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Rainbow Riches Slot Review

Graham Finch
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Rainbow Riches Slot Review

In 2009, Barcrest launched the Rainbow Riches slot game for physical gaming portals in brick-and-mortar venues across the UK. It quickly became one of the most popular slot games, establishing a strong reputation for the brand.

At the time, Rainbow Riches broke away from traditional slot machine stereotypes, using innovative mechanics and features not seen before. The Rainbow Riches slot stood out from the crowd in a world full of fruit machines by offering multiple bonuses and having a memorable Irish theme. 

Rainbow Riches Background

The Rainbow Riches slot offers a 5×3 playtable with 20 unique paylines where players can land matching symbols in play. Gamers can find the same setup with Rainbow Riches online play, with Barcrest keeping the same 5×3 grid as when the game first debuted in 2009. 

Rainbow Riches resembles an ‘Irish luck’ theme that has stuck with the game from the early days to the series of titles we see today. The visuals you will see in play consist of a purple sky and a distant rainbow in view. The slots’ sleek and simple designs show the game’s longevity, as the visuals may seem dated compared to what we see today. The playtable is white and features a gold border, reflecting the game’s theme of Irish luck and fortune.

The audio features in this Rainbow Riches slot complement play very well, with base play consisting of a harp in the background. Barcrest has kept it simple. However, once the bonus features are activated, gameplay is submerged in Irish chimes until the bonus rounds are completed.

The Rainbow Riches slot features a nostalgic and simple theme. Staying true to its Irish theme, Barcrest has designed the game to create a recognisable and unique appeal for a wide range of players.

The Rainbow Riches Slot Symbols

The reels are made up of 7 unique symbols of different values. The lower-mid value symbols are represented by typical card symbols: A, Q, K, J,10 and landing 3+ matching symbols on a payline can trigger prize values in play. These card symbols will all feature separate bright colours, allowing players to differentiate the symbols in play. The other 2 symbols, the higher-value symbols in play, include the Rainbow Riches logo symbol and the Wild, both of which can trigger base game prizes should they land in combination..

Lower Value Symbols

  • 10
  • J
  • Q

Medium Value Symbols

  • K
  • A

Higher Value Symbols

  • Wild – represented by a gold coin
  • Rainbow riches – represented by a ‘Rainbow Riches’ logo in red text with a green and gold background

Along with the 7 symbols on the reels, there are also 3 bonus features available. The bonus symbols follow an Irish theme, which are represented by a leprechaun, a wishing well, and pots of gold.

Rainbow Riches Bonus Features

Rainbow Riches offers 3 different bonus features, which can all be unlocked, providing 3+ matching bonus symbols land on the reels in the same spin. 

Pots of Gold Bonus

Pots of Gold bonus symbols are represented by a black pot with shining gold bursting out the top. The symbol has a purple sky, similar to the slot’s background, with a colourful rainbow shining over the pot of gold. 

This feature is only activated by landing 3 matching symbols in reels 2, 3, and 4. Once activated, bronze, silver, and gold pots move in a circle around the screen, all containing individual multipliers. The pots will stop spinning, and the multiplier on the pot in the middle of the screen will be awarded. 

Road to Riches Bonus

The Road to Riches bonus is triggered when you land 3 or more leprechaun scatter symbols anywhere on the reels in a single spin. Once activated, a cheery leprechaun will greet you in a field of multipliers and colour. A winding path leads you to a gold pot filled with a multiplier reward, providing you land enough ‘steps’ on the wheel to reach the pot of gold. As you advance along the path, your multipliers will increase. There is a wheel spinner that determines how many steps you can potentially move forward, with each step boosting the multiplier. The wheel features two collect segments alongside six advance options, ranging from 1 to 6 steps. When the spinner lands on a collect segment, you will gather your multiplier, multiplying your stake by the amount displayed.

Wishing Well Bonus

The Wishing Well bonus is represented by a grey stone wishing well with a contrasting bright blue sky background. To activate the Wishing Well feature, players must land 3+ Wishing Well symbols anywhere across the 5 reels. 

