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April 2016

Win music ticket prizes

TO mark the NewsJournal’s second birthday, we have two great music competitions this month.

Tickets to a tribute night that launches Newark Festival can be won on page 2.

Tickets to tribute show Back To Bacharach at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield — a celebration of songwriter a Burt Bacharach — can be won on page 15.

MARC Tracy receives the keys to his new car from Four Seasons Shopping Centre manager Rebekah O’Neill and Simon Keeley, of Rainworth Skoda.

Winner in top gear A SHIREBROOK bus driver has swapped his double decker for a new car after winning a competition to mark the 40th birthday of the Four Seasons Shopping Centre in Mansfield.

Collecting the keys to the 2016 car of the year Skoda Citigo, Marc Tracy (40), said he was over the moon to win the prize draw.

“I was in shock when I got the call to say I had won,” said the father-ofthree. “I nearly didn’t answer the phone as I didn’t recognise the number — but I’m really glad I did.”

The competition to win the £9,300 Citigo — named best city car in the What Car? 2016 awards — attracted almost 2,000 entries. Following the draw, Marc picked up the car from local dealership Rainworth Skoda.

“The kids thought I was joking when I told them we had won,” said Marc, who drives with Stagecoach.

“It couldn’t have come at a better time as our current car has got 140,000 miles on the clock and is getting a bit tired.”

(Continued on page 2)

THE Big Bad Wolf Mrs Kate Marusiak (literacy leader) with Little Red Riding Hoods — back, Aleea Richards and Layla Scrivens, and, front, Ashlee Smith, Aimee SheppardMoore and Tyla Nicholls.

Nominate hero volunteers

NOMINATIONS are wanted for the annual Mansfield Volunteer Awards to reward heroes in the community.

The awards, supported by Mansfield District Council, Mansfield Community and Voluntary Service and Nottinghamshire County Council, has seven categories:  Young Person’s Award for under 25s.  Community Group Award for a group involved in community action.  Emily Dawes Memorial Award for a paid worker in the voluntary sector who has gone beyond the call of duty.  Andrew Wallace Memorial Award for an individual volunteering in the community.

(Continued on page 18)

An incredible day

ABBEY Hill Primary and Nursery School, Kirkby, celebrated World Book Day as children dressed as their favourite book characters — including Minions, fairytale princesses, Dirty Bertie, Little Red Riding Hood and Where’s Wally — and staff also joined in, dressing as Superman and The Big Bad Wolf among others.

Foundation Stage children and staff wore pyjamas to recreate a bedtime story scene — having a glass of milk and a biscuit before listening to stories.

Hundreds of books were exchanged at a book swap during playtime and youngsters quickly started reading their new titles.

Teaching assistant Mrs Trish Gregory made cakes for a cake sale.

Money raised will be used for new books.

The theme for the day was The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers. Each class read the story and took part in activities based on it.

Year 1 pupils created menus of books they could recommend for the story’s main character, Henry.

Year 3 children did paintings of their favourite books, while other classes wrote their own version of the story.

The book promotes the value of reading for knowledge and pleasure.

Abbey Hill ensured that at the end of the day every child took home a free book of their choice rather than World Book Day tokens. As there is no bookshop near the school, it did not want tokens to be unused.

14 courageous youngsters honoured INSPIRATIONAL youngsters who flourish in the face of adversity were honoured at Mansfield Rotary Club’s annual Courage Awards.

Now in its 25th year, the event was hosted at Portland College, Mansfield, in front of the 14 young people’s families and teachers — and previous recipients of the accolade.

The event was broadcast live on radio station Mansfield 103.2 as moving tributes were paid by tutors and teachers.

Each of the nominees — some of whom go out of their way to help others and some who are fighting illness — were presented with a certificate and a plaque after being nominated by their school or college.

Presenting the awards were Mansfield Rotary Club president Phil Richmond, Mansfield Mayor Kate Allsop, Mansfield District Council chairman Coun Martin Wright, and Russell Jones, a partner at Fidler and Pepper Solicitors and chairman of the Mansfield 2020 business network.

Guests included Rotary district governor Dr Roger Summers,

WINNERS, past winners and guests at the awards ceremony.

chief executive of Mansfield District Council Bev Smith and Miss Mansfield and Sherwood Forest Amy Beilby.

One sponsor said: “Another

triumph — it was a wonderful event and so many smiling faces.

“The fact that so many past entrants turned up goes to show what a wonderful celebration you have made of this over the years.”

Mr Richmond said: “It is a privilege for Mansfield Rotary Club to present these awards, which reflect our motto of Service Above Self.”

The Schools Advisory Service sponsored the overall event.

Tables were sponsored by: Tyler Bros (Sutton-in-Ashfield) Ltd, HW Martin Waste Ltd, JKP Tins, Handelsbanken, Atmospheric Interiors, AMS, Portland College, Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies, Asmech Systems Ltd, the Miss Mansfield organisation, Dunville & Co, Mansfield Building Society and The Rose Bower, which provided flowers for the nominees’ parents or carers.  SEE pages 10 and 11 for stories of the 14 winners.

Young winners

TWO dance solo acts were joint winners of Mansfield Rotary Club’s annual Junior Showtime competition.  SEE page 22 for report and photos.

Fair at hospice

THE John Eastwood Hospice, Sutton, is holding a spring fair on Saturday, 16th April, from 10am-12.30pm.

News Invitation to Quiet Day

MANSFIELD Quakers are hosting a Quiet Day focusing on “Strength in Weakness,” led by Quaker historian Gil Skidmore (pictured), at the Friends Meeting House, Rosemary Street, on Saturday, 11th June.

After a welcome at 10am, the event will feature an introduction to the writings of 18th Century Quaker women by Gil, from 10am.

It will be followed by a meeting for worship with afterthoughts, led by Gil, at noon.

Those attending are asked to take contributions for a shared lunch at 12.30pm.

There is a choice for visitors at 1.30pm — Questions Posed By These Writings, a discussion with Gil Skidmore; or Letting Our Hands Explore Our Weakness Using Metaphor and Clay with Vivien Whitaker; or quiet contemplation in the Garden Of Reflection.

The event will conclude with worship sharing and then tea at 3.30pm.

To book a place e-mail vivienwhitaker@ btinternet.com or ring 0114 2891367.

More information is at www.nottsand derbyquakers.org/local-meetings/mansfield

Paint recycling

UNWANTED paint can be recycled at the Crown Decorating Centre, Hermitage Lane, Mansfield, as part of community initiative Kick Out The Can, from 21st March to 18th April.

The paint will be re-processed by social enterprise company Nimtech and donated to community projects. Leftover plastic and metal paint containers can also be recycled.

Householders can return up to 10 containers of any decorative paint. Paint must be in its original container with the lid securely attached.

£10 sticker prize

DON’T forget, the NewsJournal has a promotion to spread the word about our ‘good news’ monthly newspaper.

Simply display one of our “I read good news in the NewsJournal” stickers in your car window and you could win a £10 monthly cash prize.

Take a photo of the sticker in your car and its registration number, and send the photo to Mansfield and Ashfield

NewsJournal, Car Sticker promotion, Mansfield Business Centre, Ashfield Avenue, Mansfield, NG18 2AE or e-mail

2

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Beeley Hawley Chartered Accountants

Businesswoman is a community champion MANSFIELD businesswoman Rachel Hall was crowned Community Champion of the Year at the East Midlands Chamber’s annual conference and Enterprising Women awards.

Rachel — an owner and director of Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies — received the award at Shearsby Bath, Lutterworth.

She has been instrumental in HallFast’s success, a business that Rachel set up from the spare bedroom of the family home with her husband,

New president

AT THE annual meeting of Mansfield Ladies’ Probus Club, Mrs Sue Kirk, left, was installed as president by the immediate past president, Mrs Karen Troop.

The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month for a meal and to listen to a speaker.

Its new programme will cover topics such as Time In MI6, Miss Mansfield Past And Present, and The Suffragettes.

Meetings are at the Oakham Suite, Mansfield, from 12.30pm, and new members are welcome. Call the secretary on 01623 486898 for details.

Malcolm, in August 2006. The firm now supplies a standard range of 200,000 items to more than 16,000 customers in 90 overseas markets.

Its success has enabled the company to give back to the community, through fundraising and sponsorship.

“I am immensely proud to win,” Rachel said. “I did not expect to as the standard of the other finalists was very high.

“I, along with everyone at Hall-Fast, am proud the continued success of our business enables us to give back to others.”

The awards, which honour the most successful and inspirational businesswomen in the region, were held to coincide with International Women’s Day. Bonita Nortis, the youngest person to reach both the summit of Mount Everest and the North Pole, gave a speech.  SEE back page for news on HallFast’s work with Nottingham Rugby Club.

For more information on Hall-Fast and their community activities visit www.hall-fast.com

Centre’s celebration Accolade for thriving firm

(From page one) Shoppers spending £25 at any of the store’s shops were able to enter the prize draw, one of several events held to mark the centre’s anniversary.

Rebekah O’Neill, centre manager at Four Seasons, (pictured below, centre, at the celebrations) said: “We had hundreds upon hundreds of entries and everyone at the centre is excited for Marc and his family to be driving away with the car.

“This is the first time we have given a car away to one of our shoppers. The prize draw has been a real hit and I’m thrilled it has been so popular.”

Rainworth Skoda sales manager Jeremy Taylor said the event had been well received.

“The number of entries was staggering,” he said. “We have all enjoyed the thrill of the event. It was great to present Marc with the keys to his fantastic new Skoda Citigo.”

Win night out at festival

TOP tribute bands are to play at this year’s Newark Festival — and you could be there to watch them free.

We have got a pair of tickets worth £30 for Riverside Rocks on Friday, June 17.

The music night at Riverside Park will launch the three-day festival and include tributes to the Arctic Monkeys, Bon Jovi, the Foo Fighters and The Killers

by Antarctic Monkeys, Bon Jovi Experience, Four Fighters and The Fillers.

Headline act Tony Hadley,

RACHEL HALL

of Spandau Ballet, will be supported by ABC, Bananarama and Midge Ure for the Saturday 80s Night the following evening.

There will be a free family day on the Sunday, including a Swing In The Park concert and fireworks finale.

To enter our competition to

win a pair of tickets to Riverside Rocks, tell us the name of the Friday tribute night event at Newark Festival and send your entry to Mansfield and Ashfield NewsJournal, Newark Festival Competition, Mansfield Business Centre, Ashfield Avenue, Mansfield, NG18 2AE or e-mail competitions@news-journal.co.uk before 28th April.

The event is organised by LHG Live and Newark Town Council.

Tickets are available at www. newarkfestival.co.uk

EDWINSTOWE construction firm Robert Woodhead has been named one of the fast-growing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

It has been placed in the London Stock Exchange’s top 1,000 list of the UK’s most dynamic and exciting SMEs. To be included, companies had to show growing revenue over the past four years to have outperformed their sector peers.

David Woodhead, managing director of Woodhead Group, said: “Being recognised as one of the UK’s most-inspiring companies is a real accolade. It’s key to us that as we grow we still remain committed to our values, which we have built our business on.

“We want to ensure our growth remains effective, profitable and sustainable, focusing on outcomes, operational excellence and creating a better experience for all.”  WOODHEAD Group, celebrating its 70th year, has been accredited with the Investors In People gold award, gaining 182 points, the highest score the assessor had seen.

Learn how to save lives

LADYBROOK Enterprises Ltd is hosting free emergency lifesaving skills training through Heartstart at Ladybrook Community Centre, Mansfield.

Sessions are held on selected Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the year. The training is delivered by trained volunteers and affiliated to the British Heart Foundation.

In the two-hour sessions participants will learn how to deal with heart attacks, choking and bleeding as well as performing CPR and the recovery position.

For more information, including dates of the courses and how to book, call 01623 624208, email ladybrookcommunitycentre@ btconnect.com or go to http://ladybrookcom munitycentre.co.uk/whatson/heartstart

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Mansfield Building Society

is Sleep-out helps Experiment out of this world homeless project MORE proceeds from a winter sleep-out

by Kirkby Rotary Club and Ashwood Church in the town have been presented to the Mansfield Winter Shelter Project.

Immediate past-president Roger Pursey gave the sponsorship donations to Hannah Buck, shelter co-ordinator, when she gave a talk to the club.

Fundraisers spent a night sleeping rough in the new Kirkby town centre plaza with only cardboard boxes, plastic sheets and sleeping bags to keep them warm.

Among the volunteer sleepers were Rotarian Pam Thompson and Carol Hallam, Ashfield District Council community wellbeing team leader, who were at the cheque presentation.

The shelter, based in Mansfield’s Baptist Church, Rosemary Street, gives support to the homeless during the winter.

Run by a paid co-ordinator and 30 volunteers, it has accommodation for 12 people and provides free meals, hot drinks and

ROGER Pursey, Hannah Buck, Pam Thompson and Carol Hallam. sleeping bags on three nights every weekend during winter.

The amount raised through the sleep-out has topped £3,000.

Hannah said: “There is no other shelter open in Mansfield over the weekend and this will help us to continue our work.”

Roger said: “It was rewarding to co-operate with Ashwood Church and Ashfield District Council on this project.”

Volunteering to help town A STUDENT who did work experience with Mansfield Business Improvement District (BID) enjoyed her time so much she is now a volunteer ambassador for the organisation.

Tamara Robinson (18), from Mansfield Woodhouse, wants a career as a psychologist or a prison officer.

She organised work experience with BID to understand more about how different organisations work together to fight crime and reduce anti-social behaviour.

She so enjoyed learning when out and about with BID ambassadors, who act as a liaison between different groups and businesses in the town centre, that she volunteered to join them.

Tamara said: “I am interested in why people do the things they do. I want to become either a psychologist or work in the Email news items to news@news-journal.co.uk

prison service as a wing officer. It is interesting to see if and how people can be rehabilitated.

“It has been fascinating seeing how different partners work together in Mansfield town centre to help keep it a safe place for people.

