Royal Visit

The Queens Park had a Royal visitor this week.
Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester (Birgitte Eva; formerly van Deurs; born Henriksen, 20 June 1946) is a member of the British Royal Family, the wife of Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who is a grandchild of King George V.
Together with her husband, the Duchess of Gloucester undertakes royal duties on behalf of the Duke's cousin, Queen Elizabeth II.
The Duchess of Gloucester is patron of a large number of organizations, many of which have medical, educational or welfare connections. She has also accompanied the Duke of Gloucester on his official visits overseas: her first such visit was in 1973, when The Duke and Duchess represented The Queen at the 70th birthday celebrations of King Olav V of Norway.
The Duchess is sponsor of two Royal Navy Ships: HMS Gloucester and HMS Sandown. The Duchess is the patron of Bliss, the special care baby charity. She is also patron of St Paul's Cathedral School, St John's School, Leatherhead and Bridewell Royal Hospital (King Edward's School, Witley) and regularly attends functions at all three schools.
After the death of Princess Diana she became the president of the Royal Academy of Music.

She visited the Queens Park at 2 o'clock we will have picture soon. She then went on to Tatton Park were I met with her and the Duke at the display of the Queens Park at the event

The display show the Queens Park as a pop up story book with the lodges and clock tower and pictures of a spider and web to represent Webb who helped to create the park. If you going to the flower show be sure to take a look and even win a hamper

Restoration Nearing Completion?

A day of celebration is being held at Queens Park in Crewe to mark all the restoration work that has been carried out over recent years.

On Saturday, September 10, the park will be alive with music, song, dance and a whole host of fun activities for people of all ages.

Some of the highlights planned for the free event include:

• Dance routines from local groups;
• Falconry displays;
• A hilarious travelling theatre show;
• Play and sport development activities including Nordic walking;
• Funfair;
• The Heritage Centre miniature steam train;
• Charity stalls; and
• The Starquest 2011 talent show finale.

In addition, there will be a procession involving pupils from several Crewe schools which will travel from Pyms Lane to the park, led by the Crewe Sea Cadets Corp Band.

Reaseheath College is joining forces with Crewe and Nantwich Horticulture Society to present a fabulous local produce and activities show, including demonstrations.

The climax to the day will be a huge pyrotechnic show including fireworks, flame shapes, gas jets and special effects from 9pm. Arena activities start at 4pm.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “This is set to be a great day and with so many events on offer, there is sure to be something for everyone.

“In Queens Park, the town, along with Cheshire East, has a great asset and it is only right that we celebrate the excellent restoration work that has been carried out there.”

Councillor Roy Cartlidge, ward member for Crewe St. Barnabas and Crewe Mayor, said: “Events like this really bring the community together and it is only right that we celebrate Crewe’s rich heritage and exciting future.

“I would also like to encourage people to dress in Victorian period clothing for the day. I will be easy to spot in a top hat and waistcoat and I am looking forward to seeing the other outfits on show.”

This week has been mad with everything happening all at once in a prelude to the royal visit next week. Its hard to know were to start so starting at the main gate they have been cleaned up and looking good.

The lodges are finished and the gardeners have even got the flowers in for a usual show of colour. The path between the lodges has been resurfaced.

All the rubble by the lodges leading to Coronation Walk has been levelled and there have been lots of bulldozers putting in top soil in the area.

The most work has been around the cafe and the Boar war statue you wouldn't believe the difference to the area in a few short days.

The lions have returned back to the original position from years ago as they have for many years been to high.

 

The side of the cafe has been landscaped over looking the woodland walk.

This is the view from the cafe veranda looking out onto the lake. The only blot on the landscape is the hot weather has turned the lake green at Tipkinder end.

Wyche School's Centenary Celebrations

Councillor Brian Silvester has paid tribute to the Wyche Primary School in Nantwich  which has just celebrated its centenary. It was opened on the 26th of July  1911. He said," Three generations of my family attended the school  and I am a former Parent Governor. I have been very impressed with the high standards the school achieves. It has always been a school that pupils are very happy to attend and parents are always pleased when their child obtains a place at the school. It has given a good education to many thousands of children from Nantwich and the surrounding villages over the last hundred years and it can look forward to the future with confidence."

Attached is a photo of 50 years ago. I am on the second row from the back, the 6th one from the left

MP’s News Bulletin

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 89th electronic news bulletin.

In recent days, the whole country has been shocked by the revelations about the phone hacking scandal. Accusations of widespread law-breaking by parts of our press, alleged corruption by some police officers and a failure of our political system over many, many years to tackle a problem that's been getting worse.

Last week we set out our intention to establish an independent public inquiry into phone hacking and other illegal practices in the British press. There are two pieces of work to be done. First: a full investigation into wrongdoing in the press and the police, including the failure of the first police investigation. Second: a review of regulation of the press. We would like to get on with both these elements as quickly as possible, while being mindful of the ongoing criminal investigations. So after listening carefully, we have decided the best way to proceed is with one inquiry in two parts.

This Inquiry will be led by one of the most senior judges in the country, Judge Leveson, and be established under the 2005 Inquiries Act, means it will have the power to summon witnesses to give evidence under oath and in public. He will make recommendations for a new, more effective way of regulating the press, and about the future conduct of relations between politicians and the press. This part of the Inquiry will report within 12 months. The second part of the inquiry will examine: the extent of unlawful or improper conduct at the News of the World and other newspapers, and the way in which management failures may have allowed this to happen. This part of the Inquiry will also look into the original police investigation and the issue of corrupt payments to police officers.

