The Crewe Christmas lights switch-on

Reporter Mark Ray, Crewe

The Crewe Christmas lights switch-on took place on Friday 25th November 2016 on the Market Square.

Jonty Sargeant from Signal 1 compered the event. Entertainment on stage included music from TheFunkyChoir.com and Paul Snook Band.

There were activities for children and families with the opportunity to have a photo with Santa sponsored by Kids Planet Crewe, along with face painting, stilt walkers, a juggler, Christmas characters, and a mini-funfair.

There were numerous stalls including South Cheshire College, CE Youth Support League, Swinton Insurance, Simply Gourmet Ltd, The Little Italian Van, Haslington Bakery, Candy Floss Van.

Following a countdown the lights were switched on by Mayor of Crewe Councillor Marilyn Houston, Mayoress of Crewe Pauline Kowalski, two students from South Cheshire College, and Aladdin and the Princess from Crewe Lyceum's pantomime.

The switch-on was followed by a firework display by Crewe-based company Blitz Fireworks.

The event was organised by Crewe Town Council in partnership with Signal 1 and was enjoyed by thousands of people.

The switch-on also marked the start of late-night shopping until 8pm every Thursday in Crewe during December (including 19th-23rd).

Nantwich brothers triumph in national apprentice awards

 

Talented brothers William and Andrew Emerton are officially two of the best young roofers in Great Britain after triumphing in a national skills competition.

William, 21, who studied at Leeds College of Building, won the ‘Roof: Slating and Tiling’ discipline of the SkillBuild 2016 final, a competition organised and supported by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). His brother Andrew, 19, took the bronze medal in the roofing category. Both William and Andrew work for their long established family business, Emerton Roofing (Western) Limited in Nantwich, Cheshire.

Emerton Roofing’s roots go back to 1925, when Ralph W. Emerton set up in business as a slater and tiler in Crewe. From here the company expanded until 1950 when his son Gerald Emerton joined the firm and took the business to the next level, including incorporating flat roofing and roof restoration on historical buildings. In 1962 Gerald formed Emerton Roofing (Western) Limited, as a limited company. Gerald was later joined in the steadily growing company by his son, current Managing Director, Simon in 1980. In the following years, Emerton Roofing have continued to offer an award winning service across the UK, specialising in traditional slating, clay and concrete tiling, roof leadwork and a variety of flat roofing methods.

In 2013 William and Andrew, who studied at Malbank High School, joined the family business as young apprentices, quickly gaining Level 2 status in Slating and Tiling at Bolton Construction College. They then went onto Leeds College of Building where they have completed their Level 3 Slating and Tiling qualification. Their good work on the course prompted tutor, Chris Messenger, to enter the brothers into one of the regional heats of the ‘SkillBuild’ competition. SkillBuild has been running for over 45 years and sees the very best in construction talent compete against each other to be crowned the SkillBuild winner in their chosen trade. The competitions assess an individual’s knowledge, practical skills and employability attributes against a set of strict criteria. The competition is run by CITB, covering ten craft occupations; including Bricklaying, Carpentry, Stonemasonry and Roofing. The roofing section is organised by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.

In regional heat held at Leeds, the brothers managed to qualify for the national final, held last weekend (17-19 November) as part of ‘The Skills Show’ at Birmingham’s NEC. The 8 finalists were then set a 19 hour task across 2 and a half days in which they had to combine their slating and tiling skills against a strict 300 point specification. William and Andrew excelled and were very proud to be presented with the gold and bronze medal respectively.

William now has a chance to compete in 2018 representing the UK at the WorldSkills final in Latvia.

Cheshire East Council supports White Ribbon Day

 

Cheshire East Council is calling on people to support White Ribbon Day and help raise awareness of the campaign to stop violence against women.

The council leadership has reaffirmed the pledge ‘never to commit, condone or remain silent about men's violence against women’.

As part of this campaign it supported a ‘Getting It Right Together’ event for members of the public and service providers, hosted at Congleton Town Hall yesterday by Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Partnership. 

Those who attended listened to the experiences of people directly affected, made a commitment to improving the way services respond and discussed priorities for the next three years. They also showed their support for children’s rights to live free from fear in their homes as part of November Children’s Rights Month.

November 25 has been White Ribbon Day, or the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, since it was inaugurated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999. It is part of the international White Ribbon Campaign – one of the world’s largest men’s anti-violence programmes.

Cheshire East Council has been a proud supporter of the campaign for more than six years. Members of the council workforce are demonstrating their commitment by wearing the iconic white ribbon.

Councillor David Brown, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “There is no place or justification for violence against women and girls. I am proud to wear the white ribbon and be part of this important campaign. We want all residents of Cheshire East to feel safe and be supported.”

Councillor Janet Clowes, Cheshire East’s Cabinet member for adult care and integration, said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with public sector and charitable organisations to help prevent and reduce the great harm caused by domestic abuse and sexual violence against women and girls.”

While the international campaign recognises that most men are not violent towards women and all of our services support both sexes, men all over the world are helping to raise awareness of the anti-violence message. The council is urging residents of Cheshire East to make a stand against violence towards women and to make the white ribbon pledge.

For more information visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk or follow us @CheshireEast

If you are affected by domestic abuse – whether you are a man or a woman – or you are concerned for someone else, phone Cheshire East’s domestic abuse hub on 0300 123 5101 at any time. In an emergency always call 999.

Call for Labour Candidate to apologise after obscene gesture.

 

The Labour Candidate for the Crewe West by-election,Tasha Maroni, tweeted a photo of herself giving the middle finger in front of the street name of where her UKIP opponent,Cllr Brian Silvester, lives.(See attached photo)

Cllr Silvester said," It is totally inappropriate for a Candidate to be making vile,obscene gestures like this.What on earth was she thinking of? 

It was a very childish and immature thing to do.She is not not fit to represent her constituents.They deserve better,no matter what party they are.

She should apologise to me,all the residents of Rimsdale Close and the electors of Crewe West.

Also the Labour Party should take disciplinary action against her."

Most people will be shocked to learn that, five months after the EU referendum,the Conservative Government is still refusing to guarantee that EU citizens,legally residing in towns like Crewe,will be allowed to remain after we leave the EU.Have the Tories now moved to the far right? Have they left leave of their senses? Is there any local Conservative willing to support this despicable approach? What does Edward Timpson MP think of this extreme right wing policy?
UKIP, like all other parties,but not the Conservatives,agree that EU citizens, who are legally living in UK,should be allowed to remain in the UK after Brexit. That is the correct and the moral thing to do.I am sure that the many decent members of the Conservatives locally will agree with that and they should speak out before more damage is done to their party.

We all want to protect the interest of Brits living in the EU after Brexit but it is entirely wrong to use EU citizens legally settled here as a bargaining chip. They need an assurance that their remaining in the UK after Brexit is not in question.

yours faithfully,

Cllr Brian Silvester

Crewe West UKIP Candidate

Winter Wellbeing – doorstep crime

 

Cheshire East Council and its partners are offering a range of advice and support to residents on how to keep warm, well and safe this winter.

This week, we discuss doorstep crime and rogue traders looking to make a ‘quick buck’.

The festive season is a special time, filled with joy and celebration, but there are a few people who use it to take advantage of others.

Each year millions of people in the UK fall prey to scammers, costing victims in the region of £5 billion per year.

Scams come through the post, over the phone, by text message, online and face to face.

Anyone can fall victim to a scam, with older and vulnerable adults more at risk, and the effects on that person can quite often be devastating.

That’s why the council is urging people to be wary of rogue traders and doorstep criminals this winter.

Here are a few signs that may give a scam away and a couple of tips to help to protect yourself:

· If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is;

· You shouldn’t have to pay anything upfront to claim a prize;

· If you are contacted out of the blue, then you should be suspicious;

· Don’t be rushed and try and resist pressure to make a decision about a purchase straight away;

· Never give out your personal details or send money to someone you have never met;

· Don’t suffer in silence – speak out about scams.

Rogue trading is a national problem, with evidence suggesting burglaries are sometimes associated with rogue traders.

