Subway has converted 185 of its stores to serve only halal meat, removing pork and bacon from the menu.
The American sandwich chain said the ingredients have been replaced with turkey ham and turkey rashers to "reflect the customer demographic in those areas."
Two stores in Nottingham now serve halal meat only - the Houndsgate and Alfreton Road branches.
But a spokeswoman from Subway said the programme to change these stores had been in place since 2007 and was "nothing new" and "no sudden change in policy."
Halal means anything that is permissible in Islamic Law, and in food, it dictates how the animal is slaughtered.
The name of Allah must be said whilst the animal is being killed, a very sharp blade must be used to ensure the slaughter is quick and humane, but the animal must be conscious at the time.
Subway said all their animals were stunned before slaughter to reduce suffering.
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Subway replaces bacon in two Nottingham stores to make all meat halal
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Nigel Farage to hit campaign trail in Nottingham
UKIP leader Nigel Farage will be in Nottingham later today as part of his European election campaign – after ruling out running for parliament in Newark.
Mr Farage cancelled a similar visit to Swansea yesterday amid security concerns. It is believed that reports of 'scuffles' in the city centre deterred Farage from his visit. Follow our live blog of the visit here:But Mr Farage said on Wednesday that he had no links with the East Midlands and thought it would be opportunistic for him to stand.
He added that he did not wish to risk Ukip's chances in the European parliamentary elections by standing for the seat.
Mr Mercer resigned from the Conservative Party last June after a BBC Panorama programme alleged he broke lobbying rules.
Under a law dating from 1624, an MP cannot resign – with only death or disqualification being acceptable reasons for vacating a seat.
Any MP who wishes to resign has to "accept a paid office of the Crown", which disqualifies them from sitting in the House of Commons.
Yesterday, Chancellor George Osborne appointed Mr Mercer Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern.
A date for the by-election has not yet been set.
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Nottingham Forest's Greg Halford picks up three match ban
GREG Halford will miss the final game of Nottingham Forest's season after collecting a three-match ban for violent conduct.
The Reds' most versatile player will now be banned for the visit of Brighton on Saturday.
He will also miss the first two games of the club's new era under the management of Stuart Pearce, at the start of next season.
Halford had opted not to contest the FA charge, which related to an incident during the game at Bournemouth last weekend.
The unspecified incident was not spotted by the match officials at Dean Court, but was subsequently highlighted on video.
With Jamaal Lascelles having collected a knee injury in the game on the south coast and Kelvin Wilson and Jack Hobbs also unlikely to play, Forest will have a defensive headache against the Seagulls.
Kevin Gomis, who has made only one appearance since joining the club on loan, could be drafted in to play alongside Danny Collins, if neither Lascelles or Wilson recover in time to play.
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Beauty pageant contestant is crowned Europe's Perfect Teen Spokesperson
Ellie Pownall only entered Europe's Perfect pageant for the experience - now she is jetting off to America to compete for the world title.
18-year-old Ellie, of Scarrington, swapped showjumping for modelling a year ago after becoming a fan of beauty pageant programmes on TV.
Since then she has entered half a dozen competitions, was runner-up in the Miss Teen International Beautiful pageant, held in Miami, and was crowned Europe's Perfect Teen Spokesperson in April.
Ellie, who works as a sales assistant for catering company Cookco, in West Bridgford, said: "I thought my application was quite strong but I didn't think I would win any of the titles. When the director told me I was really excited; I couldn't believe I had been picked.
"I just wanted to sleep in my crown and sash when I got them. They made everything a lot more real."
Europe's Perfect is an annual pageant for girls aged nine plus, who are entered into one of five categories: Pre-teen (ages nine to 12), junior teen (12 to 15), teen (16 to 19), miss (20 to 29) and women (30+).
To stand a chance of winning one of the titles, the models must submit a video and portfolio of pageant pictures and impress at the interview stage.
Ellie, who beat more than 40 others for the title of Europe's Perfect Teen Spokesperson, wowed the judges with her extensive list of volunteer work which included dog-walking, helping out at church coffee mornings and volunteering at The Ear Foundation.