“The work that the BID does, often behind the scenes, is amazing.”

Tamara will be going away to further study uniformed public services later this year and will return to being a volunteer ambassador when she visits her home town.

Dave Wilson, business crime co-ordinator at BID, said it was looking to recruit volunteer ambassadors as a way of helping businesses.  ABOVE: Tamara is pictured with Elaine McGreade, who runs Hops In A Bottle, Market Street.

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MANSFIELD Museum is over the moon after being selected to take part in a rocket science project launched by the Royal Horticultural Society Campaign for School Gardening and the United Kingdom Space Agency.

In September 2015, 2kg of rocket seeds were flown to the International Space Station (ISS) on Soyuz 44S to spend several months in space, before being returned to Earth in March.

Mansfield Museum will receive a packet of 100 seeds from space, which they will grow alongside seeds that haven’t been to space and measure the differences over seven weeks.

The museum will not know which seeds were from space until all the results have been collected and analysed by professional biostatisticians.

The Mansfield District Council-run museum will be growing and exhibiting the seeds in its Leeming Street arcade, where visiting school children and other visitors will be able to get involved with the measuring and monitoring of the experiment.

Commended

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE’S Best Bar None, which recognises and rewards responsible licensed premises in the county, has been highly commended in the scheme’s national awards. It was shortlisted in two categories, best new scheme and most innovative scheme.

“The business behind the numbers”

Good care home

CLIPSTONE Hall and Lodge — a purposebuilt care home specialising in care for older people — has been given a good rating by the Care Quality Commission.

Clipstone Hall provides 24-hour residential care, while the Lodge provides specialist dementia care.

Accountants

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Triple success for firm

Thousands of thanks to teen

A TEENAGER has handed over more than £3,000 to a cancer charity after organising a 12-hour night-time walk in pouring rain.

Kirsty Gregson (15), got more than 50 people to join her fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support at Forest Town Arena.

Forest Town Chip Shop provided a free breakfast for the walkers.

To get involved with fundraising for the charity, call Nottinghamshire fundraising manager Stacey Smalley on 07809 554963 or email ssmalley@macmillan.org.uk

Building Societies

African schools adventure

MANSFIELD Woodhouse man Nick Collins has gone to Malawai for two years to help the country’s programme to build 53 schools.

Nick (31), who signed up with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), will source materials and supervise the construction of the schools in the African country.

Nick, a chartered engineer, said they would rely on solar power.

His placement has been paid for by VSO, but the charity has asked him to fundraise to cover the cost of the next recruit, who will need training and visas.  Go to www.justgiving.com/malawinick to help.

Building Services

A SUTTON opticians celebrated a triple award success with a tea party in the store and gift vouchers for team members.

Specsavers, Idlewells Shopping Centre, attained the Investor in People (IIP) gold award, finished first in the region for a mystery shop and secured Health and Safety platinum 3 status. It has held an IIP award since 2003.

Thanks to donations from customers, the store has also collected more than 20,000 pairs of spectacles for charity over the past

year. They have been donated to Vision Aid Overseas, a charity dedicated to transforming access to eye care in developing countries.

Store manager Nigel Davidson said: “Such a simple thing can transform the lives of some of the world’s poorest people, helping in everything from school to work. Customer donations are vital.”

The store also collects spectacles for the Ashanti development, Ghana, and sends cases to Romania through the Smiles Project.

Designs on help Planning a street for mercy missions party for Queen?

PEOPLE have been advised to contact Nottinghamshire County Council as soon as possible for support and advice if they are planning a street party to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.

June is likely to be the busiest time for parties when the monarch celebrates her official birthday with a three-day celebration, beginning on Friday, 10th June and extending over the weekend.

Go to www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk or call 01623 520739 for advice.

TV donation

CHESTERFIELD-BASED Ashgate Hospicecare has received £50 from The Mansfield Building Society’s Community Support Scheme to buy a TV for its day hospice.

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A MANSFIELD company is helping an organisation that provides humanitarian aid to put a smile on the faces of more vulnerable children living in the UK, Ireland and overseas.

Business gifts and promotional merchandise specialists Pellacraft, based on Hermitage Way, has designed and is hosting a new website for Comunication Workers Union Humanitarian Aid (CWUHA).

CWUHA was founded by trade union members, families and friends, who worked in Britain’s and Ireland’s postal, telecom and financial industries, to help vulnerable children in war-torn Bosnia in 1995.

The group has since delivered thousands of tonnes of aid to hundreds of orphanages, hospitals, schools and direct to vulnerable families across the world.

The new website enables volunteers to post stories of their aid convoy experiences, play videos of aid reaching the children, and share news about ongoing development.

Sam Pella, from Pellacraft, said: “We normally develop websites to help customers who have a large membership or employee base to communicate internally or with other members. When CWUHA explained their objectives we were delighted to help as one of our main aims is to promote workers’ rights.”  ASHFIELD MP Gloria De Piero visited

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SAM Pella works on the CWUHA website.

Pellacraft to congratulate the company on reaching its 35th anniversary. It was started

by Steve and Rosemary Pella from their Annesley home in 1981.  PELLACRAFT donated 100 Easter eggs to homelessness charity Framework. They were handed out to service users at the Sherwood Street Centre, Mansfield.

Pellacraft has raised more than £5,000 for the charity over the past two years.

Pellacraft director Nicola Pella said: “Although it’s a small gesture of chocolate, we know from donating eggs last year how much it’s appreciated.”

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Asmech Systems Ltd

Teens’ tribute to victims of terror attacks TEENAGERS drew inspiration from the public’s response to the aftermath of the Paris terror attacks for a major youth festival.

Unity, a group of young people working with Nottinghamshire County Council’s Youth Arts Team, staged three Showcase live performances — Unity Showcase and Dance And Drama at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield; and Music Showcase at the Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham.

Their first autumn group session to plan for the performances was on 14th November, the day after the tragic events unfolded in Paris where 127 people were killed.

As teenagers met for the first time at the Old Library, Mansfield, news of what had unfolded in France was the main topic of conversation.

Guitarist Beth Adams, 15, of Southwell Lane, Kirkby, said: “It was an extremely difficult session. People arrived for the workshop having seen the events on the TV and it was understandably the major thing on everyone’s mind because of the horror of what had happened.

“Our group was called Unity, and as the session progressed we made a collective decision that we wanted to focus our creative energies on unity and trying to make sense of this horrific incident Email news items to news@news-journal.co.uk

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Fundraisers to host fashion show TWO women who have been raising money for Fountaindale School and brave Mansfield youngster George Eden-Taylor are holding a fashion show on 20th April.

Money raised will go to the Mansfield school, which 10-year-old George attends.

The fundraisers — Margaret Howlett and Di Milner — are part of a group known as George’s Army, set up to help George and his family.

George was born 12 weeks prematurely and weighed just 2lbs 7ozs (1.1kg) at Nottingham City Hospital maternity unit.

He now suffers from athetoid cerebral palsy, which affects both his motor skills and co-ordination, but George has a normal IQ. The fashion show and pop-up shop, run by Colours, from Manchester, will take place at the special school at 7.30pm.

Admission is £5. Colours offers High Street-named retailers’ clothing with at least a 50% discount.

Deaf celebration through our music and performance.”

Funds were collected during each of the events for the charity Unicef to support the victims of the Paris atrocity and other incidents.

Coun Liz Plant, vice-chairman of the Children’s and Young People’s Committee, at the council, said: “The young people within Unity have worked tirelessly along with everyone involved in Showcase 2016 and the three events were tremendous, highlighting the huge creative talent we have across Nottinghamshire,” Unity Showcase team — Chenae Anita Bakut (18), of Broxtowe; Denisa Douse (21), of Nottingham; Rachael Dixon (18), of Mansfield; Beth Adams (15), of Ashfield; Oliver Siggee (16), of Mansfield; Katie Powdrill (19), of Netherfield; The Dukes (Abi Howard, Jade Gordon, Owen Shutt) all 18, of Worksop, collaborating with Angus McCleod, Mark Allsop, Sam Jones and rapper Bru-C. Dance and Drama — A range of groups including Wheelchair Dance from

Cauldwell House (Mansfield); Back Foot Forward (Tuxford); Rush Dance (Rushcliffe); Retford Oaks (Retford); Jungle Bunch (Bilsthorpe); Positive Moves (Gedling); Flying High Interm Youth Dance (Gedling); The Prototypes (Mansfield); Steppin’ Serlby Dance (Mansfield); Outwood Portland Academy; North Notts Youth Dance Company; Reach Learning Disability (Southwell); Valley Dance (Worksop); and MX4 Street Dance (Mansfield).

There was also a film by the Xzibit group, led by Jon Bevan from County Youth Arts, who took inspiration from sculptures at Rufford Abbey Country Park to produce a dance film there.

Music Showcase — The Able Orchestra of students from Fountaindale School working with Si Tew and Ronnie Sampson from County Youth Arts to develop their own music using iPads and technology; The Supergroup — musicians brought together to form a band following their auditions — who collaborating with Rob Green; The Earth Below County Youth Arts supergroup formed with Nina Smith and Matt Blick. Other performers included Abi Brown with Destiny and Jephthah, Rachael Dixon, Encaptured, Charlie Fearon and 15 Keys.

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Deaf Society (NDS) has launched a project to celebrate the cultural history of deaf people in the county.

Hearing Deaf Voices, which has been backed by £60,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, is the culmination of the society’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

It aims to engage a wide audience within the signing community to reveal the culture of Deaf British Sign Language users.

Plan for old pit

COUNCILLORS in Bassetlaw have backed plans to turn part of the old Welbeck Colliery site, off Budby Road, Cuckney, into an employment park.

105th birthday

FORMER Ravenshead woman Betty Shimeld has celebrated her 105th birthday at the Berry Hill Care Home, Mansfield.

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Solicitors home-in on leading figures

FIDLER & Pepper Solicitors, which has offices in Mansfield and Sutton, has become one of the top 30 UK law firms for the number of conveyancing matters it deals with.

In December, the award-winning firm, based in Nottinghamshire but with clients across the UK, had its highest number of registrations in a single month.

Figures from the Land Registry, which registers the ownership of land and property in England and Wales, show that Fidler & Pepper lodged 246 registrations, placing it at 27th out of 4,211 firms nationwide.

Mark Slade (pictured), the firm’s managing partner, said: “We have been so busy that we have been recruiting. We are continuing to grow our team so that we can maintain our excellent levels of service.”

Over the past two years the firm has focused on developing a technology upgrade, which means its conveyancing process has become fully integrated with the Land Registry.

Fidler & Pepper is one of only 12 law firms in the UK, and the only one of its size, that has fully integrated with the Land Registry to improve processes and the efficiency of services.

Training role

PLEASLEY Vale-based NAPIT Group, an organisation committed to promoting trade competence, has appointed Michael Collinge (pictured) head of training.

He said: “NAPIT already has a fantastic offering, with centres across the country and expert-led training in everything from electrical inspection and testing to solar PV and even locksmithing. But I know that we can improve.”

Scan here for more Mansfield and Ashfield news in April

Beans means a winning idea A FLEDGLING Warsop company is full of beans after winning major national deals for its unique product — an iBeani tablet bean bag stand.

The unique stands are designed to work with any tablet device or e-reader.

DeVancer Ltd, based at The Hub Business Centre, Sherwood Street, Warsop, which insists on making the iBeanis in the UK with British materials, was set up by local entrepreneurs Ashley Freer and Nigel Spencer.

They created the stands after becoming fed up of having to hold their tablets.

Ashley said: “It can be so awkward trying to hold with one hand and navigate or type with the other.

“Having looked at other tablet stands on the market nothing seemed to quite match our needs, and so the idea behind the iBeani tablet stand was born.

“We’re not interested in cheap, mass-produced products. We aim to offer our customers the best premium

THE iBeani are designed to work with any tablet device or e-reader. brand, quality stands that are handmade in the UK.” The individual stands feature the iBeani characterisation.

The National Gallery in London is stocking two iBeanis based on two of its most famous pieces — Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers and George Stubb’s Whistlejacket.

Educational equipment supplier TTS Group Ltd has also begun stocking the in-

novative tablet stands.

The new product was highly commended in the finals of the Giftware Association’s Gift of The Year 2016 awards.

DeVancer is also developing other innovative products for the home and education market.

The company also has ambitions to help other new companies bring their ideas to market.

Go to www.ibeani.co.uk for more information.

Working with digital big guns MANSFIELD company A-Star Media is taking part in the first Do It Digital 100 Days of Digital Campaign.

The not-for-profit campaign promotes the benefits of becoming more digitally engaged to small businesses, offering help, advice and tools both online and off.

Other digital experts featured in the 100 days include huge names like Facebook, Wix and LinkedIn.

The campaign highlights one opportunity each day for small business owners to become more digitally active and access online help and advice.

As part of its profiling day, A-Star Media created a series of jargonbusting films to help

people understand film terms and techniques.

Director Katrina Atherton, director of A-Star Media, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to promote how important video is in the world of digital, and to get businesses

thinking about creative film techniques.

“We have been making films for companies for eight years, so we know what works. We can help businesses understand what they need to get the best results.”

More information on Do It Digital is at the Small Business Saturday Facebook page — www.face book.com/doitdigita luk — on Twitter @ DoItDigitalUK and at www.doitdigital. co.uk

School Report

8

This page sponsored by:

The Evolve Trust

MAPPLEWELLS Primary and Nursery School, Sutton, has been awarded  a Greenwood Community Forest Team grant

to plant fruit trees in its grounds that pupils will be able to harvest and eat.

THE Dukeries Academy, Ollerton, is on its way to a good rating at its next Ofsted inspection, according to inspectors who carried out a follow-up visit after it was rated as requiring improvement in 2014. Inspectors praised the school for making progress in key areas.

PUPILS at Crescent Primary School, Mansfield, have graduated from the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) scheme, which teaches youngsters about the dangers of drug abuse.

