VIDEO: Carl Froch says his knockout punch on George Groves was 'best of my life'

June 1, 2014, 6:15 am

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CARL Froch says the crushing right-hand that knocked out George Groves in the eighth round at Wembley on Saturday was the biggest and most satisfying punch of his career. Froch settled the simmering rivalry between the pair and retained his IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles with a breathtaking hit that left Groves crumpled on the floor in front of 80,000 fans. "That was the best punch of my life," Froch said. "You define a good punch from what it means, and what that meant was the whole George Groves saga and the history of the fight came to an end. "People will look back in years to come and say that was the right hand that finished it all off."

Froch added: "I just threw it, I didn't really try to knock him out. I didn't load up, I just threw the punch and just landed it lovely. "It was just a lovely pear of a shot and it closed the show and that's what world-class fighters do." Froch had come under heavy scrutiny since beating Groves with a controversial ninth-round stoppage in November. The London challenger claimed he had dominated that battle and predicted at the final press conference on Thursday that he would knock Froch out with a left hook. Froch admits the hype surrounding the legitimacy of his first victory made the win at Wembley all the more rewarding. "It's one of the most satisfying nights of my life – I've had the weight of the world on my shoulders," Froch said. "I've had George Groves in the back of my ear hole for the last year because he was in my ear for the (Mikkel) Kessler fight in May 2013. It's now May 2014. "I've boxed Groves twice in a year and I've just not heard the end of it." At 36, Froch is ten years Groves' senior and the Nottingham veteran admits the fight was always destined to define his reputation. "It was a legacy fight – I've had such a long, fantastic career, I've been involved in so many top-level fights," Froch said. "But I said my legacy was at stake and it was, because unfortunately in boxing people remember you for your last fight." He continued: "My career would have been over – I would have retired if I had lost. "In the biggest night in British fighting history post-war I didn't want to be remembered as a loser." After the fight, Froch offered Groves some words of consolation. "I told him not to go home and be too down and out or go on a downward spiral because you're a great fighter – you were in that fight up until that point," Froch explained. "I punch very hard and unfortunately I caught you with a shot that finished you off and that's boxing. "It happens to some of the great fighters – you get hit with one shot and George hasn't quite got that toughness you need at the top, top level. "I said that from the start – he's a good fighter, he's got quick hands, he's skilful and he's done a few bits as an amateur. But if I fight George Groves ten times I beat him ten times. "That's not being big-headed, I've got ingredients you can't teach. You're born with them – toughness and heart and a mindset and a determination – you can't train that." Froch added: "They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger – that could kill him. I shouldn't use that word but it could finish him off or he could get determination from that and come back better. "It's down to his character now, it's up to him. But who am I to give him advice? I don't think he likes me." Groves taunted Froch throughout the build-up to the fight but the 26-year-old was magnanimous in defeat. "Carl Froch is a strong, seasoned world champion and there's no quit in him," Groves said. "Fair play to Carl, he got the job done and was the better man on the night. "I'm still 26 years old and I just boxed in front of 80,000 fans. I didn't get the result I wanted but I was boxing well and I'm sure I'm going to have a long boxing career ahead of me. "I of course plan to be world champion still – and plan to be in the not too distant future."

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Nottinghamshire MP Anna Soubry calls some constituents "racist" over immigration issues

June 1, 2014, 6:55 am

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Broxtowe MP Anna Soubry has said that some of her constituents who raise concerns about immigration are "frankly racist". Ms Soubry, who is the Conservative defence minister, told BBC One's Andrew Marr show that immigrants come to Britain "overwhelmingly to work" and not "to scrounge". Ms Soubry said: "When you make the case with people who come and see me in my constituency surgery who say I'm really worried about immigration. You say really, why? This is Broxtowe. We don't have a problem with immigrants. "When you explain that to them they get it. Not all of it. Some people have prejudices, some people are frankly racist, but there are many who just don't know the argument." The MP added that immigrants play a "hugely important" role and that fewer immigrants claim benefits than people who are born in this country.

