ALEX BELFIELD: Mapperley presenter who was jailed for stalking to pay damages to police officer in charge of investigation

Gedling Eye Reporter
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ALEX BELFIELD: Mapperley presenter who was jailed for stalking to pay damages to police officer in charge of investigation

A former BBC radio presenter from Mapperley who was convicted of stalking Jeremy Vine is to pay compensation to a police officer who launched a libel case against him after being accused of being part of a “witch hunt” with the BBC.

Detective Constable Janet Percival of Nottinghamshire Police has won her libel action against Alex Belfield, the former BBC radio presenter, who was convicted of criminal harassment in September 2022 and sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison.

From July 2020, Janet Percival was the officer in charge of the criminal investigation into complaints by a number of individuals, including broadcaster Jeremy Vine, of harassment/cyber stalking by Belfield. 

Following his radio career, Alex Belfield had been broadcasting videos on a You Tube channel in which he styled himself: ‘Alex Belfield – Voice of Reason’ and which had a viewership of up to 360,000. He also had a website behind a paywall and had conducted a theatre tour in 2022 with Katie Hopkins with the title ‘Two Gobshites Live’.

From March 2021 when the police investigation was underway, Alex Belfield started broadcasting videos making very serious libellous allegations against Janet Percival.

Over the course of some 15 videos, he accused her of numerous acts of misconduct and corruption including acting unlawfully in police raids on his home, repeatedly lying to the courts, making threats against him, changing a witness statement to mislead the court, receiving corrupt payments, and unlawfully taking equipment from him.

All these allegations were completely false. In fact, Janet Percival had acted professionally and properly as a police officer at all times.

After her letter of claim was rejected in dismissive terms, Janet Percival was left with no option but to start court proceedings for libel against Belfield. These have now been settled on terms which include the payment of a substantial sum in respect of compensation and costs and the reading of a Statement in Open Court.

At the reading of the Statement on 2 May 2024 (attached). DC Percival’s solicitor, Jeremy Clarke-Williams of Penningtons Manches Cooper, told the court that: “As a serving police officer Janet Percival is unfortunately used to dealing with hostility from people she has arrested, but Alex Belfield’s online campaign peddling serious untruths about her was something she could not ignore. It was too damaging.” 

In turn, Mr Belfield offered a: “… sincere and unqualified apology to Janet Percival for the embarrassment and distress caused to her and for the serious harm caused to her personal and professional reputation.”

Reacting to her success, Percival said: “I am very pleased that through taking this action I have been able to vindicate my reputation, which is very precious to me. I take pride in always conducting myself professionally and honestly as a police officer, and the baseless and false allegations which Mr Belfield broadcast about me were extremely upsetting. It is a huge relief that I can now get on with my police career without this cloud hanging over me.” 

Janet Percival was represented by Jeremy Clarke-Williams and Eva McHale of Penningtons Manches Cooper and Kate Wilson, Counsel, of 5RB.

Alex Belfield was represented by Alan Robertshaw of Counsel.

Gedling borough’s latest petrol and diesel prices – and where’s the cheapest to fill up

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling borough’s latest petrol and diesel prices – and where’s the cheapest to fill up

Petrol prices remain high across the country, as households across Gedling borough continue to be squeezed by the cost of living crisis.

Gedling Eye has compiled a list of the cheapest petrol pumps in Gedling borough. The data is sourced from PetrolPrices.com, which covers major service stations including brands like BP, Shell, and Texaco as well as supermarkets, smaller chains and independent stations.

The website combines price data from Catalist with its own crowdsource data, which comes from website users and forecourt owners. The site says it hopes to have “the most up to date and reliable price data across the industry”.

The UK’s average fuel price is 143.75p per litre for Unleaded and 153 p per litre for diesel as of May 1.

