Big names signed up for recruitment fair

September 20, 2013, 10:00 pm

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NOTTINGHAM Trent University is encouraging employers to attend its recruitment fair on Wednesday, October 30.

In previous years it has attracted more than 1,700 students.

Organisations of all sizes, from small local firms to multinational companies such as Microsoft, Enterprise Rent-a-Car and Xerox, have already booked their places. Marina Staseneko, resourcing manager at Tesco, said: "We find it extremely valuable to attend university careers events because it gives us a chance to meet talented and career-driven students."

Call the university on 0115 848 4023 for more details.

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No bridge too far as NET prepares for the big move

September 20, 2013, 10:00 pm

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A NEW tram bridge weighing more than 1,000 tons will be wheeled into place next weekend.

The 62-metre-long structure will be jacked up by six metres to its installation height before moving across and over the ring road.

It was built on site at the Queen's Medical Centre and will carry trams between Beeston and the city when the system is up and running in late 2014.

The bridge will be part of a long viaduct running through the hospital grounds and will include a stop at the QMC.

Michael Anderson, project director for contractor Taylor Woodrow Alstom, said: "Following the success of the bridge slide over Nottingham Railway Station, this is another major milestone for the project. It's a major feat of engineering and the talents of a large team will be involved in moving a spectacular structure into place – a further demonstration that NET Phase Two is starting to take shape."

Nottingham City Council said the bridge installation would not affect the Ikano Robin Hood Marathon, due to take place on the same day.

The authority said the experience of successfully installing the Station Bridge and Lenton Lane bridges earlier this year had been "fundamental" in planning the launch of this bridge.

During the installation on the evening of September 28 and early hours of September 29, there will be some disruption to motorists.

One lane of the A52 Clifton Boulevard will be closed in both directions on the Saturday between 6pm and 8pm, with a full closure of the A52 from the Dunkirk slip road to Middleton Boulevard slip road taking place from 8pm on Saturday until 6am on Sunday.

Councillor Jane Urquhart, portfolio holder for planning and transport at the city council, said: "The A52 bridge is another iconic structure in the project to deliver a world-class tram network for Nottingham.

"Not only is the NET extension going to provide a fast, reliable and sustainable alternative to the car, but it is already boosting the local economy, creating jobs and employment opportunities and transforming key areas of the city and beyond."

City flies the Purple Flag for fourth year

September 20, 2013, 10:00 pm

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A PURPLE flag is flying on the Council House after the city's nightlife was recognised as among the best in the country.

Nottingham has retained its Purple Flag status for a fourth consecutive year.

Purple Flag is a national scheme that recognises excellence in the management of town and city centres at night.

The Council House and Castle will also be lit up in purple all next week.

A range of initiatives have been used to retain the Purple Flag, cheaper on-street parking in the evening and more late-night buses.

The city is cleaner after 130 solar powered self-compacting litter bins were installed and an iPhone app launched to enable people to report littering and vandalism.

Failed raiders flee from chip shop

September 20, 2013, 10:00 pm

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TWO men wearing balaclavas tried to rob a fish and chip shop in Long Eaton.

At 8.45pm on Thursday, September 12, they entered Antonio's Chip Shop, Main Street.

One stood in the doorway while the other tried to take the till. They failed and ran away empty-handed. Staff in the shop were not injured.

The men were slim and dressed in dark clothing.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Security guard's bravery halts second robbery bid

September 20, 2013, 10:00 pm

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THE moment two robbers tried to smash their way through the window of a high street jeweller's with a sledgehammer is captured in the picture above.

Between them, James Beecroft and Stuart Robertson were responsible for three incidents targeting Beeston businesses.

On New Year's Eve 2012, the duo attacked the window of Onyx Goldsmiths, in High Road.

Wearing masks, they tried to batter through a window to get at stock as terrified staff and shoppers looked on – but they failed and fled.

Three weeks earlier, Beecroft had gone into the Carphone Warehouse, in Queen's Road, and threatened staff with a knife.

He fled with 28 smartphones and two tablets – but that wasn't enough for the 28-year-old.

He went back to the shop, with Robertson two days after their attempt on Onyx.

The masked pair demanded the security guard hand over goods. When he refused, they tried to get to the stock room, where two other staff members were hiding.

But the 26-year-old guard stood his ground.

Despite being punched and kicked by the men, he refused to let them through. They eventually fled.

He was left with minor injuries but no one else was hurt and the shop suffered no further losses.

Both robbers were jailed at Nottingham Crown Court on Thursday after admitting the crimes.

Detective Constable Karl Aram, of Beeston CID, said: "The methods and descriptions were all very similar and Beecroft was even wearing the same clothes in the second attempt on the Carphone Warehouse as he had worn in the first robbery.

"The staff in all these cases did the right things. Onyx staff were quick off the mark with the shutters before calling police.

