Further drop-in sessions to be held for communities affected by flooding

Recovery works following last month’s flash floods are continuing across the north of Cheshire East – as further drop-in sessions are to be held for the communities affected.

Heavy and prolonged rainfall at the end of last month caused severe flooding in areas including Poynton, Bollington, Kettleshulme, Handforth, Wilmslow, Adlington and Rainow, with 150mm of rain falling over five days. Between 60-90mm of this fell in just 24 hours.

Cheshire East Council continues to lead the extensive recovery alongside partner agencies, with a thorough investigation into the flooding, major highways repairs and clean-up operations all ongoing – including gully emptying, whole scale reconstruction of parts of the highways network and removal of fallen trees.

To provide information and advice to those affected by the localised flooding and support them to become more flood resilient in the future, a multi-agency drop-in event was held in Poynton earlier this month and further sessions have now been organised.

For residents in the Bollington and Kettleshulme areas, a drop-in event will take place at Bollington Civic Hall on Wednesday 4 September between 3-7pm. A further event will take place at Wilmslow Library between 3-7pm on Thursday 12 September, for those in the Handforth and Wilmslow areas.

Both events are being hosted by the Environment Agency and will be attended by officers from Cheshire East Council and other partner agencies including United Utilities.

A spokesperson for Cheshire East Council said: “The council is committed to keeping our communities safe and supporting people to protect themselves, their properties and businesses, as much as they possibly can, from flooding.

“We encourage anyone with concerns or questions about the recent floods to attend these drop-in events. The feedback we receive will help us to shape a longer-term strategy for the area.”

As lead local flood authority, and under Section 19 of the Flood and Water Management Act, the council has initiated a multi-agency investigation into the flooding incidents. A Section 19 report will be produced and its findings made publicly available.

This will take some time to complete to ensure that the investigation is carried out thoroughly, in accordance with the Act and in partnership with agencies such as the Environment Agency.

It is anticipated that the report will be completed in around 12 months’ time, with its findings and recommendations made public following an internal and external approval process.

During the severe weather period between 27 July and 2 August, the council’s highways team received almost 1,140 requests of service across Cheshire East – 380 of those required an emergency response.

Working on a priority basis, additional resources are assisting with the repairs and clear up operation. All gullies in the north of the borough are being emptied, assessed and any further work required will be programmed.

A number of larger repair and reconstruction schemes have also been identified and due to the complexity of the work, will take some time to complete.

More information about the highways flood recovery works and the road closures still in place can be found at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/highways_and_roads/roadworks/flood-recovery-damaged-roads.aspx

The council thanks residents and motorists for their patience while these works take place.

The flooding also had a large impact on Cheshire East’s Public Rights of Way network and dozens of reports of damage were received.

Issues included sink holes; fallen trees, surface damage and bridges which had been destroyed, swept down stream or undercut by rivers. 

The council’s Public Rights of Way team has been arranging for repairs and the replacement of structures where needed and informing landowners of any trees that need to be removed. This will take some time given the scale and complexity of the work.

While some paths are closed, the council is grateful for the public’s understanding in using alternative routes – which are shown on site notices.

Damage was also caused to some of Cheshire East Council’s country parks and trails. In some areas, footpaths, fencing and riverbanks were washed away, while many areas were covered with debris.

The countryside rangers team has been working hard to make the areas safe, clear debris and reopen them to the public.

Cheshire East Council with Your Housing Group and Avantage

30 August 2019

Cheshire East Council, Your Housing and Avantage continue to closely together to support residents who lost their homes as a result of the fire that destroyed the Beechmere Extra Care Village on the 8 August 2019.

The council’s main focus continues to be to secure long-term homes for residents and ensuring that any care needs are reviewed and are met in their temporary and future accommodation. 

As a result of the fire, 150 residents lost their homes. The council’s social care teams have contacted and undertaken assessments with all the residents to fully understand their needs and preferences.  Everyone has been accommodated and over 30 residents are now in permanent homes.  The council, Your Housing and Avantage are working together to find suitable permanent homes for all residents.

Councillor Laura Jeuda, cabinet member with responsibility for adult social care and health, said: “Our social care and housing teams continue to work tirelessly to find permanent homes for Beechmere’s residents.  Clearly, the fire has caused significant pressure on the availability of care and accommodation in the borough, but we will do everything we can to ensure that people move into safe, permanent homes as soon as possible.

“Many of the residents were evacuated from the site with little more than the clothes they were wearing – some lost everything. 

“I have heard many heart-breaking stories of residents who have lost their beloved pets, memories and treasured items.  To support residents to come to terms with these losses, our social work team and Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust have provided emotional and psychological support for those affected.

