Crewe News: September 2011

Tuesday, 27 September 2011

Medical Services in Crewe

Last week we attended Leighton Hospital A&E for treatment to a badly cut arm. We arrived at 5:45 and we were seen by a triage nurse who put a temp bandage on. The A&E was not buzzy but there was a man shouting all the time Kill the Polish and the few people that were there found it frightening but no one tried to stop this racist remarks even though security was sitting there.

We sate there for over 2 hours with no one going in for treatment we could see. After two hours they put on stera strips and bandaged the hand 3 mins it took them. So why a two hour wait when we say the nurse sitting down doing nothing for most of that time. We were told to report to the nurse at the local doctors within 3 days for her to check for infections and re dress the wound.

We then went to our doctors at Grosvenor Medical Centre to have the wound checked and we were told we could only get an appointment to see the nurse in 8 days so if the wound was infected the patients arm could suffer as a result. Apparently the Grosvenor Medical Centre have staff off and the other nurses are doing flu jabs and leaving normal patients to suffer and possibly die as a result of the lack of medical care. As to check this patient is only 3 mins I find it hard to believe that someone could check this no matter how buzzy they are and this services is unsatisfactory. If you have bad experience please let us know.

Mp’s Bulletin 95

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 95th electronic news bulletin.

Italy's credit rating downgrade shows the danger faced by countries that can't pay their way in the world.

What started as a debt crisis in the banking sector in 2008 has now turned into a wider crisis of sovereign, banking and private sector debt. We need a much better international response. The agenda for coordinated global action should be clear - deal with the debts, sort out the banks, become more productive and free up trade.

A successful euro is massively in our interest. So we are looking for Eurozone countries to send a clear signal that they truly recognise the gravity of the situation and are dealing with it. Crucially, the Eurozone countries need to accept the remorseless logic of monetary union that leads from a single currency to greater fiscal integration.

We are not immune to what is going on at our doorstep, but we are confident that we can weather this storm. We had an Emergency Budget last summer on our own terms, not this summer on the market's terms. That decisive action put us ahead of the curve, delivering record low interest rates, protecting our credit rating, and giving us stability when many countries have none.

Crewe and Nantwich has demonstrated that we are fighting fit economically with new jobs created through the relocation of Expert Logistics, the launch of local businesses or SMEs like At One as well as the continued recognition and recovery of companies such as Bentley who were visited by the Minister for Energy and myself last week. This can only help boost local business confidence, one of the key elements to helping drive growth.

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

I have recently ...

Held a surgery in my Crewe office
Opened this year's Nantwich Food Festival
Held an 'On Your Street' session bringing my surgery to your doorstep
Presented this year's Achievement Awards to staff at Bentley
Handed over a cheque to Parkinsons Crewe for in excess of £1000 which I raised in sponsorship from the 2011 London Marathon
Supported local businesses at the Celebrate Cheshire event showcasing what the region has to offer
Attended the Shavington School Open Day. The school has recently been quoted as being the ‘Most Improved School in Cheshire East 2011’.
Opened Wychwood Village Hall, Wychwood Park, and thanked those people who've helped make the Village Hall happen
Rewarded children who took part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge with medals and certificates in special ceremonies at the Nantwich Library
Attended the Malbank School Olympic Boulevard Opening Ceremony

Photos & Video ...

Edward donating £1,111.39 to Crewe Parkinson's which he raised by running the 2011 London Marathon

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

Petitions

To sign Edward's Welfare Petition click here

To Sign Edward's Immigration Petition click here

Community News

Dog Walkers Facility at the Georges Community Centre

On Saturday 3rd September I attended the re-opening of the Marshfield Bank Community Centre, now named the Georges Community Centre. The Georges is now run by Big Society Works Ltd, a local steering group and the wider Crewe community. The re-launch has already been a great success raising over £1500 for the Centre, securing many more volunteers and further engaging the local community. Email the Centre here

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

Expert Logistics announces plans to bring 350 jobs to Crewe

Crewe Chronicle

UP TO 350 jobs will be coming to Crewe when home delivery firm Expert Logisitics relocates to the town.

