Criminals Targeting People With Universal Credit Scam

Criminals Targeting People With Universal Credit Scam

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--------- SCAM WARNING ---------
Dear subscriber,
Action Fraud has received 63 reports about a scam in which fraudsters target people with offers of “low cost” loans or “free” government grants. What the victims aren’t told is that the money they’ll receive is actually an advance payment for Universal Credit. The criminals use the personal information they’ve obtain under false pretences to make an application in the victim’s name. After the fraudsters have taken their “fee” from the advance payment, the victim is then left to pay back the total amount once their repayments begin.
How you can protect yourself:

• Never share your personal or financial information with someone you don’t know and trust, especially if it’s in response to an offer of “free money” or a “free grant”.

• Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) staff will never approach you in the street or ask for your personal/financial details over social media.

• If you have concerns about your benefits, you should visit www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus

• If you suspect your identity may have been stolen, you can check your credit rating quickly and easily online. You should do this every few months anyway, using a reputable service provider and following up on any unexpected or suspicious results.

Message Sent By
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)

Bridges of plastic – used bottles recycled in council’s repair and maintenance programme

Walkers using two of the borough’s footbridges will be treading on recycled plastic bottles as Cheshire East Council takes a further step on its climate change strategy.

With ‘oceans’ of plastic becoming a world-wide issue, the council has commissioned an eco-friendly way of putting old plastic bottles to a useful purpose.

The council’s highways bridges and structures team is about to embark on a second project – using glass reinforced plastic (GRP) – to repair a footbridge over the Silk Road in Macclesfield. This follows the success of its first scheme in Wistaston, where the material was used to resurface a footbridge across Wistaston Brook, in Crewe.

The area is known as ‘Joey the Swan’ and is popular with walkers and cyclists.*

Each square metre of new replacement decking contains a foam infill made from more than 4,500 plastic bottles. The product is produced by specialist surfacing and structures manufacturer Polydeck, using a fully-recyclable composite ‘green’ foam material produced by their supplier in Oldham.

The process and end product uses hundreds of thousands of single-use plastic bottles, which are transformed into an inner-core foam, which is used in a wide range of industrial applications. 

Councillor Brian Roberts, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for highways and waste, said: “The council is fully committed to using recycled materials wherever we can provide a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

“The work that has been carried out on the footbridge in Wistaston has completely transformed its appearance, as the old timber decking was in a poor state of repair and in need of restoration.

“The council will be looking at other opportunities to apply recycled materials and the latest project to use this material will be the footbridge across the Silk Road, in Macclesfield, which is about to undergo extensive maintenance work.”

Chris Spooner, managing director of Polydeck, said: “This is a sustainable and enterprising application for recycled single-use plastic bottles. We are pleased to be part of the process for addressing one of the biggest problems facing the planet today.

“Cheshire East Council is one of a growing number of end-users who are recognising the value of utilising an eco-product of this type in such a practical way.”

Ian McLauchlan, bridges and structures manager for Cheshire East Council’s highways team, said: “This is a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing material, which is non-slip, doesn’t rot like timber and does not gather moss or weeds.

“Maintenance is minimal, saving money for the council and the material is ideal for use in difficult to access, rural locations.”

Borough’s countryside rangers pay tribute to colleagues killed or injured worldwide

Cheshire East Council’s countryside ranger service is supporting World Ranger Day on 31 July to celebrate the work they carry out around the globe and commemorate rangers killed or injured while doing their job.

This particularly relates to rangers operating in dangerous or high-risk zones.

The borough’s countryside rangers belong to a worldwide community working in an estimated 100,000 reserves, parks and protected areas on the planet, protecting wildlife and the natural environment.

In Britain, the event is organised by the Countryside Management Association and International Ranger Federation in conjunction with the charity The Thin Green Line.

Richard Doran, Cheshire East Council’s countryside manager, said: “We are here to help the public enjoy our countryside and in Cheshire East we have some splendid open spaces, parks, trails and nature reserves for people to enjoy.

“World Ranger Day offers the opportunity to recognise the outstanding work carried out by rangers, every day, throughout the world.

“Here in Cheshire East, we may not face the same challenges as rangers in some of the world’s more dangerous and remote spots but only recently – on what was the hottest day of the year so far – we had to rescue an elderly woman and a young child after their vehicle became stuck in a forest. They were so grateful that a ranger was on hand.

“We are supported by volunteers, who deliver the equivalent of 1,200 days per year and we get around 1.8 million visitors to our sites, including Tatton Park.” 

The borough’s countryside ranger service looks after country parks, sites of special scientific interest and many of the borough’s popular nature reserves. They plant trees, look after rare breeds, such as the Bollin Valley longhorn cattle, prepare management plans, carry out ecological assessments and bid for the funding needed to carry out their work.

At Tatton Park, rangers are responsible for the deer park, with its red and fallow deer and the flocks of rare breed sheep that help maintain the conservation status of the park. The enjoyment and safety of visitors, conservation of wildlife and management of an important environmental and heritage asset, are among the roles for rangers and their volunteers.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “Many of us will have watched wildlife programmes on television and seen for ourselves the poaching of endangered and protected species.

“Fortunately, our own rangers do not face that kind of danger but the work that they do in Cheshire East is as important to us, as residents and councillors, as it is to those governments and ranger services trying to tackle the issue of poaching.”

Rangers manage and care for the thousands of acres of parkland, woodland, country parks and protected green spaces across the borough, along with many miles of trails.

They include the Gritstone Trail, Tegg’s Nose Country Park above Macclesfield, the Middlewood Way and the heritage visitor centres, such as Nelson Pit in Higher Poynton. The rangers also run a comprehensive programme of special events, country walks and even climbing experiences.

To find out more about the Countryside Ranger Service visit: https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

To find out more about Tatton Park visit: www.tattonpark.org.uk

Post-Grenfell safety certificate for council’s building control company

Two members of Cheshire East Council’s building control company Civicance have gained specialist fire safety certificates introduced as a result of the Grenfell fire tragedy.

Managing director Ian Bunn and consultancy manager Andrew Logan gained the qualifications, which demonstrate competence in fire safety around high-risk and complex buildings.

The fire safety qualification demonstrates the competence to enable building surveyors to inspect any high-rise or complex building and advise on the removal of any hazardous material or to introduce additional safety measures or materials.

Ian and Andrew gained the certificates through Local Authority Building Control in association with the Institution of Fire Engineers. The qualification is a direct response to requirements set out in the Hackitt Review.

Dame Judith Hackitt carried out the independent review of building regulations and fire safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in June 2017, when more than 70 people died and a further 70 were injured. As a result, the government is now consulting on a new regulatory framework to improve fire safety in high-rise residential tower blocks and has published new legislation to ban the use of combustible materials on residential buildings of more than six storeys.

Ian said: “The Grenfell Tower disaster was a wake-up call to the industry and local authorities to ensure that buildings are safe and that all materials used in the construction of tower blocks are of the required safety standard.

“This certificate of competence demonstrates the commitment of Civicance to the delivery of high-quality services on behalf of Cheshire East Council.”

Councillor Toni Fox, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for planning, which includes building control, said: “Cheshire East Council takes the safety of all its residents extremely seriously and I congratulate Ian and Andrew on their achievement in this very important area of building control and public safety.”

In addition to its commitment to competency, reflected in the award of these certificates, Civicance has recently welcomed a new member to the team. Steve Mansfield brings to the organisation 32 years experience in the building control sector.

Anyone wishing to enquire about fire safety or building regulations can do so by contacting Civicance online at: https://bit.ly/2K0vC6Y

Three council services announced as finalists in public service awards

Three services provided by Cheshire East Council have been shortlisted for national Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) awards.

