This week (5) saw the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day and Veolia, in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council, is asking Gedling borough schools to help them grow their network of orchards across the county.
In 2022, Veolia Nottinghamshire and its charity partners Groundwork, delivered 35 free fruit trees to seven schools across the borough. In 2023, Veolia wants to grow this network of orchards and support more schools on their environmental journeys.
Nottinghamshire County Council announced on June 7 that this initiative was launched in 2022 to foster a deeper connection with nature whilst empowering students with the skills to take care of their local environments.
100 schools across the country are already benefiting from these powerful tools to educate pupils on the importance of planting trees and the biodiversity they support.
A Veolia Orchard is made up of five young fruit trees to bring nature and biodiversity to playgrounds, big or small.
Nottinghamshire County Council advise that schools can apply online at www.veolia.co.uk/veolia-orchard between Monday 5 June and Monday 24 July with successful applicants being informed in September with deliveries taking place during October and November.
Pascal Hauret, Managing Director, Municipal at Veolia said:
“It only takes five fruit trees to make an orchard but it takes a nation to grow a network of trees that can help us fight climate change and improve air quality for our children.
“In 2022, we were excited to see this new initiative take root. This year, we are overwhelmed by how successful Veolia Orchard has been and eager for this network to grow and thrive.
“With 100 schools already taking care of their trees in 2023, we encourage all schools in Nottinghamshire (excluding the city) to apply and help us deliver ecological transformation, one orchard at a time.”
Councillor Neil Clarke MBE, Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Nottinghamshire County Council said:
“We’re delighted to be running this campaign in Nottinghamshire once again and are sure that our schools will appreciate having the chance to improve their outdoor spaces by planting fruit trees.
“Planting fruit trees provides local school children with the chance to get their hands dirty while learning at the same time. Not only does it help to increase their understanding of where their food comes from, it also helps to support the fight against climate change.”
Joe McIndoe, UK Partnerships Manager at Groundwork said: “Groundwork is delighted to be working alongside Veolia and Nottinghamshire County Council to deliver the Veolia Orchard planting project for the second year running, with this year set to double the number of schools benefitting.
“It’s such a simple yet impactful project to provide fruit trees and strawberry plants to schools across the country. More children can have the pleasure of picking and eating juicy fresh food whilst sitting in the dappled shade in the summer and providing a home, and food, for local biodiversity.
A handy booklet will be provided to all schools so that they can plant and care for their new trees. We can’t wait to see more smiling faces as they plant their trees in autumn.”
The full press release from Nottinghamshire County Council can be accessed HERE.
Detectives investigating the theft of cash from a vulnerable elderly lady have released an image of a man they would like to speak to.
The woman, aged in her 90s, was at home when a suspect entered her living room and stole cash from her purse.
The incident occurred at an address in Mapperley Park, on 17 May this year.
Officers have been pursuing a number of leads but are now appealing for the public’s help to trace a man seen outside the address.
Detective Constable Tim Townsend, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a callous and cowardly crime perpetrated against a vulnerable, elderly victim.
“We are determined to catch the person responsible and believe the man in this image may have information that will help our investigation.
“If you know who he is – or if this is you – please get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting incident 297 of 19 May 2023 or contact Crimestoppers.
The ‘poor condition’ of public toilets at the historic former home of Lord Byron means they are in line for a refurbishment and expansion to better suit visitors.
Newstead Abbey dates back as far as the 12th century and was home to the poet from 1808-1814.
Today it is open to the public and managed by Nottingham City Council’s museums and galleries service.
Planning documents submitted by the council say the existing toilets are in a poor condition and their limited size is “hindering” bookings for larger events such as weddings.
Under the proposals, the toilets will be expanded into the staff offices to increase their size and make them more accessible for those using wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Planning documents, submitted to Gedling Borough Council, say: “Recurring feedback from visitors and customers have been that the toilets are not enough, in a poor condition and are in need of modernisation.
“The current toilets and layout is not fit for purpose and hinder event hires and bookings.
“The new proposals will ensure that the toilets are in-keeping for the space and will adequately meet the demand for the event hire.”