“I would like to add my voice to those who have already spoken about the overwhelming outpouring of generosity and community spirit shown by the people and businesses of Crewe (and beyond).  They have made donations of money, time, clothing, furniture, toiletries and many other essentials and little luxuries that will make this very difficult time more bearable. 

“In the hours following the fire, people from all walks of life came to offer all kinds of support. For example, a family had drawn pictures and put them in frames with a note saying ‘We are sorry about what you are going through. Please enjoy this picture until you can fill this frame with your own again.’ A lady brought knitting sets for residents, as she was in a fire many years ago and found that in the following days/weeks, she wanted something to do, that would  take her mind off the situation.

“Our communities team saw very many acts of selfless generosity as they coordinated the mountain of donations and more than 400 volunteers at the Crewe Lifestyle Centre and then at the collection centres at St Peters Church, Crewe and the old Crewe library building.

“As the recovery continues, residents and their relatives have contacted us with a range of concerns including enquiries around prescriptions, direct debits, benefits, insurance, redirection of mail, passports, ID and bus passes, which we are helping to get arranged.  Direct debits for council tax and other housing costs have been stopped.

“Residents and relatives who have any concerns about social care and accommodation, with regards to the fire at Beechmere in Crewe, can call our 24-hour helpline on 0300 123 5025.”

Your Housing Group CEO Brian Cronin, commented: “Our staff have been working tirelessly since the fire started to help our residents. We are putting every resource available into responding to the crisis and supporting residents with a team of resident liaison officers.

“We’re working closely with Cheshire East Council to source and allocate suitable accommodation.  This is a devastating situation involving vulnerable people and we are working round the clock to find permanent accommodation that is appropriate for each individual’s needs. 

“We have had overwhelming support from the residents and the wider community and they remain our number one priority. We are committed to rebuild Beechmere on this site but this will take several years. We have allocated a multi-million fund to support residents as they transition into long term new homes including buying suitable properties where possible, furniture and clothing.”

Ultra 90's

Reporter Jonathan White, Wistaston
Ultra 90's - http://www.ultra90s.com/ - returned by popular demand to the Crosville Club on Chester Street in Crewe on Friday 30th August 2019.
Ultra 90’s are the UK's first and only 90's dance tribute show. The band featured vocalists, a keyboardist, a guitarist, and a drummer. Musical genres covered during their two-hour set were dance anthems, club classics, old skool garage, house, happy hardcore, drum & bass and hip hop.
Their set recreated songs by artists including Snap!, Technotronic, Beats International, Faithless, Robert Miles, 2 Unlimited, Vanilla Ice, MC Hammer, Daniel Bedingfield, Livin' Joy, Ultrabeat, Urban Cookie Collective, Baby D and The Prodigy.
The show was accompanied by video projections and a light & laser display.
There was also a DJ set preceding and following the show.
This is Ultra 90’s eleventh year of touring and they have performed alongside Chesney Hawkes, D:Ream, Damage, 911, East 17, Kelly Llorena, Livin’ Joy, N-Trance, Snap! and So Solid Crew.
Ultra 90’s will return to the Crosville Club on Friday 8th November 2019.
For further information relating to Crosville Club, please search Crewe Crosville on Facebook.

Queens Park Crewe August 2019

Cheshire East pupils achieve excellent GCSE results again

Cheshire East has continued to buck the national trend with an excellent set of GCSE results.

Provisional GCSE figures released today show that 71 per cent of Cheshire East pupils achieved a ‘standard pass’ or better in combined English and maths with 50 per cent achieving the ‘strong pass’. These results show improvements on last year and are well above expected national rates.

In the core subjects of English and maths, outstanding achievements have been seen. In English, more than 81 per cent of pupils gained the standard pass or better, with 67 per cent achieving a stronger pass.

In maths, 76 per cent of pupils gained the standard pass or better (compared with the national rate of 72 per cent) with 55 per cent achieving a stronger pass.

Other key national indicators have improved on last year including success in wider academic subjects that keep options open for young people and are preferred for entry to degree courses.

Councillor Dorothy Flude, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: “Today is about celebrating all the efforts of young people from across Cheshire East. I have seen first hand the hard work and commitment from both students and teachers and I am delighted that, yet again, Cheshire East is well above national trends. To continue to perform at the highest level, year after year, is a testament to the quality of teaching and learning in our schools.

“I am especially pleased to see the achievements of our most disadvantaged young people, with a six per cent improvement in those who achieved a strong pass in English and maths. This reflects our continued commitment across the borough to improve outcomes for our more vulnerable children.

“I’d like to thank all parents, carers, teachers and all those who have supported our students - right from their early years, through primary and into secondary school - on their education journey.

“I recognise that the last month has been a worrying time for young people, waiting for their results and now they are in, I would encourage them to explore the many opportunities across Cheshire East for continuing their education, apprenticeships, training or employment and I wish them all the very best for the future.”

