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Nottingham Milk Race: Injured cyclist reunited with first aiders

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A CYCLIST who was injured in a crash during the Milk Race in Nottingham has been reunited with the volunteer first-aiders who came to his rescue. Joe Giggins was injured shortly after the elite men's race started in the city on May 25. He hit a barrier at the side of the course and fell head first, causing other cyclists behind to ride into him. Joe suffered facial injuries including damage to his teeth and ear. St John Ambulance operational cyclists Josh Tolson and Ross Dykes were providing first-aid cover as part of the charity's medical team and were close to where the accident happened. They went to Joe's aid, along with an off-duty doctor and East Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic Samantha Westwell, who had been watching nearby. Joe, 23, of Richardsons-Trek RT team, was taken to hospital but is now recovering well. Speaking at the meeting with Josh, Ross and Samantha, on Sunday June 8, Joe, who lives in London and works as a personal trainer, said: "I remember the start of the race but after that I can't remember much about what happened. "The crash was only on the first lap. "I remember waking up as if from a deep dream with somebody holding my head, and then on a spinal board in the ambulance. But I know that if it wasn't for those cycle responders on the course, I may have been a lot worse. I am very grateful to them and everyone that helped me. " Ross said: "Our cycle response team was on the scene within seconds. Joe was unconscious when we first got to him and he was quite dazed afterwards. It's great to be able to see Joe making a good recovery and hope he will be back on his bike before long. " Regional events and logistics manager for St John Ambulance Joe Shaw said: "The quick response of our volunteers enabled Joe to receive medical attention very quickly. " Joe's injury resulted in a restart and a lengthy delay, with the race reduced by ten minutes, to 50 minutes plus five laps. St John Ambulance provides first-aid cover to many major events in the city including the Robin Hood Marathon, Goose Fair and events at the Capital FM Arena, as well as the No Tomorrow and Splendour music festivals. The charity's operational cyclists respond to any situations requiring first aid. To make a donation to the service or to join as a volunteer call 08700 104950 or visit www.sja.org.uk. Have you been helped by paramedics? Email peter.blackburn@nottinghampost.com

Nottingham Milk Race: Injured cyclist reunited with first aiders


Sneinton on lockdown as police tell residents to stay inside

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Police have told people in Sneinton to stay indoors, during an ongoing incident. Nina Smith, who lives on Longden Street said there were seven ambulances, one fire engine and five police cars including a riot van on Handel Street. A National Grid van is also reportedly at the scene. Ms Smith said: "If I come out of my apartment I have been I cannot go back into it. "The police are just telling people to stay inside and keep away from the area. "It is a little bit shocking. "But until I know what is going on I do not know what to make of it." The incident has reportedly been ongoing since 7am.More to follow

Sneinton on lockdown as police tell residents to stay inside

£11.9m for crime-fight team to give Nottingham a better future

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COUNCILLORS have approved an £11.9 million cash injection to help fight crime and anti-social behaviour in Nottingham. The Crime and Drugs Partnership will receive the money from Public Health, the Police and Crime Commissioner and other smaller partners – including Nottingham City Homes and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service – to carry out its "partnership plan", agreed in February. Targets include cutting all crime across the city by six per cent, reducing all anti-social behaviour calls to the police by 50 per cent and increasing the number of people completing drugs treatment by five per cent by March 2015. Speaking at a council meeting where the funding was unanimously agreed, Peter Moyes, director of the Crime and Drugs Partnership, said: "At this time we need to offer the same level of service to the city – but cheaper. "This plan sets out our activity and the work we plan to take out this year, as well as the money to make it real." The money from Public Health – £9.2 million – will be focused on drug and alcohol treatment, including more than £1.2 million on the Drug Intervention Programme and £300,000 on young people's services. A further £1.7 million from the Police and Crime Commissioner will be targeted on drug treatment within the justice system, domestic violence cases, gang and youth violence and community safety. The final £900,000 will be project-specific depending on the partners involved, such as analytical problems within an organisation.Paddy Tipping, Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, said the plan was important for ensuring a better future for the city. He said: "They key is it is a partnership. By having a plan and all these different organisations funding it together, we think we can make a difference. "We will be working with five city wards in Nottingham that are responsible for 25% of crime in the city, so we are bedding down in problem wards, but again, working together to tackle the issues. "This is not the preserve of one service. It is for all of us, the city council, police, NHS and probation, to get together on and we all think that is the way to do it." Nick Tegerdine, spokesman for the Addictions Problems Advisory Service, said this was a good step forward but more needed to be done. He said: "I think the idea of intervening early with people with alcohol or drug problems is good. "Historically illicit drug use has been associated with crime, which is a fair point, but for many a long year there has been denial of alcohol-fuelled crimes being recorded. "Tackling this early is good, but you must get to the route of the problem too, addressing the outlets that sell strong alcohol cheaper than water or serve people who are clearly intoxicated." Do you agree with the spending areas? Let us know at opinions@nottinghampost.com.

