Home Blog Page 135

Christmas lights switch-ons across Gedling borough

Gedling Eye
-
0
Christmas lights switch-ons across Gedling borough

We may have only just packed the Halloween decorations away and emerged from bonfire displays – but we all know what’s next up…

Christmas is peaking from around the corner and engineers have already been pinning up lights across Gedling borough in preparation for the switch to be flicked.

Various events are already planned and being promoted across the area where the official arrival of the festive season is accompanied by dancers, musicians and choirs all making us feel Christmassy.

We have compiled a list of the events on the calendar.

Arnold – Friday, November 22 @The AMP – 4.30pm

The Christmas Tree Light Switch On takes place on Friday 22 November from 4.30pm, outside the AMP building in Arnold town centre. There will be performances from local schools and choirs, street entertainers and even a visit from Santa!

A special festive market will also take place along Front Street on the day, from 12 noon until 7pm, organised by AMP Live, with over 20 traders selling gifts and festive food.

An indoor festive craft fair at Arnold Methodist Church will be open on 22 Nov from 5-7.30pm, with stalls selling cards, crafts, festive food and gifts. They also have a Christmas craft fair on Saturday 23 Nov from 10am-2pm.

The Christmas tree lights will be switched on by the Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Ron McCrossen and the Youth Mayor, Stella Clarke at 6.30pm. It will be followed by a lantern parade with the Can Samba troupe along Front Street to Eagle Square from 6.45pm. Santa will be on site from 4.30pm with Arnold and Mapperley Rotary.

A number of local businesses, including several at the AMP building, will be staying open late this evening. Visit Arnold Post Office at The AMP for a complimentary helium balloon on the evening of the light switch on.

Stage timings

  • 4.30pm – Robert Mellors Primary School
  • 4.55pm – Arnold View Primary School
  • 5.15pm – Coppice Farm Primary School
  • 5.35pm – Pinewood Infant School
  • 5.55pm – Flying High ‘Cast of the Wizard of Oz’
  • 6.10pm – Ernehale Flying High Academy
  • 6.30pm – Switch On with the Mayor and Youth Mayor
  • 6.45pm – Gedling Fun Chorus

The compere for the Switch on event is the Youth Mayor, Stella Clarke. Please note, all timings are approximate and are subject to change.

Mapperley – Sunday, November 24 @The Precinct -12pm

There’s a great line up of entertainment planned to celebrate the lights being switched on We also have a great variety of stalls, including food, local crafts and charities.

Come along from 12pm till 6pm for a fantastically festive afternoon in to the evening.

Carlton – Friday, November 29 @ Carlton Hill – 5pm

Carlton Hill Lights switch on.

– Santa by Carlton Rotary Club

– Stage Acts (Choirs, Bands, Community Sing Along, Dancing, Musical Theatre)

– Over 35 stalls (Food, Drink & Goods)

– Street Performers by Dice and Balls

The tree will be switched on at 6pm.

Food & Drink Stalls will be:
* Little Big Sicily
* Falafel Baffel
* Sweet Loaded Pretzels
* Paddington’s Waffle Station
* Cloddy’s Coffee
* Pizza Mici
* Jos Tasty Creations
* Jodie Maes Kitchen
* Just Delicious
* KRB Indian Street Food

Goods stalls will be:
* Deb’s Creations
* B.E.S.T
* NZ Creations
* Timbercraft
* Lincoln Green Brewery
* Help Animals UK
* Aid 2 Gambia with kids light up toys
* Radcliffe Donkey Sanctuary – Prize every time tombola
* CHAG Stall with an Adults only tombola with alcoholic prizes
* Crazy Nanny Crafts
* Emma’s Pocket Money Toys
* Miniminglets
* Designer Art by Jacquie
* By Mli – Custom Tops
* Edwina Kung
* Blissfully Fragrant & Fragrance Effect
* Vurona Trinkets
* Vindra’s African Gems
* Malcs Balloons
* City Hub Ukraine
* Slimming World Carlton
* Age Friendly Carton
* King George V Park
* White Tiger Kickboxing
* Simply Dance

Netherfield – Friday, November 29 @ St George’s Centre -2pm

Netherfield Christmas light switch on event will take place at St George’s Centre between 2-6pm 

There will be a Christmas market, raffle, festive food & drinks, Netherfield Junior School choir performance,

The Lights are being switched on at 4pm.