 

WINNERS: Year 6 pupils Ellie and Molly.

Pupils promote safe parking outside school JUNIOR Road Safety Officers (JRSO) at Berry Hill Primary School have raised awareness of responsible parking outside their Mansfield school.

Parking has become an issue at peak times at the expanding school, where parents can park on the road or in King George V Recreation Ground car park.

The children were concerned that people were parking on yellow lines, which they said could be dangerous for the pupils, and blocking local residents’ driveways.

To reinforce the message that yellow lines were there to keep everyone safe. — and for parents to park responsibly — the JRSO team has promoted friendly-parking assemblies and a competition.

The assembly was based on why there are yellow lines outside schools and what would happen if all WINNER: Year One motorists ignored the rules. pupil Ewan.

The JRSO team also held a friendly-parking poster competition for the whole school.

Winners were Ewan (Year 1) and Ellie and Molly (Year 6). The winning posters will be displayed around the school.

The JRSO said it would continue to work with the whole school to keep promoting friendly parking.

BILSTHORPE Flying High Academy TAs Janet Perkin and Trish Butt get  creative with painting after an overwhelming

response to calls for volunteers to help spruce up their school.

Staff from the Nottingham office of Experian, painters from J. & R. Allen & Sons, members of the trust, and friends and families of the school all helped.

Head Lisa Turland said: “We are grateful to everyone who gave up their time to help.”

MORE than 1,000 new primary school places will have been created in the Mansfield area by September. Nottinghamshire County Council said the extra places were to meet demand.

PLANS have been put forward to add six classrooms in a new two-storey building at Sutton Road Primary School and Nursery, Mansfield.





Challenge adds up for academy youngsters THE Bramble Academy, Mansfield Woodhouse, has teamed up with local business mentors to run an innovative maths challenge across all year groups.

More than 200 children are working to understand maths in the context of an employer’s working environment and listen to stories about careers available in the workplace.

Business mentors from Pinders Opticians, the

Coal Authority, Calverton Finance, Avonside Roofing, Laing O’Rourke and Pinewood Lettings are supporting the children to develop business plans, carry out market research, and agree product and team roles.

The children will present their work at a Dragons Den-style event in July.

Mansfield 103.2 radio interviewed pupils in class six, their teacher and Emily Revill, of Calverton Finance

Emily said: “The children produced excellent work and showcased their employability skills and understanding of maths by working out how much they needed to borrow and what they would have to pay back.”

Head of school Celia Oates said: “Working with employers on the challenge will bring the subject alive for our children and they will see the relevance of their learning to the world of work.”

Bridging the employment gap A STUDENT networking event has been held for Brunts Academy teenagers to showcase their skills to 25 employers and professionals.

The inaugural Brunts Student Networking event — featured live on Mansfield 103.2’s breakfast show — was organised by the Mansfield school’s intern and student, Cally Lambert.

Berni Dickinson, director of marketing and enterprise at The Evolve Trust, which runs the academy, hosted the event, sponsored by Mansfield 2020.

“It is overwhelming to see how well the students adapted to a new situation and impressed the businesses involved,” she said.

Business people involved were: Irvin Robinson, Jo Plowright (Mansfield 2020); Russell Jones (Mansfield 2020 / Fidler and Pepper), Laura Hemmings (HS Presents); Pete Topley, Matt Freeman (Mansfield 103.2); Katie Trinder, Lucy Trinder (LuKas At Work); John Morley (Elite Contractor Accountancy), Elizabeth Orridge (Elizabeth Orridge Photography), Elaine Hopkins (Nottinghamshire Hospice), Pete Hopkins (Royal British Legion), Heidi Duffy (Nottinghamshire Police), Jane Box (IPDL), Richard Taylor (Pinewood Lettings), Michael Asher (NatWest), Marc Johnson (CCM Livepay), Sharon Carton (TIS), Steve Arscott (Young Enterprise), Helen Dennis (Mansfield District Council), Ella O-Connor (Ashfield District Council), Julie Bailey, Matt Ellis (Sutton Community Academy).

Samworth celebrates students

MORE than 60 prizes were given to students who showed either academic excellence, or contributed to academy or community life, at Samworth Church Academy’s annual awards evening.

Each subject department at the Mansfield academy nominated three students with one winner invited to the ceremony.

None of the students knew which subject they had been successful in.

Academy student of the year was Betty Harrison, from year 11.

Email news items to news@news-journal.co.uk

Dancers performed Flicker Beat and the choir sang Hold Back The River.

Principal Barry Found said: “The evening was all about our students, their achievements and their successes, their talents and them as confident learners and developing citizens.

“It’s been a great evening to celebrate all of these qualities with those who support them, the teachers, the staff, parents and carers.”  RIGHT: Betty Harrison, centre, with Emily Harrison and Lauren Greasley, who won Contributions To The Community Awards.

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College Round-up College provides ‘Helping Hands’

This page sponsored by:

Vision West Nottinghamshire College

Splendid theatre

PERFORMING arts students at Vision West Nottinghamshire College discovered new theatrical styles, thanks to a London-based theatre company.

They enjoyed a workshop delivered by Kerry Frampton, artistic director for Splendid Productions, which creates challenging and vibrant theatre for those training in the industry.

Kerry introduced the budding actors to performing in a political style akin to the works of 20th Century playwright and director Bertolt Brecht.

The day ended with a performance of Odyssey by a cast of three actors playing the 12 roles associated with the performance, using physical theatre, audience interaction, puppetry and song.

A DISPLAY was manned, posters displayed and social media posts used at Vision West Nottinghamshire College in support of the second National Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Awareness Day.

Domestic abuse officers from Ashfield and Mansfield district councils, and a community partnerships representative hosted the display, providing information on the issue and details on how to report it.

Students and staff wrote a personal pledge on their hands to show support for national charity NWG Network’s Helping Hands campaign, with photos of the pledges posted on social media with the #HelpingHands hashtag.

The college’s Students’ Union further supported the day by putting up posters across all college sites.

9

Engineering

Rudi’s medal win

STUDENTS (from left) Olivia Daniells, Sophie Breen and Milly Green pledge their support.

Child sexual exploitation is a form of abuse that involves the manipulation or coercion of young people under the age of 18 into sexual activity.

The national awareness day aimed to highlight the issue and encouraged everyone to adopt a zero tolerance to adults developing inappropriate relationships with children.

Nick Golubs, the college’s Students’ Union president, said: “It’s crucial we raise awareness about child sexual exploitation as it’s a growing issue in Britain today.

“We also need to encourage victims that there are people out there who are nonjudgemental and are there to help.”

A grand graduation

A REGIONAL skills competition designed to seek out the best engineering talent took place at the college.

It was part of a series run by the Association of Colleges to give students in a range of vocational areas the opportunity to progress to competing in regional — and eventually national — WorldSkills competitions.

The event saw students at the college’s state-of-the-art Engineering Innovation Centre in Sutton compete with learners from three neighbouring colleges in engineering, manufacturing and welding challenges.

And there were celebrations when West Notts student Rudi Stacey (above) came second in the welding category.

Rudi (18), who studies the Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations course, said: “I didn’t feel under too much pressure; I just concentrated on putting the skills I already have to good use and did my very best.”

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Sharing expertise GRADUATES from Vision Apprentices at the graduation ceremony.

MORE than 40 people trained

by Vision Apprentices — the college’s apprenticeship training agency (ATA) — celebrated their achievements at a glittering graduation ceremony.

They were among almost 140 apprentices to be honoured at the 2016 Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Graduation at the Albert Hall, Nottingham.

The 44 ATA graduates completed intermediate and advanced apprenticeships

in areas including business administration, construction, health and care, and retail and commercial enterprise.

Their ages ranged from 18 to 50 and they work for a host of employers across various sectors.

Now in its 12th year, the event gives apprentices, training providers and employers the chance to celebrate at the type of formal graduation usually associated with universities.

College apprentice Reece Hunt (22), from Mansfield, said: “It was brilliant. There was a celebratory atmosphere and it was great to receive my graduation certificate on stage in front of my family.”

Faye Boucher, head of employer engagement, said: “Apprenticeships are now seen as being just as valuable as a university education, so it’s really important to give those who choose this vocational route the same recognition.”

THE college has shared its educational expertise with academics from India.

A delegation of assistant professors from universities and colleges in the southern state of Kerala visited on a fact-finding mission to learn more about its approach to vocational and higher education, which they hope to replicate back home.

It formed part of a four-week visit to the UK, funded by the Government of Kerala and supported by the British Council, aimed at strengthening India’s education system by equipping leading practitioners with exposure to innovative practices.

Hadleigh is one of our outstanding apprentices at Academy Transformation Trust Further Education (ATTFE) and Communities. Hadleigh produces exceptional work and we are very proud that Hadleigh is a finalist for the Mansfield 2020 awards.

At the Academy we specialise in a range of non-vocational provision, alongside accredited learning from Entry Level to Level 5. In addition we offer a vast range of apprenticeship qualifications and encourage businesses to explore this area of staff development.

If you would like further information about any of the above please email: attfe@suttonacademy.attrust.org.uk

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Children of Courage

10

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Celebrating 14 very BRETT WILKIN

BRUNTS Academy student Brett is still smiling, despite having to overcome both physical and mental hurdles in recent years.

The 14-year-old has struggled with autism and obsessive compulsive disorder, and had his confidence further shaken by an accident where he broke part of his tooth.

He came through the surgery and has since been battling his heightened anxiety. All that aside, Brett still keeps a smile on his face and looks to the future.

He is hoping to take part in work experience at the academy, alongside the site team, helping care for others.

Brett was nominated by Sarah Bailey-Wiles, of the wellbeing team at the school, who said he was truly admirable.

“All of Brett’s teachers think he is wonderful. He has a unique personality and shows commitment to his education.

His love for ICT allows him to demonstrate his abilities and he also wants to help others,” Sarah said.

The Mansfield youngster spends his free time listening to his favourite songs, The Birdie Song and Miley Cyrus’ Wrecking Ball, gaming and building with Lego.

JAMES MORLEY

FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD James has become somewhat of a celebrity in his home town of Sutton for his courageous battle against leukaemia.

Diagnosed aged 11, the student of The Beech Academy has received intense chemotherapy since his optician spotted possible symptoms of the disease during a routine eye test.

James became a brave pioneer, being the first child in the country to undergo treatment with the drug that eventually led to him being in remission.

He joined the academy as he was recovering from his illness, but in that time he has been open and honest about his leukemia.

James speaks courageously about being in remission and the possibility of a relapse in his health.

He has shared his experience of being a fighter with both the school and a wider audience, and actively strives to raise the awareness of childhood cancers, says deputy headteacher Rob Butler, who nominated the teen.

In his spare time James enjoys video games, cooking, cricket and watching Doctor Who. He hopes to spend his future helping research cures and fundraising for research into cancer.

MEGAN CLARKE

MEGAN, a student at Garibaldi College, Forest Town, has suffered ill health, but has still managed to continue to achieve goals, according to Jayne Kirkland who nominated Megan for the award.

Jayne, attendance manager at the college, said Megan remained positive, despite her health worries.

Megan enjoys school and her favourite subjects are drama and film studies because she enjoys learning the different techniques used.

The 16-year-old, from Kings Clipstone, also has high aspirations for the future. She hopes to continue her education and become either a midwife or pursue a career in criminology.

In her spare time, the fan of band Years & Years enjoys riding her horse, Joey.

WILLIAM HOSKINS

AT the age of three, William was diagnosed with a tumour near his brain. He underwent intense chemotherapy, but battled through and is now a 14-yearold student at All Saints’ Catholic Academy, Mansfield.

He was nominated by a tutor at his school, who admired his determination and hard work. The Sutton teen most enjoys English at school. He said it filled his mind with new ideas.

Outside school William enjoys listening to the band Skillet, train modelling and making 3D pictures of World War Two battles. He hopes to become a software game developer when he is older.

LILLIE-MAY HOLEY

LILLIE-MAY has always been eager to be at school, despite a period of bad health following an operation.

The determined eight-year-old, a student at Fountaindale School, Mansfield, was nominated by her class teacher, Stuart Gardner.

“Lillie-May has kept coming back and really wanted to be at school, even with the obstacles of her health,” he said..

“She enjoys our social interaction communication time as she gets to say good morning to all her friends and they say it to her.

“She likes to give them high-fives and cuddles. It has helped to develop her confidence with her voice.”

Lillie-May, of Mansfield, also enjoys a beauty club, anything girly and Peppa Pig. She loves spending time with her friends and listening to Gangnam Style.

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GEORGIA JONES

GEORGIA has shown great courage and fortitude after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in her last term at Joseph Whitaker School, Rainworth.

The 17-year-old is so dedicated that she rang her teacher from her hospital bed to update her on the stages of her UCAS form.

Nominated by the school’s head of sixth form, Mrs Caney, Georgia has got on with things as usual without batting an eyelid.

Mrs Caney said: “Whilst it was dealt with in a relatively short time, the worry of friends and family was obviously enormous. Georgia tried to ensure that they were all OK.” The Rainworth teenager enjoys drama and musical theatre. Her favourite song is Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off. Georgia enjoys biology at school, particularly the practical dissections and learning about the intricate internal structures of the human body, and how they work together to co-ordinate whole body functions.

She hopes to become a paediatrician specialising in neo-natal care.

CLAIRE O’SHEA

A STUDENT at Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Mansfield, Claire suffers from aniridia — a rare condition that means the iris is missing or incomplete.

This results in Claire being sensitive to light in the day, and she reacts to headlights and street lights at night. She also has another eye condition, nystagmus, which affects her judgment of speed, distance and focus.

Despite these problems, Claire strives to get the most out of everyday life.

Her early years tutor, Lesley Henstock, who nominated Claire, said: “She is lively and enthusiastic about her education, and would like to support children with similar needs in the future.”

