Nottingham Now 24

Issue 24 - April - 2020 0115 6972670 - www.nottingham-now.co.uk - sales@nottingham-now.co.uk

FREE

STAY HOME - PROTECT THE NHS - SAVE LIVES

NHS to benefit from £13.4 billion debt write-off

Train Station Plans out for consultation

SEE PAGE 7..

Joining forces in the local community

SEE PAGE 23..

Feel Good Families

recognised in Award

Ceremony

SEE PAGE 21..

SEE PAGE 8..

2

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Council aims to recruit huge team of social care and support workers Viking Lord

The County Council is urging local people to do their bit as it seeks to recruit a huge team of temporary social care and support workers to help battle the coronavirus crisis.

More than 100 social care and support workers are needed to work flexibly around the county providing vital social care to older and disabled people in a range of roles including:

A1 ELECTRICAL SERVICES

JIB Approved Electrician Experienced & Proffessional Light, Sockets, Showers Security Lights Full House Rewires All Work Guaranteed No Job Too Small Free Estimates Telephone Jim

0115 955 2478 07505991757 (24hr)

• phoning vulnerable people • visiting people at home • providing personal care, such as help with getting dressed or washed • ensuring that people are safe and well

“We know that many people in Nottinghamshire want to help during this crisis and this is the perfect opportunity to provide vital social care support where it is needed.

“These roles will make a real difference because they will ensure that there is care available to help support people who are leaving hospital. They will also allow caers to have an important break when they may otherwise be feeling overwhelmed.

and have access to food and medication • working in one of the Council’s residential care services • providing care and support to people who are unable to remain at home.

Melanie Brooks, Corporate Director for Adult Social Care and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council, said:

“Successful candidates will be paid, so this could really suit someone who has unfortunately been forced to stop working because of the current situation. We don’t need people with experience and we will provide training.

“Please do your bit and help us to suport vulnerable local people in this time of emergency.”

Find out more and apply now at www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/adultsocialcarejobs

Tributes paid to local community campaigner

Nottingham City councillors he was a really great example of that. have paid tribute to a local community leader and activist, Leo “He lived and worked in NottingKeely, who died at the weekend. ham all his life. In his working life he was a civil servant and a volunteer Mr Keely was Chair of the Notting- in the trade union movement, in the ham and Nottinghamshire Refu- anti-apartheid movement and he was gee Forum for some years, as well active in Nottingham local politics. as playing an instrumental role in a range of local community campaigns, “He was awarded a lifetime achievefrom keeping The Forest open to ment in the voluntary and commuthe public, and achieving traffic re- nity category of the Nottingham strictions traffic through the Noel Awards in 2017. He volunteered and Street area, to admitting children later chaired the Nottingham and from the local area without qualifi- Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum cations to a local technical school. where I worked with him, as well as He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in the voluntary and community category of the Nottingham Awards three years ago.

City Council Leader, Cllr David Mellen, said: “I am really sorry to hear of Leo’s death and offer my heartfelt condolences to his family and the many friends he made in Nottingham and elsewhere.

“His death comes at a time when we can see how Nottingham cares for those in need and how Nottingham’s communities empower themselves – and

chairing the St Ann’s & Chase Community Centre, among other roles.

“He was always a local community activist with a key role in various campaigns, as well as taking a great interest in community sport. Nottingham benefited greatly from his community spirit and will be the poorer without him.”

Wollaton West Councillor Steve Battlemuch added: “Leo was someone who empowered others, never one to claim credit or hog the spotlight. His passion for Nottingham and civil society nationally and internationally shone through.”

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

3

Nottingham City Council suspends garden waste services due to coronavirus Nottingham City Council is suspending its seasonal garden waste collections that were due to start on the 1st of April until futher notice.

The Council has taken this decision so it can focus resources on the collection of essential general waste and recycling bins.

Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the council has had a reduction in resource within waste services as well as an increase in the amount of waste and recycling being produced by residents as they spend more time at home.

Portfolio Holder for Environment, Cllr Sally Longford, said: “We are suspending the garden waste collection service so we can focus on collecting household waste and recycling bins. We apologise for any inconvenience caused, and we ask residents for their understanding and patience during what is an incredibly challenging time for everyone.

“We are asking all residents not to place garden waste in their general waste bin, or present bagged garden waste as side waste. This would take up vital space in vehicles and jeopardise the council’s ability to maintain a sustainable waste collection for all households.

“We are encouraging its residents to sign up for bin reminders to ensure they are kept up to date with the waste services in their local areas.”

To sign up for bin reminders visit www. nottinghamcity.gov.uk/binreminders Whilst the service is suspended, missed garden waste collections cannot be reported.

What can I do with my garden waste whilst the service is teporarily suspended?

Garden waste materials are not haz-

INGOLDMELLS SKEGNESS Whilst these collections are on hold, why not consider home composting as much of your garden waste as possible? Recycle Now provides information on how to create your own home compost.

Near Fantasy Island and Butlins 6 Berth Caravans to let fully equipped.

2020 Bookings NOW being taken d £30 deposit secured booking £230pw to £400pw inclusive

If you don’t have a home composter, simply store garden waste in a neat heap in the corner of your garden, and keep turning it occasionally (weekly) to keep it aerated.

07900 083 558 07774 586493

ardous if left for longer than two weeks.

Household Recycling Centres The Lenton Household Waste and Recycling Centre, on Redfield Rd, is also closed until further notice.

Leader pays tribute to her council

staff during COVID-19 crisis

Leader

of Nottinghamshire County Council, Councillor Kay Cutts has payed tribute to council staff who are working to keep communties safe during the COVID-19 crisis.