The awards recognise high-performing councils which are striving to continually improve frontline services.

The Cheshire East Carers’ Hub has been shortlisted in the ‘best health and wellbeing initiative’ category. The hub provides a single point of access for information, advice and guidance for the estimated 40,000 carers across Cheshire East, including a 24-hour ‘help and talk’ line and access to funded breaks.

Cheshire East Connected Communities Centres has been shortlisted in the ‘best community and neighbourhood initiative’ category.  Around 40 centres across the borough offer a wider range of activities and support services to reduce social isolation and enable local people to experience greater wellbeing.

The Crewe Green Roundabout improvement scheme is a key project in an ambitious £320m programme of highways works, designed to free up capacity, ease congestion and pave the way for economic growth ahead of the opening of the planned HS2 Hub in Crewe in 2027. The roundabout scheme was shortlisted in the ‘service team of the year (highways, winter maintenance and street lighting)’ category.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the finalists in these prestigious awards, demonstrating that we are reaching out to our communities, improving access to services, investing in the future and ultimately improving services for the residents of Cheshire East. 

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council added “Whilst this is excellent news, we are not resting on our laurels.  We are a learning organisation and staff, councillors and our partners continue to work hard to make the borough a great place to live, work and visit. We wish all the teams the best of luck at the finals on 12 September.”

Council premieres film promoting early help for parents

Cheshire East Council has thanked families who featured in a short film promoting the early help on offer for parents at one of their children’s centres.

The film explains the council’s ‘parenting journey’ which is delivered in partnership with health professionals and supports parents from pregnancy until the child starts school. 

The journey has 12 stops, including sessions for parents and children in their local children’s centres, support for the child’s language and communication, home health visits and getting ready for school.

The most recent event on 19 July was a special preview screening to some of the stars who were featured in the film, including 18 month-old Jack, Noah and Zaiden along with their mums and four-week old baby Willow, who came along to support her big brother.

The parenting journey programme is a fun informal way for mums-to-be, new mums, dads, grandparents and carers to learn more about their child’s development, speak to health and childcare professionals and also a chance to meet other parents.

Councillor Dorothy Flude, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families said: “I’d like to thank all those who took part in this short film that promotes a really important service. Viewers will see, first hand, from parents about the wealth of support, advice and information available from staff at our children’s centres and how valuable contact with others is in supporting their own parenting journey.

“Having the opportunity to access a strong early-help offer is vital to families as it provides the support they need as soon as they need it and prevents problems from escalating.“

Parent, Louisa said: “I think if I’d not had this resource, I would have been more anxious, not had as much good information and been a lot more isolated, which would have had an impact on my mental health.”

Watch the short film on the Cheshire East YouTube channel and for more information visit: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/parentingjourney

Fun for everyone at Tatton Park’s Farm this summer!

Join in the fun this summer at Tatton Park’s Farm, with oodles of activities to delight the entire family from July 23^rd – August 23^rd 2019.

Set in a corner of the Park known as Tatton Dale, the Farm is an authentic working farm and was in its’ heyday at the heart of the vast Tatton estate - feeding family, guests and staff. Delve into this ‘Field to Fork’ story and make the most of your visit - from milking demonstrations to fun dog shows, ice cream making to sheep racing, meeting the chicks in the hatchery to jam making – there’s something for everybody!

You can talk to the Teamsman and watch traditional farm machinery in action, or join in the excitement with Tractor Ted on Tour. Celebrate rural life at our Traditional Country Fair and get back to nature with the whole family for Forest Fun week - there’s plenty to keep you and your family busy during the summer holidays.

Weekly highlights in August showcase three new events:

Tractor Week (3^rd – 9^th Aug) learn all about tractors and their importance to the Farmer, grab a selfie with our brand-new John Deere tractor or lift your spirits on the famous big green Tractor Ted bouncy castle! Birds of Prey Week (10^th – 16^th Aug) get up close and personal to watch these majestic birds swooping in the sky with the falconry team. Family Forest Fun Week (17^th – 23^rd Aug) let your imaginations run wild with den building, woodland storytelling, navigation, and marshmallows over the campfire.

Throughout August, experience the taste of summer with ice cream, jam and cheese making demonstrations, including free tastings and recipes to take away. Watch Berry, the beautiful Jersey cow being milked, and see how her fresh milk is made into cheese. Sample vanilla, honeycomb and fruits-of-the-forest ice cream made from the same fresh milk and find out how to make homemade jam.

Farm Manager Jayne Chapman said,

“We can’t wait to show visitors our fantastic new activities this summer - there’s so much to see and do, not forgetting the return of our fabulous Maize Maze and of course our lovely rare breed animals!”

Visit tattonpark.org.uk for more info and details of what’s on and when.

Council to consult on Live Well online services directory

Cheshire East Council is seeking the views of residents to help with the development of the award-winning online services directory Live Well Cheshire East.

Launched almost two years ago, Live Well is a one stop online resource giving residents greater choice and control to support themselves and their family.

Live Well provides useful information and advice on a range of subjects, plus an easy-to-use directory of over 3,000 services and activities in local areas.

Councillor Laura Jeuda, cabinet member for health said, “Whether you want to know more about groups and clubs, or need advice about health matters, money management, care and support for adults or children’s services, Live Well Cheshire East can help you.

“We are holding a series of focus groups across Cheshire East to gather a range of views from our residents on some of the improvements being proposed”.

There are nine focus groups being held in total, based in Crewe, Macclesfield and Middlewich, and these will be taking place from Thursday 1 August – Thursday 22 August.

Cheshire East Council are looking for individuals to register their interest in attending their chosen session on Eventbrite online.

More information, including the links to each Eventbrite session, can be found here: https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/livewell/campaigns/live-well-review.aspx

Cheshire East’s junior recycling champions are crowned

Pupils from two Cheshire East primary schools have been crowned recycling champions thanks to their efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle waste.

Over the past year, a record 180 pupils from 50 of the borough’s schools have been taking part in the junior recycling officer scheme – which is managed by the council’s wholly owned environmental services company Ansa.

And at an awards event held recently, Imogen, Charlotte, Rosie and Eloise from Bexton Primary School, in Knutsford, and Daisie, Jacob, Marianne and Katie from Highfields Academy, in Nantwich, were named Junior Recycling Officers of the Year.

The pupils were selected after they – alongside pupils from three other shortlisted schools – gave presentations on their recycling activities.

Reusable beakers, replacing five-litre plastic bottles with sachets for cleaning in school, refilling whiteboard pens when dry and exchanging milk cartons for glass bottles were some of the great examples of their work.

All the young officers had also delivered recycling-themed assemblies to up to 500 pupils and organised competitions and the collection of batteries, clothes and shoes for recycling.

The presentations were judged by Ansa managing director Kevin Melling, Ansa deputy managing director Jane Thomason and Ansa board members councillors Steven Hogben and Arthur Moran.

The other finalists were Alfie and Sophie from Little Bollington CofE Primary School, Grace, Holly, Tilly and Alesha from Offley Primary Academy, in Sandbach and Florence and Danny from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, in Crewe.

Councillor Brian Roberts, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for highways and waste, said: “The council is committed to protecting and improving the environment and our junior recycling officers are doing a fantastic job in helping us to achieve this.

“Engaging with young people at an early stage on the importance of recycling and the benefits it brings is increasingly important. By educating them, they can pass on this knowledge to their peers, family and wider community.”