£11.9m for crime-fight team to give Nottingham a better future

Transfer gossip: Bournemouth make fresh bid for rumoured Nottingham Forest target Callum Wilson

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CALLUM Wilson, the Coventry striker who is reportedly one of the names on Nottingham Forest's list of transfer targets, has been the subject of a fresh bid from Championship rivals Bournemouth.

The 22-year-old fired 22 goals for the League One side last season, to put himself on the radar of several Championship clubs, also thought to include Wolves.

Bournemouth appear to be leading the running for the player, having already had one offer rejected for the mobile front man.

The Cherries are looking to replace Lewis Grabban, who moved to newly relegated Norwich City for a fee of around £3m last week.

The Sky Blues have confirmed that there is interest in Wilson from several second-tier sides.

And it is understood that Eddie Howe's Bournemouth have returned with a fresh seven-figure offer.

City's development director Steve Waggott continues to maintain that the player is not for sale, however.

"At the moment our view is that Callum isn't for sale," he said. "We have had approaches from other Championship clubs who are keen to secure the services of one of the best young strikers around in League One at the moment.

"But as it stands we have rebuffed and rejected all offers that have come in."

Transfer gossip: Bournemouth make fresh bid for rumoured Nottingham Forest target Callum Wilson

Notts skipper Chris Read handed ECB penalty

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CHRIS Read has received a penalty under the ECB's discipline code following an incident in Nottinghamshire's away match at Headingley against Yorkshire in the County Championship. Skipper Read was reported by umpires Martin Saggers and Alex Wharf during the Division One clash for a Level 1 breach of the code – showing dissent at an umpire's decision by word or action. This followed on from Read's dismissal when run out in controversial circumstances. He was going for a run when he was obstructed by Steve Patterson – the bowler under no obligation to move. Jack Leaning managed a direct hit as Read dived in and after a moment of consideration the umpire said he was short of his ground. The Notts skipper was clearly aggrieved by the decision and he has now been handed a reprimand for his reaction. The penalty will remain on his record for a period of two years and the accumulation of nine or more penalty points in any two year period will result in an automatic suspension.

Notts skipper Chris Read handed ECB penalty

Police appeal after armed robbery at Ladbrokes store

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A BOOKMAKERS in Long Eaton was the victim of an armed robbery on Wednesday night.

Police are now investigating after three men entered a Ladbrokes on Derby Road with what is believed to be a handgun and demanded money. 

The men stole cash and may have left the scene in a red car which was possibly a VW Golf. 

No shots were fired and no-one was injured during the incident which took place at just after 8.10pm. 

Officers from Derbyshire Police are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time to contact them on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police appeal after armed robbery at Ladbrokes store

World Cup 2014: Clifton football fans cover home in £150 worth of England flags, bunting and decorations ahead of opening match

