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A £30 million cash boost towards the Nottingham Skills Hub has been heralded as a "vital investment" in the city's future.

The hub will see Central College and New College Nottingham work together to create a "state of the art" facility on Canal Street.

The aim is to create a college that will ensure youngsters are ready for the world of work and industry – and teach them skills such as lace manufacturing, design and event management.

Peter Richardson, chairman of D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, said the new hub could be "transformational" for the city.

He added: "It's a massive, vital investment in the future prosperity of the city and in the future of the children who live here.

"This, with the developments around the Broadmarsh, will change the area for the better.

"It's amazing news."

Mr Richardson, along with chief executive of the LEP David Ralph visited Ilkeston-based precision laser cutting company FC Laser yesterday, who have benefited from Government money in the past.

The company applied for a grant of £66,000 from D2N2's Unlocking Investment for Growth programme which is supported by the Government's Regional Growth Fund.

And business development manager Darren Johnson said projects like the Skills Hub were important.

He said: "In businesses like ours, we need people that are ready for work.

"We do a lot of training here to get people up to standard, but we want the foundations there.

"We have had apprentices come in the past and it's been great to see them develop their work."

The new development will create around 450 jobs and has been given the money from the Local Growth Fund which was announced yesterday.

Other proposals that got money were new relief roads for Newark and Hucknall, as well as an expansion to BioCity.

The Skills Hub won the biggest amount of funding in the area from the Government.

The £60 million project will see a 25,000 sq m college built on derelict land near the Broadmarsh with documents saying it will "respond directly to the needs of local employers" and "supply the skills required for Nottingham's key employment and growth sectors."

Malcolm Cowgill, principal of Central College said the hub "allows us to radically change" the landscape of education in the city.

He said: "It responds directly to the needs of Nottingham's employers and will provide the skills required to drive the City's Growth Plan forward.

"It is an exciting and innovative collaboration between our two colleges, both of which are committed to improving Nottingham's Education and Skills infrastructure.

"It brings a much needed focus that will mean that employers and individuals know exactly where to go to get the skills they need."

And Dawn Whitemore, principal of New College Nottingham, said: "The Skills Hub is one of two new builds in progress along with New College Nottingham's Basford Hall.

"This level of interest in Nottingham is welcomed and the two colleges will be working together to make sure students and employers benefit from the best possible learning experience."

Nottingham Skills Hub is vital investment in future of city

CITY centre club Dogma has had its licence suspended following a stabbing. The police asked the city council to review the Byard Lane venue after the attack which happened on June 22. At the time three men were arrested but were later bailed. Staff at neighbouring clothes shop Reiss are pleased the bar has been closed. Supervisor Adam Hutson said: "I am not really surprised it has been shut down at all. "We have wanted it closed for a few years now because I think it looks terrible and we have had a lot of trouble. "We have had our windows put through and on a weekend there is usually sick everywhere. "It is just a pain for all the other businesses down here." Following the stabbing some people took to the club's Facebook page to provide messages of support. Rosanna Williamson from Nottingham said: "Dogma is without doubt the best bar in Nottingham. "This incident is not and by no means a reflection on the bar, but an extremely small minority granted entry that night. "I wish the victim a speedy and full recovery." Dogma's future will be decided at licensing panel held at Nottingham City council on Monday, July 21, at 10.30am. A council spokesman said: "Following the recent stabbing incident at Dogma, the police asked us to urgently review the licence for the premises as being associated with serious crime and disorder, and the decision was taken to suspend its licence. "This decision will be reviewed by a Special Licensing Panel on when further information will be provided by the police and options for further action will be considered, including the option of fully revoking the premises licence." The Nottingham Post was unable to contact the management of the bar. However, a message stuck on the door of the club said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances we are unfortunately closed for today. "We apologise for any inconvenience caused." A second notice is also stuck on the window about the licence review. A Nottinghamshire Police spokesman said: "The three arrested men are still on bail and the victim is now at home recovering. "The club has been shut down due to the serious nature of the incident. "The matter will go before a Nottingham City Council licensing panel on July 21." Do you think the bar should be allowed to operate after the trouble? Let us know by sending an email to newsdesk@nottinghampsot.com.

Dogma has licence suspended following stabbing

Fire crews had to force their way into a first floor flat after smoke was seen escaping from an open window.

The fire in Raibank Gardens, Woodthorpe, had started in the airing cupboard of the property and had spread to the landing where two firemen were able to extinguish it.

Nobody was at home at the time of the incident at around 2pm on Monday July 7.