Offenders often travel vast distances to commit offences related to gardening or maintenance work at attractive rates – but the quality of work is substandard, unnecessary and overpriced. 

They also use persuasive sales techniques to encourage people into making hasty decisions.

For work costing more than £42 and where the contract is formed in a place away from the trader’s business address, e.g. a resident’s home address, there is a requirement in law for traders to provide cancellation rights. 

This gives 14 days for contracts to be cancelled. Rogue traders do not give cancellation rights and they also pressurise people to have the work started straight away.

Councillor Paul Bates, cabinet member for communities and health, said: “During winter, some of our residents might find themselves feeling more vulnerable and isolated. Sadly, it’s vulnerability that bogus callers and rogue tradesmen prey upon.

“That’s why the council is urging residents to be wary of unexpected callers and appealing for people to speak out about scams.

“If you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour, friend or relative then please check in on them and make sure they are aware of what to look out for. If you suspect they may have fallen victim to a scam, don’t hesitate to report it.”

If you suspect you or someone you know is being scammed, you can report it to Cheshire East Council’s trading standards team via the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 040506.

The team also urges residents to report cases of rogue traders or uninvited doorstep callers.

For further winter-related advice, please visit: www.facebook.com/cheshireeastcouncil and www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/winter

Residents can help friends and neighbours, who do not have internet access, by downloading and printing off information from the website and giving it to them.

Xmas Operation vs Retail Crime

Subject: Xmas Operation vs Retail Crime

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This is a message sent via Neighbourhood Watch. This information has been sent on behalf of Cheshire Constabulary

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Peter Wakefield (Police, PC, Crewe LPU Centre Beat Mgmt)

As Beat Manager for Crewe Central I'd like to publicise that we have prepared a Christmas operation to combat the historical increase in shoplifting in Crewe town centre. We start officially on Friday 25th November at the Xmas Lights Switch-On, then continue through the month of December. It's called 'Operation Bittersweet'. Expect to see more officers in town, feel free to introduce yourselves!
PC 2995 Wakefield

Community News

Subject: Community News

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This is a message sent via Neighbourhood Watch. This information has been sent on behalf of Cheshire Constabulary

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Angela Egerton (Police, Sergeant, Crewe LPU Sgt)

Four men have been sentenced to a combined total of 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbery at a Nantwich jewellers.
Lewis Chalmers, 27, from Oswald Road in Chorlton Cum Hardy, Patrick David Massey, 26, Pegwell Drive, Salford, Darren James McAndrew, 32, Edlington Walk, Newton Heath and Joseph Anthony Schofield, 20, from Dob Brook Close in Manchester appeared at Warrington Crown Court on 21 November 2016 to be sentenced.
All defendants had pleaded guilty to robbery.
The robbery was reported to police at 11.18am on Wednesday 27 July 2016.
Offenders wearing balaclavas had forced a hole in the window and stole a number of watches before making off in a vehicle.
“Following a 28 minute pursuit by Cheshire police, working with four other forces - North West Motorway Group, Central Police Motorway Group, West Midlands Motorway Group and Staffordshire Police - they tracked down and followed a van on the M6 and subsequently arrested.

Young people urged to take part in Your Say survey – and grab chance to win a MacBook Air!

 

Young people are being urged to have their say on careers advice – and grab the chance to win a MacBook Air.

If are you are aged 14 to 24 and at a Cheshire East school or college, or attended one in the past, here is your chance to have your say on the careers guidance you’ve received.

The council’s arms-length Skills and Growth Company wants to ensure everyone receives the best careers advice, including the right kind of guidance in choosing their career, what skills or qualifications are needed and where to gain them.

A short online survey has been put together to enable feedback to be provided via a mobile phone, tablet or computer. The survey results will not only be beneficial for improving the careers advice and guidance students receive across Cheshire East but also everyone who takes part is in with a chance of winning a MacBook Air laptop.

As a further incentive, the first 200 participants that refer a friend to complete the survey will receive a £5 Amazon voucher.

Councillor George Hayes, chairman of The Skills and Growth Company, said: “The survey has been developed to gather young people’s views on careers education in Cheshire East, to help identify what they see as potential barriers to employment and help shape our priorities for the future.

“Therefore, five or 10 minutes of your time to complete the survey would be greatly appreciated.”

To have your say to be in with a chance of winning the MacBook Air visit: www.yoursaycheshire.co.uk

The questionnaire closes on December 19, 2016.

Community grants to raise aspirations across borough

 

Community organisations across the borough have been given a boost of almost £50,000 by Cheshire East Council after the latest round of community grant funding was announced.

A total of 19 voluntary, community and faith sector organisations were awarded a total of £47,387 in the latest round of community grant funding.

The funding was awarded to successful applicants from a broad range of community groups across Cheshire East, including. Macclesfield Seals Disabled Swimming Club, Barthomley Village Hall and Sandbach Community Football Centre.

Macclesfield Seals were awarded £800 to celebrate their 60th anniversary next year with an event at Macclesfield Town Hall. The event will be used to recruit new volunteers.

Sandbach Community Football Centre is looking to increase its usage during the evenings and at weekends. A £4,000 grant has been given to the centre by Cheshire East, which will be used to make a significant improvement to their grass pitch. This will increase sporting opportunities for all users of the facility and allow members to hold more community events.

Councillor Paul Bates, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities and health, said: “It was very satisfying to see such a broad spectrum of the community represented and successfully apply for funding.

“The best part is yet to come – and that is seeing it all in action. I am passionate about seeing a healthier and more active aspiration in our local communities and this commitment comes through strongly in this latest round of funding.

“I wish all our community groups the very best of luck in realising their ambitions.”

If you are involved in a community group and have a specific reason to seek funding, please get your application in early by registering your project at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/communitygrant

The closing date for the next round of applications is December 30.

Mandy rides off with prize bike

 

Mandy Willett has cycled off with a brand new £900 mountain bike after winning the Cheshire Tour of Britain prize draw.

The top of the range Norco Torrent bike was kindly donated by Evans Cycles of Macclesfield.

In September, Cheshire East successfully hosted Stage Three of The Tour of Britain, the most prestigious cycle race in the UK and the country’s largest free-to-attend sporting event.

Everyone who signed up for the Cheshire Tour of Britain newsletter was entered into the draw and Mandy’s name was selected at random.

An estimated 300,000 people watched the event on the day and the race was broadcast to 129 countries with a potential international television audience of more than100 million people. The event also boosted the local economy by more than £3.5 million. 

Mandy, a keen cyclist from Timperley, near Altrincham, is delighted with her prize.

She said; “I am absolutely delighted. Winning this fabulous prize is a wonderful surprise. Watching the tour as it passed through Cheshire was an unforgettable experience and I’ll think of it every time I go out on my new bike.”

Councillor David Brown, Cheshire East Council deputy leader, said: “I am delighted to present Mandy with her prize and I am sure that, being a keen cyclist, she will certainly make good use of it. Hosting the Tour of Britain was a great day for everyone in Cheshire East and will live long in all our memories.” 

MP,s 171st news bulletin

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome to this, my 171st news bulletin...

HS2

On Tuesday, the Government confirmed the route for the high-speed rail line, HS2, from Crewe to Manchester - an announcement that builds on the decision taken in November 2015 to accelerate construction of the Phase Two route between Fradley and Crewe.
This Y-shaped phase, illustrated below, will open in two stages. Phase 2a, from the West Midlands to Crewe, will launch in 2027 - six years earlier than originally planned - and Phase 2b, from Crewe to Manchester and from the West Midlands to Leeds, South Yorkshire and the East Midlands, will open in 2033. A rolling stock depot, previously earmarked for Golborne, near Wigan, will also now be sited north of Crewe, at Wimboldsley.
Taken together, this is a game changer for South Cheshire. It is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to provide local people with excellent access to conventional and high-speed services, and is a project that will place Crewe at the heart of the Northern Gateway. It will also serve as a draw for businesses looking to benefit from the connectivity, and, in turn, bring new jobs, training opportunities and inward investment to the area.