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With excitement mounting over England's opening game against Italy on Saturday June 14 - one footy fan has gone the extra mile in flying the flag for his home team. Life-long Forest fan Melvyn Weldon, 60, has spent more than £150 on decorating his Clifton bungalow, in Chisbury Green, with England flags, bunting and decorations. The mammoth task which he undertook last weekend took three whole days with help from his son-in-law Ray Burton, 34, of Gedling, and his wife of 26 years, June. The former manager of the Newcastle Arms pub, in Nuthall Road, decided to go all-out in support for his beloved England team and has hung more than 20 giant flags on the outside of his home. He said: "This is my way of showing my support and we have lots of people stopping us in the street to say how great it looks. "It's the first thing you can see at the top of the hill and I think it looks awesome. "Regardless of how well England do we will be keeping the flags up until the end of the tournament and then I will carefully fold them away in a drawer until next time." Mr Weldon first got hooked on the beautiful game 54-years-ago when his dad took him to his inaugural Forest game. "I still remember it so well - we played Blackburn and got beaten five - one, and from that I never looked back," he said. "I have followed Forest and England everywhere they have played and went to 1998 World Cup in France." Mr Weldon, who suffered a heart attack last month and was rushed to the QMC for overnight observation, said that he thinks it will be a close game on Saturday but England will emerge victorious with a two - one lead. His wife, June, 76, is usually unfussed about football but confessed that she can't help but get behind England for the big competitions. She said: "We've been up ladders and hanging out windows to get the house ready. "We have gone all-out and I think everyone else should too. "We will be watching the match on Saturday and I will be putting on a spread for the occasion." The match between England and Italy will kick-off at 11pm from Manaus. Owner of nearby chip shop, Clifton Fish Bar, in Farnborough Road, Mel Michaelides, 45, said he couldn't wait to have a look at the display. He said: "Melvyn is a regular here and I know him pretty well - I think it's great they've decorated the house and if he has any flags left over I'd be more than happy to hang them up here." Tomorrow's match, the highly anticipated clash between Netherlands and Spain, will be kicking-off at 8pm. How are you showing your support for England during the World Cup? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.com 

World Cup 2014: Clifton football fans cover home in £150 worth of England flags, bunting and decorations ahead of opening match

City centre trail to celebrate our great writers

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Nottingham's great literary heritage is to be celebrated with a new trail through the city centre. Visitors to the city will be able to take in some of the places which were popular with writers such as Lord Byron, DH Lawrence and Alan Sillitoe. The first part of the 'Our Rebel Writers' trail – a banner in Station Street – has already gone up. It is to be followed by up to a dozen plaques on paving stones and various locations. These will have quotes and information on the writers. The Station Street banner has a quote from each of the famous three. Lord Byron's quote is: "I deny nothing, but doubt everything. Opinions are made to be changed ... how else is the truth to be got at?" A mobile app will be developed to help people follow the trail, which is the brainchild of Mark Shotter. "We don't feel that enough is made in Nottingham of the fantastic heritage we have when it comes to literature," said Mr Shotter, a member of the Alan Sillitoe Committee. "The banner is causing interest. Over the next few days we will be getting more information on this, which will be placed at eye level. Then over the next few months the plaques and paving stones will be installed. They will have quotes on them from our great writers." The next location is set to be the Old Angel pub in Hockley. An image of Alan Sillitoe will be painted on the outside wall, along with one of his well-known quotes. Talks are going on over the location of the others, with permission likely to be needed from building owners and Nottingham City Council. It is likely the route would take visitors from Station Street towards the castle and then Hockley and the Lace Market. The move comes at a time when a bid is being prepared to make Nottingham a Unesco City of Literature. The bid will be sent in early next year. Nottingham would join only seven other cities in the world in having the title if it is given, with a decision likely by November 2015. The title would see huge amounts of writing projects set up in the hope of talented authors being unearthed here. The bid team believes it would drive more tourism – and Mr Shotter feels the 'Our Rebel Writers' trail would be an ideal starting point. He said: "The City of Literature title would befit Nottingham and this trail would form part of it." The plan has received support, including from Alan Sillitoe's son David. "We are trying to put together something which will give people a way of going around the city and picking up on the work of different writers," said Mr Sillitoe. "This city has a wonderful tradition and I don't believe we make enough of it. Ideas such as this fit perfectly." Rob Howie Smith, whose projects involve the Five Leaves bookshop in the city, is also backing the move. He said: "There is not a lot you can do for nothing in Nottingham. This is a very good idea which I believe would be a real success. We are still going through the planning stage but in a few months people will be able to come to Nottingham and do the trail." How do you think Nottingham should celebrate its literary past? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.