The following prices were reported locally on 01/05/24

Here are the latest prices from across the borough…

UNLEADED…

Arnold

Sainsbury’s Arnold – 144.9p

Asda Arnold – 144.7p

BP Daybrook (Mansfield Road) – 146.9p

Esso Maid Marion (Mansfield Road) – 148.9p

Carlton

Texaco Burton Road – 147.9p

Shell Carlton Square – 147.9p

Texaco Westdale Lane (East Lane Service Station) – 146.9p

Petrol_pump

Colwick

Sainsbury’s Colwick – 146.9p

Lambley

Lambley Motors – N/A

Mapperley

Asda Mapperley – 146.7p

Netherfield

Morrisons – 146.9p

DIESEL…

Arnold

Sainsbury’s Arnold – 153.9p

Asda Arnold – 153.7p

BP Daybrook – 155.9p

Esso Maid Marion (Mansfield Road) – 153.9p

Carlton

Texaco Burton Road – 154.9p

Shell Carlton Square – 154.9p

Texaco Westdale Lane (East Lane Service Station) – 155.9p

Colwick

Sainsbury’s Colwick – 153.9p

Lambley

Lambley Motors – N/A

Mapperley

Asda Mapperley – 154.7p

Netherfield

Morrisons – 154.9p

Preparing for Your Next Trade Show – A Guide for Gedling Businesses

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Preparing for Your Next Trade Show – A Guide for Gedling Businesses

If you run a business in Gedling and are gearing up for a trade show, you’re in a fantastic position to boost your brand visibility and network with industry peers. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you prepare effectively and make a lasting impression.

Know Your Goals

First things first, what do you want to achieve at this trade show? Whether it’s generating leads, launching a new product, or enhancing brand awareness, having clear goals will guide all your other decisions. This clarity helps in choosing the right events and planning your booth design to align with your objectives.

Design Your Space

The design of your exhibition space is more than just aesthetics; it’s a strategic element of your trade show success. It acts as the physical embodiment of your brand at the event, and it must capture attention and encapsulate your brand’s ethos and message. Think creatively about how your booth can stand out from the competition.

Companies like Focal Exhibitions are experts in crafting bespoke exhibition solutions that are visually striking and tailored to convey your unique brand story.

Plan Your Logistics

Effective logistics are the backbone of a successful trade show. It involves meticulous planning and execution, from transporting your booth components to setting everything up on-site. Knowing the dimensions and location of your booth space is crucial, as is being aware of the time frames for setup and breakdown.

Consider the logistics of technology too; ensuring reliable WiFi, high-quality sound systems, and optimal lighting are essential for a functional display. Good logistics planning also means having contingency plans for equipment malfunctions or delays, ensuring that no matter what happens, your booth operates smoothly.

Train Your Team

Your team’s performance can make or break your trade show experience. Selecting the right representatives—those who are knowledgeable about your products and services and enthusiastic and engaging—is crucial.

Training should go beyond product knowledge; it should also focus on customer engagement techniques and understanding the strategic goals of participating in the trade show. Role-playing can be an effective training tool to help your team prepare for various types of interactions they might face, from handling common questions to managing more challenging conversations or technical issues.

Market Your Presence

Maximising your trade show impact starts well before the event itself. Marketing your presence is crucial to ensure that the right people know you’ll be there and what to expect from your booth.

Utilise all your channels—from social media and email campaigns to your company website—to spark interest and draw attendees. Tailor your messages to highlight what’s unique about your exhibition, and consider offering incentives like giveaways or exclusive offers for those who visit your booth. This proactive approach increases your visibility and sets the stage for more productive interactions during the event.

Follow Up

After the trade show, the work isn’t over. Following up promptly with the contacts you’ve made is crucial to capitalising on your efforts. Whether sending a thank you email, mailing a brochure, or setting up a meeting, timely follow-up can make all the difference in converting leads into customers.

Trade shows are a golden opportunity for local businesses in Gedling to step out of their daily routine and engage with a broader audience. With the right preparation, you can turn a few days of exhibition into long-term success for your business.

Remember, it’s not just about showing up; it’s about making an impact!

Match Report: Stockton Town 2 – 0 Carlton Town

Alan Murphy
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Match Report: Stockton Town 2 – 0 Carlton Town

NPL First Division East Playoff Semi-Final – 30 April 2024

Carlton Town’s season came to an end as they were beaten 2-0 at Stockton Town in the NPL East playoff semi-final.

The Anchors had finished 15 points ahead of the Millers in the table and had only lost once at home all season.  But that home defeat was against Carlton on Easter Saturday and although the Millers travelled to Teesside as underdogs, they had hopes of causing an upset and making it to the playoff final for the first time in their history.  But, with Carlton playing their 10th game of the month, Stockton were just too strong and fully deserved the win earned courtesy of a poacher’s brace from Glen Butterworth.

When the dust settles Carlton will reflect on an excellent campaign involving some fine football, two good cup runs and the highest league finish for 12 years.  There is much to be positive about around Stoke Lane.

