RAINWORTH MW will be hoping to make it third time lucky when they begin their FA Trophy campaign at home to Southern League Central outfit Leighton Town today.

The Evo-Stik NPL Division One South club will be making their third attempt at progress in the competition after falling at the first hurdle in their two previous tries since promotion from the Northern Counties East League.

And the tie will represent another chance to earn some FA competition prize money, after the disappointment of missing out in Wednesday night's FA Cup replay at neighbours Carlton Town.

The Wrens had led 1-0 at the break from Callum Lloyd's early candidate for 'goal of the season', but missed numerous more chances and let the tie slip from their grasp in the second half to lose 3-1.

The tie turned on Carlton striker Ruben Wiggins-Thomas's equaliser early in the second half, when he was allowed to escape the attentions of three defenders.

Manager Kevin Gee said: "Up to that point we never looked in any danger and I thought we were going to get two or three more ourselves.

"But one striker gets the better of three defenders in one go, it's 1-1 and Carlton are given the extra impetus.

"That's now three times this season when we have lost a game which on balance of play and chances created we should have won comfortably.

"Carlton will be there or thereabouts again this season, and we have matched them over two games.

"But we would have had to score four goals to beat them and against a side like Carlton that's a huge ask.

"Last season we made ourselves hard to beat, this year we are competing and creating, but we are not rounding it off.

"If that means we have to bring in one or two more players then so be it."

Gee has secured the signature of Hucknall Town striker Karl Slack, although he will not be available for the FA Trophy tie.

Gee said: "Karl's a good player, he gets goals, he works defences, and he will be available when we return to bread and butter league action next week."

"I'm also looking to add one more front man and to add another central defender."

Looking forward to the Trophy tie, Gee added: "Financially it's a big game for us after missing out on £3,000 in the Cup, so we need to be at our best to win it."

JAKE Speight is quick to bat off any suggestions that Mansfield Town are a one-dimensional side, a one-trick pony, a team of brawn and no brains.

After a shaky start to the campaign, Stags boss Paul Cox was quick to demand his side got back to being hard-to-beat, to win ugly if need be.

He wanted them back to the force that looked unstoppable last season, as they surged up to finish third in the Blue Square Premier.

But after a mixed start, with four wins and four defeats, fingers have been pointed about how Mansfield look to rely too much on being a direct side, with the imposing figure of Matt Rhead leading the line.

Add to that bringing back Exodus Geohaghon and his long throw-ins that cause all sorts of trouble, it has added fuel to the fire.

But there is also a feeling that had Mansfield turned a couple of those defeats into wins, there would have been few complaints.

So as Stags prepare to take on Braintree on their home patch this afternoon, Speight is in no doubt about the quality of winning football Mansfield are capable of.

With Matt Green suspended, he could line-up alongside Rhead for only his second start since rejoining the club in a summer move from Wrexham.

He has netted three goals in six substitute appearances but believes with a run in the side, he can be prolific in front of goal, no matter who he plays alongside.

"I played in a team last season where we used the long throw a lot and it is effective at this level if used properly," said Speight.

"We have players in this squad that allows us to go direct and players, like Chris Clements, Gary Roberts, Adam Murray, who are total football players.

"It is not a case of being direct. Against some teams, you have to be and against others, you play football and pass it.

"We have the players to do both, which is good to have. Personally, I don't mind how we play. I am here to score goals so as long as I get chances, I am happy."

Green was sent off in the first half of last weekend's 3-1 defeat at Ebbsfleet for an alleged elbow.

Speight felt sympathy but is now determined to make the most of the opportunity.

And when Green does return, Speight feels he is more than capable of forming a lethal partnership with him or any other striker at the club.

"It is a long season and that is football," said the striker. "You have injuries and suspensions and it sets you back. That is how it works out.

"Greeny was unlucky and that is not in his make-up. Their defender was throwing his arms into him and Rheady.

"Rheady is a strong boy and people will try to get under his skin but he is so effective for us, he can handle it.

"I can play off him and I have played in games with Greeny too, so we have the players to do whatever scenario the manager wants to go with.

"Me and Greeny have enough about us to play together and link up well."

As for the start to the season, Speight added: "You look at the games and goals we conceded and we should have had more points. But there is a long way to go.

"I have settled in well since coming back so I am happy but we are still not far away from the top. It is a funny league and every team on their day can beat anybody."

A NOTTINGHAM firefighter is planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to say thank you to a charity that helped his daughter.

Richard Lord, who works at Stockhill fire station, will tackle the challenge in January next year in aid of the Ear Foundation.

His seven-year-old daughter Phoebe was born profoundly deaf and had a cochlear implant when she was just 15 months old.

Richard says: "Phoebe was born on Christmas Day 2004 and we found out that she was deaf at six weeks. The Ear Foundation has been a constant support for the whole family since.

"We had no experience of deafness when Phoebe was born and we are on a long journey of learning and adapting.

"Phoebe is doing amazingly well. She attends mainstream school and has great speech but we never forget that she does not have natural hearing and she still struggles in many environments. As she goes through school and beyond there are always going to be challenges for her.

"The work that the Ear Foundation does is so valuable in supporting deaf children and their families and providing education for professionals that work with children like Phoebe so that they can make the most out of this amazing technology."

He will be joined on the trek by Deborah Hall, director at the National Institute for Health Research's hearing research unit in Nottingham.

Deborah has worked closely with the Ear Foundation team. She said: "I've seen what a difference their work makes."

The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,895 metres (19,340 feet). It is the highest free standing mountain in the world, the highest point in Africa and approximately five times the height of Ben Nevis, the highest point in Britain.

Mrs Hall has previously trekked the Himalayas. She said: "Kilimanjaro is 479 metres higher than I have ever walked before, which will be an exciting challenge and what better reason for taking on this enormous feat than to raise money for such a good cause?"

