I GET G FREE BETS B & MORE THIS WORLD CUP. Come and see our new shop
23 High Street, Maltby
Your Wentworth Valley Community Newspaper June 2010
Football Tournament page 12
MBE at the Palace page 3
Revolution for schools Maltby’s education system could be set for a revolution over the coming years in the wake of the recent announcement by Education Secretary Michael Gove, in which he said that all schools, including Infants and Primary schools, would be given the opportunity to break away from local authority control and become academies. Academies are state-funded schools which have a high degree of autonomy. Maltby already has one Academy following the conversion of the Community School at the beginning of this year. Mr Gove said the changes and new freedoms would drive up standards for all schools, with supporters hailing them as a “revolution” in schools. Critics have warned that the changes risk fragmenting state education, with the most disadvantaged children losing out, but the new coalition insists the system will help all pupils. Schools rated as outstanding by inspectors, such as Crags Infants, could be fast-tracked into academy status for the autumn. Any moves at Crags would be complicated by the recent decision to merge the Infants and Junior Schools. The proposals could mean thousands of schools leaving local authority control. Mr Gove said: “What I’d like to do is to ensure some of the radicalism that we used to have in education policy returns.
“It’s about saying to heads and boards of governors and teachers - ‘it’s up to you’. “I don’t want to coerce anyone into a position with which they’re unhappy. I want to allow schools to take up this offer.” Mr Gove gave a news conference with key supporters of the policy last month. Critics of the academies and free schools policies warn that the weakening of the role of local authorities in providing education will mean that some children - especially the most disadvantaged - will lose out. Mr Gove says that another coalition policy - that of the “pupil premium” will mean that does not happen. Under this policy, extra money will “follow” disadvantaged children to whichever school they go to. Dan Moynihan from the Harris Federation, which runs seven academies, said the measure would change the face of education in England. “It’s the beginning of an education revolution that has the ability to transform the lives of children,” he said When schools become academies, they are given more control over the pay and conditions of staff and over what they teach. They have to follow the admissions code, which governs how children get school places, but are able to select
about 10% of their pupils on aptitude if they wish to, but not on ability. They will be given extra money, the government says. This would be about 10% or so money which was previously given to local authorities to provide services shared among local schools. Mr Moynihan said getting academy status meant schools could be more flexible and therefore more able to meet the needs of all their pupils. Of the seven academies in his foundation, four had been judged outstanding, with a fifth on track to do the same. And teachers who worked in academies liked the pay and conditions, he said. To attract good teachers, no academy would want to offer less than nationally-agreed rates, he said. The plans have been attacked by the former education secretary Ed Balls, who said they would “hugely devalue the academies’ name”. “It will also mean the resource and the power will be handed over, away from the local authority to the bestperforming schools which will suck the best teachers and the extra money,” he said. “The losers from the complete freefor-all he is proposing will be the majority of schools, those children and parents who deserve a better deal but will see their budgets cut.”
Hollywood Ball Page 4
Bungeeeeee at the Don Jon TAKING OFF: Joe Gannon leaps into the unknown
Maltby daredevils turned out in force, with even more vocal support packing the car park at the Don Jon earlier this month to raise money for the Air Ambulence. Those brave enough had raised a minimum of £60 each for the privilege of hurling themsleves from the world’s highest mobile bungee crane. “We would like to thank everyone who jumped as well as all those who supported them on a great evening at the pub,” said the manager Johnny.
2 www.maltbynews.co.uk
June 2010
Events Calendar
june
Maltby Town Council Surgery
Braithwell Church & Country Fair
ENGLAND Vs USA
Toddler Time
The Ruddle Centre & Playing Field, 13:00 - 17:00, Lots of attractions inc. Maltby Miner’ Welfare Band & Gillian Banks Dance Display
Watch first match at The Three Tuns Tickets £3 inc pie & pint Tel: 01709 812775
Edward Dunn Dance & Social Club
Maltby Crags Women’s Group
Maltby Community Learning Forum
St Marys Parish Room, Morell St 9:00-11:00. Tuesdays (Term time only) Everyone Welcome Tel Pauline: 07817 405255
Edward Dunn Memorial Hall 14:00-16:30. Every Friday, Tea Dance £1.50 including tea & biscuits
Crags School Community Room 9:00 - 11:00. Every Wednesday Term Time. Speakers, Crafts etc. For info: 07817 405255
Maltby Craggs Infant School, 13:00-15:00, All Welcome
Wickersley Writers Workshop
Wickersley Operatics Society
World Cup Quiz
Carol Ann Fashion Show
Wickersley Community Centre Every other Tues, 13:00 - 15:00 Tel Margaret: 01709 543991
Wickersley Community Centre Tues 18:30 - 21:30 Thurs 19:30-21:30 Open to all over 16yrs
The White Swan, 15:00 onwards Great Prizes to be won All proceeds to Maltby Tesco’s charity of the year
Sandbeck Hall, Call into Carol Ann’s of Wickersley or call 01709 533033 for tickets and info
Supertots Carer & Toddler Group
Edward Dunn Memorial Hall Every Friday 14:00-15:30 Everyone welcome
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Tea, coffee & biscuits
22
West End Nights By Spotlight Theatre Company Rotherham Civic Theatre, 19:15. Tickets £9.50, For tickets: 01709 816876
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july
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Braithwell Wheelbarrow Race Start at The Red Lion, Braithwell 18:00, Everyone welcome
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Wickersley Library, 10:00-11:00 (every Mon incl. school holidays) Fun & games for 2-5yr olds No need to book just come along
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National Falls Awareness Week Maltby Leisure Centre, 9:00-13:00 Call to book: 01709 423042 Free advise from professionals, stay steady, independent & active longer
20
Britain’s Got Talent Live at Sheffield Arena Sheffield Arena, Tickets £32.50, Call Box Office 0114 256 5656
29
Folk and Acoustic Night
Wentworth Valley Area Assembly
The Three Tuns, Stainton 20:00 Folks, Blues, 60s, Anything acoustic Call John: 01709 813530
Full Life Church, Maltby, 18:00 - 20:00 All Welcome
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Jeremy Neal Funeral Director Office & Chapel of Rest
Maltby Independent Funeral Service 17 Morrell Street Maltby S66 7LL
01709 815959
Pre paid funeral plans available
24 hr service Dedicated to Dignity, Care & Respect www.rotherhamfunerals.co.uk
Bartholomew & Sons Funeral Directors est 1891
Serving Maltby and surounding areas for over 40 years. For a caring, professional service 24 hours a day 8-seater minibus now available
812158 & 363706
The Funeral Home, Coleridge Road, Maltby S66 7LT Pre Payment Funeral plans available.