The awards event was held at Reaseheath Hall, in Nantwich, and all finalists received medals and prizes. The winning schools also received £150 to spend on an environmental project of their choice and a shield to hold for the year.

Ansa board member Councillor Steven Hogben said: “The standard of entries for the awards is always high and this year was no exception – I’d like to congratulate all those who were shortlisted.

“It was very clear that these young people really understand that their work is important in efforts to protect the environment. This is very encouraging as the council has recently called for local action to help tackle ‘the emergency of climate change’.”

The junior recycling scheme, which is free to join and open to all Cheshire East primary schools, has been running for almost 20 years. Participating schools receive free talks on recycling and reducing waste and officers are provided with the resources to learn and educate their peers.

For more information about the scheme, please contact waste education officer Lucinda Hodges on 01270 686684 or email: Lucinda.hodges@ansa.co.uk

Queens Park July 2019

St Andrews Summer Fair’

St Andrews Summer Fair’ takes place this Saturday 20th July 2019 (11am-2pm) at St Andrew's Church, Bedford Street, Crewe. There will be face painting, village stocks, cake stalls, BBQ food, a raffle, various games and refreshments, plus live entertainment from ‘Pick & Mix’ and a demonstration by ‘Dance to Health’. Free admission.

Wistaston musician leads the way in Normandy D-Day Commemorations

Reporter J white
Many people will have watched the D-Day Commemorations from Normandy, France on television and online. However, not many realised that the Parade in Arromanches, which was screened across the world, was led by a Drum Major from Wistaston! Drum Sergeant Rob Richardson, of the Cheshire Drums & Bugles, led the Dutch Band of Liberation into the esplanade at Arromanches and participated in the commemorations across the British and Canadian sectors.

Rob Richardson was asked, along with Drummer Sam Stanley, by Lt Col Simon Dubbelaar of the Band of Liberation to lead the band in Normandy, a massive honour indeed. The Band led the parade into Arromanches in front of a crowd of over 30,000 from all over the world. The parade included over 200 D-Day veterans who had travelled across on the RMS Boudicea, including Nantwich’s very own D-Day veteran, Denis Allcock.
Rob Richardson, who has played for some of the top bands in the country as an accomplished percussionist, is currently the Drum Sergeant at Cheshire Drums and Bugles, who led Crewe’s remembrance parade (and will do again this year) and is also a member of the Royal Marines Association Corps of Drums.
Robert Richardson said, “To lead the Band of Liberation across Pegasus Bridge at the exact time the gliders landed 75 years ago was actually an emotionally experience which didn’t hit me until I was half way across. To be asked to be Drum Major by the BoL was quite a scary thing, I mean I’m used to using two sticks not one big one!, and Arromanches, well that was just special, I can’t thank Lt Col Dubbelaar enough, even if I did have to give the orders in Dutch!”
The band stayed less than 100 yards away from the famous Pegasus Bridge and have close links with Nantwich as their vocalist, Emma Brown has sung at 2 concerts in St Mary’s Church. The Band took part in parades and performances at Pegasus Bridge, Arromanches, Ver sur Mer, Luc sur Mer and to cap the tour off a sell out concert in front of thousands at le Chateau de Bennouville. A proud honour for a proud man of Crewe & Nantwich to have bestowed upon him.
Catch Rob Richardson with the Cheshire Drums & Bugles at St Mary’s Church, Nantwich on Saturday 31st August (7:30pm).

Cheshire East Council set to strengthen its planning framework

Councillors are to consider the next phase of Cheshire East’s development plan.

The latest version of the second stage of Cheshire East Council’s Local Plan – the site allocations and development policies document (SADPD) – will be considered by members of the authority’s strategic planning board on 24 July.

The document, once finalised, will provide the approved framework for housing, employment, and other key infrastructure sites up to 2030.

Following directly on from the Local Plan Strategy adopted in 2017, the SADPD provides detailed policies to guide new development, including housing – and also allocate a limited amount of new development, mainly within the smaller towns and larger villages.

The majority of development needs have already been provided for through the Local Plan Strategy.

The sites in the SADPD will be non-strategic – generally sites of fewer than 60 homes or two hectares (five acres) in size. Some will be focused in key employment areas in principal towns or in smaller key centres.

When adopted, the SADPD will replace the old policies of the three former borough local plans, covering Macclesfield, Congleton and Crewe and Nantwich, dating back to 2004, and address current planning issues – such as climate change mitigation, housing for older people and improving the quality and variety of new homes.

Councillor Toni Fox, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for planning, said: “Having reviewed the options, we recognise the need to have a robust and up-to-date planning framework to avoid a repeat of the unplanned and speculative developments that arose in this borough in recent years. To reflect the changed government planning guidance, we are putting in place a raft of fresh planning policies that will better equip us to shape and manage sustainable development of the borough.

“This plan takes account of consultation responses to the draft document published last September and I’m pleased to say that extra effort has been made, since then, to engage with town and parish councils about the various proposals.

“As well as updating our planning policies, the SADPD identifies new development areas to meet the needs of certain settlements and particular sections of our communities. Among these are plans for fresh residential sites for Gypsies and Travellers and a new transit site to provide safe and regulated accommodation for those passing through the borough.

“In some locations, small allocations are proposed in the greenbelt. This is necessary to meet localised needs in those villages and to ensure no further greenbelt changes are made until at least the 2040s.

“Completion of the site allocations plan is an important step towards securing a strong and resilient basis for planning in Cheshire East, including maintaining a five-year supply of housing land. We want to be able to review our Local Plan in future from a position of strength – without risking a planning free-for all.”

In 2018/19 a record 3,062 new homes were completed in Cheshire East. As well as providing accommodation for families and individuals this total reduces past housing backlogs and helps the Cheshire East Council demonstrate a five-year supply of housing.

Cllr Fox added: “Despite such healthy home building, our five-year supply continues to be challenged by certain sections of the development industry, bent on promoting sites outside of the Local Plan.

“The current Local Plan target of 1,800 homes per year is reflective of past economic ambitions and is almost 50 per cent higher than the government’s own calculation of housing need for the borough using their new methodology.

“We want to move promptly to a position whereby our five-year supply targets are closer aligned with the national methodology – and so we will be looking to assess which parts of Local Plan Strategy need to be reviewed and updated.

“To do this, we need to move on with the rest of the Local Plan and so publish the SADPD for formal consultation. This will allow the plan to progress to external examination, where all parties can seek independent scrutiny.”

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Councillor Sam Corcoran, Leader of Cheshire East Council said: “I am thrilled that UNESCO has designated Jodrell Bank as a World Heritage Site.  The Observatory, with its iconic Lovell Telescope, has for many years been a defining feature of the Cheshire East landscape and the site continues to attract scientists, students and many visitors to our borough to learn more about science and the cosmos.

“Jodrell Bank, with its discovery centre, gardens and arboretum, is a unique part of Cheshire East’s strong tourism offer, part of a visitor economy already worth £921m. This recognition will put Cheshire East on the global tourism map.

“Jodrell has a unique heritage, but it is also ideally positioned as part of Cheshire East’s strong science economy. In 2015, the Council invested £1m as part of a support package to keep Jodrell Bank at the forefront of global scientific research by retaining the headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Observatory.

“We look forward to the new discoveries that Jodrell Bank and the SKA will bring and we will work to maximise the opportunities that this international recognition brings for Cheshire East, our science, technology and visitor economies as well as education and learning in the borough”.

