Home Blog Page 7

Boy, 14, charged with attempted murder after girl, 13, seriously injured in Woodthorpe

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after a girl was seriously injured in Woodthorpe.

The incident happened on Friday, April 17 just before 4pm near Wensley Road.

The female victim, aged 13, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Her condition is currently described as stable.

The suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Nottingham Youth Court yesterday (21) charged with attempted murder and carrying a bladed article.

Superintendent James Woolley, who manages county policing, said: “Officers are supporting the victim and her family through this traumatic incident.

“We understand the impact an incident like this will have on the local community.

“I would like to reassure the public we are doing everything we can to understand the circumstances that has led to this attack.  

“We have arrested and charged a 14-year-old boy with attempted murder.”

Anyone who has not already spoken to the police and has any additional information that could help our inquiries are being asked to call 101 quoting incident number 0532 of the 17th April 2026 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Fears £58 million boost to Notts roads could take focus off other services

Nottinghamshire’s set to get an extra £58 million to tackle its crumbling roads but officials say it could come at the cost of other services.

Council documents released ahead of the cabinet meeting on Thursday (April 23) outline the authority’s plans for its second phase of funding for Nottinghamshire’s roads.

Back in March 2026, the Reform-led council announced it would be spending a ‘game-changing’ £122.5 million into the county’s road network in 2026/27 as part of phase one, aiming to resurface and patch around 16 percent of roads.

Now, its cabinet is set to approve an extra £58.75 million for 2026/27, keeping the year’s total spend on roads “the largest investment ever made” in Nottinghamshire’s highways, at £181.25 million.


The boosts of cash comes after a September 2025 survey found about 38 percent of the county’s roads in ‘poor condition’, along with more than half of all road marking being in ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ condition.

But cabinet papers say the authority will need to consider ‘de-prioritising’ other services, activities and schemes across the council if looming money pressures come to fruition.

Within the second wave of money, £15 million of it will be funded from ‘additional borrowing’. When councils borrow money, taxpayer cash is often spent on the interest incurred when paying it off.

The County Council says it does not have the money for this additional debt, and this budget pressure, from its existing budgets, where it will be managed through its ‘annual budget’ process.

Nottinghamshire County Council is also relying on the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) to financially support its investment in the roads by ‘accelerating’ its highway money pots for the council, but documents show this is not yet guaranteed.

To mitigate these cash pressures, a statement in council documents reads: “The council will need to consider de-prioritising other services/activities/schemes across the council which would otherwise be a competing demand on the council’s finite financial resources.

“In plain English terms, if fixing roads is the top priority, other things cannot also be.”

The EMCCA was contacted to confirm its stance on speeding up the cash it gives to the County Council for the highways network. EMCCA refused to provide comment.

In a statement, council leader Mick Barton (Ref) said: “This record-breaking investment is unprecedented and no other council in the country has set aside such levels of funding to improve its roads.

“This is due to the efforts of colleagues and officers here at Nottinghamshire County Council, who have worked tirelessly to put together an investment package using funding from within our own reserves and EMCCA.

“I said we would bring in the money to ensure we have roads we will be proud to drive on, and that hard work is certainly paying off.

“However, this is only the start. We will carry on knocking on the doors of those in Government to make sure we can secure sustained long-term funding for our highways network, which is set out in our six-point plan.”

Both phases of spending should lead to the authority’s highways works backlog being reduced by nearly £100 million, from its peak of £414 million to an estimated £317 million, the council says.

The LDRS asked the authority to clarify what it means by potentially ‘de-prioritising’ other services and areas if money pressures remain. The authority did not provide comment by the time of publication.

About 45 percent of the initial £122.5 million money pot has come from the EMCCA, with the rest provided by the council through money raised in council tax and secured grants.

£100,000 funding boost for new play area at Onchan Park in Carlton

Children and families in Carlton are set to benefit from a major investment in local play facilities after Gedling Borough Council successfully secured £100,000 in funding from FCC Communities Foundation to refurbish the play area at Onchan Park.

The funding will support the development of a new and inclusive play space, ensuring children of all abilities, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, can enjoy safe and engaging outdoor play. 

Works on the new play area is due to start in October and is expected to be completed by winter 2026.

The project has been made possible through a strong partnership between Gedling Borough Council and the Friends of Onchan Park, who carried out extensive community consultation to demonstrate the need for improved facilities in the park.