The company, which is owned by DRL, specialises in white goods distribution and handles deliveries for DRL online brands – Appliances Online and Appliance Deals – as well as high street giants such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Argos.

It will be based at the 360,000 sq ft Prologis warehouse development on Weston Road.

Expert Logisitics managing director Dave Ashwell said: “The company is currently operating from a number of smaller buildings, so the move to Crewe 360 will allow us to consolidate our distribution operations under one roof. This building is ideally suited to our business, since it gives us immediate access to the motorway network and its environmental credentials mean that it will be cost effective to run.”

The news has been welcomed by Cheshire East Council leader Wesley Fitzgerald.

“There is immense satisfaction in playing a role to help businesses to thrive and expand and Cheshire East’s role in facilitating this move is no exception,” said Cllr Fitzgerald.

“I would also like to thank Jobcentre Plus, which has provided significant support to facilitate the relocation. Expert Logistics will bring vibrancy to the area and will undoubtedly add to the rich tapestry of businesses in the area. The significant boost that this move has brought for All Change for Crewe is momentous and gives us fantastic momentum to market the area with growing confidence.”

Cllr Jamie Macrae, cabinet member for responsibility for economic development, said: “Expert Logistics relocation is a major step in realising the extensive development opportunities that exist in Crewe, including such sites as Basford. ”

He added the short-term lease negotiated with the company for the former Royal Mail site to support the transition process was a factor in its decision to relocate.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson said: “This is an exciting development for Crewe and a landmark event in bringing the All Change for Crewe vision to life.

“Crewe can offer massive potential for any expanding business and I am sure that Expert Logistics will go from strength to strength. By the very nature of its business, Crewe’s name will be showcased throughout the nation.

“I’m also delighted that Expert Logistics will be bringing some 350 jobs to our area.”

Boost For Crewe's Economy

Crewe & Nantwich Guardian

CREWE has received an economic boost with news that national firm Expert Logistics is relocating to the town, creating 350 jobs.

This rapidly-expanding business has thrived and expanded throughout the recession and now has chosen to relocate to Crewe, as part of its future growth plans.

Acquired by DRL in 2009, Expert Logistics is a specialist white goods distribution company that handles deliveries for DRL online brands – Appliances Online and Appliance Deals – as well as high street giants such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Argos.

Managing director Dave Ashwell said: “The company is currently operating from a number of smaller buildings, so the move to Crewe 360 will allow us to consolidate our distribution operations under one roof. "This building is ideally suited to our business, since it gives us immediate access to the motorway network and its environmental credentials mean that it will be cost effective to run.”

Council bosses said the relocation to the 360,000sq ft Prologis warehouse development on Weston Road demonstrates the confidence these ‘major players’ have in Crewe as a contender in the economic future of the north west.

Prologis senior vice president Alan Sarjant said: “With this agreement, we’ve almost completed the lease-up of our development portfolio in the UK.

"Because we understand our customers’ needs, we were able to provide Expert Logistics with a building that is ready to occupy.”

Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald, leader of Cheshire East Council, added: “There is immense satisfaction in playing a role to help businesses to thrive and expand and Cheshire East’s role in facilitating this move is no exception.

“I would also like to thank Jobcentre Plus, which has provided significant support to facilitate the relocation.

"Expert Logistics will bring vibrancy to the area and will undoubtedly add to the rich tapestry of businesses in the area.

“The significant boost that this move has brought for All Change for Crewe is momentous and gives us fantastic momentum to market the area with growing confidence.”

Councillor Michael Jones said: "This is outstanding news.

"Our announcement today gives further visible and tangible evidence of the Council’s commitment to the sustainable economic development of Crewe.

“It is heartening that the confident speculation displayed by Prologis has clearly borne fruit, with such a prestigious firm as Expert Logistics choosing to relocate to their development in Crewe.”

Edward Timpson MP added: "This is an exciting development for Crewe and a landmark event in bringing the All Change for Crewe vision to life.

