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Owner's cat dies in arms after alleged dog attack in Carlton

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A WOMAN saw her cat die in her arms as she rushed it to the vet following an alleged dog attack in Carlton. Merlin, a 14-year-old moggy, died after bites to the throat and back and police were told the injuries were a result of an attack from a Staffordshire Terrier off its lead. Owner Marion Clay, 66, of Broadway East, Carlton, then spent two days in hospital herself because of the stress it caused her. "My cat was on the front garden when a Staffordshire Terrier rushed over and bit it on the back and around the throat," she said. "The cat was gasping for breath by the time I got there but the dog's owner drove them away in the car. Merlin died in my arms on the way to the vet. "It's been such a distressing time - I want to make people aware of just how dangerous these dogs can be. I think some dogs should be muzzled or leashed." Mrs Clay owns four cats and says she's never seen any of them attacked like this before. She had spent over £3,000 on treatment for Merlin, a diabetic cat who she took in from a rescue centre, throughout his life. Merlin was rescued as a one-year-old from Millwood Boarding Cattery and Rescue in West Bridgford. "We had nurtured him over his years and it's just a really tragic end for him," added Marion. "There's nothing more we could have done for that cat. He was so lovely, the children on the road used to love playing with him. Mrs Clay said she feels that too many dogs are nurtured in a way that makes them more aggressive than they should be. "I have been a dog owner in the past for years but never had a dangerous breed," she added. "I think people need to be more aware of the damage their dogs can do to other animals - and people too. "There are young children living on this street. What if the dog attacked a child instead of the cat?" The stress caused Mrs Clay to admit herself to the Queen's Medical Centre with a suspected heart attack. She was kept in overnight and has told the Post that she has since visited her GP and is due to undergo more cardiology tests. A spokeswoman for the Nottingham University Hospitals Trust confirmed that Mrs Clay spent Wednesday night in their care. An artist had been booked to paint a portrait of Merlin, who Mrs Clay said was becoming old and frail. Mrs Clay said: "I've always been an animal lover and my daughter is a vet, so this has really upset me and caused me a great deal of stress." Merlin was rushed to the Vets Now in Dunkirk Road, Dunkirk, shortly after 7pm on Tuesday April 1. The vets confirmed the cat was dead when it arrived. Notts Police say the alleged attack has been reported and that inquiries are ongoing. Do you think dangerous dog breeds should be muzzled or leashed? Tell us what you think at opinion@nottinghampost.com.

Owner's cat dies in arms after alleged dog attack in Carlton


Fatal bull attack was 'avoidable', court hears

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THE bull that trampled a walker to death had attacked electricity workers just weeks before and "should have been culled", a court heard. Farmer Paul Waterfall, of Underhill Farm, near Stanford-on-Soar, owned the Brown Swiss bull and is facing a charge of manslaughter by gross negligence. Walker Roger Freeman, 63, died while walking with his wife Glenis, who spent three weeks in hospital following the attack on November 12, 2010. And in an emotional statement read at Nottingham Crown Court on the first day of Waterfall's trial yesterday, the jury heard that a dying Mr Freeman said to his 70-year-old wife: "I'm sorry my baby, I can't get us out of this," after the bull struck. Andrew McGee, prosecuting, said that Waterfall was aware of the risks the bull, named Moonriver Zac Pi, posed and failed in his duty of care to protect people who used the public footpath across his land. He said: "Roger Freeman was killed in entirely foreseeable circumstances. The death was made all the more tragic because it was completely avoidable." The pair of experienced walkers were on a holiday and had spent the night in Nottingham before heading towards Loughborough. The jury was told the couple had walked around 12 miles before crossing the footpath at Waterfall's farm – where Mrs Freeman saw cows and a bull in the field. "The next thing Glenis heard was an 'oof' from Roger and she turned around and she saw Roger on the ground with the bull there," Mr McGee said. She ran from the field and flagged down motorists, who dialled 999. Police and paramedics found Mr Freeman, a father-of-two, face down in the field with only boxer shorts and boots on, with the rest of his clothes scattered at the scene, the court heard. He was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre and a pathologist said he had died from multiple injuries and had fractures to his ribs, shoulders and vertabrae. Mr McGee told the jury of four women and eight men that the bull, known as Zac, was involved in attacks with humans twice in the six weeks running up to the fatal incident. Two contractors from Central Networks attempted to deal with an electrical problem on the farm on October 1, but were chased off the land by Zac. Three weeks later, another engineer was working on the farmland when he noticed the bull "pawing the ground and bellowing". The prosecutor told the court that experts would consider Brown Swiss bulls like Zac a dairy breed which are "noted for their propensity for aggressive behaviour". He added the bull had shown "dangerous, unprovoked behaviour towards people" leading up to the attack. He said that "Zac should have been culled" as soon as he began showing such signs of aggression towards people. The court heard Mr Waterfall had farmed at Underhill Farm for ten years and kept around 500 cattle of various breeds on the 300 acres. He bought Zac in 2009 to breed with his heifers. The bull was destroyed immediately after the fatal attack. Mr Waterfall denies the charge and the trial at Nottingham Crown Court is expected to last four weeks. For more court news, click here.