Money lender and tobacco cheat jailed after joint council investigation

Cheshire East Council’s trading standards team, working in partnership, has helped to secure another successful prosecution against an illegal money lender who was also trading in illicit tobacco products.

Working with the England Illegal Money Lending Team and Cheshire police, trading standards officers have halted the black market operations of Vincent Hamilton who was given a jail sentence when he appeared at Chester Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (23 August).

Hamilton (56), of Badger Avenue, Crewe, pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to several offences, including illegal money lending, money laundering and selling illegal tobacco products he had purchased abroad and which did not carry obligatory government health warnings.

He received a 30 months prison sentence for illegal money lending and fraudulent trading.

Councillor Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities, said: “I would like to thank our trading standards team for their hard work with the illegal money lending team and Cheshire police, in bringing about this successful prosecution.

“Loan sharks cause misery in our communities and their actions must be stamped out. They prey on the vulnerable who then accumulate large debts which they cannot repay. This can result in devastating consequences for the individual and their family.

“Peddling illicit, cheap tobacco products, a practice often linked to organised crime can also have a serious emotional and health impact on the lives of those people who may be trying to give up smoking altogether. It is also a fraud on the taxpayer.

“Cheshire East Council is an enforcing authority and we will continue to work hard to crack down on these unlawful practices.”

Tony Quigley, head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Loan sharks will not be tolerated. They cause nothing but misery for their victims, leaving borrowers trapped in spiralling debt.

“We would urge anyone who has been a victim of this crime, or who may know someone who has, to speak out so that we can take action.”

During a search of Hamilton’s home in November 2018, officers found illicit cigarettes and tobacco with a retail value of £8,116 and cash totalling £7,580. Hamilton, who had been lending money illegally since 2012, had built up a network of 31 clients, with debts totalling £38,000 for which he charged 30 per cent interest.

He was told by the judge that he had been motivated by greed.

If you know of an illegal money lending activity then call the 24-hour confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222 or send a text to 07860 022116. You can also visit: www.stoploansharks.co.uk

Continued A-level success for Cheshire East students

A-level students in Cheshire East have once again achieved impressive results that are above the national average.

The borough’s 1,667 sixth-form students received their results today (Thursday, 15 August), achieving an overall provisional pass rate of 98 per cent, which is above the current national rate.

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “This year’s results are yet again extremely impressive and I’d like to congratulate all students on their achievements.

“I am especially pleased to hear about the successes of our cared for children. Altogether, we have eight young people who have completed their post-16 studies this year and six have secured a place at university. We are so proud of them and all our students for their sustained hard work and commitment adding to the record we have in Cheshire East for excellent results year after year.

“To continue to perform above the national average is a credit to our schools and colleges and I’d like to thank parents, teachers and governors and all those who support our young people for their hard work and dedication.

“Our vision is that all children and young people leave school with the best skills and qualifications they can achieve and the life skills they need to thrive into adulthood. I wish all the young people the very best in the future, whether that is into further or higher education, apprenticeships or taking their first steps into employment.”

A further breakdown of grades shows that the proportion of students achieving grades A* to A is 24 per cent, with 78 per cent achieving an A* to C grade. Whilst the national figure for A* to C has gone down, this has increased for Cheshire East schools this year.

This is the third year of the new A-level and AS-level qualifications being taken following the phasing in of revised syllabuses.

Cheshire East consults public on next phase of Local Plan

People are being invited to comment on the next phase of Cheshire East’s development plan.

The draft site allocations and development policies document (SADPD), which forms the second part of the council’s Local Plan, once finalised, will complete the approved framework for housing, employment and other key infrastructure up to 2030.

The document sets out detailed planning policies to guide decisions on planning applications as well as identifying new sites for small-scale developments. The majority of development needs have already been provided for through the Local Plan Strategy.

Councillor Toni Fox, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for planning, said: “The current version of the SADPD document follows two previous rounds of public consultation and extensive engagement with town and parish councils during 2017 and 2018.

“We want to ensure that everyone who wants to comment on this plan is able to do so as simply and easily as possible. For that reason we have a range of ways available for people to view the document and to submit their comments as part of the consultation process.”

The document is available online and residents can comment directly via an online consultation portal on the council’s website, via this link: https://bit.ly/33w2D2E or simply type ‘Cheshire East site allocations plan’ into a search engine and follow the links.

Hard copies of the consultation documents and supporting reports will be available at the council’s offices at Macclesfield Town Hall, Westfields in Sandbach and Delamere House in Crewe. The main consultation documents are also available at local libraries during their normal opening hours.

Response forms will be available at all of these venues which can be posted back to:

Strategic Planning

Cheshire East Council

1^st Floor Westfields
C/O Municipal Buildings
Earle Street
Crewe CW1 2BJ

Alternatively, responses will also be accepted by email to localplan@cheshireeast.gov.uk

These should include attachments of completed consultation forms. The deadline for receipt of comments by the council is 5pm on 30 September.

