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Severn Trent hosts spooky sewer tours in Stoke Bardolph for families this half term

This October half-term, families are invited to dive into the creepy, crawly world beneath our feet with Severn Trent’s fang-tastic Halloween Special Sewage Treatment Works Tour in Stoke Bardolph.

It’s a spooktacular chance to explore what really goes bump (and squelch!) in the pipes, with a frightfully fun behind-the-scenes look at how sewage is treated. 

Little monsters can stir up their own ‘Sewer Soup’ in our hands-on workshop and brave the eerie Halloween Trail packed with ghoulish games and slimy surprises. It’s a scream, and it’s all free! 

Taking place on Tuesday, October 28, the free event promises a unique behind-the-scenes look at what really lurks beneath our streets. 

PICTURED: Stoke Bardolph sewage treatment works (PHOTO STW)

Running between 10am and 1pm, the session will be held at the Stoke Bardolph Sewage Treatment Works, the tour is designed especially for children aged five and over, offering a fascinating insight into how wastewater is treated and returned safely to the environment.  

In the Sewer Soup workshop, participants will be able to mix up their own gruesome concoctions and learn about the science behind sewage and families can also take part in a Halloween Trail around the site, packed with eerie surprises and educational challenges. 

Maxine Smith, senior education officer at Severn Trent, said: “We absolutely love welcoming families to our sites, and Halloween gives us the perfect excuse to add a little spooky sparkle to the science. 

“The Stoke Bardolph tour is a brilliant way for children to learn about the water cycle and the hidden world of sewage treatment in a way that’s fun, memorable and just a little bit gross.  

“From stirring up their own Sewer Soup to following our haunted Halloween Trail, there’s something for every curious young mind. We hope it inspires the next generation of environmental champions and gives parents a well-earned break from the usual half-term madness.” 

The event is free to attend but spaces are limited. Tickets are available via https://NOTTSHT.eventbrite.co.uk 

Social landlords must now tackle damp and mould within days under Awaab’s Law

Social landlords across Gedling borough from today must address emergency damp and mould hazards within 24 hours of reporting

The first phase of Awaab’s Law came into force today (October 27). 

Social landlords will also now have to investigate any significant damp and mould within 10 working days and then make properties safe in five working days.

For both types of hazards, they must also write the findings to tenants within three working days of inspection.   

Social landlords will also now have to investigate any significant damp and mould within 10 working days

Toddler Awaab Ishak died from prolonged damp and mould exposure in a Rochdale Borough-wide Housing home in December 2020.

As part of the reforms, registered providers must also consider the circumstances of residents which could put them at risk – including young children and those with disabilities or health conditions. Alternative accommodation must be offered if homes cannot be made safe within the required timeframes.

Those who fail to comply with Awaab’s Law risk being found in breach of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 by the courts. If found to be in breach a court can order the provider to do the repairs, pay costs or pay compensation to the resident.

Awaab’s Law has been iintroduced after toddler Awaab Ishak died from prolonged damp and mould exposure in a Rochdale Borough-wide Housing home in December 2020.

Steve Reed, housing secretary said:  “Everyone deserves a safe and decent home to live in and Awaab Ishak is a powerful reminder of how this can sadly be a matter of life or death. 

“Awaab’s family has fought hard for change and their work to protect millions of tenants’ lives will live on as a legacy to their son. Our changes will give tenants a stronger voice and force landlords to act urgently when lives are at risk, ensuring such tragedies are never repeated.”

Phase two of the legislation will be introduced in October 2026, where requirements will extend to include a number of hazards where they present a significant risk of harm. These include excess cold and excess heat, fire and electrical hazards and structural collapse and explosions.

Phase three will come into force in October 2027 to cover all remaining housing, health and safety rating system hazards.

Arnold man jailed after being found in possession of convertible gun and ammunition

An Arnold man found in possession of a readily convertible firearm has been locked up – in the first conviction of its kind for Nottinghamshire Police.

Knife crime team officers intercepted a taxi with Alanzo Walker onboard just minutes after he stopped off at a Radford gun store.

Walker, then 18, was in possession of a bag from the shop when he was stopped by police, who suspected he had a firearm.

