The High Life Magazine - May 2012 Edition by ICEWIRE

T h e H ig h L ife

Magazine for the Mansfield & Ashfield Area

Issue 03 May 2012 10,000 copies delivered FREE to local households

JUBLILEE CELEBRATIONS Ready to Party?

OLYMPIC FEVER The Countdown begins

4 REASONS TO STAND PROUD OF WHERE YOU LIVE AND WORK

Mansfield 2020 BALL & AWARDS Celebrating Local Business Success

Welcome to the

The High Life Hi and love my new look? Yes I have my Jubilee Party glass all ready to celebrate. Check out The High Life for lots of other reasons to celebrate with the Diamond Jubilee Parties, the Olympic celebrations on our doorstep, the Torch Relay and numerous local events. Also please come along and join in our Women in Business Celebrations at the IWB Exhibition on the 17th May. See page 24 for details of how to book. Also, I was privileged to be at the recent Mansfield 2020 Ball and Business Awards once again celebrating- this time local business success and see pages 17 & 22 for award winners. So this edition is full of congratulations, celebrations, jubilations, success, parties and so much positive inspiriting and motivational news. So enjoy what looks to be a promising May!

Diane the Editor. Photo right: Editor Diane Carter and Foysal Choudhury, owner of the Mint Indian Restaurant at the Mansfield 2020 Ball

The High Life would like to welcome on board this month’s new advertisers:Progressive Furniture

Blidworth Community Centre

Four Seasons Lawn Care

Durham Ox Restaurant

May 2012 Page 6

Stand Proud

Page 8

Olympic Fever

Page 12 Jubilee Parties

Page 34 Celebrate Mansfield Arts Festival Page 35 Sir Christopher Sterling's Car Review

The Venue

Page 17 Mansfield 2020 Ball & Awards

“Thank you for supporting The High Life with our mission to promote the fabulous Community, Corporate and Cultural Lifestyle on offer in the Mansfield & Ashfield area. Please say Thank You to these business by 'Supporting Your Local Businesses' .” Diane Editor

Page 20 Mansfield 2020 Business Group

Genuine Testimonial “Just had to let you know that only days after the new High Life Magazine came out I had a new customer who found me specifically because of my advert – just goes to show that if you’re not out there they can’t find you!! I highly recommend advertising in the High Life Magazine and I am proud to be part of it” Margaret. Why not promote your business within

The High Life With advertising from only £70 per edition Email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk

Page 24 IWB Exhibition

Plus Regular Features: Page 10 Youth Zone - A Future Page 14 Good Health Page 29 Femme Page Page 32 What’s On Page 36 Who is Working for YOU!

The High Life Our Vision Our Aim is to Promote the Fabulous Community, Culture & Corporate Lifestyle on Offer in the Mansfield & Ashfield Area. The High Life wants to promote the positive things about why you can enjoy life in our area both from a personal and business perspective. Great Community Spirit People in the Mansfield & Ashfield area are renown for being very friendly and supportive. We do talk to and help our neighbours! Cost of living Both business and residential property is more economic across the area with lower rent & rates than our neighbouring cities and towns. Cost of housing is affordable, for example you can have a fabulous detached four bed roomed house probably 2/3rds of the price of living in other local cities if not less and still live in a nice area. Travel infrastructure  10 minutes away from Junction 28 for M1North and Junction 27 We came up to stay with family in Mansfield for Easter bringing our three year old son. He was for M1South really excited to see the Major Oak and so on  A38 dual carriageway route direct to Derbyshire Sunday we took him along to the Sherwood Pines  A617 route for easy connections and straight through to Visitor’s Centre. Newark or onto A1 We had a lovely time and there was so much for  New Bus Station- This £9 million construction is now underway Zac to do enjoying his time on the park and of course we had to buy a bow and arrow so he in the centre of Mansfield could pretend to be Robin Hood.  East Midlands Airport is within 30 minutes We live in Wales and often presume Mansfield is  Two train stations - Get to London in approximately 2 hours. such a built up area but the countryside on the Get to Paris in a few hours via Eurostar drive up to the Centre and the beautiful trees  Cycle routes all around for the sporty and 'green' were amazing. Excellent Business Community We will definitely be coming again to see lots  The Mansfield 2020 Business Group at the heart of the local more. Business Community  The Business Liaison Group working hard for the local economy  Many local business boosts millions of pounds turnover or experiencing growth & expansion both nationally and internationally  Also multi cultural businesses all working together High Standard of Education Provision  Vision West Notts. College and many other local schools have outstanding Ofsted reports and excellent student results Culture & Heritage  Tourist Industry strongly related to Robin Hood  Beautiful local buildings with delightful grounds  Plus many new builds with excellent modern architecture including the new Kings Mill Hospital. A beautiful scene at night.  Forests, countryside and woodlands with amazing nature reserves. Ideal for walking or cycling Enjoyable Retail Experiences We can still boast a wide range of High Street stores and local independent businesses both reliant upon each other for encouraging visitors to the towns to spend and boost the economy.

Visit our new website: www.thehighlifemagazine.co.uk Where you can read the magazine online

Now Launching new Cocktail Menu

Enjoy

T h e H ig h L ife in Mansfield & Ashfield

Our aim at The High Life is to promote the fabulous community, culture & corporate life you can enjoy in the Mansfield & Ashfield Area. We want to simply shout about the numerous positive things about living in our area from both a business and personal perspective. Also whatever your age, sex, religion, race or background you can have a high quality of life with hope, vision and a future in the Mansfield and Ashfield area. We interviewed several local individuals who told us why they support the above statement, why they believe we should be proud of where we live and work.

High Standard of Education Provision

A Promising Career

Vision West Notts. College and many other local schools have outstanding Ofsted reports and excellent student results. Asha Khemka OBE Principal of West Nottinghamshire College stated “As a dynamic college for aspiring communities we play a key role in enabling social and economic prosperity – both for individuals and businesses across Mansfield and Ashfield.” “State-of-the-art learning” “We pride ourselves on being rated ‘outstanding’ across-the-board by Ofsted and on providing a huge range of courses and qualifications to suit everyone including GCSEs, A-Levels, vocational, part-time adult courses, apprenticeships, higher education and professional training.” “The college is also one of the country’s largest and most successful providers of training for businesses, which comes from our strength in delivering tailored training programmes that meet the needs of employers of all sizes and across a range of sectors.” “Furthermore, we are investing £24m on redeveloping our main campus to provide a state-of-the-art learning environment for all our students and trainees.”

"Shop local - Support our Economy"!

4 REASONS TO STAND PROUD OF WHERE YOU LIVE AND WORK "There are Opportunities in Mansfield”

Jamie Bourn is a 17 year old apprentice with Purpose Media, a successful Mansfield base web developer and on-line marketing specialist. He said, “Although I initially thought opportunities for an IT career in Mansfield might be limited, I discovered there is a lot of investment going into Mansfield, particularly in new office complexes which will attract businesses and help them to expand. Finding work is difficult, but there are opportunities in Mansfield. I worked hard at school and made sure this attitude continued throughout my job search, my apprenticeship studies and now in my daily work. I now have even more qualifications and an exciting future working for Purpose Media, who are committed to helping local lads like me develop a career. This is encouraging us to stay in the area and contribute to the local economy.”

Enjoyable Retail Experience We can still boast a wide range of High Street stores and local independent businesses both reliant upon each other for encouraging visitors to the towns to spend and boost the economy.

"We started our retail business on Oxford Street in Mansfield selling made to measure curtains 10 years ago in a very small retail unit with one part time assistant. Now the original shop is 10 times larger on the same site employing 5 staff. Our new Blinds shop opened on 21st April 2012 on the same site expanding the business further. Our success, we believe is due to hard work, a great team of staff and never forgetting our original vision to offer exceptional service, quality and choice. We are proud of our business and our achievements and our lovely customers in the Mansfield area have helped us by recommending us to their friends. We would say shop local and help to grow our community and economy, we do. A great big thank you to all our customers old and new and to the people of Mansfield". Alison and Phil Constantine, Atmospheric Interiors. www.atmosphericinteriors.co.uk Alison and Phil Constantine. Directors of Atmospheric Interiors Ltd

Excellent Business Community Irvin Robinson: Chair of Mansfield 2020 Business Networking Organisation This pioneering business development and networking organisation was set up with the aim of promoting and revitalising the towns of Mansfield and Ashfield in March 1991. The organisation represents the heart of the local business community, offering news, information and the opportunity to promote your business. Now boasting over 170 members and 12 directors, all of whom encourage trade and retain employment within the area, Mansfield 2020 regularly draws over 130 members to its informative monthly breakfast meetings to discuss the latest opportunities for local businesses. Chair, Irvin Robinson said, “The biggest challenge we have is probably to redefine our communities and re-establish values to unite local people. These people are our customers and our employees and it's so important to work together with other members and agencies within Mansfield 2020 to meet such challenges. Our undoubted strength is our business networking capabilities but we are also building gravitas as a voice of business for our area. Members’ interests are represented on a number of strategic bodies and we are always looking for opportunities to enhance representation. Recently, we have taken on the opportunity to present workshops and seminars to support our members through the current recession, including April’s Exporting Event, inviting our members to ‘think outside the box’ and build their businesses through sales into a totally new area”.

"Our undoubted strength is our business networking capabilities”"

STAND PROUD

Olympic Fever The Countdown Begins With Olympic fever spreading across the country, a series of community events are being organised across the District which aim to capture the Olympic spirit and showcase the variety of sport Mansfield has to offer. The Inspiring Mansfield community events, which have been awarded the Inspire 2012 mark, will see primary school children from across the District compete in a triathletics challenge and will allow people to join the celebrations. In the run up to the community events, due to take place in June, primary school children will be taking part in a tri-athletics challenge within their own schools.

the Community, plus much more. Winners from each event will then compete for gold, silver and bronze at the grand finale on 27 June at Berry Hill Park, the day before the Olympic torch relay comes to Mansfield. The finale will also showcase local sports clubs with details of how to join, for those who have been inspired to get into sport by the summer games. There will also be a parade which will include children representing each of the schools within the District.

