Chalk it Up

Omar Saenz, Mexico won the first price and  Ruben Poncia, The Netherlands won most original artist

Chalk it up has been in Crewe for the last 2 days  with lots of public interest with a rare event not that popular in the UK for very big in Italy and other place around the world

The artists, many of them multi-award winners and world renowned, came  from across the globe, including from the United States, Mexico, the Netherlands, Italy, France and the UK.

Pavement art originated in Britain and during the Victorian era, the artists, known as ‘screevers’, flourished around areas where tourists and business people passed through, such as railway stations. Crewe was no exception.

The festival is part of Coloured Earth, a series of international pavement art events and festivals organised by Urban Canvas for the UK.

It is also supported by Toulon International de Street Festival, in France, and Festival Bella Via, in Mexico.

There were 3 local artist from Crewe taking part

artists included

• Vicente Rios Zarazua, Mexico
• Adry Del Rocio, Mexico
• Anthony Cappetto, USA
• Alex Hobby, Nottingham
• Carlos Alberto Garcia, Mexico
• Cesar Polack, Mexico
• Christine Edwards, Crewe
• David Jewkes, Crewe
• Dean Tweedy, Wales
• Ghislaine Monte, The Netherlands
• Hannah Bold, England
• Jean-Marc Navello, France
• Jennifer Chaparro, USA
• John Bulley, England
• Keith Fearon, England
• Ketty Grossi, Italy
• Laurellene, Sturtzer, France
• Mark Sheeky, England
• Mark Steel, London
• Omar Saenz, Mexico
• Phil Garrett, Liverpool
• Ruben Poncia, The Netherlands
• Venessa Scott, Manchester

If it doesn't rain the art should be there on Monday

‘Top notch’ Cheshire East bin collections buck the national trend

Cheshire East Council’s bin collections are bucking the national trend and delivering a top-notch service for residents.

Nationally, councils in England are ‘getting it wrong too often’ when it comes to waste collection complaints, says the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.

Its new report shows the Ombudsman upheld 81 per cent of its complaint investigations into council waste and recycling services last year. This has shot up from 59 per cent the year before, with outsourcing blamed, in part, for this sharp rise.

But in Cheshire East it is a different story – with zero complaints referred to the Ombudsmen about its waste collection service, which has a 90 per cent approval rating with local residents.

Councillor Don Stockton, cabinet member for waste and environmental services, said he is proud to ‘lift the lid’ on this real success story for Cheshire East.

Cllr Stockton said: “Cheshire East is proving its commitment to delivering excellent services that are both responsive to people’s needs and provide value for money for residents. This is also about strong leadership, accountability and putting things right quickly if they go wrong – which is what we strive to do.

“When things go wrong, it’s how councils put them right that really matters. We know how vital this is – and that’s why we listen to residents and greatly value their feedback.”

Chairman of Ansa, Councillor John Hammond, said: “With many councils outsourcing waste services, one of the common issues the Ombudsman has identified is insufficient council oversight.

“That is not the case here at Cheshire East, where our residents benefit from a highly-rated service run by the council’s own innovative arms-length company Ansa – which is wholly-owned by the authority and overseen by elected members.

“This enables the authority to get the benefit of both worlds: retaining the expertise of experienced and highly-dedicated staff – but also the freedom to operate in a more innovative and commercially-minded way to deliver high-quality services and real value for money for local people.”

Waste collection facts:

● 90 per cent waste collection service satisfaction – up from 75 per cent in 2014;

● A recycling rate of more than 55 per cent – which puts Cheshire East in the top 10 of all unitary authorities – thanks to your efforts!;

● Cheshire East Council empties around 13 million bins per year (more than 500,000 per fortnight); and

● No complaints about waste collection received by the Ombudsman.

Cllr Hammond added: “We always strive to get it right first time – but no service is perfect. If you have a problem with your bin collection or our waste and recycling service, you should report it to the council as soon as possible. You can do this via our website at:  www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/recycling or by phoning the waste collection team on: 0300 123 5011.”

Council urges university freshers to get meningitis jab

Cheshire East Council is urging all school leavers to ensure that they have been vaccinated against meningitis W.

After a highly impressive exam season for the young people of East Cheshire, many will be looking forward to accepting their university offers.

Meningitis W is a rare but severe illness that can be spread from person to person, with many people carrying it without ever being affected by it. However, meningitis W can be fatal for as many as one in 10 people who become ill with it and it can have many life-altering after-effects, such as loss of sight or hearing.

The best way that young people can protect themselves is vaccination. The national programme of vaccinating young people as they finish school has reduced the number of cases of this illness in previous years.

Councillor Liz Wardlaw, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for health, said: “This is an exciting time for our young people as they move on to the next stage of their lives. This should be a time in their lives where they can make the most of their education and their time at university.

