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A6097 to close overnight between Gunthorpe Bridge and Lowdham roundabout from TODAY for five weeks as major resurfacing works begin

The A6097 between Lowdham and Gunthorpe will close overnight for five weeks to allow resurfacing and bridge maintenance works take place.

The closures will take place in three phases from 8pm until 6am between Monday 15 and Friday 17 October, excluding weekends.

Planned works include major resurfacing of the A6097 between Lowdham roundabout and Gunthorpe, replacing bridge joints on Gunthorpe Bridge, routine drain emptying works and highway electrical works.

Nottinghamshire County Council and Via East Midlands will carry out these works under one series of closures to reduce the disruption to residents and motorists.

During the closures, a diversion route along the A46, A52 and A612 will be in place and access will be maintained for residents living on the A6097. Access for Gunthorpe residents will be from either Lowdham roundabout or Gunthorpe Bridge depending on the phase of the works.

The first phase of closures from Monday 15 September until Wednesday 24 September will see a closure between Gunthorpe Bridge and Main Street and access to the village will be available via Main Street travelling from Lowdham roundabout.

The second phase will take place between Thursday 25 September and Wednesday 8 October and a closure between Main Street and Gunthorpe Road, Lowdham will be in place. Access to Gunthorpe village will be available via Gunthorpe Bridge and Trentside.

The final phase of works will take place between Thursday 9 October and Friday 17 October and will see a closure between Lowdham roundabout and Gunthorpe Road, Lowdham. Access To Gunthorpe Village will be available via Gunthorpe Bridge and Trentside.

From Monday 29 September until Friday 10 October, two-way temporary traffic lights will be in place overnight on Gunthorpe Bridge to allow bridge joint replacement works to take place. This will not be a full closure to maintain access to Gunthorpe village.

Derek Higton, Executive Director for Place at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “We are pleased to be undertaking major resurfacing works on the A6097 between Lowdham roundabout and Gunthorpe Bridge, and to minimise disruption for motorists and residents, we have tied these works in with other bridge maintenance, draining and electrical works to complete them all under one series of closures.

“This is part of our whole street approach and reduces the need for further closures in future.

“We would like to thank motorists and residents in advance for their patience whilst we complete these works.”

MATCH REPORT: Matlock Town 3-0 Carlton Town

Carlton Town’s FA Cup run came to an end with a 3-0 defeat at Matlock Town.

The Gladiators scored twice in the final minutes to put a gloss on the scoreline that was harsh on the Millers, but the visitors could have no complaints about the result of the game despite their valiant efforts on the day.

Mark Harvey and Andy Clerke made two changes to the side which had progressed in the FA Trophy last time out against Long Eaton, with Greg Tempest and Oliver Clark replacing the absent Niall Davie and the suspended Nat Watson.

Matlock featured Northern Ireland international Conor Washington in their starting eleven, a player who joined the Gladiators in the summer from Championship side Derby County.  They also started with Tom Elliott who joined from step 2 side Buxton in the summer with another ex-Buck Diego De Girolamo on the bench.

That difference in quality was certainly evident in the open 15 minutes as Matlock flew out of the blocks and pinned Carlton back.  An early corner was headed clear by Dean Freeman and when the ball was played back in Khyle Sargent made a superb block.

Kiyani Clayton then fired just wide of the post as Carlton struggled to retain any possession.  A goal looked like it was coming and it arrived on 15 minutes via the penalty spot.  A corner was played into the Carlton penalty area, Lewis Durow brought down Elliott and Washington sent Felix Annan the wrong way.

Clayton then sent up Elliott for a shot only for Annan to make a superb save.

Carlton overcame their sluggish start and had their best spell of the game in the final 25 minutes of the first half.  Tempest and Durow combined for Ash Chambers to strike at goal, but his effort was blocked.  At the other end Dan Brown had to be alert to intercept as Matlock raced forward, but Carlton began to take control of the midfield, with Clark particularly impressive against his old team.

Durow crossed for Sargent to volley at goal which earned Carlton a corner.  Tempest whipped in the ball for Clark to head goalwards, only to be denied by a superb save to his left by Jake Oram.  Moments later the same two players combined with Clark heading over.

Roared on by a large travelling support Clark advanced down the left before crossing to Chambers whose shot beat Oram but agonisingly hit the post.  That was the closest Carlton would come to scoring.

Matlock always looked dangerous though and when Brown held up Washington, Elliott was on hand to fire high over the top.  Annan was then called upon to make another fine save, this time from Clayton.

Carlton pushed forward themselves and Chambers chipped just over shortly before half time.