The council’s strategic planning team is available to answer any questions about the consultation and provide assistance to anyone wishing to comment on the SADPD document via the above email address or by phoning 01270 685893.

Country life at its best at Tatton Park’s Farm this bank holiday weekend!

Tatton Park hosts a terrific celebration of country life this Bank Holiday weekend, as traditional fun and games, crafts, activities, food and drink take over at the Farm!
The Farm is set in a corner of the Park know as Tatton Dale and was, in its heyday, at the heart of the vast Egerton estate, feeding family, guests and staff at the mansion. Visitors will be able to take a step back in time to meet some of the characters who lived and worked there, including Aunt Mary making butter in her Cottage, as well as the recently restored Mill and machinery in action.
There are favourite childhood games such as egg-and-spoon races, and the chance to show your strength in a tug-of-war! Farmyard friends will be getting involved too with sheep racing throughout the weekend and sheepdog demonstrations on Sunday. Don’t miss the Morris dancers!
Visitors can also learn about traditional country crafts with dry stone walling demonstrations, and the Cheshire Guild of Spinners on hand to show how fleece is spun into yarn.
There’s also a chance to discover where your food comes from as part of our ongoing ‘Field to Fork’ activities with cookery demonstrations as well as traditional stalls offering a range of local ice-cream and cheeses, old-fashioned sweets and Tatton’s own produce.
Jayne Chapman, Farm Manager said, “This weekend is packed full of fun for all the family. If you’ve never been to the Farm before, come along and experience all there is to offer on this 40 acre site – you won’t be disappointed!”
The ‘Traditional Country Weekend at the Farm’ takes place this Bank Holiday at Tatton Park, from noon to 5pm on Saturday 24th, Sunday 25^th and Monday 26th August, with last admission at 4pm. The daily programme varies, so look out for details on the day.
Find all the information at tattonpark.org.uk/events

Community Praised As Firefighters Continue To Tackle Blaze At Residential Complex In Crewe

Thank You - Community Praised As Firefighters Continue To Tackle Blaze At Residential Complex In Crewe

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The people of Crewe have been praised for their goodwill, generosity and kindness following a substantial fire in the town.
Within minutes of the blaze being reported at a supported living complex in Rolls Avenue on the afternoon of Thursday 8 August, local residents had turned up to offer support, donate items and provide lifts for some of those affected by the incident.
Superintendent Pete Crowcroft, who oversees policing in the area, commended locals for the way they rallied round to help others.
He said: “This is a very large fire in a building that is at the heart of the community. Naturally, this will have a significant impact on those living close by and they will clearly be concerned for all those affected.
But the response shown last night within minutes of the incident being reported was nothing short of remarkable and I want to thank every single person who has helped or offered help in some way.
“Your kind hearted gesture will have been very much appreciated by everyone involved and I’m sure will have brought some comfort to the residents affected by the fire.”
Throughout the night 16 fire engines from Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Merseyside were in attendance to get the blaze under control.
This morning, more than 12 hours after the fire started, firefighters remain at the scene and are likely to remain there today and into the weekend.
Crews, wearing breathing apparatus, have used a variety of equipment to fight the fire from the ground including hose reel jets, main jets and high volume pumps. They have also used two aerial platforms to tackle the blaze from height.
The building has sustained significant damage and has partially collapsed.
A small number of residents living in two streets next to the building were evacuated overnight as a precaution.
Residents living nearby are continuing to be advised to keeping their windows and doors closed as there is a lot of smoke in the area.
Neil Griffiths, who is the fire commander in charge of the incident, said: “This is a substantial fire in a very large and complex building. More than 70 firefighters have been at the scene overnight tackling the blaze – the response effort has been immense and I want to thank each and every one of them.
“Our efforts have been hampered by the weather, the layout of the site and the access to it but I want to reassure everyone that we are doing all that we can to bring the fire under control as quickly as possible. The response from the local community has been amazing and we are very appreciative of their support.”
Residents were evacuated following the incident and initially taken to nearby rest centres – arrangements for alternative accommodation is being made for them. A small number of people were taken to hospital to be checked over.
A number of different agencies – including Cheshire Police, Cheshire Fire and Rescue, Cheshire East Council, North West Ambulance Service, NHS England, Public Health England and the Environment Agency – are working together as part of a multi-agency response to the incident and everything is being done to support any residents affected through this difficult time.
Mark Palethorpe, acting executive director people, Cheshire East Council, said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Crewe community for rallying around to support those affected by the terrible fire at Beechmere. The community spirit shown has been overwhelming.
“We have seen very many people offering help, donations and other support both at the rest centre at Crewe Lifestyle Centre and, earlier in the evening, at the site itself.
“We are also aware of the following collection points that have been set up for donations of clothes, towels, bedding and toiletries - Eight Farmers, Crewe, Albert's Corner, Four Eagles, Mecca Bingo, Rainbow Day Nursery, Haslington, Crewe Town FC (5pm - 6.30pm on Friday 9 August), Cumberland Arena, VWJ Earthmoving Ltd (from 7am on Friday 9 August).
“I’d also like to thank our staff who worked so hard through the night, with our partners, to support the residents into alternative accommodation.”
The Salvation Army and British Red Cross has also provided support at the site throughout the night into the morning – for both residents affected by the incident and firefighters who remain at the scene.
A number of road closures remain in place and are likely to stay throughout the day. They include:
> Minshull New Road at the junction with Rolls Avenue.
> Badger Avenue at the junction with Minshull New Road.
> Frank Butt Avenue at the junction with Badger Avenue.
> Underwood Lane at the junction with Windsor Avenue.
Anyone living in the local area who has any concerns is urged to call 101. Any relatives with any concerns can call 101 quoting IML 480541.

