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THE Brownie spirit of "fun and friendship" shone through at a gathering of more than 3,000 youngsters to mark the movement's 100th birthday. The girls, all aged between seven and 10, were joined by 500 volunteers at Wheelgate Theme Park in Farnsfield on Saturday for one of the largest single events in the UK to celebrate the centenary. As well as the thrills of Wheelgate's rollercoasters and rides, the children were also able to enjoy dance and aerobics classes, circus workshops and arts and crafts sessions. Brownie leader Jo Brown said the popularity of the event proved the movement was still going strong. She said: "The Brownies first started in 1914, when the Guides had been established for about four years. "The younger sisters of the Girl Guides started complaining that there wasn't anything for them, so the Brownies was formed for girls aged between seven and 10. "100 years on and we're still going strong!" Jo has been involved with the Brownies since she was eight years old. Almost 40 years later, she has now risen through the ranks to become division commissioner for Notts Fosse. She added: "The Brownies is really important in giving the children confidence. "We often find that some of the girls are very quiet when they first come along, so we help build up their confidence. "They come out as more rounded people. "It certainly made me more confident – I would never have thought I would become a division commissioner!" Youngsters from the 3rd Bingham Brownies said they had been learning about the history of the movement and were excited to be part of the success story. Ellen Gormley, nine, from Bingham, said: "I thought it was quite amazing when I heard the Brownies was 100 years old. "I can't really imagine people being in the Brownies 100 years ago! "I love being part of it though because I like spending time with my friends and getting involved in lots of different activities. "It's just nice for girls to be able to do fun stuff with their friends." Maddison (correct) Snelgrove has only been a Brownie for two months, but has already been on an adventure holiday to PGL. The nine-year-old said: "It was great fun. We got to do lots of activities, like the high ropes, abseiling, climbing and archery. "I knew when I started that the Brownies was going to be good. "I like it because it means I get to spend time with my friends." The girls also said they had been enjoying celebrating the Big Brownie Birthday with fellow members from across Notts. Piper Littlewood, 10, has been part of the Brownies for three-and-a-half years. She said: "Today has been really good as there's so many activities to take part in and it means you get to see all your friends." Lucy Baker, seven, added: "Today has been really fun. We've been going on lots of rides and the bouncy castle. "It's brilliant to be able to take part." Julie Bentley, chief executive of Girl Guiding UK, travelled from London to join the celebrations. She said: "This event is all about celebrating 100 years of Brownies across the UK. "It gives the girls the opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience new things. "The Brownies is all about fun and friendship in a girls-only setting." Kate Royse, county commissioner for Girl Guiding Nottinghamshire, added: "The Brownies brings a huge amount of confidence to our young members. "They also learn really important life skills such as team work and decision making. "This can be done through very simple things, such as litter picking, or working with handicapped children. "We also listen to the voice of young women – these girls are our future. "That why it's really important for us to celebrate milestones in our history. "We're expecting the Brownies to be here until it's 1,000 years old at least!"

Thousands turn out in celebration of Brownies' 100th birthday

Around 150 soldiers from 170 Engineer Group Royal Engineers and veterans from the Royal Engineers Association marched through Kimberley on Saturday to rapturous applause. Peter Blackburn reports. BRENDA Chettle's heart swelled with pride as the young men and women marched through the town centre. For the 82-year-old memories of her nearest and dearest came flooding back as she prepared to applaud with a tear in her eye. The Kimberly resident of 59 years' late husband was in the RAF just after the Second World War and her brother fought in Germany during the war. Standing among men and women of all ages, she said: "This is the least we can do. If it wasn't for young boys forfeiting their lives for people like us, we wouldn't be here. "I can't do anything else but be here and show my respect. I remember the war years and it brings back memories. This has that sort of feeling. People talking to each other - people they don't know and they wouldn't speak to normally. It's incredible. "I'm feeling the pride that I felt then. I am very proud of the armed forces." Clive Trivett, 68, who also lives in the town, said it was an honour to host the event and applauded the soldiers as they passed through the high street. "I am very happy and we should be supporting them even more," he said. "It's amazing how many people have come out to support them - it's great that we can have this event here in Kimberley." Among the crowds of families and local residents were a number of members and former members of the armed forces. Fred Thompson travelled from Sutton in Ashfield to be at the parade. The 76-year-old who served in the Royal Marines from 1955 to 1967 said: "It's a show of respect to the men and women. "It's about respecting what they have been putting up with and the job they do. We can't do without them. I think they are even more important than the NHS." Bev Tring-Urbankski, from Kimberley, added: "We're so proud to see so many people here today, it's marvellous. It shows they appreciate what they do." The special Military Parade, organised by Broxtowe Borough Council, gave people a chance to recognise the forces following tours of duty in Afghanistan. It was followed by a Drum Head Service at Hall Om Wong Park to commemorate the start of the First World War. As the men and women from the armed forces and the veterans marched down main street, another group of well-wishers and patriots at the site of the old Kimberley brewery prepared to welcome them. Anticipation growing, Dennis Jones, said: "It's just such a pleasure to be here and to give them the reminder that they are valued. "We've got to be grateful." The march follows parades in Beeston, Eastwood and Stapleford in recent years after the borough council gave the Freedom of Entry to the Borough of Broxtowe to the regiment "in recognition of their outstanding achievements, commitment and dedication in the service of this country". Mayor of the Borough of Broxtowe, Councillor Iris White said: "It is a great honour to hold another Freedom Parade in the borough, especially during this important year which marks the centenary of the First World War. "The Council is committed to recognising the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community and I hope that local people will join us to show their support and mark this important occasion."

