THESE are the faces of Nottingham's most wanted men.

All six are being hunted by police in connection with unsolved crimes – including a violent stabbing, a robbery and a series of burglaries.

Police are desperate to track them down – but need your help to do it.

Detective chief superintendent Helen Jebb, head of crime and justice at Nottinghamshire Police, said: "These are people we want to talk to in relation to some serious matters.

"We believe they may have some involvement in these offences – that's why it's important we find them and give them the opportunity to talk to us.

"We've already carried out extensive enquiries but now we need the public's help.

"If you know them, or know of their whereabouts, we would like you to contact us and help us track them down."

The wanted men are:

Jordan Grant, 21, last known address of Harvey Road, Nottingham. He is wanted in connection with an assault on August 2, 2014 in Alfreton Road where the victim, a 16-year-old boy, suffered multiple stab wounds.

Jan Siwak, 31, previously of Windermere Road, Forest Fields.

Police want to speak to him in connection with a number of burglaries between June 2013 and June 2014.

William Dunbar, 29, last known address Villa Street, Beeston.

He is wanted in connection with a robbery on November 28, at Trent Road in Sneinton, where a black BMW 1 series was stolen.

Simon Bradshaw, 34, of Withern Road, Broxtowe.

He is wanted for failing to appear at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on March 28 and April 10, charged with threatening behaviour.

Officers also want to speak to him about a public order incident at Huxley Close, Bilborough, on June 14.

Delroy Gayle, 45, of Broadwood Road, Bestwood.

He is wanted in connection with a theft from Game, in Front Street, Arnold, on November 6.

Craig Wesley Smith, 33, of Beckley Road, Broxtowe.

He is wanted in connection with a theft offence on November 26 at the Premier Inn Hotel, in Cinderhill.

Call police with any information on 101 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Here is the definitive list of church services being held on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:

NORTON CUCKNEY

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 5.30pm.

First Communion of Christmas, 11.15pm.

St Winifred's

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 11.30am.

ORDSALL

All Hallows

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 4pm.

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Service 10.15am.

SHIREOAKS

St Luke's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 5.30pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 11am.

WORKSOP

Christ Church

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 4pm.

Midnight Communion, 11pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 10am.

MANSFIELD

BLIDWORTH & RAINWORTH

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Christingle service, 4pm

Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

St Simon & St Jude's

Christmas Eve Christingle Service, 4pm.

Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 10am.

LADYBROOK

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Meet the Donkey in the Square before walking to St Mary's for 4pm Crib Service, 3.30pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 9am.

MANSFIELD

St Augustine's

Christmas Eve Crib service, 4pm.

Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

St John's

Christmas Eve Christingle Service, 6pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day All Age Christmas Day Service, 10am.

PLEASLEY HILL

St Barnabas'

Christmas Eve Carols around the Piano with Tree of Memories, 6pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 10am.

NEWARK & SOUTHWELL

CODDINGTON

All Saints'

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

COTHAM

St Michael's

Christmas Eve Eucharist, 8pm.

FARNDON

St Peter's

Christmas Eve Christingle, 4pm.

Christmas Eve Eucharist, 10am.

NEWARK

St Leonard's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 5pm.

Christmas Day Family Christmas Communion - bring your favourite Christmas Present, 10am.

GREASLEY

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 5pm.

Service of Holy Communion 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Service of Holy Communion,10am.

HUCKNALL

St Peter's

Christmas Eve 'Almost' Midnight Mass, all welcome, 10.30pm.

Christmas Day Christmas Eucharist, all welcome, 10am.

HUTHWAITE

All Saints

Christmas Eve Midnight Holy Communion by Candlelight, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Christmas Family Communion. Come and celebrate the Birth of Jesus bring your favourite present, 10am.

JACKSDALE

St Mary's

Christmas Day All Age Communion service followed by a festive drink and nibbles,10am.

January 4 Messy Church Epiphany party – all welcome. Tea included – free event, 4-6pm .

LINBY

St Michael's

Christmas Day Family Service followed by a shortened form of Holy Communion, 10am.

PAPPLEWICK

St James'

Christmas Eve Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion (said), 8am.

SELSTON

St Helen's

Christmas Eve Crib Service. Children may come dressed as wise people, shepherds or angels, 4pm.

Midnight Communion (First Holy Communion of Christmas), 11.30pm.

SKEGBY

St Andrew's

Christmas Eve All-Age Nativity Service, 6.30pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion Service, 10.30am.

STANTON HILL

All Saints

Christmas Day Family Communion Service, 10.30am.

SUTTON-IN-ASHFIELD

New Cross Community Church

Christmas Eve Crib Service 4pm for all the family.

Christmas Day Communion Service 11am.

Outreach section On Christmas Day we also host Christmas Dinner for residents in the New Cross area who will be by themselves on Christmas Day but numbers are limited due to the size of the hall and the amount of volunteers we have to prepare dinner. However, if anyone would like further information they can contact our office on 01623 515540.