The challenge is organised by Destiny of a Child, a charity which supports cochlear implantation for profoundly deaf children and physically disabled children and Aids orphans.

To sponsor Richard or Deborah go to www.justgiving.com/Lordyskiliclimb or www.justgiving.com/ DebHall-supportingTheEarFoundation

CYCLISTS in Long Eaton are set to benefit from a £150,000 project which will see a major route resurfaced.

Work has already begun on revamping a section of the National Cycle Route 6 in West Park.

The development comes after a number of cyclists using the route were asked for their opinions on the path and said they would like to see it re-laid.

Geoff Smith, Erewash Borough Council's lead member for regeneration and planning, said: "This major work is a clear example of our commitment to improving transport networks by investing in the cycling network and sustainable transport.

"It is also part of our wider mission to encourage healthier and safer lifestyles.

"We are thrilled to have won the funding and I am confident that the many, many cyclists who ride through West Park will be very happy with the new pathway once it is completed."

The borough council successfully won funding for the project from the Greater Nottingham Growth Point, a partnership of local authorities working to improve the environment and transport infrastructure for local communities.

Work started at the beginning of September on the path which runs through the park from Parkside Avenue to Broad Street.

Additional resurfacing will also take place on sections of paths well used by cyclists – including the link to King Street and West Park Leisure Centre.

Work is expected to take around six weeks to complete, but is phased to minimise disruption and maintain safe access through West Park while it is being carried out.

The work is part of the council's wider Long Eaton Growth Point programme, which aims to deliver sustainable transport projects in the town.

It is linked to the Townscape Heritage Initiative which continues to drive forward environmental improvements to help regenerate the town.

The National Cycle Network Route 6 runs from London along 410 miles up the country to finish near Keswick in Cumbria.

A part of the route travels between Nottingham and Derby, running through Long Eaton, Attenborough, Beeston, the city centre before continuing north through Hucknall and Ravenshead towards Worksop.

THE community of Hucknall has pulled together to set up a trust fund for the children of a 33-year-old mum who died from a heart attack.

Maria Butler had taken her daughter Georgie, 13, and son Harry, 10, who both suffer from learning difficulties, on a holiday to Marmaris in Turkey in August.

Miss Butler, who was a full-time carer to her children, died unexpectedly of a heart attack and was flown back to the UK earlier this month.

Now residents have helped to organise a fun day to be held in Hucknall tomorrow to raise at least £1,000 for a trust fund for Georgie and Harry.

Grandma Margaret Butler, 70, of Charles Street, Hucknall, is now looking after the youngsters with her husband Malcolm, 70.

She said she was touched by the community's effort to help the family and added: "I didn't used to like Hucknall but this has really opened my eyes.

"Everyone has been absolutely brilliant.

"It's a wonderful community and I have a lot of people to thank.

"I am looking forward to tomorrow's event.

"Georgie and Harry are just the best. They are so loveable.

"They understand their mummy has died but I can't really tell how they're coping with it – they don't talk about it much.

"There is a photo of their mum in their bedroom and I caught Georgie the other night giving it a good hug and a kiss."

Miss Butler's sister, Jackie Fisher, of Mansfield, said: "This is a terrible tragedy and it's so hard for us as a family.

"I feel like if I stop for one minute, I will break down.

"Maria has been an amazing mum and I have always admired her for it.

"I know my parents will do everything they can for the kids, but should there be an emergency, they could be stretched for cash.

"They're both receiving their pensions, so aren't entitled to carers' allowance.

"I can't thank everyone enough who is involved in tomorrow's event.

"The people of Hucknall have been amazing."

Nick Smith, 33, of Charles Street, Hucknall, who has known the family for more than 20 years, has been leading the organisation of tomorrow's event, which will be held at the Red Lion pub in High Street, from 12pm until last orders at around 11pm.

He said around 110 people had already confirmed their attendance and another 70 said they might turn up.

"Everyone has pulled together to put this together," he added.

The free event will include a bouncy castles, face painting, a barbecue, a silent auction to win an Acer tablet computer device worth £400, as well as a raffle to win a new power shower with free fitting worth £600 and many other prizes.

Local band Stage Fright will be playing live at the event and have donated their time for free.

For more information, contact Mr Smith on 07828 108 223 or e-mail him at nick.smith79@hotmail.co.uk.

RUNNERS who took part in this year's Race for Life events in Nottingham are being urged to send their sponsorship money in.

Last year a third of the women who took part in the event, which is run in aid of Cancer Research UK, did not pay any sponsorship money in.

Over 8,500 women took part in events in Nottingham this year – 5,691 at the Victoria Embankment in June and 2,873 at Holme Pierrepont in August.

But organisers say there are still many who have not yet paid in any sponsor money.

A Cancer Research spokeswoman said: "Many don't realise that their entry fee only covers the cost of the event.

"It's the sponsorship money that really makes a difference. Cancer Research UK relies on money raised through Race for Life to fund life-saving research."

Among those who took part in the Nottingham events this year are The Nuffield Stars – a team of workers from the Nuffield Health and Wellbeing Centre, who raced in memory of friends, family and work colleagues who have been or are going through treatment for cancer. They are urging anyone who has yet to return their sponsorship money to do it as soon as possible.

Team leader Nicki Moulds, 28, of West Bridgford, said: "We were inspired to sign up as a way of getting fitter and showing our support for our colleagues who have been touched by cancer.

"So many people are touched by the disease and we wanted to do something positive to help support Cancer Research UK's life-saving work. Together, we have raised over £3,400 for Cancer Research UK's life-saving work. Our friends, family and colleagues were extremely generous."

