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Chair of new Greater Carlton Town Board appointed to support local regeneration plans

A chair has been appointed to oversee a £20 million government investment handed to the new Greater Carlton Town Board.

Sir John Peace has been appointed as the independent chair to lead the town board, which is a new initiative set to shape the future of Carlton and the surrounding areas with £20 million in endowment-style funding over the next decade.

The first meeting of the board was held on Wednesday July 10 at Carlton Le Willows Academy to discuss the next steps in delivering the long-term plan for the area.

The board has agreed to launch a consultation, which opens today (15) , to ask residents for their views on how the money will be spent.

Sir John Peace has been appointed as the independent chair to lead the town board

The consultation will be hosted by Gedling Borough Council at www.gedling.gov.uk/carlton-town-board and will be open until the end of August.

In March, Greater Carlton, including Carlton Hill, Netherfield, Gedling, Colwick, Burton Joyce, Stoke Bardolph, Mapperley and Mapperley Top, were selected to receive Long-Term Plan for Town funding from the government.

The Independent Chair will play a crucial role in leading the Greater Carlton Town Board, bringing together diverse interests and facilitating consensus to develop a comprehensive 10-year vision for Greater Carlton.

Following an advertisement for expressions of interest and subsequent assessment of applications, Sir John Peace was appointed as Chair. Sir John Peace has a long and distinguished business career at the highest levels covering the technology, financial services, and retail sectors. He was formerly Chairman, Chief Executive, and Founder of Experian plc; Chief Executive of GUS plc; Chairman of Standard Chartered plc; and Chairman of Burberry plc—all FTSE 100 companies.

Other board members have also been appointed, including the local MP for Gedling, Michael Payne, the Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, Nottinghamshire County Councillor Keith Girling as well as local business leaders and community representatives.

Sir John Peace, Independent Chair of the Greater Carlton Town Board, said: “I am very pleased to have been appointed as the interim Chair of the Greater Carlton Town Board. We have an opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of people living in Carlton and the surrounding areas with this funding.

“I am looking forward to hearing from residents about their ideas for the area. I will make sure that the board is fully focused on the needs of the local community, and we will put together a plan that is led by the community that will create growth in the area. I very much look forward to the opportunities that will arise from this project.”

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We are incredibly pleased that Sir John Peace has agreed to chair this important board. He has a great track record of success in business, he knows the area well, and like us, he cares about the residents and businesses in Carlton and the surrounding areas.

“We will now start the hard work of creating a real plan that will be community-led. It will be their voices that decide where this money goes, and I am very excited about the possibilities that this project will bring. We have been desperate for investment in these areas, so it’s now time for us to get on with the task of improving the Greater Carlton area.”

To take part in the consultation and have a chance to win £50, visit www.gedling.gov.uk/carlton-town-board .

Hapless shoplifter triggered shop alarm as police officer arrived at Daybrook store

A shoplifter was left cursing his luck after activating a supermarket alarm at the same time a police officer arrived at the store entrance.

Thomas Howitt walked out of Tesco Express, in Oxclose Lane, Daybrook, with £55.40 worth of steaks hidden in his coat.

The theft activated the store alarm just as PC Harry Ford – a response officer based at a nearby police station – turned up at the shop.

Howitt continued walking away but was stopped by PC Ford. Howitt then threw the steaks to the ground and ran off. However he was too slow for PC Ford who managed to detain him moments later and place him in handcuffs.

The incident happened at approximately 12.45pm on Saturday 6 July.

Howitt, aged 26, of no fixed address, was charged with theft and put before the courts.

He pleaded guilty at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday 8 July, with magistrates hearing he was wanted on a recall to prison at the time of the theft.

The court heard he had 17 previous convictions for 93 offences – including 70 thefts – and that he had continued to show a “flagrant disregard” for the law following his release from prison earlier this year.

As a result, the magistrates jailed him for nine weeks.

PC Harry Ford said the arrest demonstrated Nottinghamshire Police’s commitment to tackling and reducing shop theft, as well as taking action against repeat offenders. He said:

“Howitt is a prolific shoplifter who continued to target local stores and breach his licence conditions.

“His brazen and persistent offending has had a considerable impact on local businesses, so I am pleased we have now been able to give them some respite by removing Howitt from our streets.

“I hope this arrest reassures our local businesses, their customers and members of the public that we are treating this type of offending seriously and we will do everything we can to protect them from harm and bring offenders to justice.”