The park as it looks today

The consultation highlighted how important the play area is for local families and helped shape the vision for a modern space that encourages play, activity and social interaction.

Councillor Viv McCrossen, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy at Gedling Borough Council, said:

“This is fantastic news for Carlton and for families across the borough. Parks and play spaces are incredibly important for children’s development, health and wellbeing, and this investment will help create a modern, inclusive play area that everyone can enjoy.

We’re very grateful to FCC Communities Foundation for supporting this project and to the Friends of Onchan Park who worked closely with us to gather community feedback and champion the need for improved facilities.”

Alison Pritchard, Chair of the Friends of Onchan Park, said:

“The Friends group has worked closely with the community to make sure local voices were heard and that the new play area reflects what families want and need. We are delighted to see this funding secured and look forward to seeing the park become an even more welcoming place for children and families.”

FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community, conservation and heritage projects.

Cheryl Raynor, Grant Manager at the FCC Communities Foundation said:

“FCC Communities Foundation is delighted to support this project, which will provide a high quality, inclusive play space for local children and families. It’s clear that the community values this park, and we’re pleased that our funding will help create a space that everyone can enjoy for many years to come.”

New walking and cycling bridge over Trent opening date revealed

A new walking and cycling bridge over the River Trent near Colwick will officially open to the public in June.

After a ribbon cutting ceremony where children from local schools will join Councillors and other officials to declare the crossing open, the bridge will be open for the public to cross for the first time, along with the new bridge over Trent Basin. 

The newly widened and surfaced riverside footpath on the south side of the river will open for use on June 2.

To celebrate the opening of the bridge, there will also be a free community fun day on Sunday, June 14, 2026, with activities and stalls on both the north and south banks of the river, including food and drink, community performances, free activities for children and adults including crafts, face painting and games and a focus on STEM (science technology, engineering and maths) and sports activities.

Work has been continuing with preparations to open the new bridge later this summer.

Upgrades to the riverside path have been taking place,with the top surface still to go on. It will re-open at the same time as the new bridge opens.

Amphitheatre (the spiral/ shell shaped section approaching the bridge with built in seating and planting) works are continuing.

The southside ramps and stairs are now in place after being delivered last month.

More than 140 vehicles stopped and 47 arrested during police road safety crackdown

Police teams stopped more than 140 vehicles and made 47 arrests during a month-long operation focused on road safety across the borough.

Operation Highways is a hyper-local, intelligence-led initiative that deploys additional resources to specific neighbourhood areas to tackle issues like speeding, untaxed and uninsured drivers.

Roads Policing officers conducted a total of 141 vehicle stops, made 47 arrests and seized 52 vehicles when they headed out on Gedling’s roads during March.

The proactive initiative also led to five seizures of drugs and two weapon seizures.

Officers also engaged with communities in areas including Burton Joyce, Calverton, Arnold, Woodthorpe and Ravenshead.

Inspector Steven King, local area commander for Gedling, said: “Road safety is raised time and again as a priority for residents, whether that be at community engagement events, in surveys or in conversations with officers.

“Issues like persistent speeding and antisocial behaviour on our roads have a detrimental impact on people’s lives and we want to do everything we can to help.

“Proactive operations like this can make a real difference by targeting resources where they are needed.

“I’m grateful to the Roads Policing officers for their efforts during March and they were in the right place at the right time to pull over a number of uninsured and untaxed drivers.

“They were also able to seize drugs and weapons and target those using our road network for criminality.”

Beyond the Track: The Art of Personalized Youth Motocross Culture

0

For young riders, motocross is more than just a sport. It’s a lifestyle that’s filled with excitement, creativity, and self-expression.

From the roar of the engines to the thrill of landing a jump, every moment on the track becomes part of a bigger identity. Beyond the racing itself, there’s a growing culture centered on personalization where young riders turn their bikes and gear into reflections of who they are.

One of the most popular ways to stand out is through custom visuals like KLX 100 dirt bike graphics. These designs allow riders to transform a standard bike into something unique and eye catching. Whether they feature bold colors, racing numbers, or creative patterns, graphics kits help young motocross enthusiasts feel more connected to their ride and more confident on the track.