Crowds applaud as soldiers and veterans parade the streets of Kimberley

NOTTINGHAM'S Downie sisters will return home laden with gold after a history making European Championships. Becky Downie ended her long wait for an individual title by winning the uneven bars final today, shortly after younger sister Ellie took the junior vault crown. Becky had already won team silver when she beat Olympic champion Aliya Mustafina to top the podium with an incredible score of 15.550 in Sofia. The Notts Gymnastics Academy star said: "I still can't believe it, it hasn't sunk in I'm just really, really happy. "There was a doubt in the back of my mind going for the big routine but I knew if I pulled it off I could win the gold medal. "To beat the Olympic champion is unbelievable but I knew it was possible. "I've worked so, so hard on this. You can see the emotion when I stuck my dismount, I knew it was going to be a medal. "Every final I've missed I kept having to pick myself up and sometimes you wonder if it will ever come and today it has, it's worth very moment to have this medal. "I can't believe what I've done and what this whole group of girls have achieved this week is absolutely amazing." Her last major individual medal was at the Commonwealth Games in 2006 . The Beijing Olympian went straight from collecting her gold medal on to the beam, where she produced a controlled routine after the elation of victory. She was tight and accurate in her connections and improved on her qualification score to total 14.366 for fifth place. The 22-year-old, along with Hannah Whelan, Rebecca Tunney, Claudia Fragapane and Ruby Harrold were team runners-up as they finished with a total of 170.663 to place behind gold medallists Romania, who won with 172.754, while Russia finished third more than a point back from Britain. Becky scored an impressive 14.833 on bars and also top scored for Britain on vault (14.700) and beam (14.133). The silver medal matched Great Britain's women's best-ever result at the European Championships in Birmingham four years ago, when Downie claimed a medal with Beth Tweddle, Jocelyn Hunt, Nicole Hibbert and Niamh Rippin. The 2014 team started their medal bid on the beam, where two-time European beam bronze medallist Whelan put in a strong performance as the team were fourth after the first rotation. Fragapane, a 16-year-old debutant, then impressed on the floor, before Downie produced a stunning vault as they moved up the leaderboard. Downie, Tunney and Harrold then kept their composure on the final apparatus, the bars, to move top of the leaderboard for a brief time, with Romania edging them out with their strong floor routines. Becky's success was mirrored by 14-year-old younger sister Ellie as she completed the full set of medals by adding vault gold to her team silver and all-around bronze medal won on Friday. Considering Great Britain had won one gold and one bronze in all the junior championships previously, her achievements were truly historic. Ellie said: "I just can't believe it. The whole week has been incredible. "I knew coming in to the vault final today having qualified in top spot that I had a good chance. "I just can't put into words how much this means to me but I'm very proud. The British juniors have definitely made a big statement this week and we all have huge confidence for the future." Ellie's vaults were high on difficulty, skill and precision scoring 14.933 and 14.333, an average of 14.633 for gold. On bars she qualified seventh and gave a confident performance today off the back of winning gold, scoring an 13.800 for fifth place.