Children from St Philip Neri with St Bede’s Catholic Primary School were the first to take part with about 120 children competing to see who can run the fastest, jump and throw the furthest on Thursday 23 February.

Inspiring Mansfield torches will be given to every school so that every child has the opportunity to hold a torch and feel part of this historic event. The Executive Mayor of Mansfield, Tony Egginton, said: “The Inspiring Mansfield events will capture the excitement of the Olympics and bring together the community to celebrate a truly historic occasion.” Photo - St Philip Neri with St Bede Primary and Nursery School, following their Tri-Athletics challenge for the Inspiring Mansfield event.

The overall winners from each primary school will go through to the semi-final held at their local secondary school. The semi finals will take place at:  Meden School & Technology College on 18 June  Queen Elizabeth’s Academy on 19 June  Samworth Church Academy on 20 June  All Saints’ Catholic School on 21 June  The Manor Academy on 22 June  The Brunts Academy on 25 June  Garibaldi College on 26 June As well as the tri-athletics competition there will also be a climbing wall, BMX displays, Mansfield Town Football in

“Mansfield has produced its own world class athletes and we hope these events will inspire the next generation to get involved in sports and aspire to become the next Rebecca Adlington OBE and Sam Hynd.“ “As part of the project every primary school in the District will receive their own Inspiring Mansfield torch and as many children as possible will be given the opportunity to carry it.” “Although Mansfield will see the official torch as it makes its way to London, very few people will have the opportunity to actually hold it. Seeing the official torch will inspire people, being able to hold an Inspiring Mansfield torch will fire the imagination.” Inspiring Mansfield has been organised by Mansfield District Council, the Mansfield Area Strategic Partnership, Nottinghamshire County Council, Vision West Notts, Sport Nottinghamshire and all schools within the District. Visit www.mansfield.gov.uk for all the latest news and events from Mansfield District Council

Olympic Torch Street Route Announcement

The Day 40 Torch route Lincoln East Midlands Saxilby East Midlands Darlton East Midlands East Markham East Midlands Tuxford East Midlands Kirton East Midlands Boughton East Midlands

Front left) Executive Mayor Tony Egginton, (front right to back) Bev Smith, Corporate Director of Regeneration and Regulation, Phil Lyons MASP Coordinator, Ruth Marlow Managing Director at Mansfield District Council, Cllr Sonya Ward Peafields Ward Councillor and Cllr John Smart.

See the For more details including a link to the local Olympic Torch Proposed Street route.

Edwinstowe East Midlands Mansfield East Midlands Kelham East Midlands Newark-on-Trent East Midlands Balderton East Midlands Grantham East Midlands Radcliffe-on-Trent East Midlands Nottingham East Midlands

Day 41 Torch Route Day 40 Thursday 28th June

Local Youngsters Carry The Torch On Thursday 28 June 2012 the Olympic Flame will be passing through Mansfield as part of its tour around the country in the run up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. People of Mansfield District and surrounding communities are invited to welcome the Olympic Flame; share in the excitement the relay will bring and celebrate the achievements of the local Torchbearers. The route for the Mansfield Relay Route May can be viewed online at www.mansfield.gov.uk/torch. On its journey through the District, the Olympic Torch will pass through Mansfield Town Centre where street entertainers will line the route, as well as stopping off for a crew break at the Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre (please note that the swimming centre will not be open to the public until 5pm). The Torchbearers confirmed to carry the Flame include those that were successful through the public nomination processes run by LOCOG and the Presenting Partners, Coca Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung. Two local young people carrying the torch are Tom Fuller and Kane Hoy, from Joseph Whitaker School, Rainworth. Tom and Kane are gearing up for the chance of a lifetime as they look forward to becoming Olympic torchbearers on the 28th of June. They’ll be representing Mansfield and The Joseph Whitaker School in the torch relay from Land’s End to London prior to the opening ceremony in July – and they’re thrilled to be taking part in the exciting event. Their route details are yet to be confirmed, but for now they are looking forward to carrying the famous torch in their local community. Tom, in Year 10, said: ‘My mum nominated me for dedication to sport and football in the community. I’m also a Sports Leader in school and a leader with Burton Albion Football Club. It’s an honour to be carrying the torch – but I’m nervous I’ll drop it!’ Kane, in Year 8, also confesses to a few nerves, but is excited at the prospect of representing his country in the Olympic build-up: ‘My mum also nominated me for the way I have handled bullying issues. I thought she was joking at first – but when I heard I had been picked, I was really pleased. It is very nerve-wracking though!’ Well done to both boys – and we’ll be following their exciting day on the 28th of June

Planning a Jubilee Party? – Be Prepared

ommunities are being advised to contact Nottinghamshire County Council as soon as possible for support and advice if they are planning street parties to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. A handful of communities in Notts have made contact already with County’s Highways teams to seek advice on holding Jubilee street parties. The council forecasts that the period between Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 10 – which also includes Bank Holidays and school holidays – will be very busy with street party Jubilee celebrations. Notts County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, Richard Jackson said: "We removed as much of the bureaucracy as possible for authorising street parties last year during the Royal Wedding, and are again looking forward to helping people organise their street parties for the Jubilee Celebrations. "I would anticipate that the celebrations could grow following last year. People had a taste of street celebrations last year and with more days in which to celebrate with the the council will provide organisers with required traffic signs. Highways staff will deliver signs to a pre-arranged address and collect them after the event. In more complex areas organisers may be required to provide additional signs. The council aims to create ‘traffic free environments’ for approved parties, which effectively stops traffic from going into the designated area during a set time.

Photo Credit and caption: Fancy Dress Party, Village Hall, Main Street, East Leake, 1953, Mrs. A Ruddy. Picture courtesy of www.picturethepast.org.uk

Bank Holidays we expect there will be a lot of demand for organising street parties. We aim to get rid of red tape and are keen to work with communities to help them lay on their celebrations but we do advise people to get in touch as early as possible so we can help with the organisation of their particular event.” To reduce costs for all Jubilee events, the county council welcomes early applications and hope to hear from people in the county as soon as possible. On the day of the celebrations where locations are approved,

People can find out more by visiting the Notts County Council website at: http://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/ streetparties/ Top five tips for your street party: 1 – Contact Notts County Council to register interest using the street party form for support and advice 2 – The location should be a place where the majority of the party participants live 3 – Consider taking out insurance 4 – Avoid selecting a road which is a bus route in your planning stage 5 – Prepare your party – and enjoy! Article C/O Notts County Council Direct line 01159 773 791

Please send your jubilee party photos to editor and we will aim to publish a selection in a future edition. Send to Diane@marathon-media.co.uk

Royalty Photo Celebration at Rufford Rufford’s Right Royal Extravaganza takes place at Rufford Craft Centre from Tuesday 15th May to Sunday 10th June. There is also a preview: Sunday 13th May, 2pm – 4pm. To celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Rufford Gallery turns regal with some right royal exhibits and majestic fun themed activities! Nottinghamshire County Council recently launched a request for local residents to send photographs celebrating past royal events in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and have build up a display of images of Nottinghamshire’s past royal celebrations for display. With family snaps from 1953 when the whole country celebrated the coronation, photos of street parties in the silver jubilee in ’77 or even dancing the night away for the Golden Jubilee in 2002 there are some great images so well worth a visit. Amidst photographs and memorabilia from the Queen’s Coronation, Silver and Golden Jubilees the gallery will be adorned with bunting and ceramics celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. And there are some excellent opportunities for people to get involved in the fun. At the Exhibition preview on Sunday, May 13th, from 2-4pm where visitors are invited to adorn themselves in red, white and blue (jewels optional) throw on your crown and join us for an afternoon fit for a Queen! For more details about these events, visit: www3.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/enjoying/events/ where the brochure can be downloaded as a pdf document. The What’s On at Rufford Craft Centre guide is also available at libraries, County Contact Points, country parks, including Rufford and the Craft Centre itself, tourist information centres, some local theatres, art galleries, museums and local attractions.

Good Health and Feel Great with The High Life Modern Stressful Life Making You SCREAM!! Symptoms of stress often build up gradually before you start noticing them. Stress can affect how you feel, how you think, how you behave and how your body works. It affects people in different ways but if you are stressed you may have some of the following symptoms. You may feel irritable, anxious, moody or overwhelmed? You may find that you worry constantly, always imagine the worst, and go over things again and again? Your behaviour may start to change and you may drink more, smoke more or start to smoke, feel guilty if you try to relax, become forgetful or clumsy, have temper outbursts, and struggle to focus or concentrate.

stated â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most important thing you could do every single day to combat the stress is to make sure you are hydrated as well as you could possibly be. I always recommend to my clients to have a small bottle of filtered or still mineral water and just keep sipping the water at regular intervals throughout the day. And in the evening I'd suggest having a cup of calming camomile tea or a Night Time tea that you can buy in any supermarket or health food shops. As far as food is concerned my suggestion would be to carry a small bag of mixed nuts, seed and dried fruit in your bag to replenish your energy levels throughout the day - it's convenient and healthy." Visit www.jpdynamicfitness.com

Exercise A fabulous tool for de-stressing and as well as all the medical evidence regarding prevention of Your body may also react and you can suffer many illness and diseases, the NHS website; headaches, muscle tension and pain, stomach www.nhs.co.uk, recommends to stay healthy or problems, feeling dizzy, dry mouth, sweating, breathlessness and even sexual problems? We to improve your health, adults should do at least always recommend you see a GP with any health 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of issues of concern, but you can consider helping moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. yourself too. There are many things you can do. Moderate-intensity aerobic activity means you're Diet Eat healthily. We often skip meals or grab unhealthy snacks in our busy day to day lives. At the end of the day you may find that you are hungry but too tired to eat. Lying in bed hungry you will struggle to sleep, which in return can increase anxiety issues. Jurga Proudlove Personal Fitness Coach & Weight Loss Guru Practitioner (above)

working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat. Examples of moderate-intensity aerobic activities are: walking fast, riding a bike on level ground or with few hills, playing doubles tennis or even doing the gardening. All the feel good endorphins are released during and after exercise and massive problems can seem so minimal. Continued on next pageâ&#x20AC;Ś..