In this feature, you have the selection from the 3 Wishing Well symbols to choose from, all of which offer individual multipliers. After you choose the Wishing Well, you will be granted the multiplier, which will multiply your original stake.

Similar Games To Rainbow Riches

Barcrest has launched various titles building on the popularity of Rainbow Riches, providing players with numerous similar options. Games like Slingo Rainbow Riches and Rainbow Riches Pots of Gold offer their unique twists while still capturing the nature of the original. These titles also feature fun bonuses, just like Rainbow Riches, making them enjoyable choices for fans.

Final Thoughts

Rainbow Riches may feature graphics that date back to its original launch in 2009, but it remains a popular slot game despite not being the most visually advanced option available. This slot’s fun, arcade-like atmosphere has kept players interested since its debut. The game’s ability to stay true to its roots while still being widely enjoyed speaks volumes about this innovative design for its time. For newcomers to the iGaming scene, the straightforward mechanics of this game make it easy to grasp.

ELK Studio’s Top Games Of 2025

Graham Finch
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ELK Studio’s Top Games Of 2025

With the casino scene being constantly evolving, only a handful of names have managed to push the boundaries quite like ELK Studios. They launched their slot production back in 2012 from their offices in Stockholm, Sweden. This powerhouse has forged a distinctive identity in iGaming, with this being built off the back of their innovation, artful visual design and constant commitment to implementing new and experimental mechanics in their releases.

As we move through 2025 though, ELK Studios only continues to make waves in their industry thanks to their bold design, top of the range graphics and unique bonus features. With their portfolio being so large today, identifying which slots define their creative peak could be somewhat of a task. It is for that reason that we have picked out some of ELK Studio’s most standout casino slots available in 2025, each of which showcase why this Swedish production house remains such a renowned force.

What Makes ELK Studios So Unique?

Before we dive into some of the most popular games from ELK Studios available in 2025, we must first explore what sets this development team apart from the rest of the competition. Unlike many other studios, which stick to familiar formulas, ELK continuously reinvents the wheel, with their titles often introducing fresh mechanics and layered bonus rounds that elevate gameplay beyond the normal conventions.

ELK Studios also takes the visual side of their releases very seriously, creating themed series that build from one game to the next, each of which has evolved graphics and improved game features in every new instalment. Each and every title is packed with highly detailed animations and immersive sound design, something which has seen these Swedish developers become especially well known for their aesthetic expertise.

The Best ELK Studios Slots Right Now – H2

The ELK Studios catalogue spans an incredible range of themes and gameplay styles, with the variation being especially prevalent considering this team has over 125 slots to their name in 2025. From astronomy and pirate themed releases, all the way to tropical islands and Ancient Egypt, we have selected some of the best tiles available from ELK Studios right now, each of these being a perfect example of their boundary pushing creativity.

Cygnus 5 – H2

Starting things off with a release for fans of stargazing and the arcane, Cygnus 5 continues ELK Studios’ stellar astrology inspired series of games. Its cosmic theme is executed thanks to an ancient observatory being pictured in the backdrop, as well as there being various rolling orbs and other astral animations that contribute to this theme even further. However, there is more than just the graphical components which have seen Cygnus become one of the more popular releases from this studio in 2025, with its gravitational game engine being a defining component. This could see symbols fall and sift in ways that mimics real world physics due to the cascading features also included in play, with the bonuses also including multiplier balls which may build within a metre during play.

Pirots 3 – H2

Another of ELK Studio’s most popular games in 2025 is Pirots 3, which sees the return of the pirate parrots – this time venturing inland to the wild western frontiers. The quirky nature of this series makes a return in this 3rd instalment, ditching classic reels in favour of a grid-based collect symbol where gems could explode due to the accompanying avalanche mechanic. What truly sets Pirots 3 apart from other games is its feature set – with TNT sticks blasting away parts of the playtable, coin bags carrying prize values, and the playtable itself capable of expanding during gameplay. ELK Studios has even included a railway track around the reels, which may introduce a heist style bonus round!