Cheshire News & Appeals

Cheshire Neighbourhood Watch Association
Week ending 7 th July 2019
Cheshire News & Appeals
Latest Cheshire News
National recognition for Cheshire’s Family Liaison Officers
One of Cheshire’s longest-standing roads policing Family Liaison Officers (FLOs) has been recognised for
his hard work and dedication with a national award.
Two Cheshire officers were in the running for the Excellent Longstanding Service Award at the 2019 Brake
FLO Awards and PC Tony Hayhust was announced as the winner at the ceremony, which was held at the
Houses of Parliament on Wednesday, 3 July. Among the 10 other nominees was PC Nick Anderton, who
scooped the ‘highly commended’ award for the category.
Tony has formally served as an FLO for more than 11 years and has provided support to more than 100
families. He was awarded the accolade for his ability to overcome challenging situations. In particular, his
creative and innovative work in a case where the victim was a foreign national, and the bereaved family lived
overseas. A particular highlight for the judges was Tony’s exceptional commitment to family liaison, which
led in once case to him personally transporting donated organs to Cambridgeshire for the NHS. One of his
most noteworthy achievements followed a fatal collision in 2010 where Matthew, a 21 year old man sadly
lost his life. Tony supported the family through a very difficult time and recognised an opportunity to make a
positive outcome from a tragic situation. As he had built up an excellent relationship with the family, he
approached them to discuss the idea of mounting Matthew’s severely damaged vehicle on a trailer to use as
an impactive road safety message in the community. Matthew’s family agreed without hesitation and the
‘think car’ was created. The ‘think car’ has the ability to silence crowds and is without a doubt the single
most effective road safety tool available to the force.
Nick was highly commended by judges for his instrumental role in pioneering and professionalising the
service that Cheshire Constabulary provides to the families of those who have lost a loved one on Cheshire’s
roads. He has spent a huge amount of his own personal time developing and presenting case studies that he
has personally dealt with to student family liaison officers as part of their initial qualification course - as well
as making grieving families feel as though they are the centre of his world and providing the highest quality
of service to them at the saddest of times.
PC Tony Hayhurst said: “I have worked on more than 100 cases as a family liaison officer and have supported
many families through very traumatic, life changing events. Those families have not only suffered terrible
loss but have each found themselves at the centre of a police investigation and some, a court case. I am
immensely respectful of the work that all our family liaison officers undertake in Cheshire Police, they form a
resilient and professional team who really do make a difference to those families when they need us most. I
am very proud to have won this award but I would far rather bring an award to Cheshire for zero road
deaths and serious injuries on our roads - something we really do want to achieve”.
PC Nick Anderton said: “As an FLO I have met some very courageous and amazing people through the most
tragic of circumstance. It has been an honour to help and guide them through both the criminal and / or
coronial process. I thank the families for their understanding of what we have do in the initial stages of an
investigation when realistically they probably want to just curl up into a ball and hide, hoping their
nightmare will go away. While I am extremely proud to receive this award I only wish that the families had
their loved ones with them instead."
Superintendent Jo Marshall Bell, who heads up Cheshire’s Roads and Crime Unit said: “I am immensely
proud of both Tony and Nick for the much deserved national recognition they have received for the
commitment they give to the role of FLO. This category had applications from all over the UK and the fact
that Cheshire had two winners just shows the fantastic work that goes on each day in this county. Tony and
Nick have gone above and beyond for the families they have supported, at what is a truly heartbreaking and
difficult time. They have both shown undeniable dedication and are an absolute credit to the Constabulary.”
Widnes woman charged with class A drugs and shoplifting offences
A woman from Widnes has been charged with drugs and shoplifting offences. Emma Philbin was arrested
shortly after 11.30am yesterday, Thursday 4 July, after officers seized a quantity of class A drugs from an
address in Lower House Lane. The 35-year-old has since been charged with two counts of possessing a
controlled drug of class A (heroin and crack cocaine). She has also been charged with two counts of
shoplifting from a shop in connection with incidents at the Wilko store in Widnes Shopping Park on Monday
3 June and Monday 24 June. Philbin, of Lower House Lane, has been remanded in custody and is set to
appear at Warrington Magistrates’ Court today, Friday 5 July.
Police crack down on anti-social behaviour in Warrington Town Centre
An operation to tackle anti-social behaviour in Warrington Town Centre has been hailed a success. During
the month of June, officers from Warrington Beat Management Team, supported by response team
colleagues, targeted those causing anti-social behaviour in the town centre during the day or evening.
Inspector Neil Drum, from Warrington LPU said: “The operation is part of ongoing problem solving work
focusing on those regularly engaged in street drinking and use of Non-Psychoactive Substances, which tends
to lead to problems with anti-social behaviour. Our month-long crackdown is just the start and has been
successful in deterring anti-social behaviour. I hope it reassures the community that we have listened and
we are taking this seriously. We want everyone to enjoy our town centre and everything it has to offer, but
we understand anti-social behavior from a small number of people can have a detrimental effect and we are
determined to address this.”
As a result of the policing operation a total of 18 arrests were made for various offences from robbery and
theft to drunk and disorderly offences, and 37 ‘advisory’ letters were issued to people street drinking
contrary to the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). Five fixed penalty notices were issued for PSPO
breaches and 15 dispersal notices were issued.
Inspecter Drum added: “This isn’t the end of our efforts, we are committed to tacking the issue and will
continue to work with our partners to find solutions to deter repeat offenders.”
Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour in Warrington Town Centre should contact police on 101 or via
https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries/ .
Man jailed for 12 years for arson attack on block of flats
A Macclesfield man has been jailed for 12 years after an arson attack on a block of flats
in Macclesfield.
Jack Robinson, 25, currently of London Road, Sandbach, but previously from
Macclesfield, pleaded guilty at Chester Crown Court to committing arson being
reckless as to whether life was endangered, criminal damage and one count of
threatening to damage or destroy property. His girlfriend Kayleigh Woods, 26, of
Roslyn Road, Stockport, pleaded guilty to one count of assisting an offender.
On Monday 11 February, at about 10.30pm, Robinson was seen to have an argument with Woods in the Silk
Trader Pub, on Brook Street, Macclesfield. After this both left the pub together, with Woods driving. At
3.45am the following day, February 12, Robinson was seen on CCTV at a Tytherington petrol station buying a
jerry can and fuel. Woods was driving and Robinson used her card to pay for the petrol. Robinson was then
seen on CCTV at 3.52am pouring petrol all over the doorway of the 15-storey Pennine Court Flats, on
Carisbrook Avenue, Macclesfield, and setting fire to it.
Luckily, despite pouring an entire jerry can of petrol on the front door, the fire did not take hold and went
out by itself. Robinson tried to set fire to the flats after threatening an ex-girlfriend of his. After he had ran
away from the scene he sent her a text message saying “you got was was cumming [sic]”. In interview
Woods said that she helped Robinson out of “fear and love for him”. Robinson was jailed for 12 years and
Woods was handed a two year prison term suspended for 18 months and ordered to carry out 200 hours of
unpaid work.
Detective Constable Alison Shields said: “I am very pleased that this case has come to a conclusion and the
sentence Robinson has received shows the gravity of his crimes. Macclesfield’s police teams worked on this
case for days to make sure we apprehended the offender and were able to charge and remand him to
protect the public. Arson is a very serious crime and in this case stemmed from Robinson’s bullying
behaviour and attitude towards women. This was a domestic related incident. Robinson intended to cause
harm to his ex-partner. Robinson and Woods gave no regards to the residents of the flats and their
behaviour put hundreds of residents at risk. Thankfully the fire door on the building did its job and burnt out
before taking hold. Had the fire spread then the consequences to all the residents could have potentially
been catastrophic.”
Man charged with motoring offences following collision in Crewe
A man from Crewe has been charged with four motoring offences following a collision in the town.
Andrew Beard, of Goulding Drive, was arrested at 3.15pm yesterday, Wednesday 3 July, after a car had
collided with a telegraph pole on Stoneley Road. A 27-year-old woman, who was a passenger in the car,