"Crewe can offer massive potential for any expanding business and I am sure that Expert Logistics will go from strength to strength.

"By the very nature of its business, Crewe’s name will be showcased throughout the nation.

“I am also delighted that Expert Logistics will be bringing some 350 jobs to our area.”

The All Change for Crewe concordat was signed last November.

Councillor Jamie Macrae said: “Expert Logistics relocation is a major step in realising the extensive development opportunities that exist in Crewe, including such sites as Basford. "This is demonstrable and visible confirmation that we are actively achieving the ambition set out in All Change for Crewe.”

In addition, the short-term lease negotiated with Expert Logistics for the former Royal Mail site, to support the investment and transition process, was an important factor in its decision to relocate.

New Crewe marketing agency is At One with success

Crewe Chronicle
NEW Crewe marketing agency is looking pretty in pink and hoping to create new jobs.

At One Communications, formerly Crewe’s long established Prontaprint, has changed its name and given itself a pink vibe to help attract a greater spread of marketing, design and print business.

At One is now keen to hear from young designers wanting a career in creating digital marketing solutions for businesses across the South Cheshire area.

Managing director Victoria Sugden said: “As Prontaprint, people felt we just printed things quickly.

“Yet there is so much more our team can offer and we’ve got lots of exciting plans for the future.

“We intend to combine our traditional design and print business with innovative digital marketing services such as e-shots, websites and event management.”

It was officially launched by Edward Timpson MP on Friday, September 9.

Mr Timpson said: “It’s a pleasure to support a successful local business that is as creative and dynamic as At One.

“Businesses like At One are crucial to the strength of our local economy and hence I’m particularly impressed by their efforts to encourage and help young people interested in pursuing a career in design.”

At One is preparing to launch its Home of Stationery website www. homeofstationery.com for customers to upload their own pictures and create personal print items including poster size prints, canvasses and calendars, invitations and cards.

Mrs Sugden added: “With the launch of the new At One brand name and introducing a new customer ordering website, we’ll be able to deal with customers from right across the UK.”

For more call 01270 2502602 or email sales@atonecom.co.uk.

Energy Minister Visits Crewe

Crewe & Nantwich Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson accompanied energy minister Charles Hendry on a tour of Bentley Motors this week.

They were given a factory tour by Andy Robertson, production planning manager, so that they could witness the efforts Bentley are making to ensure their cars are produced in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

Mr Timpson said: “Bentley is an extremely important employer in Crewe and Nantwich and we are very lucky to have a great company producing such high-tech quality products here.

“I believe this fact is recognised by the minister’s visit.

“It is essential that we support businesses who strive to stay ahead of the environmental and technological curve thereby protecting local jobs.”

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

There’s still time to ‘have your say’ – and help shape the future of our towns and villages

Don’t miss your chance to have your say on helping to shape the future of our towns and villages. That’s the message from Cheshire East Council.

The authority is nearing the end of a period of public engagement on the Local Development Framework, called the ‘Place Shaping’ consultation.

But you can still get your voice heard – by completing a questionnaire by the deadline of September 30.

The Council’s spatial planning team has been working closely with the people of Cheshire East since July – to find out how people think our towns and villages should look in the future.

This process included a series of public engagement exhibitions and events across the Borough, which aimed to get people’s views on issues such as identifying sites for housing, employment development, shops, cycle routes, recreation facilities and protection of open spaces.

The consultation exhibitions have now come to an end – but there are still a few days left for people to tell the Council how they would like to see their town or village take shape in the future. If you’ve not yet filled in a questionnaire, why not complete one online?

This is your chance to have your say – and Cheshire East wants to hear from you.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity said: “The deadline is fast approaching – but there is still time for people to have their say on shaping the future of their communities.

“I would encourage all residents – and particularly younger people – to take the time to get involved and fill in the Place Shaping questionnaire.

“It is vitally important that we have as much input from local people as possible as the final plan will determine development in Cheshire East over the next 20 years.”

