Nottingham Post Latest Stories Feed

FAMILY and friends of a three-year-old girl with a rare form of cancer are putting on a concert to raise money for vital treatment. At only 20 months old, Sienna Riley was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of the disease that attacks the body's nerve cells. Despite receiving care at Great Ormond Street Hospital, there is still an 80% chance the disease could return after her treatment ends in September. Sienna was diagnosed with neuroblastoma stage 4 cancer - the most severe form of the disease. The survival rate in children less than a year old with Neuroblastoma stage 4 cancer ranges between 50% to 80%, which drastically decreases in children aged one or over. Now, her relatives in Long Eaton are planning to hold a concert to pay for additional care abroad. Detox treatment available in Germany could help manage her symptoms, but the costs, which would include flying from the family home in Essex, could reach up to £25,000. Additional antibody and proton therapy on offer in the US could cost up to £500,000. Sienna's aunt Sarah Hancox, 31, of Ruskin Avenue, Long Eaton, started the campaign last year to give her niece as much of a chance as possible. She said: "She's been through so much, in and out of hospital all the time, the family have been torn apart. "I set up the appeal last July just to do something positive. "We don't know with this type of cancer whether treatment is going to work but it's still worth a try." So far, family, friends and supporters have managed to make just short of £10,000 through taking part in the London Marathon, holding fashion shows and putting on other local events. The Sienna Showcase in May, will feature songs and routines from films and musicals as well as comedy sketches and a charity raffle, performed by a variety of local entertainers. Sienna's mother-in-law Bren Davies, 57, of Hawthorne Avenue, Long Eaton has helped organise the event. She said: "We're just trying to get as many friends and colleagues to take part as possible." Bren's brother Peter Yates, 58, of Woodside Crescent, Long Eaton, is directing the show. He said: "It would be fantastic if we're supported and sell lots of tickets because Sienna is such a beautiful little girl." Showcase for Sienna takes place on May 17 at the Soldiers and Sailors Club, Long Eaton. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £7.50 and £7. To book yours call 07463 562 925 or by visiting Prostart in 28 High Street, Long Eaton. To donate to the Sienna Riley appeal visit gofundme.com/3j2cg4. Are you interested in helping out with Sienna's Showcase? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Family stage show for girl battling rare form of cancer

PRIEST Keith Hebden ended 40 days and nights of fasting for Lent by calling for an annual act of solidarity with people who cannot afford decent meals. "I'd love us to have an annual day of fasting called by the archbishops," said father-of-two Dr Hebden, 38, who lost a stone and a half during almost six weeks of living on water, fruit juice and indigestion tablets. "Some 2,500 local people took part in the National Day of Fasting on April 4, as part of the End Hunger Fast campaign. An annual day of fasting would draw attention to the people who are now relying on food banks." The Mansfield clergyman's fast, which began on Ash Wednesday and ended on Sunday – Palm Sunday – was intended to draw attention to the campaign launched in February by 43 Church leaders including the Bishop of Sherwood, the Rt Rev Tony Porter. End Hunger Fast's key demands are a benefit system that proofs claimants against hunger, wages that allow workers to provide properly for their families, and markets in which nobody profits while others struggle to afford healthy food. The closest Dr Hebden came to a treat during his fast was the water his family's vegetables were boiled in. "But I did have to take some Gaviscon for a few days because I had a bad acid build-up," he said. "A lot of people were surprised to see me still standing at the end of it, but my wife says I've not moaned." Dr Hebden, social justice campaigner and associate minister at St Mark's and St Peter's, Mansfield, said: "People have been really supportive." He's still eating light, with eggs and bananas. So what was he like to live with? "He's been pretty calm most of the time," said pastoral assistant Ruth Harris, who with her partner Ellie Wilde also lives at St Mark's vicarage. "I think he valued sleep because he said there were times he wasn't sleeping very well." Ruth and Ellie have also made a point by surviving Lent on the money that buys the average emergency pack supplied to claimants at food banks. It works out at £2.50 per person per day. "In a way I think we were still privileged because we have a fridge and freezer and we can cook for ourselves," said Ruth. "We've not eaten too badly, and made lots of things with beans and lentils." The money the couple have saved by slashing their food budget will be donated to food bank charity The Trussell Trust and the Edible Churchyards project, which is using church land for community fruit and vegetable cultivation. Will End Hunger Fast help those on the breadline? Share your views on nottinghampost.com

