A Woodborough author has shared a frank, behind-the-scenes look into the world of grassroots and academy football from a father’s perspective in his latest book.
This true story, as told by by Prez’s barrister father Andrew Prestwich, is a warm, witty and intensely personal account of their attempt to navigate the world of grassroots and academy football.
It tells of the characters, skillfulness, kindnesses, injustices, duplicity and, at times, downright stupidity that they meet along the way.
Frank and utterly compelling, it provides a remarkable insight into the sport through Prez’s experience of junior football and the Nottingham Forest Academy.
Incorporated into this memoir is a fascinating behind-the-scenes story arising from litigation between Brian Clough and Robert Maxwell. It also offers a unique insight into the purchase and sale of Notts County by Alan Hardy.
Other well-known football figures who pop up include Darren Fletcher and Gary Brazil, the Academy manager at Nottingham Forest who once said to Andrew, “You should watch everything that goes on here.”
How right he was…
Based on his diaries and rich in anecdotes, Prestwich brings a lawyer’s head and a father’s heart to the world of junior football and lays bare the tensions between sport, education, ambition and nurture.
Andrew was a barrister for 30 years and has been proudly kicking out against injustice ever since.
The author explains: “The inspiration was two-fold. Firstly, it was the dismay that I felt in watching the way in which professional football academies behave. Secondly, of course, it was my son.
“My in-depth knowledge, which started by running a grassroots football team, gives me a comprehensive understanding of kids’ football at all levels. That is coupled with an analytical lawyer’s mind, thereby giving the reader a unique perspective on the subject.
“I kept extensive notes on everything that happened and there are many quotations in the book – several coming from some fairly well-known people in the world of football.”
Prez is due to be published on the May 28, 2026. Find out more via his website: https://prezbook.co.uk/
The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Mayor has spent more than £9,300 on “luxury, executive, premium and high-end” chauffeurs in the past year.
Newly provided data from the East Midlands Combined County Authority shows Claire Ward, the region’s mayor, who has a salary of £93,000 and extra allowances, spent £9,328 on chauffeuring services between March 2025 and February 2026.
In October, the Mayor took on duties for public transport across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, which have now been passed over from the city and county councils.
The payments were all made legally using a Government-issued corporate credit card, with new data disclosed following lobbying from the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The new data shows that between September last year and this February, the Mayor spent (£7,820.39) on chauffeurs, in addition to the £1,508 previously disclosed.
Of the £7,800, most (£7,300) was spent on the provider Pinnacle, based in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire, which describes itself as a luxury, executive, premium and high-end provider, with the rest via Blacklane in the USA.
Pinnacle details that its fleet comprises Mercedes S-class and BMW 7-series saloons, both of which are valued at more than £100,000 and include in-car Wi-Fi.
Previously, the combined authority had defended the use of chauffeurs as being a better use of the Mayor’s time than driving herself to and from visits across the extensive Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire patch – discussing issues such as public transport.
It also said that as a public politician there are safety and confidentiality considerations to be made about the Mayor’s travel while on her duties, with private chauffeuring firms insisting on DBS checks for drivers.
A spokesperson had also said Ms Ward is not allowed to drive a pool car under current legislation.
The LDRS asked for a statement from Ms Ward in response to the new chauffeur payment data, but a spokesperson for her office responded instead.
They said: “While we make every effort to arrange the Mayor’s calendar to enable multiple engagements in the same part of the region, there are some days where that is hard to achieve.
“The East Midlands is a large region, and it is important for the Mayor to visit all parts of it over the course of her term of office.
“On those days when the Mayor needs to be in multiple places over a single day, we use a local car hire company which has enough seat space so that she can make calls and catch up on email correspondence.
“This is a better use of her time than spending three or more hours driving herself.”
The new data also included a number of flights via British Airways to the USA and to France, totalling £2,685, paid for in February.
Accommodation for these trips, booked via Bnetwork in February, totalled £4,277, the combined authority details.
A spokesperson said the USA trip involved the Mayor forming part of a visit with the British Consultant General to lobby for the region and engage with investors in three different states: Chicago (Illinois), Columbus (Ohio) and Detroit (Michigan).
Meanwhile a flight to France, along with a £682 payment to a French meeting space organisation platform, were for the Mayor’s attendance and ticket for the annual international business summit MIPIM, held in Cannes, France, in March.
In response, a spokesperson said: “Regarding the expenses associated with travel overseas, Mayor Claire represents the East Midlands on investment and trade delegations, and the associated expenses are in line with those duties.”