suffered a minor injury as a result of the collision. She was taken to hospital via an ambulance. Beard, 23, has
since been charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving without a licence and driving
without insurance. He has been released on unconditional bail and is set to appear at Crewe Magistrates’
Court on Wednesday 18 July.
Get switched on to your child's online world
Cheshire Constabulary is urging parents to get switched on to their children’s online world.
For young people the internet can be a wonderful and exciting place, where they can explore, learn new
things, communicate and be entertained. But with their online world growing, the Constabulary wants to
make sure parents are aware of the day-to-day risks this access can bring.
Working together with Get Safe Online, the Constabulary is issuing vital safety advice on how to be a
switched on parent.
 Have regular conversations with your child about the good and not-so-good things about the internet.
 Set boundaries and rules from a young age.
 Chat with friends, family and other parents about how they help their children to progress and keep safe
online.
 Use parental control software and apps on computers, mobile devices and games consoles, privacy
features on social networking sites, and the safety options on search engines.
 Tell your child that not everybody they meet online is necessarily who they appear to be.
 Explain and encourage safe searching.
 Check lower age limits of social networking, picture sharing, gaming and other sites and apps.
 Keep yourself up to date with new game and social media trends, especially those with negative
publicity because they may be violent, encourage gambling or leave the way open for grooming.
 Use a family email address when signing up for apps so that you can keep a watchful eye.
 Be aware of the rise in children’s live streaming of themselves and the potential dangers.
 Talk to your children about oversharing.
 However well you know your child, ask yourself if they could be carrying out some kind of negative
online activity that harms others, even if they do not realise this.
Detective Sergeant Chris Maddocks, of Cheshire Constabulary’s cybercrime team, said: “Children learn
through exploration and natural curiosity, and it is part of our job as parents and carers to encourage that,
but take the necessary steps to ensure their safety. Until their understanding catches up with their curiosity,
our children need to be protected from everyday dangers like crossing the road, safety around the home and
something that shouldn’t be underestimated, being online. Chances are your child is already an ‘online
veteran’ who knows their way around the internet, apps, games, downloading and social networking with
ease, but they almost certainly don’t have the life-experience and wisdom to handle all of the situations they
encounter, which is why it is so important that parents and carers get switched on to their children’s online
world.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, David Keane, said: “Children are constantly accessing the
internet on mobile devices, which opens them up to a world of exploration, but it can also expose them to
dangers. Parents and carers have an important role to play in ensuring their children are aware of these
dangers. One of the main issues young people encounter online is cyber-bullying. Gone are the days when
they could go home from school to a safe place away from bullies, internet technology now means bullies
can operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week bringing a constant source of distress and worry for victims.
Through an anti-bullying commission, I’m aiming to develop a set of recommendations for the education and
criminal justice sectors to provide more protection of victims of bullying.”
Parents can join Cheshire Constabulary at the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park between 17 - 21 July to learn
how to be a switched on parent. Designed by University Centre Reaseheath Level 5 Landscape Architecture
Students, the garden aims to raise awareness of the five simple steps that can be taken to help Cheshire
residents stay safe online. Cheshire Constabulary launched its 5Cs campaign to help people stay safe online
earlier this year. To find out more visit: https://cheshire.police.uk/5cs . For more information about online
safety for children visit: https://www.getsafeonline.org/safekidsonline/
Applications open for annual Nantwich youth fishing competition
Applications have now opened for the tenth annual Police Youth
Fishing Competition in Nantwich.
On Wednesday 28 August, 2019, officers from Nantwich Beat
Management team will be staging the event at the Bay Moultons
Border fisheries, on Waybutt Lane, Crewe, CW2 5QA. This will be the
10th edition of an event that has grown and grown over the years
and is now a permanent fixture in both the local Police and
community calendar. Last year there were 40+ entrants and officers
hope that in the competition's tenth year they can beat that figure. The event is open to 10-16 year olds
from across the area and is completely free of charge including refreshments, lunch, bait and prizes in
various categories as well as a free raffle to ensure every entrant goes home with a gift. The highlight of the
day will be the presentation of the ‘Phillip Martin Memorial Trophy’ to the overall match winner. The day
has been sponsored by the local Sainsbury's store.
Entrants must download the application form and return it to either Nantwich Police station
or Crewe.LPU@cheshire.pnn.police.uk by July 31st 2019. Places will be allocated on a first come first served
basis.
County lines arrests and drugs seized during Widnes week of action
A week-long focus to target serious and organised crime in Widnes has resulted in a number of arrests and
class A drugs being seized.
Between Monday 24 June and Friday 28 June officers used information provided by the community to
execute warrants, make five arrests and recover heroin, crack cocaine and cannabis. Two men were stopped
on the Iron Bridge in Grizedale and found to be in possession of approximately 40 wraps of heroin and crack
cocaine. They were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs and have been released
under investigation. A warrant executed on Mottershead Road resulted in cannabis, scales and graft phones
being recovered. Around 51 bags of heroin and crack cocaine were discovered in a jewellery box in the
garden of an address on Sinclair Avenue.
One vulnerable man was also identified and safeguarded by officers after he was found to have been a
victim of exploitation by organised crime groups (OCG). A county line is operated by an organised crime
group who use a mobile phone, known as a ‘line’ or a ‘graft’ to extend their criminal activity into new
locations – usually from a city into rural areas. Organised crime groups can target, coerce and exploit
children, vulnerable adults and disabled people to deliver and deal drugs on their behalf.
Sergeant Rob Anderson, of Widnes Local Policing Unit, said: “We know county lines exists in Widnes and we
are committed in doing all we can to disrupt it to make your community safer. Although this week of action
is similar to what we do on a daily basis, going that extra mile enables us to further engage with local
residents and reassure them that we do act on information provided to us. Keeping your community safe
and protecting vulnerable adults and children is our priority. I want to encourage the public to keep coming
forward with information and understanding how to spot the signs of county lines.”
Information on county lines can be found here
Anyone who believes county lines activity is happening in their area can call Cheshire Police on 101,
Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or submit information by
email https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries
Crewe couple jailed for dealing class A drugs
A couple have both been jailed for three years after they admitted
dealing class A drugs in Crewe.
Stephen Brian Jones, 36, and Donna Peacock, 31, of Fanshawe Walk,
Crewe, both pleaded guilty at Chester Crown Court to two counts of
possession with intent to supply class A drugs (cocaine and heroin)
and one count of possessing criminal property.
At 10.35am on Wednesday 29 May, 2019, officers stopped a blue Jaguar x-type car on Macron Way, Crewe,
because it had no insurance or valid MOT. After stopping the car an officer noticed some drugs
paraphernalia in the driver’s footwell and then searched the car. The officer found a tobacco tin with 28
wraps – 13 of heroin and 15 of crack cocaine. Officers also found a phone which was used to coordinate drug
sales. Both Jones and Peacock were arrested and a search of their home address was carried out with
officers finding £300 in cash and a further quantity of drugs. In custody a further £133 was recovered from
Peacock. In interview Peacock claimed the drugs were for personal use. Jones made no comment.
Detective Constable Peter Taylor said: “Drugs have a huge impact on our communities so any time we seize
drugs and take dealers off our streets it is a positive. Hopefully, the time in prison will give Jones and
Peacock time to change their ways.”
To understand how to spot the signs of serious and organised crime
visit https://www.cheshire.police.uk/about-us/serious-and-organised-crime/
Latest Cheshire Appeals
Images of paintings stolen from Chester art gallery released
Police have released images of stolen artwork and are urging
anyone with information regarding the paintings to come
forward.
Painted on glass, the four limited addition pieces of artwork