She will fly out to America in August to compete against 60 others for the title of World's Perfect Teen.
The former Toot Hill Academy student added: "At first pageants are quite scary because you get on stage and there are five or more judges all looking at you but they soon become exciting and everyone is really supportive. I love going shopping for new outfits for each pageant and it is fun learning about the different poses and walks to do. It feel like I am home when I am walking down the catwalk.
"The process [for Europe's Perfect] was different but it seemed to work. I am really excited but nervous because there will be so many people [going through to the next stage]. It will be a good opportunity and I am looking forward to meeting people from across the world. Whatever happens will happen, I am just really happy to be part of it."
Have you ever entered a beauty pageant? Tell us your experience at opinion@nottinghampost.com.
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Robert Lachowicz to remain with Nottingham Panthers after rejecting chance to move abroad
ROBERT Lachowicz has committed to the Nottingham Panthers for another year after deciding not to pursue his career in Europe.
The Nottingham-born forward had a window to try and move abroad as part of the deal he agreed a year ago.
He has rejected the chance though and will now complete the second of a two season deal, much to the delight of coach Corey Neilson.
Neilson said: "Lacho could have moved abroad but he's very happy with his development at the Panthers. He is someone who knows the club and has become a real key player for us.
"Keeping him on board is a real plus point for us heading into next season."
The Great Britain international scored 60 points in 62 games last season, including 21 goals, as he helped the Panthers to a fifth straight Challenge Cup.
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Nigel Farage 'sad and scared' says Nottingham egg-thrower
The protestor who hit Nigel Farage with an egg as the UKIP leader arrived in Nottingham has labelled the party "sad, scared old men".
Mr Farage was hit on the head by the egg after getting out of his car in St Peter's Square.
He was on his party's European Election campaign in the city ahead of the May 22 vote.
The man was then cornered into the alleyway of a building society by men who appeared to be associated with UKIP.
He was later escorted away by police.
As he was cornered, the protestor said: "It's hatred and scaremongering. I'm now being man handled by three men who are much larger than me.
"Stop making Nigel Farage some kind of cartoon. He is a dangerous influence on the principled people in this country.
"He doesn't represent anybody's rights, he doesn't represent anybody's future. He represents the past, which this country can do without."
A woman in the crowd then called the man a "clown".
He held a placard which said "UKIP: Sad, scared old men".
The protestor tried to get past the man who had blocked him in but was kept there until police arrived to take him away.
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Nigel Farage scarpers after being hit by egg in Nottingham
NIGEL Farage was hit by an egg as he arrived in St Peter's Square ahead of his party's European Election campaign.
The UKIP leader got back in his car after being hit on the head by an egg thrown by a protestor.
The protestor was cornered by men in an alley to the side of the Halifax building society in St Peter's Square.
He was holding a placard that said: "Sad, scared old men"
Mr Farage was set to make his way towards Old Market Square as he visits Nottingham today ahead of the European Elections on May 22.
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Hundreds gather to pay final respects to Elaine Harrison
The daughter of a woman whose body was found after a four-month search told her funeral gathering her death had left "a hole that can never be filled".
Hundreds of mourners bid a tearful farewell to Elaine Harrison today.
Family and friends packed into St Giles Church in West Bridgford for an emotional service.
Fighting back tears, Tracey Harrison spoke of her memories of her mum.
She said: "She was a larger than life character and was forever playing practical jokes. Our childhood was filled with so many trips."
Recalling some of the lighter moments, Miss Harrison and the congregation managed to raise a smile.
She added: "Without her, there is such a hole that can never be filled. I miss her.
"My mum, my hero, I miss you more than words could say. You are like my guardian angel."
Ms Harrison went missing on December 9 last year, having left her house boat moored at Castle Marina. The family's worst fears were realised when her body was discovered at Colwick Park last month.
Well before today's service, dozens of people were gathering outside the church. Some were dressed in black, others in bright colours, at the request of the family.
The hearse arrived at 11am. The coffin was covered in flowers, one in the shape of a barge in honour of Ms Harrison's boating hobby.
The coffin was carried into the church to the sound of Elton John's song Candle In The Wind, followed by the funeral hymn Abide With Me.