Firefighters from Carlton and Arnold left the premises at around 2.50pm.

Fire crews force their way into Woodthorpe flat to extinguish airing cupboard blaze

ARSENAL are the latest club to be linked with a move for highly rated Nottingham Forest keeper Karl Darlow.
A host of Premier League clubs are believed to be monitoring the 23-year-old, who has established himself as first choice at the City Ground.
Liverpool and Spurs are also thought to be keen on the player, who kept the experienced Dorus de Vries sat on the sidelines with his capable, composed performances last season.
Arsene Wenger is the latest top flight boss to be linked with Darlow – with the Gunners keen to replace Lukasz Fabianski, who left the Emirates earlier in the summer.
Arsenal are keen to provide competition for their own highly regarded keeper, Wojciech Szczesny.
Forest have already had to fend off interest in another of their young players, in the form of 20-year-old defender Jamaal Lascelles.
QPR made an offer thought to be worth as much as £4m for the central defender who, like Darlow, enhanced his reputation last season.
Forest are not in a rush to cash in on either player, with new manager Stuart Pearce keen to make his side stronger, rather then sell off the Reds' prize assets.
But they could have their resolve tested again, if Arsenal decide to step up their interest with a concrete offer for the product of the Forest youth academy.

Transfer gossip: Arsenal linked with Forest keeper Karl Darlow

Statistics that suggest Nottinghamshire roads are more congested than those in New York have been questioned by transport figureheads. Traffic-data company Inrix have suggested roads in South Nottinghamshire, a statistical boundary that covers much of the county, are the twelfth most congested in both Europe and North America. The findings were ranked by looking at the difference in traffic speed during peak hours from Monday to Friday against what it was like when roads were free-flowing. This information, taken across the past 12 months, was then averaged out to create a rank-able score. This could mean that Nottinghamshire achieved a higher score because the drop in speed between peak and non-peak times might be more dramatic than in cities with heavier or grid-locked traffic. The area analysed by Inrix, stretches from the city centre to Sutton-in-Ashfield in the north, Bingham in the east, East Leake in the south and Little Eaton in the west. This also incorporates junction 25 to junction 27 of the M1 and the A52. The "South Nottinghamshire" boundary used by Inrix was based on a guideline provided by Eurostat and the Office for National Statistics. It reflects data collected from June 2013-2014. Inrix spokesman Chris Lambert said: "The common factor between cities with high congestion tends to be good news really, showing there's a very good improving economy leading to an increase in traffic congestion. "Although we all hate sitting in congestion it's because people want to be in the area, want to come into the city and work." Jamil Ahmed, Chairman of the Nottingham Licensed Taxi Owners' and Drivers' Association questioned the statistics but believed there were some issues with congestion. He said: "I don't think that Nottingham sticks out particularly though, it's like any other city." "Congestion is an issue at peak times in the city centre though and especially with roadworks which are ongoing still at the moment, although our drivers are experienced to find other avenues to take." Nottingham City Council's Portfolio holder for Transport councillor Jane Urquhart also queried the figures. She said: "This survey covers an area well outside the city, including the A453 and the M1 where there have been extensive roadworks recently. "Those improvements, as well as schemes underway in the city including the tram extension and ring road improvements, are all designed to ease congestion, and will do so once complete. "I'm confident that once current transport developments are complete, we will return to some of the lowest congestion levels in a major UK city." Andy Warrington, Service Director for Highways at Nottinghamshire County Council added they were endeavouring to improve transport links in the county. He said"The county council is contributing £20m towards the £150m improvement of the A453 in south Nottinghamshire. "The widening and dualling of this 11.5km route started construction in January 2013 and is on schedule to be completed by summer 2015 helping alleviate traffic congestion in south Nottinghamshire." Are Nottinghamshire roads driving you up the wall? Email newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Figures questioned suggesting roads in Nottinghamshire are more congested than in New York