EMR say thousands of bargain £7.70 train tickets still available to Skegness from Notts

East Midlands Railway (EMR) is urging customers to book in advance and secure a summer Skegness bargain this year.

The train operator still has around 3,500 Advance Single tickets priced at only £7.70 and customers are being urged to book as early as possible as this will help them get the best price and availability.

Holiday-makers can book up to 12 weeks in advance and, by doing this, they will be able to select the train they wish to travel on and book the return journey at the same time. There isn’t an option to book a specific seat, but it will guarantee customers a place on the train of their choice and a place in the priority boarding queue.

Customers are also reminded that children under five can travel for free when accompanied by a fare-paying parent or guardian.

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Service Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We are delighted to offer these cut-price advance tickets to Skegness this summer.

“By booking early, our customers can secure the best deals and ensure they have a guaranteed spot on their chosen train. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and enjoy a lovely trip to the beach.

“Remember, children under five travel for free with a fare-paying adult, making it an even more affordable family outing.”

Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis issues warning as data shows celebrity profiles most used in scams

Financial expert and journalist Martin Lewis has once again been named the most frequently misused celebrity in scam advertisements.

Lewis again topped the list put together following a comprehensive analysis by his MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) website.

The study, which examined Action Fraud data from 2022 and 2023, highlights the pervasive use of high-profile figures in fraudulent schemes, underscoring the need for consumer vigilance.

The analysis by MSE, which is owned by Ewloe-based Moneysupermarket.com, revealed that public figures from various sectors, including entertainment, business, politics, and royalty, have had their identities exploited by scammers.

Leading the list is Martin Lewis with 1,151 mentions, accounting for 32.4% of the total scams reported. Following him are Taylor Swift with 771 mentions (21.7%) and Elon Musk with 492 mentions (13.9%).

  1. Martin Lewis – 1,151 mentions (32.4%)
  2. Taylor Swift – 771 mentions (21.7%)
  3. Elon Musk – 492 mentions (13.9%)
  4. Adele – 97 mentions (2.7%)
  5. Holly Willoughby – 80 mentions (2.3%)
  6. Jeremy Clarkson – 72 mentions (2.0%)
  7. Mark Zuckerberg – 53 mentions (1.5%)
  8. Johnny Depp – 41 mentions (1.2%)
  9. Keanu Reeves – 41 mentions (1.2%)
  10. Ed Sheeran – 40 mentions (1.1%)
  11. King Charles – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  12. Peter Jones – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  13. Phillip Schofield – 32 mentions (0.9%)
  14. Richard Branson – 29 mentions (0.8%)
  15. Rishi Sunak – 28 mentions (0.8%)
  16. Rod Stewart – 26 mentions (0.7%)
  17. Prince Harry – 23 mentions (0.6%)
  18. Simon Cowell – 23 mentions (0.6%)
  19. Lewis Capaldi – 21 mentions (0.6%)
  20. James Martin – 20 mentions (0.6%)

Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, said he was ‘frustrated’ over the continued misuse of his image in scam ads.

“It’s likely that the criminals pumping out these scam ads effectively use their own in-house dark-web digital marketing teams, researching which celebrities and advert types get the best click-through rates, and honing the way they work to attract more victims,” Lewis said.

Lewis emphasised that consumers should be particularly wary of ads featuring the top 20 celebrities identified in the study.

“If it’s an ad with me in it, it’s always a scam, as I don’t do adverts.

Topping this list is about the worst compliment I’ve ever had,” he remarked.

He also highlighted the persistent nature of these scams and the importance of verifying any online advertisement, especially those featuring well-known figures.

Types of Scams

The report indicates that scam ads often involve promises of quick wealth through investments or cryptocurrency, with public figures like Elon Musk and Jeremy Clarkson frequently featured. Other scams include ticket fraud for popular concerts and events, particularly affecting fans of musicians like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.

Financial Impact

The financial impact of these scams is significant. Action Fraud data shows that victims have reported losing over £20 million to scams using Martin Lewis’s profile in the last two years, with the largest individual reported loss being £500,000.

Fans of Taylor Swift have reportedly lost an estimated £1 million since UK tickets for her tour went on sale last July, according to data from Lloyds Bank.

Preventive Measures

Lewis and MSE advise consumers to remain cautious and verify the legitimacy of any online advertisement, especially those involving celebrities.

Key red flags include mentions of cryptocurrency, investment opportunities, and too-good-to-be-true offers.

If you suspect a scam, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud or relevant authorities.

For more detailed information on how to protect yourself from scams, visit MoneySavingExpert.com’s comprehensive guide on stopping scams and stay informed through trusted sources.

