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Increase to school meal prices expected from Nottinghamshire County Council after challenges fail

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Increase to school meal prices expected from Nottinghamshire County Council after challenges fail

Attempts to stop changes which could see the price of school meals rising across Nottinghamshire have failed.

The daily price the county council charges schools for the meals was set to increase by 40p from £2.55 to £2.95 each.

The Conservative-run council says it’s been forced to make the hike due to rising costs of food, energy and staffing.

It will be down to individual schools to determine whether to pass the cost increases on to families. Free school meals for children who qualify will not be affected.

School meals

The council’s Labour group and Independent Alliance attempted to ‘call in’ the decision last month – meaning it would be subject to further debate – claiming there had been errors with the decision making.

However, both challenges are now confirmed to have failed.

The opposition groups said there hadn’t been enough advance notice of the rise and that it had been planned without a consultation,

There was also concern about whether it would harm poorest families most.

A report will go before the council’s Overview Committee on Thursday (November 23) rejecting claims that the council had broken any decision-making rules.

It says there is no legal requirement to hold consultations – although there were informal discussions with schools – and the correct procedures were followed.

The response adds children who receive free school meals wouldn’t be financially affected.

The report says: “The duty sits with schools to provide school meals, not the council.

“Schools are at liberty to choose how they provide school meals and how much they charge parents who are not in receipt of free school meals, and could choose not to pass the costs on to parents in full or in part.”

Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Councillor John Cottee said: “The Council’s decision-making and scrutiny processes have been followed entirely correctly in relation to this decision, meaning it can now be implemented. 

“A letter will be sent to schools very shortly confirming the date from which this change to the price of a council-supplied school meal will take effect.

“We gave very careful consideration to this matter before reaching a decision, but in light of the recent spike in inflation it was necessary to balance the rising cost of making and delivering a school meal against our absolute commitment to ensuring that Nottinghamshire children continue to receive a high-quality, nutritious school meal product.

“Even after this price change is implemented, the cost of school meals in Nottinghamshire will still compare favourably with other areas, and the Council continues to subsidise the overall cost of providing these meals to keep the price as low as we realistically can.”

The price hike had originally been scheduled to come into force in October, but was put on hold due to the challenge.

Nottinghamshire County Council has not yet confirmed a new date for the rise.

The mechanism of ‘calling in’ a decision is supposed to be used in exceptional circumstances when councillors are severely concerned about the ruling cabinet’s actions.

Councillor Francis Purdue-Horan (Ind) said: “We are obviously disappointed that the call in to re-examine options has been rejected.

“The Independents are very concerned about families where children just miss out on free school meals.

“The cost of living crisis certainly hasn’t gone away, whatever politicians say.

“This increase should have been properly looked at again to see how we could better help residents.”

Arrests made after man is left with broken jaw following street fight in Arnold

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Arrests made after man is left with broken jaw following street fight in Arnold

Police investigating a street disturbance in Arnold that left a man with a broken jaw have arrested two suspects.

The victim approached officers in Front Street at around 2am on October 28, 2023 to report he had twice been punched in the face.

Detectives have been studying CCTV footage, interviewing witnesses and carrying out other local inquiries as part of their investigation into the incident.

Officers arrested two men, both aged 22, on suspicion of committing grievous bodily harm with intent on Thursday (16).

Detective Inspector Claire Gould, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The victim suffered a very nasty injury in this attack so we have been working hard to investigate exactly what happened.

“This level of violence on our streets is something we will never tolerate. Anyone committing this type of offence can expect to be met by a robust response from the force and a visit from officers.

“I’m pleased we have arrested these two suspects but our investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 23000668274, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

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

David Bratton
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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

Justin Doddy
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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
Pictured: Edward Robinson (Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Leah Choleton (Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Shayden West (Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Jamie Thorley (Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Mia Louise Smith (Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Reece Martin Courtesy of NCC)
Pictured: Megan Towers (Courtesy of NCC)

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

Gedling Eye Reporter
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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

Gedling Eye Reporter
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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

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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 Eye Reporter
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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

Gedling Eye Reporter
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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 Eye Reporter
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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.”

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