Extended hours and new vehicles for Victoria Retail Park bus service due to increased demand

Improvements to a bus route servicing Victoria Retail Park in Netherfield are set to be introduced next month, with extended hours and new vehicles being promised.

Nottingham City Transport’s (NCT) Red Line 50 bus service will begin running later into the evenings and seven days a week.

Nottingham City Council has secured funding as part of the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan.

The 50, which currently runs from Victoria Retail Park to the city through Colwick Industrial Estate and along Daleside Road, will continue running later into the evening and run seven days a week with a new Sunday service from December 3.

In recent years, the industrial area along Daleside Road between Lady Bay Retail Park and Colwick Park has seen major redevelopment, with a large amount of residential properties already built, and more under construction – so demand for buses in this area has risen and the council say it will continue to do so.

Angela Kandola, Nottingham City Council’s portfolio holder for transport said: “Five years ago we completed a major upgrade in Daleside Road, installing cycle and bus lanes along the entire length to improve transport options to the east of the city.

“Since then, we have welcomed new housing developments into the area, with more under construction. These residents deserve a good, reliable bus service and I’m pleased we’re able to support the expansion of the NCT 50 to help people access employment and enjoy the full range of Nottingham’s leisure, retail and night time economy.”

That is not the only news for the 50, as another pot of Government Funding the ZEBRA (Zero emission bus regional areas) scheme has supported NCT to purchase 48 new Yutong electric single deck buses – which should be in service early in the new year.

The 50 will be one of the first routes to benefit from these new buses, which boast no tailpipe emissions and come with improved passenger features, including air-conditioning. In addition, it is hoped that the 50 service will expand still further past Victoria Retail Park and connect the hundreds of new houses in the Rivendell estate.

David Astill, managing director from Nottingham City Transport, said: “Red Line 50 provides an important link to the many industrial and retail units on the east side of the city and we are excited to be enhancing this service in early 2024 with the first of our zero-emission electric single deck buses.

“With the increase in residential properties on and around Daleside Road, the Bus Service Improvement Plan funding will help support and establish the new evening and Sunday service on this route.”

Gedling student shortlisted for prestigious Nottinghamshire youth award

Nottinghamshire County Council have announced that student, Megan Towers is one of seven inspirational Nottinghamshire young people who have overcome severe health challenges or go the extra mile for others that will be recognised at a prestigious youth awards evening later this month.

Megan has already been named as the district winner for Gedling for Nottinghamshire County Council’s Outstanding Achievement 4Uth Award for 2023 and will be honoured at the annual final at County Hall on Friday 24 November – where an overall winner will be announced.

The 4Uth Awards are a County Council initiative to celebrate the achievements of young people across the county.

Megan, 15, deals with challenging health issues with dignity and bravery and has become a positive mentor for her peers at The Loco young people’s centre in Netherfield.

She has grown in confidence since attending the Spotlight Theatre Group in Netherfield, which has led to her performing three roles in a production of Matilda at the Nottingham Arts Theatre.

Megan also plays a key role in a dance project at the young people’s centre, where she encourages other youngsters to take part.

Andy Foulds, a youth worker at The Loco young people’s centre, explains: “Megan benefits a lot from discussing her challenges with youth support workers.

“I have known her for several years now and her development brings me great happiness professionally. The youth club is a great outlet for her.

“Megan continues to face challenges in her life, but I am impressed at the mature, considerate, and helpful young person she is becoming.

“She continues to develop and, as we approach her exams year, this award would give her a great boost.

“We will work alongside her in offering support when she makes her post-16 choices, which seem to be heading down the road of performing arts.

“It’s not easy being a teenager at the best of times but Megan faces up to things with a sense of humour, determination, and self-sufficiency. She is an inspiration.”

Councillor Tracey Taylor, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, and council chairman, Cllr John Ogle, will join around 100 guests for the glittering event which is now in its 12th year.

