Crewe & Nantwich News November 2009

Burglar Behind Bars A burglar who broke into thirty homes in Crewe was sent to prison for four years. The man also admitted six offences of breaking into sheds and domestic garages, 21 offences of stealing from vehicles and an offence of theft by using a credit card.

More Cannabis Farms Closed Police at Crewe urged people to report any building they suspect may have been turned into a cannabis farm, following the discovery of two in less than a week. Two hundred and fifty cannabis plants were seized from a house in Newfield Drive. Then 450 plants were recovered from a terraced house in Crewe town centre. The two crops would have produced cannabis with a street value in the region of £100,000.

Dealer Jailed A drug dealer from Crewe, found with nearly £14,000 worth of cannabis bush in his possession, was sent to prison for eighteen months. And a 20 years old man was sentenced to 21 months in a Young Offenders Institution after admitting possessing cocaine with intent to supply in Congleton town centre. Both men were caught when patrolling Police Officers became suspicious about their behaviour.

Superintendent Looks Ahead Superintendent Andrew Marsden, who has joined the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Leadership Team says Local Area Partnerships will play a key role in building confidence in local communities. “They are not a meeting, but an agency concept to get things done,” he says. Neighbourhood Policing Units and prolific and priority offenders are among Superintendent Marsden’s responsibilities in his new post. He has 25 years service with Cheshire Police, 23 of them spent in CID and in units tackling serious and organized crime. He says, “This is a very different role and I am really looking forward to it.”

Street Problems Tackled Police in Nantwich dealt with seven people after a series of street disturbances during a busy weekend. Three men were bailed to appear at court, another was given a formal caution and three others were issued with fixed penalty fines.

Eight Years for Stabbing A man has been jailed for eight years for stabbing another man in front of a group of people in Badger Avenue, Crewe. The man pleaded guilty to a charge of wounding with intent. Judge David Hale told him “You were out of control.”

“Disgraceful Behaviour” Resulted in Death A teenager from Nantwich who stole his mother’s car and knocked down and killed another young man has been sentenced to six years in a young offenders’ institution. Chester Crown Court heard that the seventeen years old had been drinking, beer, lager and alco pops before the incident in Winsford. An eighteen years old man who was a passenger in the car at the time of the collision was sent to a young offenders institution for three years. Judge Elgan Edwards told them, “This was a quite disgraceful piece of behaviour.”

Plus for Rural Patrol Security marking for bikes will be offered as part of the next “rural patrol” by Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Unit. P.C. Sarah Marson and Police Community Support Officers Sharon Jones and Nick Jarvis will visit Wychwood, Wybunbury, Audlem and Wrenbury on December 12^th. Sarah said, “We will provide face-to-face talks over a cup of tea for anyone who has any issues to discuss. Bike-marking is a useful ‘extra’ we can offer.”

MP's News Bulletin

WELCOME!

Welcome to this my thirty-first electronic news bulletin.

Remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me.

You can forward the bulletin on to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking here for my website.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Edward Timpson
Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich

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I have recently...

• Addressed & presented GCSE Awards to Sir William Stanier School in Crewe
• Presented St. Thomas More High School, Crewe, with OS Maps provided by Natural England
• Attended & spoke at St. Luke's Hospice's 'Light Up A Life' Remembrance Service in Crewe
• Attended a Christmas fund-raising open day at Nantwich Health Centre
• Attended a Homelessness Forum hosted by St. Vincent de Paul Society in Coppenhall
• Met with the Director of Railway Children regarding missing & runaway children
• Attended the All Party Group for Missing & Runaway Children
• Attended the Conservative Muslim Forum annual reception in London
• Attended a Royal British Legion Parliamentary reception
• Attended the launch of the Make Education Count Westminster Network in Parliament
• Hosted a Parliamentary dinner on Bingo with fellow MP's and representatives from the Rank Group Ltd.
• Sat on the Joint Commission for Human Rights in Parliament
• Sat on the Children, School & Families Select Committee in Parliament
• Questioned the Minister of State for the Foreign & Commonwealth Office over child rights strategy
• Met the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Advent Reception in Parliament

...This weekend I will be visiting the Nantwich Winter Wonderland with my wife Julia and children, where I will be opening the new Ice Rink at Residence Bar and judging the Best Dressed Christmas Stall Competition. I will also be attending the Musical Mayhem Cabaret in Crewe and the Wybunbury Conservatives' Christmas fund-raiser reception in Nantwich.

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National Pandemic Flu Service Information

The National Pandemic Flu Service is a new self-care service comprising a dedicated website. It will allow people to check their symptoms and, if necessary, get a unique number which will give them access to anti-virals at a local collection point.

Visit: www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

Tel: 0800 1 513 100 or 0800 1 513 200 (textphone)

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Nantwich MP Timpson faces "no issues" in expenses inquiry

Nantwichnews

Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has received the all clear from the team heading the inquiry into the MPs’ expenses scandal.

Mr Timpson received a letter this week from the head of the inquiry, the former senior civil servant Sir Thomas Legg.

And in it, Sir Thomas states that “Mr Timpson has no issues.”

This concludes the provisional findings that the inquiry had made back in October.

Sir Thomas’s final report is expected to be submitted to the Members’ Estimate Committee (MEC) in mid-December.

© Nantwichnews Blog

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Crewe worker Kelly Harrison wins carer of the year award

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

A SUPPORT worker who looks after elderly people as well as caring for a disabled brother at home has won the Crewe and Nantwich Carer of the Year Award.

Kelly Harrison, senior support worker at Station House care home, won the trophy at the awards organised by Robert Smith and Son Funeral Services. A number of nominations were received and assessed by a panel of four independent judges.

The award was presented by MP Edward Timpson at a ceremony at Crewe Hall.

The judges commented: “This lady clearly has gone the extra mile, not only in her work caring beyond her job description, but also at home helping care for her brother who has a disability. She has shown a degree of empathy, which although evident in other nominees was particularly present with Kelly. She is a worthy winner.”

Mr Timpson said: “We are faced with an ageing population and the issue of care for the elderly is one which must be addressed. Carers are our unsung heroes and I am really impressed by the dedication and commitment they give so willingly.”

Mr Smith said: “I’m delighted to sponsor this award and I know the judges had an extremely difficult task in selecting a winner. All the carers in our community deserve recognition for the devotion they give to what can be a quite demanding role.”

Kelly won a glass trophy, bouquet of flowers and afternoon tea for two at Crewe Hall.

Most highly commended was Jean Dyde, a carer at Richmond Village in Nantwich.

Highly commended were Gill Corns, chef at Cypress Court care home Crewe and Karen Potts and Gemma Mitchell carers at Cypress Court, and Maggie Ramshaw, a carer at Brookfield House nursing home Nantwich.

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Pantomime cast gets behind charity Santa Fun Run in Crewe

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

PANTO stars are urging Crewe residents to back this year’s Santa Fun Run to raise funds for terminally ill children.

The cast took time out from rehearsals at the Lyceum to join Hope House Hospice worker Alison Marsh to promote the event, which takes place on Sunday, December 13.

David Lonsdale, who plays King Bumble in this year’s panto, Sleeping Beauty, said: “Over the last few years I’ve visited a number of hospices and am always struck by what lovely, cheerful places they are.

“It’s well known how tight funding is for the hospice movement, so I would urge everyone to join in and contact the hospice to arrange sponsorship.”

The star of ITV’s Heartbeat has also said he will do his best to be at the event to see off the runners.

“I’ve got a matinee performance that day,” he said. “But if I can be there I will be. I will do my very best.”

Former Rainbow star Jane Tucker, who plays the good fairy Azuriel, said: “Anything to help with this sort of charity is good because it is so special.