The authority’s allowance policy says members are expected to travel by bus or standard class rail and to share journeys where possible, with taxis to be used in “rare circumstances”.
It says overseas travel should represent “value for money” and that staff and officials ought to take advantage of offers where possible.
The combined authority previously stressed that its use of corporate cards is in line with other authorities of a similar size and was not an outlier.
Choosing an engagement ring stone often starts with excitement, but it can quickly turn into uncertainty. You might find yourself second-guessing every option, wondering if you’re choosing the right shape, size or even type of stone for your partner.
When you focus on a few practical principles, you can cut through the noise and choose a stone that genuinely feels right.
Think about their personal style
It’s easy to get drawn into the latest engagement ring trends. But trends change quickly, while your partner’s taste tends to stay consistent.
Start by noticing what they already wear day to day. For example, if they often wear understated jewellery, a classic round diamond or a clean solitaire setting will likely feel right. On the other hand, if they enjoy standout accessories, you might explore a larger stone or a distinctive shape like a pear or emerald cut.
This approach keeps your decision grounded in their real preferences rather than what happens to be popular right now.
Set a workable budget
You don’t need to follow outdated rules about how much to spend. Instead, decide on a budget that feels comfortable for your circumstances and stick to it. This step helps you narrow your choices quickly and avoids unnecessary stress later.
Once you have a figure in mind, explore engagement ring options from a trusted retailer with a wide range of price points. This allows you to compare stones, settings and materials without compromising on quality.
Understand the 4 Cs
The Diamond 4Cs are cut, colour, clarity and carat. They offer a clear framework for comparing stones. The system was formalised by Robert M. Shipley, who founded the Gemological Institute of America to bring consistency to diamond grading.
Cut often has the biggest impact on how a diamond looks, because it affects how light reflects and creates sparkle.
Carat relates to size, yet a larger stone won’t necessarily look better if the cut is poor.
Colour and clarity also matter, though many differences are subtle to the untrained eye.
In practice, you might prioritise a well-cut diamond with slightly lower clarity, as this combination usually looks bright and lively without pushing your budget too far.
Final thoughts…
By following these tips, you can make the process much more manageable. What matters most is that the ring reflects your partner and the life you’re building together. If you keep that perspective at the centre of your decision, you’ll choose a stone that feels right.
The divorce process has undergone significant shifts in the UK in recent years, aiming to move away from the blame game and towards a constructive future, but going through a divorce remains one of life’s most profound transitions.
This article guides you through the practical and legal steps to cope with divorce, helping you navigate the emotional impact while understanding the modern legal landscape.
Understanding the Legal Framework of Divorce in the UK
The most significant change to British family law in decades arrived with the introduction of the no-fault divorce system in April 2022. Previously, one spouse often had to prove “fault” (such as adultery or unreasonable behaviour) to avoid years of separation. The new process is built on a single requirement: a statement that the marriage has irretrievably broken down.
The reform was specifically designed to reduce initial conflict by allowing couples to focus on the future rather than litigating the past. Under the new rules, there’s a mandatory 20-week reflection period between the initial application and the Conditional Order (formerly the Decree Nisi). The timeframe aims to give couples the space to consider their decision and make necessary arrangements before the divorce is finalised.
Managing Finances and Practical Arrangements
The division of assets remains a complex task despite divorce itself being less adversarial than in previous years. Ensuring a fair split of the family home, pensions, savings, and debt is essential for your future stability, especially as the rising cost of living has intensified financial disputes, with more couples finding their household budgets stretched thinner as they transition from one home to two.
Careful financial management during this time prevents impulsive emotional decisions from causing long-term fiscal harm.
Prioritising Emotional Well-being and Support
The emotional toll of separation remains high even with a streamlined legal system, so it’s vital to separate the legal ending of the marriage from your personal recovery. Seeking counselling or joining support networks can provide a vital outlet for the grief and anger that often accompany a split.
Prioritising your mental health ensures that you are in the right frame of mind to make the significant life decisions required during the legal process.
Exploring Dispute Resolution and Moving Forward
To avoid the delays and public nature of the court system, many UK couples are now choosing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods. Mediation and arbitration are increasingly encouraged by the judiciary to ease the pressure on family courts. These methods offer a quicker, more private, and often more cost-effective way to reach agreements on everything from childcare schedules to asset division.
By choosing a collaborative path, you can conclude the legal aspects of your divorce with your dignity and finances intact, allowing you to move forward with clarity.