The second half was a scrappier affair with Carlton working hard but Matlock keeping their shape and full back Declan Eratt-Thompson covering seemingly all of the Millers attacks.  Brown had to be alert to block an early Washington effort while Tempest lifted a free kick just over after Sargent was fouled.

Tempest saw another shot saved with Chambers claiming a penalty n the build up for a push, but the referee was not interested.

Both Freeman and Brown got in important blocks as Matlock moved the ball around menacingly.  Chambers dispossessed Harlain Mbayo on the half line and spotted Oram off his line.  He tried an audacious chip but it lacked purchase and Oram saved comfortably.

Carlton made a number of substitutions in an effort to get an equaliser and by the end of the game Freeman was playing as an additional striker.  But in truth the changes failed to have the desired effect as Matlock kept their shape and kept the Millers at arms length.

Liam Moran did see one shot saved by Oram and with four minutes remaining Carlton had their final chance.  Moran and Sargent combined to play the ball to Niall Hylton on the edge of the box.  He turned beautifully to leave his marker trailing but then fired wide of target.

Matlock sealed the win in the 90th minute when Washington held off Shea Thomspon-Harris and rifled home from inside the area.  Deep into added time Annan made a fine save from Cameron Wilson but there was still time for the Gladiators to score again when Eratt-Thompson darted forward before setting up substitute De Girolamo who arrowed a drive into the corner of the net.

Those final goals were harsh on the Millers who claimed both may have been offside (the video suggests it was very tight either way) but there was no disgrace in going out to a side with such resources in the strikeforce.  The Milllers deserved the applause from the traveling support on the final whistle.

Carlton Town: F Annan, L Bateman (S Thompson-Harris 78), L Durow, D Brown, D Freeman, G Tempest (E Robson 73), A Howes (L Moran 65), K Sargent, A Chambers (A Troke 78), O Clark (K Watson 73), N Hylton.  Unused subs: L Manneh

Goals: Conor Washington 15 (pen), 90, Diego De Girolamo 90+5

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: G Tempest

Att: 507

Colwick man among trio appear in court after Class A drugs raid

A Colwick man is among three suspects who have appeared in court after police seized large amounts of Class A drugs when they raided a home in Sherwood.

As well as recovering Class A drugs from various rooms within the property, officers also found cannabis, large amounts of cash and a hunting knife.

Three men who were inside the address were arrested on suspicion of a number of offences.

Ajarie Darrell, aged 22, of Private Road, Nottingham, has been charged with possession with intent to supply a Class A drug, concealing criminal property, possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.

Diore Darrell, aged 19, of Sands Close, Colwick, has been charged with possession with intent to supply a Class A drug, concealing criminal property, possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply, possession of an offensive weapon in a private place and possession of nitrous oxide.

Thirty-year-old Rojai Darrell, of Henrietta Street, Bulwell, has been charged with possession with intent to supply a Class A drug, concealing criminal property and possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply.

All three appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (11) and will next appear at Nottingham Crown Court on October 9, 2025.

Inspector Liz Gaskin, neighbourhood policing inspector for city central, said: “Teams across the force are working hard to disrupt drug supply and associated criminality through proactive work like this.

“We believe these warrants, and the charges which have followed, are an important development in tackling drug issues in this neighbourhood, where it has been identified as a policing priority.”

Store theft in Daybrook sparks CCTV appeal after high-value bike helmets stolen

Police investigating the theft of three high-value motorcycle helmets from a store in Daybrook want to speak to the man and woman pictured on CCTV.

The incident took place at BDLA Motorbikes, in Sherbrook Road at around 4pm on August 26, 2025.

A couple entered the store and while the man distracted staff the woman took the helmets from the shelves.

Both then left without making any attempt to pay.

Police have released these images of a man and woman who could have important information about what happened

The man distracted staff at the store whilst the woman took the helmets from the shelves.

Officers attended to carry out an area search and have been analysing CCTV footage and making other inquiries.

They are now in a position to release these images of a man and woman who could have important information about what happened.

Police are now in a position to release these images of a man and woman who could have important information about what happened.

Police Constable Josh Bradbury, of the Gedling North neighbourhood policing team, said: “This was a brazen theft of high-value items and we have been working hard on the investigation.

“We would like to talk to the man and woman pictured as part of our inquiries, so if you know them please get in touch without delay.

“Likewise if you have any other information about the incident, please call 101, quoting incident 481 of 26 August 2025.”