Councillor Kay Cutts said: “We pay tribute to our NHS colleagues who are on the front line delivering essential lifesaving work to treat those who need care at the most critical points in their lives.

“Of course, you don’t need to be wearing a uniform to be contributing to the national effort. We also ask the public for kindness and not judgement of all of our valued key workers for their efforts to care for the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“Our IT technicians make it possible for the social care workers to access the right systems to make sure they can care for those who need help the most and to share vital information with colleagues.

“We pay tribute to our drivers who deliver the essential supplies, to our cleaners for their vital role in fighting the spread of infection.

“We thank our catering colleagues for their efforts to feed the children of all the key workers at school.

“We thank our County Enterprise Foods colleagues for creating and delivering life-saving food supplies to those who receive our meals on wheels service.

“We ask people not to judge those queuing in the supermarkets during the key worker hour or for dropping their children at the school gates.

They may not be wearing a uniform, but they too are delivering essential services and they deserve our thanks.”

NO TEXTs 0121 308 3879

PET FRIENDLY

4

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Update from Leader of Rushcliffe Slimming World Gillian

We’re in exceptionally challenging times and my sympathies are with, and best wishes go out to, all residents and their families and friends who are in any way affected by this virus.

It’s been heartening to see so many of our communities mobilise local efforts to help those vulnerable, elderly, in need or self-isolating within hours of central government outlining its plans of how to deal with the outbreak at the start of last week. People are setting up very local support networks with neighbours to keep an eye on each other and this is invaluable. If you haven’t already got a WhatsApp group or similar in place for your street please consider setting one up.

Many people have already been helped but

this situation will continue for some time and I would encourage people seeking assistance who haven’t got support in place, or those who wish to volunteer locally, to call the County Council’s Community and Volunteer Hub on 0300 500 8080. They will be co-ordinating this support centrally and then Rushcliffe Borough Council staff will be involved in assisting locally.

Please follow the latest government advice to stay home and save lives, whilst going out once a day if you can for a walk, run or bike ride. Our parks remain open in line with the current advice to support exercise but please remember to follow the guidance to ensure you’re always two metres away from others when in public spaces.

We know livelihoods are also at stake for

so many of our wonderful Rushcliffe business owners and their staff. Our teams are contacting businesses to distribute information on vital business grants. There is also information on our website about this. All those eligible will be contacted in the coming days on how they can receive this support and there will be more help for council tax payers soon too through the central government hardship fund.

It is incredibly challenging for all organisations, not just the public sector but as I have said, businesses and self-employed residents too.

The Council’s senior officers are involved in supporting county wide work with other agencies such as Nottinghamshire County Council, the NHS and Police to provide a joint approach to supporting vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 crisis.

Initial £150 council tax reduction for Rushcliffe residents on low incomes Rushcliffe Borough Council can confirm central government has allocated an initial £150 reduction on annual council tax bills for low-income residents in the Borough as part of its response to COVID-19.

Over 1,800 tax payers will now

receive the reduction on their bills for the 2020/21 financial year, announced as part of £500m of new hardship grant funding nationwide.

The awards will be made as soon as possible and all eligible claimants will receive a confirmation letter.

Residents should not call the Council for further information but email revenues@rushcliffe.gov.uk The government outlined in its Budget on March 11 that it would provide local authorities in England with the fund which has seen Rush-

cliffe allocated £515,389.

This will now further support working-age residents who currently receive help from the council’s Council Tax reduction scheme.

Leader of the Council Cllr Simon

Robinson said: “We’re pleased to announce that under this fund we will be initially awarding a maximum of £150 per household, who are in receipt of Council Tax Reduction from 1 April 2020, towards their Council Tax bill.

“Over 1,800 tax payers should benefit from this and we are actively looking at further council tax support measures that aim to help individuals who are particularly suffering with financial hardship at this difficult time.

“There is no requirement currently for a separate claim under this

scheme. We will assess who is eligible for support from the hardship fund and automatically credit their accounts.

“The awards will be made this week and all eligible claimants will receive a confirmation letter.”

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

5

Borough Council, Cllr Simon Robinson At the Council, staff continue to be redeployed to maintain refuse collection services and ensure that we can pay business grants in a timely way. We are endeavouring to maintain services as normal wherever possible with the latest information on the website.

Thank you to residents for your patience and understanding when you are contacting us. Your spirit has been incredible in the face of such uncertainty and difficulty as we hear of so many who are tackling huge challenges at home and work.

nity, is inspiring. Youngsters creating posters of rainbows of hope and waving at our crews when they carry out the bin collections continues to add a spring to their step.

Please make sure you stay safe and let’s hope we can reach a more stable and safer environment as soon as possible.

My thanks again to all who are safely helping others and very best wishes.

Cllr SJ Robinson

Leader of the Council

For you still to take the time to safely show your thanks and appreciation of services, for example to our waste teams when performing their essential roles in the commu-

Bingham and West Bridgford markets cancelled until further notice

Both the weekly traditional market on a Thursday, and the monthly farmer’s market every third Satuday of the month in Bingham, will no longer be taking place at the Buttercross in the centre of the town.

Equally, the twice monthly Farmer’s Mar-

ket at West Bridgford is also suspended.

Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Debbie Mason said: “After consideration, we have decided to cancel the regular markets in Bingham and West Bridgford.

“We are working closely with market managers to assess where we could

Garolla

provide this invaluable local service through home delivery and collections. We are committed to adapting services where possible whilst prioritising keeping people safe in these unprecedented times.

“We will continue to support our fantastic range of traders however we can to help them return to the market once

we are able to ensure the safety of both them and their dedicated customers.”

