Nottingham Now 131

Issue. 131 - December - 2023 0115 6972679 | www.deviltreemedia.co.uk | sales@deviltreemedia.co.uk

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VIOLENT DRUGS GANG MEMBERS WHO BOASTED OF WEALTH IN LAVISH MUSIC VIDEOS ARE LOCKED UP

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Nottingham City Council Grapples with Fiscal Challenges: Unpacking the Section 114 Report Local governance faces a daunting task in maintaining financial equilibrium, and Nottingham City Council has found itself at a critical juncture. On November 29, the council's chief finance officer invoked Section 114(3) of the Local Government Finance Act 1988, signaling the inability to meet the legal requirement of delivering a balanced budget for the current fiscal year.

The genesis of this action lies within a comprehensive report presented during the council’s Executive Board meeting on November 21.

This report meticulously outlined a stark reality—a significant gap persists in the council’s financial framework. The gaping hole, hovering at approximately £57 million by the midpoint of the fiscal year, stems from an array of challenges affecting councils nationwide.

Underlying Financial Challenges The challenges plaguing Nottingham City Council’s financial stability are multifaceted. Heightened demands for children’s and adults’ social care services represent a substantial

portion of the fiscal pressure.

The surge in homelessness presentations further exacerbates the strain on resources, while the relentless impact of inflation casts a long shadow over the council’s budget.

Despite attempts to alleviate the financial burden through one-off management and corrective actions, such as tapping into previously approved reserves, the net forecasted pressure for the year stands at around £23 million. The council’s past financial governance issues, culminating in the establishment of an Improvement and Assurance Board, combined with an overspend in the last financial year, have significantly report. Simultaneously, compromised its financial an immediate prohibition resilience. period is imposed, tightening spending controls.

Ross Brown's Decisive Essentially, all nonMove contractually committed or unapproved spending will In light of these challenges, cease.

Ross Brown, Nottingham City Council’s Corporate It’s imperative to stress that Director for Finance and while this action may evoke Resources and Section concerns, the council isn’t 151 Officer, made the on the brink of insolvency. pivotal decision to issue the It maintains sufficient Section 114(3) report to all financial resources to honor councillors. This initiates a its ongoing commitments, crucial process necessitating ensuring continuous payment a mandatory meeting within to staff, suppliers, and grant 21 days to scrutinize the recipients for the ongoing

year.

The Path Forward: Mitigation and Collaboration

Councillors: Crucial Decision-Making

The forthcoming meeting of councillors will serve as a watershed moment.

It will shape the strategies A dedicated section on the council’s website will furnish and decisions imperative to safeguarding the city's regular updates regarding financial stability in the days the report and the council’s ahead. This juncture demands strategic response to this astute leadership, collective financial challenge. Despite resilience, and informed these obstacles, both senior decision-making to surmount officers and members are steadfast in their commitment the fiscal challenges and guide Nottingham toward a to working alongside the Improvement and Assurance robust and secure financial future.

Board and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing, Transparency and and Communities. Their Engagement: Fostering collective mission remains resolute: steering the council Community Understanding toward a stable financial In the face of financial future. adversity, transparency and community engagement Navigating Complexity: are paramount. Nottingham The Council's City Council must foster Responsibilities open communication, ensuring that the community As Nottingham City comprehends the gravity Council navigates these of the situation, while also intricate financial waters, inspiring confidence in the it's crucial to understand the strategies devised to address gravity of the situation. The the challenges. council, as a local authority, shoulders a myriad of Strategies for Fiscal responsibilities. Aside from Resilience: Long-Term providing essential services Planning like waste management, education, and social care, it also plays a pivotal role in Beyond immediate measures, long-term fiscal resilience urban planning, economic development, and community demands meticulous planning. This includes welfare. exploring avenues for revenue generation, prudent The Meeting of

budgeting strategies, and potentially reevaluating the allocation of resources to ensure optimal service delivery without compromising financial stability.

Collaboration for Sustainable Solutions Moreover, collaboration with other local authorities and governmental bodies could yield sustainable solutions.

Learning from best practices, sharing resources, and exploring joint initiatives might offer a path toward mitigating the financial strains faced by Nottingham City Council.

A Call for Cohesive Action In conclusion, Nottingham City Council’s invocation of Section 114(3) underscores the urgency of addressing fiscal challenges while preserving essential services.

The council’s commitment to working collaboratively, fostering transparency, and making informed decisions will be instrumental in navigating these turbulent financial waters. As the council and its stakeholders converge to chart a course forward, collective action and prudent decision-making will be indispensable in securing Nottingham’s financial stability for generations to come.

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Work is now under way to transform Active Nottingham gyms Gyms at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centres are due to be transformed as part of a wider £1.5m investment for new equipment next month.

Active Nottingham, which is part of Nottingham City Council, is investing the money over five years across all of its six leisure centres – Harvey Hadden, Clifton, Ken Martin, Southglade, Victoria and Djanogly – with Clifton and Harvey Hadden members already seeing the benefits of the new gym concept.

The revamp at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centres will feature premium equipment from Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and ICG ®, which is suitable for all training interests and fitness levels.

The new kit will also feature immersive digital experiences with cardio consoles, a functional zone with a stretching area and environmentally-friendly Green Zones with self-powered equipment.

Victoria Leisure Centre is set to introduce a dedicated Functional Zone with multiple uses, including Ladies Only Functional Gym sessions, and Calm Functional Gym sessions which are aimed at gym-goers who prefer a quieter and less-crowded workout experience.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “The improvements to the gyms at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centre represent a continued investment in ensuring high-quality fitness facilities are available to our communities.

“We are refurbishing all Active Nottingham gyms across the city to ensure wherever people live, they have the opportunity and access to high-quality fitness equipment.

It’s great to see the next phase in progress following the renovated gyms earlier this year at Clifton Leisure Centre and Harvey

Pictured: 3D graphic impression of Southglade Leisure Centre

Hadden Sports Village.”

Sport and Leisure Development Manager, Sarah Retzlaff, said: “Active Nottingham aims to support the overall health and wellbeing of city residents, and the new Life Fitness equipment is set to play a significant role.

“The introduction of Calm Functional Gym and Ladies Only Functional Gym sessions, alongside an enhanced Group Fitness Programme at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centre, will enable us to reach out to a larger segment of the community, encouraging their engagement towards improving their physical and mental health.”

On Monday 4 December, Victoria Leisure Centre (11 December for Southglade Leisure Centre) will reopen its doors to the gyms for a VIP Open Day, where trainers from Life Fitness will be on hand to help customers with the new equipment. Members will also be invited to bring along a friend for free on the day.

To tie in with the reopening, residents will

Pictured: 3D graphic impression of Victoria Leisure Centre

be able to take advantage of special joining offers* which include: 10% discount on an annual Active Nottingham membership No joining fee on a rolling monthly membership 50% discount on the first month when signing up for a 12-month agreement *Terms apply. Choose one of the three offers mentioned, which are exclusively available at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centres from 4th to 12th December, coinciding with the reopening of the gyms. Offers will only be available between 4 and 12 December in centre at Victoria and Southglade Leisure Centres, Offers not available over the phone or via the website.

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Online shoppers urged to take steps to prevent parcel theft Police are reminding online shoppers to be careful about where their Christmas gifts are being delivered after recent reports of parcel thefts.

With Christmas fast approaching, many residents are ordering goods online and having them delivered to their homes.

However, if delivered to your doorstep and left unattended, they can be easily stolen by opportunist thieves.

Nottinghamshire Police has received a spate of reports in recent weeks involving the theft of parcels left outside people’s homes.

Incidents include: • £200 worth of furniture knobs stolen from the outside of a property in Alford Road, West Bridgford, on 3 November; • A jacket ordered from Zara stolen from a porch in Waterside Way, Sneinton, on 8 November; • An Apple iPhone stolen from a parcel left outside an address in Shelton, near Newark, on 11 November.

• £100 worth of perfume stolen from a doorstep in Lindfield Road, Broxtowe Estate, Nottingham, on 26 November; • A kitchen stool worth £62 stolen from a doorstep in Woodbridge Avenue, Clifton, on 26 November.

With this in mind, we are encouraging everyone to take appropriate action when ordering items online, ensuring they are

protected to help prevent parcel theft.

Chief Inspector Chris Pearson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “With more people shopping online, thieves are seeing this an opportunity to target parcels.

“This type of crime is preventable, and we’re asking everyone to do all that they can to stop this crime happening.

“Ask for your deliveries to be diverted to trusted neighbours or friends if you’re are not going to be home. If this isn’t possible, attempt to rearrange to a time when you know you will be in or choose to collect it instead.

“We’re asking everyone to work together over the festive period and beyond, to eliminate this type of crime in our communities.”

Here are some things you could do to reduce the risk of parcel theft: - Track your parcel to ensure you or someone else is at home for the delivery - Install a video doorbell; this can be connected to your mobile so you are notified immediately of any delivery, and is easier to install than a full CCTV system - Install a security light and/or CCTV - Arrange for your parcel to be delivered to a trusted neighbour, or other family members who will be at home.

- Use an off-site locker service for frequent deliveries, or for expensive items; these

parcel boxes are more likely to be in busy, and sender. safer locations - such as supermarkets - rather If you think a parcel has been stolen or than secluded areas which could be targeted notice anyone acting suspicious, you can by thieves. make a report online or by calling 101.

If you have ordered a delivery which has notAlternatively, you can call Crimestoppers arrived, first contact the delivery company anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Investigation launched into fatal flat fire A joint investigation is underway to establish the cause of a flat fire.

Emergency services were called to Watcombe Circus, Carrington, at around 7.25pm, last night (1 December) following reports of a fire.

Sadly a man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A woman was also taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening.

Detective Sergeant Alan Prentice, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the man at this incredibly sad time and we will continue to support them during this investigation.

“We are continuing to work alongside our fire colleagues to establish exactly what has caused the fire.”

Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service Group

Manager, Tom Archer, said: "Upon arrival at this incident, our firefighters worked swiftly to rescue two casualties from the second floor flat.

"Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of all emergency services on scene, one of these casualties was pronounced dead.

"This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the man's family and friends at

this sad time.

"We will continue to work closely with our police colleagues now to fully understand the cause and circumstances surrounding this fire."

Anyone with any information is asked to call 101, quoting incident number 598 of 1 December 2023, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Police find cocaine in ice cream tub during raid Police found an ice cream tub full of cocaine after responding to concerns about drug dealing at a multi-occupancy property.

Officers attended the address in London Road, Newark, at around 9.50am on Wednesday (29 November).

They carried out a search of a room within the property and inside the kitchen found the tub underneath a boarded up area.

Inside the container were golf ball-sized quantities of the Class A drug and a large amount of cash.

Officers from the Newark Operation Reacher also seized a small amount of cannabis and a set of scales on the ground outside of the property.

A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs and has been bailed while investigations continue.

Detectives charge burglary suspect after break-in Detectives investigating a burglary on a property under renovation have placed a suspect before the courts.

Officers were called to Lincoln Street, Nottingham, at around 9.30am on 8 November 2023 after the owner of the property reported a break-in overnight.

The victim discovered a window had been smashed and carpet underlay and fittings had been taken.