Family and friends of each of the finalists and members of the youth service will also be in attendance, where videos charting the inspirational stories of all seven young people will be showcased.

Cllr Taylor said: “The 4Uth Awards are a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate this amazing group of young people from across Nottinghamshire.

“Our finalists can be very proud of what they have achieved and the hurdles they have overcome growing up.  I am really looking forward to meeting all of them at the awards evening and hearing about their remarkable stories.”

There were around 70 young people nominated – with entries received from friends, family members, youth workers and people who work in a range of voluntary, public sector and other organisations.

Judging panels in each district decided the winners from three nominations in each area, and a separate judging panel assessed the final seven. 

The full list of district winners from around Nottinghamshire are as follows:

  • Broxtowe – Leah Choleton – nominated by Paul Bailey  
  • Bassetlaw – Edward Robinson – nominated by Heather Cowley
  • Ashfield – Shayden West – nominated by Zoe Taylor
  • Rushcliffe – Jamie Thorley – nominated by Emma Betteridge
  • Mansfield – Mia Louise Smith – nominated by Jane Penistone
  • Gedling – Megan Towers – nominated by Andy Foulds
  • Newark and Sherwood – Reece Martin – nominated by Laura Burrows

The full release from Nottinghamshire County Council including information on all district winners can be accessed HERE.

Notts given multi-million pound ‘uplift’ from cancelled HS2 savings to ‘tackle scourge of potholes’ on county’s roads

Nottinghamshire roads have been given a portion of a £959m Government fund with two ‘uplift’ payments of £2,369,000 for 2023/24 and 2024/25.

The boost from redirected HS2 funding to resurface roads will be added to existing funding allocation for the ten years from 2023/24 of £138,443,000.

It is part of a long-term plan announced today (17) to resurface 5,000 miles of roads across the country, mending potholes and improving crumbling road surfaces.

Local highway authorities in the East Midlands, including in Leicestershire, Derby, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, will each receive a share of the £959 million which they can use to identify what local roads are in most need of repair and deliver immediate improvements for communities and residents.

Potholes Gedling

Across the East Midlands, local highway authorities will receive £16.4 million this financial year, followed by a further £16.4 million for 2024/2025, with the rest of the funding allocated through to 2034.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “For too long politicians have shied away from taking the right long-term decisions to make life easier for hardworking families – tackling the scourge of potholes being a prime example.

“This investment will pave the road for better and safer journeys for millions of people across the country and put an end to the blight of nuisance potholes.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Most people travel by road and potholes can cause misery for motorists, from expensive vehicle repairs to bumpy, slow, and dangerous journeys.

“Today’s biggest ever funding uplift for local road improvements is a victory for all road users, who will enjoy smoother, faster and safer trips.”

According to the RAC, smoother, well-maintained road surfaces could save drivers up to £440 each in expensive vehicle repairs from pothole damage, helping motorists keep more of the cash in their pocket.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “Drivers’ biggest bugbear of all is the poor condition of local roads, so the fact the Government has found a significant additional pot of revenue should give councils the certainty of funding they need to plan proper long-term road maintenance, something we have been calling for many years.

“We hope local authorities will use the money in the most effective way possible by resurfacing the very worst roads, keeping those in reasonable condition in better states for longer through surface dressing, and filling potholes as permanently as possible wherever necessary.

“This should in time go a considerable way to bringing our roads back to a fit-for-purpose state and saving drivers hundreds of pounds in the process from not having to fork out for frustrating repairs to their vehicles.”

Local authorities will now be required to publish information on their websites regularly explaining how they are spending the funding in their area.

Edmund King, AA president, said: “Perilous roads blighted by potholes are the number one concern for drivers and a major issue for bikers, cyclists and pedestrians. So far this year The AA has attended more than 450,000 pothole-related breakdowns. The damage caused can be a huge financial burden for drivers but is also a major safety risk for those on two wheels.