City centre trail to celebrate our great writers


Thousands to flock to Arnold Carnival

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ORGANISERS are gearing up for the return of a popular festival which attracts thousands of visitors. Arnold's much-loved carnival returns to Arnot Hill Park this weekend, offering a jam-packed itinerary of activities and entertainment. The free event will be on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June and includes a headline performance from the Illinois Blues Brothers and the Shotgun Band. There will be music, dance, drama, children's funfair, craft marquees and much more including schools, bands and solo artists. Tania Griffin, a teaching assistant at Killisick Junior School who organises dance groups, said: "We've got four dances for about 30 children taking part. One of the children has choreographed it – it's fabulous, they have worked so hard. "We do mainly pop music and we have a bit of a mash-up for our finale – it's very modern. They're so excited. It's the first time we have danced there. but we have sang there before. It's an amazing event – there are so many opportunities with the schools taking part. It's great." Also featured will be a children's marquee, chill-out zone, BMX tasters and sports have-a-go sessions. The carnival, which attracts thousands of visitors, kicks off at midday on Saturday with Gedling Rock School and their 'live and loud' show. The day ends with a performance from carnival favourites, the Establishment, who will be singing classic British sing-along anthems. Neil Jacks, bassist for the band who will be performing covers and their own material, said: "We are closing the show – we did it a couple of years ago and it chucked it down, so hopefully it will be a bit nicer this time. It's a very good event and fantastic for the local community – it's something everybody looks forward to." On Sunday, the Fun Dog Show takes centre stage with pampered pooches vying for the coveted first prize in categories that include Waggiest Tail or Most Appealing Eyes. Gedling borough councillor Kathryn Fox, portfolio holder for community development, said: "The Arnold Carnival is a highlight in the calendar for the borough and this year will be no exception. This is an event for the local community and we hope that they can come along and enjoy a weekend full of entertainment for all ages."

Police negotiating with man in Sneinton warehouse

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Sneinton residents have been told to stay indoors, as police negotiate with a man who is refusing to leave a warehouse. The incident, in Handel Street, began at 6am on Thursday. Resident Nina Smith, who lives on nearby Longden Street, said there were six ambulances, two fire engines and five police cars, including several riot vans, on Handel Street. Aberdeen Street is also taped off. Malc Stokes, the landlord of The Vine on Handel Street, said he was woken this morning by reports of the road closure. He said: "I came downstairs and at 9.30am and I had a phone call from one of my staff who said the street had all been blocked off. "The vehicles have been back and forth ever since. "But I do not really know anything apart from that." A resident who chose not to be named, from Sneinton, said: "At about 9am there were a couple of police cars trying to get into the building [the warehouse on Handel Street]. "They are not saying anything, keeping it tied up." Another woman, who also did not want to be named, said: "It was a bit of a nightmare earlier. "There was quite a lot of activity and there were some police riot vans." A Notts Police spokesperson said: "Officers are concerned for the welfare of a man who is inside a warehouse building and is refusing to come out. "The area is taped off while police negotiators speak with the man. "Police were called to the premises at about 6am today." East Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were called out at 9.52am. A spokesperson said: "We have a range of vehicles on the scene, including our hazardous area response team and we are working with the police so that we are ready to deal with any outcome." As of 3pm, Bath Street was closed from Handel Street to the junction of Carlton Road, and police cars were blocking off both ends of Bath Street. Police tape was stretched across the road from Victoria Leisure Centre to the other side of the road. Naked Truth Nails and Beauty salon owner Atalia Johnson said she had been there since 10am. She said: "There was a fire engine and a couple of PCSOs cordoned off the road, it did not seem like much then. "I was saying to them, this is my business, I would like to know what is going on. "They said they were evacuating the area. "As the day has gone on, more police and ambulances have come in, it is causing a bit of a commotion. "It has caused some disruption, obviously, the roads are closed off so it doesn't help." Students on Fox Rose Courtyard Ryan McQueen, 21, and his girlfriend Ashley Williamson were returning home following Ryan finishing his exams to find Longden Street cordoned off. He said: "We have just been away for a couple of days. "We are at uni and have just finished term - we went home and came back to this. "I do not really know anything, we are just a bit annoyed at what has happened."

Police negotiating with man in Sneinton warehouse

Mansfield Town complete signing of former Grimsby Town striker Liam Hearn

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MANSFIELD Town have completed the signing of striker Liam Hearn, following confirmation of his registration from the Football League.

 The 28-year-old joins the Stags on a free transfer, having left Grimsby Town in March. 

His time with the Mariners was hindered by spells spent out of action, and his last appearance came in November, when he suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury. 

Subsequently, he has spent the last few months receiving treatment at the One Call Stadium, having previously worked with Mansfield boss Paul Cox at Eastwood Town. 

"I've known the gaffer [Paul Cox] for a long time and I had my heart set on coming here last summer, but it didn't materialise and then this season I thought it would never happen due to my [cruciate] injury," Hearn said. 

