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Meet the Gedling cleaner celebrating 50 years of service with the NHS

If you’ve ever visited Duncan Macmillan House (DMH), on Porchester Road, in Mapperley, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Pauline Roebuck. Well known and loved by staff and visitors alike, Pauline has been a friendly and familiar face at DMH for the past 50 years, providing support in her role as a cleaner.

Pauline first walked through the doors on April 30, 1975, starting her NHS career as a cleaner. Over the decades, she became a cornerstone of the site, known for her kindness, reliability, and dedication. While she occasionally covered at other sites, such as The Wells Road Centre when the School of Nursing first opened and Thornywood Mount for a short time, DMH has always been her home.

When Pauline began her career, Duncan Macmillan House (DMH) was part of the historic Mapperley Hospital, which had provided psychiatric care in Nottingham since 1880. Named after Dr Duncan Macmillan, a pioneering psychiatrist who transformed mental health services in Nottinghamshire. Over the years, Pauline witnessed the Trust evolve — from developing specialist mental health services to expanding community care.

In 1994, the NHS underwent major changes with the introduction of NHS Trusts, giving hospitals greater financial independence. Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust was formally established in 2001, bringing together a range of mental health services and expanding its focus to include adult and older people’s mental health. The Trust continued to grow, later integrating community health services to bring care closer to home.

Pauline’s career spanned key national healthcare milestones, such as the birth of the world’s first test-tube baby in 1978, the introduction of MRI scanning in the 1980s, and the shift towards community-based care in the 1990s. Her journey mirrors the evolution of both the Trust and the NHS, reflecting decades of change and progress in patient care.

Reflecting on this achievement, Ifti Majid, Chief Executive said: “Pauline has been a familiar and friendly face at DMH for five decades, and her 50 years of service is a truly remarkable achievement. Her kindness, dedication, and hard work have made a lasting impression on everyone who’s had the pleasure of working alongside her. Pauline embodies the values of the NHS, and we are incredibly grateful for everything she has done – I was delighted to be able to present Pauline with her 50-year NHS badge and certificate at a recent presentation event.”

Executive Director of Finance and Estates, Alison Wyld added: “Pauline’s extraordinary 50-year milestone is a testament to her unwavering commitment and the vital role our non-clinical colleagues play in keeping services running smoothly. She has been a constant source of support, not only ensuring our facilities are cared for but also creating a warm and welcoming environment for everyone at DMH. Pauline’s legacy is something to be celebrated, and we look forward to her continued presence at the Trust.”

Reflecting on her time with the Trust, Pauline said: “I started at Duncan Macmillan House when my mum was working here, beginning as a cleaner on Cavel Ward – a lovely older persons’ ward where I spent 14 years. Over the years, I’ve seen so many changes, both in the buildings and across the NHS. I’ve worked across different sites, from the doctors’ houses on Porchester Road and Wells Road to Westminster House, Thornywood, and the School of Nursing.

“One special memory was a visit from Dr Duncan Macmillan’s son and wife—such a reminder of the history here. It’s been wonderful bumping into people I worked with years ago, some of whom were just starting their NHS careers as trainees in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Back in the day, we used buffing machines, and I even did my NVQ in Customer Service—how times have changed! But what hasn’t changed is the camaraderie, the laughs, and the rewarding nature of the job. I’ve loved my 50 years here, and I’m proud to say I’m carrying on—no stopping yet, even beyond retirement!”

To honour this exceptional milestone, the Trust recently held a special presentation at DMH, attended by colleagues, friends, and senior leaders, to thank Pauline for her outstanding service. The event was a heartfelt celebration of her remarkable career, with the Trust expressing their deepest gratitude and looking forward to her continued contribution.

Full list of road closures and roadworks planned across Gedling borough

There are a number of road closures in place across Gedling borough this week that drivers should be aware of.