“The work the hospices do is so special and this event should be supported.”

The run starts at 11am and is about one mile long.

Hope House is in Oswestry but caters for many families in the Crewe and Nantwich area who have children with life-limiting conditions. Staff want as many people as possible to take part.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson was one of the first to sign up.

“I’m very much looking forward to the event,” he said.

“Hope House and the children they care for are such a good cause and the Santa theme will make it a little different from my last charity run.”

It costs £12.50 to register for the run but children are free and each adult can take along up to three children.

Each participant will receive a pack including their Father Christmas suit.

Every entrant is asked to raise £20 in sponsorship.

Anyone wishing to enter the race should call into the Hope House Shop in Market Street, Crewe, or phone 01691 671671.

Information is also available at www.santarun.org.uk.

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd

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Lady Verdin Trust dishes out the honours at Nantwich Civic Hall

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

STAFF at an adult education trust have been honoured for their hard work.

The Lady Verdin Trust, which provides support and care for adults with learning disabilities in Crewe and Nantwich, held a dinner and dance at Nantwich Civic Hall.

The evening included a presentation which recognised the hard work of many of the trust’s staff.

Edward Timpson MP presented 18 NVQ awards, while South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive John Dunning presented in-house training awards to 27 members of staff.

For the first time this year, two STAR Colleague Awards were presented by Cllr Roland Domleo.

Francis Cookson was named Team Member of the Year while Julie Thomas was crowned New Starter of the Year.

Pat Mellor, Phil Sinclair and Jean Noakes achieved 10-year service awards – and Susan Cole, who has worked with the trust since it started, achieved 25 years’ service.

The final award was presented to Susan Lady Barlow, who after 27 years’ service was retiring as a trustee.

The trust’s chief executive, Chris Chennell, said: “It was a wonderful evening.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Might there be some fight left in the class war after all?

The Spectator

The Tories are in mild shock following PMQs, they never expected Cameron to get clunked like that. Brown is clearly going to try and use Tory inheritance tax policy to ram home the message that a Cameron government will be a government of the rich, by the rich, for the rich.

But the Tories are taking comfort from their belief that Brown’s ugly class war politics won’t work, pointing to how they failed in Crewe and Nantwich. But the attacks on Edward Timpson backfired, at least in part, because Timpson was a bad target. It is hard to portray someone as an out of touch, uncaring toff when their family have fostered 80 odd children and have a long history of local philanthropy. Considering this I think it would be premature to delcare class war totally ineffective because it failed against this particular candidate.

© 2009 The Spectator

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MP opens academy

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

Local employer Gist, a supply chain specialist, has launched a specialist HR and training business, Gist People Services, to provide vocational training to its employees, suppliers, customers and competitors.

Edward Timpson, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, opened Gist People Services training academy in Crewe on Friday.

The academy provides Skills For Life adult education in literacy and numeracy – with the opportunity to gain a certificate equivalent to GCSE A grade.

NVQs, Skills For Life and CPCs are all offered including NVQs in Driving Goods Vehicles, Warehousing and Storage, Business Administration, Customer Service, IT, Management, and Team Leading.

Many of the assessors are Gist employees working as drivers and warehouse operatives, meaning that they can truly relate to the working environment and practices of those who are undertaking their NVQ or Skills For Life training (Numeracy and Literacy), an unrivalled standard of service.

Gist’s general manager Richard Watson said: “We’re fully committed to training and firmly believe that it is our people that make us a successful business.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Unfair media advantage

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson this week expressed concern over clear evidence that independent local newspapers are struggling to compete with town hall publications and council newsletters.

He said that he was worried that local newspapers do not have the same level of resources at their disposal as taxpayer-funded council newsletters.

To tackle this problem his party have pledged for tougher rules on town hall publicity spending, and the liberalisation of local government data for commercial and voluntary use, as well as closely scrutinising council publications to make sure they don't exceed their remit.

Commenting Mr Timpson said: "Local papers, such as the Chronicle, bring communities together and are vital resources - they need to be able to compete on equal terms.

"Detailed and informative council papers are useful, but they shouldn't encroach on independent media, and drive them off the shelves. With these new rules, there will be room for both.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Labour 'failing pupils'

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson is “disappointed” by the new Ofsted report which shows that millions of children in the UK are still being let down by the quality of their education.

“The report found that almost a third of schools, educating 2.3million children, are 'mediocre or worse', while almost half of Labour's ‘flagship’ academies are failing,” said Mr Timpson

The report goes on to detail a string of complaints from employers that many young people are leaving school without having mastered reading writing and arithmetic, the so-called 'three Rs'.

Ofsted says that a 'stubborn core of poor teaching’ was evident in thousands of schools, perpetuating the gap between pupils from wealthy and deprived backgrounds.

Commenting on the report Mr Timpson said: "Luckily here in Crewe and Nantwich we have some fantastic schools - Brine Leas was recently ranked 27th best secondary without a sixth form in the country.

"But this report shows that some schools, particularly in poorer areas, are failing our children badly.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Nantwich homes could get energy work under Tory plans

Nantwichnews

Every homeowner in Nantwich could have the right to home energy efficiency work worth £6,500 under a Tory government.

That was the claim made by the party which plans to help households protect the environment and save money.

The idea, backed by Nantwich MP Edward Timpson, suggests there would be no upfront cost as the work will be paid for by savings on energy bills from improved insulation.

It will save families money and make Crewe and Nantwich’s homes warmer in winter, Mr Timpson said.

And he claimed that a typical home could see £30 a month knocked off its final bill.

The plan also includes working with councils like Cheshire East to promote a ‘points for recycling’ scheme.

Points are converted into vouchers for shops including Marks & Spencer and Costcutter, or into donations to charities. Households could earn up to £175 a year in vouchers.

Mr Timpson said: “The new plans to insulate people’s homes for no upfront cost and rewarding people for recycling will not only protect the environment, but also help families and pensioners in Crewe and Nantwich who are struggling to make ends meet.”

© Nantwichnews Blog

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Trust Celebrates Staff Achievements

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

THE Lady Verdin Trust celebrated its annual dinner and dance at Nantwich Civic Hall on Thursday.

The group is an independent provider of support and care for adults with learning disabilities in Crewe and Nantwich.

Chief executive Chris Chennell, who hosted the event, said: “It was a wonderful evening and a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Trust and its staff over the past 12 months.”

The event was attended by more than 300 people who work or are associated with the Trust and included an awards presentation.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson supported the event by presenting NVQ awards to 18 members of staff.

Chief Executive of South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce John Dunning presented the Support Assistant General Awards, the Trust’s two-year in-house training programme, to 27 members of staff.

And, for the first time this year, two Star Colleague Awards were presented by Councillor Roland Domleo. Francis Cookson was named Star Colleague Team Member of the Year and Julie Thomas won the award for New Starter of the Year.

Other awards were presented in recognition of long service – Pat Mellor, Phil Sinclair and Jean Noakes achieved ten years service and Susan Cole, who has worked with the Trust since it started, achieved 25 years service.

The final award was presented to Susan Lady Barlow, who after 27 years service was retiring as a trustee.

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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Nantwich MP hits out over Ofsted education claims

Nantwichnews

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has hit out after a new Ofsted report shows millions of children are still being let down by the quality of their education.

It found almost a third of schools are ‘mediocre or worse’, while almost half of Labour’s flagship academies are failing.

It details a string of complaints from employers that many young people are leaving school without mastering reading, writing and arithmetic.

Ofsted blames a “stubborn core” of poor teaching in thousands of schools.