Newstead Abbey was first built as a monastic house in the late 12th Century but became home to the poet following its conversion to a domestic home upon the dissolution of monasteries.
Its gardens and parkland cover more than 300 acres.
Documents say protective measures will be put in place to ensure all trees are retained and buildings are not damaged during construction.
The council told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the refurbishment will cost between £150,000 and £200,000.
If plans are approved, the work will be funded using some of the proceeds from the sale of East Lodge.
The Grade II listed lodge, on the grounds of the abbey, was built by C. A. Buckler for F.W. Webb in 1862.
Its lease was put on the market in 2019 for up to £180,000.
Purchasing a new car is an exciting and significant decision. Whether you’re in the market for a reliable family vehicle like the Peugeot 408 or dreaming of cruising in a luxurious new Mercedes-Benz, finding the right car at the best price requires careful research and planning. In this ultimate car-buying guide, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the car-buying process successfully.
Determine Your Needs and Budget:
Before embarking on your car-buying journey, it’s essential to assess your needs and set a realistic budget. Consider factors such as the size of your family, daily commuting needs, desired features, and fuel efficiency. Evaluating your requirements will guide you towards selecting the right car that suits your lifestyle and preferences while staying within your budget.
Do Your Research:
Knowledge is power when it comes to buying a car. Spend time researching different makes and models that align with your needs. Compare specifications, safety ratings, fuel economy, and maintenance costs. Reading expert reviews and seeking opinions from current owners can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision. Explore the features and options available in the Peugeot 408 to find the best fit.
Explore Financing Options:
Unless you’re purchasing a car outright, exploring financing options is crucial. Research different lenders, banks, and credit unions to find the most competitive interest rates and loan terms. Get pre-approved for a car loan to have a clear understanding of your budget and avoid any last-minute surprises during negotiations. Remember to factor in additional costs like insurance, taxes, and registration fees.
Visit Dealerships and Take Test Drives:
Visiting car dealerships is an opportunity to see the vehicles up close and personal. Schedule test drives for the models you’re interested in, including the new Mercedes-Benz. Pay attention to comfort, handling, acceleration, and overall driving experience. Take note of any features that stand out and ask questions about warranties, service packages, and maintenance schedules.
Consider Buying Used:
Buying a used car can often be a smart financial decision. Pre-owned vehicles tend to have lower price tags and slower depreciation rates compared to new cars. However, it’s essential to have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase. Obtain a vehicle history report and consider certified pre-owned options that come with additional warranties and benefits.
Negotiate with Confidence:
When it’s time to negotiate the price, approach the process with confidence. Research the market value of the car you’re interested in and use that information to negotiate a fair deal. Be prepared to walk away if the terms don’t meet your expectations. Additionally, explore incentives and rebates offered by manufacturers or dealerships to potentially save more money on your purchase.
Consider Long-Term Costs:
Buying a car is not just about the initial price tag; it’s crucial to consider long-term costs. Fuel efficiency, maintenance expenses, insurance premiums, and resale value should all be factored in. Comparing the costs of different models over time will help you make a financially sound decision.
Don’t Rush the Decision:
While the excitement of buying a new car may be tempting, it’s crucial not to rush into a decision. Take your time to compare options, test drive different vehicles, and gather information. Remember that buying a car is a significant investment, and making an informed choice will save you from potential regrets later.
Seek Expert Advice:
If you’re still unsure or overwhelmed by the car-buying process, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. Consulting with a trusted mechanic, car enthusiast, or car-buying service can provide you with valuable insights and guidance. These professionals can help you assess the condition of a used car, decode complex financing terms, and even negotiate on your behalf. Their expertise can streamline the process and ensure that you make a well-informed decision.
Consider the Resale Value:
While it may not be at the forefront of your mind when purchasing a new car, considering the resale value is a prudent move. Cars depreciate over time, but some models retain their value better than others. Research and compare the historical resale values of the vehicles you’re interested in. Opting for a car with a higher resale value can potentially save you money in the long run and provide you with more flexibility if you decide to sell or trade in the vehicle in the future.