Claire (17), attends work placement at a day nursery in the same way as full-sighted students. She needs to familiarise herself with her surroundings, after which she is able to work with children in an able and confident manner.

Claire, of Worksop, hopes to become a qualified childcare worker to support children with additional needs.

Children of Courage

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11

Mansfield Building Society

courageous youngsters JACK BINCH

JACK Binch’s favourite song is David Bowie’s Heroes — and he is considered just that by his friends and family.

Jack, IT Apprentice Level 2, has supported the implementation of the Wiki rollout, attending schools, meetings, presentations and events.

He shares the benefits of using multi-media advocacy as a tool to support more children and young people with an additional need and/or disability, and their families, giving them a greater voice.

Through his efforts to make the Wiki project successful, Jack was awarded a certificate via a weblink to the national Wiki Conference in London.

He was praised for his hard work, commitment and dedication to promoting this new technology through the viewpoint of someone with a long-term health condition.

Jack, 18, from Sutton, was nominated by A Place To Call Our Own (APTCOO) chief executive Carol Burkitt.

“We’re incredibly proud of Jack and what he has achieved in such a short time,” she said. “His work with all the children, young people, their families and carers is extraordinary and he deserves this award. He is a true Wiki master, and the sky is the limit for this young man.”

His hobbies include watching films, reading, gaming and coin collecting.

Jack’s ambitions include moving into IT support and then into IT server support and server admin.

SHAWN HORNSBY

SHAWN shows courage in the face of communication barriers that can make his learning demanding at times.

But the 11-year-old has shown an exceptional commitment to learning, has made considerable progress and has still exceeded targets in art, design and technology, and English.

The Queen Elizabeth Academy, Mansfield, student was put forward by community manager Joy Riley.

“Since joining the academy in September, Shawn has continued to go from strength to strength,” she said.

“Shawn has excellent attendance and punctuality. He has an outstanding personality, showing a kind character, fully supporting his peers and staff, and always working hard.”

Outside of school, Shawn, from Mansfield, attends a non-league football team and is part of 10th Mansfield Scouts. He also enjoys gaming, listening to the radio, playing with Lego and watching television game shows such as Tipping Point and Catchphrase.

JOE COLLIER

AT just 12, Joe has already faced down the sort of heartbreaking tragedy that could floor people at any time in their life.

Just a few months into his transition to secondary school at the Manor Academy, Mansfield Woodhouse, Joe’s mum was killed in a road accident. The last two years have been tough for Joe and his dad, Craig.

Joe was nominated by academy principal Donna Trusler, who said: “Joe has shown resilience and courage. He is excelling at school in all his subjects. He is popular and well behaved, and a pleasure to have with us. We are all very proud of him.”

Joe plays football for Sherwood Colliery and is considering a career in the Royal Marines.

BETHANY PARKER

BETHANY is in her all-important GCSE year at Meden School, Warsop, and is on track for good grades across the board.

The 15-year-old was nominated for the courage she has shown since being placed in foster care, after a long period of acting as a carer to her mum and younger siblings.

Kim Hickinbotham, head of house at Meden, said: “Bethany continues striving to be a positive role model to her siblings. It hasn’t always been easy, but prior to, and since being placed in, long-term care she has strived for success and is thriving in every aspect of her school and personal life.

“She is an inspiration to other young people, and especially all looked-after children. She doesn’t let her past experiences limit her.”

Aiming high, Bethany said: “I want to go to university to study business or law, and have a really successful job. I want to have a family of my own, and be a good mum.”

LEWIS TAYLOR

LEWIS has a form of dwarfism and has had a major operation on his legs in the last 12 months. This resulted in a great deal of external metalwork on his leg, which caused great pain.

Throughout his recovery Lewis (16), has always been positive and keen to get back to school quickly.

He returned to school to student support provision and just got on with it. Nominator and head of house at Joseph Whitaker School, Rainworth, Mrs Godwin, said he never moaned and remained on target to achieve good GCSE grades in the summer.

Lewis, from Rainworth, enjoys media at school and likes to understand how films and TV series are made.

His hobbies include swimming and watching football.

He is an avid Manchester United fan.

Lewis hopes to live life to the fullest and get a role working within finance.

DECLAN BATTEN DECLAN is an exceptional student at Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Mansfield, despite being registered as severely sight-impaired. He has to undergo weekly hospital appointments due to a build-up of calcium on the cornea and regularly has his corneas scraped.

Despite this, Declan, of Alfreton, is committed to his studies. A-Level achievement coach Gemma Lane, who nominated the 18-year-old, said: “He never complains and is a pleasure to have within the group.”

Declan’s consultant ophthalmic surgeon describes him as coping magnificently and everyone who knows him agrees.

An accomplished pianist, he has made grade five standard in both practice and theory — an outstanding achievement considering Declan plays all of his music by memory, being unable to read music while playing.

With a flair for mathematics, he hopes to pursue a career in encryption after attending Nottingham Trent University or the University of Nottingham.

His hobbies include drawing, piano, photography and origami.

JAMES MOORE

PORTLAND College student James (18), has turned a corner since leaving secondary school.

Rebecca Machin, the Mansfield college’s transition and outcomes manager, said: “James has challenged himself to overcome feelings of low self-esteem, lack of confidence and paranoia.

“He has developed the courage to put himself in challenging situations and is now able to reap the benefits.”

Among his many achievements, James has taken on the role of official photographer at college events, interviewed professional artists, exhibited his own artwork to raise awareness of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and taken a leading role in a social enterprise, which seeks to educate groups of professionals in matters relating to the condition.

He is also making valuable contributions to the college council, has taken responsibility for his own support plan, and grown more independent outside of college.

Rebecca added: “All of that requires varying degrees of confidence. It would be wrong to say that James now finds it easy, but he does not back off from a situation. In fact, once he has got himself going there is no stopping him.”

Local Government

12

Helping owners of pets comply with new law

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Electrical l Plumbing l Ventilation l Heating l Microgeneration l Green Deal NAPIT are a membership scheme operator with over 10,000 registered trade installers across the UK. Approved by Government and accredited by UKAS, NAPIT are dedicated to regularly assessing installers to ensure their ongoing competence and that they meet strict qualification requirements.

MANSFIELD District Council is offering support to dog owners by offering a reduced microchipping service for £10 per dog as compulsory microchipping legislation takes effect on 6th April.

The new legislation means all dog keepers will be required to have their pets microchipped and registered on one of the authorised databases, such as Petlog, or face a fine of £500.

The law is aimed at reducing abandoned, mistreated and abused dogs, making people think twice before owning a pet as keepers become more traceable and accountable for their actions.

The microchipping service offered by the council is available to all Mansfield district residents. Go to www.mansfield.gov.uk for more information or call 01623 463189 to arrange a microchipping service.

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Beeley Hawley Chartered Accountants

Festive trees donation

AN annual campaign that encourages residents to recycle real Christmas trees has raised £1,150 for the Royal British Legion.

Nottinghamshire County Council, in conjunction with Veolia, its waste management contractor, urges people to take real festive trees to their local recycling centre in January.

They are shredded for composting or chipped for use in parks and gardens, rather than taken to landfill or left to rot at the bottom of gardens.

For every 50 tonnes of Christmas trees sent

for recycling throughout January, Veolia donated £100 to the Royal British Legion — the chosen charity of council chairman Coun Sybil Fielding.

 PICTURED are Matthew Spaul, Veolia’s general manager for the East Midlands, and Coun Sybil Fielding, with a cheque for £1,150.

The family event, including face-painting, craft workshops and other activities, will take place in Mansfield Market Place on 12th June, the day after the Queen’s official birthday celebration.

The knitting challenge is open to community groups, schools or individuals — anyone can get involved and there will be crochet and knitting workshops for those who have not knitted before.

The main idea is to dress the town centre for the street party by knitting squares

in red, white and blue, and in patterns such as Union Jacks, the Queen’s head or other royal iconography.

The project is being coordinated by local business woman Sara Brown, of Yankee Yarns, who will offer advice to beginners as well as collect squares and install the street art.

For more information about the Royal Knit visit www. mansfield.gov.uk/royalknit call Sara Brown on 07429 138131 or email yankeyarns@ gmail.com.

Get knitting Gardens contest for the Queen A NEW competition has been launched by Mansfield District Council to find the bestkept garden and best school garden.

The competition is open to all residents and schools. There will be cash prizes for the top three entries in the two categories.

Judging will take place from 18th July to 12th August. Winners will be invited to the Mansfield BID Garden Festival in September for the presentation of certificates and prizes.

To enter, fill in an entry form at the Civic Centre or at www.mansfield.gov.uk/bestkept garden before 1st July.

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MANSFIELD District Council is calling on knitters to take part in a royal knit to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday in June.

Mansfield Market Place will be decorated using street art phenomenon Yarn Bombing, which involves wrapping decorative knitted or crocheted material around trees, railings, fences and street furniture, for the town’s main celebration — The Queen’s Birthday Street Party.

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Local Government

Awards for local heroes A POLICE community support officer (PCSO) and a Mansfield District Council warden went beyond the call of duty to help an elderly woman who was twice the victim of burglary.

PCSO Amanda Parkes and warden Frank Redmond were among five heroes to receive a Mayor’s Commendation Award for their dedication at a full meeting of Mansfield District Council.

The other recipients of the award from mayor Kate Allsop were Carole Cantrell, who has been volunteering for the past 40 years in tenants’ and residents’ groups in Mansfield, and husband-and-wife team Eddie and Kath Ratcliffe, who have worked at Mansfield’s Palace Theatre for many years.

Just before Christmas PCSO Parkes and Mr Redmond called on an elderly resident, who they went on to befriend, after they noticed her home was starting to look unkempt.

They wondered if she was coping and discovered that she was struggling and had no family or friends available to turn to for support.

Following their initial visit, PCSO Parkes and Mr Redmond visited the woman regularly and struck up a friendship.

A few weeks later they found her in shock after £240 was stolen during a distraction burglary at her home.

Her house was then ransacked again and £1,000 taken.

The woman was left in panic, but PCSO Parkes and Mr Redmond were again there to help.

The woman is now in a residential home and being well cared for — and PCSO Parkes and Mr Redmond still visit her regularly.

Mayor Allsop said: “I cannot thank Amanda and Frank enough for the support they gave to this lady and the difference it made.”

The mayor also commended the work of Carole Cantrell who, despite suffering from medical problems, has volunteered with tenants’ and residents’ groups, assisted the council’s homeless department, helped NHS Health Watch by working as a disability form-filler and benefits adviser, and volunteered with the Oak Tree Conservation Group.

“Our communities need committed residents such as Carole who go above and beyond for others,” said Mayor Allsop.

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WINNERS: Carole Cantrell, front, with, from left, mayor Kate Allsop, Mansfield District Council neighbourhood warden Frank Redmond, PCSO Amanda Parkes, Kath Ratcliffe and Eddie Ratcliffe.

Her final awards went to long-serving council employees Eddie and Kath Ratcliffe for their work at the Palace Theatre and voluntary work with amateur theatre groups.

Mr Radclffe, who has worked in the council’s architecture department since 1979, has also put in many hours at the theatre as part of the stage crew.

Mrs Radcliffe started as a dancer in productions and went on to help behind the scenes, and then work front of house at the theatre.

Mayor Allsop said: “Not only have Eddie and Kath given up their own time, but I also know they have used holiday time away from work to volunteer.

“I want to thank them both for all their years of input into the theatre and the time they have given up to help make successful performances happen.”

The mayor’s awards are handed out at each full council meeting and are chosen from nominations. Councillors and members of the public can nominate a person to receive a commendation by emailing mayorkateall sop@mansfield.gov.uk giving reasons why the group or individual should be commended.

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Shortlisted for housing award

MANSFIELD District Council has been shortlisted for a prestigious housing award — and will find out this month if it has won.

The authority is in the last six in the outstanding local authority category at the Chartered Institute of Housing UK Housing Awards.

The category, open to any local authority, recognises the role of councils in shaping local housing markets — through regeneration or development, meeting local housing need and/or preventing homelessness.

In its application, the council cited its current house-building programme, which is partially completed. It consists of 171 new homes with 83 due in 2015/16, 34 in 2016/17 and 54 in 2017/18.

Most of the programme is to build housing for older people, which could enable council tenants to downsize and free-up under-occupied larger houses for families on the council waiting list.

The authority’s housing vision has also involved buying five long-term empty properties from the private sector to rent out and, in one case, sell in a shared ownership scheme.

Mayor Kate Allsop said: “Being shortlisted for this award is fantastic news in recognising the great work that Mansfield District Council is doing to meet the urgent need for more homes in this district.

“As a housing authority we have taken a brave, resourceful and innovative approach to providing more housing for all kinds of demographic groups in the area, including older people, residents with special needs and families.

“Our development schemes have meant that for the first time in more than 30 years we have been building new properties for the people of this district.”

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Service U-turn

OLLERTON Day Service (formerly Whitewater Centre) for the elderly, those with physical or learning disabilities, and people with a mental health need, has been reprieved by Nottinghamshire County Council after it had been earmarked for closure.

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14

Giving carers helping hand

A SERVICE that has been set up to offer help and support to local people caring for a loved one has benefitted 807 carers since its launch in August.

Nottinghamshire County Council and the six Clinical Commissioning Groups across the county commissioned the Carers Trust East Midlands to set up the Nottinghamshire Carers Hub, which is funded up to April 2018.

The service aims to offer carers a range of support, including information, advice and guidance, short-break accommodation, grants and free training.

Carers may be eligible for free memberships to a local health spa or gym to benefit their health and wellbeing through the hub, which is also supporting local carer groups to provide, guidance and peer support for carers.

In addition, the hub has recruited volunteers to carry out visits to carers’ homes to provide support, share their experiences and give practical help and advice.

Yvonne Robinson, from Sutton, cares for her 90-year-old mother-in-law, Delia Turner, who has mobility problems, is hard of hearing and has impaired vision. She carries out her personal care, cleaning, shopping and cooks most of her meals.