“The £8.3 billion plan can make a considerable difference in bringing our roads back to the standards which road users expect, especially if councils use the cash efficiently to resurface our streets. As well as safer roads, eliminating potholes gives confidence to people wanting to cycle and instils pride of place within local communities.”  

See the latest Gedling borough planning applications – w/e 17/11/23

These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council this week.

A quiet week at the planning department as 9 applications were submitted to Gedling Borough Council and validated over the last week.

Here is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers validated this week (w/e 17/11/23) and will now decide on. 

More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE.


Replace existing dormer on front elevation with larger dormer; construct balcony on front elevation (resubmission of applicaiton 2023/0564) 

106 Bridle Road Burton Joyce Nottinghamshire NG14 5FP.  Ref. No: 2023/0805 


Single storey rear extension 

89 Kenrick Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6EZ.  Ref. No: 2023/0799 


A single-storey rear extension and replacement of existing tiles on existing garage roof 

136 Main Street Woodborough Nottinghamshire NG14 6DD.  Ref. No: 2023/0785 


Advertisement consent for illuminated sign 

Carlton Community Church Lowater Street Carlton Nottinghamshire NG4 1JJ.  Ref. No: 2023/0777 


External insulation render finish to the front elevation and rear elevations and associated works 

43 Balmoral Road Colwick Nottinghamshire NG4 2GF.  Ref. No: 2023/0776 


Installation of solar panels on shed 

39 Haywood Road Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6AB.  Ref. No: 2023/0773


Reconfiguration of the external appearance of the dwelling 

385 Mapperley Plains Arnold Nottinghamshire NG3 5RU.  Ref. No: 2023/0774 


Single storey rear extension and pitched roof over garage. 

23 Roseleigh Avenue Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6FJ.  Ref. No: 2023/0746 


Conversion of garage into a bedsit / granny annexe with garage door being altered to an ordinary front door and a window inserted at the front of the building 

7 Oakleigh Avenue Mapperley Nottinghamshire NG3 6GA.  Ref. No: 2023/0683 


Exploring the UK’s Motorhome Craze: A Comprehensive Guide

Motorhome adventures have captured the imagination of travellers across the United Kingdom, sparking a significant rise in their popularity. These mobile havens blend the comfort of home with the thrill of travel, offering a unique way to explore the landscapes of the UK. Motorhomes, essentially homes on wheels, are equipped with living, sleeping, and often cooking facilities, encapsulating the essence of a portable residence.

What Drives the Popularity of Motorhomes in the UK?

The Appeal of Flexibility and Freedom

Motorhomes have become synonymous with freedom and flexibility, attracting a diverse range of travel enthusiasts. They offer:

The liberty to explore remote locations
An escape from the confines of fixed itinerary travel
The convenience of carrying home comforts on the road

The Impact of COVID-19 on Travel Preferences

The COVID-19 pandemic revolutionized travel norms, pivoting the focus towards safer, self-contained forms of travel. Motorhomes emerged as a preferred choice, offering a way to travel while maintaining control over one’s environment.

Economic Factors Influencing Motorhome Ownership

Owning a motorhome also presents a cost-effective travel solution. Key economic benefits include:

Reduced spending on hotels and dining out
Long-term savings for frequent travellers
The potential for rental income when not in use

How Do Motorhomes Benefit Travellers?

Convenience and Comfort

Motorhomes are designed to maximize convenience and comfort on the road. They often include:

Customizable living spaces
On-board entertainment systems
Climate control features

Versatility in Travel and Accommodation

Motorhomes cater to various travel styles, from weekend getaways to extended tours, offering a versatile solution for different traveller needs.

Exploring the Types of Motorhomes Available

Motorhomes for sale come in various forms, each suited to different travel needs:

Class A: Luxurious, spacious, ideal for long-term travel
Class B: Compact, versatile, great for couples
Class C: Balance of comfort and manouverability, suitable for families

Campervans and Conversion Vans

Campervans and conversion vans offer a more nimble alternative, ideal for solo travellers and couples, perfect for shorter trips and navigating narrow roads.