CHARLIE Wade's eyes filled with tears as she was presented with an award for her exemplary attendance at school. When asked if her mum would be proud, she nodded silently. The 12-year-old recently lost her mum to cancer – yet still went into school the very next day. She was one of a number of youngsters to be honoured at the Lord Mayor's Attendance Awards on Monday, which recognised those who go the extra mile to be in school. Charlie picked up an Attendance with Courage award – one of six award categories. Despite going through a trauma that most adults would find difficult, Charlie has astounded teachers at Farnborough School in Clifton with her determination to carry on. For Charlie, school has been the support she needed to cope in the aftermath of her mum's death. She said: "I'm over the moon as I've been at school ever since my mum died. I wanted to keep going to school as I could talk to people there about what I was going through. They've really helped me." Charlie wasn't the only youngster to have shown remarkable courage in the face of adversity. Six-year-old Tami Adesina also picked up an Attendance with Courage award after also losing her mum earlier this year. Despite this, the brave youngster has maintained a perfect record of attendance at Southwark Primary School in Old Basford. She said she was "very happy" to be recognised for her achievements. Kaya Percival, who is part of the school's attendance team and was also Tami's nursery teacher, said: "I'm so proud of Tami – it's an amazing achievement. She's a great role model to all the children at the school. To go through what she's been through and still come to school is remarkable." The awards also honoured those who have clocked up a perfect 100% attendance record – including 15-year-old Jemma Ford. The Year 10 pupil at Farnborough School has managed perfect attendance for eight consecutive years. She said: "I work hard to try and be in school all the time, even when I'm not feeling well. I'm always encouraging my friends not to take days off." The awards were part of a drive by Nottingham City Council to improve attendance across the city. Cllr Sam Webster, executive assistant for schools in Nottingham, said: "We've heard some very moving stories – it's easy to forget some of the situations that young people find themselves in. "The message from the council is that attending school every day is really important. "At the moment, we do lag behind in Nottingham. We don't have any excuses – if you compare us to similar cities we still don't do as well. "Everybody in the council and in schools is working together to make sure we improve the situation. It's what our young people deserve." THE WINNERS: Most Improved Primary Attendance: Firbeck Primary School, Wollaton Most Improved Secondary Attendance: Djanogly City Academy, Sherwood Rise Young Carer Awards: Jak Smith, Year 7 at Nottingham University Samworth Academy, Bilborough Elizabeth Miller, New College Nottingham Jessica Oliver, Year 7 at Big Wood School, Bestwood Attendance with Courage Awards: Charlie Wade, Year 7 at Farnborough School, Clifton Kayleigh Tate, Year 6 at Glenbrook Primary School, Bilborough Simeran Kaur, Year 4 at Scotholme Primary School, Hyson Green Tami Adesina, Year 1 at Southwark Primary School, Old Basford Blaise Gwynne, Year 1 at Robin Hood Primary School, Bestwood Priority Families Award: Marisha King, Farnborough School, Clifton Lord Mayor's Special Award: Kyra Bowen, Year 9 at Farnborough School, Clifton Jemma Ford, Year 10 at Farnborough School, Clifton Rachel Sims, Year 9 at Nottingham University Samworth Academy, Bilborough Adena Patrick, Year 4 at St Ann's Well Academy, St Ann's Aimee Bacon, Year 11 at Beckhampton Centre PRU, Bestwood See nottinghampost.com/pictures for a gallery of photos from the event.

Courageous youngsters honoured at Lord Mayor's Attendance Awards

East Midlands Ambulance Service is looking for a new chairperson to join its trust board.

The closing date for the position is 11am on July 31, with interviews being held in Birmingham on September 4.

Sue Noyes, Chief Executive of East Midlands Ambulance Service said: "The role of Chairperson is incredibly important in our service.

"We are in the process of turning things around at EMAS and continuing to see positive changes, all of which need to be supported by the Chairperson. Candidates need to bring expertise and demonstrate they have the ability to provide robust leadership.

"They will be responsible for leading our Better Patient Care programme and developing strategies to improve operational and clinical services."

Open sessions are being arranged in July for people who are interested in the role, giving candidates the opportunity to meet with Sue Noyes, Chief Executive and a representative from Nottinghamshire Healthwatch.

Nick Cook, the trusts Director of Workforce said: "We are looking for resilient people who have strong strategic leadership skills, a total focus on patient care, and who can inspire our staff to ever improving levels of performance."

The new chair will be paid £30,000 per year.

To register your interest or submit an application contact annmarie.drummond@nhs.net

Fire fighters from Retford and Tuxford attended a house fire in Jubilee Road, Ordsall.

The 999 call was made at around 8.20pm on Monday July 7 after a fire broke out in the kitchen of the property.

Three fire engines came to the scene at the two floor house where crews used six breathing apparatus and two hose reels.

Two thermal imaging cameras were also used.

Crews left the property at 9.28pm.