There are several ways and places you can fill in the questionnaire:

● Complete the questionnaire online at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ldf

● Print a copy of the questionnaire and return it using the freepost address;

● Pick up a copy at your local library or Cheshire East Council customer service point and return it using the freepost address at: Freepost RSRX-YYYE-AYRS, Spatial Planning, Cheshire East Council, Westfields, Middlewich Road, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1HZ; or

● Use touch-screen computers at Macclesfield Customer Service Centre or Crewe Customer Service Centre.

Cheshire East is very keen to hear your opinions, so please take the time to complete the questionnaire. You can also email the team at: ldfconsultation@cheshireeast.gov.uk

The next stage of the process will look at the options for the plan for each town and village. From this, a strategy for each place will be produced and the proposals will be incorporated into the Local Development Framework Core Strategy and Site Allocations documents.

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

Cheshire East gives fresh boost to school meals and local food suppliers

Cheshire East Council has given a fresh boost to school meals and local food producers and suppliers.

Currently the meat for school dinners provided by the authority’s catering service is brought in frozen from a national supplier.

But, from October 1, this will gradually be replaced with fresh meat supplied by three Cheshire businesses and one out-of-county firm which supplies locally.

The firms are: Barrows Butcher, of Bollington; Littlers Butchers, of Northwich; Steve Brookes Quality Cuts, of Sandbach; and Browns Food Service, of Rugby, Warwickshire.

The 121 primary and 13 secondary schools that are served by Cheshire East catering will receive deliveries of fresh meat – much of it produced locally – twice a week under the new contracts.

Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services, said: “This is good news for all concerned – for youngsters who enjoy our healthy and nutritious school meals and for our local butchers and food producers.

“The Council’s catering service is always striving to improve its standards of nutrition and provision as part of our commitment to helping improve the health and life opportunities of everyone in Cheshire East.

“I am delighted that we are further increasing the use of local fresh produce in our excellent school meals, which offer real value for money.”

Before the meat supply contracts were put out to tender, the Council ran a successful pilot project with Steve Brookes butchers supplying 11 local schools.

This was followed up with a ‘buyers day’ event in June to drum up interest in the tender process and to find out how to make it as simple as possible for potential suppliers to apply.

Cheshire East Council’s catering service was recently awarded the Soil Association’s ‘Food for Life Catering Mark’ bronze award.

One of the changes the service has made to help them gain the award is extending the use of ‘Farm Assured’ meat. Farm Assurance is a voluntary scheme which establishes production standards covering matters including food safety, environmental protection and animal welfare.

The bronze award requires that 75 per cent of meals on the menu are home made and that specific additives and colourings are not used. Another requirement is to include seasonal fruit and vegetables on the menu.

The service is also working in partnership with the NHS 5-a-day and Change4life campaigns to encourage people to eat more fruit and vegetables and have a healthier, more-active lifestyle.

Cheshire East’s catering service’s fruit and vegetable supplier sources as many products as possible from the north west and Britain.

Crime

Since the 11^th September we have had three burglaries reported to us in the Sandbach area, these have been on Mortimer Drive, Middlewich Road, and Manifold Close.
The burglaries have all happened in a similar manor – a panel on the door has been removed to gain entry.

There does not seem to be any specific trend to them and we have also had similar burglaries in the Crewe, Holmes Chapel and Middlewich areas. There is not a massive increase in burglaries that are occurring in Cheshire and infact burglary has fallen by nearly 60% nationally since 1995. In Cheshire, burglaries have dropped by 12.9% in the last five years, which means there are now 592 fewer victims of burglary a year than in 2005.

The county also has a crime rate which is below national average. While this is good reason for you to feel secure in your home, you should remain aware that criminals are opportunists who will take advantage of any chance to steal from you.

One of the best deterrents to burglary is somebody being in the house. Even if there isn’t anybody at home, there are lots of things you can do to give the impression that the house is occupied. Draw the curtains and leave a light on in the house when you go out in the evening.