6

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Plans Submitted for new Kirkby Leisure Centre

Ashfield District Council has submitted plans for Kirkby’s brand new leisure destination.

Fresh artist impressions of the proposed leisure centre have also now been unveiled.

Following consultation with customers, residents and the general public, the plans have been moulded with the user experience in mind.

The consultation period saw a positive and productive response, providing insight into what is important to all stakeholders.

The Council has worked particularly closely with local residents who live adjacent to the new leisure centre site as part of the planning process.

Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council said: “Today is a landmark day for this project. The new leisure centre will see huge benefits for all corners of our society, especially with its state-of-the-art facility mix.

“As well as the economic and social benefits, the new destination will also enable us to de-

velop high-quality spaces to form a vibrant hub for our community. The plans will create a variety of opportunities for more inclusive programmes for all kinds of groups to be a part of.

“It’s fantastic to see how the plans have evolved throughout the consultation process.

I’m sure that as a result this leisure centre will become a key focal point for our community.”

The

facility

mix

includes:

• Water Space (25m pool with flexible floor and separate leisure water pool) • Sports Hall (inc. Cinema) • Health and Fitness suite with full gym • Two multi activity studios • Group Cycling studio • Well-being toning and Rehabilitation suite • Indoor adventure climbing wall Once planning permission is granted, then work is due to begin in the autumn.

The current Festival Hall Leisure Centre site will remain open during the build of the new leisure facility. Once the centre is open,

Cyber crime advice for people working from home As part of managing the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, many organisations will be encouraging more of their staff to work from home. This presents new cyber security challenges that must be managed.

In addition, cyber criminals are preying on fears of the coronavirus and sending ‘phishing’ emails that try and trick users into clicking on a link to a bad website (which could download malware onto their computer or steal passwords). Like many phishing scams, these emails are preying on real-world concerns to try and trick people into doing the wrong thing.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is urging businesses to keep up to date with the latest guidance on preventing Ransomware attacks and stay vigilant in light of the emerging threats.

The NCSC are regularly updating their website to keep businesses aware of the latest Coronavirus scams - https:// w w w. n c s c . g o v. u k / n e w s / c y b e r - e x perts-step-criminals-exploit-coronavirus.

For practical tips on how to keep your business secure whilst working from home, read this guidance produced by the NCSC - https:// www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/home-working.

7

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

Train Station Plans out for consultation

Ashfield District Council is progressing exciting transport plans it has been working on for the last two years.

The Council is now seeking public feedback on proposed new plans to reopen the disused Maid Marian Line.

The plans will allow the Kirkby and Sutton Parkway stations to benefit from the proposals which would see the line open to passenger trains.

As part of the plans, the two stations could receive significant upgrades, which would include improving accessibility. It is proposed that the railway line could link with the HS2 station at Toton, meaning travellers in Kirkby and Sutton could easily access the high speed route.

The Station Masterplans in particular: • Show how the potential improvements in and around the stations could be capitalised on to create enhanced places and better connectivity for local residents • Consider the sense of arrival at each of the station and identify sites for development around the stations, along with opportunities for public realm improvements • Provide a framework for future private and public investment in the areas around the stations.

Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council said: “Re-opening the mineral line to passenger trains is very easy and is likely to cost very little for the huge benefits it would bring. Improving the stations and their surrounding areas will help bring more people into Sutton and Kirkby, helping support local businesses and retailers.

quired on telephone number 01623 457382 A public consultation on the Sta- or via email at localplan@ashfield.gov.uk tion Masterplans is now available until 5pm on Thursday 9th April 2020.

“It is vitally important for the Council to promote and support the train station locations by taking a positive approach to their improvement. The Kirkby and Sutton Parkway Station Masterplans will be key documents in ensuring we fulfil our aspirations.

Representations should preferably be submitted using the online representation form, to Ashfield District Council, Forward Planning Section.

A copy of the document is available to view on the Ashfield District Council website at www.ashfield.gov.uk/kirkbymasterplans.

The Forward Planning Team are happy to provide further information or assistance if re-

Support for businesses & residents A message from City Council Leader, Cllr David Mellen: Support for businesses Measures to combat the coronavirus are becoming a way of life in the city and will continue for some weeks and months. It is an uncertain time for our local businesses and the council is working hard to support them over this period. We have increased the number of staff working in our Business Support team and they are on hand to offer advice, guidance and help to access grants, loans and relief. We have updated our guidance for Nottingham businesses and included a helpful frequently asked questions section.

Visit www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/ information-for-business Call 0333 006 9178 Email info@d2ndgrowthhub.co.uk

Support for residents Some of us will find that self-isolating means that we need to ask for help, perhaps for the first time. Our Customer Hub number is for anyone that is self-isolating with no one to call upon to help with things like shopping or picking up medication. The Customer Hub is staffed Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm, 0115 915 5555, please do call if you or someone you know needs our help.

For those who are seeking to help others, you can join our volunteers – sign up with our Customer Hub on the number above or donate to our fund www.robinhoodfund.org. A huge thank you to those that have already donated, over £25K has been raised so far for local charities and foodbanks.

Thank you…

Prestige security

8

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Feel Good Families recognised in Award Ceremony At the recent Notts Getting Active Together Awards 2020, Feel Good Families took home an accolade after being shortlisted as a finalist in the Project/ Initiative/Innovation of the Year category.

Feel Good Families is a new initiative developed by Ashfield District Council along with other members of the Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, which is made up of Ashfield Voluntary Action, Everyone Active, Nottinghamshire County Council, Everyone Health, Active Notts, Sutton Academy and Mid Notts Integrated Care

Partnership.