Plans for hundreds more homes on a Nottinghamshire golf course could spark “real anger” in the community, with club officials claiming the council has “bitten off more than they can chew” over the controversial scheme.
The chair of Mapperley Golf Club spoke out as later this week Gedling Borough Council’s cabinet is set to decide on its updated ‘draft’ local development plan.
This outlines which areas in the borough could be allocated for several thousand new homes between 2028 and 2043.
Key bits of green space, including some edges of the borough’s swathes of countryside, have been included, which may see more rural areas become developed and smaller villages expand.
One particular bit of land is Mapperley Golf Club which could be earmarked for hundreds of new homes in future.
The authority – which owns the land – is pushing forward with its plans for the site off Plains Road and Central Avenue to potentially be used for up to 750 houses.
The 18-hole club has existed for more than 120 years and its membership has been growing in the last year.
Paul Cookson, 57, Mapperley Golf Club chairman, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service he is “100 per cent confident” the club will still be there in 10 years.
He said: “We’ve been expecting this, however I think [the council] has bitten off more than they can chew because of the covenant of land, the problems of the land – the shape of it is not conducive of a housing estate.
“Even though it’s in the [council’s] plan, I’m 100 per cent confident the golf club will still be here in 10 years time because there’s so many legal things to go through to enforce termination of the lease.”
Mr Cookson says the club is “thriving”, with it being in the “best condition it’s ever been in”, and said the memberships are increasing year on year.
The club currently boasts nearly 500 members, with around 50 joining in the last year. Non-member footfall also increased by around 20 per cent in 2025 on the previous year.
Mr Cookson continued: “To remove a well-used community resource like that – they’ve already done the same with [Gedling Indoor] bowling club, they’re just removing all community-based activities.
“It’s been 127 years we’ve managed that land, gifted from different areas in Gedling for the purpose of recreation – they seem to have the god-given right to put 750 houses on and not a thought to the community.
“I intend to fight the good fight and not just roll over.”
Callum Fern, 32, has been the Head Professional at the club for around a year-and-a-half. He said the potential plans for the land are “awful”.
He said: “When I came in, a couple of things they wanted from me was to try increase female and junior participation – we’ve had loads of initiatives to help women get into golf and kids get into golf.
“I think it’s awful really. It already seems very overpopulated in this area. I talk to members that have lived here for a long while… I hear that it’s a struggle to get into schools and doctors.
“It’s not just golfers. We’re trying to be a bit more of a community hub really, a place to come for breakfast, sit in the sun, have a pint with a family member.
“It’s more than just golf for a lot of people, it’s for their physical and mental health, a friendship hub, a community hub. It might be the only time they see people all week.”
Mr Fern said the feelings from the staff over the vulnerable future of the club have turned “more positive” compared to a year ago, where they have been doing their own research on what is in place to protect the land.
Anton Robinson was first a member in 2014 for a few years but rejoined again in 2022. He called the club his “happy place”.
He said: “For a lot of members it’s their life… there’s a lot of retired members, it’s where they come, meet people, get their exercise. There’s people in their 80s playing out there – you take that away from them, where do they go?
“It’s my happy place, I come up here as much as I possibly can… I’ve made really good friends here, I’ve still got really good friends here who I play with every week – it’s where I go to feel good and forget about working life or what the council’s doing.
“It wouldn’t be disappointment, it would be a real anger that this place has been taken away from us.
“You can argue it’s a small number of people playing golf but it’s the wider community, the wildlife, the green space – I think it would be an act of vandalism to take this away because it’s not like you can undo it.”
The golf course was previously threatened by plans to build on it more than a decade ago, with the authority planning to allocate the area for up to 1,900 homes up until 2011.
A 4,000-person strong campaign opposing the development followed and planning officials decided it would be too expensive to build there in the end.
A council spokesperson said: “The report in respect of the Consultation on the Publication Draft Gedling Local Development Plan will be considered by Cabinet on May 21 and, if approved by cabinet and then council, will allow a period of public consultation in respect of all the policies and allocations proposed, including Mapperley Golf Course.
“The Plan proposes a spatial strategy based on a settlement hierarchy with the proposed site allocations being in accordance with this. As much housing as is feasible is proposed to be located within and adjoining the main built up area of Nottingham.”
These are the latest applications to have been submitted to and validated by Gedling Borough Council last week.
These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.