Santa visiting from 4.30pm.

Calverton – Friday, November 29 @ Calverton Square – 3pm

The Calverton Christmas light switch on will be held on Friday, November 29.

Those popping along can enjoy a free ferris wheel, merry-go round again and performances from school choirs and Carlton Brass Band.

Gedling Village – Friday, November 29 @ Miners’ Memorial

Gedling Village Christmas Tree Lights Switch-on will take place on Friday, November 29.

It starts at 6pm at Miners Memorial, Main Road and will be followed by refreshments in All Hallows Church

There will be singing by All Hallows School Choir and a visit from Santa

Ravenshead – Saturday, November 30 @Village Hall – 4.30pm

Ravenshead Village Christmas Lights Switch on takes place from 5pm at the Village Hall, Ravenshead

The Lantern Parade will leave from the Sherwood Ranger at 4.30pm, go up Church Drive and then to the Village Hall in time for the Lights switch on at 5.00pm. 

Santa Claus will be making a special visit with a gift for all the children.

There will be a licenced bar, live Music a carol sing-a-long and festive food.

You can find out more details about the planned celebrations on our new events page

Bestwood Village man in court charged with Hucknall arson attacks

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Bestwood Village man in court charged with Hucknall arson attacks

Detectives investigating a string of suspected arson attacks have placed a Bestwood Village man before the courts.

Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to a series of fires in Hucknall between 10pm on Monday (11) and 12.20am on Tuesday (12).

A number of vehicles and fencing were damaged following incidents in Griffiths Way, Pagett Close and Story Gardens.

Detectives, neighbourhood police and other teams have been carrying out local inquiries alongside fire service colleagues as part of an investigation.

Daniel Harrison, aged 31, of Hill Road, Bestwood Village, has been charged with five counts of arson and appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court yesterday (14).

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on December 12, 2024.

Detective Sergeant Nathan Bingham, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We understand these incidents will have caused concern in the community so I’m pleased to share this update in our investigation.

“Police patrols were immediately increased in response to the fires and neighbourhood teams will be in the area to provide further reassurance over the coming days.

“Any arson attack has the potential to result in devastating consequences and any report is investigated thoroughly by the fire service and police.”

The history and meaning behind Gedling borough’s pub names – Burton Joyce

Gedling Eye
-
0
The history and meaning behind Gedling borough’s pub names – Burton Joyce

Some of Gedling borough’s pubs have some really interesting names so we decided to explore their origins.

This week we have uncovered the history of three watering holes in Burton Joyce and found out how they came to get their titles.

Cross Keys, Main Street

Cross Keys Burton Joyce
PICTURED: The Cross Keys in Burton Joyce

There are many pubs throughout the county with this name and refers to St Peter, to who Jesus said: “I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Historians have said that an inn called Cross Keys has stood on the same site in Burton Joyce for at least three hundred years.

One of its most famous landlords was John Hogg, who ran the pub from 1860. Hogg was a butcher by trade, but he also kept wicket for the Nottinghamshire cricket team.

The pub building used to be made up of a series of small bars – but these were knocked into one room around 1985.

The Cross Keys car park was once the site of The Wheatsheaf public house, which was demolished in 1938 and then rebuilt a short distance away on Church Road, where it still stands today.

Lord Nelson, Chestnut Grove

The Lord Nelson on Chestnut Grove

This pub nearest to the Trent was named after Horatio Nelson (1758-1805), hero of the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

The pub building is believed to be over 200 years old and was modernised in 1933.

Throughout its history it has undergone a number of changes of name. In 1809 it was known as The Swan and Salmon, in 1811 as The White Swan, and in 1826 it was referred to as The Swan.’

Between 1878 to 1881, the landlord of the Nelson was Alfred Shaw, an outstanding spin bowler who captained both the Nottinghamshire and England cricket teams and bowled the first ball in the first ever Test Match. Shaw is buried in the churchyard at All Hallows in Gedling.