Martin Taylor, aged 38, of Heaton Close, Nottingham, has been charged with burglary. He appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (30 November) and was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on 28 December 2023.

Detective Constable Colin Kirkup, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Construction sites and buildings under renovation like this can be tempting targets for thieves.

“We would urge building companies and people carrying out work on their own homes or businesses to make sure sites are as secure as possible.

“I’m pleased we have placed a suspect before the courts.”

Police Constable Richard Hodgman, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We take reports of drug dealing in the community with the utmost seriousness and quickly attended the scene.

“We then carried out a meticulous search of the property and we have been able to find and seize a large amount of Class A drugs which will now be destroyed.

“I would encourage people to continue to

report drug activity in their neighbourhood to officers. We will always listen and take appropriate action.

“I am pleased we have arrested this suspect but our investigation remains ongoing into this incident. Anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 175 of 29 November 2023, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

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Report set to highlight long-term economic benefits of planned world-class, low-carbon energy site in Notts A new, in-depth report is set to investigate the full economic benefits of the UK’s prototype fusion energy powerplant due to be built at West Burton near Retford.

The ambitious project - Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production, known as STEP - is being led by the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).

Fusion offers an inherently safe and virtually limitless source of clean electricity by copying the processes that power the sun.

Ongoing partner work on this project includes a strategic collaboration group chaired by Sir John Peace, chairman of Midland Engine, which includes UKAEA, Nottinghamshire County Council, Bassetlaw District Council, Midlands Connect, The Energy Research Accelerator and the University of Nottingham.

The group recently recommended that an economic impact assessment report should be the first of three new reports. The other two will focus on the strategic vision and a transport infrastructure study.

Working closely with UKAEA, Midlands Engine, and a number of local authorities, Nottinghamshire County Council will now lead the process of commissioning the report on behalf of all partners with the aim of getting the best research for maximum value for money.

Keith Girling, the County Council’s

Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Asset Management, said: “Fusion energy has the potential to deliver a near limitless supply of low-carbon energy across the globe for generations to come. Our county and region will be at the heart of this so will reap some of the incredible benefits.

“Initial research tells us that this project will create massive growth and investment and thousands of skills jobs and lucrative opportunities for the local supply chain to help construct the plant.

“Given this is world-class project, we need this indepth report to reveal the full extent of these benefits in the long-term and provide partners a benchmark to monitor these benefits.

“It will give us crucial insight to help us make the most of this once-in- lifeline project in terms of our future investment plans and environment and economic policies.”

Paul Methven, CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd, responsible for the delivery of STEP as part of UKAEA Group,

said: “STEP is a vital and exciting opportunity to lead and deliver a new solution for the climate, which will help keep Britain at the forefront of the commercial delivery of fusion.

“The development of our vision for the West Burton site to 2050 and the critical role that STEP has to play in levelling up is fundamental to the success of the programme.

“We are committed to supporting regional leaders to ensure the collective opportunities are realised to deliver that social and economic impact.”

UKAEA will fund half of the report, with the other half made up of contributions from the Nottinghamshire County Council, Bassetlaw District Council, Lincolnshire County Council and West Lindsey District Council.

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Class A drugs gang jailed after £350k of cocaine found in car boot Nottinghamshire and West Yorkshire criminals who masterminded a Class A drugs ring worth hundreds of thousands of pounds have been jailed.

Liam Gunn, aged 37, and Callum Lane, 23, from the Ashfield area of Nottinghamshire, together with Lee Harris, 44, from Dewsbury, were sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday (30 November).

All three were sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A Drugs offences.

Detectives from both forces welcomed the sentences and said Harris in particular was seen as a significant figure in organised crime circles who was viewed as ‘untouchable.’

Harris, of Castle Crescent, Dewsbury, was sentenced to nine years in jail.

Liam Gunn, of Acorn View, Kirkby-inAshfield was sentenced to nine years Callum Lane, of Willow Gardens, Suttonin-Ashfield was sentenced to four years.

Police began to investigate the group’s activities on November 23rd 2022 after a drugs exchange was spotted in Bradford involving a black VW Golf driven by Lane.

The car was monitored and made off at speed from Nottinghamshire Police officers in the Sutton-in-Ashfield area later that evening.

The vehicle finally came to stop and was abandoned in Huthwaite, with Lane located and arrested nearby.

Officers also recovered five kilos of cocaine with a street value of about £350,000 from the vehicle.

An investigation by West Yorkshire Police’s Precision Serious and Organised Crime Team identified Lane was acting on behalf of organised crime group heads Lee Harris and Liam Gunn - resulting in a wider investigation beginning into the group’s activity.

In May 2023 those investigations

culminated in a series of coordinated warrants which were executed across West Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire utilising operational support units from both forces.

All three men were arrested with further Class A drugs, cash and encrypted telecommunication devices were located.

Detective Inspector James Oakton, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Criminal activity does not stop at county borders, which is why law enforcement always requires close cooperation between different forces.

“In this case, teamwork between Nottinghamshire and West Yorkshire has allowed us to bring this drugs gang to justice.

“Criminals like Harris, Gunn and Lane bring misery to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities in order to line their own pockets.

“They believed they were untouchable but did not count on the determination and skill of officers who worked on the case across two forces.

“I would like to commend the Nottinghamshire officers on patrol that day whose efforts in pursuing this vehicle allowed us to recover a very large quantity of Class A drugs and gather vital information to help detectives crack the case.”

Detective Sergeant James Gross, of West Yorkshire Police, said: “We welcome the sentencing of these men for their roles in what was a significant and highly organised drugs conspiracy operating between West Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire.

“Harris in particular held a notable position within organised crime groups and was viewed as something of an untouchable figure. He utilised a series of sophisticated

methods to frustrate law enforcement and to maintain his operation security.

conspirators to justice.”

He added: “These convictions could not have been brought without the closest “A painstaking investigation utilising co-operation between police officers in specialist departments working West Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire and collaboratively across county borders demonstrates the capabilities both forces discovered evidence to prove his role possess to combat this kind of organised alongside Gunn and bring both men plus their criminality.”

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NOTTINGHAM FROM THE AIR

This month’s aerial photo shows the Albert Hall in the city centre which was opened in 1910. It replaced the original Albert Hall that burnt down in 1906. Photo was taken by Robin Macey who is a member of Nottingham & Derby Hot Air Balloon Club. The club is currently looking to expand. Members take turns being on the chase crew as well as flying in the basket. For details about getting involved phone 0115-8541028 or visit www.facebook.com/ndhabc.

Photo by Robin Macey

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Over £5million investment to support local bus services

Residents across the county are to benefit from an improved, more integrated bus network and new Nottsbus on Demand services.

Following the outcome of the county council’s bus network review, over £5million will be invested to support, improve and deliver new bus services across the county with a clear focus on reconnecting communities and protecting services to boost access to education, health, employment, shopping, and leisure activities.

Four new Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services covering areas of Rushcliffe, Gedling, Broxtowe, Ashfield and Newark will be developed over the next two years, building on the success of the current Nottsbus on Demand services.

These will give residents more flexibility to travel anywhere between bus stops and designated points within operating zones at a time that is convenient to them. The new DRT services are likely to replace existing scheduled services to maximise efficiencies and improve travel opportunities. These services include: • 856/857 Lowdham/Newark - Bottesford • 91 Newark - Bingham • 863 Keyworth - Ruddington

• 852 Colston Bassett – Radcliffe on Trent • 853 Hickling – West Bridgford • 528/532/535 - Eastwood area • 773/774/775 - Netherfield area • 300 Lowdham - Newark • 747 Lowdham – Calverton – Oxton Detailed proposals for these DRT services will be developed as they are rolled out over the next two years.

Over 80 local bus services across the county will continue to be invested in at a cost of £4 million. These are services that would otherwise have been reduced or withdrawn by commercial operators because they are deemed no longer profitable.

This is on top of the £1.4 million from grant funding that was used in February 2023 to support the following 12 bus services in response to low passenger numbers following the pandemic: • Stagecoach 6 & 7 - Worksop, Gateford, Shireoaks, Rhodesia, Worksop • Marshalls 90 - Newark, Radcliffe, Nottingham • Trentbarton 90 - Sutton, Kirkby, Selston, Ripley • Stagecoach 14/15 - Mansfield, Ollerton, Walesby • Nottingham City Transport 46,47

- Woodborough, Lambley, Mapperley, Nottingham • Stagecoach 1 (Mansfield Miller) Mansfield Woodhouse, Mansfield • Trentbarton Rushcliffe Villager Bingham, Newton, East Bridgford, Shelford, Gunthorpe, Radcliffe • Marshalls 37 - Retford, East Markham, Tuxford, Sutton on Trent, Muskham, Newark.

• Stagecoach 141- Bestwood, Hucknall, Mansfield and Ashfield The county council will also ensure that passengers can continue to travel between Nottingham and Southwell by supporting the existing Nottingham City Transport 26 service or providing a comparable alternative.

There will also be further investment in new evening bus services for Hucknall town, Newark town (DRT) and the Sherwood Arrow, along with the introduction of new routes between Mansfield Town Centre and the industrial estates where vital transport links are needed. These will be funded from the Bus Service improvement Plan government grants.

Councillor Neil Clarke, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council, said:

“Nottinghamshire residents deserve a bus network that serves all our communities.

“A lot of people don’t realise that we have no legal obligation to provide local bus services or any other form of public transport, however, we understand the vital lifeline that these buses provide to many of our residents going about their daily lives and that is why we want to fulfil our pledge that all Nottinghamshire communities should have access to the wider bus network.

“We need to ensure that people who rely on local buses for essential services can continue to access them and by filling gaps in the bus network, we hope to make local transport even more attractive, convenient and accessible to encourage more people to choose the bus instead of their car.

"The DRT services launched in the villages around Retford, Ollerton, Newark, Mansfield and west Rushcliffe have been a fantastic success and we’ve received amazing comments from customers who use the service, so we’re looking forward to rolling them out to other areas of Nottinghamshire to improve accessibility to work, training, health and leisure opportunities.”

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Highlighting Severe Multiple Disadvantage Director of Public Health Annual Report Nottinghamshire County Council has published the 2023 Director of Public Health Annual Report, which this year has been co-produced with individuals across Nottinghamshire who have lived experiences of severe multiple disadvantage.

This year's report, presented in a compelling video format, shares personal stories of hardship and triumph, aiming to raise awareness and drive actionable change.

Jonathan Gribbin, Director of Public Health for Nottinghamshire County Council, said, "The report and its recommendations

are built around the true stories of real people, their struggles, their remarkable journeys towards recovery, and their insights about what we can do to make a positive difference to others facing similar challenges."

The video narratives set out the experience of people who have encountered combinations of homelessness, mental ill-health, domestic abuse/ sexual violence, harmful use of alcohol and drugs, and contact with the criminal justice system. Their stories highlight the adversities people have faced, the

courage they have exercised and the pride they now take in their achievements.

Jonathan explains, "The recommendations have been produced with people who have navigated issues of severe multiple disadvantage.

Their focus is on improving housing solutions, ensuring pathways of care are trauma-informed, increasing sharing of information between professionals, and co-producing with people with lived experience. What we hear from people with experience of severe multiple disadvantage is a call to action.”

The Report takes the format of six videos, providing an immersive and impactful experience for viewers, with further information, including

a glossary of terms and links to support services, provided in a written document.