Feel Great

Photo: David Castillo Dominici

â&#x20AC;Ś...Continued from previous page

Hypnotherapy Sometimes people consider alternative therapy as a solution and local Clinical Hypnotherapist Clem Turner of the Clem Turner Hypnotherapy Clinic stated "Around 75% of clients who ask us for help are suffering from anxiety or stress. I have been specializing in stress, anxiety and panic attacks for many years now and have developed a five week programme which has proved to be successful in helping people with their stress and anxiety issues.

Good Health

We teach people coping skills to help our clients cope better with the stresses of everyday life. www.clemturner.co.uk for more information

ARE STRESS, ANXIETY PANIC ATTACKS AND NEGATIVE THOUGHTS RUINING YOUR LIFE? OUR TREATMENTS CAN HELP YOU! The Clem Turner Hypnotherapy Cognitive and Behavioural Practice Offers you male and female Qualified Clinical Hypnotherapists To Help You Start To Rebuild Your Life Take a look at some of our testimonials on www.clemturner.co.uk To find out how we can help you or to book an appointment Call today Sutton in Ashfield 01623 556234 or Rosegarth Clinic on 01623 658224

Regular Feature: Planning For the Future Shirley Burns joins national advice service for care fees planning Local independent financial adviser Shirley Burns from Sense Financial Solutions, has joined a national advice service for care fees planning. The countrywide service, Symponia, provides financial planning help and advice for those needing long term care either in a care home or at home. It also works closely with care homes, providers and professionals such as solicitors and accountants. Selected advisers countrywide are being invited to join the new service each year, and Shirley Burns was selected as Symponia’s

Case Study (names changed) Winifred is an 88 year old widow who has one daughter Claire who lives nearby and worked full time and has a growing family. Winifred has lived in her current house for over 60 years, but following a severe stroke, she was admitted to hospital and needed constant round the clock care. Winifred and Claire looked at various care homes, but in reality, Winifred wanted to remain in her own home with her memories and her possessions. Claire knew that her mother was unhappy about the prospect of moving into a care home, but didn’t really think that staying at home was a possibility, mainly because she thought it would be far too expensive. However, after discussing the matter with Shirley and a local domiciliary care agency, they worked out that it was going to be less than she had thought and represented a real and preferred alternative to going into a care home. Once the exact cost of the care package was known, Shirley calculated the financial implications looking at care costs, household expenses, discretionary spending alongside existing and potential future income. Winifred wasn’t aware that she could claim Attendance Allowance so with the help of her local Age UK, an application was submitted and she was soon to enjoy an additional income of £73.60 per week. Winifred had a difference between her income and the cost of her living expenses of £25,000 per annum. In addition to her property, Winifred had about £100,000 in her deposit account which was producing very little return. She used £80,000 of this money to buy an Immediate Care Annuity, which now pays out £25,000 tax free towards the cost of her care fees each year. The money is paid directly to the care agency and increases by 5% each year to help offset the increase in care fees. Winifred is thrilled that she can stay at home and her daughter has said “It is great to see Mum so settled and content. The care plan has removed Mum’s anxiety about moving and running out of money and the live in carer has mitigated my worries about Mum’s safety and independence” . The care plan will continue for the rest of Winfred’s life and, should circumstances unexpectedly change in the future and she has to enter a care home, the plan will simply move with her.

member to cover the local area. Only advisers with specialist knowledge can join Symponia and each is subject to a rigorous annual examination, Code of Practice & Conduct, and Customer Charter. Symponia is the brainchild of husband and wife team Janet and Jeremy Davies, who between them have over 20 years’ experience in

the sector, and has been developed in response to the need to make high quality expert care fees planning advice consistently available across the UK. Symponia is the Greek word for compassion and symbolises the importance of adopting a sympathetic and helping attitude when advising on what can be a difficult and traumatic time for potentially vulnerable people. Shirley said: “As someone who is committed to long term care fees planning, Symponia appealed both because it is a national group and also because its quality-led approach matches what I have always tried to deliver to my clients. The Symponia brand will enable me to not only have a greater presence with care providers and other professionals locally, but in addition I gain a wider, more trusted recognition than I could achieve on my own.” If you would like to know more about the services Shirley can offer or to receive a copy of her Guide to Care Fees planning, please contact Shirley on 07801290172 or email her at shirley@itmakessense.net

Welcome to the High Life Corporate Section    

Keep up to date with local business news A great platform for your business promotion Diary Dates, Networking News, Business Events PLUS. Positive Information about Corporate Life in the Mansfield & Ashfield Area.

JOIN OUR CORPORATE GROUP ON LINKED-IN VIA DIANE@MARATHON-MARKETING.CO.UK FOR DISCUSSIONS, PROMOTIONS AND B2B RECOMMENDATIONS/REVIEWS & INTRODUCTIONS

2020 Business Awards 2012

Welcome to the Highlife CONTENTS 17 Welcome to the Corporate Section 18 NNN Business Group 20 Mansfield 2020 23 DNCC Business Report 25 It’s Women’ Business Event 26 Profile Plus 28 Corporate Diary Dates

Leading firms were recognised for their achievements at the annual 2020 ball and business awards on Saturday 24th March at the Civic Centre in Mansfield. This successful annual event, hosted by local networking organisation Mansfield 2020, acknowledges and rewards the achievement of local businesses that have shown an entrepreneurial and enterprising fortitude, whilst recognising their contribution to the economic development of the Nottinghamshire area. Mansfield 2020 Operations Manager and event organiser, Sam Saunders, said: “The evening provided a fabulous opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments of businesses that drive the corporate success of the county. The outstanding calibre of finalists reflected the excellence and depth of the local business community and the judges particularly wanted to acknowledge all the short listed finalists with a certificate of commendation in recognition of their achievement and fortitude in the current climate.” Business of the Year sponsored by Vision West Notts was awarded to Trampoline Central. The Company is an owner-led business providing free advice and consultancy services, supply and maintenance of trampoline equipment, coaching and mentoring services, special needs trampoline sessions and is a leading provider of teachers’ trampoline courses. Commended were School’s Advisory Service and Untapped Resource CIC.

Continued on page 22…...

Credit for some images: www.Photostock.com

Photo: Asha Khemka OBE with Janice Kissane

No Nonsense Networking Breakfast Business Group VENUE: White Post Inn, Ollerton Road, Farnsfield Time: 7.30 - 9 am DATE: Tuesday 8th May 2012

OPEN THE DOORWAY TO NEW BUSINESS THROUGH:  Meeting Like Minded Business People  Taking the opportunity to Present your Business  Plus Support, Motivation & Inspiration at Whatever Stage

Your Business is at  New Start Up Businesses most welcome!

To book the next meeting on Tuesday 8th May Call, Chair: Diane Carter: Tel: 07916 245 367 or email; diane@marathon-media.co.uk Visit www.nononsensejustnetworking.wordpress.com

A Warm welcome is offered to all SME businesses to attend the local & well established No Nonsense Networking Business Group At the April meeting members and guests enjoyed a friendly and informal meeting with a short presentation by Chris Adkin of Adkin Sinclair Chartered Accountants. Chris offered a talk entitled 'Top Ten Tips' when offering presentations followed by a short discussion time. The NNN has recently set up a specialist support team and whatever stage you are at within your business we are here to offer free advise related to marketing/advertising, tax, legal issues and cash flow & profit management. The NNN offers a great membership package including;  The opportunity to present your business to our group  Free use of the member's directory  Discounted attendance to our events/workshops  10% Discount of all Marathon Media Advertising* Welcome on board new April Member; Chris Bramall (left) of Ollie's Fun Shack Pictured with Diane (middle) and Chris (right) *Not in line with other promotions

No Nonsense Networking Business Review Panel Come along and Talk To Our Team about YOUR Business Dreams and Make them a Reality Come along to our next NNN 'Den' Business Review Panel and put forward your business idea to our panel in May 2012. It is a relaxed and informal setting and we want to listen to your dreams and goals no matter what stage of business, whether new set up, wanting to expand, grow or divert into new areas?

Why Talk to Us? Our Specialist Business Review Panel consists of : Diane Carter -Marathon Media Marketing/PR Specialist in relation to advertising, PR, social media and internet marketing Chris Adkin Adkin Sinclair Chartered Accounts for advice related to registration , business accounts & tax issues Trevor Morley TM Financial Solutions to support you with cash flow, debt management and profit margins Russell Jones Fidler & Pepper Solicitors for legal advice related to setting up in business, purchasing & buying businesses, leasing commercial property and so much more.

Testimonial Chris Bramall of Ollie's Fun Shaw "I went along to the Business Review Panel prior to setting up my business. I shared my ideas for a great children's play venue which my wife and I were planning to open. The team offered great advice and it gave me lots of confidence. Here we are almost six months later and the business; Ollie's Fun Shack opens soon in Ollerton. So thank you to Diane, Chris, Russell and Trevor for all your help.”