Passengers angry over Trent Barton bus fare rise

June 1, 2014, 8:31 am

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Frustrated bus passengers travelling from Bingham to Nottingham claim they were left in the dark over increases to their daily fares. Michael Norton, who catches the Trent Barton Rushcliffe Greens service every weekday, was horrified to discover his daily 'Mango' fare had increased a month earlier without him realising. After contacting Trent Barton, he was told the changes had been posted on the company's website and social media sites. But Mr Norton says this did not give customers proper warning. The 32-year-old, from Chilwell Gardens in Bingham, said: "I'm not usually one to complain but I've just about had enough. As a regular user I never go on the Trent Barton website. Why would I think to check it for price changes? "It was only when I looked at my Mango account a couple of weeks ago that I realised the daily fare had gone up from £2.40 to £2.50 each way. "It had already gone up from £2.20 a few months ago. "I hadn't seen any warning about it so I was very surprised. I'd have thought they could have sent out a simple email to let people know. "If any of my utility companies changed prices in this way the industry regulators would step in straight away. "Trent Barton emails me all of the time about Mango Moments companies. Details of fare changes would be far more useful." The price change affected only a small number of Trent Barton routes, including Mango fares from Long Eaton, Radcliffe and Cotgrave. Mr Norton added: "The annoying thing is that they have posters on the buses to say they have frozen the fares for journeys in the city centre. It's like rubbing salt into your wounds." Claire Parr, of Rufford Grove in Bingham, uses the same service three times a week and was also unaware of the price changes. The 45-year-old said: "Even though they put it on their website, not a lot of people will have looked on the site. They should have made sure it was advertised in a way people were going to come into contact with it. What about all the people who use the buses who don't have internet access or aren't on social media? "They need to tell people about price rises in a much clearer way." Both Mr Norton and Ms Parr said they are also frustrated by late buses, overcrowding and buses simply not turning up. Ms Parr, a marketing operations executive, is visually impaired and uses a disabled bus pass. But she cannot use it before 9.30am. She said: "There used to be a reduction with a bus pass before 9.30am but they scrapped that. "For disabled people who have no option but to get public transport it's very frustrating. "I have to pay the full price of £3.60 in the mornings, which is a lot for a journey that's just down the A52 into town." Mr Norton added: "There are a lot of journeys that take longer but are cheaper than the Bingham route. It seems very unfair. "Sometimes buses don't turn up or can be very overcrowded. It just seems like we're having to pay more money for a lesser service." A Trent Barton spokesman said: "We advertise changes to fares on our website and on social media, which represent the majority of points where customers head to for information. We're sorry if the customer missed this. "In terms of the free concessionary travel scheme, the times of validity are set by the local authority. "We made some changes at the end of March to provide bigger buses, which has helped to deal with the growing number of customers using the Rushcliffe Greens. We are introducing another larger bus into these routes over the summer to assist further. "If customers are ever dissatisfied they are welcome to ask for their money back, no quibble, on the spot, from any Trent Barton driver." What do you think? Leave us a comment below

City council launches clean-up campaign to spruce up Nottingham

June 1, 2014, 8:45 am

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Fly-tipping, dog mess and litter are in the council's sights as a six-week campaign to spruce up the city is launched. The clean-up blitz will see street cleaners targeting certain problem areas – such as Sneinton, Sherwood and Aspley – as well as educating people to stop untidiness being a problem. And the launch of the campaign on Monday will see people able to follow the cleaning crews in their day-to-day work, with other events planned until mid-July. There will then be days of action held across the city to tackle problem hotspots. Greg Feltham, of the Sneinton Tenants' and Residents' Association, said previous campaigns to tackle litter issues had worked. He said: "It's worked really well. We used to have a problem with rubbish on the streets and some people who were perhaps not used to how things were done thought that was how it should be left. "It took quite a lot of effort to change minds but the difference it has made is huge. "Campaigns like this do make a difference because people care about where they live and once areas get a bit bad, they can deteriorate quickly. Making an effort to getting a place looking good is worth it." Work will also take place over the six weeks in schools to educate youngsters about litter as well as a dog mess week where the council will encourage people to 'love their park' and not let their dog foul. Nicola Heaton, portfolio holder for community services at Nottingham City Council, said: "The council works day in and day out to tackle enviro-crimes in neighbourhoods such as fly-tipping, dog-fouling, litter and graffiti. There is always more to do and we need the support of local people and report issues and make changes in their behaviour. "Our teams work hard across the city to keep it clean and with the support of local people we hope we can keep the clean and build on our already clean neighbourhoods to drive satisfaction with our citizens. "We know the cleanliness of neighbourhoods is a priority with local people and we really want to work with local people and encourage them to make small changes such as making sure they always pick up after their dog and put litter in the bin." Richard Antcliff, head of neighbourhood enforcement and operational support at community protection, said: "We know the vast majority of people are law-abiding and sensible when it comes to our environment. However, for the small minority that fail to clean up after their dog, throw litter down or dump rubbish, we will use all of our available enforcement powers." Is there a grot-spot near you that needs sorting? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost

Eddie Stobart-themed Reliant Robin among highlights at Post Motor Show

June 1, 2014, 9:51 am

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Darren Butler owns nearly 30 Reliant Robins, but one turns more heads than others. The car, which is nearly as old as he is, in question is covered in the livery of well-known haulage firm Eddie Stobart. And it was turning heads on Sunday, gaining a huge amount of interest at the Nottingham Post Motor Show and Autokarna. The 1971 model was one of hundreds of classic cars on display at Wollaton Park. Mr Butler, 44, of Mansfield Woodhouse, has owned the car for about four years and has taken it to dozens of car shows. He said: "It always creates a lot of interest. I have people following me and flashing their headlights at me. They are fascinated by it." Mr Butler hires the car out for use at special events. It has already been used for a school prom and taking a bridegroom to a wedding. He has another booking for a wedding next year. He said: "The man who previously owned it tried for four years to get permission from Eddie Stobart to use the livery on the car. "I already had some Reliants – I've got 28 – and he actually gave it to me for no money at all. All he asked was that I take it to shows like this one, which I enjoy doing." Classic cars included Ford Mustangs, Minis and Jaguars. There were also motorbikes and even public transport, including new and old buses and black cabs. Dean Atkinson, 48, of Arnold, was exhibiting his 1989 Lotus Esprit for the first time. He said: "I've got a mate who brings his bike down here and he got in touch to recommend I bring my car. I've only had it about a year but I'd give it a go and contacted the organisers. "It has had some interest. There's a lot of really nice cars around here. It's a great place to come." Thousands of people turned up to wonder through the cars on show at the Autokarna. Others look at new cars on display at the Motor Show. There were also games and fairground rides. Sarah Robinson, 38, of Bakersfield, said: "It's a really good family occasion. There's some great cars on show. It is good to have a look and event get to sit inside some." Geoff Dawson, 54, of Mapperley, said: "I've come here for the past four or five years. It's a really good event. "I'm a 60s boy so I like looking at the cars from that era." Have you got a classic car you are proud of? E-mail newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Lottery joy for single mum from Eastwood

June 1, 2014, 10:04 am

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A single mum from Eastwood has come forward to claim a Lotto jackpot. The woman bought the lucky ticket for the draw on Saturday, May 10, days before her birthday. It has won her £1,171,812. She described it as the "best belated birthday present, ever". She is due to be unveiled tomorrow. The woman is the latest from the county to strike it rich on a lottery. Last year, Nottinghamshire was revealed as being one of the luckiest place in the country, having more National Lottery millionaires than anywhere else in the East Midlands. Previous winners include Matt and Cassey Topham - who scooped £45 million on the EuroMillions – and Alan Rowley, who won £1.9 million on the Lotto. In fact, since the National Lottery started in 1994, it has made 49 people with an NG postcode millionaires. Meanwhile, 502 prizes of £50,000 have been paid out, leaving Notts fifth in that particular table. Mr Rowley picked up his fortune in August 2008. He splashed out on holidays abroad, spent £500,000 on a new home in Selston, with an additional £15,000 on his driveway and £110,000 on his garden. He has urged other people in the area to buy a ticket, adding: "It has certainly helped me do something I wouldn't have before, but it hasn't really changed me."

Is Carl Froch's knockout punch the best ever?

June 1, 2014, 10:19 am

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CARL Froch's punch which knocked out George Groves is being considered as one of the best in any world title bout. Here, the Post looks at similar devastating blows. Buster Douglas v Mike Tyson, 1990: Considered as one of the biggest shocks in sporting history, Buster Douglas won the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles with a stunning display to dethrone the fearsome Mike Tyson in Japan in 1990. Tyson had conquered all before him and was 37-0 going into the bout. But a devastating uppercut followed by a left-hand produced a famous knockout. Manny Pacquiao v Ricky Hatton, 2009: The IBO and Ring light-welterweight titles were on the line at the MGM Grand as Ricky Hatton took on the menacing puncher Manny Pacquiao, largely considered as the best pound for pound fighter there is. What transpired was heartbreaking for Britain's loveable star, who was knocked down twice in the opening round. But it was the second when Pacquiao really made his power felt with a thudding left-hand that left Hatton prone for several minutes and prompted his retirement. Thomas Hearns v Roberto Duran, 1984: Roberto Duran had never been knocked out in his career prior to this meeting with Thomas 'Hitman' Hearns as the WBC light middleweight title was put on the line. But Hearns delivered an unbelievable right-hand in the second round which was so punishing the referee instantly called a halt to the contest. Mike Tyson v Trevor Berbick, 1986: Trevor Berbick put his WBC heavyweight title on the line in what was his first defence against 'Iron' Mike, who had built up a formidable reputation. And he became the youngest heavyweight champion of the world when he ripped the belts from Berbick with a stunning left to the temple. Berbick attempted twice to get up during the count, but infamously stumbled and fell over. Marvin Hagler v Thomas Hearns, 1985: Billed as one of the greatest boxing fights ever, and with the WBC, WBA and IBF straps up for grabs, this was a truly astonishing contest. Marvin Hagler was cut in the opening round while Thomas Hearns broke his hand while delivering a right. Eventually, a monumental battle was settled in the third round when Hagler threw a devastating right-hand, followed by two uppercuts from which Hearns could not beat the ten count.