TEVERSAL

St Katherine's

Christmas Eve All-Age Nativity Service, 4pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion Service, 9.30am.

EAST BINGHAM

BARNSTONE

St Mary

Christmas Eve Family friendly Christmas Holy Communion, 8pm.

BUNNY

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

CAR COLSTON

St Mary's

Christmas Day Festival Eucharist, 10am.

COLSTON BASSETT

St John the Divine

Christmas Eve Christmas Holy Communion, 8pm.

CROPWELL BISHOP

St Giles

Christmas Eve Crib service: Come dressed as a character from the Nativity story; for children and the young at heart, 3.30pm.

Carols by candlelight with Cropwell Bishop Choir, 6pm.

Christmas Day All-Age Holy Communion for Christmas Day; bring one of your presents with you to show us, 10am.

EAST BRIDGFORD

St Peter's

Christmas Eve Holy Communion (BCP), 10am.

Christmas Eve Christingle for Christmas, 3pm.

Christingle for Christmas, 6pm.

Midnight Mass, 11pm.

Christmas Day Festival Eucharist, 10am.

ELTON-ON-THE-HILL

St Michael and All Angels

Christmas Day Family friendly Holy Communion (BCP) for Christmas, 8.30am.

FLINTHAM

St Augustine's

Christmas Day Holy Communion (BCP), 9am.

GRANBY

All Saints

Christmas Eve Christmas Holy Communion (BCP), 10pm.

KEYWORTH

St Mary's

Share the Light, 6.30pm.

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 2.30pm.

Lessons & Carols, 7.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 11am.

RADCLIFFE-ON-TRENT & ECUMENICAL

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Family Carol Service with nativity, 4.30pm.

Midnight Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 9am.

All Age Christmas Morning Service (followed by Holy Communion for anyone who would like to stay on), 10.30am.

Christmas Lunch. Each Christmas Day, St Mary's hosts a lunch in the Church Hall between 12.30 and 3.30pm. This Christmas celebration, funded by donations and staffed by a team of volunteers, is open to Radcliffe residents who would otherwise be alone. Past guests receive an automatic invitation, but we are very happy to welcome new friends. If you, or someone you know, would like to receive an invitation, or would like to help on the team, or would like to know more, then please phone St Mary's Church Office on 0115 8451656.

SHELFORD

St Peter & St Paul's

Christmas Eve Christingle and Nativity Service, 5pm.

Midnight Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

STANTON

All Saints'

Christmas Day Family Communion, 9.30am.

TOLLERTON

St Peter's

Christmas Eve Special children's service and Christingle with collection going to the Children's Society. Everyone welcome to make the christingles and then see them light up the church, 4pm.

Christmas Day Family communion and carols, everyone welcome, 10am.

TYTHBY

Holy Trinity

Christmas Eve Christmas Holy Communion, 10pm.

GEDLING

BURTON JOYCE WITH BULCOTE & STOKE BARDOLPH

St Helen's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, dressing up as shepherds angels, Josephs and Marys – or anyone else in the story would be great, 4pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family/All Age Communion, party poppers included, 10.30am.

Holy Trinity

Christmas Day Holy Communion using the BCP, 9am.

St Luke's

Christmas Eve

Christmas Communion, 7pm.

CALVERTON

St Wilfrid's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 6pm.

Christmas Eve Midnight Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Services at 8.30am and 10.30am.

CARLTON

St John's

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Joint Service with St John's Colwick, 9.30am.

CAYTHORPE

St Aidan's

Christmas Eve Family Carols with mulled wine and mince pies, 6pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 8am.

DAYBROOK

St Paul's

Christmas Eve Christingle for Children and Families, 5.30pm.

Midnight Mass,11.30pm.

Christmas Day Parish Communion for Christmas, 9.30am.

COLWICK

St John's

Christmas Eve Christingle Mass, 6pm.

GEDLING

All Hallows

Christmas Eve Church Open: 9-11am, 5pm A Crib Service for Families, 11.30pm The First Communion of Christmas.

Christmas Day Holy Communion (BCP) & carols, 8am, Family Christmas Communion, 9.30am.

LOWDHAM

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 4pm.

Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day All-age Service, 10.30am.

NETHERFIELD

St George's

Christmas Eve Traditional Midnight Mass with Carols, 11pm.

WOODTHORPE

St Mark's

Christmas Eve Christingle – join us as we gather around the crib, 3.30pm & 5.30pm.

Midnight Service, welcome in Christmas Day with a traditional service, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Celebration, a great way for all the family to remember who Christmas is all about and celebrate Jesus' birthday, 10.30am.

NOTTINGHAM NORTH

BESTWOOD

St Mark's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 6.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 10.30am.

Emmanuel

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 5.30pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 10.30am.

BULWELL

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Crib Service suitable for all ages, 4pm.

Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day All-age Eucharist, 10am.

WOLLATON

St Leonard's

Christmas Eve A Christmas service for young children and their families, 3pm.