"The security guard at Carphone Warehouse deserves special mention. He showed guts standing up to the two men and, without doubt, prevented another robbery and, anyone else being injured.

"It's a good day when violent men like Beecroft and Robertson are removed from the community and put under lock and key."

Beecroft, of Haddon Crescent, Beeston, previously pleaded guilty to the robbery and attempted robbery at the Carphone Warehouse, as well as possessing a knife. He also admitted the attempted burglary at Onyx Goldsmiths.

He was jailed for a total of seven years.

Robertson, of Inham Road, Beeston, had previously pleaded guilty to the attempted robberies at Carphone Warehouse and at Onyx Goldsmiths.

He was sentenced to three years in jail.

Charges relating to an attempted robbery on January 4 at Trowell Post Office will lie on file for both men. A machete was used to make threats in that incident.

Onyx managing director Erica Mucenieks, who was in the shop when the raid was attempted, said: "These men have been in custody since the end of January thanks to our high-level surveillance and sophisticated level of security and the excellent work of Notts Police.

"Hopefully, in that time they have taken a moment to think about the victims of these vicious crimes.

"We feel very fortunate not have experienced as much trauma as Carphone Warehouse staff and agree the security guard's bravery should be acknowledged."

Carphone Warehouse declined to comment.

Inspectors find mediocre kitchen hygiene in schools and nurseries

September 20, 2013, 11:42 pm

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CITY schools and nurseries have vowed to up standards in their kitchens after receiving just three out of five points in food hygiene inspections. Two schools and two nurseries were given the mediocre rating after inspections by Nottingham City Council's food and health safety team. They are Bluecoat Academy, Aspley; Iona School, Sneinton Dale; the Paper Moon nursery, in Lenton; and Sunrise Nurseries, Alfreton Road, Radford. Inspectors found the kitchen at Bluecoat had no separate work surfaces for raw and cooked foods, a kitchen fridge thermometer was broken, a wall was flaking paint and kitchen skylights were dirty. The academy scored three out of five for food hygiene. Inspectors will return to check that recommendations are followed. Bluecoat's head teacher, Sian Hampton, said the academy had made the recommended changes and expected full marks in the next inspection. At Iona School, inspectors found dust build-ups in ventilation and light fittings, chopping boards were damaged and food safety records haphazard. The report noted records had "lapsed altogether since September 2012". Once again, inspectors are returning in two months to check recommendations have been carried out. Two nurseries were also given hygiene ratings of three points. The kitchen and staff room at Paper Moon nursery, Faraday Road, Lenton, had several faults, such as sandwiches containing "tuna, egg and other high risk fillings" left out all afternoon, a probe thermometer not being disinfected before use and a kitchen ceiling dirty and stained above the oven. The nursery was given two months to carry out changes. Manager Tanya Draper said: "We are making the changes needed, such as ensuring the children have vegetarian cutlery if they need it. "We now make all our own sandwiches on site at teatime. We haven't had a return visit from inspectors yet but we are doing our best to make the improvements." Sunrise Nurseries was also given three points, having only one kitchen sink – two are needed, one for hand washing and one for equipment. Another fault was a carpet in the kitchen which "will harbour dirt and can't be cleaned properly", the inspectors said. The nursery was also criticised for damaged paint on the kitchen ceiling and inadequate documentation about possible food safety hazards and things that must be checked to ensure food is safe on site. The Post asked Iona school and Sunrise Nurseries to respond but neither did so. A city council spokesman said: "Inspections of food premises and food is a statutory duty required by the Food Standards Agency. "The frequency of inspection depends on a risk assessment for each business, taking in to account the type of food business and how well they comply." What do you think about the food hygiene of your child's school? Get in touch at opinion@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk.

Man and teenage boy charged with gun-point robberies

September 21, 2013, 12:43 am

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A MAN and a teenage boy have been remanded in custody charged in connection with separate gun-point robberies in The Meadows. Vito Moukoumedza, 19, of Healey Close, The Meadows, was charged with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm after a man was threatened with a weapon and had his wallet and phone stolen in Queen's Walk on August 18. A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was also charged with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm, in relation to the robbery of a 19-year-old woman in Burge Close on September 17. Both appeared before Nottingham magistrates yesterday and have been remanded into custody to appear at Nottingham Crown Court at a later date.