Mr Timpson said: “Luckily here in Crewe and Nantwich we have some fantastic schools.

“Brine Leas in Nantwich was recently ranked 27th best secondary without a sixth form in the country.

“But this report shows that some schools, particularly in poorer areas, are failing our children badly.

“When Tony Blair said ‘Education, Education, Education’ were his three priorities I doubt this is what he envisioned.”

© Nantwichnews Blog

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MP Supports Local Newspapers

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson have pledged his support to local newspapers.

He has expressed concern over evidence that independent local newspapers are struggling to compete with town hall publications and council newsletters.

He said he was worried that local newspapers didn't have the same level of resources at their disposal as taxpayer-funded council newsletters.

To tackle this problem his party have pledged for tougher rules on town hall publicity spending, and the liberalisation of local government data for commercial and voluntary use, as well as closely scrutinising council publications to make sure they don't exceed their remit.

Mr Timpson said: "Local papers bring communities together and are vital resources - they need to be able to compete on equal terms.

"Detailed and informative council papers are useful, but they shouldn't encroach on independent media, and drive them off the shelves.

"With these new rules there will be room for both."

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

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

Help Needed Charles Dick

We have a relation of Dick, Charles who is trying to find any information on
him or any photos if you have anything please contact us

Born at Broughty Ferry in 1838, he served an apprenticeship from 1854
under James How at Monifieth Foundry. After short times as a workman
in the marine-engine shops of J. & G. Thomson on the Clyde and of James Jac
k & Co at Liverpool, he was taken-on in the Crewe erecting shops in August
1860 after walking to that place from Liverpool in search of work.
In 1862, while a chargehand erector, he attracted the attention of young
Webb at the evening classes of the Mechanics Institute where he won a prize.
 Webb brought him into the office as a temporary tracer and draughtsman, and
 in 1863 he became an established member of the drawing office staff at 8s 4d [42p]
 a day. He succeeded Kampf as chief draughtsman on 15 December 1871 at a salary
of £160 a year raised in steps to £225 at the end of 1874 and, as he himself wrote,
 with heavy work and long hours. Under his charge were developed the designs of the
 Webb Precursors, Precedents and coal engines.

In February 1877 he was appointed manager of the signal department at Crewe; he
had manufacture, installation and maintenance in his care, with much outdoor wor
k along the line in all weathers. G. P. Neele, the LNWR traffic superintendent,
 paid him compliments for his signal work in Railway Reminiscences ( 1902).

In February 1882 he succeeded Worsdell as works manager, though the appointment
 was still styled indoor assistant. He died on 2 June 1888 of chest and kidney
complaints at the age of 50, but in essence he was worn out by the work and its
 responsibilities following his hard and often penurious youth. In reporting his
 death to the Locomotive Committee Webb said "he was a very able and faithful
 servant of the Company." A grant of six months' salary, less amount paid on
 sick leave, was given to his four children aged 23 to 14, for he was a widower.
 Dick came to take much part in Crewe local affairs. He was deputy mayor to Webb
in the Jubilee year of 1887, and presided at the public dinner to celebrate the
 Queen's Jubilee and Crewe's railway jubilee, for Webb as mayor of the borough
was away at the national thanksgiving service in Westminster Abbey. He was treasure
r of the Mechanics Institute 1875-81. After Dick's death in 1888 a shelter was
erected in the then new Queen's Park i

n memory of him; he himself had supervised the layout of the park.
Webb and Dick always got on well together and were much of an age.
One of Dick's letters preserved long after his death shows him to have
been human and unaffected, and gives a good first-hand account of
Crewe in the mid-1880s. 

Sneak Burglaries

Many people associate sneak in burglary with summer weather when doors and windows are left unlocked during warm weather. We are trying to get the message out that these types of burglaries can occur throughout the year. Around 36% of all burglaries happen through unlocked doors and windows. That is a massive percentage of burglaries that could be prevented by taking simple measures. It is worth pointing out that in the main Crewe & Nantwich is a safe place to reside. All areas can fall foul of these types of opportunist crimes but if we work together to spread the message to be vigilant we hope to be able to reduce the number of opportunities for would be burglars to engage in this type of behaviour in Crewe & Nantwich.

In many cases people simply forget to lock their doors and windows and may leave an opening insecure. It is advisable to try and get into a habit of checking all doors and windows are secure prior to leaving the house and before going to bed. If you begin to undertake a check regularly it will become part of a normal routine. People who have teenage children/other family members living with them need to ensure that they drive home the importance of always ensuring that doors and windows are secure to these members of the household. It serves little purpose for a couple of people in the house to follow these precautions if other members of the house fail to see the importance of taking these steps.

In several cases people choose to leave their doors and windows open for a variety of reasons and this is something that many of us are guilty of doing at times. It is easy to fall into the trap of believing that it won't happen to us because we have left doors and windows open before whilst nipping out and nothing has happened. This is by no means a fool proof system in terms of security as it relies purely on good luck and chance. Although it can be a pain, it is essential that all windows and doors are secured whenever you leave your house unoccupied, even if just for a matter of minutes - remember a couple of minutes is all it takes for someone to walk in and steal from you. Remember, it could affect a house insurance claim if they conclude that you have not taken reasonable steps to secure your property.

Amazingly, in some cases people actually leave doors insecure whilst they are absent from the property on a long term basis. Just last week officers in Crewe tried to attend some properties and found that although the owners were out that they had left their patio door / rear doors open to allow their dogs access to the garden. These houses have subsequently been warned about the dangers of doing this but it is a pattern that is likely to be repeated elsewhere in the area.

Contrary to popular belief a large proportion of sneak in burglaries and burglaries occur during daylight hours. Although most people fear coming face to face with a burglar in their home at night, in reality, many burglars want the easiest option where they can get the maximum return with the least chance of being caught. In many areas this tends to be during the day when the majority of residents in streets are at work, school, college etc and there is less natural surveillance from neighbours and passers by.

Even when present in your property it is advisable to lock access doors and close the windows in the rooms that you are not in, particularly on the ground floor. It is easy to be concentrating on something elsewhere in your property and for someone to open a door/lean through a window and take an item quickly such as a handbag, purse, wallet, phone etc.

Please pay particular attention to this advice and pass on to scheme members, friends and family and ask them to circulate as widely as possible. It is of particular note in the run up to Christmas as many households are busy buying and storing presents for friends and family (which may end up under Christmas trees in the upcoming weeks) so there are a high proportion of new and often expensive items in many homes that could provide easy pickings for a sneak in burglar with highly upsetting results for the householder.

As always if anyone witnesses any suspicious behaviour please contact Cheshire Constabulary via 999 if an emergency or 0845 458 0000 in all other instances.

If anyone has any anonymous information that they would like to provide this can be done via Cheshire Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

North West in Bloom

We are writing to say how delighted we are that the village of Willaston has been awarded the second runners up prize in the North West In Bloom, Small Town Category. It is particularly praiseworthy because Willaston was competing against settlements three times their size. We would like to congratulate the Parish Council Chairman, Cllr. Mike Heywood and all the many other volunteers on the Willaston Britain in Bloom Committee on their success. I am sure that all the village residents are appreciative of their hard work in making Willaston look so beautiful and a great place to live. Thanks are also due to those who have helped fund the work done, the Parish Council, Cheshire East Council and other commercial sponsors. Well done to all concerned.

Yours faithfully,

Councillors Margaret Simon, Ray Westwood and Brian Silvester, Rope Ward, Cheshire East Council

What your MP has done

Welcome to this my twenty-nineth electronic news bulletin.

Remember, you can always contact me directly if you have any questions for me.