Fire crews attend kitchen fire in Ordsall

It's the social media 'experiment' that has been sending people crazy all over the world - and now Hidden Cash could come to Nottingham. The organisers of the game, which started in San Francisco, have said if there is enough support in individual cities, then they will bring their envelopes stuffed with cash there. Played entirely over Twitter, participants have to solve clues to discover where the money is hidden and if they find it first, the money is all theirs. Hidden Cash was started by American millionaire Jason Buzi, who started posting clues under the Twitter handle @HiddenCash in May. The first games sent residents of San Francisco into a frenzy as they hunted the envelopes. Since then, the search has taken place in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Houston. Hidden Cash also came to London at the end of June, when envelopes containing £100 in cash were hidden in Kensington Gardens. Now the game could come to Nottingham - if enough people want it to. The organisers said in a tweet: "We would love to go everywhere, but we just can't. We are a small group of people. So, we decided, since we cannot go everywhere, we are going to go where we are most wanted. "We want to make sure to go where there is the most excitement, so here is what we decided: If you want us to come to your city or country, please set up a fan page." The post added that fans need to set up a Twitter account with the handle @HCcome___ with the place name. For Nottingham, that would be @HCcomeNottm or @HCcomeNotts (user names are limited to 15 characters). Once the page has 1,000 followers, a tweet to @HiddenCash would need to be sent to let them know, and also an email to officialhiddencash@gmail.com. The organisers said they would then consider the request.

So awesome! We had so much fun today! @HiddenCash pic.twitter.com/cLQ5KNLhlO
— Shane Foster (@ShaneMFoster) July 8, 2014

"@justinpossible: @hiddencash_UK pic.twitter.com/KN3qEldId2" CONGRATULATIONS!!!
— Hidden Cash (@hiddencash_UK) June 3, 2014

Would you like to see 'Hidden Cash' come to Nottingham?

JOS Buttler has been called into the England squad as cover for wicket-keeper Matt Prior for the first Test against India starting in Nottingham tomorrow. Prior hurt his thigh while training at Trent Bridge yesterday but despite Lancashire's one-day international Buttler being called up, it is thought this is just a precaution. Speaking at his official press conference before the match, England captain Alastair Cook said: "We're 99 per cent sure that he'll be fine but we'll have a little check in the morning just to make sure. "But all things at the moment are looking good." Earlier, the England and Wales Cricket Board said: "Jos Buttler called into the England squad as cover for Matt Prior, who experienced some mild tightness in his right thigh yesterday. "... will continue to be assessed during training before a decision is made about his fitness for the 1st Investec Test."

MANSFIELD Town have added a friendly against Leeds United to their pre-season programme.

The Stags will host the Championship side on Tuesday, July 22, 7.45pm, with boss Dave Hockaday set to bring a strong squad to One Call Stadium.

Paul Cox's side play their first friendly on Saturday, when they host Notts County, and have home games against Aston Villa (Thursday, July 17) and Birmingham City (Saturday, July 19) before facing Leeds.

Tickets will go on sale to Mansfield supporters tomorrow morning from 10am at the One Call Stadium ticket office.

They are priced at £10 for adults and £5 for concessions (senior citizens, students and under-16s), with those aged six and under going in free.

Supporters can purchase tickets up until kick-off on the day of the match from both of the club's ticket offices.

The pre-season schedule also features trips to Grimsby Town (Friday, July 25) and Lincoln City (Thursday, July 29) and a home game against Walsall (Saturday, August 2).

Mansfield Town to face Leeds United in pre-season

IT has been confirmed that a cyclist who died following a city centre crash lived in Mapperley. Louise Wright was rushed to the Queen's Medical Centre with critical injuries but was pronounced dead in hospital on Thursday, July 3. The 29-year-old was involved in a rush hour collision with a Greene King lorry at roughly 8.30am at the junction of Lower Parliament Street and Pennyfoot Street. The junction was closed while the scene was examined and it re-opened at around 2pm. The HGV driver was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Cyclist who died after crash with lorry named as Mapperley resident