Priest calls for annual event as 40 day fast comes to an end

Imperial Tobacco plans to close its factory in Lenton Industrial Estate, meaning 540 people will lose their jobs. The group claimed the declining number of sales in the UK, increasing regulation and growth in illegal trade had hit the company hard and meant it had to restructure its European operations. But this could lead to the Nottingham factory, where 540 people are employed, closing down and production relocating to other European factories. Alison Cooper, chief executive of Imperial Tobacco, said: "The prospect of job losses is always regrettable and we will be doing all we can to support employees and ensure that they are treated in a fair and responsible manner." The factory, on Thane Road, has the capacity to make 36 billion cigarettes a year, but Imperial Tobacco claims it only expects to produce 17 billion in 2014. Do you work at Imperial Tobacco in Beeston? How do you feel about the closure? Let us know in the comments.

Imperial Tobacco to close Nottingham factory

ANDREW Marr, 25, of Cloverdale, Cotgrave, has pleaded guilty to harassment. He sent various Snapchat messages to a woman on March 5. At Nottingham Magistrates' Court, he was handed a community order and supervision from the probation service for 12 months. A restraining order was imposed to stay away from the victim. He was ordered to pay a £60 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Nottingham man pleads guilty to harassment by Snapchat

Imperial Tobacco has announced plans to close its factory in Lenton - putting 540 jobs under threat. The site on Thane Road, in Lenton Industrial Estate, became a prime target for "company restructuring" as it has only been producing half the cigarettes it is capable of. But Imperial Tobacco have also blamed declining sales, increased regulation and growth in illegal trade for a proposed closure of the factory by 2016. The Unite Union has promised to fight the plans, calling the move "callous" and accusing the firm of "dumping" Nottingham workers for cheaper labour in Eastern Europe. Unite national officer Rhys McCarthy said: "Social dumping is increasingly being used by greedy corporations, as bosses look to increase profits while sacking people and shipping jobs to low wage countries. "We will fight this closure and will be urgently seeking meetings with the company." But Imperial Tobacco has promised to treat employees in "a fair and responsible manner." The 90 office employees will escape the cuts, but will be relocated. Consultations have begun with the other 540 staff in preparation to shut the factory within two years. Imperial Tobacco has almost 130 years of history in Nottingham, having its origins in John Player's first factory, opened in 1877. Derek Bergin, 56 from West Bridgford, said it was a sad and shocking day. "It really is a shame," he said. "It was a great company for local people and a big employer over the years, hiring thousands of people. But the amount of production just kept declining and there is nothing you can do about that. It is just very sad."

Imperial Tobacco: Union vows to fight Nottingham closure

EXCITABLE cocker spaniel Willow is hoping to bounce her way to a top spot in this year's Bark in the Park competition.

The 18-month-old dog and owner Chris Weaver were in Woodthorpe Park yesterday when they decided to enter The Post's competition, which is searching for the cutest canine in Notts.

But posing for a photograph does not come easily for the chocolate-brown pooch, who was far too energetic to sit still even for a few seconds.

Chris, 48, of Sherwood, said: "Willow just loves everybody and everything; there's not an ounce of harm in her. She is a bit of a nuisance, though, and will land herself in other people's picnics to say hello."

Chris, who also entered his four-year-old cocker spaniel, Sapphire, into the competition, said he was looking forward to seeing his prized pooches appear in The Nottingham Post. "Both of them love playing ball, it's their favourite thing to do. They will chase them for hours and I always get tired before they do. I think they are winners," he said.

Every dog that is entered into the competition will have its photograph taken, which will appear in a special supplement on May 13.

Members of the public will then vote for the cutest canine, and the top three will win a prize.

Yvonne Dragun, 46, of Sherwood, entered Ben, her eight-year-old border collie cross, into the competition.

She said: "Ben loves other dogs and children. He is usually well-behaved but he does have his mischievous moments. He also loves chasing squirrels but never catches them, luckily.

"Why not enter Bark in the Park? It is a bit of fun. I think he is an attractive dog. We are proud of him."

Craig Thomas, one of the Bark in the Park photographers, said: "They were all so cute. I didn't want to take pictures of them, I just wanted to pet them.