Conclusion:
Buying a new car requires careful planning and research. By determining your needs, doing thorough research, exploring financing options, and visiting dealerships, you’ll be well-prepared to negotiate confidently and find the perfect car within your budget. Remember to consider long-term costs and take your time before making a decision. With this ultimate car buying guide, you’re equipped with the tips and tricks needed for a successful purchase. Happy car hunting!
In recent years, vaping has gained immense popularity as an alternative to traditional smoking.
As more people embrace this trend, the demand for vape products has skyrocketed. If you’re a vape enthusiast in the UK, you may have wondered whether it’s better to shop for vape products online or visit a physical store. While both options have their merits, this blog post will explore the advantages of shopping for vape products online. Discover the convenience, variety, affordability, expertise, and privacy that come with choosing to browse and buy from a vape shop online.
Convenience: Shop Anytime, Anywhere
One of the most significant benefits of shopping for vape products online is the unmatched convenience it offers. With a vape shop online, you have the freedom to browse and make purchases at any time of the day, from the comfort of your own home or while on the go. There’s no need to worry about store hours or rushing to make it to a physical location before closing time. By choosing to shop online, you have the ultimate flexibility to explore the vast range of vape products and accessories at your own pace, without any time constraints. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent with limited free time, or simply prefer the ease of online shopping, the convenience factor cannot be overstated.
Extensive Variety: Access to a Wide Range of Products
When you shop for vape products online, you gain access to an extensive variety that may not be available in a physical store. Online retailers often stock a larger inventory due to their virtual nature, ensuring you can find the exact vape product you desire. Whether you’re looking for a specific brand, flavour, or type of vape device, a vape shop online will likely have it in stock. Additionally, online retailers are more likely to offer new and innovative products as they become available, allowing you to stay up to date with the latest trends in the vaping world. The diverse selection available online ensures that you can explore different options and find the perfect vape products to suit your preferences.
Affordable Prices: Discounts and Deals Galore
Another compelling reason to shop for vape products online is the potential for significant cost savings. Online retailers often offer competitive prices and frequently run special promotions, discounts, and deals that you won’t find in physical stores. By taking advantage of these offers, you can enjoy substantial savings on your favourite vape products, allowing you to stretch your vaping budget further. Additionally, some online vape shops offer loyalty programs, reward points, or free shipping on certain orders, further enhancing the affordability factor. With the cost savings offered by online shopping, you can indulge in your vaping hobby without breaking the bank.
Expertise and Guidance: Access to Comprehensive Information
When you visit a physical vape shop, you may rely on the expertise of the store staff to guide you through the purchasing process. However, a vape shop online can provide equally valuable information and guidance, ensuring you make an informed decision. Reputable online retailers often include detailed product descriptions, specifications, and customer reviews on their websites. These resources give you a comprehensive understanding of the vape products you’re interested in, helping you choose the right device or e-liquid based on your preferences. Additionally, many online shops have customer support services, allowing you to ask questions and seek advice before making a purchase. With the wealth of information available online, you can make educated decisions and find the vape products that best suit your needs.
Privacy and Discretion: Shop with Confidence
For many individuals, privacy and discretion are crucial factors when it comes to purchasing vape products. Shopping online provides a level of privacy that may be lacking in physical stores. With a vape shop online, you can explore and buy products without drawing attention or feeling self-conscious. Whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn about vaping discreetly or an experienced vaper who prefers to keep their habits private, online shopping offers the perfect solution. The products are shipped directly to your doorstep, arriving in discreet packaging that respects your privacy. Shopping for vape products online ensures that you can enjoy your vaping experience with peace of mind and without any unnecessary concerns about privacy.
Conclusion:
Shopping for vape products online offers numerous advantages that cater to the needs and preferences of vapers in the UK. The convenience of being able to shop anytime, anywhere, combined with the extensive variety of products available, ensures that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Moreover, the affordability, expert guidance, and privacy provided by online vape shops further enhance the overall experience. If you’re a vape enthusiast in the UK, consider exploring the vast world of vape products available online to enjoy a seamless and satisfying shopping experience. Embrace the benefits of online shopping and discover a new level of convenience, choice, and affordability in the world of vaping.
