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Council urges voluntary, community, and social enterprise groups in Gedling borough to apply for cash from Shared Prosperity Fund

Gedling Borough Council is urging community champions to apply to its Shared Prosperity Fund that helps support high street activities and community events in the borough

Local charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations serving borough residents are invited to apply for grants of up to £5,000 to enhance community events, cultural or heritage activities, and projects aimed at increasing footfall to high streets.

Eligible projects include engaging the community in arts, heritage, or cultural events, improving existing cultural or heritage assets, and providing events or cultural activities in Gedling Borough high streets. Inclusivity and social connection initiatives targeting groups at risk of exclusion are also encouraged to apply.

Applications are open until June 30, 2024.

Successful applicants will enter into a grant agreement with the council and must spend their awards by March 31, 2025.

Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy, encourages local organisations to make the most of this opportunity: “This funding presents a significant chance for local groups to make a positive impact in Gedling Borough.

“We urge eligible organisations to apply and help us create vibrant and inclusive communities.”

To apply for funding, visit www.gedling.gov.uk and search High Street Fund to download the application form and email it to community@gedling.gov.uk by 30 June 2024. 

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

PM urges residents to have say on how £20m Towns Fund is spent on Carlton

The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has urged residents in Carlton to have their say on where £20m allocated to the town from Government funding is spent.

The £20m of funding from the Towns Fund to level-up Carlton was announced during March’s Budget.

Gedling MP Tom Randall MP has since written to Carlton residents asking for their views on what they would like to see that funding spent on.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak has urged Carlton residents to have their say on where the Towns Fund is spent

£20m has been allocated to spend on improving parts of Carlton
Gedling MP Tom Randall asked the PM for his reaction to the funding announcement at PMQs

During Prime Minister’s Questions yesterday (17), Randall addressed the PM: “I very much welcome the £20m allocated to Carlton in my Gedling constituency, as part of the Government’s Long-term Plan for Towns.

“I am very eager to see that this money is spent according to local wishes and I know there will be consultations following the setting up of the Town Board.”

He went on to ask the Prime Minister to join him in urging Carlton residents to take part in those consultations

Randall said: “Will [the Prime Minister] join me in urging Carlton residents to take part in those forthcoming consultations, to make sure their voices are heard and to ensure this money is spent where the people want?”

The Prime Minister replied: “Our Long-term Plan for Towns means that 75 towns across the country, including Carlton, will benefit from £20m each to invest in their local areas but, crucial, as he said, that will be in the hands of local people deciding on their priorities for the place that they live. 

“Whether its regenerating local high streets, investing in parks and green spaces, or tackling anti-social behaviour, we are levelling up across the country and [Tom Randall MP] deserves enormous praise for his role in securing that investment.” 

Speaking after PMQs, Tom said: “It is crucial that this investment is spent on projects that the residents of Carlton want to see delivered and that is why the Prime Minister and I encourage them to take part in upcoming consultations as well as responding to my letter with spending ideas.”

Match Report: Carlton Town 3 – 0 Ossett Utd.

NPL First Division East – 16 April 2024

Alex Howes’ second half strike and first half goals from Lamin Manneh and Nat Watson secured the points for the Millers.

Carlton were unchanged from the side that brought back three points from Newton Aycliffe last time out.  Ten days ago, Ossett were on the cusp of the relegation places following the loss to Grantham but a hard fought 1-0 victory at home to North Ferriby at the weekend, complete with a spectacular goal from top scorer Alex Peterson, had given them a bit of breathing space and increased hopes of survival.

Once more, both sides were indebted to ground staff and volunteers who had worked hard to ensure the playing surface was ok as the rains had fallen over the weekend.

Both sides had so much riding on positive outcomes and it showed as the game exploded into life from the opening blast of the referee’s whistle. Carlton nearly scored in the first minute with measured approach play through Lewis Durow, Watson, Niall Hylton and Howes culminating in Manneh’s smart shot saved by Callum Hiddleston in the Ossett goal.  Watson’s elaborate overhead kick fired over from the rebound.

Within moments and the visitors were in behind the Carlton defence and only a superb save from Felix Annan prevented Sam Tingle from opening the scoring, the ball deflected out for a corner via the crossbar.