Family joy as Becky and Ellie Downie savour European Championships gold

THE story of King John was brought back to life this weekend in the Nottinghamshire woodland he frequented during his reign. More than 100 members of historical re-enactment society Regalia Anglorum took visitors back to the year 1214 at Sherwood Pines Forest Park. A living history camp and spectacular arena displays featuring battles and skirmishes gave families an insight into what life was like while John was on the throne. Local history suggests acts of cruelty in the county during this period began a revolt that culminated in the signing of the Magna Carta. Organiser Lynda Mallett, of community heritage group The Friends of Thynghowe, said hundreds of people had turned up on Saturday and Sunday to immerse themselves in medieval life. She said: "A lot of people associate King John with Robin Hood and the legend of the Sheriff of Nottingham. "We're trying to tell the real history of King John, rather than just the myth and legend. "Our living history village shows the skills, smells, sights and sounds of what it would have been like walking into a medieval camp. "For the children who visit, that's mind blowing. "Everything is authentic – they can taste the bread that's just been baked, play games with the medieval children and try on the helmets and armour worn by the men in battle. "You can't get that in a classroom. "Here the children are just completely immersed in it all." Ted Jones, 49, has been a member of Regia Anglorum for 33 years. This weekend he played the role of a Nottinghamshire baron – one of the rebels who had begun to tire of the king raising taxes to pay for his campaigns in France. He said: "Learning about our history is incredibly important. "To understand where we are in the present, we have to understand where we have come from. "What we're doing here is showing a living history. We've got examples of the crafts that would have been done and the foods that would have been cooked. "It's a chance for people to really see what was available to people in that period to feed and clothe them." Volunteers from The Friends of Thynghowe raised the money to stage the event through private funding. Ms Mallett added: "The volunteers went round knocking on doors, begging and borrowing to make sure we could put this event on for the benefit of the local community." Amy Chandler, community ranger with the Forestry Commission, which runs Sherwood Pines, said: "Visitors love coming to things like this and think it's wonderful. "There's so much to learn about that historical and natural heritage of our region. "It's incredibly important to know about our past – if you don't know where you came from, how can you know where you're going?"

King John brought back to life at Sherwood Pines

NOTTS County Ladies maintained their unbeaten start to their Women's Super League campaign with a hard fought draw against defending champions Liverpool. In a game of few chances, Notts settled the better of the two sides but they could not fashion any clear cut chances, despite their endeavour. Notts defended superbly to restrict Liverpool to precious few opportunities, although they did hit the bar through Natasha Dowie in the first half. Both sides had gone into the game with unbeaten league records to protect and given Liverpool were last season's WSL champions, they were considered favourites. But Notts, who were top of the league, had proven they could wreck reputations having earned a draw with the all-conquering Arsenal on the opening day of the season. They were without striker Ellen White, who was ruled out through a knee injury which will keep her sidelined for the rest of the season. That meant Jess Clarke was given the responsibility of trying to dismantle Liverpool's attack in her absence, something which she had done remarkably well as she was the club's top scorer. Rick Passmoor was hoping his side could bounce back from their FA Cup semi-final defeat against Everton last week against a Liverpool side fancied to win the title again. The Reds certainly attempted to replicate how the men's team play with a desire to play out from the back, something which Lady Pies boss Passmoor was aware of. A high pressing game panicked the visitors, whose passing radar was scrambled in the face of Notts hunting in packs. With Clarke spearheading the attack and her fearsome pace a useful weapon against teams at Meadow Lane, it was just a case as to whether the home side could exploit the space. Serious chances were few and far between in the opening stages with the game largely dominated by skirmishes in midfield. But gradually Notts began to make inroads on the Liverpool defence which culminated in a tame shot from Desiree Scott when well placed. Clarke, who was given the freedom to roam anywhere along the frontline, began to cause problems with a long range effort which just cleared the bar. There was a warning for Passmoor's side when Dowie, niece of former West Ham striker Iain, hit the crossbar with a header. But back came Notts and predictably it was through the craft of Clarke, who came closest to opening the scoring. From an acute angle, she showed terrific technique, producing a fabulous long range strike that forced Libby Stout into a smart save. The resulting corner was swung outwards to the penalty spot for Rachel Corsie whose volleyed attempt cleared the bar. Although chances were at a premium, Passmoor would have urged his side to continue their harassment of a Liverpool defence who were unsettled when under pressure. Like the first half, the second was just as cagey until a wonderful pass from Aileen Whelan in behind Liverpool's back four was chased by Laura-Jayne O'Neill. Stout came rushing off her line when from out of nowhere, Clarke came bursting onto the scene. But the Reds goalkeeper did superbly to keep the ball under pressure thanks to her impeccable handling. Gemma Davison, the former Arsenal winger, had endured a quiet game, but the England international soon demonstrated her talent. A searing run threatened the Notts' defence with her progress eventually halted by Dunia Susi. A free-kick was awarded which, although it was tossed into the box, never really threatened Notts' back four. In the 63rd minute, Notts, who were remaining patient, fashioned the best opportunity of the game. Terrific hassling by Scott forced a mistake from Gemma Bonner allowing Susi to run clear through at goal. She burst into the box and attempted to shoot low across Stout, but her effort skimmed the post and fizzed behind for a goal kick. Liverpool rarely threatened and when they did, Sophie Bradley epitomised the sheer bloody mindedness with a superb block from a Dowie shot. Notts were certainly finishing the stronger of the two sides and when Clarke burst into the area, anticipation grew. She checked onto her left foot after a neat bit of skill, but her shot was deflected away by Bonner. Susi then did her best to break the deadlock when she chased a long ball into the channel before ploughing her way into the box. A drop of the shoulder allowed her to cut back onto her right foot but her shot cleared the bar. Notts pushed hard for a winner, but they could not find the breakthrough which their endeavour had perhaps deserved.