It follows recent reports of speeding and dangerous driving on some roads, cars ‘drifting’ around roundabouts and doing ‘doughnuts’ in car parks.
The new Gedling Access Road will also be covered under the new plans amid concerns about motorists meeting and causing excess noise.
It comes as part of a new public spaces protection order (PSPO) across a section of the borough in response to reports of nuisance motorists “rearing their heads”.
A PSPO is a legal tool used by councils to crack down on anti-social behaviour and can lead to anyone who breaches them being hit with fines.
The new order will cover parts of the borough near the Colwick Loop Road and the new access road, which have both been the target of car cruisers.
A similar order was in place until 2021 but was not renewed because there had been “no issues” at the time.
However, councillors say problems have since returned amid wider issues going back more than a decade in the area.
The authority says new developments, including the two roads and the Rivendell estate, have led to extra operations being launched by the police.
The council will now take action itself after the order was approved by the Labour cabinet on Thursday (June 8).
The order comes into immediate effect and prohibits any events where cars “congregate”.
It will target motorists driving at excessive speeds or accelerating aggressively, as well as cars racing, performing stunts, playing loud music or driving “in convoy”.
Driving with excessive noise, causing danger to other road users, risk or injury to another person or damage to property are also offences.
Motorists found committing these offences would be asked to give their details to the police or the council and could face £100 fines.
Speaking in the cabinet meeting, Councillor John Clarke (Lab), the council’s leader, says the issue is one of the biggest complaints from residents in his Netherfield ward.
He said: “My [ward] surgery is often full of people complaining about this.
“It echoes right across and you get a lot of complaints from Carlton Ward, where the noise goes right across.
“It’s a continuing nuisance of whining and roaring.”
Cllr David Ellis (Lab), the cabinet member responsible for public protection, added: “The police are aware of a cruiser circuit around Nottinghamshire, which also includes parts of Broxtowe and Rushcliffe.
“This will take Gedling out of that loop and we hope things will be a lot quieter.
“The police have undertaken a lot of enforcement action as part of Operation Triple Fin, including seizing vehicles and reporting people for various traffic offences.
“This PSPO will give them an extra weapon to use so they can reduce the level of nuisance in the area.”
Cllr Sam Smith (Con), who represents the Trent Valley ward which is covered by the PSPO, has also previously backed the order.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service in March: “The noise these drivers have been making, such as screeching their tyres at night or mopeds driving through villages, has been a frustration.
“This should make an improvement to security for businesses and for residents.”
A couple from Arnold have been prosecuted by Gedling Borough Council at Nottingham Magistrates Court for breeding and selling dogs without a licence.
By law, individuals who breed three or more litters within a 12-month period or engage in dog breeding for business purposes must obtain the necessary licence.
Licences are issued by the council and ensure that the breeders act responsibly and within the law, as well as protecting customers’ rights and the safety of the animals.
Following complaints made to the council about illegal puppy breeding, officers investigated a business being ran by Mr Michael Ogden (51) and Mrs Andrea Ogden (32) of Burntstump Hill, Arnold.
Officers found that they were operating without a dog breeding licence and did not have planning permission for business use of the site. The couple also denied breeding three or more litters of puppies, in a 12-month period.
The couple later applied for a dog breeding licence, though this was refused as the kennels at the premises were too small and did not meet the legal requirements. Planning permission was then also sought to develop at the site, however, this was refused due to the impact it would have on the Green Belt and the disruption that would be caused to nearby properties.
The applicants appealed the council’s decision to refuse planning permission, but the decision was upheld by the government’s Planning Inspector.
Despite this, further investigations showed the couple had continued to breed and sell dogs, with puppies being advertised on social media as well as multiple other websites. Documents provided to the council showed the couple had a waiting list for customers to purchase puppies, with some of the animals being priced at over £2,000 each. Despite being warned of potential legal action, the couple continued to breed and sell dogs without a licence and so the council took appropriate enforcement action.