Feel Good Families aim to engage inactive people, encouraging families to play, smile and be active together as a fami-

ly in their local community. It launched July 2019 targeting families with children age 5+, with the aim of providing free or low cost activities, in Ashfield.

Since launching last year, over 400 fami-

lies have signed up to the scheme, with over 1,000 residents benefiting from the free activities which have been running over the past eight months. The free events have included five themed trails around the District’s parks, healthy cooking lessons, craft workshops, dance sessions, and free activities at the District’s leisure centres such as ice skating, swimming and roller skating.

There were several other finalists and one winner from Ashfield, including: • Kevin Henshaw, Starbox Gym in Stanton Hill – winner for the Community Coach/ Activator of the Year Award • Alex Ross and Lisa Morris, Pretty Heavy Lifters in Kirkby in Ashfield - finalist for the This Girl Can Award • Scott Johnson, Acre Young Peoples Centre in Kirkby – finalist for the Commu-

Elegance By Design

nity Coach/Activator of the Year • Sentley Wilson – finalist for Change4Life Award­ The Notts Getting Active Together Awards are run by Active Notts, who is one of the 44 Active Partnerships covering England.

The Notts Getting Active Together awards celebrate the efforts and achievements of individuals and groups who are using physical activity to help improve the lives of people across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Cllr Keir Barsby, Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure at Ashfield District Council, said “it is fantastic that the hard work and dedication of the officers at ADC, and their colleagues from the Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, have been recognised by Active Notts. Feel Good Families is a wonderful initiative that we are very proud of, the fact that over 400 families have signed up to the project just goes to show how valuable it is.”

“Feel Good Families provides the opportunity for our residents to engage in free activities that they might not have had the chance to try before, due to cost.

As a Council we are committed to ensuring that all of our residents have the chance to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, and Feel Good Families is just one of the ways which we are achieving this aim.”

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

T & S Heating

9

10

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Nottinghamshire County Council launch new community fund to help support vulnerable residents during COVID-19 emergency A £1 million community fund to support voluntary groups to help vulnerable people through the COVID-19 crisis has been launched by Nottinghamshire County Council.

Nottinghamshire charities, voluntary and faith groups working hard to support residents impacted by COVID-19 are being encouraged to apply for grant funding of up to £10,000 to help meet running costs and deliver local support to those affected by this public health emergency.

The new fund forms part of the council’s response to give advice and support for communities during the coronavirus outbreak for residents who are self-isolating and vulnerable people who can’t leave their homes.

Duffield Art Gallery

Nottinghamshire County Council Leader, Cllr Kay Cutts, MBE said, “Thank you to all those who are volunteering.

“I’m immensely proud of the response shown by local volunteer groups and aware that there is a huge amount of help and support out there for vulnerable people. This includes volunteers who are cooking and delivering meals, helping with food shopping and other essentials, collecting and delivering prescriptions, or helping keep someone’s spirits up via a phone chat.

“ We hope this funding will help groups continue this vital work to help maintain the morale and well-being of our communities.

“Our priority is to approve grant applications from voluntary projects that are already set up so we help them continue this essential work in the challenging months ahead.

“Given the difficult situation we all find ourselves in, we will ensure that all successful groups receive money as soon as possible and we will keep this emergency funding open for as long as we can, so no one misses out.

“We have made the application process as quick and easy as possible as we know volunteers are working tirelessly to help as many people as they can.”

well as parish or town councils taking an active role in responding to emerging needs in Nottinghamshire communities as a result of COVID-19.

Those successful in getting funding will have their groups details published on the Nottinghamshire Coronavirus Community Support Hub This hub forms another essential part of the council’s response to COVID-19 to give advice and support for communities during the corona-

virus outbreak.

A new searchable database is due to launch soon to help For further information about the funding, please email LIS@nottscc. those who need find gov.uk or call 0115 977 2041 support a local volThis funding is designed to support estab- unteer group lished local charities and voluntary groups, close to them.

To apply go to our dedicated COID-19 web pages www.nottingh a s h i r e . g o v. u k / c o m m u n i t y f u n d

including

faith-based

organisations,

as

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

Milford Care

11

12

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Nottingham From The Air

This month’s aerial photo shows Green’s Windmill at Sneinton. This was built about 1807 and was in use until the 1860’s. It was restored by Nottingham City Council in 1985 and is now part of a science centre. 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.

Two teenagers arrested after Redhill knifepoint robbery

Man arrested following stabbing A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and possession of a bladed article after a man was stabbed several months ago.

It happened in Derby Road at around 9pm on 12 December. The victim was treated in hospital for a stab wound to the stomach but his injuries were not life changing or altering.

The man was arrested earlier today as part of the ongoing investigation and remains in police custody. Officers also seized a knife

Two teenagers were arrested by officers after a knifepoint robbery on Tuesday evening.

Pair charged with drug offences in Top Valley Two men have been charged with production of class A drugs after officers searched a house in Top Valley. Emile Bonnick, 25, of no fixed abode and Jamal Rodney, 26, of Carlwark Gardens in Top Valley, appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (28 March 2020.) The men were arrested on Thursday 26 March 2020 after a large quantity of Class A drugs were found and seized. The arrests came as part of an ongoing operation and the pair have been remanded to prison pending a trial.

The incident happened around 8pm on Redhill Road where a 17-year-old boy was robbed and threatened with a machete.

A bag and earphones was stolen.

Both suspects were located at an address along with the weapon and clothing described.

The boys aged 16 and 17 were arrested under suspicion of robbery. They remain in police custody.