were stolen from the Watergate Street Gallery in Chester
between Sunday 16 June and Tuesday 18 June. Enquiries in
relation the thefts are ongoing and as part of their
investigation officers are appealing for anyone who believes
that they have seen, or been offered the chance to buy, any of
the paintings since they were stolen to get in touch.
Police Constable Jeff Cottrell said: “We are determined to
establish who stole the paintings, which are painted on pieces
of glass between 30cm and 40cm wide, and have them returned to the art gallery in Watergate Street in
Chester. If you think that you have seen any of the paintings since Sunday 16 June please contact the team
here at Chester Local Policing Unit. Perhaps you or someone you know have been offered the chance to buy
them. We also want to speak to anyone who believes that they may have information regarding the thefts or
the person, or persons, who stole the paintings.”
Anyone with information about the thefts or the whereabouts of the stolen paintings should call Cheshire
Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 431678, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-
enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police appeal for witnesses following Sandbach Park assault
Police are appealing for witnesses after a 15-year-old boy was assaulted in Sandbach Park.
At around 11.30pm on 29 June the teenager was walking through Sandbach Park with two friends when a
group of boys approached them and attacked him. When he got home he discovered a puncture wound
which may have been caused with a knife. The three suspects were aged approximately 17-year-old. Two of
the boys were white and one of the boys was black. All were wearing casual clothing.
Inspector Penny Jones said: “Incidents such as this are thankfully very rare in Sandbach and we want to make
sure it stays that way. While we are working to trace the suspects we are stepping up patrols in Sandbach
Park and Elworth Park. We are aware that there have been issues with anti-social behaviour in the parks and
we do not want to see this as an escalation of the issue. We are stepping up patrols in both parks and are
also asking residents to report any anti-social behaviour to us so that we can tackle this head on. We have
been back into local schools this week working with pupils in an attempt to prevent them being attracted in
to carry knives or any weapons, highlighting the serious and potentially fatal consequences of doing so.
Anyone found unlawfully in possession of knives or other weapons in a public place can expect to face the
consequence before a magistrate’s court.”
Anyone with information should contact Sandbach Police on 101 or via
https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries/ quoting IML 442266. Alternatively information
can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Appeal after two Audi cars stolen in Neston burglary
Detectives are appealing for information and footage from members
of the public after two Audi cars were stolen following an overnight
burglary in Neston.
The keys to the grey Audi Q2 and the blue Audi RS7 are believed to
have been stolen from a house in The Spinney at around 1.20am
yesterday, Tuesday 2 July. The distinctive cars, which were parked on
the driveway, were then driven away from the scene. One of the
vehicles, the RS7, was involved in a collision on Woodchurch Road in
Birkenhead soon after it had been stolen. The back of the car is
believed to have been damaged as a result of the incident, which
occurred near to The Swan pub at around 3am. The car fled the scene
following the collision.
Enquiries in relation to the burglary, the vehicle thefts and the collision are ongoing and detectives are
urging anyone with any information or footage that may aid the investigation to get in touch. They have
released images of the cars so that members of the public know what they look like.
Detective Constable Tom Davies said: “The offenders got into a house in The Spinney as the occupants were
asleep and then stole the two distinctive Audi cars that were parked outside. We know that at least one of
the cars was driven to the Birkenhead area in Wirral, as it was involved in a collision there. We are
determined to establish who stole the cars, bring them to justice and have the vehicles returned to their
rightful owners. Enquiries are ongoing and as part of our investigation we are appealing for anyone who was
in The Spinney area on the night that the cars were stolen and witnessed anything suspicious to come
forward. Perhaps you saw the offenders, or the cars being driven away. We also want to speak to anyone
who believes that they may have CCTV or dashcam footage of the offenders or of the cars fleeing the scene.
The same goes for anyone who believes that they may know who the offenders are or have information
regarding the whereabouts of the stolen cars. One of the vehicles, the blue Audi RS7, is believed to have
been damaged as a result of the collision in Birkenhead. If you see such a car with damage to the rear please
get in touch. We have released images of the cars that were stolen. If you think that you see either car we
want to hear from you. We also want to hear from anyone who witnessed, or has dashcam footage of, the
collision in Birkenhead.”
Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary
on 101, quoting IML 444221, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or
contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dashcam footage can be submitted online at
www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .
Appeal following suspected arson attack at
Warrington industrial estate
Detectives investigating a suspected arson attack at an
industrial site in Warrington are appealing for information
and footage from members of the public.
Shortly before 11pm on Saturday 29 June firefighters were
called to a large fire involving wooden pallets at Forward
Works on Bridge Lane in Woolston.
Firefighters worked through the night tackling the blaze, with a total of 10 fire engines attending the scene.
The fire is believed to have been started deliberately, as is another fire that was started at the industrial site
that night. Fortunately the other fire, at WH Capper, went out by itself before any damage was caused to the
building. Enquiries in relation to the incidents are ongoing and detectives are urging anyone with
information, or CCTV or dashcam footage, that may help their investigation to get in touch.
Detective Constable Tom Ashton, of Warrington CID, said: “Thankfully no-one was hurt as a result of the
fires. The consequences of the fires could have been far worse. However, approximately £100,000 worth of
damage has been caused as a result of the pallets fire at Forward Works. Our investigation into the fires is
still in its early stages but it appears that offenders started the fire at Forward Works from a footpath
clearing off Cliftonville Road before they entered the industrial estate and started a further fire within the
WH Capper building. The fires put lives and people’s livelihoods at risk and I would like to reassure business
owners and residents that we are determined to establish who was responsible for the fires and make them
face the consequences of their actions. Enquiries into the fires are ongoing and as part of our investigation
we want to hear from anyone with any information or footage that may be relevant. Perhaps you were in
the area and witnessed something that may aid our investigation, or may be you have information regarding
who started the fires. We also want to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage of anyone in the
area who may have been involved in the fires being started.”
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Deliberate Fire Reduction Manager Andy Gray added: “The fire at Forward
Works involved a large amount of pallets, which were well alight on the arrival of firefighters. The fire took
12 hours to extinguish and put the safety of our firefighters at risk as they fought to bring it under control.
Fires that are believed to have been started deliberately such as this take up valuable resources, costing
taxpayers thousands of pounds, so if anyone knows anything about it then please report what you know.”
Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the investigation into the fires should call Cheshire
Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 442331, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-
enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dashcam footage can be submitted
online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage .
Appeal following collision in Congleton
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward following a road traffic collision in Congleton.
At 3pm on Saturday 22 June a collision occurred on the A54 on Buxton Road close to Tall Ash Avenue
involving a van and a cyclist. The cyclist, aged 57, went to hospital with serious facial injuries.
PC Jenny Knapman said: “Enquiries in relation to the collision are ongoing and as part of my investigation I
want to speak to anyone who may have been in the area and witnessed what happened. I am also appealing
for anyone who may have any dashcam footage to get in touch.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 435301 or send
information through our website on https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries/ . Dashcam
footage can be submitted here https://www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-
safety/submit-dashcam-footage/ .
To find out further information about the Cheshire Neighbourhood Watch Association, to log into your account or for Cheshire
Neighbourhood Watch Literature please visit our website: http://cheshir