The funeral heard that Ms Harrison "always wore a smile and loved to dance".
Ms Harrison's son Andrew - who, along with family and close friends, had run a widespread campaign to help find his mum - read a poem.
Recalling her sense of humour, he said: "Laugh as we always laughed, the little jokes we shared together."
Wiping away tears, placed his hand on the coffin as he returned to his seat.
An emotional tribute was then read on behalf of Ms Harrison's granddaughter Chloe.
It said: "There is nothing I can say or do to show how much you mean to me.
"She was the one who kept me from falling. She would get me through the day even if I wasn't ok.
"I don't know what I'm going to do without her. She will be remembered in my heart forever. I will always love you grandma."
All of the congregation were given the chance to lay a flower on the coffin before the hymn All Things Bright and Beautiful concluded the service, which was followed by a private burial.
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Dream bedroom makeover for teen with epilepsy
Volunteers are working against the clock to put the finishing touches on a dream bedroom makeover for a teen with severe epilepsy.
Toy Story fan Ryan Lomas, 17, will be having the surprise of his life as his revamped room, complete with Woody and Buzz Lightyear mural, is revealed on Friday May 2.
Children's charity WellChild organised the makeover, which will include Taekwondo-style soft flooring and a brand new wardrobe to house all of Ryan's medication, with the help of volunteers from Salesforce.
Diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy eight years ago, Ryan, who lives with his mum and two younger siblings in Orion Close, Bilborough, suffers daily seizures and often needs a wheelchair.
The condition, called Lennox Gastaut Syndrome, also means Ryan has severe learning difficulties.
Chief tea-maker and mum, Susan Smith, 46, couldn't wait for Ryan to return from his spell in respite care where he was staying in order to keep the makeover a secret.
She said: "I have to watch him all the time. He can't really go outside and play with his friends in case he has a seizure.
"But this will be a nice place that people can come visit him.
"The room will look really nice when it is done. He loves Toy Story, that's one of his favourite things, and he will have all of his sensory toys here too including a bubble lamp which relaxes him when he has had a seizure."
Aside from Pixar's most famous talking toys Ryan also enjoys watching trams and trains which he often does as part of his respite care with The Villas, at the City Hospital, which he attends every fortnight.
Work began on the Wellchild Helping Hands project at 9am this morning and the team are aiming to finish at 4pm tomorrow thanks to a steady supply of tea and tunes.
Helping Hands programme manager Lee Trunks hoped the redecorated room would bring some sunshine into Ryan's life.
He said: "It is quite a dark room at the moment so this will really brighten the place up.
Ryan spends a lot of time in his room watching TV on his specially made bed so it's great we can make this place a space he can really call his own."
The room is part of a recent ground floor extension which due to a lack of soft flooring was unsuitable for Ryan to stay in, in its former state.
Salesforce volunteer Jerry Haywood, 31, who describes himself as a "DIY wannabe" had met with Ryan a few weeks earlier.
He said: "We met with Ryan to see what it was he wanted in his room and what sort of things he enjoyed.
"Toy Story is his big thing and I think he will be over the moon with the makeover considering how happy he was playing with his Toys Story toys when we first met him.
"We can't wait to see his reaction."
Are there any inspirational young people in your area? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more Bilborough news, click here
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Nigel Farage egg throwing: man arrested
Police have arrested a 33-year-old man on suspicion of assault after Nigel Farage was egged during a visit to Nottingham.
Crowds gathered outside Wheeler Gate as the UKIP leader headed to the city as part of the campaign trail.
But shortly after the 50-year-old leader stepped out his chauffeur-driven 4x4 Range Rover at just after 2.15pm, he was struck by the egg.
While waiting for the police to arrive, the protestor was held against a wall and posed for photos.
He told the crowd: "I went to Tesco and bought six eggs. I made sure they were British so at least he should be happy with that."
A spokeswoman from Notts Police said the man was from Nottingham and was in custody.
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Nottinghamshire bowler Harry Gurney named in England squad
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE'S Harry Gurney has been named in the England squad for their game against Scotland next week - but there is no place for any of his county team-mates.