You might not think it matters if the odd bit of food goes bad in your cupboard but hundreds were shown this weekend how much they waste annually, by enjoying a free meal. The Feed the 1,000 challenge, held at Bestwood Country Park, had campaigners cook enough food to feed 1,000 people on £700 - the amount the average family wastes on food each year. The event was brought together by national organisation Love Food Hate Waste, alongside Nottinghamshire County Council and waste contractors Veolia. A selection of free meals from pasta to biryani were on offer, as well as displays showing the physical amount of food that goes in the bin annually and creative leftover recipe ideas It is the second year the event has run at the park and judging by the queues of people lining up to dig in, it seemed the message was resonating. Notts County Council Waste Strategy Development Officer Rachel Peck was at the event offering advice throughout the day. She said: "Things like sell-by dates and use by-dates cause a lot of confusion. "People might throw away bread as soon as it passes the date on the packet." It is estimated that across the whole of the UK over £12 billion worth of food ends up in landfill. Spokesman for Veolia Kevin Parker said the Bestwood Park event was the first in a roadshow they had planned based off the success of last year. He added: "People are really shocked by the amount of food that gets chucked away. "It's things like when they cook too much pasta and rice, that then goes in the bin. "We want to help reduce the amount that goes in landfill, to make things more sustainable for the future." Laura Millward, 30, from Bestwood Village was visiting with her family and said it was a important cause to root for. She said: "We came last year and I think it's a really great idea. "It tends to happen when you bring stuff in from the supermarkets, you buy too much and then things go off." Leonie Williams, 65, also from Bestwood Village, said she and her family do their best to make sure nothing is spared in their kitchen. She said: "When we were younger we were shown how to use all our leftovers but it's a different generation now. "I don't get scared by things like sell-by dates, I never take any notice of them." Love Food Not Waste will be holding another two events next month as well and the events are free to attend. They take place on Sunday, June 1 from 11am-3pm at King George V Park in Mansfield and Sunday, June 15 from 11am-3pm at Bridge Field in West Bridgford. Are you supporting a cause you want to shout about? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Hundreds enjoy free meal in Bestwood Village in campaign fight against food waste

Pooches were on parade at Batman's home this weekend as the RSPCA held its annual family fun day. Hundreds of dog-owners enjoyed the baking sun at Wollaton Park with competitions and sponsored tours to entertain the crowds. It is the 42nd year it has taken place in Wollaton and with hopes to raise more than £10,000 for vulnerable animals. Sharon Thorpe, 50 from Mansfield came down with her French Bulldog, Momo, for a meet-up with other owners from across the Midlands. She said: "It's been such a lovely day, we've had friends up for it and it's been a delight to meet up with everyone and see all the other dogs." Gayle Tebbutt, 62, from Beeston Rylands came along with her Labrador, Jimmy Grimble, who won best male at the event's dog show. Gayle said: "We've only had him a few months so it's not a bad effort for his first doggy out "I's been a fantastic day." RSPCA Organisers Donna Cuthbert and Jo Maddock have been putting the event on for the past three years and said the scorching weather and light-hearted mood had made the day a smash. Jo said: "It's meant to be very lighthearted but I can see there's quite a lot of people taking it very seriously." Donna added: "As inspectors we often have to deal with terrible things so it's lovely to see so many smiling faces and happy dogs. Got an event coming up you want to shout about? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Dog owners get together in the sun at RSPCA fun day at Wollaton Park