Book Of Toro – H2

Blending Ancient Egypt with bullfighting matadors, this births the distinctive theme of the Book of Toro slot, with this fusing two popular casino themes into one visually impressive title. The ‘Toro’ series from these developers is a notable one on its own; however, through the inclusion of mummies, scarab beetles and ankh pendants, this puts a unique twist on the franchise. If players manage to land 3 or more titular books at the same time during play, this could unlock the main free spins round, with the modifier here selecting a random symbol to expand should it appear on the screen. When adding in the bull wild and the multiplier mechanism too, there are a number of experimental details in Book of Toro which see it continuing to be popular in 2025.

Tropicool 4 – H2

Set on a chill island where ice meets the tropics, the appropriately named Tropicool 4 features a giant 6×6 playgrid packed with 46,656 unique paylines. This displays various symbols such as frozen fruits, animated toucan multipliers and flamingo wilds, with there being a whole host of other dynamic systems implemented by ELK Studios too. Giant 2×2 and 3×3 symbols could land during play, with ice block mystery symbols and wilds also making up the bonuses too. This is even without mentioning the locking wilds, cascading reels and symbol swap mechanics too, with this frost and fruit filled title being one of the most dynamic experiences in 2025 that ELK has under their belt.

Dead Man’s Gold – H2

The last of the most popular and best ELK Studios games available in 2025 that we will be mentioning is Dead Man’s Gold. This pirate focused release features shipwrecked islands and plenty of other top notch visuals that surround the 6×4 playtable which has dynamic reels and cascading features too. Skull-marked crates, krakens, and treasure chest symbols further enhance the game’s aesthetic, while multipliers, shifting playgrid mechanics, and a range of inventive bonuses help Dead Man’s Chest carve out a unique identity among pirate-themed slots.

106-year-old Stoke Bardolph care home resident shares her secret to living a long life on birthday

David Bratton
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106-year-old Stoke Bardolph care home resident shares her secret to living a long life on birthday

Sprightly at 106, Stoke Bardolph care home resident Betty McGuinness is still spreading humour and positivity.

She shared her secret to living a long and happy life during birthday celebrations at HC-One’s Rivendell View Care Home on Monday (21).

The entire Rivendell View community came together to honour this extraordinary milestone, celebrating a life filled with love, adventure, and resilience. Betty’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

After leaving school, she dedicated herself to nursing, a profession where she not only served her community but also met her first husband, the father of her children. Later in life, Betty found love again and embarked on a 30-year adventure living in Spain. 

PICTURED: Betty with her child

In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, she returned to England to be closer to her family, bringing her warmth and wisdom to Rivendell View Care Home since November 2023.

When asked about the secret to her long and vibrant life, Betty’s eyes twinkled as she shared her timeless advice: “Marry well.”

The care home hosted a special celebration in Betty’s honour, filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt tributes from colleagues, residents, and her loving family.

Jody Gore, HC-One’s Rivendell View Wellbeing Co-ordinator, said: “Betty is a true gem. Her stories, spirit, and joy inspire us every day, and we’re so privileged to celebrate this incredible milestone with her.”

Understanding casino game odds: A guide for beginners

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Understanding casino game odds: A guide for beginners

For newcomers to the world of casino gaming, understanding the odds can seem like a daunting task.

Whether you’re playing in a bustling casino or trying your luck online, knowing the odds of the games you choose can significantly impact your overall experience and potential winnings.

This guide aims to demystify casino game odds, providing beginners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and enhance their gaming enjoyment. One site that excels in offering clear and player-friendly gaming is casino 1red in the UK, celebrated for its transparency and diverse game selection, Casino OneRed ensures that players have access to all the information necessary to make educated choices. By prioritizing customer support and offering a wide range of resources, they cater to both novice and seasoned gamers alike.

The Basics of Casino Odds

Casino odds are essentially the probability of a particular outcome occurring in any given game. These odds determine how likely you are to win and dictate the potential payout for each bet. Understanding these odds is crucial as they directly influence your chances of success and can help you choose games that align with your risk tolerance and gaming goals.

