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Community being invited to help celebrate the life and legacy of Duncan Macmillan House in Mapperley

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Community being invited to help celebrate the life and legacy of Duncan Macmillan House in Mapperley

Staff, former patients and local residents are being invited to share their memories of Duncan Macmillan House (DMH) in Mapperley for a new project documenting its rich history before it is sold by the NHS.

The decision to sell the site has been made due to increasing costs to maintain the ageing Victorian building.

Nottinghamshire Healthcare said its sale will allow the Trust to redirect resources into frontline services.

Prior to the sale, Nottinghamshire Healthcare plans to gather stories, memories and photographs from colleagues past and present, patients and community members. They hope these contributions will help shape a legacy project celebrating the history and impact of Duncan Macmillan House – and the extraordinary people who made it what it is.

In the months ahead, the Trust will share these stories through community events, online features and social media, offering everyone connected to DMH a chance to reflect, remember and celebrate its proud history. 

Nottinghamshire Healthcare chief executive, Ifti Majid said: “Duncan Macmillan House holds a very special place in our history and in the hearts of so many people who have worked or received care there. Dr Macmillan’s pioneering vision changed the way mental health care is delivered, not only in Nottinghamshire but across the country. As we look to the future, our focus is on honouring that legacy while continuing to invest in services and environments that best support the health and wellbeing of our communities.” 

‘A symbol of care’

For decades, Duncan Macmillan House (DMH) in Mapperley, has stood as a symbol of care, compassion and innovation in mental health. Named after Dr Duncan Macmillan, a visionary psychiatrist whose work helped transform the treatment of mental illness across the UK, the iconic building has long been a cornerstone of mental health services in Nottinghamshire and beyond. 

Dr Macmillan was instrumental in developing more person-centred, community-based approaches to mental health care during a time when institutionalisation was the norm. His forward-thinking ideas helped shape modern mental health policy and practice, championing the belief that people should receive compassionate care closer to home.  

The site now known as Duncan Macmillan House on Porchester Road, Mapperley, was originally built as the Nottingham Borough Lunatic Asylum, opening its doors in August 1880. Designed by renowned architect George Thomas Hine, it was constructed to accommodate 280 patients at a cost of around £30,000.  

Over the years, it expanded and evolved, later becoming Mapperley Hospital, a key site for mental health care until its closure as a psychiatric hospital in December 1994. Since then, the site has been repurposed by Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, transforming from a clinical setting into the Trust’s headquarters and home to a range of non-clinical and support services.  

As the Trust prepares for the sale of Duncan Macmillan House, it is inviting colleagues, former patients, those with links to DMH and local residents to help celebrate the remarkable legacy of both the building and the man behind its name. For generations, DMH has been home to dedicated teams, pioneering projects and countless stories of care. 

For more information, updates and opportunities to get involved, please visit www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/DMH. 

Gedling woman pleads for help after husband’s beloved bike used for charity work stolen

David Bratton
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Gedling woman pleads for help after husband’s beloved bike used for charity work stolen
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A Gedling woman is pleading for help after a motorbike used by her husband to carry out charity work was stolen. 

Lorna Mayfield has launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds in a bid to replace her husband’s Yamaha Tracer GT 

The motorbike was stolen from their home on Lambley Lane at around 2:30am on Tuesday, October 28. 

Despite being locked behind gates, thieves managed to take it while the couple were away — an incident captured on their doorbell camera. 

Husband Steven has described the theft as “cruel and senseless,” sharing that the blue-and-black Yamaha (reg FL68 GCZ) was spotted between St Ann’s and Kirkby-in-Ashfield.  

The Yamaha Tracer GT (pictured) was stolen from the property on Lambley Lane (IMAGE: Facebook)
The bike was locked behind gates but thieves still managed to take it while the couple were away
Footage was captured on the couple’s doorbell camera

A police investigation is ongoing, and Steven has offered a substantial reward for its return. 

The loss is particularly devastating as Steven’s bike wasn’t just for leisure — he used it to support charities and community causes. Over the years, he’s taken part in events for the Salvation Army Toy Run, British Heart Foundation, Alzheimer’s Society, and countless disabled children’s ride-a-longs and hospital toy deliveries.  

“Nearly every mile ridden was in the service of helping others,” Steven said. 

Wife Lorna added: “This work gives him purpose, community, and the chance to make a difference. To have the bike taken in such a cruel and senseless way has been heartbreaking — but it will not stop the mission. The charitable work will continue. We will rebuild.” 

The couple are now trying to raise £3,500 to replace the bike so Steven can return to his volunteer rides. So far, more than £250 has been raised. 