An MP is demanding an inquiry after claiming that Nottinghamshire County Council had routinely destroyed files into child sex abuse. John Mann says six constituents have come to him over the past year claiming they had been abused as children. When the MP looked into the cases, he says he was told by the council that the social services files had been destroyed. The Government has announced a major inquiry into child abuse after it was revealed that 114 Home Office files relating to claims of abuse had disappeared from Government records. Mr Mann said: "Six constituents this year have come to me all alleging child abuse against a number of different, unconnected alleged perpetrators. "No prosecutions were brought, despite them reporting the alleged abuse. I've found that in some cases, social services files have been destroyed by the county council. "The council said after a period of time they destroy their files. I find that unacceptable. On what basis? Who determines that policy to destroy the files? Why were they destroyed? "I do not see how the social services department can make a decision like that." Mr Mann raised the issue in the House of Commons on Monday, after Home Secretary Theresa May had announced the major inquiry into child sex abuse. He said: "This year in Bassetlaw, six people have come forward and made allegations of historical child abuse, but there have been no prosecutions, Nottinghamshire Police have lost files and Nottinghamshire social services have destroyed files. Will that be in the remit of one of these investigations now taking place?" Mrs May replied: "The whole point of the inquiry panel is to look at lessons learned as a result of these various reviews of historical allegations that have taken place. Obviously, I would expect it to be wide ranging in ensuring that it is indeed identifying all the lessons that need to be learned and the actions that need to be taken." Mr Mann told the Post he had also written to the CPS and police demanding his constituents' cases be reopened. He added: "I can't comment on any of the individual cases, but don't anyone try and tell me that if six people come forward, that they are all making it up. "I believe my constituents and I believe they are victims. "They want action and prosecutions – and they deserve action." Nottinghamshire County Council's service director for children's social care, Steve Edwards, said: "We are aware of the question that was raised in the House of Commons by John Mann MP. "We are contacting Mr Mann to seek further clarification about his comments relating to this matter. Until this point, we will not be able to provide any further comment. "We treat all allegations of abuse seriously whether current or historic and we will of course co-operate with any request for information." Nottinghamshire Police said they would also be making contact with Mr Mann to discuss his concerns. Last year the Post reported on the case of Michael Summers, who claimed he had been abused at care homes in Nottinghamshire. He had asked both Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council for the release of his files to help his case. But the records, kept by the county council on behalf of the city, were not found. The county council said there was a note on their records from 1978 saying the files had been destroyed.

Nottinghamshire MP claims county council has destroyed files relating to child sex abuse

Kitted out in face paint, glitter and ribbons, Nottingham Girls' High School pupils pulled out all the stops for their first whole-school sports day.

Eight hundred excited school girls descended on Nottingham Highfields Playing Fields, in University Boulevard, on Tuesday July 8 - turning it into a multi-coloured sea of flags and sports kit.

Pupils from four to 18 years of age took part in the sports day which included space hopper races, bean bag relays and a charity fun run.

The girls competed in their school houses, with the seniors part of either Luxton, Hastings, Bolton or Skeel and the juniors in either Newstead, Rufford, Clumber or Sherwood.

Head of Hastings' House Molly Ellis, 17, of East Bridgford found it challenging organising her team ahead of the event but was enjoying the atmosphere of the day.

She said: "The heads of the houses brought lots of face paint and ribbons with them, in their house colours, so that everyone could get involved even if they hadn't brought anything.

"It is great for the younger girls to interact with the older girls."

Families and friends cheered on the girls from the side-lines as they sat on blankets eating picnics and enjoying the sunshine.

Mum Ciara Renton, 42, of The Park said: "The atmosphere here is brilliant and really emphasises the importance of the houses - it gives them a real sense of belonging."

Senior school head teacher Susan Gorham said: "We usually go to Harvey Hadden for the sports days but as that is closed we thought this was a great opportunity to have our first whole-school event at the park.

"We may have our sports stars but this is an event we want everyone to enjoy.

"It is not about winning it is definitely about taking part."

Are you organising a sporting event? Get in touch: Newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