"My immediate targets are to have an injury-free season and score some goals. The fans can be a real force here, and I'm hoping we can have some good times." 

Born in Bulwell, Hearn started out at Hucknall Town, top scoring for the Yellows as they won the Northern Premier League in 2003/04. 

He has also had spells at Quorn, Chasetown and Alfreton Town, where he netted 45 goals in 76 appearances over three years. 

The front man sealed a £30,000 move to Grimsby in 2011, turning out for them on 72 occasions and finding the net 34 times – a strike ratio which saw him attract the interests of Peterborough not so long ago. 

Hearn will now link up with his new team-mates for pre-season training, which begins on Monday, June 30.

Mansfield Town complete signing of former Grimsby Town striker Liam Hearn

Bodies in garden trial: Christopher Edwards gives evidence

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Christopher Edwards can still remember carrying the bodies of his wife's parents to their makeshift grave in their garden. 

Despite their deaths being 15 years ago,  he told his trial on June 12 how he had started early one Saturday digging a hole for William and Patricia Wycherley. 

His first attempted was thwarted when he hit a cable but his second was more successful. 

Mr Edwards, 57, carried Mrs Wycherley down the stairs first because she was bigger and heavier. 

"Mr Wycherley was much, much lighter," he told his trial.

 "He was a scrawny-built person." 

Mr Edwards' impression had been that Mr Wycherley was stiff. 

But he was not an expert on rigor mortis, the court heard, and at the time he had not seen any part of Mr Wycherley's duvet-wrapped body.

His wife, who hid the bodies at the Wycherley's Forest Town home for a week, had claimed she could smell the bodies on her return with her husband. 

However, Mr Edwards told the jury: "The only smell I was aware of was a very strong smell of stale tobacco."

Pathologist Stuart Hamilton had told the court this week that if someone was dead for seven days the smell would have been "pungent, foul and evading".

Mr Edwards said he found out about the Wycherleys that day.

 His wife revealed what had happened as they sat down to eat fish and chips. 

She claimed she had found her 60-year-old mother with a revolver and her 85-year-old father on the floor at the house when she visited the week before.

 Mr Edwards told the jury his wife "flipped" when her mother said she preferred him to her daughter and they had slept together. 

Mrs Edwards has admitted the manslaughter of her mother by provocation but denies murder. 

Dafydd Enoch QC, defending, asked Mr Edwards at what point did he go and check the bodies were where his wife said they were.

 "She took me to the bedroom," he told the jury. 

"The door was closed. The bed was down. I saw these shrouded shapes. I turned out the light and closed the door." 

Mrs Edwards wanted to go to police but his wife was "very distressed" and asked him not too. 

"She suggested we could hide them," he said. 

"The first decision that was suggested was perhaps we could hide them in the loft." 

Eventually, he said the most "feasible" place was to bury them in the garden as they did not have a car. 

"Did you dig the hole?" asked Mr Enoch. Mr Edwards, 55, told him: "Yes, I did in the course of the Saturday, starting early." 

 The grave was covered with plants and they spent the next 15 years tricking family members, neighbours, doctors and financial institutions into believing the Wycherleys were still alive. 

Meanwhile they 'cleaned out' the Wycherleys' bank accounts and continued to steal their pension and benefit payments, claim prosecutors. 

The bloodstained carpet was cut up and pieces taken home and dumped in bins, the court has heard. 

When theEdwards realised the net was closing in, the pair, who were in France, relayed a 'carefully hatched and rehearsed story' on their return to the UK, it has been claimed. 

The jury were told yesterday the Edwards, of no fixed address, have admitted a charge of obstructing a coroner in the execution of his duty and theft of money from a Halifax bank account. 

The trial continues


For all the latest news on the Wycherley trial, click here

Bodies in garden trial: Christopher Edwards gives evidence

Commonwealth Games 2014: Nottingham squash player Alan Clyne makes Team Scotland squad

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NOTTINGHAM squash player Alan Clyne will compete in this summer's Commonwealth Games after Team Scotland announced their final squad for Glasgow. 

The Scot, who was born in Inverness but plays for Air-IT Nottingham in the Premier Squash League, has been included in a 310-strong squad for next month's home Games. 

Clyne will compete in the men's singles, men's doubles and mixed doubles. 

