Quantcast
Channel: Nottingham Post Latest Stories Feed
Viewing all 10940 articles
Browse latest View live

Police warn of latest "Cryptowall" cyber scam

$
0
0

Police have warned internet users of the latest cyber scam called Cryptowall.

The malicious software, or malware, infects a computer and makes in inoperable until a user pays a 'ransom fee'.

It spreads by infecting website links which are sent via email or accessed through advertisements on trusted websites.

By clicking on the advert and going to a third-party website users may be asked to download a document which is infected.

The website can also be corrupted to run a scan on the user's machine and take advantage of any security flaws before then being able to install the malware.

In some cases, users might think they are installing a video plugin or an update only to discover their computer has been taken over by the software.

Once Cryptowall has taken over it renders the computer unusable unless a fee is paid to the cyber criminals.

PC Chris Dover said that although there have not been any cases reported to Nottinghamshire Police people needed to be aware of the scam to avoid falling victim to it.

He said: "Many of us use the internet as part of our daily lives, for banking, shopping, socialising and entertainment.

"We have to be aware of the potential risks to our computers to avoid cyber criminals winning and people paying hefty fees to have their computers repaired.

"Never click an embedded link in an email from someone you don't know or an untrusted source.

"Keep your computer up to date with antivirus software and delete programs you no longer need or use.

"Additionally, be more cautious about the emails you open and consider running an advert blocker in your browser.

"Finally make backups of your important data and keep them separate from your computer.

"That way, if the worst happens, you should be able to restore your valuable data."

Have you ever been affected by a cyber scam? Get in touch: newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Police warn of latest


How does he do it? Nottingham's 'floating' street performer baffles passers-by

$
0
0
You will have spotted him on Albert Street near River Island and H&M in Nottingham city centre - the silver performer who appears to float above the pavement. But how does he do it? Speculation is rife and city tweeters have been expressing their thoughts on the matter. Marc Winfield tweeted: "He's sat on a pipe that runs through the pole, up his sleeve and down the jacket. "You can tell when they move a bit. Bit sad that I know this, I know." @Odbolz added: "We reckon he uses magnetic plates concealed under the cloth. Along with his metallic clothing." Stephanie Bird mysteriously joined in with: " I saw this at the weekend! I think I've worked it out ;-)" While Alle Modena agreed with Marc, saying: "Yep. Was sat there after being bored going into women's shops all day and came to same conclusion."What do you think? Leave a comment below and let us know.

How does he do it? Nottingham's 'floating' street performer baffles passers-by

Nottinghamshire enjoyed driest June for more than 50 years

$
0
0
FAMILIES basked in the summer sunshine last month as Nottinghamshire enjoyed the driest June for more than 50 years. The latest Met Office statistics reveal that between June 1 and 25, there was just 36.6mm of rainfall – 61 per cent below the expected figures of 60.4mm. The last time the county experienced such a dry June was 59 years ago. The lack of rain has been good news for many businesses who have seen booming trade over the past month. Harvey Broadhead, co-owner of Dovecote Farm Shop at Manor Farm, Barton-in-Fabis, said: "Our barbecues have been very popular in the last month. I would say we've probably had double the amount of take-ups compared to last year. "During Download weekend we sold 5,000 burgers in one weekend – we usually sell about 300. "We've even had to buy a new burger machine to cope with the demand. "We've had a lot of people coming down and having coffees and cakes as well, and the kids have been able to feed the animals. We're certainly hoping for more of the same this month!" Bardills Garden Centre in Stapleford has also been busy. Owner Pam Sisson said: "This year has been great so far. We've been selling lots of barbecues and we've also never sold as much garden furniture. "From about the beginning of May until now, garden furniture has been very popular. "Lots of people have been buying hanging baskets as well. "The good thing is that there has been some rain, but in quick spurts, which has kept the plants going." But the unusually dry weather hasn't been good news for everyone. Staff at Rufford Abbey Country Park have noticed an increase in pest species which thrive in dry conditions. Linda Hardy, visitor services manager for Nottinghamshire County Council's country parks service, said: "Because the weather has been rather dry for this time of year it is suiting certain pest species, which has been a bit of a nuisance for some of our trees. "Our horse chestnuts, for example, have got problems with leaf miner (the larva of an insect that lives in and eats the leaf tissue of plants). "Our cherry trees don't seem to be doing particularly well either. "But on the positive side, we've had brisk trade with sales of ice creams and soft drinks. "We're looking forward to people getting into that summer feeling." June may have been a dry month, but its temperatures could not rival the county's hottest June on record in 1976. This year, the average maximum temperature was 20.5C – 2.5 degrees lower than in 1976. The weathermen have forecast a fairly typical month for the rest of July. A spokesman for the Met Office said: "We're looking at a cloudy but fairly dry week for the rest of the week. "There's certainly a chance of more prolonged sunshine today (Wed) with high temperatures of around 23C. "The temperatures will drop to about 20C by Friday and it will be relatively cloudy. "There will be some chance of showers first thing on Saturday, but these should clear up by about 10am. "The rest of July will be a bit changeable. The cloud and sunshine will continue, with the risk of showers around every now and again. "We've got a high pressure over the UK so that means we hang on to this brighter picture, but there is still a chance of showers."