Allegations have been made that some corrupt police officers may have taken payments from newspapers. And there are wider concerns that the relationship between the police and the press can be too close. The IPCC's most senior Commissioner has been supervising the Met's work to identify the officers who may have taken these payments. They will go wherever the evidence leads them and have full powers to investigate fully any police wrong doing that they might uncover. The Home Secretary has also today commissioned a report from the IPCC on the IPCC's experience of investigating corruption in the police service and any lessons that can be learnt.

If we are calling for greater transparency, it is only right we provide it in government too. So we will be consulting the Cabinet Secretary on an amendment to the Ministerial Code to require Ministers to record all meetings with newspaper and other media proprietors, senior editors and executives - regardless of the nature of the meeting. Permanent Secretaries and Special Advisers will also be required to record such meetings. Alongside the other steps we are taking, this will help make the UK government one of the most transparent in the world.

Please remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me.

You can forward the bulletin on to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking here for my website.

Best wishes 

Edward Timpson
Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich

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I have recently ...

• Held a surgery at my office in Crewe
• Met with residents in Nantwich as part of my 'On Your Street' campaign to make sure that everyone can make sure their thoughts and concerns have been heard by me
• Attended the Nantwich Family Fun Day in Barony Park
• Attended the Crewe Golf Club Centenary Ball
• Supported SANDS (stillbirth and neonatal death charity) charity Fun Day
• Participated in the Westminster Hall Debate on the Train-building Industry. Read more here
• Asked Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Education, a question in the House of Commons. Read more here
• Met with Anne Ibrahim from Big Society Works to talk about the running of Marshfield Bank Centre as a social enterprise
• Attended the opening concert of the 2011 Flower Festival at St Mary's Church, Nantwich

...This weekend I will be

• Opening Wyche Primary School Centenary Fayre
• Opening the new play area in Stapeley near to the Pear Tree Primary School

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Petitions

To sign Edward's Welfare Petition click here

To Sign Edward's Immigration Petition click here

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Community News

Greenspaces South Cheshire CIC

On Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th June, over 25 volunteers got stuck in to maintain and improve the Riverside in Nantwich. As with the Civic Society’s Big spring Clean in April, local volunteers were assisted by 15 staff from Barclays HQ at Knutsford and some local branches, like Middlewich and Nantwich. The first day saw the willow feature area pruned, weeded and re-woven, together with some vital balsam pulling – to prevent it’s spread after flowering.... Read the full story here

Do you have community news to share? Email me and it could be here too!

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Photos & Video ...

On Your Street - Edward will soon be on a street near you, watch out for the flyers on your doormat and come and say hello

You can view all my photos and video at edwardtimpsonmp.com

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Virgin London Marathon 2011

Raising money for Parkinson's UK in Crewe & Nantwich

In April I completed my 9th marathon, raising money for Parkinson's UK Crewe Branch.  There's still time to sponsor me on my webpage and help support a great organisation!

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Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson urges diabetics not to suffer in silence

Crewe Chronicle

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has encouraged local people living with diabetes to speak out about their experiences.

Attending the Diabetes UK parliamentary event, the politician urged people not to suffer in silence, and expressed concern that people often keep their condition a secret, many for fear of discrimination or bullying.

He said: “There are 20,259 people diagnosed with diabetes in Cheshire East who need friends, family, employers and the public to understand how common diabetes is becoming and how serious it can be if people aren’t supported to manage their condition.

“All people should receive enough support to help them manage their diabetes and that’s why services such as the Diabetes UK Careline are so vital.

“Simply knowing you have someone to talk to can make all the difference to help people better manage their diabetes and reduce their risk of developing devastating complications.”

The national charity was aiming to raise £200,000 throughout last week’s awareness week to expand its Careline, which provides information and emotional support to anyone experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, depression and other difficulties.

© 2011 Crewe Chronicle

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Edward Interviewed by Love Nantwich

Love Nantwich

Just incase you didn’t know, our Member of Parliament is Edward Timpson, who has been MP for Crewe and Nantwich since the by-election in May 2008, and held onto the seat for the Conservatives at the 2010 General Election.

Edward is a very approachable guy and a real local figure, he can often be seen at events around the town and regularly runs marathons to raise funds for local charities, his last (10th!!) marathon was run in April with his 68-year-old dad for the Crewe and Nantwich branch of Parkinson’s UK. He is also a family man and last time I spoke to him he praised LoveNantwich saying it’s a vital resource for parents, who sometimes struggle to meet up with other mums and dads when they first have a baby. He and his wife Julia went through the same when they first began having children (Julia moved to Nantwich from Kent) – they now have three, Sam (aged 6) and two girls, Elizabeth (aged 4) and Lydia (aged 2 and a leap year baby!) all born at Leighton Hospital.

And best of all, Edward agreed to succumb to the LoveNantwich interview, which I think readers will enjoy – see below:

Tell me about your culinary skills. Greasy spoon or Masterchef potential?

Definitely greasy spoon although in an effort to stay in shape I have recently discovered the delights of grilled fish and throwing any vegetables to hand into the mixer and turning into a soup. I enjoy making the children pancakes on a Saturday morning, but not as much as they enjoy eating them.

Given the choice, what would your final meal be?

Full English breakfast

Any guilty pleasures?

See above plus Caramac bars and watching box sets of US drama series

Your house is on fire and you can only save one item – what would it be?