“The best way to make sure that they stay safe from diseases that are preventable, such as meningitis W, is to be vaccinated against it. This is true for all of our school leavers in East Cheshire whether they’re going to university or heading into employment.”

The Meningitis ACWY vaccine is available from GP practices.

For further information and advice about symptoms and vaccination, please visit: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/men-acwy-vaccine.aspx

Cheshire East signs up to regional transport lobby

Cheshire East Council has joined other local authorities in the north west wishing to form a strategic transport-focused organisation Transport for the North.

By securing a seat at the table, it will give Cheshire East a strong voice in planning and developing a connected transport infrastructure for the whole of the north and north west.

Key objectives for the council will be to see that HS2 delivers the 360-degree connectivity hoped for when high-speed rail arrives in Crewe in 2027.

Extending high-speed rail beyond Crewe to Manchester Airport and Manchester, with aspirations to develop a fast trans-Pennine link, is also high on the agenda.

Council Leader Rachel Bailey said: “Transport for the North will have a major influence on transport investment in the north of England and Cheshire East will have a say in the development of the Strategic Transport Plan for the north.

“The next step is to put Transport for the North on a statutory footing and we are asking government to put the required regulations before Parliament without delay.

“This will help to provide the investment that Cheshire East needs in our infrastructure to support the economic growth and improved quality of life for all our residents.”

Let’s celebrate! Cheshire East students achieve outstanding GCSE results

Cheshire East pupils have achieved yet more success for the borough with an outstanding set of GCSE results.

New reformed GCSEs have been developed to meet the requirements of the government, who wanted more-challenging qualifications and better differentiation of students at the top grades.

Our schools and students have certainly responded to this challenge with the excellent results across our 22 secondary schools.

Provisional figures show that 70 per cent of pupils achieved a ‘standard pass’ or better in English and maths. Nine of our schools were above 75 per cent. Currently, there is no equivalent rate nationally.

In English, a stunning 83 per cent of Cheshire East pupils gained the standard pass or better compared to 65 per cent nationally. This is a remarkable outcome for our schools. Five schools saw over 90 per cent of their learners achieve the standard pass rate.

In maths, 74 per cent of Cheshire East pupils gained the standard pass or better compared with 69 per cent nationally. Six schools saw more than 80 per cent of their students achieve the standard pass.

Analysing performance of learners achieving a strong pass (grade 5), shows that more than 60 per cent of all pupils achieved this level in English and 50 per cent in maths.

Councillor George Hayes, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “The young people of Cheshire East have once again excelled in their GCSE exams and have certainly risen to the challenge of having to deal with new exams arrangements and curriculum content.

“I am absolutely delighted for them, as GCSEs are a really important bedrock for a young person’s future. This time of year is an anxious one for pupils but I really do hope that the agonising wait for results has been worth it.

“I want to thank families, teachers and all school staff, who have worked so very hard to support our pupils and also the young people themselves – who continue to maintain an extraordinarily high success rate in Cheshire East.

“To continue to perform as a local authority at the highest level, year after year, is a real credit to our schools in what continues to be a turbulent and challenging time in educational reforms.

“To achieve these outstanding results requires real determination and commitment from everyone involved and gives every young learner the best opportunity to progress into their next phase of education, apprenticeship, training or employment.”

A530 Middlewich Road to reopen before end of school holidays

Emergency repair work on the A530 Middlewich Road in Nantwich is to be completed next week – to correct damage caused by a United Utilities’ water main failure.

Work has been taking place on a section between Alvaston Roundabout and Marshfield Bank Roundabout to address substantial structural damage to the road following the water burst on July 19.

Both edges of the road had collapsed by four metres, destroying a wall supporting a culvert, or tunnel, which allowed water to flow under the road. Underground cables for key services, such as electricity, were exposed and a significant amount of debris had to be removed, with resurfacing of the road also needed.

Cheshire East Council’s highways team anticipated the repairs would take six to eight weeks to complete. The road will reopen on September 1 – six weeks after the initial water burst and before schools return after the summer holidays.

The road will reopen following work to re-shape and reinforce embankments, strengthen the culvert under the road, install a new retaining wall and repairs to drainage pipework, street lighting and the road surface.

Cheshire East Council understands that the A530 Middlewich Road closure has had a significant impact on members of the public and we thank them for their patience while the essential repairs are completed.

Further information about the repairs on Middlewich Road can be found at: http://bit.ly/2vIuECv.

Manufacturing businesses offered free support and advice

The Council’s arms-length Skills and Growth Company is inviting manufacturing business from across Cheshire to learn about the support available and how to access funding for growth projects.

The free-to-attend lunchtime event will be held at Bentley Motors’ Legends health club on Sunnybank Road, Crewe CW2 8WD, from noon to 2pm on September 19. The event will include a range of speakers from the world of manufacturing whose expertise includes: increasing productivity, improved processes, sustainability and greater efficiency.