Nottinghamshire enjoyed driest June for more than 50 years

Gamston girl wins Miss Congeniality prize

$
0
0

Lauren Lovejoy has been crowned Miss Congeniality after winning over her fellow competitors at the Miss Universe Great Britain Final. 

The singer from Gamston, who launched her first video single Dontcha Go in April, overcame considerable adversity to reach the finals – suffering from Asperger's syndrome and being bullied in her teenage years. 

But the 24 year old's spirit shone through at the contest in Cardiff and the other finalists voted her the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant of all the 30 contestants. 

"I was so shocked; I couldn't believe it," said Lauren. "I think they thought I was scatty, but I was friendly and happy to help anyone where I could. 

"It was fantastic that at the end so many of the girls voted for me." 

She was also awarded Miss Not In Vain at the contest. The prize is presented to the finalist who is believed to have captured the essence of the competition's Not In Vain message – to empower women and make a difference to charities. 

Lauren was given the award for her dedication to raising awareness of her condition and for showing others to not let it stand in their way. 

Paula Abbandonato, director of Miss Universe, said she was the obvious choice for both awards. 

She said: "She won Miss Congeniality hands down. Most winners get two or three votes from the other girls, but she easily got 80 per cent. They absolutely loved her. 

"Then when I chose the Not In Vain award, Lauren was the standout girl. She had been clear and open about her Asperger's but also wasn't going to let it define her. 

"She showed other young women that they can have goals and reach them regardless of adversity and I think she was the star of the show." 

Her partner Phil Brown, 43, was proud of Lauren. 

He said: "Over the last three or four years, she has put in a lot of hard work to get where she is and get through a lot of traumatic experiences that happened in her past. 

"She makes a big impression and it is not just for herself, it is for other people with Asperger's too to show them what they can achieve. She is an incredible woman." 

Lauren is getting straight back into her charity work having been appointed the ambassador of Autistic Nottingham after the event, along with her existing work with children's charity Strongbones, which helps children suffering from muscular skeletal conditions. 

She said: "I was so pleased when they asked me to be an ambassador. 

 "I am friendly, very patient and love helping people, so this is exactly what I love to do." 

Lauren is also focusing on her music career, with plans to head into the studio and work on an album. 

 The winner of Miss Universe was Grace Levy from Titchfield. She will go on to represent the UK in the 63rd global Miss Universe competition later this year. 

Winning means becoming a representative of the company for one year, travelling the world, meeting heads of state, dignitaries, participating in charity and social events, and appearing on television, as well as living in New York. 

Gamston girl wins Miss Congeniality prize

Forest game at Sheffield Wednesday to be shown on live television

$
0
0

NOTTINGHAM Forest's game at Sheffield Wednesday next month will be shown live on television.

Stuart Pearce's side head to Hillsborough on Saturday August 30, with the kick-off time now having been moved forward to 12.15pm.

The fixture will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Forest have three away games in the first month of the campaign, with trips to Bolton and Bournemouth to come prior to that.

Stuart Pearce's side face Blackpool in the opening game, at the City Ground, on Saturday August 9, while they are also at home to Reading on Saturday August 23.

Forest also face an away game at Tranmere in the first round of the Capital One Cup, during what will be  busy opening to the new season.




Forest game at Sheffield Wednesday to be shown on live television

Maggie's fundraisers "overwhelmed" by response after burglary

$
0
0

FUNDRAISERS say they are overwhelmed with the "phenomenal" effort to recoup £6,000 stolen from a cancer support centre. 

Readers rallied round when they heard a safe containing the money had been stolen from Maggie's just hours after the charity's annual summer fair on Sunday. 

Well-wishers stepped forward to donate after the Post appealed for help on our website, bringing the total so far to more than £5,600 with gift aid.

Fundraising manager Laura Grant said a huge thank you to everyone who donated.