My family photo album

Who’s the most inspirational person you’ve ever met and why?

Can I say my mum?! She has fostered over 90 children in the last 30 years as well as adopt 2 of my brothers. Growing up in that environment undoubtedly shaped my strong sense of social justice that I carry with me today.

Life changing moment(s)?

The birth of my first child Sam in 2002. Life has never been the same again!

Where’s your favourite place to go in Nantwich?

Sitting inside St Mary’s Church with the sun streaming in through the windows

Where can you find the best cup of tea and cake?

Has to be Chatwins

Nantwich Town or Crewe Alex?

Whichever team I happen to be watching! I’m lucky to have played a few charity games at the Weaver Stadium.

Favourite book as a child?

The Twits by Roald Dahl. I defy any adult to read the first chapter again and not chuckle.

Favourite story to read out loud to your children?

At the moment any Horrid Henry story for the voices and the belly laughs. For a timeless classic Tiggers Can’t Climb Trees by A.A.Milne is hard to beat.

Favourite book as an adult?

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

You’ve £1m to give away to a charity of your choice. Which would it be?

Home-Start – providing support for families with young children. I have seen firsthand the real and positive social impact their volunteers make through intervening early in families struggling to cope. I was happy to offer them my support by becoming their patron and running last year’s London Marathon to raise funds for their work.

If you have any issues you would like to raise with our MP, he will be holding surgeries at his Crewe Constituency Office tomorrow (Friday) between 1pm and 3pm and Nantwich Library on Friday 8th July between 1pm and 3pm. To make an appointment, T: 01270 501725 E: timpsone@parliament.uk

© 2011 Love Nantwich

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5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

• By email: timpsone@parliament.uk
• On the web: edwardtimpsonmp.com
• By phone: 01270 501 725
• By post: 30 Victoria Street, Crewe CW1 2JE
• In person: Click here to see surgery times

CREWE'S SUMO KINGS TO PLAY LAST EVER GIG

ONE of South Cheshire’s most recognisable bands is calling it a day – but fans will have one last chance to catch them live on Saturday, July 23.

Indie outfit Sumo Kings were at the forefront of the area’s music scene in 2008 and 2009 but, after a relatively quiet 18 months, the trio have decided to bow out.

Chris Farrington (bass guitar/vocals), Steve Foster (guitar/laptop) and Jamie Oliver (drums) will make their final appearance at the trendy Square One bar in Mill Street, Crewe.

Lending a hand on the Sumos’ final outing are pals Inuendo, Blunderbuss Benefit and former manager Richard Barclay, who will DJ under his Rodeo Terrorists guise.

Farrington, 28, said: “We wanted all the people who helped us out over the years to be involved in this.

“We used to rehearse in Inuendo’s practice room and even held a secret gig there, so it holds some good memories for us. And we wanted to involve Inuendo to thank them for their patience with us because we could be a bit of a handful!

“Blunderbuss Benefit have been good friends with us for years and we thought it’d be fitting for them to support as well. And Richard was always a good source of advice and help so we wanted him to be there.”

The Sumos had originally hoped to have former bassist Adam Davies back for the farewell but Blunderbuss’ Sam Boulton will fill on bass duties on some of the older tunes.

Farrington added: “It’s a shame Ad couldn’t join us but we will still be playing most of our back catalogue, with old songs in their original format and some revamped. We’re all looking forward to the night and hope we can bow out in style.”

In their pomp, Sumo Kings shared a stage with some big acts like Feeder, The Twang and The Bluetones and held their own club night, Club Sumo, at Square One.

Drummer Oliver, 28, said: “In many ways it’s a real shame but sometimes you know when things have to come to an end. We’ve enjoyed some great times and there’s been some really exciting nights, the sort of thing that comes with being in a band.

“And to say we have played main support to bands like Feeder is something not a lot of people can say and be proud of.”

Entry is free of charge and doors will open at approximately 7pm.

Crime News

Please can I make you aware of a recent distraction burglary that has taken place on the 12th July in the Crewe area.  I am circulating this to all coordinators in Crewe as I would like everyone to be aware of this and make neighbours/family members aware, particularly if you know people who may be more vulnerable to this type of crime.  It is worth being mindful that these types of crime can happen over the whole area and people who operate in this crime often operate during daylight hours.  As such if people see any suspicious behaviour in relation to people knocking on doors and loitering in an area please make the police aware via 0845 458 0000.
A male has posed at an address to be a member of the waterboard. The male has asked the victim to go upstairs and run the taps - whilst the victim has been doind this a large amount of cash was taken.

Please remember the Waterboard doesn't exist, it is United Utilities. Please also remember to ask for identification of anyone who calls at your house unannounced. A genuine caller will not mind waiting on the doorstep with the door closed while you check with the company they purport to work for that they are a bona fide representative. If you are still not happy, call the police.