Famous cricketer Alfred Shaw bowled the first ball in the first ever Test Match and in later life became the landlord of the Lord Nelson

Wheatsheaf, Church Road

The Wheatsheaf on Church Road

The former pub of this name used to occupy a position next door to the Cross Keys public house in the village, a site now occupied by the latter house’s car park.

The current building dates from 1938 when major development work occurred in Burton Joyce. The architect was Cecil Howitt who designed the ‘Council House’ in Nottingham’s Old Market Square.

A common sign since the 17th century, a sheaf of wheat appears in several coats of arms, including those of the Worshipful Company of Bakers (1486). It is also one of the devices on the arms of Brewers’ Company.

There are numerous inns throughout the county with this sign.

GEDLING BOROUGH COUNCIL: Cllr Jenny Hollingsworth confirmed as new deputy leader following Michael Payne becoming MP

David Bratton
-
0
GEDLING BOROUGH COUNCIL: Cllr Jenny Hollingsworth confirmed as new deputy leader following Michael Payne becoming MP

Gedling Borough Council has a new deputy leader following previous incumbent Councillor Michael Payne becoming Gedling MP in July’s general election.

Following a meeting of the Gedling Labour Group on Monday, November 11, Cllr Jenny Hollingsworth has today been formally appointed by the Leader of the Council as the new Deputy Leader of Gedling Borough Council

Cllr Hollingsworth has been a Gedling Borough Councillor for over 17 years and has been on the Cabinet for 13 years in various roles, most recently, the Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Regeneration and she is the ward member for Gedling Village.

She will take up the role with immediate effect alongside the leader Councillor John Clarke MBE. 

Gedling-Borough-Council
Gedling leader John Clarke, left and previous deputy leader Michael Payne, right. (Credit: Joseph Raynor)

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said: “I am incredibly pleased to announce that Cllr Jenny Hollingsworth will become the Deputy Leader of this great borough with immediate effect.

“I have worked with Jenny for many years and her dedication to her community and the role of Councillor has been paramount in the groups decision to appoint her.

“She will be a great ambassador for the area and I know she will want to do her very best to ensure we continue to serve the people of Gedling and improve their lives.

Deputy Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth said: “I am honoured to have been selected by the Labour group to become the new Deputy Leader of Gedling Borough Council and the first female one and I look forward to getting on with the role and working with the Leader on the council’s priorities.

I would like to say a big thank you to the outgoing Deputy Leader, our new MP for Gedling, Michael Payne, for his outstanding work over the last 13 years as the Deputy. The borough is a much-improved place thanks to his dedication and I will continue his work and ensure that our community are at the forefront of everything we do.” 

Nottinghamshire County Council welcomes new Tobacco and Vapes Bill to address youth smoking and vaping concerns

Lucy Linton
-
0
Nottinghamshire County Council welcomes new Tobacco and Vapes Bill to address youth smoking and vaping concerns

Nottinghamshire County Council has welcomed the Government’s new Tobacco and Vapes Bill, introducing stronger measures to reduce youth access to tobacco and vaping products and extend smoke-free environments.

The interim director of Public Health for Nottinghamshire, Vivienne Robbins, said, “We know that most people start smoking before the age of 20, so increasing the age of sale for tobacco products is likely to be effective in reducing smoking levels.”

Robbins expressed concerns about the rise of young people vaping and the risks of second-hand smoke, particularly for children.

Research has revealed that over 300,000 vapers have never smoked

While vaping is often promoted as a tool to help smokers quit, findings from Action on Smoking and Health reveal that over 300,000 vapers have never smoked, with 27% starting simply to give it a try.

Robbins warned, “For smokers, vapes can be an effective quit aid… But for non-smokers, vapes are addictive and not harmless.”

Smoking rates in Nottingham have declined in recent years, now affecting 10% of adults in the county. However, smoking continues to be the leading cause of death and ill health in Nottinghamshire, contributing to approximately 8,000 hospital admissions each year.

To support those wanting to quit, Nottinghamshire’s public health team offers free local services, including personalised advice, aid and ongoing support. Residents interested in quitting can reach out to Your Health Notts by calling 0115 772 2515 or visiting www.yourhealthnotts.co.uk

In related news, disposable vapes are set to be banned from June 1, 2025, under separate legislation.