The Social and Community Aspect of Motorhoming

Courtesy of OMC Motorhomes

Motorhome Clubs and Gatherings

The motorhome community is vibrant and welcoming, with clubs and gatherings fostering a sense of belonging. Popular activities include:

Social meet-ups and rallies
Shared travel experiences and tips
Community-led conservation initiatives

Online Communities and Resources

The digital age has further united motorhome enthusiasts, with forums and online resources being central to the community. Key platforms offer:

Advice on motorhome maintenance and travel planning
Opportunities to connect with fellow travellers
Access to exclusive motorhome events and deals

Licensing and Regulations in the UK

Owning and operating a motorhome in the UK comes with specific legal requirements, including:

Appropriate driving licenses
Vehicle safety and emission standards
Insurance and tax obligations

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safety of a motorhome. Essential upkeep tips include:

Seasonal checks and servicing
Internal system maintenance
Exterior care and protection

The Environmental Impact of Motorhomes

Eco-Friendly Practices in Motorhoming

Sustainable motorhoming practices are increasingly important, with recommendations like:

Using eco-friendly products
Reducing energy consumption
Engaging in responsible waste disposal

Innovations in Eco-Friendly Motorhomes

Advancements in motorhome designs are making them more eco-friendly, with features such as:

Solar power systems
Improved fuel efficiency
Sustainable materials in construction

Motorhome Travel Destinations in the UK

Courtesy of OMC Motorhomes

The UK offers a plethora of destinations perfectly suited for motorhome travel, from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the serene beaches of Cornwall.

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations

Exploring lesser-known destinations offers a unique experience, with hidden gems revealing the country’s diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage.

Purchasing a Motorhome: What to Consider

New vs Used Motorhomes

Weighing the pros and cons of new versus used motorhomes is crucial in making an informed decision. Considerations include:

Budget constraints
Desired features and amenities
Long-term value and depreciation

Financial Considerations

Understanding the financial implications is key to a wise investment. Costs to consider include:

Purchase price and financing options
Operational and maintenance expenses
Insurance and storage costs

Tips for First-Time Motorhome Buyers

Navigating the motorhome market can be daunting for first-timers. Essential tips include:

Researching and comparing different models
Understanding the importance of layout and size
Recognizing the significance of a thorough vehicle inspection

Essential Features to Look For

A checklist of essential features helps in selecting the right motorhome, focusing on:

Reliability and performance
Space optimization and storage solutions
Comfort and living amenities

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Awareness of common mistakes can prevent costly errors, such as:

Overlooking hidden costs
Underestimating the importance of a test drive
Ignoring long-term maintenance requirements

The Future of Motorhoming in the UK

Courtesy of OMC Motorhomes

Looking ahead, the motorhome industry in the UK shows promising growth, driven by:

Evolving traveller preferences
Technological advancements in motorhome design
Increasing awareness of sustainable travel options

Conclusion

Motorhome travel in the UK presents a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and community. As this comprehensive guide demonstrates, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a curious newcomer, the world of motorhomes offers a rich and varied experience, full of opportunities for exploration, connection, and discovery.

Gedling Borough Council to lobby for better flood defences after villages were devastated by Storm Babet

Gedling Borough Council will appeal to the government for better flood protection after villages were devastated in the wake of Storm Babet last month.

Woodborough and Lambley saw some of the worst damage in the borough, with streets flooded and residents forced to evacuate their homes.

Political parties came together during an emotional full council meeting on Wednesday (November 15) to urge the government to invest in the area.

Deputy Leader Councillor Michael Payne (Lab) introduced a motion to lobby all agencies responsible for flood defences.

“Just because Woodborough and Lambley are small, rural villages, doesn’t mean they don’t deserve protection from flooding,” he said.

“I welcome £5,000 government grants for people to defend their properties, but that just moves the water onto the next home.

“We need major investment schemes to protect these hotspots.”