House Edge and Return to Player (RTP)

Two key concepts to grasp when discussing casino odds are the house edge and the return to player (RTP) percentage. The house edge is the casino’s statistical advantage over the player, expressed as a percentage. For instance, if a game has a house edge of 5%, it means that, on average, the casino expects to keep 5% of all bets placed on that game over time.

Conversely, the RTP percentage represents the amount of wagered money a game is expected to return to players over the long term. If a slot machine has an RTP of 95%, it indicates that, on average, players can expect to receive 95% of their wagers back as winnings. Understanding these two factors can help players make more informed decisions about which games to play.

Slot Machines

Slot machines are among the most popular casino games, known for their simplicity and potential for big payouts. The odds of winning on a slot machine are determined by the RNG (Random Number Generator) software, which ensures that each spin is independent and random. While slots tend to have a higher house edge compared to other games, they often come with enticing jackpots and bonus features that appeal to many players. It’s essential to check the RTP of a slot game before playing, as it can vary significantly between different machines.

Blackjack

Blackjack is a card game where players aim to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without exceeding it. The odds in blackjack can be influenced by player decisions, making it one of the few casino games where skill can impact the outcome. Basic blackjack strategy reduces the house edge and can improve your odds of winning. Typically, the house edge in blackjack ranges from 0.5% to 1%, depending on the rules of the specific game and your ability to utilize strategy effectively.

Roulette

Roulette is a classic casino game where players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. The game offers various betting options, each with its own odds and payouts. In European roulette, the wheel contains 37 numbers (0 to 36), while American roulette has 38 (with an additional 00), slightly increasing the house edge. The house edge for European roulette is approximately 2.7%, while American roulette is higher at 5.26%. Understanding the different bet types and their odds can help players make strategic decisions.

Baccarat

Baccarat is a straightforward card game popular among high rollers. Players can bet on the “Player,” “Banker,” or a “Tie.” The “Banker” bet has the lowest house edge at around 1.06%, making it one of the most favorable bets in the casino. The “Player” bet has a slightly higher house edge of 1.24%, while the “Tie” bet, despite its higher payout, comes with a significantly higher house edge, often exceeding 14%.

Understanding casino game odds is an essential skill for any beginner looking to enhance their gaming experience and make more informed decisions. By familiarizing yourself with the concepts of house edge and RTP, as well as the odds associated with different games like slots, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, you can develop strategies that align with your goals and preferences. Platforms like Casino 1Red, with their commitment to transparency and player education, are excellent resources for both new and experienced players seeking to improve their understanding of odds and maximize their enjoyment. Remember, while luck plays a significant role in casino gaming, knowledge is a powerful tool that can guide your choices and potentially improve your outcomes.

Exploring Netherfield: The Estate That Captivates Jane Austen’s Readers

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Exploring Netherfield: The Estate That Captivates Jane Austen’s Readers

Netherfield Park, the illustrious estate in Jane Austen’s renowned novel Pride and Prejudice, serves as a pivotal setting that captures the imagination of readers worldwide.

This grand estate becomes the focal point of social gatherings, romantic entanglements, and class dynamics that drive the narrative forward. As a quintessential example of a Georgian manor, Netherfield embodies the opulence and social stratification of the Regency era — much like how traditional forms of leisure and social status have been reimagined today through new trends such as the indian mines game in the online casino world, blending heritage with modern innovation.

The Historical Context of Netherfield

The Regency era, spanning from 1811 to 1820, was marked by significant social and cultural changes that influenced the settings and themes of Austen’s novels. Netherfield, as depicted in “Pride and Prejudice,” reflects the architectural and societal trends of this period. Large country estates like Netherfield were symbols of wealth and status, often owned by the gentry or emerging middle classes seeking to establish their social standing.

During this time, the British aristocracy was transforming as new wealth from trade and industry began to rival the traditional land-based fortunes. This shift is mirrored in Austen’s depiction of Netherfield, where Mr. Bingley, a wealthy young man of uncertain lineage, rents the estate, underscoring the fluidity of social mobility during this era. Netherfield’s grandeur and elegance are emblematic of the aspirations of the nouveau riche, eager to integrate into the upper echelons of society.