Gurney will be desperate to make his debut having previously toured the West Indies without playing. He was also a reserve for the World T20 in Bangladesh, again with a watching.
The seamer is the only uncapped player in the squad as Notts team-mates Michael Lumb - who scored a century on debut against the West Indies - and Alex Hales miss out.
There was also no place for James Taylor, while bowler Stuart Broad is still injured.
England squad: Cook, Ali, Anderson, Ballance, Bell, Bopara, Buttler, Gurney, Jordan, Morgan, Root, Tredwell, Woakes
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Man claiming to have thrown egg at Nigel Farage speaks
A protester who identified himself as the man who threw an egg at Nigel Farage said the UKIP leader would be pleased - as he chose a British egg.
The man, who identified himself as Fred, was holding a homemade sign which said UKIP: Sad, Scared, Old Men.
The 50-year-old leader was hit in the face by a single egg at 2.15pm moments after stepping out of his chauffeur-driven 4x4 Range Rover in Nottingham.
The protester who claimed to throw the egg was bundled into a corner by minders where he was photographed and spoke to reporters.
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Advice on diet and exercise could soon be available from your local library
Help to combat dementia, smoking and obesity could soon be available at one-stop drop-in centres based in the county's libraries.
Nottinghamshire County Council are looking into the possibility of offering dedicated health and wellbeing zones at twelve libraries.
As well as a collection of health-related books, these areas would also offer touch screen kiosks and pods for pop-up health group clinics.
There would also be a chill-out area for visitors to read through information and look at health-based displays.
Team Manager of Libraries Andrea Lowe has given the thumbs up to concept but says it is still in the very early stages.
She said: "We think it is an excellent idea that we would like to see happen but at the moment it is very much a future proposal.
"Libraries are a trusted space for many people and it would provide our customers with another point of access to gain more information about health and wellbeing.
"It is good to offer a variety of ways to access information - the written word is great for some people but things like the touch screen kiosk could open it up to other people."
The twelve libraries earmarked as possible sites for the initiative are Arnold, Beeston, Bingham, Hucknall, Kirkby in Ashfield, Mansfield, Newark, Retford, Southwell, Sutton in Ashfield, West Bridgford and Worksop.
The council's Adult Community Learning Services would work in partnership with the centres to offer a series of healthy living programmes which could include yoga classes, brain training and healthy eating advice.
Development manager Andy Ashley said: "We would tailor our programmes to the individual needs of the different area because the needs of people in Mansfield could be different to those in Rushcliffe."
"We would be working closely with the libraries and hopefully help each other.
"People may come in to sign up for a programme or get more information about healthy living and then decide to sign up to become a library member or use the computers."
The initiative has been put forward as a potential way to develop library services in a report to the county council's Health and Wellbeing Board - due to be discussed Wednesday May 7.
Nottinghamshire County Council's Culture Committee has been looking at how libraries are supporting the health and wellbeing agenda in the county.
Councillor John Knight, Culture Committee Chairman, at Nottinghamshire County Council said: "It is now recognised that health is as much about emotional and psychological wellbeing as it is about physical wellbeing.
"There is a clear role for libraries here. Libraries are information providers and library staff can help people find the information they need, guiding them and helping them to access and understand the information they need."
Would you like to see Health and Wellbeing Centres in libraries? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more Nottinghamshire County Council news, click here
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Nigel Farage: I should have said 'no' to Newark immediately
UKIP leader Nigel Farage was hit by an egg just seconds after arriving in Nottingham to campaign ahead of the European elections.
The politician stepped out of his 4x4 Range Rover on St Peter's Square where a crowd waited to greet him at just after 1.15pm.
A lone protester ran towards Mr Farage before throwing an egg on his head. The UKIP leader was quickly whisked away.
He retreated to the Bell Inn in Angel Row where he met with reporters and party activists and said stunts like the egging made things "difficult."
Speaking about negative reception he'd received, Mr Farage said: "There's been quite a sustained campaign. It makes it increasingly difficult to go out and campaign in the way that I would like to.
"This isn't the public.
"That is a fundamentally anti-democratic thing to do. It's not good and it's not healthy."