Crime News

Please beware that we are still having a number of theft from vehicles happening within the Crewe, Nantwich, and Congleton Neighbourhood Policing Areas. There is no current pattern to them and they are spread out across the areas, they have mainly been occurring in the Crewe area.
On all occasions entry has been gained via insecure doors.  Please can you remind members of the importance of double checking that their vehicles are secure when left unattended.  The majority of us have good security on our vehicles but this is undermined when doors are left insecure and provides an opportunist thief with an easy entry point to take your items.  It is also important to remove items from show within your vehicle - even seemingly inexpensive items.  As well as items such as sat navs, cd's, money and tools, thieves have also been known to take items such as old coats, handfuls of loose change, sunglasses etc from vehicles.  If you have items such as lunch boxes wrapped in carrier bags or inexpensive items (such as a gym kit) in a rucksack it is also important to remove these.  You may know that the item in the bag is of no value but an opportunist thief may take the time to break in to see what is in the bag or rucksack.
CREWE - There have been a few burglaries over the last week one of which was through an insecure rear door taking numerous items of jewellery. Please can you remind your members to keep the house secure at all times as sneak in burglaries can happen at any time of the day and also take place when the home owner is inside.
There has also been a distraction burglary happen in the area of Crewe - the offender has stated that he has come to take an old television. The occupant has taken him through to the rear garden where he has told the occupant to wait - after 10minutes he hasnt returned and the occupant has gone back in to discover a missing bag. Unfortunately there is no description but this is being circulated so that your members can be made aware. If it can be reiterated that they only allow persons that they know into their address.
NANTWICH - There has also been a burglary in the Nantwich area, this has occurred during the night and entry was forced into the house and items were taken. Please can members be alerted to if they see anything unusual or suspicious to contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or if a crime is taking place then to call 999.
CONGLETON - There has been one incident in Middlewich where during a morning period a van being used by workmen has had a Styll Strimmer removed from the van, the workmen were working close by and so the van had been left insecure.
Also we have had an incident in Sandbach where a member of public on a supermarket carpark has had a Debit card stolen. This was taken by a male and a female. The male has distracted her by stating that she had dropped £20 on the floor - when the female has checked her purse it is believed that the female has then taken her debit card.
The male is described as: Male described as having a Mediterranean 'golden' complexion and 'handsome'

- 35 yrs old 5'10 - 5'11 12 stone - Dark Hair slightly curly - dark
coloured eyes and white teeth. Wearing a light coloured suit.
Please can you all make your members aware and ask them to pay extra attention when using their cards and to make sure that they cover their PIN number. It is believed that these teams work all across the country and they tend to travel out of their home area. A large amount of money was taken so they have clearly witnessed the PIN. The teams have also been known to try and distract people when they are putting shopping in the car as a handbag etc may be in a different part of the car - it is recommended to keep all valuables with you.

Leader and Cabinet applauded over school transport decision

 

Spontaneous applause broke out when the Leader of Cheshire East Council announced a one-year postponement of any decision on the future of subsidised home-to-school transport for faith schools and post-16 pupils.

At today’s (Monday, July 4) Cabinet meeting, Councillor Hilda Gaddum proposed an option to: withdraw transport to faith primary and secondaries to new pupils from September 2012; withdraw post-16 transport for new pupils from September 2012; and increase the parental contribution for denominational transport by five per cent from £299 to £314 per year.

The proposal from the Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services was seconded by Council Leader Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald.

But, after visiting councillors and members of the public spoke out against the plans, Councillor Fitzgerald announced “an unusual step” and adjourned the meeting for five minutes to consult with Councillor Gaddum and director of children and family services Lorraine Butcher.

On his return, Councillor Fitzgerald announced the postponement of part of the decision relating to the withdrawal of transport but said: “We will be implementing the five per cent charge on the subsidy. That will be effective from September 2011.

“This means that parents will contribute £314 from September, instead of the current £299. This reflects the current rate of five per cent inflation.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum withdrew her original proposal and the packed meeting broke out into spontaneous applause.

After the meeting Councillor Gaddum said: “This consultation, I know, has been challenging and difficult and I would like to thank all those who have taken the time to contribute.

“Throughout the consultation period, I have listened to and considered carefully all the concerns that have been raised.

“I would particularly like to thank those who took time to attend the Cabinet meeting today, at which, in response to the views expressed and the points raised, we agreed to pause for one year to consider a difficult task even further.

“I hope that the outcome of today’s meeting demonstrates clearly that we do listen to all views. I very much hope that the further work that will be undertaken will lead to a positive outcome.”

The proposals put before Cabinet followed unprecedented financial challenges facing councils – with rising demand for services and a squeeze on revenues.

Cheshire East Council needs to find savings of about £50m over the next few years. As a result, the Council has an obligation to its taxpayers to examine each area of discretionary activity to identify where any savings can be made.

MP’S Bulletin 87

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 87th electronic news bulletin.

The low turnout for last week's strike action was not a surprise. There are many union members who disagree with their leadership pushing for walkouts when serious talks, set up at the request of the TUC itself, are still ongoing. As Brendan Barber himself said, the government are approaching this whole process in good faith. No doubt this is a complex issue, however I question whether strikes are a constructive contribution.

As Lord Hutton, the former Labour Pensions Minister has said in his report commissioned by the Government into public sector pensions, reform is essential and long overdue and I am confident the Government will ensure that they will still be among the very best, with a guaranteed pension which very few private sector staff now enjoy. This will be best achieved by meaningful and purposeful dialogue between all parties involved.

Please remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me.

You can forward the bulletin on to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking here for my website.

Best wishes 

Edward Timpson
Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich

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I have recently ...