On March 28, 2023, Mr and Mrs. Ogden pleaded guilty to the offence, leading to fines and costs totalling over £3,500.
The council relies on the community’s assistance to identify and address such activities effectively. Residents who suspect cases of illegal dog breeding are encouraged to report them to Gedling Borough Council by email at licensing@gedling.gov.uk or by calling 0115 901 3901
Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said: “The dog breeding licensing process is in place for a reason and we remain committed to ensuring this process is followed for the safety and well-being of our residents and animals.
“We will not hesitate to take firm action against illegal dog breeding operations and this case serves as a reminder that unlicensed breeding activities will not be tolerated in our borough. We urge residents to report any suspicions they may have, and enable us to tackle these issues. By working together, we can continue to protect our community and ensure responsible practices in dog breeding.
He added: “I would like to thank our licensing and legal officers for their work on this case and the residents who came forward to report their concerns.”
Are you there God? It’s me, Margaret (PG) – Bonington Cinema, Arnold
Fri June 9 – Thurs Jun 15
Various Times £6.80pp OR £5pp on Tuesdays
A beloved and best-selling classic comes to the big screen with Lionsgate’s adaptation of Judy Blume’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.
Starring Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, and Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret, this timeless, coming-of-age story has transcended decades and spoken to generations. At 11, Margaret is moving to a new town and beginning to contemplate everything about life, friendship, and adolescence. She relies on her mother (McAdams), who offers loving support but is herself finding her own footing in a new place, and her grandmother Sylvia (Bates), who is coming to terms with finding happiness in the next phase of her life. For all three, questions of identity, one’s place in the world, and what brings meaning to a life will draw them closer together than ever before. From writer-director Kelly Fremon Craig (The Edge of Seventeen) and Gracie Films’ Academy Award®-winning producer James L. Brooks. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. is the theatrical event for everyone who has ever wondered where they fit in.
Book Club: The Next Chapter (12A)– Bonington Cinema, Arnold
Fri June 9 – Wed June 14
Various times – £6.80pp OR £5pp on Tuesdays
The highly anticipated sequel follows our four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had. When things go off the rails and secrets are revealed, their relaxing vacation turns into a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country adventure.
Buddy’s Winter Dance Party – Bonington Theatre, Arnold, 7.30pm
In January 1959 Buddy Holly began a string of dates in the American Mid-West ‘The Winter Dance Party Tour’, this tour included Ritchie Valens, Big Bopper, Dion & The Belmont’s and of course Buddy Holly himself. Sixty-four years on from what would prove to be Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, & Big Boppers last tour – ‘Buddy Holly’s’ Winter Dance Party Show will celebrate the music of the three Icons of Rock n Roll along with Dion & The Belmont’s hits too.
The Village (Beer, Inns & Villains) – a free talk by Bob Massey – Bread and Bitter, Mapperley, 8.00pm
Copo Mojo – Post Modern Jukebox – The Pit @ Newstead, Newstead, 3.00pm
Summer Sunday Session this week will open your ears to a whole new genre for us at The Pit. Copo Mojo are a 5 piece band playing Post Modern Jukebox – expect sax, our very own sound guy John Coulson on double bass and incredible vocal talent from Ines Sampaio Figueiredo.
Zenzerros Wood Fired Pizza Van will be in the car park.
As always bring a camping chair, sit back and enjoy!
Passions run high as Manrico and the Count di Luna compete for the affections of Leonora. Little do they know, Manrico’s mother Azucena has been keeping a terrible secret for decades. Soon a curse from the past will rise up from the ashes with devastating implications for them all. Starring Ludovic Tézier and Jamie Barton, Adele Thomas’s energetic staging sets Verdi’s tale in a Hieronymus Bosch-inspired universe of medieval superstition. Antonio Pappano conducts Verdi’s dramatic score, which features the famous ‘Anvil’ chorus.
OPERA Company – The Royal Opera Music – Giuseppe Verdi
Bob Massey educates and entertains – The Abdication, Daybrook, 7.00pm
An interesting evening with local historian Bob Massey as he tells us about Daybrook’s past. This is a walking tour starting at the pub, walking down to the site of the old Daybrook Station and back again.