[Photo: MoneySavingExpert.com]

Latest planning applications put before Gedling Borough Council

These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council this week.

The round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers validated and published in a quiet week (w/e 28/6/24) include a proposal for a HMO in Woodthorpe. These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.

More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE.

Two storey side and single storey rear extension
10 Vernon Crescent Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0438

Conifer – remove to ground level
9 Main Street Papplewick
Ref. No: 2024/0442TCA

Installation of an Air Source Heat Pump
44 Birkland Avenue Woodthorpe
Ref. No: 2024/0439

Front and rear extensions and render property
4 Birchwood Drive Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0435

Trim 4 conifers in front garden from 15ft down to about 10ft, and trim them all round
22 Main Street Woodborough
Ref. No: 2024/0430TCA

Change of use from Class E, ( Dance Studio) to C3 self contained, two bedroom apartment
376 First Floor Carlton Hill Carlton
Ref. No: 2024/0431

Two storey side extension and new materials to rear single storey.
163 Kenrick Road Mapperley
Ref. No: 2024/0425

Single storey front and rear extensions
11 Chapel Fields Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2024/0421

Increase roof height and loft extension
32 Hillview Road Carlton
Ref. No: 2024/0389

Felling of 2 Oak and 4 Silver Birch trees situated at location number “6” on the Block Plan.
Sherwood Glade Mansfield Road Arnold
Ref. No: 2024/0380TPO

Single storey rear extension
271 Moor Road Papplewick
Ref. No: 2023/0715

Council reveals plans for new state-of-the-art leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton.

Gedling Borough Council has unveiled plans for two new and improved leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton that could save £1.2 million a year.

The council recently conducted a strategic leisure review of its community facilities including its five leisure centres, its playing pitches and parks and open spaces.

A report is now recommending further feasibility work for a new Carlton Leisure and Community Wellbeing Centre as part of a strategic review of its community facilities.

The report, which will be presented to Cabinet members on Wednesday, July 17, seeks to enhance the council’s current leisure offer through new sites while ensuring longer-term financial sustainability.  

Changes would be subject to the council getting funding.

It proposes developing a business case for new, state-of-the-art facilities in Carlton, which will significantly benefit the local community by providing improved health, fitness, and cultural amenities.

The report also highlights a review to improve and enhance leisure facilities for the Arnold area with a new facility offering a swimming pool, gym, and studios, alongside a separate venue for the Bonington Theatre to increase its visibility.

A vision for these new facilities is at the core of the recently announced plans for Ambition Arnold, which is looking at how the town centre could be improved. 

The report suggests that the creation of the new leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton could save the council in the region of £1.2million per year in ongoing costs. 

The Cabinet have agreed to approve a budget of £500,000 to develop a feasibility study for a new Carlton Leisure Centre and Community Wellbeing Centre. They also agreed to create a project board and team to develop the plans for the new centres.

A consultation on all the proposals will be conducted and residents and local businesses will be able to have their say on any plans going forward. 

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We are very excited to announce plans to look into creating new and improved leisure centres in Arnold and Carlton.

“We have conducted one of the most comprehensive reviews of our leisure services for years and the findings are clear that we need some new state-of-the-art centres that will meet the needs of our growing community.

We want to be clear that this means business as usual, we are looking at the feasibility of these new centres being created, which would all be subject to getting the appropriate funding.

“I am sure that residents in Carlton and Arnold will be delighted to see the council’s ambitious vision for enhancing community wellbeing and the financial sustainability of its services to support that.” 

Why buying from used car dealers is a smart choice

Choosing to buy a used car might not be as exciting as the mere idea of walking into a car showroom and throwing down a briefcase full of cash in exchange for a shiny brand-new motor – but honestly, don’t try this, it will raise all sorts of money-laundering questions, and will end up taking you much longer to drive away with your car! But buying a used car comes with its own benefits, and the very few drawbacks can usually be mitigated by choosing to get your preloved car from a reputable used car dealer. Let’s have a look.

More Choice

Opting for a second-hand car opens up a wide range of choices for you. Even if you are looking to buy a fairly new car – say less than three years old – this means that rather than just the latest vehicles, released in time to nab one of the latest registration plates, you will be able to choose between three to six times as many models of vehicle. This can often mean that you get to choose much more precisely in line with your personal tastes as regards colour of the car, which variation on a particular make and model you like, and so on. Some of these differences can be quite subtle, but others can be more significant and make a great deal of difference to how much you like your new-to-you car.

