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Drink driver jailed for causing head-on crash that seriously injured two women on Ravenshead road

A man who was was more than three times over the drink-drive limit when he crashed into an oncoming car in Ravenshead and seriously injured two young women has been jailed.

A drink-driver who caused a head-on crash on a country road has been jailed.

Officers from Nottinghamshire Police’s Roads Policing Unit were alerted to an incident in Main Road, Ravenshead, around 6.15pm on 17 May 2023.

Reaching the scene soon after, the team found two cars had been involved in a collision, with debris scattered across the road and significant damage to both vehicles.

PICTURED: The scene of the crash in Ravenshead (PHOTO: Notts Police)

Roadside breath tests revealed one of the drivers, Richard Miller, was more than three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Miller, who was driving his Ford Galaxy in the direction of Blidworth, immediately admitted he had misjudged a bend near the junction with Robin Hood Way.

The Galaxy ended up on the wrong side of the road where it collided with a Ford Fiesta.

Two women were travelling in the Fiesta and had to be cut from the vehicle by firefighters before being taken to hospital.

One victim suffered broken ribs while the other woman was left with head and spinal injuries. Both continue to be impacted by the crash and the driver has not got behind the wheel of a car since.

Miller failed a roadside breath test, recording a sample of 110 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35 micrograms. 

The 55-year-old, of Springwood View Close, Sutton-in-Ashfield, was jailed for a total of 14 months when he appeared at Nottingham Crown Court on Wednesday (17 April).

He had earlier pleaded guilty to drink-driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Detective Inspector Kate Savage, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“This case serves as a stark reminder that those who drink and drive are never in control of their vehicle and are selfishly putting the lives of other road users at risk.

“The two victims simply happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Both suffered nasty injuries which could have been much worse. The collision has had an ongoing impact on their lives.

“Nottinghamshire Police takes offences like this very seriously and we will continue to do everything in our power to take people like Miller off our roads.

“Our work is ongoing all year round to stop drink and drug-drivers before they have the chance to cause serious harm. We will keep the pressure up and continue our work to educate and enforce wherever we can.

“If we have reason to believe you are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs we will follow you, we will pull you over, and we will ensure you are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

If you suspect someone could be driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, don’t take a chance, report it, either by calling the police on 101, or 999 if there is an immediate risk to life or property. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Vibe – your guide to what’s going on in Gedling borough (19 April – 25 April)

Here’s our latest round-up of events taking place from Friday, April 19 to Thursday, April 25 across the borough.

Friday, April 19


Friday Quiz Night – Burnt Stump Inn, 8.00pm

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Terry Woodpecker – The Nags Head, Carlton

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Catch-up Screenings: Bob Marley- One Love (12A) – Bonington Cinema, Arnold

Fri 19 – Sat 20 Apr, Various Times £6.80pp

Bob Marley: One Love celebrates the life and music of an icon who inspired generations through his message of love and unity. On the big screen for the first time, discover Bob’s powerful story of overcoming adversity and the journey behind his revolutionary music. Produced in partnership with the Marley family and starring Kingsley Ben-Adir as the legendary musician and Lashana Lynch as his wife Rita.

“Kingsley Ben-Adir is a beautifully faultless Bob Marley in One Love biopic” Metro ★★★ 

Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green
With Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch
1hr 44 mins // US 2023

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VYBZ – Top Spot, Carlton


Oscar Catch-up Screenings: Oppenheimer (15) – Extra Screenings Added – Bonington Cinema, Arnold

Fri 19 – Sat 20 Apr, Various Times £6.80pp

Written and directed by Christopher Nolan (Dunkirk, Inception, Interstellar), Oppenheimer is an IMAX®-shot epic thriller that thrusts audiences into the pulse-pounding paradox of the enigmatic man who must risk destroying the world in order to save it.