Single storey rear extension, new accessible porch and first floor extension over existing garage to provide accessible accommodation 4 Middlebeck Drive, Arnold Ref. No: 2026/0295
Variation of conditions 2 (approved plans) and 4 (window materials) of planning permission 2025/0542 to amend the position of the proposed dwelling, and amend the window material from timber to UPVC Residence 7. 29 Church Lane, Linby Ref. No: 2026/0296
Pruning of overhanging tree branches to front of property. 146, Nottingham Road, Ravenshead Ref. No: 2026/0288TPO
Police investigating the theft of a car from a Carlton showroom have issued a man they want to speak to as part of their inquiries.
A Nissan Navara was reportedly taken from outside a car dealership in Oakdale Road.
The theft took place sometime between 5.30pm and 8.30pm on May 7, with police notified soon after.
Officers have been looking into the incident since then and can now release an image of someone they’d like to speak to.
Sergeant Elizabeth Johnson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This theft has caused understandable upset to the business owners.
“Bearing this in mind, we’re determined to get to the bottom of exactly what happened here and bring them justice.
“On that note, we’re trying to track down the man pictured, who we believe could have information that could assist our investigation.
“We’d therefore ask that he makes himself known to us, should he see this appeal, while we’d ask anyone who recognises him to let us know who he is.”
Information can be reported directly to the police on 101, quoting incident 718 of 7 May 2026, while Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Creating a well-organized home is about more than just tidiness; it’s about making the most of every inch of space you have. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a larger family home, smart storage solutions can transform clutter into calm while improving both functionality and aesthetics. With a few thoughtful strategies, homeowners can unlock hidden potential in their living spaces.
Make Use of Vertical Space
One of the most overlooked areas in any home is vertical space. Walls are not just for decoration; they can be practical storage hubs. Installing floating shelves, tall cabinets, or wall-mounted organizers allows you to store items without taking up valuable floor space. This approach works particularly well in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices where surfaces can quickly become overcrowded.
Floor-to-ceiling shelving units are another excellent option, especially in living rooms or bedrooms. They create a sense of height while providing ample storage for books, décor, and everyday essentials.
Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture
Furniture that serves more than one purpose is a game-changer for modern homes. Storage beds with built-in drawers, ottomans that double as storage boxes, and coffee tables with hidden compartments all help reduce clutter without sacrificing style.
These pieces are especially useful in smaller homes where space is limited. Instead of adding more furniture, you maximize what you already have. A well-chosen multi-functional item can replace multiple pieces, making your home feel more open and organized.
Optimize Underutilized Areas
Every home has spaces that often go unused, under the stairs, beneath the bed, or even above kitchen cabinets. These areas can be transformed into highly functional storage zones with a bit of creativity.
Under-stair storage, for example, can be turned into drawers, cupboards, or even a compact home office. Similarly, under-bed storage boxes are perfect for seasonal clothing, bedding, or shoes. Making use of these hidden areas helps keep your main living spaces clear and clutter-free.
Smart Garage and Outdoor Storage
Garages and outdoor spaces often become dumping grounds for tools, equipment, and seasonal items. However, with proper planning, they can become highly efficient storage areas.
Wall-mounted racks, pegboards, and overhead storage systems help keep items organized and easily accessible. For larger storage needs, such as water storage or bulk equipment, investing in durable external solutions can make a significant difference. For example, using reliable systems from quicktanks.co.uk can help homeowners manage outdoor storage more effectively while keeping essential resources secure and accessible.
Declutter Before You Organize
Before implementing any storage solution, it’s important to declutter. Keeping items you no longer use or need will only make storage more difficult. Go through each room and sort belongings into categories: keep, donate, or discard.
Once you’ve reduced unnecessary items, organizing becomes much easier. You’ll also have a clearer idea of what type of storage solutions will work best for your home.
Use Clear Containers and Labels
Storage isn’t just about putting things away; it’s about being able to find them when you need them. Clear containers allow you to see what’s inside at a glance, while labels add an extra layer of organization.
This method works particularly well in pantries, closets, and garages. Group similar items together and label them clearly to save time and avoid frustration later.
Create Dedicated Zones
Assigning specific areas for different activities or categories of items can greatly improve organization. For example, create a designated entryway zone for shoes, coats, and bags, or a specific cabinet for cleaning supplies.
When everything has a “home,” it’s easier to maintain order. This approach also helps other household members stay organized, as they know exactly where items belong.
Keep It Flexible
Finally, remember that your storage needs may change over time. Choose solutions that are adaptable and easy to adjust. Modular shelving, stackable containers, and movable organizers allow you to reconfigure your space as needed.
A flexible approach ensures that your home remains functional and organized, no matter how your lifestyle evolves.