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

13

14

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

15

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

Educational websites and apps to help kids during school closures To slow the spread of coronavirus, schools have closed their doors and parents have found themselves taking on the role of teacher for the foreseeable future. If you’re worried about how to tackle home-schooling your children, then fear not because there is a huge selection of educational websites and free apps specially designed to help kids learn at home. From general reading and writing skills with the National Literacy Trust to language skills with Duolingo.

While many schools across the country are now working to ensure children have access to school work online (via programmes such as Google Classroom) or through paperwork packets you might want to try the following learning websites; BBC Bitesize There’s a reason BBC Bitesize has been around for years. Covering a wide range of subjects with resources for all ages, the free website provides small, digestible lessons tailored to support the

National Curriculum that won’t overwhelm your children. Whether it’s reception ages looking to brush up on their geography skills or A-level history classes, there are plenty of options to choose from. Plus, you can see if the lessons are really working with the tests!

For more information visit bbc.co.uk/bitesize

it on YouTube. Unlike missing a lesson in school, they can easily catch up with missed

work online.

For more information visit busuu.com

Busuu

Another way to keep your children up-to-date with their language lessons is via Busuu, an app built by linguists in London. Its Kids Keep Learning initiative offers free online lessons, in which you simply select a language - such as Chinese or Spanish - and the child’s age group, pick a lesson in your time zone and stream

Hocus Pocus

EMSA

Travelling with your pet Any pet owner will appreciate how stressful it can be to travel with your pets; however there are various ways in which this can be made a pleasanter journey for all.

Travelling with your cat

• The first thing to consider is a suitable

carrier – ensuring that it is secure and big enough for your cat.

• Secondly, ensure your cat has some identification should they manage to escape their carrier. The best option would be to ensure your cat is microchipped as this is a permanent way of identifying them. If it’s your cat’s first journey then a collar and tag will be fine until a microchip is placed.

• Once these things have been organised, the next most stressful thing is getting your cat into its travel carrier – easier said than done! One of the best methods for this is to put your cat in backwards if it is a front loading carrier so they can’t see where they’re going.

• Familiarise your cat with the carrier and perhaps leave it in the house for a few days before they have to travel to get them used to it.

• Once your cat is in the car, please ensure they are secure and that the carrier doesn’t move around as this can be distressing for your cat. It may be worth putting the seatbelt through the handle of the carrier and covering it with a blanket.

Travelling with your dog

• Ensure you have an appropriate seat belt harness or crate for your dog to travel in, as some dogs feel less anxious if they feel more secure in the car. These restraint methods will also keep other occupants in the car safe during travel.

• It’s important to be aware of the laws involved in wearing collars and tags and also the compulsory microchipping which came in to force in April 2016. This is relevant when travelling in case your dog panics and tries to escape before or after the journey.

• For many dogs, the main reason they go in a car is a trip to the vets, hence it can be a stressful time for your dog. It is therefore recommended that you familiarise your dog and change the association that they have with the car. To start this process you can allow your dog to sit in the car whilst it is parked and sit with your dog throughout, providing praise and/ or treats. Once they’re happy to be in the car, you could also try taking them to the beach or the local park, so they will learn a trip in the car isn’t always a trip to the vets.

• Ensure the whole experience is positive for your dog.

Priory Vets

16

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Coronavirus outbreak: cancelled or postponed events

can I get my money back?

The UK government has banned any gathering of more than two people – with the exception of funerals – to fight the spread of coronavirus.

As a result large-scale public events, theatre and cinema shows and personal events such as weddings and parties will not be able to go ahead for the foreseeable future.

Many of us will have purchased tickets for attractions or upcoming live events and sports, or could have paid huge amounts of money for a wedding.

Cancelled events: your consumer rights If you bought your tickets directly from the event organiser or primary ticket retailers, such as See Tickets or Ticketmaster, you will benefit from some consumer protections.

These firms are required by the industry’s self-regulatory body, the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR), to refund the ticket’s face value price when an event is cancelled. But it’s unlikely you’ll get the delivery costs or booking fees back. You may have fewer protections if you purchased tickets from a secondary ticket seller, such as Viagogo or StubHub. Check the terms and

conditions on its website as some companies offer guarantees or other protections. Whichever way you bought your tickets, in the first instance you need to contact the company that sold them to you and request a refund if it doesn’t offer one automatically. if you’re taking part in something like a marathon, a refund of your entry fee is not guaranteed if it is cancelled; instead you will need to check event organiser’s terms and conditions

Postponed events: your consumer rights If an event you have tickets for is postponed, hold on to those tickets until a new date is announced. If you’re unable to attend the rescheduled date, you can claim a refund of the ticket’s face-value price. But again, it’s unlikely you’ll get the delivery costs or booking fees back. Again, you’ll have fewer protections if you purchased tickets from a secondary ticket seller, such as Viagogo or StubHub. Check the terms and conditions on its website, as some companies offer guarantees or other protections. If the you cannot attend the new date, it’s may be that the only way to recover some of your money back will be to resell the ticket to someone else who can. And if an event like a marathon is postponed – and you can’t

make the new date – a refund of your entry fee is not guaranteed. You’ll need to check event organiser’s terms and conditions

The big events affected so far BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend – Cancelled Birmingham Comic Con – postponed until 27 and 28 June 2020. Ticket holders unable to make the new dates should be refunded Cinema closures Cinema chains Odeon, Cineworld and Picturehouse are shutting all their UK screens amid the coronavirus pandemic until further notice.

Champions League – Matches suspended until further notice Edinburgh Festival – Festival organisers say it is refunding all participant registration fees, as well as refunding Fringe tickets and Friends memberships. If you were planning on attending you may want to cancel accommodation and travel plans. All train tickets and most accommodation options are refundable.