The concept of a new 'hub station', to be located on the site of Crewe's existing station, remains a possibility, too - a move which, with the right investment, could create up to 120,000 jobs by 2040 and inject £10bn a year into the region’s wider economy.
The delivery of HS2 is, as many of you will know, something I have long campaigned for. So, to be told that it will arrive six years earlier than planned, and that Crewe could still be an integrated hub station, is positive news indeed.

• You can read the Government's full 'HS2 Phase 2B: command paper' online at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hs2-phase-2b-decision-document

Edward Timpson MP
Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich
Please remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions, or if there is anything I can do to assist you.

Recently, I...

• Joined military, civic, and charitable organisations in laying wreaths at Remembrance services in Crewe and Nantwich
• Received a tour of the new Pep & Co store, at Crewe's Market Shopping Centre
• Was quized by Adelaide School pupils, during their visit to the Houses of Parliament
• Visited St Mary's Primary School in Crewe
• Hosted an MP drop-in session for the National Association of Boys and Girls Clubs (NABGC)
• Gave a keynote speech at The Prince's Trust 'National Care Leavers' Week Conference
• Attended and delivered a speech at the National Children and Adult Services Conference
• Presented an award to NHS South Cheshire CCG, in recognition of their work towards improving cancer survival rates in the region
• Met Nantwich's Paralympic medal hero, Andy Small, at the Channel 4 'Superhumans' event in Westminster
• Supported Nantwich Christie Hospital Group volunteers at their Flag Day street collection in Nantwich town centre
• Attended a parade at St. Matthews Church, Haslington, to exchange a British Legion flag with a Red Cross Standard, and unveiled a plaque at the Church in memory of the area's war dead
• Helped the Wrenbury & District Model Railway Club and the Royal Marines Charity with their fundraising efforts at Tesco, in Crewe
• Held my regular advice surgeries in Crewe and in Nantwich

(Photo: Edward Timpson MP, with staff of South Cheshire CCG, South Cheshire 'Action on Cancer' and Crewe 'Every Breath You Take')
NHS South Cheshire CCG recognised for improved cancer survival rates
14 October 2016

Last month, I had the pleasure of presenting a certificate to NHS South Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) for their work in improving cancer survival rates and promoting symptom awareness across the region.

NHS South Cheshire CCG is now rated one of most improved CCGs in England, with recent figures showing an 11 per cent increase in one year survival rates in the region since 1998.
This progress is tied to a number of innovative initiatives, including the Crewe-based ‘Every Breath You Take’ campaign. This small campaign team has used a variety of methods to spread its message - to both health professionals and the general public - and has participated in many community events, trained 115 local champions, and encouraged hundreds of people, aged 50 and over, to self request a chest X-ray at Leighton Hospital.
Early detection of cancer is often vital, so its important that we are all aware of possible signs and symptoms, and see a doctor if in any doubt. 

• You can find out more about South Cheshire CCG's initiatives at http://www.southcheshireccg.nhs.uk/news_items/10759-life-saving-cheshire-campaign-celebrates-a-breath-taking-year-of-success, and follow the team at Crewe's 'Every Breath You Take' on Twitter, @ebytcrewe.

Christmas lights 'Switch On' event in Crewe, Friday 25 November
Visit Cheshire:
Crewe's Christmas lights 'Switch On' event will take place on Friday 25th November, from 5pm, in Market Square.
A busy programme of events is scheduled, including music from the TheFunkyChoir.com and the Paul Snook Band, and FREE activities for children (such as face painting and photos with Father Christmas). The 'switch on', itself, is at 6:30pm, and will be followed by a firework display.

Nantwich Christmas Lights 'Switch On' - 19 November 2016
Nantwich Town Council:
Olympic and Paralympic heroes, Bryony Page and Andy Small, will be guests of honour at this year's Christmas lights switch on event in Nantwich, on Saturday 19th November. Starting at 3:30pm, the event will include performances from local talents, Josh Whittaker and Callum Wright, and the big switch-on will be followed by a musical firework spectacular at 5.30pm

Crewe Rotary Club - Father Christmas Float Dates, December 2016

Crewe Life:
Starting on Monday 5th December, Crewe Rotary Club will be taking Father Christmas and his float around the Crewe, Haslington and Wistaston area. As ever, all money raised will be used to fund local projects. More information can be found on the above link, or @SantaRotaryCrewe on Facebook

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INFORMATION BULLETIN: Festive period waste and recycling collections

 

Cheshire East Council is reminding residents that there may be changes to their bin collections over the festive period.

The changes will only affect those households that have their recycling or waste collections on a Monday or a Tuesday.

If your collection day falls on Monday December 26 (Boxing Day), Tuesday December 27, or Monday January 2, please check the sticker which will be applied to your bin from the beginning of December.

Some collections will be brought forward and others pushed back. You can also refer to the online calendar at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/MyCollectionDay/ for your revised festive period collection day.

Waste and recycling collections will otherwise run as normal from Tuesday January 3.

Residents are also reminded that they could take any surplus recycling or waste to their nearest household waste recycling centres, which are open every day except Christmas Day.

More information is available at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/recycling

Council urges residents to be good winter neighbours

 

Cheshire East Council and its partners are offering a range of advice and support to residents on how to keep warm, well and safe this winter.

This week, we encourage people to be good ‘winter neighbours’.

As the weather turns colder, Cheshire East Council is urging residents to be good ‘winter neighbours’ by checking in on their friends and neighbours – especially if they are older or have health problems.

They may need your help and support to prepare for the lower temperatures and a phonecall or knock at the door can also prevent them from feeling isolated.

It is also worth considering and checking if someone’s home is warm enough. Living rooms should be heated to 21C and bedrooms to 18C.

It is also a good idea to find out if your neighbour has enough food and medication to prevent them from having to go out in very cold or icy weather.

Councillor Paul Bates, cabinet member for communities and health, said: “We recognise that while winter and the festive season can be an exciting time for our residents, it can also be a very lonely and worrying time for some.

“That’s why the council will be issuing advice and information throughout winter to help our residents to prepare for the colder weather. We are also encouraging residents to be good ‘winter neighbours’ and take the time to check on people who might need their help.

“It can make all the difference to them and helps to ease pressure on urgent and emergency health services at a critical time of the year.

“Residents can also help by finding out what support services are available in their area and taking the information to family, friends and neighbours, who need extra help.”

Here are a few tips on how to be a good winter neighbour:

● Check on elderly neighbours or relatives to make sure they are safe and well and prevent them from becoming lonely;

● Make sure they have enough food and medicines to prevent them having to go out in very cold or icy weather;

● Give your telephone number to elderly neighbours so they can contact you for help;

● Check their home is warm enough;

● Keep drives and footpaths clear of snow and ice for your neighbours. Advice is available from Cheshire East Highways about clearing snow and ice.

The council is also encouraging residents to always be on the lookout for signs that something might be wrong with a neighbour, friend or vulnerable member of the community. Warning signs include:

● Milk still out on the doorstep late in the day;

● Newspapers and post stuck in the letterbox;

● Curtains drawn during the day;

● Lights on during the day;

● A home in darkness when there should be someone at home;

● A dog barking all day or the cat scratching to be let in;

● Bins not put out on collection days.

There are a range of services available through the community and voluntary sector in Cheshire East that can help people stay safe and well during the colder months. Call 01270 763100 for further information or visit: www.cvsce.org.uk/contact

The British Red Cross has a useful app that can be downloaded which features practical advice and gives warnings of severe weather. It is available online at: www.redcross.org.uk/emergencyapp

There are also ‘action cards’ from Public Health England about planning for cold weather. They are available using this link: goo.gl/IacLPp

For safeguarding concerns about the welfare or safety of a particular adult, call 0300 1235010 (weekdays from 8:30am-5pm) or 0300 1235022 outside these hours.

The family information service can be contacted on 0300 1235033 and for concerns about the welfare or safety of a child, call 0300 1235012 (weekdays from 8.30am-5pm) or 0300 1235022 outside these hours.

For domestic abuse assistance, call the 24-hour Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Hub helpline on 0300 1235101.