For more information on the Director of Public Health

Annual Report, to watch the videos and to read the document, please visit https:// www.nottinghamshire.gov. uk/dph-annual-report

Electric blanket testing events available to Nottinghamshire residents Nottinghamshire residents are being offered the chance to replace their old electric blankets free of charge in December.

The county council’s Trading Standards Team will be carrying out an electric blanket exchange at three separate events on 6, 7 and 8 December as part of a campaign to improve safety.

In 2022/23, there have been three fires in Nottinghamshire with causes attributed to electric blankets which sadly resulted in two fatalities.

Electric blankets brought to the three events will be tested and replaced with a new one should they fail the safety testing.

Any blankets which fail safety testing will not be handed back to residents.

The county council’s Trading Standards team advises that blankets displaying scorch marks, fraying fabric, exposed elements, damp patches loose connections, tie tapes that are damaged or missing and creasing and folding are of particular concern and should be brought along for testing.

Appointments are available at: Worksop Library – 6 December.

Bingham Library – 7 December.

Mansfield Fire Station – 8 December.

Residents wishing to book an appointment can do so by calling 0115 804 4555.

Councillor John Cottee, Cabinet Member for Communities at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “With winter now upon us, we know that many people

across Nottinghamshire will be turning to appliances such as electric blankets to give more heat to their homes.

“These sessions are a great opportunity for anyone with an old electric blanket to come along and get it tested to make sure

that it is not putting them and their loved ones at risk.

“We’re also keen that anyone with an elderly or vulnerable relative or neighbour helps us to spread the word about these events.

“It is not worth the risk of using an older blanket which may be unsafe so I would urge anyone who owns an electric blanket to consider booking to come along to one of our events.”

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Violent drugs gang members who boasted of wealth in lavish music videos are locked up Four members of a violent, gun-toting gang of drug dealers who flaunted their wealth in an increasingly lavish series of music videos have been locked up for a combined total of more than 50 years.

They were convicted after a re-trial at Nottingham Crown Court, which began on 2 October, and were sentenced on Tuesday (28 November 2023).

The gang, which sold vast quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin on the streets of Nottingham, Mansfield, Kirkby and Sutton-in-Ashfield, came to the attention of police after a series of shooting incidents in late 2018 and early 2019.

They were finally brought down by a combination of covert police work and their own arrogance.

In one incident, on 9 May 2019, a member of a rival criminal gang was shot in the neck as gang leader and aspiring rap star Akeem Chand fired multiple shots at his car in a residential street.

Between July 2018 and June 2019, the gang made huge sums of money which they flaunted on expensive jewellery, designer clothes, holidays, and the production of music videos, in which they bragged about their drug-funded wealth.

At one point, in March 2019, several members of the gang – who had almost no legitimate income between them – flew to Mexico’s Caribbean coast where they stayed in a lavishly appointed private villa and even hired a luxury motor yacht.

Both were used as props in a professionally-produced music video recorded on the trip in which the gang boasted about dealing drugs, flaunted their jewellery, and wondered aloud how they could count all the money they were making.

After falling under police suspicion the gang became the subject of an extensive covert police operation, which caught the gang openly discussing the sale of drugs and the shooting of rivals.

In August 2021, after a trial at Nottingham Crown Court, six men were convicted by a jury of two charges - conspiracy to possess firearms with

intent to endanger life and conspiracy to possess ammunition without a certificate. Each of them had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply Class A and B drugs.

They were jailed for a combined total of more than 120 years when they were sentenced in October 2021.

On Tuesday (28 November 2023) 28-year-old Jayden Gorewoda, formerly of Tenbury Crescent, Aspley, was jailed for 22 years after he was convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of ammunition, and conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs.

Jason Mility, aged 33, formerly of Longdale Road, Sherwood, was convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of ammunition, and conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs. Due to a previous conviction for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, he received a life sentence with a minimum term of 14 years.

Damion Martin, aged 41, formerly of Wyton Close, Sherwood, was also convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of ammunition, and conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs. He was locked up for 14 years.

Zak Charles, who was a child at the time of the offences but is now aged 21, was convicted of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Charles, formerly of Bulwell, had previously been convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to possess ammunition without a certificate, and conspiracy to supply Class B drugs, for which he was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years.

For conspiring to supply Class A drugs he was given 18 months to be served consecutively – increasing his total sentence to 10 years.

Those previously convicted and sentenced in 2021 were: • Akeem Chand, aged 29, formerly of Melbourne Road, Aspley - jailed for life with a minimum term of 20 years before he becomes eligible for parole.

• Devante Neufville, aged 26, formerly of no fixed address – jailed for 20 years.

• Orlando Escoffery, aged 28, formerly of Fenton Road, Basford - jailed for 23 years.

• Kiefer Smith, aged 30, formerly of Dallman Close, Hucknall – jailed for 17 years.

• Alexsandro Woolery, aged 29, formerly of Portland Road, Carlton – jailed for 22 years.

• Quarnell Simpson, aged 26, formerly of Nuthall Road, Aspley – jailed for 20 years.

• Ravan Mather-Simpson, aged 27, formerly of Mansfield Road, Sherwood – jailed for 10 years and four months after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs.

• Sarah Aplin, aged 29, formerly of Wyton Close, Bestwood - had previously admitted to a charge of allowing a premises to be used for the supply of controlled drugs. She was jailed for two years and three months.

The Gang Akeem Chand was the undisputed leader of a gang that controlled a sophisticated and highly profitable network of drug lines – mobile phone numbers used to advertise and sell drugs to customers.

The drugs were then delivered around the county by a network of couriers and enforcers – each of whom collected the bare minimum of merchandise from a network of ‘stash’ or safehouses in case they were ever stopped by the police.

Those same safehouses were also used to store an array of modern firearms, which would later be used in a mutually damaging tit-fortat turf war with a rival gang.

One of them, a property in Bestwood, was even used as a back-drop to a music video the group posted online.

The shootings Police were alerted to the activities of the gang by a series of shootings – the first of which took place in Minver Crescent, Aspley, on 13 December 2018, when a shot was fired at a car suspected to contain rival gang members. An offence for which Chand was ultimately arrested.

Things really began to unravel for the gang on 9 May 2019 when Chand and Simpson, driving in the Basford area of Nottingham,

had a chance encounter at a set of traffic lights with members of a rival gang.

Insults are believed to have been exchanged – causing Chand and Simpson to go looking for their rivals.

Around 15 minutes later they found them and set up a hastily arranged ambush, with Chand exiting the vehicle as Simpson drove head-on towards the other car and blocked its path. Chand then approached on foot and fired a .44 calibre revolver at close quarters into the car.

The bullet ricocheted around the vehicle and struck the victim in the neck.

Showing a brazen disregard for the safety of members of the public, Chand then discharged several more shots as his victim sped from the scene in panic. Unbeknown to him the entire attack had been captured on the victim’s dashcam – giving police a detailed account of what had happened.

Only a few days later, on the night of 12 May, shots were fired at the empty vehicle of a gang member in an apparent revenge attack in Meregill Close – another residential street.

Detectives at Nottinghamshire Police were convinced that the shootings were linked and that Chand and his associates were involved. As a result, a covert investigation was commenced into Chand and his associates.

This captured the group conducting multiple drug deals and discussing the best wording for a text message advertisement they were planning to send out to tout their illegal wares.

Crucially the gang were heard plotting a revenge shooting that would be carried out on the evening of 22 May in Hazel Hill Crescent, Bestwood – again targeted at a rival gang who had knocked one of Chand’s associates off his motorbike.

Two men on a motorbike eventually fired four shots at the building – shattering two windows and leaving bullets logged in a living room wall.

The cycle of tit-for-tat shootings was concluded on 27 May in Melbourne Road, Aspley, when a shotgun was fired through the front window of Chand’s then home address.

Downfall

Now armed with very compelling evidence, the detectives moved in and arrested the gang. Subsequent property searches revealed significant quantities of drugs, cash, and guns, one of which was forensically linked to the Hazel Hill Crescent shooting.

Detectives were not able to prove conclusively who pulled the trigger in every offence and successfully argued instead that the men had all conspired together to store and use the weapons in a way that posed a clear and obvious risk to life.

Detective Superintendent Rich Bull, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The sentences passed on Tuesday bring a conclusion to what was a very complex police investigation. I would like to pay tribute to everybody who worked tirelessly on this case and helped to bring these extremely dangerous men to justice.

“This was a very successful gang that were making huge sums of money from a widespread and sophisticated drug dealing network. Ultimately, however, they were undone by their own arrogance, recklessness, and meticulous police work.

“Here we had a group of young men with almost no discernible legal income between them living the lives of music stars or footballers – spending quite incredible sums on jewellery, holidays, designer clothes, and the

other trappings of wealth.

“All the more incredible was the fact they made so little effort to spend their money so discreetly – choosing instead to brag on social media posts about just how much of it they were spending. It was, however, their ready use of violence that led to their undoing.

“These men thought nothing of discharging firearms in residential streets, with total disregard for the safety of local residents.

Shooting incidents are both incredibly rare and extremely serious, so when they do happen we dedicate whatever resources we deem necessary to catch the people responsible and take their weapons off the streets.

“When guns are discharged in the street there is always a reason. In this case that reason led us very quickly to Chand and his associates, who by that time were effectively boasting openly of their drug dealing and violence online. We knew exactly what they were up to but were still faced with the challenge of getting enough evidence to bring them to justice.

“Our subsequent covert investigation unearthed a treasure trove of damning evidence that has ultimately led to the men’s convictions and lengthy sentences.

I hope they send a very clear warning to other criminals about the potential consequences of acquiring and using illegal firearms."

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Page 15.

Understanding Legal Procedures: A Guide for the General Public The world of law can often seem complex and daunting to the average person. From contracts to court proceedings, legal matters can be overwhelming and confusing.

However, having a basic understanding of legal procedures can empower individuals in their interactions with the legal system.

Whether you're entering into a contract, dealing with a neighborly dispute, or simply seeking legal advice, knowing the fundamentals can be invaluable.

boundaries or a conflict with a service provider. There are various methods of resolving disputes, ranging from negotiation and mediation to litigation. Mediation, for instance, involves a neutral third party facilitating discussions between conflicting parties to reach a mutually acceptable solution. Litigation, on the other hand, involves taking the matter to court where a judge will make a decision based on the evidence presented.

Contracts and Agreements Contracts are an integral part of our daily lives, governing various transactions from buying a house to signing up for a mobile phone plan. Understanding the essential components of a contract is crucial. These agreements typically involve an offer, acceptance, consideration, and the intention to create legal relations. While not all contracts need to be in writing to be legally binding, having written documentation can provide clarity and evidence in case of disputes.

Legal Assistance Seeking legal advice and assistance is often the wisest course of action when dealing with complex legal matters. Solicitors and lawyers specialize in different areas of law, such as family law, property law, criminal law, and more. They can provide guidance, explain legal procedures, and represent individuals in legal proceedings.

Dispute Resolution Disputes are inevitable, whether it's a disagreement with a neighbor over property

Court Proceedings Courtrooms can be intimidating places, but understanding the basic structure of court proceedings can ease some anxiety. Civil courts handle disputes between individuals or organizations, while criminal courts deal with offenses against the state. Each court has

gaining a basic understanding of legal procedures can be immensely beneficial.