Yvonne has been offered a concession at a gym and training to assist her with caring.

Delia and Yvonne have also been offered a break at a holiday lodge in Suffolk and access to a befriending service for Delia.

Yvonne said: “I would encourage other carers to get in contact with the Carers Trust as there is help and support out there for them.”

Wildlife appeal

THE Mansfield and Ashfield Local Group Committee of the National Wildlife Trust is appealing for new committee members.

The committee usually meets four times a year. Call Shlomo Dowen on 01623 640134 or Peter Olko on 01623 759589.

Volunteers event

Beeley Hawley Chartered Accountants  MANSFIELD-BASED IT specialists Geostream Solutions Ltd has taken on six new staff members.

The expansion followed an increasing client base that prompted a need for expansion.

Luke Fleet is support team assistant; Carl Ellis and David Howe are level one support engineers; Richard Mason and Matthew Godwin level two and three support engineers respectively; and David Bellamy is service delivery team manager.

Matthew Caunt, director, said: “We have very high expectations of our staff and we are sure that the new recruits have just what it takes to uphold those standards.

“We aim to continue our recruitment drive and hope to bring at least a further two engineers on board.”  LEFT: From left to right, Luke Fleet, Matthew Godwin, David Howe, David Bellamy, Richard Mason and Carl Ellis.

 THE Dukeries Academy, Ollerton, has received £600 from The Mansfield Building Society’s Community Support Scheme.

The money will go towards the academy’s work with Camps International to provide learning and developing opportunities for young people.

Nico Burns, of the academy, said: “We thank The Mansfield for providing these funds, which will

allow us to purchase specific rucksacks to be used for our Peru expedition, and then by future groups who will go on similar expeditions.”

The Mansfield’s chief executive, Gev Lynott, said: “It’s great to see children fully committed to fundraising activities both inside and outside of school.”

Pictured, above, is Mr Gev Lynott with Nico Burns, and Jake and Sue from the academy.

THE voluntary sector in Mansfield is holding a networking meeting, called Food For Thought, at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme, on 4th May, from 8.45am-10.45am.

There will be breakfast sessions and presentations from guest speakers.

A spokesman said it was a good chance to update others with news and information.

The event is free, but booking is advised.

Email Kate Boughton, kboughton@mansfield cvs.org, for details.

Toy shop plans

PLANS have been submitted for Smyths Toys to open a store on Portland Retail Park, Mansfield, creating 30 jobs.

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 KIRKBY-BASED metal railings and gates manufacturer Alpha Rail has said farewell to one of its longest-serving employees, Robert (Bob) Harpham.

Bob joined in 1985 as a 34-year-old and has been a machine operator, saw operator and latterly a fork-lift driver.

He was rewarded for his long service with a shop-floor presentation by his work colleagues.

Bob is pictured, centre, with Mark Sipson, Dean Briggs, Steve Shirley and Phil Ball.

 ACADEMY Transformation Trust Further Education, based at Sutton Community Academy, supported Dawn, Dave and Evie Woodward in raising £501.87 through a Harry Potter party at the academy.

The money will be sent to Annabelle’s Challenge for Vascular EDS — www.annabelleschallenge.org — to support raising awareness and research into the rare condition.

 BERRY Hill Primary School, Mansfield, raised £365 towards buying playground equipment through a toy tombola and raffle.

The school council was challenged to raise money by extended services co-ordinator Corinna Brown.

Pupils donated toys for the tombola and businesses helped after being contacted by the school council.

TTS Ltd donated a robot that helps children understand computer programming, Beales donated a remote-control helicopter, and Jango’s indoor play centre gave free

entry passes. Tesco’s two Mansfield stores and Morrisons also donated items.

Maria McIntyre, teacher and school council leader, said: “The children are excited about the amount of money they have raised.

“We tried to organise something different that showed our children were making an effort to improve their own playground.

“The school council was pleased with the support from the local and school community. We cannot thank the local businesses enough for their support.”

What’s On

15

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WIN tickets to top tribute show

BACK To Bacharach at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield, on 13th May celebrates the timeless hits written by Burt Bacharach — and you could be there for free in this easy-to-enter competition.

The show is performed by three West End singers, accompanied by a live 10-piece band.

They recreate all the American composer’s hit songs, including Anyone Who Had A Heart, Always Something There To Remind Me, Close To You, I Say A Little Prayer For You, Magic

Moments and Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head.

He is known for his popular hit songs and compositions from the late 1950s through to the 1980s, many with lyrics written by Hal David.

A donation of £1 per ticket sold will be made to Breast Cancer Now. To enter the competition to win a pair of tickets to the show, answer our question: In which country was Burt Bacharach born and send your entry to Mansfield and Ashfield NewsJournal, Back To Bacharach Competition,

Mansfield Business Centre, Ashfield Avenue, Mansfield, NG18 2AE or e-mail compe titions@news-journal.co.uk before 29th April.

If you’re keen on comedy, look out for Dirty Dusting (Chrissy Rock, on 12th April), All Growed Up (Chris Ramsey, on 16th April) and Grumpy Old Women (Jenny Éclair on 24th May).

For children there is Tiddler (13th April), Peppa Pig (on 11th and 12th May) and Chris And Pui (2nd June) next season.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Pasha Kovalev will be on stage on 18th May and

Ballet Theatre UK present Pinocchio three days earlier.

London Classic Theatre are returning to Mansfield with Harold Pinter’s Birthday Party (7th June).

Mansfield Palace Community Theatre’s 1920s version of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, from 30th June to 2nd July, is its contribution to the 400th anniversary commemorations of the death of the Bard.

For history fans there is An Evening With David Starkey — Magna Carta, on 25th May, and the Queen’s official 90th birthday will be marked by Neil Sands and his West End cast on 22nd June.  For listings or to book tickets, go to www.mansfield. gov.uk/palacetheatre or call the box office on 01623 633133.

Panto back for Easter holidays IT’S panto time again, oh yes it is! Mansfield Palace Theatre, which has thanked the 31,000 people who attended its record-breaking production of Aladdin over Christmas, is staging another over Easter.

Beauty And The Beast, on 10th April, will star Anne Hegerty, from ITV quiz show The Chase, TV personality Keith Chegwin and children’s favourite Basil Brush.

Ticket sales are also going well for the theatre’s swashbuckling Christmas panto, Peter Pan, later this year.

Anyone paying for their tickets before 27th August will save money.

The upcoming spring season includes drama, comedy, dancing, music and something for children.

Promising a legendary show

FIVE legendary musicians, singers and songwriters will perform the music of the Moody Blues in Legend Of A Band, at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield, on 17th April.

Drummer Gordy Marshall and keyboard player Paul Bliss, who have been on the Moody Blues’ 2015 tour, will be joined by

10CC lead singer Mick Wilson, Westlife guitarist Tim Maple, and James Blunt bass player Malcolm Moore.

Show promoter Pete Tobit, of GRT Entertainments, said: “It is an intriguing insight into the Moody Blues, the kings of the concept album.”

Book is first of a trilogy TWO Sutton authors — Dave Hague and Dave Hook — have published the first book of a trilogy, Kata Bunkai, Combat Analysis Of Kata Vol 1.

Dave Hague said it dealt with the development of personal security and self-defence in a violent world.

“Kata has become a folk dance divorced from its original intent through stylised competition expression,” he said.

“The book attempts to redress the balance and explain Shotokan Kata Bunkai (technical applications) with their original street defence (Goshin) intent and execution.”

DAVE Hague, Dave Hague was a mem- above, and ber of the KUGB (Karate Dave Hook.

Union of Great Britain), where he trained with Sensei Enoeda.

He left and joined SKI to train under Sensei Asano for 18 years alongside many who are now karate legends, such as Kanazawa, Kato, Mura, Shirai, Kasi, Kobara and Sode.

Dave Hook’s karate career started with Goju Ryu, Australia, in 1970.

He moved to Nottingham in 1975 and was appointed general secretary of Sensei Vince Morris’ Kissaki Kai from 1993.

Dave Hague said: “The book is also aimed at all citizens interested in self-protection and personal defence.”

It talks about acupuncture points, street defence systems and effective self-protection.  Kata Bunkai, Combat Analysis of Kata Vol 1 is published by Austin Macauley.

For further information go to www.austin macauley.com

Events

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What’s On

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Your diary of events for April TO submit an event listing, go to www.newsjournal.co.uk/ book-an-ad/create-whats-on-listing.

Events in April include:

EVENTS Friday 1st Easter Egg Hunt, Rufford Abbey Country Park, 10.30am3.30pm, £1. Daily until 17th April.

A Boy And A Bear In A Boat exhibition, Mansfield Library, 9am-5.30pm, free. Until 24th April.

Saturday 2nd Mansfield & Ashfield Wildlife Watch Group for 8 to 13-yearolds. Meets first Saturday of the month at St Mark’s Church Hall, Nottingham Road, Mansfield, 10.30am-12.30pm. For information or to book first session, contact Sarah Spurry, Watch Leader, on 07885 169111 or email:sarah.spurry@ntlworld.com or Lynn Victor at NWT on 0115 958 8242 or email lvictor@nottswt.co.uk More is at www.wildlifewatch.org.uk/watchgroups/mansfieldashfield Community market (first Saturday of every month) Ladybrook Community Centre, Mansfield, 10am-2pm, free, free children’s activities provided by St Mary’s and St John’s churches. Stalls £5 (annual Christmas Fair) must be booked and paid for in advance, no stalls available on day. Email on ladybrookcommunitycentre@ btconnect.com or call 01623 624208.

Monday 4th MU Toddler Group, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 9.30am-11am, term time, £1.50 per family. Weekly.

Valuation event (Bamfords, of Derby, with TV’s James Lewis), Mansfield Museum, 11am to 1pm.

Children’s Drama Group, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 4pm-5pm, for over 8s, £1. Term-time. Weekly.

ArtBeat! Turn your favourite book character into a puppet, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, £1.

Become The Next Picasso, Mansfield Woodhouse Library, 10.30am-11.30am, £2. Artist-led workshop.

Become The Next Picasso, Mansfield Library, 2pm-3pm, £2.

Artist-led workshop.

Tuesday 5th Zumba Fitness, The Regency Dance Centre, Regency Ballroom, Market Place, Sutton, 7pm-8pm. Call 01623 552737. Every Tuesday.

Buzzy B Children’s Club, Four Seasons Shopping Centre, Mansfield, 11am-3pm, free family-themed friendship fun for three to 11-year-olds to make friendship bracelets using plastic beads and draw a picture of best friends, and mount it on to a card frame.

New Cross Community Choir, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 7pm-9pm, all welcome to join. Weekly.

Bobbin and Lace, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, ,9.30am-11.30am, call Hilary on 01623 515540. Weekly.

Recycled Keepsake Boxes, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, £1.

Easter egg hunt, Little Roots Children’s Community Allotment, off Longyards Allotment site, off Slant Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, 2pm-4pm.

Wednesday 6th Coffee Stop, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 10.30am11am, drop-in for cuppa and chat, weekly.

Tai Chi, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 11am-12.30pm.

Weekly.

Phoenix Choral, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, 7.15pm-9pm. Call Anne 01623 627636, weekly.

Lollipop Flowers, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, £1.

Thursday 7th Card craft, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, £4 per session, weekly.

Hungry Catterpillars, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, £1.

World Health Day activities, Mansfield Market Place, 11am-3pm, run by Mansfield BID. See page 17.

Friday 8th Fitsteps (7-8pm) and Ballroom and Latin American Dance

Email news items to news@newsjournal.co.uk

(8pm-10.30pm), The Regency Dance Centre, Regency Ballroom, Market Place, Sutton. Call 01623 552737. Every Friday.

R&B Dance, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, for 5s and over, 5.45pm-6.45pm, £1. Every Friday term-time.

Mingle, New Cross Community Church, Sutton, cuppa and chat £1, weekly.

Monster Boxes, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, £1.

Saturday 9th The Boy Who Bit Picasso, Mansfield Library, 11am-noon, £3.

Storytelling, music and make art.

Sunday 10th Wedding Fayre, West Notts College, Derby Road, 11am-3pm, free admission and fashion show.

Monday 11th Games And Puzzles Day, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, free.

The Boy Who Bit Picasso, Sutton Library, 11am-noon, £3.

Storytelling, music and make art.

Tuesday 12th National Wildlife Trust Mansfield and Ashfield Wildlife Group meeting, Main Hall, Bridge Street Methodist Church, Mansfield. £3 donation to cover costs and refreshments. Go to www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/on-your-doorstep/mansfield for information. AGM and talk by Paul Wilkinson, head of living landscapes at NWT Head Office, 7pm.

ArtBeat! Eggbox buses, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, free.

Buzzy B Children’s Club, Four Seasons Shopping Centre, Mansfield, 11am-3pm, free family-themed friendship fun for three to 11-year-olds to link with the centre’s Shop For Schools healthy-eating initiative. Make and decorate butterfly bag-clips to keep healthy snacks fresh.

Wednesday 13th ArtBeat! Butterfly Life, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, free.

Thursday 14th Punchhole pictures, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, free.

Become The Next Picasso, Kirkby Library, 10.30am-11.30am, £2. Artist-led workshop.

Shelter Building, Sherwood Forest Country Park, Edwinstowe, 11am-12.30pm, free.

Become The Next Picasso, Sutton Library, 2pm-3pm, £2. Artistled workshop.

Friday 15th ArtBeat! Friendship Day, Mansfield Museum, 10am-1pm, free.

Evening With Geoff Hurst, John Fretwell Sporting Complex, from £29, www.hspresents.com Saturday 16th Spring Fair, John Eastwood Hospice, Sutton, 10am-12.30pm.

Willow Weaving, Sherwood Forest Country Park, Edwinstowe, 10.30am-noon, £15.

Monday 18th Coffee Mates, Sutton Library, 10am-noon, free. For over-50s.

Thursday 21st The Poetry Group, Sutton Library, 10.30am-12.30pm, free.