Cheshire East set to consider next phase of the Crewe area action plan

Cheshire East Council is to discuss about what HS2 could mean for Crewe and how it could improve the environment and reduce traffic congestion with its anticipated arrival.

The latest version of the Crewe area action plan, which contains a range of proposed ideas, will be considered by the Council at a meeting of its strategic planning board on Thursday (11 July 2019).

The planning document, which looks over a 20 year timescale until 2040, will help the council manage the development around Crewe station. As part of this, there is a proposed package of measures to improve access to the station, which includes suggestions for better transport links, access to the town centre and road improvements.

The meeting will also discuss the proposals for public consultations on the ideas, which include:

● Outline of the areas in Crewe that are covered by the plan;

● Development of policy documents;

● Sustainable transport;

● Five development opportunity areas;

● New infrastructure proposals; and

● Key heritage sites.

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “HS2 can be a real benefit for Crewe and, if handled correctly, the infrastructure investment will stimulate a radical and positive change in the town.

“Crewe is already one of the best connected places in Britain but currently, few people truly take advantage of the rail links it offers. HS2 will enhance these further and will make Cheshire East an even better location for business.

“The council has to plan carefully to anticipate the change that HS2 could bring and ensure new development is shaped for the benefit of our communities. I am sure you will agree that we need to improve transport connections to improve the environment and help reduce the traffic congestion experienced in Crewe daily.

“This plan, with its transport and infrastructure proposals, seeks to provide better public transport, pedestrian and cycle routes in the area. All the proposals will be subject to public consultation.”

All of the ideas contained in the plan are only proposals at this stage. If agreed at the strategic planning meeting, a public consultation will follow to allow people to comment on the plan and the proposals contained within it.

The final version of the plan is expected to be published in autumn 2019.

Cheshire East to consult on growing the economy to £15bn

Cheshire East Council is to consult on its draft economic strategy, which outlines plans to grow the local economy to deliver £15bn per year and improve the quality of the local area.

The strategy, which was considered by cabinet on Tuesday 9 July, uses a strong evidence base and has been developed in partnership with representatives from the private sector.

Cheshire East is one of the most successful economies in the UK. However, growth in productivity, or output per hour worked, in Britain generally is lagging behind most leading Western economies and has not yet recovered to its 2007 level – and we have started to see that in Cheshire East.

The economic strategy is being developed to show how future growth will be managed responsibly and sustainably to support the council’s ambitions and anticipated arrival of HS2 – but acknowledges that the proposals outlined will require external funding for the full opportunities to be realised.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “This strategy sets out the council’s economic priorities and will help us to have future conversations around funding them.

“We now want to test the strategy through a consultation, so that the local community can tell us what they think.”

The main priorities in the strategy include improving the quality of our town centres, the variety of available housing, connectivity options, skills levels and business development.

The consultation process will take place over the summer.

Firelink Enewsletter - July 2019

Firelink Enewsletter - July 2019

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

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Cheshire Fire Authority welcomes 13 new members

Councillor Bob Rudd has been re-elected as Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority for the fourth year running at the Authority’s Annual General Meeting on June 19. Deputy Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority is Cllr Stef Nelson from Halton Borough Council, who was also re-elected.

At his opening address, Cllr Bob Rudd welcomed 13 new members to the Authority following local elections. He also took the opportunity to thank previous members for their support over the last 12 months.

Find out more - Cheshire Fire Authority welcomes 13 new members

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Barnton family highlight the importance of closing doors at night

A family in Barnton has released pictures of their home, which was damaged in a fire, to illustrate the importance of closing doors at night.

The fire broke out on Sunday 30 June at 6.28pm at the home of Neal and Sarah Salomon on Lydyett Lane, Barnton.

The fire started in an electrical box in the hallway of their home and caused extensive damage. Firefighters, four wearing breathing apparatus, used a hose reel jet, a covering jet and a dry powder extinguisher to put out the fire.

But the damage to their property would have been much worse if they had left the internal doors open. The images show that damage to the room opposite the fuse box was limited because the door was closed. On the other side the fire was intense enough to begin to peel plaster off the walls.

Find out more - Barnton family highlight the importance of closing doors at night

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Warning after tumble dryer recall

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to check the make of their tumble dryer after a full recall was issued by a manufacturer.

Whirlpool, which makes Hotpoint, Creda and Indesit dryers, has issued a recall for up to 500,000 of its products and told people to stop using them immediately.

The affected brands are Hotpoint, Indesit, Creda, Swan and Proline. All the tumble dryers affected were made between April 2004 and September 2015.

The fault is in two different types of tumble dryer and means that, in some cases, excess fluff can come into contact with the heating element.

Find out more - Warning after tumble dryer recall

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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

Message Sent By
Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Fire , Administrator, Cheshire Fire)

Council to give free masterclasses to boost local businesses

Cheshire East Council is to hold another series of free masterclasses to help business people learn how to win public sector contracts.

Small and medium-sized businesses are encouraged to sign-up for one of three free sessions being organised in association with the borough’s chambers of commerce. Previous masterclasses have been highly rated by participants, with 100 per cent recommending them to other businesses.

The next events are on:

● 18 September 2019 – at Harts Ltd, Macclesfield.

In association with North Cheshire Chamber of Commerce;

● 27 November 2019 – at Riverside, Congleton.

In association with East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce; and

● 19 February 2020 – at Wychwood Park, Crewe.

In association with South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce.

Businesses should book places at www.eventbrite.com and search under ‘Tendering in Cheshire East’.

Each masterclass will explain how public sector procurement works, the different frameworks in public sector contracts and how to identify the best opportunities.

Based on three key areas, find, bid and win, businesses will also have the opportunity to quiz the council’s own procurement team on how they evaluate bids and award tenders.

Olivia Ryder, managing director of COS Recruitment, an established recruitment agency based in Macclesfield, attended a previous masterclass and found it very beneficial.

She said: “The masterclass covered everything I was looking to find out – an organised step-by-step guide to the practicalities of finding, evaluating and preparing a winning tender. 

“The presentation was dynamic, engaging and delivered in a down-to-earth, jargon-free manner. It had exactly the right balance of providing the useful information needed, as well as answering the specific issues of the audience.”

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “Whether you are new to tendering or looking to improve, these masterclasses offer an invaluable opportunity to learn new skills, identify your strengths and unique selling points and help you win more tenders to secure growth.”

The public sector is a massive market opportunity. By 2020, the UK government hopes to award 33 per cent of its procurement budget to smaller businesses, out of a total UK public sector spend of around £200bn a year. Cheshire East Council alone spends around £260m annually on contracts, supplies and services with third parties.