Carols by Candlelight with the Music Group, 5.30pm.

Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight with the Choir, 8pm.

Midnight Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion (Prayer Book), 8.30am.

Parish Communion, 10am.

WOLLATON PARK

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Christmas Celebration, 10.30am.

SHERWOOD

St Martin's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, children are invited to come dressed as shepherds, angels & wise people, 4pm.

1st Communion of Christmas, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 8.30am.

Family Communion, 10am.

NOTTINGHAM SOUTH

ATTENBOROUGH

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Crib Service, 4.30pm

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 8am.

Morning Service for all, 10am.

Short service of Holy Communion, 11.30am.

BEESTON

St John's

Christmas Eve Nativity and Christingle, children welcome, 4.30pm.

Midnight Mass, 11.15pm.

Christmas Day Parish Family Celebration,10am.

HYSON GREEN

St Stephen's with St Paul's

Christmas Day Family Communion, 10.30am.

INHAM NOOK

St Barnabas

Christmas Eve Holy Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 10.30am.

Nottingham All Saints', St Mary & St Peter

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Nine Lessons and Carols (by candlelight), 7pm.

Christmas Day Sung Eucharist, 10.45am.

St Peter's

Christmas Eve Family Carol Service, 4pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Sung Eucharist, 10am.

All Saints'

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Holy Communion, 10.30am.

NOTTINGHAM

St Jude's

Christmas Eve "Come to the Stable" Nativity Service (costumes / fancy dress welcome), 3pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.15pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion, 10.30am.

St Nic's

Christmas Day Christmas Communion, 10am.

SNEINTON

St Cyprian's

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Mass, 10am.

STAPLEFORD

St Helen's

Christmas Eve Crib & Christingle service, 4pm.

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion, 11pm.

Christmas Day Service, 10am.

St Luke's

Christmas Day Service, 10am.

WEST BINGHAM

EAST LEAKE, WEST LEAKE, STANFORD-ON-SOAR, REMPSTONE & COSTOCK

St Giles'

Christmas Eve 'Midnight' Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Christmas Family Service, 11am.

St Mary's

Christmas Eve Carols at the Crib (a service for the very young), 3pm.

Christmas Eve Family Carol Service, 4.30pm.

Traditional Carol Service, 7.30pm.

'Midnight' Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Communion (CW), 10am.

All Saints

Christmas Eve Christingle Service, 3pm.

Christmas Eve Nine Lessons and Carols, 6pm.

St John's

Christmas Day Christmas Family Service, 10.45am.

St Helena's

Christmas Day Holy Communion (BCP), 10am.

SUTTON BONINGTON WITH NORMANTON-ON-SOAR

St Anne's

Christmas Eve Blessing the Crib, the Olivewood Crib figures are put into the stable. 4pm.

Midnight Communion, the collection will be given to 'Framework Housing Association'. 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Family Service, the collection will be given to 'Shelter', 11am.

GAMSTON

St Luke's

Christmas Eve Christingle, 3pm.

Christingle, 5pm.

Midnight Communion, 11.15pm.

Christmas Day Christmas Day Service, Family communion, 10.15am.

WEST BRIDGFORD

St Giles'

Christmas Eve The Nativity, 4pm.

Communion, 11.30pm.

Christmas Day Christmas Day Celebration, 10am.

WILFORD

St Wilfrid's

Christmas Eve "Crib Service" Bring the family to place the figures in the Crib scene as we think about the events of the first Christmas, 5pm.

"Midnight Mass" – a traditional way to start Christmas with a Communion service and carols, 11.30pm.

WILFORD HILL

St Paul's

Christmas Eve Christingle services, 2.30pm & 4pm.

Christmas Eve Midnight Communion service, 11.15pm.

Christmas Day All Age Communion service, 10.30am.

Shoppers' appetite for British craftsmanship has seen DFS' upholstery factory in Long Eaton ramp up production by more than 13 per cent on last year.

The company expects to make 12,000 pieces of upholstered furniture during November and December at its factory in Forbes Close, where 152 people are employed.

Factory manager Matt Gill said: "As the demand for our sofas increases in the run up to Christmas, our factory is at its most productive.

"It is an extremely busy time of year for us and there is a real sense of exhilaration among the team knowing we are helping to make Christmas more comfortable for our customers.

"I'm lucky enough to oversee a very skilled workforce made up of craftsmen and women who are passionate about making sofas of the upmost quality. In fact, production is increasing year on year by about 13 per cent so we're always on the look out for talented people to join our team.

"We have a wealth of experience here at Berkeley Magna and we're all very proud of the fact that we are helping to keep upholstered furniture manufacturing alive and well right here in Nottinghamshire."