"It is really nice to see how much the owners love their dogs and how much they care about them."

Barry Cooper, social media executive at the Post, said more than 40 dogs were entered into the competition yesterday.

He said: "It has been nice to see so many people coming out in the sun shine. We have had some lovely dogs and a wide variety of breeds. We would urge all dog owners to come down to Colwick Park on Tuesday."

For full details on how to enter your prized pooch, see Page 36.

NOT having a high speed rail station in the East Midlands would be "unthinkable", according to a business leader. And transport minister Baroness Kramer added that places like Nottingham needed a "fair whack" of benefits that HS2 could bring. Peter Richardson, chairman of D2N2, was speaking as transport minister Baroness Kramer toured the region to see how HS2 will impact the area. Mr Richardson said: "It's critical to our area. "It's critical because we need an international gateway to enhance the international gateway at East Midlands Airport when we have the opportunity to build growth hubs for logistics and around a rail centre and an airport, it gives us the sort of economy that we can develop thousands of jobs from. "No HS2 station in the East Midlands is unthinkable for us." But Mr Richardson conceded the plans were not universally popular. He added: "I don't minimise the impact upon residents but theres's lots we can do to help residents come to terms with it and help them embrace how we can make the station a site that we can all be proud of. "It's about creating growth for jobs and industry and they tend to centre around where it's easy to get international access. "So HS2 at Toton or Derby and East Midlands Airport give us that facility." The Department for Transport has named Toton as the preferred site for the East Midlands Station, but is facing competition from people in Derby who would like to see it built there. When quizzed about whether the East Midlands station would be coming to Toton or Derby, Baroness Kramer replied that "nothing is cast in stone". But it's not only economic growth that is promised by the Government from HS2, it's also solving capacity issues. She said: "When you go from London to Birmingham, that is a capacity issue and that's critical. "For the Midlands, there's an element of capacity, but it's much more this rebalancing of the whole UK economy by providing the underpinning infrastructure. "When you go and talk to the leadership of communities in Derby and Nottingham they can see how this combination of HS2 gives us new opportunities to build the economic future of the area. "We have neglected it for something like three generations and it's about time the Midlands and the North got their fair whack at this and the UK as a whole needs it to happen." She added that connectivity between the new HS2 station and Derby and Nottingham was also important. The options on the table are for an extension to the tram line, a train shuttle service, buses and tram trains. Mrs Kramer said: "Connectivity is absolutely key, particularly as we come north of Birmingham because it's that connectivity, the linking not just of HS2 to the key cities, and I talk here particularly about Derby and Nottingham, but connectivity right across the north and the midlands, building off that framework that HS2 provides. "The business case (for HS2) simply gets stronger as we engage more with local businesses and the local authorities and they start to come forward and say building off the back of HS2 and the increased connectivity we can start to bring in new business and new housing." What do you think of HS2? E-mail opinion@nottinghampost.com

Business leaders and government minister make case for HS2

PROSTITUTES, shoplifters and even someone who assaulted a child have applied for jobs in schools in Nottinghamshire over the past three years. Other crimes committed by those wanting to work with children include assaulting a police officer, growing cannabis and racially aggravated criminal damage. The Post can reveal that Criminal Records Bureau checks flagged up the crimes of 779 people when they applied for positions in schools in the city and county since 2011. This figure includes 164 convicted of thefts, 39 assaults, 33 instances of loitering for prostitution, and ten for soliciting prostitutes. Parent Jacky Turton, 32, of Owthorpe Road, Cotgrave, said she was "amazed" that someone who had been given a caution for child cruelty wanted to try and work with children. The mother-of-two added: "It's just staggering really – there's no way I'd want to see people guilty of prostitution and things like that working with my children. "I don't think having a criminal record should stop people from working, but I'm amazed that some people are so daft to think it would be okay to work in a school if you've committed a crime against a child in the past." The criminal offences were discovered when the past records of applicants were looked at by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) or the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The information provided by the Home Office under Freedom of Information laws relates to people applying for posts in schools including teachers, teaching assistants, caretakers and dinner ladies. Nottinghamshire County Council's service director for education standards, John Slater, said: "The enhanced DBS check is one of a range of checks undertaken by recruiting managers to determine the suitability of applicants to be employed in schools. "In the event that a DBS certificate highlights an offence has been committed, the recruiting manager will undertake a detailed risk assessment to determine whether the offences would preclude the applicant from being employed in a school. "This would consider a range of issues including the age of the applicant at the time the offence was committed, any recurrence of offending behaviour, the nature of the offence and the time elapsed since it was committed. "There are certain offences which would prevent an applicant seeking work within the children's workforce and these individuals may be the subject of specific barring orders." A city council spokesman said: "Keeping Nottingham children safe from risk and harm is, of course, one of the most important things we do and there are rigorous systems in place to ensure that anyone wishing to work with children is thoroughly vetted. "The results of the Freedom of Information request demonstrate that the process is working and school leaders are able to make informed decisions about the people they employ." Are you shocked by the findings? Email opinion@nottinghampost.com