• Held a Constituency Surgery at my office in Crewe
• Visited the Life Education Centre at Gainsborough Primary School and had a whistle stop tour of the shool grounds with the head Mrs Metcalfe
• Visited the Salisbury Estate to meet local residents and hear their concerns
• Hosted a reception in Parliament for CLIMB (Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases) marking the charity's 10th anniversary who are based on Nantwich Road in Crewe
• Attended the opening the new Blakenhall Village Hal - congratulations to the committee and all those involved in raising the money and making it happen
• Met and sang with The Funky Choir at the Sir William Stanier School Leisure Centre
• Celebrated the passing of one year until the 2012 Olympics by attending the organising committee's Parliamentary reception with Lord Coe and Jonathan Edwards
• Attended the King's Grove School Charity Run with pupils and staff and the Gainsborough Primary School sports day
• Met with the Sports Minister to discuss the FA's decision to close the Alexandra Girls Football Centre of Excellence
• Visited Dingle Primary School in HAslington on their Green Action Day

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COMING SOON: Community News

Coming soon...

I will be showcasing the best local news stories from your own community on my website, in my office and eNewsletter.

I invite you to send me your good news stories from your community, so we can highlight the hard work of our local Volunteers, Community Stars and Fundraisers!

Look out for new announcements at www.edwardtimpson.com

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Photos & Video ...

Edward singing along with the Funky Choir at the Sir William Stanier School Leisure Centre

You can view all my photos and video at edwardtimpsonmp.com

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Virgin London Marathon 2011

Raising money for Parkinson's UK in Crewe & Nantwich

In April I completed my 9th marathon, raising money for Parkinson's UK Crewe Branch.  There's still time to sponsor me on my webpage and help support a great organisation!

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Nantwich Family Fun Day set to be biggest yet

Crewe Chronicle

NANTWICH Family Fun Day organisers say they are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s event the ‘biggest and best yet’.

They have also announced that Savage Skills – the UK’s leading freestyle mountain bike stunt team – will be headlining at the event which will take place between 10.30am and 5.30pm on Saturday, July 9 at the Barony Park.

The event, now in its 7th year, offers families a free day out and will be officially opened by Nantwich Family Fun Day chairman Keith Cafferty along with Nantwich mayor Arthur Moran and MP Edward Timpson.

Event organiser Simone Cafferty said: “We’re delighted to have secured Savage Skills for our event, it’s an opportunity for Nantwich to have the world champions in their sport in our midst, and we’re really looking forward to what they have promised will be a jaw dropping display!

“We’ve tried to get a good balance of the old favourites with some new elements, so you can expect to see attractions such as the falconry display, Punch and Judy, inflatables, the fun fair, and the ever popular Oscar’s Dog Show.

“But we’ve also introduced new elements such as the mini farm, Zorb Balls, a climbing wall, and the Cheshire Police Dog Handling Team to this year’s event, so there will be plenty going on to keep all the family smiling!”

The Rotary Club of Nantwich will also be presenting the Young Citizen of the Year Award at the event.

Chairman Keith said: “This is an event for the Nantwich community organised by the community, and it’s fantastic this year to have so many local businesses and community groups involved.

“We’re very grateful to all our supporters who help make this event possible, including Nantwich Town Council for their grant towards the cost of the event, and to Lakeside Superbowl who are sponsoring the music stage.”

For more information visit www.nantwichfunday.co.uk

© 2011 Crewe Chronicle

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Crewe Rail Jobs Under Threat

Crewe Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has blasted the previous Labour government for placing Crewe rail jobs at risk.

Crewe’s vanishing rail industry received another blow this week after train-maker Bombardier announced it is to review its UK operations after missing out on a major contract to build carriages for the Thameslink project.

It was revealed last week that the transport firm, which operates a plant on the former Crewe Works site, had lost out to German company Siemens, which was named preferred bidder for the estimated £1.4bn deal.

Mr Timpson said: “The Secretary of State for Transport will not be surprised to hear that I believe this is the wrong decision.

“I am angry, and Bombardier's employees and management have my sympathy.

“Affected Conservative MPs in Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire lobbied very hard against this decision on their behalf, but the law was not on our side.

“In 2008 it was the Labour government that set unfair terms for this long bidding process, priced Bombardier out of the market before they had even started, and tied the hands of the coalition Government under European law.

“Labour sent the economic benefits of the Inter City Express train manufacture to Japan, and has now sent the economic benefits of the Thameslink train manufacture to Germany. They learned nothing.

“It's no wonder a railway constituency like Crewe and Nantwich chose to end its love affair with Labour.

“Gordon Brown may have wanted ‘British jobs for British workers’, but he never put his money where his mouth was. And this is the result. Again.”

Bosses at Bombardier, which employs more than 5,000 people at its plants in Crewe and Derby, said a ‘full review’ would take place as soon as possible.

A spokesman would not comment on the future of the plants or potential job losses.

But he added: “We have told our staff that we realise that this is a period of uncertainty and we will try to ensure that the review is conducted as soon as we can.

"However, we are not issuing a time scale. It's important that this review is conducted thoroughly."

The Unite union described the news was a ‘hammer blow’ for British manufacturing.

Transport Minister Theresa Villiers said in a statement that the Siemens-led venture represented the best value for money for taxpayers.

© 2011 Crewe Guardian

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Edward Interviewed by Love Nantwich

Love Nantwich

Just incase you didn’t know, our Member of Parliament is Edward Timpson, who has been MP for Crewe and Nantwich since the by-election in May 2008, and held onto the seat for the Conservatives at the 2010 General Election.

Edward is a very approachable guy and a real local figure, he can often be seen at events around the town and regularly runs marathons to raise funds for local charities, his last (10th!!) marathon was run in April with his 68-year-old dad for the Crewe and Nantwich branch of Parkinson’s UK. He is also a family man and last time I spoke to him he praised LoveNantwich saying it’s a vital resource for parents, who sometimes struggle to meet up with other mums and dads when they first have a baby. He and his wife Julia went through the same when they first began having children (Julia moved to Nantwich from Kent) – they now have three, Sam (aged 6) and two girls, Elizabeth (aged 4) and Lydia (aged 2 and a leap year baby!) all born at Leighton Hospital.