Sussex v Nottinghamshire: Day one report

June 1, 2014, 11:25 am

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SAMIT Patel can rarely have felt as comfortable at the crease in his career. The Nottinghamshire all-rounder is now the leading scorer in Division One of the County Championship after an imperious century at Hove today, his second of the season. Patel will start tomorrow morning unbeaten on 142 having overtaken Australian run machine Chris Rodgers' 591 for the season, moving on to 649 in the Championship already. No doubt he would say the team is more important so he will be pleased Notts took charge against Sussex on day one, closing on 408 for five after losing the toss. It was the brilliance of Patel that grabbed the headlines though as he scored a hundred for the second straight year on the south coast. So much has been written about the way he looks rather than the way he plays, but it is surely becoming impossible to ignore Patel as a holding spinner for England given his runs. He was expertly backed up by skipper Chris Read, who was happy to play in his shadow, moving to 61 not out in an unbroken partnership of 160. Earlier Phil Jaques made a far more scratchy 67 as Sussex bowled well earlier the day. They were poor in the field throughout though as Ben Brown put down a simple chance and then failed to hold on to two far more difficult ones. His first error, putting down Jaques after three balls set the tone and Notts finished the day by taking debutant seamer Matt Hobden to the cleaners. Jaques was troubled from the first ball as he edged it straight through the slips and down to the third man boundary - the first of an almost unfathomable amount of runs in that area in the morning. Jaques should have gone two balls later when, still on four, he nicked Steve Magoffin straight to Brown at first slip. Usually a wicket-keeper, he was clearly missing the gloves as an easy chance went straight in and out. Jaques responded by dispatching a wide ball to the boundary before the last ball of Magoffin's over down the hill from the Cromwell End was edged for another lucky boundary. The battle of the Australians continued with Magoffin unfortunate to see his figures take a hammering as Jaques mistimed a pull straight back over the slips for a one-bounce four. Yet another Jaques edge to the vacant third man boundary brought up the 50 as Alex Hales was left in his wake but batting comfortably. However, he went for 16 in unfortunate circumstances as he edged Jimmy Anyon to Brown, who took what looked have been an excellent catch diving forwards at first slip. Hales waited before walking off when Brown claimed the catch, reacting to crowd heckling for standing his ground with a show of his displeasure. Photographic evidence from one angle indicated the ball had not carried with no suggestion Brown had cheated, but Hales seemed unlucky. Despite his struggles, Jaques made it to 50 off 60 balls as Notts raced to 75 for one. He had another escape on 52 though when Brown and Rory Hamilton-Brown combined to drop him again, this time Brown dived away to his left but he was unable to hold on at first slip again with Hamilton-Brown also in the frame. Jaques had played some fine shots in amongst his good fortune but his luck ran out on 67 when he edged Hobden behind to Matt Prior, who was looking to prove his fitness ahead of England Test squad selection - 105 for two. James Taylor came out and batted the five minutes before lunch with Michael Lumb, who had looked ill at ease at times to that point. Lumb came out with more fluency after the interval as the pair put on 59 for the third wicket. Their partnership could have ended on 14 though when Taylor, on eight, sprung up to cut Hobden towards third man. Chris Nash raced round and dived forwards for what would have been a spectacular catch, but he could not hold on as he thudded into the ground, dislodging the ball. Lumb is still yet to pass 40 this season as he went for 39, edging Luke Wright to Prior. Patel came in and had the look of a man in excellent form straight away. He moved effortlessly to 33 when he could have been out, although it would have been some catch from that man Brown, who flung himself away to his right at slip to get a hand on a full-blooded swipe. That was shortly after Taylor had gone for 29, the score on 209. He had gotten to the position where batting was looking comfortable but then went out of the blue. Taylor was squared up by Hobden, possibly surprised by the length, and the ball looped up to Anyon at point. Riki Wessels did not hang around as he went for 11 to a loose shot, mistiming a drive straight to Luke Wells, chest high off the bowling of Wright - 248 for five. Patel was still there and moving along almost unhindered, half chance aside. He had 50 when he clipped Wright off his pads for one to take Notts to 259 for five at tea. Patel resumed with Read alongside him showing his decent form of late. Patel did find himself almost out in carbon copy fashion to Taylor when he got squared up, but luckily for him there was no fielder there. That was a momentary blip in the brilliance though. There was a nervy moment shortly before he reached his hundred as, with Patel on 97, he almost inadvertently ran Read out as Magoffin deflected the ball inches wide of the stumps as the Notts skipper dived into his crease. Patel got his century from the very next ball though, lofting over mid-wicket to the boundary before raising his bat to delighted team-mates. That brought up 350 for Notts, who were having it all their way when Read moved to 50, punching the ball straight past extra cover for four. From there Notts charged on to complete a fine day's cricket for the visitors.