Whether it's knowing the essentials of contracts, understanding dispute resolution methods, seeking legal assistance, or familiarizing oneself with court proceedings, this knowledge empowers individuals to Legal Resources make informed decisions and effectively Numerous resources are available to help engage with the legal system. individuals navigate the legal landscape.

Remember, when facing legal matters, Public legal services, libraries, and online seeking professional guidance can make a platforms offer information on various legal matters. Additionally, there are initiatives and significant difference. By being informed and proactive, individuals can navigate legal organizations that provide free or affordable procedures with confidence and better protect legal advice to those in need. their rights and interests.

While the legal world may seem intricate, its own procedures and rules that govern how cases are presented and decided upon. Being prepared and understanding court etiquette can significantly impact the outcome of a case.

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Matlock Bath in the Peak District

Matlock Bath was developed as one of England’s first true tourist destinations.

It occupies a beautiful position in a limestone gorge on the River Derwent, and boasts attractive riverside gardens and steep wooded hillsides.

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

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

Matlock Bath Illuminations

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

Gulliver’s Kingdom

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

Peak District Lead Mining Museum

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

Crich Tramway Village

Located just a short drive outside Matlock Bath, the fabulous Crich Tramway Village is a fabulous place to spend a day, with plenty to keep the whole family happy. It is home to the National Tramway Museum, with more than 60 vintage trams for visitors to admire in airy exhibition halls, and it also features a beautifully recreated period village with a pub, café and olde-worlde shops.

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

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Christmas at Wollaton is back with an all new light trail bringing colour, lights and interactive play to Nottingham

With brand new installations as well as the return of the famous Wollaton Deer, the laser garden and a new twist on the tunnel of light, this year’s light trail is bigger and better than ever before.

Step inside the giant Christmas bauble and your journey into a magical winter wonderland begins. Discover surprises around every corner, including the new interactive Light Launchers, the captivating Field of Flames, a shower of light created by the stunning new installation - Reflections,

and the sensational Son et Lumière.

Enjoy some festive food, warming cocktails, hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows as you embark on an unforgettable journey and immerse yourself in a world of sparkle and cheer.

Picture perfect moments await you as you make memories with family, friends and loved ones at this seasonal classic with a contemporary twist.

Book now to secure the date and time of your choice.

Prices from: Adult - £21.25 Child (3-16) - £14.25 Family - £61 Groups (15+) £20 Careers/infants (0-2) free All tickets are subject to booking and transaction fee For tickets and more information visit www.christmaswollaton.org/the-experience

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Upcoming Shows at the Lace Market Theatre 8 – 16 December 2023

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We are an independent theatre in Nottingham city centre, staging a varied programme of high-quality amateur productions 15 – 20 January 2024

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

30 January – 3 February 2024

ONCE UPON A BRIDGE

By Oscar Wilde

BY SONYA KELLY

Hobson, a bombastic, skinflint struggles A witty and satirical play set inwidower, the late Victorian with finding husbands hisof three era, revolving around thefor lives twodaughters, young men, a boot shop andMoncrieff, a drink problem.

Jackrunning Worthing and Algernon who create fictional egos to escape constraints of It takes his alter strong-minded eldestthe daughter, Maggie, their obligations. methods Playfully to challenging thea to usesocial very unorthodox bring about values of the upper and offering a humorous happy ending for allclass concerned, including herself, commentary onbusiness the absurdities of the time, Jackand saving the by presenting him with and Algernon the consequences yesreveal - a Hobson’s choice. of living in A a world where appearances triumph over comedic comment on the often overthrow of the genuine character. patriarchal system.

A play that transports you to County Leitrim in the north of Ireland, into a remote, cosy local pub on a blustery, stormy night. Some local fellas are keen to impress a new arrival, Valerie, and their light hearted banter soon leads on to a sharing of funny and spellbinding A tale for a modern age: earlystories. one morning on Putney Bridge, three strangers’ for Each story reveals something lives aboutcollided its teller’s one fleeting second. vulnerabilities and sparks telling reactions in their listeners.

ButbyValerie has a tale her own which has Inspired real events, OnceofUpon a Bridge anweaves unexpected twist. A play with comic, naturalistic a tale about human triumph and frailty, dialogue, with of thedestiny revelation a moving about the power and of chance and and why shattering event. sometimes we choose to hate and other times, we to dance.

Contains strongchoose language.

Not suitable for young children.

The play tells the story of a typical night in a wine bar (aptly named Shakers) as four workers, Carol, Nicky, Adele and Mel struggle through their long shift, serving demanding customers who come and go on their night out.

Through comedy it deals with modern culture and tackles issues of sexism, expectations, prejudice, motherhood and job satisfaction.

Keep up to date through our website and social media

www.lacemarkettheatre.co.uk LMTheatre LaceMarketTheatre lacemarkettheatre

Halifax Place, Nottingham NG1 1QN

The MBE for volunteer groups

Tickets £11 - £14 from our website or call our box office 0115 950 7201

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Latest funding award continues ‘vital’ free holiday clubs for children Nottingham City Council is expecting to be awarded up to £2m to continue supporting financially-vulnerable families until March 2025.

The authority is awaiting full

confirmation of its latest award from the Department for Education (DfE) to deliver the Holiday Activity Fund (HAF) programme, but it is anticipated to be at least the £1.8m secured for 2023/24.

The HAF programme was first awarded to the City Council in 2021 and specifically aims to support children at risk of holiday hunger. The DfE devolves this funding to local authorities

as they are best placed to understand their residents’ needs and distribute funds to organisations that support communities.

In Nottingham, it pays for funded holiday clubs for school children who receive free school meals and has delivered a mixture of sport and enrichment activities to ensure a broad range of activity.

Clubs run across the summer, halfterm, Christmas and Easter holidays.

More than 15,000 children have attended in recent years.

The programme works with local community groups and schools to support and strengthen existing community delivery. For 2023/24, Nottingham Forest Community Trust and Trent Bridge Community Trust were appointed as the joint lead organisations.

Councillor Cheryl Barnard, Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People and Education at Nottingham City Council, said: “This funding has become vital for many struggling families in our city and the latest award is very welcome during the ongoing national cost-of-living crisis.

“We are a city with high levels of deprivation and we know that residents have been hit especially hard with rising inflation and the cost of household basics spiralling in recent years.

“We want to help and this latest grant, which we’ve yet to learn the full value of, will make sure that children are not going hungry. Holidays should be a time for them to relax and recharge their batteries after a busy school term, so the fact that so many fun and free activity clubs are provided is a real boost.”

Nottingham City Council has previously endorsed Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford’s campaign to tackle holiday hunger.

At a meeting of the Full Council in November 2020, councillors highlighted the levels of child poverty in Nottingham and gave a commitment to support free school meals to children throughout the holidays in 2021 and 2022. This was extended through 2023

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Unwrapping Nottingham's Festive Delights What's On from December to New Year As the winter chill settles in, Nottingham transforms into a city adorned with twinkling lights and a contagious festive spirit. From the first frost of December to the dawn of the New Year, this vibrant cityscape becomes a hub of merry celebrations and cultural happenings. Embrace the magic and wonder of the season with an array of events and experiences that promise to enchant residents and visitors alike.

December Delights Christmas Markets at Old Market Square Amidst the heart of the city, Old Market Square blossoms into a winter wonderland.

Admire the charming wooden chalets offering handmade crafts, delectable treats, and mulled wine. The air is filled with the scents of cinnamon and roasting chestnuts, inviting all to indulge in the joyous ambiance.

Winter Wonderland at Nottingham Castle The historic Nottingham Castle turns into a whimsical Winter Wonderland, adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations. Step into this enchanting world and discover ice skating, seasonal workshops, and captivating performances that promise to mesmerize visitors of all ages.

Pantomimes and Performances Entertainment takes center stage during the holiday season with an array of pantomimes and live performances across the city's theaters and venues. From timeless classics to modern adaptations, there's something for everyone to enjoy, making it the perfect

outing for families and friends.

New Year Celebrations As the year draws to a close, Nottingham bids farewell to the old and welcomes the new with a burst of excitement and celebration.

New Year's Eve Fireworks Spectacular Join the crowds gathered along the River Trent to witness a dazzling display of fireworks painting the sky in vibrant hues.

The iconic setting provides the perfect backdrop to bid adieu to the passing year and usher in the New Year with joy and cheer.

Live Music and Parties Bars, clubs, and live music venues across Nottingham come alive with electrifying energy as they host New Year's Eve parties and concerts. From intimate gatherings to extravagant soirées, there's a party to suit every taste and preference.

Cultural Experiences Beyond the festive glitz, Nottingham offers a diverse range of cultural experiences throughout this period. Galleries and museums host captivating exhibitions, allowing patrons to delve into art, history, and innovation.

Planning Your Visit With so much on offer, planning ahead is key to ensuring you don't miss out on the festive fun. Many events require pre-booking due to high demand, so securing your tickets in advance is advisable.

Whether you're a local looking for

familiar traditions or a visitor seeking new experiences, Nottingham's festive calendar promises to delight and captivate all who step into its wintry embrace. Embrace the warmth of community, the magic of the season, and create cherished memories that will linger long after the last snowflake has fallen.

This season, Nottingham invites you to unwrap the gift of joy, wonder, and togetherness in a tapestry of festive celebrations that define the true spirit of the holidays.

So, gather your loved ones and immerse yourself in Nottingham's festive tapestry— it's time to make this winter season truly unforgettable!

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Enchanting Derbyshire: A Festive Escape in the Heart of England As the crisp winter air sweeps through the charming landscapes of Derbyshire, a visit to this picturesque county during the runup to Christmas promises an enchanting experience like no other. Nestled in the heart of England, Derbyshire's historic towns, stunning landscapes, and festive events create a magical tapestry that captures the true spirit of the holiday season. So, don your coziest scarf and embark on a festive journey through the heart of England.

Bakewell: A Dickensian Delight Begin your festive adventure in the delightful market town of Bakewell, where time seems to stand still, and the spirit of Charles Dickens comes alive. As the streets twinkle with fairy lights and traditional decorations, Bakewell exudes a warmth that invites visitors to explore its narrow alleys and charming corners. The Dickensianthemed Christmas markets showcase the talents of local artisans, offering an array of unique gifts and crafts. And, of course, no visit to Bakewell is complete without indulging in the world-renowned Bakewell Pudding—a sweet treat that has delighted taste buds for generations.

Matlock Bath: Riverside Radiance

Venture along the picturesque Derwent Valley to Matlock Bath, a town that transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The illuminations along the River Derwent cast a magical glow over the town, creating a captivating riverside spectacle. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, where the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and the festive lights

reflect off the water, creating a scene straight from a holiday postcard. Matlock Bath's unique charm is sure to leave you feeling enchanted.

to add a touch of cultural delight to your Christmas getaway.