“Cillian Murphy dazzles as the destroyer of worlds.” Telegraph ★★★★★

“A masterfully constructed character study from a great director operating on a whole new level.” Empire ★★★★★

Guardian ★★★★ Independent ★★★★

Nominated for 13 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Actor (Cillian Murphy) and Best Director (Christopher Nolan)

Winner of 7 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director

Directed by Christopher Nolan
With Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt
3hrs // USA 2023

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Glenny Vee – Waggon and Horses, Arnold


Aron Fender – The Major Oak, Arnold


Karaoke Night – Willowbrook, Gedling Village


Saturday, April 20


Marc Bolton & C J Gibson – Arnold Ex- Service Men’s Club


T J Saxon – Arnold Liberal Club, Arnold


Becky Syson – Four Bells Inn, Woodborough


Wayne Corr – The Gleaners Inn, Calverton


Byron’s Bash – Newstead Abbey

Come dressed as Byron to join in the weekend anniversary activities through the historic house and gardens inspired by Byron’s activity here.


Dan Knights – Top Spot, Carlton

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Wood’s Motor Club Social Meet – Nags Head Car Park, Woodborough

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Josh Kemp – Admiral Rodney, Calverton

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Stardiz – Calverton Working Men’s Club, Calverton


Sunday, April 21


Sunday Sessions: Ashley Westlake – The Pit, Newstead

These gigs will be free as always but this year we will be passing a bucket around so please remember to bring a couple of quid in cash for the artists.

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Artists Makers & Fine Food Market – Patchings Art Centre, Calverton

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The History of Arnot Hill Park by Bob Massey – Arnot Hill Park, Arnold


Andy Marlow – Top Spot, Carlton

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Sunday Quiz Night – Larch Farm, Ravenshead, 9.00pm

Wednesday & Sunday evenings

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Monday, April 22


Monday Quiz Night – The Arrow, Arnold, 7.30pm

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Pub League Poker – The Brick Yard, Carlton

Free pint to the winner of the night for season 2, along with the cash pot from player buy ins (£5 a head) and 100 points on the leaderboard.

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Monday Quiz Night – The Bread & Bitter, Mapperley

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Monday Quiz Night – Four Bells, Woodborough, 7.30pm

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Tuesday, April 23


Bake Off – The Beacon Hill, Carlton

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Pub Quiz – The Brickyard, Carlton

Booking advised due to popularity of event.

£2 buy in per person, £25 bar tab to be won and a rolling higher or lower jackpot

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Bike Night – The Gleaners, Calverton

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Wednesday, April 24


Bonington Players… Home, I’m Darling – Bonington Theatre, Arnold

Wed 24 – Sat 27 Apr, 7:30pm £9.00pp

The Bonington Players are pleased to announce that, following sold-out seasons at the National Theatre and in the West End, and a national tour, we are proud to bring Laura Wade’s Olivier Award-winning comedy to the Bonington Theatre.

How happily married are the happily married?

Every couple needs a little fantasy to keep their marriage sparkling. But behind the gingham curtains, things start to unravel, and being a domestic goddess is not as easy as it seems!

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Wednesday Quiz Night – The Nags Head, Carlton, 8.30pm

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Wednesday Quiz Night – Robin Hood & Little John, Arnold, 8.30pm

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Thursday, April 25


Boogie Night Thursdays – The Longbow, Arnold, 6.00pm – 9.30pm

Creating a safe and fun environment for adults with learning difficulties to socialise and dance the night away.

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Thursday Quiz Night – The Gleaners, Calverton, 8.30pm


Louis Stephens – Top Spot, Carlton

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Quiz Night – Sashas Bar, Arnold

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Thursday Quiz Night – The Vale Hotel, Woodthorpe, 8.00pm

Weekly quiz night in support of local food bank.

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Knitting, Education & Fun by Bob Massey – Market Place Tea Rooms, Arnold


Thursday Quiz Night – Copper Mapperley, 7.00pm


Thursday Quiz Night – Gedling Inn, Gedling, 8.00pm

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All listings correct at time of going to press

Please contact venue to confirm availability and details


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Elevate Your Professional Presence: Essential Tips for Masterful Presentations

Mastering the art of presentation can significantly elevate your professional presence, allowing you to communicate ideas clearly and persuade audiences effectively. Success in this skill set enhances career prospects, strengthens professional relationships, and can lead to more opportunities for influence and leadership. This article provides essential tips and practical advice for delivering presentations that not only inform but also inspire and engage. We will delve into understanding your audience, structuring your presentation effectively, and other key aspects that contribute to compelling communication.