Why Local Markets Still Matter in a Digital Shopping Age

https://unsplash.com/s/photos/farmers-market

Local markets have always been more than places to buy and sell goods. They are gathering points, social hubs, and reflections of community identity. In towns and cities across the UK, markets continue to offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique items that cannot be found on supermarket shelves. The atmosphere of a bustling market, with its mix of voices, scents, and traditions, remains a vital part of local culture. Yet the rise of digital shopping has challenged many of these spaces, raising questions about how they can compete in an age of instant convenience.

Many industries have already embraced the digital shift. Banking, healthcare, education, and entertainment have all moved significant parts of their services online. Customers expect faster payments, simpler access, and user-friendly design in nearly every interaction they have. The same is true in leisure. For example, the best online casinos in UK localities are praised for perks such as quick withdrawals, wide game selections, and the ability to play anytime without barriers. These features mirror a broader demand across society: digital platforms must deliver efficiency while still creating engaging experiences. What is striking is that local markets, despite their traditional character, are learning to adopt some of these expectations while keeping their authenticity intact.

Technology is no longer absent from the market square. Many stallholders now accept contactless payments, use mobile apps to advertise their products, and manage their businesses through online platforms. Customers can browse what will be on sale before they even leave home, or place special orders via social media. These innovations mean that markets are not being left behind—they are evolving. By offering modern conveniences while preserving the personal touch, they bridge the gap between tradition and technology.

One of the strongest arguments for local markets is the human connection. In a world where algorithms often dictate what we see and buy, speaking directly with a producer offers reassurance and trust. A conversation with a baker about their sourdough starter or with a farmer about seasonal vegetables provides knowledge and transparency that digital platforms cannot replicate. The interaction is as much a part of the purchase as the product itself. For many people, this sense of connection is worth the occasional inconvenience of leaving the house.

Markets also provide economic resilience for communities. While major retailers and online giants dominate global trade, local producers keep money circulating within neighbourhoods. Stallholders are often small businesses or family enterprises whose success benefits the local economy directly. They create jobs, support suppliers, and ensure that communities retain some independence from external forces. In times of uncertainty, these networks of small-scale trade can provide stability.

Sustainability is another reason markets remain important. Buying local reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances. Fresh produce sold at a market often has fewer preservatives, less packaging, and shorter journeys from farm to table. This resonates with the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible choices. For many, supporting local markets is both a practical and ethical decision.

Cultural heritage is woven into every market. From historic market halls in northern towns to seasonal fairs in rural villages, markets are part of the UK’s story. They showcase regional specialities, crafts, and traditions that would otherwise struggle to survive. Walking through a market is often a journey through local identity. The sound of traders calling out prices, the sight of traditional displays, and the feeling of community are experiences that digital platforms cannot fully replicate. Preserving markets is therefore also about preserving culture.

That said, digital convenience cannot be dismissed. Consumers today live busy lives and often seek the easiest option. Markets must continue to adapt if they are to thrive. Some are already creating hybrid models, where online catalogues complement physical stalls, or where home delivery services are offered alongside market days. This flexibility allows them to meet changing expectations without losing their roots. For younger generations raised on digital convenience, this adaptation is crucial.

Tourism is another area where markets play a key role. Visitors often seek out local markets as authentic experiences. They offer a chance to taste regional delicacies, purchase unique souvenirs, and engage with residents. For towns and cities, markets are an asset that boosts the visitor economy while showcasing local pride. Digital promotion through websites and social media ensures that these markets are visible to wider audiences, drawing in people who might not have otherwise visited.

The future of local markets may lie in this careful balance. They cannot compete with the sheer scale of online platforms, but they do not need to. Their strength lies in offering something that digital commerce cannot replicate: authenticity, connection, and community. By adopting enough technology to remain relevant while preserving their essence, they can continue to thrive in a changing world.

Ultimately, markets still matter because they remind us of what commerce once was and what it can still be. They are places where conversations accompany purchases, where community spirit is visible, and where traditions meet the modern age. Digital shopping may be here to stay, but it cannot replace the unique value of a market square. As long as people continue to crave connection, authenticity, and trust, local markets will remain a vital part of everyday life in the UK.

Enhancing your Volkswagen’s performance: The role of VW alloy wheels

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Enhancing your Volkswagen’s performance goes beyond engine tuning and suspension upgrades. However, among such upgrades, one that is often overlooked but still very effective is the choice of the right VW alloy wheels. Alloy wheels upgrade extend benefits to handling, ride quality and the overall driving experience.