Some roads are closed while others have lane closures. Temporary traffic measures or diversion routes may also be in place on roads in the region. Motorists are urged to make allowances for these closures and alter their travel arrangements if necessary.

If you’re planning to travel through the borough over the next few weeks take a look at the list below to see whether your journey will be affected.

Arnold

Killisick Road, Arnold
30 April – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Brookfield Road, Arnold
02 May – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Hawthorn Crescent, Arnold
02 May – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Bestwood

No roadworks scheduled

Burton Joyce

Nottingham Road, Burton Joyce
02 May – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Nottingham Road, Burton Joyce
05 May – 07 May
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Calverton

Bonner Lane, Calverton
06 May – 08 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Roadworks

Carlton

Foxhill Road Central, Carlton
29 April – 30 April
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Station Road, Carlton
01 May
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Colwick

Vale Road, Colwick
06 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Daybrook

No roadworks scheduled

Gedling

Burton Road, Gedling
01 May – 06 May
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Virgin Media

Stoke Lane, Gedling
02 May – 03 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Braemar Drive, Gedling
06 May – 08 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Lambley

No roadworks scheduled

Linby

No roadworks scheduled

Mapperley

Hallam Road, Mapperley
29 April – 30 April
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Hickling Road, Mapperley
30 April – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Kent Road, Mapperley
06 May – 07 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Traffic management: Traffic control (give & take)

Kent Road, Mapperley
06 May – 07 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Openreach

Netherfield

Papplewick

Moor Road, Papplewick
06 May – 24 June
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Cadent

Ravenshead

Redhill

Mansfield Road, Redhill
02 May – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

No roadworks scheduled

Woodborough

Main Street, Woodborough
01 May – 02 May
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Woodthorpe

Mansfield Road, Woodthorpe
29 April – 30 April
Roadworks, Delays likely
Responsibility for works: Severn Trent Water

Woodborough Road, Mapperley
30 April
Roadworks, Delays possible
Responsibility for works: Nottinghamshire County Council

Are these National Lottery numbers cursed? One digit hasn’t been seen for five months and is ‘Overdue!’

New research from BoyleSports has revealed the most ‘overdue’ National Lottery numbers, including number 21, which hasn’t been seen for almost half a year, as well as the least frequently drawn digits over the last decade.

For those who pay close attention to lottery trends, fresh analysis from BoyleSports might prompt a rethink of number-picking tactics when placing a lotto bet.

With the National Lottery conducting draws twice a week, every result is completely random, yet some numbers have gone longer than others without being drawn – whether that changes soon remains to be seen.

BoyleSports’ insight spans nearly a decade, covering all 996 draws since the lottery expanded to 59 balls in October 2015 up to Wednesday’s draw on the 23rd April 2025, which saw the jackpot roll over to Saturday.

Their findings highlight which numbers have been drawn the least and which have been missing for the longest stretch.

Topping the list of the most overdue numbers is ball 21, last appearing 145 days ago on 30th November 2024.

Following closely behind, 49 hasn’t been drawn for 134 days, while 16 has been absent for 110 days.

Ball 23 last appeared 89 days ago, and both 25 and 32 have gone unseen for 82 days.

The Most Overdue Numbers In Full:

  • 21 – Last drawn 145 days ago (Saturday, 30th November 2024)
  • 49 – Last drawn 134 days ago (Wednesday, 11th December 2024)
  • 16 – Last drawn 110 days ago (Saturday 4th January 2025)
  • 23 – Last drawn 89 days ago (Saturday 25th January 2025)
  • 25 – Last drawn 82 days ago (Saturday 1st February 2025)
  • 32 – Last drawn 82 days ago (Saturday 1st February 2025)

Will they finally resurface soon or remain elusive for even longer?

Not only has 21 been missing for the longest period of time, but it’s also the least frequently drawn number in history, appearing just 87 times since the lottery expanded in 2015.