Event Cinema : National Theatre Live: Fleabag (15)– Bonington Cinema, Arnold
Thurs 15 & June 16 – Various Times
£12.50pp
Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabagis a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Following a box-office record-breaking run in cinemas in 2019, the one-woman show returns to cinemas to the big screen this summer. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. The hilarious, award-winning play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag, was filmed live on stage in London’s West End in 2019.
Please contact venue to confirm availability and details
A quick word from ‘This is Gedling’ Magazine who sponsor The Vibe
Covering the whole of Gedlng borough ‘This is Gedling’ magazine is being distributed now – you can pick up a FREE copy at your local pub, club, venue, theatre, takeaway.
This is Gedling is a Not for Profit (NfP) community initiative that depends on the support of advertisers, contributors, readers and donors to continue to bring FREE borough news and general interest content to the all 46 square miles and 120k residents of Gedling borough.
Officers have made a significant breakthrough after a public appeal for information prompted a grandson to come forward.
Russell Lowbridge was only four years old when his grandfather, Alfred Swinscoe, went missing in early 1967 after drinking at the Pinxton Miners Arms in Derbyshire.
Family members had been waiting 56 years for answers after Alfred, aged 54 at the time, went missing in mysterious and unusual circumstances.
In the background, Alfred is seen sitting on the step while his daughter Julie and grandson Russell are pictured on the motorbike
Mr Lowbridge contacted police following a media appeal for information about the unidentified remains found in Coxmoor Road on Wednesday, April 26 this year.
DNA tests were carried out on Russell and Alfred’s son, now in his 70s, and matched against the bones exhumed from the ground.
Police have launched a murder investigation and a team of dedicated detectives are working alongside a team of scientists to bring his killer to justice.
Alfred was a father-of-six and a miner, living in the small village of Pinxton in Derbyshire when he went missing.
Alfred worked at Langton Colliery from the age of 14 and was last seen at work on January 20, 1967.
He was ‘a cutter’ known for operating a machine that cut large chunks of coal out of the coal face for others to then break down.
He had the nickname of ‘Sparrow’ and was known as the “Champion Pigeon Man of Pinxton” due to his love of pigeon racing.
Four of his six children are still alive and he has a number of grandchildren.
His last known sighting, the Pinxton Miners Arms in Church Street West, was a popular watering hole for the mining community.
The pub, which no longer exists and has been converted into a house, is a short drive from where his remains were found on Wednesday 26 April.
His family have been informed of the DNA match and are being supported by specially trained officers as this complex investigation continues.
Detectives are now building up a picture of Alfred’s life, his past acquaintances, and a chronological order of what happened the night he went missing.
It is believed that Alfred was drinking with his two sons and friends on the night of his disappearance.
He was last seen at around 10.30pm when he gave his son some money to buy a round and then left to use the outside toilet. He never returned.
Detectives believe Alfred was killed and then buried in farmland around four to 6ft deep.
There were also a number of traumatic injuries found on his skeletal remains, which are undergoing further analysis.
Further tests are also being carried out to determine how he was killed and how long he has been buried at the site in Coxmoor Road.
Work is also being carried out on clothes found with the remains including two distinctive socks and a shoe.
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Griffin said: “I cannot imagine how distressing this must have been for Alfred’s family who have been waiting 56 years for answers.
“Some of Alfred’s family members are no longer alive and will have died never knowing what happened to their loved one that night.
“All they know is Alfred went to the pub one evening and then never came home.
“We know that Alfred was murdered.
“We know this because it is quite obvious that whoever did this buried him in Coxmoor Road in the hope that no one would find him.
“Despite this being a crime that happened more than 50 years ago this will not stop us from using all the investigative skills at our disposal to find those responsible.
“We would like to thank the media and the public for sharing our appeals, which prompted Alfred’s grandson to come forward.
“Last week, we did not know who the man in the field was and had ruled out all three of our ‘no body’ murders through DNA testing.