The officers’ suspicions were proven to be correct, with the bag containing a top-venting blank firer (TVBF) capable of being converted into a lethal firearm.

Walker was on his way home with the pistol – which had been bought by someone else and given to him – when he was stopped by police on March 14, 2023.

A side view of the firearm seized, as well as the tray of ammunition

Walker, then 18, was in possession of a bag from the shop when he was stopped by police, who suspected he had a firearm

Believing he could be involved in other criminality, knife crime officers searched his home address in Coppice Road, Arnold, where they discovered a tray of ammunition.

A sock containing 30 bullets was found and seized, with police initially arresting Walker for possessing an imitation firearm and possessing ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.

He would later see his charge for the imitation firearm offence be switched to possessing a prohibited firearm, following a law change this February outlawing the pistol he’d been carrying.

That’s after tests by the National Crime Agency (NCA) identified four specific types of TVBFs – including the one Walker had – as having the potential to be readily converted into viable handguns.

While Walker was on bail for that, police also linked him to drugs supply offences, so conducted warrants at his home and another address in Pheasant Way, Calverton, on September 13, 2024.

The searches would ultimately uncover multiple deals of cocaine worth an estimated total value of £8,500, as well as substantial quantities of cannabis, worth just under £30,000.

Walker admitted to being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possessing with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, during a Nottingham Crown Court appearance on January 23, 2025.

He also pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition for a firearm without a certificate at a separate hearing but denied the charge of possessing a firearm of length less than 30cm – prohibited weapon.

That was until the day of his trial on Wednesday (22), when Walker, now 20, decided to change his plea to guilty.

This represented the first conviction of its kind relating to a readily convertible firearm in Nottinghamshire Police’s history, while it is believed to be a first for the region too.

Walker changed his plea following an extensive investigation led by the force’s Criminal Investigations Department and aided by a firearms examiner expert from Durham Constabulary.

He returned to Nottingham Crown Court to be sentenced for all his offences on Friday (24 October).

Walker, of Coppice Road, Arnold, was duly sentenced to a total of three years in a young offenders’ institution.

Detective Inspector Lisa Jones, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “It’s important that people realise these types of top-venting blank firing guns are incredibly dangerous and are now illegal in the UK.

“That’s for the simple reason that they have the potential to be readily converted into viable and potentially lethal firearms, should they fall into the wrong hands.

“Bearing this in mind, whatever his reasoning for carrying the pistol that day, Walker’s decision to do so was reckless in the extreme and completely unacceptable.

“The same goes for him storing a tray of ammunition in his house and – of course – deciding to supply drugs in our communities.

“As demonstrated in this instance, our police force will always take firm action should anyone be found or suspected to have a firearm in their possession.

“This conviction actually represented the first of its kind for Nottinghamshire Police, and followed a fantastic investigation led by our Criminal Investigations Department.

“I’d particularly like to praise Detective Constable Charlotte Webster, whose extensive efforts and persistence on this case got this matter to court and helped secure a guilty plea.

“The knife crime team also did a superb job in stopping Walker on the day of this offence, while I’d add thanks to our colleague from Durham Constabulary for his role in this result.”

Millers sign promising Mansfield Town youngster on month-long loan

Carlton Town have secured the the loan signing of one of Mansfield Town’s most promising youngsters.

The Millers have signed midfielder Ollie Taylor initially on a month’s loan.

Taylor is a creative ball playing midfielder with an eye for goal and was a big part of the Mansfield Town Under 19s League title winning side in 2023/2024.

He has made his first team debut for Stags in September and the coaching team are keen to see how he performs and adjusts to men’s football.

The Millers have signed midfielder Ollie Taylor initially on a month’s loan

Carlton have games coming thick and fast in November and do not want a repeat of last season, when their season unraveled during the same month. The Millers have a number of players carrying injuries and are keen to ensure they have a squad capable of coping with what will be a challenging month.

Carlton Town Joint Manager Mark Harvey said: “I am delighted to announce the loan signing of midfielder Ollie Taylor from Mansfield Town.  Ollie comes to us highly rated by everyone.