You can forward the bulletin on to your friends and family, who can sign up themselves by clicking here for my website.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Edward Timpson
Member of Parliament for Crewe & Nantwich

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I have recently...

• Attended Brine Leas High School Awards Evening in Nantwich
• Attended the re-opening of the Shavington Leisure Centre in Shavington
• Attended the Lady Verdin Trust Annual Awards Ceremony in Nantwich
• Attended the Cheshire East Council Citizens' Advice Bureau annual general meeting in Crewe
• Attended the South Cheshire Community Council reception in Crewe
• Held a Community Street Stall in Crewe
• Officially started the Crewe's Missiles Club 'Pink Run 2009' fundraiser for Breast Cancer Awareness in Crewe
• Asked the Secretary of State for Defence about support for Crewe and Nantwich veterans affected by nuclear weapons testing
• Attended the Crewe & Nantwich Lions Club fireworks display in Queen's Park, Crewe
• Attended the Your Champions Awards celebrating local heroes
• Met with the Crewe & Nantwich Samaritans in Crewe
• Sat on the Children, Schools & Families Select Committee
• Sat on the Joint Commission for Human Rights
• Spoken in the House of Commons on the Coroners & Justice Bill
• Met with representatives from the National Headteachers' Association & the General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers
• Met with representatives of the National Union of Students and Manchester Metropolitan University regarding the cost of higher education
• Sat on the Committee of Selection's Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee
• Attended the After Adoption national annual general meeting in Manchester
• Attended the Virgin London Marathon reception in Parliament

I also attended the Cheshire East Council and Royal British Legion Remembrance Day Services in both Crewe & Nantwich.

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General Election Information

Although the General Election has yet to be called, council officials in Crewe and Nantwich are already working hard to make sure that all eligible residents can have their say on polling day.

Electoral Registration Office staff will be sending forms to households over the Autumn to compile a new electoral register that will be the basis for next year’s elections, including the local elections in England in May.

By completing and returning the form Crewe and Nantwich voters will be making sure they will be able to have their say on what matters to them.

For more information visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.

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National Pandemic Flu Service Information

The National Pandemic Flu Service is a new self-care service comprising a dedicated website. It will allow people to check their symptoms and, if necessary, get a unique number which will give them access to anti-virals at a local collection point.

Visit: www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

Tel: 0800 1 513 100 or 0800 1 513 200 (textphone)

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MP meets Transport Secretary to discuss future of Crewe Station

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has met the Transport Secretary to discuss the future of Crewe Station.

Mr Timpson met Lord Adonis at the town’s station where they discussed the various problems it faces which, a spokesman said, mainly related to lack of funding for major works involving wholesale redevelopment of the site or a move to another site.

Mr Timpson discussed Cheshire East Council’s plans for Crewe and where the station might fit into that.

He said Lord Adonis was keen to hear more after the initial phase of consultation by the council had taken place.

The two politicians agreed to meet again once it was clearer where the station might fit into future regeneration plans for Crewe.

Mr Timpson said: “The station is a community and commercial facility and Lord Adonis and I, despite our political differences, want it to succeed.

“I’m glad he recognises, as I do, the bigger picture the station has to fit into regarding regeneration in Crewe. However, in the meantime I remain in close touch with Network Rail and Virgin Trains about shorter term works to improve the station environment.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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MP Supports Poppy Appeal

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson last week showed his support for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal by visiting volunteers at Crewe Station.

Since 1921 the annual appeal has aimed to raise money for current and ex serving people.

One of the many young people who have given up time to support the Poppy Appeal this year is 15 year old Cadet William Patterson who is a member of the 100 (Nantwich) Squadron, Air Training Corps.

He is keen to help raise money to support the appeal, and has been up as early as 6am collecting donations at Crewe Railway Station.

Speaking after Mr Timpson's visit, Stuart Kay of the Royal British Legion in Crewe said: "I am amazed and delighted by the response we have received this year and would like to thank all those who have donated their time and money to this important cause."

He went on: "I would also like to thank Sam Dixon, the station manager, who has given permission for us to sell poppies at Crewe station this year, and indeed to all those organisations who so generously allow us to use their premises."

Mr Timpson emphasised the importance of the appeal, saying: "I have a deep gratitude to all our servicemen and women, both past and present, who have protected our country.

"Those serving in Afghanistan at the moment are doing so in the proud tradition of previous generations, and they deserve all our respect and support."

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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'Tell us the figures' call

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

Edward Timpson, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, has told Gordon Brown to stop dragging his feet over a new law which requires the Government to detail how much taxpayers’ money is spent locally – and in every other part of the country.

The new law, called the Sustainable Communities Act 2007, was passed by Parliament with wide cross-community support from local and national organisations.

It aims to give people the power to decide how their cash is spent locally and requires a regular breakdown of spending by central Government departments and quangos.

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Tory proposals to help drivers

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has added his weight to national calls to put the brakes on illegal clampers.

Following the announcement of the Conservative Party’s proposals to cut congestion and disruption on roads, Mr Timpson said it is important to stall rogue wheel clampers.

He said: “Under this Government, getting around has become a daily grind. Drivers have to avoid endless roadworks, rogue clampers extorting cash and speed cameras designed to raise money rather than improve safety.

“Conservatives will use practical, common sense measures to tackle congestion that is costing our economy millions. There should be more openness on how transport decisions are made that affect people’s lives.”

The proposals call for clampers to be forced to abide by a strict code of conduct covering penalties, release fees and conditions.

The proposal states: “Each firm will also have to be part of an officially recognised trade association, such as the British parking Association, who will be required to censure or suspend membership from firms who deviate from this code.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Nantwich MP fights for new law for local taxpayers

The NantwichNews Blog

Nantwich taxpayers may soon find out how much of their money is actually spent on the town, under a new law.

MP Edward Timpson said the new law, called the Sustainable Communities Act 2007, was passed by Parliament with support from local and national organisations.

It aims to give people the power to decide how their cash is spent in their area.

It also requires a regular breakdown of spending by central government departments and quangos in new “Local Spending Reports”.

Mr Timpson claims Ministers have been trying to water down the new law by applying it only to councils and NHS Primary Care Trusts.

He said: “It’s time for the Government to show us the money, and tell Crewe and Nantwich residents how much of their money is actually spent in our area.

“At the moment unelected quangocrats spend almost £4,000 a year per household in Crewe and Nantwich. Local people deserve far greater say in how their money is spent.”

© Nantwichnews Blog

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Family Fun Day Proves A Hit

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

A CRIME-fighting venture, called Not In My Neighbourhood, has proved a real success in South Cheshire.

Residents across the area have been taking to the streets this week in a series of events about tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.

Thousands of people up and down the country are all joining forces with crime-fighting professionals and local councils for a week of community action.

In Crewe, a family fun day took place at the Frank Webb Avenue play area.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson joined in the activities when he tried guessing the weight of a giant pumpkin.

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson chats to pupils at Parliament

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

A GROUP of GCSE pupils from Ruskin Sports and Languages College met with Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson during a recent visit to the Houses of Parliament.

Mr Timpson found time to have a chat with the pupils after their tour of Parliament last month.

After the tour Ruskin College teacher Michael Vitalis said: “Everybody from Ruskin thoroughly enjoyed the tour of the Houses of Parliament and the students especially enjoyed the question and answer session with Edward.

“They found it really interesting, and thought it was a great opportunity to discuss the things that are important to them with their MP.”

And Mr Timpson was equally enthusiastic.

“I always enjoy meeting young people from Crewe and Nantwich, especially when they come down to Parliament and I get a chance to explain some of the things I do during the week’” he said.