More Than Just a Bike

For many kids, their dirt bike quickly becomes more than just a piece of equipment; it becomes part of their identity. Just like athletes in other sports take pride in their uniforms, motocross riders take pride in how their bikes look and perform. Personalization helps create a sense of ownership and pride. When a rider sees their own style reflected in their bike, it builds confidence and adds excitement every time they gear up. This connection can make practice sessions more enjoyable and motivate riders to keep improving their skills.

How Style Fits Into Youth Culture

Motocross has always had a strong visual culture, influenced by racing teams, professional riders, and evolving design trends. Younger riders naturally look up to these influences and want to bring a similar sense of style to their own bikes. Graphics, helmet designs, and riding gear all play a role in shaping a rider’s image. Bright colors, bold fonts, and custom themes can help a young rider stand out in a crowd.

In the world of motocross, style isn’t just about looking good. It’s about feeling like part of the motocross community. Still, this creative aspect of the sport also encourages individuality. No two riders are exactly alike, and their bikes don’t have to be either.

Building Confidence Through Customization

Confidence is a huge part of success in motocross. Riders need to trust themselves as they navigate jumps, turns, and varying terrain. Personalizing a bike can play more of a role in building that confidence than many people realize.

When a rider feels proud of their bike, they often feel more prepared and motivated. It creates a sense of readiness and excitement that carries over into their performance. Even small changes, like updated graphics or matching gear, can boost a rider’s mindset. For younger riders especially, these details can make a big difference in how they approach the sport.

A Creative Outlet for Young Riders

Motocross isn’t always seen as a creative activity, but personalization options open the door to artistic expression. Choosing colors, themes, and designs allows kids to explore their creativity in a hands-on way. Some riders prefer clean, professional looks that are inspired by racing teams while others lean toward bold and playful designs.

This freedom to experiment helps kids develop a sense of personal style while staying engaged with the sport. It also creates opportunities for family involvement. As parents and kids work together to choose and apply custom elements to a bike, it helps create bonds that last a lifetime.

Where Passion Meets Personality

As motocross continues to grow, personalization is likely to become an even bigger part of the experience. Advances in design technology and materials are making it easier than ever to create custom looks that are both durable and affordable. For young riders, this means more opportunities to express themselves while developing their skills. It reinforces the idea that motocross isn’t just about competition; it’s about passion, creativity, and identity.

Beyond the track, youth motocross culture thrives on individuality and expression. Customization allows riders to take ownership of their journey and turn every ride into something personal and meaningful. By blending performance with creativity, young riders don’t just participate in motocross, they help shape it. In doing so, they build confidence, connections, and a lifelong love for the sport.

How Tournaments Work on Non-GamStop Poker Sites

Poker is just one aspect of online gaming, but in terms of competitive aspects of the game, there is no limit to the size of the field in which UK-based players can compete. To this end, many UK-based players have turned to best non gamstop sites.

While most non-GamStop poker sites provide competitive tournaments, they do so using formats that are similar to GamStop-licensed sites. This article will look into the format of tournaments offered, the amount of money available in each tournament, and the degree to which customer protection exists within their platform.

What Are Non-GamStop Poker Sites?

Non-GamStop poker sites do not adhere to the laws set forth by the UK Gambling Commission. Since they are outside of the commission’s jurisdiction, they are not tied into the nationwide exclusion program known as GamStop. Instead, they are regulated by a number of internationally recognised regulatory agencies, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or Curaçao eGaming.

With an international license to operate, players who register with them are able to play without GamStop at higher levels than would be possible under the UKGC‘s restrictions. Additionally, due to the less restrictive nature of the regulations surrounding non-GamStop poker sites, players are provided a broader selection of games and tournaments to choose from.

What Tournament Formats Can You Expect From Non-GamStop Poker Sites?

There are numerous different types of tournament formats that non-GamStop poker sites support. Although they have a lot of similarities in terms of how they function, there can be quite a bit of variation when it comes to buy-ins and Tournament structures.

In a freezeout style Tournament each participant has the same amount of chips when they start the game. When those chips are lost, so is the participant. As there are no re-buys permitted and therefore participants have no chance of entering again in a different table, this style of Tournament is purely based on ability rather than luck.

Another popular format among online casinos without self-exclusion is re-entry tournaments. Re-entry tournaments permit participants to purchase additional entries if their initial stack of chips is depleted prior to the end of the Tournament registration. Although these events create a greater pool of prizes through increased participation, there will likely be an increase in aggressive competition in the beginning stages of the event.