With Brexit presenting businesses in Cheshire with a host of opportunities and challenges, the event will support large and smaller companies to ensure they remain competitive and have the opportunity to grow.

Speaking at the event will be the Manufacturing Institute, the Manufacturing Support Service and successful grant applicants who will share their experience of receiving support and applying for grant funding.

To book a place on the event visit: www.skillsandgrowth.co.uk/events or call the Skills and Growth Company on 0300 123 5001.

Councillor George Hayes, chairman of the Skills and Growth Company, said: “After the success of our previous manufacturing event, our aim is to provide further support to the manufacturing sector in Cheshire and provide access to high quality expertise and funding opportunities.”

Council to expand pioneering Fairerpower energy scheme – to help tackle fuel poverty and cut people’s bills

A partnership set up by Cheshire East Council which helped save local residents more than £2m from their energy bills is to be rolled out to the wider region and businesses.

Fairerpower, a partnership between the council and award-winning Ovo Energy, was launched in March 2015 and more than 7,500 customers have so far signed up to buy their gas and electricity via the scheme.

Cheshire East residents have saved an average of £224⁽¹⁾* on their annual fixed-tariff bills, in the past year, after switching.

Fairerpower was formed in the belief that people were spending too much on their energy bills by not switching providers from the ‘big six’ for years. The not-for-profit organisation offers a competitive energy plan that gives more back to the people of Cheshire. 

Now, following a decision today by cabinet, Fairerpower is to be run by the council’s arm’s-length Skills and Growth Company under a new contract.

This will enable Fairerpower to be offered to the wider Midlands and North West region and, in the future, to businesses and social housing providers. It will also be able to develop new partnerships with several energy suppliers and other local authorities to help tackle fuel poverty.

Councillor Don Stockton, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for regeneration, said: “Today’s decision gives the ‘best fit’ to enable the council to sustainably deliver a cheaper fuel alternative to many more households, businesses and social housing providers – leaving more money in residents’ own pockets and helping tackle fuel poverty across the whole region and not just in Cheshire.”

“This was our promise when we started and Fairerpower tariffs have consistently been below the average of the ‘big six’ suppliers and its pre-payment tariffs among the lowest.

The Fairerpower brand may also now be expanded to include non-energy products or services.

Cllr Stockton added: “The Skills and Growth Company has the experience, skills, drive and determination to develop and expand the scheme for the benefit of the people of the wider region.”

Cheshire East Council became the first local authority in the UK to sell power since the gas and electricity supply system was nationalised in 1948.

Since December 2015, Fairerpower has been extended to allow residents living in Cheshire West and Chester to become its customers too.

For more information or to join the scheme, call 0800 4086701 or visit www.fairerpower.co.uk

Virtual reality theatre performance in Knutsford to commemorate Alan Turing trial

The father of the modern computer is to be celebrated with a play and exhibition in Knutsford.

Fifty years after the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality and changes to gay rights in 1967, the trial of the mathematician and code-breaker, Alan Turing, is being interpreted as a live theatre performance and virtual reality exhibition in Knutsford.

Through Cheshire East Council’s Shift programme and Heritage Open Days, the story of Turing’s trial is now being told at The Courthouse Hotel, Knutsford – the same building where he was sentenced to chemical castration 65 years ago when it was known as the ‘Sessions Court’.

The Shift programme, which is also bringing international designer Wayne Hemingway MBE to Macclesfield for a talk next month, celebrates digital achievement in the borough and is supported with Arts Council funding.

The theatre production of the trial will be enhanced with a separate virtual reality experience, with the audience able to view aspects of the trial through headsets.

Re-Dock – the creative company from Manchester, which is putting on the live show and producing the virtual reality experience – is appealing for extras to appear in the filming of the performance to create the courtroom setting. The company is also looking for a courtroom sketch artist to take a front-row seat at each of the performances.

Filming takes place at the Courthouse Hotel on Sunday, September 3 from 3pm. There will be three performances: one on Friday, September 8 at 7pm and two on Saturday, September 9 at 2pm and 7pm. A virtual reality exhibition will also be taking place at the venue from September 7-10.

Re-Dock have worked closely with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community for this production as part of the Heritage Open Days’ theme ‘Unsung Stories’ which celebrates LGBT heritage and history.

This is the first time that anyone has attempted to cover the trial in a live performance and also the first time that the subject has been explored in the setting where the trial took place.

Alan Turing was an English computer scientist and mathematician who worked as a code-breaker at Bletchley Park during the Second World War. He died in 1954, aged 41, from cyanide poisoning.

The theatre production is the centrepiece of the four-day event, hosted by Heritage Open Days, which runs from September 7-10.

Councillor David Brown, Cheshire East Council cabinet member with responsibility for tourism and visitor economy, said: “This is a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to view a show, which combines the best of modern technology in an outstanding venue of historic significance.