“Whenever I meet people of this age I am always amazed by how interested and well-informed they are. It completely dispels the negative stereotypes that all our kids are apathetic.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Early riser sells his poppies with pride

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

A young air cadet has been getting up at the crack of dawn to sell poppies at Crewe Railway Station.

Cadet William Patterson, 15, a member of the 100 (Nantwich) Squadron, has been up as early as 6am collecting donations.

Stuart Kay of Crewe Royal British Legion said: “I’m amazed and delighted by the response this year and would like to thank all those who have donated their time and money to this important cause.

“I’d also like to thank station manager Sam Dixon for giving us permission for us to sell poppies at the station and all the organisations who generously allow us to use their premises.”

Edward Timpson MP said cadets such as William are a shining example of the respect shown by most young people for veterans of previous generations.

Mr Timpson emphasised the importance of the appeal and said: “I have a deep gratitude to all our service men and women, both past and present, who have protected our country.

“Those serving in Afghanistan at the moment are doing so in the proud tradition of previous generations, and they deserve all our respect and support.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Not in My Neighbourhood

Crewe Blog

Plenty going on over the last week, in particular the Not in My Neighbourhood Week events around Cheshire East. Residents across the area are taking to the streets this week in a series of events about tackling crime and anti-social behaviour. Thousands of people up and down the country are all joining forces with crime-fighting professionals and local councils for a week of community action. In Crewe, there was a Family Fun Day at the Frank Webb Avenue Play Area. Crewe and Nantwich MP, Edward Timpson, joined in the activities when he tried guessing the weight of the giant pumpkin.

© Crewe Blog

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MP Looks To Crewe's Rail Future

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

LORD Adonis, the Secretary of State for Transport, met with MP Edward Timpson at Crewe railway station on Friday to discuss the future of the aging terminal.

The pair started by recognising the problems the station faces, focussing on a lack of funding for major works involving wholesale redevelopment of the site or a move to another site.

The Crewe and Nantwich MP talked of Cheshire East Council's plans for Crewe, and where the station might fit into that.

Lord Adonis was keen to hear more after the initial phase of consultation by the council had taken place.

Both politicians recognised the potential of the site to generate investment and a commercial dividend for Crewe and its surrounding areas.

They agreed to meet again once it was clearer where the station might fit into future regeneration plans for Crewe.

Mr Timpson said: "The station is a community and commercial facility, and Lord Adonis and I, despite our different political backgrounds, want it to succeed.

"I am glad he recognises, as I do, the bigger picture the station has to fit into regarding regeneration in Crewe.

"However, in the meantime I remain in close touch with Network Rail and Virgin Trains about shorter term works to improve the station environment."

Also discussed were the National Railway Skills Academy, which Mr Timpson and Pete Waterman are keen to see based in Crewe, and Mr Timpson's wish to see the electrification of the Crewe to Chester line go ahead as soon as possible.

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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MP Presses For New Law

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

SOUTH Cheshire MP Edward Timpson this week demanded Gordon Brown stop dragging his feet over a new law.

The change would compel the Government to tell people how much taxpayers’ money is spent in Crewe and Nantwich, and in every other part of the country.

The new law, called the Sustainable Communities Act 2007, was passed by Parliament with wide cross-community support.

It aims to give local people the power to decide how their cash is spent in their area.

It requires a regular breakdown of spending by central government departments and quangos in new ‘Local Spending Reports’.

Mr Timpson said: “It’s time for the Government to show us the money and tell Crewe and Nantwich residents how much of their money is actually spent in our area.

“At the moment unelected quangocrats spend almost £4,000 a year per household in Crewe and Nantwich.

"Local people deserve far greater say in how their money is spent.”

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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Nantwich MP Timpson calls for police form-filling to be cut

The NantwichNews Blog

Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has called on the Government to cut back on mountains of form filling faced by local police officers.

He told Parliament how Nantwich residents had been working in partnership with the police to combat drug crime.

But then quizzed Home Secretary Alan Johnson on how he was going to reduce the amount of administration police have to face.

The Home Secretary said a report by Jan Berry, former head of the Police Federation, was being drafted to identify how “administrative burden could be reduced to the absolute minimum.”

Afterwards, Mr Timpson said: “I am pleased the Home Secretary acknowledges his Government has a problem to solve.

“But this is taking too long, and there is always some report or inquiry that has to be concluded before real action is taken.

“Why not take pragmatic action now? Only the other day I heard from a local policeman who said much of his job could be done by a secretary. He wanted to fight crime, not fill in forms!”

© 2009 NantwichNews

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Crewe pays its respects on Remembrance Sunday

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

WAR veterans joined serving soldiers, civic dignitaries and children on Sunday as Crewe paid its respects to servicemen and women who lost their lives in two world wars and more recent conflicts.

Soldiers from the First Battalion of the Mercian Regiment marched through the town centre to the War Memorial at the Civic Square.

They were joined by war veterans, members of the Royal British Legion, representatives of the Territorial Army as well as cadets from all services.

Cheshire East Mayor Margaret Simon took the salute and Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson took part in the wreath laying ceremony.

Alan Brereton, chairman of the Crewe branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people turn out to pay their respects. There was a lot of members of the public. And all the cadet services were there, sea, air and army, and the scouts and guides movement were very well represented.

“It was nice to see a lot of younger people there.”

The parade was led by the United Co-operative 2000 Band.

The service on the Civic Square was taken by the Mayor’s chaplain, Father Charles Razzall.

The Act of Remembrance was followed by the bugler sounding the Last Post before the two minute silence was observed at 11am. After the chaplain read the Kohima Epitaph the bugler sounded Reveille.

“The turnout was tremendous and it was wonderful so many people paid their respects,” said the mayor.

“It was such an honour for me to be the first Mayor of Cheshire East at the ceremony in my own local area.”

At Haslington too elderly and young marched side by side as they remembered those who were killed serving their country.

Like the people of Crewe they were also praying for the safe return of those soldiers still serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Local resident Lee Allen said: “There was big turnout of all ages. Everyone wanted to pay their respects.”

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson donates shoes to wheelchair charity

Crewe and Nantwich Chronicle

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has put his best feet forward for charity at the Mecca Bingo club.

Mr Timpson handed over a pair of shoes to the Phoenix Leisure Park club’s Heels for Wheels campaign on Friday.

The donated footwear will help raise money for young people’s mobility equipment.

Club manager Gill Clark said: “It's fantastic to get such high profile local support and we’re very grateful for Mr Timpson's donation.

“We’ve set up a collection point in the club for people to drop in their old footwear and are looking forward to collecting mountains of shoes – but we’d advise customers to bring an extra pair to wear home, and while playing a game of bingo of course!”

Since January 2008, Mecca bingo clubs across the country have raised almost £500,000 for the campaign.

The money raised by each club is used regionally – ensuring that a disabled young person local to each club enjoys the freedom and independence that a new powered wheelchair or adapted trike provides.

© 2009 Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales Ltd.

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Strike Action To Defend Crewe Jobs

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

WORKERS at Crewe company Fujitsu are to take strike action this week to defend their jobs.

More than 80% per cent of Unite union staff at the computer giant's Crewe office have voted to walk out over plans to freeze pay and close their final salary pensions.

The news comes days after the Japanese-owned firm, which employs more than 300 people at its base on Crewe Business Park, announced plans to cut up to 1,200 job because of the recession.

Unite spokesman Kevin Davies said: "We are expecting to take three days strike action in Crewe, Manchester, Warrington and sites nationally in a dispute over jobs, pensions and pay.

"Strike action will commence tomorrow (Thursday November 12) with picketing at a number of sites."

Union bosses met with Fujitsu on Monday to determine what action would take place.