The estate’s historical context also highlights the rigid class distinctions and gender roles that permeated Regency society. Netherfield becomes a microcosm where these societal norms play out, with the characters navigating the expectations and limitations imposed by their social standing. Understanding this historical backdrop provides a richer comprehension of the interactions and conflicts within “Pride and Prejudice.”

Netherfield in “Pride and Prejudice”

In Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” Netherfield Park is more than just a setting; it is a catalyst for much of the novel’s action and emotional tension. The estate becomes the temporary home of Mr. Charles Bingley, whose arrival in the neighborhood sparks excitement and speculation among the local families, particularly the Bennets. Bingley’s presence at Netherfield sets the stage for his burgeoning romance with Jane Bennet, the eldest of the Bennet sisters.

The estate plays host to several key events in the novel, including the memorable ball where Elizabeth Bennet first encounters the aloof Mr. Darcy. This social gathering at Netherfield not only underscores the opulence of the estate but also highlights the intricate dance of manners and social expectations that define Regency-era interactions. The estate’s grand interiors and expansive grounds provide the perfect backdrop for the characters’ flirtations, misunderstandings, and eventual revelations.

Netherfield’s role in the narrative extends beyond the physical setting; it symbolizes the intersection of wealth, class, and personal aspirations. The estate becomes a place where characters confront their prejudices and societal constraints, leading to personal growth and transformation. Through Netherfield, Austen explores themes of love, pride, and societal norms, making it an integral part of the novel’s enduring appeal.

Architectural Features of Netherfield

Netherfield Park, though fictional, is imagined as a quintessential example of Georgian architecture, characterized by its symmetry, proportion, and elegance. The grandeur of such estates was often reflected in their imposing facades, large sash windows, and expansive gardens, all meticulously designed to convey wealth and status. The architectural features of Netherfield serve as a visual representation of the societal hierarchy and the aspirations of its inhabitants.

A typical Georgian estate like Netherfield would have included a number of key architectural elements:

  • Symmetrical Design: A hallmark of Georgian architecture, emphasizing balance and order.
  • Grand Entrance Hall: Often the focal point for hosting social gatherings and receiving guests.
  • Expansive Gardens: Landscaped to complement the estate’s grandeur and provide leisure space for the residents.
  • Decorative Interiors: Featuring ornate plasterwork, elegant furniture, and luxurious textiles that reflect the owner’s wealth and taste.

These features not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of Netherfield but also play a crucial role in the social dynamics of the novel. The estate’s architectural splendor becomes a stage for the characters’ interactions, with its rooms and gardens serving as settings for pivotal scenes. Through these descriptions, Austen invites readers to envision the elegance and societal significance of such a grand estate.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Netherfield

Netherfield Park, with its grandeur and societal significance, remains an enduring symbol of the themes and characters that define Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.” As a setting, it encapsulates the elegance and complexities of the Regency era, offering a window into the aspirations, relationships, and societal norms of the time. Through Netherfield, Austen crafts a narrative that continues to captivate readers, exploring universal themes of love, class, and personal growth.

The estate’s legacy extends beyond the pages of the novel, inspiring adaptations, discussions, and explorations of Austen’s world. For readers and fans, Netherfield represents a connection to the past, a place where the imagination can wander and the intricacies of human nature are laid bare. Its role in the narrative underscores Austen’s skillful storytelling, blending wit, romance, and social commentary in a way that resonates across generations.

As fans continue to explore the real-life inspirations and settings associated with Netherfield, the estate’s allure endures, inviting new generations to discover the magic of Austen’s world. Whether through visits to historic estates, engaging with fellow enthusiasts, or revisiting the novel itself, the legacy of Netherfield Park lives on, a testament to the timeless appeal of Jane Austen’s work.

Tommy Brookbanks to step down as Carlton Town joint manager

David Bratton
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Tommy Brookbanks to step down as Carlton Town joint manager

Tommy Brookbanks has announced he is to step down as joint manager of Carlton Town at the end of the season.

He made the announcement before the final home game of the season on Easter Monday against Sherwood Colliery.

The Millers were 4-1 victors despite being a goal down at half-time. Sadly Carlton’s slim promotion hopes were extinguished on the Saturday by Dunston in the North East after the they lost 2-1 on Saturday.