“I urge people from Knutsford and much further afield to embrace this chance to see the show and I hope that residents will also be able to assist the theatre group in helping out as extras.

“The Shift programme is producing some outstanding events and is something I am very proud of. The achievements of the digital and creative sector in the borough are vast and this programme is doing an excellent job in telling a wider audience.”

Heritage Open Days has commissioned Re-Dock in collaboration with Cheshire East Council’s Shift programme and The Courthouse Hotel with funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery. The event is also being supported locally by Knutsford Promenade Association.

Council to strengthen links with voluntary community faith sector

Making the best of the expertise ‘on our doorstep’ was the theme of the day as Cheshire East Council hosted a commissioning event for adults and children’s services.

The event, at Sandbach Town Hall was aimed at maximising the positive impact of how partnership working with the voluntary, community and faith (VCF) sector ensures services are delivered to the heart of the borough’s communities. The council will continue to build partnerships with some of the most passionate and dedicated providers.

Cheshire East is focusing on four themes: reducing dependency; early help and prevention; skills and employment; and health and wellbeing, in order to reshape the way that the authority works and to create new and sustainable initiatives.

Councillor Paul Bates, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities and finance said: “Sharing expertise and working together is a big part of our strategy and events like this ensure that we are best placed to deliver those objectives in a timely fashion.

“We need to change the way we do things, unlock creativity and be innovative.  Working with the voluntary, community and faith sector will bring more cost-effective, flexible and responsive services that are delivered to our communities by people who are passionate about caring for those that need it most.”

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service August 2017 E-Newsletter - FiRELiNK

Subject: Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service August 2017 E-Newsletter - FiRELiNK

---

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

(Please do not reply or forward this email directly; please use the Reply, Share buttons at the bottom of this message)

Message sent by

Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Fire , Administrator, Cheshire Fire)

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

---

Apply to be a Cheshire firefighter

Our latest wholetime firefighter recruitment campaign got underway on Monday 14 August.

The initial stages of the recruitment process will be undertaken online and the process will stay open until 4pm on Wednesday 30 August.

This method of recruitment is designed to make an initial assessment of the potential to work as a firefighter using a range of specifically designed questions examining the qualities and basic knowledge required for the role.

Find out more - Apply to be a Cheshire firefighter

---

Summer safety

Stay safe during the summer months, use the links below to access fire safety tips and advice:

• Barbecue Safety

• Camping Safety

• Caravan Safety

• Countryside Safety

• Water Safety

---

Fire Station open days

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service fire stations will be holding free fire station open days over the next few months.

Find out more - Fire Station open days

Find out about your local fire station - where it is, what open days or special events they are holding and how to get in contact with them.

Find out more - Your local fire station

---

Biker Down courses

If you were the first on the scene of an accident 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.

Find out more - Biker Down

Keep your home secure during the holiday season

Subject: Keep your home secure during the holiday season

---

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

(Please do not reply or forward this email directly; please use the Reply, Share buttons at the bottom of this message)

Message sent by

Lisa Cooper (Police, Police Staff, Cheshire)

We’re already more than halfway through the summer break and over the coming week’s thousands of families will be off on holiday

With this in mind Cheshire Police is keen to remind people about the importance of home security.

Inspector Angela Marinari said: “The summer holidays are often a popular time families to take their annual holiday, whether that’s driving down to the coast or flying off to an exotic islands.

“With so many things to organise in preparation for your holiday, it’s easy to forget about your home security whilst you’re away – however it can be a very expensive item to forget.

“That’s why we’re keen to remind everyone of the steps they can take to help improve home security.”

There are a number of simple steps that everyone can take to make sure your home is secure whilst you’re away. These include:

Home Security:

Make sure you close and lock all of your windows and doors before you go leave the house.

Consider using a timer to set your lights and radio to come on while you’re away.

Don’t leave valuables including purses, handbags and car keys on display or near external doors

Consider security marking valuable items with your house number and postcode with a UV pen, or mark it using property marking kits which consist of a traceable liquid.

Ensure that garages and sheds are locked with strong padlocks and, ideally, fitted with an alarm

Consider installing outside lights - dusk till dawn lights with a low wattage bulb will give a constant light when needed. They switch on as it gets dark and turn off when it gets lighter.

Vehicle Security:

If you’re leaving your car at home make sure it’s secure and ensure that your keys are kept out of sight away from any windows and doors.

If you’re using airport parking make sure you don’t leave any personal items or letters within your vehicle.

If you ever use ‘Meet and Greet’ services make sure you keep hold of your house keys whilst you’re away.

If you have a garage, use it. Always lock your car and your garage door. If you don’t have a garage, park on your drive or on a well-lit street.

Never leave anything on display in your vehicle - a bag on the back seat is enough to tempt a thief

Always remove your portable Sat Nav system including any support cradles and suctions pads that are fitted to the windscreen

Inspector Marinari added: “We can’t stress enough how important it is for people to be security conscious – especially during the summer months and whilst you’re on holiday.