Better for Your Budget

Used cars are better for your budget. As well as having the bigger range of cars to choose from, as detailed above, you can also often choose to include more optional extras, using up some of the money saved on the price of a new car to add those heated seats, the fancier radio-satnav system, and the alloy wheels, for example. Used car dealers can also offer excellent prices because they rely on selling a lot of second-hand cars for a modest profit, rather than one or two cars for the highest possible mark-up. If you’re interested in getting a used car, explore KAP Motor Group (Used Car dealers) website and see what they can do for you and your allocated car budget.

It’s Safer

And if you are worried about being taken advantage of, you can rest assured that used car dealers perform all the due diligence checks on the vehicles they sell, ensuring that the original owner is the one selling it, and making sure that the car is fully serviced, checked and guaranteed. And that is a firm guarantee in many cases, covering you against breakdowns and parts failures for up to a year after you’ve bought the car. (Do check your paperwork and make sure you know what you’re getting before you sign for the purchase!)

Man threatened with knife during ‘frightening’ cycle path robberies near Bestwood Village

Detectives investigating a robbery and an attempted robbery on a cycle path near Bestwood Village are appealing for information.

The first victim was riding his bicycle along Cycle Route Six, between Top Valley and Rise Park, when he was confronted by a group of three offenders who blocked his path.

They threatened the victim and grabbed his bike, close to where the cycle path crosses Moor Road, Bestwood Village, around 8.50pm on June 25 2024.

When a witness to the incident intervened, this second victim was threatened with a knife.

The man, aged in his 20s, suffered a minor injury during the altercation. His mobile phone was damaged and his prescription sunglasses are missing.

The three offenders then fled from the scene with the bicycle.

Detective Constable Francesca Brandreth, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a frightening series of events for the two victims and we are determined to get justice for them.

“We understand the impact of street robberies like this can go beyond physical harm and have a deep, emotional effect on victims.

“I would urge anyone with any information to get in touch. If you use this cycle path or nearby roads, please think if you noticed anything on the evening in question.

“Likewise if you have any footage which could help with our inquiries, please contact us.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 738 of 25 June 2024, or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Arnold crash: Family tribute paid to motorcyclist

The family of the motorcyclist who died following a collision in Arnold have paid tribute to him.

They described Vincent Kerry, known as Vinny, as a loving father, son and friend to many.

The 41-year-old was fatally injured in Calverton Road, Arnold, shortly before 7pm on Monday (8).

His mum Bernadette paid tribute to her son and thanked members of the local community for the kindness and support they have shown over the last few days.

She said: “Vinny was a loving son, father and friend to many people in the local community.

“We are devastated by his sudden loss and would like to thank everybody for their well wishes and support at this awful time.

“As we try and come to terms with what’s happened to Vinny, we respectfully ask that we are now left to grieve in private.”

Carlton burglary suspect was caught thanks to a high-tech fan taken during West Bridgford burglary

A burglary suspect from Carlton was tracked down by police thanks to a high-tech electric fan stolen during a break-in.

The fan, pictured, above, was taken during a high-value burglary in Albert Road, West Bridgford, on August 19, 2021, when two men broke in and took designer clothing and electrical items.

The victims were on holiday when Liam Mulvaney drove his works van to and from the property in the early hours of the morning.

He was later linked to the fan when an associate of his connected it to the internet and used a personal email address to link it to a mobile phone app.

Mulvaney, who was already known to the police, was also linked to the crime by traffic data and CCTV footage of his vehicle.

The 43-year-old, of Honeywood Drive, Carlton, initially denied being involved but last year pleaded guilty to burglary on the basis that he at no point entered the property and acted solely as a driver.

Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday he was given a 15-month jail sentence suspended for two years.

He was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

The court had earlier heard form Mulvaney’s defence counsel, who stressed that her client had made strenuous efforts to turn his life around and had not committed any more offences since his arrest.

Detective Constable Ryan Coupe, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“When we arrive at the scene of a burglary, we immediately look for things the offenders have left behind – like fingerprints and DNA evidence.

“However, we can also gain a lot of valuable information from items that are taken away from the scene of a crime – especially those that are later connected to the internet.

“In this case it was a single electric fan, presumably used on a hot day by an associate, that led us to identify Mulvaney as a suspect.

“Using the device’s unique serial number, we were hen able to prove it had been taken from the victims’ home address and that Mulvaney was involved.

“When combined with the other evidence in this case this left him with little option but to plead guilty to an offence I know has caused a great deal of upset to his victims.”