and lost just the one. His talent is undeniable but his ability to stay free from injury is questionable, which makes Bostock’s arrival on the scene more reassuring.

I fully understand the trepidation of our supporters whenever Samba Sow is

absent from duty, especially, given that Ryan Yates and Alfa Semedo have failed to perform consistently when called upon. Therefore, I feel that John Bostock could play a huge part in getting Forest over the line this season and securing a play off spot in the process.

Steve Corry

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Armbands Or Laces ??

Wells, North, Brookbanks, Charlton, Akaunu, Moore, Ball, Steggles, Thomas, Blake, Clark, Opoku, Harvey, Garton, Rockley Jennings, Brown, Davie, Robinson, Maddison, Fletcher, Smythson, Otim, Elliott, Johal Carlton Town 2-3 Loughborough Dynamo A cold night,a dark sky on a sodden pitch and over the years the Millers bogey team.

In to town came the Dynamo and again another spanner in the works as the opposition loaded with experience and guile would put themselves right in the face of the Millers.

This one was a tight battle with very little between the two but it would see a doubleedged sword scenario evolve in favour of the visitors as they would take the lead in injury time of the first period.

Three minutes into the second half they would double their lead before the Millers with

their sturdy and never say die approach would pull the game level with goals from Opoku and Clark to set up an interesting final twenty minutes. Both sides would push forward in a tantalising flurry and end to end battle to win the fixture before the twisted blade was thrust in injury time when old boy Danny Gordon would deliver the ball into the box for Deridh to poke home.

Wisbech Town 0-1 Carlton Town A return fixture next to the still struggling Wisbech was next up for the Millers and the hope that they could emulate their goal fest from only a few

weeks ago. Carlton started encouragingly but found the home side very frustrating to break through proving that the opposition had possibly learnt from the two teams previous encounter as both teams would be scoreless at the break. The Millers came out in the second half exactly as they had in the first and plugged away against a plucky resolve and were eventually rewarded when Martin Ball would power in and bullet a header at the far post from a corner. With just over twenty minutes to the end of the game the play would become a little bit more aggressive with both teams fighting hard

for the points and during this period the Millers would lose skipper Maddison who prevailed from a challenge with a serious knee injury.

Carlton Town 1-1 Gedling MW (5-4 Pens) With the current bad weather having postponed a whole host of fixtures the millers would finally get an opportunity to take to the field at the home of Radford F.C. This one had taken a lot of organising for various reasons with venues across the city all struggling with ground issues due to the recent storm damage and persistent rain falls.

It was another cold evening and with rain falling during the warm-up another tricky fixture for the Millers was to evolve. A resilient Gedling would show that they had improved considerably since the pre-season meeting and trouncing and would prove as cup-ties do that they had little or no respect for opposition of a higher tier. Gedling set to their task and fought courageously but it was the Millers who would be the most frustrated with many a chance going begging during the first half to put this one to bed. How those chances were rued as two minutes before half time old boy Josh Thornton would nip across the front of the Carlton defence and head home for the lead at the interval. Carlton came out for the second half still

with a lionheart attitude but would still not be able to find the back of the net until two minutes from time when Nial Davie was brought down in the box. Up stepped Aaron Opoku who calmly slotted the ball into the corner of the net to take the game to extra-time and eventually as the teams still couldn’t be divided to penalties.

Carlton Town 2-2 Chasetown So it was back to the league and another tricky evening ahead with the opponents currently in a rich vein of form. This one was as tight as they get with both teams having different theories on how to win a football match.

Chasetown with their long ball tactics time and time again tried to outwit the Millers whilst Carlton with their cut and thrust approach tried to out pass the opposition.

The direct strategy on the night was proving for the most to be the effective one as the visitors would twice take the lead in the fixture.

But as ever the spirit that has been seen all season and the patience within the squad would prove effective enough to see out a draw with a brace of goals from Tyler Blake and the possibilty of a victory as the final twenty minutes were to prove. Another barren month as far as fixtures were concerned due to the adverse weather conditions would

leave a lot of playing surfaces looking more like industrial swimming pools and will now cause a major fixture pile-up towards the back of the season. The Millers still sit in a healthy position within the league albeit a handful of games behind with very little time to fulfil them.

A lot of time and effort is again required and with a similar scenario occurring as of two seasons ago a lot of demands are being put on everybody with this backlog looming.

Surely now the association need to look at climate change and maybe load the front of the season with more fixtures to dissolve this situation.

Forthcoming Fixtures: 10th Mar Market Drayton Town(h) 745pm 14th Mar Glossop North End(h) 17th Mar Belper Town(h) 745pm 21st Mar Stocksbridge P.S(a) 24th Mar Newcastle Town(a) 745pm 28th Mar Cleethorpes Town(h) 745pm 31st Mar Stamford(h)

Article by Phil Jennings

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