“We are committed to tackling this type of crime but we need the continued support of members of the public.

“We would urge you to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity in your area immediately and to address your own home security measures to make life even more difficult for opportunistic thieves.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101.

Cheshire East A-level students chalk up higher successes and beat national averages again!

A-Level students in Cheshire East have once again chalked up impressive results that are above the national average. This year sees new A-level and AS level qualifications being taken following the phasing in of revised syllabuses.

The borough’s 1,685 students received their results this morning and they have again achieved a provisional pass rate of 99 per cent, which is above the national average of 98 per cent.

The further breakdown of grades shows that the proportion of students achieving grades A* to A was 27 per cent, which is higher than the proportion nationally and well over half (54 per cent) achieved an A* to B grade. What is particularly pleasing is the continuing increase in the number of students achieving the highest grade of A* with 10% of Cheshire East students attaining this grade compared to a national figure of 8%

Councillor George Hayes, cabinet member for children and families, said: "This year's exam results, once again, are extremely impressive and I congratulate all the sixth-formers on their achievements.

“To continue to perform as an authority at the highest level year after year is a real credit to our schools in what continues to be a turbulent time for curriculum and assessment changes at a national level.

"I'd also like to offer my thanks to parents, teachers, school staff and governors for all their efforts. It will have been an anxious time for students and their families as they await the result of years of hard work and having that strong support network makes such a positive difference to our young people.

"Our learners have shown great drive to achieve the highest grades possible and maximise their potential, so I am very pleased to join them by celebrating the continued trend of improvement across the borough.

"I wish our young people all the very best for the future, whether they are continuing their studies into further or higher education, apprenticeships or putting their foot on the first rung of the ladder in the work place.

"We work alongside our wholly-owned Skills and Growth Company to help ensure young people have the appropriate skills and qualifications to consider the right career choice for them once they receive their results, so that they can make a full contribution to our successful local economy."

For more information about the company, visit www.skillsandgrowth.co.uk

Charity head-shave duo raise thousands

Crewe-based friends Kerri Williams and Tom Essex who shaved their heads at a recent charity event have presented cheques totalling £2,720 to Kidney Care UK and Head Injured People in Cheshire (HIP).

As part of a “fifty before fifty” series of challenges, Kerri organised the head shave in memory of her mother, and local barman Tom also stepped forward to shed his golden locks for charity. 

Kerri, who works at Bentley Motors, drew up a list of fifty unusual and exciting challenges that have seen her take on the Acerbital Slide at the Olympic Park, brave the Velocity Zipline in North Wales, and complete the Crystal Maze in Manchester.

The charity hair cut took place at Crewe’s Crosville Club as part of an evening of celebration and fundraising. Rock and Pop band SWaY performed live, and local DJs played a wide range of music.

Kerri said: “Cutting my hair was drastic, but it’s always been something that I have wanted to do and it was a great way to raise vital funds for charity.

“It was for my Mum, and for kidney dialysis patients who go through four-hour treatment sessions, three times each week!

“I’m so grateful to everyone who attended the event and donated money. I can’t believe that we raised so much on the night, and more through the Just Giving website. 

“Tom had his hair cut in aid of Head Injured People in Cheshire, and it was wonderful being able to hand over the cheque to Ian Skaithe from the HIP charity in person.

“There are so many great people helping to run charities and they deserve all the support they can get.”

Kerri’s hair was donated to the Little Princess Trust who provide real hair wigs for children suffering with hair loss. 

Council to update and streamline its constitution to improve efficiency

Cheshire East Council is to update and streamline its constitution – the legal framework which governs the way the council operates and how its decisions are made.

The review will focus on refining current processes and procedures to maximise efficiency, governance and transparency.  It will result in the production of a new constitution that will provide greater clarity around how the council operates and enable greater community engagement with the democratic process.

Although the council has made regular updates, it has decided upon a fresh and holistic approach to developing a new constitution.

The council commissioned Bevan Brittan Solicitors – legal advisers to the public sector - to carry out an initial review of its current constitution and report back.

As a result, the council’s constitution committee has now appointed a sub-committee of eight elected members to progress the review and make recommendations for any changes that should be made.

Final proposals for a new constitution will go to full council for consideration.

The council’s Acting Chief Executive, Kath O’Dwyer, said: “We welcome the extremely helpful advice of our external legal advisers and will set in motion a comprehensive programme of work to review the current constitution, bringing together the recommendations and aspirations of elected members and officers.”

Councillor Andrew Martin, chairman of the constitution committee, said: “Our intention is that this review will ensure efficient and transparent decision making and make the democratic process more accessible to our residents, members of the council, officers, our partners and stakeholders.”