You can donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-replace-stolen-motorbike 

Powerleague five-a-side pitches to open in Arnold following £890k investment

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Powerleague five-a-side pitches to open in Arnold following £890k investment

A popular operator of five-a-side football pitches is to launch at a new location in Arnold. 

Powerleague plans to open a new small-sided football venue following an £890,000 investment. 

The site, Powerleague Nottingham Arnold, is being developed at Arnold Hill Spencer Academy on Gedling Road and is expected to open at the end of November.  

Eight five-a-side pitches and one full-size pitch that can be divided into four seven-a-side pitches will be available for hire and all will be using Powerleague’s PowerPitch Plus surface. 

The investment is being spent on refurbishing the existing clubhouse, including updates to the bar, changing rooms and social spaces. 

Powerleague chief executive John Gillespie said the opening marks “an important step” in expanding the company’s footprint in Nottingham. 

“With state-of-the-art surfaces and a refurbished clubhouse, we’re continuing to invest in the future of small-sided football,” he said.  

“But this launch is also about making the game more accessible and creating a place where the local community can come together. 

“Registrations are now open at Nottingham Arnold – sign up so you don’t miss out on any updates.” 

You can sign up for information here: https://www.powerleague.com/nottingham-arnold 

The eerie story behind a ‘haunted’ murder stone placed in memory of a Papplewick teenager brutally killed more than 200 years ago

David Bratton
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The eerie story behind a ‘haunted’ murder stone placed in memory of a Papplewick teenager brutally killed more than 200 years ago

A “haunted” murder stone put in place in memory of a Papplewick teenager has a tragic story behind it after the 17-year-old was beaten to death by Charles Rotherham more than 200 years ago.

Largely forgotten in the undergrowth on the A60 Nottingham Road near Harlow Wood, this simple stone was erected in 1819 by the shocked residents in response to the murder of 17-year-old Elizabeth “Bessie” Sheppard.

Elizabeth lived in the rural village of Papplewick. She was walking along the Nottingham Road travelling to Mansfield looking for work. Its possible that she intended staying there until she found a job or possibly had just enjoyed herself there, but either way she stayed overnight.

Being successful in finding a job, the following morning she started the long walk home, past Harlow Wood. At the bottom of the hill near the bend in the road she disturbed a man who was sleeping under a hedge at the side of the road. He had been drinking in the nearby Hutt public house.Without any warning the man hit the poor girl on the left side of her head knocking Bessie senseless and sending her spinning to the ground. Finding no money on the girl, he untied her shoes and also stole her yellow umbrella that she was carrying.

After throwing the body into the ditch by the roadside, he returned to the Hutt, where he failed to sell his stolen goods. He then continued to head south towards Nottingham, stopping at the Seven Mile Inn to try and sell the shoes. Being unsuccessful, The killer continued on to the Three Crowns Inn at Redhill, where he did manage to sell the shoes and also left without the umbrella.

The man was later identified as one Charles Rotherham, a 33-year-old scissor grinder from Sheffield.

Sheppard’s body was found by some quarrymen who were travelling along past the spot. They also found the murder weapon which was a blood stained hedge stake.

The body was taken to Sutton for an inquest that lasted two days.

Bessie was then buried in Papplewick Churchyard.

The headstone pictured in undergrowth on the A60 Nottingham Road

After leaving such a clear trail, the police and the public knew who to look for and Constable Benjamin Barnes duly arrested Charles Rotherham. near Loughborough. The officer had to fend off an angry crowd who wanted to impose their own justice. Constable Barnes took Charles Rotherham back to the scene of the crime where he admitted everything, but the motive to this day is still unclear. Bessie Sheppard was apparently in the wrong place at the wrong time.

It was said at the trial that Charles Rotherham had spent eight years in the army, which probably included many years of the fighting against Napoleon and France. He could possibly have also been at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. His time in the army may have dulled his sense of decency, which today would have been diagnosed with PTSD.

Rotherham was found guilty of murder and on Monday, July 28, 1817 there was a public execution by hanging in Nottingham. A penny dreadful was produced telling the whole story in much more detail and you can find a copy in the Mansfield Museum.

It was a man by the name of Anthony Buckles who started a collection to raise money to pay for the memorial stone and site the monument that we see today on Nottingham Road.

In 1960 the road was widened and the stone moved slightly, and another more permanent inscription added to the opposite side.

Ghostly sightings

There have been numerous stories about the ghost of Bessie Sheppard in the vicinity of the monument.  Motorists have stopped to give a lift to a girl who then disappeared.