If you are leaving the house unoccupied for longer, install timers which switch lights or radios on and off automatically. Make sure that milk bottles and parcels are not left on the doorstep, and that letters and newspapers are not left in the letterbox. Ask a neighbour or relative to regularly clear the doorstop and letterbox. You could also encourage someone to park on your drive while you are away.

Other points to take inconsideration is:

· Keep your valuables out of sight.

· Make your property unappealing – install security lights and burglar alarm.

· Mark all valuable property with UV marker pens.

· Keep photographs of any valuable items.

· Always lock doors and accessible windows.

· Do not leave ladders outside where they could be used to reach upstairs windows.

· Don’t label your house keys with your address.

Residents only parking plan welcomed

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor Brian Silvester has welcomed the progress he has been able to achieve on the need for 'residents only' parking in Gladstone Street in Willaston.

He said: “Cheshire East Council have confirmed to me that a scheme should be in place before the end of the year. Gladstone Street is a small cul de sac in the centre of Willaston and residents have been trying for years to get restricted parking introduced. They wanted it because the parking spaces in front of their houses are continually being used by motorists who do not live in the street. I really do sympathise with the residents who have had to put up with this gross inconvenience for far too long. I have been supporting their calls for several years and I am very pleased that progress has been made at long last. I would like to thank Cheshire East Council for the action that is being taken."

Brian Silvester

Tel/fax 01270 567757

Cheshire East celebrates achievements of Care4CE staff

Social care staff at Cheshire East Council who support vulnerable adults are celebrating after picking up several awards.

Care4CE hosted its Recognition of Achievement Awards presentation at the Municipal Buildings in Crewe where more than 60 people received their certificates from Councillor Roland Domleo, Cabinet member with responsibility for adult social care services.

Staff members were successful in achieving NVQs in health and social care and in leadership and management.

Other qualifications attained included diplomas for business-improvement techniques and environmental best practice, an honours degree in social work studies and City and Guilds qualifications for training skills.

Marion Goddard, Care4CE service manager, was given a special recognition of achievement award for her outstanding contribution to the service on what was her retirement day. A further 50 staff have also gained awards but could not be present at the ceremony.

Sandra Shorter, the Head of Care4CE, gave a welcome speech and Lorraine Butcher, Strategic director for children, families and adults, spoke to acknowledge the achievements of staff.

Councillor Olivia Hunter, Cabinet support member with responsibility for adult services, said: “May I take this opportunity to congratulate our Care4CE staff who have worked very hard to achieve their respective awards.

“The Council attaches great importance to having well-trained and qualified staff to ensure that it can continue to support vulnerable adults in the community and improve life opportunities and health for everybody in Cheshire East.”

Massive boost for Crewe’s economy

All Change for Crewe has received a massive economic boost with the announcement by Cheshire East Council that nationally-renowned logistics firm Expert Logistics is relocating to the town.

This highly-successful and rapidly-expanding business has thrived and expanded throughout the recession and now has chosen to relocate to Crewe, as part of its future growth plans.

Managing director of Expert Logistics Dave Ashwell said: “The company is currently operating from a number of smaller buildings, so the move to Crewe 360 will allow us to consolidate our distribution operations under one roof. This building is ideally suited to our business, since it gives us immediate access to the motorway network and its environmental credentials mean that it will be cost effective to run.”

The relocation to the 360,000sq ft Prologis warehouse development, on Weston Road, clearly demonstrates the confidence these ‘major players’ have in Crewe as a major contender in the economic future of not only Cheshire East but also that of the whole of the north west.

Prologis senior vice president Alan Sarjant, commenting on the deal, said: “With this agreement, we’ve almost completed the lease-up of our development portfolio in the UK. Because we understand our customers’ needs, we were able to provide Expert Logistics with a building that is ready to occupy.”

Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald, Leader of Cheshire East Council, endorsed all these comments and added: “There is immense satisfaction in playing a role to help businesses to thrive and expand and Cheshire East’s role in facilitating this move is no exception.

“The significant boost that this move has brought for All Change for Crewe is momentous and gives us fantastic momentum to market the area with growing confidence.”