For further winter-related advice, visit: www.facebook.com/cheshireeastcouncil and www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/winter

Volunteer custody visitors needed

Subject: Volunteer custody visitors needed

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Peter Caldwell (Police, New Media Manager, Chesh Engagement Unit)

David Keane, the Police & Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, is currently looking for volunteers to fulfil the role of custody visitor.

Custody visitors are members of the public who visit one of the three police custody suites in Cheshire to check on the conditions and welfare of the people being detained within police custody.  They are impartial and independent of the police service.

If you are interested in knowing more about custody visiting, details are available on the Commissioner’s website where there is also a role profile of one of the current custody visitors available to read.

To apply to become a custody visitor, download an application pack from the website or email your name and address to police.crime.commissioner@cheshire.pnn.police.uk or telephone 01606 364103 for an application pack. 

If you have any questions regarding the role, contact the Governance Officer on 01606 364005.

The closing date for applications is Monday 9th January 2017.

Orbitas gets switched on for winter

 

Cheshire East Council-owned company Orbitas has launched a scheme to help vulnerable residents keep on top of crucial jobs this winter.

The handyperson and electrical service will offer minor maintenance work for Cheshire East’s elderly and vulnerable residents.

A team of qualified electrical engineers are also available to carry out specialist portable appliance testing (PAT) for local businesses, schools and community centres (PAT testing is not a legal requirement for private individuals).

Crewe-based Orbitas is keen to speak to organisations who would like to have an assessment to ensure that all their electrical equipment is safe and properly maintained to prevent any potential danger in the future.

Their qualified electricians offer competitive rates and a high-quality service, providing organisations with both peace of mind and value for money.

Jan Griffiths, Orbitas building and specialist project manager said: “While PAT testing isn’t a legal requirement, the law does require employers to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe and properly maintained. Basically, if you have an appliance that has a plug, it qualifies as needing to be PAT tested.

“We would urge any Cheshire East school, community centre or business to contact us and arrange a visit to assess any requirements they may have.”

The company also provides a popular, professional and competitively-priced handyperson service to carry out small repairs and general work in the homes of elderly and disabled people who need a helping hand. This includes items ranging from fitting grabrails and changing light bulbs to fixing leaky taps and fixing gates.

Orbitas chairman Councillor David Marren said: “Orbitas provides a professional and reliable service to the local community – whether it is a business, school or community centre that wants to test its appliances or an odd job that enables elderly and vulnerable people to maintain their independence.

“It can be quite difficult to find good, trustworthy workmen for those little jobs that come up so I am delighted that Orbitas is able to offer that service.”

For further information and to make an appointment with Orbitas handyperson or electrical services, ring 0300 123 5017, and choose option three or visit: www.orbitas.co.uk/handyperson

Orbitas is a wholly-owned company of Cheshire East Council.

Rail apprentice on fast track

 

A Crewe apprentice is on a career fast-track as the railway industry gears up for an exciting phase of investment and growth.  

Kirsty Walley grabbed her opportunity to link up with Crewe-based TBM Rail when she left school, and has recently moved on to Unipart Rail who operate a depot on Gresty Road.

Formed in 2009, TBM Rail provides passenger comfort services to train operating companies. A key part of the business expansion has involved investing in people through structured apprenticeship programmes.

Seeing one of the firm’s original apprentices fly the nest was a sad moment for the staff, but TBM Rail director Neil Smith is delighted to see her progress.

He said: “We knew that expanding the business required fresh ideas and new skills, and that’s exactly what Kirsty brought to the table.

“From day one she listened, learned and took initiative. It was a pleasure watching her develop into the role and become a valued member of the company.”  

After five years, and with her working portfolio boasting many accomplishments, Kirsty decided that the time was right to explore fresh challenges.

She said: “I found the opportunity on the government apprenticeship website, and as well as starting a really hands-on job I studied Business Administration at the college.

“During my teenage years and even after leaving school I was always keen to work within the rail environment, so finding the job with TBM Rail was ideal for me.

“The role was always varied, with a diverse range of client accounts managed from the unit in Crewe.”

South Cheshire College work in partnership with many firms to ensure that students are equipped with the right practical and business skills.

Maria Davison, Work Based Learning and Employment Engagement Director, said: “At South Cheshire College our curriculum and work-based programmes are all geared towards preparing students for the world of work. 

“We are delighted for Kirsty who has progressed her career since leaving the college and wish her all the best in the future.”

Unipart Rail are excited to engage young professionals who have gained vital industry experience. They also run an extensive apprenticeship programme.

Dawn Allett, Senior HR Advisor at Unipart Rail, said: “TBM Rail is just one of many railway businesses in Crewe that sees Apprentice programmes as crucial to the future of the Industry.

“At Unipart Rail on Gresty Road, apprentices form a core part of the strategy for ensuring a successful future, and the scheme won the Inspiring Apprenticeship Cheshire & Warrington, Cheshire Business Award in 2013.

“Whilst apprentices are usually thought to be in technical roles, at Unipart Rail they also have apprentices in office-based roles.

“With regular ‘Recognition’ events, the Apprentices share their learning with colleagues from across the business, embedding their skills within the wider business operations and demonstrating to their colleagues the successes they have achieved.”

Taking care of the Spiders

 

Local care provider Side by Side Care have proved that staff are not scared of spiders by stepping in with vital funding to kit out a Crewe youth football team.

The Cheshire Blades Spiders, who play in the U14 South Cheshire Youth League, received an early-season boost with the much-needed sponsorship package.

The Spiders play home fixtures on the pitches behind the Peacock pub, a short distance from Side by Side Care offices at the Wistaston House Business Centre.

The care firm offers night and day respite, domestic help, live-in cover and domiciliary care.

The sponsorship came about when Care by Care manager Jessica Spender took a break from the offices.

She said: “I noticed the team training one evening and know several friends who have found it hard keeping youth teams going because of the costs involved.

“Side by Side Care offers services to local people in the Nantwich, Wistaston and Crewe communities, so it’s right that we help out with something that encourages young people to be fit and healthy.”

A team spokesman said: “We have had a tough start in the league this year, so the last thing you need is to have to worry about covering the team expenses.

“The pitches are costly to maintain; the referees must be paid and as the lads are always growing you need to replace the kit each season.

“So it’s great to be involved with a local business that has taken a genuine interest in the Spiders.”

Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service November 2016 E-Newsletter

Subject: Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service November 2016 E-Newsletter - FiRELiNK

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This is a message sent via Neighbourhood Watch. This information has been sent on behalf of Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service

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Message sent by

Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Fire , Administrator, Cheshire Fire)

Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service November 2016 E-Newsletter - FiRELiNK

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

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Have your say on our draft plans for 2017/18

The consultation on the draft Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP) for 2017/18 is now underway and will last until Tuesday 3rd January 2017. During this time the Service will consult with the public, key partners and stakeholders and members of staff.

The draft 2017/18 Plan outlines a second review of our emergency response functions to reflect risk and demand up to 2020. This follows on from the first programme of change that the Service began in 2013 and has seen the building of four new fire stations at Alsager, Penketh and Powey Lane near Chester, as well the fire station and safety centre at Lymm. There have also been several changes to the way in which the Service staffs its stations.

To read the draft plans and to have your say please visit our website

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Emergency Services Christmas Carol Concert 2016

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Cheshire Constabulary and North West Ambulance Service are coming together once again for their annual Joint Emergency Services Christmas Carol Concert.

This a free event with all welcome.

Bring your friends and family along to Chester Cathedral on Tuesday 6th December 2016, starts at 7:30pm.
For more information - Emergency Services Christmas Carol Concert 2016

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Are you ready for winter?

Most incidents in the home can be prevented by using common sense and taking precautions.  Winter, particularly, can be a dangerous time with the higher than usual use of candles, electrical appliances and more hazardous roads.

The Service supports national initiatives that help our communities to understand just what precautions they can take to keep them and their loved ones safe.  Here are ones we have been supporting since the last newsletter.