Katie Browning, Race for Life event manager for the East Midlands, said: "Both Race for Life events in Nottingham were fantastic. We want to say a heart-felt thanks to everyone who took part or supported our participants, as well as the wonderful volunteers who helped make it happen. Now the big day is over, we are asking our supporters to take one last step by returning the money they have raised so that we can go on funding much-needed research.

"Last year, a third of the women who took part didn't return sponsorship money. Without this money,

''Race for Life can't fund all the research that's needed to help save more lives.

"As the number of people diagnosed with cancer in the East Midlands continues to rise, and the economy tightens, we need the support of local people now more than ever.

"So, whatever the amount, we're asking everyone to make every effort to return their sponsorship money as soon as possible. It can be paid in online, by phone or by cheque."

For more information on returning money, or to make a donation, visit www.raceforlife.org

MUHAMMED Basit, 26, of Glentworth Road, Radford, was fined £180 by Nottingham Magistrates' Court after pleading guilty to driving a Skoda in Carrington Street, Nottingham, while using a mobile phone on May 11. He must pay a victim surcharge of £15 and costs of £35. Three points will go on his driving licence.

HYLTON Foreman, 46, of Shortwood Close, Nottingham, has been accused of driving a street cleaning vehicle without due care and attention. The offence allegedly happened at Colwick level crossing on March 24. The case was adjourned by magistrates in Nottingham until October 4.

KINGSLEY McPherson, 19, of Corncrake Avenue, Old Basford, has been accused of theft and criminal damage. He allegedly stole a Samsung Galaxy mobile, worth £40, in Top Valley on September 4, and damaged a bedroom door lock on September 3. His trial is set for Nottingham Magistrates' Court on November 14 at 2pm. He is on conditional bail.

PAUL O'Brien, 44, of Birklands Avenue, New Ollerton, pleaded guilty to two offences. He drove a Ford Focus in Whitewater Road, New Ollerton, with no insurance or driving licence on February 8. He was granted bail at Nottingham Magistrates' Court. The case will be listed again on November 16.

AMANDA Jensen, 38, of Bestwood Lodge Drive, Arnold, received a community order at Nottingham Magistrates' Court. She pleaded guilty to damaging a Mercedes-Benz Vito van, worth £1,000. This offence of criminal damage happened on July 8. Jensen will be supervised by the probation service for six months.

CHEYENNE Robinson, 47, of Sketchley Street, St Ann's, was found guilty of stealing perfume from Debenhams, Nottingham, in June. Nottingham Magistrates' Court heard the perfume was worth £132. Robinson, who denied the allegation, was sent to prison for 120 days. He had a terrible record for dishonesty, the court heard. More than 80 days spent in custody on remand should count toward his overall sentence as time served.

BRETT Taylor, 33, of Peatfield Road, Stapleford, admitted assaulting a man in Stapleford on August 21 this year. Magistrates in Nottingham granted him conditional bail to appear at court again on September 21.

MARK Jordan, 35, of Oak Acres, Chilwell, denied assaulting a man in Chilwell on July 23. Magistrates in Nottingham granted him conditional bail. His next court hearing is on November 16.

KIERAN Sheargold, 18, of Brook Gardens, Arnold, denied being drunk and disorderly in the Front Street and Smithy Crescent area, in Arnold, on August 25. He denied using threatening, abusive words or behaviour at Bridewell Police Station, Nottingham, on the same date. Sheargold was granted bail until November 22.

JEROME Banton, 27,of Wendover Drive, Aspley, has been ordered to pay £500 compensation to a man he assaulted. Magistrates in Nottingham heard how he attacked his victim in Gedling in May. The offence, which he admitted, happened the day after he was given a conditional discharge for assault. After pleading guilty to the latest assault, he was given a six-week jail term, suspended for 12 months. Banton is subject to a curfew for three months, will be tagged and has to carry out 100 hours' community work. He received a consecutive four-week suspended sentence for the previous assault.

AS the double-decker bus drove in to Old Market Square, the crowd roared.

Standing on the top deck was Lowdham athlete Richard Whitehead who struck gold in the 200m T42 at the London 2012 Paralympics – setting a world record in the process.

Among the hundreds who turned out to his homecoming ceremony in the square yesterday was Cath Conley, 33, of Kimberley, and her daughter, Hannah, 3.

"We're both very excited about seeing him," she said.

We went down to London for the Paralympics and Hannah has been really excited about it all ever since."

Mr Whitehead, who shook people's hands and gave several autographs at the square yesterday, also signed a union flag Hannah had brought to the event.

"She is so happy to have received his signature," Mrs Conley said.

"I feel a bit starstruck.

"The Olympics and Paralympics is such a big thing for the country and the athletes and it's nice to have been part of it."

Elaine Long, 50, from Newthorpe, also cheered as Mr Whitehead spoke to the crowds.

"All the Paralympians and Olympians have done brilliantly for the country," she said.

"I think the Olympics have brought out the best of Britain.

"Today's event has been very emotional. It's just all a bit overwhelming."

Lesley Sleath, 51, had travelled to the event from her home in Loughborough yesterday.

"We were lucky to be at the front, so I got him to sign a photograph my husband took of him crossing the finishing line.

"I am so chuffed and will probably frame the photo. It's such an honour.

"He really deserves everything he got over the summer."

Mr Whitehead's tour made stops in Lowdham, Radcliffe-on-Trent and West Bridgford, where he was greeted by Notts County Council leader Kay Cutts and the council's vice-chairman, Councillor Barrie Cooper, before arriving in the city.

Councillor Cutts said: "We are delighted to be supporting this open-top tour for Richard Whitehead who is a fantastic ambassador for us all following his fantastic performances at London 2012."

Mr Whitehead has already had a postbox painted gold in his home village of Lowdham as a tribute by Royal Mail.