Pharmacy owners vote to reduce hours at evening and on weekends in row over funding

David Bratton
-
0
Pharmacy owners vote to reduce hours at evening and on weekends in row over funding

Pharmacies could reduce the amount of hours they open in the evenings and at weekends from the New Year after owners voted in favour of collective action for the first time in their history.

And some could also withdraw from providing emergency contraception and stop smoking services following the historic ballot.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) warned that pharmacists “don’t want to reduce services” but “will be left with no option” if there is not an adequate response from the Government on funding in the coming weeks.

Some 3,339 independent community pharmacies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland took part in the unprecedented ballot, a turnout of 64%.

97.8% said they would serve notice on opening hours above the minimum required by their contract, meaning fewer will be open at evenings and weekends.

According to the NPA, pharmacies are contracted to open for 40 hours a week minimum – although most are open for 50 hours a week on average.

96.1% also voted to withdraw from locally commissioned services such as emergency contraception, addiction support and stop smoking services.

96.8% voted to stop supplying medicine packs that the NHS do not pay pharmacies to provide, other than those covered by the Disability Discrimination Act.

Almost all (99.2%) voted to refuse to co-operate with certain data requests above those required for patient safety and contractual minimums.

‘Something has to give’

NPA chairman Nick Kaye said: “Pharmacies desperately want to support their local communities with access to medicines and advice but have been forced into an untenable position by a decade of underfunding which has led to a record number of closures.

“As a third-generation pharmacist, I deeply care about my patients, as do pharmacy teams across the country, but I have never experienced a situation as desperate as this.

“Pharmacy owners are not a radical bunch, we have never proposed action like this before, but after a decade of underfunding and record closures, something simply has got to give.”

The NPA estimates about 700 pharmacies have shut in England in the last two years, with more than 1,250 closing in the last decade.

Mr Kaye added: “Pharmacies don’t want to reduce services but we will be left with no option but to suggest that pharmacy owners should consider acting on the clear ballot results if government does not act to protect this vital and much-loved part of our health service.”

Arnold Homebase store up for sale and could close if not sold by end of next week

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Arnold Homebase store up for sale and could close if not sold by end of next week

The Homebase store in Daybrook is one of 75 stores now up for sale – with a deadline set for next Friday.

if the stores aren’t sold by the deadline then they could be at risk of closure.

Administrators struck a deal last week to sell the business to retail group CDS, which owns bargain chains The Range and Wilko.

75 of the 130 stores have been snapped up but the fate of staff and remaining shops hangs in the balance.

Homebase Daybrook
Purchased stores will be converted into Range sites

Teneo, which is handling the Homebase sale process, is understood to have been working to find a buyer for as many of the chain’s sites as possible.

Homebase was bought for £1 by investment firm Hilco Capital, which has since brought in a swathe of cost-cutting measures. 

But the retail chain has struggled as customers cut back on spending amid the cost-of-living crisis, and reported an £84.2 million loss last year. 

Colwick Park and Ride closed due to ‘illegal encampment’

Emily Sanchez
-
0
Colwick Park and Ride closed due to ‘illegal encampment’

Colwick Racecourse Park and Ride will close today due to an ‘illegal encampment’.

Nottingham City Council, who runs the site at Colwick Racecourse, made the announcement on social media.

The park and ride site is served by the Gedling 44 service and 50 and has around 450 spaces.

Red 44 bus
PICTURED: The site is served by the Red 44 bus

The authority hasn’t yet confirmed when the site would be reopening.

A spokesman said: “The Racecourse Park and Ride at Colwick will be closed on Thursday (14) due to an illegal encampment.

“We are sorry for the inconvenience but please use alternative options.”

The park and ride has around 470 spaces and is served by two Nottingham City Transport services said their services would operate as normal despite the closures.

Pollution hotspot on A60 through Arnold to be revoked by Gedling Borough Council as emissions reduce

Emily Sanchez
-
2
Pollution hotspot on A60 through Arnold to be revoked by Gedling Borough Council as emissions reduce

Gedling Borough Council is preparing to remove the Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) status from the A60 Mansfield Road area in Arnold as nitrogen dioxide levels consistently meet guidelines.