During his time at the Bell, the 50-year-old leader sipped from a pint of Robin Hood Ale and greeted party activists and supporters.
And he told the Post that his flirtation with running for the party at the forthcoming Newark by-election.
He said: "I should have said no immediately.
"But it was difficult. I was being miked upas in, had a microphone on, a thousand people in the hall, eight minutes before I was going on stage, you know, I get the news that Mercer has resigned.
"I never thought he would stand down as an MP. We all thought he would be suspended. There wasn't any time to think about it really."
Was it winnable? "Not for me," Mr Farage said.
"I can't even go to Newark until May 27, the election is on June 5. I have three weeks of this, I'm busy all round the country up until the election and with the results and the results night, I couldn't have gone there. It would have been buts to even think about it.
"Let's choose a candidate with East Midlands roots and links and has got time to the job. I have no regrets at all."
The European elections take place on May 22 and the East Midlands is currently represented by two UKIP MEPs – Derek Clark who is standing down this month, and Roger Helmer, who was elected as a Tory and defected.
And Mr Farage gave a wry smile when he suggested that two seats would be a minimum later this month.
His offer was clear, he said.
"We want to give you your country back.
"These are EU elections, and we are making the big arguments – we should govern our own country, control our own border, we should be in charge.
"And every vote UKIP gets, the stronger we are, it brings us closer to having a referendum on this subject."
But the protestor who claimed he threw the egg said: "I don't agree with the hate and fearmongering that UKIP spread.
"What is the sense of being an anti-European party that stands for election in Europe?"
Meanwhile, the egg incident attracted strong views across social media and on nottinghampost.com.
Mark Hefter tweeted: "Proud of the eggs-emplary way Nottingham have treated Farage."
But Alan Johnson said: "Deserves to be jailed if only for being so totally stupid."
For a full list of candidates at the European election, visit nottinghampost.com/politics
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Nottingham Post Business Awards: Winners announced
A NOTTS business which decided to tackle recession head on and invest for the future was last night revealed as the winner of the flagship prize in this year's Nottingham Post Business awards.
Hillarys Blinds, which employs more than 1,000 people designing, manufacturing and selling made-to-measure window coverings, was named Nottinghamshire Company of the Year at an awards ceremony held at the east Midlands Conference Centre.
Judges of the Browne Jacobson-sponsored award chose Hillarys ahead of three other high-flying businesses, with patent and trademark attorneys Potter Clarkson, food firm Pork Farms and temporary roadways business Lion Trackhire taking the runner-up spots.
Hillarys is headquartered in Colwick and has become a market leader in blinds, curtains, shutters and awnings since it was established in 1971.
Even though the home improvement market has suffered during the downturn, Hillarys took the decision to invest heavily in a brand makeover, a new consumer website, new designs and new products.
Chief executive John Risman explained: "2013 has been an extraordinary year for the Hillarys Group.
"We continue to invest in people, operations, product and service and there are already some important projects in trial phase which include international e-commerce and the launch of made-to-measure carpets."
One of the county's most active businessmen was also recognised at last night's ceremony, which took place in front of an audience of hundreds and was organised by Champions (UK) plc.
Alan Hardy is well-known in business circles as the boss of Paragon Interiors Group plc, a £50m turnover company which designs and installs interiors for a range of major corporate clients.
But he actually runs and owns six businesses in total – among them the Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club and a talent management agency which represents three former X-factor contestants – and was named Business Entrepreneur of the Year.
He won the Mattioli Woods-sponsored award ahead of Miriam Malik, who is aged just 28 but already owns and runs an expanding laser hair removal business MiMilaser Clinics, and Dale Robinson, the head of the £11.5m turnover Lion Trackhire business.
The awards are split into 13 different categories, and the other winners were:
Nottinghamshire Small Business of the year, sponsored by ncn business to business
Family-run Trimcraft was named Small Business of the Year. Vince Fakey's family-run company has cornered the market in scrapbooking, and supplies a raft of high street names with arts and crafts products.
It also supplies customers in 25 countries, and has enjoyed such success that it's expanded into new premises at Abbeyfield Court in Lenton and set up a state-of-the-art showroom.