Talented local artist Christian Turner

Reporter Thanks. Jonathan White

Talented local artist Christian Turner, aged 23 from Sandbach, has produced an oil painting of Nantwich Town Square, which is available to buy as a card. The card can be purchased in Nantwich from Nantwich Square News (High Street), Special Cards (Market Street) and Inside Paradise (Oat Market). Christian plans to produce more scenes of Nantwich before the end of the year.

Christian, who has autism, has also painted scenes within Sandbach, as well as birds, marine life and has started experimenting with geometric patterns. Christian has been drawing since he was a child and studied A-Level Art at Sandbach School.

Christian said, "I really enjoy my work and I hope other people will enjoy my work as I continue into the future."

For further information please visit https://www.christianturnerart.com or contact him via email: christian.turner@yahoo.co.uk or telephone: 07432116922.

New Testament Church of God (NTCG),

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

New Testament Church of God (NTCG), The Lighthouse Centre celebrated the 50 year Golden Jubilee Anniversary in August this year.

NTCG purchased their church building at 56 Stewart Street, Crewe in 1967.

The first NTCG public service in the UK was held in September 1953 in Wolverhampton. It was a result of the arrival of immigrants from the West Indies coming from NTCG, many of whom were committed Pentecostal Christians.

The NTCG church in Crewe became known as New Testament of God, The Lighthouse Centre, in 2014 as "We are called to be light in the midst of the darkness. The Lighthouse is the best modern day symbol that really captures our passion and vision."

Celebratory events included prayers, thanksgiving and worship, a gala dinner, tributes to founding members of NTCG Crewe, a community fun day and a Civic Celebratory service. A commemorative booklet and timeline banner were also produced to mark the occasion. The first pastor of NTCG Crewe - Rev Glenford Hutchinson from Florida USA - was present at the celebrations.

Congratulations messages were received from Bishop Headley Gayle; Bishop Donald Bolt, NTCG National Overseer; Councillor Diane Yates, Crewe Town Mayor; Dawn Clark, Community Development Manager, Partnerships and Communities, Cheshire East Council; Laura Smith, MP for Crewe & Nantwich; and Jennie Wakefield, Chairperson, Churches Together in Crewe.

Regular events taking place at The Lighthouse Centre are: Sunday (11am) - Youth and Childrens club; Sunday (3pm) - Family Worship Service; Wednesday - Prayer & Fast; Thursday (7pm) - Homeless meal; one Saturday a month - men's and women's prayer breakfast.

The Lighthouse Centre pastor Rev. David Edwards said, "Through God's help and the invaluable contribution and ongoing support of all our members, friends, volunteers and community partners, over the past fifty years we have been able to help meet the physical, social and spiritual needs of many within our community and we look forward to the future years of Ministry, Service and partnerships within this great town of Crewe."

For further details please telephone 01270 668996, mobile 07980011803; www.facebook.com/ ntcgcrewe

Borough’s landlords face fixed penalties for poor tenant housing standards and potential fire risks

Cheshire East Council’s housing enforcement policy is to be strengthened to ensure residents in rented accommodation get the best housing standards with the right fire protection in place.

Private landlords, including social housing landlords, face civil penalties of up to £30,000 following the introduction of the 2016 Housing and Planning Act, which came into force in April this year.

Landlords can also be ordered to make rent repayments if inspections reveal sub-standard housing conditions or failures in safety protection measures, including fire protection.

The new legislation requires local authorities to develop and document their own policy on when to apply sanctions, with each case determined on its merits.

Civil penalties can be used as an alternative to prosecution for a number of offences under the 2004 Housing Act, including:

· Failure to comply with an improvement notice for hazards such as excess cold, falls, domestic and personal hygiene and fire;

· Offences relating to houses in multiple occupation;

· Overcrowding.

The civil penalties are different from fixed penalties in that they are applied after the landlord has failed to carry out corrective actions and all other procedures, including appeals, have expired.

While £30,000 is the maximum fine, civil penalties can be as low as £1,000 but will be calculated on the degree of culpability and potential or actual harm.

Rent repayment orders can also be applied where a landlord has failed to obtain a licence for a property in multi-occupancy, has threatened a tenant, illegally evicted a tenant or failed to comply with a banning order.

Councillor Ainsley Arnold, cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “We want to make sure as a council that landlords in the borough, and their tenants, are aware of the measures that are being taken to ensure that housing in the rental market is of a high standard and meets the required criteria for health and safety.

“Poor housing can lead to health risks, especially from damp properties, and in some cases it is children who can be placed at risk.

“As a council we take our responsibilities for housing standards in all sectors very seriously.” 

Further information about the Cheshire East Enforcement Policy as it relates to civil penalties for rented housing can be found at: http://bit.ly/2v6DtZN

HMRC scam

Subject: HMRC scam

---

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

(Please do not reply or forward this email directly; please use the Reply, Share buttons at the bottom of this message)

Message sent by

Sarah Marson (Police, PC, Crewe LPU Nantwich Beat Mgmt)

We have received reports of people receiving a pre-recorded message claiming to be from HMRC.
In it you are told to call 01613549940 to fix the problem, which is urgent.
Please ignore this message and report any concerns to Action Fraud-0300123 2040
Please share this information with any relatives/ neighbours who may be vulnerable to this type of scam.