Message Sent By
Dan Hind (Cheshire Police / Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Media Officer, Corporate Communications)

Massive Fire In Crewe residential home

• ONGOING: Fire at retirement apartment complex in Crewe
  
  • Time of Incident:
    08/08/2019 - 16:33
    
• Time of Incident:
  08/08/2019 - 16:33
• placeLocation:
  Rolls Avenue, Crewe
• notificationsAttendance:
  A number of fire engines from across the county are in attendance along with two aerial platforms.
  

ONGOING: Shortly after 4.30pm firefighters were called to reports of a fire at a retirement apartment complex in Rolls Avenue, Crewe.
On arrival crews discovered that the fire is in the roof space.
It is affecting an area of the building measuring approximately 15 metres by 20 metres.
A full evacuation of the three-floor complex is taking place and firefighters are devising a plan of action in terms of the best way to fight the fire.

Update at 5.30pm

The fire has breached the roof space.
Safe evacuation of the building is taking place.
Two external jets and two sets of breathing apparatus are currently in use.
A 360-degree survey of the site is being conducted.
This incident will be updated as more information becomes available.
Update 6.30pm
Crews are continuing to fight the fire which now involves approximately 20 per cent of the building.
Twelve fire engines are in attendance and firefighters are using main jets and hose reel jets to fight the fire from a ground level.
Crews are also fighting from above using a hose reel jets and an aerial appliance.
Police are also in attendance and assisting with the transportation of residents to an emergency refuge centre.
A number of road closures are in place and members of the public are asked to avoid the area at the current time to enable emergency services to deal with the incident
Update 7.30pm
Firefighters are continuing to fight the fire.
Crews are using hose reel jets and main jets as well an aerial appliance.
Road closures remain in place and residents nearby are urged to keep their windows and doors closed at this time.
Any relatives with any concerns can call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 480541
Update 10pm
Firefighters remain at the scene of the blaze in Rolls Avenue, Crewe.
There are currently 16 fire engines in attendance and crews are using hose reel jets, main jets and high volume pumps to tackle the blaze.  Two aerial platforms are also being used.
The building, which has been split into several operational sectors, has sustained significant damage and has partially collapsed.
Road closures remain in place in the local area.  Residents living nearby are urged to keep their windows and doors closed as a precaution..
Any relatives with any concerns can call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 480541.
Its understood there are 150 residents who all escaped ok a live video feed is at
https://www.facebook.com/ulbrych/videos/2578714162140616/UzpfSTEwMDAwMTg1NTU3MTE4MDoyMDgyMDA1OTgyMTA2NTY0/

WILL WISHES COME TRUE AT TATTON’S TANABATA FESTIVAL?

The ancient Japanese festival of Tanabata tells a charming legend about the lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi, represented by the stars Vega and Altair, who live and work on opposite sides of the Amanogawa, or Milky Way. When they meet and fall in love, both begin to neglect their work, and Orihime’s father, the Sky King, will only allow them to meet on one day of the year.
The first time they try to meet they cannot cross the Amanogawa, which is symbolised by a river, because there is no bridge. Saddened by Orihime’s tears, a flock of magpies make a bridge with their wings, so the lovers can meet. If it rains on Tanabata the magpies cannot come because the river waters are too high, and the lovers must wait another year.
Knutsford’s Tatton Park is holding a Tanabata Festival on Saturday 17 August from 10:30am – 4pm this year. The perfect setting for the celebration will be overlooking the estate’s beautiful Japanese Garden, described by TV gardener Monty Don as one of the finest in Europe.
One of the many colourful traditions associated with Tanabata is writing wishes on strips of coloured paper, called tanzaku, which are then hung from bamboo. Traditionally young children wished for better skills at sewing and crafts or for better handwriting. Nowadays “I wish to travel in space” or “I wish to climb Everest” might be seen more often.
Tatton Park’s many Tanabata activities will include the chance to have your name written in Japanese, try some origami and watch traditional storytelling with pictures, called Kamishibai. It promises to be a charming and unusual day out, in the perfect setting.
Find all the details in the Events listings at www.tattonpark.org