Fatal bull attack was 'avoidable', court hears

Rupert Cooper signs new deal at Nottingham Rugby

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RUPERT Cooper has signed a new deal with Nottingham Rugby. The flanker, who has made 52 appearances for the Meadow Lane club, has been a key component in the back row for the Green and Whites for the last two seasons, with his swashbuckling style of play making him a firm fan's favourite. Cooper, 26, said: "Nottingham has become my home now and I've really enjoyed my tenure here. "Everyone says it, but there is a great bunch of lads at the club who you want to be around and want to play for. That was a big contributory factor in my decision to sign. "The coaching team are top class and you can see that a strong core squad is being built and retained which breeds confidence. "I was injured for a few months earlier this campaign so I'm determined to make amends, come back better and help get Nottingham back up to where we should be in the league." Nottingham head coach Martin Haag said: "Rupert is a very honest player who wears his heart on his sleeve and gives everything he's got every time he goes on the field. "He leads out our defence and brings a lot of intensity to that side of our game. "He's an excellent member of the squad, on and off the pitch and I'm really pleased that he's staying with us next season."

Rupert Cooper signs new deal at Nottingham Rugby

TV star Peaches Geldof, 25, has died

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Sir Bob Geldof says his family has been left "beyond pain" following the death of his daughter, Peaches Geldof. The 25-year-old TV presenter, who was the second daughter of Sir Bob and the late Paula Yates, died on Monday. The BBC reported that police were called to her home in Wrotham, Kent, where her body was discovered. In tribute to his daughter, musician and Live Aid founder Sir Bob said: "Peaches has died. We are beyond pain. "She was the wildest, funniest, cleverest, wittiest and the most bonkers of all of us. "Writing 'was' destroys me afresh. What a beautiful child. "How is this possible that we will not see her again? How is that bearable? "We loved her and will cherish her forever. How sad that sentence is." Ms Geldof began a media career aged 15, writing a column for Elle magazine. She also worked as a model and attended a launch for Tesco's F&F clothing range in London last week. She was married to musician Thomas Cohen, with whom she had two sons, Astala, one, and Phaedra, who will turn one on April 24. Mr Cohen said: "My beloved wife Peaches was adored by myself and her two sons Astala and Phaedra and I shall bring them up with their mother in their hearts every day. We shall love her forever." Ms Geldof was a prolific user of Twitter and the final message that she sent on Sunday was a picture of her as a child with her mother. The BBC reported that police were treating the death as unexplained. Kent Police confirmed officers were called to an address near Wrotham, Kent following a report of concern for the welfare of a woman on Monday afternoon. She was later pronounced dead by South East Coast Ambulance Service. Kent Police said: "Police were called at 1.35pm on 7 April 2014 to an address near Wrotham following a report of concern for the welfare of a woman. A woman aged 25 was pronounced dead by South East Coast Ambulance Service. "At this stage, the death is being treated as an unexplained sudden death. Officers are working to establish the circumstances around the death."

TV star Peaches Geldof, 25, has died

Firefighters called out to rescue puppy stuck in metal gate

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Animal lover Maria Nolan had to do a double take when she saw firefighters outside her house rescuing her 15-week-old puppy from the front gate. The book keeper, of Eastwood, said her friendly shih-tzu poodle Dexter had got himself into a spot of bother while trying to greet passers-by. He ended up with his head and front paws stuck in the metal gate. Maria's mother Anna, who was in the garden at the time, immediately rang for the fire service's assistance after water and oil was not helping to budge the dog. Maria, 27, of Ratcliffe Street, said: "My mum was washing the front door when it happened. She got some water and olive oil which she rubbed on the bars and on the dog's tummy but it didn't work. "I got back when the firefighters were opening the bars of the gate; I couldn't believe he had got himself trapped. They did a great job keeping him calm and it was such a relief to see him out. I picked him up straight away and gave him cuddles. "He really loved the firefighters, especially when we were having the photo done. He was trying to give them lots of licks. He is really friendly to everyone." Anna said she began to panic when she could not move the dog and called the fire service as a last resort. She said: "Both dogs had been playing in the yard when everything went quiet. I couldn't believe it when I turned round and saw Dexter stuck in the gate. He is a little mischief - always up to something." Tim Marston, watch manager at Eastwood Fire Station, said the crew were greeted by "friendly licks" upon their arrival on Friday afternoon, before using a manually operated cutter spreader to free the dog. He said: "This was the typical action of a mischievous puppy. "It is not an every day occurrence for us but it is common for us to get called out to animal rescues as part of our role. "We were able to come from behind the dog so it couldn't see what we were doing and we forced the gate apart in order for the dog to come out. "We are pleased they called us when they did because it reduced the stress of the animal." Have firefighters ever had to rescue your trapped pet? Tell us below.

Firefighters called out to rescue puppy stuck in metal gate

Petition calling for more help for Beeston businesses hit by tram construction works