MORE than £350,000 has been donated to worthy causes that help others. BBC Children in Need has given the cash to six groups throughout the county. Nottingham charity Parents Association for Seriously Ill Children has received £75,000. The charity, based at the Queen's Medical Centre, currently helps more than 200 families with financial needs, social events and activities as well as emotional support. Chairman Simon Colburn said: "It is a huge amount of money to us because usually survive off £60,000 a year, so this gives us confidence to move forward. "It also gives us the opportunity to look at what we can do to move forward and we are now seeking a support worker and a new fundraising manager. "We will use some of the money to brighten some lives whether it is through a Christmas party or by providing a trip out. "My son had leukaemia and went through three years of chemotherapy so I know how vitally important it is to get support because it can be very isolating experience having an ill child." Rutland House School for Parents based in Sneinton Dale has be given £73,558 to help run a pre-school service for up to 60 children aged six months to five years with special needs. Development manager Shaun Hallam said: "The money will be used to help with the physical and emotional health of our children. "It is greatly needed because we rely on our own fundraising and it has provided us with a future for at least the next three years. "I haven't told the parents about the money yet but I am really looking forward to letting them know." In total £350,240 has been given to six groups and there are now 33 projects in Nottinghamshire that are supported by Children in Need to the value of £1,514,635. Regional manager Melinda Connelly from BBC Children in Need Central said: "We are delighted to award further funding to Nottingham to support projects like Parents Association for Seriously Ill Children. "These grants are only made possible thanks to the incredible support we get from fundraisers each year. "Organisations working with children and young people in Nottingham who would like to apply for funding in future rounds should visit the grants section on our website to find out more about our grant programmes." This week, BBC Children in Need announced the final total for its 2013 Appeal. Last year fundraisers across the UK helped raise a record-breaking £49.6m. Life President of the charity Sir Terry Wogan said: "Each year we're amazed by the generosity of the Great British public, it's just brilliant. 2013 was far from an easy year, but thanks to their ongoing support we've been fortunate enough to have another record-breaking total. "When we hosted the first televised appeal in 1980, we were delighted with the £1 million raised. I don't think any of us could have dreamed how far it would come."

BBC Children in Need gives £350,000 to six Nottingham causes

DEVASTATED doctor Steph Ball has appealed for help after her car was broken into, belongings strewn over the road and £150 of drinks intended for her friend's hen party stolen.

The 28-year-old Queen's Medical Centre doctor returned from the hospital after a 13-hour shift on Sunday and went to bed.

When she woke up at 7am her car had been trashed and belongings taken.

Now not only does she have to fork out £400 to fix the white Fiat 500 – which was broken into near her home in King Charles Street – but she has to replace all of the booze bought for her best friend's hen party this weekend. She had stowed it in her car boot because it was too heavy to carry up the stars to her flat.

Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, but Dr Ball has appealed for anyone who saw anything to come forward or the thieves to return the stolen drinks.

She said: "It was the worst thing to wake up to – I'm beginning to calm down now but I just felt like I have been violated.

"Everything was out in the street all over the floor, my clothes and paperwork and my boot ajar and the windows smashed.

"It's never happened to me before and I was really upset. It's going to cost me £550-odd and that is a considerable amount of my monthly income. That's going to really hit me.

"They don't seem to think about that at the time. It's not just me that's been affected – a lot of people were counting on me to provide for the hen do. It's a bit like Christmas when someone has come and stolen all of your presents.

"Please come forward," she added. "It's not covered by CCTV so if anyone has seen anything please contact the police."

The incident has had a knock-on effect for Dr Ball's friends too – as she had bought sparkling wine and bottles of spirits and left them in the boot. She said: "I was pretty aghast and shocked but the worst thing was that £150 of alcohol was stolen from the boot.

"I am maid of honour to my best friend Rose, and have been organising her hen do for this weekend in Stratford-Avon. It's all gone and I was so keen to make sure everyone has a good time this weekend." I'd collected in money from all the girls going to pay for all of this and will have to replace it out my own pocket or face having a very dry hen party."

A spokeswoman for Notts police said: "It looks like the incident happened between 11pm on Sunday and 7am on Monday.

"The passenger and rear passenger windows were smashed and alcohol stolen from within. If anyone did see anything or has any information please come forward. The incident number is 96 of July 7."

Police say they are continuing to investigate and would review CCTV in the area.

Have you been the victim of a crime? Let us know at newsdesk@nottinghampost.com

Devastated doctor appeals for help after car is broken into and belongings stolen

Mother-of-two Chantelle Thompson collapsed outside court as she was spared jail for a horrific glass attack in Nottingham.

Thompson, 31, of Bracken Close, Bilborough, could have gone to prison after she left a woman scarred for life after the assault in a Nottingham bar.

She had been with friends in Escucha, Fletcher Gate, when violence flared, Nottingham Crown Court heard on July 8.

Suddenly it was like a "nuclear explosion" as other people got involved, said Judge Gregory Dickinson, who sentenced Thompson for the horrific glass attack.

Someone was punched in the face and the fracas spilled onto the street on March 16 last year.

Thompson had stood back when the violence started but then struck victim Joy Dixon in the face with the glass.

Ms Dixon had a cut to her chin which needed stitches.

Thompson was arrested and denied wounding but was found guilty unanimously by a jury.

Judge Dickinson told her: "It can hardly be said it is a tragedy to see you in court to be sentenced – a mum with no previous convictions with a good work record. People speak highly of you in references.

"The jury unanimously were sure you hit Joy Dixon in the face with the glass and left her with a scar.