Ball 48 hadn’t been seen since October last year until Wednesday 16th April 2025, and is the joint second least frequent digit alongside 30, sharing the same low total of 88, while 18, 6 and 55 have slightly higher counts but remain relatively rare.

The Least Frequently Drawn Numbers In Full:

  • 21 – Drawn 87 times, last seen 145 days ago
  • 48 – Drawn 88 times, last seen 8 days ago
  • 30 – Drawn 88 times, last seen 5 days ago
  • 18 – Drawn 90 times, last seen 29 days ago
  • 6 – Drawn 91 times, last seen 36 days ago
  • 55 – Drawn 91 times, last seen 12 days ago

While the National Lottery remains a game of pure chance, the intriguing patterns behind certain numbers – like the elusive ball 21 – continue to capture the attention of those who track these trends.

Whether these ‘overdue’ numbers will make a dramatic return or remain absent for even longer is anyone’s guess, but, as always, it’s important to remember that every draw is entirely random. No number is truly ‘cursed.’

For those who enjoy the thrill of following the numbers, it will be interesting to see which ones break their long streaks of silence in future draws.

Jail terms for duo behind Colwick knifepoint robbery that left teenagers with slash wounds

A duo responsible for a knifepoint robbery in Colwick where two 14-year-old boys were slashed in the face have now been jailed.

Ringleader William McLatchie and accomplice James Jordan between them subjected a group of four teenagers to a terrifying ordeal.

The quartet were walking through Colwick in the early hours of the morning when McLatchie and Jordan suddenly appeared and threatened them with knives.

All the boys – aged either 14 or 15 at the time – were then forced to hand over their phones to the armed duo.

William McLatchie was described as the ringleader

James Jordan was four days into his own trial when he made the decision to change his plea

Despite already having the phones in his and Jordan’s possession, McLatchie – then 25 – still decided to use the knife he was carrying before fleeing from the scene with Jordan, who was 18 at the time.

Two 14-year-old boys were left with slash wounds to their face and neck areas, with one of the victims requiring ten stitches for his injuries.

That attack around 1.30am on April 21, 2019 came only a few hours after McLatchie committed another violent robbery the night before – this time in Calverton.

On this occasion, McLatchie attacked a man in his fifties from behind and assaulted him while he lay on the ground – leaving his victim with a broken nose and other facial injuries.

The 31-year-old also helped himself to the other man’s bank card during the incident, which was later used to buy items from a shop.

McLatchie and Jordan were implicated for their roles in the respective robberies soon after, but both initially denied doing anything wrong when the charges were put to them.

After taking his case to trial, McLatchie was found guilty of committing five robberies, two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and fraud by false representation.

Jordan, now 24, was four days into his own trial when he made the decision to change his plea and admitted to carrying out four robberies, as well as one count of fraud by false representation.

Both men appeared before Nottingham Crown Court to be sentenced for their crimes on Thursday (April 24).

McLatchie, of Stinford Close, Bestwood Park, was jailed for nine years.

Jordan, now of Exeter Road, Okehampton, Devon, received a prison sentence of three years and seven months.

Detective Sergeant Elina Falcon, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “It’s impossible to overstate just how serious the offences McLatchie and to a lesser extent Jordan committed against their victims.

“Both of them subjected a group of teenage boys to a horrible ordeal after running at them while armed with knives and ordering them to hand over their phones.

“Despite each of them doing this and with the spoils of their robbery already in his possession, that seemingly wasn’t enough for McLatchie who instead decided to slash at his victims with his knife.

“This cowardly act left two of the boys with gashes to their face and neck areas that required stitches, on top of the emotional ordeal each of them had already suffered at the hands of the two robbers.

“That attack came just a few hours after McLatchie – this time acting on his own – robbed someone else of their bank card, while breaking his victim’s nose in the process.

“It can’t be stressed enough how serious a crime robbery is, due to the life-changing impact these offences can have on victims, whether from a physical or an emotional standpoint.