He added that investment could achieve results, saying: “£27million has been spent in Lowdham and £70m in Mansfield, and it will probably work.”

Councillor Helen Greensmith (Con), who represented many of the communities worst affected, told of the impact.

“To say the villages are hard-hit is an understatement,” she said.

“The whole of Woodborough’s Main Street was completely flooded – up to three feet deep in places. It was like a river.

“I’ve since had a child come up to me and say: ‘It’s raining – does that mean it will flood again?”

Councillor Dave Gibbons (Ind) described “panic in the local shop” as Bestwood village was cut off by water.

Councillor Paul Hughes (Lib Dem) said: “These are not isolated events – this area has suffered several times in the recent past, and will continue to suffer unless something is done.  One-in-100-year events are now happening every five or ten years.

“We need to rethink how me manage the land so rivers can cope, such as planting trees and expanding wetlands.”

Councillor Michael Adams (Con) urged local MPs to speak to have conversations in Westminster and “make sure money is coming to Gedling.”

The motion was passed unanimously.

A meeting has been called next week with all agencies to find practical solutions to the problems.

A spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said: “The significant amount of funding put into flood defences demonstrates how seriously flooding is taken with over 374,000 homes better protected since 2015, and we’re going even further by delivering a record £5.2 billion investment to better protect hundreds of thousands more.”

Where to see Christmas lights switch-on events in Gedling borough

Christmas will soon be here, and there are a number of light switch-on events to mark the start of the festive period.

There will be plenty of events across the borough to enjoy, with a variety of festivities including markets, funfairs and live entertainment.

Whether you live in Arnold, Calverton, Carlton, Mapperley, Netherfield or surrounding villages, there are plenty of Yuletide celebrations on offer. We have picked out the area’s events we know about so far.

Which one are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments section below.

Arnold

PICTURED: Arnold lights switch-on

The Christmas Light Switch On takes place on Friday, November 24, from 4pm, outside the AMP building at the former Arnold Market site. The event will feature performances from local schools and choirs, a lantern parade, street entertainers and even a visit from Santa.

An indoor craft fair will be open next to the event, at Arnold Methodist Church, with stalls selling items such as cards, festive food and gifts.

The Christmas lights will be switched on by the Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Julie Najuk at 6.30pm.

Burton Joyce

Burton Joyce’s lights switch-on event is set to take place on Saturday, December 2 between 3.30-6pm.

The lights are being switched on by special guest paralympic athlete Richard Whitehead MBE at 5.15pm along with Santa.

There will also be a Christmas fair, brass bands, food and children’s entertainment.

Calverton

Calverton Christmas 2023 light switch-on will take place on Friday, December 1 in the village centre.

There will be food, drink and a fun fair with ferris wheel.

Calverton lights switch on (IMAGE: Facebook)

Carlton

Carlton’s lights switch on takes place on Wednesday, November 29 from 5.00pm to 8.00pm. Santa will be making an appearance as well as photo opportunities with a Christmas storm troope

The Christmas Lights will be turned on by Gedling Mayor, Julie Najuk and event poster design competition winner, Amelia, age eight at 6.00pm.

There will be dance and singing displays on a stage from 6.15pm to 8.30pm which will be located in the bottom end of StandHill car park next to Mayfield Road. There will be performances from Simply Dance, Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama (MADD), local acoustic singers, Nottingham Community Choir and headlined by local star Mark Howard, the Runner Up on The Voice.

Gedling Village

Gedling Village Christmas light switch on takes place at 6pm at the Miners Memorial, Main Road, Gedling at 6pm on December 1.

After the switch on, there visit from Santa at All Hallows Church and there will also be refreshments available.

Lambley

Lambley’s Christmas lights will be switched on during a festive event on Friday, November 24 from 6pm at the corner of Catfoot Lane and Main Street.

There will be mulled wine, a festive BBQ, live music and a visit from Santa.