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Shoppers can add their weight to a petition calling for more help for businesses affected by tram construction works. Traders located in Chilwell Road, Beeston, and High Road, Chilwell, are eligible for compensation from a joint city and county council fund, if they can prove work to build a new tram line passing their businesses has impacted on takings. But Broxtowe MP Anna Soubry wants the compensation scheme to be expanded to cover businesses in the wider Beeston area as well. She is set to petition for signatures calling on Nottinghamshire County Council to expand its share for the scheme to all shops and businesses affected by the tram work. Miss Soubry said: "We have a growing number of small, independent mainly family run businesses who are on the brink of going bust because of the tram works. Nottingham City Council recognises the need and supports the extension of the compensation scheme. Now we all need to come together and persuade the county council." Miss Soubry has sent the petition out to businesses this week, while she will also be in Beeston town centre gathering signatures from 11am on Saturday, April 12. Julie Cameron, owner of the Cameron House gift shop in Chilwell Road, gave the petition her backing. Ms Cameron said she'd had to claim for compensation every month since Chilwell Road closed in March last year. The work was originally meant to be completed last month, but complications mean it is now expected to finish over the summer. Ms Cameron said: "We've now had the 12 months that were originally planned and the road is still closed. "We are hoping there is light at the end of the tunnel and want to get businesses back to where they were before the tram works. I have no problem with the rest of Beeston being able to claim." She added: "We realise Chilwell Road is the epicentre of the tram works but it's a ripple effect, and I think people are avoiding Beeston because of the works. "If other businesses receive funding, they may survive. It might be too little too late, however, anything is better than nothing. "We want Beeston to prosper as a result of the tram." In October 2013, the county council proposed a £50,000 special hardship fund – split 50/50 between the county and city councils – to help firms recoup their losses. This was in addition to the financial assistance package set up in January 2013 for affected businesses. Miss Soubry announced last month that the city council had agreed to put more money into the £50,000 hardship fund, so it could be made available to all small businesses in the town. The county council also agreed last month to offer an additional £25,000 in compensation, but only to businesses in Chilwell Road and High Road. The county council has called on tram consortium Tramlink Nottingham and its contractors to provide some assistance for traders adversely affected by the works. Andy Warrington, service director for highways at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "The council has recently increased its contribution to the Special Hardship Fund which was set up last autumn to help businesses in the Beeston area affected by tram construction work. "The county's transport and highways committee previously agreed a contribution of £25,000 towards the fund at its meeting in October with the proviso that Nottingham City Council made the same contribution. "On March 20, the committee approved a further payment of £25,000 at a meeting at County Hall." How are the tram works affecting you? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Petition calling for more help for Beeston businesses hit by tram construction works

Notts v Lancashire: County Championship, day two report

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A DEDICATED crowd was given their money's worth at Trent Bridge as a condensed day's play yielded 79 runs and seven wickets to put Nottinghamshire in the driving seat. Just two hours 36 minutes were possible as a brief but powerful storm halted the home side's momentum just before a late tea with Lancashire reeling on 77/6 at the close. Luke Fletcher did the early damage with the new ball in tandem with Harry Gurney. They set about a Lancs line-up that is a batter light and looked as brittle as a Ritz cracker yesterday, admittedly in testing conditions. The visitors had struggled to back up James Anderson on day one as he took yet another five for on a ground he may rank second only to Old Trafford among his favourites. However, Notts found support in reserve as Andy Carter, Steven Mullaney and Jake Ball were all among the wickets, Ball taking his first two in the County Championship. Play finally got under way at 2pm after a morning and early afternoon of intermittent showers, but it was a lively start as three wickets fell for a total of six runs inside 40 minutes. Notts were only able to add two from Carter to their overnight total having resumed on 270 for nine. In fact, the players were back in the pavilion after four balls as Kabir Ali found the top of Gurney's off stump to bowl him for a duck. Carter was unbeaten on 11. Despite being in the ascendency, director of cricket Mick Newell said they have only given themselves a chance in a game that looks set to yield a result. He said: "If Lancashire get near our score they'll feel very much in the game. "There are a lot of overs to play, 200 overs, we've only played 100 or so far. "We've got to make sure we stay on top of our game." Fletcher took the new ball in conditions that strongly favoured the bowlers with the breeze and cloud cover again prevalent. He immediately set about stand-in Lancashire captain Paul Horton, who edged the first ball of the innings just short of the slips. Fletcher's whole first over was on the money as he finished with an LBW appeal that looked a touch too high. Horton was given a chastening time early on and in the end Fletcher got his man for a 22-ball duck as he trapped him in front with one the batsman was looking to whip off his legs. Four for one became four for two as Gurney picked up the mantle, bowling with good pace and aggression. Luis Reece had been given less of an examination than Horton, but he was soon out as well, expertly caught behind by a diving Chris Read for one. It took Lancashire 28 balls to score off Fletcher and when they did the runs were mistimed off the bat of Andrea Agathangelou. The Red Rose number three almost found himself walking back when he was on ten as a Gurney delivery hit the shoulder of the bat but fell just short of a diving Michael Lumb at gully. Agathangelou did lose his wicket for 17 though as he left one in Carter's first over and it knocked the off stump out the ground, reducing the visitors to 33 for three. Ball then got his first Championship wicket on his debut – and it was no bad one as he had former South Africa international Ashwell Prince caught behind for 16 when he prodded at one just outside off stump. He had his second soon after as the crouching Luke Proctor was out LBW for 18 to give Ball figures of two for 25 from his spell, Lancashire 63 for five. Carter had taken a wicket in his first over and Mullaney repeated the feat, his medium pace removing another player with a low centre of gravity in Davies. Mullaney's third ball got through the diminutive wicket-keeper's defence to rip a stump out and his fourth almost yielded another wicket against his former club as Wayne White clipped one just beyond the dive of Phil Jacques at mid-wicket. The question of when tea would be taken, or if it would ever actually be taken, was resolved at 4.36pm as the players went off for bad light with the score 77 for six. The reason why was soon clear as dark clouds drifting towards the Fox Road stand brought with them a brief but potent storm that left puddles on the pitch and sent spectators scurrying for cover. Play was abandoned shortly before 5.15pm with Notts well set to knock Lancashire over cheaply early on day three. Fletcher in particular will fancy topping his best figures last season of 5-52 if given the chance.