“While a long time has passed since their ordeals, we hope the prison sentences now handed out to McLatchie and Jordan will provide some small degree of comfort to the people they targeted.”

MATCH REPORT: Linby Colliery 0-1 Melbourne Dynamo

Despite having the majority of chances, Linby fell to a narrow defeat in their last home match of the campaign.

Ash Bernard and Zach Hamilton saw first-half efforts cleared off the line before the visitors took the lead on Issac Nkumrah on 35 mins.

Dynamos keeper Tom Cox made two great saves late in the second half to foil Bernard and deny Linby the point they deserved.

Linby were also denied what looked a certain penalty for a foul on Josh Wass.

With only one away match left, next Saturday at Melbourne Dynamo to play, Linby could possibly achieve a third place finish in the league.

Schools Bill will result in cheaper uniform costs for parents and carers, ministers claim

The parents of four million children will get cheaper school uniforms because of a law reform making its way to the House of Lords this week.

The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will reduce uniform costs for families by £70 million across England, according to analysis by the Department for Education.

It comes as a new survey shows a third of parents are still worried about uniform costs, with one in five schools said to have actually increased the number of branded items required over the past year.

Schools are currently required to ‘limit’ the number of branded items they require, today’s survey shows almost half are not doing so.

The government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will limit the number of branded, typically more expensive, items schools can require to three – excluding ties.

Parents are having to pay £442 on average to kit a child out for secondary school, and £343 for primary school, putting unnecessary financial pressure on families.

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: “Looking smart at school shouldn’t cost the earth, and no parent should be forced to choose between buying family essentials and a school shirt or tie.

“Alongside our free breakfast clubs, these new laws will save parents hundreds of pounds a year, and make sure family finances have no bearing on children’s time at school.”

Latest planning applications put before Gedling Borough Council

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

This is a round-up of the latest plans that the council’s planning officers have validated.

These applications will now be decided by Gedling borough planners.

More details can be found on the Gedling Borough Council planning site HERE by using the reference codes published below.

Application to change the use of dwelling (3a) to a children’s home (C2) for up to three children, with a manager and up to three carers, two of whom would stay overnight, working on a rota basis
12 Overstrand Close Arnold
Ref. No: 2025/0299

Proposed new build 4 bedroom dwelling
11A Glen Road Burton Joyce
Ref. No: 2025/0295

Single storey rear extension
19 Seaton Way Mapperley
Ref. No: 2025/0293

Approval of details reserved by conditions 4 (BNG) and 5 (HMMP) of planning permission 2024/0740
Land At Magenta Way Stoke Bardolph
Ref. No: 2025/0294DOC

Proposed single storey rear extension
30 Main Road Gedling
Ref. No: 2025/0290

Erection of a single-storey flat roof rear extension and single storey flat roof rear and side extension
12 Curzon Avenue Carlton
Ref. No: 2025/0289

Single storey garden room for private use
19 Marlborough Road Woodthorpe
Ref. No: 2025/0286

Proposed extension and internal alterations to create kitchen /dining to ground floor, 2no. bedrooms with one with en-suite to first floor. conversion of existing garages to family snug and play room
25 Crosslands Meadow Colwick
Ref. No: 2025/0263

Proposed two storey extension
70 Main Road Gedling
Ref. No: 2025/0125

Road closure in Gedling forces Nottingham City Transport to change route as work begins to remove controversial bus plug

A bus route is set to change for several months as work gets underway to restore two lanes to a section of Burton Road in Gedling.

Burton Road will close at from its junction with Elliott Drive to its junction with Colliery Way for around ten weeks from today (April 28) until Friday, July 4.

During these works, Pathfinder 26/A and N26 will divert along Stoke Lane and A612 Colwick Loop Road in both directions.

Cars are being warned that they cannot follow the bus diversion as cameras are in place.