Mapperley

The lights in Mapperley will be switched on at an event taking place between 2-6 pm on Sunday, November 26 in the Precinct.

The Mayor of Gedling Julie Najuk will be switching on the lights at 5pm.

There will also be choirs, dancers, a brass band, local artists, craft stalls and charity stalls from across the community. Santa will also be there with his sleigh.

Netherfield

Netherfield Christmas Light switch on takes place from 4pm on Friday, December 1.

The Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Julie Najuk will be attending the event where there will be performances from Netherfield Primary School Choir and Carlton Brass Band.
Carlton Rotary Club will be attending, joined by Santa on his sleigh 

After the switch on, attendees are invited to join Santa at the St George’s Centre where the event will continue. 

New £83k kitchen at Arnold’s Killisick Junior School opened by former pupil Tom Randall MP

Gedling MP Tom Randall this week cut the ribbon to officially open a new £83k kitchen at his former junior school in Arnold.

To celebrate the opening of the new facility at Killisick Junior School, pupils enjoyed a specially chosen menu for a week.

The funding for the project came from the school’s multi-academy trust, The Flying High Partnership and in all, renovations cost of £83,000.

MP Randall said “It’s always great to come back to my old junior school and I am grateful for the invitation to return.

“I have lots of happy memories here, although every time I come back its always slightly smaller than I remember!

“It’s great that The Flying High Partnership, the school’s multi-academy trust has invested the funding to build the new kitchen and I am looking forward to chatting to kitchen staff in what is now a flexible and modernised space.

“I am sure the new kitchens will serve the children of Killisick well for many generations to come. Of course, making sure that children receive the nutrition and a healthy hot meal they need to thrive is of paramount importance; it assists in their education and wellbeing.  It’s lovely to see the changes taking place and I can see how popular it is after speaking to children today, -they are so excited at the news and what is going on at the school.”

Joining guests at the opening were pupils from Killisick’s School Parliament and chair of Governors, Mrs Rachel Makey.

Pupil Matilda Handy, Year 6, said she was excited to see the new kitchen. “I think the new kitchen will make everything so much nicer for everybody at the school. Children need to eat well to be healthy and to be able to concentrate. The people who work in the kitchen will also be happy as it looks really nice to work in.”

Matilda, who has become well known in the local area was recently awarded a British Citizen Youth Award for her creation of the ‘Letters to heaven’ post-boxes. She collected her award from the Palace of Westminster in October in recognition of her kind idea, which encourages people to post notes, or write down their thoughts about loved ones they miss. The white ‘Letters to heaven’ post-boxes, can be found at various locations including one at Gedling Crematorium.   

Richard Jones is the new Headteacher at the school

He said: “Our former kitchen was in need of a total revamp, and we are delighted that through funding by the Flying High Partnership we now have a fantastic kitchen to cater for the children in our school community.

“Whilst our kitchen staff have always produced fantastic meals, we are delighted that they now have new facilities to support them in their valuable work, both now and for future generations of children of Killisick Junior School.”

Jill Mitchell is a catering assistant at the school, and she said the catering team where thrilled with the new facilities.  

She said: “We are delighted with the new kitchen, particularly our new dishwasher which replaced our sterilising station. Hopefully this will make things a lot easier for us.

“The new kitchen is so bright, it has a non-slip floor, a new pantry and equipment and everything in it is easily cleaned. We think it is going to make a huge difference to the school.”

Anniversary celebrations for historic Woodborough Hall

Woodborough Hall has celebrated it’s first anniversary of re-opening under new ownership.

The celebrations on November 10 marked a year of celebrations, weddings, baby showers, parties, wakes, business meetings and events following a complete refurbishment that brought the historic Grade II* Listed building back to life.

Jenny Dickie, Director and General Manager said “It has been a challenge, but after a lot of hard work, we have been so delighted with the response from our customers and their numerous five-star reviews.

“This resulted in recent further recognition when Trip Advisor gave us their Travellers Choice Award – putting us in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide.