Some 4,000 employees in the main defined benefit pension plan are being hit by the company's plans.

Union chief said Fujitsu intends to force this through by dismissing employees after the end of the consultation period in November, and offering them employment on new contracts which are unchanged except in relation to pensions.

The union estimates that the proposed pension scheme change would reduce the total pay package of each employee by typically around 20%.

A unite spopkesman added: "The company imposed a pay freeze on UK staff earlier this year just a week before it was due to take effect, withdrawing promised pay rises to employees.

"In late August, Fujitsu announced proposals for 1,200 redundancies in the UK and has since put 6,000 people at risk of redundancy, amounting to 50% of its UK workforce."

Peter Skyte, Unite national officer for IT and communications, said: “Unite members are asking why they should lose their jobs and tighten their belts when last year the company paid out about £150m to shareholders and around £1.6m to two directors as compensation for loss of office.

“Fujitsu remains a highly profitable company and our members are insisting that the company must treat them fairly and increase pay, provide decent pensions, and consult meaningfully to minimise job losses and avoid compulsory redundancy.”

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson said he has been in touch with Fujitsu and would be keeping a close eye on developments.

The strike action comes as further bad news for Crewe's economy, following news last week that train firm Bombardier is to axe a fifth of its workforce.

The firm is to halt breakdown repairs at its Crewe Works by the end of the year.

Bosses entered a 30-day consultation period with workers and unions after announcing 69 jobs are to go at the West Street works.

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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TA Training U-Turn

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

SOUTH Cheshire MP Edward Timpson has applauded the Government climb-down over plans to drastically cut training for the Territorial Army.

On October 15, the Government announced that weekly and monthly Territorial Army training would be cut by £20 million – wiping out training for tens of thousands of Territorials.

This represents a third of the Territorial Army’s annual budget.

However, following sustained public and political pressure, the plans were scrapped.

Since 2002, some 20,000 reservists have seen active service in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Balkans, most of them from the TA.

But cuts over the last twelve years have seen numbers in the TA fall from 57,000 to 35,000.

Mr Timpson said: “Our reserves need all the support they can get, both in terms of training and equipment.

“We should not send a single soldier into battle if we cannot say that everything possible has been done to prepare them.

“Why would any young man or woman walk in to our local TA office if they are not absolutely confident that their Government supports them 100%?”

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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MP Calls For Action On Nuclear Test Veterans

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has called for action from the Government regarding British nuclear test veterans.

Between 1952 and 1967 the UK carried out a number of tests of nuclear weapons in the Pacific Ocean and in Australia, involving more than 20,000 servicemen.

Some 30% of men involved in the tests have since died, mostly in their 50s.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Timpson said: “In Crewe and Nantwich there are a number of veterans who were affected by the British testing of nuclear weapons in Australia and Christmas Island during the 1950s and 1960s.

“Will the Secretary of State tell the House what progress has been made, as part of the investigation into the health needs of those nuclear-test veterans, with the follow-up to the Rowland report on chromosomal damage, as the Ministry of Defence promised?”

Kevan Jones, Minister for Veterans, responded: “The British Nuclear Test Veterans Association has been meeting my officials to scope the study.

“We are now putting it out to tender, to ensure that we get a competent organisation to undertake it, and I will keep the House informed as that work goes on.”

Following the exchange, Mr Timpson added: “It seems bureaucracy is getting in the way of common sense.

"Many other countries, including the USA, recognise that they did wrong by their nuclear test veterans and have compensated them properly.

"The radiation injuries these men have suffered are just as important as combat wounds suffered in Afghanistan or Iraq today, and should finally be recognised.

"How much longer do they have to wait?"

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

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Nantwich MP Timpson applauds Territorial Army climb-down

Nantwichnews

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has applauded the Government climb-down over plans to drastically cut training for the Territorial Army.

The Government announced in October that weekly and monthly TA training would be cut by £20 million – wiping out training for tens of thousands of Territorials.

But after sustained public and political pressure, the plans were scrapped.

Mr Timpson said: “Our reserves need all the support they can get, both in terms of training and equipment.

“We should not send a single soldier into battle if we cannot say that everything possible has been done to prepare them.

“Why would any young man or woman walk in to our local TA office if they are not absolutely confident that their Government supports them 100%?”

Since 2002, 20,000 reservists have seen active service in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Balkans, most of them from the TA.

Fourteen Territorials have died and 550 Territorials are currently serving on the front-line in Afghanistan.

Cuts over the last 12 years have seen TA numbers fall from 57,000 to 35,000.

© Nantwichnews Blog

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MP Welcomes School Shake-Up Plans

Crewe and Nantwich Guardian

CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson has responded enthusiastically to plans outlined by Shadow Children's Secretary Michael Gove, to reform the schools system.

The plans aim to give every child the kind of education currently only available to the well-off, by recruiting the brightest young people into teaching, and giving power back to head teachers.

Mr Timpson said: "In my work as MP I have met many very talented teachers here in Cheshire who often find themselves drowning under rules and regulations.

"We need to give power back to the head teachers to set their own agendas depending on what is best for their specific school."

© 2001-2009 Newsquest Media Group

5 ways to contact Edward Timpson

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

Crewe West Community Group Celebrate at Webby's

Crewe West Community Group plan to celebrate in style with a youth event and a grand day out for senior citizens.

Chairman Roy Cartlidge Says:
This BIG LOTTERY grant of £9,958 will be used to bridge the generation gap this type of project has been consulted upon and we will deliver activities like, days out and youth activities along with IT training and a whole host of other things to do.

The RSPACE the youth project will provide funding for a youth worker and Street Sports development using existing community facilities like Webby's Community Centre and improved open space provision on and near the Frank Webb Avenue MUGGA.

ON THE GO the Senior Citizens project will provide day trips to local and regional attractions to get their batteries re-charged and see more of the great outdoors.

Without the help and dedication and hard work put in by the committee members, council officers we would not be celebrating this award
And a big thanks to them all and our joy will be shared with the rest of the community and on their behalf a really big thank you to the Big Lottery Fund!

Students benefit from learning fund

Reaseheath College



Local Reaseheath College students are making the most of their studies thanks to a fund set up to encourage lifelong learning.

Engineer Malcolm Bourne, 50, and adventure sports students Lee Chapman, 23 and Bradley Carroll, 16, and, are among those benefiting from financial support from the Lifelong Learning Fund, a £10,000 pot of money set up to help Reaseheath students from Crewe and Nantwich who are studying for a formal qualification this year.

The fund was the brainchild of Councillor Brian Silvester, Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council and Mayor of the former Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council. One of his last gestures in office was to hand over a £5,000 grant which has been doubled by Reaseheath College and could help up to 50 students. Those who meet criteria can claim up to £200 for essential expenses.

Malcolm, from Nantwich, is a former meat inspector now aiming to run his own business restoring classic tractors and vehicles. He has used his grant to buy necessary clothing such as safety boots and overalls.

He said: “Coming to Reaseheath has been the chance of a lifetime. I’ve always wanted to learn more about engineering and I’m loving the course. But I’m on a fairly tight budget and I’ve found the funding very useful.”

Crewe residents Lee and Bradley, who are both studying for their National Certificate in Adventure Sport, have used their grants to meet expenses for a residential course in Anglesey.

Lee, who wants a new career as a climbing and kayaking instructor after being made redundant, said: “We’re doing an assignment based on what we learned on the residential course. It would have been really difficult for me because I wouldn’t have been able to go if I hadn’t received the grant.”

Bradley, who is considering going on to university, added: “The residential course is important because you learn about working as a team in different situations. The grant was really useful because otherwise I would have struggled to meet the costs.”