Hardship fund to be set up to help Beeston firms affected by tram works

September 21, 2013, 1:29 am

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A HARDSHIP fund looks likely to be set up for Beeston businesses affected badly by tram works. Independent traders in Chilwell Road and High Road have been left struggling since the road was closed. Broxtowe MP Anna Soubry has been campaigning for financial help to be given to them. In her newsletter to constituents, sent out last night, she said the city council had agreed to a hardship fund being set up. It could mean £50,000 being given to the Beeston Business Improvement District. Miss Soubry also said the council was prepared to raise the cap on compensation claims from £13,000 to £20,000. Stephanie Wilkinson, manager of the former, said: "We welcome the news about this money. "We aren't sure yet who should administer the money, whether it is ourselves or another organisation. We are in talks about that. "Businesses are struggling with the road closure. People's livelihoods are at stake. We also want this area to be thriving when the tram work is finished. "This will all contribute to that happening." Julie Cameron, who runs Cameron House Gift Shop, first raised the idea of the hardship fund. She said: "This is much needed. We want to ensure that businesses don't cease trading because of the road closure. "The money offered is generous but I'm not sure it will be enough so I'd like to think there may be a chance of obtaining some more because businesses here are really struggling." Emma Corbett, owner of the Relish Deli, said: "It is good that this money is being put up but I'd like to know more details about how you qualify. Basically what is the definition of hardship? "I have lost trade, particularly in June and July when the tram works were right outside, so any money which I can obtain will be a big help."

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Drivers hit with more than £430,000 of fines at one city junction

September 21, 2013, 3:52 am

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MOTORISTS at a city centre junction have been hit with more than £430,000 of fines in just two months.

Seven thousand fines have been dished out since cars were banned from turning left from London Road into Station Street. This has given Nottingham City Council a potential windfall of £432,840.

And, with the restrictions set to last at least until January 2015, the council could eventually collect more than £2 million.

More than 100 drivers are being caught at the junction every day, on average.

The council says the money collected in fines will be spent on transport projects. But motorists are still angry.

Kevin Clarke, owner of taxi firm NG11 Cars, in Clifton, said: "It seems to me it's all about bringing money in.

"They are clearly getting a huge amount of money from it."

The council started enforcing the restriction on July 15, to allow for better access for replacement buses while the railway station was closed.

Now, the authority says the ban will remain for at least 18 months, for unspecified safety reasons. It may then be made permanent.

The Post previously reported that, after the first month, just over 4,000 fines had been given out. On some days, 200 to 300 drivers were being caught.

The number of fines has now nearly doubled.

Motorist Rob Stevenson, 33, of Wilford, said: "It seems pointless. I could understand them doing it when the train station was closed because of all the buses, but now the station has reopened, they should lift the restriction."

The restriction means only buses, licensed hackney carriages and cycles can turn into Station Street off London Road.

Automatic number plate recognition CCTV cameras are recording all unauthorised vehicles that enter the street.

The council insists people have had enough warning. Several signs in London Road warn drivers not to turn into Station Street.

A spokesman said 1,679 warning notices were issued to drivers before the restrictions came into place.

"The restriction is clearly signed and if drivers comply with it, they won't be fined," he said.

Have you been caught out? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk

The Big Issue: Should shops be allowed to sell alcohol 24 hours a day and why?

September 21, 2013, 5:08 am

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Let us know if you think shops should be allowed to sell alcohol 24 hours a day by commenting below.

Notts post impressive first innings score in YB40 final

September 21, 2013, 6:05 am

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NOTTS posted an impressive score in the first innings of the Yorkshire Bank 40 final as the Outlaws seek to win a one day competition for the first time since 1989. The Outlaws relied heavily on their elder statesmen with Chris Read and David Hussey sharing a record partnership after the side's impressive top order failed to shine, Notts finishing on 244-8. But Glamorgan will still feel there is a way back into the game with plenty of talent and experience in their line-up. On a cloudy day in North London the going was tough for the Notts openers – James Allenby and Michael Hogan finding nip off the pitch and swing in the air, frequently leaving Alex Hales and Michael Lumb desperately groping for the ball. But the key for this Notts side, with such an expansive top and middle order, was always to keep wickets in hand. And as the duo settled they began to play with more freedom, Lumb hitting two fours and a six in the eighth over. As the batting power play came to a close Notts had managed 47 runs, but crucially lost no wickets, building a platform for a potentially mammoth innings. But just minutes later Lumb became the final's first casualty as he could only tickle an innocuous delivery from spinner Andrew Salter back into the grateful hands of the bowler. And Lumb's opening partner also found himself walking off head in hands soon after, having lofted a simple catch to mid-wicket, failing to find the middle of his bat. For Notts it seemed the opener's replacements, Samit Patel and James Taylor had begun to rebuild the innings, but with 80 on the scoreboard, Patel swiped at an Andrew Salter delivery and the ball dropped simply at mid-off for an easy catch. The all-rounder falling for just 10 runs from 21 balls. Notts soon found themselves teetering even closer to the precipice as former England Ashes hero Simon Jones rolled back the years to leave Taylor floundering outside his off stump, perfectly finding the edge of the batsman's willow and comfortably nestling into the wicketkeeper's gloves. Taylor's score of 22 from 28 deliveries had been promising but perhaps simply not enough for a player of his pedigree. It was following the wicket of Taylor that the game turned back in Notts' favour. More steadfast than swashbuckling, but nevertheless important, a 50 partnership between Read and Hussey helped bring Notts back into the game, taking them to a score of 145-4 after 30 overs. The duo continued to accelerate posting a 40 over final record partnership of 99 before Hussey was unfortunately run out for an impressive 42 runs, Graeme Swann taking to the field to replace the Australian with a license to hit freely. Swann and Steven Mullaney managed a record seventh wicket partnership of 42 to push Notts to a very competitive 237-7 before Mullaney was bowled brilliantly by Graham Wagg. And the final over of the innings saw Swann joined by England team-mate Broad at the crease - Notts finishing the innings on a relatively intimidating 244 for 8.