 She said: "We are overwhelmed by the support in the community. It goes towards restoring faith in human nature at an awful time. "On Monday we struggled to make sense of it but the response has been phenomenal." 

Thieves broke into the distinctive green building, in the grounds of Nottingham City Hospital, on Sunday at around 10.45pm. Along with the safe they grabbed the centre's computers. 

As well as donations, including £3,000 from a former Nottinghamshire resident and Post reader in Japan, Maggie's has been flooded with offers of help to repair the damage to the property and messages of support, both on its own Facebook page and the Post's.

 Cancer patient Jenny Rhodes, who ran a stall at the summer fair, said: "We will bounce back from this. Nothing is going to spoil the love and happiness Maggie's gives to us."

 The 48 year old from Gedling, who has incurable breast cancer, was in tears at the start of the week but today she was overjoyed by the response to the appeal.

 "I am astounded. Out of bad comes good," she said. 

"There are some genuinely good people in Nottingham.... and Japan." 

Reader Joan Simpson, 90, from Bilborough, rang the Post to condemn the culprits. "I had a breast off when I was 83 and three weeks ago I found out that the cancer has come back.

"When I heard the news about the break-in I was so disgusted with these people. It has really upset me.

 "My daughter Yvonne has made a donation today. I feel much better knowing that more than £5,000 has been raised." 

As previously reported by the Post, reader Doug Morton, who teaches in Japan, donated £3,000 to the appeal after seeing the story online. The 35-year- old, originally from Wysall, was disgusted by the theft. 

He said: "I still can't understand why someone would steal from Maggie's and the community like this. Let's hope they get caught quickly." 

The stolen safe also contained registration forms and payment for the charity's forthcoming 5k Moonlight Walk in Mapperley Park on July 18. 

Anyone who registered for the event over the last week is asked to contact Laura on 07970 043949. 

Police have launched an investigation into the break-in. 

 To donate to the Maggie's appeal, visit the website www.justgiving.com/Laura-Grant12

Maggie's fundraisers

QUIZ: When and where in Nottingham is this?

$
0
0
Here's a quick quiz for nostalgia fans...we've been digging around in the archives and come up with this gem. So we want to know - when and where in Nottingham was this taken? Answers will be revealed on our Twitter and Facebook pages on Wednesday.

QUIZ: When and where in Nottingham is this?

Red Hot World Buffet lays on spread for more than 200 troops on their return from Afghanistan

$
0
0

After eight months of vacuum packed mushroom omelettes the returning troops from Afghanistan were ravenous for some decent, and solid, grub.

More than 200 soldiers from the 9th/12th Royal Lancers descended on the Red Hot World Buffet, at the Corner House, in Trinity Square, on Tuesday July 1 for a free all-you-can-eat feast.

The Grantham-based regiment returned from their final tour of Afghanistan two weeks ago and had chosen Nottingham to let their hair down and waist bands out.

Staff Sergeant Lea Broomfield, who has lived in both Eastwood and Stapleford, was over the moon to be home and was looking forward to spending time with his family.

The 41-year-old is one of the regiment's oldest serving soldiers and is the self-proclaimed "dad" of troops.

He said: "I feel pretty good about myself considering I am keeping up with a lot of 18 year olds but I do feel a bit out of it sometimes when they are talking about the latest music or clothes.

"My oldest girl is 18 so I do feel like a bit of a dad to them sometimes.

"I miss my family and friends a lot when I am away but it is also the little things as well like the fact I come home and have missed a whole series of Big Brother or Britain's Got Talent.

"You get into the habit of watching things you can see most of, in only a couple of weeks."

SSgt Broomfield was one of around 200 soldiers to take part in a series of four "homecoming parades" which have taken place in Leicester, Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Northampton.

Officer Commanding of B squadron and the Brigade Reconnaissance Force in Afghanistan Tom McDermott, 35, said: "Unfortunately we didn't get to parade in Nottingham so we have chosen it as the place to have our night out.

"It is a great feeling after a long week, and indeed a long eight months to sit down have some great food and a couple of beers.

"It is good chance to take stock of where we are before we all go off in our separate ways and catch up with our families."

The squadron which was mostly deployed by helicopter targeted specific threats in Afghanistan such as suicide bombers.

Former Nottingham University student Lieutenant Felix Dieppe, 24, is the third generation of his family to serve in the forces.

He said: "Joining the army was always something that I wanted to do and I am proud to have served with such a brilliant regiment which has had such a successful tour of Afghanistan.

"I have really enjoyed the experience but it wasn't without its trials and tribulations and we did suffer some casualties and unfortunately one soldier did die.