FOREST super fan Ken Parr had the birthday party of his dreams in the City Ground boardroom. Four generations of his family and friends from all over the country celebrated among the trophies and pictures of famous victories ahead of Mr Parr's 90th birthday on Thursday. The former Imperial Tobacco worker has been a season ticket holder for nearly 70 years – since the end of the Second World War, when he served as a tank driver in Belgium and Germany – until a lung condition stopped him going to games at Christmas. But the 89-year-old's family organised a surprise party yesterday, (SUNDAY) to return him to his second home – with Forest's bosses allowing special access to the exclusive boardroom. Mr Parr, who lives in Aspley, said: "I started coming to games when I came out of the Army. I was like everyone – they were my team. "I saw the two European cup finals in Munich and Madrid – they were the best days. "When Forest were in the Third Division me and two mates followed them and visited every ground in the league." The grandfather of four and great-grandfather of three added: "The football has deteriorated – years ago the players seemed to have an aura. I never really had one favourite but always liked players who shot and put it in the back of the net. "The City Ground is a very special place, it's amazing to be around the trophies." One of Mr Parr's three daughters, Kate Griffin, who lives in Bingham, said: "It's somewhere that means so much to him and he's not been able to get down since he was ill this Christmas. He's really enjoyed the day. "He's a very quiet chap and keeps himself to himself – Forest is his man interest along with his family." The day was made even more special when Reds legend John McGovern dropped in to join the celebrations. "The Nottingham Forest staff wheeled Dad round pitch-side and say would you like to see the pitch? added Kate. "They took us into the dugout and John McGovern came out and spent ages chatting and having photos with Dad. He loved it." Mrs Griffin's husband, Andy, said it was incredible to be celebrating Mr Parr's 90th birthday. There's nobody who has reached an age like this in our family," he said. It's incredible. "This is the perfect place to celebrate his birthday." Have you reached a special milestone? Let us know by email at newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

City Ground party for 90-year-old Nottingham Forest super fan

THE ambulance service in Nottinghamshire is prosecuting more people who assault frontline staff than any other service in the country. Paramedics have reported more than double the number of assaults in the past year than two years ago. But East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) is cracking down on the violence – which often happens when patients are under the influence of drink or drugs. Figures obtained by the Post through a Freedom of Information request show EMAS is taking action against assailants in about 90 per cent of reported incidents – over 20 per cent more than any other English ambulance service. A number of sanctions are available to the service, including criminal prosecutions, fines, Asbos, police cautions and restorative justice. The service hires trained investigators to look into all offences and then presents evidence to the police. Nick Arnold, EMAS security management specialist, is one of a two-man team tasked with tackling the issue. He said: "We've done an enormous amount of work with the police over the years and built up a great relationship. "If somebody is ill, that's fair enough and they need to be in the care system. "If it's a result of intoxication, we will go after them. Intoxication with alcohol or drugs makes up around 50 per cent of the cases. "We're talking about health professionals doing their job. That's what it's about. It's unfortunate in this day and age that we have to have this kind of service but it's an indictment of what is occurring in society and it's only right we do what we can to protect our staff." The figures show the number of assaults on paramedics has increased from 66 in 2011-12 to 131 in the last financial year. But the proportion of people prosecuted has increased markedly too, with EMAS now taking action in 90 per cent of cases, rather than 67 per cent as in 2008-09. Mr Arnold said the rise in reported assaults could be attributed to staff being encouraged to report all problems. North East ambulance service, which covers Newcastle and Sunderland, is the only other trust to take action in more than 50 per cent of cases. Some ambulance trusts impose sanctions in fewer than 10 per cent of cases, according to latest figures. A spokesman for Nottinghamshire Police said: "We work closely with our emergency services partners and we treat assault very seriously, especially when it is against people who are in the day-to-day business of saving lives." Richard Webber, director of communications for the Royal College of Paramedics, said: "Assaults on paramedics are increasing and are unacceptable. The College of Paramedics would expect appropriate action to be taken when they occur." Have you been helped by paramedics? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampost.com.

East Midlands Ambulance Service crack down on paramedic assaults

SUN worshippers were out in force to enjoy the hottest weekend of the year so far in Notts. With a sweltering average of 22°C in the city on Saturday and 23°C yesterday – matching temperatures in Barcelona, Malta and Corfu – parks and beer gardens were full of people soaking up the heat. Notts was only 2°C behind the hottest place in the country – St James' Park in London –where temperatures reached 24.1°C. And with forecasters predicting that the hot spell will not last, thousands of people descended on Wollaton Park to make the most of the fine weather. Thunder storms are set to roll in this evening and tomorrow, (mon and tues) bringing cooler conditions later in the week. Wollaton mum Sadath Ashfaq, 41, spent an afternoon with her family at Wollaton Park yesterday. sun "It's been a real treat enjoying this weather with my kids," she said. "We're really looking forward to the summer holidays now – the kids really enjoy going down to the Old Market Square and the beach." Another visitor to the park was Sean Starbuck, 26, from Kimberley. He said: "I've been down by the canal and out for lunch and met up with some friends at the Dragon pub in Long Row." Ming Chee Chung had been spending the weekend sunbathing and running. The 26-year-old, from Mansfield, said: "When the weather is this good I really enjoy going to Wollaton Park or the Arboretum, I love relaxing there." And Terri Hazelden, 23, from Aspley, said: "We were in town yesterday and went to the outdoor market in Old Market Square – the weather was so nice." Although forecasters are predicting a warm June, the current hot spell is not set to last. Met Office spokeswoman Helen Roberts said: "The high temperatures are due to high pressure and wind directions. "The winds came from the south and south east, bringing a warm, continental air flow, and the high pressure tends to keep the clouds at bay. "Unfortunately we will see a gradual change in weather conditions during this week. "Today Monday will generally be a fine, dry and warm day, with a small chance of isolated showers. On Tuesday there will be a higher chance of seeing some showers and we will start seeing some more unsettled conditions. "Temperatures will probably cool down mid-week." Temperatures are expected to reach around 22°C tomorrow, with scattered showers and cloud, and fall to 16°C by Friday. Have you been enjoying the weather? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Sun worshippers enjoy hottest day of the year