Today's special: Interactive cookery at Clumber Park food festival

September 21, 2013, 7:54 am

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INTERACTIVE culinary experiences were on the main menu at a food and drink festival in Clumber Park. Kids were invited to learn the art of pizza, bread, ice cream and butter making while celebrity chefs gave a show on how to cook classy for cheap. The Great Taste Festival, which attracted thousands of guests to the county from far and wide, had hundreds of stalls and a baking competition, all accompanied by a stream of live music throughout Saturday, with more to follow tomorrow. Zebra, kangaroo and buffalo pies were on sale, with exotic cheeses, award winning oils and cakes of plentiful flavours and colours among the products available. Jessica Vernon, 8, and her brother Alex, 4, had a go at creating their very own pizzas from scratch. Jessica, who likes a cheese and sweetcorn topping, said: "I like to cook at home and it's really fun to make pizza. I like trying new foods, and have had some nice sausages today." Alex topped his pizza with peppers and pepperoni. Mum Louise said the family, from Mansfield Woodhouse, were enjoying the day. "It's a lovely event and somewhere nice to bring the kids for a day out," she said.

Meanwhile in the cookery theatre, Michelin-starred celebrity chef John Burton-Race was giving guests a taste of his cooking, as he prepared a cheap yet gourmet three-course meal. The Masterchef and Great British Menu star said: "It's about being flash with food but we have all got a house to run and other bills to pay. "So I've had a play around and made some tasty and arty dishes without the expense. I know I can be a poncy chef but i can cook simple food, which can be brilliant if done well." He made a lamb dish with seasonal herbs followed by a lemon dosset with blackberry compote, made with fruit donated by the National Trust, who run Clumber Park. Among the food exhibitors were Newark-based cafe Gannets, who have recently expanded into the private catering business. They were selling their famous carrot cake and some flavoured meringues - with pistachio a favourite with shoppers on the day. "It's something a bit different," said owner Kate Stevens, 47. "People seem to like our stall and it's a great place to come for a show like this - it gives lots of local independent businesses a platform." Borderfields Rapeseed Oil was also selling like hot cakes. The UK's biggest rapeseed oil firm, based in Bilsthorpe, are growing rapidly as an alternative oil, and had new oils with garlic, basil and chili infusions on sale. Director Philip Lilley enthused: "It's something you can grow round the corner, so there's no need to import from the Mediterranean. "One seed can grow a five-foot-tall plant, which I think is incredible." Bev Channell, the festival's event director, added: "We wanted to create an event like this in Nottingham so that people can understand where their food comes from. It's not just a show, it's interactive. "I have an 11-year-old daughter and for her to have an understanding of food is important to me so that's why I wanted to create the event."

Woman assaulted by five men as she waits to collect child

September 21, 2013, 8:19 am

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FIVE men assaulted a woman and stole her handbag as she waited to pick up her child from school. The woman was approached by the men as she stood on the corner of Varney Road and Greencroft in Clifton, opposite Dovecote Primary School. They demanded her mobile phone before assaulting her. The attack happened at 2.50pm on Thursday. Police said the woman was left with scratches and bruises and was very shaken. The group were described as all being mixed race and in their late teens or early 20s. Two of them were on bikes. Detective Inspector Martin Putnar, leading the investigation, said: "This was a despicable, cowardly attack on a young lady waiting to collect her children from school. "This is a busy area and I'm sure there were people close by who would have seen these males, though not necessarily realised what they had done. "I would urge anyone that saw them or who may have information as to their identity to call us." Police have increased patrols in the area, particularly around the start and end of the school day. Anyone with information should call police on 101.