Understanding Your Audience: Tailoring Your Message for Maximum Impact

Successful presenters excel not just because of their eloquence or the depth of their knowledge, but because they finely tune their message to resonate with their audience. Start by researching who will be in your audience. What are their interests, professional backgrounds, and levels of expertise? What might they be hoping to gain from your presentation? This insight allows you to craft a message that speaks directly to their needs and expectations. Use language that aligns with their professional levels, incorporate examples that are relatable to them, and adjust your delivery style to maintain engagement. By focusing on the audience’s perspective, you ensure that your presentation is relevant and compelling, making it more likely that your listeners will leave with a lasting positive impression.

Structuring Your Presentation: Key Elements of a Compelling Narrative

A well-structured presentation is akin to a well-written story. It needs a clear beginning, middle, and end, with each part flowing logically into the next. Begin with a strong introduction that outlines the topics you will cover and what the audience can gain from listening to you. This sets the expectation and captures interest right from the start. The body of your presentation should be divided into manageable segments, each focusing on a key point supported by facts, figures, and real-life examples to enhance credibility and retention. Conclude with a powerful summary that reinforces the main points, and if applicable, a call to action. This structure not only helps in maintaining the clarity of your message but also aids in keeping the audience engaged throughout your presentation.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Learning from Each Speaking Opportunity

Effective presenters understand that every speaking opportunity is a chance for growth. Incorporating feedback is crucial for continuous improvement in your presentation skills. After each session, seek out opinions from peers, mentors, and audience members. Specific questions about clarity, engagement, and the usefulness of the content can provide invaluable insights. Presentation training often emphasises the importance of acting on this feedback to refine your techniques. Additionally, consider recording your presentations to self-review your performance. This can reveal habits that need adjustment, such as overuse of filler words or ineffective pacing. Regularly updating your skills through structured bespoke presentation training can also provide new techniques and perspectives, keeping your approach fresh and effective.

Designing Engaging Visual Aids: Tips for Effective Slide Creation

Visual aids can dramatically enhance the impact of your presentation, but only if they are well designed. Start by ensuring that each slide is focused on a single main idea. This clarity prevents confusion and keeps your audience’s attention directed where you want it. Use high-quality images and graphics that reinforce your message; these are more effective than dense text in capturing and maintaining viewer interest. Keep the design clean and consistent with a professional colour scheme and standardised fonts. Tools and software are an integral part of presentation skills training, where you learn to utilise features that enhance the visual appeal without distracting from the main message.

Mastering Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication: The Pillars of Persuasion

Effective communication in presentations extends beyond the words you choose to the manner in which you deliver them. Verbal skills involve not only clear articulation but also the use of a dynamic tone to emphasise key points and keep the audience engaged. Varying your pitch and pace can help maintain interest and convey enthusiasm for the subject matter. Non-verbal communication, on the other hand, can subtly underscore or undermine your spoken message. Eye contact, posture, and gestures all play critical roles in conveying confidence and credibility. Presentation skills training workshops often highlight the power of non-verbal cues in engaging an audience, teaching techniques to control body language and use it to your advantage. By mastering both verbal and non-verbal skills, you can deliver your message more effectively, ensuring it resonates with and influences your audience.

Engagement Techniques: Keeping Your Audience Interested and Active

Maintaining audience engagement throughout a presentation is crucial for effective communication. One key technique is to involve the audience directly. This can be through interactive elements such as Q&A sessions, live polls, or small group discussions. These interactions not only make the audience feel part of the presentation but also provide immediate feedback on their level of understanding and interest. Another effective strategy is the use of storytelling, where real-world scenarios or anecdotes are woven into the presentation to illustrate points vividly and memorably. Advanced presentation skills training often includes methods for crafting stories that connect emotionally with the audience, making the content more relatable and impactful. By employing these techniques, you can ensure that your presentation remains compelling from start to finish, leading to greater engagement and retention of information.