Derby: Cathedral Quarter Festivities Conclude your Derbyshire Christmas adventure in the vibrant city of Derby, where Chatsworth House: Grandeur in Lights the Cathedral Quarter comes alive with No festive visit to Derbyshire would be festive cheer. Explore the cobbled streets complete without a stop at the magnificent Chatsworth House. The ancestral home of the adorned with twinkling lights, and immerse Duke and Duchess of Devonshire transforms yourself in the joyous atmosphere created by carol singers and street performers. The into a glittering showcase of lights and decorations during the Christmas season. The stunning Derby Cathedral becomes a focal point for Christmas celebrations, hosting Chatsworth Christmas Market, set against special services and concerts throughout the the backdrop of the stately home, features season. Don't miss the opportunity to sample over 100 stalls offering everything from local delicacies at the street food markets that handcrafted gifts to festive treats. Wander pop up, offering a delectable array of culinary through the festively adorned rooms of the house, each one telling a story of Christmases delights. past, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Derbyshire provides a perfect backdrop this historic estate. for a festive escape during the run-up to Christmas. From the charming markets of Buxton: Spa Town Serenity Bakewell to the grandeur of Chatsworth For a more tranquil and spa-like Christmas House, each town offers a unique and experience, make your way to Buxton. enchanting experience. So, wrap up warm, Known for its natural springs and stunning embrace the holiday spirit, and immerse architecture, Buxton takes on a serene yourself in the magic of Derbyshire this ambiance during the festive season. The historic Buxton Crescent, beautifully adorned Christmas season. Whether you find yourself captivated by the historic charm of Bakewell, with Christmas lights, offers a perfect enchanted by the riverside radiance of setting for a leisurely soak. Explore the Matlock Bath, or immersed in the grandeur town's independent shops, where you can of Chatsworth House, Derbyshire is sure to find unique gifts and local treasures, and embrace the festive spirit in this hidden gem create lasting holiday memories for all who of Derbyshire. If you're lucky, catch a festive venture into its winter embrace. performance at the Buxton Opera House

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Crafting the Perfect Christmas Dinner The holiday season has descended upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by orchestrating the perfect Christmas dinner in the enchanting city of Nottingham? As the streets light up with festive decorations and the crisp winter air fills the atmosphere, it’s time to gather your loved ones around a table adorned with culinary delights that capture the spirit of the season. From succulent roasts to indulgent desserts, here’s an in-depth guide to help you plan and execute the ultimate Christmas dinner experience in the heart of Nottingham.

A Show-Stopping Roast At the heart of every memorable Christmas dinner lies the centrepiece roast. Whether you lean towards the traditional turkey, opt for the richness of beef, or savor the tenderness of lamb, Nottingham’s local butchers and markets offer a diverse range of high-quality meats. To ensure a stress-free celebration, plan ahead and order your chosen centerpiece early. Complete the classic experience with accompaniments like crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and a medley of seasonal vegetables for a festive touch that will leave your guests raving.

Elevate Your Sides with Local Flavors Take your side dishes to new heights by incorporating the rich bounty of local ingredients that Nottingham’s surroundings have to offer. The fertile farmlands surrounding the city provide an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. Consider adding a touch of sophistication to your spread with roasted Brussels sprouts adorned with crispy pancetta, honey-glazed parsnips, and buttered

carrots. Don’t forget to indulge in the richness incorporating traditional British treats such of a well-prepared bread sauce for that extra as the iconic Christmas pudding or delicate layer of culinary delight. mince pies into your dessert selection.

Nottingham’s bakeries and patisseries offer a Decadent Desserts: Sweet Endings tantalizing array of festive desserts, ensuring No Christmas dinner is truly complete you can curate a delightful ensemble that will without a grand finale of decadent desserts leave a lasting impression on your guests. to satisfy every sweet tooth. Consider Cheers to the Season: Beverage Selection Raise a toast to the season with a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages. Nottingham’s local breweries and wineries provide an opportunity to discover the perfect tipple to complement your Christmas dinner. Whether you opt for the warmth of classic mulled wine or prefer the festive spices of a craft beer, Nottingham’s diverse beverage scene has something to suit every palate. Ensure your beverage selection caters to all by having non-alcoholic options available for those who prefer a lighter touch.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere Enhance the festive ambiance

by infusing your dining space with the charm of Nottingham. Adorn your table with holly, ivy, and other seasonal greens to create a natural and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a touch of local craftsmanship with handmade decorations sourced from Nottingham’s bustling Christmas markets, adding a personal and unique flair to your dinner setting.

Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Celebration To guarantee a stress-free celebration, meticulous planning is key. Craft a detailed shopping list, organize your cooking schedule, and consider enlisting the help of friends or family members to share the workload. This strategic approach will allow you to relax and relish the festivities alongside your guests, creating a memorable and joyous Christmas dinner experience.

By incorporating these tips into your Christmas dinner preparations, you’ll not only embrace the local flavors of Nottingham but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the season. Here’s to wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a feast filled with joy and culinary delights!

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Gifts for Him and Her The enchanting season of Christmas is fast approaching, and as Nottingham gears up for the festivities, there’s a palpable sense of joy in the air. The cityscape is adorned with twinkling lights, and the aroma of mulled wine wafts through the streets, creating the perfect ambiance for the spirit of giving. Finding the ideal Christmas gift can be a delightful yet challenging task, but fear not. Let’s embark on a journey through Nottingham’s vibrant offerings, exploring unique gifts for him and her that promise to make this holiday season truly special.

For Him Bespoke Whiskey Tasting Experience Nottingham boasts some of the finest distilleries in the UK, and what better way to treat the man in your life than with a bespoke whiskey tasting experience? Allow him to immerse himself in the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas, learning the intricacies of distillation while savoring carefully crafted spirits.

and educational experience that will linger long after the holiday season.

Classic Nottingham Forest Football Shirt For the sports enthusiast, particularly those dedicated to Nottingham Forest, a classic football shirt is a timeless and cherished gift.

The rich history of the team is encapsulated in the iconic red jersey, making it a symbol of pride for fans.

Whether he’s cheering from the stands or relishing the victories of the past, this jersey is more than apparel—it’s a connection to the heart and soul of Nottingham’s sporting culture. Choose this gift to ignite the passion for football and celebrate the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie.

Gentleman’s Grooming Kit Help him maintain a polished and sophisticated appearance with a high-quality gentleman’s grooming kit. From traditional razors to luxurious shaving creams, this curated collection ensures he looks his best during the holiday season and beyond.

This experience is not just a gift; it’s an A grooming kit is more than a practical opportunity for him to expand his palate and gift; it’s a gesture of care and attention to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship detail. Elevate his daily routine, making each behind each bottle. Nottingham’s distilleries shave a moment of indulgence and self-care. offer an intimate setting, ensuring a memorable Nottingham’s grooming shops offer an array of

products, allowing you to tailor the kit to his preferences and style.

For Her Artisanal Afternoon Tea Experience Treat the special woman in your life to an exquisite afternoon tea at one of Nottingham’s charming tea rooms. This experience goes beyond the ordinary, inviting her to indulge in a symphony of flavors, from delicate sandwiches to handmade pastries, all accompanied by a selection of the finest teas.

Nottingham’s tea rooms provide a haven of tranquility, allowing her to unwind and savor each moment. This gift is not just about food; it’s about creating a sensory experience that lingers in her memory, a celebration of indulgence and refined tastes.

Nottingham Lace Jewelry Embrace the city’s rich textile heritage with intricately crafted Nottingham lace jewelry.

These pieces seamlessly blend tradition with modern style, offering a unique and elegant gift for the fashion-forward woman in your life.

Each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and attention to detail, reflecting the city’s legacy as a hub of lace production. Whether it’s a delicate necklace, a pair of earrings, or a statement bracelet, Nottingham lace jewelry adds a touch of sophistication to her ensemble, making it a truly meaningful and personalized gift.

Personalized Leather-bound Notebook Encourage her creativity with a personalized leather-bound notebook. This thoughtful gift is not just a blank canvas for her thoughts and ideas; it’s a tactile and elegant accessory that complements her style.

Nottingham’s artisanal shops offer a range of options for customization, from embossed initials to carefully selected leather textures.

This notebook becomes a reflection of her individuality, a place to capture dreams, aspirations, and the beauty of everyday life. It’s a gift that transcends the material, symbolizing the importance of her unique voice and perspective.

As the holiday season unfolds in Nottingham, take the opportunity to go beyond the ordinary and select gifts that resonate with the uniqueness of your loved ones. The city’s diverse offerings ensure a plethora of choices, allowing you to curate a Christmas filled with cherished memories and meaningful celebrations.

Whether it’s a whiskey tasting for him or a lace-inspired piece of jewelry for her, these carefully chosen gifts embody the spirit of Nottingham—the blending of tradition with contemporary flair. This Christmas, let the city’s rich tapestry inspire your gift-giving journey, making it a season to remember in the heart of England. May these thoughtful presents bring joy, warmth, and a touch of Nottingham magic to your holiday celebrations.

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Unique Christmas Gift Ideas for Kids and the Indomitable Gift Giver The festive season has descended upon Nottingham, painting the city in hues of red and green. With Christmas carols echoing through the cobbled streets and the scent of mulled wine wafting through the air, it's time to dive into the spirit of giving. This year, let's embark on a journey to discover the perfect gifts for the little ones with twinkling eyes and for those who seem to have it all.

Gifts for the Little Elves:

architectural marvels, these toys foster a love for learning while keeping the little minds engaged and entertained.

Experiential Gifts For those who seem to have everything, consider gifting experiences rather than physical items. Tickets to a West End show, a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Nottingham landscape, or a gourmet cooking class can provide memorable moments that last far beyond the holiday season.

Outdoor Adventure Gear Equip the adventurous spirits with outdoor gear like mini camping sets, nature exploration kits, or even a telescope for stargazing. Nottingham's surrounding countryside provides the perfect backdrop for fostering a love for the great outdoors and Customized Art or Decor Personalized Storybooks encouraging curiosity about the world around Elevate your gift-giving game by commissioning a piece of custom artwork or Immerse the young ones in a world of them. personalized decor. Whether it's a bespoke wonder with personalized storybooks that not painting capturing their favorite memories, only feature their names but also weave them Subscription Boxes a handcrafted sculpture reflecting their into the narrative. This thoughtful gift not Keep the excitement alive throughout personality, or a custom-made piece of only encourages reading but also creates a the year with subscription boxes tailored furniture that adds a touch of elegance to magical, tailor-made adventure just for them. to their interests. Whether it's science their living space, these gifts are sure to be experiments that ignite their curiosity, arts cherished. and crafts that unleash their creativity, or Interactive Learning Toys even a monthly book club that sparks their Combine education with playtime by gifting interactive learning toys. From imagination, subscription boxes offer the gift Gourmet Delights of anticipation and discovery.

Indulge their taste buds with a selection science kits that unlock the mysteries of the of exquisite gourmet treats. A thoughtfully universe to creative building sets that inspire Gifts for the Gift Resistant

curated hamper filled with artisanal chocolates, fine wines, and rare delicacies from Nottingham's local producers is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

Subscription Services From curated wine deliveries to exclusive streaming services offering a treasure trove of entertainment, subscription services can be the gift that keeps on giving. Choose a subscription that aligns with their interests, ensuring that the joy of your thoughtful gift extends throughout the entire year.

This Christmas, let Nottingham be the backdrop to heartwarming moments and thoughtful gifts. Whether you're delighting the little ones or navigating the challenge of finding the perfect present for the person who seemingly has it all, these ideas are bound to make this festive season one to remember.