Prostitutes apply for jobs in Nottinghamshire schools

Crimestoppers is offering a £5,000 reward for anyone who provides anonymous information about an assault on a 64-year-old man in his Hucknall home. Three masked men forced their way into the house, in Auckland Road, at about 8.30pm on Tuesday, April 1. Nothing was stolen but the occupants, a couple in the 60s, were left battered and bruised, and traumatised by the ordeal. Following an initial witness appeal Nottinghamshire Police released an image of the man's injuries, which included a suspected broken nose and cheekbone as well as a fractured hand. Now crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £5,000 for anyone who provides anonymous information directly to the charity leading to a conviction. Detective Inspector Phil Sims said: "Someone out there knows who did this. You've seen the picture of the appalling injuries the victim suffered. He fought as best he could against the three intruders so they wouldn't harm his wife, but they made him pay for that bravery. "These are violent men unconcerned by the consequences of their actions. Tell us who they are so they can't hurt anyone else. "This reward may offer an extra incentive to someone who has been unwilling or undecided about coming forward before now. "If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please call us." Gemma Wilson, of Crimestoppers, said: "Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in finding those responsible for this violent attack. "Contact Crimestoppers anonymously and tell us what you know, not who you are. Your anonymity is 100 per cent guaranteed, no one will ever know you contacted us." If you have any information that can help the investigation contact 101 or, to be eligible for the reward, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Rewards are received in a way that maintains your anonymity. Information given directly to the police or via the Crimestoppers website will not qualify.For the latest crime news, click here.

Crimestoppers offer £5,000 reward for information on Hucknall attack

John West thinks about the Hillsborough disaster everyday. The lifelong Nottingham Forest fan was in the stands behind the goal opposite the Leppings Lane terrace, where the tragedy unfolded. The first-aider tried to get onto the pitch to help, but says he was prevented from doing so. "It was horrific," said the 70-year-old, of Bulwell. "I could see there was a problem soon after kick-off. "The terrace looked really crowded and people were trying to get out. "I will never forget what I saw right in front of me. I could see people were dying. I tried to get on the pitch and help but I was not allowed." Ninety-six Liverpool fans were crushed to death during their team's FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest at the stadium in Sheffield on April 15, 1989. Mr West was among hundreds of people who paid their respects in Old Market Square today, on the 25th anniversary of the disaster. There were a mix of Forest and Liverpool fans, many wearing their team's shirts and holding scarves. Supporters of other clubs, including Notts County, were also there. Mr West added: "It is right that people remember those who died. It was an awful tragedy, one that me and others who were there have not got over. "I carried on going to football games but it was hard with that in my mind." The square fell silent for one minute at 3.06pm. It was planned to coincide with the time the referee abandoned the match. After that, the bells of St Peter's Church pealed 96 times in honour of all of those who died and people queued to sign a book of remembrance outside the Council House. In a speech on the Council House steps just before the silence, Nottingham's Lord Mayor Councillor Merlita Bryan paid tribute, coining Liverpool's famous You'll Never Walk Alone anthem. A short distance away, three red roses had been laid on the steps. Ms Bryan said: "Football fans went to the match that day with joy, excitement and anticipation in their hearts, yet never returned. In Nottingham we remember those who died. You will never walk alone." Liverpool fan Jim Cocks, 35, of Forest Fields, recalled the tragedy, which he watched in horror on TV. He said: "I'm glad Nottingham is paying its respects. It is 25 years on but we should not forget those who lost their lives." Fellow Liverpool fan Amer Ali, 30, of Sneinton, also paid his respects. He said: "I was very young when it happened but I have seen the images and it is awful. "No one who died that day should be forgotten. I am glad so many people have turned out to be here." A set of fresh inquests into the deaths started at the end of last month in Warrington, Cheshire. They did not sit today. Meanwhile the Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating allegations surrounding the alleged cover-up by police after the disaster, including evidence that statements were doctored. A linked criminal investigation is examining the events that led up to the disaster. Were you at Hillsborough when the disaster happened? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Hundreds remember the 96 Hillsborough victims in Old Market Square