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Two elderly people taken to hospital following flat fire in Radford

June 1, 2014, 1:08 pm

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TWO elderly people were rushed to hospital following a flat fire in Radford. Fire crews from Stockhill and Highfield fire station had rescued them from a ground floor flat at Westhay Court on Sunday June 1. The fire was put put at 6pm and ambulance crews took the two people who had received oxygen therapy to the QMC.

Should Nottingham's world champion boxer Carl Froch have a statue built in his honour following his victory over George Groves?

June 1, 2014, 2:17 pm

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Tributes have been paid to Nottingham's Carl Froch following his dramatic victory at Wembley - with calls being made to build a statue in his honour. Carl Froch has been hailed a "super ambassador" after beating George Groves in their world title fight on Saturday May 31, with influential figures from the city and county heaping praise on the 36-year-old. Among them was Nottingham City Council leader Jon Collins, who said: "It is a fantastic result for Carl and once again he has proved his critics wrong. "People were saying in the run-up to the fight, can he do it, is he good enough, will the mind games (from George Groves) get to him? I never thought they would for a minute. He is a true professional and his win reflects well on the city; he is a super ambassador (for Nottingham)." Gedling MP Vernon Coaker, whose constituency includes Froch's home village Burton Joyce, said: "It is a fantastic achievement and everyone is very proud of him. What he has done is a credit to himself, his family and to Nottingham. It shows what can be achieved by somebody as dedicated as him. "I think he has said himself he always feels the support of local people and it is great to know how rock-solid that support is." Sherwood MP Mark Spencer echoed those thoughts and suggestions from some in the city that a statue of Froch would not be out of place. "I think it was amazing to be honest – it would have been awesome to have been at Wembley," said Mr Spencer. "I think he is genuinely a better boxer (than Groves) and he has confidence in his ability. It is fantastic that we have this world-class athlete that comes from Gedling, in Nottingham, and I think we should recognise that as a city. "I think it (a statue) is something that would be there forever, just to recognise that Froch is world-dominating." Max Kandhola, corr head of photography at Nottingham Trent University, included pictures of Froch in a boxing-themed display earlier this year. He sent Froch a good-luck text message before the fight. "It was a monumental performance," he said. "I felt he was relaxed and knew exactly what he wanted to do. People say there's a huge age difference (between Groves and Froch) but "At the age of 36 he has shown such an intellectual way of boxing. "Carl Froch has put Nottingham on the map. "I think it would be great (to have a statue of him). Why not? He is an absolute hero." Do you think Carl Froch should have a statue built in his honour? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more Carl Froch news, click here

Nottingham bus passengers claim they were left in the dark over 'Mango' price rises