The county council is also hosting a civic reception for all local members of Team GB, officials and coaches, at Trent Bridge on Tuesday, October 9.

NOTTS County can do a QPR, says boss Keith Curle.

Curle was No.2 to ex-Magpies' boss Neil Warnock when Queens Park Rangers topped the Championship for ages two seasons ago and won promotion into the Premier League.

He has now led Notts to the top of League One in the first five games of this season – and is confident they can stay there.

After winning four times already, against Crewe, Hartlepool United, Bury and Shrewsbury Town, Curle says his players are oozing confidence ahead of facing Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park today.

The Magpies could equal a 41-year-old club record of ten away league games unbeaten if they avoid defeat against the Latics – and Curle insists they are ready to rewrite the history books.

"Our preparation has gone well and as you can imagine the lads are buzzing," he said.

"There is a buoyancy around the place, which is to be expected.

"Some people are sometimes a little bit fearful of being successful, but I enjoy it, I thrive on it.

"I was lucky enough to be at QPR when we were top from the first game of the season to the last, barring two weekends.

"There is an added pressure to being top because you're there to be shot at, which we had all season at QPR.

"But we never changed our planning, preparation and mentality going into every game, which is what we're trying to achieve here now.

"Those things have not changed this week because we're top – our preparation and planning has been exactly the same and we will go out with the same game plan, try to stop Oldham playing, nullify their strengths and try to exploit their weaknesses.

"The players are so focused on the next game, the next challenge, all of the time."

The Magpies are unbeaten in nine away league games under Curle, going all the way back to February.

The impressive run began in the first away game of his reign at Rochdale and Notts memorably thrashed Charlton Athletic 4-2 at The Valley in March – and the Addicks were top of League One and went on to win the title.

The Magpies also beat Leyton Orient 3-0 and scored two late goals to beat Wycombe Wanderers 4-3 away last season and have started this season by beating Crewe and Bury on the road.

The ten-game unbeaten record was set by Jimmy Sirrel's famous Division Four title-winning team of 1971, which included the likes of Don Masson and the club's all-time leading scorer Les Bradd.

Curle would love to equal it against Oldham and then top it at MK Dons on Tuesday night.

"It would be a great achievement for the players," he said.

"Hopefully we will go down in history – but the one stat that will really count is where we are at the end of the season."

While Notts are setting the pace at the top, one point clear of their nearest rivals Tranmere Rovers and Stevenage, Oldham have made an inconsistent start to the campaign.

They are 19th in the table with just four points from four games – and have not won on home soil.

Despite the contrast in form, Curle is not going to take them lightly and is expecting a battle against Paul Dickov's men.

"It's going to be very tough," he said.

"They have made an indifferent start, but I'm very mindful of the fact they will mirror their manager, so they will be tenacious, aggressive and willing to work hard.

"Paul was all of those things as a player.

"We will have to match them.

"I have the feeling it won't be the prettiest game, but it will be high energy and committed."

Curle has a big decision to make in attack because Lee Hughes came off the subs' bench and scored a late winner as the Magpies beat Shrewsbury 3-2 at Meadow Lane last Saturday.

It was his second goal in two games so he will be pushing for a start against the club he left to join Notts three years ago.

But Curle also has French striker Yoann Arquin and Enoch Showunmi at his disposal, so Hughes might have to settle for a place on the bench once again.

Whoever leads their attack, Curle believes the Magpies can claim a fifth league win.

"We're trying to create a winning mentality," he said.

"It's not being big-headed or over confident, but we want the players to believe they can win every game they compete in. It will be no different today."

A FORMER Royal Marines commando is on a mission to create some action in Nottingham.

Adam Collins left the Marines last year to pursue a career in acting.

After gaining parts in several independent films he has decided to take things into his own hands and make his own film from scratch.

Heart of Chaos tells a tale of corruption, secret societies, kidnap and murder, and it's all set in his home city.

Mr Collins, 27, said: "I wanted to do something a bit different.

"Nottingham has got people like Shane Meadows and This is England and that kind of thing but I wanted to bring something new and put Nottingham on the map as far as the film industry goes. No action films are ever made here.

"People always think they have to head to London or Manchester if they want to be in films, but there's lots of very talented people up here and I wanted to prove that."

Most of the filming for the film is already done but this weekend they will be shooting its main action sequence at a derelict warehouse in Basford.

He said: "We'll have gas canisters being blown up, people being set on fire, all sorts.

"We've got a pyrotechnics expert coming in and we've liaised with the police and fire service to make sure they know what we're doing," he added.

The film is self-funded, with Mr Collins estimating he has probably spent around £4,000 of his own money on it so far.

He wrote the plot and the script himself and has called in favours from friends at The Actors' Workshop in Nottingham to help.

He said: "It's all snowballed really. Since I left the Marines I have done several independent films and along the way I've met people that are really passionate about films and keen to help with what I'm doing.

"All the camera crew are people that I've worked with before."

Mr Collins, who grew up in Calverton and went to the Minster School in Southwell, says he has always been in to films but his passion for them blossomed when he worked as a stuntman before joining the Marines – after being spotted at a martial arts competition in Paris.

He said: "I've been into martial arts since I was a kid and competed for England. The stunt work followed on from that and I was lucky enough to appear in some big films including Batman Begins which was absolutely incredible.

"I played a ninja and was working with martial artists from all over the world. It was a fantastic experience as I was only 18."

Eventually the work dried up and the money ran out, so he decided to join the Marines but, unable to shake off his passion for film, he left last December after two tours of Afghanistan and a stint in Libya.

He hopes that Heart of Chaos will be complete by November and is hoping to screen its premiere at the Broadway Cinema with some of the proceeds going to Help for Heroes.

PARALYMPIC brothers Sam and Ollie Hynd were also being welcomed back by residents in Kirkby-in-Ashfield yesterday.