Europa League – Matches suspended until further notice UEFA Euro 2020 – postponed until 2021, ticket and package holders who cannot make the new dates will be eligible for a refund Premier League matches – postponed until April 2020 Six Nations – postponed, date TBC The London Marathon – postponed until Sunday 4 October 2020. Anyone unable to make the new date can get a refund Tokyo Olympics 2020 – rescheduled for July 23 to August 8, 2021. Anyone who has purchased a ticket and travel package needs speak to the retailer that they bought it from. The WHO

UK Tour – Cancelled, all ticket holders will be refunded 2021 Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship – suspended until at least 3 April.

Keep hold of tickets until new dates are announced Glastonbury festival 2020 – postponed until 2021, ticket holders unable to make the new dates will be refunded Can you claim back hotel and travel costs?.

If you’ve paid for transport or hotel bookings that you don’t need anymore because your event has been cancelled, get in touch with the companies you’ve booked with.

They might be able to refund you or rebook your plans for a later date. But there are no guarantees. If your hotel and travel plans are also cancelled due to the outbreak of coronavirus you will also be entitled to a refund of those costs. If you have appropriate travel insurance you might be able to claim back the entire cost of your trip.

Can you get a refund if an event is not as advertised?

It depends. If you’ve bought a ticket for a single headline gig, and the headliner doesn’t perform, you should get your money back. But if it’s a festival with multiple acts, you’ll have a ticket for the festival and not an individual performer.

In that instance, don’t expect a refund.

Get money back by other means If your claim is ignored or refused by the tick-

April & May events

CANCELLED

Please check website updates

Ashover Show

eting company you should contact your bank or credit card company (if you paid using a credit card).

Make them aware of your experience and the complaint you’ve made If you paid by credit card – if you’ve bought anything worth more than £100 and less than £30,000 using your credit card you have additional protections if something goes wrong. Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act makes your credit card company jointly liable for any breach of contract (such as an event cancellation) and you can claim your money back directly from it..

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

A1 Plastics

17

18

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Plan ahead for summer with a luxury

holiday home at Fantasy Island

After

what seems like a lifetime, it feels as though winter is finally starting to recline, and the sunnier days will be upon us before we know it.

With this in mind, what better way to start planning ahead for summer than looking into caravan sales and luxury holiday homes in Skegness?

Why a holiday home?

Holiday homes in Skegness are one of the best places to take all the family for a funfilled summer (or even earlier, if you wish!).

Caravans for sale in Skegness are like a home away from home and nestled right next to Fantasy Island itself, it’s just a two-minute walk to be in the midst of all the action.

Bronze, silver and gold holiday homes are available. The gold package, for example, offers the best in luxurious living on the coast, with modern décor, double glazing, central heating and a large decking area, so you can enjoy a spot of sunbathing, or dine alfresco!

Why Fantasy Island?

Going strong for over 20 years, Fantasy Island is an award-winning holiday park on the East coast.

Only the best holiday park would combine

work and leisure into one joyous package.

If you need to take a few hours out to get some work done whilst the rest of the family heads out to enjoy the park, that’s no problem with a holiday home. On the other hand, when it’s time to join in the fun, you’re only minutes away from one of the best amusement parks in the country.

Fantasy Island has it all – rides and attractions for all ages, from the little ones to the older generations. There’s

also amusement arcades, bowling, adventure golf, and a famous market for some shopping, too.

Get in there before it’s too late Skegness caravan sales show no sign of stopping, so it’s a great idea to get in there before it’s too late.

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

Caravan sales increase as people plan to staycation Enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen, relaxing living area, comfortable beds, and for when the sun shines, a nice private outdoor decking area in some of our properties. Any Fantasy Island caravans for sale in Skegness come in a variety of different styles so you can pick based on your budget, as well as your requirements as a family.

It’s no secret we’re experiencing a slightly strange time at the moment. With everything that’s going on, you can be forgiven for looking forward to a time where we’re all able to get out and about and start planning a holiday once everything re-opens.

Holiday home sales, including caravan sales, are on the increase, with people opting for staycations over expensive and non-adviseable travel abroad. Plus, with the surge in good weather, we had last summer, who can blame them? So if you’re feeling a little blue and feel the need to look ahead to happier times that will hopefully soon be here, what better way than to look at the potential for a caravan getaway at the best holiday park in the UK? As an award-winning holiday park, we specialise in luxury holiday homes, which can be a much more viable option than traditional caravans. And here’s why: Comfort and style All our range of holiday homes in Skegness have the comfort of our guests at the front of mind.

Close to the park The holiday homes here positioned pretty much next door to Fantasy Island, so you’re just a stone’s throw away from the park itself.

This means you can enjoy spending time at the park (or beach!) during the day, before retreating back to your holiday home for the evening. It also means you can get back easily and quickly if you need a rest or relax on the outdoor decking in the sunshine with a book and a cold drink at any point during the day. We know how hectic things get so it’s important to take time out, too.

Try before you buy Plus, you can book a stay in order to try before you buy.

Unlike other Skegness caravan sales, you can come and look at the property before making a booking, or looking to invest in ownership, so you know it’s the best option for you. That way, you know what you’re getting before making any sort of commitment.

For more information on the caravans for sale that Skegness has to offer, get in touch. We hope to be opening again and seeing you soon.

Lawson’s Bistro

19

Gullivers Kingdom - Matlock Bath

Discover thrilling rides and amazing attractions at Gulliver’s Kingdom Matlock Bath.