Candle fire safety

With the days growing darker and winter setting in, a few candles scattered round the room can lend a warm glow to an evening. But with candle fires resulting in around 350 casualties each year, we would like you to take extra care with candles this winter - nearly 40% of all fires started by candles result in a death or injury.

Find out more - Candle fire safety

Carbon monoxide awareness

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can be fatal or cause permanent damage to your health.  CO is produced when carbon fuels don't burn completely. It has no smell or taste and, in large quantities, it can kill very quickly. 

Find out more - Carbon monoxide awareness

Electrical fire safety

Electrical appliances have become a staple of modern life - from fridges and phones to toasters or the TV, it's hard to think of how we would get by without a few electrically-powered essentials.

Find out more - Electrical fire safety

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

Is your car ready for winter?

Cheshire firefighters will be out and about around the county, offering drivers the chance to have their cars checked before the colder weather sets in. Along with partner agencies, firefighters will be carrying out free safety checks on cars as part of their continuing campaign for safer roads in Cheshire.

Find out more - Is your car ready for winter?

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Brake Road Safety Week

Five people are killed every single day by something we already know how to cure. Our roads are dangerous places, where hundreds of deaths and serious injuries take place every week.

But by changing our driving behaviour, we can help to make our villages, towns and cities safer places to be. Every action that we take, as a driver or as a passenger, can change the outcome of a journey and the future of a family.

That's why Brake has chosen to focus on the six elements of the Brake Pledge for Road Safety Week 2016 (21-27 November): Slow, Sober, Secure, Silent, Sharp and Sustainable.

Find out more - Brake Road Safety Week

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Biker Down courses

If you were the first on the scene of a collision involving a biker, would you know what to do? Would you know who is most at risk, how to protect the area or whether you should remove the helmet of a downed rider?

Actions taken in the first few moments after an accident can be crucial in minimising injuries and can make a real difference to the lives of those involved, but there can be some uncertainty about what to do in these situations.

We are holding a number of free Biker Down training courses this year. For dates and details please visit our website.

For more information - Biker Down

Winter Wellbeing – make sure you are accessing key benefits

 

Cheshire East Council and its partners are offering a range of advice and support to residents on how to keep warm, well and safe this winter.

This week, we remind residents to access the appropriate benefits.

Thousands of Cheshire East residents could be missing out on the extra financial support that they are entitled to – with benefits available to help you during the colder months.

Support includes funding for first time central heating to be installed. If you don't have central heating in your home, and are using portable heaters, storage heaters or open fires, you may qualify.

The funding is available on a first-come-first-served basis until February 28, 2017, and the scheme is aimed at households with a low income.

To see if you qualify, use the online checker by searching for ‘Energy Efficiency at Home’ on the Council’s website, or by emailing: privatehousing@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Until March 31, 2017, funding is also available for replacement boilers and central heating through Warm Zone.

If your postcode begins with CW1, CW2, CW5, CW12, SK9, SK10, SK11, ST7 or WA16, you may be entitled to help. The funding is based on your full postcode, your health and the household income and will be assessed by Warm Zone. Please contact the Save Energy Advice Line on 0800 043 0151 to find out more.

If you don’t live in a qualifying postcode area but you are on a means tested benefit or have a health condition made worse by the cold, our care and repair service can help by checking your eligibility for any other grants that are available. Call 0300 123 5017 (select option four) for more details.

A winter fuel payment of between £100 and £300 tax-free is available to help you pay your heating bills if you were born on or before May 5, 1953.

Most payments are made automatically between November and December if you get the state pension or another social security benefit. If you qualify, but don’t get paid automatically, you’ll need to make a claim by calling 03459 151515.

A Cold Weather Payment may also be available to you if you receive certain benefits.

Payments are made automatically when your local temperature is either recorded as, or forecast to be, an average of 0C or below over seven consecutive days.

Councillor Paul Bates, cabinet member for communities and health, said: “There is support available to help you cover the costs of winter, so make sure you are accessing the relevant benefits and payments. If you think you may be eligible for schemes, such as funding for first time central heating, don’t delay making an enquiry.”

Here are just some of the organisations which can help you to access the appropriate benefits this winter:

• If you are over 50 and living in the Crewe, Nantwich, Audlem, Sandbach, Alsager and Middlewich areas, contact Age UK Cheshire on 01606 881660.

• If you are over 50 and living in Macclesfield, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Wilmslow, Knutsford and Poynton areas, contact Age UK Cheshire East on 01606 612958.

• The Citizens Advice Bureau has services across Cheshire East. For more information, visit the Cheshire East Citizens Advice Service website or call 08444 111444.

Energy Projects Plus also provides a telephone advice service on 0800 0430151 (or 0151 6373670 from a mobile) for Cheshire East residents, offering a wide range of advice on energy efficiency, information on insulation grants and offers, switching energy suppliers, managing fuel debt, renewable energy and much more. More details can also be found at: www.epplus.org.uk

For further winter-related advice, please visit: www.facebook.com/cheshireeastcouncil

and www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/winter

Residents can help friends and neighbours, who do not have internet access, by downloading and printing off information from the website and giving it to them.

Crewe East

Subject: Crewe East

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Angela Egerton (Police, Sergeant, Crewe LPU Sgt)

This letter is to inform you that unfortunately a  number of burglaries have recently occurred in and around the area of Hungerford Road, Crewe on 10th November 2016.
I would like to take this opportunity to point out that the Crewe Local Policing Unit, which covers both the town centre and the large rural area surrounding it, experience a very low number of domestic house burglaries.
In an effort to ensure it is an isolated incident we would ask you to review your home security and take sensible precautions like checking all premises and outbuildings are secure, house alarms set and vehicle keys stored away etc.
If you have seen any suspicious persons, vehicles or have any other information, please contact us on 101 referring to this letter.  Or call in to Crewe Police Station between 8am-8pm Monday to Saturday and 8am-6pm on Sunday.
Your call will be dealt with in complete confidence and the information you supply may help us to further reduce burglary and other offences in your area.
Your local beat officers are PC Warren Davidson, PCSO Charlie Burford  and PCSO Jess Street
Angela Egerton Sergeant
Crewe Local  Policing Unit
Follow your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on Twitter

Highways information bullet-in

 

November 17, 2016

All high level gritting routes to the east of the borough will be salted from 3pm today, with a second treatment planned for midnight.

These routes include the Cat and Fiddle road, Wildboarclough, Kettleshulme, Macclesfield forest, Rainow, Bollington and strategic routes leading to Whaley Bridge.

The treatment of the borough’s low level routes is planned for 6pm and again at 2am, depending on the forecast.

From 6pm onwards, some showers are expected to turn to sleet or snow on the higher roads in the east.

The road surface temperature will fall below freezing during the night, giving both icy patches and hoar frost patches, with a risk of salt being washed off in any showers.

By midday tomorrow, 1-3 centimetres of snow is expected to have accumulated on ground above 200 metres in the eastern and high east areas of the borough.

All winter maintenance activities will be tweeted from @cechighways.  Local residents can also contact the highways team on 0300 123 5020.

Crewe going down hill fast

I agree with my Labour political opponent that Crewe is going places.

Crewe is going down hill fast.

And the Labour run Town Council is doing nothing to arrest the spiral of decline.

Major stores like BHS and Marks and Spencer have gone, or are going,from the town centre.Crewe town centre is now dominated by phone shops,coffee shops,charity shops and pound shops.As a former Crewe Markert Trader myself,it saddens me that Crewe Market is now a sad reflection of the thriving market it used to be.

Most of the big shops in the town centre have decamped to the Grand Junction Retail Park in Earle Street where there are no car parking charges.

And don't start me on car parking charges. Sandbach, Middlewich and Alsager have not paid a penny piece in car parking charges since Cheshire East was formed in 2009. In that time Crewe residents have been forced to fork out several millions in car parking charges.. How can that be right or fair? But the Town Council shrug their shoulders and do nothing about it. 

It is about time we had a Town Council that stood up for the people of Crewe instead of acting like a docile poodle to Cheshire East.

The Town Council should be working with the owners of the empty shops in the town centre to get them let,even if it is just for a temporary basis for the Xmas period,to get some life back into the town centre.