The runners-up in the small business category were App Institute, which develops online apps and recently secured £150,000 backing for expansion from the Nottingham technology Grant Fund, and Air-IT, which manages the IT and telecoms needs of an expanding client base from premises at Nottingham Business Park.
New Business of the Year, sponsored by Freeth Cartwright
Gedling-based Hairven Salon was named best new Business of the Year – the latest in a line of awards won by a business which is less than three years old.
Owner Collette Osborne turned her back on a career in accounting to set up the business, which has recently trebled in size to cope with expansion and now employs 14 people.
Runners-up were Nottingham-based 2 Red, which supplies and installs home energy and insulation products, and Mansfield Manor, a boutique hotel, wedding and events venue based in a listed building in scenic Carr Bank Park in Mansfield.
International Trade, sponsored by PKF Cooper Parry
The international architect, design and master planning business Benoy was chosen as winner of the award, a reflection of its huge success in locations as far afield as China, Singapore and Abu Dhabi.
The Newark-based business – which has half its 500-strong team in Hong Kong – has been responsible for landmark developments such as Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, and is currently on site with 50 projects in china alone.
At the same time its chairman, Graham Cartledge CBE, has acted as a flag waver for Nottingham's economy, joining the Prime Minister on international trade delegations.
Runners-up in this category were patent and trademark attorneys Potter Clarkson, which specialises in helping firms exploit and protect their intellectual property, and electronic displays business TEW Group.
Excellence in Science & Technology, sponsored by JLT
Chinook Sciences, a company which has developed technology used across four continents to turn waste into energy, took the science and technology prize.
Judges were persuaded by the way in which it has developed a unique process that enables the full recovery of valuable materials from waste, reducing landfill and recovering energy without burning or incineration.
Runners-up in the category were Filtertechnik, whose filters clean fuel used by clients including F1 teams, and Romax Technologies, a market leader in the virtual design and development of transmission systems
Excellence in Manufacturing, sponsored by Barclays
Nottingham-based TEW Group, which designs and makes large-scale electronic display systems, convinced the judges it should be the winner of the manufacturing award.
Its displays keep passengers informed about train times at St Pancras, national grid uses a TEW display to keep an eye on power distribution, while car component firms use its control systems.
Runners-up in the category were Belton Massey, which runs catalytic converter manufacturer BM Catalysts, and modular buildings company Caledonian Modular.
Retail Business of the Year, sponsored by Vision Express
The Bead Shop took the retail award, Hana[corr] Glover and Robin Bellingham having started their business in a living room but developing it into a shop which is a mecca for people who love costume jewellery.
The business was also an early adopter of e-commerce and drives more custom through an annual bead and craft show.
Runners-up were Fairly Trading and Mrs Bishop's Doggy Deli.
Creative Industries Business of the Year, sponsored by Nottingham Trent University
Upper Cut Productions were already flying high before they were named winner of the Creative Industries award – this is the business that uses miniature helicopters, tethered balloons and specially engineers poles to give is clients a photographic eye in the sky.
It won the award ahead of textiles designer Tori Murphy and web design and social media agency Absolute Design.
Services Award, sponsored by Blusource
Nottingham has been a big success story for Bistro Live, which was named winner of the services category. The live music and restaurant venue has become a real destination in the city for people looking for a great night out in one place.
The runners up in the category were retail software and solution business Retail Assist and law firm Austin Moore & Partners.
Nottinghamshire Sales & Marketing Award
Another company which decided it wouldn't take recession lying down won the sales and marketing award. Civil and structural engineers BSP Consulting mounted a major business development push which helped it win new clients in new markets.
Its conscious decision to invest in growth means it is now well-placed to make the most of the economic upturn.
Runners-up in the category were Hillarys Blinds and Nottinghamshire Country Cricket Club.
Contribution to the Community Award, sponsored by Baker Tilly
Nottingham means much more than a place to do business for Contribution to the Community winner TDX Group.
The Lace Market business won the award for its Making the Connection initiative, which set a target of raising £20,000 for Nottinghamshire Hospice, but actually brought in £34,000 through events which ranged from a charity ball to a skydive.