www.maltbynews.co.uk 3
June 2010
Community News
Charity Founder awarded MBE at Palace Hilary Massarella, Founder Trustee of SAFE@ LAST a children’s charity that works with children and young people at risk through running away in South Yorkshire and the surrounding areas was presented with her MBE by The Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace on Friday. Speaking after the ceremony Hilary said of the award “Today has been the most special occasion; to receive recognition in this way is really very humbling as I am aware that SAFE@LAST is made up of so many people who give of themselves. However, this opportunity is appreciated by me and my family, everyone involved in the ceremony was charming and made us feel very much at ease so nerves didn’t get in the way of the enjoyment. Prince Charles was interested in what we do and had a great deal of empathy with young people’s issues.” MBE’s are awarded for achievement or service in and to the community which is outstanding in its field and for a local “hands-on” service which stands out as an example to others. Hilary’s was for Service to Disadvantaged Young People in South Yorkshire. Hilary has worked tirelessly, and solely in
a voluntary capacity, for ten years to establish and lead the small organisation that makes a huge difference to children’s lives. SAFE@LAST provides services including a helpline, ongoing support, prevention project and remarkably the only refuge for children and young people in England. The idea for such an organisation came after Hilary watched a documentary and was appalled at the lack of services for such a vulnerable group of young people. Hilary was inspired by the programme to seek positive change for young runaways. As a housewife and mother of five small children, for two years she researched the issues around running away. There was no doubt, in South Yorkshire, as in many places across
the country, children were feeling they had no alternative but to run away. Awareness of the problem desperately needed to be raised and something practical and long lasting urgently needed to be created. It is reported that 100,000 children and young people run away from home each year. This amounts to one in nine children being affected by the phenomenon. Children run away from home and care for a wide variety of reasons and it is recognised that running away is not the problem but a symptom of other problems that children are experiencing including neglect, physical abuse, self harming, forced marriage, conflict and violence at home, sexual exploitation, mental health problems and many more.
Hilary at Buckingham Palace with son Charles and daughter Elizabeth
New hope for Firbeck Hall Friends of Firbeck Hall have new hope of better prospects for the Hall following the appointment of receivers, as owners Cambs Constuction Ltd are now in administration. Friends of Firbeck Hall Chairman, Simon Drohan, welcoming the forthcoming changes said “We are keen to work with any new owner who is genuinely concerned and has the best interests of Firbeck Hall at heart. We can perhaps best serve as an essential conduit between the owner and a local community which has always regarded Firbeck Hall as an integral part of the village”. The Friends group was formed last year when serious dilapidation of the building became apparent, requiring urgent attention to prevent any further deterioration. Membership has quickly grown, now exceeding 260, and the group has continued to campaign vigorously to draw attention to the perilous condition of this imposing structure in its beautiful setting. As listed buildings, the Hall, Stable Block and West Lodge are subject to stringent conditions in respect of repair, maintenance and any future development. These regulations are administered by the local authority and will apply in respect of any new owner. Built in the 16th century Firbeck Hall, together with the Stable Block and West Lodge, is a Grade II listed structure. Fame and fortune arrived in the 1930s when, frequented by the rich and famous, Firbeck Hall Club had the reputation of being the foremost country club in the whole of Europe. Subsequently it became a wartime hospital and later a rehabilitation centre for injured miners before it was acquired by Cambs Constuction in 1996. In spite of its great potential, no plans for development were ever submitted and the buildings were allowed to fall into disrepair.
4 www.maltbynews.co.uk
June 2010
Community News
Rotherham Hospice reaches for the stars The red carpet was rolled out by The Rotherham Hospice on Friday 14 May at the Holiday Inn, Rotherham, for the Hollywood Ball. It was an evening of glitz and starry-eyed glamour. The evening’s entertainment included red carpet interviews with the Chuckle Brothers, live music by the Dearne Big Band and Singers and also featured the glamorous Gillian Banks Spotlight Showgirls. A fabulous three course dinner was served to guests. The event raised almost £6,000, with a raffle and auction on the night which included a Rotherham United Shirt. In addition, Hospice staff received a cheque for £1,000 from Oxley & Coward staff. The event was sponsored by Oxley & Coward Solicitors, Yorkshire Windows, and Pentagon Toyota. The event is just one of a wide range of events the Hospice organises each year, in order to raise the vital revenue needed to offer care and support to people in Rotherham who have a life limiting illness. Event organiser, Kay Wassell said “The Hollywood Ball was a fabulous night and we had some fantastic feedback “The people of Rotherham really showed Hollywood how to have a good time!” Helen Mather, Fundraising Manager, said: “This year is particularly important for the Hospice. We are increasing our capacity to offer in-patient care and support to people in Rotherham by 75%, by building a new extension. When operational, the extra rooms will increase our annual running costs by around £600,000 a year. “Events such as the Hollywood Ball are a central part of our fundraising activities and although we receive some statutory funding, we rely on the Rotherham community for nearly 65% of our income.” left: The Chuckle brothers with the Gillian Banks Spotlight Showgirls
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www.maltbynews.co.uk 5
June 2010
Community News
Brian Elliott in Maltby Maltby Local History Society’s May meeting took place in the newly refurbished upstairs Meeting Room at Maltby Community Library. The group’s guest was the celebrated local historian and author Brian Elliott (below) who, during an informal session, gamely responded to members’ questions about his interests, his life and his work. Mr Elliott’s recent books on various aspects of coal mining in South Yorkshire proved a particular focus for those in attendance, who included a number of retired colliery employees. Pertinent questions were posed, memories and experiences were shared and moments of genuine fear were described during what became one of the most interesting meetings of the year. Meanwhile at a recent
Emma launches campaign A schoolgirl from Maltby, who scooped a prize for her courage and kindness after suffering a brain tumour, has launched this year’s Yorkshire Young Achievers Awards scheme to find other like-minded youngsters. Emma Cartlidge was joined by Yorkshire actor Lucy-Jo Hudson and ITV’s Calendar team to kickstart the hunt for this year’s winners. To mark the awards’ 18th birthday a new charity - the Yorkshire Young Achievers Foundation - has also been set up to help more young people across the region.
meeting of Maltby Local History Society I was asked to try to find the whereabouts of the memorial window to the victims of the Maltby Colliery Disaster. The photograph (right) shows it, in its original position, in the eastern apse of the Church of the Ascension, Maltby Model Village. By Alice Rodgers The Editor writes: We can confirm that the window is in storage at the Edward Dunn Building Further information about the Society is available on 812035.