"Coming home and seeing the support of the area helps you remember why you are out there."

General manager of the Red Hot World Buffet Kieran Bailey invited the troops to dine for free at the restaurant after he was approached by one of the Lieutenants to see if they could bag a group discount.

He said: "They were coming back from the homecoming parades which they said in some ways were even more stressful than Afghanistan.

"I just thought: They have been in Afghanistan for eight months which is at a huge risk to their lives and a huge sacrifice, if I can't feed a few of them for free then I should go away and think about myself."

Have you served in the armed forces? Get in touch: Newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Red Hot World Buffet lays on spread for more than 200 troops on their return from Afghanistan


Jury retire in Mansfield murder trial

$
0
0

Jurors trying a woman who allegedly murdered her long-term boyfriend in Mansfield are now considering their verdict.

Michelle Swift, 48, of Ladybrook Place, Mansfield, has denied the murder of Emiel Blankert on December 13 last year.

Her trial at Nottingham Crown Court heard that she allegedly delivered "a significant blunt-force injury to his abdomen". 

The prosecution says Swift may have used some sort of blunt weapon or her foot or feet to deliver one or more kicks or stamps. 

Mr Blankert, 48, who had been in a relationship with Swift for 17 years, died days after the alleged attack.

The court heard that neither Swift nor Mr Blankert, who were both alcoholics and drug abusers, recognised at the time how serious the injury was. 

Jury retire in Mansfield murder trial

Nottinghamshire man charged with terrorist offences

$
0
0
A MAN from Nottinghamshire has been charged with terrorist financing over alleged fraudulent fundraising for Syrian aid. Adeel Ulhaq, 19, was arrested on June 5 when police searched a house in Sutton-in-Ashfield. A 43-year-old woman was also arrested but was later released without charge. Mr Ulhaq appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on Tuesday and is due to appear at the Old Bailey on July 18. The arrests followed an investigation by Nottinghamshire Police and the North East Counter Terrorism Unit. Terrorist financing is an offence contrary to section 17 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Nottinghamshire man charged with terrorist offences

RELIVE: Warwickshire v Nottinghamshire - day four

$
0
0
WELCOME to what should be an enthralling final day at Edgbaston. Warwickshire resume on 61 for 2 needing 228 more to beat Notts. Nottinghamshire: SJ Mullaney, PA Jaques, AD Hales, JWA Taylor, SR Patel, MH Wessels, CW Read, PM Siddle, LJ Fletcher, AR Adams, HF Gurney Warwickshire: V Chopra*, WTS Porterfield, IJL Trott, SR Hain, TR Ambrose†, CR Woakes, R Clarke, KHD Barker, JS Patel, CJC Wright, WB Rankin 4.37pm: Warwickshire win by 3 wkts. Great game but a blow to Notts' title hopes. That said, they still go top of the table. 4.27pm: 5 needed. Siddle is still absolutely flying in. 50 partnership from Barker and Ambrose is up. 4.20pm: Warks need 10 to win. 4pm: Notts have taken the new ball. Here we go... 3.44pm: Tea: 28 needed with three wickets in hand. Warks 261 for 7. A short but exciting final session awaits. 3.17pm: 250 up for Warks. 39 needed. 250 for 7. 3pm: Wicket! 2 in 3 for Patel. Clarke is caught by Jaques at silly point as he came down the pitch. 234 for 7. Game on. #warksvnotts 2.56pm: Wicket! Woakes is out for a duck as he is bowled by Patel. He tried a pull and missed it. 232 for 6. Still 57 needed. 2.40pm: Wicket! A flicker of hope as Hain goes for 63. Warks need 61 and it's 228 for 5. Hain was c Hales b Patel at first slip prodding forwards. There were five round the bat. 2.18pm: 100 partnership from Hain and Ambrose. 220/4. Game running away from Notts. 2pm: 50 for Sam Hain and 200 up for Warwickshire. They are looking all too comfortable today as the pitch offers little. 89 needed. 1pm: Lunch 176/4. 113 need for Warks. Fascinating game. Hain 37 and Ambrose 25 have batted tremendously. 12.30pm: 150 up after a chance goes begging. By his standards Riki Wessels will have expected to have held on to an edge from Hain off the bowling of Patel when Hain was on 18. 12.05pm: Wicket! Wright is out. One shot too many as he looked to drive a ball that was a little too short from Fletcher. He was caught behind for 45 having batted really well. 169 more needed. 120/4 11.50am: A quick fire 50 stand for Hain and Wright. Hain has only made eight of them. 115 for 3. Could do with getting Wright out. 11.43am: Chris Wright batting like a seasoned batsman here. He's 36 and some lovely shots into the offside have taken Warks to 101 for 3. 11.35am: At 89/3 Warwickshire 200 more. 11.15am: Flying start for Notts as they got Trott in the first over of the day. He fended off the second ball he faced from Siddle straight to Taylor at short leg. He went for 19. Warks now 82/3 chasing 289.