DFS Chief Executive Officer Ian Filby said: "The run up to Christmas is always a hugely exciting time in our business; our manufacturing and delivery teams relish the fact they are making Christmas more comfortable for thousands of people. We're proud of our 45 year heritage in manufacturing and it's fair to say that at this time of year our fabric cutters, seamstresses and upholsterers need to draw on their decades of experience to ensure we are well placed to meet the demand for quality sofas that are handcrafted here in the UK.
"Our position as the UK market leader in upholstered furniture is in large part built on our commitment to British manufacturing. Our long-term investment in traditional manufacturing skill sets us apart from the competition and leaves us uniquely positioned to meet consumers' demand for value for money without compromising on style and quality." 

Drivers and bus passengers faced delays after a crash on a busy Nottingham road.

Nottinghamshire Police were called to a crash, involving one car, in Manvers Street at around 5pm on December 22.

The force would not confirm how the car had crashed but said traffic was moving by 5.30pm.

Nottingham City Transport's Red and Lilac services were also delayed as a result of the crash.

RTC on Manvers St causing blockages in both directions. Expect some delays

— NottinghamTravelwise (@NottmTravelwise) December 22, 2014

There has been an RTC on Manvers Street (road behind our main depot) which is likely to cause delays to Lilac 25, 27; Red 43, 44; 100, C2.

— Nottm City Transport (@NCT_Buses) December 22, 2014

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Schools' Under 16 representative squad made a winning start to their Midland Counties League matches when they defeated Humberside 4-2 at Collingham.

The competition is organised in two Leagues, West and East, with the two top teams in each group going through to knockout semi-finals.

The first 30 minutes saw Notts often under pressure, but with Will Skillington (Arnold Hill), Jordan Stewart (Carlton-le-Willows) and Sop Ubah (Nottingham Academy) resolute in defence they restricted the visitors to few chances.

The Humberside pressure was rewarded, however, in the 30th minute when an attack down the right was brought to an abrupt end by the Notts keeper Keaton Sharpe (Christ the King), who conceded a penalty and received a booking.

Humberside made no mistake from the spot, but to their credit Notts battled back and drew level just before half-time when Kieron Harrison let fly from 25 yards and found the top corner of the net.

Making an improved start to the second half, they took the lead in the 50th minute with a rather bizarre goal.

A free-kick from the left was headed goalwards by Pierce Bird(Nottingham Academy), but the strong wind which affected the whole match blew the ball back towards him and he dispatched it into the net with his second attempt.

There was then a lengthy delay when Notts keeper Zac Simpson (Brunts), who had replaced Sharpe at the break, was injured making a brave save at the foot of the post and Sharpe resumed in goal.

Humberside were still well in the game and drew level following a clever one-two inside the area which concluded when the ball was slipped under the advancing keeper.

Nottinghamshire were not to be denied and eight minutes from time Curtis Millward (Carlton-le-Willows), who had an impressive second half, latched onto a through ball and deftly lobbed the keeper from just inside the area to make the score 3-2.

Notts then clinched their victory in the dying minutes when a header from a corner was blocked but forced over the line by Jack Pollock.

Nottinghamshire's will now face Lincolnshire and Derbyshire in the Spring term in their bid to reach the semi-finals.

Nottingham Academy (pictured) will represent Nottingham in the East Midlands Finals of the English Schools' FA Munich Trophies Under 12 5-a-side tournament in late January.

They qualified for this stage by winning the Nottingham Schools' Under 12 Boys' 5-a-side tournament in the past term.

Nottingham's representatives in the girls' section will be Bluecoat Academy, who won the City Under 12 girls' event.

CHILDREN who face spending Christmas in hospital were given a boost - as Notts County stars turned up bearing festive gifts.

Thirteen first team players - accompanied by manager Shaun Derry, assistant manager Greg Abbott and chief executive Jim Rodwell - visited Nottingham Children's Hospital at Queen's Medical Centre on Monday, December 22.

They handed out presents, including selection boxes, toys and official club towels.

More than 500 gifts were donated by fans and club representatives for a biannual appeal led by lifelong supporter Rob Bristol.

Magpies fan Brandon Woodhouse, 14, from Top Valley, has been in hospital with severe appendicitis since Wednesday last week <17/12> and expects to remain there over Christmas.

He met several stars, including Taylor McKenzie, Liam Noble and Mustapha Dumbuya.

Brandon said: "It's a bit upsetting that I can't be with the whole family for Christmas but I'll have some people here.

"Seeing the players was a nice surprise and made me feel better."

Basford resident Tyler Lewis, has been in hospital since having his large intestine removed on December 3 but hopes to be out for Christmas.

The 15-year-old, who supports both County and Forest, said: "I was looking forward to it and it cheered me up."

Nathan-Ellis Ward, five, from Arnold, said: "I enjoyed meeting the players – it was nice of them to come."

Centre-back Taylor McKenzie, 20, said: "Sometimes players moan that we're in over Christmas but while we're playing football, some of these kids aren't even able to get out of hospital.

"It was quite emotional and a real eye-opener. Hopefully we can make their days a little bit easier and give them a bit of a lift."

Derry said the players were happy to take time out of their busy Christmas schedule.