TWENTY thousand extra tickets are set to go on sale for the biggest British boxing bout in decades as Nottingham's Carl Froch takes on George Groves at Wembley on May 31. The first 60,000 tickets for the rematch between the WBA and IBF World Super Middleweight champion Froch and challenger Groves sold-out within the first hour as fight fans grabbed their seats for the showdown. Now a record 80,000 fans will cram into the national stadium to witness the grudge match between the Brit rivals, and promoter Eddie Hearn is delighted to have secured the extra capacity. "It's fantastic that we have managed to ensure even more fans will be in Wembley for this monumental occasion," said Hearn. "We have worked hard with the council, Wembley and Transport for London and I am delighted that we have come to an agreement to get as many fans as possible into the stadium to create an incredible atmosphere." A further announcement on ticket prices and the on-sale date will be made soon. Fans can register for ticket alerts at http://www.matchroomboxing.com/froch_v_groves_2.htm.

Twenty thousand more tickets for Carl Froch v George Groves at Wembley set to go on sale soon

SECOND rower Dan Montagu has signed a new contract with Nottingham Rugby. Montagu, who is in his second spell with the club, has made 135 appearances in total and has scored 16 tries. "I'm really excited to have signed a new deal," he said. "The future is looking bright and we've made some good signings to complement what we've already got here, so the squad is looking sharp. "I'm very settled in Nottingham, I've got a house here, so I'm putting down some roots and that was important when deciding to stay. "The coaching staff are also very important – I like Haagy (Martin Haag, head coach) and the way he coaches. I enjoy playing for him. "We've got a good young core of players here who have had to grow up fast this season. We've asked them to step up and they've done that. "Having had two seasons together now, we all know each other that bit better and understand each other's strengths and weaknesses so that all helps with shaping a team that can perform well next season." Head Coach Haag said: "Dan Montagu has done really well this year. He's played a lot of rugby and has really performed. "He is part of our leadership group and is a terrific mentor to the younger players in the squad. His versatility and mobility are big assets for us. "He is a fantastic member of the squad and I'm delighted that we have secured a player of his experience. It's great for the team."

Dan Montagu signs new contract with Nottingham Rugby

MURDER accused Joshua Davey did not stab a man 16 times in Nottingham and there is nothing forensically to link him to the killing, his barrister claimed. Davey, 21, of Bulwell, and a 17-year-old youth, who cannot be identified because of his age, deny the murder of Danny Parekh 21 months ago. Mr Parekh was stabbed 16 times in a children's play area in Oakleigh Street, Old Basford, at around 1am on Sunday, July 8, 2012. Davey had got no further, on his evidence, than the bottom of Gabrielle Close, which joins Oakleigh Street, when he heard something of the attack on Mr Parekh. "He saw someone run past him, away from the park," said Bernard Tetlow QC, defending Davey. "That person had dark clothing on and something on his face. "Now, that person Joshua Davey saw, we know they could have run off in any of a number of directions and not been picked up on any of the CCTV." He also alleged there were people out there who wanted to cause serious violence to Mr Parekh who, he said, was associated with a gang in St Ann's. "Now, as a member of that gang, Danny Parekh clearly had enemies, people who had threatened him and people he was scared of. "We have ample evidence of that in the admissions [admitted facts]. You will see admissions about Danny Parekh's background. It's relevant because, we say, someone else – who may have a grudge or threatened him – may have done this." Mr Parekh had told his offender manager, after he was released on supervision for robbery, he was attacked in the Radford area. "He told his offender manager he did not want to be a member of a gang and they tried to stab him in public," said Mr Tetlow in his closing speech on April 15. Months before the stabbing Mr Parekh said in a conversation with his former partner he wanted to move out of Nottingham and his involvement in gangs, said Mr Tetlow at Leicester Crown Court. Mr Parekh, 21, of Thorner Close, Bulwell, had tried to run away from the alleged knifeman but he slipped on the ground. Davey is said to have stabbed him in the legs as he screamed and kicked out in the play area. The teenage defendant allegedly emerged from a nearby alleyway and stood staring at Mr Parekh and laughing after the stabbing, it has been claimed. He is said to have witnessed what happened and intended Mr Parekh, who had earlier attacked him with an iron bar, to have his "comeuppance", claimed the prosecution. The 17-year-old who cannot be identified is also on trial for intentionally encouraging the commission of an offence of unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Parekh and a further charge of assault causing actual bodily harm to a teenage girl on July 7, 2012, both of which he denies. The trial continuesFor the latest crime news, click here.