This will be his second Commonwealth Games, having taken part in Delhi four years ago. 

He partnered Harry Leitch in the men's doubles, and they just missed out on a medal, finishing fourth, as well as finishing joint-ninth in the mixed doubles. 

That experience has left Clyne eager to make the podium this time around. 

"My ultimate ambition in a Commonwealth Games is to medal and I want the medal to be gold", he said previously. "Last time we came fourth, just missing out on a medal but I reckon we have improved since then and we will hopefully get into the medals and try and make it as high as possible."

Commonwealth Games 2014: Nottingham squash player Alan Clyne makes Team Scotland squad

Danny Parekh murder: Teen escapes jail over his involvement

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Teenager Liam Gleeson was today spared jail over his involvement in the killing of young dad Danny Parekh. Gleeson, 17, has been banned from Nottingham for three months, ordered to do 150 hours of unpaid work and given a two-year youth rehabilitation order. Judge Michael Stokes QC told him that only "truly exceptional circumstances" had saved him from being locked up. Gleeson, of Mayfair Avenue, Mansfield, was cleared of murdering Mr Parekh, instead being convicted of the lesser charge of encouraging or assisting the commission of grievous bodily harm. Gleeson's cousin Joshua Davey is serving a life sentence after he was convicted of murdering Mr Parekh. Nottingham Crown Court heard that Gleeson had worked hard to get his life back on track, including going back into education and doing work with the youth offending team. Sentencing him, Judge Stokes told him he would normally have jailed him for two years. He said: "Over the last 20 months there has been a considerable change in your behaviour and attitude. "If you went to jail it would undo much of what has been achieved through the youth offending team." The court heard that Gleeson had been attacked by Mr Parekh with a metal bar on July 8, 2012. Gleeson responded by going home and telling his cousin Davey. The pair went out looking for Mr Parekh but failed to find him and went home again. After making phone calls they found out where Mr Parekh was and went out again. Davey, of Deptford Crescent, Bulwell, stabbed Mr Parekh 16 times at a playground off Oakleigh Street, in Old Basford. Gleeson was acquitted of murder on the basis he did not know that Davey had a knife with him. Judge Stokes added: "You set off with him (Davey) effectively to assault Danny Parekh in such a way that he would receive a really serious injury. "You were an immature 15-year-old behaving inappropriately towards your mother and towards others." Davey, 21, was convicted at Leicester Crown Court in April and told he would serve at least 21 years before he could even apply for parole. In mitigation for Gleeson, his barrister John Aspinall QC admitted that his client had played an "active part" in finding Mr Parekh. But he added: "Davey took control of the circumstances. This was not Mr Gleeson inciting Davey, but circumstances in which Davey lost his temper, armed himself with a knife - unbeknown to my client - and took control of events thereafter." He added that Gleeson had endured a difficult time leading up to the incident, having moved from Wales to live with his mum in Nottingham after his dad became homeless. Tim Spencer QC, prosecuting, said the jury's verdict "must mean that they were not sure that this defendant, Liam Gleeson, knew of the possession of the knife". Mr Spencer told the court that Gleeson had three other matters on his record, all of which predated the death of Mr Parekh. On one occasion he was convicted of battery after throwing a roof tile at a boy. On another occasion he robbed a boy of his bike, telling him he was going to punch him in the nose and get 150 people to "step on him".

Danny Parekh murder: Teen escapes jail over his involvement

Sneinton siege ends as man gives himself up

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Police negotiations with a man in Sneinton who refused to leave a warehouse have come to a close after he chose to leave the building. 

The incident, in Handel Street, began at 6am on Thursday and lasted almost 12 hours before the man gave himself up. 

Police said a 35 year old man was arrested but were unable to give any additional detail at the time of publication. 

Resident Nina Smith, who lives on nearby Longden Street, said there were six ambulances, two fire engines and five police cars, including several riot vans, on Handel Street during the day and neighbouring Aberdeen Street was also taped off.

Naked Truth Nails and Beauty salon owner Atalia Johnson said she had been there since 10am. 

She said: "There was a fire engine and a couple of PCSOs cordoned off the road, it did not seem like much then. 

"I was saying to them, this is my business, I would like to know what is going on. Then they said they were evacuating the area. 

"As the day has gone on, more police and ambulances have come in, it is causing a bit of a commotion. It has caused some disruption, obviously, the roads are closed off so it doesn't help." 

