Police success

Stolen Pedal Cycles
Two males were arrested yesterday following a call from a Crewe Business man stating he believed the pedal cycles that were being brought in to exchange for cash were stolen. It is suspected that these males may be responsible for a number of pedal cycle thefts in the area.
Thefts from Motor Vehicles
Last week an operation was carried out using an unmarked vehicle to catch three local males who were believed to be involved in the recent spate of thefts from vehicles around Crewe. Within less than an hour the males were caught in the act and subsequently arrested.

Cheshire East Council invests in improving road safety

 

Cheshire East Council is embarking on an innovative hi-tech scheme to boost road safety.

The authority will replace traditional lights at all 117 of its traffic signal junctions and 32 pedestrian crossings across the Borough with new LED signals – which are brighter, more clearly visible to road users and longer-lasting.

The upgrade will greatly improve safety, reduce accidents and increase the reliability of the service to road users – eliminating the risk of ‘total failure’ of individual signals.

All this and it is also less expensive as well – saving £75,000 a year on running costs and maintenance.

Clusters of several dozen small, energy-efficient LEDs will replace single-filament bulbs.

Lamps in conventional traffic lights are changed every year. However, LEDs can last between seven and 10 years – thus saving up to nine maintenance visits over their lifetime.

The move will cut energy consumption at signals by over 75 per cent – thereby significantly reducing CO2 emissions and the Council’s electricity bill.

This major Cheshire East Highways work programme to replace more than 1,500 pedestrian and traffic signal heads will start on October 1. It is due to be completed by the end of the year.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet member in charge of highways services, said: “This is excellent news for all Cheshire East road users.

“Safer roads are a significant goal for the Council. This innovative use of technology will help deliver a far superior, safer, greener and more reliable service for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. It will also cost local taxpayers less to run and maintain.

“Using LEDs will cut CO2 emissions by 252 tonnes a year. This will contribute to Cheshire East Council’s commitment to reducing its carbon impact on the environment.”

Delays to the public will be minimised by not doing the work during the rush hours – unless absolutely necessary – avoiding school-run times and working at weekends on traffic-sensitive junctions.

Although some delays at signal-controlled junctions will be unavoidable, temporary traffic lights will be used to control traffic flows.

The upgrade work will cost up to £650,000 – but will be more than offset by saving the Council more than £750,000 in running costs and maintenance over the next 10 years. Each additional year will save Council taxpayers another £75,000.

An interest-free Government loan of £200,000 will also help fund the scheme – delivering even better value for money to Cheshire East Council Tax payers.

The LED scheme could also be extended to street lights on major junctions and roundabouts in the future.

Cheshire East Council already requires all new housing developments to have energy-efficient lamps, such as LED, as standard.

Further details of the junctions affected and the programme of works can be found on the Cheshire East Highways web site www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/roads

Tell Us Your Business Success Story

 

Has your business overcome the odds despite the choppy waters of the current economic climate?

Businesses, companies and organisations across west Cheshire can celebrate their success and tell the world why business is good for Britain as part of a new website launched by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

www.bccblog.co.uk wants to showcase the positive business news and success stories happening across west Cheshire every single day, as well as celebrate some of the unsung heroes. It aims to let businesses, working tirelessly to succeed in today’s economy, have their say.

Daniel Shires, Communications Manager for West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses across West Cheshire to showcase the good work they do every day, or to praise friends or partners whose efforts may be going unnoticed.

“BCC want the website to act as a conduit for businesses across the whole of Britain to let politicians, the media and the public know just what they do, what their story is, what makes them tick, and most importantly why they do it.”

Visit the web address www.bccblog.co.uk and get involved now.

www.wcnwchamber.org.uk

Twitter: @chamberwcnw

LinkedIn: http://linkd.in/chamberwcnw

Telephone: +44 (0) 1244 669988

Seventeen People Arrested By Titan Following Raids Across The North West

 

Officers from Titan, working alongside officers from Merseyside, Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester, have arrested 11 men and six women on suspicion of drugs, firearms and money laundering offences today (Thursday, 27 September 2012).

• A 44-year-old man from Banks has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, conspiracy to possess firearms, conspiracy to supply Class B drugs and for conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 35-year-old woman from Banks has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 35-year-old man from Banks has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and cultivation of Cannabis
• A 34-year-old man from Tarleton has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, conspiracy to possess firearms, conspiracy to supply Class B drugs and for conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 34-year-old woman from Tarleton has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 37-year-old man from Whiston has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs
• A 36-year-old woman from Whiston has been arrested on suspicion of possession of criminal property
• A 33-year-old man from Ormskirk has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 27-year-old woman from Ormskirk has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 33-year-old man from Formby has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs
• A 36-year-old man from Southport has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and conspiracy to possess firearms
• A 32-year-old man from Salford has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs
• A 60-year-old man from Widnes has been arrested on suspicion of cultivation of Cannabis and conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 49-year-old man from Widnes has been arrested on suspicion of cultivation of Cannabis
• A 47-year-old woman from Widnes has been arrested on suspicion of cultivation of Cannabis
• A 41-year-old woman from Kirkby has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property
• A 61-year-old man from Wigan has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to conceal criminal property

They have all been taken to police stations for questioning by detectives.

During the searches officers have seized a quantity of what it believed to be Class A drugs together with a drugs press, a number of rounds of ammunition, a large quantity of cash and jewellery, a number of high value vehicles and computer equipment.

Officers from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (Titan) have arrested 17 people on suspicion of drugs, firearms and money laundering offences today (Thursday, 27 September 2012).
Officers from Titan, helped by officers from Merseyside, Lancashire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester executed 19 search warrants across Formby, Southport, Kirkby,
Birkenhead, Walton, Banks, Tarleton, Ormskirk, Wigan,
Widnes and Salford following a lengthy investigation into serious and organised crime.
Eleven men and six women have been taken to police stations for questioning by detectives.
Detective Superintendent Jason Hudson from Titan said: "This operation demonstrates the ongoing commitment and dedication of Titan in tackling serious and organised crime across the North West.

"We appeal to anyone with any information relating to serious and organised crime in their area to contact police so we can take rigorous action against them."

During a search warrant executed in Salford officers discovered a number of rounds of ammunition and a smoke cannister that required the Explosive Ordinance Department (EOD) being called to make it safe.

Anyone with any information is asked to call their neighbourhood policing team on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Cheshire East Sports Awards

 

2012 has been a momentous year for sport – and now Cheshire East Council wants to hear about the Borough’s unsung sporting heroes.

The Council’s leisure and play department is holding its third annual sports awards at Cranage Hall on Thursday, November 29, and nominations are now open.

The awards seek to recognise the time and dedication put in by volunteers, coaches, clubs and athletes to develop sport across Cheshire East.

Categories for the awards are:

• Sport personality of the year;
• Club of the year;
• Coach of the year;
• Disability sports achiever;
• Special recognition;
• Volunteer of the year;
• Young sports achiever; and
• Young volunteer of the year.

The event also recognises the efforts of the Cheshire East leisure development volunteers – those who have clocked up 50 hours of volunteering will receive a certificate.

Nominations are open now and close on Friday, October 19, at 5pm.

You can download nomination forms by going online at: http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/leisure,_culture_and_tourism/leisure_development/sports_awards_2012.aspx

You can also receive one by emailing sportsawards@cheshireeast.gov.uk, or ringing 01625 373778.

BLUE BELL CREWE HOSTS ULTIMATE DRIVE EVENT

To mark the climax of the ultimate summer of celebration, Blue Bell Crewe invited its customers to enjoy the BMW Ultimate Drive Event on 22-23 September.

Following a summer of Jubilee, Olympic and Paralympic celebrations, in which BMW was proud to act as the Official Automotive Sponsor of London 2012, the team at Blue Bell Crewe opened its doors for a unique hospitality event.

The Blue Bell BMW Ultimate Drive Event not only celebrated “the greatest show on earth”, but also showcased the best of the best when it comes to performance, versatility and style.

The innovative BMW 3 Series Touring made its debut, and visitors also witnessed the new 7 Series model – the pinnacle of the BMW range combining sporting elegance and superb refinement with efficient, high performance engines.

The new BMW 1 Series 3-Door Sports Hatch, which sees the introduction of two new engines and an even sportier performance, and the new BMW X1 model were also on show for customers to enjoy.

Visitors to the Blue Bell Crewe showroom not only had the chance to enjoy this unprecedented selection of BMWs, but they were also in with a chance of winning one for every season! Attendees to the BMW Ultimate Drive Event were invited to enter the dealership’s free prize draw to win a different BMW every three months of the year; providing the winner with 12 months to discover exactly why BMW was chosen as the Official Automotive Partner to London 2012.

Throughout the London 2012 Olympic Games, Blue Bell Crewe was proud to sponsor Team GB swimmer and Olympic finalist, Fran Halsall, in an exclusive deal which saw the dealership assist her in meeting transportation needs for training, competitions and events.

Barry Holt, Dealer Principal at Blue Bell Crewe, comments: “It has been an incredibly exciting summer for everyone here at Blue Bell Crewe, and we were delighted to be able to invite our customers for one final celebration with the BMW Ultimate Drive Event. It provided a great opportunity for our customers to take a closer look at the quality, stylish and high performance models our extensive range has to offer.

“It was fantastic to be able to welcome our customers to enjoy our hospitality, and the event was a great success.”

For more information, please call 01270 212525, go to www.bluebellcrewebmw.co.uk, or visit the dealership at Blue Bell Crewe, Fourth Avenue, Weston Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6XH.

All Change for Crewe – work set to begin on £6m revitalisation of rail station

Work is due to start on the first phase of a £6m overhaul of Crewe Rail Station.

Cheshire East Council has appointed developer Mansell to do the work, which is due to be completed by spring 2014.

The scheme is central to Council-backed ambitious plans to regenerate and revitalise the town centre and surrounding area, including the rail station. This vision is called ‘All Change for Crewe’

The phase one of the overhaul of the station will include: a new surface-level car park with 240 spaces and 11 disabled bays; new pedestrian access from Weston Road; improved facilities for taxis; a new area for people to pick up and drop off family and friends; refurbishment of the existing subway to platforms; a new area for servicing vehicles to access the station; and a new commercial development site to provide a business opportunity next to the station.

The existing customer entrance on Nantwich Road will not close during the work and the taxi rank will still operate there as normal. The work will create dual access to the station at the upper and lower levels.

The scheme is a key part of a wider project to turn the historic site into an iconic 21st century gateway to the town and help unlock Crewe’s potential as an economic powerhouse by 2030.

The phase-one work has been made possible after a successful bid by Cheshire East Council, supported by Network Rail, for £6.177m from the Government’s £100m fund, called the Station Commercial Project Facility.

The work is due to start before Christmas and be completed within 14 months.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of prosperity and economic regeneration, said: “This is great news for Crewe and for Cheshire East. This work is a keystone of long-term regeneration to enhance the attractiveness of Crewe as a place to live, work and do business.

“There is still a lot of hard work to be done – and we will not be complacent – but winning funding and now starting this work is a massive vote of confidence in the station, the town and wider regeneration scheme.

“A revitalised rail hub is critical to boosting the town’s economy and its attractiveness to businesses and visitors.

“We will be having discussions with rail franchise holders First Group on how we can work towards realising our ambitions for phase two of the project.”

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson said: “I am delighted that All Change for Crewe is bringing about concrete results for the people of Crewe and Nantwich. Together with the funding for the Crewe Green Link Road we also managed to secure, we will start to see the much-needed infrastructure improvements to our local transport network realised.”

All Change for Crewe Partnership Board chairman John Lea, who is managing director of Mornflake Oats, said: “This long-overdue improvement to the major gateway into the town of Crewe is a very exciting development and will not only be of benefit to us all but will help to showcase the very best that Cheshire has to offer.”

For further information about All Change for Crewe, visit the Council’s website at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/crewerail

Celebrate Ageing Well International Older People's Day

 

A host of exciting events will take place to celebrate International Older People’s Day and ‘Ageing Well in Cheshire East’ on Monday (October 1).

These include:

· Age UK Cheshire East is inviting the over 50s to ‘try something new or see what they could do for you’ at its Health and Wellbeing Centre, at the junction of Crossall Street and Elizabeth Street, in Macclesfield, from 10am-1pm. The event will give people an opportunity to sample for free activities, including Zumba and pilates, run by AgeUK Cheshire East, as well as to gain free advice that may improve their financial and physical wellbeing. It also includes an art exhibition, drinks and cakes;

· A Cheshire Hidden Talent Event is being held by Plus Dane Group at 2pm, at Congleton New Life Church;

· An ‘Embracing the Older Population’ conference is taking place from 9.30am-3.30pm on October 2, at St Michael’s Church, Macclesfield, organised by the Go Project to look at ways to assist the elderly population;

· Two videos have been specially created about the issues older people in Cheshire East face on a day to day basis. These can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UGSh_W1C2s&feature=youtu.be, www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_UqZkSMYpI&feature=relmfu.

Speakers at the ‘Embracing the Older Population’ conference in Macclesfield will include Dame Jo Williams (chair of the Care Quality Commission), David Briggs (Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire), Councillor David Brown (Deputy Leader, Cheshire East Council), Councillor Janet Clowes (Cabinet Member, health and adult social care), Bernadette Bailey (Ageing Well Programme) and Rachel Zammit (St Luke’s Hospice). For more information, contact Carolyn McQuaker at the Go Project by ringing 01625 858210 or emailing:  enquiries@goproject.org.uk

The entrance fee is £10.

The Cheshire Hidden Talent Event (1 October) has been organised by Plus Dane Group and is open to both older and younger people. To book an audition or to find out more information, call Laura on 01260 288447 (leave a message if not answered) or email laura.mason@neighbourhoodinvestor.com

Tickets are available for the final from the New Life Church or from Plus Dane Group’s offices at Worrall Street, Congleton. To get a ticket you must donate a tin for the town’s Foodbank service, which distributes food to people and families struggling to make ends meet.

Cheshire East Council launched the Ageing Well Programme with the aim of bringing partners together to help make Cheshire East a good place to grow old.

These events have been organised as part of this. For more information visit Cheshire East Council’s website at: http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/social_care_and_health/health_advice/ageing_well.aspx

Tribute to John Jones

 

Cllr Brian Silvester has paid tribute to John Jones who died on the 24th of September. He said, "John was first elected on 3 May 2007 to the Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council. On 1 May 2008 he was elected to the Shadow Cheshire East Council for the Crewe North Ward  and went on to serve as a Cheshire East Councillor until 2011.

He was a big man with a big heart. He worked very hard for his constituents and he influenced the future direction of Crewe. In his professional life he had experience in the private sector, in running his own garage business and in the public sector as a teacher in the town. This wealth of experience was invaluable to his work as a Councillor and he used it to good effect in the debates in the Council Chamber and his contribution to the work of the Council. If John had been re-elected in 2011 he would have been the Deputy Mayor of Cheshire East but sadly that was not to be.

John was a Conservative Councillor who stood a number of times before he was finally elected in 2007, which showed his perseverance and persistence, which was a characteristic of his. He  was a strong supporter of Conservative values and was a former Chairman of the Crewe Conservatives

I would like to pass on my condolences and sympathy to his wife Kate, his family and his many friends,"

Boost to bid to deliver faster broadband speeds for all

 

Moves to roll-out superfast broadband across Cheshire have been given a major boost.

The Government has given the green light to enable a partnership of Cheshire Councils to move a step closer to being able to deliver high-speed internet services to its communities – to help create jobs and wealth.

It is estimated that faster broadband will boost the whole of Cheshire’s economy by £1.3 billion over the next 15 years and create around 11,000 jobs.

The news comes as a business group warned that economic development in rural areas is being put at risk because of failures to provide adequate access to the internet.

The Country Land and Business Association today (Monday, September 24) said up to a fifth of people in rural areas nationally still do not have adequate broadband services.

The Connecting Cheshire Partnership, comprising Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, Warrington and Halton Councils, has now been given Whitehall approval for progression to the ‘pre-procurement’ stage.

The partnership has so far received more than £3m in government funding for the roll-out of superfast broadband, but needs up to £40m in order for the project to reach 100 per cent coverage. In Cheshire East, up to 110,000 homes and businesses could miss out without this public investment.

Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK), the government’s authority for implementing superfast broadband carried out a comprehensive assurance process of the Connecting Cheshire project to ensure that it is ready to enter the next stage in the formal procurement process.

This will include the appointment of a telecommunications partner to provide superfast broadband networks where commercial roll-out has not been economically viable.

Council funding will be used to match Government funding of £3.24m already received to date, combined with an anticipated £15m a grant from the European Union to deploy new superfast broadband networks, from 2013, in areas where commercial providers have not yet upgraded the existing broadband infrastructure.

Connecting Cheshire expects to appoint either BT Openreach or Fujitsu as its partner next April, in line with a national procurement exercise overseen by BDUK.

The appointed telecom company will also provide matched funds bringing the Connecting Cheshire project total cost to around £39m. This combined investment is expected to ensure that the project will exceed the Government’s target of 90 per cent of homes and businesses being able to connect to superfast broadband by 2015.

Councillor David Brown, Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council and Cabinet member in charge of strategic communities, said: “This is particularly good news for our rural areas, which have been struggling with slow and unreliable speeds for some time.

“We are now much closer in our quest to ensure Cheshire can benefit both socially and economically from faster broadband speeds.

“As the Connecting Cheshire project moves into closer dialogue with telecom providers, it will be crucial to demonstrate a high level of demand. So I urge everyone to join our campaign for Better Broadband in Cheshire.

“Over 3,200 residents and 500 businesses have registered so far. This takes just a matter of minutes and will help ensure your community or businesses can be prioritised for investment in faster broadband. Simply register at www.connectingcheshire.org.uk”

Christine Gaskell, Chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Universal access to faster broadband has the potential to boost Cheshire’s economy by £1.3 billion over the next 15 years and create more than 11,000 jobs, so it’s essential we can do all we can to get everyone connected.

“Our small and medium-sized businesses will soon have the opportunity to use broadband to transform their operations – from video-conferencing in high definition to sending and receiving large amounts of data in seconds; superfast broadband will enable businesses to trade internationally more easily and streamline their business processes.”

‘Your Home, Your Employment, Your Transport – Your Local Plan’

CREWE

Future jobs, housing and transport in Crewe will be under the spotlight as part of the Local Plan Consultation, which runs until October 1.

This all-important document will decide future infrastructure and will probably be one of the biggest investments you’ll make this year for you, your children – and even your grandchildren.

The Local Plan will set out where future housing, jobs, roads, schools, leisure facilities, parks, green spaces, roads and much more will be developed – and residents are being urged to take part.

Crewe people have already taken part in a Place Shaping Consultation which has now helped to shape the draft Crewe Town Strategy Consultation, which residents will be commenting on until the beginning of next week. This will then feed into the final Cheshire East Local Plan, which lasts until 2030.

The draft strategy for Crewe proposes:

Jobs – by 2030, as a ‘gateway to the north’, Crewe will be a nationally-significant economic centre; one of the leading advanced engineering and manufacturing centres in England;

Housing – delivering 6,000-7,000 new homes by 2030. There is also the possibility of redeveloping the Mill Street area, linking the railway station and the town centre for predominantly residential properties;

Transport – to deliver improvements to the existing road network, including new cycle and pedestrian routes to enable more sustainable transport movements within and around the town; and

Environment – to have maintain green spaces surrounding the town and strong green gaps between the towns of Crewe, Nantwich and the villages of Haslington, Weston, Shavington, Wistaston and Willaston.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “Many people in the Borough have seen controversial site allocation outlines.

“Instead of opposing things, I want to hear people say what they support, what they want to see happen in their communities.

“I want their views so that we can get it right and, in order for that to happen, I genuinely need a robust consultation. The more people who participate, the better our Local Plan will be.”

To have your say on the Local Plan log on to: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/localplan or to find out more please visit facebook or twitter via our website.

Consultation documents are available at libraries in the six consultation towns which are: Crewe, Nantwich, Macclesfield, Knutsford, Poynton and Handforth.

The consultation runs until October 1, 2012.

NANTWICH

Future jobs, housing and transport in Nantwich will be under the spotlight as part of the Local Plan Consultation, which runs until October 1.

This all-important document will decide future infrastructure and will probably be one of the biggest investments you’ll make this year for you, your children – and even your grandchildren.

The Local Plan will set out where future housing, jobs, roads, schools, leisure facilities, parks, green spaces, roads and much more will be developed – and residents are being urged to take part.

Nantwich people have already taken part in a Place Shaping Consultation which has now helped to shape the draft Nantwich Town Strategy Consultation, which residents will be commenting on over the next week. This will then feed into the final Cheshire East Local Plan, which lasts until 2030.

The draft strategy for Nantwich proposes:

Jobs – provide increased employment opportunities. Encourage sustainable links to new and existing centres of employment in the surrounding area, particularly at Calveley, Wardle, Newhall, Reaseheath and Stapeley. Promote the town’s links to Crewe, which is a key employment centre and is likely to experience continued growth over the next 20 years;

Housing – deliver around 1,100 new homes by 2030, in addition to those sites which currently have planning permission and have been completed since 2010. Encourage residential use of upper floors in the town centre;

Transport – enhance the town’s public transport system. Introduce a car parking strategy. Investigate the feasibility of the completion of a bypass from the A500 to the A530 Whitchurch Road; and

Environment – support the sustainable redevelopment of the former gas works site on St Anne’s Lane, in line with its current allocation that promotes the site for such uses as housing; a hotel; leisure; car parking; religious uses; community uses; and offices.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “Many people in the Borough have seen controversial site allocation outlines.

“Instead of opposing things, I want to hear people say what they support, what they want to see happen in their communities.

“I want their views so that we can get it right and, in order for that to happen, I genuinely need a robust consultation. The more people who participate, the better our Local Plan will be.”

To have your say on the Local Plan log on to: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/localplan or to find out more please visit facebook or twitter via our website.

Consultation documents are available at libraries in the six consultation towns which are: Crewe, Nantwich, Macclesfield, Knutsford, Poynton and Handforth.

The consultation runs until October 1, 2012.

Find out how changes to welfare reform could affect YOU!

 

Cheshire East Council, working in partnership with local housing associations, is holding a series of drop-in sessions to let people know about the biggest shake-up to the benefit system for 60 years.

The Welfare Reform Act became law earlier this year as the Government aims to: create the right incentives to get more people into work; protect the most vulnerable in society; and make the benefit system fair for both claimants and the taxpayer.

The main changes are:

· Housing benefit, including new regulations in relation to under occupying within the social-rented sector and reductions in rates for under 35s residing in the private rented sector;

· Council Tax benefit is being replaced by a form of localised Council Tax support drawn up by individual councils;

· The introduction of a cap to the amount of benefits which can be received;

· The introduction of universal credit to provide a single streamlined payment; and

· Reforms to disability living allowance, through the introduction of the personal independence payment

A week-long programme of drop-in sessions will take place from October 8, where residents can find out more about the changes:

October 8                   Asda,Crewe                                                             2-5pm

October 9                  Congleton Library                                                     2-5pm

October 10                 Grosvenor Centre, Macclesfield                             2-5pm

October 11               Shaw Heath Social Club, Knutsford                      2-5pm

October 12                 Sports Pavilion, Lacey Green, Wilmslow                       2-5pm

People will be able to speak to representatives from registered housing providers, the Money Advice Service and council staff from the housing benefit and adult learning teams.

Councillor Janet Clowes, Cabinet member in charge of health and adult social care, said: “I would advise anyone who is of working age and claiming benefits to come along and find out how the changes could affect them.

“I cannot emphasise enough how significant these changes will be and the potential impact they may have. If people find out about the changes now they will be able to plan better for the future.”

Motorists advised to take care in adverse weather conditions

 

Emergency services are currently responding to pockets of disruption on the county′s road networks as a consequence of today′s adverse weather.

In the interests of the safety of motorists and the public, motorists are advised to only embark on journeys that are absolutely necessary.

Areas of Warrington and the outskirts of Chester, particularly the A56 and peripheral roads around Mickle Trafford, are affected.

Motorists are advised to tune into local radio for updates in relation to road closures and take extra care, to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for their journey whilst driving in the adverse weather conditions.

Police warning about PPI scam

 

Cheshire Police are warning local residents about a new scam that has already conned 10 people across the county.

Victims have lost a total of around £5,000 to the scam so far, with incidents reported in Macclesfield, Poynton, Winsford, Crewe, Sandbach, Northwich, Warrington and Chester.

The scammers will cold call their victim, taking their details and offering to enquire as to whether or not they are eligible for a refund on mis-sold Payment Protection Insurance (PPI).

The victim will then receive a call a few weeks later, telling them to buy ‘Ukash′ vouchers in order to receive the refund.

‘Ukash′ vouchers are used to buy goods online and are available in shops and post offices.

The fraudsters will then request the 19-digit code on the voucher, enabling them to steal the money.

They will then continue to call back to request more money. The victim will not receive the PPI refund.

The fraudsters are targeting the elderly for this scam in particular.

PCSO Melissa Mellor said: "We would like to highlight this scam to people and ask them to make their elderly relatives and friends aware about it.

"We would ask that anyone who receives a call of this nature, or who believes they may have been a victim, contact police as soon as possible via the non-emergency number, 101."

Site outage

You may have noticed the site was taken down by the hosting outage the other day. We have had to  restore over 5 years of articles this may result in some not being online and other deleted posted coming back online for a short time. It hoped all the work will be completed by 9 am Monday 23rd and full services will be restored. This has taken down 5 of my sites and is rare so we hope it wont happen again see here for details.

It may have caused a few problems to customers and we must apologize for any errors

MP’s 128th news bulletin

Sunday 23, September 2012

Welcome ...

Welcome to this my 128th news bulletin.

Some of you may have read in the papers this week that I have become Minister for Children.

I'm absolutely delighted about it, but perhaps in a slightly different way than you'd expect.

I'm not delighted because I've been promoted. I'm delighted about this particular job.

I came into politics for two reasons. Firstly, to represent the people of Crewe and Nantwich to the best of my ability - the people I had spent most of my working life working for as a family law barrister, specialising in the cases of vulnerable children.

The second reason is that I wanted to make the lives of these vulnerable children better.

In my time in Parliament, as well as my constituency duties, I have sat on the Children, Schools and Families Select Committee and chaired the all-party group on adoption and fostering, as well as the all party group for looked after children in the care system.

I recently wrote and published a report in which I made dozens of recommendations designed to help improve the education and life chances of children in care.

So really, to be given this job is just perfect, as well as an honour.

It allows me to formalise my existing efforts to help vulnerable children, and effect change for them at the heart of government, as well as using my position as a minister to speak up for my constituents to other government ministers and departments.

I know the cynics will still think that I'm climbing some sort of greasy pole, but I couldn't care less.

I have the best job in government, the best constituency in the country, and if I think back to my childhood home where my parents were raising all those foster children, I don't think I could have envisaged a job that I would enjoy more, or feel more able to make a useful contribution in.

And don't worry - I've never been much of one for sitting in an office, so I'll still be up and about in Crewe and Nantwich as much as ever. There's just too much to do!

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 and another at The Residence in Nantwich
• Attended the open day of the Wishing Well Project at the Jubilee Centre in Crewe to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Congratulations to Hilary and her team on reaching 10 years working for the most disadvantaged in our community
• Joined the Crewe and Nantwich branch of the Federation of Small Businesses over breakfast at the Broughton Arms to discuss how to help support local business
• Watched the The Nantwich Player’s Theatre excellent production of Calendar Girls. Congratulations to Jeremy the director and the fantastic cast for another superb production
• Attended a briefing on the progress of All Change for Crewe alongside local business leaders
• Attended and over-indulged at the Nantwich Food and Drink Festival that packed out the town
• Visited the Nantwich District Beaver Camp with my Children
• Played in the Charity Football football match against the cast of Hollyoaks at Nantwich Town raising funds for local charities
• Visited the Nantwich Street Pastors as they held a training session at the Methodist Church in Hospital Street

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Westminster Report

Read my most recent Westminster Report

Click here or on the image

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Photos & Video ...

Edward with kids enjoying ice-creams at the Nantwich Food & Drink Festival

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

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Community News

Nantwich Beer Festival 2012

A modest beer festival with an excellent range of beers, in excellent condition, plus cider, perry and local foods, in a setting conducive to their enjoyment!

Following the successful move to Nantwich Cricket Club on Whitehouse Lane (almost opposite Sainsburys) in 2010, plans for this year's festival are well advanced, and the festival will run from Friday 28th September to Sunday 30th September.

To visit the site click here

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MP joins police on town centre beat in Nantwich

Crewe Chronicle

MP EDWARD Timpson has been on patrol with police to observe the challenges and demands of the Friday night beat in Nantwich.

The Crewe and Nantwich MP teamed up with police constable Amy Fletcher and, before heading out on patrol, met with Inspector Dave Smithers to receive an update on the local force’s recent activities.

Insp Smithers, a policeman since 1986, is the Neighbourhood Policing Unit (NPU) Inspector for the Nantwich area.

His policing responsibilities also cover the surrounding areas of Acton, Audlem, Bunbury, Church Minshull, Peckforton, Willaston, Wrenbury and Wybunbury.
Insp Smithers, said: “My priorities for Nantwich are to reduce crime, anti-social behaviour and deal effectively with any night time economy issues. Our aim is to make people safer and feel safe.

“Our communities play an important role in neighbourhood policing, providing the police with information and opinion which influences local police priorities.
“The public are an integral part in the success of policing at a local level, and I would encourage residents to tell police officers and community support officers about issues they are concerned about.”

Edward Timpson added: “I am pleased to see that efforts to engage more with local people on policing are proving popular.

“I believe in giving people more information about their services. Already you can check all your local crime and policing information by visiting www.police.uk and in November, for the first time, people will have the opportunity to vote for their local Police and Crime Commissioners.”

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Celebrations as Nantwich nursery is launched

Crewe Chronicle

A WILLASTON couple have brought new life to a Nantwich nursery which was forced to close last year.

Woodlands Nursery, based on the site of the former Regents Theological College on London Road, was shut down in April 2011 because of problems with its registration, leaving staff jobless and 72 youngsters without childcare.

Landlords Elim Churches took back control of the building shortly after.

But Debbie Thelwell, 45, and husband Jason, 43, have reopened the site as Little Angels Nursery and celebrated with a launch party on August 31 attended by MP Edward Timpson and Nantwich mayor Cllr Graham Fenton.

The nursery is in addition to the couple’s pre-school facility at Weaver Primary School and their 10.57 Club – after-school and breakfast club – at both Weaver and Willaston primary schools.

Debbie said: “One or two of the children who were at Woodlands have joined us and one of the staff members is now employed at our out of school club. It’s taken us a while to get here but we really want it to be a success.

“We had more than 60 people join us for the launch and it went really well.

“We currently have 52 places and facilities for babies, toddlers and have a pre-school area. We also have a large outdoor area. The nursery’s location is great and it has two entrances, making it easier for parents.”

Jason added: “Opening the nursery gives us a chance to bring some positive publicity back to the site.”

For more information about the nursery call 01270 628745 or visit www.littleangelsnurseries.co.uk.

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MP Edward Timpson opens new-look Nantwich youth club

Nantwich News

MP Edward Timpson has opened the doors of the newly renovated Guy Harvey Youth Club on Birchin Lane in Nantwich.

He was joined by Nantwich Mayor Cllr Graham Fenton who has been a supporter of the Club for many years.

Thirteen young people from the Crewe & Nantwich area aged 16 and 17 decided to deliver a social action project for their local community by giving up 60 hours of their time to help rejuvenate the club.

The idea was also part of their National Citizen Service.

The group has successfully repainted and spruced up the interior, brought in new furniture and cleaned up around the buildings.

It’s hoped the refreshed facility will attract more young people and build on activities already taking place, including karate and dance.

Mr Timpson said: “I saw last summer in Crewe how the Government’s new National Citizen Service has given many of our young people the opportunity to experience the thrill of making a positive contribution to their local community.

“This project in Nantwich is a prime example of just that.

“Congratulations to the group for embracing the programme and for demonstrating what can be achieved with a little team work and a sense of community pride.

“Let’s hope this leads to the club becoming a focal point for young people in Nantwich.”

Calvin Latham, who organised the opening, said: “I’m really pleased with how the launch went as it was a really fun day, it was great to have Edward and Graham there to join in with the festivities and to have them appreciate our hard work.

“Hopefully we will be seeing many new faces around the club soon.”

The Guy Harvey Youth Club has activities for young people three nights every week – Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 6.15pm to 8.30pm.

There are regular film nights, football and pool tournaments, darts, basketball and fashion shows, organised by youth leaders, Sonia O’Hara and Dave Short.

There’s a small coffee bar for refreshments and trips such as canal boat weekends and visits to Alton Towers are laid on when funds permit.

The Guy Harvey Youth Club caters for all young people in the Nantwich area, as long as they are between 13 and 18.

The club can be contacted on 01270 625581 or visit www.southcheshirecvs.org.uk/community/commgroups/guyharvey.htm

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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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Crewe Has been Moved

I updated my iPhone with the new operating system (iOS6) yesterday, which included their new mapping software app called 'Apple Maps'. I note that in the app Wrexham, North Wales' largest town,  has relocated to Crewe (see screenshot)! Other gaffes that have been reported in the app include Paddington station vanishing from London and Dublin gaining a new airport. 

Jonathan White

Cheshire East Registration Service on the move

 

Cheshire East Council’s Register Office is moving from its current location in Delamere House in Crewe to its new home in the town’s Municipal Buildings.

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member in charge of corporate policy, said: “The new office places the registration service in an iconic building in the heart of the town centre, more suited to the important events that take place in residents’ lives.

“This reinforces the Council’s commitment to providing a quality service to the residents of Cheshire East. It will also make an impressive location for weddings and civil partnerships.”

For further information about Cheshire East Registration Service, please visit our website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/registrars

Message from Chief Constable David Whatton:

 
You will be seeing some new faces on the beat in the
coming months.
Chief Constable David Whatton said: “Like all public
services, the Constabulary has had to make substantial
savings to meet Government spending targets. We have
made over £19 million in savings in the last two years by
changing and improving the way we work and more will
come in the next two years.
“Inevitably, we have had to reduce officer and police
staff numbers, but we promised communities that we
would maintain our neighbourhood policing presence. We have done this by moving
officers from backroom or headquarters roles into the neighbourhood teams.
“We are now appointing 75 new officers to replace some of the police men and women who have retired during the last year. Fifteen will be experienced officers coming in from other forces, bringing specialist skills and expertise to Cheshire.

“Sixty new officers will be welcomed into the Constabulary and the first of these begin training in September. These are the fresh faces and enthusiastic new PCs who will join the neighbourhood teams in the coming months. I hope you will join me in welcoming
them and, when they do appear in your local area as “the new bobby”, provide them with all the support that you can.”

Deception crime

Date of Incident: 13/09/2012 00:00:00
Location of incident: Gainsborough Road

Police are appealing for information following a deception crime which took place in Crewe.

At about 12.20pm on Thursday 13th September 2012, an 85-year-old woman returned to her home on Gainsborough Road where she was approached by a man.

The man stated that he had been doing some repairs on a neighbour's roof and had noticed she had some roof tiles missing.

He said he had repaired it for her and it would cost £150. The woman then drove the man to a cash machine to withdraw the money for him before dropping him off near to Crewe town centre.

The man did not have a vehicle or any tools with him.

He is described as white, about 5'9" tall, in his mid 30s and of slim build. He was clean shaven with mousey coloured cropped hair and was wearing a blue t-shirt with jeans. He spoke with a slightly Irish accent.

Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting incident number 385 of 13th September 2012.

Record uptake in cervical cancer vaccinations

 

Central and Eastern Cheshire PCT has vaccinated a record number of girls against cervical cancer during the last school year, 2011-2012.

The latest programme of vaccinations saw the PCT’s highest ever uptake of 95.2 per cent.

The vaccine provides long-lasting protection against cervical cancer and is offered to Year 8 girls (12-13 years old) at all secondary schools in the PCT area.

The national programme has been in place for the last four years, with a catch up programme for girls up to the age of 18.

Dr Guy Hayhurst, Consultant in Public Health, said: “This is a wonderful achievement with 19 out of every 20 girls in this age group now protected against cervical cancer.

“It will reduce their need for cervical screening when they are older, and the chances of them having an abnormal result will be much lower.”

Councillor Janet Clowes, Cabinet member in charge of health and adult social care, said: “This news is extremely encouraging and will offer protection and peace of mind to thousands of girls across Cheshire East.

“I would also like to congratulate the school nurses for their dedication in following up the programme with young women in our schools.”

The cervical cancer vaccine is being offered to Year 8 girls in schools over the next few weeks.

Information packs and consent forms are being distributed via schools, and parents are encouraged to return the consent forms to their daughters’ school.

Older girls, up to the age of 18 years, who have missed having their vaccinations, should contact their school nurse team for further advice.

New Council watchdog appointed for Cheshire East

 

A new Council watchdog has been appointed to ensure that all Cheshire East councillors uphold the highest ethical standards. 

Cheshire East Council has recruited four local people as ‘independent persons’ to work with the authority’s new ad-hoc standards committee.

This body is a sub-committee of the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee and it will meet only as required.

The Localism Act 2011 places a duty on councils to promote and maintain high standards of conduct for elected and co-opted members. This includes the requirement to adopt a new code of conduct for members – which came into effect on July 19, 2012.

The Act requires that the Council also adopts arrangements for dealing with complaints of breaches of the code of conduct by councillors or co-opted members of Cheshire East Council and the town and parish councils in its area.

This has to include provision for the appointment of at least one ‘independent person’ who would be consulted on complaints. To ensure independence, there were restrictions as to who can apply for these posts – for example applicants must not be politically active or have any relationship with councillors, the Council or any of its employees. 

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member in charge of corporate policy, said: “The way our members conduct themselves is critically important – and of interest to many people in Cheshire East.

“That is why we need the process of upholding and enforcing the highest standards to be transparent, robust and involve local people who are independent of the Council.

“The work of this sub-committee is very important – and I look forward to working with its members to ensure that we continue to uphold the high standards of our elected representatives across Cheshire East.

“This issue is a negligible problem within Cheshire East. In the period April 2011 to March 2012, only two complaints were received against our members and neither resulted in any action being taken. In the same period, eight complaints were received against town and parish council members, of which five were dismissed and three are ongoing.”

Independent persons on the ad-hoc standards committee will serve for four years.

● If you  wish to complain that a councillor or co-opted member of Cheshire East Council, or a town or parish councillor in the Cheshire East area may have failed to comply with the relevant code of conduct, please make your complaint in writing to:

The Monitoring Officer

Cheshire East Council

Westfields

Middlewich Road

Sandbach

CW11 1HZ

Alternatively, email the Council at: MonitoringOfficerCEC@cheshireeast.gov.uk

For more information about the new code of conduct for Council members and how to make a complaint, visit the Council’s website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk and enter ‘councillor conduct’ in the search term box.

Every minute counts for pupils in Crewe

 

Cheshire East Council is encouraging children, parents and the wider community to get behind a campaign to improve attendance and punctuality at schools in Crewe.

Schools across the town have come together on the ‘Every Minute Counts’ project, which aims to build on steady improvements in classroom attendance over recent years.

Evidence shows that children who miss periods of school at a young age are less likely to succeed academically and more likely not to be in education, employment and training (NEET) after the age of 16.

Punctuality is also a major focus: if a child is late for school they could miss the most important part of the lesson and find it hard to catch up.

Elements of the campaign already in places are:

• Local rail company Bombardier will sound their hooter at 8.45am on Monday, September 24, to mark the start of the campaign and the start of the school day;
• Schools will display banners showing their support for the scheme, there will also be a large banner outside Crewe Library;
• Pupils will design their own banners, with the winning entry being displayed on Arriva buses in the town;
• Teaching staff will make a point of welcoming each child as they arrive at school; and
• Children at Wistaston Green have written comic strips to help families organise things like homework, sports kit and dinner money the night before.

Parents have a big role to play in their child’s education and they are urged to encourage good attendance, especially when their child doesn’t feel like going to school.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member in charge of children and family services, said: “I am fully behind this campaign and I hope it stresses to both children and their parents about how important punctuality and good school attendance is.

“Pupils will never get this time back and, at a time when jobs are scarce, good education and qualifications are vital for future prospects.”

Several local businesses and community figures have already lent their support to the campaign, leaving comments on a dedicated web page: http://creweschools.pbworks.com/w/page/53293138/ATTENDANCE

Crewe Concert Band

Reporter Jonathan White,

Crewe Concert Band - http://www.cwecb.co.uk - are performing a ‘Jubilee Proms Concert’ on Thursday 18^th October 2012. The concert will be held at the Wistaston Memorial Hall, Church Lane, Wistaston CW2 8ER. 7:30pm start. Tickets = £6 (including light refreshments). Proceeds will be shared between the Band and the Hall.

James Duncalf,

Reporter Jonathan White

James Duncalf, aged 12, from Haslington has been involved in a major cycling event. James, who is a member of Lyme Racing Club - http://www.lymeracingclub.com - was one of a selection of his Club’s youth section who led the professional riders over the start line of The Tour of Britain - http://www.tourofbritain.com . He led out the cyclists during Stage 5, which took place from Trentham Gardens on 13th September. James has been involved in cycle racing since the age of 8 and competes every week at the National Cycling Centre indoor velodrome in Manchester. James said, “It was an honour to be asked by my Club to lead out the riders. It was fantastic to line up with my cycling heroes which included Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish.”

Wistaston in Bloom competition.

Reporter Jonathan White,

The Wistaston in Bloom committee have awarded the Byatt Trophy for ‘The Best Community Premises in Wistaston’ to Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club (WJTC). WJTC were presented with their trophy at the annual Wistaston Flower and Produce Show. The WJTC grounds committee - consisting of Helen Heath, Bill Heath and Tony Mason - look after the tennis club grounds all year round. Tasks at the tennis club, which is located behind Wistaston Memorial Hall on Church Lane, include weeding, cutting the grass verges, cutting the hedges, planting up tubs and tending to the flower beds. Bill Heath said, "We are delighted to receive the trophy on behalf of the Club."

Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club (WJTC) Finals Day on Sunday

Reporter Jonathan White

The Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club (WJTC) Finals Day took place on Sunday 16^th September, in blustery but mainly dry weather, on the two courts behind the Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre on Church Lane. Alastair Bain (WJTC Chairman) introduced the presentation of trophies in the Dudley Room inside the Memorial Hall:

- Men’s Singles Final: Jonathan Braithwaite beat Alastair Bain 6-4, 6-1. Trophy presented by Geoff Armitage (Honorary Guest).

- Veterans Doubles Final: Roy Birtles and Eric James beat Alan Whittingham and Alan Sim 6-4, 6-3. Trophies presented by Sheila Armitage (Honorary Guest).

- Open Doubles Final: Diane Mayman and Jonathan Braithwaite beat Tony Mason and Chris Raiswell 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. Trophies presented by Alice Chalwin (WJTC President).

- Men’s Doubles Final: Alan Whittingham and Chris Raiswell beat Jonathan Braithwaite and Richard Barr 7-5, 6-1. Trophies presented by John White (Honorary Life Member).

- Veterans Trophy winners: Rosemary Walker and Alan Whittingham. Trophies presented by Margaret Maddock (Honorary Life Member).

Refreshments were provided by members of the club, under the supervision of Alice Chalwin and Margaret Maddock.

For WJTC membership details please contact Bill Heath (Tel. 01270 560471).

Nantwich Food & Drink Festival 2012

Reporter Jonathan White

Over 30,000 people were expected to attend the Nantwich Food & Drink Festival 2012 - http://www.nantwichfoodfestival.co.uk/ - which took place on Friday 14^th, Saturday 15^th and Sunday 16^th September. The main event areas were Nantwich Civic Hall, The Bowling Green car park, a Live food theatre on the town square, and a children’s area behind The White Horse pub. The Market Hall was open all weekend and there were also stalls and events in the Cocoa Yard off Hospital Street and the Methodist Church on Hospital Street. Musical attractions included The N'Ukes ukulele group and the Co-op Band. RedShift Radio - http://www.redshiftradio.co.uk were broadcasting from the event and ITV were filming a new TV show called ‘Cook Me the Money’.

Jax Alaskan Malamute

A lot of people are asking How Jax the new Alaskan Malamute is doing. Well he is now 4 months old and weighs over 50 lbs and you can check on his progress at his own blog. He gets into all sorts of mischief  and he goes by the Malamute code which is

If I like its mine
If I saw it first its mine
If its in my mouth its mine
If I can take it from you its mine
If it looks like mine its mine
If I had it a while ago its mine
If you have something and put it down its mine
If I chew something up  the bit are mine
If it used to be yours get over it
If its broken its yours
If you get in my yard you aint getting out
My house my yard your ass another perfect day
Burglars please remove jewellery before entering as the dog cant digest them when he eats you

He may well get to 8st once he is fully grown he doubles his weight every 3 weeks and puts on about 1 kg a day

Ten Autumn Crime Prevention Tips

1.        Invest in some timer switches which you can set up to allow lights to come on in your property whilst no one is home.  If you are habitually out at certain times consider changing the times that the lights come on and off every so often so there isn’t an obvious pattern.
2.        Ensure that boundaries around your property remain in good repair this includes fences, hedges and any other vegetation.  As trees, plants and hedges lose their foliage take time to check your property for any thin or weak spots that could offer easy access to your garden and take steps to rectify these immediately.
3.        After getting your garden ready for the autumn/winter months securely lock away all your tools.  Tools that are left lying around can be used to assist in committing a crime on your property or a neighbour’s property.
4.        Take a look around your property and identify any areas where you could improve your security - aim to tackle these issues sooner rather than later.  Unfortunately, most people only seriously consider their security after they have become a victim of crime.
5.        Close your curtains when it is dark.  Brightly lit rooms draw the eye of passers by offering an ideal opportunity for people to see what you have inside your home at a glance.
6.        As town centre’s start to get busier in the months running up to Christmas they can be targeted by pickpockets.  Be mindful where you keep your purse and wallet.  Purses should be secured in your handbag; handbags should always be fully shut and worn to your front.  Wallets should never be kept in back pockets.  Bear this advice in mind when attending other busy upcoming events such as a local bonfire/fireworks display.
7.        In the run up to bonfire night encourage neighbour’s to report any unofficial bonfires that appear to be sprouting up so that they can be removed by the authorities.
8.        Good lighting is a beneficial investment as burglars hate it as they want to operate unseen.  Motion sensor lights are a good option as they come on when they detect movement and can be positioned to cover vulnerable areas.  It is also possible to purchase dusk till dawn lights which come on when it goes dark and turn themselves off in the morning so can be used to light specific points on a permanent basis
9.        As the weather becomes colder and more frosty don’t be tempted to leave your vehicle unattended whilst defrosting your vehicle.  Many motorists will either leave their vehicle insecure or will lock the doors with a spare key whilst they go inside.  Remember it only takes a matter of seconds for a thief to drive away with your car.  If you are unable to place your car in a garage or a car port ensure that you stay with the car while it defrosts or invest in a protective sheet so the windscreen does no get frosted up.
10.        Darker nights afford criminals the opportunity to be less visible whilst they engage in crime.  Ask all members to be vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour directly to the police.

Leader’s Message: “Stand up and be counted!”

 

The latest response figures to the Local Plan consultation show only a small proportion of people living in Cheshire East are interested in how their borough will look by 2030.

With just over two weeks left until the Local Plan consultation closes, residents have been very slow to get involved - with just 145 responses from an estimated 243,000 people in the six consultation towns!

Now time is running out to have a say in this important document that will affect your future, your children’s – and your grandchildren’s.

The Local Plan will set out where future housing, jobs, roads, schools, access to local health services - such as hospitals and GP surgeries - leisure facilities, parks, green spaces, roads and much more.

Council Leader Councillor Michael Jones said: “We need your opinions to defend your towns and villages.

“This is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity for this generation to stand up and be counted and really make their mark.

“For all residents of Cheshire East, the Local Plan consultation is your time to decide what your neighbours, your neighbourhood, your roads, schools and countryside will look like over the next 20 years. You must tell us what you want!

“Some say that Cheshire East Council does not listen, but as Leader I can give examples of where residents have spoken up for themselves and have been listened to and have enjoyed a consultation victory.

“In Wilmslow where people were consulted on the Wilmslow Vision, also part of the Local Plan consultation, the community pulled together to make sure their views were heard by submitting around 1,500 completed questionnaires. That’s the sort of spirit we want.”

Deputy Leader Councillor David Brown added: “I am absolutely astonished. We are a traditional rural area and we have the chance to keep it like that, and to influence where developments can and can’t go.

“But the issue is being met with an almost stony silence! This is an opportunity of a lifetime - grab it with both hands!

“145 responses at this stage is woeful and I’m just hoping that it’s because people are too busy.

“I can guarantee that if you do make the time to fill out a consultation form, it will be one of the best investments you’ll make for you and your family’s future.”

• To have your say on the Local Plan consultation log on to: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/localplan or to find out more please visit the Council’s Facebook or twitter pages.

• Consultation documents are also available at libraries in the six consultation towns which are: Crewe, Nantwich, Macclesfield, Knutsford, Poynton and Handforth.

• The consultation runs until October 1, 2012.

Pioneering service is launched to help young people at risk of care or custody

 

A pioneering new approach to help young people at risk of going into care or custody has been launched in Cheshire.

Funding of £200,000 from the Department for Education has enabled a multi-systemic therapy (MST) service to be established in Cheshire East and Cheshire West.

Multi-systemic therapy is so called because it addresses the different ‘systems’ or social networks in an adolescent's life.

Therapists work intensively not only with the young person but also all those who influence the young person and his behaviour – such as his or her carers, family, teachers and even neighbours.

This intensive and cost-effective approach, pioneered in the US, aims to break the cycle of crime and anti-social behaviour by keeping young people at home, in school and out of trouble.

Numerous studies have shown that MST achieves excellent long-term results – reducing arrest rates by up to 70 per cent and reducing out-of-home placements by up to 64 per cent.

Cheshire’s successful bid for funding was a unique partnership comprising Cheshire East Council, Cheshire West and Chester Council, NHS Western Cheshire PCT, Central and Eastern Cheshire PCT, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust, Cheshire Youth Offending Service and the clinical commissioning groups across Cheshire.

The new service will focus on young people, aged 11 to 17, who are at risk of entering custody or care.

The service is being delivered by Middlewich-based charity Visyon. The team of six staff includes an MST supervisor and four MST therapists.

Therapists aim to change the behaviour of the young person and support families to develop the skills and confidence that will enable continued success in increasing positive behaviours.

Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of children and family services, said: “Multi-systemic therapy places the emphasis on early intervention, helping young people to address and change their behaviour before they reach the stage of entering care or custody.

“In other areas across Britain we have seen families completing MST and no longer needing support from additional services. This is very exciting for everyone involved in helping these families.

“Numerous studies have shown this approach achieves impressive long-term results. It has the potential to make a real difference to the lives of troubled young people and their families in Cheshire.”

MST Champions have been identified in each of the organisations within the partnership.  These champions will be the point of contact for referrals to the service.

The MST therapists will be available to families they are helping 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They will handle a small number of cases but provide intensive support.

Treating young people in this way not only improves their chances of turning their lives around but also is far more cost effective than taking them into care or risking them ending up in custody.

Summit Success for Local Hospice Fundraiser

 

On 21 June local fundraiser Lee Hulme from Crewe reached the summit of Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, raising a much-needed £5,000 for St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice.

Local lad Lee Hulme, who works in the warehouse of Crewe-based Gist Ltd, was one of a ten man team to trek up one of the world’s most well-known mountain, Kilimanjaro in the Tanzania National Parks, and decided to do the trek to raise money for local adult hospice, St Luke’s.

Lee followed the Lemosho route up to the Mountain’s highest peak, Uhuru, which is the highest point on the African Continent at 5,895 metres.

During the trek Lee suffered from altitude sickness, but was fortunately able to carry on, achieving his goal of reaching the summit.

It took Lee seven days to traverse Kilimanjaro, with six to nine hours of trekking each day. On summit night, the group set off by torchlight at 11pm, with a final climb of seven hours ahead of them, to reach the peak at sunrise.

Said Lee: “During the seven days I trekked through some beautiful and amazing scenery, ranging from pristine rainforests to rugged, moon-like landscapes. 

“I met some truly inspirational people, including the local guides and porters who hauled all the equipment up the mountain and my other ten team members, who all made it to the summit.”

Lee was overjoyed to reach his personal target of £5,000 raised towards patient care at St Luke’s, with further monies still to be collected. If you’d like to donate to Lee’s Kilimanjaro climb total you can visit: www.justgiving.com/Lee-Hulme

Community artwork on show at centenary exhibition

 

A variety of community art projects are going on show in Crewe as part of an exhibition celebrating the centenary of Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Cheshire.

The week-long exhibition starts on Tuesday, September 11, and charts the university’s development since it opened as Crewe College of Education in 1912.

For part of the exhibition, MMU Cheshire commissioned a number of professional artists to work with a range of community groups as part of a banner project. The theme was to show Crewe’s journey from a railway town to one with increasing opportunities linked to the university.

Under the guidance of Crewe Local Area Partnership (LAP), each group has designed and produced their own banner, which will be on display along other artwork, including installations and film screenings.

Another project that is sure to stand out is the ‘Aiming High Man’. The LAP wanted to make clear links between education and aspiration, while still engaging with children.

Local Age UK group ‘Men in sheds’ (a project for older men over 55 who feel isolated or who are experiencing major life changes and/or isolation) were asked to build a wooden frame outline of a graduate in cap and gown receiving a degree.

The frame was then taken to a National Play Day event at the town’s Queens Park, where people got stuck into collage work to give the student ‘something to wear’.

The artwork will be on show at the university’s Axis Arts Centre from Tuesday, September 11.

Read all about it!

–Grab tickets for Cheshire East Libraries’ Readers’ and Writers’ Day

Don’t miss your chance to spend time with some of your favourite authors later this month.

Cheshire East Council has unveiled the line-up of writing talent that will be on show at its library service’s Readers’ and Writers’ Day to celebrate books and reading.  And tickets are still available.

Performance poet Tony Walsh – aka ‘Longfella’, who was ‘poet in residence’ at Glastonbury Festival 2011 – will host an afternoon of activities including an author panel and workshops at Macclesfield Library on Saturday, September 22.

The guest novelists and publishers taking part include:

● Kevin Duffy, from Bluemoose Books, an independent publisher, who will talk about the publishing process.  This is a great opportunity for writers to discuss new technologies and publishing;

● Helen Walsh, Warrington-born author now living in Liverpool. Go To Sleep is her third novel. Her first, Brass, published in 2004, won the Betty Trask Prize. Her second novel, Once Upon a Time in England, won a Somerset Maugham Prize;

● Alison Boyle, Preston-born author of From Pakistan to Preston, a fictional story about the artificial silk industry in the North. Alison is keen to share her book journey with us – showing how everyday life plays a part in writing and reading;  

● Emma Jane Unsworth, Manchester-based author, whose first novel, Hungry, The Stars and Everything, has just won the Betty Trask Prize. Emma Jane will talk about her debut novel;

● Sherry Ashworth, from Little Gem Publishers. Sherry is an author, publisher and lecturer. She will share her wide experience and love of reading in an inspirational and entertaining way.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member in charge of performance and capacity, said: “I would encourage avid readers and writers to get themselves along to this event as we have some excellent writers and publishers attending.

“They will be on hand for readings and workshops on the day and visitors will also be able to purchase books and get them signed by the authors at the event.”

Tickets, priced £10, are available from Macclesfield Library, Congleton Library, Crewe Library, Nantwich Library and Wilmslow Library. The event runs from 12.30pm to 5pm.

Tickets include afternoon tea from Macclesfield’s Cherry Blossom Bakery and an opportunity to round off the evening with a ‘meal deal’ offer from Fina Bar and Grill.

For more information about the event, visit Cheshire East libraries’ website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/libraries or ring Macclesfield Library on 01625 374000.

Drop-in sessions for rural communities

 

People of all ages from Crewe’s rural communities are being given the opportunity to have their say about services in their area.

Drop-in sessions have been organised so that people’s views on transport links, housing, the economy, youth activities, education, health and ageing well, can be included in an important document called the 2013/2014 Crewe Local Area Partnership Plan.

The Plan will incorporate the areas of Barthomley, Crewe Green, Haslington, Rope, Shavington-cum-Gresty, Weston and Basford, Willaston and Wistaston.

Residents are urged to go along to the drop-in sessions, which will be supported by officers from Cheshire East Council together with other agencies. 

The drop-in sessions will be held on:

• Saturday, September 15: Wychwood Village Hall, between 11am and 2pm.

• Thursday, September 20: Shavington Youth Centre, between 5pm and 8pm.

Model Railway Show

Model Railway Show & Miniature Railway Gala
the 27th and 28th October 2012
10:00am till 16:30pm

A selection of Model railways and layouts and locomotives of
various types running on the Miniature Railway.
Other attractions include:
Brake Van rides, Three Signal Boxes, Cafe serving light
refreshments, Advanced Passenger Train, Cab visits,
 Trade stands/stalls
Admission Charges - Adults £5, Children £2,
Seniors £3, Family £10

www.chcmr.webs.com

Nantwich Tennis Club

Reporter John White

Nantwich Tennis Club Ladies 'A' team captain Sue Winters received the 2012 Slazenger South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League (http://www.smctennis.co.uk) Ladies Division 1 silver cup from League Secretary John White at the League Presentation Afternoon at Nantwich Tennis Club on Sunday 9th September. This was the twenty-ninth occasion that Nantwich Ladies have won this division. In 1972 the Nantwich Ladies won Division 1 for the first time. They won it for the next 3 years until 1975. From 1978 to 1986 (9 years) they won Division 1 and dominated the Ladies league. In 1987 they played in the Men's league, being promoted from the Division 6 to Division 3. In 1993 they returned to the Ladies league. They have won the Ladies Division 1 title from 1993 to 2012 (20 years). Are they invincible? This year they again won the League's Ladies Knockout competition, which they first won in 1980.

In 1983 and again in 1985 Sue Winters and Val Hutton won the Leagues Ladies Doubles tournament.

Nantwich Tennis Club - http://www.nantwichtennis.co.uk/ - is located at Windy Arbour (off the Alvaston Roundabout), Middlewich Road, Nantwich CW5 6PF.

The 2012 Slazenger South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League

Reporter John White, Crewe

The 2012 Slazenger South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League Presentation Afternoon (plus two tournaments) took place at Nantwich Tennis Club - http://www.nantwichtennis.co.uk/ - on Sunday 9th September. The two tournaments were open doubles and veterans doubles and involved forty players from a variety of local clubs. The open doubles tournament, for the Jane Astbury Shield, was won by Jeannette Walker & Damian Cookson. The veterans doubles tournament, for the Tim Griffiths Shield, was won by Lyn Wood & Simon Parker.

Rosebank Sports - http://www.rosebank-sports.co.uk/ - attended with a tennis clothing and equipment stall.

Wonderful refreshments were followed by presentation of trophies from the league competitions (see winners list below). Local winners included Nantwich, Tarporley and Hightown (Crewe).

The Stonelake Shield Sporting Award was presented to Linda Smith from Cuddington & Sandiway Tennis Club for her sportsmanship and attitude.

League Chairman Dave Clarke said, "I would like to thank Nantwich Tennis Club for hosting today's event, the ladies who produced the fantastic refreshments this afternoon, and the league officers for their sterling work throughout the

year. I would also like to thank all the clubs who attended and congratulate the divisional winners. We are grateful to Slazenger for their continued sponsorship."

The full list of 2011-12 winners is:

SUMMER LEAGUES

Ladies Division 1 - Nantwich A

Ladies Division 2 - Hartford B

Ladies Division 3 - Hartford C

Ladies Division 4 - Holmes Chapel C

Men's Division 1 - Congleton A

Men’s Division 2 - Hartford D

Men’s Division 3 - Alsager B

Men’s Division 4 - Nantwich D

Men’s Division 5 - Tarporley B

Mixed Division 1 - Congleton A

Mixed Division 2 - Hartford A

Mixed Division 3 - Alsager

Ladies Knockout - Nantwich A

Ladies Handicap Knockout - Hartford C

Les Hoff Men’s Knockout - Hartford A

Les Beckett Men’s Knockout - Alsager B

Jane Astbury Mixed Knockout - Nantwich A

Dave Clarke Veterans KO - Hartford

Stonelake Shield Sporting Award - Linda Smith

WINTER LEAGUES

Division 1 - Congleton A

Division 2 - Nantwich B

Division 3 - Tarporley A

Division 4 - Goostrey

Division 5 - Acton Bridge

Ray Jones Knockout - Alsager A

Barbara Smith Knockout - Tarporley B

SPRING LEAGUES

Division 1 - Congleton A

Division 2 - Congleton C

Division 3 - Goostrey

Division 4 - Hightown

Division 5 - Holmes Chapel C

JUNIOR LEAGUES

Boys Under 14 - Hartford A + Hartford B

Boys Under 16 - Hartford + Nantwich

Boys Under 12 - Nantwich

Moss Lane residents say speeding not an issue on their road

 

Residents and businesses on Moss Lane in Crewe have stated overwhelmingly that speeding is not a problem on their road and neither is the volume of traffic.

The results of a survey in the area showed conclusively that the people who live and work on Moss Lane do not have a problem with the traffic using it.

In all, 24 residents and traders answered the questionnaire. Of those 24, 18 did not consider there was a speeding issue and 22 did not consider there was a high volume of traffic.

However, another 41 questionnaires were returned from people who did not live on Moss Lane, many of whom are believed to be dog walkers using the lane. Their results were totally at odds with the people living and working there.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “We promised to investigate this matter after approaches from the public and we have done this.

“We also said that if evidence shows that measures to slow down traffic will provide a solution then they will be considered. However, it is very difficult to justify carrying out any work when the residents and businesses of that very road do not believe there is a problem.

“Speeding is not acceptable and we will not tolerate it but there must be clear justification to make changes to the road and, in this instance, there is not.”

Councillor Derek Bebbington, Ward member for Leighton, added: “We take these matters very seriously and I would like to thank all those who took the time to fill their questionnaires in.

“It is very telling that the majority of people who live and work on Moss Lane do not believe there are any problems and no action is required at this time.

“However, we are aware there is a new housing estate to be built in the vicinity of Moss Lane and, therefore, we will continue to monitor the situation.”