Tommy Brookbanks and Mark Harvey made five changes to the side which had lost at Brighouse on the final day of the season.  Back into the side came Dan Brown, Dean Freeman, Lamin Manneh, Alex Howes and Alex Hardwick.  They replaced Lawrence Gorman, Peter Dearle, Mamadoh Sylla-Diallo and Micah Jebbison and Niall Davie.

In front of a crowd of 1637, by far the biggest ever to watch a Carlton game, and with tremendous backing from the 50 or so Millers fans who had made the trip, Carlton began well enough and Howes volleyed wide as early as the third minute.  But as the game settled down it became clear that Stockton were not going to allow Carlton the time on the ball they had in the league meeting a month earlier.

Felix Annan made an excellent double save from Camero Painter and Butterworth before David Adegbola made a superb clearance as the home side threatened to score.

When Carlton won here a month earlier they passed and moved the ball really well, controlling large parts of the game.  But Stockton’s pressure was forcing Carlton to play repeated long balls with the result that they kept ceding possession.

Notwithstanding that, the effort was tremendous and they still carried an attacking threat, with home goalkeeper Nathan Harker making an excellent save from a Hardwick shot after Howes and Niall Hylton had combined following some lovely control by Hylton.

Freeman and Dan Brown were having to be constantly on their guard as Stockton sought a way through and Adegbola and Durow likewise in the wide positions but defensively Carlton kept their shape well.  Khyle Sargent and Greg Tempest were doing their bit to win possession and create something, but the threat of Manneh meant he was often doubled-marked as Stockton simply stifled the Millers.

The home side took the lead four minutes before half time.  Michael Fowler got away on the left and his shot was cleared off the line superbly by Sargent, but Butterworth reacted quickest to the loose ball and stabbed home from close range.

Shortly afterwards only a wonderful Brown block prevented Kevin Hayes from doubling Stockton’s lead before the break.

Carlton brought on Davie early in the second half as they looked to get back into the game but Stockton kept up the pressure and Adegbola had to clear off the line after a run and shot by Hayes.

Carlton then pushed forward and Hardwick headed over the bar after Hylton and Manneh had won possession before the striker put another effort just wide.  That was Hardwick’s last action as he was replaced by Jebbison and moments later Jebbison and Manneh combined for the latter to hit a stinging shot which drew an excellent diving save from Harker.

Two minutes later Carlton’s task was made all but impossible as Stockton scored again.  Hayes cut in from the right and hit a shot which drew another fine save from Annan, but once again Butterworth reacted quickest to the scraps and converted the rebound.

Still Carlton kept trying and Howes was denied by a superb tackle after some fine work by Hylton, while Harker made arguably his best save of match, keeping out what looked a certain headed own goal from Shane Henry following a Durow throw-in.  The follow up saw Manneh cross to Freeman but once again Harker saved.

Carlton then forced a corner and Manneh’s delivery caused all sorts of problems, with Freeman not connecting fully with a loose ball and Stockton hacking the ball away off the line.

But the home side saw out the final minutes of the game in relative comfort to book their play in the final for the third year in succession.

The full Carlton squad came across to the raucous travelling support at the end to thank them for their efforts on the night and over the season.  The players fell just short on the night to the better team, but they can be justifiably proud of what they have achieved and the progress they have made in just 12 months.  Onwards and upwards.

Carlton Town: F Annan, D Adegbola, L Durow, D Brown, D Freeman, G Tempest (N Davie 54), L Manneh, K Sargent, A Hardwick (M Jebbison 64), A Howes, N Hylton.  Unused subs: N Liburd-Hines, P Dearle, L Bateman

Goals: Glen Butterworth 41, 68

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: Dan Brown

Att: 1637

Paviors bring season to a close with annual President’s match against CLW Dragons

Gedling Eye
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Paviors bring season to a close with annual President’s match against CLW Dragons

Paviors Senior season ends with the annual President’s match, when for the third season a Paviors XV take on the CLW Dragons at Burntstump Hill.

CLW Dragons are made up of past players and associates of Carlton le Willows School. Men, who as boys represented the school at various levels, and the occasional players who have other links with the school.

The match holds a special place in the heart of Pavior’s President Neil Kendrick as he is a former head of 6th Form at the school.

Neil Kendrick said “It never ceases to amaze me that former players are prepared to turn out and always give an excellent account of themselves, even though some of them rarely play these days. Hopefully the game will be well supported and that the sun will shine”.

PHOTO: D Turner

The kick off is at 3pm but prior to the game there are lots of activities and the day promises to be a great day out for all, young and old. There will be an ice cream van, the kitchen will be serving food and the bar will be open. The fun commences at 1pm.