Brookbanks has had two spells at the club and it that time has achieved five promotions, eventually landing the club in the Northern Premier League at step 4 during the 2006-2007 season.

He then led the club into the playoffs in 2008-2009 before a Jamie Vardy-inspired Stockbridge knocked them out in the semi final. He left at the end of the following season.

Brookbanks returned to the club as joint manager alongside Mark Harvey six years ago and both led the club to two County Cup Finals in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, winning the first by beating Mansfield Town under 21s at Basford United. The Millers sadly lost the second final to Newark and Sherwood FC.

This season Carlton went on an amazing 15 match unbeaten run and were play-off contenders.

A club spokesman revealed that although Brookbanks is stepping down as manager he will be taking up another role with the club.

They said: “The good news for Millers fans is that Tommy is to stay on at the club in another capacity and that will be revealed in due course, along with the plans going forward.”

Council opens book of condolences in memory of Pope Francis in Arnold’s civic centre

David Bratton
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Council opens book of condolences in memory of Pope Francis in Arnold’s civic centre

Gedling borough people will be able to express their sorrow at the death of Pope Francis this week by signing books of condolences in the Civic Centre in Arnold.

The Mayor of Gedling has opened a book of condolences in memory of Pope Francis at the council’s HQ in Arnot Hill Park.

The former head of the Catholic Church died on Monday (21).

He had suffered a serious bout of double pneumonia in recent weeks but his death came as a shock, hours after he greeted crowds while being driven around St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

The Vatican said he had died from a stroke and subsequent heart failure.

The Pope’s casket is currently lying in state at St Peter’s Basilica for a three-day public viewing before being closed at 7pm UK time on Friday.

PICTURED: Gedling Borough Council civic centre in Arnot Hill Park

The council has since opened the book as a means for the public to pay their respects.

The flags outside the Civic Centre were also flown at half mast yesterday as a mark of respect.

The Mayor has also written to Catholic representatives in the borough expressing his sadness at the Pope’s passing.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born on December 17 1936 and was ordained as a priest in 1969.

He was elected in 2013, after first becoming Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and a Cardinal in 2001.

EMR recovers nearly £2 million from fare dodgers in 12 months

Emily Sanchez
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2
EMR recovers nearly £2 million from fare dodgers in 12 months

A train firm has recovered more than £1.9 million from fare dodgers in 12 months.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) said the figure was recovered from those travelling between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.

During this period, the firm’s revenue protection officers and onboard staff issued 11,798 notices, returning a combined total of £1,912,887.

The notices were issued to those travelling without a valid ticket, travelling with a child ticket as an adult, travelling without a valid railcard and travelling beyond the destination printed on a ticket.

Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, Philippa Cresswell said: “The vast majority of customers do the right thing and pay for their travel – they understand that a fair and sustainable railway relies on everyone contributing.

“Unfortunately, a small number continue to try and travel without paying. The impact of fare evasion is felt by our law-abiding, fare-paying customers and, ultimately, the taxpayer. It’s indefensible for certain individuals to believe they’re exempt from paying for our services.

“Put simply, fare evasion is a criminal offence, and we’re committed to taking action against those who deliberately avoid paying.

“Indeed, our revenue protection, fraud and security teams work both in uniform and plain clothes in order to monitor and catch fare evaders – whether they are travelling without a ticket, have a ticket for part of their journey, or are fraudulently travelling on a child’s ticket.”

Customers are being warned they should buy their ticket from the ticket office, a ticket machine, or online. If they are using pay-as-you-go or a smartcard ticket, they should ensure they touch in to start their journey as required.

If the ticket office is closed, customers will be able to buy a ticket from a machine or online before they board a train.

Customers who travel on East Midlands Railway (EMR) without a valid ticket can be fined £100, in addition to the price of a single ticket.

Outdoor activity centre gets cash boost from generous Colwick firm

Emily Sanchez
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2
Outdoor activity centre gets cash boost from generous Colwick firm

A Nottinghamshire outdoor activity centre that has been enjoyed by thousands of scouts for decades has received a welcome financial boost from a Colwick-based packaging firm. 