“A big thank-you to Richard Cooper and all at Mansfield for getting this deal over the line for us, The loan is initially for a month to help us through what will be a challenging few weeks as we move into a very busy November.”

Police appeal for information in search for missing man last seen in Daybrook area

Police are growing increasingly concerned for a missing man last seen in Daybrook.

Benjamin, also known as Skye, was last been seen on Thursday, October 23 2025.

A spokesman for Nottinghamshire Police said: “We are concerned for their safety and urgently want to hear from anyone who has seen them.

Benjamin, also known as Skye, was last been seen on Thursday, October 23 2025.

“Benjamin is described as 6ft tall with blonde shoulder length fair hair. It is unknown what he is wearing but is known to carry a large rucksack with lots of keyrings attached to it.

Benjamin has contacts across Nottinghamshire and is originally from Derbyshire.

If you have seen Benjamin or have any information about their whereabouts, please contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 0711_23102025

Gedling Lotto results: Winning numbers for Saturday, October 25, 2025

There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

We now publish the winning numbers after each Saturday night.

THIS WEEK’S WINNING NUMBERS (25/10/25)

1 7 0 8 0 3

How does Gedling Lotto work?

Gedling Lotto is a weekly lottery draw that raises money for good causes across Gedling Borough. All good causes supported by the lottery will benefit the Gedling Borough and its residents.

Play the lottery, support Gedling Borough – it’s that simple!

From every £1 ticket you buy, 60p will go to local good causes in the Gedling Borough and improve our community.

Some of the many causes to benefit from the Lotto include:

  • Arnbrook Primary School
  • Arnold Swimming Club
  • Gedling Play Forum
  • Gedling Conservation Trust
  • Lambley Village Cricket Club

Village streets bloom red as councillors place wooden Remembrance Poppies

A number of wooden, reusable poppies have been attached to lampposts across the Trent Valley area of Gedling borough by two councillors.

Cllrs Sam Smith and Mike Adams have once again been busy tying homemade wooden and reusable poppies to lampposts across Trent Valley — a heartfelt annual tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Cllr Sam Smith said: “It’s always a privilege to take part in this act of remembrance. These poppies are a small but visible way to show our gratitude to those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom. It’s an honour to put them up on lampposts each year.”

Cllrs Sam Smith and Mike Adams have once again been busy tying homemade wooden and reusable poppies to lampposts across Trent Valley

The councillors say they hope that residents across the area will pause to reflect as they pass the poppies

Cllr Mike Adams added: “The homemade and reusable poppies reflect the strength and spirit of our local community. Every year, residents stop to say how much they appreciate seeing them — a reminder that Trent Valley will always remember them.

“This year, we’ve also put up poppies along the Colwick Loop Road into Netherfield and Colwick, which are part of my Carlton East county council area, ensuring that the message of remembrance reaches across our wider community.”

The councillors hope that residents across the area will pause to reflect as they pass the poppies in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday, ensuring that the memory of the fallen lives on through simple acts of community respect and remembrance.

Where you will find the poppies

  • A612 Colwick Loop Road, from Vale Rd, at the junctions of Victoria Retail park, Mile End Rd and Sainsbury’s.
  • A612 Nottingham Road
  • Church Road, Burton Joyce
  • Chestnut Grove, Burton Joyce
  • Main Street, Burton Joyce
  • Burton Road, Gedling
  • Beaumaris Drive, Gedling
  • Stoke Lane, Gedling & Stoke Bardolph
  • Coronation Walk, Gedling
  • Florence Road, Gedling
  • Linden Grove, Gedling
  • Colwick Loop Road at its junction with Rivendell
  • Magenta Way, Rivendell, Stoke Bardolph
  • St Luke’s Way, Stoke Bardolph
  • Meadow Lane, Burton Joyce

Gedling police team carry out ‘reassurance patrols’ following Mapperley murder investigation

Police have been carrying out ‘reassurance patrols’ in the Mapperley area following the death of 23-year-old Stephanie Irons on Wednesday.

Detectives launched a murder investigation after she was found dead by emergency services.

Adedapo Adegbola, 40, was arrested on Wednesday (22) and was charged with murder on Friday (24).