Roads are now re-opened in the area. 

Sneinton siege ends as man gives himself up


World's biggest plane - the Antonov 225 - lands at East Midlands Airport

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EXCITEMENT reached new heights by East Midlands Airport as the world's biggest plane touched down. 

The Antonov-225 has six engines, the wingspan the size of a football pitch and can weigh up to 600 tonnes when full. 

And crowds flocked to the Aeropark museum just outside the airport perimeter and fought for the best spot to catch a rare glimpse of the massive plane as it touched down.

The pilot kept the hundreds of aircraft enthusiasts waiting – it was expected to arrive from Riga, Latvia at around 6pm. 

Many of the crowds tracked the progress of the flight on mobile phone applications as it flew over the Netherlands and into UK airspace. 

"It's there, over the air control tower, at your two o'clock," a child shouted, and suddenly the gaze of hundreds turned to the skies as the landing was imminent.

It touched down at just after 7.40pm with cameras clicking to capture the sight. 

Among them was Chris Langdale, 55, who dashed from his West Bridgford home along the A453 to see the plane. 

The IT worker said: "I've seen it once before in real life, but my camera ran out of battery just at the wrong time so I didn't manage to get any photos. 

"It's an amazing sight, a beautiful piece of engineering and just a really nice thing to come out and see on an evening like this." 

His son, Samuel, 12, added: "I had obviously heard the plane was big, but I didn't expect it to be that huge.

"We've been here a long time waiting and seen the passenger planes come and go but this was just huge in comparison." 

The Antonov-225's stay in the East Midlands will only be short as it is set to jet off again at 10amon Friday.

The crowds were mainly standing on the hills of the Aeropark museum, which has a number of historic aircraft including a Vulcan and a Nimrod. 

Stephen Johnson, membership secretary of the Aeropark, said he was delighted to see the Antonov cause so much interest. 

He added: "It's a spectacle and people love a spectacle really. 

"It's a beautiful sunny evening and it's great to see people come out to see the plane. 

"Obviously this has also given us the chance to show off our exhibits as well, so it's the whole package." 

Did you spot the plane? Get any pictures? E-mail pictures@nottinghampost.com

Man arrested in Sneinton following eleven-hour siege

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AN 11-hour siege ended when police cut through the door of a warehouse and arrested a man. 

 The drama began at 6am when police were called to the premises in Handel Street, Sneinton.

 Emergency services raced to the scene and streets were cordoned off. Several businesses closed. 

 Six ambulances, two fire engines and five police cars, including several riot vans, were spotted during the stand-off. Police negotiators were brought in to speak to the man.

 A police spokesman said: "Officers are concerned for the welfare of a man who is inside a warehouse building and is refusing to come out."  

East Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We have a range of vehicles on the scene, including our hazardous area response team, and we are working with the police so that we are ready to deal with any outcome."

 The incident ended at around 5pm. Police said that a 35-year-old man was arrested. 

 Carol Henderson, 49, of nearby Campbell Street, watched the drama unfold and said she saw the moment it ended. 

 She said: "They got him out. 

 "They all went in there in armoured gear, about 10 or 11 of them, cut the front door off and got inside. 

 "I could hear banging. Then it was about another half an hour or 40 minutes and then they chucked him in a police van. 

 "I feel sorry for the businesses that had to close around here."

 During the course of the incident, police cordoned off several roads, including Aberdeen Street, Bath Street, Liverpool Street and Longden Street.

 Phil Booth, owner of JT Soar Recording and Rehearsal studio, in Aberdeen Street, which was within the police cordon, said: "There was lots of police in riot gear, all that kind of stuff.

 "I opened the front door and saw two guys with full riot gear with angle grinders ready to go in." 

 Student Ryan McQueen, 21, was returning home with girlfriend Ashley Williamson, 21, after finishing exams to find Longden Street cordoned off. 

 He said: "We have just been away for a couple of days. 

 "We are at university and have just finished term - we went home and came back to this." 

 Malc Stokes, the landlord of The Vine in Handel Street, said he was woken this morning by reports of the road closure. 

 He said: "I came downstairs and at 9.30am and I had a phone call from one of my staff who said the street had all been blocked off. "The vehicles have been back and forth ever since."