He added: "It hits the players when they come to places like this and it's a really important part of the year for them.

"When you think of how many people are going to spend their Christmas in hospitals it puts things into perspective and allows them to see real life situations."

Season ticket holder Mr Bristol, 53, started the appeal - which also runs at Easter - in 2004 with his daughter Hayley Bristol, 25.

He will also hand out presents to children at Kingsmill Hospital, Caudwell House Children's Community Home, Beaumond House Community Hospice and John Eastwood Hospice.

Mr Bristol said: "We started it when the club was facing extinction and we wanted to help build the club's stature in the community and cheer up the kids in the wards.

"Every year we seem to get more and more donations. It brings a little bit of happiness when they're in an alien place."

A VOLUNTEER parent who goes "above and beyond" has earned the children's centre where she takes her son recognition in a local awards scheme.

The Pride of Gedling Awards, launched by The Nottingham Post and Gedling Borough Council, are celebrating the efforts of hard-working people who make a difference every day in the borough.

Netherfield's branch of the Nottinghamshire Children and Families Partnership is in the running for the Outstanding Community Project award.

Among the volunteers is Emma Waters, who offers her time, as well as taking her seven-year-old son Oliver there; he has autism and ADHD.

"I'm a single parent so it's just the two of us, but luckily I have very supportive parents," said Emma, of Curzon Street. "Between the three of us we do what we can. He's the best handful you'll ever have and I wouldn't change it for the world.

"With Oliver we had to have a lot of support to get him into special needs schools and things like that, so this is my way of giving back.

"I cannot work because my son needs so much care, but when he's at school it's my opportunity to help. I don't like not doing anything. I like to see what I can do and be able to give back. I've been brought up to be like that."

Trainee nurse Emma, 26, also sits on the parents forum and volunteers for a stay and play session, which is like a toddler group. She also does admin work in the office.

"It takes up a lot of my time," she said. "But I also volunteer for another charity for children with extra needs.

"I don't think I do any more than anyone else would do in the situation.

"I love seeing the kids' faces when they do things. We've just had a Christmas party and the kids loved it."

Amanda Williamson, who organises the volunteers at the Victoria Road centre, as well as the Carlton and Standhill branches, said Emma stands out among many volunteers.

"All the volunteers at the centre are amazing," she said. "But Emma goes above and beyond. She is always so positive and nothing is ever too much.

"Emma has spent her own time with other families who have children with extra needs to help through the problems she has already faced first hand.

"She's already a very busy mum and lights up the place. We couldn't ask her for any more."

Gedling Borough Council leader John Clarke said: "I know Emma and she is well worthy of recognition. Emma, and all the other volunteers, are absolute pillars of society.

"Volunteering all this hard work despite managing problems of their own is unbelievable."

A jealous ex-partner has been jailed after his former girlfriend broke her heels when she jumped from his clutches through a first-floor window.

Damian Ward was responsible for inflicting grievous bodily harm – because the woman was escaping from him at the time she was injured.

She was seen to fall past the living room window by her sister and two-year-old child, landing in agony.

Judge James Sampson locked up Ward, 25, of Amesbury Circus, Aspley, on Monday for 18 months after admitting causing GBH.

The court heard he had turned up uninvited at his former partner's home on October 9 and pushed his way past her as she opened the door to put out rubbish.

"You were obviously in some sort of jealous rage," Judge Sampson told him.

"You threatened to bleach clothing and pushed her sister in her chest and face."

Ward wanted to examine his ex-partner's mobile phone because he was suspicious of her, the court was told.

"In fact, it was none of your business what she was doing in respect of her phone," the judge told Ward.

"You terrified her. You wanted her to get her phone. There was an element of control here. She locked herself in the bathroom in order to escape you.

"You kicked the door down. That caused her to jump from a first-floor window, causing fractures to both heels, and that has left her wheelchair bound and unable to walk.

"I accept you did not intend such severe injuries but injuries were caused and they have caused her considerable loss of amenity."

Dawn Pritchard, prosecuting, said the woman, who also has a five-year-old, cannot take her children to school or drive and has had to use a wheelchair and crutches.

A doctor described her injuries as "severe", requiring surgery and physiotherapy.

Ward told police when arrested: "I didn't mean for this to happen. All I wanted was to look at her phone."

He was given one-month concurrent sentences after he entered guilty pleas to causing criminal damage to his ex-partner's toilet door and assaulting her sister.

Andrew Wesley, mitigating, said Ward did not know whether there was a future for the relationship.

"He accepted that, in principle, it was his behaviour that caused her to jump and he was responsible. His deepest regret is how he has let his family down."

FEARS over clogged roads and a lack of low cost housing failed to stop plans for 13,500 new homes in Rushcliffe to be voted through.

The borough – recently voted the eighth best place in the country to live – has approved its Local Plan to build the homes by 2028.