It is believed the victim and suspect were known to each other.

Adegbola appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court earlier today (25) and was told he would be appearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, October 27. The 40-year-old will be remanded in custody until that appearance.

A 40-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released with strict bail conditions.

Sgt Mohson Hussain from Gedling’s Neighbourhood Team today updated the community on what action the team were taking since the incident.

“I know this has been a very tragic incident, but it also has been an opportunity for the community to come togeather and support one another,” he said.

“We are also grateful for the continued support by members of the public and the local community. 

“I would like to reassure the public that the Police are continuing with the investigation and our reassurance patrols. You will continue to see our officers and if you have any information please do speak to them.” 

Police charge man with murder following death of Stephanie Irons in Mapperley

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Police investigating the death of a woman in Mapperley have now charged a man with murder.

Following concerns for a woman’s safety, police were called to an address in Westdale Lane West at 10.07pm on Tuesday (21). 

Detectives launched a murder investigation after 23-year-old Stephanie Irons – known as Steph to her friends and family – was found deceased by emergency services.

It is believed the victim and suspect were known to each other.

Adedapo Adegbola, 40, was arrested on Wednesday (22) and was charged with murder on Friday (24 October).

Adegbola, of Woodborough Road, Mapperley, remains in custody and is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court today (25). 

23-year-old Stephanie Irons – known as Steph to her friends and family – was found deceased by emergency services.

Police had been called to an address in Westdale Lane West at 10.07pm on Tuesday

A 40-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released with strict bail conditions.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, senior investigating officer of the investigation, said: “This is a truly tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with Steph’s family and friends, who have asked for privacy at what must be an extremely difficult time.

“Specially trained officers are providing them with support and this will continue throughout the investigation process.

“Our team of investigators have worked extremely hard over the past few days to determine the full circumstances of what happened, and I am pleased we have now been able to charge a suspect in this case.

“I would also like to thank the local community for their patience and support over the last few days which has enabled us to progress the investigation.

“If you have any information that could assist us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 677 of 21 October 2025, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

‘It’s a long-term venture’: Notts Reform leader hits back over £75,000 spend on union flag banners

The Reform leader of Nottinghamshire County Council has justified a planned spend of £75,000 in taxpayer cash to replace old brackets and put up 164 Union Flag banners.

A total of 164 Union Flag banners will be displayed in 82 locations – including Gedling.

The banners will be displayed at a cost of about £457 each – but council leader Cllr Mick Barton says the spend will also include replacing brackets, traffic management, and the use of cherry pickers.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) it was a “long-term” investment, with future plans to put banners up in their place to celebrate Nottinghamshire Day, the Tour of Britain, and other events.

“We’ve done this from a safety point of view, because we had brackets up there anyway that were coming to the end of their life, they were put up like 10 to 15 years ago,” he said.

“So we went out and tested all of them. All of them have got to come down. We’ve said while we are at it we are going to put some new ones up.

“The actual cost of the banners is a small cost. It is about £16,000. The brackets are £32,000. That is half of the £75,000.

“If I read [about the cost], if I weren’t in my job, I might think it was a lot of money. But there is a lot more involved than what is in the top-line figure.

“This is a long-term venture. They will last 10 to 15 years. They are multi-functional, it is not just about the Union Flag. Initially we are going to put the Union Flag in these brackets and it is going to go across the county.

“We shan’t just be leaving the Union Flag in there. Next year when it comes to Remembrance Day, we have budgeted for banners to be going in there. We are doing a big thing on fostering next year, foster family promotion work, we are going to be putting those banners in there. We’ve got lots of other celebration work.

“There is even a £10,000 in that budget to take them down at the end of life, which wasn’t put in by the previous administration that we have had to pick up now.”

Opposition groups have criticised the move.

Conservative county councillor Mike Adams said: “As Conservatives we love the Union Flag. I have one outside my house, but it should stay as donations.

“People have been doing this out of their own pockets. Why should a struggling family be contributing to this from their council tax?”

Nottinghamshire’s Labour group also argued Reform was “wasting our money”.

There will be no vote on the decision, but councillors have five days to object to the spend or suggest changes.