Notts v Lancashire: County Championship, day two report

MP says court closure would harm justice

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FEARS have been raised that witnesses could be forced to travel to court on the same trains as the people they are giving evidence against if a court closure goes ahead. The six-week consultation proposes reducing the number and type of cases held in Worksop Magistrates' Court and proposes sending all youth, family, civil and criminal cases to Mansfield. Bassetlaw MP John Mann raised the issue in the House of Commons on Monday. He said: "This is the death of the last remaining court in Bassetlaw – Worksop court – through 1,000 cuts. Bit by bit, justice has been stripped away. "What are the practical implications? In their document, the Government suggest a small journey – a 30-mile round trip – failing to recognise the geographical size of Bassetlaw. It takes more time, to pick an entirely random comparison, to journey across Bassetlaw by car than it does to journey from this place to Basingstoke. "If a person is lucky and buses are available, they could potentially get to Mansfield and the courts in three hours but not in time to turn up for the start of court. Having got there, they would not be able to get back home. "Witnesses wishing to appear in court who do not have access to their own transport will not be able practically to make a return journey and, if they do, on the one train they could take from Worksop that gets to Mansfield in time they would be sitting in the same carriages as those they were giving evidence against." Shailesh Vara, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice, said: "I understand the concern that some of the changes may result in increased travel for victims and witnesses in the north of the county, which is why the criminal justice system is looking at ways to overcome that, especially by making the most of video technology." He added that "no decisions" on the future of the court had been made. For more political news, click here.

MP says court closure would harm justice


Thoresby Colliery: Potential investor steps forward

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THE county's last deep coal mine could be saved by the son-in-law of an Indian billionaire. UK Coal, which owns Thoresby Colliery, is currently seeking roughly £10 million from the Government to pay for the gradual closure of the Edwinstowe pit. The company has previously said that without investment the mine could close at any time, which would result in the loss of more than 500 jobs. However, it is now understood that London-based Zamadini, a resources investor, has tried to open talks with UK Coal over the future of the business. National secretary Chris Kitchen from the National Union of Mineworkers, said: "All we know is that the company Zamadini has been trying to talk to UK Coal to explore if they could invest but they have not had a reply. "They contacted the NUM to see if we knew why UK Coal would not talk to them. "We do not know if this would result in an offer to invest or buy." When asked if Zamadini's investment could save jobs at the site Mr Kitchen added: "That is the hope, although they could be looking to run down the deep mines and keep the surface." Zamadini is headed by Muqit Teja, son-in-law of India mining mogul Pramod Agarwal, who has made hundreds of millions of pounds through his privately owned mining and resources company Zamin Group. When asked about the negotiations and the future of Thoresby Colliery a spokesman from Zamadini said: "Call back in a few days." Sherwood Tory MP Mark Spencer said: "I don't understand why UK Coal would not want to explore this. "Someone from UK Coal management said that there was not enough time to bring it all together. "I am getting increasingly frustrated with UK Coal's senior management team who appear to have made the decision to give up. "They want Government support for closing which is the wrong approach when there are other options on the table. "They should be doing all they can to take any deals that are available to save jobs. "Both parties should have a discussion as soon as possible." UK Coal were unavailable for comment at the time of publication. Do you think Thoresby Colliery can be saved? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nottinghampost.com.

Thoresby Colliery: Potential investor steps forward

So you think you know Nottingham? Tell us where this is!

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How well do you know our city? Tell us where this is! Leave your answers in the comment box below, and we'll reveal the correct answer on our Facebook and Twitter feeds tomorrow. No prizes for the correct answer - just glory! Good luck.

So you think you know Nottingham? Tell us where this is!

Nottingham Prison: Inmates stage protest and refuse to return to cells

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More than 20 prisoners refused to return to their cells during a protest inside HMP Nottingham. Officers at the Perry Road jail struggled for more than two hours to get inmates to follow the rules on Monday. The protest started at 2.20pm and finished around 5pm. However, on the same day, two other prisoners purposely trapped themselves in safety netting and a unrelated fire was also started in a different part of the prison. Assistant secretary Glyn Travis from the Prison Officers Association, said: "In total 23 prisoners were involved in a passive demonstration. "There were also other prisoners in other areas making a nuisance of themselves. "Serious concerns have been raised about the staffing levels at Nottingham due to the incident. "We also believe that the mix of prisoners at Nottingham needs to be reviewed. "There has been an incident in the prison every week for several months now but yesterday had the potential to be serious. "There are critical staffing problems at the prison and this needs to be addressed." Specialist officers were called in to help deal with the situation which ended peacefully with no injuries. Nottingham East MP Chris Leslie said: "In the last 18 months there has been a significant reduction of staff at the prison. "There is no doubt that cutting the number of officers presents a steep challenge to maintain order. "It is very concerning that we are having flare ups like this. "I am going to be finding out more about this incident and also look at the officer ratio at the prison." HMP Nottingham expanded in 2010 to hold 1060 prisoners. It is a community prison which holds prisoners from the surrounding area which allows them to keep close links with their families, offender management services and agencies they engage with. A Prison Service spokesman said: "Specialist prison staff successfully resolved two incidents at HMP Nottingham on Monday, April 7. No staff or prisoners were injured. "Staff at the prison also quickly extinguished a small cell fire that occurred during an unrelated incident. "The fire brigade attended as a matter of routine and no staff or prisoners were injured."