TELEPHONE 01709 378909
Emma, aged 12, scooped the youngster of the year award last year for her fundraising efforts for Sheffield Children’s Hospital where she was treated for a brain tumour. The awards recognise outstanding young people in the region who have made an impact, whether nationally, regionally or locally. To date they have raised £800,000 for youngsters in Yorkshire. Categories include personality of the year, youngster of the year, unsung hero, achievement in the arts and achievement in education.
Parkgate Mobility Centre Effingham Street Rotherham Our showrooms boasts thousands of small items designed to make everyday living that much easier telephone for free colour catalogue
above: Emma at the launch
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June 2010
Community News
Supertots Carer and Toddlers Group were out on a sponsored toddle this month raising money for Dr Barnardos. The theme was Pirates and everyone got into the swing of things, with Tesco providing drinks and snacks for the hungry buccaneers.
Gill scoops National Award Gillian Green attends a literacy course at Maltby Crags Infant school and has recently won a national award with NIACE for a piece of text she wrote about how starting to read Quick Read books has changed her life. Her prize was a couple of days in London with a guest and her tutor where she met authors and received her award. “Gillian started on the course a few months ago with low literacy levels and low confidence in reading but has blossomed,� said Gill Lawrence of the WEA.
www.maltbynews.co.uk 7
June 2010
Community News
A Jolly time
We don’t have to stand for this do we?
The Jolly Tots play group here in Maltby turned out in force when around thirty children and parents turned up to help raise funds for the National Autistic Society. The little ones gathered on the Manor Field at 10.30am to take part in a Sponsored ‘toddle’. Maltby Town Councillors. Amy Rushforth, Jenny Andrews, John Kirk and Keith Stringer were on hand to see them off on their way. An indoor picnic followed at the Coleman Centre where Cllr Stringer said a few words of “thanks” on behalf of the N.A.S. before Cllr Rushforth drew the raffle numbers. Tesco Community Champions provided drinks and snacks for the toddlers. Mrs Claire Spalding who organised the event for the Jolly Tots said that she was very pleased with the support that had been given by everyone and thanked everyone and the Councillors for their help. A presentation of the money to N.A.S. will take place in the Coleman Centre in the near future.
‘Why can’t we get more locals to attend?’ was a question posed recently at one of the worthy meetings I go to. It fell to me to suggest that the group’s name ‘Maltby Community Learning Forum’ was not the most exciting ‘come-on’ in the book. My colleagues howled me down, defending a title which singularly fails to define the reality of our regular gatherings. Like much which comes down from the council, this name is stained with jargon. Much of this flows down from ‘national initiatives’. Take, for example, the Wentworth Valley Area Assembly which regularly sits through officer ‘presentations’ which bombard us with the latest buzz-words. One recent item was on housing policy and I was not alone in being baffled by the script with which the poor officer had been lumbered. It included the following impenetrable terminology:‘Single Conversation’; ‘Suite of documents’; ‘Investment Mapping’; ‘“Look what we have achieved so far” document’; ‘Rotherham’s Digest’; ‘Super Output Area’; ‘factual evidence base’; ‘affordable housing’; ‘direction of travel’; ‘Social housing’; ‘zero carbon’; ‘economic transformation’; ‘frail and imbalanced housing markets’; ‘quality of place’; ‘match fit’; ‘stakeholder representatives’; ‘“special interest” arenas’ More than once, I asked the officer to explain the meaning of his oft-repeated term ‘single conversation’ and I was finally rewarded with the following gem which, to my delight, is recorded in the minutes.
Charity Cheque St Mary’s Catholic Primary School presented a cheque for £1607.77 to a representative from Clic Sargent last month. Each year during Lent the children fund raise for their chosen charity. This year they chose to support Clic Sargent which is a children’s cancer charity. Nicola (below) from Clic Sargent is presented with a cheque by two of the school councillors, Louis Hunt and Charlotte Brookes.
‘There will be a VAR event next Tuesday morning to explain the Single Conversation. Basically it is a step wise process of establishing an agreement with a funding body (Government, Local Authority and it’s partners)’ After the meeting I lodged a written complaint, about officer jargon, to the Area Assembly Office. I pointed out that ‘single conversations’ was on the Local Government Association’s recently published list of 250 words and phrases which ‘should not be used by the public sector when providing information to the public’. ‘Step wise’ is not there yet but ‘step change’ is. Also included is ‘transformational’, a word which often gets coupled with ‘change’ to
become the meaningless ‘transfomational change’ which so bedevils publicity from RMBC and from local schools. Of course we don’t have to stand for this. To its credit, the Wentworth Valley Area Assembly voted unanimously that, on the important issue of housing, this jargon-laden ‘presentation’ did not constitute a ‘consultation’! © Alice Rodgers 2010 For further information on the Local Government Association’s list of banned words go to http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/core/ page.do?pageId=9422797
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June 2010
Letters & Comment • WHERE THE STREETS Editorial The Bishop of Doncaster visited Maltby recently to learn more about the town and the work of clergy from the variety of churches which service the community here. One representative described it as “A kind of Ofgod inspection”! Over a buffet lunch at The Sheppey a group of local politicians and community support workers joined the group to discuss local issues. One thing which came out of the meeting was a very positive view of how the town has moved forward since the ravages of mine and steel closures during the 1980s. It is easy to forget just how desperate those times were, when Maltby’s unemployment rate was among the highest in the country. What is also often forgotten is that Maltby missed out on regeneration monies as the colliery re-opened, and so we suffered the depravation but received little in the way of assistance. Nonetheless times are now better, and with the improvements in our civic and leisure buildings now complete, and with the prospect of new buildings at the Academy, Maltby is on a positive curve. This month the government has warned of the most severe public spending cuts in 25 years, and the burden of those cuts is likely to fall upon those who can ill afford them. Maltby has been here before, and is now better prepared for the challenge.