And best of all, Edward agreed to succumb to the LoveNantwich interview, which I think readers will enjoy – see below:

Tell me about your culinary skills. Greasy spoon or Masterchef potential?

Definitely greasy spoon although in an effort to stay in shape I have recently discovered the delights of grilled fish and throwing any vegetables to hand into the mixer and turning into a soup. I enjoy making the children pancakes on a Saturday morning, but not as much as they enjoy eating them.

Given the choice, what would your final meal be?

Full English breakfast

Any guilty pleasures?

See above plus Caramac bars and watching box sets of US drama series

Your house is on fire and you can only save one item – what would it be?

My family photo album

Who’s the most inspirational person you’ve ever met and why?

Can I say my mum?! She has fostered over 90 children in the last 30 years as well as adopt 2 of my brothers. Growing up in that environment undoubtedly shaped my strong sense of social justice that I carry with me today.

Life changing moment(s)?

The birth of my first child Sam in 2002. Life has never been the same again!

Where’s your favourite place to go in Nantwich?

Sitting inside St Mary’s Church with the sun streaming in through the windows

Where can you find the best cup of tea and cake?

Has to be Chatwins

Nantwich Town or Crewe Alex?

Whichever team I happen to be watching! I’m lucky to have played a few charity games at the Weaver Stadium.

Favourite book as a child?

The Twits by Roald Dahl. I defy any adult to read the first chapter again and not chuckle.

Favourite story to read out loud to your children?

At the moment any Horrid Henry story for the voices and the belly laughs. For a timeless classic Tiggers Can’t Climb Trees by A.A.Milne is hard to beat.

Favourite book as an adult?

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

You’ve £1m to give away to a charity of your choice. Which would it be?

Home-Start – providing support for families with young children. I have seen firsthand the real and positive social impact their volunteers make through intervening early in families struggling to cope. I was happy to offer them my support by becoming their patron and running last year’s London Marathon to raise funds for their work.

If you have any issues you would like to raise with our MP, he will be holding surgeries at his Crewe Constituency Office tomorrow (Friday) between 1pm and 3pm and Nantwich Library on Friday 8th July between 1pm and 3pm. To make an appointment, T: 01270 501725 E: timpsone@parliament.uk

© 2011 Love Nantwich

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5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

• By email: timpsone@parliament.uk
• On the web: edwardtimpsonmp.com
• By phone: 01270 501 725
• By post: 30 Victoria Street, Crewe CW1 2JE
• In person: Click here to see surgery times

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Council launches ‘one-stop-shop’ website for children and families’ services

 

Cheshire East Council has launched an online service to help families and carers get the help and information they need via one website.

The online directory enables people to find family services, activities and childcare services in one place. In addition, there is really useful information, advice and guidance on several related areas on the left-hand side of the webpage.

The extensive Children and Families Resource Directory can be viewed via the Council’s website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fidy

There are also key links to other directories, such as the voluntary sector, adult services and the NHS directory for Cheshire East, as well as important links to the Children’s Trust and Local Safeguarding Children Board webpages.

Cheshire East Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services, said: “This is an excellent development which will help give people better access to information about all the children and family services available. I am absolutely delighted.

“The family information service is reliant on feedback from users to help further shape and improve its service. So, please do get in touch with the Council if there are services that you come across which are not in the directory and we will aim to get these online links added.”

In addition to the launch, a member of the family information service can also help organisations and groups with tips on how to get the best out of the online directory service.

If you think there are any gaps in the information available or feel that other links would benefit this online directory, or you would like help to get the most out of this service, contact the Cheshire East’s family information service by emailing: fis.east@cheshireeast.gov.uk

The Children and Families Resource Directory is available at:

http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/fidy

Former Masterchef winner Dhruv Baker announced for Nantwich and South Cheshire Show

 

A former Masterchef winner will be bringing some added spice to this year’s Nantwich and South Cheshire Show.

Dhruv Baker, who was crowned champion of the popular BBC cooking series in 2010, will appear on the Dairy Crest stand in the Nantwich International Cheese Awards arena at the show at Dorfold Park on July 27.

He joins fellow top chefs James Martin and Gino D’Acampo at the event, which is set to attract an enthusiastic crowd of around 32,000 people.

The 35-year-old combines his Mexican and Indian heritage to create his own culinary wonders from a love of many ingredients, especially spices.

Dhruv claims Gordon Ramsey influenced him hugely through his passion and talent and states that as a young graduate he purchased all Ramsey’s books.

Adrian Lawrence, show secretary, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dhruv to the Nantwich and South Cheshire Show for the first time.

“We now have a trio of culinary masters ready to share their cooking secrets with our many visitors.

“Tickets are selling fast and I urge people to buy in advance to ensure they get the discounted rate.”

To win Masterchef, Dhruv served up an impressive three-course meal starting with lobster tail poached in saffron and ginger, served with a celeriac puree on a bed of blanched fennel with a buerre noisette foam.

His main consisted of venison served alongside potato, brunoise and fenugreek crust, carrot and cumin puree under sugar glazed carrots, confit chestnuts, and was finished with a venison jus.

For his third course he served a trio of desserts: pear poached in sauterne and star anise, masala chi ice-cream, and finally a chocolate truffle topped with pistachio.