Danny Parekh murder trial: Joshua Davey denies killing in park

ITALIAN children will learn about the legend of Robin Hood in a new animated series set to air to thousands on the continent. And a band of merry Italian animators, singers and journalists are visiting the city to mark the launch the new series - Robin Hood: Mischief in Sherwood - on Easter Sunday. They have already fired arrows in the outlaw's home of Sherwood Forest and been given a guided tour of the city by none other than Nottingham's official Robin Hood, Tim Pollard. The show will feature on DEA Kids and Sky 3D on paid television in Italy. Vincenzo Sarni, head of property, business and development for Italian TV channel De Agostini, said the trip gave everyone a full understanding of Robin's home. "It's important to talk about where Robin Hood was from. Nottingham and Sherwood Forest is the a background for Robin Hood's tales but for us the city is a principal character, not just a background. "Robin Hood has important ideas for children - he has the spirit of freedom, the spirit of humour and the spirit of the people. "The trip has allowed all of us to experience the ancient buildings of his home and we are so glad to be able to share the biggest symbol of your city." The company has already seen its take on Peter Pan span Europe and thought only Nottingham's greatest outlaw could follow that success. "We tried to think of the most famous character in the world for kids," said Vincenzo, of Milan. "The answer for us was Robin Hood." The Peter Pan series was sold on to viewers in France and Germany, capturing the attention of millions and the firm hopes Robin Hood can repeat that. And the soundtrack - Robin Hood alla conquista di Sherwood - is sung by Italian pop-duo Zero Assoluto, made up of Thomas De Gasperi and Matteo Maffucci, who also saw the city. The show depicts Robin and his Merry Men as children, with a few tweaks to the naming. Friar Tuck is reduced to simply Tuck, Will Scarlett becomes just Scarlett and Maid becomes Lady ahead of Marian's name. The city's official Robin Hood Tim Pollard, 50, said: "The tour was fantastic - Robin Hood is a truly universal legend. I hope the Italians go home with a sense of the pride we have for our hero in Nottingham. "It's something that translates across languages and cultures and it's a great advert for the city. "One of the strengths of the Robin Hood legend is that it can be interpreted in so many ways - I'm truly excited to see how they do it." Tour guide Dr David Cross, who runs Nottingham Heroes and Villains tour took the group from Old Market Square to the Lace Market, Galleries of justice, Nottingham Castle, Standard Hill, Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem and the caves at the Salutation Inn pub. He didn't leave out the Robin Hood statue. "Robin Hood is the biggest brand in the world after Coca Cola," he said. "I've had people on my tours from Italy who said there was another Robin Hood programme when they were kids. So maybe they're trying to re-create something like that. "It will stick in the minds of kids learning about him and in the future they might decide to come here instead of Paris or Barcelona." Don Logan, director at Adrenalin Jungle, gave the Italians a taste of Robin's favourite pastime archery in Sherwood Forest. He said: "They used longbows - which would have been Robin Hood's bow of choice. It's great to have them here and see our most famous face taking off globally once again. "In TV and movies I can't think of a stronger legend in the UK."