HAVE NO NAME Sir
I would like to draw attention to the state of the road in Maltby town centre which runs from MIllindale up to the High Street between Tesco and the Catholic Club. Recently a patient left the Croft House Dental surgery, and suffered a fall on the road, resulting in facial injuries which required hospital treatment and an ambulence to the scene. It is an absolute disgrace that this road surface, or indeed the lack of one, should exist in a British town in the 21st Century. From discussions with Rotherham MBC I am led to understand that this road is not “adopted” and consequently is not the responsibility of the Council. Nonetheless, someone must own the land, and be responsible for its dangerous state. It really is time something was done about this before someone suffers an even more serious injury.
David Allen Practice Manager Croft House Dental Surgery Maltby.
• PERU TREK Sir Just to let you know I have completed the Trek in Peru and have raised over £4,000, special thanks go to the Maltby Miners Junior Football team. But Many thanks for the support from maltby.news, and as a group we raised over £81,500.
Simon Quinn
• STREETS OF SHAME Sir
The Maltby News 13 Blyth Road Maltby Rotherham S66 8HX tel: 01709 819566 email: kevin@maltbynews.co.uk website: www.maltbynews.co.uk Published by Joker Publications Ltd at their registered office: Unit 6, Acorn Business Park, Woodseats Close, Sheffield S8 0TB. Company No. 6504103. Printed by Sharman and Company Limited on recycled newsprint. Distributed by Snazzle tel: 0844 3511 077 or 07914 577 422 e-mail: sales@snazzle.co.uk website: www.snazzle.co.uk
As a resident of Maltby and a responsible dog owner I have decided to put pen to paper to complain about the state of Maltby’s streets. Every day when I am out and about I am met with litter, broken glass, dog mess and stones and chippings on the footpaths and roads. The problem seems to be getting worse as nobody cares. For the second time in as many weeks has cut his paws on rubbish. The council cut the grass verges and don’t clean up the cuttings. It just blows all over the place. Workmen do not clean up after digging up the streets. School children drop litter. All these things seem to be acceptable, but if I do not cleanup after my dog I get fined! I pay my road tax and council tax for the privilege of driving my car through potholes and looking at rubbish. I decided to call Streetpride to voice my concerns which was a complete waste of time. Two men drove around in a van to look at the streets in my area and that was it! The broken glass, I was told, was to be cleaned up within four hours of having been reportedis still there and has been for weeks. What more are we supposed to do? Take a sweeping brush to the streets ourselves. I am not the only resident to have hit a brisck wall with Streetpride and the local council over this matter, hence this letter.
Lucas Spalding aged seven shows the depth of an offending pothole
If the local council did a bit more to tidy up and keep things clean then maybe people would be more inclined to keep it that way and take a bit more pride in their local streets. WIll it hurt Streetpride to go around all the streets with a sweeping brush once in a while. Other councils manage to do it, why can’t ours. Don’t we deserve a bit more?
Name and Address Witheld The editor writes: A spokesperson for Rotherham Borough Council said that while the authority applies the same standards across the borough and aims to improve the quality of the local environment for all residents, some areas do need more resources than others to keep them clean and so staff are deployed accordingly. She added: “Maltby actually has a dedicated District Cleansing Operative who is in the town every week day and who works hard to keep the busiest routes in the town clean and litter free. “Well known within Maltby, this operative received a Civic Award in 2008 in recognition of his hard work. He is supported by a mobile cleansing team for Maltby which ensures that areas known to suffer from a littering problem are regularly cleansed and also ensure that the litter bins are emptied. “The council’s approach to litter is to promote responsible behaviour through education and targeted campaigns, backed up with enforcement through its Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) arrangements. “Rotherham Streetpride also offers a rapid response service to requests for areas to be cleansed. Such requests can be made by calling Streetpride Connect on 01709 336003. We would actively encourage members of the public to let us know about areas they are concerned about so that we can ensure that the problem is dealt with. “When making a report customers are given a reference number. If any customer is not satisfied with the response they receive from us they can phone and quote the reference number for an update on what action we have or intend to take. They can at the same time ask for an officer to contact them. The officer will then deal directly with the customers concerns. “There would be a significant increase in the cost of the service if cuttings were to be collected. Most councils now adopt the practice of ‘blowing back’ cuttings onto grassed areas rather than collecting them
- footpaths and roads should be left clear after grass-cutting. “The severe winter saw a three-fold increase in the number of potholes that the council has had to deal with. There is a programme of work in place which is designed to deal with highways repairs on a priority basis, and we will continue to deal with ‘dangerous defects’ as a matter urgency - usually within 24 hours.”
June 2010
www.maltbynews.co.uk 9
Community News
Maltby Garden Fruit and Vegetable Centre is a well-known landmark on Braithwell Road, but once inside it takes on a Tardis-like feel. This time of year hanging baskets are a huge favourite with customers as hundreds fly out of the door over just a few weeks. A fantastic array of fresh vegetables are laid out just inside, with many exotic varieties alongside the staples one might expect. The company provides over 30 local hotels, pubs and restaurants, residential homes and schools with fresh produce, as well as providing affordable quality produce for retail customers. A recently refurbished general store is situated at the rear. The horticultural side of the business has also grown of late with the addition of a new covered areas where a vast arrange of flowers, plants and shrubs are in bloom. The company also provide a funeral floral service, coffin arrangements are a speciality. They also provide church flowers and pedestal displays.