All attendees receive a Business Support Pack, the opportunity of a FREE initial consultation with the team and FREE profile build in The High Life. Call Diane Chair of NNN on: 07916 245 367 or email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk

Welcome to Mansfield 2020 The pioneering business development and networking organisation was setup with the aim of promoting and revitalising the towns of Mansfield and Ashfield. Introduction to the Mansfield 2020 Board Name: Tony Delahunty Business Name: Mansfield 103.2 Business Type: Commercial Radio Station Q: Why you joined the Mansfield 2020 Board?

I initially joined Mansfield 2020 as I felt that it established a good profile of the local business community and a profile that Mansfield 103.2 should be part of.

It continues to give me the opportunity to meet many movers and shakers in the area and that crucially means that we as a radio station must play an integral part in providing the area through the mediums of both advertisements and editorial. During the course of our membership the radio station has twice been nominated as commercial radio station of the year, of which we are very proud. Also, during this time I have had the opportunity of meeting many people in and from different walks of life that have given me a very different slant on matters of finance and marketing.

Mansfield 2020 Up and Coming Events Thursday 10th May: After Hours Networking Venue: Armstrong Hall Business Centre Time: 5.30 pm until 7 pm The next 'After Hours' Networking event is being held by Mansfield District Council at the Armstrong Hall Business Centre, Mansfield, NG19 7LA, see details to the right. Come along and enjoy a relaxed and informal time of networking. A prize draw will take place on the evening for a Quarter Page 'Profile Build' in The High Life M2020 Section!

Thursday 31st May: Business Breakfast Meeting Venue: Mansfield Civic Centre Time: 7.30 am until 9 am We warmly welcome you as a guest or member to come along to our May meeting. Following on from our traditional English breakfast our first presentation is offered by Andrew Coates, Managing Director of Strategic Corporate Finance Transactions Ltd. The talk entitled “Buying or Selling a Company –understand all your options” briefs on how both buying and selling can be a daunting and complex process and it is often not clear where to begin, who to talk to or what the full range of possibilities might be. Our second speaker is Dr Milind Tadpatrikar, GP and Chair of Rosewood Federated Commissioning Group (part of Mansfield & Ashfield CCG) entitled; Mansfield and Ashfield NHS Clinical Commissioning Group. Dr Tadpatrikar will be offering an insight into NHS changes, such as the Health & Social Care Bill, and what they mean for the population of Mansfield and Ashfield. The presentation will look at local health needs and priorities in Mansfield & Ashfield and how patients can get involved.

5 Great Reasons to Join the M2020 Membership in 2012

Sponsors of the April breakfast meeting are Mansfield Garage Doors. Kirk Silo (Installations) Ltd, now trading as Mansfield Garage Doors, is a limited company and was incorporated on the 29th May 1968 by Ronald Kirk, Jean Kirk and Graham Kirk. Kirk Silos diversified into the garage door market in the early 80’s and from 1989 this became their primary business.

Excellent networking opportunities Business information and updates Members’ database Business listing in members’ directory and virtual directory Event sponsorship Opportunity to promote your products and services

The Company prides itself on a very low staff turnover having many employees with almost 20 years service. Today, the company employs 14 people and it is a family run business employing 5 members of the family. In April 2009, Mansfield Garage Doors moved to larger premises on Great Central Road where the new showroom has over 20 working garage doors and gates. Garage Doors are the primary business but the company also offers other services and products such including; electric gates, sun awnings, barriers and entrance systems. Visit www.mansfieldgaragedoors.co.uk

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To reserve a place at the any of the above events please contact Sam Saunders on 01623 422010 or email admin@mansfield2020.com for further details. www.mansfield2020.com

Mansfield 2020 Patrons

Welcome to Mansfield 2020 Mansfield 2020 networking organisation represents the heart of the local business community, offering news, information and the opportunity to promote your business

After Hours Networking Thursday 10th May 5.30 pm - 7 pm The May After Hours event is to be held at the Armstrong Hall Business Centre. Alison North, Economic Regeneration Officer at Mansfield District Council offers a warm invitation stating; “This event gives us the ideal opportunity to showcase the high quality, flexible facilities offered at Armstrong Hall. It’s important to give prospective tenants the opportunity to experience the building for themselves”. Affordability is also very important and under the current cash back scheme an office is effectively rent-free for around two months, which is a very competitive offer. This particular centre gives access to a good-sized meeting room and a spacious, dedicated car park. The Business Place is a network of four business centres across the Mansfield district ideally suited for small businesses to take their first step onto the property ladder with offices from as little as £228 per month. See details in the Up and Coming Events to the left of how to book.

Mansfield 2020 Member's Testimonial from Stephen Denham of Lloyds TSB Banking. "Working closely for many years with many local businesses from start up to turnover of £15m provides me with an insight and understanding how the low economy is performing. Through this first hand knowledge I can help shape the strategy for Mansfield 2020 moving forward and maximise the benefits for businesses and the local community through what Mansfield 2020 has to offer".

Mansfield 2020 Businesses Raise Money for Local Charity Michael Hawley (right) from the John Eastwood Trust receives a cheque for £1,063 from Irvin Robinson, chairman of Mansfield 2020 at the March breakfast meeting. The funds were raised through a charity prize draw at the annual 2020 Ball and Business Awards, which was held on the 24 March 2012 at the Civic Centre in Mansfield.

The March After Hours Prize Draw Profile was won by John S Henshaw, Managing Director of Bedrooms and Kitchens by Henshaws. John offers an introduction into his family owned and run business. The large showroom is based at 176 Nottingham Road situated between Sainsbury’s and Il Rosso with a customer only car park at the front of the shop. Henshaws design, manufacture, supply & install fitted furniture, kitchens, bedrooms, home offices & bathrooms. The business boasts over 40 years experience of fitted furniture and design & plan all our bedrooms and home office furniture. Henshaws is a family business and my son Ben deals with all the kitchens and we have a specialist bathroom designer; Daryl, working with us. We project manage all our work and deal with everything from minor building work, plastering, electric & plumbing through to tiling and flooring. Our prices are very competitive and one of our biggest issues is that because of our large and well designed showroom people think we are going to be more expensive. However, as we manufacture a lot of our own products we are not and we can offer a great deal. Why not pop in or call and you will be very surprised. Call Henshaws on: 01623 640646 Email: jsh@thinkhenshaws.co.uk Visit our website on www.thinkhenshaws.co.uk

Mansfield 2020 Patrons

â&#x20AC;Ś.. Continued from page 17

Mansfield 2020 Business Awards presentation Ball The Community Award sponsored by The Brunts Academy was won by The Kirkby Trust. The Trust operates in an area of high unemployment and social deprivation and provides supported accommodation to homeless young people between the ages of 16 and 25 and currently supports 35 young people in hostel accommodation and 25 in tenancies arranged through the Trust. Commended were Mansfield Learning Partnership and The Mansfield Building Society The Most Promising New Business sponsored by Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies Ltd was awarded to Bambino Beads Limited a Company established in April 2011 to fill a gap in the market for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jewellery, which is both good quality and affordable. One of the unique selling features of the jewellery is the magnetic clasp fasteners, making them easy for children to fasten and unfasten. Commended were A Star Media & Trampoline Central.

improve the self confidence, self esteem and employability of people affected by long term unemployment, offering support and work based learning opportunities. With a focus on recycling business waste, the organisation collects a selected range of recyclables, and splits them into constituent parts for recycling. Commended were Ransomwood Estates & The Mansfield Rotary Club Customer Focus Initiative sponsored by Fidler and Pepper Solicitors was awarded to Midlands Insurance Services a family business, based in Forest Town. Midlands Insurance Services has just celebrated its 18th year of providing insurance advice and cover to the businesses and consumers of Mansfield and beyond. Commended were Mansfield Garage Doors. Mansfield 2020 Outstanding Contribution to Mansfield was awarded to Kath Jephson of B Jephson (Mansfield) Limited for her contribution and dedication to raising the profile and support of the town and in the community.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit sponsored by Purpose Media was presented to Helen Keightley (right) of Bambino Beads Limited. Commended were A Star Media & Trampoline Central Business Commitment to the Environment sponsored by Ron Brooks (Mansfield) Ltd was won by Untapped Resource CIC. Operating over the past three years, the aim of this Community Interest Company has been to

Photo left: Kirkby Trust Photo right: Midland Insurance Services

Exportation-Move Out of Your Comfort Zone! Sherwood Resources Ltd is a specialist business, engaged in assisting United Kingdom & European businesses in developing successful partnerships into the wider Middle East and North Africa offering:       

MENA market entry Project direction & delivery Partnership & sales development Provide a forward path to client’s future Place extraordinary value on servicing clients Hold accountable to the highest standards of integrity Technical, information technology & engineering support Managing Language, Culture & International Business best practice

To get engaged with Sherwood Resources, simply call Sa'ad A.W. Al-Kattan on 07802 177 176 or email; saad@sherwoodresources.com

www.sherwoodresources.com Based at Mansfield i-centre. Mansfield Come and hear Sa'ad at the Mansfield 2020 Export Seminar 26th April (see pg 20)

DNCC Reports Local Economy Bounces Back In Q1    

Firms report significant uplift in UK sales and orders Service sector exports up to highest level since March 2008 More employment growth expected Number of firms operating at full capacity rockets

Firms reported better than expected UK sales and orders in the first quarter of the year as the local economy bounced back, according to the results of the region's biggest business survey*. The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Chamber of Commerce’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey shows that there was a significant uplift in the pace of growth in the local economy, following a marked slowdown in the second half of 2011. UK sales were up significantly across the board and there was also an increase in domestic orders. In particular, the Autumn Statement announcements regarding new infrastructure investment schemes gave a boost to construction firms who reported positive balances for sales and orders of 8% and 4% reflectively, reflecting a 25% and 24% improvement on the previous quarter. Export sales and orders also improved, with service sector exports hitting their highest level since March 2008. Manufacturing exports still showed marginal growth, but these stood at their lowest levels since late 2009. In terms of recruitment, businesses are increasing their capacity to create jobs, with expectations for job growth more positive than the last quarter. The Chamber’s analysis of those increasing and decreasing the size of their workforces shows a net increase in local jobs of 411, with growing businesses planning to increase their workforces by an average of 5.37, higher than the 5.04 average of firms expecting to shed staff. Taking all of the business confidence and performance indicators as whole, the current State of the Economy** in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire has returned to levels last seen Q1 2011. Looking ahead, firms are reporting significantly increased confidence in both turnover and profitability and future employment.