A full council meeting on December 22 at a packed council chamber in Pavilion Road saw 32 councillors vote in favour of the plans, which have taken eight years to develop, while three rejected the proposals and one abstained.

"Once these properties are built the A52 will be a car park during the day," said Musters representative Rod Jones, who voted against proposals. "Adding more junctions to the A52 will not solve the problems that this many more houses will bring."

Councillor Alistair MacInnes, said more needed to be done to ensure young people are not priced out of the housing market.

"The average house in Rushcliffe costs £235,000," he said. "Which is eight times more than average earnings. I am disappointed the inspector did not take the opportunity to make a larger proportion of the properties affordable."

Rushcliffe is tasked by the Government with finding space for 13,500 homes by 2028. It's plan includes 450 homes at the former Cotgrave Colliery and 500 at the former RAF Newton site.

It's "strategic sites" also include 3,000 homes on land south of Clifton, a further 1,500 on land near Melton Road in Edwalton and 2,500 homes east of Gamston.

The authority produced its own plan, separate to the 30,550-home Aligned Core Strategy by its neighbouring authorities of Nottingham city, Broxtowe and Gedling.

It has the backing of Government planning inspector Jill Kingaby.

A number of councillors said voting for the plans was difficult as it will see the end of much-loved green space.

But they felt that not submitting the Local Plan would leave them unable to play a pivotal role in choosing which sites were built on.

In his opening speech, council leader Neil Clarke quoted Clive Betts MP, chairman of the Communities and Local Government select committee, who recently said: "Councils must do more to protect their communities against the threat of undesirable development."

Councillor Clarke said: "We have had to make some very difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions along the way. We all have a responsibility to the whole of our borough and it is therefore upon our shoulders, as community leaders, to adopt the plan."

More than 30 members of the public attended the meeting, including Hazel Salisbury, from action group TABU (Tollerton Against Backdoor Urbanisation). She said the meeting should have waited until the next council meeting in March.

"Parish councils like Calverton are challenging the number of houses that they have to built. The decision is due on February 19th and if they are successful the numbers in Rushcliffe will change. I don't see why they needed to rush these proposals through, especially given that they have only had 12 days to look at the documents."

Firefighters rushed to a skip fire in Plover Wharf, Lenton.

They were called at 8.50pm on Monday December 22.

A crew from Highfields Fire Station attended the fire, and used one hose reel and a ceiling hook to extinguish the flames.

Witnesses are being asked to come forward to help find a man who mugged a 19-year-old using scissors.

The robber demanded the victim's wallet, which he handed over at around 8pm on December 17.

A struggle then broke out between the pair after the robber tried to grab a gold chain from the 19-year-old's neck.

The victim sustained cuts to his hands.

Investigating officers believe the man, who ran off in the direction of Ramsden Crescent, may also have been injured during the struggle.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously.

With December 25th looming large, news editor Jade Beecroft explains why she will be battening down the hatches this festive season

Bah-humbug. Yes that's right, BAH-HUMBUG!

T'might be the season to be jolly – but I'm battening down the hatches and for the next few days I shall be feeling the exact opposite of Christmas cheer.

I am one of the Scrooges of this world. Festive frivolity fills me with a dark black fury that begins to cloud over around the beginning of December and sees me right through until New Year's Eve.

Don't get me wrong, I will grudging obliterate the odd mince pie (or six). I have already grumpily baked a feta and cranberry quiche for one Christmas gathering and performed my secret Santa duties for another.

But I absolutely refuse to be cheerful about it. I haven't sent any cards and I have not put up a tree. So here are some of the reasons why I really can't stand Christmas:

It starts in September! Why why why? I wouldn't mind it so much if it began mid-December and ended on Boxing Day. But instead we are made to suffer months of preamble that largely revolves around getting us to spend as much money as possible. This year the Christmas events had begun before we'd celebrated Bonfire Night. Is it any wonder that by the time December 25 rolls round I'm sick of it?

Everybody goes crazy – the high streets are full of shoppers and the roads are jammed with cars as people dash about like elves on speed, madly trying to fulfill their lists of Christmas commitments.

Normal service is completely suspended. To me it feels like life has to be put on hold while we all 'do' Christmas – everything closes, bin days get jumbled, and nothing seems to function as usual. Social activities of the non-festive variety also have to go on the back-burner while we all blast around trying to fit in various Christmas parties and family engagements.

It's financially crippling. As Christmas becomes ever more commercialised it's no longer enough just to attend the carol services and give simple, thoughtful gifts. You end up panic-buying more than you'd originally budgeted for and spending far too much on meals and drinks – not to mention the fancy dress outfits and Christmas jumpers that now seem de rigueur.

But I think the worst part of Christmas is the expectation that EVERYBODY has to be happy. Those who enjoy Christmas become extremely put out if others don't exhibit the same level of manic cheer.

The fact is that a huge number of people still have to work through Christmas – and for many, especially in the emergency services, this can mean long hours away from their loved ones.