The Town Council should be pressing Cheshire East to deliver on their broken promise of offering periods of free parking to get shoppers back into the town.

The electors in Crewe West have an opportunity on December 1st to vote UKIP to  ensure the Town Council is shaken out of its lethargy and we finally have a Town Council that is going to act in the interests of all the residents of Crewe.

Yours faithfully,

Cllr Brian Silvester

UKIP Candidate Crewe West.

CALLING LOCAL VEGETARIANS!

 

A new group has started up in South Cheshire for local vegetarians. South Cheshire Vegetarian & Vegans is holding a get together at 7pm on Friday 25^th November at Giovanni’s in Crewe and interested veggies are invited to come along.

With more and more people cutting back on the amount of meat they eat, the new group is a great chance to come along and meet like-minded people. It is also hoped to work towards increasing the range of veggie fayre on the menu at restaurants in the local area. For more details, contact SouthChesVeggies@hotmail.com or follow us on Twitter @SthChesVeggies

Cheshire East commemorates Armistice Day with two minutes’ silence

 

Cheshire East Council has held a poignant ceremony to mark Armistice Day.

The Mayor of Cheshire East, Councillor Olivia Hunter, led two minutes’ silence outside the authority’s Westfields HQ, in Sandbach.

Staff, councillors and members of the public gathered to observe a period of quiet reflection and remember those who gave their lives in war. It followed a playing of the Last Post.

Short ceremonies were also held in Memorial Square, outside the council’s offices at Crewe Municipal Buildings, and outside Macclesfield Town Hall at 11am today.

Similar ceremonies were held at numerous sites across the borough to mark the 98th anniversary of the end of the First World War, on November 11, 1918.

At Westfields, Cllr Hunter paid tribute to the fallen in all wars. Before the two-minutes’ silence began, she read the famous lines of the Robert Laurence Binyon poem ‘For the Fallen’, which dates from the Great War:

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”

Cllr Hunter thanked those who attended and added: “On Sunday, it will be my privilege to lay a number of wreaths on behalf of the council. I am sure that many of you will be attending events close to where you live, or watching the national service of remembrance from the Cenotaph on television.

“I was honoured, back in July to lead the borough’s remembrance on the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. Without doubt that will be one of the highlights of my year in office.

“It is right and proper that today, the 98th anniversary of the end of the First World War, we remember those who gave their lives in that conflict and the many since.”

Cllr Rachel Bailey, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “It is tremendously important that today’s generation continues to remember and honour the sacrifice made during the First World War – and in all the conflicts since then. We will remember them.”

The Battle of the Somme, which began 100 years ago on July 1, 1916, is still the single bloodiest day in British military history. The British Army suffered a staggering 57,540 casualties that day, of which more than 19,000 were killed.

The battle lasted until November 18, 1916 and was one of the costliest of the First World War with a total of more than a million soldiers killed or wounded.

Cheshire East will be marking a number of key anniversaries in the period up to November 11, 2018, when the centenary of the signing of the Armistice will be commemorated.

The council’s collaborative Cheshire East Reflects programme has a dedicated website listing the vast array of events and activities being led by community groups, museums, arts organisations and heritage venues. You can read and upload your own stories in the My Reflections and Gallery pages.

For more information visit the Cheshire East Reflects website at: http://cheshireeastreflects.com/

Work begins to upgrade Nantwich swimming baths

 

A major upgrade of Nantwich Pool has begun with a programme of repairs and improvements to give swimmers an up-to-date leisure experience.

Cheshire East Council is spending in the order of £200,000 on the refurbishment, which will include a replacement of decayed wooden ceilings, replacement of lighting with economical LED lighting systems, full redecoration, the refurbishment of changing room lockers and servicing of the main pool pumps.

The building will also become more eco-efficient with new heat recovery ducting installed in the ceiling to retain heat and reduce running costs.

The pool received 100,000 visits this summer and this is the second major investment in the facilities in ten years, underlining Cheshire East Council’s commitment to provide the best leisure amenities for its residents.

Cheshire East deputy leader David Brown, said: “This is a significant investment by the council and demonstrates our pledge to provide the best possible amenities for our residents, so that they can lead active and healthy lives.

“And with the recent opening of the £15m Crewe Lifestyle Centre, we are able to offer swimmers in Nantwich a top class alternative venue while these works are carried out.”

The Nantwich Fitness Suite and Fitness Studio will remain open during the refurbishment, which is expected to be completed by December 19.

Everybody Sport and Recreation, the Trust which manages Cheshire East Council’s leisure facilities, has arranged for all Nantwich Pool customers to use their Everybody membership at other Everybody facilities during the closure.

Council backs contracts ‘block’ on tax evading companies

 

Cheshire East Council is to change its procurement rules in order to prevent tax evading and unscrupulous tax avoiding companies from securing contracts with the authority.

It follows a motion put to cabinet by ward members, who called on the council to adopt beefed-up central government rules on awarding contracts worth £5m or above.

A meeting of cabinet unanimously backed the motion, brought by Crewe ward member Councillor Steven Hogben and Sandbach ward member Councillor Sam Corcoran.

The decision means that, from January 1, 2017, all companies bidding for contracts of £5m or more will be required to self certify that they are ‘fully tax compliant’ in line with the UK government’s latest procurement rules.

Councillor Paul Findlow, cabinet member for corporate policy and legal services, said: “My cabinet colleagues and I wholeheartedly support this decision.

“This Council believes it is right that bidders for council contracts should be asked to

account fully for their past tax records, using the higher standards adopted by central government.

“Tax evasion and sharp-practice avoidance is simply wrong. This is about ensuring good practice and this council will not do business with those who seek to shirk their responsibilities at the expense of the taxpayer and the vast majority of responsible, tax-compliant companies.”

HMRC estimates that tax evasion costs the UK economy £4.4billion last year with a further £2.7bn lost due to ‘dubious’ tax avoidance

Cllr Corcoran added: “Aggressive tax avoidance is becoming socially unacceptable. I am pleased that no businesses that engage in such practices will be awarded large contracts by Cheshire East Council.

“Businesses and individuals should be proud to pay their fair share of the taxes that protect our nation, support the most vulnerable in society and provide for the services that we all use.”

Government’s announcement continues to support High Speed Rail for Cheshire East.

 

Today’s announcement from government continues to support high-speed rail coming to Cheshire East and highlights continued progress since the decision was made last year. 

The key points in today’s announcement includes:

• Government have asked that further consideration of the hub station at Crewe be undertaken.  If the government proceeds with this proposal they have decided that it would be located in Crewe;
• They have also asked that further work is undertaken to look at bringing high- speed rail services to Macclesfield;
• Changes to the depot strategy for rolling stock and infrastructure maintenance.

Today’s announcement also outlines the confirmed route for HS2 from Crewe to Manchester Airport.

The council will now work with HS2 to put effective engagement processes in place to ensure that residents’ and businesses’ concerns are heard by government.

Council Leader Rachel Bailey said: “This is the news that we have been working towards over the last five years or more and delivers the message that Cheshire East is truly open for business

“This will support our local communities through the creation of new skills and a further step towards full employment in the borough.

“It presents new learning, educational and training opportunities unequalled since the heydays of railway engineering in and around Crewe. 

“But we stress that our support for HS2 is subject to the highest standards of mitigation and compensation for those affected, whilst also securing the maximum connectivity through the proposed hub station.

“The announcement today by the Secretary of State for Transport is welcomed and this council has been supporting the call for high-speed rail since it was first mooted.

“The huge economic benefits to be had from HS2 must be harnessed for our future generations so that the children and young people of today – and their children and grandchildren – can seize the enormous opportunities that HS2 will deliver.

“I have secured the continued support of the secretary of state for our strategy for a Northern Gateway Development Zone to ensure that the expected growth associated with HS2, will help to take families out of poverty, provide wide-ranging social benefits for residents and produce a new generation of skilled young people.