New animated Robin Hood series to take to Italian TV

PENSIONERS say they have been struggling to visit their loved ones' graves since a new one-way system was installed at a cemetery. The one-way system was introduced at Carlton Cemetery, in Cavendish Road, in late March to try and improve traffic flow at the graveyard but has already seen six people complain. A bollard included in the system stops some cars from getting close to the graves. Alan Talbot, 73, of Rise Park, who visits the cemetery once a month to lay flowers, says many elderly and disabled people are now struggling to get close to their loved ones' graves since cars have been sent in one direction. "When we've been down to put flowers on the grave all the roads were blocked and we couldn't get to the grave without walking around 1,000 yards from where we have to park. "My wife is disabled and I've got a bad back. It's totally disabled-unfriendly and I think it's completely inadequate. They've completely ruined it. "A lot of the people who go there are older and the council should know many of them have problems getting around easily, especially if they are carrying flowers. "It's as if they're just making it as hard as possible for us to pay our respects. Imagine how difficult it would be if the weather was bad." Mr Talbot says he doesn't understand why the council is making it more difficult for visitors to reach the graves of their loved ones when it allows its own lorries to drive beyond the bollards. But the council says restrictions will help ease traffic flow. and the authority is also trying to cut its spending so has axed weekend assistance at the cemetery. "I've never seen any evidence of that in all the times I've been there," says Mr Talbot. "I think it's just an excuse. Their reasons don't sit well with me at all." Mr Talbot visits the cemetery once a month to remember his mother, Beatrice, who died in 1947 when he was just six. "I only found out where she was in 1990," says Mr Talbot, of Portree Drive. "I never really knew my mother as such. By the time I grew up and started reminiscing I decided to visit the grave often to pay my respects. I've gone every month since 1990." Vera Stafford, 75, of Westdale Lane, Carlton, is also raising issues over the one-way system. She says: "We had trouble getting to my husband's grave as all the paths have been blocked off. Cars can't get by one another and have to wait until the one in front moves, which is mad." She said this follows problems getting a blue badge to enter the car park that she suffered last year. "What will they come up with next?" she says. A spokesman from Gedling Borough Council said: "The bollards were installed at the cemetery in late March due, partly, to the withdrawal of patrols at the weekends by cemetery staff and to also facilitate the smooth flow of traffic of vehicles around the cemetery, which is used regularly by 300 people. "Residents who are blue badge holders or elderly will still be able to access the site. This system allows people to access sections that were previously difficult to get to in a safer manner." Have you struggled to access the grave of your loved one at Carlton Cemetery? Tell us what you think at opinion@nottinghampost.com.

Cemetery bollards causing relatives grave difficulties

A kilo of heroin was discovered after police swooped in on a car at Nuthall roundabout (A610). At 6.45pm on October 9, 2013, response offices in Nottingham City Centre received information that a blue Vauxhall Vectra in the area was being used to transport drugs. Using stop and search powers the vehicle was stopped on the A610 at Nuthall roundabout. A search was made of the car and a plastic carrier bag was found to be containing two packages each containing a half kilo of Class A drugs. The driver and passenger, Kamar Khan, 25, and Direy Mursal, 29, were arrested. Both parties denied owning the drugs or having any knowledge of them but said they had travelled from their home town of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, to Nottingham. Based on intelligence the pair were identified as couriers for a drug exchange. They were convicted of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs on Friday, April 4, and sentenced to eight and five and a half years in prison respectively at Nottingham Crown Court. DC Simon Carter said: "It is clear that despite their protestations both Khan and Mursal played a role as drug couriers – in this case transporting a kilo of heroin. Our estimation is that it could have been sold for anything up to £350,000. "This is an excellent example of the effectiveness of stop and search powers and how, coupled with a thorough investigation and work with partner agencies, it has gone some way in disrupting the drug supply in Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire." "The sentence imposed upon Khan and Mursal reflects the determination of the police and the courts to make Nottinghamshire a cleaner, safer place to live, to work in and to visit."

Drug traffickers caught with a kilo of heroin sentenced to more than 13 years in jail