Which Plants Grow on Maltby Crags? On Saturday 5th June, an important milestone in the work of the Maltby Wood Lee Common and Crags Meadow Steering Group was reached with the commencement of botanical survey work on both the Crags and Crags Meadow. The object of the exercise is to assess the number and variety of plants in the area with a view to identifying how the management of the site can be improved. Pictured starting their work on the top of the Crags are botanical experts RMBC Ecologist Carolyn Barber and Ken Dorning of the Sorby Natural History Society. Photo by James Rodgers
10 www.maltbynews.co.uk
June 2010
Community News
Ashes to ashes No, we’re not still discussing whether Gene Hunt is likely to make a comeback, but rather the fallout from Iceland. Over the years this country has become accustomed to dealing with problems from a small, volcanic island in the North Atlantic; the Cod War and Björk spring to mind. When British airspace was closed due to volcanic ash, however, it was estimated that somewhere in the region of 500,000 people were stranded abroad and the Navy was dispatched to evacuate troops from Europe (only this time not from Dunkirk). Whilst it’s difficult not to have sympathy with people trapped by sunlit swimming pools, how did they fair when returning late to work? There is an implied (ie: not necessarily written down) term in every contract of employment that the employee turns up for work; failure to do so is classed as unauthorised absence. It’s not every day of the week (well apart from this year) that staff are unable to return to the UK so there will be little if anything in the way of “custom and practice” that has developed to set guidelines with how to deal with the situation. The options for an employer in these cases are therefore to be incredibly generous and understanding and still pay staff even though they are not at work, to allow staff to take additional holiday that wasn’t pre-booked or to allow staff to make their time up upon their return. One option may be to agree a combination of these options. A further option would be for the employer to withhold wages. Even though there may be no explicit term in the contract of
employment allowing employers to withhold wages, the implied term referred to earlier would in effect allow them to do so. It is unlikely that a claim for illegally withheld wages would succeed unless the employee contacted his employer whilst stranded abroad in line with company practice and a period of absence was agreed. (Warning to employers, make sure staff know who they should be contacting and that the people taking these calls at your place of work agrees a way forward in line with company policy, not leaving the situation woolly; “thanks for calling, see you when you get back” may be construed as authorising a period of absence). Ah, yes. Company policy. The best thing for all concerned is that the employer has, and the employee is given, a copy of a policy covering absence. This would cover agreed holidays, sickness and those unforeseen circumstances like snow in winter and eruptions from Iceland. Now, where is that frozen cheesecake? The information and any commentary contained in this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other type of professional advice. Tierney and Co does not accept and, to the extent permitted by law, excludes liability to any person for any loss which may arise from relying upon or otherwise using the information contained in this article. If you have a particular query or issue you are strongly advised to obtain specific, personal advice about your case or matter and not to rely on the information or comments in this article. If you have any legal issues, the best advice we can give you is to consult a solicitor. For all your employment law (and other legal) needs, please contact Ian Clay at Tierney & Co on 01709 709000.
Maltby Academy Charity Presentation
Two charities benefited from money raised at the Maltby Academy annual Christmas Fayre. The students chose Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Kidney Research UK and each were presented with a cheque for £561. Nichola Rykab, the Academy’s Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural tutor said Bluebell was always close to the students’ hearts, and Kidney Research UK was chosen by Y7 students to show support for a student who is undergoing kidney treatment at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Representing Kidney Research UK Stephen King said “The monies the students have raised will go to our research fund, and is very welcome.” Meanwhile Ann Humberstone, the Rotherham Area Representative for Bluebell Woods, said “It was a
wonderful surprise to be told that the students had once again raised money on our behalf.” The Fayre involved students working together in tutor groups to come up with enterprising ideas to raise money. This included selling cakes and drinks, bric & brac stalls, beat the goalie and lots of other games. Mrs Maxted, Assistant Principal says “The students have done an amazing job raising lots of money that these charities will really benefit from. It is also nice for the charities to be coming into the Academy to recognise the efforts of the students.” Above: Ann and Stephen receive the cheques from students Sophia Yakub, Connor Bradbury and Darcie Lacey watched by staff members.
Carers Centre officially opens Great news for everyone who cares! The new carers’ centre is now open in Rotherham, having been officially opened by Coun. John Doyle, Rotherham Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care. Also attending the event at the new Drummond Street premises, were the Mayor of Rotherham, Coun. Shaukat Ali, and the Leader of the Council, Coun. Roger Stone. Rotherham Carers’ Corner – the name chosen by carers - is a resource centre that offers advice, information and support to all carers across the Borough. It offers a range of facilities including two private rooms, a meeting area, a ‘chill-out’ area, projector and screen, internet access and an information kiosk. Flexible to meet the changing needs of carers, the building can be utilised as a desk area, meeting room and relax area. It has two large windows which will display relevant information for carers from appropriate agencies regarding services and activities. The location is directly across from the bus station, library, theatre and council offices and there are a high number of disabled parking bays to allow access to the centre at the library, Norfolk House and in front of the bus station. It is near the Rotherham Market and local town centre facilities and has level access. Coun. John Doyle said he was delighted to he opening the centre - having been an advocate for carers for many years. He added: “The fact that carers give so freely of their time is beyond dispute. The fact that no council, no government and no social service scheme could service without them is beyond dispute – and it is also beyond dispute that we have a duty to do all that we can to make their life easier. “The beauty of this centre is that it has been shaped by carers, will be used by carers and will benefit carers. Because of this, I think that some of the solutions that will come about from the centre will be innovative and daring and will genuinely improve the lives of the thousands of Rotherham people who are carers. “This building will be the flagship for caring in Rotherham and will provide support, encouragement and solutions for carers throughout the borough. This is the centre that carers have been asking for. This is the centre that carers have been demanding and this is the centre that carers have deserved for a long time.” Coun. Richard Russell, the Rotherham Carers’ Champion, also expressed his delight at the opening. He said: “It is wonderful to see Carers getting something back. It is vital that somebody never feels that they have to struggle on their own and this centre will be a place for carers to receive the facilities and recognition they need and deserve." Patron of the Rotherham Carers’ Forum, MP for Rotherham Denis MacShane, said: “I was fortunate enough to be able to attend two of the events where Carers were asked for their opinions last year and was struck by just how innovative the whole process was. Carers have spoken about a centre for many years now and at last this has become a reality. I think this will be an important and valuable resource.” Local solicitors Howells has already donating £1,000 to the setting up of the project. Howells is one of many organisations providing professional advice and support at the centre on a regular basis. Others include the Learning Disability Service, Crossroads, BME Carers, Job Centre Plus, Macmillan Nurses, Anchor Housing, Shelter, the Carers Forum, the Parents Carers Forum, Carers 4 Carers, Mental Health Services, Energy Efficiency, the Alzheimer’s Society, Barnardo’s, and Welfare Rights.