Nottingham Prison: Inmates stage protest and refuse to return to cells

Police searching Gunthorpe Lock after person falls into River Trent

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Police helicopters and fire crews are searching Gunthorpe Lock after a person fell into the River Trent. A police spokesperson said officers were called to the scene, off the A6097 Bridgford Street, at around 12.50 on Tuesday afternoon. The river around Gunthorpe is popular for fishing, walking and cycling and is one of Nottinghamshire's best-known beauty spots.

Police searching Gunthorpe Lock after person falls into River Trent

Bull death trial: Wife's horror after husband killed

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A widow described a fatal attack on her husband by a bull in Nottinghamshire as a "complete and utter nightmare", a court heard today. Glenis Freeman, then aged 67, told police she tried to distract the animal from her husband Roger when it attacked him as they walked on a public footpath running across Underhill Farm in Stanford-on-Soar, in November 2010. Mr Freeman, 63, died at the scene from multiple injuries, while his wife needed surgery for abdominal and chest injuries. Farmer Paul Waterfall, who owns the farm, is on trial at Nottingham Crown Court charged with manslaughter by gross negligence which he denies. Jurors were played a DVD of the interview Mrs Freeman, now 70, gave to police two months after the attack once she had been discharged from hospital. Describing that day, Mrs Freeman told the officer as she was filmed at a relative's home in Long Eaton: "It was as though we were in a nightmare." She said her husband was floored by the bull's attack and could not get up. "Roger said 'It's got me in the groin. I can't get up. I'm sorry Glenis I can't get up'." Mrs Freeman told the police she tried to distract the animal from her husband by putting down her rucksack but it charged at her twice. "One of the times it hit me in the chest", she told the officer. "I don't know how many times it charged Roger." She said the couple had left Nottingham that morning after seeing a show at the theatre the night before. They had planned to walk to Loughborough on November 12 and stay overnight at another hotel before walking on to their home in Glena Parva, Leicestershire. They were walking along the public footpath at around 4.30pm when the attack happened. She told police she was walking ahead when she heard an "oof" from her husband and turned around to see him on the floor with the bull over him. Mrs Freeman said she tried to distract the bull and at one point tried to get between her husband and the animal when it attacked her. "I felt like one time it was sitting on me. I think I was being rolled over as well. It then left me and went back to Roger." Describing the bull, she said: "He was brown. It was slobbering a lot. I think it looked at me straight in the face. It looked as though, it wasn't being playful, but it looked like it was wound up somehow, it looked excited. It wasn't just a calm bull standing there... it looked excited." Mr Freeman, who was by this point wearing just his underpants and walking boots, shouted to her to go and get help. "The last time Roger said anything at all he shouted out 'I'm sorry my baby, I can't get us out of this'," Mrs Freeman told the officer. "We both had said 'This is like a nightmare'. "The bull was attacking Roger. I think it was tossing him. It turned him around and that was when he shouted out. He was saying his goodbyes and I think he knew he wasn't going to be saying...," Mrs Freeman then broke off. A keen walker since the age of 18, she told police she had walked through fields with cows in them many times before but said: "I had never been in a situation like that before - never. I was absolutely petrified." Mrs Freeman ran from the field and flagged down a female motorist who called for an ambulance. She was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham where she had surgery. Paramedics found Mr Freeman, a father-of-two, face down in the field. He was declared dead at the scene and taken to hospital where tests confirmed he had died from multiple injuries including fractures to his ribs and shoulders. Mrs Freeman told the police: "I just keep thinking how could I have left him. How could I have walked out of the field and left him but I know he (Roger) wanted me to go and get help." Prosecutors claim Mr Waterfall, 39, knew the bull, named Moonriver Zac Pi, posed a "deadly risk" to walkers who used the public footpath. Known as Zac, the 19-month-old Brown Swiss bull had been involved in two previous incidents just weeks before the alleged fatal attack on Mr Freeman, prosecutor Andrew McGee told the jury. Mr McGee told the court yesterday the bull had charged at three electrical engineers who had come to carry out work on the farmland and Waterfall allegedly told them that Zac was a "nasty and aggressive bull" that "kept walkers on their toes". During his opening, Mr McGee said: "As a farmer, Mr McGee had a duty of care to those who used the public footpath. Paul Waterfall had that duty of care and knew his bull posed a real risk of death to people using that path." He added that Waterfall, of Underhill Farm, had been "grossly neglectful" in failing to take any steps to prevent that risk. "The death was made all the more tragic because it was completely avoidable," Mr McGee told the jury. Waterfall was charged with gross negilgence manslaughter last year following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive. It is alleged he breached his duty of care to the public by failing to ensure the bull was safely confined on his land. The trial continuesFor the latest crime news, click here.