June 2, 2014, 4:00 am

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FRUSTRATED bus passengers travelling from Bingham to Nottingham claim they were left in the dark over increases to their daily fares. Michael Norton, who catches the Trent Barton Rushcliffe Greens service every weekday, was horrified to discover his daily "Mango" fare had increased a month earlier without him realising. After contacting Trent Barton, he was told the changes had been posted on the company's website and social media sites. But Mr Norton says this did not give customers proper warning. The 32 year old, from Chilwell Gardens, Bingham, said: "I never go on the Trent Barton website. Why would I think to check it for price changes? "It was only when I looked at my Mango account a couple of weeks ago that I realised the daily fare had gone up from £2.40 to £2.50 each way. It had already gone up from £2.20 a few months ago. "I'd have thought they could have sent out a simple email to let people know. "If any of my utility companies changed prices in this way the industry regulators would step in straight away. "Trent Barton emails me about Mango Moments companies. Details of fare changes would be far more useful." The price change affected only a small number of Trent Barton routes, including Mango fares from Long Eaton, Radcliffe and Cotgrave. Mr Norton added: "The annoying thing is that they have posters on the buses to say they have frozen the fares for journeys in the city centre. It's like rubbing salt into your wounds." Claire Parr, 45, of Rufford Grove in Bingham, uses the same service three times a week and was also unaware of the changes. She said: "Even though they put it on their website, not a lot of people will have looked on the site.They should have made sure it was advertised in a way people were going to come into contact with it"What about all the people who use the buses who don't have internet access or aren't on social media? "They need to tell people about price rises in a much clearer way." Both Mr Norton and Ms Parr said they are also frustrated by late buses and overcrowding. Ms Parr, a marketing operations executive, is visually impaired and uses a disabled bus pass. But she cannot use it before 9.30am. She said: "There used to be a reduction with a bus pass before 9.30am but they scrapped that. "For disabled people who have no option but to get public transport it's very frustrating. "I have to pay the full price of £3.60 in the mornings, which is a lot for a journey that's just down the A52 into town." Mr Norton added: "It seems like we're having to pay more money for a lesser service." A Trent Barton spokesman said: "We advertise changes to fares on our website and on social media, which represent the majority of points where customers head to for information. We're sorry if the customer missed this. "We made some changes at the end of March to provide bigger buses, which has helped to deal with the growing number of customers using the Rushcliffe Greens. We are introducing another larger bus over the summer. If customers are ever dissatisfied they are welcome to ask for their money back, no quibble, on the spot, from any of our drivers."

£5 million "hotel-style" care home will bring at least 80 new jobs to Nottingham

June 2, 2014, 4:00 am

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Work is under way to build a £5 million "hotel-style" care home which will create at least 80 new jobs for Nottingham. Alder House Care Home, in Nottingham Road, Nuthall, will be opening its doors in October next to its sister site, Acer Court Care Home, immediately next door. It will provide 60 en-suite rooms to older people and those with dementia, with facilities including a cinema, hair salon and tea shop. Home manager for the new facility, Jayne McErlean, felt it was important that an emphasis was placed on living life at the care home and promoting independence. She said: "The residents will very much be included in the programme of activities which will run seven days a week - which is quite unusual for a care home. "We will be talking to them and decide together what it is they want to do and how they want to spend their time." The care home will have special provisions for residents with dementia and will be employing the same programme of support used by Acer Court next door. Acer Court manager Elizabeth Smith said: "We provide support for 33 people living with dementia but it's not just for the residents, we support their families too. "On the last Wednesday of each month we arrange for family members and friends of residents to meet at the home. "There is some form of agenda but it is just a chance for everyone to sit down and talk together - it helps them realise they aren't on their own." As well as the monthly meetings The Acer Butterflies go on trips together along with the residents and have recently visited Skegness. Ms Smith said: "Having a partner or parent with dementia is almost like a bereavement but at the same time you still have that person who is relying on you. It is a difficult and sometimes isolating time and the group helps people to talk about it. "We are hoping to roll it out into the wider community shortly." She added: "But the main thing is to enjoy the special moments, if somebody thinks they are in Timbuktu - then join them there." The home also has a specialist dementia nurse, Linda Jay, who helped put together the Connect Manual, which sets out guidelines on dementia support. She said: "There is nothing to say people can't live well with dementia, they can. "We want residents to retain the skills they have, we don't want to de-skill them by doing all personal care even down to putting butter and marmalade on their toast. Obviously if a resident needs help we will help them but residents should be empowered through independence." The new care home is being built by Avery Healthcare, Managing Director, John Strowbridge said: "There has been much 'down talking' surrounding the state of the care industry of late but we must remember that there continues to be many extremely committed people delivering fantastic care – Avery's homes are an excellent example of this." What do you think of the Nottingham's care homes? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.comFor more health news, click here

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June 2, 2014, 4:05 am

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A judge has begun summing up in the trial of three men accused of murder. Callum Dickinson, 24, of Villa Street, Beeston; Karl Anthony Raynor, 32, of Waterloo Road, Beeston; and Christopher Michael Royston, 23, of Whitelands, Cotgrave, have all pleaded not guilty to the killing of Simon John Hay, 47. Mr Hay was found lying face up in a neighbour's flat in Villa Street last October, the trial at Nottingham Crown Court has heard. He died of a head injury and breathing in blood after multiple kicks and stamps to his face and body. Judge Gregory Dickinson QC will sum up before asking the jury to retire later.