Paviors Rugby Club play at Burntstump Hill, Arnold, NG5 8PQ and the club runs over twenty teams.

New players are always welcome – girls, boys, men & women, there is a team for all.

Further information about the club including contact details can be found on http://www.paviorsrfc.co.uk/ .

Gedling borough weather Thursday, May 2

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling borough weather Thursday, May 2

The Met Office forecast that overnight showers will quickly clear with a rather warm day of sunny spells after mist and fog patches clear. Chance of heavy and thundery afternoon showers developing. Cloud will spread inland late afternoon. Maximum temperature 19 °C.

Becoming overcast as cloud continues to spread inland. Showers easing. Outbreaks of rain and drizzle. Risk of heavy and thundery showers in the east by dawn Minimum temperature 10 °C.

Tomorrow is expected to be cloudy and unsettled with bands of heavy showers moving west, thundery at times. Showers easing Friday afternoon with a broad area of rain and drizzle then arriving from the south. Maximum temperature 14 °C.

Police ‘hotspot patrols’ to be rolled out in Arnold town centre after £1 million Home Office funding boost

David Bratton
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Police ‘hotspot patrols’ to be rolled out in Arnold town centre after £1 million Home Office funding boost

A £1 million funding boost from the Home Office is set to enhance police efforts in combating anti-social behaviour (ASB) and serious violence in Arnold town centre.

The investment, known as the Hotspot Response Fund, will go towards increasing uniform patrols across the town later this year.

Nottinghamshire Police have previously been awarded funding to target serious violence, but this new investment will now have an added focus of targeting anti-social behaviour.

The high-vis foot patrols will be deployed to 18 areas in Notts which have the highest rates of anti-social behaviour and serious violence offences.

Officers will spend dedicated patrol time to engage with communities and provide a visible presence during peak times for crime in each hotspot.

PICTURED: A police van in Arnold

Some of the areas also getting hotspot patrols are Old Market Square, the Lace Market, Hyson Green, Hucknall East and Newark.

The project aims to reduce the number of weapon-enabled offences and reports of anti-social behaviour which includes drug misuse and criminal damage.

The money will also go towards funding patrols for local authority staff such as community safety wardens and Business Improvement District (BID) patrol staff, as well as towards a dedicated youth outreach worker for areas that have particularly high levels of anti-social behaviour.

Areas will also be able to access money to help them with improvements to their community and address complex problems.

Superintendent Heather Maelor, head of the Prevention Hub and project lead, said: “We welcome this additional funding from the Home Office to help us tackle serious violence, anti-social behaviour and reduce offending in these areas.

“It’s a top priority for us as a force to tackle anti-social behaviour and serious violence in Nottinghamshire. A focus of our work to solve these issues is to put in place solutions that provide long lasting improvements to areas, beyond the terms of the funding.

“This funding will help provide additional officer time on the street to ensure residents and their communities are kept safe whilst they are out and about in the county.

“We are looking forward to working with our partners including councils across the county and the Business Improvement District (BID) with this multi-agency approach.

“We know that anti-social behaviour is a key concern for residents and this funding will help us address the issues affecting our communities.”

Public help needed to find new Aldi locations in Gedling borough

Gedling Eye
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Public help needed to find new Aldi locations in Gedling borough

Discount retailer Aldi is calling on the nation to help it identify where new stores are needed the most.

The areas which have the most suggestions will then be considered as part of Aldi’s commitment to build hundreds of new stores across Britain.

The retailer currently has more than 1,000 stores and is committed to continuing towards its long-term target of over 1,500 stores across the UK.

Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: “We want to make high-quality food accessible to all, but there are still some areas that either don’t have an Aldi or have potential for more stores.

“We’ve identified some key places where there is demand for more stores already, but now we are calling on the public to share their views. This will be used to help inform our property search over the coming years.” 

Those wanting to put their town forward to be considered should contact the supermarket by emailing NextNewStore@Aldi.co.uk, clearly stating their postcode and why they believe their area needs a new Aldi store.

Aldi is asking for suggestions to be submitted by 31st May 2024, with the supermarket planning to update customers on the results and its latest priority ‘wish list’ later this year.

For more information on Aldi’s nationwide site requirements, visit: www.aldi.co.uk/about-aldi/property/required-towns

Developer apologises for ‘incorrect’ native species list on info boards at new eco park near Netherfield

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Developer apologises for ‘incorrect’ native species list on info boards at new eco park near Netherfield

A developer has apologised after it was revealed a welcome board at a new eco park in Netherfield contains incorrect information about native species using the green space.