One of the performance features of VW alloy wheels is the light-weighted property. Unsprung weight refers to the mass of the wheel not supported by the suspension system. Thus, less weight on each wheel helps the suspension work better and handle bumps and imperfections in the road. This leads to improvements in grip and stability. The result is faster steering response as well as better braking performance along with a more engaging driving experience.

In addition to performance benefits, VW alloy wheels are generally better at cooling brakes compared with regular steel wheels. This fact leads to a more steady brake temperature during spirited driving or a long journey, reducing the risk of brake fade. Moreover, alloy wheels are less likely to corrode and, therefore, keep both their appearance and structural integrity over time. Drivers who want their car to perform well and look good often choose VW alloy wheels.

Once you understand what is needed, it is easy to get quality wheels and Elite Wheels & Tyres makes finding the perfect set of VW alloy wheels easy. Whether you prioritise design, performance, or a mix of both, their expertise ensures you find the alloy wheels that fit your car and driving style perfectly.

Good alloy wheels not only provide functional advantages but can also be a great source of visual expression for your car. The modem, sporty VW alloy wheels design is a perfect match for Volkswagen’s sleek lines, thereby making your car look refined yet dynamic. Be it classic multi-spoke or adventurous mesh, there are alloy wheel sets that match all VW models – from Golf to Tiguan.

When considering a change and deciding to buy new Volkswagen wheels make it a habit to check their specifications such as correct load rating, speed and size. Installation of the right tyre on the right rim will also help in keeping the speedometer accurate as well as the car’s original handling dynamics. Correct installation and wheel balancing help eliminate vibrations and improve driver safety.

To sum up, upgrading to beautiful and functional VW alloy wheels, gives you the triple benefit of improved performance, enhanced safety and attractive aesthetics, while also making a real difference through their lighter weight, improved heat management, and oxidation resistance for Volkswagen owners seeking a noticeable driving upgrade that they can feel. This improvement becomes both accessible and enjoyable when the right Volkswagen alloys are chosen, fitted and supported by reliable suppliers.

Nest boxes bid to preserve Netherfield’s barn owls at nature reserve

Gedling Conservatio Trust is calling on members of the public to support its new appeal to raise more than £450 to help the barn owl thrive.

With its distinctive heart-shaped face and ghostly form, the iconic barn owl was once a common sight in Nottinghamshire but today it is one of our county’s most threatened species.

The old, wooden, barn owl box sited at Netherfield Lagoons is approaching the end of its life after nearly 20 years of service.

Just this year it has provided a home for four owl chicks but needs replacing when they fledge.

The Trust are now looking to buy a new, long-lasting, weather resistant box, designed in collaboration with the Barn Owl Trust.

A spokesman for the Trust said: “We feel that a Tawny Owl box would also be an excellent addition to our housing portfolio as there have been many sightings.

“Each box costs £180 and installation for both should cost £100. We are seeking to raise £460 for installation over this coming winter.

“As an addition, it would be possible to install a camera in the Barn Owl Box which would enable us to monitor activity and make the film available via social media. For a camera, batteries etc. we would need a further £500.

You can make a donation HERE

Gedling man jailed after handguns and ammunition found at property following house fire

A man has been jailed after a pair of handguns, magazines of ammunition and a silencer were found in his house in Gedling.

Police officers made the shocking discovery after being called to a fire at a property in Shearing Hill.

Homeowner Jason Spence wasn’t in at the time of the blaze, which was ruled an accident by fire investigators.

When a large cannabis grow was immediately discovered within the house, police conducted further searches.

These extended to outside, where officers came across a green holdall bag hidden in a loft space inside the garage.

A handgun and a self-loading pistol were inside it, along with multiple rounds of ammunition and a sound moderator.

Jason Spence wasn’t in at the time of the blaze, which was ruled an accident by fire investigators.

A handgun and a self-loading pistol were inside it, along with multiple rounds of ammunition and a sound moderator.

The firearms were checked over by experts and confirmed to be viable.

Police seized the bag’s contents, while the 109 cannabis plants and growing equipment inside the address were removed too.

The house searches on 11 January this year quickly established that the property belonged to Jason Spence.

He was nowhere to be seen but was found and arrested days later in Stockport, Greater Manchester.

The 54-year-old was charged with two counts of possessing a firearm less than 30cm in length and four counts of possessing ammunition for a firearm.

He was additionally charged with possessing a firearm without a certificate – in relation to the silencer – and producing cannabis.

Having pleaded guilty to all the counts, Spence, of Shearing Hill, Gedling, attended Nottingham Crown Court to be sentenced on Monday (September 8).

He was sentenced to ten years and eight months behind bars. 