RELIVE: Warwickshire v Nottinghamshire - day four

Matt Francis leaves Nottingham Panthers for Aalborg Pirates

$
0
0
MATT Francis is no longer a Nottingham Panthers player after he joined Aalborg Pirates. The Danish side are coached by former Coventry Blaze boss Paul Thompson. He tweeted that Aalborg have landed the 'best centre in the Elite League era'. Francis spent three years with the Panthers, proving to be a key player in each. Last season he scored 63 points in 59 games. The 28-year-old former Gwinnett Gladiator is sure to be a big loss to the Panthers, but coach Corey Neilson has previously said he would go with his blessing. In fact he helped his fellow Canadian find a new club in recognition of his service. Last month he told the Post: "He's been great for the Panthers. "He was arguably our best player last year. He was arguably one of the best players in the league last year. "If he wants to explore other options to develop his career then I feel I owe it to him to help him."

Matt Francis leaves Nottingham Panthers for Aalborg Pirates

Van believed to have been used in robbery in Arnold recovered by police

$
0
0
A VAN believed to have been used in a robbery in Arnold on Tuesday has been recovered by police. The white VW Transporter lost its side sliding door when three men fled an attack on a delivery driver in the car park at the rear of Jem Leisure in Front Street. It happened just after noon on Tuesday. Cash was stolen and the victim was left shaken by the ordeal. But, following an appeal to the public, a vehicle matching the description of the one used in the robbery was recovered from the Arnold area last night. Detective Inspector Becky Hodgman said: "The power of social media came through for us when a member of the public saw our appeal and called, pointing us in the right direction. "The van is now being forensically examined. "We think there were three people involved in this robbery, two who jumped out to attack the man and one who stayed behind the wheel. Can you help our enquiry? Has someone you know been flashing the cash around? If you think you know who was involved, call us." Contact police on 101 with any information.

The July issue of Nottinghamshire Today - OUT NOW!

$
0
0
In this month's issue, we meet the latest upcoming singer from Nottingham, Ronika. We also say hello to the new face of Notts TV, Becky Sheeran, whose presenting skills and beauty blog are gracing the television screens of Nottingham. There's a new shopping destination on the city map – Cobden Chambers. For the foodies out there, we head to a number of new restaurant openings and old favourites, including The Pudding Pantry and The Sanctuary. We also get into World Cup spirit with a dedicated Brazilian fashion page and food page. The magazine is also packed with our regular features on food and eating out, beautiful homes for sale, interiors, travel and our popular social diary picture specials. Don't miss it.Pick up your copy from some of Nottinghamshire's finest bars, restaurants, clubs and locations.Visit the dedicated Nottinghamshire Today website hereFollow us on TwitterLike us on Facebook Built on the latest HTML 5 technology, when you take out your FREE subscription you can access Nottinghamshire Today 'anywhere, anytime' via your ...• PC • iPhone • iPad • Android devices • Kindle Fire

The July issue of Nottinghamshire Today - OUT NOW!