“By building a solid and substantial growth strategy, the Northern Gateway Partnership, with the support of government, is working hard to ensure that mid-Cheshire and partner areas are ready for HS2 by ensuring that the benefits of growth are delivered across the political and regional boundaries.

“I now want to work with partners and government in developing the case for a full hub station at Crewe.”

More detail of phase two of the high-speed rail project was unveiled today, by the secretary of state, in a command paper published by the Department for Transport.

It confirms the intended route of the section known as 2b through the north of the borough and on to Manchester Airport and Manchester. 

It also outlines that further work will be undertaken on the hub station and that if they do decide to proceed with it, that it will be located in Crewe.

There will also be a rolling stock depot north of Crewe, creating 400 jobs for the local economy.

HS2 is the biggest infrastructure project since the construction of motorways in the 1960s and 70s and is aimed at increasing capacity on rail and reducing car and truck movements between the north, the Midlands and the south east.

Edward Timpson, MP for Crewe and Nantwich said: “HS2 will open up South Cheshire to international business by providing the extra rail capacity and speed from London that we so badly need. This will only mean more jobs for local people, including at the new rolling stock depot announced today.

“We have the rail skills and service industries here to make HS2 a continued success, both during construction and beyond, and the space and desire to accommodate new industries that want to benefit from this all-important connectivity.

“I have been working very hard in Westminster to make the case for an HS2 hub station at Crewe and to speed up the project. So, to be told that the concept of an integrated hub at Crewe is still being supported, six years earlier than planned, is positive news indeed.”

The spin-off economic benefits from HS2 are predicted to touch every corner of the north Staffordshire and mid-Cheshire sub region including the mid-Cheshire towns of Middlewich, Northwich and Winsford.

Christine Gaskell, chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership and board member of the Northern Gateway Development Zone, said: “The huge economic benefits of HS2 cannot be overstated.

“Evidence from high-speed rail across the world shows that HS2 will bring a huge boost to the Northern Gateway economy.  It will deliver new jobs, business opportunities and thousands of homes to the sub-region.

“But benefits of this scale are dependent on having the right hub station solution at Crewe, which sits at the very heart of the national rail network, and delivery of a truly regional rail hub would enable HS2 to play a full role in revitalising the northern economy.

“It will cut journey times to and from London by more than an hour for 1.5 million people across Cheshire, Staffordshire and into North Wales.

Journeys from Crewe to London will take just 55 minutes, 45 minutes quicker than at present and the scheme will also free up capacity on the West Coast Mainline, facilitating more freight movements and taking 800 truck journeys off the road each day.

It will carry an estimated 300,000 passengers per day and is expected to deliver benefits to other destinations in the north of England and North Wales.

Councillor Bailey added: “Cheshire East has long campaigned for this opportunity and now we know for certain that we have succeeded in securing a hub station at Crewe.

“Crewe is a town that desperately needs infrastructure investment on this scale and I am confident that HS2 will transform the economic landscape for Crewe and the wider region.

“However, any celebration is tempered with the knowledge that for some of our residents there will be disruption and the loss of homes and property.

“We are very mindful of this and this council will do everything in its power to ensure that all our residents affected by the construction of HS2 receive the highest standard of compensation.”

HS2 Ltd will be holding regular stakeholder and community engagement events from December onwards and into the new year. Details will be made available on the HS2 website at www.hs2.org.uk and on the Cheshire East Council website at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Cheshire East commemorates Armistice Day with two minutes’ silence

 

Cheshire East Council has held a poignant ceremony to mark Armistice Day.

The Mayor of Cheshire East, Councillor Olivia Hunter, led two minutes’ silence outside the authority’s Westfields HQ, in Sandbach.

Staff, councillors and members of the public gathered to observe a period of quiet reflection and remember those who gave their lives in war. It followed a playing of the Last Post.

Short ceremonies were also held in Memorial Square, outside the council’s offices at Crewe Municipal Buildings, and outside Macclesfield Town Hall at 11am today.

Similar ceremonies were held at numerous sites across the borough to mark the 98th anniversary of the end of the First World War, on November 11, 1918.

At Westfields, Cllr Hunter paid tribute to the fallen in all wars. Before the two-minutes’ silence began, she read the famous lines of the Robert Laurence Binyon poem ‘For the Fallen’, which dates from the Great War:

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”

Cllr Hunter thanked those who attended and added: “On Sunday, it will be my privilege to lay a number of wreaths on behalf of the council. I am sure that many of you will be attending events close to where you live, or watching the national service of remembrance from the Cenotaph on television.

“I was honoured, back in July to lead the borough’s remembrance on the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. Without doubt that will be one of the highlights of my year in office.

“It is right and proper that today, the 98th anniversary of the end of the First World War, we remember those who gave their lives in that conflict and the many since.”

Cllr Rachel Bailey, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “It is tremendously important that today’s generation continues to remember and honour the sacrifice made during the First World War – and in all the conflicts since then. We will remember them.”

The Battle of the Somme, which began 100 years ago on July 1, 1916, is still the single bloodiest day in British military history. The British Army suffered a staggering 57,540 casualties that day, of which more than 19,000 were killed.

The battle lasted until November 18, 1916 and was one of the costliest of the First World War with a total of more than a million soldiers killed or wounded.

Cheshire East will be marking a number of key anniversaries in the period up to November 11, 2018, when the centenary of the signing of the Armistice will be commemorated.

The council’s collaborative Cheshire East Reflects programme has a dedicated website listing the vast array of events and activities being led by community groups, museums, arts organisations and heritage venues. You can read and upload your own stories in the My Reflections and Gallery pages.

For more information visit the Cheshire East Reflects website at: http://cheshireeastreflects.com/

Police audit and ethics members needed

Subject: Police audit and ethics members needed

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This is a message sent via Neighbourhood Watch. This information has been sent on behalf of Cheshire Constabulary

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Message sent by

Liz Biddle (Police, Community Engagement Officer, Chesh Engagement Unit)

Police audit and ethics members needed
Do you want to join an Audit Advisory Committee or an Ethics Advisory Panel advising the Commissioner and Chief Constable directly? The Audit Advisory Committee provides assurance on risk management, governance, audit and financial controls and the annual accounts.  The Ethics Advisory Panel considers ethical challenges facing Cheshire Police and provides advice on good practice, integrity and standards of public service. 
David Keane, Police & Crime Commissioner for Cheshire and the Chief Constable, Simon Byrne wish to appoint 4 additional audit members, who must have a good understanding of risk and financial controls.
Three additional ethics members are sought to challenge policing integrity and ethical matters.
We are particularly interested in applications from diverse members of the community. Further details and separate audit and ethics information packs and application forms can be found at www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk  If you wish to discuss the positions informally contact Liz Lunn, Chief Finance Officer, on 01606 364109. 
Closing date for applications to both bodies is 12 noon on 28 November 2016. Your completed application form should be sent to David Keane, Police and Crime Commissioner, Constabulary Headquarters, Oakmere Road, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 2UA. Please state your preference if you are applying for both the Audit Advisory Committee and the Ethics Advisory Panel.
Shortlisting will take place on 12 December 2016 and interviews are planned for 5 January 2017.