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June 2010
Community News
Reaching out to help in Maltby Reach Day and Community Services is a specialist day service in Maltby, where people with autism and behavioural difficulties can have day time activities, either in house or in the community. It has two satellite centres at Maple Avenue, Maltby and the Elliott Centre at Bagsley Moor Lane Services provided include sporting activities, team games, swimming, yoga and many more. There are also life skills lessons such as preparing meals and understanding healthy eating options,
and shopping. There are also lessons designed to teach other life issues such as bus training. There are also classes in listening skills and help in looking for work placement. Currently people from the Maple Avenue centre are working towards opening a cafe once a week at the Full Life Church and operate a car wash service at the Elliott Centre. Recently the Maltby centre has begun helping with the distribution of the maltby news. Work has also begun on an A-Z of Maltby and a newsletter.
A series of new projects have been introduced recently, which include home improvement, woodwork skills, and gardening. The latter has resulted in the cultivation of a new allotment. In the past there has been a pantomime production in conjunction with the New Life Church. As well as this aray of activities an interactive room has recently been introduced to facilitate sensory sessions. The Maltby group met with recently with Park Ranger Carl Pedley who mentioned he needed some help with setting up an Easter egg hunt. The group were involved with helping to make the clues and hide them in the park before the Easter egg hunt began. A small group were ranger for the elder children on Coronation Park encouraging small children and families to come into the park and take part and another group (pictured) helped to give clues where the prizes could be found and to make sure that the clues were not taken from their hiding places on the bowling green. All had a brilliant day and really enjoyed giving something back to the local community. The people who helped were: Lyndsey Wedgwood, Amelia South, Dan Hilton, Joe Wiggett, Daniel Crapper, Darren Jackson, Darren Warmsley, Donna Ridesdale and Laura Southwell. Pictured left: Lyndsey, Amelia, Dan, Joe and Daniel.
Full Life Church is to open another large Community and Conference Venue on Monday 28th June at 11.00am. Following the building of a new Worship and Concert hall four years ago the new Community and Conference Venue is the final phase of an ambitious project. The hall will be available for all kinds of events and meetings run by both the Church and wider Community. Renovations have also been carried out to Full Life Reception. This will assist the many visitors coming through to access Sunbeams Nursery and events being held every week throughout the Church Complex. The Hall will seat up to 250 people and has a very contemporary and welcoming feel to it. The opening ceremony will be attended by the Mayor of Rotherham and a welcome is extended to everyone in the Maltby Community and surrounding area who would like to attend. The church is also equally excited to announce that a Romanian Children’s Choir, Caminul Felix, will be performing at the opening event. The Choir receive support from various individuals and organisations in Maltby and are well known to many in the area. The visit forms part of their current UK tour. The opening event will also include an audio visual presentation, exhibitions and light refreshments. The Choir will also be in Concert on Tuesday 29th June 7.30pm at Full Life Church. Entry is free but an offering will be taken for the Choir, The new Hall has been made possible by the generosity of numerous people and organisations. Special acknowledgments and thanks are expressed to Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Interior Contracts Specialists, Riverdale Flooring, Woods Decorators, A White Decorator, Core Telecom and numerous volunteers for their kind help and support.
e with a dif fere e Hom r a nce C A
e
offering perman Home ent g n or r ari r people with learning disa c e b g u i litie spite in or fo v s f ca Lo r A
New community venue to open
All enquiries please contact: Andrea Briggs (Manager) direct on Mobile: 07980 352 695
Respecting everyone’s privacy, dignity and choices
Situated close to the heart of Rotherham, the four-bedroomed home cares for people with learning disabilities, offering full-time and respite care. Established for ten years the home is managed by Andrea Briggs, who worked in occupational therapy for 13 years and has ten years mangement experience, as well as holding a national Management Award. We are inspected by the National Care Standards on a regular basis and have consistently been given a “Good” rating, The home organise regular trips and holidays as well as lots of activities. We create an atmosphere of a real family home, whilst respecting everyone’s privacy, dignity and choices. There are also links to advocacy groups and people are encouraged to put forward their own ideas. We aim to improve everyone’s social life, and promote independence. Families and people interested in visiting are welcome to come and view our home. We would be pleased to see you.
12 www.maltbynews.co.uk
June 2010
Community News
Festival of Football 2010
It’s that time of year again! Following the continuing success of their annual summer football competition, Maltby Juniors Football Club held the tournament for the 18th year on Saturday and Sunday 5th & 6th June 2010 at Maltby Academy’s Playing Fields.
Traditional and Modern The Modern Barber on High Street Maltby opened at the beginning of this month from Tuesday the 8th of June. The proprietor Michelle Daniels said “I wanted to open a salon for lads and men which is both traditional and modern.” There is a comfortable waiting area, brand new chairs and equipment and a flat screened T.V. They have another 2 rooms in the salon which will be opened soon to offer customers more services. The Modern Barber is open most evenings till 7.00pm with an early morning start on Saturday’s at 8.00am. They provide special rates for children,
pensioners and students. With no appointments necessary just walk in and you will receive a warm and friendly welcome from all the staff. Stockists of the award winning MEN-U hair and skin products.