Tennis: Arnold's Jocelyn Rae looks to future after Wimbledon exit

$
0
0
ARNOLD'S Jocelyn Rae is looking to the future with confidence after her Wimbledon campaign was brought to a conclusion. Rae and doubles partner Colin Fleming lost their second round mixed doubles match in straight sets in just under an hour. However, the unseeded wildcards were always going to struggle against number seven seeds Rohan Bopanna and Andrea Hlavackova. And while the match was close, it turned on some key moments, the Commonwealth champions – who decisively struggled with their serve – going down 6-4, 7-5. "Both of those guys were experienced doubles players and it was always going to be tough against seeds but we were competitive and right in the match," said Rae. "A few things didn't go our way and we had some chances that we didn't take. When we made mistakes they exploited them and that was the difference." However, Rae insists her Wimbledon campaign has given her self-belief to look ahead with optimism after recovering from a career threatening foot injury. Her goal is now edging up the women's doubles rankings alongside partner Anna Smith. Together the pairing have won nine ITF tournaments since last November, including the AEGON Trophy in Nottingham last month. But they are still ranked 138th in the world and must crack the world's top 50 to automatically qualify for the major tournaments, rather than rely on wildcard invites. "My injury made me reassess and focus on doubles and I'm really excited about the future," she said. "Anna and I have a great relationship and it helps we are good friends. I think I can make a good living from doubles but we really need to improve our ranking. "That won't be easy, you've got to play lots of tournaments and be really consistent and you need to be challenging yourself against the best players. Our goal is to make the top 100 and then focus on cracking the top 50." Rae and Smith also want to establish themselves in Judy Murray's British Fed Cup team but must again improve their ranking to earn a shot because, unlike the men's Davis Cup, Murray can only select them as a pair if they crack the world's top 30. The 23-year old made her debut in the event this year after Laura Robson's injury and is targeting a quick return. "I made my Fed Cup debut this year and I partnered Heather Watson but we lost both matches," she added. "The goal is for me and Anna to play together but we have to improve our ranking to do that. We've got these targets now and it's exciting." As the Official Banking Partner of The Championships, HSBC is helping fans get closer to Wimbledon by giving them the chance to win a coaching clinic with Tim Henman. For further information, visit www.wimbledon.com/hsbc

Tennis: Arnold's Jocelyn Rae looks to future after Wimbledon exit


Firefighters set to strike on July 10

$
0
0

FIREFIGHTERS will join hundreds of thousands of other public sector workers taking strike action next Thursday. 

Members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) in England and Wales will walk out for nine hours from 10am to 7pm. 

This will be the 15th time the FBU has walked out in a long-running dispute over pensions. 

On the same day, local government workers, teachers and civil servants will also be on strike over a range of issues, including attacks on pay and pensions and workloads. 

 Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: "The FBU has wanted to settle our dispute for a long time, but the government at Westminster is simply not listening.

"We are therefore proud to take strike action alongside our colleagues in other unions on 10 July. 

"The fact that this government has united so many workers to take strike action against them is a testament to the failure of their policies.

"They are destroying our public services and wrecking the lives of millions."

Fire minister Brandon Lewis has said: "The deal gives firefighters one of the most generous pension schemes in all the public sector and the proposals protect the earned rights of a higher proportion of members than any other public sector scheme.

"An equivalent private pension would be worth over half a million pounds and require firefighters to contribute twice as much."

Firefighters set to strike on July 10

The Nottingham Ice Diet: A cool new way to lose weight?

$
0
0

Eating ice cream could be the answer to slimming our waistlines, with a new diet catching the imaginations of scientists from the University of Nottingham

The Ice Diet has been championed by American gastroenterologist Dr Brian Weiner, who claims he shed pounds by eating sorbets and crushed ice drinks. 

He was backed by a group of Australian medical researchers in Sydney who found cool conditions were conducive to weight loss, with men burning calories 40 per cent faster when they slept in chilly rooms. 

Now researchers from the university are gearing up to test the theory over the summer months. 

Professor Michael Symonds from the School of Medicine has faith in the study after his own research into brown fat. 

He said: "Brown fat is good fat tissue that is only present in small amounts in the body. 

"It is full of uncoupling protein 1, which when activated creates 300 times of heat per gram than normal fat tissue. We may only have 100g in our bodies, but that could account for 10 to 20 per cent of heat production." 

Up until eight years ago, this type of fat was only thought to exist in babies to help them adjust to the difference in temperature from the womb to the outside world. 

But it has been proven that a small amount still exists in adults. 

The heat generated enables the body to burn calories much faster, and if the university can find something to spur this heat production, it could become the answer to the obesity crisis hitting the UK. 

Professor Symonds said: "We have done previous tests on activating this brown fat, such as putting a hand into cold water or drinking cool milk. 

"Now we want to find out more dietary compounds that can activate it and are looking at ice lollies, ice creams and crushed ice in a hope this could burn more calories." 

The university has been given funding from the Queen's Medical Centre's special trustees and are hoping for more from the university's own Impact campaign – which aims to make a positive and lasting influence on society through numerous projects. 

But Professor Symonds said the testing would not cost much, despite the massive impact it could have. 

He said: "We only have a few thousand pounds in funding but we don't need much to do it. We have the thermal imaging cameras, we have the staff and ice creams don't cost very much! 

"Students from Spain will be coming over to help with the research too and we will be recruiting 10 to 15 volunteers for the work." 

The research should be completed within a matter of weeks, but the professor hopes the impact will be long lasting. 

He said: "We would be able to give people the advice they need, what they can eat to burn off the extra calories and show them the difference between drinking something instead of fizzy drinks full of sugar."