Walesby Forest, a not-for-profit organisation established in 1938, is an international outdoor adventure activity centre set in 250 acres of Nottinghamshire forest.  

The inclusive site, which works in partnership with the City of Nottingham Scouts, was named as the recipient of April’s charity donation by The Wilkins Group as part of the packaging giant’s ‘year of giving’ campaign.   

The family-owned firm’s 12-month campaign is championing a different Nottinghamshire charity each month during 2025 and making donations to lessen the impact of the current challenging economic climate.  

Having already donated thousands of pounds to good causes across the city and county, including Green’s Windmill Trust in Sneinton, Papplewick Pumping Station in Ravenshead, and Stonebridge City Farm, this week staff at The Wilkins Group chose Walesby Forest to receive a £1,000 cheque having been inspired by the location’s facilities, longevity and values.   

Justin Wilkins, joint managing director at The Wilkins Group, which makes food packaging for many of the UK’s leading brands, said: “We have been deeply inspired by how this remarkable non-profit organisation embraces and upholds the strong heritage of scouting values, mission, and purpose. 

“It is a privilege to support them in such a worthwhile mission to bring outdoor activities and adventures to a multitude of visitor groups.” 

Walesby Forest is an internationally renowned outdoor activity centre among Scouts and Guides. It is also open to the public, with its main visitors coming from schools, colleges, and universities.   

Guy Laurie, CEO for Walesby Forest, said: “Huge thanks go to The Wilkins Group for its donation. We are the green lung for many young people in inner-city districts.   

“As a not-for-profit organisation we offer bespoke and inclusive experiences aimed at educating our visitors in a fun and safe environment within the heart of the incredible Sherwood Forest in Robin Hood country.”  

“This donation means a lot to us and such an amount goes a long way.  It will allow us to offer subsidised places to between 200–300 young people for a weekend.”  

The charity has over 30 adventure activities including outdoor climbing, kayaking, archery and air rifles, plus a range of accommodation and camping areas maintained and managed by dedicated staff, instructorsand volunteers.  

Walesby Forest prides itself of offering equal opportunities regardless of economic background.  

Justin said: “We know times are hard for so many people and organisations across the country at the moment. With our roots in Nottinghamshire, we are taking the spirit of Robin Hood and spreading donations across the county throughout the year to worthy recipients.  

“Our donation is helping to promote the development of young people, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, gain life experiences and grow as individuals.” 

The Wilkins Group announced its ‘year of giving’ campaign in December. It kick-started the initiative with an innovative calendar and desk tidy that was sent to its customers.  

Each month, the calendar highlights a different Nottinghamshire charity, outlining its work and why The Wilkins Group would be donating towards each cause. 

Police chiefs to get new powers to remove unfit officers

David Bratton
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1
Police chiefs to get new powers to remove unfit officers

Officers who fail vetting will be automatically sacked in changes being made to police regulations

Measures will be introduced to Parliament today (23) which will make it a legal requirement for serving officers to pass vetting procedures.

It will also mean chief constables will be able to get rid of officers they regard as unfit to serve from next month.

The Home Office said the changes follow recent legal challenges which have “brought to light” the difficulty forces can have removing officers who are not fit to serve.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “In recent years, serious cases which have badly failed all proper policing standards have damaged public trust in the officers who are supposed to protect them, and undermined the majority of brave, committed officers who work tirelessly to keep us safe.

“It is simply not acceptable that officers who are clearly unfit to serve or pose a risk to their colleagues cannot be removed.

“That’s why these new rules are essential and it is why this Government has been working closely with forces to overcome these barriers to restore confidence in policing.”

The reformed police dismissal system will come into force from May 14.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for vetting, Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith, backed the changes which he said “provide clear routes for action to remove individuals who fall below the high standards the public and our workforce rightly expect and deserve”.

The Home Office also plans to introduce further safeguards to improve vetting national standards later this year, including stronger requirements to suspend officers under investigation for violence against women and girls.

Officers convicted of certain criminal offences will also be automatically found guilty of gross misconduct.

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