DIVIDED opinion over the tram works has been the inspiration for one business to create a new "love it or hate it" snack – the Beeston Tram Dog.

Jerry's At Beeston came up with the new hot dog which staff think will leave customers either queuing at the door or avoiding it at all costs – much like the tram developments.

The restaurant, in High Road, has now started selling the Beeston Tram Dog – a foot long Bockwurst sausage with a tramline of Marmite right down the middle.

The tongue-in-cheek idea was dreamt up by owner Mark Edis, who thought that it would be a fitting tribute to an issue that has dominated the town for more than a year.

He said: "We all know that the tram is the biggest thing to ever happen in Beeston and will have a massive impact on future business and retail performance.

"It's quite easy as a business to get caught up in the disruption but, as any good entrepreneur knows, it's what you do with the situations that make the

biggest difference.

"Marmite on meat works really well because it gives it a tang, and with a warm roll it is lovely. It is exactly like the tram because some love it and others hate it.

"We're generally a family favourite venue but the tram works have seen more of the workers popping in for a snack.

"Hopefully they'll see the funny side of our little gesture and try it out for themselves."

Chilwell Road closed to traffic on March 25 last year and, in January, contractor Taylor Woodrow Alstom told businesses that the "full completion" of track laying for the tram extension would not be until July – four months later than planned.

Restaurant manager Natasha Crookes loves the combination.

Natasha, 37, said: "It is such a great idea and taste so good. However, we are getting a mixed reaction and we only officially launched it this week.

"I think it will really catch on for one reason or another. It is a strange combination but really works and people should come and try it."

Beeston saw more than 100,000 visitors in April and the town's Business Improvement District (BID) has praised the new hot dog and hopes people will travel to try it.

BID manager Stephanie Wilkinson said: "This is a fantastic example of creative thinking from the Jerry's team.

"Mark's a positive character and always keen to get involved in our initiatives to help Beeston pull in the crowds.

"This latest idea shows off the character of their unique brand brilliantly and I'm sure will raise a few smiles.

"For the record I didn't think I liked Marmite but I just tried a bite and it wasn't half bad."

A NET Project spokesperson said: "It's fantastic to hear that a local company is being so innovative and fun with its new tram-themed hot dog.

"We're sure that people will love it when they try it, just like the new tram services."

The Beeston Tram Dog is available now for £4.40.

Have you tried it? Let us know by emailing newdesk @nottinghampost.com.

Will Beeston's Tram Dog be a hit or miss with punters?

INVESTING in new technology for staff will save the Notts County Council money in the long term, it is claimed. As well as councillors getting iPads to cut back on paper, some departments will also start to use computer tablets in their day-to-day work. One area that has already been testing out the new technology is adult social care. Caroline Jones has been with the department for 12 years and her patch includes Ashfield, Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe. She was given an iPad a year ago to record case notes and says it has made her work much more efficient. She added: "There were times when I would travel from one case in Sutton-in-Ashfield back to the base in Arnold to deal with the notes and then travel back out again for another case. "But now I can work remotely it's helped a lot – it's meant I spend more time doing what I do and less time travelling. "It's also much easier to carry around than a heavy laptop and I know it is there when I need it for my work." The department has bought 100 iPads as part of a pilot project. "It was a bit of a change at first but I think technology like this is worth it in the long run because it makes things easier," Mrs Jones said. And council leader Alan Rhodes said that investing to save was part of the authority's Redefining Your Council project, where the authority will look at everything it does to see how it could be run more efficiently, including potentially outsourcing work to private or voluntary bodies. Mr Rhodes said: "We need to invest in new technology. We have currently got social workers out there with notebooks making case notes, coming back here and then either they or someone else writing it all up. "If they have an iPad, they can do it there and then in a car or wherever they are. "It's more cost-efficient, effective and I would argue that, if you were running a business, you would do it that way. Well money matters here now and we need to catch up with that." The council added: "The system that has been created is capable of working both off and online, which means no matter where the social worker is, they can still use it. "This puts us at the forefront of mobile working and we believe there are few, if any, local authorities outside London using a system which has offline capability. "In terms of data security, the system meets all the requirements of the Public Services Network code – the recognised standard for the retention of sensitive data set by the Cabinet Office. "Every device is encrypted and the information on the device is further encrypted." What do you think? Email opinion@nottinghampost.com