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To Book your place use event bright at http://www.eventbrite.com/myevent?eid=3288244227 or contact organiser Diane Carter on: 07916 245 367 or email; diane@marathon-media.co.uk

GOLD SPONSOR Are you looking for the answer to some of the following questions?

Agenda for the Extravaganza It’s Women’s Business Extravaganza The Towers Corporate Suite, Botany Ave, Mansfield 10am Start of the event FREE LADIES GOODY BAG FOR THE 1ST 30 MEMBERS OR GUESTS TO ATTEND* 10.15 – 10.35am Welcome to our Silver Specialists 10.35 – 10.50am Sue Leadbeater from Andrew & Co Solicitors will be talking about how business and personal relationships intertwine. 11.00 – 11.50am Alison Hollingworth and Tina Bettison will be sharing the stage with: Love Oprah? Then you'll love this!

Explore the Present, Design the Future

1.15 – 2.00pm Amanda Mills of “Unique You” image and style consultancy. Followed by Vanessa Edwards from Vandaehworks looking at feng shui for business success

Vanessa Edwards.

2.30 – 3.00pm Lots of time to network and get business advice.

Love Oprah? Then you'll love this! Alison Hollingsworth and Tina Bettison in conversation...with each other and with you, in an Oprah-style exploration of getting out of your comfort zone to tell your story.

Sue Leadbeater will be talking about how personal relationships intertwine with business ones and the importance of obtaining legal advice at an early stage in all kinds of scenarios for those who want to provide protection against problems in the future and certainty as to eventual outcome. From starting out in a relationship, buying a house, entering into a business partnership with your spouse or partner or coming out of a relationship, unless careful thought is given as to who owns what and getting it in writing it can be stressful emotionally as well as financially costly trying to unravel and implement what each intended. Come and listen. There is no need to leave anything to fate!

Amanda Mills of “Unique You” image and style consultancy will be offering a demonstration showing “how to find the image that suits you”

12noon till 1pm Delicious Buffet Lunch with glass of bubbly & fun, informal business networking.

Steps Forward

GOLD SPONSOR

Use this time to catch up with your visit to all the stands on display

"Feng Shui for Business Success":

Feel free to ask any questions of the IWB specialist team

Vanessa will outline basic Feng Shui

Stay till 3 pm to leave with your Guest Party bag!* See you again at the next one! *not for stand holders

principles to introduce into your business, specifically ideas about logo design and tag lines to naturally help magnify the effects of successfully promoting your business. Visit www.vandaehworks.co.uk

Profile Plus

Name: Clem Turner Position: Clinical Therapist Business: Clem is a qualified Clinical Therapist and a senior member of the General Hypnotherapy and an Accredited Member of the National Council for Hypnotherapy. He is also an EFT, NLP, EMDR and Hypno CBT practitioner. Clem specializes in helping people who have stress, anxiety and panic attacks, and the practice offer a comprehensive anxiety & stress management treatment plan. In his spare time Clem enjoys reading, photography, cycling and walking with his wife Margaret.

Name: Matt Wheatcroft Position: Managing Director Business: Purpose Media Introduction: Purpose Media are a successful

Profile Plus

Name: Bev Cook Position: Partner Business: BGB Advisory Introduction: Bev is a chartered marketer with over 20 years' experience advising businesses and professional services firms how to get the best return on their marketing budget. She acts as a self employed marketing manager for many Mansfield based businesses and can help with marketing strategy, communications, copy writing, PR, event management, website project management and social media projects. Bev also runs her own marketing consultancy called Simple Marketing Consultancy.

web developer and on-line marketing specialist. We focus on the design and build of brochure style content managed websites as well as e-commerce solutions that integrate back office accounting and stock control systems. Based in Mansfield, we have an enthusiastic and dedicated team that love what they do. In addition to bespoke website design, Purpose Media also provide online marketing and Sage integration services.

Name: Sangeeta Mistry Position: Company Director Business: Dentcare1 Smile Introduction: Sangeeta has over 20 years experience in the dental service industry having registered as a dental nurse with the GDC. She is in charge of Human Resources and Marketing, which include dealing with training and recruitment of professional staff and dentists. Sangeeta brings a wealth of experience in training required for the business in the customer service area ensuring that the front line is trained to be able to provide a service that the customer will want to keep coming back for. She is in charge of recruitment of key staff such as dental surgeons within the group.

Profile Plus

Name: Joanne Godson Position: Independent People Management Consultant & Retained HR specialist with Fidler & Pepper solicitors Business: People Management Consultant Introduction: Joanne has over 20 years experience in HR management. As an independent HR specialist, Joanne works with businesses across the area, supporting them in addressing any people management issues they have so they can improve the performance of their business. Joanne's hobbies include Theatre, Cinema & Concerts and she likes to keep fit so she can keep up with her 3 children! She also likes to get out and about in the local area; find out more in Jo's regular feature on her trips out in the area - Jo's Jollies.

Name: Chris Adkin Position: Senior Partner Business: Adkin Sinclair LLP Introduction: Chris qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1990 becoming a founder member of Chartered Accountants â&#x20AC;&#x153;Adkin Sinclairâ&#x20AC;? in 2007. Chris fulfils a key role as Trusted Advisor to many family owned and managed businesses, steering his clients through the maze of corporate, business and taxation issues to free them up to focus on success. Chris is a long time supporter of many charitable and community organisations; whether serving as Trustee, in a fund raising role or as Auditor; he is always keen to add value through his involvement. Interests include motor sport, gliding and travel.

Profile Plus

Would you like to have your profile on this page? Please offer your details as per the profiles on this page. Also send a high resolution (150dpi) head and shoulders photo. We will do our best to place your business profile on this page. Send to diane@marathon-media.co.uk

Name: Helena Lord Position: Chamber Services Advisor Business: DNCC Introduction: DNCC currently supports a growing membership of more than 3,400 businesses and 8,000 affiliates, it is the third largest chamber of commerce in the country. My role within DNCC is to engage with companies and actively encourage them to become chamber members and ensure that they get a good return for their investment in membership. I have previously spent many years in Sales and Marketing within the Hotel industry. Spare time is spent with my friends & family including 2 grandchildren; home and garden; singing with Mansfield Choral Society and a devotion to Mansfield Town Football Club.

Local apprentice qualifies and gains full time job Mansfield apprentice Jamie Bourn, has completed a year long apprenticeship and has been awarded an EDI Level 3 Diploma in IT User Skills, along with an E-Skills UK Advanced Level Apprenticeship for IT Users. Jamie, who is now 17, has been working for Mansfield based web developer and on-line marketing specialist Purpose Media since January 2011. His appointment followed a pro-active approach from Jamie himself to make Purpose Media aware of another local company called Positive Outcomes who specialise in placing young and enthusiastic apprentices with local businesses and helping them gain recognised qualifications. A series of interviews were held and Jamie was selected. Purpose Media Managing Director, Matt Wheatcroft said, “Throughout his time at Purpose Media Jamie has continued to broaden his skill set and has now become a productive member of our team. We were delighted to be able to reward his hard work and commitment with a permanent contract.” Purpose Media was established in 2009 and is committed to employing local people and helping to develop the local economy. The company employs eight people in total, and is moving to larger offices in April. This will provide them with over 1,400sq ft of office and meeting room space and allow them to recruit more people to develop e-commerce websites for businesses wanting to integrate back office accounting and stock control systems, as well as meeting the growing demand for online marketing and SEO solutions. C/0 Bev Cook BGB Advisory

Real Training Help in developing your workforce, raising aspirations and benefiting from Training that fits your exact needs, from a Quality Training Provider on your doorstep & We don’t charge the earth; in fact, many of our programmes are eligible for funding So don’t delay, give us a call 0845 490 0236 or e-mail: enquiries@focus-mfb.co.uk

High Level Vocational Programmes in Management and Leadership  Team Leading  Business Administration  Health and Safety  Business improvements

 Customer Service  ITQ  Waste Management

Plus a wide range of ‘One Day’ courses to choose from Check out our website: www.focus-mfb.co.uk

Focus Management for Business Ransom Wood Business Park, Mansfield, NG21 0HJ

Diary Dates May 2012 Tuesday 8th May - No Nonsense Networking Breakfast Business Group Venue: White Post Restaurant, Ollerton Road, Farnsfield. Time: 7.30 am - 9 am - See advert pg 18 Thursday 10th May - Mansfield 2020 After Hours Venue: Armstrong Hall Business Centre Time: 5.30 - 7 pm See advert page 20 & 21 Thursday 31st May - Mansfield 2020 Business Breakfast Meeting Venue: Mansfield Civic Centre. Time: 7.30- 9am. To book any M2020 event call: 01623 422010 or email: admin@amansfield2020.com See Page 20 & 21

FOCUS MANAGEMENT Training Dates Thursday 10th May - Assertiveness & Increased Confidence Monday & Tuesday 14th & 15th May - Train the Trainer Thursday 24th May - Effective Leadership & Planning Skills To Book the Focus Management Workshops and to view many others visit: www. Focus-mfb.co.uk Contact 0845 4900236