 Atalia Johnson, owner of N8ked Truth Beauty and Nail Salon, in Carlton Road, on the corner of Aberdeen Street, said she had been watching the scene since 10am. 

 "There was a fire engine and a couple of PCSOs cordoned off the road. It did not seem like much then. 

 "I was saying to them, 'this is my business, I would like to know what is going on'. Then they said they were evacuating the area. "

As the day has gone on, more police and ambulances have come in. It is causing a bit of a commotion. 

 "It has caused some disruption, obviously. The roads are closed off so it doesn't help."

 The streets were reopened following the man's arrest.

 Police said last night: "The incident was concluded at about 5.50pm when the man came down from the building safely. "A 35-year-old man has been arrested at the scene."

Man arrested in Sneinton following eleven-hour siege

Firefighters strike for 24 hours with more on way

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FIREFIGHTERS manned picket lines through the night as they carried out their first 24-hour strike.

More than 600 firefighters in Nottinghamshire walked out at 9am yesterday morning in an ongoing dispute with the government over pensions.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) says the proposed raising of pension age from 55 to 60 will put older members at a higher risk of dismissal on the grounds of failing fitness tests and make them eligible for their pensions.

There had been no major incidents when The Post went to press. Events such as the police siege in Sneinton were attended by contingency crews.

However, Notts Fire and Rescue did not provide The Post with a full breakdown of calls during the strike.

Sean McCallum, chair of the Nottinghamshire FBU, said the strike so far had been a success. He said: "It is a sombre day. We don't want to strike but our firefighters have a solid determination to win through this.

"We joined to help people because we care about the community and us striking shows the gravity of the situation. Nobody is taking any joy out of it."

Mr McCallum also said he was unaware of any discussions to bring the strike to a close, so it was likely to continue for the full 24 hours.

John Buckley, Nottinghamshire's chief fire officer, was keen to highlight the dispute was between the FBU and the Government, not with the Notts Fire and Rescue Service.

He said: "The service has a statutory responsibility to provide an emergency fire and rescue response, and that includes during times of industrial action.

"That is what we will do. I sincerely hope that the parties involved can resume negotiations to bring this dispute to a speedy resolution."

This strike was due to end at 9am this morning.

But another strike is set for Saturday June 21 and will again be for 24 hours if talks don't resume between the FBU and the Department for Communities and Local Government.

A spokesman for the department said: "All fire and rescue authorities have robust and well-tested plans in place that include back-up support if needed.

"Public safety will remain the primary focus and if anyone needs emergency assistance they should dial 999."

Do you agree with the strikes Let us know at opinion@nottinghampost.com.

Firefighters strike for 24 hours with more on way

RELIVE: Nottingham Forest webchat

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It's time for our weekly Nottingham Forest webchat - and the Post's Paul Taylor will be here from 12pm to answer all your questions. So get them in early - either tweet @nottmtails, email paul.taylor@nottinghampost.com or simply leave them as a comment on the live blog once we've started.
 

RELIVE: Nottingham Forest webchat

Setback for new Sherwood Forest visitor centre plans

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PLANS for a visitor centre at Sherwood Forest have hit another stumbling block. 

A revamp of the visitor centre at the home of Robin Hood has been on the cards for more than a decade. 

And after a number of setbacks getting lottery funding, Nottinghamshire County Council enlisted the help of Cambridge-based firm Discovery Attractions to develop a £13 million venue to be built by Easter 2016. 

But the council has announced it is no longer working with the company on the plans as information about funding was not provided. 

Derek Higton, Service Director at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "We have worked hard to support Discovery Attractions every step of the way to deliver this project. Due to them not being able to find the finances needed and in view of the time we have given them since they were selected, it is in the best interests of the council and Sherwood Forest that we move on to realise our vision of an engaging and modern visitor offer.

"We are absolutely committed to establishing a high quality visitor centre at Sherwood Forest and I'm sure that local people will be as disappointed with this turn of events as we are."

Nottinghamshire County Council selected Discovery Attractions as preferred bidder for a £13 million Discover Robin Hood venue in October 2012. 

The authority was forced to issue a 10-week deadline in January for the company to present its funding package for the site – and said that other options were explored in case the deadline is not met. 

In March, Discovery Attractions said the delays were caused by the "extremely difficult financial market". 

The council has announced the process to find a new partner to develop the centre will begin in late summer. 

Setback for new Sherwood Forest visitor centre plans

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