June 2010
www.maltbynews.co.uk 13
Community News
June 2010
14 www.maltbynews.co.uk
MALTBY COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER FOR A CLEAN UP OF THE CRAGS The residents and partners of Maltby came together on a sunny Saturday afternoon armed with litter pickers to give the Crags Meadow a well deserved clean up. Maltby Town Council had kindly donated the hire of the skip for the afternoon with the local Co-Operative providing tea and coffee. By the end of the afternoon the Meadow looked better for the work but there is still a need for much more concentrated work on the site but thanks to the partners and residents who attend the Maltby Wood Lee Common and Crags Meadow Steering Group the area is now getting the attention it deserves. Further information about the works on Maltby Crags/Crags Meadow and the Steering Group is available from Lucy Cheetham of Groundwork Dearne Valley on 01226 740077 or by emailing lucy. cheetham@groundwork.org.uk
Maltby Coat of Arms Maltby Town Council is looking into the possibility of obtaining the Maltby Coat of Arms, granted to Maltby in 1958. It was used up until 1974 when Maltby Urban District Council was dissolved, resulting in Maltby losing the coat of arms. For many years the coat of arms was proudly displayed at the now demolished Civic Centre and swimming baths. The Town Council agreed that this identity of Maltby ought not to be lost and that Maltby should have the right to use the coat of arms. Currently Maltby Town Council is only able to use an emblem, which many people feel does not reflect the
true identity of Maltby. The Council continue to promote Maltby and by obtaining the Coat of Arms it will provide once again an identity that reflects how proud we all are of our Town. Councillor Jenny Andrews At the Annual General Meeting of the Rotherham Neighbourhood Watch Association, which took place at the Bailey Suite on Tuesday 11th of May, Cllr Keith Stringer was elected as the association’s Funding Officer
Book your Party at the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall in 2010!! If you are planning a celebration this year and haven’t yet booked a venue, why not consider the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall? We have rooms available for hire to accommodate parties of all shapes, sizes and budgets.
Rooms available • Large Hall capable of seating 80 guests for dining • Open Stage for disco’s or live bands • Separate lounge for quiet seating or buffet area • Fully Licensed Bar • Secure Garden with seating area and option of Marquee’s for additional undercover outdoor seating and further space for bouncy castles etc. We are currently taking bookings for the following; • Afternoon or Evening Parties – Birthdays, Anniversaries, Leaving Do’s etc • Kids Parties • Funeral Teas. And coming soon • Civil Naming Ceremonies – an alternative to the traditional Christening service. • Renewal of Wedding Vows. ***Party Packages available shortly***
If you would like more information on any of the above, please call Maltby Town Council on 01709 814060. Alternatively, you can arrange an appointment to come in for a look around and discuss your requirements with a member of staff.
Maltby Festival Dates Sunday 8th August Gala Day on Coronation Park Monday 9th August Youth Night Coronation Park Tuesday 10th August Talent Show Edward Dunn Memorial Hall Wednesday 11th August Family shows and quizzes Edward Dunn Memorial Hall Thursday 12th August Art Exhibition around Photography venue to be announced Friday 13th August Party in the Park and BBQ Coronation Park Saturday 14th August Sports Day Coronation Park
ALL start times to be announced The Festival Group are looking for entrants for: The Talent competition and the Art Exhibition. Both events are open to all ages and will give an opportunity for everyone to show off their particular talents. This years Arts exhibition, is around Photography and places are open to local professional or amateur photographers. To book a place or to find out more about Maltby Festival contact: maltby-festival@ hotmail.co.uk or contact Donna on 07867995195, visit our website maltbyfestival@synthasite.com or find us on Facebook.
MALTBY POLICE SURGERIES Charles Foster Community Centre: 29th June at 4pm 27th July at 1pm 24th August at 4pm 28 September at 1pm 19th October at 4pm 23rd November at 1pm The Grange Centre, St Bartholomews Close 29th June at 11am 27th July at 11am 24th August at 11am 28 September at 11am 19th October at 11am 23rd November at 11am The surgeries are run by PC905 MCGANN from the Maltby Safer Neighbourhood Team.
Maltby Town Councillors Mrs K E Usher - Chair 01709 769430 karen.usher@live.co.uk
B Slade - Vice Chair 01709 814748 slade.b@sky.com
Mrs J M Andrews 07757287941 jenniferandrews1@sky.com
K F Stringer 01709 816582 kstrngr5@aol.com
M V Ainsworth 01709 816903 ainsworthmark@sky.com
Mrs J Anderson 01709 816734
M J Bradford 01709 813409 mathew_bradford_2000@yahoo. com.uk
Mrs J Bradford 01709 813409/07969 957871 joyatmaltby@yahoo.co.uk
D J Brennan 01709 790871 djbrennan84@yahoo.co.uk
J Carratt 01709 815527 jon.carratt@hotmail.com
A D Foster 01709 790789 andy@eco-design.biz
Mrs B Fuller-Ainsworth 01709 816903
J C Kirk 01709 816445 john@chutney.plus.com
Mrs June Madden jmadden999@btinternet.com
C McMahon 07824317415 chris.mcmahon@raobgle.org.uk
Mrs A L Rushforth 01709 814894 amyrushforth@rotherham.gov.uk
P Scholey 01709 813630/07721 310174 scholeymaltby@aol.com
Mrs C Stringer 01709 816582 kstrngr5@aol.com
Maltby Town Council Surgeries Every Friday at the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall 14:00 - 15:00. Everyone Welcome
June 2010
www.maltbynews.co.uk 15
BEST KEPT GARDEN COMPETITION 2010 ENTRY FORM Judging will take place Wednesday 28 July 2010 OPEN TO ALL MALTBY RESIDENTS PLEASE TICK THE BOX TO ENTER THE CATEGORIES
Best Display Basket Best Kept Garden Best Yard/Patio Best Container (YOU MAY ENTER ALL THE CATEGORIES FOR WHICH YOU ARE ELIGIBLE).
Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Chair and Vice Chair Karen Usher and Ben Slade have replaced Jenny Andrews and Keith Stringer respectively as Chair and Vice Chair of the Town Council. Karen moved to Maltby in 2003, and was elected to the Town Council in 2007, and says she wants the Council to be “listening, discussing and trying to get done what the public want”. Karen is keen that the public retain faith in the Council and see that it is working in
their best interests. Ben, meanwhile is a familiar figure around the town known to most of the public. As well as being a member of the Town Council he also represents Maltby on Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council as an Independent. The new pairing took charge at the last Town Council meeting on 20th May.