Happy gifting, Nottingham! May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and the magic of thoughtful giving.

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The holiday season is fast approaching, and in Nottingham, the Christmas spirit is in the air. As the city adorns itself with twinkling lights and festive decorations, it’s time to start thinking about your Christmas wardrobe. In this article, we’ll explore the latest fashion trends and local tips to help you look good and feel great this Christmas in Nottingham.

Dress to Impress When it comes to Christmas fashion, it’s all about dressing to impress. Whether you’re attending a festive gathering, a Christmas market, or a cozy family dinner, a wellthought-out outfit can boost your confidence and set the mood for the season.

For the ladies, this year’s trends include rich jewel-toned dresses, cozy oversized knits, and statement accessories. Don’t be afraid to incorporate sequins, metallics, or faux fur for that extra touch of glamour.

Accessorize with a chunky scarf and a stylish beret to keep warm while looking chic.

Gentlemen, a classic tailored suit in deep shades like navy or forest green is always a win. Pair it with a stylish, seasonal tie and some well-polished shoes for a timeless look. Don’t forget to layer up with a classic overcoat for that extra layer of warmth and sophistication.

is key. Invest in warm yet stylish coats, scarves, and gloves to stay cozy during outdoor activities. Pair your outerwear with festive-themed sweaters for a touch of holiday cheer.

For the ladies, a cozy cashmere or wool coat in a classic shade like camel or charcoal is not only stylish but also incredibly warm. Layer it over a festive sweater and add a knitted beanie for a charming, cold-weather look.

Gentlemen, consider investing in a classic trench coat or a stylish pea coat to keep you warm and stylish. Complement your winter ensemble with a warm woolen scarf and leather gloves for a classic, refined appearance.

The Right Footwear Don’t underestimate the importance of comfortable and stylish footwear. Whether you’re walking around the Christmas market or dancing the night away at a party, your feet deserve some attention. Consider investing in quality boots or closed-toe shoes that are both fashionable and suitable for Nottingham’s winter climate. Look for options with good traction to prevent slips on icy pavements.

For the ladies, knee-high boots or ankle boots with a sturdy heel are not only fashionable but also practical for winter Supporting Local Boutiques outings. Opt for insulated or lined options While high-street fashion is readily available, to keep your feet warm during the colder consider supporting local boutiques and months. designers in Nottingham. These hidden gems Gentlemen, a pair of well-made leather offer unique pieces that will make your outfit boots, whether lace-up or Chelsea style, stand out during the festive season. The Lace can elevate your outfit while providing Market and Hockley are great places to start protection from the elements. Consider your search for exclusive fashion finds. You waterproof options for added convenience might discover handcrafted jewelry, bespoke during rainy or snowy days. hats, or one-of-a-kind accessories that add a personal touch to your festive ensemble.

Festive Face: Beauty and Grooming Looking great extends beyond your Layer Up for the Weather clothing. Consider adding a touch of festive Let’s face it; Nottingham’s winter weather makeup to your look. Bold lip colours can be quite unpredictable. To ensure you and shimmering eyeshadows in rich, look great and feel comfortable, layering seasonal shades can enhance your overall

A Few Words From Dawn After Christmas we are all likely to feel overweight and not happy about ourselves.

Our skin may look dehydrated due to the alcohol intake over the festive period.

The answer to getting our skin to bloom again is Micro needling which stimulates our skin’s natural collagen, reduces fine lines, and will also flatten white raised scars.

The treatment involves tapping a fine needle into the skin with a fast, repetitive motion, using either a single needle or a Dema-roller (a multi-needle device) The procedure can also used for Crow’s Feet (around the eyes), naso-mentalis lines (either side of the mouth) and stretch-marks on the body.

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

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

appearance. For a Christmas-inspired look, experiment with deep red or berry lipsticks and metallic eyeshadows in gold or silver tones.

For gentlemen, grooming is just as important. A well-maintained beard or a fresh clean shave, along with a spritz of a subtle, festive fragrance, can make a significant difference in your confidence and style. Keep your skin hydrated and protected from the cold weather with a good moisturizer.

Stay Active and Maintain a Balanced Diet It’s easy to indulge in delicious holiday treats, but remember to maintain an active lifestyle and eat a balanced diet. Incorporate winter walks around Nottingham’s beautiful parks and nature reserves to keep your spirits high and your body feeling great. Explore locations like Wollaton Park or Sherwood

Forest to enjoy the beauty of the season.

Consider participating in festive fun runs or charity walks that often take place during the holiday season. Staying active can help you balance out those extra holiday calories while enjoying the crisp winter air.

This Christmas season in Nottingham, it’s all about looking good and feeling great. With the right fashion choices, support from local boutiques, and a focus on comfort, you can enjoy the festivities in style. Don’t forget to pay attention to grooming and wellness, ensuring that you radiate confidence and positivity throughout the holiday season.

So, embrace the holiday spirit, and let your fashion choices make this Christmas in Nottingham truly special. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make this holiday season one to remember.

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Embracing the Spirit of Christmas Kingfisher Way, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 4BR

As the festive season approaches, there's a feeling of magic in the air at Kingfisher Court.

We have been getting ready for Christmas for some time now, the process began weeks ago with the team and residents gathering to discuss and plan the activities, events, and theme for this year’s decorations. Everyone brought their own unique ideas to the table, reminiscing about their favourite Christmas traditions and sharing stories of Christmases past.

This week the decorations have gone up, decorating our home is a communal experience, it brings us closer together. We have enjoyed a week of shared laughter, of exchanging stories, we found joy in each other's company, and created lasting memories.

As the big day fast approaches, we are full of the festive spirit, looking forward to the weeks ahead, wrapping our gifts, writing our cards, spending time with our families, and cracking open the sherry.

For more information please contact a member of our friendly team on 01623 306 771 or visit www.kingfishercourtcarehome.co.uk

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Nottingham takes part in national pilot for adult social care assessments Key strengths identified include: Nottingham City Council has welcomed the • Passionate and committed staff providing opportunity to be involved in a pilot of a new approach to the assessment of how local the best care and support possible.

• Work underway to reduce waiting lists authorities undertake delivery of their adult for assessment and reviews. social care duties under the Care Act 2014.

• Positive feedback about culture and The CQC is the independent regulator of leadership with senior staff reported to be health and adult social care in Englandwhich accessible and visible. monitors, inspects and regulates services.

• Areas such as the Supported Living For each of the five local authorities taking Team, reablement and hospital discharge part in the pilot, the CQC has provided working well in providing effective support a report, indicative scores for key areas, to people. and an overall rating – these are indicative • Prevention was a key focus with good not formal ratings. All learning will be examples in practice; through day services incorporated into the formal assessment in promoting independence, use of some process for all local authorities with assistive technology and development of responsibility for adult social care which is expected to start later this year. staff practice in relation to wellbeing, when Nottingham’s report, published today working with people. along with reports for the other pilot • A transformation of the commissioning councils – Birmingham, Lincolnshire, service was underway.

North Lincolnshire and Suffolk – gives an indicative rating of ‘Requires Improvement’. Areas for development include: The report highlights the improvement • Mixed feedback from some teams plans that Nottingham already has in place around caseloads, systems and pathways and reflects progress and changes already between teams, and how teams work with achieved. partners The report sets out key strengths in the • Some gaps identified in the provision of council’s adult social care provision, areas for accessible information for people • Difficulties in relation to people development and next steps. finding suitable accommodation, linked

to the broader challenges in housing capacity in Nottingham • A need for further co-ordinated work to more effectively support people from different cultural and diverse backgrounds.

• Areas such as coproduction were identified by the local authority as needing to improve along with better collection and use of data.

• Working with partners such as health on an individual level was positive however more structural relationships could be developed to improve this.

• Use of advocacy services could be improved, especially support for carers.

Under next steps, the report says that senior staff showed a good awareness in relation to the areas which required improvement and that there was evidence of progress made and further plans of how this would be achieved, but with more work to do.

Cllr Linda Woodings, the council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and

Health, said: “The council is committed to a process of learning and continual improvement to help us to understand and to providing effective social care that deliver good value for our residents, so we welcomed the chance to take part in the CQC pilot as it provided the opportunity for the plans we already have in place to be independently assessed.

“We’re pleased that the CQC has recognised key areas where the council are working well to support local people and we will use the areas identified for development to inform our ongoing improvement work.”

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New hope for patients with blood cancers at Nottingham’s NHS hospitals Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) has become the first centre in the East Midlands to provide an innovative new treatment for blood cancers, offering new hope to adult patients living with these conditions.

NHS England has commissioned NUH to deliver chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR T-cell therapy) at Nottingham City Hospital, where it will provide this highly specialist service for most of the region, including for patients from Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire.

CAR T-cell therapy is a new personalised treatment, which uses the patient’s own genetically modified immune system cells (T-cells) to target and kill cancer cells.

“CAR T-cell represent a significant breakthrough in the field of cancer immunotherapy and represents an exciting step change in blood cancer treatment,” said Dr Nicolas Martinez-Calle, CAR T-Cell Clinical Lead and a consultant haematologist at NUH. “This is significant news for our patients, as the launch of our service at City Hospital means they can access a state-of-the art treatment without the need to travel to other centres in different cities, as was the case previously.”

Dr Mark Bishton, Divisional Research & Innovation Co-Lead for Cancer and Associated Specialties at NUH, said: “The introduction of CAR T-Cell therapy at Nottingham University Hospitals is a great breakthrough for our patients and continues our pioneering work in this area of medicine, including our previous introduction of stem cell therapy and novel anti-cancer therapies at City Hospital.

“Previously, these patients’ outcomes were often very poor, but the CAR T-Cell therapy provides a step change in care

grow in the laboratory.

Once there are enough CAR T-cells, these cells He continued: are frozen and then sent to “Scientific data from the approved CAR T indications back to the hospital where they are reinfused into the is very promising, showing patient following priming unprecedented rates of chemotherapy. complete - and sustained Patients will then spend remission in patients who around 10 days recovering otherwise would have no on Fletcher Ward at City other treatment alternative.

Hospital to be closely And in the case of Diffuse monitored during this period, Large B-cell lymphoma, it before going home. provides an overall survival NUH has invested in advantage compared to staff and new equipment to current therapies.” deliver this new service. The The majority of patients who will receive CAR T-cell treatment will be delivered by the lymphoma and acute therapy at NUH are people leukaemia teams from the with refractory aggressive B-Cell lymphoma, where this Haematology department, has not responded to first line within the existing bone marrow transplant service at treatment.

Nottingham City Hospital.

NHS England has also Catherine Birch will commissioned NUH to be working as the CART deliver the service for other clinical nurse specialist indications typically after alongside other clinicians, failing one or more lines of and the wider team includes treatment, which are Mantle colleagues from critical care cell lymphoma (Brexuand neurology department cel), Transformed follicular who will help manage the lymphoma (Axi-cel), risks associated with this Primary mediastinal large highly specialist treatment.