"There is a scar there. She will see that every morning when she looks at herself in the mirror."

He decided to suspend her sentence of nine months in prison for 12 months and imposed a two-month curfew between the hours of 9pm and 7am.

Thompson, who earns £645 and has two young children, was ordered to pay £300 toward prosecution costs and a victim surcharge.

Judge Dickinson told her the sentence was suspended because she was of previous good character.

"You have given so much of yourself to help and support other people and I don't want to deprive other people of that.

"I think it is highly unlikely you will trouble the court again."

PC Stephen Farrell, of Radford Road Police Station, said afterwards: "This was a nasty assault where the victim will suffer a reminder of that night every time she looks in a mirror. Had the glass hit her eye she could have been blinded.

"Thompson's excuse was that she was drunk that night and that she would never have behaved in that way had she been sober. But being so drunk that you don't remember your actions did not wash with the court and she was convicted of GBH.

"I hope this serves as a warning for others who drink to excess. Nottinghamshire Police will seek to prosecute those who commit violence in our towns and cities."

The Force's Alliance Against Violence campaign was launched in October last year aiming to help reduce violent crime. It encourages members of the public and partner agencies to sign up to the Nottinghamshire Alliance Against Violence Facebook page and be accountable for their own actions when out socialising.

Mum spared jail after glassing woman in Escucha bar

The former factory of one of the county's greatest philanthropists has been regenerated by a team of Nottingham artists. In 2012 the Backlit gallery was set up on the first floor of a former textile factory owned by Victorian businessmen, Samuel Morley, in Ashley, Sneinton. Now artists have been able to move into and restore the second floor of the building, opening up more space for exhibitions and other events. To mark the occasion they are holding an exhibition inspired in part by its previous owner's life and work. Morley, born in 1809, took over the factory in the mid 19th century and was remembered for tirelessly campaigning to protect and improve the working conditions of his employees. The name of the exhibition at Backlit, House of the Flying Wheel, is based on the name of the giant loom that was used to create textiles in the building. The show reflects on Samuel Morley's work in Nottingham, with several artists contributing work based around his legacy. Backlit director Matthew Chesney said there was a still great deal that could be learnt from the building's previous owner. He said: "Samuel Morley deserves to be remembered and revered to inspire a new generation of people. "It opens debates that are just as applicable today as in the 19th century. House of the Flying Wheel acknowledges the history of the building and, in the long term, Backlit will continue Mr Morley's legacy in Nottingham." The second floor was reopened last week following a five-week refurbishment programme which cost the gallery around £5,000. Taking over from its previous owners, a boxing academy, the space has now been completely stripped back to expose the building's original Victorian brickwork. Mr Chesney hopes that, with further fundraising, the gallery could become a learning centre to educate others about Morley's legacy. He said: "I think the reason he may not have been well remembered was that was that he was a very humble man – he once rejected a peerage from Queen Victoria. He didn't want to be seen as above the people – he was more about giving than being recognised." Backlit marketing manager Rhiannon Jones added: "The new expansion is going to be a really exciting place for events, talks and performances that we're working on already." House of the Flying Wheel continues until September 7. Which Nottingham icons deserve more recognition? Email opinion@nottinghampost.com

Sneinton artists pay tribute to historical Nottinghamshire icon

TOTTENHAM are said to be ready to join the race to sign Nottingham Forest's Jamaal Lascelles, by formally registering a £5m bid for the defender.
QPR have already had a £4m offer for the 20-year-old rejected by the City Ground club.
But now their London rivals are reportedly preparing to up the ante by making a bid of their own.
And they could attempt to entice Forest into doing business by offering to loan the England under-20 international back to the Reds this coming season.
New Forest boss Stuart Pearce has voiced his determination to hold on to the club's best young players.
And their resolve is unlikely to waver unless any club offers a significantly improved package, almost certainly well beyond the £5m mark.
In the meantime, newly relegated Fulham are understood to have paid as much as £11m to sign Leeds forward – and former Forest transfer target – Ross McCormack.
United owner Massimo Cellino has defended the sale of the player, insisting he was "disrespected" by the Scotland man.
The sale of the 27-year-old went through just weeks after the club's Italian owner had pledged that McCormack was not for sale. But Leeds' 29-goal top scorer was allowed to move after requesting a transfer.
Cellino said: "I like to be in control of situations but it felt like he wasn't my player. I was disrespected, he was aggressive with me.
"He's a bloody good player and I'm not going to pretend that he isn't but he didn't respect me and it wasn't possible to keep him."
McCormack has signed a four-year contract with Fulham, who will be looking to bounce back into the Premier League at the first attempt.
Former Forest defender Brendan Moloney has made the switch from Bristol City to Yeovil Town, on a free transfer.
The 25-year-old Irishman has signed a two year deal with the Glovers.