“Whilst delighted with the success of our first year, we will not rest on our laurels and it is our intention to continue to make each visit special and memorable, and we look forward to welcoming returning and new visitors in the coming year”.

The building, owned and operated by Kidd Hospitality can trace its origins back to the seventh century and has an illustrious past with links to William the Conqueror, Mansfield Parkyns and Sir George Mansfield Smith-Cummings, the first head of MI6.

Woodborough Hall is now open daily with coffee, drinks and light lunch available and the Afternoon tea experience in particular has been very popular over the past year.

There is also evening dining on Friday and Saturday evening available with an imaginative a la carte menu featuring local produce matched by a carefully selected wine list.

There are also five refurbished bedrooms available for an overnight stay for those who want to extend their visit.

Further information about Woodborough Hall including contact details can be found on the Woodborough Hall website HERE.

Shouted at, spat on, threatened or hit at work – two in five shop workers now face weekly abuse from customers

New research released this week has revealed that attacks on shop workers are on the rise with two out of five now experiencing abuse from customers each week.

Staff reported being shouted at, spat on, threatened, or hit on a weekly basis in a survey of more than 1,600 staff from 200 companies by the Retail Trust charity.

Almost half (47%) said they now feel unsafe at work as the retail crime epidemic continues.

66% said they feel anxious or stressed about going to work and 42% are considering quitting their jobs or leaving retail.

When considering the reasons behind the rise in retail crime, over half (56%) said the rising cost of living was to blame while 64% said confronting a shoplifter had caused abuse.

Two thirds want stricter penalties for customers who abuse shop staff and a third believe police should be taking more action.

Last month, the government unveiled a plan that will see a new Organised Retail Crime capability formed within the Operation Opal unit, funded by Project Pegasus – a partnership between 13 retailers including John Lewis, Co-op, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose

This will see a new dedicated intelligence team created, with retailers trained on what information and intelligence to share with policing.

Facial recognition software will also be used across the public and private sectors.

However, Co-op warned that actions must speak louder than words for the retail crime epidemic to end.

Separately, the Co-op said it recorded 300,000 incidents of shoplifting, abuse, violence and anti-social behaviour so far this year – an increase of more than 40% on last year.

The retailer noted more than 1,100 physical assaults on its store workers and more than 36,000 instances of anti-social behaviour and abuse, as it called for police to do more to tackle violence in shops.

Managing director Matt Hood said: “We urgently need to see it in action in our stores, so the desperate calls to the police from my front line colleagues are responded to”.

Co-op director of public affairs Paul Gerrard added: “Crime in many communities is increasing, and it is known that repeat and prolific offenders and local organised criminal gangs are driving serious incidents of brazen and violent theft in stores.

“Co-op continues to invest significantly in keeping colleagues and stores safe, as we know this isn’t a victimless crime, as my store colleagues who have been verbally abused and had knives and syringes pulled on them can vouch for.

“Respecting the shop workers who are just doing their job, serving our communities every day, is a simple but extremely important common courtesy.”

Chris Brook Carter, chief executive of the Retail Trust said the situation was ‘simply unacceptable’.

He said: “Thousands of shop workers are contacting us to say they now fear for their safety.”

“Every day we’re hearing from people who have been shouted at, spat on, threatened or hit at work, sometimes several times a week, so we’re very concerned. One person told us they were hit around the head by a shoplifter with a metal basket, another was knocked out cold by an angry customer, and this is on top of the vile insults and threats handed out on an all-too-regular basis.

“As a country and a society, we must get better at bringing an end to this terrible behaviour, making sure every incident is recorded and acted upon, and above all, ensuring that our colleagues across the country get the protection and support they need.

“Our message at the Retail Trust is clear. Abuse is never part of anyone’s job and if you’re a retail worker encountering abuse, threats or violence, please do report this to your manager and call the Retail Trust’s wellbeing helpline if you need any support dealing with your experiences.”