How Community Groups Can Enhance Mobility with Affordable Solutions

Mobility is a critical component of community life. It enables access to essential services, supports social interaction, and fosters a sense of belonging. However, for many community groups, especially in smaller or under-resourced areas, providing adequate transportation can be a challenge.

This must-have guide explores an array of practical, affordable solutions that can help enhance mobility for community groups, helping everyone from local youth clubs to senior clubs get where they need to go without breaking the bank.

Assessing the Need

The first step in enhancing mobility for community groups is to assess the specific needs of the group. This might involve understanding the number of people who require transportation, their typical destinations, and the frequency of travel.

For instance, a senior centre might need regular weekly transport to local supermarkets and monthly outings to cultural events, while a youth sports team may require transport to other towns for weekend matches.

Carpooling and Ride-Sharing

One of the most straightforward and cost-effective solutions is to organise a carpooling or ride-sharing system. This can be as simple as setting up a WhatsApp group or a shared online calendar where community members can volunteer to drive others.

Not only does this reduce transportation costs, but it also promotes a sense of community as members interact and help each other.

Leveraging Local Business Sponsorships

Another effective strategy is to partner with local businesses for transportation support. Businesses can sponsor a vehicle or contribute towards fuel costs in exchange for advertising opportunities, such as logos on a minibus. This can be a win-win situation; community groups gain mobility, and businesses receive local brand exposure.

Community Minibuses

Purchasing or leasing a community minibus is another excellent option. While this may require initial capital, the long-term benefits can be substantial. Minibuses can be used for various group activities, providing reliable transportation that’s always on hand when needed.

For groups looking to make this investment more affordable, considering a used minibus can be a smart move. Outlets like The Minibus Centre offer a range of used vehicles that can fit tight budgets without compromising on quality or safety.

Government and Non-Profit Grants

There are often government and non-profit grants available specifically aimed at improving community transport. These grants can be used to fund the purchase of a vehicle, subsidise operational costs, or even support the establishment of a transportation program.

It’s worth dedicating time to research and apply for these grants, as they can cover substantial costs and significantly enhance a group’s operational capabilities.

Volunteer Drivers

Utilising volunteer drivers is another economical way to manage community transportation. Volunteers can use their vehicles or drive community-owned vehicles.

It’s important, however, to ensure that all volunteer drivers are properly vetted and insured, and that their vehicles are safe and well-maintained. Offering to cover fuel costs can also be a good incentive for volunteers and can help expand the pool of available drivers.

Scheduled Service Days

Implementing scheduled service days is a strategic approach that can greatly optimise both costs and efficiency for community groups requiring transportation.

 Establishing set days for transport — such as Tuesdays and Thursdays for grocery shopping, medical appointments, or other errands, and Saturdays reserved for community gatherings or leisure outings — ensures that vehicles are used at full capacity on those specific days.

This method not only maximises the use of the transportation resources but also allows community members to better organise their schedules, knowing exactly when transport options are available. maintenance, making transportation projects more sustainable over the long term.

Digital Solutions for Route and Schedule Optimisation

The adoption of digital tools can significantly enhance the management of community transportation.

Modern technology offers sophisticated apps and software designed to streamline route planning and scheduling. These digital solutions help in plotting the most efficient routes, minimising driving time and reducing fuel consumption. For example, GPS technology can adjust routes in real time to avoid traffic congestion and road closures, ensuring timely arrivals and departures.

What’s more, these handy tools can facilitate the coordination of multiple vehicles and destinations, optimising the entire transportation schedule to meet the community’s needs more effectively. The bottom line? Embracing these kinds of digital solutions leads to a more effective use of resources, aligning with the goals of both cost reduction and improved service delivery in community transport programs.

Education and Training

Finally, providing members with basic car maintenance and safe driving courses can help ensure that vehicles last longer, and trips are safe. This education can also empower more community members to become drivers, increasing the flexibility and availability of transportation options.

Improving mobility doesn’t require massive budgets or cutting-edge technology. Instead, it’s about making smart, sustainable choices leveraging community resources and fostering collaboration.

Whether it’s through utilising existing vehicles more efficiently, harnessing the power of technology, or tapping into local networks for support, there are numerous ways to enhance transportation in a cost-effective manner.