And Christmas can also be an incredibly sad time of year. For some it is a painful reminder of losses or family breakdowns, and others may end up spending it alone, perhaps even without a roof over their heads.

So while I'm sending my best wishes to all those who do love Christmastime, I would also like to show solidarity for the others who will simply be putting their heads down and trying to get through the next few days with the bare minimum of debt, stress, and indigestion. Roll on January 1st!

ON Boxing Day, Nottingham Forest should have been heading to Middlesbrough in confident mood. They should have been lifted by a comfortable win over Leeds.

Instead they have only a point to reflect on as they journey to the Riverside, along with a stinging sense of injustice. And all that is required is consistency.

At Birmingham City a few weeks ago, a line was drawn in the sand. It was established that it was acceptable – if not actively encouraged – for a fourth official to intervene, if he felt a mistake had been made by the referee or his assistants.

The Blues benefited as fourth official Nigel Smith told referee Geoff Eltringham that he should have awarded a penalty for a Britt Assombalonga handball.

On Saturday, having already seen one Matty Fryatt goal chalked off for an incorrect offside decision, when the same thing happened in the second half, the incident was replayed on the big screens. It shouldn't have been – and Forest may yet face some fall out from it.

But more than 20,000 people got to see that the decision was wrong. Including, you assume, the officials. Yet there was no intervention from fourth official Eddie Ilderton.

Admittedly, play had restarted at the City Ground, when it had not a few weeks ago, at St Andrew's.

But there must be a simple solution. Why not let each team have one 'appeal' per game? One opportunity to call time out on the game and let the officials review video evidence, if it is available or, alternatively, just discuss whether they might have made a mistake among themselves?

KEITH Hill's acidic response to a question about referees would have been amusing had it not been such a serious topic of debate.

The Rochdale manager lambasted the standard of officiating in League One this season which has been incredibly disappointing.

Hill's grievances crashed to the surface after Garry Thompson's stoppage-time equaliser – which gave Notts a 2-2 draw – was allowed to stand despite two players being stood in offside position.

Hill (pictured) is likely to receive a call from the Football Association following his cutting assessment, but his comments will be echoed by many managers at this level.

Notts boss Shaun Derry has already had his say especially after the Gary Jones fiasco which saw the midfielder's red card against Yeovil rescinded because of indisputable evidence.

If you speak to managers in private, they will tell you that the battle to improve refereeing standards is a pretty futile one because they feel they have no support from the game's governing body.

If they criticise it's a fine and if they appeal a debatable decision, unless it's corroborated by indisputable video footage, then they fail.

There seems to be a stand-off between managers and the authorities this season following some very poor performances.

Surely the FA have a duty to improve relations before all respect is lost in a sea of anger.

MICK Newell says the Nottinghamshire trio of Stuart Broad, Alex Hales and James Taylor have a fantastic opportunity to light up the World Cup with England.

Seamer Broad and batsmen Hales and Taylor have been named in England's 15 man squad for the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

The Notts director of cricket and national selector says Hales, 25, and Taylor, 24, have been handed chances they might not have expected 12 months ago, while Broad will be expected to deliver as a senior player after recovering from knee surgery.

Newell told the Post: "A year ago Alex and James probably never thought they would be in this position. Now they are going to a World Cup.

"It's a great opportunity for them considering they're both so young. It will be a great experience for them."

Taylor first got his chance in 2011 but only picked up two caps before being named in the squad to travel to Sri Lanka. Although England lost 5-2, the former Leicestershire batsman impressed with scores of 90 and 68.

"James has been there or thereabouts for quite a while now so when he got in the team in Sri Lanka it's inevitable there would have been some nerves there. Those two half centuries will have done him no harm and you would hope he takes confidence from that," said Newell.

Hales was widely anticipated to open the batting at the start of the tour, but he was left out surprisingly and only featured in three matches, top scoring with 27.

"Alex might have expected to be in the team at the start in Sri Lanka having played in the last game in this country, but you've got to find a balanced team and squad," Newell said.

"A bit like James did, it's about taking your chance when you get it. He probably hasn't done that as much he wanted in Sri Lanka but he'll be looking to do that in the World Cup.

"Pace on the ball will help him in Australia and it will be interesting to see how he goes in the Big Bash in the next few weeks."

Broad is fit again after knee surgery and with experience limited in a new-look squad, Newell says he will have to draw on his 108 caps to help lead the team.

"Broad came back from rehab showing no ill effects from his injury. You never know if it's 100 per cent for sure until you bowl competitively, but there is no reason for us to think it's not," he said.

"He's a senior player and the onus is on players like him, Ian Bell and James Anderson to deliver if they play."

While three Notts players made the cut, Harry Gurney and Samit Patel missed out having been named in the initial 30 man squad.

Gurney was involved in Sri Lanka and while he will no doubt be disappointed, Newell says it far from the end of the road for the left arm seamer.

"Harry was under real consideration. He's no reason to be annoyed at himself for not being in the final squad," he said.