More than 80 boozy offerings will be on tap as annual beer and cider showcase RuddFest returns next month. For the first time the Ruddington-based festival will be spilling out of the pubs and into the sunshine with new additions including an outdoor music stage, garden bars and alfresco sports screenings. Organisers will be hoping for a dry weekend so punters can take full advantage of the outdoor entertainments, but with four days of craft ales, beers and traditional ciders there will be more than enough to whet visitors' appetites inside. Taking place from midday on Thursday May 29 until last orders on Sunday June 1 this year's event will mark the twelfth annual Ruddington Beer Festival - known locally as RuddFest. Four pubs will be taking part in the weekend's festivities - The Red Heart and The Three Crowns, in Easthorpe Street and the White Horse Inn, in Church Street along with some help from The Victoria Tavern, in Wilford Lane. Chief organiser Andy Hunt, from the White Horse, predicted that hundreds of thirsty festival-goers would be making their way to the village over the weekend. He will be sourcing all 30 of his real ales from breweries within a 20 to 30 mile radius of Ruddington. This will include offerings from North Star, Magpie, Navigation and Nottingham Brewery, some of which will be making a special brew for the festival. Mr Hunt said: "I am really looking forward to it - it brings people to the village from the surrounding areas and it is so well established." An outdoor music stage will be set up in the pub's car park and live music will be on show throughout the evenings with classic sing-a-long song covers from local band Basement, and singers Tee Diamond and Steve McGill. Keeping things local, managers of the Three Crowns, Max Harman and John Noble will be offering burgers and hot dogs from the Ruddington Butchers. Mr Harman said: "I can't wait for it to get started, it is going to be fantastic. Everyone gets involved." Festival-goers may do well to leave their cars at home with some ciders topping a hangover-inducing 8.4 per cent abv. Red Heart landlady, Bhavna Patel, 50, told the Post they were planning to go bigger and better for this year's festival with outdoor screenings of the weekend's big sporting events including the England v Peru friendly and the Carl Froch v George Groves fight. There will also be a garden bar. She said: "The festival really showcases all the pubs working together and brings a lot of trade into the area." What's your favourite tipple? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more food and drink news, click here.

Beer and cider festival returns with 80 boozy offerings

For many of us the closest we get to one of our favourite bands is in the audience while they perform on stage. But Omied Hallam got an awful lot closer than that to Uncle Frank - as the band performed for him in his own living room. The 35-year-old won a competition to have the band, fronted by Frank Benbini of Fun Lovin' Criminals fame, play at his house. Frank, alongside Naim Cortazzi and two dancers are performing 14 such private gigs across the UK ahead of a tour later in the year. "It came as a bit of shock," said Omied, of Fraser Road, Mapperley. "I entered the competition which was on Facebook and the band website. "When I found out I had won I was delighted and pretty excited. It's not every day you have a band play in your own home." The band arrived at 6pm today, though the gig did not begin until much later than that. They reeled off songs from their album Smiles for Miles, which includes a mix of soul, pop, jazz, funk, old-school hip-hop and even some Disney soundtracks. Tracks included Cope, Anytime, Somtim' Somtim'and Gravy Baby. They also sang Step Into My Room, which was the inspiration behind the living room tour. Omied, who is a volunteer co-ordinator at homeless charity Framework, added: "It is such a good idea to allow people to have the band play in their own home." Omied's house mate Rachel Yardley, 35, added: "It's great that Omied won the competition. He asked me if it was ok for them to come around and I said 'of course'." Tonight's was the third of the 14 private gigs on the band's schedule, having already visited Leeds and London, and with trips to cities including Edinburgh and Belfast to come. Frank said: "I have not done anything like this before so it is really exciting. It is good to be able to get to know the fans who listen to the music. "It is also something good for them to be able to tell their friends." His band mate Naim added: "We will be doing an actual tour after this. This is basically a little treat for the fans. It's a really enjoyable thing to be involved with." Have you met your favourite band? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Uncle Frank play live in Mapperley living room

SAILING enthusiasts have been given nearly £50,000 to build a new clubhouse at Attenborough Nature Reserve.

Attenborough Sailing Club was awarded £49,409 in the latest Sport England funding round. It will help to pay for the cost of a new £99,000 clubhouse.

The club is among 324 local sports projects to secure a share of £17 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England's Inspired Facilities fund.

Sailing club commodore Roger Day said: "We are delighted to have secured this investment. People will only stay in any sport if they enjoy it, and having comfortable, pleasant facilities is part of that."

POLICE have issued this CCTV image of a woman they would like to speak to in connection with a theft.

Items were stolen from the Peacocks store in Nottingham Road, Eastwood, on March 18.

The woman is white, in her 30s, about 5ft 7in tall, of medium build, with long blonde hair scraped back. She was wearing black, long, patent boots, jeans and a green khaki hooded jacket and carried a white carrier bag and a black shoulder bag.

Anyone with information is asked to call Notts Police on the non-emergency number 101.

Police plea after theft from store