Dhruv will be on hand to sign autographs, as will the other celebrities appearing at the show, which runs from 8am-8pm.

Former Coronation Street actor Sean Wilson, who played Martin Platt, will be enjoying his third successive year at the event with his Saddleworth Cheese Company.

Advance tickets are £13 (adults), £9 (senior citizens) £4 (juniors), £35 (family). Call 01270 537359 to order, entrance will be dearer on the day.

For more information, visit www.nantwichshow.co.uk

School meals price increase

 

Cheshire East Council is to increase the cost of its school meals by 10 pence from September.

The small increase means pupils will continue to enjoy nutritious and tasty lunches that represent great value for money.

Last year the authority’s School Meals Service froze prices at 2009/10 levels of £2 per meal in primary schools and £2.15 in secondary schools – despite national increases in food and fuel costs.

However, following government cuts in funding and continuing cost pressures, it has not been possible to freeze prices for a second year running. Prices will increase to £2.10 per meal in primary schools and £2.25 in secondaries.

The 10p price rise is intended as a guideline only so, while it is likely to be adopted by the majority of schools, some may choose to implement a different charge.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and families, said: “Like all local authorities, we are facing increasing costs from our suppliers but our School Meals Service continues to work hard to minimise the impact by carefully managing staff and resources.

“School meals are a popular choice in Cheshire East. We serve up more than 17,500 lunches each day, all of which are freshly prepared on the premises using locally-sourced ingredients as much as possible.

“They represent excellent value for money and follow stringent nutritional standards, which mean parents can be confident that their children are enjoying a tasty and healthy midday meal.”

Pupils can select from a two-course menu with a choice of two main course meals and a pudding.

High school pupils also have the option of filling their plates in ‘cash cafeterias’, where they can buy sandwiches and select from a salad bar.

The School Meals Service has produced a leaflet for pupils titled ‘What’s for Lunch?’ outlining menu choices for the new term which also features tips for a healthy lifestyle.

Local Development Framework consultation events launched

 

It's time to have your say on shaping the future of our towns and villages.

Cheshire East Council is undertaking the next stage of consultation on the Local Development Framework, called the ‘Place Shaping’ consultation.

Between now and September, the local authority’s spatial planning team will be working closely with the people of Cheshire East to look at the issues and challenges facing town and village communities. The aim is to find out how people think the towns and villages should look in the future. This is your chance to have your say.

Cheshire East is holding several consultation events over the summer that you can get involved in. It is starting off with four Local Area Partnership/Local Development Framework workshops, at the following times and locations:

● Tuesday July 5, Assembly Rooms, Macclesfield 6.30pm-8.30pm, covering Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Poynton, Handforth, Knutsford and the surrounding areas;

● Wednesday July 6, Malbank High School, Nantwich, 6.30pm-8:30pm, covering Nantwich and the surrounding areas;

● Monday July 11, Crewe Alexandra Football Club, Crewe, 6pm-8.30pm, covering Crewe and the surrounding areas;

● Wednesday July 13, Congleton Town Hall, 6.30pm-8.30pm, covering Congleton, Sandbach, Middlewich, Alsager and the surrounding areas.

To register for one of the workshops, e-mail: ldfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk 

or ring 01270 685893 with your name, the town or village that you want to talk about and the venue and date of the event that you would like to attend.

The deadline for registering is Monday July 4, 2011.

There will also be exhibitions throughout Cheshire East where members of the public can talk to us about the future planning of their town or village. These will take place later in the summer and autumn.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to get involved in this process and have their say on the future of their communities.

“This plan will determine our development over the next 20 years so it is vital that we have as much public input as possible.”

More information on the Local Development Framework can be found on Cheshire East Councils website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf

Prepare for the road ahead with Cheshire East

 

Planning your journey has just become a little easier thanks to Cheshire East Council.

Residents can now view live map data showing traffic and travel information as part of a revamped transport and travel website.

Before drivers head out on the road, they can now visit the site and find details on roadworks, disruptions, events, car park location and capacities and CCTV cameras on the roads and motorways.

There is also an option to work out what the carbon impact is of any journey by entering details into the ‘carbon calculator’ option.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “This will further enhance the information provided to residents and those travelling through the Borough to help make informed decisions when planning journeys. It should also prove useful for councillors themselves.

“The site contains information about how we maintain the Cheshire East road network and how people can report problems, such as a pothole, missing sign or defective street light.

“This is a further example of our attempts to enhance the Cheshire East environment.”

Digital warning signs found on Cheshire East motorways can also be viewed online. The aim is now to introduce further information on bus stops, gritting routes, road closures and diversions.

For more information, or to begin planning your route, visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk and click on Transport and Travel on the left-hand side of the screen.

Major cattle showcase staged at Nantwich and South Cheshire Show

 

Breeders and cattle enthusiasts from all over the country will descend on Nantwich for one of the key events in the agricultural calendar this summer.

The annual National Brown Swiss Cattle Society Showcase comes to the Nantwich and South Cheshire Show on Wednesday, July 27 where competitors will battle it out for the coveted Cimarron Perpetual Bell awarded to the breed champion.

This year the society has further extended its overseas contacts both with regards to breed development and knowledge. The judge, Dr Anton Smit, a vet and breeder from South Africa, is looking forward to seeing the high quality of cattle on offer in the United Kingdom.

He said: “It is an honour to be invited to judge the breed in a country where the Brown Swiss are now becoming established as a mainstream breed.