The Nottingham Ice Diet: A cool new way to lose weight?

Notts star Stuart Broad in England squad for Trent Bridge India Test

$
0
0
ENGLAND welcomed back "vivacious character" Ben Stokes in an otherwise unchanged squad for the first Investec Test against India in Nottingham next week. This means Nottinghamshire's Stuart Broad will once again line up for his country on his home ground of Trent Bridge from Wednesday. Without long to dwell on the dramatic last-gasp defeat against Sri Lanka at Headingley, selectors opted to take an identical 12-man squad to Trent Bridge for the flagship series against India augmented by Durham all-rounder Stokes. The 23-year-old was the star performer during England's otherwise dismal Ashes winter, taking 15 wickets and hitting a maiden Test century in the 5-0 Australia whitewash, but saw his progress stall after a self-inflicted injury. Stokes punched a locker on the limited-overs tour of West Indies, forcing him to miss the World Twenty20 and, due to uncertainty over his match-fitness, the start of England's international summer. But it was always a question of when, rather than if, he would re-enter the fray, and ten wickets in his last LV= County Championship match for Durham made a compelling case that the time was right. National selector James Whitaker told Sky Sports News: "Ben's been frustrated at the start of the season from what happened at the back end of the winter. Now he comes in with full vigour into our squad and he fully deserves it. "Ben's strength and vigour will add to the whole environment and it will be fantastic for him. "He is a vivacious character, he's got some 'X factor', he's fantastic on flat wickets and gets some movement off the pitch. "We're excited about Ben." Whitaker's words suggest Stokes can expect to be on duty for a first home Test in Nottingham on July 9, but the balancing the side will be a tricky call. Moeen Ali is the man in possession of Stokes' preferred role at number six, but his gutsy maiden century at Headingley – coupled with the fact that he is currently the side's main spinner – means he appears bullet-proof. In that case, Chris Jordan would become vulnerable. He has had a lively start to his England career, impressing with his all-round ability and enthusiasm. But his return in the second match against Sri Lanka – no wickets, scores of 17 and 21 and a dropped catch at slip – may not be enough to hold off Stokes. Chris Woakes, 12th man in both Tests this summer, has been rewarded with another call-up but is unlikely to feature. Whitaker also admitted Moeen's status as the side's leading slow bowler, with support from part-timer Joe Root, was less than ideal. Moeen has promise as a bowler but is significantly more developed with bat in hand, and captain Alastair Cook has been reluctant to use him at key stages so far. "Ever since Graeme Swann stood down... we knew we had to rebalance the team, look at different options for the summer and beyond," Whitaker said. "We think we've got a good balance now for the type of wickets we play on in England. Moeen will help the spin department and so will Joe Root. "It's a different way of balancing the team. It might be difficult for the public to get used to but we've got three or four youngish spinners operating in country cricket who we, as selectors, feel are not quite ready yet. "We have faith in Moeen and think he'll perform well." Cook is another player who retains the selection panel's full confidence. His captaincy is under the microscope like never before, with a lack of runs at the top of the order only serving to intensify the debate. But Whitaker downplayed the issue, adding: "He's a fine, fine leader. He's scored 30 international hundreds, over 11,000 runs and he's a quality player going through a period where he's struggling to get beyond 20-25. "He's got out full backing and we'll all clap our hands when that (turn in form) does happen."

Notts star Stuart Broad in England squad for Trent Bridge India Test

Hospital trust pays out after Nottingham patient was left bleeding to death on ward