Knock, knock, knock…

Subject: Knock, knock, knock…

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Dan Hind (Police, Media, Chesh Engagement Unit)

“I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but…”
These are the devastating words that Cheshire Police Officers have had to say to 34 families so far this year when informing them that their loved ones has been killed in a road traffic collision.
Although these tragic incidents have been caused by a number of different factors, national estimates suggest that handheld mobile phones are a contributory factor in at least one in four collisions.
We want to make sure that yours is not the next door we’re knocking at, so starting on Monday 14 November the force will be taking part in a national week long operation targeting motorists who drive while using a handheld mobile phone.
Inspector Steve Griffiths, from the Cheshire Roads Policing Team, said: “As a Senior Investigator I’ve dealt with many serious and fatal collisions, and in recent years I’ve found that increasingly more of these incidents have involved mobile phones.
“Dealing with such cases is heart wrenching, and the hardest part is explaining to someone that a loved one has died because someone felt a phone call or text message was more important than a life.”
So far in 2016, Cheshire police officers have issued more than 2100 tickets to motorists who have been stopped for driving while using a mobile.
Anyone who is caught driving while using mobile phone faces the prospect of a £100 fine and three penalty points on their licence, as well as an increase in their car insurance premium. This could result in the driver losing their license and even their job.
As well as enforcement, the campaign will also focus on educating drivers about the dangers of driving whist using a hand held device. Throughout the week long operation the force will be issuing l messages through the @CheshirePolice and @CheshPolTaskforce social media accounts.
Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire David Keane said: “Road safety is one of my priorities and it is pleasing to see the work that the Roads policing team is undertaking to help make Cheshire roads safer.
“I have great admiration for the work undertaken by our family liaison officers, who have the heartbreaking role of informing families that their loved ones have died.
“However, much of their work could be entirely avoidable if motorists paid more attention to the road, rather than their mobile phones.”
Inspector Griffiths added: “This operation is not just about issuing tickets, it’s also about educating motorists about the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving to help prevent tragedies occurring.
“My advice is simply, if you’re driving a car, concentrate on the road and not your mobile phone. It could be the difference between life and death.”

Middlewich eastern bypass routes to be explored

 

Cheshire East Council has been given the green light to source the best possible route for the construction of the Middlewich eastern bypass.

A number of different routes are to be explored as possible options for the bypass, after Cheshire East secured Department of Transport funding of more than £1.25m to guarantee the road’s delivery.

The scheme is one of only seven nationally to receive money in the latest round of government funding for transport projects. Together with Cheshire East approved funding, this gives a total budget of approximately £2m for the next stage of works.

The bypass will bring significant economic growth to Middlewich, including nearly 2,000 houses and 6,500 jobs.

Councillor David Brown, Cheshire East cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, said: “Receiving this significant investment from central government funds is a hugely positive milestone for the Middlewich eastern bypass project.

“The council is now able to ensure that we fully focus on selecting the most strategic route, ensuring that the taxpayer gets the best value for money.”

Cheshire East launches local welfare safety net

 

Cheshire East Council is taking immediate action to address a central government need to find welfare savings of £12billion.

The ‘Cheshire East local welfare safety net’ will support residents who may face financial hardship as a result of welfare reform.

The strategy, endorsed at cabinet today, follows a period where a broad range of frontline services worked together to understand the systems and schemes already in place and assessed where there were opportunities for improvement.

Councillor Peter Groves, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for finance and assets, said: “The council is committed to building strong and supportive communities and encourages residents to be self-reliant and not dependent on welfare and public services.

“The council understands that this central reform may initially lead to difficult times for some of our residents, which is why we have endorsed a strategy that will positively impact on those who need our help most.”

The strategy will focus on helping people to get into and stay in employment, enable access to affordable housing and develop self-reliance and financial responsibility.

The council’s emergency assistance scheme will continue to provide a safety net to prevent crisis.

£90,000 boost for exciting digital-focused events

 

Cheshire East Council has secured a £90,000 grant to run a digital-focused programme of interactive events, exhibitions and workshops.

The grant from Arts Council England will help deliver an exciting 12-month programme called Shift, starting in January.

Shift will explore interactive hands-on activities, workshops and demonstrations, including coding, hacking, robotics and prototyping and showcase technology, inventions, virtual and augmented reality and gadgets.

It will also run in partnership with arts organisations and both regional and national digital artists, who will exhibit throughout the year presenting innovative work to engage and challenge audiences.

One of those taking part is award-winning French artist Laurence Payot, whose work has been commissioned by renowned museums, galleries and live art festivals and takes forms that connect people and challenge our perceptions of each other. Her exhibition during Shift will take place in spring.

Councillor David Brown, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “It is great news that our cultural economy team has secured this grant and it highlights the council’s commitment to digital creativity.

“It promises to be an exciting year of activity and I hope it will inspire a new generation of creators and entrepreneurs.”

The programme will work with Cheshire East Council’s arms-length company, the Skills and Growth Company, as well as Liverpool John Moores University, which will deliver a research programme, and the Mobile FACTLab.

Developed with Fact (Foundation for Art and Creative Technology) Liverpool, the FACTLab will tour town centres and rural locations and offer residents the chance to explore technology that would not normally be accessible to them.

Julian Cobley, managing director of the Skills and Growth Company, said: “The creative and digital sector is one of the fastest growing areas of the economy in Cheshire East, with an accumulated turnover of over £200m.

“This programme will cement the borough’s reputation for creativity and design-led growth by creating new artist opportunities, building capacity and skills and offering wide public engagement.”

College food enterprise zone takes root thanks to streamlined planning process

 

Cheshire East Council has completed the local development order process to enable  Reaseheath College to proceed with ambitious plans to create an innovative food enterprise zone.

The Nantwich college will now develop enhanced teaching facilities with the potential for incubator space for small-to-medium food and farming-related businesses. 

Local development orders were introduced by the government to streamline the planning process for landowners and create greater certainty.

The local development order lasts for 15 years, allowing the college – a beacon of excellence in rural skills and training – to carry out further significant developments without the need to follow traditional planning processes.

The LDO will be regularly reviewed and can be revoked at any point by the council if appropriate to do so.

The FEZ, set up through the LDO, is designed to boost the borough’s rural economy by providing facilities for small-to-medium size enterprises, to develop their businesses in the areas of food production and the agri-economy.

The Reaseheath project is a pilot scheme and the local development order will enable the college to develop new facilities and accommodation which, in normal circumstances, would require a lengthy and detailed planning process.

The council carried out a month-long consultation exercise – including a drop-in workshop – to seek the views of local residents and stakeholders to the college’s wide-reaching plans.

They include the development of six sites to incorporate a nutrition centre and a knowledge and development facility which would use drones and remote imaging to monitor and research crop production.

Councillor Ainsley Arnold, cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “The rural economy in Cheshire East needs to strengthen, become more resilient and diversify.

“Applying the LDO process is an effective way of delivering new opportunities for the college and for the many small-to-medium size enterprises that wish to develop, diversify and grow within a conducive and supportive environment.

“The public consultation resulted in no negative reaction to the college’s plans, and from the council’s standpoint, the LDO has proved to be an uncomplicated process which the council will wish to trial in other parts of the borough in the future.”

Reaseheath principal Meredydd David said: “We are really delighted with this decision and grateful to Cheshire East for their support of our vision for the college and the food enterprise zone and for leading on this project.

“The food and agriculture sector is the UK’s largest manufacturing industry and generates over £100bn for the economy each year.

“The FEZ will enable Reaseheath to respond to the needs of the rural and agricultural industries and to support them in embracing new technologies and innovative systems. It will help businesses to penetrate new markets and to enhance profitability.”

The food enterprise zone will strengthen research, technical development, innovation and skills and will enable more collaborative working along the food supply chain.

The Department for Food and Rural Affairs identified Reaseheath as one of a number of pathfinders for the development of FEZs as part of government and council policy, to drive forward a rural affairs strategy to support businesses operating in the rural economy.

In Cheshire East the rural economy represents 32 per cent of the borough’s £3.6bn economy and provides work for more than 65,000 people.

Details of the adopted LDO, including evidence-based documents prepared to support the preparation of the order, will be made available on the council website.

Middlewich eastern bypass routes to be explored

 

Cheshire East Council has been given the green light to source the best possible route for the construction of the Middlewich eastern bypass.

A number of different routes are to be explored as possible options for the bypass, after Cheshire East secured Department of Transport funding of more than £1.25m to guarantee the road’s delivery.

The scheme is one of only seven nationally to receive money in the latest round of government funding for transport projects. Together with Cheshire East approved funding, this gives a total budget of approximately £2m for the next stage of works.

The bypass will bring significant economic growth to Middlewich, including nearly 2,000 houses and 6,500 jobs.

Councillor David Brown, Cheshire East cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, said: “Receiving this significant investment from central government funds is a hugely positive milestone for the Middlewich eastern bypass project.

“The council is now able to ensure that we fully focus on selecting the most strategic route, ensuring that the taxpayer gets the best value for money.”