Bessie is also said to appear every time the stone is disturbed. The A60 Nottingham Road was widened in the 1930s and the stone was moved back several feet. An eerie figure was seen loitering around the spot where the stone used to be for a number of days afterward. Similar sightings were reported 20 years later after the stone was hit by a car.

The ghost of Sheppard was also seen many times by staff on the wards of the old Harlow Wood hospital, which is now closed.         

In 1988 the police were called to Bessie Sheppard’s grave in Papplewick because vandals had removed the gravestone. To publicise the incident police officers and a photographer visited the stone on the A60. monument. Whilst they were there being photographed touching the stone, one of the officers had a revelation and immediately returned to Papplewick and located the missing gravestone buried in vegetation 200 feet away from the grave and returned to its original site. The headstone was later removed to keep the location of the grave secret.

Over 8,000 pothole repairs expected to be finished by December

Lauren Monaghan
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Over 8,000 pothole repairs expected to be finished by December

More than 8,000 Nottinghamshire potholes will be fixed by December this year, according to a senior councillor.

Between April 1 and October 31, 8,860 potholes and road defects were reported to Nottinghamshire County Council.

The pothole figure was mentioned in the council’s cabinet meeting on Thursday (November 6) as part of the authority’s anticipated highways review.

In June 2025, the council approved a decision to move forward with a review of the county’s roads and highway services.

Its completion has found four key themes, comprising maximising funding opportunities, “prudent” asset and network management, effective and efficient delivery and improved communications and community-led works.

Speaking following the meeting, council leader Mick Barton (Reform) said the authority and its highway partner, VIA, “have worked really hard before the winter” to fix potholes.

He said: “We’ve reported over 8,000 potholes since our administration in May. A lot of them we’ve worked hard before the winter comes, because if you don’t work on them before winter, they will break up – a lot of them have been repaired properly.”

Councillor Bert Bingham (Reform), cabinet member for transport and environment, told the LDRS these would be “pretty much done by December” as part of preventative efforts before the colder and wetter months.

Part of the council’s highway plan is to “maximise” money opportunities for improving the county’s roads.

Currently, £44.7 million of the £52.4 million total money for road works comes from the East Midlands County Combined Authority (EMCCA).

For 2025/26, EMCCA gave the council nearly £15.2 million  above the usual funding from the Department for Transport.

EMCCA is set to receive “significant levels” of money from the government in 2026/27 that equates to £2 billion over the next six-year period.

Speaking during the meeting, Cllr Mike Introna (Con) asked: “What proactive steps are being taken to secure a larger, fairer share of EMCCA’s £2 billion, for our local roads?

“[EMCCA] is funnelling millions into active travel schemes instead of tackling the real infrastructure challenges that are holding our region back. This administration needs to challenge this – without that financial support, even the best plans will remain aspirations only.

“The right-first-time and permanent repairs principles that [the previous Conservative administration] introduced must remain the standard, not the exception, and continue to be improvable.”

Responding to Cllr Introna’s question to the LDRS following the meeting, Cllr Barton said he has a “brilliant” working relationship with EMCCA mayor, Claire Ward (Lab).

He said: “If we can get on with some smaller projects like the White Post roundabout or some others that will be quick wins to get started before we do the big [projects].”

He added the authority had asked the mayor for more money for roads in the next financial year, saying “the comments have been favourable… the signals are good”.

From that £2 billion pot, Cllr Bingham said the council is seeking additional funding for a multi-year period of three to five years and that EMCCA funding is “back-loaded”, adding: “We’d like to see it more front-loaded so we can get more work done up front.

“Negotiations are ongoing and by December we’ll have a pretty good idea.”

The Reform authority’s leader said that it has reintroduced a three-road principle.

This relates to each county councillor being able to put forward three roads each in their respective wards that they believe require the most attention. They will then be seen as priority roads for fixing.

This policy existed previously at the council but has not been a principle for several years and Cllr Bingham says alongside the three roads, councillors will also be able to put forward three other highway issues, such as crossings and signage problems.

As part of the authority’s road fixes, Cllr Barton says he is hopeful “hundreds of miles” of roads will have better weather-resistant micro asphalt resurfacing works done, rural villages are already receiving drain cleaning and new equipment is currently being looked at.

Around 17 miles of resurfacing works are planned for the 2025/26 financial year, and around 14.5 miles of this have already been completed since April.

Historic Papplewick Pumping Station successfully restored and removed from ‘at risk’ register

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Historic Papplewick Pumping Station successfully restored and removed from ‘at risk’ register

A major £500,000 restoration project has been completed at Papplewick Pumping Station allowing it to be removed from the Heritage at Risk Register. 