Bull death trial: Wife's horror after husband killed

Torvill and Dean's surprise appearance in Nottingham's Mass Bolero

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THERE'S nothing more annoying for a film crew than stragglers wandering into the shot. Especially when more than 100 members of the public have spent over an hour polishing the final scene of Torvill and Dean's Olympic gold medal Bolero routine in the Old Market Square. Crowds of curious onlookers are moved back but as the cameras roll a tall chap in a blue jacket and jeans and a blonde woman in a fluorescent pink jacket and leopard print shoes stray into the scene. But instead of the man with the megaphone shouting cut, there's looks of surprise all round when the crowd spot that the interlopers are none other than the Nottingham ice dance legends whose iconic steps they're recreating. Today's ten second film clip in front of the Council House is part of Nottingham Playhouse's Mass Bolero project which has seen dozens of community groups each performing a short segment of the famous ice dance for an eight-minute film in celebration the 30th anniversary of Torvill and Dean's Olympic triumph in Sarajevo. Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, who are back on home turf for the final live tour of Dancing on Ice at the Capital FM Arena, said they loved the idea of the tribute. Chris said: "It's a really interesting project they're putting together. We can't wait to see the finished film when it all comes together with all these different groups and people doing different parts of the Bolero. It's a real celebration for us." With all those daring lifts and tricky moves, which group are faced with the most challenging segment? Chris said: "If anybody's doing the splits, that'll be hard." Jayne revealed how hard the opening of Bolero is on their knees and she hoped those performing the final scene were careful as they dive onto the concrete in the Square. Children, pensioners, teenagers and businessmen gathered to film the finale. Those who weren't already a couple were paired with a stranger for the routine but rehearsing the moves – left foot in front, then down on one knee and diving to the right – soon broke the ice. Wearing a smart black suit, blue shirt and tie, Boots manager Adam Coventry became Dean to his wife Karen's Torvill. Joined by daughters Amelia, six, and Olivia, eight, Adam, 41, from West Bridgford, said: "Everyone is a fan of Torvill and Dean. It's really good Nottingham is doing something to mark the 30th anniversary." With the rehearsal taking so long, some of the younger participants begin performing cartwheels and flips not associated with the Bolero to pass the time. "Can we go to McDonald's now?" Amelia pleads with her mum. Taking part in the Mass Bolero proved too good an opportunity to miss for six super fans, who met via Twitter and then in person two years ago on the Dancing on Ice live tour. Evy Strauwem, 35, who has come over to the UK from Belgium especially for the final tour, can't believe her idols are standing right next to her at one point. She raved: "I like everything about them. I know the routine by heart. It gives me goose bumps, it's so exciting." A-level student Sophie Laws, from Cornwall, said: "It's nice to be a part of it even though we're not from here." And ice skater Taryn Davison, 26, from London, added: "We must have seen them 20-30 times. I absolutely love Chris' choreography – they skate as one person." Medical PA Tina Smith, who works at the Queen's Medical Centre, teamed up with colleague Claudia Kuster, who recalled watching the Olympic win as a child in Germany: "I got my skates and went out to do what they did." The duo revealed they had been practising the moves ahead of the mass gathering. "I think we will have bruises by the end of the day," said Tina. "Torvill and Dean put Nottingham on the map and inspired so many people to take up ice skating." Sadly it proved too much for Fiona Watson, from Lenton, who gave it her best shot but had to pull out. The 57-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, said: "I'm a big fan of Torvill and Dean and I thought it was really important to support this because it brings everyone together. People need to have fun. "I might be able to get down on the ground but you would have to get me up!" Other sequences from the Mass Bolero will feature sportsmen, a carnival troupe, librarians, an over 60s dance group and the emergency services. Participants are recreating the dance on their home ground, rather than the ice. And instead of Torvill and Dean's famous purple costumes, they will be wearing their work clothes, sports gear or dance outfits. The community film – the idea of Nottingham Playhouse's associate director Fiona Buffini – has attracted phenomenal interest with hundreds of people wanting helping to create a piece of Nottingham history. Fiona said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to every single person across the city and county who have taken part in this incredible project. "I have been overwhelmed by the commitment and enthusiasm shown by all our groups. They have paid tribute to Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, two of our finest, in the most unique way. The film has turned into a celebration of Nottinghamshire and the people who live and work here." Cancer researchers from Nottingham Trent University, children from Oakfield school, Notts Police and staff from Wollaton Hall feature in different segments. The graceful moves of T&D took two burly rugby players well and truly out of their comfort zone. David Jackson, who retired from the sport last December, paired up with hooker Shaun Malton. The two were filmed in the stripy green and white kit at the rugby ground in Meadow Lane. David said: "I was Torvill, he was Dean. "He lifted me above his head. Did I feel safe? I did in Shaun's hands. "We've seen a little bit of it and it does look quite good. People will laugh but we gave it our best. It's a great privilege. "We love to get involved in stuff like this." The performance wouldn't be complete without the famous row of perfect sixes and standing ovation from the crowd so some of Nottingham's most recognisable clubs, organisations and companies are assuming the role. Nottingham Forest, Notts County FC, Newark Air Museum, Boots, the National Ice Arena and the Nottingham Post will appear. Even though it's the last few crucial weeks of the football season, Notts County FC jumped at the chance to take part. A club spokesman said: "The club was delighted to be asked to be involved in the event that means a lot to the city of Nottingham, 30 years on. "We are sure other organisations will get behind and support the project and help create a legacy from two of Nottingham's famous legends in Torvill and Dean." The film will show Torvill and Dean's full involvement when it premieres at the launch of the neat14 (Nottingham European Arts and Theatre Festival) at the Playhouse on May 23. Tickets are free for showings at 6pm and 8pm but must be reserved. Call the box office on 0115 9419419. The film will also be shown on Notts TV when it launches the following week and after that will be released with the hope that it will go viral.