“In South Africa the breed has proved very popular over recent years, as they have shown to be extremely adaptable milking cattle capable of sustaining milk production in challenging environments without a large management input.”

The Nantwich and South Cheshire Show, also the home of the International Cheese Awards, gives the perfect backdrop for the Brown Swiss Showcase.

Adrian Lawrence, show secretary, said: “The breed is renowned for quality milk production with its high protein levels, in particular, the kappa casein proteins. Brown Swiss milk is much sought after by many of the country’s leading cheese makers.

“Anyone wishing to find out more about the breed will be more than welcome to meet with the members and breeders at the show. The Brown Swiss Cattle Society will have a stand at the event.”

Meanwhile, a record number of different breeds have been recorded for the show’s sheep section, with first-time appearances from the Kerry Hill, Soay and Manx Loughtan breeds.

Advance tickets are £13 (adults), £9 (senior citizens) £4 (juniors), £35 (family). Call 01270 537359 to order, entrance will be dearer on the day.

For more information, visit www.nantwichshow.co.uk

The Carrs Poop Scoop one, two, three

 

Cheshire East Council community wardens are urging dog owners to clean up after their dogs and help keep a popular Wilmslow parkland clean this summer. 

This campaign at The Carrs is being launched next week (from July 6). The wardens will hold the following planned events at the beauty spot:

● Wednesday, July 6 – Raising awareness about dog-related issues;

● Thursday, July 7 – High-visibility enforcement patrols;

● Friday, July 8 – Non-uniform enforcement patrols.

During the first day of the campaign, wardens will hand out free ‘poop scoop’ bags and urge all dog owners to be responsible.

During the next two days and for the rest of the summer, they will hand out their own special brand of cheery and polite enforcement to anybody failing to remove their dog’s waste responsibly. 

Every year, thousands of complaints are received by local authorities about dog mess littering parks, pavements and public spaces.

It is estimated that dog fouling costs councils £22m a year to clean up and it remains the country’s most complained about issue, according to local authorities and MPs.

Councillor Leslie Smetham, Cabinet support member for sustainable communities, said: “Cheshire East Council believes every dog owner has a responsibility to clean up after their pet.

“This campaign aims to raise awareness of this issue and encourage the minority of irresponsible dog owners to do their duty and make public spaces cleaner and more pleasant for everyone.

“Dog waste is not only extremely unpleasant and unwelcome, it is also the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other forms of infection, which can lead to serious illnesses.”

Councillor Peter Hayes, Cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: “I fully support this campaign which will raise awareness of the need for dog-owners to act responsibly.  This campaign is aimed at ensuring that our public spaces are both cleaner and safer.”

Failure to clean up after your dog is an offence and could result in a fixed penalty notice of £50. Failure to pay the fine can result in the owner being prosecuted and receiving a fine of up to £1,000.

Local ward Councillor Don Stockton said: “I applaud this initiative and hope it will encourage dog owners to be more responsible and considerate so we can all enjoy our local amenities.”

Starquest 2011

 

Crewe’s Queens Park will once again play host to the town’s very own talent show.

Starquest returns to the park on Sunday, July 10, in partnership with CAT fm and the Crewe and Nantwich Lions Association.

Last year’s winner was Gabrielle Smith, 16, who stunned the crowd with her singing performance of Tiffany Taylor’s ‘Here’s where I stand’.

However, it’s not just a singing competition, Starquest is open to people with a variety of talents.

Entrants should arrive at Queens Park by 2pm to book in and select their song. Performers can also use their own CD backing track. A category has been added this year to accommodate local dance performers.

All of the finalists will appear at the Queens Park re-opening event, in September, where they will be competing for £360 in cash prizes.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “The competition promises to be a fun day out for all the family and I am confident that Cheshire East has plenty of stars just waiting to be discovered.

“Queens Park is undergoing massive improvements as part of its restoration programme and will make an ideal venue for the contest.”

Councillor Michelle Sherratt, ward member for Crewe West, said: “I would encourage everyone to come out and support this event which has a proud history in Crewe.

“Hopefully the weather will be nice and there’ll be good turnout for this year’s Starquest contest.”

To find out more about the Queens Park events programme by telephoning the Queens Park Manager on 01270 537896 or visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk and follow the link to the Queens Park pages.

Crewe Area Assembly

 

Residents of Crewe are being invited to have their say on the future of towns and villages in the area.

The Crewe Area Assembly is being held on Monday, July 11, at The Alexandra Stadium from 6pm – 8pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The assembly will form an important part of the second stage of consultation on the Local Development Framework, or Place Shaping consultation. Through this consultation, the Council will work with local communities, businesses and stakeholders to understand the challenges facing each town or village and to draw up a plan for the community.

This consultation will look at the issues affecting towns and villages, before going on to look at the opportunities for development, protection and improvement.

The assembly will be the perfect opportunity for residents to have their say, and take part in discussion workshops.

Subject planned for the meeting include:

• All Change for Crewe presentation – the new and ambitious strategy to support Crewe’s economic development over the next 20 years;
• Place Shaping consultation – have your say on what you want your town or village to be like in 2030;
• Information Village – browse displays of various businesses, training and work support organisations; and
• Multi agency drop in – highlight concerns and issues in your neighbourhood.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said: “I would encourage as many people as possible to attend the meeting and have their say on the future of their communities.

“This plan will determine our development over the next 20 years so it is vital that we have as much public input as possible.”

To view the consultation documents and have your say go to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf