25 Czechs living in Condemned House

A few months ago the house on the corner of Oxford St West st which was also a bed shop its whole side wall collapsed into the Lion and Swan garage destroying several cars. It has been held up by wood to stop it collapsing as the whole building seems to have moved and twisted. The remaining side wall has holes in it and the roof is in bad repair. The garage cant use part of his forecourt as its not deemed safe to work under as the house may collapse into the yard.

The Lion and Swan insurance is now taking the owner of the building to court as no attempts have been made to make the building safe so they have been months without half of the yard.

What has now come to light is there are at least 25 Czechs living in the house which must be condemned. This raises several questions if the house is so dangerous why are they there? Are they squatting? If its being rented out it multiple occupancy which means it must be licensed by the council. Are they legal immigrants? As the house is so dangerous why hasn’t health and safety been used is there a gas safety certificate, is the electric safe as they are running live mains cables from the front door to upstairs outside it cant be safe.

With so many people in the house can they make the house more dangerous with vibrations etc, its very clear these people are in danger and the public may be as well if the house collapse into West st when people are walking by.

There is a side issue to all this as well as this one house several other in Underwood Lane are being occupied by other Czechs with up to 20 people in each house the Derby dock at nigh has anything up to 50 of them around the play area and this is frightening local residents many who are in their 80s. In Oxford St from the house they all sit outside and its frightening to walk down the street. The real side issue is they throw rubbish everywhere.

At the rear of Underwood lane is a mother and baby unit which houses lots of new born babies and these people throw their rubbish outside the unit all over the floor with smelly nappies maggots and flies which is a health risk. According to environmental health they say its nothing to do with them even though its putting babies at risk from infection.

What is happening now is that the rubbish is being set alight at least 3 incidents have happened in the last week and all the rubbish is not English which suggests that there is an arsonist in the area possible targeting Czechs. One of the fires at 2:15am was feet from a car which could have been set alight. Cllr Brian Sylvester is looking into the matter for local residents

Cheshire East Council prosecutes daughter in disabled badge fraud

 

In one of the first cases of its kind for Cheshire East, a motorist has been fined for displaying her late mother’s disabled Blue Badge to avoid paying parking fees.

The prosecution was a result of enforcement action by Cheshire East Council’s Benefit Fraud Investigations Team and the Parking Enforcement Team.

The dedicated team of professionals has now diversified into investigating allegations of abuse of the Blue Badge scheme here in Cheshire East.

Denise Love, 57 of Merebrook Road, Macclesfield was fined £100 on each of three offences of wrongful use of the badge, the court heard when parking at the Grosvenor Centre Car Park in Macclesfield on three occasions in May and June of this year.

She pleaded guilty by post to all three offences when her case came before South and East Cheshire Magistrates in Macclesfield on September 24.

Magistrates were told that the badge ceased to be valid following the death of the defendant’s mother, in March 2014 and that it should have been returned to the issuing authority.

The prosecution was brought by the legal team under Section 117 of the Road Traffic Regulation 1984.

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member for localism and enforcement said:

“Many disabled people feel rightly aggrieved when they cannot use a disabled parking space set aside for them simply because another motorist is fraudulently displaying a Blue Badge that does not belong to them.

“This is an anti-social crime and we intend to prosecute offenders where we feel action is justified.”

“Blue Badges are meant to be used by the holder of the badge either as the driver of the vehicle or as a passenger.

“If fraudulent misuse is suspected, the matter will be vigorously investigated and could result in a criminal conviction for the person who has misused it.”

Anyone who suspects an individual is misusing a Blue Badge intended for a disabled person can ring a confidential Freephone Hotline 0800 389 2787. All calls are treated in strictest confidence.

You’re hired! Cheshire East welcomes its latest group of apprentices to its highways team

 

You’re hired! – Cheshire East Council has welcomed its latest apprentice recruits to its high-flying highways team

A record number of 11 young people attended their induction at Brunswick Wharf as the third and latest group of apprentices with Cheshire East Highways.

It was a busy day being welcomed by not only service leader Chris Shields and his staff, but also by Ringway Jacobs managing director Mike Notman and senior figures from the  Council’s commissioning leadership.

The recruits had several briefings and opportunities to go out on site and a have their group photograph taken at Cheshire East’s HQ at Westfields, Sandbach, alongside Cabinet member Councillor David Topping and Lorraine Butcher, head of strategic commissioning at the Council.

Cllr David Topping, Cabinet member in charge of service commissioning, said: “It is really great to see such enthusiastic, energetic new talent joining our superb highways team.

“Our award-winning apprenticeship scheme ensures these young people gain extensive work experience. They are supported and mentored throughout their placement as well as gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

“The scheme acts as a bridge from school or college helping young people of the Borough become work-ready and valuable employees. We take great pride in helping unlock their talent, give it direction and watch them really fly with the responsibilities they take on.”

The apprenticeships, all of which are supported by college courses, cover a wide range of activities within the business and last for two years – with successful apprentices being offered continuing roles with Ringway Jacobs at the end.

This year’s apprentices, who range from the age of 16 to over 21, will see three employed in highway maintenance, three in civil engineering, two in business administration, one in finance, one in quantity surveying and one in street lighting.

Chris Shields said: “These are really exciting times to bring young people into the organisation, creating fantastic opportunities.”

Cheshire East Highways is proud to announce that with the introduction of these latest recruits, apprentices account for nearly 15 per cent of its employees, which far exceeds the average in this business sector.

Corporately, Ringway Jacobs (now with nine per cent of employees as apprentices) has backed this with joining the Five Per Cent Club, which consists of public and private companies in the UK who want to make a difference and support the UK’s ability to compete in global markets through transforming the fortunes of young talented people by offering apprenticeships and graduate schemes.

Ringway Jacobs’ managing director Mike Notman said: “I’m delighted that we continue to bring in young talent into our organisation, developing the skills and experience needed for the long-term success of our business.”

Cheshire East Council acts to stimulate affordable housing

 

Cheshire East Council is investing £500,000 of its capital assets to encourage registered providers and developers to bring forward affordable housing. 

The Housing Innovation Fund will be launched by Cheshire East in early October 2014.

Affordable housing creates balanced, sustainable communities while driving superior health and well-being for modest-income households. Moreover, it provides the vital impetus for economic activity and aspiration.

Affordability is an issue across Cheshire East. Residents are struggling to access the housing market.  Average lower quartile house price, which is the usual access point for first time buyers, is £122,500. 

Average lower quartile incomes are £18,559 which represents 6.6-times income levels in order to purchase a property. 

Councillor Don Stockton, Cabinet member with responsibility for housing and jobs, said: “The provision of affordable housing is a priority for the Council. Incentivising the delivery of affordable housing schemes will bring forward much needed accommodation to support our jobs-led growth plans and provide sustainable vibrant communities.”

Developers and registered providers are invited to apply for a prospectus by emailing Vikki Jeffrey at Vikki.jeffrey@cheshireeast.gov.uk  the closing date for bids is the middle of November 2014 and announcements will be made in December 2014.

Cheshire East website makes affordable housing easier to find

 

Cheshire East Council is making it simpler and quicker for the public to find affordable housing.

The council has updated and relaunched its Homechoice website, which contains lots of useful information about social housing and homes for sale.

The website – www.cheshirehomechoice.org.uk – now contains: a section with details of homes that are available without waiting; a homes to buy section with homes for sale at more reasonable prices than the open market; and My Home Options, an online self-help tool for Cheshire East residents which provides instant access to housing advice, 24 hours a day.

Cheshire Homechoice is a partnership between the Council and the Borough’s three biggest landlords, Peaks and Plains Housing Trust, the Plus Dane Group and Wulvern Housing.

Councillor Don Stockton, Cabinet member for housing and jobs, added: “We believe in putting residents first and the website reinforces this promise by empowering people to make informed housing choices.

“Our vision for Cheshire Homechoice is that it will become a portal to affordable housing for Cheshire East residents.

“Over the coming months, the Homechoice Partnership is running an advertising campaign in local media to help raise awareness of the website and to encourage local residents to use the site for all their housing needs and aspirations.

“Providing a great public service in a radically changing world is something that we are passionate about in Cheshire East. We are united by a common purpose – to serve the people of Cheshire East through fulfilling our community leadership role, ensuring quality and value in public services and safeguarding the most vulnerable in society.”