Transfer gossip: Spurs poised to up the ante in race for Nottingham Forest defender Jamaal Lascelles

INDIA lost their world-beating Test status to England in a 4-0 whitewash in 2011, and the same opponents defeated them on home soil too for the first time in a generation a year later.

It is a significant understatement, however, to note that much has changed since then.

Alastair Cook, for starters, was a force each time beyond which India could not progress.

Three years ago, under the captaincy of Andrew Strauss, Cook compiled a career-best 294 as England piled up 710 for seven declared in an Edgbaston victory which put them 3-0 up and deposed a fading India at the top of the International Cricket Council rankings.

Fifteen months later, Cook again – on his first assignment as captain, as well as senior opener – was the key figure.

Three big hundreds in four innings, the last making him England's all-time most prolific Test centurion, began with a statement of defiance that the 2012/13 tourists had some fight.

Then after defeat in Ahmedabad, Cook and Kevin Pietersen turned the tide in Mumbai before the captain consolidated in Kolkata – where he was run out for the first time in his career, having made 190.

After leading England to their first Test series win in India since 1984/85 it seemed Cook could do no wrong.

Yet when the return fixture starts at Trent Bridge today, the 29-year-old will be under maximum pressure to silence the doubters.

He has done so previously, to famous effect.

Four years ago, many depicted a career-saving century against Pakistan at The Oval – before an Ashes winter in which a prolific Cook rewrote a raft of records with nearly 800 runs in seven innings as England won in Australia for the first time in almost a quarter-of-a-century.

There have been highs, notably in India of course, in the intervening years – but precious few of late.

So it is that Cook will begin a series of five Tests back-to-back with everything to prove all over again. The questions are many, and resonant, from those with an agenda.

Is he an effective Test captain after all? Will he ever add to his record 25 Test centuries, having gone 24 innings and more than a year without one? Is the pressure of leadership adversely affecting his batting – and, of course, vice-versa?

Cook knows better than anyone there is only one way to halt the animated debate.

He knows too that he has managed to do so before, made a habit of it even.

This, though, is not a problem in one dimension. There are aggravating tangents around the vicious circle.

Pietersen is the prime example, his controversial axing after England's Ashes whitewash under Cook last winter having had contrasting consequences already.

It helped to cleared the decks, as England's new management presumably intended, putting distance between old and new.

It also raised the stakes of success or failure for the incumbents.

For better or worse, instead of a headline participant, Pietersen is cast as witness – hostile or otherwise – via his national newspaper column, and social media, to everything that happens under the watch of Cook and returning coach Peter Moores.

England's Test cricketers, still at the start of their much-discussed 'new era', have rarely been more squarely under the microscope – and Cook is centre screen in everything he does.

The age of media dissection is stifling, Cook's every move as captain and opener played to millions over and over again alongside expert analysis.

He will not be the only one, though. 'Welcome to my world', his opposite number Mahendra Singh Dhoni might well say.

The India captain – and wicketkeeper, and batsman – may be the highest-paid cricketer in history. But he shells out a heavy price too, in a different currency, as a billion hopes rest on his shoulders.

India cricket supporters do not take kindly to disappointment either.

As Dhoni and India's former England coach Duncan Fletcher – a rare constant from 2011 – try to facilitate their own new era, like Cook they can expect no breathing space.

There is no change there, perhaps, for Dhoni – except that the superstar retirements of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman mean India, like England, remain in a state of transition.

They have achieved post-Tendulkar already in this country, in last summer's Champions Trophy – and foundered too, both with and then in the waning of their golden, evergreen generation in those 2011 and 2012 Test defeats against England.

This summer, England and India will contest their first five-match series since David Gower's tourists beat Sunil Gavaskar's hosts 30 years ago.

There will be no shortage of sub-plots on either side.

Is England's linchpin seamer James Anderson still the force of old, for example? Can the hosts' new breed cut it? Will India's powerhouse middle order prove all it is cracked up to be in alien conditions? Do the tourists have an effective bowling attack?

But the two captains have the most by far to win and lose.

England v India 2014: Overview of a Test series full of sub-plots for Alastair Cook and MS Dhoni