Wistaston 'Duck Race

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston

The annual Wistaston 'Duck Race and Children’s Model Boat Race' takes place on Saturday 9th September 2017 at Joey the Swan recreation ground, Wistaston.

Stalls open from 1pm. Children’s Model Boat Race starts at 2:30pm. Duck Race starts at 3:15pm. Duck Race tickets = £1 each (available on the day). The event is organised by members of the Wistaston Community Council. The main sponsors are Wistonia Electrical & Security Ltd.

Heavy goods vehicle on its side in Faddiley, Nantwich

Firefighters have rescued a casualty from an overturned heavy goods vehicle on Woodhey Hall Lane in Faddiley in Nantwich.
The casualty, the driver of the vehicle, was safely removed from the lorry on a spinal board using height safety lines and a ladder. The casualty was then taken to hospital.
Woodhey Hall Lane has been closed while the incident is dealt with.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
More information about this incident can be found on the Cheshire Fire and Recsue Service website:
http://www.cheshirefire.gov.uk/news-events/incidents/heavy-goods-vehicle-on-its-side-in-faddiley

Former children’s centre sold

A children’s centre which lay derelict for years has now been sold.

Cheshire East Council’s wholly owned strategic property company, Engine of the North, has finalised a deal to sell the former Redsands Children’s Centre in Willaston, near Nantwich.

Subject to planning, Richmond Care Villages will transform the site into a specialist centre of excellence in dementia care. The new facility will create 80 jobs and operate as a satellite campus to Richmond’s existing care village in Nantwich.

Councillor Ainsley Arnold, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for housing and planning, said: This is a welcome opportunity for a respected care organisation to provide services to some of our most vulnerable residents.”

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Chairman of Engine of the North said: “We’re pleased to have exchanged contracts to sell the former Redsands Children’s Centre, for a development that will bring the site back into economic use and create new jobs locally.”

A planning application for the new care facility has been submitted to Cheshire East Council. Under the plans, Cheshire East would retain ownership of the land to the east of the former centre, which includes a pond and football pitch. The existing public footpath which runs along the eastern boundary of the site will be maintained.

Help needed to keep site going

For over 9 years I have run www.crewenews.net and www.queensparkcrewe.com In all that time I have paid for everything myself and used my own camera to take over 75,000 photos of the Queens Park and Crewe.

I am now 69 years old and on a pension and cant keep up the web site fees and my camera is past it so I am looking for support from my readers in the form of donation so the sites dont have to close.

Please spread the word and make a donation

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jan-wright

Rugby team goes the distance

Members of Crewe and Nantwich RUFC completed an 86-mile challenge last week to raise funds for the rugby club and also make a donation to the ‘We Love Manchester’ fund.

Thirteen players and coaches from the club took on a cycle and walking mission that started in Carlisle and ended across the country at Heddon-on-the-wall, near Newcastle.

The challenge was completed inside twenty four hours, with those taking part cycling, then walking, before returning to the bikes for the final miles.

Jon Cockburn, Chair of Crewe and Nantwich RUFC, said: “We have completed numerous challenges of over the years, including the Three Peaks, Lyke Wake Walk, Coast-to-Coast and the Great Lakes.

“This year’s route took us across country and onto Hadrian’s Wall, so there was history as well as fitness and fundraising involved.

“The rugby club relies on donations and sponsorship, so the money we raise will help to upkeep vital facilities that all ages can use.

“With the recent Manchester tragedy fresh in everyone’s mind, we will also be making a donation to the We Love Manchester fund.”

The club effort was supported along the route by Neil Smith from Side by Side Care, who drove a mini bus to carry essential equipment and supplies.

He said: “I am a member of the club, and we love to support local organisations. This was a massive effort by all concerned, so supplying our company van was the least we could do.”  

The rugby club was joined by other local businesses who have supported the rugby club throughout the year, including Auto Vent, Trident Gas services and ARH Group.

Pledges are still being collected, but over £2700 has already been raised. 

Family FunZone unveiled for Nantwich Food Festival

The Nantwich Food Festival is gearing up to offer families and children a fabulous experience with Hall Smith Whittingham’s Family FunZone marquee set to delight all ages.

Additional sponsorship by the Cheshire legal firm has enabled festival committee members to create an exciting programme of activities for the anticipated 40,000 visitors. 

The new marquee will be located near HSW’s Nantwich office by Market Street, hosting a range of exhibits and entertainment under cover, and on the firm’s nearby lawns.

Roger Mills, festival director, said: “Having another major local company provide valuable marquee space is a huge boost for the festival.