“We knew the remains were male, between the ages of 40 to 60, and around 5ft 5ins tall. We now have a name. If we can understand how Alfred lived, then we can understand how he died.
“This investigation is moving at speed, and we would like to appeal to members of the public again for their help.
“We would like to hear from anyone with information about Alfred. Did you know him? Did you drink at the Pinxton Miners Arms at the same time as Alfred? Is there any information that could help us understand what happened that night?
“As time passes so do loyalties and we hope that people who may have had information at the time about his disappearance will come forward now.
“It is imperative that we find out what happened to Alfred to not only bring his family the closure they desperately need but to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“His killer left six children without a father. His killer stole any chance of him building the strong and lasting bonds that grandparents have with their grandchildren.
“His killer left them with decades of unanswered questions about what happened to their loved one. We hope with the public’s help we can put that right.”
Standing amid racks of clothing on the Bulwell market stall he’s run for 44 years, Kevin Fitzpatrick delivers a simple and frank answer when asked how things are really going.
He simply thinks the market is ‘dead’.
“The next generation does not want to come on markets because it is just too much hard work now,” he says.
“We’ve been in a downward spiral. People used to follow family but there is no money in it.”
Regular markets selling typical, everyday goods date back hundreds of years, as far back as the Roman Empire and medieval Britain, with a particular boom when market towns were first chartered in the 11th Century.
Market towns bustled with activity for centuries before changing shopping habits and then the impact of high-speed internet connections changed retail forever in the early 21st century.
In Nottingham, the Victoria Centre’s indoor market opened in 1972 and was once home to more than 200 stalls. Now just 26 traders remain.
Those still there wait in limbo for a final decision from Nottingham City Council after it announced it was considering ending the lease 20 months ago, as it looks to save £39m over 50 years at a time when local authorities struggle with finances after a decade of austerity.
A similar fate is feared in Bulwell.
While the market place had a makeover in 2017, with £300,000 spent on regeneration works, it is far from the bustling markets of the 1980s.
“All these years ago a tenner would have been a day’s wages, but £100 now won’t cover wages,” Kevin says.
“Over the years, on the TV and the media, they put us down and used to say all we sold were counterfeit goods.
“If you go abroad, markets are bigged-up, but in the UK it is not.
“There used to be a few decent days here before Covid, but there is no future for markets now.
“The only ones which do well now are the specialist markets.”
The National Association of British Markets (NABMA) first tried to map out the state of markets across the country in 2005 with the commissioning of the Rhodes Survey, which led to extensive discussions in Parliament.
According to NABMA there were between 45,000 to 46,000 traders working markets as of 2009, with an estimated 95,000 people working in retail markets the same year.
Three surveys followed between 2014 and 2018, which revealed trader numbers had dropped to around 32,000 with people employed in the industry down to 57,000.
They highlighted an increasing number of traders going to niche market events, rather than standing at traditional markets, and more traders are now working on a part-time basis only.
NABMA says: “I is now safe to suggest that the number has declined further from the 32,000.”
Stall occupancy has also dropped to an average of 72 per cent, from 77 per cent in 2018, and relatively few markets actually monitor footfall which makes it more difficult to see how markets are really performing.
Mr Fitzpatrick argues the case for the return of a ‘Toby’, a traditional market manager who organises pitches and collects rent.
Now, he says, there are “too many faces running around” Bulwell market to manage it effectively and in a cost-effective way.
The benefits of a Toby in contemporary times have already been seen in Bingham, where the Thursday market has been “thriving”.
The small town of Bingham in Rushcliffe has a market charter and the council commissions Ophelia Marshall as its ‘Toby’ to manage it.
“There is a future in these markets, but what needs to happen is for them to have consistent market managers.” she says.
“I’m a traditional manager and that is an investment on behalf of the council.
“They take the rent, they manage the market, but they also manage the shoppers and so we get a clearer vision on what needs to happen for a market to be successful.
“Event markets are successful because they don’t happen every week. A successful weekly market needs a Toby.
“Every retailer and trader has something for under a fiver. Everyone, every demographic, can afford to take something home.