With a little creativity and community spirit, mobility can be significantly improved, enriching the lives of all community members, and ensuring that transportation barriers do not hinder the vibrant community life.

Gedling borough weather Friday, April 19

The Met Office forecast a chilly day ahead for Gedling borough residents, especially in the northerly wind. Early cloud breaking to allow some brighter spells, but also a few sharp showers, these easing later in the day. Maximum temperature 13 °C.

Tonight will see any lingering showers soon dying out, with long clear spells developing. Strong winds gradually easing. Becoming chilly, especially in the west, where a ground frost is possible. Minimum temperature 1 °C.

It is expected to be dry on Saturday, with sunny spells for most. Perhaps a little more cloudy later in the day. Winds mostly light, but with temperatures below average. Maximum temperature 12 °C.

Independent review planned after concerns are raised about lack of ethnic minority representation on Gedling Borough Council

Gedling Borough Council is commissioning an independent review of the lack of ethnic minority representation among its elected members and officer workforce.

Concerns were voiced by resident Auvil Graham to the leader of the Labour-run council, Cllr John Clarke, and deputy leader Cllr Michael Payne.

Mr Graham spoke at a Full Council meeting on the evening of Wednesday, April 17, to say he was “disappointed” with the council’s written response to an email he’d sent to the two councillors.

He said: “In my original email I noted of nearly 50 councillors, officers, and members of the public in attendance at the Full Council meeting of January 2024, apart from myself there was only one other person from a visible ethnic minority.

Concerns were voiced by resident Auvil Graham to the leader of the Labour-run council, Cllr John Clarke, pictured right, and deputy leader Cllr Michael Payne, left

“Given the deputy leader’s response to a constituent’s question at that meeting in which he said the council takes its responsibility for equality and diversity seriously and that all protected characteristics are equally important, I question the validity of that statement.”

Mr Graham said according to the latest equality monitoring data from 2021 only 4.4 per cent of the council’s employees were from visible minorities, against a population of about 10 per cent.

“I had asked that given the councils stated commitment to equality I would be very grateful to know how GBC intends to make the council more representative ethnically of the public it serves, and efforts to engage the council’s minority ethnic population in all activities including local democracy,” he added.

“The reply from the leader and deputy leader does not, unfortunately, answer my question. Indeed, it does not specifically address under-representation of minority ethnic people at all. I would be grateful for a clear answer.

“How does GBC intend to make the council more representative ethnically of the public it serves and engage the council’s minority ethnic population in all activities, including local democracy?”

Deputy leader Cllr Payne said he shared Mr Graham’s concerns on the need for greater progress on improving the representation of ethnic minorities within the council’s workforce and among elected representatives.

He said while work is being done, including advertising jobs to 40 different individuals and community groups working with potentially unrepresented applicants, and training managers in unconscious bias and equality, more work is yet needed.

“The truth is too many individuals from black and minority groups still face discrimination and disadvantage both in getting into and progressing at work,” he said.

“People of all ethnicities and backgrounds should have equality of access, treatment and outcomes throughout their employee life cycle, from getting a job to accessing training and receiving a promotion.

“The council has made progress in tackling some of these challenges. But let me be crystal clear on the public record there is always more to do.

“I have therefore, Mr Graham, asked the council’s strategic, equalities and diversity group and our senior management team, led by our chief executive, to commission an independent review of the council’s recruitment and retention procedures, policies and culture, with a specific focus on the issue of the council’s staff being representative of the community it serves, including representation of ethnic minorities in our workforce.”

Cllr Payne said it would draw on findings from other reviews, including the 2017 review by Baroness McGregor-Smith, which considered the issues affecting black and minority ethnic (BME) groups in the workplace.

“From a personal perspective I will continue to do everything I can within my power to support people from ethnic minorities who wish to stand for public office, both at a local and national level as I have done for the last 10 years,” Cllr Payne added.

The Influence of Maltese and Anjouan Licenses on the Global iGaming Markets

Two major countries, Anjouan and Malta, have grown into formidable licensing choices for iGaming firms in the dynamic online gaming industry. Having Malta and Anjouan gaming licenses offers up potential foreign markets. IGaming firms may enhance income and customers by taking use of Anjouan’s popularity and Malta’s reputation.