“Crewe and Nantwich businesses have shown amazing support again, and their backing allows us to improve the festival offering each year.

“It’s a cliché to say that this year’s event will be the best yet, but we are all very excited and can’t wait to reveal some of the new attractions.”   

With a focus on children and families, the HSW Family FunZone marquee will stage dance and circus workshops in conjunction with local organisations.

RedShift Radio, Funsters and Dr Zig’s will be on hand to provide music, games, crazy bubbles and face-painting fun. 

Children can learn how to milk a cow, complete giant floor jigsaws that show where farm produce comes from, and experience mysterious “feely” boxes with hidden secrets.

KidzKitchen will introduce mums, tots and young foodies to some delicious cookery ideas, while older children can test their BBQ skills with a burger cook-off run by Clewlow Butchers.

There will also be old favourites such as hook-a-duck, hula-hoop, hopscotch and other traditional games that children and adults love to play. 

Angela Lewis, Marketing Partner at Hall Smith Whittingham, said: “We love the idea of staging activities that will engage all of the family, and encourage participation for anyone who wants to get involved.

“We are delighted to be teaming up with X Academy School of Performing Arts and other groups who will be running workshops in the marquee.

“Everyone at Hall Smith Whittingham believes in teamwork and supporting each other. That ethos is extended to the local community, so hosting one of the marquees is the perfect way to reach out and give something back.”

Entry to the Nantwich Food Festival marquees and exhibitions is free, with a varied programme of events, music and entertainment spread across the three days.

The Nantwich Food Festival takes place from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 September.

Further details about this year’s festival can be found on the official website

www.nantwichfoodfestival.co.uk. 

Communities come together for ‘play day’ at Queens Park

Services from across Cheshire East Council joined together with many local partners as Crewe got in the spirit of ‘National Play Day’ on Wednesday.

The national day, which started in 1987 with just a couple of events, is now the biggest celebration of children’s play in the UK. This is the second time that Crewe has hosted the event with Queens Park being the venue on both occasions.

The play day included activities such as archery, football, space-hopping, arts and crafts and den-building.

The team at Cheshire East also organised 10 minute ‘shake-up’ activities – a ‘Change4Life’ programme of exercises for children and young people.

Councillor Paul Bates, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities and finance, said: “I want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making this event happen. It demonstrates why play is fundamental for children’s enjoyment of childhood, and vital for their health, well-being and development. 

“The event was a brilliant example of connected communities coming together and working in true partnership to deliver a fun and free event for children and families to enjoy.”

The council were supported by many different community groups and partners including Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Everybody Sport and Recreation, Friends of Queens Park, Creative Crewe, Active Cheshire and Cheshire East wholly-owned company, Ansa.

There is strong evidence that regular physical activity is associated with numerous health benefits for children. National guidelines recommend that children and young people should engage in moderate to vigorous activity for at least 60 minutes per day.

For more information, including hints and tips for staying active over the summer holidays visit www.change4life.org or www.oneyoucheshireeast.org

Buildings grant success will be huge boost for Cheshire East schools

Cheshire East Council is working with 19 schools and children centres on capital programmes aimed at improving the quality of buildings, to promote the best learning environments for all young people.

Schools in Cheshire East will benefit from a £1m boost aimed at improving the environments in which children in the borough are educated.

Using a Department for Education capital grant allocation, the council has encouraged maintained schools to carefully consider their current building infrastructure and bid to the council for this funding. Schools have been encouraged to draw upon their own school funds to supplement this grant so that as many schools as possible can benefit.

In previous successful schemes, schools have targeted the remodelling of existing environments to create new learning spaces, improved accessibility for disabled learners, as well as providing new specialist surroundings to enhance the curriculum.

The grant funding can also be used to address repairs to existing defects as well as providing ongoing maintenance to keep buildings in good condition.

At a time when the shortage of funding for schools is often highlighted, this initiative shows the council’s commitment to maximising the return on capital grants. It also illustrates the positive relationships with schools, as it draws on the expertise of council staff, and the schools themselves to effectively manage this programme.

Councillor George Hayes, cabinet member for children and families said: “We all want the best learning environments for our children to achieve and develop to their full potential and this scheme illustrates how best to maximise the capital resources available to achieve that.

“I look forward to visiting schools after the summer break to see these new resources in place and to see learners and staff benefiting from this investment.

“This council is fully committed to providing sufficient school places and a variety of projects are underway.

“The future of school improvement has to be through highly effective collaboration and this programme illustrates how school leaders, governors and local authority teams can successfully combine their skills and resources to really make a difference for young people.’’

Lyndsey Atkins, headteacher at Goostrey Community Primary School, said: “We are delighted to be having a music room built. It will enable our music specialists to facilitate greater learning opportunities, allowing pupils to develop their talents and skills in a dedicated space.  We are looking forward to using it next term and seeing the many benefits it will undoubtedly bring.”