B-cell lymphoma (Axi-cel) The development of CAR and acute lymphoblastic T services for patients leukaemia (Tisa-cel and will also enable NUH Brexu-cel). to develop more new The first step in this new treatments and innovations therapy involves drawing a in cancer care through the patient’s T-cells from their blood in a process known as NIHR Nottingham Clinical Research Facility. This is leukapheresis. based at NUH and specialises These cells are sent to a secure manufacturing facility. in early phase research into new drugs and medical Here, the T-cells are given technology. new DNA instructions to Patients who are interested act as CAR T-cells with the in accessing the new ability to target lymphoma treatment should discuss the and similar disease directly treatment or their suitability and with high efficacy. The with their clinician in the first newly re-engineered CAR instance.

T-cells then multiply and improvement.”

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Nottingham College Photography Students’ Showcase Their Work at Djanogly Lakeside Gallery Last week, the talented students from Nottingham College’s Photography programme held an impressive exhibition at the renowned Djanogly Lakeside Gallery.

This important cultural space became a platform for these young artists to showcase their meaningful and evocative work to the

public.

In collaboration with the University of Nottingham, the students produced fantastic pieces that will be on display until January next year. Spearheaded by the A‑level Photography course, the exhibition also features collaborations from Foundation Art and Design/​Photography FDA students.

The students worked closely with curator Isobel Elstob and gallery manager Neil Walker to create works in response to the current world-class exhibition ‘​ Reimag(in) ing the Victorians’. The exhibition also includes images from Autograph ABP (the Association of Black Photographers), highlighting the experiences of individuals with African, Caribbean, and South Asian descent in 19th-century Britain.

The exhibition weaves together historical narratives and sheds light on contemporary issues, providing a platform for the students to express their voices and share stories that deeply matter to them.

Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, evoking emotions, enlightening viewers, and celebrating the power of art.

For many of the students, this exhibition represents the culmination of their first project as photography students at Nottingham College, making it an even more impressive achievement.

The exhibition will remain open to the public until January next year so you can still attend the talent of these budding photographers.

“They got their inspiration from ideas of hidden stories, things that were untold, or issues that they thought deserved to have more of a spotlight shone on them.

They also drew inspiration from things that were swept under the carpet or were kept too quiet. They have really outdone themselves with coming up with a lot of creative responses to that theme. “ Elizabeth Morley — Photography Teacher

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Shayden crowned this year’s countywide Outstanding Achievement 4Uth award winner An inspirational Nottinghamshire teenager is celebrating after winning a prestigious youth award in recognition of his tireless voluntary work and the support he provides young people in his community.

Shayden West was named the countywide winner of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Outstanding Achievement 4Uth Award for 2023 at a glittering ceremony at County Hall on Friday 24 November.

The 17-year-old, who attends Quarrydale Academy in Sutton-in-Ashfield and is also a former Member of Youth Parliament for Ashfield, was nominated for the award by Zoe Taylor, a Youth Worker at Quarrydale Young People’s Centre.

She said, “Shayden supports with weekly group sessions to help young people be more positive and have a better outlook on life.

“He sets a topic for each group session to discuss male mental health and how they can make changes to live their lives to full capacity.

“There are a lot of young people that need his help and appreciate the support that

he offers them. Year 7s, who have started coming to the centre, will see him at school and ask him questions or for help with things, because they feel more comfortable”.

Shayden also volunteers at a homeless centre at weekends, alongside his Saturday job, and has helped to set up a sensory garden for adults with learning disabilities at an allotment in Sutton-in-Ashfield.

Dedicating four nights a week to volunteering at the Quarrydale Young People’s Centre, whilst juggling his A-level studies, Shayden’s kind and helpful nature is appreciated outside of the centre as well.

Councillor Tracey Taylor, the County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families, hailed Shayden’s dedication to helping others improve their lives.

She said, “Shayden’s relentless efforts to support the young people in his community could not go unnoticed.

“Supporting with weekly group sessions at the council’s Quarrydale Young People’s Centre, alongside working towards his A-levels, is a huge commitment for somebody of his age.

“I commend him for taking on such responsibility and helping to make a positive and influential change to those around him whilst doing so.

“The passion and enthusiasm that he has shown for being a mentor and providing a regular support network to aid those with mental health challenges is inspiring to so many.

“I am thrilled that he is the countywide winner of this year’s awards and delighted that he and the other young people could join us for the awards evening, so that we could

acknowledge them in person for their efforts.”

The annual event at County Hall brought together all the county’s seven district winners and their proud families, who watched videos showcasing their triumphs and inspirational stories.

The event was attended by around 100 guests, including members of the youth service and County Council Chairman, Councillor John Ogle.

He said, “It’s always a pleasure to be able to gather and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of Nottinghamshire’s young people.

“This is the 12th year of the 4Uth Awards and each year we are consistently amazed at the difficulties they manage to overcome, whilst managing to help and support others as well.

“They are all very deserving and should be extremely proud of themselves, as I am sure Nottinghamshire is.”

The other district award winners are: Leah Cholerton,16, from Broxtowe, has overcome barriers having been born with several health conditions. She has grown in confidence since joining Stapleford’s Young People’s Centre and shown sheer determination in developing and moving forward.

Edward Robinson, 11, from Bassetlaw, has become a substantial support for his family when dealing with the additional, complex needs of his younger brother.

Jamie Thorley, 20, from Rushcliffe, has overcome ‘many personal challenges’ to become a voice for young people who are in care – drawing on his own experiences and ‘personal struggles’ of once being in care himself.

Mia Louise Smith, 14, from Mansfield, has overcome her shyness and worked to help others by tirelessly devoting many hours to fundraising in the community.

Megan Towers,15, from Gedling, manages challenging health issues with dignity and bravery and has become a positive mentor for her peers at The Loco Young People’s Centre in Netherfield.

Reece Martin, 16, from Newark and Sherwood, has proven to be a key ‘asset’ at Dukeries Young People’s Centre in Ollerton, where he ‘helps out so much’ and ‘volunteers in the local community’.

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Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you find yourself grappling with grief and uncertainty, this comprehensive guide is here to provide support and guidance for readers in the UK. We offer practical steps, emotional advice, and a deeper understanding of the grieving process to help you through this difficult time.

Allow Yourself to Grieve Grief is a natural and individual process. It is important to acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to grieve in your own way. Give yourself permission to feel a range of emotions, such as sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief. Understand that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone’s journey is unique. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who can offer a listening ear or professional grief counseling if needed.

Informing the Authorities

When a loved one passes away, it is necessary to inform the relevant authorities. Register the death with the local Registrar of Births, Deaths, and Marriages within five days. The funeral director can guide you through this process, providing necessary paperwork and assistance. They will also arrange for the transportation and care of your loved one’s body. The death certificate obtained from the Registrar will be needed for various administrative purposes.

Funeral Arrangements Funeral planning can be an emotionally taxing task, but it provides an opportunity to honor your loved one’s memory. Decide whether you want a burial or cremation and make arrangements accordingly. Funeral directors can offer guidance, support, and practical help during this time. They will assist in organizing the funeral service, coordinating with the venue, providing transport, and helping you select caskets,

urns, or headstones. Consider involving family and friends in the planning process, as their input and presence can provide comfort and solace.

Handling Financial Matters Notify the relevant organizations about your loved one’s passing, including banks, insurance companies, and pension providers. Obtain multiple copies of the death certificate, as it will be required for various administrative purposes. Contact the executor of the will or seek legal advice to ensure all financial matters are appropriately handled. Gather information about your loved one’s assets, debts, and outstanding bills. Consider reaching out to a professional financial advisor to help you navigate the complex landscape of financial matters during this challenging time.

Seeking Support Grieving is a complex journey, and seeking support is crucial. In the UK, there are numerous resources available to help you cope.

Support groups, bereavement counseling, and helplines like Cruse Bereavement Care can provide solace and understanding during this challenging time. These organizations offer a safe space to express your feelings, share experiences with others who have lost loved ones, and learn coping mechanisms.

Consider reaching out to local charities or religious organizations, as they often

Navigating the Path of Loss

G

rief, that universal human experience, extends its touch across all boundaries and cultures, leaving no corner untouched. In the resilient and supportive community of Nottinghamshire, the process of dealing with the loss of a loved one can often be a challenging journey.

Whether it is the passing of a close family member, a cherished friend, or a beloved pet, the tumultuous waves of emotions can be profoundly overwhelming. This article delves deep into the intricacies of bereavement, offering a heartfelt and comprehensive guide to aid those in Nottinghamshire and beyond in navigating this complex terrain.

Understanding Grief At its core, grief is a profoundly personal and unpredictable journey. Its non-linear nature defies any fixed timeframe, and its expression varies widely from person to person. In

Nottinghamshire, as in any community, acknowledging and embracing this individuality is crucial. It's essential to recognize that everyone's grief is different and that there is no 'right' or 'wrong' way to grieve. The emotional rollercoaster may include feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief.

The key lies in allowing yourself and others the space to feel and express these emotions without any form of judgment.

Seeking Support Nottinghamshire is built on a foundation of strong community bonds. During these difficult times, it's these very bonds that can be your lifeline. Friends, family, and neighbors can provide essential emotional support and comfort.

Additionally, local support groups and counseling services that specialize in grief and bereavement are invaluable resources. These

organizations offer a safe haven for sharing your feelings and connecting with others who can genuinely understand the unique challenges that come with loss.

Remembering and Celebrating Celebrating the life of a departed loved one is a powerful way to honor their memory.

Within the landscapes of Nottinghamshire lie numerous venues – serene parks, enchanting gardens, and welcoming community centers – where you can host meaningful memorial gatherings. Embracing activities that your loved one cherished can infuse these events with authenticity, whether it's a riverside picnic, an art exhibit, or the ceremonial planting of a tree. By fostering a positive legacy, the process of mourning can gradually transform into a deeply significant tribute.

Self-Care and Healing In the midst of grappling with bereavement, it's easy to overlook the importance of self-care. Yet, caring for oneself is essential for both emotional and physical wellbeing. Nottinghamshire's landscapes offer a plethora of healing environments – from the timeless beauty of Sherwood Forest to the calming embrace of the Trent River. Engaging in activities that resonate with your spirit, such as leisurely walks, dedicated pursuit of hobbies, or participation in local events, can provide solace and a path towards healing.

Preserving Memories Memories stand as the treasure chest that safeguards the essence of our departed loved ones. One powerful way to honor these memories is through creating lasting memorials. A thoughtful scrapbook, a cherished photo album, or a digital collage can help keep their spirit alive. Further, consider

offer support tailored to your specific needs. Additionally, online communities and forums can provide a sense of connection and support, allowing you to connect with others who are going through a similar experience.

Losing a loved one is a deeply personal experience, and there is no right or wrong way to navigate through it.

Remember to take care of yourself physically, emotion-

ally, and mentally. Seek solace in your support network, the available resources, and professional assistance when needed. In time, healing will come, and you will find your own path toward acceptance and hope. Remember, you are not alone, and there is support available to guide you through your grief. May the memories of your loved one provide comfort and strength as you

involving yourself in local charitable initiatives or organizations that held significance for your loved one. This ensures that their impact continues to ripple through the community, an enduring legacy of their presence.

a more sustainable path towards healing.

Professional Guidance Should the weight of grief become too overwhelming, seeking professional help is an act of courage and strength. Nottinghamshire boasts a diverse array of mental health services, therapists, and counselors specializing in grief support.