Landmark Neighbourhood Watch Cybercrime Survey Launched

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Help us understand the impact of cybercrime and be in with a chance to win £50 worth of M&S vouchers
Neighbourhood Watch has today launched a landmark new survey to understand the impact of cybercrime on communities across England and Wales.
Traditionally Neighbourhood Watch has been focused on keeping people safe in the places they live but with the advent of new technology, it’s clear people can be at their most vulnerable when they occupy online spaces.
Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre run by the City of London Police, revealed that last year cybercrime victims lost £28m to online criminals. It reports more than 12,000 cases of cybercrime every six months.
With the threat from online criminals only ever increasing, it is essential we understand the impact this type of crime has on members as well as their understanding and perception of cybercrime.
The survey, designed in conjunction with cybersecurity company Avast, takes just 10 minutes to complete and one lucky responder will be in with a chance to win £50 worth of Marks and Spencer vouchers.
The survey can be completed via the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/nw_cybercrime
It would be great if you could share the survey with other Neighbourhood Watch members particularly those who have been victims of cybercrime.
This news story on our website can be shared with friends, family and neighbours or on your social media profiles: https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/landmark-cybercrime-survey-launched/
Kindest regards,
Central Support Team,
Neighbourhood Watch Network

Message Sent By
William Murphy (NHWN, Administrator, England and Wales)

Charity champion calls on local businesses to support festive fundraiser

With only 4 months until his big “switch on” Charity Champion Graham Witter has already started to plan this year’s Weston Christmas Light Display.

For the seventh year, Graham plans to transform his family home and garden into a Winter Wonderland to raise vital funds for The Donna Louise Hospice in Trentham, Staffordshire, which provided respite care to his late sister, Jessica, and gave many hours of support to Graham and his family.

Over the last six years Graham has raised a phenomenal £92,310 for The Donna Louise, and this year he hopes to top the £100,000 fundraising mark.

Now Graham is calling on local businesses to help him reach this milestone. He said, “Each year the Light Display costs thousands of pounds to organise and without the support and help of the local businesses who sponsor and support the event, it simply wouldn’t be possible.

“By sponsoring the Weston Christmas Light Display local businesses will not only be creating a magical event for our local community, they’ll be continuing my sister’s legacy and helping me raise much needed funds for The Donna Louise which supports many local families like mine across Staffordshire and Cheshire.”

Last year more than 15,000 people visited the Weston Christmas Light Display throughout December, raising an incredible £26,760 which helped fund a learning disability nurse for 12 months and provide two sign and symbol communication workshops for hospice staff. This year Graham is hoping the local community will come together once again and help him beat the remarkable total which was raised in 2018. However, without the support from local businesses, the event simply can’t happen or take place.

He added, “There is a variety of exciting sponsorship opportunities available and with so many people visiting the display throughout December, as well as following us on social media, it’s a chance to grab some excellent brand exposure at a much-loved and liked, community event. I’d love to hear from any new businesses who would like to get involved to help make this year’s Weston Christmas Light Display bigger and brighter than ever before.”

For more information about the Weston Christmas Light Display, and to hear about the sponsorship opportunities available to help support this community event, please contact Graham at graham@westonlightdisplay.co.uk

New visually-impaired football team seeks players

Reporter Jonathan White

New visually-impaired football team seeks players

‘Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC’, a newly formed partially sighted football team, are holding training sessions.

The sessions are open to anyone aged 16 and over with a recognised eye condition with some usable vision.

Training sessions are free and held every Monday (4-5pm) at Nantwich Town FC’s 3G pitch at the Weaver Stadium, Waterlode, Nantwich.

Craig Acton from Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC said, “I hope the sessions take off and we can help build confidence of the local visually impaired community and have fun doing it.”

For further information relating to Nantwich Town Wolves VIFC please contact Craig Acton on 07791214269.

MID CHESHIRE HOSPITALS CHARITY HOSTS BIG TEA PARTY TO CELEBRATE NHS BIRTHDAY

Last week the team at Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity hosted a tea party at Leighton Hospital as part of the national NHS Big Tea campaign. Live music, refreshments and games were enjoyed by Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust staff and invited guests.
The NHS Big Tea is an annual fundraising and awareness campaign with the aims of celebrating the NHS Birthday on 5^th July and recognising the vital work NHS charities do to support our health service.