Powerful Notts blast Glamorgan away in Yorkshire Bank 40 Final

September 21, 2013, 8:46 am

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A MATCH-WINNING spell of bowling from Ajmal Shazhad, Stuart Broad and Samit Patel saw Notts claim the Yorkshire Bank 40 trophy – their first one day competition win since 1989. The Outlaws had relied heavily on their elder statesmen while batting with Chris Read and David Hussey sharing a record partnership after the side's impressive top order failed to shine, Notts finishing on 244-8. But in reply, Glamorgan could only manage 157 all out. Despite stylish spells, the Welsh side failed to cope with the firepower of Broad, Shazhad and Patel who claimed three wickets each in breaking the opposition down. On a cloudy day in North London the going was tough for the Notts openers against Glamorgan's James Allenby and Michael Hogan who were finding nip off the pitch and swing in the air, frequently leaving Alex Hales and Michael Lumb desperately groping for the ball. But the key for this Notts side, with such an expansive top and middle order, was always to keep wickets in hand. And as the duo settled they began to play with more freedom, Lumb hitting two fours and a six in the eighth over. As the batting power play came to a close Notts had managed 47 runs, but crucially lost no wickets, building a platform for a potentially mammoth innings. But just minutes later Lumb became the final's first casualty as he could only tickle an innocuous delivery from spinner Andrew Salter back into the grateful hands of the bowler. And Lumb's opening partner also found himself walking off head in hands soon after, having lofted a simple catch to mid-wicket, failing to find the middle of his bat. For Notts it seemed the opener's replacements, Samit Patel and James Taylor had begun to rebuild the innings, but with 80 on the scoreboard, Patel swiped at an Andrew Salter delivery and the ball dropped simply at mid-off for an easy catch. The all-rounder falling for just 10 runs from 21 balls. Notts soon found themselves teetering even closer to the precipice as former England Ashes hero Simon Jones rolled back the years to leave Taylor floundering outside his off stump, perfectly finding the edge of the batsman's willow and comfortably nestling into the wicketkeeper's gloves. Taylor's score of 22 from 28 deliveries had been promising but perhaps simply not enough for a player of his pedigree. It was following the wicket of Taylor that the game turned back in Notts' favour. More steadfast than swashbuckling, but nevertheless important, a 50 partnership between Read and Hussey helped bring Notts back into the game, taking them to a score of 145-4 after 30 overs. The duo continued to accelerate posting a 40 over final record partnership of 99 before Hussey was unfortunately run out for an impressive 42 runs, Graeme Swann taking to the field to replace the Australian with a license to hit freely. Swann and Steven Mullaney managed a record seventh wicket partnership of 42 to push Notts to a very competitive 237-7 before Mullaney was bowled brilliantly by Graham Wagg. And the final over of the innings saw Swann joined by England team-mate Broad at the crease - Notts finishing the innings on a relatively intimidating 244 for 8. With England stars Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann back in the Notts fold for the day, Outlaws fans will be hoping to see their team successfully defend their total. And momentum on their side, the Notts players came out firing for the Glamorgan innings. A veritable feast of variation from opening bowler Harry Gurney terrifying the Glamorgan batsmen, with his first delivery dislodging captain Mark Wallace, having him caught at point. Having dropped David Hussey early in his innings, Glamorgan batsman Gareth Rees looked desperate to make amends and went after the Notts bowling, hitting a stylish 29 before being removed by a beautiful delivery from Ajmal Shazhad that careered into his stumps and sent his bails flying. For what seemed like hours after Rees' delivery, Glamorgan set about creating a partnership that took the song out of the Notts fans' throats and gave them a genuine chance of winning the match. Cooke and Allenby both looked comfortable and batted prudently. With Cooke on 45 Broad failed to take a catch that may have seen the pendulum swing toward Notts, but the tall bowler couldn't quite reach the high ball. But, the England man's blushes were spared when Notts' spin king – Samit Patel, not Graeme Swann – beautifully beat the bat of Cooke scattering the stumps putting an end to a partnership worth 60 runs. And with Notts fans starting to believe, Patel took it upon himself to get them on their feet once again. The all-rounder again drifted a wonderful ball in to turn viciously and smash through Allenby's stumps, prompting wild celebrations in the field. The talented Notts man was not done there however. In the 24th over the spinner sneaked one under Murray Goodwin's bat to claim his third wicket leaving Glamorgan 118-5. Desperate not to allow Patel to take all the glory, Shazhad returned at the Pavilion End and took the wicket of Ben Wright as the batsman chipped harmlessly to Lumb in the field. And Shazhad was not finished there, the quick bowler dislodging Salter for his second wicket in the over and third overall, leaving Glamorgan with slim hopes of a victory. Not content to let his county team-mates do the work, England star Broad returned to the attack to take Glamorgan's eighth wicket – his first of the game – sending Dean Cosker back to the pavilion after the batsman failed to cope with Broad's pace and bounce and spooned an easy catch to Mullaney. And another wicket was soon to follow, again Broad doing the business this time taking Graham Wagg – who is caught behind by Chris Read. The final nail in the Glamorgan coffin was hammered home by Broad. The fast-bowlers quick delivery was too hot to handle for Michael Hogan who could only watch as his stumps shattered and the Notts players celebrated in the field.