The ornate pumping station, built between 1882-86 in the Gothic Revival style, provided clean water to Nottingham until it was decommissioned in 1969. It remains the only pumping station in England to still have all its original features, including machinery and the reservoir. 

PICTURED: Papplewick Pumping Station

The Grade II* listed Engine House has stunning interiors, with images of fish and water lilies decorating tiles and stained-glass windows. These features are remarkable given the station was rarely visited by anyone other than workers. 

Historic England’s grant of £9,450 in 2021 helped identify repair needs and inform a successful £518,000 grant from Arts Council England’s Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) in early 2023. 

Repair works to the Boiler House’s chimney, the Engine House porch and the listed flanking walls were completed last winter. 

Gedling borough residents get chance to shape future of council leisure centres 

David Bratton
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Gedling borough residents get chance to shape future of council leisure centres 

Residents are being urged to have their say on council proposals over the future of leisure services across Gedling borough.  

As part of its new leisure strategy, Gedling Borough Council wants to improve and modernise local leisure facilities. These include plans for brand-new centres in Carlton and Arnold and exploring new ways to manage Calverton Leisure Centre. 

The council say many of the current facilities are ageing and costly to maintain, so want to look at ways to invest in modern alternatives, while ensuring communities continue to benefit from local access. 

The survey asks residents for their views on the future of leisure centres currently located on school sites and whether they would support new management arrangements or replacement facilities nearby. 

The council say many of the current facilities are ageing and costly to maintain
A new centre would replace both the Richard Herrod Centre and also Carlton Forum Leisure Centre

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE, said: “We’re committed to providing the very best leisure services for our residents and this strategy is about building a future where everyone can enjoy modern, accessible and vibrant facilities.  

“We know how important these centres are to our communities and we want to hear your views. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and have your say on the future of leisure services in Gedling.” 

The survey is available until December 18 and can be completed online and paper copies are available from Gedling leisure centres. 

To take part in the survey, visit www.gedling.gov.uk/haveyoursay. 

STUART BESTWICK: Reform could be forced to break promises by raiding piggy bank or cutting services to tackle looming council budget overspend

Gedling Eye Reporter
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STUART BESTWICK: Reform could be forced to break promises by raiding piggy bank or cutting services to tackle looming council budget overspend

Conservative Councillor Stuart Bestwick represents Newstead Ward on Nottinghamshire County Council.

In this column, Cllr Bestwick questions how Reform will balance the books as they face a possible council budget overspend.

Just six months into the financial year, the Reform-led Nottinghamshire County Council is staring at a huge overspend – a sharp reversal from the balanced position achieved under the previous Conservative administration.

The latest Financial Monitoring Report presented at Thursday’s Cabinet meeting exposes a pattern of in-year drift and growing pressure across key services. We Conservative councillors are warning that the situation leaves Reform facing tough choices – either break open the “piggy bank” of reserves, or start cutting the very frontline services they promised to protect.

Cllr Bestwick says the Reform-led Nottinghamshire County Council is staring at a huge overspend just six months into the financial year,
Conservatives say new figures show that Reform’s financial grip is slipping

Reform were elected on promises to save money, drive efficiency and reduce council tax. Six months in, and we’re already seeing an overspent budget. The question now is: where will they strike to balance the books? Will they raid the reserves, or will they start cutting vital services?”

“They could have to start cutting the very frontline services they promised to protect.”

Adult Social Care remains the biggest source of pressure, with a £4.95 million overspend forecast despite the much-publicised ‘Sustainability Plan’. Reform said they have a plan to get costs under control, but there’s little evidence to show it’s working. Unless Central Government steps in to bail them out, the current assumptions on demand and placement costs look wildly optimistic.

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The High Needs crisis paints an equally grim picture, with a £33.7 million overspend and a £31.7 million reserve deficit. These aren’t just numbers, they’re a flashing red warning light for the Council’s long-term stability. If Reform don’t act quickly, Nottinghamshire could find itself in real trouble.

Turning to the Council’s wider financial outlook, there are major risks in the Medium-Term Financial Strategy. The plan assumes £45 million of savings over three years and just a 2% pay rise. Those numbers don’t stack up. We need to see what happens if funding tightens or inflation keeps rising – otherwise, we’re being asked to take it all on faith.

I would also question the new DOGE style Efficiency Working Group, set up to find savings: so far, we’ve seen nothing, no membership list, no timetable and no targets. Reform talk about efficiency, but where’s the evidence they can actually deliver it?

I don’t doubt the commitment of council staff, but these figures show that Reform’s financial grip is slipping. They came in promising to save taxpayers’ money – yet within months they could be forced to raid the reserves left by the previous Conservative administration or make huge cuts to frontline services. Nottinghamshire’s residents deserve a council that plans prudently, not one that gambles with their future.