"It was a tremendous effort from him to get so close. I certainly don't see this as the end for him internationally. He's got a big part to play in white ball cricket potentially.

"Both he and Samit have a chance to remind everyone what they can do with the Lions squad in South Africa now."

SHAUN Derry admitted Danny Haynes could have remained at Notts County for "three more years" and still struggled to succeed at Meadow Lane.

The Magpies have parted company with their highest earner (pictured), six months before Haynes' contract was due to expire.

The forward made just 16 league starts and scored three goals since joining in the summer of 2013 when he was regarded as a marquee signing, following his exit from Charlton.

But he has struggled to nail down a place in Derry's team and has played just two games so far this term, which left the Notts boss admitting the move had not worked out.

"For various reasons it's just not happened for Danny," he said.

"I think he could have been here another three or four years and it would not have happened for him at Notts County.

"But I do honestly think that Danny could go to another football club and rediscover his scoring habits.

"I spoke to him last week and we had a full and frank discussion and I've got to give Danny credit, he has been honest with me and said it hasn't worked out for him.

"I have to listen to the player and I felt it was the best option for both parties in the end.

"It gives him a head start in looking for a different club and it was always in the back of my mind that Danny would be leaving us at the end of the season.

"So to give him that four or five month head start in looking for a new club, he will be in a better position for it."

Haynes' departure should free up some funds at Meadow Lane given the club will save on national insurance and tax.

But the Notts chief said he would have to speak to the board as to whether he will be able to use that money in the transfer window.

"I will speak to the board about where it sits with us in terms of being able to strengthen the squad," he said.

SO, there is to be no money to look into the possibility of a Kimberley tram.

Tremendous news. Kimberley can now pursue the onward path of modernism with increased gusto.

We already have a modern, super-fast system of highways linking us with local cultural centres. Possibly this could be improved further by building an up-to-date, high capacity, multi-lane motorway along the now defunct tram route?

It would be a little constricted as it passed the Nelson and Railway Inn but possibly we could arrange to leave that on the central reservation, together with most of the older Kimberley conservation area.

Our young people, currently being poor, will be able to get to their universities by bicycle, and pensioners can access hospital appointments using their improved-velocity, battery powered transporters; or at least they should be able to if they are able to survive our modern super-fast moto-gyratory system at Nuthall. Not to mention the current, much loved Inter Centre Freeway into Nottingham.

Kimberley itself, already super-modern, with its system of cafes and exciting avant garde shops will, unencumbered by the tram, be able to advance further: possibly an opera house where the old Queens Head is, or groups of fashionable couturiers along the Main Street with visiting street artists and high value craft outlets. Maybe a bronze ensemble of town fathers could provide a hub of suitable gravitas.

In the meantime, Beeston, saddled with its clapped out tram system, decaying retail outlets and lack of a proper complex of modern urban motorways will doubtless continue its sad and unenviable decline towards being some sort of abandoned Victorian museum.

MR and MRS LEE

Babbington Lane

Kimberley

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THE letter of Ken Burton ('Care homes lack the personal touch', December 16) raises many crucial points about care for the elderly.

Having been in a nursing home for some nine months prior to being in a care home for nearly a year, I have first-hand experience of the issues he raises.

There seems to be consensus in the national debate about the fact that there has been a woefully inadequate response to the need for planning for the care of an increasingly larger number of elderly people.

There has, understandably, been huge government input, both in terms of finance as well as training and assessment, for educating our young, but this has meant that the focus has not been on similar for those at the other end of the social scale.

I gather that, in very recent times (and because of the work of the Care Quality Commission and other agencies), some of these issues have started to be addressed, but there is clearly a long way to go; and it's very urgent.

I would add that, as ever, it's those who work on the front line who need to be in the forefront of the discussions for it is they who deserve the very best working conditions and financial remuneration.

They do hugely demanding work carried out with great care and compassion.

LILIAN THORNLEY

Main Road

Radcliffe-on-Trent

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I SEE the hospitals are suffering once more – too many patients.

If what we are reading is current and some people have to choose food or heat, losing the latter will lead to more 'flu' and similar illnesses, putting hospitals under even more pressure.

Reading that we may have one of the coldest winters on record – as in 1963 – is yet another straw on the camel's back. We have been very lucky having mild winters for so long, but looks as though not this year.

Let us hope the forecasters may be wrong!

JOSE LLOYD

Elms Park

Ruddington

1834: English architect Joseph Hansom patented his "safety cab", better known as the Hansom cab.

1880: Thomas Edison, pictured, incorporated the Edison Electric Light Company of Europe.

1888: Following a quarrel, Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh cut off part of his ear.

1922: The BBC began daily news broadcasts

1941: American forces on Wake Island surrendered to the Japanese

1965: A 70mph speed limit was introduced in Britain

1995: A fire in Dabwali, India, killed 540 people, including 170 children.

1998: Guerrillas in south Lebanon fired dozens of rockets at northern Israel.