Spectacular goals from Cohen and Reid help Forest to a point at Doncaster

September 21, 2013, 8:52 am

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ANDY Reid conjured up another spectacular goal – his fourth in six games – to help Nottingham Forest fight back from behind to claim a 2-2 draw at Doncaster. The midfielder sent a powerful shot high into the corner of the net in the 81st minute, as Billy Davies' side levelled for a second time in the game. Federico Macheda had twice put the home side ahead, with goals in each half. Chris Cohen had cancelled out the first with an impressive finish of his own, curling home from the edge of the area. And Reid ensured that Forest made the short journey home with a share of the spoils, as he again showed his quality at the vital time. There was a bright start to the game, with Forest quickly putting Doncaster on the back foot. When Darius Henderson – playing as a lone striker – flicked a header to Djamal Abdoun, the Algerian set up Andy Reid for a shooting chance. With his right foot, the Irishman failed to muster the power to trouble Ross Turnbull, who made a simple save. Abdoun and Mackie were playing in wide positions, although the former Olympiakos player again seemed to have something of a free role. Mackie tested Turnbull with a powerful shot, which the keeper did well to hold. While the Doncaster stopper also had to get his body behind a cross/shot from Abdoun, bent towards the near post. It was Doncaster who had the best of the early opportunities though, with Halford getting an important challenge in to put off Theo Robinson as he attacked a cross at the near post, after Reece Wabara had powered forward from right back to deliver. Forest responded by carving out a decent opening for Mackie, as he beat Rob Jones for pace, before testing Turnbull's reaction with a crisp, low shot that the keeper did well to smother. Abdoun had a shot charged down after Doncaster gave away possession on the edge of their own box, while a Cohen cross had Mackie sliding in at the near post, only for his prodded shot to be deflected wide for a corner. Jack Hobbs, pushing forward from the back, found himself with the room to shoot from 25 yards. A deflection took the pace off the ball – but almost fed in Reid, with Turnbull alert to the danger. Doncaster looked to be a threat from set pieces, but it was Forest who had the greater menace from open play, with a clever ball from Reid inches away from giving Mackie a headed chance a few years out, on the half hour mark. With ten minutes to go before half time, it was the home side who found their cutting edge however, with Robinson running at the Forest defence, drawing the attention of Lichaj – and leaving room for Macheda to surge into the box on the overlap. Robinson fed the on-loan Manchester United man and he did the rest, slotting a confident finish underneath the body of the advancing Karl Darlow. But the lead was to last only five minutes, with Forest hitting back with a fine goal of their own. Reid's touch gave him a moment to think on the left side of the box, where he fed a simple, but decisive pass into the path of Cohen's surging run. The Forest skipper responded with an outstanding finish, curling the ball beyond Turnbull and into the corner of the net, from the edge of the box. Lansbury might have put them ahead within a minute, but his forceful shot missed the target by a narrow margin. Although, with the game having sprung into life, Hobbs also had to clear the ball off the Forest line, after a Macheda cross had taken a wicked deflection. Doncaster took the lead for a second time, six minutes after the break, following a swift counter attack. Robinson's powerful run started it off, before he fed Wellens, bursting into the box on the right. The experienced midfielder then gave Macheda the simple task of slotting the ball home at the far post. A foul on Lansbury gave Reid the chance to try his luck with a free kick from the edge of the box and he had Turnbull at full stretch with a curling effort that was bound for the bottom corner, before the keeper pushed it around the post. Forest made two changes with Jamie Paterson coming on for Abdoun and Radi Majewski replacing Chalobah. Either side of the change, Reid had two shots from the edge of the box, both of which rose narrowly over the target. Henderson missed a decent chance to level for a second time, as he drove a shot into the side netting when presented with room to pull the trigger. While Robinson might have given Doncaster some breathing space, but headed badly over when unmarked 12 yards out. Forest wanted a penalty when firstly Reid and then substitute Matt Derbyshire went down in the box, amid a melee of players. But neither claim was particularly convincing. What was more emphatic was the manner in which Reid provided the equalising goal, within a minute of the incidents. Collecting possession 20 yards out, the midfielder took a touch, before smashing an unstoppable shot high into the corner of the net. The moment sent the 4,000 Forest fans behind the goal into frenzied celebrations. And they should have been celebrating again, had Paterson not fluffed his lines when presented with a superb chance to put Forest ahead. Derbyshire's darting run into space down the left was followed by a crisp ball across the box, but Paterson failed to properly connect with his shot, eight yards out, with only Turnbull to beat. Henderson had a late header saved, although had the ball found the net it would not have counted, with the referee having spotted a push. But it was the home side who were hanging on in the final stages. Doncaster: Turnbull, Husband, Furman, Jones, Brown, Macheda (Coppinger 70), Khumalo, Keegan, Wellens, Robinson (Cotterill 82), Wabara (Quinn 58). Subs: Maxted, Duffy, McCullough, Bennett. Forest: Darlow, Lichaj, Hobbs, Halford, Cohen, Chalobah (Majewski 63), Lansbury, Reid, Abdoun (Paterson 63), Mackie (Derbyshire 70), Henderson. Subs: de Vries, Collins, Moussi, Jara.