The board at the entrance to Rivendell Eco Park displays information about what wildlife you can expect to see during a visit.

The boards and eco park were created by housing developer Persimmon Homes with support from Gedling Borough Council during construction of the new Rivendell estate off Teal Close.

But the boards have been mocked online by wildlife experts who say some of the species listed ‘don’t exist’ or are native to other countries.

Wildlife expert and trustee of Gedling Conservation Trust Mark Glover, who helps manage the neighbouring Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve pointed out the errors to Gedling Eye.

Mr Glover pointed out that the lapwing featured in the display ‘certainly was not a UK lapwing’ and ‘is a totally different species’.

A list of the wildlife you can expect to see during a visit to Rivendell Eco Park

He said there was ‘no such thing’ as a Coal Marsh tit – with the coal and marsh tit being two different species

He said that while some of the other species are native, they are ‘very unlikely’ to ever to be seen at the park, like the pied flycatcher.

Mr Glover said that the Trust had been interested in getting involved in the creation of the park but said there had been ‘little interest’

He said: “We have tried to play a part in the site for the last seven years but the fact is nether Persimmon or GBC have any interest. This is a tragedy and a missed opportunity as the site could have great synergistic value as neighbour to the Netherfield Lagoons.

Gedling Eye contacted both Persimmon Homes and Gedling Borough Council about whether the sign would now be corrected.

A spokesman for Gedling Borough Council confirmed that the board has been created by Persimmon Homes ‘without any involvement’ from Gedling Borough Council. 

They added: “Our understanding is that Persimmon are aware that the board is incorrect and they are going to change it.”

A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes said: “We are aware of an error that has occurred in relation to some watch species listed on the welcome boards at our Teal Close development, and would like to apologise for any confusion this may have caused.

“A revision is currently being prepared – in consultation with local residents – in order to address this. It is our intention to implement these changes in the coming weeks.”

Exciting Gift Ideas for Outdoor Enthusiasts in the UK

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Exciting Gift Ideas for Outdoor Enthusiasts in the UK

For those who live life out in nature, unwrapping an awesome new gift that enhances their next outdoor adventure is like receiving a delightful trail map leading to fresh thrills and memories. If you’re looking to surprise the outdoor enthusiast in your life with a present that delivers an experience as breathtaking as a summit vista, you’re in the right place.

A Lofty Outdoor Experience: Hot Air Ballooning

For a true “peak” experience and panoramic views that will take their breath away, treat them to the magical gift of a hot air balloon ride! Gently drifting over the UK’s picturesque countryside in a bright, colourful balloon is an unforgettable way to experience the outdoors from an utterly unique vantage point. Many rides even include a celebratory glass of champagne upon landing.

Camping and Hiking Gear That Inspires  

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Photography Gear to Capture Their Journey

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Wearable Tech for Outdoor Performance

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Need for Outdoor Speed: Supercar Driving

Does the outdoor lover you’re shopping for also have a feverish passion for adrenaline and extreme driving excitement? If so, buckle them in for a white-knuckle supercar experience they’ll never forget! Options range from riding a Ferrari with a professional driver at breakneck speeds to taking the wheel themselves and unleashing the full mind-blowing power and handling of a racetrack-bred exotic speed machine. Talk about outdoor thrills!  

Relaxation Essentials for Well-Earned Peace

After a rewarding yet gruelling day spent exploring the great outdoors, your cherished adventurer will thoroughly appreciate receiving gifts that allow them to unwind in deliciously soothing comfort.

Let Their Imagination Roam With Books and Guides

Surprise the outdoor enthusiast in your life with captivating books and guides to spark their imagination about unexplored realms waiting to be discovered just over the next ridgeline.

A Bounty of Gift Ideas 

From glamping and backpacking essentials to cutting-edge tech and photography gear guaranteed to amplify every outdoor pursuit, this seemingly endless assortment of gift ideas promises to deliver an unforgettable smile to any nature lover’s face.

For even more exciting gift ideas for adventure lovers, check out WonderDays. As one of the best experience day gift companies in the UK, they offer a wide range of thrilling experiences and outdoor adventures that are sure to delight any outdoor enthusiast.

Whether you’re shopping for an experienced thrill-seeker who lives for extreme challenges or a casual weekend warrior who simply craves peaceful escapes into the UK’s wondrous wildernesses, you’re sure to find that perfect open-air outfit right here. 

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