Malta Is a Top Online Gambling Destination

Malta, a Mediterranean island, has long hosted internet gambling. Over 26.2 million gaming accounts and 10% of online gaming businesses were there in 2023. This made Malta online gaming license safe and easy to keep an eye on. 

Malta was a pioneer in EU internet gaming regulation. It keeps its gaming laws up to date all the time to protect users, stop money laundering, and follow EU rules. Bill 55, which shields license holders from judgments rendered by foreign courts, and the Gaming Act of 2018 have both contributed to Malta’s growing reputation as a trustworthy licensing country.

Malta License Benefits: The Essentials

  • Malta’s Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is known for player safety and strict oversight, so operators and players may trust it.
  • Malta’s regulatory system balances strictness and flexibility. It allows operators to innovate while maintaining company integrity.
  • Malta has a favorable tax environment, and its extensive tax imputation structure lets gaming enterprises pay as little as 5% effective taxes.
  • Multilingual and skilled workers populate the nation. It simplifies hiring online gamers.
  • Malta offers data centers and telecom services. Gambling enterprises need it.

The Growing Popularity of Anjouan

The small island of Anjouan in the Comoros archipelago is becoming a favorite license destination because of its low rates and simple licensing process. Operators seeking rapid growth may find this jurisdiction intriguing owing to its various perks.

  1. The Anjouan Gaming License is leading the iGaming industry because of its benefits for operators.
  2. Anjouan is known for cheap licensing. This jurisdiction offers cheaper license fees than many others. So it makes it a good choice for new enterprises.
  3. Simplified Application: Anjouan’s licensing process is quick. Operators may reduce downtime and speed up their iGaming market entry by starting operations sooner.
  4. Your Anjouan license may help you access new African, Latin American, Asian, and other markets. These industries are growing and may have less rivalry than established enterprises.
  5. Anjouan allows businesses to adapt to market needs and changes.
  6. Anjouan’s tax framework makes iGaming businesses more financially viable.

Anjouan license boosts integrity and production. Anjouan’s agility and cost allow you to go into growing markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. it is a great solution to start and test, while Maltese license is for further steps and reputation boost. 

Sum up

As iGaming increases, selecting the correct license is vital for worldwide development. Malta has a stellar reputation and European market access. An Anjouan license fits for start-ups and opens various foreign markets, providing a strategic edge. 

Contact InteliumLaw for advice on the best solution for your business licensing with Malta or Anjouan license.

Nottingham City Transport statement as bus stop screens show ‘confusing’ information

Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has apologised over inaccurate information being shown on information screens at bus stops across the borough.

The bus firm said the accuracy and reliability of the information on the electronic bus stop displays had been ‘deteriorating’ over recent months.

In a statement NCT said that many of the screens are now showing inaccurate bus arrival predictions, missing out services and the scheduled time of the bus going missing when the time is reached, regardless of whether it has arrived.

Bus stop electronic displays have been showing inaccurate information

The bus operator said: “Providing predicted information to the bus stop displays is a partnership between local bus operators and the local councils, which has worked very well for many years. Bus operators send their tracking data and predictions to the local councils, who then install and maintain the displays and facilitate the information shown on them.

“The technology behind the system was coming to the end of its life, and a new system has been procured recently by Nottingham City Council to ensure information can be provided long in to the future. Unfortunately there have been problems in the transition to the new system which is resulting in the unreliable information currently on the displays, and we understand from the Council that the new supplier is working tirelessly in an effort to resolve the situation.

NCT said the problems affecting the bus stop displays do not affect the information shown on their website or NCTX Buses app, where predictions come directly from NCT and do not travel through a number of third party systems to reach the bus stop displays.

The spokesman added: “NCT shares your frustration with the poor situation with the bus stop displays and continues to have several conversations each week with Nottingham City Council about resolving it and returning the information on the bus stop displays to the high levels of accuracy previously enjoyed.

“Until then, we encourage you to download the free NCTX Buses app or use our website for accurate predicted information and thank you for your patience.”