The ceremony was held at Kingsway Park between 5pm and 7pm to celebrate the success of the swimmers.

Sam, who has a form of muscular dystrophy like his brother Ollie, won gold in the 200m individual medley (SM8), silver in the 400m freestyle (S8) and bronze in the 100m backstroke (S8).

A postbox in the 17-year-old's home town of Kirkby-in-Ashfield was painted gold in his honour after he clinched first place in the 200m.

Yesterday's event, organised by Ashfield District Council, also celebrated local residents who have volunteered at the Olympics and Paralympics.

Residents also had the chance to see both the Olympic and Paralympic torches used in the national torch relays.

A range of free activities including wall climbing, cheerleading, crazy golf and play equipment for younger children, were also on offer.

Councillor Steve Carroll, portfolio holder for regeneration, culture and housing on the council, said: "We hope that it will have inspired more people to become active as part of the Olympic and Paralympic Games setting a lasting legacy in the Ashfield area."

THE last time Birmingham visited the City Ground, it proved to be something of a landmark moment.

Hundreds of protesters, a bad performance and a bad result led to a historic night in the history of the club.

Steve McClaren's managerial tenure was ended and Nigel Doughty stepped down as chairman, while putting the club up for sale.

Less than a year down the line, with the Blues set to return to Nottingham, things could hardly be more different.

Birmingham are the ones whose ownership and financial future is currently in question.

While Forest (and Notts County, for the matter – but more of that later) are flying high towards the right end of the table.

I can't promise that Sean O'Driscoll's side will win this afternoon. I suspect they will, given the way they are performing so far this season.

But I can tell you with absolute certainty that they will pose a far stiffer test to Birmingham than they did in 2011.

Because things are just so different now. Last season, when Dexter Blackstock got injured, Forest did not have a recognised, regular goal scorer to replace him with.

I have always been a big fan of Marcus Tudgay, for his honesty, drive and work rate – and because he is a solid Championship striker. But he is not a 20-goal-a-season man.

Today, Forest will go into the game with summer signing Simon Cox a slight injury doubt. He might be fit enough for the bench, but he is unlikely to start.

But, this year, that is hardly an issue. Because, while he is an outstanding player at this level, Forest have another one, waiting in the wings, to slot right into the side.

And that is the major difference this season.

While Sean O'Driscoll has introduced a fluid, flowing, entertaining brand of football, he has also built a squad with strength in depth.

It was no surprise when he said, prior to today's game, that Forest's shopping was done for the summer, despite the fact that clubs can sign loan players again now the window is open.

Personally, I might have considered bringing in an experienced defender, just to add a little cover in the back four.

But Forest can still do that in the future, if they do find themselves hampered by injuries or suspensions.

In the meantime, if Cox isn't fit enough for the starting line-up, Forest have Billy Sharp as a fall back option.

There are not many Championship clubs who can turn to a player of that quality to fill the void.

And his words this weekend have filled me with enthusiasm and admiration as well.

Regular readers of this column will know how much I detest players who are happy to sit on the bench or in the stands and just take their money.

But Sharp says he left Southampton precisely because he did not want to do that.

He was surprised to find out that he would be a peripheral figure with the Saints – and it comes as a shock to me as well, given that he is a natural goal scorer.

But Southampton's loss is Forest's gain and, with him on loan for the rest of the season – and Cox, Tudgay and Dexter Blackstock in the squad – O'Driscoll's side will not be short of goals this season.

Birmingham started the campaign as one of the favourites for promotion.

But, for me, with the additions they have made over the summer, Forest have a better chance of securing a place in the Premier League.

And we would not have said that a year ago.

Momentum counts for a lot in football and, having just missed out on the play-offs last season, I am not surprised to see Notts County flying high again this time around.

There is a long way to go this season, but make no mistake – the Magpies are proving they are capable of challenging for promotion.

Some people questioned the signings Keith Curle made during the summer, but his judgment looks to be solid so far.

It is great to see Notts sitting pretty at the top the of the table, prior to their trip to Oldham today.

Let's not get carried away if they do slip off the top spot, because a top-six finish would still be superb – and enough to give them a chance of Championship football.

But, if they keep winning at home and collecting points away, then they have a chance.

Wouldn't it be great to see both Nottingham clubs promoted this season?

Fingers crossed.

NOTTS County are a step closer to signing Jamaica international Damion Stewart, after loaning Krystian Pearce to Barnet.

Stewart, 32, has been training with the Magpies for two weeks since being released by Championship club Bristol City.

And boss Keith Curle says talks over a deal at Meadow Lane have now started.

Stewart spent four months on loan at Notts last season, playing 17 league games.

Curle also coached the centre-back at QPR and is confident a contract can be agreed.

"We're in negotiations with his agent at the minute to see if we can do a deal that suits everybody," said Curle.

"Damion has also got to change his work permit because he will be moving clubs, which should be straightforward.

"Hopefully we can strike a deal that falls within our salary limit."

Meanwhile, Pearce has joined Barnet, who are bottom of the Football League, on a three-month loan, after getting fit following a hernia operation in the summer.

But Curle insists he could still have a future at Meadow Lane.

"Krystian is match ready now so the next part of his progression is to play," he said.

"He can't force his way into our team at the moment, but we didn't want him to slip backwards so he's gone to Barnet.

"He needed to go out because playing in our development squad was not enough for him.

"We call on a lot of trialists in those games and they can be a bit unpredictable.

"Sometimes you get good competitive games and others times they can be a complete mismatch.

"We're going to keep a close eye on how he does.

"We've asked Barnet to send us a tape of every one of the games he plays in so we can analyse his performances.

"The door is not closed on him by any means."

A PUB manager cycled 300 miles to raise money to commemorate one of his regulars who died of cancer.