Councillor Michael Jones, Cabinet member with responsibility for resources, welcomed the move. He said: “This is outstanding news. Our announcement today gives further visible and tangible evidence of the Council’s commitment to the sustainable economic development of Crewe.

Edward Timpson MP, a leading advocate for All Change for Crewe, echoed the deserved congratulations.

He said: “This is an exciting development for Crewe and a landmark event in bringing the All Change for Crewe vision to life. Crewe can offer massive potential for any expanding business and I am sure that Expert Logistics will go from strength to strength. By the very nature of its business, Crewe’s name will be showcased throughout the nation.

“I am also delighted that Expert Logistics will be bringing some 350 jobs to our area.”

Cheshire East Council has already put massive commitment into the regeneration of many town centres across Cheshire East, with the All Change for Crewe Concordat signed last November.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cabinet member with lead responsibility for economic development and regeneration, added: “Expert Logistics relocation is a major step in realising the extensive development opportunities that exist in Crewe, including such sites as Basford. This is demonstrable and visible confirmation that we are actively achieving the ambition set out in All Change for Crewe.”

Saturday, 17 September 2011

How did they steal that?

Take a look at the picture above from Oxford St can you see whats missing? During the night thieves climbed up onto the roofs and stole the lead not from one but lots of the flats. The roof is inchs from the main rooms

We have received some information from Staffordshire Police warning of bogus callers that they have been having within their force. They have been operating near to Mow Cop and there is concerns that they have started to cross the border into Cheshire. They have been described as 3 Asian males driving a dark blue Audi - they have been stating that they are there dealing with a water leak but it is not known whether they are stating that they are from the waterboard. We are letting you know this information so that we can a warning out before we start to have any problems.

HOLMES CHAPEL - Detectives investigating three burglaries in Holmes Chapel are appealing for witnesses.

Sometime between 6pm and 9pm on Friday 9th September 2011 two houses in Middlewich Road and one in Westmorland Terrace were targeted by thieves.

The offenders broke into the properties and escaped with jewellery and electrical items.

We would appeal to anyone who saw people or vehicles acting suspiciously in the area at the time to contact Crewe burglary unit on 0845 458 0000. Alternatively information can be given anonymously on the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

- DS Glyn Leech

Holmes Chapel is fortunate in that we don't suffer from many domestic burglaries however resident should always be vigilant and look out for neighbours.

If you're going away ask a neighbour you know well to keep an eye on your property.

CREWE - Date of Incident: 11.30pm on 2nd September 2011
Location of incident: Market Street, Crewe

Crewe detectives are investigating a robbery which happened in Market Street, Crewe on Friday 2nd September 2011 at 11.30pm.

The victim was leaving the Imperial Pub and walked up Edleston Road onto Market Street. After crossing Chester Street he encountered a group of three men and a woman next to the Natwest Bank.

Two men from the group punched the victim in the head knocking him to the ground. They then kicked and punched him while he was on the floor. They stole his white Alcatel QT710 mobile phone from his trouser pocket before walking off towards Edleston Road.

The victim suffered grazes and bruising to his body and bruising to his head.

One of the men is described as white, 5ft 8, around 25 and of stocky build. He was wearing a light coloured jacket.

The other man was described as being a white, 5ft 8, 25 and of skinny build. He was wearing light coloured clothing.

The woman is described as white, in her early 20s and of average build with long blonde hair in a pony tail. She was wearing a light coloured jacket.

Anyone with information should contact PC Paul Myatt at Crewe CID on 0845 458 0000 quoting incident number 17 of 2nd September 2011. Alternatively information can be given anonymously on the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

NEW STREET SIGNS WILL PREVENT CONFUSION

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor Brian Silvester has welcomed the news that new street signs are to be erected for The Fields, off Cheerbrook Road in Willaston ( See below)

He said,"There have had repeated problems with the none collection of the bins in the cul de sac, The Fields. The street signs at the junction with Cheerbrook Road are vey old, dilapidated and not vey clear to see. I am very pleased that the Cheshire East Council has responded positively to my request to replace the signs. I am also pleased that the worn signage on Cheerbrook Road (at the junction with Wistaston Road) is to be replaced."