The breathless half continued with the feel of a cup tie and from the corner kick, Alex Peterson’s header from point blank range was missed to Annan’s right hand post. Straight up the other end and Manneh was bearing down on the Ossett goal and twisted Adam Watson inside out before trying his luck. A deflection squirrelled the ball beyond the reach of Hiddleston and Carlton were in front after just four minutes.

No stranger to rains in recent weeks but it was chances on goal that were raining down at the Bill Stokeld.  Howes, playing in a deeper role alongside Greg Tempest, played an excellent ball to Manneh, marauding down the left again. He cut infield and played a pass to Watson on the edge of the box. Watson made an excellent connection but fired the strike straight at Hiddleston.

Carlton continued to exert pressure and from a Durow long throw, Khyle Sargent produced a loopy header which almost dropped in. The attempt cannoned off the bar with the keeper beaten and only a superb interception by Paddy Miller snaffled the ball away from Manneh who was denied a tap in.

Not to be outdone, Ossett came back and a cross into the Carlton box was allowed to bounce. As chaos ensued, Peterson managed a shot on target but Annan smuggled the ball behind. Moments later, another long ball from deep bounced in the Carlton box right in front of Annan as the Millers stopper was caught in two minds. Peterson again the man closest but he couldn’t get the vital touch and Felix swatted away. More alarm bells in the home side’s box as Harry Coates headed wide from a corner when it seemed easier to score.

An even game then midway through the half but the scales tipped towards Carlton as a glorious move down the right involving Watson and Hylton doubled the advantage. Watson collected the ball wide out and played the pass to Hylton inside right on the edge of the box. The Millers wide man held off his defender and effectively dummied the ball. Watson showed presence of mind to continue his run, picked up the ball, dropped his shoulder to round the final defender and lashed the ball past Hiddleston.

Now going for the jugular, Carlton swarmed forward. The excellent Tempest won the ball in centre field and released Durow down the left. The left back’s cross fell between Niall Davie and Watson with defenders nearby. Davie laid off to Hylton on the edge of the box whose first time pass to Howes in an inside right position wrong-footed the onrushing defenders. Howes picked his spot and were it not for a brilliant block by Miller it would have been three. The rebound fell to Howes and he tried his luck again to the keeper’s left this time only to narrowly miss the target.

The referee had allowed the game to flow but had to book defender Watson for an agricultural hack on Manneh. In a well worked free kick, Davie supplied a great cross to Hylton attacking from the far post to the near. He was in front of his man but a poor connection meant the ball was cleared downfield instead of nestled in the onion bag.  Another foul on Manneh and another good position for a free kick. Twenty five yards out, left of centre, this one had the attentions of Watson and Davie. It was the skipper who went for goal and drew another wonderful save from the impressive Hiddleston.

In the final moments of a frantic half, Ossett won a free kick of their own wide on the right in the attacking third. Dangerously arrowed in by Miller, Annan batted it away as the whistle drew the half to a close.

With half time scores going against the visitors in the battle for survival, many were expecting a response but it was Carlton who started the brighter with Davie needing no invitation to run at the retreating Ossett back line. He was caught and floored however and took the free kick himself. Manneh rose highest but was again denied by the upright with Hiddleston scrabbling.

Ossett did respond though and David Adegbola was caught the wrong side of a good run from Derry Robson and booked as much for kicking the ball away as the foul itself. The free kick was in an advanced position but a poor delivery from Jacob McLoughlin was not what the visitors needed.

There was a little more possession now for Ossett but it didn’t amount to much and the Millers defence seemed comfortable. A long clearance from the Carlton defensive third landed with Hiddleston who played the ball out to Coates. As a unit, Howes, Manneh and Hylton pounced and squeezed the defenders on the ball and a loose pass was extracted by Howes who was through. He exchanged a glorious one two with Hylton who screened the last man and back heeled his return to Howes who was composed as he ran through and slotted past Hiddleston.

Almost instantly Ossett should have registered. Adam Priestley breaking the offside trap but inexplicably lifted his shot over Annan and the bar.

Just after the hour mark and Carlton made three swift changes. Lawrence Stewart-Gorman replaced Adegbola at right back. Mamadoh Sylla-Diallo came on for Howes and Davie was given a rest in place of the returning Jevon Seaton, the striker signed on dual registration before deadline day from Radford.  It was almost the dream second debut for Seaton as Manneh away down the right, got to the byline and crossed to Seaton who with his first touch made a good connection but it was straight at the Ossett keeper who continued with his fine performance.

Manneh again was first to respond from a knock down after a Durow throw. It was the tightest of angles but he still drew a save from Hiddleston who himself was thankful for the post to complete the clearance.

Manneh also had the ball in the net direct from a corner but the referee saw a foul on the goalkeeper and the strike was ruled out.

Both teams had chances in the closing moments. A route one goal kick from Hiddleston was knocked on by Peterson into the run of substitute Reece Mellor. He tried for goal but Annan was happy enough to let the ball flash past the post. Tingle was fouled on the edge of the box by Sylla-Diallo. He took the kick himself but it hit the wall and was cleared to safety.

Carlton should have scored a fourth as Seaton broke well into the box but was denied by a good challenge from Shane Killock.  Watson fired just over after a well worked corner, Sylla-Diallo shot wide after good hustle from Tempest to recover possession and release his midfield teammate and in the space of a minute, Manneh missed to the left and then the right of Hiddleston’s goal after excellent work from Seaton, Watson and Sylla-Diallo respectively found the Carlton winger in space.

This game could’ve quite easily finished 10-4 but a positive win for Carlton nonetheless in what is a very busy penultimate week of the regular season.

Carlton Town: F Annan, D Adegbola (L Stewart-Gorman 65), D Brown, K Sargent, L Durow, G Tempest, L Manneh, A Howes (M Sylla-Diallo 68), N Watson, N Davie (J Seton 69), N Hylton

Unused Subs: M Jebbison, P Dearle

Goals: L Manneh 4, N Watson 27, A Howes 63

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: Lamin Manneh

Att: 143

PLANNING: Proposed construction of car wash, tyre fitting garage and electric car charging station on Westdale Lane approved by Gedling planners

Plans to build a new a hand car wash, tyre fitting garage and electric car charging station in Carlton have been approved by council planners.

An application received by Gedling Borough Council from Mr Ian Storm of Storm Design, Beeston acting as agent on behalf of NG7 LTD. for the proposed construction of a hand car wash, tyre fitting garage and electric car charging station at 343 Westdale Lane West, Mapperley, NG3 6EW has been given the green light.

The approved application grants conditional permission to operate seven days per week as follows: opening hours – 8.00am – 6.00pm Mon – Sat and 9.00am – 4.00pm on Sunday.

Pictured: Propsed site plan on Westdale Lane (Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council planning)

A Design and Access (D & A) statement provided in support of the full planning application states that the site is adjacent a small independent builders merchants and Westdale Junior School on the opposite side of Westdale Lane.

It said Westdale Lane ‘is a busy link road through a mainly residential location interspersed with occasional commercial and retail units.’

The D & A statement also stated that the applicant has identified a strong demand for a modern high-quality car washing service with fully trained and uniformed staff. It would be supported with a tyre retailing facility and public electrical vehicle charging facility.

A single storey building incorporating reception, office and tyre changing areas is to be retained and reclad. This is also reflected in the planning application which states that the existing gross internal floorspace of 204sq.m is equivalent to the total gross new internal floorspace proposed.

Pictured: Proposed floor layout on Westdale Lane (Courtesy of Gedling Borough Council planning)

It is also proposed that the site will be fenced in using 3m High powder coated steel framed 12mm toughened glass panels with signage detailing to the upper levels with vehicular access from Westdale Lane only with egress from the site using the Ferndale Avenue exit only. The 3M high Glass screens will provide acoustic protection to the adjacent properties.

Public electric charging facilities will be positioned to the rear of the building away from the jet washing facility.

Further details regarding Planning Application 2023/0840 can be accessed HERE.

Gedling borough weather Thursday, April 18

A largely dry and bright morning, with light winds. Becoming increasingly cloudy, with strengthening winds and a band of rain arriving from the northwest into the afternoon. Maximum temperature 12 °C.

Tonight is expected to be cloudy with rain clearing slowly south by the early hours. Clear spells developing. Winds easing towards dawn. Feeling warmer than of late. Minimum temperature 8 °C.

Tomorrow will see bright spells with showers developing during the morning, these showers could be heavy at times, mostly easing by evening. Wind falling light. Maximum temperature 13 °C.

Taylor Swift ticket scam warning to Gedling borough residents as Notts ticket buyers lose nearly £100,000

Festival and concert goers looking to get last minute tickets to this summer’s top events including Taylor Swift’s latest tour are urged to be on their guard against fraudulent sellers, as new data reveals Nottinghamshire residents lost nearly £100,000 to ticket fraud last year.

People are being urged to be alert to fraudsters trying to catch out people planning for popular and sold-out events. 

New data released by Action Fraud – the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime – reveals more than 8,700 people reported they had been a victim ticket fraud, with a total of £6.7 million lost. This works out to an average loss of £772 per victim. 

Nottinghamshire Police received 111 reports of ticket fraud in 2023, amounting to £98,080.20 in losses.

The warning comes ahead of the Glastonbury Festival ticket resale and before top summer events, such as Taylor Swift’s sell-out Eras tour.

Detective Sergeant Sally Collins, of Nottinghamshire Police’s fraud unit, said: “No matter what you’re buying a ticket for: a concert, a sports event or a flight, please remain vigilant and be aware that there are fraudsters all over the globe trying to make money out of people’s desire to buy tickets quickly and easily online.

“Always buy tickets from an official events organiser or website and if you are tempted to buy from a secondary ticket source, always research the company or the person online before making the purchase.”

Ticket fraudsters often create fake ticket retail companies. Victims are lured in using social media or phishing emails with offers of the chance to buy tickets to a popular event, but instead give away their personal information or money, with no tickets received in return.

Phishing messages often look real, but instead will either steal your information or divert to malicious websites which can infect your computer with malware.

Pauline Smith, Head of Action Fraud, said:

“We all want to enjoy ticketed events this summer, but that doesn’t stop fraudsters from taking the fun out things we look forward to doing. Too many people are losing out to fraudulent activity or genuine looking phishing messages.

“Make sure you don’t get ticked off – recognise the signs of ticket fraud before getting caught out. Remember to be wary of unsolicited messages offering deals too good to be true.”

Of the reports made to Action Fraud last year, 34 per cent of reports (2,993) mentioned concert tickets, 29 per cent of reports (2,523) mentioned travel and 18 per cent of reports (1,561) mentioned sporting events. 

How to protect yourself from ticket fraud:

  • Only buy tickets from the venue’s box office, the promoter, an official agent or a well-known and reputable ticket exchange site.
  • Avoid paying for tickets by bank transfer, especially if buying from someone unknown. Credit card or payment services such as PayPal give you a better chance of recovering the money if you become a victim of fraud.
  • The password you use for your email account, as well as any other accounts you use to purchase tickets, should be different from all your other passwords. Use three random words to create a strong and memorable password, and enable 2-step verification (2SV).
  • Be wary of unsolicited emails, texts or adverts offering unbelievably good deals on tickets.
  • Is the vendor a member of Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR)? If they are, the company has signed up to their strict governing standards. STAR also offers an approved Alternative Dispute Resolution service to help customers with outstanding complaints. For more information visit star.org.uk/buy_safe.

Find out how to protect yourself from fraud by visiting: https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk

If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Gedling borough residents have been getting less bagged solid fuel than they paid for

Recent checks of bagged solid fuel have revealed that Gedling borough residents have been getting less than they paid for.

More than 10% of the bags of solid fuel being sold across the county that were checked by Nottinghamshire County Council’s Trading Standards officers were found to be underweight, by up to half a kilo each. 

During the routine cost of living checks, Trading Standards officers weighed 645 bags totalling around 16 tons, with 11% being found to be significantly underweight due to badly maintained weighing equipment at some of the county’s coal yards.

At one Nottinghamshire coal yard, the equipment was so inaccurate that every single bag that was weighed contained less than the amount stated on the label. This amounted to a consumer loss of nearly £13 per ton. Trading Standards officers removed all substantially underweight bags and they were repacked.

Further investigations revealed that weighing equipment from as far back as 1963 had mechanical parts bent out of shape making accurate weighing impossible. Following the inspections, all faulty equipment has been either repaired or replaced by the yards concerned.

Councillor Scott Carlton, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council

Nottinghamshire Trading Standards is now warning coal yards they may face prosecution if any further underweight bags of solid fuel are sold to residents. They are legally required to use weighing equipment that is both accurate and suitably maintained to pack bags to the correct weight displayed on them.

Under current legislation, manufactured solid fuels must also be certified for use, meaning that they must meet certain emission limits, and can only be sold if they are accompanied by the manufacturer’s name, product certification number and the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo. All the solid fuel that was inspected was also checked to ensure that it met these requirements.

Councillor Scott Carlton, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “With household budgets being stretched, it’s more important than ever to make sure residents are not being over-charged for the things that they buy. That’s why our Trading Standards officers regularly carry out routine inspections of suppliers and retailers across Nottinghamshire to make sure the residents are getting what they pay for and that they products they buy are safe and legal to use. 

“In those cases where we have found businesses are giving customers less than required, I am pleased to say that they have willingly repaired and adjusted their equipment to ensure customers will receive the correct amounts.” 

If residents have concerns about the goods or services, they receive from a business, they can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 for advice. If residents are struggling with their energy bills, then further guidance is available at https://www.gov.uk/get-help-energy-bills.

Revamping Your Newly Acquired Older Property

When you acquire an older property, it often comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re looking to restore it to its former glory or modernise it for contemporary living, each decision must be well thought out. This guide will help you navigate the process, offering practical advice and highlighting essential considerations to ensure your renovation journey is as smooth as possible.

Assessing the Condition of the Property

Before diving into any renovation, a thorough assessment of the property’s current condition is crucial. Begin by inspecting the structural integrity of the building. Check for signs of dampness, structural cracks, and roof conditions. It’s wise to engage a professional surveyor who can identify potential problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye. This initial step is fundamental because it determines the scope of your renovation project and helps avoid unexpected complications later.

Additionally, evaluate the plumbing, electrical systems, and insulation. Older properties might not only need aesthetic updates but also functional upgrades to meet current building regulations. This part of the process ensures that your property is safe, efficient, and comfortable once renovations are completed.

Planning Your Renovation

Once you have a clear understanding of what needs to be done, the next step is planning your renovation. This phase involves deciding on the extent of the renovation, whether it’s a full-scale remodel or selective upgrades. Prioritise the changes that will have the most significant impact on the property’s safety and functionality.

Creating a detailed plan helps in managing your budget more effectively. Allocate funds for both expected costs and unexpected expenses. It’s also helpful to sequence the work, starting with the most critical structural repairs before moving on to aesthetic changes. During this stage, you might find it beneficial to consult with architects or designers who specialise in renovating older properties. They can provide valuable insights and innovative solutions that respect the property’s original features while updating it for modern needs.

Selecting the Right Materials and Tools

Choosing the right materials and tools is essential for the success of your renovation project. For older properties, it’s important to use materials that are compatible with the building’s era while ensuring durability and efficiency. When it comes to tools, high-quality equipment can make a significant difference in the ease and quality of renovations.

For sourcing the best materials and tools, consider Trade Fix Direct. They offer a wide range of products that can meet the specific needs of your renovation project. Whether you need specialist tools or durable materials, finding the right supplier will save you time and ensure that you are using products that are up to the task.

In selecting materials, also consider the sustainability aspect. Using eco-friendly materials not only helps the environment but can also be beneficial for the long-term sustainability of your property. This approach can be particularly appealing if you’re planning to sell the property after renovations, as more buyers are looking for green and energy-efficient features.

Managing the Renovation Process

Effective management of the renovation process is key to keeping your project on track and within budget. Start by hiring reliable contractors who have experience with older buildings. Their expertise will be invaluable, particularly when dealing with the quirks and challenges of older construction.

Regularly communicate with your team and hold meetings to ensure everyone is clear about the project goals and timelines. Keep a close eye on the progress and quality of the work being done. It’s also essential to stay flexible; renovation projects can often reveal unexpected issues that require quick decision-making and adjustments to the plan.