$
0
0
THE family of a patient who bled to death following a routine operation have received a payout from the hospital trust, after it admitted "failing its basic duties of care". Susan Wilson, 58, of Larkhill Village in Clifton, suffered a heart attack on Ward E15 at the Queen's Medical Centre after having her gallbladder removed. An inquest into her death heard nurses had failed to carry out observations on her for 16 hours and only discovered anything was wrong when she was already dead. Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust has now agreed to pay Mrs Wilson's family an undisclosed sum in an out-of-court settlement. Mrs Wilson's partner Stuart Clift, 67, said: "The hospital has agreed they were in the wrong and that they didn't provide the care they should have done. "I feel that to some extent, justice has been done but obviously there is no price you can put on anybody's life, especially Susan's. "The circumstances of her death left me struggling to stay in the place we were living and I had a feeling of desolation after her death." Mr Wilson, who still lives in Larkhill Village, added: "We had moved to Larkhill for our retirement and thought we'd be there for 10 to 20 years. "I never expected Susan would die within three years." Mrs Wilson had decided to go ahead with the operation to deal with a painful gallbladder in October last year and was aware of the risks because of an existing heart problem. After the surgery, she spent time on a high dependency unit before being moved to Ward E18, where nursing observations should have been carried out. Coroner Heidi Connor said at the inquest that there were "too many unknowns" to say whether Mrs Wilson's death would have been avoided if the checks had been made, but urged the hospital trust to deal with its staffing issues. Peter Homa, chief executive of Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "We reiterate our sincere and unreserved apologies to the family for failing our basic duties of care and letting Mrs Wilson and them down. "Whilst no amount of money can undo the distress the family have experienced as a result of this tragic case or compensate for their loss, we hope the settlement provides some financial security for the future." Paul Sankey, clinical negligence lawyer with London law firm Slater and Gordon, who represented Mrs Wilson's family, said: "Evidence heard at the inquest raised grave concerns about the quality of care Susan received and the processes that were in place at the Queen's Medical Centre. "It is clear that Susan's tragic death was wholly avoidable. It is simply not acceptable that she was left to bleed to death on a hospital ward and it is important those responsible were held to account." "Despite their loss, Susan's family have been determined to remember her as the popular, happy, much-loved woman that she was. "They now hope that important lessons are learned from the events that led to her death and that this will prevent other families suffering a similar tragedy in the future." Mr Clift said his partner, who had one son, Sean, 41, had been "well-liked" by everyone she met. He added: "She was an active person and was very bubbly and gregarious. "She would always talk to people before they had to talk to her. She is missed by all her family and friends." A report released by Nottingham Hospitals NHS Trust on Tuesday confirmed a new nurse handover project to has been rolled out to all wards. This aims to ensure better completion of fluid balance and observation charts. The next phase of this work will see the development of an electronic handover system.

Hospital trust pays out after Nottingham patient was left bleeding to death on ward

Two-time cancer survivor plans cycling weekend for QMC

$
0
0

The life-saving working of NHS staff has inspired a two-times cancer survivor to organise a cycling fundraising event for the Queen's Medical Centre

Richard Harley, 69, of Hucknall is a former pro-cyclist that put the breaks on riding when he retired back in 1973. 

But after suffering from both bowel and pancreatic cancer in the past four years, he got back in the saddle to get fit. 

Now Mr Harley wants to use his rekindled passion to raise cash for a new helipad at the QMC. 

At the end of 2009, the consultant engineer came home for Christmas. But a sudden bout of hiccups every time he ate gave him some concern. 

His GP sent him straight to hospital and he said he "felt like a fraud" being squeezed in so quickly to speak to a consultant. 

But after going into endoscopy two days later, Mr Harley discovered the instinct of his GP had been correct. 

He said: "I sat with my wife and the surgeon said it was not good news. When my wife asked what we could do to get it sorted, he explained the first thing she should do is go home and get my affairs in order. Then the seriousness sunk in." 

Mr Harley had bowel cancer and had to have an operation removing 65% of his bowel to get rid of the disease. 

He reacted well to the treatment and began to get his fitness back, with his best friend David making him pick up a bike for the first time in over 30 years. 

But as everything seemed in order, disaster stuck again when he was diagnosed with an inoperable cancer on his pancreas. 

Mr Harley said: "The doctor said he couldn't operate on it without risking my life but I said I didn't want to die a slow death at home and for my grandchildren to see it." 

A painstaking nine hours of surgery later by the clinical lead for the trauma centre, Adam Brooks, saw Mr Harley recover again. 

He said: "Me and Adam became friends after that and regularly began cycling together. He told me about the 'golden hour' in trauma where if you get a patient into surgery in that time, you are much more likely to save their life. 

"But he also told me how 80% of that time was taken up in transit and the need for a helipad." 

The idea of a cycling weekend for families was born with the goal of raising money for the much needed facility. 

The Trent Valley Sportive will take place at Manor Farm in Bleasby, near Southwell, on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July. As well as cycling, there will be family entertainment, with fun for everyone on two wheels or two feet. 

Andrew Goodwin, the owner of Manor Farm Tea Shoppe, was delighted to be involved. 

He said: "Richard is a big supporter of the tea shop and we want to support him too. It is a lovely place to ride bikes with all the trails and on top of that it is a very worthy charity."

For more information on the event visit www.saysportsmedia.co.uk.

Two-time cancer survivor plans cycling weekend for QMC

Viewing all 10940 articles
Browse latest View live


<script src="https://jsc.adskeeper.com/r/s/rssing.com.1596347.js" async> </script>