Located on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Gulliver’s Kingdom is a unique theme park experience. Enjoy adrenanline-fueled adventures all with spectacular views thanks to our impressive hillside setting. Climb high above the Crows Nest Quest or take a ride on the log flume, 300ft above Derwent Valley! We don’t have lots of additional theme park prices at Gulliver’s, parking is completely free. Book your theme park tickets in advance to save even

Europe’s Largest Seven-Day Market Open March to November, Fantasy Island boasts Europe’s largest 7-day market that consists of over 320 stores, bringing you everything from plush toys to vaping equipment and clothing. There’s something for everyone on our 7-day market, we’re much more than just a theme park.

The market is completely free, so things to do in Skegness are plentiful at Fantasy Island. You can also buy your wristbands for the fair here.

more on your giant adventure. Short break packages are available too at Gulliver’s Matlock Bath, stay in a unique themed family suite. Choose from princess, pirate, wizard and promenade themes. Due to the nature of some of our rides and attractions, visitors are advised not to wear open-toed footwear.

20

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Newark & Sherwood DC

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

21

NHS to benefit from £13.4

billion debt write-off

Health Secretary announces over £13 billion of debt will be written off as part of a major financial reset for NHS providers.

• More than a hundred NHS hospitals to be rid of historic debt, freeing them up to invest in maintaining vital services and longerterm infrastructure improvements • Comes alongside new NHS funding model to make sure the NHS has the necessary funding and support to respond to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic From April 1, over £13 billion of NHS debt will be scrapped as part of a wider package of NHS reforms announced by the Health Secretary today.

The changes will provide much needed financial support during this unprecedented viral pandemic, as well as laying secure foundations for the longer-term commitments set out last year to support the NHS to become more financially sustainable.

This is part of a package of major reforms to the NHS financial system, designed in a collaboration between the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England, which will begin from the start of the new financial year.

This package is launched in combination with a simpler internal payment system to help NHS trusts in dealing with the coronavirus (COVID-19) response, which was agreed with NHS England last week.

This significant change will mean hospitals will get all the necessary funding to carry out their emergency response, despite many hospitals cancelling or limiting their usual services such as elective surgery or walk-in clinics due to the virus.

Health

Secretary

Matt

Hancock

said:

As we tackle this crisis, nobody in our health service should be distracted by their hospital’s past finances.

Today’s £13.4 billion debt write off will wipe the slate clean and allow NHS hospitals to plan for the future and invest in vital services.

I remain committed to providing the NHS with whatever it needs to tackle coronavirus, and the changes to the funding model will give the NHS immediate financial certainty to plan and deliver their emergency response.

While many NHS trusts manage strong finances, under the existing rules, some took out loans to plug financial gaps in their day-to-day (revenue) or capital (infrastructure) budgets.

107 trusts have an average of £100 million revenue debt each, with the 2 trusts with the highest debts reaching a combined total of over £1 billion.

NHS chief executive, Sir Simon Stevens, said: We’ve advocated for and support this pragmatic move which will put NHS hospitals, mental health and community services in a stronger position - not just to respond to the immediate challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic, but also in the years ahead to deliver widespread improvements set out in our NHS Long Term Plan.

Under the new rules set out in a letter to all NHS Trusts, should hospitals need extra cash this will be given with equity, rather than needing to borrow from the government and repay a loan.

The letters also include details on every local area’s capital budget for 2020/21, providing certainty to the NHS for the new financial year and enabling investment in vital longer-term infrastructure upgrades as soon as possible.

These budgets come on top of the capital facility the government launched in February to ensure the NHS has access to whatever extra capital investment it needs, without charges, to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak.

22

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Parkdean Luke

Terrys Carpets

Every Season

Brian Hill

Covid Operations !!!

Leek Town 3-2 Carlton Town With the Millers looking to overturn their earliar season defeat to the now current league leaders the team knew that this was to be a real tough ask. The home side were never allowed to settle as Carlton went at them from the very first whistle with sheer grit and determination in a bid to upset the home sides strategy. The millers harried and pushed the opposition to the limit and with probably a little more fortune could have won this even though throughout they were always chasing the scoreline. Two goals from Tyler Blake weren’t enough in a game where the longer it went on the stronger the Millers became.

Carlton Town 4-0 Market Drayton As always with teams fighting for their survival there can never be anything taken for granted. With the visitors sitting at the bottom of the pile in the division this one was no exception as the Millers would set about their business in the usual dynamic way that they have always tried to do during the course of the

season. Aaron Opoku would set the ball rolling with a penalty after fifteen minutes before Danny Fletcher later in the half would be sent off for what can only be described as a normal robust challenge.

The ‘take no prisoners’ type defender can feel unfortunate with the referee’s decision as he had made a good firm tackle to regain the ball. Anyhow with ten men and a slender lead the Millers continued to outplay and constantly trouble the opposition and be further rewarded when Opoku would net to increase the lead just before the break. Carlton continued to control the game in the second half with further goals from Blake and Opoku for his hat-trick to confirm a resounding victory against poor opposition on the day.

Carlton Town 4-0 Glossop North End Another fixture against a team that earliar in the season had proved difficult to overcome was up next for the Millers and this time the job at the office was done with great aplomb. Carlton hit the ground running from the off and within the

first fifteen minutes opened the scoring from the mercurial Blake who at the moment always seems to be in the right place at the right time. A defiant display for the rest of the half by the opposition would ensure that there was only one goal in it at half time before the destruction in the second half would send the visitors packing. Within the first ten minutes of the second period Blake would score twice more to complete his hat-trick and this would be followed up by Opoku twenty minutes from time to seal the result and firmly

establish the Millers in a play-off position.