Time-saving iPads set to cut down on Notts County Council's costs

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE'S biggest construction business says it's back in profit as the outlook for the industry improves. North Midland Construction has been plagued by losses brought on by a mix of an industry downturn and hefty costs related to disputed contract overruns. But bosses said today that the Huthwaite-based operations had made a profit of £234,000 in the first three months of this year. They also say that the firm's order books are £20 million ahead of where they were this time last year - a figure which looks likely to rise. In an interim management statement issued this morning, the Stock Market company said: "It is gratifying to be able to report a return to profitability in the first quarter, as the prospects for the construction industry in general start to improve." North Midland, which directly employs around 1,000 people, works on major contracts for clients like utility companies and local authorities. It has divisions which focus on civil engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering and highways work. It said business in its highways and utilities division had begun slowly in he first three months of this year, while revenue across the whole business was £44.5 million, a drop of 1.5 per cent on the same period in 2013. However, its £234,000 surplus compared to a loss of £105,000 in the first three months of 2013. It has also won confirmed orders worth £160m for the year ahead, compared to £140m in the first quarter of 2013. It added: "At this stage, this total only includes firm orders placed under the framework contracts [consortiums of firms which work together on major construction projects]. These orders will increase, as there is good visibility of the projected level of annual expenditure on the major frameworks." North Midland also highlighted good performance by NMC Nomenca, a division of the company which does work with water firms, while its building and civil engineering division is also said to be doing better. The company concluded: "The current level of secured orders is strong and there has been some return to growth in the construction market, most particularly in the highways sector. "The water business of NMCNomenca and Nomenca continue to benefit from robust expenditure in the penultimate year of the AMP5 programme [works carried out by water firms]. "Notwithstanding the unknown resolution of the two problematic aforementioned Building & Civil Engineering contracts, the Board is cautiously optimistic that the improved performance can be maintained."

Notts-based North Midland Construction hails return to profit

A NOTTINGHAM science firm has seen a major leap in sales revenues after it bought two businesses last year. Source Bioscience, which provides testing services for researchers, pharmaceutical firms and health services, said revenue was 55 per cent higher in the first three months of 2014 than it was in the same period in 2013. It said the rise was due to the contribution of Inverclyde and Vindon, two science industry businesses it bought last year, as well as the growth of its existing activities. Besides acquisitions of new businesses, Source Bioscience has also invested heavily in its own facilities, with high-speed DNA testing machinery used by the lifesciences industry. In an interim management statement issued this morning, the Stock Market company, which is based at Nottingham Business Park, said it had launched new two DNA testing initiatives in the US market in the first quarter of this year, while also winning a series of new health screening contracts for councils in the UK. It has also renewed a cancer screening contract worth £1.1m over the next five years, and opened a new DNA testing facility in Ireland In its statement, Source Bioscience added: "Although still early in the year, the group is trading in line with management expectations and continues to build on the strong operational performance delivered during the second half of 2013. "The acquisitions made during 2013 have opened significant opportunities to the group, both from additional products and services and the extension of the group's geographic reach. "Source BioScience now has access to new markets and customers, and an established platform for international growth across mainland Europe, in addition to the East and West coasts of the USA. "The board remains confident of the outlook for the full year and anticipates that each of these factors will continue to contribute to the further progress of the group during the remainder of 2014 and beyond."

Nottingham's Source Bioscience reveals big leap in revenue

JAMAL Campbell-Ryce has rejected the chance to stay at Notts County to sign for Sheffield United. The winger was offered a new deal at Meadow Lane by boss Shaun Derry, but he has turned it down in favour of a move to Bramall Lane to work with Nigel Clough. Campbell-Ryce played 79 games for the Magpies, after joining them on a free transfer in 2012, scoring 11 goals in League One. He has signed a two-year deal with the Blades, which will start on July 1 when his contract at Meadow Lane ends. His exit is a blow to Notts as Derry tries to build a stronger team for next season because Campbell-Ryce was a key figure at Meadow Lane in the last two seasons, especially during the club's successful battle against relegation during this campaign.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce turns down Notts County to join Sheffield United