Saturday 23rd Redstart Ramble, Sherwood Forest Country Park, Edwinstowe, 7am-9am, £5.

Historical Bazaar, Rufford Country Park, 11am-4.30pm, free. £5 parking.

Sunday 24th Wedding Fayre, Mansfield Town FC 1861 Suite/Kevin Bird Suite, 10am-3pm, free.

Historical Bazaar, Rufford Park, 11am-4.30pm, free. £5 parking.

Thursday 28th Lovely Lace, Mansfield Library, 8.30am-3pm.

Saturday 30th EM-CON, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, 10am, £15 (and Sunday 1st May).

THEATRE Saturday 2nd Jay Rayner: A Night Of Food And Agony, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £22.

Monday 4th Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Tuesday 5th Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

The Gruffalo’s Child, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2pm, £10/£12.

Wednesday 6th Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2pm, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

The Gruffalo’s Child, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 11am, £10/£12.

Thursday 7th Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Friday 8th Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

The Gruffalo’s Child, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 11am, 2pm, £10/£12.

Saturday 9th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Toast, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 3pm, 7.30pm, £13.50£29.50.

The Gruffalo’s Child, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 10am, noon, £10/£12.

Sunday 10th Beauty And The Beast: Easter Panto, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 3pm, 7pm, £14.35/£12.30.

The Gruffalo’s Child, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 11am, 2pm, £10/£12.

Monday 11th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Tuesday 12th Dirty Dusting, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £20.50.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Wednesday 13th Tiddler And Other Terrific Tales, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 2pm, £9.23/£7.18.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7pm, £11.50-£13.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2pm, 7.30pm, £13.50£29.50.

Thursday 14th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Friday 15th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £13.50-£29.50.

Saturday 16th Chris Ramsey: All Growed Up, Palace Theatre, Mansfield,

Tuesday 26th After school gardening club, Little Roots Children’s Community Allotment, off Longyards Allotment site, off Slant Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, every Tuesday (term time), 3.30pm-5pm. For ages 5-11 years. Please wear suitable clothing.

Booking essential. Contact Richard 07748 990509.

Like us at news-journal.co.uk/facebook

Follow us @ MansAsh News

8pm, £17.94.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 2.30pm, 7.45pm, £11.50£13.

Tom Thumb, Nottingham Playhouse, 11am, 1.30pm, £8/£7.

Bad Jews, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2.30pm, 7.30pm, £13.50£29.50.

Sunday 17th Legend Of A Band, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £20.50.

Rob Delaney, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.30pm, £21.

Monday 18th Ladies Of Bangkok, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £22.55/£21.01.

Tuesday 19th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Sleeping Beauty, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £20-

Contact details

andwhynot, Mansfield — 01623633330.

Brown Cow, Ratcliffe Gate, Mansfield — www.facebook. com/rawbrowncow / 01623 645854.

Clumber Park — www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park 01909 544917.

The Diamond, Sutton — www.thediamonduk.com / 01623 456617.

Hardwick Hall — www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick / 01246 850430.

Il Rosso, Nottingham Road, Mansfield — www.ilrosso. co.uk / 01623 623031.

Intake Club, Mansfield — www.theintake.co.uk / 01623 624437.

John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme — www.ws-t.co.uk / Mark Waterfield 847468.

Mansfield Create Theatre, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Derby Road — www.createtheatre.co.uk / 413363.

Mansfield Odeon Cinema, Mansfield Leisure Park — www.odeon.co.uk/mansfield / 08712244007.

Mansfield Library — www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk / 651337.

Mansfield Palace Theatre, Leeming Street — www.mans field.gov.uk/palacetheatre / 633133.

Mansfield Museum, Leeming Street — www.mansfield. gov.uk/museum / 463088.

Mansfield Town FC — www.sandypatesportsbar.co.uk / 482482.

New Cross Community Church — www.newcrosscom munitychurch.com / 515540 Newstead Abbey — www.newsteadabbey.org.uk / 455900.

Nottingham Theatre Royal / Royal Concert Hall — www.trch.co.uk / 0115 989 5555.

Nottingham Playhouse — www.nottinghamplayhouse. co.uk / 0115 9474361.

Nottingham Arena — www.capitalfmarena.com / 0843 3733000.

Nottingham Rock City — www.rockcity.co.uk / 0845 4134444 (box office) 0115 941843.

Portland College — www.portland.ac.uk / Rachel Hensleigh 499105.

Regency Dance Centre, Regency Ballroom, Market Place, Sutton — 01623 552737.

Rufford Abbey Park — www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk / 821338.

Sherwood Forest Country Park — www.nottinghamshire. gov.uk / 823202.

Southwell Workhouse — www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ theworkhouse / 01636 817260.

Sutton Rambling Club — www.suttonramblingclub.com / 648879.

The Talbot pub, Nottingham Road, Mansfield — 623357.

Warsop Ex-Servicemen’s Club — www.warsopexservice mens.co.uk/ 01623 842183.

281 Restaurant and Rooms — Nottingham Road, Mansfield www.281restaurantandrooms.co.uk / 01623 622308.  To submit an event listing, go to www.news-journal. co.uk/ book-an-ad/create-whats-on-listing

More at www.news-journal.co.uk

What’s On MUSIC Thursday 21st Heanor Musical Theatre Company - Rock Of Ages, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £12/£11.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 1.30pm, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 8pm, £13/£15.

Sleeping Beauty, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2pm, 7.30pm, £20£42.50.

Friday 22nd Heanor Musical Theatre Company - Rock Of Ages, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £12/£11.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 7pm, £13/£15.

Sleeping Beauty, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £20-£42.50.

Saturday 23rd Heanor Musical Theatre Company - Rock Of Ages, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 2.30pm, 7.30pm, £12/£11.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 2.30pm, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 2pm, 8pm, £13/£15.

Sleeping Beauty, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 2.30pm, 7.30pm, £20£42.50.

Sunday 24th Carlton Main Frickley Band, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7pm, £14/£13.

Monday 25th Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 8pm, £18-£39.50.

Tuesday 26th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 2pm, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 8pm, £18-£39.50.

We’ll Meet Again, Royal Concert hall, Nottingham, 2.30pm, £14.50.

Wednesday 27th Some Guys Have All The Luck - The Rod Stewart Story, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £18.96/£17.94.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 1.30pm, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 8pm, £18-£39.50.

Citizen Khan, Royal Concert hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £25/£32.50.

Thursday 28th Peter Kay tribute (Lee Lard), Andwhynot, Mansfield, 8.30pm, £19.90 (Incl pie and peas at 7pm and 8pm.

Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 1.30pm, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 2pm, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rwanda: Theatre For Change, Nottingham Playhouse, 6pm.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 8pm, £18-£39.50.

Friday 29th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 5.30pm, 8.30pm, £18-£39.50.

Mad About Musicals, Royal Concert hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £19.50-£26.

Saturday 30th Noises Off, Nottingham Playhouse, 7.45pm, £11.50-£13.

Old Mother Hubbard And Her Cupboard, Nottingham Playhouse, 11am, 1.30pm, £8/£7.

Kings, Nottingham Playhouse, 8pm, £13/£15.

Rocky Horror Show, Theatre Royal, Nottingham, 5.30pm, 8.30pm, £18-£39.50.

Friday 1st Rush By Bravado, The Diamond, Sutton, £6/£7.50.

Magic Of The Beatles, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm,

MUSIC

£20.50/£19.48.

Saturday 2nd Let’s Hang On, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £22/55/£21.53.

The Stones, The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

Rick Astley, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, £19.50/£29.50.

Sunday 3rd The Stone Angels, The Diamond, Sutton, £3/£4.

Tuesday 5th

17

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Jeff Guest Creative The Vamps, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, 7.20pm, £10.64£53.20.

Wednesday 6th Michael Bolton, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, from £25.

Thursday 7th Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Motorpoint Arena Notingham, 7.30pm, from £56.

Friday 8th Tigers Tails and Last Great Dreamers, The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

Little Mix, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, from £28, 7.30pm.

The Halle, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £10-£34.50.

After Hours: Bones Apart, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 9.45pm, £3.

Saturday 9th The Bon Jovi Experience and Parasite, The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £12.50-£23.

Sunday 10th The Gimmie Gimmies, The Diamond, Sutton, £4/£5.

Tuesday 12th 5 Seconds Of Summer, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, 7.30pm, £28-£39.20.

Thursday 14th Be Bop A Lula, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £22.04/£21.01.

Tribute to Noel Gallagher by Chasing Yesterday, The Diamond, Sutton, £3/£4.

Friday 15th Thank You For The Music, Palace Theatre, Mansfield, 7.30pm, £20/50/£19.48.

Tribute to Def Leppard by Hysteria, The Diamond, Sutton, £6/£7.50.

Saturday 16th The Bryan Adams Experience, The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

Philharmonia Orchestra - The Dream Of Gerontius, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £10-£34.50.

Sunday 17th Gary Barlow Tribute (Dan Hadfield), The Junction, Sutton, £7, 8pm.

Hawkwind by Do Not Panic, The Diamond, Sutton, £5/£6.50.

Wednesday 20th Tell Me On A Sunday - Jody Prenger, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £25/£28.

Thursday 21st Herding Cats, The Diamond, Sutton, £5/£6.

BBC Philharmonic, Royal Concert hall, Nottingham, 11am, £7.50.

Friday 22nd Megadeth, The Diamond, Sutton, £5/£6.50.

Saturday 23rd Guns and Roses tribute, The Diamond, Sutton, £8/£10.

Sunday 24th Where Words Fail, The Diamond, Sutton, £2/£3.

Russell Watson, Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, 7.30pm, £32.50£45.

Thursday 28th Tony Coranti (ACDC drummer), The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

Bryan Adams, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, 7.30pm, from £39.20.

Friday 29th Police by The Rozzers, The Diamond, Sutton, £6/£7.50.

Saturday 30th The UB40 Experience, The Diamond, Sutton, £7/£8.50.

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Panto-goers help hospice

THEATREGOERS in Mansfield raised £5,408 for the Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, North Anston.

The hospice’s Mansfield Support Group held bucket collections at the Palace Theatre panto. It was the third successive year of the charity collection, raising a total of £14,512.19.

Harmony in concert

SINGING group Ashfield Harmony’s next concert — A Night At The Movies at Ashfield School, Kirkby — will feature a return appearance from saxophonist Alistair Parnell.

Singers and instrumentalists will present a programme of popular melodies from many Oscar and BAFTA-nominated films, including Titanic, Mary Poppins and Game Of Thrones, and Disney movies.

Tickets for the concert on 7th May, at 7pm, are £7 from choir members or call Carolynne Bennett on 01773 775176.

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Healthy fun ACTIVITIES to mark World Health Day will take place in Mansfield Market Place on Thursday, 7th April, from 11am to 3pm.

There will be information on diabetes, donating blood to the NHS and New Leaf’s stop smoking campaign, as well as advice from Harmony Health and Beauty and Slimming World.

The Mansfield BID event will also include a Mansfield District Council Get Active nutritionist and cookery demonstrations, a calorie-counting skipping rope and a giant operation game.

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Folk milestone MANSFIELD Folk Club marked its 50th anniversary with a Singers Night featuring songs and outfits from 1966.

The club meets on Mondays, from 7.45pm to 8.30pm, at the Black Bull pub, Mansfield Woodhouse, Go to www.mansfieldfolkclub.org for further information.

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 ST JOHN Ambulance volunteers from Pinxton have raised £4,000 towards first aid equipment for their unit, including a defibrillator.

Money was raised with the support of the community and businesses, through sponsored walks, supermarket bag packs and coin collections in Kirkby and Sutton, as well as at the Pinxton Christmas fayre.

The defibrillator and other new equipment will be used to support sports events and festivals.

Denise and Garry Taylor co-ordinated the fundraising, helped by other adult volunteers, badgers and cadets from the charity’s Pinxton unit.

They are pictured receiving the new defibrillator from St John Ambulance district manager Joe Shaw.

For information on the St John Ambulance campaign, including how to make a donation, volunteering opportunities, and details of training for the public, schools and businesses, visit www.sja.org.uk

THE Mansfield Woodhouse Millennium Green Trust has received a £10,254 boost for its project to develop the green.

The green, on Welbeck Road, is managed for the benefit of local people and wildlife, and the grant will fund the creation of a wildflower meadow, community orchard and hedgerow management.

A fourth element, the carving of a tree sculpVOLUNTEERS at the Millennium Green. ture, will provide a focal point for the project.

“Nature often thrives in areas that look The grant from the SITA Trust for Access uncared for, that some would say look a The BUZZ — It’s Local And It’s Free mess. was welcomed by trust secretary Sheila “We hope that the outcome of this project McFarlane. gives local people something attractive to look at and, at the same time, is a valuable “Creating a balance between the needs resource for wildlife.” of nature and making something that is SITA Trust provides grants through the attractive to the community can be quite difLandfill Communities Fund. ficult,” she said.

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 TWO children’s hospice charities have benefited from a Santa’s Christmas grotto created by a garden centre and run by a Rotary club.

Rotn Paul Riley, president of Kirkby Rotary Club, handed cheques for £1,200 to Trevor and Christine Hipsley, for Bluebell Wood Hospice, North Anston, and to Maggie Deere, for Rainbows Hospice, Loughborough.

Paul, pictured with Maggie, was wearing the clothes he had during a trip to India, where together with two other Kirkby Rotarians he took part in a National Immunisation Day initiative to help eradicate polio.

The grotto was at the Reuben Shaw

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Nominate a hero volunteer

(Continued from page 1)  Margaret Wilson Memorial Award for issue or causebased contributions.  Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award for an individual completing exceptional or sustained actions.  Business in the Community Award for a business that has given voluntary time to support the voluntary sector (the nominator must be a representative of a voluntary sector organisation that has benefited).

Nominations close on Friday, 29th April. Winners and nominators will be invited to attend the award ceremony on Thursday, 9th June at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme.