Further to my press release below the Headteacher has put the following statement in the latest newsletter for parents. (attached)

'Parking

Laidon Avenue is extremely busy at the beginning and end of the day and parents are asked not to park in the school parking places or opposite the zig-zag safety markers nor to turn vehicles or drop children in the school car park entrance. Parking continues to be a difficult situation for the school and its neighbours and could I therefore remind parents to respect the areas surrounding the school and not to park in front of driveways or on pavements in the roads close to the school. Will you please ensure that minders or grandparents who may also be collecting children from school are aware of this. Additionally the area around Beechcroft Avenue and Lochleven Road becomes very congested and parents are requested to park and drive with consideration for our neighbours and other road users. I have recently received a letter from a local councillor who has been contacted by residents of Lochleven road expressing their concern about this issue. The police have been informed and will be patrolling the area. Please do not park near the top of Ropebank Avenue. You may prefer to park slightly further away from school to try and minimise the congestion.'

I welcome the action the school has taken and hope that the small minority of parents who park irresponsibly will take the advice on board and will park sensibly in future to prevent congestion and possible accidents and stop the inconvenience to nearby residents caused by the inconsiderate parking.

With best wishes,

Brian Silvester

Cllr Brian Silvester BA (Hons)
Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor

Tel/fax 01270 567757

PRESS RELEASE

Call for action on parking problems at Berkeley Primary School, Rope

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor Brian Silvester is calling on the small minority of parents who park inconsiderately around the Berkeley Primary School in Rope to park more sensibly. He said," There are serious parking problems at the beginning and the end of the school day at the top of Lochleven Road and Rope Bank Avenue at the junction with Laidon Ave. Parents dropping off and picking up at the school park at the junctions which makes it very difficult for vehicles to pull out safely. Also some parents park in front of drives and this makes it impossible for residents to get their cars out. I have written to the Police and the School (see below) to ask them to take action at the beginning of term to nip this problem in the bud. Local residents are rightly angry at the careless parking of a small minority of parents and I hope the action that is being taken will solve the problem to a large degree."

Youngsters showcase their talents at Lyceum’s 100th birthday bash

Cheshire East youngsters have showcased their talents at a vibrant event to celebrate the 100th birthday of Crewe’s Lyceum Theatre.

Cheshire East Youth Theatre (CEYT) marked the centenary with a colourful and unusual performance of Cinderella at the historic venue.

The show, titled ‘Inside Out’, was created in just one week and gave the audience an insight into the process of staging a show and what goes on behind the scenes. It was also the first time that youngsters from all six groups that make up CEYT had performed together on stage.

The audience saw filmed footage of cast interviews and mock auditions, as well as witnessing the drama of Cinderella unfold on stage.

A total of 36 youngsters, aged from five to 16, grabbed the memorable opportunity to perform at the Lyceum – and for some it was their first time treading the boards.

Cheshire East Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and family services, said: “This is a vibrant and talented youth theatre group and the celebration at the Lyceum was an excellent opportunity for its young members to showcase their talents and hard work – as well as celebrate the Lyceum’s centenary.

“Youth theatre is a fantastic opportunity for our young people to learn a range of skills that will stand them in good stead throughout their lives. It is also a superb place for young people to develop their confidence and a genuinely life-enriching experience for all who take part.”

Among those who attended the show, on September 9, were: Cheshire East Council’s strategic director for children, families and adults Lorraine Butcher; arts, heritage and museums manager Helen Paton; Crewe Mayor and Cheshire East Councillor Roy Cartlidge; Councillor John Hammond; and Councillor Laura Jeuda.

Councillor Irene Faseyi, who represents Crewe Central ward, said of the event: “It is wonderful to see so many talented young people putting on an impressive show to mark the Lyceum’s centenary. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in this fantastic event.”