ITV Drama Broadchurch, which starred Nottingham's Vicky McClure, has won best drama series at this year's TV Bafta awards. The awards, which took place last night, celebrated the best talent on the small screen. The crime drama also picked up two other awards with best female actor for Olivia Colman and best supporting actor for David Bradley. The show is currently being remade for the US by the series' creator, Chris Chibnall, who is also planning on a sequel. In Broadchurch, McClure played news reporter Karen White, asked to investigate the death of a small child. Speaking to the Post previously about the role she said: "I think it takes a very specific person to be a journalist and I'm just not that person. "But in Broadchurch, I think you will see that Karen is very dedicated to her job, but also conscious of the position she holds. "She can be ruthless but I wanted to try to show she felt real sympathy for the family too." McClure won a Bafta in 2011 for her role as Lol in Shane Meadows' This is England 88. Other big winners included Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway for best entertainment show and entertainment performance while comedy series The IT Crowd took two awards for actors Richard Ayoade and Katherine Parkinson. Julie Water was also presented a Fellowship, Bafta's highest honour, and TV personality Cilla Black was honoured in recognition of her contribution to entertainment over the past 50 years.

Baftas 2014: Broadchurch - starring Nottingham's Vicky McClure - wins best drama

Bosses at an academy have told parents they expect a proposed takeover deal to be approved shortly. Sherwood E-Act Academy in Gedling is likely to become part of the Redhill Academy Trust. The move comes after current sponsors E-Act decided they wanted to withdraw support from the academy over concerns about performance. An application has been submitted to the Department for Education asking for approval of the change in leadership. A letter to parents, sent last week, said: "Sherwood E-Act Academy continue to work with our proposed new sponsor, Redhill Academy, and our current sponsor, E-Act,to help drive forward the academy's transfer. "We appreciate that the uncertainty is unsettling for staff, students and parents as they wait further information. We hope to receive Ministerial approval in principle shortly from the Department of Education, confirming that Redhill Academy will be Sherwood's new sponsor." The trust runs Redhill Academy, in Arnold, Eastwood School and Carlton Academy.

Sherwood E-Act Academy deal expected shortly, parents told

Our highly anticipated half-term days out are back and better than ever - just in time for the school holidays next week. We're giving you some fabulous savings at well known attractions both locally and further afield including White Post Farm, Wheelgate Park, Alton Towers and LEGOLAND. To get your discounted vouchers, simply get your copy of the Nottingham Post this week (19-24 May), take the coupon to your chosen attraction and claim the discount. Sadly, we can't guarantee the weather!Monday White Post Farm Wheelgate Alton TowersTuesday Conkers Hardy's Animal Farm Butlins SkegnessWednesday Jorvik Viking Centre The York Dungeon Drayton ManorThursday Twinlakes Trentham Monkey Forest Alton Towers WaterparkFriday The Blackpool Tower Dungeon Madame Tussauds Blackpool Legoland ManchesterSaturday Langar Karting Quasar Sea Life Centre BirminghamSee the Post each day this week for your discount voucher. Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to each individual voucher/attraction for the specific terms and conditions.

May Half-Term Days Out Offers

TRAM passengers will no longer be able to buy tickets in the carriage from Tuesday. Operators Nottingham Express Transit have said customers will only be able to purchase their tickets from machines located at tram stops. The machines went live at the end of last month, along with smart card readers for regular users. Paul Robinson, NET General Manager said: "The change has been widely accepted by our customers and well over 90 per cent of people are either using the ticket machines or validators where they possess season tickets, concessionary cards or Mango smartcards. "Whilst the new system was bedding in, conductors have been selling tickets to the small number of customers who were unaware of the change. "Overall we are delighted with the way things have gone and that so many of our customers have adapted to the changes so smoothly." NET is advising all customers they should buy tickets before boarding the tram. Over the next few weeks, conductors will still be on board the tram, offering help and advice. To view a ticket machine user guide go www.thetram.net/buy-before-you-board where there is also an instructional video.

Nottingham tram passengers no longer able to buy tickets on board

POLICE have charged an 18-year-old with causing grievous bodily harm following the stabbing of a teenager. Callum Harrison, 18, of Bramcote Avenue in Chilwell was arrested following the incident which took place in Bramcote Avenue at around 6pm on Friday evening. Six police cars and an ambulance were called to the scene with the street closed at one point. The victim was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre and treated for a stab wound. His injuries were not thought to be life-threatening. Harrison is set to appear at Nottingham Magistrates' Court at a later date. Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to call police on 101.

Eighteen-year-old charged after teenager stabbed in Chilwell