Andy Hunt, 33, manager of The Wollaton Pub and Kitchen, raised over £3,000 by cycling from Nottingham to Charing Cross Station in London and back.

The money went to Cancer Research and towards a memorial bench at the pub for customer Ron Watts.

Ron was just 57 when he died in March, after fighting skin cancer for over a year.

Andy said: "Ron had several tumours and one of them caused a stroke which led to his death. Because we knew him very well, it was sad to see him go."

The pub staff challenged Andy to go on the bike ride while they were discussing ideas on how to raise money for a memorial bench for the former soldier who lived in Wollaton. The epic 150-mile a day journey began last Friday at 7.15am.

There were a few hiccups along the way, including Andy's bike pedal falling off midway through the ride.

He also got lost in Newport Pagnell after losing both his map and phone. A local newsagent gave him a map and sent him on to Milton Keynes.

"It wasn't a stroll in the park, it was hard work," said Andy.

"There were no pay phones in Newport as they have all been removed, so I was very worried." The ride was also a psychological battle as Andy not only had to think about the route but also had to keep up a regular speed and make sure he was hydrated.

He said: "The weather was good but it was almost too good.

"On the way back the heat was on my back and it just was hard to cope with.

"Of course, that meant that I was getting dehydrated quite quickly and so I had to make more stops."

He made it back to Nottingham at 11.45pm on Saturday and enjoyed a fundraising charity night at the pub on Sunday.

Andy said: "I have always wanted to do this and when people saw my state, they gave more, which was really nice to see.

"I am still recovering from it and if I did it again, I would not put this much strain on my body."

Ron's wife, Stephanie Watts, 47, of Wollaton, had hoped to put up a bench in Wollaton Park in his memory but when the council did not allow this, she was pleased her local pub stepped in.

Stephanie said: "Andy and his team have been absolutely amazing in their support for me and my husband both during his illness and after he passed away.

"Last weekend was very emotional for me to see so many people contribute to Cancer Research and the memorial bench and Andy was a real star."

AN 84-year-old woman has told of her fear as police smashed through 6ft security gates at her home because a nurse was worried when she did not answer the door.

Valerie Taylor is demanding compensation for damage to the gates at her Silverdale bungalow. She was watching TV when she heard her phone ring, but did not answer.

Mrs Taylor said: "I heard 'bang, bang, bang', and looked out my window. There were two policemen with the big metal thing they use to ram things, and the community nurse and someone else.

"It upsets me just to think about it. To think they can do this, just presuming something is wrong with me."

The police were called by the nurse who visits Mrs Taylor to check her health. She called them after Mrs Taylor did not answer the door. Although she has had hip replacements and ischaemic attacks, which can be a prelude to a stroke, Mrs Taylor still does everything herself including shopping.

She said the nurse normally makes an appointment but claims nothing was arranged for the day of the incident on July 5. Mrs Taylor added: "I'm an old lady and I don't need things like this in my life. I'm thinking about moving back to Wales where I come from originally because of the stress."

She added she may not have heard the door bell because she had two doors closed between her and the front door.

Mrs Taylor wrote to Notts Police asking them to pay for repairing her gates.

But the force said she will get nothing because the officers forced entry in "good faith".

The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 allows police to enter homes when they believe it will save ''life or limb''. The law says they are not liable to pay for damage to doors or windows while breaking in.

Mrs Taylor says she still wants Notts Police or Nottingham City Care Partnership, which is in charge of the nurse, to pay. "It was such a frightening and frustrating experience," she added.

A spokeswoman for the care partnership said: "If our staff are concerned for the safety of a patient they will act appropriately to ensure they are safe and well, and if there are serious concerns for a patient's welfare this may include contacting police for support."

A police spokesman confirmed they went to the bungalow after a call from the nurse. They added: "An assessment was made as to how to get into the property safely and with the least amount of damage in order to check Mrs Taylor was safe and well. It was determined that the best route was via the gate.

"The legal services department has explained to her the reasons for its decision on the issue of payment for repair."

SEAN O'Driscoll today said Nottingham Forest's summer shopping spree is over.

The Reds boss has added 11 new signings to the dressing room since his appointment at the end of July.

But, while the loan window has opened again, O'Driscoll says there are no immediate plans to make further additions.

"I think we now have to concentrate on the team and the squad we have," said O'Driscoll.

"We have to look at the players who have not been involved.

"That is the measure of how good a squad you are – the quality of the training from the players who have not been involved.

"That has been terrific. To be fair, the players feel good, even the ones who have not been in the squad.

"There are players here who you look at and think 'you have been really unlucky not to be in the squad'.

"That is what you want. You are not going to keep people happy, but you can keep people motivated."

Forest have made some high profile additions, such as Henri Lansbury, Danny Collins, Simon Cox and Billy Sharp.

But O'Driscoll believes two of the lesser known signings – in the form of Simon Gillett and James Coppinger – could have a significant impact.

And he hinted that the biggest issue was persuading the club's ambitious new owners that the duo were worth pursuing.

"We needed some glue to pull us together. Bringing Simon in might not have been many people's first choice," said O'Driscoll.

"But he knows the way we work and he was somebody who could fill a position we needed.

"It was the same with James. They will both fit in.

"Their performances will speak for themselves."

"In theory, they should be the easiest players to bring in, because they do not cost a lot.

"But it probably proved more difficult than we thought, because of where we want to go (as club)."

A "ROGUE trader" accused of Britain's biggest banking fraud was "a gamble or two away from destroying Switzerland's largest bank", a court heard today.

Former University of Nottingham student Kweku Adoboli, 32, is accused of gambling away £1.4 billion while working as a trader for UBS.

At one point he was at risk of causing the bank losses of £7.4 billion, jurors at Southwark Crown Court were told.