World Worm Charming Championship wiggles its way to four decades of success

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston, Cheshire

The ‘40th World Worm Charming Championship’ took place on the afternoon of Saturday 29th June 2019 within the grounds of Willaston Primary Academy http://www.willastonprimaryacademy.co.uk/ , Derwent Close, Willaston, near Nantwich, Cheshire.
The World Worm Charming Championship was founded as a community project to raise funds for the school by Gordon Farr (former Headteacher of Willaston Primary School), John Bailey (former Deputy headteacher of Willaston Primary School), and Mike Forster (former Willaston Village Police officer).
The Championship worming commenced at 2pm following an inspection of the plots by the International Federation of Charming Worms and Allied Pastimes (IFCWAP).
The countdown to the beginning of worming was performed by special guest Danny Higginbotham who is a sports journalist and former professional footballer.
Participants in each of the 144 plots had 30 minutes to charm and collect as many worms as possible from their 3x3 metre plot. There were 'traditional' plots for two adults and two children and 'tag-team' plots for teams who wished to change their pairings throughout the charming period. This year hard ground made for tough conditions.
Techniques to agitate the soil included the traditional method of vibrating a garden fork, along with alternative methods such as skipping on the spot, playing a clarinet, whacking a golf club and bouncing a football. Chris White from Wistaston dressed alternately as a blackbird and an earthworm. He also sang and performed on his ukulele to entice worms with ‘There's A Worm At The Bottom Of The Garden’, ‘The Worm’, ‘Green, Green Grass of Home’, and ‘Good Vibrations’.
Whilst awaiting the results of the worm count, there were events in the playground and arena including performances from Co-operative wind bands (Crewe) and Apex Cheer cheerleading team, and singing from the Willaston Primary Academy Choir.
The arena and adjacent areas were surrounded by charity stalls, zorbing, an inflatable slide, bouncy castle and food and drink outlets.
Charities represented included Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Little Bea’s bell tent hire, The Little White Tuk Tuks wedding transport service, South West Cheshire eurojam 2020 Poland, My Candy Cloud, hope house, Willaston Pre-School, Central Cheshire Buddy Scheme, and Railtrack Rail Safe. There was also a grand draw raffle and a scavenger hunt.
Mike Forster, Event Co-organiser and Chief Wormer of Great Britain and the World, gave his sincere thanks to Friends of Willaston School Association – PTA, Willaston Primary Academy staff, other volunteers and visitors for their continued support of the event. Mike hinted that this year may be his last event as Event Co-organiser and Chief Wormer after 40 years, but said if it was, he would still be involved with helping to organise the event into the future.
The Chief Wormer's trophy was given to International Federation of Charming Worms and Allied Pastimes (IFCWAP) co-founder & former Willaston Primary School headteacher Gordon Farr for services to worm charming since 1980.
The Championship trophy for Most Worms was given to IFCWAP co-founder & former Willaston Village Police officer Mike Forster for services to worm charming since 1980. Therefore, a new Championship trophy for Most Worms had been produced and was awarded to Sam & Ollie Dobson in plot 1 with 64 worms.
Heaviest Worm trophy was won by Daniel Summers and his five nephews (Tyler, Jake, Charlie, William, Elliot) from Crewe with a worm that weighed a new official world record of 8 grams.
The championship also included representatives from USA, Philippines, Spain, along with Isle of Man Worm Charming Champions Jackie and Adrian Darbyshire.
The main sponsor was Bristol Street Motors.
The event took place in dry and sunny weather and was enjoyed by several hundred people.

Sydney Road Bridge reopening

Cheshire East Council and its contractors are working hard to reopen Sydney Road Bridge, in Crewe, to traffic on Sunday – but recent wet weather may mean the reopening is delayed by a few days.

Due to the recent heavy and prolonged downpours, some of the work to surface the bridge was delayed, as it required the conditions to be dry for a sustained period of time.

As a result, the completion of other works was also affected. This may delay the final opening to all traffic slightly beyond 30 June.

However, the new bridge is already open to pedestrians and cyclists and will remain so during the rest of the works. Some minor works will be completed after the road has re-opened to vehicles, which will be done outside of peak periods.

The council would like to reiterate its thanks to residents and motorists for their patience and understanding while the works are being carried out. The opening of this key project forms part of a package of works in the north of Crewe, which also includes the Crewe Green Roundabout upgrade.

Sydney Road Bridge has been replaced with a new, wider structure capable of taking two-way traffic. It will include a shared cycleway and footway over the bridge, a signal-controlled pedestrian crossing and an improved cycle path along Sydney Road.

Once open it will remove a major traffic ‘pinch point’ in the town, on a route serving Leighton Hospital and the Bentley factory.

Council to bring key economic development services back in-house

Cheshire East Council has announced it will redesign the council’s strategic services for growth, regeneration and economic development.

This includes the council providing services previously commissioned through Engine of the North and the Skills and Growth Company directly, as well as reviewing some of the services currently provided by the council.

This would mean the transfer of staff and responsibilities of these two companies back to the council.

The council has been undertaking a review of each of its ASDVs (alternative service delivery vehicles) and the first phase of this review is now ready to be implemented.

Cheshire East Council’s cabinet and shareholder committee endorsed the proposals, following on from the review, to bring most of the services currently delivered by these two companies back in-house as well as redesigning its in-house services.

The decision was taken on 13 March by the portfolio holder and the matter was reviewed by the council’s overview and scrutiny committee on 6 June.

Frank Jordan, Cheshire East Council’s executive director of place, said: “Since establishing these two companies we have learned a great deal about working and partnering in the commercial sector but, like any large organisation, we do need to regularly and rigorously assess and review the competitiveness of the services we commission.

“Faced with increasing financial pressure, the realignment of funding will help the council provide a more efficient and effective way of driving our economic development programme forwards.

“This new approach will improve our ability to unlock growth and create new regeneration opportunities right across the borough.”

Subject to a formal consultation with staff, the process of transferring services and staff back to the council under the economic development service will take place on 1 August 2019.

Drivers Targeted With Fake Fines

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What you need to know
Action Fraud have received an increase in reports and intelligence where elderly victims are being targeted by individuals purporting to be police officers or traffic wardens. The victims are being approached whilst parked in a car park and are told by the suspect that they have parked illegally or broken a speed limit and a photo has been taken of their car for ‘evidence’.
Victims are advised that they will face a substantial penalty fine unless they pay a smaller upfront fee immediately. Victims, who opt for paying the smaller penalty, will be directed to a parking meter and asked to enter their card and PIN. These parking meters have been tampered with by the suspect in order to retain the card.
Once the victim inserts their card and are asked for their PIN, the victims are shoulder surfed for their PIN by the suspect. Once victims input their PIN, the card is retained by the machine and victims are told by the suspect to seek help from the company who operates the parking meter or their bank.
What you need to do

• If you are suspicious about the authenticity of the fine, do not pay it until you have verified it with your local council.
• Always shield your PIN from view when using an ATM machine, and never share your PIN with anyone.
• If your bank card is retained by an ATM machine, contact your bank immediately to inform them.

Cheshire East Council set to reimburse some parking penalty charges

Cheshire East Council has identified an error in the previous issuing of penalty charge notices on some free car parks – and is urging people to come forward and claim a reimbursement.

This issue, which was brought to the council’s attention during a recent consultation to increase parking charges, by Councillor Rod Fletcher, has seen 675 penalty charge notices issued incorrectly between 26 October 2015 and 13 March 2019.

The error has been made on seven out of 116 car parks and represents less than one per cent of the total penalty charge notices issued across Cheshire East.

All 675 issued were due to a parking offence being committed but due to legal technicalities, the penalty charge notices were not enforceable.

The car parks affected are: Fairview, Fannys Croft and Station Road in Alsager; London Road in Holmes Chapel; and Hawk Street, Chapel Street and Brookhouse Road in Sandbach.

The council has today (3 July 2019), established a reimbursement scheme for those affected.  The scheme, which will be overseen by an independent reviewer, will ensure any claimants have their cases reviewed.

Frank Jordan, executive director of place and acting deputy chief executive, said: “The issue, of penalty charge notices having been incorrectly issued on seven car parks between October 2015 and March 2019, was brought to our attention during the parking charges consultation period.

“We would like to apologise to those who have been incorrectly issued a penalty charge notice during this time period and urge any affected motorists to claim full reimbursement. Also, I would like to thank Councillor Fletcher for drawing this to our attention.”

If you think you are one of the 675 affected, please visit the council website at www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/parkingclaim for more information, or call 0300 123 5500. Notification as to whether you qualify for a reimbursement will be received within 28 days.

Queens Park Crewe June 2019