Congratulating the students, Councillor Silvester said: I am delighted that the Lifelong Learning Fund has assisted local people of all ages to realise their ambitions here. Reaseheath is a very successful college and we are privileged to have learning establishments like this in our area.”

Reaseheath Principal Meredydd David said: “Our students have been extremely pleased to receive these grants. We have been very fortunate that the funding has been made available by Councillor Silvester as it has enabled them to access top quality specialist education and training.”

Caption: Councillor Brian Silvester and former Mayoress Sheila Davies meet Reaseheath Principal Meredydd David and students Lee Chapman, Malcolm Bourne and Bradley Carroll

Meet your MP

I caught up with our MP in town today out and about greeting and talking to the people of Crewe who elected him. Its nice to see a man of the people willing to come and meet people in the street. He does of coarse have an office in town and he hold regular surgeries if you need his help

West St Finished at last

At last West St is finished apart from minor repairs. The grand new railway seat is now in place to of Rigg St. It seems such a strange place to put it it would have been better on the square were it would be seen more and get more usage. It must have cost a lot of money some say £10,000. We will see how long it last before its recked or there are complaints from the houses next to it.

“De-Frost – Don’t De-Part!”

As the first frosts of the winter arrive, Cheshire Police are keen to get off to a head start in combating a crime trend associated with the cold weather
Detective Chief Inspector Darren Hebden, Strategic Lead for Vehicle Crime in the force is promoting the following message about a crime with a sting in the tail….
“Christmas may come early for criminals who use the cold weather to steal cars. The arrival of frost- filled mornings normally brings a series of "De-frosting" thefts. Thieves target cars which have been left with their engines running to defrost the windscreens.
“For years opportunist thieves have been seizing the opportunity to steal cars whenever they are left unattended for a few minutes - whether from petrol station forecourts or outside schools and shops. Now they have caught on to the idea of nipping in while motorists try to multi task and save time in the mornings. As the driver pops into the house for a quick cup of tea or to grab a packed lunch, leaving the car engine running, the thief makes off with the vehicle, complete with keys.
“The moral of this one is obvious. Never leave keys in the ignition and doors unlocked when your car is unattended, even if it is only for a couple of minutes and the vehicle is sitting on your own driveway!
“We always urge drivers to be sensible and defrost their screens before moving off, because driving with only a few inches of the windscreen clear is dangerous.
“The sensible approach is to build in extra preparation time to allow the car to defrost and for you to stay with the vehicle while it warms up. Alternatively, use a de-icer spray and windscreen scraper.
“Any solution which involves leaving the car and the keys unattended should be avoided at all costs. The consequences of losing your car in this way could be more far reaching than most people realize.
“When making an insurance claim in a situation where a driver has left a vehicle unattended insurers may argue that reasonable care has not been taken. This invalidates the claim. Victims are then faced with the loss of their vehicle with no means of replacement, even though they are fully insured.”

War Memorial

The plaque has been restored to the War memorial with new names added and is now ready for Sunday. The parade starts at 10:35 in Chester St and the service starts at 10:50 at the memorial

War Memorial Panic

I was up town today and there was a commotion by the war memorial as several old soldiers were shocked to see a name plaque missing from the memorial. It did look as if it had been stolen like the ones reported in Manchester. A quick phone call to Brian Silvester and after a quick inquiry it appears it has been taken away to have names added ready for Sunday so panic over. The old soldiers can relax its all safe and will be back in time for Sunday




In the same area its now seems they have repaired the steps that the old lady lady smashed in April its taken all this time to get this repair done 8 Months for a simple repair

Another Pub Going?

A trip down Alton St and I saw the Rockwood is up for sale. Its been there for over 40 years is this going to be the end? Crewe will have no pubs left the way we are going



While I was down there I took some snaps of Valley Park in its Autumn glory.Autumn is on us with a vengeance now and winter is just around the corner

STUDENTS BOOSTED BY MAYOR’S LEARNING FUND

Students at South Cheshire College are over the moon after receiving cash grants from a Learner Support Fund to help them with their studies.

Up to 50 students have benefited from the Mayor’s Learning Fund which was set up by former college student Brian Silvester, Deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council and the former Mayor of Crewe & Nantwich Borough Council.

Councillor Silvester donated £5,000 from his Mayor’s Learning Fund to the high-flying college in the summer to help students meet the financial costs of further education.

South Cheshire College Principal Peter Swift then matched that figure to swell the pot to £10,000 and students have snapped up grants of up to £200 to help them on a whole range of college courses.

The fund has now been used up and many students are delighted with their cash bonuses which have helped them to pay for course fees, transport costs or materials for their programmes of study.

During his year as Mayor in 2008/9 of the former Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, Councillor Silvester chose Lifelong Learning as his theme and was delighted to hand over the cash to help current students.

Students needed to be resident within the boundaries of the former Crewe and Nantwich Borough and be undertaking a course during the 2009/2010 academic year, which leads to a formal qualification or the awarding of a certificate, to qualify for the grants.

Mature student Dave Graham was thrilled to benefit from the Fund which has allowed him to stay on at college for another year and edge him a step closer to part time work in the restaurant business.

Dave, 59, of Aston near Nantwich, said: “I’ve already studied Pro Chef courses at NVQ Levels 2 and 3 but the Learner Support Fund has helped me to stay on at college and develop my skills on a Level 3 Patisserie and Confectionary course.
2

“The cost of this latest course was around £750 so a grant of £200 has taken a massive chunk off the fee for me and I’m very grateful.

“I love the College and studying this new course is helping me to prepare and serve deserts and builds on what I’ve learnt so far.”

Mother-of-two Laura Healy is studying a Book-keeping and Accounts City & Guilds course at college.

Laura, 49, of Crewe, said: “I found out about the Fund and realised I was eligible for it. I have two children to look after so this has been a big help.”

Anna Baranowska, an NVQ Level 2 hairdressing student, has also benefited from a £200 cash grant.

Anna, 29, of Crewe, said: “I’m very happy with the cash grant because I wanted to come to college to improve my skills.

“I think it’s excellent that students have been helped in this way and I’m sure it has encouraged many people like myself to sign up for courses. The college is very friendly and I’m enjoying my time here.”

Councillor Silvester said: “Lifelong Learning is a cause close to my heart.
Cost can sometimes stand in the way but hopefully these grants have helped local people to realise their ambitions and fulfill their learning potential.

"I would like to thank all those who worked so hard to raise funds for this very worthwhile cause."

Peter Swift said: "We were very grateful to receive cash from the Mayor’s Learning Fund and were pleased to be able to add to it.

“The money has now been fully utilised by students from different backgrounds and from a number of courses across the college.

“Cash incentives like this, which encourage students to come to college to further their education, can only be extremely positive for the college and local community and we are very pleased that our students have benefited from the grants.”

The fund has also helped to establish a Scholarship scheme for people wishing to study for a degree at Manchester Metropolitan University's Crewe campus.

Councillor Silvester added: ""As a former mature student who completed several courses at the College, I was delighted to able to give something back to today's students of all ages.

"We are very fortunate to have one of the best Colleges in the country in Crewe. The staff and governors who have been responsible for this long term success deserve to be congratulated.”

For further information about courses at South Cheshire College please call 01270 654654 or visit www.s-cheshire.ac.uk

Queens Park Meeting

The first meeting of the Friends of Queens Park took place last week with a walk around the park behind the barriers to see how work was progressing. The new contractor is pressing ahead with great speed.
As you can see all the walls around Burma Island have been removed ready to be rebuilt. All the islands are having all there walls rebuilt as they are giving way. We saw the preparation for the new wooden bridges under way and they should be on site January-Febuary next year with the lake open by March next year
For more detail see our main Queens Park website

The friends of Queens Park now takes over from the Stakeholders and will look after the park in the future. Anyone can join and take part their constitution is set out below

FRIENDS OF THE PARK QUEENS PARK FRIENDS GROUP CONSTITUTION 2009
1. Name
The Name of the Friends of the Park group shall be 'Friends of Queens Park', hereinafter called "The Friends of the Park .