To make a nomination go to www.mansfield.gov.uk/volun teering or for information visit www.facebook.com/mansfield volunteerawards or call Mansfield CVS on 01623 651177.

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 PUPILS at Redgate School, Mansfield, will be getting closer to nature, thanks to a donation of eco-friendly habitat huts for their school grounds from a building contractor appointed by Mansfield District Council.

Geda Construction, which is working on the council’s £1.76m housing development in Pye Avenue, presented pupils and teachers with bird boxes, insect houses, a hedgehog home and a bee house, some of which will be installed in the school’s sensory garden.

The gift is part of the company’s biodiversity campaign, which seeks to reduce the impact of construction on the flora and fauna around its building sites.

Pictured are health safety environment and quality advisor at Geda, Sam Sufferin, and the council’s portfolio holder for housing Coun Barry Answer, with Redgate pupils.

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Health

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up to Praise for patient Revved help hospital discharge scheme A COUNCIL housing scheme in Mansfield that allows patients to leave King’s Mill Hospital earlier to free up beds was shortlisted for a major national award.

ASSIST (Advocacy, Sustainment, Supporting Independence, Safeguarding Team) involves Mansfield District Council working with Nottinghamshire County Council and Sherwood Forest Hospital Trust, which runs the Sutton hospital, to help speed up the discharge of patients after treatment.

Funded by the Mid Nottinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group, the project reached the final of the health and social care category of the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) awards.

ASSIST is expected to save the NHS around £1.3m a year by reducing the delays for discharging patients from hospital as a result of their circumstances or their home being unsuitable.

As well as saving money, the scheme has often led to a huge increase in the quality of life for the vulnerable patients it has helped.

One of them, cancer sufferer Russell Cooper, who gave evidence to a panel of judges as part of the award process, said it saved his life.

Mr Cooper, evicted from his home while in hospital, said: “Without them I would not have had the strength to fight cancer. I would have given up, lay down and died. My cancer is now in remission and I can look forward to the future.”

The scheme uses four district council properties, funded by the county council, for the temporary assessment and care of discharged patients who cannot return home direct from hospital.

Vulnerable patients who may benefit from the scheme are identified in hospital by nurses and social workers, who organise care and support, and refer parents to ASSIST for support when they leave hospital.

This could see a patient return to their own home after minor adaptations are made, move into the council’s temporary ASSIST housing or be given help to find appropriate accommodation that meets their needs.

ASSIST also provides discharged patients with a range of support services, including advice on money and benefit entitlements — and sometimes food and clothes to help them get back on their feet.

The scheme aims to support more than 60 people a month and after nine months will be independently evaluated by Nottingham Trent University to assess whether or not it is worth continuing.

Mansfield District Council portfolio holder for housing, Coun Barry Answer said: “We are proud of this excellent scheme.

“We all know people recover better at home, but for some their accommodation is not suitable for their needs. This project has helped many vulnerable people to move from hospital and begin the transition home.

“It demonstrates what can be achieved through successful partnership working.”

ASSIST-ed in time of need KIKO Giles (pictured) was 15 and studying for his GCSEs when his mum suddenly fell ill and had to be rushed to hospital.

Her leg had to be amputated, which put an abrupt end to her life as a pub landlady — and meant she and Kiko were suddenly homeless.

ASSIST stepped in to move Kiko, now 16, and his mum into one of its temporary homes while a suitable property for a disabled person could be found.

Council officers ensured the family received the benefits they

were entitled to and helped in other ways, such as clearing the family’s furniture out of the pub accommodation and ensuring a carpet was laid in their new home.

“They played a fundamental role in giving my mum and myself the life we have now,” said Kiko.

“The understanding and compassion from everyone at Mansfield District Council made it happen. Everyone seemingly came together, just for me and my mum.”

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MANSFIELD Roadrunners Scooter Club staged its annual Eggs To The Mill ride for an 11th year, delivering toys and gifts to the neonatal unit at King’s Mill Hospital, Sutton, and Easter eggs for the children’s ward.

More than 300 scooter riders took part.

Over the past 11 years the club has raised more than £13,000 for the unit and collected thousands of eggs.

The money is raised through raffle and charity events with prizes donated by local people and businesses.

Club member and assistant organiser Christopher Patrick said: “We were delighted to again give gifts to help cheer up poorly children in hospital and to donate funds for vital equipment for the neonatal unit.”

Nicola Armstrong, play leader on the children’s ward, said: “We are grateful to the club and local people for their tremendous efforts and generosity over the years.”

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Sleeping advice

PARENTS and carers were encouraged to find out more about safer sleeping practices for babies at King’s Mill Hospital event during The Lullaby Trust’s Safer Sleep Week.

Trust specialists gave advice on how sleeping safely could reduce the risk of a sudden and unexpected death in infancy during the awareness week.

Cancer campaign

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE County Council’s Public Health team supported the national Be Clear On Cancer Blood In Pee campaign, which highlighted the key symptoms of kidney and bladder cancers, and encouraged people displaying them to see their doctor immediately.

Latest figures showed around 1,180 people in the East Midlands were diagnosed with bladder and kidney cancer each year.

Public Health consultant Mary Corcoran said: “Detecting bladder and kidney cancers early makes them easier to treat, so knowing the symptoms and seeing your doctor quickly if you think you may have them could save your life.”

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Partnership formed to fill summer jobs

A MANSFIELD recruitment company celebrating its 10th anniversary and a Forest Town firm have teamed up to try to fill around 70 vacancies.

Essential Recruitment has formed a partnership with Schoolblazer, a leading supplier of uniforms and sportswear for independent schools across the UK and into Europe.

Schoolblazer, which deals with around 150 schools, is looking for more than 40 sewing machinists and around 30 warehouse operatives to join the staff at its Forest Town base from May to September.

It requires lockstitch sewing machinists, packers and people to work in returns, dispatch and IT. Operations manager Sean Ryan said: “We recruit up to 100 employees during our peak season and are delighted to have formed a partnership with Essential Recruitment to fulfil our staffing requirements for 2016.”

Essential branch manager Belinda Henshaw said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Schoolblazer to provide all its additional labour requirements.”

Essential was founded in 2006 when two branches were opened in Mansfield and Ripley and since then further branches have been added in Chesterfield, Worksop, Barnsley, Wakefield, Burton, Long Eaton and Derby.

Call 01623 643777 for details of the vacancies.

2020 meeting

THE next Mansfield 2020 breakfast meeting will be at Portland College, Nottingham Road, Mansfield, on 28th April at 7.15am. Book a place at www.mansfield2020.com

Graduating into the workplace TALENTED young people have been urged to join a programme that is helping boost opportunities and retain local skills.

Ashfield and Mansfield district councils are looking for graduates and undergraduates to take up paid placements offered by both authorities as well as local businesses.

The Graduates Into Enterprise Programme, jointly funded by the district councils and Nottinghamshire County Council, links recent university graduates or undergraduates with projects relevant to their studies.

They undertake fixed-term placements to work on a specific project related to their skills and experience.

Many local graduates and undergraduates have already benefited from the programme with permanent job success stories being the outcome.

One is Thomas Moulsdale, who graduating from Lincoln University in 2015 with a degree in business and management.

He secured a placement with Mansfield District Council’s Community Safety Team and that has been extended. He is now working as a project support officer.

Thomas said: “The placement has been a great opportunity for me to implement the theory of my course and gain valuable experience through various projects.”

The councils have benefited by having graduates and undergraduates as part of

THOMAS MOULSDALE their teams, bringing innovative ideas and fresh thinking.

Coun Dave Saunders, portfolio holder for regeneration at Mansfield District Council, said: “The programme has proved to be a real asset to local businesses, which are seeing an improvement in their performance and ultimately the bottom line as a result of the work these highly-skilled young people are doing.”

Coun Diane Meale, chairman of the county council’s economic development committee, said: “It helps us to retain local, homegrown talent to help local businesses expand — and gives young people a foothold on the career ladder.”

For more information on the programme, email the Ashfield and Mansfield Shared Regeneration Service at Mansfield District Council at graduates@mansfield.gov.uk or visit www.mansfield.gov.uk/graduates

Company rewards long service GEOSTREAM Solutions Ltd’s project engineer Nick Hunn, who hit the national headlines for achieving 100% in his Microsoft MCTS Windows server exam in 2010, has been handed a month’s salary bonus for working for the company for 10 years.

Director Matthew Caunt

said: “Nick is a great asset to the company. He is a gifted and conscientious member of staff who consistently performs to the highest standards.”

Nick (right) said: “It was generous and unexpected. It was nice to think that I am appreciated enough to be recognised.”

Record year for building society MANSFIELD Building Society has posted record-breaking mortgage completions in 2015 with a best-ever figure of £70m.

The society’s strong annual results follow on from a firsthalf performance in which it reported new mortgage lending growth of 49%.

Last year the society made a number of changes to its lending criteria as well as improvements Email news items to news@news-journal.co.uk

to its portfolio of buy-to-let and residential lending products.

During the year it also strengthened its underwriting, mortgage processing and broker support teams, and began improving its online mortgage system for brokers.

According to chief executive Gev Lynott, the achievement was the result of a targeted approach, focusing on key under-served areas of the mort-

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gage market together with an emphasis on improving the service it provided.

“We’re delighted with the completions growth achieved in 2015 as it shows that our strategy of focusing on common-sense underwriting provided by friendly and helpful staff is being well received,” he said.

“Whilst automated credit scoring systems may enable some lenders to cut their operating Follow us @ MansAsh News

costs, lenders like The Mansfield recognise that in the real world, this kind of strategy has alienated some responsible home owners, prospective buyers and property investors who don’t conform to this tick-box mentality.

“Our individual mortgage-underwriting approach allows us to fully understand a customer’s circumstances and support their housing ambition — our strategy is evidently working.”

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Trees planted in park FRIENDS of Yeoman Hill Park, Mansfield Woodhouse, were joined by pupils and staff from the Manor Academy to plant a copper beech tree, funded by the Greenwood Partnership, to create additional shade overlooking the 1930s art deco bandstand.

The group then planted fruit and nut trees, provided by Mansfield District Council, to create a park orchard.

Corinna Brown, vice-chairman of the friends group, said: “We are pleased the students helped us.”

500-mile target for fundraisers A MANSFIELD businessman is among a group of fundraisers set to cycle 500 miles in 48 hours for charities.

Malcolm Hall, owner of Hall-Fast Industrial Supplies, and the team will set off from Mansfield on 30th September and ride to Twickenham Stadium, London, and then on to the Principality Stadium, Cardiff, before travelling back to Mansfield.

The cyclists are undergoing training from four-

MALCOLM Hall is organising the charity cycling marathon. times Olympic cyclist Bryan Steel and they will be supported on the ride by his newly-formed Godfrey Bikewear Race Team.

The team will include Bryan and local business people — Steve Sheppard, Darren Fowkes, Connor Doran, Mark Dowthwaite

and Tracey and Steve Pollock, who are raising money for different causes.

“I completed the 310-mile (500 kilometres) Newcastle to London ride in 24 hours last year so I have an idea of what to expect,’’ said Malcolm, who will raise money for Mansfield’s Fountaindale SEN School.

Hall-Fast has raised £60,000 raised for the school in the past three years.

Contact Bryan Steel at bryan@bryan steel.co.uk for more details on the ride

hardware to enable students to develop their creative arts and media skills.

There is also a range of retro tapes and records for

sale to staff and learners.

Donations of vinyl records, tapes and instruments can be left at the college’s main reception.

Drumming out a thank you PORTLAND College, Mansfield, has a new performance and recording studio for learners thanks to the generosity of fundraisers, led

by Richard Fuller.

Mr Fuller, of Kirkbybased County Battery Services, raised money to help transform the studio, together with other college supporters, and cut a ribbon at the opening event (right).

“The room has been completely transformed. It’s impressive,” he said.

The studio features a range of equipment such as instruments and recording

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Allotment club for youngsters

THE Little Roots Children’s Community Allotment, off Longyards Allotment site, Slant Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, is returning with activities for youngsters.

There will be an Easter egg hunt on Tuesday, 5th April, from 2pm-4pm.

The after-school gardening club for five to 11-year-olds will be held every Tuesday (term time), from 3.30pm to 5pm, from 26th April.

Children are asked to wear suitable clothing. Booking is essential, call allotment co-ordinator Richard on 07748 990509.

There will be a fundraising event on Saturday, 25th June, from 10am until 2pm, including free games and activities, and a further event on Saturday, 20th August, from 3pm to 7pm, on a ‘pizza and plonk’ theme.

For details go to www.littleroots.org or call Richard or email littlerootsallotment@yahoo. co.uk

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Display your own treasures

MANSFIELD Museum is giving collectors the chance to display their own treasures.

To tie in with its year-long exhibition Mansfield Museum In 389¼ Objects, there will be a free dedicated display unit for a different collection each month.

A spokesman said: “They can be as mainstream or as quirky as you like. Our aim is to display as wide a variety of objects as possible over the next year.

“So whether its model cars or cuff-links, cutlery or comics, get in touch and let us bring your pride and joy to the attention of hundreds of visitors.”

For more information or to receive an application form contact the museum on 01623 463088 or e-mail jhenshaw@mansfield.gov.uk

Library on move

ANNESLEY Woodhouse Library has relocated from the village church hall on Skegby Road to Acacia Centre on Acacia Avenue.

Acacia Centre manager Peter Clarke said: “We are delighted the library will be joining us as the centre, which we anticipate will be popular across the whole community.”

Opening hours at the Nottinghamshire County Council community partnership library have remained unchanged.

Royal clean-up

VEOLIA, Nottinghamshire County Council’s waste contractor, organised a litter-pick in Forest Town with the Oak Tree Conservation Group as part of the national Clean For The Queen initiative.

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New shop sells sweets of past

A NEW sweep shop in Mansfield Woodhouse has opened, selling traditional old-fashioned American-style sweets.