Torvill and Dean's surprise appearance in Nottingham's Mass Bolero

Road closures hit small businesses in Ruddington

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The owner of a village cafe has revealed she was making as little as £20 day as a result of planned road works in the area. Lisa Grace, 40, who owns Grace's Cafe in High Street, Ruddington told the Post that over the past week she has seen a 90 percent fall in trade and that keeping her shop open has actually been costing her money. "The road closure has had quite a dramatic effect on our trade. We normally take home between £150 to £200 a day but we have been struggling to make £20 to £30. We can't buy in stock, we can't pay rent and our unsold produce is going out of date. "It was costing more money to open but I was worried if we closed we might lose more customers - we were just trying to keep a sense of normality. When we first moved in here we paid some rent in advance and we are now relying on that to help see us through, we are hoping to recoup the money at some point," said Mrs Grace. She added: "The road does look nice and smooth now but I think it could have been done a bit quicker. I came into the shop on Sunday and saw no road works taking place, that really would have been an ideal time to get some work done as most of the shops in Ruddington are closed then." Nottinghamshire County Council closed four roads to traffic so that they could be resurfaced due to their deteriorating condition. Work began on High Street, Wilford Road, Easthorpe Street and Church Street on Sunday March 29. The Red Heart landlady, Bhavna Patel, 35, also reported 50 percent drop in foot fall at her pub in Easthorpe Street. She said: "Trade has slowed down especially at the weekend. People assume that they won't be able to get access, also they have made it all a one way system so I don't think people can be bothered so they just stay at home. "The roads do look a lot better, they were full of pot holes before and in the long run it is better that they did it all at once. If they would have staggered it, it would have been dragged out for a lot longer." It's not just businesses that have been affected by the road closures, commuters have also felt the impact. Steven Gray, 27, who lives in Nobel Road, Clifton and drives to Ruddington industrial park every day said: "Due to the road closure in Clifton I have to detour around the back of Clifton to get into Ruddington and with the main road closed in Ruddington the diversion around the side streets is very awkward with cars parked either side and buses trying to navigate down those streets. This causes major delays, making a 10 minute into a 30-40 minute journey." Nottinghamshire County Council's highways team apologised for the inconvenience but said they had taken the decision to resurface all four roads at the same time to minimise further disruption in the future. Dave Walker from the team, said: "We understand the concerns raised by local traders about the road resurfacing works which will involve some disruption over a two-week period. "Rather than return a number of times to carry out the resurfacing works to each street, we decided to carry out the works in one go to prevent long-term disruption. "Whilst there may be some short-term disruption to local businesses, the resurfaced roads will greatly benefit the area as a whole once they are completed." The road works are still on schedule to be completed by Sunday April, 13. What is traffic like where you live? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more Ruddington news, click here

Road closures hit small businesses in Ruddington


Tom Calladine signs new deal at Nottingham Rugby

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NOTTINGHAM Rugby have confirmed Tom Calladine has signed a one-year contract extension to keep him at the club until 2015. The 24-year-old back rower is a homegrown talent that has risen through the ranks of the club's academy to make a big impact on the first team, including captaining the side twice. He has made 54 appearances for the club and has scored seven tries. He began his rugby journey at his hometown club Mansfield RFC and also spent a summer learning the intricacies of back row play in New Zealand with Linwood RFC. He has also represented England at Under-16 and Under-18 level. "I'm really pleased to have signed a new deal with the club," he said. "It's been a tough old season but we're looking to rebuild and push on next season. "Things are definitely looking up, our form has been improving and we're starting to look more like a team and we've got key players in the key positions that can help to push us on next year. "Martin (Haag) staying at the club has been very important for me as he's a very high calibre coach. "People around the club know how good he is and so do people outside of the club. "He's perhaps not quite had the resources to kick on this season, but with the new signings and the lads that have been confirmed for next season, I think he knows he's going to have a good pool of players to choose from, with a good blend of youth and experience, that can help us get back to where we're capable of being. "The 'next generation' of Nottingham Rugby players – myself, Joe Cobden, Joe Munro, Rupert Cooper, Ryan Hough – have all been here for three years now and have gone from being the new kids on the block to key players in the squad, intertwining with the senior players to help move the club forwards. "It's exciting and I'm looking forward to next year already." Nottingham head coach Martin Haag said: "Tom is a local lad who has come through the club's academy to make his mark and he has done tremendously well. "He has a superb attitude, incredible passion and he leads by example on and off the field. "The way he conducts himself reflects well on himself and others and he is an example of how to make the most of your talent. "He has lots of potential and I'm delighted that he will continue growing into the player he wants to be, with Nottingham."

Tom Calladine signs new deal at Nottingham Rugby

Mansfield Town duo Ben Hutchinson and Ian Deakin join in charity cycle ride

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MANSFIELD Town striker Ben Hutchinson and goalkeeper Ian Deakin are the latest personalities who have agreed to take part in a gruelling bike challenge from London to Amsterdam this summer. Stags' Chairman John Radford will lead the group on their epic cyclathon in June, which has been arranged by the Football League in aid of Prostate Cancer UK. Mr Radford will also be joined on the quest by Mark Stevenson (Head of Media & Communications), Stuart Eggleshaw (Scoreboard Operator) and Doug Carroll (better known as Sammy the Stag). The group of six will depart Leyton Orient's Matchroom Stadium on Friday, June 6 and ride through the Suffolk countryside to Harwich, before boarding an overnight ferry to the Netherlands. On Saturday, they will battle against fatigue to cycle a further 60 miles to their destination, the Amsterdam Arena, which is home to four-time European Cup champions AFC Ajax. Former Celtic striker Ben Hutchinson said: "The ride is for a good cause; prostate cancer affects a lot of people. It'll also be great for my fitness, heading into next season!" Added goalkeeper Ian Deakin: "My family has been affected by cancer, albeit not prostate, but it's important to raise awareness about cancer on the whole." You can sponsor by donating via www.justgiving.com/mansfieldtownfc. Every donation is most appreciated by Mansfield Town Football Club and Prostate Cancer.