The move to remove the bus plug comes following persistent lobbying by Gedling Borough councillors Mike Adams, and Sam Smith, who also represent Trent Valley that was also backed by a petition signed by hundreds of local residents.

Nottinghamshire County Council approved funding for the removal as part of its 2025/26 Integrated Transport Block programme.

The bus plug was originally introduced as part of the historic Colwick Loop Road improvement but became redundant following the opening of the Gedling Access Road (GAR) – now known as Colliery Way.

Since then, the unnecessary traffic lights have only caused additional delays to motorists and increased emissions due to idling vehicles.

Rainy day plans in Gedling: How to stay entertained even when it rains

When the skies over Gedling turn grey and rain starts to fall, outdoor plans might take a backseat—but that doesn’t mean boredom has to set in. Whether you’re looking for a quiet moment alone or something social to pass the time, Gedling offers a surprising variety of indoor activities. From cosy cafés and community hubs to online gaming and heritage spots, there’s plenty to keep you entertained while the weather does its thing.

Online Escapes: Gaming and Casinos at Home

For those who prefer staying home on a rainy day, online gaming and casino platforms offer an easy way to pass the time without stepping outside. From strategy-based multiplayer games to digital versions of classic card favourites, there’s something for every preference. Some residents in Gedling have also turned to online poker nights with friends or joined communities where local players compete for small stakes in a friendly setting.

Online casinos, offering slots, roulette, and table games, have seen a rise in interest as people look for flexible entertainment options. Many of the best non-GamStop casinos offer players near-instant payouts through flexible transaction methods across thousands of casino games as well as enticing bonuses like welcome rewards, free spins, and cashback offers. It’s all about bringing that buzz of competition to your living room—no umbrella needed.

Catch a Film at Bonington Theatre in Arnold

A short trip from the heart of Gedling, Bonington Theatre in Arnold is a great spot to enjoy a film or live show. With a rotating selection of indie films, classics, and new releases, it’s ideal for anyone looking to escape the rain with a good story. The venue also hosts community theatre, comedy, and music nights, making it more than just a cinema—it’s a cultural hub for locals.

Visit Gedling Country Park Café

While the park itself might not be ideal in the rain, the café inside the Gedling Country Park visitor centre provides a warm and welcoming indoor space. Grab a hot drink and a slice of cake while looking out at the dramatic rain-soaked landscape from the panoramic windows. It’s especially relaxing if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere when the weather keeps most visitors away.

Browse the Local History in Gedling Library

Tucked away but worth the visit, Gedling Library is more than just books. Its local history section offers insights into the area’s mining past and community development. Rainy days are perfect for getting lost in old maps, black-and-white photographs, or a gripping historical novel. With public computers, free Wi-Fi, and regular events, the library doubles as a learning space and social venue.

Enjoy a Cosy Afternoon at a Gedling Café

Independent cafés are scattered around Gedling and neighbouring Carlton, perfect for waiting out the rain with a warm drink. Try The V Spot on Carlton Hill for plant-based treats or wander into Bluebird Café, known for its friendly staff and laid-back vibe. Many spots are laptop-friendly, making them useful for remote work or a casual afternoon of reading and people-watching.

Take a Class at a Local Community Centre

Gedling’s community centres often run classes and workshops regardless of the weather. Whether it’s pottery at the Mapperley Plains Institute or yoga at Killisick Community Centre, you’ll find something engaging to do inside. It’s a great way to meet locals, learn a new skill, or just break up the routine on an otherwise quiet day.

Explore Nottinghamshire’s Indoor Attractions Nearby

If you’re up for a short drive, rainy weather is a perfect excuse to visit nearby indoor attractions. The National Justice Museum in Nottingham offers an immersive experience into the history of crime and punishment. The City of Caves, also in Nottingham, takes you beneath the streets for a guided tour of the hidden world carved into sandstone. Both are well worth it for something a bit different.