Introduced in 2011, the AQMA was established due to elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide, mainly from vehicle emissions.

Recent data shows that nitrogen dioxide levels around the A60 Mansfield Road in Arnold have stayed well below the legal limit since 2019, aligning with guidance for lifting the AQMA designation.

Gedling Borough Council, Nottinghamshire County Council and Nottingham City Council, have been promoting sustainable transport options, working with local bus providers to upgrade vehicle emissions, and installing electric vehicle charging points.

Monitoring data now shows a consistent decline in nitrogen dioxide levels along the A60, even after accounting for variances in weather conditions and traffic patterns.

Councillor John Clarke MBE, Leader of Gedling Borough Council said: “This is an important milestone for Gedling and a testament to the steps we’ve taken to improve air quality across the borough.

“Revoking the AQMA shows the progress made in tackling pollution along the A60, and we’ll continue to prioritise measures that benefit the health and wellbeing of our residents. Though the AQMA is being lifted, we’re committed to ongoing monitoring to ensure this progress is maintained.”

This decision follows consultation with the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which supported revoking the AQMA based on three years of compliant results. Additional feedback from local authorities and other consultees raised no objections.

You can find out more about the council’s climate change plans www.gedling.gov.uk/climate-change

Finding the best sump pump for your home

Gedling Eye
-
0
Finding the best sump pump for your home

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, a sump pump is an essential investment. These devices are designed to prevent flooding by removing excess water that collects in a sump basin, typically located in the basement. With various options available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which is the best sump pump for your needs. This article aims to provide valuable insights into selecting the right sump pump for your home, ensuring that you make an informed decision.

Understanding sump pumps

Sump pumps operate by automatically detecting water levels in the sump basin and pumping excess water out and away from your home. They are particularly useful in areas prone to heavy rainfall or where the water table is high. A reliable sump pump can save you from costly repairs caused by flooding and mold growth, making it a crucial part of any homeowner’s flood prevention strategy.

Key features to consider

When searching for the best sump pump, it’s essential to consider several key features:

1. Type of sump pump

There are two primary types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal.

●    Submersible pumps are designed to be placed directly in the water, making them more efficient at handling larger volumes of water. They tend to be quieter and can pump water at a faster rate.

●    Pedestal pumps, on the other hand, are mounted above the sump pit. While they are generally less expensive and easier to maintain, they can be louder and may not handle large amounts of water as effectively as submersible models.

2. Power source

Sump pumps can be powered in various ways, including electricity and battery backup systems. While electric pumps are common, it’s crucial to consider what happens during power outages. A battery backup system ensures that your sump pump continues to operate even when the electricity goes out, providing peace of mind during storms.

3. Horsepower

The horsepower rating of a sump pump determines its pumping capacity. Typically, pumps range from 1/4 to 1 horsepower. A higher horsepower rating indicates a more powerful pump, capable of moving larger volumes of water. However, the right horsepower for your home will depend on the specific conditions of your basement and the amount of water you expect to manage.

4. Automatic vs. Manual Operation

Many modern sump pumps come with automatic operation features. These pumps have float switches that activate the pump when water reaches a certain level. This automatic operation can provide convenience and ensure that the pump works when needed without manual intervention.

Maintenance considerations

Even the best sump pump requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Here are a few tips to keep your sump pump in top shape:

●    Regular Testing: Test your sump pump every few months to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Pour water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and removes the water efficiently.

●    Clean the Pit: Remove debris and sediment from the sump pit to prevent clogs. A clean pit helps the pump operate more effectively.

●    Check the Discharge Pipe: Ensure that the discharge pipe is clear and directs water away from your foundation. Blocked pipes can lead to water backup and reduced efficiency.

Top brands and models

While this article refrains from promoting specific products, it is worth mentioning that several reputable brands have earned a strong reputation for quality and reliability in the sump pump market. Researching models from brands like Zoeller, Wayne, and Basement Watchdog can provide a solid starting point in your search for the best sump pump.

1...134135136...1,012Page 135 of 1,012