Rebuys are very similar to re-entries; however, instead of players having the ability to buy back into the Tournament after losing all of their chips, players can purchase additional chips before they are knocked out. Many players prefer to use rebuys because it allows them to grow a larger stack of chips earlier in the Tournament than they would by entering through re-entry and possibly getting knocked out early.

How Do Prize Pools and Buy-Ins Work On Non-GamStop Poker Sites?

The primary source of funds used for creating prize pools at non-GamStop poker sites is comprised entirely of player buy-in amounts. Entry costs at many offshore casinos for UK players vary greatly, ranging from freerolls where participants pay nothing to enter to high roller events that can charge very substantial buy-in amounts.

 Most buy-ins appear in one of two forms: for example, “£50 + £5”. The larger amount (£50) is placed directly into the prize pool, whereas the lower amount (£5) is used as the house rake.

Since many GamStop-free casinos cater to a global network of players, these sites typically generate larger prize pools. Larger pools result from a greater diversity of participants competing globally, supporting higher guarantees and better scheduled tournaments.

With such a diverse group of participants supporting multiple large guarantee tournaments, many events occur throughout the day, providing continuous activity for players. No other UK-based gaming platform offers this consistent amount of tournaments and frequency.

Progressive Knockouts and Other Variants

A lot of UK casino alternatives that operate from outside the United Kingdom have adopted new formats, including progressive knockout (PKO). With PKO events, a portion of each purchase price becomes a bounty on each participant.

When you remove another participant from the event, you will get a percentage of their bounty, while the remainder will be added to yours. Therefore, the longer you last in a tournament and the number of players you knock out, the larger your potential winnings.

Non-GamStop poker sites also include many additional common formats. Some of the most well-known include turbo and hyper-turbo events, which have an increased speed of blinds. These styles encourage players to make rapid decision-making.

Satellite formats allow you to enter larger tournaments at a lower price. Sit-n-go poker sessions occur as soon as enough players are registered; it offers a flexible way to play poker in addition to being a convenient option.

Non-GamStop Poker Sites Payments Methods

The ability to use different payment methods when moving money around is very important for those who participate in tournaments. A reason why crypto casinos not on GamStop are so well liked by some people is due to how fast they process transactions using Blockchain technology, for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum.

In addition, fast withdrawal non-GamStop casinos allow users to withdraw using e-wallets, debit/credit cards, wire transfers, and others. Most times, a player needs only to complete a verification process for identity at higher withdrawal limits, so a new user may register quickly and play immediately without having to wait extended periods of time.

A Note on Safety

While non-GamStop poker sites can be more flexible in terms of how you spend money, it’s still ultimately up to each individual to do their own due diligence when it comes to ensuring the site they’re playing on is safe. Before you make a deposit to any site (including non-GamStop), ensure the operator has an active, valid license from a recognised international regulator

Tournaments offered on non-GamStop poker sites are based on well-known tournament structures such as freezeouts, re-entries, PKO satellites, and turbo tournaments. For UK players looking for UK casino alternatives, these sites are very strong and competitive.

Latest planning applications submitted to Gedling Borough Council

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

These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.

Approval of details reserved by conditions 3 (materials) 4 (car parking plan) and 5 (landscaping plan) of planning permission 2024/0517
284 Longdale Lane, Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2026/0230DOC

Felling of 1 fir tree, felling of 1 willow, and pruning of 1 Himalayan birch by 1 metre,
34,Main Street, Woodborough
Ref. No: 2026/0223TCA 

Two storey side extension, new porch and single storey front and rear extension to form annexe at ground floor level.
58, Sandfield Road, Arnold
Ref. No: 2026/0217 

Two storey side and rear extensions to dwelling, single storey rear extension, raising of roof height, loft conversion and rear dormer.
3 Calstock Road, Woodthorpe
Ref. No: 2026/0214

Discharge of conditions 4, 23 and 27 of planning permission 2025/0702 Nottinghamshire Fire And Rescue Headquarters Bestwood Lodge Drive Bestwood Nottinghamshire NG5 8PD
Ref. No: 2026/0210DOC

Discharge of conditions 3, 5 and 7 of planning permission 2025/0701 Nottinghamshire Fire And Rescue Headquarters Bestwood Lodge Drive Bestwood Nottinghamshire NG5 8PD
Ref. No: 2026/0212DOC