Adoboli, who is facing two counts of fraud and two counts of false accounting between October 2008 and last September, allegedly gambled away the money on high-risk trades aimed at boosting his annual bonuses and job prospects.

Prosecutor Sasha Wass QC said: "He is on trial because he lost his bank £1.4 billion. He fraudulently gambled it away. He also, in doing so, wiped 10%, or about £2.8 billion, off the bank's share price.

"He did all of this by exceeding his trading limits, by inventing fictitious deals to conceal this and then he lied to his bosses.

"Mr Adoboli's motive for this behaviour was to increase his bonus, his status within the bank, his job prospects and of course his ego.

"Like most gamblers, he believed he had the magic touch. Like most gamblers, when he lost, he caused chaos and disaster to himself and all of those around him."

Adoboli, who graduated from Nottingham in July 2003 with a BSc (Hons) degree in e-commerce and digital business, worked for UBS's global synthetic equities division, buying and selling exchange traded funds, which track different types of stocks, bonds or commodities such as metals.

The bank set a daily trading limit for the ETF desk of £61.5 billion, and also used "hedging" to reduce risk – for example buying one type of investment and simultaneously selling a similar one to mitigate any loss.

Prosecutors claim Adoboli failed to hedge several of his investments in order to make a bigger profit for the bank and larger bonus for himself.

Ms Wass said: "At one stage Mr Adoboli was in danger of losing the bank nearly £7.4 billion of investments."

Adoboli, from Clark Street, Whitechapel, east London, "fraudulently side-stepped" the bank's rules that banned high risk and unauthorised trades, the court heard.

Ms Wass said: "To put the huge trading loss in some sort of perspective, £1.4 billion is enough to pay a year's salary for nearly 70,000 new nurses or perhaps even six new hospitals.

"This colossal loss arose purely as a result of Mr Adoboli's fraudulent deal making, which amounted as you will see, to nothing more than gambling."

"Mr Adoboli had ceased to act as a professional investment banker. He had become what is sometimes referred to as a rogue trader."

Adoboli denies the charges. The trial was adjourned until Monday.

ANDY Reid is one of those players who seems to attract the automatic prefix 'veteran' every time he is mentioned in the media.

Given that he only celebrated his 30th birthday a few weeks ago, that must rankle with the Irishman, who is hardly in the twilight of his career.

But the veteran moniker is probably more due to his longevity than his age.

Because, in November, it will be 12 years since the winger made his debut in English football, with Nottingham Forest, as a fresh faced youngster.

But, rather than being ready to wind down, Reid's appetite seems to be as fierce as ever.

Don't be mistaken, that is not a reference to suggestions that Reid has struggled to maintain match fitness in the past.

Quite the opposite in fact. Because, when a new era kicked-off under Sean O'Driscoll and new Kuwaiti owners, Reid must have been within a few pounds of the weight he was when he made his debut at the City Ground, all those years ago.

A summer of intense hard work has left Reid in good shape. And it has been reflected on the pitch where the increasingly sprightly winger has been integral to an encouraging start to the campaign.

Reid's motivation, he says, is to provide some payback to the club that set him on his way more than a decade ago.

Having come through the Forest academy under Paul Hart, Reid went on to play in the Premier League with Tottenham, Charlton, Sunderland and Blackpool.

He was lured back to Forest a year ago by the desire to restore the fortunes of the club that gave him his first chance.

"The people who work in the offices, the kit man – everyone has a role to play in making this a good place to be," said Reid, who is almost certain to be in the starting line-up as Forest face Birmingham City at the City Ground today.

"When I first came here as a youngster, the thing that made me want to sign was the fact that it was such a family club.

"Everyone mucked in for each other. There are people here at this club who helped me out so much when I was young, not just on the playing staff.

"I would love to see the club going in the right direction again, just for people like that.

"I would like to see them enjoy being part of something successful, because they deserve it. I'd like to be part of that myself."

With the club now under the ownership of the Al Hasawi family, there have been big changes on the pitch, with 11 new players drafted in by O'Driscoll. But Reid is happy that, away from the playing squad, little has been altered.

"Credit to the new owners, because it would have been easy for them to change a lot of things," he said.

"When somebody buys a new club, they can do what they want with it. But they have listened to people and I think they realise there are good people involved here.

"There is no question that, right now, Forest is a good place to be."

The capture of Henri Lansbury, Simon Gillett, Adlene Guedioura and James Coppinger has only intensified the fight for places in midfield.

"It keeps you on your toes, which is the way it should be," said Reid. "Last season, there was a team picked and, unless there was an injury or suspension, that would be the team. There was a group of players who would start if they were available.

"There was not much opportunity for some players. Now, our manager is fair. He has been honest with everyone.

"When players have been in and done well, they have stayed in the side. If they have impressed in training, they have been given a chance.

"You cannot ask for any more than that as a player."

It is the same situation in the final third, where the addition of Simon Cox and Billy Sharp has given Forest a front line to match any in the Championship, when you add Dexter Blackstock, Marcus Tudgay and Robbie Findley to the equation.

"We have fantastic strikers at the club. We have Dexter who, when Cox plays off him, looks like it could be a decent partnership," said Reid.

"You need competition for places and we have that now. We have it up front, we have it in midfield and we are starting to have it at the back.

"Tuggy has proved over the years that he can do a good job. He played a lot of matches last season and did really well.

"David McGoldrick (who has joined Coventry on loan) has phenomenal ability. He just needs a chance to shine and perform.

"As well as that, Robbie Findley is a handful whenever he plays.

"We have got great options in the attacking areas and we are getting it in midfield as well.

"You need that in the Championship, you need a decent sized squad. It is important to find the balance between not having too many players and not having enough to keep you ticking over. You need to look at the amount of games you play, often in a short time."