Gedling property manager risks arrest while taking part in Defend our Juries court protest in Notts tomorrow

A property manager from Gedling is running the risk of arrest by protesting outside a crown court over juries’ rights.

Amanda Pumo will be taking her place outside Nottingham Crown Court tomorrow (19) from 8.45am during a week of action by members of the Defend our Juries campaign.

They are part of the Defend Our Juries movement who are holding protests outside every single court in England and Wales.

This week was chosen because Trudi Warner, the first protester to hold a protest outside the Old Bailey will be in court facing a prison sentence for her action.  

Nottingham_Crown_Court
Protests are taking place outside Nottingham Crown Court tomorrow (19)

The signs held by local citizens – and by Trudi Warner – point out an ancient British law: the right of juries to reach their own conclusions based solely on the evidence presented, and independent of a judge’s directions. 

This law was created in 1670 when jurors refused to convict Quaker activists of unlawful assembly, despite the judge sending them to jail for ignoring his directions. The jurors appealed, won, and this law has protected the independence of juries ever since. 

In a trial this February Judge Reid spoke to the jury and said “It is only on the evidence you are able to try the case and not on conscience … It is a criminal offence for a juror to do anything from which it can be concluded that a decision will be made on anything other than the evidence.” 

Amanda Pumo, 64, said “Juries are a common sense check on the law. They ensure that judges, law makers and governments can’t abuse their power and use British courtrooms to do their dirty work for them.

“I’m here to send a clear message to Judges that the public won’t stand for jurors being made a mockery of. Let our juries hear the whole truth and let them reach a fair and true verdict without judicial interference!”

Eve Cina, 68, a retired probation officer from West Bridgford said “Contrary to popular belief, juries aren’t bound to follow a judge’s directions. Instead, according to this established law, their job is to evaluate all the evidence they hear and make up their own minds depending on what they think is morally right.

“The right to a fair trial by a jury of one’s peers is a cornerstone of our legal system, and a safeguard against tyranny.”

Brooke Farm in Linby helps Pulp Friction grow RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden

Nottinghamshire County Council’s Brooke Farm in Linby, which runs an employment training programme for adults with learning disabilities, is playing a crucial role by helping to grow plants for a garden in the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024. 

Alongside their range of plants and flowers grown and sold on-site, Brooke Farm has shared space in their heated greenhouses to grow a variety of plants for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show exhibit. Plants include runner beans, marigolds, fennel, dwarf nasturtium and sweet rocket. 

Nottingham-based Pulp Friction asked for Brooke Farm’s help because the plants need a warm environment to survive at this time of year so use of their greenhouse space has ensured enough plants can be grown for the exhibit. 

The Pulp Friction ‘Growing Skills Garden’ is being entered into the All About Plants category and represents themes that are close to the heart of both organisations. Both offer skills training to adults with learning disabilities, so the project is a great opportunity for trainees to gain more gardening experience. Five trees will represent that just 5 percent of adults with a learning disability are currently in paid employment. All plants in the exhibit will be edible and grown using environment and animal friendly techniques.

Members of both organisations will work closely together over the next few weeks tending to the plants at Brooke Farm in preparation for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show which runs from 21 to 25 May. 

Councillor Matt Barney, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “I’m delighted that our trainees at Brooke Farm have the chance to work with Pulp Friction and showcase their skills by helping to create such an important and inspirational garden for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.”

Brad Jones, manager at Brooke Farm, added: “We were really excited when Pulp Friction asked us if we could help them by growing some plants for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show here at Brooke Farm. What a great opportunity for our trainees and Pulp Friction members to work together on such a special project. We can’t wait to see the finished garden.”

Pulp Friction member Elliot is also hoping to start employment training at Brooke Farm this summer, after working in the project team. Elliot said: “I’m excited to be a part of this project growing plants for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, as I love gardening and it’s a great opportunity to learn more from my new colleagues at Brooke Farm.” 

Beth Danks, lead gardener at Pulp Friction told us: “Everyone at Brooke Farm has been fantastic and so supportive. Without that support, we wouldn’t have been able to produce enough plants for our RHS Chelsea Flower Showgarden. It’s also been so nice to see members and trainees from both our teams working together.”