“Our market is beginning to get spotted, and highlighted for best practice. The biggest factor is that the council is supportive and agile, and Rushcliffe is adapting and supporting the traders, so they are paving the way.”
A Toby, however, requires investment.
The lack of available funds from local councils has furthered the demise of markets, with NABMA saying more than 80 per cent of traditional markets are now owned by local councils.
Many of these councils are cash-strapped, and balancing their budgets is becoming harder every year.
Several local authorities in Nottinghamshire have argued they have attempted to regenerate town centres, but they have been left to compete for money from the Government’s limited Levelling Up pot.
The city council’s portfolio holder for leisure and culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis (Lab), says people’s shopping habits “were already changing” when the pandemic hit.
“It’s an issue that towns and cities across the world are grappling with, and impacts global brands and our high streets as well as traditional markets,” he says.
“The council has provided support to local markets, but of course there’s a limit to what we can do.
“In Bulwell we put a bid in for Levelling Up Funding for town improvements that would have benefited the market, but unfortunately the Government turned it down.
“At Victoria Market we have invested in the market and heavily subsidised its operation for many years. At all local markets we provided support to traders during the pandemic.
“Ultimately, though, it’s up to people whether they choose to shop at markets or not.”
A similar situation to in Bulwell’s is unfolding over in Gedling, despite investment and promises from the borough council.
Arnold’s market place was transformed from the 1960s, upon the demolition of the former British School which was built in the 1860s.
A flea market opened on the site of the old school after 1960, and in 2018 Gedling Borough Council took over the running of the market.
Traders have more recently been moved to Eagle Square, from their original town centre location after 50 years, while work was carried out on the £4m Arnold Market Place (AMP) development.
Arnold market is made up of stalls trading on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, selling products including fruit and veg, fashion and books.
Meanwhile the new AMP development is home to a wine tasting experience, a pet accessory store, a cake shop and a delicatessen, as well as the relocated Post Office.
The council hopes the new offer will increase footfall in the town, ultimately benefiting the existing market, too.
While traders operating in Eagle Square say their new position has better footfall, trader numbers have plummeted from 110 to just five.
David and Mandy Rogers run a stall selling books and other items, and they fear investment has come too little, too late.
“I do not think markets as they are have a future,” Mr Rogers said.
“I am doing OK because we have our regulars.”
“It is a shame but what can you do about it?” Mrs Rogers added.
“I do not think the investment will make a difference. I don’t think the council is bothered, really.
“People are not coming because there aren’t a lot of stalls, but then new stalls only last around two weeks.”
Andrew Webb, who has operated a watch repair stall in Arnold for the past 40 years, echoed similar concerns.
“We will wait with bated breath to see if the investment changes anything,” he said.
“It is a dying trade. Whatever they do would not improve the market, because there is no new blood coming through.”
Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Cllr John Clarke (Lab), added: “Investing in our town centres to encourage growth and regeneration is a key priority for the council.
“Our town centre manager is working closely with local businesses and traders to find out what more we can do to help them and help increase footfall across our town centres.
“We applied to the government on two occasions for Levelling Up funding, which would have allowed us to invest significant amounts of money into improving our town centres, including market areas. Unfortunately, both applications were refused.
“We’ve consulted with market traders who made it clear that they want to stay at the current location at Eagle Square, Arnold, due to its prominent location.
“We will continue to support them here by using money from the UK Shared Prosperity fund to improve the market.
“Our investment in the AMP has seen five new start-up businesses open their doors and has helped revitalise that part of the town centre.”
Some attempt has been made to introduce young blood to the market scene across the country, including with a ‘Teenage Market’ in Kettering.
Some cities have invested heavily in indoor market buildings in the past, including Sheffield which opened its new £18m Moor Market in 2013.
Of its last markets performance report, published in 2022, NABMA says: “There is much to be learnt from the 2021/22 survey and issues raised that the markets industry needs to address going forward.
“While, for example, there is evidence of substantial future investment in new and redeveloped market buildings there are concerns, in particular, about trader numbers and financial viability for many markets.”