EXHIBITION OF MALTBY HISTORY Since the opening of Maltby Colliery, Maltby has seen a lot of changes in its history. There has been expansion in housing and population, which continues today. Recently Maltby has seen the Civic Centre and the swimming baths demolished to make way for the new leisure and service centre. The Crags School was demolished and replaced by the new Crags School and future builds include the Maltby Academy. Recently, in our news pages, Maltby Town Council asked for old photographs of the Crossley Memorial and was delighted with the response and interest generated. This prompted the idea of a photographic exhibition of the history of Maltby. This is an appeal for old photographs of Maltby, to enable the Town Council to produce an exhibition of the history of Maltby. The Council would be interested in the
following subjects, particularly old events such as the Whit Walk, May Queen and Maypole dancing, the Beck Ball and celebrations such as V. E. day. Also welcome are photos of buildings that have now gone such as the Silver Dollar, Civic Centre, the old lido, and the swimming baths and the old shops on the high street. Coal has been instrumental in creating not only Maltby as it today, but created and influenced our community. Therefore, old photographs of Maltby Colliery and the Miner’s strike would be very welcome Finally and most importantly, pictures of the people of Maltby and old Maltby families. Should this project prove successful, a calendar may be produced and proceeds donated to local charities. All photographs will be returned Let’s celebrate our heritage and be proud of Maltby. Councillor Jenny Andrews
Annual Council Meeting Wednesday 5 May 2010 Appointment of a Chairman for the ensuing Council year. Appointment of a Vice-Chairman for the ensuing Council year. Communications received by the Chairman. Confirm minutes of a meeting of the Town Council held on Wednesday 29 April 2010 Confirm Council Committees including dates and times for the ensuing Council year. Confirm membership of Council Committees for the ensuing Council year. Agree membership and times and dates for the working parties. Nomination of members to serve on the Rotherham Borough Councils Scrutiny Panels. Consider nominating member to serve on the Maltby Common Committee Consider nominating member to serve on the
Address . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................ Postcode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Telephone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Please return completed forms to Mrs A Stewart, Maltby Town Council, The Edward Dunn Memorial Hall, Tickhill Road, Maltby, Rotherham, S66 7NQby Thursday 1st July 2010. THE JUDGES DECISION WILL BE FINAL
Maltby Town Council Meeting Schedule for 2010 -2011 All meetings take place at the Edward Dunn Memorial Hall at 6.30pm Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 24th June 2010
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 8th July 2010
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 22nd July 2010
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 9th September 2010
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 23rd September 2010
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 14th October 2010
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 28th October 2010
Doncaster Sheffield Airport Committee. Consider nomination to the South Yorkshire Branch of the Local Councils Association. Consider what steps to take to clarify whether the Rotherham Road allotment site is still regarded as statutory allotment land following the successful planning application on land adjacent to the site. Traffic problems on Manor Road and Cross Street Consider items from the National and Local County Associations: Planning Lists Nos: 15, 16 and 17 Routine RMBC matters. Exchange information.
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 11th November 201
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 25th November 2010
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 9th December 2010
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 23rd December 2010
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 13th January 2011
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 27th January 2011
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 10th February 2011
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 24th February 2011
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 10th March 2011
Maltby Town Council Meeting (Finance) – Thursday 24 June 2010
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 24th March 2011
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 14th April 2011
Finance Meeting
Date: Thursday 28th April 2011
ANNUAL ASSEMBLY WEDNESDAY 5 MAY 2010 Confirm minutes of the meeting held on Wednesday 20 May 2009. A progress report from the Town Council. Matters raised by parishioners. To agree date and time of next meeting.
Council Meeting
Date: Thursday 12th May 2011
Annual Assembly & Annual Town Council
Date: Thursday 26th May 2011
16 www.maltbynews.co.uk
June 2010
Sport
Everyone’s a winner at William Hill! One of Britain’s leading bookmakers has arrived in Maltby in time for the World Cup. Founded in 1934, William Hill is one of the best-known names in the gambling industry, providing gaming and betting services across three channels: online, on the high street and on the phone. It has been listed on the London Stock Exchange (WMH.L) since 2002 and employs over 16,600 people in the UK, Ireland, Israel and Bulgaria. “It is great to be open at last,” said Manager Rob Dixon, “We are keen to get to know the area and the people of Maltby. We are also keen to support local charitable events, so if your readers have a fundraiser coming up please get in touch with us.” In the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility report it confirms that it seeks to support the communities in which it operates through charitable donations and other relevant payments. “Obviously we are really looking forward to the World Cup and are offering some of the best prices on the High Street including on England. On our state-of-the-art gaming machines we are also offering a great football game too.” Inevitably, apart from single bets on England’s games, there are
also prices for predicting at which stage England are eliminated! “Our aim is to give our customers what they want, when they want it, where they want it. We are one of the UK’s leading bookmakers, with a trusted high-street brand based on our in-depth knowledge of fixedodds betting and our unrivalled customer service. With the advent of internet betting and gaming, we have extended our market-leading brand to a new generation of customers around the world,” said Ralph Topping, Chief Executive of William Hill. Commenting on the company’s first quarter performance this year Topping said “I am satisfied with our performance this early in the year, with an improvement shown in overall Retail turnover levels and good growth from William Hill Online in revenues, operating profit and new accounts. “Current trading across the Group is encouraging and we have much to look forward to this summer with interest in the World Cup expected to be greater than ever. Kick-off times in South Africa are favourable for our UK and European customer base and we have experienced sustained growth in football betting since the last tournament. We continue to maintain a
watchful eye on costs and are making significant investment in growing our international online business. Despite the continuing challenging market conditions, I am confident that we are on track to achieve our objectives for this year.” below: Rob, Kev and Rachel at the opening of the shop
Key facts about William Hill: • We operate in around 2,300 betting shops across the UK and Ireland, most of which are open seven days a week, offering odds and taking bets on a wide range of sporting and other events • We process over one million betting slips every day • The gaming machines that we
offer in the majority of betting shops enable customers to bet on roulette, slots and other random number generated events • Our call centres for telephone betting can handle over 600 calls simultaneously • We own and operate two Greyhound stadia (in Sunderland and Newcastle)
I VISIT MY NEW WILLIAM HILL. 23 High Street, Maltby
E DAILY ILLABLE A V A S R E FF O D N A S ZE I R P FREE BETS/P S SHOP HIS T IN P U C D L R O W E H T G DURIN
0800 44 40 40
williamhill.com