The charity also received a great response from the local community after asking groups and businesses to host their own tea party to mark the occasion. Crewe Alexandra FC, Northwich Radio, Herbalife and Richmond Village (both in Nantwich) and many more held their own events to ‘raise a cuppa’ to the NHS, whilst raising funds for MCH Charity’s ‘Everybody Knows Somebody’ dementia appeal.


Emma Robertson, MCH Charity Manager said: “Once again we were delighted to be part of this annual nationwide campaign to involve local communities in supporting their NHS Charities. We believe charity plays an important role within the NHS, not only do we fund state-of-the-art equipment, comforts and all the added extras which help make our hospitals better, but we also provide a vital service to the thousands of people who want to say thank you to the staff, wards, departments and community services which care for them and their loved ones every day.”

There are more than 250 NHS charities across the UK. Most of them focus on helping our hospitals do more, whilst others support mental health trusts, community health trusts and ambulance trusts. In recent years NHS charities have funded major capital projects, pioneering research and medical equipment in hospitals, helping patients access the best possible care when they need it most. They also play a key role in mobilising volunteers to support NHS staff, brightening wards and waiting areas with colourful and engaging art and building an important link between our hospitals and our communities.
Mid Cheshire Hospitals charity are keen to support more local groups and businesses with their fundraising. Whatever you choose to do, they can support you through your fundraising journey and can offer lots of resources and support to help make whatever you do a huge success.
For more information contact Carole Salmon, Community Fundraiser on 01270 273248 or email carole.salmon@mcht.nhs.uk.

Cheshire East Council acts to strengthen its planning framework

Cheshire East Council is to move forward on the next phase of Cheshire East’s development plan.

The site allocations and development policies document (SADPD), which forms the second part of the council’s Local Plan, was considered by members of the authority’s cabinet today.

Members agreed to move towards the next round of public consultation on the draft document which, 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 allocates 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: “This plan takes account of consultation responses to the draft document published last September and I’m gratified that extra effort has been made in recent months to engage with town and parish councils about the proposals.

“Having reviewed the options, we recognised the need to have a robust and up-to-date planning framework to avoid further unplanned and speculative developments that took place in our borough in recent years. To reflect the changed planning guidance from Whitehall, we are putting in place a raft of refreshed planning policies that will better equip us to shape and manage sustainable development in Cheshire East.

“As well as updating our planning policies, the SADPD identifies new development areas to meet the needs of some 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 council demonstrate a five-year supply of housing.

Cllr Fox added: “Despite increased home building, our five-year supply continues to be challenged by sections of the development industry, determined to promote sites outside 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 where our five-year supply targets properly reflect the revised approach towards identifying housing requirements using 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.”

All change for Nantwich Market Café

­On Saturday Sue Goodwin, owner of the Tea Chest Café in Nantwich Market hung up her apron for the last time.
Sue has been running the café for in excess of 12 years, establishing many regular customers as well as providing buffets to many organisations in the town.
Passing over the keys to new owners she commented: “I have had some great years and I wish to thank all my customers and fellow market traders.”
There will be no break in service for the café as new owners Ady Rathbone, Geraldine Wallace and Lucy McCambridge are powering ahead to have the Tea Chest back up and running for business as usual on Tuesday.
The new team will be quite at home in their new surroundings having previously run cafes at Beeston and Chelford Cattle Markets over the past 15 years.
They plan to keep a similar menu, but keep an eye out for some of their delicious home-made pies!

Council and partner agencies continue to respond to emergency flooding incidents

Cheshire East Council and partner agencies continue to work closely together to respond to yesterday’s emergency flooding incidents in the north of the borough.

Since the weekend, Cheshire East has experienced prolonged periods of persistent and heavy rain, resulting in standing water and flooding at hot spots on the network.

Yesterday, flash flooding caused major issues in the Poynton, Bollington and Wilmslow areas yesterday evening, affecting around 60 properties and resulted in a number of road closures. Between 60-90mm of rain fell in 24 hours

Cheshire Police coordinated the multi-agency response throughout the night for the emergency services and Cheshire East Council.

Once the major incident response was stood down, Cheshire East Council took responsibility for leading the recovery phase.

Cheshire East Council is committed to keeping residents safe and continues to provide ongoing support, including the delivery of sandbags, flood boards and implementing road closures where necessary.

The council’s adverse weather desk was also mobilised yesterday morning and continues to be in operation today, with the authority’s Highways team so far responding to more than 150 weather-related calls.

As water levels recede, the authority will focus on inspecting the highways network, clearing away any debris, assessing the requirement for repair work and continue to respond to any requests for assistance from members of the public.

Additional resources have been deployed to respond to the issues on the highways network and a number of gully emptiers and jetters are working to remove any hazards and to keep the network safe.

The council – along with partner agencies – has also identified those most vulnerable and have been in direct contact with those affected to ensure their safety.