Conclusion 

Rainy days in Gedling don’t have to mean staying bored indoors. From cosy cafés to engaging online games, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained while waiting for the weather to clear. Whether it’s exploring local history at the library, enjoying a film at Bonington Theatre, or taking part in a class at a community center, Gedling offers a variety of indoor activities for all interests. And for those looking for a bit of adventure, nearby attractions like the National Justice Museum and City of Caves are perfect rainy-day escapes. Whatever the weather, Gedling has something to keep you busy and entertained.

Carlton residents call new crossing on Westdale Lane a ‘waste of money’

People living near a new pedestrian crossing in Carlton say it is a waste of public money.

Nottinghamshire County Council approved the proposals for a new puffin crossing in Westdale Lane, Carlton, between Adbolton Avenue and Darley Avenue on February 3.

Puffin crossings use sensors to detect when pedestrians are waiting and when they’ve finished crossing, and are designed to be safer and more efficient.

The new crossing will be built on raised sections of pavement sticking out into the lane which currently acts as an unofficial crossing point.

The crossing will cost £100,000 through funding provided to the county council via a Government grant.

The location of the crossing on Westdale Lane. Photo was taken prior to the completion of works

However, some residents who live on the street say there is no need for it.

Resident Gordon Donaldson, who formally objected to the plans, has lived on Westdale Lane for five years.

He said the crossing is an “utter waste of money” claiming the road does not get much traffic per day.

Mr Donaldson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Our objections to the crossing are not out of sheer awkwardness, the data they’re using to support the argument are way off scale and are post-pandemic figures.

“We don’t get much traffic here. The numbers are way off scale.

“The footfall of traffic doesn’t justify £100,000 to build the crossing.

“It’s wasteful, and council budgets are tight are generally tight.

“The money has to be spent wisely. They should use other methods, such as putting advance warning signs but to spend that money for a crossing that will be used very little – I don’t see the point.”

A council survey said 148 pedestrians use the unofficial crossing on Westdale Lane daily, with 93 crossing also crossing at the nearby Co-op store.

Around 9,100 vehicles drive through the route per day, according to the survey.

Other resident questioned the location of the crossing, saying it is “not needed” in the area.

The resident, who did not want to be named, said: “We’ve tried to put forward viable alternatives to do this.

“Nobody wants it around here, it’s not needed. It’s a waste of money.

“We live here so we can see how many people are crossing the road. Nobody uses it.

“People get off the bus and cross where the bus drops them off, there is hardly anybody that uses that bit of road.

“They’re crying out for a crossing further up the road near the school.”

She said the crossing would also cause issues for her parking in her drive-way due to the zig zag markings.

“We’re going to lose a parking space outside of our house because of this.

“I have to pull up on these white zig zags and wait, so we’re being forced to do something which is prohibited in the high way code.

“It also says do not reverse out on to the main road. You can’t win.”

Another resident, who has lived in the area for 25 years, also said the location of the crossing was not ideal – and said it would be much more useful nearer to schools in the area.

She said: “The amount of people who cross the road is nothing like the council claims.

“The statistics are well out of date. The crossing should be further up by the school.

“People have been asking for a crossing near the school for a long time.

“Surely the safety of children should matter, so a crossing there would be needed.”

Cllr Andrew Ellwood (Lib Dem), the councillor for the Phoenix Ward where the puffin crossing will be built, said he had raised concerns over its location.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I’m not opposed to a crossing itself, but where they suggesting it is the wrong location.

“I did propose the crossing be located further along Westdale Lane opposite the Co-op store, which is a safer location for pedestrians and will  inconvenience fewer households.”

Cllr Ellwood added: “Where they’re proposing locating it at the moment, children who are crossing to the nearby school would have to cross Adbolton Avenue as they are crossing two roads.

“I have concerns about traffic moving down there moved fast, so really we’d want to avoid children from crossing at Adbolton avenue and staying on the other side.”

Notts TV has approached Nottinghamshire County Council for comment but did not receive a reply.