Cheshire East Council gives local Guides a helping hand to buy much-needed kit

 

Cheshire East Council has given a boost to a local Guides’ group so they can buy much-needed camping gear.

Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for localism and enforcement Les Gilbert visited one of the weekly sessions at 1^st Holmes Chapel Guides to present them with a cheque for £510 from the Council’s community grants scheme.

Cllr Gilbert, who is ward member for Dane Valley, said: “The Guide movement has been going for over 100 years and is still going strong.

“I’m pleased to see that we have a particularly lively and active group here in Holmes Chapel and Cheshire East is pleased to be able to support them with this community grant for £510, which will help them to buy some much-needed equipment.”

Guides leader Rachael Dingle, who accepted the cheque on behalf of the unit, said: “We are very pleased to have this support from Cheshire East.

“We applied for a grant from the Cheshire East community grants scheme, to allow us to buy some tents, as we currently don’t have any of our own. Previously we’ve borrowed tents but this grant, along with some funding from our unit, will allow us to buy five tents for our outdoor expeditions.

“There is a brilliant opportunity in a few weeks’ time for a camping trip to Alton Towers, where the unit will be able to actually camp in the grounds of the park and we’ll use the new tents for this trip.

“We currently have 24 girls in this unit, which covers ages 10 to 14. As these girls get older and progress to the senior section, more girls will join us – so the money spent here will have a positive use for many girls over years to come.”

Cheshire East grant helps community cinema become a reel success

 

Cheshire East Council has given a community cinema group more than £1,000 to help get it off the ground.

Holmes Chapel Community Cinema, known as HC3 for short, has held its first screening (on September 18) – and Cheshire East Councillor Les Gilbert was on hand to present a cheque for £1,115 from the Council’s community grant scheme to support the new venture.

Cllr Gilbert said: “This is a great example of a community-led project and projects such as this illustrate the strong sense of community that exists in Holmes Chapel.

“Something like this doesn’t just happen by itself – it takes people with vision and energy to make it happen.

“I want to congratulate HC3 chair Peter Clinton, its treasurer Bill Bowers and the rest of the team. I know that a lot of effort has gone in to this in terms of research, consultation and planning and I was very pleased to see such a strong turnout to see their first screening.

“Cheshire East Council is pleased to be able to support the project by funding the start-up costs. I now urge the community to get behind this initiative and show their ongoing support – and I wish the project every success going forward.”

Holmes Chapel Parish Council chairman Steve Ranger added: “This was a fantastic night for the village – the fruit of some brilliant work by the team, who set this up in a very short time.

“The project was triggered by the results from a parish council survey to find out what things the people of Holmes Chapel wanted in terms of facilities, and the show of interest for a community cinema was very strong, with over 200 households saying that it was one of the things they wanted.

“We are very grateful to Cheshire East Council for providing a contribution of over £1,000 to help with the start-up costs.”

Holmes Chapel Community Cinema treasurer Bill Bowers said: “The community cinema is being run on a non-profit basis. The aim is to make the cinema self-sustaining but it just needed a bit of financial support to get it going.

“We have set up a website www.hc3.uk where we will advertise details of upcoming screenings and we also plan to use some of the grant money to put up a notice board at the library.

“I’d like to say how delighted I was to see everyone attend the showing of Belle. We were all biting our nails, wondering how many people would come – and it was wonderful to see the place full.”

Council splashes out £3,000 to boost local swimming club

 

Cheshire East Council has splashed out with £3,000 to boost a local swimming club.

In a visit to the recently-refurbished Nantwich Swimming Pool, Council Leader Michael Jones presented a grant cheque to Nantwich Seals.

Councillor Jones said “It was great to be there with the Nantwich Seals at the start of their gala to present a much-needed grant.

“We are giving this funding to encourage and support these activities for young people, enabling cheaper fees and getting more children swimming.

“It’s a great local story and it was a pleasure to be there with such a great group of young people – plus no one pushed me in, which is always good news for me!  Seriously though, this was a great event and Cheshire East Council is happy to be of support.”

Senior swimmer Rebecca Emeny said: “We’re really pleased to be given this grant by the Council. It means we can use it on new equipment as well as keeping our fees down, which really helps us to attract new swimmers and keep existing swimmers interested and learning new things.”

Fellow senior swimmer John Crawford added: “It feels like the whole club has won a prize. I think this is really good for us, it will help with the development of all our swimmers and the club itself – so thank you for giving us the money.”

Dave Thomson, chairman of Nantwich Seals, said: “I’d like to thank Cllr Jones and the hard working staff at Cheshire East for all their support – and particularly for the grant of £3,000 to help the club.

“This will help us to keep our costs down and, fingers crossed, I hope that we will be able to enjoy continuing support in the future.”

Television producers switch on to the attractions of Cheshire East

 

Cheshire East is to feature in a host of television programmes after one of the busiest summers ever for filming in the Borough.

The rural village of Bunbury will be the setting for six-part Second World War drama Home Fires, starring Francesca Annis and Samantha Bond and produced by ITV Studios. It tells how members of the Women’s Institute hold the fabric of society together while their menfolk are away fighting.

Filming began earlier this month (September) and will continue until December, with some of the villagers appearing as extras.

The Real Housewives of Cheshire, an ITV reality show about the lives of glamorous women living around Alderley Edge and Wilmslow, will be shown in the new year on Freeview channel ITVBe.

Production company Monkey Kingdom has been filming footballers’ wives and successful businesswomen in the area’s country mansions, beauty salons, restaurants and bars and the programme will also feature local beauty spots including Tegg’s Nose Country Park in Macclesfield.

This autumn, viewers in the UK and US will see historic Arley Hall, near Knutsford, playing a major role in Evermoor, a mystery adventure about an American teenager who leaves the States behind for a new life in England.

In the drama, made by Hollyoaks producers Lime Pictures for the Disney Channel, the hall doubles as Evermoor Manor, where the 14-year-old lead character discovers a magical tapestry which seems to predict the future.

Arley Hall’s impressive double herbaceous borders also featured recently on BBC Two’s Great British Garden Revival.

And on BBC One’s A Taste of Britain this week (Wednesday, September 24 at 3:45pm) presenters Janet Street-Porter and Brian Turner will be visiting Cheshire Smokehouse, in Wilmslow, to try its smoked trout pate and touring the kitchen garden and rare breed farm on the Tatton Park estate.

Meanwhile, Crewe is to feature in a new a new series of Channel 4’s Three in a Bed, the reality show in which bed and breakfast owners review each other’s premises. Filming is due to take place in late September and early October.

In many cases there were financial spin-offs for local businesses after Cheshire East Council officers helped crews to find accommodation and premises locally, including an office in Bunbury for the Home Fires producers.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “We are very pleased to welcome so many film crews to the Borough as their output helps to showcase our beautiful scenery as well as our vibrant cultural and economic life, thereby boosting tourism and creating jobs. And I am looking forward to seeing Bunbury, where I live, featuring in Home Fires.”

Benefits cheat estate agent and her sister ordered to do community work over fake tenancies scam

 

An estate agent and her sister who embarked on a scam to fraudulently claim housing benefit have been ordered to repay the money and do unpaid community work.

South Cheshire Magistrates heard Lara Barrett, who was an employee of Crewe lettings agents, used her position to assist her sister Leanda to claim more than £1,000 in benefits by supplying her with counterfeit tenancy agreements.

Lara Barrett, 31, of Furnival Street, Crewe, who has since been sacked from her job, and Leanda Barrett, 21, of Railton Avenue, Crewe, pleaded guilty at court (in Crewe, on September 10, 2014) to fraud.

Magistrates heard that Lara Barrett produced three fake tenancy agreements while working for Wright Manley (now Wright Marshall) lettings in Crewe. She used one of these to attempt to claim housing benefit from Cheshire East Council.

The other two counterfeit forms she provided to her sister, Leanda, in order allow her to claim more than £1,000 in housing benefit.

Cheshire East Council’s benefit fraud investigation team uncovered the fraud during a probe into a discrepancy in the information provided for the benefit claims.

These investigations also discovered that Lara Barrett had forged one of her firm’s employee’s signatures to draw up the fake tenancy agreements.

At court, Lara Barrett admitted three offences of fraudulently drawing-up tenancies. (making a false instrument for pecuniary advantage). Leanda Barrett admitted one offence of fraudulently claiming benefits by false representation.

Both Lara and Leanda Barrett were sentenced to a 12-month community order, which will involve them each doing 40 hours’ unpaid work. Magistrates also ordered the pair to each pay £200 prosecution costs and £60 victim’s surcharge each and repay to the Council the fraudulently-obtained benefit money.

Sentencing magistrates reminded the pair that failure to comply with the courts order could result in them being jailed.

The council would like to thank Wright Manley (Wright Marshall) for their considerable assistance in both this investigation and in identifying the extent of the criminality undertaken.

Councillor Peter Raynes, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of finance, said: “This is a shameful case of two people deliberately setting out to defraud the public purse. Benefit fraud is plain wrong and will not be tolerated by this Council.

“Prosecutions such as this send out a clear message that Cheshire East is an enforcing Council and will take firm action to protect taxpayers from those who abuse the system.

“We can reassure the people of Cheshire East that we are committed to ensuring these offenders are brought to justice. Last year we successfully brought 48 prosecutions for benefit fraud – and we are keeping up the pressure to catch offenders.”

If you think someone is committing benefit fraud, you can ring the confidential freephone fraud hotline on 0800 389 2787. You don’t have to give your name and your call will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Alternatively, you can report suspected fraud via the Council’s website at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

MP’s 154th news bulletin

Friday, 19 September 2014

Welcome

Welcome to this, my 154th news bulletin.

Next week will see the Crewe and Nantwich Jobs Fair return to Crewe Alexandra FC.

In the last year, the number of jobseekers in Crewe and Nantwich has actually dropped by 34.7 per cent, and whilst this is a very positive sign, there are still people out there we can help get into work.

That's why, in partnership with the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and The Chronicle, I am organising another Jobs Fair, to be hosted at Crewe Alex next week from 10am on Thursday 25 September.  This will be the third Jobs Fair, which is proving to be a successful annual event.  More than forty local businesses and organisations have registered to attend, some for the first time, and all are offering jobs, apprenticeships or training opportunities.

Since the Government took office, the private sector has created over 2 million new jobs. 1.33 million of the jobs created have been full-time – three-quarters of the rise in employment.  This month, within 10 miles of the centre of Crewe, there are over 5,500 jobs advertised.  Increase that range to 20 miles and it's over 26,500.  In Crewe and Nantwich 1,338 jobseekers were recorded in July 2014.

So the jobs are out there, and it's a question of matching the right skills and the right people to the right job.

That's what the Jobs Fair is here to help achieve.  But it's not just a recruitment fair.  We'll have people on hand to provide advice about the skills and training you need to make yourself competitive in the jobs marketplace, with workshops taking place throughout the day.

So I look forward to welcoming anyone who is looking for a job or a change of career, to the Jobs Fair on Thursday.

Edward Timpson MP
Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich and Minister of the Year

Please remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me, or if there is anything I can do to assist you.

back to top

Locally, I have...

• Joined Bentley Motors apprentices and executives, at the official opening of the company's new apprenticeship training scheme at South Cheshire College.
• Celebrated the opening of this year's Nantwich Food and Drink Festival, (pictured, right) which this year attracted tens of thousands of visitors over its three days.
• Presented certificates at Nantwich Library to some of the avid readers aged 4 to 11, who completed this year's Summer Reading Challenge.
• Held the first of my Autumn 'On Your Street' surgeries on Parkers Road, Leighton.  Having spoken to local people, I am taking up several issues about road works, apprenticeships and Crewe Station with the relevant authorities.
• Visited Weaver Primary School in Nantwich to celebrate the launch of universal free school meals for all pupils in Reception, year 1 and year 2.
• Held two of my regular advice surgeries at my office in Crewe.  To make an appointment to speak to me about any issue or concern, please call my office, on 01270 501 725.
• Met with the organiser of a petition to preserve the former Cross Keys pub as a building important to Crewe's heritage, which has gathered more than 700 signatures from local people.
• Addressed members of the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Chamber's annual business luncheon.

back to top

Westminster Report

The latest edition of my Westminster Report has been delivered across Crewe and Nantwich, with the latest news on jobs and employment, as well as the major infrastructure investment that is coming our way.

You can click here or on the image to read a copy online.

back to top

MP buoyed by job opportunities ahead of fair

Crewe Chronicle: Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has said news on the employment front is good he prepares for this month’s jobs fair.

Mr Timpson is holding his third annual jobs fair at Crewe Alexandra’s stadium on Thursday, September 25.

“If you’re looking for work, now is a good time. Local unemployment and youth unemployment keep falling, and the number of opportunities keep increasing,” said the Conservative MP.

“The companies there will be advertising jobs and giving advice on a whole variety of different careers.  There will also be information on apprenticeships training and education.  Why not come along and see for yourself? You never know where it might lead!”

Mr Timpson said 74,000 businesses in the North West are already benefiting from the new employment allowance, which takes up to £2,000 off the National Insurance bill of every employer. It means that a business could now hire someone on £22,400 a year without paying any employer national insurance at all.

"In total up to 1.25 million employers will benefit from the allowance, with 450,000 taken out of paying the tax on jobs altogether, " said Mr Timpson.

"Reducing tax on jobs means that employers can afford to employ more people, creating more jobs here in Crewe and Nantwich, with the regular pay packet and the peace of mind for the future that comes with it."

He added that to help small businesses take on apprentices, the Government is providing an extra £85 million for over 100,000 grants to employers, and from April next year employer's national insurance contributions for those under 21 will be abolished, making it easier for businesses to take on more young people.

"This week I opened Bentley's apprentice facility at South Cheshire College, seeing the benefits first hand," he said.

back to top

Photo News

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I visited The Weaver Primary School in Nantwich to talk to staff and pupils about free school meals.  From the start of this term, all children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 in schools across England are entitled to a free hot meal at lunchtime every day.

back to top

Crewe Bentley opens new training facility for apprentices at college

MP and Bentley bosses say this shows their commitment to Crewe and the young people of the area

Crewe Chronicle: Bentley Motors is gearing up for the future in Crewe by signing up the highest number apprentices in a decade at its new dedicated training facility at South Cheshire College.

Company chairman and chief executive Wolfgang Durheimer flew in for Monday’s opening of the apprenticeship workshop and classroom-based facility at the Dane Bank Road college.

The training centre will focus on strengthening core skills as the luxury car maker prepares for the introduction of its SUV in 2016 and future growth.

The programme will utilise the dual education system, a tailored method based on competence profiles with about 70% of time devoted to practical and 30% to theoretical learning within chosen areas in manufacturing. The college course will be combined with weekly practical session at the Pyms Lane plant.

Mr Durheimer said: “Today is an important milestone.

“We are not only welcoming our apprentices to Bentley, but introducing them to a new dedicated facility and a brand new apprenticeship approach, inspiring them to pursue rewarding careers in engineering and manufacturing.

“The foundation of future skills and knowledge comes from recruiting apprentices who will, long-term, become our skilled professional experts and for them the hard, but very rewarding, work starts now.

“This new facility, and the use of dual education and our skilled experts will offer invaluable experience throughout and a pathway to a structured future.”

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson, who officially opened the new facility with the Bentley chairman, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to learn and to get experience that is of value in the real world. Having helped Bentley to secure a new university technical college recently, I am delighted that they are also continuing to invest in apprenticeships.”

He added: “This month their largest intake for over a decade will begin their training and will benefit from a new Bentley training facility and tailored curriculum. This is great news for young people in Crewe.”

back to top

Firm praises MP’s jobs fair after 10 new staff taken on

Crewe Chronicle: A Crewe-based company heaped praise on last year’s Jobs Fair organised by Edward Timpson after the accident management business took on 10 new applicants.

Representatives from Kindertons Accident Management said they prefer to hire people based on their personality and having face to face contact with prospective employees is crucial when finding the right candidates.

Human resources manager, Michael Lloyd, said: “We did it for the first time last year, a lot of the time we hire people based on their personality but looking through CV’s doesn’t always give you an idea of what a person is like, we actually employed 10 new staff members.”

Laura Miller, 28, who was offered a job six months after the Jobs Fair, said: “I had just come back from travelling and I had a qualification in HR, as soon as I went to the station I was drawn to Kindertons, after having a conversation with the HR manager he said they weren’t hiring, but he kept in contact with me over the next six months and I was offered the position in February.

“It can be quite mundane sat in front of a computer sending off your CV receiving rejection letter after rejection letter, so I think the Jobs Fair is a great way of showcasing your ability by giving employers a taste of who you really are.”

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson is to host his third annual jobs fair at the Crewe Alexandra FC stadium on Thursday, September 25.

back to top

5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

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

back to top

Campaign to stop a further 250 houses off Park Road in Willaston

 

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor Brian Silvester has started a campaign to stop further housing development in the green gap in  Willaston.

He said, ”A developer is to submit an application for 250 houses on 28 acres of land on a triangular site bounded by Park Road, the Nantwich by-pass and the railway line. (See attached and below)Willaston is under siege from developers because Conservative Councillors voted through two housing developments in the green gap and the Conservative run Cheshire East Council (CEC) does not have an adopted Local Plan and does not have a 5 year supply of housing land that is recognised by Government Inspectors. There have been three housing  applications for a total of 207 houses passed in the Green Gap in Willaston in the last 10 months. The last one, on land off Moorfields was passed on appeal. I pressed for that decision to be taken to judicial review and that is now to happen.

CEC need to get their act together speedily so this latest attack on the green gap can be refused and the refusal can be  confirmed on appeal.

I think this application should be to be refused because it would have had a significant detrimental impact on the open countryside and the Green Gap and would take good agricultural land out of production for ever. Also the application is unsustainable for a variety of reasons. Roads in Willaston are congested and dangerous now at peak times. Parking is already a nightmare for many Willaston residents, particularly in the Wistaston Road area. Recently some buses had to divert from the centre of the village because the congestion is so bad they cannot get through with the bus. To have over 500 more cars a day added to the traffic movements can only lead to further highway congestion, more parking problems, add to the accident numbers and the pollution concerns. The proposed development would have to come out onto Park Road because an access to the Nantwich by-pass would be too dangerous. Park Road is already a dangerous road, where  vehicles regularly speed and it is used as a rat run.

The local Primary School is already over subscribed and can’t take any more children. The Chairman of the Governors of the school has written to the Council to tell them that the school does not have the facilities for more children. There is already a flooding problem across the village after heavy rain and this further development will add to the pressure on the capacity of the sewers. The nearest Secondary School and Health Centre are not within a safe walking distance.

In summary there are good planning reasons to reject this appeal. I strongly feel that applications like this should be refused because they are detrimental to the open countryside, destroy the green gaps between our towns, use valuable agricultural land and are unsustainable.

I and the residents,the Willaston Green Gap Action Team and the Parish Council have another big battle on our hands and hopefully this time we will be victorious and our precious green gaps can be preserved for posterity.”

Cllr Brian Silvester BA (Hons)

Leader of the UK Independence Party Group

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor

Cheshire East Council

11 Rimsdale Close

Rope,Crewe

CW2 6RS

Tel/fax 01270 567757

Text     07760147609

www.twitter.com/cllrbsilvester

www.facebook.com/CllrBrianSilvester

Bridge Works

 

Cheshire East Highways will be carrying out bridge strengthening works on Hall Lane, Elton near Sandbach Hill Farm for up to 12 weeks starting September 29, 2014.

After assessment, the bridge requires strengthening and to do this a concrete saddle will be constructed over the arch of the bridge.

While the strengthening works are being undertaken, the bridge and the highway will need to be closed, as the whole of the existing bridge deck needs to be excavated to allow the concrete saddle to be made.

Additionally, during this time, the Highways Investment Programme will be carrying out a length of resurfacing on Hall Lane, between Clay Lane and Warmingham Lane, working within the road closure.

It is anticipated that the works will take up to 12 weeks to complete and during this time traffic will be diverted via

· Hall Lane

· Elton Road

· Salt Line Way

· Station Road

· London Road

· Mill Lane

· Dragons Lane

· Whitehall Lane

· School Lane

· Warmingham Road and return.

Cheshire East intervenes to ensure Junction 17 revamp will go ahead

 

The Leader of Cheshire East Council has moved swiftly to ensure that plans to upgrade junction 17 of the M6 and boost connectivity will go ahead.

The Council has had high-level talks with the Department for Transport to ensure that the original £3.2m pinch point scheme will go ahead, to be completed next summer, with the option to enlarge the roundabout subject to any future development of the Capricorn site.

Originally, the junction work was required to be completed by March 31, 2015, or government funding could have been pulled.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said people should be reassured that the Council had acted swiftly to ensure this vital scheme will be built.

He added: “We have intervened with the Department for Transport at the highest level and the scheme will go ahead regardless of developer contribution. We must have this roundabout for the people of Cheshire East and we will have it.

“The great news is that the pinch point scheme is being delivered in its entirety by the Highways Agency.

“The Council will continue to work with the developer and landowners to bring forward a high-quality employment site for the people of Sandbach and Cheshire.

“Connectivity is key for Cheshire East and its economic growth and this Council will always act to ensure we get the best connectivity for our residents and businesses.”

The pinch point funded scheme for J17 will provide a roundabout to the northbound slip road of the M6 and a traffic signal junction serving the southbound slip road.

The Council will work closely with the Highways Agency to ensure all appropriate measures are taken to minimise disruption to people when the ‘phase two’ larger roundabout is delivered to provide access to the development site.

Plan for a further 53 houses in the green gap in Rope likely to be refused

 

Willaston and Rope Ward Councillor Brian Silvester is pleased that an application for 53 houses in the green gap in his ward is being recommended for refusal and he hope the Councillors on the planning committee will heed that recommendation..See link.

http://moderngov.cheshireeast.gov.uk/ecMinutes/documents/s36612/14%203267N.pdf

He said, “In 2012 Wain Homes had an application for 80 houses off Rope Lane refused because it was in the Green Gap.(See phase 1 attached) They gained permission  on appeal and those houses are now being built. In the decision letter the Inspector said that the ‘the development would not materially reduce the physical or perceived separation of Shavington and Crewe.’ This latest application (see attached) will virtually obliterate the green gap between Shavington and the A500 and if the Gresty Oaks development is passed it will be gone for good. It would virtually destroy the Green Gap and the beautiful open countryside at the edge of Shavington and many acres of good agricultural land would be lost forever. It would be the latest step towards joining Crewe up with its surrounding villages. Most  people are aware of the ugly urban sprawl in places like Stoke on Trent and we do not want that on our doorstep.

Rope Lane is the main route to Shavington High School and Shavington village. Rope lane is congested and dangerous now at peak times.To have an additional 100  cars  added to the traffic movements can only lead to further highway congestion and add to the accident and pollution problems.  

No apparent regard has been taken of the fact that Swill Brook is a flood zone and that there is significant potential for flooding at the location of the proposed junction. Gresty Lane and gardens adjacent to the brook regularly flood now and this further development will only exasperate the flooding problems. Also the development would put extra pressure on local schools and NHS facilities which are already under pressure.

In summary there are good planning reasons to refuse this application. The Local Plan has been adopted  by the Council and is now awaiting Government approval. This site has not been included as one of the strategic housing sites in the Local Plan. The site is marked in the submitted local plan as ‘Proposed Green Belt Broad Area of Search. I strongly feel that this application should be rejected.  It is detrimental to the open countryside, it would mean the permanent loss of good agricultural land, it would bring further  traffic problems, it would exasperate the current flooding problems, it impinges massively on the green gap between our towns and is unsustainable.”

Cllr Brian Silvester BA (Hons)

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor

Cheshire East Council

11 Rimsdale Close

Rope,Crewe

CW2 6RS

Tel/fax 01270 567757

Text     07760147609

www.twitter.com/cllrbsilvester

www.facebook.com/CllrBrianSilvester

Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service September 2014 E-Newsletter - Firelink

 

---

 

 

Welcome to the September edition of the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service e-Newsletter.

---

On-call firefighters wanted for a new fire station in Alsager

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is looking for enthusiastic and willing people to work as on-call firefighters at a brand new station in Alsager, due to open in 2015. 

The Service will be holding three special recruitment events in Alsager town centre this September. These will provide the perfect opportunity for people to discover more about the role and have a go at the physical tests that would-be firefighters need to pass.

Find out more - On-call firefighters wanted for a new fire station in Alsager

---

Could you be an on-call firefighter in Audlem?

We are looking for enthusiastic and willing people to work as on-call firefighters at Audlem Fire Station. We want to meet people who are keen to work in a team environment and who would like to earn an additional income of around £5000 each year.

Being an on-call firefighter is an exciting and demanding role that allows people to make a real difference to their community and help to save lives. On-call firefighters get the same level of training as a full time firefighter to help them to operate in frontline situations.

Find out more - Could you be an on-call firefighter in Audlem?

---

Warning after two tumble dryer fires in Cheshire

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is issuing vital safety advice after two tumble dryer fires in the county in one night.

At 9.07pm on Wednesday 10 September, firefighters used one hose reel to extinguish a fire involving a tumble dryer in the kitchen of a house on St Mawgan Court, Warrington. No one was hurt in the incident and the crew isolated the power supply.

At 5:26am on Thursday 11 September, the Service was called to Kingsley Road in Frodsham to a fire involving a tumble dryer that had been put on overnight.

Find out more - Warning after two tumble dryer fires overnight in Cheshire

---

Step into Work - Apprenticeship in Workshops

Do you have passion and enthusiasm?  Do you want to earn while you learn and develop a trade and skill for life? Well look no further - this is the apprenticeship for you!

We are searching for new talent to join our exciting Step into Work Programme and become a Workshop Technician Apprentice.

This training opportunity will span over a period of two years and will offer the right candidate the chance to work in our busy Service workshops.

This opportunity will develop your skills to the highest standard in all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair work, where you will be working on a range of vehicles including cars, motorbikes, vans, LGVs, fire engines and specialist Fire and Rescue equipment.

Find out more - Step into Work - Apprenticeship in Workshops

---

Winter Safety

With winter just around the corner, we want people to stay safe both at home and on the roads.  Chimney fires are a risk as people start to warm up their homes and drivers are urged to make sure their vehicles are safe for the winter months.

Get your chimney ready for the winter

With the colder, winter months looming, people will begin to start using open fires and their chimneys again.  In order to keep you and your family safe from fire, you need to take necessary steps such as ensuring your chimney is swept regularly, depending upon what fuel you burn and we would urge all householders to have a working smoke alarm in their home.

Find out more - Get your chimney ready for the winter

Get your car ready for the winter

Of all the seasons, winter requires the most care and preparation if you're to stay safe whilst driving.

Find out more - Get your car ready for the winter

---

Fire Door Safety Week

We are supporting Fire Door Safety Week between 15 - 21 September 2014. Fire doors save lives and property.

Fire Door Safety Week is all about raising awareness of this critical element of fire safety in every commercial, public and multiple occupancy building.

Find out more - Fire Door Safety Week

---

Gas Safety Week

Gas Safety Week (15 - 21 September 2014) is a national safety campaign to raise awareness of gas safety.
September is the start of the heating season, many people will be turning on their boilers.  We rely on our gas boilers, cookers and fires to keep warm, have hot baths and showers and cook hot meals.

Find out more - Gas Safety Week

---

Older people's day at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service HQ

On Wednesday 1 October we are giving older people the opportunity to see behind the scenes at the Service headquarters as part of Ageing Safely Week (which runs from Monday 29 September to Sunday 4 October).

The Service is once again supporting the campaign with firefighters across the county doing various activities specifically aimed at engaging with older people throughout the week.

Find out more - Older people's day at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service HQ

CHESHIRE COMMUNITY ACTION

National survey paints portrait of village hall life: 12 million hours of volunteering, £11m of renovations and 38.6 million cups of tea

England’s 10,000 village halls rely on more than 12 million hours of volunteering each year to deliver their vital role at the heart of rural communities, a new survey has revealed.

The survey, by leading rural network ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England), showed volunteers who run classes and events put in 2.5 million hours annually. That’s on top of the estimated 9.6 million hours clocked up by management committees.

But more than half of the halls who responded said they were struggling to find new recruits to help manage the buildings – with people protesting that they were too busy, too old or simply not interested.

ACRE, which runs an information and advice service for village halls through its nationwide network of rural community councils, carried out the survey to identify what support halls need and to illustrate the social value they add to rural life.

At Cheshire Community Action (CCA), a member of the ACRE Network, the service is provided by Jim Bradley who works with over 90 village halls and rural community buildings across the county.

ACRE Village Halls Manager Deborah Clarke said: “People want to use village halls – but they don’t want to commit to running them. It’s understandable as there is a raft of duties to deal with, from licensing legislation to health and safety – but communities are in danger of taking their volunteers for granted.

“Younger people are especially hard to attract as they often work long hours away from villages in order to afford to live in them – while the newly retired often don’t want to commit.”

CCA’s Chief Operating Officer, Mark Reading said: “Village halls provide social activities, clubs, classes and essential services for every age group – helping to combat loneliness and build a sense of community spirit. It’s vital that people step up and volunteer to help halls move with the times – just an hour a week can make a difference.

“Anyone who wants to help run their village hall will no doubt be welcomed with open arms. You can get in touch with us to find out who to approach in your community.”

Key findings of the ACRE 2014 village halls survey include:

· Hall volunteers make a total commitment worth almost £85m annually, at a notional rate of £7 an hour.

· The average age of a village hall committee member is 58 – the age range stretches from 18 to 98.

· Each village hall hosts an average of nine life events, such as weddings, christening parties or wakes each year – a grand total of 90,000 gatherings.

· More than 15,000 events to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee were held at village halls in 2012.

· Village hall users and volunteers munch their way through a total of 47,500 packets of biscuits each week – washed down by 743,000 cups of tea. That’s nearly 2.5 million packets of biscuits and 38.6 million cups of tea each year – or 9.6 million litres (2.1 million gallons).

· An estimated £11m has been invested in work on village hall buildings in the past four years.

· The most popular uses for village halls are preschool and nursery groups; fitness classes; dance classes; clubs and groups for older people including luncheon clubs, retirement clubs, the University of the Third Age; and organisations for young people – including Scouts and Guides, youth clubs, and Girls’ and Boys’ Brigades.

· The survey showed the growth in popularity of fitness classes, particularly Pilates and Zumba, and dance activities from ballet to salsa.

· Around 1,000 village halls, or 10pc, host a community enterprise such as post office, community shop, coffee shop, library, cinema or farmers’ market. However, almost a quarter of all halls don’t derive any financial benefit from this activity.

· More than 90,000 individuals, small businesses and professionals use England’s village halls to earn their living, or part of it, during the year.

· Some of the more unusual activities at halls include Appalachian clog dancing, calligraphy, a big breakfast, a ‘Friendly Friday’ drop-in evening, curling and stick dressing.

· Nearly a quarter of halls were built before World War I, while an estimated 600 were built to commemorate World War I or individuals who perished during that conflict.

Jim Bradley can be contacted on 01606 350042 for information and advice.

The Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club (WJTC) Finals Day

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

The Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club (WJTC) Finals Day took place on Sunday 14th September 2014, in blustery but dry weather, on the two courts behind the Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre on Church Lane.

Bill Heath (WJTC Chairman) introduced the presentation of trophies inside the Memorial Hall:

- Men’s Singles Final: Paul Unwin beat Chris Raiswell 6-0, 6-4. Trophy presented by Bill Heath (WJTC Chairman).

- Men’s Doubles Final: Paul Unwin and Jonathan White beat Adrian Dunning and Chris Raiswell 6-4, 7-5. Trophies presented by Margaret Maddock (WJTC Vice Chairman).

- Presidents Cup Final: Kath Charlesworth and Eric James beat Hazel Dunn and Trevor Tutt 7-5, 6-3. Trophies presented by Alice Chalwin (WJTC President).

- Veterans Doubles Final: Roy Birtles and Tony Mason beat Ben Reinhardt and Trevor Tutt 6-3, 6-2. Trophies presented by Alice Chalwin (WJTC President).

- Open Doubles Final: Ben Reinhardt and Chris Raiswell beat Eric James and Nick Green 6-1, 3-6, 6-4. Trophies presented by Margaret Maddock (WJTC Vice Chairman).

- Junior Singles Final: Jack Whalley beat George Raiswell 6-4, 1-6, 6-1. Trophy presented by Bill Heath (WJTC Chairman).

- Most Improved Junior: James Raiswell. Shield presented by Bill Heath (WJTC Chairman).

Members of Wistaston B received shields for winning the Barbara Smith Knockout in the Winter League and winning Division 3 of the Spring League in the South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League: http://www.smctennis.co.uk/

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).

cycling to raise money for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research

Reporter Jonathan White, Crewe

Ben Reinhardt, from Crewe, is training hard for a forthcoming gruelling cycle ride. This Sunday 21^st September 2014 he will participate in the Birmingham Bikeathon http://leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/event/birmingham-bikeathon .

The event will require him to cycle 100 miles in a day with the route taking him from Broad Street in Birmingham to the Cotswolds and back to Broad Street Birmingham. He estimates it will take him 7 to 8 hours, averaging 15 miles an hour.

He is cycling to raise money for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research http://www.beatbloodcancers.org/ - who are a UK charity dedicated to improving the lives of patients with all types of blood cancer, including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

His webpage for donations is www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/node/53912 and he would appreciate any money for this charity.

Ben said, "I hope doing this cycle ride will enable more people to continue living. Every penny I raise will contribute to helping the fight to beat blood cancers."

The North West Triathlon

Reporter Jonathan White, Crewe

The North West Triathlon took place in Nantwich on Sunday 14th September 2014. The event was organised by UK Triathlon - http://www.uktriathlon.co.uk . Over 900 competitors took part and entered either the Sprint, Super Sprint or Fun race distance, or the Team Relay. The Sprint involved a 500m swim, 20km cycle ride and 5km run; Super Sprint involved a 200m swim, 20km cycle ride and 2.5km run; and Fun involved a 200m swim, 20km cycle and 2.5km run. The Team Relay involved a 500m swim, 20km cycle and 5km run with one competitor for each leg. The outdoor brine pool at Nantwich Swimming Pool was used for the swimming, roads in and around Nantwich for the cycling, with the running discipline taking place on the grass of the Barony Park in Nantwich. There was a medal and an optional massage as a reward for finishing, along with the satisfaction of completing a demanding multiple-stage competition. The Barony Park also featured refreshment stalls, the opportunity to buy an event photo, and a bouncy castle and slide for the children. The competitors and the hundreds of spectators watching and cheering had warm weather all day. Full results are available here: http://www.uktriathlon.co.uk/events/north-west-triathlon/#race-results

Leader causes mayhem in his own Council by announcing he wants to abolish it just 5 years after it was created

 

Cllr Michael Jones made a bombshell announcement that he wanted to abolish his own Council, just 5 years after it had been formed. http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/council_information/media_hub/media_releases/previous_media_releases/media_releases_september_2014/reunification_of_cheshire.aspx

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor Brian Silvester said,

“Cllr Jones suggested that Cheshire East and Cheshire West should be abolished to be replaced by a Cheshire Unitary Council. Understandably this has put the fear of God into the staff. The new Council is just settling down after 5 years of tumult and turmoil and he throws the whole thing back into the air again. It is a highly irresponsible thing to do.There is no support for it in the East or the West and even members of his own party have denounced it.The Government have made it clear that they will  not allow yet further rounds of disruptive re-organisation.I was a Council Leader during the last unwanted re-organisation.Cllr Jones was not even a Councillor so he does not know the heartache and stress the reorganisation causes staff. I call upon Cllr Jones to immediately withdraw his call to abolish Cheshire East and in future think before he opens his mouth.

I suspect this call is just an attempt  to distract attention from the real issues. Issues like having no Adopted Local Plan and no five year supply of housing land which has resulted in a planning fiasco where developers are busily concreting over our beautiful green fields.Cllr Jones should concentrate  on sorting out these problems and  not shoot from the hip with hare-brained ideas.”

Cllr Brian Silvester BA (Hons)

UKIP Group Leader

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor

Cheshire East Council

11 Rimsdale Close

Rope,Crewe

CW2 6RS

Tel/fax 01270 567757

Text     07760147609

www.twitter.com/cllrbsilvester

www.facebook.com/CllrBrianSilvester

Campaign to stop enormous slurry lagoon in open countryside

Willaston and Rope Ward UKIP Councillor Brian Silvester is supporting residents and the surrounding Parish Councils and Borough Councillors in their objections to a proposed enormous slurry lagoon in the open countryside off Rope Hall Lane, Rope. (See below)

He said,’The size of this lagoon is not a small pool, as usually found on farms but is very substantial, almost twice the size of two Olympic swimming pools and also deeper. The entire area of the application site is a huge 300 acres The roads to access the site are very narrow, there are no footpaths and no street lighting. It is expected that two million gallons of slurry a year will be brought to the lagoon and the thousands of lorries required to transport it will be a danger on these narrow roads. Eastern Road and Rope Hall Lane are two of the access routes to the Shavington High School so all these lorries on the country lanes will be highly dangerous. Some of the waste will be coming from the Muller yoghurt factory in Market Drayton.

Apart from the noxious smell, slurry lagoons harbour vast amounts of harmful bacteria which can be spread on the wind to adjacent properties and the school and thereby I believe  present a very real health hazard to children and neighbours. Also when the tank is full if the residue is spread on the surrounding  300 acres it will be a health hazard and generate horrendous smells and flies and insects. Shavington Borough Councillor, David Brickhill  has requested a report from the Environmental Health Department on the disposal of Muller waste in Barthomley by Mr Abell and that a qualified bacteriologist lists the bacteria that exist in slurry lagoons and whether these can be spread to adjacent properties by wind or movement of vehicles livestock or humans. 

There are no plans showing how the slurry will be isolated from the watercourses especially in time of heavy rain when it might overflow to adjacent fields. I regard this proposal a real danger to the people of the area and it should not be approved. The planning committee should consider whether a slurry lagoon is an appropriate development in this residential and educational environment or whether it will be a real danger and nuisance to the community. Residents have until the 17^th of September to object.

Rogue trader who sold pups that fell ill and died is banned from running pet shop and ordered to pay out more than £7,000

A rogue trader who illegally sold puppies that fell ill and died has been banned from running a pet shop and ordered to pay out more than £7,000.

David Rowley, 49, of Liverpool Road East, Church Lawton, near Alsager, pleaded guilty at South Cheshire Magistrates’ Court, in Crewe, to four offences of keeping a pet shop without a licence, under the 1951 Pet Animals Act.

The prosecution by Cheshire East Council followed complaints from four members of the public who bought spaniel pups from Rowley’s home that later fell ill and died.

The court heard Rowley sold two cavalier King Charles spaniel puppies and two cocker spaniel pups to members of the public between January 4 and February 16 this year. The pups soon fell ill and died from pneumonia and parvovirus infections. Rowley was successfully prosecuted by Cheshire East’s regulatory services and health team.

Under the 1951 Pet Animals Act, anyone who buys in puppies to sell (and is not the original breeder) needs to have a pet shop licence and needs to be clear to customers about the provenance of the puppies sold.

During sentencing at Chester Crown Court (September 5, 2014), Rowley was fined £333 for each offence (a total of £1,332). He faces jail if he does not pay up within 18 months.

He was also ordered to pay more than £5,400 in compensation, a further £500 court costs and banned from running a pet shop for a year.

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cheshire East Cabinet member in charge of communities and regulatory services, said: “Prosecutions such as this send out a clear message that we are an enforcing Council and will take firm action to protect our communities, residents and vulnerable animals from rogue traders.

“Illegal trading will not be tolerated – especially when animal lives and welfare are at stake.

“It is important, for everyone’s benefit, to raise awareness of rogue trading and fraud.  We would advise the public to check that people dealing in puppies and other pets have the proper licence and breeders’ credentials – and to alert the Council if they have any concerns.”

If you have any concerns that someone might be trading illegally, you can call Cheshire East Council’s regulatory services and health team on 0300 1235015 or email them at environmentalprotection@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Latest phase of Cheshire East’s £25m road improvements unveiled

 

Cheshire East has put the finishing touches to its latest scheme as part of its £25m investment in improving local roads.

Cheshire East’s highways team has just completed resurfacing of 1.3km of the A533 Sandbach Road, at Rode Heath – and the benefits of the smartly-resurfaced road will be appreciated by the local community and visiting road users alike.

The project, carried out over five days, is part of Cheshire East Council’s £25m highways investment programme.

Local ward Councillor Rhoda Bailey was on hand to run the rule over work and is pleased with the results.

Cllr Bailey said: “Having promoted this scheme from the start, I was particularly pleased to have observed the initial process of resurfacing this road. I’m sure that the local community will be delighted with the finished result.”

Councillor David Topping, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of environment, said: “This is yet more good news for road users in Cheshire East and I thank Cllr Bailey for her sterling work helping bring the need for this resurfacing scheme to our attention. 

“This work on the A533 is just the latest phase in our long-term commitment to investing in and improving our road network for the benefit of local people, businesses and visitors.

“We know that the people of Cheshire East care passionately about the state of their local roads. This big investment scheme across the whole Borough is targeted at those areas with the greatest need and greatest long-term benefit – and shows our commitment to putting residents first and delivering for local people.”

This year’s highways investment programme began in March and will be completed by the end of October.  During this period, more than 200 schemes will be delivered, repairing and replacing 238km of road – which is nine per cent of the network.

A variety of treatments are used, depending on the existing road condition. Surface dressing is now complete, with micro-asphalt surfacing due for completion later this month. About 40 per cent of the resurfacing has now been completed.

Significant works have been carried out on some of Cheshire’s busiest parts of the road network at weekends and at night to reduce the impact on road users and the public.

Cheshire East’s highways network consists of 2,674km of road, 2,060km of footways, 38,000 street lights and 484 bridges, as well as a large number of other assets.

Cheshire East’s highway network is the Council’s largest asset and is vital to the functioning and economic wellbeing of the Borough.

Eyecare is as easy as ABC for Crewe & Nantwich school children

 

WITH summer holidays over and a new school year now underway, Crewe & Nantwich opticians are advising that now is the ideal time for children to have their eye health checked. 

According to the Association of Optometrists, up to 1 million children in the UK have an undetected vision problem and as a consequence some are struggling to concentrate in class which can lead to poor performance in school¹.

Good eyesight is one of the most important tools to aid a child’s learning and if their eyesight is not in top condition it can result in frustration for the child and may also impact their development.

Michael Elleray, store director at Crewe Specsavers in Market Street, says: ‘Children should have their eyes tested at least every two years from the age of three in order to maintain optimum health. As they continue to develop and change, more regular examinations may be required, particularly if there is a family history of sight problems.’

He continues: ‘Undetected problems with vision can damage a child’s confidence and performance, especially in activities such as reading and sports that require hand-eye co-ordination and so regular eye tests are vital.’ 

Michael Elleray concludes: ‘Subtle signs such as poor handwriting, clumsiness or falling behind peers at school, can be an indication of visual difficulties, so it is important children undergo an eye examination at the earliest opportunity.’

Most infants and pre-school children have regular vision screening as part of their routine developmental checks. These early tests are invaluable, but are not as thorough as a full eye examination by a qualified optometrist. At Specsavers the test is designed to be friendly and fun for kids of all ages.

Eye examinations for children under 16 and in full time education are available free on the NHS; call your local store to find out more.

To book your next appointment at Specsavers Crewe call 01270 250707 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/Crewe.  To book your next appointment at Specsavers Nantwich call 01270 621660 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/Nantwich.

Festival of Beer’ at The Globe Inn, Nantwich.

Reporter Jonathan White, Crewe

The Globe Inn - http://www.globenantwich.co.uk/ - in Nantwich held their inaugural ‘Festival of Beer’ from Friday 12^th to Sunday 14^th September 2014. The inn, located on Audlem Road, presented 41 real ales from around the country along with a hog roast, live local music and children’s entertainment.

The music was performed in a marquee on their car park and featured Marc Gallagher, Photo Booth Smile, Josh Whittaker, Charlotte Birch, Ben Stubbs, Mark Brisbourne, Blue Fish, Abi Ozzard and Rachael Roberts.

The event is part of ‘Paint the Town Red’, in association with RedShift Radio http://www.redshiftradio.co.uk/ , to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young C.R.Y For Matthew, http://cry-for-matthew.org.uk/ . C.R.Y For Matthew was setup in 2012 in memory of 17 year old Matthew Dewhirst who passed away suddenly playing rugby with an undetected heart defect. Since then Matthew’s parents have been campaigning for heart-screenings to be carried out on young people aged 14 to 30.

The forthcoming ‘Paint the Town Red’ events are:

-Thursday 18^th September 2014 – 7-10pm - ‘Late Summer Soiree’ at Residence Restaurant & Bar, Mill Street Nantwich. Special guest Steve Davis, Crewe Alex Football Club manager, who is the Patron of the C.R.Y for Matthew campaign. Tickets = £15 for buffet and music.

-Tuesday 30^th September 2014 – 9am-4:30pm - all day community networking at Nantwich Town Football Club, The Weaver Stadium, Waterlode. Entry = £6 in advance or £10 on the door.

South Cheshire Model Engineering Society Open day

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

South Cheshire Model Engineering Society held their annual open day on Saturday 13th September 2014.

This free event took place on their premises at the rear of the Peacock Hotel, Crewe Road, Willaston CW5 6NE.

There were miniature-gauge steam, petrol and electric train rides, a display of larger gauge locomotives, a demonstration of equipment used by the hobby engineer of yesteryear in 'Mike's Shed', a display including tugs and barges by Crewe & District Model Boat Club; whilst the Clubhouse contained a display of locomotives and engines produced by Society members.

Refreshments were served by Society volunteers in the Clubhouse, with further refreshments available outside from the Wilson House Scouts http://www.wilsonhousescouts.org.uk/ .

There was musical accompaniment from the British Organ Grinders Association http://www.melright.com/boga/ .

The event was enjoyed by hundreds of visitors who were treated to warm and sunny weather all day.

Weather permitting there is a Sunday train ride on 21^st September (diesel hauled from 12 midday, steam hauled from 1pm to 3:30pm).

The Society currently has eighty members and meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7.45pm in their Clubhouse. For further information relating to the Society please visit: http://www.southcheshiremes.com .

I’ve uploaded all my photos to: https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanawhite/sets/72157647508290176/

Council Leader calls for reunification of Cheshire

 

Council Leader Councillor Michael Jones is calling for the reunification of Cheshire in a bold move designed to bring back a county council for the borough.

Today’s announcement follows months of talks between the Leader and multi-agency partners about how to improve Cheshire’s offer to its residents.

The Leader, who stressed the idea was his own personal view, said: “Cheshire East Council was formed following Local Government Reorganisation in 2009, when Cheshire County Council was effectively carved into two, the other half being Cheshire West.

“The two authorities were made weaker as a result, yet mirror one another in terms of their people and aspirations.

“It didn’t make much sense then and it still doesn’t! Yes, Cheshire East as a local authority is a great success and I’m sure Cheshire West would say the same about their council.

“But the fact remains, it was a bad decision and the people weren’t behind it and I suspect many are still not.

“What I’m calling for today is a review of our separated and divided local government as I set out my ambition for a unified Cheshire Council that serves the needs of all Cheshire residents.

“A unified and strong Cheshire would reduce Council Tax liability for every household to the tune of around £100.

“I want to throw open the debate about ‘One Cheshire’! Yes, or no? I think it’s got a great feel to it. What do residents think?”

Grab your chance to experience the rich culture of Cheshire for FREE

 

Grab your chance to experience the rich cultural heritage of Cheshire East for FREE.

Cheshire East cultural attractions are taking part in the national Heritage Open Days scheme, which runs from Thursday through to Sunday (September 11-14 inclusive).

Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to places that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission.

With so many museums, historic houses, gardens and galleries, Cheshire is rich with history and heritage and visitors are able to journey through time across the county.

So don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit fantastic sites in our beautiful Borough this week – at no cost to your pocket!

Councillor Rachel Bailey, heritage champion for Cheshire East, added: “These open days are a fantastic opportunity for families to have great days out discovering the rich cultural offer of Cheshire East – and all for free.

“They always have lots to offer visitors and I’m sure it will be a fantastic four days of events to stimulate minds, excite the senses and fire the imagination.”

Some of Cheshire’s favourite museums will be offering free entry over the Heritage Open Days period, including Cheshire Military Museum, Macclesfield Silk Museum, Congleton Museum, the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, Norton Priory Museum and Gardens and Port Sunlight Museum.

In addition, visitors will be able to discover more about the museums of Cheshire through special talks and tours taking place at the Grosvenor Museum, Charles Roe House, Weaver Hall Museum, Stretton Mill, the Lion Salt Works, Paradise Mill, Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum, Birkenhead Priory and the Williamson Art Gallery in Wirral.

Other special activities include film showings of rarely-seen archive footage at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, displays of Victorian toys and artefacts and memory-sharing at Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum, birds of prey displays at Halton Castle, special Salt Tours in Nantwich (charges do apply for salt tours) and an Open Village event in Port Sunlight.

Congleton Museum will be opening Bradshaw House between 10am and 3pm each day. 

Come and see this Georgian landowners’ town house, the museum’s proposed new home. This will be the first time the house has been open to the general public.

In Macclesfield, people have the chance to explore the fabulous Grade II listed home of silk industry pioneer Charles Roe, with its remarkable ‘barley sugar’ staircase, wall panelling and fireplaces.