The runners-up were social enterprise Arch Communications, and Trent Bridge, which won recognition for the way it involved the community in its Ashes success.
Not-For-Profit Award, sponsored by Brewin Dolphin
Emmanuel House, which provides help and shelter for the homeless and vulnerable was chosen as winner of the Not-for-Profit award.
It won praise for offering much more than a place to go – it also works with other agencies to help people overcome the challenges they face and rebuild their lives.
Runners-up in the category were Malt Cross Trust and School for Parents.
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Call for more power over city's transport
A CALL has been made for cities outside of London to get the same powers and funding over their transport.
A new report says Transport for London has played a significant role in supporting growth in the capital, by offering "an expansive, regulated and user-friendly transport network" that residents can use with an Oyster card.
It believes this has led to huge impacts on the network, including bus passenger journeys increasing by 80 per cent between 2000 and 2012, despite bus usage across the rest of the country declining.
Now think tank Centre for Cities has asked the Government to give more cities "London-style" powers over their transport network, so as to allow for the better integration and coordination of services.
It also says Whitehall should supports all cities to use their existing revenue-raising powers – such as fees and parking regulations – to ensure that local transport services meet local needs.
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Raiders break into shop and garage
THE same raiders are believed to be behind two smash-and- grab raids which have seen offenders force their way into closed shops in the early hours and steal cigarettes.
The latest incident took place at 3.05am yesterday in Derby Road, Sandiacre.
A police spokesman said a patrol car spotted a dark-coloured Vauxhall Vectra parked in the car park of the Co-op store and as he approached it the horn sounded twice.
A man came out of the shop, which was closed at the time, and the car sped off in the direction of Risley, followed by the police car.
When the officer returned to the store, the bottom glass panel of the locked front door was smashed and it has since been discovered that cigarettes were stolen.
Police are linking the offence to one that took place at 1am yesterday when masked raiders smashed the front door of a closed Jet garage on the A38, jumped over the counter and took cigarettes.
The break-in happened on the southbound A38 at Derby Road, Egginton, and a witness said two men, both white, fled in a Vauxhall Vectra in the direction of Willington.
A force spokesman said: "We are linking both incidents because of the method of break-in and the fact that cigarettes were stolen in both cases."
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.
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Nigel Farage: 33-year-old charged in connection with egg-throwing
A 33-year-old man has been charged in connection with the egg-throwing incident involving UKIP leader Nigel Farage.
Frederick Glenister, of Lindley Terrace, Radford, has been charged with common assault.
Mr Farage was struck by the egg just as he arrived in Wheeler Gate in the city centre at about 1.15pm yesterday.
He was visiting the city to campaign ahead of the European elections.
Glenister has been bailed to appear before Nottingham magistrates on Thursday, May 22.
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LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUP ENCOURAGES OTHERS TO GET SHARE OF £80.5K IN COMMUNITY FUNDING SCHEME
Local Community Group encourages others from Nottingham to get involved.
160 winning organisations in a great cash giveaway last year are encouraging more community groups around the UK to apply for funding and support in 2014.
Grassroots Giving was launched last year by one of the country's oldest mutuals, Skipton Building Society, to celebrate its 160th anniversary. And this year it is back by popular demand, now giving 161 groups the chance to win the funding, following overwhelming appetite from community groups, clubs and organisations across the UK last year.
Winning group, Daemon Diggers- supporting the children's library at Wollaton Library, was one of the lucky ones in 2013 to win. They have since spent their funding on developing the outdoor area at the children's library, with the purchase of gardening equipment and plants. The area is set to be used as the focus for activities over the school holidays, and will encourage children to take part in the 'Summer reading challenge.' The group also benefited from other free support offered by Skipton Building Society as part of the programme.
Elaine Dykes, Service Development Librarian at Wollaton Library said: "The £500 generously donated to Daemon Diggers has enabled us to purchase plants and gardening equipment for children as well as outdoor games and wall art. The area which is entered via the children's library is now an attractive and welcoming environment extending the opportunity for outdoor storytelling and activities." The group is now calling for others in the area to get involved this year.
Skipton Building Society spokesman Roy Prenton said: "We had an unbelievable number of applications for Grassroots Giving in 2013. We were overwhelmed by the number of community groups and projects which put themselves forward – in fact, more than 1,000 organisations applied. Even more encouraging was the number of votes cast for our shortlisted groups. Almost 20,000 people took the time to go online to support their favourite group. What a superb effort by these community-minded supporters!"
"Now it's time to tell the UK that Grassroots Giving is back and applications open in May. Skipton Building Society has set aside £80,500 to give to grassroots groups, clubs and organisations around the country - with the public deciding which causes win their share of the funds in November."
"Our 2013 applicants have all said how the programme has made a positive difference to their ongoing work, helping ensure they engage and reach out to more people, and provide sustainability for the future."
Tom White, branch manager at Skipton Building Society in Nottingham said: "It would be fantastic to have even more groups from Nottingham and the surrounding areas involved in this cause. There are some really hard working people out there, who give up hours of their own time to improve our communities. This is a great way to give them the recognition and support they truly deserve."
This year the Society is introducing a new dimension to Grassroots Giving by helping connect, promote and resource passionate people and their projects. It has a Grassroots Giving cluster on Project Dirt which can be found via : www.projectdirt.com/cluster/grassrootsgiving/. The aim of this hub is to connect all Grassroots Giving applicants from around the country, enabling them to promote events, knowledge share, recruit and manage volunteers, share best practice and gain access to funding and learning resources, amongst other things.
Project Dirt is a social network, set up specifically with the aim of helping community and voluntary groups from around the UK. This will act as a 'hub' for the Grassroots Giving groups where everyone has a common interest; getting stuck into local activity, helping resource projects, learning new skills which would benefit groups and most of all meeting new people and having fun. Being part of the Project Dirt community will allow Grassroots Giving groups to engage with a wider network of people local to them.
Another highlight of Skipton's Grassroots Giving programme is a series of comprehensive downloadable free resource packs. These resources offer help and guide grassroots organisations through challenges such as raising funds, recruiting volunteers, and project planning.
Roy added: "We're delighted to be bringing back Grassroots Giving and to engage with more community groups right across the country. Last year we had some fascinating stories to tell from the hundreds of groups who applied for funding and I am sure Grassroots Giving 2014 will unearth a host of other tales."
"The diversity of organisations which applied for Grassroots Giving last year was incredible, from music groups and allotment holders to sports clubs and woodland nature reserve groups. We want to help many more to further their dreams and ambitions in 2014."
The application process for 2014, which opens on 1 May, is easier than ever and now everything can be done online. Groups can simply log onto www.skiptongrg.co.uk and complete and submit the online application form. Applicants are simply asked to demonstrate how the £500 would make a difference to them, as the Society is keen to donate towards helping develop sustainable projects.
After the closing date for applications on 31 July 2014, a shortlist of entries will be drawn up and placed into regional groups. Each shortlisted application will be summarised and posted on the Grassroots Giving website in August - then it's over to the local communities across the UK to vote for who they'd like to see receive the 161 pots of support.
Progress of the campaign can also be followed via www.twitter.com/SkiptonBS_GrG
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Nottingham Panthers to play in Champions Hockey League
NOTTINGHAM Panthers will be taking on the biggest clubs in Europe after being accepted into the Champions Hockey League.
Elite League winners Belfast Giants were set to take a spot in the competition, which was expanded from 40 to 44 teams, guaranteeing a British entrant.
However, they decided to turn down the chance, giving Challenge Cup winners Panthers the opportunity to step into their place.
"Last season we had six games in the Continental Cup, winning four and losing two, each by a single goal," said Panthers general manager Gary Moran.
"We are thrilled to be able to move on a level with this invitation to join the Champions Hockey League. Our inclusion is great for the sport in the UK, it will be exciting for our fans and it is a great honor for our club to once again fly the flag for our league."
The teams will be drawn into groups of four in Minsk on May 21 with the group winners and five best second placed teams going through.
Panthers have won eight of the last 12 major trophies domestically, but as a wildcard team, they are set for a tough group.
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