Taking this step can equip you with invaluable tools to cope with the emotional turmoil that accompanies bereavement, fostering

Within Nottinghamshire's embrace, the journey through the tumultuous waves of grief is one that requires patience, self-compassion, and the unwavering support of the community. Grief, as a natural response to losing someone dear, manifests in myriad ways, all of which are valid. By embracing support, celebrating cherished memories, practicing self-care, and seeking professional assistance as needed, the journey through bereavement transforms into a tribute – a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying strength of a community like Nottinghamshire's.

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Vale Clearances: Redefining Removals, Reshaping Futures In just three years, Vale Clearances has stormed into the property clearance and removals industry, sparking a revolution that unites innovation with community impact. This isn't your runof-the-mill company; this is a force for change.

Vale Clearances isn't just clearing properties; they're transforming an entire industry. With a dedicated commitment to sustainability, unrivalled customer service, and a deeprooted connection to the local community, their rise has been spectacular.

Since launching, Vale Clearances, has amassed over 300 five-star reviews, a testament to their unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. But their impact stretches further. In an industry riddled with wastage, they've pioneered a zero-landfill approach, setting a new standard for the industry and earning impressive accolades like the Environmental Champion, Businessperson of the Year, and the Judges' Prestige Award at the Grantham Business Awards 2023.

Their R3 Project—reusing, recycling, redistributing—has become the cornerstone of their impact. By championing this initiative, Vale Clearances hasn't just transformed waste management; they've become a vital support for the local community. Rather than discard usable items, they redistribute them to those in need.

Through partnering with charitable organisations and

directly assisting families within the local community they’ve donated hundreds of items and furnished over 50 homes for families. Their actions speak volumes, demonstrating a company that delivers not just furniture but a renewed sense of dignity and stability.

Vale Clearances embodies more than just a business; it's a beacon of optimism and change. In a world where profit often overshadows impact, they stand tall, showcasing that success can be achieved with a sustainable, empathetic ethos. As they press onward, their mission remains clear: to provide exceptional service while making a positive impact on the world around us.

To find out more about Vale Clearances visit www. valeclearances.co.uk

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THE BLAZE SET FOR BIGGEST SUMMER YET The Blaze are set for an expanded fixture list in 2024, with an increase in the number of T20 fixtures and twice as many games to be held at Trent Bridge.

The East Midlands’ elite women’s outfit will play four times at their Nottinghamshire home in the 2024 campaign, twice in the Charlotte Edwards Cup T20 competition and twice in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy 50-over campaigns.

For the first time, too, the Charlotte Edwards Cup group stage will be extended to 10 rounds of fixtures, compared to seven in 2023.

Should final appearances become a reality once

again, Kirstie Gordon’s cohort will also benefit from showpiece events on home soil, with the Incora County Ground (Derbyshire) and Uptonsteel County Ground (Leicestershire) selected to host the Charlotte Edwards Cup (Saturday 22 June) and Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy (Saturday 21 September) finals days respectively.

The side’s sporting summer begins on Saturday 20 April at Edgbaston, locking horns with Central Sparks in the Charlotte Edwards Cup. A headline group fixture on Friday 31 May sees The Blaze and Notts Outlaws team-up on Vitality Blast Off Weekend, when Central

Sparks and Northamptonshire Steelbacks visit Trent Bridge.

Over 2,900 attended The Blaze’s previous involvement in a double-header at Trent Bridge, against Sunrisers in 2023.

Their Trent Bridge fixture list begins with back-to-back 50-over games on Monday 6 and Wednesday 8 May, when they welcome Thunder and Western Storm, with a floodlit Charlotte Edwards Cup fixture against Northern Diamonds on Thursday 23 May preceding the highly anticipated double-header.

The Blaze will enjoy home matches at five venues in total, with Derbyshire’s Incora County

Ground, Leicestershire’s Uptonsteel County Ground, Loughborough University and Lindum CC, Lincolnshire also hosting the side as East Midlands side

extend the cricket played in their region.

Leicestershire (Friday 7 June) and Derbyshire (Sunday 16 June) will host The Blaze’s other home

Charlotte Edwards Cup double-headers - versus Western Storm and South East Stars.

NOTTS TO VISIT ABU DHABI FOR PRE-SEASON TOUR

Nottinghamshire are bound for Abu Dhabi in March 2024, for their first overseas pre-season tour since 2019.

contesting a two-day red-ball match.

The Green and Golds’ involvement in the pre-season tour will run from 11 to The trip will see the first-team 22 March, with all fixtures to be held squad conclude their pre-season at Abu Dhabi’s flagship Zayed Cricket programme by facing their fellow Academy Complex, which hosted First-Class counties in a competitive Nottinghamshire for the Champion environment, a matter of weeks before County fixture in 2011. the start of the domestic summer.

Members and supporters wishing Alongside Essex, Somerset, to join Notts in Abu Dhabi can take Warwickshire and Yorkshire, Notts advantage of spectator packages will travel to the UAE to compete organised by tour operator Sporta in a three-day T20 competition (also Tours. featuring an Abi Dhabi XI), before

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Page 43.

Hope And Glory ???

Our first fixture in November saw us turn our attentions away from the league and head towards Newark & Sherwood United for a Notts Senior Cup tie. As most of you are aware the opposition on this night had beaten us in last seasons final and were expected to give us another rough ride in this season’s tournament. With an axe to grind and a wrong to right we would head out to Collingham with only one agenda, and that was to rob ‘The Highwaymen’ as they are known and ensure that their purse from last May was empty as well as a short-lived triumph.

Newark & Sherwood United 0-2 Carlton Town On the night our boys headed into this one knowing that a second defeat in only a few months against our Step five opposition would be something that they would never be able to live down.

From the offset our tactics were to get at them and take control of the fixture and ensure that they were the ones on the night that had to be reactive. We knew the tie would be a physical encounter and before the game had barely begun, we saw how the opposition were going to enact their gameplan. Within the first few seconds from the kickoff, we were awarded a freekick when our dangerous winger Lamin Manneh was recklessly challenged, and for the most of the evening this was how he was going to be treated. Despite the efforts of the home side to try to ruffle our feathers we would enact our gameplan professionally with patience and at times excellent precision. Our players kept to the task and despite the home side’s bully boy tactics we would play some quality football without any real reward. We would finally get this reward for our excellence just after the half hour mark when the ball

would be pumped up the field to the already bullied Manneh, he would get a kind ricochet from the advancing keeper and slot the ball home for a well-deserved lead. The game was pretty much the same throughout with Carlton holding most of the good cards throughout, and within ten minutes of the second half our lead would be doubled when Alex Hardwick after some nice interplay would burst the net from a tight angle. We wouldn’t add to the tally for the remainder of the tie but what we did do was overturn the result from May with a display of dominance.

Ashington 4-0 Carlton Town Four days on and it was back to league action and a fixture against the most northerly side in the division.

Having travelled to the home of the recently deceased ‘Sir Bobby Charlton’ and off the back of a very good midweek performance we were looking to continue our assault to the top spot in the table. We know our opponents in the north-east of the country whoever they may be will have a hunger and passion when it comes to being involved in something and that the character of the people from this area of the world have a strong desire. Oh, how evident this was on the day, from the first whistle the recently promoted side would go for the jugular, they would hit us with attack after attack as their desire to show what they describe themselves as ‘total footballers’ became apparent. On a pitch that resembled a ‘weeded bog’ they would move the ball extremely well and very fluently and within the first seven minutes would stun us with two goals. Things would settle on the score side of things for us until half-time, but the home side would still be throwing everything

at us, including the council estate where the pitch was situated in the middle of. The second period started like the first and within nine more minutes the home side had added two further goals. We would have to stand firm and would be very limited with our attacking furores for the remainder of the half as the home side were well-worthy winners.

Carlton Town 3-0 Brighouse Town After the performance the week before it was now the time for our boys to stand up and be counted against a side that we hadn’t beaten in over five years. A welcome return to Stoke Lane after many weeks of not having a home fixture would be just the place to do it to get our campaign back on the road. This fixture was always going to be a toughie and with a decent first half performance behind us the blues from the week before were quickly forgotten. We hit the second half running and within ten minutes of the restart we would open our account when skipper Niall Davie would find the net.

Ten minutes on and he would

fire home from the penalty spot to double our advantage before leaving it until the last minute to claim his third of the day and send Brighouse home with their tails wagging between their legs.

Consett 2-1 Carlton Town Another trip north followed a week later and a chance to avenge our five-nil thrashing of last season was here for the taking. We started well and with our confidence now brimming again went at our opponents with our usual tempo and flair. We would go into the break having missed two very decent chances to get a grip of the game and this left the home side fortunate to still be in the game. The second period would swing slightly against us as we still tried to play the game the way that we only know and just on the hour mark we would concede due to poor marking. Even at this stage the result of the game was still in doubt as both sides were still trying to out-flank each other. The next goal, if there was to be one, would determine the outcome of the result and unfortunately for us it would be the home side who

would score it. We would hit one back just before injury time when Zac Hill from the bench would power a shot past the keeper as our ascendancy on the field was now proving to be a real problem for Consett. With only seconds to go Mussa Jawara was put through and was heading for a one-onone situation with the home keeper when the referee would blow for full-time leaving us very disappointed at what we believe was an injustice in added time.

With football being restricted in November due to some poor weather conditions we are still in a handy position within the league. Despite

not winning all our games and being a couple of fixtures behind some of the teams above we know that our situation compared to this time last season is looking a lot rosier. December will be an exceptionally busy month also and this will be the time of the season where we must regain our consistency that we had through pre-season and through the commencement of this league campaign. We know that if we can get the results in this month that teams will be very wary of us and this will make for a very enterprising second half of the season.

Article by Phil Jennings

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Page 44.

PANTHERS SIGN FORWARD AUSTIN FARLEY

The Nottingham Panthers have signed 30-year-old forward Austin Farley.

The American arrives in Nottingham with extensive experience in North America and more recently in the top leagues in Europe.

Farley scored over 100 points in four seasons in the NCAA with the University of Minnesota-Duluth, earning himself an AHL call-up with Lake Erie Monsters.

In 2016, he moved to play in Sweden and

spent two years in the Allsvenskan league before playing for Luleå in the top-flight SHL.

is an elite playmaker. He's an extremely smart player and he sees the ice very well.

"He has the ability to create plays and one He returned to North America in the 2019-20 that we believe can produce offensively very season and had spells with Kalamazoo Wings well at this level. and Kansas City Mavericks.

"I really like his work ethic and is a guy that I He moved to play in the Slovakian top flight believe will fill in greatly with this group as a in 2021 and has spent the past two-and-a-half player but also a team-mate." seasons with HC Nove Zamky.

Farley, who trained with his new team-mates Head Coach, Jonathan Paredes, said: "Austin for the first time today, said: "It was great to

get out there on the ice with the guys.

"The welcome I have had has been fantastic and you can see these guys enjoy each other's company on and off the ice.

"I saw the game on Sunday and the support was awesome and I am looking forward to playing in front of these great fans."

Farley will wear number 89 during his time in Nottingham.

Each Edition of the Nottingham Now has an estimated readership of 50,000 from Social Media and online e-edition. Published by Devil Tree Media Ltd, 92L Rolleston Dr, Arnold, Nottingham, NG5 7JP.