2. Aims and Objectives
To promote the restoration (i,) capturing Queens Park's Victorian splendour, conservation and enhancement of Queens Park in Crewe, for the benefit of residents, visitors, wildlife and fish.
(i) 2009 - Following a lengthy period of development and planning the Heritage Lottery Supported Queens Park Project is underway. The Project Team has been assembled including architectural and engineering consultancies to complement the Landscape Architectural practice Bertram Hyde and Quantity Surveyors EMB Consultants. The practices selected are SBS Architects and the engineers are Scott Hughes Design, both are Manchester based.
To encourage and facilitate greater free access, use of facilities and enjoyment of Queens Park by all. In pursuance of this aim the Friends of the Park group will seek to:
a) ensure that any changes are sustainable and respect Queens Park's heritage and distinctiveness,
b) represent the views of the residents of Crewe and other regions of the Cheshire East Council, in matters concerning the Park,
c) form links and work co-operatively with the Council, businesses, community groups, charities, schools and other appropriate organisations, so that the park may best serve the local community,
d) organise, host and fund events and activities within or associated with Queens Park,
e) compliment other projects moving forward in Cheshire East.
The Friends of the Park group shall be non-political and non-sectarian, and shall operate without distinction of gender, ethnic background, age, disability, sexuality, or religious, cultural or political beliefs.

3. Area of Benefit
The area of benefit of the Friends of the Park shall be the area known as Cheshire East.

4. Powers
The Friends of the Park group, through its Committee may exercise any necessary powers to do all such other lawful things as are necessary for the achievement of the above aims and objectives subject to the consent of Cheshire East Council as 'caretakers' of Queens Park.

5. Membership
Membership shall be open (without distinction of gender, ethnic background, age, disability, sexuality or religion, cultural, or political beliefs) to those interested in furthering the aims and objectives of the Friends of the Park, provided that they have completed an application form and have paid the appropriate subscription fee.
Membership shall be valid for the period of one calendar year from the beginning of April. No membership fees apply.
All categories of membership shall be entitled to cast one vote. The Chairman may utilise a casting vote should it be required.
The Committee shall have the right, for good and sufficient reason, to exclude from membership an individual member, provided that the member shall have the right to be heard by the Committee before such a decision is confirmed.

6 The Committee
The Committee shall consist of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Parks Manager and any other such Officers as the Friends of the Park group may from time to time decide.
The Committee shall total no less than 3 and not more than 16 members including two members of the Youth Council.
a) The Officers and members of the Committee will be elected until the next AGM. They will be eligible for re-election.
c) The Committee may appoint one, or more sub-committees or working
parties and refer any part of its business to them.
d) The Committee shall have the power to fill any vacancies that may arise during its year of office by co-opting additional members.
d) A member of the Committee shall cease to hold office if absent, conseceteviley on three occasions, without the permission of the Committee, from all of their meetings held within a period of six months, or notifies the Committee of their resignation in writing.
e) A Committee member (including officers) may be removed from office before an AGM if two thirds of the Committee support a proposal of "no confidence" against the member, at a meeting of the Committee.

7 Committee Meetings
a) The Committee shall hold at least six meetings each year i.e. approx. 8 week intervals. A special meeting may be called at any time by the Chairperson or by any four members of the Committee, upon not less than four days notice being given to other members of the Committee, of the matters to be discussed.
b) At a Friends of the Park meeting the quorum shall be a minimum of 3 and include at least 1 Officer.
c) In the event that both the Chairperson and any Vice-Chair are absent from a Friends of the Park meeting, the Committee shall elect a temporary Chairperson.
d) Minutes of all meetings shall be kept by the Parks Manager and be available for inspection by members of the Friends of the Park group.
e) Any member of other Queens Park associated committees may attend the meetings of the Committee as an observer.
f) The Committee may, for a specific purpose, invite any individuals outside the Friends of the Park group to attend a meeting.

8 General Meetings
At least 14 days written notice shall be given of the date, time, venue and agenda of Annual General Meetings. At least 7 days written notice shall be given of the date, time, venue and agenda of General Meetings. Non-receipt of a notice shall not invalidate a properly called meeting.
a) An Annual General Meeting shall be held each year in the month of June or as soon as practicable thereafter, but no more than 15 months must elapse between one Annual General Meeting and the next. The business of the meeting shall include
i) The election of Officers and Committee,
ii) The presentation of the annual report of the Committee,
b) Extraordinary General meetings may be convened at any time at the discretion of the Friends of the Park or at the request of at least 12 members of the Friends of the Park, in writing, to the Parks Manager of the group, giving details of the reason(s) for calling the meeting together with copies of any motions to be discussed.
c) The quorum for all General Meetings shall be 12 persons including a minimum of 6 members of the Friends group, including 1 Officer.
d) Any member of the public and/or press, may attend General Meetings as an observer.

9 Voting
a) Every Member of the Friends of the Park group has one vote at General Meetings.
b) Only Friends of the Park group members shall be eligible to vote at any meeting.
c) In the event of an equality in voting, the Chairperson may cast a second deciding vote.
d) When, in the opinion of the Chairperson, it is necessary for a vote to be taken at any meeting, this may be taken by a show of hands or by secret ballot at the Chairperson's discretion.

10 Finance
The Friends of the Park group shall be able to receive, without favour, donations, gifts or contributions and empower the Committee to raise funds by legal means.
a) All monies received shall be paid in to a Cheshire East holding account in the name of the Friends of the Park group. The Queens Park Manager shall be authorised to release funds as requested by the Chairman on behalf of the Friends of the Park group.
b) All monies raised by or on behalf of the Friends of the Park group shall be applied to further the objectives of the Friends of the Park group and may be used to meet the cost of agreed projects and activities.
c) The Parks Manager shall report on the state of the Friends of the Parks group finances at each Committee meeting and all transactions shall be made available for inspection.
St St
e) The financial year shall be from April 1 to March 31 . At the end of each financial year, the accounts shall be prepared, certified and presented at the next AGM.
f) If the Friends of the Park group is dissolved, any surplus funds should be given to Cheshire East Council for expenditure with regards to Queens Park, in-line with the Aims and Objects of the Friends of the Park group.

11 Interpretation of Constitution
In all matters of dispute on the interpretation of this Constitution or on all matters on which the Constitution is silent, the Friends of the Parks group decision shall be final.

12 Dissolution
The Friends of the Park group may at any time be dissolved by a resolution passed by a majority of two thirds of those present and voting, at a General Meeting of which at least fourteen days notice shall have been given, specifying that this is the purpose of the meeting.

13 Amendments to the Constitution
This Constitution may be amended in any respect (other than this clause) by a resolution passed by two thirds of the members present and entitled to vote at any General Meeting of the Friends of the Park group.
Notice of any proposed amendment must be communicated to the Queens Park Manager in writing at least fourteen days before the meeting at which the proposal is to be moved. Notice, in writing, of these proposals shall be sent to members not less than seven days before the meeting.

Goddard St Flats

The new flats which are being built in Goddards St seem to have fallen to the credit crunch. No work has been done for months and now they are being slowly vandalized with broken windows etc. Some of them have no roofs on and other are half built. All thats happening is that pigeons are moving in to the glorious coup