Two days later the Northern Premier League would gather to discuss the very serious Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak and it’s potential threat to human life within our game and society. The decision taken was to suspend all fixtures immediately until the 3rd April as a means to further restrict the spread of this nasty and fatal germ.

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 6972670

So now with all sporting venues worldwide closed down and the government also doing their utmost to reduce society gathering together we all find ourselves in a potentially life-threatening situation for a lot of the population. In times like this that we have never experienced before we have to take stock of what is the most important. For sure it is human life, and in a day and age where most people take things for granted we now find ourselves potentially heading for a humanitarian disaster that nobody can see or control yet. Please ensure that you all keep safe out there,that you all try and look after yourselves and the needy where you can and hopefully as a society we will be able to combat this very difficult period in time.

Joining forces in the local community

Nottingham Forest have teamed up with Wilko retailers and Nottingham City Council in a project designed to help the City of Nottingham during these difficult times.

Nottingham Forest Community Trust staff have been helping to deliver over 1,000 essential items and Easter eggs to the most vulnerable people in the local community.

Article by Phil Jennings

23

Working alongside Wilko and Nottingham City Council, the club have been helping transport all of the items to designated de-

pots around the city. From next week, NFFC and partners will help deliver these items to households around the City of Nottingham.

Graham Moran, CEO of the Community Trust, said: “It is vital that Nottingham Forest are actively engaged in helping the local community during these difficult times. The instructions from the owner, Mr Evangelos Marinakis, and the club’s board is to help wherever we can, it doesn’t matter how big or small the gesture is, we have an obligation to the city and its people to lend our support.”

Friday 29th May 2020

Horsley Lodge

Councillor Rebecca Langton, Portfolio Holder for Communities at Nottingham City Council, said: “In the last couple of weeks people from all across the city have really pulled together to help each other. These Easter eggs and household supplies are a welcome donation from Nottingham Forest and Wilko. We are so grateful for their support, it will make a big difference to some vulnerable families and put a smile on the faces of Nottingham children during these difficult times.”

24

Sales E: sales@nottingham-now.co.uk | T: 0115 692670

Stranger Things Have Happened

Nottingham Forest Vs Manchester City 1960/61 League Cuo Tie

As the horrific Covid-19 virus envelops our planet, primarily, our aim is to preserve life, but when the beautiful game returns, we’ll incur a fixture pile up that’ll appear to have no beginning or end. Amazingly, it’s happened before in this country; I’m going to take you back to a year when the League Cup Final was played twice within the same season.

The Football League Cup, now referred to as the Carabao or EFL Cup, was founded in 1960 and has run concurrently with the FA Cup ever since. The first ever final was staged over two legs and was won by Aston Villa, who beat Rotherham united 3-2 on aggregate.

However, due to the fixture congestion it caused, embarrassingly, the final was played at the beginning of the following season.

The inception of a second major domestic cup competition was initially greeted with a mixed response by the English clubs. After all, most of the major leagues in Europe were happy with just the one. Nottingham Forest were one of the many clubs that welcomed the three handled trophy but others would simply not entertain the concept. Arsenal, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom, Wolves and Totten-

ham Hotspur all refused to take any part in it .

Forest started brightly in the new competition, they swept aside Halifax and Bristol City before losing away at Turf Moor to Burnley who went onto make the Semi Final. It was a tough task for the new Reds manager Andy Beattie, who had huge boots to fill following the departure of the great Billy Walker. Walker had of course masterminded the FA Cup win at Wembley just two seasons previous .

Having progressed to the final, remarkably, both Rotherham and Villa then had to endure a pre-season before finally finishing what they’d started a calendar year ago. The Millers had one hand on the famous old trophy having won the first leg by two goals to nil. However, in front of 31,302 supporters at Villa Park, the West Midlands side pulled off a stunning 3-0 victory to become the inaugural winners of the English league Cup. The prize money for their endeavour’s was just £750 Here’s where we begin to draw some real comparisons between then and now. Having eventually won the first of their five League Cup’s on Tuesday September 5th, 1961, Aston Villa were required to defend the same

trophy just eight days later. At a time when smoking and habitual drinking were not out of the ordinary for a professional footballer, I’d confidently assume that one or two of the Villa team wouldn’t have been in peak fitness for that first round tie at Bradford City.

The scoreline would suggest as much, the holders squirmed through in a 4-3 nail biter on Wednesday September 13th. The ensuing fixture pile up would prove to be too much for the Villa, they crashed out in the third round at the hands of Ipswich Town.

Not to distract possible supporters from the important war work they were undertaking. However, it was reported that as many as 1000 fans sneaked into Lincoln City’s Sincil Bank to watch Bradford end the proceedings courtesy of a 2-0 win.

Who knows how the current situation will pan out, if at all? However, the safety of the human race is paramount as sport pales into insignificance. Therefore, I hope you enjoyed this tenuous journey back in time and I wish you all the very best of health.

Going forward, the possibility of completing the 2019-20 season behind closed doors is still up for debate. It’s highly unlikely that any football will be played before August of this year but a conclusion without fans is plausible at some stage .

Again, you’d have to go way back in time to witness anything of the like. In 1915 Norwich City and Bradford City contested the first ever FA Cup game behind closed doors.

The tie had produced a draw and another stalemate in the replay. In not so different circumstances to which we are facing right now, the British government stepped in to order a closed doors replay at a neutral venue .

The reason for the political intervention?

Written by Steve Corry

Each edition of the Nottingham Now has an estimated readership of 42,500 from print and online. Published by Wilcop Media Ltd, 92L Rolleston Dr, Arnold, Nottingham, NG5 7JP.