Police renew appeal in bid to reunite woodfired pizza van stolen from Netherfield with owners

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Police renew appeal in bid to reunite woodfired pizza van stolen from Netherfield with owners

Police have renewed an appeal for information after a wood-fired pizza van was stolen from outside a property in Netherfield last month.

The white camper-style Fiat Ducato belongs to Antica Woodfired Pizza and was reported missing from Pintail Close after 8.30pm on October 23. 

The van has a striking light-up ‘Pizza’ sign, as well as three chimneys on its roof. 

A post regarding the van on the firm’s social media page said: “We did everything to keep our van secure but they still managed to get away with it. Please keep an eye and report if seen.” 

PC Louise Bicknell, who is investigating the incident, said: “Thefts like these can be devastating for victims. 

“This vehicle has clearly had a lot of money invested in it, and its loss will have a big financial impact on its owners and their business. 

“We would like to hear from anyone in the area who has any information, saw what happened, or knows where the van is. 

“We particularly want to hear from a woman we believe may have witnessed this theft. If this is you we urge you to come forward at the earliest opportunity 

“If you have information that could be valuable to the investigation, please call 101 quoting incident 680 of 23 October, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.” 

Is Stone Flooring the Smartest Home Investment of 2025?

Graham Finch
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Is Stone Flooring the Smartest Home Investment of 2025?

Home design trends come and go, but some choices stand the test of time. As homeowners look ahead to 2025, one material continues to rise above the rest for both beauty and practicality: stone flooring. More than just a design statement, it is a long-term investment that brings enduring value, natural warmth, and everyday functionality. If you’re thinking about upgrading your home, stone flooring might just be the smartest move you make this year.

A Foundation of Lasting Strength

Few materials can match the strength and longevity of natural stone. Unlike synthetic flooring that wears or fades over time, stone retains its character and structure for decades. Its resilience makes it ideal for busy households, where durability matters as much as style. Families appreciate how stone flooring withstands the rhythm of daily life while growing more beautiful with age. It’s not just flooring; it’s a foundation built to last.

Beauty That Evolves with Time

The charm of stone flooring lies in its timeless elegance. Each piece is unique, with variations in texture, tone, and pattern that bring depth to any space. As trends change, stone never goes out of style. Its natural look complements both classic and contemporary interiors, allowing it to evolve with your home’s personality. A neutral limestone or a bold slate floor can effortlessly elevate your space without ever feeling dated.

A Sustainable Choice for Modern Homes

Sustainability is at the heart of smart design in 2025. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to materials that respect the planet while enhancing everyday living. Stone flooring stands out for its natural origins and long lifespan, reducing the need for replacements and waste. It is an environmentally responsible choice that aligns with eco-conscious living. By choosing quality materials from trusted sources such as mystonefloor.com, you are investing in craftsmanship that values both nature and design.

Adding Real Value to Your Property

A home with stone flooring often commands a higher value, both in aesthetics and resale potential. Buyers are drawn to its sophistication and longevity, viewing it as a mark of quality. Beyond monetary worth, it adds emotional value to a home. There’s something grounding about walking across cool stone in summer or enjoying its gentle warmth through underfloor heating in winter. These are small luxuries that turn everyday living into something extraordinary.

Low Maintenance, High Reward

One of the greatest benefits of stone flooring is how easy it is to maintain. A simple sweep and occasional mop keep it looking pristine. Unlike carpets that trap dust or laminate that scratches easily, stone resists daily wear while maintaining its natural sheen. With the right care, it becomes a lifelong feature of your home, reducing the time and cost of upkeep. In an age when convenience matters, this is one upgrade that pays off in peace of mind.

A Reflection of Personal Taste

Your home should reflect who you are, and stone flooring provides endless possibilities for personal expression. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of terracotta or the sleek refinement of marble, there is a style to suit every aesthetic. The tactile beauty of stone invites touch and admiration, grounding your home in authenticity. It is a way to make a statement without shouting, a perfect blend of form and function.

Investing in What Truly Lasts

In 2025, the smartest investments are not about quick returns but about long-term value. Stone flooring embodies that philosophy perfectly. It enhances your home’s comfort, elegance, and sustainability while standing up to the demands of everyday life. Choosing stone means choosing permanence in a world that often favours the temporary.

Final Reflection

Stone flooring is more than a design decision; it is a legacy of craftsmanship and care. It transforms houses into homes that feel enduring, natural, and full of character. As you plan your next home improvement, consider the strength, beauty, and timeless appeal of stone.

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