Part demolition of existing single storey side extension. Proposed single storey side extension.
14, Bleasdale Close, Gedling
Ref. No: 2026/0209

Permission in principle – up to Six Dwellings
Lambley Caravan Storage, Spring Lane, Lambley 
Ref. No: 2026/0222

Variation of condition 2 (approved drawings) of planning permission 2021/0737 (alterations to plot 9)
96, Plains Road, Mapperley
Ref. No: 2026/0207 

Construction of conservatory to rear of dwelling.
285, Main Road, Ravenshead
Ref. No: 2026/0208

Approval of details reserved by conditions 4 (landscaping) and 7 (CEMP) of planning permission 2023/0084
326, Spring Lane Lambley
Ref. No: 2026/0201DOC

Proposed first floor side extension over existing ground floor addition, convert part garage to activity room and WC and a proposed two-storey rear extension
44 Walsingham Road, Woodthorpe 
Ref. No: 2026/0205

Application to discharge condition 4 (materials and architectrual details) of approval 2024/0595
12, Forest Lane, Papplewick
Ref. No: 2026/0202DOC

Full planning application for residential development (154 dwellings) including affordable housing with associated access, drainage, public open space and play space.
Land South of Oxton Road, Calverton
Ref. No: 2026/0189

Retention of detached annexe.
Big Tithe Farm Bungalow, Old Rufford Road, Calverton
Ref. No: 2025/0842 

Retention of bay window extension to existing dwelling.
Big Tithe Farm, Bungalow Old Rufford Road, Calverton
Ref. No: 2025/0841 

Retention of two replacement agricultural buildings, bio room extension and drainage pond.
Big Tithe Farm, Bungalow Old Rufford Road, Calverton
Ref. No: 2025/0840

Free community screening of climate change film in Mapperley

Residents of Gedling borough are being invited to attend a free screening of a powerful new short film on climate change.

The screening of “The People’s Emergency Briefing” is being organised by Gedling Climate Change Group and will take place at St James’ Church on Marshall Hill Drive in Mapperley on Monday, April 20 at 7.30pm.

This screening is Nottinghamshire’s first community showing of the new film.

Designed for a broad public audience, the film explores growing concerns around nature loss and climate change, cutting through misinformation, greenwashing, and uncertainty to provide clear, accessible insights into the challenges we face, and what individuals and communities can do in response.

The screening will be followed by an open discussion, offering attendees the opportunity to share perspectives and engage with others on these urgent issues.

A spokesman for Gedling Climate Change Group: “This free event aims to bring the community together in a constructive and informative setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends and join a growing number of people seeking positive change.”

Crowds flock to retail park for opening of new store in Arnold

A brand-new The Food Warehouse store opened in Arnold on Tuesday (14) and 110 customers were eagerly waiting in line for the doors to open.

To celebrate the grand opening, the Arnold store gave away £1,500 worth of store vouchers to the first 150 customers in the queue.

Raffle tickets were also given to each person in the queue before 7:45am, with seven lucky customers winning a Tower Air Fryer, as well as one shopper taking home a Daewoo Double Drawer Air Fryer.

Five other customers also won the chance to take part in a 90 second supermarket sweep-style trolley dash, filling their trolleys for free.

PICTURED: The new Food Warehouse in Daybrook

Michael Smart, Store Manager at The Food Warehouse, Madford Retail Park, said: “We’re so pleased to welcome shoppers to our brand new The Food Warehouse store. Everyone was so excited for the grand opening – people started queuing from 3:30am! 

“If you haven’t been down yet, make sure to check out our brand-new store and get your hands on some unmissable deals!” 

To celebrate the opening, customers are able to shop a number of exclusive deals live until April 20.

Anyone attending the new store opening week can make the most of the following offers:

  • Pepsi Max Cans – 24 pack, £7.00 – was £12.00
  • Cushelle Original Toilet Tissue – 32 pack, £12.50 – was £17.00
  • Walkers Crisps – 20 pack, £3.25 – was £5.25
  • Surf – 95 washes, £7.50 – was £10.00
  • McVitie’s Value Pack Biscuits, 2 pack, £2.00 each – was £3.00
  • White Rock Water – 18 pack, £3.00 – was £3.80
  • Cadbury’s Multipack Chocolate Bars – 9 or 7 pack, £2.00 each – was £2.50

Those who are interested in applying for a role at the new Arnold store should visit www.icelandcareers.co.uk