Detective Inspector Julian Eminson-Ferry, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“It can’t be stressed enough how dangerous Jason Spence’s decision to have and store these items in his home was.

“Both the firearms discovered in his garage were viable and therefore deadly weapons.

“If that wasn’t bad enough, he compounded this danger further still by holding four sets of different ammunition and a silencer in the same bag.

“Whatever his motivations were for having this haul of weapons, he put others around him at risk of harm with his actions and deserves the prison sentence he’s received.

“It really shouldn’t need to be explained why having a viable firearm in your possession is such a serious offence.

“There is never an excuse for anyone to become involved in gun crime and anyone who does so should expect to face a lengthy spell behind bars.”

Daughter of disabled former nurse from Arnold is taking to the skies to raise cash for Support Dog charity

Sophia Hollis was approaching her 10th birthday when her mum collapsed in the bathroom during a suspected stroke.

Two and a half years later mum Anita, of Arnold, was diagnosed with idiopathic Ataxia, a neurological disorder which affects balance and walking, speech, swallowing, vision and hearing. She also has small fibre neuropathy, which affects sensations in the hands and feet.

Anita, now 51, was diagnosed in late 2015 and the condition forced her to leave her nursing job after 20 years.

She now uses a wheelchair, walking sticks or a mobility scooter.

Anita, who worked at Queen’s Medical Centre for five years and spent 15 years in community nursing, found herself increasingly isolated and anxious to go out on her own, finding her local shop’s aisles too narrow to navigate in her mobility scooter.

She was once even made to feel that a supermarket security guard suspected she was drunk, after her condition caused her to fall into a freezer, coupled with slurred speech.

Sophia, a 22-year-old veterinary medicine student at the University of Nottingham, is preparing to tackle Support Dogs’ first-ever mass Skydiving Day

But she has been given a new lease of life, after having her pet dog Oliver trained by the national Support Dogs charity.

Not only is the handsome Golden Retriever undergoing training as a disability assistance dog to help Anita to live more independently, being out and about with Oliver in his blue Support Dogs jacket signals to others that Anita has a disability.

Anita said: “Oliver has been trained to push door access buttons, empty the washing machine, take my socks and trousers off, fetch the post, tidy toys and does an alert bark if I end up on the floor.

“I take him everywhere now, which is brilliant.

“Support Dogs saves the NHS so much money, but gets no help with funding.”

Now her daughter, Sophia, a 22-year-old veterinary medicine student at the University of Nottingham, is preparing to tackle Support Dogs’ first-ever mass Skydiving Day, which takes place at Langar Airfield in Notts on September 20.

Sophia, who also organised a bake sale in aid of Support Dogs at Arnold’s Major Oak pub last month, admitted she was “terrified” at the thought of jumping out of a plane at 10,000ft and up to 120mph.

Anita added: “I think she’s crazy!”

But Sophia said: “I’ve seen such progress in Oliver – when we take him into town to get more experience, people really react to him pressing disabled access buttons and how calm he is.

“It’s absolutely brilliant to see other people’s reactions.

“It’s given my mum a huge amount of confidence, knowing he’s there. His skills have come on incredibly.”

She added: “When Oliver went for his initial training with Support Dogs, he stayed with volunteers for a month – they must be so motivated.

“The fact training is all funded through the charity means my mum is able to access that support she wouldn’t be able to otherwise. She’s always known about Support Dogs, but didn’t realise how rewarding it would be to work with them. They really are changing lives.”

Rita Howson, chief executive at Yorkshire-based Support Dogs, said: “We rely heavily on donations from fantastic fundraisers like Sophia and we’re so proud that Oliver is helping to make a huge difference to her and her mum. Good luck, Sophia and all our other brave skydivers!”

Anyone wishing to sponsor Sophia can do so at www.justgiving.com/page/sophia-hollis-1

To find out more about Support Dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.

Police in Woodborough say it’s no joke to hoax after false call about knife fight in village

Police in Woodborough have launched an investigation after a hoax 999 call was made n the village.

Officers said calls like this “divert resources from other potentially serious incidents”.

Police were called to Lingwood Lane around 7.30pm on Tuesday, September 2 following reports later found to be false that two men were fighting with knives.

After attending the scene and carrying out investigations, officers believe it to have been a hoax call.

Inspector Steven King, local inspector for Gedling borough, said: “This type of call can waste valuable police time and divert resources from other potentially serious incidents.

“Inquiries will continue to find who was responsible for this call and we won’t hesitate to prosecute anyone found to be wasting the time of our emergency services.”