CEYT, which is organised by Cheshire East Council and based at the Lyceum, is for young people aged five to 18. It recently branched out to create two new youth theatre groups in Alsager and Sandbach.

CEYT is made up of six groups. Lyceum Youth Theatre has four age groups: five to seven; eight to 10; 11 to 13; and 14 to 18, based in the theatre’s rehearsal room. Alsager Youth Theatre, based in Alsager Community Church Hall, and Sandbach Youth Theatre, based in Sandbach Town Hall, are both for youngsters aged seven to 11. New groups will be opening during the next term.

The youth theatres are run by professional drama workers and the groups help young people build a range of theatre skills including improvisation, voice and speech, characterisation and movement. The experience also teaches youngsters how to work effectively as a team, develop communication skills and build self confidence.

Members get the chance to attend workshops and tread the boards of Crewe’s Lyceum stage, as well as perform at other local venues and regional festivals. No previous experience is necessary and there are no auditions needed.

Anyone interested in joining Cheshire East Youth Theatre should ring co-ordinator Hayley Lindley on 07709180296 or email her at: ceyt@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Saturday, 3 September 2011

Celebrate Crewe’s heritage with double-header

A unique chance to celebrate Crewe’s heritage is on offer with a magnificent double-header next week.

The grand re-opening of Queens Park, which has successfully undergone a £6.5m overhaul, and the Lyceum Theatre’s 100^th birthday are two huge occasions for the town and they both take place between September 5 and 10.

Lyceum Theatre

Following the launch of the heritage exhibition at the Lyceum, the fun continues on Monday (September 5) with an evening of entertainment featuring Crewe Male Voice Choir, Masquerade School of Dancing and local talent such as Bethany Edwards, Dave Chesworth, Nichola Hodgkinson, Nicci Hicks and Don Reid.

This follows on Tuesday with Dance through the Years with the X Academy, The Good Olde Days Music Hall with Duggie Chapman MBE on Wednesday and an open heritage day with historian Stewart Green on Thursday.

It wraps up with Cheshire East Youth Theatre’s performance of Inside Out on Friday before a gala evening on Saturday, September 10, featuring Acton Operatic Society, Crewe Amateur Musicals Society and Yvonne’s School of Dance.

After both of these performances there will be a free laser light art work show in Market Square, hosted by the Illuminos Project. During this performance, the light show will be projected onto the front of the theatre building.

All Lyceum Theatre events, with the exception of the open heritage day, are £5 each. More information on English Heritage open days in the Crewe area is available at www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Queens Park

It is on Saturday that the Queens Park celebrations get into full swing.

A procession involving children in fancy dress from 11 Crewe schools will make its way from Pyms Lane, along Sunnybank Road, before travelling along Victoria Avenue to the park. It will be led by the Crewe Sea Cadets Corp Band, starting at 2.30pm.

Some of the highlights planned for the free event include:

Dance routines from local groups and troupe dancers;
Falconry displays;
A hilarious travelling theatre show;
Live bands
Play and sport development activities including Nordic walking;
Funfair;
The Heritage Centre miniature steam train;
Fancy dress;
Vintage machinery;
Charity stalls; and
The Starquest 2011 talent show finale.

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 3.30pm.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: “It is often said that Queens Park is Crewe’s ‘Jewel in the Crown’ and this is justifiably so. It is only right that we celebrate the excellent restoration work that has been carried out there.

“Together with the events being staged at the Lyceum Theatre, this is set to be a great week of celebrations and I would urge Crewe residents to come out and celebrate their heritage.”

Councillor Roy Cartlidge, ward member for Crewe St Barnabas and Crewe Mayor, said: “Queens Park is renowned as one of the finest parks in the North West, if not the whole of England. This traditional Victorian park has been restored and many modern day features have been added.

“Please come and join the fun on September 10, I am sure it will be a memorable day for everyone.”

Programmes are available form local information points in and around Crewe or by downloading it from www.cheshireeast.gov.uk. It can be located by typing ‘Queens Park official opening’ into the search box.

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