Toot Sweet, High Street, is the brainchild of Helen Lewis, of Mansfield Woodhouse.

Helen said: “I wanted to create a shop that would bring memories alive for people — really traditional sweets, scales to weigh them out and a glass counter.

“We’re also going to have fruit on the counter and looking into specialist sweets like gluten-free options, health bars and sweets for diabetics.”

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MANSFIELD company Plastek UK Ltd, based on Crown Farm Way, has donated £500 to Help For Heroes and £500 to the John Eastwood Hospice, Sutton, after fundraising at a Christmas lunch, including a raffle.

One of the organisers, Donna Baker, said: “We appreciate all the generous donations given by our suppliers.”

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ACTIVITIES at the Lammas Leisure Centre, Sutton, raised more than £500 for the British Heart Foundation’s Wear It, Beat It Day. More than 200 visitors got involved in a raffle, cake sale, red pool party and children’s disco.

Manager Richard Chatwin said: “This was a fantastic event, which helped to raise a lot of money for a great cause.”

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THE Nottingham Building Society in Mansfield has presented £1,000 to its chosen charity, the Nottinghamshire Independent Domestic Abuse Service (NIDAS).

The charity will use the money towards a 12-step programme to help make people aware they are in a domestic abusive relationship and what they can do about it.

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Dancers share Showtime prize TWO dance solo acts were joint winners of Mansfield Rotary Club’s annual Junior Showtime competition — the first time

in the contest’s 41-year history the panel of judges failed to decide on an outright winner.

Josh Crowther, 17, of Directions Theatre Arts, Chesterfield, and 16-year-old Sam Holden, from the Mansfield Woodhousebased Excelsior dance school, were crowned winners at the Palace Theatre, Mansfield.

Rotarian Paul Bacon, organiser and compere, said: “All of the finalists were outstanding with remarkably impressive performances in all categories. The judges had an extremely difficult task.

“Feedback from members of the audience has been amazing with many saying it must have been almost impossible to judge. No one wanted to be in the judges’ shoes.”

Josh and Sam were joint winners of the dance section, while Josh was also part of the Directions group that won the dance troupe category and came joint third overall.

Joining Mr Bacon as compere was BBC Radio Nottingham presenter Jo Davies, while the judging panel included Susan Shaw — winner in 1990 and now a professional dancer and choreographer.

Winners were:

Joint first – Josh Crowther (17) (DTA) and Sam Holden (16) (Excelsior).

Second — Verity Lee-Varley (15) New Beginnings.

Toys & Games Teenage Mutant Nin-

JOINT winners Josh Crowther and Sam Holden with organiser and compere Rotn Paul Bacon, left, Rotary club president Philip Richmond, and co-host, Jo Davies, right, of BBC Radio Nottingham.

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DUET and Youngsters’ Night winners Lacey Horner and Ebony Hardy with Miss Mansfield Amy Beilby and Philip Richmond.

Joint third — Deburnays Senior Dance Troupe and Directions Theatre Arts Dance Troupe.

Section winners Vocal — Verity Lee-Varley (15) New Beginnings Dance — Josh Crowther (17) (Directions) and Sam Holden (16) (Excelsior).

Duet and also winners of Youngsters’ Night — Lacey Horner (11) and Ebony Hardy (11) (Excelsior).

Group — Harmony Ensemble (17-18) Ashfield School.

Variety — Razz Seniors (11-16) Razzamataz.

Dance troupe joint winners — Directions Theatre Arts (13-16) and Deburnays Seniors (13-18) Most Promising Newcomer — Kaseyema Mulinge (12) (Directions).

More at www.news-journal.co.uk

News

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CHARLENE Betts, from the Peaceful Trust, right, presents a cheque to Sharon Baum, Cornwater Club charity shop manager.

New service Planting for the future from charities PUPILS from Berry Hill Primary School, Mansfield, (above) visited King George V Park to take the lead in a community orchard project.

Two classes worked in teams to plant their own fruit trees at the Mansfield park.

Funding for half the trees was secured from the Greenwood Partnership and the remainder was supplied by Mansfield District Council.

The school has taken part in many joint projects at the park. Pupils sowed a wild-

flower meadow; supported East Midlands In Bloom, Clean-Up Mansfield and Green Flag initiatives; designed a tree carving; and planted other trees and spring-flowering bulbs.

Teacher Kerry Senior said: “We are always keen to take up opportunities to visit the park.

“We encourage children to see the importance of their actions in the local area and how they can play a positive role.”

Restoration hope for iconic mill A PROJECT to breathe new life into a historic Mansfield building is under way.

Mansfield Business Improvement District (BID) has received £9,300 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for the scheme to restore the Town Mill.

The money will be used to help developers understand how best to restore the property and research what type of business would be most suitable to be based there — allowing the public to enjoy one of the town’s most iconic, surviving pieces of industrial heritage.

The public is also to be

asked for its ideas for the future of the building and an archive of photographs will be collated to guide the restoration and internal decoration of the mill.

The mill, which has been empty since it was used as a pub and live music venue, was built in the early 1700s on the site of former mills, which had stood there for hundreds of years.

One of Mansfield’s oldest pieces of surviving industrial heritage, part of the mill was destroyed by fire in 1907, John Sankey, chairman of Mansfield BID, which aims to improve the economics, appearance and feelings towards

the town centre, said: “We are confident this project will guide the developers into creating a well-restored property that will enable the public to enjoy it for decades to come.”

Mill owners Jeremy Scorer and Steve Smith said: “We are delighted with the support of Mansfield BID, helping us pave the way to the sympathetic and appropriate rejuvenation of this iconic, much-loved Mansfield landmark.

“The mill has so many memories for all of us and we are extremely grateful for the generous support from HLF, enabling the undertaking of this essential study.”

THE Cornwater Club’s charity shop on Queen Street, Mansfield, has expanded its service to include the free collection of donated furniture, through a partnership with the Peaceful Trust charity.

The charity shop, established seven years ago, sells high-quality, second-hand goods, making a major contribution to the sustainability of the Cornwater Club, an older people’s charity.

The shop does not have the facility to handle large items, but they can now be collected free through the new partnership by ringing the shop on 01623 656133 and will be sold by the trust.

Peter Rose, Cornwater Club chairman, said: “It enables us to extend the range of donated goods we can handle, helping local people and the environment by recycling these items and contributing to the club.”

The trust has donated £1,000 to the Cornwater Club and will make further donations as the service grows.

Charlene Betts, from the trust, said: “The Cornwater Club plays an important role in the community and this furniture project gives both charities an excellent opportunity to work together. We hope the project will be a great success.”

Toys fundraising

STAFF and customers at the Mansfield Argos store raised almost £6,000 towards the company’s national total of £550,000 given to children’s charity Barnado’s through the Argos Toy Exchange.

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Sport

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Legends and Quiz night winners fans join for charity event BRAVE Mansfield Town fan Nathan Edge — and his family — are behind the East Midlands’ Soccer Six tournament at One Call Stadium this month, featuring fans and legends of six clubs.

Supporters of the Stags, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Chesterfield, Leicester City and Notts County will each play with a legend from their respective clubs at the home of Mansfield Town FC. Money raised will go to Guide Dogs. The charity helped Stags’ fan Nathan (pictured) when he completely lost his sight in 2014 and has since given him a new lease of life.

Nathan is now thanking Guide Dogs by fundraising for the cause and raising awareness of the charity.

Nathan said: “Unfortunately, every hour, every day, someone loses their sight, just like me.

“I want to make sure they are able to receive the same support that I was lucky enough to get.

“When Hudson (Nathan’s guide dog) came into my life, I was in a very difficult place. My sight was slowly going and I lost my independence and I lost my freedom. I stopped doing the things I loved and I even stopped going to football.

“He was my rock throughout all of that. From there, we have gone from strength-to-strength. It has been an incredible journey.

“The club have been so supportive. I couldn’t ask for anything more. It shows how they are there to support the fans of the club.”

His father, Mick Edge, believes the event will bring different sets of supporters together and support the work of Guide Dogs.

“It’s against rivals so you can have that bit of banter, but it’s also about bringing people together,” he said.

“It’s remembering that there’s more to life outside of football. Every penny raised will go to Guide Dogs because it receives no Government funding for its services.”

The One Call Stadium pitch will be split into two halves for the tournament, with under-35s on one side and over-35s on the other.

The tournament is on Sunday, 8th May from 10.30am. Admission is £3, under-12s £1. There will be other activities taking place throughout the day.

Tickets can be purchased from the Mansfield Town ticket office or via telephone on 01623 482482.

Fans wanting to take part must raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship. Anyone interested in playing should email nathan.edge10@gmail.com stating their team and age.

The social media pages for the East Midlands Soccer Six event are: Twitter - @EMSoccerSix and Facebook East Midlands Soccer Six.

MORE than £4,000 was raised for Mansfield and Ashfield sporting causes at a Question Of Sport-style quiz night.

The annual event was staged by The Armchair Club at Mansfield Town Football Club.

The club, which has been running since 1982, helps to raise money to support sporting activities through clubs and individuals in the area.

It is run by a group of local businessmen and sports fans who arrange fundraising events throughout the year.

The sports quiz, hosted

by Bill Taylor, was won by a team from Andrew

Saunders Insurance (pictured) for the fourth time in six years.

During its 33 years The

for Businessman Backing rugby scheme joins Stags

MANSFIELD industrial supplies firm HallFast has given its support to Nottingham Rugby’s Academy by sponsoring the back of the team shirts.

The academy has been set up to support the further development of talented players aged 16-20 years within Notts Lincs and Derby (NLD) regions.

Hall-Fast has been a community partner of the club for the past five season, developing a partnership that sees Nottingham Rugby deliver sessions to youngsters in primary and secondary schools in and around Mansfield and Ashfield, and also at Mansfield’s Fountaindale SEN School.

The roll-out of the award-winning Little Ruggers programme in 2015 resulted in youngsters, aged from two to five, getting involved in the sport.

MANSFIELD Town have announced that lifelong Stags fan Mark Burton, managing director of local company Ulyett Landscapes, has joined the club’s eight-strong board of directors.

Chairman John Radford said: “Mark will be helping the club with developments at our training base in Pleasley as well as on the One Call Stadium pitch. Mark will be an excellent addition to the board.”

Mark’s company, Ulyett Landscapes, has specialised in grounds maintenance and landscaping for almost 50 years.  ON the pitch, winless March started with a 1-0 home defeat to Yeovil, who scored in injury-time after Reggie Lambe struck the bar for the Stags.

A week later their play-off hopes took another knock with their third successive 1-0 defeat, this time at Bristol Rovers.

Striker Adi Yussuf was missing from the match as he started a five-match suspension.

Manager Adam Murray strengthened his squad with loan forward Mani Dieseruvwe from Chesterfield. The striker played his part in ending the run of 1-0 defeats on his debut against Portsmouth — with Lambe on international duty for Bermuda.

Keeper Scott Shearer had already repeated his penalty save heroics from the previous month when Dieseruvwe flicked on for Matt Green to fire in his 12th goal of the season.

Portsmouth levelled when the unlucky Ryan Tafazolli deflected in a corner.

Over Easter the Stags began with yet another 1-0 defeat, their fourth in five minutes, at Wycombe.

Champions-elect Northampton Town vis-

Boost for Olympic dream MANSFIELD teenager Ethan Davis’ hopes of a place at the Winter Olympics were given a boost by two branches of the Nottingham Building Society.

Staff at the Mansfield and Sutton branches donated £350 towards the 14-year-old’s training expenses.

They raised money by selling raffle tickets in-store and on Sutton Market Place.

Armchair Club has raised more than £200,000 for sports groups and sportsmen and women in the district.

MANSFIELD industrial supplies firm Hall-Fast has given its full support to the Nottingham-based Godfrey Bikewear Race Team and will supply it with embroidered leisurewear.

The development cycling team, pictured with Hall-Fast owner Malcolm Hall, aims to take talented riders from the East Midlands and create a pathway into competition in the sport.

The team will be under the guidance of four-time Olympian and double Olympic medallist Bryan Steel.

To find out more about the Godfrey Bikewear Race Team contact Bryan on bryan@bryansteel.co.uk

Ethan’s parents, Johnny and Julia Davis, said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support.”

Senior customer advisor at the society Kirsty Thorne said: “I am convinced Ethan will follow in the footsteps of the many previous local sporting stars.”

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MANSFIELD Town fans have donated £381.48 to the club’s youth team.

Martin Shaw, who runs supporters’ website Stagsnet, is pictured, left, presenting the money to Stags director Steve Hymas.

The money was raised by the website’s users after Martin responded to requests to convert old video footage of the club’s promotion season in 2001/02 on to dvds.

He asked fans who wanted a dvd to pay £10, all of which he passed on to the club. ited One Call Stadium on Easter Monday for a feisty and controversial 2-2 draw.

The Stags raced into a two-goal lead in the first half when Green twice headed in deep free kicks, the first from Mal Benning and the second from Chris Clements.

However, the momentum swung against the home side when Jamie McGuire was dismissed for a second booking on half-time.

Lee Collins was then ruled to have pushed James Collins and substitute Ricky Holmes converted a penalty before John Marquis fired an equaliser.  In April, the Stags, still with an outside chance of making the play-offs, will face: Hartlepool (a) Saturday 2nd; Carlisle Utd (a) Saturday 9th; Notts County (h) 16th; Exeter (a) Tuesday 19th; Barnet (h) Saturday 23rd; and Leyton Orient (a) Saturday 30th.

MANSFIELD Harriers runner Ella Hughes gained third place on her England debut in the under-20s 4,200m race in the Lotto Cup, Belgium, over a heavy outdoor course.

Star attraction

WORLD Cup legend Sir Geoff Hurst is the main attraction at an event at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme, on Friday, 15th April.

The event marks the 50th anniversary of England winning the trophy, when Hurst scored a hat-trick in the final.

Go to www.hspresents.com for further information.

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