You will also get the chance to view a major new exhibition of exquisite antique furniture and art and be inspired by the creative talents of Cheshire artists and gain an insight into the creative process. For more information, contact: Macclesfield Visitor Information Centre on 01625 378123.

The Cheshire Archives service is running three sessions here as part of Heritage Open Days.  For more information visit:  www.heritageopendays.org.uk/directory/cheshire-record-office.

Whatever your age or interest, there will be plenty to see and do with the family in Cheshire over the Heritage Open Days weekend.

Heritage Open Days are celebrating 20 years of existence this month.

Under the scheme, every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and use throw open their doors. It is a once-a-year chance to discover architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities that bring local history and culture to life.

With so much to see and do free of charge and right on people’s doorstep, Heritage Open Days is an event for everyone, whatever their background, age and ability.

Cheshire East Council saves local taxpayers £5m

 

Cheshire East Council has saved the Borough’s taxpayers £5 million without cutting services, the Authority’s Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee will hear at its meeting on Thursday September 11.

Council leader Councillor Michael Jones said: “This is fantastic news and once again demonstrates our commitment to making savings, whilst maintaining services.

“Predictions are that we expect to be in a position to continue along this path well into the next financial year 2015/16.”

Significant reductions have been achieved in management costs; as much as 19% at top tier level and 22 % in the middle tier.

Improving management arrangements across the board have contributed to the savings which have delivered a leaner, more efficient workforce.

At its meeting on Thursday, the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee will hear that the outcomes of a Management Review delivered a ‘significant overall reduction’ in the numbers of management posts, even after allowing for necessary increased capacity in priority areas such as economic growth and social care, and alignment of all new posts with the Council’s new operating model as a Strategic Commissioning organisation.

The review rationalised posts across several grades from senior management positions to frontline team leaders and supervisors.

In February, 2014 Cheshire East Council announced a council tax freeze for the fourth year running to help ease the pressure on running costs of every household.

Council Leader Councillor Michael Jones said: “This is the strongest financial position we have been in since Cheshire East was formed and enables us to stick to our commitment to keep costs down and providing maximum value for money.

“It also proves that as an authority we are true to our word when we say that we put the residents and businesses of Cheshire East first and foremost.”

The 19th ‘Annual Community Duck Race and Children's Model Boat Race’

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

-Best designed children's model boat winner – l-r Hall President John Cooke - Wistaston Rose Queen (Lucy Rowland) - Attendant (Charlotte Shaw) - Rebecca Jones

-Wistaston Rose Queen (Lucy Rowland) with Attendant and friends on her charity stall to raise money for Cancer Research UK and the Wistaston Scout Group

The 19th ‘Annual Community Duck Race and Children's Model Boat Race’ took place on Saturday 6th September 2014, at the Joey the Swan Recreation ground in Wistaston, with the permission of the Wistaston Parish Council.

The event, which was sponsored by Wistaston Community Council and the Crewe Cine & Video Club, was officially opened by the Wistaston Rose Queen (Lucy Rowland) and her Attendant (Charlotte Shaw). Members of the Hall's Management Committee organised the event. 49 model boats were entered into the Children's Model Boat Race, 874 duck race tickets were sold and their ducks entered into the Duck Race; the largest number in recent history.

All proceeds go to the modernisation of the disabled toilet project at the Wistaston Memorial Hall & Community Centre, Church Lane, Wistaston. There were also twelve stalls featuring local charities and organisations. Several hundred people attended this community event, which took place in glorious sunshine. The Wistaston Memorial Hall’s committee sincerely thank all those who helped to make the event a success in many ways, which raised £730 in total.

People came from all over England to see this quacking event – from Wakefield and Milton Keynes and as far away as SWANsea and DUXford. The Hall’s President, John Cooke, escorted the Rose Queen around the stalls.

Here are the results in full:

Children's Model Boat Race (49 model boats entered):

a) Best designed children's model boat (judged by Wistaston Rose Queen, Lucy Rowland and her Attendant, Charlotte Shaw):

1st – Rebecca Jones who won £5 and a trophy

2nd – Jess Edwards

3rd – Naomi Dean.

b) Children's Model Boat Race organised by India Sloan and George Raiswell and started by Wistaston Rose Queen, Lucy Rowland. Boats of many shapes and sizes, made by the children, meandered around various obstacles, with teal and pochard in evidence:

1st – Alex Huxley with boat ‘The Green Creeper’ - wins £5, plus trophy donated by Herbert Locke MBE.

2nd – Charles Calder (Calder Boys)

3rd – Chloe Brereton (The Beach Party)

4th – Daniel Fowler (Heavy Load).

Duck Race (874 tickets sold):

1st – No. 803 – Marcel - wins £100, plus trophy donated by Les Fothergill. The winner came from the USA and was delighted with her awards.

2nd – No. 353 – Bethany - £50.

3rd – No. 15 – Thomas Astbury - £25.

Maureen Bellis, the Hall’s Treasurer, supervised the ticket sellers – Audrey, Valerie, Helen, Helena and Bill.

The traffic controller was Meurig Jones. The race marshals were Mark Ray, Jonathan White and Rob Dutton. The stalls were organised by Glenys White.

Event organiser John White said, "This was another successful mallardesque community enterprise for Wistaston. The Memorial Hall's officers worked so hard to run the event. People who visited were most generous to buy so many tickets. I was pleased to hear that the stall holders and charities did well. The children were excited and eager to see their boats in action. It was a quacking great top of the bill success. We were fortunate with the weather. So many people helped to set up and take down the equipment; we thank them all. The Parish Council and conservationist Dave O’Hara had prepared the course. We can't wait for the 20^th Duck Race on Saturday 5th September 2015, which will celebrate twenty years of ducking and diving – we must be quackers!"

I’ve uploaded all my photos to: https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanawhite/sets/72157646976940278/

The 2014 Slazenger South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League Presentation Afternoon

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

The 2014 Slazenger South and Mid Cheshire Tennis League Presentation Afternoon (plus two tournaments) took place at Congleton Lawn Tennis Club - http://congletontennis.co.uk - on Sunday 7th September.

There were open doubles and veterans doubles tournaments, organised by John White (Wistaston) and Viv Gorst (Nantwich), involving thirty-two players from a variety of clubs. The open doubles tournament, for the Jane Astbury Shield, was won by Chris Jackson (Nantwich Farmers) and Emily Parker (Nantwich). The veterans doubles tournament, for the Tim Griffiths Shield, was won by Chris Raiswell (Wistaston) and Dave Clarke (Hartford).

Wonderful refreshments were prepared by June Bowyer and Marion Doe. The refreshments were followed by the presentation of trophies from the league competitions (see winners list below).

Local winners were Nantwich, Audlem, Wrenbury and Wistaston. Nantwich A won the Ladies Division 1 Summer League for the 31st time!

The Stonelake Shield Sporting Award was presented to Craig Robinson from Congleton Lawn Tennis Club for his sportsmanship which epitomises the best qualities of tennis in the League.

League Chairman Dave Clarke said, "I would like to thank Congleton 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 2013-14 winners is:

SUMMER LEAGUES 2014

Ladies Division 1 - Nantwich A

Ladies Division 2 - Cuddington A

Ladies Division 3 - Audlem A

Ladies Division 4 - Nantwich C

Men's Division 1 - Congleton A

Men’s Division 2 - Hartford C

Men’s Division 3 - Hartford E

Men’s Division 4 - Holmes Chapel A

Men’s Division 5 - Holmes Chapel B

Mixed Division 1 - Congleton A

Mixed Division 2 - Nantwich B

Ladies Knockout - Nantwich A

Ladies Handicap Knockout - Holmes Chapel C

Les Hoff Men’s Knockout - Congleton A

Les Beckett Men’s Knockout - Hartford F

Jane Astbury Mixed Knockout - Congleton A

Dave Clarke Veterans KO - Nantwich A

Stonelake Shield Sporting Award - Craig Robinson (Congleton).

WINTER LEAGUES 2013

Division 1 - Congleton A

Division 2 - Nantwich B

Division 3 - Hartford

Division 4 - Cuddington C

Division 5 - Wrenbury C

Ray Jones Knockout - Hartford

Barbara Smith Knockout - Wistaston B

SPRING LEAGUES 2014

Division 1 - Congleton A

Division 2 - Hartford

Division 3 - Wistaston B

Division 4 - Nantwich C

Division 5 - Alsager D