It's Women's Business Events Thursday 17th May - IWB Business Exhibition Extravaganza - See Page 24 & 25 for more details Thursday 24th May - IWB Ladies at Lunch. Venue: Cross Keys Restaurant, Byard Lane, Nottingham Time: 12 - 1.30 pm. To join IWB, for more information or to book an event contact; Club Founder & Chair; diane@marathon-media.co.uk or call: 07916 245 367 www.itswomensbusiness.wordpress.com

DNCC BUSINESS LUNCHES 11th May

DNCC Business Lunch Nottingham with guest speaker Roger Harrison, Chairman, Tramlink Nottingham Venue: Harts Restaurant & Hotel, Nottingham Time: 12.00noon - 2.00pm Cost: £22+VAT members, £44+VAT non-members

16th May

DNCC Business Lunch - Chesterfield with guest speaker Bill Beckett, Chief Internal Auditor, Derbyshire Dales District Council Venue: Stancliffe Hall, Matlock Time: 12.00noon - 2.00pm Cost: £22+VAT members, £44+VAT for non-members

To book any DNCC event please visit www.dncc.co.uk/events

Promote your networking event, workshop, business open day in our Diary Dates. Email; diane@marathon-media.co.uk Small charge may apply to non advertisers

Spring Fashion Article by Natalie Stendall Welcome to ‘The High Life’ Ladies section. This is the spot where we will be offering you a little insight into Diane, the Editors' weekend leisure. Also we want to offer a regular book review so you may wish to lighten our reading load by sharing your recent favourite novel. We trust you enjoyed our previous wine tasting article by Sassy Suzy. Well this month Posh Poppy offers her view on a Tesco Pinot Grigio... Plus we now have two fashion articles for your care of our new lady Natalie Stendall. Natalie offers a sharp insight into the season's hot trends for bags and see page 30 for a great article on 'Fashion's New Silhouette - The Peplum Waist'. We look forward to receiving more from Natalie in the future. So put your feet up on the sofa and take a few minutes to relax with your favourite cuppa or glass?

Enjoy Diane Image: Salvatore Vuono

riting this, it is now the Easter weekend and I am sure many of you readers hit the local coastline with your caravan or took a flight abroad to gain some delicious sunshine. Well we had a taster of the high temperatures last weekend, then we had some snow and then just as the hose pipe ban was due to come into action down south, we had lots of rain and in-between some severe winds keeping me awake almost the whole of one night. Let’s face it where else could you enjoy almost four seasons in 1 week? As for me, I’m choosing to stay in the serenity of my home as I hate busy holiday roads. Good Friday was a strange day and spending a little time browsing around Mansfield I bumped into a few work colleagues, offices closed, but not quite sure what to do with the break. Good Friday it seemed was the now the same as any other Friday and local restaurants, bars and retail outlets were all apparently working to the same weekday hours instead of the traditional Sunday opening enjoying the extra business. I’m actually very excited this weekend as I have taken on 2 adventures; one being putting up for sale my first article on eBay – some Firetrap jeans for my son and also purchasing a ‘Group On’ digital photography course for £29.99. People constantly talk about the wonders of eBay but I have shied away not being quite happy with the couple of purchases made. I do recall receiving one vintage dress which turned out to be a very smelly granny dress!. However, my Son had a brand new pair of Firetrap jeans via a gift worth £100 plus, so we aim to

Hot Handbags: This Season’s Latest Trends Girls, there are new bags in town. First up is the Grab Bag. A twist on the classic clutch, the Grab Bag is a little larger with a sleek strap for you to put your arm through and hold it under the base. Seen on the Valentino and Chloe catwalks, Grab Bags will be popular on your high street this season. Next on the must have list is the Duffle - a compact back-pack with a drawstring opening. Small and super functional, in a variety of fabrics from leather to linen, a Duffle achieves a casual, sporty look and works well with the many sport-luxe garments also making a comeback this season. The Duffle is a perfect alternative to the holdall for carrying your beach towel this summer. And let’s not forget the Micro-Bag. Seen on the Rochas and Moschino catwalks, to name a few, Micro-Bags are a beautiful, tactile addition to any outfit. If you can squeeze everything you need into their tiny size, Micro-Bags are the ultimate accessory this season. Of course, the traditional clutch and the ladylike bag (with top handles on a rigid frame) are also still in vogue. Update your favourites in the latest candy shades for a fresh spring look, or opt for one of this seasons key fabrics: exotic skins, weaving, floral or paisley patterns. get about £50 – is that too high an expectation – let’s see. As for ‘ Group On’ – I am an avid avoider – again only having one experience of a pathetic pamper day. Also I believe many businesses may have lost a lot of customers and money through this marketing tool. But further down the line I think businesses are seeing the benefits if used wisely so I am still in the ‘decision of good or bad’. But for the benefits of The High Life magazine I decided to proceed with the photography offer. The half day course for beginners or intermediaries for the use of DSLR cameras sounded a great deal, but as a beginner I didn’t even know what 'DSLR' meant. Thanks to my Sunday walking club, snap happy, friend Kate I got a clear understanding and again with her advice bought a second hand Canon 300 with Lens, memory card, strap and battery from the London Exchange for only £149. Fantastic service as it arrived the next day, excellent condition, well boxed and with all instructions – will I read them? Dam a week later I am wrong all instruction for software, lens, memory, card and all else were there but none for the actual dam camera - still waiting. Took me twenty minutes to work out how to charge the battery - well I didn't know you had to remove the lid! Roll on my camera course and I feel sorry for the instructor.

See Ya Di

Fashion’s New Silhouette: The Peplum Waist Spring Fashion Article by Natalie Stendall The peplum waist is back. And with Tina Fey and Michelle Williams both sporting the look on the Oscars’ red carpet earlier this year, the trend is likely to be a big one. A peplum is a gathered piece of fabric attached to the waist of a piece of clothing - jacket, skirt, blouse, or dress that ruffles over the hips. Couture designers, such as Dior, made the peplum-look popular in the 1940s, working it into tailored jackets that were pinched in at the waist, drawing attention to the feminine shape. Peplums are often seen as tricky to pull off, with many women reluctant to add extra volume to the waist. But the peplum look is all about curves. A cinched waist REGULAR FEATURE; The High Life Ladies Guide to Finding Fine Wine This month we look at ‘Posh Girl’ Poppy’s review on her choice of Pinot Grigio.

oppy is blonde, beautiful and soooo sexy. Poppy giggles her way through life always putting her left hand up to her mouth to prevent a loud ‘laugh out loud’. Poppy is really quite shy and prone to blushing but any redness on her cheeks is soon out dazzled by the sparkle of the diamond on the third finger of her left hand courtesy of her ‘Daddy’. Has to be the left hand because always in the right with her little ‘posh girl’ finger raised is a large glass of best bubbly champagne. So when we asked Poppy to do the wine review she seemed a bit perturbed. “Can’t I have a lovely glass of my favourite; SaintChamant Millésimé Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne, - no Poppy! What about my favourite cocktail; Dry Manhattan, whilst boasting about her last visit to New York to visit of course Macy’s! Sorry Poppy, but no this is a wine review and we have on offer for you a great Pinot Grigio courtesy of the local Tescos at £4.99. Sadly Poppy declined to choose her own leaving us to do the deed. “Ok so let’s look at the bottle” said Poppy, “A bit dull –all it says is Pinot Grigio around the label and Pinot Grigio around the lid so it certainly wouldn’t catch my eye - also in a white bottle with a white label he he he he. Up goes that little left hand again and I hate that

with simple, fitted peplums actually accentuates hour-glass figures, while flared peplums make the hips seem larger, creating feminine curves on even the skinniest girls. If you’re still unsure, when trying on remember that it’s important to think about how you’re going to wear your peplum. If you’re shorter in height, peplum blouses or jackets work best with trousers, while longer legs suit peplum dresses and skirts. Knee length is most flattering as this doesn’t interrupt the body’s natural lines but, if you’re really tall, you should be able to pull off shorter skirts and dresses. There really are some beautiful peplum garments out there, so pop along to the shops and enjoy trying some out.

diamond – oooh please let me have one before I die. Ok so the description on the label at the back states “Pinot Grigio Umbria, indicazione geografica tipica” translated as “denotes wine from a specific region this one obviously being of Umbria, a region of modern central Italy”. The label goes on “Our Pinot Grigio shows aromas of melon and citrus fruit. Well balanced with crisp lemon flavours and a refreshing hint of orange blossom”. He he he he it sounds so cute and fruity stated Poppy. Almost like a cocktail? Maybe we can put some tonic water or sparking water in and make it bubble like champagne; she giggled putting up her hand. Ooh that diamond! It goes on. “Ideal with grilled fish, spicy food, chicken and salads or on its own with friends and family”. What! I eat them, instead of a bit of salmon from the freezer?” He he he giggles Poppy. My patience is running out…..I need to drink some Pinot now so I hope she leaves some. Poppy’s view at last…”Ok with friends if out for a ladies night, but I found it a little ‘brittle’ on my tongue and prefer something a little smoother or of course bubbly. From my knowledge of wine, pinot, (the grape), is tricky for even a talented winemaker to handle and its wines can be thin tart dilute and dull – a little like this one. If you want to taste good Pinot you have to spend some money on it. Some cheap Chileans are ok but the best from France, California, New Zealand and Oregano will shock your credit card but wow your taste buds and impress your friends”. Sorry if I am negative but I would prefer a bottle of Cava – at least you know you are getting the cheaper version!”

Book Review: Double Cross The True Story of the D-Day Spies by Ben Macintyre (Publisher: Bloomsbury) D-Day, 6 June 1944, the turning point of the Second World War, was a victory of arms. But it was also a triumph for a different kind of operation: one of deceit, aimed at convincing the Nazis that Calais and Norway, not Normandy, were the targets of the 150,000-strong invasion force. The deception involved every branch of Allied wartime intelligence - the Bletchley Park code-breakers, MI5, MI6, SOE, Scientific Intelligence, the FBI and the French Resistance. But at its heart was the 'Double Cross System', a team of double agents controlled by the secret Twenty Committee, so named because twenty in Roman numerals forms a double cross. The key D-Day spies were just five in number, and one of the oddest military units ever assembled: a bisexual Peruvian playgirl, a tiny Polish fighter pilot, a Serbian seducer, a wildly imaginative Spaniard with a diploma in chicken farming, and a hysterical Frenchwoman whose obsessive love for her pet dog very nearly wrecked the entire deception. Their enterprise was saved from catastrophe by a shadowy sixth spy whose heroic sacrifice is here revealed for the first time. Under the direction of an eccentric but brilliant intelligence officer in tartan trousers, working from a smoky lair in St James's, these spies would weave a web of deception so intricate that it ensnared Hitler's army and helped to carry thousands of troops across the Channel in safety. These double agents were, variously, brave, treacherous, fickle, greedy and inspired. They were not conventional warriors, but their masterpiece of deceit saved countless lives. Their codenames were Bronx, Brutus, Treasure, Tricycle and Garbo. DoubleCross is their story.

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Money Talk Hi and welcome to our latest Money Talk, delivered to you by our team of experts from Assured Money Solutions

Credit Card Balance Transfers To switch or not to switch….. Transferring existing credit card or store card debts to a new 'balance transfer' card can save you £100s or £1,000s. A balance transfer's when one credit card repays debts on other credit or store cards; so you now owe it the money instead, hopefully at a special cheap rate. Most top balance transfer deals are for new cardholders, and require the debt to be shifted within a couple of months of opening the card account for a fee of around 3%. Yet there are a few existing customer balance transfer deals which are very useful for more efficiently using credit you already have. It's important you don't confuse cutting the interest with paying less each month, as that's determined by the minimum repayments. What’s also important to consider is how you intend to use the card in the future. I.E. Do you intend to continue using the card or will you cut the card up. The process is usually simple and quick to do and offers real savings My advice; The internet is a fabulous tool for research – happy hunting!

Regular Feature What’s On

Palace Theatre update for May Equus: Tuesday 1st The Good Old Days of Music Hall and Variety: Wednesday 2nd Syncopation School of Performing Arts - At The Movies: Friday 4th & 5th Mansfield Music and Drama Festival - Concert: Sunday 6th The Best Michael Jackson Tribute in the World: Wednesday 9th Spotlight Studios - In The Spotlight 2012: Friday 11 and Saturday 12th The Chuckle Brothers in the Return of Pirates of The River Rother 2: Sunday 13th There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly: Tuesday 15th The Tempest: Wednesday 16th Percival The Performing Pig: Thursday 17th & Friday 18th Garfunkel and Simon!: Thursday 17th The Drifters: Friday 18th Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama - MADD Junior Showcase - 45th Anniversary: Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th Guilty Pleasures: Monday 21st & Tuesday 22nd Ken Dodd: Thursday 24th Herman's Hermits in Concert: Friday 25th Sarah Adamson School of Dance: Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th An Intimate Evening with Joe Longthorne: Wednesday 30th Dancing Queen: Thursday 31st

Standard Table Rates £2.80 per hour

T & C May Apply The Venue, Kirklington Rd, Rainworth. Tel: 01623 797975

New Film Release: Men In Black 3 (3D) Release date 25th May Starring: Will Smith, Josh Brolin, Tommy Lee Jones, Emma Thompson, Nicole Scherzinger, Bill Hader, Alice Eve In Men in Black™ 3, Agents J (Will Smith) and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back…. In time. J has seen lots of unexplained things in his 15 years as a “Men in Black” agent, but nothing winds him up more than aliens from another world, than his wry, sour partner K. When K’s life is put in danger and the fate of the Earth put at risk, Agent J has to travel back in time to try and put the world to right. During his travels he finds things that even K didn’t tell him about and such secrets of the universe reveal themselves to him as he is joined by young Agent K (Josh Brolin) in the bid to save his partner along with the MIB agency and of course planet Earth.

T h e H ig h Life

Diary Dates Never Miss A Local Event Again

Olympic Celebrations

Enjoy lots of local events throughout Mansfield and Ahsfield. This is a major celebration for 2012. What a fabulous honour for Britain to host the Olympics. If you know of any events in your area please offer details to The High Life; Sub Editor; Andy Jones ( contact information at bottom of page). Wednesday 27th June

Olympic Celebrations at Berry Hill Park-More information to follow

Thursday 28th June Olympic torch relay visits Mansfield & Ashfield. The Olympic Flame will be passing through Mansfield and Ashfield as part of its historic tour of the country as part of the run up to the London 2012 Olympic Games. People of Mansfield and Ashfield communities are invited to welcome the Olympic Flame and share in the excitement the relay celebrations and the achievements of the Torchbearers who each have special stories of achievement in order to be chosen for this special honour. See Page for details of Torch Bearers. Inspiring Mansfield events are taking place at local schools to celebrate the Olympics and see more details on page 8

Diamond Jubilee Events Join in the celebrations throughout Mansfield and Ashfield in Summer 2012. Many local celebratory events are planned and we aim to bring as many as possible to you. Not on our list? Please send to the Editor - details below! Saturday 2nd June

Sutton Town Centre Group are holding a Jubilee event on Saturday June 2nd 2012. If you have a special talent (such as singing, dancing, fire eating!) and would like to share it with others at this event, then please email the Sutton Centre Community College Adult Education Manager on: Linda.Hill@suttoncentre.notts.sch.uk or call in to the Adult Education Office to have a chat with her. Any performer will receive a £10 voucher.

Saturday 2nd June

Summer Spectacular on Sutton Lawn, Sutton in Ashfield . This Queen's Diamond Jubilee event is organised by the Ashfield Fair Share Trust.

Mon-Tue 4th/5th June

Jubilee Food Festival with design your own cookies and winner of jubilee bag design A Mansfield BID event held in the Mansfield Market Square. See page 12 for more details

Tue 15th May

Rufford’s Right Royal Extravaganza takes place at Rufford Craft Centre

Sun 10th June.

There is also a preview: Sunday 13 May, 2pm – 4pm. To celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Rufford Gallery turns regal with right royal exhibits and majestic fun themed activities!

Sunday 8th July

Warsop Carnival Time;12noon to 7pm Venue: Carrs Show Ground. Church Lane, Church Warsop. The event includes a parade and a variety of arena acts, displays and side stalls and an open air music

Thursday 14th June

BBC Antiques Road Show comes to Newstead Abbey - watch this space for more information

Sat 7th - Sun15th July

Mansfield Arts Festival- see details page 34

Sat 7th Jul-Wed 29th Sep Mansfield Museum’s Summer Exhibition - The Annual Summer Exhibition will be a celebration of sport. For Corporate Diary Dates please see page 28.

Please send your diary dates* to the Sub-editor at marathon.media@ntlworld.com (fee may apply)

Celebrate Mansfield in July Plans have been unveiled for an exciting new event set to take place across the Mansfield District which will celebrate the best of Mansfield through a range of performances, music and art. Inspired by the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, the Mansfield Arts Festival will take place between 7 and 15 July. The festival will see Mansfield District Council, including its Palace Theatre and Museum, Mansfield Library and the Old Library, Vision West Notts, schools and community groups, come together to create an exciting programme of activities and events for everyone across the District to get involved in. A number of events have already been confirmed for the festival including:  Project 2012: Mamesfelde to Mansfield, from the Palace Theatre  The opening of Mansfield Museum’s Summer Exhibition  Vision West Notts’ I Heart Mansfield Film Festival screening  Post 16 Fringe Festival at the Old Library, Leeming Street, Mansfield  The annual Warsop Carnival

We'd also like to encourage people to enter into the spirit of the week by holding events with their friends and neighbours. It could be a small musical performance at home or sharing stories of years gone by; the idea is just to have fun! "

The Palace Theatre is contributing to the overall festival with Project 2012: Mamesfelde to Mansfield, which is part funded by an Arts Council / National Lottery grant and local business and community sponsorship. Playwright Kevin Fegan said: "The views and stories shared from people about living and working in Events are also being planned at Mansfield Library. Mansfield District have made interesting sessions and There’s also the opportunity for people to get involved have aided me in my quest to capture the personality during the week by either holding their own of Mansfield, its town and people." performance or exhibition, or getting involved in one of the events currently being organised. If you would It is hoped the Mansfield Arts Festival will become a new annual tradition for the District Council. A full like to stage your own event during the week please programme of the Mansfield Arts Festival activities is register at available online at www.mansfield.gov.uk www.mansfield.gov.uk/artsfestival. Performances and exhibitions can take place in a venue local to you, or the Council may be able to help you find a suitable indoor or outdoor venue. All registered events will be promoted as part of the festival. Cllr Kate Allsop, Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration at Mansfield District Council, said: "The Mansfield Arts Festival aims to capture and showcase the variety of artistic talent across the District. This is an exciting new event for the District and we are keen to have as many people involved in the week's activities as possible. So if you are involved in a local drama group, sing in a choir, perform in a dance troupe or have an artistic talent and would like to showcase your work then please get in touch.

Mansfield Arts Festival Launch in Mansfield

Car Review: The Suzuki Swift Sport by Sir Christopher Stirling

from as low as 10 mph it allows you to negotiating speed bumps without having to change down, and it will carry you right up to the current legal limit of 70 mph too.

The clutch is very light to operate and in fact all of the cars controls only require a very light touch. The power steering is finger tip light yet retains sufficient feel to provide good feedback of the road being driven, and the main controls for lights; wipers etc. are all very intuitive and well laid out; as are the instruments.

irst impressions count. Apparently we can form our opinion of someone within the first 30 seconds of meeting them; I’m pleased to say that I took a little longer to get to know the new Suzuki Swift Sport.