Mansfield Town duo Ben Hutchinson and Ian Deakin join in charity cycle ride

Gunthorpe Lock: Emergency crews stand down after River Trent fall report

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Emergency crews have been stood down following reports that a person fell into the River Trent at Gunthorpe Lock. Fire crews, an ambulance, police divers and police officers were called to the riverside at 12.50pm. However, all emergency crews were stood down at around 4pm. The path running alongside the river remained open throughout the operation. Andrew Kent, 72, retired, was at the riverside when the action unfolded. "I saw the police here when I was driving up and obviously wondered what had happened. "Then we (Mr Kent and his wife) walked down and saw the crews and divers in the river. "We guessed they were looking for something or someone. "The river is pretty fast flowing round here and I hope it was a false alarm." Mr Kent's wife Jane, 70, said: "Your first thought is oh my god what has happened?" But she added that as emergency crews were stood down and got into their vehicles, she felt as if "nothing serious had happened."

Gunthorpe Lock: Emergency crews stand down after River Trent fall report

Lee Westwood feels in world-topping form ahead of Masters

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LEE Westwood believes he is finally approaching the form which saw him become world number one, despite arriving at the year's first major championship 37th in the rankings. Worksop-born Westwood overtook Tiger Woods at the end of October 2010 and held top spot for a total of 22 weeks in two spells before losing it to fellow Englishman Luke Donald at the end of May 2011. The 40-year-old has slowly slid down the rankings ever since and failed to win a tournament in 2013, most notably finishing third in the Open Championship at Muirfield after taking a two-shot lead into the final round. He split from coach Sean Foley – who also works with the likes of Woods and US Open champion Justin Rose – at the end of last year after just seven months together, but hopes new coach Mike Walker and old caddie Billy Foster can help rediscover the long game which had always been his biggest asset. "My game is really good and Thursday's round was definitely the best I have played tee to green in two years," Westwood said after finishing 17th in last week's Shell Houston Open. "I'm just pleased to be starting to hit the ball good again because I have been struggling for about a year to a year and a half now. "I'm hitting the ball very well and that's important going into any major." Westwood insists there is no need to panic over his world ranking, especially having previously recovered from a dramatic loss of form a decade ago which saw him slip outside the top 250. And he is relishing contesting the US Masters at Augusta National, which begins on Thursday, where he was second in 2010, 11th in 2011, third in 2012 and eighth last year. "I first went there in 1997 so I know the course very well," Westwood added. "I'm excited to be going back. "It's nice that it has come around again because it is such a long time since the US PGA Championship, and the fact there are only four majors a year. "I feel when I do drive up to the front gates I know the place very well and it's a golf course where I can walk onto the first tee feeling comfortable with where I am. That's shown in my results in recent years." Heavy rain was forecast for Augusta on Monday but Westwood's decision not to be at the course was down to routine rather than the weather. "I've being doing that the past few years, not arriving until Tuesday as you can get too wrapped up in all that is going on that week," he added. "You have to pace yourself." The chances of Westwood winning a first major title at the 64th attempt have been boosted by the absence of four-time champion Woods, who withdrew last week having undergone surgery on a pinched nerve in his back. But with favourite Rory McIlroy coming into form at the right time with a closing 65 in Houston – where Sergio Garcia also finished third – Westwood does not believe Woods' absence has changed the goalposts. "No, not really," Westwood added. "He's never worried me. It will be interesting he's not playing but then there are so many other good players who can win." That certainly appears the case judging by recent results on the PGA Tour, with Zach Johnson the only player among the world's top ten to have won a strokeplay event this season. World number four Jason Day won the WGC-Match Play championship in February but has not played since due to a thumb injury, although the Australian has declared himself fit for Augusta, where he was second on his debut in 2011 and third behind compatriot Adam Scott last year. Open champion Phil Mickelson and US Open winner Justin Rose have also been hampered by injuries this season, while Scott blew a seven-shot lead at the halfway stage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational last month. All that means the 24 rookies – the most since the second Masters in 1935 – have a great chance to become the first player since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979 to win on their Masters debut, while the likes of Victor Dubuisson, Joost Luiten and Stephen Gallacher will be hoping to also become Europe's first winner since Jose Maria Olazabal in 1999.

Lee Westwood feels in world-topping form ahead of Masters

Nottingham Panthers forward Jonathan Boxill added to Great Britain squad

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GREAT Britain head coach Doug Christiansen has called Nottingham Panthers forward Jonathan Boxill and Braehead Clan forward Matt Haywood into his squad ahead of this weekend's matches against Netherlands. The duo have stepped up after Belfast Giants forward Craig Peacock had to pull out of the squad through injury. GB play Netherlands at Ice Sheffield on Saturday (7.30pm) and in the Skydome in Coventry on Sunday (5.15pm). The now 29-man squad will be cut to 23 for the World Championship (Division 1B) in Vilnius. GB will face hosts Lithuania, along with Croatia, Netherlands, Poland and Romania, from 20th to 26th April. Christiansen said: "Losing Craig Peacock is a massive blow. He is a great player and has been instrumental in our recent success. "He was a dominant player in Japan and Slovenia. We will miss him greatly. "But the loss of Craig gives two new players a chance to compete for a spot on the team. "Boxill and Haywood are two up-and-coming players. "Boxill is a player that does all the little things. I am looking forward to seeing them compete this weekend."

Nottingham Panthers forward Jonathan Boxill added to Great Britain squad

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