Nottingham Panthers to start Champions Hockey League campaign at home to Lukko Rauma

June 2, 2014, 4:28 am

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NOTTINGHAM Panthers will start their Champions Hockey League campaign at home to Lukko Rauma. The fixtures were released today with the Finns coming to the National Ice on Friday August 22. Two nights later Swedish side Lulea are the visitors. Panthers then go to Lukko on Friday September 5 before they travel to Sweden two days after that. Corey Neilson's side complete the group stage of the new competition with games against favourites Hamburg Freezers, at home on Tuesday September 23 and in Germany on Tuesday October 7. Panthers fixtures: Lukko Rauma (home, Aug 22), Lulea (home, Aug 24), Lukko (away, Sept 5), Lulea (away, Sept 7), Hamburg (home, Sept 22), Hamburg (away, October 7)

Did he or didn't he? Carl Froch on that Wembley 'proposal'

June 2, 2014, 4:45 am

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THE rumour mill has been going into overdrive as to whether Nottingham's Carl Froch really did propose to long-time girlfriend Rachael Cordingley on Saturday night. The Cobra got down on one knee in the ring at Wembley immediately after his eighth-round knock-out of George Groves, which saw him retain his IBF and WBA World super-middleweight titles. He then landed a huge kiss on Cordingley, with whom Froch has two young children Rocco and Natalia, before posing for pictures with his partner – who was wearing a bright red top and skirt and was sat at ringside throughout the historic fight – which was played out in front of a post war record crowd of 80,000 people. Froch was asked about the 'proposal' later that night by the media but said he didn't propose because he couldn't sort a ring out and went onto add that he "will marry her one day". "I told her how much I love her," he said post-fight. "I didn't actually officially propose to her. I was going to but I couldn't sort a ring out." But this hasn't stopped the national media from stating the pair had got 'unofficially' engaged but Froch has since added fresh impetus to the story by stating he has entered into an "interim" engagement with Cordingley.

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Guedioura and Djebbour miss out on Algerian World Cup spot

June 2, 2014, 4:51 am

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FORMER Nottingham Forest midfielder Adlene Guedioura was today the last man to be dropped from Algeria's World Cup squad – while current Reds striker Rafik Djebbour has already been excluded. Palace midfielder Guedioura was the final player to be cut from the Algeria squad that will travel to Brazil. Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic sent Guedioura home from the training camp today. Algeria had been concerned about a thigh injury carried by Hassen Yebda, but the 30-year-old Udinese defender recovered to take his place. Djebbour, who has struggled to make an impact at the City Ground after signing for Forest in January, has perhaps paid the price for his lack of football after himself failing to make the cut. The North Africans are pitted against Belgium, Russia and South Korea in Group H. Algeria squad: Goalkeepers: Mohamed Zemmamouche (USM Alger), Rais Mbolhi (CSKA Sofia, Bulgaria), Cedric Si Mohamed (CS Constantine). Defenders : Carl Medjani (Valenciennes), Aissa Mandi (Reims), Madjid Bougherra (Lekhwiya), Faouzi Ghoulam (Naples), Rafik Halliche (Academica Coimbra), Essaid Belkalem (Watford), Liassine Cadamuro (Majorque), Djamel Mesbah (Livourne), Mehdi Mostefa (AC Ajaccio). Midfielders : Sofiane Feghouli (Valence), Saphir Taider (Inter Milan), Medhi Lacen (Getafe), Abdelmoumen Djabou (Club Africain), Yacine Brahimi (Grenade), Hassan Yebda (Udinese), Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester). Forwards: Islam Slimani (Sporting Portugal), Hilal Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb), Nabil Ghilas (FC Porto).

Police hunt thieves in Eastwood who took safes containing cash

June 2, 2014, 5:09 am

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Thieves may have dumped two electronic safes after a burglary in Eastwood. Police want to speak to anyone in the area who may have spotted them after a burglary in South Street at 3am on Sunday, June 1. Two men went into the house and stole two electronic safes containing cash. The items are off-white in colour and measure 12 inches by ten inches by 6 inches and have an electronic keypad lock. One of the residents disturbed the thieves and they made off at the back of the house. The suspects have been described as white, one about 5ft 9 inches tall and the other about 5ft 11 inches tall. Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. Did you see anything? Have you seen abandoned safes or do you know something about the break-in? Quote the Incident Number, 000207-01062014, when you call police on 101 with information.