Once I had found my ideal driving position, something which can be easily done with the fully adjustable steering column working in sympathy with the seating, I was all set to sports seats On the school run or nipping down to the local shops this explore the potential of the latest incarnation of hold you firmly car is sure to please; being nimble and fun to drive, with Suzuki’s sweet hot hatchback. in their grip versatility and functionality built in. Rearward visibility is a little restricted which can hinder parking or reversing The sports seats hold you firmly in their grip and around a corner, but the compact size of the car makes both of work well with the suspension to preserve you from the jolts and these tasks easy to manage. bumps that Britain’s poorly maintained roads throw up at us evermore frequently: in this car you tend to hear the bumps rather Does it live up to its name? Well, yes I would say that it does. than feel them. The snug lateral grip provided by the front seats With 0-62 mph taking 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 121 mph, also made enthusiastic driving on our local ‘B’ roads fun once the Swift is certainly never going to be the fastest car on the road, more, and with excellent brakes the car certainly rewarded quick but the improved torque and power from the engine does make it point to point driving. a quick car in which you can make rapid progress when given the The gear change is neat and tidy, and now has the advantage of a long legged 6th gear as a new addition to this model. Add to this the cruise control which also comes as standard, and

The main controls are all very intuitive & well laid out motorway driving, fuel economy and noise levels all benefit. I would add that third gear is extremely versatile; pulling smoothly

right road conditions and the opportunity to drive it as intended. Engine power and torque have both increased, while fuel consumption from the 1.6 litre unit is also improved over the old car, returning up to 44.1 mpg on a combined cycle. With a 5 star NCAP safety rating and plenty of equipment as standard on this car, all for the asking price of £13499 including metallic paint, it is well worth taking a little extra time to get to know the Suzuki Swift Sport

Who is working for you? This is the section where we want to inform you of the numerous organisations that are working to benefit the Mansfield and Ashfield area.

NEWS FLASH RE Sutton Town Centre ‘Mary Portas’ Bid In the April edition of The High Life we offered an exciting report about the Sutton in Ashfield proposal to be a pilot town centre as a result of the recommendations recently made to the government by retail guru; Mary Portas regarding the plight of the UK’s town centres. The proposal led by Andrew Wraight, in his capacity as manager of the Idlewells Shopping Centre and Chair of Sutton Town Centre Group, along with Liz Barrett of Sutton Centre Community College has been put forward and now they are waiting results later in May. Up to £100,000 of government cash is on offer for 12 towns to pilot the scheme, which was set up after Ms Portas led a review on revitalising town centres. Her suggestions include setting up small teams of residents, shopkeepers and landlords to run the high street. Towns in the scheme will be given advice and support from Ms Portas.

Useful Contacts Mansfield District Council 01623 463463 Ashfield District Council 01623 450 000 Nottinghamshire County Council 01159 823823 Nottinghamshire Police 01623 420 999 Non emergency number 101 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Community First Responders 01623 796 295 Nottinghamshire County NHS 01159 691 300 Mansfield Citizens Advice 01623 651 177 Job Centre Plus 01159 793 638 Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service 01159 670 880 Severn Trent Water 0800 783 4444

Useful Websites www.mansfieldtowncentre.co.uk www.masp.info www.mansfield2020.com http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/SuttonTown-Centre-Group/114801795199925 http://www.facebook.com/#!/Idlewells

The latest update from Andrew with regard to ‘The Portas Bid’ is that the government have responded to the original recommendations set out by Mary Portas earlier in the year. Andrew stated “Liz Barrett and I are attending a meeting in Westminster at the end of June to get a more detailed understanding of the way forward”. “We will find out in May whether our bid for Sutton-inAshfield has been successful, and the government have confirmed that those towns not selected on this occasion will be entered automatically for a second wave of pilots, to be announced at the end of June”. I was recently invited to a meeting of the Sutton Town Centre Group consisting of business owners/managers, police, councillors, community groups and local residents. I was really inspired and encouraged to listen to all the wonderful things they have planned. They are such a positive group and I really hope that they achieve their goal with the Mary Portas Bid – they deserve it. This is what our local area needs; groups of pro-active, optimistic people who are determined to support and build their local economy I wish you at the Sutton Group all the best and look forward to coming along to the next meeting. The best bit of the meeting was the discussion related to their aim to beat a Guiness book of records for the biggest ever Pom Pom - good luck. Any local companies who have any wool or cardboard to spare please contact Andrew Wraight or Chloe O’Donnell on 01623 557736 to make a donation as this will be used as part of a local profile building and fund raising event. Article by Diane Carter Editor The High Life.

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A ‘DAY’ MAKES! Darren replaces Marc within 24 hours Accomplished West End leading man and popular television personality Darren Day has been cast as hunky heart-throb Gordon in the world premiere tour of Guilty Pleasures, Theatre Productions UK are pleased to announce. Darren took over the role last Thursday, following the dramatic departure of ex-EastEnder Marc Bannerman, who quit the role the day before. Darren has already begun rehearsing and has slotted in well with the rest of the cast. The 43-year-old actor has starred in numerous West End and touring musicals, including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Copacabana; Summer Holiday; Grease; The Rocky Horror Show and Hello, Dolly! He has also demonstrated great versatility in performing a variety of roles in stage plays, including Great Expectations; Alfie and Misery, and in television programmes such as The Bill and Hollyoaks. “I’m really excited about joining this tour,” says Darren. “Everyone’s lovely and they have all made me feel so welcome – even though I felt a little like a child joining a new school half

Regular Feature: Living the Family High Life — Introducing Jo’s Jollies Feeding the ducks and so much more at Vicar Water Country Park Well, our Easter holidays started well, we had an inset day on the Friday 30 March so managed to catch a day of the warm March weather before usual service resumed! After a bit of a lazy pj morning we headed off to Vicar Water Country Park in Clipstone; it’s an easy walk or bike ride from our house but if you need to drive to get there the parking facilities are excellent and it is free. The route we take to get there is on a cycle path all the way so accessible for pushchairs and push along trikes too plus the dogs can run off their leads almost all the way. As we pass the fields we notice the sheep with their new born lambs which prompts a rendition of baa baa black sheep. If Mr Billings is around, he is normally quite happy to have a quick chat about the most recent additions to his flock. We arrive at the first pond and can see some miniature boats being sailed, gentleman come from as far as the peak district to sail their boats on the pond. They love the environment but what really attracts them on a Friday is Fish and Chips, on offer at Rumbles, the cafe which is open Tuesday – Sunday (and Bank Holiday Mondays) serving home cooked foods, cakes and refreshments. With such beautiful weather you can easily spend the best part of a day there, if you wish, you can take a longer walk around the bigger pond where you will usually see some fisherman, and if you are really up for the challenge why not climb over ‘the tops’ (as we call it), following one of the paths, this was the old pit tip in years gone by.

way through the term, at first.” He also revealed that he is looking forward to trying his hand at a genre of theatre that is completely new to him. “Although I have done quite a lot of comedy, I have never performed in a farce before. It’s going to be great fun.” Producer and director Stephen Leatherland says: “Darren has proven to be a fantastic addition to the team. His maturity and intensity lend a natural gravitas to the piece.” Darren Day joins a stellar cast which also includes fellow former Joseph, Craig Chalmers, and both performers will be casting off the coat of many colours to reveal much more than the clean-cut biblical brother ever dared! Other cast members include David Van Day, a fellow jungle campmate from I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out of Here!, Terri Dwyer (Hollyoaks; Loose Women) and Pauline Fleming (Coronation Street; Brookside).

Eleanor loves to feed the ducks and at this time of year if you look in the streams you will see frogspawn too, she also loves the play area which is well equipped with slides, climbing frames, swings and roundabouts and when William and Lewis want a rest from their bikes there is plenty of space for a game of football or cricket. This is Mr and Mrs Tickle as Eleanor likes to call them, Mallard Ducks the Park Ranger informed me; you will often find them here amongst the other ducks, and some seagulls in the winter, so we always have to look out for them and make sure they get their share of the bread! Eleanor also likes the rocking horse on the park, here she is on a previous sunny day though not quite as warm as our most recent visit. Come back sunshine!

Jo Godson is an Independent Human Resources Specialist and busy mum of three who lives and works in the Mansfield/Ashfield Area. Follow Jo’s Jolly Trips around the area each month

Regular Feature Please send us your short stories and poems about the local area. Send via email to Editor or call the number at the bottom of the page for postal details. Please note if you wish for them to be returned send a SAE. They must not be previously published material. Thank you. CAN YOU GUESS? See the riddle to the right, kindly sent in by Christine Michael of the Blidworth Poetry Club written by a member. Can you guess the item. See bottom of page the for answer.

Riddle to Solve When Men Want to Fight When men want to fight They often take something black and white Not a sword or a sharp blade But a tool of hard card simply made Once firmly placed I look so grand Kings and queens on me stand Gathered to see the splendorous sights Especially with the appearance of the knights? Adrenalin flows each man of the challenge aware Ready for a fight the men at each other glare The battle can take hours sometimes all night It is a mental war being played in this fight The last visitors arrive – let the battle commence The pawns are here –now does it makes sense?

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION Can you take a good photo? Would you like recognition with a Prestigious Image or if appropriate you may even make the front page? AMATEUR OR PROFESSIONAL Full Accreditation for your work Format — digital colour image in high resolution Subject: Capture a “Flavour of Mansfield and Ashfield Area” This can be buildings, Parks, Scenes, People in the community, Landmarks or Famous places Please send entries to: Diane carter, editor: diane@marathon-marketing.co.uk

Email address for short stories and poems: Email: diane@marathon-media.co.uk or if you wish to post, contact Diane on 01623 795623 Riddle answer is “chessboard”

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