As part of the recovery process, Highways teams are also we are working in partnership with the council’s environmental service company ANSA to restore the carriageway to its original condition. It includes the deployment of road sweepers to the Poynton, Bollington and Wilmslow areas.

While the majority of roads have now reopened, motorists are advised to drive with care as there is still a large amount of surface water in the area. Members of the public are also reminded to abide by all road closure signs and advised to not walk through flood water as there may be hidden hazards.

Road closures are still in place in the following areas:

● Moggie Lane, Higher Poynton – closed in both directions due to collapse of the bridge at the junction with Narrow Lane. The council is working closely with partner organisations to make safe and repair the bridge and the road will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

● Styal Road, Wilmslow – closed in both directions;

● Fol Hollow, Congleton – closed in both directions

● Mill Lane, Adlington - closed in both directions; and

● Skellorn Green Lane, Adlington – closed due to flooding at the junction with Street Lane and Cawley Lane.0

Two-way temporary traffic lights are also in place along Mudhurst Lane/Higher Lane, Disley as the edge of the carriageway has been affected by flood water.

While rain has eased this morning, a further Met Office weather warning for the North West has been received for heavy rain and thunderstorms between midday and 8pm.

The public are warned that flood alerts are in place for the following areas in Cheshire East:

● Poynton Brook at Poynton and Midway;

● Poynton Brook at Wigwam Wood and parts of Armcon Business Park;

● River Bollin and Agden Brook at Little Bollington; and

● River Bollin at Heatley.

More information can be found at:

https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/warnings

To prepare for the possibility of further floods, residents are urged to sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency's website, follow them on Twitter @EnvAgencyNW for the latest information or call the Flood Line on 0345 988 1188.

There is also further help and advice available from Public Health England regarding how to prepare for a flood and what to do if you are affected by floodwater – visit: www.gov.uk/prepare-for-a-flood

· Members of the public are advised to contact the council on 0300 123 5020 with any highways issues, or 0300 123 5025 out of hours. 

· Updates will be given via the council’s social media pages (@CheshireEast and Cheshire East Council on Facebook) and via the @CECHighways Twitter account.

· Residents can also follow #CheshireEastFloods for the latest.

Fraudsters Targeting Social Media Influencers

Fraudsters Targeting Social Media Influencers

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Fraudsters Targeting Social Media Influencers
Be Aware
The National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has received intelligence to suggest that fraudsters are contacting social media influencers, based in the UK and abroad, offering them the opportunity to market a bogus product, service or investment opportunity.
Fraudsters will present professional and credible pitches to the social media influencers and try to convince them to feature the opportunity for a fee on their social media profiles in order to entice unsuspecting followers of the influencer to sign up or make a purchase.
Additionally, fraudsters are using the names of well-known public figures, implying that their opportunity or product is endorsed by the figure when it is not.
The public should be aware that any apparent endorsement by celebrities, influencers or personalities does not necessarily mean that an investment, product or service is genuine. The public is urged to exercise a cautious approach to any such offer of investment, product or service with the same caution they would at any other time.
What You Need To Do

• If you are purchasing goods from a company you don’t know and trust, carry out some research first, or ask friends or family for advice before completing a purchase.

• Professional-looking websites, adverts or social media posts do not guarantee that an investment opportunity or product is genuine. Criminals can exploit the names of well-known brands or individuals to make them appear legitimate.

• Avoid paying for goods or services by bank transfer unless you know and trust the person or company. Payments via bank transfer offer you no protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use your credit card or payment services such as PayPal as they offer you greater protection if you become a victim of fraud.

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

Would you like to advise on councillors’ allowances?

Cheshire East Council is looking to recruit four people to sit on an independent remuneration panel that advises the authority on appropriate payments for the work carried out by members of the council.

The Independent Remuneration Panel advises the authority on the way in which elected members are reimbursed for their public service.

The panel usually meets two to three times a year but may meet more frequently, depending on the panel’s work programme.

Candidates will be expected to serve for four years and, in recognition of the claim on their time, successful candidates will receive a small allowance of £30 per meeting, plus travel expenses. The chair, who would preferably have experience of chairing an independent remuneration panel, will receive an additional allowance.     

Those interested in applying should contact CECIRP@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for public health and corporate services said: “We are looking for four people with a keen interest in local government.

“Applications are particularly sought from people with specific experience of the workings of local government, or people involved in the private or voluntary sector within the borough.

“The way our members are reimbursed for public service is of interest to many. We want this process to be transparent and, therefore, any advisory role must be independent of the council. I look forward to the formation of this important panel in the coming months.”

Candidates interested in joining the panel should be completely independent, should not be politically active or have a relationship with a councillor or a member of the authority’s staff.

The closing date is 16 August 2019 and further information can be found on the council’s website at: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/your_council/councillor_expenses.aspx