Man in court for robberies in Nottingham

June 2, 2014, 5:23 am

≫ Next: Single mum Lottery millionaire Kerry Poxon: 'I'm not going to do anything rash'

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A Carlton man has been charged following street robberies in the city. Mohamed Barry, 31, of no fixed address, was due to appear before Nottingham magistrates on Monday, June 2, charged with three robbery offences and two counts of making off without payment. The robberies relate to alleged incidents in University Park, at the University of Nottingham in Lenton, on Sunday, May 25, and in Dunkirk, in Highfield Road, on Tuesday, May 27, and Greenfield Street, on Thursday, May 29. Phones and a handbag, containing a wallet and keys, were apparently stolen. Barry is also accused of making off without paying for fuel from garages in Carlton Road, Sneinton, on Wednesday, April 2, and Priory Island, Beeston, on Thursday, May 22.

Single mum Lottery millionaire Kerry Poxon: 'I'm not going to do anything rash'

June 2, 2014, 6:13 am

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Kerry Poxon won almost £1.2 million days before her birthday - but celebrated oblivious of her fortune. The winning ticket sat pinned to her fridge for two weeks before she realised her numbers had come up. But the humble mum-of-two said she wouldn't do "anything rash" with the jackpot. Ms Poxon is a single mum, working as a pharmacy dispenser in Eastwood to support her two boys, eight and ten. She started playing the lottery 18 months ago and used the same numbers most weeks, combining figures from both her and her son's birthdays. She said: "I only play when I remember. In fact the week before and the week after I forgot to buy a ticket so it was lucky I remembered the one in the middle!" Ms Poxon bought the ticket on Saturday May 10 at the Sainsbury's Local on Nottingham Road in Eastwood. She left it under a magnet on her fridge, carrying on with her busy daily life, including celebrating her birthday on May 16. She didn't have a chance to check her ticket until after her birthday had passed and she had some time at home with her boys. Ms Poxon said: "I checked the numbers on my phone and I didn't believe it when my numbers came up. So I checked them on another device but was still convinced something was wrong with my internet. "So I called my dad to get him to check and he told to me sit down." Her father still hasn't managed to finish painting the gate he was working on when his daughter called after such a big surprise. But despite the shock, Ms Poxon said she remained "cool and calm" and told very few people until yesterday. And even now it has begun to sink in, the Eastwood mum is still keeping a level head about what to spend the cash on. She said: "The first priority is to buy a house. Not a massive mansion or anything too extravagant though. "Then I know I can secure my boys' future." Ms Poxon also plans to go back to studying and wants to train to become a midwife or a health care worker. She said: "I was going to do it last year but the finances just weren't there. Now I can go back, do it for me and not have to worry about the bills." But she still hasn't decided whether to leave her day job and wants to take each day at a time. Ms Poxon said: "I was gobsmacked and am now trying to get back to normal. "At the moment I am just getting on with my life and trying to process what has happened, but there will not be anything too extravagant." Her winning numbers were 3, 5, 8, 10, 16 and 17.

Notts County set new 'Bench' mark for season ticket sales

June 2, 2014, 6:28 am

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NOTTS County have more than doubled their season ticket sales compared to this time last year thanks to their 'The Bench' initiative. 'The Bench' campaign was launched by the club's marketing manager Damian Irvine last March and is designed to treat supporters like new signings. Among many of the benefits are club interviews with those fans who sign up which are then published on the club's website. A free programme for every home game and ten per cent off the new home shirt on the weekend of launch are also part of the scheme. And, slashing prices to their lowest rate since 2010, has had the fans flocking to be a key part of the Magpies. Chief executive Jim Rodwell said: "We were very happy with the package that the commercial team, ticket office and media department put together for our season tickets for 2014-15. "We loved the whole ethos of 'The Bench' and how it promoted greater engagement between the club and our fans. "You never know how well something will do until you put it on sale though, so to have seen so many supporters book their seat on 'The Bench' already is fantastic and hopefully shows that we've got the pricing and package right for next season. "However, we know that there is still plenty of hard work ahead of us this summer, to get as many supporters as we can signed up to 'The Bench' and of course to build a squad capable of performing to the high levels that we expect here at Notts County. "I would like to thank every supporter that has already signed up to 'The Bench' for next season and can assure all of our fans that plenty of work is going on behind the scenes to secure new signings and as soon as anything is confirmed, we will let you know." For those that have already booked their place on 'The Bench' for next season, their season cards will be available to collect from Wednesday, June 4, at 9am, or if they have asked for them to be posted out, they will be going out in the mail after this date, along with their 'The Bench' certificate. With the deadline having now passed for the reduced ticket prices, the cost of a season ticket for the 2014-15 has now returned to the rates that they were ahead of the 2013-14 season.