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Notts hero Samit Patel savours Lord's glory

September 21, 2013, 10:43 am

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NOTTS match-winner Samit Patel was convinced he would not even get to bowl in the Yorkshire Bank 40 final against Glamorgan at Lord's. But he did and duly turned the contest his team's way with figures of three for 21 as Nottinghamshire bowled out Glamorgan for 157 in 33 runs to claim an 87-run victory. Patel, joined by England stars Graeme Swann and Stuart Broad, helped to deliver Nottinghamshire's first victory in a Lord's final since 1989. The slow left-armer said: "I just didn't think I was going to get a bowl today, not with England's number one spinner in the team, so I was pretty happy to get one." Patel broke Chris Cooke and Jim Allenby's threatening stand of 73, turning the ball sharply to bowl both – and kick-start Glamorgan's collapse as they lost their last eight wickets for 49 runs. "People don't think I can spin the ball enough, maybe it hit a pebble," Patel added with a smile. "This (win) is a massive relief, but the boys have deserved it. "We're all in it together. It's a great feeling. "Swanny and Broady played today, and fronted up and were excellent." Others played their parts, notably captain Chris Read (53) whose fifth-wicket stand of 99 with David Hussey ensured a competitive total of 244 for eight after Nottinghamshire had been put in on a cloudy day. "As a team performance, it was outstanding," Patel added. "The boys set a platform then we put the balls in the right area, and got our rewards for it." Read said of Patel: "He was fantastic, to get the mainstays of the batting order. "You've got to look at the wickets he got, and the way he took them. "I thought he was absolutely brilliant."

Davies refuses to condemn referee and says Forest's lack of cutting edge costs them at Doncaster

September 21, 2013, 12:31 pm

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BILLY Davies believes his Nottingham Forest side paid the price for their lack of cutting edge at Doncaster – and refused to condemn referee Andy Haines for failing to award a late penalty. Even Doncaster boss Paul Dickov admitted the Reds should have had a spot kick when Andy Reid was brought down in the box late on. Reid had fired a spectacular goal to make it 2-2 at that point, after Chris Cohen's own impressive strike had cancelled out the first of Federico Macheda's debut double. And Forest might have had the chance to win it, had Haines pointed to the spot following the clumsy challenge from former Forest man James Coppinger. But, after being told that Dickov had admitted it should have been a penalty, Davies responded: "That is good for Paul…" And his own view of the incident was surprisingly coy, as he said: "I think we know that, in the Championship, both sets of supporters scream for everything. Also, in the Championship, both sets of staff in the dugouts, scream for everything. "That is just what happens in the Championship, with regards to the games. We will have a cup of tea, look at the DVD and see if it was or wasn't. But everyone appeals for everything, that is the nature of the game." Davies instead felt Forest's own failure to show cutting edge was decisive. "We lacked a cutting edge. In the first half, we controlled the ball and got to the final third, should have had more shots, should have had a better cross, probably should have had a better final pass – so I think our final third play was disappointing," he said. "We had a goal scored against us, against the run of play, with a counter – which we had talked about – and then, in the second half… we have to learn not to shoot ourselves in the foot, because their second goal came from our bad play. "But we scored two great goals and, in the end, we should have won it, because we had some great chances in the last ten minutes. All in all, a point is a point."