Redesigning Layouts for Better Flow

Rethinking the layout can significantly enhance the usability and flow of the space. Consider removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open-plan living area, which is particularly effective in smaller homes. This not only makes the space feel larger but also improves natural light distribution. However, it’s crucial to consult with a structural engineer to ensure that any modifications you plan are safe and feasible.

Incorporate clever storage solutions to reduce clutter and make the most of every inch. Built-in shelves, under-stair drawers, and multi-functional furniture are excellent ways to add storage without consuming valuable floor space. These adaptations are not only practical but can also add to the property’s aesthetic charm.

Enhancing Natural Light

Improving natural light can make a profound difference in older properties. Consider enlarging windows or adding skylights where possible. Upgrading to larger, more energy-efficient windows not only enhances light but also improves insulation, reducing heating costs in the winter.

Strategic placement of mirrors can also amplify light, especially in darker rooms or hallways. Using light-coloured paints and finishes helps reflect natural light, making spaces appear brighter and more open. These changes not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your property but also enhance the overall mood and energy of the environment.

Arnold angler ordered to pay hundreds of pounds for not having £7 licence

An Arnold man has been ordered to pay £382 for fishing without a £7.10 licence.

Darius Hodgson, 43, from Killisick Road, Arnold, pleaded guilty to fishing without a licence in cases brought by the Environment Agency at Northampton Magistrates Court on Monday, April 4, 2024. 

He received a penalty of £191, including a fine of £40, costs of £135 and a victim surcharge of £16 after pleading guilty to fishing without a licence at Butterley Reservoir, Ripley on November 18, 2023.

A day’s fishing licence would have cost him £7.10.

Following the verdict, a spokesperson at the Environment Agency, said:   “We hope the penalty that this illegal angler has received will act as a deterrent to anyone who is thinking of breaking the laws and byelaws we have in place across England.

“Fishing illegally can incur a fine of up to £2,500 and offenders can also have their fishing equipment seized. We inspect rod licences 24/7, seven days a week to check on cases of illegal fishing and for those caught cheating the system, we will always prosecute.

“Illegal fishing undermines the Environment Agency’s efforts to protect fish stocks and make fishing sustainable.  Money raised from fishing licence sales is used to protect and improve fish stocks and fisheries for the benefit of legal anglers.”

Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence to fish.

A 1-day licence costs from just £7.10, and an annual licence costs from £35.80 (concessions available). Junior licences are free for 13 – 16-year-olds. 

Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency incident hotline 24/7 on 0800 807060 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

‘Total chaos’ as Nottinghamshire parents unable to confirm school places due to system crash” 

Nottinghamshire County Council has sought to reassure parents and carers after a system crash left people unable to confirm primary school places offered to their children.

Parents and carers in the county must apply for places through the Conservative-run council’s online school admissions portal.

Once places have been offered, they must then be accepted through the system.

However, a number of parents were only greeted with an error message when trying to submit their details on Tuesday, April 16, leaving them uncertain as to whether their confirmation had been accepted.

The council has apologised but says many acceptances were getting through despite the error message.

Cllr Michelle Welsh, Labour County Councillor for Arnold South and Gedling borough councillor for Porchester, said she was unable to confirm acceptance of her son’s place.

She said: “I have been contacted by a lot of parents that are unable to accept their school place.

“Some have received email confirmation and others haven’t. It is total chaos once again.”

Nottinghamshire County Council says more than 9,000 were accepted in the morning, but added its software provider is urgently investigating the issue.

Cllr Welsh said a similar problem plagued parents on secondary school offer day in March, and parents took to the council’s Facebook comments section to raise their concerns at the time.

The portal page shows an error message which reads “save failed”, highlighted in red, when a parent attempts to log their offer response.

Cllr Welsh said: “When you accept the offer you should get an email confirming the place. So not only is it not working and crashing in my case, but a lot of those 9,000 haven’t received the confirmation email.

“It is like buying something online and not getting the confirmation email and receipt. It is an utter mess.”

A Nottinghamshire County Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of an issue that some parents and carers are experiencing when accepting their school place and we would like to apologies to anyone affected.

“The council’s software provider is urgently investigating. However, we would like to reassure families that the system itself is working, despite the error message, and we have had more than 9,000 places accepted so far this morning.

“We are confident that these technical difficulties will not affect the school offers and families have until 30 April to accept their place.”