Forest are unbeaten in the Championship so far this season but even the one defeat they have suffered – against Wigan in the Capital One Cup – held plenty of cause for optimism, believes Reid.

"We watched a video of the key points of the game and it was the first time a manager has ever said to any team I have played in 'well done, you played well' after a 4-1 defeat," he said.

"It was a strange thing, but he was right. Some of the goals they scored were fantastic. But, in general play, I thought we matched them. We played some good football and scored a great goal of our own.

"There is a gap between established Premier League clubs and to where we are now. We are still building.

"When an established Premier League team get half a chance, it is a goal.

"It is important that we always take positives from things. There are obviously things we knew we could work on after that.

"And, as the manager says, we will always be a work in progress.

"We are off to a decent start; we are happy with how we have performed and with the results we have picked up.

"It is only a start, there is still plenty more to work on and plenty more to come."

And, if the first few weeks of the campaign are anything to go by, there is plenty more to come from Reid as well.

THE father of a teenager seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident says the perpetrators "left him to die like a dog in the road".

Hunter Thomson spoke out after three men were sentenced over the Ilkeston crash which left his son Haydn, 19, in intensive care.

The car was later set alight and abandoned in a field.

Matthew Reynolds, 29, of St Norbert Drive, Kirk Hallam, was yesterday jailed for three years after he admitted failing to stop at the scene of an accident, failing to report an accident and perverting the course of justice. He was also banned from driving for four years.

Passenger James Harrison, 22, of Oliver Road, Kirk Hallam, admitted perverting the course of justice. He was jailed for 20 months.

Scott Hipkiss, 18, of Kirkby-in-Ashfield, admitted perverting the course of justice. He was not in the car but lied to support the others' alibi. He was given an eight-month sentence, suspended for a year, and 200 hours unpaid work.

Haydn, of St James's Avenue, Ilkeston, spent almost a month in intensive care after the crash at the junction of Stanton Road and Union Road on May 12. Haydn is now back at home recovering, and was at Derby Crown Court to see the trio sentenced, but his father says he has permanent brain damage.

Mr Thomson said: "He kind of comprehends what is happening, but he will never fully recover because brain damage is permanent.

"Haydn said to me in court he didn't want the youngest lad sent to jail and he hoped he could carry on with his life.

"He is pleased with the sentences the other guys got. He thought it was a fair outcome."

Mr Thomson said he believed the three showed "no remorse".

He said: "I think anyone of moral character...if you hit somebody you should stop, to see what assistance they can give, even if it is to call an ambulance.

"They never even did. They left him to die like a dog or animal in the road. They showed no remorse."

Asked how his son felt about everything, Mr Thomson said: "He knows what they did was wrong, but he is still trying to balance it in his mind."

Hadyn was in the Queen's Medical Centre until July 26.

His pelvis was smashed and he couldn't breathe on his own for a long time. He had to learn to speak again.

Outside court, PC Paul Barker said: "Haydn is very lucky to be alive. The medical staff at the Queen's Medical Centre did a remarkable job.

"There is a message here that if you have a collision, don't try to cover it up."

Recorder Peter Ievins extended the sympathy of the court to Haydn and his family.

He said: "You are plainly an exceptional young man and I am sure you still are and you will be."

To the defendants, he said: "This was one of the most contemptible pieces of behaviour to come before the courts.

"Reynolds had been drinking. You were driving too fast in a residential area with a speed limit of 30mph limit. You thought you might have killed him. You left another human being, as far as you knew, dying in the road. Fortunately he did not die. He suffered brain injuries from which he will suffer for the rest of his life and you must live with that knowledge that you are responsible.

"Harrison, even though you were a passenger and, I gather, told him to slow down and then stop, afterwards you could have gone back or contacted the emergency services. You had four miles in which to do so. You did not.

"As I say, your behaviour is contemptible. But it gets worse. When you got home, you might have thought better and listened to your conscience and done the right thing. You did the opposite. You drove the car away and set fire to it and destroyed it and you tried to manufacture an alibi."

He said Hipkiss was in a different position. He had lied to police at the behest of one of the defendants.

BILLY Sharp today revealed he left Southampton because he did not want to 'go stale' on the sidelines – and pledged to prove his worth at Nottingham Forest.

The striker admitted his frustration and surprise at being told he would be a peripheral figure on the south coast.

Sharp fired eight goals to help Southampton to promotion, after moving from Doncaster in January – and he expected to have the chance to prove he could cut it in the top flight.

But now he admits it would be hard to return to St Mary's in the future – and instead hopes to earn a Premier League opportunity with Forest, after joining on a season-long loan.

"I don't want to go into too much detail, but it was best for me to leave. I don't want to be sat around not playing, because then you go stale," said Sharp. "Things would have to change for me to go back there.

"I thought I was at the peak of my career. I was stronger, I was leaner and I felt as though I could have challenged for a place in the starting 11 down there.

"But it was not meant to be.

"You never say never. But I am a Nottingham Forest player now and I am looking forward to being part of things here.

"Hopefully I will play a lot of games and score a lot of goals.

"I was enjoying it at Southampton. But I found out a few things and it was best for me to move on.

"Football can change quickly and I was not prepared to just sit around and not earn my money.

"People often say that footballers are well paid – well, I like to earn my wages and I hope I can do that here."

Sharp will face a fight for his place at Forest as well – but is likely to be given his full debut against Birmingham today, with Simon Cox recovering from a foot injury collected on international duty with Ireland.

"Southampton was a club with a lot of strikers and I was willing to fight for my place there," he said.

"It is the same situation here. There are a lot of good strikers here, with a goal threat.

"It is just a question of making sure you work hard to give yourself a chance of being in that team."

Forest striker Matt Derbyshire has joined League One Oldham on a month-long loan deal.