Seven-star Nottingham Panthers too hot for rivals Sheffield

September 21, 2013, 4:29 pm

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HOLDERS Nottingham Panthers sent Sheffield Steelers scuttling back up the M1 after notching up their second Challenge Cup victory over their rivals with a resounding 7-3 (3-1, 1-1, 3-1) scoreline at the National Ice Centre. In a game of 22 minor penalties, it was never going to be a free-flowing classic for the 6,700-plus crowd. But after hitting back from a goal down in the tenth minute, Steve Goertzen tipping in from Dustin Kohl , to take the first period 3-1, Panthers were never headed. And though their forwards and the goalscorers will take much of the credit, it was a Panthers performance based on tremendous penalty-killing, seeing off ten Steelers powerplays including two lengthy 5-on-3s. But while goalie Craig Kowalski had a stormer in conjunction with his D-men, his opposite number Frank Doyle was exposed time and time again by the quick-breaking Panthers forwards. David Clarke – who produced Panthers first real shot of note in the seventh minute -- got them level six minutes later, back-handing home close range on the powerplay when his first attempt came back off Doyle. Steelers put on some pressure of their own but their finishing was woeful and Panthers took full advantage with man of the match Leigh Salters setting up the excellent Matt Francis for goal No.2 (14.58). And just before the first break, Brandon Benedict made it 3-1, swooping on to a clever pass from Matt Ryan after Bob Wren's shot had been saved. Four minutes into the second period, Panthers found themselves two men down but after a great kill, with Kowalski and big d-man Brent Henley prominent, Sheffield pulled one goal back through Maxime Lacroix (27.37) after Ryan's effort had been beaten out at the other end. Following more penalties to both sides, Chris Capraro made it 4-2 (38.31) after a 3-on-1 break, with Steelers caught pushing too many men forward. A mix-up between Benedict and new defenceman Nick Anderson – who did well on his debut – at the start of the final period saw Lacroix make it 4-3. But that was the nearest Steelers were going to get as Panthers turned up the gas. Capraro was on the spot in front again to turn in goal No.5 (49.50) and then Anderson's outlet pass for Salters saw the big winger's precision pass tapped in by Rob Lachowicz (55.20). And, perhaps fittingly, Salters wrapped up victory with the seventh (57.55) after good work by Jonny Boxill on the boards. That's 11 goals Panthers have put past Steelers in their two meetings this season and while Neilson said there was still more to come from his new look team, they are already calling for heads to roll in South Yorkshire. We shall see. *Cardiff Devils' Andrew Conboy – who strangely escaped a five-game ban following a head-butting penalty during a pre-season game against Danish side Esbjerg – will miss their clash with Panthers in South Wales on today (Sunday). The American forward was kicked out of their game with Dundee in the 34th minute for 'physical abuse of an official' and is automatically suspended for at least one game, with perhaps more to follow . . . unless of course it is decided once again that it's a game involving 'foreign' opposition and therefore normal suspension tariffs do not apply . . . And Devils lost 7-0 to the high-flying Scots who stay at the top of the table. PANTHERS 7, SHEFFIELD 3 (3-1, 1-1, 3-1) Capraro 2+1; Salters 1+2; Ryan 0+3; Clarke 1+1; Wren 0+2; Lachowicz, Francis, Benedict 1+0; Weaver, Loyns, Anderson, Henley, Boxill 0+1. Shots on goal: Panthers (on Doyle) 25, Sheffield (on Kowalski) 36 (9/15, 6/13, 10/8) Penalty mins: Panthers 24, Sheffield 20 (12/6, 13/6, 8/10) Panthers man of the match: Leigh Salters Referee: Mike Hicks Attendance: 6,725 Other results: Belfast 5, Braehead 4; Dundee 7, Cardiff 0; Fife 1, Coventry 2 (pen shots); Hull 3, Edinburgh 5.

Ed Balls goes cool on plans for HS2

September 23, 2013, 10:00 pm

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SHADOW Chancellor Ed Balls has said he would not offer a "blank cheque" to a proposed high-speed rail line between Notts and London if Labour win the next General Election.

The former Nottingham High School pupil made the statement during a speech at the Labour Party conference in Brighton yesterday.

The coalition Government wants to build the rail line, called HS2, to provide a 250mph rail link between London and Birmingham from 2026, with further lines to Leeds and Manchester by 2032.

The Government wants a new station for the East Midlands to be built at Toton Sidings as part of the line.

It has been estimated by the Government that the project could cost £40bn, but independent reports have said it could be double that.

In his speech, Mr Balls said: "We continue to back the idea of a new north-south rail link.

"But David Cameron and George Osborne have made clear they will go full steam ahead with this project – no matter how much the costs spiral up and up."

He added: "Labour will not take this irresponsible approach because the question is not just whether a new high-speed line is a good idea or a bad idea, but whether it is the best way to spend £50 billion for the future of our country."

Prices at the pumps

September 23, 2013, 10:00 pm

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The five cheapest places to fill up within ten miles of Nottingham city centre:

Unleaded

1. Asda Nottingham, Loughborough Road, West Bridgford, 133.7p

2. Asda Hyson Green, Radford Road, Hyson Green, 133.7p

3. Morrisons Gamston, Gamston District Centre, Gamston, 133.9p

4. Ruddington Service Station, Loughborough Road, Ruddington, 133.9p

5. Mrh Pierrepoint, Radcliffe Road, Holme Pierrepoint, 133.9p

Diesel

1. Asda Nottingham, Loughborough Road, West Bridgford, 138.7p

2. Asda Hyson Green, Radford Road, Hyson Green, 138.7p

3. Asda Long Eaton Automat, Midland Street, Long Eaton, 138.7p

4. Morrisons Gamston, Gamston District Centre, Gamston, 138.9p

5. Ruddington Service Station, Loughborough Road, Ruddington, 138.9p

For the latest prices, check online at nottinghampost.com.